Bloody Tuesday

The Hudson Police Department’s 41st semi-annual blood drive, held Tuesday at the Community Center, topped its goal by 10 percent, the department said.

By the time the seven-hour drive ended, the Red Cross had collected 299 pints, 27 more than the goal of 272.

Typically held in the spring and fall, the police department-sponsored drives are among the most advertised and popular in the area. The army of volunteers includes police officers, firefighters, Explorer Post members and Girl Scouts, while food donations come from a number of restaurants in Hudson and Nashua.

There are always raffles and door prizes, as well. This year’s prizes ranged from food gift certificates to hockey and baseball tickets.

The 2009 fall drive is scheduled for Tuesday, Sept. 22, from noon-7 p.m. at the Community Center.

Around the Towns was compiled by staff writers Dean Shalhoup and Karen Lovett.