The American Red Cross Mid-Atlantic Blood Services Region recognized Mathews County with that organization’s Community Courage Award. The award presentation took place during a May 20 luncheon at the Omni Hotel in Newport News.

Paul Regal, CEO of the Mid-Atlantic Blood Services Region, made the presentation, with Janice Phillips and Margaret Owens, co-chairs of the Mathews Community Blood Drive, accepting the award.

The Community Courage Award recognizes the community drive that consistently collects the most pints with minimal deferrals and best overall efficiency.

"This year, we would like to recognize a group that has been running blood drives for over 20 years," Regal said. "They have an excellent group of volunteers that makes sure every drive is an exciting community event. Their kitchen is full with every dessert you can imagine at every drive. They hold the blood drive at the Piankatank Ruritan Club but have a different sponsoring group each drive.&...