HIV/AIDS awareness
Among all racial and ethnic groups, African Americans are most at risk from HIV/AIDS in the United States. In Washington state, black people accounted for approximately 19 percent of all new HIV infections in 2011.
Thursday is National Black HIV/AIDS Awareness Day, designed to encourage black people to get educated, get tested, get involved and get treated.
Any member of the black community, ages 14 and older, can qualify for free, rapid HIV testing. The test involves a simple pin-prick to the finger, and takes 30 minutes for results.
No appointment is necessary, just stop by between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. at the Snohomish Health District, Suite 106, 3020 Rucker Ave., Everett. Black women can get free HIV testing and other services at the Snohomish Health District-sponsored Health &Beauty Fair for Women of Color on March 9 at Edmonds Community College. Learn more about the event at www.snohd.org/events.
Free testing also os offered by appointment every weekday for people at higher risk for HIV transmission. Testing services are available in Everett and Lynnwood, with a special evening clinic each Tuesday.
For more information or to make an appointment, call 425-339-5298.
Japanese Gulch group benefit: The Mukilteo Mardi Gras dinner and auction to benefit the Japanese Gulch Group is planned for 5 p.m. Saturday at Rosehill Community Center, 304 Lincoln Ave., Mukilteo. TThe event features a New Orleans-style dinner catered by Shawn O’Donnell’s Restaurant, silent and live auctions, and a dessert dash.
The cost is $65 per person with proceeds going towards the preservation and maintenance of Japanese Gulch.
Preview items and make reservations at japanesegulchgroup.maestroweb.com or contact Sheila Countryman-Bean at 425-760-5964
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