Blood drives scheduled

New Jersey Blood Services will conduct blood drives on the following dates in a variety of locations: Thursday, Aug. 27, 9 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., at Newton Memorial Hospital, 175 High St., Newton Sunday, Aug. 30, 9 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., at Christ Church, 62 Main St., Newton Rh-negative blood is particularly needed immediately. People with Rh-negative blood, including A-, B- and O-, comprise just 15 percent of the population, yet their blood can be safely transfused to 85 percent of the population. Most notably, people with O-negative blood are known as “universal donors.” Call 1-800-933-2566.