The American Red Cross reports that blood inventory levels have fallen so low it is unable to meet the demand of local hospitals.

Donors with types O positive, O negative, A positive and A negative are asked to donate as soon as possible.

Most people age 17 or older who weigh at least 110 pounds are eligible to give blood every 56 days.

To donate, call (800) 448-3543 to learn the location and hours of operation for the center closest to you. Or visit www.givelife.org.

CANOE-A-THON TO BENEFIT WILDLIFE PROJECTS

The N.C. Wildlife Federation's Capital Chapter is hosting a Canoe-a-thon at noon Aug. 9. Canoes will launch from the Falls Lake Dam Area and paddle down the Neuse River.

Advance registration was required by last week, but the chapter will still accept additional sponsorships.

This is not a race; however, participants are encouraged to get sponsors. A minimum donation of $50 per paddler is recommended. Team donations will be tracked online to see who can raise the most money. Prizes will be awarded at the end.

If you would like to mail donations before the event, send them to 314 Covenant Creek Drive, Raleigh NC 27606.

The event benefits conservation and wildlife projects.

T-shirts, snacks, drinks and shuttle service will be provided. A limited number of canoes and kayaks are available; first come, first served.

Organizers will use the registration list to inform participants of event logistics, such as where to meet the shuttle.

Contact NCWF's Capital Chapter at info@ncwfcapital.com for more information, or visit www.ncwfcapital.com.

MEETING SCHEDULED ON PARK

A public meeting is scheduled for 7 p.m. Thursday at Lake Lynn Community Center about the plans for the Strickland Road neighborhood park. Many nearby residents have questioned plans to build a ball field, dog park and small park building on the property.

The Parks, Recreation and Greenway Advisory Board will talk about plans for the park Sept. 18, not Aug. 21, as the city's Web site indicated last week.

What's going on in your neighborhood? Are you organizing a fundraiser? A plant sale or garden tour? Is there an upcoming class reunion? Contact us at 836-2828 or nrnews@newsobserver.com, and we'll do our best to get the word out to our 75,000 readers. Please send submissions at least a week in advance of your event.