MidHudsonNews [dot] com is reporting the American Red Cross has declared an emergency blood shortage in New York, largely due to the significant drop in donations since the July 4 holiday. Red Cross spokeswoman Patty Corvaia said July 9, the agency is comfortable with at least a five-day supply of blood, but the level has fallen below that. Last year this time, Corvala said, there was a 200 unit shortfall, while this year there is a 3,000 unit deficit. In particular, the Red Cross is asking for donations of Type O blood. Type O is the universal blood type and the most in demand. Bill Williams is reporting for WCTW-FM in Greene and Columbia counties, blood drives are scheduled this week in Catskill, Greenville, Hillsdale and Valatie. A list of locations, dates and times can be found at 985thecat [dot] iheart [dot] com.