Hospitalizations are up — not only because of COVID-19 — and as a result the supply of blood is running low, especially for types B-negative, O-positive and O-negative.

The first type is most commonly found in populations of Asian descent, the second is the most common type overall and the third is the “universal” type, which can be used for any transfusion.

All types are needed, but those will get priority. Pandemic-safe protocols are observed.

Register at bbh.org, or on Oahu, call 848-4770.

Aloha and farewell to Neal Conan

Broadcaster Neal Conan worked for the last nine years of his life, but as a macadamia nut farmer in Hawi. To his fans from National Public Radio, though, he is still remembered for “Talk of the Nation,” his long-running public-affairs talk show.

Conan, who died here Tuesday, got a bit more air time in Hawaii, continuing with his “Pacific News Minute” on Hawaii Public Radio. Even from an idyllic Hawaii island refuge, he kept up the conversation with his listeners.