Elberon Branch Library, 168 Lincoln Ave., Elberon section of Long Branch, will host “Meet the Doctors” July 26 from 7-9 p.m.

Moderator of the panel discussion will be Herbert E. Poch, M.D., of Drexel University, Philadelphia. The discussion will feature Angelo J. Lopano, M.D., orthopedic surgeon; Jeffrey L. Osofsky, M.D., cardiologist; and Jessica Israel, M.D., palliative care specialist.

The discussion is free and open tot he public. For more information, call the library at (732) 870-1776 or visit www.lmxac.org/longbranch.

Red Cross makes appeal for blood donations

The Jersey Coast Chapter of the American Red Cross, Tinton Falls, has announced at present there is a critical blood shortage, and the agency is issuing an urgent national appeal for blood donations. Many areas of the country are already on local emergency appeals.

Donations decline in the summer due to vacations, holidays, and a generally busy lifestyle during the warm months. Shortages are also caused by the absence of high school blood drives and fewer students at college blood drives. The Red Cross is seeking donations from individuals with type o, type a-negative and type b-negative to make a blood donation. Donors should be age 17 or older, weigh 110 pounds or more, and be in good health.

To schedule an appointment to donate, call 1-800-448-3543.

MHA mental health directory now available

The Mental Health Association (MHA) of Monmouth County, Eatontown, has announced that the new edition of its “Directory of Mental Health Professionals and Agencies” is now available free to the public.

The directory lists Monmouth County psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists and agencies that offer help with anxiety, substance abuse, depression, stress management, divorce and work-related issues. It is helpful for individuals with questions concerning therapy or looking for a qualified therapist.

For a copy of the directory, call the MHA at (732) 542-6422. For multiple copies, stop at the office at 59 Broad St.

Seminars on cults slated at college July 21, 28

The student health center at Brookdale Community College will present seminars on cults, “Polytheistic Versus Monotheistic” July 21, and “Identification & Selection of a Religious Institution for Personal Growth & Worship” July 28 from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.

The programs will be at the Warner Student Life Center. The Rev. Jesse Evans Sr., of Mount Olive Baptist Church, Belmar, will lead the seminars, and a complimentary lunch will be served.

The college is at Newman Springs Road, Lincroft section of Middletown. Preregistration is required and may be made by calling (732) 224-2106.

‘Battle of the Bands’ slated for Saturday

The third annual “Keyport Battle of the Bands” will take place July 23 from 6-10 p.m. at the Keyport Mini Park, West Front Street.

Presented by Keyport Business Alliance, the competition will feature a top prize of approximately $500. Bands will be judged on musicianship, showmanship, and audience response and interaction.

Bands scheduled to compete include Avatar consisting of three individuals from Long Branch and Rumson, Finding Westerly from North Jersey, Stigmatic consisting of shore area residents, and Atlas from Newport News, Va.

Admission is free. For more information, call Allen Consulting at (732) 946-2711.

‘Meet the Doctors’ at Elberon Library July 26

Elberon Branch Library, 168 Lincoln Ave., Elberon section of Long Branch, will host “Meet the Doctors” July 26 from 7-9 p.m.

Moderator of the panel discussion will be Herbert E. Poch, M.D., of Drexel University, Philadelphia. The discussion will feature Angelo J. Lopano, M.D., orthopedic surgeon; Jeffrey L. Osofsky, M.D., cardiologist; and Jessica Israel, M.D., palliative care specialist.

The discussion is free and open tot he public. For more information, call the library at (732) 870-1776 or visit www.lmxac.org/longbranch.