The Ford Center for the Performing Arts, where Ragtime plays, is where the blood line forms Friday, Aug. 28, 8:30 AM to 1:45 PM -- in a blood-donor campaign sponsored by New York Blood Center in association with The Actors' Fund of America.

Not only is the theatre volunteering its space for the event, the show's Tony- nominated star Brian Stokes Mitchell has agreed to serve as Celebrity Chairman for the occasion.

"Blood donations are critically needed in the summer months," says Linda Levi, director of communications for New York Blood Center, and she has three reasons why: "Most donors take vacations then and, thus, are not available. High schools and colleges, which are another primary sources for us, are of course closed for the summer. Plus, outside blood sources are not available. We import blood from Europe, and this process is shut down during the summer months. These conditions can create a severe blood shortage at this time of year. Volunteer donor campaigns help us to close the gap."

To qualify to be a blood donor, a person must be in good health, from 17 to 75 years old and at least 110 lbs. Photo or signature I.D. and Social Security number are also required.

If you meet these qualifications and want to participate in this blood drive, call the New York Blood Center at 1-800-933-2566 or 468-2060 and make an appointment for Aug. 28. Volunteers are asked to report to the stage door entrance of the Ford Center at 214 W. 43 St.