Sponsors Sought to Assist Families Participating in Annual Christmas Caring Program
LEONARDTOWN—The St. Mary's County Department of Aging & Human Services, Division of Human Services, in partnership with the Department of Social Services, Mike's Bikes and Toys for Tots, presents the 2014 Christmas Caring Program. The program consists of individuals, businesses, and organizations donating gifts of toys, clothing and/or food to families in need.
Due to current economic conditions, the need is substantial and sponsors are desperately needed. Over 900 families have requested assistance through the Christmas Caring Program. That number is expected to rise as the Division of Human Services continues to receive requests through the month of November.
Organizations are asked to consider sponsoring a family this Christmas season. If you are interested, please contact the Division of Human Services at 301-475-4200, extension 1680 as soon as possible so families can receive assistance by December 12. A gift request form, completed by families in need of assistance, will be forwarded to you. The form provides information about each child's age, clothing size, gift preferences, etc. Sponsors are asked to deliver the gifts or contact the families to arrange pick-ups. If you are unable to sponsor a family please consider donating a gift to Toys for Tots. Donations can be placed in a drop-off station at your local Wal-Mart, K-Mart, The Rex, or Dress Barn.
Keep in mind for some of these families the gift form they complete is merely a "wish list." Parents often request items their children have asked for, but they simply cannot afford to purchase. However, both parents and children are most appreciative of whatever they receive. Sponsors should not feel compelled to purchase everything on the list unless they are able to do so.
Calvert County Seeks Applicants Interested in Serving on Advisory Boards and Commissions
PRINCE FREDERICK—The Board of County Commissioners encourages citizens to provide input on the policies that shape local government.
There are several vacancies to fill on the many boards, commissions and committees that offer Calvert County citizens an avenue to actively participate in the county commissioners’ decision-making. These boards deal with health and welfare, social programs, environmental issues, agricultural preservations, economic development, tourism, architectural review, women's issues, elderly issues and others.
Calvert County residents who are registered voters may apply. Applications may be obtained from the Commissioner’s Office (175 Main St., Room A203), any Calvert County public library or online at http://www.co.cal.md.us/GetInvolved.
Charles County Commissioners’ December Town Hall Meeting Schedule
LA PLATA—The Charles County Commissioners invite the public to attend December town hall meetings as scheduled below. The purpose of Commissioner town hall meetings is to take questions from those in attendance and to discuss items of importance to the citizens and the community.
-- Ken Robinson (District 1)
“Coffee with the Commissioner” (Meeting will be videotaped for online viewing)
Saturday, Dec. 6, 11 a.m.
Starbucks (6675 Crain Highway, La Plata)
-- Amanda Stewart (Commissioner-Elect, District 3)
Monday, Dec. 22, 6:30 p.m.
Waldorf West Library, Room A (10405 O'Donnell Place, Waldorf)
-- Bobby Rucci (District 4)
Commissioner Bobby Rucci will meet with any citizen at any available time or through email, text messaging, or telephone to discuss issues of concern. He may be reached at RucciB@CharlesCountyMD.gov or by calling 301-645-0550.
Future town hall meeting dates are available at http://www.CharlesCountyMD.gov.
For more information, contact the Public Information Office at 301-885-2779 or PressRoom [at] CharlesCountyMD.gov. Citizens with special needs may contact the Maryland Relay Service at 711, or Relay Service TDD: 866-269-9006.
Prepare for Winter Weather by Knowing the Different Types of Storms
LEONARDTOWN—Winter storms can range from a moderate snowfall over a few hours to a blizzard with blinding, wind-driven snow that lasts for several days. Many winter storms are accompanied by dangerously low temperatures and sometimes by strong winds, icing, sleet and freezing rain.
One of the primary concerns is the winter weather's ability to knock out heat, power and communications services to your home or office, sometimes for days at a time. Heavy snowfall and extreme cold can immobilize an entire region.
The National Weather Service refers to winter storms as the "Deceptive Killers" because most deaths are indirectly related to the storm. Instead, people die in traffic accidents on icy roads and of hypothermia from prolonged exposure to cold. It is important to be prepared for winter weather before it strikes.
Know the Difference:
-- Winter Storm Outlook - Winter storm conditions are possible in the next 2 to 5 days.
-- Winter Weather Advisory - Winter weather conditions are expected to cause significant inconveniences and may be hazardous.
-- Winter Storm Watch - Winter storm conditions are possible within the next 36 to 48 hours. People in a watch area should review their winter storm plans and stay informed about weather conditions.
-- Winter Storm Warning - Life threatening, severe winter conditions have begun or will begin within 24 hours. People in a warning are should take precautions immediately.
For more information please visit http://prepare.stmarysmd.com.