Charles Co. Gov. News Briefs

Commissioners Recognize Christmas in April for 25 Years of Service

On Tuesday, April 19, the Charles County Commissioner recognized the Christmas in April Charles County for 25 years of service and community enhancement. The Christmas in April Charles County volunteers have helped 573 families in the county since its inception in 1990. For more information about Christmas in April Charles County, visit www.ChristmasInAprilCharlesCounty.com.

Household Hazardous Waste Collection Scheduled May 7

The Charles County Department of Public Works would like to remind citizens that the next household hazardous waste collection will be held on Saturday, May 7. The household hazardous waste collection site is located in the parking lot of the Department of Public Works building, located at 10430 Audie Lane, off of Radio Station Road in La Plata. Collection hours are 9 a.m.–3 p.m.

Items accepted free of charge include: pesticides, herbicides, fertilizer, gasoline, oil-based paint, cleaning supplies, pool chemicals, fluorescent lights, mercury thermometers, and other poisons found in the home. Please remember to mark any container that does not have a readable, original label.

Unacceptable materials include bio-medical waste (sharps, needles, anything with bodily fluids), latex paint, prescription drugs, and ammunition. Used motor oil, anti-freeze, propane tanks, and batteries are accepted on a regular basis at various collection sites. Latex paint is not considered hazardous waste and can be placed in your household trash as long as it is solidified. This can be accomplished by adding kitty litter, shredded paper, paint hardener, or sawdust to aid in drying it out.

Household hazardous waste collection will occur on the first Saturday of each month through December. Upcoming 2016 collection dates are: May 7, June 4, July 2, Aug. 6, Sept. 3, Oct. 1, Nov. 5, and Dec. 3.

For more information, call the Charles County Department of Public Works, Environmental Resources Division at 301-932-3599 or 301-870-2778, or the landfill and recycling information line at 301-932-5656. Citizens with special needs may contact the Maryland Relay Service at 711, or Relay Service TDD: 800-735-2258.

Department of Health Announces Zika Awareness Week in Charles County

The Charles County Department of Health in collaboration with Charles County Government, and the Maryland State Department of Health and Mental Hygiene announce the week of April 25-30 as Zika Awareness Week. During this time look for Zika Virus information throughout the community.

Zika Virus disease is primarily transmitted through the bite of infected Aedes mosquitoes. While none of these local mosquitoes are presently infected, residents travelling to the affected areas may become infected with the virus. The concern is that Zika virus can cause severe harm to unborn babies when a woman is infected during pregnancy. According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), women who become infected while pregnant may have babies with unusual small heads which is usually a sign of severe brain damage.

Charles County Health Officer Dianna E. Abney, M.D., says, "The Department of Health is working closely with Charles County Government to provide education and guidance to residents regarding the Zika Virus. Residents are urged to heed the recommendations for eliminating mosquito breeding grounds around their homes and to take precautions when outdoors. These helpful tips are listed on our website and the CDC website."

For more information visit the Department of Health website at www.CharlesCountyHealth.org or call 301-609-6900.

Elite Gymnastics to Hold Evaluation Day and Open House on May 21

Learn more about the wonderful programs offered at Elite Gymnastics on Saturday, May 21 from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. Meet and greet our coaches and instructors, take a tour of the facility, and receive individual feedback on the best placement for your child at this free event.

Elite Gymnastics offers recreational gymnastic classes, pre-competitive gymnastics classes, and a United States Association of Gymnastics (USAG) competitive team. The recreational program allows students to progress in a non-competitive environment. Days and times vary for classes and practices.

Elite Gymnastics and Recreation Center is located at 2745 Old Washington Road, Waldorf. For details, please call 301-705-6557 or 301-870-7938. Visit us online at www.CharlesCountyParks.com. Pre-registration is required.

For more information on this event or others offered by the Department of Community Services, visit www.CharlesCountyParks.com or call the Department of Community Services at 301-934-9305. Citizens with special needs may contact the Maryland Relay Service at 711, or Relay Service TDD: 800-735-2258.

Commissioners Recognize Charles County as "Storm Ready"

On Tuesday, April 12, the Charles County Commissioner recognized Emergency Services' staff for their efforts towards the county receiving the National Weather Service's "Storm Ready." The recognition is awarded to jurisdictions that provide residents with exceptional preparedness for all weather events.