Digest Digest (February 10, 2006)

Don't toss the TV

Starting this week, it is no longer legal to toss an array of electronic equipment in the trash. Deemed "hazardous waste," a new state law requires that such things as obsolete televisions, computers, printers, microwaves and more must be disposed of at one of six drop-off centers in the East Bay. The point is to keep toxic waste out of landfills, where the potential exists for it to leak into water and air.

The illegal waste includes batteries, old thermostats and thermometers, and fluorescent bulbs. Some private companies will dispose of such trash for a fee. There is a household hazardous waste collection center in Livermore at 5584 La Ribera St. Periodically, the one or two day "drop off" events are offered at centralized locations. For days and hours the Livermore center is open and to learn which wastes it will accept, visit www.stopwaste.org. For other locations, visit www.dtsc.ca.gov and link to "universal waste." @d12sub:Healthy hearts

Heart disease is the number one cause of death in both men and women. Free heart screening will be offered from 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Feb. 25 at San Ramon Regional Medical Center in the South Conference Room in the South Building, 777 Norris Canyon Rd. Preventive screenings will include (total) cholesterol, blood pressure, body mass index and computerized body fat analysis. Doctors will be on hand to discuss results of your screening. Fasting is recommended, but not required, and screenings will be given on a first-come, first-served basis. For more information, call (800) 284-2878. Abbie 4-H Field Day

Have a kid who loves animals but a horse or cow is just a bit too big for your backyard? Abbie 4-H invites anyone interested to attend its 4-H Field Day from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. March 4, 3131 Pacific Ave., in Livermore. 4-H projects on display will include poultry, small pets, rabbits, birds, reptiles and more. The event takes place in the Barn and will include a snack bar. The day will include activities, games and prizes. For more information, call 426-1769.

E-mail a friend a link to this story.