VALPARAISO

City to send trucks for leaves on recycling day

Valparaiso's fleet of leaf trucks and vacuums are already busy gathering fall's colorful and crunchy leaves.

"Our goal is to get through the entire city each week," said Bill Oeding, Public Works director. "During the heaviest part of the season, we may need to add some Saturdays to the pickup schedule."

Leaves will be picked up on the same day as recycling. However, some neighborhoods will be picked up Tuesday rather than Thursday, including Shamrock, High Sierra, Joliet Road west of Ind. 130 and West Street west of Marsh Street.

Crews will begin at 7 a.m. and continue until dark, if necessary.

Residents must place leaves at the edge of the street for pickup. Leaves should be the only thing in the pile -- no sticks, bricks, board or other items.

Additional items should be placed off the street, near the curb.

Note that fall is the only time of year when leaves may be left in the street and fall leaves are the only thing that may ever be left at the edge of the street for pickup.

Although it's preferable to place leaf piles unbagged and uncovered, leaves may be placed in biodegradable bags -- no plastic -- or covered with a tarp at the curb to prevent them from blowing.

For more information about leaf pickup or other services of Public Works, visit the city's website at valpo.us.

VALPARAISO

Healthy Home Workshop is slated for Wednesday

Residents can register now for the next Healthy Home Workshop, which will be held 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. Wednesday at the Valparaiso Fifth Third Bank meeting room, 56 Washington St.

During the workshop participants will learn:

-- What is household hazardous waste and how to identify it.

-- How to protect your family from hazardous household chemicals.

-- Easy, affordable and effective alternatives to many hazardous products.

Participants in the Healthy Home Workshop will receive a starter kit of green cleaning supplies and simple easy-to-use instructions.

Pre-registration is needed to receive workshop materials. There is a $10 fee for presentation costs.

For questions or registration contact the Recycling and Waste Reduction District of Porter County, (219) 465-3694 or email dgreenwood.rwrd@yahoo.com.