AUGUSTA — Gov. Paul LePage and others gathered at a local pharmacy Friday to launch a campaign to teach Mainers the proper way to dispose of needles and other sharp medical waste.

It is legal to dispose of needles in household trash, but they must be put in a labeled and puncture-proof container, such as a laundry detergent bottle, before disposal, according to a press release from the governor’s office. They should never be thrown in the trash or toilet because they can injure someone.

DEP Commissioner Pattie Aho, in a prepared statement, said the department gets a lot of calls about how to dispose of needles, but said disposal doesn’t have to be difficult.

The department plans to distribute 40,000 brochures through Rite-Aid pharmacies and Hannaford stores explaining the process and 3,000 safe-clip devices, which hold up to 1,500 needle tips, will be distributed by the department at Rite-Aid pharmacies and at public events, such as the Common Ground Fair.

For more information, go to www.maine.gov/dep/sharps.

Gardiner nomination papers due Monday

GARDINER — Nomination papers for the Nov. 6 election are available at the clerk’s office at City Hall for the following positions: mayor, 50 signatures needed; three at-large seats on the City Council, 25 signatures needed; School Administrative District 11 Board Members, 25 signatures needed.

Papers are due by close of business Monday at the City Hall, 6 Church St.

Litchfield road closed starting Monday

LITCHFIELD — A portion of Dead River Road will be closed from Monday through Thursday for repairs.

Town Manager Michael Byron said the Public Works Department will rebuild a 600-foot section damaged by vehicle travel last spring.

The road was posted with weight limits at the time, Byron noted.

Alfond guest speaker for Lincoln Democrats

DAMARISCOTTA — State Sen. Justin Alfond of Portland, the assistant minority leader, will be the guest speaker at the monthly Lincoln County Democrats meeting Wednesday, Sept. 19, at the party campaign headquarters in Damariscotta.

All Democrats and supporters are invited to attend, including first-time voters, those new to the area and those interested in volunteering for a campaign or to work at the headquarters.

Alfond has served on the Education and Cultural Affairs joint committee for two terms and has been a champion for stronger educational opportunities for Maine students and for advancing the teaching profession, including strengthening support for teachers choosing to attain National Board certification, according to a press release from the Lincoln County Democrats.

The meeting starts at 7 p.m., at the Democratic Party headquarters, 133 Main St. It will be preceded by a 6:30 p.m. social gathering. For more information, go to www.lincolncountydemocrats.org.