Christmas in April seeks donations to aid homeowners

Anne Arundel County's Christmas in April Fund is in need of donations. The fund has seen a large increase in the number of applications from seniors requesting assistance with repairs to their homes.

Christmas in April volunteers repair homes and build ramps for low-income, elderly or disabled Anne Arundel homeowners. The work is done in good weather, especially in April, May, June and October.

Church groups, companies and civic groups are encouraged to form funding teams to support the program. A house can be sponsored for $3,000. The cost of a ramp is $2,000.

Information: 410-263-0405 or send e-mail to christmasinapril aacc@yahoo.com.

North Arundel Hospital reports $8 million profit

North Arundel Hospital has reported an $8 million profit for the 2001-2002 fiscal year, about $1 million more than profits from the previous fiscal year.

The hospital saw a 10.6 percent increase in admissions during the year.

The number of patients seeking treatment in North Arundel's emergency room rose to 77,298 patients - a 4.6 percent increase.

"The hospital projects a 3 [percent] to 4 percent increase in patient volumes across the board in each of the next several years," said Chief Financial Officer Al Pietsch.

"With the opening of the cancer center and the continuous expansion of surgical services, the hospital expects stronger profits in the years to come," he said.

Architects group to hold holiday open house Dec. 12

AIA Chesapeake Bay, a chapter of the American Institute of Architects, will hold a Holiday Open House from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Dec. 12, at its chapter house, 1 State Circle, Annapolis.

The evening will include a display of 2002 Design Award Projects, an opportunity to create a holiday decoration from architectural and construction artifacts and a chance to try out computer-aided design and drafting. Refreshments will be served. Reservations are required. Information: 410-268- 3534.