Sunday, June 3, 2001
The United Way of Mercer County is looking for volunteers to aid its member agencies. Daniel Dilley of the United Way's Volunteer Service Division said there is a need for help in convalescent homes, office help in various organizations and even a need for court-appointed special advocates to speak on behalf of neglected, abused or abandoned children. Training programs are available for the latter program, Dilley said. Interested persons should call the United Way at (724) 981-1884.
Senior driving class: Hermitage Health Place, Seniors for Safe Driving and George Crivelli Chevrolet are joining forces to offer a Mature Operators Driver Improvement Program for Pennsylvania drivers age 55 and older. Those who complete the program can get a discount of up to 5 percent on their automobile insurance. The seven and a half-hour class is divided into two sessions and features audio and visual aides with special night vision testing. There is no written or behind the wheel testing. Space is limited and registration can be made by calling (800) 559-4880. Classes are being offered in two locations: Crivelli Chevrolet at 3223 Wilmington Road, New Castle, from 5:30 to 9 p.m. July 9 and 12 and Hermitage Health Place, 2360 Highland Road, Hermitage, from 5:30 to 9 p.m. July 13 and 20.
Symphony performance: New Castle Mayor Timothy Fulkerson says his goal of selling out the first performance of the Pittsburgh Symphony at the Scottish Rite Cathedral is within reach. Last week, there were less than 500 tickets still available for the concert featuring composer Marvin Hamlisch. The Scottish Rite Cathedral seats 2,800. Fulkerson said the city is doing its part to help the symphony and Scottish Rite Cathedral. Extra police patrols will be out on June 23 and shuttle buses will be taking people from the city's Mercer Street parking garage and Washington Center to the Scottish Rite Cathedral. Parking will be free in both locations.
Ag office grants: Agriculture is getting a boost in Lawrence County. The county cooperative extension office is getting two state grants to pay for youth programs. It will receive $2,500 to promote agricultural awareness among urban youth. The Agriculture to the City program will use "hands on" experience to educate urban children about rural life. A $1,200 grant will support the Lawrence County 4-H Rural Teen Leadership Initiative, a series of programs to foster teen leadership within a rural community. The money will benefit about 160 teens and adults.