KEYSTONE CLIPS Board eats up idea to restore officers' status

Southwest Mercer County Regional Police Commission member Helen Richardson suggested that commission members give their $50-a-month pay back to the commission to help offset the cost of restoring two part-time police officers to full-time status. The reductions came in the 2002 budget. "If you get hungry for your $50, come to my house," Richardson said, suggesting she would feed any commission members who needed the $50 to eat. The commission unanimously approved her plan.
Computer courses: The Sharon Lifelong Learning Council is offering a series of basic computer skill courses at 1333 E. State St. in Sharon from 9:30 a.m. to noon Tuesdays and Thursdays. Classes begin Tuesday and run through March 21. The programs are free but enrollment is limited and interested people should call the council at (724) 981-6869 The courses are sponsored by the Sharon Family Center, Prince of Peace Center, Technical Education Solutions and the Learning Council.
Turning up the volume: Jack Cardwell, the new president of Sharpsville Borough Council, had a little trouble getting heard during a discussion on borough finances at last week's meeting and, at one point, banged his gavel sharply and raised his voice. It worked. Arguing councilmen abruptly quit talking and listened to what he had to say, prompting Councilman Tom Lally to later quip, "There's a new sheriff in town."
The importance of attendance: At least one Lawrence County official found that it isn't a good idea to miss a reorganization meeting. County Controller Mary Ann Reiter was absent at last week's county prison board meeting and quickly became the nominee for board secretary. Other board members quickly agreed to appoint Reiter when they realized she wasn't present. "I never miss a reorganization meeting," quipped Judge Ralph Pratt. "You never know what you might be appointed to if you're absent."
UCONTRIBUTORS: Harold Gwin of The Vindicator Sharon Bureau and Laure Cioffi of the New Castle Bureau.