REGION

REGION
MAACO relocates,celebrates anniversary
NILES -- MAAACO Auto Painting & amp; Bodyworks center, formerly on Robbins Avenue in Niles, is celebrating its 10th anniversary with a new location at 231 N. Main St. in Niles. The new center, operated by Dan Moadus, features a larger showroom and more high-tech options for auto body and paint repairs.
Jobless rates increasein Lawrence, Mercer
The unemployment rates in Mercer and Lawrence counties jumped sharply in January. The state Department of Labor & amp; Industry reported that the jobless rate in Lawrence rose from 5.9 percent in December to 8.4 percent in January; in Mercer, it rose from 4.6 percent to 6.2 percent. Post-holiday layoffs and an ongoing economic slowdown were blamed. The number working in Lawrence County dropped from 37,300 to 36,600, and in Mercer County the number dropped from 55,200 to 53,300.
OHIO
Northrup Grummanto challenge state laws
COLUMBUS -- Defense contractor Northrop Grumman Corp. will challenge Ohio anti-takeover laws as it presses a $5.9 billion hostile bid for Cleveland-based TRW Corp. Ohio generally is considered to have tough laws governing how companies can mount such bids.
Los Angeles-based Northrop Grumman is questioning three laws that tie the hands of companies making takeover bids and a spokesman said it may seek an injunction in federal court.
From Vindicator staff/wire reports