*****PRESS RELEASE*****

     Lawrence County Treasurer, Richard L. Rapone, is launching a new initiative to help abused animals. The Lawrence County Animal Relief Fund…..LC-ARF! is in the process of being incorporated.  Representatives from the Lawrence County Humane Society, Promises for Pets and concerned citizens against animal abuse are assisting with this effort.

     The Lawrence County Commissioners have been advised by their Deputy Solicitor that, according to the Fifth Class County Code, the County cannot directly hire an officer to enforce the Cruelty to Animals statute enacted at 18 Pa.C.S.A. §5511.  Therefore, the Commissioners have allocated $1500.00 to help defray the filing fees associated with organizing as a non-profit group.

     LC-ARF! will be organized exclusively for one or more of the purposes as specified in Section 501 (c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code.  The specific objectives and purposes of the LC-ARF! shall be to educate individuals about the reality of animal abuse and to collect, deposit and distribute monies to non-profit animal agencies in Lawrence County for the investigation, rescue and care of abused, injured and sick animals.

     The proposed LC-ARF! is currently in the process of building a Board of Directors and committees.  The board and committee are in need of licensed veterinarians, law enforcement officials, animal emergency responders, and concerned citizens who are able to devote the time and energy for this much needed cause.  For further information, please contact Lawrence County Treasurer, Richard L Rapone at 724.656.2484.

Sincerely,

Richard L. Rapone

Lawrence County Treasurer