Cranberry and Adams townships gave themselves a long-awaited Christmas present by settling their more than 14-y

Not only can't Pennsylvania lawmakers efficiently and expeditiously pass important legislation, they're also obviously out of touch with the basic issue of state Capitol cleanliness.An inspection report released Tuesday by the state Department of Agriculture should make many people — some lawmakers included — feel quesy about what they might have been eating when patronizing the Capitol's ground-floor cafeteria.The cafeteria is a popular coffee and lunch spot for Capitol visitors as well as state workers — and probably some lawmakers as well.If they've been feeling squeamish since the release of Tuesday's report, that reaction is understandable.According to the report, rodent droppings in the cafeteria in question were just about everywhere. The Agriculture Department said rodent droppings were excessive and on food-preparation equipment, in cabinets, in utensil bins and elsewhere.A reasonable question is how and why Aramark Corp. of Philadelphia, the food service company that operates the cafeteria, allowed the situation to become so deplorable. Meanwhile, it's reasonable to ponder whether Aramark should be retained as cafeteria operator when its current contract with the state expires.The situation can be described as unconscionable and intolerable. When the cafeteria reopens, cleanliness should be monitored much more closely and in more frequent time intervals.Judging from the Bonusgate scandal and other questionable goings-on in the state capital, many taxpayers are wishing that lawmakers would clean up their act. Now they can add to that the hope that lawmakers will put cleanliness of the state facilities with which they are entrusted higher-up on their priority list.

All who have jumped aboard Chicora American Legion Post 642's effort to restore that community's veterans honor roll are providing a good example to other communities where similar projects are needed.The Chicora Legion's proposed project has been evolving since one of its members, Dick Callihan, following this year's Memorial Day parade, noted to others the fact that the memorial looked deteriorated and should be renovated.That was all that was needed for the restoration project's seeds to be planted and, despite the onset of winter, the project is continuing to bloom. A kickoff is being planned for Jan. 16, and a dedication ceremony is being targeted for Memorial Day 2010.Chicora-based companies Mortland Planning and Design and Rickert Cement and Landscaping have stepped forward to offer their services free to the project, and Boy Scout Troop 217, sponsored by Chicora Moose Lodge 962, also will be helping, both with landscaping and repair of a retaining wall.While the actual renovation work won't begin until better weather conditions, fundraising for the project will be ongoing throughout the winter by way of events such as a winter carnival and St. Patrick's Day dinner. Also planned are a horse race in April and, later, a golf outing and street dance.Meanwhile, businesses in the community are helping to raise money through collection jars placed in their establishments. And, the Legion wants to set up a telephone number for donors.In the meantime, donations are being accepted at the Legion post at 110 W. Slippery Rock St. or by calling the Legion at 724-445-7675.The fundraising effort is shaping up as a commitment destined to succeed.The honor roll, built in 1939, was refurbished in 1944 and 1970, but the passage of nearly four decades has taken a toll on the monument — a brick structure with plaques remembering those who have served and died for their country.What's happening in Chicora can serve as a reminder to other communities to check whether their memorials are in need of similar work and commitment.