FINDING THE TIME: There’s no shortage of...

FINDING THE TIME: There’s no shortage of opportunities for parents looking to volunteer at their children’s schools (B4). . . . A new state law that went into effect Jan. 1, giving harried parents the right to take time off for such activities, should make things easier. “Most parents generally want to be involved in their children’s education,” said Pat Sando, president of the 12th District PTA, which includes all of Ventura County. “If there’s 35 kids in a class and a few parents offer to help, the ratio goes way down and you can get to do some one-on-one counseling. That makes a difference.”

A YEAR OLDER: Moorpark’s school district celebrates its 100th anniversary this year, and at least one alumna of the system--Florence Dawson of the Class of 1938--is trying to put together a big celebration (B5). . . . The city of Ventura is also approaching a big birthday this week: The city will celebrate the 129th year of its incorporation Friday.

CHIEF THATCHER? The job calls for toughness, diplomacy and a high profile--so who better than former British Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher for Simi Valley police chief? . . . KNJO deejay Dick Whittington rang up London to invite the Iron Lady to apply. After all, she’s been to the Reagan Presidential Library a couple of times. Thatcher’s office faxed a response saying she “remembers the Simi Valley with great fondness,” but declined. . . . “It’s too bad--she would have made a heck of a police chief,” Mayor Greg Stratton said. The station is still waiting to hear back from Russia’s Mikhail Gorbachev and Libya’s Moammar Kadafi.

IN CONCERT: Sister Mhariam, a Carmelite nun and former violinist with the Long Beach Symphony, will make a rare concert appearance at Fillmore’s St. Francis of Assisi Church. . . . The concert is free, but voluntary donations will be used to help her order build a new monastery. . . . The concert is set for 3 p.m. Sunday at 1048 W. Ventura St.