Families can be torn apart when a loved one dies - not only by their loss, but also by arguments over who inherits family treasures, from jewelry, paintings and photographs to dishes, furniture and tools. The sensitive side of disbursing family belongings will be presented at an upcoming workshop series, 'Who gets Grandma's Yellow Pie Plate?' The series, presented by the Cooperative Extension of Indiana County, will be held 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. April 9, 16 and 23, in the first-floor extension office meeting room, 827 Water Street. One woman with local ties said a relative no longer speaks to her because of a dispute over a set of antique silverware. Incidents like that are not uncommon, according to extension office agent Pat Leach, who will lead the award-winning national program developed by the University of Minnesota Cooperative Extension. 'This is really needed. Many families have major tiffs over (dividing estates), sometimes family members end up not talking to one another,' she said. The three-part series will feature hands-on communication exercises, offer creative solutions to sticky situations and address a question that sometimes arises in families: 'What is fair?' Topics covered will also include initiating discussions on sensitive issues, identifying special objects, sharing stories about special items, determining distribution goals and options and setting basic ground rules. At the first session Homer City attorney Michael Supinka will address legal questions that may arise in families as they disburse non-titled property. To register, call the extension office at (724) 465-3880. The registration fee of $15 per person includes a copy of a 95-page workbook, handouts and refreshments. A second family member may register for $5 if a workbook is shared. Seating is limited.

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