This could be the hottest ticket in town for adult education -- the Loudoun Sheriff's office sent out a notice Thursday at 3 p.m. asking for residents to register for the Citizen Police Academy, and by noon the following day the class was full.

The group of 24 will begin sessions March 14, meeting two hours a week for 11 weeks. The point is for residents to learn about how the sheriff's office works and includes seminars given by various department deputies plus one day of firearm instruction.

Students have an option to go on a ride-along with a deputy after completing the course. And for those interested in continuing with some hands-on police work, joining the auxillary means assisting with traffic at parades, fairs and other events, plus helping with the MADD (mothers against drunk driving) traffic stops to prevent drunk driving.

Other options if you missed this: Pencil in some time on your calendar for the fall session or check with your HOA about joining neighborhood watch. The police are very involved with those volunteers.