Hazmat building process along Route 51 among topics discussed at most recent Commissioners’ work session

(File Photo of the Beaver County Courthouse)

Noah Haswell, Beaver County Radio News

(Beaver, PA) Several topics were discussed at the Beaver County Commissioners’ work session at 10 a.m. this morning at the Beaver County Courthouse in Beaver. One of them was when Beaver County Solicitor Garen Fedeles mentioned in the Solicitors’ report of the session about the process for a new hazmat building located along Route 51 near Brady’s Run Park. Fedeles noted that the Commissioners are looking at putting in a new hazmat building right beside the current one in that location and its purpose is a facility “where we can store more of our hazmat equipment.” The design is still being looked at for the building in the near future and Fedeles is hoping that the facility will be built by sometime later this year. Fedeles also mentioned a “very important” resolution tomorrow which is a program for tax assessment sales to be done online rather than in-person. This is a program that lasts one year and it will be attempted for 2026. In other business, the Commissioners got to see the new fire station in Monaca on Saturday and Commissioners Jack Manning and Tony Amadio praised the work of the firefighters there. During the Department Head Report of the session, Beaver County Recreation and Tourism Director Tony Caltury provided an update on the America250 PA kickoff event that will take place at the Beaver County Courthouse public meeting room at 4:15 p.m. this Sunday, January 25th. Caltury stated that visitors have to enter through the front entrance of the courthouse, and even though Fedeles noted that there is a high possibility of snow this Sunday, Caltury let the Commissioners and the audience know that updates will be given if the event will be cancelled. Caltury also noted that the website beavercounty250.com was lauched yesterday and is now available online with history posts and blogs as well as place where groups, individuals and municipalities can help put other information on there and uplift events. The Director and Recycling Coordinator of the Beaver County Department of Sustainability and Waste Management, Becca Nabers, also let the Commissioners know in the Department Head Report of the Session that her department has “paused the petitioning process for solicitation of landfill capacity.” In an initial review, Nabers noticed plenty of capacity for landfill but a lack of program support.

Fire reported at the Starbuck’s in downtown Beaver

(Photo Courtesy of Gavin Thunberg)

Noah Haswell, Beaver County Radio News

(Beaver, PA) The Beaver Volunteer Fire Department and their first alarm were called after a commercial structure fire was reported at the Starbucks on 3rd Street in downtown Beaver around 4:30 a.m. yesterday morning. A caller reported that there was smoke in the building and a fire chief reported an odor and a haze there. After firefighters worked for an hour, no fire was found and companies returned to service.

Three people hospitalized after a vehicle crashes into a Scott Township Denny’s

(Credit for Photo: Photo Courtesy of Scott Township Police (Allegheny County, PA))

Noah Haswell, Beaver County Radio News

(Scott Township, PA) Multiple people were hurt after a vehicle crashed into a Denny’s restaurant in Scott Township which happened just after 9 a.m. this morning along Greentree Road. According to officials, a man was behind the wheel of a blue SUV when it launched into the structure, adding that he mistakenly hit the gas pedal instead of the brake, resulting in the incident. The fire chief on scene expressed that the man was ninety-one years old. This Denny’s restaurant is currently closed and restaurant officials confirm that it is expected to be closed through the rest of this week. There were customers inside, and officials state that three people were taken to St. Clair Hospital for minor injuries and observation. The driver, who did not appear injured, was also questioned by police and left the scene with a family member.

Man shot in the neck in the East Hills neighborhood of Pittsburgh

(File Photo of a Police Siren Lights)

Noah Haswell, Beaver County Radio News

(Pittsburgh, PA) Detectives are leading an active and ongoing investigation after a man was shot in the neck in the East Hills neighborhood of Pittsburgh this morning. Officers were dispatched to the 2300 block of East Hills Drive for a reported shooting at around 8:20 a.m. and when they arrived, they found a man inside a home who had been shot in the neck. They immediately began live-saving measures and Pittsburgh medics responded and administered a whole blood transfusion. The victim was taken to a hospital in critical but stable condition.

PPG recognized on Fortune magazine’s “World’s Most Admired Companies” list for 18th consecutive year

(File Photo of the PPG Industries Logo)

PITTSBURGH–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Jan 21, 2026– PPG (NYSE:PPG) today announced that it was recognized by Fortune magazine on its World’s Most Admired Companies List for the 18th year in a row. The list, considered the ultimate corporate reputation indicator, identifies the largest, best-regarded companies across 51 industries as voted on by industry peers.

PPG ranked No. 2 in the chemicals industry, retaining its spot for the third consecutive year. In the individual categories, PPG earned its highest marks in global competitiveness, people management, and social responsibility.

“Being recognized again by Fortune as one of the World’s Most Admired Companies reflects the dedication of PPG people and the consistency of our performance,” said Bryan Iams, PPG vice president and chief communications officer. “Across markets and regions, our teams are focused on delivering value for customers, operating with integrity and building a company that earns trust through action year after year.”

The 2026 list was derived from a group of 685 companies in 29 countries across 51 industries. This year, 3,000 executives, directors and securities analysts responded to the survey. To determine the industry rankings, companies were scored by industry peers on a 1-10 scale on nine reputation drivers, including innovation, people management, use of corporate assets, social responsibility, quality of management, long-term investment value, financial soundness, quality of products and services, and global competitiveness.

BBQ and Brews Fest returns to New Brighton with food, music and family fun

Staff Reports

NEW BRIGHTON — Is it too early to fantasize about summertime fun?

Maybe circle your calendar now for June 6, when Townsend Park in New Brighton will come alive with smoke, sound and community spirit.

That day marks the return of the BBQ and Brews Fest in the heart of New Brighton. From noon to 6 p.m., the family-friendly festival will feature delicious barbecue, craft brews, live music, local vendors and activities for all ages.

BBQ and Brews benefits Big Brothers Big Sisters of Beaver County, the Rotary Club of New Brighton and the New Brighton Civic Woman’s Club

Attendees can expect a lively atmosphere with:

  • A variety of BBQ food vendors
  • Craft beer, distilled spirits and wine
  • Live music and entertainment (lineup to be announced)
  • Local artisans and vendors
  • Family-friendly activities

The presenting sponsor for the 2026 BBQ and Brews Fest is Brighton Health Mart Pharmacy, whose support helps make the event accessible and impactful for the entire community.

Vendor Opportunities Available

Local businesses, artisans, food and beverage vendors are invited to participate. Vendor registration is just $50 through Jan. 31, increasing to $75 on Feb. 1. Space is limited, and early registration is encouraged.

For details, vendor registration and updates, visit the official Facebook event page at https://facebook.com/events/s/bbq-and-brews-fest-2026/1438357824345280/

Barbecue and beer will be celebrated at a June 6 New Brighton event.

BBQ and Brews Fest returns to New Brighton with food, music and family fun

NEW BRIGHTON — Is it too early to fantasize about summertime fun?

Maybe circle your calendar now for June 6, when Townsend Park in New Brighton will come alive with smoke, sound and community spirit.

That day marks the return of the BBQ and Brews Fest in the heart of New Brighton. From noon to 6 p.m., the family-friendly festival will feature delicious barbecue, craft brews, live music, local vendors and activities for all ages.

BBQ and Brews benefits Big Brothers Big Sisters of Beaver County, the Rotary Club of New Brighton and the New Brighton Civic Woman’s Club

Attendees can expect a lively atmosphere with:

  • A variety of BBQ food vendors
  • Craft beer, distilled spirits and wine
  • Live music and entertainment (lineup to be announced)
  • Local artisans and vendors
  • Family-friendly activities

The presenting sponsor for the 2026 BBQ and Brews Fest is Brighton Health Mart Pharmacy, whose support helps make the event accessible and impactful for the entire community.

Vendor Opportunities Available

Local businesses, artisans, food and beverage vendors are invited to participate. Vendor registration is just $50 through Jan. 31, increasing to $75 on Feb. 1. Space is limited, and early registration is encouraged.

For details, vendor registration and updates, visit the official Facebook event page at https://facebook.com/events/s/bbq-and-brews-fest-2026/1438357824345280/

Barbecue and beer will be celebrated at a June 6 New Brighton event.

Henry Leon Woodfork, Sr. (1936-2026)

Henry Leon Woodfork, Sr., 89, of Cincinnati, Ohio, formerly of Beaver, peacefully passed away on the afternoon of January 18th, 2026.

He was born in Reidsville, North Carolina on July 16th, 1936, the son of the late Patrick and Ida (Martin) Woodfork. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife of 61 years, Commora Board.

Henry is survived by his four children, Henry Jr. (Jennifer), Shawn (Robert), Alexis Roxanne, and Patrick (Nancy); Grandchildren Samantha (Y’hoshua) Myrick, Rachel, Morgan, and Bryce Woodfork; sisters, Etta Marcellus, Patricia (Thomas) Marshall; brother in laws, James R. Board II, Samuel T. Board; special friends Grant and Fanny Farmer.

After graduating from Booker T. Washington School in Reidsville, North Carolina, Henry enlisted in the Air Force and in February of 1959 met the love of his life Commora Board at a dance while stationed at the Greater Pittsburgh Air Base. He was in Indian Guides. He was an exceptional athlete and played 3rd base for the Metro Club. Following his playing career he coached for many years. Henry’s teams had multiple championships, Little League (3), Pony League (2), Colt league team in the playoff for the first time in Beaver history. All of the championships were in consecutive years. He worked for many years at Keystone Bakery, continued on as a Job Core Trainer at CCBC, as well as at Auto Plus until retiring at the age of 83.

Friends will be received on Saturday, January 24th, from 10 A.M. until 12:30 P.M., where a service will be conducted at 1 P.M. at St. John AME Methodist Church, 715 Mulberry Street, Beaver.

Private Interment will take place in Sylvanias Hills Memorial Park, 273 PA-68, Rochester.

Professional Arrangements have been entrusted to the Noll Funeral Home Inc., 333 Third Street, Beaver. Online condolences may be shared at www.nollfuneral.com.

Memorial Contributions may be made in Henry’s name to St. John Ame Methodist Church, 715 Mulberry Street, Beaver, PA 15009.

To order memorial trees or send flowers to the family in memory of Henry Leon Woodfork, please visit the flower store of the Noll Funeral Home, Inc. by clicking here.

Statewide Service Project by PA Cyber Honors the Life of Martin Luther King Jr.

(Credit for Photo: Headline Photo and Photos Below Courtesy of PA Cyber Charter School)

Noah Haswell, Beaver County Radio News

(Midland, PA) Monday was Martin Luther King Jr. Day, which celebrates the life of the late minister and civil rights activist. It is also the 40th year of the holiday, because the first year that it was celebrated was 1986. Students, family members, and staff of PA Cyber will continue to be supporting their communities in Pennsylvania in the coming days through a united statewide effort to honor the legacy of Martin Luther King, Jr. They will donate their time, meals and supplies to various organizations, including Allentown Rescue Mission, Caitlin’s Smiles and Steel City Table. According to a release from PA Cyber, they are hosting the remaining following events throughout the state of Pennsylvania:

  • Wednesday, January 21 in Allentown: PA Cyber families and staff will assemble personal care kits for the Allentown Rescue Mission.
  • Wednesday, January 21 in State College: Participants will make blankets for the Out of the Cold shelter in Centre County.
  • Thursday, January 22 in Greensburg: PA Cyber families and staff will make 250 peanut butter and jelly sandwiches that will be donated to Feeding the Spirit.
  • Thursday, January 22 in Harrisburg: PA Cyber families are invited to assemble craft kits for children in hospitals with serious health challenges. Assembled kits will be donated to Caitlin’s Smiles, which impacts children throughout the Northeast.
  • Thursday, January 22 in Pittsburgh (South Side): After making bagged lunches, participants will deliver them to Steel City Table.
  • Thursday, January 22 in Wilkes-Barre: After making scarves, students will walk to Public Square and a bus station to distribute scarves to homeless people.

Senator Devlin Robinson Announces Nearly $3.5 Million for Water, Sewer, and Transportation Projects in Allegheny County

(File Photo of Water)

Noah Haswell, Beaver County Radio News

(Harrisburg, PA) Senator Devlin Robinson (R-37) announced in Pennsylvania yesterday the approval of nearly $3.5 million in state funding through the Commonwealth Financing Authority (CFA) to support critical water, sewer, stormwater, and transportation infrastructure projects across Allegheny County. Moon Township was among the recipients of funding and they received $770,000 for pedestrian improvements along Beaver Grade Road and University Boulevard, which enhances accessibility and safety for residents and visitors. That funding was received through the Multimodal Transportation Fund. According to a release from the Senate Republican Communications Office, here are some more details about the funding that was announced by Robinson:

Four local projects were awarded funding through the PA Small Water and Sewer Program, which helps local governments address critical needs in their water supply, sanitary sewer, and stormwater systems:

  • Municipal Authority of the Borough of Edgeworth received $72,760 for the installation of a mixer in the HealthSouth water storage tank to improve water quality and system performance.
  • Robinson Township was awarded $200,139 for the Steubenville Pike culvert repair and stabilization project to address aging infrastructure and enhance roadway safety.
  • West View Water Authority received $750,000 for water system upgrades along Warrendale Bayne Road and Northgate Drive.
  • Ohio Township was awarded $333,000 for stormwater improvements at the EMS and fire training facility to enhance drainage and reduce flooding concerns.
  • Borough of Pleasant Hills was awarded $150,000 to enhance stormwater management infrastructure along Saratoga Drive.

Three projects received funding through the Multimodal Transportation Fund, which supports projects that ensure a safe and reliable system of transportation for Pennsylvania residents:

  • Moon Township received $770,000 for pedestrian improvements along University Boulevard and Beaver Grade Road, enhancing accessibility and safety for residents and visitors.
  • Bridgeville Borough was awarded $92,328 to install a pedestrian crossing on Bower Hill Road, boosting safety in a high-traffic area.
  • South Fayette Township received $349,978 to install a traffic signal at the intersection of Presto-Sygan Road and Newbury Highland/Newbury Market Drive to improve traffic operations and safety.
  • Borough of Rosslyn Farms was awarded $230,000 for the installation of sidewalks within the borough.
  • Jefferson Hills Borough was awarded $550,000 to rehabilitate a section of Peters Creek Road between Oak Road and Gill Hall Road in Jefferson Hills.