Author: Beaver County Radio

Route 18 Frankfort Road Bridge Reopens in Potter Township

Route 18 Frankfort Road Bridge Reopens in Potter Township

Short-term restrictions continue throughout the remainder of the project

Pittsburgh, PA – The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) is announcing the Route 18 Frankfort Road Bridge over Raccoon Creek in Potter Township, Beaver County has reopened to traffic.

The Route 18 Frankfort Road Bridge closed to traffic on Monday, September 28 to accommodate roadway tie-in work and was to remain closed through Friday, October 9. Crews have completed the work ahead of schedule and have reopened both the Route 18 bridge and Raccoon Creek Road to traffic.

Additionally, there will be short-term restrictions continuing throughout the remainder of the project including a one-day detour anticipated in November for demolition of the old bridge and single-lane alternating restrictions from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM weekdays through 2027.

The existing bridge over Raccoon Creek maintained traffic while the new structure and roadway realignment were constructed on this $25.27 million replacement project. A reduced duration detour was utilized to allow crews to complete the roadway tie-ins. The project also includes a sidewalk and aesthetic architectural surface treatments on the bridge. The overall project is anticipated to conclude in the fall of 2027.

Please stay alert and drive cautiously – safety is everyone’s responsibility.

Travelers can check conditions on major roads by visiting www.511PA.com. 511PA, which is free and available 24 hours a day, provides traffic delay warnings, weather forecasts, traffic speed information and access to more than 1,200 traffic cameras. 511PA is also available through a smartphone application for iPhone and Android devices, by calling 5-1-1, or by following regional X alerts.

Find PennDOT’s planned and active construction projects at www.pa.gov/DOTprojects. Subscribe to PennDOT news and find transportation results in Allegheny, Beaver, and Lawrence counties at www.pa.gov/DOTdistrict11.

Find PennDOT news on X, Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn.

Estimates for replacement of Brady’s Run playground discussed at Commissioners’ work session

(File Photo of the Beaver County Courthouse)

Noah Haswell, Beaver County Radio News

(Beaver, PA) A few topics were discussed at today’s Beaver County Commissioners’ work session.

County Solicitor Garen Fedeles addressed during the solicitors’ report of the session that there are thirty resolutions prepared for tomorrow.

These included two of them as agreements with Economy Borough for an emergency services unit and drug task force, along with some amendments for community development projects.

Those projects include things like new sidewalks at the Women’s Center and an agreement with Constellation to sell energy tax credits in the county.

The main topic was when Commissioner Jack Manning talked about the playground at Brady’s Run Park during the commissioners’ report.

Manning stated that the Commissioners received some calls about it and they have been talking with County Recreation and Tourism Director Tony Caltury.

Manning confirmed that the Commissioners do have some estimates to replace that playground and go through the process for doing that.

This is because the Commissioners have been addressing for more than a year that some of the playground’s equipment is in poor shape, and they do not want the playground to be more of a hazard for safety.

Manning also noted that the paving project that required painting the lines at Friendship Circle in Beaver has been finished.

2027 Monster Energy SMX World Championship Coming to Acrisure Stadium

(Credit for Photo: Photo Provided with Release Courtesy of the Pittsburgh Steelers)

Noah Haswell, Beaver County Radio News

(Pittsburgh, PA) Tickets are officially on-sale now after a recent announcement by the SMX League® for the complete 2027 Monster Energy SMX World Championship regular season schedule, which is comprised of the 17-race Monster Energy AMA Supercross Championship and the 11-race Pro Motocross Championship that is sanctioned by AMA Pro Racing.

The best two-wheel racers in the world will meet at Acrisure Stadium in Pittsburgh for Round 15 on April 24th, 2027.

According to a release from the Pittsburgh Steelers, here is more information about this event:

WHEN: Saturday, April 24, 2027

➢ Gates Open / Practice & Qualifying starts at 12:00 PM
➢ FanFest hours: 12:00 PM–6:00 PM
➢ Opening Ceremonies at 6:30 PM
➢ Racing starts at 7:00 PM

WHERE: Acrisure Stadium – 100 Art Rooney Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15212

TICKETS: Tickets and Pit Passes will be available for purchase online at Ticketmaster.com (click here) or in-person at the venue box office
*ticket prices subject to change – additional venue/ticketing fees may apply

For local Pittsburgh event info, please visit https://www.supercrosslive.com/tickets/pittsburgh-pa/apr-24-2027

Highmark Wholecare to Host Largest Free Farmers Market To Date in Southwestern Pennsylvania

(File Photo of the Highmark Blue Cross and Blue Shield Logo)

Noah Haswell, Beaver County Radio News

(Washington, PA) Highmark Wholecare will host a free farmers market tomorrow in Washington, Pennsylvania at the Washington Junior Senior High School with Washington School District and the Greater Pittsburgh Community Food Bank.

Students as well as their families and members of the community will be able to select their own fresh produce and the food distribution will occur from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., while supplies last.

The event is part of Highmark Wholecare’s Farm-to-Family program so the medicaid insurer address food insecurity.

13,000 pounds of food will be available for over 600 families at this event, which makes it the largest Farm-to-Family event in Southwestern Pennsylvania in the program’s history.

Highmark Wholecare has given out over 226,000 pounds of food to 12,000 families at farmers markets in Western and Central Pennsylvania through 30 events so far this year.

Red Cross: Patients are counting on blood and platelet donors to give now

(File Photo of the American Red Cross Logo)

Noah Haswell, Beaver County Radio News

(Pittsburgh, PA) The American Red Cross is asking people to book a time to give blood or platelets to help keep the blood supply as strong as possible this fall.

There is a constant need for blood and donors of all blood types are needed.

Those who come to give from September 21st-October 18th, will receive a $15 e-gift card to a merchant of their choice. Anyone who comes to give from October 19th-November 22nd will receive up to $20 in Gift Cards, which is an $10 Amazon Gift Card by email and 500 bonus points that can be redeemed for a $10 e-gift card through Blood Donor Rewards.

According to a release from the American Red Cross of Greater Pennsylvania, here are some ways to donate blood:

Simply download the American Red Cross Blood Donor App, visit RedCrossBlood.org (click here), call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) or enable the Blood Donor Skill on any Alexa Echo device to make an appointment or for more information. All blood types are needed to ensure a reliable supply for patients. A blood donor card or driver’s license or two other forms of identification are required at check-in. Individuals who are 17 years of age in most states (16 with parental consent where allowed by state law), weigh at least 110 pounds and are in generally good health may be eligible to donate blood. High school students and other donors 18 years of age and younger also have to meet certain height and weight requirements.

Blood and platelet donors can save time at their next donation by using RapidPass® to complete their pre-donation reading and health history questionnaire online, on the day of their donation, before arriving at the blood drive. To get started, follow the instructions at RedCrossBlood.org/RapidPass (click here) or use the Blood Donor App.

Thomas Lee Stickel (Passed on October 4th, 2026)

Thomas Lee Stickel, 76, passed away on October 4th, 2026, surrounded by his family. He was born in Beaver Falls, the son of Fay M. Stickel and the late Thomas C. Stickel. Thomas was a graduate of Beaver High School and earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology from Tarkio College in Tarkio, Missouri. He went on to earn his Juris Doctor from Cleveland State University and spent many years practicing law in Columbiana and Beaver counties. Some of his happiest times were spent with family and friends at his favorite place, Emerald Isle, North Carolina. He was introduced to windsurfing by his son-in-law, Tamer, and quickly became an avid windsurfer. He also loved water-skiing and boating with family and friends on the Ohio River. Whether he was on the water or simply spending time with the people he loved, he knew how to enjoy life. He will be remembered for his great sense of humor and a laugh that could fill the room. He was hard-working, generous and sensitive, and was always willing to lend a hand to someone in need. Above all, he loved his family deeply and treasured the time he spent with them. His warmth, humor and generosity will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him. He is survived by his devoted wife and soulmate of 46 years, Betty Stickel, his daughter, Heather Yalcinkaya, and her husband, Tamer, and their children, Selin, Berk, Derin and Melodi, his daughter, Richelle Hoy, and her husband, Chris, and their children, Kirsten and Claire; and his sister, Nancy Hall. A private service to honor Thomas’ life will be held at a later date. Arrangements have been entrusted to Simpson Funeral and Cremation Services, 1119 Washington Avenue, Monaca. Donations in his honor can be made to the local charity Communicycle at Communicycle.org or to the American Cancer Society. To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Thomas, please visit the floral store of the Noll Funeral Home, Inc. by clicking here.

Dr. Bruce Michael Warnes (1952-2026)

Dr. Bruce Michael Warnes, 74, of Beaver, left this life on October 5th, 2026, while at home with his wife, Marjory, by his side. He was born April 2nd, 1952, at 1:15 a.m. to Don and Pauline Warnes—an hour and 15 minutes delayed to share a birthday with his mother, who joked for years about her late birthday present!

After graduating from Beaver High School in 1970, Dr. Bruce earned degrees in materials science and metallurgy from Penn State University in 1973, 1980, and 1983. In 1990, he earned his doctorate in metallurgical engineering from the University of Pittsburgh.

He was fascinated by how things work—and often, figured out how to make them work better. This curiosity led to an illustrative career in the aerospace industry, first at Howmet in Whitehall, Michigan, and later as an independent consultant. Bruce was an inventor on over two dozen patents and routinely presented his research at national and international conferences.

Outside of work, he played softball, volunteered as a Boy Scout leader, and served as president of the congregation for five years at Holy Trinity Lutheran Church in Beaver, Pennsylvania. He also was a talented artist who enjoyed oil painting, drawing, and creating stained glass. He was an avid reader who enjoyed reading about American history, preferably oceanside in Vero Beach, Florida, where he married Marjory in 1986.

For years, Bruce spoke about his dream of owning a pinball machine—which came true in 2008 when he purchased his first game. One machine eventually became a dozen, creating a private collection that brought him enormous pleasure and ensured that his love of pinball would be passed along to his children and grandchildren.

His children remember him for sharing his love of science and how things work, the outdoors, and music … particularly organ music. They share many fond memories of exploring the outdoors with him, including a memorable hike in Elk State Forest in Pennsylvania that lasted far longer and was further ranging than anyone expected.

He is survived by his wife of forty years, Marjory, three children, Melanie (Kevin) Peffer of Greeley, Colorado, John Warnes of Beaver and Jeffrey (Kayla) Warnes of Beaver, four grandchildren, Felix and Jasper Peffer and Ember and Onyx Warnes, two sisters, Susan Seyboth of Windsor, Connecticut, and Lucinda Schwarz of Beaver and his beloved sister-in-law, “Mary Sue” (Suzy) Burgess.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Pauline and Don Warnes.

In lieu of flowers, Dr. Bruce’s family is requesting for memorial contributions to be made to the Jules B. Puschett Research Endowment at the University of Pittsburgh in support of kidney research. The donation page can be found at dom.pitt.edu/renal/giving/.

A celebration of life will be held at 4 p.m. on Friday, November 6th, at the Beaver Pool House, 700 Buffalo Street in Beaver with a private interment at the Beaver Cemetery, Buffalo Street, Beaver.

The Noll Funeral Home, Inc, 333 Third Street, Beaver is managing his arrangements.

Online condolences can be shared at nollfuneral.com.

The family would like to thank all of Dr. Bruce’s caregivers at UPMC Shadyside Hospital, Fresenius Kidney Care, and EnHabit Home Health for their care and compassion during Bruce’s long illness.

To send flowers or plant a memorial tree in memory of Dr. Bruce, please visit the flower store of the Noll Funeral Home, Inc. by clicking here.

Timothy J. “TJ” Johnson (1955-2026)

Timothy J. “TJ” Johnson, 70, of Pittsburgh, passed away on October 3rd, 2026 at Canterberry Place in Pittsburgh.

He was born in Titusville on November 11th, 1955, a son of the late Joseph and Mary (McIntyre) Johnson.

Timothy proudly served his country as a veteran of the United States Navy. He was a proud member of the International Union of Elevator Constructors (IUEC) Local 6, where he was well known and respected by his fellow members throughout his years of service. He was a true outdoorsman who loved trapping, hunting, fishing, and riding whenever he had the chance. He was a jack of all trades who could seemingly fix, build, or figure out just about anything, and he was especially gifted when it came to gardening, having an incredible green thumb. Above all, he was a devoted father and grandfather who treasured spending time with his children and grandchildren. His family was his greatest joy, and the memories they made together will always hold a special place in their hearts.

He is survived by his wife, Judith (Wagner) Johnson, his children, Andrew (Andrea) Johnson and Katrina (Jack) Balser, his grandchildren, Travis and Riley Johnson, his brother, Dave Johnson, along with numerous extended family and friends.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his siblings, Joe, Sue and Becky.

Friends will received on Saturday, October 10th from 1 P.M. until the time of military honors at 4 P.M. in the GABAUER-LUTTON FUNERAL HOME & CREMATION SERVICES, Inc., 117 Blackhawk Road, Beaver Falls, who was in charge of his arrangements.

Private interment will take place at Woodlawn Cemetery, 892 W Spring Street, Titusville, PA 16354.

To send flowers or plant a memorial tree in memory, please visit the flower store of the Noll Funeral Home, Inc. by clicking here.

Joseph H. Widmer (1929-2026)

Joseph H. Widmer, 97, of Cranberry Township, formerly of Rochester Township, passed away on October 5th, 2026, at UPMC Passavant McCandless.

He was born in Connellsville on March 19th, 1929, a son of the late Karl and Catherine Mulsalvage Widmer.

Joseph was the founder and former owner of Widmer Engineering Inc., of Beaver Falls, a former member of Faith Community United Methodist Church in Rochester, and was attending St. Ferdinand Roman Catholic Church in Cranberry. He was an Air Force Veteran during the Korean war, a graduate of Immaculate Conception Catholic School, in Connellsville, Pennsylvania and received a bachelor’s degree in engineering from Geneva College. Joseph was a former employee in engineering with Michael Baker Inc. for 21 years. He was a member of the Pennsylvania Society for Professional Engineers as well as the Beaver County Chapter of Professional Engineers. He was honored as the Engineer of the Year in 1984. He was a former member of the Rochester School Board, Rochester Township Commissioners, and former Chairman of the Beaver County Commissioners. He was the former president of the United Methodist Home in Mt. Lebanon and a life member of the American Legion.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife, Aloha R. (Roush) Widmer, as well as five brothers: Albert, Robert, Charles, Bernard, and Victor Widmer; as well as one sister, JoAnn Palazzo.

He is survived by one son and daughter-in-law, David H. and Linda L. Widmer of Rochester Township, three grandchildren, Jamie M., Anuskewic and her fiance, Joel Webber, Tracy A. and her husband Bryan Pratte, and Alexus L. and her husband A.J. Sieger, seven great-grandchildren, Addilynn, Sawyer, Mila, Aria, Ezra, Emmett, and Nora, and numerous nieces and nephews.

The family will receive friends on Thursday, October 8th, from 2-4 p.m. and 6-8 p.m., with a service occurring on Friday, October 9th at 10:30 a.m., at the William Murphy Funeral Home Inc., 349 Adams Street, Rochester, who was in charge of his arrangements.

Officiating will be Reverend Heather J. Wakefield, of Faith Community United Methodist Church in Rochester. Interment will be held in Sylvania Hills Memorial Park, 273 PA-68, Rochester. The family asks that those who wish to honor the memory of Joseph would consider making a donation to the Ronald McDonald House of Charities of Northeast Ohio in honor of his great-grandson, Ezra.

The family feels this is a beautiful way to honor Joseph while supporting someone he loved dearly. The family extends their heartfelt thanks for all of the love, prayers, and support received during this difficult time. Please make checks payable to RMHC Northeast Ohio, Ronald McDonald House Charities of NEO PO Box 72764 Cleveland, OH 44192-0004, Website: rmhcneo.org/ways-to-give/donate/ Full military honors will be provided by the Vietnam Veterans of America Chapter #862 at 11:30 a.m. on Friday, October 9th, at the cemetery, for their fallen comrade.

Las Vegas man hits police vehicle with his vehicle in Cranberry Township

(File Photo of a Pennsylvania State Police Trooper Car)

Noah Haswell, Beaver County Radio News

(Cranberry Township, PA) Pennsylvania State Police in Gibsonia reported today that a state police vehicle was hit by another vehicle in Cranberry Township yesterday.

This crash occurred at 11:25 a.m. and the police vehicle was stationary before the crash occurred.

That police vehicle was along the shoulder of the Cranberry on-ramp to Interstate 76 so the PSP Gibsonia trooper that was in the vehicle could monitor traffic.

A vehicle driven by sixty-five-year-old Randy L. Jones of Las Vegas, Nevada went off of the road because of an unknown reason and then went through a grassy area before hitting the police vehicle with his vehicle.

Jones’ vehicle then went up an embankment and stopped at the crest of that embankment.

That vehicle was towed from the scene.

Jones was taken by an ambulance to Allegheny General Hospital so he could undergo treatment of an unknown injury.

The police trooper was not injured.