Beaver County Chamber of Commerce to Host Ribbon Cutting for McCarl’s New Headquarters

(Credit for Photo: Photo Courtesy of Paul J. Gough/Pittsburgh Business Times) Caption for Photo: Construction is ongoing at the new McCarl’s building on Bet-Tec Drive in Aliquippa.)

Noah Haswell, Beaver County Radio News

(Aliquippa, PA) The Beaver County Chamber of Commerce will hold a ribbon-cutting ceremony to celebrate the opening of McCarl’s new headquarters and fabrication facility in Aliquippa.

The event is scheduled for 10 a.m. on June 19th at the company’s new facility at 210 Bet-Tech Drive.

McCarl’s recently acquired the 80,000-square-foot building as part of a $15 million expansion of its pipe fabrication operations. Company officials said the expansion is intended to increase production capacity and meet growing customer demand.

According to the company, the project is expected to create approximately 130 jobs over the next five years.

The ribbon-cutting ceremony is expected to draw business leaders, elected officials, chamber representatives and community members.

Splash Pad malfunction at Iorfido Memorial Park in Ambridge identified as broken control switch board

(Credit for Photo: Photo Courtesy of the Borough of Ambridge, Posted on Facebook on June 6th, 2026)

Noah Haswell, Beaver County Radio News

(Ambridge, PA) The malfunction affecting the Splash Pad at Iorfido Memorial Park in Ambridge has been traced to a broken control switch board, according to borough officials.

Officials said a replacement part has been ordered and is expected to arrive Thursday.

If the repair process proceeds as planned, the Borough of Ambridge expects the splash pad to reopen by the weekend.

AHN Forbes Hospital Announces $63 Million Infrastructure Investment to Power Next Generation of Growth

(Credit for Photo: Photo Provided with Release Courtesy of Allegheny Health Network)

Noah Haswell, Beaver County Radio News

(Monroeville, PA) Allegheny Health Network announced a $63 million, multi-year investment in infrastructure upgrades at AHN Forbes Hospital.

The project will include improvements to several core building systems, including electrical transformers and switchgear, emergency generators, the chilled water plant, boilers and steam systems, fire pumps and sanitary lines.

As part of the project, AHN plans to construct a new two-story building on the hospital’s campus. The ground floor will house infrastructure and utility systems, while the second floor will serve as a conference and education center.

AHN said the investment is intended to support the hospital’s long-term operations and future growth.

Forbes Hospital opened in 1978 and serves communities throughout eastern Allegheny County and the surrounding region.

Wanda R. Ruckert (1954-2026)

Wanda R. Ruckert, 71, of Brighton Township, passed away on June 8th, 2026 in her home. She was born in Rochester on September 20th, 1954, the daughter of the late Frank Wallace and Regina Gordon. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her special nephew, Jeff Gray, and her father-in-law, Ron Ruckert. She is survived by her husband of twenty-four years, Michael Ruckert, two daughters and one son-in-law, Wanda and Jaime Bailey and Lori Harvey, two sisters and a brother-in-law, Linda and Sam Gray, and Jane Vargo and her late husband, Louis “Butch” Vargo, three grandkids, Austin Bailey, Lauren Bailey and her fiancé, Cole Johnston, and Taylor DiMarzio and her fiancé, Dylan Goodrich, two great-grandchildren, Leiya and Jackson Johnston, her mother-in-law, Judy Ruckert, two sisters-in-law and brother-in-law, Shelly Probst, and Tina and Sam Harden, two nephews, Dylan Probst and Tristan Harden, two nieces, Danika Valko and Skylie Harden, two great nieces, and numerous other nieces and nephews.

Wanda was a retired caregiver through multiple outlets across Beaver County. She was also a member of Family Bible Church in Freedom. She also loved her pets very deeply.

Friends will be received Sunday June 14th, from 1-4 p.m., with a service following at 4:30 p.m. at the William Murphy Funeral Home, Inc., 349 Adams Street, Rochester, who was in charge of her arrangements. Officiating will be Pastor Ed and Austin Bailey.

Andrea Suzanne Dallas (1989-2026)

Andrea Suzanne Dallas, 40, passed away on June 3rd, 2026. She was born on January 5th, 1989 and is survived by her beloved son, Mekel, who was the light of her life, her devoted life partner, Meko, and Meko’s children, Meko Jr. and Mekiyah, whom she loved and cared for as her own, her mother, Linda Taylor, her father and steadfast rock, Tony Dallas and his life partner, Chrissy, her sister, Nichol, and her husband, Alex, whom she saw as a brother of her own, her brother, Brian, her sister, Jackie, her niece, Lexi and nephew, Darian, who were blessed to know her as a second mother, as well as her many beloved nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles, and extended family members, and dear friends whose lives were forever touched by her love. To know Andrea was to know joy. She lived life, loudly, bold, and with her whole heart. She was the kind of person whose presence filled a room. She was loud in the best way: full of life, laughter, love, and unwavering loyalty. She had a smile so genuine that every photograph captured what seemed to be a laugh in progress, and her infectious laugh brought joy to everyone around her. She was fiercely proud of her Italian heritage, and nowhere was that more evident that in her kitchen. Cooking wasn’t just something she did—it was how she loved people. Whether she was preparing a holiday feast, dropping off food for a loved one, feeding coworkers, or making her son’s favorite meal, she found joy in nourishing the people she cared about. She was fiercely loyal, nurturing and protective, and endlessly supportive. She was the person family and friends could always count on, Strong, dependable and full of heart, she made everyone around her feel safe, loved, and important. Above all else, she was a devoted mother to her beloved son, Mekel, who was the center of her world. She was his biggest supporter and loudest cheerleader, proudly filling the sidelines with her voice as she watched him play football. Her love extended equally to Meko Jr. and Mekiyah, who she treated as her own and celebrated every milestone and achievement alongside them. She shared a beautiful bond with Mekel’s father, Meko. They were best friends and life partners. Together they built a life centered around family, love, loyalty, and countless memories that will be cherished forever. Though her time here was far too short and her passing leaves an unimaginable void, the love she gave so freely with never leave those who knew her. Her family will forever remember her laughter, her beautiful smile, her unwavering loyalty, and the way she made every gathering feel like home. They will miss the meals she lovingly prepared, the cheers from the sidelines, and most of all, her hugs. Not the quick, polite hugs people often give, but her hugs were the ones that pulled you all the way in, held on a little longer, and made you feel so warm and loved. She would often leave you with a kiss on the cheek, a simple gesture that somehow said what words could not. Though her arms can no longer wrap around those she loved, the warmth, comfort, and love found in those hugs will remain in their hearts forever. To celebrate the beautiful life she lived, guests are encouraged to wear bright colors that reflect her joyful personality. A memorial visitation will be held on Friday, June 12th from 3:30 P.M. until the time of a memorial service at 7 P.M. at the John Syka Funeral Home, Inc., 833 Kennedy Drive, Ambridge, who was in charge of her arrangements. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to a college fund for her son, Mekel, whose future was one of Andrea’s greatest hopes and dreams. Donations can be made to Mekel’s GoFundMe by clicking here https://gofund.me/f9ed90ad3

Ron “Spider” Morelli (1953-2026)

Ron “Spider” Morelli, 73, of Beaver, passed away peacefully at home, surrounded by his loving family, on June 5th, 2026. He was born on June 2nd, 1953, a beloved son of Eraldo “Slim” Morelli and Adelina “Tillie” (Simoni) Morelli. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother-in-law, Ralph Romano, his sister-in-law, Angela (Roma) Lukens, his aunts and uncles, as well as cousins and special friends and his uncle and godfather, Peter P Simoni.

He is survived by his loving wife, Bernadette Roma Morelli, his beloved children: Brandon (Stephanie) Thomson, Ian (Theresa) Thomson, Pam Morelli, Anthony (Brittany) Thomson, Elyse Thomson, and Nate (Francie) Morelli; as well as his cherished grandchildren: Adia and Liam Thomson, Allison Nichol and Jonah Thomson, Maeve and Maren Thomson, and Isla and Natalie Morelli, who will forever treasure their memories of their “Nons,” his brother, Rich (Janet) Morelli; his nieces, Jessica (Joe) DeMatteis and Amanda (Justin) Morelli-Blanda; his great-nieces, Adelina DeMatteis, Carson Blanda, and Quinn Morelli; and Valentina Nero, Michael (Taylor) Lukens and Brian (Jen) Lukens, and his great-niece Sloane, who lovingly called him “Silly Nonnu.” He also leaves behind many loving members of the Roma Family: Joe Roma, Toni Romano and her children, Sylvia Roma, Beth (Eric) Lohner and Theresa (Blake) Nero and their children, with whom he shared many happy memories. He is further survived by many close cousins, friends, neighbors, and his special cat, Arlo.

Ron was a 1971 graduate of Quigley Catholic High School. He was active in the theater both during his high school years and after; he was best known for his role as Nathan Detroit in Quigley’s 1971 production of “Guys and Dolls.” He was a keeper of crazy socks, silly ties, funny jokes, and remarkable mustaches. He had enough love in his heart to heal the world, and a smile to brighten the darkest of days. He was the best hugger, a gifted optimist, a faithful servant, and his trust in God was unwavering. He faced his challenges with courage and handled his defeats with grace. There wasn’t a person that didn’t know him or know of him through his sayings, like greeting people with a smile and a “How you doin?” and responding to people asking him how he’s doing with: “If I was any better, I would be you!” He had a varied and storied career. Between high school and college, he spent summers working at A&S Railroad and LTV Steel Corporation. After he graduated in 1975 from Edinboro University with a B.A. in English, he entered the workforce as an English teacher at Quigley Catholic High School and Our Lady of the Sacred Heart. While teaching at Quigley, he directed high school musicals. Following his career in education, he worked as an entertainment facilitator at Penn State Beaver, a salesperson at ComputerLand and for US Airways. He spent 27 years working at FedEx and retired as a Senior Network Analyst for FedEx Services before retirement. He continued to enjoy many deep and lasting friendships with different groups, including his childhood friends, and his “FedEx guys;” that he enjoyed going out to eat and golfing with. Whether you met him for a moment or knew him for a lifetime, you loved him just the same. He was a fierce warrior, a phenomenal singer, a calming spirit, and a solid presence. He was a thespian and he loved sharing his beautiful voice with others as a member of the Beaver Valley Choral Society. He had a powerful and unwavering faith; he grew up as a member of St. Titus Roman Catholic Church in Aliquippa and attended Mass at Saints Peter & Paul Church in Beaver, part of Our Lady of the Valley Parish. He was also a member of the Holy Name Society and Men’s Group through his Parish. He looked forward every year to his family tradition by carrying the San Rocco statue in the parade, which he did for more than 35 years. He will always be remembered for his life-long love of Spiderman; there are many who know him simply as “Spider.” He left his cape incognito, but wore his heart on his sleeve. San Rocco, countless holidays, and family traditions will never feel the same without his presence, but his legacy will live on through the countless lives he’s touched. He will be forever remembered for his generous heart, sense of humor, and the love he gave so freely to those around him. All those who knew him will forever cherish every moment spent with a true superhero.

Friends and family will be received for a visitation on Wednesday, June 10th and Thursday, June 11th from 4-7 p.m. at the Anthony Mastrofrancesco Funeral Home, Inc. of Aliquippa, who was in charge of his arrangements. A funeral Mass will also be held on Friday, June 12th at 11 a.m. at St. Titus Roman Catholic Church, 952 Franklin Avenue, Aliquippa with Fr. Howard Campbell officiating. Interment will be at Mt. Olivet Cemetery, 2186 Brodhead Road, Aliquippa.

In lieu of flowers, the family would encourage donations to PANCAN Ron’s name (pancan.org) or to the American Diabetes Association (In Memory of Ron “Spider” Morelli – Fundraising For American Diabetes Association, https://diy-diabetes.donordrive.com/campaigns/In-Memory-of-Ron–Spider–Morelli (click here to donate)

Allegheny Health Network Shares Summer Eye Health and Safety Tips as Outdoor Activities Increase

(File Photo of the Allegheny Health Network Logo)

Noah Haswell, Beaver County Radio News

(Pittsburgh, PA) As more people spend time outdoors during the summer months, eye specialists are reminding residents to protect their vision from seasonal hazards such as sun exposure, allergens and preventable injuries.

Physicians with Allegheny Health Network Ophthalmology say simple precautions can help reduce the risk of common summertime eye problems.

AHN experts recommend incorporating the following tips into your summer routine, according to a release from Allegheny Health Network:

  • Wear sunglasses with 100% UV protection: Protect against harmful ultraviolet (UV) radiation, made up of UVA and UVB rays, which can contribute to long-term conditions like cataracts and macular degeneration. A wide-brimmed hat can provide additional protection.
  • Use protective eyewear during yard work, home repairs and outdoor activities: Lawn mowing, weed whacking, and DIY projects can send debris into the air. The same is true for sports and hikes in wooded areas, where branches or other objects can cause injury.
  • Take extra precautions after eye surgery: Patients who have had procedures such as LASIK or cataract surgery should be especially diligent about wearing protective eyewear to help prevent irritation or lasting damage.
  • Manage eye health during allergy season: Pollen and other allergens can lead to redness, itching and irritation. Avoid rubbing your eyes and seek treatment if symptoms persist.
  • Avoid swimming with contact lenses: Pools, lakes and hot tubs can expose eyes to harmful microorganisms, including Acanthamoeba, a rare but serious cause of eye infection.
  • Give your eyes a break from screens and the sun: Heat, sun exposure and prolonged screen time can all contribute to dryness and irritation. Follow the 20-20-20 rule — every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds. Stay well hydrated and consider using artificial tears to keep eyes comfortable throughout the day.

Helen M. Mehalik (1940-2026)

Helen M. Mehalik, 85, of Brighton Township, passed away on June 4th, 2026, at Heritage Valley Beaver.

She was born in Pittsburgh on July 8th, 1940, a daughter of the late Philip and Helen (Kasper) Demoratz. She was the 6th of 9 children. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her loving husband of 50 years, John Mehalik, her brothers: Joseph, Philip, Jr., Joseph, Steve and George; as well as her sisters, Margaret Liberatore and Ann Postich, her son-in-law, Al Colaizzi and her step-grandson, Anthony Colaizzi. She is survived by two daughters, Susan (Chris) Gubish and Mary Colaizzi and her son, John T. Mehalik, Jr., all of Brighton Township, her grandchildren, Justin (Melissa) Mehalik (Howell, Michigan) and Katherine Gubish of Carnegie, her great grandchildren, Thomas, Lucas, and Nikolas, step-grandchildren, Ben Colazzi and Amanda (Caleb Watts) of Pittsburgh, her great grandchildren, Azaela Carmichael and CJ Watts and two sisters, Mary (Frank) Aloi of Ellwood City and Diane (David) Reese of Industry and numerous nieces, nephews, grand nieces and nephews.

Helen was a devoted wife, loving mother, dedicated grandmother, great grandmother, and caring friend. She was kind and welcoming, making sure to never let a birthday or special event pass without letting those in her life know they were loved. She hosted many gatherings through the years. Her house was a space where friends gathered and became family. She enjoyed gambling, going out to eat, and playing cards, especially Kings Corner. To know her was to know unconditional love. She belonged to Saints Peter and Paul Church in Beaver, where she was a member of the Keenage Club and Marian Guild. She would often volunteer at the church and school. She was also a member of St. Anthony Auxillary in Midland.

Friends will be received on Thursday, June 11th, from 4-8 p.m. in the Noll Funeral Home, Inc., 333 Third Street, Beaver, who was in charge of her arrangements. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Friday, June 12th at 10:30 a.m. at Saints Peter and Paul Church, 200 3rd Street, Beaver.

The family would like to thank the staff at HVHS Beaver. The care and compassion the doctors and nurses provided in her final days was an immeasurable comfort to the family. They also thank Dr. Frank Aloi who was always available for his Aunt Helen.

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

Bonita Jean Smith McDanel (1953-2026)

Bonita Jean Smith McDanel, 73, of Beaver, passed away on June 6th, 2026. She was born on February 17th, 1953, a daughter of the late John Charles Smith and Jean Eleanora Robinson Smith. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Walter S. McDanel Jr., her son, Shaun Charles Justice, lost at birth, her sister, Joyce Smith Grandstaff and her nephew, John Scott Merriman. She is survived by her son, Marc Elliot Justice and his wife, Renee Christine Justice, her daughter, Kimberly Ann Justice, her stepson, Adam McDanel and her grandchildren: Sean Mark Justice, Colin John Justice, Gabriel Alyse Baclit, and Maison Frederick Hogue.

Bonita was a graduate of Center High School, with its class of 1971, and retired from working at Atcheson Oral Surgery where she devoted many years of dedicated service. In her final years, Bonita faced Alzheimer’s disease with the quiet dignity that defined her throughout her life. Though the illness took much from her, it could not diminish the love her family held for her or the mark she left on those who knew her. All arrangements are entrusted to William Murphy Funeral Home, Inc. 349 Adams Street Rochester, PA 15074. A private interment will take place at Oak Grove Cemetery, 1101 9th St Extension, Freedom. A Celebration of Life will be announced at a later date.

Driver charged for improperly securing grill in vehicle during three-vehicle crash in Robinson Township

(File Photo of a Police Siren Light)

Noah Haswell, Beaver County Radio News

(Robinson Township, PA) Pennsylvania State Police in Pittsburgh reported today that an unidentified driver was charged for improperly securing a load following a three-vehicle crash Friday in Robinson Township.

According to police, the driver was traveling eastbound on Interstate 376 at about 4:53 p.m. while transporting a grill that was not properly secured.

The driver related to police that a strap holding the grill came loose, causing pieces of it to fall from the vehicle onto the roadway.

Two other drivers then struck a metal grate that had fallen into the road, resulting in flat tires on both vehicles.

No injuries were reported.