Author: Beaver County Radio

AG Sunday: OAG Drug Agents had Record Month for Seized Firearms in Southwestern Pa., Increasing Dangers Posed to Law Enforcement

(File Photo: Source for Photo: Dave Sunday speaks to the audience in the Forum Auditorium across the street from the Capitol after taking the oath to become Pennsylvania’s next attorney general, Jan. 21, 2025, in Harrisburg, Pa. (AP Photo/Marc Levy)

Noah Haswell, Beaver County Radio News

(North Huntingdon, PA) According to a release in North Huntingdon, Pennsylvania from Pennsylvania Attorney General Dave Sunday’s office, Sunday joined law enforcement partners to announce an increase in firearms seizures in January by Office of Attorney General narcotics agents in southwestern Pennsylvania, illustrating the increased risks posed to police by drug traffickers. The Office of Attorney General’s Bureau of Narcotics Investigation, which was assisted by federal, state, and local partners, seized 41 firearms in Pennsylvania’s Region 5 last month during the course of drug trafficking investigations. Agents believe that total to be a single-month high in Region 5, which includes Allegheny, Fayette, Somerset, and Westmoreland counties. Agents also seized more than 12 pounds of cocaine, a pound of crack cocaine, and more than 63,000 doses of fentanyl, along with quantities of heroin and marijuana in those investigations. So far, nine people have been arrested in connection to about 20 cases that involved illegally-possessed firearms. The total number of firearms that were seized in the region for the year has climbed to 48. Most of the recoveries of firearms happened outside of Pittsburgh and the two biggest seizures happened in Fayette and Somerset counties, where ongoing investigations remain regarding those guns. Sunday was joined at a press event today by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration, U.S. Homeland Security Investigations, Pennsylvania State Police, Fayette County District Attorney Michael Aubele, Somerset County District Attorney Tom Leiden, Westmoreland County District Attorney Nicole Ziccarelli, and numerous municipal police departments.

State Representative Rob Matzie applauds Zerfuss and PUC action on rail safety

(File Photo of State Representative Rob Matzie)

Noah Haswelll, Beaver County Radio News

(Ambridge, PA) According to a release in Ambridge from State Representative Rob Matzie’s office, Matzie praised today the Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission’s (PUC’s) decision to review its rail safety regulations, saying the commission will consider some of the same safety measures in his own rail safety bill that passed the House. The PUC’s action that occurred on Friday that granted a motion for proposed rulemaking, offered by PUC Commissioner Kathryn Zerfuss, mirrors the call of Matzie for stronger state regulation of rail safety, which is a move he says is needed in the absence of better federal oversight. Matzie explained: “I applaud Commissioner Zerfuss and the PUC for taking the reins on rail safety, and I’m glad the commission plans to focus on some of the same reporting, oversight and equipment issues I call for in my rail safety legislation. With thousands of miles of rail running through our region and federal regulations falling short, time is of the essence. We can’t afford to wait for another East Palestine.” Matzie also stated that the experts of the PUC will review rail safety regulations with respect to five areas, which includes the proper functioning of wayside detectors that are trackside sensors that warn when train cars are overheating because of problems that can cause derailment. That equipment is one focus of H.B. 1191 from Matzie, which was adopted by the House Consumer Protection, Technology and Utilities Committee by a large, bipartisan margin in December of 2025 and is awaiting a vote by the full House. Similar legislation that was sponsored by Matzie passed the House in 2023, but never received a vote in the Pennsylvania Senate.

Governor Shapiro Orders U.S. and Pennsylvania Flags to Half-Staff on March 7th in Honor of Reverend Jesse Jackson

(File Photo: Source for Photo: FILE – Rev. Jesse Jackson gestures to a friend in the balcony at the 16th Street Baptist Church in Birmingham, Ala., Sept. 15, 2013. The church held a ceremony honoring the memory of the four young girls who were killed by a bomb placed outside the church 50 years ago by members of the Ku Klux Klan. At right is U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell, D-Ala. (AP Photo/Dave Martin, File)

Noah Haswell, Beaver County Radio News

(Harrisburg, PA) According to a release in Harrisburg from Governor Josh Shapiro’s office, Shapiro ordered today that United States and Commonwealth flags on all Commonwealth facilities, public buildings, and grounds across the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania to fly at half-staff on Saturday, March 7th, 2026, in honor of Reverend Jesse Jackson who passed away on Tuesday. This tribute will coincide with the last day of memorial services scheduled for Reverend Jackson, who was a civil rights activist and Baptist minister who championed the civil rights movement. He made countless visits to Pennsylvania, advocating for labor rights and civil rights across the state, from Pittsburgh and Erie to Harrisburg and Philadelphia throughout his life of service. In October of 2024, on one of his last visits to the Commonwealth, Reverend Jackson was hosted by the Pennsylvania Legislative Black Caucus, and while in the Capitol, he was recognized by the General Assembly for founding the Rainbow PUSH Coalition, which advocates for civil rights, economic equality, social justice and voting rights.

Shapiro made a post on X on the day of Jackson’s passing on Tuesday and said:

“Rev. Jesse Jackson was a change maker, a boundary breaker, and a passionate and unrelenting crusader for civil rights, equality and opportunity. To be around him felt like you were experiencing history. It was an honor to share the pulpit with him back in September of 2016 at Sharon Baptist Church in West Philly. I hung on his every word and could feel how much his presence meant to the congregation. Lori and I are praying for his wife Jacqueline, his family, and everyone he inspired over the years. May the memory of Rev. Jesse Jackson be a blessing.”

All Pennsylvanians are invited to participate in this tribute to honor the late Reverend Jackson and the flags shall remain lowered until sunset on March 7th, 2026.

Talking Pirates baseball with broadcaster Greg Brown

SCOTT TADY

BRADENTON — Sure, it’s super early, but the Pittsburgh Pirates are off to a fine start, winning their first three spring training games.

In Monday’s interview with Beaver County Radio, Pirates broadcaster Greg Brown talked about the team’s solid early going, the quest to fill out the starting rotation, and the legacy of the late-Bill Mazeroski.

Here’s Brown’s interview from Feb. 23:

 

Patricia A. “Pat” Dusold (1951-2026)

Patricia A. “Pat” Dusold, 74, of Aliquippa, passed away peacefully in her home on February 19, 2026. She was born on April 7th, 1951, a beloved daughter of the late Thomas and Theresa Kovacick. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, David Dusold and her siblings, Nancy Stewart and Tom Kovacick. She is survived by her son and daughter-in-law, Dennis and Judy Dusold, her grandchildren: Kennedy Dusold (Zay Tucker), Austin Dusold (Anna Hartman), and Taylor Dusold,Jennifer (Barry) Messenger, Amanda (Bill) Friedline and Julia Searight; as well as her great grandchildren: Bryson and A.J, Kacey, Christian, Dustin and Tiler, along with her two great-great grandchildren, Scarlett and Sawyer, her sister, Rondele and Donnie Weyand and her sisters-in-law and brothers-in-law: Mary Sue and Tim Fredricks, Robert Dusold, George and Cecilia Dusold, Matt and Debbie Dusold and Becky Dusold. She is also lovingly remembered by numerous nieces and nephews.

Patricia dedicated over a decade to her work as a barista at Coffee Beanery, where her warmth, kindness, and smile brightened the days of both customers and coworkers alike. She took pride in crafting each cup of coffee and cherished the friendships she built throughout her career. She was also a devoted Green Bay Packers fan and was an enthusiastic collector of moose memorabilia whose passions brought joy to her family and friends. Her generosity, humor, and unwavering spirit will be dearly missed by all who knew her. Her legacy lives on in the hearts of her family and friends. Her family extends their heartfelt appreciation to the nurses of Good Samaritan Hospice for the outstanding care and compassion shown to her, with special recognition to Colleen for her extraordinary dedication and kindness.

At Patricia’s request, there will be no services. Arrangements have been entrusted to the Anthony Mastrofranceseco Funeral Home, Inc., 2026 McMinn Street, Aliquippa.

She will be buried with her husband at the National Cemtery of the Alleghenies, 1158 Morgan Road, Bridgeville.

To send flowers or a memorial gift to the family of Patricia A. Dusold, please visit the Sympathy Store of the Anthony Mastrofrancesco Funeral Home, Inc. by clicking here.

I-376 Parkway West Shoulder, Lane Restriction Underway in Findlay Township

(File Photo of Road Work Ahead Sign)

Noah Haswell, Beaver County Radio News

(Findlay Township, PA) PennDOT District 11 announced that a shoulder and lane restriction on I-376 in Findlay Township is underway today. From 8 A.M. to 3 P.M., a shoulder and single lane restriction will occur on I-376 in each direction between the Moon (Exit 50) and Airport (Exit 53) exits as needed as PennDOT crews will conduct guide rail repair work there.

Emily Joanne DeLuca (1945-2026)

Emily Joanne DeLuca, 80, of Aliquippa, passed away on February 20th, 2026.
She was born in Rochester on December 17th, 1945, the daughter of the late Emilio and Rose (Nichilo) Mancini. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her brother, Fr. Domenic “Mimo” Mancini and numerous other relatives.
Family was always at the heart of Emily’s life. She cherished gatherings and took great pleasure in preparing lavish meals that were enjoyed by all. Even when everyone had eaten their fill of the tasty dishes, there was still enough food left to feed an entire army. Sunday dinners were important to her, showing her commitment to gathering loved ones for special meals and time together. When she wasn’t cooking, she liked word search puzzles and oldies music. She was stylish, always wearing her favorite jewelry and scarves. She worked at Maria Rubino’s Beauty Salon, Pittsburgh International Airport’s in-flight kitchen, and Marianne Bakers Hair Design before retiring. She and her family were dedicated participants in the Supinesi San Cataldo committee, annually commemorating their patron saint of Supino through organized fundraising events and banquets.
She is survived by her loving husband of 60 years, Frank, her daughters, Joleen (Rob) Frantz and Jeannine (Jamie) Huston, her grandsons, Joshua (Jen) Huston and Devin Peltier, her great-grandson, Wyatt Huston, her brother, Donald (Linda) Mancini and their children, Damien (Holli) Mancini and Dina (Aaron) McCavitt, her special cousin, Bill (Linda) Nichilo and all her extended family.
A Visitation will be held on Thursday, February 26th, from 4-8 p.m. at the Anthony Mastrofrancesco Funeral Home Inc., 2026 McMinn Street, Aliquippa, who was in charge of her arrangements, and where departing prayers will begin at 9:15 a.m. on Friday, February 27th followed by a Mass of Christian burial at 10 a.m. in St. Frances Cabrini Church, 115 Trinity Drive, Aliquippa. Interment will follow in Mt. Olivet Cemetery, 2186 Brodhead Road, Aliquippa. The family extends their heartfelt thanks to Cranberry Place’s skilled nursing staff for their compassion, as well as AHN – Wexford Hospital nursing staff and Hospice for their unwavering comfort and support during a difficult time. A special thank you to the Aliquippa Elks Lodge #1221 for their continued love and support.
Emily was also a devoted supporter of St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. In lieu of flowers, donations in her memory may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 262 Danny Thomas Place, Memphis, TN 38105.
Emily will always be remembered by those who loved her; though her departure brought sadness, she told her family that she was happy and her heart was full of love.

To send flowers or a memorial gift to the family of Emily Joanne DeLuca please visit the Sympathy Store of the Anthony Mastrofrancesco Funeral Home, Inc. by clicking here.

Jane Elizabeth Saalinger (1944-2026)

Jane Elizabeth Saalinger, 81, of Chippewa Township, passed away unexpectedly on February 19th, 2026, at Heritage Valley Health System – Beaver Campus.

She was born in Swissvale, Pennsylvania on November 18th, 1944, the daughter of the late John and Elizabeth (Samu) Yuhas. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Bernard E. “Jake” Saalinger, Jr. and a brother, John (Susan) Yuhas.

She is survived by her loving daughters, Bonnie Lee (Jerry) Munro and Robin Beth (Scott) Donley, her grandchildren: Aidan Mitchell, Elena Mitchell, Megan Donley, Piper Donley, and Grace (Ryan) Warnick; as well as a great-granddaughter, Elizabeth “Birdie”, her brother, David (Becky) Yuhas, her brother-in-law, Wes (Gretchen) Saalinger, her sister-in-law, Sandi (Ernie) Essner, along with numerous nieces, nephews, and many special friends.

Following her high school graduation, Jane continued her education at the Community College of Beaver County and later graduated as a Registered Nurse.  She worked for many years at the former Beaver Medical Center.  In retirement, Jane enjoyed traveling, spending time with her grandchildren, and the occasional trip to the casino.

Friends will be received on Wednesday, February 25th from 3 P.M. until the time of services at 6 P.M. in the GABAUER-LUTTON FUNERAL HOME & CREMATION SERVICES, INC., 117 Blackhawk Road, Beaver Falls, who was in charge of her arrangements.

Following services, Jane’s wishes for cremation will be honored and inurnment will be at Beaver Cemetery & Mausoleum, Buffalo Street, Beaver, alongside her husband.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in Jane’s honor may be directed to the American Cancer Society, https://donate.cancer.org/, or the Beaver County Humane Society, 3394 Brodhead Road, Aliquippa, PA 15001.

Edward N. Summers (1958-2026)

Edward N. Summers, 67, of Brighton Township, passed away at home surrounded by his loving family on February 16th, 2026 after a long and courageous battle with cancer.

He was born in Rochester on September 22nd, 1958,  a son of the late Paul K. and Betty J. (Lyons) Summers. Edward was a beloved husband to the late Denise L. Summers for 45 years and was also a devoted and loving father to Leanne M. Summers. He was a retired member of the Laborer’s Union Local #833 and a member of Midland American Legion Post #481.

Aside from spending time with family and friends, his passions included camping with family, working on cars, riding his motorcycles, and attending music concerts.

Edward will be greatly missed by his daughter, Leanne M. Summers of Chippewa. In addition to his parents and his wife, he was preceded in death by his sister, Paulette Gunn. He also has a surviving brother-in-law, Tom Gunn of Beaver Falls. He is survived by two brothers, Paul L. (Karen) Summers of Brighton Township and John C. (Rosemary) Summers of Ball Ground, Georgia, two sisters, Charlotte Summers of Beaver Falls and Veatrice (Bruce) Schultz of Brighton Township, one brother-in-law, David (Teresa) Staats of Galena, Ohio. Edward will also be missed by numerous nieces & nephews, close friends, his faithful and loyal dog, Abby and his grand-pets, Izzy and Luna.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be directed to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, wwwstjude.org.

A Celebration of Life will be announced at a later date to honor and celebrate the lives of both Edward and Denise Summers. Arrangements have been entrusted to the Noll Funeral Home, Inc., 333 Third Street, Beaver.

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

Greensburg native and bobsledder Jasmine Jones wins a bronze medal in the 2026 Milano-Cortina Winter Olympic Games

(File Photo: Source for Photo: KDKA-TV, CBS Pittsburgh, Posted on Facebook on February 22nd, 2026)

Noah Haswell, Beaver County Radio News

(Milan, Italy) Greensburg native and bobsledder Jasmine Jones won a bronze medal at the 2026 Milano-Cortina Winter Olympic Games in Italy on Saturday. Jones, who served as the push athlete for her teammate, Kaillie Humphries as the duo won the bronze medal in the two-woman bobsled race. The pair finished just 0.15 seconds ahead of the 4th place finisher. Two teams from Germany finished ahead of Jones and Humphries to receive the gold and silver medals.