Aliquippa man convicted of beating another man at an Aliquippa VFW bar in 2025 sentenced to 16-32 total years in prison

(Credit for Photo: Photo Courtesy of the City of Aliquippa Police Department)

Noah Haswell, Beaver County Radio News

(Beaver County, PA) An Aliquippa man convicted of beating another man at the Aliquippa VFW 3577 bar last year received his sentence today of 16-32 total years in prison. Judge Kim Tesla gave the sentence to forty-year-old Brett Leonidas Ours, who was accused of assaulting Preston Coleman at the bar located on Penn Avenue on January 5th, 2025. Ours attacked Coleman unprovokingly for around 30 minutes. Investigators stated that surveillance video captured Ours punching Coleman in the face, slamming a barstool over his head, and standing on his throat. Aliquippa Police confirm that Coleman was nearly unconscious and defenseless when emergency crews responded to the incident.A jury found Ours guilty of aggravated assault, strangulation, aggravated assault with a deadly weapon, possession of instruments of a crime and three counts of simple assault on January 16th, 2026, but he was found not guilty of a charge of attempted murder that day. Ours was sentenced to 10-20 years for aggravated assault, 5-10 years for aggravated assault with a deadly weapon and 1-2 years for strangulation. He was also given a sentence of 4 months to 2 years for punching his then-girlfriend in the face during the beating. Ours took responsibility for the attack but he claimed that he was not trying to kill Coleman. Police took Ours into custody on February 6th, 2025 after police surrounded his West Aliquippa home.

Thomas Mizonick (1935-2026)

Thomas “Tom” Mizonick, 90, passed away peacefully on March 2nd, 2026, in Santa Clarita, California after a lengthy illness. He was born on September 23rd, 1935, a beloved son of the late Michael Mizonick and Helen Puchar Mizonick. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his devoted wife of 63 years, Betty Fischer Mizonick, his son-in-law, Jan Prasniewski, his brothers: John Sonich, Charles Sonich, Stephen Locke, and Nick Locke and his sisters, Anne Havis and Kathryn Nedde. Their memories remained a source of strength and comfort throughout his life. He is survived by his loving daughter, Lisa Mizonick of Santa Clarita, California, who was his constant support and devoted caregiver, his nephew, Richard Locke of Plano, Texas, his sister-in-law, Sally Kuhel and her husband, Rudy of Ambridge, and many cherished nieces and nephews who treasured his warmth, humor, and gentle presence.

Thomas was raised in a close-knit family and his values of kindness, loyalty, and generosity shaped the steady and compassionate man he became. He was a man of quiet resilience and deep loyalty and he leaves behind a legacy of kindness, family devotion, and unwavering love. His absence will be deeply felt, but his memory will continue to bring comfort and gratitude to all who knew him. He was an avid golfer and football fan, passions that brought joy and camaraderie throughout his life. He proudly served in the U.S. Army and retired after a lengthy career at the Motion Picture Industry in Studio City, California. He was also a 1954 graduate of Ambridge High School and he valued lifelong friendships, including his friend Rich Vasques.

A memorial service will be held at a later date in California to celebrate his life and legacy. Arrangements have been entrusted to the John Syka Funeral Home, Inc., 833 Kennedy Drive, Ambridge.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Thomas Mizonick, please visit the floral store of the John Syka Funeral Home, Inc. by clicking here.

PPG’s Laura Harshberger recognized on 2026 “Women of Influence” list by Pittsburgh Business Times

(File Photo of the PPG Industries Inc. Logo)

PITTSBURGH–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Mar 17, 2026– PPG (NYSE:PPG) today announced that Laura Harshberger, PPG global IT director, has been recognized on the 2026 Women of Influence list by the Pittsburgh Business Times. Women of Influence honorees are chosen through an independent editorial review, with selections based on merit, achievements and contributions to local organizations and the Pittsburgh community.

“Laura defines what it means to be influential within PPG and the broader Pittsburgh community,” said Bhaskar Ramachandran, PPG vice president and chief information officer. “In addition to her deep expertise in information technology, she turns advocacy into action and fosters inclusive workplace programs. Her passion for empowering talent and expanding access to opportunity is inspiring.”

Harshberger leads IT for PPG’s operations and environmental health and safety functions, and the global Industrial, Automotive and Packaging businesses. Over her 20-year career, she has managed and implemented systems in the entire manufacturing value chain, resulting in a more modern user experience at over 100 manufacturing sites. She also heads up PPG’s global IT internship program, which is the company’s primary early talent pipeline.

Harshberger has championed initiatives that support employee well-being and is active in several external organizations committed to empowering women and expanding opportunities through her work as a 10-year member of PPG’s Women’s Leadership Network (WLN), the first global sponsor of the WLN, and co-chair of the Women’s Leadership Council. She is also a member of the executive committee for Women United at the United Way of Southwestern PA.

Harshberger earned a Bachelor of Science degree in business administration from Carnegie Mellon University and an MBA from Robert Morris University.

Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra announces lineup for its 2026/2027 PNC Pops Season

(Credit for Photo: Photo Courtesy of Nancy Andrews)

Noah Haswell, Beaver County Radio News

(Pittsburgh, PA) The Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra has announced its lineup for its 2026/2027 PNC Pops Season, which will feature shows with Jeff Goldblum and the Mildred Snitzer Orchestra and Hamilton’s Leslie Odom Jr. This year’s movies with the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra series features movies from the Harry Potter, Star Wars and Lord of the Rings franchises.

According to a report from WPXI, here is the full 2026-2027 lineup:

Jeff Goldblum with the PSO

  • Oct. 6 at 7:30 p.m.
  • Jeff Goldblum, vocals

PNC Pops: Everything I Know

  • Mandy Gonzalez Sings Lin-Manuel Miranda with the PSO
  • Oct. at 7:30 p.m
  • Oct. 10 at 7:30 p.m.
  • Oct. 11 at 2:30 p.m.
  • Mandy Gonzalez, vocals

Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part I

  • Film with Live Orchestra
  • Oct. 30 at 7:00 p.m.
  • Nov. 1 at 2:30 p.m.

PNC Pops: Natural Woman

  • Sheléa Sings Aretha Franklin
  • Nov. 13 at 7:30 p.m.
  • Nov. 14 at 7:30 p.m.
  • Nov. 15 at 2:30 p.m.
  • Byron Stripling, conductor
  • Sheléa, vocals

How To Train Your Dragon

  • Film with Live Orchestra
  • Nov. 20 at 7:00 p.m.
  • Nov. 22 at 2:30 p.m.

Leslie Odom Jr. with the PSO

  • Dec. 8 at 7:30 p.m.

Highmark Holiday Pops

  • Dec. 11-13 & 18-20
  • Daniel Meyer, conductor
  • Mendelssohn Choir of Pittsburgh

It’s A Wonderful Life

  • Film with Live Orchestra
  • 80th Anniversary Celebration
  • Dec. 16 at 7:00 p.m.

PNC Pops: Once Upon a Time

  • Disney in Concert
  • Jan. 22 at 7:30 p.m.
  • Jan. 23 at 7:30 p.m.
  • Jan. 24 at 2:30 p.m.
  • Lawrence Loh, conductor

Star Wars: Return of the Jedi

  • Film with Live Orchestra
  • Feb. 5 at 7:00 p.m.
  • Feb. 7 at 2:30 p.m.

PNC Pops: Ragtime, Blues & All That Jazz

  • Feb. 26 at 7:30 p.m.
  • Feb. 27 at 7:30 p.m.
  • Feb. 28 at 2:30 p.m.
  • Byron Stripling, conductor
  • Bobby Floyd, keyboardist

PNC Pops: Music of Billy Joel

  • April 9 at 7:30 p.m.
  • April 10 at 7:30 p.m.
  • April 11 at 2:30 p.m.
  • Stuart Chafetz, conductor
  • Tony DeSare, vocals and piano

PNC Pops: Summer Breeze

  • Yacht Rock Classics
  • May 7 at 7:30 p.m.
  • May 8 at 7:30 p.m.
  • May 9 at 2:30 p.m.
  • Byron Stripling, conductor
  • Jesse Nager, vocals
  • Brie Cassil, vocals
  • Tony Vincent, vocals

Star Wars: A New Hope

  • 50th Anniversary Celebration
  • Film with Live Orchestra
  • May 25 at 7:00 p.m.

The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King

  • Film with Live Orchestra
  • June 25 at 7:00 p.m.
  • June 26 at 7:00 p.m.
  • June 27 at 2:30 p.m.

Tickets can be purchased on pittsburghsymphony.org by clicking here or by calling 412-392-4900. Subscription packages are also available now and July is when single tickets are available.

Meeting will discuss a Shell permit which would both expand and modify parts of its petrochemical plant operations

(File Photo of the Shell Logo)

Noah Haswell, Beaver County Radio News

(Monaca, PA) A meeting will take place this Thursday from 6-8 p.m. at the Penn State Beaver auditorium in Monaca to discuss a permit. This permit would allow Shell to both expand and modify parts of its petrochemical plant operations that would directly impact the air quality in Beaver County. The meeting will involve questions from attendees and you can RSVP for this event by clicking here.

Mega Millions ticket wins $2 million from the Pennsylvania Lottery

(Photo Courtesy of the Pennsylvania Lottery)

Noah Haswell, Beaver County Radio News

(Middletown, PA) The Pennsylvania Lottery announced yesterday that someone in Pennsylvania who bought a Mega Millions ticket won $2 million recently. The winning ticket was sold online and according to the Pennsylvania lottery’s website, the ticket matched all five white balls in Friday’s Mega Millions drawing: 6, 19, 36, 40, 55. The winner has not been identified and they have one year to claim the prize. You can view the current and past winning numbers by visiting the Pennsylvania Lottery’s website by clicking here. Nobody hit all five numbers and the yellow Mega Ball, so the jackpot will roll to an estimated $60 million for the next drawing tonight. The Pennsylvania Lottery also stated that winnings that were online of $2 million for Mega Millions must be claimed at lottery headquarters in person.

Pittsburgh Zoo & Aquarium exploring the idea of an aquarium in the North Shore

(Credit for Photo: Photo Courtesy of the Pittsburgh Zoo)

Noah Haswell, Beaver County Radio News

(Pittsburgh, PA) The Pittsburgh Zoo & Aquarium is exploring the development of a new stand-alone cultural destination on the North Shore known as the Pennsylvania Aquarium. The project is currently in a conceptual phase to determine if the facility is both viable and sustainable for the region. An economic impact study has been commissioned and a coalition of regional leaders is forming to evaluate funding and community impact. According to Dr. Jeremy Goodman, the president & CEO of the Pittsburgh Zoo & Aquarium, the Commonwealth is currently the most populous state without a stand-alone aquarium. No final decisions have been made regarding a specific location for the facility, even though site feasibility will be part of the evaluation process. There is currently no established construction timeline for the project. If completed, the aquarium would be the first major attraction built on the North Shore since PNC Park opened in April of 2001. The concept involves a large-scale destination that is designed for both immersive habitat experiences and aquatic conservation storytelling. Leaders emphasized that the Pennsylvania Aquarium would expand existing offerings from the Pittsburgh Zoo & Aquarium rather than duplicating them. The facility is intended to operate as a stand-alone destination that is separate from the main zoo grounds. The project is expected to strengthen the city’s position as a national leader in environmental education while expanding both tourism and regional economic activity. Planned benefits include the creation of new jobs and immersive learning programs that are focused on aquatic life and water systems. The Pittsburgh Zoo & Aquarium stated that it is committed to a responsible evaluation process before moving forward with this project.

Bonnie Jean Martin (Fouse) (1962-2026)

Bonnie Jean Martin (Fouse), 63, of Economy, passed away on March 16th, 2026, in the comfort of her home, surrounded by the love of her family. She was born in Sewickley and she was raised in Hopewell Township, where she learned the values that defined her life: faith, family, kindness, and service to others. Those who knew Bonnie knew her as someone who never met a stranger. She was a friend to everyone she encountered and was always ready with a smile, genuine advice, or a listening ear. Her heart was big enough to make everyone feel welcome and loved. She was the devoted wife of John W. Martin. Bonnie and John shared a beautiful love. Together, they built a life centered on faith, family, and loyal support for one another. This was especially evident during life’s most difficult challenges. Their marriage was marked by deep loyalty, laughter, and a partnership that served as an example to everyone who knew them.

Bonnie was also a proud and loving mother to Rayna Knox (Michael), Amy Effler (Kristopher), and Allison Feszko (Nicolo). Being their mother was one of her greatest joys and proudest callings. She was their constant source of encouragement, their steadfast provider of wisdom, and their safe place in every season of life. Through every milestone and challenge, Bonnie was there with immeasurable love, guidance, and prayers, which shaped the women they have become.

Perhaps her most cherished title was “Wobie.” As a grandmother, she was simply perfect—showering endless love, encouragement, and joy on her grandchildren and granddogs: Brenlee Jean (15), Baylee Elizabeth (11), Michaela Ray (6), Isaac Martin (4), Silas John (2), and Lucy, Copper, and Anna. Being their Wobie brought her such happiness; they were the light of her life. They will hold dear memories of times at Lake Raystown, pajama walks, nature walks, weekly family dinners, playing with both baby dolls and trucks, reading books, attending many sporting events and activities, and coloring on the driveway with chalk.

Bonnie was the cherished daughter-in-law of Ada “Betty” Martin. She is lovingly remembered by her sister, Tina (Dave) Harmon, and her brother, Dale (Kathy) Fouse, along with sister-in-law, Joann (Paul) Hovan, brother-in-law, Kevin (Kim) Martin, and other family members, including nieces and nephews who meant the world to her. Bonnie loved her family deeply and cherished every moment spent with them.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Ray and Virginia Fouse, and her father-in-law, Donald Martin.

Bonnie was a dedicated and lifelong member of Ohio United Presbyterian Church in Aliquippa, where her faith was not only something she believed but something she lived every day. Her church family was incredibly important to her, and she treasured the many brothers and sisters in Christ who walked alongside her throughout her life. Her life was defined by quiet but countless acts of service, both in her personal life and in her career as a nurse at Sewickley Valley Hospital, Ambridge Area School District, and Masonic Village Sewickley. She was always the first to be there when someone needed help, encouragement, or comfort. She loved others with her whole heart and gave generously of herself, never expecting anything in return.

Her life was a beautiful reflection of her faith and trust in the Lord. The words of Psalm 121 reflect the hope she carried: “I lift up my eyes to the hills—where does my help come from? My help comes from the Lord, the Maker of heaven and earth.” Bonnie lived with the assurance that the Lord was her strength in every circumstance. If you knew Bonnie, you felt loved. Her warmth, faith, and dedication to her family will remain a lasting legacy in the lives of all who knew her.

Family and friends will be received on Wednesday, March 18th, from 5–8 P.M. in the John Syka Funeral Home Inc., 833 Kennedy Drive, Ambridge, who was in charge of her arrangements. A time of viewing will also be held on Thursday, March 19th from 9–10 A.M. in the Ohio United Presbyterian Church in Hopewell, followed by a service to celebrate her beautiful life. Her final resting place will be Sylvania Hills Memorial Park, 273 PA-68, Rochester.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Bonnie Jean Martin, please visit the floral store of the John Syka Funeral Home, Inc. by clicking here.

Barry Lee Kemp (1960-2026)

Barry Lee Kemp, 65, formerly of Harmony Township, passed away on March 16th, 2026, at Celebration Villa of Chippewa. He was born in Sewickley on June 29th, 1960, the son of the late Albert and Evelyn (Bailey) Kemp. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his sister, Carol (Bruce) Smiley, and a cousin, Diane Frey. He is survived by his cousins, Janet Kemp (Scott), Sylvia Kemp-Orino (Richard), Richard Cycholl, Gary Bailey (Jackie), Ken Bailey (Leanne), Peggy Comstock (Dale), Debbie Prosser (Ken), and numerous friends and church family members. He will be remembered for his strong faith, his love of music, and the kindness he shared with those around him.

Barry worked for many years as a custodian at Ambridge Area High School, where he was known for his dedication and friendly presence among staff and students. He was an avid and devoted member of Calvary Fellowship Community Church in Ambridge. He considered the church his family and he was more than simply a member. He faithfully served the congregation for many years as the church organist, sharing his love of music and faith with all who attended.

Friends will be received on Sunday, March 22nd, from 2 p.m. until the time of a service at 5 p.m. at Calvary Fellowship Community Church, 300 11th Street, Ambridge, with Pastor Matthew Klenk officiating.

Memorial contributions can be made in Barry’s name to the Western Pa American Diabetes Association, P.O. Box 7023 Merrifield, VA 22116-7023 or donate online at  https://diabetes.org/

The GABAUER-TODD FUNERAL HOME & CREMATION SERVICES, 340 Third Street, Beaver, was honored to care for Barry during this time and was the funeral home that was in charge of his arrangements.

Deborah Maloney (Passed on March 9th, 2026)

Deborah Maloney, 70, of Industry, a cherished wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, passed away on Monday, March 9th, 2026, at Heritage Valley, Beaver following a recent surgery. She was born in East Liverpool, Ohio and she grew up in Industry, Pennsylvania. She is survived by her husband of 52 wonderful years, Robert A. Maloney, her three children, Brian (Jennifer) Maloney, Joseph (Valerie) Maloney, and Nicole (Chris Keller) Maloney, her grandchildren, Kayla, Hadley and Jack Maloney, Lilah Ross, Garrett Keller, Amber (Clayton) Lonetti, and Brandi (Matt) Gates, who were the apples of her eye, and she cherished every moment spent with them. She is also survived by her dear siblings, David (Carol) Adams, Randall (Doris) Adams, Priscilla (Jim) Ruth, and Linda Adams, who will hold her memory close to their hearts. She is also survived by numerous nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents, Milo Adams, Sr. and Delliah (Osborne) Adams Irwin, her brother Milo (Diane) Adams, Jr., and her beloved granddaughter Casey Gates.

Deborah’s professional journey began at the Chippewa Walmart, where she played a pivotal role as a retail manager in the electronics department when the store first opened. Her love for playing Bingo was well-known, and she was a regular at the Hookstown VFW. Debbie’s artistic side found expression in her love for crafts and ceramics.

Friends will be received on Tuesday, March 17th from 3-6 p.m. at SIMPSON FUNERAL & CREMATION SERVICES, 1119 Washington Avenue, Monaca, who was in charge of her arrangements.

The family wishes to express their gratitude to the critical care unit of Heritage Valley, Beaver for the compassionate, accommodating and professional care Debbie received while under their care.