Author: Beaver County Radio

PUC Issues Report on Pittsburgh Area Storm Event to Strengthen Electric Utility Preparedness and Resilience Across Pennsylvania

(Photo Provided with Release Courtesy of the Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission)

Noah Haswell, Beaver County Radio News

(Harrisburg, PA) The Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission (PUC) recently released a final post-storm report examining electric utilities” preparation and response following a comprehensive review of a major spring storm that caused widespread power outages across western Pennsylvania. This storm happened on April 29th, 2025 and the PUC’s report on it outlined key recommendations to strengthen future storm planning, coordination and system resilience across Pennsylvania. According to a release in Harrisburg today from the PUC, here are the key findings from this report as well as more information about the preparation for storms in the future:

Key Findings

Among the report’s key conclusions:

  • Utilities’ preparatory steps were generally appropriate based on available weather and outage forecasts, but electric distribution companies should continue to work on improving weather forecasting and outage prediction modelling.
  • Large-scale events continue to test electric distribution company assumptions about staffing, logistics, and restoration timelines.
  • Electric distribution companies continue to face challenges in providing consistent and reliable estimated times of restoration during complex storm events.
  • Sufficient access to skilled line workers – both internal and through mutual aid – is critical to restoring service safely and efficiently following major outages.
  • Coordination with county emergency management agencies and local officials was generally effective and remains a critical component of storm response.
  • Extended outages have a disproportionate impact on medically vulnerable customers and other populations with heightened needs during service disruptions.

Strengthening Planning for Future Storms

A central recommendation of the report is the re-establishment of a statewide Electric Distribution Company Storm Best Practices Group, which would focus on translating lessons learned into measurable improvements across the industry.
The Commission recommended that this group prioritize issues such as:

  • Storm response planning and scalability
  • Estimated time of restoration processes and communications
  • Mutual aid coordination and crew management
  • Road closure coordination and safety protocols
  • Sharing best practices and lessons learned from major events

Additional recommendations call for utilities to refine restoration forecasting, strengthen call center performance during high-volume events, enhance coordination with emergency management agencies, and continue investing in infrastructure hardening and system resilience.

A Statewide Focus on Resilience

  • The PUC emphasized that while this review was prompted by a specific storm, its findings and recommendations are relevant to every electric utility operating in Pennsylvania. Major outage events are not confined to any one region, and future storms could just as easily impact eastern, central, or northern parts of the Commonwealth.
  • By strengthening planning, coordination, and restoration practices now, the Commission said, utilities can improve reliability, protect public safety, and reduce the duration and impact of outages when severe weather occurs.
  • The full post-storm review is available on the PUC’s website by clicking here.

Prevent a winter blood shortage: Give blood or platelets now

(File Photo of the American Red Cross Logo)

Noah Haswell, Beaver County Radio News

(Pittsburgh, PA) The American Red Cross of Greater Pennsylvania is now urging people in Pennsylvania to make an appointment to give blood or platelets this month because they are on a shortage of blood this winter.  Donors that have types O, A negative and B negative blood are especially needed and those who give between January 1st-25th, 2026 will be entered automatically for a chance to win a trip to Super Bowl LX (60) and an exciting experience for the event in Santa Clara, California this year. More information about this giveaway can be found at RedCrossBlood.org/SuperBowl by clicking here.

According to a release from the American Red Cross of Greater Pennsylvania, here is more information about how you can make an appointment to donate blood or platelets:

How to donate blood

  • Simply download the American Red Cross Blood Donor App, visit RedCrossBlood.org, 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 or use the Blood Donor App.

Hookstown man taken into custody for causing damage on properties with a quad in Beaver County

(File Photo of Handcuffs)

Noah Haswell, Beaver County Radio News

(Hanover Township, PA) Pennsylvania State Police in Beaver reported via release today that twenty-nine-year-old Shane Gentry of Hookstown was taken into custody for committing an act of criminal mischief in Hanover Township of Beaver County. According to police, during the late hours of Saturday into the early hours of yesterday, Gentry took a quad which is owned by twenty-seven-year-old Kacey Messenger of Clinton, Pennsylvania and began driving it around the yard of 135 Gentry Drive. This caused damage that was significant to the front and rear yards and broke the “mushroom” vent for the sewage of the residence. The yard was owned by thirty-one-year-old Austin Gentry of Hookstown, who was a victim of this incident, along with sixty-three-year-old Douglas Gentry, also of Hookstown. then drove the quad onto a property that he was excluded from on 163 Gentry Drive and wrecked it by rolling it into the tree line, which caused damage that was significant to the quad. Gentry then tried to make a police report but was not sure of what he wanted to report to Beaver County 911 and Pennsylvania State Police Beaver, and then called back about five minutes later to report that he did not want or need the police, but made a request that a ‘higher power” would respond. Gentry was taken into custody for defiant trespass, disorderly conduct, a felony charge of criminal mischief, misuse of a 911 system and unauthorized use of a motor vehicle.

Sheetz Announces the Passing of Former President/CEO and Chairman of the Board Steve Sheetz

(Photo Provided with Release Courtesy of Sheetz)

Noah Haswell, Beaver County Radio News

(Altoona, PA) According to a release in Altoona, Pennsylvania today from Sheetz, they announced the passing of its former President, CEO, and Chairman of the Board, Stephen G. Sheetz, who died last night at the age of 77.

He was born in Altoona, Pennsylvania on January 7th, 1948 and graduated from Altoona High School in 1965. At just twelve years old, he began working part-time for Sheetz Kwik Shopper, the company that his brother Bob founded in 1952. After earning his degree from Penn State University in 1969, he became Supervisor and Director of Operations for all four Sheetz locations in operation. He later worked alongside Bob to grow the company to 100 store locations by 1983.

Following Bob’s retirement, Steve served as President and CEO of Sheetz from 1984 to 1995, guiding the company through a period of significant growth. He also served as Chairman of Sheetz’s Board of Directors from 1995 to 2013, before transitioning to Chairman of CLI Transport in 2013. In 2020, he retired as an official Sheetz executive, while continuing to serve as the chairman of the Family Committee.

The impact Steve had on Sheetz was immense because he played an instrumental role in guiding members of the Sheetz family into the business, helping them apply their skills and talents to support the company’s continued success. During his time as President and CEO, Sheetz introduced Made-to-Order (MTO®), entered the business of fuel, expanded the company into new states and created the Sheetz mission of “Total Customer Focus.” He remained actively involved in the business he helped build for over sixty years, providing counsel and support as Sheetz continued to grow.

Steve also had a lifelong commitment to philanthropy and he supported numerous community and educational causes across the Altoona area and central Pennsylvania. He and his wife, Nancy, founded a program called the Sheetz Fellows Program, which provides mentorship, financial support, and special programming to Penn State Altoona students with the potential to lead and serve in their communities and beyond. They also established the Sheetz Center for Entrepreneurial Excellence, which is located in downtown Altoona. The couple was named Philanthropists of the Year by Penn State University in 2010 in recognition of their contributions.

Steve is survived by his wife, Nancy, their two daughters, Megan Sheetz (Trevor Price) and Nicole Sheetz Frith (Brint Frith), and seven grandchildren.

Robert (Bob) William Melvin (1934-2026)

Robert (Bob) William Melvin, 91, of Darlington, passed away peacefully at his home on January 3rd, 2026, surrounded by his loving family.

He was born in Beaver Falls on April 28th, 1934, a son of the late Robert and Ruth (Gulligham) Melvin. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his daughter, Jeannie Ham, his brothers, Sonny, Tommy and Richie Melvin, his sister, Darlene Summerville, his in-laws, David and Lenora Welsh, his nephew, Chad Melvin and his godson, Adam Rohrmann. He is survived by his beloved wife of 58 years, Bonnie (Welsh) Melvin of Darlington, his younger brother and sister-in-law, Mike and Sue Melvin, his children: Pam and Steve Donahue, Marci and Chuck McKeel, Russell and Faye Melvin; as well as his daughter-in-law, Melody Carney and his sisters-in-law, Marion Gulett and Sandy Epling. He was a proud grandfather to: Russell and Marge Duran, Tyler and Maddie Donahue, Maddison and Randall Ashby, Jordyn (Jack) McKeel (Jack), Hunter (Zoe) McKeel, Stephanie and Brian Bonomo, and Robbie and Grace Coats. He was also blessed with great-grandchildren: Kaiden, Everleigh, Jack (“Squish”), Levi, Talia, Sophia, Eli and Maribelle.

Robert was a graduate from Beaver Falls High School. He retired from the Beaver Falls Post Office and also owned and operated his own roofing business. He proudly served his country in the United States Navy during the Korean War. He was a talented craftsman who had a remarkable gift for designing and creating stained glass pieces. He had an unconditional love for his family and especially cherished gathering together for Sunday dinners, a beloved family tradition. He was also a fifth-degree black belt in karate. He was also a Mason who was well known for his quick wit, warm heart, and wonderful sense of humor. He will be deeply missed by his wife, children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren and many nieces, nephews, friends, and extended family, all of whom were touched by his kindness, humor, and unwavering love for family.

A visitation will be held on Tuesday, January 6th from 2-4 P.M. and 6-8 P.M. at the Gabauer-Lutton Funeral Home and Cremation Services, Inc., 117 Blackhawk Road, Beaver Falls, who was in charge of his arrangements, and where a memorial service will be held on Wednesday, January 7th, beginning after full military honors at 11 A.M. followed by a service followed by his Entombment at 12 noon will at Beaver Falls Mausoleum in Chippewa Township on Darlington Road.

Contributions in Bob’s memory may be made to Three Oaks Hospice Care, 300 S. Walnut Lane, Beaver, PA 15009. The family extends a heartfelt thank you to Laura Feezle for her extraordinary care and kindness.

Iris Collins Rager (1932-2026)

Iris Collins Rager, 93, of Beaver Falls, formerly of Beaver, passed away on January 1st, 2026, surrounded by her loving family. She was born in Vanport on September 18th, 1932, a daughter of the late Edgar and Nora Collins. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her first husband, Eugene Dewhirst, her daughter, Elaine (Robert Halfhill) Dewhirst, her grandson, Dennis “DJ” Churney, her life-long companion, Glenn Aeschbacher and her brothers, Danny and Ernest Collins. She is survived by her daughters, Norma Dewhirst Stevens of Beaver Falls and Ellen Dewhirst (Eddie) Cook of North Sewickley, her grandchildren: Brian E. Hostetter, Melisa Stevens, Aaron Shrum, Stephanie (Scott) Spangler, Bobby Halfhill, Joey Halfhill, David (Rachael) Betke Jr., Derrek (Allison) Cook; as well as her brothers, Eddie (Rita) Collins, Regis Collins and Dennis (Sheilah) Collins, her sister-in-laws Myra Collins and Rosemary Collins, as well as multiple great grand children, three great great grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews.

Iris was a member of Park Presbyterian Church in Beaver. She enjoyed time with her family, gardening, and shopping. She started working at 7-11 in Vanport in 1981 before retiring in 1997. The family would like to extend a special thank you to Debra Dietz for her love and compassionate care for 4 years.

Family and friends will be received on Tuesday, January 6th from 3-6 p.m. with a service immediately following at the Noll Funeral Home, Inc., 333 Third Street, Beaver, who was in charge of her arrangements.

Online condolences may be shared at www.nollfuneral.com.

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

Evelyn Ann Dostalik (1937-2026)

Evelyn Ann Dostalik, 88, of Ohioville, passed away on January 1st, 2026, at Hemsley House of McCandless surrounded by her loving husband and children.

She was born in East Liverpool, Ohio on June 20th, 1937, the daughter of the late Mike and Theresa Hornick. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her brother Mike Hornick, her “brother,” Tony Vohar, her sister-in-law, Norma Hornick and her son, Ernest Dostalik Jr. She is survived by her husband of 66 years, Ernest Sr., her children: Theresa Dostalik (Monaca) and Marty (Kari) Dostalik (Urbandale, Iowa); daughter-in-law, Becky Dostalik (Walnut, Illinois); as well as her grandchildren Ruth (Isaac) Vohland (Walnut, Illinois), Ben Dostalik (Walnut, Illinois), Adam Dostalik (Indianapolis, Indiana) and Haley Dostalik (Houston, Texas); along with her great grandchildren, Livia, Audra and Jacob Vohland (Walnut, Illinois) and several nieces and nephews.

After graduating from Midland High School, Evelyn attended Duquesne University where she earned a degree in Elementary Education. While there, she met the love of her life, Ernest (Ernie) Dostalik. They were united in marriage on December 26th, 1959.

Evelyn and Ernie started their life together in Aspinwall, Pennsylvania, where Evelyn taught in the Fox Chapel school district. A short time later they moved to Midland, where Ernie started working at George’s Pharmacy and Evelyn cared for Ernest Jr, their newborn son. Evelyn and Ernie later welcomed two more children, daughter Theresa, and son Martin.

Shortly before the birth of Theresa, Ernie purchased George’s Pharmacy. Evelyn took over the bookwork for the business while continuing to substitute teach in Midland and Western Beaver. Her work increased two-fold when they purchased a second location, Porter’s Pharmacy in Moon Township. Evelyn continued in this role for 47 years, until both locations were sold.

In 1968, Evelyn and Ernie built a home on the edge of her parent’s farm and orchard in Ohioville, PA. There, many wonderful memories were made as a family.

Evelyn loved spending time in the kitchen cooking staples like lamb, stuffed cabbage, potato salad, banana bars, and Silver Star ham for family and friends. She and Ernie often held family dinners on Easter, Thanksgiving and Christmas, and enjoyed hosting large family reunions, graduation parties and wedding receptions at their home, where their large backyard and pool offered the perfect place to gather. Traveling with family and friends was something she treasured. Her favorites included several trips to Aruba with Ernie; a Hawaiian family vacation; four trips to Slovakia; an Alaskan cruise; and a trip to the Grand Canyon with friends. She also enjoyed trips to Illinois and Iowa to attend her grand/great-grandchildren’s concerts, recitals, birthday parties and graduations.

A Visitation will be held on Monday, January 5th from 3-6 p.m. at the Noll Funeral Home Inc., 333 Third Street, Beaver, who was in charge of her arrangements. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Tuesday, January 6th at St. Frances Cabrini Church, 115 Trinity Drive, Aliquippa.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorials be directed toward the Marfan Foundation (marfan.org/donate) and Alzheimer’s Association (alz.org).

The family would like to thank the staff at Hemsley House of McCandless and Hope Hospice for their loving care and support.

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

Jeffrey Lynn “Cricket” French (1947-2025)

Jeffrey Lynn “Cricket” French, 77, of East Liverpool, Ohio, passed away peacefully on December 31st, 2025, surrounded by her loving family, bringing a gentle close to a vibrant life filled with warmth, creativity, and unmistakable style. She was born on March 12th, 1947, a daughter of the late Carl and Stella Peacock. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Thomas French and her sister, Rosemary Peacock. She is survived by her children, Jeffrey French (Emily) and Jason French, her beloved grandchildren, Gabriel, Wyatt, and Trace, her sister, Kathy Thomas and many cherished nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends.

Jeffrey Lynn lived with a flair that turned every day into something special. Her love for the spotlight shone brightest when she shared the stage with her sisters, creating harmonies that warmed hearts and filled rooms with joy. From singing on stage, to singing at impromptu gatherings, her passion for singing with her sisters was only matched by her love for them. Her love and generosity extended to her family and friends, for whom she opened her home and heart, and made sure they were never hungry. She developed her lifelong passion for hair and beauty from her mother, and found not only a hobby, but a career. For decades, she taught cosmetology, sharing her expertise and encouragement with countless students who left her classroom not just with new skills, but with confidence they carried into their own lives. Nobody will forget her signature style: everything had to be leopard. She wore her love for the leopard print proudly, and it became as much of her as her generous heart and quick smile. Beyond the salon, she was a gifted baker, whose love for creating from scratch brought joy to so many. She mastered the art of homemade bread and delicious cookies, and crafted exquisite wedding cakes, each a labor of love and creativity. She was always happiest when she saw those she loved enjoying the warmth and comfort of a freshly baked delight.

A service is being held graveside on Monday, January 5th at 1 p.m., with a Celebration of Life gathering that will be determined soon.

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

Her life of selflessness reminds us that Grace is quiet strength and Love is shown in the everyday.

To order memorial trees or send flowers to the family in memory of Jeffrey Lynn “Cricket” French, please visit the flower store of the Noll Funeral Home, Inc. by clicking here.

Nancy L. Drogus (1934-2026)

Nancy L. Drogus, 91, passed away on January 2nd, 2026, at Celebration Villa of Chippewa. She was born in New Brighton on April 1st, 1934, a daughter of the late Laurie and Florence (Boettner) Merriman. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by a son, Robert S. Drogus, an infant, Richard Drogus, a daughter, Gaye E. Barber and an infant brother, Laurie Merriman and her granddaughter, Heather Davis. She is survived by her loving husband of 69 years, Robert Drogus, a sister, Norma Jean Hermick, grandchildren: Karolyn (Lee) Leavalle, Andrea (David) Werner, Hilary Bender, Haley Drogus, Robert “Trey” (Presley); as well as her great grandchildren: Lee and Jevoughn Leavalle, Avalon (Kevin) Criswell and Bradyn (Angelina) McCall, Ellie and Owen Bender, Gwen Drogus and her daughter-in-law, Laurie Ann Drogus.

Nancy proudly served for 14 years in food service at Blackhawk High School, where she was known for her dedication and kindness to students and staff alike. She spent much of her career as a medical assistant, serving patients throughout Beaver County with compassion and professionalism. She also spent 11 years as a school bus driver which she found to be very enlightening. Beyond her professional life, she had a deep passion for genealogy. She devoted countless hours to researching her family history, preserving stories and connections for future generations. This work was a true labor of love and a reflection of her appreciation for family and heritage. She was a faithful member of the New Brighton Methodist Church, where she found fellowship, faith, and community. Her quiet strength, generosity, and willingness to help others left a lasting impression on all who knew her. Those who knew Nancy well would say that while she could be feisty, she truly had a heart of gold. Her warmth, honesty, and genuine care for others shone through in everything she did.

Friends will be received Monday, January 5th, from 4 p.m. until 7 p.m. in the J & J Spratt Funeral Home Inc., 1612 Third Avenue, New Brighton, who was in charge of her arrangements. An additional viewing will be held on Tuesday, January 6th, from 10 a.m. until the time of service at 11 a.m. in the New Brighton Methodist Church, 1033 6th Avenue, New Brighton. Her pastor Gary Hilton will officiate the service.

Private Interment will follow in Sylvania Hills Memorial Park, 273 PA-68, Rochester.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to be made to the Love fund at the New Brighton Methodist Church.

Lastly, the family would like to thank the staff of Heritage Valley Hospital P.A.M, Concordia St. Joseph, and Celebration Villa for the wonderful care that they took of Nancy, and especially the love and care from her daughter-in-law, Laurie Drogus.

To order memorial trees or send flowers to the family in memory of Nancy L Drogus, please visit the flower store of the J&J Spratt Funeral Home, Inc. by clicking here.

Armstrong Allioth (Passed on December 30th, 2025)

Armstrong Allioth, 56, of Beaver Falls, formerly of Snellville, Georgia, Naples, Florida, and Boston, Massachusetts, passed away at his Beaver Falls residence of natural causes on December 30th, 2025. He was born in Haiti and his journey took him from the vibrant streets of New York City to the historic charm of Boston, and eventually to the warmth of Naples, Florida and the community-centric Snellville, Georgia before he settled in Beaver Falls. He is survived by his parents, Leon J. and Monique (Dubuisson) Allioth of Loganville, Georgia, his former spouse, Charity Simpson-Allioth, and their children: Spencer Alceus, Emmaline, Jaylee, and Arthur Allioth. They were a testament to Armstrong’s viking spirit & love. His granddaughters, Arezabella Alceus and Navi Gardner, were the apples of his eye. Armstrong was a brother to: Harld (Michelle) Allioth, Hermite ‘Mimi’ Grossett, Huguns Allioth, and Shirley (Rory) Woods; and he was an uncle to numerous nephews and nieces. He is also survived by his extended families: The Dubuissons, The Lazarres, The Gelins, The Simpsons, The Davenports, The Kaszers, and countless friends. Professionally, Armstrong was a skilled electrician within the construction trades. He earned many certificates for electrical wiring and an Associates in Electrical Technology. Armstrong’s enthusiasm for life was evident in his interests outside of work. He was an active figure on the sidelines at many of his children’s events. As of late, his concentration was coaching his son’s team, the Steel City Maulers. Everyone knew he was there because he cheered with the greatest thundering voice and passion. He had great pride in all of his children. He especially enjoyed hunting home run balls into the woods and working the concession stand at New Brighton or Beaver Falls youth events. Armstrong was also known for his conversational prowess. He was a talkative person who had a gift for connecting with others. His laughter and stories would fill a room, making every gathering a memorable one. Above all, Armstrong cherished the moments he spent with his granddaughters and children. Whether it was a quiet afternoon or a lively family event, hiking, or baseball games, he found joy in their presence. A celebration of his life is being planned for a later time. Arrangements have been entrusted to Simpson Funeral and Cremation Services, 1119 Washington Avenue, Monaca. To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Armstrong, please visit the floral store of Simpson Funeral and Cremation Services.