Deluzio Rolls Out Legislative Plan to Strengthen and Expand Voting Rights 

(Photo courtesy of Congressman DeLuzio’s Office) 

MCKEES ROCKS, PA – Last Friday , Iraq War veteran and former voting rights attorney Congressman Chris Deluzio (PA-17) announced the second part of his Defend Democracy Agenda, his plan to Strengthen and Expand Voting Rights. This slate of policies provides a roadmap for Congress to protect and expand the sacred right to vote for all Americans. This announcement follows the Congressman’s roll out of the first part of his agenda, which focused on earning public trust. He announced his plan at a press conference at a polling place in McKees Rocks and was joined by local and national voting rights advocates.

“Government of, by, and for the People depends on our foundational right to vote,” said Rep. Chris Deluzio. “Voting rights are under attack, including here in Pennsylvania, and Congress must take urgent action to shore up this sacred, hard-won freedom. Today, I am proud to announce the second part of my Defend Democracy Agenda, a plan to Strengthen and Expand Voting Rights. We can, and must, keep fighting for a government that lives up to our founding ideals, where every eligible American can exercise their freedom to vote. No exceptions.”

“Congressman Deluzio continues to be at the forefront of the fight to defend our democracy and protect our rights,” said Tiffany Muller, President of End Citizens United // Let America Vote Action Fund. “His Defend Democracy Agenda is a commonsense set of reforms that tackles the most pressing threats against our ability to vote. From protecting youth and student voting, to addressing the challenges facing unhoused Americans, to ending prison gerrymandering, to allowing same day registration, Congressman Deluzio is committed to breaking down the barriers to make our democracy more reflective of the people.”

Congressman Deluzio’s plan to Strengthen and Expand Voting Rights is the second in his three-part Defend Democracy Agenda to defend American democracy from the threat of rising anti-democratic forces. The slate he announced today starts with two comprehensive legislative packages to protect the right to vote: the John Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act and the Freedom to Vote Act. The rest of Congressman Deluzio’s plan includes a wide slate of policies that take more targeted approaches to protect and expand voting rights for all eligible Americans. The final part of Deluzio’s Defend Democracy Agenda is themed on election security and will be released in the coming months.

Pa. Turnpike Commission Warns about Text Messaging Scam

(File Photo)

(Harrisburg, Pa.) The Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission is warning E-ZPass customers about a scam that is targeting users with text messages asking for personal financial information.

The texts say they’re from “PA Turnpike Toll Services” and include “urgent requests” about the accounts’ overdue balance and coming late fees, according to a release from the Turnpike Commission.

Don’t click on the link if you receive a text or email message like that saying it’s from E-ZPass or another toll agency, the commission said. Similar scams have been reported by toll agencies across the country in recent days, the statement said.

For E-ZPass customers, there are multiple approved safe methods to check your account — the official PA Turnpike E-ZPass website or the PA Toll Pay app from the Apple App Store or Google Play store.

Customers who get a fraudulent message can report it to the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center at www.ic3.gov.

 

Department of Revenue Extends Customer Service Call Center Hours to Assist Late-Season Tax Filers

The deadline to submit 2023 personal income tax returns is Monday, April 15, 2024

Harrisburg, PA — With the deadline to file 2023 Pennsylvania personal income tax returns approaching, the Department of Revenue is extending its customer service hours for taxpayers to get help over the phone. This will help taxpayers get the assistance they need before the April 15, 2024 filing deadline, Revenue Secretary Pat Browne said today.

“We know from our experience that many of our fellow Pennsylvanians who have personal income tax questions benefit from speaking directly with one of our trained representatives on the phone,” Browne said. “That’s why we make a push during this time of year to offer as much phone support as possible prior to the filing deadline. We also have a number of customer resource options on the Department’s website that provide answers to common questions and will help taxpayers get their returns filed on time.”

Taxpayer Service and Assistance

Taxpayers can call 717-787-8201 to connect with the Department of Revenue’s Customer Experience Center (CEC). Beginning Tuesday, April 9, extended hours will be:

  • April 9 – 12 | 8 AM – 7 PM
  • April 13 | 10 AM to 3 PM
  • April 15 | 8 AM – 7 PM

Personal income tax assistance is also available through the Department’s Online Customer Service Center. The Online Customer Service Center contains answers to hundreds of common income tax questions and allows taxpayers to securely submit a question to the Department through a process that is similar to sending an email.

The Department of Revenue’s district offices are also open to provide customer service. Taxpayers are encouraged to call ahead to schedule an appointment and bring their Social Security cards and a photo ID with them to facilitate tax filing assistance. District offices are open 8:30 AM to 5 PM, Monday through Friday.

Taxpayers can check the status of their refunds online by selecting the Where’s My Income Tax Refund? link on the Department’s homepage, or by calling 1-888-PATAXES. Taxpayers will be prompted to provide their Social Security number and requested refund amount to obtain the current status.

Use myPATH to File Your State Tax Return for Free

The Department is encouraging taxpayers to electronically file their Pennsylvania personal income tax returns with the Department’s state-only online filing tool available at mypath.pa.gov. myPATH is a free, user-friendly option that allows most taxpayers to seamlessly file the Pennsylvania Income Tax Return (PA-40) and make income tax payments. Taxpayers do not need to create a username or password to perform many functions in myPATH. That includes filing a PA-40 or making a payment, responding to Department requests for information, and checking the status of a refund.

As a reminder, all taxpayers who received more than $33 in total gross taxable income in calendar year 2023 must file a Pennsylvania personal income tax return by midnight, Monday, April 15, 2024.

Spanish Resources for Filing

myPATH has an option for Spanish-speaking Pennsylvania taxpayers to file the PA Personal Income Tax Return (PA-40). In addition, the Department has an informational video in Spanish with step-by-step instructions on how to use myPATH to file a PA-40 as part of its Revenue411 video series.

Man and Woman Found Dead in Scott Twp.

(File Photo)

(Scott Twp.,  Allegheny County ) Authorities are reporting that a man and a woman were found dead in a home along Great Oak Road in Scott Twp. around 3 AM this morning.

Allegheny County Police said both the man and the woman suffered gunshot wounds.

The identities of the man and the woman have not been released as County Homicide Detectives continue to investigate.

Woman’s Car Vandalized In Wampum

(File Photo)

(Wampum, Boro, Lawrence County) Pa State Police in New Castle are reporting that they were called to Kay Street in Wampum Boro Lawrence County at 9:00 Pm on April 3, 2024 for a report of vandalism to a vehicle. Troopers reported that when they arrived it was report that an unknown actor damaged a 41-year-old female’s 2016 Chevy Impala as it was parked along Kay Street. The actor broke the driver’s front side window. Anyone with information is asked to contact state police at the New Castle barracks at 724-598-2211

Carol Ann (Domenick) Martella (1945-2024)

Carol Ann (Domenick) Martella, 78, of Hopewell Township, passed away on April 6th,
2024, surrounded by her loving family, at Good Samaritan Hospice after a hard-fought
battle with cancer. She was born on August 6th, 1945, to the late Dan and Anne Domenick. In addition to her parents, Carol was preceded in death by her mother and father-in-law, Carmine and Josephine Martella and her sister-in-law Anne Domenick.
Carol is survived by her devoted and loving husband of 53 years, Paul Martella, and her two children, Danielle (Scott) Joseph of Upton, Massachusetts; Paul (April) Martella Jr. of Hopewell Township; her grandchildren Benjamin and Ayden Joseph, and Domynik and Gabriel Martella; her brother Dan Domenick (Luminada) of Coraopolis; sister in laws, Loretta Martella of Aliquippa, and Angela (Gary) McHenry of Hopewell Township and two nephews, Joe (Rebecca) McHenry and Nick McHenry.
After graduating from Montour High School in 1964, Carol attended Pittsburgh Beauty
Academy. She began her career working at a salon in Coraopolis before leaving to
become a mother and homemaker. She continued styling hair for her family and friends out of her home for many years after.
Carol was a loving and devoted wife, mother, daughter, sister, sister-in-law,
grandmother, aunt, cousin, and amazing friend to so many. She loved spending time
with her family, especially her four grandchildren.
Carol was a member of Our Lady of Fatima church and volunteered her time every year to run various booths at the Fatima Festival, most notably the “cotton candy” booth.
She actively participated in her children’s sporting activities, fundraisers, school
functions and anything else that came her way.
Aside from her family, two other passions were her crafts and her love of bowling. She
held several bowling board positions (president, vice president and treasurer) through
her bowling career and when her health stopped her from playing, she still showed up
weekly and remained involved by helping to count money or other areas of need. She
bowled in two leagues on Tuesdays and Wednesdays, alongside her mother-in-law
Josephine. Carol also loved her crafts. Whether it was for the holidays or something she learned from her craft group or TV, her family and friends always reaped the benefits of her latest creation.
Family and friends are welcome to attend a Mass of Christian burial, Wednesday, April 10, at 11:30 am in Our Lady of Fatima Church, 2270 Broadhead Road, Aliquippa. Interment will follow at Mt. Olivet Cemetery.
Caroll’s memory will forever live on in the hearts of those who were touched by her
kindness, strength, and unwavering spirit.
The family would like to thank the incredible staff at Good Samaritan Hospice for the
loving and compassionate care that was extended to Carol.

Richard H. “Rick” Eiler (1951-2024)

Richard H. “Skeeter” Eiler, 72, of Darlington, passed away on the evening of April 6, 2024. He was born on June 21, 1951, and was preceded in death by his parents, William and Henrietta Eiler, and his brother, David Eiler. Rick’s absence will be deeply felt by his beloved wife of 52 years, Sherry; his daughters, Brandy (Paul) Woods and Candice (Bob) Sprecker; his grandchildren, Austin and Maura Woods; his step-grandchildren and great step-grandchildren; his sister, Billie (Bill) Jenkins; and a host of nephews, nieces, and cousins. While most knew him as Rick, he held a special fondness for the name “Pappy,” as bestowed upon him by his beloved grandchildren Austin and Maura, whom he cherished dearly. His legacy is one of profound love for his family, a passion for the great outdoors, and unwavering and dedicated service to his country.

Rick’s passion for hunting and nature was evident to all who knew him. His eyes would light up as he shared tales of all his outdoor adventures. He would often reminisce about memorable moments in the woods with his father, children, grandson, and friends. Rick would always refer to the outdoors as his “Happy Place,” where he could sit and find solace.  Rick wasn’t just an exceptional hunter; he also excelled as a teacher of the outdoors. He loved to share his knowledge and expertise with those around him, helping them distinguish various plants, trees, and wildlife.

He was also a member of the North Country Trail Wampum Chapter, where he took great pride in contributing to the trail in any capacity that he could. Over the years, he could often be spotted cleaning, marking, and crafting the trail, as well as repairing broken equipment for the Wampum Chapter.

As a testament to his passion for the outdoors, Rick was an active member of The Zelienople Sportsman’s Club, where he served on the board and held the position of Vice President in past years. His contributions to the club and its members will be remembered fondly.

Beyond his love for nature, Rick was always willing to provide support for those around him, whether he knew you or not. Always ready to lend a helping hand. His dedication to service extended beyond his community as he proudly served his country during the Vietnam War in the U.S. Army with the 97th Signal Battalion out of Manheim Germany.

In the quiet rustle of leaves and the echoing call of wildlife, Rick’s spirit will live on, forever remembered for his love of family, nature, and country.

Friends will be received on Thursday, April 11th from 4pm-7pm in the GABAUER FUNERAL HOME & CREMATION SERVICES, INC.- 1133 Penn Avenue, New Brighton, PA 15066.

Rick will be privately buried in the National Cemetery of the Alleghenies.

Memorial Contributions can be made in Rick’s name to the Beaver County Humane Society or Twelve Loaves Soup Kitchen, New Brighton.

Mary Elizabeth Matthews (1961-2024)

Mary Elizabeth Matthews, 62, of Beaver Falls, passed away on April 6, 2024 in Beaver Valley Health and Rehab.

Born June 5, 1961 in Beaver Falls, she was the daughter of the late John and Marie (Tress) Matthews. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by two brothers, David and John Matthews. She is survived by her son, Timothy Matthew Watson; her daughter and her fiancé, Natalie Watson and Don Jurasko; her grandson, Ethan Gedeon; her brother, Joseph Matthews; her sisters, Peg (Mike) Devich, Kathleen Matthews and Joyce Gruber; and several nieces and nephews. Mary graduated from Beaver Falls High School, where she was involved in numerous plays and clubs. She then went on to graduate from Carlow College in 2000, and also attended Robert Morris University.

She worked at Beaver County Career and Technology Center where she specialized in special education and culinary arts. She then went on to serve as a passionate volunteer at the Center for Creative Arts in Beaver Falls, where she shared her talents and creativity with others. A member of the First Baptist Church in Beaver Falls, Mary was deeply committed to her faith and dedicated countless hours to various church activities, where she served with unwavering devotion and enthusiasm.

Friends will be received on Wednesday, April 10th from 1pm-3pm and 5pm-7pm in the GABAUER-LUTTON FUNERAL HOME & CREMATION SVCS, INC- 117 Blackhawk Road, Chippewa Township.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that contributions be made in Mary’s name to The ALS Association Western Pennsylvania Chapter- 416 Lincoln Ave, Millvale, PA 15209.

Robert P. Naglreiter, Jr. (1954-2024)

Robert P. Naglreiter Jr., 70, of Chippewa, passed away on April 6, 2024, at Golden Hill Nursing and Rehabilitation of New Castle.
Born February 27, 1954, he was the son the late Robert P. and Margaret (Fash) Naglreiter Sr. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife of 43 years, Lois, and daughter Tiffany. He is survived by his wife, Susan Keely-Naglreiter, son and daughter-in-law, Tim and Melissa Naglreiter, granddaughters, Madison and Kaitlyn Naglreiter, and his kitty, “Pink Toes.” He attended Highland Presbyterian Church of New Castle. He was currently driving school bus for McCarter’s, a job he loved, along with the students he drove. He was formerly a Chippewa Fireman. He enjoyed breakfast at Eat-N-Park, the Pirates and Steelers, James Bond, Christian music, and hunting with his father and son. He loved spending time with his family, especially his granddaughters.
A celebration of life service will be held on Saturday, April 13 at Highland Presbyterian Church, 708 Highland Avenue, New Castle at 11 am. Service will be officiated by Pastor Rich Kinney.
Private burial will be held at Grove Cemetery of New Brighton.
Family requests donations be made in Robert’s name to J&J Spratt Funeral Home, in order to assist with this unexpected loss.

Beaver County Chambers Monday Memo: April 8, 2024

LAST CALL TO REGISTER
FOR OUR ANNUAL GALA!
Join us for our Annual Gala & Silent Auction at Shakespeare’s Restaurant & Pub. Celebrate the Chamber’s largest fundraiser of the year in a formal setting with a delicious meal, silent auction, LIVE MUSIC, cash bar, and more!
TICKET PRICES: $90 Per Member | $120 Per Non-Member
Interested in a sponsorship? Contact Molly at msuehr@bcchamber.com.
Submit your member news to msuehr@bcchamber.com
Treat Mom to a wonderful meal for Mother’s Day!
Support the mission of our organization by entering our Mother’s Day Dinner Raffle. The lucky winner receives a curated, hand-crafted dinner on May 11, 2024 for 8 people. Prepared by Crop and Kettle and delivered to the comfort of their home. Enter here and good luck!
Schedule A Ribbon Cutting
Ribbon Cuttings are a great way to support new businesses in
Beaver County and network for free! To schedule a Ribbon Cutting, contact
Molly Suehr at msuehr@bcchamber.com.
Now Hiring! Want to see a list of job postings from members? Don’t forget to add your own posting to the job postings portal on our website.
In need of a product or service?
Head to our full membership directory available on
our website, where you will find a trusted partner to
do business with today.
Beaver County Chamber of Commerce
724.775.3944
525 3rd Street, 2nd Floor
Beaver, PA 15009
Beaver County Chamber of Commerce | 525 Third Street2nd FloorBeaver, PA 15009-2132