Author: Beaver County Radio

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.

Wanted man from McKees Rocks taken into custody in Pittsburgh’s South Side

(Credit for Photo: Photo Courtesy of the Allegheny County Sheriff’s Office, Posted on Facebook on June 8th, 2026)

Noah Haswell, Beaver County Radio News

(Pittsburgh, PA) A detective brought a wanted McKees Rocks man into custody after spotting him during a routine patrol. 

A spokesperson for the Allegheny County Sheriff’s Office said Ean Irwin, 34, was arrested in Pittsburgh’s South Side yesterday. 

Officials said a deputy spotted Irwin vacuuming his vehicle while on patrol and called for backup. 

When Irwin saw law enforcement officers, he allegedly fled on foot but was taken into custody after a brief chase, according to the sheriff’s office. 

Irwin had been declared a fugitive in March for violating probation in a previous case. He was also wanted on a separate bench warrant for probation violations stemming from another incident. 

In addition, Irwin was wanted on domestic-related charges filed in McKees Rocks in March. 

Detectives cited a September 2020 crash on Frankstown Road in McKees Rocks as part of Irwin’s criminal history. According to investigators, a 2-year-old child and a 4-year-old child were riding unrestrained in the back seat of Irwin’s SUV when it crashed into another vehicle. 

Officials said Irwin removed one of the children from the SUV and fled the scene, leaving the other child behind. Both children suffered significant injuries. 

Irwin was arrested six months after the crash and pleaded guilty in December 2021 to multiple counts of endangering the welfare of children and recklessly endangering another person. 

He is being held at the Allegheny County Jail. 

Injury timeline for Pirates rookie shortshop Konnor Griffin more than expected

(File Photo: Source for Photo: Pittsburgh Pirates’ Konnor Griffin takes infield practice before making his Major League Baseball debut in the Pirates’ home-opener against the Baltimore Orioles in Pittsburgh, Friday, April 3, 2026. (AP Photo/Gene J. Puskar)

Noah Haswell, Beaver County Radio News

(Pittsburgh, PA) Pittsburgh Pirates rookie shortstop Konnor Griffin is expected to miss more time than originally anticipated because of a right arm flexor strain. 

Griffin was placed on the 10-day injured list on May 31st prior to the Pirates’ game against the Minnesota Twins at PNC Park. 

Pirates general manager Ben Cherington said the organization plans to be “more conservative” with Griffin’s recovery, and a timetable for his return has not been established. 

Before the injury, Griffin was batting .270 with a .327 on-base percentage and a .402 slugging percentage, good for a .729 OPS. In 51 games, he recorded 51 hits, nine doubles, two triples, four home runs and 22 RBIs. 

Griffin also stole 14 bases in 15 attempts. 

The Pirates signed Griffin to a nine-year, $140 million contract extension on April 8th, the largest contract in franchise history. 

U.S. Brig Niagara Underway, Begins 2,000-Mile Journey Home to Erie for 2026 July 4th Weekend

(Credit for Photo: Photo Courtesy of Erie Maritime Museum & U.S. Brig Niagara, Posted on Facebook on June 6th, 2026)

Noah Haswell, Beaver County Radio News

(Erie, PA) The U.S. Brig Niagara is underway following the completion of a year-long, $6.9 million restoration project, according to the Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission. 

The Commonwealth’s flagship departed Bristol Marine’s Sample’s Shipyard in Boothbay Harbor, Maine, on June 6th after undergoing extensive repairs and upgrades designed to improve the vessel’s structural integrity and long-term seaworthiness. 

The Niagara is now making a roughly 2,000-nautical-mile journey through the North Atlantic Ocean and the St. Lawrence Seaway. 

The vessel is scheduled to return to its homeport at the Erie Maritime Museum in Erie for a homecoming celebration July 2nd-5th, coinciding with the city’s Independence Day weekend festivities. 

U.S. Steel pledges up to $2.5 billion in upgrades to its Mon Valley Works facilities

(File Photo: Source for Photo: FILE – United States Steel’s Edgar Thomson Plant is seen in Braddock, Pa., Feb 26, 2019. (AP Photo/Gene J. Puskar, File)

Noah Haswell, Beaver County Radio News

(Braddock, PA) U.S. Steel announced yesterday that it plans to invest up to $2.5 billion in its Mon Valley Works facilities. 

An economic impact analysis released by the company projects the investment will generate $1.7 billion in economic activity across Pennsylvania, support up to 6,381 jobs over a three-year period and produce $58 million in state and local tax revenue. 

The investment will fund construction of a new hot strip mill at the Edgar Thomson Plant within Mon Valley Works, according to U.S. Steel. 

The company said the facility is expected to improve production yields, reduce energy consumption and enhance product quality. The mill also is intended to expand the range of steel products produced at Mon Valley Works, including materials for the automotive industry and other markets. 

The new hot strip mill will replace an 87-year-old hot strip mill at the nearby Irvin Plant, which U.S. Steel plans to decommission as part of the modernization effort. 

The announcement represents a significant increase from the investment commitment outlined by Nippon Steel in August 2024. At that time, the company pledged to invest at least $1 billion in Mon Valley Works following completion of its acquisition of U.S. Steel. Updated projections now place the investment between approximately $2 billion and $2.5 billion, more than double the original commitment. 

Pennsylvania lawmakers considering legislation that would eliminate annual vehicle testing emissions testing requirements across the state

(File Photo: Source for Photo: FILE – Cars for sale line the road at a used auto dealership in Philadelphia, Thursday, Sept. 29, 2022. The Federal Reserve’s expected move Wednesday, July 26, 2023, to raise interest rates for the 11th time could once again send ripple effects across the economy. (AP Photo/Matt Rourke, FILE)

Noah Haswell, Beaver County Radio News

(Beaver County, PA) Pennsylvania lawmakers are considering legislation that would eliminate annual vehicle emissions testing requirements across the state. 

The bill, sponsored by Republican state Senator Wayne Langerholc, would begin the process of ending emissions inspections for vehicles registered in Pennsylvania. 

Currently, motorists in several counties, including Beaver, Allegheny, Washington and Westmoreland, are required to have their vehicles undergo annual emissions testing in addition to safety inspections. The inspections are intended to ensure vehicles comply with federal air quality standards. 

Supporters of the legislation argue that emissions testing can result in costly repairs for vehicle owners and is not required in every Pennsylvania county. 

The proposal has received bipartisan support as it advances through the legislative process.