Author: Beaver County Radio

Richard A. Philipp (1942-2026)

Richard A. Philipp, 83, of New Brighton, passed away on October 16th, 2026.

He was born in New Brighton on October 17, 1942, a son of the late Carl H. and Elsa M. (Geiser) Philipp.

Richard will be remembered for his dedication, resourcefulness, and the many skills he shared with those around him. He attended Geneva College for three years prior to him serving in the United States Air Force as a Sergeant during the Vietnam War, demonstrating a commitment to service and country.

Following his military service, he went on to work in maintenance for several hotels throughout the surrounding area, earning a reputation as a talented and dependable individual who could fix just about anything. He was a true master of all trades and he had a natural ability to work with his hands and a knack for finding solutions to even the toughest problems.

In his spare time, he found joy in gardening and woodworking, hobbies that reflected his patience, creativity, and love of creating things. Whether tending to his garden, working with wood, or tackling a repair, he took pride in his work and the things he could accomplish.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his siblings: David, Roger, Frieda, Bertha, Lois, Cora, Shirley, and Flora.

Richard is survived by two brothers, Luther (Leatha) Philipp and Ernest (Donna) Philipp, two sisters, Lillian Mittner and Brenda Philipp, as well as numerous nieces, nephews and their families.

All services were private for Richard.

Richard will be laid to rest in the National Cemetery of the Alleghenies, 1158 Morgan Road, Bridgeville.

To plant a memorial tree in memory, please visit the tree store of the J&J Spratt Funeral Home, Inc. by clicking here.

Janet M. (Linko) Yasick (Passed on October 20th, 2026)

Janet M. (Linko) Yasick, 87, affectionately known as “Ja Ja,” of Center Township, passed away on October 20th, 2026. She was a beloved daughter, wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend whose warmth, generosity, and steady presence touched the lives of many.

She was born and raised in West Aliquippa, the daughter of the late Joseph and Helen Linko. She was a proud graduate of Aliquippa High School, Class of 1957, and carried the values of hard work, loyalty, and kindness throughout her life.

On May 23rd, 1959, Janet was united in marriage to Robert J. Yasick, Sr. at St. George Church in West Aliquippa. Together, they shared 43 loving years of marriage until his passing. Their life together was built on devotion, family, and the simple pleasures of everyday life, and Janet treasured the memories they created together.

She was known for her wonderful home cooking and baking. She took great pride in preparing meals that brought people together, and she had a special gift for making everyone who visited feel welcome and cared for. Her home was often filled with the comforting aroma of good food, and she was happiest when she could share something delicious with family and friends. She especially enjoyed making pierogies at St. Titus Catholic Church in Aliquippa alongside her friends, a tradition that reflected both her faith and her love of fellowship.

In addition to her talents in the kitchen, she enjoyed spending time outdoors and keeping active. She faithfully attended Curves for her regular exercise and appreciated the energy and companionship that came with her routine. She was also a member of the Center Township Schools PTA, where she supported her community and took an active interest in the lives of children and families. She was an avid bowler and participated in three bowling leagues. She also served as president of the Gutter Dusters Bowling League. The Bee Gees were her favorite music group, and their songs were among the many things that could brighten her day.

She also gave of herself through volunteer service. She shared her skills as a hairdresser at Aliquippa Hospital and contributed her time to a YMCA childcare project at Hopewell Junior High School.

Family was the center of her life, and she leaves behind a legacy of love that will continue through those who knew and cherished her.

She is survived by her three children, Robert Yasick, Jr. of Center Township, David (Debbie) Yasick of Center Township, and Cheryl (Steve) Scherger of Plum Borough. She was a loving grandmother to Brandon Yasick of Center Township, Britney Yasick of Patterson Township and Eric (Nicole) Scherger of Jeannette. She is also survived by her brothers, James Linko of Baden, Thomas (Barbara) Linko of New Brighton and Dennis (Rosalind) Linko of Largo, Florida.

Friends will be received on Monday, October 26th from 4-7 p.m. at Simpson Funeral & Cremation Services, 1119 Washington Avenue, Monaca, who was in charge of her arrangements, and where prayers will be offered on Tuesday, October 27th at 9:15 a.m. followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 10 a.m. at St Francis Cabrini Catholic Church, 115 Trinity Drive, Aliquippa. Interment will follow in Mt Olivet Catholic Cemetery, 2186 Brodhead Road, Aliquippa.

The family would like to express their appreciation to Cambridge Village, Three Oaks Hospice and Heartland Hospice for the loving care Janet received while under their care.

Those wishing to make a memorial contribution in Janet’s memory is requested to please consider the Beaver County Humane Society, 3394 Brodhead Road, Aliquippa.

To share an online condolence, get directions, or view Janet’s video tribute, please visit www.simpsonfunerahome.com.

Police: 2 men posed as Spark drivers to steal electronics from Cranberry Township Walmart

(File Photo of a Cranberry Township Police Car)

Noah Haswell, Beaver County Radio News

(Cranberry Township, PA) Cranberry Township police recently charged two men from Michigan who are accused of stealing almost $5,000 worth of electronics from the Cranberry Township Walmart by posing as Spark drivers. 

According to police, Darnell Rakestraw and Trey Nunlee pretended to be Walmart Spark drivers on June 30th.

Spark is Walmart’s delivery service which allows drivers to accept curbside pickup orders, handle customer returns and shop inside stores for customers.

Police paperwork confirms that Rakestraw entered the store at around 7 p.m. and picked up two Nintendo Switch consoles and two PlayStation 5 systems.

Police stated that he returned about two hours later and picked up two more Nintendo Switch consoles as well as a Meta Quest virtual reality headset. 

Investigators confirmed that Rakestraw walked to the front of the store and left without paying on both of these occasions. 

Police also affirm that Nunlee arrived about 30 minutes after Rakestraw left the store and picked up two additional PlayStation 5 systems. 

These electronic devices were kept behind lock and key. 

Police noted that Rakestraw and Nunlee were able to gain access to the items that are typically reserved for employees of Walmart by posing as drivers from Spark.

Stephen Daniel “Dan” Lehocky (1955-2026)

Stephen Daniel “Dan” Lehocky, 71, of Monaca, passed away on October 16th, 2026.

He was born in Rochester on September 15th, 1955, a son of the late Steven D. Lehocky, who was a Korean War veteran, and the late Caroline D. Yanko. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his grandson, Stephen Josef Lehocky.

Stephen was a lifelong resident of western Pennsylvania and he found joy in life and left a lasting impression on everyone he came in contact with. He had deep faith in God, and you were always met with a smile, no matter what hardships life placed in front of him. He loved hunting and fishing with his son and had a lifelong passion for cars, motorcycles, history, music, and classic movies.

He is survived by his partner and best friend, Barb (Barbie) Frantz, his three children, Steven Lehocky and his fiancée, Acacia Dragoun, Danielle Lehocky-Nanovic and her husband, Chris Nanovic and Wendy Wolff and her husband, Tim Wolff .He was also the proud grandfather of: Ella Sturges, Mara Sturges, Clara Caroline Sturges, Leo Wolff, and Alexander Wolff. He is also survived by his brother, John (Cindy) Lehocky, his sister, Valerie Montini, and his nephews: Jonathan Lehocky, Danny Montini, and Tony Montini/ He is also survived by his former spouse, Margaret Fulkroad, as well as extended family and friends.

He will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and all those who knew and loved him. His memory will live on through the stories that are told, the music that is played, and the moments his family will continue to remember and share for years to come.

Stephen will be cremated through Simpson Funeral and Cremation Services, 1119 Washington Avenue, Monaca, who was in charge of his arrangements. There will be no viewing for Stephen. However, a memorial service for him will be held at a later date, with details to be announced.

Thomas L. Phillips (Passed on October 16th, 2026)

Thomas L. Phillips, 56, of Monaca, passed away on October 16th, 2026.

He was a son of the late James and Donna Phillips.

He enjoyed hunting and fishing and was a skilled brick layer by trade.

No services are scheduled at this time for Thomas.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Simpson Funeral and Crmeation Services.

Wampum man apprehended after shooting occurs in New Brighton

(File Photo of a Pennsylvania State Police Trooper Car)

Noah Haswell, Beaver County Radio News

(New Brighton, PA) Twenty-six-year-old Benjamin Sanderbeck of Wampum was taken to the Beaver County Jail in connection with a shooting that occurred on Tuesday in New Brighton.

At approximately 2:45 p.m. that day, New Brighton Area Police responded to the area of 5th Avenue and 7th Street for the report of a motorist’s vehicle being hit by gunfire.

Officers determined that a vehicle that was traveling south on 5th Avenue was hit by a single gun shot, that gun shot passed through the vehicle’s passenger compartment off the vehicle, and the shot came from a passing vehicle.

This caused an amount of damages that was undetermined.

There were no reported injuries.

Members of both New Brighton Police and the Pennsylvania State Police New Castle Barracks executed a search warrant yesterday on the suspected vehicle at Sanderbeck’s residence on Newport Road in Wampum.

A subsequent interview led police to file charges against Sanderbeck for criminal mischief, discharging a firearm into an occupied structure, propulsion of missiles into an occupied vehicle, and reckless endangering of another person.

Three adults, two juveniles charged after disturbance during an execution of a search warrant in Aliquippa

(File Photo of a Police Siren Light)

Noah Haswell, Beaver County Radio News

(Aliquippa, PA) Three adults and two juveniles are facing charges after a disturbance during a search warrant execution that occurred on Monday in Aliquippa. 

Aliquippa police confirm that the warrant that was on Irwin Street was connected to an investigation into 21-year-old Ramere Lowe. 

Lowe allegedly brandished a gun and threatened a woman at a local market. 

According to police, this search warrant stemmed from an incident at the Plan 12 Market, which is where Lowe allegedly threatened a female victim. 

That incident followed an altercation on September 29th in which Lowe allegedly pepper-sprayed the same woman, leading to criminal charges. 

Officers executed the warrant at 7:20 p.m. on Monday and several people gathered and became disorderly, and they refused commands to disperse.

Hopewell Township police responded to assist Aliquippa officers at the scene of this incident.

Officers tried to take thirty-seven-year-old Diedra Lee into custody and her juvenile daughter allegedly intervened in the arrest. 

Police state that a juvenile male also caused a disturbance, yelled and obstructed officers after he refused multiple orders to stop and leave the area.

59-year-old Rayetta Lee arrived at the scene during this disturbance and stopped her vehicle in the middle of the roadway, which blocked traffic.

Police state that she exited her vehicle, interfered with officers and yelled during this operation. 

Lowe was charged with intimidation of a victim, retaliation of a victim and simple assault and terroristic threats.

Diedra Lee was charged with disorderly conduct, failure of disorderly persons to disperse and obstruction. 

Rayetta Lee was charged with two counts of disorderly conduct, failure of disorderly persons to disperse, obstruction and obstructing highways. 

Both juveniles face charges of disorderly conduct, failure of disorderly persons to disperse and obstruction. 

Congressman Chris Deluzio Announces $3.6 Million in Federal Grants to Support 15 Western Pennsylvania Fire Departments

(File Photo of Congressman Chris Deluzio)

Noah Haswell, Beaver County Radio News

(Carnegie, PA) Congressman Chris Deluzio (PA-17) announced yesterday that fifteen Western Pennsylvania fire departments are receiving a total of nearly $3.6 million in federal grant funding to support their public safety work. Many of these grant awards were successful following Congressman Deluzio’s office’s direct advocacy for this funding to come to Pennsylvania’s 17th Congressional District. 

The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) provided this funding via the Department of Homeland Security’s Fiscal Year 2025 Assistance to Firefighters (AFG) and Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response (SAFER) grant programs. 

A total of $3,594,533.98 in federal funding is coming to fifteen fire departments in the 17th Congressional District of Pennsylvania.

The majority of this funding awards will help thirteen Western Pennsylvania fire departments by critical equipment, emergency vehicles, protective gear, training, and other resources through the AFG program.

Two other departments will receive close to $1 million to support their firefighter recruitment and retention efforts that are through the SAFER program. 

According to a release from Deluzio’s office, the full list of grant awardees is as follows:

Assistance to Firefighters Grant recipients 

  1. Brighton Township Volunteer Fire Department – $877,695.23 
  1. Community Ambulance Service (Franklin) – $191,013.63 
  1. West Deer Township Volunteer Fire Co. No. 3 – $65,723.80 
  1. Citizens Hose Co. (Natrona Heights) – $95,238.09 
  1. Harrison Hills Volunteer Fire Co. (Natrona Heights) – $30,923.80 
  1. Borough of New Brighton – $869,416.95 
  1. Oakmont Borough – $197,476.19 
  1. Reserve Volunteer Fire Dept. – $35,571.42 
  1. Bellevue Borough – $91,428.57 
  1. Edgewood Volunteer Fire Dept. – $59,771.42 
  1. Seville Volunteer Fire Co (Ross) – $54,772.72 
  1. Neptune Fire Co. No. 1 (Richland) – $29,852.38 
  1. Southern Allegheny Valley Emergency Services (Sharpsburg) – $17,638.90 

Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response (SAFER) Grant recipients 

  1. West View Volunteer Fire Dept. – $550,010.88 
  1. Berkeley Hills Fire Co. (Ross) – $428,000 

Vatican says tests show Pope Leo XIV won’t need further treatment for lung cancer

(File Photo: Source for Photo: Pope Leo XIV thanks the faithful during his weekly general audience in St. Peter’s Square at The Vatican, Wednesday, Oct. 21, 2026. (AP Photo/Gregorio Borgia)

VATICAN CITY (AP) — Pope Leo XIV will need no further treatment for lung cancer after tests confirmed the disease was localized, the Vatican said Wednesday.

Leo, 71, had part of one lung removed last week in the first major health event of his 17-month pontificate. The surgery confirmed he had adenocarcinoma, the most common type of lung cancer. Leo was discharged from Rome’s Gemelli Polyclinic on Saturday, four days after surgery, and said he would gradually resume his activities.

The pope’s personal physician, Dr. Luigi Carbone, and his surgeon, Dr. Stefano Margaritora, said the final tests on tissue removed during the surgery confirmed the diagnosis and that the cancer had not spread.

“A subsequent oncology assessment confirmed that no further treatment is necessary,” the doctors said in a statement.

The pope had the lower section, or lobe, of his right lung removed to try to ensure that all the cancer was removed.

Additional treatment is offered for patients whose cancer has spread, such as into the lymph nodes, or who have certain other signs that their cancer might be particularly aggressive. Surgery often can be enough when tumors are caught very early, such as when someone has an X-ray or other scan that shows a spot long before it’s large or causing symptoms.

The pope appears to have had one of those “incidental findings,” a nodule in his lung spotted during another exam.

In an interview with Vatican News on Saturday, Margaritora, the chief thoracic surgeon at Rome’s Gemelli hospital, confirmed that the nodule was found by chance during routine abdominal examinations, and that the pope had not been experiencing any symptoms.

“The statements suggest that this is a stage I lung cancer for which surgery is highly effective and expected to be curative,” said Dr. Stephen Liu, a lung cancer expert at Georgetown’s Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center. He said the lack of further treatment suggests a relatively small cancer, and that it had not spread to lymph nodes.

The pope carried on business while in the hospital, including a call with Russian President Vladimir Putin, and has appeared strong in two public appearances at the Vatican since his surgery: the traditional Sunday blessing from a window overlooking St. Peter’s Square and Wednesday’s longer audience in the square, greeting the faithful from around the world.

“Thank you! Thank you for the support of your prayers,” Leo said during the audience.

His next major engagement is an ambitious Nov. 6-17 trip to Uruguay, Argentina and Peru.

Margaritora told Vatican News that there was “no clinical reason” to prevent the trip, which includes a dozen flights, two helicopter rides and high altitude stops.

The pope had revealed that a nodule would be surgically removed during the traditional Sunday blessing on Oct. 11, in an unusually transparent disclosure broadcast on live television that broke the tradition of secrecy surrounding papal health issues.

Matzie: More than $600,000 secured to strengthen Beaver County students’ literacy skills

(File Photo of the Top of a School Bus)

Noah Haswell, Beaver County Radio News

(Ambridge, PA) State Representative Rob Matzie announced yesterday that grant funding of nearly $620,000 from the state Department of Education will bolster literacy skills for elementary school students in the Central Valley and Freedom Area school districts.

According to Matzie, this funding, which includes $415,405 to Central Valley School District for the Center Grange Primary and Todd Lane Elementary schools, and $204,160 to the Freedom Area School District for the Freedom Area Elementary School, will give students a stronger start in an essential core curriculum subject. 

The funding comes from the Pennsylvania Structured Literacy Grant program and this program provides funding to help school districts implement the state of Pennsylvania’s structured literacy legislation.

These grants may be used for buying materials, obtaining assessments for screening, developing both plans and literacy systems that are sustainable, and strengthening collaboration districtwide.