Author: Beaver County Radio

Bud G. Gingerella III (1960-2026)

Bud G. Gingerella III, 66, of Freedom, passed away on April 8, 2026. He was the beloved son of the late Sonia and Bud Gingerella Jr.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his sisters, Barb Hoffman and Helen Gingerella.

He is survived by his devoted wife of 25 years, Heidi Gingerella; his children, Ben (Cara) Gingerella, Brittany Gingerella, Brett Gingerella, Bradon Gingerella, Dawson Gingerella, and Dakota Gingerella; and his siblings, Fran Troutman and Georgann Keener.

Bud was a proud graduate of Western Beaver High School. He later attended optician school and dedicated many years of service to Eye Glass World. His true passion, however, was music. He owned and operated S&B Karaoke, where he was affectionately known as “Bud Man.” He also enjoyed playing poker and was an avid fan of Pittsburgh sports. Bud had a special affection for animals, especially his beloved squirrel, Sammy.

He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

Services are private.

Charles M. “Mike” Hurst (1950-2026)

Charles Michael “Mike” Hurst, 76, of Chippewa Township, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, April 8, 2026, at Celebration Villa of Chippewa.
Born on March 21, 1950, he was the son of the late Charles Richard and Patricia Katherine (Huth) Hurst.
Mike’s dedication to law enforcement spanned over forty years, beginning with his service in the U.S. Border Patrol. He later returned to Beaver County, where he married Cindy and they started their family. He eventually retired from both the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission and the Beaver County Sheriff’s Office after over thirty-five years of service. During his tenure at the Sheriff’s Office, he served with distinction and integrity, ultimately holding the rank of sergeant at his retirement. His professionalism and leadership have earned respect from colleagues and community members. Prior to becoming a sergeant, he served as a captain in the Sheriff’s Office and graduated from in the 178th session of the FBI National Academy, showing his dedication to law enforcement.
His career was marked by significant contributions to law enforcement and community safety. Mike valued his family life beyond work, frequently taking his grandchildren on camping trips similar to those he shared with his wife and children. He loved the outdoors and would not let his family opt out of any of the multiple long- distance hikes during every camping adventure. His family vacations always
included even longer walks through historic battlefields. Mike’s life was characterized by a deep commitment to his profession, family, and outdoors, leaving a legacy of service and dedication. Both he and his wife will be deeply missed by their children and grandchildren.
He was a member of St. Monica Church of St. Augustine Parish, a life member of the Beaver Valley Chiefs of Police Association, and various other Fraternal Orders of Police.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife of 48 years, Cynthia Jo Hurst, on January 10, 2026. He is survived by his children, Sherri (Scott) Hurst and Charles “Chuck” Hurst; grandchildren, Talia, Cole, Charolotte, and Olivia; sister, Paula (Mitch) Reid; brother, Timothy (Tammy) Hurst; as well as numerous nieces, nephews, and friends.
In accordance with Mike’s wishes, there will be no visitation.
All are welcome to attend a Memorial Mass of Christian Burial at St. Monica Church of St. Augustine Parish, 116 Thorndale Dr., Beaver Falls, PA 15010, on Thursday, April 16th at 10AM with Fr. Kim Schreck as celebrant.
Inurnment will follow in Beaver Cemetery alongside his wife.
Mike’s family respectfully requests in lieu of flowers and other sympathy expressions, memorial contributions be directed to Beaver Valley Chiefs of Police Association, c/o 104 Jessica Ct., Beaver Falls, PA 15010, or Columbiana Project Playground, https://playatfirestone.com/donate-now.
The family sincerely thanks Mike’s brothers and sisters in law enforcement for their unwavering support for his family, along with the compassionate staff at Celebration Villa and Gateway Hospice. Their dedicated care and kindness provided comfort during this challenging time.
The GABAUER-LUTTON FUNERAL HOME & CREMATION SERVICES, INC., Chippewa Township, 117 Blackhawk Road, Beaver Falls, PA 15010, was honored to care for Mike and his family during this time.

Home catches fire in South Beaver Township

Beaver County Radio News Staff. Published April 10, 2026 7:28 A.M.

(South Beaver Township, Pa) Just before midnight Thursday, the Chippewa Township Fire Department says they were dispatched to a reported structure fire on Lapeer Drive in South Beaver Township, alongside South Beaver Township Fire Department and Darlington Township Fire Department.

Upon arrival, crews confirmed a working fire and called in additional surrounding departments to fight the fire that was in a residential home.

We have no further details at this time.

PennDOT Urges Work Zone Safety, Distracted Driving Awareness

Pittsburgh, PA – The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) held a media event to discuss work zone safety and the $19.85 million Route 51 (Clairton Boulevard) Coal Valley Road to Lebanon Church Road Interchange project as the construction season kicks off.

While construction work occurs year-round in District 11, the major construction season has begun, and drivers should expect to see construction pick up in the greater Pittsburgh region. The department reminds drivers to remain cautious when traveling through work zones, not only for the safety of the workers, but for their own safety as well.

Drivers cited by police for driving 11 mph or more above the posted speed limit in active work zones will automatically lose their license for 15 days per state law. Fines for certain traffic violations, including speeding, driving under the influence, and failure to obey traffic devices are doubled for active work zones. Drivers can also receive up to five years of additional jail time if convicted of homicide by vehicle for a crash that occurred in an active work zone.

PennDOT District 11 Executive Jason Zang discussed the many challenges of keeping work zones safe for everyone and how the motoring public can work together with PennDOT to achieve this goal. He also reminded drivers to slow down and avoid distractions when behind the wheel. This comes as April marks National Distracted Driving Awareness Month.

According to PennDOT data, in 2024 there were 1,250 work zone crashes, resulting in 22 fatalities statewide.

Phase 2 road closures announced for 2026 NFL Draft

PITTSBURGH, PA — The Pittsburgh Local Organizing Committee, in partnership with PennDOT, Allegheny County, the City of Pittsburgh, and Pittsburgh Regional Transit (PRT), today announced Phase 2 road closures and traffic modifications in advance of the 2026 NFL Draft presented by Bud Light, taking place April 23–25, 2026.
As preparations accelerate for the city’s largest sporting event ever hosted—expected to draw hundreds of thousands of visitors—these closures represent the next step in transforming Downtown and the North Shore into a safe, walkable, and fan-friendly Draft campus.
“Hosting the NFL Draft is a once-in-a-generation opportunity for Pittsburgh, and we’re committed to ensuring both residents and visitors can experience it with ease,” said Jerad Bachar, President and CEO of VisitPITTSBURGH. “By pairing thoughtful planning with free, accessible transit options, we’re making it simple for everyone to be part of this moment while keeping our city moving.”
Phase 2 Road Closures
Phase 2 closures will be in effect from April 13 through April 21 and include the following roads—in addition to all previously announced Phase 1 closures:
  • Casino Drive (from Sproat Way)
  • North Shore Drive (to Chuck Noll Way)
  • Reedsdale Street (to Tony Dorsett Drive)
  • Chuck Noll Way
  • Tony Dorsett Drive
  • I-279 Southbound Exit 1B ramp to Reedsdale Street
  • Reedsdale Underpass

Built in Beaver County: Sharpless takes women’s soccer reins at Penn State Beaver

MONACA, Pa. — Penn State Beaver Athletics announced the hiring of Sam Sharpless as the new head coach of the women’s soccer program.

A Beaver County native and Penn State Beaver alumnus, Sharpless brings a strong blend of local ties, collegiate experience and a passion for student-athlete development to the role.

Sharpless is a graduate of Freedom High School who continued his academic and athletic career at Penn State Beaver, where he earned his bachelor’s degree in marketing and management. He then completed a master’s degree in higher education administration from Louisiana State University.

“I’m excited to come in and rebuild a program that has the capacity to compete for championships under the right circumstances,” Sharpless said. “Being an alumnus myself, there is a lot of passion and pride that I have for Penn State Beaver athletics, and I want to see this team thrive on and off the pitch.”

Sharpless brings a diverse coaching background to the position. He currently serves as the head coach of the Ellwood City High School boys/co-ed soccer team, a role he has held since 2024. Prior to that, he spent two seasons as the goalkeeper coach for North Catholic High School’s girls’ program and four years as the goalkeeper coach for the Penn State Beaver men’s soccer team.

As a player, Sharpless competed for four years at Freedom High School before continuing his career at Penn State Beaver, where he was a four-year member of the men’s soccer program. He also gained experience at the semi-professional level, playing three years in the United Premier Soccer League (UPSL) with Pittsburgh City United.

In addition to his coaching responsibilities, Sharpless currently works at the Community College of Beaver County (CCBC) as an office and compliance manager in Human Resources. He previously served as an enrollment team lead at CCBC through 2024, further demonstrating his commitment to student success both inside and outside of athletics.

“I want to give young players the opportunity to thrive in both school and sport,” Sharpless added. “I truly believe Penn State Beaver can offer a lot to potential student-athletes, and I’m excited to help build something special here.”

Penn State Beaver Director of Athletics Andy Kirschner said the program’s new leadership under Sharpless is poised to lead the team into an exciting new era.

“We are thrilled to welcome Sam back to Penn State Beaver as our head women’s soccer coach,” Kirschner said. “His connection to this campus, combined with his coaching experience and passion for student-athlete development, makes him a tremendous fit. We’re excited about the direction of the program under his leadership and look forward to what the future holds.”

Last Dinner Party serves a tasty night of rock in Pittsburgh

SCOTT TADY

PITTSBURGH — Twirls, frills, sharp lyrics, pretty vocals and potent guitar.

That recipe, from The Last Dinner Party, stirred up a tasty night of alternative-rock Wednesday at a jam-packed Stage AE.

The youthful crowd numbered a few dozen fans in not-quite-cosplay, yet goth-Victorian-inspired attire, reflecting the Last Dinner Party’s visual vibes.

The female-powered English band, in its Pittsburgh debut, connected immediately with the audience, led by frontwoman Abigail Morris’, in a long black dress, commanding attention with her lovely singing and graceful stage spins with ballerina-like arm stretches.

The Last Dinner Party at Stage AE. (Photo by Scott Tady)

To her right stood Emily Roberts, who proved to be a powerhouse on electric guitar.

Roberts’ rapid mandolin strumming elevated to epic level “I Hold Your Anger,” a song with forceful percussion, intricate time changes and the emotional lead vocals of keyboardist  Aurora “Rora” Nishevci, who introduced the ambitious song by saying it reminded her of Albanian folk music. Imagine if The Tamburitzans tried prog-rock.

Nishevci said the “I Hold Your Anger” lyrics have taken on a wider meaning amid the current political landscape, asking the crowd to consider her personal view as a foreigner that one of the most beautiful things about America is its long-standing embrace of immigration. It’s important and enriching to explore other cultures, she said.

The Last Dinner Party at Stage AE. (Photo by Scott Tady)

Earlier in the show, Morris thoroughly enjoyed immersing herself in western Pennsylvania culture when she said hello to all the “Pittsburgh-ians” there, then asked if there was a more common term to describe the locals.

Cue a lesson on the word “Yinzer.”

Hearing the crowd collectively yelling that unfamiliar Y word, a perplexed Morris handed her microphone to a front-row fan for elaboration.  That female fan did a spot-on job explaining the origins of “yinzer”.

Two songs later, a laughing Morris circled back, and asked for more details on the word “yinzer.”

“What’s the etymology?” she wondered, ultimately concluding yinzer must stem from Scottish or Irish roots.

The Last Dinner Party at Stage AE. (Photo by Scott Tady)

She harbored an even deeper fascination with Pittsburgh, through the lens of one of its native sons, noting how it’s the birthplace of Andy Warhol. Since the age of 15, Morris has carried in her wallet a small photo of Warhol taken in Andy’s high school days — when he was still a “Warhola.” Morris credited her Warhol obsession not so much for his soup can and Marilyn Monroe pop art, but his aloof and entertaining style when interviewed — a style she’d try to impersonate as a teenager to the chagrin of her mom.

The breezy stage banter added to Wednesday’s fun, but musicality carried the night, as The Last Dinner Party straight-up rocked in a way that transcended their image as a baroque art-pop act.

There was a sweeping elegance with a lyrical bite to “The Feminine Urge,” a song Morris has said references the pressures put upon women to conform to roles. An almost metal textural punch of drums and bass supplied the ammo to “Rifles.”

“Sinner” featured keytar, because why not?

The set opener “Agnus Dei” brought enchanting four-part vocal harmony.

The quintet was minus bassist Georgia Davies, who’s recovering from a back injury. The fill-in bassist performed admirably.

The Last Dinner Party at Stage AE. (Photo by Scott Tady)

The band’s pre-encore song pick, “Nothing Matters,” presented the irresistible chance for fans to sing along gleefully to The Last Dinner Party’s 2023 breakout hit complete with languid melody and laden with the queen mother of dirty words.

A total delight live in concert.

Here’s hoping the Last Dinner Party returns to Pittsburgh again and again.

The Last Dinner Party at Stage AE. (Photo by Scott Tady)

 

 

Shapiro and America250PA Announce ‘Commonwealth Concert Series’

Harrisburg, PA – Today, Governor Josh Shapiro and America250PA announced the lineup for the Commonwealth Concert Series, a free, five-city concert tour celebrating Pennsylvania’s historical significance as the birthplace of the nation.

 

The tour will run from May 23 through June 27 with performances by Lady A, Nelly, The Avett Brothers, Third Eye Blind and more. The series will make stops in State College, Erie, Hershey, Wilkes-Barre, and Pittsburgh and is free to attend, giving all Pennsylvanians the chance to celebrate.

 

“America’s story started right here in our Commonwealth and Pennsylvanians have played a key role in shaping our nation. My Administration is committed to ensuring everyone can take part in celebrating our history – and this concert series will bring together Pennsylvanians from all across the Commonwealth, giving them an opportunity to celebrate America’s 250th Birthday,” said Governor Shapiro. “I’m proud that we secured funds in the 2025-26 budget to put on these free concerts – and I’m confident the Commonwealth is ready to put on a once-in-a-lifetime show.”

 

Last week, Governor Shapiro announced $675,000 to support the Commonwealth Concert Series through the Marketing to Attract Marquis Events (MTAME) program, working across the aisle to secure $50 million in his 2025-26 budget to establish the program. MTAME offers grants that can support operations, security, event infrastructure, shuttle and transportation systems, community engagement, programming, marketing, talent, and other essential costs related to executing these events.

 

“Pennsylvania’s deep-rooted cultural history and national significance will be on full display this year as we celebrate 250 years of America ― a tremendous opportunity for the Commonwealth,” said Department of Community and Economic Development Secretary Rick Siger. “Millions of visitors are expected to visit Pennsylvania this year to attend events like the NFL Draft, PGA Championship, and FIFA World Cup—providing a huge boost to our tourism and hospitality industry. The Commonwealth Concert Series adds to this great lineup of events that will fuel Pennsylvania’s economy and strengthen our communities.”

 

Pennsylvania is set to be the epicenter of some of the biggest events this year, as the Commonwealth celebrates the semi-quincentennial of American independence and democracy. Pennsylvania will welcome a major slate of events honoring our shared cultural heritage and history including the NFL Draft, PGA Championship, FIFA World Cup, America250PA, and MLB All-Star Game, alongside the Commonwealth Concert Series.

 

The concert series, joined by the other national events, is an opportunity to showcase Pennsylvania’s hospitality, diversity, and communities. Together, these events are expected to bring millions of people from across the nation, boosting local economies and demonstrating why Pennsylvania is the “Great American Getaway.”

 

“Pennsylvania is the Keystone State for a reason,” said Cassandra Coleman, Executive Director of America250PA. “Our role in the founding of this nation is unmatched. The Commonwealth Concert Series honors that legacy by bringing people together in communities across Pennsylvania to celebrate a shared pride in who we are and where we come from. We are thrilled to welcome world-class artists for this series, and we cannot wait to share this moment with our neighbors across the Commonwealth this summer.”

 

Commonwealth Concert Series Tour Schedule

 

Saturday, May 23: Bryce Jordan Center, State College

●      Performers include Cole Swindell (headliner), Gabby Barrett, and the Benny Havens Military Band.

 

Saturday, June 6: Erie Insurance Arena, Erie

●      Performers include The Fray (headliner), and First to Eleven.

 

Saturday, June 13: Hershey Park Stadium, Hershey

●      Performers include The Avett Brothers (headliner).

 

Saturday, June 20: Kirby Park, Wilkes-Barre

●      Performers include Lady A (headliner), and En Vogue.

 

Saturday, June 27: Point State Park, Pittsburgh

●      Performers include Nelly (co-headliner), and Third Eye Blind (co-headliner).

 

Additional supporting artists will be announced on a rolling basis. Attendees will be required to have a free ticket for admission to the events and are encouraged to visit America250PA.org to sign up for email alerts regarding ticket release dates.

 

Sam M. Presutti (1962 – 2026)

Sam M. Presutti, 64, passed away unexpectedly at his home from a pulmonary embolism. Born January 13, 1962, he was the son of the late Sam C. and Maryann Presutti. He was a graduate of Western beaver high school in 1980.

Upon graduation he travelled and lived in Texas, Arizona, and Hawaii. He was a true craftsman, hardworking, building homes including multimillion dollar homes all over the country. Upon returning home to be close to his family he worked as a contractor with Presutti Construction the family business, remodeling & building many homes including his own.

He was a warm-hearted and deeply loving brother and friend to many. Though a man of few words, his kindness spoke volumes, and his loving spirit and big heart touched everyone who knew him.

He was a true outdoorsman, a great marksman, he loved to hunt all game especially rattlesnake hunting. He was also an expert mushroom hunter! He loved bear and deer hunting for many years with his dad and brother at our family camp in Dents Run, Elk County.

Along with his parents, he is preceded in death by his brother, Ted Presutti.

He is survived by his son Sam J. Presutti (Geneva) of Tennessee, and grandson Holston, and his 3 sisters, Lana (Jim) Celender, Pittsburgh, Michelle Presutti, Ohioville and Pamela Gomez, Stafford, VA; as well as many loving nieces and nephews. Sam was loved so very much by his entire family and will be terribly missed. Per his wishes there will be no services.

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

Nick Castellanos’ two-run double, Jake Cronenworth’s homer spark Padres over Pirates 8-2

(File Photo: Source for Photo: San Diego Padres’ Jake Cronenworth, left, is greeted by Nick Castellanos (21) after hitting a two-run home run off Pittsburgh Pirates pitcher Justin Lawrence during the seventh inning of a baseball game in Pittsburgh, Wednesday, April 8, 2026. (AP Photo/Gene J. Puskar)

PITTSBURGH (AP) — Nick Castellanos hit a two-run double, Jake Cronenworth added a two-run homer and the San Diego Padres beat the Pittsburgh Pirates 8-2 on Wednesday.

Castellanos’ double began a four-run seventh inning that broke open a scoreless game and helped San Diego clinch the three-game series.

Michael King (1-1) allowed two runs on four hits over six innings while striking out four and walking three for San Diego. Justin Lawrence (0-1) took the loss after giving up four runs on three hits in one inning for Pittsburgh.

The game remained scoreless through six innings as Mitch Keller and King matched each other early. Keller worked six scoreless frames, allowing three hits and striking out four, while King limited Pittsburgh to two hits through the first six innings.

San Diego broke through in the seventh after Xander Bogaerts reached on a throwing error and Miguel Andujar doubled to put runners at second and third. Castellanos followed with a double to left field that scored both runners and gave the Padres a 2-0 lead.

Luis Campusano grounded out before Cronenworth lined a two-run homer to right-center field, stretching the lead to 4-0.

Pittsburgh answered in the bottom half. Nick Yorke singled and Nick Gonzales doubled to start the inning before Konnor Griffin hit a sacrifice fly to score Yorke. Joey Bart later added an RBI single that cut the deficit to 4-2.

The Padres pulled away in the ninth, though, as Campusano doubled home Bryce Johnson. Fernando Tatis Jr. added an RBI single and Jackson Merrill drove in a run on a fielder’s choice before Merrill stole second and Tatis stole home to make it 8-2.

Kyle Hart and Jeremiah Estrada each worked scoreless relief innings before Mason Miller struck out two in a perfect ninth. Miller extended the longest active scoreless streak in the majors to 26 2/3 innings.

Earlier Wednesday, the Pirates announced they signed Griffin to a nine-year contract worth at least $140 million.

Up next

RHP Carmen Mlodzinski (0-0, 4.00 ERA) opens the series against the Cubs on Friday for the Pirates, while RHP Randy Vásquez (1-0, 0.75 ERA) takes the mound for the Padres against the Rockies.