Andrew A. “Andy” Toncic, Sr. (1929-2025)

Andrew A. “Andy” Toncic, Sr., 96, a lifelong resident of Midland, passed away peacefully surrounded by family on November 9th, 2025. He was born on July 14, 1929, a son of the late Andrija and Fanika Puc Toncic. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his first wife of 41 years, Lydia Orlando Toncic; his second wife of 21 years, Delores Kane Toncic; his daughter, Regina M. Toncic; his sister, Luby (Thomas) Wuchina; and his brother, Ivan (Beverly) Toncic. He is survived by his loving children: Andrew Jr., John (Lisa) Kane, Vince (Dee) Kane, and Connie (Tom) Kampian. He was a proud and devoted “Pata” to his grandchildren, Tabatha Thomas, John (Kaitlin) Kearney, and Michael Kearney, and to his great-grandchildren, Emersen Patten and Jordyn, Jax, and Jace Kearney. He also leaves behind many beloved nieces, nephews, and extended family members who will miss him dearly.

Andrew leaves behind a legacy of kindness, integrity, and devotion to family and community. He was a graduate of Midland High School, who served as captain of both the football and basketball teams. He was a talented athlete who earned a place on the All-WPIAL second team as a tight end and received a scholarship to Muskingum University. However, in a selfless act of love, he chose to forgo his education to care for his mother and younger brother, Ivan, following his father’s passing. He worked for 17 years as a bartender at the Welcome Café in Midland, but he was best known as a master butcher and the proud owner of Andy’s Market, a cornerstone of the Midland community. Known for his generosity, Andy never let anyone leave his store hungry. To his many great-nieces and nephews, he was affectionately known as “Uncle Candy.” He was a lifelong sports enthusiast who was a mentor and role model to many, especially his brother, Ivan, his son and best friend, Andrew, and his grandsons John and Michael, whom he “coached” both in sports and in life. His tireless work ethic and sense of humor inspired all who knew him, especially his first employees and nieces, Carolyn and Andrea. In retirement, he continued to serve his community as a board member for the Midland Water Authority and as a volunteer usher at Lincoln Park Performing Arts Center. He also remained an active member of St. Augustine Parish and St. Blaise Church in Midland. He never met a stranger. He was known for his warm smile, his trademark “Yeah, man!” greeting, and his unwavering kindness. His presence brought light and laughter to every room, and he will be deeply missed by all who had the good fortune to know him.

Friends will be received on Thursday, November 13th from 2 p.m. until 8 p.m. in the Schwerha-Noll Funeral Home, 629 Midland Avenue, Midland, who was in charge of his arrangements. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Friday, November 14th at 10:30 a.m. at St. Blaise Church, 772 Ohio Ave, Midland. Burial will follow at Beaver Cemetery, Buffalo Street, Beaver. Online condolences may be shared at nollfuneral.com.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in Andy’s name may be made to St. Augustine Parish, St. Blaise Church, 772 Ohio Ave, Midland, PA 15059

“You set an example and a standard so high I’ll never be able to reach it, but for loving you, I’ll never get tired of trying. I have had many coaches and mentors in my life, but none was as great as you. You are my hero.” — Andrew Toncic, Jr.

To order memorial trees or send flowers to the family in memory of Andrew A. “Andy” Toncic, Sr., please visit the flower store of the Noll Funeral Home, Inc.

Mark Allen McCaskey (1964-2025)

Mark Allen McCaskey, 61, of New Brighton, passed away at his home on November 9th, 2025. He was born in New Brighton on October 14th, 1964, a beloved son of the late Earl McCaskey and Margaret (Gray) Young. In addition to his parents, Mark was preceded in death by his son, Joshua McCaskey, brother, Richard E. Young, and sisters, Linda Smith and Catherine McCaskey. He is survived by his father, Richard A. Young, his son, Matthew McCaskey, his brothers, Earl and Daniel McCaskey, his sister, Judy Polachek, his niece, Abigail, his nephew, David and his grandchild, Zachary.

Mark proudly served his country in the United States Army from 1985 to 2005, dedicating twenty years of his life to military service. He was a veteran of the Desert Storm, Afghanistan, and Iraq wars and was known for his courage, loyalty, and unwavering commitment to his fellow soldiers and to the nation he loved. Mark was also a member of the New Brighton American Legion and the Rochester VFW. After retiring from the military, Mark worked as a Government Consultant for two years. He also enjoyed the simple pleasures in life. He was a familiar face at the Giant Eagle in Rochester and the Dollar General on Route 68.

A visitation will be held on Thursday, November 13th, from 2-4 P.M. & 6-8 P.M. at the J&J Spratt Funeral Home, 1612 3rd Avenue, New Brighton,who was in charge of his arrangements. A visitation will also be held on Friday, November 14th from 10 A.M. until the time of service at 11 A.M at St. John’s Burry’s Church, 1835 PA-68, Rochester, and burial will follow at the St. John’s Burry’s Cemetery, 1835 PA-68, Rochester, where the Beaver County Special Unit will provide military honors on Friday, November 14th, at 11:45 A.M.

To order memorial trees or send flowers to the family in memory of Mark Allen McCaskey, please visit the flower store of the J&J Spratt Funeral Home by clicking here.

Sheila Evelyn Cross (Passed on November 5th, 2025)

Sheila Evelyn Cross, 52, of Beaver County, passed away on November 5th, 2025 at Heritage Valley Beaver. She was born in Sewickley, a daughter of the late Debra E. (Lucci) States and David A. States. Her early years were further blessed by the wisdom and affection of her grandparents, Frank A. Lucci, Sr. and Ruby V. Liller Cole, her great-grandmother, Virginia Liller, as well as her beloved son, Issac Cross, all of whom preceded her in passing along with her parents. The love Sheila shared with her family was deep and unyielding. She is survived by her beloved sister, Amanda Cross, and her cherished niece, Hannah Cross.

Though Sheila faced the challenges of disability, she never allowed it to define her. Instead, she will be remembered as a beacon of positivity, always ready with a playful jest or a comforting embrace. Her ability to tease and make those around her smile was unmatched, and her status as a people person was undeniable. Her legacy is one of love, laughter, and the power of human connection.

A Memorial service to celebrate and remember Sheila’s life will be held on Saturday, December 6th at 1 p.m. at the Living Water Family Church, 108 Spruce Drive, Monaca. Arrangements have been entrusted to Simpson Funeral and Cremation Services, 1119 Washington Avenue, Monaca.

Dorothy (Cholak) Lancos (1934-2025)

Dorothy (Cholak) Lancos, 91, passed away peacefully on November 8th, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of unwavering faith and boundless love for her family and friends.

She was born on September 15th, 1934, the daughter of the late John and Mary (Bacha) Cholak. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Andy Lancos, Sr., her grandson, Andy “Gucci” Lancos III and her sister and brother-in-law, Mary Ann (Joseph) Sopko. She is survived by three devoted children and their spouses: Andy and Carol Lancos, Jr., The Honorable Deborah Lancos DeCostro and her husband, Ron DeCostro, and Linda and Ben Koda II. She treasured her grandchildren: Andria (William) Coble, Jr., Sheela (Michael) Miller, Kayla (Matthew) Edgar and Jonathan DeCostro. She was also blessed with four great grandchildren who she adored: Ily Grace Coble, Brynnley “Princess” Edgar, Giovanni Otlowski and Everley “Sunshine” Edgar and is also survived by numerous nieces, nephews and many dear friends.

Dorothy was a member of Mary Queen of Saints Parish, St. Frances Cabrini Church and the Confraternity of Christian Mothers. She was a woman devoted to God, attending church regularly and praying faithfully throughout her life. Her spiritual commitment was evident in her gentle words, compassionate heart and steadfast devotion. She cherished every moment spent with her family, especially during their vacations together. Whether it was a trip to a new destination or a simple family gathering, she found immense joy in creating lasting memories with those she loved most. She spoiled her family with her famous homemade stuffed cabbage and chicken soup. Her warmth and laughter brightened every occasion, and her presence was a source of comfort and happiness. She also found delight in the simple pleasures of life. She relished a good shopping trip, always on the lookout for the perfect find, and her eyes sparkled with excitement when she boarded a ship to take a cruise or saw the ocean. Many fond memories were made playing bingo or cards and solving puzzles alongside family and friends. These moments were filled with laughter, friendly competition, and a shared sense of togetherness.

A visitation will be held on Wednesday, November 12th from 3-7 p.m. at the Anthony Mastrofrancesco Funeral Home Inc., 2026 McMinn Street, Aliquippa, who was in charge of her arrangements, and where departing prayers will begin on Thursday, November 13th at 10:15 a.m., followed by a Mass of Christian burial at 11 a.m. at St. Frances Cabrini Church, 115 Trinity Drive, Aliquippa. Interment will follow at Mt. Olivet Cemetery, 2186 Brodhead Road, Aliquippa.

The Lancos family expresses their sincere appreciation to Dr. Heinle, Dr. Tapyrik, and Three Oaks Hospice for the dedicated and considerate care provided to Dorothy and her family.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly asks that donations be made in memory of Dorothy to Penn State THON.

She will be deeply missed by all who have had the privilege to know her. May her life continue to inspire faithfulness, togetherness, and the celebration of life’s simple joys. You will always remain in our hearts, we love you. To send flowers or a memorial gift to the family of Dorothy (Cholak) Lancos, please visit the Sympathy Store of the Anthony Mastrofrancesco Funeral Home, Inc by clicking here.

Elaine D. Poliziani (1947-2025)

Elaine D. Poliziani, 77, of Moon Township, passed away on November 8th, 2025 in St. Clair Hospital in Pittsburgh. She was born in Aliquippa on November 24th, 1947, a daughter of the late Mary and Steve Domitrovich. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her two sisters, Nancy Richards and Mitzi Lapcevich. She is survived by her husband, Bill Poliziani, her daughter and son-in-law, Angela and Nick DeCecco, her grandchildren, Sophia and Nicholas and her nieces and nephews: Ron Richards, Krissy Schoelkopf, Renee Desper, Linda Wilamowski, Nick Lapson and Robin Lapcevich.

Elaine was a graduate of Penn State University, with a degree in accounting. This lead her to own and operate her own business, Poliziani Accounting and Tax Services. She was a longtime member of the Moon Township Garden Club, where she helped publish the newsletter for years. She liked to stay active working, and the hours that she spent at her computer crunching numbers were amazing. She loved to, and she was not shy to, give anyone her advice. She enjoyed traveling with her husband for many years. Elaine was a member of Impact Christian Church in Moon Township, as her faith was very important. She was a Sunday School Teacher and loved participating in the Women’s Bible Study Group.  She also found great joy in entertaining.  Cooking and having people over to her home were some of her favorite times.

Friends will be received on Wednesday, November 12th from 2-4 p.m. and 6-8 p.m. in Huntsman Funeral Home and Cremation Services of Moon Township, who was in charge of her arrangements, and where a funeral service will be held on Thursday, November 13th at 10 a.m.

Interment will follow in Mt. Olivet Catholic Cemetery, 2186 Brodhead Road, Aliquippa.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Moon Township Garden Club, the Food Pantry at Sharron Presbyterian Church, 522 Carnot Road, Moon Township, PA 15108, the American Heart Association, and Impact Christian Church, 330 Hookstown Grade Road, Moon Township, PA 15108

Lydia J. (Piroli) Palombo (1922-2025)

Lydia J. (Piroli) Palombo, 103, formerly of Aliquippa, passed away peacefully at her home in Southold, New York, on November 7th, 2025. She was born in Aliquippa on August 7th, 1922, a daughter of the late Oreste and Concetta Piroli.
In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Arthur (Larry) Palombo, her sister, Olga Matakovich and her brothers, William Piroli, Dr. Duilio D. Piroli, and Gino Piroli. She is survived by her two children, Elaine White of Southold, New York, and Joseph Palombo (and his husband, Paul Redmond Jr.) of Atkinson, New Hampshire, her four grandchildren, four great-grandchildren and many loving nieces, nephews and godchildren.
Lydia was a dedicated employee of the Aliquippa School District, retiring as the superintendent’s secretary. She was a member of Mary Queen of Saints Parish, and St. Titus Church in Aliquippa, where she also volunteered and served as an officer of the Confraternity of Christian Mothers. She will be remembered by her loved ones and friends as a genuine and kind lady, and was an inspiration to many for her intelligence, broad cultural interests, accepting nature, and the wonderful friendships and connections she established and nurtured her entire 103 years.
Private Interment will be at Mt. Olivet Cemetery, 2186 Broadhead Road, Aliquippa. Arrangements have been entrusted to the Anthony Mastrofrancesco Funeral Home, Inc., 2026 McMinn Street, Aliquippa.
Lydia was a passionate reader and requested that any donations in her memory be made to the B.F. Jones Memorial Library, 663 Franklin Avenue, Aliquippa, PA 15001. (https://www.beaverlibraries.org/libraries/aliquippa). To send flowers or a memorial gift to the family of Lydia J. (Piroli) Palombo, please visit the Sympathy Store of the Anthony Mastrofrancesco Funeral Home, Inc. by clicking here.

Geneva College head basketball coach Jeff Santarsiero to retire after the 2025-2026 college basketball season

(Photo of Jeff Santarsiero Courtesy of Kevin Cooke, Picture Posted on Geneva College’s Athletics Website on November 10th, 2025)

Noah Haswell, Beaver County Radio News

(Beaver Falls, PA) Geneva College’s head college basketball coach Jeff Santarsiero has recently decided that he will retire after the 2025-2026 college basketball season. Santarsiero has the most wins in Geneva College basketball history at 403 going into his 30th season, and he has been the head basketball coach of the Golden Tornadoes since 1996. Santarsiero also served as a Geneva College college basketball assistant coach starting in 1988 until he became their head college basketball coach in 1996. Among his accomplishments there are helping Geneva College win the Presidents’ Athletic Conference title in 2024. In 2013, Santarsiero was inducted into the National Christian College Athletic Association (NCCAA) Hall of Fame. Santarsiero is also a member of the Nyack College Athletic Hall of Fame. Nyack College is also the alma mater of Santarsiero, who started his coaching career coaching there as the head coach for the Nyack College women’s college basketball team before starting his two coaching positions at Geneva College. Geneva College will go through a national search for their next head college basketball coach after the 2025-2026 college basketball season ends. 

New York man in custody for allegedly attempting to derail train by placing tractor-trailer on railroad tracks in Springdale

(File Photo of Handcuffs)

Noah Haswell, Beaver County Radio News

(Springdale, PA) Thirty-four-year-old Scott Heffner of Friendship, New York is now facing multiple felony charges after a tractor-trailer was moved across the railroad tracks in Springdale and another truck was along the side of the tracks. According to a criminal complaint, the incident happened last Monday on November 3rd, a little before 6 a.m. Heffner admitted to moving the vehicles involved in this incident and in the description of the charge of causing or risking a catasrophe that Heffner is facing, police said he was “attempting to derail a train in a residential area.” Heffner is being held in the Allegheny County Jail as of early yesterday morning. 

Links For Beaver County Radio Audio and Video Stream Of Today’s Veterans Day Parade

(File Photo of the 2024 Parade in Beaver. taken by Frank Sparks)

(Brighton Twp., Pa.) Beaver County Radio will be broadcasting today’s Veteran’s Day Parade from downtown Beaver. The Parade will start at 10:30 AM and will also be vidoeo streamed on the Beaver County Radio Facebook Page and Youtube Channel . Beaver County Radio’s Frank Sparks, Curtis Walsh, and Scott Tady will have live coverage on Beaver County Radio  and BCR streaming outlets starting at 10:10 AM Courtesy of our presenting sponsor Moon Township Ford.

Coverage of today’s Veterans Day parade is presented by Moon Township Ford, “Where Friends Send Friends”, and is also  brought to by The Hangar, William Murphy Funeral Home, J. Young Refuse, Luanne’s Route 68, 1st Consultants, J&jJ Spratt Funeral Home, CJ Rombold Engine Builders, Al’s Corner, St. Barnabas Health System, Munroe Auto Body, 68’s Feed Mill, S.E. Snyder Insurance, Mc Gee Heating and AC, Alvarez -Hahn Funeral Home and Cremation Services, Our Lady of the Valley Catholic Parish, The Beaver Valley Choral Society, Rochester Smokehouse,  and Beaver County Radio. 

The Beaver County Veteran’s Day Parade will also be presented via Facebook Live on the Beaver County Radio Facebook Page. Just Click the link below at 10:10AM:

If you can’t tune in you can click the link below to listen on-line via beavercountyradio.com:

You can also down load our free apps:

Shapiro Administration Expands Artificial Intelligence Collaboration with Carnegie Mellon University, Solidifying Pennsylvania as a National Leader in Safe and Responsible AI

(Photo Provided with Release Courtesy of the Pennsylvania Office of Administration)

Noah Haswell, Beaver County Radio News

(Pittsburgh, PA) According to a release from the Pennsylvania Office of Administration in Pittsburgh yesterday, nearly two years after tapping Carnegie Mellon University (CMU) to provide expertise and support to the Commonwealth for AI governance, the Shapiro Administration returned to CMU yesterday to announce a new agreement that will expand collaboration on AI policy, strategy, and implementation. This occurred at yesterday’s Unlocking AI for Public Good conference co-hosted by CMU and the Office of Governor Josh Shapiro as the Cooperative Agreement for Artificial Intelligence Advising Services was revealed, underscoring the commitment that Pennsylvania has to use AI effectively and responsibly to improve government operations and deliver Pennsylvanians faster and better service.