Author: Beaver County Radio

AAA shares fall travel trends and top destinations for Post-Summer and Pre-Holidays

If there’s ever a time of year to hit the open road or jet off to a bucket list destination, it’s now! In many parts of the U.S., temperatures are dipping, and leaves are changing, creating the perfect conditions for a picturesque fall getaway. Autumn is also an ideal time to travel internationally, especially to Europe, when it’s less busy than summer.

“With milder weather and fewer crowds, this is the perfect time of year to plan a special getaway,” said Bevi Powell, senior vice president, AAA East Central. “More people are flying both domestically and internationally this season, and many travelers are taking this opportunity to enjoy the fall foliage in places like Alaska and New England.”

AAA’s Top Fall Destinations

Domestic

International

Orlando

Rome

Boston

Paris

Seattle

London

Denver

Vancouver

Las Vegas

Dublin

New York City

Athens

Los Angeles

Barcelona

Fort Lauderdale

Amsterdam

Honolulu

Venice

Atlanta

Lisbon

 

According to AAA booking data, flights and cruises are the two travel categories that are seeing increased demand compared to last year. Domestic flights are up 1%, and international flights are up 3%. Travelers are paying about the same as they did last fall. The average domestic roundtrip ticket is $660, and the average international roundtrip ticket is $1,315. Domestic cruise bookings are up 19% over last fall, and international cruise bookings are up 6%. The average cost of a cruise from a domestic city is similar to last fall – $2,355 – while the average cost of an international cruise is up 1% to $3,560.

Travelers headed on fall road trips are finding lower pump prices than last year. Gas prices have decreased since late July, partly thanks to a relatively quiet Atlantic hurricane season. This is also the time of year when stations switch to winter-blend gasoline, which is cheaper to produce. Drivers renting cars for their autumn adventures are also finding better rates. The cost to rent a vehicle domestically is down 5% this fall and down 15% for international car rentals. Hertz, AAA’s car rental partner, says cities with the most increased demand this summer would make ideal fall trips include Boston, Denver, Portland (Maine and Oregon!), Montreal, and Vancouver – all top leaf-color-viewing destinations!

For travelers looking for last-minute getaways, Trip Canvas—AAA’s free travel planning site—offers inspiration and ideas for memorable fall escapes.

Deluzio Announces $750,000 Grant for Veteran Suicide Prevention Work in Western PA

CARNEGIE, PA — Today, Navy and Iraq War veteran Congressman Chris Deluzio (PA-17) announced a $750,000 grant for the Veterans Leadership Program of Western Pennsylvania, Inc. to conduct veteran suicide prevention work across Western Pennsylvania. This grant comes from the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Staff Sergeant Parker Gordon Fox Suicide Prevention Grant Program (SSG Fox SPGP). 

The Veterans Leadership Program of Western Pennsylvania, Inc. award of $750,000 will go towards its veterans suicide prevention work in: Allegheny, Armstrong, Beaver, Bedford, Blair, Butler, Cambria, Centre, Clarion, Clearfield, Crawford, Erie, Fayette, Forest, Fulton, Greene, Huntingdon, Indiana, Jefferson, Lawrence, McKean, Mercer, Somerset, Venango, Warren, Washington, and Westmoreland Counties. 

“This country has a solemn duty to stand up for the people who served in uniform—and that includes doing all we can to fight back against America’s veteran suicide crisis,” said Congressman Deluzio. “I am glad that more funds are coming to support my fellow veterans here in Western Pennsylvania. It is through investments like this one, community support, and policy changes in Congress and the VA that we can help save the lives of our nation’s veterans.” 

The Staff Sergeant Parker Gordon Fox Suicide Prevention Grant Program (SSG Fox SPGP) is a VA grant program to give resources toward community-based suicide prevention efforts to support veterans and their families through outreach, suicide prevention services, and connection to VA and community resources. Working in alignment with the VA’s National Strategy for Preventing Veteran Suicide (2018), this grant program assists in further implementing a public health approach that blends community-based prevention with evidence-based clinical strategies through community efforts. 

Congress has allocated $174 million for the SSG Fox SPGP, a three-year community-based grant program serving veterans and their families across the country. Organizations can apply for grants worth up to $750,000 and grants will be awarded to organizations that provide or coordinate suicide prevention services for eligible individuals at risk of suicide and their families that qualify, including: 

  • Outreach to identify those at risk of suicide 
  • Baseline mental health screening for risk (required of all grantees for participants ages 18+) 
  • Education on suicide risk and prevention to families and communities 
  • Provision of clinical services for emergency treatment 
  • Case management services 
  • Peer support services 
  • VA benefits assistance for eligible individuals and their families 
  • Assistance with obtaining and coordinating other benefits provided by the federal government, a state or local government, or an eligible entity 
  • Assistance with emergent needs relating to health care services, transportation, daily living services, personal financial planning and counseling, temporary income support services, fiduciary and representative payee services, legal services to assist the eligible individual with issues that may contribute to the risk of suicide, and childcare 
  • Nontraditional and innovative approaches and treatment practices, as approved by the VA 
  • Other services needed to help improve the mental health, support the well-being, and reduce the suicide risk of eligible veterans and their families 

This grant announcement follows Congressman Deluzio’s introduction of a new bipartisan bill, the Saving Our Veterans Lives Act. This proposal—supported by organizations across the political spectrum—would build off a successful pilot program and would give free gun lockboxes to veterans through the VA.

Aliquippa Homecoming Events Announced

Story by Sandy Giordano – Beaver County Radio. Published October 3, 2024 12:06 P.M.

(Aliquippa, Pa) Friday, October 4, 2024 will be a busy day in Aliquippa. At 3:30pm, the unveiling of the new Champions of Aliquippa sign will take place. The sign is a part of  a project by the Aliquippa Economic Development Corporation. Participants are to meet in the Mount Carmel Evangelical Presbyterian Church parking lot. At 4pm the lineup for the annual homecoming parade is at Auto Zone on Main Street. The parade begins at 5 pm and will proceed to Heinz Field. Drivers should find an alternate route  during the parade.

Aliquippa City Council approves hiring of a full time firefighter

Story by Sandy Giordano – Beaver County Radio. Published October 3, 2024 12:02 P.M.

(Aliquippa, Pa) Part time Aliquippa firefighter Hunter Hagy was promoted to full time based on the recommendation from Fire Chief Tim Firich.

The city approved the advertising for bids for cleaning services to be provided for the city building and they approved the advertising for sealed proposals for gasoline/diesel fuel for city vehicles.

Council discussed the hiring of a replacement for Tim McCloskey for third party inspections in 2025.
A proclamation recognizing September 2024 as “Attendance Awareness Month” in the City of Aliquippa was approved.
Five repository properties, one being a lot, were presented for approval by Code and Zoning Officer Jim Bologna were approved.
Council will meet for their monthly work session on Wednesday, October  30, 2024 at 7pm. The regular meeting will be on Wednesday, November  6, 2024 at 7pm.

Pittsburgh recognized as a World Festival and Event City

(Story written by Noah Haswell of Beaver County Radio, Published on October 3, 2024 at 8:40 A.M.)

(Pittsburgh, PA) Pittsburgh was selected as one of four cities to be recognized as a World Festival and Event City by the International Festivals and Events Association. According to a media release from VisitPITTSBURGH, an international panel of experts judged each city’s commitment and fostering to festivals and events, the economic impact of these activities, and the role in enhancing the quality of life for residents and visitors. Pittsburgh joins three other cities in the United States of America to earn this honor in 2024.

Joseph S. Holoweiko (1965-2024)

Joseph S. Holoweiko, 59, of Wampum, passed away unexpectedly on October 1, 2024, at his residence.

He was born on April 17, 1965, in Beaver Falls, the son of the late Joseph and Nina Stanyard Holoweiko. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a sister, Barbara Davidson. He is survived by his wife, Kelly L. Thomas Holoweiko, son, Ryan (Chelsie) Holoweiko, daughter, Kristy (Brandon) Jones, four grandchildren, Jaxon and Alida Holoweiko, and Brayden and Braxton Jones, sister, Cynthia Cunningham, and his dog, Ruckus.

In his professional life, Joseph was a dedicated and hardworking individual, spending many years at Nova Chemicals, which is now, Styropeck.

Joseph loved fishing, but not as much as his love for his grandchildren. He enjoyed every second he got to spend with them. His pride for them was as evident as the smile that lit up his face every time he spoke of them, a testament to the love he held deep within his heart.

Joseph had an affinity not just for his family and fishing, but for wildlife. From deer to squirrels, his appreciation for Mother Nature’s creatures was profound. His cherished memories weren’t limited to nature alone. Adventures at Cedar Point, Six Flags, and Myrtle Beach were favorite pastimes.

Friends will be received on Saturday, October 5 from 2-4 P.M. and 6-8 P.M. in CORLESS-KUNSELMAN FUNERAL SERVICES, LLC, 3801 4th Avenue, Beaver Falls. A service will also be held on Sunday, October 6th at 3 P.M. in the First Presbyterian Church, 252 College Avenue, Beaver. Pastor Jeff Arnold will officiate.

Interment will be private at Grandview Cemetery.

Victor A. Miller (1939-2024)

Victor A. Miller, 85, of Brighton Township, passed away on September 27, 2024 in his home.  He was born in Rochester on January 17, 1939, a son of the late Victor J. and Dorothy Miller. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Kathy Miller.

He is survived by his children, Michelle Doblinger, Stephen & Tia Miller, Karen & Eric Martin, and Victor Miller, 7 grandchildren: Boilin Miller, Anah Gilmore, Aubree Miller, Brody Miller, Madison Martin, Abigale Martin, and Nia Gallinal; and his sister Donna Gamble.

Victor was a U.S. Army Veteran serving in Korea. He was a retired pipe fitter and boiler maker from Nova Chemicals. While working, he was very active in the OCAW Union, holding the President office a few times. He loved to work with his hands, especially on cars and woodworking.

In accordance with Victor’s wishes, all services are private. Arrangements have been entrusted to the branch of Huntsman Funeral Home and Cremation Services.

Memorial contributions may be made to any Multiple Sclerosis Charity.

Roberto Alfonso Rocca (1982-2024)

Roberto Alfonso Rocca, 42, of Midland, passed away on September 30, 2024.

He was born February 3, 1982 in Brighton Township, a son of Roberto and Marcella Rocca. In addition to his parents, he is survived by his sisters, Gia Rocca, Renee (Mark) Grommas, Claudine (Dave) Lambert, aunts & uncles, Ambrose and Terry Rocca, Ike and Barbra Rocca, Victor and Stacy Rocca, Orlando and Liz Pineda, Alfonso and Susan Pineda, Albert and Terry Pineda, David and Jane Pineda, Josette and Frank Terrones, as well as many nieces, nephews and great nieces and nephews.

Roberto was a graduate of Midland High School. He had many friends and loved to have fun attending sporting events with them. He was a sports enthusiast and especially loved the Steelers. He was a member of Midland Sportsmen Club and the American Legion Post 481. He was also the former owner of Rocca’s Hot Dog Shop. He also enjoyed a variety of foods and loved cooking.

Friends will be received on Thursday, October 3, from 4 p.m. until 7 p.m. at the Schwerha-Noll Funeral Home, 629 Midland Avenue, Midland. A private blessing service will be held at a later date followed by interment at Beaver Cemetery. Online condolences may be shared at nollfuneral.com.

In lieu of flowers donations may be made to St. Blaise Catholic Church, 772 Ohio Avenue, Midland, PA 15059.

Georgia K. Wickline (1936-2024)

Georgia K. Wickline, 88, passed away on October 1, 2024. She was born on August 1, 1936, a daughter of the late Laura Vogler Merriman and Dale Merriman. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her grandparents, Clyde and Effie Merriman, and Sarah and Charles Vogler. She is survived by her wonderful and supportive siblings, Ruth (Chuck) Cote, Carol (Joe) Pisano, Sandra Blake, and Robert (Julie) Merriman, children: Debra (Michael) Pless, Wendy (Pete) Giannetti, Sharon (William) Bibby, Laurie (Scott) Hiltz, Stepson Robert (Mary) Wickline; and grandchildren: Jordan (Heidi) Giannetti, Veronica (Thomas) Mollick, Jonathan (Alayna) Hiltz, Brandon (Jaime) Ankney, Patrick (Danielle) Giannetti, Jessica (Chad) Hupp, Cameron (Amanda) Hiltz, Caitlin (Bret) Nemeth, Chelsea (Jameson) Staley; step grandchildren: Michael (Kaylee) & Daniel (Erica) Wickline, William (Jenna) Bibby, Cami (Matthew) Dineen, David Bibby, and twenty-six great grandchildren.

Georgia was a graduate of New Brighton High School and worked most of her life well into her seventies. She worked for the Area Agency on Aging, International Titanium, Mom’s Pies, Passavant Memorial Homes in Rochester, and the Senior Employment program of Lawrence County.

She was a member of the Christian Missionary Alliance Church, Alliance Women, 5th Avenue Methodist Church, Methodist Women, and New Brighton Christian Women.

Georgia was a member of the Retired Senior Volunteer Program, in conjunction with Professional Outfitters, to provide free children’s clothing to the community and volunteering for the New Brighton Soup Kitchen and other services as needed. She was the leader of a Cottage Bible Study in various homes with wonderful Christian friends whom she loved. Her hobbies were reading, solving crossword puzzles, quilting, and playing cards.

Although the Lord was her first love, her children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren were her reason for living.

She will be missed by her dear friends at Dawes Manor.
Thank you to the Good Samaritan Hospice and this amazing team: Jamie, Jenn, Jess, and Ashley.

Family and friends are invited to attend a visitation to be held on Tuesday, October 8, from 4-8 P.M. at J & J Spratt Funeral Home, 1612 3rd Avenue, New Brighton.  Private family funeral services will be held.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be sent to Good Samaritan Hospice 116 Browns Hill Road, Valencia, PA 16059, (Georgia Wickline’s Team) or Donate – Concordia Lutheran Ministries, (concordialm.org) then choose Good Samaritan Hospice from the drop down in memory of Georgia Wickline.

Marilyn Frances McGee (1943-2024)

Marilyn Frances McGee, 81, of Chippewa Township, passed away on October 1, 2024, in the comfort of her home.

She was born on August 21, 1943, in West Seneca, New York, the daughter of the late Woodrow and Irene (Prusak) Babcock. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Ralph McGee. She is survived by her children, Walter (Virginia) Samosky, Stephen Samosky, Marilyn (Mike) Mariaskin, Lynn (Joe) Reilly, and Ann (Dave) Kreul, and grandchildren, Joshua, Samantha, John, and Peter.

Marilyn graduated from D’Youville College and pursued a career as a teacher before welcoming five children with the late Walter Samosky. She was a devoted mother and cherished every moment spent with her loved ones. She attended St. Monica Church of St. Augustine Parish.

A Memorial Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Friday, October 4th at 10:00 A.M. at St. Monica Church of St. Augustine Parish, 116 Thorndale Drive, Beaver Falls. Arrangements have been entrusted to the branch of Gabauer Funeral Homes.