Author: Beaver County Radio

Troy Rivetti Appointed to Serve as United States Attorney for the Western District of Pennsylvania

(Credit for Photo: Courtesy of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Pennsylvania, Photo Posted on Facebook on February 17th, 2023)

Noah Haswell, Beaver County Radio News

(Pittsburgh, PA) According to a release in Pittsburgh today from the U.S. Department of Justice, Troy Rivetti was appointed by Attorney General Pamela Bondi yesterday to serve as United States Attorney for the Western District of Pennsylvania. Rivetti was sworn into that position yesterday afternoon by the Honorable J. Nicholas Ranjan, United States District Court Judge. Rivetti has led the office since United States Attorney Eric Olshan resigned in January of 2025, with him having served as Acting United States Attorney until November of 2025 and then continuing to lead the office as First Assistant United States Attorney, which was the role that he held prior to becoming Acting United States Attorney. Rivetti’s career in the Department of Justice has spanned nearly 30 years.

2026 Beaver County Maple Syrup and Music Festival cancelled

(File Photo of a Past Beaver County Maple Syrup and Music Festival)

Noah Haswell, Beaver County Radio News

(Beaver County, PA) PUSH Beaver County recently announced that the annual Beaver County Maple Syrup and Music Festival which is traditionally held at Brady’s Run Park will not take place this year. Regis Collins, the director of that festival, formally notified the organization’s Board of Directors at PUSH Beaver County’s January’s board meeting that he needed to unfortunately cancel the event. The Board and leadership team of PUSH Beaver County then engaged in further discussion following that notification and finally determined that a pause of the Beaver County Maple Syrup and Music Festival was necessary to responsibly evaluate its future. That decision was not made lightly, however; PUSH Beaver County has chosen to pause that festival in order to explore opportunities to reimagine the event for 2027 or beyond and to study its long-term sustainability.

Joan E. Moritz (Passed on January 25th, 2026)

Joan E. Moritz, 98, passed away on January 25th, 2026 at her Monaca residence. She was born in Buffalo, New York, a daughter of the late Benjamin and Esther Perry. Her heart found its partner in Gregory L. Moritz, and they got married on December 15th, 1945, in Barker, New York. Their union was a bond that lasted until Gregory’s passing. In addition to her parents and husband, she was also preceded in death by her sister, Marjorie Marshall, and her brothers, Robert and Harold “Skip” Perry. She is survived by her daughter, Helen Moritz and her sons, James (Debbie) Moritz and Gerald (Mary Kay) Moritz. She was the proud grandmother to five grandsons: Benjamin, Sean, Chris, James, Jr., and Mike Moritz; as well as her two great-grandsons and three great-granddaughters. Her extended family included Tammy, Rudy, Chy, and Matt Spagnola and Norma and Dan Simpson.

In 1949, Joan moved to Pennsylvania, where she would become the heart of her home. She was the longest resident of Allaire Homes and was grateful for the many friendships she formed along the way. Her commitment to her family was unwavering, as she was a homemaker who kept an immaculate home and ensured a warm meal was always on the table. Her family was her priority, a value she instilled in all those around her. As a former Cub Scout den mother of Troop 420, she touched the lives of many young individuals. Among her proudest achievements was raising her amazing grandson, Benjamin, who carries on her spirit of generosity and compassion. She was a devout Catholic who lived her faith through action. She and her late husband shared a love for fishing, a pastime that brought them closer to nature and each other. Her hands were rarely still, as she enjoyed sewing and crocheting, creating countless baby blankets that wrapped new generations in her love. She was an avid sports fan who cheered passionately for the Buffalo Bills and the Pittsburgh Pirates. Her enthusiasm was steadfast, through victories and defeats.

Joan’s gratitude is extended to the care and support provided by Life Beaver. The organization was a pillar of strength for her, and she often expressed her appreciation for their unwavering dedication.

A celebration of life gathering will be held on Saturday, June 27th at noon at the John Antoline (Memorial) Park, 2500 Marshall Road, Monaca.

Andrea Bocelli to sing in Pittsburgh

By Scott Tady

PITTSBURGH — One of the most beloved and recognized musical voices in the world, maestro Andrea Bocelli, announced new North American dates for his 2026 Romanza 30th Anniversary World Tour, including a Dec. 21 performance in Pittsburgh.

Bocelli will entertain at PPG Paints Arena, celebrating his widely-acclaimed 1997 breakthrough album “Romanza.”

The Andrea Bocelli North American social fan presale starts 10 a.m. Feb. 5, followed by the general ticket on-sale at 10 a.m. Feb. 6. For more tickets and information, visit https://www.andreabocelli.com/tickets.

American Express is providing eligible card members access to Amex Presale Tickets. starting 10 a.m. Feb. 4.

Bocelli’s fall North American tour kicks off on Sept. 8 in Seattle and concludes on Sept. 21 in Denver, while his winter tour kicks off on Dec. 10 in Boston, and concludes on Dec. 22 in Philadelphia.

“Romanza“ became a global phenomenon upon its release in 1997, selling more than 20 million copies worldwide. The record earned Platinum and Diamond certifications in over 20 countries, including Triple Platinum in the United States and Diamond status in Canada. It is both the best-selling Italian-language album and the best-selling predominantly non-English language album of all time. “Romanza” also topped the charts in 11 countries and reached the top of Billboard’s U.S. World Albums and Top Catalog Albums charts.

Maestro Bocelli is set to perform at the Opening Ceremony of the Olympic Winter Games Milano Cortina 2026 on Feb. 6. Returning to the Olympic stage after his appearance at the Torino 2006 Closing Ceremony, the world-renowned tenor will bring his iconic voice to San Siro Stadium for this historic moment.

Andrea Bocelli has a Christmastime date in Pittsburgh.

Dr. Vera Krokonko (1935-2026)

Dr. Vera Krokonko, 90, of Casselberry, Florida, formerly of Ambridge, Moon Township, and Cranberry Township, passed away on January 22nd, 2026, in her home surrounded by her loving family.

She was born in Ambridge on July 18th, 1935, a daughter of the late Joseph and Mary Lavrinok Krokonko. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by a daughter, Carrie Krokonko in 2015, a grandson, Terry Foley and a great niece, Adah Grace Krokonko. She is survived by four daughters: Tarrie Buchannon of Beaver Falls, Tina (Orin) Kephart of Arizona, Trina (Ted) Hennigan of North Carolina and Carmel Bynum of Arizona; as well as 8 grandchildren, 6 great grandchildren and a brother, Joseph (Linda) Krokonko of Zainesville, Ohio.

Dr. Vera was a 1953 graduate of Ambridge High School, 1957 graduate of the University of Pittsburgh and a 1961 graduate of the University of Pittsburgh Medical School.  She served her internship in medicine and pediatrics at Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh from 1962-1965. Following her internship, she started her practice in pediatrics in Moon Township retiring in 2000, after 34 years of dedicated service to the community.  Her passion in life was serving God as a lifelong member of the Saints Peter & Paul Ukrainian Catholic Church in Ambridge and she was a member of the choir there and later became the choir director in 1982.  She also served as a cantor and lector for many years.  She was a charter member of the Solidity Group for Women and was a charter member of the original parish council. She served on the Liturgical-Spiritual Committee for many years and taught CCD and adult education classes.  In 1965, she became a Secular Franciscan and in 2007 took the vows of the Consecrated Virgin in the Catholic Church. She was very proud to receive her Masters and PHD in Spiritual Formation from Duquesne University in 1997.  She took piano lessons for 9 years and loved playing the piano and painting Pysanky (Ukrainian Easter Eggs).

Friends will be received on Tuesday, February 3rd from 11 A.M. until the time of a funeral service at 12 noon in the Saints Peter and Paul Ukrainian Catholic Church, 404 Sixth Street, Ambridge, with Father Michael Polosky Officiating. Interment will follow in SS Peter & Paul Catholic Cemetery, 1691 Ridge Road Extension, #1601, Ambridge.
In lieu of flowers the family asks donations to be made to the SS Peter & Paul Ukrainian Catholic Church, 404 Sixth Street, Ambridge, PA 15003. Arrangements have been entrusted to the John Syka Funeral Home, Inc., 833 Kennedy Drive, Ambridge.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Dr. Vera Krokonko, please visit the floral store of the John Syka Funeral Home, Inc. by clicking here.

Karin Roberta Hudac (1970-2026)

Karina Roberta Hudac, 55, of Economy Borough, passed away on January 27th, 2026. She was born on September 4th, 1970, a beloved daughter of Valerie Kozak and the late Jerry Hudac.

In addition to her father, she was preceded in death by her son, Kevin Hudac, her aunts, Marlene Hudac and Maryanne Kozak, her uncle, Robert Kozak, her maternal grandparents, Michael and Eugenia Kozak and paternal grandparents, Edward and Doris Hudac. She is survived by her sisters, Sheila Albright and Tammy George, her uncle, John Kozak, her aunts, Faythe Hudac and Holly Kozak, her nieces, Sophia Albright and Kailey George, her nephews: Joshua Martz, Zackary Gill, Cody George, and Seth Albright; life partner, Scott Zbrzezny; as well as her godmother, Helena Hess, and her beloved pets, Willy and Decland.

Karina was a graduate of Ambridge High School, Class of 1988, and went on to attend nursing school, earning her bachelor’s degree. She devoted many years to her career as a nurse, caring for others with compassion and dedication. Her life revolved around her son, whom she loved deeply. Karina was a positive, selfless soul who was always willing to help anyone in need. She found peace in campfires and cherished trips to the beach, especially watching the sunrise. Above all, she loved being in the warmth of the sun.

A Visitation will be held from 12 noon to 4 P.M. on Sunday, February 1st at Alvarez-Hahn Funeral Services and Cremation, LLC, 547 8th Street, Ambridge, who was in charge of her arrangements. A funeral service will be held at 11:30 A.M. on Monday, February 2nd at Saints Peter and Paul Ukrainian Church, 546 Melrose Avenue, Ambridge. Burial will follow at Saints Peter and Paul Ukrainian Cemetery, 1691 Ridge Road Extension, #1601, Ambridge.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made in care to the funeral home, Alvarez-Hahn Funeral Services and Cremation, LLC, 547 8th Street, Ambridge, PA 15003.

Robert G. Dawson (1934-2026)

Robert G. Dawson, 91, of Midland, passed away on January 26th, 2026, at Celebration Villa of Chippewa surrounded by his family.

He was born in Ohioville on February 22nd, 1934, a son of the late F. Glenn and Mary Dawson. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his son, Ray Dawson, his brothers, Donald, Fred and Lloyd Dawson and sisters, Bernice May Dawson, Hazel Givens, and Janet Petz. He is survived by his wife of 68 years, Virginia Dawson, his daughters, Sandra (George) Jonas of Industry, Beth (Drew) Miladin of Center Tonwship, his son, Robert (Debbie) Dawson, Jr. of West Palm Beach, Florida, jhis daughter-in-law, Patsy Dawson Pearce of Carnegie, his sister, Linda Lomagro of Industry, his sisters-in-law, Martha Dawson of Beaver Falls, Norma Dawson of Beaver, his grandchildren: Tera Turnsek, Zachary (Stacey) Jonas, Robert (Jenna) Dawson III, Paige (Jonny) Rosales, Chase (Delaney) Miladin, Ryan Dawson; as well as his great-grandchildren: Lydia and Landon Turnsek, Gracyn and Joleigh Jonas, Hunter and Brayden Dawson, Sistine and Scarlet Rosales; as well as numerous nieces and nephews.

Robert was a proud veteran of the U. S. Army and was a Master Carpenter with the Carpenters Local 922. He was a life-long member of Midland Volunteer Fire Deptartment. He also attended the New Salem Presbyterian Church in Ohioville.

He had a great sense of humor and was always a gentleman. He loved playing cards, especially with his brothers. He enjoyed hunting and building jigsaw puzzles. His passion was woodworking. He liked to travel to Florida and being a snowbird, but most of all, his greatest joy was his family.

Friends will be received on Friday, January 30th, from 3-7 p.m. in the Schwerha-Noll Funeral Home, 629 Midland Avenue, Midland, who was in charge of his arrangements, and where a funeral service will be conducted on Saturday, January 31st at 11 a.m. A Military burial at a later date in the National Cemetery of the Alleghenies, 1158 Morgan Road, Bridgeville. Online condolences may be shared at nollfuneral.com.

The family would like to thank the staff at Celebration Villa, Chippewa, and Gateway Hospice for their compassionate care. The family would also like to thank all the great neighbors, friends and family for their love and support.

To order memorial trees or send flowers to the family in memory of Robert G. Dawson, please visit the flower store of the Noll Funeral Home, Inc. by clicking here.

Clendon Thomas, former Pro-Bowl defensive back for the Steelers, dies at 90

(File Photo: Source for Photo: Former Oklahoma halfback Clendon Thomas speaks during a news conference in New York, Dec. 6, 2011. (AP Phot/ Seth Wenig, File)

Noah Haswell, Beaver County Radio News

(Tulsa, OK) Clendon Thomas, a former Pro-Bowl defensive back for the Pittsburgh Steelers has died at the age of 90. Chuck Bowman, a longtime friend and a former college roommate of Thomas, confirmed on Tuesday that Thomas died of pneumonia on Monday night in Tulsa, Oklahoma. Thomas was drafted by the Los Angeles Rams in the second round of the 1958 NFL Draft. Thomas was traded to the Steelers in 1962 and played for them from 1962-1968. He was selected to the Pro Bowl in 1963. Thomas was inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame in 2011 and played for the University of Oklahoma from 1955-1957, helping the Sooners win back-to-back national championships in 1955 and 1956.

Charges filed against man who walked on the icy Allegheny River for hours after trespassing a former VA building in Pittsburgh

(Photo Courtesy of WPXI/WPXI)

Noah Haswell, Beaver County Radio News

(Pittsburgh, PA) Charges have now been filed against the man who fled from officers by walking on the frozen Allegheny River for hours. The incident all began at the former Veterans Affairs building on Highland Drive in the Lincoln-Lemington Belmar neighborhood of Pittsburgh. Police were called to the area shortly after noon yesterday for someone trespassing. According to the criminal complaint, when officers arrived, they found a man, later identified as Gary Cawley, tampering with an electrical panel. Police note that Cawley ignored their orders and ran across a large field covered with snow and into the woods. Cawley eventually made his way onto the icy Allegheny River and walked several miles. Around 4 p.m., Cawley complied and was taken into custody in Harmar Township near a Target store. He was then taken to a hospital in stable condition. Cawley has charges of burglary, criminal trespassing, possessing instruments of crime, evading arrest and disorderly conduct. 

Fugitive who pleaded guilty to animal cruelty found in crawlspace and arrested in East Pittsburgh

(Photo Courtesy of WPXI/WPXI)

Noah Haswell, Beaver County Radio News

(Allegheny County, PA) According to police, a fugitive who previously pleaded guilty to animal cruelty was arrested in East Pittsburgh after he was found in a crawlspace. The suspect that was recently arrested was twenty-five-year-old Kachyphe McCullough-Williams, who the Allegheny County Sheriff’s Office confirms pleaded guilty to eleven counts of animal cruelty in 2022. Investigators confirm they tracked McCullough-Williams to a house on Franklin Avenue in East Pittsburgh using information that was provided to them this week. He was taken into custody without incident and is being held at the Allegheny County Jail.