Author: Beaver County Radio

Route 51 Intersection Restrictions Underway in Monaca

Pittsburgh, PA – PennDOT District 11 is announcing daylight restrictions at an intersection at the southern end of the East Rochester-Monaca Bridge in Monaca Borough, Beaver County are underway today, September 5.

Lane closures will occur at the intersection of Seventeenth Street (Route 51) and Pennsylvania Avenue (Route 4044) Thursday, September 5 until 3 p.m. to allow crews to conduct line painting and removal of temporary signals at the intersection. There will be additional lane closures weekdays from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. through late September, as needed, to return the intersection back to its original configuration.

Flaggers will assist motorists through the work zone.

This $6.69 million project includes bridge preservation work on the Rochester-Monaca Bridge between Atlantic Avenue in Monaca Borough and Pleasant Street in Rochester Borough. Preservation work includes expansion joint replacement, zone painting, concrete deck overlay, downspout repair and replacement, steel and concrete repairs, as well as sidewalk, deck, barrier, and fence repairs, pavement marking upgrades, and other miscellaneous construction activities. This project is expected to be completed in late 2024.

Aliquippa Convicted Felon Charged with Possession of Firearm and Ammunition

PITTSBURGH, Pa. – A resident of Aliquippa, Pennsylvania, has been indicted by a federal grand  jury in Pittsburgh on a charge of possession of a firearm and ammunition by a convicted felon,  United States Attorney Eric G. Olshan announced today. 

The one-count Indictment named Tyland Witherspoon, 27, as the sole defendant. Witherspoon was arrested on August 30, 2024, related to this federal charge.  

According to the Indictment, on or about June 19, 2024, Witherspoon, who was previously  convicted of a felony, was found to be in possession of a Glock 23 40 caliber pistol along with  Smith & Wesson 40 caliber ammunition. Federal law prohibits possession of a firearm or  ammunition by a convicted felon.  

The law provides for a total sentence of up to 15 years in prison, a fine of up to $250,000, or both. Under the federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based  upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history of the defendant.  

Assistant United States Attorney Nicole A. Stockey is prosecuting this case on behalf of the  government. 

The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and Pittsburgh Bureau of Police  conducted the investigation leading to the Indictment. 

This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all  levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun  violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department  launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles:  fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that  help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement  priorities, and measuring the results. 

An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty. 

Juvenile found with stolen gun during Aliquippa traffic stop

Story by Sandy Giordnao – Beaver County Radio. Published September 5, 2024 11:58 A.M.

(Aliquippa, Pa) Just before midnight on Wednesday, a traffic stop was conducted by Aliquippa Police at Reed and McMinn Streets. The operator of the vehicle Auriana Lay, 21, was operating the vehicle while her license was under suspension. An officer had lay exit the vehicle as the second officer observed her male juvenile passenger reach into his waistband and attempt to shove a firearm under the seat. Police removed the juvenile and discovered a loaded Glock 20 10mm pistol.  According to the report, police confirmed the firearm was stolen from Rochester Borough.  Police said they also found marijuana on the juvenile. He was transported to the Aliquippa Police Department and securely detained.  Juvenile Services was contacted and he was transported by the Beaver County Sheriff’s Department to Ohio. He will be housed at the facility until he faces a hearing for the juvenile allegations.

Mechele Lynn “Meme” Tunno (1966-2024)

Mechele Lynn “Meme” Tunno, 58, of Patterson Township, passed away on September 3, 2024, in the comfort of her home surrounded by friends and family.

She was born on June 8, 1966, in New Brighton, the daughter of Patricia (Hoagland) McClinton and the late Eugene Tunno. In addition to her father, she was preceded in death by her grandparents, Pearl Hoagland; Joseph and Sereta Tunno, Aunt Barbara Mullins and friend Stacey Webb.

In addition to her mother, Mechele is survived by her son, Seth Snyder; grandson, Orion Snyder; a sister, Dawn Tunno; a brother, Barry Tunno; Maria and Maxi Schroder; a half brother, Brody Tunno; a half sister, Stefanie (Bryan) Wright; stepfather Richard McClinton; stepbrothers, Doug (Tina) and Michael (Cathy) McClinton; nieces, Kristen and Ashley Tunno, Gabby and Abby McClinton; nephew Nicholas (Dana) Bertolo, cousins, Maryann Wagner, Charles and David Mullins, and special friends Debbie Boggs and Holly Kovacevic.

Mechele had a career as an Administrator of IT at Stoelzle Glass USA, Inc., formerly Anchor Hocking in Monaca. She cherished spending time with her grandson Orion and playing games with her family and friends. Mechele loved her home and doing endless projects.

Mechele’s wishes for cremation have been honored and a celebration of life will be planned for a later date at Riverview Methodist Church, 1099 Darlington Road, Beaver Falls.

The GABAUER-LUTTON FUNERAL HOME & CREMATION SERVICES, INC. of Beaver Falls is honored to provide care and guidance to Mechele’s family during this time.

Thomas J. Lewarchik (1959-2024)

Thomas J. Lewarchik, 65, of Beaver passed away on September 1, 2024.

He was born in Monaca on June 3, 1959, a son of the late Irvin “Oss” and Evelyn D. Alexander Lewarchik. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his infant nephew Rohn Edward and beloved dogs Beach and Ginger. He is survived by his son, Jesse (Amanda), granddaughter Zoe, brothers Robert (Nita) and Edward, nephews Christopher, Benjamin and George; nieces Rae, Pamela and Catherine, great nephews David, Daniel and Austin; great nieces Alyssa, Kaylee and Hadley and devoted friend Robby.

Thomas moved to Melbourne, Florida shortly after graduating high school. He pursued a career in carpentry, eventually co-owning Dubloon Builders, formerly of Melbourne. During that time, Tom gave many friends and family members opportunities at working at the family business.

Soon after moving to the beach, he fell in love with surfing. It was during a trip to catch some waves when he found a hungry, stray dog looking for food. Tom took him in and named him Beach, and the dog became a loyal companion for 15 years.

When Tom’s health began to decline, he became a resident of Friendship Ridge where he fought tirelessly for the rights of patients. He made many friends there and everywhere he lived.

Tom genuinely cared about the Lord, his family and friends.

Friends will be received on Saturday, September 7 from 1 p.m. until the time of a blessing service at 3 p.m. at SIMPSON FUNERAL & CREMATION SERVICES, 1119 Washington Avenue, Monaca.

Memorial contributions may be made in Tom’s memory to the Beaver County Humane Society.

Charlene Dinello Pendell (1940-2024)

Charlene Dinello Pendell, 84, passed away on September 4, 2024, leaving behind a legacy of love, laughter, and cherished memories. She was born on May 23, 1940, and was the daughter of Italian immigrants, Chuck and Yolanda Dinello, she embodied the warmth, passion, and enduring spirit of her heritage throughout her life. Charlene grew up in the close-knit community of West Aliquippa, Pennsylvania. Charlene is survived by her two sons, Chuck and Rick Tolfa, whom she adored deeply. She also leaves behind Chuck’s wife, Gina, and their two children, Vinny and Gianna, as well as Rick’s wife, Lois, and their son, Kirk. Charlene’s family was her pride and joy, and her love for them was boundless.

Charlene was the beloved widow of Brad Pendell, with whom she shared many joyful years. Known for her love of old Hollywood, she was an avid fan of classic films and enjoyed keeping up with Hollywood gossip. Her interest in the glamorous world of cinema also extended to her own life—she pursued modeling in her youth, a path that eventually led to a small but proud role in the iconic film *The Deer Hunter*.

Her passion for the arts didn’t stop there. Charlene was an active member of The Red Barn Players, a local theater group where she spent many happy years acting and bringing characters to life on stage. Her talent and love for performing left a lasting impact on all who saw her in action.

Beyond her artistic pursuits, Charlene had a keen eye for interior decorating, transforming spaces with her sense of style and grace. However, more than anything, she lived for the people she loved. Her friends and family were the heart of her world, and she was known for her generosity, loyalty, and unwavering support. Charlene was always there with a kind word, a listening ear, or a shared laugh, enriching the lives of those around her.

Her light will be missed, but her legacy will live on in the hearts of those who knew her.

Family and friends are welcome to attend visitation on Monday, September 9, from 11:00 am until time of Blessing service at 12:30 pm in the Anthony Mastrofrancesco Funeral Home Inc. 2026 McMinn Street, Aliquippa.

Private Interment will follow at Mt. Olivet Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made in Charlene’s memory to the Red Barn Players, P.O. Box 628 Ellwood City, PA 16117, celebrating her passion for theater and the arts.

Catherine Lee Couch (1960-2024)

Catherine Lee Couch, 64, of Koppel, passed away on September 2, 2024, due to an unexpected medical condition at her home.

She was born on March 27, 1960, in Rochester, the daughter of the late Lois Ann Harrison Couch and Russell Werner Couch. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her sister, Marilee Couch; her grandparents, Louis and Naomi Tomlinson Harrison, and Arthur and Virginia Gray Couch; her uncle Frank Vukich; her aunt and uncle, Joanne and Dick Clark; and cousin, David Vukich.

She is survived by her brother, Russell (Shelby Black-Couch) Couch; half-sister, Michelle (Mike) Couch Lonsway; stepmother, Betty Jo Spickerman Couch; two aunts, Eileen (Tom) Reed, and Nancy Couch Vukich, many cousins including: Scott Reed, Lindsay Gleichauf, Brayden Vallow, Mason Vallow, Chris Clark, Lindy DeAngelo, Carole White, Bob Gray, Peggy Czartoryski, Pat Gray, and Ed Gray and their families; Cathy’s community of close friends including her childhood best friend Stephanie Modro, goddaughter Sophia Gagliano, her special sister in Christ Debbie Kroll, and her wonderful friends and neighbors Bonnie Trelease, Donna Nolan, Kim Smoot, Sandy Colette, Cindy Prindle and Gloria Cappello; and of course, her beloved canine companion and fur baby, Sammi.

Cathy was a graduate of New Brighton High School and Slippery Rock University. She was a member of Riverview United Methodist Church where she served the youth group and led a mission’s trip to Redbird Missions in Kentucky that was a special experience. Over the last couple decades, Cathy has been a member of the Chippewa United Methodist Church where she served on the Missions Committee and has been a longtime member of the book club.

Catherine was known by many for her love of her family, her kindness and gentleness towards others, her love for the Lord, and her appreciation for nature and the ocean.

A memorial visitation will be held on Saturday, September 7th from 11 A.M. until the start of Cathy’s Celebration of Life at 1 P.M. at the Chippewa United Methodist Church, 2545 Darlington Road, Beaver Falls with Pastor Allan Brooks officiating. A private internment with family will follow at a later date at Union Cemetery in Monaca.

Professional Services were handled by the CORLESS-KUNSELMAN FUNERAL SERVICES, LLC, 3801 4th Avenue, Beaver Falls.

In lieu of flowers, the family wishes donations to be made in Catherine’s honor, if desired, to either Red Bird Mission in Kentucky (redbirdky.org) or Chippewa United Methodist Church (chippewaumc.org).

Chief Warrant Officer (Ret.) Wayne C. Zinsser (1949-2024)

Chief Warrant Officer (Ret.) Wayne C. Zinsser, 74, of New Brighton, passed away on September 2, 2024.

He was born on September 12, 1949, in Pittsburgh, the son of the late Richard and Catherine (Kirner) Zinsser, Sr. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his daughter, Amy Zinsser and his sister, Kathleen Zinsser. 

He is survived by his wife, Barbara (Kerr) Zinsser of Ponte Vedra Beach, Florida, a brother, Richard Jr. (Carol) Zinsser of New Brighton; two sisters, Debbie (Paul) Roxer of Virginia Beach and Beth (Allen) Crivelli of Pittsburgh and several nieces, nephews and their families. 

His passion for aviation led him to enlist in the U.S. Army, where he embarked on a remarkable career. As a skilled helicopter pilot, Wayne flew numerous missions across Germany, Korea, and Honduras, demonstrating unwavering commitment and bravery.  He was Catholic by faith. 

Family and friends will be received on Saturday, September 7, from 9:30 a.m. until a Mass of Christian Burial at 10 a.m. in Holy Family Church of New Brighton with Fr. Howard Campbell officiating. The Beaver County Special Unit will also provide military honors for Wayne on Saturday, September 7, at 11 a.m. in Holy Family Church. 

Kaela Noel Lambert (1988-2024)

Kaela Noel Lambert, passed away on August 25, 2024. She was born on December 18, 1988. She was preceded in death by her mother Tina (Bosco) Lambert, grandparents James and Lillian Lambert and Paul and Millie Bosco. She is survived by her father Michael Lambert and countless family and friends who will remember her with immense affection and respect.

Kaela was a beacon of light and joy, whose vibrant spirit touched everyone who had the privilege of knowing her.

Born with an infectious enthusiasm and boundless energy, Kaela was a cherished friend, daughter, and sister. Her laughter and bright smile were constants in the lives of those around her, bringing warmth and happiness wherever she went. She had a unique ability to make every moment special, and her kindness and zest for life were truly unparalleled.

Kaela’s love for adventure and her fearless approach to life inspired all who knew her. Her passion for helping others and her genuine, caring nature made her a beloved figure in her community. She had an extraordinary gift for turning the ordinary into something extraordinary, and her legacy will live on in the hearts of everyone she touched. While her time with us was far too brief, her impact was profound and lasting. Her father would also like to give recognition to Tammy Pumphrey and Amanda Lively for all the help they have given him through this tough time.

A celebration of Kaela’s life will be held at a later date where we will honor her memory and the joy she brought into our lives. Services and arrangements have been entrusted to the Gabauer Lutton Funeral Home and Cremation Services, Inc., 117 Blackhawk Road, Beaver Falls. 

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to in Kaela’s name, reflecting her spirit of generosity and love.

Kaela Lambert will be deeply missed but never forgotten. Her light will continue to shine brightly in the hearts of all who knew her.

 

Hopewell Township Police and the school district announce drill

Story by Sandy Giordano – Beaver County Radio. Published September 4, 2024 2:23 P.M.

(Hopewell Township, Pa) On Thursday morning, September 5, 2024, the first ALICE Evacuation Drill of the Year will take place at 9:30am for the Hopewell School District.  Junior High School students and staff will evacuate to the Ohio UP Church parking lot. Drivers are being asked by police to be aware of pedestrian traffic in the area of Laird  Drive, Longvue Avenue, and Maratta Road. Please avoid the area for the safety of students, staff, and police officers.