Author: Beaver County Radio

AAA Reveals Labor Day Travel Trends for 2024

Monday, Sept. 2 is Labor Day, which is known as the unofficial end of summer. This year’s booking trends show strong interest to destinations worldwide, specifically Europe. International travel over Labor Day weekend is 11% higher than last year, per AAA data. Eight out of the top ten international destinations booked through AAA are European cities.

“While road trips are still the most popular Labor Day getaway, many people are taking advantage of the long weekend and planning something extra special,” says Bevi Powell, senior vice president, AAA East Central. “Trips to Europe come in many forms, including river cruises and small group tours, and all are unforgettable.”

Travelers renting a car abroad should consider getting an International Driving Permit (IDP), which translates their driver’s license information into 10 languages. Some countries – including Italy and Spain – require it. AAA is the only entity in the U.S. authorized by the State Department to issue an IDP.

According to AAA booking data, Seattle is the number one Labor Day weekend* destination overall, up nearly 30% from last year when it also topped the list. Top Labor Day destinations also include Orlando, New York, Boston, Las Vegas, Denver, Chicago, and San Francisco.

Top Labor Day Destinations

DOMESTIC

INTERNATIONAL

Seattle, WA

Vancouver, BC, Canada

Orlando, FL

Rome, Italy

Anchorage, AK

London, England

New York, NY

Paris, France

Boston, MA

Dublin, Ireland

Las Vegas, NV

Amsterdam, Netherlands

Denver, CO

Barcelona, Spain

Chicago, IL

Athens, Greece

Juneau, AK

Mexicali, Mexico

San Francisco, CA

Edinburgh, Scotland

 

To make the most of any trip, AAA recommends identifying must-see sights and creating a flexible itinerary ahead of time. Trip Canvas is a great free resource for travelers who are still in the planning phase.

Gas Prices Expected to be Lower than Last Year
Americans taking road trips should expect to pay less for gas compared to last year. The national average over Labor Day weekend in 2023 was $3.81. In recent weeks, gas prices have remained steady, hovering around $3.40. Despite the popularity of summer road trips, overall gas demand is down as daily driving habits have changed post-pandemic, preventing pump prices from spiking. For drivers taking road trips in their electric vehicles, AAA offers information on the cost of Level 2 commercial EV charging and updates that data weekly.

Best and Worst Times to Travel by Car over Labor Day Weekend
INRIX, a provider of transportation data and insights, says car travelers should avoid the afternoon and early evening hours of Thursday and Friday, as those times will be the most congested. Drivers should hit the road in the morning unless they’re leaving on Saturday when the best time to travel by car is in the afternoon. Travelers returning on Sunday and on Labor Day should leave as early as possible to avoid heavy traffic in the afternoon.

“Drivers should expect the most severe traffic jams before the holiday weekend as commuters mix with travelers,” said Bob Pishue, transportation analyst at INRIX. “Monitoring traffic apps, local news stations, and 511 traveler information services may help drivers navigate congestion and reduce driver frustration this Labor Day.”

Worst and Best Times to Travel by Car

Direction

Date

Worst Time

Best Time

Departing

Thursday, Aug 29

1:00 – 7:30 PM

Before 11 AM

Friday, Aug 30

2:00 – 6:00 PM

Before Noon, After 7 PM

Saturday, Aug 31

8:00 – 11:00 AM

After Noon

Returning

Sunday, Sep 1

Monday, Sep 2

2:00 – 8:00 PM

11:00 AM – 8:00 PM

Before Noon

Before 10:00 AM

Tuesday, Sep 3

8:00 AM – Noon

After 1:00 PM

Source: INRIX

*Labor Day Weekend

AAA looked at booking data for Thursday, August 29 through Monday, September 2, and compared those numbers with booking data for that same five-day period in 2023.

 

About INRIX

Founded in 2004, INRIX pioneered intelligent mobility solutions by transforming big data from connected devices and vehicles into mobility insights. This revolutionary approach enabled INRIX to become one of the leading providers of data and analytics into how people move. By empowering cities, businesses, and people with valuable insights, INRIX is helping to make the world smarter, safer, and greener. With partners and solutions spanning across the entire mobility ecosystem, INRIX is uniquely positioned at the intersection of technology and transportation – whether it’s keeping road users safe, improving traffic signal timing to reduce delay and greenhouse gasses, optimizing last mile delivery, or helping uncover market insights. Learn more at INRIX.com.

Boys and girls Club of Western PA opens in Aliquippa

Story by Sandy Giordano – Beaver County Radio. Published June 26, 2024 2:03 P.M.

(Aliquippa, Pa) Thursday afternoon, a new page in the history of Aliquippa School District with the opening of the clubhouse to serve students ages 10 to 18. A ribbon cutting took place at the clubhouse and the Aliquippa band performed opening the program. Dr. Phillip K. Woods gave opening remarks.  The development was made possible through collaborative effort with the Greater Aliquippa Advisory Committee. They aim to provide a safe, supportive, and enriching environment for the youth in the community. Members of the advisory committee include: Dr. Mitchel Nichols, District Superintendent Dr. Phillip K. Woods, Joe West, Tina Price-Genes, Olivia Benson, Ed Palombo, Ed DeMailo, Tyrone Patillo, Mike Warfield, Michael Hauser,  Genetha Short, Nora Lemon, Rob Jones, Sam Gill, Rick Szymoniak, Tamu Gilbert, Robert Digiovine, Jr. and Salina Moreland.

Fifteen students were there for the first day and programs will be available after school and in the summer. PA State Representative Rob Matzie presented a proclamation, and Ed Palombo, Aliquippa High School Class of 1967 alumnus, presented a $15,000 donation from Peoples Gas for the program. Chris Watts said “It  takes leadership and partnership” for the program’s success.

Aliquippa stabbing under investigation

Story by Sandy Giordano – Beaver County Radio. Published August 26, 2024 1:59 P.M.

(Aliquippa, Pa) On Thursday, August 23, 2024 at 2:35am, police were summoned to Towne Towers Apartments for a male being stabbed. Upon arrival, they found Vincent Hall with a stab wound on his left arm and a deep laceration on his forearm. He told police the stabbing occurred while he was walking on Sheffield Avenue prior to entering the apartments. A witness who provided aid to Hall said he was attacked in the building’s elevator. Aliquippa Police said they canvassed the building and also found nothing in the elevator. Outside in a dumpster, police said they found bloody clothing. Hall was transported to the hospital by ambulance for treatment, The investigation is ongoing.

PennDOT Driver License, Photo Centers Closed for Labor Day

Harrisburg, PA – The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) today announced that all driver license and photo centers, including its full-service center in Harrisburg, will be closed Saturday, August 31, 2024, through Monday, September 2, 2024, in observance of Labor Day.

A complete listing of PennDOT driver and photo license center closings in 2024 is available online. If you are planning to visit one of PennDOT’s On-Line Messenger Service Centers, please call ahead for hours of operation during holidays.

Courtney Miller Fish (1988-2024)

This obituary was shared at the family’s request.

Courtney Miller Fish, 36, of Georgetown, passed away unexpectedly on August 21, 2024.

She was born on January 8, 1988, in Beaver, a daughter of Ronald P. and Donna D. Reed Miller. Courtney was preceded in death by her maternal grandmother, Barbara Boyer, maternal grandfather, William Reed and paternal grandfather, Earl Miller. She is survived by her children, Mathias Wilkinson (10) and Eliana Fish (6); sister, Rachael Daniels and husband, Charlie; brother, Chase Miller and his wife, Andrea, Landon Miller, Derek Daniels; nieces, Kieara and Sophia Daniels, Aleah, Alainah and Atlee Miller; paternal grandmother, Wilda Miller; best friend, Sarah Miller and numerous aunts and uncles.

Courtney was a graduate of South Side High School Class of 2006. She was formerly employed at Beaver Medical Center as a security guard. Courtney most recently worked at Ray’s Café.

Courtney was well known to be outspoken and very talented at voicing her opinion. She loved deeply for her kids; they were her pride and joy. She always cared more for other people than she did herself. Courtney proved that in East Palestine after the train derailment. She protected and defended her family like a lion. Noone was a stranger, and she would talk to anyone.

A Celebration of Life will be held at Hookstown Free Methodist Church, 255 Main St. Hookstown, PA 15050 on Saturday August 31st at 11 a.m. She is in the care of the Arner Funeral Chapel.

Please consider making a donation to assist the family.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Courtney Miller Fish, please visit our floral store.

Mary Jane Dyson (1946-2024)

Mary Jane Dyson (Beitsch), 77, passed away at her home on August 25, 2024 surrounded by her loving family.

She was born on December 16, 1946, in New Brighton. She was preceded in death by her parents Job Beitsch and Virginia Long and her beloved brother, Robert Beitsch.

She is survived by her husband, Robert Dyson, sister Eileen Garmen, sister-in-law Patty Beitsch, and her favorite aunt, Sally Ginther, her three sons, Edward (Amanda) Nagy, Jason (Denise) Nagy, and Chad (Edina) Grueber, six grandchildren: AJ (Sierra) Nagy, Jake (Birdi) Nagy, Jessica (Alex) Walkowski, Nicole (Zack) Cinicola, Michael Nagy, and Gage Nagy, and great grandchild Jameson Nagy.

Mary was a graduate of New Brighton High School in 1964. She regularly attended Coffee Klatch Bible Study and was a member of her card club for over 40 years. She was a loyal friend and was known for her affinity for music, especially the Bee Gees. She also loved the sunshine and the beach. She lived a life marked by unwavering love, kindness, and dedication to those she cherished. Her family will hold her memory close, finding comfort in the many moments of joy they shared. Mary was truly the heart of her family and will be deeply missed.

In keeping with her wishes, there will be no memorial service. Arrangements have been entrusted to J&J Spratt Funeral Home, 1612 Third Avenue, New Brighton.

Donations can be made in Mary’s name to the Beaver County Humane Society.

Mary Ann Chufe (1939-2024)

Mary Ann Chufe, 84, of New Brighton, passed away on August 23, 2024 at Heritage Valley Beaver.

She was born on October 24, 1939, in New Brighton, the daughter of the late Peter and Florence (Ours) Hildebrand. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Frank M. Chufe, Sr., a brother, Donnie Ours, a sister and brother-in-law, Alice and William Fusco and daughter in-law Tracy (Hostutler) Chufe.

Mary Ann is survived by a daughter, Lorraine (Jerry) Goodwald of Mound, Minnesota; son, Frank M. Chufe Jr., multiple grandchildren and great grandchildren, two brothers, Richard (Elaine) Hildebrand, Charles Hildebrand, several nieces, nephews and their families.

Mary Ann was a member of Holy Family Church in New Brighton, part of Our Lady of the Valley Parish.

A Mass of Christian burial will be held Saturday, August 31, 2024, at 10 a.m. in Holy Family Church of New Brighton.

She will be laid to rest with her husband, Frank, Sr. in St. Joseph Cemetery of New Brighton.

A special thank you is given to Sue Grosetti for her long-time devotion and care to Mary Ann, along with the many other girls that spent their time caring for Mary Ann, the family is forever grateful to them.

Carol L. Mathis (1955-2024)

Carol L. Mathis, 69, of Brighton Township, formerly of New Brighton, passed away on August 23, 2024, at Good Samaritan Hospice House of Wexford.

She was born on April 29, 1955, in Pittsburgh, the daughter of the late Dale and Barbara (Reed) Kuhn. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her brother, Ronald Kuhn. She is survived by her husband of 48 years, Frederick Mathis, son, Brian (Jennifer) Mathis, daughter, Lisa Joy Mathis, grandchildren, Andrew and Kaitlyn Mathis, brother, Keith (Patricia) Kuhn, special friend Diana Garmen, and many nieces and nephews.

Carol graduated from Richland High School and Lillian S. Kaufman School of Nursing.  She worked as a nurse at Rochester Hospital and in 1980 moved to The Medical Center.  Later she worked for Dr. Funkhouser and WIC. She enjoyed camping with family and spending time with her grandchildren.  She also enjoyed traveling around the country with her husband.

Friends will be welcomed on Tuesday, August 27, from 2-4 p.m. and 6-8 p.m., in the J&J Spratt Funeral Home, 1612 3rd Avenue, New Brighton, and an additional viewing on Wednesday, August 28, from 10 a.m. until the time of the funeral at 11 a.m., in the New Brighton Methodist Church, 1033 6th Avenue, New Brighton, with Pastor Gary Hilton officiating.

Private inurnment will take place at Sylvania Hills Memorial Park of Rochester.

Dr. Elpidio D. “Doc” Damazo (1931-2024)

Dr. Elpidio D. “Doc” Damazo, 92, of Chippewa Township passed away on August 23, 2024 at Celebration Villa of Chippewa.

He was born on November 18, 1931, in the Philippines, the son of the late Jose and Leonila (Dimacali) Damazo. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his loving wife, Natividad (Simsuangco) Damazo; and his siblings, Percy Damazo and Elena Iturralde.

He is survived by his children, Dennis (Kathy) Damazo, Darla (Michael) Moore, Dana (Chris) Cummings, and Dale (Nicole) Damazo; grandchildren, DJ (Kristland), Tyler (Megan), Noah (Emily), Aaron, Eva, Olivia, Carly, Gianna, Ian, Kayla (Eric), Alexa, Conner, Zachary, Landon, and Emma; 4 great-grandchildren, Malachi, Simeon, Josiah, and Sutton; nieces, nephews, and numerous friends.

Dr. Elpidio received his Doctorate of Medicine from Manila Central University in 1957 and went on to open his own successful family practice with his late wife, Natividad.  He was an avid golfer, loved vacationing with family, and attending the sporting and musical events of his grandchildren.  He and Natividad were sports fans, especially the Pittsburgh Steelers, having had season tickets for many years.

Friends will be received on Friday, August 30th from 5-8 P.M. in the GABAUER-LUTTON FUNERAL HOME & CREMATION SERVICES, INC., 117 Blackhawk Road, Beaver Falls.

Prayers will be offered in the funeral home on Saturday, August 31st at 9:30 A.M. followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 10 A.M. at St. Monica Church of St. Augustine Parish, 116 Thorndale Drive, Beaver Falls with Fr. Kim Schreck as celebrant.

Interment will follow in St. Mary’s Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in Doc’s honor may be made to the Chippewa Township Volunteer Fire Department, or St. Monica Church of St. Augustine Parish.

Doc’s family wishes to extend a special Thank You to the staff of Celebration Villa as well as Gateway Hospice for taking such great care of him during his final days.

Sameh R. Rafla (1963-2024)

Sameh R. Rafla, 60, of Sewickley, peacefully passed away at home on August 22, 2024. He was born on December 14, 1963. He is survived by his devoted wife of 22 years, Cherine Rafla; his children, John and Julie Rafla, his brother, Hany Rafla, and his wife, Suzanne; and his sister, Mona and her husband Father Bishoy Mikhail. Funeral services were held at Saint Mary’s Coptic Orthodox Church of Ambridge, at 10:30 AM on Saturday, August 24 and burial followed at Resurrection Cemetery in Moon Township. Arrangements were entrusted to Alvarez Hahn Funeral Services and Cremation, LLC, 547 8th Street, Ambridge.