Gas prices are a penny lower in Western Pennsylvania this week at $3.835 per gallon, according to AAA East Central’s Gas Price Report.
The national average for a gallon of gas has remained steady over the past week at $3.65. Lackluster domestic demand and lower oil prices have helped stabilize prices at the pump. Today’s national average is six cents more than a month ago and 11 cents more than a year ago.
The currecnt average price for a gallon of gas in Beaver County is $3.88.
Robert D. “Bob” Dietz, 79, of Daugherty Twp passed away Friday May 3, 2024, in his residence.
Born July 22,1944 in Rochester, Pa, he was the son of the late Joseph F. and Mabel A. (Seaburn) Dietz. Bob was a graduate of New Brighton High School Class of 62.
Upon graduation he went to work for the Pittsburgh Tube Co. working in the water treatment facility, retiring in 1996 after 32 years of service.
He proudly served his community in various positions including coaching stints with the NB Little Lions football program and NB Bantam Basketball. Bob was the scorekeeper for the NB Men’s Varsity Basketball team during the glory years of the ‘90s. He was a former firefighter with the Daugherty Twp VFD and a frequent volunteer at Grove Cemetery.
A member and trustee of the New Brighton Eagles for over 30 years, he was the driving force behind the infamous “Kitchen Crew” that served countless banquets, weddings, graduations, and community events such as team feeds for the youth and high school sports teams. Those steaks, eagle beans and buffets were world famous!
Bob was an avid Pittsburgh sports fan and had a passion for the game of softball where he held the titles of Beaver County Men’s Commissioner and ASA District 9 Deputy Commissioner working alongside the great Guy DeMaio. They helped transform what tournament softball is all about here in our region. He played on various local teams including Babe’s Bar, The Hideout, Joey’s, NB Eagles, JJ’s Lounge, Suburban Lounge, Scoreboard Lounge and Corbin’s to name a few. His Blatz teams in the ‘70s and ‘80s were a dynasty loaded with local talent. His teams set the standard for the way the game was to be played and resulted in multiple championships and a runner up finish in the ASA Class A open division. He was also a player/coach for the Pittsburgh Hardhats, who played in the American Professional Slow Pitch League. Bob is by far the winningest coach in Beaver County Men’s Softball history.
His favorite hobbies were tending to his pool (which included an ever-standing open door policy), riding his John Deere tractor, listening to Pink Floyd, attending his grandkids sporting events, vacationing on Hilton Head Island and fondueing with the family.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by sisters Judith Anderson and Louise Hartsuff. Brothers William Hartsuff, Hiram Hartsuff, William Dietz, Roger Dietz, Joseph Dietz. Uncles Paul, Mike Dietz and his parents-in-law E. Benton and Helen Early
Bob is survived by his loving wife Sandra (Early) Dietz, with whom he would have shared a 60th wedding anniversary on October 3, 2024. His children Rob (Sue) Dietz of New Brighton, PA, Tracy (Matt) Peterson of East Palestine, OH, and Mike (Beth) Dietz of Portersville, PA.
11 Grandchildren Matt (Tiaira) Dietz, Chelsea (Puff) Razo, Drew (Lindsey) Dietz, Lindsey (Ethan) Brown, Ashley Peterson, Zach (Marissa) Peterson, Meghan, Briana, Rachel, Abigail and Ryan Dietz.
8 Great Grandchildren Gianni Dietz, Twins Ava & Aza, Auni and Ledger Razo, Skylar and Hadley Peterson, Bryson Brown
He is also survived by his twin brother and partner in crime Paul D. Dietz. Sisters-in-law Sue Hansen, Toni (Don) Tustin, Terri McNaughton and Colleen (Ron) Fabritius, as well as many nieces, nephews and cousins.
Per Bob’s wishes there will be no visitation. Interment will be private. The family would like to extend an invitation to attend a celebration of his life on Sunday July 21, 2024, from 2-6pm at the Oak Hill Vets Association located at 1 Laurel Ave New Brighton, PA 15066
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in Bob’s name may be made to Grove Cemetery 1750 Valley Ave PO Box 46 New Brighton, PA 15066. Online condolences may be shared at Gabauerfamilyfuneralhomes.com.
In closing… Bob was our hero. He instilled the values that remain with us today. How to be kind, compassionate and caring towards people. To respect the things that you have and always offer help to others. His door was always open, and he would share countless stories and advice about life in general. He was the kindest man we knew. Rest easy dear Father. We Love You!
The GABAUER FUNERAL HOME & CREMATION SERVICES, INC., 1133 Penn Ave., New Brighton, was honored to provide care and guidance to Bob’s family during this difficult time.
Bennie W. Riley, 63, of Ambridge passed away at home on May 3, 2024. He was the youngest son of Perline Knox and the late Henry C. Riley. He was preceded in death by a brother, David Hardman, paternal grandmother, Momma Riley. He is survived by his best friend and wife of 15 years, Tracey L. Riley, oldest son, William Anderson and fiancé, Amber Sabella, siblings, Mike (Jeanette) Riley, grandchildren Kiara Marie Anderson, Sophia Ellen Anderson, nieces, Macy Riley, Stephanie Hardman, Maria Hardman-Lanier, nephews, Kyle Riley, Matt Cawthon, Ben Cawthon, Darren Hardman, Cameron Hardman, Cody Hardman, Dalton Hardman, DJ Hardman, and numerous great nieces and nephews. A celebration of life will be held on Saturday, May 18, 2024, from 4-6 PM in the Alvarez-Hahn Funeral Services and Cremation, LLC., 547 8th Street, Ambridge, 724-266-2549.
Story by Curtis Walsh – Beaver County Radio. Published May 6, 2024 2:33 P.M.
(Rochester Township, Pa) Western Pennsylvania democratic campaign coordinators opened a new office in Rochester Township on Sunday. The office will be dedicated to mobilizing and organizing voters and communities ahead of the November election with the goal of reelecting Joe Biden, Bob Casey and democrats across the ballot.
Congressman Chris Deluzio was in attendance for the opening. During his speech he said, “I think were going to hold the line, I think there are more people in this country, in Western Pennsylvania, in Beaver County, who believe in the promise of America, who think we can govern ourselves. We can have elections where we respect the consequences, and when we do that by the way, we’re gonna win.”
Nikki Lu, state campaign manager for the Pennsylvania Democratic coordinated campaign said:
“We’ll continue to highlight the contrast between Joe Biden and Kamala Harris’ work to cap the cost of insulin at $35 a month for seniors, help create 500,000 good paying jobs in Pennsylvania alone, and protect our democracy and reproductive freedoms, and Donald Trump’s threats to repeal the Affordable Care Act, cut Social Security and Medicare, and be a dictator on ‘day one.’”
The office is located at 426 Adams Street Rochester, PA 15074.
(Pittsburgh, PA) Provident Charter School (PCS) proudly announces a groundbreaking milestone in its innovative approach to education. PCS, a free public charter school designed for children with dyslexia, is thrilled to celebrate the achievement of its first black belt recipients in Tae Kwon Do. This honor marks a significant moment not only for the students but also for the school, as it underscores the effectiveness of its unique curriculum.
Since its inception in 2016, Provident Charter School has distinguished itself by offering a comprehensive educational experience tailored to the needs of students with dyslexia. Central to its approach is the integration of Tae Kwon Do, a martial art renowned for its focus on discipline, perseverance, and self-control. Under the guidance of Grandmaster Zang, students at PCS have embraced this holistic approach to learning, demonstrating remarkable progress and personal growth.
The journey of these exceptional students began humbly as white belts, but through dedication, resilience, and a commitment to excellence, they have risen to the esteemed rank of black belt. By embodying values such as perseverance, compassion, and self-control, these students have not only mastered the physical techniques of Tae Kwon Do but have also cultivated essential life skills that will serve them well beyond the confines of the dojo.
On June 3, 2024, Provident Charter School will proudly bestow black belts upon its inaugural group of recipients. This ceremony represents more than just a symbolic achievement; it is a testament to the transformative power of education when combined with innovative approaches tailored to the individual needs of students.
“We are immensely proud of our students’ accomplishments and the dedication they have shown throughout their journey,” said Maria Paluselli, CEO. “This milestone not only reflects their personal growth but also reaffirms our commitment to providing a holistic and empowering educational experience for children with dyslexia.”
As Provident Charter School continues to pioneer new approaches to education, the achievement of its first black belt recipients serves as a beacon of inspiration for students, educators, and communities alike. Through a steadfast dedication to innovation, inclusion, and excellence, PCS is shaping the future of education one black belt at a time.
Story by Sandy Giordano – Beaver County Radio. Published May 6, 2024 12:34 P.M.
(Aliquippa, Pa) PA State Police were on patrol Saturday night and attempted to stop a vehicle operated by 37 year old Zachary Constantine at Tyler and Division Streets. The report stated the officer pursued the vehicle for 1 1/2 miles and Constantine was found to be impaired and in possession of suspected marijuana and heroin. He was taken into custody and refused to take a blood test at Heritage Valley Hospital. Charges are pending against Constantine and will be filed at the district justice’s office.
Story by Sandy Giordano – Beaver County Radio. Published May 6, 2024 12:30 P.M.
(Baden, Pa) Over 500 signatures have been received on a petition to keep Baden Academy open. The Ambridge School Board will hold a special meeting at the high school at 6 pm Wednesday. Baden Academy has classes for grades K-6 and parents want to keep it open. Ambridge School district has been in talks to not renew the school’s charter.
Pittsburgh, PA – PennDOT District 11 is announcing a single-lane restriction on westbound I-376 (Beaver Valley Expressway) in Brighton Township, Beaver County, will occur Tuesday through Friday, May 7-10 weather permitting.
Inspection activities on the bridge that carries I-376 over Brady’s Run Park between the Chippewa/Route 51 (Exit 31) and Brighton (Exit 36) interchanges will require a single-lane restriction in the westbound direction daily from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Tuesday through Friday, May 10. Flaggers will assist large vehicles through the work zone as needed.
Please use caution in the area.
Story by Sandy Giordano – Beaver County Radio. Published May 6, 2024 12:27 P.M.
(Hopewell Township, Pa) On Tuesday May 14, 2024 at 7 pm, PNC Bank and Dan Engen representing DRAW COLLECTIVE, an architectural firm hired by the district last year, will be on hand to further discuss the district’s options on whether to consolidate the district’s 5 buildings to 2 or 3 due to enrollment trends and budgetary resources. On Saturday, May 18, 2024 beginning at noon, a community meeting will be held. On Tuesday, June 11, 2024 at 7 pm, DRAW COLLECTIVE will make its final presentation of durable school options. All meetings will be held in the high school auditorium and a link to view the meetings virtually will be made available prior to each meeting, according to the School Board Secretary Nancy Barber.
Michael Guy Schmidt, 72, of Baden, passed away on May 4, 2024, at the Pittsburgh VA Medical Center.
Born on November 21, 1951 in Pittsburgh, he was a son of the late Howard and Dorothy (McChesney) Schmidt. He is survived by his loving wife, Karen (Butt) Schmidt, children, Kristen (Jeff) Ninehouser, Bryan Mazzetti, Timothy Mazzetti, and Daniel (Christine) Mazzetti, grandchildren, Dominic, Brooklynn, Bentley, Christopher, Emily, Shawn, Logan, Olivia, Allison, Luca and Lena, sister, Dorsey Faix, and brothers, Peter and Mark Schmidt, along with several nieces and nephews. Michael was a proud veteran of the United States Marine Corp, having served in Vietnam. He was retired from the former Penn Pavilion and was a member of the American Legion Post 641. He loved trains and living life to the fullest. More than anything else, he loved his family, especially his beloved grandchildren.
Friends will be welcomed Wednesday May 8, 2024 from 2-4 p.m. and 6-8 p.m., in the J&J Spratt Funeral Home, 1612 3rd Avenue, New Brighton, and Thursday May 9, 2024 from 9 a.m. until the time of service at 10 a.m.
In lieu of flowers the family asks that donations be made to Disabled American Veterans at https://help.dav.org/donate.