Author: Beaver County Radio

AAA: Gas Prices Trending Lower in PA

Gas prices are a penny lower in Western Pennsylvania this week at $3.759 per gallon, according to AAA East Central’s Gas Price Report.

This week’s average prices: Western Pennsylvania Average                         $3.759
Average price during the week of July 1, 2024                                                 $3.764
Average price during the week of July 10, 2023                                               $3.623

The average price of unleaded self-serve gasoline in various areas:      

$3.645      Altoona
$3.876      Beaver
$3.802      Bradford
$3.595      Brookville
$3.728      Butler
$3.674      Clarion
$3.655      DuBois
$3.737      Erie
$3.698      Greensburg
$3.659      Indiana
$3.800      Jeannette
$3.855      Kittanning
$3.821      Latrobe
$3.756      Meadville
$3.918      Mercer
$3.719      New Castle
$3.650      New Kensington
$3.859      Oil City
$3.743      Pittsburgh
$3.690      Sharon
$3.831      Uniontown
$3.898      Warren
$3.749      Washington

Trend Analysis:
In the wake of the Independence Day holiday, gas prices are up a penny since last week to $3.50. Even though pump prices increased slightly, Americans still saw the lowest gasoline prices in three years over the July Fourth weekend. Today’s national average is five cents more than a month ago but three cents less than a year ago.

Oil prices are edging lower so far this week even as traders monitor the potential effect of Tropical Storm Beryl on U.S. production and operations. Major ports in Texas closed operations and vessel traffic as Beryl strengthened after making landfall along the Gulf Coast near Houston.                      

Motorists can find current gas prices nationwide, statewide, and countywide at gasprices.aaa.com.

Pennsylvania State Police Reports 774 Crashes, 556 DUI Arrests During Independence Day Weekend

Harrisburg, PA – The Pennsylvania State Police (PSP) today released the results of its annual Independence Day weekend enforcement detail, which aimed to strengthen roadway safety across the Commonwealth.

The PSP investigated 774 vehicle crashes resulting in 11 fatalities and 244 injuries July 3-7. Intoxicated driving was a factor in 64 crashes, including four fatal crashes.

During the five days, troopers arrested 556 motorists for driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs and issued 28,429 citations, including:

  • 7,975 for speeding;
  • 876 for failing to wear a seat belt;
  • 225 for not securing children in safety seats.

Table 1: Independence Day Weekend Crash Statistics

Year Total Crashes Fatal Crashes People Killed People Injured DUI Crashes DUI-Related Fatal Crashes
2024 (5 days) 774 11 11 244 64 4
2023 (5 days) 668 3 3 194 59 0

 

Table 2: Independence Day Weekend Enforcement Statistics

Year DUI Arrests Speeding Citations Child Seat Citations Seat Belt Citations Other Citations
2024 (5 days) 556 7,975 225 876 19,353
2023 (5 days) 505 7,929 210 845 14,754

 

More information on 2024 Memorial Day enforcement, broken down by Troop, is available here.

These statistics cover only those incidents investigated by the state police and do not include incidents to which other law enforcement agencies responded.

For more statistical information on the Pennsylvania State Police, visit psp.pa.gov.

New License Plates & Highway Welcome Signs announced for PA

Harrisburg, PA – After Independence Day and following his launch of Pennsylvania’s Great American Getaway tourism brand, Governor Josh Shapiro today unveiled new Pennsylvania license plates and “Welcome to Pennsylvania” highway signs. The “Let Freedom Ring” designs celebrate Pennsylvania as the birthplace of American democracy and highlight the state’s leading role in the celebrations of the United States in 2026.

 

“Pennsylvania is the birthplace of our democracy, and as Governor, I have been focused on advancing real freedom across the Commonwealth,” said Governor Josh Shapiro. “With all eyes on Pennsylvania as we prepare to host our country’s 250th birthday in 2026, our new license plates and welcome signs will celebrate the best of what the Commonwealth has to offer and show the country why Pennsylvania is the Great American Getaway and the birthplace of American freedom.”

 

The new designs complement the Pennsylvania: The Great American Getaway brand, underscoring that tourism is a key priority within the Governor’s economic development strategy. A report unveiled by the Pennsylvania Tourism Office in March shows Pennsylvania’s tourism industry generated $76.7 billion in economic impact, supported 486,871 jobs, contributed $4.7 billion in state and local taxes, and welcomed 192.4 million visitors in 2022 – and the nearly 72 million people who live within a four-hour drive of thousands of getaways and experiences in Pennsylvania will now see the new designs upon entering the Commonwealth.

 

Pennsylvania is a premier weekend getaway destination within close driving proximity to major hubs along the East Coast – and our main streets and small towns, world class restaurants and bars, renowned historical sites, thrilling outdoor recreation, and top tier events and sports can be experienced in a single weekend.

The new welcome signs installed at state-border entry points invite visitors and residents to celebrate Pennsylvania’s legacy of and commitment to advancing real freedom. The first eight signs have been installed on U.S. 15 in Adams County; I-295 in Bucks County; I-90/the Ohio line in Erie County; I-70 in Fulton County; I-80 in Monroe County; Route 449 in Potter County; I-81 in Susquehanna County; and Route 1015 in Tioga County. Another 29 signs will be installed in the coming months.

 

Pennsylvanians can also now sign up to receive an email update when the new license plates are ready to order in spring 2025. When the plates become available, an email will be sent explaining how vehicle owners can request one for their vehicle from the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT). Military, special organization, special fund, and specialty plates without legislatively mandated designs will also be updated with the new design.

 

When the plates become available, fee information will be included with replacement instructions on PennDOT’s website and will vary based on plate type and any optional personalization. The department and its partners will use all existing standard issue license plate inventory before transitioning to the new plate design.

 

Lillian (Silvestri) DiCioccio (February 10, 1938 – July 5, 2024)

Lillian Domenica (Silvestri) DiCioccio, 86 of Moon Township passed away with her loving family by her side on July 5, 2024.
She was born February 10, 1938, in Pacentro, Italy and is the daughter of the late Guiseppe and Elisa (Roncone) Silvestri. Lillian was also reunited with her beloved husband Pasquale A. DiCioccio who preceded her in death in 2009.
She was a member of Most Sacred Heart of Jesus Parish, Saint Margaret and Mary Church, Moon Township.
Lillian was an avid gardener. She planted an array of vegetables every year and graciously shared her bounty with family and friends. If you were to broach Lillian with politics, she enjoyed listening to one’s point of view and then relished debating what she didn’t agree with. She was devoted to her family and cherished the time they spent together. Her devotion and love will forever remain in the hearts she leaves behind.
Lillian was blessed with two loving children: Deborah Ann DiCioccio, Joseph DiCioccio and his wife Chele Lee who Lillian loved like her daughter. Two cherished grandsons who were truly the apple of Lillian’s eye, Tyler Joseph DiCioccio and Jason Patrick DiCioccio. A special sister, Frances (Mario) Pacella and several nieces and nephews.
Visitation will be Wednesday from 10:00 am until the time of departing prayers at 11:15 am in the Anthony Mastrofrancesco Funeral Home Inc. 2026 McMinn Street, Aliquippa, PA 15001.
A Mass of Christian burial will follow at 12 noon at St. Margaret and Mary Church Moon Township.
Private Interment will follow at Mr. Olivet Cemetery.

 

To send flowers or a memorial gift to the family of Lillian (Silvestri) DiCioccio please visit our Sympathy Store.

Mark Schaub (July 24, 1958 – July 05, 2024)

Mark Schaub, 65, of Rochester Twp., PA passed away on Friday, July 5, 2024, in his residence.

He was born on July 24, 1958, to Clifford and Helen (Rush) Schaub.

He is survived by his loving wife of 5 years, Veronica (Zassick) Schaub; three daughters, Maribeth Swogger, Melissa DeSalvo, and Megan Mattic; eight grandchildren; and his K-9 companions, Daphne and Velma.

Per Mark’s request, there will be no public visitation.

William James “Weasel” Early October 23, 1966 – July 03, 2024

William James “Weasel” Early, 57, of New Brighton passed away on Wednesday, July 3, 2024, in his residence.

Friends will be received on Thursday, July 11, 2024 from 4:30 PM to 7:00 PM in the GABAUER FUNERAL HOME & CREMATION SERVICES, INC., 1133 Penn Ave., New Brighton, 15066.

A complete obituary will appear shortly.

Richard A. Albanese (August 16, 1939 – July 07, 2024)

Richard A. Albanese, 84, of New Brighton, died Sunday July 7, 2024, at Good Samaritan Hospice, Wexford.

Born August 16, 1939, in New Brighton, he was the son of the late Lorenzo and Teresa (Pontieri) Albanese. A member of the Concord Church in Beaver Falls, he was also a member of Masonic Lodge #259, the American Legion Post #19, the Fraternal Order of Eagles #1342, and New Brighton Boosters. Richard was retired from the Aviation Center at CCBC.

He is survived by his wife of 57 years, Darlene (Wickline) Albanese; a son, Richard J. (Mandy) Albanese; two brothers, Thomas (Joan) and Donald (Suzanne) Albanese; a brother-in-law, William Wickline; a sister-in-law, Barbara Wickline; two grandsons, Joseph and Alexander Albanese; also, several nieces, nephews, and friends.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a son, Robbie; and three brothers, David, Carl, and Lawrence Albanese.

Friends will be received on Wednesday, July 10th from 1:00pm-4:00 pm and 6:00p pm -8:00 pm in the GABAUER FUNERAL HOME & CREMATION SVCS, INC.- 1133 Penn Ave New Brighton. He will lie in state on Thursday, July 11th from 10:00 am until the time of services at 11:00 am at the Concord Church- 285 Concord Church Rd., Beaver Falls, Pa 15010.

Private interment will follow in the church cemetery.

Members of the Beaver County Special Unit will meet at 10:40 am at the Church Thursday for full military honors.

Members of the Masonic Lodge will conduct a service Wednesday at 7:45 pm in the funeral home.

 

Theresa R. Mittner (August 1, 1930 ~ July 7, 2024)

Theresa R. Mittner, 93, entered the gates of heaven on July 7, 2024, just shy of her 94th birthday, surrounded by her loving children and grandchildren. Born August 1, 1930, in Big Mine Run, PA, a small coal miner town, she was the daughter of the late Stanley Royac and Mary (Dudash). She was the youngest of seven children. She graduated from Butler Township High School, Fountain Springs, PA, in 1948 Known as Terry to her friends, she was a lady in the truest sense. She was a loving wife of 63 years to her late husband, George E. Mittner, whom she missed terribly. She was the mother to Denise Mittner Adkins and her husband Larry of Worthington, KY, David G. Mittner Millerstown, PA, Donald J. Mittner and his wife Aliene New Brighton, PA, and Diane Mittner-D’Addio and her husband Andre Wampum, PA. She was the grandmother to Dustin, Josh, and Desiree Adkins, Jeremy and Jay Mittner, Lauren, Andrew, his wife Jocelyn and Alexander Mittner, and Adrianna D’Addio. The great-grandmother to seven wonderful great-grandchildren, in addition, she is survived by her best friend since seventh grade, Kitty Gorman, who will truly miss her. Terry was a very supportive mother and grandmother. She rarely missed an event that her children and grandchildren participated in and was quick to volunteer and help out when needed. In 1975, she was the President of the New Brighton Band Parents. In 1980, she was the President of the New Brighton Football Mothers. After being a stay-at-home mom and raising her four children, she became a stellar salesperson at Kaufmann’s and Fashion Bug and always greeted everyone with a genuine smile. However, she was known most for her feistiness and facial expressions. Soon after, she retired to care for her grandchildren, whom she loved deeply. Terry was preceded in death by her husband, George E. Mittner; her parents, her mother-in-law, Mildred Mittner; her granddaughter, Stephanie M. Mittner; her sisters, Helen Rutkousky, Anna Yushock, and Mary Weinreich; and her brothers, Charles Medrick, Michael Medrick, and Andrew Medrick. Terry was an Our Lady of the Valley Parish church member, where she enjoyed Wednesday night Bingo for years. The family would like to thank Vitas Hospice, specifically Sara, Heather, and Pastor Don, for their generous care and her caretakers, Lisa, Donna, and Dee. Terry was truly loved by all who knew her. She never failed to make people laugh, even in her final moments. The Mittner children are at peace knowing their parents are together and dancing with the angels. Friends will be received Friday, July 12, from 5:00 to 8:00 pm at J&J Spratt Funeral Home, 1612 Third Ave, New Brighton, PA. Prayers will be held Saturday at 9:30 a.m. in the funeral home, followed by a Mass of Christian burial at 10:00 a.m. at Our Lady of the Valley Parish (Holy Family Church), Seventh Avenue, New Brighton. Interment will follow in St Joseph Catholic Cemetery, New Brighton, where she will be laid to rest with her husband George. In lieu of flowers, please consider donating in her name to the New Brighton Education Foundation at 3200 43rd Street, New Brighton, PA 15066.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Theresa R. Mittner, please visit our floral store.

Man ejected from car in Chippewa Township accident

Story by Beaver County Radio News Staff. Published July 8, 2024 12:32 P.M.

(Chippewa Township, Pa) State Police in Beaver report that they responded to a single vehicle accident with injury on June 30th. The crash took place on I-376 in Chippewa. Police say the driver, identified as 31 year old Derrick Alan, drifted into the center median cable barrier while traveling west. He eventually struck a guard rail and rolled 3 times into the east bound lanes. Alan was ejected from the vehicle sunroof while rolling. He was transported to the hospital for suspected serious injuries.

Beaver Police holding breakfast for Seniors

Story by Sandy Giordano – Beaver County Radio. Published July 8, 2024 12:30 P.M.

(Beaver, Pa) Monday, July 8 was the first breakfast for seniors with the Beaver Police Department. Beaver Police Detective DeGori joined seniors at the Center at the Mall Congregate Room to present a Summer Scam Series Breakfast.

Seniors will be able to gain valuable information on scams affecting seniors in our area and beyond, such as elder fraud, romance scams, social engineering, grandparents scams and more. The next 2 events are Monday, August 19, 2024, and September 23, 2024.
The events are sponsored by the Center at the mall, Beaver Police Department, and the County’s Office on Aging.