Category: News

Lawyer: Man Fatally Beat Father He Thought Was A Vampire

HEMPFIELD, Pa. (AP) — A man who says he fatally beat his 92-year-old father in their home because he believed his father was a vampire has been sentenced to 10 to 30 years in prison. Douglas Novak pleaded guilty but mentally ill last November to murder, arson, reckless endangerment and risking a catastrophe charges. Authorities have said he fatally beat Frank Novak with the wooden arm of a dining room chair. Novak’s lawyer said Thursday that his client was off his medication when he attacked his father. But prosecutors say Novak told police he beat his father because the older man was hiding his phone.

Hugh Downs, genial presence on TV news and game shows, dies

Hugh Downs, genial presence on TV news and game shows, dies
By DAVID BAUDER AP Media Writer
NEW YORK (AP) — Hugh Downs, a genial and near-constant presence on television from the 1950s through the 1990s, has died. His family said Downs died of natural causes Wednesday night in Scottsdale, Arizona. Downs was a host of the ‘Today” show on NBC, worked on the “Tonight” show when Jack Paar was in charge, and hosted the long-running game show “Concentration.” He co-hosted the ABC newsmagazine ’20/20’ with Barbara Walters. Until surpassed by Regis Philbin, he had the Guinness Book of World Records mark for most hours logged on television. Downs also hosted the PBS series “Over Easy” and “Live from Lincoln Center.”

‘Truly alarming’: Officials voice concern over virus spike in Allegheny County

‘Truly alarming’: Officials voice concern over virus spike
By MARC LEVY Associated Press
HARRISBURG, Pa. (AP) — Pennsylvania reported its highest one-day total of confirmed coronavirus cases since May. Allegheny County, home to Pittsburgh and 1.2 million residents, also reported its highest one-day total of positive tests that officials called a larger increase than expected. Thursday’s rising figures, and rising rate of positive tests, come as health officials in Philadelphia and Allegheny County point to people socializing in bars and returning from beach vacations and coronavirus hot spots. Pennsylvania reported more than 830 new positive cases of COVID-19. It also reported another 25 coronavirus-related deaths. Allegheny County reported more than 230 more new positive tests. Lt. Gov. John Fetterman called the figure “truly alarming.”

Pa. State Troopers Continue Investigation into 15 Year Old on June 15, 2020: Reveal Shot In a Car Not Linmar Terrace

Story by Beaver County Radio News Correspondent Sandy Giordano

(Aliquippa, Pa.) PA State Police issued a press release into the June 15 shooting of a fifteen year-old female  in Aliquippa at 1:20 a.m.. Aliquippa PD responded to Linmar Terrace , they provided medical attention  for a gunshot wound. The victim was transported to a nearby hospital.  State Police were called to assist.  After further investigation  it was determined the shooting occurred  within the city limits while she was in a moving vehicle, and not in Linmar Terrace.

Anyone with info regarding the  incident  is asked to contact TrooperBryan Boughter at PSP Beaver Barracks  724-773-7400

Pa. Rep. Josh Kail to Host Household Paper Shredding Event on July 18

CENTER – Rep. Josh Kail (R-Beaver/Washington) will be hosting an Identity Theft Prevention and Community Shredding Event for households of the 15th District on Saturday, July 18, from 9-11 a.m. in his district office parking lot, 3648 Brodhead Road, Monaca.

The event, which will feature an on-site industrial paper shredder, will provide the opportunity for residents to shred up to two large boxes of materials. The boxes will be returned to residents.

“While COVID-19 prevented many of the events I had scheduled for this year, we are able to safely hold the shredding event,” Kail said. “Identity theft is even more of a risk because of the financial desperation so many people are feeling, so it’s especially important to safely dispose of sensitive documents.”

Paper will not be accepted from businesses or organizations. Only paper, not cardboard or CDs, will be accepted. Staples and paper clips need not be removed. All shredding takes place on-site, and the event will be held rain or shine.

Shredding services will be provided by ShredAmerica Iron City. The event is sponsored by EQT. It is not necessary to register for the event, but residents who would like to learn more are asked to call the district office at 724-728-7655.

PennDOT, AAA Issue Safe Driving Reminder Ahead of Independence Day Holiday

Pittsburgh, PA – The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) and AAA East Central today urged the public to drive sober over the Independence Day holiday.

 The safety partners reminded the public of the dangers of operating a vehicle while impaired by drugs or alcohol. Such substances weaken a person’s judgement, balance, vision, reaction time and decision-making abilities, creating a dangerous situation on the roadway and water around them.

 The Independence Day holiday is widely celebrated in the United States with many Americans making plans to celebrate with family and friends. While the usual options such as large celebrations, block parties and outings to local businesses are not available this year, many may resort to backyard parties and barbeques where there is plenty of alcohol. If drinking becomes part of the plan for celebrating, it is important to put safety first, especially while behind the wheel and celebrating the holiday.

 Party-goers are urged to plan ahead for travel accommodations. Be sure to have a designated driver to ensure your safety and the safety of others on the road. Options include asking a friend or family member for a ride, downloading a ride share app or utilizing public transportation.

 According to 2019 PennDOT data, there were 2,917 crashes that resulted in 40 fatalities statewide during the week leading into the Independence Day holiday last year. Of these crashes, at least 334 were drug or alcohol-related.

 Motorists practicing responsible driving is key to significantly reducing impaired driving crashes and fatalities, which are 100 percent preventable. There is no excuse for driving under the influence.

 For more information on impaired driving, visit www.PennDOT.gov/Safety.

 For regional twitter updates, visit www.twitter.com/511PAPittsburgh.

John Lee, MD, Named Chief Medical Information Officer for AHN

Pittsburgh, PA (July 2, 2020) – Allegheny Health Network (AHN) today announced that John S. Lee, MD, has been appointed as the organization’s new Chief Medical Information Officer (CMIO), effective immediately.  Dr. Lee succeeds Robert White, MD, who announced his plans for retirement earlier this year.  Dr. White will stay with AHN through the end of the year to help support a seamless transition.

Dr. Lee joins AHN from Edward-Elmhurst Healthcare, based in Naperville, Ill., where he has served as CMIO since 2016.  At AHN, Dr. Lee will assume oversight of the network’s electronic health record integration and optimization as well as direct all strategies and technological solutions related to the convergence and utilization of telemedicine, population health management and health care analytics.  In this capacity, he’ll work closely with network and Highmark Health clinical and executive leaders in assessing, designing and implementing clinical support systems that maximize quality, safety, patient engagement, and process improvement.

In 2019, all eight of AHN’s acute care hospitals were recognized as Most Wired® providers by the College of Healthcare Information Management Executives (CHIME).  Most Wired® is the industry-leading survey and recognition relative to IT implementation, integration and innovation in health systems across the country.   AHN is one of the nation’s largest health system’s with a singular electronic health record (Epic) that integrates all affiliated sites of care, including now 12 hospitals, five large Health + Wellness Pavilions and other outpatient care facilities, and hundreds of physician practices.

In addition to implementing systems such as Epic, Most Wired® designated organizations are those that have deployed technologies and strategies such as population health and cost-of-care analytics, telehealth, and patient portals, to expand access to care and improve clinical and efficiency outcomes.

“Information technology has been the foundation of our success in building a transformative, physician-led and patient-centered model of care for our region,’ said Cynthia Hundorfean, AHN president.  “It takes exceptional talent and visionary leadership to sustain and continuously advance the IT systems we deploy, and we could not have found a more accomplished and qualified physician executive to take those reigns for our organization than Dr. Lee.”

An undergraduate of Johns Hopkins University, Dr. Lee earned his medical degree from the Loyola University of Chicago’s Stritch School of Medicine, and completed residencies at Cook County Hospital in Chicago. His professional affiliations include fellowship in the Healthcare Information and Management Systems Society (HIMSS).

Last year, Dr. Lee was named the Physician Executive Leader of the Year by both HIMSS and the Association of Medical Directors of Information Systems (AMDIS).

“AHN’s commitment to investing in a robust, leading-edge IT strategy and system that drives better healthcare value, outcomes and experiences for patients has been extraordinary,” said Dr. Lee. “I am thrilled to have the opportunity to help build upon the program’s success and to shape its future course as part of a blended health and wellness enterprise.”

Wolf Administration Urges Pennsylvanians to Avoid Large Gatherings, Wear Masks Over Holiday Weekend 

Wolf Administration Urges Pennsylvanians to Avoid Large Gatherings, Wear Masks Over Holiday Weekend 

Harrisburg, PA – As the holiday weekend approaches, the Wolf Administration is reminding Pennsylvanians to avoid large gatherings and to wear masks around other people to help prevent further spread of COVID-19. On July 1, Governor Tom Wolf announced an order, signed by Secretary of Health Dr. Levine, requiring masks to be worn whenever anyone leaves home.

“The green phase is not a green light to stop exercising caution in large “Although it is the holiday weekend, Pennsylvanians should refrain from attending large gatherings, and if you do go out and interact with others, wear a mask,” Sec. of Health Dr. Levine said. “My mask protects you, and your mask protects me. Wearing a mask shows that you care about others, and that you are committed to protecting the lives of those around you.”

On July 3, Lebanon County, the remaining county still in yellow, will join the green phase with the rest of the state. The green phase prohibits large gatherings of more than 250 people. The newly expanded mask-wearing order also requires mask-wearing in any public space, not just in businesses.

If you have traveled, or plan to travel, to an area where there are high amounts of COVID-19 cases, it is recommended that you stay at home for 14 days upon return to Pennsylvania. If you travel to the following states, you will need to quarantine for 14 days upon return:

  • Alabama
  • Arizona
  • Arkansas
  • California
  • Florida
  • Georgia
  • Idaho
  • Louisiana
  • Mississippi
  • Nevada
  • North Carolina
  • South Carolina
  • Tennessee
  • Texas
  • Utah

Pennsylvanians are encouraged to continue to practice social distancing and other preventive measures, including washing your hands frequently, covering coughs and sneezes, cleaning surfaces often, wearing a mask and staying home if you are sick to help reduce the spread of COVID-19.

As of 12:00 a.m., July 2, there were 88,074 positive cases of COVID-19 statewide in 67 counties and 6,712 total deaths attributed to COVID-19. Most of the patients hospitalized are 65 or older, and most of the deaths have occurred in patients 65 and older. There have been no pediatric deaths to date. More data is available here.

The Wolf Administration stresses the role Pennsylvanians play in helping to reduce the spread of COVID-19:

  • Wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds or use hand sanitizer if soap and water are not available.
  • Cover any coughs or sneezes with your elbow, not your hands.
  • Clean surfaces frequently.
  • Stay home to avoid spreading COVID-19, especially if you are unwell.
  • If you must go out for a life-sustaining reason, please wear a mask.

Updated Coronavirus Links: Press Releases, State Lab Photos, Graphics

All Pennsylvania residents are encouraged to sign up for AlertPA, a text notification system for health, weather, and other important alerts like COVID-19 updates from commonwealth agencies. Residents can sign up online at www.ready.pa.gov/BeInformed/Signup-For-Alerts.

For more information on ticks and Lyme disease, or on mosquitoes and West Nile virus, visit the Department of Health website at www.health.pa.gov or follow us on Facebook and Twitter.

PA Department of Health Provides Update on COVID-19, 7/02/20: Beaver County up Ten Cases and One New Death

Department of Health Provides Update on COVID-19, 832 Positives Bring Statewide Total to 88,074

Harrisburg, PA – The Pennsylvania Department of Health today confirmed as of 12:00 a.m., July 2, that there are 832 additional positive cases of COVID-19, bringing the statewide total to 88,074. All 67 counties in Pennsylvania have cases of COVID-19.

There are 6,712 total deaths attributed to COVID-19, an increase of 25 new deaths. County-specific information and a statewide map are available here.

Locally in Beaver County we are up 10 cases since yesterday at 688. 668 confirmed cases and 20 probables. 6362 people have tested negative and the county is up one death at 79.

“Our latest data shows that the number of COVID-19 cases is increasing across the state,” Secretary of Health Dr. Rachel Levine said. “The virus has not gone away. Each of us has a responsibility to continue to protect ourselves, our loved ones and others by wearing a mask, maintaining social distancing and washing our hands frequently. Together we can protect our most vulnerable Pennsylvanians, our essential workers and our healthcare system.”

As the holiday weekend approaches, it is essential that all Pennsylvanians take steps to protect themselves and those around them. Residents are encouraged to avoid large gatherings and to remember that mask-wearing is required in public settings and when around other people to prevent further spread of COVID-19.

According to an order signed by Secretary of Health, mask wearing is required whenever anyone leaves home. Consistent mask wearing is critical to preventing the spread of COVID-19.

There are 634 patients who have a positive serology test and either COVID-19 symptoms or a high-risk exposure, which are considered probable cases and not confirmed cases. There are 702,199 patients who have tested negative to date. Of the patients who have tested positive to date the age breakdown is as follows:

  • Nearly 1% are ages 0-4;
  • 1% are ages 5-12;
  • 2% are ages 13-18;
  • 7% are ages 19-24;
  • Nearly 37% are ages 25-49;
  • 24% are ages 50-64; and
  • 27% are ages 65 or older.

Most of the patients hospitalized are ages 65 or older, and most of the deaths have occurred in patients 65 or older. More data is available here.

In nursing and personal care homes, there are 17,856 resident cases of COVID-19, and 3,316 cases among employees, for a total of 21,172 at 702 distinct facilities in 53 counties. Out of our total deaths, 4,590 have occurred in residents from nursing or personal care facilities. A county breakdown can be found here.

Approximately 6,706 of our total cases are in health care workers.

For the latest information for individuals, families, businesses and schools, visit “Responding to COVID-19” on pa.gov.

Currently, all 67 counties are in the yellow or green phase of reopening.

Statewide – The Wolf Administration has since noon, July 1:

The Wolf Administration stresses the role Pennsylvanians play in helping to reduce the spread of COVID-19:

  • Wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds or use hand sanitizer if soap and water are not available.
  • Cover any coughs or sneezes with your elbow, not your hands.
  • Clean surfaces frequently.
  • Stay home to avoid spreading COVID-19, especially if you are unwell.
  • If you must go out, you are required to wear a mask when in a business or where it is difficult to maintain proper social distancing.

Updated Coronavirus Links: Press Releases, State Lab Photos, Graphics

All Pennsylvania residents are encouraged to sign up for AlertPA, a text notification system for health, weather, and other important alerts like COVID-19 updates from commonwealth agencies. Residents can sign up online at www.ready.pa.gov/BeInformed/Signup-For-Alerts.

Brighton Rehab and Wellness Sued Over Houskeeper’s Death

PITTSBURGH (AP) — The family of a woman who died of COVID-19 while working at a Pennsylvania nursing home that struggled to cope with the virus outbreak is suing the home and its owners for wrongful death. The lawsuit filed in Pittsburgh on Wednesday cites the Brighton Rehabilitation and Wellness Center’s history of safety and sanitation problems. It alleges the defendants’ practices created a perfect environment for an infectious disease to run rampant. The lawsuit states that at least 80 people have died at Brighton and that more than 350 residents and more than 100 staff have caught the infection. Brighton management declined comment.