Riverside Alumni to Hit the New Castle Playhouse Stage in Footloose

For many performers, the stage is where passion, creativity, and confidence come to life. For several alumni of Riverside School District, that passion has led them back into the spotlight as cast members of Footloose, the high-energy musical based on the beloved 1984 film. Filled with unforgettable songs, dynamic choreography, and a story about standing up for what you believe in, Footloose continues to captivate audiences decades after its debut. Set in the small town of Bomont, Footloose follows teenager Ren McCormack as he adjusts to a community where dancing has been outlawed. As Ren challenges long-held traditions and inspires…


Red Hot Restaurant Announces New Seasonings Line

Ellwood City-based Red Hot Restaurant, a community staple since 1970, announced Red Hot Blends, a line of seasonings inspired by the restaurant’s flavors. The current product line includes the signature chili blend, thick-cut chili barbecue, sweet tooth and more. They are available at Dave’s Hometown Shop ‘n Save and the 7-Eleven in Ellwood City, The Meat Guyz in Union Township and Milk House Meats in Beaver Falls. More locations will be announced in the future. Owner Niki Katsadas said the product line was thought of by her father and founder, John Katsadas. “My dad asked me to do this just…


EMERGENCY SHORTAGE: Donors needed now to stop alarming drop in Red Cross blood supply

The American Red Cross is declaring an emergency blood shortage as the blood supply fell nearly 25% in June. Blood donors are urgently needed to give now to help ensure patients receive lifesaving medical care without delay. The shortage is especially serious for platelets and types O positive and B negative blood. A steep decline in blood donations since the end of May has created a growing gap between supply and patient need. Currently, Red Cross distributions to hospitals are nearly 3,500 units higher per week than expected at a time when hospitals often see higher demand for blood products during the height of trauma season. On top…


PHOTOS: Union Pacific’s Big Boy No. 4014

The world’s largest and only operating steam locomotive, the Union Pacific Big Boy No 4014, passed through the area Sunday morning on its massive cross-country tour. Built in 1941 to conquer steep mountain grades, this 1.2-million-pound behemoth passed directly through parts of western Pennsylvania on its coast-to-coast trip to celebrate the nation’s 250th birthday. The tour includes a Fourth of July celebration in Philadelphia, major display events in eight cities and more than 50 whistle-stops in 10 states, including stops for the first time in Indiana, Ohio, New York and Pennsylvania.    


Bernstine, Brown Vote Against General Appropriations Bill

Rep. Aaron Bernstine (R-Butler/Lawrence) and Rep. Marla Brown (R-Lawrence) each voted against the General Appropriations bill for the 2026-27 fiscal year. Bernstine: Budget Relies on Accounting Tricks Instead of Fiscal Responsibility HARRISBURG – Rep. Aaron Bernstine (R-Butler/Lawrence) voted against the General Appropriations bill for the 2026-27 fiscal year. The measure passed the House and now heads to Gov. Josh Shapiro for his signature. Bernstine issued the following statement: “This budget relies on the same type of accounting tricks Bernie Madoff used to make the numbers look better than reality. Delaying payments and shifting costs into the future does not reduce…


Mayor Court Announces 4th Beautification Award Winner of 2026

Mayor Anthony J. Court presented Barb and Bob Campbell of 416 Pershing Street with a Beautification Award in recognition of their well-maintained and attractive property which reflects exceptional pride and care. The Campbells also received a commemorative yard sign to display and a gift certificate to a local restaurant in appreciation of their efforts. The Beautification Program continues this month with two more awards to be presented. Nominations are still being accepted-be sure to recognize a deserving property in your neighborhood!


Ellwood City Public Library Activities For Week Of July 13th

The Ellwood City Area Public Library offers a variety of weekly activities. Information is available by calling the library at 724-758-6458. HOURS Hours are Monday 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m., Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday 10:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m., Friday 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. and Saturday 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. Please remember no one is available to take your calls unless it is in the hours listed above. BOOK SALE COLLECTION: We are now taking donations for the book sale in October. We do not take text books, readers digest condensed books, magazines, encyclopedias or VHS tapes. Activities…


POLICE: Weekly Police Blotter

HARASSMENT: Trent Sirak, 23, of Ellwood City, is charged with Harassment after an incident occurring on June 25th at approximately 11:00 p.m. Police were dispatched on pursuit of Sirak after a report of harassing and threatening phone calls made by Sirak to a female victim. Through the night the victim called the Police to update them on Sirak’s location and the nature of the phone calls he would make to her. The female related that Sirak accused her of setting him up before asking her to leave with him so he could take her to Pittsburgh. Officers were on patrol…