Part 1: Top 10 Stories of 2018

In following previous years’ tradition, EllwoodCity.org brings the calendar to a close with the top 10 most popular stories of the year. Today is Part 1 in a 2-part series featuring the top stories of 2018. We would like to thank all of our readers for contributing to our one-million-plus page views this year. Be sure to check back tomorrow for Part 2.

The EllwoodCity.org staff wishes everyone a safe and happy 2019!

Ellwood Resident Busted for Heroin Distribution.

Very early in the year, several police reports topped the charts led by a January report for heroin distribution. 27-year-old Samantha Sutherland was arrested for the distribution of what was 3.5 grams of suspected heroin. On top of drug distribution, later in the month several Ellwood residents were facing charges after their separate domestic dispute cases were filed. A day later, Lincoln High students were sent home due to a malfunction found in many of their fire alarm systems.

 This New Ellwood City Barbershop Will Become a Legend

LGNDS Barbershop on Lawrence Avenue had opened back in June of this year. Carla Bunney and Shawn Johnson Jr. are the co-owners and partners of the new local barbershop. The pair had created the dream of having a barbershop back when they had worked for Youngs Barbershop.

Why Wait Days For A Geek? New Tech Shop To Provide Affordable, Timely Service

In November, another new, local small business opened at the intersection of Fifth Street & Glen Avenue, across the street from the Ellwood City McDonald’s restaurant. Within the tinted window facade lies 1 Hour PC, a small town tech shop specializes in low-cost services dealing with anything and everything in the tech department.

Ellwood City Hospital Gets a Face Lift, New Generation of Doctors to Come

Back in June the Ellwood City Medical Center was facing some new changes. New staff, new construction, new hospital units and technology being implemented in hopes of making it into a medical sanctuary for area residents. However after some complications with money and such, the staff felt the need to send out a letter and ask those in the community not to believe everything the media wanted to say and continue to welcome the hospital as a communal healthcare provider. The former hospital, now turned medical center, continues to be in recent news with stigma surrounding the new, Florida-based ownership group..

Mount Airy is Building a Casino Right Outside Ellwood City

In August, Mount Airy Casino Resort, Pennsylvania’s first AAA Four-Diamond casino resort announced the expansion of its customer-focused luxury brand into the Pittsburgh and tri-state market. They announced that they plan to break ground at the end of 2018 after the purchase of over 100 shovel-ready acres located conveniently off Interstate 376 and the PA Turnpike in Beaver County — less than 20 miles from Cranberry, Sewickley and the Ohio state line. A public hearing was held in November to let community members voice their opinions.