Local News

Gov. Wolf Outlines Plans to Create Commonwealth Civilian Coronavirus Corps

As Pennsylvania plans to safely reopen the economy and recover from COVID-19, Governor Tom Wolf announced the creation of the Commonwealth Civilian Coronavirus Corps, a public service initiative that will support efforts this fall to increase testing and contact tracing and provide critical new job opportunities in the public health sector. “Our highest priority remains protecting public health and safety, but we must also look ahead to see how we can address future needs. To reopen our economy to its maximum potential, we will need to boost our ability to contain this highly transmissible virus,” Governor Wolf said. “The Commonwealth…


ECASD Providing Wifi Via Buses

The Ellwood City Area School District did not want its students to go without Internet access during this challenging time, so they are providing it via school buses. “We wanted to provide as many opportunities as possible at this time for students to connect,” said District Superintendent Joseph Mancini. The free access began on Monday, May 4. Five Ellwood City Transit buses outfitted with mobile Wifi units will be parked throughout the district and will broadcast 300 feet from the bus. The Wifi will also be useful well into the future as students will be able to connect if need…


Katie’s Korner Opening ‘Right Around the Corner’

Although plans to open in May were halted by the Coronavirus, Katie’s Korner in North Sewickley Township is planning a safe and new grand opening. Franchise owner, Gary Hummel, said the holdup has been the final aspects of construction—the parking lot. In a recent interview, Hummel said that is the final piece to opening the doors. “As soon as contractors are permitted by Governor Wolf to begin operations, we will be having our parking lot paved and then be open for business,” Hummel said. According to Hummel when the doors do open, his staff will be following all CDC guidelines…


BC3 Lawrence Crossing Plans Virtual Open House

(New Castle, PA) BC3 @ Lawrence Crossing in May will hold a virtual open house intended to introduce prospective students to its 19 programs, its savings compared to Pennsylvania’s public four-year universities and BC3’s regionwide highest salary-to-cost ratio. BC3, ranked as the No. 1 community college in Pennsylvania for 2020 by BestColleges.com, will hold BC3 @ Lawrence Crossing’s virtual open house at 2 p.m. May 14. Prospective students can register for the event at bc3.edu/open-house. During the virtual open house, prospective students can ask BC3 representatives about financial aid, flexible course scheduling options, support services, student life, how 70 percent…


Damato Named A Finalist For Syed R. Ali-Zaidi Award for Academic Excellence

Slippery Rock University this week recognized students and faculty with Celebration of Achievement. Among those is Nikol Damato, a senior dual history and interdisciplinary programs major from Ellwood City. Highlighting the awards is the selection of SRU’s finalist for the Syed R. Ali-Zaidi Award for Academic Excellence, which is given to a graduating senior in Pennsylvania’s State System of Higher Education who exemplifies academic excellence and involvement. Damato was selected as the University’s nominee by SRU President William Behre. The winner will be selected by the board of governors later this year. Damato has already won a variety of scholarships…


2020 Mayor’s Beautification Awards To Commence

It’s that beautiful time of the year again! Mayor Anthony J. Court will be starting his “Beautification Award Program” in Ellwood City. This has been a trying year and now it’s time to bring life back to our neighborhoods. Mayor Court started this program 10 years ago and it has been a huge success. Nominations will be accepted beginning May 1st by email at tcourt230@zoominternet.net, Mayor’s Facebook page, phone 724-824-7635, or by mail. Six winners will be chosen from the nominations. Presentations will begin on June 1st and go through mid-August. All winners will receive a yard sign stating “Mayor…


POLICE: Overnight Stabbing Will Lead To Arrest Warrants

An overnight altercation sent one person to the hospital after a stabbing at a residence on Hillside Avenue in Ellwood City on Saturday, April 25. According to an Ellwood City Police report, at approximately 1:30 a.m. a known suspect assaulted a victim with a knife after becoming involved in an altercation at the Beaver County residence. The altercation involved a female, ex-boyfriend, boyfriend, friend of the ex-boyfriend, and another individual related to the female who intervened in altercation or were directly involved in altercation. The victim and one of the perpetrators had left the scene and patrol located the victim/suspect…


Bernstine Announces State Funding for Learning Enhancements

ELLWOOD CITY – Rep. Aaron Bernstine (R-Beaver/Butler/Lawrence) today announced that three school districts in the 10th District have been selected to receive a Continuity of Education and Equity Grant (CEEG) for the 2019-20 academic year. “During the COVID-19 pandemic, it is imperative we don’t lose sight of how important it is for us to deliver the best possible education to every child,” said Bernstine. “This funding will help schools purchase equipment, so teachers can better connect with students ready to learn.” Those receiving grants locally are: • New Brighton Area School District – $76,000. • New Castle Area School District –…


Ellwood City Area Historical Society Extended Scholarship Deadline

Attention Lincoln and Riverside High School Seniors: The annual Ellwood City Area Historical Society Scholarship submission is quickly approaching. However, due to the Covid 19 pandemic, the entry deadline has been extended, and is now due Thursday May 14, 2020 at 2:00 p.m. The Ellwood City Area Historical Society will award two $1500.00 scholarships to two (2) graduating seniors. Graduating seniors from Lincoln High School and Riverside High School who have been accepted to attend a college, Trade School or Performing Arts are eligible. Applications may be received from the High School Student Guidance Counselor or from the Ellwood City…


ECASD Food Service Staff Going Above and Beyond to Feed Area Students

Keeping kids fed during a pandemic is a challenge, but it’s one that the Ellwood City Area School District’s Food Service staff and volunteers continues to conquer. John Dzurina, Food Service Director for the district, said the successful operation would not be possible without the daily determination of his staff and volunteers. Dzurina said on average 920 kids are fed per day. With a healthy and filling breakfast and lunch both being served, that adds up to about 1,840 meals per day. Currently those meals include cereals, juice, milk, sandwiches, fruit, and vegetables. Hot meals have not been on the…