Hometown4 – d1996

RANDALL FRANTZ, 71

Hometown4 — Tue, 26 May 2026 13:49:33 +0000

Randall “Randy” James Frantz, 71, of Hillsdale, PA, husband, father, brother, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend was received into the arms of Jesus Christ our savior on May 25, 2026.

Randy was born on September 8th, 1954. He was the third of six children. As a young boy you could always find him tearing something apart to figure out how to put it back together. He was gifted with an extremely mechanical mind and was always looking to ‘find a better solution.’

Randy married his high school sweetheart, Kathryn (Katie) in 1974. They were married for 52 years. They share two children: Ryan (Amber Frantz) and Matthew (Angela Frantz). The boys were Randy’s pride and joy. The family had the honor of working alongside each other every day. Randy loved getting to see his grandchildren: Tyra (Eric Faught), Taylin (Christopher Scott), Seth, Maddox, Sky, and Tinzlei. He also adored his great-grandchildren, Shepherd Faught and Sanai Scott.

As a young adult, Randy founded Hillsdale Construction and Excavating Company Inc with his brother, Richard Frantz. If you saw one, the other was never far behind. These two spent their entire lives side by side. Later in life, they began the adventure of farming and founded Apple Grove Farms LLC.

Randy attended The Summit Church in Indiana, PA and loved listening to worship music. If he wasn’t running his Red International Harvester Tractor, running to grab a part, or being a pool shark, you could find him watching GunSmoke and the Pittsburgh Pirates.

Randy was preceded in death by his Mother, Mary Kathryn Frantz, and sister Lynda Frantz. Randy is survived by his wife, Kathryn L Frantz, sons Ryan and wife Amber Frantz, and Matthew and wife Angela Frantz. His grandchildren: Tyra and Eric Faught, Taylin and Christopher Scott, Tinzlei Frantz, Seth Frantz, Maddox Frantz, Sky Frantz, and great-grandchildren Shepherd Faught and Sanai Scott. Also, his siblings: Richard Frantz, Joseph (Belinda) Frantz, Kim Lazor, and William (Faye) Lazor.

Family and friends will be received from 2-4:00 and 6-8:00 p.m. on Wednesday, May 27, 2026 at the Rairigh Funeral Home, Ltd. in Hillsdale, PA, where an 11:00 a.m. funeral service will be held on Thursday, May 28, 2026. Interment will follow at the Rowley Cemetery in Hillsdale, PA.

Visit www.rairighfh.com to sign Randy’s guestbook and share condolences.

IUP RECEIVES NATIONAL RECOGNITION FOR ONLINE GRADUATE PROGRAMS

Hometown4 — Tue, 26 May 2026 13:37:09 +0000

Indiana University of Pennsylvania is getting national recognition for two of its online graduate degree programs.

OnlineMasters.com ranked IUP’s online master’s programs in health services administration and math education 15th in the nation. The rankings looked at factors including academic quality, graduation outcomes, affordability and student support services.

University officials say the health services administration program focuses on healthcare policy, management and employment law, while the math education program is designed around modern teaching practices for elementary, middle and secondary educators.

The recognition follows several other recent honors for IUP, including national rankings from U.S. News and World Report for online programs in education, nursing and criminology.

WHITE TOWNSHIP SUPERVISORS ANNOUNCE ROAD CLOSURE GOES INTO EFFECT TODAY

Hometown4 — Tue, 26 May 2026 10:40:30 +0000

The White Township Supervisors have announced a road closure that takes effect today.

Supervisors say that Rustic Lodge Road from Kolter Drive to the Indian Springs Road intersection will be closed until this Friday at 5 p.m.. The closure will allow PennDOT contractor, Ligonier Construction Company, to be onsite performing bulk excavation, removing existing shoulders, installing pavement base drain, and installing stormwater drainage.

Rustic Lodge Road will remain open to Han Family Practice for patient access.

STATE BILL AIMS TO LIMIT TURNPIKE CONTACT WITH USERS

Hometown4 — Tue, 26 May 2026 09:56:58 +0000

A state lawmaker is looking to limit the ways the Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission gets into contact with users. Republican State Representative Brenda Pugh is introducing a measure that would bar the commission from sending text messages related to unpaid tolls and fees. Pugh says the bill is meant to protect the privacy of citizens and eliminate confusion over whether the notices are legitimate. People have been reporting scam texts related to unpaid turnpike tolls for months.

PENNSYLVANIA TO MOVE FORWARD WITH BROADBAND EXPANSION PROJECT

Hometown4 — Tue, 26 May 2026 09:55:12 +0000

Pennsylvania can now move ahead with more than 700 million dollars in broadband expansion projects after federal officials backed away from a threat to withhold the funding over a labor dispute.

The money will help bring high-speed internet access to about 130-thousand homes and businesses in rural parts of the state that still lack reliable service.

State officials say Pennsylvania has six months to finalize contracts with internet providers, who will then have four years to complete the work. Most projects will use fiber-optic cable, although some areas are expected to receive satellite internet service instead.

SEND-OFF FOR INDIANA BASEBALL TEAM TO BE HELD THIS AFTERNOON

Hometown4 — Tue, 26 May 2026 09:54:16 +0000

A send-off will be held this afternoon for the Indiana baseball team as they head to Washington, PA for the WPIAL 4A Championships this evening.

Residents of Indiana are being asked to line Philadelphia Street from 5^th to 7^th streets at 1 p.m. as the team leaves town with a police escort. Those attending are asked to wear their red and black Indiana gear.

The 17-4 Indians will be facing 17-5 Elizabeth forward. First pitch is slated for 7 p.m. from LQT Park.

H. GORDON GASTON, 89

Hometown4 — Fri, 22 May 2026 12:21:16 +0000

H. Gordon Gaston, 89, of Indiana, passed away on Monday, May 18, 2026, in Johnstown. He was born in Canoe Township, Indiana County, on November 26, 1936, to the late Walter E. and Lola M. (English) Gaston.

Gordon attended Laura Lamar High School where he played county ball and proudly was awarded medals in track. He proudly served our country in the United States Air Force. Upon his discharge, Gordon worked for Season-all Industries until its closure.

In his free time, Gordon enjoyed baseball, especially the Pittsburgh Pirates, and Sudoku puzzles, but most of all spending time with his family and friends. Gordon always had a positive, happy big blue-eyed smile, always making everyone around know they were loved.

He is survived by his son Rodney (Heidi) Gaston of Indiana, daughter Tracy (James) Grubbs of SC, son Jody Gaston of Indiana, son Jason (Angela) Gaston of NC, grandchildren Hank and Eli Gaston, and Gracie Grubbs, as well as a sister Lana Beth Burnheimer of NC.

In addition to his parents, Gordon was preceded in death by his wife Mary (Drummond) Gaston, his siblings Dennis E. Gaston, Dorothy Eileen Smith and an infant sister Cindy Gaston, and daughter-in-law Jill Gaston.

Friends are invited to the Donahue-Tylinski Funeral Home, Inc., (formerly Bowser Minich), on Friday, May 22, 2026, from 6:00 – 8:00 PM, and again on Saturday, May 23, 2026, from 11:30 AM until the time of service at 12:30 PM, with Reverend Dr. Marv Nelson as Celebrant. Burial will follow in Oakland Cemetery, Indiana.

JILL GASTON, 47

Hometown4 — Fri, 22 May 2026 12:15:12 +0000

Jill Dawn (Zack) Gaston, 47, of Indiana, passed away after an extended illness on Saturday, May 9, 2026, in Pittsburgh. She was born in Indiana on Jan. 12, 1978, to Jim Zack and Connie (Hilty) Andrascik. Jill graduated from Penns Manor High School in 1996 and then attended and graduated from the IUP Police Academy. She was employed by the Blairsville Police Department as a police officer, at one point acting as officer in charge. She was a volunteer fire fighter with both Cherry Hill Township and Indiana. Jill had a generous spirit and loved to help others. She was very community oriented, advocating for others as opportunities arose. She enjoyed cooking, watching birds, spending time with her family and friends and her cats Ruger and Gabby. Surviving Jill is her husband Jody D. Gaston, of Indiana; mother and stepfather Connie (Hilty) and John Andrascik; brother Kevin (Sarah) Zack; stepsister Rachel Andrascik; Aunt Sharon (Steve) Moss; Uncle Bill (Kim) Zack; father-in-law Gordon Gaston; and other loving family members. Jill was preceded in death by her father, Jim Zack, in 2007; and her mother-in-law, Mary (Drummond) Gaston, in 2008. At Jill’s request, all services were private and had been entrusted to the care of the Donahue Tylinski Funeral Home Inc. (formerly Bowser Minich). Memorial contributions in lieu of flowers may be made to the Indiana County Humane Society, 191 Airport Road, Indiana, PA 15701. To send an online condolence to the family, please visit www.donahuetylinski.com

DIANE MARRON, 61

Hometown4 — Fri, 22 May 2026 12:08:02 +0000

Diane Lynn (Kelly) Marron, 61, of Blairsville, PA (Derry Township), passed away peacefully at home on Wednesday, May 20, 2026, surrounded by the love of her family.

Born on June 3, 1964, in Jersey City, New Jersey, Diane was the beloved daughter of Joseph G. Kelly Jr. and Margaretta (Jellison) Kelly Monnich.

A graduate of Greensburg-Salem High School, Class of 1982, Diane was a faithful member of SS. Simon and Jude Catholic Church in Blairsville. She found joy in life’s simple pleasures — dancing at Zumba, painting beautiful artwork, cooking and baking for those she loved, and spending quiet mornings watching the birds with a cup of coffee in hand. Above all else, Diane treasured her family and cherished every moment spent with her children and grandchildren.

She is survived by her devoted husband of 43 years, Michael P. Marron, whom she married on September 18, 1982; her loving mother, Margaretta Monnich of Blairsville; and her three sons, Bradlee E. Marron (Alyssia) of Ligonier, Evan J. Marron (Jessica) of Black Lick, and Matthew A. Marron (Brianna) of Martinsburg, West Virginia. Diane was a proud and loving grandmother to Julijana, Bayleigh, Lainie, and Luca, who brought endless joy to her life.

She is also survived by her siblings, Debbie Steigert of Nahunta, Georgia; Joanne Mazzoni of Latrobe; and Joseph Kelly III (Honie) of Blairsville; along with several nieces and nephews whom she loved dearly.

Diane was preceded in death by her father, Joseph G. Kelly Jr., and her stepfather, James Kenneth Monnich.

Family and friends will be received on Friday, May 22, 2026, from 2 to 4 PM and 6 to 8 PM at Shoemaker Funeral Home, Inc., 49 North Walnut Street, Blairsville, PA where a wake service will be held at 7:30 PM Friday. Prayers of Transfer will be held at the funeral home on Saturday, May 23, 2026, at 9:30 AM, followed by a Funeral Mass at 10 AM at SS. Simon and Jude Catholic Church with Rev. Joseph Pham celebrant.

Interment will follow at SS. Simon & Jude Cemetery, Blairsville.

Diane’s kindness, warmth, and unwavering love for her family will remain forever in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.

To view the online obituary, sign the guest registry or send condolences visit www.shoemakerfamilyservices.com.

MARYANNE TROXELL, 90

Hometown4 — Thu, 21 May 2026 14:03:53 +0000

Maryanne (Roser) Troxell, 90, of Homer City, Pennsylvania, passed away peacefully on May 19, 2026. She was the daughter of the late Charles V. And Bernadine (Glasstetter) Roser and was born August 17, 1935 in Homer City

A woman of deep faith, Maryanne was an active member of Our Lady of the Assumption Parish. Among her past ministries, she served as Eucharistic Minister and was a member of the Pastoral Council. She worked in retail management at Penn Traffic and GNC.

She found joy in serving her community by volunteering at the Indiana Hospital for over twenty years, at the Indiana Courthouse, and helped out at the annual Hoodlebug Festival.

Lovingly known as “Nam,” she was the heart of the family. She lived. She laughed. She loved.

She is survived by her children, Cindy Marcoline of Indiana; Mark (Beili) Troxell of Fleming Island, FL; and Marcia (Tom) Deptola of Homer City. She also leaves behind her cherished grandchildren: Amy Marcoline; Regis (Yumi) Troxell; Keith Troxell; Travis Deptola; Leanne (Jay) Valdez; Ian (Emily) Troxell; Kelsey Troxell; Kaitlyn (Jack) Sarnovsky; and Xiao Xing Troxell.

Mary was also blessed with great-grandchildren whom she adored; Alice Troxell; Aubree, Jayden, Cambree, and Callie Valdez; Akina Troxell; and Nathan and Logan Sarnovsky. She is also survived by numerous nieces and nephews.

In addition to her parents, she as preceded in death by her husband of 69 years, Regis E. Troxell and siblings Charles V. Roser and Helen Bender.

The family would like to extend a special thanks to Dr. Matthew Klain, Concordia Hospice for their outstanding compassion and care, to Carol Pesci and Mimi Yanoscsik for their unwavering friendship, and for the warm relationships formed with friends and neighbors over the years.

A Memorial Mass will be held Friday, May 22, 2026 at 10 AM at Our Lady of the Assumption Parish, Lucernemines Site. Interment to follow in the church cemetery. Bowser Funeral Home and Cremation Services, Inc., Homer City are in charge of arrangements. Please visit bowserfh.com to sign the online guestbook.

ALICE SPICHER, 77

Hometown4 — Wed, 20 May 2026 14:45:03 +0000

Alice Viola (Griffith) Spicher, 77, of Cherry Tree, PA passed way on Tuesday, May 19, 2026 at Embassy of Hillsdale Park in Hillsdale, PA.

The daughter of John E. and Sara V. (Meckley) Griffith, she was born on July 18, 1948 in Spangler, PA.

Alice was a graduate of the Harmony High School and the Punxsy Beauty School.

She married Gary Lee Spicher on October 27, 1984 and they have shared over forty-one years of marriage together.

She worked for Power Gas Marketing & Transmission of Indiana, PA Exco Company of Cherry Tree, PA and both the Giant Eagle and former Goodwill in Barnesboro, PA.

Alice enjoyed sewing and doing building construction projects around her home.

She will be sadly missed by her husband Gary and her son Chad E. Hallman and his companion Colleen Maison of Masontown, PA; her grandchildren: Amanda Marie and Samantha Jo Hallman and step-granddaughter, Crystle Grosspietsch; her four great-grandchildren: Blake Loquasto, Madison Loquasto, Bryson, and Ella Grosspietsch; her sister, Mary Jane Griffith Seger of DuBois, PA; and her sisters-in-law: Kathy Griffith of Cherry Tree, PA and Susan Coudriet of Clymer, PA.

Alice was preceded in death by her parents; infant brother George Griffith and her brother John M. Griffith.

Family and friends will be received from 2-4:00 p.m. and 6-8:00 p.m. on Thursday, May 21, 2026 at the Rairigh Funeral Home, Ltd. in Hillsdale, PA. On Friday, May 22, 2026 a funeral service will be held at the funeral home at 1:00 p.m. officiated by Pastor Tim Bash. Interment will be at the Hazelet Cemetery near Cherry Tree, PA.

The family wishes to thank 365 Hospice and Embassy Park of Hillsdale for all the care they provided Alice.

Please visit www.rairighfh.com to sign Alice’s guestbook and share a condolence message.

B. PAUL HARRIS, 77

Hometown4 — Wed, 20 May 2026 14:16:05 +0000

Paul Harris, 77, of Blairsville, PA passed away peacefully at his home on Tuesday, May 19, 2026.

Born on October 29, 1948, in Johnstown, PA, he was the son of the late Bernard V. and Elizabeth R. (Finnegan) Harris.

He was a graduate of Bishop McCort High School, Johnstown.

Paul was a devoted member of SS Simon and Jude Roman Catholic Church in Blairsville, where he faithfully sang in the men’s choir. He was deeply involved in the community and held memberships in several organizations, including the Fraternal Order of Eagles #1488, BPOE #406, Acacia Lodge #355 F&AM, where he served as Past Worshipful Master, all in Blairsville, and the Order of the Eastern Star #221 in Latrobe, where he served as Past Patron.

For 25 years, Paul worked as an assistant occupational therapist at Torrance State Hospital, where he dedicated himself to helping others.

Surviving is his wife of 45 years, Sally J. (Ramsden) Harris, whom he married on April 25, 1981; two children, Daniel P. Harris of Herndon, VA, and Sandra F. Schleicher of Clymer; a grandson, Aiden Turenchalk; three siblings, Dennis Harris (Tammy) of Johnstown, Kathy Book of Baltimore, MD, and Loretta Stephens of Johnstown; a brother-in-law, Keith Hecker of OH; and several nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his sister, Sharon Hecker.

Family and friends will be received on Thursday, May 21, 2026, from 2 to 4 PM and 6 to 8 PM at Shoemaker Funeral Home, Inc., 49 N. Walnut St., Blairsville, PA. Prayers of Transfer will be held in the funeral home on Friday at 9:30 AM, followed by a Funeral Mass at 10 AM at SS Simon and Jude Roman Catholic Church, Blairsville, with Rev. Joseph Pham, celebrant.

Interment will follow at Blairsville Cemetery, Blairsville, PA.

Acacia Lodge #355 will conduct Masonic services at the funeral home on Thursday at 7 PM. The Order of the Eastern Star #221 will conduct services at 7:30 PM.

To view the online obituary, sign the guest registry or send condolences visit www.shoemakerfamilyservices.com.

PATRICIA MAY, 92

Hometown4 — Tue, 19 May 2026 14:49:34 +0000

Patricia Anne May passed away peacefully on Saturday, May 16, 2026, at Arbor Terrace Senior Living Community, Exton, PA, surrounded by the love of her family. Born in Boston, MA on April 4, 1934, the daughter of Edward Vincent Mary Patricia Cormier.

She attended school in Boston, graduating from Nazareth Girls High School in 1952. Pat worked for the gas company until she discovered her passion for traveling as a stewardess for Eastern Airlines. It was only meeting the love of her life for more than 65 years, Bernard F. R. May, at a Christmas dance in 1958 followed by their engagement on Valentine’s Day 1959 that prompted her to pursue her other life ‘s passion as a wife and mother to her husband and their five children.

Pat spent all her 65 years, less three years the family relocated and lived in Mexico City, married to Bernie and raising her five children in Indiana, PA. During those years, Pat worked part-time as a teacher’s aide for Arin Intermediate Unit, a medical receptionist, and an administrative assistant in the nursing department at IUP. During that time, she also volunteered for VNA Hospice, Indiana Hospital Children’s Dental Clinic, Birthright, Indiana Hospital Auxiliary, Welcome Wagon, and at the Jimmy Stewart Museum.

Pat was a devoted, wonderful and caring mother and wife. She had many interests and hobbies which included gourmet cooking, sewing, gardening, birdwatching, reading, golf and travel. All her children were inspired by her and share many of the same hobbies she loved.

Pat was preceded in death, by her beloved husband, Bernard F. R. May and son, Martin E. May.

She is survived by her loving children, Patti (Terry) Connolly, Bernie (Riza) May, Maureen May, (daughter in-law), Andrea (Dan) Spencer, Terry (Sara) May. Pat also is survived by her sister Barbara Place. She is also survived by her 10 grandchildren: Kelly, Nikki, Lauren, Erica, Zach, Brendan, Miles, Ella, Skylar and Jonathan, and numerous nieces and nephews who loved hearing Aunt Pat’s New England accent, which she carried with her throughout her 92 years.

Pat’s family would like to thank the caring and warm staff at Arbor Terrace and Holisticare Hospice for their incredible care and support.

Visitation will be held on Tuesday, May 26, 2026, from 2:00-4:00 and 6:00-7:30 pm at Rairigh-Bence Funeral Home & Crematory, Indiana, PA. A mass and Christian burial will be Celebrated on Wednesday, May 27, 2026, at 9:30 am at St. Thomas More University Parish.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Holisticare Hospice in Pat’s memory.

Online condolences may be made by visiting: rbfh.net

PATRICK KEATING, 75

Hometown4 — Tue, 19 May 2026 14:43:36 +0000

Pat was born in Nanty-Glo on March 13, 1951. He died, Sunday, May 17, 2026 at UPMC Shadyside, Pittsburgh. In between, he lived a life full of wonder and adventure. He married Jan, the love of his life and best friend, on February 4, 1980. Together, they raised two magnificent children, daughter, Casey and son, Liam.

Growing up with six siblings, he was never at a loss for a playmate, but often preferred the solitude of the woods and strip mines behind the family home. There he learned the life cycle of forests, studied myriad woodland creatures, perfected pole vaulting with a hawthorn stick over streams, wilderness survival techniques, and the beauty of four seasons. His love of the outdoors led him to serving nine consecutive summers on the aquatic staff at Roaring Run Scout Reservation in Boswell, serving as the Aquatics Director for the last three of those years. The lessons instilled by wonderful parents, excellent siblings, a good family and nature never left him. His life was directed by his Catholic faith, his magnificent wife and children, and the values taught in Boy Scouting.

Scouting was a big part of his life, and he served 57 total years as a Boy Scout and Scouter. He valued the principles enshrined in the Scout Oath and Law and was committed to showing his young men what a good, moral man looks and acts like. He loved every position in Scouting, so long as it involved personal contact with the boys.

He never cared much for school at any level, but sure did a lot of it in spite of himself. He ended up with three Bachelor’s degrees, two Master’s degrees, and several thousands of hours of military training and education courses.

At some point in high school, he believed he had a calling to the Catholic priesthood, so after graduation from Blacklick Valley, he went to a Roman Catholic Seminary in Ohio. After five years there, he discerned that he really wasn’t called to the Priesthood, it was more like a gently murmur than a calling. With that realization, he left the seminary and enlisted in the United States Air Force, and that was when the international adventure part of his story really started! After serving three and a half years as an enlisted man, he was commissioned as an officer. He served another 27 years as an active-duty officer, retiring as a Colonel in 2005.

Pat always smiled when, in retirement, someone would ask him, “where did you serve?”, or “what did you do in the Air Force?”. He (and later his wife and children) moved in service to his beloved Country 27 times in that 30-year career. He had no less than 38 different jobs and duty titles in that same period. That’s why the smile would come when well-meaning people asked a question involving the “where” or “what” of military duties. Military people are the Nation’s nomads and those who have never served just don’t understand that.

A mass of Christian burial will be celebrated Friday morning, May 22, 2026 at St. Thomas More University Parish, Indiana. Inurnment with military honors will be held at 10:00 AM on Monday, June 1, 2026 at the National Cemetery of the Alleghenies, Bridgeville.

Service arrangements are with Rairigh-Bence Funeral Home & Crematory where online condolences may be made by visiting: rbfh.net

JAMES ‘JIM’ BENCE, 78

Hometown4 — Tue, 19 May 2026 14:37:41 +0000

James D. “Jim” Bence, 78, of Homer City, passed away peacefully at his residence, surrounded by his loving family. Born Nov. 11, 1947, he was the son of the late James L. and Sally Bence.

Jim was a graduate of Indiana High School. Following graduation, he proudly served his country in the U.S. Navy Submarine Division for four years. After his military service, he began a long and dedicated career in coal mining with R&P Coal Company at the Lucerne 6 Mine. Over the course of a 40-year career, he spent half of his years with R&P Coal Company and the remainder serving the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania as a state electrical mine inspector.

Jim enjoyed spending time with his family and was especially proud of watching his children and grandchildren participate in sporting events. He also loved time at camp, golfing with friends, and traveling. He was a member of the Homer City American Legion Post 493, U.S. Submarine Veterans Association, and the Red Barn Sportsman Club.

He is survived by his loving wife, Beverly Twigg Bence, with whom he shared a wonderful 44 years together; his four children, James M. (Jodie), Jason (Bobbie Jo), Jill, and Hayden, at home; his cherished grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his siblings, Linda Kimmell (Ed Park), Ed (Becky) Bence, and Doug (Margie) Bence, as well as many extended family members and friends.

Family and friends will be received on Wednesday from 2 to 7 PM at the Bowser Funeral Home and Cremation Services, Inc., Homer City. Funeral services will be held on Thursday at 11 AM at the funeral home. Pastors August and Aimee Twigg will officiate. Interment to follow in the Oakland Cemetery. Please visit bowserfh.com to order flowers or sign the online guestbook.

KENNETH DETWILER, 70

Hometown4 — Tue, 19 May 2026 14:34:02 +0000

Kenneth R. Detwiler, 70 of Heilwood, PA., passed away on Sunday, May 17, 2026, at Communities of Indian Haven, Indiana, PA.

He was the son of Clyde and Alberta (Morgan) Detwiler, born on October 9, 1955, in Indiana, PA.

Ken loved to play cards, softball, and hunting, He was an avid Dallas Cowboys and Jet’s fan. Ken loved spending time with his family but most of all his grandchildren. He was a loving father, grandfather, and great-grandfather.

He is survived by his six children, Rebecca Brenner and husband Jack, Stacey Long and husband Blaine, Jessica Thomas and husband Jason, Charles Detwiler and wife Alexis, Nichole Salazar and Melissa Detwiler, five brothers and sisters, Linda Hieber and husband Bill, Ben Detwiler, Sylvia Laney, Wayde Detwiler and wife Diana, and Wayne Detwiler and wife Pat, 18 grandchildren and 3 great-grandchildren.

Ken was preceded in death by his parents, his wife, Cheryl D. (Shields) Detwiler, one son, Christopher Detwiler, two brothers, Jesse and Frank Detwiler, two sisters, Elizabeth Henry, and Donna Patterson, two great-grandchildren, James Detwiler, and Remington Wise.

Friends will be received on Wednesday, May 20, 2026, from 1 pm to 5 pm at the McCabe~Roof Funeral Home, 565 Franklin St., Clymer, PA., with his funeral services to follow at 5 pm with Pastor Robert White, officiating. Interment will be private for the family.

Online condolences may be made at www.maccaberooffh.com.

FRANK RENDA, 95

Hometown4 — Tue, 19 May 2026 13:17:08 +0000

It is with profound love and deep sadness that the family of Frank Anthony Renda announces his peaceful passing, as he slipped away in his sleep in the early morning hours of May 14th, 2026. He leaves behind a legacy as rich and full of flavor as the garden he tended with such devoted pride; a life well-lived, a family deeply cherished, and a community made better for his presence in it.

Frank is survived by his beautiful bride, Mary Insana Renda, of 73 years, and three beloved daughters: Natalie Renda, Maria Gramling (Joel), and Suzi Renda. He will be remembered by his wonderful grandchildren: Katelyn Bordini (Ryan), Christina Bordini, Dr. Kyle Gramling (Priscila), Joel Gramling (Kelly), and Zach Gramling (Lindsey). He also leaves behind his first great-granddaughter, Ariché Gramling, who will one day grow up hearing stories of their Nonno, who poured his whole heart into everything he touched. He was the son of the late John and Natalie Renda and brother of Anthony F. Renda, CEO of Renda Media (Catherine) and the late Joseph J. Renda (Isabelle, who survives).

Frank was a first-generation Sicilian-American man who built things. With vision, grit, and an unwavering belief in honest work, he founded Triangle Systems from the ground up, growing it into a flourishing printing business that stood as a testament to everything he valued: integrity, dedication, and the pride of a job done right. Those who worked alongside him knew quickly that Frank didn’t just build a business — he built relationships, earned respect, and left his mark.

Beyond the office, Frank was a man of simple and genuine pleasures. He was never happier than when he was in his garden, coaxing the most extraordinary tomatoes and peppers from the earth with an unwavering patience. Come harvest time, there was no doubt; Frank’s garden was something to behold. Equally celebrated was his homemade wine & vinegar, poured generously for family and friends, and savored with the quiet satisfaction of creating something beautiful with his hardworking hands.

Frank also loved a good time, whether that meant settling in at a hot craps table at the casino, telling a tale with quiet animation that had the whole room leaning in, or flashing that knowing look — glasses perched just so, peering over the rims — that let you know, without a single word, that he meant business. His humor was as warm as his handshake, and his stories had a way of drawing you in and never quite letting you go.

Those who knew Frank will never forget the way he expressed gratitude. When something, or someone, moved him, he didn’t say it once. He’d look you in the eye and say, “Thank you, thank you, thank you.” Three times, with all the sincerity in the world. It was pure Frank: never one to do anything halfway, especially when it came to the people he loved, he did it all “his way”.

Frank Anthony Renda was a man who filled every room he entered with laughter, with warmth, with the smell of something wonderful from the garden or wine barrel, and bursting with a love for his family that was as steadfast as the man himself. He will be missed beyond measure, remembered always, and loved forever.

“Thank you, thank you, thank you.”

Family and friends received on Tuesday from 3-7 PM at the Warchol Funeral Home Inc., 3060 Washington Pike, Bridgeville (412.221.3333). A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Wednesday at St. Thomas More Church of Resurrection Parish at 10:15 AM. Everyone please meet at church. Memorials may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

PFC. JOHN WALKO, 20

Hometown4 — Thu, 14 May 2026 19:10:22 +0000

Pfc. John A. Walko of Commodore, 20 year old World War II soldier, died during combat on October 20, 1944 in Aachen, Germany. His re-patriated remains have been returned home to Indiana County where his family has made arrangements for his funeral services.

Visitation will be held Tuesday, May 19^th from 5 to 7 PM with a Parastas service to follow at seven o’clock at Rairigh-Bence Funeral Home & Crematory, 965 Philadelphia St., Indiana.

A second visitation will be held Wednesday morning from 9 to 10 AM, with funeral service starting at ten o’clock at Christ Our Savior Orthodox Church, Tanoma Road, Indiana. The Very Reverend Archpriest, George Mitchell, officiant.

Burial with full military honors will be held at Oakland Cemetery in Indiana, where Pfc. Walko will be laid to rest next to his parents, Charles and Matrona Walko and his brother, Samuel Walko.

Online condolences may be made by visiting: rbfh.net

IRMC ANNOUNCES NEW GUIDELINES FOR STROKE CARE THAT WILL EXPAND ACCESS TO TREATMENT

Hometown4 — Thu, 14 May 2026 14:47:48 +0000

Indiana Regional Medical Center has announced new advancements in stroke care that will expand treatment to patients in rural areas.

IRMC has implemented protocols that extend the treatment window for select stroke patients and allow for treatment of incidents where patients wake up with stroke symptoms and the exact time of onset is not known, or “wake-up” strokes. These protocols are in alignment with updated guidelines from the American Heart Association and American Stroke Association.

Originally, certain medications were only offered to patients within a small window when the stroke began. The new procedure will allow eligible patients to get treatment past the old time limits.

In an interview on Indiana in the Morning on WCCS, IRMC Neurologist Dr. Michael Sauter said that despite these advancements, time is still a critical factor in a stroke, and you should never wait for symptoms to stop.

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IRMC says that adopting these updated guidelines reinforces their commitment to delivering high quality stroke care and ensures that rural patients have access to the most current treatments.

WHITE TOWNSHIP SUPERVISORS APPROVE RESOLUTIONS FOR SEWER WORK AT TWO DEVELOPMENTS IN THE TOWNSHIP

Hometown4 — Wed, 13 May 2026 19:01:46 +0000

Wednesday afternoon, the White Township Supervisors approved two resolutions pertaining to new land developments in the township.

Those resolutions were pertaining to sanitary sewage plans for both the Rustic Lodge Development and The Pathway Homeless Shelter. Township Manager Chris Anderson said that the approval of those resolutions was required in order for the Department of Environmental Protection to allow development to move forward.

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The resolution for Rustic Lodge Development passed unanimously, while the resolution for the shelter passed 4-1.

Anderson also noted that due to how busy the Planning Commission has been lately, they have not had time to make progress with the junk vehicle ordinance, but said they haven’t forgotten about it.

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The supervisors will meet again May 27^th at 1 p.m..

THOMAS FEULMER, SR., 83

Hometown4 — Wed, 13 May 2026 15:16:40 +0000

Thomas “Tom” Carl Feulmer, Sr., 83, of Indiana, passed away peacefully Thursday, April 23, 2026, at The Fountains.

A son of the late John and Eleanore (Trump) Feulmer, he was born March 12, 1943, in Greensburg.

Tom graduated from Indiana Joint High School in 1961. Two days after graduation, he entered the U.S. Air Force. The Air Force sent him to Syracuse University to study as a Russian Linquist and then to serve in intelligence and translation on the Island of Wakkanai in Northern Japan. Following this tour, he returned to Texas and remained there for almost 30 years working in various occupations after graduating with a Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology from the University of Texas in Arlington. In 1991, he returned to Indiana and married Judith A. Fleming Dotts in 1993 and again in 2023.

Tom had many interests and a variety of skills. He loved the outdoors including fishing and hunting. Tom was well skilled in typewriter and sewing machine repairs. He was a gunsmith, as well as a master at restoring chairs, particularly those that needed to the caned. Woodworking projects were numerous. The love of flying never ended. He completed his first solo flight at the age of 65 at Indiana County-Jimmy Stewart Airport.

He is survived by his best friend and loving wife, Judith A. (Fleming) Dotts Feulmer, of Indiana; a son, Thomas C. Feulmer, Jr., of Dallas, TX; step-children: Sam Dotts and wife Patty, of Blairsville; Chip Dotts and wife Corrina Quist, of Indiana; step-grandchildren: Charlie Dotts, Julie Nickas, A.J. Nickas and Susie Nickas; his siblings: John “Butch” W. Feulmer, Jr. and wife June, of Shelocta; Jerry Feulmer and wife Linda, of Indiana; Mary Feulmer Wilson and husband Randy, of Houston, TX; and Mark Feulmer and wife Robin, of Florida; sisters-in-law, Kathy Feulmer and Lynda Feeney; a brother-in-law, David Thayer; and numerous nieces, nephews, great nieces and great nephews.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a brother, Eric Feulmer and a sister, Linda Feulmer Thayer.

Visitation will be held from 10 a.m. until the time of the memorial service at 11 a.m. Saturday, May 16, 2026, at Robinson-Lytle-Shoemaker Funeral Home, 36 N 7^th Street, Indiana, with Fr. Scott Lill officiating. Military honors will be accorded by the members of Blairsville Military Service Group immediately following the service. Private interment will be in Oakland Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly suggests donations be sent to Tunnels to Towers Foundation, 2361 Hylan Boulevard, Staten Island, NY 10306.

The family would like to extend a special thank you to Penn Hospice, especially Michelle, Kristin, Father Scott, and Erica and to Dr. Matt Nettleton. The family would also like to offer special gratitude to the Fountains family for all their love and support over the years.

To view the online obituary, sign the guest registry or send condolences, please visit

www.shoemakerfamilyservices.com

DEPARTMENT OF ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION HOLDS PUBLIC HEARING ON PROPOSED GAS PIPELINE, COMMUNITY SPEAKS OUT AGAINST IT

Hometown4 — Wed, 13 May 2026 00:15:38 +0000

The Department of Environmental Protection held a public hearing on Homer City Generation’s proposed 5.8-mile natural gas pipeline that is planned to feed the new power plant in Center Township.

The hearing’s focus was a permit application under the National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System. The pipeline would be 30 inches in diameter and run from an interconnect facility in Burrell Township, through Black Lick Township, and to the Center Township site of the power plant.

Many Indiana County residents, as well as community members of surrounding counties spoke about a variety of concerns, including pollution of streams and cold water fisheries, air pollution from particulate matter and carbon dioxide, and what would be done should certain rules or regulations not be followed.

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The DEP will compile all of the questions with their answers into a document and release it for the public to view.

ELVA BLACK, 92

Hometown4 — Mon, 11 May 2026 13:10:38 +0000

Elva “Dolly” Black, 92, of Indiana, died Friday, May 8, 2026, surrounded by her family. Born on November 8, 1933, in Creighton, she was the daughter of the late Lloyd and Emily (Mattern) Schreckengost. Dolly was the wife of the late John C. Black who died in July 23,2017.

Dolly was a graduate of East Deer High School and dedicated 28 years of service to the snack bar at Mohawk Lanes before retiring. During her years there, she also enjoyed one of her favorite pastimes—bowling, and was an active member of many bowling leagues throughout her life, continuing to bowl until the age of 90.

Dolly found joy in life’s simple pleasures, including playing Bingo and visiting casinos with her daughters. She loved cooking for her family and took great pride in preparing holiday meals, especially making her famous pigs in the blanket for the annual family reunion. Above all, Dolly cherished the time she spent with her family and friends, creating memories that will be treasured for years to come.

Dolly is survived by her children: Keith Stuck, of Indiana, Karan (Jerry) Elliott, of York, Emily (Tom) Hawk, of Indiana, and Craig Stuck, of Indiana. She will be missed by 23 grandchildren; and 14 great-grandchildren; and her great-great granddaughter. Dolly is also survived by her brother: Richard Schreckengost; and numerous nieces and nephews.

In addition to her parents, Dolly was preceded in death by her husband John C. Black; her son: Kenneth Stuck; her granddaughter: Jennifer Stuck; and 10 siblings.

Visitation will be held from 2:00 to 4:00 and 6:00 to 8:00 on Tuesday, May 12, 2026 at Rairigh-Bence Funeral Home & Crematory. Her funeral service will be held at the funeral home on Wednesday at 11:00 with Pastor Bob Kephart officiating.

In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to 365 Hospice:115 Main St, Carroltown, Pa 15722.

LEORA RAGER, 93

Hometown4 — Sat, 09 May 2026 15:14:18 +0000

Leora G. Rager, 93, of Johnstown, went to be with the Lord on May 5, 2026. Daughter of the late Leora Grace (Greer) and Carl L. Rager.

Survived by her brother, John, and favorite niece, Amy Noel. Leora retired from Dale High School and the Ferndale Area School District. She especially enjoyed music, reading, theater, and traveling.

Leora was a life member of Luther Chapel Church in Coral, PA, where she served as organist and pianist for over 50 years. Was a member of the Alden Kindred in America, American Association of University Women, and Beta Epsilon Chapter of Delta Kappa Gamma.

Friends and Family will be received on Wednesday from 10 AM until the funeral service at 1 PM at Luther Chapel Church in Coral. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Luther Chapel Church.

Thanks are to be extended to the Association for the Blind and Physically Handicapped, and to the helpful workers at Heritage Ridge for the past years of care.

Please visit bowserfh to order flowers and to sign the online guestbook.

PENGUINS’ PARKER WORTHERSPOON TO REPRESENT CANADA AT IIHF WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP

Hometown4 — Sat, 09 May 2026 08:44:23 +0000

Penguins defenseman Parker Wotherspoon will represent Team Canada at the 2026 IIHF World Championship.

Wotherspoon joins Pittsburgh’s Jason Spezza, who is serving as Team Canada’s Assistant General Manager, and Strength and Conditioning Coach Sean Young, who is assuming his same role. This year’s World Championship will be held from May 15-31 in Zurich and Fribourg, Switzerland.

The defenseman, who recently completed his third season in the NHL, just came off a career year where he established new career highs in games played (80), goals (3), assists (27), points (30) and plus/minus (+17) while serving on the Penguins’ top defensive pairing with Erik Karlsson. He also led the team in blocked shots (114) and ranked second in hits (162). Wotherspoon also dressed in six postseason games for the Penguins, recording one assist and averaging 22:06 minutes per game.

This will be the first time the Surrey, British Columbia native has represented Team Canada since the World Under-18 Championship in 2015 where he helped Canada win a bronze medal, notching five points in seven games.

STEELERS SIGN GABRIEL RUBIO TO FOUR-YEAR CONTRACT

Hometown4 — Sat, 09 May 2026 08:43:04 +0000

The Steelers have signed sixth-round draft pick Gabriel Rubio to a four-year contract.

Rubio, a defensive end out of Notre Dame, was selected 210th overall in the 2026 NFL Draft. He played in 39 career games for the Fighting Irish, recording 66 tackles, seven tackles for loss, and one-and-a-half sacks. Steelers defensive coordinator Patrick Graham says Rubio’s size, length, and ability to stop the run make him a strong fit for the team’s defensive front. Rubio also brings versatility along the line, which is something Graham says is key for the Steelers’ scheme. He’s also got Pittsburgh ties. Rubio is the son of former Steelers nose tackle Angel Rubio, and says his father has already been offering advice as he begins his NFL career.

IUP SOFTBALL TIES PROGRAM WINS RECORD, LOSES TO WEST CHESTER IN SEMIFINALS

Hometown4 — Sat, 09 May 2026 08:38:56 +0000

IUP softball tied a program record for wins Friday, but saw its PSAC Tournament run end in the semifinals.

The Crimson Hawks opened the day with a 2-1 win over West Chester, securing their 38th victory of the season—matching the 2010 and 2011 teams for the most in program history. Junior Kendall Young tossed a complete game, allowing one run, while IUP’s defense played error-free behind her. Trailing in the sixth, the Hawks rallied, tying the game on an RBI single from Jess Cekada before Sydni Hoobler delivered the go-ahead RBI triple. IUP later fell to East Stroudsburg 7-3 in an elimination game. The Warriors scored six early runs, and a late rally by the Hawks came up short. The Crimson Hawks now await their postseason fate.

IUP BASEBALL FALLS TO WEST CHESTER IN PSAC SEMIFINALS

Hometown4 — Sat, 09 May 2026 08:37:56 +0000

IUP baseball’s PSAC championship run came to an end Friday with a 6-2 loss to defending champion West Chester in the semifinals.

The top-ranked Golden Rams held the Crimson Hawks to just three hits. Starter Kyle Lazer went six innings before reliever Luke Raho shut the door, striking out six of nine batters and allowing no hits. Cameron Copple took the loss for IUP, giving up three runs in three innings, while the Hawks used seven pitchers. West Chester built a 5-0 lead through four innings. IUP answered in the fifth with an RBI single from Anthony Diodata and added another run in the frame.

Diodata, Erik Rhodes, and Camden Rhude had IUP’s only hits.

The Crimson Hawks now await their postseason fate after dropping out of the regional rankings.

FIRST RESPONDERS DEAL WITH STRUCTURE FIRE, LANDING ZONES ON FRIDAY

Hometown4 — Sat, 09 May 2026 08:36:12 +0000

First responders had a busy day yesterday.

The day began with a structure fire reported at 2:53 a.m.. Indiana Fire Association was sent to a 6-unit apartment building on 11^th Street, where it was found that an outside trashcan had caught fire. The blaze spread to an exterior staircase, causing moderate damage, but the main building remained unharmed. No one was displaced or injured. Crews were on scene for about two hours.

There were also two instances of landing zones being set up. The first was on Route 403 North in Green Township at 4:27 p.m.. Commodore Fire Department was dispatched at the time. The second happened at 7:30 p.m. on Smyrna Road in South Mahoning Township. Plumville fire department was sent to assist.

An automatic fire alarm activation was also reported just before midnight for a location on North 4^th street in Indiana Borough. Indiana Fire Association responded.

OFFICIALS EXPECT HEAVY TRAFFIC FOR GRADUATION

Hometown4 — Sat, 09 May 2026 08:35:15 +0000

Traffic is expected to be heavy around the Kovalchick Complex today as Indiana University of Pennsylvania holds its spring commencement ceremonies.

Officials are urging drivers to allow extra time and use caution as families and graduates make their way to campus throughout the day.

IUP is awarding more than 1,400 degrees during three ceremonies, with students from across multiple colleges taking part. Each ceremony will feature student speakers and the traditional walk across the stage for graduates.

The class includes more than 1,000 bachelor’s degrees, along with hundreds of graduate-level degrees. More than 600 students are graduating with honors, including several dozen with perfect GPAs.

University President Dr. Michael Driscoll is presiding over all three ceremonies. They will be live streamed, with tickets needed for admission.

CBS NEWS LEAVES WDAD, NBC NEWS STEPS IN

Hometown4 — Sat, 09 May 2026 08:34:26 +0000

Listeners of our classic hits station, WDAD, may notice a new source for national news.

Starting today, the station is now carrying NBC News. This comes after CBS announced in late March of this year that it is shutting down its storied radio news service after nearly 100 years, with the final report scheduled for Friday, May 22^nd. The decision is part of a restructuring and layoffs due to economic pressures and changing audience habits.

WDAD, who celebrated its 80^th anniversary last year, carried CBS news for the entirety of its time on air, all the way back to its founding in 1945.

CBS will remain a major, active television network, producing and broadcasting extensive news related content.

BETTY GRESSLEY, 93

Hometown4 — Fri, 08 May 2026 15:37:28 +0000

Betty L. Gressley, 93, of Penn Run, passed away peacefully on May 6, 2026.

Born on October 27, 1932, she was the beloved daughter of the late Albert and Sarah (Straw) Smith. She was preceded in death by her husband, Richard “Peck” Gressley and her sister, Dorothy Cannizzaro.

Betty was a woman of deep and abiding faith who dedicated her life to her church and family. She was a faithful and active member of Harmony United Presbyterian Church for over 70 years where she served as Sunday School Primary Superintendent, teacher, and most recently as the treasurer. She also shared her love of music by singing alto in the church choir for many years.

She worked at McCreary Tire and later in the Purchasing Department at Indiana University of Pennsylvania, where she was known for her strong work ethic and kind spirit.

Above all, she cherished her family. She is survived by her two daughters, Lori (Dick) Lavanish and Karen (Ron) Alsop. She was a proud and loving grandmother to four grandchildren, Adelle (Tim) Dolney, Evan (Amanda) Lavanish, Ian (Courtney) Lavanish, Jordan (Julie) Alsop and a devoted great-grandmother to five great-grandchildren, Ella, Mia, Easton, Arlo, and Kade. She rarely missed an opportunity to attend their sporting events and activities, and if she couldn’t be there in person, she was cheering them on from home. She is also survived by her sister, Mary “Peggy” Dickey, and a niece, nephews, and cousins.

She had a love for sports, especially football and basketball, and could often be found watching games on TV. She also enjoyed completing word searches, reading, and journaling every day. Known for her sweet and loving nature, she brought warmth and joy to everyone around her. She had a fondness for simple pleasures, including her daily Diet Coke and favorite Nutty Buddies.

She will be remembered for her unwavering faith, gentle heart, and deep love for her family.

Visitation will be held at the McCabe Roof Funeral Home, 565 Franklin St., Clymer, from 2:00-6:00 pm on Monday, May 11, 2026. Additional visitation will be held at 10:00 am at Harmony United Presbyterian Church, Penn Run, on Tuesday, May 12, 2026 followed by a service to celebrate her life at 11:00 am by Pastor Donna Kanouff, Celebrant. Interment will follow at Harmony Cemetery, Penn Run.

Memorial contributions may be made to Harmony United Presbyterian Church, P.O. Box 495, Penn Run, PA 15765.

Betty will be deeply missed and forever loved.

Online condolences may be made at www.mccaberooffh.com.

BRUSH VALLEY WOMAN SENTENCED TO JAIL TIME FOR STEALING MONEY FROM HER MOTHER

Hometown4 — Fri, 08 May 2026 14:37:08 +0000

District attorney Robert Manzi has announced that a Brush Valley woman will serve jail time after admitting she stole money from her elderly mother.

Sixty-five-year-old Kathy Sue Twigg pleaded guilty to financial exploitation and theft after failing to pay for her mother’s nursing home care while serving as power of attorney.

Prosecutors say Twigg instead used the money for personal expenses, including online gambling, which led to her 93-year-old mother being removed from a care facility.

Twigg was sentenced to four to nearly 24 months in the county jail, and must pay restitution, undergo mental health treatment, and is barred from serving in any fiduciary role in the future.

ALLEGHENY HEALTH NETWORK SET TO UNVEIL NEW MEDICAL TRANSPORT HELICOPTER

Hometown4 — Fri, 08 May 2026 11:54:00 +0000

Allegheny Health Network is updating its LifeFlight fleet with new helicopters, the first of which will be unveiled today, and residents could soon see it flying over Indiana County.

The ribbon cutting and unveiling will be held at 12:30 today at Allegheny General Hospital in Pittsburgh.

The new H145 D3 medical transport helicopter is the first of its class in the state and among the most advanced air medical helicopters operating in the U.S..

This is the first of four such helicopters that will be added to the fleet, which is being funded by a $55 million investment. AHN says that the new machine will be in operation this month.

For nearly 50 years, AHN LifeFlight has been a vital resource, providing critical air medical transport services for patient care across western Pennsylvania, including here in Indiana County.

U.S. SENATOR DAVE MCCORMICK MEETS WITH HOMER CITY REDEVELOPMENT IN PITTSBURGH

Hometown4 — Fri, 08 May 2026 10:52:45 +0000

US Senator Dave McCormick met with members of the Homer City Redevelopment team in Pittsburgh on Thursday.

CEO of Homer City Redevelopment Corey Hessen walked Senator McCormick through a drone video of the site and gave updates on the cleanup and construction progress.

McCormick said that this will be “good for Pennsylvanians” and that it “should help contribute to lowering energy prices, not increasing them.”.

He hopes to inspire similar projects by speeding up permit reviews on a federal level by sponsoring legislation that would require federal permits meant to prevent harm to waterways be granted or denied within one year of application. It would also limit court challenges to permits and increase the license for nuclear plants from 40 years to 60.

The first of seven natural gas turbines is scheduled to be delivered to the Homer City site in June, with the project set to wrap up in 2029 .

PENNDOT ANNOUNCES OVER $160 MILLION IN ROAD PROJECTS ACROSS REGION

Hometown4 — Fri, 08 May 2026 10:50:46 +0000

PennDOT is rolling out more than $160 million in road and bridge work across the region this year, with several projects focused on Indiana County.

Among the highlights is a nearly $2 million project that will replace a bridge along Route 286 in White Township near Sexton Road, with work expected to wrap up in 2027.

Drivers will also see continued progress on a $4.3 million safety improvement project at the intersection of Indian Springs Road and Rustic Lodge Road. That work includes new turn lanes, widening, and a traffic signal, with completion expected later this year. In addition, about 25 miles of rural roads in eastern Indiana County are being paved and improved as part of a broader effort to upgrade lower-traffic routes.

PennDOT says the projects are aimed at improving safety, ride quality, and long-term reliability across the county’s transportation network.

SENTENCING TODAY FOR MAN ACCUSED IN BLAIRSVILLE THEFTS

Hometown4 — Fri, 08 May 2026 10:49:59 +0000

Indiana County’s courts have an active schedule today, including the sentencing of a man accused of theft in incidents from February of this year.

Court documents show 22-year-old Devon Bartlebaugh is charged with two counts of theft by unlawful taking for the incidents that happened on February 1st and 6th. According to police, Bartlebaugh had taken a .22 revolver and a safe from a residence along North Walnut Street.

Bartlebaugh was arraigned before District Magistrate Christopher Welch and has been lodged in the Indiana County Jail in lieu of $10,000 bond.

INDIANA COUNTY COMMUNITY SUPPORT PROGRAM SPONSORING ‘MENTAL HEALTH AWARENESS FAIR’ THIS AFTERNOON

Hometown4 — Fri, 08 May 2026 10:49:08 +0000

The Indiana County Community Support Program is sponsoring a Mental Health Awareness Fair this afternoon.

The fair will be held from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. at Mack Memorial Park in Indiana, and helps bring awareness to mental health struggles, as well as the resources that are available to people who may need them.

The event is superhero themed, and will feature food and refreshments, a basket raffle, a foam party, face painting and resource tables, all provided by over 50 local organizations and businesses.

Aggie Hockenberry with the CSP says that finding mental health resources can be overwhelming, and having so many organizations in one place makes things much easier.

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The fair is free and open to all ages.

FIRST RESPONDERS ANSWER TWO FIRE CALLS THURSDAY, ONE FRIDAY MORNING

Hometown4 — Fri, 08 May 2026 10:47:34 +0000

First responders answered two calls for fires yesterday.

The first was a vehicle fire and was reported at 11:49 a.m. on Oakland Avenue in Indiana Borough. Indiana Fire Association was sent at the time.

The other was a reported brush fire at 2:52 p.m. for a location on Newhouse Road somewhere in Westmoreland County. Blairsville fire crews were sent to assist.

Crews were also called out for a structure fire early this morning. It was reported at 2:53 at a 6-unit apartment building located on 11^th street in Indiana Borough. Fire officials say that the blaze started in a trash can and spread to an exterior staircase. The main building was not damaged, and most of the crews called for assistance were recalled. No one was injured or displaced.

IUP COUNCIL OF TRUSTEES ANNOUNCE $4 MILLION DONATION, ENDORSE TUITION FOR PROPOSED COLLEGE OF OSTEOPATHIC MEDICINE

Hometown4 — Thu, 07 May 2026 22:18:46 +0000

Thursday afternoon, the IUP Council of Trustees announced a $4 million donation towards the proposed college of osteopathic medicine.

The donation comes from an unnamed Pittsburgh foundation, and brings the total for the university’s Impact 150 comprehensive fundraising campaign to $114.5 million, which is 76% of their $150 million goal.

IUP President Dr. Michael Driscoll says that this donation shows that people understand the vision and connect with the goal of the college.

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Council also endorsed tuition and fees for the proposed college. The in-state tuition would be about $43,200 per semester, and the out-of-state rate would be about $65,000, on top of other fees. Driscoll says that this will allow physicians to get to work in their communities quicker, without having to worry about student loans.

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The proposed college currently holds “candidate status” with the American Osteopathic Association’s Commission on Osteopathic College Accreditation, which is the second step in the process.

IUP NAMES DR. TODD THOMPSON DIRECTOR OF COOK HONORS COLLEGE

Hometown4 — Thu, 07 May 2026 12:23:57 +0000

Indiana University of Pennsylvania has named Dr. Todd Thompson as the new director of the Robert E. Cook Honors College.

Thompson is a professor of English in the Department of Language, Literature, and Writing, and will begin the role on May 18th. University officials said he was selected following a campus-wide search, citing his experience in honors education and leadership roles at IUP and other institutions.

Outgoing director Dr. Chauna Craig was recognized for her leadership since 2019, including efforts to strengthen recruitment and revise curriculum. She will remain on the IUP faculty.

Thompson has been with IUP since 2009 and has taught across honors, English, and graduate programs. He said he is honored to lead the Cook Honors College and looks forward to building connections across campus.

ERMA JOHNSTON, 85

Hometown4 — Thu, 07 May 2026 10:46:48 +0000

Erma M. Johnston, 85, of Homer City, passed away peacefully, surrounded by the love of her family. Born on March 12, 1941, in Indiana, Pennsylvania, she was the daughter of the late Clarence and Dessie (Overman) Duncan.

Erma enjoyed the simple pleasures in life. She loved going for walks, caring for flowers, and spending time with her beloved cats. She was well known for her kind heart and gentle nature. She delivered the Blairsville Dispatch for many years. She also worked for the Homer-Center School District in the cleaning department, where she was appreciated for her hard work and dedication.

Erma was the last surviving member of her immediate family. She is survived by her sister-in-law, Susan Duncan; her nieces and nephews, Jessica Hoover, Scott Duncan, Jason Duncan, and several great-nieces and great-nephews, Adam, Dusty, Jon, Chris, Kayla, and Emily.

In addition to her parents and her husband, Joseph Johnston, she was preceded in death by her family members who went before her.

Friends will be received Saturday from 10 AM until the time of the Funeral Service at 1 PM at Bowser Funeral Home and Cremation Services, Inc., Homer City, with Pastor Paul Price, officiating. Interment to follow in the Coral Lutheran Cemetery, Coral.

Please visit bowserfh.com to order flowers or sign the online guestbook.

STATE HOUSE DESIGNATES MAY 20TH ‘JIMMY STEWART DAY’ IN THE COMMONWEALTH

Hometown4 — Thu, 07 May 2026 10:41:22 +0000

House Resolution 420 has been approved by the Pennsylvania House of Representatives, officially designating May 20^th as Jimmy Stewart Day in the commonwealth.

State Rep. Jim Struzzi says the resolution recognizes Stewart’s lasting impact as both a Hollywood icon and a decorated World War II veteran. While Stewart is known for a long film career, the resolution also highlights his military service, where he rose to brigadier general and received multiple honors, including the Distinguished Flying Cross and Air Medal.

Struzzi says the designation is a way to honor Stewart’s legacy and his connection to Indiana County.

The measure also comes with a special event in downtown Indiana. The Jimmy Stewart Museum and the production companies behind the upcoming biopic ‘Jimmy’ will be teaming up to bring a special exhibit to the museum. In an interview on Indiana in the Morning on WCCS, Jen Buckles with the Jimmy Stewart Museum talked about what that exhibit will feature.

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Visitors will also have a chance to meet K.J. Apa, playing Jimmy in the movie, director Aaron Burns and Kelly Stewart-Harcourt, executive producer and daughter of Jimmy.

IUP NAMES DR. WALEED FARAG 2026-27 DISTINGUISHED UNIVERSITY PROFESSOR

Hometown4 — Thu, 07 May 2026 10:23:31 +0000

IUP has named computer science professor Dr. Waleed Farag as its 2026–2027 Distinguished University Professor, the university’s highest faculty honor recognizing excellence in teaching, research, and service.

Farag, who directs IUP’s Institute for Cybersecurity, has been a faculty member since 2002 and has helped build the university’s cybersecurity program into a nationally recognized effort. He has secured more than $20 million in external funding across dozens of federal and state projects, including major Department of Defense and National Science Foundation awards focused on cybersecurity workforce development and research.

University leaders say his work has strengthened student mentoring, expanded applied research opportunities, and elevated IUP’s national reputation in cybersecurity education. As Distinguished University Professor, Farag will receive a reduced teaching load to focus on a new initiative studying cybersecurity workforce pipelines and regional STEM education gaps. He will hold the title for life

STATE POLICE ANNOUNCE FREE CHILD CAR SEAT SAFETY CHECK DAYS

Hometown4 — Thu, 07 May 2026 10:22:26 +0000

Pennsylvania State Police are offering free child car seat safety checks in Indiana County as part of the national “Click It or Ticket” campaign. Trained troopers will help caregivers inspect, install, and properly secure child passenger seats.

The first event is scheduled for Tuesday, May 12, from 2 to 6:30 p.m. The second will be held Wednesday, May 13, from 2 to 5:30 p.m. Both will take place at the Jimmy Stewart Airport.

Officials say no appointment is needed, and the goal is to ensure children are properly restrained and safer on the road.

RESIDENTS OF PARKS TOWNSHIP, ARMSTRONG COUNTY RECEIVE UPDATES ON NUCLEAR CLEANUP PROJECT

Hometown4 — Thu, 07 May 2026 10:21:49 +0000

Residents in Parks Township are getting updates and asking questions as a major nuclear cleanup continues at the Shallow Land Disposal Area. Work is underway on a $500 million project led by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to remove contaminated material buried decades ago at the former NUMEC site.

The cleanup involves excavating thousands of cubic yards of soil from old disposal trenches, packaging the material on-site, and shipping it to licensed disposal facilities. Officials say the process includes multiple rounds of testing, radiation scanning, and air and water monitoring to limit any exposure.

At a community meeting, some residents said they felt reassured after hearing details of the work, but others still want clearer emergency response and evacuation plans in case of an incident. Concerns also remain about exactly what materials are in the trenches.

The Army Corps says safety is the priority as the long-term cleanup continues.

JOHNSTOWN MAN DUE IN COURT FOR CASE OF ASSAULT OF A MINOR

Hometown4 — Thu, 07 May 2026 10:19:27 +0000

An Indiana man is set to appear in court today for a motions hearing in connection with an assault case.

Court documents show that 40-year-old Shane Allen Plummer of Johnstown will go before judge Micheal T. Clark on charges of aggravated indecent assault of a child and indecent assault of a person less than 13 years of age for incidents that date back to August of 2013.

State troopers say he sexually abused the victim, who was five at the time the assaults started, on as many as 20 occasions during a six-year period, from 2013 to 2019. He has been in state prison since his arrest.

‘BIKE TO SCHOOL DAY’ HAPPENING IN INDIANA

Hometown4 — Thu, 07 May 2026 10:18:30 +0000

Students in Indiana will be celebrating Biking and Walking Month with Bike to School Day today.

The ride is included in a series of events aimed at promoting safe and active transportation.

It all begins with registration starting at 7:30 a.m. at George P. Miller Stadium on the IUP campus, followed by a guided ride to Eisenhower Elementary School. Local law enforcement and emergency services will help escort riders, and organizers say breakfast snacks and free bike safety checks will be available.

In an interview on Indiana in the Morning on WCCS, Josh Krug with the Indiana County Office of Planning and Development said that this event not only give them a chance to talk about bike safety with the children, but with parents and guardians also.

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Families are reminded to make sure children have properly fitted helmets and bikes.

More events are planned throughout the month, including a Bike, Walk, or Bus to Work Day on May 15 and a safety workshop on May 21 focused on sharing the road responsibly.

IRENE KOSMACK, 94

Hometown4 — Wed, 06 May 2026 15:27:04 +0000

It is with deep love and gratitude that we celebrate the life of Irene “Dolly” Kosmack. She went home to the lord May 4, 2026. Dolly was a remarkable woman who lived 94 full and meaningful years. She was the heart of her family, a devoted wife, a nurturing mother, a proud grandmother and great-grandmother, a caring sister, and a loyal friend. Her life was a reflection of unwavering faith, quiet strength, and a deep commitment to serving others. As a Eucharistic Minister and active member of her church community, she lived her beliefs daily, finding joy and purpose in her devotion.

Her strength and selflessness were evident not only in her faith but in the sacrifices she made for her family. When tragedy struck, and her son and daughter-in-law were lost in a car accident, she stepped forward without hesitation, retiring to help raise her three grandchildren. Dolly dedicated herself fully to their care and well-being. With love, discipline, and endless devotion, she provided stability, guidance, and a future for her grandchildren. This was an extraordinary testament to her character and resilience.

Dolly spent time as a cook at Indiana Hospital. She was a wonderful cook and found great joy in the kitchen, where so many memories were made. She loved baking and was especially known for her tradition of creating personalized birthday cakes for every member of the family, year after year. Each cake was more than a dessert; it was an expression of love, thoughtfulness, and her joy in celebrating others. She was also famous for her Christmas cookies and took great pride in contributing to beloved Pittsburgh cookie tables, sharing her talents and traditions with family and community. Dolly had a special gift for crocheting, lovingly making afghans for each family member and their babies. In a final act of quiet generosity, she prepared a bin filled with handmade baby afghans, thoughtfully set aside for her great-grandchildren to receive in the years to come. A lasting symbol of her enduring love.

Dolly’s social spirit and zest for life were evident in her many activities. She was a proud member of the Altar Rosary Society and the Red Hat Society, and alongside her husband, she was part of the Red Barn Sportsman’s Club, where they were fondly known as the “Good Timers.” She loved line dancing and polka dancing, bringing energy and laughter wherever she went. She also enjoyed sewing, her coffee, and mowing the grass. She took great pride in her home and yard, always keeping them neat, welcoming, and full of beauty. She especially loved sitting on her porch, greeting and chatting with those passing by on the Hoodlebug Trail. Her simple joy reflected her warm and friendly spirit. Above all, she cherished time spent with those she loved.

She was one of her family’s biggest fans, faithfully attending her children’s, grandchildren’s, and great grandchildren’s sporting events. This was no small feat in such an athletic family. Through countless games, practices, and seasons, she cheered from the sidelines with pride and enthusiasm. She always liked to say that the family got their athleticism from her, a claim shared with a smile and a twinkle in her eye.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Joe; her son, Joe, and daughter-in-law, Jayne; granddaughter-in-law, Faith; her parents, Anna and Michael Valuchuck; and six sisters and one brother.

Dolly is survived by her daughter, Shelly McGaughey (husband Norm), grandchildren Joe Kosmack (wife Bianca), Janine (husband Chuck), Jason (wife Cortney, Taylor (husband Kevin), Sean (wife Jackie), and nine great-grandchildren.

While her passing leaves a profound void, there is comfort in imagining her joyfully arriving at “The Party,” reunited with those who left her soon. Dolly’s legacy will live on through the family she cherished, the lives she touched, and the traditions she created. She will be dearly missed, but her spirit will continue to guide and inspire all who knew her.

Visitation will be held Thursday, May 7, 2026, from 2:00-4:00 p.m. and 6:00-8:00 p.m. at Bowser Funeral Home and Cremation Services, Inc., Homer City. A Blessing Service will be held on Friday, May 8, 2026, at 10:30 a.m. at the funeral home, followed by a Funeral Mass at 11 a.m. at Our Lady of the Assumption Parish, Lucernemines Site. Interment will follow at the church cemetery.

Please visit bowserfh.com to order flowers or to sign the online guestbook.

JOHN FLICKINGER, 72

Hometown4 — Wed, 06 May 2026 12:54:54 +0000

John Edward Flickinger, 72, of Blairsville, PA (Derry Township), passed away Monday, May 4, 2026, at Allegheny General Hospital in Pittsburgh.

He was born April 29, 1954, in Johnstown, PA, the son of Ann (Flickinger) Lentz.

John was a 1973 graduate of Derry High School. He worked for Ralph J. Myers Roofing Company in Pittsburgh until retiring.

He was a member of the Derry Rod and Gun Club and enjoyed hunting and fishing with his sons and grandsons.

John spent his mornings enjoying coffee with friends at Dean’s Diner.

He will be remembered for his love of the outdoors, his quiet kindness, and the time he spent with family and friends.

Surviving are his wife of 51 years, Joyce M. (Hranko) Flickinger, whom he married September 7, 1974; two children, Jodi Steffey (Justin) of Blairsville and Justin Flickinger (Karen) of Blairsville; six grandchildren, Evan, Ian, Aiden, Damen, Alyssa, and Allen; and four siblings, Susie Flickinger of Latrobe, Jeff Lentz of Blairsville, Pam Lentz of Derry, and Tammy Lentz of Blairsville.

He was preceded in death by his son, Jeremy J. Flickinger, on August 2, 2015.

The family will receive friends on Thursday, May 7, 2026, from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., in the Shoemaker Funeral Home, Inc., 49 N. Walnut St., Blairsville, PA.

To view the online obituary, sign the guestbook, or send condolences, visit www.shoemakerfamilyservices.com.

RICHARD RAY, 92

Hometown4 — Wed, 06 May 2026 12:52:16 +0000

Richard Edwin Ray, 92, of Indiana, passed away on Friday, April 24, 2026 at the Fountains in Indiana. He was born in Nicola, Armstrong County, to the late James Herbert Ray Sr. and Mary Campbell Lamison Ray on July 10, 1933. He graduated from Worthington-West Franklin High in 1950 and joined the United States Navy in August of that year. Richard served as a Radio Operator on the USS Amphion, receiving the National Defense Service Medal and Good Conduct Medal, and was honorably discharged in May 1954. While still in the Navy, Richard married B. Marlene Hankinson in Chicora, PA on March 3, 1953.

Following his discharge from the Navy, Richard attended Indiana State Teachers College as an English major and graduated in 1958 with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Education. He taught English at Butler Junior High School from 1958 to 1965, working alongside his brother Perry, who taught Science there at the same time. After receiving his Master of Science Degree in English from Indiana University of Pennsylvania (IUP) in 1965, Richard joined the English Department faculty at the Kittanning Center of IUP and taught there until 1968. While at the Kittanning Center he also coached the baseball team. Richard was a member of the Hill United Presbyterian Church during his time living in Butler, and served as a Deacon at the church. He spent a year of residency at Bowling Green State University in Bowling Green, Ohio, working towards a Doctor of Philosophy Degree in English, before joining the English Department faculty at the Indiana campus of IUP in 1969. After moving to Indiana, he joined Graystone Presbyterian Church.

Richard obtained his Doctor of Philosophy Degree in English from Bowling Green State University in 1973. He served as Chairman of the English Department at IUP from 1976 to 1979 and later assumed the role of Associate Dean of the Graduate School prior to returning to teach in the English Department. In 1984 he co-authored a textbook with two other IUP English Department professors, “Style and Readability in Technical Writing,” and taught technical writing seminars with his co-authors at several universities with engineering programs. While at IUP, he was a member of the American Dialect Society. When he was not teaching during Summer Sessions, Richard did home addition and remodeling work with one of his English Department colleagues.

After a 27-year career at IUP as a teacher and administrator, Richard retired in 1992. At the beginning of his retirement, he built a three-car garage and then later converted much of the 2 1/2- acre property behind his home in Indiana into an orchard, growing pears, peaches and numerous varieties of apples. He sought advice from other experienced apple growers and became skilled at grafting apple trees. Richard was also an avid fly fisherman throughout his life and enjoyed trout fishing in various streams in Pennsylvania.

Richard is survived by his son, Richard Edwin (Jean) Jr. of Hightstown, New Jersey, and four grandchildren. Also surviving are his sister Shirley Hardies of Severna Park, MD and his brother Donald (Nancy) Ray of Poland, Ohio and a number of nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents, Richard was preceded in death by his son Steven Eric Ray; his wife of 69 years, B. Marlene Ray; his brothers, Wilbert, William, James Herbert Jr., Adam, George, and Perry; and his sisters Sarah Ellenberger, Elsie Couch, Martha Ryder Ellenberger, and Berniece (Jean) Maley.

Friends will be received by the family from 10 AM until the time of service at 12 PM on Saturday, May 9 at the Donahue-Tylinski Funeral Home (formerly Bowser Minich), 500 Ben Franklin Road, Indiana, with

Reverend David Hanna officiating. Burial will follow at Oakland Cemetery where military honors will be accorded. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to a charity of choice.

PUBLIC MEETING DISCUSSING UPCOMING INFRASTRUCTURE PROJECTS TO BE HELD THURSDAY

Hometown4 — Wed, 06 May 2026 11:22:12 +0000

The Southwestern Pennsylvania Commission and the Indiana County Public Participation Panel will host a public meeting tomorrow to discuss regional transportation planning and upcoming infrastructure projects.

Residents of Indiana County are invited to the CareerLink Building on Indian Springs Road in Indiana for the session from 3 to 5 p.m..

Officials will give a brief presentation on the region’s Transportation Improvement Program, which outlines planned roadway, bridge, and transit projects for 2027 through 2030. Staff from SPC, PennDOT, and local counties will be on hand to answer questions and gather public feedback.

A draft of the plan, along with project maps, will be available for review online beginning the day of the meeting.

Those unable to attend can submit comments by email or through an online form, or by mail to the Southwestern Pennsylvania Commission in Pittsburgh.

Email comments to comments@spcregion.org

FIRST RESPONDERS CALLED OUT FOR ELEVATOR RESCUE

Hometown4 — Wed, 06 May 2026 08:56:14 +0000

First responders yesterday answered a call for a physical rescue.

The call came in at 8:42 p.m. for a location on North Walk in Indiana Borough. Initial reports indicate that Indiana Fire Association was sent out for an elevator rescue. No other details have been made available at this time.

Other calls for service included a call for utility lines down near South Lytle Street in Brushvalley Township and a smoke investigation at Dogwood Circle in White Township. Indiana fire crews would be sent out both times.

SHAPIRO HIGHLIGHTS STEPS TO MODERNIZE GOVERNMENT WORKPLACES

Hometown4 — Wed, 06 May 2026 08:55:37 +0000

The Shapiro administration is highlighting another step in its effort to modernize state government workplaces, unveiling a renovated Office of State Inspector General workspace at Forum Place in Harrisburg.

The project is part of the Department of General Services’ Space Optimization and Utilization Project, or SOUP, a broader initiative aimed at reducing unused office space, improving efficiency, and updating state facilities as more employees return to in-person work.

Officials say the long-term effort is expected to save the Commonwealth more than $180 million in lease costs by 2033 by right-sizing office footprints across state agencies.

ATTORNEY GENERAL SUNDAY URGES SPIRIT CUSTOMERS TO ACT QUICKLY ON REFUNDS

Hometown4 — Wed, 06 May 2026 08:54:41 +0000

Attorney General Dave Sunday is urging Pennsylvania consumers with Spirit Airlines bookings to act quickly following the airline’s sudden shutdown, which has left many travelers stranded or seeking refunds.

Consumers are being told to first contact their credit card companies, third-party booking sites, or Spirit directly to try to recover costs. If those efforts are unsuccessful, they can file a complaint with the state Office of Attorney General’s Bureau of Consumer Protection.

The office is also advising travelers not to go to the airport, since all Spirit flights have been canceled, and to check the airline’s restructuring website for refund information and updates.

Officials say other airlines are working to rebook affected passengers, but consumers should act quickly to preserve their ability to dispute charges. Because Spirit has filed for bankruptcy, some refund claims may ultimately need to be handled through the federal bankruptcy process.

IUP TO AWARD OVER 1,400 DEGREES AT SATURDAY’S COMMENCEMENT

Hometown4 — Wed, 06 May 2026 08:53:29 +0000

IUP will award 1,452 degrees during three commencement ceremonies this Saturday at the Kovalchick Convention and Athletic Complex in Indiana.

The graduating class includes 1,062 bachelor’s degrees, 304 master’s degrees, 66 doctorates and 10 associate degrees. Thirty-seven undergraduates are finishing with a perfect 4.0 GPA, and more than 600 students are graduating with honors.

Ceremonies are set for 8:30 a.m., 1 p.m. and 5 p.m., divided by college, with graduates from education, business, health sciences, liberal arts and STEM fields all taking part.

Student speakers will represent each ceremony, including graduates in finance, nursing, and public affairs, along with doctoral and master’s students highlighting academic and leadership achievements.

IUP President Michael Driscoll will preside over all three ceremonies, and each graduate will be recognized by name as they cross the stage. The ceremonies will also be livestreamed, with tickets required for admission

PENNSYLVANIA AMERICAN WATER PLANS TO INVEST MILLIONS IN AGING WATER INFRASTRUCTURE

Hometown4 — Wed, 06 May 2026 08:52:20 +0000

A new report is highlighting the growing cost of maintaining Pennsylvania’s water systems, and what it could mean for customers.

The American Water Works Association estimates up to $2.4 trillion will be needed nationwide over the next 25 years to upgrade aging infrastructure. Here in Pennsylvania, utilities say those challenges are already hitting home.

Pennsylvania American Water plans to invest more than $631 million in 2026 alone to improve water and wastewater systems serving more than 2.5 million people. That follows more than $700 million in upgrades completed last year.

Officials say the costs are being driven not just by aging pipes, but also stricter regulations, climate concerns, and the need to treat more complex water sources.

HOMER CITY BOROUGH COUNCIL APPROVES HIRING THIRD PARTY FOR CODE ENFORCEMENT WORK

Hometown4 — Wed, 06 May 2026 00:06:23 +0000

At their meeting Tuesday night, the Homer City Borough Council approved hiring a third-party company to assist with code enforcement work.

Council approved hiring PA Municipal Code Alliance for work pertaining to code enforcement in the borough. Borough Manager Tonya Weller says that with the police department working part-time and the summer weather moving in, they’ve seen an uptick in code violations. She says that this will help everyone in the borough.

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Council also approved setting fees for right-to-know requests. Weller explains.

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Council will meet again next month.

POLICE PROVIDE DETAILS ON ONE-VEHICLE CRASH IN WEST WHEATFIELD TOWNSHIP

Hometown4 — Tue, 05 May 2026 13:25:02 +0000

State police have released more details on a vehicle accident that happened Monday morning.

Police documents indicate that 19-year-old Yasser Bachra was traveling west on State Route 22 at 3:16 a.m., approaching McClain Road in West Wheatfield Township. He struck the concrete median while traveling in the left lane. He then tried to correct the vehicle back onto the road, but instead drove into the guide rail on the north side of the road head-on. His car spun out and came to rest.

Bachra sustained possible injuries but refused treatment. He was wearing a seatbelt at the time of the accident.

INDIANA COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICE ASKING FOR HELP IN INDENTIFYING SUSPECTS IN WEEKEND INCIDENT

Hometown4 — Tue, 05 May 2026 10:59:35 +0000

The Indiana County Sheriff’s Office is asking for the public’s help in identifying suspects involved in an incident over the weekend.

In a post on their Facebook page, officials with the Sheriff’s Office say that on May 2^nd at around 2 a.m., four individuals were seen damaging property at the Indiana County Courthouse on Philadelphia Street in Indiana Borough.

They urge anyone with information to call (724) 465-3930, extension 1.

GAS PRICES RISE ONCE AGAIN

Hometown4 — Tue, 05 May 2026 09:26:28 +0000

Gas prices are climbing again across Indiana County, where drivers are now paying some of the highest prices in the region.

According to AAA, the average price in Indiana County is about $4.66 a gallon, just slightly below Greensburg at $4.69 and Jeannette at $4.70, but well above areas like Altoona at $4.48 and Bradford at $4.43.

Across Western Pennsylvania, the average price has jumped to about $4.65 a gallon, which is nearly 50 cents higher than just a week ago and more than a dollar higher than this time last year.

The price wars in the 119 corridor in Homer City continue, with both Sheetz and Kwik Fill both showing $4.69, while Accent Fuels remains the lowest of the three at $4.49 a gallon, according to Gasbuddy.com

AAA says the spike is being driven by rising oil prices, increased demand, and shrinking supply, with national averages now at their highest level in four years.

PENNDOT RESCHEDULES OVERNIGHT CLOSURES ON ROUTE 66

Hometown4 — Tue, 05 May 2026 09:24:38 +0000

PennDOT has rescheduled overnight closures on Route 66 as work continues on the Graff and Infantry Bridge preservation projects.

Northbound Route 66 and South Water Street will now close nightly from May 11 through May 29, running from 8 p.m. to 4 a.m., as crews pour the bridge deck and complete other repair work. The schedule was pushed back due to weather, and no closures are planned during the Memorial Day holiday weekend.

During the closures, drivers will be detoured along Route 66 South, Route 128, 17th Street, Hill Street, and back to South Water Street. Officials say all work is weather dependent.

The project is being handled by Swank Construction Company of New Kensington and carries a price tag of $45.6 million. Completion is expected by the end of October 2027.

IUP ANNOUNCES 2026 UNIVERSITY SENATE AWARDS, NEW CLASS OF FACULTY EMERITI

Hometown4 — Tue, 05 May 2026 09:22:35 +0000

Indiana University of Pennsylvania has announced its 2026 University Senate Awards along with a new class of faculty emeriti, recognizing years of academic and professional contributions across campus.

The annual awards, presented by the University Senate since 1969, honor faculty and staff in categories including teaching, research, creative arts, and service. Recipients are recognized during spring commencement ceremonies.

This year’s honorees include Dr. Timothy Paul for creative arts, Dr. Andrea Palmiotto for research, Dr. Gian Pagnucci for service, Dr. Amanda Poole for teaching, and Michelle Fryling for staff service.

IUP also named several retired faculty and administrators as emeriti, a designation recognizing long-term service and impact on the university community. Officials say the honors reflect both academic achievement and dedication to shared governance and student success at the university.

FIRST RESPONDERS ANSWER MANY DIFFERENT CALLS ON MONDAY

Hometown4 — Tue, 05 May 2026 09:18:33 +0000

Indiana County’s emergency crews responded to many different types of calls yesterday.

The first call of the day was at 3:19 a.m. for a report of a vehicle accident on Route 22 East in West Wheatfield Township. Armagh fire department was sent to the scene. The second call was at 3:36 for utility lines down for a location on Store Hill Road in Ernest Borough, with Creekside fire crews responding.

At 3:53, an automatic fire alarm activation was reported on Mountain View Drive in Montgomery Township. Commodore crews were sent out at the time.

The next call would come some time later at 12:16 for a gas leak on East Pike Road in White Township. Indiana Fire Association was called out for that. An hour later, traffic control was set up on Route 22 East in West Wheatfield Township, with Clyde and Armagh/East Wheatfield fire crews sent to assist state police.

Finally, another gas leak was reported just after 3 p.m.. It was reported on Philadelphia Street in Indiana Borough, with IFA and Indiana Borough Police responding.

SENTENCING FOR TWO INVOLVED IN MURDER CASE FROM DECEMBER OF 2023 PUSHED BACK AGAIN

Hometown4 — Mon, 04 May 2026 11:57:03 +0000

The sentencing of Melissa Fox-Beacom and Matthew Bates was scheduled for last Friday, but Westmoreland Couty Judge Megan Bilik-DeFazio re-scheduled it for next Monday, the 11th of May, and now has re-scheduled it again, to the 19th.

In February, Fox-Beacom and Bates were both found guilty of first degree murder along with felony conspiracy and solicitation to murder, and misdemeanor abuse of a corpse in the shooting death of 71-year-old Alice Robson at her home in St. Clair Township, outside of New Florence, in December 2023.

The victim was the mother of Fox-Beacom, whose own daughter was the girlfriend of Bates.

A third defendant, 20-year-old Robert Jack, testified against Fox-Beacom and Bates. He has already admitted that he was the actual gunman. Jack’s trial was originally scheduled for April 13th. It has been moved to an undetermined date, with a status hearing scheduled for July 21st.

STATE POLICE RELEASE MORE DETAILS ON VEHICLE ACCIDENT IN SOUTH MAHONING TOWNSHIP ON SATURDAY

Hometown4 — Mon, 04 May 2026 11:54:25 +0000

State police have released more details about a crash that happened on Saturday.

The accident happened at 11:43 that morning on Route 85, just south of Sinktown Road in South Mahoning Township. Police say that on that day, 20-year-old Gabriel Hilliard of Plumville was traveling west on Route 85 when a vehicle driven by 39-year-old Nancyli Lopresti Woods of Marion Center attempted to make a left turn onto 85 east. Hilliard hit the brakes and slid into Lopresti Woods’ vehicle.

Hilliard was transported to Armstrong Memorial Hospital by Citizens Ambulance for treatment of minor injuries. Lopresti Woods was uninjured. Both were wearing their seatbelt at the time of the accident.

BILL AIMED AT NURSING SHORTAGE PASSES STATE SENATE, MOVES TO HOUSE

Hometown4 — Mon, 04 May 2026 09:48:45 +0000

The Pennsylvania Senate last week approved legislation aimed at addressing the state’s ongoing nursing shortage by expanding support for education and training programs.

The bill would create a new grant program to help accredited nursing schools increase capacity, hire additional faculty, and improve training infrastructure. Funding would be awarded based on factors like graduation rates, licensure exam success, and job placement outcomes for graduates.

Supporters say the goal is to increase the number of qualified nurses entering the workforce at a time when hospitals and long-term care facilities are struggling with staffing shortages. They argue that strengthening nursing programs now will help improve patient care and expand access to health services across the commonwealth in the coming years.

The legislation now heads to the House for consideration.

FIRST RESPONDERS DEAL WITH VEHICLE ACCIDENTS SUNDAY, INTO MONDAY

Hometown4 — Mon, 04 May 2026 09:46:57 +0000

Indiana County first responders dealt with two vehicle accidents yesterday.

The first was reported on Route 210 in South Mahoning Township at 2:14 p.m.. Plumville and Marion Center fire departments were sent out, along with citizens’ ambulance and state police from the Indiana barracks.

The second crash happened at 5:18 p.m. along Rich Hill Road in Cherryhill Township. Cherryhill fire fighters, EMS and state police responded. No details on either of these incidents have been released.

Emergency crews have been busy into today as well, with three calls for service in one hour.

The first was for a report of a vehicle accident on Route 22 East in West Wheatfield Township at 3:19 this morning. Armagh fire department was sent to the scene. The second call was at 3:36 for utility lines down for a location on Store Hill Road in Ernest Borough, with Creekside fire crews responding.

Finally, an automatic fire alarm activation was reported on Mountain View Drive

NANCY SMITH, 83

Hometown4 — Sat, 02 May 2026 15:16:22 +0000

Nancy Lee (Short) Smith, 83, of Indiana, passed away Wednesday, April 29, 2026, at Beacon Ridge in Indiana.

A daughter of the late John Short and Margaret E. Quick, she was born June 8, 1942, in Latrobe.

Nancy was a member of the Lighthouse Morning Star Ministries in Commodore. She thoroughly enjoyed being a homemaker – doing laundry, cleaning house and all the tasks that go along with running a home.

She is survived by a daughter, Sandra Lee Smith, of Indiana; siblings: Marie Cochran, of Florida; Linda Slesman, of Donegal; Betty Murphy, of Blairsville; Roberta Ross, of Blairsville; George Murphy, of Homer City; Robert Murphy, of Homer City; Kathy Crawford, of Chambersville; and numerous nieces and nephews.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Alfred A. Smith; a brother, Thomas Murphy and a sister, Darleen Murphy.

Friends and family will be received from 11 a.m. until the time of the funeral service at 1 p.m. Tuesday, May 5, 2026, at Robinson-Lytle-Shoemaker Funeral Home, 36 N 7^th Street, Indiana, with Pastor John Manon officiating. Interment will be in Oakland Cemetery.

To view the online obituary, sign the guest registry or send condolences, please visit

www.shoemakerfamilyservices.com

ALFRED DERWART, 81

Hometown4 — Sat, 02 May 2026 15:13:37 +0000

Alfred Rees Derwart, 81, of Indiana, passed away Wednesday, Feb. 18, 2026, at Beacon Ridge in Indiana.

A son of August Michael Derwart, Jr. and Margaret (Rees) Derwart, Rees was born Aug. 14, 1944, in Indiana.

He was a 1962 graduate of Indiana High School, later going on to earn his Bachelor of Arts from Dickinson College in 1966, a Master of Science in Library Science from Case Western Reserve University in 1967 and a Juris Doctor from New York University School of Law in 1980. During his career, Rees was a librarian at Deere & Co. in Moline, IL and Berkley Divinity School in New Haven, CT; he practiced law in Harrisburg, Indiana and New York City.

Rees was a board member of the Indiana Free Library, a member of the Indiana Rotary Club, and the Shakespeare Club of Indiana County. He had also served on the advisory board of the Indiana County Chapter of the American Red Cross and the advisory council of the Indiana County Technology Center.

Rees was preceded in death by his parents, his sister, Margaret Ann (Mrs. Frederick) Van Dyke; his nieces, Gail Ann Van Dyke and Gretchen Lynn Van Dyke; and his four-legged companions, Ceasar, Scruffy and Appy.

A Celebration of Life will be held Thursday, May 14, 2026, at 11:30 a.m. at Calvary Presbyterian Church, 695 School St., Indiana, with the Rev. David Hanna, Pastor Kathy Mihoerck and Pastor William Geiger officiating. Robinson-Lytle-Shoemaker Funeral Home, 36 N 7^th Street, Indiana has been entrusted with the arrangements.

If desired, memorial contributions may be made to the Indiana County Humane Society, 191 Airport Road, Indiana, PA 15701 or to a charity of one’s choosing.

To view the online obituary, sign the guest registry or send condolences, please visit

www.shoemakerfamilyservices.com

CURVE SPLIT DOUBLEHEADER WITH RICHMOND

Hometown4 — Sat, 02 May 2026 09:18:58 +0000

The Altoona Curve split a doubleheader with Richmond Friday night at Peoples Natural Gas Field.

Altoona rallied to win game one 5-4, scoring all five runs in the sixth inning. Shawn Ross highlighted the comeback with a two-run homer, and Omar Alfonzo followed with a bases-clearing double to give the Curve the lead. Emmanuel Chapman closed it out for the save.

Game two was a different story, as Richmond jumped out early and rolled to a 10-0 win. The Flying Squirrels scored five runs in the first inning and never looked back.

The Curve are back in action this afternoon, continuing the series at 4 o’clock.

PIRATES DEFEAT REDS 9-1

Hometown4 — Sat, 02 May 2026 09:18:06 +0000

The Pirates will look to build on a big win as they continue their series with the Reds today in Pittsburgh.

Greg Brown has the recap.

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The win hands the Reds just their fifth loss in their last 16 games.

The two teams meet again this afternoon, with first pitch set for 4:05 p.m. at PNC Park.

STEELERS DECLINE FIFTH-YEAR OPTION ON JONES

Hometown4 — Sat, 02 May 2026 09:15:37 +0000

The Steelers are declining the fifth-year option on offensive tackle Broderick Jones.

The move means Pittsburgh won’t lock in Jones for the 2027 season at a cost of just over 19 million dollars. It also comes as Jones deals with a neck injury that could impact his availability for training camp.

With the decision, the Steelers have now declined fifth-year options on five straight first-round picks. The last player to have his option picked up by the team was T.J. Watt.

The move doesn’t necessarily mean Jones won’t return long-term, but it does add another question mark as the team continues shaping its future roster.

PENNSYLVANIA TO RECEIVE MAJOR FINANCIAL BOOST FROM OPIOID SETTLEMENT

Hometown4 — Sat, 02 May 2026 09:14:54 +0000

Pennsylvania will receive a major financial boost as part of a nationwide opioid settlement now in effect.

Attorney General Dave Sunday announced a $7.4 billion agreement with Purdue Pharma and the Sackler family, resolving years of litigation over their role in the opioid crisis.

Under the deal, Pennsylvania is expected to receive more than 200 million dollars over the next 15 years, with much of the funding distributed in the first few years.

Officials say the money will go toward addiction treatment, prevention, and recovery efforts, as well as support for victims.

The settlement also permanently bars the Sackler family from selling opioids in the United States and requires the release of millions of internal company documents.

State officials say Pennsylvania has now secured more than 2 billion dollars total through opioid-related settlements.

CENTER TOWNSHIP BURN BAN LIFTED

Hometown4 — Sat, 02 May 2026 09:13:56 +0000

The Center Township Supervisors have announced that the burn ban that was in effect has been lifted.

The ban was placed in April after some dry conditions had caused many brushfires in our area. As of Friday afternoon, that ban has been lifted. Supervisors ask that you be courteous to your neighbors and only burn approved items, such as paper, cardboard, and wood.

Anyone with questions or concerns can call the township office at 724-479-2688.

INDIANA COUNTY STUDENTS RECOGNIZED FOR STANDOUT RESEARCH

Hometown4 — Sat, 02 May 2026 09:13:16 +0000

Several Indiana County students at Indiana University of Pennsylvania are being recognized for standout research efforts.

University officials say four local students were honored during the annual Scholars Forum Awards Brunch held April 22nd on campus, part of IUP’s Research Appreciation Week.

Among the honorees, Jenna Reese Conrad received a Women in STEM award for her research analyzing dinosaur teeth, while Ryan Little earned a top business award for his work on how economic forces impact financial markets. Officials note Little is graduating with a perfect grade point average.

Graduate student Dalia Reda SeifAllah was also recognized with a dean’s award for research focused on academic writing in the digital age and cultural studies.

In total, 26 awards were presented, with more than 130 IUP students and dozens of local high school students participating in this year’s Scholars Forum, showcasing research from across all areas of study.

PENNDOT ANNOUNCES NIGHT WORK ON PEDESTRIAN BRIDGE

Hometown4 — Sat, 02 May 2026 09:12:32 +0000

PennDOT is alerting drivers to overnight lane restrictions on Route 22 as work continues on the Hoodlebug Trail pedestrian bridge project.

From May 4th through May 8th, a single lane restriction will be in place between Resort Drive and the Route 119 interchange in Burrell Township. Crews will be working overnight from 10 p.m. to 6 a.m., removing equipment known as overhang jacks from the bridge.

Drivers should expect slowdowns in the area and are being asked to use caution through the work zone. PennDOT says all work will depend on the weather.

The nearly 4-point-7 million dollar project is being handled by Merlo Incorporated and is expected to wrap up by mid-June. Travelers can check 511PA for the latest road conditions.

STRUCTURE FIRE REPORTED FRIDAY AFTERNOON

Hometown4 — Sat, 02 May 2026 09:11:15 +0000

First responders had a relatively slow day on Friday, with the exception of a structure fire.

That fire was reported just after 3 pm for a location on Hillman Road in Banks Township. Big Run and Rossiter fire departments went to the scene, along with team 900 and the Punxsutawney EMS. No details on that incident have been made available at this time.

Other incidents yesterday included a gas leak on Oriole Drive in White Township. Indiana fire association was sent to the scene.

NEW WELCOME CENTER HOLDS RIBBON CUTTING

Hometown4 — Sat, 02 May 2026 09:00:15 +0000

The new Welcome Center of Indiana County held a ribbon cutting ceremony yesterday.

The center is located in the former First Commonwealth Bank’s downtown branch at the intersection of 6^th and Philadelphia Streets that was donated to the county by the financial institution. It houses the offices of the Indiana County Chamber of Commerce, Downtown Indiana and the Indiana County Tourist Bureau, who have spent the last few months moving into the new office space.

President of the Chamber of Commerce Mark Hilliard recapped the start of the entire idea during his remarks.

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The building also serves as the new permanent home of the Chamber Business Hall of Fame, including a new touch-screen system to access the stories of all the inductees to the hall. It also features a new souvenir shop inside the bank vault.

You can find video of the cutting on our facebook page.

JUDITH ASHBAUGH, 87

Hometown4 — Fri, 01 May 2026 15:06:38 +0000

Judith Dean (Hewitt) Ashbaugh of Indiana, 87, went home to be with the Lord on May 1, 2026.

Judy was born on July 24, 1938, in Bolivar, PA, to James Clifford and Gladys Melrose (St.Clair) Hewitt.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her step-father Meredith Green, brother John Richard Green, sister-in-law Loretta Green, nephew Brian Green, and nieces Barbara and Rayna Brett.

She is survived by her husband of 66 years James H. Ashbaugh; daughters Janet (Joseph) Benamati, and Jill (Dennis) Earman; grandchildren Luke (Elise) Piper, Andrew Piper, Sarah Benamati (Alexandria Fazzolari), and Jordan Earman; great-granddaughters Chloe and Elodie Piper; sister Donna Hill; sister-in-law Margie Green; and many nieces and nephews.

Judy graduated from Laurel Valley High School in 1956. She was a certified registered nurse practitioner. She worked for Indiana Hospital, Monterey Hospital (CA), Dr. John Mills, and Family Health Council over the course of her 44-year career in nursing. She earned her RN from Indiana Hospital School of Nursing (1959); received certification from the Ohio Family Planning Training Center as a Family Planning Nurse Practitioner (1978); and attained National Certification as a Women’s Health Care Nurse Practitioner (1982).

Judy was a member of the Association of Women’s Health, Obstetric, and Neonatal Nurses, National Association of Nurse Practitioners in Reproductive Health, and Indiana Hospital Nurses Alumnae Association. She served as a Stephen Minister, sunday school superintendent, and on various committees at Grace Church in Indiana, where she was an active member since 1962.

Visitation will be at the Rairigh-Bence Funeral Home from 2-4 pm on Sunday, May 3, 2026. A memorial service will be held at Grace Church at 11 am on Monday, May 4, 2026. In lieu of flowers, please consider a memorial gift to Grace Church or the Chevy Chase Community Center. Judy’s family wishes to thank Dr. Bernard Coppolo, 365 Hospice, and Lynn Haven Personal Care Home for their compassionate care.

Online condolences may be made by visiting: rbfh.net .

JOSEPH MILNER, 69

Hometown4 — Fri, 01 May 2026 13:21:32 +0000

Joseph Paul Milner, 69, of Indiana, died Tuesday, April 28, 2026 at his home. Born on November 7, 1956 in Indiana, he was the son of the late Kenneth and Dolores (Dobrosky) Milner.

Joe enjoyed spending time hunting, fishing, and golfing. He found joy cooking and baking for those he loved. Joe also loved listening and jamming out to good tunes. Above all, he treasured time spent with his daughters.

He retired from REA Energy after almost four decades of service where he enjoyed working with his brothers as a lineman. He was a former member of the Elks, Moose, Eagles, and National Rifle Association.

Joe is survived by his two daughters: Holly (David) Husted and Cherise Milner. He will be missed by his grandchildren: Marshel Joseph and Landon Brooks Husted; and his brothers: Michael (Georganne) Milner, Mark (Vicki) Milner, Jim Milner, and Keith Milner; and his sisters: Suzie Lakatosh and Maliya (Kevin) Wolford; and numerous nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother: Kenny Milner; two sisters: Marcia Pierce, and Patricia Ann (Milner) Nagg; his brother-in-law: George Mihoerck; and his nephew: Michael McCoppin.

In lieu for flowers memorial contributions can be made to the American Cancer Society at: P.O. Box 6704 Hagerstown, MD 21741

Visitation will be held from 6:00 until 8:00 on Tuesday, May 5, 2026 at the Rairigh-Bence Funeral Home & Crematory (965 Philadelphia St.)

Online condolences may be made by visiting: rbfh.net .

EVELYN FISTER, 82

Hometown4 — Fri, 01 May 2026 12:55:55 +0000

Evelyn (Flanjack) Fister, 82 of Indiana, died Wednesday, April 29, 2026 at Beacon Ridge
Nursing Home, Indiana. Born in Dixonville, October 29, 1943, she was a daughter of the
late Nicholas Flanjack and Mary (Berezansky) Flanjack. She was the wife of Alphonse B.
Fister, whom she married December 27, 1980.

A graduate of Indiana High School, Evelyn worked as a waitress at the Holiday Inn in
Indiana during the 1970s and 80s. Prior to that she lived in Washington, D.C. where she
was the manager at the Coffee Shop at the Shoreham Hotel.

Evelyn enjoyed beach vacations with her husband, Al, and her two sisters, Helen and
Ann. She also loved car rides, whether it was a short trip around town or a longer
journey to North Carolina to visit her niece and great niece. No matter the destination,
Evelyn made every trip special with her quick wit and her gift for storytelling; she was
always ready with a story that brought smiles and laughter to those around her. She also
found joy in simple pleasures such as sewing, ironing and cold Pepsi, which was never
far from her side. Evelyn will be remembered for her joyful spirit, her love of family, and
the stories that will continue to be shared in her memory.

She was a member of St. Bernard of Clairvaux Church in Indiana and was an avid
supporter of the St. Vincent de Paul Society.

In addition to her husband, Al, Evelyn is remembered by her brother, George Flanjack (Mary), Safety Harbor, FL and by the following nieces and nephews: Kimberly Lezanic (Kevin) Dodds, Indiana; Mark Lezanic, Pompano Beach, FL; Monica Flanjack (Ryan) Foster, Hedgesville, WV, George Emerson Flanjack, Berkley Springs, WV and James (Teresa) Huff, McMurray, PA. As well as Al’s children, Al (Elizabeth) Fister Jr, Glen Burnie, MD and Kim (Tom) Fuehrer, Clymer, PA and Al’s brother’s and sister’s, Stephen (Alice) Fister, Harrisburg, PA, Jonathan (Ann Peterson) Fister, Hudson, FL, Pricilla (David) Earnhart, Franklin, PA, Shirley Ann Sisic, Madison, TN.
She was preceded in death by her parents and by the following siblings: Mary (Flanjack) Wahna, Joseph Flanjack, Nicholas Flanjack, Ann (Flanjack) Lezanic and Helen (Flanjack) Huff.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Thursday, May 7th at 10:00 AM at St. Bernard of Clairvaux Church, Indiana. A visitation will be held prior to the Mass beginning at 9 AM in the church Narthrax. Celebrant, Rev. Jonathan Urlick, OFM, Cap. Inurnment will be held at St. Bernard Cemetery.
Memorial donations may be made to: St. Jude Children’s Hospital or to the St. Vincent de Paul Society.
Service arrangements are with Rairigh-Bence Funeral Home & Crematory where online condolences may be made by visiting: rbfh.net .

VIRGINIA CARRUTHERS, 86

Hometown4 — Wed, 29 Apr 2026 15:23:28 +0000

Virginia Lea “Ginny” Carruthers (Myers), beloved mother, grandmother, and devoted member of her community, passed away peacefully on April 22, 2026, in Indiana, PA, at the age of 86.

She was born on February 17, 1940, in Huntingdon, PA, was raised in Mapleton Depot, and was a lifelong resident of Pennsylvania. Virginia made her home in Homer City, where she dedicated her time to her family and community.

A cherished homemaker, she also worked for several years at a coal gasification plant. She was a passionate volunteer, contributing her time to the Hoodlebug Festival, the Homer City Fire Department Ladies Auxiliary, and Eastern Star.

A faithful member of the Homer City United Presbyterian Church. Ginny, touched many lives while serving on various committees and as a deacon.

She took joy in painting ceramics, cooking, and reading, often sharing her family recipes.

Ginny is survived by her two sons, Brett Carruthers and his wife, Lisa, of Niagara Falls, NY, and Brad Carruthers of Centreville, VA, as well as her beloved grandchildren, Alexander, Nicholas, Brianna, and Hannah, and her great-granddaughter, Mikayla. She is also survived by sister-in-law Theo (late Marty) Marietta.

She was preceded in death by her husband, James Carruthers, and her parents, J. Theodore and Elizabeth Myers.

Friends will be received on Friday, May 1, 2026, from 2:00 PM to 6:00 PM at Bowser Funeral Home and Cremation Services, Inc., Homer City. A Funeral Service will be held on Saturday, May 2, 2026, at 10:00 AM at the Homer City United Presbyterian Church. Interment to follow in the Greenwood Cemetery, Indiana.

Virginia will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in her name to the Homer City Fire Department, 25 West Church Street, Homer City, PA 15748

ROBERT PEAK JR., 71

Hometown4 — Tue, 28 Apr 2026 14:55:49 +0000

Robert “Bob” Lee Peak, Jr., 71, of Indiana, passed away surrounded by his loving family on Friday, April 24, 2026. Best known as “GrandBob”, by his beloved Kailena, the light of his life and all who knew and loved him.

Bob was born in Indiana on February 13, 1955, to the late Robert Lee Peak, Sr., and Betty Jane (Rhoades) Peak.

He graduated from Indiana High School in 1973 and spent his career with First Commonwealth Bank retiring in December of 2020 as a Sr. Program Analyst. In his free time, he enjoyed hunting, fishing, and his beagles, but mostly spending time with his granddaughter Kailena.

Surviving Bob is his wife Deborah Peak, whom he married on September 6, 1980, his children Jason Peak and Justin (Kristine) Peak, both of Indiana, his granddaughter Kailena Peak, sister Gloria Kessler, brother Richard Peak, brother John Rhoades, mother-in-law Margaret Rhoades, and brothers-in-law James, John, Nick, and Tony Rhoades, as well as nieces and nephews: Sequoiah, Dalton, Jessie, Dylan, Hailey, Payton, Eythan, Quinn, Walker, Jeffrey, and Jonathan.

In addition to his parents, Bob was preceded in death by a brother David Peak, father-in-law James V Rhoades, sister-in-law Sherry Kowchuck, and nephew Matthew Kowchuck.

At Bob’s family’s request, services are private and have been entrusted to the care of the Donahue Tylinski Funeral Home, Inc., (formerly Bowser Minich).

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to a Beagle rescue in memory of Bob.

VICTOR STELMA, 90

Hometown4 — Tue, 28 Apr 2026 14:54:25 +0000

Victor Andrew Stelma, 90, of Indiana, passed away on Sunday, April 26, 2026. He was born on September 3, 1935, in Graceton, to the late Victor M. and Mary (Kotzur) Stelma.

After graduating from Laura Lamar High School, Vic worked for Halliburton, retiring in 1993 as an assistant district manager. He was an active member of St. Bernard of Clairvaux Parish where he served as an usher, Eucharistic Minister, and a 4th degree Knights of Columbus. He was also active in the Catholic men’s bowling league. He enjoyed reading, gardening, traveling and making his own wine.

Surviving Vic are his children, Rose Mary Stelma of NC, Michele (Bill) Carey of NY, Barbara (Rob) Frasher of VA, and Vicki Stelma of Indiana, 13 grandchildren, 11 great-grandchildren, and numerous nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents, Victor was preceded in death by his wife Eleanor Josephine Stelma, a grandson David Frasher, brothers Michael, George, and Eugene Stelma, as well as a son-in-law Charles Manges.

Friends will be received on Thursday, April 30, 2026, in the Donahue Tylinski Funeral Home, Inc., (formerly Bowser Minich), from 4-7 PM. Additional visitation will be held in the Narthex of St. Bernard of Clairvaux on Friday, May 1, 2026, from 9:00 AM until the time of Mass of Christian Burial at 10:00 AM with Father Richard N. Owens, OFM, Cap., as Celebrant. Entombment will follow in St. Bernard Cemetery Mausoleum.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Food for the Poor via www.foodforthepoor.org, the Knights of Columbus council #1481, or to St. Bernard of Clairvaux Parish, 200 Clairvaux Drive, Indiana PA, 15701.

To send an online condolence to the family, please visit www.donahuetylinski.com.

HAROLD BETTS, 60

Hometown4 — Mon, 27 Apr 2026 12:44:40 +0000

SFC Harold LeRoy Betts, Retired, age 60, of Grayson, Kentucky, went home to be with the Lord on April 21, 2026.

Harold was born on January 18, 1966, in Indiana, Pennsylvania. He was the son of the late LeRoy Betts Jr. and the beloved son of Ruth Betts King and John King Sr., both of Indiana, PA.

He attended Penns Manor High School, where he enjoyed playing football. Harold proudly wore jersey number 32 in honor of his favorite player, Franco Harris of the Pittsburgh Steelers. He once shared a flight with Franco Harris but, out of respect for his privacy, chose not to ask for an autograph—something few others would have done.

In July of 1985, Harold enlisted in the United States Army and later served with the Kentucky National Guard. Most of his military career was spent in Kentucky, where he worked as a tank mechanic and earned the nickname “Mr. Fix-It” for his mechanical skill and dependability. During his time in Kentucky, he met the love of his life, Brenda. They were married on June 26, 1992.

After being honorably discharged from military service in May 2016, Harold continued his career as a mechanic, working for various gas well companies. His work often required weeks away from home, but he did so willingly to provide well for his family. He was a hardworking and devoted husband and father.

In his free time, Harold loved hunting, fishing, watching the Pittsburgh Steelers, and spending time with his cherished daughter, Bella. He loved teaching others his hunting and fishing “wisdom”.

At the time of his passing, Harold was employed as a mechanic with Nextier Completion Solutions in Black Lick, Pennsylvania.

He is survived by his parents, Ruth Betts King and John King Sr. of Indiana, PA; his wife of 33 years, Brenda Betts of Grayson, KY; daughters Bella of Grayson, KY, and Kalen of Franklin Furnace, OH; sons Dillion of Kingston, TN, Lelen of Shoals, WV, and Ronnie of Franklin Furnace, OH.

He is also survived by his sisters, Vickie Vennard of Clymer, PA; Tammy Stahlman (Nick) of Brookville, PA; and Melissa Custer (Harry) of Indiana, PA. Step-sisters include Lucinda Carr (Bruce) of Oakmont, PA, and Audrey “Diane” Swartz (Charlie) of Homer City, PA. Step-brothers include John “Buster” King Jr. (Tammy), Doug King (Karen), both of Indiana, PA; William King of Shelocta, PA; and Martin King (Kristin) of Manheim, PA.

Harold was the proud grandfather of twenty-six grandchildren and is also survived by numerous nieces and nephews.

In addition to his father, Harold was preceded in death by his grandparents Warren “Jay” and Mildred Gromley, LeRoy Sr. and Anna Mae Betts, as well as numerous aunts and uncles.

Harold will be remembered for his strong work ethic, kind heart, unwavering devotion to family, and his willingness to help anyone in need.

Friends will be received on, Tuesday from 1:00-3:00 PM and 5:00-7:00 PM, and also on Wednesday from 10:00 AM until the time of service at 11:00 AM at the John A. Lefdahl Funeral Home, 898 old Route 119 North, Indiana, PA 15701 with Pastor Melissa L. Custer, officiating. military honors, provided by Indiana VFW Post 1989.

To share a memory or leave an online condolence, visit www.lefdahlfuneralhome.com

DENISE PARATTO, 63

Hometown4 — Mon, 27 Apr 2026 12:38:34 +0000

Denise Alexander Paratto, Homer City, PA, born on September 27, 1963, Saitama Ken, Japan, entered the loving arms of her heavenly Father on April 21, 2026, after a courageous and faith filled battle with Leiomyosarcoma.

She was a beloved wife, mother, daughter, sister, sister-in-law, aunt, nurse and friend. She faced her illness with extraordinary strength and grace, never complaining and trusting in the Lord deeply.

Through her journey she still cared for others with a generous heart despite her own health challenges. Denise loved life fully, traveling with her husband, Al, and dear friends, weaving baskets for 32 years and sharing dinners with the ones she loved. Her quick wit and beautiful smile warmed the hearts of children, playing with them and swimming in her pool.

Her life was a testament to faith and compassion, having worked as a Registered Nurse at IRMC for 34 years, she touched countless lives. She was her mother’s best friend. To Al and her family, she was a source of love beyond measure.

Denise graduated in 1981 from Homer Center High School and ICTC as an LPN in1983. She went on to become a Registered Nurse attending Citizens General Hospital School of Nursing graduating in 1992.

She is survived by her husband, Alan Paratto; her mother, Elizabeth Annette Alexander; her son, Brandon; her stepchildren, Anthony and Angela; and her three grandchildren. She is also survived by her siblings, Roseanna Shipley (Jack), Mary Fulmer (Jerry), Connie Chimino (Mark), Robert W. Alexander Jr, Diann Overman (Jerry) and Stephen Alexander (Lisa). She adored and loved her numerous nieces and nephews.

She has joined her beloved father, Robert W. Alexander Sr. and mother-in-law, Helen Paratto, whom she both loved dearly, in heaven.

Family and friends are invited to visitation on April 29th, from 2-8 PM at Bowser Funeral Home and Cremation Services, Inc., Homer City. At 1:30 PM, Knights of Columbus 4th Degree will lead the rosary, and at 6:00 PM, Indiana County Nurse Honor Guard will recognize Denise for her contribution to the nursing profession.

A Blessing Service will be held on Thursday, April 30th at 9:30 AM at the funeral home followed by a Funeral Mass at 10:00 AM at Our Lady of the Assumption parish, Coral site. Interment in church cemetery will follow.

At Denise’s request, in lieu of flowers and in her memory, donations can be made to www.pittsburghcuresarcoma.org.

BONNIE ALEXANDER, 69

Hometown4 — Mon, 27 Apr 2026 12:15:26 +0000

Bonnie J. Alexander Herdman, 69, of Derry passed away suddenly on Thursday April 23, 2026. She was born September 27, 1956 in Indiana a daughter of the late Leroy and Ann Perko Alexander.
Bonnie had a heart of gold being loving and kind to all and always putting everyone else first. She always enjoyed giving to others.
She is survived by her loving husband George H. Herdman, children; Anna, Jenny, Karen and Carrie Jo, siblings; Debbie, Greg and Fran, eight grandchildren, several nieces and nephews.
Friends will be received Monday April 27, 2026 from 4-7 pm in the McCabe Funeral Home, 300 W. Third Avenue, Derry. Private interment will be made in the Coles Cemetery, Derry.
Online condolences may be made to www.mccabefuneralhomespa.com.

WAVE RYDER SWEET SHOPPE IN HOMER CITY OFFICIALLY CLOSED

Hometown4 — Thu, 23 Apr 2026 17:24:32 +0000

Wave Ryder Sweet Shoppe in downtown Homer City has officially closed.

It was posted on their Facebook page Thursday afternoon that after 3.5 years of business, today would be their last day in operation. This comes after an announcement earlier this month, stating that they would be closing due to parking issues related to the influx of drivers through town, which is a product of the gas plant and data center project by Homer City Redevelopment.

In the announcement, owner Gilbert Woodley thanked the community for it’s support and the opportunities it gave them to give back.

LINDA NIPPS, 79

Hometown4 — Thu, 23 Apr 2026 12:56:04 +0000

Linda Ann (Jobe) Nipps, 79 of Indiana, passed away peacefully Thursday, April 16, 2026 at Lynn

Haven Personal Care Home, Black Lick. Born in Indiana, July 23, 1946, she was the daughter of

the late Robert C. Jobe and Lois Lee (Raybould) Jobe.

She was a graduate of Laura Lamar Joint Junior Senior High School. After receiving her

Bachelor’s degree from IUP, Linda worked for Indiana County Children and Youth Services. She

was a dedicated County Caseworker for over 23 years until she retired in 2024.

She enjoyed working outside in her flower gardens and had a special place in her heart for

animals, especially cats. She was a loving and caring mother and grandmother.

Linda is sadly remembered by her daughter Tamar Farmer, husband Will and their son River, of

Greensburg. She is also survived by her half-sister, Nancy Kensinger of Indiana, and numerous

nieces.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her brother, Robert Jobe, Jr.

In accordance with her wishes, cremation has taken place with Evergreen Cremations in Indiana

where online condolences may be made by visiting: evergreencremations.net.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to SNIPP, 2559 Warren Rd., Indiana, PA 15701. ,

JULIE ARONE, 51

Hometown4 — Thu, 23 Apr 2026 12:51:15 +0000

Julie Ann Arone (Usko), born on October 31, 1975, in Indiana, Pennsylvania, passed away on April 20, 2026, in Shadyside, Pennsylvania, surrounded by her loving family.

A devoted wife to her husband, Mike Arone, and a caring mother to her children, Makenzie Shields, Aidan Arone, and Isabella Arone. Julie touched the lives of many through her compassionate work as a veterinary technician at Indian Springs Veterinary Hospital. She was a cherished daughter of Josie and Bill Usko, and a dear sister to Michael Usko.

Julie was predeceased by her beloved family members: Orlando Martini, Maria Martini, Peggy Usko, Frank Usko, Alice Ramsey, Paul Ramsey, Mary Arone, Frank Arone, Bob Usko, Lori Usko, and Reno Martini, along with others who will forever hold a special place in her family’s hearts.

Friends and family are invited to celebrate her life during visitation on April 24 from 2 to 8 PM, at Bowser Funeral Home and Cremation Services, Inc., Homer City. A Blessing Service will be held Saturday at 9:30 AM at the funeral home followed by a Funeral Mass at 10 AM at Our Lady of the Assumption Parish, Coral site. Interment in church cemetery.

Julie’s kindness, warmth, and spirited love for her family and animals will be deeply missed. She never met an animal that she didn’t love and treat with compassion. In lieu of flowers, Julie’s family and Indian Springs Veterinary Clinic are setting up the “Julie Arone Guardian Angel Fund” for pets in need. If you would like to make a donation please drop it off at the clinic (1540 Indian Springs Road, Indiana Pa 15701). There will also be envelopes at the funeral home.

Arrangements will be handled by the Bowser Funeral Home and Cremation Services, Inc. in Homer City

PENNSYLVANIA COAL ALLIANCE BACKS KEY-CON AGREEMENT

Hometown4 — Wed, 22 Apr 2026 19:05:38 +0000

The Pennsylvania Coal Alliance is backing an agreement that could extend the life of two major power plants in the region.

The group today voiced support for a consent decree filed by the Department of Environmental Protection involving the Keystone and Conemaugh generating stations in Indiana County. Coal Alliance officials say the facilities play a key role in providing reliable electricity and supporting local jobs, with more than a thousand workers tied directly to the plants and thousands more in related industries.

They’re now urging state and federal leaders to adopt policies that would allow the plants to remain open longer, potentially through 2034.

WHITE TOWNSHIP SUPERVISORS APPROVE BID FOR FUEL

Hometown4 — Wed, 22 Apr 2026 18:59:22 +0000

At their meeting Wednesday afternoon, the White Township Supervisors approved a bid for fuel.

The bid was from Glassmere Fuel of Curtisville at a differential rate of .156. Township Manager Chris Anderson explained this figure and what it means for the price of fuel.

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The bid was tabled for review at their last meeting, as the differential was higher than it has been in previous years. But Anderson said that their fuel supplies were getting low, so the Supervisors were inclined to accept it.

The next meeting of the supervisors will be held on May 13^th at 1 p.m. at the White Township offices.

DELROSE JONES, 97

Hometown4 — Wed, 22 Apr 2026 12:18:00 +0000

Delrose Marie Jones, age 97, passed away peacefully at Maple Valley Personal Care Home in Indiana, PA on Monday, April 20, 2026, surrounded by her family.

Delrose was born on August 10, 1928 to her parents Herman Clement Ager and Evelyn (Ragley) Ager in Nicktown, PA. She attended grade school at St. Nicholas School, and she graduated in 1946 from Spangler High School. Delrose then sought employment at Federal Laboratories in Tunnelton in order to earn money for nursing school. She caught the train daily at the Indiana Train Station, and worked in Tunnelton as a “bomb girl” for America’s military effort – her job was to insert firing pins into grenades on an assembly line. Delrose then attended and graduated from Indiana Hospital School of Nursing in 1949. She worked as a nurse at the Indiana Hospital from 1949 until April 28, 1951, when she married her husband, Eugene Harvey Jones. She then went on to raise her five children while also volunteering with The American Red Cross Disaster Team and Red Cross Blood Mobiles, and as a School Nurse and instructor at the Indiana Hospital’s Candy Striper program. Delrose was a member of St Thomas More University Parish and the VFW, and she was an Indiana Hospital Auxiliary Member.

Delrose was a supporting and loving wife to her husband of 51 years, Eugene, and a nurturing mother that taught her five children to think for themselves. She was a generous and welcoming hostess, and she loved opening her home to family and friends – you were always greeted with a warm meal and dessert if you stopped over to her house. A longtime member of St Thomas More University Parish, Delrose’s strong faith carried her through her daily life, and she shared that faith with others by her example. She cared strongly for and protected the weak and marginalized, she was generous with her time in volunteering and helping others in need, and she consistently acted with care, compassion, and a sense of justice. Delrose was patient, wise, dependable, and a life-long mentor for her family – spending time with her grandchildren was her biggest love. Her home remained the family gathering place for decades, whether it be for holidays, weekend sleepovers, or impromptu visits when her grandkids needed advice or just wanted to hear her laugh. Delrose’s witty sense of humor endeared her to family and friends alike, and you could always depend on her for a laugh when you needed it most. Delrose also enjoyed gardening, cooking, home improvement projects, and following the Pittsburgh Pirates and Steelers.

Delrose was preceded in death by her beloved husband of 51 years, Eugene H. Jones, her son Marvin E. Jones, her son-in-law Mark R. Moore, and her infant great-grandson Nathan Jones. She was the last surviving of her six siblings and their spouses: Sr. Mary Margaret Berchmans; Clem (Rita) Ager; Clair (Delores) Ager; Ruth (Mike) Gomish; Leona (Paul) Ambrosko; and Stanton (Martha) Ager.

Delrose is survived by her loving children: Susan Moore, Ellwood City, PA; Bonnie (Richard) Crisp, Fairhope, AL; Donna Jones, Home, PA; and Cathy (John) Pettina, Indiana, PA.

She is also survived by her 12 grandchildren: William (Lynda) Jones, Pinedale, WY; Jeremy Jones, Tampa, FL; Katie Jones, Tampa, FL; Stacey (Greg) Krugh, Ellwood City, PA; Michael (April) Moore, Mars, PA; David (Megan) Moore, Ellwood City, PA; MacAdam (Bethany) Crisp, Highland Village, TX; Douglas (Betsy) Crisp, Foley, AL; Kara Crisp, Portland, OR; Lisa (Bill) Thornton, Greensburg, PA; Jay (Tori) Pettina, Gulf Shores, AL; and Alex (Victoria) Pettina, Indiana, PA.

Additionally, Delrose is survived by her 15 great-grandchildren: Lauren and Natalie Jones, Samson Brend, Madison and Gracie Krugh, Evan and Emily Moore, Marco and Marina Moore, Logan and Will Crisp, Vaughn Crisp, Maxwell and Molly Thornton, and Jonah Pettina.

Delrose’s family would like to thank the dream teams at Maple Valley Personal Care Home, where she was treated like family, for all of their care, love, and respect over the years. They would also like to thank 365 Hospice Care for their exceptional guidance and support for the family. Delrose’s family would also like to make special mention of the following groups that were near and dear to Delrose’s heart: Table #1 at St Thomas More, and the community of women on McKnight Road that bonded to form a safe haven to raise their children together.

A private funeral service will be handled by the Rairigh-Bence Funeral Home & Crematory at a later date.

Memorial donations would be appreciated and can be made to the IRMC Auxiliary Scholarship Fund, which will benefit students volunteering at IRMC that plan to pursue a degree in the medical field:

IRMC Auxiliary Scholarship Fund

Attn: Administration

835 Hospital Drive

Indiana, PA 15701

Delrose Marie Jones, age 97, passed away peacefully at Maple Valley Personal Care Home in Indiana, PA on Monday, April 20, 2026, surrounded by her family.

Delrose is survived by her loving children: Susan Moore, Ellwood City, PA; Bonnie (Richard) Crisp, Fairhope, AL; Donna Jones, Home, PA; and Cathy (John) Pettina, Indiana, PA.

A private funeral service will be handled by the Rairigh-Bence Funeral Home & Crematory at a later date.

Memorial donations would be appreciated and can be made to the IRMC Auxiliary Scholarship Fund, which will benefit students volunteering at IRMC that plan to pursue a degree in the medical field:

IRMC Auxiliary Scholarship Fund

Attn: Administration

835 Hospital Drive

Indiana, PA 15701

INDIANA COUNTY COMMISSIONERS HONOR IUP WOMEN’S BASKETBALL TEAM

Hometown4 — Tue, 21 Apr 2026 22:45:10 +0000

The Indiana County Commissioners honored the IUP women’s basketball team with a proclamation Tuesday afternoon at the KCAC.

Team members and fans alike gathered to hear the reading of the proclamation honoring the achievements of last year’s team, who made it to the final round of the NCAA Division II National Championship for the first time in program history.

The team held an overall record of 31-4.

MARY ZANICH, 77

Hometown4 — Tue, 21 Apr 2026 14:44:21 +0000

Mary Lou Y. Zanich died on April 18, 2026 at St. Andrews Village. She was born on September 2, 1949 in McKeesport, Pa to Steven J. and Mary C. (Shamber) Zanich. She was predeceased by her sister, Stephanie. She was the granddaughter of Peter and Mary (Radesic) Zanich, immigrants from Croatia, and Habib and Ida Mae (Salem) Shamber, immigrants from Lebanon.

Mary Lou attended McKeeport Area Senior High School (1967) and received her B.S., M.S., and Ph.D. in Experimental Psychology from the University of Pittsburgh. She was the Emeritus Professor of Psychology at Indiana University of Pennsylvania, where she taught for 34 years. Mary Lou was Chair of the Psychology Department for 10 years and saw that as the best job she ever had. She enjoyed teaching (especially General Psychology and the History of Psychology), played an active service role, and worked with some of the finest people she ever knew. Additionally, she served for two years as Interim Dean of the College of Natural Sciences and Mathematics.

Mary Lou believed in the value of community service. Early in her career, she was active on the boards of the ARC Manor Drug and Alcohol Center (Kittanning, Pa.) and the Indiana (Pa.) Hospice. Following her retirement, she was especially active on the Board of Trustees of the Indiana Free Library where she served as President for seven years. She also served for more than a decade as the President of the IUP Chapter of The Association of Pennsylvania State College and University Retired Faculty and served on the board of I&A Residential Services Inc. At various points in her life, she enjoyed needle and hand crafts, playing golf (badly), and reading (aways). Of late, she especially enjoyed her Thursday morning coffee meeting with her similarly-retired psychology department cronies.

Mary Lou is survived by many cousins and by her good friend, Ellen O’Hara (Sanford, Fl.). Throughout her life, she was blessed to have many good friends including the best friend anyone could have, Jean Wilson, who shared both her friendship and her family. She would also note her “oldest” friend of more than 60 years, Chip Purcell, and her later-in-life “newest” friend, Louise Peterman. Lastly, she is survived by Flo Nellie, her cat who came to her late in life but who brought much companionship and comfort.

At her request, there will be no visitation or services. Inurnment will occur at a later date in Oak Ridge Cemetery, South Livonia, NY. Memorial Contributions, if desired, may be made to the Indiana Free Library, 845 Philadelphia St., Indiana Pa. 15701. or to the ICCAP Food Bank or Power Packs programs, 827 Water St. Indiana, Pa. 15701.

Though for the day: from Steinbeck’s Grapes of Wrath, Ch. 14: This is the beginning-from “I” to “We.”

Online condolences may be made by visiting: rbfh.net .

ROBERT SALSGIVER, 82

Hometown4 — Tue, 21 Apr 2026 13:21:23 +0000

Robert Eugene “Gene” Salsgiver, 82, of Glen Campbell, PA passed away peacefully at his home on Sunday, April 19, 2026.

The son of Charles S. and Geraldine M. (Wilson) Salsgiver, he was born on December 10, 1943 in Mentcle, PA the fourth of nine children.

Gene was a graduate of the Purchase Line High School Class of 1962. After high school, he traveled with his older brother Jerry to Wyoming. One of his favorite stories was how he hitchhiked back home encountering adventurous circumstances that included spending a night sleeping beneath a tree in Chicago.

Ready for more adventure, Gene moved to Washington, DC where he met his future wife Marsha E. Varner while working at Safeway. They were wed nearly 60 years ago on July 30, 1966. He had a successful career as assistant manager.

Deciding they wanted to raise their daughters closer to family, Gene and Marsha moved to Pennsylvania. Gene and his brother Jim opened a grocery store in Glen Campbell, marking the start of his entrepreneurial pursuits. Gene then worked in construction for Interstate Amesite. This experience provided him with skills and insight into the industry. Gene and his brother Dan launched S&S Paving & Construction, which they co-owned and operated for forty years. In addition to his work in construction, Gene owned and managed the Glenwood Convalescent Home and Salsgiver’s Personal Care Home in Glen Campbell.

Gene was deeply involved in his local community, belonging to the First Baptist Church of Glen Campbell, PA, and enjoying time with friends as a social member of the American Legion Post 435. He contributed his service to the community as a Glen Campbell Borough Council Member and a member of the Indiana County Redevelopment Authority.

A passionate golfer, Gene was a member of the Punxsutawney Country Club and took part in several golf leagues. Even when he wasn’t on the course, he enjoyed watching golf in his leisure time.

With a talent for gardening, Gene cultivated vegetables and flowers and loved sharing his homegrown produce with friends.

His four grandchildren meant a great deal to him; he cherished family gatherings and rarely missed their activities, sporting events, or graduations. Even the family’s dogs held Gene in high esteem.

Gene will be greatly missed by his wife Marsha, his two daughters: Rhonda Salsgiver Dahlkemper and husband Doug of Washington, D.C. and Melissa Salsgiver Byers and husband Bob of Manns Choice, PA; his four grandchildren: Audrey Grace Dahlkemper; Eliza Jane Dahlkemper; Ethan Robert Byers and Emma Elizabeth Byers; his siblings: Cheryl Vaneman of Orlando, FL and Ted Salsgiver of Glen Campbell, PA and his numerous nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents and his six siblings: Jim Salsgiver; Carol Ann Ritchey; Jerry Salsgiver; Danny Salsgiver; Diane Zahursky and Dorothy Straw.

At Gene’s request there is no visitation. Please join his family for a Celebration of Life on Saturday, May 16, 2026 at 11:00 a.m. at the First Baptist Church in Glen Campbell, PA to be followed by an open house at their residence.

In lieu of flowers, his family would appreciate donations to the Glen Campbell American Legion Post 435 at P.O. Box 197, Glen Campbell, PA 15742, to assist the legion’s charitable works within the hometown community Gene so loved..

Arrangements are with the assistance of the Rairigh Funeral Home, Ltd. in Hillsdale, PA. Please visit www.rairighfh.com to sign Gene’s guestbook and to share a condolence message.

ALEX TAMSULA, 69

Hometown4 — Tue, 21 Apr 2026 13:14:44 +0000

Alex James Tamsula, 69, of Blairsville, PA (Burrell Twp.) passed away on Tuesday, April 14, 2026, at home. The son of Alex A. Tamsula, and Pauline (Rohaly) Tamsula, he was born on December 12, 1956, in Homestead, PA.

Alex went to Blairsville High School, Class of 1974, and graduated from Indiana University in 1978 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in English and a minor in Political Science. He was a writer, gifted cartoon artist, film maker, film critic, religious scholar, and he loved to sing.

In the 1980s and 90s, Alex worked for 12 years as a computer assisted draftsman, after which he devoted his life to writing full time. Alex had a love for music and movies, but most of all he loved spending time with his father at the family farm in Blairsville.

He is survived by his brother Mark A. Tamsula (Barbara Rosner). He was preceded in death by his father Alex A. Tamsula and mother Pauline (Rohaly) Tamsula.

A memorial service will be held on May 9, from 1 to 3pm.

Shoemaker Funeral Home, Inc., 49 N. Walnut St., Blairsville has been entrusted with the arrangements.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to Catholic Charities USA in Alex’s name.

To view the online obituary, sign the guest registry or send condolences visit www.shoemakerfamilyservices.com.

TERRY SWINDELL, 79

Hometown4 — Tue, 21 Apr 2026 12:42:23 +0000

Terry Edward Swindell, 79, of New Alexandria, PA (Loyalhanna Twp.), passed away peacefully on Friday, April 17, 2026, at his home.

Born on July 4, 1946, in Bedford, Pennsylvania, Terry was the son of the late Matthew I. and Catherine (Gamble) Swindell.

Terry worked as a mechanical designer. He proudly served our country in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War, where he received the Purple Heart award and the Orange Heart award.

He was a member of the Pleasant Unity United Methodist Church, and he was a lifetime member of VFW, Post 33, Greensburg. In his spare time, he loved hunting and fishing.

He is survived by his devoted wife, Ruthie E. (Clawson) Swindell; children, Teresa D. Wentzel (David) of Greensburg and Matthew F. Swindell of Greensburg; and siblings, Sandra Menchio of Westmoreland City, Larry Swindell (Zeni) of Tucson, Arizona, and Catherine Weis of Greensburg.

Terry is preceded in death by his parents; sister, Thelma Kistner and brother, Kenneth Booth.

The family will receive friends on Saturday, April 25, 2026, from 10 to 11 AM at the Pleasant Unity United Methodist Church, 4685 Rt 981, Latrobe, PA. A memorial service will be held in the church at 11 AM with Pastor Jason Schweinberg and Reverend Larry Coltura officiating.

In lieu of flowers, the family is requesting donations to Wildlife Works, Inc, PO Box 113, Youngwood, PA.

To view the online obituary, sign the guest registry or send condolences visit www.shoemakerfamilyservices.com.

STATE POLICE SEARCHING FOR INDIANA AREA MAN

Hometown4 — Mon, 20 Apr 2026 14:07:47 +0000

UPDATE

State troopers are asking for the public’s help in finding a missing Indiana area man.

60-year-old Harold James Pearce was reported missing by a family member in Glen Campbell after he left their home on Glenwood Avenue on foot around 9 p.m. on April 16^th. He has not been seen since then. Pearce, who does not have a vehicle, is known to travel long distances on foot. His intended destination is unknown and Troopers do not suspect foul play.Pearce is described as a white, non-Hispanic male, six-feet two-inches tall, approximately 180 pounds with light brown, collar-length hair and blue eyes. He also has chipped front teeth. He was last seen wearing a neon yellow-colored beanie under a black baseball cap, a yellow t-shirt, a black jacket, blue jeans, and sneakers. He was also reported to be carrying a black duffel bag containing clothing.

Anyone with information concerning his whereabouts is asked to contact 911 or State Police Troop A at 724-357-1960.

IUP EARNS NATIONAL RECOGNITION FOR DOCOTRAL EDUCATION PROGRAMS

Hometown4 — Mon, 20 Apr 2026 09:08:52 +0000

Indiana University of Pennsylvania is earning national recognition for its graduate education programs.

The university announced that its doctoral programs in education have been included in U.S. News and World Report’s 2026 “Best Graduate Schools” rankings. IUP offers doctoral degrees in administration and leadership studies, as well as curriculum and instruction, both geared toward working professionals and educators looking to advance their careers. University officials say the rankings are based on several factors, including curriculum quality and program focus areas.

The recognition adds to a growing list of national honors for IUP, including recent rankings for its online programs and a designation highlighting strong student outcomes and accessibility.

IUP has now been included in U.S. News rankings for more than 25 years.

JURY SELECTION SCHEDULED FOR THREE CHARGED IN KIDNAPPING AND MURDER

Hometown4 — Mon, 20 Apr 2026 09:07:40 +0000

Indiana County’s courts have a busy schedule today, including holding jury selection for three people charged in a murder case.

24-year-old Isaac Buchkoski, 22-year-old Summer Settlemeyer and 23-year-old Thomas Alan Rivera, all of Johnstown, will go before President Judge Thomas Bianco this morning in connection with the murder of Hayden Gareffa.

Police say that on October 20^th of 2022, the three along with Desean Alvarez, Mia Catafano, Taylyn Edwards, Jesse Wadsworth and a person who was 14-years-old at the time went to the home of Gareffa’s grandmother on Route 403 to kidnap him. His body was found about two miles from the grandmother’s home in an area of tall weeds and brush along Oneida Mine Road in Brush Valley Township. An autopsy showed that Gareffa was stabbed multiple times.

Buchkoski, Settlemyer and Rivera are facing charges of criminal homicide, kidnapping to facilitate a felony, aggravated assault, kidnapping and conspiracy to each of those crimes.

FIRST RESPONDERS SENT TO VEHICLE ACCIDENT, AMONG OTHER CALLS, SUNDAY

Hometown4 — Mon, 20 Apr 2026 09:06:57 +0000

First responders dealt with many different calls yesterday, including one for a vehicle accident.

The call came in at 11:10 a.m. for a location on Rayne Church Road. Clymer Fire department was assisted by Citizens Ambulance and state police. No details on the accident have been released.

A “landing zone” call was reported just 17 minutes later on Barr Slope Road, also in Rayne Township, with Clymer crews responding once again.

There were also three calls for automatic fire alarms. The first was at 1:11 p.m. on 119 North in Rayne Township. The second was at 2:23 p.m. on Oakland Avenue in White Township, and the third was at 3:36 p.m. along Philadelphia Street in Indiana Borough.

DONALD HENDRICKS JR., 60

Hometown4 — Sat, 18 Apr 2026 15:35:09 +0000

Donald E. Hendricks Jr., 60 of Clymer, PA, passed away on Friday, April 17, 2026, at Butler Hospital.

He was the son of Donald E. and Rebecca (Coy) Hendricks Sr., born October 16, 1965, in Indiana, PA.

Don was a Nascar and Steeler’s fan. He loved cutting his grass which he was very meticulous about. Don’s greatest love was watching his granddaughter cheering and his two grandsons playing ball. He was a loving husband, father, and grandfather. If you’ve met him, you could never forget him, Don left very impressionable moments. He will be greatly missed by all who knew him.

He is survived by his mother, Rebecca (Coy) Hendricks, step-mother, Cheryl Hendricks, his wife, Loretta “Lori” L. (Sinclair) Hendricks, four children, Chelsea R. Hendricks, Draven L. Hendricks, Donavin W. Hendricks, Duane F. Cooke, one sister, Sondra Hahn and husband Paul, three grandchildren, Blayke, Brody, and Mila Moslak, brother-in-law, Rudy Walls, and many nieces and nephews.

Don was preceded in death by his father, one brother, Greg Hendricks, one sister, Rhonda Walls.

Friends will be received on Monday, April 20, 2026, from 4pm to 7pm at the McCabe~Roof Funeral Home, 565 Franklin St., Clymer. Interment will be private for the family.

Memorial contributions may be made to the funeral Home to assist with the expenses.

Online condolences may be made at www.mccaberooffh.com.

CHARLES LANEY, 70

Hometown4 — Sat, 18 Apr 2026 15:33:20 +0000

Charles Edwin Laney, 70, of Black Lick, PA, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, April 15, 2026, at his home.

Born on October 25, 1955, in Latrobe, Pennsylvania, Charles was the son of the late Earl and Margaret (Klein) Laney. He was a 1975 graduate of Blairsville High School and spent his working years in the coal mines before retiring. Charles was a proud member of the United Mine Workers of America, Local #600.

Charles had a deep appreciation for history and learning. He enjoyed collecting antiques and was an avid reader, with a special interest in the French and Indian War era. This passion led him to participate in historical reenactments, where he embraced his heritage as a Scotch Highlander. Above all, Charles is remembered as a loving, kind, and devoted brother who cherished his family.

He is survived by two stepchildren, William Peace of Brookville and Shawnee Pearce of Glen Campbell; five siblings, James L. Laney (Alice) of Homer City, Patricia Wilson-Cipolla (Tony) of Naples, FL, Barbara Laney of Homer City, Nancy Skultety (Terry) of Homer City, and Ruth Ann Cordell of TN; numerous nieces and nephews; and numerous great nieces and great nephews.

Charles is preceded in death by his parents; wife, Debra (Peace) Laney on April 9, 2026; brothers, Earl, William, Elgin, and Butch Laney; and sisters, Phyllis Pickett, Margaret Thorn, and June Sarra.

The family will receive friends on Monday, April 20, 2026, from 2 to 4 PM and 6 to 8 PM at the Shoemaker Funeral Home, Inc., 49 N. Walnut St., Blairsville, PA. A funeral service will be held in the funeral home on Tuesday at 11 AM with Pastor John Manon officiating.

Interment will be in the Luther Chapel Cemetery, Coral.

To view the online obituary, sign the guest registry or send condolences visit www.shoemakerfamilyservices.com.

PENGUINS CORE THREE BACK IN THE PLAYOFFS AS PITTSBURGH ENDS POSTSEASON DROUGHT

Hometown4 — Sat, 18 Apr 2026 09:15:39 +0000

The Pittsburgh Penguins are back in the Stanley Cup Playoffs, ending a three-year drought after one of the longest postseason streaks in major North American sports history.

The return has special meaning for the team’s core trio—Sidney Crosby, Evgeni Malkin, and Kris Letang—who have now reached the playoffs together once again after missing out in recent seasons.

Malkin, who has been with Pittsburgh since his rookie year in 2006, said the past few seasons without playoff hockey were difficult, and that this run carries added significance as his career moves forward.

Head coach Dan Muse praised the group’s leadership, calling their experience and competitiveness a driving force behind the team’s turnaround this season.

Crosby added that while there wasn’t much formal discussion among the veterans, the goal was always clear—to get back to playing meaningful hockey in the spring.

Together, the trio has helped define one of the most successful playoff eras in NHL history, and now they get another chance to add to it.

STEELERS HEAD INTO DRAFT WITH MOST PICKS, QUESTIONS BUILD ON HOW THEY WILL BE USED

Hometown4 — Sat, 18 Apr 2026 09:12:22 +0000

The Steelers are heading into the 2026 NFL Draft with more picks than any other team, but questions are already building about how they’ll use them.

Pittsburgh holds 12 selections overall, but league analysts say the class is considered top-heavy, with limited depth at key positions.

Quarterback remains the biggest storyline, but reports suggest the only likely first-round option, Fernando Mendoza, is expected to go near the top of the board.

With the draft being held in Pittsburgh, speculation is growing that general manager Omar Khan could look to move some of those picks—possibly even the first-rounder—for future draft capital in 2027.

One scenario being discussed around the league involves the Steelers working a deal with a team like Buffalo, which has fewer early selections this year.

For now, it’s all speculation, but how Pittsburgh approaches draft night could shape its long-term roster plans at quarterback and beyond.

PIRATES TAKE FIRST OF THREE OVER RAYS, GAME TWO TODAY

Hometown4 — Sat, 18 Apr 2026 09:11:21 +0000

The Pirates are back home this afternoon as they continue their series against the Tampa Bay Rays following a 5-1 win.

Greg Brown has the recap.

https://media-cdn.socastsrm.com/wordpress/wp-content/blogs.dir/2140/files/2026/04/4-17-recap.wav

On the mound, Pittsburgh sends Paul Skenes, while Tampa Bay counters with Drew Rasmussen.

The Pirates come in at 12-and-8 on the season and have been strong at home so far, while Tampa Bay is 11-and-8 overall and just above .500 on the road.

Offensively, both teams have had recent success, with Pittsburgh getting power from Oneil Cruz and Tampa Bay leaning on Yandy Díaz and Junior Caminero.

Oddsmakers have the Pirates as the favorite in the matchup.

First pitch is set for 4:05 this afternoon, with the Pirates holding a 1-0 edge in the series. It’s a 3:50 airtime on WCCS.

PENNDOT CONTINUES ROADWAY SAFETY EFFORTS WITH SURFACE TREATMENT

Hometown4 — Sat, 18 Apr 2026 09:09:55 +0000

Drivers in Indiana County should expect lane restrictions this week as PennDOT continues work aimed at improving roadway safety.

The agency says a high friction surface treatment is being applied on portions of Routes 422, 119, 954, and 553 through April 23rd.

Work will take place weekdays from 7 in the morning until 7 at night, with single lane restrictions in several areas, including Route 422 near Yellow Creek Campground, Route 119 near Sleepy Hollow Road, and Route 954 near the Rose Bud Lowery Mine. Officials say the schedule is weather dependent.

PennDOT explains the treatment involves applying aggregate to the roadway surface using a special binder, which increases tire grip and helps improve vehicle control in both wet and dry conditions.

The nearly 2-million-dollar project spans multiple counties in the region, and officials are urging drivers to use caution and check 511PA for the latest travel conditions.

IUP ALUM DONATE TO COLLEGE OF OSTEOPATHIC MEDICINE

Hometown4 — Sat, 18 Apr 2026 09:07:51 +0000

Two Indiana University of Pennsylvania alumni are continuing their support for the school with a major donation tied to a proposed medical program.

University officials announced that Jere Cowden and Dr. Sharon Tahl Cowden have contributed 50-thousand dollars to support IUP’s planned college of osteopathic medicine.

The gift is part of the university’s ongoing “Impact 150” fundraising campaign, which aims to raise 150 million dollars during IUP’s sesquicentennial celebration.

School leaders say the proposed college is designed to help address a growing shortage of physicians, particularly in rural communities. IUP has already secured tens of millions of dollars in support for the project and continues to move through the accreditation process.

The university says the Cowdens’ donation reflects both their personal connection to IUP and a broader effort to expand healthcare access across the region.

IUP TO DEDICATE TREE AS PART OF 150TH ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION

Hometown4 — Sat, 18 Apr 2026 09:06:57 +0000

Indiana University of Pennsylvania will mark a milestone this week with a special Earth Day event.

The university announced a commemorative tree dedication set for April 22nd at 4 p.m. on campus. The event is part of IUP’s ongoing 150th anniversary celebration and also marks the 25th anniversary of the Allegheny Arboretum.

The ceremony will take place in the green space near Wilson Hall, where a White Oak tree will be planted as a symbol of longevity and strength.

University officials say the event highlights IUP’s long-standing commitment to sustainability and campus beautification. The Allegheny Arboretum, which spans the entire 354-acre campus, features more than a thousand trees representing over 100 species.

IUP President Dr. Michael Driscoll is expected to speak, along with others involved in the arboretum’s development.

The event is free and open to the public.

PENNDOT HIGHLIGHTS NEW MODERNIZATION EFFORTS

Hometown4 — Sat, 18 Apr 2026 09:06:02 +0000

PennDOT is highlighting new efforts to modernize transportation across the Commonwealth.

The agency announced today the release of its annual “Focus on Innovations” publication, which outlines more than 30 initiatives either launched or continued over the past year.

According to PennDOT, those efforts focus on improving safety, efficiency, and long-term costs. Among the highlights are new pavement techniques aimed at reducing potholes, expanded use of digital and 3D design to speed up construction projects, and new safety technology like improved barriers, lighting, and message boards in work zones.

The report also points to larger projects, including a proposed passenger rail connection between Scranton and New York City, and continued expansion of electric vehicle charging infrastructure statewide.

PennDOT says the publication is now available online, where drivers can also find real-time road conditions through the 5-1-1 system.

TWO DEFENDANTS ENTER GUILTY PLEA IN CONNECTION WITH HOMICIDE

Hometown4 — Sat, 18 Apr 2026 09:05:20 +0000

Two defendants have entered guilty pleas in connection with a homicide case in Indiana County.

District Attorney Robert Manzi announced yesterday that 24-year-old Isaac Buchkoski and 22-year-old Summer Settlemyer, both of Johnstown, pleaded guilty but mentally ill in the kidnapping and murder of Hayden Gareffa.

Both defendants entered pleas to multiple charges, including second-degree murder, kidnapping, aggravated assault, and related conspiracy counts.

Under Pennsylvania law, a guilty but mentally ill plea means a defendant is still subject to the same sentencing guidelines as any other conviction, but the court can also require mental health treatment while they are incarcerated.

Sentencing for both Buchkoski and Settlemyer is scheduled for August 17th at 8:30 in the morning.

ALICE HEBERLING, 101

Hometown4 — Fri, 17 Apr 2026 14:39:56 +0000

Alice (Stiteler) Heberling, 101, of Home, PA passed away on Wednesday April 15, 2026 at the home of her daughter and son-in-law, with whom she lived since 2021.

She was born March 21, 1925, daughter of the late Clay and Josephine (Kinter) Stiteler. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death in 2020 by her husband of 71 years, Walter Heberling, two brothers Fred and Wayne Stiteler and beloved nephew Allen Lee Stiteler.

Alice was a 70-year member of Old Mahoning Baptist Church where she faithfully served the Lord in various capacities. During WW II she worked in a defense plant in Buffalo, NY and later became a homemaker and mother. She enjoyed playing Scrabble and in her earlier years playing the piano, guitar and singing. Affectionately known as “Mum Mum”, her greatest joy was spending time with her treasured children and grandchildren. Her life was a living testament to her love of God and devotion to her family.

Left to cherish her memory are daughters, Joan (Ken) Park, Creekside; Patty (Steve) Martin, Lititz; grandchildren Greg (Christi) Park, and children Denton, Kayden and Grace; Bryan (Heather) Park and son Gage; Lisa (Chris) Casey and daughters Chelsey and Camryn; Ashley (Benji) Davis and children Matthias, Thea, Luke and expected daughter Elizabeth. Also surviving are special nephew Lyle (Cathy) Stiteler, niece Jeanne Sparks and dear friend Rita Wolfe.

Alice will forever remain in our hearts and will always be remembered for her nurturing disposition, sweet smile, loving heart and her special talent of turning a word or phrase into a song.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Children’s Heart Foundation https://bit.ly/4vzurQC in honor of great granddaughter Thea or St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105.

Friends will be received on Monday, April 20, 2026 at Old Mahoning Baptist Church, 5225 Mahoning Road, Home, PA 15747, from 11:00 AM until the time of service at 1:00 PM with Rev. Micah McMillen officiating.

The family is being cared for by the John A. Lefdahl Funeral Home of Indiana. To share a memory or leave an online condolence, visit www.lefdahlfuneralhome.com

RONALD RYEN SR., 89

Hometown4 — Fri, 17 Apr 2026 14:35:38 +0000

Ronald Rex Ryen, Sr. 89, of Rochester Mills, passed away on Wednesday, April 15, 2026 at his home.

He was born November 22, 1936 to Harry R and Cecelia (Uhrin) Ryen in Indiana.

Ron was a graduate of Central Catholic High School in Pittsburgh. He attended Saint Cosmas and Damien Catholic Church in Punxsutawney. Ron was an avid hunter and gun collector. Most of all Ron loved spending time with his family.

He is survived by his wife of 62 years, Carol (McCracken) Ryen, Rochester Mills, three children, Cheryl Shick and husband Brian, Greensburg, Ronald R. Ryen, Jr. and wife Shannon, NC, Daniel C. Ryen and Kimberly, OH, four grandchildren, Kaitlyn Ryen, Haley Ryen, Reagan Shick, and Luke Ryen.

He was preceded in death by his parents.

Friends will be received on Saturday from 3:00-7:00 PM and also on Sunday from 1:00 PM until the time of a prayer service at 2:00 PM with MSGR Joseph Riccardo, Celebrant, at the McCabe Funeral Home, Inc. 114 Maple Ave., Punxsutawney, PA 15767. Military honors will be provided by the Jefferson County Honor Guard.

Interment will take Place at Greenwood Cemetery in Indiana.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the donor’s choice.

To share a memory or leave an online condolence, visit www.mccabewaldronfh.com

FREDERICK ROADARMEL, JR., 61

Hometown4 — Fri, 17 Apr 2026 14:25:47 +0000

Frederick C. Roadarmel, Jr., 61, of Indiana, passed away on Thursday, April 9, 2026, in Pittsburgh. He was born on September 16, 1964, in Indiana to the late Frederick C. and Millicent (Nicholson) Roadarmel. Fred graduated from the Western Pennsylvania School for the Deaf and spent his career at IUP in the maintenance department. Fred was a lifelong Christian who enjoyed cars, being in nature, sharing stories and jokes as well as riding bicycles. He is survived by his wife Ruth M. (McKenzie) Roadarmel, his sons Robert C. (Mariem) Roadarmel, of WI, Kevin C. Roadarmel, Aaron C. Roadarmel, and Gregory C. Roadarmel all of Indiana, sisters Sandra (Rick) Elkin and Cynthia (Robert) Uher. At Fred’s request, all services were private and had been entrusted to the care of the Donahue Tylinski Funeral Home, Inc. (formerly Bowser Minich). Burial was held in Oakland Cemetery, Indiana.

INDIANA MAN TAKEN INTO CUSTODY BY POLICE IN SUSPECTED BURGLARY

Hometown4 — Fri, 17 Apr 2026 13:58:49 +0000

An Indiana man is in custody after a burglary early Friday morning.

Officers say 45-year-old Jamie Shane Swanger is facing multiple charges, including burglary, criminal trespass, and discharging a firearm into an occupied structure. Police were called just after 4:20 this morning to Exotic Cigar along Philadelphia Street, where witnesses reported gunshots fired into the front door. Investigators say a man then crawled through the shattered glass, took merchandise, and fled on foot. Officers quickly located a suspect matching the description a few blocks away and took him into custody. Police say Swanger had injuries consistent with broken glass and was carrying items believed to be stolen from the store. No one was inside the business at the time, and no injuries were reported.

Police recovered a handgun inside the store along with multiple shell casings outside. The stolen items are valued at more than 13-hundred dollars.

Swanger was arraigned and is being held in the Indiana County Jail on $100,000 bail.

MURRYSVILLE MAN KILLED IN MOTORCYCLE CRASH THURSDAY EVENING

Hometown4 — Fri, 17 Apr 2026 11:38:00 +0000

A motorcycle rider was killed in a crash in Westmoreland County Thursday night.

According to a Pennsylvania State Police report, the crash happened at 10:44 p.m. on State Route 286, where it meets County Road in Loyalhanna Township. A motorcycle driven by 59-year-old Peter C. Devey of Murrysville and a pickup truck driven by 47-year-old Kenneth Walters of Saltsburg were heading west on Route 286 when Walters tried to turn left onto County Road.

Devey was in the left lane for “unknown reasons” and collided with the truck and the trailer it was towing. Police note that he was wearing a helmet but was pronounced dead at the scene. Walters was not injured.

The cause of the crash is under investigation.

IUP SORORITY RAISES OVER 3K DURING FOR LOCAL ORGANIZATIONS

Hometown4 — Fri, 17 Apr 2026 09:20:36 +0000

An IUP sorority is giving back to the local community after a successful fund-raising effort.

Alpha Sigma Tau’s Delta chapter raised $3,125 during Philanthropy Week in March. The funds were donated to several organizations, including Dress for Success Pittsburgh, Girls Who Code, and the Indiana County Humane Society. Members also collected food, hygiene products, and clothing for the Chevy Chase Community Center and other groups.

Organizers say the effort highlights the sorority’s commitment to supporting women’s wellness and local community needs.

REPORTS INDICATE SPIRIT AIRLINES COULD LIQUIDATE AS SOON AS NEXT WEEK

Hometown4 — Fri, 17 Apr 2026 09:03:57 +0000

Bloomburg News reports that Spirit Airlines could liquidate as soon as this week.

The discount carrier currently flies out of Arnold Palmer Regional Airport, a key option for local travelers. If Spirit shuts down, experts say flights would stop immediately, potentially stranding passengers and forcing them to find alternate travel, most likely through Pittsburgh. The uncertainty comes as Spirit faces rising fuel costs and ongoing bankruptcy issues. The airline has not commented on the reports. Airport officials say they’ve already been in talks with other carriers and are preparing for any outcome.

For travelers in Indiana County, the situation could mean fewer convenient and affordable flight options in the near future.

Officials with the airport in Unity Township say they would be dealing with job losses if Spirit dissolves, as the company is the only commercial airline operating out of the hub.

IRMC REACHES MAJOR MILESTONE WITH “GOLD KNEE” REPLACEMENT

Hometown4 — Fri, 17 Apr 2026 09:01:32 +0000

Indiana Regional Medical Center has reached a major milestone in orthopedic care.

IRMC has successfully performed its first “gold knee” replacement, becoming one of the first hospitals in western Pennsylvania to offer the option. The procedure uses Mako SmartRobotics technology to improve precision in implant placement and surgical planning. The gold knee implant is designed for patients with nickel sensitivities, offering a safer alternative while maintaining the strength and function of traditional replacements.

A patient from Punxsutawney says she’s already seeing strong progress, with less pain and improved mobility after putting off surgery for nearly two years.

Hospital leaders say the milestone reflects a commitment to personalized care and bringing leading-edge treatment options to patients close to home.

FIRST RESPONDERS ANSWER CALL FOR “28TH BRUSH FIRE” OF THE YEAR, VEHICLE FIRE AMONG OTHER CALLS

Hometown4 — Fri, 17 Apr 2026 09:00:37 +0000

Indiana County’s first responders were active yesterday with multiple calls for service, including what was initially thought to be the 28^th brushfire of the year.

The call came in just after 7:30 yesterday morning for a location on Route 119 North in Center Township, behind A&G Auto Parts. Fire crews said that it turned out to be a controlled burn, and they told the resident that the fire had to be put out due to an ongoing burn ban in Center Township. The fire company’s request was carried out as the resident used dirt to smother the fire. No major damage was reported.

A vehicle fire was also reported yesterday along Decker’s Point Road in East Mahoning Township at 2:35 pm. Marion Center and Clymer Fire departments were dispatched. No details on that incident have been released.

Other calls included two for utility lines down. The first was reported at 12:50 pm on Sportman Road in Conemaugh Township, and the second was at 1:25 pm for Cooper Avenue in Homer City Borough.

NANCY KUBALEK

Hometown4 — Thu, 16 Apr 2026 12:42:05 +0000

Nancy Lu Kubalek died, unexpectedly, on Tuesday, April 14, 2026, at her home in Clymer.

She is survived by her four children Natalie (Jason) Stearns of Meadville, Jacqueline (Douglas) Russell of Indiana, John (Annette) of Indiana, and Jeffrey (Lisa) of Patton. She was a very proud Nana to seven grandchildren Chase, Kendall, Parker, Henry, Jacob, Reagan, and Reed. She is also survived by her sister Lois (David) of North Wales, PA.

She is preceded in death by her husband John who died in 2014. Her parents Bill and Lucille Lowry, her brother Billy, sister Carol, and her grandson Owen.

To know Nancy was to meet a friend. She helped everyone she could. She was a devoted friend to everyone. She always offered to help where she could. She gave more than she took. She was a nurse, a nurturer, a Pirates fan (#7 Bob Roberton), She loved flowers, birds, and loved her family above all things. She was an endlessly devoted wife and now is in eternal peace with John now in Heaven. She was a wonderful and thoughtful mother and made time to contact each of her children regularly. She was a devoted and committed Nana and being a grandmother was her life’s greatest accomplishment. Her heart was precious, and we will have a Nana sized heart in ours that will never be filled.

Friends will be received Friday April 17 2026 from 2 PM – 6 PM at McCabe Roof Funeral Home 565 Franklin Street, Clymer. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Saturday April 18, 2026 at 9:30 AM at St Bernard Roman Catholic Church 200 Clairvaux Drive, Indiana. Interment will follow and will be private at East Mahoning Cemetery, Marion Center, PA.

Online condolences may be made at www.mccaberooffh.com.

WHITE TOWNSHIP SUPERVISORS HEAR MORE PUBLIC COMMENT ON PROPOSED JUNK VEHICLE ORDINANCE

Hometown4 — Thu, 16 Apr 2026 00:34:53 +0000

At a work session Wednesday evening, the White Township Supervisors heard more public comment concerning the proposed junk vehicle ordinance.

The document would define junked, abandoned, or nuisance vehicles, as well as how they are to be stored on a residents property. Some spoke in favor of the ordinance, saying their property values would be affected due to “eye sores” in their neighbors’ yards. Those against it said that the language of the first draft caused concern regarding privacy rights, and that under the ordinance, business owners would be forced to get rid of vehicles they use for work.

Township Manager Chris Anderson said that the work session was productive, and he is certain they will be able to produce an ordinance everyone will be happy with.

https://media-cdn.socastsrm.com/wordpress/wp-content/blogs.dir/2140/files/2026/04/anderson-compromise.mp3

Once the supervisors come up with another draft, it will have to go up for advertisement before a final vote can be made.

You can find video of the meeting on Renda Digital TV.

JEAN BUZI, 97

Hometown4 — Wed, 15 Apr 2026 15:34:44 +0000

Jean “Jeanie” Buzi, 97, of Homer City, passed away on April 11, 2026, at her sister’s home. She was born on July 22, 1928, in Tearing Run and was the daughter of the late John and Maria (Pini) Buzi.

Jean was a devoted member of Our Lady of the Assumption Parish, where she faithfully served with the Altar Rosary Society. She found great joy in preparing pierogies, cooking for parish festivals, and lending her hands and heart to mercy meals. Fiercely independent and full of spirit, Jean had a well-known sweet tooth and never turned down a good dessert. She fondly missed her bus trips to the casino and took pride in tending to her garden. Even at 97, Jean’s remarkable memory remained sharp—she could recite a cherished recipe flawlessly, a testament to a life rich with tradition, love, and care for others.

She is survived by her sister, Joanna Kuta of Homer City; and by her nieces and nephews; Mark Buzi (Veronica) of Homer City, Dan Kuta (Joanne) of Indiana, Maria Ranallo (Dennis) of Pittsburgh, and Beth Blystone (Jaison) of Shelocta.

Also surviving are her great-nieces and great-nephews; Anthony (Victoria), Natalie (Ben), Patrick, Claire, Bryan (Kylie), Tuscan, Rylin, Bowen, and a great-great-nephew, Everett.

In addition to her parents, Jean was preceded in death by her sisters, Louise, Kathryn “Kuddy”, and Helen “Anna”; her brother, Michael “Mike”; and her infant brother, John.

At the request of Jean, there will be no visitation. A Funeral Mass will be celebrated on Saturday at 10:00 AM at Our Lady of the Assumption Parish, Lucernemines Site. Interment to follow in the SS Simon and Jude Cemetery, Blairsville.

CHRISTINE BROCIUS, 57

Hometown4 — Wed, 15 Apr 2026 15:31:27 +0000

Christine L. Brocius, 57 of Nanty Glo, PA., passed away on Tuesday, April 14, 2026 at UPMC Presbyterian Hospital, Pittsburgh, PA.

She was the daughter of Lynn E. and Mary A. (Mesaros) Williams, born December 12, 1968 in Johnstown, PA.

All services will be private for the family, the McCabe~Roof Funeral Home, 565 Franklin St., Clymer PA is assisting the Brocius family.

Online condolences may be made at www.mccaberooffh.com.

AT LEAST ONE INJURED IN CRASH IN CENTER TOWNSHIP

Hometown4 — Tue, 14 Apr 2026 17:03:06 +0000

At least one person was reported injured in a crash this afternoon in Center Township.

Indiana County 911 sent the Homer City and Coral-Graceton fire departments to a location along 119 South in Center Township, near the Homer City Sheetz. Initial reports indicate that a pickup truck struck an SUV.

The victim has been transported by Citizen’s Ambulance to IRMC. The severity of their injuries is unknown at this time.

Traffic is being blocked in the northbound lanes of 119, and motorists are advised to be cautious as they travel through the area.

KATHRYN FARREN, 80

Hometown4 — Tue, 14 Apr 2026 14:36:35 +0000

Kathryn Ann Farren, 80, of Indiana, passed away Saturday, April 11, 2026, at her home.

A daughter of the late Paul M. and Mable C. (McCunn) Farren, she was born Nov. 21, 1945, in Indiana.

Kathryn retired from Indiana Regional Medical Center, where she was a licensed practical nurse. She was a member of Graystone Presbyterian Church. Kathryn enjoyed bowling in different leagues and golfing at Meadow Lane in a women’s league.

She is survived by two brothers, Calvin P. Farren and wife Bobbie, of Indiana; James Farren and wife Becky, of Indiana; and several nieces and nephews.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by a brother, Harry Farren; and two sisters, Mildred Voytek and Sara Lightcap.

Friends and family will be received from 6 to 8 p.m. Friday, April 17, 2026, at Robinson-Lytle-Shoemaker Funeral Home, 36 N 7^th Street, Indiana. A funeral service will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday, April 18, 2026, at Graystone Evangelical Church, 640 Church Street, Indiana, with Pastor Joe Stroup officiating. Interment will be in Greenwood Cemetery.

To view the online obituary, sign the guest registry or send condolences, please visit

www.shoemakerfamilyservices.com

ROBERT EDWARDS SR., 89

Hometown4 — Tue, 14 Apr 2026 14:32:32 +0000

Robert C. Edwards Sr., 89, of Homer City, died April 11, 2026, at UPMC Mercy, Pittsburgh.

Robert C Edwards Sr is survived by his wife, Ruth Edwards (Short); his children, Sharon Samia (Mark Samia), Deborah Murnan (Timothy Murnan), and Robert Edwards Jr.; and his grandchildren, Bethany Thacker (Bryan Thacker), Christopher Samia, Sean Murnan (Kathryne Cleary), Kevin Murnan, and chosen daughter Elizabeth Barnes (Justin). He is also survived by two great-grandchildren, Harper Thacker and Hadley Thacker, and by many members of his extended family, including cherished nieces and nephews.

He was born in Indiana, PA, on November 6, 1936, to Irvan and Margaret Edwards. The family eventually moved to Blairsville, PA, where he resided until he joined the Navy. He served in the Naval Air from 1955-1959. After returning home, he became reacquainted with Ruth Short, a close family friend, the beautiful love of his life, whom he married in Cumberland, Maryland, on Dec. 30, 1960.

They started their life in Chicago, Illinois where he earned a degree in electronics from Devry Technical Institute in 1961. He was recruited by the AB Dick company due to his expertise with their videograph equipment installation at the Reader’s Digest in Pleasantville, NY, and in 1962, they moved east to Croton Falls, NY. His work in this area earned him high praise and commendations. From there, he took a permanent position at the Reader’s Digest, where he enjoyed working and living alongside his brother George.

He later moved to Carmel NY to raise his family. He and Ruth were very active members of the Brewster, NY, Methodist Church, where he was a prominent leader of many church committees and organized dinners and activities. He was a lay leader and well respected speaker who was called upon to preach at this and many other churches in the area.

He was recognized and very proud of his contributions to the operations at the Reader’s Digest where he worked for 30 years. He rose to the level of supervisor of the office equipment servicing department and was tasked with the installation and maintenance of all electronic equipment used in the daily operations of the company.

He retired in 1994 and returned to the family home in Blairsville PA, where he lived the remainder of his life. He was well known and loved for his devotion to his Christian faith as a member of the Coral Lutheran Church and the Brewster, NY Methodist Churches. His skills as a master woodworker and meticulous attention to detail produced beautiful projects, crafted with love, that were enjoyed, not only by his family, but the community he loved. He was a giver of life by faithfully donating blood. Being the universal blood type O negative, he volunteered as a reserve donor to be called upon for donations in emergency situations; often called to the hospital in the middle of the night and never refusing the request.

His joy of travelling with his family and passion for photographing birds and wild life led to many cross country road trips, state park picnics, and memories to last a lifetime. He was a true outdoorsman and aside from the many adventures with his family, also enjoyed trips to the hunting camp with his buddies. Enthusiasm for family gatherings at home that always included his famous homemade ice cream, sometimes roasting hot dogs over a fire with wood from the trees he cut down himself, and John Deere gator rides with the grandkids.

He treasured his life with Ruth, with whom he recently celebrated 65 years of joy together. He was overflowing with pride in the family they raised and the joy of the many family gatherings they were fortunate to have. He will be missed but never forgotten and his family will carry him with them wherever they may go in this life.

He was predeceased by his parents, Irvan and Margaret Edwards, and by his brother, George Edwards.

Friends will be received on Thursday from 4–8 PM at Bowser Funeral Home and Cremation Services, Inc., Homer City. A Funeral Service will be held Friday at 11 AM at the funeral home, with Pastor Tedd Cogar, officiating. Private interment in the Lutheran Chapel Cemetery, Coral.

Donations may be made in his memory to the Salvation Army

Please visit bowserfh.com to make a donation to the Salvation Army, order flowers or sign the online guestbook.

DELORES DUKES, 67

Hometown4 — Tue, 14 Apr 2026 14:21:42 +0000

Delores B. Dukes died on Friday, April 10, 2026 at Indiana Regional Medical Center. She was 67 years old and was preceded in death by her parents, Gerald and Betty Taylor, as well as by two brothers: Dave Taylor and Gary “Bubba” Taylor.

She is survived by her son, Steven Dukes and fiancé Makayla Eckenroad of Indiana. Delores is also survived by her siblings: Donna Lynch and husband, John and Cheryl Taylor, all of Commodore; Darlene Thiel and husband, Christopher of Pittsburgh and Rick Taylor and wife, Angie of Canton, Georgia.

She is remembered by many grandchildren: Savannah Overly, Bentley Dukes, Drake Dukes and Damon Dukes and Keyaira Lydic.

She will be greatly missed by all.

Online condolences may be made by visiting: evergreencremations.net .

CURTIS GALLA, 67

Hometown4 — Mon, 13 Apr 2026 13:07:11 +0000

Curtis Michael Galla, 67 of Heilwood passed away at his home on Wednesday, April 8, 2026.

He was the son of Michael J. Galla and Julia (Holuta) Galla, born May 12, 1958 in Heilwood, PA.

Curtis retired from PennDot, was a member of St. Michael’s Orthodox Church in Clymer and Pine Twp. Fire Company in Heilwood. He loved Bluegrass music, going to Bluegrass festivals with his Mom & his beloved dogs, Coco & Sandy, and jamming with his musical friends.

Curtis is survived by Betty Davis, of Rising Sun, MD, his aunt, last surviving sister of Julia and also many loving cousins and friends. The family would also like to thank Keith and Amy Muir & Jeanne Ludwig for all of their help throughout the many years.

Curtis was preceded in death by his parents (Julia and Michael Galla), six uncles, Charles, John, George, Pete, Joseph, Michael Holuta, and four aunts, Ann Gagliardi, Mary Protz, Helen Trynovich, Dorothy Holuta.

Friends will be received on Friday, April 17, 2026 from 10:00 am to 11:00 am at St. Michael’s Orthodox Church, 495 Morris St. Clymer with his funeral service being celebrated at 11:00 am with the Very Rev. Protopresbyter Frank Miloro as celebrant. Interment will follow in St. Michael’s cemetery, Clymer. The McCabe~Roof Funeral Home, Clymer is assisting the family.

Online condolences may be made at www.mccaberooffh.com.

BARBARA WALTEMIRE, 78

Hometown4 — Mon, 13 Apr 2026 13:00:08 +0000

 Barbara Marlene Waltemire, 78, Homer City, PA passed away on Friday, April 10, 2026, in Indiana, PA.

The daughter of Blaine J. and Emily (Steinman) Waltemire, she was born November 17, 1947, in Blairsville, PA.

Barabara graduated from Penns Manor High School, Class of 1965.

She attended Hope Lutheran Church in Homer City.

She was owner/operator of Brush Valley Corner Market for 16 years and was employed in the research library at the Historical & Genealogical Society of Indiana County for many years.

Barbara loved working on crossword puzzles, reading, and genealogy. She especially loved her sweet little companion, Bella.

Surviving are her three children, Dennis E. Bennett (Laura) of Brush Valley, Steven W. Bennett (Becky) of Brush Valley, and Jennifer R. Stahl (Miles) of Armagh; six grandchildren; three great grandchildren; a brother, John Waltemire (Nancy) of Lucernemines; and a sister, Shirley Friday (Walter) of Homer City.

She was preceded in death by her parents, a sister, Anna Belle Bennett and a brother, Blaine J. Waltemire, Jr.

The family will receive friends on Tuesday, April 14, 2026, from 6-8 PM at the Robinson-Lytle-Shoemaker Funeral Home, 36 N. 7th St., Indiana. A funeral service will be held in the funeral home on Wednesday, April 15th at 11 AM with Pastor Brandon Mountan officiating.

Interment will be in the Maple Grove Cemetery, Penn Run, PA.

To view the online obituary, sign the guest registry or send condolences, visit www.shoemakerfamilyservices.com

KATHLEEN JOHNSTON, 73

Hometown4 — Mon, 13 Apr 2026 12:46:08 +0000

Kathleen Ruth “Kathy” Pavlick Johnston, 73, of Blairsville, passed away on April 10, 2026, after a courageous battle with cancer. Born on October 11, 1952, in Josephine, Pennsylvania, Kathy was the cherished daughter of the late Edward and Dorothy Rager Pavlick. She graduated from Blairsville High School in 1970, where she was an honor roll student, a member of the color guard, and a dedicated member of the band as a clarinet player.

Kathy attended Indiana University of Pennsylvania until she met the love of her life, John Johnston, Jr. They were married on June 3, 1972, and shared a devoted marriage until John’s passing in 2017. Kathy found great joy in her family and the simple pleasures of life, including baking, reading, watching television, and previously raising award-winning pygmy goats. She loved dogs and will be missed by her current companion, Sadie.

She is survived by her two sons: John Johnston III and his wife, Kara, along with their children—Kiernan, John IV (Johnny), Keelyn, and Lily—whom Kathy deeply loved as a devoted grandmother. She is also survived by her son, Richard Johnston, who lovingly served as her caretaker as he was continually by her side during her illness. Kathy was also a loving grandmother to Ashley Kirkland and Jacey Kirkland, who she would spoil with an endless assortment of hugs, kisses (and ice cream). A tradition she would continue with her great grandchildren, Rhode, Iren and Delilah. Kathy is further survived by her four siblings: Edward Pavlick (Bobbi), Mark Pavlick (Mary Lou), Daniel Pavlick (Aimee); and Patrick Pavlick (Lucy). In addition, she leaves behind numerous cousins and many dear friends. Kathy will be remembered for her warm spirit, her love of family, and the quiet strength she showed throughout her life.

The family will receive friends at the Ferguson Funeral Home & Monument Company, 25 W. Market St. Blairsville, PA 15717 on Tuesday, April 14, 2026 from 2-4 & 6-8 PM. A funeral service will be held in the funeral home on Wednesday, April 15, 2026 at 11:00 AM with Rev. William A. Schaefer officiating. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Kathy’s memory to a cancer research organization or local animal rescue, in honor of her love for her pygmy goats.

Rest in peace, dear Kathy. You will be deeply missed.

www.fergusonblairsville.com

DOROTHY DUKE, 82

Hometown4 — Mon, 13 Apr 2026 12:22:50 +0000

Dorothy B. Duke, 82, of Indiana, went to be with the Lord on April 8, 2026. A Registered Nurse for over 45 years, Dorothy devoted her life to serving her community at Indiana Hospital, Torrance State Hospital, Cove PREP, The Moorehead House and several local care facilities before retiring well into her 70’s.

Dorothy was the daughter of the late Charles and Lillian Irvin and the wife of the late Charles “Jim” Duke. She was a graduate of Aliquippa High School and Sewickley Valley School of Nursing. She will be remembered for her love of family, reading, and her love of travel.

She will be truly missed by her daughter Erin Morrison and husband Bill; grandchildren Ashley Theiss (Fred) and Tanner Morrison (Casidhe); great-grandson Freddy Theiss; and daughter-in-law Rachel Antico. She was preceded in death by her husband and her son, Eric Duke.

Friends will be received Tuesday, April 14, 2026, from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM at Rairigh-Bence Funeral Home & Crematory, 965 Philadelphia St., Indiana, where her funeral service will begin at 1:00 PM with Pastor Steve Rearick officiating. A private interment will follow at Ruffner Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the American Heart Association.

Online condolences may be made by visiting: rbfh.net .

DEBRA LANEY, 69

Hometown4 — Fri, 10 Apr 2026 13:02:08 +0000

Debra “Debbie” Jean (Peace) Laney, 69, of Black Lick, PA died Thursday, April 9, 2026 at the Indiana Regional Medical Center in Indiana, PA.

The daughter of Ira Clayton and Stella Grace (Smail) Peace, she was born on January 3, 1957 in Spangler, PA.

Debbie wed Charles “Chuck” Edwin Laney on February 29, 2000 and they shared over twenty-six years of marriage.

Following a career in restaurant management, Debbie retired from her position as manager at the Perkins Restaurant in Indiana, PA.

Debbie was a member of the Grace Bible Church in Black Lick, PA, where she greatly enjoyed spending time with her church family participating in many activities. One of her favorite annual church missions was the Operation Christmas Child Shoebox ministry at Christmastime.

Naturally graced with artistic talent, Debbie loved painting on various media, such as canvas, feathers and slate, as well as attending weekend painting retreats. Debbie enjoyed making all sorts of craft projects and would specifically create appropriate 17^th and 18^th century items to sell at Cook Forest. Her love of creativity and the fun Debbie had designing and sharing her artistic projects brought immense joy to her life and the lives of others.

Debbie looked forward to wearing the appropriate attire to participate, along with her husband Chuck, in historic period reenactments in Fredericksburg, MD. Debbie and Chuck would also take pleasure in visiting flea markets and areas with antiques.

Debbie liked flowers and hummingbirds. Most of all, Debbie was a woman of faith, who thoroughly loved spending time with her family.

Her pets over the years became cherished members of her family, such as her Pomeranians: Jake; Keighly and Lipton; her huskies: Samson and Coty and her cats: Tom, Tim, Tucker, Shadow and Spencer

A loving wife, mother and grandmother, Debbie is survived by her husband, Chuck Laney of Black Lick, PA; her two children: William Peace of Brookville, PA and Shawnee Pearce of Glen Campbell, PA and Shawnee’s friend, Eddie Pearce of Punxsutawney, PA; her three grandchildren: Shoshone Best; Alex Joel Peace and Cody Kunselman and her three great grandchildren; Mason Jack; Amelia and Oliver.

Debbie was blessed to be part of a large family. She was one of sixteen children. Surviving are her nine siblings: Charlotte Brown; Ira Peace; Melody Rumbaugh; Regina Peace; Lesa Hancock; Simon Peace; Larry Peace; Randy Peace and Mickey Heeman; numerous nieces and nephews and her husband, Chuck’s family.

She was preceded in death by her parents and her six siblings: Frances Magill; Gloria Kunselman; Russell Peace; Robin Peace; Billy Peace and an infant.

Family and friends will be received on Saturday, April 11, 2026 from Noon until the time of the 1:00 p.m. funeral service at the Rairigh Funeral Home, Ltd. in Hillsdale, PA. Pastor John Johnson will officiate. Interment will be at Rowley Cemetery, Hillsdale, PA.

Visit rairighfh@rairighfh.com to sign Debbie’s guestbook and share a memory or a condolence messages.

THOMAS FINK, SR., 78

Hometown4 — Fri, 10 Apr 2026 12:51:40 +0000

Thomas Earl Fink, Sr., 78, of Uniontown, PA, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, April 7, 2026, at home surrounded by family.

The son of David R. and Ruth (Heckman) Fink, he was born on December 4, 1948, in Indiana, PA.

Thomas graduated from Blairsville High School, Class of 1966. A year later, he enlisted in the United States Marine Corps, and he proudly served our country overseas during the Vietnam War. He also served in the National Guard. Thomas later worked for Ebara Elliott Energy in Jeannette as a security guard.

He was a member of the American Legion, Post 515, Latrobe, and he was also in the Marine Corps League.

Thomas was an avid Pittsburgh sports fan and loved spending time with his family. He was a kind soul and had an appreciation for the simple things, in particular his black coffee, cigarettes, and Pabst Blue Ribbon beer.

He is survived by his five children, Linda Rainey (Terry) of Uniontown, Pam Chesla (Tom) of Derry, Thomas Fink Jr. of Haymarket, VA, Ruth Ferguson (Kesha) of Chunchula, AL, and Edwin Fink (Charles) of NC; grandchildren, Collin (Lucky), Nathan (Mackenzie), Kailey, Tyler, Emarie, Athena, and Amelia; great grandson, Sullivan John; brother, Edwin Fink Sr. of Johnstown; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Thomas is preceded in death by his parents and brothers David, Jim, and Mason.

The family will receive friends on Monday, April 13, 2026, from 2 to 4 PM at the Shoemaker Funeral Home, Inc., 49 N. Walnut St., Blairsville, PA. Blairsville Military Honor Guard and the Marine Corps League will have military services in the funeral home at 4 PM.

The family would like to give a special thanks to Ospta Hospice, and in particular, Sammy, Brittany, and Terri.

To view the online obituary, sign the guest registry or send condolences visit www.shoemakerfamilyservices.com.

STATE POLICE ASKING FOR HELP IN IDENTIFYING RETAIL THEFT SUSPECT

Hometown4 — Fri, 10 Apr 2026 12:14:39 +0000

State police are asking for the public’s help in identifying the suspect involved in a retail theft in White Township.

Troopers say that on February 21^st, an unknown adult male entered Martins Grocery Store along Oakland Avenue and stole $43.36 worth of merchandise in a backpack he was carrying. He then fled without paying for any of the items.

He is described as a middle-aged adult male with a black and gray beard. He was seen wearing a knit hat, a two-tone zip-up jacket, dark-colored pants, and was carrying a backpack.

Anyone with information is encouraged to contact Trooper Genser at 724-357-1960.

RICKIE BLYSTONE, 73

Hometown4 — Thu, 09 Apr 2026 15:28:21 +0000

Rickie Blystone, 73, of Creekside, PA, passed away on April 6, 2026, at Beacon Ridge Nursing Home, Indiana, PA.

He was the son of Delbert E. and Mabel (Kinter) Blystone, born February 21, 1953, in Indiana, PA.

Rickie loved hunting and spending time with his family, nieces and nephews, Brandon Adams, Colton Adams , Rose Adams, Natasha’s Adams, Joe Adams, Katelyn Adams, Emily Adams, Bentlee and Wyatt Weston, Tammy Meckley, David Blystone, his brother, Ed Blystone, Rhonda Blystone, fiancé Brandon Weston, two cousins, Betty, and Max.

He loved riding quads and watching western movies. Rickie got along with about anyone he was a good guy.

All services will be private for the family. The McCabe~Roof Funeral Home, 565 Franklin St. Clymer is assisting the Blystone family.

DR. WILLIAM MAXWELL, 91

Hometown4 — Thu, 09 Apr 2026 14:43:06 +0000

Dr. William L. Maxwell, formerly of Ithaca NY, died peacefully on Tuesday, March 31, 2026, at Saint Andrew’s Village in Indiana, PA. Max was 91 years old.

He graduated from Central High School in Philadelphia, Class of 1952, where he was recently inducted into its Hall of Fame. Max earned his Bachelor’s, Master’s and Doctorate at Cornell University, then stayed for his entire career, retiring in 1998 as Professor Emeritus at Cornell’s School of Operations Research and Information Engineering. Later that year, Max was inducted into the National Academy of Engineering.

In retirement, Max and his wife Judith traveled the world, both for pleasure and to build Alcoholics Anonymous in several foreign countries, including Russia. He also spent a great deal of time and energy on philanthropic endeavors in the college town he loved. He was active with the Greater Ithaca Activities Center (GIAC), spending time swimming and lifeguarding at the Alex Haley Pool, then helping design and finance Max’s Wading Pool of which he was very proud. Throughout his career and his retirement, Max was the recipient of many awards, achievements, and accolades. But it is his volunteerism and service that his family and the communities he impacted will remember as his signature style.

In his final years at Saint Andrews Village, he made many friends. As news of his death spread through the community, stories were told of Max and the joy and laughter he brought both employees and residents alike.

He is predeceased by his parents and his sister, Gertrude Maxwell.

Max is survived by his beloved wife, Judith, who is also a resident at Saint Andrew’s Village; his children, Debbie Dixon (David), David Maxwell (Mary), Judy Maxwell (Jodi Holtman), and Keely Maxwell (Michael Rahnis); seven grandchildren; and nine great-grandchildren.

At Max’s request, there will be no service, but all who knew him are welcome to eat some pretzels, sip a coffee, read a good murder mystery, tell a joke, work on a puzzle, or simply do a kind deed.

Memorial contributions can be sent to Greater Ithaca Activities Center, 301 W Court St, Ithaca NY 14850.

Shoemaker Funeral Home, Inc. at 49 N. Walnut St., Blairsville, PA 15717 has been entrusted with the arrangements.

To view the online obituary, sign the guest book or send condolences, visit www.shoemakerfamilyservices.com.

BRENDA SHERBA, 79

Hometown4 — Thu, 09 Apr 2026 13:39:25 +0000

Brenda Sherba passed away peacefully at the age of 79 at Bethlen Home on April 8, 2026. She was preceded in death by her beloved daughter, Rebecca Jo Sherba. She is survived by her devoted husband of 61 years, John Sherba; and her two daughters, Donna (Dave) Buco and JoAnn (Dave) Cavanaugh.

She was a proud grandmother to Rebecca (John) Kishlock, Nichole Johnson (Rick Harmon), William (Fah) Cavanaugh, Matthew Cavanaugh, and Elizabeth Cavanaugh; and a loving great-grandmother to Ethan and Lukas Kishlock; Nathan Rodkey; Jace and David Johnson; and Johanna Cavanaugh.

Brenda is also survived by her brothers, Jack (Darlene) Ellison and Bob (Wanita) Ellison; half-sisters, Judie Parks, Bonnie Berkey (Jim), and Mildred (Willie) Warren; her sister-in-law, Penny Kwisnek, and the late Jim Kwisnek; as well as many loving nieces and nephews.

Brenda loved to cook, something she carried throughout her life and shared with those around her (she spent many years working at Dean’s Diner). She enjoyed time with her family, friends, and neighbors, had a true green thumb and a special love for her flowers, and of course, never passed up a good game of bingo.

The family will receive friends at the Ferguson Funeral Home & Monument Company, 25 W. Market St. Blairsville, PA 15717 on Sunday, April 12, 2026 from 1-3 PM, with a funeral service held at 3 PM. Rev. John L. Buchmann will officiate. Interment will be held in the Blairsville Cemetery, Blairsville, PA. If so desired, memorial donations may be made in Brenda’s name to Four Footed Friends, 220 Beck Road, Indiana, PA 15701.

JULIAN RAINEY, 22

Hometown4 — Thu, 09 Apr 2026 12:17:29 +0000

Julian Scott Rainey, age 22, of Indiana, Pennsylvania, passed away unexpectedly at his apartment on Friday, April 3, 2026.

Julian was a beloved son, brother, and boyfriend whose kindness and warmth touched everyone who knew him. He was a truly kind soul—thoughtful, loyal, and possessing a heart of gold that he wore on his sleeve. Adventurous by nature, Julian loved the outdoors and lived life with the fearless spirit of a daredevil. His laughter and funny personality could brighten any room, and his love for his family was immense and unwavering.

Julian will be remembered for his creativity, his gentle nature, and his unbreakable spirit for adventure. He leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, and countless cherished memories that will live on in the hearts of those who loved him.

He is survived by his mother Jessica Hopkins and Mason Hopkins; his father, Brian Rainey; his sisters, Julia Rainey and Anna Rainey; his niece, Layna Rapach; his grandparents Beverly Kubistek , Mary Hopkins Cindy Edward Stoker, Tim Livingston, Jack Rainey SR and Kathleen Rainey; His aunts Johnna Garris, Monica Harris, Linda Hopkins and Heather Kettering; uncles Aaron Hopkins, Guy Hopkins Jack Rainey Jr and Nick Rainey; as well as several great-aunts, great-uncles, and many cousins. He was preceded in death by his grandfather John Kubistek

A memorial ceremony will be held at Bowser Funeral Home and Cremation, Homer City, Pennsylvania. Services will be private and limited to immediate family and close friends.

Julian’s kindness, creativity, and vibrant spirit for adventure will never be forgotten. He will be deeply missed and forever loved.

WHITE TOWNSHIP APPROVES COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE

Hometown4 — Wed, 08 Apr 2026 18:29:59 +0000

At their meeting Wednesday afternoon, the White Township Supervisors approved the update to the 2026 Comprehensive Plan.

The document updates the township’s “2020 Priorities,” which itself was an update of the Comprehensive Plan adopted in 2008.

The new iteration targets land use, housing, conservation, transportation, community facilities, and interrelationships with other entities, and contains goals and plans for future development. White Township Manager Chris Anderson said that this will assist them with grant funding as well.

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Supervisors also looked over two bids. The first was for road materials, which was approved awarded to both Blanco Trucking of Rural Valley for construction materials, and to Lindy Paving of New Galilee for snow and asphalt related materials. Another bid for fuel was tabled, as the margins were considered too high.

WORLD WAR II VET TAKES A RIDE FOR 102ND BIRTHDAY

Hometown4 — Wed, 08 Apr 2026 16:10:03 +0000

A World War II veteran marked an item off her bucket list Wednesday morning.

Ruth Hurley turns 102 years old tomorrow, and marked the occasion today by taking a motorcycle ride through the parking lot of the Fountains at Indiana. Hurley was born April 9th, 1924 in Pittsburgh. She served in World War II in the Women’s Army Corps as a nurse administrator and stenographer. She served in the Philippines and New Guinea until she was honorably discharged in December of 1944.

Family, friends, and some elected officials attended the ride today to show their support. Hurley said it was a pleasant surprise to see how many people showed up.

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Rick Hurley, Ruth’s son said that she has always had a sense of adventure.

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You can find pictures and video from the ride on our Facebook page.

JAMES BICEGO, 82

Hometown4 — Wed, 08 Apr 2026 14:07:08 +0000

James Emilio Bicego, 82, of Indiana, passed away at home surrounded by his family on Monday April 6, 2026. He was born in Indiana on May 25, 1943, to the late Jeano and Linda (Dellafiora) Bicego. He graduated from Apollo High School and attended the Educational Institute of Pittsburgh earning a degree in Drafting. Jim worked for several engineering companies in Pittsburgh and then for the Homer City power plant as an operations shift supervisor prior to his retirement. Jim later delivered medical supplies for Diamond Drug.

Jim was a humble hard-working man, who lived a life not defined by words but by countless small acts of kindness that made a lasting impact on everyone around him. His interests were swimming laps at the YMCA, exercising, reading, sudoku, Notre Dame Football, gardening, and lawn care. His greatest joy was his family. He was a loving husband, proud father and Pap-Pap to his five grandsons. He was often seen on the sidelines watching his grandsons’ sporting events and activities. Jim was a member of St. Bernard of Clairvaux Parish where he also served in the Knights of Columbus, #1481.

Surviving Jim are his wife of 57 years Bonnie L. (Cichocki) Bicego, daughter Kristi (Tim) Garma of Cranberry Township, son Jim (Monique) Bicego, Jr., of Birmingham, Michigan, grandsons Zachary and Nathan Garma, Sebastian, Crosby, and Sullivan Bicego, a brother Gene (June) Bicego of Indiana, brother-in-law Bob (Cathy) Shafer of Colorado, as well as many cousins and friends.

In addition to his parents, Jim was preceded in death by his father and mother-in-law, John and Jean Cichocki.

Friends will be received by the family on Friday April 10, 2026, from 2:00 PM until 6:00 PM, in the Donahue-Tylinski Funeral Home, Inc. (Formerly Bowser Minich), 500 South Ben Franklin Road, Indiana. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30 AM on Saturday April 11, 2026, in St. Bernard of Clairvaux Parish. Entombment will follow in St. Bernard Mausoleum.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in memory of Jim to either the Mario Lemieux Center for Blood Cancer, VIA: UPMC Cancer Pavilion, Suite 1B, Pittsburgh, PA 15232, or at www.upmchillman.com/donate, or to the St. Vincent de Paul Society, 410 North 4th Street, Indiana, PA 15701.

MARY LOU WANCHISN, 88

Hometown4 — Wed, 08 Apr 2026 12:43:48 +0000

Mary Lou Wanchisn passed away peacefully on Friday, April 3, 2026, at her home, leaving behind a legacy of love, hard work, and devotion to family. Born on April 20, 1938, in Waterman, she was the daughter of Mike and Mary (Lellick) Rado.

Mary Lou was a member of Saint Mary’s Holy Protection Byzantine Catholic Church, Homer City. She was a dedicated worker throughout her life, having been employed by Penn Traffic and Robert Shaw. In her free time, she found joy in the simple pleasures of life, especially cooking, baking, yard work, and keeping a welcoming home. She loved preparing special Sunday dinners after church, a tradition that brought her family together.

She is survived by her loving children, Debbie MacBlane (James) of McKinney, Texas, and Carol Mlakar (Mark) of Lucernemines. She was a proud grandmother to Mike McBlane (April) of Texas, Ashley MacBlane of Texas, and Matthew Mlakar of Lucerne.

She is also survived by her brother-in-law, Paul, and wife, Judy Wanchisn, of Marion Center, Pennsylvania; sisters-in-law, Mary Durnwald, of St. Petersburg, Florida; Barb Rado, of Homer City, and Pauline Yerecic, of Cranberry Township. Her special niece and nephew, Theresa and Jim, along with many other family members and friends, will miss her dearly.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her beloved husband; two brothers, Jim and Mike; and her sister, Dolores Fenton.

A Divine Liturgy of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Friday, April 10, 2026, at 10:00 AM at Saint Mary’s Holy Protection Byzantine Catholic Church, Homer City. Interment will follow at St. Bernard Cemetery, Indiana.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the church in her memory.

MAYOR SIMMELTON HONORS IUP WOMEN’S BASKETBALL WITH PROCLAMATION

Hometown4 — Wed, 08 Apr 2026 01:14:40 +0000

The IUP Women’s Basketball team was honored with a proclamation at Tuesday night’s Indiana Borough Council meeting.

Mayor Charles Simmelton honored the achievement of making it to the NCAA championship by marking April 8th “IUP Women’s Basketball Day”. Simmelton said that these women and coaches not only played an amazing season, but brought Indiana to the national stage.

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Council also approved raising the recycling fee for borough residents from one to three dollars per month, citing problems that the recycling center is having receiving enough materials to cover their costs.

PURCHASE LINE SCHOOL DISTRICT ISSUES STATEMENT CONCERNING WEAPON ON CAMPUS

Hometown4 — Tue, 07 Apr 2026 19:32:13 +0000

The Purchase Line School District has issued a statement concerning a weapon on campus.

Upon arriving at school Tuesday, a high school student realized they had a pocket knife in their possession and immediately turned it into the principal. The principal then confirmed that no other contraband was found. Officials say that at no point was anyone threatened or harmed.

Notifications were sent out to the district community the same day as part of the requirements of Act 44 of 2025 regarding parental and employee notification of weapon incidents.

Statement issued by the Office of the Superintendent

ONE-VEHICLE ACCIDENT REPORTED IN INDIANA BOROUGH

Hometown4 — Tue, 07 Apr 2026 19:18:08 +0000

No injuries were reported following a vehicle accident in Indiana Borough this afternoon.

The call came in just before 3 p.m. for the accident at the intersection of 4^th and Philadelphia streets. Officials say that the driver veered off the side of the road, hitting multiple road signs, sending one of them through the windsheild. The vehicle came to a stop after hitting a utility pole nearly head-on.

The exact cause of the accident is currently unknown. The driver was uninjured.

IUP ALUM MAKES SIX-FIGURE DONATION TO IUP’S ‘IMPACT 150’ CAMPAIGN

Hometown4 — Tue, 07 Apr 2026 17:05:09 +0000

Indiana University of Pennsylvania has received a major boost to its fundraising campaign, thanks to a six-figure gift from a distinguished alum.

Retired Rear Admiral C.J. Jaynes, a Greensburg native and IUP graduate, has donated $100,000 to the university’s Impact 150 campaign. Her gift will support the endowed faculty fellowship program within IUP’s Kopchick College of Natural Sciences and Mathematics.

IUP President Dr. Michael Driscoll called the donation a “transformative investment,” adding that Jaynes has long been a champion for students in STEM fields and for veterans.

SARAH HENRY, 93

Hometown4 — Tue, 07 Apr 2026 14:10:37 +0000

Sarah E. Henry, 93, of Lucernemines, passed away peacefully. Born July 12, 1932, in Dayton, she lived a life devoted to her family.

She is survived by her children; Darlene (Tom) Viola, Susan Wheeler, Timothy (Diana) Henry, Pat and Pam Henry, Kevin Henry, and Jennifer Henry.

She is also survived by her grandchildren; Georgi Riddle, Katie (Dustin) Bruening, Adam (Kassi) Sasala, and Emily (Jake) Hignett, her great-grandchildren; Codee Allison, Merissa (Chris) Ramsden, Tiler (Kayla) Black, Lincoln Kovach, Christian Wenger, and Sophia Bruening, her great-great-grandchildren; Jalen Snow, Trystin Pavlik, Leland Ramsden, Deklan Black, Beau Black, Levi Ramsden, Noah Ramsden, Asher Ramsden, Danavin Day, Gavin Day, and Charlotte Sasala.

She was preceded in death by her husband; Elmer E. Henry; her daughter, Barbara Henry, her infant son, Thomas Henry; and her grandson, Ryan Henry.

Friends will be received Wednesday from 6–8 PM and Thursday from 9 AM until the time of the funeral service at 10 AM at Bowser Funeral Home and Cremation Services, Inc., Homer City. Interment to follow in the Brush Valley Lutheran Cemetery.