The trip started yesterday in Armstrong County and went through parts of Westmoreland County before ending up on Route 22 last night and stopping near Blairsville.

Edwards Rigging and Hauling Project Manager Willie Sanford said that yesterday saw very few problems with the run.

The transport left the Southpoint the building in the 8:00 hour and are expected to be on the Homer City Generating campus by noon today.

Haulers Edwards Moving and Rigging say in a post on their Facebook page that the first portion of Campbells Mill Road near 119 will be temporarily closed to accommodate the vehicles.  Motorists should expect delays and use caution along the route and where necessary, allow some extra travel time.

Indiana Borough Police were called out along with Citizen’s Ambulance and Indiana Fire Association members to the intersection of Wayne Avenue and Grant Street in Indiana Borough at 9:02 AM for the two-vehicle crash.  Officers say that a car was going west in the 700 block of Grant Street and failed to stop for a stop sign, and was hit by a northbound SUV as it entered the intersection.  The car continued westbound and hit a pedestrian that was using a personal mobility device.  The pedestrian suffered minor injuries and was taken to IRMC for treatment.  Both vehicles had to be towed.

Police say that the car driver is being charged with a stop sign violation.

The first was before the crash on Wayne Avenue at 7:20 AM as Iselin Fire Department was called to Armstrong County for a crash on Route 156 and Girty Road at 7:20 AM.  At 1:47 PM, the third crash of the day was reported on Route 422 East in Cherryhill Township.  Cherryhill Township firefighters were sent to the scene along with Citizens’ Ambulance and State Police.  The fourth crash was at 5:32 as Commodore Fire Department and QRS teams were sent along with state police and Citizens’ to a location on Route 286 in Green Township.

The fourth brought fire crews from Blairsville and Blacklick along with Citzens, Mutual Aid ambulance, Homer City QRS and State Police to a location on Old William Penn Highway at 7:58 PM.  The final crash on Wednesday was on Route 22 in Westmoreland County, and Blairsville and Blacklick fire departments were sent at 9:47 PM along with Citizens’ Ambulance.

The start of the school year was delayed for Homer-Center students due to aspergillus spores found in the elementary building.  While the high school was not affected, the start of school was initially delayed for them to keep them in line with elementary students being out.  High school students went back on September 1^st, three days after the original start of school, but classes continued to be delayed for elementary students as remediation efforts continued.  Elementary students started classes on September 10^th.  While the district had plans in place to make up the lost days for the high school, its still unknown how the elementary class days will be made up.  That will be determined when the revised school calendar is approved tonight.

The board will also vote on the evaluation of Superintendent Ralph Cecere and have a second reading and final passage on 11 policies ranging from superintendent employment to discrimination and harassment affecting students and staff.

The meeting starts at 7:30 tonight in the district boardroom.

The crash was reported around 9:02 AM at the intersection of Wayne Avenue and Grant Street.  Indiana Fire Association Chief Lee Thompson said the crash was a T-bone style collision and said the pedestrian was someone riding a mobility scooter.  He says that the crash happened along one of the busier stretches of road in the borough.

The pedestrian was taken to the hospital.  The road was blocked for about 45 minutes as Indiana Borough Police investigated and the vehicles were towed from the scene. ]]> http://www.wccsradio.com/2026/09/16/pedestrian-hurt-in-two-vehicle-crash-in-indiana-borough/feed/ 0 http://www.wccsradio.com/2026/09/16/rosebud-picks-up-keystone-mine-safety-award/ http://www.wccsradio.com/2026/09/16/rosebud-picks-up-keystone-mine-safety-award/#respond Wed, 16 Sep 2026 12:00:09 +0000 Josh Widdowson 2026-09-16T12:12:56+00:00 https://d1996.cms.socastsrm.com/?p=1377601 The Pennsylvania Coal Alliance has announced the recipients of its annual mine safety and reclamation awards, including an award for a mine operator in Indiana County.

(State Representative Jim Struzzi (far left) and Pennsylvania Coal Alliance Executive Director Rachael Gleason (far right) join Rosebud Mining employees for the presentation of the Keystone Mine Safety Award.  Photo courtesy of Tom Meinert)

Rosebud mining was honored with a 2026 Keystone Mine Safety Award for the Crooked Creek Mine.  The award recognizes companies for superior employee safety records based on nonfatal days-lost rates and total man-hours worked.  In the Long Continuous Mine category, Rosebud’s Crooked Creek mine was honored for having a 0.00 NFDL rate and over 1.1 million man hours.

The awards were presented by State Representatives Jim Struzzi and Dallas Kephart.  In a statement, Struzzi said that the coal industry “continues to demonstrate that safety and environmental stewardship are fundamental to responsible mining,” and the award winners represent the best in the industry.

The local share account funding was approved by the Commonwealth Financing Authority on September 15^th, and uses money generated by casinos to support projects that improve the quality of life for area residents.  Fourteen projects will receive funding, including $25,067 to purchase and implement body cameras for the Indiana County Sheriff’s office and $2 million that will be split between the Highridge Water Authority’s North Blacklick Township Project and replacement of the West Wheatfield #1 pump station with a new pump.

In a statement, Senator Pittman said that all the projects are vital to the stability and growth of the region and that “Thoughtful investments in local infrastructure and economic development initiatives help ensure municipalities can meet the needs of residents now and into the future.”

The list of grants includes:

• Brush Valley Township is receiving $208,060 to construct a salt/anti-skid storage building to keep material dry and prevent it from freezing.
• Burrell Township is receiving $397,590 to repair and expand various areas within Saylor Park, including repairing and upgrading the parking lot, expanding the center road width and adding parking spaces, and resurfacing and expanding the walking track to connect to the park’s newly installed creekfront beach.
• Canoe Township is being awarded $141,900 to replace its aging drum roller with a new, fully equipped drum roller for local roadway maintenance operations.
• Highridge Water Authority is receiving:
  • $1 million for phase II part B of the Route 217 North Blacklick Township project which includes installing a new waterline beginning at Thompson Road and ending at Williams Road to correct the lack of water volume and poor water quality. This will benefit 34 nearby homes.
  • $1 million to replace the current West Wheatfield #1 pump station with a new booster pump station to reduce downtime and maintenance costs.
• Homer City Borough is being awarded $130,023 to replace their current, 35-year-old skid steer by purchasing a new skid steer with broom, utility and mower attachments; a zero-turn mower; and a utility trailer.
• Indiana Borough is being awarded $180,250 to purchase a new vehicle, upfitting and additional safety equipment to better provide for the safety of residents, especially during emergencies and community events.
• Indiana County is receiving $25,067 to purchase and implement body-worn cameras for the Indiana County Sheriff’s Office to enhance transparency, accountability and officer safety.
• Loyalhanna Township, on behalf of the Saltsburg Volunteer Fire Department, is receiving $132,328 to purchase a base station and 25 portable radios to update their emergency communications and improve emergency services in Saltsburg Borough, and Conemaugh and Loyalhanna townships.
• Rayne Township is being awarded $1 million to replace the bridge carrying Wynkoop Road over Pine Creek with a new precast concrete box culvert and shift the bridge opening to the east a short distance. These changes will minimize the impacts to the railroad embankment during construction, reduce the curvature of the stream and allow for safe demolition of the existing bridge.
• Saltsburg Borough is receiving:
  • $55,182, on behalf of Towns People Inc. to remove the old siding of the Altman Feed Mill and replace it with new cedar siding on the west face of the mill in the hopes of attracting business growth and boosting local tourism.
  • $181,004 for window replacement, electrical lighting and fixture upgrades for the Salt Community Center as well as reconstructing the parking lot and installing ADA parking.
  • $63,425 to purchase a John Deere ZTrak, a John Deere Sub Compact, an iron mount side discharge, a quick hitch front blade, a heavy-duty rotary boom, and a Kubota V series. This new municipal equipment will replace their 14-year-old riding mower and their 20-year-old Kubota mower both of which break down frequently and have reached the end of their useful life.
• South Mahoning Township is receiving $869,959 to resurface Sinktown, Rossmoyne, Pearce, Redding Run and Mahoning roads, all of which are high traffic areas and have prematurely aged and need maintenance.

Edwards Moving and Rigging will start transporting the equipment around 9:00 this morning from Schenley in Armstrong County.  It will go towards Leechburg and Apollo before taking Route 66 to Delmont, then turn off onto Route 22 moving towards Blairsville.  The first pull-off will be at 5:00 PM near Blairsville for equipment installation.  Movement is expected to resume at 7:00 PM and crews will close Route 22 East three miles west of Blairsville from 7:00 PM until the end of the travel day at Midnight.  The rest of this trip will be made tomorrow starting at 9:00.

HCG officials say between now and October, Edwards will transport fifteen heat recovery steam generators.  They weigh between 228,000 and 438,000 pounds and are being shipped on specialized modular trailers.

Travel dates and times may change due to weather conditions.  State police and other officials will be on hand to help with traffic, but HCG is asking people to remain alert and follow the directions of traffic control personnel and give the crews enough room to work.

Two people were charged with public intoxication for an incident last Friday in Indiana Borough.  Police said 21-year-old Gima Ndasi of York and 20-year-old Megan Hoak of Pottsville were found highly intoxicated in the 300 block of South 5^th Street.  The two were placed under arrest and cited for public drunkenness while Hoak was also cited for underage drinking.  The two were released to a sober adult.

The rear-end chain-reaction crash was just west of Summit Church and involved four vehicles.  One of them was on fire in a yard with a potential exposure to the house nearby.  No one was trapped in their vehicles and four were taken to the hospital for treatment.  Their conditions have not been released.  Crews were able to quickly bring the fire under control.  No word as to what sparked the vehicle fire.  Citizens Ambulance, Indiana Borough and State Police assisted on the scene.

The other major call of the day was an electrical fire at 10:15 PM on Washington Street.  The homeowner noticed smoke coming from a light in the kitchen.  The light had overheated and started to ignite the surrounding wood blocking and insulation had started to smolder.  Crews were able to access the roof area and were able to move insulation away from the heat source.  The fire did not extend beyond the electrical circuitry.  Officials said it was a “close call” but the homeowner was awake at the time, noticed the problem and called 911 immediately.

The first was on Tipperary Road in Pine Township at 10:10 AM with Pine Township and Nicktown fire departments responding along with state police and Veterans Ambulance Service.  The other was at 11:39 last night on Route 286 West in Black Lick Township.  Aultman, Black Lick and Blairsville fire fighters were on scene along with Citizens’ Ambulance.

Details on the crashes have not been released.

A physical rescue was also reported yesterday at 6:54 PM on Rustic Lodge Road in White Township.  Indiana Fire Association members were sent out at the time.

The note appears at the end of an interview with Thomas Matthew Crooks’ father.  Crooks killed one person during the rally, former volunteer fire chief Corey Comperatore, and critically injured two others who survived.  Security personnel killed Crooks shortly after he fired on the crowd.

The company’s outage map currently shows 588 of its members in White Township and another 286 in Center Township are waking up without electricity.  The outages were reported at 7:32 this morning.  REA Energy has not listed a reason for the outage, but says that power will be restored at 11:36 this morning at the latest.

Penelec has no outages reported in either township, but there is a minor outage reported in Black Lick and Burrell Townships, affecting 11 customers over those areas.

The convoy carrying the equipment that is 205 feet long, 17 feet wide and weighs up to 381 tons will start tomorrow morning.  This will be the second delay for the project, but Edwards Moving and Rigging HR Director Timothy Ernst said the two delays were to make sure that everything from permits to the path were ready.

The trip will start tomorrow at 9:00 AM, leaving Schenley and headed to Leechburg and Apollo to Delmont via Route 66, then it will turn off on Route 22 and continue towards the Indiana-Westmoreland County line.  The convoy will then pull off at a staging area and install more equipment before moving on at 7:00 PM.  As the “superload” crosses the bridge over the Conemaugh River, drivers to the East of the county line should expect a rolling slowdown.  The following day, the superload will continue its run at 9:00 AM onto Campbell’s Mill Road to Blacklick Road to the Homer City power plant.

All vehicles travelling on Route 22/119 west of the Indiana County line will detour using Bairdstown Road/West Market Street to East Market Street/Old William Penn Highway to the Route 22/119 interchange.  Traffic will also be detoured at the Route 119 intersection with Campbells Mill Road south to Route 22 West.  For those in the Black Lick area, drivers will proceed across Route 22 West then north on Route 217 to Blacklick Road.

While the speed is anticipated at 10-25 miles an hour at its fastest,  Ernst said that it will very slowly, especially as they travel across some of the bridges en route.

Drivers are reminded that there will be traffic slowdowns and in some areas, they will not be able to pass the superload, so detours will have to be considered.

PUC Chairman Steve DeFrank said in his announcement that the state is at an “energy crossroads” and that while data centers are bringing significant opportunities, it will also increase energy demand and that, in turn, will have serious reliability risks on the electricity grid.  The commission also released a report from Synapse Energy Logistics that says based on current load forecasts from regional power grid operator PJM and assuming no additional policy actions, the regional grid will not be able to meet PJM’s reliability planning standard from 2027 to 2030.

In his own statement, Senator Pittman said that the problem is not just from growing demand but from a lack of supply, which was hampered by the state’s involvement in the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative.  He said that “while we cannot correct the harm from past decisions by the Executive Branch, we must come together to find ways to support hard-working families across Pennsylvania by making energy more affordable now and in the future.”  He cited both the future Homer City energy campus and the refiring of Three-Mile Island as examples of how data centers can and should identify their own power sources.  Pittman added that all power sources should be considered to help strengthen the state’s energy grid.

A man from Gipsy in faces charges of criminal mischief for an incident at the Indiana Borough Parking Garage on September 5^th.  Indiana Borough Police say that a security camera caught Kenneth Raspe at 5:04 AM breaking one of the mechanical exit gates at the facility.

The latest statistics from the department show 99 new cases over the last seven days, bringing the total to 693 total cases in Pennsylvania, with 681 of them reported since April when an outbreak of the disease started in Lancaster County.  Lancaster county has 296 cases reported for the year.

No new cases were reported in Indiana over the past few days, with that number holding steady at 11.  Jefferson County has 28 cases, Clearfield has 19, while Armstrong, Cambria and Westmoreland counties have one case apiece.

Since the start of the year, 133 people have been hospitalized since the start of the year.

While River Valley is still sending some students to ICTC, they have not paid the annual fees that other sending schools have to pay.  This stems from a vote in 2024 for the district to leave the group of member schools.  Currently, River Valley is appealing a court ruling that would require the district to remain in the consortium until 2037.  Walter Schroth, who represents Indiana School District at the ICTC Board, said that last year’s fees come to over $460,000, and if the trend continues this year, it would mean a substantial loss to the technical school.

He said the ICTC board is considering legal action, but could not go into details as it is a legal matter.

In other business, the board welcomed this year’s group of Fulbright Scholars, and they also had a presentation of State House Proclamations from State Representative Jim Struzzi for Alex Gillham and Faith Gonchur for saving the life of Parker Brocious earlier this year at Mack Park Pool.

(Photo courtesy Rob Heinrich)

The suspect went into the store on Route 119 South and took a bottle of wine valued at $15 without paying for it.  He was initially described as a 20-30 year-old white man with medium length dark hair.  Store security was able to get a picture of the suspect.

(Photo provided by State Police)

Anyone with information on the theft can call state police at 724-357-1960 and ask for Trooper Rutkowski.

Court documents show 42-year-old Joseph Wissinger was arrested on August 25^th at his home in Center Township.  He was wanted on two warrants:  One was issued for charges of simple assault, false imprisonment and harassment after a domestic incident at a home in Burrell Township on August 16^th.  The second was related to charges filed on August 19^th on weapons possession violations.  In that incident, Wissinger was found to have been in possession of a rifle, an altered shotgun, a handgun and various ammunition which was seized from a parked an unattended vehicle the day before.

For the weapons incident, bail was set at $100,000, while a $25,000 bail was set for the other case.

Also due for a preliminary hearing is 46-year-old Louis Bonasorte of Pittsburgh.  He was charged with accidents involving death or personal injury, failure to give information or render aid and failure to notify police for an incident on August 9^th, when 45-year-old Salvatore Lauria fell out of the passenger side window of a pickup truck and suffered a serious injury in Banks Township.  Bonasorte reportedly fled the scene but was picked up by police later on in a DUI stop. ]]> http://www.wccsradio.com/2026/09/14/preliminary-hearings-scheduled-today-for-suspect-in-false-imprsionment-case-weapons-case/feed/ 0 http://www.wccsradio.com/2026/09/14/29th-annual-hoodlebug-festival-held-sunday-in-homer-city/ http://www.wccsradio.com/2026/09/14/29th-annual-hoodlebug-festival-held-sunday-in-homer-city/#respond Mon, 14 Sep 2026 10:26:16 +0000 Josh Widdowson 2026-09-14T12:59:05+00:00 https://d1996.cms.socastsrm.com/?p=1377495 The rain came to an end just in time for the 29^th annual Hoodlebug Festival in Homer City on Sunday.

Penny Perman with the festival said that it was the “perfect day” for the festival once again.

At the traditional flag-raising ceremony, a moment of silence was held to commemorate the 25^th anniversary of the tragedy of September 11^th, 2001.  This year’s event included a parade themed to America’s 250^th anniversary, and included performances by the Homer-Center Marching Band and the Indiana County Fife and Drum Corps.

Only one change was needed due to the weather.  As there was a lot of rain that came down on Saturday, the duck race was modified to a random draw.

The festival was honored for it’s 29th year with an official proclamation from the Indiana County Commissioners, which was presented by Commissioner Bonni Dunlap at the festival.

(Penny Perman (left) and Sherry Renosky (right) are joined by Commissioner Bonni Dunlap (center) for a proclamation celebrating the 29th Hoodlebug Festival.  Photo by Mark Bertig)

To watch the parade and proclamation footage, click on the video players below.

Officials say a 40-year-old woman from Jefferson County died from measles complications over the weekend.  The Jefferson County Coroner’s Office said no other information about the woman will be released and called her death an unfortunate reminder that measles can be a serious and potentially life-threatening disease.  The Pennsylvania Department of Health said it is conducting a review of the case and will provide the public with updated information when it becomes available.

The latest statistics on the number of measles cases across the state is expected to be updated later today. ]]> http://www.wccsradio.com/2026/09/14/measles-related-death-reported-in-jefferson-county/feed/ 0 http://www.wccsradio.com/2026/09/13/superload-delivery-delayed-by-one-day/ http://www.wccsradio.com/2026/09/13/superload-delivery-delayed-by-one-day/#respond Sun, 13 Sep 2026 08:30:28 +0000 Todd Marino 2026-09-14T16:07:51+00:00 https://d1996.cms.socastsrm.com/?p=1377455 UPDATE: Edwards Moving and Rigging have announced a further delay in the “superload” movement, delaying the start until Wednesday, September 16th.  A representative with the company said it was a “normal delay” and will keep the public informed via social media on the progress.

WHAT WAS FIRST REPORTED:

The first of the “superload” trucks that will carry equipment to the Homer City Energy Campus starting this week will now leave the Schenley dock in Allegheny County on Tuesday, not on Monday as originally planned.  The delay is for further refinement of the two-day route to Indiana County.

In all, 53 rigs, each of them 205 feet long, 17 feet wide, and as high as seventeen feet tall, will be bringing the loads between now and January.  The journey for the turbine components began at the GE Vernova facility in Belfort France, crossing over the Atlantic to Mobile, Alabama, then to the Tennessee-Tombigbee Waterway, and the Mississippi, Ohio, and Allegheny rivers.

Edwards Moving and Rigging expects to leave the dock at 9:30 AM Tuesday and arrive in Leechburg, a little over six miles away, at 10:30.  After rounding the tight curve in Leechburg, the journey will continue on to Delmont via Route 66, then onto Route 22 through New Alexandria and Blairsville, and onto Route 119 North, turning at the light in Black Lick onto Power Plant Road.  Top speed is expected to be around ten miles per hour, and there will be rolling traffic closures.

State police public information officer Trooper Clifford Greenfield says escorts will be with the rigs every step of the way to ensure safety and security and monitor the efforts to lift overhead wires and traffic signals. ]]> http://www.wccsradio.com/2026/09/13/superload-delivery-delayed-by-one-day/feed/ 0 http://www.wccsradio.com/2026/09/13/indiana-purchase-line-boards-to-meet-river-valley-to-reopen-saltsburg-campus/ http://www.wccsradio.com/2026/09/13/indiana-purchase-line-boards-to-meet-river-valley-to-reopen-saltsburg-campus/#respond Sun, 13 Sep 2026 08:25:29 +0000 Todd Marino 2026-09-13T08:25:29+00:00 https://d1996.cms.socastsrm.com/?p=1377453 The Indiana Area school board on Monday will work on a variety of topics, spending a good portion of their meeting on personnel.  Included among the discussion will be extra duty assignments, both for computer mediated instructors and for head coaches and their assistants.  Head coach positions will be filled for boys basketball, wrestling, winter track, swimming & diving, and rifle.  Coordinator positions will be considered for Senior High and Junior High cheerleaders, and for Student Government.

Prior to the full board meeting, the Academic & Extracurricular Committee will meet, at 5:30, and the Policy & Personnel Committee will meet at 6:30, with discussion on a Measles Response Plan and an update on pest management procedures and a Bud Bug Response Plan.

Purchase Line’s board on Monday will consider multiple personnel moves, including coaches and assistants.  That includes a head baseball coach and a head track & field coach.  There is also a lengthy list of policy updates to consider.

River Valley’s board will meet on Wednesday.  The district’s Saltsburg campus will reopen Monday after laboratory results did not turn up any evidence of a widespread mold problem there.  Indoor samples showed very low or non-detectable fungal concentrations, substantially below baseline levels.  There was one isolated, extremely low-level detection of mold in the LGI Room at the STEAM Academy, which is where board meetings are held, so access to that room will be restricted and remediation will be utilized.

At Saltsburg Elementary, testing showed elevated moisture in several classrooms so the dehumidifiers will continue their work.  River Valley will also do some outside work on drainage and grading to improve runoff.

The directive comes amid “growing concern about the balance between rapidly increasing electricity demand and the resources available for (PJM Enterprises) to serve that demand.”  PJM’e energy auction in July resulted in a forecast of a shortfall of 6,831 megawatts in the 2028-29 delivery year.

The PUC ordered its  Law Bureau and Bureau of Technical Utility Services to prepare a tentative order outlining proposed changes for the October 1^st public meeting of the PUC, with a final order up for consideration at the January 27^th meeting.

Meanwhile, the PUC also ordered the creation of a “Ratemaking Working Group” to explore “potential improvement to longstanding ratemaking procedures.”

The agency says it wants to examine the “rapidly changing landscape that includes inflation, customer arrearages, supply chain constraints, infrastructure needs, data center development and electric reliability concerns.”

The Valier Coal Yard in Jefferson County charged breach of contract over a renegotiated deal reached when the power plant was in bankruptcy.  It claims its coal was refused by the power plant, but the plant countered that the quality and/or quantity of the coal fell below the contracted amount.  Indiana County Court found some merit in each claim and Judge Thomas Bianco ordered a settlement that incorporated the damages each had incurred.  The end result was an adjusted judgement in the power plant’s favor for $167,766.74.

The coal yard is asking the Supreme Court for the right to appeal the Superior Court decision.

PARTIAL TEXT OF THE COURT’S DECISION:

“The December 11, 202[5] Jury Verdict of $143,558 in [Homer City’s] favor and against [Appellant] is hereby MOLDED to add prejudgment interest in the amount of $67,208.74, resulting in a
total jury award in favor of [Homer City] and against [Appellant] of $210,766.74. The Jury Verdict entered on December 11, 2024 is hereby further MOLDED by setting off the jury award of $43,000
to [Appellant] against the molded jury award to [Homer City] of $210,766.74 resulting in a single total jury award in favor of [Homer City] and against [Appellant] of $167,766.74.”

Police said that between midnight and 10 AM on September 11th, someone took a homemade wood folding game table from a home.  The table has the design of the IUP Basketball court on the top.

Anyone with information on the theft can call police at 724-349-2121. ]]> http://www.wccsradio.com/2026/09/12/indiana-borough-police-investigating-theft-on-friday/feed/ 0 http://www.wccsradio.com/2026/09/12/flood-watch-to-start-at-noon-today/ http://www.wccsradio.com/2026/09/12/flood-watch-to-start-at-noon-today/#respond Sat, 12 Sep 2026 11:52:35 +0000 Josh Widdowson 2026-09-12T11:52:35+00:00 https://d1996.cms.socastsrm.com/?p=1377439

The advisory will remain in place until 1:00 tomorrow morning for Indiana, Westmoreland, Armstrong and Jefferson Counties.  Excessive rainfall expected today could cause some flash flooding in low-lying and flood prone areas along with creeks, rivers and streams.  After the initial storms late this morning and early in the afternoon, a more widespread push of precipitation is expected.  The NWS advises people to monitor future weather forecasts and be prepared to take action should a flash flood warning be issued.

Stay with us on-air and online for the latest from AccuWeather. ]]> http://www.wccsradio.com/2026/09/12/flood-watch-to-start-at-noon-today/feed/ 0 http://www.wccsradio.com/2026/09/12/pa-department-of-health-notes-uptick-in-measles-outbreak/ http://www.wccsradio.com/2026/09/12/pa-department-of-health-notes-uptick-in-measles-outbreak/#respond Sat, 12 Sep 2026 10:46:07 +0000 Josh Widdowson 2026-09-12T10:46:07+00:00 https://d1996.cms.socastsrm.com/?p=1377436

The department reports that as of yesterday, 676 cases have been confirmed in Pennsylvania for this year, with 664 of them since April when the outbreak reportedly began in Lancaster County.  Indiana County’s case count has increased to 11 since last week.  In surrounding counties Jefferson County has 26 cases, Armstrong , Cambria and Westmoreland Counties each have one and Clearfield County has 16.

Lancaster still has the highest number of cases reported this year with 295.

According to the department’s dashboard, there have been only two measles-related deaths in the state, and 123 people have been hospitalized.

Officials say that the best way to protect yourself against measles is to get vaccinated.  State health officials have administered nearly 4,300 MMR vaccinations at 130 pop-up vaccination clinics in the affected communities since the outbreak began in late April. ]]> http://www.wccsradio.com/2026/09/12/pa-department-of-health-notes-uptick-in-measles-outbreak/feed/ 0 http://www.wccsradio.com/2026/09/12/psp-release-stats-for-labor-day-weekend/ http://www.wccsradio.com/2026/09/12/psp-release-stats-for-labor-day-weekend/#respond Sat, 12 Sep 2026 10:45:00 +0000 Josh Widdowson 2026-09-12T10:45:00+00:00 https://d1996.cms.socastsrm.com/?p=1377434

Troopers were out in full force from September 4^th to the 7^th.  During that time, officers investigated 790 crashes, 30 more than Labor Day 2025.  In those crashes, three people were killed in three fatal crashes.  None of the fatal crashes were DUI related, but out of the total number of crashes, 67 of them were related to DUI.  That’s down from last year, when seven people were killed in seven fatal crashes.  There was an increase in the number of injury-related crashes, going up from 129 in 2025 to 152 this year.  Police arrested 450 people on charges of DUI.

As far as other offenses, troopers issued 6447 speeding tickets, 770 seat belt citations, 84 child safety seat citations and 18,101 other tickets.

Those statistics are for incidents or enforcements investigated by state police and do not include those investigated by other law enforcement agencies. ]]> http://www.wccsradio.com/2026/09/12/psp-release-stats-for-labor-day-weekend/feed/ 0 http://www.wccsradio.com/2026/09/11/indiana-borough-police-investigating-hit-and-run-8/ http://www.wccsradio.com/2026/09/11/indiana-borough-police-investigating-hit-and-run-8/#respond Fri, 11 Sep 2026 18:37:49 +0000 Matt Lewis 2026-09-11T18:37:49+00:00 https://d1996.cms.socastsrm.com/?p=1377404

Indiana Borough Police are investigating a hit and run that happened earlier this week.

On Tuesday, police responded to and investigated a “non-reportable” hit and run accident that happened in the 800 block of Oak Street. According to officials, one vehicle was driving East on Oak Street and struck a parked car near 8^th Street.

Witnesses reported the car backing up and leaving immediately after the incident.

The actor’s vehicle is described as an SUV that is medium-brown in color and has chrome around the windows.

Police are continuing to investigate the incident.

]]> http://www.wccsradio.com/2026/09/11/indiana-borough-police-investigating-hit-and-run-8/feed/ 0 http://www.wccsradio.com/2026/09/11/iup-holds-9-11-ceremony/ http://www.wccsradio.com/2026/09/11/iup-holds-9-11-ceremony/#respond Fri, 11 Sep 2026 17:29:50 +0000 Josh Widdowson 2026-09-12T08:51:47+00:00 https://d1996.cms.socastsrm.com/?p=1377405 IUP held its traditional ceremony to commemorate the attacks of September 11^th, 2001 in the Oak Grove earlier today.

The ceremonies not only paid tribute to the over 2997 people who died on that day, but IUP President Dr. Michael Driscoll said it also was a tribute to three others who died who were university alumni.

Army Lt. Colonel Laura Hamilton, the chair of IUP’s department of Military Science commented on the fact that an entire generation is learning about 9/11 through history books.

The keynote speaker was 1980 IUP Graduate and Retired Army Major General Leslie Purser, who said it was always important to remember the events of that day.

To watch the ceremony, click the video player below.

District officials initially said that they initially received a report on the Safe2Say system that required investigation and they decided to go to remote learning for the Armstrong Jr.-Sr. high only today.  District officials now say that the situation involved did not take place on school property, and no other district buildings were affected.  Law enforcement officials said that there is no threat to the building.  School will proceed on Monday and tonight’s football game against Kiski will also go as scheduled.

They wanted to thank the law enforcement officials that helped out with the investigation.

The crash was reported at 7:02 AM by Indiana County 911, who sent Blairsville and Black Lick fire departments and Blairsville police to the scene.  According to police, Katie Betz of Ligonier was going north on South Walnut Street when her vehicle went over the curb and went three yards before hitting a utility pole.  She was treated on-scene by Citizen’s Ambulance.

The investigation is ongoing.

Students have been on remote learning programs since late August as the district had identified mold concerns in the building.  Acting Superintendent Regina Geesey said that test results provided to the district yesterday showed very low or non-detectable fungal concentrations in the building.

The report did identify one isolated extremely low-level detection of mold in the STEAM campus’ LGI room where school board meetings are held.  As a precaution, access to that room will be restricted. Remediation will occur, and the room will not be utilized until follow-up testing reveals it is safe.

While elevated moisture is still detected in some of the Saltsburg classrooms, dehumidifiers will still be used and areas will be cleaned as recommended.  The district will also evaluate exterior drainage and grading to improve runoff.

Geesey said in her statement that “While the results do not indicate a widespread mold problem, we will continue to address the moisture concerns, complete the recommended follow-up, and take appropriate preventative measures to maintain a healthy learning environment for our students and staff.”

In a post on the district’s Facebook page, representatives with the school said that yesterday evening, a threat was reported through the district’s Safe2Say system.  Law enforcement was immediately notified and are actively investigating.

As the situation is not yet resolved, the district decided to transition to remote learning for today out of an abundance of caution.  It does not affect any of the other schools in the district.

People are advised to go to the district’s website for information on remote learning procedures.

Local commemorations of the events of September 11, 2001 are planned for today.  They include IUP’s traditional program at the Oak Grove on Campus at 11:10 this morning.  Speakers for this year’s ceremonies include IUP president Dr. Michael Driscoll and Retired Army Major General Leslie Purser, a 1980 IUP graduate and decorated combat veteran with 37 years of military service.  Army Lt. Colonel Laura Hamilton, the chair of IUP’s department of Military Science will serve as the master of ceremonies.  There will also be music from the IUP Wind Ensemble.  The ceremony will also serve as a remembrance of three IUP Alumni who died in the terror attacks: William Moskal, William Sugra and Donald Jones.

As part of the university’s tribute, the newly-restored Sutton Hall Bell will toll six times on campus this morning at times that coincide with the plane crashes and the times the World Trade Center towers fell.

Tonight, area first responders will hold their own tribute with a memorial stair climb at the Indiana County Public Safety Academy on Fire Academy Road in Homer City.  That starts at 5:00 PM.  All are welcome to join firefighters, police and EMTs to honor those who were killed that day by climbing the tower at the Public Safety Academy. ]]> http://www.wccsradio.com/2026/09/11/iup-first-responders-to-hold-9-11-commemoration-ceremonies-today/feed/ 0 http://www.wccsradio.com/2026/09/11/suspect-in-essex-house-break-in-due-in-court-for-sentencing-today/ http://www.wccsradio.com/2026/09/11/suspect-in-essex-house-break-in-due-in-court-for-sentencing-today/#respond Fri, 11 Sep 2026 10:23:43 +0000 Josh Widdowson 2026-09-11T10:23:43+00:00 https://d1996.cms.socastsrm.com/?p=1377362

Court documents show that on August 7^th, 50-year-old Andrew Scott Dunkle of Indiana pleaded guilty to burglary and possession of an instrument of crime.  This was in connection with an incident in November 4^th of last year at the apartment complex in the 1300 block of Oakland Avenue.  Officers were sent there at 3:00 PM for a possible burglary in progress and found Dunkle and Matthew Strotman leaving the facility.  The two were taken into custody, and police also recovered previously cut copper piping along with a gas generator and cutting tools.

Strotman pleaded guilty to similar charges and will be sentenced on October 30^th.

Dunkle also faces two counts of burglary for another case from September of last year.  Both hearings will be in front of Indiana County Judge Gina Force. ]]> http://www.wccsradio.com/2026/09/11/suspect-in-essex-house-break-in-due-in-court-for-sentencing-today/feed/ 0 http://www.wccsradio.com/2026/09/11/state-police-charge-two-people-from-rossiter-in-domestic-incident/ http://www.wccsradio.com/2026/09/11/state-police-charge-two-people-from-rossiter-in-domestic-incident/#respond Fri, 11 Sep 2026 10:21:10 +0000 Josh Widdowson 2026-09-11T10:21:10+00:00 https://d1996.cms.socastsrm.com/?p=1377359

State police from the Punxsutawney barracks were sent to a home on Walter Long Road in Rossiter on September 9^th at 10:06 AM and heard from the two victims in this case, a 26-year-old man and a 32-year-old woman, both from Rossiter.  It was determined by police that both of them engaged in physical contact during the incident.  Both have been charged with harassment with physical contact. ]]> http://www.wccsradio.com/2026/09/11/state-police-charge-two-people-from-rossiter-in-domestic-incident/feed/ 0 http://www.wccsradio.com/2026/09/11/historical-society-jimmy-stewart-museum-to-receive-state-grants/ http://www.wccsradio.com/2026/09/11/historical-society-jimmy-stewart-museum-to-receive-state-grants/#respond Fri, 11 Sep 2026 10:19:52 +0000 Josh Widdowson 2026-09-11T10:19:52+00:00 https://d1996.cms.socastsrm.com/?p=1377356

This is part of nearly $4 million awarded to museums and historical societies across 60 counties.  To qualify, eligible museums must maintain an annual operating budget of over $100,000 excluding capital and in-kind contributions and employ at least one full-time professional or an approved equivalent.

The two entities in Indiana County that will receive funding include the Jimmy Stewart Museum, who will receive $6000 and the Historical and Genealogical Society of Indiana County, who will receive $9500. ]]> http://www.wccsradio.com/2026/09/11/historical-society-jimmy-stewart-museum-to-receive-state-grants/feed/ 0 http://www.wccsradio.com/2026/09/10/2026-love-of-life-campaign-kicks-off-thursday-night/ http://www.wccsradio.com/2026/09/10/2026-love-of-life-campaign-kicks-off-thursday-night/#respond Fri, 11 Sep 2026 00:53:45 +0000 Josh Widdowson 2026-09-11T00:53:54+00:00 https://d1996.cms.socastsrm.com/?p=1377348 Thursday night was the kickoff for the 2026 Love of Life campaign to benefit IRMC’s Comprehensive Breast Center.

This year marks the 22nd campaign to raise funds to help ensure the hospital has the latest technology available to diagnose and treat breast cancer.  The money raised this year will be part of a multi-year effort to purchase a new 3D mammography machine for the center.  IRMC Healthcare Foundation Executive Director Heather Reed talked about the importance of these machines.

The keynote speakers were cancer survivor Karen Krejocic and her daughter Celeste Keefe.  Krejocic said she initially felt her story was not as important as others.

Keefe talked about the importance of getting screened early.

Also during the kickoff event at the home of Christine Toretti, it was announced that Dr. Nazneen Billamoria will become the new director of the IRMC Comprehensive Breast Center.  She said it was a great honor to be named the new leader.

The next major fundraiser for the Love of Life campaign is the annual 5k run on October 17th at 9 AM in Downtown Indiana.  If you want to enter the run, you can register at www.loveoflife5k.com.  To donate directly to the campaign, you can go to www.irmc.org/foundation/ways-to-give or call 724-357-8053.

(From L to R: IRMC Healthcare foundation chairman Joe Reschini, IRMC/PMCN Board of Directors Vice Chair Laurie Kuzneski, IRMC Comprehensive Breast Center Director Dr. Nazneen Billamoria, keynote speakers Karen Krejocic and Celeste Keefe, IRMC Healthcare Foundation executive director Heather Reed, IRMC Medical Staff President and Mountains Health Care System Oncology Service Line Chair Dr. Dan Clark, Dr. Margaret Clark and IRMC President and CEO Steve Wolfe.  Photo by Josh Widdowson)

WTAE-TV reported that the walkout was prompted by a meeting between company officials and Operating Engineers Local 66 about changes to workers’ schedules including a reduction of hours and pay.  On Tuesday, workers returned after solutions were presented, but night-shift operator and steward Misael Vazquez claimed that he was fired as others were allowed to get back to work.

Kiewit would not speak on any personnel matters, but their vice president of Corporate Communication Bob Kula did talk about the working relationship they have with all the unions involved.

The company added that they remain in close contact with the Operating Engineers Local 66 members and leadership as they continue their work.

Shawn Steffee with the Boilermakers Local said that the walkout was done by “a few rogue members” of the Operating Engineers union.  He says there is no labor dispute with the unions and Kiewit and they look forward to completing the work on the power plant and hopefully the data centers in the future.

Here is the complete statement from Kiewit Vice President of Corporate Communication Bob Kula:

Kiewit Power Constructors Co. does not comment on personnel matters. We have great working relationships and open lines of communication with Operating Engineers Local 66 and the other unions involved in the construction of the Homer City Redevelopment Project. Regarding your inquiry, we remain in close contact with the Local 66 workers and union leadership, especially as they continue to perform important work on this job. We value and appreciate all of our strong labor partners. ]]> http://www.wccsradio.com/2026/09/10/kiewit-issues-response-on-walkout-last-friday-at-homer-city-generation-site/feed/ 0 http://www.wccsradio.com/2026/09/10/homer-center-elementary-students-start-school-year-after-delay/ http://www.wccsradio.com/2026/09/10/homer-center-elementary-students-start-school-year-after-delay/#respond Thu, 10 Sep 2026 10:26:57 +0000 Josh Widdowson 2026-09-10T10:26:57+00:00 https://d1996.cms.socastsrm.com/?p=1377330

On August 22^nd, the district announced that aspergillus spores were found in some of the elementary classrooms, saying that this was due to the higher-than-normal humidity levels this summer and a power outage that caused a reset malfunction in the building’s chiller.  While initially delayed until September 1^st, the entire wing of the elementary school was cleaned as a precaution.  After a delay for all students, middle and high school students started class on September 1^st while the elementary grade levels saw further delays.

Students return after teachers came back to set up their classrooms on Tuesday and paraeducators returned Wednesday.  No word yet on how the missed days for the elementary levels will be made up. ]]> http://www.wccsradio.com/2026/09/10/homer-center-elementary-students-start-school-year-after-delay/feed/ 0 http://www.wccsradio.com/2026/09/10/restored-iup-sutton-hall-bell-to-ring-on-9-11/ http://www.wccsradio.com/2026/09/10/restored-iup-sutton-hall-bell-to-ring-on-9-11/#respond Thu, 10 Sep 2026 10:26:05 +0000 Josh Widdowson 2026-09-10T10:26:05+00:00 https://d1996.cms.socastsrm.com/?p=1377327 th.

The bell came to IUP in 1875 during the first year of Indiana Normal School.  It has been restored with an automatic, magnetized ringer striker.  The bell itself is engraved with the date it came to the campus.  It rang until the late 1990s when an auto ringer installed on the bell deteriorated.  Restoration was completed in 2025 with the university working closely with The Verdin Company of Cincinnati.

The bell will toll six times tomorrow at times that have historical significance for the day: at 8:26 AM and 9:03 AM when the two planes hit the World Trade Center in New York, at 9:37 when a plane crashed into the Pentagon, at 9:59 AM when the first of the World Trade Center Towers collapsed, at 10:03 AM when Flight 93 crashed in Shanksville, PA, and 10:28 AM when the second tower collapsed.

IUP will hold its traditional 9-11 commemoration ceremony at 11:10 on Friday near the memorial in the Oak Grove.  Speakers will include IUP President Dr. Michael Driscoll, Army Lt. Colonel Laura Hamilton and Retired Army Major General and Civilian Aide to the Secretary of the U.S. Army Leslie Purser from the class of 1980.  Music will be provided by IUP’s wind ensemble. ]]> http://www.wccsradio.com/2026/09/10/restored-iup-sutton-hall-bell-to-ring-on-9-11/feed/ 0 http://www.wccsradio.com/2026/09/09/county-planning-commission-tables-amazon-data-center-project/ http://www.wccsradio.com/2026/09/09/county-planning-commission-tables-amazon-data-center-project/#respond Thu, 10 Sep 2026 00:43:29 +0000 Josh Widdowson 2026-09-10T00:47:58+00:00 https://d1996.cms.socastsrm.com/?p=1377300 Wednesday night, the Indiana County Planning Commission voted to table the application for Amazon Web Services to build data centers in Center and Black Lick Townships.

Nearly 100 members of the public were in attendance for the meeting in Courtroom 1 of the Indiana County Courthouse.  Before a presentation from AWS, members of the public voiced their opinions on the proposed project.  Many of those who spoke were against the project for various reasons ranging from environmental concerns to transparaency to the priorities of a major corporation.

After a presentation from AWS that detailed how they would deal with certain issues like sound and water pollution, along with reiterating that the data centers would generate between 1500 and 2000 jobs, the board decided to table the application from AWS, triggering a 90-day period where the board will thoroughly investigate the matter.  Board Chair Laurie Lafontaine said during the meeting that they want to use any and all resources in reaching a final decision.

To watch the full meeting coverage from Wednesday night, click on the player below.

The ordinance defines junk motor vehicles, as well as parameters for how they can be stored on a resident’s property. Those for the ordinance sited safety and health concerns surrounding vehicles sitting for long periods of time, while those against it say that it infringes on personal property rights and affects small businesses.

Township Manager Chris Anderson says that the ordinance will be put into effect after five days.

The supervisors also approved a stormwater resolution concerning maintenance of the water systems at the former site of Rustic Lodge.

]]> http://www.wccsradio.com/2026/09/09/white-township-adopts-junk-vehicle-ordinance/feed/ 0 http://www.wccsradio.com/2026/09/09/commissioners-hear-from-public-on-potential-aws-data-centers/ http://www.wccsradio.com/2026/09/09/commissioners-hear-from-public-on-potential-aws-data-centers/#respond Wed, 09 Sep 2026 17:00:11 +0000 Josh Widdowson 2026-09-09T17:00:11+00:00 https://d1996.cms.socastsrm.com/?p=1377267 At a meeting this morning, the Indiana County Commissioners heard from several members of the public speaking out against possible A.I. data centers from Amazon Web Services (AWS)

The issues raised included transparency and the environment.

The Indiana County Planning Commission will be taking up the potential data center sites at a meeting at 5:00 this afternoon.

In other business, the County Commissioners approved a contract to demolish the Carriage House and office building on Oakland Avenue.  The $342,000 contract will go to Ritenour and Sons construction company out of Connellsville.  The expected completion date is December of this year.

The project is being seen as a significant economic engine for Indiana County, with Amazon Web Services anticipating 1500 to 2000 full time jobs with wages between $80,000 and $100,000, and the company is committed to investing in local talent.  In an interview yesterday on Indiana in the Morning, AWS’  Principal in Economic Development, Global Infrastructure Expansion Becky Ford said that today’s meeting is just the start of the process for the approval of the plans for the sites.

Opponents to the plan say they are concerned with water and noise pollution, health concerns and concerns over the project’s transparency.

The meeting will start at 5:00 PM tonight in Courtroom 1 of the Indiana County Courthouse, with overflow areas being provided by the other courtrooms.  The meeting will also be streamed on our Facebook Page and on Zoom.  The Zoom link is below:

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/82326668483

Indiana County Commissioner Bonni Dunlap said in a brief statement that if anyone receives a text message claiming their delinquent taxes need to be paid or their property will be sold, that message is a fraudulent one.  The tax claim office does not call or text property owners and any notices are in writing and mailed to them.

Any questions should be directed to the tax claims office at 724-465-3810. ]]> http://www.wccsradio.com/2026/09/09/county-officials-warn-of-text-scam/feed/ 0 http://www.wccsradio.com/2026/09/09/monroe-county-man-arrested-for-assault-other-crimes-on-monday/ http://www.wccsradio.com/2026/09/09/monroe-county-man-arrested-for-assault-other-crimes-on-monday/#respond Wed, 09 Sep 2026 10:27:36 +0000 Josh Widdowson 2026-09-09T10:27:36+00:00 https://d1996.cms.socastsrm.com/?p=1377242

Borough police say officers were sent to the 200 block of Rice Avenue for a report of an intoxicated man outside a home causing issues with other individuals.  When officers arrived, they found John DePaul of Effort and identified him as the only aggressor in the incident.  As officers took him into custody, he resisted arrest and injured an officer.

Along with the simple assault and terroristic threats, he is charged with resisting arrest, criminal mischief, misdemeanor disorderly conduct, underage consumption, harassment, and public intoxication.

He was arraigned in front of district judge Robert Bell, Sr., and was placed in Indiana County Jail in lieu of $10,000 bail.  A preliminary hearing is scheduled for September 16^th. ]]> http://www.wccsradio.com/2026/09/09/monroe-county-man-arrested-for-assault-other-crimes-on-monday/feed/ 0 http://www.wccsradio.com/2026/09/09/1377236/ http://www.wccsradio.com/2026/09/09/1377236/#respond Wed, 09 Sep 2026 10:26:39 +0000 Josh Widdowson 2026-09-09T11:09:52+00:00 https://d1996.cms.socastsrm.com/?p=1377236

Michael Karl Steffee died on Monday at the age of 84.  Born in Reading, he was in the Marine Corps from 1959 to 1965.  After an honorable discharge from the military, he joined the state police and was assigned to Troop A, and was named Trooper of the year in 1978.  He retired from the state police in 1986 and was appointed the District Judge of Homer City in April of that year after his retirement.  He was elected to the position three times until his retirement in 2001 when he was appointed a senior magisterial district judge by the PA Supreme Court, serving in that capacity until 2014.  He also served as an instructor in the Criminal Justice Training Center at Indiana University of Pennsylvania for the Lethal Weapons and Municipal Police Training Acts between 1974 and 2001.

Former Indiana County public defender Bob Dougherty called Steffee a true gentleman.

A private graveside service will be held at the Our Lady of the Assumption Cemetery.  The Bowser Funeral Home and Cremation Services in Homer City is handling the arrangements.

To view the whole obituary, click here. ]]> http://www.wccsradio.com/2026/09/09/1377236/feed/ 0 http://www.wccsradio.com/2026/09/08/indiana-borough-council-approves-zoning-map-ordinance/ http://www.wccsradio.com/2026/09/08/indiana-borough-council-approves-zoning-map-ordinance/#respond Wed, 09 Sep 2026 00:25:27 +0000 Josh Widdowson 2026-09-09T09:12:56+00:00 https://d1996.cms.socastsrm.com/?p=1377227 Tuesday night, Indiana Borough approved the update to the borough’s zoning ordinance and map.

The main change is the creation of a mixed use zone that would be a “neighborhood commercial zone” which would allow small businesses like small offices and cafes to be a part of a residential area.  Borough manager Nicole Sipos said that it’s the conclusion of a few years of work by the borough’s planning and zoning office.

In other business, advertisement of the new shade tree ordinance was postponed as the council sent it back to the committee.  Sipos said that council wants to see more details on policies and procedures.

The proposed “park” would be at 4600 Lucerne Road, and would house 140 units for people working on the Homer City Generation campus. Residents spoke passionately about a number of concerns, including traffic implications, light and noise pollution, and child safety.

Township Manager Chris Anderson says that these comments play a large role in how the commission acts.

Ultimately, the commission decided to deny the plans as they did not have enough information to act. However, The Cartesian Company and Park Group Construction are able to resubmit that plan for approval again.

The commission also gave conditional approval to the final major subdivision at 2199 Oakland Avenue. That approval is contingent upon the Department of Environmental Protection’s approval of the sanitary sewage plan. ]]> http://www.wccsradio.com/2026/09/08/white-township-planning-commission-denies-final-site-plan-for-lucerne-road/feed/ 0 http://www.wccsradio.com/2026/09/08/1377210/ http://www.wccsradio.com/2026/09/08/1377210/#respond Tue, 08 Sep 2026 15:16:21 +0000 Josh Widdowson 2026-09-08T16:06:23+00:00 https://d1996.cms.socastsrm.com/?p=1377210 Amazon Web Services is considering placing 39 data centers at the Homer City Generation campus, and earlier today, representatives with both companies discussed the details on the community impact.

The facility would bring between 1,500 and 2,000 jobs to the county, with salaries between $80,000 to $100,000.  Becky Ford, the Principal in Economic Development, Global Infrastructure Expansion with Amazon Web Services said that investments in Indiana County and Center Township would be “transformational” and unique to the Homer City campus.

One of the concerns that have been brought up by opponents of the plant was water use and making sure that water is clean when it leaves their facility.  Hessen said that while Kiewit is seen primarily as the contractor for the project, they are also the engineer and have worked on ways to clean the water that is used by the plant.

You can watch the full interview in this story in the video player below.

The thefts were reported at 12:04 PM at the storage units of Route 85 near the intersection with Route 119 in Home.  Police say unknown actors cut the locks off of two units and stole various Milwaukee Power Tools and batteries before fleeing in an unknown direction.  The investigation is continuing. ]]> http://www.wccsradio.com/2026/09/08/state-police-investigating-tool-theft-in-rayne-township/feed/ 0 http://www.wccsradio.com/2026/09/08/officials-with-homer-city-generation-aws-to-talk-details-on-data-center-plans/ http://www.wccsradio.com/2026/09/08/officials-with-homer-city-generation-aws-to-talk-details-on-data-center-plans/#respond Tue, 08 Sep 2026 10:46:31 +0000 Josh Widdowson 2026-09-08T10:46:44+00:00 https://d1996.cms.socastsrm.com/?p=1377190

According to documents for tomorrow’s meeting of Indiana County’s Office of Planning and Development, Amazon is proposing to acquire 2200 acres of property in Center and Blacklick Townships and build 39 data centers with ancillary and related operational facilities.  The buildings will be two stories and 70-feet long, and would be built over a 10-year period.  The company expects between 1,500 and 2,000 permanent jobs and salaries ranging from $80,000 to $100,000.  Amazon wishes to put forward an “appropriate Community Benefits Agreement” to mitigate the impact to the communities affected and will not seek any tax incentives on the local and county level.  The company is also looking to pay costs associated with any new electrical infrastructure needed for the data centers.

Homer City Generation CEO Cory Hessen and Principal in Economic Development, Global Infrastructure Expansion with Amazon Web Services Becky Ford will join Todd Marino for an in-depth discussion about the proposal at 9:15 this morning on Indiana in the Morning on WCCS. ]]> http://www.wccsradio.com/2026/09/08/officials-with-homer-city-generation-aws-to-talk-details-on-data-center-plans/feed/ 0 http://www.wccsradio.com/2026/09/08/new-indiana-borough-zoning-map-ordinance-up-for-final-approval/ http://www.wccsradio.com/2026/09/08/new-indiana-borough-zoning-map-ordinance-up-for-final-approval/#respond Tue, 08 Sep 2026 10:28:15 +0000 Josh Widdowson 2026-09-08T10:28:15+00:00 https://d1996.cms.socastsrm.com/?p=1377188

Both items were approved for advertisement at the borough council work session on August 18th, and they are essentially unchanged from what was put to the public at a hearing on August 4^th.  One of the major changes is the introduction of a “neighborhood commercial zone” which will allow businesses like offices and cafes to be mixed with residential areas.  This is currently prevalent on Philadelphia Street just east of the intersection with 4^th Street.  This is an effort to make the map less complicated as those businesses are currently considered “non-conforming lots”

Also on the proposed agenda are approval of amendments to the Shade Tree ordinance and approval of the Love Indiana Community Block Party from Grace Church at IRMC Park on Saturday, October 17^th from 5-7 PM.

Tonight’s meeting will be held at the George E. Hood Municipal Building at 7:00 PM. ]]> http://www.wccsradio.com/2026/09/08/new-indiana-borough-zoning-map-ordinance-up-for-final-approval/feed/ 0 http://www.wccsradio.com/2026/09/08/iup-to-celebrate-constitution-day-next-monday/ http://www.wccsradio.com/2026/09/08/iup-to-celebrate-constitution-day-next-monday/#respond Tue, 08 Sep 2026 10:27:27 +0000 Josh Widdowson 2026-09-08T10:27:27+00:00 https://d1996.cms.socastsrm.com/?p=1377186

This year’s celebration is being coordinated by the university’s Center for Civic Dialogue, and will be held next Monday, September 14^th.  The first of two events will be the annual reading of the constitution from 12:30 to 1:45 PM in front of Stapleton Library.  IUP President Dr. Michael Driscoll will start the reading, and he will be joined by other members of the university community.  This marks the 18^th year that IUP will host a reading of the constitution.

At 6:00 that day is another tradition as history faculty member John Mannard will portray James Madison during “A Chat with the Founding Father: What We Can Learn About Disagreement.”  This will be in Elkin Hall’s great room, and will be open to the public. ]]> http://www.wccsradio.com/2026/09/08/iup-to-celebrate-constitution-day-next-monday/feed/ 0 http://www.wccsradio.com/2026/09/08/virtual-plans-display-for-shelocta-truss-preservation-project-starts-today/ http://www.wccsradio.com/2026/09/08/virtual-plans-display-for-shelocta-truss-preservation-project-starts-today/#respond Tue, 08 Sep 2026 10:26:52 +0000 Josh Widdowson 2026-09-08T10:26:52+00:00 https://d1996.cms.socastsrm.com/?p=1377184

The display will put the plans for the Shelocta Truss Preservation Project in Armstrong Township so people can see the project’s status, schedule, design and right-of-way acquisition.  The project will preserve the existing structure that carries Route 56 over Crooked Creek, including painting the existing steel truss members and installing snow shield retrofits on the existing barriers.  The project is expected to start next June and will wrap up next August.

The presentation will be available until through October 4^th.   You can access it at https://www.pa.gov/agencies/penndot/projects-near-you/district-10-projects and click on Shelocta Truss Preservation on the projects list. ]]> http://www.wccsradio.com/2026/09/08/virtual-plans-display-for-shelocta-truss-preservation-project-starts-today/feed/ 0 http://www.wccsradio.com/2026/09/08/gas-prices-remain-high-after-labor-day/ http://www.wccsradio.com/2026/09/08/gas-prices-remain-high-after-labor-day/#respond Tue, 08 Sep 2026 10:25:53 +0000 Josh Widdowson 2026-09-08T10:25:53+00:00 https://d1996.cms.socastsrm.com/?p=1377182

The National Average this morning went up six cents a gallon over the last week to $4.15 and up 13 cents from last month.  Last year, gas prices were 95 cents lower across the nation.

This morning’s average in Pennsylvania is $4.30.  The statewide average was $4.25 last week and at $4.12 last month.  Last year, the PA Average was 43 cents lower.  Indiana county’s average is $4.32 today.  Among the surrounding counties, Jefferson remains the lowest at $4.24, and the highest are in both Westmoreland and Clearfield Counties at $4.35.

Gas prices this morning in Indiana Borough, White Township, Blairsville, and Clymer this morning are hovering around $4.29 and $4.39 a gallon.  Along the Route 119 Corridor in Center Township, the Sheetz on 119 and Kwik-fill are at $4.29 while Accent Fuels is at $4.19. ]]> http://www.wccsradio.com/2026/09/08/gas-prices-remain-high-after-labor-day/feed/ 0 http://www.wccsradio.com/2026/09/07/closures-in-effect-for-labor-day-6/ http://www.wccsradio.com/2026/09/07/closures-in-effect-for-labor-day-6/#respond Mon, 07 Sep 2026 10:44:53 +0000 Josh Widdowson 2026-09-07T10:44:53+00:00 https://d1996.cms.socastsrm.com/?p=1377164

As today is a federal holiday, there will be some closures in effect.  Federal, state, and local government offices are closed.  This includes county courts and PennDOT offices and driver’s license centers.  Many banks are also closed for the day, but will offer services through their apps, websites and ATMs.

The US Postal Service will not deliver any mail today, and all post offices are closed.  UPS and FedEx will not have normal delivery service today.

IndiGo is also closed for the day and will reopen on Tuesday.  Indiana County schools are closed for the day.  Libraries are also closed today. ]]> http://www.wccsradio.com/2026/09/07/closures-in-effect-for-labor-day-6/feed/ 0 http://www.wccsradio.com/2026/09/07/shed-destroyed-by-fire-on-saturday/ http://www.wccsradio.com/2026/09/07/shed-destroyed-by-fire-on-saturday/#respond Mon, 07 Sep 2026 10:42:50 +0000 Josh Widdowson 2026-09-07T10:42:50+00:00 https://d1996.cms.socastsrm.com/?p=1377162

Indiana Fire Association reported the shed fire at 8:20 PM Saturday night on South Fisher Avenue.  Fire officials said that the building was an eight by ten foot shed and was fully involved by the time the first trucks arrived.  The fire was quickly extinguished but an adjoining house did see some heat-related damage with siding melting.  The shed and its contents are a total loss.

Officials said that the homeowners were insured.  There were no reported injuries. ]]> http://www.wccsradio.com/2026/09/07/shed-destroyed-by-fire-on-saturday/feed/ 0 http://www.wccsradio.com/2026/09/06/county-planning-development-agenda-offers-amazon-data-center-details/ http://www.wccsradio.com/2026/09/06/county-planning-development-agenda-offers-amazon-data-center-details/#respond Sun, 06 Sep 2026 08:41:41 +0000 Todd Marino 2026-09-06T08:41:41+00:00 https://d1996.cms.socastsrm.com/?p=1377131 The Indiana County Office of Planning and Development will hold its regular meeting this Wednesday, and the agenda reveals new details on the long-anticipated coming of Amazon to the Homer City Generating Energy Campus.

According to the documents, Amazon proposes to acquire about 2,200 acres in Center and Blacklick townships across six properties (the Bruner, Helen, Green, West, Harvey/Gaston, and Rura sites), and construct 39 data centers with ancillary and related operational facilities.  The company anticipates 1,500 to 2,000 permanent jobs averaging between $80,000 and $100,000 in salary.

The data centers will be 70-foot long, two-story buildings and will be constructed over a ten-year period, starting with the Rura property.

Amazon promises an “appropriate Community Benefits Agreement” to mitigate community impacts and ensure tangible benefits and will not seek any tax incentives from local or county stakeholders.  It will also “pay all costs associated with any new electrical infrastructure needed for the data center campus,” and it says its operations “will support cloud computing services, and there is “existing client demand supporting construction of the full campus.”

Wednesday’s meeting will be held in Courtroom 1 at the Indiana County Courthouse at 5 PM, with overflow into other courtrooms as needed for additional attendees.

Amazon (AWS) project details:

pit100_project-narrative_082726

Sunshine notification:

https://www.icopd.org/

Zoom link:

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/82326668483

Meeting ID: 823 2666 8483

Dial by your location:  +1 305 224 1968 US

Marion Center firefighters were dispatched to set up a helicopter landing zone for an injured person at Marion Center Speedway at 10:30 PM.

And Aultman and Homer City firefighters were called to an accident at 11:19 PM on Route 286 in Center Township.

Purchase Line’s school board will also meet on Tuesday for a work session.  They normally meet on Mondays but they will delay a day due to the Labor Day holiday.

Penns Manor’s board will meet on Wednesday.

Also this week, Homer-Center plans to start the school year for its elementary students, who have been awaiting the remediation of the mold issue in their building.  The plan for now is for teachers to have in-service days on Tuesday and Wednesday, teachers’ aides to join them on Wednesday, and school to start on Thursday.  High school students started last week.

Total electricity consumption actually decreased by .24 percent from 2024 to ’25, and the new forecast predicts residential usage rising by .52 percent and commercial usage increasing .32 percent,  But industrial usage is predicted to jump 18.56 percent, with the blame placed on data centers.

The new Electric Power Outlook Report does not, however, project large loads, by themselves, resulting in a shortfall in available energy.

DeFrank says the “scale and speed” of potential change in the generating industry make accurate forecasting important, so the PUC is expanding its examination of the forecast methods, requesting longer-range demand and peak-load projections from electric companies and continuing to explore the resources that will be needed.

The report:

2026-epo-2025-2030_final_8-25-26

The Shapiro Administration characterizes the regulations as a “strategic enforcement initiative to protect home care workers’ rights,” but Pittman says the Senate is “not about to let 502 pages of regulations run people’s lives,” likening them to former Governor Tom Wolf’s actions during the Covid-19 pandemic.

Shapiro’s proposal was made before the measles outbreak that is currently afflicting Pennsylvania.   Among other new regulations, it almost doubles (from 63 to 116) the list of diseases, infections, and conditions that must be reported to the state health department .  It also allows the state more authority to take action it feels would “prevent, contain, or mitigate” an outbreak.

A particular concern of critics is that the state could interview children about a medical issue without the knowledge or consent of their parents.

Senator Pittman encourages people to file their concerns with the state’s Independent Regulatory Review Commission during a public comment period that is open through September 21^st.

TO COMMENT:

https://www.irrc.state.pa.us/contact/comments.cfm

Court documents showed 36-year-old Tyler J. Ballengee, who is listed as homeless, will serve four months to a day less than two years in Indiana County Jail for a charge of possession of a controlled substance and one year of probation for a charge of possession of drug paraphernalia.  As part of that, probation and street time were revoked for a prior case of theft, evading arrest or detention on foot and possession of drug paraphernalia.  He was ordered to serve time in Indiana County Jail for one to two years, and another 12 months of probation.

Also sentenced yesterday was 39-year-old Brian Porter of Monongahela was ordered to serve a year of probation for a charge of possession of a controlled substance. ]]> http://www.wccsradio.com/2026/09/05/sentencing-hearings-held-friday-in-indiana-county-court-9/feed/ 0 http://www.wccsradio.com/2026/09/05/river-valley-accepting-applications-for-citizens-finance-committee/ http://www.wccsradio.com/2026/09/05/river-valley-accepting-applications-for-citizens-finance-committee/#respond Sat, 05 Sep 2026 10:58:52 +0000 Josh Widdowson 2026-09-05T10:58:52+00:00 https://d1996.cms.socastsrm.com/?p=1377115

The formation of the committee is coming about amid ongoing public concern on the district’s financial health going into this school year after emergency fund transfers were made to pay off the 2025-26 Tax and Revenue Anticipation Note before the deadline and the district sought another $4  million TRAN for the current school year.  The district is also working on a long-term solution that will improve the district’s financial health.

Local taxpayers have voiced concerns for about how district funds are managed and have prompted for broader state or department review.  As part of that, the district will form the committee, which will have the purpose of providing community members with an opportunity to review, understand and provide input on the district’s financial operations, budgeting practices, long-term financial planning and responsible use of taxpayer resources.

Applications are due by September 14^th and can be found on the district’s website. ]]> http://www.wccsradio.com/2026/09/05/river-valley-accepting-applications-for-citizens-finance-committee/feed/ 0 http://www.wccsradio.com/2026/09/05/today-is-final-day-of-2026-indiana-county-fair/ http://www.wccsradio.com/2026/09/05/today-is-final-day-of-2026-indiana-county-fair/#respond Sat, 05 Sep 2026 10:58:10 +0000 Josh Widdowson 2026-09-05T10:58:10+00:00 https://d1996.cms.socastsrm.com/?p=1377113

Admission today is $10 from 10 AM until the close of the fair tonight.  At noon on the grandstand track is the demolition derby. C&L Carnival shows and rides will begin at 1:00 and the stock-semi, tri-axle dump and open gas, open diesel and 4×4 truck pulls will be at 7:00 PM on the grandstand track.

While the fair closes tonight, the fairgrounds tomorrow are expected to be busy as people will be picking up their entries from noon to 2:00 PM.  All entries must be picked up tomorrow. ]]> http://www.wccsradio.com/2026/09/05/today-is-final-day-of-2026-indiana-county-fair/feed/ 0 http://www.wccsradio.com/2026/09/04/more-than-1800-now-at-work-at-homer-city-energy-campus/ http://www.wccsradio.com/2026/09/04/more-than-1800-now-at-work-at-homer-city-energy-campus/#respond Fri, 04 Sep 2026 15:40:18 +0000 Todd Marino 2026-09-04T19:37:02+00:00 https://d1996.cms.socastsrm.com/?p=1377082 Homer City Generation this morning announced that there are now more than 1,800 direct-hire tradespeople and skilled contractors at work on the Homer City Energy Campus, and 95 percent of them are local.  CEO Corey Hessen commented that the workforce is “…helping write the next chapter in Homer City’s proud energy history while laying the foundation for long-term economic opportunity across this region.”

Nine local unions are represented: boilermakers, carpenters, electricians, ironworkers, laborers, millwrights, operators, pipefitters, teamsters and other skilled workers.  And the number of apprentices training for the future at the job site has grown to more than 135.

The company anticipates employment topping 2,000 by the end of the year.

Among the highlights of the release, the company says there are more than 10,000 direct on-site construction jobs expected over the life of the project, and approximately a thousand direct and indirect permanent high-paying positions will be created in technology, operations, and energy infrastructure when the campus is fully operational.

The release also quotes Senator Joe Pittman, Representative Jim Struzzi, and union representatives Shawn Steffee, Ben Steinmeyer, and Chad Morrison included.

READ THE RELEASE FROM HOMER CITY GENERATION BELOW:

HOMER CITY ENERGY CAMPUS WORKFORCE GROWS TO MORE THAN 1,800 WORKERS, INCLUDING MEMBERS OF 9 BUILDING AND CONSTRUCTION TRADE UNIONS

Skilled tradespeople and contractors are helping transform the former Homer City Generating Station into the largest natural gas-powered plant currently under construction in the U.S.

95% of direct-hire craft workers active on the site today are local; 135+ apprentices are active on the project site. 

INDIANA COUNTY, Pa. — SEPTEMBER 4, 2026 — Homer City Generation, L.P., today announced that the workforce building the Homer City Energy Campus has surpassed 1,800 direct-hire tradespeople and skilled contractors active on the project site, including members of nine local union organizations and a broad cross-section of Pennsylvania’s building and construction trades. As construction activity further accelerates, the workforce is expected to grow to approximately 2,000 total workers by year-end, particularly as construction and major equipment installation activities continue to ramp up across the site.

Over the past year, Homer City Generation and Kiewit Power Constructors Co. (Kiewit) have assembled a fast-growing workforce of boilermakers, carpenters, electricians, ironworkers, laborers, millwrights, operators, pipefitters, teamsters and other skilled contractors and craftspeople from across Western Pennsylvania. Today, approximately 95% of the skilled direct-hire craft workforce is from the local area, and the workforce also includes more than 135 apprentices gaining hands-on training alongside experienced journeymen working at the Homer City Energy Campus.

The workforce growth reflects the rapid progress being made on what is the largest natural gas-powered plant currently underway in the United States and one of the largest economic development projects in Pennsylvania history. The project is already generating significant economic activity throughout Indiana County and the surrounding region, supporting local businesses, restaurants and lodging providers while creating a pipeline of family-sustaining union careers for both experienced tradespeople and the next generation of apprentices.

HOMER CITY ENERGY CAMPUS WORKFORCE BY THE NUMBERS

•  1,800+ skilled contractors and direct-hire tradespeople currently active onsite, with the expectation to grow to 2,000 total workers by year-end
• 9 union organizations represented across the project’s direct-hire[1] workforce
• 95% of direct-hire craft workers onsite are local[2]
• 135+ apprentices currently gaining hands-on training and career experience as part of the direct-hire workforce
• 10,000+ direct on-site construction-related jobs expected over the life of the project[3]

• Approximately 1,000 total direct and indirect permanent high-paying positions in technology, operations and energy infrastructure once the Homer City Energy Campus is fully operational[4]

Corey Hessen, CEO of Homer City Generation, L.P., commented: 

“When we announced the Homer City Energy Campus, we made a commitment that this would be a project that created real opportunities for local workers and their families. This Labor Day, with more than 1,800 workers active onsite representing nine local unions across numerous skilled trades, we are proud to be delivering on that commitment. Our workforce represents the very best of Pennsylvania labor, and this project would not be possible without them and the many generations of hard-working Pennsylvania laborers who came before them.

The skill, professionalism and dedication demonstrated by these men and women are the bedrock of this project’s success and have enabled us to safely complete major site-readiness milestones ahead of schedule while maintaining an exceptional safety record of zero OSHA-recordable incidents to date. Their work is helping write the next chapter in Homer City’s proud energy history while laying the foundation for long-term economic opportunity across this region. We look forward to continuing to grow our talented workforce as we scale up in the months ahead.”

Shawn Steffee, Business Agent for the International Brotherhood of Boilermakers Local 154 and President of the South-Central Building Trades, commented:

“For years, our local didn’t take in a single apprentice because the work simply wasn’t here – but now, the Homer City Energy Campus is creating life-changing opportunities for our members and apprentices here in their own community, and we cannot hire fast enough. This project is allowing us to showcase the talent and expertise of Pennsylvania’s own union workforce. We are proud to have our local members playing a leading role in building a project that will support jobs, economic growth and energy development for decades to come. The future could not be brighter for our members and our apprentices – and on Labor Day, that’s something worth celebrating.”

Ben Steinmeyer, Business Agent for the I.B.E.W. Local 5, commented:

“I.B.E.W. Local 5 has worked for generations in the powerhouses of Indiana County. Homer City Generation provides our members with decades’ worth of work, all while modernizing America’s grid infrastructure and building clean, reliable power. Our electricians are an integral part of the community, and we are excited to share in the prosperity this project brings.”

Chad Morrison, Business Manager / Financial Secretary-Treasurer for Plumbers & Pipefitters Local #354, commented:

“The Homer City project has been a major win for Plumbers & Pipefitters Local 354 and, more importantly, for the hardworking men and women who make up our membership. It has created new opportunities for our apprentices, including making it possible to sell our three previous schools and create one larger combined location for the apprenticeship, expanding our workforce and positioning our Local for continued growth. As a Business Manager, I’m proud to see projects like Homer City demonstrate what union labor can accomplish. When we grow our union workforce, we’re not just creating good-paying careers; we’re strengthening families, communities and the economy of the entire Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.”

Joe Pittman, Pennsylvania State Senate Majority Leader, commented: 

“The significant expansion of the workforce at the Homer City Energy Campus is an exciting and encouraging development. Fresh job opportunities for skilled trade workers and the ability for apprentices to have hands-on learning opportunities are helping to strengthen regional economic growth and competitiveness.”

Jim Struzzi, Pennsylvania State Representative for the 62^nd Legislative District, commented:

“As we celebrate Labor Day 2026 in Western Pennsylvania, it is exciting to see the next generation of highly skilled workers building generational projects right here in Indiana County. The partnership between the business community in Homer City Generation with local labor unions is a model for our Commonwealth and nation. When we partner business with trade unions, the sky is the limit.”

[1] Direct-hire workforce excludes contractors.

[2] Local refers to workers dispatched from the local union halls with jurisdiction over the project.

[3] Anticipated total number of direct on-site jobs related to the construction of both the natural gas-powered plant and the data center campus over an expected five-year period.

[4] Anticipated total number of direct and indirect permanent positions to support the operations of both the natural gas-powered plant and all aspects of the data center.

(Videos courtesy of I.B.E.W Local 5)

Business Administration Graduates Dennis Stover from the class of ’76 and Regina Stover of the class of ’75 continued their tradition of support for the university  with the new gift.  They had previously stablished three endowment funds to support students through the Title IX athletic enhancement fund in their name, the Dressel Family fund that helps students at the Eberly College of Business, and the Legacy fund in their names that provides scholarship support to full-time students who are active members of an NCAA recognized IUP athletic team and pursuing a degree offered by the Eberly College of Business.

The amount of the gift was not released, but it will create an opportunity for future medical students to work with future student-athletes through performance improvement studies; support academic and programmatic needs of the IUP Department of Athletics related to Title IX; and provide scholarships to future IUP students for generations.

The gift was part of the Impact 150 comprehensive campaign to raise $150 million for the university.  Including the recent gift from the Stovers, the campaign has raised $122,847,723, which is roughly 81% of the goal. ]]> http://www.wccsradio.com/2026/09/04/iup-receives-gift-for-college-of-osteopathic-medicine-as-part-of-impact-150-campaign/feed/ 0 http://www.wccsradio.com/2026/09/04/troopers-to-be-out-for-labor-day-weekend/ http://www.wccsradio.com/2026/09/04/troopers-to-be-out-for-labor-day-weekend/#respond Fri, 04 Sep 2026 10:27:35 +0000 Josh Widdowson 2026-09-04T10:27:35+00:00 https://d1996.cms.socastsrm.com/?p=1377065

Troopers say that they expect to see increased traffic on the highways this weekend, and will have more troopers out on the roads starting today and going through Monday.  Troopers will be on the lookout for aggressive, distracted, and intoxicated motorists.

State police remind the public to enjoy the weekend but to do so responsibly. ]]> http://www.wccsradio.com/2026/09/04/troopers-to-be-out-for-labor-day-weekend/feed/ 0 http://www.wccsradio.com/2026/09/04/penndot-announces-virtual-plans-display-for-shelocta-truss-project/ http://www.wccsradio.com/2026/09/04/penndot-announces-virtual-plans-display-for-shelocta-truss-project/#respond Fri, 04 Sep 2026 10:27:02 +0000 Josh Widdowson 2026-09-04T10:27:02+00:00 https://d1996.cms.socastsrm.com/?p=1377063

The display will put the plans for the Shelocta Truss Preservation Project in Armstrong Township so people can see the project’s status, schedule, design and right-of-way acquisition.  The project will preserve the existing structure that carries Route 56 over Crooked Creek, including painting the existing steel truss members and installing snow shield retrofits on the existing barriers.  The project is expected to start next June and will wrap up next August.

The presentation will be available starting next Tuesday and run through October 4^th.   You can access it at https://www.pa.gov/agencies/penndot/projects-near-you/district-10-projects and click on Shelocta Truss Preservation on the projects list. ]]> http://www.wccsradio.com/2026/09/04/penndot-announces-virtual-plans-display-for-shelocta-truss-project/feed/ 0 http://www.wccsradio.com/2026/09/04/two-fire-calls-reported-by-indiana-county-911-on-thursday/ http://www.wccsradio.com/2026/09/04/two-fire-calls-reported-by-indiana-county-911-on-thursday/#respond Fri, 04 Sep 2026 10:25:35 +0000 Josh Widdowson 2026-09-04T10:25:35+00:00 https://d1996.cms.socastsrm.com/?p=1377059

The vehicle fire was reported at 11:25 AM on Route 119 in East Mahoning township.  Marion Center fire officials said on the department’s Facebook page that the fire was reported near the intersection with White Lane.  Plumville firefighters were sent out to assist.

Clyde and Armagh fire departments were sent out to Lower Club Road in Westmoreland County to assist with a structure fire at 7:28 PM. ]]> http://www.wccsradio.com/2026/09/04/two-fire-calls-reported-by-indiana-county-911-on-thursday/feed/ 0 http://www.wccsradio.com/2026/09/03/homer-center-elementary-students-to-return-september-10th/ http://www.wccsradio.com/2026/09/03/homer-center-elementary-students-to-return-september-10th/#respond Fri, 04 Sep 2026 00:49:32 +0000 Josh Widdowson 2026-09-04T00:49:32+00:00 https://d1996.cms.socastsrm.com/?p=1377034 The Homer-Center School District has announced the elementary students will have their first day of school on September 10th.

The delay in the start of class was due to the discovery of aspergillus spores in the elementary building.  On August 26th, the district announced that the start of school was delayed as they worked on cleaning the building.  The high school building was not affected, and while their school year was delayed a few days, elementary students remained out as cleaning efforts continued.  District Superintendent Ralph Cecere said during last night’s planning meeting said that there were a lot of things that contributed to the problem, including a failure of the district’s chiller.

The total cost of the remediation effort is not known, but Cecere is concerned about the cost of repairs to the system.  Cecere says they have two main concerns: the roof and the end units of the HVAC equipment.

Cecere added they are still working on how to make sure the elementary grade levels will get the required number of hours of education and that the staff can meet their contractual obligation.

Trustees were introduced to four new, full-time faculty members for the College of Osteopathic Medicine. Founding Dean Dr. Miko Rose says that the new staff is fully committed to the mission of the college.

The council was also provided with preliminary enrollment numbers for the fall 2026 semester. The unofficial numbers detail 9,067 students enrolled, which is a 1% increase compared to last fall.

Vice President for Student Affairs Dr. Thomas Segar says that a lot can change between now and the finalization of the data, but they like where they are right now.

Official enrollment numbers should be released sometime in September. ]]> http://www.wccsradio.com/2026/09/03/1377030/feed/ 0 http://www.wccsradio.com/2026/09/03/measles-cases-continue-to-spread-across-state-region/ http://www.wccsradio.com/2026/09/03/measles-cases-continue-to-spread-across-state-region/#respond Thu, 03 Sep 2026 11:25:13 +0000 Josh Widdowson 2026-09-03T11:25:13+00:00 https://d1996.cms.socastsrm.com/?p=1376963

The PA Department of Health reported a slight uptick in Indiana County in the number of cases from 8 to 9 over the last week.  However, one case has now been reported in Armstrong County.  There’s still just one case in Westmoreland County and Jefferson County is now reporting 23 cases.

Across the state, there have been 119 new cases reported over the last week, bringing the total for the year at 540.  528 of those cases have been since April when the measles outbreak started in Lancaster County.

This comes as state Department of Health officials announced that an out of state person may have exposed people to measles at the PA Turnpike Service Plaza in New Stanton in Westmoreland County on August 17^th.  Anyone who visited there that day are asked to confirm their vaccination status and check for symptoms.  Anyone not vaccinated against measles and may have been exposed should contact their health care provider or the Department of Health at 877-724-3528. ]]> http://www.wccsradio.com/2026/09/03/measles-cases-continue-to-spread-across-state-region/feed/ 0 http://www.wccsradio.com/2026/09/03/housing-community-planned-for-former-vfw-golf-course-site-in-white-township/ http://www.wccsradio.com/2026/09/03/housing-community-planned-for-former-vfw-golf-course-site-in-white-township/#respond Thu, 03 Sep 2026 10:23:42 +0000 Josh Widdowson 2026-09-03T10:23:42+00:00 https://d1996.cms.socastsrm.com/?p=1376954

Local businessman Jerry Tibbott says that he is moving forward with the creation of Indian Springs Estates”, a residential and mixed-use community at the former property of the Veterans of Foreign Wars.  The current conceptual master plan is calling for 328 new homes to be built, including 66 single-family homes, 240 townhomes, and 22 patio townhouses along with 2.44 acres to be used for a proposed drive-through coffee shop, another 5.3 acres overlooking the lake for hotel development and another 5.3 acres for commercial or recreational development.

In a statement, Tibbott said that he initially purchased the property three years ago with the idea of having it be the future location of an wedding and event venue business owned and operated by his son, Austin, but determined that the property offered more opportunities than just the event venue and took a deep study into how the property can be best utilized.  He added that it has become a passion project for him and his family and they want to create a place that will address community needs while making a place the township and the county can be proud of.

Indian Springs Estates is still in the planning, engineering and entitlement phases at this time.  The family has met with local officials and they hope to complete all the necessary planning, engineering, and permitting by Spring of 2028 before starting work on site development.  They plan on working on the project in phases over a period of years. ]]> http://www.wccsradio.com/2026/09/03/housing-community-planned-for-former-vfw-golf-course-site-in-white-township/feed/ 0 http://www.wccsradio.com/2026/09/03/chamber-business-hall-of-fame-induction-to-be-held-tonight/ http://www.wccsradio.com/2026/09/03/chamber-business-hall-of-fame-induction-to-be-held-tonight/#respond Thu, 03 Sep 2026 10:18:12 +0000 Josh Widdowson 2026-09-03T10:18:12+00:00 https://d1996.cms.socastsrm.com/?p=1376952

The six inductees were announced at the annual chamber meeting in December of last year.  They include:

DECEASED

• Martin Bearer of the Chestnut Ridge Golf Resort and Conference Center.
• James Nix of Prairie State Incubator Company and founding director of Homer City National Bank.

LIVING

• Greg Sipos of First Commonwealth Bank
• The Lawer Family
• The Lockard Family

Also inducted this year will be the Chairperson’s selection, which is Hastie Kinter.  Their stories will join the others in the new location of the Chamber Business Hall of Fame at the Indiana County Welcome Center in Downtown Indiana.

The ceremonies will be held tonight at the Indiana Country Club. ]]> http://www.wccsradio.com/2026/09/03/chamber-business-hall-of-fame-induction-to-be-held-tonight/feed/ 0 http://www.wccsradio.com/2026/09/02/river-valley-school-board-approves-testing-at-all-district-buildings/ http://www.wccsradio.com/2026/09/02/river-valley-school-board-approves-testing-at-all-district-buildings/#respond Wed, 02 Sep 2026 23:17:51 +0000 Josh Widdowson 2026-09-02T23:17:51+00:00 https://d1996.cms.socastsrm.com/?p=1376931

The additional testing comes after white mold was discovered in Saltsburg Elementary School that prompted students there to be switched to remote learning.  Crews from Mold Pro have been called in to Harper says that the split system they use for their heating and air conditioning was overwhelmed by the humidity over the last month.

This will mark the second time the Saltsburg buildings will be tested, and Harper said it will be good to get a second opinion.

The board is hopeful that they will be able to bring students back to Saltsburg Elementary by September 18th. ]]> http://www.wccsradio.com/2026/09/02/river-valley-school-board-approves-testing-at-all-district-buildings/feed/ 0 http://www.wccsradio.com/2026/09/02/indiana-area-high-school-deals-with-bedbug-incident/ http://www.wccsradio.com/2026/09/02/indiana-area-high-school-deals-with-bedbug-incident/#respond Wed, 02 Sep 2026 20:20:29 +0000 Matt Lewis 2026-09-02T20:22:10+00:00 https://d1996.cms.socastsrm.com/?p=1376926

]]> http://www.wccsradio.com/2026/09/02/indiana-area-high-school-deals-with-bedbug-incident/feed/ 0 http://www.wccsradio.com/2026/09/02/commissioner-hess-holds-virtual-town-hall-on-proposed-non-disclosure-ordinance/ http://www.wccsradio.com/2026/09/02/commissioner-hess-holds-virtual-town-hall-on-proposed-non-disclosure-ordinance/#respond Wed, 02 Sep 2026 18:20:12 +0000 Matt Lewis 2026-09-02T18:20:12+00:00 https://d1996.cms.socastsrm.com/?p=1376923

A virtual “town hall” meeting was held Wednesday morning in connection with a proposed ordinance.

Indiana County Commissioner Sherene Hess hosted the “town hall” style meeting to discuss the ongoing issue of Commissioners signing non-disclosure agreements on behalf of the county. Those who spoke during the meeting voiced concerns about officials “conducting business behind closed doors”.

The ordinance would ensure that no county officials sign any NDA’s, with some state and federal exceptions. Should they enter one under one of those exceptions, they would have 72 hours to inform the public of the agreement. There would also be penalties including a $1000 dollar fine.

Hess says that in order for something like that to work, it would need to go through a public meeting.

Commissioners Mike Keith and Bonni Dunlap released a joint statement on the matter, as they were not involved in the virtual meeting. In it, they assure residents that they “are not ‘meeting behind closed doors to conduct public business’ and that no NDAs have been signed by Commissioner Keith, Dunlap, or any county employee.”.

]]> http://www.wccsradio.com/2026/09/02/commissioner-hess-holds-virtual-town-hall-on-proposed-non-disclosure-ordinance/feed/ 0 http://www.wccsradio.com/2026/09/02/more-information-released-on-deliveries-to-be-made-to-homer-city-power-plant-site/ http://www.wccsradio.com/2026/09/02/more-information-released-on-deliveries-to-be-made-to-homer-city-power-plant-site/#respond Wed, 02 Sep 2026 13:45:10 +0000 Josh Widdowson 2026-09-02T13:45:10+00:00 https://d1996.cms.socastsrm.com/?p=1376916

The first of three phases of these deliveries will start September 14^th and run through October 16^th, with phase two starting November 5^th and wrap up before Thanksgiving.  After taking the holidays off, the final phase will start January 4^th.  Twenty pieces will be moved during the first phase alone.

Tim Ernst with Ewards Moving and Rigging says that the big issue is making sure that the infrastructure is not negatively impacted by the move.

The route from Sewickley to the Homer City site has been carefully selected to make sure the loads can make their way through safely.  This includes utilizing special bucket trucks to lift overhead wires, traffic signals and trees out of the way to keep the path clear.  Crews will also have to traverse bridges using bridge jumpers that will be installed as the loads approach the bridge.  Ernst said that in some cases, they can’t just take the direct route.

Ernst also acknowledged that these deliveries will draw crowds of onlookers and he said that it’s appreciated, but to give them plenty of room to move.

Energy production at the plant is slated to start in 2027 or 2028. ]]> http://www.wccsradio.com/2026/09/02/more-information-released-on-deliveries-to-be-made-to-homer-city-power-plant-site/feed/ 0 http://www.wccsradio.com/2026/09/02/saltsburg-elementary-students-on-remote-learning-after-air-quality-issues/ http://www.wccsradio.com/2026/09/02/saltsburg-elementary-students-on-remote-learning-after-air-quality-issues/#respond Wed, 02 Sep 2026 10:58:34 +0000 Josh Widdowson 2026-09-02T10:58:34+00:00 https://d1996.cms.socastsrm.com/?p=1376907

Air quality results that were received by the district early yesterday morning prompted a move of Saltsburg Elementary students and teachers to the River Valley STEAM academy campus.  Parents were given the option to pick up their children yesterday, and if they did take that option, the child would not be marked absent.  With the remote learning in place today, students in kindergarten through second grade or those who do not have access to technology and have not already received their learning packets will be able to pick them up from 8:00 AM to 3:30 PM today at the STEAM academy office.  The district is hopeful that students will be able to return to the building on September 18^th, but an exact return date will be announced once remediation and follow-up testing are complete.

A special school board meeting will be held tonight at the River Valley Middle/High School Auditorium to discuss and consider action regarding mold concerns at the Saltsburg Elementary campus.  That will start at 6:00 tonight.  An exact agenda has not been released.

Meanwhile, the start of the school year remains delayed for Homer-Center Elementary students due to mold remediation. ]]> http://www.wccsradio.com/2026/09/02/saltsburg-elementary-students-on-remote-learning-after-air-quality-issues/feed/ 0 http://www.wccsradio.com/2026/09/02/at-least-one-person-was-injured-in-crash-in-rayne-township/ http://www.wccsradio.com/2026/09/02/at-least-one-person-was-injured-in-crash-in-rayne-township/#respond Wed, 02 Sep 2026 10:53:47 +0000 Josh Widdowson 2026-09-02T10:54:14+00:00 https://d1996.cms.socastsrm.com/?p=1376905

The crash was reported at 1:15 AM by Indiana County 911 as they sent the Marion Center, Plumville and Creekside fire departments along with Citizens Ambulance and State Police.  Initial reports from the Marion Center Fire Department on Facebook confirmed that at least one person was trapped in their vehicle.  Lifeflight was called in to transport those injured to the hospital.

A landing zone had to be setup at Rayne Elementary School. ]]> http://www.wccsradio.com/2026/09/02/at-least-one-person-was-injured-in-crash-in-rayne-township/feed/ 0 http://www.wccsradio.com/2026/09/02/indiana-man-charged-with-assault-in-jefferson-county/ http://www.wccsradio.com/2026/09/02/indiana-man-charged-with-assault-in-jefferson-county/#respond Wed, 02 Sep 2026 10:51:55 +0000 Josh Widdowson 2026-09-02T10:51:55+00:00 https://d1996.cms.socastsrm.com/?p=1376902

Court documents show 50-year-old Matthew Smith faces charges in connection with the incident on July 31^st at a home on Lenyok Road in Young Township.  The woman told state troopers that he picked her up at a restaurant in Punxsy and drove her towards Young Township when he demanded a cell phone from the woman’s boyfriend, who was taken into custody earlier that day.  When she refused, Smith reportedly punched her in the head and ear, then ordered her out of the car and drove away without her.  The woman walked to a nearby house to call 911.

Smith faces charges of simple assault, harassment and disorderly conduct.  A preliminary hearing is set for September 8^th before district judge Jacqueline J. Mizerock. ]]> http://www.wccsradio.com/2026/09/02/indiana-man-charged-with-assault-in-jefferson-county/feed/ 0 http://www.wccsradio.com/2026/09/02/transport-of-massive-energy-generators-to-hcr-campus-to-begin-next-week/ http://www.wccsradio.com/2026/09/02/transport-of-massive-energy-generators-to-hcr-campus-to-begin-next-week/#respond Wed, 02 Sep 2026 08:00:13 +0000 Todd Marino 2026-09-02T11:37:35+00:00 https://d1996.cms.socastsrm.com/?p=1376888 th, and there may be periodic traffic delays as the units make their way from Schenley, in Allegheny County, to the Homer City Energy Campus on Power Plant Drive.

The fifteen HRSG modules are massive, ranging in weight from 228,000 pounds to 438,000 pounds, and will be moved using specialized Goldhofer modular trailers.  Police escorts and specialized bucket trucks will accompany the transports, with the bucket trucks safely raising or clearing traffic signals, utility lines, and other overhead infrastructure.  Top speeds will be three to four miles per hour in urban areas, 12 to 18 miles per hour on open highways.  All bridges will be crossed at walking speed with only the transport allowed on the bridge, effectively shutting down the bridge to other traffic.

The enormous generators were shipped from overseas to the Port of Mobile in Alabama and after making their way to Schenley on barges using inland waterways, the first three units arrived at Schenley yesterday, and are being prepared for their final over-the-road journey to Center Township today.

The first unit will move out next Wednesday, arriving on Thursday.  The trip will require special dollies along Route 22 and at the Black Lick Creek bridge.  The empty trailer will return to Schenley and the second unit will be shipped beginning on Saturday, September 12^th.  Other modules will be shipped starting on September 16^th, 19^th, 23^rd, 26^th, and 30^th, and on October 1^st, 5^th, 6^th, 8^th, 9^th, 14^th, and 15^th.

Edwards is asking motorists to be patient, remain alert, follow the direction of police and traffic-control personnel, and give the transports a wide berth.

Tim Ernst from Edwards Moving and Rigging will join Indiana In the Morning on WCCS at 7:45 this morning. ]]> http://www.wccsradio.com/2026/09/02/transport-of-massive-energy-generators-to-hcr-campus-to-begin-next-week/feed/ 0 http://www.wccsradio.com/2026/09/01/center-township-supervisors-updated-on-power-plant-project/ http://www.wccsradio.com/2026/09/01/center-township-supervisors-updated-on-power-plant-project/#respond Wed, 02 Sep 2026 00:24:28 +0000 Josh Widdowson 2026-09-02T09:09:57+00:00 https://d1996.cms.socastsrm.com/?p=1376883

The update came from John Clark, who is the consultant for the township and a project manager for the Homer City Generation project.  He said that a lot has been accomplished over the last few months.  One of the things that he is working on are budget documents in an effort to keep things more visible to the public.

He also talked about the informational meetings with HCG and PennDOT about intersections, roadwork and things in the township that need to be done.  He reassured people that they are looking out for the best interest of every commumity, large or small.

Supervisors also briefly discussed a superload related to the Homer City Power Plant that’s coming through the area.  It’s not expected to impact a large area of Center Township except for where the load will enter the power plant site. ]]> http://www.wccsradio.com/2026/09/01/center-township-supervisors-updated-on-power-plant-project/feed/ 0 http://www.wccsradio.com/2026/09/01/homer-city-borough-council-approves-no-commercial-vehicle-signs-for-borough-roads/ http://www.wccsradio.com/2026/09/01/homer-city-borough-council-approves-no-commercial-vehicle-signs-for-borough-roads/#respond Tue, 01 Sep 2026 23:56:59 +0000 Matt Lewis 2026-09-01T23:56:59+00:00 https://d1996.cms.socastsrm.com/?p=1376881

Council approved the addition of “No Commercial Vehicle” signs for both Lincoln and Church Streets, which have seen increased commercial traffic, likely due to the project at the former site of the Homer City Generating Station.

Council member Cal Cecconi explains the issue further.

Cecconi says that those signs should be printed and put up within a month.

Council also approved setting a date for a public hearing concerning the amending of the current zoning ordinance. That date is expected to be announced at their next meeting. ]]> http://www.wccsradio.com/2026/09/01/homer-city-borough-council-approves-no-commercial-vehicle-signs-for-borough-roads/feed/ 0 http://www.wccsradio.com/2026/09/01/indiana-countys-unemployment-rate-ticks-down-in-july/ http://www.wccsradio.com/2026/09/01/indiana-countys-unemployment-rate-ticks-down-in-july/#respond Tue, 01 Sep 2026 15:26:48 +0000 Josh Widdowson 2026-09-01T15:26:48+00:00 https://d1996.cms.socastsrm.com/?p=1376854

The Department of Labor and Industry reported that the seasonally adjusted unemployment rate went down by two-tenths of a percentage point to 3.5%.  In July of 2025, the county’s unemployment rate was 4.8%.

Comparing Indiana County to the surrounding counties, Westmoreland County had the lowest rate at 3.2%  Jefferson followed at 3.4%.  Then Indiana, then Clearfield and Armstrong Counties are at 3.6%.  Cambria had the highest in our region at 4.4%.

The lowest unemployment rate was Montour County at 2.3.  The highest was Potter County at 4.7.

The seasonally adjusted labor force, which is the number of people working or looking for work, went up by 100 to 35,900.  Employment went up by 200 and unemployment went down by 100. ]]> http://www.wccsradio.com/2026/09/01/indiana-countys-unemployment-rate-ticks-down-in-july/feed/ 0 http://www.wccsradio.com/2026/09/01/police-looking-for-information-on-theft-at-dollar-general-market-in-indiana/ http://www.wccsradio.com/2026/09/01/police-looking-for-information-on-theft-at-dollar-general-market-in-indiana/#respond Tue, 01 Sep 2026 11:22:19 +0000 Josh Widdowson 2026-09-01T11:22:19+00:00 https://d1996.cms.socastsrm.com/?p=1376830 Indiana borough police are investigating a theft at the Dollar General Market on South 7^th Street last Wednesday.

Officers say that the theft happened between 2:50 and 3:00 PM on August 26^th as the suspect took $31 worth of merchandise from the store.

(Photo courtesy Indiana Borough Police)

Anyone with information should call police at 724-349-2121.

At 6:30, the grandstand stage will host the results ceremony for the annual Evergreen After School Club’s Kiss-A-Pig fundraiser.  Dr. Sally McCombie of Indiana School Board, Indiana Senior High assistant principal Michael Bertig, IUP Basketball Coach Joe Lombardi, S&T Bank’s David Doak, IndiGo’s Linda Mitchell and Indiana Mayor Charles Simelton have been raising money over the last few months for the after-school programs.  Tonight, the organization will announce the final totals for the fundraiser at 6:30 on the county fair’s grandstand stage.  The one who raises the most money will kiss a pig live on the stage.

Band Night will begin at 7:00.  Multiple high school marching bands will perform for the crowds tonight on the track in front of the grandstand stage.

A complete schedule can be found at www.IndianaCountyFair.org

In a statement issued yesterday, Superintendent Matthew Mols said that the district’s cleaning contractor Servpro has started remediation efforts at R.K. Mellon Elementary School in Ligonier.  Once the cleaning is complete, air quality testing will be performed to make sure that the building is safe for occupation.  Last week, district officials said mold was found in three classrooms at that building.  Meanwhile, air quality testing is going on at the Laurel Valley Elementary School and the district’s middle and high schools as a precaution.  Any decision on reopening the schools will be made after a review of the reports made to the district’s environmental consultant.

Meanwhile, mold remediation efforts continue at Homer-Center’s elementary school, but students in grades 7-12 will head to school today, along with ICTC students.  Aspergillus spores were found in the elementary building and Servpro is also working on cleaning the classrooms.

Court documents show 19-year-old Chase Mansfield of Indiana was sentenced for guilty pleas to two counts of making terroristic threats.  Indiana Borough Police said that a witness reported to officers that Mansfield said he was going to “shoot up the parade”.  Police found him in the 600 block of Philadelphia Street and took him into custody.  He did not have a weapon.  He will serve two years of probation for each count.

He also was sentenced to a year of probation for each charge of criminal mischief, theft and criminal mischief, and two years for each charge of reckless burning or exploding and criminal trespass across four other cases.

Judge Gina Force ordered all the charges to run consecutively.

The first crash was on Olivet Road near Olivet in Armstrong County.  Iselin fire department was sent out at 4:08 PM to assist crews in Armstrong County.  The other crash was reported at 11:39 PM on Route 22 East in East Wheatfield Township.  That brought out crews from the Armagh Fire Department along with the state police.

Details on the crashes are not yet available.

Crews also had to deal with utility lines down at 3:26 PM on Vanderbuilt Street in Green Township.  Commodore fire department was ordered to the scene.  The other call was an automatic fire alarm on Clark Road in Montgomery Township.  Glen Campbell Fire Department was sent to the scene.

The national average according to Triple-A this morning is $4.09 a gallon, which holds steady over the last week and a penny lower over the last month.  Pennsylvania’s average is at $4.25 a gallon, a jump of seven cents from the week before and four cents over the last month.

Indiana County’s average dipped slightly over the week to $4.33 after a jump of 23 cents the prior week.  Among the surrounding counties, Jefferson County has the lowest average at $4.25 a gallon, while the highest is Clearfield at $4.37.

Gas prices in Indiana, Blairsville and Clymer are hovering around $4.35 to $4.39 this morning.  Along the Route 119 corridor, both Sheetz and Kwik Fill are at $4.29 this morning while Accent Fuels is $4.09.

Dr. Charles Iadanza comes to IUP from Duquesne University’s Nasuit College of Osteopathic Medicine and a similar institution with the New York Institute of Technology at Arkansas State University.  Institute of Technology College of Osteopathic Medicine at Arkansas State University. His work has included developing assessment and research initiatives, supporting curriculum and program development, and using data to improve student learning and institutional effectiveness.  As director of Assessment and Quality Improvement, he will be responsible for leading the development of the college’s assessment and continuous quality improvement processes, working with faculty and college leadership to evaluate student learning and curriculum effectiveness, support accreditation, and using data to guide educational and institutional improvement.

In a statement, Iadanza said he was excited about the opportunity, saying “The opportunity to help build a culture of continuous improvement while supporting the College’s commitment to strengthening rural health and preparing physicians to serve communities across Pennsylvania is incredibly meaningful to me.”

On Friday, Homer-Center Superintendent Ralph Cecere announced that more time was needed to complete cleaning and testing at the district’s elementary school, where aspergillus spores were found in a few elementary classrooms.  The start of class for elementary students has been delayed, but the secondary grades of 7-12 will start class tomorrow.  Students will also attend classes this Friday, which was originally scheduled as a vacation day as part of Labor Day weekend.  Parents of elementary students will receive a two-day notification of when classes will start, and if classes start this week, there will be class on Friday.

Meanwhile, Ligonier Valley School buildings are closed for mold remediation and air quality testing.  Last week, district officials said three classrooms at R.K. Mellon Elementary had traces of mold found in the building.  Superintendent Matthew Mols said in a letter to the district that cleaning efforts were done on Thursday and air quality samples were collected on Friday.  The follow up tests showed the targeted classrooms still had levels above what was recommended for occupancy.  A professional cleaning company has been brought in for the elementary school, and the Laurel Valley Elementary School along with the district’s middle and high schools will close for air quality testing today.

Court documents show 31-year-old Detrolen Hobbs will go before Indiana County President Judge Thomas Bianco this morning.  He was charged in connection with an incident on January 21^st where he stabbed a woman while she was working as a care giver at a home in the 1100 block of Oak Street.  Police say he met the woman online and travelled to meet her but became abusive towards her and on the night of the incident, called her multiple times after she left for work.  Hobbs then broke into the home and stabbed the victim while she was providing care.  Citizens’ Ambulance, Indiana Borough and IUP police were able to respond quickly and saved her.

In June, Hobbs pleaded guilty to attempted criminal homicide, aggravated assault-attempt to cause serious bodily injury, burglary and possession of an instrument of crime.

Also due for sentencing today is Chase Mansfield of Indiana.  He is due for sentencing for five separate incidents where he entered guilty pleas.  This includes guilty pleas to two counts of making terroristic threats during the Indiana Borough St. Patrick’s Day parade.  Witnesses told police that Mansfield told them that he was going to “shoot up the parade”.  He was found in the 600 block of Philadelphia Street, and police immediately took him into custody.

Among the charges in the four other cases are receiving stolen property, criminal trespass, reckless burning or exploding, theft and criminal mischief.

On Saturday, Fox’s Pizza Den in Indiana announced the closure on the store’s Facebook page.  Representatives said in the post that they had numerous challenges, including increasing competition and the rapid growth of the local market.  Other nearby locations for Fox’s Pizza include Homer City and Shelocta.

The runner up was the only other person in the competition, 16-year-old Lilly Mano who is a junior at Marion Center.  She is also active in the school’s 4H and FFA clubs and is dual-enrolled at Marion Center at IUP.

The fair continues through Saturday.

(2026 Indiana County Fair Queen Abbi States (seated) joined by alternate Lilly Mano.  Photo and video by Josh Widdowson)

Homer-Center Superintendent Ralph Cecere has announced that elementary school students will not be starting school on Tuesday because of ongoing efforts to deal with the mold issues in the building.  A two-day notice will be provided to parents when a start date is decided, with the district hoping for later this week.

Meanwhile, students at the Junior/Senior High School, including ICTC, will start on Tuesday, and school will be in session on Friday, which was previously planned as a vacation day heading into Labor Day weekend.  If school does start for elementary students this week, they, too, will be in class on Friday.

Either way, the Homer-Center school board must eventually decide how to handle the separate schedules for the elementary and high school students.  The board will hold a regularly-scheduled planning meeting on Thursday night.

Other school board meetings this week include United, with a work session on Tuesday at which applicants for the vacant Region 1 seat will be interviewed; and Penns Manor, which will hold a committee meeting on Wednesday.

Sunday referred to Weiss as a “cold-blooded killer,” and said the fatal beating of the 16-year-old with a tire iron was “horrific.”

Weiss will be sentenced on October 30^th.  The case, though, might not be over.  Weiss can appeal to a higher court in Pennsylvania or even in U.S. District Court on a contention that the trial was not permitted because his 1997 conviction for the same crime was overturned in the federal court in 2018.

Indiana County President Judge Thomas Bianco ruled that Weiss could be re-tried because the reason federal judge Mark Hornack struck down the original conviction, prosecutorial misconduct, was separate from the actual crime Weiss committed.

Among a number of proposals he offers is consideration of the State System “offering a limited number of three-year bachelor’s programs,” which APSCUF President Dr. Kenneth Mash criticized in his address to the Board of Governors last spring.

The issue could become a sticking point in collective bargaining negotiations if the State System does formally propose the creation of a three-year bachelor’s program.  Contract talks have just begun for APSCUF faculty.

Chancellor Christopher Fiorentino’s blog:

https://chancellorfiorentino.blogspot.com/2026/08/the-power-of-what-if.html

$41 million of the savings come from an investigation of First Energy Penelec’s efforts to implement a list of fifteen recommendations from its 2022 audit.  The investigation showed implementation of seven of the recommendations and action on the other eight.

One interesting finding is the PUC’s recommendation regarding its “FE-PA” initiative, specifically that the utility “disclose and explain increases in operating costs attributed to the fallout from executive misconduct in…future base rate filings.”

From the report:

SUMMARY OF MANAGEMENT EFFECTIVENESS AND OPERATING EFFICIENCY

The PUC Auditors found that FE PA effectively or substantially implemented seven of the selected 15 recommendations of the 2022 Audit Report and has acted on the remaining eight recommendations.

Among the more notable improvements are:

• FirstEnergy has realized approximately $174 million in operating and maintenance expense savings through its strategic planning initiatives, FE Forward and FE Forward Refresh, with an approximated $41 million savings being allocated to FE PA
• FirstEnergy has cooperated with investigations and met its settlement agreement obligations and has made progress in enhancing it ethics and compliance culture
• New internal controls over financial reporting were implemented and tested which resulted in unmodified opinions from its independent auditor throughout the review period
• FirstEnergy implemented a new process for engaging with third-party collections agencies to drive improved collections performance

Although these accomplishments are commendable, the PUC Auditors identified further opportunities for improvement. Specifically, FirstEnergy and/or FE PA should:

• Maintain focus to comply with obligations of executed settlement agreements
• Disclose and explain increases in operating costs attributed to the fallout from executive misconduct in FE PA’s future base rate filings
• Identify further opportunities for improvement through the 2024 Ethical Perceptions Survey fostering the continuous improvement model
• Develop and implement a procedure to review and update the relevant affiliated interest agreements on file with the PUC following any change to the cost allocation processes
• Evaluate the effectiveness of the enhanced pole attachment fee collection processes to identify additional process improvements to increase pole attachment fee collection and reduce write-offs
• Improve electric reliability performance by implementing remedial programs and best practices that will effectively address the top outage causes
• Include overtime management language, such as minimum call-out acceptance expectations and maximum allowable overtime levels, in renegotiated union contracts throughout FE PA
• Complete initial and ongoing system inspections and remediation
• Develop and implement a workforce planning model based on historic overtime and storms data and periodically adjust staffing levels to optimize overtime management which may save approximately $4.3 million in labor costs, annually
• Develop and implement a schedule for routine penetration testing, including engagements with external resources, at FirstEnergy’s facilities in Pennsylvania based on risk and facility criticality
• Investigate the root causes for FirstEnergy’s distribution centers and FE PA’s operating divisions consistently missing inventory turnover targets and implement strategies to meet goals which could potentially save $147,000 – $1.1 million in carrying costs, annually
• Review, update, and finalize the FEU Materials Management Guidelines and establish and implement a routine review process
• Perform collection level benchmarking to establish appropriate smart targets and implement strategies to encourage collection agencies to meet the targets
• Develop and implement individualized, attainable safety targets for FE PA’s operating divisions to drive performance toward corporate-level safety metrics
• Focus additional resources to support improved safety performance through enhanced safety training and procedural compliance in response to safety incident root cause analysis which could potentially save up to $575,000, annually, through a reduction in lost hours due to accidents

In an update posted on the district’s website, Superintendent Ralph Cecere said that additional days are needed for crews to clean and test the classrooms to make sure that everything is safe for students to return.  To that end, elementary students will not return to class on Tuesday, September 1^st ,  More information is expected to be released as the cleaning company provides guidance to the district.

In his video comments, Superintendent Ralph Cecere said that the further delay will not affect the students at the secondary grade level.

He added that September 4^th, an originally scheduled day off, will have classes as part of the effort to make up for the missed days at the start of the year.

Parents of elementary students will get a two-day notice regarding the day of return, and if classes for elementary students do start next week, there will be class on September 4^th for them as well. ]]> http://www.wccsradio.com/2026/08/29/homer-center-elementary-start-delayed-further-due-to-cleaning-efforts/feed/ 0 http://www.wccsradio.com/2026/08/29/attorney-general-issues-statement-on-weiss-retrial/ http://www.wccsradio.com/2026/08/29/attorney-general-issues-statement-on-weiss-retrial/#respond Sat, 29 Aug 2026 11:39:31 +0000 Josh Widdowson 2026-08-29T11:39:31+00:00 https://d1996.cms.socastsrm.com/?p=1376744

The 78-year-old man was convicted on Thursday night by an Indiana County Court jury on Thursday night for the October 1978 killing of Barbara Bruzda after she and him played pool at the tavern her father owned in Tunnelton.  Her body was found in February of 1979 buried beneath a pile of leaves, bludgeoned to death with a tire iron.  The original guilty verdict from the 1997 trial was overturned in 2018 over prosecutorial misconduct.

In a statement, Attorney General Dave Sunday said that “Barbara’s family and friends have dealt with heartbreak and the anguish of not knowing if their loved one’s killer would be held responsible.”  He added that he hoped the jury’s verdict would provide some relief.

A sentencing hearing is set for October 30^th.  Weiss faces a mandatory life sentence without parole. ]]> http://www.wccsradio.com/2026/08/29/attorney-general-issues-statement-on-weiss-retrial/feed/ 0 http://www.wccsradio.com/2026/08/29/state-police-investigating-fire-in-trash-can-in-white-township-park/ http://www.wccsradio.com/2026/08/29/state-police-investigating-fire-in-trash-can-in-white-township-park/#respond Sat, 29 Aug 2026 11:36:26 +0000 Josh Widdowson 2026-08-29T11:36:40+00:00 https://d1996.cms.socastsrm.com/?p=1376741

Indiana, Creekside, Homer City and Marion Center fire departments along with Citizens’ Ambulance were sent to Kennedy-King park on Clinton Avenue in the Chevy Chase area of White Township at 7:03 PM for what was initially termed as a fire in an outbuilding.  Indiana Fire Association officials say that someone set a garbage can on fire at the park’s restroom.  Little damage was reported, mainly a melted garbage can and a small amount of smoke was reported. ]]> http://www.wccsradio.com/2026/08/29/state-police-investigating-fire-in-trash-can-in-white-township-park/feed/ 0 http://www.wccsradio.com/2026/08/29/four-crashes-reported-on-friday-by-indiana-county-911/ http://www.wccsradio.com/2026/08/29/four-crashes-reported-on-friday-by-indiana-county-911/#respond Sat, 29 Aug 2026 11:35:16 +0000 Josh Widdowson 2026-08-29T11:38:37+00:00 https://d1996.cms.socastsrm.com/?p=1376739 fire in a trash can at Kennedy-King Park, there were four vehicle accidents.

The first was reported at 10:09 AM on North 6^th Street in Indiana Borough, with Indiana Fire Association, Citizens’ Ambulance and Indiana Borough Police dispatched at the time.

The second crash was at 4:51 PM on Oakland Avenue in White Township.  Indiana Firefighters and Citizens’ were joined by state police on that call.

Elderton firefighters were sent out for the third crash call at 5:47 PM on Route 422 in Shelocta Borough along with Citizens’ and state troopers.  The final collision was reported on South Walnut Street in Blairsville Borough at 9:30 PM.  Blairsville and Black Lick fire departments were sent out at the time.

Details on the crashes have not been released. ]]> http://www.wccsradio.com/2026/08/29/four-crashes-reported-on-friday-by-indiana-county-911/feed/ 0 http://www.wccsradio.com/2026/08/29/maryland-man-ordered-to-serve-time-in-indiana-county-jail-for-chase/ http://www.wccsradio.com/2026/08/29/maryland-man-ordered-to-serve-time-in-indiana-county-jail-for-chase/#respond Sat, 29 Aug 2026 11:34:31 +0000 Josh Widdowson 2026-08-29T11:34:31+00:00 https://d1996.cms.socastsrm.com/?p=1376737

Court documents show 26-year-old Diymon Womble of Hagerstown pleaded guilty to charges of flight to avoid apprehension, fleeing or attempting to elude police, evading arrest or detention on foot, and reckless endangerment for an incident on March 24^th in Blairsville.  Borough police on that day saw him getting into his car on Veterans Drive.  He was wanted on a warrant out of Cambria County.  When police tried to stop him near a gas station on Villa Road and Route 22, Womble took off and lead police on a chase that ended on East Brown Street and Grandview Avenue when he lost control of his vehicle and hit a utility pole and some hedges.  He then went on a foot chase and was taken into custody at a home on Veterans Drive.

For the charges of flight to avoid apprehension and evading arrest, Womble was ordered to serve three months to a day less than two years in Indiana County Jail.  For the fleeing charge, he will serve six months to a day less than two years in jail and three years of probation.  For the charge of reckless endangerment, he will serve two years of probation. ]]> http://www.wccsradio.com/2026/08/29/maryland-man-ordered-to-serve-time-in-indiana-county-jail-for-chase/feed/ 0 http://www.wccsradio.com/2026/08/29/legislators-address-power-plant-issues-at-eggs-and-issues-chamber-event/ http://www.wccsradio.com/2026/08/29/legislators-address-power-plant-issues-at-eggs-and-issues-chamber-event/#respond Sat, 29 Aug 2026 11:32:37 +0000 Josh Widdowson 2026-08-29T11:32:37+00:00 https://d1996.cms.socastsrm.com/?p=1376732

Senator Joe Pittman was asked about the recent executive orders from the Governor that would establish guidelines and regulations for A.I. data center developments in the state.  Pittman said that its important to remember that not all data center plans are equal, and that there are some people who are going about things the wrong way, and that proper code, zoning and development pieces need to be in place.

State Representative Jim Struzzi said that there is still a process that needs to be followed for the development.

State Representative Brian Smith said that a lot of the negativity for A.I. data centers are “misguided” in his words.

A full video from the Eggs and Issues event can be found on the Chamber’s Facebook page. ]]> http://www.wccsradio.com/2026/08/29/legislators-address-power-plant-issues-at-eggs-and-issues-chamber-event/feed/ 0 http://www.wccsradio.com/2026/08/28/watch-indiana-high-football-season-starts-tonight/ http://www.wccsradio.com/2026/08/28/watch-indiana-high-football-season-starts-tonight/#respond Fri, 28 Aug 2026 20:53:14 +0000 Josh Widdowson 2026-08-28T20:54:00+00:00 https://d1996.cms.socastsrm.com/?p=1376713 It’s week one of the High School Football season and Indiana takes on Freeport.  Watch the game on Renda Digital TV by clicking the player below.

On Saturday, district officials announced that the start of school would be delayed to September 1^st as aspergillus spores had developed at the school due to exceptionally warm and humid conditions this summer and a power outage earlier this month caused a reset malfunction for the chiller.  Cleaning crews have been at the building to eliminate mold that was found in the building, but Superintendent Ralph Cecere says they are cleaning all the rooms on that wing as a precaution.  Senior project manager Keith Bailey with Servpro says that the project is bigger than first anticipated.

Bailey said that tests have been performed throughout the school, and they are hopeful that they can get things cleaned for teachers to come back and set up the classrooms for the first student day on September 1^st.

We are awaiting an update on the project’s timeline from District Superintendent Ralph Cecere. ]]> http://www.wccsradio.com/2026/08/28/more-mold-discovered-at-homer-center-elementary/feed/ 0 http://www.wccsradio.com/2026/08/28/man-charged-in-blairsville-chase-due-for-sentencing-today/ http://www.wccsradio.com/2026/08/28/man-charged-in-blairsville-chase-due-for-sentencing-today/#respond Fri, 28 Aug 2026 10:13:38 +0000 Josh Widdowson 2026-08-28T10:13:38+00:00 https://d1996.cms.socastsrm.com/?p=1376665

Court documents show 26-year-old Diymon Womble of Hagerstown, Maryland pleaded guilty to flight to avoid apprehension, fleeing or attempting to elude police, evading arrest or detention on foot, and reckless endangerment for an incident on March 24^th in Blairsville.  Borough police on that day saw him getting into his car on Veterans Drive.  He was wanted on a warrant out of Cambria County.  When police tried to stop him near a gas station on Villa Road and Route 22, Womble took off and lead police on a chase that ended on East Brown Street and Grandview Avenue when he lost control of his vehicle and hit a utility pole and some hedges.  He then went on a foot chase and was taken into custody at a home on Veterans Drive.

Also due for a sentencing hearing this morning is 36-year-old Steven McClurg, who was found guilty of simple assault and harassment in connection with a case in July of last year at a home in Washington Township.   Through their investigation, state troopers discovered that McClurg threw picture frames off the wall then assaulted the female victim.  Police reported injuries on her face and body. ]]> http://www.wccsradio.com/2026/08/28/man-charged-in-blairsville-chase-due-for-sentencing-today/feed/ 0 http://www.wccsradio.com/2026/08/28/planned-power-outage-for-part-of-center-township/ http://www.wccsradio.com/2026/08/28/planned-power-outage-for-part-of-center-township/#respond Fri, 28 Aug 2026 10:12:51 +0000 Josh Widdowson 2026-08-28T10:12:51+00:00 https://d1996.cms.socastsrm.com/?p=1376663

A planned power outage from Penelec has been scheduled for the area of Old Route 119 today from 9 AM to 3 PM.  This is to make sure that crews can make required upgrades to the system in a safe manner.

This will not affect our FM signal, so you’ll be able to hear WCCS at 101.1 FM and online at wccsradio.com ]]> http://www.wccsradio.com/2026/08/28/planned-power-outage-for-part-of-center-township/feed/ 0 http://www.wccsradio.com/2026/08/27/weiss-found-guilty-in-murder-re-trial/ http://www.wccsradio.com/2026/08/27/weiss-found-guilty-in-murder-re-trial/#respond Fri, 28 Aug 2026 00:26:46 +0000 Josh Widdowson 2026-08-28T11:47:55+00:00 https://d1996.cms.socastsrm.com/?p=1376658

After two days of testimony, the jury returned the guilty verdict against the 78-year-old Weiss at 7:00 Thursday night.  He was originally found guilty in 1997 for killing Bruzda in October of 1978 after playing pool with her at her father’s tavern in Tunnelton.  Her body was found buried beneath a pile of leaves in February of 1979.

In 2018, a federal judge overturned the verdict over prosecutorial misconduct by the state attorney general’s prosecutor and a state trooper who testified at the trial.   The State Supreme Court subsequently ruled that Weiss could be retried because the crime and the prosecutorial misconduct were separate matters.

Sentencing is scheduled for October 30th. ]]> http://www.wccsradio.com/2026/08/27/weiss-found-guilty-in-murder-re-trial/feed/ 0 http://www.wccsradio.com/2026/08/27/united-way-of-indiana-county-announces-750000-goal/ http://www.wccsradio.com/2026/08/27/united-way-of-indiana-county-announces-750000-goal/#respond Fri, 28 Aug 2026 00:21:49 +0000 Josh Widdowson 2026-08-28T00:28:51+00:00 https://d1996.cms.socastsrm.com/?p=1376653 The United Way of Indiana County kicked off the 2026-27 campaign with a special event at the Indiana County Conservation District and the future Challenger Learning Center.

(Campaign Chair Zach Hilliard and United Way Executive Director Joe Fishel pose with the goal of the 2026 campaign.  Photo by Josh Widdowson)

On top of rocket-based activities and a chance to see the conservation center up close, the organization announced a fundraising goal of $750,000 for this campaign.  Campaign Chairman Zach Hilliard said that he’s confident that the community can reach this lofty goal.

Upcoming events include the annual Pancake and Sausage Day on November 3rd, the Turkeython on November 20th and the annual Gala on January 30th of 2027.

Indiana Borough Police were joined by members of the Indiana County Drug Task Force and the FBI around 6:00 this morning at the home of 53-year-old Bradley John Harriett at 195 Water Street attempting to execute both an arrest and search warrant.  He did not show himself to officers on scene when they arrived, and and there was no threat communicated nor did he refuse to leave.  The incident came to an end at 9:20 AM when he was taken into custody.

Chief Justin Schawl said extra care was taken to make sure the community was safe as it was believed he had weapons in the house.

Chief Schawl praised the cooperation of all agencies involved.

Specifics on what was found inside the residence have not been released.

Harriett faces a single felony count of manufacture, delivery or possession of a controlled substance with intent to manufacture or deliver.  He was arraigned in front of District Judge Anthony Sottile and placed in Indiana County Jail on $50,000 bond.  A preliminary hearing is set for September 3^rd.

More information on the incident is expected to be released later today.

WHAT WAS FIRST REPORTED

Indiana Borough Police are asking people to avoid the intersection of 2nd and Water streets in Indiana Borough as operations are going on to serve warrants in the area.

Police chief Justin Schawl said that police and the FBI are attempting to serve search and arrest warrants at 195 Water Street, and are still active at that location.  They are asking drivers to avoid the intersection of 2nd and Water Streets as that area is closed off to traffic until further notice.  Chief Schawl said there is no threat to community safety as activity is focused on that specific area.  An update will be provided once activity has concluded in the area.

Indiana County 911 reported the structure fire on Brady Drive at 6:27 PM and sent the Indiana, Homer City, Coral-Graceton and Cherryhill Township fire departments along with Citizens’ Ambulance.  Indiana fire officials say heavy smoke was showing from the eaves of the single story house.  The fire started on the propane grill on a covered back porch and spread to the house and up into the eaves and eventually the attic.  Crews had to pull down ceilings throughout the house to get to the attic space where the fire was burning.

No injuries were reported.  One of the dogs the family had was rescued by the fire department and the other by the family.  The Red Cross and other family members are helping out the victims.

Court documents show that a preliminary hearing is set for today for 23-year-old Mason Dosch, who is charged with disseminating photos or film of child sex acts and unlawful dissemination of an intimate image.  The investigation goes back to January of this year when Indiana Borough Police say Dosch shared intimate photos and videos to multiple pornography websites and that he got the images when the victim was under the age of 18.  When police interviewed him, Dosch confessed to uploading the footage and that he was aware of her age when he took the photos and videos but did not think of her age when he uploaded the items.

Also on the agenda is the preliminary hearing for Jason McCausland of Home.  He is charged with strangulation, simple assault and harassment for an incident on August 23^rd.

Both hearings will be in front of District Judge Anthony Sottile.

The party to start the “Compassion in Action” campaign will be held at the Challenger Learning Center and the Conservation District facility in Indiana near the ICTC campus.  The event will bring together community members to help start the fundraising efforts and will also feature the reveal of this year’s fundraising goal.

Joe Fishel of the United Way talked about the importance of the kickoff event for the annual fundraising campaign.

There will be a basket raffle, a 50/50 drawing along with other hands-on activities related to both the conservation district and Challenger Learning Center.  Food will be provided by Fedder’s Grill and 9^th Street Deli, with Noble Stein and Disobedient Spirits providing beverages along with Honey Badger’s Baked Goods, Colton’s Cookies and The Baker’s Arms providing desserts.

Officers were sent out at 1:30 AM to a location in the 900 block of Oakland Avenue and found 18-year-old Domenic Sciubba of Tarentum and 19-year-old Owen Mettick had engaged in a fight that resulted in injuries.  Criminal complaints were filed against both men through District Judge Tony Sottile’s office.

That ordinance is now out for public review.  During public comment, there were comments both for and against some the changes, including a rule concerning covering the vehicle.  Township Manager Chris Anderson said they are still accepting comments from the public.

Supervisors also approved a bid of $647,009 from Traffic Control and Engineering of Bentleyville for the traffic signal replacement project at the intersection of Wayne Avenue and Indian Springs Road.  The township received two offers after a prior period brought no bids in.  Anderson said that they modified the project’s timeline to try to attract companies.

Blairsville Borough Police were called out around 10:30 PM to the Blue Diamond Bar on East Market Street and found 34-year-old Dylan Terney, 32-year-old Rachael Hoffer and 28-year-old Sydney Chisolm, all of Blairsville, were involved in the incident.

Terney and Hoffer were charged with ethnic intimidation, harassment, disorderly conduct and public drunkenness.  Terney was also charged with simple assault and criminal mischief.  Chisolm was charged with simple assault, harassment, disorderly conduct and public intoxication.  The charges were filed with District Judge Robert Bell, Sr.

The motion was made by Sherene Hess and while it passed unanimously, Commissioner Bonni Dunlap says that she is against the ordinance.  She feels that the ordinance would not be enforceable.

All three county commissioners have said that they have not signed any NDA’s for any reason.

Byron Stauffer was also on hand to provide a progress report for the Subdivision And Land Development Ordinance Update.  He says that they want to be very thorough about the process for any modifications, and if things go well, they are looking at holding a final approval vote in November.

The commissioners also approved a change order of $7,218 for the YMCA of Indiana County project to cover the cost of cutting through an existing concrete slab, excavating and adding PVC drains to serve the walk-in cooler and sinks in the kitchen.  A second change order approved was for the Old Courthouse Roof Replacement project for a 30-day extension of the completion date.  That will come at no cost to the county.

On June 28^th, Indiana Borough police were investigating a domestic incident on North Cherry Avenue when Andrew Herman threatened officers with a shovel.  He eventually dropped the shovel and fled, starting a foot chase that ended when he pulled a pocketknife and stabbed the officer.  Manzi said the officer tried to use a taser to bring Herman into custody, but it did not work.

Manzi added that he was happy with the thoroughness of the investigation performed by State Police.

The officer has been on administrative leave since the shooting, but Indiana Borough Police Chief Justin Schawl said that the officer has healed from their injuries and will be restored to active duty once administrative leave is complete.

To read statements from Chief Schawl and D.A. Manzi, click here for further coverage.

State police say that 42-year-old Joseph Wissinger was wanted on two arrest warrants.  One was issued for charges of simple assault, false imprisonment and harassment after a domestic incident at a home in Burrell Township on August 16^th.  The second was related to charges filed on August 19^th on weapons possession violations.  In that incident, Wissinger was found to have been in possession of a rifle, an altered shotgun, a handgun and various ammunition which was seized from a parked an unattended vehicle the day before.

Members of the State Police Fugitive Task Force arrested Wissinger at a home in Center Township on Tuesday.  Bail was set at $25,000 for the assault case and $100,000 for the firearms case.  He remains in Indiana County Jail as he awaits a preliminary hearing in front of District Judge Christopher Welch on September 14^th.

On this day in 1926, two explosions ripped through the Sample Run mine, killing 44 men.  Four people were rescued and nine workers near the opening escaped without injury.  In an interview on Indiana in the Morning, Herb Gleditsch with the Historical and Genealogical Society goes into the details of how the explosion happened.

The disaster is considered the largest mining disaster as far as death is concerned in Indiana County History.  One of the event’s organizers, Jack Hanna, said that it’s an important event that needs to be acknowledged.

The event will be held today starting at noon at the Clymer Borough Building on South Sixth Street where a memorial marker currently stands.

The issue is with non-disclosure agreements and county policy concerning them.  Those against the construction of the natural gas-fired power plant and the possible installation of an Amazon Data Center in Center Township have asked the county to adopt an ordinance that would prohibit county officials signing NDA’s with private entities or individuals.

The proposed ordinance has garnered support of local environmentalists, including the Pennsylvania Chapter of the Sierra Club, who have sent a letter to the Indiana County Commissioners.  In that letter, they say that “AI data centers typically consume large amounts of land and water, and produce constant noise,” and put a strain on the electricity grid.  They also say that NDA’s are “a frustrating barrier to public understanding and involvement in decisions that can have a profound effect on their communities.”

The Commissioners meeting will be held at 10:30 this morning at the Commissioners meeting room on the second floor.  We will have that meeting live on our Facebook page.

In a statement, Regina Geesey said that the district’s maintenance department had been monitoring humidity levels at all the buildings due to the unseasonable humid weather.  While no black mold was found at any of the buildings, white mold was found on carpeting and chairs in some of the classrooms at the elementary schools.  The district then worked with Fagan Sanitary Supply, the district’s janitorial materials supplier, to remove the affected items and perform a thorough cleaning of the building.  

Based on the completed inspection and remediation efforts, the district is satisfied that the building is safe for occupancy.  River Valley opened the school year this morning.

This marks the second district in the county to announce problems with mold.  Homer-Center discovered mold in the elementary classrooms and they are undergoing a deep cleaning and other remediation efforts.  That has delayed the start of classes to September 1st.

Local police had been investigating a domestic incident involving Andrew Herman and his girlfriend in the 100 Block of North Cherry Avenue.  When she reportedly told him that she was breaking up with him, he tried to stop her, and tried to force open a door.  He then picked up a shovel and threatened one of the responding officers, but he eventually dropped the shovel and fled.  When the officer caught up with him, Herman drew a pocketknife and stabbed the officer.  The officer tried using a taser, but when that did not work and Herman continued to stab the officer multiple times, the officer drew his gun and fired one shot, fatally striking him in the head.

State police conducted the investigation into the shooting.  It was determined that the officer tried to use a less-than-lethal option and then fired one shot to prevent Herman from killing him.  The DA’s office will not take further action on the case.

You can read the full statement from the DA’s office by clicking on the link below.

Press Release – Use of Force Justified

In his own statement, Indiana Borough Police Chief Justin Schawl said that the officer has recovered from the attack and has been on administrative leave while the investigation was going on.  Schawl said that when he is ready and on conclusion of administrative leave, he will return to full duty.  While he feels grateful the officer has recovered, he feels grief over the fatal shooting.  He also said he appreciated the help of all the assisting agencies, including state and IUP police, Citizens’ Ambulance, IRMC and police from Blairsville and Homer City.

You can read the chief’s statement below.

Chiefs Message to the community 8.25.26

Officers were called to a home in the 300 block of Nixon Avenue on August 9^th where the victim reported that pots of various sizes and styles that had plants in them were taken from a home between 7 AM and 2 PM that day.  Anyone with information on the theft can call Indiana Borough Police at 724-349-2121. ]]> http://www.wccsradio.com/2026/08/25/indiana-borough-police-looking-for-suspect-in-theft-of-plants/feed/ 0 http://www.wccsradio.com/2026/08/25/weiss-retrial-to-start-today/ http://www.wccsradio.com/2026/08/25/weiss-retrial-to-start-today/#respond Tue, 25 Aug 2026 10:19:52 +0000 Josh Widdowson 2026-08-25T10:19:52+00:00 https://d1996.cms.socastsrm.com/?p=1376523

Weiss was already convicted once of killing 16-year-old Barbara Bruzda in October 1978 at her father’s bar in Tunnelton.  Her body was discovered buried beneath some leaves the following February and in 1997, Weiss was found guilty of beating her to death with a tire iron.  A key part of the prosecution’s case was the testimony of Weiss’s former common-law wife, who took the stand against him after state law changed to allow spouses to testify against each other.

Weiss blamed Bruzda’s death on his ex-wife’s brothers, who he said beat him and killed the teenager.

The conviction was overturned in 2018 based on misconduct by the state attorney general’s prosecution, which claimed no special treatment had been given to two prison inmates who testified against Weiss, when they clearly had been given special treatment.

In court yesterday, Judge Bianco clarified for the defense his prior ruling on the use of testimony from the original trial.  The jury was quickly seated and the trial is schedule to begin this morning.

Meanwhile the group “Justice for Barbie Bruzda” is encouraging supporters to come together and to “raise their voices for Barbie inside and outside the courthouse.” ]]> http://www.wccsradio.com/2026/08/25/weiss-retrial-to-start-today/feed/ 0 http://www.wccsradio.com/2026/08/25/gas-price-averages-increase-over-last-week/ http://www.wccsradio.com/2026/08/25/gas-price-averages-increase-over-last-week/#respond Tue, 25 Aug 2026 10:18:54 +0000 Josh Widdowson 2026-08-25T10:18:54+00:00 https://d1996.cms.socastsrm.com/?p=1376521

The current average cost per gallon in Pennsylvania this morning according to Triple A is $4.18, an increase of 11 cents over the last week, but still lower than last month when it was $4.23.  The national average saw an increase of three cents to $4.09.

Indiana County’s average went up by 23 cents over the week to $4.34 a gallon.  Across the region, Jefferson had the lowest average at $4.26, with Armstrong’s average coming in at $4.32.  Westmoreland, Cambria and Clearfield Counties all checked in with an average cost of $4.36 this morning.

Gas prices in Indiana and Blairsville are around $4.39 a gallon this morning.  In Homer City, Sheetz is at $4.39, while Kwik Fill reports a price of $4.29 and Accent Fuels at $4.19. ]]> http://www.wccsradio.com/2026/08/25/gas-price-averages-increase-over-last-week/feed/ 0 http://www.wccsradio.com/2026/08/24/fire-guts-home-in-burrell-township-monday-night/ http://www.wccsradio.com/2026/08/24/fire-guts-home-in-burrell-township-monday-night/#respond Tue, 25 Aug 2026 02:22:28 +0000 Josh Widdowson 2026-08-25T02:22:28+00:00 https://d1996.cms.socastsrm.com/?p=1376501 No injuries were reported for a fire in Black Lick Township Monday night.

(Left picture courtesy Indiana, PA and Surrounding Areas Scanner Radio. Right picture by Josh Widdowson)

Indiana County 911 sent Black Lick, Blairsville, Coral-Graceton and Homer City firefighters along with the RIG team and Citizens’ Ambulance.  Black Lick fire chief Josh Hutcheson described the scene when he arrived.

Clyde, Brush Valley, Aultman and Black Lick fire companies went on standby detail.  No one was home at the time of the fire.  The house is completely gutted.  The cause of the fire remains unknown, but state police fire marshals are investigating.

Rob Heinrich was invited to join the Forum for Western Pennsylvania Superintendents, which was founded by the University of Pittsburgh in 1994.  They meet twice a year to discuss advocacy for children and youth, collaboration and congeniality among school leaders, mentoring new school leaders, and to learn more about their profession.  Heinrich said it was a great honor as only a few superintendents are invited to be members.  That sentiment was echoed by board member Josh Muscatello.

To help, the board approved paying the membership fee for the Forum for Western PA Superintendents instead of three other organizations, per Heinrich’s contract.

The board also approved a tax appeal settlement for S&T Bank for a fair market value of $7 million.  The recommendation came from the administration and district solicitor.

The domestic security checks will be conducted across the Troop A region, which includes Indiana, Westmoreland, Somerset and Cambria Counties.  These checks may involve walk-throughs of the schools and troopers eating lunch with students.

Troopers will also monitor roadways as buses pick up and drop off students in the mornings and afternoons.  They will specifically monitor for violations of rules that prohibit meeting or overtaking a school bus in the process of picking up children.  Anyone convicted is subject to a $250 fine.

The credit of $6.13 for all active water customers was made possible through the state Public Utility Commission approval of PAWC’s PFAS Litigation Universal Credit Rider, which allows the company to provide settlement proceeds directly to customers as they are received.  Including the most recent credit that was handed out late last month, customers have received $36.89 apiece in PFAS-related settlements.

According to a statement, the company remains in compliance with current PFAS drinking water standards and has completed treatment upgrades in several communities.  They plan on spending about $321 million to expand treatments across multiple water systems throughout the state. ]]> http://www.wccsradio.com/2026/08/24/pa-american-water-announces-credit-for-pfas-chemical-settlement/feed/ 0 http://www.wccsradio.com/2026/08/24/one-hurt-in-crash-this-morning-near-indiana-county-ymca/ http://www.wccsradio.com/2026/08/24/one-hurt-in-crash-this-morning-near-indiana-county-ymca/#respond Mon, 24 Aug 2026 15:06:33 +0000 2026-08-24T15:06:43+00:00 https://d1996.cms.socastsrm.com/?p=1376485

The crash was reported in the 8:00 AM hour at the intersection of Philadelphia Street and Ben Franklin Road.  Indiana Fire Association officials were sent to the scene and found two vehicles involved in a T-bone style collision.

One person was hurt and they were taken to IRMC for treatment of unknown injuries.  One vehicle had to be towed while the other one was able to drive away. ]]> http://www.wccsradio.com/2026/08/24/one-hurt-in-crash-this-morning-near-indiana-county-ymca/feed/ 0 http://www.wccsradio.com/2026/08/24/signs-on-pedestrian-bridge-placed-to-protest-data-center-power-plant/ http://www.wccsradio.com/2026/08/24/signs-on-pedestrian-bridge-placed-to-protest-data-center-power-plant/#respond Mon, 24 Aug 2026 10:21:11 +0000 2026-08-24T10:21:11+00:00 https://d1996.cms.socastsrm.com/?p=1376481 Four advocacy groups teamed up on Sunday to post signs on the new Route 22 pedestrian bridge in Burrell Township protesting the potential arrival of a data center to Indiana County.

(Photo courtesy Concerned Residents of Western PA)

Signs reading “No Data Centers”, “No Amazon” and “People Over Profit” were hung from the bridge Sunday by the groups Concerned Residents of Western PA and Unite Armstrong along with Indiana County Common Good.  The three were supported by the Pittsburgh Overpass Project in putting the signs up.  They are part of an ongoing effort to show community opposition to the natural gas-fueled power plant and a proposed data center in Center Township.  In a statement, ICCG member Danielle Morganti said that “It is critical that we continue to be loud and visible about our opposition,” about data centers coming to the area and that the groups “will not stop fighting to protect our land, air, water and health.”

It was announced this month that Amazon was considering the Homer City Redevelopment site as a location for a future data center that would be powered by energy generated by the new power plant.

CROW is planning an anti-data center rally on September 12^th at IRMC Park in Indiana.

The first was reported at 1:32 PM for a carbon monoxide alarm activation on Keats Way in White Township that sent the Indiana Fire Association members to the scene.  IFA members would be sent out at 7:18 PM for a gas leak on Wayne Avenue.

At 11:29 last night, there were two reports of utility lines down.  One along Locust Lane in Canoe Township that brought the Rossiter Fire Department, and the other was on Tunnelton Road in Conemaugh Township that sent Tunnelton firefighters to the scene.

Troopers say on August 20^th, a tractor trailer driven by 34-year-old Charles Bundy of Penfield was driving on Route 210 when he did not negotiate a left turn cleanly and the front end started to slide.  Bundy tried to correct but was unable to regain control and the truck hit an REA utility pole, bringing down live utility wires.

Bundy was not injured but was charged with not driving on roads laned for traffic.  Police were assisted by Plumville fire department on-scene.

Police reported that around 12:45 AM, a college-aged woman ran into a college-aged man on campus and the man appeared to have a handgun with him.  The two spoke briefly before the man was called away by others.  Officers said that the woman was not threatened with the gun, nor was it ever pointed at her.  No other similar incidents were reported for the rest of the overnight hours.

The man was described as wearing jeans and having curly hair.  The woman was not identified.

The investigation into the incident is continuing, and police are asking for video from the area to help.  Anyone with information is asked to call police at 724-349-2121.

Meanwhile, IUP representatives say they are aware of the situation and will assist police, but it was determined that there was no emergency situation and did not activate the emergency contact system.  IUP Police did issue a statement to students, providing personal safety tips for students, including:

• Stay aware of your surroundings.
• Do not admit strangers into your residence hall.
• Trust your instincts. If you feel unsafe, get to a safe place and call for help.
• Avoid confrontations.
• Stay in well-lit public areas.

They also gave out several phone numbers for students to use if they do get in trouble.

• University Police: 724-357-2141
• IUP Health Service: 724-357-2550
• Counseling Center: 724-357-2621
• Haven Project: 724-357-3947
• Crisis Intervention 24/7 Hotline: 988 or 1-877-333-2470
• Alice Paul House 24/7 Hotline: 724-349-4444
• Students can also call 911 or go to a nearby Emergency room

An air quality testing agency is conducting air quality tests in every classroom, and ServPro has been contracted to clean every classroom, after which the air quality will be tested again. Cecere explains what happened.

The chiller has been adjusted to run constantly and the district is working with their mechanical contractor to make the chiller reset automatically in the event of another outage.

The superintendent posted the video on Saturday.  He outlines the process that is already underway, and the desire to get students back in the classroom safely.

The elementary school building will be closed to all until its declared safe to go back in, and while the high school is not affected by mold, the start of the school year for the entire district will be delayed, and that includes CTC students.

Here is the link for Superintendent Ralph Cecere’s statement:

DelayedStartofSchool-August222026

Here is the link for the video posted by the superintendent on Saturday:

https://app.screencastify.com/watch/wTWVnr27Il18vUhLOBSP

The 78-year-old Weiss is accused of killing 16-year-old Barbara Bruzda after playing pool with her at her father’s tavern in Tunnelton in October of 1978.  Her body was found buried beneath leaves the following February.

Weiss was found guilty of the crime in 1997 after state law changed to allow spouses to be witnesses against each other, allowing his common law wife to testify.  But in 2018, a federal judge overturned the verdict based on misconduct by the state attorney general’s prosecutor and a state trooper who testified at the trial.   The State Supreme Court subsequently ruled that Weiss could be retried because the crime and the prosecutorial misconduct were separate matters.  There have been five attempts at retrial since then.

The latest pretrial matters settled by President Judge Thomas Bianco have been over the use of the testimony from the original trial, with the prosecution asking the judge to clarify his ruling on Thursday.

Five other trials were scheduled to get underway tomorrow as well, but they have either been pled out or continued.

Homer-Center announced on Saturday that it will postpone the start of school until September 1^st  or possibly longer, due to mold spores discovered at the district’s elementary school.

ICTC’s first student day is Thursday.

The Indiana Area school board will meet Monday night to firm up some professional service agreements, fill a secondary school social studies teaching vacancy and some other personnel positions, and handle some other decisions to start the school year.  There is also a motion to approve a tax appeal settlement with S&T Bank for a fair market value of $7 million.

ICTC’s Joint Operating Committee meets on Tuesday.

United’s school board is now advertising their vacancy, to finish the term of Hunter Overdorff, who resigned this month after being elected chairman of the Indiana County Republican Committee.  Applicants must reside in Region 1, which covers Brush Valley and Buffington townships.  Interviews will be conducted with the board at its work session on September 1^st.  It’s a short-term appointment.  The term expires on the first Monday of December, with the position on the November election ballot.

IUP Day is Thursday. It’s the school’s largest student involvement fair, offering opportunities to join intramurals, fraternities and sororities, academic clubs and other student-led groups.  It will be held at the HUB, in the Atrium and the River Rooms.

Homecoming is the weekend of October 10^th.  Winter commencement is December 12^th.

The beginning of the new academic year also signals the countdown to next year’s first classes for the College of Osteopathic Medicine, which is in the midst of a busy year of preparation for IUP to become Pennsylvania’s first public university to offer the program.   The other three osteopathic medicine universities in the state (Philadelphia, Duquesne, and Lake Erie) are all private institutions.

Currently in pre-accreditation status, IUP has already secured 290 percent of the required clinical training affiliation agreements needed for accreditation.