New Castle Daily Brief

Here is a quick look at what’s happening in and around New Castle as the weekend rolls on.

Remembering neighbors we’ve lost

The community is reflecting on the lives of several longtime residents whose passing was reported this week. Madeline “Lana” Helen Demofonte Conti Rice, a New Castle High graduate and longtime hairdresser who ran Towne Mall Beauty Salon, died on Thursday at a local care center after a lifetime of family, work, and service in the city.

Services are also scheduled Monday for Chester John “Chet” Chichin, a Navy veteran with strong ties to Holy Spirit Parish. Calling hours will be held in New Castle before a Mass of Christian burial, with local honor guard members providing military rites.

Another obituary notes arrangements for John P. Cwynar, with visitation and a blessing service planned Monday afternoon at a Mill Street funeral home, followed by burial in a local cemetery. Friends and neighbors are being encouraged to share memories and condolences with each family.

Cold, bright winter weekend

After light snow and bitter wind chills across western Pennsylvania Friday night, residents can expect another very cold but mostly clear day, with “feels-like” readings staying well below freezing at times. Regional forecasters have highlighted the risk of rapidly changing visibility in snow showers and urged drivers to slow down and use extra caution on area highways.

Daylight is slowly stretching out again. In New Castle, sunrise on Saturday comes just before 7:25 a.m., with sunset a little before 5:50 p.m., giving the city just over ten hours of midwinter daylight to work with.

Around Lawrence County government

The county government center is looking ahead to a busy February, with commissioners meetings and special recycling events already posted on the public calendar. Residents can also find online tools for marriage licenses, property searches, tax payments, and probate services through the county’s main website, which continues to add more digital self-service options.

Court officials have also posted advance notice that several motions court sessions later this month will be canceled, asking attorneys and residents to contact court administration in the event of emergencies on those days. Anyone with business before the courts is encouraged to double-check schedules before traveling downtown.

Sources

• https://obituaries.ncnewsonline.com/obituary/madeline-rice-1093493060
• https://obituaries.ncnewsonline.com/obituary/chester-chichin-1093491623
• https://obituaries.ncnewsonline.com/obituary/john-cwynar-1093493100
• https://www.wtae.com/article/pennsylvania-snow-squall-warning-february-6/70273249
• https://sunrise-sunset.org/us/new-castle-pa
• https://www.lawrencecountypa.gov/