BACKYARD BROADCASTING, LOCAL NEWS NOVEMBER 24, 2021

10-YEAR CONTRACT FOR PSU FOOTBALL COACH

Penn State football coach James Franklin agreed to a new 10-year contract Tuesday that will guarantee him at least $75 million through 2031. Franklin and Penn State’s Board of Trustees agreed to the terms, which include a yearly base salary of $7 million, retention bonuses of $500,000 each year and a $1 million annual loan for life insurance. Franklin is 67-32 at Penn State with seven bowl appearances in his eight seasons. The Nittany Lions won the Big Ten championship in 2016. A Pennsylvania native who called the Penn State gig his “dream job” when he was hired away from Vanderbilt in 2014 will coach his 100th game at Penn State when the Nittany Lions visit No. 12 Michigan State on Saturday. Franklin previously signed a six-year deal in 2019. The terms of that contract would’ve had him earn $5.75 million next season with a $250,000 raise each remaining year.

PENNSYLVANIA’S UNEMPLOYMENT RATE FELL

Pennsylvania’s unemployment rate fell for the eighth month in a row in October, according to new state figures, as payrolls grew but the labor force shrank amid an ongoing struggle for employers struggle to find workers. Pennsylvania’s unemployment rate dropped two-tenths of a percentage point to 6% from September’s rate, according to state Department of Labor and Industry figures released Friday. The national rate was 4.6% in October, and Pennsylvania lags most other states, tied at 40th among 50.

UPDATED COVID-19 CASES FOR OUR AREA

The Pennsylvania Department of Health on Tuesday reported new COVID-19 cases Clinton County reported 20 new cases. In Centre County 61 new cases. Lycoming County added 45 new cases. There were 41 in Northumberland County, 21 in Snyder, 20 in Union, 12 in Montour. Tioga County had 19 new covid-19 cases reported yesterday.

RACE CONCEDED FOR PA COMMONWEALTH COURT

The Republican candidate trailing in a statewide recount for an open seat on Pennsylvania’s Commonwealth Court conceded the race on Tuesday to Democrat Lori Dumas. On Twitter, Drew Crompton congratulated Dumas and the other winners in the judicial races that were on the statewide ballot in Pennsylvania’s Nov. 2 election. Republicans won three of four statewide judicial races on the Nov. 2 ballot. A statewide recount in the Commonwealth Court race was mandated after Dumas’ finished within a half-percentage point ahead of Crompton, according to unofficial returns posted online by the state Department of State.

COURT DENIES EMPLOYEES REQUEST TO AVOID COVID-19 TESTING BY EMPLOYEER

Over 100 Geisinger employees were denied their request to keep Geisinger Medical Center from conducting twice-weekly testing for COVID-19 by a federal judge on Tuesday. Although those employees had previously received religious exemptions from the COVID-19 mandate at Geisinger, they were still required to participate in the periodic testing or face possible termination. Chief U.S. District Judge Matthew Brawn released a 30-page order which explained that the employees’ complaints lacked the merit necessary to obtain his ruling. According to Geisinger Medical Center, “Employees have until 11:59 p.m. (Tuesday night) to submit their test results. Employees who do not accept the accommodation to meet the COVID-19 vaccine requirement with regular testing will voluntarily resign on Wednesday, Nov. 24,” as reported by the Daily Item. A Nov. 1 deadline passed with 24,000 employees who complied and 150 fired at that time for not adhering to the mandate.

STOLEN VEHICLE LEADS TO PURSUIT AND CRASH

A driver in a stolen vehicle attempted to elude state police in Sunbury. The pursuit ended in a crash in the area of Purdy Street, according to the Daily Item.  Troopers reported one individual fled the scene on foot, while the other was taken into custody. State police report the investigation is still ongoing.

ROVING DUI PATROLS AND SOBRIETY CHECKPOINTS IN NORTHUMBERLAND COUNTY

Police are monitoring highways with both roving DUI patrols and sobriety checkpoints through Sunday night. According to an online media source, the regional Highway Safety Network is set to target several roads in the valley. Some of these are in Northumberland County and they include Route 61, 147, 225, 901, 125, 54 and 487.

GEISINGER RECEIVES DESIGNATIONS DUE TO MILITARY CARE/EMPLOYEES

Geisinger has been recognized for its continued support of military veterans and active service members and has received  two recent designations. The Pennsylvania-based health organization was recognized by Military Times on its 2021 Best for Vets: Employers rankings and earned the 2022 Military Friendly® Employer designation by VIQTORY. Both honors recognize Geisinger’s commitment and efforts to building programs and opportunities for military veterans. Geisinger employs more than 700 active-duty service members and veterans throughout the system.

UPMC FINANCIALS OVER FIRST 9 MONTHS OF 2021

UPMC’s continuously strong financial results for the first nine months of 2021 underpin its robust investment in caring for its 92,000 employees as well as the growing number of patients throughout all the communities UPMC serves during the still-evolving COVID-19 pandemic. Compared to the same period a year ago, UPMC outpatient revenue increased 17%, while physician services revenue grew 12%; admissions and observations increased by 5%. UPMC’s earnings before interest, depreciation and amortization (operating EBIDA)—a key measure of financial performance and the ability to generate the necessary resources for reinvestment—were $1.3 billion.

INDECENT ASSAULT TO 6 YEAR OLD CHILD

A Montgomery man indecently assaulted a child as young as 6 years old.  Charles Adams, 38, of Montgomery, is said to have touched the girl inappropriately when she was six and 10 years old. Prosecutors charged Adams with 336 counts related to sexual abuse of children according to SUN Gazette. District Judge John Kemp pondered the charges and opted to hold over some charges which he saw could be accounted for, before reserving a decision on the rest of the counts until another time. Then, on June 2nd, District Judge Jerry Lepley arraigned Adams, who is out on $75,000 bail.

HANDGUN CHARGES TO TAYLOR PLACE MAN

A man with a handgun was chasing a woman through the 1600 block of Taylor Place Tuesday afternoon. Neighbors reported the screaming could be heard throughout the neighborhood. According to Sun Gazette, Keven Geter was apprehended at gunpoint. He was subsequently searched and  a stolen handgun in his pants pocket. There was no information as to the name or condition of the woman. Geter was arraigned in front of District Judge Christian Frey on multiple charges including felony charges of carrying a firearm without a license. He was committed, in lieu of $125,000 bail, to the Lycoming County Prison.

MEETING TO DETERMINE USES OF AMERICAN RESCUE PLAN FUNDING

Potential projects for the Williamsport city’s portion of the $25.5 million in American Rescue Plan funding include the Brandon Park baseball fields, a flood-control project for Grafius Run, levee recertification required repairs and the replacement of multiple fire engines for the Williamsport Bureau of Fire.  Williamsport City Council met during a third work session on Monday to discuss and debate the proper uses for the American Rescue Plan funds. As their meetings stack up, the City Council will hold budget meetings Nov. 29th and Dec. 1 at 7pm. A council meeting is scheduled for 7 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 2.

 

OLD CITY STREET RECONSTRUCTION

Rebuilding East Fourth Street, from Basin to Mulberry Streets and Campbell Street, from West Third to West Fourth Streets is known as Old City Street reconstruction and a price tag to the city of Williamsport of $906,475 in a Multi-Modal Transportation Grant obtained because of the dedicated work of the commonwealth finance authority.

REAL ESTATE HIKE IN LOCK HAVEN CITY

$200,000 in real estate tax income is needed to secure the balanced budget for Lock Haven City Council in 2022. The hike needs to be approved by city council at the Dec 6th meeting. It sits to be the first real estate levy in the last 6 years.

 

THANKSGIVING TRAVEL

With the busy holiday travel period just around the corner, the Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission (PTC), Pennsylvania State Police (PSP), and Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) came together outside of PTC’s headquarters in Harrisburg to remind drivers of the importance of safe driving and consistent seat belt use. The Pennsylvania Turnpike expects Thanksgiving to be the busiest travel holiday of the year with 3.15 million motorists traveling during the six-day period starting today and ending on Sunday. The periods of heaviest traffic will be 3:00 to 8:00 PM on Tuesday, November 23 and Wednesday, November 24. Thanksgiving Day is when traffic will be at its lightest. Overall, holiday traffic is up 39 percent over the same travel period last year; however, traffic is still down 9 percent from 2019 holiday traffic volumes prior to the pandemic.

OPERATION SAFE HOLIDAY

Operation Safe Holiday kicked off on November 15 with the “Click It or Ticket” Thanksgiving enforcement mobilization which runs through November 28. During the effort, PSP will offer no-cost child passenger safety seat fitting clinics at several locations statewide, with the goal of keeping Pennsylvania’s youngest travelers safe on the road.

BACKYARD BROADCASTING, LOCAL NEWS NOVEMBER 23, 2021

ATTEMPTED AGGRAVATED ASSAULT ON TROOPERS

A Danville man almost struck two state troopers with his truck and then leading them on a high-speed pursuit.  On Wednesday, Jarrett Lee Castelonia has been charged with upwards of 22 offenses stemming from the chase along Snydertown Road. Castelonia has been committed, in lieu of $25,000 cash bail, to Northumberland County Jail, according to an online media outlet.

LITTER ACTION PLAN FROM THE WOLF ADMINISTRATION

Governor Tom Wolf, the state secretaries for the departments of Transportation and Environmental Protection joined other administration and community stakeholders today to highlight innovative local anti-littering measures and called for action to combat Pennsylvania’s litter-problem at all levels statewide. The Wolf Administration released the state’s first-ever Litter Action Plan (PDF)–which reflects the work of more than 100 stakeholders from state and local government, businesses, the legislature, and more–and includes both current initiatives and recommendations to clean up the more than 500 million pieces of litter scattered throughout the commonwealth.

COVID-19 VACCINE BOOSTERS OPEN TO ALL ADULTS

 

Geisinger is offering booster doses of the COVID-19 vaccines for all adults.  People can get their booster dose of the Moderna or Pfizer vaccine beginning six months after receiving their second dose. The booster dose of the Moderna COVID-19 vaccine is half of a single dose (0.25 milliliters). The booster dose of the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine is the same dosage (0.3 milliliters) as a single dose. People who received the Johnson & Johnson COVID-19 vaccine are eligible to receive a booster dose of any of the COVID-19 vaccines two months after their initial J&J dose.

DEER SEASON IN PENNSYLVANIA

Pennsylvania’s upcoming firearms deer season – always the most popular on the hunting calendar – features abundant whitetails and increased flexibility in when and where hunters can harvest them. The 14-day 2021 statewide firearms season is designed to maximize flexibility, in three ways. First, it begins on Saturday, Nov. 27, and continues on Sunday, Nov. 28, providing hunters – many off work or school – a full weekend to be afield. Deer season then runs through Dec. 11, closing only on Sunday, Dec. 5. Second, hunters with the proper licenses can harvest either an antlered or antlerless deer at any time throughout the season anywhere in the state. And third, the Game Commission this year made it possible for hunters willing to use antlerless tags to get more of them if the allocation hasn’t been sold out.

 

AMERICAN RESCULE PLAN FEDERAL FUNDING TO MEDICAID

Governor Tom Wolf today announced the spending plan for approximately $1.2 billion in American Rescue Plan Act federal funding to support Medicaid’s home and community-based services (HCBS) system throughout the commonwealth, allowing more Pennsylvanians the access to critical services in their communities. The temporary funding enhancement will be directed toward Medicaid-funded essential care services to seniors, adults with intellectual and physical disabilities, adults with behavioral health needs such as substance use disorder or mental illness, and children with chronic complex medical needs.

LOCAL UPDATE COVID-19 CASES

The Pennsylvania Department of Health on Monday reported new COVID-19 cases.Clinton County reported 13 new cases. Lycoming County added 104 new cases. There were 63 in Northumberland County, 20 in Union, 17 in Snyder and 10 in Montour. Tioga County has reported 9 new covid-19 cases yesterday.

 

TRAFFIC ACCIDENT UNDER INVESTIGATION

The morning commute came to a screeching halt yesterday for several hours, as both lanes of Interstate 80 were blocked in Northumberland and Montour County due to an accident involving two tractor-trailers in the area of Mile Marker 222. According to an online news outlet, no injuries were reported and the accident remains under investigation.

 

INSIDE THEIR NEW OFFICE IN DECEMBER

Sunbury Police Department will be finally inside their new Arch Street office in December. Sunbury Police Chief Brad Hare told City Council members last night. The fully functional facility will offer officers patrolman rooms, interview rooms and more. According to the Daily Item, the building will be open for public viewing at the beginning of 2022.

SENATE BILL 248 SIGNED BY GOVERNOR TOM WOLF

Governor Tom Wolf  signed into law Senate Bill 248 provides for the following holidays and observances in Pennsylvania: March 6 of each year is designated as “Persian Gulf War Veterans Day,” October 7 of each year is designated as “Global War on Terrorism Veterans Day,” and September 27 of each year as “First Responders Day.”

IN-PERSON COMMENCEMENT FOR BUCKNELL

A traditional in-person commencement will be held for graduates of the class of 2020 at Bucknell University. The ceremony will be at 10am on Saturday, May 21, on Malesardi Quadrangle. Graduates of 2020 participated in Bucknell’s first ever “Online Commencement Celebration” after their in-person ceremony was cancelled due to the COVID-19 pandemic. According to an online media outlet, the graduating class of 2022 will hold their Commencement, May 22 at 10am on Malesardi Quadrangle.

BACKYARD BROADCASTING, LOCAL NEWS NOVEMBER 22, 2021

OVER $1.5 MILLION TO HELP LYCOMING COUNTY

$1.65 million has been presented to different Lycoming County projects through multiple state authority grants.  Sen. Gene Yaw joined state Reps. Jeff Wheeland and Reps. Joe Hamm in support of the Commonwealth Financing Authority Grants. Over of $900,000 was provided to Williamsport to improve both Campbell and Fourth Streets in safety and appearance through the multimodal transportation fund grant. Other projects set to receive funds are the Greenway Trail project in Jersey Shore, Warrensville Road in Eldred Township and the Lycoming Biology Field Station Inc. in Upper Fairfield Township.

 

LOCAL COVID-19 CASES

The Pennsylvania Department of Health on Sunday reported new COVID-19 cases. Clinton County reported 35 new cases. In Centre County 74 new cases were recorded. Lycoming County added 91 new cases. There were 61 in Northumberland County, 16 in Union, 11 in Montour and eight in Snyder.  Tioga County had 37 new covid-19 cases reported yesterday.

 

NEWLY SWORN AT WILLIAMSPORT BUREAU OF POLICE

The Williamsport Bureau of Police is pleased to announce that this morning at 10:00 Police Officer Nathan Kendall was officially sworn in with the Williamsport Bureau of Police. PO Kendall’s addition to the police department brings Williamsport Police compliment to 47 sworn police officers. PO Kendall will begin his Field Training next week. Williamsport Bureau of Police congratulates PO Kendall on beginning his journey as a Williamsport City Police Officer!

FATALITY ON GOLDEN STRIP IDENTIFIED

The Lycoming County Coroner’s Office is investigating the fatal crash with PA State Police in the 1900 block of East Third St..  Ronald Wagner was pronounced dead on arrival at the emergency room at UPMC Susquehanna Williamsport Hospital.  Mr. Wagner was traveling east on East Third St. striking another vehicle from behind in the 1900 block of East Third St. in Loyalsock Twp.  Mr. Wagner was unrestrained and found to be in cardiac arrest due to multiple blunt force trauma at the time of impact.  Resuscitative efforts were continued while in route to the emergency room without successful resuscitation being pronounced dead at 5:06 PM.

PennDOT Driver License, Photo Centers Closed for Thanksgiving Holiday

The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) announced that all driver license and photo centers, including the Riverfront Office Center in Harrisburg, will be closed Thursday, November 25, and Friday, November 26, in observance of the Thanksgiving holiday.

Customers may still obtain a variety of driver and vehicle products and services, including all forms, publications and driver training manuals, online through PennDOT’s Driver and Vehicle Services website, www.dmv.pa.gov.

DRIVING UNDER THE INFLUENCE IN WATSONTOWN

A Watsontown man was sleeping behind the wheel of his running vehicle on Main Street in Watsontown.  Watsontown Police have charged Yuriy Gussev, of Watsontown, when on October 23, at 12:40 A.M. when, after chemical testing, he had a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of .163%.  Gussev has been charged with two counts of Driving Under the Influence.

 

STABBING AT ARM BAR IN MILTON LEADS TO CHARGES

A stabbing at a bar in Milton led to charges for two local men.  It was the Arm Bar in Milton, where Milton Police alleges Shannon Parrish of White Deer and Corby Brown of Milton were involved in a fight. Following an investigation charges were filed at the office of DJ Michael Diehl on Oct 21. According to the Daily Item, both Parrish and Brown have preliminary hearings there Dec. 1.

COMMONWEALTH FINANCING AUTHORITY 100 PROJECTS

Governor Tom Wolf announced 100 new project approvals today through the Commonwealth Financing Authority (CFA) for environmental and infrastructure projects in counties across Pennsylvania. The 100 Act 13 projects approved today are in 38 counties. The total funding amount is more than $10.4 million. The projects are designated for specific initiatives as follows:

  • Flood Mitigation: Greenways, Trails and Recreation: Sewage Facilities: Watershed Restoration and Protection:

MULTIMODAL TRANSPORTATION FUND MONIES FOR 54 COUNTIES OF PENNSYLVANIA

Governor Tom Wolf today announced the approval of 166 new projects through the Multimodal Transportation Fund (MTF), improving Pennsylvania’s transportation infrastructure and ensuring safer, more reliable transportation accommodation across the commonwealth. The projects total more than $84 million in funding. The 166 MTF projects approved are located in 54 counties: Centre, Lycoming, Montour, Northampton, Northumberland, Snyder, Susquehanna and Union.

 

GOV WOLF WORKING FOR INCREASED PAY, PAID LEAVE AND SAFER WORKPLACES FOR ALL

Gov. Tom Wolf continues to step up pressure on Republican legislative leaders to finally support hardworking Pennsylvanians. During a press conference in Philadelphia, the governor announced new proposed regulations to ensure tipped workers are treated fairly and outlined his legislative agenda for workers that will increase paychecks, guarantee paid leave and create safer workplaces.

FEMALE VETERANS DAY IN PA

Continuing the Wolf Administration’s effort to support women in the commonwealth and recognize those women who have served their country through the military, the Pennsylvania Commission for Women is seeking statewide nominations for its sixth Female Veterans Day Ceremony as part of Women’s History Month in March 2022. Veterans that are selected will be honored by Governor Tom Wolf and First Lady Frances Wolf. This year, the Female Veterans Day nomination form is available online. Nominees must be current Pennsylvania residents and have served at least four years in any branch of the U.S. military. The deadline for nominations is January 14, 2022. All final honorees will be notified via email by mid-February.

 

REPUBLICANS EXAMINING THE 2020 ELECTION

Republicans in the Pennsylvania Senate said  they will pay up to $270,000 over the next six months to have an Iowa consulting firm examine the 2020 election with an eye toward developing changes to state election law. The “forensic investigation” is being launched in response to pressure from Republican supporters of former President Donald Trump upset over his 80,000-vote loss in the state, but is well short of the Arizona-style “audit” that many of them have clamored for.A related subpoena issued by a GOP-controlled Senate committee, seeking voter data from the executive branch, is currently on hold awaiting a hearing in Commonwealth Court next month.

BACKYARD BROADCASTING, LOCAL NEWS NOVEMBER 19, 2021

LYCOMING COUNTY CORONER REPORTS HUMAN REMAINS FOUND IN LOYALSOCK TOWNSHIP      

Human remains were discovered in a wooded area near the 2600 block of Lycoming Creek Road and Hays Lane in Loyalsock Township around 9:24 a.m. yesterday. The Lycoming County Coroner’s Office was called by PA State Police to find the remains of a male believed to be in his late 20’s to early 30’s.  The deceased will be transferred to Forensic Anthropologist Dr. Dennis Dirkmaat in Erie for examination to assist with positive identification and determining the cause of death.  Further details will be released as available.

 

TOP TWO EXECUTIVES LEAVE HIGH PAYING JOBS UNDER THREAT OF FEDERAL INVESTIGATION

The top two executives at Pennsylvania’s largest public pension system will leave their jobs under resolutions approved by the system’s board Thursday, amid two federal investigations into the agency and calls by board members for their resignations over lackluster investment returns. Their departures come after a protracted fight to get the $62 billion Public School Employees’ Retirement System — which manages one of the nation’s biggest public pension funds — to divest its pricier investments in things like private equity firms.

BAYADA NURSE RESIDENCY APPRENTICESHIP PROGRAM TO GET BOOST FROM GOVERNOR

Continuing his commitment to expand home health care and address the nursing shortage, Governor Tom Wolf today announced a significant expansion of BAYADA’s Nurse Residency apprenticeship program to help adults and children who need home health care in Pennsylvania. With a high demand for home care setting nurses everywhere, BAYADA will use the grant to expand its talent pool to recent Licensed Practical Nurse and Registered Nurse graduates, who would otherwise not yet meet BAYADA’s hiring requirements for prior work experience. The project will replicate and expand BAYADA’s Nurse Residency apprenticeship program (NRP), in partnership with corresponding local workforce development boards, into several counties across the commonwealth.

UPDATED COVID-19 CASES LOCALLY

The Pennsylvania Department of Health on Thursday reported new COVID-19 cases. Clinton County reported 27 new cases. In Centre County there were 54 new cases. Lycoming County added 81 new cases. There were 80 new cases in Northumberland County, 21 in Snyder, a dozen in Union, nine in Montour and Tioga had 37 new COVID-19 cases listed yesterday.

FOUND GUILTY

It was third-degree murder sentence to Jahrid Burgess for his role in the beating death of 3-year-old Arabella Parker. The jury convened for less than two hours yesterday in order to find the final verdict.  According to Northumberland County District Attorney Tony Matulewicz, “Beating, waiting and lying,” were the three points he drilled home, in hopes the jury, which included five women and seven men understood the gravity of his closing arguments. In the end, as reported by the Daily Item, Burgess was ordered to remain behind bars, awaiting sentencing, on $750,000 bail.

FATAL CRASH ON GOLDEN STRIP

A vehicle accident took the life of a Loyalsock man, yesterday afternoon. According to SUN Gazette, the crash occurred on East Third Street in Loyalsock Township around 4 p.m. Both drivers were taken to UPMC Williamsport, where one of the drivers died. State Police in Montoursville report the investigation continues.

BILL PENNED BY STATE SENATOR GENE YAW

Governor Tom Wolf signed Senate Bill 420, now Act 88 of 2021, which Senator Gene Yaw, Vice Chairman of the Senate Judiciary Committee constructed, focuses on a District Attorney holding a valid license to practice law in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania from the time of election throughout the term of office.  Senate Bill 420 requires a district attorney to hold an active law license while in office. The new law takes effect immediately.

CRASH SENDS YOUTH TO HOSPITAL, ENDS IN ARREST

A 13-year-old male, sustained injury and was subsequently rushed to the hospital, after he was struck by a vehicle as he waited for the school bus. The crash, on Sept. 16th was in the 400 block of Liberty Street.  Watsontown Police have arrested 28 year old Tyler Carter of Watsontown, who was charged with two misdemeanor counts of driving under the influence.  The charges have been filed at the Office of Magisterial District Judge Michael I. Diehl in Milton.

BACKYARD BROADCASTING, LOCAL NEWS NOVEMBER 18, 2021

WORK SET TO BEGIN ON THE NEW ACCESSIBLE RAMP ON WILLIAMSPORT CITY HALL

Construction has begun on Williamsport City Hall, as the new accessible ramp is slated to begin within the next month.  According to City Engineer, Jon Sander, a general contractor from Boalsburg, LandServe Inc, for a price tag of $166,000 is contracted to perform the work, while the water line work is sub-contracted to Plumbing Masters. The water line work is set to include a line for fire suppression and another line for domestic use.  The historic look and feel of City Hall will be maintained and the project materials were pre-fabricated, which according to SUN Gazette, dropped the overall initial cost by $300,000.

 

WHITE DEER TOWNSHIP MAN RUNS FROM TRAFFIC STOP

On Nov 17 at approximately 3 PM a White Deer Township resident attempted to flee on foot from a traffic stop. Members of the Williamsport Bureau of Police in conjunction with members of the Lycoming County Narcotics Enforcement Unit and District Attorney’s Office Detective Bureau stopped Justin Kennedy in the 100 block of W Fourth St. When he did stop for police, Kennedy ran and Officers deployed a Taser at which time he was apprehended. KENNEDY was treated for minor injuries and will subsequently be charged with narcotics related offenses as well as fleeing, escape, DUI and resisting arrest.

CONCEALED WEAPONS WITHOUT A PERMIT GOES TO GOVERNOR

A bill to allow people to carry concealed weapons without a permit was passed by a divided Pennsylvania House on Tuesday, but faces a veto threat from the governor. The parties were split in the vote, as occurred in the state Senate last week, with Republican mostly supporting it and Democrats mostly opposed. Supporters said getting concealed carry permits under current law can be subject to the whims of county sheriffs and that concealed carry permit holders can forget when their licenses expire and therefore unknowingly violate the law. Opponents pointed out the proposal is unlikely to be enacted, as Democratic Gov. Tom Wolf’s office said he will veto the legislation, and argued the bill would make people less safe by making guns more readily accessible.

 

CAUSE OF DEATH REMAINS UNKNOWN IN CLINTON COUNTY

There has been no official determination as to cause of death of the inmate from the Clinton County Correctional Facility. According to Clinton County Coroner Zach Hanna  “anatomical examination phase of the autopsy pathology procedure” for Jamie Lynne Jackson, the inmate who was awaiting trial for the 2020 murder of 9-year-old Anson Stover,  was completed Tuesday. According to the recordonline.com, toxicology tests, which will continue to be performed over the next few weeks, are standard practice. He reiterated the cause and manner of the death “will remain pending until the results of those tests are completed.”

 

“SMALLPOX” IN PENNSYLVANIA FREEZER IN RESEARCH FACILITIY

Federal health authorities on Wednesday confirmed the discovery of some frozen vials labeled “Smallpox” in a freezer at a facility in Pennsylvania that conducts vaccine research. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said the vials “were incidentally discovered by a laboratory worker” who was cleaning out the freezer. The CDC would not confirm where in Pennsylvania the vials were found.

LOCAL COVID-19 CASE UPDATES

The Pennsylvania Department of Health on Wednesday reported new COVID-19 cases. Clinton County reported 37 new cases. In Centre County 70 new cases were recorded. Lycoming County added 69 new cases. There were 86 in Northumberland County, 21 in both Snyder and Union counties and 16 in Montour. Tioga County 51 new cases reported yesterday.

THIRTEENTH FOUNDATION DINNER AND AUCTION A SUCCESS

Commitments towards student scholarships totally $600,700 was brought about by generous donations and the 13th Foundation Dinner & Auction at Pennsylvania College of Technology.  It was an event, which included a silent auction that was sponsored by Lycoming Engines and others. In addition to the auction items, the Cunningham Family stepped forward with a significant pledge to the Legacy Campaign for Penn College in honor of President Davie Jane Gilmour.

THE WILLIAMSPORT POLICE PATROL DIVISION HAS MOVED

The Williamsport Bureau of Police Patrol Division has officially relocated to 810 Nichols Place, City of Williamsport. This facility is located to the rear (north) of Trinity Episcopal Church. All patrol related services previously located at City Hall as well as the on duty Watch Commander are now operational at the new location. The Williamsport Bureau of Police thanks members of the public for their patience during this time as we begin operating from new locations. This change of facilities does not affect police responses or services from the Williamsport Bureau of Police.

REVOLVING DOOR ABOUT TO CLOSE IN PA

Pennsylvania’s “revolving door” for the most serious drunk drivers is soon to close, as Wednesday the state House of Representatives on approved legislation aiming to increase penalties for motorists who have multiple DUI convictions. The bill passed 168-32, and goes to the state Senate for consideration there. The Senate passed a similar bill in 2020, but it died in the House. Under the House bill, penalties would rise for those who receive multiple driving-under-the-influence convictions with higher blood-alcohol content levels. The bill would ensure that someone who commits a fourth DUI with an elevated blood alcohol level serves a longer jail sentence, in part by raising the offense to a second-degree felony, and that offenders with two offenses serve more time by making them serve their sentence consecutively with other counts.

 

RAISES FOR PA STATE LAWMAKERS, JUDGES AND TOP EXECUTIVE BRANCH OFFICIALS

Inflation is driving up consumer prices and will drive a big salary increase for Pennsylvania state lawmakers, judges and top executive branch officials in 2022. For many of these positions, it’s the biggest increase in three decades. Salaries across the board will rise 5.6%, a figure tied by state law to the year-over-year change in the consumer price index published last week by the U.S. Department of Labor for mid-Atlantic urban areas. The increase applies to more than 1,300 positions, including the governor, Cabinet members, three statewide elected officers, all 253 lawmakers and state and county judges. It takes effect Dec. 1 for lawmakers and Jan. 1 for judicial and executive branch officials.

 

U.S. REP. FRED KELLER’S LEGISLATION

In a move to attempt to nullify President Joe Biden’s executive order mandating vaccines for private employers with more than 100 workers or institute a testing policy, U.S. Rep. Fred Keller yesterday introduced legislation, as the Occupational Safety and Health Administration announced yesterday that it was suspending enforcement of the mandate. Keller, a Republican from Pennsylvania’s 12th District, sponsored a Congressional Review Act (CRA) resolution to “formally disapprove of and nullify President Joe Biden’s unconstitutional vaccine mandate imposed on America’s job creators and workers.”

BACKYARD BROADCASTING, LOCAL NEWS NOVEMBER 17, 2021

MULTI-DAY TRIAL STARTED YESTERDAY FOR MUNCY MAN

A Muncy man, who has been charged with the sexual assault of a 14-year-old started his multi-day trial yesterday. Collin Reid, allegedly forced the girl to sleep in his bed and took nude photos of her. According to Lycoming County Prosecutor Martin Wade, DNA evidence, taken the day of the incident, will be glue to the case. While, on the other side of the courtroom it was defense attorney, Eric Birth, stressed the ideal of guilt beyond a shadow of a doubt.  According to SUN Gazette, the trial, held at the Lycoming County Courthouse, presided over by County Judge Eric Linhardt, is forecast to finish tomorrow.

SHOTS FIRED IN WILLIAMSPORT

Gunshots rang through the neighborhood of Prospect Avenue and Linn Street, with one hitting a moving vehicle, last night around 6 p.m. According to police, there were no reported injuries and witnesses claim up to seven gunshots were heard. Although the vehicle struck was impounded, there are no clear reasons why it was struck by bullets. If you have any information on this incident, please contact the Williamsport Bureau of Police. This shooting remains under investigation.

 

PEDESTRIAN STRUCK IN WILLIAMSPORT

A pedestrian was struck and critically injured on Washington Boulevard last night. The pedestrian was taken to UPMC in critical condition after being struck by a Chevy Malibu in the 200 block. The driver was questioned by Williamsport Bureau of Police. This incident remains under investigation.

LATEST COVID-19 CASES ADDED YESTERDAY

The Pennsylvania Department of Health on Tuesday reported COVID-19 cases. Clinton County reported 23 new cases. In Centre County 24 new cases were recorded. Lycoming County added 126 new cases, 71 in Northumberland County, 28 in Snyder, 11 in Union and seven in Montour. Tioga County had 37 new cases listed yesterday.

 

APPEAL APPROVED FOR GOV TOM WOLF AND MASK MANDATE

A Pennsylvania judge yesterday said an order that requires masks inside K-12 schools and child care facilities to contain the coronavirus must expire Dec. 4, although that is unlikely to be the final legal development in the case. The ruling by Commonwealth Court Judge Christine Fizzano Cannon comes a week after her court threw out the statewide mask mandate. When Gov. Tom Wolf’s administration appealed to the state Supreme Court, the automatic suspension of that decision has been granted. Cannon’s ruling, in theory, gives time for the state Supreme Court to take up the case, or for Wolf’s administration to write and enact a mask mandate through an emergency regulation.

INSPIRE INITIATIVE IN PA

Governor Tom Wolf and the Appalachian Regional Commission today announced that more than $1.5 million through the INvestments Supporting Partnerships In Recovery Ecosystems (INSPIRE) initiative has been awarded to four Pennsylvania projects that help people with substance use disorder (SUD) to successfully get a job or re-enter the workforce.Workforce Solutions for North Central Pennsylvania received a $500,000 award for the PROSPER – From Recovery to Career program. Partners in the collaboration will provide SUD-awareness training to local businesses, certify more recovery specialists and provide customized career planning services to dozens of job seekers.

PROGRAM PROVIDES OPPORTUNITY FOR MILITARY SERVICE MEMBERS TRANSITIONING TO CIVILIAN CAREERS

As part of Geisinger’s continued commitment to military service members and veterans, the Geisinger Military Fellowship Program is a 12-week workplace learning experience for service members as they explore civilian career options after the military. Geisinger employs more than 700 military veterans and service members across northeastern and central Pennsylvania in various roles including physicians, nurses, Life Flight pilots, information technology and human resources, among others.

BACKYARD BROADCASTING, LOCAL NEWS NOVEMBER 16, 2021

 

WRITE-IN VOTES COUNTED AND COMPLETE IN LYCOMING COUNTY

The Lycoming County vote is now official and complete, winners in the November election for school board and municipal seats are now decided. According to Forrest Lehman, county voter services director, the official count had no glaring discrepancies. According to Sun Gazette, the vote totals are not official until the completion of the last official count and state law mandates an official count following each election.  Write in winners include those for borough council, township supervisors and school boards. They included;  Jersey Shore Area School District• Jessie L. Edwards, Region 1, Picture Rocks Borough Mayor• David L. Bender, and South Williamsport Borough Council• Richard A. Kershner Jr., Two-Year Term were just a few of those decided recently.

 

LIFE INSURANCE FOR PA NATIONAL GUARD LEGISLATION

On November 10, legislation to expand life insurance for members of the Pennsylvania National Guard, HB 1612, unanimously passed the Pennsylvania House of Representatives. Title 51 allows for a voluntary life insurance program for service members of the Pennsylvania National Guard. That program is under the Service member’s Group Life Insurance, also known as SGLI. Under existing Pennsylvania law, the SGLI is applicable under the following duty statuses:  Federal activation for a period of 30 days or more for combat operations and combat zones, known as Title 10 orders, or State Activation for active duty for emergencies within Pennsylvania known as EMAC orders. HB 1612 addresses a shortcoming in the type of active duty not currently covered under state statute. My legislation addresses Federal Activation to assist in an Emergency in another state or Federal jurisdiction, known as Title 32 orders. My bill will ensure that members of the PA National Guard will have life insurance coverage under all types of active duty orders. The bill now heads to the Senate for consideration.

EDUCATION LEGISLATION IN HOUSE BILL 1041

Recognizing that education is not a one-size-fits-all solution for every child, the House last week advanced legislation that would give parents and students the ability to design a more individualized educational model. House Bill 1041 would permit home education students to attend up to four academic classes during a school day and participate in co-curricular activities, such as marching band, as well as have access to programs offered at career and technical education centers. Enabling parents to supplement their children’s home education courses with classes offered by their local public school, as well as to participate in co-curricular activities, would maximize the academic potential for those children. House Bill 1041 now goes to the Senate for consideration.

 

CLICK IT OR TICKET

Pine Creek Township Police Department today announced that they will partner to participate in a national “Click It or Ticket” Seat Belt Enforcement initiative from November 15 through November 28, 2021. The goal is to reduce unbelted injuries and deaths on Pennsylvania highways through coordinated enforcement using Traffic Enforcement Zones and Roving Patrols. Traffic Enforcement Zones combine stationary enforcement and checkpoint tactics on roadways with high numbers of unbuckled crashes. Citations will be issued to motorists who are caught unbuckled or transporting unrestrained children. According to PennDOT data there were 12,562 unrestrained crashes that resulted in 330 fatalities in 2019.

 

CHRONIC WASTING EVENT BY PA GAME COMMISSION

The Pennsylvania Game Commission is hosting an open house to inform the public about Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD). The event is set for 6 p.m. on Thursday, November 18th, at the Tri County Church, 1881 Old State Hwy 255, DuBois PA 15801. To limit spread of CWD, the Game Commission has enacted special regulations in several spots around Pennsylvania. These areas are known as Disease Management Areas (DMAs). There are five DMAs across the state. The newest, DMA 6, was created in response to a CWD-positive road-killed deer found outside of Brockway PA. It covers around 100 square miles over parts of Clearfield and Elk County. Regulations within DMA – which include bans on feeding deer, using or possessing cervid urine-based attractants, and moving high-risk deer parts – are to limit the spread of the disease.

WINTER DRIVING IN PENNSYLVANIA

With winter weather here, the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) encourages motorists to “Know Before You Go” by checking conditions on more than 40,000 roadway miles by visiting www.511PA.com.PennDOT maintains nearly 40,000 miles of state-administered roadway and 25,400 bridges, which translates to approximately 95,000 snow lane miles. During the winter months, the public can find plow-truck locations and details of when the state-maintained roadways were last treated by selecting the “Plow Trucks” in 511PA. Motorists can check conditions on major roadways by visiting www.511PA.com. 511PA, which is free and available 24 hours a day, provides traffic delay warnings, weather forecasts, traffic speed information and access to more than 1,000 traffic cameras.

AUTOPSY SET FOR TODAY FOR CLINTON COUNTY PRISON DEATH

The investigation continues, according to therecordonline.com, the Clinton County Coroner  Zack Hanna distributed a press release. It reads … In regards to the death investigation of Ms. Jamie Jackson, who died at UPMC Lock Haven Hospital on November 14, 2021, the autopsy examination procedure is scheduled to be performed on Tuesday, November 16, 2021 at Mt. Nittany Medical Center, State College, PA. Ms. Jackson’s cause and manner of death will remain pending until full autopsy results are available. 

SENATE BILL 275  BANNING SPECIFIC FUEL SOURCES

It is legislation that is designed to prevent municipalities from the banning of specific fuel sources and it was passed by the Pennsylvania Senate.  Senate Bill 275, according to the center square, is set up to prevent an “unworkable patchwork” of restrictions that, if left unchecked, could expand through the commonwealth’s over 2,500 municipalities. The bill, sponsored by Senate Environmental Resources and Energy Committee Chair Gene Yaw, R-Williamsport, stressed that both businesses and homeowners would be able to access any energy source, these could include wind, natural gas, solar and others.  The bill now travels to the House for further consideration.

LOCAL COVID-19 CASES

The Pennsylvania Department of Health on Monday reported new COVID-19 cases. Clinton County reported ten new cases. In Centre County 37 new cases were recorded. Lycoming County added 32 new cases. Tioga County had 16 new cases. On Monday, there were 27 new cases in Northumberland County, 13 in Union and six in Snyder. There were no new cases in Montour County.

THE INFRASTRUCTURE INVESTIMENT AND JOBS ACT

Governor Tom Wolf joined fellow governors and President Joe Biden today at the White House as the president signed the historic, bipartisan Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act into law. The new law will provide, over the next five years, more than $13 billion to address roads and bridges, $2.8 billion for public transportation, $100 million to expand high-speed internet access, and more to Pennsylvania.

NO TAX INCREASE IN LOYALSOCK TOWNSHIP FOR EARLY VERSION OF BUDGET

It was a unanimous, 5-0 vote that allowed their 2022 General Fund Budget to be set on public display. Loyalsock Township Supervisors, in a recent meeting, noted the current real estate tax, which is set at .5 mill, will remain the same for 2022. According to Township Manager, Bill Burdett, all of the townships current services and programs will be offered without the increase in rates or fees. According to SUN Gazette, a beginning balance of $2.1 million for the general fund, coupled with 2022 revenues and added expenses, Supervisors estimate a year end balance of $2.2 million.

LOCK HAVEN CITY POLICE LOOKING FOR ASSISTANCE

Lock Haven City Police are requesting assistance with information from Sunday, Nov. 14th at 5:30 PM; a pedestrian was struck in the intersection of Bellefonte Ave and Commerce St. in Lock Haven. The striking vehicle, a dark color SUV, did not stop and fled the scene south on Commerce St then turned Left onto W Bald Eagle St. The pedestrian suffered injuries in the crash and has since been released from the hospital. Anyone with information on the vehicle or driver involved in the crash is asked to contact Lock Haven Police Dept.

DOUBLE FATAL ACCIDENT ON ROUTE 220

Wednesday around 12:45 p.m.  on Route 220, a crash took the lives of two elderly residents of Hughesville.  Alda H. Molyneux, 86, and Arthur J. Molyneux, 82, died when their vehicle collided with another on Route 220 near the intersection with Slow Hand Drive, according to northcentralpa.com. A 10-year-old was flown by Geisinger Life Flight to GMC Danville. The driver of the other vehicle, Jessica Liuzza-Charles, of Hughesville, was transported to UPMC. The accident remains under investigation.

TVTN STREAM ONLINE

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BACKYARD BROADCASTING, LOCAL NEWS NOVEMBER 15, 2021

JOINT STATEMENT REGARDING DEATH OF INMATE

Clinton County District Attorney Dave Strouse, Coroner Zach Hanna and the Pennsylvania State Police have issued a joint statement for immediate release on the death of Jamie Lynn Jackson.  Jamie Lynn Jackson, 36, formerly of East Bald Eagle Street, Lock Haven, was pronounced dead at Lock Haven Hospital at 12:48PM this afternoon following a medical emergency. Jackson has been held at Clinton County Correctional Facility in McElhatten while awaiting trial in the Spring of 2022 for the murder of 9-year-old Anson Stover in November of 2020.  Earlier in the day Sunday, Jackson reportedly experienced a medical emergency at the correctional facility and was taken to Lock Haven Hospital by Ambulance. Cause and manner of death are pending the results of an autopsy.  Initial reports are that there were no other individuals involved in incident, and officials have no indication of foul play.

BURGLARY, CRIMINAL TRESPASS AND MORE ON WILLIAMSPORT MAN

On 11/12/2021 at approximately 10:15 AM, officers from Williamsport Bureau of Police were dispatched to the 100 block of Union Ave for a report of criminal mischief. NICOLAS CARMINE GRIECO was identified by the caller as unlawfully entering a garage and causing damage to a vehicle. GRIECO then fled the scene. GRIECO was located several minutes later emerging from 1542 Sherman Street and taken into custody without incident. GRIECO was arraigned before MDJ Solomon on charges of Burglary, Criminal Trespass, Criminal Mischief and Possessing Instruments of a Crime and committed to Lycoming County Prison. Williamsport Bureau of Police would like to thank the Pennsylvania State Police, Lycoming County District Attorney’s Office and the Lycoming County Sheriff’s Office for assisting in the rapid response and arrest of GRIECO.

TODAY IS AMERICA RECYCLES DAY

On America Recycles Day (November 15), EPA recognized the importance and impact of recycling, which has contributed to American prosperity and the protection of our environment. The recycling rate has increased and the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection Agency study found that recycling and reuse activities in the United States accounted for over 680,000 jobs and $38 billion in wages. The recycling efforts of communities and business throughout the United States have helped with this success and growth. To build on our progress, EPA encourages every American to contribute by recycling right, not only on every annual America Recycles Day, but all year. This means checking with your local recycling provider to be certain that they will accept everything you place in your recycling bin. Items like cardboard, metal cans and paper are commonly accepted by local curbside programs, and items like plastic bags, electronics and batteries can NEVER go in the curbside recycling bin.

CONGRESSMAN KELLER VISITS LYCOMING COUNTY

Recently, Congressman Keller spent time in Lycoming County. His team checked in with Ground Shaker Transport, a leading transportation company in the region and an important partner to Pennsylvania’s natural gas industry. Keller was also invited to visit with the Central PA Chamber, who hosted him   during their Legislative Event. Keller also took the time to tour Shop-Vac.

LOCAL COVID-19 CASES

The Pennsylvania Department of Health on Sunday reported new COVID-19 cases, Clinton County reported 39 new cases. In Centre County 64 new cases were recorded, Lycoming County added 87 new cases, Northumberland  had 48 new, Montour 16, Snyder 13, Union 23 and Tioga County ha  52 new cases listed yesterday.

CHILD PASSENGER SAFETY SEAT CHECK TONIGHT

Pennsylvania State Police in Milton remind you in conjunction with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s “National Child Passenger Safety Week” the troopers of Troop F in Milton are conducting a Child Passenger Safety Seat Check event tonight from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. at this station 50 Lawton Lane, Milton.

STATE POLICE ARREST BOY WHO CLAIMED TO HAVE A BOMB

State Police in Lamar reported the arrest of a 15-year-old male who, at 12:50 p.m. on November 11th, while at Central Mountain High School in Mill Hall, announced to a cafeteria full of students and faculity that he had a bomb in his backpack. State police responded and the search yielded negative results. The boy was arrested and there is no safety concern for facility, staff or students.

BACKYARD BROADCASTING, LOCAL NEWS NOVEMBER 14, 2021

ATTEMPT TO EVADE WILLIAMSPORT POLICE

In an unsuccessful attempt to evade police, a driver took his Honda Accord into a utility pole and he went to the hospital. According to SUN Gazette, the early Saturday morning police pursuit was a brief event that occurred on Oliver Street in Williamsport. According to police, the incident began when a driver, who was allegedly flashing a handgun in the establishment, ran from The Bar on Market Street around 2 a.m. The Williamsport Police advise his identity will be released once he is formally arraigned from the multiple felonies he faces once he is released from UPMC.

NATIONAL RECYCLING DAY ON MONDAY

Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) Secretary Patrick McDonnell will join members of the recycling community to celebrate National Recycling Day, and unveil “Guidelines for Recycling in Your Community,” a simple guide to help residents and businesses understand recycling in Pennsylvania. DEP oversees the statewide recycling program in Pennsylvania, but all recycling is handled at the local level, with many municipalities and counties managing their own recycling programs, complemented by recycling services offered by private and non-profit organizations. The new booklet will help Pennsylvanians to recycle correctly by finding recycling programs in their local area, learning their local rules, and following them to maximize the social, environmental, and economic benefits of recycling.

JAPANESE BARBERRY TO LIST OF NOXIOUS WEEDS

​ The PA Department of Agriculture added Japanese Barberry, or Berberis thunbergii, to a list of noxious weeds — plants that cannot be legally sold or cultivated in the state. The popular, non-native, ornamental shrub forms dense, prickly thickets that crowd out plants and disrupt native ecosystems. It is also thought to harbor black-legged ticks that spread lyme disease. The ban on sale and cultivation took effect October 8, 2021. Enforcement of the ban will be phased in over two years to allow time for nurseries to eliminate it from their stock, find non-harmful alternatives, and develop seedless, sterile varieties that pose less threat to the environment and agriculture. Landscape and nursery businesses will receive notices of the timeline, procedures and exemption process for sterile varieties. Property owners should consider eliminating the shrubs on their land.

Missing Person Juvenile-Update Flanders has been safely located and returned home without incident.  

Than The Williamsport Bureau of Police is attempting to locate 13 year old Mahiiya Flanders of Williamsport City. Flanders is currently entered as a missing person juvenile and was last seen on 11/12/2021 in the Newberry area of Williamsport around 4:30 pm after attending school. Flanders is also believed to have been in the area of Flanigan Park around 4:45 PM.

WILLIAMSPORT MAN REMAINS MISSING

The Williamsport Bureau of Police is currently attempting to locate Bradley Racey, who was last seen leaving the Newberry Section of Williamsport on October 27, 2021, at approximately 1:50 AM. Anyone with information regarding Racey’s whereabouts is asked to contact the Williamsport Bureau of Police.Top of FormBottom of Form

Lock Haven City Police News Release

On 11-10-21, Kimberly Schmidt, 62, Lock Haven, attempted to use someone else’s urine to take a drug test for probation.  Schmidt has been charged with Furnishing Drug Free Urine.  Charges are being filed against Jason Walters, 47, Lock Haven, for Terroristic Threats, Criminal Mischief, and Harassment.  On 10-29-21, Walters threatened the victim via text and damaged the victim’s storm door and three tires on a vehicle.

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