BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS JULY 26, 2021
CHILD INDANGERMENT AND DUI STEMMING FROM FIERY CRASH IN UNION COUNTY
At least six passengers in a fiery crash in Union County were children, according to State Police in Milton, where a New York City man was charged with child endangerment and driving under the influence. Georgie F. Caraballo, now sits in Union County Jail with bail set at $40,000 monetary, according to northcentralpa.com. At 5:46 p.m. on Wednesday evening, Troopers were called to the New Columbia and Baker roads in White Deer Township for a motor vehicle accident with fire. F. Carballo was taken into custody and arraigned in front of District Judge Jeffrey A. Rowe with multiple felonies. A preliminary hearing is scheduled for Aug. 3 at the office of District Judge Jeffrey C. Mensch in Mifflinburg.
BODY OF MAN FOUND IN TRUCK ALONG SPOOK HOLLOW ROAD
Along the Spook Hollow Road in Piatt Township, the body of a man was discovered inside his overturned pickup truck yesterday morning around 9 a.m. , according to SUN Gazette. Reports from the Tiadaghton Valley Regional Police suggest the victim lost control of his truck, as he traveled north in the 300 block of Spook Hollow Rd. The vehicle came to rest at the bottom of a 10-foot-embankment and was discovered by a passerby. The driver’s body was taken to the Forensics Center at UPMC Williamsport. The investigation continues.
INMATE OBTAINS TWO DAY POST CONVICTION RELIEF ACT HEARING
She claims her defense attorney did not allow her to take the stand to defend herself, therefore, convicted murderer Maria Sanutti-Spencer will appear in Columbia County Court for a two-day Post Conviction Relief Act hearing. Sanutti-Spencer was granted the two-day hearing which will take place Aug. 2 and Aug. 3 in Columbia County in front of Centre County Senior Judge David Grine. Sanutti-Spencer was found guilty of first-degree murder in 2015 and sentenced to life in prison without the possibility of parole and is currently incarcerated at SCI-Muncy, in Muncy.
CAR RUNS STOP SIGN AND CRASHES INTO HOUSE ON WHITE DEER PIKE
There was a lot of damage to a home and minor injuries reported after a car crashed into a home in White Deer Township, Union County. State police say 60-year old James Ellis and 61-year old Faith Ellis, both of Watsontown, were traveling north on Gray Hill Road just before 6:30 p.m. on July 21 when their vehicle failed to stop at the posted stop sign at the intersection with White Deer Pike, traveled 50 feet through a nearby yard, and struck a house causing major damage. Charges were filed by Milton State Police.
COURT DATE RESET FOR AUGUST 23
Today was the date set for the first appearance in Clinton County Court for the teenager charged with homicide in the shooting death of his friend. However counsel for Brian St. John III has waived his formal court arraignment which had been listed for 8:30 a.m.. According to the court docket, St. John is now scheduled for “Call of the List” on Monday, Aug. 23 at 8:30 a.m., described as essentially a status conference on the case to determine if it may be ready to move forward. St. John, 19, remains incarcerated at the Clinton County Correctional Facility after his arrest following the Feb. 26 incident. He was arrested and charged with the killing Jakob Lee Haines, during a gathering at the St. John home atop Brewery Hollow Road in Woodward Township.
WATER DAMAGE IN CITY HALL
Williamsport Mayor Derek Slaughter released a press release Friday evening stating that City Hall has sustained water damage due to a roof leak, and may need to be temporarily relocated. City Hall’s roof started to leak due to last week’s thunderstorms and as a result, the building sustained significant water damage. Mayor Slaughter stated that City Hall now has “an awful odor inside,” as well as mold. A company will come to City Hall early this week to conduct an air quality test, mold test, and overall general assessment of the conditions.
LITTLE LEAGUE TO ALLOW 3,000 FANS
After talking with medical consultants and based on guidance by the Little League International Pandemic Response Advisory Commission, Little League International and its president and CEO, Steve Keener, made the announcement Friday afternoon to allow 3,000 fans entry into this year’s Little League World Series. The seating is limited to the hill beyond the Lamade Stadium fence and the area beyond the outfield fence at Volunteer Stadium. Family and friends from the communities the 16 United States teams come from, and a few officials will be the only fans permitted inside the stadium. Little League is giving 250 stadium access passes to each of the 16 teams.
COVID DISAPPOINTMENT FOR AREA LITTLE LEAGUE TEAM
Due to a positive COVID test on the team, Mifflinburg Major Division All Star Little League Softball Team was forced to leave the Eastern Regional Tournament yesterday in Bristol, Conn. The team wanted another test, but Little League said on its website Sun afternoon that because of at least one positive COVID-19 test within the Pennsylvania State Little League Champions, they were told they could no longer participate in the tournament.
BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS JULY 23, 2021
INTERNET OUTAGE
It was yesterday when valley residents were unable to access many websites. According to Reuters, websites were briefly down in an outage sparked by a glitch in Akamai Technologies Inc’s (AKAM.O) systems, the second major disruption linked to the cloud company in about a month.” The disruption lasted up to an hour and was caused by a bug in the domain name system (DNS) service, which allows web addresses to take users to their destinations, that was triggered during a software update, Akamai said. Services resumed after rolling back the update, Akamai added, and confirmed the disruption was not due to a cyber attack.
(Websites of Delta Air Lines (DAL.N), Costco Wholesale Corp (COST.O), American Express (AXP.N) and Home Depot (HD.N) were initially down, displaying domain name system (DNS) service errors. Both Oracle and Amazon said their services were operating normally shortly after.)
NEW PLAYER WELLNESS CENTER
The new Player Wellness Center, unveiled at the soggy ribbon cutting ceremony, will serve as the hub for all players, coaches, and managers during their stay at the Little League World Series each summer. “We are thrilled to open this remarkable new facility and look forward to the important care and expertise that the staff at UPMC will provide our World Series participants this August,” Little League President and CEO Stephen D. Keener said in a news release. According to northcentralpa.com, the new Player Wellness Center will replace the former Little League Infirmary to help accommodate the upcoming expansion to 20 teams.
PENN STATE FOOTBALL
Penn State Athletics announced general public single-game football tickets will go on sale Thurs., Aug. 5 at 10 a.m., according to a media outlet. The Nittany Lions will open the home slate on Sept. 11 for its 107K Family Reunion, followed by the nationally-recognized Penn State White Out against Auburn on Sept. 18. Future events include Penn State’s annual THON game, the Stripe Out game, homecoming and Penn State White Out Game. Variable pricing for single game tickets will be used again this year with single game tickets starting at just $35 per person. To purchase tickets, fans can call 1-800-NITTANY.
PAPERBACK BOOK DAY
Penguin Books published its first batch of paperback books on July 30, 1935. Because of this, each year, people celebrate the advent of affordable, lightweight books on July 30. The James V. Brown Library celebrates the paperback by recommending classics to visitors. The development of lighter books was partially due to the popularity of railroad travel, because of the size and weight, travel and paperback books went together well. Paperback Book Day honors and exalts this practice of comfort and leisurely days.
DECISION FOR LYCOMING COUNTY COMMISSIONERS
A complaint filed by Lycoming County Commissioners against the County Controller stemming from the reassignment of responsibilities from her department has been dismissed. Potter County Senior Judge John B. Leete recently handed down the order after hearing lawyers for both sides argue the case in court this spring. The Lycoming County Commissioners have provided a press release. The Lycoming County Board of Commissioners have reviewed the court’s decision in our suit against the Lycoming County Controller. We conclude that this decision does not invalidate any of the actions that this Board of Commissioners has taken. As we said when we initiated this process, we brought this suit solely to protect the integrity of the County’s financial operations. Commissioners said they have no no plans to appeal the decision.
DECISION FOR LYCOMING COUNTY COMMISSIONERS
A complaint filed by Lycoming County Commissioners against the County Controller stemming from the reassignment of responsibilities from her department has been dismissed. Potter County Senior Judge John B. Leete recently handed down the order after hearing lawyers for both sides argue the case in court this spring. The Lycoming County Commissioners have provided a press release. The suit allowed us to return essential fiscal functions to the County, where they had been effectively performed for decades. The Court’s ruling does not change any of that. Those functions will remain where they now are again, within the County Office of Budget and Finance. Payroll, accounts payable, and the general ledger will be handled by the county employees with the Controller continuing to retain her oversight functions, which was never challenged by the Commissioners. Commissioners said they have no no plans to appeal the decision.
TOWN HALL MEETING VIA TELEPHONE ON MONDAY
U.S. Rep. Fred Keller, R-Kreamer, will hold a telephone town hall meeting Monday, July 26, according to a media source. The event, set to begin at 7:30 p.m., will allow constituents to call the congressman with questions and learn updates on legislative issues. The public can livestream the event at https://keller.house.gov/live or call in at 866-641-6837.
LOYALSOCK TOWNSHIP SCHOOL DISTRICT SCHOOL BOARD HEALTH AND SAFETY PLAN
The Loyalsock Township School District School Board passed the 2021-22 Health and Safety Plan, which provides written guidance including no masks for students in class, no mandatory vaccinations and physical distancing close to pre-pandemic levels. According to northcentralpa.com, about a dozen parents were present Wednesday to support either not taking government funds associated with the plan or opposing children wearing masks. Districts which receive American Rescue Plan Elementary and Secondary School Relief funds must submit a health and safety plan to the State Department of Education by July 30. The district has received the first round of relief funds and is preparing to file for the second round.
LOYALSOCK TOWNSHIP SCHOOL DISTRICT SCHOOL BOARD APPROVES COMPETITION-SIZE GYM
Loyalsock Township School District’s school board next proposed building project is a new competition-size gym. The latest option adds another $1.6 million to the gym expansion, which brings the total for the gym and bleachers to about $4.9 million. According to northcentralpa.com, the overall cost of the multi-phased project is $11.9 million. Included in that are renovations and additional classrooms in the high school and middle school plus the addition of classrooms and kitchen reconfiguration at Schick Elementary. Robert Lack was hired to provide architectural services.
ADULT PROBATION OFFICERS RECOGNITION CEREMONY
The Lycoming County Courts hosted a recognition ceremony for Adult Probation Officers earlier this week.According to northcentralpa.com, Lycoming County Judge Marc Lovecchio commended the adult probation officers for hard work over the years. According to a media outlet, Lovecchio came to realize the last thing adult probation officers wanted was to send individuals on probation back to the system. That means keeping those on probation safe, keeping the community safe and eventually, reintegrating them into society at large. According to Lovecchio, who goes on to say of the adult probation department, “They are here to truly help people and rehabilitate them and get them back on track.”
EMERGENCY MEDICAL TECHNICIAN TRAINING FOR STUDENT
The Williamsport Area School Board passed several agenda items through an omnibus, including allowing high school students to take an Emergency Medical Technician course with the Pennsylvania College of Technology as an elective. The class will count as a 1.0 elective credit, and will weigh 1.4 credit points on a student’s transcript–meaning it will factor into the student’s grade-point average and class rank. According to a news outlet, the cost of taking the course will be fronted by families of students taking the course.
BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS JULY 21, 2021
HEALTH & SAFETY PLAN
It was a tweaked plan, but it was unanimously approved by the Montoursville Area School District School Board. The 2021-22 Health and Safety Plan has kept masks options, vaccinations not required, for staff or students, and no testing or screening for COVID-19 will be permitted on any district property, according to SUN Gazette. The district, however, agreed to comply with modifications for facilities to permit physical distancing at “the greatest extent possible,” and maintain healthy hygiene practices with cleaning and sanitation routines.
AMERICAN RESCUE PLAN
The $25.8 million in American Rescue Plan dollars was the focus of the City Council’s Finance Committee meeting on Tuesday. After receiving the general guidelines on proper spending of the U.S. Department of Treasury, Mayor Derek Slaughter is prepared to organize a joint-work session next week with council. According to a media outlet, Slaughter said he met recently with the county commissioners, as the county is set to receive $22 million, and has plans to meet with the Williamsport Municipal Water and Sanitary Authority.
FIREWORKS 911 POLICE CALLS
Williamsport Bureau of Police logged calls for fireworks activity over the Fourth of July weekend. According to City Police Chief Justin Snyder, a check of the city police records system from June 1 through Sunday indicated city officers responded to upwards of 30 fireworks-related calls. The difficulty of enforcement is compounded because commercial-grade fireworks are being sold legally and by the time they respond to fireworks complaints, most of those lighting them have fled the scene. “Many people will not call in,” Assistant Police Chief Jason Bolt said. “A lot come in as advisement,” he said.
JUDGE WILLIAM SOLOMON’S OFFICE RECONSTRUCTION
Construction material deliveries, arriving late, have unfortunately postponed the relocation of District Judge William Solomon’s office, according to Lycoming County Commissioners. According to a media source, Judge William Solomon will continue to conduct business out of his existing office at 1965 Lycoming Creek Road. Commissioners will next meet at 10 a.m. Tuesday in Executive Plaza, 330 Pine St., Williamsport.
COMMUNITY BLOCK GRANT AND MORE
Kristin McLaughlin, of SEDA-Council of Governments, reported to the Lycoming County Comissioners that the county will receive $291,230 in Community Development Block Grant funding this year, according to a media source. In orther news, the Commissioners approved several CDBG 2020 funding agreements for projects. American Rescue Workers and Jersey Shore Borough will each receive $55,000 for rent, utility and mortgage assistance to help those impacted by COVID-19. Commissioners will next meet at 10 a.m. Tuesday in Executive Plaza, 330 Pine St., Williamsport.
SHOTS FIRED NEW COLUMBIA
A man was sitting in his vehicle early Sunday morning in New Columbia when another man fired at him with a shotgun, police said. Zakary J. Walls, 27, of New Columbia, remains in Union County Jail in lieu of monetary $100,000 bail after he was arraigned by District Judge Jeffrey A. Rowe. It was the 1200 block of Bostion Road in White Deer Township where Walls now faces multiple felony charges and a preliminary hearing is scheduled for July 27 at the office of District Judge Jeffrey C. Mensch in Mifflinburg.
DAISY AWARD FOR UPMC NURSES
It was a total of five amazing nurses from UPMC in North Central Pa. were recently recognized as recipients of the DAISY Award for Extraordinary Nurses. These folk are chosen based on nominations from coworkers, patients, patients’ family members, or physicians that describe exemplary acts of service and compassion. Congrats to these two heros … Cathy Brandt, RN, Intensive Care Unit at UPMC Williamsport, was nominated by a patient., Julie Foresman, RN, UPMC Muncy Place, was nominated by a resident’s family member. …Kate Yost, RN, Intensive Care Unit at UPMC Williamsport, was nominated by a patient’s family member.Steven Davis, RN, Emergency Department at UPMC Williamsport, was nominated by a patient’s parent. And Caroline Troutman, RN, Intensive Care Unit at UPMC Williamsport, was nominated by a patient’s family member.
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BACKYARD BOADCASTING LOCAL NEWS JULY 19, 2021
FATAL MOTORCYCLE ACCIDENT
A man was pronounced dead at the scene of a motorcycle crash in Trout Run by the Lycoming County coroner Friday morning. Richard N. Hafer, 28, was pronounced dead at the scene of the crash, which occurred when his motorcycle struck a vehicle turning off of Hunting Club Road onto Route 184, according to a press release from Coroner Charles E. Kiessling Jr., who went on to say, “Despite resuscitative efforts by EMS personnel, he was pronounced dead at 8:44 a.m. at the scene due to multiple blunt force trauma.”
STATE REP JOE HAMM VISITS MUNCY BOROUGH
On a tour of municipal governments, State Rep. Joe Hamm, recently visited the Muncy Borough Council. After delivering updates to the borough council and residents present for the meeting, he then fielded questions.
According to a media source, Hamm discussed many things, including the new budget. He also explained how the Pennsylvania Senate moved forward with Bill 735, which would place a constitutional amendment concerning voter identification on a ballot in the coming years.
AUTHOR GALA AT THE COMMUNITY ARTS CENTER THIS YEAR
The James V. Brown Library’s Author Gala is going to have a different look this year as it moves to the Community Arts Center. There, according to a media outlet, author David Baldacci will be the featured speaker at the library’s major annual fundraiser. According to Dana Brigandi, the library’s development director. Guests can meet Baldacci in person. They can purchase tickets for a reception in the Capitol Lounge. Tickets for the Oct. 6 gala will go on sale Aug. 2 at the CAC box office.
JAMES V BROWN LIBRARY AT GROWERS MARKET
According to Dana Brigandi, the library’s development director. The James V. Brown Library is at the Growers’ Market the last Saturday of each month with the storymobile and two programmers. There is book give away through their PPL grant., according to SUN Gazette. The next visit to the market will be from 10 a.m. to noon July 31.The Summer Reading Program will end with a Scholastic Book Fair on Aug 5, 6th and 7th.
DOME CAMERA FOR MARGARET E. WALDRON PARK IN MUNCY
Muncy Borough Council recently approved purchasing five dome cameras for use at the Margaret E. Waldron Park. According to a media outlet, the total project, supplied and installed by Clearview Asset Protection, LLC will cost the borough $4,951 from its equipment account. According to Borough Manager Charley Hall, the Clearview cameras will enable borough police to remotely access them from their patrol vehicle if a call comes in regarding activity at the park.
AMERICAN RESCUE PLAN ACT OF 2021
Muncy Borough council recently addressed the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021’s implications for the borough, saying the money could be used to improve stormwater drains. Lycoming County had allocated $252,462 of federal funds to Muncy Borough to spend before 2024. According to a media source, the Borough council also discussed a vacancy on the borough’s zoning hearing board. Muncy Borough is seeking two residents to join the board. Muncy Borough Council will next meet at 7 p.m. Aug. 3 in the Muncy Borough Volunteer Fire Dept.
LOYALSOCK TOWNSHIP SCHOOL BOARD APPROVALS FROM RECENT MEETING
The Loyalsock Township School Board voted unanimously to extend the contract for Ronald Insinger, athletic director, for the coming school year, according to SUN Gazette. The USDA’s approval for schools to serve free lunches to all students, regardless of income, is extended, allowing one free breakfast and one free lunch per student per day. A contract with Hawbaker Engineering LLC to provide surveying and land development services for the proposed facility improvements projects was approved. The next meeting is at 7 p.m. Aug. 11 at the district board room, 1605 Four Mile Drive.
CHARGES HELD OVER FOR COURT FOR WILLIAMSPORT WOMAN
A Williamsport woman has been held for court for allegedly stabbing her ex-fiance and killing their 5-month-old infant daughter, following a preliminary hearing Friday. After the hearing, Corrie Cowlay-Saunders, was held for court on charges of homicide and other felonies. Cordell Faltz, Jan. 15. was stabbed in the neck, his car stolen and then crashed by Cowlay-Saunders. According to northcentralpa.com, a check the welfare led emergency personnel to find their child deceased. Cowlay-Saunders remains in the Lycoming County Prison for $50,000 bail until her formal arraignment before Lycoming County Judge Marc Lovecchio Aug. 2.
TARGET STORE IN MUNCY TOWNSHIP SUFFERS $5,000 IN THEFT OF PROPERTY
More than $5,000 in electronics department merchandise were stolen from the Target Store in Muncy Township, by two men over a period of one-year. According to a media outlet, Javonte T. Harris, 23, of Rochester, N.Y., and Carlos J. Marquez Rosado, 32, of Westfield, Pa.,. were apprehended at the store on July 11 when they were caught in the act of attempting to remove theft protection from several items, according to the State Police arrest affidavit. Both Harris and Marquez were charged with several felonies and they have a preliminary hearing at the office of District Judge Jon E. Kemp.
PENNSYLVANIA COMPANY DESIGNED, CUT AND ASSEMBLED AMERICAN OLYMPIC GYMNASTS UNIFORMS
It is the first time that GK Elite of Reading will be outfitting American Olympic gymnast, according to Penn Live.. The company is saying, “Although GK has been the manufacturer of previous Olympic Games garments, this will mark the first time that GK Elite’s branding will appear on leotards and apparel worn by the women’s and men’s gymnastics teams at the Olympic Games, an honor previously held by Under Armor and Adidas.” The GK Elite reported all of the uniforms were made in the United States. They were designed, cut and assembled at its headquarters in Reading with only a limited number of replica leotards and men’s shirts will be available for sale after the Olympic Games.
BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS JULY 16, 2021
PRODUCT RECALL
Johnson & Johnson Consumer Inc. (JJCI) is voluntarily recalling all lots of five NEUTROGENA® and AVEENO® aerosol sunscreen product lines to the consumer level. Internal testing identified low levels of benzene in some samples of the products. Consumers should stop using the affected products and follow the instructions set forth . Product images and lot information is available on www.Neutrogena.com .This recall is being conducted with the knowledge of the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.
The only sunscreen products impacted are aerosol products, specifically:
- NEUTROGENA® Beach Defense® aerosol sunscreen,
- NEUTROGENA® Cool Dry Sport aerosol sunscreen,
- NEUTROGENA® Invisible Daily™ defense aerosol sunscreen,
- NEUTROGENA® Ultra Sheer® aerosol sunscreen, and
- AVEENO® Protect + Refresh aerosol sunscreen.
AGGRAVATED ASSAULT CHARGES ON 17-YEAR-OLD … CHARGED AS ADULT
A 17-year-old Williamsport juvenile was charged as an adult due to the severity of the offenses committed, according to a release by the Williamsport Bureau of Police. Yelena Justine-Kay Olson was charged with multiple felonies. Authorities said Olson brandished a knife and stabbed and sliced a victim on the arm, wrist, and upper chest. According to the report, the victim was taken to UPMC Williamsport to receive emergency surgery. Police served a warrant on July 13 and Olson was taken before Judge William Solomon for an arraignment. Olson was held at the Lycoming County Prison in lieu of $50,000 monetary bail.
ENDANGERING THE WELFARE OF CHILDREN IN WILLIAMSPORT
Lying in the middle of a bed, unattended, and surrounded by trash, an eight-month-old child was discovered by Williamsport Police in a Maple Street home. Following the discovery of the child, Danielle Dominique Johnson, 34, of Williamsport was charged with multiple felonies. On July 14th, police reported the infant was discovered and two juveniles were walking through the neighborhoods, alone. Johnson came back to the home as Child and Youth Services and EMS arrived on scene. Johnson was taken into custody as authorities continued to investigate the home. According to the report, the infant and both juveniles were taken into custody by authorities. No bail was listed for Johnson.
A HEALING GARDEN
UPMC, and Sojourner Truth Ministries in Williamsport have partnered to offer residents of the House of Hope access to a new healing garden designed for improving physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual health. The holistic program integrates spiritual healing, counseling, life-skill development, mentoring, relationship building, budget coaching, and work readiness. The Sojourner House of Hope offers temporary housing to 12 residents facing homelessness, and provides them with support during their transition.
AMERICAN RESCUE PLAN EMERGENCY AND SECONDARY SCHOOL EMERGENCY RELIEF FUNDING NECESSARY REQUIREMENT
The federal government’s American Rescue Plan (ARP) Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief (ESSER) Fund require districts that receive the funds to submit a Health and Safety Plan by July 30 detailing what they will do to facilitate the safe return to in-person instructional and non-instructional activities this fall. With questions and concerns from parents and public and with little time to prepare and properly review of the plan, the Loyalsock Township School Board decided to table any vote on the plan until a special meeting July 21. The meeting will be held at 6 p.m. in the board conference room, 1605 Four Mile Drive.
TERRORISTIC THREATS LANDS WILLIAMSPORT MAN IN JAIL
Driving a pickup truck, Nicholas Wright, 43, Williamsport, was pulled over near West Fourth and Park streets about 4:40 p.m. on June 3 when an officer recognized him and knew his license was suspended. Upon speaking with Wright, the officer “detected an extremely strong odor of an alcoholic beverage” coming from the vehicle, court records stated. He was taken into custody and to police headquarters, where he threatened and attempted to become physical with officer. Wright was arraigned before District Judge Jon E. Kemp on charges of terroristic threats, simple assault, resisting arrest, DUI and possession of drug paraphernalia. and committed to the Lycoming County Prison in lieu of $35,000 bail.
BACK TO IN-PERSON MEETINGS FOR CITY GROUP
The city Accessibility Advisory Commission voted to move to in-person meetings with the first meeting scheduled for 3 p.m. Aug. 12 at Trade and Transit Centre II. The city continues to provide the meetings over YouTube, accessible on the city website. City Councilman Jon Mackey said that would give the city time to advertise the meeting and get other people and organizations interested in improving accessibility throughout the city parks and facilities involved, according to SUN Gazette.
CONTRACTED ORDINANCE WRITER FOR MUNCY TOWNSHIP
Muncy Township Supervisors agreed to contract an ordinance writer in preparation for the township to establish self-direction from the county’s zoning authority. The township will contract Douglas Hovey, an experienced ordinance writer, who has more than 25 years of experience in writing, drafting and formatting ordinances across Pennsylvania, and is very familiar with ordinances concerning land partitioning and zoning. The supervisors will next meet Aug. 11.
BACKUPS AND SLOWDOWNS FOR ANTLERLESS LICENSES
The new licensing system now used to issue all hunting licenses, including antlerless licenses, has experienced slowdowns during peak sales periods, according to the Pennsylvania Game Commission. The Pennsylvania Game Commission is working with NIC Inc., the vendor that operates the new HuntFishPA licensing system, toward a solution that will speed up the sales process and enhance system performance. Hunters wishing to check whether their license has been awarded can do so through HuntFishPA at https://huntfish.pa.gov.
BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS JUNE 5, 2021
RECYCLING CLOSURE
Lycoming County Resource Management Services and Upper Fairfield Officials have been working to maintain a clean, safe, and sustainable recycling drop off program located at Upper Fairfield Township municipal building. Unfortunately, the recycling site has become a location for unwanted household waste. People have been discharging waste; including tires, ceramic toilets, and other unwanted waste. Leaving such items at the site has become too much of a burden on the township and the Township Supervisors have voted to permanently close their site. The Upper Fairfield Township recycling drop site will be permanently closed after Monday, July 12.
COVID-19 CURRENT DASHBOARD
The Pennsylvania Department of Health confirmed 746 new cases of COVID-19. There were 19 new cases in Northumberland County, 4 in Potter, 3 in Union, 3 in Snyder, 3 in Lycoming, 2 in Clinton.
DONATION TO EVANGELICAL COMMUNITY HEALTH AND WELLNESS
Evangelical Community Health and Wellness was recently presented a check nearing $15,000 by Jersey Mike’s Subs in Lewisburg to support health education programs and low/no cost screens provided by the Hospital to members in the community. Donations throughout the month and 100% of the sales on their actual Day of Giving were given to Evangelical Hospital. The Lewisburg franchise has supported the Hospital since its opening in 2016.
FRIENDS OF FLIGHT 93
The desire to tell the stories of selfless heroism and bravery of the Flight 93 passengers and crew members remains strong 20 years later. Two central U.S. Government leaders at the time of the 9/11 terror attacks have joined the effort to ensure stories are not lost to history. Former Senate Majority Leader Tom Daschle and Tom Ridge, first U.S. Secretary of Homeland Security, have joined the call for nominations for the inaugural Flight 93 Heroes Award. The Friends of Flight 93 National Memorial helped by being the nonprofit partner. The Friends of Flight 93 National Memorial is inviting nominations for the First Annual Flight 93 Heroes Award. The award will be announced around September 11.
FELONIES TO BUSINESS OWNER WHO FAILED TO PROVIDE WORK AS PROMISED
The owner of Pitbull Construction & Maintenance LLC was charged with three felonies after failing to make good on a promise to complete work for a customer. Jason Port of Mill Hall was charged with theft by deception, deceptive business practices, and receiving advance payment for services and failing to perform. Port was also charged with multiple felonies back on January 4, 2021 when he allegedly promised to do work for a person and never showed up. Port was given $50,000 unsecured bail, which he posted on June 2.
SEXUAL FELONY CHARGES ON CANTON MAN
A Canton man sexually abused a child and told a woman and another girl about it in 2019, according to a Lycoming County jury. The jury found Michael Harris of Canton guilty Friday of 15 of the 16 chares presented during his criminal trial Thursday. Harris was first lagged down by the Pennsylvania State Police when Facebook forwarded a tip to the police in May 2019 regarding messages Harris sent of the Facebook Messenger platform. Harris is scheduled to be sentenced before Lycoming County Judge Ryan Tira August 5 for raped of child, statutory sexual assault and sexual other sexual felonies.
DOMESTIC RELATIONS ARREST WARRANT
The Clinton County Sheriff’s Office issued a warrant for Jeremy Lynn Slaterbeck Thursday morning. According to the release, the office holds an active warrant for Slaterbeck over domestic relations. Anyone with information is being asked to call the Clinton County Sheriff’s Office. There have also been bench warrants issued for Kyra R. Solt for Contempt of Court, Michael J. Kaleinek for domestic abuse, and James A. Coleman for Contempt of Court. Authorities ask that anyone with information about the whereabouts of these people call the Clinton County Sheriff’s Office.
CLOSING OF COVID-19 TEST SITE
Evangelical Community Hospital is closing its COVID-19 testing site at the end of next week, another sign of returning to normal in the Valley. The hospital announced Friday it will close its testing site on St. Mary Street in Lewisburg next Friday at 3 p.m. It will remain closed unless community spread dictates a future need. After next Friday, the hospital says anyone with COVID symptoms should contact their primary care provider, visit the respiratory clinic at Urgent Care of Evangelical , or go to the Emergency Department. Next Tuesday, a walk-in COVID-19 vaccine clinic is being held at the Hospital from 8-11 a.m.
WILLIAMSPORT’S SECOND FIRST FRIDAY
The city of Williamsport hosted its second First Friday of the year. People went up and down West Fourth Street, browsing crafts, purchasing food and enjoying music and company. Kids were invited to sit in the driver’s seat of a city fire department ladder truck. The Williamsport Bureau of Fire set up a tent outside City Hall and offered fire safety pamphlets and plastic fire helmets. Live music from all generations set the mood for the evening.
BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS JULY 15, 2021
DOMESTIC DISTURBANCE LANDS WILLIAMSPORT MAN IN JAIL
Two state troopers were outside Douglas Hofford’s home on Christie Avenue, off of Four Mile Drive, just after 1 a.m. Sunday when they heard glass breaking and a woman screaming according to an affidavit. The troopers took Hofford, 63, into custody. His wife had multiple cuts and bruises, according to SUN Gazette. Arraigned before District Judge Christian Frey on multiple charges, Hofford was committed to the Lycoming County Prison in lieu of $15,000 bail.
ACTIVE INVESTIGATION FOR SHOTS FIRED
Williamsport Chief of Police Justin Snyder said an investigation is active into shots allegedly fired yesterday afternoon near Little League Boulevard in Willamsport. Officers taped off areas of Little League Boulevard and Campbell Street. According to reports obtained by northcentralpa.com, a possible suspect was wearing a black ski mask and black hoodie with two possible victims. The investigation continues.
STABBING SUSPECT ARRESTED
On July 13th, 2021 at 1:49 pm Williamsport Bureau of Police Units were emergency dispatched to the area in front of 452 Market St for an alleged stabbing. – KALLIE MAE SHERMAN, was charged with stabbing victim DALTON RAYMOND in the lower left abdomen with a steak knife. RAYMOND was transported to UPMC Williamsport and received emergency surgery. Investigation identified SHERMAN as the actor. SHERMAN was taken into custody and arraigned before MDJ Christian Frey before being committed to the Lycoming County Prison in lieu of $175,000.00 bail.
INTEGRATION UNANIMOUSLY APPROVED
In a unanimous decision, the Board of Governors of the Pennsylvania State System of Higher Education voted to move ahead with combining universities, according to SUN Gazette. The vote, which begins the process of integrating Lock Haven, Mansfield and Bloomsburg universities in the east, came about 2:45 p.m. at the board’s quarterly meeting. All campuses will remain open, with integrated faculty, curriculum and enrollment, but some estimates put job losses at up to 1,500 system-wide with consolidation is to start taking place in the fall of 2022, the meeting continues Today.
AIRPORT LOOKING AT ANOTHER AIRLINE DECISION IN AUGUST
Companies interested in flying to Washington D.C. from the Williamsport Regional Airport, will be responding to surveys during the month of August, according to SUN Gazette. American Airlines, the airport’s sole commercial air service, is pulling out in late September, and as yet no carrier has been found to replace it. Richard Howell, Airport plans on holding a meeting in August, specifically including some interested businesses and the airline that the airport hopes will provide local air service.
NO DEFINITIVE EXPLANATION FOR SATURDAY NIGHT FIRE
The cause of Saturday night’s four-alarm blaze at 435-437 Park Ave at 6:10 pm that extensively damaged two separate properties and left nearly a dozen people homeless remains undetermined, according to city Fire Chief Mark Killian. The local chapter of the American Red Cross was assisting those displaced by the fire. No fire damage estimate has been released.
UPTOWN MUSIC COLLECTIVE FREE SUMMER MUSIC F ESTIVAL
The Uptown Music Collective is set to present its annual free Summer Music Festival on Saturday, July 24th at Williamsport’s Brandon Park Band Shell. The day’s festivities will begin at 1 pm and include free music performances all day, as well as vendors, raffles, and more. The Collective will be running a raffle for a brand new electric guitar donated by K & S Music in South Williamsport. The primary entertainment will be the school’s summer music showcase, presented by UMC students in full-band configurations.
LYCOMING CANDY
A new candy store is just one of the commercial property gains for Loyalsock Township Supervisors, who told us about Lycoming Candy, a new store which is opening soon in the Liberty Plaza. It may open as early as next week, according to a media outlet. According to Township Supervisors, building permits were issued for construction of the Texas Roadhouse and for Popeyes. Chipotle builders have scheduled a township planning commission meeting in August and a Tractor Supply is on the table.
CHARGES FILED ON DISCARDED FIREARM INCIDENT
Seeing a city police officer approach him at West Fourth and Diamond streets about 10:40 p.m. Friday, Dennis Prieto Jr. quickly tossed something behind a bush, according to an affidavit. The loaded handgun was immediately retrieved. Prieto, of 845 Poplar St., was brought before Frey early Saturday morning and arraigned on charges of convicted felon not to possess a firearm, carrying a firearm without a license and tampering with evidence. Court records state he was convicted in Florida in 2018 of aggravated battery. He remains jailed in lieu of $100,000 bail.
BACKYARD BROADCASTING JULY 14, 2021
8-YEAR-OLD FATALLY INJURED IN MONDAY’S CRASH
An 8-year-old has died from injuries suffered in a crash Monday afternoon in Union County. According to Montour County coroner Scott Lynn, Landyn Zerby died at 3:27 a.m. at Geisinger Medical Center in Danville. Zerby was the passenger in a vehicle that was involved in a three-vehicle crash that shut down Route 45 between Lewisburg and Mifflinburg for nearly four hours, according to the Daily Item.
ACT 66
Parents and guardians can opt for their student-age children to remain at the grade level they were at during the 2020-21 school year, however the deadline for filling out the form is tomorrow — July 15.The law — Act 66, which was signed into law on June 30 by Gov. Tom Wolf —was drafted to allow students to repeat their last grade, even if the requirements for promotion to the next grade level were achieved, in order to make up any lost educational opportunities due to the pandemic.
SOUTH WILLIAMSPORT’S HEALTH AND SAFETY PLAN
Students and staff in the South Williamsport Area School District do not have to wear masks as they head back to classrooms this fall, unless things change and the state Department of Health requires them. The school board affirmed this by unanimously approving the final draft of the district’s Health and Safety Plan, which is required by the state Department of Education for each district that receives funding under the American Rescue Plan Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief Fund.
LET’S END COVID! RECEIVES MORE FUNDING FROM LYCOMING COUNTY COMMISSIONERS
The Lycoming County commissioners approved a $25,000 allocation to River Valley Health & Dental for the Let’s End COVID group to educate the public about coronavirus and vaccinations. Thus brings the total county allocation to $50,000, as the amount requested by the organization earlier this year. The funds are being reimbursed by the Pennsylvania Emergency Management Agency according to SUN Gazette. The next commissioners’ meeting will be 10 a.m. Tuesday at Executive Plaza, 330 Pine St., Williamsport.
STEP PRESENTATION TO LYCOMING COUNTY COMMISSIONERS
The Lycoming County Commissioners, at a recent meeting, heard from Rachelle Abbott of STEP Inc. She reported the agency received 895 applications for help through the state’s Emergency Rental Assistance Program. At this point, the program has processed $1.53 million in payments to landlords and utilities on behalf of tenants in need of help as a result of losing income amid the pandemic and upwards of 800 adults and children have been helped through the program, according to Abbott. According to Sun Gazette, the next commissioners’ meeting will be 10 a.m. Tuesday at Executive Plaza, 330 Pine St., Williamsport.
UGI PIPELINE INVESTMENT PROGRAM
The Lycoming County Commissioners, at a recent meeting, approved the UGI Pipeline Investment Program agreement to bring natural gas to the Timber Run Industrial Park. Through this agreement, the county receives $287,379 in grant funding, with the stipulation that matching dollars in the amount of $552,389 from the county’s Act 13 money are allocated. According to SUN Gazette, Timber Run is to be the site of the Digger Manufacturing, which is expected to initially employ 150 people, and is scheduled to open during the first quarter of 2022. The next commissioners’ meeting will be 10 a.m. Tuesday at Executive Plaza, 330 Pine St., Williamsport.
STABBING IN WILLIAMSPORT
On July 13th, 2021 at 1:49 pm Williamsport Bureau of Police Units were emergency dispatched to the area in front of 452 Market St for an alleged stabbing. Upon responding to the area officers made contact with a male victim with an apparent stab wound to the lower abdomen, which was not life-threatening. The victim was transported to UPMC Susquehanna Health for further medical treatment. Initial information learned from the victim suggests that the attack was an isolated one and not a random act. This investigation is still ongoing. If you have any information related to this investigation please contact PO Zachary Geary at [email protected] or 570-327-7560 x7623.
SHOTS FIRED HIGH STREET, WILLIAMSPORT
On July 13, 2021 around 2:00am Williamsport Police units responded to the 400 block of High Street for a report of shots fired. Through investigation officers confirmed multiple shots were fired and collected evidence from the scene. As of this time there is no known damage or victims reported. This investigation is ongoing. If anyone has any information or video of this event please forward that to Agent Aaron Levan at 570-327- 7548 or [email protected].
FATAL MOTORCYCLE CRASH
A motorcycle carrying two Danville residents collided with a deer on the 3000 block of Stump Road in Montour County on Sunday at 10:04 p.m. State Police at Milton said both riders were thrown from the motorcycle. According to a media source, the driver, Shawn P. Dunmeyer, 46, was pronounced dead at the scene, while his passenger, Cindy K. Swanger, 37, was transported to Geisinger Medical Center for treatment for her injuries. Neither the driver nor passenger was wearing helmets, according to the news release.
LOCK HAVEN MAN CHOSEN IN MLB DRAFT
Central Mountain High School graduate Alex Garbrick, in round 17 of the MLB Draft, has been drafted by the Philadelphia Phillies.. Garbrick, who recently finished his fourth year of college ball, has been drafted in 2019, 40th round, by the New York Yankees. recently finished his fourth year of college ball at South Carolina Upstate. Draft information out of Philadelphia said “his fastball sits in the low 90-s…6-1, 210-pounder from Lock Haven, PA.” According to therecordonline.com, his Philly bio also notes he played in the 2011 Little League World Series for Keystone Little League.
BACKYARD BROADCASTING JULY 13, 2021
DUI WHILE OPERATING A HORSE AND BUGGY ON THE HIGHWAY
A 19-year-old Lycoming County man was charged with driving a horse and buggy under the influence of alcohol. According to Watsontown Police, they stopped Samuel Zook, of Montgomery, for a traffic violation in the borough around 1:45 a.m. on May 30. According to a media outlet, Zook, the driver, was charged with two misdemeanor counts of DUI and a summary count of Underage Drinking.
8-year-old FLOWN TO GEISINGER MEDICAL CENTER FOLLOWING 3 VEHICLE ACCIDENT
An eight-year-old boy was flown to the hospital and four other people were injured in yesterday’s three-vehicle crash along Route 45 in East Buffalo Township, Union County. The medical condition on the boy is unknown.According to a media source, 28-year-old Cody Zerby of Lewisburg and his young passengers, 8-year-old boy and a 3-year-old child, were waiting to make a turn on Route 45 when his vehicle was struck from behind by 68-year-old Rodger Kline of Beaver Springs. Kline’s vehicle then struck a third vehicle. In total, Officers say all five people were injured and taken to Evangelical Community Hospital for treatment and their medical conditions are unknown.
LOSING AMERICAN AIRLINES FLIGHTS
The Williamsport Regional Airport is losing its American Airlines flights, but officials are working to find an alternative passenger service. American Airlines will maintain flights through September. These once-a-day flights, Monday through Friday have been a draw to those arriving and leaving the airport. According to Airport Executive Director Richard Howell airport officials are hoping to soon learn what specific companies are interested in flights to the D.C. area.
LYCOMING AND UNION COUNTIES FROM “LOW” TO “MODERATE” RANKING
An upgrade in test-positive rates per 100,000 people in the past week, has taken Lycoming County and Union County from “low” to “moderate”. The reports are an early warning monitoring system,” Barbara Hemmendinger of the Lycoming County Health Improvement Coalition reported. As of last Thursday, 40.2 percent of Lycoming County’s population is fully vaccinated, while 33.6 percent of Clinton County’s population is fully vaccinated. On July 20, from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m., River Valley Health and Dental Center will offer vaccines in the Lycoming County Fair’s Red Cross building.
VACCINATION LOCTIONS
According to Barbara Hemmendinger of the Lycoming County Health Improvement Coalition, “Unless a person is fully vaccinated, which does not occur until at least two weeks following that person’s final dose (of the vaccine), that individual is not adequately protected against the Delta variant.” Tomorrow, as well as on July 21 and 28, from 1 to 4 p.m., the Williamsport YMCA will host a walk-in COVID-19 vaccine clinic provided by River Valley Health and Dental Center. On July 19, UPMC will administer vaccines at the Lycoming County Fair.
VOTING FOR INTEGRATION TOMORROW
The Pennsylvania State System of Higher Education’s governing body — the Board of Governors — is scheduled to vote tomorrow, on integrating Mansfield and LHU with Bloomsburg. The action began a 60-day public comment period which displayed an overwhelming majority of opposition to the integration, according to SUN Gazette. The quarterly public meetings will start at 10:30 a.m. tomorrow and will resume at 10 a.m. on Thursday via Zoom. Both can be streamed via Youtube.
TWO WIN ROTARY CLUB HONORS
In addition to distribution of community grants, the Rotary Club of Williamsport honored two individuals who demonstrated the respected notary value of “service above self” and, yesterday, received the honor of Rotarian of the Year and Non-Rotarian of the Year. Theresa Kohler, treasurer of Rotary Club, was appointed this year’s Rotarian of the Year. The Non-Rotarian of the Year Award was given to Cleveland Way, shelter director at American Rescue Workers.
ROTARY CLUB COMMUNITY GRANTS
The Rotary Club of Williamsport issued community grants totalling upwards of $3,500. The James V. Brown Library received a grant for the “We Are Water Protectors” books as part of its summer reading program, and Safe Kids Lycoming County for a carbon monoxide detector program, among others. Expectation Women’s Center also received a grant, as did Sojourner Truth Ministries, AIDS Resource Alliance, Greater Lycoming Habitat for Humanity, American Rescue Workers and North Central Sight Services.
HIGH SPEED PURSUIT THROUGH CITY ARREST
A Williamsport man led police on a high-speed chase through the city of Williamsport told officers he wanted to get a coffee. Kevin Lee Stabler, 60, of Williamsport was charged with felony fleeing from an officer and several summery traffic offenses, stemming from stop signs and red lights to high speed, after authorities were able to locate him. Stabler was given $15,000 unsecured bail, which he posted on July 6 and is scheduled to appear in Lycoming County Court on July 12 for a preliminary hearing.
LEAP CENTER AT PENN COLLEGE
Pennsylvania College of Technology recently created a LEAP Center which will place an emphasis on assisting students through their first year by functioning as an advisory source. LEAP stands for ‘Learning, Evolving, Adapting, Preparing, which is an affirmation of Penn College’s continued commitment to student success, according to a media outlet. The LEAP Center officially opened on July 1. With a primary objective is to increase student retention and enhance recruitment. Christie Bing Kraker officially began her duties as Director of LEAP on June 23. She brings over 25 years of experience with post-secondary experience to Penn College.
GOV TOM WOLF IN STATE COLLEGE TO SUPPORT ACT 26
Governor Tom Wolf yesterday joined Penn State University (PSU) athletes, university leadership and lawmakers at Beaver Stadium to celebrate the passing of Act 26 of 2021. It amends the Public School Code to allow athletes at Pennsylvania colleges to earn money from endorsements, such as sponsorships and appearances, and still be allowed to compete. Act 26 does not allow student athletes to receive payment for playing a sport or athletic achievement; rather, Pennsylvania’s new law provides student athletes with an opportunity to benefit financially from their NIL. Gov Tom Wolf remarks, “This is an exciting moment for athletes and colleges in Pennsylvania, and I am proud to sign the law allowing for these opportunities.”
BUCKNELL UNIVERSITY CHANGES FOLLOWING ATTEMPTED BREAK IN AT TOWER HOUSE
Bucknell President John Bravman announced yesterday he’s making Fran’s House, also known as Tower House, the permanent campus affinity house for LGBTQ students. Bravman also reports the Philadelphia law firm’s investigation found no evidence the students who attempted to break into the house were motivated by bias against the residents and their LGBTQ affinity. However, the investigation highlighted the need for additional practical training and a cultural assessment of University Public Safety. BU is working to engage recognized experts in the field of campus safety to review institutional practices and assess campus culture.
LOCK HAVEN CITY COUNCIL TAKING TIME TO FEDERAL AMERICAN RESCUE PLAN FUNDS
Lock Haven City Council set out to spend with purpose, the $950,000 the city received in federal American Rescue Plan funds. With a list of possibilities and a price tag of upwards of $1.6 million, it is ultimately up to council how to divvy up the federal funds.. City Manager Greg Wilson told council last night it has until the end of 2024 to determine how to allocate the funds. The city manager said with limited funds and unlimited ideas as to the best use of those funds, the ranking will help the city’s staff know where to start to devote their time to make the best use of this one-time resource.
ANTIQUE AUTOMOBILE CLUB OF AMERICA VISITS LOCK HAVEN
Clinton County this week rolls out the red carpet for a group of antique auto lovers. About 75 members of the Antique Automobile Club of America (AACA) are in Lock Haven for their “Lost in the Woods” Vintage Tour. There are 35 vehicles in the tour, all of them dating from 1931 and older! Participants trailered in the antique autos and then drive them on day trips throughout the week. According to therecordonline.com, members of the tour welcome questions and enjoy showing off their antique autos. The group checked into the Fairfield Inn & Suites in Lock Haven on Sunday.