BACKYARD BROADCASTING, LOCAL NEWS NOVEMBER 2, 2021

BELLS ARE RINGING

It was a sound the neighbors have been without for upwards of three months, as reported by the SUN Gazette. The original brass St. Boniface bells, around 146 years old, are ringing again following necessary renovations. They were returned to their hanging tower, which has been their perch since the church was founded in 1875, and blessed on Sunday in front of a crowd of more than 75 excited residents, family and friends.

FLAMES ENGULF TRUCK TRACTOR

Flames embraced a truck tractor, which caught fire as it was sat in a private parking lot in the 700 block of Route 405 in Wolf Township around 3:30 am on Saturday.  According to SUN Gazette, the fire remains under investigation, as the cause was immediately unknown. Although the fire did not spread to the trailer filled with potatoes, it took over 20 minutes to bring under control.

TURKEY SEASON IN PA

Pennsylvania’s fall turkey season kicked off Saturday, Oct. 30 in 20 of Pennsylvania’s 23 Wildlife Management Units and there’s reason for hunters to be excited. Turkey reproduction was well above average this past summer, translating to above average fall flock sizes that are worth pursuing. Hunters should take note the 2021 fall turkey season is shorter in 14 Wildlife management units.. Shotguns, archery tackle, or muzzleloading firearms are the only lawful implements that may be used. Centerfire and rimfire rifles are no longer permitted for fall turkey hunting. Fall turkey season lengths are as follows: Wildlife management units 4D and 4E – Oct. 30-Nov. 6;  WMUs 2G, 3B, Oct. 30-Nov. 13;

CHARGES FILED AND IN JAIL

A LAPTOP which, according to police, had multiple photos of young girls with an older female performing sexually-explicit activities. Duane Laidacker, Hughesville, has been arrested after illegal images were found on a computer tablet mid-February, according to a criminal complaint filed at the office of District Judge Jon E. Kemp. According to SUN Gazette, Laidacker charged with a felony of possession of child pornography and jailed in lieu of $10,000 bail.

CHARGES AND A TRIP TO THE HOSPITAL

A physical altercation between brothers involved charges and a trip to the hospital.  Robert Lin Miller, Montoursville has been charged with simple assault and harassment following a physical confrontation with his brother, Kevin, in mid-October, according to SUN Gazeette.  The assault began shortly after Kevin Miller arrived at his brother’s home about 4:45 p.m. on Oct. 12.  A second confrontation occurred outside and Kevin Miller was taken to UPMC Williamsport.  Robert Miller waived his preliminary hearing and is free on $10,000 bail.

PLEA OF NO CONTEST

It was an 2018 homicide of a 19-month-old child which brought an Old Lycoming Township to court. There, he plead no contest to involuntary manslaughter yesterday. Jason Forsyth, did not offer contest.  The morning of Dec. 21, 2018, the child was last under Forsyth’s care the child was rushed to UPMC Williamsport, where he was declared dead just before 10 a.m. The autopsy, according to Martin Wade, Lycoming County prosecutor, the child suffered from blunt force trauma including a skull fracture with other corresponding injuries. According to an online news outlet, sentencing will occur mid-December and President Judge Nancy Butts reported Forsyth could face upwards of  5-10 years in state prison and up to a $25,000 fine. Forsyth remains incarcerated in Lycoming County Prison.

COVID-19 CASES REPORTED IN KEYSTONE CENTRAL

– Keystone Central School District Superintendent Jacquelyn Martin, with her  monthly report issued yesterday, said there are 16 known positive cases of COVID-19 within the district; compared to 27 one month ago. The number equates to less than 1 percent of the student population. Elementary cases (grades K-4) number seven and secondary (grades 5-12) total nine. Current cases among staff total eight, same as a month ago. The report continued by saying Clinton County remains at a high level of community spread.

NATIONAL WEATHER ALERT FROM STATE COLLEGE

…FREEZE WARNING IN EFFECT FROM MIDNIGHT TONIGHT TO 9 AM EDT

WEDNESDAY…

Sub-freezing temperatures as low as 30 expected for portions of central Pennsylvania. From midnight tonight to 9 AM EDT Wednesday. Freeze conditions will kill sensitive vegetation. This will likely bring and end to the growing season. Take protective measures now as freezing temperatures could damage or kill tender plants and vegetation.

WHITETAIL DEER ON THE MOVE THROUGH COMMONWEALTH

With deer becoming increasingly active, and daylight-saving time soon to put more vehicles on the road during the hours when deer move most, the Pennsylvania Game Commission is advising motorists to slow down and stay alert. Deer become more active in autumn with the lead-up to their fall breeding season, commonly referred to as the “rut.” Around this time, many yearling bucks disperse from the areas in which they were born and travel, sometimes several dozen miles, to find new ranges. Meanwhile, adult bucks more often are cruising their home ranges in search of does, and they sometimes chase the does they encounter. When daylight-saving time ends Nov. 7, there also will be increased vehicular traffic between dusk and dawn – the peak hours for deer activity. “While the peak of the rut still is a few weeks off, deer already have ramped up their activity and are crossing roads more frequently,” said Game Commission Executive Director Bryan Burhans.

WEBSITE TO HELP VOTERS OF PENNSYLVANIA

​In preparation for Pennsylvania’s municipal general election on Nov. 2, Acting Secretary of State Veronica Degraffenreid reminds Pennsylvanians they can find comprehensive voting information at vote.pa.gov. “The vote.pa.gov site is a one-stop shop for Pennsylvania voters. They can verify their registration, locate their polling place and find out how to return their mail ballot, among other important information,” Secretary Degraffenreid said. “We encourage all eligible voters to be fully informed about their rights and to vote in the election.” Another fantastic resource for voters is the Lycoming County Voter Services page at lyco.org/vote … there you can  see Unofficial Election Night Results (will update after close of polls) Statewide Results Sample Ballots  Polling Place List and other tools for the voter.

COVID-19 CASES IN OUR AREA

The Pa Dept of Health released new COVID-19 numbers for our area. Lycoming County has 20 new cases, 100 in Northumberland County 21 in Snyder County 49 in Union County and 12 Montour cases.

GEISINGER RESOLVING ALLEGATIONS

The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Geisinger Community Health Services (GCHS) has agreed to pay $18,513,621.05 to resolve allegations of civil liability for submitting claims to Medicare for hospice and home health services that violated Medicare rules and regulations.  GCHS voluntarily disclosed the violations. According to the voluntary disclosures, between January 2012 and December 2017, through several affiliated entities, GCHS submitted claims to Medicare for hospice and home health services that violated Medicare rules and regulations regarding physician certifications of terminal illness, patient elections of hospice care, and physician face-to-face encounters with home health patients.  After it discovered the problems, GCHS took corrective action and disclosed the matter to the United States Attorney’s Office.

BACKYARD BROADCASTING, LOCAL NEWS NOVEMBER 1, 2021

HIS RETIREMENT BEGAN ON FRIDAY

After 15 years as its director, Eric Butler’s last day was Friday. He leaves his position at the Lycoming Career and Technology Center. Butler saw many improvements since he began. For example, the new building on the East Lycoming School District campus has allowed for all class types to be in the same building. He saw their attendance increase, as the number of districts sending kids increased from 4 to 5. According to SUN Gazette, Butler, looking back, truly enjoyed his job, saying the kids, staff and support were great. “Honestly, it’s a great place.”

NEW JOB,  NEW YEAR

A new director will be stepping into his new role, at the Lycoming Career and Technology Center. Nathan Minium begins in January, as Eric Butler retires. Minimum arrives with experience from the Warrior Run and Milton Area School Districts. His principal and assistant principal work extended from the elementary to the high schools.  According to SUN Gazette, a local man, he hails from New Columbia and graduated from Lycoming College.

COVID-19 UPDATED NUMBERS FOR LOCAL AREA

The Pennsylvania Department of Health on Sunday reported new COVID-19 cases statewide, a second straight day of declining numbers. In Clinton County 12 new cases were reported, Centre County saw an increase of 39, while Lycoming County increased by 49, Tioga County had 17 new cases, 48 new infections in Northumberland County, the fifth consecutive day with at least that many in the county. There were also six new cases in Montour and Snyder counties and four in Union.

POLICE PURSUIT ONTO ROUTE 80         

A police pursuit that began in Lycoming County, 2 a.m.  Saturday morning. It continued, according to state police in Montoursville, south on Route 15 and onto Route 80.  Although they did not release further information, sources say police employed spike strips and pit maneuvers in an attempt to end the pursuit. As reported by an online news source, the pursuit ended in an accident and that investigation continues.

A NEW CHRISTMAS PROGRAM FOR SOUTH WILLIAMSPORT

It’s a new Christmas program for the South Williamsport Police Department and they are holding sign up nights for families that wish to be a recipient of gifts provided by the Christmas program. There will be two (2) sign up dates: Saturday, November 13th from noon-3pm and Monday, December 6th from 5pm-8pm. If you have any questions or concerns about the program, please contact: the South Williamsport Police Department.

IMPORTANT HOLIDAY CELEBRATIONS TO REMEMBER

Williamsport Mayor Derek Slaughter asks residents to please save the dates for these two upcoming events; Friday, November 19th at 6:00 — Children’s Magical Christmas Parade will take place downtown on 4th Street from Market Street to Elmira Street and  Friday, December 3rd from 5:00-8:00 — Festival of Lights and Open-Air Holiday Market in Brandon Park.

SENATOR YAW WORKS TO STOP SPOOFING

State Senator Gene Yaw recently announced in  an effort to crack down on deceptive and nuisance telephone calls, the Senate on Monday approved a bill, 49-0, banning the practice of caller ID “spoofing.” Senate Bill 236 is designed to protect citizens from misleading telemarketing “robocalls,” particularly those that disguise their real phone number by making it look like a local number, increasing the likelihood that the call will be answered.

 

GOVERNOR VISITS THE VALLEY ON FRIDAY

Governor Tom Wolf toured the Fresh Roasted Coffee in Sunbury  and announced the state is investing more than $1.7 million to support the company’s expansion in Northumberland County, which is growing its production capacity, creating 46 new, full-time jobs and retaining 35 jobs. “My administration is pleased to support Fresh Roasted Coffee as the company continues to grow in Pennsylvania,” said Gov. Wolf. “This expansion project will create nearly 50 jobs in the Sunbury area and redevelop a large and important building for this community. Projects like this benefit families, strengthen our economy and build a brighter future for Pennsylvania.”

THE OBSTETRICS UNIT RECEIVES HONORS

The Family place, which is the obstetrics unit at Evangelical Community Hospital, has earned several honors recently from both The Jewish Healthcare Foundation and the Vermont Oxford Network. According to a news release from the hospital the Pennsylvania Perinatal Quality Collaborative award of $15,000 in recognition of quality improvement milestones. This provided because the hospital improved care for pregnant and postpartum women with opioid use disorder and their newborns with neonatal abstinence syndrome just one of 17 hospitals in the state that achieved the excellence designation.

WHERE TO FIND THE FINAL TALLY ON TUESDAY NIGHT

You have your sticker and you have voted. Now, you want to discover where your government hopefuls place in the final tally.  When the polls close 8 p.m. Tuesday night, you can utilize the lyco.org/electionresults website to find the Election Night results for local contests within Lycoming County. These unofficial results are counted, including those votes cast in person throughout Lycoming County’s 81 precincts. It also includes most of the mail in votes.  Write-in numbers will show but no name or individual vote counts. Those take up to ten days to tally. The Pennsylvania Supreme, Superior and Commonwealth Court results can be found electionreturns.pa.gov.

NATURAL GAS INTO GASOLINE IN NORTHEASTERN PA

A Texas-based company has announced plans to build a multibillion-dollar plant on the site of a former coal mine in northeastern Pennsylvania to develop fuels from natural gas, which officials say will bring thousands of jobs to the area. Officials announced at an online news conference Friday that Houston-based Nacero Inc. plans to invest $6 billion in the Newport Township plant, which will use gas from the Marcellus Shale reservoir, which has produced more gas than any other reservoir in the nation. “We are going to be making gasoline, which is our largest commodity consumer product, from natural gas and renewable natural gas,” said Thomas Tureen, chairman of the board. Pennsylvania is second only to Texas in the production of natural gas.

BACKYARD BROADCASTING, LOCAL NEWS OCTOBER 31, 2021

CHILD PORNOGRAPHY

On February 15th, State Police in Montoursville received a tip from Children and Youth that Duane Laidacker of Hughesville had taken sexually explicit photographs of a child.  Police obtained a warrant and seized several electronics from his home. Laidacker was charged with a third-degree felony of child pornography by Judge Jon Kemp, who set bail at $10,000 monetary. Laidacker’s preliminary hearing is scheduled for Nov. 12. (NCP)

DISORDERLY PATIENT AT ROBERT PACKER HOSPITAL

Police were called to the scene after a patient became irate and attempted to spit on and hit staff members at the Robert Packer Hospital. Gregory Jackson of Ithac, NY told officers with the Sayre Borough Police Department he was going to fight and spit on them as they entered the room.  After talking to staff, officers say Jackson allegedly spit on and kicked a nurse and a doctor.  Jackson was charged with six counts of second-degree felony aggravated assault, third-degree misdemeanor disorderly conduct, and summary harassment.  Jackson will remain at the Bradford County Prison until a preliminary hearing with Judge Larry Hurley on Nov. 9. (NCP)

STEM COMPETITION

The Governor’s STEM competition is going on again throughout the state.  The program provides an opportunity for students to engage in long-term research with other students and work with business in the community to help design their project.  Each team receives initial prototype funding and proceeds to the state-wide competition in April 2022.  Each team must register their interest in the program by November 19. The contest is open to all kids’ grades 9-12 with a max group size of 5.  For more info visit the Department of Education’s website. (NCP)

LEVEL IV TRAUMA CLASSIFICATION

The Geisinger Jersey Shore Hospital will now function as a Level IV Trauma Center, effective Monday. In an announcement Friday, they said they will be able to provide enhanced care to patients and be able to transfer patients to higher level trauma centers when needed. The release refers to a trauma center as a specialiazed hospital where they will be able to provide care to patients of a more complex and critical nature. (SUN)

AGGRAVATED ASSAULT CHARGES

Officers with the Danville Borough Police Department arrived at a residence after a man allegedly punched a woman in the face causing swelling and bleeding.  Tyrell Thomas of Danville allegedly slapped the woman twice before a punch was thrown. Thomas then fled in the victim’s car before the cops arrived. Thomas was charged with first-degree aggravated assault, second-degree misdemeanor simple assault, and second-degree unauthorized use of motor vehicles.  He posted $10,000 monetary bail through a Professional Bondsman.  Thomas will meet with Judge Marvin Shrawder on Nov. 4 for a preliminary hearing. (NCP)

UNWANTED VISITOR ASSAULTS RESIDENT

After asking an individual to leave his residence, a man was allegedly  put into a rear naked chokehold by his unwelcome visitor in Woodward Township.  Eric Lee Sagen of Linden was charged with second-degree strangulation after the incident at the residence.  Sagan allegedly entered the house screaming and demanding a meeting with the owner.  Sagan is being held at the Lycoming County Prison in lieu of $10,000 monetary bail. A preliminary hearing with Judge Gary Whiteman is scheduled for Nov. 3. (NCP)

CRASH SENDS DRIVERS TO HOSPITAL

The driver of  Chevrolet Malibu was taken by ambulance to UPMC Williamsport to be treated for injuries when his car and a Subaru collided at West Fourth and Moore Avenue about 6:40 p.m. Friday.  Following the collision , the Chevrolet struck the front of a home.  Besides police, UPMC paramedics and city firefighters responded to the crash. More information  has yet to be released. (SUN)

COVID-19 UPDATE NUMBERS FOR REGION

The Pennsylvania Department of Health confirmed 4,366 new cases of COVID-19. There were 52 new cases in Northumberland County, 45 in Union, 15 in Snyder, and 6 in Montour. (DI)

Tom Kent’s Classic Hits Countdown

Tom Kent’s Classic Hits Countdown

Growing up, I use to love to listen to Casey’s countdowns on the radio. He was and is the “king of the countdown”. With my passion for the countdown show, I set forth to create a show that would be very different from Casey’s countdowns. “The Classic Hits Countdown” doesn’t target a specific time period or era but rather locks in on a different theme each week. For instance, we might be going into the Summer and decide to countdown the 40 biggest Summer songs. Another example might be the first of the year right after New Year’s Day, we might countdown the 40 biggest “first hits” of an artist or group. Just like all of our shows, the theme will be fun and personality driven as we countdown from number 40 to number FUN!

Rewind with Gary Bryan

Rewind with Gary Bryan

The best classic hits are on ‘REWIND’ with Gary Bryan. Cool features, trivia, tidbits and the greatest hits of all time Saturday morning at 6am!

BACKYARD BROADCASTING, LOCAL NEWS OCTOBER 30, 2021

LEVEL IV TRAUMA FOR GEISINGER JERSEY SHORE HOSPITAL

Geisinger Jersey Shore Hospital has been granted Level IV Trauma Center accreditation by the Pennsylvania Trauma Systems Foundation, adding important resources for the community when the trauma designation goes into effect on Nov. 1. As a Level IV trauma center, Geisinger Jersey Shore will be able to provide enhanced care to injured patients within the hospitals’ emergency departments and stabilize and transfer patients to higher-level trauma centers, if needed. In order to receive the designation, both hospitals went through a thorough review process that included an onsite review of each hospital’s resources and capabilities to care for patients with traumatic injuries.

 

FEMALE IDENTIFIED IN CRIMINAL MISCHIEF AND SUBSEQUENT THEFT

On Oct. 22nd at approximately 12:49 a.m., a Little League Statue located at the corner of Third and Market Streets in Williamsport was damaged by a group of males.  The Williamsport Bureau of Police has reported they have identified the female who left the area with the broken bat from the statue.  The Bureau is requesting assistance in finding the male who damaged the statue. If you have any information concerning the identity of the male, please call officer Andrew Stevens at the Williamsport bureau of police. Please see our Facebook page for the video to see if you can identify who damaged the statue.

 

PARTNERSHIP YIELDS RESULTS

Wesley Russitano and Michelle Sampson were arrested today on felony drug charges. Old Lycoming Police and the LCNEU stopped the pair after they attempted a delivery of heroin at a Lycoming Twp business. Both were arraigned in front of a Magistrate District Judge and committed to Lycoming County Prison in lieu of $100,000 bail. On their Facebook page, the Old Lycoming Police commented, “A great example of OLPD and LCNEU working jointly to send a clear message that drug dealing won’t be tolerated in the Lycoming Creek Corridor.”

A NEW CHRISTMAS PROGRAM FOR SOUTH WILLIAMSPORT

It’s a new Christmas program for the South Williamsport Police Department and they are holding sign up nights for families that wish to be a recipient of gifts provided by the Christmas program. There will be two (2) sign up dates: Saturday, November 13th from noon-3pm and Monday, December 6th from 5pm-8pm. If you would like to sign up for either of the dates above, please call the department at 570-327-8152, Monday-Friday between 8am-4pm to request a time slot. Please provide the following documents when you arrive: Proof of residency within South Williamsport or Duboistown, proof of guardianship of child(ren), each child is 15 years of age or under, and a list of 3-4 desired gifts.

If you have any questions or concerns about the program, please contact: the South Williamsport Police Department.

 

IMPORTANT HOLIDAY CELEBRATIONS TO REMEMBER

Williamsport Mayor Derek Slaughter asks residents to please save the dates for these two upcoming events; Friday, November 19th at 6:00 — Children’s Magical Christmas Parade will take place downtown on 4th Street from Market Street to Elmira Street and  Friday, December 3rd from 5:00-8:00 — Festival of Lights and Open-Air Holiday Market in Brandon Park.

SENATOR YAW WORKS TO STOP SPOOFING

State Senator Gene Yaw recently announced in  an effort to crack down on deceptive and nuisance telephone calls, the Senate on Monday approved a bill, 49-0, banning the practice of caller ID “spoofing.”

Senate Bill 236 is designed to protect citizens from misleading telemarketing “robocalls,” particularly those that disguise their real phone number by making it look like a local number, increasing the likelihood that the call will be answered.

 

GOVERNOR VISITS THE VALLEY ON FRIDAY

Governor Tom Wolf toured the Fresh Roasted Coffee in Sunbury  and announced the state is investing more than $1.7 million to support the company’s expansion in Northumberland County, which is growing its production capacity, creating 46 new, full-time jobs and retaining 35 jobs. “My administration is pleased to support Fresh Roasted Coffee as the company continues to grow in Pennsylvania,” said Gov. Wolf. “This expansion project will create nearly 50 jobs in the Sunbury area and redevelop a large and important building for this community. Projects like this benefit families, strengthen our economy and build a brighter future for Pennsylvania.”

COVID-19 LOCAL NUMBERS FOR FRIDAY

 The Pennsylvania Department of Health on Friday reported new COVID-19 cases statewide, in Clinton County 21 new cases were reported, Centre County saw an increase of 46, while Lycoming County increased by 64, 59 in Northumberland County, 14 in Snyder, 12 in Union and eight in Montour. Northumberland County has had at least 20 new cases over each of the past 10 days.

SENTENCING IN NORTHUMBERLAND COUNTY CHILD ENDANGERING CASE

She was set on suicide, telling the judge she had a finger on the trigger,  moments before State Police arrived to apprehend her yesterday morning.  Tonia Lee Sones, the Watsontown mother who was charged and then convicted of causing brain damage to her daughter by leaving her in a hot car for upwards of five hours, was picked up by state police on a bench warrant. Sones failed to appear before Northumberland County Judge Charles Saylor for sentencing Friday. According to the Daily Item, she was out on bail since 2018.  On Friday, Judge Saylor sentenced Sones to 4 1/2 to 10 years in prison. Sone’s daughter, who recently turned five, has never fully recovered, but she remains the legal custody of her maternal grandmother.  

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

BACKYARD BROADCASTING, LOCAL NEWS OCTOBER 29, 2021

LEVEE CONSTRUCTION GETTING CLOSER TO A REALITY

After 10 years in the planning stages, two levee-related projects are under way. According to Jon Sander, Williamsport City engineer, a total of seven of what seems to be the worst cross pipes, which were placed upwards of 60 years ago,  found in the Newberry section of Williamsport are in the process of getting a facelift by Wood Engineering and construction could begin as early as next year.  According to SUN Gazette, the levee must be certified or those protected by it must pay flood insurance. The total price tag, which includes cost of the design and construction is around $750,000.

COVID-19 UPDATED NUMBERS FOR OUR AREA

The Pennsylvania Department of Health on Thursday reported new COVID-19 cases statewide, in Clinton County 37 new cases were reported, Centre County saw an increase of 46, while Lycoming County  91, Tioga has 23,  79 new cases in Northumberland County, 28 in Union, 10 in Snyder and nine in Montour.

INSTAGRAM MESSAGES TO JUVENILE GETS DANVILLE MAN ARRESTED

State police arrested a Danville man accused of sending sexually explicit messages and images to a 14-year-old girl. Jacob Ezra Reedy, allegedly sent messages and images to the girl through Instagram. The police were alerted by the child’s mother on Dec. 4. The child and mother reside in Union County. State police at Milton, charged Reedy with multiple felonies and he was arraigned yesterday  by Magisterial District Judge Jeffrey Rowe and returned to Northumberland County Jail, Coal Township, where he’s held on $150,000 cash bail in a related case.

GOVERNOR WOLF VISITING THE REGION

Gov. Tom Wolf is coming back to the Valley today. His office announced the Governor is stopping by a Sunbury-Based Coffee Company, and will announce State Investment for Major Expansion and New Jobs. According to an online media outlet, the project is designed to create upwards of 50 jobs that will benefit the Northumberland County economy.

POLICE STRESS SAFETY THIS WEEKEND

With Halloween taking place this weekend; police throughout the Susquehanna Valley, police are increasing enforcement of those who drive while under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Police remind motorists that driving under the influence of a legal or illegal substance  can lead to driving impairment and lead to injury or death. According to a media outlet, you are urged to pass your keys to a sober driver and arrive alive. “If you feel different, you drive different.”

POLICE REQUESTING ASSISTANCE

On October 26, a woman entered 105 Maynard Street and stole a Samsung Galaxy tablet belonging to the business. The WBP is asking for assistance in identifying this individual. If you have any information regarding the identity of this individual please contact Cpl Dustin Reeder The Williamsport Bureau of Police. The images are available on Facebook at WILQ  WBZD   WZXR

POLICE REQUESTING ASSISTANCE

At the intersection of W Third St @ Market St – On October 22nd , at approximately 12:49 am, a group of male individuals was seen walking east toward the Little League Statue located at the corner of Third St and Market St. As they approached, one of the males dressed in a blue cap, long-sleeved blue shirt, and blue shorts forcefully kicked at and pulled the bat from the statue before placing it onto the ground. Later, at 2:00 am a male and female walking south toward the bridge observed the broken bat on the ground. The female retrieved the bat and, after taking photos with it, left the area heading south with the broken bat from the statue.   The Williamsport Bureau of Police is requesting assistance in identifying both the male individual who damaged the statue and the female who left the area with the broken bat from the statue. If you have any information concerning the identity of these individuals please contact PO Andrew Stevens at the Williamsport Bureau of Police. The images are available on Facebook at WILQ  WBZD  WZXR

WINTER DRIVING IN PA IS BECOMING EASIER

Winter driving is coming. Here in north central pa, we cannot avoid it. But there are ways to help deal with it. The public can access travel information on nearly 40,000 state-maintained roadway miles year-round at www.511PA.com, and during the winter they can find plow-truck locations and details of when state-maintained roadways were last plowed. The information is made possible by PennDOT’s Automated Vehicle Location (AVL) technology, which uses units in each of the over 2,500 department-owned and rented plow trucks to send a cellular signal showing where a truck is located. To help the public prepare for the season and share information about winter services, PennDOT offers operational information and traveler resources at www.penndot.gov/winter.  Motorists can check conditions on more than 40,000 roadway miles, including color-coded winter conditions on 2,900 miles, 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. 511PA is also available through a free smartphone application for iPhone and Android devices, by calling 5-1-1, or by following regional twitter alerts accessible on the 511PA website.

POLICE ARE ASKING HELP TO IDENTIFY A SUSPICIOUS MAN

Psp Milton responded and investigated a reported suspicious person/vehicle that occurred in the area of Tower Dr/Bloom Rd, Cooper Twp Montour County on Oct 26 at approximately 4 pm. It was reported a juvenile was approached a short time after exiting a school bus by an unidentified white male who was operating silver small compact sedan and was repeatedly asked about needing a ride home.  The unidentified male can be described as being approx. mid to late 50s in age, heavy set, bald head, ginger/gray speckle mustache, facial/neck discoloration/scaring and wore thick framed square glasses. The juvenile involved was not harmed during this incident.  Anyone with information on similar incidents or have any information to supply with helping identify the suspicious person involved in this encounter is urged to contact PSP Milton.

LOYALSOCK TOWNSHIP SUPERVISORS UPCOMING BUDGET

Although they were told the proposed 2022 budget looked good, Loyalsock Township supervisors have not disclosed details as of yet. According to Loyalsock Township Manager Bill Burdett, a public work session is on hand to review the fund balance with the finance committee. With no proposed tax increase, real estate taxes are estimated to remain the same at 0.5 mills.

LOYALSOCK TOWNSHIP PUBLIC HEARING FOR PARKING

In Loyalsock Township, the supervisors plan on a public hearing regarding no parking for portion of Miller Avenue between Sheridan Street and the Community Park Nov. 9 at 7:15 pm. According to SUN Gazette, the bicycle path has been used during Little League games for parking.

LOYALSOCK TOWNSHIP PUBLIC HEARING SNOW PARKING

In Loyalsock Township, it is a public hearing for a proposed ordinance detailing no parking during snow events Nov. 23,  7 pm. As reported by the SUN Gazette, the ordinance for this first year, is much like an experiment for more congested zones. According to Township Solicitor Mike Wiley, the penalty structure is currently under review.

LEVEE CONSTRUCTION GETTING CLOSER TO A REALITY

After 10 years in the planning stages, two levee-related projects are under way. According to Jon Sander, Williamsport City engineer, a total of seven of what seems to be the worst cross pipes, which were placed upwards of 60 years ago,  found in the Newberry section of Williamsport are in the process of getting a facelift by Wood Engineering and construction could begin as early as next year.  According to SUN Gazette, the levee must be certified or those protected by it must pay flood insurance. The total price tag, which includes cost of the design and construction is around $750,000.

COVID-19 UPDATED NUMBERS FOR OUR AREA

The Pennsylvania Department of Health on Thursday reported new COVID-19 cases statewide, in Clinton County 37 new cases were reported, Centre County saw an increase of 46, while Lycoming County  91, Tioga has 23,  79 new cases in Northumberland County, 28 in Union, 10 in Snyder and nine in Montour.

INSTAGRAM MESSAGES TO JUVENILE GETS DANVILLE MAN ARRESTED

State police arrested a Danville man accused of sending sexually explicit messages and images to a 14-year-old girl. Jacob Ezra Reedy, allegedly sent messages and images to the girl through Instagram. The police were alerted by the child’s mother on Dec. 4. The child and mother reside in Union County. State police at Milton, charged Reedy with multiple felonies and he was arraigned yesterday  by Magisterial District Judge Jeffrey Rowe and returned to Northumberland County Jail, Coal Township, where he’s held on $150,000 cash bail in a related case.

GOVERNOR WOLF VISITING THE REGION

Gov. Tom Wolf is coming back to the Valley today. His office announced the Governor is stopping by a Sunbury-Based Coffee Company, and will announce State Investment for Major Expansion and New Jobs. According to an online media outlet, the project is designed to create upwards of 50 jobs that will benefit the Northumberland County economy.

POLICE STRESS SAFETY THIS WEEKEND

With Halloween taking place this weekend; police throughout the Susquehanna Valley, police are increasing enforcement of those who drive while under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Police remind motorists that driving under the influence of a legal or illegal substance  can lead to driving impairment and lead to injury or death. According to a media outlet, you are urged to pass your keys to a sober driver and arrive alive. “If you feel different, you drive different.”

POLICE REQUESTING ASSISTANCE

On October 26, a woman entered 105 Maynard Street and stole a Samsung Galaxy tablet belonging to the business. The WBP is asking for assistance in identifying this individual. If you have any information regarding the identity of this individual please contact Cpl Dustin Reeder The Williamsport Bureau of Police. The images are available on Facebook at WILQ  WBZD   WZXR

POLICE REQUESTING ASSISTANCE

At the intersection of W Third St @ Market St – On October 22nd , at approximately 12:49 am, a group of male individuals was seen walking east toward the Little League Statue located at the corner of Third St and Market St. As they approached, one of the males dressed in a blue cap, long-sleeved blue shirt, and blue shorts forcefully kicked at and pulled the bat from the statue before placing it onto the ground. Later, at 2:00 am a male and female walking south toward the bridge observed the broken bat on the ground. The female retrieved the bat and, after taking photos with it, left the area heading south with the broken bat from the statue.   The Williamsport Bureau of Police is requesting assistance in identifying both the male individual who damaged the statue and the female who left the area with the broken bat from the statue. If you have any information concerning the identity of these individuals please contact PO Andrew Stevens at the Williamsport Bureau of Police. The images are available on Facebook at WILQ  WBZD  WZXR

WINTER DRIVING IN PA IS BECOMING EASIER

Winter driving is coming. Here in north central pa, we cannot avoid it. But there are ways to help deal with it. The public can access travel information on nearly 40,000 state-maintained roadway miles year-round at www.511PA.com, and during the winter they can find plow-truck locations and details of when state-maintained roadways were last plowed. The information is made possible by PennDOT’s Automated Vehicle Location (AVL) technology, which uses units in each of the over 2,500 department-owned and rented plow trucks to send a cellular signal showing where a truck is located. To help the public prepare for the season and share information about winter services, PennDOT offers operational information and traveler resources at www.penndot.gov/winter.  Motorists can check conditions on more than 40,000 roadway miles, including color-coded winter conditions on 2,900 miles, 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. 511PA is also available through a free smartphone application for iPhone and Android devices, by calling 5-1-1, or by following regional twitter alerts accessible on the 511PA website.

POLICE ARE ASKING HELP TO IDENTIFY A SUSPICIOUS MAN

Psp Milton responded and investigated a reported suspicious person/vehicle that occurred in the area of Tower Dr/Bloom Rd, Cooper Twp Montour County on Oct 26 at approximately 4 pm. It was reported a juvenile was approached a short time after exiting a school bus by an unidentified white male who was operating silver small compact sedan and was repeatedly asked about needing a ride home.  The unidentified male can be described as being approx. mid to late 50s in age, heavy set, bald head, ginger/gray speckle mustache, facial/neck discoloration/scaring and wore thick framed square glasses. The juvenile involved was not harmed during this incident.  Anyone with information on similar incidents or have any information to supply with helping identify the suspicious person involved in this encounter is urged to contact PSP Milton.

LOYALSOCK TOWNSHIP SUPERVISORS UPCOMING BUDGET

Although they were told the proposed 2022 budget looked good, Loyalsock Township supervisors have not disclosed details as of yet. According to Loyalsock Township Manager Bill Burdett, a public work session is on hand to review the fund balance with the finance committee. With no proposed tax increase, real estate taxes are estimated to remain the same at 0.5 mills.

LOYALSOCK TOWNSHIP PUBLIC HEARING FOR PARKING

In Loyalsock Township, the supervisors plan on a public hearing regarding no parking for portion of Miller Avenue between Sheridan Street and the Community Park Nov. 9 at 7:15 pm. According to SUN Gazette, the bicycle path has been used during Little League games for parking.

LOYALSOCK TOWNSHIP PUBLIC HEARING SNOW PARKING

In Loyalsock Township, it is a public hearing for a proposed ordinance detailing no parking during snow events Nov. 23,  7 pm. As reported by the SUN Gazette, the ordinance for this first year, is much like an experiment for more congested zones. According to Township Solicitor Mike Wiley, the penalty structure is currently under review.

BACKYARD BROADCASTING, LOCAL NEWS OCTOBER 28, 2021

JAMES V. BROWN LIBRARY RECEIVES AN AWARD

For overcoming a significant and public censorship challenge earlier this year, The James V. Brown Library, standing strong through a year of censorship and other challenges, has been recognized by the Pennsylvania Library Association as the Library of the Year. Each year, a library is chosen because they have excelled in leadership and service to the public. According to SUN Gazette, the library is having an open house Friday, Nov. 12th from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., in the children’s area with light refreshments.

VISITOR’S AGGRESSIVE COMMENTS END MEETING

The East Lycoming School Board abruptly closed their recent public meeting, choosing to move to executive session allegedly following public comments.  Audience members have been permitted to speak at meetings, pending their agreement to rules and policy set for the meeting by the school board. In such, visitors are permitted three minutes to address the board. According to SUN Gazette, during the three minutes, all comments for board consideration are expected to be non-vulgar and directed to current policy issues. When the comments became pointed and confrontational toward board members, enough was enough. According to Donna Gavitt board member,  “I call for an adjournment of this meeting.” When asked why, Gavitt answered, “Shouting out of line.”

CHARGES BOUND OVER FOR COURT

The alleged inappropriate comments made to 16-year-old girls over Snapchat and in the classroom resulting in subsequent charges including; unlawful contact with a minor, endangering the welfare of children and corruption of minors, have passed all requirements and are bound over to court. A Williamsport Area High School geometry teacher, Christopher Yoder, appeared before District Judge Aaron Biichle in a preliminary hearing. Yoder’s bail remains $85,000.

FIVE-YEAR AGREEMENT FOR AREA SCHOOL DISTRICT

A five-year agreement, which covers teachers and the other school professional employees, was approved by the Montoursville Area School Board. According to SUN Gazette, on average, the professional employees, per the contract, will be increased to 2.31 % for the 2022-2023 school years.  The contract covers school nurses and counselors. However, it excludes management level personnel and supervisors.

COVID-19 LOCAL NUMBERS

The Pennsylvania Department of Health on Wednesday reported new COVID-19 cases statewide. In Clinton County 28 new cases were reported, County saw an increase of 47, while Lycoming County increased by 75,  68 new cases in Northumberland County, 29 in Union, 23 in Snyder and seven in Montour.

IN-PERSON COMMENCEMENT FOR AREA UNIVERSITY

In person commencement for Fall 2021 will be held Friday, and Saturday Dec. 10 and 11 for Bloomsburg University in Haas Center for the Arts, Mitrani Hall. The School of Graduate Studies and the Zeigler College of Business will hold commencement ceremonies on Friday, Dec. 10, at 6 p.m. And the College of Education and the College of Science and Technology will graduate on Saturday, Dec. 11, at 10 a.m. Finally, the College of Liberal Arts ceremony Saturday, Dec. 11th at 2 pm. Masks are required of all inside Haas Center for the Arts regardless of vaccination status.

PRESIDENTIAL HONORS IN SNYDER COUNTY

It is an honor like no other.   The Hill View Christmas Tree Farm, located just outside of Middleburg in Snyder County, has been awarded the honor of having one of their trees as the National Christmas Tree in Washington D.C. this year. The tree, according to owner Darrell Bowersox, will be taken to Washington with an escort on Friday morning.  The National Christmas Tree is lit annually to mark the officially start of the Christmas season for the nation’s capital. According to a media outlet, The tree will be planted between the White House and the Washington Monument.

ARREST MADE FOLLOWING TRAFFIC VIOLATIONS

On Wednesday, October 27th, 2021 at 1348 hours, Watsontown Police conducted a traffic stop on Jason M. Enterline, 36 of Milton, for a vehicle code violation occurring in the 200 block of Main St. A subsequent investigation found Enterline, a convicted felon prohibited from possessing firearms, was in possession of and concealed a loaded firearm on his person. The firearm was without identifying serial numbers. Additionally, narcotics and drug paraphernalia were also recovered from the vehicle. Enterline was charged with Felony counts of A Person Not to Possess a Firearm, Possession of a Firearm with altered serial number, Firearms not to be carried without a license, Misdemeanor counts of Possession of a Controlled Substance, Drug Paraphernalia and summary vehicle code violations. Enterline was transported to Northumberland County Jail where he is awaiting arraignment.

SENATE BILL 420 FOR DISTRICT ATTORNEY OFFICE QUALIFICATIONS

As legislators continue conversations about criminal justice reform, a state Senate bill, sponsored by Sen. Gene Yaw (R-23), Vice Chairman of the Senate Judiciary Committee, would clarify the statutory requirements for individuals who hold the office of District Attorney in Pennsylvania. Senator Yaw’s bill, Senate Bill 420, 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. “Currently, there is no requirement that a person elected to the office of District Attorney possess an active license to practice law at the time of entering office, which SB 420 will require,” Sen. Yaw said.  “My bill would also establish safeguards so that the office of District Attorney would continue to operate uninterrupted in the event of a suspension of the law license or disbarment from the practice of law of a sitting District Attorney.   Senate Bill 420 would cover situations when a District Attorney’s law license is suspended, or they are disbarred.

HAVEN CUPBOARD EVENT

Lock Haven University students involved with a service project for their small group communications class will host a trunk or treat and canned food drive combined event from noon to 2 p.m. on Sunday, Oct. 31 at the Lock Haven Moose Lodge 100, 150 S. Hanna St. The event is open to the public and attendees are encouraged to come in costume to receive treats and also to bring a canned or non-perishable food item to benefit the Haven Cupboard food pantry, which provides food and other items to LHU students in need.

FREED FROM SHORTENED JAIL TERM

A convicted drug dealer, originally sentenced 14 to 29 years in state prison by a 2013 jury, who found him guilty on 21 counts of possession with intent to deliver a controlled substance, has been released from his set jail term.  Neil Neidig of Sunbury, appeared in front of Judge Paige Rosini, a judge from Northumberland County, yesterday, will be on probation for upwards of 19 years.  As reported by the Daily Item, he has been a resident of state prison since 2011.

COURTHOUSE NEW AND IMPROVED IN NORTHUMBERLAND COUNTY

According to Northumberland County Planning Coordinator  Justin Skavery, the newly designed courtroom at the Northumberland County Courthouse is complete.  The second floor courtroom space is 626 square feet and provides office space of 235 square feet,  has been operational for approximately two weeks and used primarily by Senior Judge Harold Woelfel Jr. According to the Daily Item, the courtroom is part of the Northumberland County Courthouse Rehabilitation project with a total pricetag of $4.3 million.

50,000TH COVID-19 VACCINE IN NORTH CENTRAL UPMC REGION

They are celebrating the big 50. The big 50,000 that is… UPMC  north central is sharing the news of the 50,000th administration of the COVID-19 vaccine here at home in the north central UPMC region. A breakfast was prepared for UPMC COVID-19 clinical staff and they were presented with special vaccine challenge coins. UPMC,  recognizing them for their service to the community, echoed the pride of the region. According to Heather Stafford, clinical director of Infection Prevention and Control, UPMC North Central Pa,  “Reaching this vaccination milestone is definitely a reason to celebrate, both as a system and as a community.”

BACKYARD BROADCASTING, LOCAL NEWS OCTOBER 27, 2021

LYCOMING COUNTY COMMISSIONERS LEND A HAND TO A BOROUGH IN NEED

They attempted to complete the project without asking for additional help. However, the borough of Lairdsville asked the Lycoming County Commissioners for assistance with their new mandated sewage project. Following their $1.1 million stortfalls, which included COVID and the increasing price of steel, the assistance will go a long way. With the assistance of a $500,000 grant and upwards of $700,000 in loans (repayable  over 15 years at 0% interest), the borough of Lairdsville was successful in finding ways to reach the goals of a state mandated sewage system without placing additional burdens on their taxpayers. The vote was yes from the Commissioners was unanimous to help with the project.

FEDERAL LAWSUIT IN U.S. MIDDLE DISTRICT COURT

A federal lawsuit in U.S. Middle District Court alleges, a Lycoming County woman suffered racial slurs by a co-worker. As a woman of Asian descent, Ruth Charles, a former clerk in the office of District Attorney Ryan Gardner, had filed for a civil action suit, even naming Gardner and Lycoming County.  Charles claims she suffered from acts of discrimination, an unsafe workplace due to retaliation issues and more. According to SUN Gazette, Charles has requested Chief Middle District Judge Matthew W. Brann to oversee proceedings in front of a jury.

FIRE SCARE FOR LOCAL MAN

A smoldering fire in his bathroom set off a smoke alarm around 12:15 am, yesterday.  As reported by SUN Gazette, Myron Cowher called 911 and fire crews arrived at 2818 Route 14 to find a light smoke condition. Fire crews from Ralston, Hepburn and Old Lycoming Townships reported the fire under control within 15 minutes.

UPDATED COVID-19 NUMBERS FOR OUR AREA

The Pennsylvania Department of Health on Tuesday reported new COVID-19 cases statewide. In Clinton County 14 new cases were reported, Centre County saw an increase of 32, while Lycoming County increased by 56. Tioga County had 10 new cases, 27 in both Northumberland and Union counties, 15 in Snyder and six in Montour.

CONTRACT AWARDED DANVILLE AREA SCHOOL DISTRICT

A contract agreement was reached last night in the Danville Area School District. KCBA Architects, of Center Valley, was awarded the contract upwards of $4.7 million in renovations for Liberty Valley Intermediate School and Danville Primary School. According to the Danville Area School District Business Manager, Bobbi Ely, the school board, in September, had approved an $8.8 million bond. The work inside Liberty Valley will include heating, ventilation and air conditioning upgrades and improvements. According to the Daily Item, the sidewalks were also an issue, as well as the roof and moisture complaints with the flooring.

MEN PICKED UP BY FBI ON ORDER BY FEDERAL JUDGE

Three men were taken into custody by FBI agents last week, on the orders of a Federal Judge, based on charges of attempting to entice a minor into committing acts of sexual activity and prostitution. According to PennLive and online court documents, Erick D. Metzger, Frank A. Nork and Patrick Taylor are accused engaging in the crime in Union County on either Oct. 21 or Oct. 23. Magistrate Judge William Arbuckle ordered their detention with little to no further details available at this time.

SUNBURY WOMAN MISSING,, POLICE ARE ASKING FOR HELP

State police are actively investigating a Sunbury woman who has been missing since April 2020. Angel Donahue of South 4th Street, has been missing by relatives. State police are assisting in the investigation who said Donahue’s social media and bank accounts remain inactive since April 2020. According to a warrant, Donahue isn’t listed as being in an local hospitals. Troopers said Donahue is missing under suspicious circumstances, as reported by the Daily Item.

STATE PRISON FOR SUNBURY MAN

Drug and gun charges from an incident in Snyder County land a Sunbury man in state prison. Snyder County District Attorney announced yesterday  Maurice Doster was sentenced four to 10 years in state prison  and later convicted on drug charges and unlawful possession of a firearm by a former felon. According to an online news source, Doster is required to serve a minimum of four years before he is eligible for parole.

ATTEMPTED BREAK-INS IN MONTOURSVILLE

A man from South Williamsport attempted to break into a school and a local floral business. According to northcentralpa.com, Michael Campbell attempted entrance in the Montoursville Area High School by pounding on the front doors. When he was unsuccessful, he jumped a fence and did enter the complex via the football field. According to reports, he then allegedly attempted to get into Nevil’s Flowers at 748 Broad Street. He was apprehended without gaining entry and faces multiple misdemeanors. Originally arraigned in front of District Justice Aaron Biichle, Campbell posted $10,000 bail with a preliminary hearing set for Nov. 10 in front of District Justice Gary A. Whiteman.

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