BACKYARD BROADCASTING, LOCAL NEWS OCTOBER 7, 2021
POSSIBLE HUMAN CHILD REMAINS IN HEPBURN TOWNSHIP
Human remains of what appears to be a small child were recovered from a property on Livermore Road in Hepburn Township. The incident began on Thursday, when Marie Sue Snyder was taken into custody by the United States Marshals Service-Lycoming County Sheriff’s Office Fugitive Task Force, on an Old Lycoming Township Police arrest warrant, charging Snyder with endangering the welfare of children and obstruction. Police were informed of the possible remains on the property. Yesterday, human remains were recovered and will be sent to a pathologist for further analysis. Investigators continue to search for a second child with additional information to be provided as it becomes available.
FEDERAL APPEALS COURT HALTED PRESIDENT’S VACCINE REQUIREMENT FOR LARGE BUSINESSES
A federal appeals court on Saturday temporarily halted the Biden administration’s vaccine requirement for businesses with 100 or more workers. The 5th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals granted an emergency stay of the requirement by the federal Occupational Safety and Health Administration that those workers be vaccinated by Jan. 4 or face mask requirements and weekly tests. Louisiana Attorney General Jeff Landry said the action stops President Joe Biden “from moving forward with his unlawful overreach.”
COVID-19 NUMBERS LOCALLY
The Pennsylvania Department of Health on Saturday reported new COVID-19 cases. In Clinton County 46 new cases were reported Centre County saw an increase of 33 new cases while Lycoming County increased by 66 and Tioga county 20, 50 in Northumberland County and 19 in Montour.
HOUSE BILL PROPOSED WILL PROHIBT INDIVIDUALS FROM REFUSING WORK
With employers across the state struggling to fill vacancies, the House has passed legislation that would update unemployment laws to clarify that people collecting unemployment can’t take steps to avoid being hired. Specifically, House Bill 1819 would prohibit actions to discourage their own hire, such as failure or refusal to attend a job interview or other applicant selection activity without good cause; refusing a job prior to an interview or a discussion of the details of a job with the employer without good cause; or failing to make a good faith effort to obtain employment, as evidenced by any statement or other actions of the claimant intended to discourage the claimant’s hire. The bill now goes to the Senate.
DRUGS STOLEN FROM LOCAL HOSPITAL
A former nurse allegedly stole narcotics when she was working at a Union County hospital. In fact, an arrest warrant has been issued for Alexander R. Neiman of Renovo, citing thefts of narcotics on upwards of 63 separate occasions while employed at Evangelical Community Hospital, according to court documents. As reported, video footage of Neiman going to the bathroom after he would withdraw medications. In addition, Neiman pulled more than the prescribed amount for patients, while only administering the partial doses. A felony and misdemeanors were filed with the office of District Judge Jeffrey A. Rowe, according to northcentralpa.com.
BACKYARD BROADCASTING, LOCAL NEWS OCTOBER 6, 2021
GEISINGER EMPLOYEES ARE 100% COMPLIANT
Geisinger announced that 100 percent of its staff have chosen to protect their communities, patients, and each other by meeting its COVID-19 vaccine policy that was announced in late August. Guided by the core values of safety and high-quality care, Geisinger required that all employees receive the COVID-19 vaccine or an approved exemption by Nov. 1. Geisinger’s policy aligns with federal policies released this week requiring COVID-19 vaccinations for health care workers at Medicare and Medicaid participating hospitals and other health care settings as well as employers with more than 100 employees.
LYCOMING COUNTY’S VETERAN’S PARADE IS TODAY
The annual Lycoming County Veterans Parade highlights honors the men and women who have served in the military. The parade is set for today in Loyalsock Township. A ceremony at 2 p.m. will kick off the event in front of Loyalsock High School. The parade will begin immediately following the ceremony at Northway Road proceeding to Sheridan Street and ending at Faxon Bowling Lanes on River Avenue. The reviewing stand will be at St. Ann’s Catholic Church.
COVID-19 LOCAL NUMBERS FROM FRIDAY
The Pennsylvania Department of Health on Friday reported new COVID-19 cases. In Clinton County 60 new cases were reported Centre County saw an increase of 45 new cases, while Lycoming County increased by 93 Tioga County 35 new cases Northumberland County, with 67 new cases. Union had 28 new cases and Snyder had 21. Montour County had five new cases.
PRESCRIPTION DRUG ASSISTANCE FOR OUR SENIOR CITIZENS
The House has approved legislation to expand availability of prescription drug assistance to more of the state’s senior citizens. House Bill 1260 would expand the PACENET program, which provides life-sustaining medications to more than 300,000 older Pennsylvanians, by raising income eligibility limits to $33,500 for single individuals and $41,500 for married couples. The current PACENET eligibility requirement is $27,500 for single individuals and $35,500 for married couples. The bill also would eliminate the requirement for PACENET cardholders not enrolled in Medicare Part D to pay a monthly benchmark premium. Instead, the bill would require the program pay this monthly premium. The bill now goes to the Senate.
UNEMPLOYMENT LAWS TO PROHIBIT REFUSAL TO WORK
With employers across the state struggling to fill vacancies, the House has passed legislation that would update unemployment laws to clarify that people collecting unemployment can’t take steps to avoid being hired. Specifically, House Bill 1819 would prohibit actions to discourage their own hire, such as failure or refusal to attend a job interview or other applicant selection activity without good cause; refusing a job prior to an interview or a discussion of the details of a job with the employer without good cause; or failing to make a good faith effort to obtain employment, as evidenced by any statement or other actions of the claimant intended to discourage the claimant’s hire.
The legislation would also require the Department of Labor and Industry to create forms, or update existing forms, to enable employers to report claimants who discourage their own hire in order to receive unemployment benefits. The bill now goes to the Senate.
Governor Tom Wolf today signed into law House Bill 425. House Bill 425 extends flexibility for certain licensees, including restaurants by allowing them to extend the area in which they are licensed to serve alcohol to include a seating area within 1,000 feet of their main location, gives the PLCB the ability to issue eligible licensees unlimited off-premise catering permits and an additional year of safekeeping, and allows a licensee that closes permanently to sell their liquor and wine to another licensee.
LOCAL CHIEF URGES COMMUNITY TO CHANGE BATTERIES IN CO DETECTORS AND OTHER SAFETY MEASURES THIS WEEKEND
At 9:45am, emergency crews from Old Lycoming Township responded to the 1800 block of Marshall Ave. in the township for a report of Carbon Monoxide in the residence. Donning Self Contained Breathing Apparatus, crews entered basement and found extremely high levels and a vent pipe from a gas furnace that was detached pumping CO into the residence. The furnace was shut down, a heating contractor called and an extended period of ventilation was needed to make the home safe. Crews cleared the scene at 10:59am. The lessons from this incident are very clear. First CO detectors are life savers and are essential in any home. Second we are coming up to “change the clocks back, change the detector batteries” weekend and that includes the CO detector. Third make sure you have your heating systems checked at the start of the heating season.
BACKYARD BROADCASTING,LOCAL NEWS OCTOBER 5, 2021
BROADBAND INTERNET AIMED AT HELPING FIRST RESPONDERS
It is more reliable communications and it is going to enable first responders to connect and communicate, it’s a broadband internet expansion in Tioga County and AT&T customers will see some benefits as well. An organization that prioritizes first responders’ ability to communicate and expanding broadband networking has a new site in Middlebury Center set to amplify coverage between Tioga and Wellsboro near the Route 287 corridor. The new tower, located near the Middlebury Fire Department’s fire hall, gives first responders such as police and firefighters “priority and preemption” to regular customers. Other sites have cropped up in Lycoming County to the same effect; the Loyalsock Volunteer Fire Co. enjoys increased access when responding to incidents in Barbours, according to AT&T’s website.
RURAL HEALTH LEADER OF THE YEAR AWARD
She was recognized for leading measures to fight COVID-19. She is the President and CEO of the Evangelical Community Hospital and Kendra Aucker was honored during a ceremony yesterday, where she was provided the Rural Health Leader of the Year Award. Aucker accepted the award from the Pennsylvania Office of Rural Health. In true Kendra Aucker fashion, she commented the award is everyone’s award and it is just how their strong, independent health care facility can respond and handle an emergency like the pandemic. Kendra Aucker, president and CEO of Evangelical Community Hospital, accepted the Rural Health Leader of the Year Award during a ceremony Thursday.
PA’S FIRST LADY IN TROUBLE WITH AN ELECTION LAW
She violated the Pennsylvania election law, and according to Spotlight PA and the Inquirer, First Lady Frances Wolf, simply dropped a mail ballot off for her husband, Governor Tom Wolf. Commonwealth law says, with very few exceptions, voters have to mail or bring their ballot to an elections office, satellite location, or drop box themselves. As it stands, it is an act which is punishable by upwards of a year in prison and a fine of up to $1,000 or both.
PREPAY DISCOUNT
Good news for those in the area of pay a fixed base rate to the Lycoming County Water and Sewer Authority. According to Sun Gazette, customers will see a prepay discount of 5% on the upcoming 2022 bills. The option, however, is limited to those in good standing and those who will be making a full payment in January for the year. Those areas that may see that discount rate include the Montoursville Regional Sewer System, Armstrong, Mifflin Manor and the Beaver Lake sewer systems. With this in mind, the authority is expecting to see a rate increase of $5 for the Armstrong Sewer and the Montoursville Regional Sewer systems. Those with the Limestone Water System can expect a 6.5% increase to stretch across all tiers.
WILLIAMSPORT CITY RECREATION DEPT HAD ROUGH FINANCIAL YEAR
The City of Williamsport Recreation Department Superintendent, Kayla Drummond, described this past year as a “bounce back” year, but they remained behind when finances were discussed, especially when the summer programs became the topic during the Williamsport City Council Finance Committee Meeting this week. With the concerns from the summer, which included an over budget staffing situation, transportation to Loyalsock pool and even issues with the food trucks, the money loss was obvious in the books, but the reasoning remained confusing. Finance Committee Chairwoman, Councilwoman, Liz Miele questioned the issue. Bonnie Katz, Councilwoman, stressed the need for the issues to be repaired before the pool reopens and staffing potentially can be a problem again.
PA WILDS AWARDS
During the Clinton County Commissioners’ meeting Thursday, recipients of the 2021 Champions of the PA Wilds Awards were distributed including three Clinton County events or individuals, according to therecordonline.com. Outstanding Leader award went to Julie Brennan, Clinton County Tourism Director; the Artisan of the Year went to photographer Bill Crowell and finally it was the Lock Haven JAMS Festival that won the Event of the Year.
COVID-19 IN OUR AREA FROM YESTERDAY
The Pennsylvania Department of Health on Thursday reported new COVID-19 cases, in Clinton County 19 new cases were reported, Centre County saw an increase of 33 new cases, while Lycoming County increased by 57, Tioga 22, 47 new cases in Northumberland County, 20 in Snyder, 15 in Union and eight in Montour.
TITLE 7 AND 9 PROBLEMS FOR PENN STATE UNIVERSITY
According to a former Penn State University employee, she alleges that a supervisor sexual assaulted her in December 2019. Following her reporting the incident, she was harassed. According to northcentralpa.com, Penn State University faces three violations of title 7 policies. These policies include, but are not limited to, sexual harassment and a hostile work environment. Further charges include Title 9 violations. Penn State was charged with three violations of Title VII policies including sexual harassment/hostile work environment, constructive discharge, and retaliation, according to the complaint. Other charges include two violations of Title 9. She is asking for back pay and compensation among other things. Judge Matthew W. Brann at the federal courthouse in Williamsport is presiding over the case.
PENNDOT CLOSED ON THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 11
The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) today announced that all driver license and photo centers, will be closed Thursday, November 11, in observance of Veterans Day. Customers may still obtain a variety of driver and vehicle products and services, including all forms, publications and driver training manuals, online through PennDOT’s Driver and Vehicle Services website. Driver and vehicle online services are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
GOV TOM WOLF TRAVELS THE COMMONWEALTH
Gov. Tom Wolf continues to fight for workers to have fair wages, paid sick leave, safe workplaces and quality jobs. Yesterday, the governor is visiting Erie and Allentown to discuss his recently issued executive order that supports workers and to urge the General Assembly to pass legislation that will give workers confidence in the safety of their workplaces and the fairness of their pay.
UPMC OFFERING VACCINATIONS FOR COVID-19 TO CHILDREN 5-11 YEARS OF AGE
UPMC is now offering COVID-19 vaccinations to children ages 5 and older at community vaccination clinics as well as in primary care and pediatric provider offices. Vaccinations are available by appointment only. UPMC’s next community vaccination clinic scheduled for Tues., Nov. 9, at Hope Enterprises, 2401 Reach Rd, Williamsport. Appointments for children are available and start at 5 p.m. Parents can schedule an appointment by calling their primary care or pediatric provider office, visiting Vaccine.UPMC.com, or calling 844-UPMCVAC (844-876-2822) between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m., seven days a week.
DCNR ATTEMPTING TO REDUCE GARBAGE WASTE FROM PA STATE PARKS
Secretary Cindy Adams Dunn today announced that the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR) is taking steps to reduce the use of plastics and amount of waste generated from food concessions at Pennsylvania state parks. As contracts with food providers are renewed, new provisions prevent the use of plastic bags, straws, and cutlery. These items are to be replaced with compostable, paper, wooden or plant fiber alternatives. “As the state’s conservation leader, DCNR strives to model practices that conserve and sustain our natural resources, and we are now extending that to the concessions that provide snacks at our state parks,” Dunn said. “This step will help to reduce the emissions generated through plastic production and eliminate the amount of plastic that ends up in landfills.
GOV TOM WOLF PROMOTING PA HARDWOOD PROJECTS
Agriculture Secretary Russell Redding, Department of Conservation and Natural Resource Assistant State Forester Matthew Keefer and Pennsylvania hardwoods industry leaders toured Conestoga Wood Specialties in East Earl, for a behind the scenes look at one of Pennsylvania’s premier hardwood products companies. Since 2015, Governor Tom Wolf has invested more than $1 million in grants, loans and tax credits to help Pennsylvania hardwood businesses expand, upgrade equipment, train their workers and increase sustainable environmental practices. Pennsylvania leads the nation in the production and export of hardwood lumber. With 16.6 million acres of forestland, Pennsylvania has the most abundant hardwood forest in the United States and contributes more than $39.1 billion to the state’s economy annually. The Pennsylvania Specialty Crop Block Grant program was created under the PA Farm Bill to grow and promote high-priority specialty crops in the state, including hardwoods. The PA Specialty Crop Block Grants has invested more than $160,000 in seven projects, over the course of 2019 and 2020, to support hardwoods projects related to promotion, education and workforce development.
.PURSUIT THAT BEGAN FROM A BURGLARY CALL
On October 30 around 1:00 am, State Police in Montoursville were dispatched to the 1600 block of Log Run Rd in Loyalsock Township in response to a burglary call. The vehicle fled the scene prior to the arrival of troopers. Old Lycoming Township Police located a vehicle matching the description and found the vehicle to be stolen. A traffic stop was attempted and the suspect vehicle fled. State Police from Montoursville and Milton assisted, even deploying spike strips and PIT maneuvers to stop the pursuit. The vehicle was stopped and the operator was identified as Alan Seijas . Multiple charges with given to Seijas and he was remanded to the Lycoming County Prison.
BACKYARD BROADCASTING, LOCAL NEWS NOVEMBER 4, 2021
NEW COUNCILMAN FOR WILLIAMSPORT
Eric Beiter, a Republican, has just been officially invited to the Williamsport City Council. He was congratulated by Slaughter and others on council when he was elected yesterday. With fresh ideas, Beiter has been interested in politics for the city. In fact, just over two years ago, he lost his battle for mayor to Derek Slaughter. Beiter received just under 2,000 votes, according Sun Gazette. With the election over, Beiter has commented that he is ready to get down to business. According to Beiter, “the citizens spoke at the polls. They stood up and said, ‘let’s hear these fresh ideas.’”
A LIFETIME OF WRESTLING
The Pennsylvania Chater of National Wrestling Hall of Fame has another member. Roger Crebs, a Lewisburg graduate and wrestling coach at Lycoming College, was inducted, honoring him for a lifetime service to wrestling. The ceremony, held in Hershey, had upwards of 400 attendees to see the eight inductees. Crebs, in an interview, credited his youth barn wrestling, as his start into a sport he loves. According to Sun Gazette, Crebs continues to use his love of the sport to coach others and pass on his gift.
MONDAY STARTED THE NEW VACCINE POLICY AT GMC
It appears the time has come. The new vaccine policy at Geisinger Medical Center took effect on Monday. The policy outlined their vaccination or face possible termination. According to a statement, released yesterday from Geisinger, stated they were following a strict HR process and attempting to contact the employees who haven’t updated files, indicating they are now vaccinated. Further updates are expected, as days pass since the first day of the new policy. According to a media outlet, in October, Geisinger President and CEO Dr. Jaewon Ryu said he estimated 95% of Geisinger’s work force has been fully vaccinated.
CHALLENGE TO THE PRESIDENT’S COVID MANDATE
U.S. Congressman Fred Keller is heading a challenge to the COVID mandate presented by President Joe Biden. According to Congressman Keller, he, Indiana Senator Mike Braun and other house and senate members are proposing legislation to officially disapprove and nullify the requirement of the vaccine on private employees, stressing that it invokes the Congressional Review Act, an official process for Congress to eliminate an executive branch rule. According to an online news outlet, President Biden is expected to issue an Emergency Temporary Standard (ETS) to officially mandating vaccination requirements for employees at private businesses with over 100 employees, thereby affecting more than 80 million Americans and impose $14,000 fines for those who refuse.
UNLAWFUL CONTACT WITH MINORS CHARGE FOR FORMER SCHOOL EMPLOYEE
He’s is sentenced to nine months to eight years in state prison. The former Selinsgrove Middle School assistant principal was charged with unlawful contact with four minors. Christopher S. Morrison’s sentencing was handed down by Judge Michael H. Sholley in Snyder County Court on Wednesday. Morrison did plead guilty earlier this year to four counts with girls aged 11, 13 and 14. As reported by an online media source, in August 2020, Morrison was employed by the Selinsgrove Area School District, as assistant school principal, when he was online posing as a middle school student, contacting young girls and asking them for nude photographs and lewd conversation.
COVID-19 NUMBERS FOR THE PAST THREE DAYS
The Pennsylvania Department of Health on Wednesday released the first statewide COVID-19 case numbers since Sunday. For the three days they show new cases, in Clinton County 46 new cases were reported for the three day period, Centre County saw an increase of 98 new cases over the three days, while Lycoming County increased by 153 over the three days, 103 new COVID cases in Northumberland County, 51 in Union, 40 in Snyder and 15 in Montour all tallied over the past three days.
CHILDREN AGES 5-11 APPROVED FOR VACCINE
Governor Tom Wolf and members of the Wolf Administration today applaud the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC) approval yesterday of the pediatric Pfizer vaccine for children ages 5 through 11 and confirms that vaccine providers are ready to administer shots as soon as possible. “The availability of the new pediatric vaccine is great news in the fight against COVID-19,” Gov. Wolf said. “This will provide comfort for parents, teachers, pediatricians and community members across the commonwealth – knowing that we have a safe and effective way to protect more of our children from COVID-19-related illness.” Pennsylvania vaccine providers, including pediatricians, primary care physicians, family doctors, pharmacies, large retailers, federally qualified health centers and grocery stores, will be able to schedule appointments and administer the vaccine as soon as possible according to CDC guidance. Many vaccine pre-orders have already been delivered with more expected in the coming days and weeks.
A SAFETY CONCERN IS THE CAUSE OF TODAY’S CLOSING OF THE MILLVILLE AREA SCHOOL DISTRICT
According to a post on the school’s website from Superintendent of Schools …
Dear Millville Families,
“Good Evening. Out of abundance of caution, the Millville Area School District will be closed Thursday: November 4, 2021 for ALL faculty, staff, and students due to a address a safety concern. This evening, the district received information regarding a threat. While the Millville Area School District does not want to interrupt instruction and the operation of schools, the district must ensure that any and all safety concerns have been satisfactorily addressed in order to maintain the highest degree of safety for our valued faculty, staff, and students.
Your cooperation in this matter is greatly APPRECIATED!
Stronger TOGETHER…Quaker STRONG!
BACKYARD BROADCASTING, LOCAL NEWS NOVEMBER 3, 2021
STATE SUPREME COURT RACES IN PENNSYLVANIA
Republicans in Pennsylvania saw success in voters’ choices Tuesday to fill open seats on statewide appeals courts, including winning a marquee race for a seat on the state Supreme Court that nevertheless will not change the Democrats’ majority on the state’s high court. Amid light turnout around the state, Republican Kevin Brobson beat Democrat Maria McLaughlin to serve a 10-year term on Pennsylvania’s highest court. Brobson, 50, a judge for more than a decade on the lower statewide Commonwealth Court, will replace the outgoing Republican Justice Thomas Saylor, who has hit the mandatory retirement age of 75.
17TH JUDICIAL DISTRICT WINNER
Lori R. Hackenberg won the race for Court of Common Pleas judge in the 17th Judicial District of Snyder and Union counties. Hackenberg is set to replace President Judge Michael T. Hudock as he is retiring at the end of his term. Hackenberg, hails from mt. pleasant mills, runs a private practice as well as serves as the district judge in Middleburg, a position she held since 2011 which is her second six year term and expires at the end of 2023.
GOVERNOR TOM WOLF, ENVIRONMENTAL JUSTICE AND AN EXECUTIVE ORDER
Governor Tom Wolf joined members of the Pennsylvania Legislative Black Caucus (PLBC) and local environmental advocates at the Discovery Center to announce executive and legislative actions that will ensure that all Pennsylvanians, especially disadvantaged communities, are included in conversations and decisions to protect our environment. Governor Wolf has issued an Executive Order strengthening the Wolf Administration’s efforts to address environmental justice and support low-income communities and communities of color that are adversely impacted by environmental issues with accompanying adverse health impacts.
CITY COUNCIL CHANGES FROM YESTERDAY
Williamsport City Council members Liz Miele and Randall Allison maintained their positions in the council following yesterday’s election. However, Dave Banks was replaced by Eric Beiter after only one-term. The polls were slow in the city of Williamsport, as just under 15,000 residents turned out to vote, which appears to be a trend across the country for this election.
WILLIAMSPORT POLICE ARE LOOKING FOR YOUR HELP
The Williamsport Bureau of Police is currently attempting to locate Bradley Racey, who was last seen leaving the Newberry Section of Williamsport on October 27, 2021, at approximately 1:50 AM. Anyone with information regarding Racey’s whereabouts is asked to contact the Williamsport Bureau of Police.
POLICE ASKING FOR PUBLIC ASSISTANCE IN WILLIAMSPORT SHOOTING
The woman who suffered a gunshot wound to the head, in her second-floor apt at Maple St and Memorial Avenue is still unable to provide detectives details on her shooting. In fact, according to SUN Gazette, doctors still are unable to clear her to speak with the police, as of yesterday. The condition of the woman, who was at least initially admitted into the intensive care unit within the UPMC Williamsport on Oct. 12, is unknown. With additional evidence from the scene, investigators continue to work the scene and are continuing to reach out to the community for assistance. As reported by SUN Gazette, if you have any information regarding this incident, please contact Agent Brittany Alexander at the Williamsport Bureau of Police.
SPEED LEADS TO DRUG CHARGES
It was a brief vehicle pursuit followed by a foot pursuit as a driver bailed from his vehicle at High and Hepburns streets on Tuesday morning around 1130 am. Hafiz Durbin of Philadelphia was arrested, but not before either dropped or disposed of 50 bags of suspected heroin, which were seized. According to Sun Gazette, following his arraignment before District Judge Aaron Biichle on multiple felony charges, Durbin was jailed in lieu of $95,000 bail.
UNCONTESTED RACES IN LYCOMING COUNTY
Uncontested races in the region include, but are not limited to the races for Magistrial District Judge, where Christian D. Fry, Denise Dieter and William Solomon maintained their positions. Also uncontested, Mark Lusk remains the Lycoming County Sheriff.
BRIDGES TO LEARNING PROGRAM
It is called Bridges to Learning Program and its use is approved by the South Williamsport Area School Board. According to District Superintendent Dr. Mark Stamm, the program is useful to both students who learn remotely and those who attend school in person. Basically, it bridges the learning. For example, it will allow Mountie Academy students to attend school in-person when needed. In reverse, the program will permit about 600 students in grades 7 to 12, will allow in-person students to participate in cyber/remote courses through the Academy, dual enrollment, and advanced academic programs The next school board meeting is set for 6 p.m. Monday, Nov. 15.
LYCOMING COUNTY MAYOR RACES
Mayoral races throughout the area included; Duboistown Richard Knecht, Hughesville Richard Smith, Jersey Shore Sally Ann Combs, Montgomery Edward Alexander, Montoursville Steve Bagwell and South Williamsport Mayor Marlin Angelo all with uncontested wins for their positions in their respective boroughs.
PENNSYLVANIA DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH RELEASED NEW COVID-19 CASES YESTERDAY
The Pennsylvania Department of Health has released new COVID-19 cases from yesterday. Lycoming County had 78 new cases, 17 new cases in Clinton, 60 new in Centre, 59 new in Northumberland, 33 new in Tioga and 34 new cases listed yesterday in Union County.
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
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!