INDECENT EXPOSURE AT BRANDON PARK

Williamsport Police discovered a man, with his pants down, engaged in a public display inside a dugout at Brandon Park, as they patrolled the area. Ronald Stephen Wisor, 58, was charged with indecent exposure and defiant trespass after officers found him inside the dugout despite repeated warnings to stay away. According to northcentralpa.com,  Wisor was previously warned to stay away from the area after it was discovered he defecated inside dugouts. With no bail recorded for Wisor, he is scheduled to appear before Judge Aaron Biichle  on Aug. 5.

COVID-19 POSITIVITY PERCENTAGES

According to the data from the state’s COVID-19 Early Warning Monitoring System dashboard, Clinton County this week has a percent positivity of 1.9%, compared to 8.2% a week ago. The percent positivity rates for Centre and Lycoming counties saw little change: Lycoming County this week has a percent positivity of 3. According to therecordonline.com, Clinton is among 37 counties in the “low” level of community transmission, while Centre and Lycoming counties are among 30 counties listed in the “moderate” level of transmission.

TAX INCREASE

The South Williamsport Area School District School Board, in a 5-2 vote, approved  a tax increase in the 2021-22 school year.  The .57 mil increase is actually less than the previous version of the budget, which proposed a .7 mil increase.  Sun Gazette also reported the board also approved the tax levy resolution, for the same term, which sets real estate taxes at 17.25 mills, the earned income tax at 1.1 percent and the realty transfer tax at .5 percent.

AMERJICAN RESCUE PLAN FUNDING

At last evening’s Lycoming County Commissioners meeting, the commissioners said they are preparing a plan to effectively utilize the county’s portion of the American Rescue Plan funding. The Williamsport/Lycoming Chamber of Commerce is assisting and has been task to help determine which projects should receive funds. Lycoming County is projected to receive upwards of $22 million over two years. Areas under consideration, according to a media outlet, include infrastructure upgrades and housing needs.

COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT BLOCK GRANT 

At last evening’s Lycoming County Commissioners meeting, the commissioners approved  the agreement with Montoursville Borough for the Community Development Block Grant funding regarding COVID-19. The funding, with a price tag of $56,163 will provide assistance for rent, mortgage and utilities for those who had been unable to maintain these monthly payments.  According to a media source, in other meeting news, Karen Mitchell was appointed to the assessment appeals board.

 VOTING RIGHTS PROTECTION ACT

The Pennsylvania House of Representatives passed the Pennsylvania Voting Rights Protection Act by a vote of 110 to 9  yesterday. The resulting bill, which passed the House yesterday, includes provisions providing for early in-person voting, the protection of voting rights for handicapped and older Pennsylvanians, and historic amounts of state funding for county election administration.According to House Majority Leader Kerry Benninghoff,  “Over the last two presidential election cycles, there have been voting integrity concerns leveled by both parties and failures in our election administration have continued into the 2021 primary election. It is heading for the senate.”

DUI ENFORCEMENT OVER JULY 4TH HOLIDAY

The Lycoming County DUI Task Force will be conducting aggressive DUI Enforcement during the 4th of July Holiday season. Our mission is to arrest drunk and impaired drivers. During the July 4th Holiday we will be conducting both stationary checkpoints and roving patrols to aggressively find those that don’t heed the advice “Designate a sober driver”. Police Officers from Old Lycoming, Tiadaghton Valley, Montoursville, Williamsport, South Williamsport, Lycoming County Sheriffs and the PA Fish and Boat Commission will be patrolling country roads, local neighborhoods, city streets and on and around waterways looking for people impaired on drugs and alcohol. DO NOT DRIVE IMPAIRED.

SPLASH COVE REPAIRS SET 

The city’s closed Memorial Park pool, shut down due to a leak of water and chemicals, but repairs are set to begin after July 4. Mayor Derek Slaughter told members of City Council’s finance committee yesterday that the plan is to begin to excavate in an attempt to find a leak at Splash Cove. Mayor Slaughter said the intent by the administration is to see a permanent repair of the pool, which was first constructed in 1965. According to SUN Gazette,the next council meeting at 7 p.m. Thursday at Trade and Transit Centre II. It can als  be viewed remotely on YouTube.

BAIL DENIED

Bail denied for two charged with assault It was the ongoing issues including threats, damaged property, assault and shots fired between  Lena Ann Jenkins and boyfriend Kyle Lee Crain, both of whom were arrested Monday night,  according to SUN Gazette..Shots fired brought officers to  1500 High St. about 6:30 p.m. to investigate.  Jenkins, 33, admitted to police that she fired a rifle multiple times according to an affidavit. Crain, 32, had left the house and returned with a rifle. Several minors were inside the home at the time. Jenkins and Crain have been charged with multiple charges. Both were arraigned before District Judge Jon E. Kemp and automatically placed in the Lycoming County Prison on no bail

 

BACKYARD BROADCASTING JUNE 22, 2021

PROJECT LIFESAVER

Local authorities have been working with the Hope Foundation for upwards of 15 years on Project Lifesaver, a system that provides life-sustaining protection to families and caregivers of those with special needs. The nonprofit operation supplies bracelets with small transmitters attached to them intended to find those with disabilities who have a tendency to wander. Each year in Lycoming County, the tracking system is said to find people who have wandered from home. Altogether, the international organization has rescued 3,786 lives and counting. According to the SUN Gazette, the Hope Foundation continues to raise funds so that the service can remain free to families in need.

KELLER REQUESTING US CAPITOL TO BE OPEN TO PUBLIC

US Rep Fred Keller, whose 12th Congressional District includes Lycoming County, recently signed a letter sent to House Speaker Nancy Pelosi urging the U.S. Capitol to no longer be shut off to the public. “The United States Capitol has been closed to the public for over a year, despite plummeting COVID-19 case rates and increased vaccine availability. As Speaker, Nancy Pelosi has a duty to reopen the House and respect the constitutional rights of American citizens to participate actively in our democracy.”

LOCK HAVEN CITY’S FEDERAL FUNDING FROM AMERICAN RESCUE PLAN ACT OF 2021

Lock Haven city council, last night, held a meeting to effectively budget upwards of $950-thousand in federal funding from the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021. In total, the Commonwealth received $6.15 billion. According to a letter to the city from Gov. Tom Wolf, there are a number of permissible uses for the dollars, approved by the federal government in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. According to therecordonline.com, these include public health expenditures, replacement of lost public sector revenue, providing premium pay for essential workers and investments in water, sewer and broadband infrastructure. The city manager told council a budget will be presented to council during its July 12 meeting. He called the unanticipated money “a great opportunity for the city.” Wilson said a public hearing on plans for the money will be held prior to the July 12 meeting.

CHIRP FUNDS TO HELP STRUGGLING HOSPITALITY INDUSTRY

Eighty-three restaurants, bars and other businesses in Northumberland, Snyder, Montour and Union county are approved for $2.1 million in pandemic relief funds. Last week in a press conference,  the state Department of Community and Economic Development,  announced 19 businesses in Union County received $502,354 in COVID-19 Hospitality Industry Recovery Program (CHIRP) funds. There are pending CHIRP announcements expected for early July for 38 businesses in Northumberland County, 16 in Snyder County and 10 in Montour County, according to SEDA-COG Community Relations Director Kristen Moyer. The Daily Item reports CHIRP funding through the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development is allocating $145 million to hospitality industry businesses negatively impacted by the pandemic. In total, 311 businesses in 11 Valley counties received a total of $7.1 million in CHIRP funds, including $1,028,268 in Northumberland County, $457,268 in Snyder County and $206,480 in Montour County.

COURT RULED NCAA AND EDUCATION-RELATED BENEFITS FOR ATHLETES 

The Supreme Court ruled unanimously yesterday  the NCAA can’t limit education-related benefits — like computers and paid internships — that colleges can offer their sports stars, a victory for athletes that could help open the door to further easing in the decades-old fight over paying student-athletes. Schools recruiting top athletes could now offer tens of thousands of dollars in education-related benefits that also include study-abroad programs and graduate scholarships. A media outlet reported that under current NCAA rules, students cannot be paid, and the scholarship money a college can offer is capped at the cost of attending the school. As a result of yesterday’s ruling, the NCAA itself can’t bar schools from offering Division I basketball and football players additional education-related benefits. But individual athletic conferences can still set limits if they choose.

NAMES RELEASED BY LYCOMING COUNTY CORONER REGARDING SUNDAY’S MOTORCYCLE CRASH

The Lycoming County Coroners office along with Pennsylvania State Police  and Montoursville Fire Department personnel were called to the scene of a motorcycle crash on I-180 just east of Fairfield Road exit on Sunday. A  motorcycle traveling west struck a deer, and the two occupants were thrown from the motorcycle. The Lycoming County Coroners office determined that Ralph and Susan Strieby, of Williamport,  died on the scene from multiple blunt force trauma at 8:05 p.m..

NURSING EDUCATION SUPPORTED BY GEISINGER FOR EMPLOYEES

According to Geisinger, employees interested in a nursing career will be provided financial, educational, and wellness support to its employees. The program is open to any employee who has worked with Geisinger for a year or more and isn’t already a registered nurse or provider. While supporting employee career and professional goals, the program will also mitigate a shortage of nurses across the organization and beyond. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the nation needs 1.1 million new RNs by 2022 to avoid a nursing shortage.

DUI AND OTHER CHARGES FOR DUBOISTOWN WOMAN

A DuBoistown woman told city police she had driven because at home, she was hearing and seeing things and needed a Catholic priest to  bless her house. On  March 15, she got in her car and drove. Whitney Steele-Phillips, 35, of Euclid Ave., was found passed out in her car in the 300 block of Locust Street about 7:30 a.m. During a series of field sobriety tests, her actions led the officer to suspect she was under the influence of a depressant and stimulant. In the vehicle, police seized pills and drug paraphernalia, according to a media source. Steele-Phillips was charged with DUI and other charges. She is to appear before District Judge Christian Frey.

2021 PENNSYLVANIA STATE LAUREL QUEEN

The 2021 Pennsylvania State Laurel Queen was crowned on Saturday, June 19th, in the Coolidge Theatre at the Deane Center for the Performing Arts in Wellsboro. Jocelyn Renninger, a June graduate of Central Mountain High School in Mill Hall, was crowned and awarded a $1,500 educational scholarship. First runner-up Miss Williamsport Alayna Dake received a $750 scholarship and second runner-up Miss Saegertown Amber Costello, a $500 scholarship. According to northcentralpa.com, the Wellsboro Area Chamber of Commerce, through the Wellsboro Foundation, sends the scholarship funds directly to the college each young lady attends to help pay tuition.

2020 PROPERTY TAX / RENT REBATE PROGRAM

Eligible Pennsylvanians age 65 and older, widows and widowers age 50 and older, and people with disabilities age 18 and older now have until December 31, 2021 to apply for the state’s 2020 Property Tax and Rent Rebate program. Income limits for claimants are $35,000 per year for homeowners and $15,000 per year for renters. According to a media source, the Pennsylvania Department of Revenue will begin distributing rebates starting on July 1, 2021.

 

BACKYARD BROADCASTING JUNE 21, 2021

LYCOMING COUNTY 9/11 RIDE

It’s been a year since the roars of motorcycles announced the start of the Lycoming Co 9/11 memorial ride.  The state senate passed the bill that avoids the regulatory process put into community participation in the annual event, according to SUN Gazette. The Bill, according to tank Baird ride coordinator, removes the necessity for every municipality to sign off on the indemnification. State Rep Joe Hamm, Chief Sponsor of House Bill 765 reported that the bill has passed the house in May and now awaits the signature of Governor Tom Wolf.

GEISINGER MEDICAL CENTER ADDITION IN MUNCY TOWNSHIIP

The pandemic shut downs didn’t affect Geisinger’s construction of the Geisinger Medical Center Muncy in Muncy Township, right off of Route 220. This is the new three-story 120,000 square foot Geisinger Medical Center Muncy and Healthplex in partnership with Highmark Health, that may be operational in late 2021. The facility includes 20 hospital beds, a helipad, a full Emergency Department, inpatient care, cardiology, and even outpatient services, according to SUN Gazette.

GEISINGER MEDICAL CENTER ADDITION OF HELIPAD AT JERSEY SHORE HOSPITAL

The pandemic shut downs didn’t affect Geisinger’s construction of the Jersey Shore Hospital helipad which started in the early spring and is expected to be completed by late summer. A $250,000 grant from the First Community Foundation Partnership alongside other gifts and capital funding from Geisinger, was necessary in order to complete this project according to SUN Gazette. The helipad, above the Emergency Department entrance, making a much larger covering over the entrance, is bringing a positive benefit for EMS that need to enter the building. Although the hospital averages less than five air ambulance transports from Geisinger Jersey Shore in a month; the helipad will help patients in critical care and “eliminate the need for patients to be taken by ambulance”.

DOUBLE FATALITY IN MOTORCYCLE CRASH

A motorcycle crash last evening on Interstate 180 West in Fairfield Township claimed the life of two people, according to northcentralpa.com.  A male and female of Williamsport suffered fatal injuries and were pronounced dead at the scene shortly after the crash occurred at 7:25 p.m. at mile marker 20, close to the Fairfield exit, according to State Police at Montoursville. State Police reported the motorcycle struck a deer and they have not yet released the names of the deceased.

THREATS WITH A KNIFE SENDS WILLIAMSPORT MAN TO JAIL

A trash collector was threatened with a knife after he asked a man to pick up trash thrown off a third-floor balcony, according to Williamsport Police. Jerry Lee Nicholas, 44, Williamsport was charged with simple assault and terroristic threats after authorities said he held a knife to his throat and threatened to cut people. Witnesses told officers they observed Nicholas hold a knife to his own throat. Nicholas was taken into custody and held on $10,000 monetary bail. Court records show Nicholas is scheduled for a preliminary hearing on June 29.

WILLIAMSPORT CITY COUNCILMAN ANNOUNCES FORMAL ENDORSEMENT

Williamsport City Councilman Adam Yoder is announcing his formal endorsement of Lou Barletta for the Republican Nomination for Governor of Pennsylvania in the May 2022 primary. “For decades rural communities across the Commonwealth like Williamsport have faced the ever-growing challenge of providing core community services with a continuously eroding and economically distressed tax base,” Yoder said. “As a result of the economic challenges presented to rural Pennsylvania over the past year, these issues are exacerbated like we have never seen them before. Pennsylvania needs a Governor who will enable our municipal communities for growth.”

PRIME PROJECT GETTING SET FOR COMPLETION AT END OF JUNE

PRIME, also known as, Patient Room Improvement, Modernization and Enhancement is reaching its completion this month at Evangelical Community Hospital. The project, which originally broke ground for phase one in 2018, includes newly renovated private patient rooms. The second phase of the project, which broke ground on Oct. 22 of 2020, includes 12 additional spacious patient rooms in the new Critical Care Unit, according to a media outlet. The four year project completion marks another way that Evangelical Community Hospital has stayed true to its nature a local hospital providing high quality care.

KEEP PENNSYLVANIA BEAUTIFUL CAMPAIGN

The organizers of the state’s Keep Pennsylvania Beautiful campaign are looking for more volunteers to step forward and assist in litter clean-up. They are looking for individuals, civic organization or other groups of volunteers to consider adopting a stretch of roadway in your community.  Organizers are looking for a twice-monthly commitment can help to keep an adopted stretch of roadway clean with necessary supplies are provided. Visit penndot.gov for more information.

RETURN TO COUNCIL CHAMBERS FOR LOCK HAVEN CITY COUNCIL 

March 9 of 2020 was the last time when Lock Haven City Council held a meeting in council chambers on the first floor of City Hall on E. Church Street. With COVID-19 numbers on the decline, City Manager Greg Wilson has shared word that council will again be meeting in person in council chambers, effective with its Monday, June 21, 7 p.m. meeting. The city manager also announced that live streaming of the meetings will continue, citing an upsurge in online views, as opposed to the number of citizens who attended the council meetings prior to the pandemic. Wilson said over the last year the live streaming has drawn from 16 to 186 views; in-person meetings had consisted of anywhere from two to 12 in attendance.

STABBING THE DRIVER OF A MOVING AUTO LANDS MAN IN JAIL

A Williamsport man allegedly stabs coworker in the driver seat. Kevin Blunt, 35, allegedly stabbed a coworker in the abdomen during an argument, while in a moving vehicle on June 13, according to a media outlet. The victim jumped from the vehicle, as it traveled down Market Street, yelling that he has just been stabbed. Blunt fled the scene with the knife.  District Judge Beak Lee arraigned Blunt on multiple charges  and set bail to $175,000. Blunt remains in the Lycoming County Prison with a preliminary hearing on June 24.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

BACKYARD BROADCASTING JUNE 18, 2021

WREATHS ACROSS AMERICA

Armed with a mobile education exhibit used to promote their nationwide cause, The “Wreaths Across America” ambassador bus recently visited the Montoursville American Legion. According to SUN Gazette, Wreaths Across America is a nonprofit organization that seeks to place a wreath on the grave of every military veteran in the nation. The Lycoming County detachment currently places wreaths at cemeteries in Antes Fort, Pine Creek, Jersey Shore, Montoursville, the Fairview Cemetery in Montgomery, the Freedom Road Cemetery and the Williamsport Cemetery on Washington Boulevard with hopes of expanding into Muncy and Hughesville cemeteries.

LOYALSOCK TOWNSHIP SCHOOL DISTRICT SCHOOL BOARD TAX INCREASE

For the first time in three years, the Loyalsock Township School District School Board approved raising the real estate taxes next year upwards of a .43 mill increase in the rate.According to a media outlet,  the district worked to avoid the increase by renegotiating contracts, installing solar panels on buildings and, more recently, approving construction of a cellular tower on district property. The board also approved the Homestead/Farmstead Exclusion resolution, which will enable primary residents of qualifying properties to see a reduction of $130.75 in their property taxes. There are 3,020 homesteads and nine farmsteads in the district that qualify for the exclusion. The next board meeting will be at 7 p.m. July 14 at the Board Conference Room, 1605 Four Mile Drive.

MY VISION 9 FOUNDATION

A local nonprofit received a $75,000 grant from AllOne Foundation & Charities. The My Vision 9 Foundation, 400 Market St. in Williamsport, was presented with the check at a press conference yesterday afternoon.The My Vision 9 Foundation had initially set a goal to help 42 people when they were founded in 2018 but that number has increased dramatically, according to SUN Gazette. The vision is to improve access to healthcare, according to Executive Director John Crossgrove. My Vision 9 provides transportation, works with counseling services and provides individual coaching and other forms of support for a wide range of people.

JAMES V BROWN ANNUAL AUTHOR GALA

One fan of David Baldacci, will have the opportunity to name a character in an upcoming novel if they are lucky enough to win the bidding at the silent auction held in conjunction with the James V. Brown Library’s annual Author Gala.. Baldacci, an American author who writes suspense novels and legal thrillers,  is the featured author at the James V. Brown Library’s annual Author Gala. According to a media source, the Gala, the library’s main fundraiser, will be held on Oct. 6 this year. Plans are to hold the gala at the Community Arts Center.

KIDS UNITED/COCHRAN PLAYGROUND PROJECT 

It was an allocation for upwards of $45,000 for the Kids United/Cochran Playground Project that was recently approved by the Williamsport Area School Board.Construction of the playground, on the north side of the primary school, is expected to begin next week and it is designed to accommodate play for children of all abilities. In other news from the school board,  the class of 2022’s request to hold the 2022 Junior/Senior Prom at the Genetti Hotel in May 2022 was approved by the board. All costs will be paid by class funds. The next board meeting will be 6 p.m. July 6 at the District Service Center, 2780 W. Fourth St.

ADDITIONAL FELONIES FOR NY MAN

After being released on $150,000 monetary bail, a New York man, who already carries four counts of rape, now faces multiple additional felonies. Casey Lewis Guyer, 37, of Little Falls, N.Y. was charged with corruption of minors, sexual assault, involuntary deviate sexual intercourse, and statutory sexual assault less than two weeks after posting bail for his previous case. According to northcentralpa.com, Guyer was also charged with two counts each of misdemeanor indecent assault of a person less than 16 years of age and indecent exposure stemming from another incident.

WILLIAMSPORT MAN ALLEGEDLY FAILED TO COMPLETE CONSTRUCTION PROJECT

A Williamsport man was charged with three felonies after he failed to deliver on a promise to renovate a person’s kitchen, according to northcentralpa.com. Forest Spitzfaden, 27, of Williamsport was charged with multiple felonies. According to Montoursville PSP, Spitzfaden entered into an agreement to renovate a kitchen for a total of $61,400. Spitzfaden was given $30,700 in advance for the job. In Feb. with no work completed, the accuser sent Spitzfaden a certified letter asking for the money back. Troopers said Spitzfaden never returned the money and he was charged on June 7 then released the same day on $15,000 unsecured bail. Spitzfaden is scheduled to meet with Judge Gary A. Whiteman on July 12 for a preliminary hearing.

CONVICTION STANDS

Joseph J. Newman Jr., 50, of Mill Hall, will continue to serve upwards of 29 years in state prison, according therecordonline.com. This was his latest effort to overturn his conviction and win his release from the Department of Corrections. Newman was sentenced by Clinton County Judge Michael Salisbury, October 2017, when a  jury found him guilty of seven charges stemming from a shooting in August of 2016 in Mill Hall.

FIREWORKS EXTRAVAGANZA

The “26th Annual Set the Nite to Music Fireworks Extravaganza” with UPMC, the city of Williamsport and Backyard Broadcasting is happening, in downtown Williamsport, on Sunday July 4th. A petition filed with PennDOT that was required to close the Market Street Bridge was initially denied. However, the city petitioned for a waiver. The waiver was granted by Governor Wolf’s office. Williamsport Mayor Derek Slaughter added that approval from the state was received yesterday morning. Backyard Broadcasting’s 26th Annual Set the Night to Music Celebration will be held in the area of the Williamsport Hampton Inn for a world class fireworks display, fired off the Market Street Bridge, and choreographed to a super patriot soundtrack.

BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS JUNE 17, 2021

LOCAL RESIDENT TO APPEAR ON HISTORY CHANNEL SURVIVAL SHOW

Rose Anna Moore, 43, of Wellsboro, is a contestant on the History Channel’s survival show “Alone” this season. The show aims to see which contestant can survive the longest, alone in the wild, before they give up. Up for grabs is $500,000.  According to a media source, an estimated 20,000 people applied for the show. Moore’s blog, This Is My Quest deals with her conservationist lifestyle and sustainable living. New episodes of “Alone” premiere Thursdays at 9:30 p.m. on the History Channel.

WILLIAMSPORT GUNMAN ARRAIGNED 

A gunman who shot multiple rounds into the occupied home at 1155 Isabella Street around 2:06 am on May 22, was identified and apprehended by the US Marshals Service in Harrisburg. Kiam L. Alford, 24, of 618 Elmira St., according to an affidavit by a detective with the Lycoming County Narcotics Enforcement Unit alleges Alford was seen on a security camera, shooting several rounds into the exterior wall. District Judge Christian D. Frey  arraigned Alford on multiple felonies and denied his bail and Alford is an inmate at Lycoming County Prison.

MISSING MAN MISSING FROM WILLIAMSPORT

State police in Montoursville are searching for Kristopher Michael Fike, an area man who has been missing for 11 days and was last seen June 5th at 11 am. Fike, 32, of Williamsport, is 5 feet and 6 inches tall and 170 pounds, and has brown eyes and black hair. According to state police, Fike has a mental health diagnosis and has attempted self-harm in the past. Anyone with information should contact the State Police in Montoursville.

INCREASE IN REAL ESTATE TAXES FOR WILLIAMSPORT AREA SCHOOL BOARD

Members of the Williamsport Area School Board, voted unanimously, to approve increasing the real estate tax rates by .35 mills for the upcoming year.  The board also approved the farmstead and homestead exclusion real estate tax assessment reductions for the school year beginning July 1, 2021. According to the exemption resolution, 7,424 homesteads and 25 farmsteads qualify to receive the reduction.

MULTIPLE CHARGES STEMMING FROM INCIDENT AT UPMC

The UPMC Police and Security staff responded to two calls on June 9 to deal with a combative individual. Beau Beisswanger, 33, of Williamsport, according to authorities, assaulted staff and urinated in hallways throughout the hospital. Beisswanger was charged with multiple felonies is currently being held at the Lycoming County Prison in lieu of $75,000 monetary bail with his preliminary hearing scheduled for today with Judge Aaron S. Beak Lee.

STOLEN VEHICLE FROM UNI-MART ON HIGH STREET WILLIAMSPORT

The Williamsport Bureau of Police are actively searching for a vehicle reported stolen from the Uni-Mart on High Street.  The vehicle, described as a blue/green Mazda 3 bearing PA registration #LNA2131, traveling west on High Street. If you have any information, please contact Sergeant Jody Miller with the Williamsport Bureau of Police.

ANNUAL DRUG TAKE BACK PROGRAM

Once again, the Pocono Raceway will host the annual Drug Take Back Program during the 2021 NASCAR Doubleheader weekend Fri., June 25, Saturday, June 26, and Sun., June 27th where the public is encouraged to bring unused or outdated prescription drugs to the race Those who drop off prescription drugs will be  given a voucher for prize drawings that will include driver autographed items and more. Since Attorney General Shapiro took office in Jan. 2017, the Drug Take Back program has destroyed close to 200 tons of prescription drugs.

H.B. 262 PROTECTING EMPLOYEES RIGHTS

A bill being proposed in Harrisburg would prevent employers from mandating health screenings or vaccinations as a condition of employment. This legislation is intended to enshrine the right to refuse invasive medical screenings an vaccinations in state law and provide civil damages for employees who’s rights are violated. Exceptions would be retained for some specific medical testing required by state or federal law, testing for illegal use of drugs (but not marijuana), and testing necessary to comply with federal OSHA requirements. The bill is co-sponsored by Rep., Joe Hamm.

COCKTAIL SALES TO GO

A policy that would make permanent a COVID-19 rule allowing cocktail sales to go in Pennsylvania advanced out of the Senate Law and Justice Committee on Tuesday. The proposal, House Bill 1154, comes one year after Wolf signed a measure that authorized the sales as a “lifeline” to struggling bars and restaurants that lacked few revenue streams amid widespread pandemic shut downs. HB 1154 moved to the full Senate for consideration. If approved, it will return to the House for concurrence.

SCHOLARSHIPS FOR UPTOWN MUSIC COLLECTIVE

The Uptown Music Collective, the area’s premier nonprofit school of music, is now accepting scholarship applications for its 2021-2022 school year, which will begin in September.  This year, the Collective is offering 11 needs- and merit-based scholarships to currently enrolled students, as well as new students. All scholarships cover one full year at the school of music and the Collective is offering a new online application, reminding applicants,the deadline to apply is July 16 with Scholarships awarded in August.

 

BACKYARD BROADCASTING 2021 JUNE 16, 2021

SELF-INFLICTED CAUSE OF DEATH FOR MALE FOUND IN LOYALSOCK TOWNSHIP

The SUN Gazette reported that the male body found in a parked vehicle, just off of Lycoming Creek Road and north of Hays Lane at 7:15 pm Monday evening has been ruled as self-inflicted, according to Jerold Ross, the county’s chief deputy coroner.

A RALLY AND A DANCE PARTY PROTEST

While the Lycoming County Commissioners were holding their weekly meeting inside the Executive Plaza building yesterday, outside, a rally and dance party was held in support of the LGBTQ+ community and to protest requests from 2 County Commissioner to re-shelve books from the Pride month display at the James V. Brown library. According to northcentralpa.com, the request to the library’s executive director to take down the pride display, and a subsequent Facebook post made by County Commissioner Metzger provoked a widespread and vocal reaction.

THIRTY-SIX PEOPLE SPOKE TO THE COMMISSIONERS AT THEIR MEETING LAST NIGHT

The Lycoming County Commissioners meeting last evening was inundated with the issues surrounding the request to the library’s executive director to take down the pride display, and a subsequent Facebook post made by County Commissioner Metzger provoked a widespread and vocal reaction, one that occupied most of the meeting. According to a media source, upwards of thirty-six people addressed the commissioners from the microphone which varied for support of their library to support of the commissioners. In the end, “It was a request,” said Metzger, who made it clear that the library’s funding is not in jeopardy over the issue.

COVID-19 PARTNERS TO HOLD DRIVE-THRU CLINICS

UPMC in North Central Pa. is set to partner with Lock Haven University, Clinton County and Keystone Central School District to host drive-thru COVID-19 vaccine clinics on Friday, June 25 and Monday, June 28 from noon to 4 p.m. at Lock Haven University’s Student Recreation Center, 550 Railroad St., Lock Haven. Both clinics are free and open to the public. According to a media source, the Pfizer and Johnson & Johnson vaccines will be available to community members ages 12 and over. Registration is not required.

2021 CITATION OF EXCELLENCE FOR DISTRICT 8

The Pennsylvania Music Educators Association (PMEA) recently honored Williamsport Area High School teacher Kent Weaver with its 2021 Citation of Excellence for District 8 and is given to  “PMEA members who have made lasting contributions in their area of teaching.”  According to northcentralpa.com, Weaver received his citation from Head Principal Dr. Brandon Pardoe during a surprise break in the high school’s annual “Poptastik!” concert on June 2.Weaver, who retired on June 10 after 31 years at WAHS, is the only K-12 teacher in the state to have been awarded the citation twice since 2000.He last received the award in 2010.

A PURSUIT ENDED IN MULTIPLE FELONIES FOR A MIFFLINBURG MAN

Officer Shaffer, a Middleburg police officer responded to screams coming from a parked car and found a Mifflinburg man in the act of allegedly physically and sexually assaulting a woman. According to a media outlet,  Shaffer was at Penns Creek Pit Stop on June 2 when he saw a woman in a black sedan screaming for help. Pennsylvania State Police at Milton filed multiple felony charges at District Judge Jeffrey C. Mensch’s Office for both the pursuit and assault cases. Irvine’s bail $230,000. Irvine has a formal arraignment on July 26 in front of Judge Michael Hudock at Union County Court of Common Pleas.

300,000 COVID-19 VACCINES AND COUNTING

Geisinger has reached another milestone as we work to move past the COVID-19 pandemic. Recently, Geisinger has administered COVID-19 vaccine number 301,306. Geisinger continues its vaccination efforts by offering walk-in vaccines. The next one is tomorrow at the Geisinger Jersey Shore Hospital Vaccine Center from 9 am to 5 pm and Friday at the Geisinger Hughes Center from 9am to noon.

PASSPORT PREP AT JAMES V BROWN LIBRARY

The James V. Brown Library is an official Passport Acceptance Facility . Library staff also can take your passport photo, making the library a one-stop shop for all your passport needs. Passport books are required for all air travel. According to a media outlet, State Department officials also encourage renewing soon because many countries are now enforcing a requirement for at least six months’ validity on a United States passport. Renewals are expected to take about six weeks. Most Americans can renew passports by mail for a fee of $110.

GUARANTEED ENERGY SAVINGS PROJECT PROPOSAL FOR THE MILTON AREA SCHOOL DISTRICT

The Milton Area School Board will move forward with an estimated $5 million project in an effort to reduce energy costs and eliminate conditions that led to previous mold problems in the 2018-19 school year. During the public meeting last night, school board members approved the Guaranteed Energy Savings Project Proposal with a pricetag of $3.04 million. They now seek bids for controls and equipment using $1.96 million in Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief Funding. A news media outlet reported, the goal is to have bids ready for consideration in July with the work completed by the end of February 2022.

CHANGE IN LITTLE LEAGUE BRACKETS FOR THIS YEAR

Traditionally designated as the US and International brackets for the Little League World Series this year will be a little different. With only teams from the US participating this year, the Little League World Series is naming its brackets after MLB Hall of Famers Hank Aaron and Tom SEAVER. 8 teams will play in each bracket with the championship team in each playing in the World Series Championship Game.  The World Series begins on August 19th in South Williamsport and wraps up on Sunday, August 29th.

SUNBURY CITY POLICE GETTING A NEW  HOUSE

The new home of the Sunbury Police Department, 337 Arch Street, is expected to be completed by Sept. 3, according to the Daily Item. Hepco Construction, of Selinsgrove, was awarded the $829,235 project earlier this year. The 5,900-square-feet building is currently having essential electrical completed, including installation of cameras and high-speed internet. The building, according to Councilman Jim Eister, will be a staple in the city.

AUTOPSIES PERFORMED ON SHOOTING VICTIMS FROM SNYDERTOWN

Northumberland County Coroner James Kelley has named 17-year-old John Paul Dickens as the third victim in a triple homicide June 9 in a Snydertown home. Kelley, said the deaths of Susan Williams, A news source reported state police have charged Matthew J. Reed, 23, with the murders. Reed, who was denied bail by Shamokin District Judge John Gembic, is due back in court on June 22.

ALL CHARGES BOUND OVER IN NORTHUMBERLAND COUNTY HOMICIDE CASE

Homicide charges against the Mount Carmel man accused in the death of 21-year-old Cheyenne Swartz were bound to Northumberland County Court on Tuesday, following a two-hour preliminary hearing.  Accused murderer Stephen Kruskie, 26, of West Third Street, will now face trial. Kruskie and his attorney,appeared before Shamokin District Judge John Gembic yesterday in an attempt to get homicide and homicide by vehicle charges thrown out. Coal Township Police charged Kruskie with running over Swartz on May 21. According to the Daily Item,  Judge Gembic listened to the testimony and, after both defense and prosecution ended their closing arguments, he bound all charges to county court.

GO FUND ME SUPPORTING FAMILY OF HOMICIDE VICTIMS

GoFundMe page has more than 300 donors . . . According to a media outlet, the tragic murders of Susan Williams and James Dicken Senior and Junior  left Anthony Dicken of New Jersey grieving over the loss of his family. A GoFundMe page was created Saturday and community support has been constant, with more than 50 donors that pledged at least $200.

POSITIVE AND UPLIFTING COVID-19 UPDATE FROM GOV TOM WOLF

Gov. Tom Wolf and Acting Secretary of Health Alison Beam had good news in a Tuesday update on COVID-19: a seven-day case increase of 2,044 (a decrease from a week ago), a statewide percent positivity of 1.9% , while locally Clinton County remains in the “low” transmission category, Centre and Lycoming counties in “moderate.” According to the Daily Item, Gov Tom Wolf notes,  we are seeing COVID-19 case counts increasing at a much lower pace, but we still see Pennsylvanians contract the virus each day,

Yacht Rock Weekend

Now, you might be saying… “what is Yacht Rock?”   Well in case you don’t know, yacht rock is music primarily created between 1976 and ’84, that can be characterized as smooth and melodic and typically combines elements of jazz, rhythm and blues, and rock.  Think of artists like Michael McDonald, Kenny Loggins, 10CC, Steely Dan, Christopher Cross and Pablo Cruise.  Think of the soft rock sounds of “AM Gold.”  We’ll be featuring a selection of these songs throughout the weekend, and to better help you understand the music and sound of “Yacht Rock”, you can hear a sampling of songs below and check out the list of songs and artist you might hear over the weekend.

“Yacht Rock Music Sampler”

I’m Not In Love 10CC
The Things We Do For Love 10CC
How Long Ace
Even the Night Are Better Air Supply
Time Passages Al Stewart
Year Of The Cat Al Stewart
Eye In The Sky Alan Parsons Project
How Much I Feel Ambrosia
The Biggest Part Of Me Ambrosia
You’re The Woman (You and I) Ambrosia
A Horse With No Name America
Daisy Jane America
Sister Golden Hair America
Ventura Highway America
You Can Do Magic America
Lonely Boy Andrew Gold
So In To You Atlanta Rhythm Section
Spooky Atlanta Rhythm Section
Guilty Barbara Streisand [+] Barry Gibb
Just Another Day In Paradise Bertie Higgins
Key Largo Bertie Higgins
Lovely Day Bill Withers
The Tide Is High Blondie
Ride Captain Ride Blues Image
Sentimental Lady Bob Welch
What You Won’t Do for Love Bobby Caldwell
Jojo Boz Scaggs
Lido Shuffle Boz Scaggs
Lowdown Boz Scaggs
Baby I’m A Want You Bread
Everything I Own Bread
Make It With You Bread
The Way It Is Bruce Hornsby & The Range
Anticipation Carly Simon
Coming Around Again Carly Simon
You Belong To Me Carly Simon
You’re So Vain Carly Simon
Baby, What A Big Surprise Chicago
Call On Me Chicago
Just You ‘N’ Me Chicago
Saturday In The Park Chicago
Wishing You Were Here Chicago
My Girl (Gone Gone Gone) Chilliwack
Arthur’s Theme (Best That You Can Christopher Cross
Never Be The Same Christopher Cross
Ride Like The Wind Christopher Cross
Sailing Christopher Cross
Feels So Good Chuck Mangione
Couldn’t Get It Right Climax Blues Band
Just A Song Before I Go Crosby Stills Nash
Southern Cross Crosby Stills Nash
Longer Dan Fogelberg
We Just Disagree Dave Mason
Goodbye Girl David Gates
I.G.Y. Donald Fagen
New Frontier Donald Fagen
The Captain of the Heart Double
Sharing The Night Together DR. Hook
When You’re In Love With A Beautiful Dr. Hook & The Medicine Show
After The Love Has Gone Earth, Wind & Fire
Two Tickets To Paradise Eddie Money
I’d Really Love To See You Tonight England Dan [+] John Ford Coley
Love Is the Answer England Dan [+] John Ford Coley
Nights Are Forever without You England Dan [+] John Ford Coley
We’ll Never Have to Say Goodbye England Dan [+] John Ford Coley
All By Myself Eric Carmen
Never Gonna Fall In Love Again Eric Carmen
Kiss You All Over Exile
Just Remember I Love You Firefall
You Are The Woman Firefall
Dreams Fleetwood Mac
Everywhere Fleetwood Mac
You Make Loving Fun Fleetwood Mac
Sweetheart Frankie & The Knockouts
Dream Weaver Gary Wright
Love Is Alive Gary Wright
Breezin’ George Benson
Give Me The Night George Benson
Baker Street Gerry Rafferty
Right Down The Line Gerry Rafferty
I Just Wanna Stop Gino Vannelli
Wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald Gordon Lightfoot
Just The Two of Us Grover Washington Jr.
I Can’t Go For That (No Can Do) Hall & Oates
Kiss On My List Hall & Oates
One on One Hall & Oates
Rich Girl Hall & Oates
Sara Smile Hall & Oates
She’s Gone Hall & Oates
Shannon Henry Gross
Route 101 Herb Alpert
Rock The Boat Hues Corporation
Doctor My Eyes Jackson Browne
Somebody’s Baby Jackson Browne
Yah Mo Be There James Ingram
Handyman James Taylor
Her Town Too James Taylor
Shower the People James Taylor
Thunder Island Jay Ferguson
Miracles Jefferson Starship
Runaway Jefferson Starship
Changes In Latitudes, Changes In Jimmy Buffett
Come Monday Jimmy Buffett
Fins Jimmy Buffett
Margaritaville Jimmy Buffett
Steppin’ Out Joe Jackson
Believe It Or Not (Theme from the Joey Scarbury
Calypso John Denver
I Can See Clearly Now Johnny Nash
Swayin’ to the Music Johnny Rivers
Heart to Heart Kenny Loggins
This Is It Kenny Loggins
Whenever I Call You Friend Kenny Loggins [+] Stevie Nicks
I Like Dreamin’ Kenny Nolan
When I Need You Leo Sayer
You Make Me Feel Like Dancing Leo Sayer
All Night Long Lionel Richie
Cool Change Little River Band
Lonesome Loser Little River Band
Reminiscing Little River Band
The Night Owls Little River Band
Where Were You When I Was Falling Lobo
Danny’s Song Loggins & Messina
Vahevala Loggins & Messina
Brandy (You’re A Fine Girl) Looking Glass
You Don’t Have To Be A Star Marilyn McCoo [+] Billy Davis, Jr.
Hearts Marty Balin
Break My Stride Matthew Wilder
This Night Won’t Last Forever Michael Johnson
I Gotta Try Michael McDonald
I Keep Forgettin’ Michael McDonald
Sweet Freedom Michael McDonald
Wildfire Michael Murphy
Lotta Love Nicolette Larson
Dancin’ Shoes Nigel Olsson
American Dream Nitty Gritty Dirt Band
Magic Olivia Newton John
Dance With Me Orleans
Still The One Orleans
Jackie Blue Ozark Mountain Daredevils
A Place in the Sun Pablo Cruise
Love Will Find a Way Pablo Cruise
Whatcha Gonna Do? Pablo Cruise
I Go Crazy Paul Davis
Arrow Through Me Paul McCartney
With A Little Luck Paul McCartney
Baby Come Back Player
Crazy Love Poco
Let Me Love You Tonight Pure Prairie League
Hearts On Fire Randy Meisner
Just When I Needed You Most Randy VanWarmer
You Can’t Change That Ray Parker, Jr. [+] Raydio
Chuck E’s In Love Ricky Lee Jones
(Your Love is Lifting Me) Higher and Rita Coolidge
Hot Rod Hearts Robbie Dupree
Steal Away Robbie Dupree
Every Kind of People Robert Palmer
Escape (The Pina Colada Song) Rupert Holmes
Him Rupert Holmes
Chevy Van Sammy Johns
Smoke From A Distant Fire Sanford Townsend Band
Diamond Girl Seals & Crofts
Get Closer Seals & Crofts
Summer Breeze Seals & Crofts
I Got to Know Starbuck
Moonlight Feels Right Starbuck
Deacon Blues Steely Dan
Do It Again Steely Dan
Hey, Nineteen Steely Dan
Peg Steely Dan
Reelin’ In the Years Steely Dan
On And On Stephen Bishop
Save It For A Rainy Day Stephen Bishop
The Joker Steve Miller Band
Somebody’s Knockin’ Terri Gibbs
Minute by Minute The Doobie Brothers
Takin’ It To The Streets The Doobie Brothers
What A Fool Believes The Doobie Brothers
It Keeps You Runnin’ The Doobie Brothers [+] Michael
I Can’t Tell You Why The Eagles
New Kid In Town The Eagles
One Of These Nights The Eagles
Tequila Sunrise The Eagles
Hello It’s Me Todd Rundgren
I Saw The Light Todd Rundgren
99 Toto
Africa Toto
Georgy Porgy Toto
Rosanna Toto
Love Is the Answer Utopia
The Hustle Van McCoy
Magnet and Steel Walter Egan

BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS JUNE 14, 2021

OFFICER INVOLVED FATAL SHOOTING 

A state trooper first responded to the home just after 3 p.m. following a 911 hangup call. Outside a residence, just south of Watsontown, a 70-year-old Northumberland County man shot at  police and was fatally wounded when state police returned gun fire, according to State Police in Stonington. William Michael Kradlak Jr. died on Friday at Evangelical Community Hospital, Lewisburg, at 4:41 p.m., less than one hour after the shooting, as reported by a media source. Magisterial District Judge Michael Diehl, Milton, issued the warrant Friday night to state police. Investigators sought evidence inside the home owned by Kradlak’s half-brother, Dirk van Heiningen, 78. Items sought include firearms and ammunition, cellphones and electronic communication devices, documents including potentially a suicide note, recording devices and video surveillance footage, the warrant states. According to the State Police did not release the name of the officers  involved.

SHOTS FIRED SUSPECT FACES HIS PRELIMINARY HEARING

In a preliminary hearing before District Judge Christian Frey, Bryce Zimmerman — the man who fired shotgun at the feet of a landlord in Newberry on May 26 —  found out  all but one felony charge held over for court. The shooting occurred just before noon outside where Zimmerman lives, police said. The one hour standoff ended peaceful when he came out and surrendered.Frey ruled there was sufficient evidence to hold Zimmerman on charges of aggravated assault, terroristic threats, recklessly endangering, simple assault and possession of an instrument of crime. Zimmerman remains incarcerated in the Lycoming County Prison.

PENNSYLVANIA DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION CLOSED FOR JUNETEENTH

The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) today announced that all driver license and photo centers, including the Riverfront Office Center in Harrisburg, will be closed Friday, June 18, 2021, in observance of Juneteenth.  According to a media outlet, 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.

HUNTING LICENSES GO ON SALE TODAY

Hunting and fur-taker licenses go on sale today and the new license year begins July 1,  with more Sunday hunting opportunities on the way, additional days available for hunters to fill their antler-less deer tags and the biggest allotment of elk licenses yet, the 2021-22 . You can purchase your license online or at any licensing issuing agents statewide. General hunting licenses and fur-taker licenses each cost $20.97 for Pennsylvania residents and $101.97 for nonresidents. A complete list of licensing requirements can be found on the Pennsylvania game commission website.

ARRESTED FOR STABBING A MAN WITH A KEY

Matthew Armani Lassus, 23, of Philadelphia was charged with a felony after he allegedly stabbed another man in the face with a key. Scott Township Police responded Geisinger Hospital in Bloomsburg to investigate the incident to discover the victim in the emergency room. The black plastic of the key fab was protruding from the left side of his upper jaw/cheek area. The victim reported an argument over dinner prior to his injury, according to northcentralpa.com. Lassus was charged with multiple felonies and misdemeanors and was released from Columbia County Prison when he posted bail. His preliminary hearing is June 23.

COVID-19 DISASTER DECLARATION TERMINATED

Covid-19 disaster declaration terminated. According to State Rep Jeff Wheeland, he was proud to vote with the majority of his colleagues to fully terminate the governor’s COVID-19 disaster emergency declaration.  The measure was also approved by the senate Thursday and is effective immediately. It brings to a close the governor’s ability to tell private businesses if they can stay open or how many people they can have walk through their doors. It also ends his ability to command people to stay at home. Now we can focus on reviewing the hundreds of regulations that have been waived or suspended during the pandemic.

CRIMINAL TRESPASS CHARGES EARNED FOR FAILURE TO OBEY AUTHORITIES

After warnings from the Bloomsburg Police Department, a Bloomsburg was arrested, as he hid in a shed.  Chad Young, of Bloomsburg was warned on May 26 and  27 by officers, that he was not welcome on a property located on Wirt Street. On May 29, officers return to the property and find Young, inside a shed in the backyard. Young was charged with third-degree felony criminal trespassing after Bloomsburg Police responded to reports of him being on the property. According to northcentralpa.com, Young was also charged with third-degree misdemeanor defiant trespass law and legal definition and misdemeanor marijuana possession. Young was given $5,000 unsecured bail, which he posted on June 9.

BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS JUNE 11, 2021

NORTHUMBERLAND COUNTY MURDER SUSPECT ARRAIGNED YESTERDAY

State Police in Stonington reported  Matthew J Reed planned to steal a 1997 Toyota Camry from the victims and brought a gun to kill them if he needed to when he shot and killed three people inside a Snydertown home Wednesday, according to arrest papers. Reed confessed to murdering Susan Williams, 58, James Dicken, 59, and an unidentified 17-year-old male at 3425 Snydertown Road, according to a criminal affidavit filed by state police. Northumberland County District Judge John Gembic denied Reed’s request for bail at his arraignment yesterday. .State police noted in arrest papers that Reed said he “‘snapped’ and started shooting and when he was done all three victims were deceased.”  Reed is scheduled to appear before Gembic for his preliminary hearing June 22, according to The Daily Item.

CONTINUANCE GRANTED FOR WINFIELD WOMAN FACING FIREARMS POSSESSION CHARGE

Magisterial District Judge John Reed granted a continuance Wednesday to Myrle Miller, 76, of Winfield, who’s charged in Snyder County with illegal possession of a firearm. The long rifle belonged to her late husband, John W. Nichols, according to arrest papers. The charge resulted from the investigation leading to Miller’s homicide arrest in Union County for allegedly fatally poisoning Nichols. The Daily Item reported Miller was scheduled for a preliminary hearing Wednesday on the count, and that hearing is now postponed as she seeks an attorney, Snyder County District Attorney. Miller was previously granted a continuance by Magisterial District Judge Jeffrey Mensch, Mifflinburg, in the homicide case. She was to appear before Mensch on Tuesday.

BUFFALO VALLEY REGIONAL POLICE LOOKING FOR MILTON MAN FACING INVOLUNTARY DEVIATE SEXUAL INTERCOURSE CHARGES

A Milton man provided a juvenile girl alcohol and forced her to perform a sexual act on him, according to Buffalo Valley Regional Police.Police charged Anthony R. Bach, 22, with two counts of involuntary deviate sexual intercourse and one count of furnishing alcohol to a minor. The juvenile accuser made the allegations during an interview at the Child Advocacy Center in Sunbury. Police said attempts to contact Bach have failed, according to a media outlet. He hasn’t yet been arraigned on the charges filed Tuesday at the office of Magisterial District Judge Jeffrey Rowe.

TWO ALARM BLAZE IN LOCK HAVEN

An early morning two alarm blaze rocked a residence near the intersection of W. 4th Street and W. Church Street in Lock Haven.  Clinton County Communications reported fire crews cleared the scene at 3 am and the fire remains under investigation.

PROPOSED ELECTION LAW REFORMS

Area House lawmakers are behind a proposed bill calling for election law reforms. The legislation, produced by state Rep. Seth Grove, chairman of the State Government Committee, would change deadlines, adopt new rules for early voting, alter mail-in ballot procedures, and require IDs for in-person voters. State Rep. Joe Hamm, R-Montoursville, said it is absolutely necessary to restore trust in the election process. “This bill, on its own, makes it easier to vote, harder to cheat,” he said. State Rep. Clint Owlett, called the legislation the first step in a lengthy reform process. State Rep. Jeff Wheeland, said the bill comes as the result of hearings and testimony, including from county officials across the state concerned about the voting process. Gov. Wolf, who is expected to veto the bill, has emphasized that results from the 2020 election were certified and accurate with no evidence of fraud.

PENNSYLVANIA STATE POLICE REPORT DRIVING UNDER INFLUENCE STATS

The Pennsylvania State Police announced yesterday that troopers made 18,412 driving under the influence arrests in 2020, which reflects a one percent decrease from the total number of dui arrests in 2019. Also, troopers investigated 4,157 DUI related crashes in 2020. According to a press release, impaired driving is a serious crime that continues to impact our roadways. Troopers were tasked with additional duties during the COVID-19 pandemic, but they continued to work with law enforcement partners to keep our roadways safe through a combination of dui education and enforcement efforts. Troopers utilized virtual classrooms and completed over 1,300 traffic safety presentations in 2020.

BUDGET APPROVED FOR PCT 2021-22 SCHOOL YEAR

The Pennsylvania College of Technology Board of Directors approved a budget for the 2021-22 school year that shows no increase in tuition and fees for students. In 2021-22 school year, the in-state rate for tuition and fees will remain at $587 per credit hour, the same rate for the previous year. According to a media outlet, the budget also features are voluntary gifts of $100,000 to the City of Williamsport and $35,000 to the Williamsport Area School District. These gifts are re-evaluated annually.

41ST ANNUAL FLAGS ACROSS AMERICA 

The city of Williamsport will host the 41st annual Flags Across America event on flag day, it is a single ceremony at 7 p.m. at the Pennsylvania College of Technology, beneath one of the largest flying American flags in the region. “We are going to honor our nation on Flag Day and hold a ceremony,” said Robert Weaver, event co-coordinator with William Carlucci, an attorney and event speaker. “The city could not obtain a permit needed to hold the march on streets from the state Department of Transportation,”according to sun gazette. Boy Scout and Girl Scout troops, those riding bicycles decorated in red, white and blue, patriotic pet owners and others are invited to attend.

SIX-YEAR-OLD INSPIRATION DONATES OF TIME/ENERGY FOR WATER/GATORADE/SNACK DRIVE FOR LOCAL FIREFIGHTERS

“Paisley Armstrong, 6, of Danville, has stepped up and designed a water/gatorade/snack drive.” for local fire fighters. The official start date was scheduled to be June 19, but word got out and donations have been coming in.  Paisley visited the Goodwill Hose Company during their Chicken BBQ to drop off the first donation and then stopped in at the Friendship Fire Company for the second donation in a weekend of visit to local fire stations.  Paisley said that firefighters especially get hot and hungry when fighting fires so they need food and water. The next donation is scheduled  at the East End Fire Company on June 16.
According to a media outlet, Paisley had a goal of 10 cases of water, which she already achieved. They will continue to collect through the summer. Danville Fire Chief John Buckenberger said she has yet to meet Paisley but he appreciates her efforts. She deserves the recognition.

BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS MAY 1, 2021

VEHICLE THEFT AND DRUG USE

A 28-year –old homeless woman is scheduled to appear in Bradford County Court on April 23. Liza Johnson of Athens was initially charged with a second-degree felony of theft for an incident on March 4.  According to Towanda State Police, Johnson allegedly took a vehicle from a residence in Athens after she was denied a ride. Johnson allegedly was in possession of hypodermic needles, small plastic baggies, alcohol prep pads, and a modified spoon.  Troopers said they also discovered Johnson had an active warrant of arrest in Pennsylvania. Johnson was charged with unauthorized use of motor vehicles, use or possession of drug paraphernalia, and driving with a suspended license. Johnson is being held at the State Correctional Institution in Muncy on $50.000 monetary bail.

LEGALIZATION OF RECREATIONAL CANNABIS

New Jersey. New York. Virginia. One by one, Pennsylvania’s  neighbors are moving to legalize recreational cannabis for adults. And after years of saying he wouldn’t endorse such a move, Gov. Tom Wolf changed his position in 2019 and has committed to signing a bill, if it reaches his desk. But, in order for that to happen, the idea would need to gain backing among the Republican lawmakers who control both the state House and Senate. House Speaker Bryan Cutler opposed medial cannabis when it passed in 2016 and said in 2019 that legalization wasn’t the right move in helping the thousands of Pennsylvanians who are battling drug addiction.” Democrats in the chamber, as they have in past sessions, are still pushing for legalization, but with one major difference this spring – a Republican sponsor.

RIVER RESCUE IN LOCK HAVEN

Emergency officials responded to a call of an individual in the Susquehanna River on Thursday in Lock Haven. At approximately 4:40p.m. crews were alerted to a water rescue.  Upon assessing the situation, the call was upgraded to a technical rescue. “Typically a technical rescue is more complex or out of the                               ordinary,” said Tyler Wooding, Assistant Fire Chief of the Lock Haven Fire Department. In this case, additional resources, including rope rescue systems, were necessary to retrieve the person from the water. The effort took around one hour and 20 minutes, according to the Clinton County Department of Emergency Services. The cause of the incident is under investigation by law enforcement.

COMMUNITY THEATRE LEAGUE

For many students throughout Lycoming County and the surrounding area, theatre camps at the Community Theatre League in Williamsport are a highlight of the summer. CTL is excited to announce six weeks of theatrical education and fun for students entering Kindergarten through 12th grade, beginning July 12. This year’s theme is “Dream. Bigger.” It encourages ‘campers’ to grow through the arts. Taught by local theatre artists  and creative professionals, the three-hour day camps, which range from one to three weeks , engage local students through hands-on, active learning opportunities, with each camp culminating in a performance or presentation for families and friends. Fifteen separate camps offer students learning opportunities to expand onstage and backstage creativity. The Community Theatre League has been operating on a limited basis since March 2020, but is working to reopen under CDC and Department of Health guidelines.

SEXUAL ASSAULT ON A MINOR

A Shamokin man pled guilty on Friday to inappropriately touching  a teenage girl while he was free on bail for a different sexual assault accusation. Hunter Dannheimer of Shamokin , pleaded guilty in front of Northumberland County Judge Paige Rosini to one misdemeanor count of indecent assault of a person age 16 or under. A pre-sentence investigation was ordered before he is sentenced within 90 days .  Dannheimer faces a maximum penalty of two years in prison and a $5,000 fine as well as being a lifetime Megan’s Law registrant.  A felony count of unlawful  contact with a minor and a felony count of corruption of minors were dropped as part of the plea deal.

TAX INCREASE LOYALSOCK TOWNSHIP

Residents of the Loyalsock Township School District could face just under a half mill increase in real estate taxes next year if the tentative budget introduced  this week is approved as the final budge by June 30. Dan Egly, district business manager, introduced the 2021-22 budgets reflecting a .43 mill increase in real estate taxes for residents of the district. If the millage increase is approved in the final budget, township residents would pay an extra $43 per $100,000 of the assessed value of their property.

COVID-19 DASHBOARD FOR TODAY

The Pennsylvania Department of Health today confirmed 5,048 additional positive cases of COVID-19. There were 77 new cases in Centre County, 35 in L ycoming County, 32 in Northumberland, 13 in Clinton, 12 in Snyder, 10 in Montour, 7 in Union, and 7 in Tioga.

STRUCTURE FIRE IN THE CITY

Williamsport Bureau of Fire responded to a fire Friday evening around 5 pm on Campbell Street. The fire was called in as a porch fire with two possible entrapment. Williamsport Bureau of Police units blocked traffic on Park Avenue from east of Campbell Street, including the Campbell and Park intersection. The fire damaged at least one house next door by melting the siding.

UPTOWN MUSIC COLLECTIVE LIVE

The Uptown Music Collective is bringing back live shows this month. The music school in downtown Williamsport is well known for its big performances at the Williamsport Community Arts Center. The upcoming show is called “Good Times, Bad Times” and it is a tribute to Led Zepplin. There will be three live performances. One of the shows will be streamed for folks who feel more comfortable staying at home. You can buy tickets to the live shows or buy access to the live stream on the Uptown Music Collective website.

SMUGGLING TOBACCO INTO ALLENWOOD LOW

A Northumberland County man has admitted he accepted bribes to smuggle tobacco products into inmates at the Allenwood low-security prison.  William Lokitis, of Marion Heights, on Thursday in the U.S. Middle District Court pleaded guilty to a charge of bribery of public officials. The prison is smoke-free so possession of tobacco is considered contraband. Inmates are known to sell tobacco using postage stamps as money. Lokitis was released on personal recognizance pending sentencing.

JERSEY SHORE OFFICER CHARGED WITH SEXUAL ASSAULT ON MINOR

A Jersey Shore cop who once received a “key to Ocean City” is charged with sexually assaulting a minor. Tyrone Rolls turned himself in at the Cape May Prosecutor’s Office Wednesday. Rolls was charged with aggravated sexual assault, aggravated sexual assault  of a domestic violence victim, official misconduct and endangering the welfare of a child, prosecutors said. If convicted on all charges, Rolls could be sentenced to 65 years in prison.

APPLE TREES AND OTHER TREES TO BE PLANTED IN CENTRALIA

The mostly abandoned coal mining town of Centralia will soon see new life when an environmental group plants 250 apple trees during an event on April 17, hosted by the Eastern Pennsylvania Coalition for Abandoned Mine Reclamation. The planting is part of a plan to restore the ecosystem in the town and improve wildlife habitats. Executive director Bobby Hughes says the group will be planting 16 varieties of trees next weekend in an effort to beautify the properties there that are vacant.

MUNCY BOROUGH COUNCIL LOOKING FOR NEW SEAT

The Muncy Borough Council is in the early stages of finding a new borough hall to seat its operations. The current borough hall is a historic building and is not accessible to disabled residents. So, the borough council is working on finding the best location for a borough hall – either through construction , expansion or renovation.  An option standing at the forefront  of the borough’s conversation is purchasing the Muncy Area Volunteer Fire Company’s fire hall, which it intends to sell, then  renovating it. However, Borough Council President Ed Feigle said the cost may be too high. The fire department is asking for $275,000 but Feigle anticipates renovations to make the building functional as a borough hall might push the total cost up to half a million dollars.

 

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