BACKYARD BROADCASTING JUNE 10, 2021

2ND ANNUAL T-MOBILE HOME RUN DERBY

The Williamsport Area Little League (WALL) is hosting its second annual T-Mobile home run derby at the Old Lycoming baseball fields, this Saturday, June 12 at 2 p.m. The event is free to all registered Little League baseball and softball players within Lycoming County, according to northcentralpa.com.  Additional information and registration forms are available on the Williamsport Little League website.

PRIDE MONTH BOOK DISPLAY QUESTIONED

After a recent visit to the James V. Brown Library in Williamsport, Lycoming County Commissioner Scott Metzger shared a Facebook post referencing a display of books, honoring Pride Month, in the Children’s wing. Metzger wrote: “The Lycoming County Commissioners provide just under 1.3 million dollars for our 6 county libraries. Two of the three commissioners have asked the library director to remove these books from display and place them back on the shelves.” His post, was urging the community to connect with the library and request the immediate removal of books from the display, according to northcentralpa.com. At the end of the day, it’s up to the library’s discretion, Metzger said, as to whether or not the display will come down.

ASSAULT AND TERRORISTIC  THREATS IN UNION COUNTY

A man in Union County who allegedly repeatedly kicked a woman in the head and threatened to kill her was charged with aggravated assault. Nathan A. Snyder, 43, had taken a female victim into the basement of a residence in Limestone Township the evening of May 16.  The victim was able to get away and pounded on a neighbor’s door for help. She was taken to Geisinger Medical Center, where it was determined her injuries were life threatening. State Police in Milton charged Snyder with a felony and multiple misdemeanors. According to a media outlet, his bail was set at $25,000 monetary, which he posted. Snyder’s preliminary hearing in front of District Judge Jeffrey C. Mensch is set for June 22.

FELONY ASSAULT ON EMS CREW

An inmate at SCI-Muncy was charged for allegedly spitting in the eye of an emergency responder while he was transported her to the hospital.  EMS responded to the State Correctional Institute at Muncy on April 30 to transport Angela Monteiro, to UPMC-Muncy for a reported medical emergency. After cursing at the emergency responder from the Clinton Township Fire Dept., spit in his eye, according to northcentralpa.com. State police in Montoursville charged Monteiro with felony charges in the office of District Judge Jon E. Kemp. A preliminary hearing date has not yet been set.

COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT BLOCK GRANT COVID-19 FUNDS

Montour county commissioners on Tuesday approved agreements to provide the $44,865 in Community Development Block Grant COVID-19 funds to the fire companies to purchase personal protection equipment (PPE).Under the agreements, Washingtonville Fire Company will receive $16,151.40; East End Fire Company in Mahoning Township, $15,702.75; Valley Township Fire Company, $7,627.05, and Liberty Township Fire Company, $5,383.80, according to the Daily Item. Kristin McLaughlin of SEDA-COG worked with the fire companies on the agreements.

.CHILD ABUSE OF INFANT

Mifflinburg Police arrested two borough residents accused of child abuse, causing an infant less than 2 months old to suffer a brain bleed and fractured ribs.Tonya L. Kistler, 35, and Christopher M. Catherman, 30, each face multiple felonies. Mifflinburg Police filed the charges following an investigation that began with a referral on May 3 from ChildLine. Magisterial District Judge Jeffrey Mensch arraigned Kistler on Tuesday and set her free on $50,000 unsecured bail. Catherman is held in Snyder County jail, Selinsgrove, and is scheduled to be arraigned today. The child has since been placed in protective custody with Union County Children and Youth.

TRIPLE HOMICIDE IN NORTHUMBERLAND COUNTY

Three people were murdered yesterday inside a home in Snydertown, according to state police at Stonington. Investigators apprehended an unidentified suspect who is currently held at Northumberland County Jail to be arraigned later today, Trooper Josiah Reiner wrote in a press release. Police identified the victims as Susan Williams, 58, James Dicken, 59, and an unidentified 17-year-old male. They were killed between noon and 3 p.m. Wednesday at 3425 Snydertown Road, according to the Daily Item. Multiple state troopers were observed outside the home Wednesday evening. Police also converged 8 miles away near the boat ramp as well as Haven Ministry Center on South Front Street in Sunbury. One man was taken into custody about 8:15 p.m. outside the homeless shelter.

VEHICLE THEFT

On June 7 at 1114 pm Milton State Police investigated a stolen vehicle from the property of 611 Ridge Rd, Cooper Township in Montour County.  According to the victim, his 1989 Ford F-150 described as being blue and black with tiger stripes on the front was stolen from the property. State police prepared a criminal complaint charging Ernie Charles DAVIS with theft of a motor vehicle and other charges stemming from this incident. Charges were filed and DAVIS was taken into custody and is in the Montour County Jail on $20,000 bail.

 

BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS JUNE 9, 2021

SENATE BILL 465

Legislation creating a new agricultural conservation assistance program was unanimously approved yesterday by the senate agriculture and rural affairs committee according to sen gene yaw, who sponsored the bill. If funded, senate bill 465 would provide additional tech support to expand on farm conservation practices throughout pa including high priority areas such as the Chesapeake bay watershed.

VOTE FOR ADDITIONAL EMS STAFF

The Montoursville Fire Department voted to move forward with additional ambulance staffing provided by UPMC North Central/Susquehanna Regional EMS.  The additional coverage will be one EMT to assist with staffing the ambulance from 6 am to 4 pm on Saturday and Sunday. This move is proactive in nature and one of several steps until a full time paid service is feasible.  According to their facebook page, their mix of home responders, live ins and day time paid staff have not allowed a single failure to respond for 2021.

CONSUMER-GRADE FIREWORKS ILLEGAL IN WILLIAMSPORT

According to Sun Gazette, State law in 2017 made it legal for consumer-grade fireworks to be purchased. With that in mind, the Williamsport Bureau of Police Assistant Chief Jason Bolt reminds residents the Use of consumer-grade fireworks in the city of Williamsport is illegal. It is important to remember, that punishment includes A fine of not more than $600, 90 days in jail or both can be imposed and is upon discretion of the district magistrate judge.

LYCOMING COUNTY HEALTH CARE CENTER

On Tuesday, the Lycoming County commissioners approved an agreement with Palumbo Group Architects for engineering and design services for the county health care center, with a proposed price tag of   $89,400. The facility, in the county’s Third Street Plaza building, is set to serve as a preventative medicine site specifically for county employees. Commissioners believe the health center will help save money on health insurance costs as they keep employees more productive and healthy. According to a media outlet, the county now spends upwards of $14 million per year on health coverage.

DR GRACE SHU, LYCOMING COUNTY INTERNATIONAL AFFAIRS DIRECTOR

At the latest meeting, Lycoming County Commissioners appointed Dr. Grace Shu to serve as the county’s international affairs director. Shu’s position is to  help facilitate business connections and investments with overseas markets. It is thought, according to SUN Gazette, Shu will be able to bring more jobs to the area through her connections.

HILLMAN CANCER CENTER FOR UPMC

Yesterday, the ceremonial ribbon was cut on the newly renovated and expanded Hillman Cancer Center for UPMC, designed to improve the treatment and care process for patients in the battle against the disease. The $15 million project includes the creation of 22 physician examination room and 28 chemotherapy bays as well additional space for therapy programming and  and a new linear accelerator located on the ground floor can target small cancer areas for more effective treatments. Each year, the Cancer Center has more than 32,000 outpatient encounters and performs 45,000 procedures.

TABLED ELEVATOR RECOMMENDATION

On Tuesday, the City Council’s finance committee tabled a recommendation to have the City Hall elevator replaced in a $312,828 contract to Otis Elevator Co. until the recommendation can be reviewed by the city legal counsel. The issues surround the need for accessible upgrades to the exterior doors, according to Sun Gazette. Although a larger price tag, $552, 268, the Lundy Construction bid is all-inclusive to include the accessible upgrades. The discussion continues at the next meeting.

SERVICE BUILDING AND ADDITIONAL PARKING FOR LYCOMING COLLEGE

A service building and additional parking spaces at its Shangraw Athletic Complex has been approved by city planning commission for Lycoming College. The building is expected to house locker rooms and training rooms with a replacement of bleachers and additional parking at the existing parking area.The additional parking plan was based on includes 41 more spaces on the existing area for parking. According to a media outlet, the land development plan is expected to be voted on by City Council next, said Gary Knarr, city zoning officer.

BRIDGE NUMBER 1 OF 17 BRIDGES IN THE BUNDLING PROGRAM

It’s the first of 17 bridges to be part of the inaugural bridge bundling program sponsored by the Lycoming County Commissioners began construction yesterday at the small bridge located along Mill Road over a tributary of Antes Creek in Limestone Township near the Village of Collomsville. According to a media outlet, the new bridge will consist of installation of an aluminum box style bridge, which replaces the deteriorated steel plate pipe culvert. Mill Road will be closed by the Township and a one mile detour will be in effect for about five weeks.

PHASE 2 OPENS IN EVANGELICAL COMMUNITY HOSPITAL’S PRIME PROJECT

Evangelical Community Hospital is set to open Phase 2 of its now-completed PRIME project with spaces they say are new, ultra modern, designed with patient comfort, privacy, adequate space, and healing in mind. Hospital President and CEO Kendra Aucker says newly completed PRIME just adds to the extraordinary healthcare offered in the area: “Between us and our tertiary partner Geisinger, you can get incredible healthcare in this region. The community has supported this hospital for 100 years. It’s the support and the management of this facility over the years that has allowed the hospital to continue to reinvest.”

GEISINGER WALK-IN COVID-19 VACCINES OPEN THIS WEEK

Geisinger continuing walk-in COVID-19 vaccines this week for anyone ages 12 and over. In fact, the Geisinger Jersey Shore Hospital Vaccine Center is open Thursday, June 10th from 9am to 330pm and Geisinger Hughes Center Vaccine Center in Danville on Friday June 11 from 9am to 1130am. Geisinger is offering the Pfizer BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine at all locations, which is a two-dose vaccine administered 21 days apart.

Set the Night To Music 2021 Information & Sponsors

SET THE NIGHT TO MUSIC 2021

GET READY FOR OUR 26th ANNUAL “SET THE NIGHT TO MUSIC FIREWORKS EXTRAVAGANZA”, WITH THE CITY OF WILLIAMSPORT AND UPMC, SUNDAY, JULY 4th, IN THE AREA OF THE HAMPTON INN WILLIAMSPORT-DOWNTOWN JUST OFF I-180 IN WILLIAMSPORT.

FREE ENTERTAINMENT, WITH LOTS OF FOOD AND CRAFT VENDORS, PLUS THE AREAS BIGGEST AND BEST FIREWORKS SHOW! THE WORLD’S LARGEST AMERICAN FLAG WILL BE RAISED AT 10AM BY TWO ALLISON CRANES. BANDS START AT 3 WITH FIREWORKS AROUND 9:40!

2021 STAGE ENTERTAINMENT (in no particular order)

The Uptown Music Collective

Mums the Word

Trip the Light

Last Rebels

Leo & KG with Family Tradition

SOUND PROVIDED BY BLAST ENTERTAINMENT

K&S MUSIC PROVIDED THE DRUM SET AND BASS AMP

THE MARKET STREET BRIDGE WILL BE CLOSED TO VEHICLE AND PEDESTRIAN TRAFFIC ON JULY 4TH FROM 8:00PM TIL APPROXIMATELY 10:30PM.

ALSO, THE “RIVER WALK” WILL BE CLOSED FROM 7:30AM FROM JULY 4TH THROUGH 7:30AM JULY 5TH FROM COMMERCE PARK TO MAYNARD STREET ON THE WILLIAMSPORT SIDE OF THE RIVER AND RESTRICTIONS WILL BE IN PLACE ON THE SOUTH WILLIAMSPORT SIDE OF THE RIVER AS WELL DUE TO SAFETY CONCERNS. ALSO, THE PA FISH & GAME COMMISSION WILL KEEP ALL CRAFT OFF THE RIVER 1,000 FEET EAST & WEST OF THE MARKET STREET BRIDGE.

HANDICAP PARKING IS IN THE FIRST FLOOR OF THE PARKING DECK ON 3RD AND CHURCH STREETS. RIVER VALLEY TRANSIT WILL OFFER FREE BUS RIDES FROM ALL CITY PARKING LOTS TO THE FIREWORKS AREA FROM 6PM THROUGH 10PM WITH STOPS EVERY 10 MINUTES,  AT THESE LOCATIONS:

MULBERRY STREET AND EDWIN STREET

MULBERRY STREET AND WASHINGTON BLVD

MARKET STREET AND EDWIN STREET

FIFTH STREET PARKING LOT

HEPBURN STREET PARKING LOT

COURT STREET AND PINE STREET

THERE IS ABSOLUTELY NO PARKING OR STOPPING ON OR AROUND ANY HIGHWAY OR ROAD DURING THE FIREWORKS.  NO PETS, TENTS, BIKES OR PRIVATE FIREWORKS WILL BE ALLOWED IN THE AREA OF THE HAMPTON INN WILLIAMSPORT-DOWNTOWN.

THANK YOU TO OUR WONDERFUL SPONSORS!

FIREWORKS SPONSORS:

… more »

BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS JUNE 8, 2021

WILLIAMSPORT SOAP BOX DERBY

Eight “celebrity” racers representing the events’ sponsors will take a downhill dive as they race their own scaled-up go-carts at the Williamsport Soap Box Derby Race on Saturday. According to the SUN Gazette, the celebrity participants include;  John Sanders, city engineer; Tanya Weber, a member of the Kiwanis Club of Williamsport; Jason Fink, president and CEO of the Williamsport/Lycoming Chamber of Commerce, and  Blaise Alexander Dealership Vice President Adam Alexander. Come cheer on your favorite racer on Saturday from 12:30 to 7pm.

LAWSUITS AGAINST CITY

Former police Lt Fred L Miller IV of Clinton County has joined a currently working city police lieutenant against Mayor Derek Slaughter, the city of Williamsport and former Mayor Gabriel J. Campana.   Miller and Lt Steven Helm have similar claims regarding claims of being overlooked for promotions, according to papers in U.S. Middle District Court. Miller, who was awarded $35,000 in the prior settlement, is seeking unspecified damages in excess of $50,000 contending violations of his free speech rights. According to SUN Gazette, the case is before U.S. Middle District Judge Matthew W. Brann.

SEVEN-FIELD COMPLEX ONE STEP CLOSER

The city planning commission extended a positive recommendation yesterday, for the development plan involving a seven-field sports complex. A vote from City Council is needed before construction can officially begin by Williamsport Baseball Inc., a land-holding entity created by the Williamsport/Lycoming County Chamber of Commerce. According to a media outlet, Williamsport Baseball Inc. was recipient of a $2 million state Redevelopment Assistance Capital Program grant and a Greenways Trails and Recreation grant to get the project funding rolling.

STARTUP CHALLENGE

Pennsylvania State System’s Startup Challenge, a competition where students present innovative business ideas for a prize of upwards of $10,000. Lock Haven University’s team claimed sixth place in the five-minute pitch presentation category for their Starlight Café project and received a prize of $500. According to northcentralpa.com, the Starlight Café would be the first café in Lock Haven to open exclusively at night.

CRACK SALES LANDS WILLIAMSPORT MAN IN JAIL

Timothy James Harman, 30, of Williamsport was charged with multiple felonies after police said he sold crack to an undercover agent. Officers said Harman sold crack to a detective three times in March of this year. According to northcentralpa.com, that included twice on the same day. Harman is being held at the Lycoming County Prison in Lieu of $75,000 monetary bail.

MULTIPLE METH SALES EQUAL MULTIPLE FELONIES

A Montoursville woman will face charges regarding the sale of methamphetamine to a confidential informant. State Police in Montoursville reported a CI bought 1.96 grams of methamphetamine from Heather Crispin, 46, in Loyalsock. According northcentralpa.com, a second buy for 2.96 grams of methamphetamine and a third sale of  3.65 grams of methamphetamine resulted in Crispin charged with multiple felonies. She was confined to the Lycoming County Prison in lieu of $25,000 monetary bail. A preliminary hearing is scheduled for June 14.

NO AGREEMENT REACHED IN THE SHIKELLAMY SCHOOL DISTRICT

Because the Shikellamy School Board and members of the educational support professionals association could not strike a deal last night,  63 employees could be furloughed before the end of the month. According to the Daily Item, Superintendent Jason Bendle said following the meeting that no deal was made and no upcoming dates are scheduled for another negotiating session. All parties refused to comment following the meeting, however it seems that financial issues are the core of the negotiation failure.

BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS JUNE 7, 2021

 

EDGEWOOD BRIDGE 

DuBoistown Borough Council discussed Edgewood Bridge. The Edgewood Bridge in the borough had ranked a five on the county’s scale for the bridge bundling project; meaning it was not eligible for repair or replacement. After speaking to county commissions and the county planning commission, Baker said there may be funding opportunities to pre-emptively repair the bridge to prevent the borough from paying additional costs to fix it once it falls down to a four ranking. According to SUN Gazette, Borough Council unanimously adopted the county’s hazard mitigation plan.

DRUG CHARGES AND MISSED HEARING LANDS WOMAN IN JAIL

On May 25,  Brianna Rose Follmer failed to show up for her scheduled hearing on drug charges, as she was arrested for selling prescription pills and a heroin to a confidential informant twice. Follmer was charged with multiple felonies and misdemeanors. Court records show Follmer was placed into confinement on June 2. According to a media outlet, she is being held on $15,000 monetary bail at the Lycoming County Prison with a preliminary hearing scheduled for June 7 with Judge Gary A. Whiteman.

DRUG CHARGES FOR FENTANYL SALES

A Williamsport woman is accused of selling fentanyl to confidential informants and undercover agents on four separate occasions from 816 Poplar Street in the city. Heather Lorraine Stoner, 36, of Williamsport is accused of selling a total of 23 fentanyl pills on four separate occasions. According to northcentralpa.com, Stoner was charged with multiple felonies and misdemeanors and, a she was unable to post $25,000 monetary bail, she is being held at the Lycoming County prison awaiting her preliminary hearing with Judge Christian J. Frey on June 8.

GOV TOM WOLF AND THE MINIMUM WAGE

Dispelling the harmful stereotype that hardworking and experienced adults will not benefit from a minimum wage increase, Jennifer Berrier, acting secretary of the Department of Labor & Industry, joined Gov. Tom Wolf’s proposal to raise the minimum wage to $12 an hour with a pathway to $15 by 2027 will benefit working families, directly raise incomes for more than 1.1 million workers and add $4.4 billion to the state’s economy. About 300,000 of these workers are age 40 or older.

HEARING CONTINUED

Tuesday’s scheduled preliminary hearing for Myrle Miller, charged in the poisoning death of her late husband, John W. Nichols, has been continued, according to the Daily Item.  A new date and time hasn’t been updated on Miller’s online docket sheet. Miller, 76, of Winfield, was to appear before Mifflinburg District Judge Jeffrey Mensch at the Union County Courthouse. She’s charged by state police with first-degree murder, insurance fraud, theft by deception, forgery, perjury and dealing in proceeds of unlawful dealings. She’s held without bail at Northumberland County Jail in Coal Township.

HEARINGS FOR INTEGRATION

Pennsylvania’s State System of Higher Education is hosting four public hearings on Wednesday and Thursday this week to review the proposed integration of six universities into two institutions. The virtual hearings are part of what the state system calls “a transparent, consultative process outlined in state law that has guided the system toward its goal of expanding student opportunities through integrations.” The proposed plans would create two combinations of three co-equal campuses: California-Clarion-Edinboro universities in the western region and Bloomsburg-Lock Haven-Mansfield in the northeast. Board chair Cindy Shapira said in a recent release. “The hearings are not only part of the process outlined in state law, they are also the right thing to do because these efforts are in support of public higher education in the Commonwealth.” The Northeastern hearings are  June 10 at 8 am and 430 pm. The hearings live on YouTube, participation through ZOOM.

POKER RUN FOR AN 8 YEAR OLD BOY

A poker run, Chinese auction, food sale and ride was held on Sunday at the Southside Fire Company in Riverside by the Just Us Few Motorcycle Club to raise  money for  a young 8 year old boy and his family. President Dave Rudon explains.

The successful event raised funds for the family, and although the club did not report the amount raised, they surpassed goals and look forward to helping more in the near future.

ODYSSEY OF THE MIND TEAMS AND FUNDING

The Williamsport area school district education foundation granted $6,000 to the district’s odyssey of the mind teams headed to the world finals, June 11,  in Orlando, florida. Two contending teams from the district competed in state competition in April, representing Curtin Intermediate School and securing their spot in the finals. This will be the seventh year WASD teams have competed in the World Finals.

2001 LITTLE LEAGUE  PHOTO CONTEST

The 2021 Little League Photo Contest will begin on Sunday and last through 9 p.m. on August 1 as fans and players celebrate the 82nd anniversary of the first little league game on June 6. Little League Baseball and Softball is played in approximately 6,500 communities across more than 80 countries around the world. No matter the language, the same core mission is shared. Little League believes in the power of youth baseball and softball to teach life lessons that build stronger individuals and communities. Help Little League tell the next chapter of “One Team. One Little League.” with photos that represent how your team, your league, your community comes together to be a part of the epic story of Little League!Those interested in submitting their photos for this year’s contest can visit the little league website for rules and details.

 

 

 

 

PROWLING AT NIGHT CHARGES IN LEWISBURG

A Milton man was charged for allegedly peeping into windows of female students at Bucknell University’s off campus housing on S. Seventh Street during the evening hours of May 16 and 17.  According to Buffalo Valley Regional Police, they found Brandon Miller, 35, lurking in the trees along the side of 30-32 S. Seventh Street, shortly before midnight on May 17.   Northcentralpa.com reports Miller faces several misdemeanor charges of loitering and prowling at night and his preliminary hearing is set for June 24 at the office of District Judge Jeffrey A. Rowe.

FIREARM VIOLATION

A Williamsport man was charged with a felony after authorities discovered he rented two firearms from the National Range and Armory on April 25. Montoursville State Police report, Akeem Montez Hall, 27, of Williamsport rented a functioning semi-automatic handgun and semi-automatic rifle. Due to a previous conviction, Hall is not permitted to possess a firearm, according to northcentralpa.com. His preliminary hearing is scheduled with  Judge Aaron BEAK LEE (Biichle) and Hall is being held at the Lycoming County Prison in lieu of $85,000 monetary bail.

JURY DECIDING THE FATE OF A CANTON MAN

A Lycoming County jury heard arguments from prosecutors as well as defense attorneys for a Canton man regarding his alleged sexual abuse of a minor before deliberating last evening. Harris’ case first came to the attention of the Pennsylvania State Police through a cyber tip from a Facebook moderation team in May of 2019, which informed them of the Messenger conversations Harris allegedly had with multiple minors. According to SUN Gazette, Michael Harris, 31, faces 16 counts related to alleged sexual abuse of a female minor.

GROWING GREENER GRANT

The Lycoming County Water and Sewer Authority at its recent meeting approved an $80,000 Growing Greener Grant for stormwater infrastructure upgrades in South Williamsport.The grant is addressing the stormwater basin located behind the CVS store along West Southern Avenue, according to SUN Gazette. The project is part of meeting compliance under the Chesapeake Bay pollution reduction guidelines.Construction of the project is expected to begin next year.

LIMESTONE WATER SYSTEM 

The Lycoming County Water and Sewer Authority at its recent meeting approved professional engineering services for the Limestone Water System which serves customers in the communities of Oval and Oriole. The state Department of Environmental Protection program will address capital improvements. According to Sun Gazette, the service comes at no cost to the Authority and will include preparation of construction bids.

CHILD ENDANGERMENT

A Mifflinburg man is facing assault charges after a child told police she was being abused.  According to the police affidavit, Brandon Wilson, 31, has choked her and dragged her up the stairs by her hair.  A witness said she has also observed Wilson striking the victim on several occasions, including with a belt. According to a media outlet, Wilson is being charged with harassment, strangulation, assault and endangering the welfare of a child.

BILLTOWN BLUES FESTIVAL

The 31st annual Billtown Blues Festival will be coming next week with “world-class” blues music, musicians, food and all-around experience according to Bonnie Tallman, event producer. The stage will be set and ready for performers from Friday, June 11 through Sunday June 13 at the Lycoming County Fairgrounds. Tickets are only available for purchase through the Billtown Blues Association website. There are options for one day tickets as well as a bundle that allows you all three days.

PRESIDENTIAL SEARCH COMMITTEE

Pennsylvania College of Technology has appointed the Presidential Search Committee charged with the selection of a successor to longtime President Davie Jane Gilmour, who announced recently she will retire next year. The 17-member Presidential Search Committee consists of four members of the Penn College Board of Directors, seven faculty members, five administrators and one student. Their job is to gather input from faculty, staff, students, alumni, and local community leaders to make the process as transparent and inclusive as possible to attract the strongest pool of candidates.

200 ROBOTIC-ASSISTED PEDIATRIC SPINE SURGERIES IN A PENNSYLVANIA HOSPITAL

As of May 2021, Geisinger’s Dr Meagen Fernandez has performed more than 200 robotic-assisted pediatric spine surgeries at the Pennsylvania-based Geisinger Musculoskeletal Institute. It is the only pediatric hospital in Pennsylvania using robotic assisted technology for pediatric spine surgery. Dr. Fernandez specializes in treating pediatric sports injuries, ACL reconstruction, fractures and traumatic injuries, and scoliosis. For her pediatric spine surgeries, she uses the Medtronic Renaissance™ system, the first robotic spine assist technology used in Pennsylvania to treat pediatric patients with scoliosis that requires surgery. Renaissance™ is designed to improve the safety and accuracy of implant placement in spine surgery.

CUTTERS JOB FAIR

The Williamsport Crosscutters are looking for energetic, motivated individuals to fill part-time seasonal positions in the Food and Beverage Department at Historic Bowman Field for the 2021 Season. Interested individuals must apply in-person at the Cutters Job Fair to be held Wednesday, June 9 from 4-6pm at Muncy Bank Ballpark at Historic Bowman Field, 1700 W. Fourth St, Williamsport.

 

 

 

 

 

 

BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS JUNE 3, 2021

TRAFFIC STOP DRIVER COMBATIVE 

On May 18, a white Ford F250 was tailgating another vehicle in the 1700 block of West Fourth Street, when it was observed by Williamsport police, who stopped it in the 100 block of West Fourth Street. The driver, identified as Daniel Scott  Bozochovic, Williamsport, reportedly became combative, as he was threatening pollice, kicking and spitting in their faces. According to northcentralpa.com, he was charged with multiple misdemeanors and is currently being held at the Lycoming County Prison in lieu of $150,000 monetary bail on unrelated charges.

FELONY CRIMINAL TRESPASS

A Williamsport man climbed through a bedroom window of an apartment on Elm Street and was charged with third-degree felony criminal trespass. Inside, Tramane Wali Moore, 32, of Williamsport grabbed a woman by the hair and dragged her through her apartment. He was confronted by another person on the scene and fled. According to  northcentralpa.com, Moore was held on $15,000 monetary bail and his preliminary hearing is scheduled for  today.

NARCOTICS COLLABORATION

The Lycoming County Narcotics Enforcement Unit, in collaboration with personnel from the Pennsylvania State Police, and multiple organizations from Lycoming County, participated in a round up to locate individuals with felony drug warrants. A total of 48 felony drug warrants were recently filed by Narcotics Enforcement Detectives. This collaborative operation resulted in the service of approximately twenty felony warrants and four residential search warrants. By late yesterday afternoon, 21 people had been arrested, many of them were incarcerated in the Lycoming County Prison.

GLADE RUN RETAINING WALL CONCERNS

Earlier this week, the Muncy Borough Council held a short-agenda meeting. Council discussed concerns over the Glade Run retaining wall. According to Borough Council President, Ed Feigles, the concrete wall is shifting away from the bank, which is allowing water to erode the ground. As the process continues, the residence, near the area, will have its basement and foundation exposed. However, the price tag for a new precast wall would be approximately $30,000. The conversation is set to continue at the next meeting, July 15th at 7 p.m. in the upstairs meeting room of the Muncy Volunteer Fire Company.

CAMERAS FOR POLICE USE CONSIDERED IN MUNCY BOROUGH

Earlier this week, the Muncy Borough Council held a short-agenda meeting. James Dorman, Muncy Borough Police, reported he has begun the process of contact companies to deliver quotes on a camera system around the borough park, but will have more specific updates in the future. Other localities have also begun using cameras for police use. The conversation is set to continue at the next meeting, July 15th at 7 p.m. in the upstairs meeting room of the Muncy Volunteer Fire Company.

POOLS READY TO OPEN

Local residents will soon be able to enjoy a dip in the pool. Loyalsock Community Pool is set to open full time on June 11. However, it will be open Saturday and Sunday for public swim, according to SUN Gazette.  Muncy pool is set to tentatively open June 16  and, in Jersey Shore, the Community Pool is ready to open on Saturday.

TELLY AWARD TO THE PENNSYLVANIA COLLEGE OF TECHNOLOGY

A Pennsylvania College of Technology online video devised to inspire and give thanks during the COVID-19 pandemic has earned a 2021 Telly Award, the world’s largest honor for video and television content across all screens. The 42nd annual awards recognized the video “Penn College Wildcats give thanks for UMPC Field” with a Bronze Telly in the  Non-Broadcast Motivational category.  Other Telly recipients in the grouping included The Michael J Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research and The Humane Society of the United States. The Telly Awards receive over 12,000 submissions from all 50 states and five continents. Among the 2021 Telly winners are ESPN, The Walt Disney Co.,  ViacomCBS, Nickelodeon, Netflix, Microsoft, Adobe and BBC Global News.

PENN STATE READY TO FILL BEAVER STADIUM

Penn State Athletics announced a return to full capacity in Beaver Stadium and other athletics venues for the 2021-2022 academic year, based on the June 1 Governor’s updated guidance lifting all COVID mitigation orders. “We are excited to welcome our 107K strong back in Beaver Stadium and full capacity at our other athletics venues this fall with the adjustments in university, local, state and CDC guidance,” said Vice President for Intercollegiate Athletics Sandy Barbour. Football season ticket holders will be notified via email beginning Tuesday, June 8 that the 2021 football season ticket and non-refundable seat contribution invoices are available via Account Manager. Details of the Nittany Lion Club single-game ticket presale, public single-game and student ticket sale will be released in the coming weeks.

 

 

AGGRAVATED ASSAULT

Jade Michael Brennan was charged with 2 counts of aggravated assault after he became involved in an argument wijth another person over a vehicle. During the argument Brennan pulled out a knife and threatened the individual before throwing at him. Brennan then threw a rock at the residence of the victim, damaging a window. He fled on foot but was later apprehended  by officers of the Lock Haven Police Department. Brennan was remanded to the Clinton County Correctional Facility after he could not post bail.

FATAL ACCIDENT

A fatal early morning crash claimed the lives of two young residents. According to State Police in Montoursville, the crash occurred on the Miller Run Bridge on East Third Street in Loyalsock Township just before 2 a.m. on Monday. Investigators have released the identities of the driver, Sierra Jacobs, 24, and the passenger, Travis Mosteller, 24. According to the Lycoming County Coroner’s Office, a ruling on the cause of death was “multiple blunt force trauma and burns.” According to police, the vehicle was traveling east and the driver was unable to negotiate the right curve, by under-compensating, thereby causing the vehicle to leave its lane of travel and jump the sidewalk. The vehicle struck the bridge abutment and fell approximately 12 feet to the creek bed. Police report wet roads and alcohol were possible contributing factors.

HELMET GIVEAWAY WITH EVANGELICAL COMMUNITY  HOSPITAL

Evangelical Community Health and Wellness wants kids and parents to understand the importance of wearing a helmet while biking. Today from 4 – 6 p.m., a free bike helmet giveaway event for children 12 and under is at The Miller Center for Recreation and Wellness outdoor play area, 120 Hardwood Drive, Lewisburg and is sponsored by the Kiwanis Club of Buffalo Valley in Lewisburg, Inc, according to northcentralpa.com. If your helmet is more than five years old, or has sustained a major impact,  you should consider attending. For more information, call Evangelical Community Health and Wellness at (570) 768-3200.

LYCOMING COUNTY CONTROLLER KRISTA ROGERS ADDITIONAL LAWYERS

Lycoming County Controller Krista Rogers will now have more lawyers in her case following action by commissioners at their meeting. Following two days of testimony, Potter County Senior Judge John Leete on May 17 made no ruling, but instead, gave attorneys 20 days to submit post-hearing briefs. Commissioners took legal action against Rogers for not handing over functions from her office to the budget and finance department. Rogers has contended commissioners illegally directed such action and of engaging in a power grab. Commissioners indicated they had no choice but to approve funding for Rogers’ request for additional legal counsel. Attorneys from Hummel, Lewis & Smith, LLP, Bloomsburg, will be paid $150 per hour with paralegals from the firm receiving $125 per hour. Commissioner Scott Metzger indicated a decision in the case should be forthcoming before the end of this month. in addition, Mya Toon, chief procurement officer, reported that the Lycoming County is seeking bids for emergency repairs to a streambank stabilization project along Muncy Creek in Hughesville. Work on the project is set for this summer.

STATE POLICE STATS FROM HOLIDAY WEEKEND

Pennsylvania State Police report 8 people were killed in memorial day holiday crashes investigated by state police. In fact the state police investigated 844 traffic crashes during the four day memorial day holiday driving period from may 28 through may 31. Alcohol was a factor in 63 of the crashes. Troopers made 596 arrests for driving under the influence,  issued 9,624 speeding citations and cited 1,025 for not wearing seat belts and 144 for not securing children in safety seats.

BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS JUNE 1, 2021

CHARGES FILED IN SHOTS FIRED INCIDENT

Multiple rounds were fired into the side of a home with two people inside, according to  the Lycoming County Narcotics Enforcement Unit . Police report,  Kiam L. Alford, had a firearm in his hand when he walked onto the front porch of a home in the 1100 block of Isabella St. around 2:06 a.m. on May 22. ALFORD attempted to gain entry through the front door and when he couldn’t get inside; he walked around to the side and began firing multiple rounds into the house. According to northcentralpa.com., the incident was recorded on a home security camera.  Alford is charged with multiple felonies.

FATAL ACCIDENT

Two people were killed in a crash in Loyalsock Township just before 2 a.m. yesterday. Investigators are attempting to identify the man and woman who were killed at the bridge over Miller Run, according to Lycoming County Chief Deputy Coroner Jerold Ross. Investigators said that the vehicle struck the bridge wall, went through railings and burst into flames before dropping down a 10 foot embankment, according to SUN Gazette.  A hazardous materials team responded from Winfield in Union County to prevent contaminated soil from reaching the nearby Miller Run. Anyone who saw the crash or who might have been in the vehicle is asked to contact state police or the coroner.

DISTRICT 4 SOFTBALL GAMES RESCHEDULED

District 4 has postponed all of its softball playoff games scheduled for yesterday in Williamsport due to poor field conditions. They will now be played Tuesday at Elm Park in Williamsport and the Frantz & Moser Complex in Turbotville. The moves impact four Valley teams: Line Mountain, East Juniata, Lewisburg and Shamokin. All tickets purchased for the games will be honored on Tuesday. The following games have been rescheduled:

Class A: Elm Park, Field 3; Canton vs. Northeast Bradford, 2 p.m.; Millville vs. Montgomery, 2 p.m.

Class 2A: Elm Park, Field 2: Muncy vs. Line Mountain, 2 p.m.; East Juniata vs. Wyalusing, 3:30 p.m.

Class 3A: Frantz & Moser Complex, Main Field: Bloomsburg vs. Loyalsock, 3 p.m.; Lewisburg vs. Central Columbia, 5 p.m.

Class 4A: Elm Park, Field 1: Athens vs. Shamokin, 1 p.m.

Class 6A: Elm Park, Field, 1: Williamsport vs. Hazleton, 4:30 p.m.

GOVERNOR  TOM WOLF REMINDING PENNSYLVANIANS OF THE MASK MANDATE

Gov. Wolf and his administration are reminding all Pennsylvanians that businesses, events, and venues are allowed to return to 100% capacity.  He also wants Pa. residents to remember that it does not mean the end to the mask mandate. The current order requiring masks for unvaccinated and partially vaccinated people will stay in place until June 28, or when 70% of Pa. is fully vaccinated, whichever happens first.

JERSEY SHORE’S STAFF SGT LOGAN ENGEL SCORES 600 IN ARMY COMBAT FITNESS TEST

A Jersey Shore man is the 8th person in United States Army history to obtain a perfect score of 600 in the Army Combat Fitness Test at Fort Carson, Colorado, according to SUN Gazette.  Staff Sgt Logan Engel’s score sends him to the ultimate competition June 20th at Fort Bragg, North Carolina where he is competing for the title of Noncommissioned Officer of the Year.

VERIZON’S CELLULAR TOWER APPROVED IN LOYALSOCK TOWNSHIP

In an attempt to remedy dropped calls and poor cell reception, users of Verizon Wireless will have much to talk about. Loyalsock Township Supervisors approved a 128 foot tall tower for cellular service to be constructed outside of Loyalsock Township School District, 1801 Northway Road. Supervisors have granted a conditional use permit for construction and installation of the communication facility, according to a media outlet.

LOCAL JUNIOR GOLFER GOING TO DISNEY

A 9-year-old junior golfer from South Williamsport recently competed in the Under Armor Junior Tour. Logan McGinn’s  season was successful and he won two tournaments, runner up and 3 top five finishes to secure the top spot in the Baltimore region and his is qualified for the Under Armor National Championship at Disney World.  He is currently ranked ninth in the country in the 9-11 age group and expects to play several top tournaments in Alabama, Florida and North Carolina this summer.

JUNE IS PRIDE MONTH IN SUNBURY

Across the United States, the month of June is known as “Pride Month,” a time to celebrate and affirm the LGBTQ+ community. This year, the City of Sunbury will officially recognize June as Pride Month by virtue of a city-wide proclamation.  The proclamation was issued by Kurt Karlovich, Mayor of the City of Sunbury, on May 24 is a demonstration of support and recognition of the LGBTQ+ community. The purpose of a proclamation is “to honor, celebrate or create awareness of an organization, event or significant issue that contributes to the betterment of our community,” according to the City’s definition.  According to northcentralpa.com, the City of Sunbury’s official proclamation marks a significant and symbolic moment for members of the LGBTQ+ community in the local area.

COVID-19 CASE NUMBERS 

On the same day Pennsylvania lifted most of its coronavirus mitigation rules the state Department of Health (DOH) reported 315 new infections of COVID-19 and the seven-day rolling average dropped below 1,000 cases for the first time since Oct. 6. Of the 315 new cases, five were in Susquehanna Valley counties — three in Northumberland County and one each in Montour and Union,4 in  Lycoming Co, 0 in Clinton Co, 2 in Columbia and 1 in Montour County.

COLUMBIA  AND MONTOUR COUNTIES OFFER INCENTIVE FOR VACCINATIONS 

A Columbia County Judge issued a court order recently with a COVID-19 vaccine incentive for non-violent criminals in Columbia and Montour counties. According  a media outlet, Judge Thomas James Jr. issued an order; if non-violent criminals on probation or parole to receive the vaccine, their supervision time could be reduced by up to three months. By getting vaccinated, the length of someone’s sentence could also be shortened, or even community service hours could be lifted. A Columbia County Court Administrator reports, thus reducing supervision time which could also save people money, as some pay more than $100 in court supervision fees.

 

 

 

 

BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS MAY 31, 2021

ENDANGERING THE WELFARE OF CHILDREN

A Williamsport woman recently was sentenced in Lycoming County Court for drug use near children. Williamsport Police accuse Cayleigh M. Jean of methamphetamines use with a three year old child present on Jan. 15. Jean was sentenced on May 27 by Lycoming County Common Pleas Judge  Marc Lovecchio and  after pleading guilty to a misdemeanor count of endangering the welfare of children Jean was  sentenced to 24 months of probation, according to northcentralpa.com.

CRIMINAL MISCHIEF IN UNION TOWNSHIP, UNION COUNTY

State police at Milton are investigating a criminal mischief incident inside a garage on George Lane in Union Township, Union County, causing upwards of $4,000 damage. Items were found to be intentionally broken or damaged, included a 2004 Ford, tools, vehicle detailing supplies, a propane heater, stereo equipment, weightlifting equipment, a large mirror, a marble table top, motorcycle racing helmet, pictures and a trophy. Anyone with information is asked to contact the State Police at Milton, according to an online media outlet.

A DAY OF ACTION FOR UNITED WAY OF COLUMBIA AND MONTOUR COUNTIES

The United Way of Columbia and Montour Counties is launching a Day of Action. On and around June 21, volunteers will start an annual tradition of traveling around Columbia and Montour Counties to help local nonprofits in their areas of need and to give local residents opportunities to make a difference in their community. United Way reached out to their partner agencies to see where they needed support, and seven nonprofits responded with twelve different projects they are looking to complete.Anyone interested  in participating in United Way’s Day of Action can sign-up on the United Way’s website, according to SUN Gazette. The Day of Action is set to run starting Saturday, June 19, 2021, through Monday, June 21, 2021.

SPRAYING FOR LANTERNFLIES

Pennsylvania has started spraying insecticide on spotted lanternflies, a new strategy that state officials are using in an attempt to slow the spread of the invasive pest.  Crews using backpack sprayers and truck-mounted spray equipment are spraying the bugs along railways, interstates and other transportation rights-of-way, the state Department of Agriculture reported Friday. He also went on to say the “Spotted Lanternflies threaten our quality of life outdoors and destroy valuable products that feed our economy and we are working diligently and strategically to control this pest in ways that are safe for the people, pollinators, plants and animals that share the environment it threatens.Spraying is underway in southeastern and south-central PA,  and thirty-four of Pennsylvania’s 67 counties are now under quarantine, requiring businesses that move products, vehicles and other items in and out of the quarantine zone to obtain a permit, according to an online media source.

NEW BUILDING NAMED FOR A LONGTIME TRUSTEE AT BUCKNELL UNIVERSITY

At Bucknell University, Holmes Hall will be the new home for the Freeman College of Management and the Department of Art and Art History,  named for Trustee Steve Holmes and his wife, Bonnie, who both graduated in 1979. Bucknell recognizes the significant commitments by the Holmes couple, according to SUN Gazette.  The almost 80-thousand square foot facility is set to be equipped with labs, art and design studios, and teaching spaces.  Steve Holmes says he believes in strengthening opportunities for students to explore interest across different majors as he was able to do when he was a student.

VEHICLE ACCIDENT ON EAST 3RD STREET REMAINS UNDER INVESTIGATION

A vehicle accident occurred this morning, reported with people trapped and fire, on East Third Street and Northway Road in Loyalsock Township. A vehicle reportidly went over the embankment, off the bridge at Miller’s Run, in the area of the 1600 block of East Third Street. Pennsylvania State Police Forensics and Accident Reconstruction officers were on the scene. They report the accident remains under investigation.

GOLD STAR MONUMENT FOR VETERANS MEMORIAL PARK IN  WILLIAMSPORT

A Gold Star monument, honoring military families, from the region, is set to be unveiled in September at Veterans Memorial Park in Williamsport. The Lycoming County event, the date of which is being finalized, will be the dedication of what is to be called the Central Pennsylvania Gold Star Memorial, said John Markley, secretary of the Veterans Memorial Park Commission.Dennis Norman, a Marine Corps veteran from the Jersey Shore area, first presented the memorial concept, estimated to cost $75,000 and it was paid for through donations and a brick marker fundraiser, Markley said.

LOST FISHERMAN FOUND

Rescue crews were called shortly before 5 p.m., yesterday,  for a report of a lost fisherman in rural Brown Township. The state Department of Conservation and Natural Resources, Bureau of Forestry and local fire departments and a K9 search team met at the 3000 block of Slate Run Road at a parking area to begin the  search. He was found, unharmed around 620pm.

SOFTBALL PLAYOFFS MOVED TO TODAY

District 4 has moved all of its softball playoff games scheduled for today in Williamsport  because of heavy rains expected spread across the state over the weekend.

The moves impact four Valley teams: Line Mountain, East Juniata, Lewisburg and Shamokin.

The district announced all seven softball games will now be played at Elm Park.

Today’s softball schedule now looks like this:

Class A: Millville vs. Montgomery, noon, on field 3

Class A: Canton vs. Northeast Bradford, 2 p.m. on field 3

Class AA: East Juniata vs. Wyalusing, noon, on field 2

Class AA: Muncy vs. Line Mountain, 2 p.m., on field 2

Class AAA: Lewisburg vs. Central Columbia, noon, on field 1

Class AAA- Bloomsburg vs. Loyalsock, 2 p.m., on field 1

Class AAAA- Athens vs. Shamokin, 4 p.m., on field 1

 

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