BACKYARD BROADCASTING MAY 27, 2021

SHOTS FIRED 

A Williamsport man threatened another with a firearm, yesterday morning in the 2200 block of Lincoln Street in the Newberry section of Williamsport. According to Williamsport Police, Bryce Zimmerman, faces multiple felonies when he verbally threatened a male before leaving and returning with a shotgun. He proceeded to threaten the male with the shotgun before firing a round into the ground, inches from the male’s feet.  Zimmerman was taken into custody, he was video arraigned before Magisterial District Judge Christian Frey and detained at the Lycoming County Prison in lieu of $200,000 bail.

MISREPRESENTATION ON VOTING BALLOT

A Hughesville man allegedly lied about his address and managed to vote in Williamsport’s second precinct election last fall.  Marc Schefsky incorrectly entered his address on the election ballot, according to Det Simpler of the DA’s Office. Schefsky was arraigned by District Judge Aaron Beak Lee on May 4 and waived his preliminary hearing. A formal arraignment is scheduled for June 7 before Lycoming County Judge Marc Lovecchio.

STATEMENT FROM MAYOR DEREK SLAUGHTER

Mayor Derek Slaughter issued a statement yesterday, regarding the three shootings in the city over the past five days.  “The recent shootings, while unsettling, do not necessarily pose a significant threat to our community at large. These shootings appear to be isolated incidents. However, the responsibility lies with each citizen to say something if you see something. We all need work together to ensure a safe city.”

JAIL TIME TO BEGIN IN JULY FOR EX-PSU PRESIDENT

On Wednesday, a Judge upheld a sentence issued four years ago in saying the former Penn State president who was forced out as the school’s top administrator will soon have to report to jail. Graham Spanier was ordered to begin serving at least two months at the county jail several miles from the Penn State campus on July 9 — followed by two months of house arrest on electronic monitoring — for a single misdemeanor conviction of endangering the welfare of children. Spanier, 72, did not testify at his trial, but spoke at sentencing, telling the judge in a Harrisburg courtroom, that he regretted not intervening more forcefully.

LEASE ISSUES CONTINUE TO PLAGUE THE COMMUNITY THEATRE LEAGUE

A lease signed in 2016 between the Community Theatre League and River Valley Transit for use of the third floor of Trade and Transit Centre I  was never forwarded to City Council, even though the group was  paying rent for nearly five years. According to Mayor Slaughter, because the lease did not make it to the form of a resolution for council to vote on and is therefore unofficial the theater group cannot legally occupy the third floor of the transit building, at the corner of West Third and Pine streets, until a formal investigation by the state Department of Transportation and Federal Transit Administration is completed, according to SUN Gazette.

FOOT PURSUIT IN SNYDER COUNTY

A Mount Pleasant Mills man led police on a foot chase in Snyder County. State police in Selinsgrove report Robert Eichman was pulled over on Route 104 in Franklin Township for a traffic violation on May 19. According to police, Eichman stopped his car, got out and fled on foot. He was taken into custody after a short run. Charges were filed in District Court and he was remanded to the Snyder County Prison on unrelated warrants, according to a media outlet.

PA DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH DROPPED LEGAL ACTION AGAINST 40  RESTAURANTS

The Pennsylvania Department of Health has dropped its legal action against more than 40 restaurants that were accused of defying state orders to close indoor dining and maintain social-distancing protocols. The Health Department had filed two separate complaints alleging that restaurants were violating pandemic restrictions that Gov. Tom Wolf imposed in December , the state had sought an order to shut down in-person dining, as well as damages. Health Department spokesperson Maggi Barton said that with the pandemic in retreat, nearly all of the state’s remaining restrictions are slated to be lifted on Memorial Day. The Health Department petitioned Commonwealth Court last week to discontinue the matter, and the court granted the request on Tuesday.

BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS MAY 26, 2021

SATURDAY SHOOTING ON ISABELLA STREET

A man, a woman and a baby were inside a home in the 1100 block of Isabella Street when unknown gunmen fired multiple shots into their house early Saturday morning, according to SUN Gazette. No one was injured in the shooting that was believed to have occurred between 1 am and 2 am near Eighth Avenue and Isabella Street, neighbors told the Sun-Gazette. It was reported that two of the bullets went through the walls and into rooms on the first and second floor of the adjoining property. The investigation continues.

TUESDAY NIGHT SHOOTING ON WEST FOURTH STREET

Last night police and emergency vehicles have responded to a shooting on the 700 block of West Fourth St. in Williamsport, outside the Shamrock. According to northcentralpa.com, the windows of multiple vehicles and the Shamrock were damaged by gunfire and one victim was transported to the hospital. The investigation continues.

NEXT WILLIAMSPORT BUREAU OF POLICE CHIEF INTRODUCED BY MAYOR SLAUGHTER

Mayor Derek Slaughter announced yesterday that he elevated two police captains to serve as chief and assistant chief. Capt. Justin Snyder was chosen to become the new chief of police and Capt. Jason Bolt the new assistant chief of police following Chief Damon Hagan’s retirement, according to the Sun Gazette. Snyder brings nearly 16 years of experience and Bolt more than 17 years. The swearing-in ceremony will be held Friday, May 28th at 9:30 a.m. at City Council chambers. Chief Hagan announced his retirement Monday, stating his final day is Friday after a 22-year career with the city.

TAX INCREASE FOR THE SOUTH WILLIAMSPORT AREA SCHOOL BOARD

Although the proposed final 2021-22 budget by the South Williamsport Area School Board has an increase of .7 mills in taxes for district property owners, it also comes with a caution that rates are not final and can change before the final vote is at end of June. Also approved, an agreement with Nutrition, Inc. to oversee the district’s food service program for the upcoming school year. With waivers from the USDA, the cafeteria will operate under the Seamless Summer Option for the entire school year which means that all students qualify for free breakfast and lunch. The next board meeting will be at 7 p.m., June 7.

JERSEY SHORE AREA SCHOOL DISTRICT VOTES NOT TO RAISE TAXES     

Jersey Shore Area School District faces rising costs for budget items which elevated the budget deficit to $880,000 over the next fiscal year. District Superintendent Brian Ulmer noted that if the governor’s current plan to put a cap on cyber charter school costs were enacted the district could immediately realize approximately $300,000 in savings. According to a media outlet, the board decided by a 6-3 vote to not raise the tax rates, but to rebalance the tax rates for the two counties in the district.

FATAL MOTORCYCLE ACCIDENT IN MONTOUR COUNTY

A motorcycle crash on Old School Road, Montour County yesterday morning claimed the life of a 44-year-old Danville man. Montour County Coroner Scott Lynn says Paul Costa died of multiple blunt force injuries.

COURT DATE FOR TEENAGER CHARGED WITH HOMICIDE

A court date has been announced for the teenager charged with homicide in the shooting death of Jakob Lee Haines in Woodward Township. Brian St. John III, 19, is scheduled for his preliminary court appearance on Thursday, June 24 at the Clinton County Courthouse before Magisterial District Judge Frank Mills.St. John remains incarcerated at the Clinton County Correctional Facility, according to therecordonline.com.

CHARGES FOR ALLEGED MEMBER OF DRUG-RUNNING RING

One of several men implicated in a drug-running ring  was sentenced on May 18 in the Lycoming County Court of Common Pleas. Kalief Bradshaw, pleaded guilty to one felony count of delivery of a controlled substance and was sentenced by Lycoming County Judge Ryan M. Tira to 27 months to 60 months in state prison. Bradshaw, one of several drug runners for Akmed Green , Philadelphia, was  arrested by the Lycoming County Detectives on Dec. 28, 2018.

Sports

District 4 Class AAA Baseball

Central Columbia over Hughesville 8-4

District 4 Class AAA Softball

Lewisburg over Montoursville 9-3

District 4 Class A Softball

Millville over Bucktail 15-3 in the first round of District 4 Class A playoffs

 

BACKYARD BROADCASTING MAY 25, 2021

CITY POLICE CHIEF RETIRES

Williamsport Chief of Police Damon Hagan says he will be retiring from his position as head of the bureau and his last day is Friday.  In a press release from the Office of Mayor Derek Slaughter, Chief Hagan’s intentions were made public.  “Today, I am announcing my retirement from the Williamsport Bureau of Police, effective this Friday, May 28, 2021.”It has been my great privilege and honor to serve the City of Williamsport for the last 22 years. I truly cherish the experiences and great friendships that have resulted from this work. I want to thank all of you for the support over the years.”. Hagan earned the title of assistant chief by former mayor Gabriel Campana in December of 2018, the same time Campana named Marvin “Doc” Miller as Chief. According to northcentralpa.com, then, in his 20th year on the Williamsport Bureau of Police, the southern California native was promoted to Chief in January 2019. His replacement has not yet been announced.

CHLORINE ACCIDENT REQUIRED SPECIAL HAZARDOUS CLEANUP

It took a special hazardous material team to clean up a large amount of chlorine from the kitchen of a Muncy home in the 500 block of South Market Street last Wednesday morning. According to Muncy Area Fire Chief Scott Delany, no one was injured when chlorine exploded inside the house,  as two different brands of the chemical were being mixed together by one of the tenants. Despite the explosion, there was no fire. According to the SUN Gazette, the family was mixing pool chemicals in their home. A hazardous materials team from Northumberland County responded and cleaned up all of the chlorine.

FIREARMS CHARGE FOLLOWING TRAFFIC STOP

Tiadaghton Valley Regional Police recently seized a firearm from a driver on a traffic stop. Timothy C. James of Lock Haven, was stopped along South Route 220 in Piatt Township on May 12. According to police, James was traveling 60 mph in a 45 mph zone with a suspended license, according to northcentralpa.com.  With permission to search for possible drugs or paraphernalia, the firearm was discovered. James faces multiple charges and his bail was set at $15,000 unsecured by Lycoming County Magisterial District Judge Jerry C. Lepley on May 19.

UNEMPLOYMENT BENEFITS REQUIRE RECIPIENTS TO ACTIVELY SEARCH FOR EMPLOYMENT JULY 18

At a state house committee hearing, Jennifer Berrier, acting secretary of the Department of Labor & Industry, announced the state will again require unemployment benefit recipients to begin actively looking for work, effective  the week of July 18. Almost 750,000 Pennsylvanian’s are receiving jobless benefits through either a state or federal program, according to the Department of Labor and Industry. According to northcentralpa.com, the requirement will affect all unemployment programs, including unemployment compensation extension; Pandemic Emergency Unemployment Compensation; and the Pandemic Unemployment Assistance program, according to an online media outlet.

DANVILLE FIRE CAUSE UNKNOWN

The cause of the fire that destroyed a popular area dance studio early yesterday morning will remain undetermined, according to the Daily Item. Danville Fire Chief John Buckenberger reported that, both he and a state police fire marshal,  agreed that the three-story brick structure was  too unsafe to enter to try to find the fire’s cause. Buckenberger reported  the building is a total loss and will have to be taken down.

BUCKNELL UNIVERSITY IN-PERSON FOR FALL

Bucknell University officials announced yesterday morning all courses will be fully in-person this fall. The university reiterated the requirement that students be vaccinated against COVID-19 prior to their arrival this fall, saying barring any unforeseen pandemic developments, hybrid and remote instruction will not be offered as options. Classroom health and safety protocols will remain in place when classes resume in the fall.

CHIRP

The $145 million COVID-19 Hospitality Industry Recovery Program (CHIRP), launched by the Wolf administration, continues to successfully provide pandemic financial relief to Pennsylvania’s restaurant and hospitality industry, with applications being processed in two additional counties through CHIRP. The Wolf administration encourages businesses statewide to apply for assistance within their county. According to an online media outlet, state funding has already been provided to all 67 counties. Funding must be provided to businesses by July 15, 2021.

MONTOURSVILLE AREA SCHOOL BOARD MASK CHANGES

Last evening, the Montoursville Area School Board made changes to mask policies. Immediately,  students can  remove  masks during outdoor activities. Then, June 1,  wearing masks in the district are  voluntary unless required by a parent or guardian. Finally, the Board masks are optional for both students and faculty for the 2021-2022 school year. The meeting was not held inside the McCall Middle School, however, as masks remain  a requirement for school board meetings, the crowd of roughly 100 people moved to the tennis courts, according to northcentrapa.com.

 

BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS MAY 24, 2021

SENTENCING FOR BATH SALTS POSSESSION

A Jersey Shore man was sentenced for possessing bath salts with the intent to deliver them.  Alex Bower pleaded guilty  May 19 to one felony and two misdemeanors and  sentenced on May 19 by Lycoming County President Judge Nancy L. Butts for 20 to 49 days county jail with 49 days credit for time served. He’ll serve an aggregate three years of probation with three months of electronic monitoring.

PAVING PROJECT IN MONTOURSVILLE

Starting today, a paving project will begin on Broad Street  in Montoursville Borough, Lycoming County, which may cause some delays for drivers.  Paving is expected to be completed by mid-July 2021 and the entire project is expected to be completed by November 2021 and cost is $282,618.

2020 GRADUATION FOR LYCOMING COLLEGE

On Saturday, a group, consisting of 130-140 members of the Graduating class of 2020,  returned to the Fultz Quad of Lycoming college for an overdue commencement they never had due to the pandemic. Dr. Kent Trachte, president of the college, “You the class of 2020 have had to navigate uncharted territory. Your first year as a college graduate has been unique in modern history.” According to northcentralpa.com, the 2020 graduates celebrated the milestone one year out from finishing their college career.

JAMES V BROWN LIBRARY’S 18TH ANNUAL AUTHOR GALA

Nationally and internationally known author David Baldacci has been announced as the featured speaker at the James V. Brown Library’s 18th annual Author Gala scheduled for Oct. 6. According to the author’s website, Baldacci published his first novel, “Absolute Power,” in 1996. All together he has published 40 novels for adults and seven for younger readers. The gala is the library’s main fundraiser each year. Details about the event will be made available on the library’s website as they are finalized.

TOWER HOUSE INCIDENT ENDS IN PARTICIPANTS BANNED FROM BUCKNELL GRADUATION

A number of students, involved in the May 13th harassment of the LGBTQ+ community were banned from yesterday’s commencement at Bucknell University. University President John Bravman made the announcement yesterday in an email to students, parents and employees updating them on the investigation of the incident outside Tower House.  The Community Conduct Board will hear the cases of students identified as participants and determine appropriate sanctions in accordance with procedures in the Student Handbook.

FELONY CHARGES FOR MAN HIDING UNDER BED IN SCOTT TOWNSHIP

While searching for a wanted man, Scott Township Police found James Garrett Messner, of Altoona as he was hiding under a bed in an apartment in Scott Township.  Messner was charged with a third-degree felony of flight to avoid apprehension, trail, or punishment. He was also given two additional misdemeanor charges. No bail was listed for Messner.

DANVILLE CENTER STREET BLAZE

Volunteer fire crews from three counties remain at the scene of a Center Street fire in Danville this morning. The blaze was reported just after 3am in a three story building that are the location of four apartments and the Karen Gronsky’s Dance Studio. According to a media source, everyone made it out safely. There is no word as cause. Crews from Montour, Columbia and Northumberland County are on the scene.

 

BACKYARD BROADCASTING MAY 20, 2021

LYCOMING COUNTY JUDGE RETIRING

It’s been something he’s been thinking about for a year and now Lycoming County court of common pleas Judge Marc F. Lovecchio announced he will be retiring on January 2, 2022. Over the 12 years since his election to the bench, Judge Lovecchio has held the title of Judge of Hope. Although a lighter look at his career, Lovecchio has said he put a lot of effort into making the right calls in the right circumstances.

CRIMEWATCH FOR CITY POLICE

The Williamsport Bureau of Police and Police Chief Damon Hagan announce the launch of Crimewatch, a new website to keep residents informed and new ways to make reporting crime easier and more convenient. The WBP is the first Lycoming County based agency to go live on the CRIMEWATCH Network, according to northcentralpa.com. Residents and students are encouraged to visit WilliamsportPD.org, connect with police department social media sites, and/or download CRIMEWATCH Mobile from the Apple App Store or Android App Store.

THREATS ON EMS PERSONNEL

Pennsylvania State Police at Milton were called to a residence on Blue Springs Terrace in Derry Township, shortly before 3:30 a.m. May 4 for a report of a suspicious person. Rodney Beachel, was outside and acting erratic, according to a state police press release. Beachel asked for an ambulance then allegedly threatened EMS personnel with harm while enroute to the hospital. Charges were filed at the office of District Judge Marvin K. Shrawder in Danville.

WOMAN IDENTIFIED IN DANVILLE 

Montour County Coroner Scott Lynn identified the female discovered in a hot tub in Danville on Tuesday. June Savage, 65, was discovered in a residence on West Mahoning Street and was believed to have died on Saturday. According to Lynn, an investigation is underway to exclude foul play.

ARREST MADE IN ARMED ROBBERY OF JERSEY MIKE’S SUBS ON BASIN STREET

He was recently charged with the armed robbery of Jersey Mike’s Subs in Lewisburg and gas station in New Columbia. Now, Kenneth Robert Gough Jr has been charged with committing two robberies at Jersey Mike’s Subs on 201 Basin St in Williamsport. He was arraigned via video late Wednesday morning before District Judge Aaron Biichle on charges stemming from the March 15 and April 9 holdups, said Agent Jeremy Brown, the lead investigator. According to an online media outlet, Gough remains jailed in lieu of an additional $250,000 bail.

LOCAL SCHOOL BOARD APPROVES TAX INCREASE

The Montgomery School District School Board approved a .59 mill tax increase, which will bring the tax rate to 15.80 mills. Some of the main drivers for the increase in expenditures were the need for specialized individualized costs for students, necessities such as sign language interpreters, which were approved at the meeting. The proposed budget is now on display for 30 days before final adoption next month. The next board meeting will be at 7 p.m., June 15 at the district board room, 120 Penn St.

GRADUATION FOR THE WILLIAMSPORT AREA SCHOOL DISTRICT

The Williamsport Area School District is gearing up for an in-person traditional graduation in the stadium, with cooperation from the weather. Plan B is to move inside and a ticketed event.  Graduation is scheduled for June 10 at 7 pm.  next board meeting will be at 6 p.m. June 1 at the District Service Center, 2780 West Fourth St.

AMERICAN RESCUE ACT

Pennsylvania schools have almost $5 billion in federal funds available from the American Rescue Act to address disruptions to education caused by the pandemic. At least one-billion-dollars is specifically targeted at intensifying support for students who need extra help to get back on track. According to Pennsylvania State Education Association President Rich Askey, school districts have a great deal of flexibility in determining how to use the American Rescue Plan funds and they have until September 2024 to allocate the funding.

 

BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS MAY 19, 2021

CRIMINAL MISCHIEF

Using a sharp instrument, a Cogan Station woman caused upwards of $7,000 damage to vehicles parked in the Tivoli Tavern parking lot in Shrewsbury Township, according to State Police. In an affidavit, on May 6 around 9:30 pm, Kristina Notar, left the tavern and damaged vehicles before leaving the lot. Notar, arraigned before District Judge Christian Frey on a felony charge of criminal mischief and a misdemeanor charge of trespass by vehicle, was released on $10,000 bail.

PRIMARY NEWS: CITY COUNCIL

With all 81 precincts reporting for Lycoming County, the city council  Democrats, Councilwoman Liz Miele, followed by Councilman David Banks and  Jeana Longo.  Only three move on to the general election. Of the Republican nominees, Eric Beiter edged Council President Randall J. Allison , according to the SUN Gazette.

FIRE INVESTIGATION

Investigators are trying to determine what caused a  20 x 20 shed at 2456 Route 973 West in Hepburn Township to erupt into flames around 8:30 a.m. Monday. Beside Hepburn Township, Trout Run firemen also responded.

PRIMARY NEWS: SHERIFF AND DISTRICT JUDGE

Lycoming County Sheriff Mark Lusk, who served as county sheriff for 12 years,  appeared to easily capture the Republican nomination for his office, according to unofficial results of Tuesday’s primary election, according to the SUN Gazette. While,  Denise Dieter, a local attorney, seemed to outdistance her opponent for the Republican nomination for District Judge. The 29th Judicial District includes all of Jersey Shore and several surrounding townships and the position becomes vacant with the retirement of District Judge Jerry Lepley.

PRIMARY NEWS: MONTOURSVILLE AND MUNCY

The 2021 Primary Election touched every corner of Lycoming County last night as returns in municipal government set up November’s races, according to the SUN Gazette. In Montoursville, Steve Bagwell secured his position for mayor with 686 votes. Three seats for Muncy Borough Council are in play come November. Bill Scott grabbed 300 votes, or 31.12 percent, a significant portion of the primary votes, placing him ahead of Jason E. Mausteller, and Steven M. Shank.

PRIMARY NEWS: JERSEY SHORE BOROUGH COUNCIL

The 2021 Primary Election touched every corner of Lycoming County last night as returns began the set up  to November’s races, according to the SUN Gazette. Jersey Shore Borough Council — Third Ward The candidates vying for a chance to hold the Third Ward’s seat on Jersey Shore Borough Council were neck-and-neck. Kimberly Scott led for the Democratic nomination with 29 votes, or 55 percent of the votes. Incumbent Kenneth J. Scheesley racked up 119 unofficial votes for the Republican nomination to hold onto the Third Ward’s seat in the district.

PRIMARY NEWS: WILLIAMSPORT AREA SCHOOL BOARD

The following candidates for the Williamsport Area School Board have been nominated to appear on the ballot in November. Democratic nominees: Barbara Reeves; Scott Williams; Jamie Sanders; Fatima Royal; Adam Welteroth. On the Republican side the nominees: Adam Welteroth, Cody Derr, Jamie Sanders,  Michelle Deaver, and Barbara Reeves. The Williamsport Area School Board has five seats open in the November election, according to the SUN Gazette.

COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT BLOCK GRANT FUNDING MONTOURSVILLE

Lycoming County commissioners acted on personnel and other this week approved a budget revision for Community Development Block Grant funding for the borough of Montoursville. Under the CDBG budget revision, the borough will now receive $52,527 for Phase III of it curb cuts construction plan, an increase of $6,142. The revision includes a transfer of $6,142 from the borough homeowner sidewalk reconstruction project, now set at $18,857, according to the SUN Gazette.

FELONY FAILURE TO REGISTER

A  Montoursville man failed to register as a sex offender.  Robert E. Martinez, was convicted of unlawful contact with a minor in 2007 for an Aug. 2, 2006 offense. He was determined by the Pa. Sex Offender Assessment Board to be a sexually violent predator.  Martinez failed to register with state police on May 7. He was charged on May 12 with one felony count of fail to register with PSP and is currently  incarcerated at the Lycoming County Prison in lieu of $25,000 monetary bail set by county Magisterial District Judge Gary Whiteman. His preliminary hearing is May 24th.

NATIONAL CREATIVITY DAY

The James V. Brown Library, 19 E. Fourth St., is observing National Creativity Day,  Sunday, May 30. Library officials recommend you set  aside some time on May 30 as an opportunity to refocus your energy on your craft. Recommit to your talent and goals. This day is all about your creative energies and where they will take you.  To help you achieve your creative goals, the library now has several free DIY kits for all ages available at the Holds Pick Up Desk at the Market Street entrance, while supplies last, according to a media outlet.

BODY FOUND IN DANVILLE

A female was found dead in a hot tub on West Mahoning Street in Danville on Tuesday evening at 7:30 pm, according  Montour County Coroner Scott Lynn reported. With no cause of death, an autopsy has been scheduled. The body was discovered at about 7:30 p.m., he said. Lynn did not say if foul play was suspected and no further information was released, pending family notifications.

ASSAULT CHARGES 

Sunday morning 2am, State police at Milton allege Nathan Snyder of Limestone Township assaulted a woman at his residence. Snyder, charged with felony aggravated assault, and multiple misdemeanors. He was arraigned at 2 a.m. Monday and incarcerated in Union County Jail.  A preliminary hearing is scheduled for June 1.

THEFT ON THE WORKSITE

While working on a construction site at Bucknell University, a Trevorton man allegedly stole a credit card from another construction worker and made purchases totaling $649.54, according to a criminal complaint filed by Detective Sergeant Jeffrey Ettinger of Bucknell Public Safety. Chris A. Ney, faces a combined 122 criminal charges filed yesterday at the office of Magisterial District Judge Jeffrey Rowe and his preliminary hearing June 24. Ney was permanently banned from campus.

CLINTON COUNTY PRIMARY 

With Clinton County’s municipal primary complete, there was a light voter turnout,  local approval for four state constitutional amendments and the sitting mayor defeated by a former mayor in Beech Creek Borough. Justin Kline appeared to have successfully moved to the November ballot in Beech Creek Borough. Out of the 21,929 registered voters in Clinton County,  6,330 county voters went to the polls, a nearly 29 percent voter turnout. The county board of elections will meet on June 4 at noon if there are any tie votes and the election will be certified on June 7.

High School

Boys Tennis:

Montoursville’s outstanding season came to an end yesterday at the Hershey Racquet Club. The Warriors fell to District 3 champion Lancaster Catholic 4-0 in the first round of the PIAA Class AA team tournament.

Andrew Stapp and Jared Matlack will compete in PIAA Class AA doubles tournament Friday, May 28 at the Hershey Racquet Club at 10 am with quarterfinals at 4:30 pm.

Baseball:

Hughesville over Columbia Montour VoTech 10-3; St. John Neumann over Bloomsburg 11-9; Selinsgrove over Jersey Shore 3-1; Wyalusing over South Williamsport 6-2

Softball:

Southern tops Muncy 11-10

Ted Bennett

Ted Bennett

The best Classic Hits from the 70’s and 80’s with Ted Bennett

BACKYARD BROADCASTING MAY 18, 2021

ACKNOBELS MASK POLICY

Knoebels Amusement Resort updated their mask policy  to match the  new CDC and state guidance.”Fully vaccinated guests are no longer required to wear face coverings while outdoors at Knoebels,” the resort announced on its Facebook page today.Face coverings will still be required indoors for guests over the age of two – regardless of whether or not they’ve been vaccinated. Knoebels staff will continue to wear face coverings. At the Crystal Pool this summer, guests who aren’t fully vaccinated must wear face coverings unless they’re in the pool, on waterslides, dining or under age two. The Pool Refreshment Stand may be closed this year. Not all rides or food stations will be open this year and some food stands may have shortened hours.

2021 MAY PRIMARY

The 2021 May Primary includes borough mayors to school board directors, township supervisors, and law enforcement officials.  The specifics from the ballot include;Magesterial District Judge, County Sheriff, City Council,School Board Directors, Borough Mayor, Township Supervisor, Constable, Tax Collector, Auditor, Judges of the Commonwealth Court, Judges of the Superior Court ,Justice of the Supreme Court. And voters are being asked to approve or deny changes to the commonwealth’s constitution, addressing issues from a governor’s emergency powers, to race equality. Polls open at 7 a.m. and close at 8 p.m. The voter turnout for a primary is normally lower than for a general election, in fact the past two primary elections, voter turnout has been between 41 percent and 42 percent in Lycoming County, according to the SUN Gazette.

PFIZER FOR AGES 12-15

As of May 10, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) announced emergency authorization of the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine for children ages 12-15. UPMC is accepting appointments for this age group at its existing COVID-19 vaccination clinics.“Pfizer’s clinical trial of more than 2,000 adolescents found that the vaccine was 100% effective in protecting children from COVID-19,” according to Heather Stafford,  the clinical director of Infection Prevention and Control for UPMC in the North Central Pa. region. She also noted it was “extremely safe” according to northcentralpa.com.

CITY HALL ACCESSIBLE UPGRADES

City Hall, under federal law guidelines, is becoming more accessible to a wider scope of the population. With a price tag estimated to be $500,000, the building and surrounding area is modifying parking, curb ramps, adding a West Fourth Street access ramp, putting in push-button doors and modifying the interior elevator, according to Jon Sander, city engineer. According to northcentralpa.com, the interior elevator is the next project for the building and bids are due Friday.

LYCOMING COUNTY COURT

Lycoming County Court heard the final arguments Monday in the case involving the county commissioners, who decided to take legal action against county Controller Krista Rogers when she failed to hand over functions to the budget and finance department. Rogers claimed the action illegal and basically a power grab. No ruling was rendered at the conclusion of the hearing, according to an online media outlet.

SHAD RUN

Shad Run, the stainless steel sculpture from Seattle artist Joseph McDonnell has been rededicated at Pine Square Alley. Its original home was on Market Square in 2005, before the Little League statues. Graphic design students at Penn College made a new sign, which was installed on the wall near the sculpture. According to Lenore Penfield, chairperson of Public ARTWORKS, to get this piece of history together and back on display, “was a collaborative effort between college and community members to restore this remarkable piece and to put it on display for all to enjoy once again.

GOVERNOR  TOM WOLF SECOND VACCINE

Governor Tom Wolf has now received both doses of the COVID-19 vaccine. The governor announced Monday he received his second shot of the Moderna vaccine at the Family First Health Center in downtown York. The governor thanked the staff there and continued urging anyone considering getting vaccinated to make an appointment. He says it’s the ‘only way’ to ensure everyone’s health as the commonwealth continues reopening.

BUCKNELL UNIVERSITY RETAINED PHILADELPHIA LAW FIRM

Bucknell University retained a  Cozen O’ Connor, a Philadelphia law firm,  to investigate the actions of 20 male students accused of attempting to break into an LGBTQ+ housing unit and harassing residents there on Thursday. The investigation doesn’t stop there, it is also set up, by university officials, to inspect the response by officers from the university’s Department of Public Safety. Bravman and other administrators issued a statement Friday condemning the actions against Fran’s House and pledging an independent investigation both into the students’ actions and the response by officers from Bucknell’s Department of Public Safety. In the collective statement released by the residents ahead of a solidarity march that night, they thanked the extended Bucknell community for its support and expressed that they must stand up for themselves and support one another.

BACKYARD BROADCASTING May 17, 2021

FELONY RAPE JURY SELECTION TODAY

It is jury selection today in the case of a Jersey Shore man charged with multiple felony counts of forcible rape, according to northcentralpa.com.  Joshua K. Morehart arrested by the Tiadaghton Valley Regional Police  of sexually assaulting a woman 2020. Jury selection begins at 1:30 p.m. on May 17 in Courtroom 4. Assistant District Attorney Devin Victoria Walker will be representing the Commonwealth.

SUPPRESSION ARGUMENTS 

A Lycoming County Sheriff’s Deputy is accused of confiscating a backpack without a warrant while serving a Protection From Abuse order on Dec. 4.  Attorney Timothy Reitz argued, in a motion, that drug evidence seized from his client Abdul Ali Shuaib should be suppressed because it was illegally obtained, according to northcentralpa.com. Reitz also argued that the Commonwealth had insufficient evidence to support the possession with intent to deliver charges against Shuaib. Arguments are scheduled for July 1 before President Judge Nancy L. Butts. Assistant District Attorney Eric Williams will represent the Commonwealth.

GUILTY PLEA IN DRUG CHARGES 

A Jersey Shore man, charged by the Tiadaghton Valley Regional Police,  was sentenced in Lycoming County Court for selling methamphetamines. Shawn M. Stine, pleaded guilty on May 10 to a felony and misdemeanor. President Judge Nancy L. Butts sentenced Stine to 18 months’ probation for the felony charge, and a consecutive six months of probation for the paraphernalia charge, according to a media outlet.

LOCK HAVEN UNIVERSITY TEST-OPTIONAL ADMISSION POLICY

Through fall of 2022, Lock Haven University extended its test-optional admission policy for students applying to the university.  First-year applicants to the university will not be required to submit either a Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT) or the American College Testing (ACT) score to complete an application for admission. Recently, the board of governors for Pennsylvania’s State System of Higher Education voted to freeze basic in-state tuition for a third consecutive year, even while confronting financial challenges brought on in part by the coronavirus pandemic. For more information on Lock Haven University, visit their website.

LYCOMING COLLEGE GRADUATION

Lycoming College’s members of the 173rd graduating class walked through the opening of the Oliver Sterling Gate, honoring tradition and preserving excellence, as this class, through speakers, looked back at a year of challenge and change. Jalen Williams, Senior Speaker, told the graduating class to “think deeply, act boldly.” Lycoming will host an invitation only commencement ceremony for the class of 2020 at 2pm Saturday. The event will be available on livestream through the university according to the SUN Gazette.

BUCKNELL UNIVERSITY 

Bucknell University, condemned a “horrific” incident in which LGBTQ students were harassed at an affinity house last week, according to university officials. The incident took place Thursday at Tower House: Fran’s House, an affinity house that provides LGBTQ-friendly, gender-neutral housing for Bucknell students. In a letter released Friday, University President John Bravman, said a group of male students approached the residence where they harassed and intimidated the residents while then attempted to gain entry.”It is clear from multiple accounts that the students violated the physical space and, far more importantly, the residents’ sense of place and security. Further, it is equally clear that Bucknell Public Safety’s response to the incident was lacking in myriad ways,” the letter reads. The school will investigate the incident and an outside firm will investigate the Public Safety Department’s response, according to the letter.

POLICE PURSUIT

A late Saturday night police pursuit that began in Shamokin Dam Borough, led police over Veterans Memorial Bridge and south on Route 147, where the vehicle wound up in the river, according to a Pennsylvania State Police communications officer Mark Reasner yesterday.The driver, who has not yet been identified, had to be rescued, Reasner said. Shamokin Dam Police are charging the driver with fleeing and eluding and State Police in Stonington are completing the crash report, according to the Daily Item. The driver was taken into custody.

CHIRP

Clinton County restaurants, bars, hotels and other for-profit businesses in the hospitality industry have today, to apply for grant funding through the COVID Hospitality Industry Recovery Program. SEDA-COG is administering the program for the county and recently announced that third-round funding for the grant program closes today. According to information provided by the Clinton County Economic Partnership, $170,160 remains in Clinton County’s overall allocation. The CHIRP update comes as Gov. Tom Wolf has encouraged businesses to apply for the CHIRP hospitality industry recovery funding, saying the state has already announced $50 million in CHIRP grants, including $1.2 million in Lycoming County (to 56 businesses).

GRADUATION AND RETIREMENT PLANS

Pennsylvania College of Technology, over three days, graduated 794 students from both the Fall 2020 and Spring 2021 classes, receiving their diplomas from Dr. Davie Jane Gilmour, president of the college, who closed graduation a simple thought, “It is my honor to be the last person to get to share some thoughts with you before you go out into the world.”With nearly a quarter century on campus, Davie Jane Gilmour plans on retiring next year as president of Pennsylvania College of Technology according to an online media source. Gilmour spent her entire career in higher education at Penn College, with 23 years leading the college. She announced plans for a legacy fundraising campaign investing in students as they continue to transform tomorrow throughout the workforce. Gilmour hopes that her legacy will reflect boundless opportunity at  Penn College for students.

 

 

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