BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS JULY 30, 2021

NEW CORRECTIONAL FACILITY IN WILLIAMSPORT

A new male community corrections center is opening on Edwin Street in Williamsport, with a well-supported leader at its helm. Transitional Living Centers’ facility will have the capacity to work with 24 men transitioning from state correctional institutions back into the community with the help of a Facility Director, Case Manager, and Resident Advisors.  The facility will be led by Cleveland Way, who  began his service to Williamsport residents in 2000 with PA Treatment & Healing counseling service, concluding his fourteen-year service as Regional Director.  The facility is projected to open October 1.

BODY FOUND 35 YEARS AGO REMAINS AN OPEN CASE

It was 35 years ago that the badly decomposed body of a naked man was found by two fishermen in the Susquehanna River in the Port Trevorton area. The remains have never been identified, but to state police, it is still an open case.  There is speculation the man, who is buried in the county-owned cemetery, was in the country illegally and that is why no clues to his identity have cropped up over the years. The man has been in the National Missing and Unidentified Persons Systems database since 2010.

ASSAULT LEADS TO POSSIBLE BRAIN HEMORRHAGE

Williamsport Police said a woman was treated at UPMC Williamsport for a possible brain hemorrhage after a man allegedly sucker-punched her from behind. David Strothers of Williamsport allegedly jumped on the victim after the initial assault and continued to punch and swing at her. A second assault occurred when a family member heard the victim’s cries for help and attempted to intervene.  Strothers was charged with two counts each of second-degree misdemeanor simple assault and recklessly endangering another person. No bail was listed for Strothers.

STATE POLICE INVESTIGATING WEDNESDAY SHOOTING IN SNYDER COUNTY

State police at Selinsgrove continue to investigate the Wednesday afternoon shooting of a 17-year-old Mount Pleasant Mills resident by another teen.  The severely injured youth is reportedly being treated at Hershey Medical Center after being shot in the head on Wednesday.  Police confirmed that a 17-year-old male was shot by another 17-year-old male at an unspecified location in Snyder County. The police report said the teen is in “serious” condition, but relatives report his condition is much worse.

POTTER COUNTY FAIR

The week long 85th Potter County Fair will begin today with animal contests throughout the day and a 4 p.m. opening ceremony followed by the Kiddie Parade.  Carnival rides will be open each day of the festival, as well as food vendors, live entertainment, and the crowning of a new Potter County Fair Queen on Thursday at 8  p.m. For more information, visit the Potter County Fair Facebook page.

GEISINGER PROVIDES ON DEMAND HEALTHCARE

On-demand virtual visits are now available for conditions usually seen at Geisinger’s Convenient Care urgent centers such as cold and flu symptoms, allergies, rashes, headaches, insect bites or sinus infections.  This allows patients to receive non-emergency care without having to leave home.  During these telehealth visits, providers can assess symptoms virtually and provide care, referrals, and/or prescriptions without having to see you in the clinic.  On-demand visits are available Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 7 p.m., and 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. on weekends.

DRUG CHARGES FOR PHILADELPHIA WOMAN

On July 26, Williamsport police officers assisted State Parole officers at a home located on High Street within the city.  Parole officers took authorities to back porch and showed them a sandwich bag with approximately 21 grams of cocaine and packaging materials. Katina Robinson of Philadelphia was arrested and is being charged with four counts each of felony substance.  Records show Robinson is being held a the Lycoming County Prison as she awaits a preliminary hearing scheduled for August 5.

SHOOTING IS NOTW FATAL IN SNYDER COUNTY

The 17-year-old Mount Pleasant Mills male teen who was shot on Wednesday, allegedly by another teen, has died. Friends and relatives posted on Facebook Saturday afternoon the news that the youth had passed away, three days after he was shot in the head. Snyder County District Attorney Michael Piecuch said that details of the investigation will not likely be released to the public since it involves a minor.

AMERICAN RESCUE PLAN AND THE PLAN TO USE $25.4 MILLION FOR THE CITY

Mayor Derek Slaughter and City Council held the first of what promised to be several work sessions on the best use of the American Rescue Plan’s $25.4 million granted to Williamsport. In a 90-minute work session, Mayor Slaughter and Council ageed the big ticket items were on the radar such as the ongoing costly levee recertification process, and the controlling of flooding situations, including the maintenance and operation of pump stations along the levee system.  Included in the discussion were topic ranging  from establishing a Land Bank to secure unwanted properties, turning them over to be demolished or rehabilitated by private developers and put on the tax rolls, to planting trees along West Fourth Street ripped out during reconstruction of the street.  The funds are to be allocated by 2024 and spent in 2026, according to U.S. Treasury guidelines.

NEW DIRECTOR OF SHELTERS FOR ARW

American Rescue Workers (ARW) announced the recent appointment of William Coleman into the position of director of shelters. Coleman, employed with American Rescue Workers since 2019, has been instrumental in helping hundreds of individuals and families reach self-sufficiency after experiencing a homeless crisis, and through his new position, will be able to serve community members on a larger scale.  Coleman holds a bachelor’s degree in psychology from Pennsylvania State University and a carpentry diploma from Indiana County Technology Center.

LOYALSOCK SCHOOL DISTRICT IN COURT

The Loyalsock School District has been accused of failing to guard against a predatory sexually abusing students, including a middle school girls basketball player.  The suit is related to criminal charges filed against  a former Loyalsock middle school girls basketball coach Kelli Vassallo, who pleaded guilty to sexual assault back in  2018 The plaintiff is seeking unspecified compensatory and punitive damages in excess of $50,000 for negligence and emotional stress.

MENTAL CONDITION QUESTION INCORRECTLY ANSWERED, CHARGES FILED

A Milton man was charged for allegedly lying on his application for a firearm at a sporting goods store in Northumberland County.  Dylan Bridge, 22, allegedly checked no to a question on the background check form which asks if the applicant had ever been adjudicated as a mental defective, or had even been committed to a mental institution. He was denied the purchase after his information was run through the Pennsylvania Instant Check System.  A third-degree felony charge of materially written false statement in an attempt to purchase a firearm and a misdemeanor of false swearing.

COVID-19 DASHBOARD
The Pennsylvania Department of Health confirmed 1,110 new cases of COVID-19. There were 9 new cases in Northumberland County, 8 in Centre, 8 in Lycoming, 5 in Union and 2 in Snyder.

VEHICLE ACCIDENT ON ROUTE 15 IN MONROE TOWNSHIP

Four people were taken to the hospital following a two-vehicle collision on Route 15 in Monroe Township Friday aftenoon.  Emergency personnel were dispatched to the crash on Route 15, the found two vehicles, a car and pickup truck, had crashed through the guardrail and came to rest in the ditch.  The crash caused a lane restriction on Route 15 Southbound which led to traffic congestion and delays before 5 p.m.

GEORGE I. ALDEN TRUST AWARDS LYCOMING COLLEGE GRANT MONEY

Lycoming College has been making massive investments into their campus development, which is progressively stretching into the very neighborhoods which makeup the City of Williamsport.  The George I. Alden trust has awarded Lycoming College a grant of $125,000 to support renovation of Lycoming’s genetics teaching lab in the Heim Science Building.  The recent addition of majors in astrophysics, neuroscience, and biochemistry, are accounting for the college’s most significant growth in enrollment. The renovations will ultimately support and further the education and success of STEM students.  This is the fifth grant awarded to Lycoming by the Alden Trust.

 

BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS AUGUST 2, 2021

MONTOURSVILLE MAN CHARGED FOR INAPPROPRIATE ACTIVITY WITH JUVENILE 

When an older man in her home allegedly attempted to touch her inappropriately, an area juvenile contacted Montoursville State Police. Brandon Michael Hoffman, 21, of Jersey Shore, charged with multiple felonies, when authorities allege, on two separate occasions, touched a juvenile, less than 13 years old, underneath her pants during May 14 – 24 of this year. According to northcentralpa.com, Hoffman is being held at the Lycoming Count Prison in lieu of $95,000 monetary bail as he awaits a formal arraignment.

CRIMINAL TRESPASS ON AN ELDERLY WOMAN IN UNION COUNTY

An elderly woman entered a residence and allegedly struck an 8-year-old child. According to the police affadavit, Patricia G. Leitzel, 76, of Mifflinburg, without permission, entered a neighbor’s home on Pine Needle Cone Drive on July 22. Leitzel approached the juvenile and struck her, with an open hand, on the neck. Leitzel was charged with a third-degree felony criminal trespass charge and a summary of harassment. According to a media outlet, the preliminary hearing at the office of District Judge Jeffrey Mensch is scheduled for Aug. 24.

IN PERSON GRADUATION FOR PENN TECH 

In person graduation returns for Pennsylvania College of Technology at downtown Williamsport. The Summer 2021 Commencement ceremony on Sat., Aug. 7 at 11 a.m. at the Community Arts Center, for the more than 200 students who have petitioned to graduate. The event is open to students who are registered to participate and ticketed guests. Unvaccinated individuals must wear face masks. The event will also be livestreamed for those who cannot attend. Degrees will be conferred upon graduates by President Davie Jane Gilmour, assisted by Sen. Gene Yaw, chairman of the Penn College Board of Directors.

CHIEF SHIKELLAMY MONUMENT REDEDICATED

A century ago Ada Swengel Miller unveiled the monument commemorating Chief Shikellamy on the grounds of Central Oak Heights. On Sunday, it was her great-grandson who helped rededicate the large stone memorial. About 50 people, including several members of the Daughters of the American Revolution, including Leanne Keefer, of Mifflinburg, came out to the afternoon ceremony on a ridge overlooking Shikellamy’s Old Town and the West Branch of the Susquehanna River. The rededication was held one day before the 100th anniversary of the original dedication — on Aug. 2, 1921.

FATAL SHOOTING IN SNYDER COUNTY ON WEDNESDAY

The 17-year-old Mount Pleasant Mills male teen who was shot on Wednesday, allegedly by another teen, has died. Friends and relatives posted on Facebook Saturday afternoon the news that the youth had passed away, three days after he was shot in the head. State police at Selinsgrove confirmed on Friday that they were investigating the shooting of a 17-year-old male by another 17-year-old male at an undisclosed location on Palmer Lane in West Perry Township, Snyder County, on Wednesday afternoon. Neither police spokesman Mark Reasner or Snyder County District Attorney were able to respond to the teen’s condition Saturday night and they reported the details of the investigation will not likely be released to the public since it involves a minor.

MASKS A QUESTION FOR ANOTHER SCHOOL DISTRICT 

Another Valley school district will be revisiting soon its masking protocols for the upcoming school year. Warrior Run Area School District Superintendent Dr. Alan Hack says the school board will revisit that decision at the August 10 meeting. According to a media outlet, it’ll take place at 6 p.m. at the middle school library and there’s still a virtual option as well. The district is closely monitoring local COVID data and CDC data. Unvaccinated people have been strongly encouraged to wear masks.

AN ACCIDENT WITH UNKNOWN CAUSE IS INVESTIGATED BY STATE POLICE

State Police are investigating an a four-wheeler accident in Moreland Township that saw two adults transported for emergency care Saturday night. The male was taken by ground ambulance, while the female was transported by Life Flight. According to Logan Laidecker, Captain of Muncy Area Vol Fire Department, both were taken to Geisinger Medical Center in Danville. Fire personnel were dispatched at 9:55 p.m. and arrived on-scene at around 10 p.m., according to the Lycoming County 911 Center. They remained on-scene until 1:30 a.m. Sunday.

WORK SESSION NUMBER ONE IN THE BOOKS FOR THE CITY

It was the first, of several, work sessions to investigate the best way for the city to utilize the American Rescue Plan $25.4 million. In the 90-minute work session at Trade and Transit Centre II, Slaughter and Council agreed the big ticket items were on the radar such as the ongoing costly levee recertification process, and the controlling of flood situations. According to a media outlet, the funds are to be allocated by 2024 and spent in 2026, according to the U.S. Treasury guidelines.  “My thought is that we do not rush this,” Slaughter said. “We can take the time and have a conversation with the administration, council and clearly any stakeholders and citizens in the community to make sure it is not nickel and dimed away.”

WILLIAMSPORT LADY IS CHOSEN TO REPRESENT PENNSYLVANIA

Sydney Robertson, of Williamsport, Lycoming County, was crowned Miss Pennsylvania USA 2021 and Yvonne Burke, of Doylestown, Bucks County, was crowned Miss Pennsylvania Teen USA 2021 on Saturday evening at the Richland Performing Arts Center. Nearly 80 young women and teens participated in the competitions. Both pageants featured interviews and an evening gown competition. There was a swimsuit competition for Miss Pennsylvania USA contestants and an activewear competition for the Miss Pennsylvania Teen USA contestants. Contestants were narrowed down to the top 16 on Friday. On Saturday, the five finalists were selected.

NEW DIRECTOR OF SHELTERS FOR AMERICAN RESCUE WORKERS

American Rescue Workers (ARW) announced the recent appointment of William Coleman into the position of director of shelters. Coleman, employed with American Rescue Workers since 2019, has been instrumental in helping hundreds of individuals and families reach self-sufficiency after experiencing a homeless crisis, and through his new position, will be able to serve community members on a larger scale, according to a press release

BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS JULY 17, 2021

CORRUPTION OF MINORS

State police in Selinsgrove are investigating an incident in which a woman allegedly exposed her breasts in front of minors at an Independence Day party in Snyder County.  There were several juveniles at the party who possibly witnessed her display.  State police received the report of the alleged corruption of minors on July 6. Police continue to investigate.  No charges have been filed at this point.

FATAL MOTORCYCLE ACCIDENT

A motorcyclist has died as a result of an accident Friday morning on Route 184 in Trout Run. Richard Hafer of Trout Run, died at the scene due to multiple blunt force trauma.  Hafer was in cardiac arrest when Wellsboro and Susquehanna Regional EMS personnel arrived. Hafer was designated as an organ and tissue donor and therefore was released to the Gift of Life Donor Program to coordinate donation.

SELINSGROVE STATE POLICE ARE LOOKING FOR INFORMATION

A victim in Snyder County had a surprise when a bullet went through the exterior of her residence into a bedroom.  Selinsgrove PSP say a full metal jacket bullet struck the north side of a residence in Center Township sometime between 8 a.m. July 10 and 11:45 a.m. July 11.  The bullet appeared to be discharged from a rifle, and traveled through the exterior wall and landed on the floor of the victim’s bedroom.  Anyone with information is asked to contact Selinsgrove PSP.

ELEMENTARY AND SECONDARY SCHOOL EMERGENCY RELIEF FUND

The Loyalsock School District is looking to apply for the Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief Fund, however, several parents don’t want that to happen. At the last board meeting, a dozen parents came to voice their opinions about it.  They argued that the district should forgo the money in order to exempt itself from any guidelines from the government, particularly the state’s Department of Health. District business manager, Dan Egly, says the district has already received $223,000in funds from the government.

COGAN STATION’S FRESH EXPRESS FOOD DISTRIBUTION

Community members visiting the Christian Church at Cogan Station’s Fresh Express food distribution on Monday, July 12th were able to take their perishable items home in insulated thermal bags thanks to a recent donation from UPMC. The church partners with the Central Pennsylvania Food Bank each month for Fresh Express distributions to ensure those in need have access to healthy, fresh foods.  Over 100 community members and families benefit from the program each month.  Christian Church at Cogan Station’s next Fresh Express will take place Monday, August 9.

COVID-19 UPDATED DASHBOARD RESULTS

The Pennsylvania Department of Health recorded 415 new cases of COVID-19.  There were 5 new cases in Snyder County, 3 in Northumberland County, 1 in Snyder, and 1 in Union.

LYCOMING COLLEGE PROFESSOR MARY MORRISON

Lycoming College professor Mary Morrison is making it a vocal point  to teach kids about viruses, pandemics, and how they affect our society this coming year.  Students will learn about historic viruses ranging from the bubonic plague; smallpox; influence; and polio; to HIV; Ebola; SARS; and COVID-19.  The course will encourage students to view the topic of pandemics from multiple angles and perspectives, staying true to liberal arts tradition. Morrison hopes to be able to teach the course in the fall of 2022.

SUNBURY CITY COUNCIL LOOKING FOR MISSING FUNDS 

Sunbury’s City Council is demanding repayment of $12,000 from a Harrisburg grant writer after council members say they didn’t receive 104 grant applications that  were paid for. The issue was brought up at the July 12 council meeting then Mayor Karlovich met in an executive session earlier this week to discuss the situation.  A letter acquired Friday says that Daniel Zalewski Jr., a grant writer from the Harrisburg area, has 30 days to pay back $12,000 for 120 grants that have not been received. Zalewski was paid $100 per grant to be filed and received.

WOMAN STABS BOYFRIEND

A 24-year-old city woman faces assault charges for allegedly stabbing her boyfriend in his Market Street apartment on Tuesday afternoon.  Kallie Sherman is accused of stabbing Dalton Raymond during a verbal altercation. The arguing led to Sherman grabbing a steak knife and stabbing Raymond in the lower abdomen. Raymond was rushed by ambulance to UPMC Williamsport, where he underwent emergency surgery.  Sherman was taken into custody and jailed in the Lycoming County Prison on probation violation.  She was arraigned before District Judge Aaron Biichle on charges of aggravated assault, possession of an instrument of crime and false reports to law enforcement.  She was recommitted in lieu of $175,000 bail.

DRIVER WITH SUSPENDED LICENSE THREATENS OFFICER

Nicholas Wright of Chiswick Road was pulled over after an officer recognized and knew his license was suspended.  Upon talking to Wright, the officer knew he was drinking and asked him to step out of the vehicle. After Wright got out of the vehicle, he had threatened to punch the officer and break his jaw.  Wright was put into the back of the cruiser and taken to the police station. He was arraigned before District Judge Jon E. Kemp on charges of terroristic threats, simple assault, resisting arrest, DUI and possession of drug paraphernalia.

TWA FLIGHT 800

Today is the day that parents and friends of the students and teachers from Montoursville will never forget.  Today is the 25th year that TWA Flight 800 crashed 12 minutes after takeoff.  The crash, which is rated as the third deadliest aviation accident, killed 212 passengers and 18 crew members, including 16 Montoursville students and fiver chaperones headed to France.

HOMICIDE AND OTHER CHARGES ON WILLIAMSPORT WOMAN

A Williamsport woman has been held for court for allegedly stabbing her ex-fiancé and killing their 5-month-old infant daughter, following a preliminary hearing Friday.  Corrie Cowlay-Saunders, 23, of 344 Adams Street, was held for court on charges of homicide, endangering the welfare of children, attempted criminal homicide, aggravated assault, recklessly endangering another person, possessing an instrument of crime, burglary, criminal tress pass and unauthorized use of a vehicle. Cowlay-Saunders remains in the Lycoming County Prison for $50,000 bail until her formal arraignment before Lycoming County Judge Marc Lovecchio, Aug 2.

NEW GYM IN LOYALSOCK TOWNSHIP, SPECIAL MEETING TO DISCUSS

A special meeting of the Loyalsock school board has been scheduled to discuss adding a new competition-size gym to Loyalsock Township School District’s proposed construction project.  A vote on the issue was tabled recently so board members would have more time to consider the latest option.  The change from the original plan would add an additional $1.6 million to the overall project and bring the total for the gym expansion to $4.6 million.  The newest proposal would include an increased number of bathrooms to accommodate the larger crowd capacity as well as a hallway with two entrances to the facility.  The entrance to the new gym would be adjacent to a parking lot.

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BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS JULY 30, 2021

WILLIAMSPORT MAN’S CONDUCT WITH MINOR LANDS HIM IN JAIL

A Williamsport man engages in conduct with a minor that lands him in jail.  According to reports from state police in Montoursville, David Sewell, 39, and an unidentified juvenile female were taken from a room at 2019 E Third Street on July 24. According to northcentralpa.com, an evaluation was conducted at the emergency room at UPMC Williamsport. Sewell was charged with multiple felonies and was denied bail by Judge William Solomon. Sewell is held at the Lycoming County Prison awaiting his preliminary hearing on Aug. 2.

PARKING PERMITS GOING ON SALE IN BLOOMSBURG

Bloomsburg Police Parking Office will begin sales of residential parking permits on Mon., Aug 2, and permits for students will go on sale Monday, August 16 and will be available at the Town Hall Building, 301 East Second Street on the first floor between the hours of 8 a.m. and 4 p.m. According to northcentralpa.com, students who arrive early for sports or other activities may purchase a permit when they move in for the semester. There is a $10 annual fee for each vehicle permit, with two permits allowed per address. Visitor permits cost $20 annually with a limit of one per address.  For more information about parking permits, call Bloomsburg Police.

ON DEMAND HEALTHCARE

When you need care right away but it’s not an emergency, you can now see a Geisinger urgent care provider without leaving home. On-demand virtual visits are available for conditions typically seen at Geisinger’s ConvenientCare urgent care centers. These include cold and flu symptoms, allergies, rashes, headaches, insect bites, sinus infections and urinary tract infections. Providers can assess your symptoms virtually and provide care, referrals and/or prescriptions without having to see you in the clinic which adds another level of convenience for Geisinger patients. For more information about telehealth at Geisinger, or to see a demo, visit geisinger.org/telemedicine.

ELK LOTTERY APPLICATION OPEN UNTIL TOMORROW

In April 2019, the Game Commission’s Board of Commissioners approved two new seasons; an early archery season and a late antlerless season. These seasons are in addition to the traditional general season, providing another 20 days, (13 for archery and seven for late), of elk hunting opportunities. Each season is mutually exclusive from the others with its own pool of applicants, specific drawing and bonus points. Interested hunters can apply for one, two or all three seasons, but you can only be drawn for one of the three, as state law dictates that hunters can only possess one elk tag per license year.  Monday, August 2, 2021, marks the beginning of the UNSOLD, 1st round of antlerless deer license applications for the 2021-22 hunting seasons.

ATTEMPTING TO FLEE COST HIM ADDITIONAL TIME IN STATE PRISON

A Renovo man attempted to escape from a Sheriff’s Deputy in the Clinton County Courthouse. According to police reports, Matthew Joseph Cole, 35, was being walked to the holding cell, when he started running. With Deputies running behind him, Cole ran down the stairs and was apprehended by Deputies waiting on the first floor. He continued to resist arrest, until a taser was used. Cole now faces multiple charges and an additional 11 years in state prison if convicted.

WILLIAMSPORT BUREAU OF POLICE NOW ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS

The application for employment as a Police Officer with the Williamsport Bureau of Police is now available. Applications can be obtained in person at the Williamsport Bureau of Police Headquarters located at 245 W. Fourth St, Williamsport, PA 17701. The application is also available to download online. You can find the link to download the application by clicking here. The deadline for submitting applications is Monday, September 20th, 2021.

MILLBROOK PLAYHOUSE CANCELLING GRAND LEGENDS

An official press release from the Millbrook playhouse  a historic, professional summer stock theater that has served Clinton County, Pennsylvania for over 50 years.  Unfortunately, despite diligent safety procedures, including full company vaccination, one of our company members has tested positive for the coronavirus. Due to this situation, and for the safety of our patrons, performers, and staff, we will be canceling our production of Grand Legends. We hope that we can reschedule it in the future. We will be moving forward with our production of Snow White, which opens Saturday, July 31st, on our open-air courtyard stage, as well as our youth camps beginning Monday, August 2nd. Please know that the well-being of our company and patrons is paramount to us, and going forward with the fall season, we will continue to take all precautions to ensure the health and safety of our staff, which includes vaccinations and regular covid testing.

REQUEST FOR SINGLE DAY OPENING OF TROUT SEASON

The head of the region’s Trout Unlimited chapter supports having a single opening day for trout season in the state — the first Saturday in April — as the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission is considering. “I would support an earlier opening day because of the impact of climate change on stream conditions. When the streams are low and warm it stresses the trout,” said Larry Myers, president of the Forbes Trail Chapter of Trout Unlimited. For most of the state, opening day of trout season is the first Saturday after April 11, but it is the first Saturday after March 28 for the regional opening of the season in 18 southeastern Pennsylvania counties, the commission said in a statement Monday. According to SUN Gazette, that regional opening date took effect in 2007 and would require amending the fish and boat code to change it.

 

BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS JULY 10, 2021

WILLIAMSPORT BALLPARK, INC.

City Council approved a lot consolidation and land development plan by Williamsport Ballpark, Inc. for a seven-field athletic complex on Rose Street.  The lot consolidation combines two parcels to create 28.4 acres at the site which was the former city trash dump on Rose Street. The 5-0 vote allows the landholding of the Williamsport/Lycoming Chamber of Commerce to develop the facility for baseball and softball games, including 415 parking spaces.  The city zoning hearing board granted a variance so the type of landscaping will not be the deep rooted kind and the fields will be turf.  The project is taxable and will provide the city with business privilege taxes and because of its prior use as a defunct city dump, there was not much other land use for the site.

CAPITAL PROJECTS BUDGET FOR WILLIAMSPORT CITY

City Council approved a $79.5 million six-year capital projects budget without much discussion this week, but some on council were asking and commenting with Mayor Derek Slaughter about the status of departments of safety and finance and administration and public works.  During this week’s council meeting, Councilman Adam Yoder, and others on council, said they asked Slaughter if the city needed a public safety director.  Slaughter then responded, saying he was reviewing that with Bureau of Fire Chief Mark Killian and Bureau of Police Chief Justin Snyder.  Slaughter said the previous police Chief served as the public safety director and he would not be in a rush to have that role filled. As for finance director, Slaughter said, he was reviewing that and said he planned on moving forward on it in the near future.

CHAD SALSMAN PLEAD GUILTY IN MAY TO CHARGES

A Pennsylvania county prosecutor who pleaded guilty to pressuring clients for sex when he was a defense attorney was sentenced Friday to 18 months to 5 years in prison.  A judge in Bradford County imposed the sentence on former District Attorney Chad M. Salsman, who had emphatically denied the allegations before pleading guilty in May to witness intimidation, promoting prostitution and obstruction of justice.

50 BAGS OF HEROIN IN A TRAFFIC STOP

Police said a traffic stop of a suspected drug user led to the discovery of 50 bags of heroin, seven grams of methamphetamine, packing materials, and a stamper inside a hotel room in Loyalsock.  Edgar Garcia of Williamsport was charged with felony manufacture, possession, and delivery with intent to manufacture or deliver after they discovered the items.  Garcia was unable to post $50,000 monetary bail and will await a preliminary hearing with Judge Gary Whiteman from inside the Lycoming County Prison. That hearing is scheduled for July 12.

CRITICISM FOR LYCOMING COUNTY NARCOTICS ENFORCEMENT TRAFFIC STOP

A recent traffic stop by the Lycoming County Narcotics Enforcement Unit drew heavy criticism online when the mother of the individuals involved posted a social media detailing what she called a case of racial profiling.  The post, which has generated over 490 shares on Facebook, was posted by a lady who claims her and her two sons were followed and racially profiled by the officers.  DA Ryan Gardner said the traffic stop was due to tinted windows.  Officers then spotted marijuana joint in plain view inside the vehicle, which gave them probable cause to search the vehicle.

RETIREMENT AT LYCOMING COUNTY SPCA

The Lycoming County SPCA Board of Directors announced the retirement of Executive Director Victoria Stryker and hiring of Alyssa Correll.  Victoria Stryker began her career at the SPCA in 1999 as the Volunteer Coordinator. She worked in that capacity for a short time before stepping into the role as Executive Director. Correll brings five years of global nonprofit management experience to the position.

COVID-19 DASHBOARD

The Pennsylvania Department of Health confirmed 194 new cases of COVID-19.  There were 3 new cases in Potter County, 1 in Lycoming, and 1 in Union.

KNOBELS RAISES INCENTIVES TO HIRE FOR THE SUMMER

Knoebels is hiking its starting pay rate up to $1 more as it seeks to  hire several hundred more workers at its understaffed park this summer.  The amusement resort also will give employees and new hires 16 and older a chance to win a 2021 Chevrolet Trailblazer as an incentive to work at the park.  The park, which celebrated its 95th birthday on the Fourth of July, was holding a job fair on Thursday and said to may hire employees on the spot.  The park has operated about 75% of its 60 rides daily.

SUNBURY WOMAN SENTENCED IN NORTHUMBERLAND COUNTY COURT

A Sunbury woman convicted of lying to investigators in the Arabella Parker murder case has been handed down a maximum state prison sentence.  51-year-old Christy Willis was sentenced 17 months to 17 years in state prison for her role in the 2019 beating death of the three-year-old girl.  Willis’ son, 20-year-old Jahrid Burgess of Trevorton, is charged with homicide, and the girl’s mom, 23-year-old Samantha Delcamp of Trevorton is charged with acting as an accomplice. Both are awaiting trial for their roles.

2020-21 PENNSYLVANIA FIRE COMPANY AND EMERGENCY MEDICAL SERVICES GRANT FUNDING

State Reps. Tina Pickett, Martin Causer, and Clint Owlet have released their region’s 2020-2021 Pennsylvania Fie Company and Emergency Medical Service Grant funding.  These funds can be used for construction; renovations; purchases and repairs for equipment; training; retention; recruitment; debt reduction; and this year only, supplemental funding to compensate for a lack of fundraising opportunities.

INMATE DIED ON JUNE 25

SCI Coal Township officials notified Pennsylvania State Police at Milton that an inmate under their supervision from SCI Huntington died on June 25, 2021 at 10:30 p.m. According to a news release from PSP Milton, Michael Eaton of Huntingdon died while he was a patient at Geisinger Medical Center in Danville.  An autopsy was scheduled on July 2, with results pending. The investigation  is ongoing.

RIDING FOR A CAUSE

Two bicyclists on a cross country journey from New York to Oregon stopped by the Old Lycoming Township Fire Department for a brief overnight stay after a 90-mile ride on Wednesday. John Bladholm, 54 and Chris Ray, 53, are biking to raise money for several different foundations.  For 45 days, the two will cover anywhere from 70 to 100 miles a day to finish the 3,500-mile trip.  This past week, the group supported The Fire Family Foundation.  They will support other groups like; Feeding America, Sam Day Foundation, and the Green Beret Foundation.

BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS JULY 24, 2021

CHILD PORNOGRAPHY SENDS NORTHUMBERLAND MAN TO JAIL

Law enforcement officials discovered numerous sexual images of children July 21, on an electronic device, when a search warrant was executed at a Northumberland Borough man’s residence.  Wayne Lewis Jr. of Orange St., now faces 200 third-degree felony charges each of child pornography, and disseminating photos/film of child sex acts. Lewis was remanded to Northumberland County Jail on $150,000 monetary bail after arraignment by District Judge Michael Toomey. A preliminary hearing for Lewis is scheduled for August 3.

MONTGOMERY MAN CHARGED WITH MULTIPLE FELONIES

A Montgomery man who admittedly has been looking up child pornographic images on the internet for  years was arrested Wednesday and received felony child pornography charges.  Joshua Perrus was charged with two second-degree felony charges and two third-degree felony charges of child pornography for the images investigators allegedly discovered on two cell phones in his possession. Perrus also received a third-degree felony charge of criminal use of a communication facility.  During his arrest, Perrus reportedly told investigators that he used Google to search for child pornography and had been doing so since 2006. Perrus was arraigned by District Judge Christian Fry and bail was set at $75,000.

BURGLARY CHARGES FOR A MIFFLINBURG MAN 

State and local police accuse a Mifflinburg man of breaking into two different towing businesses, stealing a computer and other items from one and smashing out the windows of his own impounded vehicle and taking potential criminal evidence from inside.  Ryan Darrup of Mifflinburg was arrested and has been held in Union County Prison on $50,000 bail.  Darrup was charged with burglary and criminal trespass, theft, and criminal mischief.

WATER DAMAGE TO CITY HALL IN WILLIAMSPORT

Williamsport Mayor Derek Slaughter released a press release Friday evening stating that City Hall has sustained water damage due to a roof leak, and may need to be temporarily relocated.  City Hall’s roof started to leak due to last week’s thunderstorms and as a result, the building sustained significant water damage. Mayor Slaughter stated that City Hall now has  “an awful odor inside,” as well as mold.  A company will come to City Hall early next week to conduct an air quality test, mold test, and overall general assessment of the conditions.

FANS PERMITTED ON THE HILL AT THE LITTLE LEAGUE WORLD SERIES

Little League International and President Steve Keener were weighing their options over the last few weeks regarding how to allow general admission fans into this year’s Little League World Series in South Williamsport. After talking with medical consultants the announcement was made Friday afternoon to allow 3,000 fans entry into this year’s Little League Wold Series.  The seating will be limited to the hill beyond the Lamade Stadium fence and the area beyond the outfield fence at Volunteer Stadium. The only people allowed to sit inside either stadium will be family and friends from the communities the 16 United States teams come from, and a few officials.  Little League is giving 250 stadium access passes to each of the 16 teams.  The tickets will be available online two days prior to each day and will be free.

A MINI-MOBILE METH LAB OWNED BY A SUNBURY MAN

A Sunbury man faces felony charges of risking a catastrophe after Northumberland police say they discovered a backpack containing a mini-mobile meth lab. Shane Bucher is wanted by police after an arrest warrant was issued by Sunbury District Judge Mike Toomey on Friday.  Officers said inside the backpack was a white pipe, packaging materials, batteries and several other meth-making materials.  Bucher now faces felony manufacturing, risking a catastrophe and other drug charges.

COVID-19 DASHBOARD

The Pennsylvania Department of Health confirmed 450 new cases of COVID-19.  There were 7 new cases in Centre County, 2 in Tioga, 2 in  Union, and 1 in Northumberland.

GUNS, DRUGS AND EXPLOSIVE DEVICES ALL WITHIN REACH OF AN INFANT

Vice and Narcotic agents from State Police in Montoursville executed a search warrant Wednesday for a man living in Williamsport.  Once inside the residence, agents said they discovered guns, drugs, and explosive devices all within reach of an infant located inside the home.  James Lampley of Williamsport was charged with two counts of second-degree felony possession of a firearm prohibited, one count of second-degree possession of firearm with manufacturer number altered, six counts of second-degree felony unlawful possession of weapons of mass destruction, and one count of third-degree felony endangering the welfare of children, as well as several misdemeanors.  Lampley is being held at the Lycoming County Prison in lieu of $125,000 monetary bail. A preliminary hearing is scheduled for July 27.

OBTAINING A MULTI-MODAL GRANT

More of the East Third Street Old City Gateway project might be able to get done outside of Lycoming College should a $1.48 million grant application be approved by the state.  City Council approved the administration’s request for the multi-modal grant administered through the Commonwealth Financing Authority.  The grant would pay for reconstruction /paving of East Fourth Street between Basin and Mulberry Streets and sidewalk and streetscape – including lights – on Campbell Street between West Third and West Fourth Steets.  The city is having one of its consulting firms, Delta Development, assist in the grant acquisition.

MOTOR VEHICLE ACCIDENT ON BRIDGE OVER MUNCY CREEK

In Muncy, volunteer firefighters and paramedics rushed to the 2100 block of John Brady Drive, just north of the borough, for a fiery crash on the bridge over Muncy Creek about 6:40 p.m. Friday. At least three people were reported injured, including one child, according to reports from the scene.  Ambulances from Muncy Area, Pennsdale and Hughesville were dispatched to the scene.  State police are leading the investigation. No other details are available at this time.

100TH ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION PLANNING FOR LYCOMING COUNTY UNITED WAY

The local United Way is preparing to celebrate its 100th anniversary, next April. The official date of the anniversary is April 14 and the LCUW is planning some events around the Centennial. The local historians are hard at work as they prepare for the centennial by gathering information about the founding members and interviewing descendants of that original group who still live in the area today. Specific plans for the celebration are not firm. More to follow.

MOTION REQUEST FOR NEW TRIAL

A Sunbury woman, who was convicted of lying to police in the Arabella Parker case, claims a change of venue should have happened, because a local newspaper wrote about her case and it caused the public to believe she was guilty. Therefore, she and her attorneys filed a motion for a new trial. .Christy Willis, 52, who was convicted by a jury in April, filed her second motion in Northumberland County Court through her attorney public defender William Cannon. According to the Daily Item, Willis was sentenced to 20 months to 17 years in state prison. The hearing is scheduled for Aug. 2 at 3 p.m. in front of Jones.

A WITHDRAW OF CHARGES IN SEXUAL ASSAULT CASE 

Multiple charges withdrawn for a Muncy woman, during her time as an employee, was accused earlier this year of sexually assaulting a 16-year-old male at a Union County treatment center. Estee E. McLaughlin, 27, is now charged with three third-degree felony institutional sexual assault of a minor and one corruption of minors charge, as the other charges were withdrawn in Union County Court. She has a pre-trial conference scheduled with Union County District Attorney Pete Johnson, according to his office.

JURY SELECTION IN LOCK HAVEN WOMAN’S CASE

The case involving a Lock Haven woman’s homicide of a nine-year-old boy is preparing for court, as the dates have been set for the jury selection.  Jamie Lynn Jackson, 36, of Lock Haven was charged Nov. 30, 2020, when Anson Stover, Jackson’s nephew, was discovered deceased in her apartment. Jury selections were targeted between March 21 and April 8, 2022 for the trial that will be heard in Clinton County. Objections to the motions from the defense must be filed by Aug. 30. The prosecution then must respond by Sept. 14.

FINANCIAL AWARD PROVIDED TO UPTOWN MUSIC COLLECTIVE

The Uptown Music Collective, the area’s premier nonprofit school of music, has received an award in the amount of $26,954.23 from the First Community Foundation Partnership of Pennsylvania. The allocation, which represents a grant from the Williamsport Lycoming Community Fund, is to be used to allow the school’s staff to address four key factors that directly affect the potential to increase capacity, including the ability to find, train and retain local, qualified instructors; time management; the number of spaces in which educational activities can take place simultaneously; and the organizational and technological infrastructure needed for continued growth.

NAMES RELEASED FROM MONDAY’S INTERSTATE ACCIDENT

State Police have released the identities of two people involved in a rollover crash Monday afternoon on Interstate 180, in Northumberland County. Robert Hatzel, 85, and passenger Bishan Wu, 53, both of Danville, were transported to UPMC Williamsport for treatment of injuries, according to State Police in Milton. The accident occurred shortly before 2:30 p.m. near mile marker 9 in Delaware Township. Police said Hatzel was driving east when a trailer he was hauling lost control, then went onto the west shoulder of the roadway causing Hatzel’s truck to overturn on its passenger side, and slide several feet before coming to rest on the west shoulder facing east. According to a media outlet, the right lane of I-180 was closed for at about an hour.

GEORGE I ALDEN TRUST AWARDED A GRANT TO LYCOMING COLLEGE

The George I. Alden Trust has awarded Lycoming College a grant of $125,000 to support the continued renovation of the genetics teaching lab in the Heim Science Building. The renovations are set to support and further the education and success of STEM (science, technology, engineering and math) students. In the summer, the lab, in conjunction with other spaces on campus, is used for Lycoming College for Kids and Teens, an educational and hands-on program for students in grades 2-12. According to the Daily Item, lab renovations are underway this summer with anticipated completion by the start of the 2021-22 academic year.

GEISINGER JERSEY SHORE HOSPITAL HELIPAD

It was a big unveiling yesterday at Geisinger Jersey Shore Hospital, as a new helipad was introduced to the public. Sun Gazette reported the price tag for the project at nearly $2 million, and was financed in part by a gift to the Geisinger Health Foundation and through a $250,000 grant from the Williamsport Lycoming Community Fund at the First Community Foundation Partnership of Pennsylvania. Geisinger Life Flight has moved more than 75,000 patients since 1981 and averages more than 3,500 transports a year.

 

 

BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS JULY 28, 2021

CHARGES FILED BY LYCOMING COUNTY SPCA OFFICER

A Lycoming County couple was charged with animal cruelty for failing to seek timely care for their pet . Felony and misdemeanors were filed against Michael Meyer, and Vanessa Meyer, of Picture Rocks. On June 30, their American bulldog named Diva required her right foot amputated, according to the criminal complaint. According to a media outlet, Diva is now at the Lycoming County SPCA. The Meyers’ were arraigned on July 22 at District Justice Kemp’s office and bail was set at $25,000 unsecured for each. Preliminary hearing is set for September 10.

DOMESTIC ABUSE IN SUNBURY LEADS TO ARREST

A man allegedly attempted to strangle a woman at a residence in Sunbury. The Daily Item reported Nathaniel R. Burgos, faces multiple felony and misdemeanor charges. On July 21, the victim allegedly sent texts to her friend saying her boyfriend was “beating her up and the kids are there,” according to the arrest affidavit. Sunbury police were dispatched around 2:30 a.m. and once at the residence on Reagan Street, Burgos was arrested and arraigned later that morning by District Judge Michael Toomey. Bail was set at $75,000 monetary which he posted. A preliminary hearing at Toomey’s office is scheduled for Sept. 21.

21ST ANNUAL CUP GOLF TOURNAMENT

The 21st annual Cup Golf Tournament, a major fundraiser for the Muncy Historical Society’s community outreach objectives, begins at 8:30 a.m. on August 14 at White Deer Golf Complex. Its a four-person scramble. According to northcentralpa.com, the registration deadline is August 7, and is limited to amateur golfers age 18 and older. Registration forms are available at the Historical Society, or may be downloaded.

DRIVER’S IDENTIFIED IN FRIDAY’S CRASH ON MUNCY CREEK BRIDGE

The drivers involved in Friday’s fiery crash have been identified as Chester Swank, of Muncy, and Sherman Harden, 45, also of Muncy, when their vehicles collided on the bridge over Muncy Creek on John Brady Drive about 6:40 p.m., according to state police. SUN Gazette reported passerby, Jeremy Hanaway, stopped and pulled Swank and a 4-year-old boy from the truck and both were flown to Geisinger Medical Center, Danville.

SWAP OF CITY AND COUNTY PROPERTIES REQUIRES MORE WORK

A vote by two of the three Lycoming County commissioners Tuesday led to an impassioned exchange as they split their vote on a proposed swap of county and city properties. The proposed deal involves the proposed agreement of sale of land below the Executive Plaza, which is land the city owns, and the land below the Third Street parking garage that the county owns. City Council approved the deal last week in a 6-0 vote, Commissioner Scott Metzger said. SUN Gazette reported Commissioner Mirabito said he was going to register a no vote. Work continues for the deal, as it can’t move forward without the commissioners’ signature.

JERSEY SHORE DISTRICT HEALTH AND SAFETY PLAN

Jersey Shore Superintendent Dr. Brian Ulmer explained in a recent meeting that their Health and Safety Plan does not require students to wear masks, unless they are ordered to do so — as seems to be the case for wearing masks on school buses. A media outlet reported that Ulmer emphasized that the plan states “ordered,” not “recommended.” “So, even though we are not requiring masks in school, and we’ve already said that in our health and safety plan, there is a federal order requiring masks on public transportation.” Ulmer also addressed the issue of testing students for COVID-19.“We are not testing kids. I am not a health care provider. That has been my answer since day one…I don’t want to do testing in schools.”

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