JUDGE DENIED BAIL AND THREATENS TO EXCUSE HIM FROM HIS HEARING

Harry Warren Delong, 58, of Williamsport earned warnings from Judge Butts,  as court officials attempted to conduct a hearing on Jan. 19. Judge Nancy Butts warned Delong multiple times throughout the proceedings, according to the complaint. Butts said, “Mr. Delong, if you refuse to stay seated, I’m going to have to excuse you from this hearing. Mr. Delong, I’ve muted you intentionally because the way I perceive you’re acting is trying to intimidate the witness.” Delong was denied bail and charged with three third-degree felonies and one count misdemeanor. He remains in the Lycoming County Prison as he awaits a preliminary hearing scheduled for July 8

CRIMINAL HOMICIDE CHARGES IN NORTHUMBERLAND COUNTY AGAINST WIFE 

A woman was charged with homicide and arraigned Monday after her husband was found dead at their home in the village of Dooleyville in Mount Carmel Township, Northumberland County. Lisa Karlaza, 53, faces criminal homicide charges and she was arraigned and denied bail on Monday by on-call District Judge Michael Diehl. Police were called to the home of Richard and Lisa Karlaza Sunday evening at 21 Back Street for a report of a home invasion. When police arrived, Lisa yelled out that she could not open the front door because her husband’s foot was against the door, according to the arrest affidavit. A preliminary hearing date has not yet been set for Lisa Karlaza.

WOMAN MOWING GRASS ASSAULTED WITH CROSSBOW BOLTS

Pennsylvania State Police in Montoursville are reporting the investigation of an  assault with a weapon on a woman mowing her lawn in Loyalsock Township. According to a police press release, an unknown suspect was firing miniature crossbow bolts at the woman as she mowed the lawn shortly before noon June 22 at a residence at Elwood Cres W. State police continue to investigate. Anyone with information may contact the barracks in Montoursville.

STAR PARTY AT RIDER PARK

The First Community Foundation Partnership of Pennsylvania (FCFP) is hosting  a Star Party at Rider Park on Friday, July 16. According to northcentralpa.com, NASA engineer Glenn Bock and local geologist Edie Gair Shull will be the night’s guides to the wonders of space viewable from the park. Learn how to identify galaxies and constellations and view the moon will be near its first quarter, allowing guests to view some of its unique geological features. Guests should arrive between 8:30 – 9:15 p.m. Bring jackets, telescopes, binoculars, lawn chairs, blankets, and flashlights. Due to limited parking at Rider Park, participants are asked to pre-register for this event by calling the Community Foundation at (570) 321-1500.

CORONER RELEASES NAME OF DECEASED IN JULY 4TH FATALITY

The Lycoming County Coroner released the name of the victim struck by a vehicle on the 900 block of High Street on July 4.  Christopher Welch, 24, was crossing HIgh Street around 10:40 p.m. with a second man when they were both struck by a car traveling westbound. Welch was in cardiac arrest at the scene and transported to UPMC Susquehanna in Williamsport. He was pronounced dead at 11:09 p.m. from multiple blunt force trauma.  The second victim, a 35-year-old man was also transported to UPMC.  The driver of the vehicle is a juvenile and will not be named, according to a news release from city police on Tuesday.

LUMBER BARON AND INDUSTRIALISTS

Thad Meckley, a local historian and member of Wildwood Cemetery’s board of trustees, is researching the history of the area through some of the key players buried at Wildwood with a goal of creating in-person and virtual tours. He is working with three interns in Lycoming College’s WISE program, whose job is to reach out to heirs and descendants of the lumber barons and industrialists to compile photos, histories and stories about that time period. Meckley hopes to get a state marker from the Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission attesting that Lycoming County is the largest accumulation of lumber barons and industrialists while we were the lumber capital of the world.

FORMER ASSISTANT TEACHER CHARGED WITH ENDANGERING THE WELFARE OF CHILDREN

A former assistant teacher at Fun Academy Daycare, Muncy, who, according to a Muncy Township Police affidavit, “mishandled” a 1 year old toddler and dropped him, causing him to strike his head. Muncy Township Police have filed charges against Tina Marie Mosteller, of Cogan Station, has been charged with two counts of felony endangering the welfare of a child and one count of simple assault, according to court records filed at the office of District Judge Jon E. Kemp. The child was injured on May 7, and was treated at Evangelical Community Hospital, Lewisburg, for a concussion, according to northcentralpa.com. Following her arraignment Friday before Kemp, Mosteller was released on $35,000 bail.

SHOTS FIRED

City police are investigating reports of several shots fired on the corner of West Fourth Street and Oliver Avenue.Authorities are working to determine whether a residence in the 2600 block of Grand Street may be involved in the incident.With no injuries reported, at least two residential structures were struck by bullets.Penn College, Old Lycoming and State police aided in investigating the scene. Oliver Avenue was blocked off to the public.

STABBING VICTIM  NEAR EIGHTH AVENUE  AND MEMORIAL AVENUE IS A JUVENILE FEMALE

A female juvenile, who was stabbed near Eighth Avenue and Memorial Avenue about 8:30 p.m. Monday, was seen at UPMC Susquehanna, according to city police.In a police report, the girl, whose age was not released, sustained lacerations to her arm and wrist, and an apparent stab wound to her upper chest, according to SUN Gazette. There was no word on whether she was admitted to the hospital or discharged.After being assaulted, the girl left a trail of blood droplets as she headed north on Eighth Avenue, before she was picked up by a passerby, who drove her to the hospital. The girl was stabbed during an altercation with another juvenile, police were told, with no other details were available.

CHARITY BIKE TOUR

It is a charity biking event across country that is stopping in Williamsport and Old Lycoming Township for an overnight stay. The Director of Emergency Services at Old Lycoming Township Fire Company, Joe Hopple, explains. The bike riders will be welcomed by the Williamsport City and the Williamsport Bureau of Fire along with fire fighters from Old Lycoming Township Fire Company.

BACKYARD BROADCASTING JULY 6, 2021

NONCOMMISSIONED OFFICER OF THE YEAR FOR JERSEY SHORE MAN

It was a three-day-long competition in Fort Bragg, North Carolina last week, where Logan Engel of Jersey Shore won Noncommissioned Officer of the year for the United States Army. Engel, the second time this year,  broke records during the Army Combat Physical Fitness test. In addition to the honor of winning NCO of the year, Engel also won an Army Commendation Medal and Army school of choice for future education.

HERYN PROGRAM

Prior to attending the Middle Susquehanna Riverkeeper Association’s HERYN (Helping Engage our River’s Youth with Nature) program day on June 22, is a great resource to connect young people with aquatic resources and spark a lifelong appreciation for our river and the tributaries that feed into it. The program drew 73 participants — most of which were in the 10-13 year-old age category — from 10 different counties. According to SUN Gazette, participants caught more than 725 fish over the six-day span, releasing all but a few used for a cooking demonstration for each day’s participants.

Join me on Sunday morning as Executive Director,  John Zack tan ski visits with me on In Touch.

LAGGING VACCINATION RATES
A certain internet rumor might be one of the causes for Lycoming County’s lagging vaccination rates. According to an online media outlet, concerns from wariness about the haste in development to numerous internet hoaxes, including the claim that there are microchips in the vaccines, many people are not keen on getting the jab. One of the more prevailing rumors deals with women’s health.“Some people mistakenly believe that the vaccine will render them infertile,” According to Ms. Hemmendinger of Let’s End COVID! People should speak to their doctors about any COVID-19 vaccine concerns.

STABBING IN THE CITY

A man was in the UPMC Williamsport emergency room getting treated for stab wounds he suffered near Eighth and Memorial avenues about 8:30 p.m. last night, according to SUN Gazette. Police report, the perpetrator may have been a woman. The assailant was being sought.Following the assault,  the victim went south on Eighth Avenue, west through an alley next to a church and then north on Grier Street, where he was picked up by a passerby who drove him to the hospital, as police reported. The extent of the victim’s injuries were not known.

FALSE IMPRISONMENT CHARGES FOR WILLIAMSPORT WOMAN

Williamsport Bureau of Police officers were forced to push a door open to an upstairs apartment after they said a woman barricaded herself inside with a juvenile. On June 26, officers responded to a call and spoke with a witness who said Brittany Dale Goehrig, 34, of Williamsport had a knife with her.. Several attempts were made to get Goehrig to release the juvenile.  She was charged with second-degree felony false imprisonment of minor/parent and two counts of first-degree misdemeanor endangering welfare of children. She posted $25,000 unsecured bail and was released from custody. A preliminary hearing is scheduled for July 6 with Judge Christian Fry.

STOLEN VEHICLE FROM TREATMENT CENTER

A patient at a treatment center in Union County was charged after he allegedly stole a vehicle from the parking lot and fled on Interstate 80.Ryan C. Goodwin, 31, of Wilmington, Delaware, was arraigned Wednesday at the office of District Judge Jeffrey C. Mensch on felony charges of theft by unlawful taking and receiving stolen property. Goodwin’s preliminary hearing is scheduled for July 27 at Mensch’s office.

FATAL PEDESTRIAN ACCIDENT

Around 10:40 Sunday night, police were called to the scene around the 900 block of High Street near Fourth Avenue where two male adult pedestrians were reported to have been struck by a vehicle, traveling westbound, on High Street.Two men, one 24 years old, the other 35, were reported to have severe injuries and were transported to UPMC Susquehanna at Williamsport for medical treatment. The 24-year-old later succumbed to his injuries, according to a news release. According to northcentralpa.com, members of the Pennsylvania State Police Collision Reconstruction Unit did respond to assist Williamsport Police with the investigation.

SUNBURY WOMAN SENTENCING FRIDAY ON FALSE STATEMENTS CHARGES

A Sunbury woman will be sentenced on Friday after being found guilty in April of providing false and misleading statements to police about the incident that led to the death of 3-year-old Arabella Parker in 2019. It was less than an hour for a Northumberland County jury on April 15 to convict Christy Willis, 51, of lying to authorities about her knowledge in the alleged beating death. Arabella, who state troopers say was severely beaten in October 2019 by Jahrid Burgess, 20, of Port Trevorton. Burgess was charged with homicide after Arabella died Nov. 22, 2019. The girl spent 44 days at Geisinger Medical Center, in Danville, before her death. Willis, who is currently incarcerated at the Northumberland County Jail, is scheduled to appear in front of Northumberland County Judge Hugh Jones at 9:15 a.m. Friday for sentencing.

 

 

 

BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS JULY 3, 2021

WIRETAPPING CHARGES

On June 28, Kevin Bradley of Williamsport was taken into custody for two felony offenses stemming from recording phone calls—one with Mayor Derek Slaughter and another with an employee of the Pennsylvania Supreme Court—without their knowledge.  Bradley then proceeded to post the videos on his YouTube channel. Both Mayor Slaughter and the employee, who identified herself in the video, said Bradley made no mention at anytime he was recording the conversation.  Bradley was charged with one count of interception of communications and three counts of disclosure intercepted communications.  Bradley was released on June 28 on $25,000 unsecured bail. His hearing is scheduled for July 8.

SHOTS FIRED IN WILLIAMSPORT

A Williamsport man has been charged with two felony counts after a Thursday night altercation between him and a woman that led to him allegedly firing shots off his porch.  Stephen Stavish of Williamsport allegedly fired four to six shots at the alleged victim as she moved personal items out of the house and off the porch at around 10:40 p.m. on July 1.  Unable to post the $75,000 bail, Stavish will remain incarcerated in the Lycoming County Prison until his preliminary hearing before District Judge Christian Frey July 13.

EDUCATIONAL FUNDING ALLOCATIONS

The Pennsylvania Department of Education posted a spreadsheet showing education funding allocations in the state budget for each school district on Wednesday. The latest approved budget includes the largest state funding increase for public schools in Pennsylvania history, with a $416 million increase and the new Level Up initiative, which will distribute an additional $100 million to the 100 lowest-wealth school districts.  The budget includes a $50 million increase to special education funding and $5 million to community colleges.

UPDATED COVID-19 DASHBOARD

The Pennsylvania Department of Health confirmed 304 new cases of COVID-19.  There was 1 new case of COVID-19 in each Lycoming, Northumberland, and Union County.

CLINT OWLETT’S BILL

Clint Owlett’s bill to help ensure justice is served in cases where children are victimized has been signed into law by the governor.  Currently, a victim must be age 12 or younger to enable hearsay statements in violent or sexual against children  The new law increases the maximum age to 16, meaning hearsay statements may be presented from child victims aged 16 and under.  Allowing the statements would remain at the judge’s discretion.  This law will go into effect in 60 days.

JULY 4 INCREASED POLICE PRESENCE

There will be a heavy police presence in the valley over the July 4 weekend with law enforcement keeping a watchful eye for drunk drivers.  Northumberland County Regional Police Traffic Services Project coordinator David Everly, along with many other law enforcers, all gathered together this week to offer a warning to the public that law enforcement throughout the valley and state will be looking for drunk drivers this holiday weekend. Everly said the reason the group gathers is to remind the public that making the poor decision to drink and drive could be the worst decision they ever made.

COVID-19 VACCINE CLINICS

The River Valley Regional YMCA Williamsport Branch has partnered with River Valley Health and Dental and Let’s End COVID! to hold four COVID-19 vaccine clinics throughout July.  Clinics will be held at the Williamsport Branch YMCA on July 7, 14, 21, and 28.  The clinics will be held from 1 to 4 p.m. in the YMCA Multi-Purpose Room.  Vaccines will be given by River Valley Health and Dental.  These clinics are open to the public and no appointment is necessary.  Anyone may walk –in to get the vaccine.  Patients must have a valid ID.

RE-CREATION

The United Churches of Lycoming County have sponsored a free concert by Re-Creation, a traveling group of musicians that runs over 300 shows per year and has performed for U.S. Presidents and foreign dignitaries.  The Williamsport show will be held at the New Covenant United Church of Christ in Williamsport.  Though the concert is free, donations are always appreciated. The concert will begin at 7 p.m. on Sunday, July 18.

TRAVEL OVER THE JULY 4TH HOLIDAY

Americans enjoying newfound liberty are expected to travel and gather for cookouts, fireworks, concerts and beach outings over the Fourth of July weekend in numbers not seen since pre-pandemic days.  Yet lingering restrictions, worker shortages may mean longer lines of waiting. AAA forecasts that more than 47 million people will travel by car or plane this weekend in the U.S., a return to 2019 levels and 40% higher than last year.  That includes 3.5 million airline passengers. While masks have been shed around the country even in indoor spaces, the Transportation Security Administration emphasizes that they are still required at airports and on planes.

ALCOHOL RELATED INCIDENTS

In 2020 there were 112 alcohol-related crashes from Friday, July 3 through Sunday, July 5, resulting in five fatalities, according  to PennDOT data.  There were 48 also drug-related crashes, resulting in five fatalities. Data from the Fish and Boat Commission shows that there were 60 boating-under-the-influence arrests in 2020, an increase from 45 in 2019.  Pennsylvania is a boating destination state, and boaters drive to and from their boating location. When an impaired boat operator gets behind the wheel to drive home, a BUI becomes a DUI. This week, representatives from PennDOT, Pennsylvania State Police, Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission, and the Office of the State Fire Commissioner are reminding Pennsylvanians to celebrate the Fourth of July weekend responsibility.

 

BACKYARD BROADCASTING JULY 5, 2021

FATAL PEDESTRIAN ACCIDENT

Just after 11 p.m, last evening, in the 900 Block of High Street, Williamsport, two pedestrians were struck, leaving one dead and the other transported to the hospital. The incident remains under investigation and details will be released when available.

FELONIES STEMMING FROM CRACK SALES

Alyia West, 38, of Williamsport is accused of selling crack to a confidential informant five times over the course of a month, according to detectives from the Lycoming County District Attorney’s office. Alyia West was charged with multiple felonies. Bail was set at $75,000 monetary.  She is detained at the Lycoming County Prison with a preliminary hearing set for July 15.

FENTANYL SALES SEND MONTGOMERY MAN TO JAIL

A Montgomery man was arrested after officers said he sold Fentanyl to a confidential informant twice. Donovan Scott Peterson was charged with two felonies. Detective Robert Anderson said on Nov. 23 of 2020, Peterson met with the CI in the Sheetz Parking lot on Maynard Street. Detectives witnessed a hand-to-hand deal with the CI for .3 grams of Fentanyl. On Dec. 15, Detectives said Peterson sold $140 worth of Fentanyl to the CI. According to northcentralpa.com, Peterson’s bail was set at $40,000 monetary. He is detained in the Lycoming County Prison with his next court appearance July 6.

FEDERAL CIVIL RIGHTS LAWSUIT AGAINST THOSE RESPONSIBLE FOR EXTREME BULLYING

A family in Union County who alleges their child was a victim of extreme bullying at Lewisburg Area School District filed a federal civil rights lawsuit. The lawsuit alleges the student, who attended Linntown Intermediate School in Lewisburg, was repeatedly called a rapist and pedophile based on a rumor that had circulated. The bullying, which began in November 2020, eventually caused the 14-year-old boy to suffer psychological effects, including depression, and physical illness, according to the complaint. The child eventually left the school and finished the academic year at a home school program.The complaint was filed at federal court in Williamsport on June 15 by the boy’s mother, Kathleen Kurtz, and his stepfather, Robert Straub. According to a media outlet, the district, accused of violating Title IX, thereby  not providing a safe learning environment for the student or addressing the bullying and sexual harassment by other students.

WILLIAMSPORT MAN HELD ON $50,000 BAIL

A preliminary hearing was scheduled this week for a Williamsport man, held on $50,000 monetary bail at the Lycoming County Prison. Michael Lamont Jones of Williamsport, is accused of selling crack to an undercover officer during two controlled buys. According to northcentralpa.com, detectives with the Lycoming County District Attorney’s office said in Oct. of 2018 they purchased approximately $100 worth of crack from Jones on two separate occasions. Jones was charged with two felonies.

26TH ANNUAL SET THE NITE TO MUSIC FIREWORKS EXTRAVANGAZA

The 26th Annual Set the Nite to Music Fireworks Extravaganza was a huge success yesterday, as the entire area filled with enthusiastic folks, who enjoyed food from on-site street vendors, live music from several bands and  a  huge fireworks display, set off from the Market Street Bridge. Mayor Derek Slaughter spoke at the event, dedicating it to essential workers.Special thanks to the Williamsport Bureau of Fire, Williamsport Bureau of Police, the Lycoming County Sheriff’s Office and UPMC EMS for your presence at the event.

26TH ANNUAL SEET THE NITE TO MUSIC FIREWORKS EXTRAVANGAZA

The 26th Annual Set the Nite to Music Fireworks Extravaganza was enjoyed by many yesterday. People filled the parking areas of the Hampton Inn to watch a world class fireworks display, fired off the Market Street Bridge. Mayor Derek Slaughter spoke before the fireworks. Special thanks to the Williamsport Bureau of Fire, Williamsport Bureau of Police, the Lycoming County Sheriff’s Office and UPMC EMS for your presence at the event.

NO DEATH PENALTY FACING TEXAS MAN IN 1ST DEGREE MURDER

A Texas man will not face a possible death penalty if he is convicted of first-degree murder in the slaying of a woman whose body was found on Interstate 80 in Pennsylvania earlier this year.Union County District Attorney D. Peter Johnson officially ruled out the possibility of capital punishment Thursday in the case of 29-year-old Tracy Ray Rollins Jr. of Dallas, according to an online media outlet. Johnson said he agreed not to seek the death penalty if Rollins waived his preliminary hearing, which he did in May.Rollins is charged with homicide and abuse of corpse in the death of 47-year-old Rebecca Landrith, whose body was found Feb. 7 along an I-80 eastbound ramp. Rollins remains jailed without bail and has waived formal arraignment in county court that was scheduled for July 26.

 

 

 

BACKYARD BROADCASTING JULY 2, 2021

ADDITIONAL FELONY CHARGES FROM FELONY ARREST WARRANT

A Williamsport woman fought and spat officers from the Williamsport Bureau of Police when they attempted to take her into custody for on a felony warrant. Jamie Leigh Kennedy, 25, of was charged with multiple second-degree felony charges stemming from an incident May 10.Officers received a warrant for that incident on June 11 and attempted to recover Kennedy at 628 Rose Street in Williamsport. Kennedy was given additional felony and misdemeanors and is being held at the Lycoming County Prison in lieu of $99,000 monetary bail.

DEVELOPMENT SITE FOR LYCOMING COLLEGE

In an announcement Wednesday, a mixed –use facility on college-owned property, along Basin St and between Third and Fourth Sts., will be the next site for development by Lycoming College with Pine Ridge Construction Management as the construction firm named on the letter of intent. The proposed development plans are for retail and dining establishments, office space, and residential units. Pine Ridge predicts construction to begin this fall in cooperation with the City of Williamsport, Lycoming County, and the regional development authority, according to northcentralpa.com.

CRASH OFF ROUTE 15 SENDS MAN TO HOSPITAL

The driver sustained serious injuries when his vehicle was struck by a tractor trailer on Route 15, Monday afternoon at 3:17 p.m.  Daniel J. Mitchell of Trout Run, was taken by ambulance to UPMC Williamsport, according to State Police at Montoursville. Both vehicles, Mitchell’s Ford pickup truck and the tractor trailer were traveling south just near the Cogan House exit. The tractor trailer, driven by Timothy P. Gentry of Chaumont, N.Y., struck Mitchell’s vehicle, causing it to veer from the roadway and down an embankment. Gentry were not injured, according to state police.

DRUG WARRANT AND SEARCH LEAD TO ARRESTS 

After witnessing several sales and speaking with an informant, authorities allege that two people ran a drug dealing “business” from a home located on Cherry Street in Williamsport. A warrant was approved and the search produced cocaine, heroin, and oxycodone along with $4,000 in cash. Tiffany Harman, 42, and Bruce Junior Perry, 60, both of Williamsport were charged with multiple felonies. Harman is being held at the Lycoming County Prison in lieu of $35,000 monetary bail as she awaits a preliminary hearing scheduled for July 13. Perry is free on $25,000 monetary bail after a bondsman posted it on June 3. She is scheduled for a preliminary hearing  July 27 with Judge Christian Frey.

HOSPITAL UPDATE ON MOTORCYCLE CRASH FROM JUNE 10

The condition of critically-injured motorcyclist Mickel Keeler, 52, of Jersey Shore, has been upgraded to fair, a nursing supervisor at Geisinger Medical Center, Danville, said yesterday. Keeler was injured when he lost control of his cycle and crashed in the 2700 block of North Pine Run Road in Woodward Township on June 10, according to state police.

UPMC URGES CAUTION AND SAFETY DURING 4TH OF JULY WEEKEND

As celebrations pick up during this year’s Fourth of July, UPMC Williamsport urges the public to take a pause to remember safety precautions. According to a news outlet, common injuries from fireworks include burns to hands, fingers and limbs. “Every year in the two weeks preceding and following the Fourth of July, we see about 70% of all the firework-related injuries that occur throughout the year,” said Dr. Jenny Ziembicki, director of UPMC said in an article on UPMC’s website. Fireworks not only are a threat for injury, but can also be a fire hazard if not handled correctly.

PENNSYLVANIA TASK FORCE 1

Governor Tom Wolf announced that 70 members of Pennsylvania-Task Force 1 were dispatched to assist with search and rescue efforrts at the site of last week’s deadly building collapse in Surfside. “We can only imagine the pain of those who have lost loved ones,” Wolf remarked, “Or are still waiting to hear about their loved ones.  PA Task Force 1 is one of 28 teams that are part of the National Urban Search and Rescue Response System and is a federal resource that can quickly be mobilized to deploy to incidents anywhere in the country.

NITTANY LIONS IN THE OLYMPICS

Penn State’s Gabe Castaño became the third Nittany Lion swimmer to make an Olympic team roster as the senior earned a spot on the Mexican National Team this week. He will compete in the 50-meter freestyle. As of yesterday, a host of 10 Nittany Lions are expected to represent their respective countries during the Tokyo Olympics, which begin later this month including Women’s volleyball,  men’s volleyball, wrestling and soccer.

WILLIAMSPORT CROSSCUTTERS VIRTUAL FOOD DRIVE

The Williamsport Crosscutters will be holding a virtual food drive at their game on July 8 to benefit the Central Pennsylvania Food Bank. During the Williamsport Crosscutters virtual food drive, fans can earn prizes by donating money to the Central Pennsylvania Food Bank. Incentive prizes include tickets, limited edition pins, bobble-heads, concession coupons, cutters souvenirs and more. Donation levels start at just $1.The donation portal is now open and will  close during the July 8 game  at the end of the 7th inning. Fans must attend the July 8 game to collect their incentive prize.

FIRE COMPANY AND EMERGENCY MEDICAL SERVICE GRANT PROGRAM

The Fire Company and Emergency Medical Service Grant Program helps relieve some of the challenges faced by first responders in their fundraising efforts. Joe Hopple, of Old Lycoming Township Vol. Fire Co., said the department is looking to upgrade and replace equipment.

The fire department will receive $13,480 and EMS, $8,890.The grant program, administered by the Office of the State Fire Commissioner, is available to all fire and EMS companies as well as volunteer rescue squads, according to state Sen. Gene Yaw, Loyalsock Township.

GOVERNOR TOM WOLF VETOED ANTI-VACCINATION LEGISLATION.

Governor Tom Wolf today vetoed Senate Bill 618, anti-vaccination legislation that would severely limit medical providers and the public from having access to vital information on vaccination rates and vaccine efficacy. According to Gov Wolf, This legislation is contradictory, misguided and irresponsible. This bill prohibits basic public health measures, which are necessary to curb infectious disease transmission and save lives.  Specifically, the bill eliminates the Department of Health’s ability to take disease control measures for any future contagious disease, resulting in the inability to contain the spread of infectious diseases in the Commonwealth or long after the current pandemic is over.

BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS JULY 1, 2021

LOCK HAVEN MAN FACES 31 FELONIES

A Lock Haven man faces upwards of 34 years in prison following a conviction of sexual crimes against a juvenile in 2020 when authorities said he intentionally mislead a young girl online to meet for sexual acts and to receive explicit photos. According to Clinton County District Attorney’s Officer, Lionel Darryl Jones, 26, is looking at 31 felony counts. Jones is to be evaluated by the Pennsylvania Sexual Offender Assessment Board to determine if he should be classified as a sexually violent predator. According to northcentralpa.com, Jones is scheduled for sentencing on September 20 at the Clinton County Court House.

SEXUAL CHARGES SEND MILTON MAN TO JAIL

A Milton man accused of allegedly forcing a juvenile girl under age 16 to perform sex acts, faces charges. In January, a child line tip led police to investigate and then charge Anthony R. Bach, 22, with multiple felonies. Bach was arraigned on June 10 at the office of District Judge Jeffrey A. Rowe in Lewisburg. Bail was set at $150,000 monetary and remanded to Union County Jail with a preliminary hearing July 29.

A HEALTH CARE PARTNERSHIP

A partnership to continue providing a high-quality health care system throughout Pennsdale, Muncy, Hughesville and Picture Rocks was renewed between UPMC in North Central Pa and the East Lycoming Ambulance Association.  According to SUN Gazette, this collaboration ensures communities in eastern Lycoming County to have access to superior Emergency Medical Services.

26TH ANNUAL SET THE NITE TO MUSIC

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

EAST BUFFALO TOWNSHIP SUCCESSFUL IN COURT FINDING

It was a win in Union County Court for East Buffalo Township in its dispute over regional police funding with the Borough of Lewisburg. According to an online media source, County President Judge Michael Hudock ruled in favor of the township, explaining it properly interpreted its intergovernmental agreement with the borough.Court papers say the borough’s lawsuit is now dismissed, but it has 30 days to appeal.

PENNSYLVANIA’S HIGHEST COURT OVERTURNS A CONVICTION

Pennsylvania’s highest court overturned Bill Cosby’s sex assault conviction yesterday  after finding an agreement with a previous prosecutor prevented him from being charged in the case. Pennsylvania prison system says Bill Cosby has been released after the conviction was overturned. Cosby has served more than two years of a three- to 10-year sentence at a state prison near Philadelphia vowing  to serve all 10 years rather than acknowledge any remorse over the 2004 encounter with accuser Andrea Constand, where the 83-year-old Cosby, was convicted of drugging and molesting the Temple University employee at his suburban estate.

GOVERNOR WOLF SIGNS STATE BUDGET

Gov.Tom Wolf yesterday signed a state budget, his office said in a release, that will help power the commonwealth’s recovery following the COVID-19 pandemic by making the largest investment in public education in state history, by investing in quality, affordable child care for parents who wish to return to the workforce and by helping Pennsylvanians struggling with mortgage or rent payments stay in their homes. The budget outlined in House Bill 1348 makes a historic $416 million increase in state funding for public education. The budget makes crucial investments to support the needs of schools and students, including a $200 million increase in the Fair Funding Formula, $100 million to support underfunded school districts through the Level Up initiative, $50 million in special education funding, $30 million for early education, $20 million for Ready to Learn, $11 million for preschool Early Intervention and $5 million for community colleges.

COVID-19 DASHBOARD FROM PA DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH

Pennsylvania’s new COVID-19 case total increased for the third day in a row on Wednesday as hospitalizations continued to decline across the state.The Department of Health registered 202 new cases on yesterday, ending a string of four days in a row with fewer than 200 cases. In the Valley, there were four new cases, including two in Northumberland County and one in both Snyder and Union counties. Montour County did not have any new cases for the sixth time in seven days. DOH officials announced that more than 11.6 million doses of COVID-19 vaccine have been administered in Pennsylvania, the fifth highest in the nation.

STORMS ROCK THE VALLEY

A quick-moving and powerful thunderstorm knocked power out to more than 2,500 homes yesterday in the Valley and tore the roof off of a storage building near a cemetery in Milton. With temperatures hovering near 100, thunderstorms kicked up across the Valley in the middle of the afternoon, sweeping through Union and northern Northumberland County around 4:30 p.m. According to PPL’s outage map, power was out to more than 1,000 customers last evening. Citizen’s Electric’s outage map showed more than 1,600 were left in the dark as well. A National Weather Service severe thunderstorm watch for Valley counties expired at 8 p.m., and by that time the temperature had dropped to 76 degrees, according to AccuWeather.

FELONY CHARGES ON FORMER ASSISTANT PRINCIPLE

Former Selinsgrove Middle School Assistant Principal Christopher S. Morrison pleaded guilty Tuesday to four counts of felony unlawful contact with a minor, involving Morrison soliciting sexually explicit images from four children, ages 11, 13 and 14. Morrison, 40, entered the plea before Snyder County Judge Michael H. Sholley with sentencing to occur this summer, according to the Daily Item. Morrison was serving as an assistant school principal last August according to state police at Selinsgrove when Morrison reached out to underage girls online. In court records, Morrison admitted soliciting young girls while under the influence of alcohol. He resigned from the school district last summer after the criminal charges were filed against him.

ONLINE TOURS OF THE LITTLE LEAGUE MUSEUM

The Little League Museum, 525 Route 15 in South Williamsport, has been closed since March 2020. But, even though their doors to the inside remain closed, the Little League Museum has adapted a sizeable social media presence and an outdoor walk-through exhibit accessible to anyone with a smartphone according to SUN Gazette. The audio-guided tour, with professionally recorded audio, allows visitors to learn about the history of the complex. Officials reported there is no specific timeline to reopen, but they are working toward that goal.

CAPITAL PROJECTS BUDGET FOR THE CITY

It was on first reading that the city council passed a six-year capital projects budget of $79.5 million, a combination projects to be considered priorities and some that may not receive funding at all. It was called the city version of a wish list and a planning tool that runs from July 1, 2022 through June 30, 2027. After the planning commission review council holds a second and final reading on the capital projects budget July 8.

AREA FIREWORKS

In addition to the 26 th annual Set the Night to Music Extravaganza, slated to shoot fireworks at 9:40 p.m. Sunday, July 4, sponsored by Backyard Broadcasting. Other fireworks shows include those being held in Montgomery, Jersey Shore, Watsontown, and Millville. Montgomery, Saturday July 3, fireworks at dusk from community park. Rain date is July 5. Watsontown, 9:15 p.m. Saturday, July 3. Jersey Shore, 9:45 p.m. Saturday, July 10 and also Millville, midnight, Saturday, July 10.

 

 

AMERICAN RESCUE PLAN ACT RECOVERY FUNDING

Lycoming County commissioners officially accepted the COVID-19 American Rescue Plan Act recovery funding of $22 million that can be used by the county for such needs as public health, economic impact, essential worker pay, and infrastructure. Municipalities are receiving their own share of American Rescue funding. It was noted that the application deadline for the money is June 30.

PENN COLLEGE AND COMMUNITY ARTS CENTER

Effective July 1, staff working at the Arts Center, a wholly owned subsidiary of Penn College, become employees of the college. According to Penn College, this transition “further strengthens the college’s commitment to the venue’s long-term stability.” Penn College extensively renovated and reopened the Community Arts Center, the former Capitol Theatre, in 1993. Since then, the college has increasingly subsidized operational and infrastructure costs associated with the 2,100-seat West Fourth Street facility.

A NEWLY UPDARTED HEALTH AND SAFETY PLAN FOR JERSEY SHORE AREA SCHOOL DISTRICT

The Jersey Shore Area School District is not requiring students to wear masks upon returning to school, as they are keeping with the state ending its mask mandate.  According to a media outlet, the school’s updated health and safety plan states the district “will comply with all state orders in effect and notify staff and families of any necessary changes while operating schools.” Other aspects of the health and safety plan include modifications to allow for physical distancing and handwashing and respiratory etiquettes. The updated health and safety plan takes effect August 1st.

NEW SPECIES IN THE SUSQUEHANNA

The first evidence of a Golden Redhorse, a smaller-bodied sucker fish, in the Susquehanna River, has been discovered. According to SUN Gazette, in particular, the Golden Redhorse population is abundant in the drainage basins of the lower Missouri River, Ohio River, and the Mississippi River. Ryan Shaw, a recent graduate of the Mansfield University fisheries program, along with his co-authors published findings of his senior research project in the Northeastern Naturalist. Ryan, used a molecular technique called genetic barcoding to provide the first evidence of a Golden Redhorse in the Susquehanna River.

GEISINGER WALK IN COVID-19 VACCINES

Geisinger continuing walk in COVID-19 vaccines this week at its vaccine centers. Thursday, July 1 at Geisinger Jersey Shore Hospital, 1020 Thompson Street, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. and also at Geisinger Hughes Vaccine Center, 9 Stearns Lane, from 9 a.m. to 1130 a.m.. In addition, the vaccines are available by appointment at Geisinger Phillipsburg in Centre County.  Geisinger is offering the Pfizer vaccine; a two-dose vaccine administered 21 days apart.  They are available to anyone age 12 and older.

ACCUSED MURDERER’S ATTORNEY REQUESTING A MENTAL EVALUATION FOR HIS CLIENT

Accused murderer Matthew J. Reed’s lawyer is asking for a mental health evaluation for his client. Reed, 23, who had been living at Haven Ministry, a homeless shelter in Sunbury, is accused by Stonington state police of killing three people in a Snydertown home earlier this month. Reed walked into Shamokin District Judge John Gembic’s courtroom yesterday and waived his preliminary hearing. According to the Daily Item, Reed was taken back to Northumberland County Jail where he will remain until his trial, as Judge Gembic denied bail.

DANGEROUS DOMESTIC SENDS TWO PEOPLE TO JAIL

On June 20, Kyle Lee Crain and Lena Ann Jenkins, both of Williamsport, reportedly engaged in an argument. Jenkins told Williamsport Bureau of Police that the fighting, at first verbal, turned physical. June 21 at 6:24 p.m., police units were dispatched to 1500 High Street with shots fired. According to northcentralpa.com, Crain and Jenkins, each armed with a firearm, threatened each other to the point of shooting.  Crain and Jenkins face multiple felonies and misdemeanors and their bail was denied. Both are in Lycoming County Jail.

CATALYTIC CONVERTER THEFT

Catalytic converters on the underside of vehicles help reduce emissions. But according to a recent NPR report, rising prices for some metals has led to a rise in thefts. State Police in Milton are investigating a catalytic converter theft, from a parked, broken-down vehicle on Interstate 180 in Northumberland County. According to a media source, police received a report on June 26 that the catalytic converter was removed from a 2002 Honda Civic Del Sol parked near mile marker 5 in Delaware Township. The Milton State Police are investigating.

WIRETAPPING IN OLD LYCOMING TOWNSHIP

An Old Lycoming Township resident did broadcast recorded conversations without permission onto YouTube, a social media site. Kevin Ray Bradley faces wiretapping and related offenses alleging he did not inform Mayor Derek Slaughter, or a state Supreme Court Deputy Prothonotary, Amy Dreibelbis, that he was recording their conversations. Arraigned before District Judge Aaron Biichle, bail was set at $25,000 with a preliminary hearing before Biichle on July 8.

CORONAVIRUS DISASTER DECLARATION 

Lycoming County commissioners voted to extend the Coronavirus Disaster Declaration for 90 days during its regular weekly meeting. According to a media source, with an extension, the county remains eligible for federal funding to help organizations and individuals impacted by COVID-19. According to Jeff Hutchins, director of Public Safety noted even though numbers of COVID-19 infections have significantly dropped, it would be prudent to extend the declaration at least one last time.

COMMERCIAL FIRE ON GOLDEN STRIP

The McDonald’s on the Golden Strip will be out of commission for due to a commercial fire that affected parts of the restaurant on Monday night, according to an online media outlet. Nobody was harmed in the incident, which was quickly put out, according to Asst. Chief Rich Caschera of the Loyalsock Volunteer Fire Company. “Loyalsock and Montoursville units arrived to find a fire in a fryer that extended into the ventilation system.”  McDonald’s will remain closed for around a week until the damage is repaired.

BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS JUNE 29, 2021

IDENTIFICATION OF DECEASED MAN FROM CRASH YESTERDAY RELEASED

On Sunday, the Lycoming County Coroner’s Office was called to the scene of a Tractor Trailer roll over on the ramp from Rt 15 South onto Rt 220 South. Jason Brown, 47, of Troy, was traveling south bound on the ramp when he lost control of the truck, which rolled over, ejecting him out of the cab due to being unrestrained. The press release indicated he died at 4 am and the cause of death was due to multiple blunt force trauma and head trauma. The investigation continues by the Williamsport Bureau of Police and the Lycoming County Coroner’s Office.

WELFARE OF CHILDREN CHARGE AGAINST WILLIAMSPORT WOMAN

A 20-year-old Williamsport mother is facing a felony endangering the welfare of children charge. Williamsport Bureau of Police responded on May 15 at 8:25 p.m. for three juveniles being left unattended in a vehicle for several hours. Naionna Marie Banks, who officers said left the kids in the parking lot, was discovered around midnight when authorities received a call for an overdose  nearly two blocks away from where the children were found. No bail was listed for Banks.

DRUG CHARGES FOLLOWING TRAFFIC STOP

South Williamsport Police officers said as they spoke with the driver of a recently pulled over vehicle, they could smell marijuana almost immediately. Police identified the driver as Kyle Rashawn Scott, 32, of Philadelphia, who was then taken into custody and his vehicle impounded. Scott was charged with felony manufacture, delivery, or possession with intent to manufacture or deliver. He was detained on $75,000 monetary bail to the Lycoming County Prison and scheduled to appear before Judge Aaron Biichle on July 12 for a preliminary hearing.

FORMAL ARRAIGNMENT FOR 19 YEAR OLD 

Monday, July 26 is the date set for the first appearance in Clinton County Court for the teenager charged with homicide in the shooting death of Jakob Lee Haines on Feb 26 in Woodward Township. Brian St. John III, 19, is set for a formal arraignment in court on July 26. He remains incarcerated at the Clinton County Correctional Facility after his arrest.

SEXUAL ASSAULT CHARGES FOR MONTOURSVILLE MAN

A Montoursville man allegedly sexually assaulted a female minor earlier this month, as reported by a media outlet. Kryshane K. Go as, 25,  allegedly assaulted the girl on June 13 at a gathering and later at a residence, according to state police. Go as faces sexual assault and related offenses in the case. Go as was arraigned by on-duty District Judge Jerry Lepley over the weekend and is awaiting a preliminary hearing in front of District Judge Gary Whiteman.

AMERICAN RESCUE PLAN FUNDS IN THE CITY

A meeting is set to occur in mid-July, according to Mayor Derek Slaughter for his administration and City Council to have a joint public working session to discuss use of the $25.8 million of American Rescue Plan funds. The funds, part of a $1.9 trillion package signed by President Joe Biden in March, as reported by a media outlet. The funds are expected in two installments and must be spent by the end of 2024.

FORMER GOVERNOR RIDGE RELEASED FROM HOSPITAL

Tom Ridge, former governor of Pennsylvania, from 1995-2001,  and the first U.S. Secretary of Homeland Security, was discharged from the hospital on Sunday and transferred to a rehabilitation facility in Washington, D.C., according to the Daily Item. Ridge, 75, suffered a stroke at his residence in Bethesda, Md. on June 16 and underwent a successful procedure to remove a blood clot.

FELONY SEX OFFENSE CHARGES FOR LOCK HAVEN MAN

Lionel Darryl Jones, 26, of Lock Haven pled guilty in Clinton County Court yesterday to several sex offenses that he committed in early 2020. Jones plead before President Judge Craig P. Miller to four felony sex offense charges. Jones was ordered to be evaluated by the Pennsylvania Sexual Offender Assessment Board to determine if he should be classified as a Sexually Violent Predator (SVP). Sentencing will be held on Sept. 20 at the Clinton County Court House.

PPL’S COVER TO COVER INITIATIVE

The focus of a $2,500 grant given to the James V. Brown Library is improving literacy for children. The grant is from the PPL Foundation and Cover to Cover, according to northcentralpa.com, helps children who would otherwise miss out on reading and learning opportunities in the summer.  The funds support the library’s Summer Learning 2021 Program as part of PPL’s Cover to Cover initiative to improve child literacy. PPL Foundation has supported literacy programs by providing approximately 400 books for children in grades K-3 to build their home libraries.

BACKYARD BROADCASTING JUNE 28, 2021

PHELPS MILLS CANOE LAUNCH

The Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR) Secretary Cindy Adams Dunn and Deputy Secretary John Norbeck joined the Northcentral Pennsylvania Conservancy (NPC) for a dedication ceremony at the Phelps Mills Canoe Launch on Pine Creek in the Tiadaghton State Forest in Clinton County. According to northcentralpa.com, the ceremony formally welcomed Phelps Mill Canoe Launch on Pine Creek under the Bureau of Forestry umbrella, which has been managed as a part of Tiadaghton State Forest since late 2019 when DCNR purchased the property.

USE OF STOLEN CREDIT CARDS

When city police accused John Dennis Best of allegedly using a woman’s missing credit card three times, Best told them “the devil made me do it,” according to an affidavit filed at the office of District Judge Christian Frey. The card belonged to Lisa Rollins. Best first used it at Conoco Gas Station, Weis Market, then it was on to Shoe Carnival. Police report Best has been sent a summons to appear before the judge for the multiple charges that were filed on him.

CONCERT CANCELLED

Without much warning, the Bloomsburg Fair announced the Brad Paisley concert, Sept. 26 at the Fairgrounds, cancelled without any reason as of yet. However, the fair reported the tickets will be automatically refunded.

MUNCY MAN CHARGED WITH RAPE

Muncy man was charged with rape. Muncy Borough Police allege Patrick Racey, raped a woman, despite her yelling for him to stop, according to court papers filed last week with District Judge John E. Kemp. According to a media outlet, the incident occurred inside a residence between Nov 29th and Dec 7th.  Following his arraignment last week on multiple assault charges and rape, he was released on $50,000 bail.

75TH ANNIVERSARY FOR LOCAL FIRE COMPANY

The Clinton Township Volunteer Fire Company celebrates their 75th anniversary with the arrival of a new pumper truck and receipt of a proclamation acknowledging their anniversary from the Lycoming County Commissioners. Also, Congressman Fred Keller was on hand to present the fire company with recognition from Congress. The fire company handles about 600 calls for fire, rescue and ambulance services per year.

FATAL SUNDAY MORNING CRASH

Early Sunday morning, the driver of a rig hauling fracking water used in the natural gas industry was killed when his vehicle rolled over at the Route 220 spur in Williamsport, heading towards Lock Haven, according to the county coroner. The driver from Bradford County lost control of the rig about 3 a.m. His name was withheld pending notification of the family, according to Lycoming County Coroner Charles E. Kiessling Jr. Police are investigating as to a cause of the crash.

GAS PRICES ON THE RISE

Pennsylvania gas prices have risen 0.9 cents per gallon in the past week, averaging $3.19/g today, according to GasBuddy’s daily survey of 5,269 stations in Pennsylvania. Gas prices in Pennsylvania are 75.5 cents per gallon higher than a year ago. According to GasBuddy price reports, the cheapest station in Pennsylvania is priced at $2.92/g today while the most expensive is $3.85/g. Patrick De Haan, head of petroleum analysis for GasBuddy. “As we approach July 4, it appears the only way forward is for gas prices to continue their rise motorists should prepare to dig deeper for the second half of the summer.”

LYCOMING COUNTY DEMOCRATIC WOMEN MEETING

Candidates for local elected and state judicial seats met with a Lycoming County Democratic Women group to speak to members about why they represent the best choices for voters. Among the Democrats talking to the gathering at Susquehanna Park Thursday night were Lauren Baumann Frisco, who is running for Loyalsock Township supervisor, and McKenna Long, a candidate for Hughesville Borough Council. Judicial candidates were Laurie Dumas, Maria McLaughlin, and Timika Lane, as reported by SUN Gazette.  The common thread, which spread from local government to the state was the need to listen to constituents.

EMERGENCY OWNER-OCCUPIED SINGLE FAMILY HOME REHABILITATION

City Council approved a resolution for an “Emergency Owner-Occupied Single Family Home Rehabilitation” application for Ronald Rummings and Linda Woodring who are qualified for the program. Woodring is the daughter of Margaret Woodring, city controller and loan review committee member. As reported by SUN Gazette, the notice of the proposed repair resolution was advertised in the newspaper or record and was reviewed by council and the city finance committee, which gave it a positive recommendation.

MCCRACKEN HEATING & COOLING

The Lycoming County Housing Authority, at its regular monthly meeting, approved McCracken Heating & Cooling for work involving installation of 80 furnaces and 80 water heaters at the Michael Ross development in Williamsport. McCracken’s bid of $89,000 was the lowest of among several firms for the work set for July with the purchase of the heaters and furnaces was approved by the board in April, according to a media outlet.

LIFE SKILLS AND GOLF PROGRAM

The Lycoming County Housing Authority, at its regular monthly meeting, approved a partnership with Williamsport Area Junior Golf to provide a golf and life skills program for youths, a program is similar to the First Tee program backed by the Professional Golfers Association. In other news, according to a media source, the authority reported that charge-offs, uncollected rents or unpaid expenses, for the month of May amounted to $728.94, bringing the total charge-offs to $11,295 for the year.

WOODCOCK FOUNDATION APPRECIATION OF THE ARTS GRANT

The Community Arts Center announced it is the recipient of a $10,000 grant from The Woodcock Foundation for the Appreciation of the Arts. The funds will be used to underwrite the Student Summer Stock production of “SpongeBob the Musical.” According to SUN Gazette, every summer, the Student Summer Stock extends an offer to 7th through 12th grade students with the opportunity to participate in the production of a Broadway-type musical onstage at the Community Arts Center in the historic Martin Theatre.

$40 BILLION STATE BUDGET

Gov. Tom Wolf has announced his support for a nearly $40 billion state budget that was passed by the legislature on Friday. The state House approved the measure, 140-61, the Senate a short while later, 43-7. This budget adds $416 million, the largest single-year education funding increase in state history, raising the increase in annual education funding during Gov. Wolf’s term to more than $1.8 billion. The governor said he will sign the budget next week.

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