ACQUITTAL OF WILLIAMSPORT MAN

It was a 30 minute deliberation for a jury in Lycoming County to unanimously acquit a Williamsport man accused of selling cocaine to a county detective. According to a media outlet, Christopher Peter White of Williamsport was found not guilty on felony drug-related charges after his arrest in October 2019 by Lycoming County Detective Jonathan Rachael, who reported White sold cocaine to an undercover Narcotics Enforcement Unit detective in Williamsport in Jan.

FIREARMS CHARGE

A North Carolina man arrested by the Lycoming County Detectives in 2019 recently pleaded guilty to a felony firearms charge. Tahjair I. Dorsey, of Durham, North Carolina, illegally possessed a Glock 19 9mm with a fully-loaded 30-round extended magazine on Sept. 23, according to Lycoming County Detectives. Dorsey was sentenced by Lycoming County President Judge Nancy L. Butts for a minimum of six months and a maximum of 24 months less one day in county jail. As part of Dorsey’s sentence imposed by Butts, he must pay the costs of prosecution, provide a DNA sample and a $250 DNA collection fee, forfeit $203 and perform 50 hours of community service. According to the SUN Gazette, Dorsey has been confined to the Lycoming County Prison since Jan. 11.

YOUNGER PEOPLE SOON  TO RECEIVE VACCINES 

COVID-19 vaccines finally are headed for more kids as U.S. regulators on Monday expanded use of Pfizer’s shot to those as young as 12. Shots could begin as soon as a federal vaccine advisory committee issues recommendations for using the two-dose vaccine in 12- to 15-year-olds, expected Wednesday. Canada recently became the first to expand use to 12 and up. Next up is testing whether the vaccine works for even younger children. Both Pfizer and Moderna have begun U.S. studies in children ages 6 months to 11 years.

DOMESTIC ALTERCATION 

Javona Bateman of 1208 Isabella St., picked up a machete and swung it at her boyfriend, during a domestic altercation, causing an injury about 3:40 a.m. on April 8, according to city police. The boyfriend was unnamed in the police affidavit. The two were having an argument when she grabbed a machete that was hanging on a bedroom wall and began swinging it, striking the boyfriend in the chest, causing a six-inch long laceration, police said. Charged with simple assault and possession of an instrument of crime, Bateman was arraigned before District Judge Christian Frey and released on $15,000 bail. She has since been held for court on both charges, according to SUN Gazette.

COVID-19 DASHBOARD

The PA Dept. of Health  has released updated COVID-19 Dashboard numbers and locally:  Lycoming: 24 Tioga 6 Bradford: 30 Sullivan: 30 Columbia: 16 Montour: 4 Northumberland: 13 Union:  3 Snyder: 5 Centre: 16 Clinton: 3

SENATE BILL 664

Lawmakers on the Pennsylvania Senate Education Committee unanimously endorsed a bill yesterday that gives students a chance to repeat a grade after falling behind from COVID-19 disruptions.  In addition, Senate Bill 664 would give parents the option to voluntarily hold their child back Also, it allows special education students aging out of the system at 21-year-old to extend enrollment an additional year.

The bill moves to the Senate for consideration.

SEXUAL ASSAULT 

A Middleburg man was convicted of the sexual assault of a young female, allegedly over the course of five years, from 1992-1997.  Snyder County DA says 59-year-old Claude Sprenkel was convicted on 10 counts each of felony involuntary deviate sexual intercourse and misdemeanor indecent assault. According to an online media outlet,  Judge Louise Knight granted the DA’s motion to revoke Sprenkel’s bail pending sentencing, and he’ll remain jailed in Snyder County Prison until then. The DA is seeking a lengthy state prison sentence.The victim first reported the crimes to state troopers in September 2018 and Sprenkel was charged in November 2018.

 

Sports

High School Softball

Jersey Shore over Montgomery 4-2;

Muncy shut out Columbia Montour VoTech 11-0;

Boys Tennis

Lewisburg’s Cecchini wins District 4 Class AA singles

High School Baseball

Southern Columbia over Loyalsock 11-8; Sayre over Cowanesque Valley 12-1;

Canton shut out Williamson 21-0;Muncy shut out Columbia Montour VoTech 10-0

 

Boys Lacrosse

Lewisburg over Danville 20-9

BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS MAY 8, 2021

FIRST FRIDAY STREET FESTIVAL

This year’s restart of the monthly First Friday Street Festival, postponed for more than a year, due to COVID-19 pandemic, was basically washed out by inclement weather. Beth Armanda one of the co-chairs for the First Friday Committee, said to never count First Friday out. Armanda added that June’s First Friday will be back to normal, with anywhere between 50 to 70 vendors on West Fourth and Pine Streets, including arts and crafts, non-profits, food and live music to be seen on Pine Street and out front of the Community Arts Center. Lycoming Arts will also have another art project going on in their building.

RIDDELL HELMET LAWSUIT

The co-guardians of a Jersey Shore youth seriously injured in a football practice have sued the helmet manufacturer in a federal court. Danielle Leone and Jacob Leone, co-guardians of Caleb Leone, have sued Riddell, Inc. according to the U.S. Middle District Court records. They alleged Leone was wearing a Riddell helmet when injured during an August 14, 2018 high school football practice when he sustained an impact to his head. They alleged the helmet was defective and are seeking damages for various personal injuries as a result, according to the complaint. The Leones’ claim these companies were aware of the helmet defects. The plaintiffs in the case are seeking interests in excess of $75,000.

DROPPED CHARGES

In a plea agreement, this one before District Judge William Solomon, Maleak Benjamin 24, of 1638 Andrews Place, pled guilty to Old Lycoming Township Police charges of possession of marijuana and driving without a license. He has been ordered to pay the $250 fine plus court costs. As part of the arrangement, police dropped a charge of possession of drug paraphernalia. The charges stemmed from an incident in the 1800 block of Lycoming Creek Road on Feb. 13.

FELONY BURGLARY CHARGE

A man in Tioga County was charged after he allegedly entered a victim’s residence through a window and stole power, police report. Darren Hudick, Mansfield, allegedly entred through a window and used extension cords to steal power. Hudick had a preliminary hearing on May 5 at the office of District Judge Tiffany Cummings in which a felony burglary charge and misdemeanor theft by unlawful taking charge were dropped. Hudick is now in Tioga County Jail in lieu of $10,000 monetary bail.

UPDATED DASHBOARD FOR COVID-19

The Pennsylvania Department of Health confirmed 2,986 cases of COVID-19. There were 22 new cases in Centre County, 21 in Columbia, 20 in Union , 20 in Northumberland, 15 in Lycoming and 6 in Montour.

COMMUNITY THEATER LEAGUE

The Community Theater  League is vacating the third floor space at the Trade and Transit Center Building on West Third Street in Williamsport as early as next Friday. Presently, the CTL occupies the first and third floors of the building. The first floor houses the main stage and the box office, while the third floor holds the administrative offices and almost all of the educational/workshop space. The hope is that all parties involved in the dispute can come to an agreement.

DOMESTIC VIOLENCE

Weldon Fletcher, 1421 West Fourth Street, has been jailed on charges of allegedly threatening a woman and her son with a machete and a handgun. Police responded to Fletcher’s home to handle a domestic situation around 4:30 am Thursday. Police said Fletcher allegedly threatened Shawee Gaines and her son with a machette following an argument between Fletcher and Gaines inside  the  home. Following his arraignment before District Judge Christian Frey on charges of aggravated and simple assault, terroristic threats. recklessly endangering and possession of an instrument of crime, Fletcher was committed to the Lycoming County Prison in lieu of $50,000 bail.

CHILD ENDANGERMENT

Conspiracy child endangerment charges were added yesterday to the cases of Matthew and Christine Zeigler, accused of abusing their either children over a decade. Three if Zeigler’s children are minors and remain in the dependancy system. With all Lycoming County Judges recused, Potter County Court of Common Pleas Senior Judge John B Leete presided. Leete gave the Commonweath a 30-day extension to attempt to gather more discovery materials.

SNYDER COUNTY CONSERVATION DISTRICT TREES

Flats of blueberry, serviceberry, eastern redbud, river oak and eastern sycamore trees arrived at the Snyder County Conservation District on Tuesday, May 4. PPL Electric Utilities staff with distribute thousands of these trees this coming week to conservation organizations, municipalities, and fourth graders as part of its free tree program. Started in 2017, the PPL Community Roots program has brought more than 90,000 free trees to 29 counties in Pennsylvania. This week’s delivery is just in time for spring planting.

NEW BUSINESS IN LOCK HAVEN

Ashey Foltz came to Lock Haven University in 2003 to pursue her dream of becoming a physician assistant. Five years later, after completing LHU’s  “3+2” PA program, Foltz graduated in 2006 with a bachelor’s and a master’s degree. She has now opened the Skeleton Key Boutique in Lock Haven. The Skeleton Key Boutique mainly sells women’s clothing, but also offers accessories, shoes, a beauty collection and home selection. There is also a small selection of men’s clothing. Sizes range from XS-3X, with a wide array of sizes.

UNSWORN FALSIFICATION CHARGES

In a plea agreement before District Judge Jerry Lepley in Jersey Shore, Tiadaghton Valley Regional Police dropped a charge of illegal sale of a firearm against Aidan Sweeley, 21, of Avis, after he agreed to plead guilty to a charge of making unsworn falsification to authorities. The charges stemmed from Sweeley putting down false information on a form where he attempted to purchase a firearm at  National Sporting Goods on Allegheny Street in the borough last June 24, police alleged. Sweeley made arrangements to pay a $495 fine plus court costs.

WILLIAMSPORT CROSSCUTTERS

Williamsport Crosscutters single game tickets for opening night and all home games will go on sale Saturday, May 15 at 10 am for the inaugural season in the MLB Draft League. The Cutters open the 2021 campaign on Tuesday, May 25, hosting the rival State College Spikes at 7:05pm. Opening night 2021, presented by UPMC and WILQ, will feature a schedule magnet giveaway and post-game fireworks. The Crosscutters box office at Muncy Bank Ballpark is open Monday-Friday from 10am to 5pm and Saturdays, prior to Opening Night, from 10am to 2pm on May 15 and 22. Tickets can be charged by phone at (570) 326-3389 or online at crosscutters.com. Opening night, May 25, will be limited to 600 fans duet o capacity and social distancing restrictions.

 

BACKYARD BROADCASTING MAY 10, 2021

WARRIOR RUN SCHOOL DISTRICT CONSTRUCTION PROJECT

After only one month into construction, the Warrior Run School District’s $37 million construction project, which includes an elementary school and stadium, will meet the projected completion date of August 2022. The three story elementary school, which was approved in 2019, will be able to accommodate upwards of 850 students, according to the SUN Gazette.

JAIL TIME FOR HEROIN CHARGES

A Williamsport man, responsible for  heroin overdoses,  received a 25 year prison sentence. Raymond Howard, sentenced to 300 months’ imprisonment followed by a four-year term of supervised release,  by U.S. Middle District Court Judge Matthew W. Brann. According to Acting U.S. Attorney Bruce D. Brandler, Howard’s distribution of a mixture of heroin and Carfentanil in 2017 caused UPMC Susquehanna in Williamsport and Wellsboro to treat 51 such cases of overdoses within a 48-hour period, according to an online media outlet.

FENTANYL CHARGES TO WILLIAMSPORT MAN 

In charges filed April 26, Williamsport man delivered fentanyl to a confidential informant in 2019. Nazeer K. Burks, 27, is accused by Lycoming County Detective Kevin M. Dent of delivering suspected heroin, which turned out to be fentanyl, three times in 2019, according to northcentralpa.com. Burks was charged with multiple felony counts and confined to the Lycoming County Prison since April 16 in lieu of $85,000 monetary bail set by Lycoming County Magisterial District Judge Christian D. Frey.

 CHARGES FOR PROVIDING A CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE TO A JUVENILE 

When a juvenile became very ill from smoking marijuana, city police tracked down Ariana Noel Guiser, 19, charged her on April 20 with multiple misdemeanors. According to Williamsport Bureau of Police Guiser gave marijuana to a juvenile in the 800 block of West 3rd Street. At 7:10 p.m. on March 20, emergency crews were dispatched to a residence for a possible overdose. There, the juvenile told police where they could find Guiser and Travis Johnson. According to northcentralpa.com, Johnson was also charged with one misdemeanor count of intentional possession of a controlled substance by a person not registered.

WILLIAMSPORT CITY BODYCAMS

Williamsport Bureau of Police Chief Damon Hagan, lead of Lycoming County’s largest police department, has expressed an interest in body cameras for his officers. Mayor Derek Slaughter noted the interest has been there for many years and the department has his full support. With a price tag of upwards of $190,000, funding could be the biggest burden, according to northcentralpa.com. Other valley police departments have implemented use of police body cameras with success. Departments such as the City of Sunbury and the Borough of Northumberland use the cameras and Point Township Police will implement the technology this month.

 MAIL IN DEADLINE FOR MAY 18 PRIMARY

Tuesday, May 11 at 5pm is the last day for Pennsylvania registered voters to apply for a mail-in or civilian absentee ballot for the May 18 primary election. According to therecordonline.com,  there are two vote-by-mail options in Pennsylvania: Any registered voter can apply for a mail-in ballot without a reason. Absentee ballots are for voters away from their election precinct on election day, or have an illness or disability preventing their in-person voting.

SEXUAL ASSAULT OF A JUVENILE IN SNYDER COUNTY

A Selinsgrove man was charged with sexually assaulting a young girl in Union County. Justyn Holmes, 42, now faces multiple felonies and misdemeanors. The incidents reportedly began in June 2008 when the girl was 6 years old, according to the Pennsylvania State Police arrest affidavit and continued until December 2010, according to northcentralpa.com. Charges were filed against Holmes on April 27 at the office of District Judge Jeffrey C. Mensch in Mifflinburg.

150 TH LYCOMING COUNTY FAIR

Signs of normalcy continue to return to the area as the 150th  Lycoming County Fair is confirmed for July 14 to 24 at the fairgrounds in Hughesville. Technically, last year was the fair’s 150th year but it was canceled due to the pandemic. The fair, which started in 1868, only canceled two other times during World War II, according to an online media outlet. For the 2021 season, fair goers can expect rides, food vendors, demolition derbies, tractor pulls and of course, the animals. The fair also will have a few new shows and activities that will be announced in two weeks.

DEATH A FCI ALLENWOOD

According to WNEP, following a fight on Saturday at FCI Allenwood, Union County, an inmate is dead.  According to the Department of Justice, two inmates were fighting. Adrian Payne, 50, was transported to a local hospital with life-threatening injuries and later died.  A second inmate, whose name was not released, was treated at the prison for minor injuries.  Payne was charged in New York and serving a life sentence for racketeering, murder, drug, and gun charges.

BACKYARD BROADCASTING MAY 7, 2021

CROSSCUTTERS ON UPCOMING RELAXED MANDATES

Following the Governor Tom Wolf’s orders, 33 of the Cutters’ 34 home games in the first year of the MLB Draft League will be able to have as many fans as Bowman Field can hold. According to SUN Gazette, the home opener on May 25, is the only event subject to limitations at sports stadiums including capacity at 50% and 6 feet social distancing. The relaxed mandates forced the Cutters to shut down its online ticketing system temporarily. The availability of single-game tickets to the general public has also been put on hold until the middle of next week.

PUBLIC SCHOOLS LOOKING FOR STATE FUNDING

Public school superintendents spoke at the PA Schools Work Campaign Regional press conference at the district service center yesterday, warning that a “flat funding” model of state aid to districts won’t meet educational needs and can result in tax increases with fewer services now and in the future. Federal funding was not advised for reoccurring costs to the districts. However, one example of a recurring cost is cyber charter tuition. Those expenses are increasing by nearly $500,000 or 21 percent in Williamsport.

NO MEMORIAL PARADE IN MUNCY BOROUGH 

Muncy Borough Council turned down a request from the Muncy Veterans of Foreign Wars to host a Memorial Day parade citing compliance issues with Pennsylvania Department of Transportation policies. PennDOT also requires an indemnification releasing the department from liability if there is an accident or injury during the parade. In addition, condition of the route is questioned. There are safety concerns if the road is milled and not paved.

LOYALSOCK TOWNSHIP ODYSSEY OF THE MIND COMPETITORS 

The Loyalsock Township School Board approved a request from Michelle Bartley, Loyalsock’s Odyssey of the Mind coordinator, for a contribution of one-third of the total expenditures for student participation in the World Finals Odyssey of the Mind Competition. The World Final Competition will be held in Orlando tentatively from June 9 through June 14. According to the SUN Gazette,the next board meeting will be at 7 p.m. May 12 at the district board room, 1605 Four Mile Drive.

CITY SURVEY FOR CITY PARKS

A community survey of city parks is the next project for the city accessibility advisory commission. The survey is a query of city residents and others offering them a chance to answer questions on their viewpoints of city parks, to ensure accessibility needs are met throughout the city. The commission also aims to gain a perspective on how much each of the city-owned parks are used, according to a media outlet.

COVID DASHBOARD FOR TODAY

The Pennsylvania Department of Health released an updated COVID-19 dashboard and locally Lycoming County 27 cases; Clinton 6; Tioga 12; Sullivan 3; and Northumberland 15 cases.

WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT ACT OF 2001

A bill has been introduced which could amend the Workforce Development Act of 2001 of which Pa. is not fully in compliance, according to Northcentralpa.com. The bill goal is to get our state into compliance with federal requirements of the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act. The bill would establish state and local workforce development boards aimed at creating  and maintaining effective programs, training, and best practices which would prepare workers for higher-paying, family-sustaining jobs.

HOMICIDE SUSPECT WAVES PRELIMINARY 

Homicide suspect Tracy Ray Rollins Jr., 29, a truck driver from Dallas, Texas, waived his right to a preliminary hearing yesterday in front of District Justice Jeffrey Mensch. Rollins is accused of slaying former model Rebecca Landrith, of Virginia,  and allegedly leaving her body off an Interstate 80 ramp near Loganton in western Union County, sometime overnight between Feb. 6 and 7. His formal arraignment is at 8:30 a.m. July 26 at the Union County Court. According to an online media outlet, the maximum penalty for criminal homicide ranges from the death penalty to life prison.

FELONY SUSPECT EXTRADITED FROM SOUTH CAROLINA

The office of Clinton County District Attorney Dave Strouse said yesterday that Terrence Summers, has been extradited from South Carolina to answer charges stemming from an incident that allegedly took place on June 21, 2019 on South Hanna Street in Castanea Township:. According to therecordonline.com, Summers faces multiple charges when, according to Pennsylvania State Police, Summers is alleged to have committed an armed robbery of the Fuel On Convenience Store, stole several items and held the store clerk at gunpoint. Summers had been lodged in the Clinton County Prison in lieu of $100,000 bail. The DA’s office said Summers subsequently posted bail and was released, pending his preliminary hearing.

Sports

High School Baseball

Central Mountain tops Hollidaysburg 6-5

St. John Neumann over Sugar Valley 5-2

Northeast Bradford tops Cowanesque Valley 8-7

Muncy over Montgomery 9-1

Central Columbia over Hughesville 11-1

High School Softball

Montgomery shut out Muncy 7-0

Central Mountain over Mifflinburg 4-2

Bucktail over Sugar Valley 21-3

Montoursville over Southern Columbia 14-1

Loyalsock over  Central Columbia 4-2

Williamsport over Hollidaysburg 12-1 (game 1)

Williamsport over Hollidaysburg 4-1 (game 2)

Warrior Run over Hughesville 6-2

Girls Track and Field

Loyalsock over Warrior Run 77-59

Boys Track and Field

Loyalsock over Warrior Run 79-60

BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS MAY 6, 2021

RALLY QUESTIONED AT WILLIAMSPORT SCHOOL BOARD MEETING

During a recent Williamsport School Board Meeting, about 20 residents complained about a student run rally held at the Williamsport Area High School in April. Complaints surrounding the rally’s presence on Facebook, and whether it was a Black Lives Matter event promoting anti police sentiment and why students were permitted to do so on the taxpayer’s dime were discussed.  Timothy S. Bower, District Superintendent, spoke in support of the students and denied the claims. According to the SUN Gazette, the rally had been pre-planned by approximately 75 students with the administration, to find out if they could hold the rally without disrupting the school day.

DAY OF GIVING

The Lycoming College community rose to the occasion to support its students on April 21 during its Third Annual Day of Giving. The community, students and faculty responded overwhelmingly, resulting in 875 donors and $371,817 in 24 hours to help the college.

WILLIAMSPORT AREA SCHOOL BOARD PROPOSED BUDGET

The Williamsport Area School Board gave their approval to a proposed final budget for 2021-22 school term with a .53 mill increase in real estate taxes. Final budget approval must be by June 30. The budget will now be on display at the district office and on the district’s website for examination. The next board meeting will be May 18 at 6 pm at the high school auditorium.

WILLIAMSPORT AREA SCHOOL BOARD NEW POSITIONS APPROVED

The Williamsport Area School Board approved the addition of two new coordinators of trauma and mental health services to help to deal with a significant growth and need among students K-12 in the district. At present, the district currently employs counselors, school nurses, health room techs and  three social workers to work through mental health, trauma and truancy issues with the 5,000 students in the district.

NARCAN EVENT IN MUNCY

A UPMC and West Branch Drug and Alcohol Abuse Commission event will be held at UPMC Muncy, on Monday, May 10 between 8 a.m. and 8 p.m. where Narcan will be available free. Narcan is an emergency nasal spray medication that reverses opioid effects and may save someone’s life during an overdose situation. To access the event, pull into the UPMC Muncy Emergency Department parking lot off E. Water St. and look for the tent.

COVID-19 DASHBOARD RESULTS FOR OUR AREA

The Pennsylvania Department of Health had released COVID-19 dashboard results for our area. Locally,

Lycoming County has 14 new cases today; Clinton  4; Tioga 15; Sullivan  0  and Northumberland 28. Montour 4; Snyder 11; Union 13; and Centre County 40 new COVID cases listed for today.

SUNBURY MAN FOUND

Yesterday, The body of a missing Sunbury man has been found. According to Schuylkill Haven State Police, May 3, 37-year-old Brandon Marks, of Sunbury was reported missing from the Schuykill County Fairgrounds, According to an online media source, the case remains under investigation.

GOV TOM WOLF VISITS PSU

Gov. Tom Wolf joined Penn State coach James Franklin, tight end Theo Johnson and University President Eric J. Barron to encourage members of the university community to get vaccinated against COVID-19. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 10.5 million doses of the vaccine have been administered in the commonwealth or 32.3% of the population — are fully vaccinated.  For Penn State it opens the path for fans to return to Beaver Stadium for the Nittany Lions’ Sept. 11 home opener against Ball State.

REPRESENTATIVE WITH MEMO PROPOSAL

State Rep. Stephanie Borowicz announced yesterday a co-sponsorship memo seeking support for her legislation which would exclude firearms and ammunition purchases from the state sales and use tax. According to a media outlet Borowicz cited the Pennsylvania and US Constitutions in her post on social media.

NORTHUMBERLAND POLICE UPGRADES 

Mayor Daniel Berard, announced the seven full-time and two part-time police officers in the Northumberland Borough Police will have body cameras. The $14,454 investment is among several new upgrades that also include a new police vehicle, a renovated armory and a new paint job for the control room. According to the Daily Item,  Northumberland is the third valley police department to use or explore the use of body cameras. Sunbury’s $50,000 body camera system went live the end of April and Mahoning Township Police Department, in Montour County, is preparing the technology this month.

 Sports:

Maggie and Klair Fausnaught, 19 and 17, both Williamsport High School students, are heading to the Level 9 Eastern Championships for gymnastics at the Georgia International Convention Center May 7-9.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

BACKYARD BROADCASTING MAY 5, 2021

GAS PIPELINE EXPANSION

At the latest Lycoming County Commissioners meeting, the commissioners approved a proclamation acknowledging this week as Institutional Parole and Corrections Employee Week. A $287,379 state grant to fund a gas pipeline extension to the Timber Run Industrial Park was recently approved by the Lycoming County Commissioners. According to a media outlet, Digger Specialties, Inc. is opening a facility and employing up to 150 people. Lycoming County Planning and Community Development Executive Director Shannon Rossman said the grant will fund a portion of the project. The Commonwealth Financing Authority approved the grant for the project in April.

BRIDGE BUNDLING PROJECT

At the latest Lycoming County Commissioners meeting, the commissioners approved a proclamation acknowledging this week as Institutional Parole and Corrections Employee Week. Lycoming County Commissioners have approved McTish, Kunkel & Associates for inspection work for the first phase of the county bridge bundling construction project, which involves repairs to 17 structurally deficient bridges and costing upwards of $76,734. They also approved Smith Excavating & Construction LLC for right-of-way access work to the Shriver’s Ridge Tower site at a cost of $29,600. Also,  a three-year agreement with Schuylkill Mobile Fone for pagers was approved at the cost is $10 per pager per month, according to a media outlet.

SOUTH WILLIAMSPORT SCHOOL BOARD TAX INCREASE

In the South Williamsport School Board, in order to address issues resulting from the shutdown of schools last year, the motion for adding the second grade teacher and the elementary instructional intervention teacher passed unanimously. Also passed, a motion about hiring the position of director of student services, with a 5-2 vote, according to a media outlet.

STREET IMPROVEMENT PROJECT MONTOURSVILLE

Montoursville Borough Council approved Glenn O. Hawbaker Inc. for street improvement work at a cost of $402,598 during its meeting this week. The project, set to get under way this summer, is to include paving of Walnut Street and replacement of curbs. According to SUN Gazette, the council also approved the paving of Church Alley for $4,200. Kristin McLaughlin, of SEDA-Council of Governments, which administers the dollars, said the borough could potentially receive $98,000 this year.  The borough also adopted the Lycoming County Mitigation Plan. and reported the community-wide yard sale will be June 4 and 5. The next council meeting is set for 7 p.m. Monday, June 7 at the John Dorin Municipal Building, 617 N. Loyalsock Ave.

SOUTH WILLIAMSPORT AREA SCHOOL DISTRICT TAX INCREASE

Jamie Mowrey, business manager at the South Williamsport Area School District, repeated her recommendation that the board increase real estate taxes in the district by .32 percent for the 2021-22 fiscal year, but action on the measure will not be taken until the next meeting. According to a media outlet, the lease for iPads and cyber school tuition were the main costs driving up the deficit.

SOUTH WILLIAMSPORT AREA SCHOOL BOARD POLICE PURCHASES

The South Williamsport Area School Board approved the purchase of a 2015 Ford Explorer Utility Interceptor for $11,000 from the South Williamsport Borough Police. Along with the vehicle, the board OK’d purchasing vehicle equipment for $3,000; firearms and safe, $1,250; personal protection, $130; and a taser, $500 for a total cost of $15,380. The items will be used by the school’s police program, according to a media source.In addition, the 2021 graduation list was approved by the board. Graduation is scheduled for June 4. The board’s next meeting date to Aug. 9.

LYCOMING COUNTY JUDGES RECUSED

All of the judges in the Lycoming County are recused from the case of Jonathan Kula, of Pennsdale. State police and county detectives allege that Kula had unlawful sexual contact with multiple minors on multiple occasions between 2018 and 2020. According to Lycoming County President Judge Nany L Butts,”…The defendant is the son of a deputy sheriff and based upon long-standing county court policy, it is ordered and directed that all of the county judges are recused,” The county judges can still handle administrative matters pertaining to Kula’s case, like scheduling.  According to an online media outlet, while Kula awaits a hearing before an out-of-county judge, he remains free on unsecured bail in all three child sexual abuse cases filed against him. His next scheduled court date is June 4.

WILLIAMSPORT AREA LITTLE LEAGUE

Williamsport Area Little League President Ron Diemer has headed a campaign to return WALL to its original home in Brandon Park.  Recently, Williamsport City Council gave the league a five-year lease to revitalize and create a new beginning to a city staple. According to Northcentralpa.com, Brandon Park was the longtime home for Brandon Little League until it changed its name to represent the city. When the fields fell into disrepair, the WALL moved Old Lycoming Township. That will change as Diemer and his team look to start practicing on the field as soon as possible.

PENNSYLVANIA RESIDENTS MITIGATION RESTRICTIONS RELAX

With careful exception to masking requirements, Mitigation orders—all COVID-19 restrictions related to gatherings, restaurants, and other businesses –will be lifted in Pennsylvania on Memorial Day, Monday, May 31 at 12:01 a.m., according to an announcement from the Wolf administration in coordination with the COVID-19 Vaccine Joint Task Force.The current order requiring Pennsylvanians to wear masks will be lifted when 70% of Pennsylvanians age 18 and older are fully vaccinated. Face coverings are required to be worn indoors and outdoors if you are away from your home. In accordance with the latest Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) guidance, fully vaccinated Pennsylvanians are not required to wear a mask during certain activities.

 

BACKYARD BROADCASTING MAY 4, 2021

SEXUAL ASSAULT CHARGES

A Williamsport man is charged with the 2019 sexual assault of a woman in the city. James J. Thomas is accused by Williamsport Bureau of Police of sexually assaulting a woman in the 1000 block of High Street. He is incarcerated at the Lycoming County Prison, in lieu of $250,000 monetary bail set by Magisterial District Judge Christian D. Frey on April 20.

ASSAULT CHARGES IN MUNCY

According to court records filed by Muncy Police, on April 26th around 4:40 pm, inside the apartment at 8 S Washington, Street Richard Bates reportedly was shouting for someone to call police. At this time, Sheree Speicher was allegedly beating on him with a metal pole. Bates suffered multiple bruises and welts over much of his body, according to a media outlet. Following her arraignment before District Judge Jon E. Kemp on multiple misdemeanors,  Speicher was initially jailed in the Lycoming County Prison, but has since been released on $10,000 bail.

PROSTITUTION CHARGES 

Angela Marie Burns returned to prostitution a week after her release from a state prison and her placement on parole, according to the Sun Gazette. An undercover sting brought charges and Burns to a hearing before District Judge Jon E  Kemp.

GOVERNOR TOM WOLF VISITING PHILADELPHIA

Governor Tom Wolf today visited the Philadelphia Flyers organization at the Wells Fargo Center in Philadelphia to discuss COVID-19 vaccine efforts in Pennsylvania. “Today, Pennsylvania has hit a significant milestone in our vaccination efforts. Now, 50 percent of Pennsylvanians have received their first vaccination,” said Gov. Wolf. The Flyers recently launched a comprehensive COVID-19 vaccine campaign, ‘Take Your Shot’, encouraging Pennsylvanians to get vaccinated.

LITTLE LEAGUE BASEBALL WORLD SERIES IS A GO

The Little League® Baseball World Series events will be held, as scheduled, this August in Williamsport, Pennsylvania featuring teams solely from the United States. Based on the recommendation of the 2021 Little League International Pandemic Response Advisory Commission, the Little League International Board of Directors approved a plan that incorporates a series of COVID-19 mitigation measures to host these tournaments in a healthy, responsible environment. Fans can expect changes, those of which can be viewed on the Little League Website. However, The MLB Little League Classic will be played Aug. 22 at Bowman Field as scheduled between the Los Angeles Angels and the Cleveland Indians.

PENNSYLVANIA DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH COVID-19 DASHBOARD FOR TODAY

The Pennsylvania Department of Health has released new COVID-19 dashboard numbers for our area:

Lycoming 16 new; Bradford 10; Centre 10; Columbia 6; Clinton 7; Montour 0; Northumberland 12; Snyder 5; Sullivan 2 and Union  5 cases reported.

SHOOTING IN SUNBURY

Vehicles and property were damaged during gunfire in the area of Susquehanna Avenue in Sunbury last night, according to an online media outlet.  Neighbors in the 1000 block reported hearing several noises, which could have been gunshots, about 8 p.m. Following a search for suspects and vehicles, Sunbury Police say one person was taken into custody.

CWD MEETING FOR THE PUBLIC

The National Deer Association, in conjunction with the Pennsylvania Game Commission and Wildlife Futures Program, is holding a series of meetings about Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD), a disease that always is fatal to the deer and elk it infects. All meetings will be public and held virtually through Zoom. Information presented at each of the six meetings will be tailored to a different Game Commission region. The Northcentral Region meeting is set for May 6, 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. Each meeting features presentations on CWD, followed by a question-and-answer session. At present, CWD has not been detected in all parts of Pennsylvania. CWD prevalence is highest in the area of south central Pennsylvania designated as Disease Management Area 2.The links for the meetings can be accessed through the Pennsylvania Game Commission web site.

PENNSYLVANIA COLLEGE OF TECHNOLOGY

Pennsylvania College of Technology electrical construction  students are offering assistance to local  nonprofit organizations. The-students are in a fourth-semester class in the electrical construction associate degree major, according to an online media source. It’s really a win-win. Students can enhance their skills while serving the community and nonprofits receive valuable services for no cost of labor. Past class projects include designing a park’s electrical system, installing 120-volt outlets and replacing analog meters. Williamsport area nonprofits can visit Penn College’s website for additional information and to request services.

Sports

 

High School Softball

South Williamsport over Sayre 16-2; Muncy over Sugar Valley 16-1;

High School Baseball

Shikellamy over Montoursville 9-3; South Williamsport shut out East Juniata 11-0; Central Mountain shut out Williamsport 5-0;

 

Boys Tennis

Muncy over Loyalsock 3-2;

Boys Lacrosse

Lewisburg over Bellefonte 17-5

 

Little League

Blaise Alexander over Allstate 4-2

Blaise Alexander over Hughesville Lions 13-5

 

BACKYARD BROADCASTING May 3, 2021

PORCH FIRES

Three porch fires kept area fire personnel busy on Saturday. The first was around 11 a.m. on 3847 Wallis Run Rd. in Gamble Township remains under investigation. Careless discarding of smoking materials caused a fire at the rear of 225 Washington Blvd, during the afternoon. The third fire was in a planter at 2010 Mosser Ave. at 10:10 p.m. and careless discarding of smoking materials the cause.  According to SUN Gazette, while all fires caused minimal damage and were out quickly, city fire officials urge a metal can with water for disposing of cigarettes.

TEDxWILLIAMSPORT

Returning this fall on October 16th is TEDxWilliamsport. Ten speakers who have ideas worth sharing around the theme of “InterconnecTED were chosen.” According to a media outlet, October’s speakers include: Sandra Lane, Lisa Longo, Mallori DeSalle, Adriana Richard,  Jennifer Demchak,Star Poole, John Shableski, Shaheem Hill, Dan Brauning, and Dr. Howard Woodruff. Tickets will go on sale in September. More information is available on the TEDxWilliamsport web page.

DEADLINE FOR VOTER REGISTRATION 

Today is the deadline to sign up for Pennsylvania residents wishing to vote in the May 18 municipal primary election. Clinton County Government on Saturday posted a reminder on social media: The Clinton County Board of Elections encourages all eligible Clinton County voters to make sure they are registered and that the information is up to date. Voters can choose the online voter registration system  or obtain a copy of the voter registration form at the Clinton County Piper Building located at 2 Piper Way in Lock Haven.

FELONY CHARGES FOR FIREARMS CRIME

After allegedly stealing a pickup truck near Elimsport and driving it to 2394 Old Lairdsville Rd in Moreland Township, Lucas Drick, Allenwood, fired a shotgun round into the widow of an occupied residence on Wednesday afternoon. According to Pennsylvania State Police Trooper Logan Webb, Drick was charged with multiple felonies, arraigned before the Honorable Judge Jerry Lepley and committed to the Lycoming County Prison in lieu of $100,000 bail.

MONTOURSVILLE AREA SCHOOL BOARD 

The 2021-22 budget was released for the Montoursville Area School District and is projected to have no increase in real estate taxes for borough homeowners, according to an online media outlet.  Although no tax increase is expected,  there has been an increase in the revenue from real estate taxes of $26,580 can be attributed to tax assessment changes.

EAST LYCOMING SCHOOL BOARD BUDGET

The East Lycoming School Board approved next year’s proposed district budget that includes a 0.58 tax millage increase. The next board meeting is set for 7 p.m. Tuesday, May 11.

PENNSYLVANIA RESIDENT’S PERSONAL INFORMATION LEAK

According to the Pennsylvania Dept of Health, private information of over 70,000 Pennsylvanians may have been exposed by a data security breach at an Atlanta-based company. The company was contracted to conduct COVID-19 contact tracing in Pennsylvania but the Associated Press reported the company’s employee’s apparently shared confidential information via unauthorized Google accounts, Some of the leaked information included Pennsylvanians’ phone numbers, emails, genders, sexual orientations and COVID-19 diagnoses.

GREEN BUSINESS OF THE YEAR

United Plate Glass,  Sunbury was named 2021 Green Business of the Year by the Central Pennsylvania Chamber of Commerce. According to the Daily Item,  company President  Nate Lawrence, who co-owns the business at 4762 State Route 890 with Dave Zartman, says the company recycles 30,000 pounds of glass a year and 200 pounds of aluminum a week. The Green Business Award is made from the top of a recycled steel drum container and was presented on April 27. The previous winner of the Green Business of the Year Award was Bear Rental, Northumberland (2020).

BUSINESS IN LEWISBURG CLOSING

The Purple Platypus in Lewisburg will close on May 29, according to a post on the store’s Facebook page and a sign on the door. Tabitha Geise, a second-generation owner of Purple Platypus at 335 Market St., said in the post on social media that the demands of running the shop have become too much and she wants to focus on her family. Geise was unable to be reached for additional comment. The store was opened by Geise’s mother-in-law Jody Geise from 1988 to 2015. Tabitha Geise took over ownership in 2011.

CHILD PORNOGRAPHY

On March 5, 2020, police received a CyberTip from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children that child pornography was uploaded by a Microsoft OneDrive user on Dec. 22, 2019. With that, Timothy Wayne Chrisenberry was charged on April 15 with 49 felony counts of sexual abuse of children (possession of child pornography) and one felony count of criminal use of a communication facility. According to Northcentralpa.com,  Chrisenberry is incarcerated at the Lycoming County Prison in lieu of $150,000 monetary bail.

UPDATED INFORMATION ON DRUG CHARGES IN LOCK HAVEN

Authorities yesterday released details on two arrests following an early Wednesday morning search of a Lock Haven apartment. The officers and agents from the Region 4 East Drug Task Force, entered the residence using a narcotics search warrant at 5 Corning St. 3rd Floor Apt. Lock Haven. According to a media outlet, two individuals were located inside the residence, Janet Evans and Jason Young were charged with multiple violations and arraigned by District Judge Frank Mills with bail on Young at $20,000 monetary and $10,000 unsecured on Evans. Both will make their first court appearance on Tuesday, May 4 in Clinton County Central Court.

 

BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS APRIL 30, 2021

FATAL DOMESTIC

A fatal shooting leaves one dead and one in custody stemming from the domestic situation at the Fairlawn Court, 3605 Lycoming Creek Road, in Lycoming Township just before 7 p.m. yesterday, according to Old Lycoming Township police. Sun Gazette reports the deputy county coroner was en route to the trailer park..

CRIMINAL MISCHIEF
Bryant Engle of Towanda, was reported to be “loud and intoxicated” when he smashed seven windows on the William Street side of the Genetti Hotel on Fourth Street around 3 am Wednesday. Police have filed charges and jailed Engle after being ruled unfit for arraignment, Engle has since been released on $20,000 bail.

NO INCREASE IN TAXES MONTOURSVILLE AREA SCHOOL DISTRICT

The 2021-22 budget was released for the Montoursville Area School District and is projected to have no increase in real estate taxes for borough homeowners, according to an online media outlet. Although no tax increase is expected, there has been an increase in the revenue from real estate taxes of $26,580 can be attributed to tax assessment changes.

EAST LYCOMING SCHOOL BOARD TAX INCREASE

The East Lycoming School Board approved next year’s proposed district budget that includes a 0.58 tax millage increase. The next board meeting is set for 7 p.m. Tuesday, May 11.

ARMED ROBBERY CHARGES 

A Williamsport man arrested for robbing the Lewisburg Jersey Mike’s Subs at gunpoint now faces charges for robbing a New Columbia gas station in January. Kenneth Robert Gough Jr was arraigned Wednesday on felony robbery charges for entering the Stop Convenience Store/Sunoco gas station on New Columbia Road in White Deer Township and demanding money. For the New Columbia robbery case, Gough was arraigned by Union County District Judge Jeffrey C. Mensch. He remains in Union County Prison. No suspect has been arrested yet in relation to two armed robberies at Jersey Mike’s Subs in Williamsport on March 15 and April 9, though similarities are reported to exist with these armed robberies, according to an online media source.

FALSE STATEMENTS CHARGES
The Office of the State Inspector General filed a felony false statements charge against a Williamsport woman suspected of failing to report wages.Kayla Lopez, made false statements to the Lycoming County Assistance Office, between July 1, 2020, to Feb. 25, 2021.The Inspector General’s office claims Lopez received $2,071.50 in cash assistance while also receiving wages from Family Care Home Health, LLC, which she allegedly failed to report.

UPDATED COVID-19 DASHBOARD

The PA Dept. of Health released updated COVID-19 Dashboard numbers and locally: Lycoming: 26 new; Sullivan: 4; Columbia: 32; Montour: 6; Northumberland: 15;  Union: 10; Snyder: 3 and Clinton: 17 cases.

CHARGES WITHDRAWN FOR WILLIAMSPORT MAN
Felony criminal trespass and misdemeanor disorderly conduct charges recently were withdrawn against Steven Maurice Williams. According to a media outlet, Williamsport Police charged Williams, claiming he violated a Protection From Abuse order by kicking in a door and taking items from a residence in the 300 block of Market Street on Jan. 30. Williams was arraigned by Magisterial District Judge Aaron S. Biichle, who set Williams’ bail at $85,000 monetary. He was confined to Lycoming County Prison on April 1 until charges against him were withdrawn on April 15.

LOCK HAVEN DRUG ARRESTS 

Authorities yesterday released details on two arrests following an early Wednesday morning search of a Lock Haven apartment. Where officers and agents from the Region 4 East Drug Task Force entered using a narcotics search warrant at 5 Corning St. 3rd Floor Apt. Lock Haven and found Janet Evans and Jason Young. They were charged with multiple violations and arraigned by District Judge Frank Mills with bail on Young at $20,000 monetary and $10,000 unsecured on Evans. Both will make their first court appearance on Tuesday, May 4 in Clinton County Central Court.

BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS APRIL 28, 2021

STAND-OFF

State Police in Towanda report a stand-off ended peacefully when the suspect’s mother opened the door for Troopers to take Marc Petrucci into custody. According to Northcentralpa.com on April 15, Petrucci fled a parole officer and locked himself inside this residence. Petrucci was arrested and multiple charges filed. He is held at the Bradford County Prison in lieu of $50,000 monetary bond with a preliminary hearing scheduled for Wednesday.

UPDATED COVID-19 DASHBOARD

The PA Dept. of Health local COVID-19 dashboard numbers are: Lycoming: 25 new; Tioga: 3;  Bradford: 11;  Sullivan:  3;  Columbia: 12; Montour: 2; Northumberland: 15; Union: 8; Snyder: 6; Clinton: 12 cases.

COUNTYWIDE ACTION PLANS

The Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) announced yesterday that twelve counties in DEP’s Northcentral Region have taken the first significant step to improving the health of local waterways. The counties, with the assistance of DEP, are creating Countywide Action Plans (CAP) to identify projects that will reduce nutrient and sediment pollution in the Susquehanna River and its tributaries and are looking for local groups to get involved, according to a media outlet.

MODIFICATION TO BAIL

A Clinton County Judge granted a motion to modify his bail and a Hughesville man charged with rape of a child is in jail. Common Pleas Judge Michael F. Salisbury modified bail to $125,000 monetary for Aaron Clark charged by state police at Lamar of sexually assaulting a 9-year-old female. According to a media outlet, Clark has been confined to the Clinton County Correctional Facility since April 19.

SUPPRESSION HEARING UPCOMING

The attorney for a juvenile charged as an adult claims police coerced statements and searched his home without a warrant. Nigel Staten-Chambers is accused by Williamsport Police of firing five rounds from a pistol at an Old School Pizza delivery driver in the 900 block of Market Street Nov. 21 has been confined to the Lycoming County Prison since Dec. 1 without bail. According to an online media source, President Judge Nancy Butts is scheduled to hear arguments in the suppression matter on May 4.

FIRST COURT CASE SINCE HOMICIDE

A teenager charged with homicide has his first court appearance set for Tuesday, May 25. Brian St. John III, 19, will appear before District Judge Keith Kibler. He remains incarcerated at the Clinton County Correctional Facility after his arrest following the Feb. 26 incident. He was arrested and charged with the killing, Jakob Lee Haines, during a gathering at the St. John home  in Woodward Township, according to a media source.

FACEBOOK LIVE TONIGHT

The Williamsport Crosscutters will be hosting a special Facebook Live event, Wednesday, April 28, at 7 pm to discuss plans for the upcoming 2021 season, give fans an opportunity to hear up-to-date information on ordering tickets, stadium capacity limits and social distancing. The campaign begins on May 24 in State College with the team’s home opener to follow on May 25 as play begins in the all-new MLB draft league

NATIONAL WORK ZONE AWARENESS WEEK

The Pennsylvania State Police, Dept of Transportation and the Turnpike Commission yesterday kicked  off National Work Zone Awareness Week. The week designed to highlight the critical importance of safe driving through work zones, runs through April 30. The theme of this year’s work-zone safety campaign is “Drive safe. Work safe. Save lives.”

DONATION TO PENN COLLEGE

The Larry A. Ward Machining Technologies Center, a newly revamped facility thanks to a donation of over $1 million, the largest alumni gift in Penn College history. According to a media outlet, Ward , a 1966 graduate,  his donation added improvements including new lighting, flooring, fixtures and more. Ward gave and continued to give, as he continues to hire students from Penn College to work as his company.

ACCESSIBLE RAMP, DOOR, ELEVATOR 

The City Council’s finance committee provided thumbs up to an accessible ramp construction project on the north side of City Hall. The projects price tag is estimated at $160,000 to $180,000. The ramp and  an elevator modification —according to sun gazette is a bid that is going to arrive in coming weeks — are requirements as part of a settlement to avoid a potential lawsuit enacted by advocates for the disabled community.

Sports:

 

High School Sports

Boys Tennis

Wellsboro shut out Muncy 5-0; Lewisburg shut out Jersey Shore 5-0

 

Softball

Central Columbia shut out Montoursville 2-0; Williamsport over Punxsutawney 8-2; Loyalsock shut out Southern Columbia 14-0; Jersey Shore topped Milton 6-2

 

Baseballl

St John Neumann over Sullivan county 20-8; Muncy over Northwest 11-1;

 

Little League

Blaise Alexander over American Legion Post 268 12-2

Hughesville over Kiwanis 30-20

Lock Haven over Cable Services 13-8

 

 

 

 

 

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