BACKYARD BROADCASTING May 17, 2021

FELONY RAPE JURY SELECTION TODAY

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

SUPPRESSION ARGUMENTS 

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

GUILTY PLEA IN DRUG CHARGES 

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

LOCK HAVEN UNIVERSITY TEST-OPTIONAL ADMISSION POLICY

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

LYCOMING COLLEGE GRADUATION

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

BUCKNELL UNIVERSITY 

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

POLICE PURSUIT

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

CHIRP

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

GRADUATION AND RETIREMENT PLANS

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

 

 

BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS MAY 14, 2021

CDC MASKING GUIDELINES 

Department of Health Acting Secretary Alison Beam announced that the Commonwealth’s mask order reflects the announcement made by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) yesterday. The CDC yesterday provided guidance that fully vaccinated individuals can resume activities that they did prior to the pandemic without wearing a mask or physically distancing except where required by law, rule, and regulations, including local business and workplace guidance. Under the guidance, individuals are still be required to wear a mask on planes, buses, trains, and other forms of public transportation traveling into, within, or out of the United States.

BU ENDING GREEK LIFE ON CAMPUS

With a long known history of concerns, topped with a second student death, Bloomsburg University announced it is ending all Greek Life. “Effective immediately, Bloomsburg University is terminating its fraternity and sorority life (FSL) program and severing ties with all national and local FSL organizations currently affiliated with the University,” said Dr. Barshar Hanna, President of Bloomsburg University, in an email sent to the entire campus yesterday. Most recently on Saturday, May 8, sophomore nursing student Leah Burke died after an incident on the outdoor stairs at the Pi Lambda Phi fraternity house, according to BUNOW.com. That incident remains under investigation.

LOYALSOCK SCHOOL DISTRICT TO INCREASE REAL ESTATE TAXES
The Loyalsock School District School Board voted to approve an increase in the real estate tax millage by .43 percent. The district budget for 2021-22 is now on display for 30 days for public viewing and comment. The next board meeting will be a work session at 6 p.m. May 26 at the District Board Room, 1605 Four Mile Drive.

MONTOURSVILLE AREA SCHOOL DISTRICT NO TAX INCREASE
The Montoursville Area School District School Board unanimously approved the proposed final 2021-22 budget with no tax increase. The budget will now be on display for 30 days with final adoption expected at the board’s June 8 meeting. The board also approved a one-year extension of an agreement between the district and Montoursville Borough to provide a school resource officer for the 2021-22 school year. This agreement has been in place since 2007 and is extended year-to-year. The next meeting will be at 7 p.m. May 25 at McCall Middle School.

NEW POLICE CHIEF IN MIDDLEBURG
A new Police Chief in Middleburg. The borough council voted unanimously to hire Bailey to take over as Chief on July 6, 2021. According to the Daily Item, Bailey, a Mifflinburg police officer, has been serving as interim chief since earlier this year.

HIGH SPEED CHARGES AGAINST DEWART MAN
Wednesday night, a Dewart man attempted to flee police, was allegedly high on methamphetamine, according to state police in Milton. Paul Elmer McClintock, Dewart, is now faces felony fleeing/attempting to elude an officer and multiple misdemeanors stemming from a pursuit in Milton. He was charged by State Trooper Tyler Arbogast, arraigned in front of District Justice Michael Diehl yesterday morning and committed to Northumberland County Jail in lieu of $20,000 cash bail. He is scheduled for a preliminary hearing at 9:45 a.m. May 26 in front of Judge Diehl.

 

 

FELONY AGGRAVATED ASSAULT WITH A VEHICLE
A Sunbury man struck a hunter, walking on the side of the road. near Furmano Foods, in fall 2020, according to Point Township police. Rex L. Millington faces felony aggravated assault with a deadly weapon and multiple misdemeanors. The charges were filed in the Milton office of District Judge Michael Diehl. A preliminary hearing is scheduled for June 9 in front of Diehl.

UPDATED COVID DASHBOARD RESULTS 
The PA Dept. of Health released new COVID dashboard numbers for us and locally: Lycoming 18, Sullivan 1, Columbia 27, Montour 19, Northumberland 12, Union 10, Snyder 3, Centre 10 and Clinton County has 10 new cases.

BUCKNELL STUDENTS REQUIRED TO VACCINATE BEFORE RETURNING TO  UNIVERSITY
As a residential institution, Bucknell University has long required incoming students to be vaccinated against many diseases that can spread quickly in shared living spaces. University President John Bravman announced beginning Aug. 1, all Bucknell students will be required to be vaccinated against COVID-19 prior to their arrival on campus for the fall 2021 semester unless they have an approved exemption on file with Bucknell Student Health.In requiring the vaccine for students, Bucknell joins a growing list of more than 300 U.S. colleges and universities, including many in the Patriot and Ivy leagues.As of right now, Bucknell University joins ethe University of Pennsylvania and 10 other Pa. institutions of higher learning are mandating all students must be vaccinated before they enter their respective schools.

Sports:

Williamsport Little League

Premiere Real Estate over Dr. Ryan Linn  5-0

High School Softball

Lewisburg over Loyalsock 9-6

Boys Tennis

Central Columbia wins District 4 Class AA Final

The District 4 doubles tournament will start with the first three rounds Saturday at Williamsport High School at 9 am. The semifinals will be played at 1 pm at the Central PA Tennis Center in South Williamsport.

High school baseball

St. John Neumann 7, Montgomery 5

Sayre 13, Canton 12

Muncy 11, Bucktail 1,

BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS MAY 13, 2021

TRAFFIC COMPLICATIONS ON THE GOLDEN STRIP

The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation has seen enough of the traffic tie ups on the Golden Strip near Dunkin Donuts 1900 E Third Street in Williamsport. The Department is now requiring the owner to take immediate corrective action. Bill Burdett, Loyalsock Township Manager, advised the redesign of the drive through is imperative. However, according to a online media outlet, PennDot stressed the responsibility falls on the owner to provide solutions for the Department to review.

JERSEY SHORE AREA SCHOOL DISTRICT BUDGET

With the 2021-22 Jersey Shore Area School District budget is on display for public viewing, it’s details can still change, according to Dr Brian Ulmer, the District Superintendent. There are 30 days of public viewing before it goes for final approval. Before any changes, the district is not suggesting a tax increase for borough residents. Historically, the board votes on the budget at the second meeting in May. The next board meeting will be at 7 p.m. May 24.

WATSONTOWN POLICE LOOKING FOR COUNTERFEIT CURRENCY

The Watsontown Police are investigating the report of counterfeit currency attempting to be used at the CVS in Watsontown. A suspect dressed in all black entered into the CVS on May 7th, 2021 and attempted to purchase approximately $800 worth of merchandise. Anyone with information is requested to contact the Watsontown Police at 570-538-2773.

CHILD ENDANGERMENT 

After a 2-year-old consumed THC infused candy, she was rushed to the Geisinger Medical Center by ambulance and the  mother was charged with child endangerment. Cassie N. Beers, of New Columbia, faces misdemeanor charges by the Pennsylvania State Police in Milton at the office of District Judge Jeffrey C. Mensch. Pennsylvania State Police at Milton reported the child ingested a “home-made THC infused Nerd’s rope.” According to an online media outlet, Beers’ case was waived for court. She will appear at Union County Court of Common Pleas for formal arraignment on July 26.

SPLASH COVE NOT OPENING THIS YEAR

In a press release, Mayor Derek Slaughter announced that Splash Cove Pool in Memorial Park will not be opening for the 2021 season. The City’s Public Works Department, those responsible for pool maintenance and improvements to the pool, are working tirelessly to maintain Splash Cove. However, in addition to the general upkeep, there are still more repairs to be addressed and completed including an ongoing leak that is costing City taxpayers a considerable amount of money  in water and chemicals. The hope is for Splash Cove Pool to reopen for 2022.

2021 GRAND SLAM PARADE NOT BEING HELD THIS YEAR

The Lycoming County Visitors Bureau will not be conducting the 2021 Grand Slam Parade this August.  Although a rich piece of history, Little League Baseball is keeping the Little League players at the complex and it was determined that this year’s parade would not be viable without their participation. Jason Fink, President and CEO of the Lycoming County Visitors Bureau explains why it is so important. We look forward to 2022 helping to welcome all 20 teams from throughout the world to enjoy the 75th Little League World Series.

WILLIAMSPORT REGIONAL AIRPORT TO RECEIVE STATE FUNDING FOR HANGAR PROJECT 

In a press release from State Senator Gene Yaw, the Williamsport Regional Airport is set to receive more than $1 Million in State Funding for a new hangar complex. Richard Howell, Executive Director explains. The grants are funded through the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation Assistance Program, which is dedicated to improving the state’s aviation infrastructure.

HOUSE BILL 765

State representative Joe Hamm spear headed the House Bill 765 and it will affect the 9/11 ride, your local parade and even the Fireworks in Williamsport for the 4th of July.  The bill now goes to the Pennsylvania Senate for approval before going to Governor Wolf.

VACCINES FOR AGES 12 AND OVER

Following recent approvals to expand use of the Pfizer BioNTech vaccine, Geisinger which has already administered 285,000 COVID-19 vaccines, is now offering vaccine appointments to anyone ages 12 and over. Appointments can now be scheduled for anyone age 12 and over at one of Geisinger’s four community vaccine centers. The centers are at the Geisinger Health Plan Building near Danville, Centerpoint in Jenkins Township, Geisinger Jersey Shore Hospital and Lewistown.

UPDATED COVID-19 DASHBOARD FOR TODAY

The Pennsylvania dept of health has released updated COVID dashboard for our area. Locally Lycoming 22, Clinton 3, Montour 2, Northumberland 13, and center county 13 cases.

65 FORWARD HEALTH CENTER IN MILTON

Achieving better health with easier access to care is now available for those 65 and older in Milton area as Geisinger opens its latest 65 Forward Health Center. Featuring more time with the doctor, same day appointments and an entire care team dedicated to your health and well-being, Forward 65 makes it easier than ever for members to live their healthiest lives. Now open at 5170 State Route 405 in the South Gate Plaza just south of Milton, the Geisinger 65 Forward Health Center is a $3 million investment of a redesigned space bringing together all of the health care services those 65 and over frequently need.

High school softball

Bellefonte shut out Central Mountain 6-0

South Williamsport over Millville 5-2

Juniata over Muncy 5-3

 

High School Baseball

Jersey Shore shut out Lewisburg 4-0

St. John Neumann over Northwest 8-2

 

Boys track and field

Bloomsburg over Loyalsock 73-69

Shikellamy over Central Mountain 131-19

 

Girls track and field

Bloomsburg over Loyalsock 97-49

Shikellamy over Central Mountain 76-73

 

Montoursville Little League

Dixon AC&R over Blaise Alexander 13-2

 

 

 

 

 

BACKYARD BROADCASTING MAY 12, 2021

EVENT AND GATHERING MAXIMUM OCCUPANCY LIMITS

The Wolf Administration announced yesterday that event and gathering maximum occupancy limits will be increased to 50 percent for indoor events and gatherings and 75 percent for outdoor events and gatherings effective Monday, May 17 at 12:01 am. Face coverings are still to be worn indoors and outdoors if you are away from your home.  Current maximum occupancy is 25 percent for indoor events and 50 percent for outdoor events.

“TREE CAMPUS”

Aided by its knowledgeable team of foresters, along with academic programs, Pennsyvania College of Technology has been chosen as a national “Tree Campus” for the sixth  consecutive year. The Arbor Day Foundation’s  Tree Campus Higher Education program honors colleges and universities for effective campus forest management and for engaging employees and students in conservation goals.

NARCOTICS RING ARRESTS AND SENTENCING 

Two out of three people accused by county detectives of operating a lucrative narcotics ring have been sentenced, according to a media outlet. Courtney F. Smith was sentenced on April 13 after pleading guilty to one ungraded felony. Lycoming County President Judge Nancy L. Butts sentenced Smith to a minimum of nine months and a maximum of 23 months in county jail. Smith’s boyfriend, Robbert Hanner of Williamsport, and Erick M. Dapp of Montoursville were also arrested in the sting. Hanner currently is at SCI Mahanoy serving a five-to-ten year sentence and Dapp’s next scheduled hearing is on June 19.

CONSTITUTIONAL RIGHTS QUESTIONED

A Hughesville man,  charged with possession of a small amount of marijuana,  claims his Constitutional rights were violated by the Pennsylvania State Police. Joseph Clements, was stopped by Pennsylvania State Police at Montoursville Trooper Garrett Shnyder on U.S. 15 South on Sept. 29, 2020. With an active warrant for his arrest, Cllements’ was taken into custody,  his vehicle searched and the drugs found. Clements is charged with one misdemeanor count. Arguments in the matter are scheduled for July 2 before President Judge Nancy L. Butts.

NEW SOUTH WILLIAMSPORT POLICE CHIEF

After 21 years as a Milton Police Officer, Dan Embeck is now the new Police Chief of the South Williamsport Police Department. Norm Hager, the current acting Assistant Chief will assume the role of Assistant Chief on July 1. Also effective July 1, the department will have three operations supervisors, including a patrol corporal, to oversee and assist with critical incident response management.

SUSPICIOUS CALL FOR HELP

Officials began a water rescue around 1:30 Tuesday morning when they  received a report that an unknown female had jumped into the water, allegedly  from the Maynard Street Bridge. The unknown woman was reported to have exited her vehicle and jumped over the rail in the 10 block of S. Maynard St. in Williamsport,  which caused officials to close the bridge.The woman was later found safe in her home. The Williamsport Bureau of Fire had three boats in the water and the rescue team anticipated a possible water rescue. She did not jump..It is unknown at this time where or from whom initial reports of the woman jumping originated.

 

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.

 

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