BACKYARD BROADCASTING, LOCAL NEWS MARCH 17, 2022

CHARGES CARRIED THROUGH TO COURT

The charges involving the homicides of two children, Jasmine and Nicole Snyder, who were reported to have been abused over time, will see a court date.  As reported by Sun Gazette, Ronald Butler and Echo Butler’s charges were held for court after a preliminary hearing in Lycoming County Court yesterday. The girls’ mother, Marie Snyder and Echo’s mother, Michele Butler, waived their preliminary hearings.

Nicole was 6 when she died on or about May 10, 2016, and Jasmine was 4 when she died on or about Aug. 11, 2017, according to investigators and they were buried in the yard of the residence.

DRUG CHARGES LAND THREE MEN IN JAIL

As reported by an online media source, three men are facing felony charges from behind bars after they were picked up by the Lycoming County Narcotics Enforcement Unit. As reported by SUN Gazette. Devon Darby, 39, and Eugene Martin, of Philadelphia, along with a third man, Hakeem Lomax, were taken into custody, investigators with a search warrant raided the apartment, and seized seven bricks of fentanyl, an ounce of methamphetamines and three grams of suspected crack cocaine, the affidavit stated. The street value of the seized seven bricks was estimated at about $3,500, investigators said. Martin and Darby face multiple charges and were committed to the Lycoming County Prison in lieu of $150,000 bail each. Lomax also was incarcerated on two bench warrants, one out of Lycoming County and another from Luzerne County.

 

LOCAL SCHOOL BOARD HAS TOUGH DECISIONS

The Jersey Shore Area School Board faces a difficult decision: close schools or risk losing millions. Board members heard a presentation this week. Michael Jones, of Hunt Engineering, presented school board members with several options and cost breakdowns for building upgrades in order to accommodate additional students. Options for the school district include closing either Salladasburg Elementary or Avis Elementary or both of the schools. According to SUN Gazette, costs included in the closing still could cost the school district $57.9 million, $59 million or even $70.7 million at its costliest option.

THE STOLEN BAT HAS RETURNED

Abigail Paulhamus, 22, of Clearfield, formerly of South Williamsport, has been charged with stealing a bronze bat after someone else had ripped the bat from the Little League “Bases Loaded” statue at Third and Market streets on Oct. 22, as reported by a media outlet.  A security camera recorded about 2 a.m., a woman, later identified as Paulhamus, “picks up the bat, takes photos with the bat before walking away with it,” an affidavit stated. Police tracked down Paulhamus days later at her apartment. She surrendered the bat, which is valued in excess of $5,000, police said. Following her arraignment Tuesday before District Judge Aaron Biichle on felony charges of theft and receiving stolen property, Paulhamus was released on $15,000 bail.

ATV ORDINANCE IN CLINTON COUNTY

The ordinance, “designating certain township roads as roads to be shared by both all-terrain vehicles and vehicular traffic,” were voted, by a vote of 3 to 2 in favor of the ordinance during the Tuesday night, Chapman Township Supervisors meeting.  As reported by therecordonline.com, there were over 60 attendees to the meeting, some of which spoke to the supervisors, giving freely of their support or opposition.

POPULATION CHANGES REFLECTED IN NEW MAP

New maps of General Assembly districts that reflect the past decade’s population changes in Pennsylvania survived legal challenges Wednesday when the state Supreme Court unanimously cleared the way for candidates to begin circulating petitions to get on the spring primary ballot. The justices rejected various challenges to the district lines drawn up by the Legislative Reapportionment Commission. As a result, the new state House and Senate districts will be in effect for the coming decade. The justices modified the elections calendar, letting candidates begin to collect signatures starting Friday and lasting 10 days, until March 28. The primary election is May 17.

MEETING ONE IN THE BOOKS FOR FIRE SERVICE

The first of several meetings to work to work towards a plan of mutual aid agreement between the Williamsport Bureau of Fire and the South Williamsport Fire Department was yesterday.  In attendance will be fire administration from the Williamsport Bureau of Fire and members of the South Williamsport borough administration. Williamsport Bureau of Deputy Chief Kieth Lucas reports it was a productive meeting, with a follow up meeting next week.

BACKYARD BROADCASTING, LOCAL NEWS MARCH 16, 2022

DEATH INVESTIGATION

State Police in Milton are investigating suspicious deaths on Black Run Road in Buffalo Township, Union County.  On March 14, just after 8:30 am, William and Nancy Wise were discovered deceased, as reported by the Daily Item. The case remains under investigation. There is no threat to the public at this time.

 

VIDEO WINS AWARD FOR WILLIAMSPORT HIGH SCHOOL

A Williamsport Area High School video produced to help raise awareness on mental health stigmas and suicide prevention received first place in a recent statewide PSA contest conducted by Prevent Suicide PA (PSPA). The video, created by members of the high school’s Students Against Destructive Decisions (SADD) Club, earned the top spot in the 60-second category through online votes received from both students and the broader public.The club will be recognized for their winning production at an upcoming MLB game. To view the high school’s video, visit www.wasd.org.

 

MIDDLE STATES COMMISSION INITIAL APPROVAL

The integration of Lock Haven, Bloomsburg and Mansfield universities has received initial approval by the institutional accrediting agency, Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE).

Accreditation by Middle States is required by the U.S. Department of Education and assures students, families and communities the university has completed a rigorous review process and provides a high-quality education. Earlier this month, the Board of Governors of Pennsylvania’s State System of Higher Education voted to approve the name Commonwealth University of Pennsylvania to represent the integrated entity for Lock Haven, Bloomsburg and Mansfield universities.

THEFT OF COPPER GETS COUPLE JAIL TIME

On Saturday, just after 6:30 am, two Williamsport residents burglarized and stole copper piping and valves from a vacant building located at 1955 East Third Street in Loyalsock Township. State Police from Montoursville report James and Cheryl Kane took upwards of $205 worth of copper product. They were located, taken into custody, charged and committed to Lycoming County Prison.

FORMER BLUE JAYS PITCHER JESSE LITSCH TO LEAD CUTTERS IN ‘22

 

Major League Baseball and the Williamsport Crosscutters have announced that former Toronto Blue Jays pitcher Jesse Litsch has been tabbed to manage the Cutters in 2022. Litsch was drafted in the 24th round of the 2004 June Draft by the Toronto Blue Jays and spent 5 seasons in MLB with Toronto (2007-2011).  Williamsport is one of six founding members of the MLB Draft League which begins its second season in 2022. The inaugural MLB Draft League campaign saw a total of 39 players drafted by MLB Clubs and over 90 players signing pro contracts. The 2022 Williamsport Crosscutters home opener is scheduled for Thursday, June 2 at Muncy Bank Ballpark as the Cutters host the State College Spikes. The team had previously announced new game times for the upcoming season with Monday-Saturday contests starting at 6:35pm and Sunday games at 4:05pm. Gates open one hour prior to game time. The 2022 season features 40 home games, more than ever before, and the debut of Muncy Bank Ballpark’s new $700,000 video board.

SUNSHINE PROTECTION ACT MOVES TO HOUSE

The Senate unanimously approved a measure Tuesday that would make daylight saving time permanent across the United States next year. The bipartisan bill, named the Sunshine Protection Act, would ensure Americans would no longer have to change their clocks twice a year. But the bill still needs approval from the House, and the signature of President Joe Biden, to become law. According to Sen Ed Markey of Massachusetts, the original cosponsor of the legislation, “No more switching clocks, more daylight hours to spend outside after school and after work, and more smiles — that is what we get with permanent Daylight Saving Time.” Daylight saving time is defined as a period between spring and fall when clocks in most parts of the country are set one hour ahead of standard time. Americans last changed their clocks on Sunday. Standard time lasts for roughly four months in most of the country. Markey said Tuesday, “Now, I call on my colleagues in the House of Representatives to lighten up and swiftly pass the Sunshine Protection Act.”

EQUAL PAY DAY

The Pennsylvania Commission for Women, the Pennsylvania Department of Labor & Industry, and other stakeholders highlighted the importance of Equal Pay Day and the importance of eliminating the gender wage gap. Equal Pay Day marks how far into the year women must work in order to be paid what men were paid in the previous calendar year. On average, women who work fulltime are paid just 83 cents per every dollar men are paid and nearly two-thirds of people making the minimum wage are women. Governor Tom Wolf has called for a minimum wage increase every year that he has been in office, and once again, he is calling for the General Assembly to raise the wage for working Pennsylvanians.

MEETING TO FIND THE AGREEMENT

A solid arrangement between the Williamsport Bureau of Fire and the South Williamsport Fire Department will be the topic of a meeting today.  In attendance will be fire administration from the Williamsport Bureau of Fire and members of the South Williamsport borough administration. The meeting is aimed at creating an agreement, much like the one that is already in place with the Williamsport Bureau of fire and Old Lycoming township for over the past 20 years.  As reported by Sun Gazette, South Williamsport Borough Manager Steven W Cappelli described the current situation with the South Williamsport Fire Department as dire. He expressed a concern that there is a lack of manpower to respond to emergencies. For the next three months, the fire department, under Chief Tyler Dickson, will have the huge job of recruitment and recovery for a department that has been struggling.

BACKYARD BROADCASTING, LOCAL NEWS MARCH 15, 2022

AREA POLICE DEPARTMENTS HELP UKRAINE

In a move to solidify the support for the Ukraine, Sunbury City Council, Mayor Josh Brosious and Chief Brad Hare are sending old police vests and helmets to help Ukrainian soldiers. According to Chief Brad Hare, he was contacted by the Williamsport Fraternal Order of Police about their older vests and equipment, in order to send such equipment to the Ukraine. Hare informed the Sunbury City Council last night during their regular council meeting. As reported by the Daily Item, Hare received the overwhelming approval from council.

DEATH INVESTIGATION

On March 8th, Pennsylvania State Police in Milton were notified of the death of a 78 year old male resident of the Danville State Hospital. This investigation is being conducted in coordination with the Montour County Coroner’s Office.

NURSING HOME INSPECTION REPORT

The Pennsylvania Department of Health today released its February 2022 nursing home inspection report noting that nursing home surveyors conducted 376 inspections of 276 separate nursing homes. Of those inspections, there were 223 complaint investigations. There were five new sanctions finalized against nursing care facilities in the past month resulting in a total of $39,250 in fines. In addition to fines, there was a provisional two license issued at one facility. The Department of Health also conducts surveys on behalf of the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). These surveys include federal certification and recertification, complaint surveys, building safety surveys and others.

COLD CASE SOLVED

Federal authorities have announced the arrest of a New Jersey man in the cold case slaying of a teenager whose body was found in central Pennsylvania more than two decades ago. Columbia County authorities said hunters found the body of 17-year-old Shamar Washington of Williamsport in Hemlock Township in January 2001. Federal marshals in Scranton said 44-year-old Brian Gregory Quinn was arrested last week in Deptford on a criminal homicide warrant obtained by Pennsylvania State Police.

DEER TICK VIRUS NUMBERS GROWING IN THE COMMONWEALTH

Pennsylvanians experiencing “spring fever,” that perennial urge to venture outdoors to hike, hunt, fish and explore, should plan now to protect themselves and their families against potentially serious tickborne diseases-including Lyme disease and the rare but dangerous Deer Tick Virus, which has been found in ticks at high levels for the first time in multiple locations around the commonwealth.  DEP’s Tick Surveillance and  Testing Program has detected unusually high infection rates of the dangerous and rare Deer Tick Virus in adult tick samples recently taken from multiple sites including; Fisherman’s Paradise public fishing area on Spring Creek in Center County.

MAN REMAINS IN CRITICAL CONDITION

A Lewisburg man was listed in critical condition on Saturday evening at the Geisinger Medical Center following his accident on Thursday morning. As reported by Northcentralpa.com, Kevin Eberhart crashed his tanker truck carrying 48,000 pounds of milk in Shamokin Dam. Eberhart was driving onto the ramp that connects Route 11 South to Sunbury / Route 61 when the truck rolled over onto its passenger side, spilling upwards of 20,000 pounds of milk, according to the press release. Eberhart was taken by helicopter to Geisinger.

TEAMWORK IN THE FIRE SERVICE

It was the Trout Run Volunteer Fire Department with multiple Lycoming Tioga County Fire Departments who responded to a rig fire in Cogan House Township just after 10:30 pm. As reported by the Trout Run Volunteer Fire Company on their Facebook page, Engine 16 arrived on scene and knocked down the heavily involved derrick. All three levels were reported to be heavily involved with fire. There were no injuries, as multiple fire company showed amazing teamwork.

BACKYARD BROADCASTING, LOCAL NEWS MARCH 14, 2022

 

GEISINGER CHANGING VISITOR REQUIREMENTS

Geisinger Medical Center has changed their visitor requirements. With COVID-19 cases on the decline, hospitalized patients will now be allowed four designated visitors instead of only two.  While patients are allowed to designate four visitors, only two will be allowed in the hospital room at a time. These guidelines protect the health and safety of our patients and staff.  Visiting hours are between 9 a.m. and 6 p.m. All patients and visitors must wear a mask when on Geisinger property, regardless of vaccination status. Visitors who do not comply with Geisinger’s policies, such as masking, will lose their visiting rights. 

 

PENNSYLVANIA AND FUNDING SCHOOLS

A marathon trial over how Pennsylvania funds public education reached an end Thursday but it will be months before a judge rules in the case brought by a group of poorer school districts against Republican state legislative leaders. The Commonwealth Court case, filed eight years ago, brought dozens of witnesses to Harrisburg over four months as the districts, some parents and two organizations challenged the size and distribution of subsidies approved annually by the General Assembly. The plaintiffs argue the current system denies students the “thorough and efficient system of public education” mandated by the Pennsylvania Constitution, while the top-ranking Republican leaders in the state House and Senate say funding has been growing and is adequate. The plaintiffs are six districts, several parents, the state conference of the NAACP and the Pennsylvania Association of Rural and Small Schools and they will have months to file briefs before oral argument on legal issues. It’s highly likely the losing side will appeal.

CHILD PORNOGRAPHY CHARGES

A Maryland man was sentenced to 22 years and three months in prison for child pornography charges.  As reported by Northcentralpa.com, Marc Punzalan plead guilty in federal court for alleging sexually exploiting a child. It was upwards of nine years after a South Williamsport girl took her life, that Punzalan received his sentence. And during the sentencing last week, he also received harsh words from Chief U.S. District Court Judge Matthew W. Brann, who called his conduct “sickening.” The sentence will run concurrently with a 15-year-term imposed in 2015 in Maryland for the same charge involving four other young girls.

HUNTER’S MOTORCYCLE RIDE

The Community is continuing to support the family and friends of Hunter Reynolds, the fifth grader from the Warrior Run School District who died of injuries sustained due to a car accident on Feb 27th. At 11am.  A motorcycle club, who gives to children on a regular basis, has stepped up and is holding “Hunters Motorcycle Ride” on Saturday April 30th. The Penitent Souls Motorcycle Club is holding the ride to support the family of Hunter which begins at the Meadowbrook Cristian School in Milton .

EMPLOYMENT FIGURES

The Pennsylvania Department of Labor & Industry (L&I) today released its preliminary employment figures for January 2022, showing the state’s unemployment rate down one-tenth of a percentage point to 5.4 percent. January’s report marks the 21st consecutive month without an unemployment rate increase. Meanwhile, the U.S. unemployment rate rose a tenth of a percentage point to 4.0 percent in January. The commonwealth’s unemployment rate was 2.1 percentage points below its January 2021 level and the national rate was down 2.4 points over the year. Pennsylvania’s civilian labor force – the estimated number of residents working or looking for work – increased 4,000 over the month. The employment count rose 13,000, to 6,030,000, while resident unemployment declined 9,000, to 341,000. From April 2020 through January 2022, Pennsylvania has recovered approximately 79% of jobs lost due to the pandemic.

 

7 WAHS STUDENTS SELECTED TO PERFORM IN PMEA’S ALL-STATE ENSEMBLES

Seven Williamsport Area High School students earned their seats through competitive auditions to perform with the 2022 Pennsylvania Music Educators Association’s (PMEA) All-State Ensembles, the highest level a high school musician can achieve. Those students won the following spots: Chase Bower, Tenor 1, All-State Choir, Olivia Ciabattari (Chee ab aterri), Alto 1, All-State Choir, Lydia Hall, Soprano 1, All-State Choir, Michael Harry, Tenor 2, All-State Choir, Benjamin Manetta, Oboe, All-State Wind Ensemble, Sam Radulski, String-Bass, All-State Orchestra, and  Sydney Smith, Alto 1, All-state Choir. The group of WAHS winners will join their fellow high school musicians from across the Commonwealth to play during this year’s All-State Conference and Festival from April 6-9 in the Poconos. Nationally recognized conductors at the convention direct the groups who rehearse for two days and conclude with a performance.

 

MEMORIAL TRAIL

Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR) Secretary Cindy Adams Dunn today joined trail supporters and elected officials to announce the official designation of the September 11th National Memorial Trail as a Statewide Major Greenway. The September 11th National Memorial Trail is a 1,300-mile system of trails and roadways that symbolize resiliency and character while linking the National September 11 Memorial and Museum in New York City, the National 9/11 Pentagon Memorial in Arlington, Virginia, and the Flight 93 National Memorial in Shanksville. The trail serves as a tribute to the fallen heroes who perished as a result of the September 11, 2001, terrorist attack and the many heroes who committed themselves to the response. In October 2021, President Joe Biden signed legislation that federally designated the September 11th National Memorial Trail Route. Pennsylvania’s designation comes on the heels of federal legislation, H.R. 2278, passed unanimously by the House and Senate, then signed by President Joe Biden on October 13, 2021. The bill authorizes the Secretary of the Interior to designate the September 11th National Memorial Trail route.

BACKYARD BROADCASTING, LOCAL NEWS MARCH 12 & 13, 2022

EMPLOYMENT FIGURES

The Pennsylvania Department of Labor & Industry (L&I) today released its preliminary employment figures for January 2022, showing the state’s unemployment rate down one-tenth of a percentage point to 5.4 percent. January’s report marks the 21st consecutive month without an unemployment rate increase. Meanwhile, the U.S. unemployment rate rose a tenth of a percentage point to 4.0 percent in January. The commonwealth’s unemployment rate was 2.1 percentage points below its January 2021 level and the national rate was down 2.4 points over the year. Pennsylvania’s civilian labor force – the estimated number of residents working or looking for work – increased by 4,000 over the month. The employment count rose 13,000, to 6,030,000, while resident unemployment declined 9,000, to 341,000. From April 2020 through January 2022, Pennsylvania has recovered approximately 79% of jobs lost due to the pandemic.

ACCIDENT SPILLED MILK IN SNYDER COUNTY

Yesterday morning, Shamokin Dam Police Department (SDPD) investigated a vehicle crash involving entrapment.  At approximately 1143 a.m., Kevin Eberhart of Lewisburg was operating a Truck Tractor hauling approximately 48,000 pounds of milk when he failed to negotiate the turn in the road and rolled onto its passenger side, spilling 20,000 pounds of milk spilled onto the road.   Emergency crews cut part of the cab away to remove Eberhart.  He was Life-Flighted to Geisinger Medical Center from the scene for injuries sustained.

 

A VISIT FROM THE PENNSYLVANIA SECRETARY OF EDUCATION

Pennsylvania’s Secretary of Education Noe Ortega toured the Lycoming County Career and Technical Education facility at Hughesville. As reported by SUN Gazette, Ortega asked students what they were learning and then spoke with the instructors about what and how they were teaching. Ortega visited many classrooms, including; the culinary arts, criminal justice, construction, computer and automotive studies. He has been traveling the state visiting career technical programs and suggests to instructors, that there are other pathways to learning besides the 2-and 4-year college route.  He noted that opening up education and experience in a career path to younger students helps them explore their future possibilities.

 

WILLIAMSPORT POLICE LOOKING FOR THE PUBLIC’S HELP

An active investigation has the Williamsport Bureau of Police looking for the public’s help. The individual in question is on our Facebook page and is the subject of an active investigation. Anyone with information regarding the identity of this individual is asked to contact PO Andrew Stevens at Williamsport Bureau of Police or Lycoming County Communications.

BLOOD ALCOHOL LEVEL WAS FOUR TIMES THE LEGAL LIMIT

It was an unforgettable traffic accident that sent upwards of 5 people to the hospital, damaged several vehicles and sent a car onto the roof of a restaurant in Snyder County, two Fridays ago.  Last Friday, Shamokin Dam police arrested the driver Theresa Risso for multiple charges, including; endangering the welfare of children and DUI. According to WNEP, police have reported Risso’s blood alcohol level was four times the legal limit. She is currently in Snyder County Jail in lieu of $200,000 bail.

BACKYARD BROADCASTING, LOCAL NEWS MARCH 11, 2022

COMPETITING WITH JOBS IN THE PRIVATE SECTOR

Williamsport city employees are enjoying restructuring of the Information Services Department within Williamsport City Government. In fact, employees have been given new job titles and a change in their pay grade to reflect similar jobs that exist in the private sector job market. These changes were approved at the most recent meeting of the Lycoming County Commissioners. As reported by Sun Gazette, the commissioners did their own research on the issue as well and as described by Commissioner Mussare, the Lycoming County pay rates are low. However, the commissioners were very supportive in the much needed adjustment.

K-9 UNIT RECEIVES SUPPORT FROM LOCAL MOTORCYCLE RIDING CLUB

A check to support the Williamsport Bureau of Police K-9 unit was recently donated by a local motorcycle riding club. As reported by the Sun Gazette, the Gold Wing Road Rider Association Chapter “M” of Williamsport, presented the check to Police Chief Justin Snyder, city Police Capt. Joshua Bell and city Assistant Police Chief Jason Bolt. The donation is expected to be put into helping to offset overall costs associated with maintaining and training the police dogs.

WINTER NOT DONE WITH US YET

…National Weather Service in State College issued a WINTER STORM WARNING IN EFFECT FROM 4 AM TO 7 PM EST SATURDAY for Heavy snow expected with total snow accumulations of 5 to 7 inches and winds gusting as high as 45 mph for portions of central Pennsylvania. Penn dot urges use of 511pa.com to monitor both road and weather conditions.

 

CAR THEFT IN WILLIAMSPORT

Three Williamsport juveniles were arrested following a car theft in the 1000 block of Arnold Street on Tuesday afternoon.  The vehicle was tracked by GPS and the juveniles were identified by surveillance video.  They remain the custody of the Lycoming County Juvenile Probation Office with Vehicle theft charges filed in juvenile court.

AUDIT FOR SOUTH WILLIAMSPORT AREA SCHOOL DISTRICT

It was good news for the South Williamsport Area School District. A recent audit, conducted on the 2021 finances revealed no findings or discrepancies. As reported by SUN Gazette, Bakertilly performed the audit and presented it to the school board during a recent meeting, noting that the budget’s general fund appeared to be in good shape. Reports also say the business office was “very solid” and carries out good bookkeeping.

MILK DUMPED ON VALLEY ROADWAY YESTERDAY

Yesterday morning, Shamokin Dam Police Department (SDPD) investigated a 1 vehicle crash involving 1 person with entrapment.  At approximately 1143 a.m., Kevin Eberhart of Lewisburg was operating a Truck Tractor hauling approximately 48,000 pounds of milk when he failed to negotiate the turn in the road and rolled onto its passenger side, spilling 20,000 pounds of milk spilled onto the road.   Emergency crews cut part of the cab away to remove Eberhart.  He was Life-Flighted to Geisinger Medical Center from the scene for injuries sustained.

BACKYARD BROADCASTING, LOCAL NEWS MARCH 10, 2022

LOCAL PHYSICIAN SAVES A LIFE ON A PLANE

On a flight to Phoenix, he was called on to save a life. Dr. Kashif Chaudhry is the director of cardiac electrophysiology at UPMC Williamsport and this past weekend he was on a plane when another passenger went into cardiac arrest. As reported by WNEP, Dr. Chaudhry and his wife, who is also a physician, started performing CPR. It was his first time doing so outside a hospital setting. After 90 seconds in, the woman regained a pulse and began to move. The woman was immediately taken to the hospital when the plane landed.  Dr. Chaudhry says every doctor knows how to give CPR but is now advocating for the public to learn. He says you never know when you have to save a life, and it’s good to be prepared.

AMERICAN RESCUE PLAN FUNDING ADOPTED

It was adopted and the Williamsport City Council now has the means to utilize the $25.4 million American Rescue Plan budget to improve the city’s financial outlook and quality of life in the city of Williamsport. As reported by the SUN Gazette, the breakdown of the funding, includes but is not limited to $6.2 million in public works; $3.5 million in recreation; and $3.6 million in public safety. The equity is drawn from $12.7 million in the first installment that has been received and $12.7 million in the second installment expected in late April or early May.

PROPOSALS ANNOUNCED TO HELP REDUCE GAS PRICES

With gas prices at record highs across the U.S., an increasing number of governors and state lawmakers are calling for the suspension of gas taxes to provide relief to motorists who are facing the prospect of even higher pump prices as the country cuts off Russian oil imports. Republican legislative leaders in Michigan and Pennsylvania announced proposals Wednesday to suspend or reduce state gas taxes.

AWARDS FOR LOCAL LIBRARIES

The state Department of Education (PDE) today announced that nearly $5.3 million in funding has been awarded to 21 libraries in 17 counties for the construction and rehabilitation of public library facilities. The award recipients were selected through a competitive grant process. The Keystone grants will help public library facilities improve their operations, install equipment, and upgrade security systems. Libraries receiving the Keystone Grants for Public Library Facilities include: Annie Halenbake Ross Library, City of Lock Haven – $23,950 Mount Carmel Area Public Library, Mount Carmel Borough – $59,000

511PA.COM

Motorists are encouraged to “Know Before You Go” by checking conditions on more than 40,000 roadway miles by visiting www.511PA.com. 511PA, which is free and available 24 hours a day, provides traffic delay warnings, weather forecasts, traffic speed information and access to more than 860 traffic cameras. Users can also see plow truck statuses and travel alerts along a specific route using the “Check My Route” tool.

LAND DEVELOPMENT FOR UPMC

A land development plan for UPMC Williamsport has more parking in store.  As reported by SUN Gazette, upwards of 72 more parking spaces, include as many as 13 handicap accessible spaces, will be located in an area near the emergency room entrance. According to Gary Knarr, the Williamsport City Zoning Officer, the land plan was reviewed this week at the planning commission meeting. Now, the next step for UPMC is to present the plan to City Council for their approval at their next meeting, next Thursday.

SAYING GOODBYE TO ONE OF THEIR OWN

Besides Hepburn Township, members from multiple other fire companies took part in the celebration of life, gathering yesterday morning at Sanders Mortuary in Williamsport to remember  Sharon Tempesco a life member of the Hepburn Township Volunteer Fire Company. Described as the rock of the Hepburn Township fire company, she was a genuine trailblazer, a woman with compassion for others, one mourner said at the service. Tempesco was a trained emergency medical technician, but so much more, serving many positions in the company for the past several years.

LAWSUIT AGAINST LOCAL SCHOOL DISTRICT DISMISSED

A lawsuit was dismissed that accused the Lewisburg Area School District of failing to address student bullying. According to PennLive, U.S. Middle District Judge Matthew Brann, on Tuesday – when an alleged bullying victim’s mother and stepfather failed to file an amended complaint by the March 3 court-ordered deadline. Kathleen Kurtz and Robert Straub accused the district of failing to address persistent, sexually degrading bullying and ‘harassment ultimately resulting in their teenage son being unable to attend school‘. The district claimed and the judge agreed the allegations, although sexually tinged, are not cognizable sexual harassment under Title IX.(9)

ACCIDENT VICTIM RELEASED FROM HOSPITAL

A man from Shamokin Dam was released from the Geisinger Medical Center, after he spent several days there following the crash on the Golden Strip in Shamokin Dam.  James Haught, didn’t get home yet, however, he was transferred to a physical rehabilitation facility. As reported by the Daily Item, Haught suffered from a broken back, ribs and other injuries when Theresa Risso slammed into his parked van outside Golden Chopsticks restaurant.  Risso was also released. According to Chief Timothy Bremigen, Shamokin Dam Police, charges are pending against Risso, who has two prior DUI convictions.

REGIONAL RECOVERY COALITION

Five counties are taking the stance to address the opioid epidemic. Northumberland, Snyder, Union, Montour and Columbia counties will have their final individual coalition meetings this month before forming the Regional Recovery Coalition, teaming up with the Greater Susquehanna Valley United Way and the United Way of Columbia and Montour Counties.  The coalition’s main goals, as reported by the Daily Item, include, but are not limited to, preventing overdose deaths; reduce the stigma of substance use disorder and prevention education.

BACKYARD BROADCASTING, LOCAL NEWS MARCH 9, 2021

PURSUIT ENDS IN CRASH

The pursuit began on North Main Street in Muncy and ended in the area of Clarkstown Road in Wolf Township in the early-morning hours on Feb. 26 with the arrest of Tanner Sanders. As reported by Sun Gazette, not only did Sanders’ speeds exceed 90 mph, but he committed numerous dangerous traffic violations, as he attempted to flee police.  The vehicle pursuit ended with Sanders’ vehicle out of control, crashing in a field. The subsequent foot pursuit was short lived. He was arraigned before District Judge Denise Dieter on multiple charges, including felony fleeing police, and committed to the Lycoming County Prison in lieu of $99,000 bail.

ST PATRICK’S DAY SAFETY MESSAGE

The Lycoming County DUI Task Force and Pennsylvania State Police will be conducting joint DUI enforcement details during the St. Patrick’s Day holiday If you have been drinking, make the right choice to find a sober driver to get you and your friends home safely. Before you put your keys in the ignition, remind yourself: Buzzed Driving Is Drunk Driving.

MAIL-IN BALLOTING QUESTIONING

Pennsylvania Supreme Court justices considered Tuesday whether to throw out a state law that greatly expanded mail-in balloting, holding oral argument in litigation brought in part by some of the Republican state representatives who voted overwhelmingly for it about two years ago. The unusually long, three-hour session in Harrisburg could put an end to compromise legislation that in 2019 eliminated straight-ticket voting, a priority of legislative Republicans, in exchange for no-excuse mail-in voting. Voting by mail proved immediately popular during the pandemic. Justices did not indicate when or how they will rule, although Chief Justice Max Baer suggested that if they were to throw out the 125-page law it could remain in place through the spring primary, currently scheduled for May 17.

 

PRELIMINARY HEARING CONTINUED

A Northumberland County woman, caring for a 6-month old child, when the child accidently overdosed on heroin, has a preliminary hearing next month. According to the Daily Item, Lyndsay Gray of Shamokin was originally scheduled for her hearing on Tuesday before Shamokin District Judge John Gembic, but it was continued until April. In December, Gray used heroin and passed out, when she awoke the child was unresponsive and not breathing. Geisinger-Shamokin emergency crews revived the child with Narcan, an overdose reversal medication. Gray faces a felony count of endangering the welfare of a child and remains an inmate at the Northumberland County Jail in lieu of $40,000 bail.

SEARCH WARRANT YIELDS STOLEN PROPERTY

A “high-risk” search warrant served on a Bainbridge Street Sunbury residence on March 1, revealed financial documents taken from area churches, broken open safe and a stolen Harley-Davidson motorcycle frame.  Joseph Kemper and Nicco Aurand were arraigned in front of Shamokin District Judge John Gembic last week and sent to Northumberland county jail in lieu of $50,000 bail.

INDICTMENT FOR PRODUCTION OF CHILD PORNOGRAPHY

The US Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania reported a Northumberland County man indicted on production of child pornography charges. As reported by an online media outlet, 50-year-old Scott Snyder of the Trevorton area was indicted February 24. According to United States Attorney John Gurganus, the indictment alleges on July 7, 2012 and July 13, 2013, in Northumberland County, Snyder produced child pornography in a case investigated by both the Pennsylvania State Police and the FBI. If convicted, Snyder could face a maximum of 30 years in prison.  This case, part of Project Safe Childhood, which is a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse.

GAS PRICES RELIEF ACT

Governor Tom Wolf today applauded President Joe Biden’s plan to ban the import of Russian oil, liquified natural gas and coal to the United States in response to Russia’s unprovoked and unjustified invasion of Ukraine. Also today, Governor Wolf joined with four fellow governors to urge Congress to pass legislation that would address rising gas prices by suspending the federal gas tax until the end of the year. The Gas Prices Relief Act would alleviate the consumer cost of rising gas prices while protecting the federal government’s capacity to make infrastructure investments.

BACKYARD BROADCASTING, LOCAL NEWS MARCH 8, 2022

WIND DAMAGE FROM YESTERDAY

A wind advisory, from the National Weather Service in State College, brought high winds and rain through the area yesterday.  As reported by SUN Gazette, 911 Communications reported downed trees, wires and a building collapse.  In fact, Williamsport Bureau of Fire was busy with upwards of 15 emergency calls that were directly related to the wind event.  On Grace Street, near the Commons, a vacant building collapsed.  Over a span of three hours, other area fire departments and PP&L crews were busy with multiple storm related incidents.

 

AGGRAVATED ASSAULT, ENDANGERING THE WELFARE OF CHILDREN, TERRORISTIC THREATS

A domestic dispute turned violent on Sunday night, just before 11 p.m. as a male attacked a female with a claw hammer at a 1422 Memorial Avenue address.  Sharif Mumin Cliett, was charged multiple offenses, including Aggravated Assault, Endangering the Welfare of Children and Terroristic Threats. Upon arrival at the scene, officers observed an adult female victim with several injuries to her head and arms consistent with being struck with a blunt object. CLIETT was arraigned before MDJ, denied bail and committed to the Lycoming County Prison.

THEFT FROM PENN TECH

It was a Monday arraignment for a former member of the Pennsylvania College of Technology Police Department who allegedly stole upwards of $9,000 worth of tools from his campus.  As reported by SUN Gazette, Justin Hakes of Montoursville is accused of unlawfully taking and then selling tools from March and July of 2021. Hakes is looking at multiple offenses, including burglary, theft and receiving stolen property. After his arraignment before District Judge Christian Frey, Hakes was released on $25,000 bail.

LACK OF VOLUNTEERS

It is a lack of manpower to respond to emergency calls in South Williamsport.  With that situation in mind, a three month agreement has been etched out with the Williamsport Bureau of Fire. In such, the Bureau will be responding to all emergency calls in South Williamsport. As reported by SUN Gazette, the agreement, which was initially officials from both sides of the river, took effect on Friday at 4pm.  The agreement works as a temporary solution for fires, motor vehicle accidents, ambulance and alarm calls for service. Officials on all sides are hoping for a more permanent agreement that may transition into an alliance at the 90-day marker.

STATE COURT-ORDERED PLANS

In a victory for Democrats, the Supreme Court has turned away efforts from Republicans in North Carolina and Pennsylvania to block state court-ordered congressional districting plans. In separate orders late Monday, the justices are allowing maps selected by each state’s Supreme Court to be in effect for the 2022 elections.. The state, with a delegation of nine Democrats and nine Republicans, is losing a seat in the House following the 2020 Census.

ALCOHOL PLAYED A FACTOR

In an update to the horrific crash on Friday evening in Snyder County on Routes 11 & 15, Shamokin Dam Police Chief Timothy Bremigen reported the driver, Theresa Risso, was under the influence of alcohol.  She struck multiple vehicles, critically injured one man before flipping her auto through the air with her 1 ½ year old daughter strapped in the backseat.  Although he did not reveal her blood alcohol level, as reported by the Daily Item, Bremigen did say it was a substantial factor in the crash. Risso remains in critical condition at the Geisinger Medical Center.

 

NEEDED TO BID THE PROJECT OUT FIRST

Thursday night Williamsport City Council meeting was a busy place, with many speaking in favor of repair of the Brandon Park Baseball Fields. However, it was a tabled passing by the Williamsport City Council for a resolution to hire Larson Design Group for $45,810 to design two southern baseball fields at Brandon Park. As was learned by law, the city must bid the project out first.

BACKYARD BROADCASTING, LOCAL NEWS MARCH 7, 2022

STABBING IN WILLIAMSPORT

 Emergency crews in the city of Williamsport responded last night just before 9pm for a report of a stabbing. Police and emergency medical providers received a report of an active domestic disturbance, leading to a violent attack with a claw hammer. As reported by SUN Gazette, the victim was in the 1400 block of Memorial Avenue. With the known suspect being sought by police, this investigation into these reports continues.

RELEASED FROM THE HOSPITAL

One of the victims from the Friday night crash in Snyder County has been released from the hospital. A one-year-old child who was in the vehicle that landed on the roof of Golden Chopsticks in Shamokin Dam has been released from Geisinger Medical Center early Sunday morning. According to reports from an online news media source, the child originally entered the hospital in fair condition. Geisinger reported the child’s mother, Theresa Risso of Selinsgrove and a victim from a separate vehicle, James Haught of Shamokin Dam remain in critical condition.

MOTOR VEHICLE CRASHES, LANDING ON RESTAURANT ROOF

Shamokin Dam police say a total of five people were transported to the hospital following the incidents related to a vehicle crash reported just before 6 p.m. Friday – one of them was a Golden Chopsticks employee. Theresa Rizzo not only struck multiple other vehicles as she traveled erratically south on Routes 11 & 15, but her vehicle sheared off a utility pole, hit a median barrier, went airborne, and landed on the roof of Golden Chopsticks. In addition, officers reported the vehicle’s engine dropped out of the car and skidded into the restaurant. A fire was ignited when the engine crashed into the building, but fire crews were able to extinguish the fire quickly. Police are still investigating.

DEATH OF AN INMATE

An Allenwood inmate died Friday while he was in his cell, shortly after 12:30 p.m. As reported by an online media source, Tulio Lopez was an inmate at the medium security prison, where he was found unresponsive. Life-saving efforts were unsuccessful. The death remains under investigation. Lopez was serving a 120-month sentence at the time of his passing for Conspiracy to Distribute and Possess with Intent to Distribute Cocaine and Conspiracy to Import Cocaine since August 2021.

 

FIRE COMPANY COLLABORATION

It started on Friday at 6pm. The Williamsport Bureau of Fire will be responding, in conjunction, with the South Williamsport Fire Department. The Bureau will be responding to all emergency calls in South Williamsport, therein increasing response times and amount of staff responding to those incidents in South Williamsport.

21ST ANNUAL EDUCTION CELEBRATION

It was a night of celebration and appreciation for students from nine area high schools, as they were honored at a celebration promoting students and their efforts.  The Williamsport/Lycoming Area Chamber of Commerce held the 21st Annual Education Celebration on Thursday evening. As reported by SUN Gazette, Willow Perakovich of Muncy High School was chosen as the Outstanding Senior at the event. Other schools and their brightest students were honored, including but not limited to; Brennah Kennedy, Hughesville High School, Dustin Stoetzel, Jersey Shore Area High School and Allyia Kennedy, Loyalsock Township High School.  In addition, the educators received honors and the business Partner in Education award was given to PPL Electric Utilities.

 

RESCUE ASSIGNMENT AT WORLDS END STATE PARK

It took a rescue assignment, upwards of 50 responders and much of the day, Saturday, to retrieve five women from the trails in Worlds End State Park. As reported by Sun Gazette, the women required assistance when one of them fell on the ice. Although no one was seriously injured, the rescue was an intensive effort and risky for all involved.  The one fall victim was taken by ambulance to the Geisinger facility at the Pennsdale interchange.

 

PA SYSTEM OF SCHOOL ASSESSMENT EXAMS

Student scores on Pennsylvania standardized tests fell sharply last year in most categories, although state education officials cautioned the numbers were so distorted by pandemic conditions that they are of limited use for comparison to previous years — particularly regarding statewide trends. The Education Department on Friday released results of the Pennsylvania System of School Assessment exams for grades three to eight that showed broad declines in both math and English language arts. The Keystone Exams that assess algebra, literature and biology for high school students had more mixed results.

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