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.

BACKYARD BROADCASTING, LOCAL NEWS MARCH 5 & 6, 2022

21ST ANNUAL EDUCATION CELEBRATION

It was a night of celebration and appreciation 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 eductators received honors and the business Partner in Education award was given to PPL Electric Utilities.

PA DEPT OF EDUCATION RELEASES ASSESSMENT EXAM SCORES

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. The Keystone exam participation at the high school level was so low, said Brian Campbell, director of the Bureau of Curriculum, Assessment and Instruction, that some smaller schools did not obtain sufficient data to calculate results and publish them without violating confidentiality of individual students’ results.

RESCUE ASSIGNMENT TO THE WORLDS END STATE PARK

It took a rescue assignment, upwards of 50 responders and much of the day, yesterday, 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 Penndale interchange.

 

WILLIAMSPORT BUREAU OF FIRE WORKING CLOSELY WITH SOUTH WILLIAMSPORT FIRE DEPARTMENT

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.

DEATH IN ALLENWOOD PRISON

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.

FIVE PEOPLE INJURED FOLLOWING ACCIDENT IN SNYDER COUNTY

In total, five people were injured and three were hospitalized following the crash in Snyder County on Friday night. According to WNEP, it was during the hectic, Friday evening rush hour on Routes 11 & 15, also known as the Golden Strip, when an erratic driver, traveling southbound struck multiple vehicles, sheered off a utility pole, struck a mini-van and seemingly launched into the air, coming to rest on the roof of Golden Chopsticks. Updated reports alleged the vehicle was traveling at a high rate of speed. Both occupants, a woman and infant, remain in the hospital.

BACKYARD BROADCASTING, LOCAL NEWS MARCH 4, 2022

WAHS JUNIOR ACCEPTED TO MOORE COLLEGE OF ART AND DESIGN’S SUMMER ART AND DESIGN INSTITUTE

Avery Sauers’ life has been anything but ordinary. Never taking the adversities life has dealt her as an excuse, she has cleared her own path to her ultimate passion: digital art. Born deaf, the 16-year-old Williamsport Area High School junior’s interest in digital art grew from her love of cartoons and video games — an interest cultivated and nurtured by her parents and teachers alike that is now driving her toward a career in animation or game design. The young artist recently was accepted into Moore College of Art and Design’s premiere Summer Art and Design Institute (SADI) in Philadelphia. The four-week, pre-college summer program will provide Sauers with the opportunity to explore popular tracks of study for credit, including animation, illustration, painting and game design. To help cover the cost of SADI’s tuition and fees, Sauers plans to hold two fundraising events at Eat-and-Run Catering, 1000 Commerce Park Drive. At her first event, Bold Beginnings, she’ll lead participants in painting a landscape beginning at 6:30 p.m. on March 31. The second event will run from 4-7 p.m. on April 10. That event will include an Italian dinner, basket raffle, an auction of her original paintings and a 50/50 drawing. Registration is required for both functions. For more information or to register, visit www.averysboldbeginnings.com.

VEHICLE ACCIDENT CLOSES EAST THIRD STREET

A driver, who was unnamed, was taken to UPMC Williamsport following a two-vehicle accident on East Third Street near the Interstate 180 overpass in Loyalsock Township yesterday around 2 p.m. This vehicle struck another, causing no injuries in the second vehicle.  A portion of East Third Street was closed until 4:40 p.m.

 

APPROVAL FOR THE SPLASH PAD PROJECT

At the Williamsport City Council meeting last night, the council approved plans for the splash pad project for Shaw Place Park.  Next, as reported by SUN Gazette, Jon Sanders, Williamsport City Engineer, needs to obtain cost estimates to design the water line and electrical installation. Thereby, comparing individual costs to the bundle package offered by the pad builder, VORTEX USA, for $300,000. Although the money to support this project comes from the American Rescue Plan, the projected installation would be fall with the first use in summer of 2023.

ANOTHER LAWSUIT FOR THE CITY

A second lawsuit has been filed, in Lycoming County Court, by a Williamsport police officer claiming he was passed over for promotions. As reported by SUN Gazette, Lt. Steven Helm has filed a second suit. This one, filed this week, is against Mayor Derek Slaughter and the City of Williamsport. According to reports, even though Helm has plans of retirement in April, this suit alleges Mayor Slaughter did not consider him for the newly created assistant chief position in May 2021.  Helm had filed a similar suit in federal district court last April alleging he was not promoted to assistant chief in retaliation for exercising his First Amendment rights.

WEAPON OF MASS DESTRUCTION CHARGE

According to a press release from the Pennsylvania State Police at Lamar, Troopers made a traffic stop on High Street in Flemington just after 2 a.m. Wednesday and found a vehicle filled with weapons and a suspected explosive device. The vehicle operator, James H. Schmidtberg, from Lock Haven, was arrested and charged with multiple counts of illegal possession of firearms and possession of a weapon of mass destruction. Schmidtberg was remanded to the Clinton County Correctional Facility awaiting a preliminary hearing on $250,000 bail.

NO CONTEST PLEA

William Allen Payne-Blakely, of Lorrain Ohio, pled No Contest this week to charges related to his August 2021 attempt to flee a traffic stop on Interstate 80 in Clinton County.  Payne-Blakely entered pleas to Felony 3 Fleeing and Eluding a Police Officer, Felony 3 Possession of a Firearm Without a License, and Misdemeanor DUI on Tuesday morning.   The plea was entered two days before he was scheduled to go on trial for the incident before Court of Common Pleas Judge Michael F. Salisbury on March 3rd.  District Attorney Dave Strouse and defense attorney Fred Lingle had already selected a jury on the case and were scheduled to begin the trial at 8:30 a.m. Thursday.  Following the entry of his plea, Payne-Blakely was immediately sentenced to State Prison for a maximum term of 10 years, and eligibility for parole after 5 years.

 

NOT GUILTY PLEA ENTERED VIA VIDEO

Accused triple homicide killer Matthew Reed has pleaded not guilty, and could face the death penalty. As reported by an online media outlet, Northumberland County District Attorney Tony Matalewicz says Reed filed his not guilty plea through his lawyers Thursday in Northumberland County Court – he appeared via video and he meets three of the 18 aggravating circumstances in which the state can seek the death penalty if convicted by a jury. The crimes were committed, according to the district attorney, while one of the victims was a prosecution witness to a murder or other felony he committed, and the victim was killed for the purpose of preventing testimony against him in any criminal proceedings. In addition, Reed is said to have committed a killing while in the perpetration of a felony and Reed also committed the offense knowingly creating a grave risk of death to another person, in addition to the victims of the offense. Reed stands accused of killing 58-year-old Susan Williams, 59-year-old James Dicken and 17-year-old John Paul Dicken, all of Snydertown, in June 2021.

AUCTION FOR CLOSED RESTAURANT

An equipment auction, offering the public yet another way to celebrate the now closed Country Cupboard Restaurant is scheduled to begin online on March 7th and run through the end of March. As reported by Northcentralpa.com, items up for auction include: tables, chairs, kitchen equipment, decor, leftover merchandise, and more. PCI Auction Group is the auction group running the online auction will begin on March 7 online, and will continue through the end of March.  The decision to hold an auction arose, in part, from the “outpouring of support and requests for different assets from the community,” according to Jared Mizrahi, President of the PCI Auction Group. “The best way to honor all of those requests is letting all interested buyers bid.”  Also, the sale of Country Cupboard assets—including items like furniture, fixtures, and equipment–will ensure company profits as the owners decide their plans for the space. Registration to bid is on www.pciauctions.com.

BACKYARD BROADCASTING, LOCAL NEWS MARCH 3, 2022

THE MULTIPLE ROLES OF A POLICE CHIEF

Old Lycoming Township has opened the door to sharing a police chief with the Tiadaghton Valley Regional Police Department. With Detective Sergeant Kriner returning back to his roots of criminal investigation Old Lycoming Township has now finalized a memorandum of understanding with Tiadaghton Valley Regional Police Department to begin the sharing of Police Chief Nathan DeRemer to oversee both departments. Chief DeRemer is a proven leader with a deep understanding on how to make regionalization work, and although serving on an “interim basis” he will immediately begin taking action to make the necessary changes needed in an attempt to further the success of the mission.

 

PRISON CORRECTIONS OFFICERS ON PROBATION

Lycoming County Court this week sentenced a former prison corrections officer. As reported by Sun Gazette, Brian T. Scott, who used his position of authority to solicit sexual favors from several female inmates between Oct 2020 and Jan 2021. Scott was sentenced to two years of probation and a fine and court costs over $4,000.

 

BROADCASTING THEIR SCHOOL SPORTS IN JERSEY SHORE

Approval for broadcasting their school sporting events was part of the agenda at the most recent Jersey Shore Area School Board meeting. As reported by Sun Gazette, PlayOn! Sports will charge the district a one-time fee of $3,500 to access the necessary hardware and software they need for programming. As per the agreement, an E-commerce platform for customer registration, payment processing and customer support for the sale of subscriptions in order to watch school activities and all other National Federation of State High School Associations Network School Broadcast System events is necessary.

A NEW NAME FOR THE INTEGRATION FORMATION

A new Commonwealth University representing the integration exists.  In the official state system announcement: Lock Haven, Bloomsburg, and Mansfield Universities have honored the commitment to maintain each institution’s historic names and identities through integration. On March 2, 2022, the State System Board of Governors unanimously approved the name Commonwealth University of Pennsylvania to represent the integrated entity for Bloomsburg, Lock Haven, and Mansfield Universities. The selection of Commonwealth University as the name for the integrated entity serves the Middle States accreditation of the institution, and other accreditation and contractual purposes. Commonwealth University will not serve as a public-facing identifier, but will remain in the background, allowing the universities to legally and compliantly become one entity while maintaining our strong brands in our regions and beyond.

VEHICLE INTO BUILDING IN WATSONTOWN

On Monday, just after 3 p.m., Watsontown Police were dispatched to 223 Main St, the location of TK Tackle, for a report of a crash with a vehicle into a structure. Police arrived on scene and through investigation found that a 2011 Cadillac Escalade, operated by an 85-year-old male from Allenwood. The operator, who was the sole occupant of the vehicle, sustained minor injuries. Following an investigation, no criminal charges are pending.

PRESENTATION FOR POLICE AIMED AT THEIR MENTAL HEALTH

A ‘Police Trauma’ presentation offered in Sunbury yesterday was aimed at helping local police officers better prepare to handle potentially traumatic situations. Executive Deputy Attorney General for Special Initiatives Robert Reed gave the presentation and noted that extreme trauma earlier in people’s lives can cause damage to a person’s emotional, behavioral, and cognitive state and in turn, could lead them to a life of crime. As reported by the Daily Item, Reed also emphasized the need for better mental health evaluations for law enforcement.

VICTIM SUCCOMBS TO WOUNDS

A garage fire on Feb 21 in East Buffalo Township was the cause of fatal burns and other injuries to a man who was flown, via Life Flight, to the Lehigh Valley Regional Burn Center in Allentown.  According to the Daily Item, Lehigh County Coroner Eric Minnich, Wilbur Gower, 71 years of age died on Tuesday evening due to complications of thermal trauma. His death is ruled as accidental.

GROUPS CONTINUE TO GRIEVE

It is a devastating hit to the Heartland Youth Football and Cheerleading group, as they prepare to honor one of their own. As reported by the Daily Item, the Warrior Run fifth-grader, Hunter Reynolds, who recently lost his life in an auto accident over the past weekend, will be honored as the young players move to raise funds for the family.  The league will be donating $3 a player who signs up for the league’s football camp held in July in Milton.  Donations can sent via the instructions on the Facebook page under Hunter Reynolds.

BACKYARD BROADCASTING, LOCAL NEWS MARCH 2, 2022

HOPES FOR A BRIGHT FUTURE

Aspiration for 2022, coming from the Central PA Chamber of Commerce, according to Tea Jay Aikey, President and CEO of the commerce, include solving the worker shortage with ‘second chance’ workers, and inspiring young people to start thinking about the future. As reported by an online media source, second chance workers are those who may have been incarcerated, and have criminal records. Job fairs for school age children are also huge strides forward in getting kids to think about what they like to do and what they can do with their future.

 

NEWLY HIRED ASSISTANT SUPERINTENDENT

The Williamsport Area School District hired Dr. Richard Poole as its new assistant superintendent Tuesday night.  Dr. Poole, who is currently the district’s student services director, will take on his new post beginning July 1. He will replace Dr. Susan L. Bigger, who is set to retire on June 30.   Poole will bring with him more than 20 years of combined teaching and administrative experience that have prepared him for this position.   

 

RESIDENTIAL BREAK-IN

Three people are facing charges after a residential break in on Feb 5. Destiny Paige Hoy of Williamsport, Brian Keith Hoy of Lock Haven, and Todd Edward Hubert of South Williamsport allegedly entered a trailer near the 1900 block of Beech Street. Destiny Hoy allegedly threatened to kill children that were inside the trailer at the time of the incident. As reported by Northcentralpa.com, although they differ only in bail costs, all three face multiple charges including first-degree felony burglary and third-degree criminal trespassing.

 

GRANT PRESENTED TO SUPPORT GEISINGER JANET WEIS CENTER CHILDREN’S HOSPITAL’S LIFE TEAM

A $5,000 grant was presented to Geisinger Health Foundation to support the Geisinger Janet Weis Children’s Hospital’s Life Team, as reported by Northcentralpa.com.  The organization powered by Dunkin’ Donuts, called the Dunkin’ Joy in Childhood Foundation, recently made the move to provide support to the child life specialists, who are there to do their part by helping to reduce stress and anxiety of children when they are in the hospital.  As reported, the Geisinger Health Foundation was one the many 80 organizations selected throughout the United States to receive this Fall Regional Grant.  

 

STOLEN INFORMATION FROM NORTHUMBERLAND AND MONTOUR COUNTY RESIDENTS

A New York man is scheduled for federal prison following an organized scheme to defraud Sprint of $1.3 million and used stolen information from 390 victims. Those victims include those from Northumberland and Montour counties. The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania said Horace Henry was sentenced Monday to serve upwards of 12 years by U.S. District Court Chief Judge Matthew W. Brann for fraudulently ordering more than 1,600 iPhones. According to United States Attorney John C. Gurganus, Henry previously pleaded guilty to charges of conspiracy to commit mail fraud and aggravated identity theft. Henry and two co-conspirators executed a scheme to defraud Sprint through fraudulent cellphone service contracts. The contracts were created using stolen personal identification information of 390 identity theft victims, resulting in bogus orders for 1,630 iPhone XR cellphones.

 

PENNDOT, STATE ASSOCIATION OF TOWNSHIP SUPERVISORS ANNOUNCE MUNICIPAL FUNDING, DISCUSS BIPARTISAN INFRASTRUCTURE LAW AND LOCAL ROAD AND BRIDGE NEEDS

The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) and the Pennsylvania State Association of Township Supervisors (PSATS) today discussed the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL) as well as local-governments’ road and bridge needs and investment options. PennDOT has also committed $455.9 million in liquid fuels payments to help certified municipalities maintain their roads and bridges, approximately 1 percent more than last year. There are 120,596 miles of public roads in Pennsylvania. Some 2,560 municipalities manage an estimated 78,000 linear miles of roadway and more than 6,600 bridges longer than 20 feet.

In addition to identifying state transportation needs, Governor Tom Wolf’s Transportation Revenue Options Commission outlined that the unmet funding need on locally owned roads and bridges is estimated to be nearly $3.9 billion per year, growing to $5.1 billion annually by 2030.

 

 

 

HIT AND RUN IN NORTHUBERLAND COUNTY

A hit and run in Watsontown finds a Watsontown man facing charges. On Monday, February 28, 2022 at just before 7 pm, Watsontown Police were dispatched to the 200 block of Main St, for a report of a hit and run to an unoccupied vehicle.  A subsequent investigation found that Bradley Kreps, was driving, and while leaving a parking space, struck another vehicle.  Kreps failed to stop and provide information and left the scene and faces summary charges of Accidents Involving an Unoccupied Vehicle and Duty to Provide Information and Render Aid.  Charges have been filed at the office of Magisterial District Judge Michael I. Diehl of Milton.

 

 

NEWS OF DESTRUCTION SQUASHED

Lycoming county has taken great strides tell the public they have no intention of taking over and subsequently demolishing the church and or cemetery on the Alvira property.  As reported by SUN Gazette, there have been negotiations to purchase the land from the federal government for upwards of 20 years. However, there remains no intention of doing anything destructive with either the church or the cemetery, therefore leaving both open to the public.  According to Commissioner Rick Mirabito the county has been negotiating for some time to acquire the land, but noted the historic significance of the Alvira property and the importance of preserving the church and cemetery. As a piece of history, Alvira was a village of about 500 residents located near Allenwood. In 1942, the federal government ordered the people living there to move, seizing their properties, creating a way for an ordnance depot.

 

DISTURBANCE AND DUI IN SOUTH WILLIAMSPORT

It was a Lycoming County man who created a disturbance, by allegedly “throwing tables and trying to fight” within a local Moose Lodge on West Southern Avenue in South Williamsport. But, unfortunately for that man, it didn’t stop there. As reported by SUN Gazette, David Harding was arrested for DUI on Feb. 23 at approximately 10 pm and taken to the hospital for blood tests, which he subsequently refused. However, once released to his wife, he then called Tony Mussare, threatening his life and that of his family. The next day, in front of District Judge Gary Whiteman, Harding was arraigned on charges of felony terroristic threats, misdemeanor harassment and DUI and released on $25,000 bail.

 

 

NO RECOMMENDATION FROM THE COMMITTEE

Williamsport City Council’s finance committee forwarded a resolution for a splash pad at Shaw Place Park in the city’s East End with no recommendation, as reported by Sun Gazette. The Vortex USA Inc. project has a price tag of $206,867, with water features, including a filtration system and controls. However, the committee had also wanted sidewalk access to the splash pad facility, shade trees planted, a surveillance camera and an addition of benches.

 

NORTHUMBERLAND COUNTY DISTRICT ATTORNEY LOOKING FOR MORE HELP

The Northumberland County District Attorney Tony Matulewicz has requested the County Commissioners to move to approve another assistant district attorney to provide the much needed help for the growing criminal caseloads in the county. As reported by the Daily Item, the Commissioners looked at it positively, as they are down to only four ADAs in Northumberland County.  They had lost upwards of 7 people in this position in the past four years. 

 

ROAD CONSTRUCTION AHEAD THIS WEEK

Those who travel Route 15 northbound and southbound are advised of rolling roadblocks this week between mile marker 148 (Trout Run exit) in Lycoming County and mile marker 162 (Liberty exit) in Tioga County for utility work. As reported by Northcentralpa.com, tomorrow, Tri-County Rural Electric, will be performing rolling roadblocks just north of mile marker 165 (Sebring exit) and just north of mile marker 155 (Route 184 / Steam Valley interchange), in order for them to pull utility cables across the roadway. Work is expected between the hours of 9:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m., as weather permits. 

BACKYARD BROADCASTING, LOCAL NEWS MARCH 1, 2022

HUNTING FOR A CAUSE

A benefit for the Pennsylvania Wounded Warriors was on Saturday. Upwards of 51 teams of squirrel hunters returned to the Wallis Run Rod and Gun club in Trout Run after the morning’s hunt.  While some hunters returned empty-handed, some brought back nearly a dozen gray, black and red squirrels for weighing. The organizers of the event began in the o dark thirty hours of the morning to make breakfast and then lunch for the hunters. As the club’s 3rd annual event, fifty percent of the proceeds went to support Pa Wounded Warriors. The hunters raised $6,000. Two wounded warriors participated in the event — Josh Rockwell, of Montoursville, and Chris Boyer, of Montgomery. Both were victims of IEDs.

4 th Arrest in Snyder Homicide Investigation

Yesterday, shortly after 9:00 AM RONALD BUTLER was taken into custody at 653 Livermore Road in Hepburn Township, Lycoming County, PA. on an Old Lycoming Twp Police arrest warrant. BUTLER was charged with two counts of felony Endangering the Welfare of Children and one count of misdemeanor Obstruction in Child Abuse Cases. BUTLER was arraigned in front of District Magistrate William Solomon. He was committed to a correctional facility in lieu of $200,000.00 bail. RONALD BUTLER is the father of ECHO BUTLER and resided in the Livermore Rd. residence with ECHO BUTLER, MARIE SNYDER and the SNYDER CHILDREN.

 

STATE POLICE ARREST ON LYCOMING CREEK ROAD

It was a burglary in progress call in the 2600 block of Lycoming Creek Road in which a man was attempting to force his way into a home about 8:40 p.m. on Feb. 17. Ricky G. Tedesco, standing on a back porch, refused to obey trooper commands. He was arrested, after a brief struggle.  Following his arraignment before District Judge Denise Dieter on multiple charges including felony attempted burglary and resisting arrest he was committed to the Lycoming County Prison in lieu of $100,000 bail.

PREPARING TO ACT ON ATV USAGE IN CLINTON COUNTY

The linking up of multiple ATV trails in western Clinton County will be acted on by the Chapman Township supervisors.  ATV usage on 13 township roads will be a highlight on this month’s agenda.  As reported by therecordonline.com, the township supervisors are holding a public hearing with the proposed ordinance in the Chapman Township Fire Company meeting hall in North Bend on Tuesday, March 15 at 6 p.m.

U.S. REPRESENTATIVE FRED KELLER NOT RUNNING AGAIN

U.S. Rep. Fred Keller of Pennsylvania changed his mind Monday and said he will not run for reelection if he must face a primary election against another Republican incumbent. Pennsylvania’s highest court selected new boundaries for congressional districts last week, and Keller and U.S. Rep. Glenn Thompson — who represent vast swaths of northern Pennsylvania where population is shrinking or stagnant — found their homes drawn into the same district, as the state adjusts to losing a seat. In a statement, Keller said, “I am not going to run against another member of Pennsylvania’s Republican Congressional Delegation.” Instead of challenging Thompson, Keller had initially said he would run in the new 9th District next door, where Republican Rep. Dan Meuser lives. Keller, 56, was elected in a special election in 2019 and is the newest member of Pennsylvania’s delegation.

SAD START TO THE WEEK FOR THE WARRIOR RUN AREA SCHOOL DISTRICT

In letter from the Warrior Run School Superintendent Alan Hack announced the tragic loss of a fifth grader due to a motor vehicle accident.  It is with great sadness that they share with entire school community of the untimely passing of Hunter Reynolds, a 5th grade student at Warrior Run Middle School.  Counseling services will be made available to staff and students.  If parents have special counseling concerns or would like additional support, please contact the counselor or building principal. The entire school district expresses their deepest sympathies to the family and friends of Hunter and ask everyone to remember Hunter’s family, friends, and our Warrior Run Family as all grieve the loss of this young Defender.

ANNUAL FIRST COOKOUT OF SPRING 2024

TUESDAY, MARCH 19th STARTING AT 6am

All listeners are welcome to attend our annual First Cookout of Spring! Over 2000 Country Store brand hot dogs from Tony’s Deli will be served, along with fresh Stroehmann rolls from Bimbo Bakeries, a variety of sides from the Weis Market Deli, samples from Eat & Run Catering along with ACME BBQ Co., Pepsi products and UTZ brand snacks! It’s all FREE while supplies last. We hope to see you there!

While you’re here…say hello to our friends and sponsors

EAT & RUN CATERING

TONY’S DELICATESSEN & FRESH MEATS

BIMBO BAKERIES

WEIS MARKETS

PEPSI

UTZ BRAND SNACKS

ACME BBQ CO.

BILLTOWN PHOTOBOOTHS

RENEWAL BY ANDERSEN

CADDYSHACK PORTA JOHNS

PHASE 2 VEHICLE SPECIALTIES

STUDENT TRANSPORTATION OF AMERICA

GIRLZ IN THE HOODIE

Facebook