BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS MAY 3, 2022

MAN SENTENCED IN MURDER FOR HIRE PLOT

A man from Williamsport who pleaded guilty to his role in a murder for hire case has been sentenced to life in state prison in Lycoming County Court.  According to the Sun Gazette, 52 year old Edward Heck paid Kenneth Wayne Smith of Cambria county 10 thousand dollars to kill his wife and two dogs in 2018.  Smith had been sentenced to life in prison after pleading guilty to the crime, but died while incarcerated last year.  Charges against Heck, like aggravated assault, criminal conspiracy and cruelty to animals were dropped.

MAN VIOLATES PROBATION AT T-BALL GAME

A Lock Haven man violated his probation Sunday by allegedly being under the influence of alcohol and acting erratically at a T-ball game in Blanchard.  According to Crimewatch, witnesses say Wesley Cleon Snyder had to be told by league officials that he would be contacted by authorities for his behavior which included, taking items like a uniform and a hat from the dugout, smoking on the field, ordering food and not being able to pay for it and causing general chaos.  It was found that Snyder was on supervision with the Clinton County Adult Probation Department, where he had never shown up for any appointments.  He was apprehended at a residence where he was visiting for drug and additional charges and is in Clinton County Correctional Facility for violating his probation and parole.

JUDGE SERVES BENCH WARRANT TO FORMER PA AG

Former Pennsylvania Attorney General Kathleen Kane is in custody after a Montgomery County Judge served her with a bench warrant last week for violating parole of her 2016 perjury conviction by being involved in a DUI accident in Scranton.  According to Penn Live, a Montgomery County judge called for Kane’s arrest after the March 12th incident.  She had served 8 months of her 23 month sentence and is now back in the Montgomery County facility outside of Philadelphia.

REAL ID ENFORCEMENT COUNTDOWN STARTS NOW

Penn DOT has partnered with the TSA and Philadelphia International Airport to announce a one year countdown for the federal enforcement of the Pennsylvania Real ID.  According to a press release, if any resident wishes to board any domestic flight or enter a federal building that requires a federally acceptable ID after May 3rd , 2023 they will need either valid Passport, military ID or Pennsylvania’s Real ID driver’s license or ID card.  To date PennDOT has issued 1.6 million Real IDs, but there is no requirement to get one. 

MAN WHO ALLEGEDLY HARMED INFANT CHARGED

A 25 year old Williamsport man who allegedly told police that he was frustrated by caring for an infant a year ago, has now been charged with several felonies after the baby was found to have broken arms and a broken femur consistent with abuse described.  According to North Central PA dot com, in a police interview, Brad Christopher Wright first said the infant was stuck in the crib, but changed his story several times to explain the injuries last year.  Wright will appear in court this week for his preliminary hearing on first and second degree felony aggravated assault on a victim less than 6 as well as charges for endangering the welfare of children.  He is being held at Lycoming County Prison on 175 thousand dollars bail.

CIVIL SUIT AGAINST SCHOOL DROPPED

A federal civil suit brought against Jersey Shore Area School District, a former student teacher and two school administrators has been dismissed after the family of the victim declined to press any charges.  According to The Express, Alexandria Sandra Kaluzny pleaded guilty to three counts of indecent assault and one count of statutory sexual assault after she was arrested for cultivating a relationship with a Jersey Shore Middle School boy in September of 2021.  She was sentenced to 2-10 years on prison and is required to register for Megan’s Law for 25 years.  The boy told his family Kaluzny gave him money and gifts before they moved out of the area to avoid public scrutiny. 

SOUTHERN NY TV ANCHOR FIRED

A Southern New York television news anchor has been fired after a 607 Predator YouTube video surfaced of him acting inappropriately by trying to meet a 15 year old boy.  According to First News Now, Zack Wheeler was taken off the air by the WETM 18 management after they were alerted to the video and later announced in a social media post that Wheeler, who was named news director last February and was the 6pm anchor was no longer employed by the network.  No charges have been filed in this case so far in connection to the video that went viral after its release April 30th.

KINDERGARTEN REGISTRATION ONLINE AT MIFFLINBURG

A reminder for parents that many area kindergarten registration processes for the 2022-23 school year began in April and Mifflinburg Area Schools in particular announced all their registration will be online.  Registration forms can be submitted electronically at Mifflinburg dot org.  There is a list of required documents for parents to bring to the office once the online form is submitted to finalize the enrollment of their children in school.  If you don’t have internet service, you can make an appointment at the District administration building by calling 570-966-8200.  Children must be 5 years old by September 1st, 2022 to start school this year.

BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS MAY 2, 2022

MAN JAILED FOR TRESPASSING

A man has been incarcerated for trespassing and other charges after he was caught inside a garage owned by Robert Dittman in Muncy Creek Township.  According to an affidavit from State Police, 62 year old Jeffrey Prokop was caught inside the attached garage and in possession of an instrument of crime.  Prokop was arraigned in District Court on additional burglary charges and is in Lycoming County Prison today in lieu of $75,000 bail.

PRELIMINARY HEARING SCHEDULED

The Selinsgrove man accused of shooting his wife on April 18th has a preliminary hearing scheduled for June 7th.  According to the Daily Item, 33 year old Brad Bailor is being held without bail at the Snyder County Jail for criminal homicide and first degree murder after he allegedly shot 32 year-old Leslie Bailor in their South Market Street home last month.  District Judge John Reed moved the hearing to the Snyder County Courthouse instead of his Penn Township office since there is expected to be a large amount of people attending.    

PSP TO REGULATE GHOST GUN PARTS

Pennsylvania state police are about to follow suit of the federal government and implement a regulation to require background checks for the purchase of partially manufactured gun frames and receivers, requiring dealers and gunsmiths to inventory unregistered firearms they handle.  According to North Central PA dot com, this is a response to the fast growing problem of “Ghost Guns” or those that are manufactured at home and untraceable.   The federal regulation takes this July, and the Pennsylvania State police say they will implement the regulation soon after that. 

DEADLINE TO REGISTER TO VOTE IS TODAY

Today is the deadline to register to vote or change your party affiliation, so that you can participate in the May 17th Primary Election. It’s 15 days before Election Day.  Voters can expect to choose candidates for governor, the US Senate and Congress,  203 state representatives, and members of the state senate.  Residents can go to the voter registration office or register online vote.pa.gov.

POLICE SEEK THREE SUSPECTS WHO DAMAGED CARS

Pennsylvania State Police are seeking information about suspects who may have damaged vehicles on the lot of a Selinsgrove car dealer at the end of March.  According to North Central Pa dot com, police have video evidence of three unknown people in three separate vehicles – a grey and red Dodge Charger and a Black Mercedes – who arrived on the lot of Murray Motors Chevrolet on North Susquehanna Trail about 10pm on March 27th and damaged windows of three cars on the lot.  If you know anything about this incident, call Selinsgrove State Police – 570-374-8145. 

STATE TO EXTEND WAIVER FOR CRITICAL HEALTHCARE REGULATION

Legislation authored by State Rep. Joe Hamm was recently passed by the state House that would help emergency responders answer emergency calls. During the governor’s COVID-19 Emergency Declaration, the regulation that increased the number of EMTs required per ambulance was waived to facilitate access to critical healthcare services. By extending this waiver, it will be easier for Basic Life Support Units from Volunteer Fire Companies to respond with a certified driver and an EMT.

MILTON TO HOLD PUBLIC MEETING ON PARKING

An in person and virtual public meeting will be held by the Borough of Milton on May 11th at 5:30pm to gather feedback and opinion on changing parking considerations on Broadway from the railroad tracks east to the borough line.  According to the Daily Item, they wish to discuss the possible elimination of the parking and ask speakers who wish to attend and voice their thoughts keep their comments to 3 minutes.  All borough residents are encouraged to attend either in person or on Zoom.  The virtual meeting instructions will be posted on the boroughs website milton pa dot org and on their Facebook page. 

RECYCLING GRANTS FOR LOCAL MUNICIPALITIES

Governor Wolf has announced grants that will go to local county and municipal governments this year for recycling and leaf collection programs.   Northumberland County, Sunbury Municipal Authority, Shamokin, Milton and Coal Township will share in approximately $850-thousand in grants.  Coal Township received the maximum grant of $350,000.  Shamokin will use the over 114 thousand dollars in their grant for recycling and leaf-collection efforts.

BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS APRIL 29, 2022

CAR FIRE ON I-180 IN WILLIAMSPORT

The remnants of a car were left behind on I-180 following an emergency incident yesterday when a Pontiac Firebird quickly caught fire around 11:30am.  According to the Sun Gazette, Matthew Lantz was driving in the westbound lanes of the interstate near Basin Street when black smoke came from the hood and he pulled over.  The car went up in flames.  City fire officials say the cause of the fire was mechanical failure.  Witnesses say the thick black smoke could be seen from the south side of Williamsport.  Lantz was not hurt in the incident.

PRIMARY CANDIDATE HANDED PROTECTIVE ORDER

A candidate running as a Republican for Pennsylvania’s Lt. Governor, in next month’s Primary Election has been ordered by a Wayne County judge to stay away from his home after his wife made accusations that he made threats, and mentally and physically abused her.  According to the Sun Gazette, 47 year old Teddy Daniels of Honesdale, has been removed from his home, forbidden to have any contact with his wife or children and had to turn over his firearms.  Daniels said he is a victim of political terrorism through his wife’s accusations and that he will be staying in the race.  A hearing on the protective order will be held next week.  Daniels, is one of nine candidates seeking the GOP nomination for Lt Governor in the state’s May 17 primary.

DOUBLE FATAL ACCIDENT IN CENTRE COUNTY

There was another accident in Walker Township, Centre County Wednesday that killed two and seriously injured one person after a head-on collision.  According to State Police at Rockview say 24 year old Tora Cassel, from Lock Haven, was seriously injured when she had a head on collision with a Chevy Malibu driven by a 71 year old Petersburg man who had drifted into her northbound oncoming lane on Nittany Valley Dr. about 3pm Wednesday.  She was wearing her seatbelt and was transported to UPMC Altoona in Bellfonte.  Her passenger was not wearing a seatbelt properly and was killed in the accident, and the Petersburg man in the Malibu who allegedly caused the accident, was also killed.  Both of the identities of the people who suffered fatal injuries have been withheld until next of kin can be notified.

LOYALSOCK CLEAN UP DAY

There will be one spring clean-up day in Loyalsock Township for residential properties within the township only, to pick up sticks and small branches, garden waste, landscaping and leaves.  According to township information, the crew will go through the neighborhoods one time starting at 7am on Monday, May 16th so all debris to be picked up must be out on the curb before that time.  Items that will be left behind are dirt and sod, rocks, lumber and construction material, root balls, stumps and wood chips.  Residents are asked to keep the roads and sidewalks unblocked by the waste and debris. 

BRUSH FIRE CONSUMED TEN ACRES

A fire that consumed about 10 acres of the woods near St. Michaels Road north of the Lycoming-Lewis Township line yesterday was started by a powerline coming down on a dead tree in a remote area.  According to the Sun Gazette, several community volunteer fire companies, including Trout Run Fire fighters, had to hike and use ATVs to reach the remote fire which needed several water drops from a helicopter to extinguish it.  The line that came down held 72 hundred volts and started the blaze around 12:15 Thursday.

COUNCIL CONSIDERS BENEFITS DURING TRANSITION

Williamsport’s City Council transit oversight committee is focused on making sure all the details for employees are taken care of before River Valley Transit becomes an authority beginning fiscal year July 1st. According to the Sun Gazette, members of Williamsport City Council will be checking on transfers of pension plans and health care benefits so that no employee or family member is left uncovered during a transition with claims that might occur during a gap period.  Officials say they may apply a similar formula to their existing pension plans that has been used in the City of Erie. 

PENNDOT WORKING NEXT WEEK ON I-80

Lane restrictions are coming for White Deer Township next week.  Watch for alternating lane closures on I-80 west in Union County Monday and Tuesday.  Crews will be on the scene milling and paving for a new structure at mile marker 207, west of the Route 15 interchange.  According to PennDOT, the paving project is part of a 3 million dollar bridge reconstruction and work is expected to be complete in June. 

LOCAL SCHOOLS GET GOOD MARKS

Several area High schools have earned a high ranking on a list released by US News and World Report about the Best High Schools in America.  Coming in in Pennsylvania’s top 100 are Loyalsock ranked at 81, Lewisburg at 67, Danville at 54 and Central Columbia at 47.  Rankings are based on methods for college readiness, reading and math proficiency, graduation rates and more.  Pennsylvania ranks 15th itself in the country with over 25 percent of the schools in the commonwealth  ranking  in the top quarter nationally.  PA’s number one school is Julia R. Masterman Secondary School in Philly which comes in at #10 in the country. 

BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS APRIL 28, 2022

AMAZON TO BRING JOBS TO LYCOMING COUNTY

There are plans to open an Amazon delivery station near Montgomery in Clinton Township which could bring up to 100 jobs to the area.  According to an announcement by Amazon, they plan to utilize the former warehouse building along Saegers Station Road.  A delivery station is where online ordered items are prepared for delivery, usually the last stop before a package gets to its destination.  The operation is set to start up in late spring or early summer. 

BUYER FOR FORMER COUNTRY CUPBOARD LOCATION

Members of the Baylor and Hamm families who owned the former Country Cupboard in Lewisburg have agreed to sell the property on the corner of Hafer Road and Route 15 to Evangelical Community Hospital.  According to the Sun Gazette, a press release from the Baylor Hamm companies said the property closing is scheduled for some time in May.  Administrators from Evangelical said they don’t have immediate plans for the property and that the Susquehanna River Valley Vistors Bureau will remain at the location at 81 Hafer Rd. for now. 

FORMER PA AG GETS DUI, VIOLATES PROBATION

A bench warrant has been issued for former Pennsylvania Attorney General Kathleen Kane who has been charged with DUI after an accident in Scranton in March.  According to WNEP, this allegedly violates Kane’s probation from her perjury conviction in 2016, for which she served 8 months in a Montgomery County prison.  After Kane is served the warrant a Montgomery County Judge could require her to complete her full 23 month sentence.  Kane, who resigned in 2016, was the first female and first Democrat to be elected Attorney General in Pennsylvania.

PENN COLLEGE CULINARY STUDENTS GO TO KENTUCKY

Student and alumni chefs will be heading to the Blue Grass State next month to cater the 148th running of the Kentucky Derby.  According to WNEP, some culinary arts program students have had the experience for several years since Penn College has been catering for the event for over 25 years.  During the first week of May, students will be prepping and preparing meals for 300 thousand people who will be at the Derby.  Each Student went through a grades review and interview process to qualify for the job.  The Derby itself is on May 7th

TWO ARRESTED FOR ENDANGERING CHILDREN

State Police say two small children were found wandering in their Beaver Springs neighborhood for more than an hour on April 12th without supervision and two people have been charged.  The 2 and 4 year old children were not hurt during the ordeal in Snyder County.  Police charged 35 year old Sarah Bowersox of Beaver Springs and 41 year old Carl Fornwalt of Middleburg with endangering the welfare of children. 

SUMMER FUN COULD BE READY BY MEMORIAL DAY

Williamsport Mayor, Derek Slaughter has gotten the word from Williamsport Public Works Department that work is on track for the planned improvements at Lose Park and Memorial Pool, so that the facilities may be open for Memorial Day weekend.  According to the Sun Gazette, contractors from Landserv Inc. received a positive recommendation from City Council for a splash pad at Shaw Park that will include filtration systems and a concrete slab.  A new liner for Memorial Pool and other improvements means it could open this summer after being shut down for COVID and a serious water leak that has now been resolved.

HOUSE PASSES BILL AIMED AT UNDER PERFORMING STUDENTS

Representative Clint Owlett sponsored a passing bill this week in the Pennsylvania House of Representatives that will help underperforming school age children in Pennsylvania a lifeline scholarship to choose an alternate school setting that would meet their individual academic needs.  According to a press release from the Pennsylvania GOP House News, the legislation allows the families of students who are in the bottom 15 percent of performance – based on state testing – to receive financial support to change to a school that suits their learning style better than a public school environment. The House favored the historic bill 104 to 93 and it goes to the Senate next for consideration.

DEADLINES FOR MAIL-IN VOTING

Those PA residents who want to utilize mail-in  voting for the May 17th Primary can visit their County Board of Elections office until May 10th  to apply for mail in or absentee voting or can even turn in completed ballots.  More than 734,000 Pennsylvanians have applied for a mail-in ballots and more than 76,000 Pennsylvanians have applied for an absentee ballot to vote in the primary.  The deadline to register to vote in Pennsylvania is May 2.  

SPORTS

PIAA District 4
Varsity Baseball

Wellsboro 20               Troy 6
Cowanesque Val. 9      Northeast Bradford 4
Sayre 11                       Canton 0
Muncy 12                     Northwest 1
PIAA District 4
Varsity Softball

Wellsboro 21               Troy 17

NBA

Bucks 116           Bulls 100 Milwaukee wins the series 4-1 in the East 1st Round
Warriors 102      Nuggets 98 Golden State wins 4-1 in the West 1st Round.
Tonight
76’rs leads the series 3-2 and is in Toronto at 7 PM, Phoenix is in New Orleans at 7:30 on TNT, Phoenix leads 3-2, and Dallas is it Utah at 10 PM on TNT, Dallas leads 3-2

MLB
Cardinals 10 Mets 5
Brewers 3 Pirates 1
Phillies 7 Rockies 3
Yankees 5 Orioles 2
Marlins 2 Nationals 1
Angels 9 Guardians 5

NHL
Jets 4 Flyers 0
Canadiens 4 Rangers 3
Blackhawks 4 Golden Knights 3
Coyotes 4 Stars 3
Kings 5 Kracken 3

BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS APRIL 27, 2022

FATHER CHARGED WITH ENDANGERING CHILD

The father of a 5 year old girl has been charged with endangering her welfare after he left her in the care of her mother at a hotel on Route 15 in South Williamsport while police say the mother was having a psychotic episode.  Police were called to the hotel when they found the woman arguing at the front desk in a flushed state with her child and a dog in their room, right before 44 year old Thomas Edward Foltz arrived and said the woman was his wife.  Police allege that Foltz was under the influence of a controlled substance.  Children and Youth took custody of the child since police said in an affidavit that neither parent were fit to take care of their daughter.  Foltz waived his preliminary hearing and is in prison in lieu of bail.

TRACTOR ACCIDENT SENDS ONE TO THE HOSPITAL

A farm tractor accident in Sunbury sent the driver to the hospital around 8pm Sunday night with unknown injuries.  According to Stonington State Police, 70 year old Scott L. Hummel was driving a tractor on Christmas Road in Lower Augusta Township while pulling a loaded trailer which went out of control.  Hummel was thrown from the seat of the tractor and transported to the hospital after first responders from Americus Ambulance arrived on the scene.

DEMOCRATS DEBATE OVER HOT TOPICS

The Democratic candidates running for Pennsylvania’s open US Senate seat participated in a debate Monday night, sharing their differences in opinion about government reforms, the state’s energy policy, universal Medicare, and suspending the federal gas tax.   According to PennLive US Rep, Conor Lamb, Lt Governor John Fetterman, State Rep. Malcolm Kenyatta and Jenkintown Councilwoman Alexandria Khalil participated.  This Senate seat in Pennsylvania seat is a hotly contested one – and in the GOP as well, since it could potentially define the majority of the senate in 2023.  The Primary Election in Pennsylvania is May 17, 2022.

LITTLE LEAGUE SET FOR TRADITIONAL SERIES THIS SUMMER

There are high hopes and big plans that Little League International will have all the traditional Little League World Series activities for their 75th anniversary celebration year, including all regional tournaments and seven series events with all the visitor opportunities available.  According to a press release by little league international, they remain cautious of any state or local COVID mandates but at this time plan for the Little League Baseball World series to be in Williamsport August 17 through 28th, with the Little League Softball world series in Greenville NC, August 9-15th

FATAL CAR AND TRUCK ACCIDENT

A 66 year old Northumberland County man died in an accident just outside of Sunbury, involving a car and a tractor trailer Monday.  According to State Police at Stonington, the victim in the crash was the driver of the car, Rodney Broscious of Sunbury, who witnesses say, pulled out in front of the truck at the intersection of Routes 890 and Route 61.  Police say the trucker was not injured in the crash that happened around 9am Monday.

MAN FACES DUI SENTENCE, RAPE CHARGES

The hearing of a man accused of felony DUI homicide by vehicle as well as a felony rape charge had his preliminary hearing rescheduled in Shamokin District Court for May.  According to the Daily Item, 25 year old Miquel Torres was free on unsecured bail last December when a woman they spoke to accused him of the sexual assault.  Torres pled guilty last fall and has yet to be sentenced for a January 2020 DUI accident at Mulberry and Market Streets that killed 66 year old Sharon Adams of Shamokin. He remains incarcerated in lieu of 100 thousand dollars cash bail.

COVID TESTING SITE MOVING TO BELLEFONTE

The free State Department of Health COVID testing site that has been on Transfer Road in State College this year will move to a new location in Bellefonte starting this Friday.  According to the Centre Daily times the testing site at 219 Water Street – the former Subway –  is open to everyone, regardless of age or residency 10 a.m.-7 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday.  ID is required.  The site will remain open at that location until September. 

NATIVE LEWISBURG AUTHOR LOCAL BOOK SIGNING

A native Lewisburg author and her new book inspired by her Susquehanna valley upbringing will be featured  at Barnes & Noble in Lewisburg during Arts Festival weekend this Friday evening at 6.  According to the Daily Item, Wendy Rich Stetson, who graduated from Lewisburg High School will sign copies and read from her book “Hometown” which the author says is a small-town Amish romance with a 21st-century vibe.  Stetson said characters and place names in the book celebrate and reflect people and places in her life. 

SPORTS

P I-AA District 4 Varsity baseball
Central Columbia 2 Loyalsock 1
Varsity Softball

Central Mountain 11 Shikellamy 2
NBA
Heat 97 hawks 94 Miami wins the series 4-1
Grizzlies 111 Timberwolves 109 Memphis leads 3-2
Suns 112 Pelicans 97 Phoenix leading 3-2
NBA tonight Game 5 between Chicago and Milwaukee @ 7:30 Milwaukee leads the series 3-1
Denver at Golden State @ 10 Golden State leads the series 3-1.

MLB

Brewers 12 pirates 8
Phillies 10 Rockies 3
Yankees 12 Orioles 8
Marlins 5 Nationals 2
Mets 3 Cardinals 0
Angels 4 Guardians 1
Bluejay 6 Red Sox 5
Braves 3 Cubs 1
NHL
Bruins 4 Panthers 2
Senators 5 Devils 4
Lightning 4 Blue Jackets 1
Hurricanes 4 Rangers 3
Oilers 5 Penguins 1
Islanders 4 Capitals 1
Maple leafs 3 Red Wings 0
Flames 5 Predators 4
Coyotes 5 Wild 3
Stars 3 Golden Knights 2
Avalanche 5 Blues 3
Canucks 5 Kraken 2
Ducks 5 Sharks 2

BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS APRIL 26, 2022

DOMESTIC DISTURBANCE LEADS TO WOMAN’S ARREST

Police arrested a Williamsport woman after police answered a domestic disturbance call Saturday night on Trenton Avenue.  According to the Sun Gazette, 40 year old Ashley Barnfield was questioned and then detained by city police as she allegedly was drunk and started yelling at the officers.  Later when another officer assisted, an affidavit says Barnfield kicked the second officer before she was arrested and again at police headquarters.  She was arraigned on charges of public drunkenness, disorderly conduct and assault, and is in Lycoming County Prison in lieu of 15 thousand dollars bail.

POLICE INCIDENT RECORDED BY SUSPECT ON FACEBOOK

Police arrested a Hazelton woman in Mount Carmel who was livestreaming the arrest and pror incidents on Facebook.  According to North Central PA dot com, BobbiJo Lopez was originally stopped by police for impeding traffic as she recorded herself walking around outside her vehicle at a red light with her phone.  When police stopped Lopez and tried to give her a ticket, she threw her phone and sped away, starting a chase in which she drove in the wrong lane of traffic, sometimes at high speeds until finally arriving at a West Third Street residence where police took her into custody.  Police found methamphetamine at the home and charged her with possession of drug paraphernalia in addition to the felonies for fleeing police and resisting arrest.  Lopez was arraigned and posted 25 hundred dollars unsecured bail.

AVIAN FLU STAYING IN SOUTHERN PA FOR NOW

Lancaster County, Pennsylvania has been struggling with outbreaks of avian flu, but according to the Daily item, there are no cases that have spread as of yet to the Valley. Official reports say there are about 10,360 poultry operations statewide. Department of Agricutlture Secretary Russel Redding says the state has had $2 million set aside since 2016 to respond to avian influenza.  If you raise chickens and have concerns about Avian Flu, call the Pennsylvania Bureau of Animal Health and Diagnostic Services at 717-772-2852. 

FARMER’S MARKET SET TO START

Williamsport Growers Market Peak Season marker is set to start up Saturday morning.  Officials from the market say that customers will be able to purchase affordable healthy food using cash as well as the token system using debit or SNAP Cards.  A person can use their card to purchase $1 to $20 tokens that each vendor at the market will accept.  The Growers Market runs Saturdays April 30th through November each Saturday from 8am til noon during peak season at 249 Little League Blvd.

WILLIAMSPORT BROTHERS DISPLACED BY FIRE

The Red Cross is assisting two brothers who were displaced by fire yesterday.  According to the Sun Gazette, a fire started in the bedroom of a two-unit apartment at 917 Washington Boulevard around 3am.  Williamsport firefighters responded to the early morning incident and found that the two occupants had safely escaped the apartment. No one was injured.  It took a few minutes to extinguish the fire and officials say the cause is under investigation. 

TURKEY HILL ICE CREAM RECALL

If you bought Turkey Hill Chocolate Marshmallow Premium ice cream lately and have a peanut allergy, check it before you eat it!  It’s been recalled.  According to a press release from Turkey Hill Dairy of Conestoga, PA, the recall applies to 385, 48 ounce containers of the chocolate marshmallow premium ice cream bought between April 14th and 19th that may have been filled with chocolate peanut butter cup ice cream instead.  The dairy has not received any complaints of illness at this time and says the recall doesn’t apply to any other product.  The UPC Code of the product is 020735420935.  If you purchased any of the product, you can return it to the store for a full refund or call 1800 MY DAIRY.

BOOSTER SHOT CLINIC ON THE WAY

If you are eligible and interested in getting a Moderna COVID-19 vaccine booster shot, Geisinger is hosting four clinic days at the Hughes Center in Danville; April 27-28 (tomorrow and Thursday) and May 4th and 5th. Those over 50 and who are immunocompromised benefit from the extra dose, avoiding severe disease, according to data from the CDC. Ask your doctor if you qualify for the booster.  Geisinger retail pharmacies are taking appointments through online scheduling or at 570-284-3657.

BRIDGE TO BE NAMED FOR WWII VETERAN

A World War II veteran who passed away in April of 2020 will have a Pine Creek Township bridge named for him next month.  According to the Record Online, the 76th District State representative, Stephanie Borowicz announced a dedication and unveiling ceremony will take place Tuesday May 3rd at 10 am next to the bridge on State Route 1010 over Chatham Run to honor the late Tech Corporal Lee R. Phillips.  Phillips was a Howard native and graduated from Lock Haven High School in 1944 before he was drafted and assigned to 3rd Army, Company A, 787th battalion where he drove tanks under General Patton. 

BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS APRIL 25, 2022

HIGH SPEED CHASE LEADS TO JAIL FOR MOTORCYCLIST

A high speed chase between a motorcyclist and state troopers last Monday that started at the Lycoming Mall Interchange and went to the Northumberland county line landed the motorcyclist in jail.  Police say 35 year old Milton C. Frost III, most recently from Canton, got up to around 95 miles per hour during the chase on a bike on I-180 East just after noon on April 18th .  Police determined the bike had been stolen in Broome County, New York, and report Frost knew the VIN was compromised.  Frost was charged with fleeing police and receiving stolen property.  He is in Lycoming County Prison in lieu of 40 thousand dollars bail.

EMPLOYER INCARCERATED FOR TAX EVASION

A man from State College who owned a medical Billing Company and didn’t pay employment taxes was sentenced to 15 months in jail and restitution last week in District Court.  The Sun Gazette reported that 44 year old Scott Lykens had pled guilty last December for failure to pay tax withholdings, like Medicare and Social Security that he collected from his employees from 2010 til 2019. Lykens has been ordered by Chief District Court Judge Matthew W. Brann to pay the IRS the total tax loss of just about 1.5 million dollars.

PHILLY MAN SENTENCED TO 8+ YEARS FOR DRUG CONSPIRACY

A former Williamsport resident from Philadelphia who pled guilty to conspiracy to distribute the dangerous drugs fentanyl and Tramadol has been sentenced to over 8 years in federal prison plus 3-years of probation.  The Sun Gazette reports that 33 year old Ira Sims was charged with eight others  in August of 2020 for their role in a drug conspiracy around Williamsport in 2019.  There was an 11-count indictment brought against the defendants.  According to Court records, Sims was in jail on a prior offense during some of the time police were investigating the drug conspiracy.

K-9 GETS DONATED VEST

Williamsport Bureau of Police K-9, Tacoma, has received a gift of life-saving body armor which is bullet and stab protective, as a charitable donation from the non-profit “Vested Interest in K9s, Inc”, after a fundraiser was held by Williamsport West Veterinary Hospital in Duboistown.  According to Crimewatchpa.com Tacoma’s custom fitted vest has a value of over two thousand dollars and will be delivered in eight to ten weeks.  Vested Interest in K9s, Inc. provides information, lists events, accepts donations and has volunteer information at www.vik9s.org.

SHOOTING IN JACKSON TOWNSHIP

State police have not released any more information about a shooting that occurred at a Jackson township home near Herndon in Northumberland County.  Emergency communications between first responders indicated that a victim had a gunshot wound to the throat and was having difficulty breathing around 3pm Friday.  After two hours following the original call, the Northumberland County Coroner was on the scene and later, the Pennsylvania State Police Forensics Unit was called in.  State Police in Stonington are handling the investigation and at this time report the incident they are investigating as an accident. 

FATAL ACCIDENT IN WALKER TOWNSHIP

A woman from Bellefonte died in a two car accident Friday afternoon along Route 64.  According to the Record Online, 47 year old Sherry Thompson’s car struck a vehicle driven by 54 year old James Ashpole who had slowed down on Route 64 to take a left turn onto Snydertown Road.  According to Rockview State police, Thompson was not wearing a seatbelt and was taken by life flight to UPMC Williamsport.  Hospital officials report that that coroner pronounced Thomspon deceased upon arrival to the facility.  Ashpole was not injured in the Walker Township crash, he had been wearing a seatbelt.

WILLIAMSPORT RESURFACING PROJECT CONTINUES THIS WEEK

PennDOT says overnight work will continue this week on the pedestrian access ramps along West Third and Market Streets which is part of the 2.5 mile resurfacing project that continues along West Fourth and Campbell, Market Street, Hepburn Street and Ridge Avenue.  There will be resurfacing starting up again today on West Fourth and Campbell which will include milling the existing roadway, base repairs and ramp construction.  Motorists are asked to watch for changing traffic patterns.  The $2 million resurfacing project is set to be completed this August. 

GOFUNDME SET UP FOR VICTIM IN DOMESTIC PENN TWP SHOOTING

A GoFundMe page has been set up for the woman allegedly shot by her husband last week in Penn Township.  According to the Daily item, friends of Leslie Bailor said that she was a devoted mother to four children and several dogs and had been estranged from her husband, Brad Bailor, since last January.  Brad Bailor is being held without bail for the shooting that occurred last Monday when Leslie was at the home for a moment caring for her dogs.  Their children ages 3, 5, 7 and 10 were not at home at the time.  Bailor told police that he had slapped his wife in the face and shot her when he thought she was calling the police.  He is in Snyder County prison on homicide charges.

FORMER SUNBURY MAYOR PASSES

A former mayor of Sunbury has passed.  Donald Morgan, who also owned the Edison Hotel, was mayor for three terms starting in 1972 and served another term in 1984, originally as a Democrat, but finally as a Republican.   According to media outlets, Morgan graduated from Hegins Township High School, George Washington University, and then was a full Lieutenant in the US Navy.  He was 90 years old.

SPORTS

NBA
Milwaukee leads the series 3-1 after Game 4 in the East 1st Round yesterday
Bucks 119           Bulls 95
In the West 1st   Round Games
Nuggets 126       Warriors 121 Golden State leading 3-1
Heat 110             Hawks 86 Miami leads the series 31
Pelicans 118       Suns 103 Their series tied up 2-2 in the West first round

NASCAR
Ross Chastain got a victory at Talladega Superspeedway with his 2nd cup win in the past five races.
2. Austin Dillon
3. Kyle Busch
4. Kyle Larson
5. Martin Truex Jr., rounded out the top five.

MLB
 
Yankees 10         Guardians 2
Giants 12            Nationals 3
Pirates 4              Cubs 3
Angels 7              Orioles 6
Mets 6                 Diamondbacks 2
Brewers 1            Phillies 0

BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS APRIL 22, 2022

DEPLORABLE CONDITIONS IN COGAN STATION HOME

A Cogan Station couple has been arrested after narcotics detectives executed a search warrant and found deplorable living conditions in a home with 5 young children on April 14th.  According to a press release by the Old Lycoming Police Department, police investigating drug offenses found 34 year old Jeffery Howlett and 29 year old Lindy Beck both of Beech Street, to have dangerous drug paraphernalia, exposed wires, and food and animal waste scattered throughout the home.  Police then obtained a second warrant, charging the couple with felony endangerment of children.  Both Howlett and Beck faced District Magistrate Judge William Solomon and were committed to Lycoming County Prison in lieu of 75 thousand dollars bail each.  The children were placed with relatives.

SUNBURY DRUG SWEEP NETS 30 SUSPECTS

After several controlled drug buys by police earlier this week in Sunbury, police conducted a drug sweep and outstanding warrant search which netted the arrest of 30 people in the city.  According to The Daily Item, Sunbury Police said they had assistance from other Valley departments and together seized guns and over 300 grams of drugs like methamphetamine, cocaine, spice and other drugs.  Sunbury District Judge Mike Toomey worked in conjunction with police to reserve a full day in his court to clean up the warrant list they had to tackle.  The city has more sweeps planned for the future.

LOCAL HOSPITAL RECEIVES FEDERAL GRANTS

Evangelical Community Hospital is one of six hospitals in Pennsylvania to receive almost 490 thousand dollars in an Emergency Rural Health Care Grant from the USDA through the American Rescue Plan act, funding made available through historic legislation by the Biden Harris Administration.  According to The Express, Evangelical will use the grant to support their Advanced Life Support Unit and other ancillary equipment for in and outpatients.  The five other recipients of the 3.9 million dollar grant include the Clinton County Department of Emergency Services, Lock Haven Emergency Medical Services, Centre Care, Inc, Citizens Hose Company and Broad Acres Nursing Home in Tioga County. 

CROSSCUTTERS LOOKING FOR ANTHEM SINGERS

The Williamsport Crosscutters are seeking National Anthem singers for the upcoming 2022 season.  Those interested in applying, can email a link or audio file of themselves performing the traditional rendition of the song, a Capella.  Submissions along with a short application, are due by May 13th, the song should be 90 seconds or less in length and will be reviewed following the deadline.  Those chosen will be contacted for performances coming up on opening night with the State College Spikes June 2 through the end of the season, September 1st.  

MAN SHOOTS UP HOUSE OVER DEATH OF PET

A man who was reacting to the family’s dogs killing his pet bird, opened fire in the basement of his Jackson Township home on April 16th around 9:30am, which prompted the other occupant of the home to call police.   According to the Sun Gazette, Nicholas Jennings, who lives on Blockhouse Rd. with his sister and her two children, fired rounds in the basement and then more rounds outside the house after learning about the death of his pet, which caused about 1000 dollars-worth of damage.  When police arrived, Jennings was taken into custody and charged with 1 felony count of discharging a firearm into an occupied structure and other misdemeanors for reckless endangerment.  He is in Lycoming County Prison in lieu of bail.

FIRE DESTROYS MILL HALL GARAGE AND CONTENTS

A Mill Hall man suffered the loss of two Mustangs, several motorcycles and yard equipment after a fire began in his three bay concrete block garage just off Fishing Creek last night.  According to the Record Online, property owner Tim Yost guessed that an electrical cord could have started the blaze, but a State Police Fire Marshal will be called to the scene today to determine the origin of the fire.  Firefighters from Mill Hall, Lock Haven, Flemington and Lamar Township were on the scene and had the fire knocked down in about 20 minutes.  Smoke was reportedly seen from as far away as Lock Haven.

UNITYVILLE MAN ARRESTED FOR SEXUAL CONTACT WITH MINOR

A former Unityville man accused of molesting a female minor  in Franklin Township has been jailed in Lycoming County.  According to the Sun Gazette, 42 year old Ronald P Wert was accused of multiple indecent assault charges, including felony count of unlawful contact with a minor.  The incidents happened between November of 2021 and March 2022.  Wert had recently moved to a Unityville campground from Fairview Road, but is now incarcerated in lieu of 95 thousand dollars bail. 

BENEFIT CONCERT FOR UKRAINE

Susquehanna University is hosting a benefit concert for Ukraine Saturday April 30th at 7:30pm.  According to a press release from the university, local musicians will gather in Stretansky Concert Hall in the Cunningham Center for Music and Art under the direction of Jordan Smith visiting assistant professor of music.  A collection will be taken to help the organization supporting refugees, Lutheran Immigration and Refugee Service.  Music performed will include the Ukrainian National Anthem, Prayer for Ukraine by Lysenko and The Great Gate of Kiev by Mussgorsky.  Find more details here.

SPORTS

PIAA District 4

Varsity Baseball
Hughesville 2                 Midd-west 1
Wyalusing 5                   Cowanesque Valley 2
Athens 8                        Williamson 2
Lewisburg 6                   South Williamsport 1
Northeast Bradford 6    Towanda 3
Sayre 11                        Wellsboro 1

Varsity Softball
NE Bradford 10             Towanda 0
Cowanesque Valley 4 Wyalusing 3
Wellsboro 18                 Sayre 2
Lewisburg 4                   Montoursville 3
Shikellamy 15                Milton 5
Shamokin 3                   Midd-west 2
Athens 13                      Williamson 3
Montgomery 13             Sullivan County 2
Bloomsburg 14              Central Columbia 4
Central Mt 11                Selinsgrove 0
St John Neumann 15     CMVT 14
Williamsport & Danville and Muncy & Benton didn’t play

NBA

Game 3 of the West 1st Round
Grizzlies 104        Timberwolves  95 – Memphis leads 2-1
Mavericks 126     Jazz 118  Dallas leads that 2-1
Warriors 118        Nuggets 113 Golden State is 3-0
Tonight
Game 3 of the East 1st Round has the Heat and the Hawks @7 on ESPN,  Bucks & Bulls @8:30 on ABC, and Suns & Pelicans @930 on ESPN


MLB

Guardians 6 White Sox 3
Tigers 3 Yankees 0
Mets  6 Giants 2
A’s 6 Orioles 4
Diamondbacks 4 Nationals 3
Pirates 4 Cubs 3

NHL

Flyers 6 Canadiens 3
Panthers 5 Redwings 2
Sabers 5 Devils 2
Penguins 4 Bruins 0
Hurricanes 4 Jets 2
Rangers 6 Islanders 3
Lightning 8 Maple leafs 1
Wild 6 Canucks 3
Flames 4 Stars 2
Kings 4 Blackhawks 1
Blues 3 Sharks 1

NASCAR this Sunday @3pm Geico 500 in Talladega, Alabama
Listen on our sister station WWPA, the Twin Valley’s Talk Radio Network or WILQ’s HD3

BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS APRIL 21, 2022

PENN DOT:  LYCOMING COUNTY ROADS ARE OPEN

PennDOT reports that the closures on Jacks Hollow Road and Route 554 between Market street to Elimsport Road in Washington Township have reopened and trees have been removed from the roadway.  The heavy wet snow that fell early Tuesday, brought trees down on power lines and caused lots of electrical and traffic issues.  In Sullivan County, Route 154 between Route 220 in Laporte and Worlds End Road, opened this morning. 

MUNCY MAN POINTS GUN AT ANOTHER

A Muncy man is free on $25,000 bail after he was charged with reckless endangerment, simple assault and pointing a handgun at a man who was parked on his property last Saturday afternoon.  According to the Sun Gazette,   62 year old Carl Schultz of Linvic Road, approached a person parked on the side of the road in a van, who police say was unaware the area was private, and had a verbal confrontation.  As the victim attempted to leave the property, Schultz went to his truck, got a handgun and pointed it at the man. He fled to a nearby business to call police.  Troopers searched a garage following the incident at 5058 Route 220, where they found Schultz and the suspected weapon.  Police then took him into custody. 

MAN WHO FLED POLICE IN SHAMOKIN CHARGED

Charges are pending for a Coal Township man who fled from police in Shamokin last month.  According to police reports, 21 year old Shane Frizell attempted to flee from Shamokin City Police March 26th and was allegedly driving without lights to avoid identification or arrest.  Police say that Frizell lost control of the car as he was trying to turn from Route 61 to Route 487, where he hit concrete lane dividers and rolled his vehicle.  The man ran from police after the accident but was caught.  Frizell was hospitalized at Geisinger medical Center for some minor injuries.  An investigation is ongoing.

INDIVIDUAL SPORTS REMAIN AT INTEGRATED PA UNIVERSITY CAMPUSES

Even though the campuses of Mansfield, Bloomsburg , Lock Haven, California, Clarion and Edinboro are integrating, the NCAA Division II Membership Committee has approved individual athletic programs will remain on each individual campus.  According to a press release, the full complement of athletic programs at each school will continue to use their current branding and stay wholly independent of each other.  Lock Haven has Division I  Men’s wrestling as a member of MAC, a good field hockey program and 19 other varsity athletic programs there.  Mansfield University features Collegiate Sprint Football with 13 varsity programs on campus.  California, Clarion, and Edinboro universities are uniting as Pennsylvania Western University (PennWest) with intercollegiate sports on each campus.

SELINSGROVE MAN IN CUSTODY FOR MURDER

A suspect in the fatal shooting that occurred at a South Market Street home in Selinsgrove Monday has been arrested.  According to the Daily Item, the Snyder County DA said State police in Selinsgrove took the property owner, 33 year old, Brad A. Bailor into custody, to be arraigned for allegedly killing his wife Leslie M Bailor.  Witnesses say there was yelling and a police commotion around 1:30 Monday on South Market Street in Penn Township, when a man emerged from the home with a gun over his head which he then dropped.  Police entered the home and Bailor was arrested.  He is in custody at the Snyder County Prison without bail for criminal homicide and first degree murder.  Bailor’s preliminary hearing is April 28th in Middleburg.

UNSEALED RECORDS SHOW WOMEN SOUGHT TO SELL DAUGHTER

Information has been unsealed in the case of two Lycoming County women who are accused of intentionally starving their two small children in Old Lycoming Township, and has been revealed that a relative said they sought to sell one of the daughters for $1000 a few days before both girls were found in a shallow grave in Hepburn Township after dying from starvation in the Livermore Road home.  The mother, Marie Sue Snyder and Echo Butler confessed to the killing.  According to Penn Live, Echo Butler’s Aunt told Old Lycoming Township police information she knew Echo Butler talked about selling 6 year old Nicole Elisabeth.  District Attorney Ryan C. Gardner confirmed information about the sale.

POLICE DISCOVER WMD DURING TRAFFIC STOP

Police stopped a Lock Haven man who was driving an RV with the wrong license plate and discovered  him to have an extensive criminal record  which has been was bound over on all charges after his arrest in Flemmington.  According to the Daily Record 35 year old James Schmidtberg had a previous criminal record that at minimum kept him from owning a firearm in Pennsylvania.  However, after obtaining a search warrant police found 6 firearms, ammunition, magazines and other weapons and accessories as well as a weapon of mass destruction all in the RV on March 2nd,  Schmidtberg is in custody in Clinton County.  Bail is set at 250 thousand dollars.

ORDINANCE PENDING FOR RESIDENTS TO PAY STORM WATER FEE

Lock Haven City Council voted to propose an annual 100 hundred dollar ERU fee that is the first step to having an ordinance in which local users will assist with financing the future maintenance and upgrades to the local  stormwater system.  According to the Record online, Council will need to construct the ordinance, present the proposal to City Council for consideration, advertise the plan, and hold a public hearing all before adopting the ordinance and implementing it.  City Manager Greg Wilson envisions the fee to be billed quarterly.  Projects and upgrades planned for the next 30 years are estimated to potentially cost 1.1 million dollars per year, funding will also come from the city’s general fund.   A survey to learn more and provide feedback is available HERE.

SPORTS
P I-AA District 4
Varsity Baseball

Williamsport 9               Wyoming seminary 0
Danville 8                       South Williamsport 7
Muncy 7                        CMVT 2
Millville 10                              Saint John Neumann 8
Canton 12                      Towanda  2
Selinsgrove 5                 Montoursville 4
Loyalsock 7                   Mount Carmel 1
Cowanesque Valley 4    North Penn Mansfield 2
Warrior Run 9               Bloomsburg 6
Mifflinburg 11               Shamokin 1
Sullivan County 15        Bucktail 2
Central Columbia 16     Southern Columbia 2
Sayre 7                          Athens 1
Midd-West 18                Milton 3
 PIAA District 4
Varsity Softball
South Williamsport 12 Wellsboro 2
Lewisburg 3                   Loyalsock 1
Central Mountain 7       Midd-West 1
Northwest 15                 Sugar Valley Rural Charter 0
Jersey Shore 10             Mifflinburg 3
Athens 15                      Sayre 2
Canton 16                      Towanda 2
Montoursville 3             Warrior Run 2
North Penn liberty 4      Cowanesque  Valley 1
PIAA District 4
Boys Tennis

South Williamsport over Bloomsburg 4-1
Lewisburg defeated Danville 5-0
Hughesville over Loyalsock 5-0
Central Columbia bit Milton 5-0
Mifflinburg defeated Jersey Shore 4-1

NBA
76ers  104   Raptors 101
Celtics 114 Nets 107
Bulls 114    Bucks 110
NBA Basketball tonight
West first round continues- Game 3 for Grizzlies and the Timberwolves, Mavericks and Jazz and Warriors and Nuggets play at 10pm

MLB
Brewers 4             Pirates 2
Game 1 – Guardians 11 White Sox 1
Game 2  – Guardians 2 White Sox 1
Phillies 9               Rockies 6
Orioles 1               A’s 0
Yankees 5             Detroit Tigers 3
Diamondbacks 11 Nationals 2
Giants 5               Mets 2
NHL
Oilers 5                Stars 2
Blackhawks 4       Coyotes 3
Golden Knights 4   Capitals 3
Kraken 3              Avalanche 2

BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS APRIL 20, 2022

POWER BEING RESTORED, SOME ROADS STILL CLOSED

PPL’s outage map looks a lot less dramatic today with just a few outages remaining in Lycoming County after yesterday’s heavy spring snow brought trees down on some power lines.  PennDOT has reported there are still some trees down and work continues today, with closures on Jacks Hollow Road between Bennardi Development Road in Armstrong Township and Woodside Avenue in Duboistown, Route 554 to Elimsport Road is also still closed today.  In Picture Rocks, Route 864 in Wolf Township and Court Street opened up around 7:30 pm last night. 

TRUCKER COMPETENT TO STAND TRIAL

A psychological evaluation of the man who is accused of killing a New York City Model has been completed and he has been found competent to stand trial.  Tracy Ray Rollins, Jr. allegedly killed 47 year old Rebecca Landrith in February 2021, and left her body at an Interstate 80 exit near Loganton.  He faces homicide and abuse of a corpse charges.  A note in Landrith’s pocket led investigators to Rollins, who was apprehended at a truck stop in Connecticut, a few days after police discovered the woman’s body on the road.  Rollins is being held without bail.

BLOOMSBURG COUNCIL VOTES TO EUTHANIZE GEESE

Through a program with the US Department of Agriculture, the Bloomsburg Town Council has voted to euthanize nearly 40 adult geese this summer and send the birds to food banks in Pennsylvania – a state with a program in place to process and distribute wild geese. According to WNEP, Mayor Justin Hummel said some birds will be trapped and moved from Bloomsburg Town park where the permanent resident geese are causing a mess, each bird potentiallycreating 2 pound of goose poop per day.  The USDA’s goose removal project has assisted New York City airport officials with goose removal and can help municipalities and other private landowners locally.

DANVILLE WOMAN HIRED FOR LITTLE LEAGUE PROJECT ANALYST

A woman from Danville has been named Business Analyst and Project Manager within the Information Technology Department for Little League International in Williamsport.  According to a release from Andy Frederick, Little League Senior Director of  IT, Autumn Llewellyn, who holds an MBA from Misericordia University and has more than a decade of experience at Geisinger Health System, will join the IT department to evaluate and schedule project requests and strengthen their technology services to local leagues overall. Llewellyn’s new role with Little League International began yesterday. 

CENTRE COUNTY CRASH KILLS ONE

There was a crash between a vehicle and an UTV that killed a 28 year old woman from Mingoville yesterday.  According to StateCollege dot com,  Anjelica Meile was driving with a passenger in a Jeep Grand Cherokee on Nittany Valley Drive when an 85 year old man from Bellfonte on a UTV crossed in front of her car from a side road in Walker Township and collided with her car.   State police at Rockview, say Meile was ejected from the vehicle when she swerved and hit a ditch on the side of the road which caused her Jeep to flip multiple times in a field.  She was pronounced dead at the scene.  The driver of the UTV and the passenger in the Jeep were transported to the hospital for minor injuries.  State police are investigating. 

FATAL SNYDER COUNTY CRASH

There was a Snyder County car accident that took the life of a 19 year-old Mt Pleasant Mills man early Sunday.  According to State Police, Daryl Z. Brubaker was killed when he failed to negotiate his 2001 Ford Explorer through a left hand turn on Troup Valley Road and overcorrected, losing control and overturning around 7am Sunday. Police say Brubaker was ejected from the vehicle and was pronounced dead at the scene in Perry Township.

FIRE IN DANVILLE

There was a fire around 12pm at Strong Industries in Danville yesterday after construction crews using a torch caught materials and an inside wall on fire, while working to join an old section of the building to a new one.  According to North Central Pa dot com, Firefighters arrived to flames coming through the roof at the warehouse on Industrial Court, but managed to save much of the hot tub manufacturing parts that were threatened by the fire.  Danville Fire Chief John Bruckenburger  said they had the fire out quickly and it was a good save.

NEW HEALTH SECRETARY NAMED IN PENNSYLVANIA

Pennsylvania’s acting Health Secretary Keara Klinepeter is stepping down April 22nd after three months on the job, and Governor Tom Wolf has announced her replacement.  According to a press release, Physician General Dr. Denise Johnson will be PA’s next top Health Official.  Acting Health Secretary Alison Beam, who took the post after Dr. Rachel Levine was selected to serve in President Biden’s administration, was replaced by Klinepeter in January.  Johnson previously worked as Meadville Medical Center’s chief medical officer and was Pennsylvania’s interim Physician General for a time.

WILLIAMSPORT’S TREASURER TO STEP DOWN

Williamsport City’s treasurer and tax collector, Nicholas Grimes, has given notice of his resignation.  According to the Sun Gazette, he will work until May 1st.  Grimes submitted a letter of resignation to Council President Adam Yoder stating that he felt good about the growth he has accomplished in the department.  City Council will accept applications for Grimes’ position through Monday April 25th, and if qualified and background checked, they will be interviewed and approved that week in a special meeting, and could fulfill the position for the remainder of the term.

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