BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS APRIL 19, 2022

HEAVY SNOW, TREES DOWN, POWER OUT

There were utility outages across out region this morning with approximately 12,000 PP&L customers without power.  Penn DOT is reporting closures of main roadways in Lycoming County;  Route 864 between Rt 87 and Simpler Hollow Road in Upper Fairfield Township, Jacks Hollow Road between Bennardi Development Road in Armstrong and Woodside Avenue in Duboistown.  Warrensville Road is shut down between Four Mile Drive and Barneys Drive in Loyalsock.  Route 287 has been closed in both directions since early this morning, between Rt 973 and Beech Grove Road.  Rt 554 between Market Street and Elimsport Road in Washington Township was also closed from trees and power lines down from the heavy snowfall.

TREVORTON WOMAN DIES FROM INJURIES

A woman from Trevorton died at Hershey Medical Center after sustaining serious injuries in a one car accident that happened near Harrisburg on April 3rd.  According to The Daily Item, 35 year old Mahogany Marie Peters was the passenger in a car driven by 40 year old Richard Ditzler of Middletown, when he lost control of the car after a deer ran out in front of him on a Dauphin County road.  The 2009 Ford Escape went out of control, hit a stump and flipped, coming to rest on its’ roof.  Both occupants were transported to the hospital from the scene.  Peters had been wearing a seatbelt, but succumbed to her injuries last Wednesday.  Ditzler was not wearing a seatbelt and sustained moderate injuries. 

FATAL SHOOTING IN SELINSGROVE

Authorities say they have taken one man into custody after a fatal shooting occurred in Selinsgrove yesterday afternoon.  According to a press release from the Pennsylvania State police in Selinsgrove, at least one person was discovered deceased after troopers were called to a home in the 11-hundred block of South Market Street after noon yesterday.  Police say there is no threat to the public at this time, an no further details were released.

RESIDENTS CAN CHIME IN ON PADDLE BOAT ADDITION

The Borough of Northumberland is giving the public an opportunity to voice their opinion about adding a 149-passenger paddleboat at the Sea Scout Dock Area in Pineknotter Park.  You are invited to a meeting at the Northumberland Borough Hall May 9th at 7pm to discuss a proposal from the Central Susquehanna Riverboat Society to bring the 92 foot long Mark Twain, operated by Pinacle Marine Corporation to the County.  Officials want residents to voice any concerns before the decision on whether to add the paddle boat, is voted upon. 

REPUBLICAN PRIMARY DEBATE TONIGHT

There will be a 90 minute debate between 5 candidates who are running for the Republican nomination for the state’s gubernatorial primary.  According to the Daily Item, Spotlight PA will host the debate at Gettysburg College, and it will not be open to the public, but it will be freely available on YouTube and Facebook Live at 7pm tonight.  Five of nine candidate will participate, Jake Corman, Joe Gale, Charlie Gerow, Melissa Hart and Nche Zama and Scott LaMar will moderate. 

EARTH DAY CLEAN UPS FOR VOLUNTEERS IN THE REGION

There are clean up days scheduled in our area for Earth Day 2022 and the Susquehanna Greenway Partnership is looking for volunteers in Lock haven, Williamsport, Selinsgrove, Bloomsburg, Newberry, Montgomery, Sunbury, Athens, and Sayre.  SGP can help groups plan cleanup days and provide clean up materials like bags gloves and vests.  To get involved,  online susquehannagreenway.org.

KEYSTONE CENTRAL SCHOOL BOARD MEMBER RESIGNS

Randy Strouse, who has served Region VI within the Keystone Central School Board as vice-president since 2019, submitted his resignation and it was approved at last week’s meeting.  According to the Daily Item, during a voting session of the school board, some members thanked Strouse for his service to the board and some mentioned their respect for him.  Strouse represented Allison Township and Lock Haven’s 2nd and 3rd Wards.  A special meeting will be scheduled to interview candidates and appoint a replacement within 30 days.  The Keystone Central school board will have a meeting open to the public at 6:30 p.m. on Thursday, May 5.

BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS APRIL 18, 2022

BODY FOUND ON SU CAMPUS

There was a body found near the perimeter of the campus of Susquehanna University on April 9th and State Police are investigating.  According to North Central PA dot com, the Snyder County Coroner has determined that the person found took their own life.  University officials say there is no information that points to the individual found having any ties to the local college community.  Police did not release the name of the deceased person.

TWO OF EIGHT CHARGES AGAINST LOYALSOCK DROPPED

Chief Judge Matthew Brann dismissed two of the eight counts of allegations in federal court, that stated Loyalsock High School knew a person accused of being a sexual predator was employed by the district before 2018.  According to North Central PA dot com, a middle school basketball coach later pleaded guilty to third degree sexual contact with a student and first degree corruption of a minor after some victims at the school reported the abuse.  In this case, Brann’s dismissal refers to the liability and intentional infliction of emotional distress, but other charges like negligence and Title IX violations will stay in the lawsuit against Loyalsock Township School District. 

DEBRIS CLEANING IN SUNBURY

Penn Dot has announced that beginning on Monday they will be doing debris clearing on the veterans memorial bridge in Sunbury.  The work will last approximately one week, weather permitting.  There will be lane restrictions in place during the project along Route 61 that will see the right driving lane restricted in the northbound direction.  The restriction will be in place each day from 9am – 3pm.

TIME TO BUY REUSABLE BAGS

A company policy by Wegmans to eliminate plastic bags by the end of 2022 is about to effect local stores. The grocery chain hopes to continue their environmental successes in the Commonwealth since officials estimate about 345 million single use bags have been kept out of circulation since their elimination policy has been in place in other states.  Paper bags will be available for a 5 cent charge per bag, and the money raised goes to the store’s local food bank and the United Way.  According to North Central PA dot com, Wegmans donated 1.7 million dollars of the paper bag fees in 2021.

MILL HALL MAN JAILED FOR NOT COMPLYING WITH MEGAN’S LAW

A Mill Hall man who is required to register as a sex offender has been jailed after he didn’t update his address under Megan’s Law.  According to North Central PA dot com, State Police in Lamar say 48 year old Sylvester Leroy  Young, who is a Tier 3 offender and stays on the registry for life, was charged with a 2nd degree felony for failing to update his location with authorities.  Young, formerly of Pennsylvania Avenue in Mill Hall is being held under 12 thousand dollars bail and has a preliminary hearing tomorrow. 

HOUSE FIRE HOSPITALIZES ONE

A house fire on First Street in Shamokin on Friday sent a firefighter to the hospital.  According to media outlets, several homes were damaged by the blaze and one firefighter was taken to Geisinger Shamokin for treatment.  Two others were treated at the scene for minor injuries.  There has not been a cause of the fire released by local police at this time. 

CO-WORKER OVERHEARS ALLEGED THREATS TO BUSINESS

Two men from Montgomery were overheard by another employee allegedly quoting movie lines which sounded as if they wanted to shoot up the factory as they worked at Custom Container Solutions and they have now been charged with misdemeanor counts of terroristic threats, simple assault and disorderly conduct.  According to the Daily Item, 33 year old Paul Michael Temple and 32 year old Charles Anthony Adams were identified by the co-worker who accused them March 21st about 9am.  Police say one of the men had a loaded weapon in his locker at work.  The men said they were saying lines from the movie, “Full Metal Jacket”.  They are scheduled for a preliminary hearing at the end of this month in from of District Judge Michael Diehl.

LAWMAKERS PAVE THE ROAD FOR LEGAL CANNABIS IN PA

A bipartisan bill passed 46-3 in the Pennsylvania Senate that will allow banks and insurance companies a way to serve cannabis businesses without the fear of any legal reprisals.  According to the Sun Gazette, one spokesman of the bill, John DiSanto,  a Dauphin County Republican said allowing cash transactions for medical cannabis users will lower costs and boost the economy.  There are other plans to propoes a bill that will allow edible cannabis products to be sold for medical use in Pennsylvania dispensaries.  Medical marijuana was legalized in PA in 2016, but recreational use is still controversial. 

SPORTS

NASCAR
Kyle Busch in the #18 Toyota came in first of the Food City Dirt Race at Bristol Motor Speedway yesterday – he led Tyler Reddick, Joey Logano, Kyle Larson, and Ryan Blaney who filled out the top five.

Easter Sunday Major League Baseball
Orioles 5              Yankees 0
Pirates 5               Nationals 3
Mets 5                  Diamondbacks 0
Marlins 11           Phillies 3
Giants 8               Guardians 1

NHL
Panthers 6           Redwings 1
Sabers 5               Flyers 3
Blues 8                Predators 3
Wild 5                 Sharks 4
Maple Leafs 4     Islanders 2
Ducks 6               Blue Jackets 4

NBA in the East First Round Games
Heat 115             Hawks 91
Celtics 115          Nets 114
Bucks 93             Bulls 86
Suns 110             Pelicans 99
First round continues tonight with second games between Raptors and the 76ers,
Jazz and the Mavericks, and the Warriors and the Nuggets.

BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS APRIL 15, 2022

NO FLIGHTS UNTIL SUMMER

Officials at Williamsport Regional Airport confirmed this week that Southern Airways will not have the expected commercial flights in place this month, instead holding off until at least late summer.  According to the Sun Gazette, airport director Richard Howell said Southern reconsidered their plans for Williamsport’S 3 flights per day on 9 planes, after SkyWest Airlines made an announcement to remove 29 cities from their flight roster.  Howell also reported at the Airport Authority meeting that the facility benefits from 3.7 million dollars in total CARES Act funding at this time. 

100TH ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION FOR THE UNITED WAY

The Lycoming County United Way celebrated their 100th Anniversary yesterday.  Williamsport Mayor Derek Slaughter, along with representatives from Pennsylvania’s government were at the event to acknowledge the LCUW’s landmark.  The First Community Foundation Partnership, a solid partner of the United Way presented them with a gifted contribution of 250 thousnad dollars.  The two groups were instrumental joining forces during the shut downs the COVID pandemic caused in the past few years, by helping to provide resources to the community.

BRIDGE REPLACEMENT BRIDGE IN MUNCY

There will be a bridge replacement project started next Monday in Muncy that will close Water Street between Main Street and Green Street.  There will be detours in place.  Truck traffic coming from Interstate 180 to the Industrial Park in Muncy Township will use exit 17, Lycoming Mall Road. According to a press release, Susquehanna Valley Construction Corporation will begin by removing the existing bridge over Glade Run.  Work will include new drainage and inlets, upgraded ADA ramps, realignment of the intersection, new traffic signals, and paving.

WASD NOTED AS A “BEST COMMUNITY” FOR MUSIC EDUCATION

A National designation as one of the Best Communities for Music Education  has come to Williamsport High School for the 20th time in 21 years, showcasing an outstanding commitment to student musicians.  The National Association of Music Merchants or NAMM Foundation selected on 738 school districts nationwide to be a Best Community providing music access and education to all students.  Find to full list of school at namm foundation dot org.

SECOND PERSON CHARGED IN WILLIAMSPORT STATUE DAMAGE AND THEFT

A New Jersey 19 year old is the second person to be charged for the damage and theft of the bronze baseball bat from the Little League statue at third and Market streets last October in Williamsport.  According to the Sun Gazette, Shane Thomas Perry, of Denville, faces one felony count of criminal mischief and was recently arraigned in district court for damaging and placing the bronze bat worth 5 thousand dollars on the ground.  A former South Williamsport resident was previously charged with receiving stolen property after she took the bat from in front of the statue.  Perry is free on 15 thousand dollars bail. 

PA UNIVERSITIES FREEZE TUITION

A New Jersey 19 year old is the second person to be charged for the damage and theft of the bronze baseball bat from the Little League statue at third and Market streets last October in Williamsport.  According to the Sun Gazette, Shane Thomas Perry, of Denville, faces one felony count of criminal mischief and was recently arraigned in district court for damaging and placing the bronze bat worth 5 thousand dollars on the ground.  A former South Williamsport resident was previously charged with receiving stolen property after she took the bat that Perry allegedly damaged.  He is free on 15 thousand dollars bail. 

COMMISSIONERS APPROVE DISASTER DECLARATION

An emergency disaster declaration has been approved by the Lycoming County Commissioners after a tornado hit Lairdsville in late March.  According to North Central Pa dot com local and state representatives surveyed the damage that happened to 25 homes and a barn, with some of the homes being lifted from their foundations. The declaration  is a way for the Coms to get FEMA and PEMA funding, but Commissioner Mirabito pointed out, to get that funding,there needs to be 20 million dollars in minimum damage.   They plan to seek other funds for Lairdsville relief where the average household has an income of 29 thousand a year and some have no insurance. 

SCHICK STUDENTS WILL TRAVEL TO ODYSSEY OF THE MIND WORLDS

The group of Odyssey of the Mind students from Donald E Schick Elementary has advanced to the World finals taking place in Iowa this May.  Odyssey of Mind is a problem-solving competition that encourages students to be creative  while planning a presentation of the project that they have been challenged with.  The six student team from grades 3 and 4 have advanced through regional and state competitions already.  If you’d like to support the Schick Elementary school’s travel budget by donating on their GoFundMe Page “Help Schick Elem OM team get to Worlds”  – or click here. https://gofund.me/87a830c0

BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS APRIL 14, 2022

ILLEGAL WINDOW TINT LEADS TO POLICE CHASE

No bail has been set for a Kulpmont man who started a police chase in Coal Run Township over an illegal window tint.  According to North Central PA dot com, 58-year old James Campbell fled from officers who initiated the traffic stop February 20th. Stonington State Police say Campbell committed numerous traffic violations including running stop signs, hitting other vehicles and failing to signal before he lost control of the car on Wabash Street.  Police then pursued Campbell through St Edwards Cemetery on foot.  He will be charged with misdemeanors for assault, reckless endangerment, flight to avoid arrest and over 35 traffic offenses.  CamPbell will appear in Northumberland county Court May 10th.

FUNDRAISER FOR ERWAY FAMILY

There has been an overwhelming response to the tragic house fire that took the lives of five teenagers and seriously injured 2 adults in Potter County earlier this week.  According to media outlets, Brothers Raymond, Tristan, and Evan Erway, who were 17, 16 and 14 respectively, and two friends, Krysta Kane and Mikalah Roulo were the victims of the fire.  Officials have ruled the cause undetermined at this time, but evidence points to a wood stove malfunction. The three boys attended Northern Potter High School in Ulysses where grief counseling is being provided for students. There will be a fundraising auction day at the school April 24th from 11am til 3pm. Parents, Michelle and Charles Erway, were lifeflighted to a burn unit in New York state, after police say they tried to save the children from the fire that broke out in their in Genesee township home in the early morning hours Monday. 

JERSEY SHORE BOROUGH SEEKING NEW MAYOR

The Mayor’s job is available in Jersey Shore Borough, after current Mayor Sally Ann Combs announced her resignation at this week’s meeting.  Council accepted Combs’ resignation since she has moved from the borough and now they have 30 days to fill the position.   According to the Sun Gazette, borough manager Cody Hoover will advertise the position and do personnel reviews. 

PENNDOT SURVEY ABOUT LAST WINTER

PennDOT has published an online survey so that the public can give feedback on their winter operations.   According to a press release, the survey is available through April 29th and should take about five minutes to complete.  The survey has 17 questions and will ask the anonymous respondents to rank snow removal priorities, to state a reasonable timeline for safe and passable roads and how they rate PennDOT services.  Those who take the survey will also be asked whether they use the state’s 511PA traveler information services.  Find a link for the survey at www.penndot.pa.gov  under “Travel in PA” and then “Winter”.

HARTLEY TOWNSHIP GRASS FIRE

There was a wildfire yesterday afternoon near Paddy Mountain Road that burned for about half an hour after volunteer crews arrived to extinguish it.  According to media outlets, the Hartley Township fire was reported around 12:30 pm and emergency communication officials say there were two foot flames moving moderately and was a 60 by 60 foot area.  DCNR will investigate the Union County fire.  No one was injured in the incident. 

MAN JAILED AFTER SELLING HOT BOW

A man who tried to sell a stolen bow at a Mill Hall gun shop has been jailed in Clinton County and also faces charges in Mifflin County after he admitted to stealing items from an auction in Belleville.  According to the Record Online, 27 year old Christopher Secrest, of Huntingdon, tried to sell the stolen Hoyt Carbon Rx1 at Millers Gun Shop before the shop employee became supicous and called police.  They found the bow to be one of a few stolen items.  Secrets is being held in the Clinton County Correctional facility.

GRAFIUS RUN COULD SEE IMPROVEMENTS

In an effort to design a solution for the high stream waters and other issues that cause problems for residents at Grafius Run, officials in Williamsport are seeking design and construction plans that might control the conditions of the area.  According to the Sun Gazette, cross pipe replacement, pump station repair and solid engineering design are being considered to recertify the flood wall nearby that protects structures that are close by.  Mayor Derek Slaughter told the paper that getting the flood risk reduced for Grafius Run is a high priority, since it’s been impacting residents a long time. 

CORMAN BACK IN THE GOVERNOR’S RACE

In a flip flop move, Pennsylvania Senate pro tem, Jake Corman, filed the paperwork to withdraw from the Pennsylvania GOP Gubernatorial race, but then changed his mind Tuesday by filing a discontinue to withdraw petition.  According to WGAL, Corman who is from Bellefonte, released a statement that he spoke with former President Trump about the contest and was encouraged to keep fighting.  Trump has not endorsed any of the 9 republican candidates for PA Governor.  Recent polls have Corman in fifth place behind Sen. Doug Mastriano, former US Congressman Lou Barletta, businessman David White and former US Attorney, Bill McSwain.

SPORTS

PIAA District 4
Varsity Baseball
Central Mountain 4               Danville 2
Canton 13                              Millville 7

Varsity Softball
Muncy 10                              Millville 0

MLB
Nationals 3                   Braves 1
Pirates 6                        Cubs 2
Guardians 7                  Reds 3
Mets 9                           Phillies 6
Brewers 4                     Orioles 2
Blue Jays 6                   Yankees 4
NHL
Rangers 4                      Flyers 0
Blue Jackets  5             Canadiens 1
Avalanche 9                  Kings 3
The Kracken and Jets were postponed till May 1.

NBA
Play-in East
Hawks 132 Hornets 103
Play-in West
Pelicans 113 Spurs 103
Post Season –East and West First Rounds starts on Saturday 4/16 –
Game 1 for – Jazz & Mavericks, Timberwolves vs Grizzlies, Raptors & the 76ers and the Nuggets vs the Warriors

BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS APRIL 13, 2022

POTTER COUNTY FIRE KILLS 5, INJURES 2

Two adults were injured and five teenagers killed when a fire tore through a Potter County home about 3:30am Monday.  According to Penn Live, Michelle and Charles Erway, are currently in a burn unit at a hospital in New York, after police say they tried to save three boys, ages 14, 16, and 17, and two girls, both 16, who were sleeping in their Genesee Township home. The Olean Times reports that two of the teens were friends of the Erway’s three children who were sleeping over.  An investigation has pointed to a wood stove chimney malfunction in the basement may have caused the fire, but the damage is too extensive to determine at this time. The deaths are being ruled accidental.

MAN CHARGED WITH RECKLESS ENDANGERMENT

A Waterville man has been charged with four counts of reckless endangerment after he fired a handgun from a moving truck along Little Pine Creek toward people who were fishing nearby.  According to the Sun Gazette, 23 year old Dalton Laubenstein had been arguing with a girlfriend and then told police he had fired toward a road sign after he left the Pine Township area.  Police say in an affidavit that Laubenstein was riding in a truck driven by a minor who had been drinking, and may have provided alcohol for them.  Laubenstein faces more charges for corrupting the morals of a minor and disorderly conduct.

SOUTHSIDE SCHOOL BOARD ADD IN-SERVICE DAYS

Two professional development days were added to the South Williamsport School Calendar for 2023 during this week’s school board meeting. Teachers from Central Elementary came forth recently addressing the need for them.  According to North Central Pa dot com, the Southside Schoolboard approved February 17th and May 23rd  to be added next year for kindergarten through 6th grades so that teachers can utilize important  professional development days. In addition, a new superintendent hiring process will begin this month as Dr. Mark Stamm submitted his resignation.  Dr. Stamm will be transitioning to the East Lycoming School District. 

HAZARDOUS WASTE COLLECTION IN CENTRE COUNTY

There will be a hazardous waste collection event on April 28th through 30th in Centre County that will utilize pre-registration to alleviate long lines of cars at the disposal site.  According to the Express, the Centre County Recycling and Refuse Authority will collect hazardous waste like insecticides, pool chemicals, poisons and corrosives, oil based paints, CFL bulbs and fluorescent tubes.  Latex paints, oil, antifreeze, medications, batteries and explosives are not accepted.  To pre-register for the event at 253 Transfer Rd in Bellefonte, go to www.centrecountyrecycles.com or call (814) 238-7005

AT LEAST ONE GUILTY PLEA EXPECTED IN 2016 STARVATION CASE

One of four people involved in the starvation death of two little girls from Lycoming County has scheduled a guilty plea for the third-degree murder she faces for later this year.  According to Penn Live, 49 year old Michelle Butler waived her arraignment this week and has not made any plea deal with DA, Ryan C. Gardner.  Butler’s husband Ronald is also on trial for obstruction of child abuse has also waived his arraignment.  The Butler’s daughter, Echo, and her partner, the girls’ mother, Marie Sue Snyder, are primarily accused of starving 6 year old Nicole Elisabeth and 4 year old Jasmine Jean Snyder in May of 2016, with their bodies found in Hepburn Township that November.  Court records say Michelle Butler allegedly knew of the abuse but concealed it from a Children and Youth Caseworker.  All the women are incarcerated without bail.  Ronald Butler is in jail in lieu of bail.  Both girls weighed less than ten pounds at their death. 

CONTRACTOR ACCUSED OF TAKING FUNDS, NOT DOING WORK

A Muncy paving contractor has been charged with several felonies for failure to provide service, deceptive business practices and theft by deception.  According to the Sun Gazette, 48 year old Brian Richard Jacobs, owner of B&B Sealcoat, took deposits from three separate customers in April of 2021 and gave a verbal time frame for completing work, but did not start the projects.  Jacobs eventually refused to return the deposits and the victims called police.  He has been arraigned in District Court and is free on $15,000 bail. 

STATE POLICE SETTLE WITH ACLU

In a settlement to potentially avoid lengthy litigation, the PA State Police have reached an agreement of 865 thousand dollars with the ACLU.  According to NorthCentral PA dot com, Marquez et. al. vs the Commonwealth  et. al. was filed by the ACLU on behalf of 10 people who say their civil rights were violated during their immigration detention.  Since the suit began, federal laws have been revised so that policies and training are consistent with current immigration case laws.  Part of the settlement includes mandatory training to help enlisted members become familiar with new procedures. 

WELLNESS CENTER GETS A NEW LOCATION

Evangelical’s Community Health and Wellness department will move to a new location next month.  According to a press release, the new location will be at The Miller Center beginning May 2nd.  The new location will allow easier access to programming activities as the facility is built around the focus of healthy living.  Anyone attending events at The Miller Center should use the main entrance that faces Giant during their business hours from 8am until 4:30 pm, Monday through Friday. 

SPORTS

PIAA District 4
Varsity Baseball
Sullivan county 13                Sugar Valley Rural Charter 8
Muncy 16                               Millville 3
CMVT 7                                 Montgomery 3
Benton 19                               Bucktail 4
Wellsboro 15                         Towanda 6
North Penn Mansfield 14     Troy 8
Varsity Softball
Warrior Run 12                     Hughesville 1
North Penn Liberty 11          Troy 1
Montoursville 19                  Southern Columbia 6
Central Mountain 15            Mifflinburg 0
Muncy 10                              Millville 0
Cowanesque Valley 12         Williamson 0.

NBA
The NBA Play-in East
 7th place vs eighth place
Nets 115  Cavaliers 108
In the NBA Play-in West
Timberwolves 109 Clippers 104

Major League Baseball of note
Guardians 10      Reds 5
Cubs 2                 Pirates 1
Mets 2                 Phillies  0
Brewers 5            Orioles 4
Yankees 4           Blue Jays 0
Braves 16            Nationals 4

NHL
Blues 4                Bruins 2
Sabres 5               Maple Leafs 2
Panthers 3           Ducks 2 in OT
Hurricanes 4       Rangers 2
Capitals 9            Flyers 2
Senators 4          Redwings 1
Islanders 5          Penguins 4
Wild 5                Oilers 1
Predators 1          Sharks 0
Kings 5                Blackhawks 2
Flames 5              Kracken 3
Stars 1                 Lightning 0
Canucks 5           Golden Knights 4
Devils 6               Coyotes 2

BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS APRIL 12, 2022

GRANT FOR ATV TRAIL ANNOUNCED IN CLINTON COUNTY

A 1.2 million dollar grant has been announced for Clinton County to develop and fund an ATV connector trail between Renovo and Chapman Township.  According to The Express, Department of Conservation and Natural Resources Secretary Cindy Adams Dunn made the announcement for the connector between the Whiskey Springs to Blood Skillet trail, which will include over a mile of trail between Brewery Run Road and Sproul State Forest, which will be ADA accessible.  According to chamber officials there, ATV riding is an increasingly popular outdoor activity and Clinton County has the space for it. 

DEP RECOGNIZES ENERGY SAVINGS IN PAXINOS

The Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection has recognized an upgrade in Paxinos that has resulted in a drop in energy costs up to 70 percent at Dries Orchards.  According to the DEP, the installation at the orchards packing and storage facilities were supported through the Agricultural Energy Efficiency Rebate Program which pays up to 5 thousand dollars per business by utilizing energy efficient technologies like LED lighting. Officials from the orchard say the lighting has improved overall employee morale and quality control. 

SPONSOR A FLAG ON MEMORIAL DAY

If you’d like to sponsor a flag of Honor in Triangle Park in Lock Haven over Memorial Day weekend, the deadline to sign up is May 13th.  According to the Express, The Downtown Lock Have Rotary Club’s annual project brings sponsored full-size flages on 10 foot poles to the park  between May 28th and June 1st.  With a goal of 100 flags for a $35 fee, the money raised goes to local non-profit organizations.  Corporate sponsors are also available this year for $100.  For more information, email [email protected].

AMERICAN PICKERS COMING BACK TO PA

If you’ve seen the American Pickers TV show, you know the hosts go to dusty spots all over America to find antiques, well they’re coming back to PA in June and are looking for more spots to pick, hoping to meet Pennsylvanians with unique collections of pickable relics.  If you know of someone in Pennsylvania who has an accumulation of antiques or treasures that are available to be looked at, you’re encouraged to email; Americanpickers@cineflix dot com or get the details on Facebook at GotAPick

ST MARK’S LUTHERAN SPIRE DAMAGE REPAIR

Crews in large cranes were working to remove the spire of St Mark’s Lutheran Church yesterday just off the Market Street Bridge.  According to the Sun Gazette, after wind gusts were reported in early March that damaged the structure, the church will see what repairs can be made and if it can be made less prone to wind damage in the future.  Watch for work crew to be on the scene again today.  Gusts that damaged the spire topped 50 miles per hour.

VETERANS CAN FIND HELP NAVIGATING VA

Representative Joe Hamm, who serves the 84th Legislative District, has announced that he will be holding service hours in his Montoursville office this Wednesday so that veterans and their families can get assistance navigating the VA benefits system or ask other questions.  According to Representative Hamm’s newsletter, William McGovern, a veterans service officer from the American Legion, can assist with Compensation and pension claims,  Education benefits, enrollment in the VA, survivor benefits, state benefits or with medical or military records. Call 570-546-2084 to make an appointment and be prepared to give contact information and a description of their issue, veterans do not need to belong to the Legion to get help. 

PRIMARY ELECTION REMINDERS

With the Primary election in Pennsylvania coming up May 17th, now is the time to start thinking about eligibility and whether you are registered to vote.  An eligible voter is someone who is 18 on or before the day of the primary, has been a citizen of the United States for a month before the election and has been a resident of the election district in which you wish to vote for 30 days.  Only Republicans or Democrats can vote for the candidates in the primary, however ballot questions are for all voters.  The deadline to register is May 2nd, 2022.

FREE MULCH IN SUNBURY

You don’t have to wait long to get free mulch in Sunbury!  According to Sunbury’s Department of Public Works announced the giveaway will be Aril 30th from 7am til noon, while mulch supplies last.  Officials say they will provide a loader and skid steer at the city’s brush pile at North Second Street and John Street to help load the trucks and trailers.  The public can come back as many times as they  want for the free mulch, and the event is not exclusive to Sunbury residents.  Details at sunburypa.org.

SPORTS

Major League Baseball
Guardians 10 Royals 7
Orioles  2   Brewers 0
Phillies 5 Mets four,
Blue Jays 3Yankees 0
Nationals 11 Braves 2
Pirates and Cardinals were postponed with a make up date of June 14.

NHL – Jets beat the Canadians 4-2

The NBA with east and west matchups this week post season – 
Cleveland is in Brooklyn @7pm and LA in Minnesota play 9:30.  Charlotte & Atlanta and San Antonio & New Orleans play 9th vs 10th place matchups tomorrow.

PIAA District 4
Varsity Baseball
Central Dauphin 6                 Williamsport 0
Loyalsock 6                            Warrior Run 2
North Penn Mansfield 16     Williamson 6
Shikellamy 9                         Shamokin 1
Central Columbia 7               Hughesville 0
Midd-west 3                           Bloomsburg 0
Southern Columbia 15         CMVT 0
Central mountain 7                Lewisburg 2
Muncy 3                                 Canton 1
Mifflinburg 5                        Jersey Shore 4
Benton 6                                Northwest 3
Mount Carmel 11                  Milton 1
Selinsgrove 11                       Danville 2
Wellsboro 16                         North East Bradford 1
South Williamsport 9           Cowanesque Valley 0

Varsity Softball
Bloomsburg 12                      Hughesville 5
 Montgomery 15                   Saint John Neumann 0
Lewisburg 13                         Southern Columbia 2
North East Bradford 15        Wellsboro 3
Montoursville 5                              South Williamsport 4
Shamokin 9                           Midd-west 5
Cowanesque Valley 14         Troy 5  
North Penn Liberty 12          Coudersport 2
Northwest 16                         CMVT 1
Williamsport 2                      Central Columbia 1
Central Mountain 2               Selinsgrove 0

Local Racin’
The 34th season of the Clinton County Motor Speedway will start this Friday night.  According to the Sun Gazette, local drivers will join 2-time Clinton COUnty Speedway track Champ Garett Bard who returns to the 3/8th mile oval.  Featured cars will be RaceSaver Sprint cars sanctioned by the Laurel Highlands RaceSaver Sprint series.   

BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS APRIL 11, 2022

HARRASSMENT CHARGES FILED IN WILLIAMSPORT

Charges against a Williamsport woman have been held for court following an investigation.  According to the police affidavit, the incident occurred in December 2021 when Terry Moore attacked a woman and two others outside a café at the 400 block of Washington Boulevard.  Asia Ungard sustained injuries allegedly inflicted by Moore who was said to have punched kicked and bitten her, and was transported to the hospital.  Twenty-four year old Moore faces Simple assault and harassment charges.

A GOOSE STRIKE CAUSED A FATAL MOTORCYCLE CRASH

An unnamed motorcyclist was killed in Bucks County Friday morning after a goose flew out of the woods and hit him in the head along River Road in Bristol Township. Witnesses say the man, who was not wearing a helmet and riding a 2013 Harley Davidson motorcycle around 10am, was hit by the goose, sideswiped a sedan in the oncoming lane and then hit a Toyota SUV.  He was pronounced dead at the scene.  According to the Bucks County Courier Times, police have not released the name of the victim, but ask that anyone with information about it call police.  

TENTATIVE BUDGET PRESENTED FOR LOYALSOCK TOWNSHIP

In a budget presentation at the Loyalsock Township School board meeting at the end of last week, the business manager said the budget is a work in progress, tentatively showing a .50 mill real estate tax increase.  According to the Sun Gazette, a final 26.3 million dollar budget for the school is expected to be passed in June and currently is showing a deficit even with the increase factored in.  Hirings and ways to address discipline issues make up some of the need for the tax hike, which could bring almost 400 thousand dollars and make the total millage rate 15.6.  For a resident, this means about 50 dollars more in property taxes per 100 thousand dollars of assessed home value.

EMPLOYMENT INCENTIVES AT NORRY PRISON

New incentives are to be implemented at the Northumberland County prison to bolster their staff, including bonuses for getting friends to apply for positions there, and 500 dollars for working 6 months without any last minute call-offs.  The new recruitment program was approved this week and will go into effect starting TODAY.  According to media outlets there is also a Deputy Warden position open at the Coal Township Northumberland County lockup.  The county has been struggling with a shortage of correctional officers. 

MAN ADMITS TO STABBING SHAMOKIN WOMAN

A Shamokin man turned himself in at the end of last week for fatally stabbing a Shamokin woman with a sword April 1st.  According the Daily item, 21 year old Corey Quincy told police that in his Vine Street home he became angry with Rhonda Pearce, while demanding drugs, and stabbed her with a sword following a struggle.  Police say the gruesome scene was left for three days before they were called.  Quincy has been charged with felony homicide and abuse of a corpse last night in Shamokin District Court. 

LOCK HAVEN FATHER IN TROUBLE FOR TAKING KIDS

A Lock Haven man who took his two young sons out to dinner last Tuesday and didn’t return them to their mother who has custody, was apprehended in Franklin, Virginia and charged with Interference with the Custody of Children as well as other charges Thursday.  According to the Record Online, Sean Michael Hendershot Jr.’s two and six year old boys were found safe and returned with their family in Pennsylvania Thursday.  Hendershot waived extradition and is being transported back to Clinton County for his arraignment this week.

DUBOISTOWN APPROVES RENTAL INSPECTION ORDINANCE

A rental inspection ordinance was approved at the DuBoistown Borough Council Meeting last week in addition to approval for a contract for manhole restoration.  According to the Sun Gazette, the rental inspection ordinance for non-owner occupied homes will be required every four years and allows the borough to communicate with both the home owner and tenant.  The manhole cover project will take place along Euclid and Edgewood Avenues.  The Duboistown community yard sale date was also announced for Saturday May 7th from 8am til 1pm.  Email abaker @duboistown dot org to register.

AUTISM RESOURCE CENTER TO BE BUILT AT MU

Mansfield University will be using a grant from AllOne Foundation to develop an Autism Resource Center to enhance regional training opportunities for families, students and educators.  According to a press release from Mansfield University the 126 thousand dollar grant will provide specific training modules for first responders which will be implemented in partnership with the MU Public Safety Training Institute.  Local students and parents will also be able to benefit from a lending library on the Mansfield Campus that will help families living with Autism and school districts connect easier.  

SPORTS

NBA
Nets 134                    Pacers 126
Hornets 124             Wizards 108
Cavaliers 133            Bucks 115
Hawks 130                Rockets 114
Celtics 139                Grizzlies 110
Knicks 105                Raptors 94
Magic 125                 Heat 111
76ers 118                   Pistons 106
Bulls 124                   Timberwolves 120
Mavericks 130          Spurs 120
Lakers 146                Nuggets 141 in OT
Clippers 138              Thunder 88
Warriors 128             Pelicans 107 
Kings 116                  Suns 109
Jazz 111                     Trailblazers 80
NHL
Capitals 4                  Bruins 2
Penguins 3                 Predators 2
Lightning 5                Sabers 0
Wild 6                        Kings 3
Hurricanes 5             Ducks 2
Stars 6                       Blackhawks 4
Jets 4                          Senators 3
MLB
 A’s 4                          Phillies 1
Rays 8                       Orioles 0       
White Sox 10            Tigers 1
Reds 6                       Braves 3
Nationals 4                Mets 2
Rangers 12                Blue Jays 6
Guardians 17            Royals 3
Twins 10                    Mariners 4
Pirates 9                     Cardinals 4
Brewers 5                  Cubs 4           
Rockies 9                   Dodgers 4     
Giants 3                     Marlins 2
Astros 4                     Angels 1
Padres 10                   Diamondbacks 5
Red Sox 4                  Yankees 3

SPORTS 4/11/22

GOLF
American Scottie Scheffler finished the Masters with a double bogey Sunday, ending at ten under, but it was enough to secure his first major and green jacket at the 2022 Masters Tournament. McIlroy followed at 7 under and Ireland’s Shane Lowry was third at 5 under. Scheffler brought home a 2.7 million dollar purse.

Tiger Woods may have played his worst games at Augusta National in his professional career, but media outlets say he’ll be remembered for playing with determination and grit, admitting to reporters that he was in pain at the conclusion of the tournament.  He posted 4 consecutive rounds at 6 over 78, 13 over par in 47th place.  Woods did commit to playing in The Open at St. Andrews in July and may play in next month’s PGA Championship.

NASCAR

At Martinsville Saturday evening, William Byron took the lead on pit road after Stage 2 stops and held it leading for 212 laps and became the first repeat winner this season in NASCAR’s Cup Series.

NFL
Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Dwayne Haskins died early Saturday morning after he was struck by a dump truck while he was walking on a South Florida highway. Haskins was training in South Florida with other Steelers quarterbacks, running backs and wide receivers. Haskins was 24 years old.
Gary Brown, who spent seven seasons as the Dallas Cowboys’ running backs coach, died Sunday after being treated for cancer. He was 52. Brown was with the Cowboys from 2013 to 2019.

BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS, APRIL 7, 2022

INMATE GETS MORE TIME FOR HAVING WEAPON

An inmate at Allenwood has been sentenced to 27 more months for possessing a weapon in jail.  North Central PA dot com reported that 42 year old Ellis Gene Battle was seen in an altercation with another inmate by guards last January and ignored commands to stop.  He then fled to his cell where he was discovered to have hidden a 7 and a half inch metal shank.  Battle will serve the 27 months consecutively with his previous charges of possessing a weapon in jail and firearm possession by a felon.

FEDERAL LAWSUIT FILED OVER BASIN STREET PROJECT PLANS

A federal suit has been filed against a construction management company in Williamsport for using materials from a proposal of the mixed-use Basin Street development that they were not authorized to use.  According to the Sun Gazette, the case was filed last month against Pine Ridge Construction Management who proposed the project to the city planning commission last week to a positive recommendation.  Murray Associates says they did not authorize or get paid for the designs and renderings of the project with Lycoming College before they were taken off the project last October.  The 20 million dollar project will be decided upon by City Council in the near future.

MONTOURSVILLE APPROVES NEW FUEL CENTER

A plan for a new fuel center in Montoursville was unanimously approved last night at the Borough planning commission meeting.  According to North Central PA dot com, a new Weis Market Gas N’ Go is set to be built on the east side of the parking area which will include a newly paved and restriped parking lot .  The planning commission reported that the chain wants to begin the project in late summer.  The Montoursville location adds a second local Gas N’ Go to the location on Lycoming Creek Road.

FRIENDS OF FLIGHT 93 TO PLANT MORE TREES

Since 2012, the volunteer group Friends of Flight 93 has reforested over 193 acres of land around the site where the flight on September 11th went down in Shanksville, PA.  This month, on Earth Day weekend April 22, the “Plant a Tree at Flight 93” project volunteers will plant the last of the 150 thousand trees at the site.  The trees have become a windbreak and habitat restoration that has brought the barren strip mine site back to life with species of 38 native trees, 63 native bees and 141 native birds.  Find details about volunteering at flight93friends.org.

DUI CHARGES FOR SUSPECT IN CRASH LAST SUMMER

Felony DUI charges have been filed against the man responsible for a serious crash on the Muncy Creek Bridge last July.  According to North Central Pa dot com, Chester C. Swank III faces 2 felony counts of aggravated assault while intoxicated, after he crossed the yellow line on N. Main St. near John Brady Drive and crashed into another vehicle.  He then went airborne over the side of the bridge in Muncy Creek Township.  Swank and a 4 year old child were pulled from the fiery crash and both sustained serious injuries.  Swank was arraigned last Friday and faces a felony count of endangering the welfare of a child and other charges.

MOTORCYCLE ACCIDENT IN SHAMOKIN TOWNSHIP

A motorcyclist from Luzerne County is in critical condition after a serious crash that occurred yesterday in Shamokin Township.  According to media outlets, 63 year-old Jeffery Williams of Drums was traveling on Rt. 61 Tuesday around 11:30am when he rear-ended another vehicle at Captain Bloom Road.  According to Stonington State police he suffered serious injuries and was transported to Geisinger Medical Center.  The other driver did not sustain any injuries.

NEW RESCUE TRUCK FOR NORTHUMBERLAND

The Northumberland Borough Council has approved the plan for the Northumberland Hook and Ladder company to purchase a 2023 Spartan Metro Rescue 1 Truck for a cost of just about 785 thousand dollars.  According to North Central PA dot com, Northumberland Fire Department Chief Brian Ginck said the new truck will help provide the best rescue service to the area.  He said the current truck is a 1997 model and need to be replaced.   Northumberland council members voted to support the company in seeking a loan from Northumberland National bank for the vehicle, which is expected to be arrive in mid-2023.  Ginck says they will be having upcoming fundraisers for the truck.

WORLD WIDE BOOK CLUB OPPORTUNITY

There’s a global digital book club and you’re invited.  The James V. Brown Library in Williamsport is offering an opportunity for you to join the “Big Library Read”.   Between now and April 18th participants with a library card can borrow the current audiobook or ebook for free, then go online at ebranchtogo.com, and participate in an online discussion.  The worldwide book club features the book “Music Is History” by Questlove.

SPORTS

NBA
Mavericks 131     Pistons 11
Nets 110               Knicks 98
Hawks 118           Wizards 103
Celtics 117 Bulls 94
Jazz 137               Thunder 101
Clippers 113        Suns 109

NHL
Capitals 4             Lightning 3
Red Wings 3         Jets 1
Blues 4                 Kraken 1
Canucks 5            Golden Knights 1
Flames 4               Ducks 2

PIAA District 4 (from 0406)
Varsity Baseball
Troy 6                  Athens 5
Canton 2               Cowanesque Valley 0
Benton 10             Montgomery 8
Williamson 16      Northeast Bradford 1
Central Columbia 3Midd-West 2
Sayre 15               Muncy 1
Varsity Softball
Sullivan County 24        Benton 5
Cowanesque Valley 5    Canton 4    

MLB Opening Day
Veteran Cubs player, Kyle Hendricks will throw the first pitch of the season against Milwaukee today at 2:20pm at Wrigley field.
And Cleveland has a new brand… The Guardians.

Golf
The Masters Tournament
The 86th playing of the year’s first major at Augusta National – Tiger Woods said this Tuesday he’s slated to play for another green jacket barring any health problems from his major car accident last year.



BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS, APRIL 6, 2022

POLICE SEARCH FOR SUSPECT IN WILLIAMSPORT STABBING

Police in Williamsport are investigating a stabbing that happened after 7pm last night near Rural Avenue and Elmira St.  According to the Sun Gazette, the unnamed victim is an 18 year old man who was stabbed twice in the back and was later seen being helped into an ambulance prior to being transported to UPMC Williamsport.  Police told the paper that the suspect knows the victim and they are looking for more information about the incident.  

CHARGES FILED IN 2021 HIT AND RUN CASE

Charges have been filed in a hit and run case against a Jersey Shore man who hit another car while driving with a suspended license at the end of 2021.  According to the Sun Gazette, 40 year old Christopher Evans hit a vehicle along Maynard St in Williamsport last November 22nd and then fled the scene without providing information there.  Evans came forward as the suspect and is free on 2500 dollars bail. 

SNYDER COUNTY OFFERS TO HELP NOTHUMBERLAND PRISON

The problem of severe staff shortages at Northumberland County Prison could be addressed thanks to Snyder County Commissioner Joe Kantz, who has offered to house Northumberland inmates.  According to The Daily Item, Northumberland Prison Warden Bruce Kovach recently retired and then his replacement retired shortly after, leaving the county prison burdened.  Snyder County Prison Warden Scott Robinson says they have room for 50 prisoners at his facility which houses male and female inmates.

OFFICIAL TORNADO LAST THURSDAY

It’s official.  It was an EF-1 Tornado that touched down in Lairdsville last Thursday.  Its’ path was almost 9 miles long and 500 feet wide.  Winds reached their peak at 85-95 miles per hour, injuring just one resident, according to the Sun Gazette.   There hasn’t been a tornado in Montour County for 24 years.  As we head into severe weather season, the National Weather Service is encouraging everyone to make a preparedness plan and decide on a safe place to go in your home in the case of an emergency.  Today, April 6th is #SafePlaceSelfie Day.

VICTIM IDENTIFIED IN WEEKEND I-80 CRASH

Police continue to investigate a two tractor-trailer crash that occurred on I-80 near mile marker 168 in Centre County Saturday morning that killed one person and allegedly injured another according to PA State Police.  The Daily Item reports that 63 year old Michael Gates from New Columbia was involved in the crash and was pronounced dead at the scene. The highway was closed for more than 8 hours for the cleanup and reconstruction of the accident.

WOLF’S CLIMATE CHANGE RESOLUTION BLOCKED

Governor Tom Wolf’s plan to fight climate change has been blocked in the 11th hour  by Pennsylvania’s Republican controlled Legislature.  According to media outlets,  Gov. Tom Wolf’s plan to fight climate change was an attempt to make Pennsylvania the first major fossil fuel state to adopt a carbon pricing policy, which could have required fossil fuel-fired power plants to pay for their emissions starting July 1.  Originally the PA Republicans in the Legislature had failed to block the regulation, but the court sided with the Legislature submitting an order, saying its’ publication is pending further order of the court. 

SEX ABUSE CHARGES FOR MUNCY COUPLE

A Muncy couple has been charged with sexual abuse of a female minor and are both incarcerated after police investigated incidents that occurred last month.  According to the Sun Gazette, Marcus Drake McDaniel of Muncy faces various charges involving rape and sexual assault of a minor.  Michelle Strayer faces charges in obstruction of the case where police say she allowed Strayer to abuse the child in their home.  Both are in prison in lieu of 150 thousand dollars bail each.

JOB FAIR IN SELINSGROVE

If you are looking for employment this season, there will a job fair all day today at the Selinsgrove Center.  According to the PA Department of Human Services, the center provides support for the intellectually disabled such as training in social skills and vocational skills.  The job fair will be held from 8 til noon and 2pm til 6pm at the Selinsgrove Center at 1000 US-522 in Selinsgrove.  Jobs available include aide training, residential and food services and utility plant helper.

SPORTS


PIAA District 4 (Scores from 0405)
Varsity Baseball
Muncy 17             Sullivan County 1
Wellsboro14            Troy 6
Milton 7                   Warrior Run 2


Sayre 16                  Canton 1 (4 innings)
Loyalsock 15            Bloomsburg 3
Wellsboro 7              NP Mansfield 4
Varsity Softball
Montoursville 11           Hughesville 0 (5 innings)
Loyalsock 16                 Bloomsburg 1 (5 innings)
Boys Tennis
Williamsport 5 Mifflinburg 0
Danville 3  Jersey Shore 2
Loyalsock 5  Bloomsburg 0
Lewisburg 5 Hughesville 0

Varsity girls & boys track today at 4:15 Towanda  vs Wyalusing

Varsity baseball today @4:30
Danville vs Shamokin, Middwest vs Central Columbia,  Canton  vs Cowanesque Valley, Athens vs Troy, Towanda vs Wyalusing,  Warrior run vs Southern Columbia, South Williamsport vs Shikellamy, Selinsgrove vs Central Mountain, Williamson vs NEB,  Montgomery vs Muncy, Mifflinburg vs Lewisburg, Jersey Shore vs Montoursville, and Hughesville vs Mount Carmel

Varsity Softball  today at 4:30pm
Towanda vs Wyalusing, Williamson vs NEB, Montgomery vs Muncy, CMVT vs Millville, Canton vs CV, Benton vs Sullivan county

BACKYARD BROADCASTING, LOCAL NEWS APRIL 5, 2022

QUARANTINE FOR THE SPOTTED LATERN FLY

Pennsylvania has now added Lycoming County in the spotted lantern fly quarantine zone in an effort to stop the spread of the invasive pest.  Sydney Moore, a plant inspector with the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture visited with the Lycoming County Commissioners and explained the quarantine.  Residents are encouraged to use a checklist to ensure they are not carrying flies, in any life stage, on your car, camping items or you. A checklist is available on the Pa Dept of Agriculture website. Although the pest is not known to bite humans, they will attack the heart of the agriculture economy, these being wine grapes, juice grape, apples and peaches.

SHOOTING REMAINS UNDER INVESTIGATION IN THE CITY

Williamsport residents have been plagued with gunfire in the city.  As reported by SUN Gazette, shots fired in the early morning hours of March 26 were heard on a surveillance video. Although no one was injured, police are still looking for the shooter on Eldred Street. Police are also continuing the investigation into shots fired near West Church Street just before 2 am on Sunday. This shooting sent one man to the hospital with non-life threatening injuries. Anyone with information is asked to call Patrolman Salisbury with the Williamsport Bureau of Police.

POSITIVE RECOMMENDATION

The Williamsport City Planning Commission approved and has awarded a positive recommendation for a Williamsport construction management company’s land development plan for a mixed-use commercial-residential project in Old City. As reported by SUN Gazette, Pine Ridge Construction Management Inc. has received the nod for the site at 255 E. Third Street, which carries a price tag of $20 million. The land development plan now goes before city council for approval.

 

LYCOMING COUNTY CLEANWATER ACTION PLAN

Lycoming County’s Cleanwater Action Plan, will be presented on Wednesday, April 13 at 7pm at the Covenant Central Presbyterian Church Fellowship Hall in Williamsport by the Susquehanna Chapter of Trout Unlimited. As reported by SUN Gazette, Matt Long, district manager of the Lycoming County Conservation District, and Billy Clees, coordinator of the County’s Cleanwater Action Plan will discuss projects for Pine Run, Bottle Run, and Bennetts Run. Most of the projects are focused on waterways impaired by agricultural activities.

 

ASSAULT CHARGES ON WATSONTOWN MAN

An 18-year-old Watsontown man was charged with simple assault and harassment. On Friday, just after 3:30 pm, Watsontown Police were dispatched to a residence in the 100 block of South Main St. for a report of a domestic disturbance.  Wyatt Lane Hoffman had allegedly assaulted a female victim by striking, shoving and kicking her during a domestic dispute.  Hoffman was taken into custody and arraigned by Magistrate Michael I. Diehl of Milton, with bail being set at $5,000.00, unsecured.  A preliminary hearing has been set for April 13th.

POLICE WARN OF CHECK WASHING SCAM

Local residents are being warned to be aware of check washing scams that have occurred in Mahoning Township.  Police have reported that since early this year, victims have had checks taken from mailboxes and then information “washed” or erased from the checks and then upgraded to higher amounts.  News outlets say the inspection arm of the United Postal Service is investigating the incidents.  They say outgoing mail is most safe when placed in blue collection boxes managed by the postal service and that to have mail held by the post office when going out of town.

SANDUSKY FILES AN APPEAL IN FEDERAL COURT

The lawyer of the convicted sex offender, Jerry Sandusky, has filed another appeal in federal court. According to WNEP, the most recent appeal claims Sandusky’s legal team made errors that led to him not getting a fair trial ten years ago. He has unsuccessfully appealed at the State level in previous years.  They are asking for the previous trial and sentence to be thrown out so a new trial can be scheduled.

 

ONLINE CLEMENCY APPLICATION HELPS EX-CONVICTS

With April designated as Second Chance month, there is a plan to improve online access for ex-convicts in Pennsylvania so they can apply for clemency.  According to Commonwealth Media Services, Lt. Gov. John Fetterman has unveiled a new initiative through his role as chair of the state Board of Pardons, that will remove the paper-based process of applying for a pardon and transition to a digital system for the first time in state history. A mobile app will allow applicants to upload documents and track the status of their application. The system should be up and running by January 2023.

SOUTHSIDE MAN ARRESTED FOR CHILD PORN

A South Williamsport man has been arrested after he was linked to an email address that was flagged for child abuse and pornographic material.  According to NorthCentralPAdotcom state police say a tip came through in January that led investigators to the home of Christopher Fraunfelter who was taken into custody March 15th after a search warrant revealed that the man was in possession of the material in question.  Fraunfelter had a preliminary hearing March 28th with Judge Gary Whiteman.

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