Linglestown Twilight blanks Palmyra

Linglestown Twilight pitcher Jack Muscalus helped get the team back on the winning track Sunday at Koons Park by keeping Palmyra off the scoreboard and limiting them to five hits. The 5-0 victory runs the team’s record to 12-4-1, first place in the East Shore Twilight league by three points over Valley View.

The turning point of the game came in the fourth inning when Palmyra booted the ball three times and allowed Linglestown to score three runs on only one hit.

Former minor league player Steve Booker had another good game at the plate with two hits, a RBI, two runs scored and two stolen bases. Third baseman Jim Miller also had a multiple-hit game with two singles and was named the Linglestown TV player of the game – see the video below.

Twilight notes …Second baseman Shawn Berwager was robbed of a hit in the third inning by a diving catch in right field by Palmyra’s Bert Malloy. … Hershey Bears left winger Louis Robitaille is on Palmyra's roster but did not show up for the game. ... Veteran pitcher Pete Hayden made a rare non-pitching appearance on the field when his number was called to serve as a courtesy runner for catcher Bryan Stovall. … Linglestown TV host Bill Bostic got the team’s record wrong in the post-game video. "The miscue is proof that I’m not ready for ESPN yet," Bostic said when informed of the blunder. ... Linglestown will play Tuesday, July 1, at Koons Park against Steelton, 6 pm first pitch. The game will be the fourth time the two teams have squared off this season. Linglestown won the first two games by blowout scores, but the last one played on June 18 in Steelton was a nailbiter, a 4-3 win by Linglestown in 10 innings.

Police searching for car wash thief

Lower Paxton Twp. police are investigating a theft/criminal mischief that occurred Saturday at 1 am at the Fast Lane Car Wash, 1054 Peiffers Lane, which is located close to Union Deposit Road across from Lowe’s Home Improvement store. This incident occurred early Saturday, June 28, at 1:00 am.

The suspect, a white male who was driving a white vehicle pictured below, entered the car wash and broke into several vending machines. Security video shows him trying to access the coin boxes in the machines.

Anyone knowing the identity of the suspect is asked to call the Lower Paxton Police Dept. at 717-657-5656, or the Lower Paxton TIP LINE at 717-635-2606.

Low electric wires block traffic

Fire police responded to a call in the Linglestown area today about low-hanging electric wires that were blocking vehicle traffic on Blue Bird Avenue near N. Blue Ribbon Avenue. They stayed on site until a PPL repair crew showed up to correct the problem, said a Linglestown Fire Co. official.

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– News tip submitted by Jay Mumper

Linglestown, LP, CD news fix for 06.29/08

Here’s a healthy dose of stuff you won’t find compiled anywhere else.

Keep reading >>

Linglestown gets a new hair salon

Shalyn's Hair Studio has opened in the village square at the location formerly occupied by St. Thomas Barbershop that was operated by Jim Griffiths.

CD student recognized for good character

Emily is a 2008 CD High School graduate. The photo appeared in The Paxton Herald, which is available at many retail stores every Wednesday – free copies are available at Karns and Amelia's Grocery Outlet.

Legion vaults into 1st with blowout win

Linglestown Legion’s Zach Seaman and Andrew Roman shared six hits and seven RBIs Thursday in a lopsided 19-2 victory over Steelton at Koons Park. Tom Healy chipped in a three-run homer, while Sam Nott and Tyler Thompson each slammed three of Legion’s 19 hits.

Both teams plated a runner in the first inning, and then Legion took control of the game in the second inning for good by batting around and scoring six runs on four hits, two walks and an error. The game was ended after six innings dut to the 15-run mercy rule. (Source Link)

Legion notes … Lingletown’s leadoff batter Josh Hannold earned a walk to start the game, the third straight game that he has gotten a free pass in the team’s first-inning at bat. In 10 games played to date, Hannold has an outstanding six walks and two hits in his first at bat. … Winning pitcher Zach Seaman got bullpen help from Adam Chernicoff who pitched three scoreless innings. … Heading into this weekend’s Dauphin County League action, Legion (7-2, 14 points) was tied for first place with Hershey (7-1, 14 points). … The team’s next home game at Koons Park is Monday, June 30, first pitch at 6 pm against Paxton.
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– Game notes submitted by Fran Roman

Linglestown postcard

Black-eyed Susan in backyard at Gazette headquarters.
Photo credit: Danielle Bostic

Driver arrested for using inhalants

Lower Paxton Twp. police received numerous calls early Thursday afternoon about a white van that was being driven erratically on Route 22 in the vicinity of Hoffman Fordland. Officers responded to the area and located the vehicle and driver, later identified as Michael R. Smith, age 38, who has a Fishing Creek Valley Road address in West Hanover Twp.

Smith was in a semi-conscious state behind the wheel of his Chevy van and officers observed an aerosol can between his ear and shoulder. He was charged with reckless driving and driving while impaired.

BB AnswerLine: Navigating Linglestown square?

Question … Is it legal to go to the right of the main line of cars on N. Mountain Road at the Eagle Hotel in the square to make a right-hand turn onto Linglestown Road (Rt. 39 East)?

– posted by mzimmy on PennLive’s Linglestown Forum (See thread #401.)

BB answer … According to a LP traffic safety officer that answered my info request, swinging out to the right of the main line of traffic is legal at the Eagle Hotel on N. Mountain Road as long as two conditions are met: (1) you can be pull off the maneuver safely and (2) it does not require leaving the roadway, which shouldn’t be an issue at the square.

It’s best to stay in line until you’re second in line though – you will be cited if pulling out to the right results in a collision with a motorist who does the same thing further up in the line.
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BB AnswerLine is a free service provided by Linglestown Gazette and its subsidiary Linglestown TV.

CLICK HERE to submit a question via e-mail – please put “BB AnswerLine” in subject line.

Twilight, Legion baseball update for 06.26.08

Legion game summary updated Saturday, June, 28 ...

Extra-inning homer sinks Twilight

Jason Antes rocketed a liner over the left field fence at cozy Koons Park in the eighth inning that lifted Lykens/Wiconisco over Linglestown Twilight 3-2 Wednesday.

Linglestown briefly took a 2-0 lead in the third inning off two walks and two hits, but their bats were very quiet the rest of the way.

Twilight notes … Josh Muscalus pitched a solid game despite getting tagged for the loss. He allowed seven hits, struck out six, walked two and hit a batter. … At the plate, Sean Frailey and Bryan Stovall each had one RBI. … Twilight remains in first place in the East Shore Twilight league with a 10-4-1 record, 21 points (two points for a win; one point for a tie). Second-place Valley View has 20 points. … Next home game at Koons Park is this Sunday, June 29, 5 pm start against Palmyra.

Legion betters Lawnton by seven

Linglestown Legion won for the sixth time in eight tries, parlaying Andrew Roman’s two-run homer and three Zach Seaman hits into a 12-5 triumph Wednesday over Lawnton.

Lawnton could only muster five hits against starter Kyle Weldon and reliever Matt Smedick. Weldon also helped himself by driving in two runs on sacrifice flies. Source Link

Legion notes … Josh Hannold recorded two RBIs on a triple as part of Linglestown’s five-run third inning. … Chris Bailor has his first Legion at bat, a ground out to first base. … Smedick, who relieved starter Weldon in the sixth inning, faced only four batters in the seventh and final inning, striking out two. … Legion will host Paxton at Koons Park on Monday, June 30, first pitch at 6 pm.

– Game notes submitted by Fran Roman

Linglestown, LP news fix for 06.26.08

A warning about local car thieves, a story about a lost cat that’s no longer lost, word from Linglestown firefighters that they need more room in their trophy case and other handy-dandy local news links are only a click away.

Keep reading >>

Hump day news links

This post was updated Thursday, 6/26 ...

CD schools … CD school board has followed through on its promise to adopt a no-tax-increase budget. The $148 million 2008-09 spending plan passed 8-1 Monday, with board member Christian Malesic casting the only "no" vote. Malesic said he was against the district taking $1.6 million from its contingency fund to avoid raising taxes. ... Lower Paxton Twp. resident Linda Dallago says in a letter-to-the-editor that actions by CD school board member Malesic and Justin McShane forced Superintendent John Scala to resign from the post.

Comcast vs. Verizon … Comcast is running TV ads that make fun of Verizon’s FiOS fiber-optic Internet service and claim the cable TV company has a larger fiber-optic network. But there’s a problem with Comcast’s propaganda – it still uses coaxial cable to connect to homes, a situation often referred to as the "last mile."

Grass mowing trends … Old-fashioned push mowers are coming back in vogue. … Mowing contest update – I’ve mowed my yard 15 times this season. The count probably will climb very slowly because my yard is starting to dry out.

Prowlers reported at two LP apartment complexes

Lower Paxton Twp. police received calls early Monday morning and again during the wee hours today about a prowler in the Colonial Park area. The calls came from two apartment complexes located within a one-block area – Brook at Colonial Park apartment complex and Beaufort Manor Apartments.

Police suggest that residents in the Colonial Park area make sure doors are secured and windows are locked with blinds and curtains closed during overnight hours, and request that residents notify police immediately if anyone experiences similar incidents.

What do you want to know about ...

the planned $4 million Lingletown square and improvement project?

As reported on this blog Tuesday, I'm hoping to do a brief video interview with a member of the Village of Linglestown Committee, the citizens group that has been assisting Lower Paxton Twp. develop a plan to improve traffic flow through historic Linglestown and give the town a facelift.

I'd like Linglestown Gazette nation to in essence do the interview. What do you want to know about the project? Please post comment or send an e-mail with your questions.

Linglestown Legion, Twilight updates

Legion competitive in 7-3 loss to Hershey

By Fran Roman
For Linglestown Gazette

Linglestown Legion traveled for a game under the lights Sunday at Hershey and jumped out to a 3-1 lead through 3 ½ innings. Hershey took control of the game by scoring four unearned runs in the fourth inning and added two more in the fifth. Legion tried to rally in the top of the seventh, but two runners were left on base.

Andrew Roman led Linglestown with two hits and two RBIs. In the field, left fielder Sam Nott gunned down a runner at the plate in the first inning.

Upcoming games ... Linglestown Legion (5-2 record, tied for second in Dauphin County Legion league) returns to action Wednesday, June 25, with an away game at Lawnton, and then will host Steelton on Thursday, June 26, at Koons Park.
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Twilight ties Penbrook at six apiece

By Steve Econ
For Linglestown Gazette

After getting down 2-0, Linglestown Twilight tied the game in the third inning on back-to-back monster home runs by Brian Zellers and Sean Frailey. The team added another run that inning to go up 3-2. In the fifth inning, Twilight tacked on three more runs on four hits.

The lead, however, was lost in the bottom of the fifth inning. Penbrook scored four runs on three hits and a Linglestown error to knot the game at 6-6. The game was called due to darkness at the end of the eighth inning.

Jim Miller went five innings on the mound for Linglestown, giving way to Brad Sanders who pitched three scoreless innings. Bryan Stovall had a good night at the plate with three hits and two RBIs.

Next home game ... Linglestown Twilight (10-3-1, first place) will host Lykens tomorrow night, Wednesday, June 25 at Koons Park. First pitch is scheduled to fly at 6 pm.

Water advisory remains in effect

Confusion over Sunday's water outage continues ... A water company official told me Monday that a boil water advisory didn't apply to the Linglestown area. Today I crack open the The Patriot-News on the Web and find a news brief that says United Water PA's advisory is still in effect for areas that include Lower Paxton Twp. Argh!!!!

Roundabouts save gas

The two roundabouts that are supposed to be constructed in Linglestown – one at the square and the other between the old and new fire stations – should result in less gas usage and reduce pollution, according to transportation experts quoted in an article published by a Bucks County newspaper.

I hope to meet in the near future with a Village of Linglestown Committee member to get an update on the village improvement project that could be put out for bid this fall.

Koons Pool back in business

A couple kids were spotted splashing around in the lap pool Monday and new signs have been posted about the daily rate (pictured). CLICK HERE for membership rates and other pool news posted on Linglestown Gazette last week.

Twilight gets back in win column

Steve Booker struck out eight and only needed 81 pitches Sunday evening in crafting a two-hitter as Linglestown Twilight downed Lykens/Wiconisco 3-1 at Koons Park.

After L/W went on top on a solo homer by Ryan Lentz in the third inning, Booker helped himself by hitting a three-run roundtripper in the bottom half of the inning to put Twilight in the lead for good.

Twilight notes … The win over L/W came on the heels of Linglestown losing a doubleheader Saturday at Valley View in Schuylkill County. Prior to the loses at VV, Linglestown had won 10 straight East Shore Twilight league games. ... Booker was named player-of-the-game for the second straight time that Linglestown TV was on hand to cover a game. Get his impressions on the game by viewing the video below. … The game was delayed an hour by a heavy rain shower. … Linglestown left fielder Brian Zellers made a nifty play in the seventh inning when he gunned down a L/W player at first base. … Twilight's next home game is Wednesday, June 25 at Koons Park, first pitch at 6 pm.

24/7 emergency line fails during water outage

Updated Monday, June 23, with link to news briefs. Also, Linglestown Gazette publisher Bill Bostic has filed a complaint with the Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission's Bureau of Consumer Services about the water company's emergency phone number ringing busy during the outage.

As you probably know, there was a major water outage in the greater Linglestown area today due to a water main break along Linglestown Road in Susquehanna Township. Gazette headquarters went dry sometime in the 7 am hour.

Dozens of attempts to get through to someone at United Water Pennsylvania's so-called emergency telephone number were unsuccessful – I got a busy signal every time. I finally heard a report on WHP 580 AM early in the 9 am hour about the outage.

With the advanced telecommunications technology available today, I’m disturbed that the water company doesn’t have a system to properly handle customer calls during a widespread outage. They should at least have a system in place to give an automated message when call volumes go through the roof that would say something like this:

We’re aware of the disruption of service that is affecting customers along Linglestown Road in Lower Paxton and Susquehanna townships. We are working to restore service as soon as possible. Work to fix the problem is under way. We will update local radio and TV stations with updates.

I guess utility monopolies don’t think about this kind of common sense stuff.
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The Patriot-News published a news release on PennLive.com Sunday at 11:10 am. The lastest info that I've seen was posted by WHTM abc27 early Monday afternoon, June 23.

BB AnswerLine: New LP leaf waste service?

Question ... Gazette reader Megan Spinney says the Lower Paxton Twp. newsletter, July/September issue, doesn’t give specific details about all Waste Management customers getting curbside leaf-waste collection under a new contract that starts July 2. What’s the story, BB?

BB answer ... Megan, your query sent me leafing through my notes to find the nitty-gritty details.

Keep reading >>

LP police seek opinions from citizens

The Lower Paxton Twp. Police Department is asking for opinions from citizens of all ages, according to an item in the township’s July-September newsletter. CLICK HERE to answer survey questions.

The survey takes five minutes or less to complete. (Add a few minutes if you submitte suggestions.) Below is the suggestion that I submitted:

There are stop signs in my neighborhood that are regularly ignored by motorists. This is a potential hazard to bicyclists and pedestrians (my neighborhood does not have sidewalks).
I suggest teaming up with citizens in my neighborhood and others with a similar situation to (1) determine whether the signage is appropriate based on current state and local transportation regulations, and to (b) develop strategies for encouraging motorists to properly observe stop signs.

In related LP news, the township recently recognized the efforts of several officers who have gone above and beyond the call of duty. One highly notable award recipient was Officer Brian Guarnieri of the Traffic Safety Unit for taking actions in conjunction with a vehicle stop on Rt. 22 that resulted in the arrest of a subject listed on the national terrorist list.

To read about more honorees, see page 3 of the township newsletter.
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– News brief submitted by Rob Nease, publisher of Harrisburg at Home

Linglestown diamond updates

Linglestown Gazette's exclusive coverage of the local amateur baseball continues with updates on a pair of teams that had winning streaks snapped, a preview of midget playoffs and an update on teener action.

Keep reading >>

Linglestown Twilight win streak rolls on

After falling behind 4-0 through two innings, Linglestown Twilight put together another last-inning rally Friday evening, extending their win streak to 16 games (10-1 league, 16-1 overall, first place in East Shore Twilight league). Twilight scratched together three runs in the top of the seventh – two on an errant throw, one on Sean Frailey’s RBI double – to knock off Lawnton 7-5.

Prior to the last-inning dramatics, Linglestown knotted the score at four by scoring a pair of runs in both the third and fourth innings.

After a shaky start, Linglestown pitcher Jason Kelly got into a good groove and went the distance to get the win in a 139-pitch outing that included nine strikeouts and five free passes.

Twilight banged out 13 hits. Sean Frailey (3 for 4; 2 doubles; 1 RBI) and center fielder Steve Booker (3 for 4, 2 doubles and a triple; 1 RBI) turned in the game’s top offensive performances, and catcher Bryan Stovall hit a towering homer over the left-field fence in the third.

The team plays a pair at Valley View today, and then returns to Koons Park on Sunday, June 22, to host Lykens at 5 pm.
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The post-game video features an interview with former pro player and CD High School grad Steve Booker.

Lower Paxton TGIF update

LP news … Representatives of TMI's owner made a “courtesy call” at this week’s meeting of the LP Board of Supervisors. ... The Candlewood Suites extended-stay motel that is under construction across from the new Mikado Japanese eatery is slated to open April 2009, according to Bhupendra Patel of MLG Enterprises. The firm operates the Best Western located next to Geo’s Country Oven. … The proposed dog park is a point of discussion over at Lower Paxton forum on PennLive.com – see thread #163, and be sure to check out #163.2 for some interesting insights.

CD schools … For speculation on why CD schools superintendent John Scola resigned, head back over to the Lower Paxton forum on PennLive.com – see thread #162. Based on a Patriot-News report, Scola most likely will make a public statement at the June 23 school board meeting. … CD track star Justin Shirk has been named the state’s top track and field athlete.

Linglestown news … The Village of Linglestown Committee is continuing its effort to persuade property owners in the historic village section to sign up for public water service. If enough people sign on the dotted line, United Water Pennsylvania will install a line through the village as part of the planned village improvement project. … On a related note, I hope to do a video interview in the near future with a committee member to get an update on the status of the project. For info about the project, click on the lable square at the bottom of this post.

Other stuff … Rob Nease, publisher of Harrisburg at Home, passed along an editorial posted on his Web site about a recent criminal sentence for a sex case handed down by Dauphin County Judget Todd Hoover.

Fun stuff for kids offered at LP parks

The Lower Paxton Twp. Parks and Recreation has started summertime activities for children at various township parks that will run through August 1. No pre-registration required – show up and register the first time a child attends.

Below is the rundown of times and places – all sessions are from 9 am to noon:

Ages 3-5
Monday and Wednesday at Kohl and Centennial Acres
Tuesday and Thursday at Koons and Brightbill

Fee: 25-cents per day per child

Ages 6-12
Monday through Friday at Lingle, Lamplight, Koons and Brightbill

Fee: $1 weekly craft fee per child

If you need more info, call the parks dept. at 657-5635.

Legion, Teener baseball update

Pair advances in Legion All-Stars tryout … Linglestown Legion players Sam Nott and Tom Healy advanced Wednesday to the Region 4 All-Stars. Fifty-six players participated in the tryout held at Manheim Twp.

The next round will feature Regions 3 and 4 All-Stars, Thursday, July 3 at Norchester.

Linglestown Legion tops Hummelstown … Linglestown took the lead for good with a seven-run fifth inning in a 9-6 win over Hummelstown. Shortstop Andrew Roman went 4-for-5 with two RBIs to lead the offense, and he added a sparkling defensive play in the fourth inning. Legion (5-1) is tied with Hummelstown for first place in the Dauphin County Legion league.

Source: Patriot-News

Teener A extends win streak … The Linglestown Teener A baseball team extended its win streak to three games and moved a game above .500 with a 6-1 victory over Dauphin. Patrick Reagan picked up the win pitching a three-hit complete game. Linglestown sluggers Jeremy Seaman, Matt Johnson, Branden Shaffer and Patrick Reagan each contributed two hits to pace the team. With the victory over Dauphin, Linglestown moves to a 5-4 record and will host Lower Swatara/Middletown this Saturday, 5 pm at Koons Park.

Linglestown Twilight squeaks by Steelton

Watch the video for a game summary, action shots and a pair of player interviews about Linglestown Twilight's stirring 4-3 victory Wednesday over Steelton.

The team sits atop the East Shore Twilight league with a 9-1 record (15-1 overall).

Game notes … Twilight started the game with an extremely short bench, forcing coach Steve Econ to put two pitchers in the lineup who normally do not play in the field. They were replaced in the third inning after a couple field players arrived late. Steve Booker batted seconds after donning his uniform. … Bryan Stovall hit a two-RBI double in the fourth inning. … Twilight scored the tying run in the 7th inning on four consecutive singles by Ken Connor, Brad Sanders, Aaron Confer and Steve Booker.

Busy times for Twilight ... The team will go on the road for a Friday game at nearby Lawnton, 6 pm first pitch, and a twin bill Saturday at Valley View, first game will start at 1 pm. The weekend ends with a home game Sunday.

Next home game … Twilight will host Lykens this Sunday, June 22, 5 pm at Koons Park at the full-sized ball field along Balthaser Street. Come out and cheer on the Harrisburg region's hottest baseball team – admission is FREE!

Hump day tidbits

Hey, park the dog … Lower Paxton officials recently got all warm and fuzzy over a proposed dog park, according to a piece by T.W. Burger in today’s Patriot-News. A commenter on PennLive’s LP forum is a bit dogged by the idea. (See thread #163.) It sounds like limited tax dollars would be needed to give our canine friends a place to hang out and compare notes on their masters.

Dial up some TV … Gazette reader and contributor Jay Mumper, who is less than satisfied with the cost of Comcast cable TV, recently asked Lower Paxton Twp. manager George Wolfe about the status of Verizon getting a local franchise for its FiOS TV service. Here’s the response he received from Mr. Wolf:

Well over a year ago, the Township, through the Capital Region Council of Governments (COG), indicated to Verizon that it was willing to negotiate a franchise agreement for television services. However, franchise negotiations begin only when a provider is ready to provide service. Verizon began negotiations with COG municipalities in May of this year. I would expect that an agreement will be in place before the end of the year. After that, it will be up to Verizon when it actually rolls out service.

Tech talk … I’m digging the new Firefox browser that was released Tuesday. It seems to work significantly faster than Internet Explorer 7.

Koons Pool inching toward opening

I talked with two Koons Pool officials Tuesday to get the lowdown on plans to open the pool this summer.

Pool board spokesman Chuck Barto gave me a nickel tour of the pool facility. Water in both pools has been treated with chemicals. The lap pool is about halfway cleaned and the diving pool, the smaller of the two pools, hasn't been touched yet.

The pool will be opened as soon as the cleaning is complete and the state health department approves the pool water as being safe for swimming. It’s possible opening day could be this weekend or sometime next week. “You’ll know we’re open when you see kids in the pool,” said Barto.

Barto has lined up enough workers to open the pool and snack bar but continues to be on the lookout for a few more lifeguards. Anyone who is certified to lifeguard and is looking for some work should e-mail Kristen Shatto, the pool manager.

Shatto told me that she has mailed membership applications to individuals and families on last year’s membership list. Prospective members can pick up a form when the pool opens, she said. Also, Kristen is willing to field questions about the upcoming swimming season via e-mail.

Membership rates are the same as last year for both renewals and new members: Family $235, Individual $155, Senior Individual $120. The day-rate for nonmembers is $7 per person.
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Pool notes … The pace of work at the pool has picked now that a couple lifeguards are able to spend time during the day cleaning the pool. If the weather stays dry today, a volunteer is supposed to do weed-whacking. … Gail Reece posted a comment under the “Koons Pool watch” blog entry (June 16) with a suggestion for the pool board about membership rates, and she volunteered to help get the word out about volunteer help needed to open the pool. ... Pictured is a lifeguard cleaning the lap pool early this afternoon.

Linglestown Legion tops Paxton in grudge match

Linglestown Legion baseball team traveled across Route 22 and picked up its fourth win in five games Saturday by a count of 6-4 against archrival Paxton – many players know each other and play either at CD or Bishop McDevitt high schools.

Keep reading >>

Dog found after 12 days running in woods

The dog that turned up missing from a Blue Meadows Farm home on June 2 was spotted and tracked down over the weekend. CLICK HERE for the story as told by Josh Barry, the dog’s owner.
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– This post is courtesy of a Q-tip.

Surveillance cam snags Sears thief

Lower Paxton Twp. police of have obtained surveillance images from an attempted retail theft last week at Sears in the Colonial Park Mall. They are seeking assistance in identifying the pictured suspect who ran away from the store when approached by store security personnel.

Anyone with information my contact Sgt. Greg Taylor at 657-5656, or call the police "Tip Line" at 635-2606 to provide information anonymously.

Monday backyard news links

CD schools … Superintendent John Scola has submitted a notice of retirement effective August 12. Anyone have an inkling why he’s calling it quits? If so, please post a comment or send an e-mail to the Gazette.

LP … Township police are requesting assistance with an investigation into a fatal, two-vehicle accident Saturday morning. … Do you think LP getting folded into a regional government with Harrisburg and other suburban communities is a good idea? At least one group does – the editorial board at The Patriot-News.

Meetings, meetings, meetings ... There is a trio of township meetings this week (links go to meeting agendas):

LP Twp. Authority, Tuesday, June 17, 5:30 pm – Linglestown pumping station and sewerage issues to be discussed.

LP Twp. Board of Supervisors, Tuesday, June 17, 7:30 pm – Linglestown sewer project bids and a financial matter related to the Linglestown square project are slated for action; Comcast cable subscribers can view a live broadcast of the meeting on channel 20.

Village of Linglestown Committee, Thursday, June 19, 7 pm at Linglestown Fire Company’s brick building – issues related to the square improvement project will be discussed.

Koons Pool watch

Pictured are two volunteers working today in the 4 pm hour to ready Koons Park pool for swimming. They appeared to be cleaning the pool walls with brushes and a vacuum system.

BB AnswerLine: Earth movers across from Mikado?

Question … I’ve received a couple inquiries about the excavation work that is under way near the intersection at N. Mountain Rd. and N. Lockwillow Ave. across from the recently opened Mikado Japanese Steak House and Sushi Bar.

BB answer … Linglestown Gazette first reported in November 2006 about a three story, 93-room extended-stay motel planned for the property that had a farm house on it when I first moved into the area in the late 1980s. Today I called Lower Paxton Township and confirmed that MLG Enterprises, Inc., the same company that runs the Best Western next to Geo’s Country Oven, is following through with its Candlewood Suites motel project.

The video below was taken today just as the excavation crew was wrapping up work for the day.


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BB AnswerLine is a free service provided by Linglestown Gazette and its subsidiary Linglestown TV.

CLICK HERE to submit a question via e-mail – please put “BB AnswerLine” in subject line.

Linglestown Twilight captures tournament title

Even if you’re not into baseball, you may appreciate that your hometown ball club is on one heck of a roll.

It took all the team could muster, and then some, for the Linglestown Twilight baseball team to come out on top of the four-day Rawlings Berkshire Showdown tournaments contested in the Reading area. Linglestown beat Baltimore Cooper 2-0 Sunday to achieve a clean sweep of six tournament games and capture the Showdown crown.

Keep reading >>

Gazette weekender

Koons Pool update … The filtration systems has been running for several days; two men were spotted working Saturday and Sunday at the pool; and a few lifeguards that worked at the pool last summer have been asked to help out again. (Photo taken Friday, June 13.)

Summertime family fun … Regal Harrisburg Stadium 14 movie theater is sponsoring a Free Family Film Festival on Tuesday and Wednesday mornings this summer. Admission is free on a first come, first served basis for movies that begin at 10 am. Hat tip to Rob Nease of Harrisburg at Home for passing along this tidbit.

Mowing update … As most of you know, a lot is riding on the way Linglestown Gazette publisher/editor BB takes care of his lawn this summer because of the Grass Mowing Contest that was launched in April. (I’m up to 14 cuts.)

I raised the deck of my mower prior to my last trip around the yard on Friday, June 13. Why? My yard is starting to dry out and having longer grass might keep the lawn greener a little longer than in past years, especially in areas that get a lot of sun.

Garden and yard guru George Weigel of The Patriot-News has more tips for summertime mowing in his This Week In The Garden column that was published Thursday, June 12. (Scroll down to section entitled "Mow smart.")

BB AnswerLine: Backyard campfires allowed?

Question … I was hoping to build a small, contained campfire in my backyard, but want to make sure this kind of burning is legal in Lower Paxton Twp. before doing so. Any help you could provide would be great. – Gazette reader Ray Adams

BB answer … Ray, you are to be applauded for checking the township burning regulations before lighting up a fire to toast marshmallows and wieners. You’re one fine American.

I called the township office and ended up talking to the police department’s fire marshal. He said backyard campfires are allowed under the township's fire code. He gave me a few guidelines for campfires:

* The fire ring should not exceed 3-feet in diameter and should be located at least 25 feet from a structure.

* Garbage and yard waste may not be burned.

* The fire needs to be attended at all times.

* The campfire site needs to have equipment within easy reach for putting out the fire in case of an emergency – garden hose, fire extinguisher, bucket of water, etc.

* Residents who build campfires need to be courteous to neighbors – fires should be extinguished if smoke could bother a neighbor due to wind or other atmospheric conditions.

On a related note, the township’s fire code forbids the use of burn barrels for getting rid of garbage and burning yard-waste piles.

If you need more info, call the Lower Paxton Twp. police department at 657-5656 and ask for the fire marshal.
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BB AnswerLine is a free service provided by Linglestown Gazette and its subsidiary Linglestown TV.

CLICK HERE to submit a question via e-mail – please put “BB AnswerLine” in subject line.

Linglestown Teener A wins pair

The Linglestown Teener A baseball team outscored Swatara 15-3 Friday and nipped Susquehanna 6-5 Saturday to up their record to 4-4.

In Friday’s game, Matt Johnson, Patrick Reagan, Jeremy Seaman and Adam Herrold each contributed a pair of hits. Cameron Funk had a strong pitching performance, holding Swatara to three runs over six innings in route to his first victory of the season.

On Saturday, Linglestown continued their winning ways led by pitcher Joey Bradley who picked up his first victory, allowing only three hits over five innings. Jeremy Seaman paced the team with a two hits.

Upcoming games … Linglestown Teener A will play two games at Koons Park this week – Dauphin on Tuesday, June 17, at 6 pm; Lower Swatara/Middletown next Saturday, June 21 at 5 pm.
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- Summary submitted by Mike Shaffer, Linglestown Baseball Association Web site director and Teener A coach

Linglestown Twilight remains undefeated in tourney

Linglestown Twilight baseball team is undefeated through four games of the Rawlings Berkshire Showdown tournament being played in the Reading area. The team will play a semifinal game Sunday morning. CLICK HERE for game summaries from Friday and Saturday.

Legion swats its way to 3rd straight win

The Linglestown Legion baseball team traveled to Dauphin on Monday, June 9, for a game on one of the hottest days of the year – game-time temperature was hovering around 95. Coach Max Smith’s batting practice routine must have had magical qualities as the team smacked 11 hits in a convincing 16-2 win, scoring at least one run in every at bat during the regulation seven-inning game.

Andrew Roman and Tom Healy had big days at the plate. Roman powered his way to a five-RBI game with a three-run homer in the second inning and a sixth-inning triple that plated two teammates. Healy rang up four RBIs off a double, a sacrifice fly and a seventh-inning solo roundtripper that coach Fran Roman described as a “no doubter.”

On the mound, Linglestown starting pitcher Kyle Weldon had a good outing, allowing only two hits over three innings. Matt Smedick relieved Weldon and pitched three innings of shutout ball, scattering three hits and striking out two. Eric Steim pitched the final inning, retiring the side in order after giving up a leadoff double.

The team is in second place in the Dauphin County Legion league with a 3-1 record, good for 6 points (2 points awarded for each win; 1 point for a tie). Hershey, Middletown and Hummelstown are tied for first place with 8 points apiece.

Next game ... Linglestown Legion plays today at Paxton. First pitch is at 5 pm.
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– Game notes submitted by Fran Roman

Linglestown youth baseball update

Below is this week's summary of Linglestown Baseball Association action ...

Teener A plays both Friday night and Saturday morning at home. The team is seeking a pair of wins to bring their record to .500.

Teener B Phillies are in first place with a record of 9 - 0 and will travel to Palmyra for a game Friday.

Teener C won three games this week by football-like scores, defeating Lower Swatara/Middletown 28 - 7, Swatara 21 - 0 and Paxton Red 22 - 6.

In Midget action, the Tigers have clinched the top seed for the playoffs and remain undefeated at 16 - 0. The Cubs, Braves and Orioles have all clinched playoff spots and are juggling for the remaining three seeds. Playoffs begin on Monday, June 23.

Wrapping thing up with Pony action, the Mets defeated the Padres
14 - 5, and the Rams shutout the Colts 4 - 0 and the Owls defeated the Padres 10 - 1.
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- Summary submitted by Mike Shaffer, Linglestown Baseball Association Web site director and Teener A coach

Linglestown Twilight starts tournament with a W

Linglestown won its first game Thursday in the Rawlings Berkshire Showdown by a score 3-1 in Reading over the very tough host team, Berkshire Red Sox. The win extended Linglestown's win streak to nine games (8-1 league, 9-1 overall).

Pete Hayden pitched well, recording a complete game. He scattered six hits and four walks.

The offense made the best of only four hits. The first run, in the first inning, came with two outs. Steve Booker doubled home Brian Zellers, who reached on a walk. Bryan Stovall singled home Scott Montgomery in the third to go up 2-0.

The team held on with some good defense behind Hayden's great effort.

Upcoming games ... Linglestown Twilight continues play in the tournament Friday with games at 6 pm and 8:30 pm in Fredericksburg at Wenger Field. Next home game at Koons Park will be Sunday, June 22, against Lykens at 5 pm.
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– Game summary submitted by Linglestown Twilight coach Steve Econ

Gazette entertainment guide

Friday’s big event …
St. Thomas Roaster located in the Linglestown square is the place to be from 8 - 10 pm for the Cotolo Boys’ Friday the 13th special musical show, great coffee and eats, no cover charge.


Saturday’s big event … If the weather cooperates, head to West Hanover Winery for its first outdoor concert this summer, 7 - 10 pm. Bring your picnic and accessories and enjoy the music for only $15 a person. You'll spend the evening tasting wine and enjoying the surroundings of the winery’s vineyard.

Monday’s big event … Irish traditional band Round the House in concert, 8 pm, Unitarian Church of Harrisburg, 1280 Clover Lane, $5 per person.

Linglestown Twilight post game show

Check out the post game show for Linglestown Twilight baseball team's 12-2 win Wednesday night over Steelton.

One more standing 'o' for the Lady Rams

Pictured are members of the CD girls' soccer team receiving the state championship last Friday at Hersheypark Stadium after nailing down the PIAA spring Class AAA soccer championship with a 1-0 victory over Central Bucks West.
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Photo credit: John Gayman

Linglestown Twilight winning streak rolls on

KOONS PARK (June 11) – Linglestown Twilight baseball team crushed Steelton 12-2 Wednesday at Koons Park to win its eighth straight (8-1 record) to remain on top of the East Shore Twilight League heap.

Brian Zellers led the team offensively with two homers that produced three RBIs. He went two-for-three with a walk and scored three runs. Scott Montgomery also hit a dinger, a solo shot down the left-field line in the fourth inning.

Josh Muscalus started his first regular season game and picked up the win in a 94-pitch outing, fanning eight batters over five and one-third innings of the seven-inning game. After Muscalus was touched for two runs in the sixth inning, Linglestown coach Steve Econ brought in reliever Jim Miller to finish out the game.

Check back for a Linglestown TV post game show that will be posted sometime Thursday if all goes as planned.

Upcoming games ... Linglestown Twilight goes on the road Thursday for a game in the Rawlings Berkshire Showdown tournament in Reading. The team's tournament games on Friday will be close to Linglestown with games at 6 pm and 8:30 pm in Fredericksburg at Wenger Field. Next home game at Koons Park will be Sunday, June 22, against Lykens at 5 pm.

BREAKING NEWS: Koons Pool could open this weekend

Koons Pool spokesman Chuck Barto told a Gazette reader today that the pool could open this weekend if chemicals can be obtained to finish preparing the water for swimming. (See comments under post entitled Hump day backyard news links.)

Another reader informed me via e-mail that Barto and a small group of volunteers have committed to opening by June 16 so learn-to-swim classes can use the pool. Membership rates are the same as last year, said the reader.

Hump day backyard news links

Here’s another in a news series of posts dedicated to keeping you in the know about all things Linglestown, Lower Paxton and CD schools …

Lower Paxton Twp. … Is LP going to the dogs? Nah, but some residents do want a dog park. … Linglestown Gazette ran a police report last week about a fatal car crash. CLICK HERE to read the tragic story about the victim. … Time for a Q-tip: Ben’s Bagel Bakery & Cafe has closed its location at the plaza along Linglestown Road that is the home of Papa John’s pizza.

CD schools … The new chief of the embattled Capital Tax Collection Bureau went before the CD school board Monday to ask them to reconsider giving the bureau the boot. The board’s likely response: You’re still fired! CLICK HERE for a summary of what took place by T.W. Burger of The Patriot-News. … Gazette congrats go out to new CD graduate Britney Kepler for being awarded a $1,000 scholarship from the CD High School Alumni Association. She is the daughter of Doug and Andrea Kepler of Linglestown, and will attend the University of Pittsburgh School of Nursing. (Source: The Patriot-News)

Koons Pool news … Chuck Barto, the contact person for Koons Pool, has submitted a formal request to Lower Paxton Twp. for financial assistance to open the pool, according to Brian Leutchford, director of the township parks and recreation department. The supervisors have not acted on the request, he said. Leutchford did not know if the pool would be opened this season. The township does not operate the pool – it leases the facility to the pool board.

If you need a place to cool off or to swim laps, consider going to nearby Devon Manor pool.

Linglestown upcoming events

Check the Twitter box in the sidebar for stuff to do in the Linglestown area – several new listings have been posted during the last 24 hours.

The box automatically scrolls through the posts, called tweets, or you can click on the arrows to scroll through them.

Linglestown Legion racks up two big wins

Linglestown Legion baseball team won a pair of home games last Thursday and Friday. CLICK HERE for game summaries that were submitted by Fran Roman, one of the team's assistant coaches.

BREAKING NEWS: Water found for Koons Pool members

Linglestown Gazette just received word that the fine Americans over at Devon Manor Swim Club, 4400 Devonshire Road, have extended an invitation to all grounded ex-Koons Pool members to swim at their pool as walk-in guests for a daily rate of $7 per person. To take advantage of this gracious offer, please tell the pool attendant that you previously enjoyed swimming pool fun at Koons Pool.

Linglestown Twilight winning streak continues

Linglestown Twilight added two more in the W column Sunday by downing Lawnton 3-2 in an early afternoon game in Lawnton, and Middletown 5-4 in the nightcap at Koons Park. After losing the season's first game, Linglestown has ripped off seven straight wins. CLICK HERE for summaries of Sunday's games by The Patriot-News.

Linglestown's next home game is Wednesday, June 11, 6 pm at Koons Park. Come on out and enjoy's America's favorite pastime for free.

The post-game show for the win over Lawnton features two player-of-the-game interviews. The second show, for the Middletown game, includes a first for Linglestown TV sports coverage and a look ahead to this week's games.

Linglestown backyard news links

Updated Tuesday, June 10 with links to clips from The Paxton Herald about the Schoffstall rezoning request discussed below under the Lower Paxton Twp. section. Also, location of parcel has been corrected.

Below is a large assortment of links to newspaper articles to help you stay up to date on local issues …

Lower Paxton Twp. … Whoa there! Sports consulting group advises CASA youth soccer group to pull back a pit on plans to buy undeveloped parkland east of Linglestown for a soccer complex. … Camp Sertoma, which is located on the slope of Blue Mountain near Linglestown, celebrates 50 years of fun. … Apartment building located off Locust Lane closed by ceiling collapse; no one hurt. … Lower Paxton Twp. resident suggests way to restore Paxton Creek, which begins near Linglestown and flows through the township. … Residents who live across from Costco along Devonshire Road are gearing up to fight a rezoning request for a 7-acre property. According to a letter-to-the-editor in The Paxton Herald, the property is owned by Martin Schoffstall Children’s Trust. Lower Paxton Planning Commission will hold a public hearing on the request this Wednesday, June 11, 7 pm at the Municipal Center, 425 Prince Street. CLICK HERE for a clip from The Paxton Herald about the public hearing, and HERE for a letter-to-the-editor about the proposed rezoning published by The Paxton Herald.

CD schools … Based on a letter-to-the-editor in today’s The Patriot-News, CD school board, as well as Lower Paxton Twp. officials, should seriously consider doing advance planning for the coming increase in electricity rates. (See second item entitled Upcoming rate hike.) … Mountain View Elementary School, located along I-81 close to N. Lockwillow Avenue, is building a walking and jogging path for students and the community to use in all sorts of weather.

CD sports … Rod Frisco, sports writer and columnist for The Patriot-News, is wowed by CD winning another state athletic championship.

Weird and Wacky … West Hanover Twp. resident has some offbeat ideas for saving fuel. … If chasing after a little white ball is your thing, check out this idea for hitting the links more often.