A long time ago in a galaxy far far away. I was introduced to part-time scribing. Back then, I was asked to provide some copy on behalf of White Deer Golf Course, and our relationship began. English and grammar were two of my least favorite subjects, and it took quite a while to come around. This is a great gig, and I have had the opportunity to share some incredible tales over the past fifteen years — much love to the small handful of fans.

I enjoy hearing the feedback, and I truly appreciate the weekly praise. I am humbled by the number of local celebrities who tune in. Your support outweighs. I do receive a random gripe from time to time. It’s cool. I don’t take it personally. But please remember that I am only a part-timer folks. I only do this for fun. I simply share my perspective and provide a little entertainment from these back pages of the Webb Weekly. I do very little research and only report on what I hear. Of course, I can stretch the truth and twist some words. That’s my MO. My perspective. I’m allowed. It’s my column boys and girls.

Let this act as my yearly disclaimer. I am only doing my best to sell some free papers. And just to clarify. Grandparents are totally welcomed at Little League games this season. You do not have to sit in your cars. I totally swung and missed at the new IMMEDIATE FAMILY ONLY guideline. I apologize for my slight misinterpretation. You do not have to use a special chair in the outfield either. That was an inside joke as well. Obviously, one person didn’t think it was funny.

I’m still a novice. But I am chucking bugs every chance I get. Switched to the dark side during COVID and haven’t touched a spin rod since. Learn something new each time out. Work and baseball are now keeping me busy. I liked it better when Mr. Trump paid me to be a stay at home dad. What a guy, but I am still calling myself a tree-hugging free spirit. Maybe next election Don.

I am very loyal to Lycoming Creek. It is where I do 95% of my kayaking and fishing. We are located in Cogan Station. Some of my favorites stretches of water are just minutes away. You can see my Jeep parked in the same spot every evening. I do most of my casting at the Delayed Harvest.

The fishing has been splendid, but some are concerned. I recently met with several other residents who are experiencing a slight problem. Over the years, I have sided with the little guys, and I am sticking up for my friends. I will not mention any names, but there is a situation close to home. It is my understanding that a big business is looking for an extension. They have been taking .900 million gallons of water from a section of Lycoming Creek since 2012.

This comes as a total surprise to the property owners. They were never told of this decision and have never been able to give feedback or express their concerns. I truly believe the withdrawal has had a negative impact on the water levels and the ecosystem of my favorite stream. This has affected everyone. From homeowners to kayakers. Fisherman and birds. The population of wild Brook and Brown trouts are depleting. I personally see a major difference in the number of smallmouth bass and crayfish. Another critter of importance is the EASTERN HELLBENDER. I wrote a story about this monster lizard, who now serves as the State of Pennsylvania’s most loved Amphibian. This stretch of water is usually filled with these mysterious critters. But I don’t see them as often. Hmm. They should be protected.

All of our aquatic resources from the water withdrawal location are in jeopardy. Reducing the flows and increasing the sediment during periods of little rainfall doesn’t help. The Susquehanna River Basin Commission has the final say. I find it very disappointing that there is no signage or no one policing the water on Lycoming Creek. Heavy truck traffic is happening all the time on Upper Powys Road. They are inflicting all kinds of damage, amounts of wear and tear, and are a major nuisance to everyone around. These trucks are strictly prohibited on this quiet mountain road. Hmm. Be careful when you are out cycling or walking the dog. There is also no visible erosion control. This outfit gets to do whatever they want. It makes absolutely no sense. DEP has even questioned these antics. I hope our local politicians like Gene Yaw and Garth Everett will return my calls. Cheers.