BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS AUGUST 19, 2024

LEWIS TOWNSHIP OFFERING SERVICES AFTER FLOODING

There are some updates if you are still dealing with the clean-up and aftermath of Tropical Storm Debby that struck hard areas of Lycoming and Tioga Counties.  According to the Sun Gazette, in Lewis Township, residents are asked to bring a list of needs to the  Trout Run Volunteer Fire Co when they come to pick up supplies and resources, and to complete a damage report complete with photos as soon as possible and email them to [email protected].  There will also be a Disaster Recovery Resources Expo today through Wednesday from noon til 8pm  at the Hepburn Township Fire Co. a shuttle will travel each day to the expo – leaving at 5:30pm from the Trout run Volunteer fire company.

NEW YORK MAN RETURNS TO PA TO FACE CHARGES

A man from New York state is facing charges related to the theft of a Ford Econoline van from a Muncy Creek Township business  in 2022.  According to the Sun Gazette, police say 39 year old John M. Abrams was arrested during the incident two years ago in Salamanca, New York after he was allegedly pointing a firearm at people, and was eventually convicted of drug charges – the stolen van from Valley Truck and Trailer Repair was discovered  .  Abrams will now answer to new felony theft charges filed last month  by state police at Montoursville.  He was arraigned last week and is free on 75 thousand dollars bail.

LICENSE PLATE REPLACEMENT EVENT IN OCTOBER

State Police at Montoursville and Representative Joe Hamm’s office are hosting a license plate replacement event for drivers with damaged, peeling, and otherwise unreadable plates this fall. Participants must hold a valid driver’s license, a current registration card, and drive the vehicle with the damaged plate to qualify for replacement. The event is slated for October 10th from 4 to 7 pm.  If you are unable to attend, apply for a replacement plate with PennDOT’s MV-46 form.  Driving with an illegible license plate can result in a fines of up to $100.

DONATIONS TO HELP CSO FOOD PANTRY

The Shamokin-based Central Susquehanna Opportunities recently received a $10,000 donation for their mobile food pantry. According to North Central PA, M&T bank made the donation in support of CSO’s mission to deliver food to neighborhoods in need. CSO’s Mobile Food Pantry enables outreach to communities in need and relies on donations and sponsors like M&T. For more information about the Mobile Food Pantry or to learn how you can support CSO’s mission, visit csocares.org or call 570-644-6575.

MAN CAUGHT IN GHILLIE SUIT TRYING TO SMUGGLE DRUGS

A Maryland man who was wearing a ghillie suit and allegedly attempting to smuggle contraband into the prison was caught trespassing on the grounds of the Federal Correctional Institution in Lewisburg Wednesday.  According to the News Item, 36 year old James Hampton-Smith from Aberdeen, Maryland faces charges after being caught trying to sneak drugs into the facility. Hampton-Smith was identified and arraigned on charges of felony possession of a controlled substance and criminal trespass, along with misdemeanor counts of possession of drug paraphernalia and others.

SERVICES AVAILABLE IN TROUT RUN AFTER FLOODING

Hot meals are still available daily at the Trout Run Volunteer fire department for those still working to recover from the aftermath of Tropical Storm Debby August 9th.  According to the Sub Gazette, refrigerated and dry food items, bottled water, ice, and other supplies are also available.  There are also Restrooms, showers, and a freshwater station located next to the Trout Run Volunteer Fire Company Command Post between the fire hall and the Trout Run Travel Plaza.  Laundry facilities are available at Camp Susque by arrangement, or pick up vouchers to use at Brite Laundry Center in Williamsport at the Command Post.  Updates are posted regularly on the fire company and Township Facebook pages.

SOLAR COMPANY MUST PROVE NO GLARE

A Mechanicsburg company that proposed the construction of a solar farm in Pennsdale now is expected to meet glare requirements. According to the Sun Gazette, Solar Renewable Energy has to prove the glare from their solar farm has no adverse effect on adjacent buildings. This legislation was filed after landowners in the area sent an appeal to the county for the property that borders Quaker Church Road close to Interstate 180. Solar Renewable Energy has met all other special requirements from the township and the plans to construct the solar farm are still in consideration.

GIRL SCOUT IN THE HEART OF PA FROM LYCOMING COUNTY HONORED

A Lycoming County member of Girl Scouts in the Heart of Pennsylvania has earned the highest award in Girl Scouting, the Girl Scout Gold Award for 2025.  According to a news release, Brylea Starr worked to provide amenities for homeless people at a Northcentral PA YWCA shelter, creating a safe playroom for children and a relaxation room for adults.  The Gold Award helps a Girl Scout learn how to create sustainable change for a community or world issue, and in addition, for those interested in serving, they are able to enlist at a higher pay grade when they join the military.

SPORTS

Little League World Series
Game 20 resumed @ 10am this morning @ Volunteer
Caribbean defeated Australia 11-0
Japan vs Latin America  1pm Volunteer
Mountain Vs West  3pm Lamade
Asia-Pacific vs Cuba  5pm Volunteer
Southeast vs Southwest  7pm  Lamade

MLB Draft League
Mahoning Valley Scrappers  6  Williamsport 4
Cutters are off tonight b ut head to Frederick to start a 3-game series Tuesday night.
They’re back home Friday August 23 to host the State College Spikes  6:35pm first pitch

MLB
Brewers  2 Guardians  0       
Marlins  3            Mets  2
Orioles  4             Red Sox  2
Mariners  10         Pirates  3
Nationals  6          Phillies  4
Little League Classic Journey Bank Ballpark/Historic Bowman Field
Tigers  3               Yankees 2  /10 innings
MLB Tonight
Orioles  vs Mets  7:10pm ESPN+
Pirates  vs Rangers  8:05pm
Red Sox vs Astros  8:10pm
Mariners vs Dodgers 10:10pm

NASCAR Sunday
NASCAR suspended the FireKeepers 400 until 11am this morning, after the race was interrupted by rain.
NASCAR NEWS
Bowman Gray Stadium will Winston-Salem, North Carolina will be the location to host The Clash on Feb. 2  – This will be a NASCAR race in that location for the first time since 1971.  The Clash will move from the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum after a three-year stay on the west coast

BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS AUGUST 9, 2024

STORM BRINGS FLOODING AND TORNADO WATCH

It’s a flash flood, food and tornado watch today thanks to Tropical Storm Debby that is moving past us.  According to PennDOT, there is a speed restriction to 55 mph on I-80 due to flood conditions on the interstate between US 15 North – heading west toward US 219 in Dubois and Brockway.  South Williamsport has closed some thoroughfares along West Southern Avenue this morning – according to scanner reports at least at Baird and Hill Streets   Local municipalities are urging residents in low-lying areas to  be aware of rising water and to evacuate if necessary.

FATAL CRASH IN BUFFALO TOWNSHIP WEDNESDAY

A fatal crash between a minivan and a tractor-trailer closed an area of Route 11/15 in Buffalo Township Wednesday morning.  Pennsylvania State Police say a person in the minivan was killed in the accident that occurred around 10:30 a.m. Wednesday morning, but didn’t say if the deceased was a driver or passenger.  According to PennDOT the crash caused a vehicle fire and the entrapment of one or more individuals inside. Route 11/15 Northbound remained closed until about 5:30 Wednesday afternoon as officials cleaned up and investigated the wreck.

ARREST FOR MAN WHO SOLD DRUGS TO INFORMANT

A Williamsport man was arrested after selling methamphetamine to a confidential informant with the Lycoming County Narcotics Enforcement Unit in July.  According to North Central PA dot com, 30 year old Anthony William Stockman was also accused of using the United States Postal Service to transport and sell other drugs including fentanyl, from his home in Williamsport.  Detectives said when a search was conducted at Stockman’s home, they found about 100 grams of meth.  He is being charged with four counts of possession with intent to deliver a controlled substance and criminal attempt at delivery of a controlled substance.  Stockman is in the Lycoming County Prison in lieu of  $250,000 monetary bail.

FUNDS FOR MOUNTAIN BIKE PARK IN CITY

Funds were approved this week during the Lycoming County Commissioners meeting that will go toward a mountain bike skills park in Williamsport.  According to the Sun Gazette, 250 thousand dollars of American Rescue Plan Funds will go toward the recreational facility in Shaw Park which will also get help from DCNR for a total of 500 thousand for the project.  Planning and Community Development officials say the grant contract lays out a plan for the city and county to work together with a monitoring agreement.

MUNICIPALITIES WATCHING CREEK LEVELS

With Tropical Storm Debbie causing a flash flood, flood and to place this morning, some local municipalities are preparing for a worst case scenario for our area – the potential for 6 to 7 inches of rain.  According to the Hepburn Township Volunteer fire company emergency management coordinator, they are watching creek levels and will continue to update their Facebook page with storm information,.  They can also provide shelter for those who must evacuate in the case of flooding at their home.  In addition the Red Cross is on stand-by and will assist anyone in need.  Creek levels are listed at Lyco dot org under the flood ready tab.

NURSING HOME ADMIN CHARGED FOR NOT REPORTING ABUSE

An administrator at a Milton nursing home is being charged for allegedly failing to report a sexual assault at the facility and hiding information from police.  According to North Central PA dot com, 63 year old Lori Lee Duron of Sunbury was the administrator at Broadway Manor Personal Care Facility, where a resident 60 year old Mark Edwin Snyder, – who is a convicted sex offender, was found to have assaulted other residents. A staff member called police to report an incident in June and,  police responded and took him into custody, charging Snyder with misdemeanor indecent and simple assault.   Police say Duron received text messages from staff about the incident but when she showed them to law enforcement, it was clear some messages had been deleted and that forms had allegedly been falsified.  Both Snyder and Duron will be in court for preliminary hearings on August 21st.

TALK ON SPECIAL NEEDS’ TRANSITIONS AND RIGHTS AT YMCA

The YMCA is hosting a parent night as part of the YMCA’s Superstar program with guest speaker Ned Whitehead, a special education and disability advocate with Vision for Equality on Wednesday, Aug. 14 at 6 p.m. The presentations addresses special education questions, rights, and regulations with time for Q and A from parents and guardians. The program will be on the first floor community room at the Williamsport YMCA. Anyone with questions is asked to contact Diana Logan at [email protected].

BENTON WRESTLER COMPETING AT THE OLYMPICS IN PARIS

Zain Retherford of Benton is representing the USA at the Paris Olympics this weekend.  Retherford, who graduated from Benton High School and wrestled for his alma mater, Penn State, qualified for the Olympics after winning the U.S. Team Trials in April.  He later won a bronze medal at the World Olympic Qualifier in Istanbul, Turkey in May. According to recent interviews, Retherford attributes his strength in wrestling to the hard work he did as a kid on a pumpkin farm.  Hewill be wrestling freestyle at 65kg  tomorrow and Sunday in Paris. Since the year 2000, the U.S. has only won three medals in the 65kg weight class.

SPORTS

Little League Mid-Atlantic Regional Tournament
Pa’s Council Rock Newtown Little League vs Washington DC’s Capitol Hill League  10am, Bristol CT
Winner advances to the Little League World Series
MLB Draft League
Williamsport Crosscutters 5           WV Black Bears 4 – tied the 2-game series 1-1
MLB Draft League Tonight
First of a three game series starts tonight – Crosscutters vs Trenton Thunder 6:35pm first pitch

MLB
Giants 9         Nationals 5
Padres 7         Pirates  6
Mets  9           Rockies  1
Angels 9         Yankee 4
Blue Jays  7  Orioles  6
Phillies  6       D’Backs 4
MLB Tonight
Angels vs Nationals 6:45pm
Orioles  vs Rays  6:50pm
Rangers  vs Yankees  7:05
Phillies vs D’Backs  9:40pm
Mets  vs Mariners  10:10pm
Pirates  vs Dodgers  10:10pm

NASCAR Sunday
Cookout 400 Richmond Motor Speedway
5pm pre-Race/6pm Green Flag Racing
Twin Valley’s Talk Radio Network/ WILQ’s HD3
NASCAR’s Bristol Motor Speedway will host a 2025 MLB regular season game between the Atlanta Braves and Cincinnati Reds.  An official announcement is expected today.

Olympics News
Men’s Basketball
*Team USA defeated Serbia 95-91 in a come from behind rally when they were 17 points down. 
*LeBron James delivered only the fourth triple-double in Olympic history with 16 points, 12 rebounds and 10 assists. 
*Steph Curry scored 36 points, making 9-of-14 3-pointers and two free throws that sealed their victory
*Team USA will face France on Saturday in a rematch of the 2021 Olympic final.
Women’s Track
*USA’s Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone  once again broke her own world record in the 400-meter hurdles in 50.37 seconds last night to defend her Olympic title and earning a gold medal .
*McLaughlin-Levrone had set the old record, 50.65 seconds, on June 30 at the U.S. Olympic trials

BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS AUGUST 8, 2024

ONE CLINTON TOWNSHIP CRASH VICTIM DIES FROM INJURIES

The Lycoming County Coroner has released new details about the crash in Clinton Township  Monday night that took the life of one victim after he died from his injuries while at the ICU.  According to the Pennsylvania State Police 57 year old James Engel and his wife, 55 year old Jennifer  of Old Lycoming Township were riding a motorcycle on Route 15 Monday night at about 9:15 when 61 year old Glenn Wirth of Montgomery pulled out from Pinchtown Road and collided with them. Both Engle’s, who were wearing helmets, were transported to UPMC Williamsport.  According to the Coroner, Engle passed away 1:30 am Tuesday from blunt force trauma and his wife remains in critical condition.  Wirth was treated for minor injuries at Evangelical.

ANOTHER ACCIDENT ON THE ROUTE 15 SPUR

Another tractor trailer accident took out the Route 15 spur and closed the highway for several hours yesterday.  According to PennDOT, the accident that closed the Route 15 southbound ramp to Interstate 180 road around 7am, reopened just before 2pm yesterday.  According ot the Sun Gazette, the driver 56 year old Scott Case of Troy, PA was discovered to have only minor injuries after he was helped from the wreckage by police and witnesses and transported to UPMC Williamsport.  Case was hauling milk in the tanker,  and took  out another 150 feet of guardrail in the crash.

JUVENILES WARNED FOR RIDING BIKES INSIDE STORES

Several juveniles were detained by police after they were caught riding their bicycles in two Old Lycoming Township grocery stores August 6th.  According to the Sun Gazette, police were alerted to 5 juvenile males in Weis and Aldi’s on Lycoming Creek Road  who were causing a disturbance by being loud and riding inside the stores, and were told this wasn’t the first time they had done this, and had been banned from the location.  When police talked with the boys at the store, they were each identified and their parents were called to pick them up. They warned the group with a trespassing charge if they were caught doing it again.

NATIONAL GUARD OPEN HOUSE SATURDAY

An open house by the National Guard will be held outside of the Williamsport Armed Forces Reserve Center at 1307 Grove Street in Williamsport this Saturday, August 10th, from 11am to 3pm , featuring  over 40 vendors in support of the Guard as well as opportunities to meet and take photos with those in new military uniforms. There will also be tours of a UH 60 Blackhawk helicopter, a rock climbing tower and Rescue Pets Serving Vets will be there with dogs to adopt. The event will allow the community to build ties with soldiers, local authorities, and the businesses that support our military.

HOMELESS WOMAN ASSAULT FORMER BOYFRIEND

A woman who police say is homeless is in custody today after she broke into her former boyfriend’s home Monday in Williamsport and assaulted him.  According to the Sun Gazette, police say 29 year old Ashayla Minus entered the home at 700 Penn Street and began assaulting the victim while another adult who was present removed two children from the scene to protect them.  Minus has been charged with felony burglary, trespassing, simple assault and two counts of reckless endangerment.  She’s being held in Lycoming County Prison in lieu of $15,000 bail.

WOMAN FOUND WITH DRUGS DURING STRIP SEARCH

A Williamsport woman was found to have drugs in her hair scrunchie during a strip search at the Lycoming County Prison.  According to the Sun Gazette, 38 year old Roseanna Crystal Girardi was found to have fentanyl and cocaine hidden in her hair tie after her arrest for selling fentanyl and methamphetamine. Girardi is now being charged with second-degree felony contraband and controlled substance. She remains incarcerated at the Lycoming County Prison after her most recent arraignment.

JERSEY SHORE TO DECIDE ABOUT CLOSURES AT SALLADASBURG

A public hearing Monday at Jersey Shore High School Monday about whether to close Salladasburg Elementary School, had a majority of those at the meeting against the closure. According to North Central PA dot com, the concern from the public comment was about larger class sizes, longer commutes, and learning loss for the students.  Superintendent Dr. Brian Ulmer presented facts about the proposed closure and background of the district’s finances.  The board President Michelle Stemler said there will be six more board meetings open for additional public comments regarding the school closure, and that the hearing from August 5th is available online.

HYGEINE PRODUCTS FOR STUDENTS AT NORRY THIS YEAR

Northumberland County school students are the recipients of over 12,000 hygiene products that have been packed up by the non-profit Central Susquehanna Opportunities.  According to the Daily Item, CSO received a 200 thousand dollar grant from Community Care for Behavioral Health through a partnership with the county and spearheaded this inaugural project.  Each bag, sorted for male and female students contains 20 dollars worth of items that include toothbrushes and toothpaste, shampoo, soap and deodorant as well as laundry products. Giant Supermarkets helped CSO buy the products in bulk.  The bags will be given to the students when they return to school.

SPORTS

MLB Draft League
WV Black Bears 8         Williamsport Crosscutters  1
Cutters will try and tie it up during Game 2 tonight at Journey Bank Ballpark @ Historic Bowman Field 6:35pm first pitch.

MLB
Game1 D’Backs  7        Guardians 3
Game2 D’Backs  5        Guardians  3
Game 1 Yankees 5         Angels  2
Game2  Angels  8          Yankees  2

Padres  9     Pirates  8
Giants  7     Nationals  4
Mets  5       Rockies  3
Phillies  9    Dodgers  4


OLYMPICS
Women’s Basketball
The United States women’s basketball team extended their Olympic winning streak to 59 games with a quarterfinal win over Nigeria yesterday.
Men’s Track
* Quincy Hall sprinted from far behind in the 400 meters to beat Britain’s Matthew Hudson-Smith by 4 tenths of a second — to capture the gold medal.
* Hall dropped to the track to do snow angels to celebrate.
Women’s Wrestling
*American Sarah Hildebrandt  won the 50-kilogram women’s category Wednesday, defeating Cuba’s opponent 3-0 in the championship match to become the fourth U.S. woman to win a gold medal.
Men’s Weightlifting
*20 year old American Hampton Morris won the Olympic bronze medal -the first U.S. men’s weightlifter to take home a medal of any color at the Games in four decades.
*Morris follows Mario Martinez and Guy Carlton from Los Angeles in 1984 as the most recent American men to medal at the Olympics.
Olympic Schedule Today
American sprinter Noah Lyles, after winning gold in the 100-meter dash in a dramatic photo finish,  is set to compete in the 200-meter final today
5 p.m. ET  Water Polo – Women’s Semifinal: Australia vs. USA
6 p.m. ET Volleyball – Women’s Semifinal: Brazil vs. USA
11 p.m. ET Water Polo – Women’s Semifinal: Australia vs. USA

Olympic Medal Count
The U.S. leads the overall medal count with 94 — 27 gold, 35 silver and 32 bronze.
Team USA also leads the gold medal count, with two more than China.
1. USA — 94 (27 gold, 35 silver, 32 bronze)
2. China — 65 (25 gold, 23 silver, 17 bronze)
3. France — 51 (13 gold, 17 silver, 21 bronze)

BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS AUGUST 7, 2024

MONDAY NIGHT ACCIDENT IN CLINTON TOWNSHIP INJURES THREE

The accident that closed down Route 15 in Clinton Township Monday night injured three people, two of them seriously.  According to the Sun Gazette, two people on a motorcycle were heading north on Route 15 at about 9:15pm when a truck pulled out from Pinchtown Road to go south and the two vehicles collided.  The cyclists – who were wearing helmets – were thrown from the bike and were seriously injured and township first responders took them to UPMC Williamsport.  The truck driver suffered minor injuries, and was treated at Evangelical Community Hospital.  A state police investigation into the accident continues and the identities of the injured have not yet been released.  Route 15 from Route 54 to Route 44 reopened after about 3 hours, early Tuesday.

LAIRDSVILLE MAN ARRESTED FOR ATTEMPTED KIDNAPPING

PA State Troopers arrested a Lairdsville man with a PFA against him after he attempted to kidnap the children of the woman who lived at a home on Greg Run Road in Wolf Township July 15th.  According to the Sun Gazette, 22 year old Austin Wayne White broke into the home and allegedly tried to lure her children from the property.  Upon discovery, he assaulted the woman’s boyfriend and fled before police located him later and took him into custody.  White waived his preliminary hearing but has been charged with felony attempted kidnapping, burglary, trespassing and other misdemeanors. He is in Lycoming County Prison on no bail.

LANE SHIFTS FOR BRIDGE PROJECT ON I-80

Expect lane shifts starting today on Interstate 80 eastbound between the Route 15 interchange in Union County and the Interstate 180 interchange in Northumberland County. Accordin got PennDOT, a contractor will work today and tomorrow between 4am and 6pm to complete the lane shifts for a bridge preservation project over the West Branch Susquehanna River in Union and Northumberland counties.  Check 511pa dot com for road conditions  24/7.

HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS INVITED TO EARN COLLEGE CREDIT

Lycoming College invites 11th and 12th grade students from our area public high schools to be a part of their Early Warrior Dual Enrollment program, allowing them to earn college credits while they are stiil enrolled in High School.  The program allows high school juniors and seniors to earn college credits and get a jumpstart on their college careers, and save money on the total cost of a college degree.  Email [email protected] for more information.  The enrollment deadline is August 15th.

TWO ARRESTED FOR FIREARMS AFTER BURGLARY INVESTIGATION

Two people who allegedly stole a bicycle in Williamsport Sunday, were later both arrested for illegal firearm possession after police investigated.  According to the Sun Gazette, court records say 18 year old Jamir Lewis from Montgomery was seen on surveillance footage taking the bike at about 1pm from the 1500 block of Scott Street.  Officers later saw Lewis walking with friends along Memorial Avenue and as they questioned him about the theft, he passed two sweatshirts to 21 year old Nyreese Turner in a suspicious manner.  When officers checked the sweatshirts there was a gun with an obliterated serial number in the pocket.  Lewis and Turner were both arrested on felony charges of possession of a firearm with an altered serial number and carrying a firearm without a license.  Turner also was charged with an additional felony of a convicted felon not to possess a firearm.  They were both taken to the Lycoming County Prison in lieu of 50 thousand dollars bail.

SUNBURY CONVENIENCE STORE SHOOTER WANTS A NEW TRIAL

Ajani Munsch-Ousha Uhuru, the man sentenced to 15 years in prison for shooting 30 year old Kareem Jakes in a Sunbury convenience store in May of 2022, has asked for a new trial.  According to North Central PA dot com, Uhuru, who is serving his sentence at SCI Smithfield, was acquitted of first-degree murder and felony aggravated assault, but was convicted of guilty of misdemeanor simple assault, possession of an instrument of crime with intent, and recklessly endangering another person.  He argues that his conviction is against the weight of the evidence, or that the verdict wasn’t supported by the evidence presented at trial.  The court has not ruled on his motion.

POLICE SEEK INFORMATION ABOUT HIT AND RUN CRASH

There are few details released about the circumstances surrounding a hit and run crash that happened early Tuesday, but police are seeking the driver who fled on foot from the accident.  According to the Sun Gazette, there was an accident near the first block of Grimesville Road in Old Lycoming Township around 12:10am Tuesday morning in which a 2017 Hyundai Sonata hit a utility pole.  Lycoming Regional police are asking for help, if you have information call 570-433-4360.

PENN STATE PIG ROAST AT NEW BERLIN LEGION

The New Berlin American Legion will host the Greater Susquehanna Valley Penn State Chapter’s 44th annual pig roast on August 25th.  During the annual event that is open to the public, the chapter awards three one thousand dollar scholarships to students who are planning on attending Penn State.  There is also a raffle for chances to win PSU football season tickets.  Expect to see the Nittany Lion and the Penn State cheerleaders.  The event begins at noon Sunday, August 25th, and participants can make a reservation at gsvpsc.com or pay at the door.

SPORTS

Little League Pre-World Series
There have been two dominant wins so far for Pennsylvania as they took care of business again in the Little League Mid-Atlantic tournament Tuesday, beating Maryland, 11-1 in four innings. The team from Council Rock Newtown, play again Friday in Connecticut for the regional title and a spot in the Little League World Series.
MLB Draft League
Tuesday night’s Williamsport Crosscutters game against the West Virginia Black Bears has been canceled due to rain
Williamsport will open their now two-game series against the West Virginia Black Bears tonight at Journey Bank Ballpark at Historic Bowman Field. (WILQ – Don’t miss Boomer’s Birthday Celebration tonight with the Q Rooster) 635pm first pitch.

MLB
Padres 6  Pirates  0
Nationals 11  Giants  5
Blue Jays  5  Orioles 2
Rockies  6  Mets  3
Phillies  6  Dodgers  2
Yankees vs Angels cancelled due to rain
MLB Today
Angels vs Yankees  4:05pm/7:05pm
Padres vs Pirates  6:40pm
Giants vs Nationals 6:45pm
Orioles vs Blue Jays 7:07pm
Mets vs Rockies  8:40pm
Phillies vs Dodgers 10:10pm

Olympics News
Men’s Basketball
Team USA men’s basketball advanced from the quarterfinals Tuesday at the 2024 Paris Games with a 122-87 drubbing of Brazil. The Americans will face Serbia in the semifinal round to continue their quest for a fifth straight gold medal.
Women’s Basketball
The United States women’s basketball team can extend their Olympic winning streak to 59 games with a quarterfinal win against Nigeria Wednesday.
Team USA Track
Two Americans — Gabby Thomas and Brittany Brown — finished first and third, respectively, in the women’s 200-meter final.
US Women’s Volleyball
The reigning Olympic champion U.S. women’s volleyball team posted a straight-set victory against Poland . The semifinals are Thursday with powerhouse Brazil, 
Women’s Wrestling
20 year old American wrestler Amit Elor  defeated her opponent from Kyrgyzstan 3-0 yesterday  in the 68-kilogram final. She is the youngest Olympic wrestling gold medalist in U.S. history.

BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS AUGUST 6, 2024

ALLENWOOD INMATE CAUGHT WITH CONTRABAND, WEAPON

An Allenwood inmate who was found with a weapon and controlled substances while incarcerated, was indicted by a federal grand jury July 30th.  According to the US Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania said 48 year old Thomas Burton of New York City was found by Officers to have a homemade shank and synthetic marijuana on June 19 – both felony carry more years in prison, probationary periods and fines.  The matter was investigated by the FBI.

MAN CHARGED WITH CRUELTY TO ANIMALS FOR NEGLECTING DOG

A man from Shamokin has been charged with two felony charges of aggravated cruelty to animals after a humane officer investigated a complaint about a dog had been left outside of a home on East Commerce Street earlier this year.  According to North Central PA dot com, officials say 58 year old John Joseph Jurevicz failed to provide care for one of three dogs in the home and the Chow Chow named “Timber”  required euthanization after the man surrendered the dog was examined by a veterinarian who said “Timber” severely emaciated and had a large infected mass on him – he was put down May 24th.  Jurevicz has a preliminary hearing August 13th.

FREE BREAKFAST AND LUNCHES AT MIFFLINBURG SCHOOLS

There will be free breakfast and lunch again this year for the Mifflinburg Area School District when the 2024-25 school year starts August 21st. According to the Daily Item, last year the school served the district served 33,669 breakfast meals and 98,814 lunch meals by participating in the Community Eligibility Provision program.   The Healthy, Hunger-Free Kids Act of 2010 is a reimbursement option for eligible schools that wish to offer free meals to all children.. The first day of school for Mifflinburg Area is August 21st.

ADAPTIVE KAYAK LAUNCH IN FLEETWOOD

An adaptive kayak launch has been installed at Lake Chillisquaque in Fleetwood, Pennsylvania thanks to the Middle Susquehanna Riverkeeper Association and Montour Area Recreation Commission who collaborated in the project.  According to the Sun Gazette, the BoardSafe Adaptive Kayak Launch will allow people who may have physical limitations or emotional fears to access the lake by using a special chute and bench system that cradle a kayak or canoe allowing people to engage with our resources in ways they couldn’t before.  Specific programs will be offered in the near future involving the kayak launch, watch vernalschool.org for information.

SUNBURY SHOOTER IN FATAL CASE, WILL FACE TRIAL NEXT WEEK

The man accused of the death of 33-year-old Joseph Rice, of Sunbury will be on trial next week.  According to the Daily Item, Easton was in court Monday vie video conference for his criminal motion hearing, as the court is requesting information about a few issues with the case.  Northumberland County Judge Michael Toomey says the defense has until the end of the week to submit briefs about lingering issues and to decide whether the jury should be instructed about a self-defense claim in the shooting that happened in September 2022 on Third Street and Raspberry Avenue in Sunbury. Easton has been incarcerated without bail at Centre County Correctional Facility in Bellefonte.

MILTON MAN CHARGED WITH BURGLARY

A man from Milton is being charged with felony burglary and criminal trespassing as well as six misdemeanors in connection with the alleged burglary. According to the Daily Item, police say 26 year old Tyler James Bean was seen on security cameras in the vicinity of the apartment that had been burglarized July 7th.  Police were called to the Mahoning Street residence where residents found 18 karat gold necklace and 14 karat gold earrings missing after the suspect broke in the back door to the home.

GRANT FOR FUTURE MUNCY PICKLEBALL COURT

A grant has been approved by the Muncy Creek Township Supervisors from the First Community Foundation Partnership of Pennsylvania for use as part of their Keiss (keese) Memorial Park Pickleball Court Project.  According to a news release, over 40 thousand dollars from the Waldron Memorial Fund will be used to keep up with outdoor recreation trends by adding a pickleball court to the grounds.  The park already features baseball fields, basketball courts, tennis courts, a sand volleyball court and more.  Keiss Park located at 575 PA-442 just outside of Muncy and directly across from the Muncy Creek Township Municipal Building.

PA GUARD TO DEPLOY SOON TO KUWAIT AND JORDAN

The Pennsylvania National Guard’s 213th Personnel Company are preparing for deployment.  According to PennLive, 50 soldiers will head to Kuwait and Jordan over the next few months, where they’ll focus on assisting with postal operations and personnel accountability. There was a send-off ceremony Sunday morning at Fort Indiantown Gap in Lebanon County. This unit is a subordinate of the Pennsylvania National Guard’s 213th Regional Support Group.

SPORTS

MLB Draft League
Williamsport returns home comes home tonight for Game 1 of 3 vs the West Virginia Black Bears 6:35 pm first pitch. 
MLB
D’backs  7            Guardians 6
Mets  6       Cardinals  0
Giants  4     Nationals  1
Dodgers  5            Phillies 3
MLB Tonight
Padres vs Pirates  6:40pm
Giants  vs Nationals  6:45pm
Angels  vs NY Yankees  7:05pm
Orioles  vs Blue Jays  7:07pm
Mets vs Rockies 8:40pm
Phillies vs Dodgers  10:10pm

OLYMPICS Today
2:35 p.m. ET Water Polo – Women’s Quarterfinal: Hungary vs USA
3:15 p.m. ET Basketball – Men’s Quarterfinal: Brazil vs USA
4 p.m. ET Beach Volleyball – Women’s Quarterfinal: USA vs Switzerland

Olympics News
US Women’s Gymnastics
* American gymnast Simone Biles earned silver in the floor exercise finals yesterday — her fourth medal in Paris and 11th Olympic medal overall — after a routine that included a couple of costly steps out of bounds.
*Brazil’s Rebeca Andrade became the first gymnast to beat Biles in a floor final in a major international competition, with a score of 14.166 just ahead of Biles at 14.133.
*Biles’ overall medal total (including seven gold, two silver, two bronze) ties Czechoslovakia’s Vera Caslavska for the second most by a female gymnast in Olympic history.
Men’s Track
American Noah Lyles won the 200- meter final in the final heat of the night in 20.19 seconds. He now advances to Wednesday night’s semifinals.
Surfing
French Polynesian Kauli Vaast won the gold medal in men’s surfing for France while Caroline Marks from the United States won the women’s surfing gold medal on Monday at the Paris Olympics in Tahiti.

BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS AUGUST 1, 2024

THREE TEENS ARRESTED FOR ROBBERY AND ASSAULT

Three teenagers were charged with robbing and assaulting another teen in Williamsport Monday and were taken into custody.  According to the Sun Gazette, two 19 year olds, Zachary Trivelpiece and Conner Gaul along with a 16 year old juvenile were accused of attacking the victim at the 1300 block of Park avenue at 5:30am Monday and he was treated at UPMC for injuries.  Trivelpiece and Gaul were arraigned on felony robbery and simple assault, Gaul faces additional charges and remains incarcerated in lieu of 25 thousand dollars bail.  Trivelpiece posted bail and the 16 year old was released with an ankle monitor awaiting a hearing in juvenile court, but police say he cut off the monitor by Wednesday morning.

WILLIAMSPORT MAN SHOOTS TOWARD WIFE INSIDE CAR

A man from Williamsport, PA, is facing charges of attempted homicide. According to WNEP, Timothy Allen Wilson allegedly pointed a gun at his wife recently while she was driving in the city, with their two-year-old son in the back seat. The shot went through the back windshield, narrowly missing their child. No one was hurt in the incident. Wilson is currently in custody in Lycoming County Prison.

PUBLIC HEARING ABOUT SOLAR PANELS IN TURBOTVILLE

The Turbotville Borough Council has scheduled a public hearing so that they can consider the installation of 59,000 solar panels on 79 acres of land shared by   Turbotville Borough and Lewis Township.  According to the Daily Item, Susquehanna Solar has applied for a conditional use application for use of the property that is within Turbotville borough and the industrial zoning district of Lewis Township.  They expect about 20 jobs to be created with the project.  The public is invited  6:30pm August 22nd at the Turbotville Borough Building at 267 Broadway Street.

CAT VIDEO FEST THIS WEEKEND AT THE DISTRICT

There will be a lot of cat videos to see at the District Cinema at Lycoming Valley this weekend during the Cat Video Fest.  According to North Central PA dot com, at 12:30 Saturday and Sunday, a 75 minute compilation reel of the latest and best cat videos culled from countless hours of unique submissions will be shown here in Lycoming County after Oscilloscope movie distribution company distributed the fundraising event across the country.  District Cinema is partnering with the Lycoming County SPCA and Lycoming Animal Protection Society (LAPS) to share a portion of the proceeds along with Heidi’s Furry Friends Furry Friends Rescue, Inc.  Get tickets at the door or online at hedistrict.dipsontheatres.com.

FATAL MOTORCYCLE CRASH ON ROUTE 44

A man from Bellefonte died in a motorcycle crash Saturday July 20th on State Route 44 in Potter County.  According to North Central Pa dot com, State police say 59 year old Anthony M. Deonna was traveling on Pine Hill Road around 2:45pm on  a 2024 Ducati Hypermotard and failed to negotiate a curve west of Rausch Road. Police say Deonna struck a few rock protrusions before the motorcycle went airborne, landed in the road, and skidded about 17 feet on its side. 

NO NEW TRIAL FOR MOTHER OF ARABELLA PARKER

The woman convicted of voluntary manslaughter and aggravated assault over the death of her daughter, 3 year old Arabella Parker, has been denied a new trial.  According to the Daily Item, Samantha Delcamp’s sentence of 12 to 25 years in state prison is official and will stand. The 30 year old woman from Trevorton, and her boyfriend Jarred Burgess were both convicted by separate juries for their roles in the little girl’s death. Burgess was sentenced by Northumberland County Senior Judge Charles Saylor to no less than 24 years to 50 years in state prison.  Saylor’s July 26th ruling in Delcamp’s case was upheld by the state Superior Court, even though she filed 10 various issues saying the court erred throughout her trial.

TRACTOR PULL GUIDELINES AT UNION COUNTY FAIR THIS YEAR

The 99th Union County West End Fair starts Sunday and there are new tractor pull guidelines in place after a Johnstown woman lost her life last August 11th  by being struck by a piece of machinery that broke off a tractor and hit her in the stands.  According to the Daily Item, Fair President Dennis Boop said new safety features must be followed this weekend for anyone participating in the tractor pulls over the 7-day fair in Laurelton.  Fair officials will require tractor to have a cover, placed over its turbo and exhaust housing with a cross or a star bolt in place on the backside to keep everything inside the housing. The Garden Tractor Pull is on Sunday and the Kiddie Pedal Pull is on Monday – get the full schedule and Fair information at ucwef.com.

CAT RESCUE EVENT THIS MONTH IN LEWISBURG

A Lewisburg cat rescue non-profit and a pet friendly café are holding their 5th annual Nine Miles for Nine Lives Fitness Challenge to raise money for cats in the Susquehanna Valley.  According to North Central PA dot com, Cherished Cats Rescue Alliance and Lewisburg’s cat café, The Scratching Post have opened the 25 dollar registration for participants to help raise funds by walking or running 9 miles in August; either all at once or broken into stages.  The funds will go for veterinary care to rescue cats, as well as for food, litter, and toys and for support of the local trap-neuter-return program.  For information and details send an email to [email protected].

SPORTS

MLB Draft League
Trenton Thunder 8        Williamsport Crosscutters 0
Cutters are back on the road tonight in West Virginia for two games then spend the weekend in Mahoning Valley against the Scrappers.  They’ll be back home Tuesday 8/6 hosting West Virginia Black Bears at Journey Bank Ballpark and Historic Bowman field 6:35pm first pitch.

MLB

Yankees 6  Phillies  5
Orioles  10           Blue Jays 4
Twins  8     Mets 3
D’back  5    Nationals  4
Astros  5     Pirates 4

MLB Tonight
Orioles  vs Guardians 6:40pm
Royals vs Tigers  6:40pm
Marlins vs Braves 7:20pm
Cardinals  vs Cubs 8:05pm
Rockies vs Angels 9:38pm

Olympics Results
Womens’ Swimming
* Katie Ledecky earned the eighth Olympic gold medal of her career and 12th medal overall with a runaway victory in the 1,500-meter freestyle yesterday at the Paris Games.
Men’s Swimming
* After winning gold in the 200m butterfly , France’s Leon Marchand returned to the pool for the 200m breaststroke and made even more history becoming the first swimmer ever to win a medal in both the butterfly and breaststroke.
* Marchand made an Olympic-record time of 2:05.85.
Women’s Tennis
Coco Gauff lost in women’s doubles and mixed doubles at the Paris Olympics yesterday, a day after her tearful exit in singles.
Gauff and her U.S. teammate, Jessica Pegula, were the top-seeded women’s pair but were eliminated in the second round by the Czech duo 2-6, 6-4, 10-5 in a match tiebreaker in the afternoon.
Women’s Soccer
The U.S. women’s national team took a 2-1 win over Australia in Marseille yesterday to secure first place in Group B at the Olympic Games and set up a quarterfinal against Japan in Paris on Saturday.
Men’s Basketball
Team U.S.A. men’s defeated South Sudan 103-86 to qualify for the quarterfinals. After sitting out the win against Serbia on Sunday, Jayson Tatum got the start this time.
Medal Count
US 30 5-gold 13-silver 12-bronze
France 26 8-gold 10-silver 8-bronze
China  20  10-gold 7-silver  3 bronze

Olympics Today
*Simone Biles and some her of U.S. teammates compete in the women’s gymnastics all-around final.
*Olympic swimming features four finals, including Katie Ledecky in the 4×200-meter free relay. 
*Track and field features the men’s and women’s race walk. 
*Olympic men’s golf begins  their first round
* The U.S. women’s basketball team continues group play against Belgium.

BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS JULY 31, 2024

BENTON MAN CHARGED FOR UNCONTROLLED BRUSH FIRE

Charges were filed after a Benton man started a fire he couldn’t control. According to North Central PA dot com, the 44 year old Eric Michael Kocher started the blaze in late April to clear brush behind his home. Kocher’s neighbors called 911 after seeing the fire had spread to their property. Kocher’s wife claimed the neighbor threatened to shoot her, Kocher and their dog after approaching on a four-wheeler. When questioned by authorities, Kocher admitted to starting the fire. Kocher is being charged with risking catastrophe, dangerous burning, failure to control a dangerous burn, disorderly conduct, and more. He is scheduled for a preliminary hearing Aug 20 and is free without bail.

FATHER WHO ABUSED HIS CHILDREN FREED AFTER TIME SERVED

The man who pleaded guilty to abusing his 8 children from 1994 until 2020, had a sentencing hearing and will be released from prison for time served. According to the Sun Gazette, Matthew Joseph Zeigler was sentenced to 1,137 days in prison, but the term for the 5 counts of endangering the welfare of a child was maxed out, and Zeigler is free.  However, he was also sentenced to 60 months’ probation and ordered to pay a $6,500 fine and must adhere to a no-contact provision, prohibiting him from contacting the victims by any means, including through a third party. 

MCCLURE MAN ARRESTED AFTER THREATENING CODES OFFICER

A man from McClure allegedly threatened a property code officer and is facing charges.  According to the Daily Item, 27 year old Matthew C. Lash was on his property July 18th when Code Enforcement Officer Gerald Lloyd III was doing inspections.  After an interchange between the two men who were both inside their vehicles, Lloyd said he was threatened by Lash and told that he’d be shot and killed if he returned, before Lash sped off, striking Lloyd’s car in the process.  Lash has now been charged with felony threats against an official, misdemeanor terroristic threats, reckless endangerment and obstructing a government official.  He was arraigned and posted 15 thousand dollars bail.

NEW FORESTER IN TIOGA COUNTY

A Galeton native and graduate of Penn College has been appointed as the district forester for Tioga State Forest, covering over 161 thousand acres in Bradford and Tioga counties.  According to DCNR, Benn Carlson will manage the forest, including the majestic Pine Creek Gorge, also known as the Grand Canyon of Pennsylvania, and the popular Pine Creek Rail Trail. He said priorities of the position for him include managing the forest’s timber resources and recreational forestlands, as well as raising awareness about careers in conservation through programs for  school age children.

PENN STATE FRATERNITY BROTHERS PLEAD GUILTY IN HAZING INCIDENT

In a Centre County courtroom, the two former Penn State students who were involved in a fatal hazing incident at their fraternity in 2017 entered their plea yesterday.  According to North Central PA dot com, Brendan Young and Daniel Casey pleaded guilty to 14 misdemeanor counts of hazing and a single count of reckless endangerment after sophomore student Timothy Piazza, a pledge of the fraternity, was found unresponsive after participating in an event involving excessive amounts of alcohol.  Piazza died a few days later after suffering from multiple falls.  Young, 28, and Casey will be sentenced October 1st.  The Piazza family supported the Pennsylvania legislature in passing the Timothy Piazza Anti–Hazing Law, which includes a felony-graded offense when serious injury or death results.

NORRY CORONER LOOKING FOR BLOOD RELATIVES OF SUBJECT

Living blood relatives of a Northumberland County resident are being sought.  Coroner James F. Kelley says he is looking for living relatives of 64 year old Thomas J Crumlic, who lived in Mount Carmel.  If you have any information that can help, please call Kelley through the County Communication Center at 570-988-4539.

‘FREE FILE’ COMING FOR PA RESIDENT IN 2025

The IRS is offering a new free tax filing system for 2025.  According to the Penn-Capital Star, U.S. Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen and Gov. Josh Shapiro announced yesterday a transformation at the Internal Revenue Service that drastically improves the taxpayer experience through the Inflation Reduction Act.  The program called Free File could save Pennsylvanians $630 million in combined annual tax filing fees and additional tax credits claimed directly from the IRS.  Governor Shapiro said the prgram would be available for all Pennsylvanians in the next tax filing season.

VA HEALTHCARE EVENT AT PENN COLLEGE IN AUGUST

The Department of Veterans Affairs will hold a town hall & enrollment event at Penn College next month.  According to a press release from the Wilkes Barre VA Medical Center Leadership, the event will be August 21st at the Thompson Professional center on the campus.  The event will provide veterans family members and the public to express feedback on the recent expanded benefits of the PACT Act and if desired, also enroll in VA Healthcare.  Parking for the 5pm event is available in lot V-3.

SPORTS

MLB Draft League
Crosscutters and Thunder were cancelled last night due to rain.  They’ll try again tonight at Journey Bank Ballpark @ Historic Bowman Field; 6:35pm first pitch.

MLB
Guardians  5        Tigers 0
Orioles  6             Blue Jays  2
Yankees  7                     Phillies 6
Mets  2                 Twins  0
Pirates  6              Astros  2
D’Backs  17         Nationals  0

MLB Tonight
Yankees vs Phillies 12:35
Blue Jays vs Orioles  12:35pm
Twins vs Mets  1:10pm
Nationals vs  D’Backs 3:40pm
Pirates  vs Astros  8:10pm

Olympics News  Coming up today…
* LeBron James and the U.S. men’s basketball team play South Sudan.
* U.S. swimmer Katie Ledecky competes in the 1,500-meter final. 
* The U.S. women’s national soccer team continues group play, with a match against Australia. * The Olympic gymnastics men’s all-around title is live at 11:30amUS Women’s Gymnastics
*The US Women’s Gymnastics team earned gold yesterday, defeating Italy, by nearly six points, with a seven-point gap to bronze medalist Brazil.
*It was the fourth time that the American women have claimed gold in the event, but the first since 2016.
*The medal for Biles with her floor routine score of core of 14.666 earned her the eighth overall and her fifth gold in three appearances – making her the most decorated American gymnast in Olympic history.
Triathalon
*The Olympic triathlons got underway today as the women dove into the Seine River to start the swim after days of delays and uncertainty over water quality concerns.
* The men were slated to start about three hours after the women’s race. 
Men’s Olympic Soccer
 U.S. 3             Guinea 0
* U.S. and France qualify for the Quarterfinals

Medal Count
US 26  4-gold 11-silver 11-bronze
France  19  6-gold 9-silver 4-bronze
China  14 6-gold 6-silver 2-bronze

BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS JULY 30, 2024

SUSPECT WITHDRAWS NO CONTEST PLEA IN NORRY COURT

The 20 year old Watsontown man on trial for shooting a state trooper in April of 2023, withdrew his no contest plea for aggravated assault on a police officer. According to PennLive, Hunter Shaheen originally faced two counts of felony attempted  homicide after a 2023 incident in which State police were assisting the Watsontown Borough police during a domestic dispute and a trooper was shot in the leg with a non-life-threatening injury by Shaheen, who was also shot and taken into custody after the exchange.  Shaheen’s defense attorney says the prosecution is seeking a weapon enhancement for the charges and they had only just found that out in the presentencing report.  Now the original charges are back on the table against Shaheen which could carry a 40 year sentence.

SERIOUS INJURIES FOR ONE DRIVER AFTER TWO-CAR ACCIDENT

Life Flight was dispatched last night for a two-car crash at the 9000 block of State Route 522 in Franklin Township in Snyder County.  According to State police Selinsgrove, 75 year old Claude Stanley of Middleburg was seriously injured when his northbound 2010 Chevy Cobalt crossed into the southbound lanes near Dock Hill Road and collided with a tractor trailer driven by 55 year old Scott D. Solomon, of New Columbia, who was not injured. Police say Stanley was not wearing a seat belt.

BASSMASTER TOURNEY WINNER FROM VIRGINIA

A man from Virginia won the national Bassmaster Kayak Series Tournament over the weekend.  According to the Basscast, Ewing Minor of Virginia scored a two-day total of 187.75 inches, and won just over $11 thousand. Just a quarter of an inch separated Minor from second-place Kristine Fischer from Nebraska, who put up a two-day total of 187.50 inches.  Over 200 anglers were free to fish anywhere on the Susquehanna river in this region and over 2,400 bass were caught during the tournament; sponsored by the Susquehanna River Valley Visitors Bureau.

CLINTON COUNTY FAIR ENDS THIS WEEKEND

The 51st Clinton County Fair continues tonight in Mill Hall and will highlight the week of community, agriculture and local talent.  There are many favorite activities at the fair, including the Bill Yost Memorial Horseshoe Tournament, a Corn Hole Tournament and various 4-H and FFA awards programs.  The public is invited to compete in the Animal Dressing Contest, Hot Dog Eating Contest, Youth Pie Eating and more.  Plus. there is a prize drawing each night at 9:30 on the AuxStage in which you must be present to win.  The gates open every day at 7am with a 5 dollar admission and 2 dollar parking. Children 12 and under are free. Get details and the full schedule at clintoncountyfair.com.

MAN SENTENCED 6 TO 25 YEARS FOR VIOLENT ASSAULT

A 73 year old man from Cogan Station was sentenced to at least six and a half years but up to 25 years in state prison after police said the man kidnapped a woman binding her hands and feet, and gagging her, before a neighbor heard her screaming in a Watsontown alley and came to her aid. According to the Daily Item, Byron Magargle appeared for his sentencing hearing by video in Northumberland County Court.  Magargle’s attorney told the judge that his client suffered from Post Traumatic Stress Disorder and blacked out and didn’t remember the incident.

WOMAN USES FALSE NAME WITH POLICE TO HIDE PRIOR ARRESTS

Police recently arrested a Lock Haven woman who they say gave a false name during a traffic stop, trying to keep details about her previous violations from them.  According to North Central PA dot com, police say 54 year old Nicole Pauline Burns has several warrants out for her arrest and has a suspended driver’s license, and gave her maiden name “Shoemaker” when police questioned her at Woodward Avenue.  Burns was taken into custody and taken to the Clinton County Correctional Facility.

BERWICK WOMAN CHARGED WITH STEALING FROM GRANDMOTHER

34 year old granddaughter from Berwick is being charged with felonies for taking advantage of a care dependent person and stealing all her grandmother’s money.  According to family members, Shawna Rae Francis was given control over her grandmother’s accounts for paying bills in January 2023.  Over the course of a year over 53 thousand dollars was drained and Francis’ aunt was asking for financial records that the woman wouldn’t disclose.  Police discovered Francis transferred large sums of the money to her account to pay for household items and her own mortgage.

RECONSTRUCTION OVERNIGHT IN LYCOMING COUNTY

The reconstruction and bridge replacement project continues today on Lycoming Mall Drive and Fairfield Road in Fairfield Township. Work is scheduled for tonight at 7pm through until 6am. Vehicles traveling Lycoming Mall Drive at the intersection with Fairfield Road will be switched to the newly completed part of the structure over Bennetts Run. After that side is complete, the contractor will begin reconstruction work on other half of the bridge. Watch for flaggers while the work is being performed.

SPORTS

MLB Draft League – Last night in Trenton
Williamsport Crosscutters 2  Trenton Thunder 1
Williamsport hosts Trenton for Game 2 of their three-game series,  tonight at 6:35pm
MLB
Guardians 8         Tigers 4
Game 1 –     Orioles  11           Blue Jays  5
Game 2 –     Blue Jays 8           Orioles 4
Yankees  14         Phillies  4
Mets  15               Twins  2
Pirates  5              Astros  3
D’backs  9                      Nationals 8
MLB Tonight
Yankees vs Phillies  6:40pm TBS
Mets  vs Twins 7:10pm
Pirates vs Houston 8:10pm
Nationals vs D’Backs 9:40pm

Olympics
Women’s Basketball Olympic Opener
* The Americans defeated Japan 102-76 – in a rematch of the 2021 gold medal game in Tokyo.
* They are now 56-0 in the Olympics since 1992 as they take the first step toward winning their eighth consecutive gold.
* Japan’s tallest player stands 6-foot-1, and Team USA has six players that height or taller.
Triathalon
* The men’s Olympic triathlon planned for Tuesday has been postponed over concerns about water quality in Paris’ Seine River.
* They will try to hold the men’s triathlon Wednesday the same day as the women’s competition and both are subject to water tests.
Men’s Tennis
* Novak Djokovic, defeated Rafael Nadal, 6-1, 6-4 in the second round of the Summer GamesWomen’s Rugby
* Down 7-0, the U.S. women’s team cameback  to defeat Great Britain 17-7 in the quarterfinals.
* It’s the first time that the U.S. reached the semifinal since rugby became an Olympic sport in 2016.
* The Americans will face New Zealand next for a spot in the final.
Medal Count
USA 20  3-gold, 8-silver, 9-bronze
France 16  5-gold 8-silver 3-bronze
japan 12 6-gold 2-silver  4-bronze

BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS JULY 26, 2024

JUVENILES IN CUSTODY FOR WILLIAMSPORT SHOOTINGS

Two Williamsport teens and a Philadelphia boy are facing juvenile charges after police discovered they were allegedly  involved in several shootings around Williamsport in the past two weeks.  According to the Sun Gazette, shots were first fired July 18th in the area of Linn Street in which a car was struck.  No injuries were sustained in the next two shootings the first of which was on King Street Monday at about 7:45pm but another vehicle was struck by a bullet during that shooting on Tuesday at 12:45am. After police recovered ballistics evidence at the three scenes, they suspected the incidents were linked and through search warrants, further discovered evidence and firearms from the shootings connected to the suspects.  The 16 year old from Philly who was being sought by juvenile probation authorities and he was sent back to the city.  The remaining two teens are to be petitioned in juvenile court.

FOX WITH SUSPECTED RABIES CAPTURED

In the wake of two people being bitten by a suspected-to-be-rabid fox in Selinsgrove yesterday, state police have announced they have now collected it and given it and the PA Game Commission for testing.  According to North Central PA dot com, in an incident on July 24th, the East Snyder Community Garden posted to social media that people were bitten in Harris Estates.  Once results from the tests come back, authorities will take next steps.

TREE CLEARING NEXT WEEK IN LEWISBURG

A tree clearing project is going to affect Route 15 south in East Buffalo Township, Union County. According to PennDOT, next Monday through Thursday dead trees, saplings and vines will be cleared along the Route 15 southbound Right-of-Way near Bucknell between Curtin Avenue and the intersection with Smoketown Road and Moore Avenue.  The right side driving lane will be taken up with tree surgeon crews from 9am til 3pm each day.

A tree clearing project is going to affect Route 15 south in East Buffalo Township, Union County. According to PennDOT, next Monday through Thursday dead trees, saplings and vines will be cleared along the Route 15 southbound Right-of-Way near Bucknell between Curtin Avenue and the intersection with Smoketown Road and Moore Avenue.  The right side driving lane will be taken up with tree surgeon crews from 9am til 3pm each day.

The 77th Little league World Series is coming to Williamsport and on August 13th the 18th Grand Slam parade kicks off at Maynard and Fourth Streets  at 5pm.  According to the Williamsport Lycoming Chamber of Commerce, they have announced a grand marshal for the annual parade that will feature the 20 Little League World series teams and their families.  Former Detroit Tiger and Hall of Fame Pitcher, Jack Morris will appear in the parade thanks to Lycoming Engines.  The parade will be broadcast live on WNEP TV-16.

SHUNK MAN ALLEGEDLY EXPOSED HIMSELF IN HILLSGROVE

A man with a history of sex crimes was taken into in custody this week for allegedly exposing himself outside of an ice cream shop in Hillsgrove.  According to North Central PA dot com, police say they received a report from the owner of the shop about 88 year old Louis Dastalfo of Shunk who had exposed himself in the past and was seen by victims again earlier this month  in his truck.  After a police interview, troopers allege even though Dastalfo says his behavior is innocent, the fact that he is a prior registered Megan’s Law offender and has repeated this behavior, says otherwise.  He is in Bradford County Prison in lieu of 10 thousand dollars bail, with a preliminary hearing in August.

GUILTY TROOPER IN FATAL ACCIDENT TRIAL SEEKS NEW TRIAL

After a guilty verdict in the case of a state trooper who police say crossed the center line of Route 6 in February of 2023, causing an accident that killed a Troy area school teacher, Michael Brown is now seeking a new trial.  According to PennLive, Brown’s attorney is claiming juror misconduct and want the judge to vacate his guilty verdict.  Brown and his lawyer also want the August 9th sentencing hearing to be continued so that four jurors in question could answer to their alleged misconduct, which included not disclosing an active arrest warrant, posting their intended verdict on social media and other allegations.

LINE PAINTING OVERNIGHT NEXT WEEK ON PA HIGHWAYS

There will line painting in north central Pennsylvania next week.  According to PennDOT, line painting operations Start Sunday at 7pm through 7am daily in Lycoming, Sullivan, Union, Snyder, Northumberland, Columbia and Montour Counties, weather permitting. The department asks for patience from motorists, and to stay back from and not pass the paint truck, as well as not driving on the wet paint lines. They will pull over periodically to allow traffic to pass.  You can can check conditions on major roadways 24/7 by visiting 511PA.com.

MILTON CHRISTMAS IN JULY EVENT

There will be an inaugural Christmas in July event in Milton this Saturday.  According to the Daily Item, the Milton Winterfest Committee is attempting to extend the Spirit they try to generate at Christmastime during the summer this year as well as to raise awareness for the wintertime event.  There will be a candy cane hunt, games and activities for the kids along with over 20 food and craft vendors plus fundraising auctions and drawings. The event is from 11am til 1pm at Brown Avenue Park.

SPORTS

Little League
PA State Tournament
Back Mountain 4  TriTown 1
TriTown  vs GreenCastle Tonight @ Newville 7pm

MLB Draft League
WV Black Bears 4  Williamsport Crosscutters 3
WV sweeps the series.
Cutters back home tonight hosting State College Spikes 6:35pm first pitch

MLB
Tigers  3 Guardians  0
Padres  3  Nationals 0
Orioles  7  Marlins  6
Mets 3  Braves  2
MLB Tonight
Guardians vs Phillies 6:40pm
Padrtes vs Orioles 7:05pm
Braves vs Mets 7:10pm
Yankees vs Red Sox  7:10pm ESPN+
Pirates vs Diamondbacks 9:40pm

Olympic News
Canada’s women’s national team head coach Bev Priestman has been removed from the country’s Olympic soccer team over a scandal involving the use of drones to spy on opponents’ practice.  The Canadian Olympic Committee said it made the decision after Canada Soccer decided to suspend Priestman for the remainder of the tournament.

Paris 2024 Opening Ceremonies Today
Streaming live @ 12pm NBC/Peacock, NBCOlympics.com
Primetime Replay 7:30pm  NBC

  • From a technical, television perspective, the extravaganza will be the most complicated event that has ever been produced. The Olympic Broadcasting Service (OBS) will operate 100 cameras along the parade route and each delegation will have access to a live mobile phone camera on the boat. NBC will be tracking Team USA’s route, and the Americans will be second-to-last down the river because the U.S. will host the 2028 Games in Los Angeles.

BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS JULY 25, 2024

ALLEGED SHOOTER’S MOTHER CHARGED AS ACCOMPLICE

The mother of the alleged shooter in an incident that happened in Loyalsock township that killed 15 year old Ahmeen Palmer is being charged as an accomplice to murder and her preliminary hearings started yesterday.  According to the Sun Gazette, Johneice Francin Legare faces 10 charges and most remain sealed from the public.  After an investigation, police say Legare drove the suspect to the East Third Street parking lot March 2nd allegedly to confront the victim, and after the shooting, drove away with the suspect in her car and cell phone records indicated they went to the Philadelphia area.  District Judge Gary Whiteman bound over all charges in the case and a trial date of Legare  has not been set.  The alleged suspect, Ja’hsir Legare, remains at large at this time.

COGAN STATION MAN ARRESTED FOR NOT PAYING TAXES

A man from Cogan Station was in U.S. Middle District Court this week and pleaded guilty to not paying taxes. According to Penn Live, J. Michael Barr, of Barr Construction, admitted to using a cash system between 2017 and 2020, paying out around 615 thousand dollars to his employees to avoid taxes.  He may now face up to two years in prison.  An amount of full restitution has yet to be determined at an upcoming hearing.  Barr is free pending an upcoming sentencing hearing.

FREE MEALS AT MONTOURSVILLE THIS YEAR

Students in Montoursville will not have to pay for meals this upcoming school year.  According to the district, students will receive one free breakfast and one free lunch on the days school is in session throughout the entire 2024-2025 schoolyear.  Students will be allowed to keep balances on their account and may use it for extra purchases, approved snacks or for drinks.  Details and a list of the prices for extra meals are on the Montoursville Area School District’s website for each school.

FAYLOR LAKE RECOGNIZED FOR DISC GOLF COURSE

Snyder County has been recognized by the National Association of Counties for their development of the Faylor Lake Disc Golf Course in Beavertown.  According to the Daily Item, the award is in the community and economic development category and calls the course an “outstanding government program.”  The course opened in 2021 and over time, the commissioners have installed a pavilion on the site, with seating and restrooms.  The 18 hole course was designed by Steve Braud and is maintained by Lee Zimmerman, regularly hosting disc golf tournaments in the past.

MAN CHARGED WITH MAKING FALSE STATEMENTS

A man from Hughesville who said he won the gun in a raffle is facing charges after he provided false information on an application to transfer a firearm into his name.  According to the Sun Gazette, police say Patrick Ranck knowingly lied on a federal form at Craig Dostick Guns in Muncy Creek Township, and that he had previously been convicted of charges that prohibit him from owning a gun.  He now faces felony attempted illegal transfer of a firearm and making false statements, but is free on 15 thousand dollars bail.

MAN CHARGED WITH ENDANGERMENT  AFTER CAR ACCIDENT

A Watsontown man was charged with endangering the welfare of children after two teens were injured during an accident in which the police say the man had been drinking.  According to the Daily Item, 51 year old Franklin Rovenolt was involved in a crash that he said was caused by hydroplaning around 10pm May 25th on Continental Boulevard in Limestone Township.  Police say his passengers suffered broken bones and cuts due to the accident.  Police say Rovenholt consented to a blood test, which measured his Blood alcohol content at .106 percent. He is free on 10 thousand dollars unsecured bail and will be in court for a preliminary hearing August 6th.

WASD SCHEDULES OPEN HOUSES

There are upcoming open houses at Williamsport Area schools for parents and students to get familiar with their new buildings and teachers.  Williamsport Area Middle School will hold their open house Tuesday, August 20th with separate times for 7th and 8th grade students.  Curtin and Lycoming Valley Intermediate Schools will hold their open houses Wednesday August 21st, and Primary Schools, Cochran, Hepburn-Lycoming and Jackson will hold their open house August 22nd – the same night as the High School.  Rising seniors can attend a “What’s my graduation plan?” session on Thursday the 22nd, too.  Get more specific times and details at wasd.org, under the academic calendar tab.  The first day of school for Williamsport is August 26th.

BASS TOURNAMENT IN LEWISBURG THIS WEEKEND

The race for Angler of the Year continues this weekend in Lewisburg during the Yamaha Rightwaters Bassmaster Kayak Series at Susquehanna River.  According to North Central PA dot com, the competitors will use Lewisburg is the home base but may launch from any public launch listed in the official rules at bassmaster.com.  The “Susky” is Saturday and Sunday and is hosted by Susquehanna River Valley Visitors Bureau.  Josh Chrenko from Indiana won the Kayak Series finale with a two-day total of 194 inches.

SPORTS

Little League State Championship
TriTown defeated West Point yesterday  4-3 in 7 innings
MLB Little League Today
Tri Town is in the winners’ bracket semifinals against Back Mountain 10am @ Newville

MLB Draft League
WV Black Bears 8       Williamsport Crosscutters 5 /8 innings – Rain
Cutters are in WV for Game 3 of the series tonight, then are back at home Friday hosting the State College Spikes 6:35pm first pitch

MLB
Guardians 2        Tigers  1
Pirates 5              Cardinals 0
Twins  5              Phillies 4
Marlins  6           Orioles  3
Padres  12           Nationals  3
Mets  12              Yankees 3
MLB Today
Padres  vs Nationals  12:05pm  ESPN+
Orioles  vs Marlins  12:10pm
Tigers vs Guardians  1:10pm
Braves vs Mets  7:10pm

Olympic News
US Men’s Soccer
 * United States men’s Olympic soccer team lost 3-0 to host country France in the tournament opener
* Tens of thousands of fans at Parc des Princes Stadium booed and hissed and whistled their way through the Israeli national anthem before the soccer match between Israel and Mali. Participants say the voices of Israel’s fans, even though in the minority, became loud enough to drown out the dissent.

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Jan 16

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