BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS JANUARY 23, 2020

MAN JAILED FOR WILLIAMSPORT ROBBERY
A 19 year old man has been jailed and is facing felony charges for his alleged role in a robbery at a Turkey Hill on Washington Blvd in Williamsport in early January.  According to police reports, Jamaire Mekhai Burget, of Isabella St was wearing a red hoodie while he held a female employee at knifepoint inside the store at about 4:45am January 5th.  He stole money from the register, and fled the store on foot.  The woman escaped and called police, who found Burket nearby on Railway Street with the hoodie in his hands and cash in his pocket.  Burket has been jailed on robbery, aggravated assault, and other charges in lieu of 250 thousand dollars straight bail.

FIRE COMPANIES TO RECEIVE GRANT MONEY
State representatives in Centre and Clinton Counties have announced almost 300 thousand dollars in grants made available by the PA Emergency Management Agency and the Office of the State Fire Commissioner for 24 local fire companies in the region, each receiving at most just over 14 thousand dollars.  The funds come from slot machine gaming, and not general fund tax revenue and can provide help for construction or renovation of the facility, purchase or repair of equipment, training, or reduction of existing debt.  Dunnstown Fire Company in Woodward Township will also receive grant money.

SKEET SHOOTING OLYMPIAN TO TALK AT MUNCY VALLEY CLUB
An Olympic skeet shooting competitor who started in Sullivan County 4-H when she was 8 years old, will be visiting the area this weekend.   Morgan Craft will give a talk Saturday at 11 on her experiences while on the path to the Rio Olympics at the North Mountain Sportsman’s Club on Spook Hollow road in Muncy Valley.  Craft will answer questions after the talk and refreshments will be provided.    You can register by calling the Sullivan County Library – host of the event – at 570-928-9352.

SCHOOL VOLUNTEER SAVES CHILD FROM CHOKING
A volunteer at Stevens Primary school helped save a first grader who was choking thanks to his automatic reaction, as well as being a parent and trained for the job he received through AmeriCorps.  According to the Sun Gazette, Odren Polk, who the kids call Mr. O, was in the school cafeteria recently, when 7 year old Kenyon Ritter showed that he was choking, and Polk responded – a grape tomato was dislodged.  The principal at Stevens, Mr. James Ellis, said Mr. O set the example of how important CPR training is, when an emergency can happen at any time.

GRANT WILL SIPPORT STEM PROGRAMS
A grant has been awarded to Williamsport Area School District and IU17 that will help expand computer science programming and training in local districts.  According to the Sun  Gazette, the 35 thousand dollar grant will be used at Williamsport Schools to add an advanced placement computer science course to the 15 AP courses now offered by the high school.  The Superintendent of Williasmport Area Schools said the grant will enhance the multiple STEM opportunities within WASD.  Administrators from IU 17 said the grants will equip three IU 17 programs with a STEM lab space and tools which will prepare students for a technology-driven workforce.

CITY COUNCIL TO HEAR POLICE PROGRAM REQUEST
The Williamsport City Council will meet tonight and there is an anticipated agenda.  According to the Sun Gazette, City Council will review a request by the Williamsport Bureau of Police to join a program that would assist it toward becoming an accredited professional department.  According to Chief Damon Hagan the accreditation could provide a framework on which the department policy and training is established as well as track subpoenas received on court matters.  Also on the agenda is the renewal vote for John Markley as a member of the Lycoming County Veterans Memorial Park Commission and a discussion on revenue collection.  The council will meet tonight at 7:30 PM, in City Hall Council Chambers.  Meetings are televised live on Comcast channel 75 and posted to YouTube the following day

WWII SOLDIER FROM NORTHUMBERLAND WILL COME HOME
In a press release from the Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency, a soldier from Northumberland has been officially accounted for.  According to the Daily Item, 20-year-old Army Pvt. Horace Middleton of Northumberland was accounted for October 31of last year.  An infantryman in a company known as Merrill’s Marauders, Middleton was killed in battled July 12, 1944 in Burma. He will be buried in Milton April 18.

PENNDOT SEEKING SUMMER HIRES
Penn DOT is opening the application period for their Summer Employment Program.  College students are encouraged to apply to gain work experience as well as prepare for future employment opportunities, or to get on track for a permanent career with PennDOT.  Positons include custodial workers, drill operators, equipment operators and semi-skilled laborers and offer various wages and responsibilities.  Apply online at penndot.gov.
Sports
NBA
Raptors beat the 76ers 107 to 95, Pistons beat the Kings 127 to 106, Thunder beat Magic 120 to 114, Lakers beat the Knicks 100 to 92, Celtics beat the Grizzlies 119 to 95, Heat beat the Wizards 134 to 129, Hawks over the Clippers 102 to 95, Bulls beat the Timberwolves 117 to 110, Rockets beat the Nuggets 121 to 105, Pacers over the Suns 112 to 87, Spurs beat the Pelicans 121 to 117, Jazz over the Warriors 129 to 96
NHL
Blue jackets beat the Jets 4 to 3, Wild over Red Wings 4 to 2
HS Boys Basketball
Lewisburg over Montoursville 52-51 (OT), Warrior Run beat South Williamsport 55 to 34, Muncie beat CMVT 41 to 26, Sullivan County over Montgomery 59-36, Loyalsock beat Milton 77-45, Bloomsburg over Hughesville 60-45, Shamokin beat Jersey Shore 62-44
HS Girls Basketball
Selinsgrove defeated Central Mountain 39-37, Jersey Shore beat Montoursville 56-46, NorthPenn Mansfield beat Canton 42-22, Wellsboro over Williamson 67-10,
HS Wrestling
South Williamsport defeated Sugar Valley 60-12,
Men’s Basketball
Millersville beat Lock Haven 83-80 snapping LHUs 4 game win streak , Mansfield over shepherd 62-61,Penn State beat Michigan 72-63
Women’s Basketball
Shepherd over Mansfield 67-59, Lock Haven over Millersville 82-75

BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS JANUARY 22, 2020

POLICE CHASE WOMEN AFTER SHOPLIFTLING
Police stopped two women who stole merchandise from a Selinsgrove department store last weekend and they were both were in district court this week.   According to State troopers, 50-year-old Shari Weaver and 30 year old Sarah Karpinski of Shamokin, stole more than 80 dollars-worth of items and fled the Kohl’s Department Store after employees there tried to stop them.  Troopers found the merchandise in the car when they stopped the women after they fled from Marketplace Boulevard. Weaver  was arraigned and released on bail and Karpinski was charged with a misdemeanor.

SHOTS FIRED IN MANSFIELD
Police in Mansfield Borough reported gunshots along the South Main Street area near Smythe Park last night, and requested assistance from area law enforcement for the investigation.  According to North Central PA dot com, an on-duty officer heard the shots near the park at Route 6, but upon investigation, found that a suspect had fled the scene.  According to social media reports there is no threat to the public.  Mansfield University released information that they couldnot confirm a credible threat.  If the public has information about a shooting in Mansfield please call local police.

FIRE TAX APPROVED IN WOODWARD TOWNSHIP
Despite some residents being against it, the Woodward Township supervisors this week approved a fire tax for 2020 at 1 mill based on a home’s assessed value.  The tax will be implemented this year and generate approximately $137,000 for the fire company. The money will be controlled by the supervisors in a separate bank account and can be requested by fire company officials after being approved by the supervisors.  Other topics discussed include the sale of the sewer authority building at 21 Oriole Road as well as moving the police department to the fire hall building. The discussion will continue at the next meeting on Feb. 18.

PUBLIC MEETING ADDRESSES HOSPITAL CLOSURE
The Sunbury City Council held a public meeting last night to address the closing of UPMC Susquehanna.  Local leaders addressed the crowd citing the seriousness of the emergency room closing.  EMS officials in attendance talked of solutions for travels times when patients will need transport to Muncy, Lewisburg and Danville.  Other officials offered employment opportunities at the meeting.

COMMERCIAL ENTITIES TO PAY FOR PUBLIC RECORDS
The State House on Tuesday voted 177-15 to approve legislation that would allow state and local governments to charge businesses for public records. According to the Tribune Democrat, municipal offices aren’t equipped to handle the volume of information regularly sought by commercial record requesters. There is controversy about the bill over the state’s Right to Know law, but legislation was amended in the State Government committee so journalists and academic researchers don’t have to pay, but it will allow for fees for commercial records requests.

COMMISSIONERS ASK FOR MORE FUNDING THROUGH SFPP
A letter of support was approved by the Centre County commissioners yesterday asking Governor Tom Wolf to increase an allocation for the county for the State Food Purchase Program.  According to the Lock Haven Express, Adult Services Director Faith Ryan said many families rely on food banks to feed their families yet, Centre County has seen a decrease in its SFPP funds over the years – with Pennsylvania losing almost 600 thousand dollars in funding since 2005.  The letter of support asks that $36 million almost double the current allocation.  The next commissioners meeting is Jan. 28 at the Willowbank Building in Bellefonte.

SOIL REMEDIATION CONTINUES THIS WEEK
Watch for alternating lane closures as the road work and soil remediation continues this week on I-80 westbound in Union County.  According to PennDOT The work will take place today through Friday,  7am to 5pm  in White Deer Township around mile marker 202.  There will be crews flagging and blocking left lane. You can follow PennDOT on Twitter @511PAAltoona

DONOR HELPS SHAMOKIN SCHOOL DISTRICT
An anonymous donor has given a 250,000 gift to help fund new turf for the the Shamokin Area School District varsity football field.  According to the News Item a former student donated the funds for the Kemp Memorial Stadium turf.  The donation was accepted at the school board meeting yesterday and a contract to install replacement turf was approved.
Sports
NBA  – Clippers beat the Mavericks 110 to 107
NHL
Bruins beat the Golden Knights 3 to 2, the Islanders beat the Rangers 4-2, Hurricanes over the Jets 4-1, Flyers beat the Penguins 3 to nothing, Panthers over the Blackhawks 4 to 3
HS Girls Basketball
Hughesville beat South Williamsport 36-34, Muncy beat CMVT 59-27, Sullivan County beat Benton 48-38, Montoursville beat Lewisburg 55-47, Loyalsock over Mount Carmel 45 to 40, and Millville beat Montgomery 54 to 47, Saint John Neumann over Bucktail 31 to 24, Jersey Shore beat Milton 51 to 36, Shamokin beat Warrior Run 57 to 55, Galeton over Smethport 20 to 18,
HS Boys Basketball
St. John Neumann beat Millville 53 to 50, North Penn Mansfield beat Wellsboro 66 to 60, Canton beat North East Bradford 57-49,  North Penn Liberty beat Sayre 52 to 49,
Swimming
Girls -Bloomsburg defeated Jersey shore 104 to 79,
Boys – Bloomsburg over Jersey Shore 88 to 54,
HS Wrestling
Canton beat Towanda 45-27, Montgomery over South Williamsport 30 to 21, Milton beat Lewisburg 42 to 27, Montoursville beat Warrior Run 51 to 19, Central Mountain beat Selinsgrove 36 to 30, Williamsport over Danville 63 to 18
Men’s Basketball
Penn college beat PSU Berks 90 to 70,
Women’s Basketball
PSU Berks beat Penn College 57 to 37
Major League Baseball – Derek Jeter has been selected for entry into the major-league baseball Hall of Fame for 2020 – one vote short of being a unanimous selection.

BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS JANUARY 20, 2020

MUNCY MAN SENTENCED FOR ASSAULT
A Muncy man was recently sentenced to state prison after being found guilty last fall to assaulting a female victim with a wooden chair in November of 2018.  According to North Central Pa dot com, 48 year old Arthur W. Reed, who formerly lived on North Market Street was arrested by Muncy police,  He last week was sentenced to 12 to 24 months in state prison, and will pay fines, restitution and perform 150 hours of community service.  Reed is in Lycoming County Prison for allegedly intimidating a witness in a separate case.

WINTER WEATHER NOT AFFECTING ROADS TODAY
All roadway restrictions and speed limits are restored this morning after winter weather Saturday caused commercial vehicle restrictions on most roadways in Central PA. According to PennDOT speed limits were at 45 on interstate I-180 from Route 15 north in Williamsport to I-80  in Northumberland County.   As weather conditions continue to affect traffic, treatment of the roads continue this morning

WILLIAMSPORT RAMP CONSTRUCTION MOVES FORWARD
Ramp Construction at the Williamsport Parking Authority Headquarters has been designed and is anticipated to move forward.  According to the Sun Gazette, the authority staff, as well as Mayor Derek Slaughter met last week to see the rendering of the ramp that will bring accessibility to the building on the corner of West Third and West Street.  The authority building ramp is not expected to cost more than 10 thousand dollars.  No vote was taken on the project.  Recently the city of Williamsport was required by the U.S. Department of Justice to address city building accessibility.

MLK JR DAY MEANS DREAM WEEK IN WILLIAMSPORT
It’s Martin Luther King Jr. Day and also Dream Week 2020 in Williamsport.  The winter weather over the weekend cancelled the Peace Walk that typically kicks off the MLK celebration at Penn College, but other events throughout the week will mark the legacy of the slain civil rights leader.  With most schools and businesses observing the federal holiday, families can participate in various service activities.  A screening of the movie Harriet about the life of Harriet Tubman, will take place at Lycoming college’s Krapf Gateway Center Wednesday at 6pm. At the Keiper Rec Center at Lycoming College, volunteers with the Central PA Food Bank will pack healthy meal kits starting at 8:30 until noon today.  There will be a free meal and community call to action at the Castellano Center for Community Outreach on Park Avenue at 6:30 tonight.  Dream week activities are co-sponsored by the schools, the Beloved Community Council and STEPAmericorps

TRUCK STOLEN FROM AUCTION
There was a car stolen from Middleburg and police are investigating.  According to police reports a 1989 Ford Red and Tan F-150 with a Sunoco bumper sticker on the rear bumper was stolen from the Middleburg Auction Barn as reported at 4 p.m. Friday,  If you have any information please call Middleburg police at  570-837-0321.

BB GUN SHOOTING DAMAGES CHURCH
There was a shooting that damaged a building  in Tioga County last week and State police are investigating. According to police reports, someone shot at Whitneyville United Methodist Church along Church Road, in Charleston Township near Wellsboro.  According to police, the damages happened between January 5 and 12 with a BB gun.   The church’s vinyl siding was damaged for an estimated $700.  If you have any information please call Mansfield State Police.

SNOW SQUALL CLOSES ROAD TO TRUCKS
Route 54 around Mt Carmel today was hit with a quick snow squaLl that left 2 inches of snow on the ground this morning and PennDOT on the scene closing the roadway with posted signage.  According to Northumberland County Communications, a section of Route 54 on Natalie Mountain is closed to trucks for several hours.  No crashes were reported during the overnight snowfall

Sports
NFL
The Chiefs beat the Titans yesterday in the AFC Championship 35-24 and the San Francisco 49ers secured their trip to Super Bowl 54 against the Packers last night 37-20 in the NFC championship.
The teams are set – it’s the San Francisco 49ers versus the Kansas City Chiefs in Super Bowl 54 Sunday February 2nd. 

NBA
Spurs beat the Heat 107-102 and Pacers beat the Nuggets 115 to 107
NHL
Penguins beat the Bruins 4 to 3, Hurricanes beat the Islanders 2 to 1, Blue Jackets beat the Rangers 2 to 1, and the Blackhawks beat the Jets 5 to 2
College Wrestling
Penn State beat Rutgers 38 to 6

BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS JANUARY 17, 2020

MAN CHARGED AFTER ALLEGEDLY SHAKING BABY
A young father was arraigned in Lycoming County District court for aggravated and simple assault, as well as recklessly endangering the welfare of child after police say he shook his infant so hard the baby has serious brain injuries.  According to the Sun Gazette, investigators say Tyler Vaughn, of Nippenose Township , shook the baby, born in October, several times in November and December until there was an emergency event in which the unresponsive  infant needed to be flown to Geisinger medical center in Danville.  According to police after an investigation into the shaken baby syndrome case, Vaughn told police he may have done something wrong that led to the child being admitted to the hospital. Vaughn has been released on 95 thousand dollars bail.

STATE GRANT HELPS SOUTH SIDE WITH STORM WATER CONCERNS
A grant from the State Department of Environmental Protection will allow South Williamsport borough to purchase equipment to help clean up the storm water system this spring.  According to the Sun Gazette, almost 300 thousand dollars will be used for vehicles and machines that keep leaf and grass debris from the drainage collection system that cause clogs, and later can spawn harmful bacterial to wildlife. The equipment will also be used to expand the curbside recycling program.

LOCAL BEAR TO BE RELOCATED TO A SANCTUARY
Dillan the bear wiLl be taken to a new home in Colorado,  According to WNEP, the Union County Sportsmen’s Club president “Bear” Spangler said the club came to an agreement with People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals  to relocate Dillan next next Thursday . The allegedly morbidly obese bear has lived at the Union County Sportsmen’s Club for 16 years. The battle over this bear started last spring when someone filed a complaint with PETA about Dillan’s living conditions.

STORM THREAT CHANGES LOCAL SPORTS SCHEDULE
The expected winter weather will change some college and high school sports schedules this weekend.  Lycoming men’s and women’s swim teams will have their dual meet today at 7 PM instead of Saturday, Lycoming women’s and men’s basketball doubleheader at Arcadia has been moved to an 11 AM start on Saturday.  According to the Sun Gazette, the Lockhaven University basketball teams will travel to Bloomsburg today for a women’s start at 5:30 and 7:30 for the men.  In High School basketball, Saturday’s boy’s game Montgomery against Bucktail is postponed and Jersey Shore plays Selinsgrove today 5:30 for the girls and 7 for the boys.  In High School wrestling, the  weekends new Oxford wrestling tournament including Troy in Canton has been fit into a one day tournament starting today at 4 PM

MAN RE-SENTENCED AFTER PROBATION VIOLATION
A man from Lairdsville has been re-sentenced after he violated probation by possessing contraband while on work release last August in Williamsport.  According ot North Central PA dot Com, 44 year old Hughy Woodring Jr. pled guilty in court last week to second degree felony for obtaining illegal prescription  meds and cocaine on Memorial avenue. Lycoming County Judge Marc F. Lovecchio revoked Woodring’s intermediate punishment sentence and re-sentenced Woodring to two to four years state prison.  He was committed to State Correctional Institution Camphill/Muncy.

HOSPITAL ADMIN MAKES STATEMENT ABOUT CLOSING
The  President and CEO of Evangelical Community Hospital in Lewisburg, Kendra Aucker, has made statement in respionse to the hospital closing earlier than expected at the end of this month.  Auker says the hospiutal will  do their part for the people of the Sunbury area so they have appropriate and timely access to care making sure they will fill the gaps left by the closure.  UPMC announced Thursday they are going to close the ER and curtail some of the services at Sunbury, while some other services will continue.

BASEBALL TEAM SHOULD STICK AROUND
After a press release last year that left Williamsport Crosscutter fans wondering if the team would be among teams scheduled for contraction ending their deal with Major League Baseball, a statement by the team’s principal owner, Peter Freund, at the Hot Stove Banquet this week implied he is very optimistic that the Cutters will stick around past the end of the 2020 season. According to the Sun Gazette, there are three options; things could remain the same, the team could be part of a Major League Baseball sponsored Dream League, or an independent league where players could be signed by major league clubs, or  the team could be transformed into a full-season team. MLB commissioner Rob Manfred has said that by reducing the number of teams in the minor league system, major league teams will be able to afford to pay players more money.

DE-ICING STARTS TODAY TO BATTLE WEEKEND WEATHER
PennDOT says they will be pre-treating major roads in advance of the winter weather today.  Anti-icing trucks may be seen along high-volume roads in Columbia, Lycoming, Montour, Northumberland, Snyder, Sullivan, and Union Counties.

PENNDOT CLEAN UP RESTARTS TUESDAY
The soil remediation project on Interstate 80 westbound in White Deer Township scheduled for this week will be suspended today according to PennDOT.  7:00 AM to 4:30 PM.  Motorists should expect the left lane to be restricted while the work is being completed.  Motorists can expect the left lane to be taken up when work resumes on Tuesday January 21st on  Interstate 80 westbound in Union County around mile marker 202.5.  Get updated Pennsylvania road conditions at 511pa.com.Sports
HS Wrestling
For the first time in 42 years Selinsgrove defeated Shikellamy last night in Sunbury 50 to 21, Warrior Run beat Hughesville 54-21 Central Mountain over Bald Eagle Area 44-15, Muncy over Montgomery 49-15, Milton beat Shamokin 51-25, Central Columbia over Loyalsock 64 -3, Mount Carmel over South Williamsport 46-27.
HS Girls Basketball
Loyalsock beat Williamsport 57 to 50, North East Bradford over Canton 50 to 22, Cowanesque Valley over North Penn Mansfield 40 to 37, Sayre over North Penn Liberty 57 to 30
HS Boys Basketball
Northumberland Christian beat Bucktail 78 to 50
NHL
Bruins beat the Penguins 4 to 1, Flames beat the Maple Leafs 2 to 1, Panthers beat the Kings 4 to 3, Rangers beat the Islanders 3 to 2, Canadians beat the Flyers 4-1, Capitals over the Devils 5 to 2, Blue Jackets beat the Hurricanes 3 to 2, Golden Knights over the Senators 4-2, Ducks beat the Predators 4-2, Wild over Lightning 3 to 2, Sabers over the Stars 4 to 1, Avalanche beat Sharks 4-nothing, Canucks over the Coyotes 3 to 1
NBA
Suns beat the Knicks 121 to 98, Bucks beat the Celtics 128 to 123, Pelicans beat Jazz 138 to 132, Nuggets beat the Warriors 134 to 131, Clippers beat Magic 122 to 95

BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS JANUARY 16, 2020

TOOLS STOLEN FROM LOCAL FARM
Tools were stolen from a Muncy farm and state police are investigating.  According to the Sun Gazette, there are reports that yard tools including chainsaws and weed whackers, along with a battery charger were stolen from Brown’s Tree Farm on Stan Wan Road in Moreland Township.  Estimates are that the tools were worth 27 hundred dollars, if you have information on the burglary, call state police.

MONTGOMERY STILL CONSIDERING REGIONALIZATION
Police regionalization is still on the table in Montgomery.  With new members on councils at township levels after recent elections, Borough Police Cpl. Eric Winters is preparing a list of goals using facts and information he has compiled on the subject to present in Muncy, Montgomery and  also for township supervisors in Clinton Brady and Muncy Creek.  Discussions continue comparing consolidation vs regionalization locally which are part of a movement happening in police department communities across the country.

MONTOURSVILLE APPROVES FEASIBILITY STUDY
Facing millions of dollars in costs to upgrade the elementary school system, the Montoursville school board will do a feasibility study to find the best option for the district. A presentation to the board revealed costs of up to over 8 million dollars to renovate Loyalsock Valley Middle and the board opted to get all the options before spending taxpayer money.  The study would show the different impact the options would have on the community and education, and will cost 5 to 8 thousand dollars. The board is next scheduled to meet at 7 p.m. Jan. 28

BOYS OF SUMMER RAISE MONEY IN WINTER
The Williamsport Crosscutters raised $6,750 for the West End Christian Community Center at the 14th annual Crosscutters Hot Stove Banquet last night at the Genetti. The event included  — auctions, an address from owner Peter Freund and interviews with ESPN’s Tim Kiurkjian,  Phllies legend Greg Luzinski —   A presentation for former Cutters manager Pat Borders who had his number 10 retired by the Crosscutters.

SHAMOKIN WOMAN, BABY INJURED IN CRASH
A woman from Shamokin was injured along with her infant passenger in her car Monday night in Northumberland county, and she is facing charges.  According to Stonington State police, Sheyka Roque had minor injuries and was taken to Geisinger for evaluation along with the baby who was in a safety seat.  The accident occurred along Route 61 in Shamokin Township, where Roque’s SUV hit an embankment and flipped.  She has been charged with reckless driving and another citation according to police.

CITY HALL MEETING FOR UNCERTAIN UPMC EMPLOYEES
There will be a City Hall meeting for the UPMC employees who are affected by the upcoming  closing of UPMC Susquehanna Sunbury .  Sunbury Mayor Kurt Karlovich told media outlets that the meeting will be next Tuesday at 5pm in Sunbury City Council chambers at 225 Market Street.  There are reports that hospital workers have been told that the facility will close by January 31, instead of the earlier announced closure March 31.  Karlovich said representatives from the state house, the Greater Susquehanna Valley United Way, CareerLink and Degenstein Community Library will be on hand to provide information on available resources

LEGACY SCHOLARSHIPS FOR LOCK HAVEN
Legacy scholarships have been approved by the Lock Haven University Alumni Association Board of Directors.  According to the University, a child, grandchild, sibling or legally adopted dependent of a Lock Haven University graduate is eligible for 4 awards of 1000 dollars each year.  Recipients will be selected by the university’s Admissions team from each of four regional territories in the state.

ACTOR WANTS BLACK BEAR AT CLUB RELEASED
The Asiatic black bear known as Dillan, who has resided at the Union County Sportsman Club for 10 years, has caught the attention actor Alec Baldwin. Baldwin, known for his role on Saturday Night Live, has written letters to Governor Tom Wolf, asking for the release of the bear. People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals, or PETAclaims Dillan is suffering from obesity and a life-threatening dental disease. Club officials have said the bear is fine. The animal rights group has secured placement for the bear at The Wild Animal Sanctuary in Colorado at no cost to the owners or the club.

Sports
NBA
Pistons beat the Celtics 116 to 103, 76’ers beat the Nets 117 to 106, Heat beat the Spurs 100 to 106, Raptors beat Thunder 130 to 121, Bulls beat Wizards 115 to 106, Pacers beat the Timberwolves 104 to 99, Nuggets beat the Hornets 100 to 86, Trailblazers beat the Rockets 117 to 107, Mavericks beat the Kings 127 to 123, Magic beat the Lakers 119 to 118.
NHL
Blackhawks beat the Canadiens 4 to 1, Flyers beat the blues 4 to 3
HS Girls Basketball
Muncy beat Montgomery 46 to 38, Sullivan County beat Millville 53 to 36, Galeton beat Austin 38 to 22, Warrior Run beat Juniata 67 to 44
HS Boys Basketball
Saint John Neumann beat CMVT 68 to 30, Bucktail beat Benton 53 to 33,   Williamsport beat Hollidaysburg 70 to 47, Hughesville beat Warrior Run 46 to 39, Athens beat Wellsboro 71-57, North Penn Liberty over Canton 61 to 58, Southern Columbia beat South Williamsport 62 to 45, Loyalsock beat Lewisburg 63 to 57, Wyalusing beat North Penn Mansfield 51 to 49, Central Columbia beat Montoursville 60 to 51
Men’s Basketball
Lycoming beat Lebanon Valley 76-54, PSU Harrisburg beat Penn College 100-52, Kutztown beat Mansfield 77 to 63, Lock Haven defeats West Chester 89-84,
Women’s Basketball
Lycoming beat Lebanon Valley OT 81-77,  PSU Harrisburg over Penn College 73 to 69, West Chester beat Lock Haven 76-69, Bucknell beat American 68 to 43, Kutztown beat Mansfield 69-57

BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS JANUARY 14, 2020

MAN WHO FATALLY PUNCHED ANOTHER SENTENCED
A man who fatally punched a man in Sunbury last spring will go to state prison.  According to the Daily Item, Northumberland County Judge Hugh Jones Monday sentenced 36-year-old Jay Boyer Jr of Middleburg to 4 ½ to 9 years.  Media outlets report the incident took place outside a social club April 28 around 4am on South Third Street, when Boyer got into a fight with Brian Cox of Sunbury. Video showed Boyer striking the man who later died from the injuries sustained on his head and face.  Boyer said in court that he is ‘haunted’ by the events.

ROW HOME OWNERS TO APPEAL CONDEMNATION
Renovo residents who are appealing last fall’s condemnation of their 14th Street row houses will have a chance to present their case this week in court.  A public hearing in front of  the Renovo Board of Appeals is Wednesday night at the borough building and will continue into Thursday, if necessary.  According to the Sun Gazette, the homes were deemed unsafe and condemned by Renovo’s  property ordinance and building code enforcement officer. Attorney Rocco Rosamilia, represents  the eight residents of the row houses who appealed the condemnation.

YAW TO RUN FOR RE-ELECTION
State Senator Gene Yaw announced this week that he will run for re-election to the Pennsylvania state Senate in 2020.  Senator Yaw has pledged to continue working on behalf of the residents of Bradford, Lycoming, Sullivan, Susquehanna and Union counties and be a strong advocate for residents in rural Pennsylvania.  Prior to running for the Senate, Yaw served as Lycoming County solicitor for 17 years and remains a Lycoming County resident.  Election Day in Pennsylvania is set for Tuesday, April 28th, 2020.

LANE RESTRICTIONS THIS WEEK ON I-80 WEST
There will be lane restrictions on I-80 West in Union County beginning today.  According to PennDOT, a clean up and soil remediation project is scheduled to take place beginning today between 7am and 3pm around mile marker 202 in White Deer Township and continue for several days.  Watch for contractors on the shoulder and follow speed limits in work zones.  Get travel updates for all PA roads at 511pa dot com.

CASEWORKER WHO STOLE EBT FUNDS SENTENCED
A former caseworker for the state has plead guilty to taking over 86 hundred dollars on fraudulent EBT cards.  The State Attorney General charged 40-year-old Jennifer Curcie of Coal Township with theft by deception and false statements. The AG says she was sentenced to seven years’ probation and ordered to repay the money she stole.  Curcie was employed in the state run Northumberland County assistance office from 2015-18. She was terminated in August 2018.

MOTHER DENIED BAIL REDUCTION
A judge has denied a bail reduction request yesterday for the mother of Jahrid Burgess, the accused killer in the Trevorton child abuse case.  According to the Daily Item, 50-year-old Christy Willis will stay in prison on $200,000 cash bail.  Willis allegedly provided false and misleading statements trying to prevent authorities from investigating the abuse of the late three-year-old Arabella Parker.  The mother of Arabella, Samantha Delcamp is also still facing homicide charges in the case.

WHEELAND TO RUN FOR RE-ELECTION
State Rep. Jeff C. Wheeland of Loyalsock Township will seek re-election to the 83rd House seat.  According to a press release, Wheeland since being elected in 2014, has addressed numerous issues including  policies that spark economic and job growth and quality education for children,, as well as making sure communities get back their fair share of funding. Wheeland represents the residents of Williamsport, South Willamsport, Duboistown, Montgomery and the townships of Armstrong, Clinton, Loyalsock, Old Lycoming, Susquehanna and Woodward. Election Day in Pennsylvania is set for Tuesday April 28th, 2020.

LIBRARY OFFERS BOOKS TO HOMEBOUND
Homebound or disabled residents in Lycoming County will be able to utilize a books by mail service offered by Williamsport’s James V. Brown Library.  Those who cannot access the local library after any temporary or permanent disability may fill out a request form online at jvbrown.edu or call the library to start receiving library materials by mail.  Audiobooks, CDs, and DVDs are also available through the free program, but some newer books and reference materials can only be used in the main building.  Items are delivered to your home in a reusable pre-paid mail-pouch – and returned in the same pouch.

DEP ORDERS TEXAS COMPANY TO CORRECT VIOLATIONS
After several years of a Texas gas company saying methane collecting in wells drilled in Moreland Township is naturally occurring, the DEP has gotten a court order to make the company correct the problems.  According to the Sun gazette, DEP officials, several times discovered violations, including the presence of methane and pressure in wells drilled in February and March of 2011. According to the Sun Gazette, Range Resources of Fort Worth TX has routinely failed to eliminate the impacts of the methane leaks on groundwater and streams, according to DEP.  Failure to comply with the order could result in additional DEP enforcement.

Sports
College Football Playoff National Championship
LSU beat Clemson 42-25
NBA
Pelicans beat the Pistons 117 to 110, Pacers beat the 76ers 101 to 95, Celtics beat the Bulls 113 to 101, Thunder beat the Timberwolves 117 to 104, Magic edged the Kings 114 to 112, Trailblazers beat the Hornets 115 to 112, and the Lakers beat the Cavaliers 128 to 99
NHL
Canadiens defeated the Flames 2-nothing, Rangers beat the Islanders 6-2, Flyers beat the Bruins 6-5, Capitals beat the Hurricanes 2-nothing, and Blues beat the Ducks 4-1
HS Girls Basketball
Mifflinburg over Montoursville 54 to 51, Montgomery over Bucktail 40 to 30, South Williamsport beat Benton 45 to 27, Cameron County beat Galeton 44-17
HS Boys Basketball
North Penn Mansfield beat Northwest 57-32, Montoursville defeated Shikellamy 46-42, Hughesville beat Muncy 59-25, Wellsboro over Cowanesque Valley 69-40, Huntingdon over Central Mountain 79-60, Warrior Run beat Midd-West 74-47,   Shamokin over Jersey Shore 64-56, Sullivan County beat South Williamsport 61-53

BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS JANUARY 13, 2020

REWARD BEING OFFERED FOR INFO ABOUT HORSE SHOOTING
A reward is being offered for information that leads to the arrest of the person who shot a horse on private property on Woodley Hollow Road near Picture Rocks.  According to WNEP, Ted Baker’s neighbor called him at work last week to say his 19 year old horse, Romeo, had been hurt on the property, and it was later discovered he had been shot by a high powered rifle.  The reward is at $2000 at this time for information leading to the arrest of the shooter, but donations continue to raise that amount.  Call Montoursville State Police if you know anything about the incident.

PERSONNEL CHANGING UP IN WILLIAMSPORT CITY
In Williamsport City personnel matters last week, the general manager of River Valley Transit and city engineer are no longer employed by the city.  Mayor Derek Slaughter told the Williamsport Sun Gazette that William E. Nichols Jr., who has worked for the city for 40 years and was paid the highest salary, as well as Mark Benner, a former civil engineer with streets and parks department, were let go in a manner consistent with the city’s human resource policy.  Officials on City Council said they are first focused on a smooth transition at River Valley Transit for day-to-day operations and decision making moving forward.

ELECTION DAY IS APRIL 28, 2020
It’s time for members of the Commonwealth to start thinking about election day.  The primary is set for Tuesday April 28th Candidates will be seeking the nomination for US President as well as Congress and State offices including the 12th House seat held by U.S. Rep. Fred Keller, Republican from Kreamer, and the 15th House seat of U.S. Rep. Glenn Thompson, republican from Howard. The 23rd Senate seat held by Gene Yaw and the 83rd and 84th House seats of Jeff Wheeland and Garth Everett, are also up for grabs.  April 13th is the last day to register to vote before the primary.

WEEKEND TEMPS BROKE THE RECORD
The temperatures broke records over the weekend, but we’re going to see it get back to normal again real soon according to the National Weather service.  The high of 65 degrees yesterday broke the record set in 2018 at 64, but normal temperatures are typically 27 degree on average.  A wintry mix could hit some areas of north central PA by the weekend, with tomorrow morning seeing a low of 31 and rain in the forecast – but no significant precipitation is expected.

FATAL ATV ACCIDENT IN NORTHUMBERLAND COUNTY
A teenager from South Central PA died in Northumberland County Sunday afternoon after a tragic ATV accident in Lower Mahanoy Township.  According to WNEP, 18-year-old Coleton Gessner of Elizabethville in Dauphin County died from severe head injuries after he lost control and went over a wooded embankment.  The Northumberland County Coroner said he was not wearing a helmet. The accident was on a farm on Cemetery Road, which is near Hickory Corners and County Line.

TRACTOR TRAILER HITS HOUSE
There are reports of a tractor-trailer that smashed into a home Sunday night in Columbia County.  Police say the big rig veered off of Thunderbird Road near Benton and hit a house around 7:30pm.  However, Police say the family there was lucky that no one was hurt in the crash.  Police are investigating the incident.

CHARGES IN VIRAL VIDEO OF ANIMAL CRUELTY
The PA Game Commission has charged two young men from Brookville with multiple felony aggravated cruelty counts after their role in a viral video of them allegedly kicking a deer that they had shot on family property.  According to game commission officials, 18 year old Alexander Brock Smith and a 17 year old juvenile were in an enclosed tree stand November 30th in Jefferson County.   The juvenile shot and wounded the buck but the two then allegedly held the deer down and kicked it before it died.  A video of the incident was shared on social media and viewed thousands of times.  Public outcry lead to the investigation by the PA Game commission, in which Smith may face up to seven years in jail and fines on each felony count.  He was arraigned and released on $50,000 unsecured bail.

BUTTER SCULPTURE WILL BE RECYCLED
The 1000 pound Pennsylvania Dairy Butter sculpture featured  at the 2020 Farm Show has been dismantled and will now be taken for recycling.  Accordinng to the Times Herald, this year’s theme for the butter was “East Meets West at the Pennsylvania Farm Show,” featuring the state’s sports mascots tailgating with dairy foods.  The inedible butter goes to Reinford Farms in Mifflintown in Juniata County, where it will be recycled in the farm’s methane digester and converted into renewable energy to power the dairy farm.  Reinford Farms has been recognized for achievements in sustainability in the state.
Sports
NFL Saturday
NFC Division Playoffs – 49ers beat the Vikings 27-10, Titans beat the Ravens 28 to 12
NFL Sunday
AFC Division Playoffs – Chiefs beat the Texans 51 to 31 and Packers defeated the Seahawks 28 to 23
Next Sunday, January 19 – AFC Championship for Tennessee in Kansas City at 3pm, and in the NFC Championship, Green Bay plays San Francisco at 6:40pm

NBA
Jazz beat the Wizards 127 to 116, Knicks beat the Heat 124 to 121, the Spurs over the Raptors 105 to 104, Grizzlies beat the Warriors 122 to 102, Nets over the Hawks 108 to 86, Nuggets beat the Clippers 114 to 104, and the Suns beat the Hornets 100 to 92

HS Boys Basketball – Sunday
Loyalsock beat Saint John Neumann 102 to 86

Men’s Basketball
Morrisville State beat Penn College 76 to 71,
Women’s Basketball
Morrisville State over Penn College 71 to 63

College Wrestling
Penn State defeated Northwestern 30 to 9

BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS JANUARY 10, 2020

HOME BURNS DISPLACES FAMILY OF FOUR
A home was lost and four people displaced after fire engulfed a home along the 8900 block of Route 220n north of Picture Rocks.  According to the Sun Gazette, Jonathan and Ariel Drummond and their two children escaped the blaze Thursday afternoon that fire officials say started by a candle on a dresser in a bedroom.  Firefighters from multiple units arrived after 1pm to flames shooting from a second story window.  The Picture Rocks Assistant Fire Chief ordered the building evacuated at around 1:40 due to potential structural collapse of the attic of the house.  It took 90 minutes and 20 thousand gallons of water to control the blaze, but the home was a total loss.  Route 220 was closed in both directions until just after 5 p.m.  The American Red Cross is reportedly assisting the familyof 4.

DEFENDANT IN ABUSE CASE SEEKS TO SUPRESS EVIDENCE
A man who is co-defendant in an abuse case with a Williamsport woman recently asked to have evidence suppressed in a drug possession case from 2018.  According to the Sun Gazette, Grant Wright, of 2109 Central Ave, is now married to his co-defendant, Maria Sweeting, who was recently incarcerated for failing drug tests from her legal case.  Wright is facing charges allegedly of abusing their infant in February of 2019.  Lawyers in the case asked President Judge Nancy Butts to derive an opinion and order.  Wright has not yet been scheduled for any pre-trial hearings.

FIRST COUNCIL MEETING FOR SLAUGHTER AS MAYOR
Williamsport City Council met Thursday in their first meeting under Mayor Derek Slaughter.  According to the Sun Gazette, four new members attended the meeting David Banks, Adam Yoder, Jon Mackey and Vincent Pulizzi, and Slaughter told the group that he looked forward to working together on behalf of the city.  The mayor also told the paper that he was working through the process of naming an administrative team.  Personnel and legal matters were addressed at an executive session after the regular meeting yesterday.

FARM SHOW WEEKEND
The Pennsylvania Farm Show  in Harrisburg is about to end this weekend.  Today is Pork Day on the Pa. Preferred Culinary Connection stage, so go there for the tastings and demonstrations. Saturday at 2:30 is the Lumberjack Competition and get tickets for any of the three days of the First Frontier Circuit Finals Rodeo in the New Holland Arena.  The PA Farm Show runs until 5 p.m. tomorrow.  Admission is free – parking is $15

WOMAN ARRESTED AFTER PICKING UP UP CASH DROPPED BY A CUSTOMER
A woman working as a cashier at a local store has been charged for pocketing an envelope of money dropped by a customer.  47 year old Kym R. Bonnell, was working at the River Avenue Weis market in October of this year she picked it u p the $480 cash dropped by a shopper and put it in her pocket.  Montoursville State Police say Bonnell admitted during an interview that she took the money.  She had a preliminary hearing December 23rd.  Her case was waived for court and a formal arraignment for theft charges is set for Monday.

COMMS CHANGE STAFF, SALARY STRUCTURE
The Lycoming County Comissioners made some changes including a reduction in staff and a restructuring of salaries for elected row officers and other personnel.  The Commissioners agreed to remove positions for an assistant district attorney, and one full and one part-time clerk.  According to the Sun Gazette, newly elected District Attorney Ryan Gardner requested the restructuring which added two assistant county detectives.  Commissioner Tony Mussare said adding two detectives will help reduce the monthly case backlog while fighting crime. The detectives have not been hired at this time.

BUCKNELL STUDENTS IN PUERTO RICO ARE SAFE
Bucknell University spokesman Mike Ferlazzo has told local media outlets that the  20 students and three staff  who were in Puerto Rico when an earthquake hit this week are safe and staying in a retreat house about two hours from the epicenter .  Je saod the time spent working in the school’s “Building Global Solidarity Puerto Rico Immersion Program” has been cut short.   The 6.4-magnitude earthquake which struck Tuesday, killed one person, injured nine others and severely damaged infrastructure in Puerto Rico’s southwest coast.

MORE FARM SHOW
The Pennsylvania Farm Show & Expo wraps up this weekend but the blue ribbons are still being awarded this week – especially in the rabbits category. According to the Daily item Rita Cluck, of Richfield; Suzanne Thomas, of Danville and Danita Stoltzfus, of Mount Pleasant Mills, received the most accolades. Wednesday, Montour County-based Time Warp won first place as champion shearer and the Weaver’s Award in the Sheep to Shawl competition.  The Farm Show ends tomorrow AT 5PM.  Details at farmshow.pa.gov
Sports
NBA
76’ers beat the Celtics 109 to 98, Cavaliers beat the Pistons 115 to 112, Timberwolves beat the Trailblazers 116 to 102, Thunder beat the Rockets 113 to 92
NHL
Bruins beat the Jets 5 to 4, Oilers over the Canadians 4 to 2, Lightning over the Coyotes 4- nothing, Panthers beat the Canucks 5 to 2, Rangers beat the Devils 6 to 3, Blues over the Sabres 5 to 1, Predators beat the Blackhawks 5 to 2, Flames over Wild 2 to 1, Kings defeated Golden Knights 5 to 2, Stars over the Ducks 3-nothing, Sharks beat the Blue Jackets 3-1
HS Wrestling
South Williamsport over Bloomsburg 54 to 17, Mifflin County over Central Mountain 37 to 18, Montoursville over Loyalsock 84 nothing, Muncie beat Sullivan County 54-21, Montgomery over Sugar Valley 58-18, Southern Columbia over Hughesville 53-15, Wyalusing beat Williams 60-15, Milton over Jersey Shore 45-26
HS Girls Basketball
Loyalsock (10- 0) beat Southern Columbia 56-52, Wellsboro over Cowanaesque Valley 40-34, Troy beat North Penn Liberty 39-36, Towanda beat Canton 59-28, Swimming
Girls – Lewisburg over Jersey Shore 58-43 Lewisburg over Montoursville 90 to 4
Boys – Lewisburg over Jersey Shore 60-34, Lewisburg over Montoursville 58-31, North Penn Mansfield over Williamson  71-16
Women’s basketball
Penn State beat Michigan State 86-73

BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS JANUARY 9, 2020

MAN SEEKING “DEATH BY COP” INJURES TROOPERS
A man who provoked two state troopers with knives wanting to die by suicide by cop, injured the two officers and was taken into custody this week.  According to the Daily Item, Michael W. Hartzell, of Pepper Hills Road in Cooper Township, was throwing knives at family members, who then called police around 7pm Tuesday. After Cpl. Joshua Herman and Tpr. James Gutierrez arrived on the scene Hartzell struggled with them during handcuffing and the officers arms were cut.   Hartzell was arraigned in Millville District court and committed to the Montour County Jail in lieu of $125,000 bail.

ACTIVE SHOOTER TRAINING AT BLOOMSBURG
Residents near Bloomsburg University heard gunfire from a simulated gunfire training exercise on campus yesterday afternoon after 1pm, according to Bloomsburg University Director of Communication Tom McGuire.  According to WBRE, The training was offered by Louisiana State University National Center for Biomedical Research and Training and is congressionally funded so it can be offered for free 47 people spent the day at a ‘Run, Fight, Hide’ training, learning what to do if they ever faced an active shooter.

COUNCIL WILL REVIEW PROPOSAL OF LEGAL SERVICES
On the agenda for Williamsport City Council meeting tonight is a review of resolutions that include a proposal to name a primary tax appeal hearing officer.  According to the Sun Gazette, some council members reviewed the proposal and some say it will provide better and local tax collection for residents and businesses.  They will consider local attorney Fred Holland, as well as consider the retention of the law firm, Murphy, Butterfield and Holland for potential future legal services at $150 an hour bringing it back in-house instead of hiring a service at 55 thousand dollars  a year for 7 years.

WARMING CENTER OPENS FOR THE HOMELESS
An overnight warming center opened up this week for a third year to serve the homeless in Williamsport.  First United Methodist Church will provide those in need with food and a safe sleeping space through the winter until March 13th with the Code Blue Warming Center.  According to the Sun Gazette, the center opens at 9pm each night through 7:30am where volunteers staff the facility and provide food for those who stay.  The church also assists the American Rescue Workers when they are at capacity, taking referrals each evening.

LAWMAKER UNVEILS AG LEGISLATION FARM SHOW
Yesterday during elected officials day at the PA Farm Show, Agriculture Secretary Russell Redding announced the opening of the last 2019 PA Farm Bill grant, the $1 million Farm Vitality Grant Program aiming  to enhance the long-term health and vitality of Pennsylvania’s family farms.  It’s Veterans, Military & Their Families Day today at the 104th Annual Farm Show in Harrisburg.  The Farm Show runs through Satuday Janaury 11th and admission is free with paid parking.

BENTON WOMAN KILLED IN ACCIDENT
One woman was killed and a man injured after an accident in Columbia County Tuesday.  Victoria Dawson of Benton was killed when 33-year-old Jason Musselman of Benton was on Green Creek Road around 10:30am when he lost control and went off the road and hit a tree.  Benton was pronounced dead by a local coroner and Musselman was flown to Geisinger and is in critical condition.  According to State police, Medevac based in Altoona and the Geisinger EMS plus  volunteers from Benton and Millville fire companies assisted at the scene.

PENNDOT JOB FAIR COMING NEXT WEEK
There will be another PennDOT job fair  and open house next Wednesday at the PennDOt Engineeering Offic on Jordan Avenue in Montoursville.  Come to talk about a career with the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation and see the Design, Construction, and Maintenance units displays and demonstrations, plus info on current projects and job opportunities.  The job fair and open house is1pm to 8pm on January 15th and is  available to persons with disabilities, those who need assistance cancontact the PennDOT District 3-0 office at 570-368-4204.

CAC NAMES NEW EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
There is a new Executive Director coming aboard at the Community Arts Center in Williamsport.  According to a press release from CAC, Chuck Still, is formerly the founding executive director of Midtown Arts and Theater Center Houston in Houston, Texas, and will bring his 30 years of expertise and a variety of new shows and new programs to the community.  Still said he hopes to make positive changes to the theater and continue to be one of the premiere cultural organizations in the area.
THREE PIZZA PLACES IN PENNSYLVANIA IN THE TOP 25
A travel website ranks three area pizza places as the top 25 best pizza shops in Pennsylvania.  Big Seven Travel dot com ranked Williamsport’s The Stonehouse at number 8, and Bart’s Pizzeria also  in Williamsport is at 13, and Mifflin Pizza in Mifflinville came in at number 23. According to their website, rankings were based on critical and editorial opinions, presentation, dollar value, atmosphere, and online customer reviews.

Sports
NBA
Raptors beat the Hornets  112 to 110, Heat beat the Pacers 122 to 108, Spurs beat the Celtics 129 to 114, Magic beat the Wizards 123 to 89, Nuggets beat the Mavericks 107 to 106, Rockets beat the Hawks 122 to 115, Pelicans beat the Bulls 123 to 108, Jazz beat the Knicks 128 to 104, and Bucks beat the Warriors 107 to 98
NHL
Jets beat the Maple Leafs 4 to 3, Flyers over the Capitals 3 to 2, and Stars beat the Kings 2 to 1
Men’s basketball
Lock Haven beat Mansfield 79 to 59, Albright beat Lycoming 73 to 68
Women’s basketball
Lock Haven beat Mansfield 76 to 47, Albright beat Lycoming 92 to 88 (OT)
HS Girls Basketball
Montoursville beat Midd-West 59 to 42, Central Columbia beat Warrior Run 46 to 37, Mount Carmel beat Hughesville 50 to 28
HS Boys Basketball
Wellsboro beat Sayre 80 to 42, Mount Carmel over Hughesville 58 to 52, North Penn Liberty defeated Towanda 63 to 33, North Penn Mansfield beat Williamson 68 to 28, and Troy beat Canton 59 to 55

BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS JANUARY 8, 2020

SNOW SQUALL CONDITIONS CLOSE SOME AREA SCHOOLS
Snow Squalls hit our area today just in time for the morning commute.  Up to five inches of snow fell across North Central PA after 5am and many school districts that started with 2 hour delays changed over to complete closures as the weather kept roadways treacherous through mid-morning.  According to PennDOT, there is a snow squall warning throughout the day.   Stay up to date with all delays and closings through WILQ’s Operation Snowflake, WBZD’s Operation Snow Scan Report, or WZXR’s Computer Link Snow Scan Report.  If you do encounter a snow squall while driving, Slow down gradually and drive at a speed that suits conditions, stay in your lane, turn lights and four-way flashers on and do not stop in the flow of traffic since this could cause a chain-reaction collision.

MAN ARRESTED IN DEATH OF 19 MONTH-OLD
A young man from Old Lycoming Township has been charged in the death of his girlfriend’s 19 month old baby.  According to the Sun Gazette, Jason Micah Forsyth, of Misner Road was the last person in physical contact with Alyssa Carpenter’s son, Ky’Mani Moore, while he was alive.  Forsyth was caring for the child on December 20th and the next day, Forsyth told the mother Moore was not responding. The baby was later pronounced dead at Williamsport Regional.  According to autopsy reports Moore had contusions to the head and healing fractures.  Forsyth who is incarcerated for unrelated charges will have a preliminary hearing next Wednesday.

POLICE CHARGE WOMAN FOR SPEEDING AND LYING TO OFFICERS
A Middleburg woman is in trouble for lying to police to get out of a speeding ticket.  According to North Central Pa dot com, 21 year old Lacee Barben was stopped in Limestone Township for going 63 in a 40 mile per hour zone and told police she was hurrying because her father had committed suicide.  Barben contacted family members and when police investigated her story, she admitted her attempt to get out of the ticket.  Barben was charged with a summary of disorderly conduct and pled guilty to the charges in Mifflinburg district court..

FORMER SHIKELLAMY DISTRICT ADMINISTRATOR PASSES
A former beloved administrator from Shikellamy passed away yesterday in South Carolina.  Brett Misavage passed away Tuesday morning in South Carolina after a recent move there.  According to the Daily Item Because of health issues  Misavage was approved for a sabbatical in June 2018.  He became superintendent in December of  2016 and was also formerly  principal at Chief Shikellamy Elementary School for 15 years.

FARM SHOW RECOGNIZES GOVERNMENT OFFICIALS TODAY
Today is Public Officials day at the 104th annual Pennsylvania Farm Show.  The goal of Public Officials Day at the Farm Show is to further strengthen the relationship between those in agriculture and those in government at the local, state and federal levels.   IN entertainment, there’s an antique tractor pull at 4pm and the sheep to shawl competition goes on tonight at 6:30.  The Farm Show in Harrisburg goes through this Saturday afternoon. Admission is free and parking is $15.  Get details online at farmshow.pa.gov.

CELL PHONE BAN LAW APPROVED IN PENNSYLVANIA HOUSE
A bipartisan bill to ban cell phone use in the Commonwealth by the PA House Transportation Committee recently received approval.  Twenty other states also ban the hadn-held devices. According to representatives in Allegheny county, the current law  bans texting while driving, but the language needs to include all types of cellphone use. Versions of this bill have failed repeatedly over the last several years, but some say it’s gaining bipartisan support.

PA SENATOR WILL CHAIR CHESAPEAKE BAY COMMISSION
Sen. Gene Yaw of the 23rd District will now oversee the policy making efforts of the 21 member Tri-state Chesapeake Bay Commission or CBC, for 2020.  According to a press release,  Yaw is the first member and chairman of the CBC to have a legislative district that covers the northernmost part of the watershed to the New York border.  The Chesapeake Bay Commission is a policy leader in the restoration of the Chesapeake Bay.

PA STATE REPRESENTATIVE EVERETT TO RETIRE
State Representative for the 84th Legislative District, Garth Everett has announced  his retirement and a local man has announced his candidacy for the post.  According to the Sun Gazette, Jersey Shore Borough Manager Joe Ham­­­m will throw his hat into the ring for the opportunity.  Hamm, with a reputation for being a positive local leader in Hepburn Township and other areas, is a combat war veteran and was a member of the Pennsylvania Army National Guard.  He is a graduate of Lock Haven University, where he studied political science.
Sports
NBA
Pistons beat the Cavaliers 115 to 113, Trailblazers beat the Raptors 101 to 99, Thunder beat the Nets 111 to 103, Grizzlies beat the Timberwolves 119 to 112, Kings beat the Suns 114 to 103, and Lakers beat the Knicks 117 to 87

NHL
Lightning beat the Canucks 9 to 2, Coyotes over the Panthers 5 to 2, Islanders over the Devils 4 to 3, Capitals beat the Senators 6 to 1, Hurricanes over the Flyers 5 to 4, Rangers over Avalanche 5 to 3, Red Wings beat the Canadiens 4 to 3, Blues over Sharks 3 to 2, Bruins beat the Predators 6-2, Flames over the Blackhawks 2 to 1, Penguins beat the Golden Knights 4 to 3, and Blue Jackets over the Ducks 4 to 3

HS Boys Basketball
Montoursville beat Midd-west 72 to 26, Loyalsock beat Central Columbia 67 to 55, Bloomsburg beat South Williamsport 59 to 39, Millville beat Montgomery 47 to 32, HS Girls Basketball
Canton beat Wellsboro 38 to 37 Wyalusing beat north Penn Mansfield 48 to 36, Northern Potter beat Galeton 42 to 32
HS Wrestling
Warrior Run over Lewisburg 48-26, Benton over Montgomery 67-6, Canton beat South Williamsport 48-17, Athens over Williamson 63 to 12, Hughesville beat Jersey Shore 34 to 31
Swimming – Girls Williamsport beat Bloomsburg 104 to 82 , Boys – Williamsport over Bloomsburg 87-75

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