BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS AUGUST 23, 2024

CITY WOMEN ARRESTED FOR DRUG POSSESSION, DISTRIBUTION

Two women in Williamsport have been charged with possession of a large amount of cocaine after a search by officers from the Lycoming County Narcotics Unit.  Officers searched the apartment shared by 51 year old Alicia Gundrum and 29 year old Britney Williams, and both women took ownership of the drug that was found in William’s purse, saying Gundrum set up the drug deal,  and purchased the substance from her.  They are being charged with conspiracy to deliver and delivery a controlled substance , and are both free on $50,000 unsecured bail.

SKILL GAME VOUCHER THEFTS

State police at Selinsgrove are investigating the theft of skilled game vouchers in Penn Township.  According to North Central PA dot com, the location of the Penn Township theft has not been released, but police say 200 hundred dollars in damage was done to gaming machines during the theft.  Records show that they are owned by an unidentified man from Hazelton and that the thefts occurred between June 7th and July 20th of this year.

CONSTRUCTION OF TEMPORARY ROADWAYS START IN TROUT RUN

Construction begins this weekend on a temporary roadway in Trout Run, Lewis Township to connect Route 14 to Lycoming Creek Road while they work on the bridge replacement design for over Trout Run.  According to  PennDOT, Saturday the contractor will mobilize equipment to start the project which will provide north and south roadway changes.  The South Connector will have a temporary traffic signal at the intersection with Route 14, Lycoming Creek Road, and Mill Street.  For the North Connector, a stop sign in all directions at the intersection of Route 14, Lycoming Creek Road, and Trout Run Mountain Road, with improvements expected to accommodate turn movements.  Watch for flaggers on the scene during the construction.

LITTLE LEAGUE WRAPS UP THIS WEEKEND

Williamsport’s weekend is set up to reflect upon and celebrate Little League champions as the two week World Series event comes to a close with the Little league World Series between the US Champion Little League team and the International team, Sunday at 3pm at Lamade Stadium and on ABC.  Even with the unfortunate cancellation of  Hall of Fame pitcher Tom  Glavine’s appearance at Williamsport Welcomes the World Festival downtown tonight, the street festival is expected to be a fun time for the community and little league teams who  have had the privilege to earn the experience.  Backyard Broadcasting will be there at 5pm with a prize pack and music to kick off the weekend.

COUPLE FROM EASTERN PA ARRESTED FOR THEFT IN LEWSBURG

A couple from eastern Pennsylvania were recently arrested for a theft of over 900 dollars in items from the Walmart in Lewisburg July 29th.  According to North Central PA dot com, 31 year old Felicia Marie Schmidt of Williamstown, and 36 year old Brandon M. Smith, of Dallas were seen on surveillance footage concealing items, leaving through the garden center and getting into a grey Chevy SUV.  State police investigated the incident and found the owner of the SUV was a woman from Williamstown who described Schmidt as a person she knew and didn’t know who had her car at the time– this led to Schmidt’s arrest.  The same woman identified Smith through Facebook pictures.  The pair were charged with misdemeanor retail theft and conspiracy retail theft charges with a preliminary hearings on September 19th .  A third suspect who has not yet been identified was seen with the others during the theft. 

DUMP TRUCK ACCIDENT IN CLINTON TOWNSHIP

There was an accident this week in Clinton Township in which a dump truck drove off the roadway and hit a tree and utility pole.  According to the Sun Gazette, police are now investigating the circumstance surrounding the crash that happened Wednesday about 3pm near the 1000 block of Brouse Road.  Fire Officials from Clinton Township responded along with State Police.  The driver suffered injuries and was transported to Evangelical Community Hospital.

WEIGHT RESTRICTIONS MODIFIED IN LAMAR TOWNSHIP

PennDOT has posted a weight restriction of 30 tons for single vehicles and 40 tons for combination vehicles on a Route 477 bridge spanning Long Run near Rote in Lamar Township, Clinton County this week, and will be in place until a bridge replacement in 2025. The weight for the bridge was restricted after following an inspection earlier this month. The prior  weight restrictions were brought about in 2014  The 40-foot structure, originally built in 1937, carries an average of 2,519 vehicles daily, and its overall condition rating is fair.

CENTRE COUNTY GRANGE FAIR CONCLUDES THIS WEEKEND

It’s the last days of the Centre County Grange fair, the only remaining tenting fair in the US – following a 150 year tradition.  Today, enjoy the first of the two-day Pro Pulling League East Coast pulling event with Super Stock, pro stock tractors, and Mods. Saturday, donate canned and dry goods for Food Bank day and enjoy a performance from Jet Jurgensmeyer in the Grandstand at 8.  At 9pm Saturday night, the fair concludes with the Final Grange Fair raffle jackpot drawing.  Get details at grange fair dot com.

SPORTS

Little League World Series Thursday
Game 33: Venezuela 3   Japan 2
Game 34: Florida 6        Nevada 3
Today: Little League Challenger Team Practice @ Original Field on West 4th Street 4pm
Saturday
Challenger Division Exhibition Game
Manalapan Township Little League, NJ vs California District 68 10:30am Volunteer/WVIA
International Championship

Game 35: Chinese Taipei vs Venezuela, 12:30 p.m. Lamade/ABC
US Championship
Game 36: Texas vs Florida, 3:30 p.m. Lamade/ABC
Sunday
3rd Place Game 10 a.m. ESPN2
Little League World Series Championship
3 p.m. ABC

MLB Draft League
Frederick Keys swept the series with a win over Williamsport Crosscutters last night 4-1
Cutters are at home tonight against the State College Spikes at Journey Bank Ballpark/Historic Bowman field 6:35pm first pitch.

MLB
Yankees  6  Guardians  0
Nationals  8  Rockies  3
Pirates  7  Reds  0
Astos  6  Orioles  0
Braves  3  Phillies  2
Mets  8  Padres  3
MLB Tonight
Pirates  vs  Reds  6:40pm AppleTv
Rockies vs Yankees 7:05pm
Astros  vs Orioles  7:05pm
Nationals  vs Braves   7:20pm
Phillies vs Royals 8:10pm
Mets  vs Padres  9:40pm

High School Football Friday Night
BYB Game of the Week(1)
Wyoming Valley West @Williamsport  6:30 Pre-Game/7pm Kick-off
With Jake and Bob tonight on the Twin Valley’s Talk Radio NetworkNASCAR Saturday
Coke Zero Sugar 400
Daytona International Speedway
6:30pm PreRace/7:30 green flag racing
Twin Valley’s Talk Radio Network/WILQ’s HD3

BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS AUGUST 22, 2024

BERWICK WOMAN KILLED IN MOTORCYCLE ACCIDENT

A detour was set up along Route 11 in Montour Township after a woman passenger on a motorcycle was hit from behind and killed Tuesday afternoon.  According to North Central PA dot com, 36 year old Ruth Persing’s husband was driving the bike along Route 11 near Division Street in Columbia County and slowed to take a turn when an SUV type vehicle rear-ended the couple.  Persing, who was not wearing a helmet was thrown from the bike and sustained fatal injuries.  Montour Township police are currently investigating the incident and will release more information when available.

SUSPECT WANTS BAIL MODIFIED TO ATTEND BROTHER’S  FUNERAL

The Sunbury man whose attempted homicide case was declared a mistrial last week, but is still incarcerated on intimidation of a witness charge in February, is asking the judge in Northumberland County Court to reset his 100 thousand dollar bail so he can attend a funeral. According to the Daily Item, Anthony Moultrie’s brother, Dayveon Creel was shot and killed last week.  Moultrie and co-defendant, Franky Riche, are accused of shooting at a vehicle in June 2022.  Sunbury police have charged 25 year old Denarii Springs, who is at large, with homicide, for the death of Creel.

LEWISBURG STUDENT DIES OF SHORT TERM ILLNESS

The first week of school at Lewisburg Middle is a little sadder today after the school administration announced the death of 8th grader Jaxon Snyder Monday evening.  In the statement, they said Jaxon touched the lives of everyone who had the privilege of knowing him and he will be missed by all those who had the honor of calling him friend. A Go Fund me account has been set up for the Snyder’s, and a community meal train is also set up so the community can better support the family.  Counseling sessions have been available this week at the school for students who want support.

HOF PITCHER FORCED TO CANCEL APPEARANCE

The Williamsport Lycoming Chamber of Commerce has announced that Hall of Fame Pitcher and guest for the Williamsport Welcomes the World festival, Tom Glavine has notified them that an important family matter occurred and he will not be able to travel here  for his appearance this Friday.  He shared his disappointment, saying he was a Little Leaguer, too and wanted to meet the players in person. The public is encouraged to watch social media pages and their email inboxes for a rescheduling of Glavine’s appearance in the near future in Williamsport. According to Jason Fink, CEO of the Williamsport Lycoming Chamber of Commerce, the Champion Luncheon scheduled for tomorrow at the Genetti is postponed.

WOMAN FACES DUI CHARGES FROM SEPARATE INCIDENTS

A woman will face a maximum of 8 years in prison after her sentencing for several DUI charges against her in Clinton County Court. According to North Central PA dot com, 43 year old Karen Mace was charged with DUI in October of 2023, after she arrived at a court hearing for bad checks with a minor passenger while under the influence – she was jailed through November.  Mace was then charged with another DUI in January after witnesses at Renovo Elementary said she was visibly impaired near the school.  She was denied bail at that time and recently requested a county sentence with consideration for time served.  The judge instead said Mace’s best chance for success was treatment at the State Drug Treatment Program offered through the Department of Corrections.  

CATERER DEFRAUDS CLIENT AFTER CANCELLING DAY OF EVENT

The owner of a Williamsport catering company is facing theft by deception charges along with deceptive business practices, for cancelling a catering job the morning of the event and not returning the money.  According to the Sun Gazette, 47 year old William Welch allegedly failed to fulfill a contract for a wedding event in October of 2023 .  In an affidavit, City police say none of the previously agreed-upon services were fulfilled between Welch and his former client.  He was arraigned this week and arrainged on 5 thousand dollars bail.

FLICK TO HOST HUMAN SERVICES EXPO

There will be a 2nd annual Human Services Expo and Speaker Series hosted by State Rep. Jamie Flick Thursday, Sept. 12 at Penn College.  According to the Representative, the free, public event will help connect attendees with services, programs, and support systems to help themselves and their families thrive from agencies such as the National Alliance on Mental Illness , Roads to Freedom Center for Independent Living, Hope Enterprises, and the Pennsylvania Department of Military and Veterans Affairs.  Retired Army Master Sergeant Kevin Bittenbender, Rep. Tarik Khan, and Alivia Tagliaferri will be the featured speakers at 2pm prior to the expo with vendors and light refreshments that will begin at 4pm. Register at  repflick.com/events.

CADETS CAN EARN COLLEGE CREDIT AT CU AFTER THE ACADEMY

Commonwealth University will offer college credits at all their campuses to Cadets from the Pennsylvania State Police Academy after they complete their training.  According to North Central PA dot com, Cadets can receive 20 CU credits if they are enrolled in a criminal justice degree program at Bloomsburg, Lock Haven, Mansfield, and Clearfield.  In addition to earning credits, after graduating from the 28 weeks at the state police academy, cadets are promoted to trooper and receive an increase in salary, currently set at $66,911 annually.  CU president Bashar W. Hanna says the agreement between CU and the PA State Police puts the success of students first.

SPORTS

Little League World Series
Florida  4            Hawaii  3
Venezuela  11     Mexico  3
Texas  5               Nevada 2
(after a rain delay) Chinese Taipei  3       Japan  1

Little League World Series Today
Japan vs Venezuela 3pm Lamade
Little league Home Run Derby  5pm Volunteer
Nevada vs Florida  7pm Lamade

The international and U.S. championship games – Saturday, Aug. 24 at 12:30pm and 3:30pm
The third-place consolation game will take place Sunday – 10am.
The LLWS championship – Sunday, at 3 p.m. ET.

MLB Draft League
The Williamsport Crosscutters rallied to tie the games against the Frederick Keys in the 9th inning, but fell in sudden death last night in MD.
They’ll try again in Game 3 tonight on the road, @7pm and return tomorrow to Williamsport’s Journey Bank Ballpark/Historic Bowman Field.  6:35pm first pitch

MLB
Yankees 8           Guardians 1
Mets  4                Orioles 3
Rangers   1          Pirates  0
Nationals 6         Rockies 1
Phillies  3            Braves  2
MLB Today
Guardians vs Yankees  :05pm
Nationals  vs Rockies  1:05pm
Pirates vs  Reds  6:40pm
Astros  vs Orioles  7:08pm
Philles  vs Braves  7:08pm FOX
Mets  vs Padres 9:40pm

NASCAR
Richard Childress Racing’s initial appeal of NASCAR’s penalty against driver Austin Dillon was denied Wednesday by the National Motorsports Appeals Panel.

The panel upheld NASCAR’s ruling that Dillon’s victory August 11th at Richmond Raceway would not count toward postseason eligibility. The No. 3 team was also docked 25 points in both the driver and owner championship standings.

Dillon was penalized for spinning race leader Joey Logano in Turn 3 on the final lap of overtime at Richmond Raceway and then right-hooking Denny Hamlin off Turn 4. 

BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS AUGUST 20, 2024

UBER DRIVER CHARGED AFTER ACCIDENT KILLS PASSENGER

The Hughesville UBER driver who had a fatal accident in Montour County that killed his passenger has been charged with homicide by vehicle while DUI.  According to North Central PA dot com, police say 45 year old Anthony Machi was driving  Yainyles Gomez from Williamsport to Wilkes-Barre on New Year’s Day of this year when he said a small animal ran in front of him on I-80 in Liberty Township, causing the accident that killed Gomez, who was not wearing a seatbelt.  Machi also admitted to police that he smoked marijuana daily.  Along with the homicide by vehicle, he is also charged with 2 counts of DUI and aggravated assault by vehicle and other charges.

WOMAN BEATS, ABANDONS CHILD AT GRAND SLAM PARADE

A Williamsport woman who police say beat her child and then abandoned him at the Grand Slam Parade has been charged with endangering the welfare of children, simple assault, and harassment.  According to North Central PA dot com, witnesses say 31 year old Dreena Natasha Reed punched her child near Elmira Street and W. Fourth Street and pulled him by the hair, and after the complaint was being sought by the police.  Several hours later, Reed was apprehended at the 400 block of Kramer Court.  She is being held in Lycoming County Prison on 35 thousand dollars bail.

SUMMER IMPROVEMENTS AT EAST LYCOMING

Needed improvements and repairs happened this summer at East Lycoming school district. According to the Sun Gazette, District superintendent, Mark Stamm,  said work was done at the High School, Ashkar and Renn Elementaries.  The buildings have been repainted with new wall murals and updated classrooms and some with a new HVAC system and new roofing, with Ashkar upgraded with a new electrical system. East Lycoming Students are back in session August 21st with plans to continue the exterior work at the school into September.

DMAP TAGS AVAILABLE FOR PA HOMEOWNERS

It’s possible for landowners to purchase Deer Management Assistance Program tags and contribute to the management of white tailed deer populations in Pennsylvania.  According to the Pennsylvania Game Commission, they are offering hunters 30,328 permits in 101 units totaling more than 1.3 million acres.  The program is a way to promote wildlife diversity and healthy deer populations and provide additional hunting opportunities.  Applicants for DMAP permits can go to dcnr.pa.gov for tract locations and maps, availability numbers as well as past hunter success rates. Twenty-six Pennsylvania state parks and 18 state forest districts are participating in the program.

ONE MAN BEING SOUGHT FOR SHOOTING OUTSIDE COURTHOUSE

The man accused of shooting a Sunbury man in front of the Northumberland County courthouse Thursday is on the loose after two other suspects were charged Friday morning.  According to the News Item, 36-year-old Denarii Springs of Northumberland is being sought by police after they say he killed Dayveon Creel of Sunbury.  Naseir Robinson of Sunbury, and Carnel Shelborne of Nescopeck are now in custody for charges of criminal conspiracy to commit murder and criminal conspiracy to commit aggravated assault.

MAN CHARGED WITH ARSON FOR INTENTIONALLY BURNING HOME

A man who purposefully burned down his mobile home to make room for new construction on his property is facing charges of disorderly conduct and failure to control or report dangerous fires and a summary count of arson. According to the Daily Item, 39 year old Matthew David Kreider of Mifflinburg, was on the scene when William Cameron Engine Fire Company responded to the fire at 6:30pm on March 24th of this year.  Charges were recently filed in Lewisburg against Kreider who told police then he never got a response from the New Berlin Fire Company after he told them about his plan.  Firefighters arrived to find the structure completely engulfed and worked to prevent it from spreading to the surrounding wooded area.  Kreider’s preliminary hearing is September 5th.

PUBLIC INPUT FOR NEW BUFFALO VALLEY REGIONAL POLICE CHIEF

The Buffalo Valley Regional Police Chief, Paul Yost, will be retiring this January and the commission is seeking input from the public as they go forward in a search for his replacement.  According to the Daily Item, Chief Yost, is the only chief in the department’s history since its formation in 2012 and created a tradition of public service that the community would like to maintain. A public survey on Facebook is available for community members to leave input.   Several applicants have already been contacted for an interview for the position. Get information at bvrpd.org.

GRANGE FAIR THIS WEEK IN CENTRE COUNTY

It’s collegiate day today at the Centre County Grange fair sponsored by Horizon Federal Credit Union, where college students pay half price with a valid college ID.  The Grange fair carries on a 150 year tradition and a home away from home with hundreds of tents and RV’s on site- the only remaining tenting fairt in the nation.  The fair in Centre Hall continues through this Saturday.  Find out details about the agriculture, rodeo and music events through Saturday –  which is also Military appreciation day – at grange fair.com.

It’s collegiate day today at the Centre County Grange fair sponsored by Horizon Federal Credit Union, where college students pay half price with a valid college ID.  The Grange fair carries on a 150 year tradition and a home away from home with hundreds of tents and RV’s on site- the only remaining tenting fairt in the nation.  The fair in Centre Hall continues through this Saturday.  Find out details about the agriculture, rodeo and music events through Saturday –  which is also Military appreciation day this weekend at grange fair.com.

SPORTS

Little League World Series
Delayed Game 20 yesterday Aruba defeated Australia 11-0
Japan def. Venezuela, 2-1
Nevada over Hawaii, 3-2
Chinese Taipei def. Cuba, 10-2
Texas def. Florida, 4-1

Little League Today Elimination Games
Aruba vs Venezuela  1pm Volunteer
Newtown PA  vs Hawaii  3pm  Lamade
Cuba vs Mexico  5pm Volunteer
Lake Mary, FL  vs Staten Island NY  7pm  Lamade

MLB
Mets  4                 Orioles  3
Rangers  4           Pirates  3
Astros  5              Red Sox  4
Dodgers  3          Mariners  0
MLB Today
Rockies vs Nationals  6:45pm
Guardians  vs Yankees  7:05pm
Orioles  vs Mets  7:10pm
Phillies vs Atlanta 7:20pm  TBS
Pirates  vs Rangers  8:05pm

NASCAR
*Tyler Reddick held off William Byron in overtime Monday afternoon to win the rain-delayed FireKeepers Casino 400 at Michigan International Speedway.
*Ty Gibbs was 3rd, Kyle Busch  4th and Brad Keselowski rounded out the top 5.

NCAA Football Saturday, August 24
Florida State and Georgia Tech  noon ESPN Dublin, IRE
Delaware State plays Hawaii in Honolulu  noon
Saturday, Aug. 31
Penn State vs West Virginia  noon ABC

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)

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