BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS JULY 12, 2024
FATAL ATV ACCIDENT IN BRADFORD COUNTY
A man from Rome, PA was killed in an ATV accident Saturday, July 6th near Windham, PA. According to State police at Towanda, 30 year old Nicholas Byrne suffered a fatal head injury when he failed to negotiate a left turn while driving his 2010 Yamaha Raptor and hit a tree on Hickeys Rocks Road, just north of Greek Road in Bradford County. Police say the accident happened around 10:30pm and that Byrne wasn’t wearing a helmet or any other safety equipment at the time of the crash and died from his injuries at the scene. The Warren Township Fire Department and the Bradford County Coroner assisted with the accident.
CHILD REPORTS ABUSE TO TROOPERS IN MONTOURSVILLE
A child from Montgomery went to the State police barracks July 4th and reported that her family member threw her and physically abused her, leading to the man’s arrest. According to North Central PA dot com, the victim showed police bruising on her ribs and foot from the altercation that took place at a home on Cemetery Hill Road. Troopers took 60 year old Anthony Maurice Kovaleski into custody and charged him with endangering the welfare of children, simple assault, and harassment. He is free today on 10 thousand dollars bail.
FOREVER STAMP PRICES GOING UP
The USPS has announced a price increase – again for forever stamps and other post office services. According to the Postal Regulatory Commission, this is the 19th stamp rate change since 2000 and the fifth rate hike in two years. Stamp prices are set to increase by 5 cents this month with certified mail and money order fees also set to increase. The price of a First-Class Mail Forever stamp will increase from 68 cents to 73 cents on July 14, and first class mail rates increasing by roughly 7.8%.
UPTOWN MUSIC COLLECTIVE TO PERFORM IN MUNCY
The Uptown Music Collective will be featured in Muncy at a mid-summer event called “Pops at Pepper Street” – a free-to-the-public concert coming up on August 3rd. According to the Muncy Historical Society, they’ll host the students from the UMC’s renowned performance program for a second year, and they will present music for all ages at the Schuyler Memorial Stadium on the Muncy Junior-Senior High School campus starting at 7pm. Free popcorn and other food will be available for purchase from the Muncy Music Association and Boy Scout Troop No. 25. In case of bad weather the concert will be held indoors. Get details at Muncy Historical Society’s Facebook page.
SUNBURY WOMAN WANTED FOR QUESTIONING IN NYC HOMICIDE
A woman from Pennsylvania is a person of interest in a homicide investigation in New York City, after the man she lives with in Sunbury was discovered stabbed to death in a Brooklyn apartment. According to the Daily Item, police say Maurice Freeman was seen arguing with the woman around 5:15 am Monday before she allegedly fled from the scene in a car registered to an address in Northumberland County. Police report a blood trail was found at 1491 Shore Parkway in the city, that went from the apartment where Freeman was discovered, across a street to a nearby park. Freeman was hospitalized but died from his injuries. The Sunbury Police Chief are diverting all questions about the case to the NYPD, and more information is expected to be released as the investigation continues.
TWO SHAMOKIN MEN ARRESTED FOR BREAKING IN, DRUG POSSESSION
Two men from Shamokin were arrested after witnesses called police as they were breaking into a property on North Shamokin Street. According to The news Item, 28 year old Logan C. Faust and 33 year old Zebulon J. Keefe were apprehended by police who were alerted to the break in at about 10 am Tuesday. K9 Pax from Coal Township was also called to the scene as well and officers discovered methamphetamine and drug paraphernalia on the two men. Faust and Keefer were charged with criminal trespass, drug possession, criminal mischief and disorderly conduct and are in Northumberland County Jail in lieu of $7,500 cash bail.
CHANGES FOR SOME LYCO POLLING SITES
Changes to some polling sites in Lycoming County were approved yesterday by Lycoming County Board of Elections as they work to bring all the sites into compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act. According to Forrest Lehman, director of Voter Services, one long term change is for Anthony Township to move their polling site to Anthony Baptist Church at 4750 Quenshukeny Road, and Wards 3 and 4 in the Jersey Shore Borough will now vote at the Mountain View Alliance Church at 1515 Cemetery Street. Get information about polling locations at lyco.org under voter services.
REPAVING PROJECT TO HAPPEN SUNDAY OVERNIGHT
There will be overnight resurfacing work starting Sunday on Route 87 in Montoursville Borough, Fairfield Township, Upper Fairfield Township, and Plunketts Creek Township. According to Penn DOT, there will be milling and paving along Route 87 between the 180 overpass in Montoursville Borough and Snyder’s Country Pet Food between the hours of 9pm and 6am. Watch for single lane conditions with flaggers on the scene overnight through the work zone.
SPORTS
MLB Draft League
Thunder 2 Crosscutters 1
The Cutters dropped Game 3 in the series with Thunder this week, but have a 20-8 record for the first half of the season and head out to West Virginia tonight for a two-game road trip.
MLB
Tigers 10 Guardians 1
Mets 7 Nationals 0
Pirates 1 Brewers 0
Phillies 5 Dodgers 1
Cubs 8 Orioles 0
Rays 5 Yankees 4
MLB Tonight
Oakland A’s vs Phillies 6:40pm
Guardians vs Rays AppleTv
Yankees vs Orioles 7:05 ESPN+
Pirates vs White Sox 8:10pm
Nationals vs Brewers 8:10pm
NASCAR Sunday
The Great American Getaway 400 presented by VisitPA.comPocono Raceway, Long Pond
1:30 PreRace Coverage/ 2:30 Green Flag racing
NBA News
* Kyle Lowry announced on Instagram on Thursday that he has agreed to remain with the Philadelphia 76ers. The deal is for one year, for Lowry to return to his hometown Sixers where he’ll shore up a veteran bench including Joel Embiid, Tyrese Maxey and Paul George.
* 38 year old Lowry joined Philadelphia in the spring after being bought out by the Charlotte Hornets, who had acquired him in a trade with the Miami Heat.
ESPY AWARDS
The 2024 ESPY Awards was hosted by tennis legend Serena Williams at the Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles lastnight
* They recognized the athletes who have died this year, including Willie Mays, Bill Walton and Jerry West.
* Legendary college football coach Nick Saban was given the ESPY icon award for all his achievements during his Alabama coaching tenure, including six national championships at Alabama, and with the one title he won at LSU, he has the most for any coach in NCAA Division I history.
* Special award presentations included the Arthur Ashe Award for Courage for Steve Gleason, the former NFL safety who had been diagnosed with ALS and gave an emotional acceptance speech. The Jimmy V Award for Perseverance was given toDawn Staley, South Carolina women’s basketball coach, and the Pat Tillman Award for Service was given to Prince Harry, the Duke of Sussex for his work on the Invictus Games that benefits wounded veterans.
BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS JULY 11, 2024
SUNBURY TEEN ARRESTED FOR THREATENING CLERK WITH A KNIFE
A teenager from Sunbury was taken into custody Sunday after he was seen on video surveillance stealing tobacco products from a convenience store and threatening the employee with a knife. According to North Central PA dot com, police say 17 year old Jonathon E. Bishop-Heshmat was seen inside the Penn Jersey Mart on North Fourth Street at about 10pm and that the clerk there suspected he was stealing items, and confronted the teenager. Bishop-Heshmat then took tobacco items, struck the clerk in the chest, and flashed a knife before he left the store. The teen was charged with felony robbery and aggravated assault, along with several misdemeanors. Bail was set at 25 thousand dollars with a preliminary hearing July 16th.
MAN FLEES SCENE OF A FIERY CRASH IN SHAMOKIN
An investigation has begun after a man from Shamokin fled from a fiery vehicle accident July 3rd. According to State police, 40 year old Nathan Forker was traveling on Klein Road heading west at about 11:50pm, and lost control of his car, going down an embankment and hitting a tree. Police say the vehicle caught fire and became fully engulfed. Forker was found a short distance away after he left the accident behind. No word on any pending charges.
SQUATTERS RIGHTS CHALLENGED WITH NEW LEGISLATION
Legislation in Pennsylvania that could help landlords, and partially eliminate “squatters rights” is heading to the governor’s desk. According to the Center Square, the bill sponsored by Senator Dan Laughlin of Erie will allow squatters to be charged with defiant trespass if they didn’t vacate when told to by the property owner. The House passed the bill in June and this week it was passed in the House with advocates of the legislation saying it logically puts homeowner’s rights above a criminal’s rights.
CITY COUNCIL TO DECIDE ON POLICE PRESENCE AT CUTTERS GAMES
A vote is expected to take place at the Williamsport City Council meeting today about providing an extra-duty police officer at the home games of the Williamsport Crosscutters. According to the Sun Gazette, council will decide whether one or two officers are needed for the 40 games that take place at Journey Bank Ballpark and Historic Bowman field. Council members on the public safety committee said that no officers would be taken from the patrol force to cover the ballpark – it would be an extra duty assignment.
YOUNG MAN INJURED IN MOTORCYCLE ACCIDENT
A 20 year old from Lewisburg was injured July 4th in a motorcycle crash in Buffalo Township. According to the Daily Item, 20 year old Jace M Croutch was transported to Geisinger with suspected serious injuries when he was thrown from his motorcycle at the intersection of Buffalo Creek Road and Route 192 just after 11:15pm. He was released from the hospital Monday after being treated for minor injuries. State police say Croutch was not wearing a helmet or eye protection when he crested the hill, passing a horse & buggy at a high rate of speed before swerving and then sideswiping a vehicle stopped at Buffalo Creek Road before he was thrown from the bike. Croutch has been charged with three summary traffic violations.
VICTIM IN HAMMER STRIKE ASSAULT DIES FROM OTHER CAUSES
The woman who was hit in the head with a hammer by her husband in Lewisburg June 16th passed away Sunday, but not from the injuries she sustained during the attack. According to the Daily Item, the husband of 64 year old Cynthia Hope Kitchens, 66 year old Robert David Kitchens, of Buffalo Crossroads, is still in custody facing felony attempted homicide charges and other misdemeanors after he allegedly attacked his wife at home. She had sought treatment at Evangelical Community Hospital for her life-threatening injuries where the incident was reported to police after which they took Kitchens into custody. Officials say the woman’s death is the result of other health issues and will not elevate the charges to homicide when the husband faces a judge in Mifflinburg on August 13th.
MOBILE FOOD PANTRY RIBBON CUTTING
The official ribbon cutting for the Central Susquehanna Opportunities Mobile Food Pantry happened this week in Danville, bringing awareness to a new program that also involves funding from GIANT, Geisinger and M&T Bank. According to Geisinger philanthropy officials, the goal of the Mobile Food Pantry is to address food insecurity and will make monthly stops to the Welsh Center in Coal Township, the Ber-Vaughn Park I Berwick and at the Danville Area Community Center. Get information at csocares.org.
BEER DELIVERY COMING TO PA THROUGH SHEETZ MOBILE APP
Through an expanded partnership with a door-to door delivery company, Sheetz in Pennsylvania will be able to deliver alcoholic beverages from 269 of their stores to customers in Pennsylvania through their mobile app and website. According to a statement by Sheetz, customers, who will be required to validate their age prior to purchase on the app, will be able to place beer orders online 7 days a week during certain hours. Go to orders.sheetz.com for information.
SPORTS
MLB Draft League
Williamsport Crosscutters is up one game in a 3 game series vs Trenton Thunder with last night’s match up cancelled due to rain. They’ll try again tonight @ Journey Bank Ballpark/Historic Bowman Field 6:35pm 1st pitch.
MLB
Tigers 5 Guardians 4
Cubs 4 Orioles 0
Yankees 2 Rays 1
Phillies 4 Dodgers 3
Mets 6 Nationals 2
Brewers 9 Pirates 0
MLB Tonight
Nationals vs Mets 1:10pm
Pirates vs Brewers 2:10PM
Dodgers vs Phillies 6:05pm
Cubs vs Orioles 6:35pm
Yankees vs Rays 6:50pm
Olympic Basketball
* Team USA completed a 86-72 victory over Team Canada in front of a record-setting crowd of 20,756 at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas for their 1st practice before Paris.
Anthony Edwards led Team USA with 13 points off the bench, and Anthony Davis had 10 points, 11 rebounds and 4 blocks
* It also was the first time Steph Curry and LeBronJames played together on Team USA, after Curry was part of two world-championship-winning teams in 2010 and 2014 and James won gold in the Olympics in 2008 and 2012.
Tennis Wimbledon
Men’s
Novak Djokovic moved into a record-tying 13th semifinal yesterday because his quarterfinal opponent and 9th seed Australian, Alex de Minaur, withdrew with a hip injury hours before he and Djokovic were scheduled to play each other on Centre Court.
BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS JULY 10, 2024
MONTOURSVILLE FIRE DISPLACES FAMILY
Montoursville, Loyalsock Township and Jersey Shore firefighters responded to a house fire Tuesday morning that has left a family and their pets displaced. According to the Sun Gazette, a fire in the basement of the home at 1200 Fairview Drive in Montoursville tripped an alarm that called 911 just after 7am, and brought first responders to the scene. Firefighters rescued two cats that had been caught in a second floor bedroom, and had the blaze which was confined to the basement under control in about 15 minutes. Officials say the home was insured and will require professional cleaning before the family can return. No one was injured, and state police are investigating the cause of the fire.
MOTORCYCLE ACCIDENT IN MUNCY CREEK TOWNSHIP
Police are investigating a double motorcycle crash that happened in Muncy Creek Township Sunday at about 8:30pm. According to the Sun Gazette, two bikers riding together, 44 year old Nathan Beitz and 50 year old Keith Thomas, both crashed and their motorcycles and were thrown into a roadside ditch at East Lime Bluff and Chippewa roads. Both men were injured and transported to UPMC Williamsport by ambulance. Both bikes were towed from the scene.
880 MILLION DOLLAR EXPANSION COMING TO GEISINGER DANVILLE
A major expansion of Geisinger Medical Center’s Danville campus is on the way with an 880 million dollar investment to bring about modern spaces and tools to meet the region’s current and future healthcare needs. According to a press release there will be an expanded main entrance area and a new 11-story tower with a larger emergency room capable of serving up to 60 patients. The hospital plans to transition to a 100% private-room facility, as well, allowing a more comforting and modern healing environment. The project also proposes a multi-level parking garage near the front of the hospital that will connect to the facility with an enclosed sky bridge. The project is set to get underway in 2025.
NEW LICENSE PLATE DESIGN FOR PA
New designs for license plates and welcome signs have been created and were announced recently by PA Governor Josh Shapiro as we get ready to commemorate the commonwealth’s 250th birthday in 2026. According to the press release, the design of the license plate include a white background with a Liberty bell design and the words “Let Freedom Ring”. The Governor’s office said all existing standard issue license plate inventory will be used before transitioning to the new plate design. In addition, there are 8 new welcome signs installed already in PA with 1 placed at the state line in Tioga County at Route 1015, and 29 more to be erected in the next few months.
MUNCY CREEK TOWNSHIP MAN CHARGED WITH ARSON
A man from Muncy Creek Township is facing arson charges after police determined a fire in his basement bedroom was intentionally set Saturday. According to the Sun Gazette, 31 year old Tyler Newman who lived with mother at a home on Musser Lane, was away from the home about 3am Saturday when his mother discovered the fire and called 911. Police say following the determination that the fire was caused by suspicious circumstances, Newman returned home and was questioned about his whereabouts. After allegedly providing contradictory statements, he was taken into custody and charged with two felony counts each of aggravated arson and arson endangering the lives of others plus one felony count each of reckless burning, and causing or risking a catastrophe and more. He is in custody under 100 thousand dollars bail.
CAR SALESMAN CHARGED FOR NOT COMPLETING STATE PAPERWORK
A Bloomsburg Car salesman is being charged with theft after he sold over 100 thousand dollars worth of inventory but never turned in completed paperwork to PennDOT. According to North Central PA dot com, a customer said they contacted authorities after 62 year old Bradley A. Breisch didn’t turn over the titles for paid-in-full vehicles. Police audited the records at the Columbia Blvd business, and found 10 vehicle sales and no paper work completed. IN addition to a tampering with public records charge, Breisch is being charged with 10 counts of theft by deception and unprofessional conduct.
NEW LOCATION FOR LYCO COMMISSIONERS MEETING
The Lycoming County Commissioners will hold their first public meeting this week in their new location on the third floor of the Third Street Plaza, located at 33 West Third Street. According to the commissioners there will be a ribbon cutting after the meeting at 11:30am Thursday to allow the public to get familiar with the new space. The sale of the former meeting location, offices at the Executive Plaza building on Pine Street was approved for sale in 2023 to Horizon Federal Credit Union. The Third Street location houses the commissioner’s public meeting room and offices, the treasurer’s office, Office of Voter Services, Veterans Affairs, and for now, the coroner’s office until renovations are complete at the new facility on Wahoo Drive.
VIGIL FOR TEEN PILOT WHO DIED JULY 4TH
There will be a vigil this week to honor and remember Maisie Bitler of Hughesville who died in a plane crash on July 4th. Maisie was a recent graduate of Hughesville Area Junior Senior High School and had been working on earning her private pilots license. Officials from the NTSB said Bitler had logged about 22 hours of flight time and was on her second solo flight when the Cessna 172N Skyhawk she was operating went down in the woods near Lock Haven. Friends and family will gather at the Hughesville Junior Senior High School, 349 Cemetery St, Hughesville at 8 p.m. Thursday, July 11. Organizers ask participants to bring a candle and photos to share.
SPORTS
MLB Draft League
The Williamsport Crosscutters defeated Trenton Thunder 6-3 last night at home in the 1st game of a 3-game series this week.
With last night’s win, the Cutters clinched the first half of the MLB Draft League and will host the MLB Draft League Championship on September 5th against the 2nd Half Champion.
MLB
Guardians 9 Tigers 8
Cubs 9 Orioles 2
Phillies 10 Dodgers 1
Rays 5 Yankees 3
Mets 7 Nationals 5
Pirates 12 Brewers 2
MLB Tonight
Cubs vs Orioles 6:35pm
Yankees vs Rays 6:50pm
Dodgers vs Phillies 7pm ESPN
Nationals vs Mets 7:10pm
Pirates vs Brewers 8:10pm
Tennis Wimbledon – Men’s
* After some medical treatment on and off the court yesterday by his trainers, top-seeded Jannik Sinner lost to Daniil Medvedev 6-7, 6-4, 7-6 , 2-6, 6-3 in the Wimbledon quarterfinals on Tuesday.
* Medvedev will take on defending champion Carlos Alcaraz in the semifinals for the second consecutive year.
Women’s
* Donna Vekic, a 28-year-old Croatian, reached her first Grand Slam semifinal in her 43rd appearance at a major tournament by beating qualifier Lulu Sun 5-7, 6-4, 6-1 Tuesday.
* She will face No. 7 Jasmine Paolini for a spot in the final.
BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS
PLANE CRASH VICTIM IDENTIFIED
The identity of the 17 year old pilot who perished in the plane crash July 4th near Lock Haven has been released. According to the Clinton County Coroner, Zach Hanna, Maisie Bitler of Hughesville was the victim in the crash that happened near 200 South Allegheny Street in Woodward Township last Thursday morning. Bitler was operating a Cessna 172 around 10am when witnesses say the engine sputtered and the plane come down in a wooded area. The National Transportation Safety Board and Federal Aviation Administration are currently investigating the crash and say a preliminary report about the nature of the crash will be available in 30 days, posted on the NTSB Newsroom Twitter.
POLICE SEARCH FOR COFFEE SHOP ROBBERY SUSPECT
Money was stolen from a coffee shop in Mifflinburg last weekend and Milton State Police are investigating. According to authorities, a suspect broke in to the trailer on Red Barn Road in Buffalo Township sometime over the weekend of June 29th and 30th and stole the cash. According to IV Coffee Company’s Facebook page, they’re hoping for help from their followers to find out who might have heard about someone being responsible for the theft. If you do have information that would help the investigation, please call Pennsylvania State Police at 570-524-2662.
LOCAL BEE KEEPER ON SESAME STREET
A bee keeper from Montandon had an opportunity to appear on the syndicated show, Sesame Street recently to teach Elmo and his friends about the importance of bees within our ecosystem. According to North Central PA dot com, Ryan Pardoe of Hex Honey Bees said he was asked to be interviewed for the Elmo segment about beekeepers after a friend of his wife’s recommended him after she knew he was a beekeeper for his father’s fruit tree business, Pardoe’s Perky Peanuts. Pardoe said he manages about 45 colonies of bees and offers nine flavors of honey and 10 or so different scented beeswax candles which they sell in various local markets around Lycoming County.
LYCO COUNTY FAIR STARTS WEDNESDAY
The Lycoming County Fair in Hughesville is about to start, kicking off tomorrow through Saturday, July 20th. Vistors can come to the 2024 county fair the first day for free admission and enjoy the free Harness racing both Wednesday and Thursday. Admission from the 11th to the 20th is 4 dollars with kids 12 and under get in free with a paying adult and parking at the fairgrounds is 3 dollars. Ride prices are not included in the admission price. Look for Monster Truck rides and there will be Bulls & Barrels in the Grandstand and bleachers on Friday night for just 10 dollars. Get all the details for the fair all week at Lycoming fair dot net.
ROUTE 15 SOUTH SPUR THE SCENE OF ANOTHER TRUCK CRASH
Police are investigating a tractor trailer crash that brought out the HAZMAT team Monday night on the Route 15 South Spur just after 6pm. According to the Sun Gazette, the driver lost control of the rig, crashing into the guardrails and overturning, spilling over 6000 gallons of diesel fuel and an unknown amount of cargo from the truck. Emergency crews assisted the driver out of the cab and he was transported to UPMC with non-life threatening injuries. A lane of Route 15 south was closed thru 4am this morning after special hazardous materials emergency response team and other clean up crews completed work at the scene, just west of the Maynard Street interchange off of I-180.
SUNBURY MAN PEADS NOT GUILTY TO ATTEMPTED HOMICIDE
A man from Sunbury will face a jury next week for charges against him for stabbing and biting a man at an 11th Street apartment on April 16, 2023. According to the Daily Item, Jose Aguilar-Velazquez allegedly attempted to sexually assault the male victim and became angry when he was rejected. Police say a neighbor called 911 after hearing a disturbance in the nearby apartment. Aguilar-Velazquez pleaded not guilty to attempted homicide charges and jury selection begins in front of Northumberland County President Judge Paige Rosini Monday July 15th with a trial set to begin Friday, July 19th. When police arrived on the scene the victim was bleeding and injured – he was transported to Geisinger Medical Center in Danville.
CLINTON COUNTY SHERIFF SEEKING PLANE CRASH WITNESSES
In regards to the fatal plane crash that occurred July 4th in Woodward Township last Thursday that took the life of pilot, 17 year old Maisie Bitler, the Clinton County Sheriff has issued a statement on his social media page about alleged witnesses to the crash. According to Sheriff Kerry Stover, during the collaboration of investigating that is being done with federal authorities, information has come to light that there were two female witnesses of the crash who were on the levee walkway close to the end of the path nearest the first island bridge last Thursday before the crash. Stover and the FAA Investigator are asking the two witnesses to call the Clinton County Communication Center at 570-748-2936 or PA state police at 570-726-6000 and assist the investigation with information they may have.
PA BILL PASSES TO DONATE GOOD-TO-EAT-FOOD WITH AN EXPIRED DATE
A bill has passed in the Pennsylvania House on Monday that will allow food that has gone by past the use-by date but is still safe to eat, to be donated to food pantries for distribution to those in need. According to the Daily Item, House Bill 2286 exempts the use-by date and allows for judgement for appearance, age, freshness, grade and surplus of the food item. The bill passed 201-0, advancing to the Senate for further consideration, and would take effect immediately if it passes there.
SPORTS
Little League
*East Lycoming’s TriTown defeated Keystone last night 4-2 at Volunteer stadium, winning the District 12 Championship and advancing to the Section 3 Tournament.
*First title since East Lycoming won in 1986
* Section 3 Tournament July 14-18
MLB Draft League
Cutters spend 3 days at home this week and host Trenton Thunder tonight at Journey Bank Ballpark /Historic Bowman Field 6:35pm 1st pitch.
MLB
Tigers 1 Guardians 0
Pirates 8 Mets 2
Cardinals 6 Nationals 0
Rangers 9 Angels 4
Braves 5 D’backs 4
MLB Tonight
Cubs vs Orioles 6:35pm
Dodgers vs Philles 6:40pm TBS
Yankees vs Rays 6:50pm
Nationals vs Mets 7:10pm
Pirates vs Brewers 8:10pm
NFL News
*Pittsburgh Steelers cornerback Cameron Sutton was suspended by the NFL on Monday for eight games for violating the league’s personal conduct policy.
*Sutton was released by the Detroit Lions on March 21, one day after a warrant was issued for his arrest stemming from an alleged domestic violence incident. He entered a pretrial diversion program in April.
*Sutton had signed a one-year deal with the Steelers on June 5
MLB NEWS
*Willie Mays received final military honors during a special Army presentation of an American flag to his son Michael at a public memorial service Monday at the San Francisco Giants’ waterfront ballpark.
*The “Say Hey Kid,” hit 660 career home runs despite spending 1952 to 1954 in the Army during the Korean War, died June 18 at 93.
BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS JUNE 25, 2024
MEMORIAL HELD FOR CENTRAL MOUNTAIN TEEN
A candlelight memorial occurred last night near Lock Haven City Beach to memorialize the Central Mountain teen who drowned Saturday at in the West Branch of the Susquehanna River. Administrators at Central MNoutnain High School say that 18 year old Gavin Frey, of Howard was a hardworking leader among his friends. A 22 year old man who was with Frey on Saturday was flown to Geisinger Medical Center in Danville after the accident and remains hospitalized in unknown condition. Monday, support services were announced to be available at Central Mountain High School, according to the school district Facebook page. . Frey is the second Centre County teenager to die this year of drowning. 16 year old Nathan Dan, of Bellefonte, died in May while swimming at Raystown Lake in Huntingdon County.
MILL HALL CNA CHARGED WITH ABUSE
A former Mill Hall CNA is facing charges after she allegedly abused a patient in her care while she was employed at a skilled nursing facility in Jersey Shore in May. According to the Sun Gazette, police say in an affidavit that 41 year old Sara Marie Watkins intentionally and repeatedly moved a patient in a lift, intentionally causing pain and mocking the patient when they cried out. Watkins case has been held for court on the charges of abuse of a care-dependent person and harassment And she is free n 45 thousand dollars bail. The woman is no longer employed by the Jersey Shore Skilled Nursing and Rehabilitation Center.
DATA BREACH AT GEISINGER
Geisinger has announced that up to a million files of patient information may have been involved in a data breach that occurred in November of 2023. According to a press release, the outside vendor, Nuance Communications Incorporated, had terminated an employee who, upon the firing, accessed data to some of Geisinger’s patient records before Nuance could disconnect their access. That former employee is now facing federal charges. Geisinger reports the information breached varied by patient, but included more personal data than financial data or social security number data.
PROGRAM HELPS OFFICERS UNDERSTAND RESIDENTS WITH AUTISM
PA state police have created a resource to help community members who are diagnosed with Autism communicate effectively when they have an encounter with a police officer. According to State police officials, a card has been created that can be shared that helps reduce barriers between officers who may not be familiar with the needs of the Autistic person. The card alerts law enforcement that the person may be uncomfortable with loud noises or with being touched or other barriers to communication, and police can then respond appropriately. The cards are available online at psp.pa.gov under “public safety documents”.
HOMELESS MAN ATTACKS EMPLOYEES WHERE HE WASN’T HIRED
A homeless man who was overlooked as a new hire at the Sheetz store on West Fourth Street in Williamsport, went inside the store last May, threatening employees and causing a disturbance. According to the Sun Gazette, Rhamir Hatcher went to the store on May 13th at about 5pm and told employees he would kill them by stabbing, before he scattered over 800 dollars-worth of items around the store and pushed a cash register off the counter. Court records say Hatcher was charged with terroristic threats, felony criminal mischief, disorderly conduct, shoplifting and criminal trespassing. After the incident at the Sheetz, the man had been taken into custody for a probation violation. He remains in jail in lieu of bail.
REPAVING OF SIX STREETS IN THE CITY TO START THIS SUMMER
Williamsport city council has approved a bid for re-paving of six streets in Williamsport and work is expected to be complete by September with considerations to avoid congestion during Little League World Series in August. According to the Sun Gazette, Glenn O. Hawbaker was approved with a bid of just over 170 thousand dollars to pave the six streets, including Hollywood Circle, Taylor Place, Vallamont Drive, First Avenue, Wayne Avenue and East Third Street. There is a reconstruction project also scheduled for Little League Boulevard from Mulberry to Walnut Streets as well. The public works committee will be discussing the detours around construction for a few weeks.
TRIANGLE TECH TO CLOSE
The Pittsburgh based Triangle Tech, including the location in Sunbury, will be closing after this current semester is complete. According to school officials the tech school that has operated for 80 years teaching various trades and assisting with job placement was struck hard by the COVID pandemic, changes in the industry landscape and strenuous government regulations along with a decline in enrollment, leading to the closure. Other campuses effected include Greensburg, DuBois, Bethlehem, and Chambersburg are also.
GAME COMMISSION DOING THIRD BIRD ATLAS
The PA Game Commission is looking for the public’s help counting birds in Pennsylvania. According to a press release, the Game Commission and Hawk Mountain Sanctuary are conducting the third Pennsylvania Bird Atlas between now and February of 2029. Volunteers are asked to observe birds in Pennsylvania and report the findings online at ebird.org/atlaspa. Instructions and tools to participate are also noted on that site under the explore tab. Coordinators of the program say, whether a volunteer observes one bird or 100, all the reporting is important.
SPORTS
NHL Stanley Cup Final
Game 7 in Edmonton
Panthers 2 Oilers 1 Florida wins 4-3
* It’s been 25 years since the Panthers had a playoff victory
* Oiler, Connor McDavid won the Conn Smythe Trophy as the most valuable player in the 2024 postseason.
* McDavid is the sixth player in NHL history to win the Conn Smythe from team that lost in the Stanley Cup Final. He’s only the second skater after Reggie Leach of the Philadelphia Flyers, who was named MVP in 1976.
MLB
Guardians 3 Orioles 2
Phillies 8 Tigers 1
Reds 11 Pirates 5
Padres 7 Nationals 6
MLB Today
Guardians vs Orioles 6:35
Phillies vs Tigers 6:40pm
Yankees vs Mets 7:10pm TBS
Pirates vs Reds 7:10pm
Nationals vs Padres 9:40pm ESPN+
MLB Draft League
The Crosscutters are in West Virginia today for the 1st of three games on the road.
Friday Williamsport Cutters vs Frederick Keys – Friday night at home @6:35pm first pitch.
BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS JUNE 24, 2024
TEEN DROWNS IN SUSQUEHANNA NEAR LOCK HAVEN
Emergency crews responded to the City Beach area of the Susquehanna River in Lock Haven Saturday at about 4:15pm for two male swimmers in distress, and despite efforts from rescuers, only one young man survived the incident. According to the Clinton County Coroner, after a search, 18 year old Gavin Frey was pulled from the water unresponsive and was pronounced deceased at the scene. A 22 year old victim was rescued first by boaters and they got him to the shore, with the MedicVac helicopter transporting him to Geisinger Medical Center in Danville. NO word on the surviving man’s condition at this time.
FIRE NEAR MOORESBURG
A garage outside of Danville was destroyed by a fire Saturday. According to media outlets, the structure formerly used as a cabinet shop near Mooresburg caught fire overnight around the 500 block of Route 642. Fire departments from 3 counties responded at about 1:45am. Danville, East End, Southside, Elysburg, Pottsgrove, Turbot Township, Liberty Township, Washingtonville and Valley Township fire departments all responded to the blaze. No injuries were reported, and witnesses said they thought the cause of the fire was lightning.
MEALS FOR SCHOOL KIDS THIS SUMMER
Breakfast and lunch for kids over the summer who may face food insecurity are available for the next few weeks at Loyalsock Township School District from today through July 18th except for Fridays and the 4th of July. The Loyalsock program is offered at Schick Elementary, 2800 Four Mile St. and at the cafeteria on the Middle School/High School campus. The other program is at St. Paul Calvary United Methodist Church along 1427 Memorial Avenue serving breakfast from 9-10 a.m. and lunch noon to 1 p.m. Monday through Friday until Aug. 16th.
NEW STORE AT LITTLE LEAGUE INTERNATIONAL
A new flagship store is set to replace the existing storefronts at the Little League International Complex. According to North Central PA dot com, Delaware North Sportservice has entered into a partnership with the Little League World Series and will oversee a new store. This is the same company who has provided concessions at the facility since 2002. The store will replace the Main Gift Shop and Third-Base Store and provide 6,000 square feet of retail space. Delaware North Sportservice says the news store is set to open for the upcoming 2024 season in August.
MAN ARRESTED FOR ASSAULTING WIFE WITH A HAMMER
Bail has been denied for a Union County man who allegedly hit his wife over the head with a hammer, causing near-fatal injuries. According to the News Item, 66 year old Robert Kitchens was arraigned Friday after he was arrested for the June 16th assault. His wife, who was hit in the back of the head is being treated at Evangelical Community Hospital. State police say Kitchen faces felony charges of criminal attempted homicide, aggravated assault with a deadly weapon, and a host of misdemeanors including simple assault, and summary harassment. He remains incarcerated at Union County Prison.
WOMAN CHARGED WITH GIVING ALCOHOL TO MINORS
A woman from Renovo was arrested after giving alcohol to minors. According to North Central PA dot com, 35 year old Faith Lee Marr gave a 16 year old girl a bottle of tequila and kept her last can of beer for herself. The teen took a photo with the bottle and was caught consuming the liquor with another teen by her grandmother. Police say the photo is evidence that the teens consumed the alcohol given to them and Marr was taken into custody. She was charged with corruption of minors and furnish liquor to minors and is free on $10,000 bail.
PENN COLLEGE GRANT FOR PLASTICS PROGRAM
Penn College has received a grant from The National Science Foundation to redesign its plastics and polymers program. According to North Central PA dot com, the grant totals $594,574 and will support 2 one-year, for-credit certificate programs in both extrusion and injection molding. Penn College hopes to use some funds to introduce high school students to careers in the plastics field. The dean of engineering technologies, Bradley M. Webb, expressed gratitude for the funding and mentioned how program graduates have a 100% overall job placement rate. The grant will provide funding for the program over the next 3 years.
LEWISBURG SIDEWALK CHALK FEST JULY 5
Local artists are invited to register for The Sidewalk Chalk Festival in Lewisburg coming up Friday, July 5th. According to the Lewisburg Arts Council, artists of all ages can decorate a square with washable chalk on the sidewalks of downtown Lewisburg, with finished artwork to be shared on Facebook and/or Instagram @LewisburgArtsCouncil or #lewisburgsidewalkchalkfestival. Online registration closes July 3rd at 5pm, but there will be in person registration on the day of the festival at 340 Market Street. Register at LewisburgArtsCouncil.org under the events tab.
SPORTS
NASCAR
USA Today 301, New Hampshire Speedway
* Christopher Bell raised a broom over his head and clutched a 24-pound lobster in victory lane for sweeping the weekend at New Hampshire following Saturday’s win in the Xfinity Series, and earning his third Cup win of the season Sunday on wet weather Goodyear tires.
- Chase Briscoe was 2nd, Josh Berry 3rd, Kyle Larson 4th and Chris Buescher rounded out the top 5.
MLB Draft League
Williamsport Crosscutters 9 Mahoning Valley Scrappers 0
Cutters swept the series 4-0 and have the day off today. They head to West Virginia Tuesday for three games on the road. Cutters & Keys – Friday night at home @6:35pm first pitch.
MLB
Guardians 6 Blue Jays 5
Phillies 4 Diamondbacks 1
Braves 3 Yankees 1
Rays 3 Pirates 1
Astros 8 Orioles 1
Nationals 2 Rockies 1
Mets 5 Cubs 2
MLB Today
Orioles vs Guardians 6:35pm
Phillies vs Tigers 6:40pm
Pirates vs Reds 7:10pm
Nationals vs Padres 9:40pm
NHL Stanley Cup Final Tonight
Oilers vs Panthers Game 7 @8:00pm ABC tied 3-3
BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS JUNE 21, 2024
MAN SENTENCED AFTER ARREST FOR SELLING BATH SALTS
A Lock Haven man who pleaded guilty to two counts of delivering bath salts and one count of possession of a controlled substance, was sentenced this week to up to 10 years in state prison. According to North Central PA dot com, the Clinton County District Attorney says 43-year-old Justin Eugene Dauberman has a 25 year criminal history, and the DA argued for the lengthy sentence in the case. Dauberman will be eligible for parole in just under 3 years.
ANSONIA RESTAURANT DESTROYED BY FIRE
An historical building that was being used as a restaurant in Ansonia, Tioga County was lost in a fire on Tuesday. According to the Wellsboro Gazette, a call came at 12:20am Tuesday morning for a fire at the Coach Stop Inn & Restaurant in Shippen Township on Route 6. A second alarm went out before 1am with 5 more companies joining firefighters from Goodyear Hose from Galeton and Mansfield, who worked to establish two water supplies for the quickly moving fire. After the fire was controlled crews stayed on the scene for a few hours. Route 6 reopened after 4:30am . Fire officials say the building that had last been open on June 15th was a total loss. The state fire marshal is investigating.
COOLING CENTERS AVAILABLE DURING HEAT ADVISORY
A few cooling centers are still available today as the heat advisory remains in place for our area through tomorrow evening. All five Northumberland County Area Agency on Aging community centers report that they extended their hours for centers that are still operating in Shamokin, Mount Carmel, Herndon, Sunbury and Milton, and they will be open from 8:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. today, Offering seating, air conditioning and beverages. In Lycoming County, The Williamsport Branch of the YMCA is also a cooling center open for city residents to cool down in the late afternoon through to 8pm.
DUI PATROLS IN TWO COUNTIES THIS WEEK
Roving DUI patrols are scheduled in Montour and Northumberland counties today through the next week. According to the Daily Item, Highway Safety Network’s Regional DUI Enforcement Group and the Mahoning Township Police Department will begin the daily sobriety checkpoints until next Sunday June 30th. According to a press release, funding for the roving patrol program comes from PennDOT and the National Highway Safety Administration. Motorists can report drunk drivers be calling 911. Call 1-888-under21to report underage drinking.
PHILLY WOMAN ARRESTED FOR UNION COUNTY SCAM
Pennsylvania State police have arrested a Philadelphia woman who scammed a Union County man out of 400 thousand dollars over a 4 year period. According to North Central PA dot com, 32 year old Krystal McKenzie-Carter originally contacted the victim claiming he won Publisher’s clearing House sweepstakes, and after time and numerous scam payments to the suspect, the victim finally contacted state police last August to report the theft. Troopers and the U.S. Secret Service investigated bank records of McKenzie-Carter and traced deposits and withdrawals that coordinated with the scam. The woman is charged with felony conspiracy theft by deception, receiving stolen property and more and is free on 2,000 dollars unsecured bail. Her preliminary hearing is July 11.
MOUNT CARMEL WOMAN FACES FEDERAL DRUG CHARGES
A woman from Mount Carmel will spend 5 years in prison after a trial in in federal court in Northumberland County found her guilty of trafficking methamphetamine. According to North Central PA dot com, 45 year old Micia Best was identified by the FBI as a suspect in a drug trafficking operation in which she moved a significant amount of methamphetamine throughout the Commonwealth. In addition to jail time, Best must also undergo four years of supervised release.
WEEKEND WORK TO CLOSE ROUTE 45
Watch for weekend detours on Westbound Route 45 in Union and Northumberland Counties for a bridge preservation project. According to PennDOT, starting at 8pm tonight through Monday, June 24, 2024, at 6am, Route 45 westbound will be closed between Water Street in Lewisburg Borough and Route 405 in West Chillisquaqu. Those using Route 45 westbound from Montandon to Lewisburg will be detoured using Route 45, Route 405 north, Route 642 west, and Route 15 south. Route 45 eastbound will be maintained through the work zone. Watch conditions of all the PA roadways 24/7 at the newly upgraded 511PA dot com.
DANVILLE TEACHER, TREE CLIMBER HOSTS GUEST ON CLIMB #46
The Danville Area High School agriculture teacher who has set the goal of climbing 67 trees in 67 counties in Pennsylvania to raise awareness about Pennsylvania’s hardwood forests, was recently joined by the PA Agriculture Secretary, Russell Redding on his 46th climb. Teacher and forester Van Wagner, met up with Redding at Blue Knob State Park in Bedford County and posted video of the climb on his YouTube channel @vanwags along with all his previous climbs. The PA Office of Outdoor Recreation says that investments in our forests are investments in the quality of our Commonwealth communities.
SPORTS
MLB Draft League
Williamsport Crosscutters 8 Mahoning Valley Scrappers 3
Game 2 at home again tonight in a 4-Game series with Mahoning Valley – 6:35pm first pitch
MLB
Guardians 6 Mariners 3
D’backs 5 Nationals 2
Orioles 17 Yankees 5
Cardinals 6 Giants 5 / Rickwood Field in Birmingham AL
MLB Tonight
Mets vs Cubs 2:20pm
D’Backs vs Phillies 6:40pm AppleTv
Rays vs Pirates 6:40pm
Braves vs Yankees 7:05pm AppleTv
Orioles vs Astros 8:10pm
NHL Stanley Cup Final Tonight
Panthers vs Oilers Game 6 – 8pm ABC/ESPN+ FLA leads 3-2
NBA News
There will be no public memorial for Hall of Fame player and executive Jerry West. In a statement released Thursday by the LA Clippers, West’s family stated they would honor Jerry’s wishes and mourn his passing privately. West died June 12 at age 86. He can be honored through donations to four funds at West Virginia, including academic and basketball scholarships named after him and his wife.
BOXING
Boxing star Ryan Garcia has been suspended one year after he reached a settlement with the New York State Athletic Commission following positive tests for performance-enhancing drugs. The suspension is retroactive to Garcia’s April 20th decision victory over Devin Haney, which has been overturned to a no-contest. Garcia also forfeited his $1.2 million purse.
BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS JUNE 20, 2024
MUNCY MAN FACING CHILD PORN CHARGES
A Muncy man is facing charges for possessing child pornography. According to the Sun Gazette, police accuse 33 year old Joseph Edward Boris III of keeping pornographic images and distributing them last December through March and was recently arraigned in District Court. Boris was also charged with illegal use of a communication device and waived his preliminary hearing. He is incarcerated in liue of 100 thousand dollars bail.
UPCOMING MANSLAUGHTER TRIAL FOR SCI COAL TWP INMATE
A 49 year old inmate at SCI Coal Township admitted to police that he killed his cellmate in 2022 and is now facing felony charges of voluntary manslaughter after District Attorney Mike O’Donnell discovered the open case when he took office in January. According to the Daily Item, Samuel Merriweather, originally of Philadelphia was allegedly involved in an argument at the prison that he said led to him choke his cell-mate while he slept. The investigation . Merriweather continues to be held without bail and will have a court date in Northumberland County at a later date.
WASD SEEKING DISTINGUISHED ALUMNI
The public is invited to nominate graduates from Williamsport Area School District for the 2024 Distinguished Alumni Awards. According to the Williamsport Area School District Education Foundation, up to four individuals can be recognized as an Outstanding Young Alumnus, for the Distinguished Alumni Service Award, for Alumni Achievement and for the Alumni Humanitarian Award. Twenty three graduates have been recognized as a Distinguished Alumni since 2012. The WASD Education Foundation facilitates charitable giving and permanent legacies based on educational innovation, the arts, athletics and scholarships. Get information at wasdeducationfoundation.org.
HOME MADE DAYS THIS WEEKEND
Local and regional artisans will take over shady Brandon Park this weekend during Home Made days Friday 10 to 7 and Saturday 9 to 5. According to officials from the City of Williamsport, up to 8 thousand visitors have been known to attend the event in past years shopping for home made items that include art by local photographers, painters and other craftsmen. Participants are invited to check out the progress of the extensive renovations of the Kenneth Cooper Bandshell. The purpose of HomeMade Days is to expose and educate students and individuals of the region to art in all forms.
MAN, UNDER THE INFLUENCE, CAUSES ONE CAR CRASH
A Williamsport man was arrested after he was allegedly driving under the influence and caused a one car accident that injured a minor female passenger last February. According to the Sun Gazette, recent court records say a few days after being treated for his injuries at UPMC Williamsport, 35 year old Jacob Thomas Greenly told police he didn’t remember anything about the crash or being in the vehicle beforehand, admitting his probable use of marijuana, methamphetamine and amphetamine which authorities found in his system. Greenly now faces additional charges of DUI, recklessly endangerment, and drug charges. He was arraigned and released on $50,000 bail.
SALAZAR SEEKS APPEAL, CITES ILLEGALITIES IN HER TRIAL
The woman who was convicted of risking a catastrophe, reckless endangerment and other charges, but acquitted of attempted murder, after she rammed a minivan into the World of Little League Museum in South Williamsport is appealing her conviction to the state Superior Court. According to PennLive, 58 year old Theresa Robinson Salazar of Williamsport, who was sentenced to 6 to 43 years in state prison, claims insufficient evidence for some of her convictions and also that her sentence is illegal due to some charges not being merged together in Lycoming County Court. Lawyers for Salazar filed post-sentence motions that were denied, which allows her appeal to move forward. Forty people were in the museum when Salazar claimed she had a sneezing rage that caused her to black out and drive into the building. Only one person sustained minor injuries.
SHIK COULD STRIKE THIS FALL
After a recent school board meeting, the Union representing Shikellamy School District teachers are planning a strike this September if things don’t’ change. According to the Daily Item, a statement was issued several weeks ago by the union, cancelling negotiation sessions, citing that some teachers feel undervalued. In a statement by the district, they value and respect every teacher and say the average teacher salary in the school district is $74,000 among the highest in the area. No word on the exact day of the strike, if it will happen at all – but they say they will give parents plenty of notice.
GAS IMPACT FEES BEING DISTRIBUTED
Local counties are receiving the natural gas impact fees allocated by the Department of Environmental Protection, amounts that total in the millions for Pennsylvania. According to Sen. Gene Yaw, the chairman of the Senate Environmental Resources and Energy Committee, and representing the 23rd Senatorial District, Bradford County will receive disbursements totaling $4.3 million, Lycoming County will get $2.8 million, and Sullivan County will receive just under half a million dollars. The funding is based on natural gas production in 2023, with approximately $179.6 million is being distributed statewide.
SPORTS
MLB Draft League
Crosscutters 3 State College Spikes 3 – Spikes defeated Cutters in Sudden Death.
* With the Sudden Death loss, Williamsport falls to 8-5 in the 1st Half, but remains tied with the Mahoning Valley Scrappers at the top of the standings after Mahoning Valley’s Sudden Death loss to the West Virginia Black Bears.
* Williamsport is home tonight at Journey Bank Ballpark at Historic Bowman Field to open a four-game series against the Mahoning Valley Scrappers
MLB
Guardians 8 Mariners 0
Pirates 1 Reds 0
Padres 5 Phillies 2
Nationals 3 D’Backs 1
Orioles 7 Yankees 6
Rangers 5 Mets 3
MLB Today
Orioles vs Yankees 4:05pm
Giants vs Cardinals 7:15pm FOX (from Birmingham AL)
Brewers vs Padres 9:40pm
NHL Stanley Cup Final Friday
Panthers vs Oilers Game 6 – 8pm ABC/ESPN+ FLA leads 3-2Golf News
* Charlie Woods, the 15-year-old son of legendary golfer Tiger Woods shot a 1-under 71 at a U.S. Junior Amateur championship qualifier at Eagle Trace Golf Club in Florida yesterday.
* Woods’ win qualifies him to take part in the July 22-27 tournament at Oakland Hills Country Club in Michigan. The winner of which will get an exemption into the 2025 U.S. Open at Oakmont.