BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS MAY 21, 2024
SHOTS FIRED AT WILLIAMSPORT BAR
Shots were fired into a bar on West 4th Street in Williamsport Sunday and police are searching for a suspect. According to WNEP, around 11pm Sunday night officers responded to a call at the Shamrock Six Pack and Grill along West 4th Street where several shots were reported. Police say shots struck the building and several cars at the property, but there weren’t any injuries. An investigation continues, and if you have information, call city police.
DUBOIS WOMAN TAKEN INTO CUSTODY IN MONTOURSVILLE
A woman from Dubois who argued with staff at the Montoursville Weis Market and refused to leave the parking lot from the day before, was arrested May 5th. According to State Police, they responded to the N. Loyalsock Ave store after 42 year old Courtney Lynn Sheesley refused to leave and had locked herself in her car that had run out of gas, allegedly insisting she didn’t have to pay for gas while claiming she was a “royal”. She also refused to allow police to take her to a different location, and just prior to being forcibly removed from the car through the window, she unlocked the car and was taken into custody. Sheesley was charged with defiant trespass.
SNYDER COUNTY PRISON CONSIDERING CLOSURE
Snyder County Commissioners say the county prison near Selinsgrove is set to close later this year after they are experiencing lower inmate numbers and higher costs. According to WVIA, agreements are in place with other counties that will allow inmates who are unable to post bail or serve out their sentence in Snyder County to transfer to a different prison. County officials say after two studies they’ve funded, it was determined that closing the prison and transferring prisoners to other facilities would save tax payer money. The Pennsylvania Department of Corrections says the prison is about one quarter full – with 38 inmates housed there as of now.
TWO LOCOMOTIVES TO HONOR VETERANS
Northumberland’s North Shore Railroad recently introduced two locomotives painted to honor veterans that will run on Lycoming Valley Railroad. According to the rail company, a private ceremony was recently held to dedicate the LVRR 9052 which represents the Veterans Unit and LVRR 9050 representing a Memorial Unit. The Veterans Unit is painted in Camouflage Dark Sandstone with three saluting soldiers with the words “All Gave Some”, the Memorial Unit is dedicated to fallen soldiers with the phrase “Some Gave All”.
NURSING HOME FIRE CAUSES EVACUATION
A fire broke out at the Jersey Shore Skilled Nursing and Rehabilitation Center and forced the evacuation of almost 100 people in the center. According to the Sun Gazette, there were no injuries at the Thompson Street facility, but around 11:30 staff and first responders moved the patients to the Geisinger Jersey Shore Hospital and officials say the fire was extinguished before 12:30pm. During a news briefing, Jersey Shore emergency officials said the fire originated from one air conditioning unit on the roof and did not spread, but forced a large amount of smoke into the third floor of the building. One firefighter was treated for heat exhaustion at UPMC Williamsport. A portable air conditioner will be used to cool common areas for the facility until a repair of the roof condenser can take place.
WILLIAMSPORT MAN MAKES FALSE REPORT ABOUT BURGLARY
A Williamsport man called in an emergency and told city officers that someone had broken into his home, but upon an investigation, police discovered it was a false report. According to North Central PA dot com, 30 year old Landon Washington called 911 May 6th around 6:30pm and said someone had broken into his Ellinger Street home. When police arrived and saw the glass broken from the inside out, they left to question neighbors who said they heard glass break and say Washington was walking around in his yard after that. Later, Washington allegedly yelled threats toward a neighbor through their mail slot, and when police were called back, they were told Washignton’s ring camera had been stolen, but they found it in his pocket. Washington was charged with terroristic threats, disorderly conduct, false report to law enforcement, misusing 911, and other charges.
SOME COUNTY OFFICES MOVING TO EAST THIRD STREET
A few Lycoming County government offices will be changing locations next week. According to North Central PA dot com, the Commissioners, Controller, Human Resources, and Community Planning and Economic Development offices will move over several days between May 28th through the 31st, from 330 West Pine Street to the third floor of the Third Street Plaza at 33 W. Third St. Residents who need to schedule a visit to these offices should schedule an appointment before May 28th, and expect the new locations of the offices to be operational again beginning June 3rd.
DMV TO CLOSE STATEWIDE FOR MEMORIAL DAY WEEKEND
PennDOT will be closing all driver license and photo centers, including its full-service center in Harrisburg, Saturday, May 25, 2024, through Monday, May 27, 2024, in observance of Memorial Day. Customers can still get driver and vehicle products and services, including all forms, publications, and driver training manuals, online through PennDOT’s Driver and Vehicle Services website dmv.pa.gov available 24 hours a day, seven days a week There are no additional fees for using online services.
SPORTS
PIAA D4 Baseball
Class AA Quarterfinals Montgomery 8 Northwest 0
Red Raiders earned a spot in tomorrow’s semi-finals vs Wyalusing @ Williamsport’s Millionaire Mountain @ 6:30pm.
Troy defeated Southern Columbia 10 -0. It’s Troy vs South Williamsport tomorrow @ Mansfield University 4:30pm
MLB
Guardians 3 Mets 1
Game 1 Padres 6 Braves 5
Game 2 Braves 3 Padres 0
Nationals 12 Twins 3
Mariners 5 Yankees 4
Cardinals 6 Orioles 3
MLB Tonight
Mets vs Guardians 6:10pm
Giants vs Pirates 6:40pm
Rangers vs Phillies 6:40pm
Mariners vs Yankees 7:05
Orioles vs Cardinals 7:45pm
NHL
Oilers 3 Canucks 2 Edmonton wins 4-3
NHL tomorrow
East Final Game 1 – Panthers vs Rangers 8pm ESPN NBA Today
East Finals – Pacers vs Celtics 8pm ESPN/ESPN2
NBA Wednesday
West Finals – Mavericks vs Timberwolves 8:30pm TNT
BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS MAY 22, 2024
SOUTHSIDE MOTORCYCLE ACCIDENT
A collision between a motorcycle and a car happened Sunday morning in South Williamsport. According to the Sun Gazette, the operator of the bike was hospitalized after he was traveling south on route 554 and attempted to accelerate and pass the driver of a Cheverolet Trax that was turning left into the American Legion Post 617 parking area. They collided and the unnamed motorcyclist was thrown from the bike as it continued to travel further into the parking lot. South Williamsport and Loyalsock Township police and firefighters responded to the crash and transported the injured man to UPMC Williamsport.
TWO TEENS ATTACKED IN BENTON JOB CORE FACILITY
Police say a 20 year old man attacked two teens, causing injury, at Red Rock Job Corps in Benton last Wednesday. According to North Central PA dot com, Dakota Harrison allegedly concealed a metal fork in his pocket and used it during a fight with two teens, aged 16 and 17, at the center. Staff at the facility broke up the fight and took the teenagers to a nearby hospital. Harrison is facing simple assault and harassment charges.
LANE RESTRICTIONS IN MUNCY CREEK TOWNSHIP
There will be lane restrictions today on I-180 in both the east and westbound lanes in Muncy Creek Township, for a bridge deck patching project. According to PennDOT, a maintenance crew will perform bridge deck patching on the structures that carry Interstate 180 over Route 405. Watch for activity near mile marker 13, the Muncy / Route 405 interchange between the hours of 8am and 3pm, weather permitting. You can use 511PA dot com, to check road conditions throughout the Commonwealth 24/7.
FLY-IN BREAKFAST SCHEDULED IN WELLSBORO
The all-you-can-eat fly-in breakfast hosted by the Canyon Pilots Association in Wellsboro is set for next Sunday May 26th. According to North Central PA dot com, the annual event is open to the public who can park for free at the Grand Canyon Regional Airport, 112 Runway Road and for a requested 10 dollar donation for adults, enjoy the traditional buckwheat pancakes. Weather permitting, there will be full-size aircraft landing with airplane rides available for a fee. The Mountain Modelaires also attend and display radio-controlled model aircraft at the event for public viewing. The breakfast on May 26th starts at 8am. Email [email protected] for information.
HIGH SPEED CHASE ENDS UP WITH AN ARREST
A motorcyclist was taken into custody on East Third street in Williamsport May 12th after leading police on a high speed chase that started in Montoursville. According to North Central PA dot com, police spotted the driver, later identified as 24 year old Phoenix N. Dodds, speeding on Loyalsock Avenue, and attempted the traffic stop. Police say Dodds fled to the exit of I-180 west and allegedly accelerated up to 110mph until he exited at Exit 23, cutting through traffic and doing wheelies. The traffic on East Third blocked Dodds in at a red light and police arrested him. He is being charged with charged with felony fleeing, careless and reckless driving, failing to obey traffic control signs, making improper turns, and failing to have a registration plate on his vehicle.
UNION COUNTY WOMAN ARRESTED FOR STRANGULATION
A woman from Middleburg was arrested May 12th after she allegedly strangled another woman at a home on Orchard Road in Lewis Township in Union County. According to Milton State Police, 25-year-old Brianna Lynn Fowler and the victim argued about a dog until police say witnesses report Fowler lunged at the victim, pushing her to a couch with her hands around her neck. The witness broke up the altercation which the victim says lasted about 90 seconds. Fowler was charged with a felony count of strangulation, and other misdemeanors for assault and harassment. She was arraigned and bail was set at 5 thousand dollars.
XYLAZINE CLASSIFIED AS A SCHEDULE III DRUG IN PA
An animal tranquilizer used as a cutting agent in heroin and fentanyl has now been classified a Schedule III drug under the Controlled Substances Act after overwhelming support in the PA General Assembly earlier this month brought about the Governor’s signature last week. According to Governor Shapiro’s office, the classification of xylazine, sometimes called “tranq”, criminalizes illicit possession of the drug while still allowing veterinarians to access it for use on large animals. The drug was declared unsafe for human use by the FDA in 2022.
SUMMER HOURS AT LITTLE LEAGUE MUSEUM
Spring and summer hours have been announced for the World of Little League Museum and the Little League Main Gift Shop that will begin after closures over the Memorial Day weekend. According to Little League International, starting May 30th, the museum will be open 7 days a week 9am til 4pm until the conclusion of the Little League Baseball World Series in August. The new merchandise with the theme “Live Your Series” will be available in the shop and online at shop little league dot org, with 2024 season patches available for sale. Any little leaguer who wears their local league jersey with the official Little League patch will be admitted to the museum for free.
SPORTS
NASCAR
* Joey Logano dominated the track on Sunday, leading for 199 laps out of 200, and taking the checkered flag in the 2024 NASCAR All-Star race Sunday at North Wilkesboro Speedway He pocketed $1 million for the victory for Ford and Team Penske in the 40th annual race.
* Denny Hamlin was 2nd, Chris Buescher 3rd, Kyle Larson 4th and Ryan Blaney Rounded out the top 5.
* Ty Gibbs in his #54 Toyota led all 100 laps in the All-Star Open Race Sunday
NBA East/West Semifinals
Pacers 130 Knicks 109 IND wins series 4-3
Timberwolves 98 Nuggets 90 MIN wins series 4-3
NBA Tuesday
East Finals – Pacers vs Celtics 8pm ESPN/ESPN2
NBA Wednesday
West Finals – Mavericks vs Timberwolves 8:30pm TNT
MLB
Guardians 5 Twins 2
Red Sox 11 Cardinals 3
Yankees 7 White Sox 2
Orioles 6 Mariners 3
Phillies 11 Nationals 5
Mets 7 Marlins 3
Pirates 3 Cubs 2
MLB Today
White Sox vs Blue Jays 3:07pm ESPN+
Mets vs Cleveland 6:10pm
Twins vs Nationals 6:45pm
Mariners vs Yankees 7:05pm
NHL Today West 2nd Round Game 7
Oilers vs Canucks 9pm ESPN
NHL Wednesday East Finals Game 1
Panthers vs NY Rangers 8pm ESPN/ESPN+
BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS MAY 17, 2024
SUSPECT CONSIDERED ARMED & DANGEROUS
The 15 year old who is wanted by Coal Township police for a shooting earlier this week in Shamokin is still at large and police say he should be considered armed and dangerous. According to the News Item, 15-year-old Aiden J. Scott, allegedly shot another 15-year-old male in the upper right chest Tuesday afternoon and the vctim was hospitalized in serious condition. In a press release from Coal Township police, Scott is described as a white male with black hair and brown eyes who is 5 feet, 6 inches tall, and weighs about 135 pounds. Scott has been charged as an adult in the case. If you have information about the shooting or Scott’s whereabouts call Coal Township Police Department at 570-644-0333.
MUNCY INMATE DIES IN WILLIAMSPORT HOSPITAL
A female inmate was found unresponsive in her cell at SCI Muncy in April and after being transported and treated at UPMC Williamsport, passed away in the hospital Wednesday around 4:30am. According to North Central PA dot com , 25 year old Ashley Hernandez had been at SCI Muncy since October 26, 2023, serving a 1-to-2-year sentence for simple assault out of Schuylkill County. The official cause of death will be determined by the Lycoming County Coroner’s Office following and investigation by the PA state police.
LUCKY LOTTERY TICKET SOLD IN LOYALSOCK TWP
A 3 million dollar scratch off lottery ticket was recently sold in Loyalsock Township. According to the PA Lottery, the retailer at 330 Westminster Drive in Williamsport sold the winning ticket for the 30 dollar Mega Stacks Scratch-Off game. The Sheetz off the Golden Strip will receive a $10,000 bonus for the sale. Scratch-off prizes expire one year from the game’s end-sale date posted at palottery.com.
WALKING TOUR IN MONTOURSVILLE SUNDAY
The public is invited to take an historic walking tour of Indian Park in Montoursville on Sunday from 2 til 4pm. According to the Sun Gazette, the tour will highlight the spirit of the vibrant era of 1905 with a curated collection of photographs and artifacts depicting the glory days of ‘Starr Island,’ originally known as Indian Amusement Park. The tour is free and all ages are welcome to connect with the rich heritage of Montoursville. Attendees canpark at the old pool complex and walk back to the soccer fields to start the walking tour, sponsored by the General John Burrows Historical Society.
TWO WOMAN ARRESTED FOR CAUSING DISTURBANCE
A woman from Muncy and her mother, from Williamsport were charged with riot, simple assault, reckless endangerment and disorderly conduct after they contributed to a fight between two families last Saturday afternoon at an apartment on Louisa Street. According to the Sun Gazette, the altercation escalated when 50 year old Naja Maureen Moore, starting with yelling, punching and then used pepper spray before officers arrived. The daughter, 32 year old Tanayah Nakiyah Moore, arrived with a handgun and brandished it while continuing to yell. Police say the mother requested her daughter bring the gun to the gathering, and later the woman was disarmed and no one was injured. Both women were arraigned and committed to Lycoming County Prison in lieu of 25 thousand dollars bail each.
SUSPECT FOUND NOT GUILTY OF FIRST, THRID DEGREE MURDER
Ajani Munsch-Ousha Uhuru was found not guilty of first and third degree murder charges Thursday in Northumberland County Court. According to the Daily Item, the 25 year old was found guilty of felony voluntary manslaughter and aggravated assault charges. A jury decided on the case after Uhuru testified on his own behalf about shooting 30-year-old Kareem Jakes in self-defense at the Penn Jersey Food Mart on Fourth Street in Sunbury in May of 2022. He was granted 500 thousand dollars bail after being held without bail since being brought back to Northumberland County by US Marshals from Philadelphia shortly after the shooting. Uhuru’s sentencing hearing is August 8th.
NATURAL GAS PRICE INCREASE
The price of natural gas is going up June 1st and again later this year. According to UGI Utilities, Inc, customers will see an initial 4.5 percent increase, and then by December 1st a just under 3 percent increa, for a total increase of 7.3 percent for their residential bill. Commercial and Industrial retail customers will separately see a slightly larger increase, ranging up to 10.3 percent. UGI is obligated to file its gas cost rates annually for review with the PUC and may make quarterly adjustments to reflect changes in wholesale natural gas prices, passing the cost of the gas they purchase directly to customers without any markup.
ANNUAL 100 MILE YARD SALE PLANNED FOR SUMMER
The summertime 100 mile yard sale in our region is set for Friday and Saturday July 19th and 20th. According to a social media post by PA Bucket List, the annual event is headquartered in Clearfield County and stretches through Cameron, Elk, and Centre counties, and attendees are encouraged to buy from official paid participants along the route. Access to a free 100 Mile Yard Sale Directory and map is available at visitquehannaarea.com.
SPORTS
PIAA D4 Softball
Montgomery 7 Canton 2
NP Liberty 1 Muncy 0
South Wmsprt 13 Danville 5
Baseball
Midd-West 8 Central Mountain 4
Bloomsburg 5 St John Neumann 3
NBA West Semifinals
Timberwolves 115 Nuggets 70 tied 3-3
NBA Tonight East Semifinals
Knicks vs Pacers 8:30pm ESPN NY leads 3-2
MLB
Yankees 5 Twins 0
Mets 6 Phillies 5
Rays 7 Red Sox 5
Pirates 5 Cubs 4
MLB Today
Pirates vs Cubs 2:20pm
Nationals vs Phillies 6:40pm
White Sox vs Yankees 7:05pm
Twins vs Guardians 7:10pm AppleTv
NHL
Rangers 5 Hurricanes 3 NYR wins 4-2
Canucks 3 Oilers 2 VAN leads 3-2
NHL Tonight
Panthers vs Bruins 7pm TNT FLA leads 3-2
Stars vs Avalance 10pm TNT DAL leads 3-2
NASCAR
All-Star Open/All-Star Race North Wilkesboro Speedway, NC
Pre-race 5pm
Twin Valley’s Talk Radio Network / WILQ’s HD3
BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS MAY 16, 2024
POLICE SEEK SHAMOKIN SHOOTING SUSPECT
After a shooting of a teenager in Shamokin earlier this week, Coal Township police have issued an arrest warrant for a 15 year old who may have fled to the Philadelphia area. According to the News Item, police say 15-year-old Aiden J. Scott shot another a 15 year old boy in the chest in a wooded area on South Vine Street near the Shamokin-Coal Township border around 2pm Tuesday. The victim was taken to the Shamokin police department where he was stabilized and transported by ambulance to Geisinger-Shamokin Area Community Hospital, before being flown by helicopter to Geisinger Medical Center in Danville where he is in serious condition. Scott has been charged as an adult and is facing charges of aggravated assault, aggravated assault with a deadly weapon, possession of a firearm by a minor and recklessly endangering another person. If you have information about the shooting or Scott’s whereabouts call Coal Township Police Department at 570-644-0333.
MAN CHARGED FOR SHARING CHILD PORNOGRAPHY
A man from Snyder County has been arrested after police discovered he was sharing child pornography through social media, following an investigation. According to North Central PA dot com, 23 year old Robert William Bowen III of Selinsgrove was arrested May 10th, after the parent company of Facebook, Meta, provided a CyberTip to local police when the pornographic images were shared last year. Once police got a search warrant for Bowen’s phone and other files, he was charged with two felony counts of child pornography, and two other related felonies. His preliminary hearing is May 20th and his bail was set at 50 thousand dollars.
LANE RESTRICTION TODAY ON THE CSVT RIVER BRIDGE
There will be a lane restriction today on Route 147 northbound in Union Township, Union County, for pavement testing. According to PennDOT, a crew will work on the northbound approach to the CSVT River Bridge from the Snyder-Union side of the river. Watch for the right lane to be restricted where work is being performed between noon and 5pm weather permitting.
WILLIAMSPORT SUICIDE PREVENTION GROUP WILL START AGAIN IN FALL
Williamsport area High and Middle Schools are just a couple of the schools in the United States that started a suicide prevention program, calling the 16 students who were nominated by their fellow students as the “Hope Squad”. The current Hope Squad began at the beginning of this school year, and is a peer-to-peer suicide prevention program that encourages students and helps them know they are not alone. Now that the school year is ending, a new group of students for the Hope Squad program will be nominated in the fall. If you are struggling with mental health issues call or text 988, or use the chat at 988lifeline.org.
CONVICTED MURDERER SAY SENTENCE IS UNCONSTITUTIONAL
A Selinsgrove man sentenced to life without the possibility for parole for killing his estranged wife in 2022, went back to court this week to try and overturn the decision of his bench trial in March. According to the Daily Item, attorneys for Brad A. Bailor, who was found guilty of first-degree murder and was at the hearing via video from SCI Smithfield, filed a post-sentence motion saying the life without parole sentence is unconstitutional in Pennsylvania. Senior Judge Harold F. Woelfel Jr. denied the request, saying the case was for a higher court to rule on.
MONTGOMERY MAN ARRESTED FOR SELLING BODY PARTS
A Montgomery man is facing charges of transporting stolen body parts between Kansas and Pennsylvania from 2018 through 2022. According to WNEP, 38 year old Andrew Ensanian is a co-defendant with a Wichita man who was also charged this week by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania for allegedly trafficking human remains. Federal investigators say six co-conspirators were accused of selling human body parts to a Cumberland County man and were charged in June of 2023. Ensanian and the other defendant from Kansas do not yet have a trial date set.
RIDER PARK TO GET RENOVATED
Thanks to a Community Conservation Partnerships Program grant from DCNR, the First Community Foundation Partnership of Pennsylvania was able to announce yesterday a 500 thousand dollar investment in Rider Park and broke ground for the work that will include a number of upgrades. According to the Sun Gazette, improvements should take about 6 weeks and will feature a new pavilion, information kiosk, rain gardens, expanded parking and a new entrance gateway to the park. Additional funding will come from private donations and Lycoming County Act 13 Legacy Funds from state impact fees. Follow the progress for the renovation at 330 Pine Street in Williamsport, at Rider Park on Facebook.
RUTTER’S TO EMPLOY 50 IN MILTON
A tri-state area convenience store, based in York, PA, has announced they have started construction at a new location just off the Industrial Park Road exit of Route 147 near Milton. According to the News Item, Rutter’s plans to employ 50 people at the new location, which will feature 12 auto-fueling positions and five commercial fueling lanes, 24 hours a day. The chain will feature 13 thousand 500 square feet inside the store with a new design that is different from most of the other 87 stores locations around PA, Maryland and West Virginia. The Milton store is expected to open by the end of 2024.
SPORTS
PIAA D4 Baseball
Jersey Shore 7 Midd-West 5
NP Mansfield 5 NE Bradford 3
Elk Lake 10 Wyalusing 5
Softball
NP Liberty 7 NE Bradford 2
Williamson 9 Montgomery 2
Bloomsburg 4 Milton 3
NBA
Celtics 113 Cavaliers 98 BOS wins series 4-1
Mavericks 104 Thunder 92 DAL leads 3-2
NBA Tonight
Nuggets vs Timberwolves 8:30pm ESPN DEN leads 3-2
MLB
Rangers 4 Guardians 0
Orioles 3 Blue Jays 2
Brewers 10 Pirates 2
White Sox 2 Nationals 0
Phillies 10 Mets 5
Rays 4 Red Sox 3
Yankees 4 Twins 0
MLB Today
Yankees vs Twins 1:10pm
Mets vs Phillies 6:40pm
Pirates vs Cubs 7:40pm
Cincinnati vs LA Dodgers 10:10pm
NHL
Avalanche 5 Stars 3 DAL leads 3-2
NHL Tonight
Rangers vs Hurricanes 7pm TNT NY leads 3-2
Oilers vs Canucks 10pm TNT tied 2-2
NFL News
* Patrick Mahomes and the Chiefs will start working on their third straight Super Bowl title as they host the Baltimore Ravens September 5th in the kickoff game, while the Los Angeles Rams are at the Detroit Lions in the Sunday night game on Sept. 8th in another playoff rematch.
* The Atlanta Falcons will host Russell Wilson and the Pittsburgh Steelers September 8th, as he debuts with Pittsburgh after being released by Denver.
* Arthur Smith is the Steelers’ offensive coordinator after being fired as Falcons coach.
BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS MAY 15, 2024
MURDER TRIAL STARTS TODAY IN NORTHUMBERLAND
The trial of accused murderer Ajani Uhuru will start today. According to the Daily Item, 23 year old Uhuru is accused by Sunbury police of shooting and killing Kareem Jakes in May 2022 at the Penn Jersey Food Mart on Fourth Street in Sunbury after an argument. Twelve Northumberland County residents, along with four alternates, were chosen earlier this week for the jury panel. After the incident, Uhuru allegedly fled the scene and was caught by the U.S. Marshals days after the shooting outside of Philadelphia. The trial begins this morning after 9am.
WANTED MAN CAPTURED IN WATSONTOWN
Watsontown police say they captured a wanted man May 8th after a borough resident informed police he was in town. According to local police, 43-year-old Jamari Brunson, who is was wanted on a prohibited weapons charge in Montour County, was seen by a resident on Main Street in Watsontown. Police made initial contact and Brunson eluded police, feeling after talking with police on the phone. He was captured shortly after and taken to Montour County to answer to his charges. Brunson was also charged with fleeing from police. Milton police also assisted at the scene.
MEMORIAL DAY CEREMONY SET FOR WILLIAMSPORT
Williamsport’s Annual Memorial Day ceremony is Saturday May 25th at Lycoming County Veterans Memorial Park. According to the Lycoming County Veterans Memorial Park Commission and the Lycoming County Veterans Council, Inc. the event will be at West Fourth Street and Wahoo Drive, starting at 11am. The keynote speaker will be Major General Mark J. Schindler, the Adjutant General of Pennsylvania. Among other honors, Major Schindler is responsible for the command and control of over 18,000 Army and Air National Guard members. Tents will be provided, and the event will be held rain or shine.
LOCK HAVEN FLY IN SCHEDULED FOR JUNE
Lock Haven’s 38th Sentimental Journey to Cub Haven Fly-in will begin June 18th and continue through Sunday the 23rd Each day will feature special perks, including Clinton County Day with free admission for Clinton County residents and Veteran appreciation Day, admitting all veterans free of charge. A banquet is scheduled for Friday evening that requires reservations and the public can enjoy seminars, contests, Fly-Bys, tours, corn roasts and even a kiddie hour is held each day. Find out more about the event with musical entertainment and camping available at sentimentaljourneyfly-in.com.
LOCK HAVEN MAN ARRESTED FOR CRIMINAL TRESPASS
A Lock Haven man has been charged with felony criminal trespass after he kicked another man’s door in, threatening him April 26th. According to North Central PA dot com, 25 year old Thomas Miller came to the home on Susquehanna Avenue responding to alleged messages and threatening phone calls he had received and threatened the accuser over a woman he was dating. Miller kicked at the basement door before the victim ran from the scene and called police. Officers arrived when Miller was waiting at the scene and took him into custody, his preliminary hearing is May 20th with bail set at 10 thousand dollars unsecured.
LEGISLATION ABOUT PANIC ALARMS INTRODUCED IN PA
Pennsylvania is one of five states considering silent panic alarms for schools as a defense against campus emergencies. According to the Center Square, the bipartisan plan was introduced in the Senate Monday, and is named “Alyssa’s Law” for one of the 17 victims of the shooting at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland, Fla in February of 2018, Alyssa Aldaheff. A school resource officer faced charges for idling outside the school for 40 minutes while the shooting continued inside. Senators Art Haywood, a Democrat from Philadelphia, and Senator Tracy Pennycuick, a Republican from Red Hill said the legislation allows for direct contact with local law enforcement and is a critical step in ensuring the safety of students in the Commonwealth.
SHIKELLAMY STUDENTS TO BE FEATURED ON PUBLIC TELEVISION
Students from Shikellamy Middle School will be featured on public television next Tuesday. According to the Daily Item, professionals from WVIA worked with students to write and produce an episode for a new program called WVIA Youth Voices, earlier this year. Administrators from Shikellamy expressed gratitude for students to have such a memorable experience, which was made possible by the 1994 Charles B. Degenstein Foundation. The program premiers May 21st at 7:30pm on WVIA.
WSO TO PERFORM AT LYCOMING COUNTY FAIRGROUNDS
There will be an outdoor concert at the Lycoming County Fairgrounds in June featuring the Williamsport Symphony Orchestra who will partner again for the second year, with the Hughesville Area Public Library. WSO musical selections are meant to pay tribute to the rugged allure of the Wild West. The East Lycoming School District’s High School Band will perform at the show, which will also include the Hughesville High School Drama Club. The event is June 2nd at 7pm and is free and open to the public, who are encouraged to bring blankets and lawn chairs. There will be family activities starting at 5:30pm at the fairgrounds, including a balloon performance from Air Weaver Balloons.
SPORTS
PIAA D4 Softball
South Williamsport 5 Central Mountain 2
Williamsport 7 Holy Redeemer 6
NP Liberty 10 Williamson 0
Baseball
Milton 6 Montgomery 1
South Williamsport 2 NP Mansfield 1
Hughesville 11 Lewisburg 7
Canton 9 Athens 6
NBA Playoffs
Knicks 121 Pacers 91 NY leads 3-2
Nuggets 112 Timberwolves 97 DEN leads 3-2
NBA Tonight
Cavaliers vs Celtics 7pm TNT BOS leads 3-1
Mavericks vs Thunder 9:30pm TNT tied 2-2
MLB
Guardians 7 Rangers 4
Phillies 4 Mets 0
Nationals 6 White Sox 3
Red Sox 5 Rays 4
Yankees 5 Twins 1
Brewers 4 Pirates 3
Blue Jays vs Orioles postponed/rain
MLB Tonight
Blue Jays vs Orioles 12:35pm
Pirates vs Brewers 1:10pm
Mets vs Phillies 6:40pm
Yankees vs Twins 7:40pm Prime VideoNHL 2nd Round
Bruins 2 Panthers 1 FLA leads 3-2
Oilers 3 Canucks 2 tied 2-2
NHL Tonight
Avalanche vs Stars 8pm ESPN DAL leads 3-1
BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS MAY 14, 2024
PHILLY MAN FILES SUIT AGAINST WILLIAMSPORT POLICE
A Philadelphia man is suing the Williamsport Bureau of Police, claiming they used extreme use of force during a raid at a hotel room on East Third Street IN Williamsport in the spring of 2021. According to the Sun Gazette, Antwan Hairston says he woke to Williamsport police banging on the door and alleges that when he opened the door, officers who didn’t have a warrant at first, injured him by hitting him on the head with a gun during the apprehension. Police say Hairston and another person who were staying in the room faced felony drug charges and Hairston was initially jailed but later released. The man’s federal lawsuit, asks for compensatory damages of $475,000, punitive damages of $250,000 and costs, states his Constitutional rights were violated, and wants the police to publicly apologize and be held accountable.
JERSEY MAN TO BE EXTRADICTED
A New Jersey man and accused murderer was arrested in Northumberland County this past Friday. Forty three year-old Aswad Spruiel, originally from Plainfield, New Jersey, had been in the sights of the US Marshals Service since last July and was arrested on South Coal Street in Shamokin. Spruiel’s extensive history of crime prompted the Marshals to deploy a ‘Violent Crimes Fugitive Task Force’, composed of 22 state, county and local officials including some in the Williamsport City police. Spruiel is currently being held in Northumberland County prison awaiting transport back to New Jersey.
BRIDGE WORK TO CLOSE ROAD IN WATSONTOWN
The Watsontown River Bridge will close today through Sunday, June 16 for a bridge preservation project. According to PennDOT, Brimmer Avenue will be closed between Route 15 in White Deer Township in Union County and Elm Street and Canal Street in Watsontown while they patch the bridge and also do epoxy overlay and milling of the bridge approaches. A detour using Main Street, Route 44, and Route 15, which will be in place for the 35 days.
COMPOST SITE CHANGES HOURS
Selinsgrove borough officials say non-resident dumping at the compost site is happening more frequently, and they’ve changed operating hours of the site to combat the problem. According to the borough website, Selinsgrove.org, extra costs are incurred and must be covered by local residents when extra debris is left to be ground up. Compost hours are 7:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. weekdays and 8 a.m. to noon the first and third Saturdays of the month, excluding holidays.
WOMAN ARRESTED AFTER THEFT ATTEMPT
A woman who stole her mother’s identification, allegedly tried to steal 10 thousand dollars from her bank account, but was stopped by the teller who reported the attempted theft to the mother who called police. According to North Central PA dot com, bank officials say 42 year old Suann Nicole Dyar attempted to withdraw the funds through the drive-through, but when requested to come inside for the transaction, she was unable to verify any information on her mother’s account, who later confirmed Dyer did not have permission to withdraw funds. Police found the mother’s ID at Dyer’s home. She is being charged with theft by deception and identity theft.
OFFICER IN CLINTON COUNTY CAUGHT SMUGGLING CONTRABAND
A corrections officer at Clinton County Correctional facility was charged with conspiracy after it discovered he was the source of contraband making it’s way to the inmates. According to North Central dot com, routine testing of inmates that turned up drug detection led to an investigation in which an inmate disclosed that officer 27 year old Adryan Lynn Selleck of Lock Haven was smuggling bundled items into the prison, including marijuana, methamphetamine , and bath salts. Selleck told officers April 28th, that he never inspected the contents he carried in and only thought cigarettes were inside. Along with felony contraband and controlled substance conspiracy, Selleck faces two felonies of conspiracy possession with intent to deliver. He posted 75 thousand dollars monetary bail and has a preliminary hearing June 25th.
BRIDGE WORK FOR A MONTH IN NORTHUMBERLAND COUNTY
There will be a bridge flushing project going on this week in Northumberland County, mostly on I-80, I-180 and Route 147. According to PennDOT, the project is part of a moving operation that will cause some lanes to be restricted with flaggers between the hours of 8am and 2pm on days when crews are on the scene working. Use 511PA dot com to check road conditions 24/7 across the Commonwealth.
FORTNITE CLUB AT JV BROWN LIBRARY
A club for teens who play the video game Fortnite has started at the James V. Brown Library in Williamsport and will meet monthly to use the library’s computers and meet with others to discuss the rated “T for Teen” game’s characters, strategies, and more. The club will get together on the 1st Friday of each month from 4:30 to 5:30 through December of 2024. The club meets in the teen area on the 2nd floor of the Welch Children’s Wing of the library on West 4th Street.
SPORTS
PIAA D4 Baseball
Montoursville 9 Canton 0
Williamsport 16 Midd-West 2 /5
Montgomery 7 Millville 0
Warrior Run 14 Muncy 1
South Wmsprt 4 Benton 2
Cntrl Columbia 9 Hughesville 8/8
NP Mansfield 10 Williamson 0 /5
Neumann 11 Sugar Valley 2
Cntrl Mntain 12 Lewisburg 3
Softball
Muncy 7 Mifflinburg 2
Williamsport 11 Lewisburg 1
Warrior Run 13 Montgomery 2
Danville 8 Hughesville 5
NBA Semifinals
Celtics 109 Cavaliers 102 BOS leads 3-1
Thunder 100 Mavericks 96 tied 2-2
NBA Semifinals Tonight
Pacers vs Knicks 8pm TNT tied 2-2
Timberwolves vs Nuggets tied 2-2
MLB
Guardians 7 Rangers 0
Blue Jays 3 Orioles 2
Phillies 5 Mets 4/10
Rays 5 Red Sox 3
Pirates 8 Brewers 6
D’Backs 6 Reds 5
Nationals vs White Sox postponed/Rain
MLB Today
Phillies vs Mets 1:10pm
Nationals vs White Sox 4:40pm
Pirates vs Brewers 7:40pm
Yankees vs Twins 7:40pm TBS
NHL 2nd Round
Hurricanes 4 Rangers 1 NY Leads 3-2
Stars 5 Avalanche 1 DAL leads 3-1
NHL Tonight
Bruins vs Panthers 7pm ESPN FLA leads 3-1
Canucks vs Oilers 9:30pm ESPN VAN leads 2-1
Classic Hits 93.3 WBZD
BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS MAY 10, 2024
HEAD-ON COLLISION IN LOYALSOCK TOWNSHIP
A head-on collision between a city bus and a car on the Golden Strip in Loyalsock Township shut down a lane of traffic yesterday afternoon and caused several injuries. According to the Sun Gazette, 4 passengers of a River Valley Transit bus and the driver of a Nissan Altima were treated for injuries with two vicitims involved transported to UPMC Williamsport. Police say the driver of the Altima turned in front of the bus to enter a parking lot near Westminster Drive just before 4:30pm. The accident caused authorities from Loyalsock Township and South Williamsport to divert traffic from the eastbound lanes while they cleaned up. One westbound lane of East Third Street remained open.
MILLVILLE MAN CHARGED WITH BURGLARY, DRUG POSSESSION
A 43 year old Millville man had an arraignment last Thursday in Lycoming County Court answering to two counts of felony charges of possession with intent to deliver methamphetamine from two incidents last year, as well as unauthorized use of a motor vehicle for illegally operating a golf cart on Gardner Road in Franklin Township back in November 2021. According to North Central PA dot com, for the burglary charge, Richard Dale Hunley, along with two others, allegedly broke into the state police impound lot in Montoursville and removed items from a car that had been seized. Hunley is free on 125 thousand dollars bail.
PERMANENT TRAFFIC LIGHT INSTALLED IN FAIRFIELD TOWNSHIP
Motorists are advised that the reconstruction and bridge replacement project continues this week at Lycoming Mall Drive Fairfield Road in Fairfield Township. According to PennDOT, yesterday the temporary traffic signals were installed at the intersection of Fairfield Road and Lycoming Mall Drive. At this time, the temporary traffic signals at that intersection are in full activation mode. Check 511PA dot com to check road conditions 24/7 across PA.
MOVIE PROCEEDS BENEFIT MUNCY FIRE DEPARTMENT
Muncy Township Volunteer Fire Company will benefit from the proceeds today through Sunday when District Cinema at the former Lycoming Mall will show screenings of new and retro movies as a fundraiser. According to Sun Gazette, in a recent news release, cinema operator Dipson Theaters who partnered with District Cinema LLC, says the soft opening of the theater this weekend, will include canned beer and mixed beverages for sale from Bald Birds Brewery Company that can be enjoyed during the show. Theater executives say they are grateful for the dedication of the Muncy Volunteer firefighters and hope the donation this weekend will help continue their “noble work”. Get details about the show times and listings online at thedistrict.dipsontheatres.com.
FATHER JAILED FOR NEGLECT OF MEDICAL ISSUES
A man from Mill Hall has been charged with felony endangerment of children after a Clinton County Children and Youth Services referral uncovered that three children in the home had serious medical needs that were neglected. According to North Central PA dot com, 39 year old Robert Edward Winslow allegedly refused dental care for a teenage child who had been having serious pain since early 2023, as well as refusal to refill medication prescriptions for another child who suffered from mental health issues. Winslow also refused to comply with caseworkers who visited the home dozens of times in 2023. Winslow must answer to 5 felony counts of endangering the welfare of a child. He remains incarcerated at Clinton County Prison in lieu of $150,000 bail.
JUVENILES PLEAD GUILTY TO POACHING DEER
A group of juveniles in Cambria County pleaded guilty to poaching deer in the fall of 2023. According to State Police, the Game Warden received reports of what they called a “poaching spree” before they found 10 deer were killed at night and left to rot. On the fourth night of the thrill killings, Troopers and Cresson Township police located and apprehended the suspects while they were actively engaged in the illegal activity. They each were arraigned with the Cambria County juvenile probation office, and with their plea deal, were convicted of felony unlawful killing or taking of big game, $5,000 in fines, probation, 50 hours of community service, and multiple years of hunting license revocation. If you know of wildlife crimes, contact the toll-free hotline of Operation Game Thief at 1-888-PGC-8001.
BUMP STOCK BILL FAILS IN HARRISBURG
Proposed bills in the Pennsylvania House of Representatives to ban bump stocks and formulate an electronic gun sale registry narrowly failed Tuesday, after lawmakers said the bills violate the second amendment, and the one about bump stocks duplicates federal laws. According to the Center Square, House Bill 335 and 2206, both failed with a Democrat from Johnstown issuing the tie-breaking no-vote.
LYCOMING COLLEGE COMMENCEMENT SATURDAY
Lycoming College’s 176th Commencement ceremony is tomorrow and will feature the commencement address by Williamsport Mayor Derek Slaughter. According to North Central PA dot com, Mayor Slaughter will be awarded an honorary Doctor of Laws from Lycoming College during the ceremony. Cathryn Brought, a graduating senior from Wellsboro, will also speak at the commencent ceremony which will be held outdoors Saturday at 2pm on the Fultz Quad unless it rains. A decision about moving commencement indoors will be made by 9am at Lycoming.edu in the case of inclement weather.
SPORTS
PIAA HS Softball
Hughesville 20 Wellsboro 4
NP Liberty 14 Troy 1
Montgomery 21 St John Neumann 2 /5
NBA East/West Semifinals
Cavaliers 118 Celtics 94 tied 1-1
Mavericks 119 Thunder 110 tied 1-1
NBA Semifinals Tonight
Knicks vs Pacers 7pm ESPN NY leads 2-0
Nuggets vs Timberwolves 9:30pm ESPN MIN leads 2-0
MLB
White Sox 3 Guardians 2
Diamondbacks 5 Reds 4
Astros 4 Yankees 3
Brewers 7 Cardinals 1
MLB Tonight
Cubs vs Pirates 6:40pm
Yankees vs Rays 6:50pm
Dbacks vs Orioles 7:05 AppleTv
Phillies vs Marlins 7:10pm
Nationals vs Red Sox 7:10pm
NHL
Rangers 3 Hurricanes 2 NY leads 3-0
Stars 5 Avalanche 3 tied 1-1
NHL Tonight
Panthers vs Bruins 7pm TNT tied 1-1
Oilers vs Canucks 10pm TNT VAN leads 1-0NASCAR Sunday
Goodyear 400 Darlington Raceway – Darlington SC
Pre-Race 2pm/ Green Flag 3pm
Twin Valley’s Talk Radio Network/ WILQ’s HD3
BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS MAY 9, 2024
MAN WHO ATTEMPTED TO TRAFFICK TEENS SENTENCED
A man who pleaded no contest to attempting to traffic his 12 year old child and another 16 year old was sentenced to state prison after his hearing Tuesday in Lycoming County Court. According to North Central PA dot com, court records say 41 year old Victor Eugene Booth and 36 year old Jennifer Lynn Gibbs, approached another man, and co-defendant Allen Arthur Frazier about trafficking the girls and were taking steps to groom them att he time. Gibbs was sentenced to 2 to 5 years in prison earlier this year, and Booth agreed to testify against Frazier whose trial was set to start last week, but was continued. Booth was sentenced to 2 to 4 years and will be on the sex offender registration and notification act (SORNA) list for 15 years upon release.
DRIVE-THRU RAGE BRINGS ABOUT AN ARREST FOR NC WOMAN
A 34 year old woman from North Carolina was arrested at the Dairy Queen in Selinsgrove after she became angry and threw a sauce cup at the drive-thru workers. According to North Cetnral PA dot com, State troopers responded when Toneika Askew was in the drive thru line on April 30th at about 1:30pm and while shouting threw the sauce back through the windowstriking a 50 year old victim. The woman was cited with disorderly conduct at the office of District Judge Scott A. Zeigler in Selinsgrove.
TONS OF TRASH COLLECTED IN APRIL FOR EARTH DAY IN NEPA
During Earth Day inspired cleanup activities between April 1st through the30th, over 950 volunteers collected over 40 thousand pounds of trash from 24 locations across the region. Partnering communities and local organizations held events in partnership with the Susquehanna Greenway Partnership and Keep Pennsylvania Beautiful initiative which supported the volunteers by helping to secure no-cost cleanup materials such as bags, gloves, and safety vests. Volunteers from Williamsport, South Williamsport, Lock Haven, Jersey Shore, Newberry, Montgomery, Milton, Lewisburg, Selinsgrove, Sunbury and other regions participated.
WILLIAMSPORT FOOTBALL STANDOUT, GARY BROWN, TO BE HONORED
One of the best running backs to ever play football at Williamsport Area High School will be memorialized with a street named for him where he grew up. According to the Sun Gazette, Williamsport City Council anticipates approving an upcoming ordinance that will call a portion of Lycoming Street – the blocks between Walnut and Elmira Streets , Gary Leroy Brown Way. Brown, who passed in 2022 from cancer at age 52, played college football for Penn State, and was then drafted by the Houston Oilers in 1991 beginning an NFL career that lasted 8 seasons, resulted in 4300 yards rushing and 21 touchdowns.
SHAMOKIN MAN ARRESTED FOR ASSAULT
Police in Shamokin observed a man assault a woman and threaten with a handgun at the House of Wins on Monday, and took him into custody. According to North Central PA dot com, 39 year old Terrance G. Mitchell, known as Razor, was seen at the East Independence street establishment arguing with and assaulting the victim, before police arrived on the scene. Police say Mitchell is not able to carry a gun from a prior conviction, and they arrested him on charges of felony aggravated assault, possession of a firearm and other charges. He was taken to Northumberland County Prison in liue of 75 thousand dollars bail. His preliminary hearing is May 28th.
NURSE WHO KILLED 22 PEOPLE SENTENCED TO LIFE WITHOUT PAROLE
A Butler County woman who, as a nurse, intentionally administered lethal doses of insulin to patients at several skilled nursing facilities in 2022, has been sentenced to life in prison without the possibility of parole. According to North Central PA dot com, Heather Pressdee pleaded guilty to three counts of first-degree murder, and 19 counts of criminal attempt to commit murder after 22 patients in her care at different facilities in Allegheny, Armstrong, Butler, and Westmoreland counties , died immediately or soon after from the insulin injections. The PA Attorney General said that Pressdee was given three consecutive life sentences regarding three counts of first degree murder, plus 380 to 760 years of consecutive incarceration for the 19 counts of criminal attempt. She was arrested and has remained incarcerated since May of 2023.
NEW MENTAL HEALTH FACILITY
There was a groundbreaking in Danville recently for a new mental health treatment facility that will be for in and outpatient treatment, for all ages to be run by Acadia Health care for Geisinger. According to Geisinger, construction has begun on the state-of-the-art site at 206 Maria Hall Drive, and it will feature a 96-bed behavioral health hospital to address the growing need for accessible, high-quality behavioral health services in central Pennsylvania. The facility is expect to open during the summer of 2025.
UPCOMING TALK ABOUT FLOODING AT LYCOMING COLLEGE
There will be a free talk about the history of flooding in Lycoming County by an award winning author who publishes books and photographs about rivers, conservation, and adventure travel, hosted by the Lycoming College Clean Water Institute this month. According to North Central PA dot com, Tim Palmer, who wrote, “Seek Higher Ground: The Natural Solution To Our Urgent Flooding Crisis,” will speak May 17th at 2pm in the Barclay Room at Lycoming College and discuss how global warming will sharply intensify flooding, and will also provide an account of the Hurricane Agnes flood of 1972. Find out more at Lycoming.edu.
SPORTS
PIAA D4 Baseball
Hughesville 5 Jersey Shore 4
Muncy 17 Sugar Valley 5
Montgomery 15 Bucktail 0 /3
Softball
Loyalsock 8 Warrior Run 1
South Wmsprt 7 Danville 5
Muncy 15 Sugar Valley 0 /3
Selinsgrove 6 Williamsport 2
NBA
Knicks 130 Pacers 121 NY leads 2-0
NBA East/West Semifinals Tonight
Cavaliers vs Celtics 7pm BOS leads 2-0
Mavericks vs Thunder 9:30pm OKC leads 1-0
MLB
Guardians 5 Tigers 4
Angels 5 Pirates 4
Blue Jays 5 Phillies 3
Diamondbacks 4 Reds 3
Orioles 7 Nationals 6
Yankees 9 Astros 4
Braves 5 Red Sox 0
Mets vs Cardinals postponed/rain
MLB Today
Arizona vs Cincinnati 1:10pm
Houston vs NY Yankees 5:05
Cleveland vs Chicago White Sox 7:40pm
NHL
East/West 2nd Round Playoffs
Panthers 6 Bruins 1 tied 1-1
Canucks 5 Oilers 4 VAN leads 1-0
NHL Tonight 2nd Round
Rangers vs Hurricanes 7pm TNT NYR lead 2-0
Avalanche vs Stars 9:30pm TNT COL leads 1-0