BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS FEBRUARY 20, 2024
STANDOFF IN WILLIAMSPORT ENDS PEACEFULLY
City police arrested a man allegedly responsible for a stand-off with law enforcement yesterday after he threatened his pregnant girlfriend who then locked herself in a bathroom for safety at Timberland Apartments in Williamsport beginning at about 10 am. According to the Sun Gazette, originally police went to the apartment where 20 year old Rynell Brooks-Brown was with the victim who police say had a friend call 911 for a disturbance involving a firearm. When there was no response at the residence, the incident escalated to the standoff involving the city’s Special Response Team and a tactical police team from Columbia County. The woman was released from the home around 2pm and Brooks-Brown walked out about 10 minutes later. He was arraigned Monday evening and committed to the Lycoming County Prison in lieu of $300,000 bail.
ARREST AFTER MAN ASSAULTS A JUVENILE
State police responded to an assault February 7th at the Sheetz in Woodward Township. According to North Central PA dot com, 31 year old Noah Evan Regan arrived at the convenience store with a woman and a juvenile in the car and allegedly punched and later grabbed the juvenile by the throat while they were at the convenience store at about 3pm. Both the victim and the woman exited the car before Regan drove from the scene. Police arrested the man and charged him with simple assault and harassment. Regan is at the Lycoming County Prison on $10,000 monetary bail.
PENNSYLVANIA BEAR HARVEST NUMBERS
The Game Commission has released the numbers for Pennsylvania’s black bear harvest for 2023. According to the report, the number of hunters reached a record-breaking 206,124, making it the fourth-highest total ever recorded, but there was a slight decrease in the bear harvest compared to 2022. Pennsylvania hunters still managed to take 2,920 bears in 2023. Tioga County had the highest bear harvest among counties with 176. Lycoming County had 170 bears, Potter -155 bears, Pike County – 142 bears, and Bradford County had 138 bears.
SUNBURY WILL PROCESS RECYCLABLES IN MARCH
Sunbury will collect curbside recyclables this spring. According to the Daily Item, the Sunbury Municipal Authority will process the aluminum cans, newspapers, sorted glass bottles and jars on March 22nd 2024. The transfer station on South Fourth Street is open for drop-offs Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays from 7:30am to 3:30pm. and Saturdays from 7am to 3pm. In order to meet state recycling requirements as stated in Act 101, Pennsylvania’s Recycling Law, commercial, municipal and institutional establishments may use the Sunbury facility.
NORRY MAN FOUND DECEASED NEAR STATE PARK
The body of a man who lived in Northumberland County was found near Bald Eagle State Forest this weekend. According to North Central PA dot com, DCNR released information that they were searching for 62 year old Michael W. Benner who officials say had been missing since February 10th. The efforts of the Union County West End Volunteer Fire Company, the Mifflinburg Hose Volunteer Fire Company, and the New Berlin Volunteer Fire Company resulted in locating the deceased man about 4pm Saturday afternoon. There was no information released about the cause of death for Benner, who was found on private owned land adjacent to the National State forest.
INFO STILL BEING SOUGHT IN COLD CASE
A $5,000 reward is now being offered for information about the disappearance of former Centre County District Attorney Ray Gricar in Lewisburg in 2005. According to the Daily Item, State police at Hollidaysburg Station are still investigating the disappearance of Gricar on April 15, 2005, from Bellefonte after police say he took a half-day off to go antiquing and wasn’t seen again. His car was found at the Street of Shops in Lewisburg and his computer found months later in the Susquehanna. If you have any information that could help the investigation, call Crimestoppers at 1-800-4PA-TIPS (8477).
NEW HEALTH CARE SYSTEM FOR INMATES
The Northumberland County Jail will be able to participate in a new health care system. According to the Daily Item, all three Northumberland County Commissioners voted to enter into an intergovernmental cooperation agreement, which allows the jail to participate in a Prison Inmate Medical Cost Containment Program run through the County Commissioners Association of Pennsylvania. The new system set to begin in March, is designed to provide a quality managed care program, including a primary care physician who provides regular care.
UPCOMING ONLINE FLY-TYING CLASS
There will be a four week virtual online instructional fly-tying program hosted by the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission starting Tuesday, March 5th at 7pm. According to Fish and boat dot com, The program is conducted on-line by PFBC staff and trained Fishing Skills Instructors who will introduce the aquatic macroinvertebrates and the flies that imitate them; basic fly tying equipment and materials; and will feature live tying demonstrations. Participants will not need to purchase any materials for the class. Find out details at fish and boat dot com, those who register will receive materials via email for the program.
SPORTS
NASCAR
#24 William Byron drove for his first career Daytona 500 win and snapped Hendrick Motorsports’ nine-race Daytona 500 losing streak Monday in the rain-delayed “Great American Race.” The last Hendrick driver to win the Daytona 500 was Dale Earnhardt Jr. in 2014.
- Alex Bowman was 2nd; followed by Christopher Bell, Corey LaJoie, and Bubba Wallace rounded out the top 5.
NHL
Ducks 4 Sabres 3
Bruins 4 Stars 3
Maple Leafs 4 Blues 2
Wild 10 Canucks 7
Red Wings 4 Kraken 3
Senators 4 Lightning 2
NHL Tonight
Dallas vs NY Rangers 7pm
NY Islanders vs Pittsburgh 7pm
New Jersey vs Washington 7pm
NCAA Men’s Basketball
Houston 73 Iowa State 65
NCAA Men’s Basketball Tonight
Tennessee vs Missouri 7pm
UConn vs Creighton 8:30 FS1
Baylor vs BYU 9pm ESPN
TCU vs Texas Tech 9pm ESPN2
NBA Thursday
Magic vs Cavaliers 7pm
Pistons vs Pacers 7pm
Knicks vs 76ers 7pm
Nets vs Raptors 7pm
Suns vs Mavericks 7:30pm TNT
Celtics vs Bulls 8pm
Lakers vs Warriors 10pm TNT
BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS FEBRUARY 19, 2024
PERSON OF INTEREST IN CITY SHOOTING WILL STAY IN JAIL
The man arrested on a protection from abuse order after the fatal shooting of 37 year old Alisha Seese, of Williamsport, and 37 year old Ronald Dailey Jr. of Jersey Shore near Lycoming Engines on January 12th will remain in jail. According to the Sun Gazette, a preliminary hearing Friday determined that 57-year-old Troy Bailey will remain in custody and the prosecution has filed a motion to seal charges for 60 days. This motion was then signed by Judge Eric Linhardt. According to Penn Live, Court documents show that Seese obtained for herself and four children ages 9, 10, 13 and 17, a PFA against Troy Bennett Bailey, 57, of Williamsport on December 15th.
MOUNT CARMEL FIRE A TOTAL LOSS
The fire marshal determined that the fire Friday that destroyed a Mount Carmel business has an undetermined cause due to the degree of the damage. According to the Daily Item, Mount Carmel Fire officials reported the fire was active Friday at 3am at Moser Sanitation, on the 400 block of South Market Street with over 100 firefighters responding in the windy and cold conditions. Reports say the fire was under control by 7:30 am, but not before one firefighter suffered a minor injury and the building deemed a total loss.
NEW FINES FOR SOUTH SIDE BLIGHT
Home owners in South Williamsport who don’t maintain their property up to code are facing stiffer fines for offenses moving forward. According to the Sun Gazette, the South Williamsport Borough Council approved an ordinance amendment last week to increase the cost of citations for high grass and weeds, garbage or dilapidated conditions. Officials from the borough say the first offense will now carry a 500 dollar fine, up from 25 dollars and subsequent citations issued after that will increase to one thousand dollars and could incur jail time.
HACKED COURT WEBSITES IN HARRISBURG RESTORED
The Pennsylvania court system websites and services that were compromised during a denial of services cyber-attack earlier in February, have been restored this week. According to the Sun Gazette, the courts agency never received any ransom notes or demands to restore service during the shut down. A federal investigation is continuing into the source of the problems, and a suspect has not yet been named. Cybersecurity experts say denial-of-service hackers are often state-backed actors seeking money and can use tactics to try to hide their identity.
SUSPECT IN CUSTODY OVER STABBING
A stabbing last Friday has sent a Mill Hall man to the hospital and a Williamsport man to Lycoming County Prison. According to the Sun Gazette, Lycoming Regional Police say the incident happened in the 300 block of South Lincoln Avenue and 22-year-old Dalton Lee Johnson stands accused of stabbing 30-year-old Aaron Fisher during the confrontation. Johnson was arraigned before District Judge Denise Dieter on aggravated and simple assault charges, recklessly endangering another person and other charges. Johnson was incarcerated in lieu of $85,000 bail.
SUSPECT IN DECEMBER SHOOTING IN CUSTODY
US Marshals have arrested a man wanted for a December 9th shooting in Williamsport. According to North Central PA dot com, 33 year old Benjamin Villanueva was the suspect who allegedly shot Jermaine Mullen in the 1000 block of Memorial Avenue at about 3:30am. During an investigation, police discovered evidence that showed Villanueva wearing clothing that was later found discarded that matched the suspect in videos that were submitted to police. Villanueva is facing charges for criminal homicide, aggravated assault, robbery and more. With no bail listed.
MANSFIELD STATE POLICE HOLDING CITIZENS POLICE ACADEMY
Tioga County residents are invited to attend a 7-week “Citizen’s Police Academy” program designed to expose those interested in learning more about local law enforcement, the types of training officers receive, and general law enforcement concepts and responsibilities. According to PA State police, seven Wednesday evening sessions at the Mansfield Fire Hall begin March 6th, participants 18 and older receive instruction and have hands-on learning of multiple police procedures and techniques. Applications are available at the PA State Police barracks in Mansfield, or by calling 570-560-1361 and should be submitted by Friday March 1st.
THON BREAKS THE RECORD AGAIN
The 46 hour Dance Marathon fundraising event at Penn State, called THON, had another record breaking year over the weekend. According to the Centre Daily times, the event that raises money for childhood cancers raised 16,955,683.63, 1.9 million more than last year’s event. THON has a 47-year partnership with Four Diamonds, raising money so that families in the program never pay for a single medical bill at Penn State Health Children’s Hospital. THON’s live stream, was watched by over 32 thousand unique households in 58 countries. Donations can still be made online for those who were unable to attend at THON.org.
SPORTS
NBA All Star Game
Eastern Conference set the all-time scoring record by becoming the first team to surpass 200 points in a 211-186 victory over the Western Conference.
NCAA Men’s Basketball Sunday
Ohio State 73 (2) Purdue 69
S. Florida 90 (24) Florida Atlantic 86
NCAA Basketball Tonight
(21)Virginia vs Virginia Tech 7pm ESPN
(10)Iowa State vs (3) Houston 9pm ESPN
NHL Sunday
Rangers 6 Islanders 5
Kings 2 Penguins 1
Avalance 4 Coyotes 3
NHL Tonight
Ducks vs Sabres 12:30pm ESPN+
Stars vs Bruins 1pm ESPN+
Senators vs Lightning 7pm NHL Net
NASCAR
A rainy weekend has caused Nascar to postpone the season-opening Daytona 500 until today at 4pm at Daytona International Speedway. Listen on TWIN Valley’s Talk Radio Network or WILQ’s HD3
MLB News
*Shohei Ohtani did not participate in live batting practice Sunday, and his Los Angeles Dodgers spring training debut is on hold.
*Dodgers manager Dave Roberts said Ohtani, who is coming back from elbow surgery, will not play in Thursday’s opener against the San Diego Padres.
*The two-time American League MVP won’t pitch this season following right elbow surgery on Sept. 19 but hopes to be ready as a hitter by the March 20 opener against the Padres in Seoul, South Korea.
* The two-time MVP signed a record $700 million, 10-year contract as a free agent in December.
BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS FEBRUARY 16, 2024
MORNING WIND ADVISORY TODAY
A wind advisory remains in effect this morning until about 10 am with winds around 20 to 25 miles per hour and gusts in some areas could be up to 45 miles per hour. High profile vehicles are advised to use caution while on the roadway. Electricity issues that plagued southern counties after heavy wet snow fell Monday night, have been mostly resolved with the PPL outage map showing only a few hundred customers across the region experiencing problems with electric service.
NO BAIL FOR MAN WHO SHOT BROTHER IN LAW
The man accused of shooting his brother in law August 17th in the lobby at a Williamsport’s Cable Services Company, was denied bail Tuesday in Lycoming County Court. According to Penn Live, the defense lawyer of 66 year old Kenneth Michaels, said he shot his relative, John Roskowski, in self-defense, but Judge Ryan Tira said that despite testimony of angry and aggressive words being exchanged, Roskowski made no specific threats of violence. Michaels may be facing a life sentence, and will wait behind bars for his upcoming murder trial. A PA Superior Court is set to review Tira’s decision.
MUNCY VOTES IN LERTA TAX BREAKS FOR “THE DISTRICT”
Muncy Township supervisors voted for an intermunicipal agreement for a 10-year Local Economic Revitalization Tax Assistance (LERTA) for the former Lycoming Mall site known now as “The District at Lycoming Valley” . According to the Sun Gazette, the president and CEO of the WIlliamsprot Lycoming Chamber said the tax break LERTA gives is a key tool to the developers in attracting new commercial tenants to the redevelopment site. Famvest, the developers of the 135-acre Lycoming Mall property get the tax break on any new development, until LERTA expires.
FUNDING FOR REARCH OF NATIVE PA SPECIES
Penn State Agricultural Sciences department has been given over 140 thousand dollars in state funding awarded by the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources under the Wild Resource Conservation Program, which will support three studies to protect local natural habitat. According to state legislators the funding is to advance research ensuring that our native species continue to thrive into the future. Funding will go for studying dissolved oxygen concentrations and their effect on the Chesapeake Logperch, a newly discovered native narrow-leaf ramps, and a recovery plan for Scarlet Paintbrush plant.
MOUNT CARMEL FIRE
Fire Crews are battling the windy and icy conditions, working a blaze this morning at a commercial property in Mount Carmel. According to the Daily Item, firefighters were called at around 4am to the fire along South Market Street at Moser’s Sanitation, with flames spreading to a property along East Buick Street. According to social media posts by the Northumberland County’s Fire & rescue Firewire, the building was fully involved. No injuries have been reported.
MEDICAL EPISODE LEADS TO CAR ACCIDENT
State police say a woman driving in West Chillisquaque Township had an accident after a medical episode while driving. According to State police in Northumberland County, Carolyn Reimensnyder went off the right side of on Housels Run Road while she was driving northbound around 1pm last Friday ultimately striking a fire hydrant and a utility pole. EMS arrived on the scene and transported Reimensnyder to Evangelical Community Hospital with unknown injuries.
DEAD POSSUM LEAFT IN MAILBOX
An elderly man called police February 9th after vandals put a dead possum in his mailbox. According to North Central PA dot com, state police at Selinsgrove began an investigation when the 88 year old victim called from his Beaver Springs home along the 4000 block of Ridge Road when he found the dead animal. If you have any information about the suspect call Selinsgrove State police barracks at 570-374-8145.
NEW GAME WARDEN CADETS BEING SOUGHT
The Game Commission is looking for more Game Wardens. According to North Central PA dot com, a dozen new cadets were recently commissioned after 44 weeks of training including 10 weeks of field training and graduated February 3rd. Potential Game wardens go through intensive training about wildlife forensics, wildlife surveys, hunter education instruction and more. The PA Game Commission is taking applications at this time for new cadets for new classes. Go to pgc.pa.gov for application information.
SPORTS
PIAA HS Basketball
Girls
NTL Showdown
Williamson 46 Northeast Bradford 39
Troy 57 North Penn-Mansfield 29
St. John Neumann 52 Line Mountain 30
Montgomery 48 CMVT 12
Milton 40 Central Mountain 39
Muncy 45 Sullivan County 9
Athens 43 Wyalusing 37
Boys
NTL Showdown
NP-Mansfield 65 NE Bradford 50
Troy 2 Cowanesque Valley 0 (FFT)
PHAC Tournament
Danville 54 Shamokin 53
Loyalsock 53 Selinsgrove 40
Montgomery 58 Millville 50
Curwensville 72 Bucktail 59
NCAA Women’s Basketball News
*Iowa Senior Caitlin Clark made history Thursday during a home game against the Michigan Wolverines, breaking the NCAA Division I women’s scoring record. She reached the mark with her 3,528th point in four years.
*She surpassed Kelsey Plum, who has won two WNBA championships with the Las Vegas Aces. Plum set the mark with 3,527 points at Washington from 2013-17.
*Clark’s record-breaking bucket last night was a deep 3-pointer from the logo.
NBA
Grizzlies 113 Bucks 110
Warriors 140 Jazz 137
Timberwolves 128 Trail Blazers 91
NHL
Maple Leafs 4 Flyers 3
Ducks 5 Senators 1
Kings 2 Devils 1
Rangers 7 Canadiens 4
Penguins 4 Blackhawks 1
NASCAR THURSDAY NIGHT
Bluegreen Vacations Duels – Daytona
Tyler Reddick won the first 150-mile race that is part of how the field is set Sunday for the season opener. Christopher Bell of Joe Gibbs Racing won the second race – both driving Toyota.
Daytona 500 Sunday – Pre-race coverage 1:30pm/Green Flag racing 2:30pm on TWIN
BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS FEBRUARY 15, 2024
WOMAN SENTENCED FOR TRAFFICKING MINOR CHILDREN
A Williamsport woman who was arrested along with a co-defendant for trafficking minor girls in exchange for drugs and money was sentenced Tuesday in Lycoming County court. According to North Central PA dot com, 36 year old Jennifer Gibbs pleaded guilty to two felony counts of attempted trafficking in individuals in December of 2023 and was given two to five years incarceration in state prison and five years supervision upon release by President Judge Nancy Butts. Gibb’s codefendant, Allen Frazier faces several counts of trafficking individuals, unlawful contact with a minor, and corruption of minors. He is due in court this March and is expected to plead guilty.
POLICE SEEK WOMAN INVOLVED IN CRIME RING
A woman who pleaded guilty in Clinton County Court to third-degree felony retail theft in June of 2022, has not attended her court hearings as directed by probation and is being sought by the Clinton County Sheriff’s office. According to North Central PA dot com, 26 year old Savannah Danielle Dillard of Flint, Michigan, is allegedly is part of a crime ring who purchase items at stores using fraudulent means to purchase and then return the items at another store of the chain in another town. The Clinton County Sheriff is asking anyone with information as to Dillard’s whereabouts to submit a tip at clinton.crimewatchpa.com.
GRANT FOR POLICE SOFTWARE UPGRADE
A Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency grant for 1.5 million dollars obtained by the city of Williamsport, will be used to upgrade the Communications and records management for the Williamsport Bureau of Police. According to the Sun Gazette, a former records-management system the police used has been phased out and a news system called E-Force will replace it. The technology of the E-Force system will help law enforcement officers on their beats, and because of the grant, no city funding was used in the purchase.
RARE WHISKEY TO BE AVAILABLE BY LOTTERY
A limited-release lottery is available for Pennsylvania residents who want to buy rare whiskeys, and the deadline to opt-in is this Friday. According to the Pennsylvania Liquor Control Board, whiskey from Pappy Van Winkle and Buffalo Trace Antique Collections will be featured in two lotteries in which winners will be selected at random to purchase one bottle in the collection; winners are then excluded from later drawings. Residents and licensees have until 5pm Friday to opt in online to one or more of the lotteries and drawings. Get details at fine wine and good spirits dot com.
INMATE FOUND UNRESPONSIVE IN CELL
A 24 year old man who was serving a 4 to 8 year sentence for making terroristic conviction from Venango County, was found unresponsive in a cell at SCI Coal Township last Friday. According to authorities from State Correctional Institution, prison staff found Andrew Shawgo, of Waterford, PA in his cell and performed life saving measures. He was transported to Geisinger Hospital where he was pronounced dead on Monday. An investigation into Shawgo’s death is underway by state police and the Northumberland County Coroner’s office.
POLICE LOOK FOR DIESEL THIEF
State Police at Milton say a thief stole diesel from three Union County school buses over the weekend. According to North Central PA dot com, between Friday at 11am and 9am Monday, a suspect was on a lot on River Road in White Deer Township and took 75 gallons of the fuel from the vehicles owned by Fishing Creek Transport. If you have information about the theft or the suspect or suspects, please call Milton State Police 570-524-2662.
TOWNSHIP LOST DATA FOLLOWING COMPUTER CRASH
Due to a hardware failure and the lack of a viable backup, East Buffalo Township has lost much of its data and digital history after a recent computer crash. According to the Daily Item, the municipality told residents at Monday night’s public meeting that the contracted computer system back-ups were not completed by Computition, of Lewisburg, and a portion of the records of the township are lost. The financial system is backed up, so bill paying will not be an issue, and ordinances and board agendas and minutes are all on a third-party website and available. Officials are now back to using physical filing systems and ask for the community’s patience while they build everything back up from hard copies and the other sites.
SELINSGROVE LIBRARY SEEKS STORIES ABOUT NAMESAKE
An interactive mural has been commissioned at the Rudy Gelnett Memorial Library in Selinsgrove, and the artist is seeking information from people who knew the man after whom the library was named. According to the Daily Item, a story circle from will be held February 29th by artist Marcellus Hammond and his crew so that participants can share stories about Gelnett. The mural is set to be installed inside the library and will have an interactive QR code to bring the artwork to life. Call the Assistant Director of the Rudy Gelnett Memorial Library, Mitch Alday, at 570-374-7163 for details about participating in the story circle.
SPORTS
PIAA HS Basketball
Boys
Williamsport 63 La Academia Partnership Charter 52
South Wmspt 69 Milton 59
Girls
Loyalsock 50 Jersey Shore 41
Cntrl Col. 42 Hughesville 40
Milton 48 Danville 30
NCAA Men’s Basketball
UConn 101 DePaul 65
Tennessee 92 Arkansas 63
Auburn 101 South Carolina 61
Notre Dame 58 Georgia Tech 55
Michigan St. 80 Penn State 72
The Lock Haven Bald Eagles upset the number 10 team in the country, East Stroudsburg, 74-69 at Thomas Field House yesterday – beating a top-10 team twice in one season for the first time in program-history.
NCAA Men’s Basketball Tonight
Temple vs Florida Atlantic 7pm ESPN2
NBA
Magic 118 Knicks 100
Heat 109 76ers 104
Pacers 127 Raptors 125
Pelicans 133 Wizards 126
Mavericks 116 Spurs 93
Lakers 138 Jazz 122
Clippers 130 Warriors 125
Celtics 136 Nets 86
NBA News
the NBA-leading Boston Celtics routed the Brooklyn Nets 136-86 on Wednesday night to become just the third team in league history to post multiple 50-point wins in a season. The victory also was Joe Mazzulla’s 100th as head coach.
NBA Tonight
Milwaukee vs Memphis 8:30pm TNT
Golden State vs Utah 9pm
Minnesota vs Portland 10pm
NHL
Panthers 5 Penguins 2
Jets 1 Sharks 0
Wild 3 Coyotes 1
NHL Tonight
Flyers vs Maple Leafs 7pm
Kings vs Devils 7pm
Canadiens vs NY Rangers 7pm
Penguins vs Blackhawks 8:30pm
BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS FEBRUARY 14, 2024
SCHOOL BUS BRAKE FIRE IN JERSEY SHORE
The brakes of a Jersey Shore school bus caught fire Monday morning, requiring students to evacuate the vehicle. The fire also brought about an injury to an adult passerby who stopped to help. According to the Lycoming Regional Police department, police were dispatched to Route 220 near the Main Street exit Monday at about 7:45am when fire was discovered. As they arrived, a man who had a fire extinguisher at the scene tried to put out the fire, but was injured when a tire exploded in his face. The man who was not identified, was transported to Geisinger Jersey Shore Hospital and Jersey Shore Firefighters put out the fire. The students were picked up in a second school district bus, provided by Susquehanna Transit and were taken to the middle or high school.
FATAL PEDESTRIAN ACCIDENT IN MILTON
An elderly woman was involved in a fatal car accident Saturday afternoon in Milton. According to Milton Police Department, 73 year old Gloria Jean Baker tried to cross Arch Street on foot and was hit by a vehicle traveling north. EMS arrived and transported Baker, who was found lying in the street, to Evangelical Community Hospital where she succumbed to her injuries. The intersection near Arch Street was closed down for about an hour. Police have opened an investigation into the crash.
ELECTRIC SERVICE HAMPERED BY THE SNOW STORM THIS WEEK
Thousands more PPL Electricity customers have their power restored today after the winter storm dropped heavy, wet snow across PPL Electric Utilities’ service territory Monday night into Tuesday morning. A look at the online outage map says that there are still more than 20 thousand customers experiencing outages this morning. According to PPL, the company has additional line and forestry crews working around the clock to restore power after about 90 thousand customers were reported to be down yesterday afternoon. PPL says the estimated restoration times will be updated as they work through the restoration effort. Full restoration could take through Thursday for some customers.
BILLTOWN BLUES EARLY BIRD TICKETS AVAILABLE
This June 21st and 22nd brings the Annual 2-day Billtown Blues Festival back for the 34th year and they will feature world class blues music from twelve performances. According to billtownblues dot org, the Lycoming County Fairgrounds in Hughesville will host the event that traditionally opens with a performance from the Uptown Music Collective Blues Band. Find info about early bird tickets through March 9th and more about the festival lineup at www.billtownblues.org.
ROAD CLOSURES FROM DOWNED UTILITIES
In the counties that were hit harder by snowfall yesterday, they are still dealing with some road closures from downed trees or utilities and crews continue to work to fix the issues today. According to PennDOT, in Northumberland County Greenbriar Road between Hooflander Road in Jordan Township and Schwaben Creek Road in Washington Township is the latest incidence of a road closure from the impact of the storm. In Columbia County, Middle Road between Power Line Road and Pine Swamp Road in Cleveland Township has reopened. Check conditions of roads before you go at 511PA dot com.
WOMAN SENTENCED FOR NOT REPORTING DEATH OF FRIEND
The woman who was arrested for staying in a Williamsport apartment with the remains of a deceased friend without reporting the death from drug use to the police for several days, was sentenced yesterday to up to 2 years in prison. According to the Sun Gazette, after police found the body of Ronald Ulmer, they later discovered that Amber Burkhart had been staying in the residence and knew the man had died. Along with jail time, Burkhart has been sentenced with community service and must write a letter of apology to the deceased man’s family. She must also pay restitution and attend mental health court where she may be found eligible for work release.
LIGHT FIXTURE DESTROYED IN LEWISBURG
An iconic Lewisburg Borough Tri-globe Street Light was struck by a car and destroyed this weekend. According to a social media post by Lewisburg Borough, the light was at the end of the Lewisburg bridge in Soldiers Park located at North Water Street and Market Street and was hit Saturday night with a lot of force, possibly by a tractor trailer or box truck that easily left the scene. Please contact the Lewisburg Borough Office at 570-523-3614 or email [email protected] if you have any information.
DMV CLOSED FOR PRESIDENT’S DAY WEEKEND
The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) announced this week that all driver license and photo centers, including its full-service center in Harrisburg, will be closed Saturday, February 17, through Monday, February 19, in observance of Presidents Day. Customers may still obtain a variety of driver and vehicle products and services, including all forms, publications and driver training manuals, online through dmv.pa.gov.
SPORTS
PIAA HS Basketball
Boys
Wyalusing 42 Sullivan County 40
Girls
Loyalsock 58 Northeast Bradford 31
Millville 43 Northwest 32
NCAA Basketball
Syracuse 86 North Carolina 79
Baylor 79 Oklahoma 62
Illinois 97 Michigan 68
Creighton 94 Georgetown 72
Wisconsin 62 Ohio State 54
Pitt 74 Virginia 63
Kentucky 75 Ole Miss 63
NBA
Celtics 118 Nets 110
* Thunder 127 Magic 113
Heat 123 Bucks 97
Suns 130 Kings 125
Timberwolves 121 Trail Blazers 109
Lakers 125 Pistons 111
NBA Tonight
Miami Heat vs Phila 76ers 7pm
Knicks vs Orlando 7pm
Brooklyn Nets vs Boston Celtics 7:30pm
Chicago vs Cleveland 7:30pm ESPN
Clippers vs Golden State 10pm ESPN
NBA NEWS
* Shaquille O’Neal became the first player in Orlando Magic franchise history to have his jersey retired last night. The Magic raised O’Neal’s No. 32 jersey into the rafters at the Kia Center following their 127-113 loss to the Oklahoma City Thunder.
* O’Neal was the No. 1 overall pick in the 1992 NBA Draft, and was named Rookie of the Year that season, leading the team to a 41-41 record – He left for the Lakers three seasons later.
* The Magic, who are celebrating their 35th season, never retired a number for a player, but decided their anniversary season was the right time.
NHL
Lightning 3 Bruins 2
Maple Leafs 4 Blues 1
Senators 6 Blue Jackets 3
Avalanche 6 Capitals 3
Kraken 2 Islanders 1
Devils 4 Predators 2
NHL Tonight
Florida vs Pittsburgh 7:30pm TNT
BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS FEBRUARY 9, 2024
SUNBURY MAN FOUND NOT GUILTY OF RAPE
The Sunbury man accused of rape and sexual assault in February 2020 was found not guilty yesterday in Northumberland County court. According to the Daily Item, the jury took 45 minutes to deliberate about the case involving 26 year old Daniel Severn after a two-day trial. Court records say Severn was a friend of the victim and the ex-boyfriend of the victim, about whom she had confided with Savern prior to the alleged assault. The defense said the woman asked him to stay with her since she said she had felt threatened. The court decision was handed down four years to the day Severn was accused of the crimes.
LYCO COMS WILL NOT SEAK APPEAL IN CONTROLLER CASE
The Lycoming County Commissioners announced this week that they will no longer seek any appeals in the legal battle between themselves and county Controller, Krista Rogers. According to the Sun Gazette, the commissioners voted to transfer the positions that were moved from Rogers’ department back to her office. Those positions include senior accountant, accountant I, accountant II, lead fiscal technician, financial technician and payroll/AP specialist. The latest court ruling about the case brought about the confirmation of a previous ruling that the Controller’s office should oversee those positions.
NORRY CORONER LOOKING FOR FAMILY INFORMATION
Northumberland County officials are asking the public for help in finding the blood relatives of two local men. According to the Daily Item, Northumberland County Coroner, James Kelley is seeking information about 58 year old Eric Simonson of Shamokin and previously had an address in Florida, and 61 year old James Weikel of Mount Carmel. If you know any information on the whereabouts of these individuals relatives, call Kelley at the county communications center at 570-988-4539.
STATE TROOPER CADET EXAM COMPLETE
The Pennsylvania State Police said 1,830 applicants were eligible for the state trooper exam after its most recent cadet selection cycle. This number shows an increase in applications nearly six months after Governor Shapiro waived the college credit requirement for applicants. Many eligible applicants, 41 percent, previously could not pursue careers as state troopers due to the college credit requirement. Applicants took the state trooper exam this week which is the next stage of the hiring process. The next cadet application cycle is scheduled to open next Monday February 12th.
MILLMONT WOMAN TAKES PLEA DEAL
A woman from Millmont accused of attacking a nurse at Evangelical Community Hospital in Lewisburg last spring, pleaded guilty this week to misdemeanor count of simple assault, avoiding a felony charge. According to the Daily Item, 41 year old Jennifer Lee Case also pleaded guilty to two unrelated misdemeanor counts of driving under the influence of a controlled substance. She was sentenced to 5 years’ probation, a month of house arrest and 50 hours of community service. She received credit for 252 days of time served. Case originally declined to receive help or enter treatment court, but has since asked for a second chance to seek entry into the program.
CAR ACCIDENT IN LEWISBURG INJURES TWO
A Selinsgrove man and his passenger suffered minor injuries in a car accident Monday in Lewisburg. According to State police, Ralph Weiser was the driver of a car that allegedly pulled in front of an SUV along Route 15 in Kelly Township in Union County. Ralph and Dorthy Weiser were taken to the hospital, the other driver had no injuries reported. Police said all parties were wearing their their seatbelts in the crash.
GEISINGER AWARDED PRESS GANEY RECOGNITION
Geisinger Medical Center Muncy’s Emergency Department has recently been recognized with the Press Ganey Guardian of Excellence Award®. This is the first time an emergency department at Geisinger has been awarded this accolade. The award recognizes excellence in patient experience and is presented to organizations reaching the 95th to 99th percentile for each reporting period during the award year. The annual performance achievement award honors top-performing health care organizations for delivering a culture of excellence and patient-centered care.
DRUM AND BUGLE SHOW COMING TO MILTON THIS SUMMER
The lineup for the 2024 Thunder on the Hill Alumni Drum and Bugle Corps Show is shaping up for an event this summer at the Milton Area High School’s Alumni Field. According to the Daily Item, there are five alumni bands who have committed to the show coming up July 20th 2024; including an inaugural showing for the Harlem Warriors mini corps of New York City. Thunder on the Hill President Mike Mertz said there is a competition element this year for Best Horn Line, Best Drum Line and Best Overall Corps, with prizes for each winning corps. Get tickets on Eventbrite and now at Breaking Bread Company, 281 Hepburn St., Milton.
SPORTS
PIAA D4 HS Basketball
Girls
Milton 53 Montoursville 37
Juniata Christian 29 CMVT 13
Boys
Williamsport 51 Danville 49
Northwest 61 Hughesville 45
Mansfield 65 Athens 46
Troy 65 Towanda 32
Mifflinburg 62 Line Mountain 44
HS Wrestling Team State Championships at the Giant Center in Hershey
Double A
Bishop McDevitt 41 Montoursville 25
Triple A
Cntrl Mountain 35 Boiling Springs 25
Trinity 54 Selinsgrove 14
Today’s matchups
Warrior Run squares off with Berks Catholic 9am
Central Mountain takes on Council Rock South in the quarterfinals at 2pm
NBA
Warriors 131 Pacers 109
Magic 127 Spurs 111
Cavaliers 118 Nets 95
Mavericks 122 Knicks 108
Bulls 118 Grizzlies 110
Timberwolves 129 Bucks 105
Suns 129 Jazz 115
Nuggets 114 Lakers 106
Pistons 128 Trail Blazers 122
NBA Tonight
Atlanta vs Phila 76’ers 7pm
Washington vs Celtics 7:30pm
NCAA Men’s Basketball Saturday
UConn vs Georgetown 12pm FS1
Alabama vs LSU 12pm ESPN
Creighton vs Xavier 12:30pm FOX
Boston College vs Duke 2pm ESPN
Illinois vs Michigan State 2pm CBS
North Carolina vs Miami 4pm ESPN
Gonzaga vs Kentucky 4pm CBS
Baylor vs Kansas 6pm ESPN
Indiana vs Purdue 8pm FOX
Tennessee vs Texas A&M 8pm ESPN
NHL
Bruins 4 Canucks 0
Panthers 4 Capitals 2
Flames 5 Devils 3
Flyers 4 Jets 1
Islanders 6 Lightning 2
Golden Knights 3 Coyotes 2
Hurricanes 5 Avalanche 2
NHL Tonight
Pittsburgh vs Minnesota 8pm
NY Rangers vs Chicago 8:30pm
BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS FEBRUARY 8, 2024
LOCK HAVEN MAN THREATENS TWO OTHERS WITH CAR
A Lock Haven man was arrested after threatening to hit two men with his vehicle on January 27th. According to North Central PA dot com, police say 36 year old Cody Allen Shadle, was on Liberty and East Bald Eagle streets and witnesses heard him threaten the victims before he started toward one man with his vehicle, forcing the man to run and jump a fence of a nearby yard. When police found Shadle nearby and attempted to detain him, he allegedly threatened officers and kicked the door of the cruiser, breaking it. He was charged with aggravated assault, terroristic threats and more and is at the Clinton County Prison on 100 thousand dollars monetary bail
MILL HALL MAN FOUND GUILTY OF FEBRUARY 2022 ASSAULT
A man from Mill Hall was found guilty of aggravated assault and possessing an instrument of crime, but the jury was hung on the charge of attempted homicide Tuesday. According to the Sun Gazette, 39 year old Nigel Lee was charged in a non-lethal shooting incident of 44 year old Adam Butler in February of 2022 in Porter Township. The DA called the incident an unprovoked attack, but the defense says Lee was provoked by Butler with racial slurs before the shooting. Lee could spend 9 to 20 years in prison.
MUNCY BOROUGH REHIRES PREVIOUS BOROUGH MANAGER
Muncy Borough Council voted 4-1 to rehire Charles Hall as part-time borough manager after he had been dismissed last October from the same position. According to the Sun Gazette, during the meeting this week, it was questioned why the position hadn’t been advertised, and why the description of the borough manager job had changed. The council stated that they were split on whether Hall is a beneficial employee or not, but he was approved for the position at 30.15 per hour. Hall said he looks forward to working with the borough on unfinished business.
FLAGS TO BE REPLACED ON SUNBURY BRIDGE TODAY
The American flags will be replaced on the Veterans Memorial Bridge in Sunbury today. According to PennDOT, their maintenance team will be assisting crews from the city of Sunbury on Route 61 in the right lane. Motorists can expect the work to be taking place between 9am and noon today, February 8th.
NORTHUMBERLAND COUNTY MAN CITED IN ROAD RAGE INCIDENT
Harrisburg area State police say a Northumberland County man was arrested for his involvement in a road rage incident February 2nd in Middle Paxton Township. According to North Central PA dot com, 51-year-old James Hall of Dalmatia, while traveling in the left lane, slowed to 15 miles per hour and brake-checked the driver behind him, Richard Schur of Dauphin, Pa. Shur was then hit by a third auto behind him and he was injured. Shur and Hall were given traffic citations for the incident. The third driver was not cited by state police.
POLICE SEEK SUSPECT IN BEST BUY THEFT
Police are looking for suspects who stole a cart full of items from a Snyder County Best Buy store. According to media outlets, the suspects entered the store in the Monroe Marketplace Monday evening about 6:45 pm. Police say they filled the cart with electronics and left the store in a blue SUV. If you have any information about the suspects or the incident, call state police.
CHANGES FOR SELINSGROVE ANNUAL CLEAN-UP
The Selinsgrove borough has announced some changes in their spring clean-up this year. According to the Daily item, with rising costs – almost doubling, the council has raised the fee charged for recycling and composting facilities this year from $4 to $8 per month. In addition, residents are being asked to limit their items to a maximum of two mattresses and two chairs per household. Hometown Disposal was the only company out of 22 to submit a bid this year. Spring clean up in Selinsgrove is set for April 15th and 16th.
K-9 FUNDRAISER IN MOUNT CARMEL SATURDAY
A fund raiser to benefit the Mount Carmel Borough Police Department’s K-9 program is Saturday at the Tornado Tavern at 16 W. Fifth St. According to the News Item, the event will offer drinks named for and T-shirts featuring Blek, the German Shepherd officer who works with Patrolman Evan Freiler in the Mount Carmel police department, and feature musician J.T. Thomas. Since the k-9 program’s inception in mid-2021, the program continues to be heavily supported by citizens and local businesses . Check Tornado Tavern on Facebook for details on donations or call 570-933-0134 for details.
SPORTS
PIAA D4 HS Basketball
Girls
Williamsport 62 Danville 36
Shamokin 43 Warrior Run 22
Williamson 70 Wyalusing 40
NP Mansfield 24 NP Liberty 21
N. Schuylkill 41 Bloomsburg 31
Boys
St John Neumann 68 Bucktail 45
Muncy 68 S. Williamsport 38
Shikellamy 62 Lewisburg 60
NCAA Men’s Basketball
Pitt 67 NC State 64
Bucknell 80 Navy 67
Xavier 56 Villanova 53
Tennessee 88 LSU 68
Duke 71 Notre Dame 53
Michigan 72 Wisconsin 68
Auburn 99 Alabama 81
NBA
Raptors 123 Hornets 117
Cavaliers 114 Wizards 106
Warriors 127 76ers 104
Celtics 125 Hawks 117
Heat 116 Spurs 104
Pelicans 117 Clippers 106
Pistons 133 Kings 120
NHL
Maple Leafs 5 Stars 4
Rangers 3 Lightning 1
Wild 2 Blackhawks 1
NHL Tonight
Canucks vs Bruins 7pm
Capitals vs Panthers 7pm
Flames vs Devils 7pm
Jets vs Flyers 7pm
Lightning vs Islanders 8pm ESPN
BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS FEBRUARY 6, 2024
WOMAN ARRESTED FOR HIDING A FUGITIVE IN LOCK HAVEN
A Lock Haven woman was arrested for hiding a fugitive after police were seeking him for strangulation, simple assault and other charges. According to North Central PA dot com, 37 year old Wendy Sue Frank told police she didn’t have the heart to turn in 35 year old Kurtis Michael Cunningham with whom she shares a child. A neighbor on South Fairview Street spotted Cunningham at the home on surveillance camera and called police after an arrest warrant was filed for him. Frank was charged with third-degree felony hindering an investigation and is free on 5 thousand dollars bail.
VICTIM OF FATAL ACCIDENT ON I-80 IDENTIFIED
It was a fatal accident in Columbia County that shut down I-80 East most of Sunday night. According to the Sun Gazette, 32 year old Nickolas Paddok was traveling westbound on I-80 near mile marker 236, when he crossed the center median into the eastbound lanes. The car struck the rear axles of a tractor trailer traveling westbound which caused it to overturn and catch fire. The truck driver was not seriously injured, but Paddock was taken to Geisinger Medical Center, where he was pronounced dead. A second accident happened around the same time on I-80 East in Scott Topwnship, but no one was injured in that wreck that included an overturned tractor trailer. The interstate reopened by 5am Monday morning.
CAREGIVER ARRESTED FOR STEALING FROM ACCOUNTS
A woman from Duboistown who was a caregiver for an elderly lady has been charged with felony exploitation of an older adult and identity theft, along with other misdemeanors. According to the Sun Gazette, 61 year old Helen Wettaufer allegedly wrote over three thousand dollars in bad checks from the bank account of the woman who hired her between June 29th and September 14th. The victim’s daughter notified police after the Fairfield Township bank reported suspicious activity in her mother’s accounts. Wettlauferr waived her preliminary hearing and posted 15 thousand dollars bail.
SPRING GOLF TOURNAMENT FOR CAMP CADET
The first of two golf tournaments to benefit Camp Cadet, a law enforcement camp hosted by PA State Troopers for kids ages 12-15, will be held on May 6th and registration is open now. According to the News Item, the first event is at Wynding Brook Golf Club, in Milton and they are looking for business sponsors and other donations for the event. Registration is 100 per person or 400 for a team of four. The deadline to register for the golf tournament is April 22. The deadline for campers to apply for Camp Cadet is April 1st. Call the Milton State Police Barracks for information – 570-524-2662.
WOMAN ARRESTED FOR KNIFE ATTACK
A woman from Loyalsock Township was arrested Sunday on charges of burglary, felony assault and trespassing after she pulled knife on her boyfriend who was at another tenant’s apartment near his Chester Street apartment when she expected to spend time with him. According to the Sun Gazette, Sharon Johnson caused a domestic disturbance by taking a knife from the other tenant’s kitchen drawer and tried to attack her boyfriend. Police were told Johnson then cut her own hand and left the scene. She was later found by police from a blood trail to her boyfriend’s home, and was taken into custody in lieu of 25 thousand dollars bail.
STOLEN IDS AND DEBIT CARDS FOUND DURING TRAFFIC STOP
A traffic stop of a man from Connecticut turned up stolen debit cards January 12th on I-80 in White Deer Township. According to North Central PA dot com, state police from Milton stopped 24 year old Kavon Thompson driving a Chevy Malibu with a South Carolina plate and expired registration for a violation, and after a consensual search, found the debit cards along with 14 fake ID’s all displaying the picture of the rear seat passenger 47 year old Bernadette Fran Blewitt of Minersville. Police say the other passenger, 25 year old Dicquane Rennau, was in possession of the fake IDs. All three were charged with 14 felony counts each of identity theft and possession of counterfeit access device, as well as drug charges for small amounts of controlled substances they were each carrying.
SIGNAL WORK TODAY AT CSVT RAMPWAY
There’s a traffic signal project today at the intersection of Ridge Road and the Route 147 northbound entrance ramp to the CSVT in Point Township. The contractor, will be changing the signal operation of the left turn phase from Ridge Road onto the Route 147 northbound entrance ramp allowing for a more efficient flow of the left turn traffic through the intersection .Watch for flaggers at the scene between 8am and 4pm weather permitting.
CYBER ATTACK OF PA COURT SYSTEM WEBSITES
A Cyber Attack of the PA Court System Sunday affected some state web services this week , but no court data has been compromised. According to WHTM, some areas of the Pennsylvania Courts’ website were shut down due to a denial-of-service cyber attack, and officials are working closely with law enforcement including the CISA, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, and the F.B.I. to restore files of PACFile, the use of online docket sheets, PAePay, and the Guardianship Tracking System. Pennsylvania Chief Justice Debra Todd said Pennsylvania courts are open and accessible to the public.
SPORTS
PIAA HS Basketball
Girls
Lewisburg 37 Muncy 22
Hughesville 61 Towanda 4
Line Mountain 46 South Williamsport 38
Shamokin 50 Southern Columbia 9
Cntrl Mountain 54 Selinsgrove 28
Sullivan Co. 28 Northwest 18
Boys
Loyalsock 48 Danville 47
Sullivan County 55 CMVT 21
NBA
Lakers 124 Hornets 118
Cavaliers 136 Kings 110
Mavericks 118 76ers 102
Clippers 149 Hawks 144
Warriors 109 Nets 98
Pelicans 138 Raptors 100
NBA Tonight
Dallas vs Brooklyn 7:30pm TNT
Memphis vs NY Knicks 7:30pm
Milwaukee vs Phoenix 10pm TNT
NHL
Islanders 3 Maple Leafs 2
Rangers 2 Avalanche 1
NHL Tonight
Flyers vs Panthers 7pm
Jets vs Penguins 7pm
Canadiens vs Capitals 7pm
Avalanche vs Devils 7:30pm ESPN/Hulu
NFL News
NFL commissioner Roger Goodell announced Monday, that the Philadelphia Eagles will be host for the NFL’s first regular-season game in Brazil on Friday, Sept. 6, the day after the NFL season kicks off on Thursday night. This will be the NFL’s first Friday game on opening weekend in more than 50 years.Super Bowl Sunday 2/11
San Francisco 49er’s vs KC Chiefs 6:30pm CBS Las Vegas, NV