BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS FEBRUARY 5, 2024

MAN CALLS 911 WHILE LEADING A HIGH SPEED CHASE

A man from Milton who fled from a traffic stop and called 911 while he was leading the high speed pursuit to claim he had done nothing wrong, was charged with felony fleeing and DUI. According to North Central PA dot com, Milton police say Neal Eugene Lilley Jr was driving a black sedan that did not have a registration plate and was stopped around 1:30am.  He left the scene at a high rate of speed through Northumberland and Union counties and State police took over the pursuit until they performed a PIT maneuver on New Columbia Road to stop Lilley.  He allegedly resisted arrest when troopers tried to take him into custody and refused a blood draw at Evangelical Community Hospital.  Bail was set at 75-hundred dollars and his case was waived for court.

STATE POLICE SEEK SUSPECT WHO BROKE INTO MILL HALL HOME

State police are looking for a suspect who broke into a trailer in Mill Hall on January 30th.  According to State Police in Lamar, an unknown person broke into a home on Eagle Valley Road.  They then accessed a work van and trailer which contained thousands of dollars in tools and equipment.  The suspect then  fled the scene in an unknown direction.  If you have any information about the suspect or the in incident, call State Police.

FUNDS AVAILABLE FOR CITY PROPERTY REHABILITATION

The City of Williamsport continues its fight against blight and striving to provide affordable living spaces for its residents. According to the Sun Gazette, two resolutions were approved by Williamsport City Council regarding the use of Pennsylvania Housing Affordability Rehabilitation Enhancement funds which is collected from natural gas impact fees. These funds are now available across the entire city to support rental rehabilitation of income-eligible properties. Once the funds are utilized within the next year, the plan is to apply for additional funding from Lycoming County in 2025.

SUMMER MEDICAL PROGRAM FOR TEENS

Interested teens ages 15 to 18 are invited to apply for Geisinger’s Junior volunteer program this summer.  According to the Daily Item, the program is for teens to learn about health care throughout the eight-week structured service program, along with weekly educational workshops.  The program takes place at several locations starting June 17 through Aug. 9 at Geisinger Medical Center, Geisinger Lewistown Hospital, Geisinger Wyoming Valley Medical Center and Geisinger Community Medical Center.  Students who volunteer can be eligible to earn the Presidential Service Award.  Sign up through February 29th at geisinger.org/about-geisinger/volunteer.

DANVILLE FIRE DESTROYS HOME

An early Saturday morning blaze left a family of three is homeless in the 400 block of West Mahoning Street in Danville. According  to the Daily Item, the fire started just after 4 am on Saturday. A man and his dog, who were inside the structure when the fire started, were able to leave without injuries. The other residents were not home. Fire crews from Danville, Northumberland, Elysburg and Bloomsburg remained on scene until 7:30 am.  Reports from the scene suggest the home was left uninhabitable. With no known causes to the fire, the state police fire marshal will be investigating on Monday.

PROBATION CHECK BRINGS ABOUT ARREST FOR JERSEY SHORE MAN

A Jersey Shore man is facing drug charges after police discovered him to have two pounds of marijuana while they carried out a search warrant at his home on December 11th.  According to the Lycoming Regional Police, probation officers came to the residence of Thomas D Way and smelled the odor of the drug, and upon filing for a search warrant, found the quantity along with three bags of hallucinogenic mushrooms and arrested him for possession with intent to deliver.  Way was jailed but later released on 50 thousand dollars bail.

CSVT PROJECT COULD INCLUDE BLASTING DURING DAYLIGHT HOURS

There are updates on construction activities on the Southern Section of the Central Susquehanna Valley Transportation (CSVT) project in Snyder County.  According to PennDOT Major earthwork is ongoing and the contractor, will be doing blasting operations as part of the excavation throughout the project.  Blasting can usually be expected between 10:00 AM and 2:00 PM Monday through Friday with usually only a single blast per day in a work area.  Earthwork operations including blasting are expected to be completed this summer with the project competed in 2025. .Structure work on the two-span bridge that will carry CSVT over Grangers Road has also begun For more information on the CSVT project, go to csvt.com.

NEW APP AND SITE FOR TROUT STOCKING SCHEDULE

The 2024 adult trout stocking schedule is available using the FishBoatPA mobile app and website (Fishandboat.com). According to the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission the trout stocking schedule is searchable by county, lists the waterways in alphabetical order, and indicates stocking dates, meeting locations for volunteers, and the species of trout that are planned to be stocked at each location.  In 2024, Pennsylvania’s statewide Opening Day of Trout Season will be held on Saturday, April 6.  A single, statewide Mentored Youth Trout Day will take place on Saturday, March 30.

SPORTS

NFL Pro Bowl
NFC 64               AFC 59

NBA
Magic 111           Pistons 99
Suns  140             Wizards  112
Celtics  131         Grizzlies  91
Pacers  115          Hornets  99
Clippers 103        Heat  95
Timberwolves  111  Rockets  90
Thunder  135       Raptors  127
Jazz 123               Bucks 108
Nuggets  112       Trail Blazers 103

NHL Tonight
New York Islanders vs Toronto  7pm
Colorado vs NY Rangers  7pm

NHL News
Unrestricted free agent forward Jesse Puljujarvi signed a contract with the Pittsburgh Penguins that spans through the 2024-25 season.  It’s an $800,000 deal for Puljujarvi, who signed a professional tryout with Pittsburgh on Dec. 10,  after undergoing double hip surgery in the offseason.

With Pittsburgh’s AHL affiliate, Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Puljujarv recorded nine points (four goals, five assists) and a plus-8 rating.

Men’s Soccer
FIFA announced the 2026 World Cup soccer final will be played at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey, on July 19.

The tournament also features six games in Philadelphia, including July 4th on America’s 250th birthday. 

BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS JANUARY 31, 2024

WILLIAMSPORT MAN FOUND GUILTY OF ONLY LESSER CHARGES

25 year old Unique Robinson of Williamsport who was on trial this week for an attack near 943 Memorial Avenue last January, was found guilty yesterday on some assault charges but not on the more serious accusation of attempted homicide.  According to the Sun Gazette, the second day of the trial for Robinson was under tight security and his defense attorney argued that the jury should convict only if the testimony of the victim in the crime was found credible, after court record said she changed her story of the circumstances several times.  The prosecution said Robinson also changed his story and by fleeing the scene, showed his alleged guilt.  Robinson has a sentencing hearing April 9th.

THREE TEENS CONCEALED CAR ACCIDENT

Three teens involved in an accident in Snyder County on January 15th fled the scene and did not report the crash to authorities.  According to police, the crash took place on Bucksey Road in Center Township when the operator of the vehicle drove off the right side of the roadway and overturned multiple times  They allegedly drove the vehicle to private property where they stored the crashed car.  Two of the teens were injured and taken to Evangelical Community Hospital for treatment, the passenger in the back seat was not injured.

SNYDER COUNTY OFFICIALS HOLD MMP WORKSHOP IN MARCH

Farmers, Livestock owners and show farmers are invited to an upcoming free workshop on March 12, 2024, at the Snyder Conservation District Office to learn how to write a customized Manure Management plan or MMPs.  According to the  Snyder County Conservation District MMPs are required by any person who raises or boards animals, produces or receives animal manure, regardless of animal type.   Register by emailing ([email protected]), by Friday, March 8.

RAISE THE REGION SIGN UP TIL FEBRUARY 16

The opportunity to help your favorite non-profit organization in your community is back again this year with Raise the Region arriving on March 13th and 14th.  The 24 hour fundraiser presented by a collaboration between First Community Foundation Partnership and Blaise Alexander Family Dealerships is set up to help multiple non-profit organizations that pre-register for the event by Friday, February 16th .  During Raise the Region 2023, three hundred and thirty three organizations received donations totaling 2.3 million dollars.  Any 501c3 organization can register if they serve one of seven participating counties including Columbia, Montour, Lycoming, Northumberland, Snyder, Tioga, or Union.  Go to Raise the region.org .

OUT OF CONTROL PATIENT CHARGED, RELEASED ON BAIL

A patient from Montgomery who was out of control and attacked a nurse at UPMC Williamsport has been charged with felony assault.  According to the Sun Gazette, police say Travis A. Bashista allegedly became combative on January 7th and trapped a nurse in a headlock who was trying to catch him, after he had pulled all the medical lines from his body and fell toward the floor.  A male nurse had to break the grip Bashista had around the woman, and several other security and police came to the room and assisted to restrain the man.  He allegedly assaulted one officer and tried to remove a service revolver from the holster of another officer.  Bashista was charged with four counts of assault and terroristic threats and released on 75 thousand dollars bail.

SUSPECT THREATENS WITNESS, CHARGED WITH INTIMIDATION

A Williamsport man who took to social media after a confidential informant testified against him in a drug case in District court, was charged for several more felonies including intimidation of a witness.  According to the Sun Gazette, 25 year old Eric Hakeem Locke implicated the informant and the detective who filed the charges in a video angrily using profanity and threatening language.  Locke was arrested, arraigned and incarcerated in lieu of 75 thousand dollars bail.

WESTERN PA RIVER NAMED PA RIVER OF THE YEAR

After a public vote, the Allegheny River in western Pennsylvania has been selected as the state’s 2024 River of the Year.  According to DCNR  Secretary Cindy Adams Dunn, they commend Three Rivers Waterkeeper for nominating the river to earn the honor.  The historic 325-mile Allegheny River starts as a stream in Potter County, crosses briefly through New York and then goes through six counties in western Pennsylvania. Three Rivers Waterkeeper will receive a $10,000 Leadership Grant to help fund a slate of year-long 2024 River of the Year activities.

ENCORE UPTOWN MUSIC COLLECTIVE PERFORMANCE FEBRUARY 10

A performance of the Uptown Music Collective’s It Came From the ’80s: Again, is being presented at Commonwealth University-Lock Haven Saturday, Feb. 10 at the Price Performance Center on the Lock Haven campus.  A portion of the proceeds will support the Clinton County Arts Council scholarships and programming throughout the year.  The event is sponsored by CU-Lock Haven, The Station Gallery and Schlesinger Communications.

SPORTS

PIAA Basketball
Girls
St John Neumann  53    Montgomery  36
Boys 
Loyalsock  82                Mount Carmel 42
Hughesville  44              Bloomsburg  39 
Mifflinburg  64              Montoursville  61
Central Mountain  67    Jersey Shore  40
Lewisburg 52                 Midd-West 41
Danville 41                              Central Columbia  37
Selinsgrove 70               Shamokin  54
Troy 70                          Mansfield 59
Wellsboro  40                Towanda  37

NBA
Hawks  138         Lakers  122
Celtics  129         Pacers  124
Knicks  118        Jazz  103
Raptors  118       Bulls 107
Warriors  119     76ers  107
NBA Tonight
Phoenix vs Brooklyn  8:30pm ABC
Milwaukee vs Portland  10pm ESPN
NHL
Blue Jackets  1     Blues  0
Sharks  2              Kraken  0
NHL Tonight
Senators vs Red Wings  7pm
Kings vs Predators  7:30pm TNT
Sharks vs Duck 10:30 pm

MLB News
John Angelos is set to sell the Baltimore Orioles to a group led by David Rubenstein for an approximate $1.725 billion.  Rubenstein is a Baltimore native.

Major League Baseball still must approve the sale. Owners are scheduled to meet next week in Orlando, Florida.  A sale must be approved in a vote of at least 75% by the 30 major league teams.

BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS JANUARY 20, 2024

TRIAL UNDERWAY IN WILLIAMSPORT FOR ATTEMPTED HOMICIDE

The 24 year old Williamsport man accused of attempted homicide after allegedly cutting a woman’s throat last January and sexually assaulting her is on trial this week in Lycoming County Court.  According to the Sun Gazette, the Lycoming County Assistant DA called Unique Terrell Robinson to the stand several times throughout the trial and called 9 witnesses.  Closing arguments are expected to happen today.  Since being jailed in January, a judge has denied Robinson bail.

MAN USES BOLT CUTTERS TO BREAK INTO GARAGE

A Danville man who witnesses say used bolt cutters to enter a garage is now facing  felony burglary charges. According to the Daily Item, Jason Rafter is accused by Danville Police for entering a garage and stealing items in October.  A caller reported a male and a female entering garages in the area of Koohers Court and Peters Court with the male seen using bolt cutters.  After an investigation, police say Rafter faces felony burglary, criminal conspiracy and criminal trespass, along with multiple misdemeanors and waived his a preliminary hearing last week, with further proceedings expected soon in Montour County Court.

NEW OWNER OF TRUCK PLAZA PLANNING ON ELECTRIC CHARGING

The new manager of the American Truck Plaza at the I-80 interchange in Turbot Township, Northumberland County is working to upgrade the facility, installing electric charging stations this spring thanks to National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (NEVI) funds, and providing a mixture of premium paid parking and over 200 re-opened spaces of free parking.  According to the Standard Journal, the plaza is also re-applying for the second round of grant funding for Tesla Chargers that are planned to be available.  NEVI funds are part of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law – part of $33.8 million in federal money distributed to 54 projects in 35 counties across the state.

PROM DRESS EVENT COMING TO SHAMOKIN IN MARCH

A Shamokin woman who started a group in Coal Township called “Girls Play Off-Road” that aims to bring a family and female friendly vibe to the sport, held a successful Prom-Dress giveaway in the social room of Oasis Community Recovery Club Saturday and is planning another one in March.  According to the Standard Journal, founder of  Girls Play Off-Road, Jaimee Stecker-Betts, has collected hundreds of donated prom dresses for this event as well as for Cinderella’s Closet at the YWCA in Williamsport.  Girls Play Off-Road will hold another prom dress event at Oasis at 210 E. Independence St in Shamokin between on Saturday, March 2nd. 

CAR THIEF SENTENCED TO PROBATION

A South Williamsport man who stole two cars in two separate incidents has been sentenced in Lycoming County Court.  According to the Sun Gazette 21 year old Brett Kimber Guthrie pleaded guilty to two counts of theft by unlawful taking, and Judge Ryan Tira gave him 3 years of probation.  Guthrie also has to attend self-help meetings the first year od his probationary period and must perform 100 hours of community service to the South Williamsport Lions Club since he stole a Chevrolet Equinox July 10th that was being used for loading aluminum cans at a Lions Club trailer collection site.

INMATE ATTEMPTS TO ESCAPE FROM UPMC WILLIAMSPORT

An inmate who was being treated at UPMC Williamsport December 29th, tried to escape custody of the two corrections officers who were guarding him.  According to the Sun Gazette, 44 year old Alex DeJesus was unshackled to use the restroom, but jumped from the bed and attempted to flee the hospital room, running down a hallway.  Officers deployed a taser twice to stop DeJesus, and they once again took him into custody.  He was jailed in lieu of 50 thousand dollars bail

JUDGE RULES IN FAVOR OF LYCO CONTROLLER AGAIN

The court has once again ruled in favor of Krista Rogers, Lycoming County Controller. According to the Sun Gazette, the court had released its first ruling in favor of the Lycoming County Controller a year ago. These rulings revolve in the ongoing dispute with the Lycoming County Commissioners and the interpretations of the Lycoming County code indicating what office has the ultimate responsibility for specific fiscal functions in county government.   In this current ruling, the state’s Commonwealth Court affirms the previous interpretation of visiting Potter County Senior Judge John B. Leete last January.

LYME DISEASE AWARENESS POSTER CONTEST

Students, scout troops and community youth programs are encouraged to take part in the PA department of health ‘s Annual 2024 Lyme Art Contest, by making a poster or short video focusing on preventing Lyme disease.  According to the PA Pressroom, the Shapiro administration invites first through 6th graders to participate in the contest with the theme “Protect. Check. Remove.”  The deadline for entries Mach 15th at 5pm  Pennsylvania has one of the highest annual counts of Lyme disease cases in the nation.  Finalists will be notified by mail and will be invited to an award ceremony at the State Capitol in May.  Get details at health.pa.gov/ticks. 

SPORTS

PIAA HS Basketball
Girls
Lewisburg  37              South Williamsport  17
Jersey Shore 56            Danville  25
Shamokin 47                Montoursville 32
Milton  48                    Mifflinburg  29
Boys 
Warrior Run  48          Hughesville 45
So. Columbia  61         Lewisburg  58
Shikellamy  72             Milton  47

NBA
Knicks 113         Hornets  92
Cavaliers 118     Clippers 108
Celtics  118         Pelicans 112
Nets  147             Jazz  114
Suns  118                     Heat 105
Rockets  135       Lakers  119
Wizards  118      Spurs 113
Trl Blzrs  130     76er’s   104
NBA Tonight
Indiana vs Boston  7:30pm TNT
76ers  vs Golden State 10pm TNTNHL
Senators  4          Predators  3
NHL Tonight
Columbus  @ St. Louis 8pm  NHL Net
Seattle  vs San Jose  10:30pm  ESPN+

BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS JANUARY 29, 2024

BENTON FARMER KILLED IN TRACTOR ACCIDENT

A 69 year old man from Benton was killed Sunday following a tractor roll-over on his farm at Red Rock Road.  According to North Central PA dot com, the Columbia County Deputy Coroner  was called to the scene where Luke Verbyla of Verbyla Farms, was pronounced dead after 12:30pm. Witnesses say the man was ejected from a tractor when he was loading it onto a trailer and it rolled.   Verbyla was pinned underneath the vehicle.  An autopsy will not be performed. The state police ruled Verbyla’s death accidental.

MAN STEALS BMW CRASHES OUT OF DEALER GLASS WINDOWS

A man from Turbotville has been arrested for stealing a BMW from a Ciocca Dealership Friday around 1pm.  According to the Sun Gazette, police named Brian Matthew Kilgus as the suspect who they pursued up to speeds of 110 miles per hour on I-80 east after he allegedly crashed a 2024 BMW M2 through the dealership’s glass window, striking multiple other vehicles as he fled the property.  Kilgus surrendered after he lost control and in the grass following his exit at the Route 54 ramp.  Police seized a semi-automatic weapon from him.  Kilgus was  arraigned on multiple charges and remanded to the Lycoming County Prison.

UNION COUNTY FLOODING

There is one area of flooding that remains from the weekend rain that brought about some minor flooding issues.  According to PennDOT, there is a lane restriction in Union County Creek Road between Millmont Road in Lewis Township and Shirk Road in Hartley Township, for flooding. The Department will continue to provide updates for any flooded roads in District 3. You can check road conditions 24/7 across PA at 511PA dot com.

DOG LICENSES AVAILABLE ONLINE BY FEBRUARY 1ST

Clinton County is planning on having an online payment system for dog licenses by February first.  According to Lock Haven Express, Thursday the board of Commissioners approved an agreement between the county and Fairfield Computer Services, LLC for the use of its system in the County Treasurer’s office.  The Pennsylvania Senate passed Bill 764 of 2023 last spring, requiring all counties to provide the online service to purchase licenses for dogs. Payments will be handled by Treasurer Michelle Kunes’ office, where the proper paperwork will then be forwarded to the state.

WARRANT OUT FOR ARMED BRADFORD COUNTY MAN

There is a warrant out for the arrest of Bradford County man who is missing and considered armed and dangerous after threatening his girlfriend.  According to WNEP, police say 26-year-old Sebastian Shults barricaded himself in a home at Battle Creek Road in Rome Township Wednesday night, but when police searched the home he was missing.  Shults was charged with terroristic threats and is believed to have a firearm on his person.  Call police if you see the suspect or have information. 

DALMATIA MAN CHARGED WITH FORGERY

A man from Dalmatia is facing forgery charges after he wrote numerous fraudulent checks amounting to more than 45 thousand dollars, stealing from a former landlord.  According to state police, the74 year old accuser rented her home in Lower Augusta Township to 35 year old Andrew John Souder and left the country between 2018 and 2022, until she sold him the home.   She later received notice from the bank about missing funds and a police investigation turned up Souder making multiple transactions with her checks and bank app without permission. Souder also faces felony counts of bad checks and theft by unlawful taking.

5 PENNSYLVANIANS BANNED FROM COMMONWEALTH CASINOS

Five people have been banned from casinos in Pennsylvania for leaving minors unattended while gaming in Pennsylvania.  According to  North Central PA dot com, the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board held a public meeting on January 24th and took action petitioning to  ban the offending individuals who are subject now to prosecution.  The move is meant to be an example to other adults of the board’s new awareness campaign message ‘Don’t Gamble with Kids”.

TREE REMOVAL PROJECT THIS WEEK

PennDOT will begin a tree removal project  Monday along Route 880 in Crawford Township, Clinton County, as part of a project to replace a bridge this spring over Rauchtown Creek.  The tree removal should take about a week during daylight hours with flaggers on the scene while work is being performed.  PennDOT says utility companies plan to relocate their lines between February and March before the contractor plans to begin demolishing the existing bridge.  PennDOT will place temporary traffic signals on each side of the bridge during this phase.  All work is weather permitting.

SPORTS

NFL
Chiefs 17  Ravens 10
49ers 34     Lions 31

NFL Super Bowl 58 February 11th
49ers vs Chiefs  from Las Vegas, NV  6:30pm CBS

NCAA Men’s Basketball
UConn  99          Xavier  56
Purdue  68          Rutgers  60
NCAA Men’s Basketball Tuesday
Illinois vs Ohio State 7pm Peacock
Oklahoma State vs Kansas  9pm ESPN

NBA
Pistons 120         Thunder 104
Pacers 116          Grizzlies  110
Hawks 126          Raptors  125
Magic  113          Suns  98
Bulls 104            Trail Blazers  96
NBA Tonight
Clippers vs Cavaliers 7pm
New Orleans vs Boston  7:30pm
Utah vs Brooklyn  7:30pm
76ers vs Portland 10pm NBA Tv
NHL
Blues  4               Kings  3
Kraken  4            Blue Jackets  2
NHL Tonight
Predators vs Senators 7pm NHL Net

BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS JANUARY 26, 2024

SMALL FIRE CAUSES EVACUATION AT SHIKELLAMY THURSDAY

Students at Shikellamy High School were evacuated at the end of the school day yesterday after a small fire started in the school’s welding shop.  According to the Daily Item, Superintendent Jason Bendle said the fire broke out just before 2:20 when a spark caught a filter in a vent and smoke began to travel through the system.  He said everyone acted quickly to remedy the situation and that several fire departments were on the scene to assist.  No sporting events were cancelled with the situation under control by 3:45pm.

CHILD ABUSE CHARGES FOR WILLIAMSPORT COUPLE

A Williamsport couple was arrested after a domestic incident involving their 1 year-old child led police to press charges after they saw a video of the altercation.  According to the Sun Gazette, the father, Robert Montgomery, recorded while he held the child, and his wife, Brittany Lee Montgomery, allegedly lunged toward him with a knife several times, threatening him.  They were each charged with reckless endangerment and endangering the welfare of a child.  They were arraigned in Lycoming County Court, Brittany Montgomery  remains jailed in lieu of $75,000 bail, Robert is free on 50 thousand dollars bail today.

COMMISSIONERS ASK FOR VOLUNTEERS FOR PUBLIC BOARDS

Vacancies on several authorities and boards in Lycoming County have led the Commissioners to invite members of the  public to consider volunteering for the positions.  According to the Sun Gazette, information about the county boards and how to apply is at the county website, lyco.org.  unpaid  positions are open  at the Lycoming County Authority, Industrial Development Authority, the Assessment Appeals Board, the Human Services Advisory Board, the Planning Commission and the Zoning Hearing Board.  Interested parties can apply at the next weekly commissioners meeting 10am on February 1st  at the Commissioners’ Board Room, first floor Executive Plaza, on Pine St.

PETA ASKS FOR RELIEF FOR PUNXSUTAWNEY PHIL

The People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals, or PETA, have sent a letter to the Punxsutawney Groundhog Club President calling for a change to the tradition of Groundhog Day.  According to North Central PA dot com,  the animal rights group released a statement in support of Punxsutawney Phil, saying as a live animal, he can’t tell the weather and should not be handled aggressively and thrust in front of a crowd for just a photo op. They suggest a giant gold coin be flipped instead, stating better odds than a groundhog prediction.  The Punxsutawney Groundhog Club disputes that Phil lives year round in an enclosure at the library.  Groundhog Day is Friday, February 2nd.

TOWANDA ON DELAY AFTER POTENTIAL THREAT

The principal of Towanda School District has announced that their school is on a two hour delay this morning after school custodial staff found a possible threat that is being investigated out of an abundance of caution.  Accordin got the school’s social media, Mr Peachey said the time is needed to add extra security at the school out of an abundance of caution.  He said that if any member of the school community has information about  a potential threat, to reach out to their principal.  Absences due to safety concerns will be excused today.

WATSONTOWN FIRE DISPLACES FAMILY

A fire in Watsontown displaced a family of five Thursday who lived at 484 8th Street Drive.  According to the Sun Gazette, William Buck and his family escaped the fire with only their coats after the smoke coming up from the first floor woke them up at about 1 am.  The State Police fire marshal will be leading an investigation to identify the cause of the blaze.  Firefighters from Warrior Run Area, Milton, White Deer Township, Mifflinburg, Montgomery and Washington Township responded to the fire and had it under control in about 30 minutes after they arrived on the scene.

COUPLE CHARGED WITH CHILD ABUSE

Two people in Shamokin have been charged with various counts of child abuse after their child was discovered with severe injuries.  According to media outlets, 23-year-old Marcus Akers and 20-year-old Emiyaah Blakely were charged when the child was checked at the hospital and discovered to have a broken collarbone and vertebrae .  Police say Blakely left the child in the care of Akers when she allegedly knew he wasn’t allowed to be alone with the child.  Akers is charged with four felony counts of assault and endangerment, Blakely faces one felony count of endangerment.  They both have a hearing next month.

LIBRARY TO OFFER ONLINE APPLICATION WORKSHOP

The Herr Memorial Library in Mifflinburg is hosting a program to help people seeking jobs who are unfamiliar with the process of online applications.  According to the library’s digital literacy coordinator, the class is called, “Applying for Jobs Online”, and will help participants find available jobs online by searching employers’ websites and using job search engines, as well as teach them how to fill out online job applications. The class is on Tuesday, February 6 from 4:00 pm to 5:30 pm. Register at UnionCountyLibraries.org.

SPORTS

PIAA HS Basketball

Girls
St John Neumann  47    Muncy  29
Boys
Loyalsock 74                 Warrior Run 53
NE Bradford  57                     Canton  50
NP Liberty  65               Cow. Valley  60
Mansfield 62                  Towanda 46
Wellsboro 49                 Athens 46
Troy 59                          Wyalusing  19

HS Wrestling
Central Mountain 43     Bald Eagle  25 
Wildcats Dalton Perry gets his  100th dual meet win 
Shikellamy 37               Selinsgrove 22
College Wrestling 
Lock Haven 33              George Mason 6

NBA

Pacers  134                    76ers 122
Jazz  123              Wizards  108
Timberwolves 96           Nets  94
Celtics  143          Heat  110
Knicks 122                    Nuggets 84
Kings 134             Warriors 133
Lakers 141                     Bulls 132
NBA Saturday
Miami Heat @ NY Knicks 3pm ABC
76ers  @ Denver  5:30pm ABC
Lakers vs Golden State 8:30pm ABC

NHL

Canadiens  4        Islanders 3
Bruins  3              Senators  2
Red Wings 3         Flyers 0
Hurricanes 3         Devils 2
NHL Tonight
Vegas  @ NY Rangers 7pm ESPN
Florida Panthers @ Pittsburgh Penguins 7pm
NFL News
*  Vic Fangio is set to become the new defensive coordinator of the Philadelphia Eagles, according to ESPN. He allegedly traveled to Philadelphia yesterday to sign his contract. Fangio left as defensive coordinator of the Miami Dolphins this week.
*  The Atlanta Falcons’ search for a new head coach appears over as the Falcons are set to hire Raheem Morris instead of Bill Belachick. Atlanta hired Morris, most recently the Los Angeles Rams’ defensive coordinator, 13 years after his last head coaching run with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
*  The Carolina Panthers are planning to hire Dave Canales as their next head coach

BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS JANUARY 25, 2024

TRIAL FOR PERSON OF INTEREST IN HOMICIDE CANCELED

As the community waits for information about a person of interest in the January 12th double homicide of Alisha Seese and Ronald Dailey Jr.in Williamsport, a contempt hearing for 57 year old Troy Bennett Bailey, who allegedly had a PFA filed against him by Seese,  was canceled yesterday.  According to the Sun Gazette, the sudden change in schedule brought about no comment from the Lycoming County District Attorney’s Office.  Baily has been in custody since the shootings of the two co-workers found fatally shot at the 1700 block of Terrace Place in the city.

MILL HALL FIRE DEPARTMENT DE-CERTIFICATION RESCINDED

After decertification last November, the decision against the Mill Hall Volunteer Company has been rescinded.  According to the Lock Haven Express, Mill Hall Borough Council voted unanimously to reinstate the company after some certification requirements were completed that had allegedly been missing from the original certification paperwork.  Council member and fire chief, Tony Walker , abstained from the vote. 

PA INVESTMENT IN MONTOURSVILLE BUSINESS

The Shapiro administration announced yesterday additional funds will be invested in Lycoming County as Ralph S. Alberts Co., a 60-year-old custom molding manufacturer, invests in their facility in Montoursville.  According to the Sun Gazette, the additional funding was considered by the Governor’s Action Team, providing incentives for business locating or expanding in PA.  A 72 thousand dollar funding proposal for a Pennsylvania First grant from the DCED, will help offset some of the company’s training, machinery and equipment costs as they work to create and retain jobs.  The Ralph S. Alberts Co plans to expand to the adjacent property on Choate Circle to increase the capacity of the company’s composite and fiberglass division. 

STATE TROOPER ACADEMY FOR PA RESIDENTS THIS SPRING

Any Northeast PA resident over 18 who is interested in exploring a law enforcement career has an opportunity to join the Troop N Law and Leadership academy this spring.  According to PA State Police, any student who has graduated from high school or obtained a GED , are encouraged to apply – email the Law and Leadership Academy Director, Master Trooper, David L. Peters, at [email protected].  Classes are April through August, and take place in the – Pa National Guard 109th Field Artillery Building in Wilkes Barre.

INMATE FROM RIKERS ISLAND BROUGHT TO NORRY FOR TRIAL

A man who was jailed at Riker’s Island in the Bronx was transported  to Northumberland County this week for his arraignment on charges for an incident last March in Shamokin.  According to the News Item, 27 year old Rasha Jamal Williams was in district court Tuesday for  multiple felonies, including robbery, kidnapping, aggravated assault theft, recklessly endangerment and more. Williams’ co-defendant in the robbery, 24 year old Brandon E. Colon, was previously arraigned in Northumberland County court.

MAN SETS FIRE TO BARN AFTER ARGUMENT

Police say an intoxicated man in an argument with his girlfriend allegedly set fire to a barn on her property in Jackson Township that killed animals and brought about a total loss of the structure on June 9th.  According to the Daily Item, a friend of 34 year old Jacob R. Ciccolini said when he came to the New Berlin home to pick him up, Ciccolini admitted to setting the fire .  State police at Selinsgrove say a pig and peacock were killed in the blaze.  Ciccolini was arraigned on two counts of felony arson; reckless burning; aggravated cruelty to animals, criminal mischief and causing catastrophe.  He was released on 25 thousand dollars unsecured bail.

JERSEY SHORE NATIVE TO APPEAR ON COOKING SHOW SUNDAY

A woman who grew up in Jersey Shore will be a contestant on the third season of the cooking show “Next Level Chef”, this weekend.  According to the Sun Gazette, Gabrielle Chappel who now lives in Brooklyn NY, is going to be one of 24 contestants on the upcoming Gordon Ramsey show.  Twenty nine year old Chappel who got started in a video series on Epicurious, and has a robust YouTube following, will compete for 250 thousand dollars on NEXT Level CHefafter the NFC Championships Sunday night.

LOCAL WRESTLERS RECOGNIZED IN COACHES RANKINGS

The NCAA has announced the first round of the 2023-24 Coaches’ Rankings and have included three members of the Lock Haven men’s Wrestling team.  According to the Sun Gazette, Anthony Noto, a returning All American wrestler, was ranked at number 8 at the 125 pound weight class, Gable Strickland number 29 at 133 pounds and Wyatt Henson named number 13 at 141 pounds.  Fourteen coaches in each weight class with two head coaches from each of the seven conferences determine the rankings.  The Bald Eagles are at home tonight vs. George Mason in the MAC competition at 7pm.

SPORTS

PIAA HS Basketball


Girls
Bloomsburg 56         Mount Carmel 47
Shamokin 49             Mifflinburg 18
Jersey Shore 50        Selinsgrove 25
Wellsboro 40                        NP-Liberty 32 (OT)
Lewisburg 41                        Shikellamy 36
Cntrl Columbia 54   Milton 27
Williamsport 70       Bellefonte 27
Hughesville 75         Southern Columbia 10
Loyalsock 52                        Warrior Run 18
Montoursville 63     Midd-West 14
Millersburg 50          Line Mountain 21
Cntrl Mountain 40   Danville 38





Boys
St. John Neumann 64           Benton 21
Athens 66                              Canton 38
Muncy 67                              Sullivan County 40
Northwest Area 67               Montgomery 32
South Williamsport 51        CMVT 35
Central Mountain 64           Milton 32
Tyrone 63                              Williamsport 60

NBA
Pistons 113                    Hornets 106
Timberwolves 118  Wizards  107
Grizzlies 105        Heat 96
Trail Blazers 137           Rockets 131
Bucks 126            Cavaliers 116
Suns  132             Mavericks 109
Thunder 140        Spurs  114
Warriors  134       Hawks 112

NBA Tonight
76’ers vs Indiana Pacers 7pm
Celtics vs Heat 7:30pm TNT

NHL
Maple Leafs 1      Jets 0
Panthers 6            Coyotes 2
Hurricanes 3         Bruins  2
Avalanche  6        Capitals 2
Blues 4                 Canucks 3
Kraken  6             Blackhawks 2
Sabres  5              Kings 3

NHL Tonight
Islanders vs Montreal  7pm
Boston vs Ottawa  7pm
Flyers vs Detroit 7pm
NJ vs Carolina 7:30pm

BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS JANUARY 24, 2024

SEVERAL CHARGES AGAINST MIRABITO DISMISSED

Burglary, theft, and trespassing charges filed against former Lycoming County Commissioner, Rick Mirabito were dismissed yesterday by District Judge Christian Frey.  According to the Sun Gazette, police say charges against Mirabito were filed Janaury 2nd, the day after he allegedly came to a Vine Avenue apartment and illegally evicted Joyleen McClements, taking her keys.  Lawyers for Mirabito successfully argued that the tenant was in the apartment the day she said she would be vacated from the premises, but asking for more time to move out, and that Mirabito had license and privilege to check on the unit on the day of the planned vacation of the premises.  Court records say McClements willfully gave up her apartment keys.  Judge Frey questioned whether the landlord tenant dispute belonged in criminal court at all, saying it was more of a contractual issue.

TWO MEN ARRESTED FOR ILLEGAL HUNTING, FIREARMS

Two Lycoming County men are facing charges after police stopped them for speeding in Montour County and found illegal firearms and illegally killed deer January 1st.  According to North Central PA dot com, State police said they observed suspected illegal activity as they pulled over 20 year old Raymond Edward Poust Jr.. During a search of the car, Troopers discovered several dead white-tail deer, the unlicensed guns and Poust’s passenger, 38 year old Joshua Mosteller possessed firearms which he was prohibited to carry.  Both men were charged in Danville with felony firearms charges, with Poust being charged with misdemeanor taking of big game, and jailed in lieu of 35 thousand unsecured.

NEW COUNSELING APP FOR SOUTH WILLIAMSPORT STUDENTS

The South Williamsport School District announced they are participating in the pilot roll out of a Mental Health Program that has been made available in Pennsylvania called Kooth. According to the Sun Gazette, Kooth is a digital mental health wellbeing application for students ages 11 to 18.  The app gives users tools and resources that help build resiliency skills and coping techniques, and provides chat based counseling for students over 14, students under 14 using the app need parental consent.  Funding for the Kooth program is possible through a grant from the Department of Human Services so that school districts, parents, and students can opt into the service at no cost.

GRANT FOR LOCAL LIBRARY PROGRAMS

A grant to provide an upgrade to the musical instrument collection at the Degenstein Community Library in Sunbury was awarded yesterday.  According to the Daily item, a thousand dollar grant from the Community Giving Foundation: Sunbury will allow the library to update the instruments used in early literacy programs for young children.  Information about the programs at the library at 40 S. Fifth St are available at degensteinlibrary dot org.

TWO FIRE CALLS BRINGS ABOUT CHARGES FOR TENANT

A woman from Mount Carmel who started fires twice with food in her oven and was combative with emergency personnel, is facing charges of making terroristic threats, disorderly conduct, and possession of drugs and drug paraphernalia.  According to the News Item, 57 year old Laurie Valdez burned a pizza in her oven, causing residents in her apartment complex to evacuate.  Firefighters who responded asked for help from police when Valedez fought with them.  Early the next morning, there was another call for the firefighters when Valdez used the cleaning cycle in the oven with the same pizza inside, starting another fire – at that second visit, police discovered her to be in possession of marijuana.  She was remanded to Northumberland County Jail in lieu of $50,000 bail.

EMPLOYEE NEVER RECONCILED COLLECTED FEES WITH BUSINESS

A Loyalsock Township business owner has reported a theft to authorities after an employee never settled catering fees he collected over the summer of 2023.  According to WNEP, 31 year old Brady Jenney of Dewart worked for Bruster’s Ice Cream on East Third Street and allegedly received over 15 thousand dollars of fees from May to August of 2023 through a payment app.  The owner told police he never got back any of those fees.  Jenney was charged with with theft by failure to make required disposition in Lycoming County Court. 

WILLIAMSPORT LIBRARY OFFERS BREAST FEEDING SUPPORT

Administrators at the James V Brown Library said at a recent Board of Trustees meeting, that they are planning to refurbish a room into a private space for breastfeeding or lactating mothers. According to the Sun Gazette, a former space in the Welch Wing of the library will feature a private and separate space for parents and children.  The space is expected to be cleaned and open by the end of the month.  Through the partnerships with Williamsport UPMC and the Lycoming Clinton Breastfeeding Coalition, the library is officially a breastfeeding, family-friendly location.

SELINSGROVE FOOTBALL COACH TO STEP DOWN

The head coach at Selinsgrove has announced he will be stepping down after 27 years of coaching.  According to the Daily Item, Derek Hicks of Selinsgrove will be able now to focus on his own family who are involved in collegiate sports, who said this was the right time to step down .  Hicks coached the Seals since 2015 with a record of 77-33-1, finishing this past season 13-1-1.

SPORTS

PIAA HS Basketball
Girls
South Williamsport  60           CMVT 14
Boys
Montoursville  58                    Central Columbia  55
Southern Columbia  52           Hughesville 48
Shikellamy  50               Shamokin  49
Danville 65                    Midd-West 42
Mifflinburg  61              Lewisburg  50
Mount Carmel  58         Bloomsburg 42

NBA
Nuggets 114       Pacers 109
Knicks  108        Nets  103
Pelicans 153       Jazz 124
Thunder 111       Trail Blazers 109
Clippers 127       Lakers 116
NBA Tonight
Phoenix @ Dallas  8:30pm ABC
NBA Thursday
76ers  vs Indiana 7pm
Celtic s vs Heat 7:30pm TNT

NHL
Senators 4            Canadiens  1
Lightning 6           Flyers  3
Golden Knights 3  Islanders 2
Wild  5                 Capitals 3  
Sharks 3               Rangers  2
NHL Tonight
Carolina vs Boston 7:30pm TNT
Chicago vs Seattle 10pm TNT
Buffalo vs Los Angeles  10:30pm

NFL Divisional Playoffs 
Saturday
AFC – Houston vs Baltimore 4:30pm ESPN/ABC
NFC  – Green Bay vs San Francisco 8:15  FOX
NFL Sunday
NFC – Tampa Bay vs Detroit  3pm  NBC
AFC – Kansas City  vs Buffalo  6:30pm  CBS

BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS JANUARY 18, 2024

TWO ARRESTED FOR ASSAULTING OFFICERS

Two women were taken into custody Monday for resisting arrest and being combative to officers when they were being questioned for suspected marijuana use and having a suspended license.  According to the Standard Journal, 40 year old Rosalie Salvat and 22 year old Precious Thompson of Lewisburg pulled into a convenience store about 10pm Monday night and police pulled behind them with lights on. The women began yelling at police and Savat was found to have a suspended license.  Police allegedly found drugs and paraphernalia in the car when they searched it.  Thompson escaped handcuffs in the cruiser and attempted to reacquire the evidence police had seized.  Court records say both were arrested and committed to Union County Jail.

MAN CRASHED INTO MOUNT CARMEL SHED

After crashing into a shed on West Girard Street near Mount Carmel, an unidentified 33 year old man was arrested for suspected DUI late Saturday night.  According to the News Item, Mount Carmel Township Police said the man was headed south on Route 61 before midnight when he failed to negotiate a turn and drove through a fence into the shed, the roof of which collapsed.  The crash also caused two vehicles on that West Girard Street property to crash into each other, causing front and rear end damage.

INCOME LIMITS HAVE BEEN RAISED FOR PA RENT REBATE PROGRAM

Income limits have been raised for the Property Tax/Rent Rebate (PRTT) program in Pennsylvania, allowing for a potential 175 thousand more PA residents to be eligible for the 1000 dollar rebates.  According to the Shapiro administration, income limits have been increased to $45k per year and made equal to both homeowners and renters, who are ages 65 and up, widows and widowers age 50 and up, or people with disabilities who are 18 and older.  Applicants can use myPATH (revenue.pa.gov), which gives instant confirmation when the claim is successfully filed. It’s free to apply and rebates are distributed July.

LOCAL WOMAN RECOGNIZED BY GIRL SCOUTS IN PA

A Montoursville graduate recently received the Gold Award with the Girls Scouts in the Heart of Pennsylvania.  According to North Central Pa dot com, Sarah Marie Kline earned the award for a community project that she helped spearhead at the James V Brown Library. Kline’s project is activity area inside the library for toddlers that supports families using the library facilities.  Kline currently attends Penn College where she majors in Baking and Pastry arts and applied management.

COUPLE STEALS TELEVISION AFTER PURCHASING SMALLER ONE

Montoursville police say a couple who purchased a television from the local Walmart with gift cards, switched it out for a larger television and were arrested for theft in December.  According to North Central PA dot com, 50 year old Sean Leronn Todd and 24 year old Miah Marie Waltz were seen on surveillance moving a 43 inch television into their car December 6th, after actually purchasing a smaller TV just prior to the incident. Todd who has been arrested over 20 times for other thefts and robberies, confessed to police during an interview about taking the TV on December 14th .  He was charged with 3rd degree felony theft and released on 75 hundred dollars unsecured bail.  Waltz was charged with misdemeanor theft.

FATAL ACCIDENT ON I-81

There was a fatal accident in Scott Township Lackawanna County yesterday that shut down the interstate for several hours.  According to WNEP, a minivan traveling on I-81 north lost control and hit the median at about 5:30pm at mile marker 199 in Waverly.  The passengers in the minivan and a family member in a second car all stopped along the interstate and got out of their cars.  Each of the five people were all hit on the side of the road by a tractor-trailer traveling north along the highway.  The Lackawanna County Coroner was on the scene, but did not name the victims publicly, it was only reported that the five people were from New York State.

HOMEOWNER SEEKING SUSPECT IN VANDALISM

A White Deer homeowner has called police after someone damaged their mailbox along Treibly Road.  According to State police at Milton the victim heard a loud engine pass outside his home several times January 13th.  The victim took a flashlight to investigate the scene and noticed his mailbox had been hit with an object like a baseball bat. The suspect noticed the homeowner as he was turning a third time and then fled the scene.  Call State police at Milton if you have information about the vandalism.

WINTERFEST AT HILLSCREEK STATE PARK THIS WEEKEND

It’s Winterfest at Hills Creek State Park in Tioga County this weekend.  According to WETM, free winter family-friendly activities will be available for the public to enjoy Saturday from 10 a.m. until 3 p.m with free hot dogs available starting at 11.  With the cold temperatures and the potential for enough snow, there will be hikes, tubing, sledding, snowboarding, snowshoeing, craft activities, educational opportunities and more, as well as a chance to just hang out in front of the fire.  A limited amount of equipment will be available to use.  Laurel Mountain K9 Search and Rescue will have dogs at the event.  Get information at the StepOutdoors Facebook page.

SPORTS

PIAA HS Basketball

Girls
Muncy 45                  Benton 29
Bloomsburg 42         Warrior Run 32
Wellsboro 35                        Canton 28
Loyalsock 58                        Southern Columbia 9
Jersey Shore 49        Shikellamy 38
Towanda 42              North Penn-Liberty 37
Hughesville 45         South Williamsport 19
Altoona 48                Williamsport 42
Boys
Loyalsock 76                        Southern Columbia 71
Shamokin 74             Milton 44
Warrior Run 84        Bloomsburg 43
Danville 54               Mifflinburg 42
Montoursville 53     Lewisburg 39
St. John Neu 70        CMVT 49
Mount Carmel 64     Hughesville 48
Muncy 59                  Benton 19
Selinsgrove 62          Central Mountain 51
Cntrl Columbia 58   Midd-West 35
Jersey Shore 61        Shikellamy 29
Millville 45               South Williamsport 40

NBA
Pelicans 132                 Hornets 112
Timberwolves 124      Pistons 117
Celtics 117                   Spurs 98
Cavaliers  135              Bucks 95
Lakers 127                    Mavericks 110
Trail Blazers 105         Nets  103
NBA Tonight
Washington vs NY Knicks  7:30pm
Chicago vs Toronto 7:30pm  TNT
Memphis vs Minnesota  10pm TNT

NHL
Red Wings 3       Panthers 2
Canadiens 3        Devils 2
NHL Tonight
Blackhawks vs Sabres 7pm postponed from last night
Minnesota vs Tampa Bay 7pm Hulu
Dallas vs Flyers 7pm
NY Rangers vs Vegas  10pm

BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS JANUARY 17, 2024

PENNDOT LIFTS RESTRICTIONS FROM INTERSTATES

Speed limits and right lane restrictions for commercial vehicles have been restored  for I-80 and I-180 today after the region was hit with up to 6 inches of snow that shut down many schools and slowed travel.  In addition, PennDOT has cleared the last of roads affected by trees and wires down as of last evening.  Route 235 between Troxelville Road in Adams Township, Snyder County and Creek Road in Hartley Township, Union County is back to normal with no lane restrictions.  Check road conditions acroiss PA 24/7 at 511PA dot com.

WOMAN STEALS DONATION MONEY JAR FROM WALMART

A woman from West Milton was arrested December 10th for stealing a jar of donation money meant for Geisinger Janet Weiss Children’s Hospital from the Lewisburg Walmart.  According to North Central PA dot com, police say 28 year old Tommie Schooley had been charged 2 other times for allegedly stealing from convenience stores in Turbotville and Selinsgrove in November.  Retail theft charges were filed in Northumberland County Court. 

NEW CHAIRMAN FOR LYCOMING COUNTY PRISON BOARD

The Lycoming County Prison Board has elected a new chairman during their first meeting of the year, with other individuals filling the open positions for 2024.  According to the Sun Gazette, Sheriff Mark Lusk is chairman, taking the position formerly held by former county Commissioner Tony Mussare.  County Commissioner Scott Metzger, vice-chairman and District Attorney Tom Marino, secretary were named, and join Lycoming County Commissioners Marc Sortman, Mark Mussina, in addition to Controller Krista Rogers and President Judge Nancy Butts on the board. 

LOCAL COACH PARTICIPATES ON “THE PRICE IS RIGHT”

A Lewisburg Area School District cross country coach was featured on the Price is Right game show as a contestant yesterday after he taped the show while visiting family in earlyDecember. According to North Central PA dot com,  Gary Stiner didn’t win the showcase prize, but represented Lewisburg by wearing a yellow Lewisburg Middle School XC Classic T-shirt.  Stiner said while bidding on products he got to play and win the Cliffhanger game, but came in under for the show’s Showcase Round  by about 85-hundred dollars – saying it was an experience of a lifetime

THREATS PHONED IN TO TWO FITNESS FACILITIES

Two fitness facilities in Sunbury were evacuated and closed Monday afternoon after police say employees there received threatening calls from an unknown suspect who may have also called in another threat in Shamokin Dam.  According to the Daily Item, police responded to a call that came from the Sunbury YMCA on North Fourth Street at about 4:30 Monday and they cleared the building during their investigation – but no details have been released. There were reports of a threat at Planet Fitness in the Orchard Hills shopping center, who posted on their website that they would be closed until Tuesday morning, and Shamokin Dam Police said they investigated a threat that happened near Baldwin Boulevard Monday at about 5:15pm.  If you have information about the threats, please call Northumberland County 911.

FUNDING AWARDED FOR NATURAL GAS LINES AT “THE DISTRICT”

Over 550 thousand dollars in state funding has been awarded to a project in Muncy Township, that has been earmarked to install natural gas lines to the redevelopment of the Lycoming County Mall area to be known as the District at Lycoming Valley.  According to an announcement by State Sen. Gene Yaw and State Rep. Joe Hamm yesterday, the funding comes through the Commonwealth Financing Authority’s (CFA) Pipeline Investment Program (PIPE).  The State Legislature approved the PIPE program a program that brings grants to construct the last few miles of natural gas business and residential distribution lines after it was crafted by Senator Yaw and included in the state’s 2016 Fiscal Code.

UNION COUNTY SHERIFF ACCEPTS SPECIAL COUNTY DETECTIVE ROLE

The Union County Commissioners approved a recommendation yesterday for a Union County Sheriff to take on the role of the District Attorney’s special County detective.  According to the Daily Item, new District Attorney Brian Kerstetter recommended the appointment of Christian J. Wachter as a special county detective at no increase to his salary, effective Jan. 16.  The new role will require Wachter to conduct criminal investigations at the jail, deliver subpoenas for the DA and apply for search warrants, he will also report to Kerstetter.

SNYDER COUNTY FIREFIGHTER RETIRES

Reliance Hose Company 1 Fire Chief, Dwayne “Butch” Hackenberg, has retired from his position after being a part of the Snyder County fire company since 1977 starting when he was 16.  According to the Daily Item, the tradition of a community fire chief serving in their positions over decades is not as common anymore with the last of the long term chiefs recently stepping down or passing away.  Reliance Hose Assistant chief Scott Reigle took over the position last week.  Hackenberg said that he’ll stay active with the fire company and answer emergency calls with other volunteers.

SPORTS

PIAA HS Boys Basketball Tonight @ 7:30pm
St John Neumann @ CMVT
Benton @ Muncy
So. Columbia @ Loyalsock
Millville @ S. Williamsport
Hughesville @ Mt Carmel
Jersey Shore @ Shikellamy
Montoursville @ Lewisburg
Danville @ Mifflinburg

NBA
76ers 126            Nuggets 121
Suns  119                     Kings 117
Clippers 128       Thunder 117
NBA Tonight
Spurs vs Celtics 7:30
Bucks vs Cavaliers 7:30pm ESPN
Rockets vs Knicks  7:30pm
Mavericks vs Lakers 8:30pm ABC
Nets vs Trail Blazers 10pm

NHL
Avalanche 7        Senators 4
Rangers 5  Kraken 2
Capitals  2           Ducks 0
Jets  4                  Islanders 2
NHL Tonight
Montreal @ New Jersey  7pm
Chicago vs Buffalo 7:30pm TNT

NFL Divisional Playoffs 
Saturday 1/20
AFC – Houston vs Baltimore 4:30pm ESPN/ABC
NFC  – Green Bay vs San Francisco 8:15  FOX
NFL Sunday 1/21
NFC – Tampa Bay vs Detroit  3pm  NBC
AFC – Kansas City  vs Buffalo  6:30pm  CBS

BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS JANUARY 16, 2024

SNOWY CONDITIONS AND ROAD RESTRICTIONS

The snow this morning is also requiring modifications for drivers today along the interstates and suggesting alternate routes for commercial drivers in Northumberland County today.  According to PennDOT, due to the storm, commercial trucks and large trucks should avoid Route 54 between Route 487 in Ralpho Township and Route 61 in Mount Carmel Township, and instead use Route 61 and Route 487.  The department is also temporarily reducing the speed limit on I-80 and I-180 to 45 miles per hour.  As always, avoid unnecessary travel today and always check 511pa dot com before you go to check road conditions across Pennsylvania. 

BASTRESS TOWNSHIP HOUSE FIRE MONDAY

A house fire in Bastress Township yesterday was a total loss after multiple fire companies responded to the blaze along Morgan Valley Road about 11:15am.  According to the Sun Gazette, the home was less than a mile from Route 654 and smoke from the home could be seen from as far as Rauchtown.  Firefighters closed parts of Morgan Valley Road as they shuttled water to the scene from a nearby pond, but the structure was already burning on three sides and flames were coming from the roof according to first responders.  There were no reports of injuries.  The owners of the property Mark and Doris Anderman were notified of the fire and arrived on the scene late Monday.

WOMAN CHARGED FOR CATALYTIC CONVERTER THEFTS

A man from Coal Township was arrested in 2022 for stealing catalytic converters so that he could gather money to bail his girlfriend out of jail, and now the girlfriend is facing conspiracy charges in the scheme.  According to North Central PA dot com, police investigated jailhouse recordings of phone calls between 39 year old Jarred Derck and his girlfriend 34 year old Sarah Ann Karpinski who was in jail for drug charges, and found evidence of them discussing the thefts and selling of the car parts that took place between May and June 2022.  Derckwas charged in July of 2022 for the thefts, a warrant was issued for Karpinski  January 2nd, 2024.

WINFIELD FARM HONORED AS CENTURY FARM

A Winfield farmer and his family’s land that has been in constant operation since 1797, have received the honor of being one of 2,300 Century and Bicentennial Farms in the Commonwealth. Bret and Mary Moyer were given the distinction last week during the 108th PA Farm Show in Harrrisburg and join 5 other farms recognized for their long-standing traditions, including two in  in Perry County.  The Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture started the Century Farm program in 1977.

WINTER WEATHER ADVISORY TODAY

A Winter weather advisory is in place today until noon, with Accuweather reporting that the light snow should stop by midmorning.  PennDOT has adjusted speeds on I-80 and I-180 to 45 miles per hour. You can check conditions on all Pennsylvnia roadways 24/7 at 511 PA dot com.

DOUBLE HOMICIDE INVESTIGATION CONTINUES

Police are still investigating the double homicide that occurred in Williamsport early Friday morning, and say the public is not in danger after a person of interest is in custody in the case.  According to the Sun Gazette, the two victims, 37 year old Alisha Seese and 37 year old Ronald Dailey Jr, who was a member of Independent Hose Company No. 1 were found deceased early Friday morning.  The two were employees of Security Alliance, a contractor utilized by Lycoming Engines for security services.  The Lycoming County DA, said they are still seeking information or video surveillance from some of the homes in the area.  If you know anything about the incident, no matter how insignificant, call Williamsport Bureau Police, 570-327-7560 ext. 7558.

SUMMER SNAP BENEFITS FOR ELIGIBLE CHILDREN

The Pennsylvania Departments of Human Services and Education have announced that  children in the Commonwealth who are income eligible will have meals provided during the summer months through the Summer Electronic Benefits Transfer (Summer-EBT) program.  According to North Central PA dot com, the application process for the Summer EBT program will come around in the next few months, but up to 900,000 children will be automatically issued benefits based on their eligibility for Free or Reduced-Priced meals.  .  Benefits will be a single issuance of 120 dollars for 3 months.  Get details about the program at FNS.USDA.gov.

WARMING CENTERS OPEN DURING CODE BLUE WEATHER

There are several options for people in Williamsport who may be facing a housing crisis or heating issues and need a shelter during the bitter cold temperatures we’re expecting over the next days.  According to North Central PA dot com, when a code blue warning is issued – temperatures expected to be below 20 for a period of time – First Church in Williamsport offers a warming center at 604 Market Street from 9 p.m. to 7:30 a.m. The entrance is indicated by blue lights in the evening outside , and the doors are locked at 10 p.m. nightly.  A meal is served each night at 9pm and a pick-up breakfast upon departure is provided at 7:30am.  Get the help you need locally by first calling 211.

SPORTS

PIAA HS Basketball
Boys
Loyalsock 73            Mifflinburg  47
Montoursville  43    Central Columbia 37
Milton 65                   Bucktail 52
NP  Mansfield 61     Sayre  38
So. Columbia  53      Marian Catholic  40
Girls  
Hughesville 53         Mount Carmel 40
Wellsboro  41           Sayre  18
Cntrl Columbia 57  Midd-West  14
Marion Catholic  61  Lourdes Regional 42

NFL Monday Night Wild Card Playoffs
Bills 31               Steelers 17
Buccaneers 32    Eagles 9
NFL Divisional Playoffs  
Saturday 1/20
AFC – Houston vs Baltimore 4:30pm ESPN/ABC Baltimore, MD
NFC  – Green Bay vs San Francisco 8:15  FOX Santa Clara, CA
NFL Sunday 1/21
NFC – Tampa Bay vs Detroit  3pm  NBC
AFC – Kansas City  vs Buffalo  6:30pm  CBS
NFL NEWS

Philadelphia Eagles center Jason Kelce has told teammates he intends to retire after 13 NFL seasons. Kelce’s decision, has not yet been made public. Kelce wavered in the past about retirement in recent seasons before ultimately deciding to return for one more run at the Super Bowl. Those dreams ended after Philadelphia’s 32-9 loss to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in the NFC wild-card game on Monday night.


NBA
76ers  124            Rockets  115
Magic 98             Knicks 94
Pistons  129         Wizards   117
Cavaliers  109     Bulls 91
Heat  96               Nets  95
Celtics 105          Raptors  96
Lakers 112           Thunder 105
NBA Tonight
Denver vs 76ers  7:30pm TNT
Sacramento vs Phoenix  9pm
Oklahoma City vs LA Clippers  10pm TNT
NHL
Bruins  3              Devils 0
Penguins  3          Kraken 0
Wild 5                  Islanders  0
Flyers 4                Blues 2
NHL Tonight
Kraken vs NY Rangers 7pm
Islanders vs Winnipeg 8pm
Flyers host Dallas Thursday @7pm

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