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

BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS JANUARY 15, 2024

HOMICIDE INVESTIGATION CONTINUES IN WILLIAMSPORT

In a press conference Saturday, Lycoming County District Attorney Tom Marino addressed the double homicide reported at 1700 block of Terrace Place in Williamsport early Friday.  According to the Sun Gazette, Marino said a person of interest in the fatal shooting of 37-year-old Alisha Seese and Ronald Dailey has been identified but not named publicly, and there is no danger at this time to the public.  Court records show that one person was arraigned in District court Friday for violating a PFA, but no information about the identity of that person is public at this time.  Police say the shooting victims were both employees of Lycoming Engines. If you have information about the shooting please call Williamsport police, or submit tips to Lycoming.crimewatchpa.com. 

MAN ARRESTED FOR THREATENING STORE EMPLOYEE

A Shamokin man is in custody after he threatened a local convenience store employee January 3rd.  According to North Central PA dot com, 33 year old Francis Effa allegedly became irate and caused a scene when he threatened the clerk and store manager when they asked him for identification to buy cigars at the 140 West Lincoln Street Turkey Hill.  When police arrived, Effa wouldn’t initially identify himself, and police discovered stolen cigars on his person as well.  He was charged with several misdemeanors, including terroristic threats, disorderly conduct, summary retail theft and more, with a preliminary hearing February 27th.

POWER LINES DOWN AFTER WEEKEND WINDS

PennDOT has reported some roads in Lycoming County are affected by downed trees or utility wires this morning, after windy conditions yesterday across Central Pennsylvania.  Watch for lane restrictions this morning in Penn Township on Beaver Lake Road between Poust Road and Bever Lake Road, and in Limestone Township on Route 44 between Little League Road and Middle Road.  In Northumberland County, an area of Route 405 between Ridge Road in Point Township and Route 45 in West Chillisquaque Township is reopened after closures there last night. Check road conditions 24/7 at 511PA dot com.

FARM SHOW BUTTER SCULPTURE TO BE RECYCLED

The famous butter sculpture at the 2024 farm show was dismantled after the close of the expo yesterday, to be turned into renewable energy.  According to KDKA, The 1,000-pound sculpture was designed and crafted by Jim Victor and Marie Pelton of Conshohocken, Pa., and reflected the theme of the 2024 Farm Show, “Connecting Our Communities”.  Sunday, crews scraped all the butter used for the sculpture into bags to be transported to a farm in Mifflinville to go through the recycling process.

LEWSIBURG MAN FACES SEVERAL FELONIES FOR SEXUAL ASSAULT

After a police investigation, a 26 year old man from Lewisburg is facing several felonies for his role in a sexual assault against two teenage girls that allegedly occurred between December of 2022 and July of 2023.  According to the Standard Journal Caleb Reedy was discovered to be communicating inappropriately online with minors after two girls reported to be victims of an indecent assault in Kelly Township, Union County.  The Pennsylvania State Police Milton Criminal Investigation Unit was involved in the investigation.  Reedy was taken to Union County Jail in lieu of 100 thousand dollars bail, with a preliminary hearing January 25th.

SHOOTING CASE HELD OVER FOR NORTHUMBERLAND COURT

A plea deal was not reached for a 33-year-old Shamokin resident, charged with attempted homicide. According to the Daily Item, Akeem Tyree Gregory appeared on video in front of Judge Hugh Jones Friday, who ruled the case to be held over for trial in Northumberland County Court. In February 2020, Gregory was accused by Shamokin City Police of allegedly barricading himself in a Mount Carmel home after he shot another man more than four times. A court date has not been released.

CLINTON COUNTY TOURISM GRANT APPLICATION PERIOD OPEN

An opportunity to apply for a Clinton County Tourism Grant is open until February 29th at 5pm and candidates are encouraged this year to use the online application process at clintoncounypa.gov on the county planning page.  According to the Lock Haven Express, the announcement was provided at Thursday’s Clinton County Commissioners’ meeting for the grant that is designated to help recipients promote overnight stays and entice visitors beyond a 50 mile radius to come explore Clinton County. If you have questions about the process, email   [email protected].

ACTIVITIES FOR MLK, JR WEEK IN WILLIAMSPORT

Events to commemorate the spirit of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. are coming up in Williamsport.  STEP AmeriCorps is partnering with other organizations in Williamsport in activities across the city all week, including the annual Peace Walk at noon today, which will step off from the corner of Third and Market streets.  Take advantage of service opportunities through Friday, or participate in the Poverty Simulation with the PA food bank and Penn College on Wednesday.  Get details about registration, volunteering opportunities and a full Dream Week schedule at stepcorps.org/mlk.

SPORTS

NFL Sunday
Packers 48          Cowboys 32
Lions 24              Rams 23
The Detroit Lions won their first home playoff since 1991;  Scoring 24-23  over the Los Angeles Rams at Ford Field yesterday. The Lions will play the winner of tonight’s matchup between the  Eagles and Buccaneers in the divisional round next weekend.


NFL Wild Card Playoffs Today
AFC  – Steelers vs  Bills 4:30pm CBS – Rescheduled from Saturday for extreme weather in western NY
NFC  – Eagles vs Buccaneers   8:15pm ABC/ESPN

NBA
Heat 104              Hornets 87
Nuggets 117         Pacers 109
Bucks 143            Kings 142
Timberwolves  109          Clippers  105
Bucks  143                     Kings  142
Suns 127              Trail Blazers 116
NBA Today
Houston vs 76ers  1pm NBA TV
Detroit vs Washington 3pm
Orlando vs Knicks 3pm
San Antonio vs Atlanta 3:30pm TNT
Golden State vs Memphis  6pm TNT
Miami vs  Brooklyn  7:30pm
Oklahoma City vs LA Lakers  10:30 NBATV

NHL
Rangers 2  Capitals 1
Red Wings 4       Maple Leafs 2
NHL Today
San Jose  vs Buffalo  12pm
New Jersey vs  Boston  1pm
Seattle vs Pittsburgh  1pm
NY Islanders vs Minnesota  5pm
Flyers vs St Louis  8pm

BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS JANUARY 12, 2024

BRADFORD COUNTY FIRE DEEMED TO BE ARSON            

A fatal fire in Bradford County this week has been ruled arson.  According to WNEP, state police fire marshall were on the scene of the fire Tyler Street in Athens that started around 9:30 p.m Wednesday night in which resident, 62 year old Donald Chandler passed away, his wife, who was home at the time, was not hurt. There were two minor injuries suffered by firefighters, but no other injuries were reported.

FATHER CHARGED FOR THREATS

Buffalo Valley Regional police responded to a domestic incident December 3rd in which the father of two children threatened to kill the children’s mother and her boyfriend as he was about to arrive at her home in East Buffalo Township to drop off the children. According to North Central PA dot com, 35 year old Kyle Matthew Bryan arrived at the home with police on the scene and admitted sending the messages, but denied wanting to kill the his estranged wife.  He was taken into custody in lieu of five thousand dollars unsecured bail, with a preliminary hearing January 18th .

PHILLY BASED CONVENIENCE STORE POSSIBLE IN 2025

As the Delaware County convenience store chain, WaWa, plans to double the number of their stores in Pennsylvania, plans for a Williamsport store in mid-2024 may be pushed back to early 2025 to coordinate with other openings at “Maynard Commons” on Maynard Street.  Two other regionally close stores are planned;  one in Lewisburg in Kelly Township, and one in Centre County.  The property at the former location of the Williamsport Foundry may see a yet to be announced fast-food restaurant, but  according to North Central PA dot com, the new store , owned by FamVest is estimated to have a $31 million economic impact in the Williamsport area with the creation of close to 100 permanent jobs .

UPTOWN MUSIC COLLECTIVE PRESENTS PEOPLE’S CHOICE SHOW

The Uptown Music Collective, Williamsport’s non-profit music school, will present “The Decade of Grunge” at the Community Arts Center in Williamsport Jaunary 27th at 7:30pm.  The show featuring iconic sounds of the 1990s was the winning choice of over 600 community members who participated in their 8th annual online People’s Choice voting event.  The show presented in partnership with UPMC North Central Pa and UPMC Health Plan will highlight the talents of the school’s Special Performance Group 1, comprised of students aged 14 to 19, who auditioned, then plan, direct, design, rehearse, and perform the show. Tickets are 20 dollars and can be purchased online at caclive.com.  Details at uptownmusic.org/grunge.

SHAMOKIN SHOOTING, NO ONE INJURED

There was a shooting Wednesday near North Rock Street in Shamokin and a woman is in custody.  According to Shamokin police, 27-year-old Nashay Destouet shot at a man during an argument Wednesday at about 7am, but no injuries were reported.  Destouet was charged with discharging a firearm in city limits and reckless endangerment and aggravated assault after she arrived for an interview with police in the afternoon.  She will have a future arraignment and was remitted to Northumberland County Prison.

WOMAN CAUSES ACCIDENT AFTER CHASING BOYFRIEND IN CAR

A woman from Sunbury who called police to report an incident while she was driving at a high rate of speed chasing her boyfriend, caused an accident on December 16th.  According to State police at Stonington, when 27 year old April Hayes communicated with troopers, they told her to stop the chase and let them  handle it, but she refused.  Shortly after, Hayes allegedly caused a crash that involved two other drivers along Route 61 in Shamokin Township.  Hayes was charged with reckless endangerment.

A woman from Sunbury who called police to report an incident while she was driving at a high rate of speed chasing her boyfriend, caused an accident on December 16th.  According to State police at Stonington, when 27 year old April Hayes communicated with troopers, they told her to stop the chase and let them  handle it, but she refused.  Shortly after, Hayes allegedly caused a crash that involved two other drivers along Route 61 in Shamokin Township.  Hayes was charged with reckless endangerment.

SENATOR YAW SEEKS RE-ELECTION IN 2024

State Senator Gen Yaw, who works on behalf of residents of Bradford, Lycoming, Sullivan, Tioga and Union counties in the 23rd District, has announced his intention to seek re-election this year. Senator Yaw supports small business and received the National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB) Award for his supportive voting record.  Yaw was also named “Legislator of the Year” by the Pennsylvania Office of Rural Health for his work to address the heroin epidemic plaguing the Commonwealth.  Senator Yaw works to preserve the natural gas Impact Fee, which brings tens of millions of dollars to our counties and municipalities annually.

LAST WEEKEND FOR THE FARM SHOW

It’s the last two days for the 108th PA Farm Show, the nation’s largest indoor agricultural expo.  Today in Harrisburg, the Century Farm Award Presentation is planned for 10am this morning, and the Lumberjack competition is at 3:30pm.  The professional Rodeo Cowboys Association Circuit Finals Rodeo is tonight and tomorrow night in the New Holland arena.  Admission to the Farm Show is free, Parking is 15 dollars.  Get details at farmshow.pa.gov.

SPORTS

PIAA HS
Girls Basketball
Williamson 46      Athens 16
NP Mansfield  39           Canton  35

HS Wrestling
Selinsgrove 66  Jersey Shore 6

NBA
Cavaliers 111     Nets 102
Bucks 135           Celtics  102
Thunder 139       Trail Blazers 77
Mavericks 128  Knicks 124
Suns 127             Lakers 109
NBA Tonight
Kings vs 76ers 7:30pm ESPN

NHL
Lightining 4        Devils  3
Canucks  4          Penguins 3
Kraken 4             Capitals 1
NY Islanders 4  Maple Leafs 3
Blues 5                NY Rangers 2
Gldn Knights 2  Bruins 1
NHL Tonight
Flyers vs Minnesota  8pm ESPN+NFL Saturday
Cleveland @ Houston 4:30pm NBC
Miami @ Kansas City 8pm Peacock
NFL Sunday
Pittsburgh @ Buffalo 1pm CBS
NFL Monday
Eagles @ Tampa Bay 8:15pm ABC/ESPN

BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS JANUARY 9, 2024

AIR SERVICE TO WASHINGTON DC FROM WILLIAMSPORT

There will be passenger air service from Williamsport to Washington DC starting this spring through Southern Airways Express.  According to the Sun Gazette, at a press conference yesterday at the Montoursville terminal, 10 nine-passenger flights per week were announced that will begin May 23rd were announced by airport authorities and other business leaders and legislators in attendance, including Senator Bob Casey, who advocated for the airport and helped secure much of the funding, Senator Gene Yaw, US Representative Dan Meuser,  Lycoming County Commissioners Scott Metzger and Mark Mussina, and others.

FLOOD WATCH THROUGH TOMORROW

We’re still within a flood watch through tomorrow afternoon for Central Pennsylvania that will also include windy conditions through Wednesday according to Accuweather.  We’re seeing the potential for the icy and wintry mix conditions this morning, but then with warmer temperatures, we will still be faced with extra thawing and rain with the wind gusts expected to be 40 to 60 miles per hour.  Homeowners are reminded to secure trashcans and outdoor furniture.

MILL HALL ELECTRICAL FIRE DEEMED ACCIDENTAL

Authorities say a Mill Hall house fire on December 12th was started in an overheated kitchen outlet, causing extensive interior damage to the home at 119 Dewey Street.  According to the Lock Haven Express, Mill Hall police submitted a report about the morning fire that spread from the kitchen to the living room and then to a stairwell that led to the second floor which caused more heat and smoke damage.  First responders attempted to rescue the pets in the home, but were unsuccessful.  The homeowners were uninsured.

VOTE ON STUDENTS’ PAINT THE PLOW ENTRIES

Schools in Clinton , Centre, Potter Counties and beyond participated in in the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation’s District 2’s annual Paint the Plow Program.  According to PennDOT, they are inviting the public to vote on the work of art students from Bellefonte, Coudersport, Bucktail, Central Mountain, and Sugar Valley Rural Charter Schools, who painted plow blades based on the statewide theme “Seat belts are always in season”.  Go to penndot.pa.gov/PaintthePlow to vote through an online survey in January.

GUILTY PLEA IN 2001 COLD CASE HOMICIDE

A New Jersey man who has been in prison just shy of two years awaiting trial for a two-decade-old homicide charge from Columbia County, pleaded guilty last Friday to involuntary manslaughter of 17-year-old Shamar Washington of Williamsport.  According to the Sun Gazette, 46 year old Brian Gregory Quinn of Woodbury, NJ was implicated in March of 2022 after a police investigation into hunters finding Washington’s shot and stabbed body with no ID in Hemlock Township in January of 2001.  Sentencing for Quinn was deferred until this Wednesday so that Washington’s family members can attend the hearing.

MERIT BADGE COLLEGE COMING TO PENN TECH IN FEBRUARY

Penn College announced it will offer faculty expertise and its high-tech instructional facilities for an upcoming regional Boy Scouts of America Merit Badge College, scheduled for Saturday, Feb. 17th.  According to the school , the council of scouts in Clinton, Lycoming, Northumberland, Snyder and Union counties will bring in scouts who will select from 20 merit badges to complete 3 during the event in partnership with the Susquehanna Council, Boy Scouts of America.  To register for the 50 dollar event, visit bsa.pct.edu before February 5th.

GREENWAY MINI-GRANTS AVAILABLE

There will be a second round of Susquehanna Greenway Partnership Mini-Grants awarded, with the Winter 2024 round of applications startingtoday.  According to the SGP, funds were still available after two recipients for funds in 2023 were given to the Lewisburg Neighborhood Corporation who seeks to convert the Lewisburg Railroad Bridge as part of the Buffalo Valley Rail Trail system, and for the Montour Area Recreation Commission (MARC) for  an interpretive sign at the Beaver Place Trailhead of the Robbins (Hess Loop) Trail in Danville.  Applicants can request up to a 10 thousand dollar match for their proposal that is for Education & Outreach, Wayfinding & Signage, and/or Trail or Access Site Improvement. Get details at susquehannagreenway.org/mini-grant-program.

SPORTS

PIAA HS Basketball
Boys
Loyalsock 83        Montoursville 47
Williamsport 60  Selinsgrove  48
Bloomsburg  53  Lourdes Regional 39 
Bucktail  46          Austin  34
Girls 
Shamokin  38       Milton  36
Northwest  58      Central Columbia  27
Bucktail  55                   Austin 50

NCAA National Championship
Michigan 34       Washington  13
No. 1 Michigan beat No. 2 Washington 34-13  in front of 72,808 fans inside NRG Stadium , for their first national championship since 1997, when they were tied with Nebraska.

NBA
Bulls 119            Hornets 112
Pacers 133          Celtics 131
Thunder  136      Wizards  128
Heat  120            Rockets 113
Jazz 132              Bucks 116
Clippers 138       Suns  111
NBA Wednesday
76ers vs Atlanta 7:30pmNHL
Canucks 6           Rangers 3
Penguins 4          Flyers 1
Stars 4                 Wild 0
Avalanche 4        Bruins 3
NHL Tonight
Canucks vs Islanders 7:30pm

BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS JANUARY 8, 2024

FLOOD WARNING FOR NORTH CENTRAL PA

After the snowy weekend and the mix of rain and snow expected, the region may see increased melting with a flood watch announced for tomorrow through Wednesday.  According to the National Weather Service, much of Central Pennsylvania will be affected by the runoff and those who live in flood prone areas should be prepared, should flooding conditions develop. 1-3 more inches of precipitation is expected this week with highs Tuesday up to 47.

UNITYVILLE FIRE DISPLACES THREE

A fire in Unityville Saturday displaced a family of three who escaped the blaze along Butternut Lane.  According to the Sun Gazette, firefighters shuttled water from two ponds in the area to the home after 7:30pm, while the fire burned uncontrolled for a few hours.  Fire officials say the blaze was a total loss and wasn’t suspicious but the cause remains undetermined at this time.  Firefighters kept the flames from igniting a nearby 3-car garage, and there were reports of a flare up early Sunday, and the Red Cross is assisting the family who reportedly has fire insurance.

GUN FOUND IN UNION COUNTY COURT HOUSE

Police are looking for information surrounding a gun that was found in the Union County Courthouse on December 29th.  According to State Police at Milton, the Marlin 336 rifle in a brown and tan leather case was discovered inside the courthouse building in Lewisburg before noon.  There was no other information released about the firearm, but if you know anything, please call Milton State Police and reference incident number PA2023-1687119.

BRIDGE COULD BE NAMED FOR A LOCAL VETERAN

Local officials have combined their efforts to name the green bridge between Loyalsock Township and Montoursville after a local veteran. Born near Mill Hall in 1922 Eleanor Pauline Hannah was a 1940 Montoursville high school graduate, she went on to join the Women’s Army Corps two years later, before being killed aboard the Gremlin Special – the plane that crashed during a sightseeing flight over the Shangri-La valley in 1945.  Representative John Hamm is working to get a bill introduced on behalf of Eleanor Hanna so the bridge between Loyalsock and Montoursville may be named after her. 

TWO DEATHS REPORTED IN NORTHUMBERLAND COUNTY

Two deaths were reported this weekend in Lower Mahanoy Township.  According to the Daily Item, State police report Brandi Hauck and Tracey Adams were found deceased in southern Northumberland County when police were called to an address off of Malta Road about 5pm Sunday.  Police report there is no danger to the public and an investigation is ongoing.  Police say they will release more information about the victims and the circumstances when it becomes available. 

MAN EXTRADICTED FROM DELAWARE FOR FORGERY CHARGES

A man from Virginia was extradited back to to Lycoming County yesterday from Delaware for his role in felony charges of theft by deception and forgery after he wrote five fraudulent checks at a C&N Bank in 2022.  According to the Sun Gazette, 55 year old Timothy Wayne Berry, who admitted to police that he is a heroin addict, has 18 previous felony convictions for the same kind of check and bank fraud crimes and is wanted in North Carolina and Delaware for similar forgeries.  District Judge William Solomon remanded Berry to Lycoming County Prison in lieu of 1 million dollars bail.

YMCA WILL NOT APPEAL CLOSURE DECISION

The River Valley Regional YMCA in Williamsport is not appealing the decision by the PA State Department of Human Services which, last fall revoked its license to operate a child care center at the Williamsport branch. According to the Sun Gazette, a meeting between the facility operator, and the state department of human services is planned this week to determine its next course of action.  The child care center was closed and its license revoked in September and it cannot be reinstated. However YMCA administrators say the work may start again soon to instead obtain a brand new license for the facility.

ZOOM CLASS FOR FAMILIES OF RECOVERING ADDICTS

Residents of Snyder and Union Counties who are affected by a person’s substance use disorder or addiction are invited to join a free Zoom class, offered by a BALM Family Recovery Life Coach beginning January 16th.  The free eight-week weekly online course is based on a method that helps families shift away from anxious reactivity to calm responsiveness, as research shows they are also in need of recovery when a family member is recovering from drug addiction. Find out more about enrollment by emailing
“s karchner 9” at gmail.com.

SPORTS

NFL Sunday
Bills 21               Dolphins 14
Cowboys 38       Commanders 10
Chiefs  13           Chargers 12
Giants 27            Eagles 10
Bengals 31          Browns 14
Jets  17                Patriots  3
NFL Saturday 1/13
Cleveland vs Houston  4:30pm NBC
Miami vs Kansa City  8pm  Peacock
NFL Sunday 1/14
Pittsburgh vs Buffalo  1pm  CBS
Green Bay vs Dallas 4:30pm
LA Rams vs Detroit  8pm NBC
NFL Monday 1/15 
Eagles vs Tampa Bay  8:15pm ABC/ESPN


NBA
Cavaliers 117               Spurs  115
Trail Blazers 134         Nets  127 
Magic 117                    Hawks 110 
Raptors  133                 Warriors  118
Lakers 106                    Clippers 103

NBA Tonight
Jazz vs Bucks 8pm
Suns vs  Clippers 10:30pm
NBA Wednesday
76ers vs Atlanta 7:30pm

NHL
Capitals 4            Kings  3
Blackhawk  4      Flames 3
Jets 6                   Coyotes  2
Red Wings 3       Ducks  2

NCAA Football
National Championship Monday, January 8
Washington Huskies vs Michigan Wolverines  7:30pm ESPN  Houston, TX

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