BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS DECEMBER 20, 2023

HUGHESVILLE MAN ARRESTED FOR ASSAULT

A Hughesville man has been charged with illegal possession of a firearm, carrying a firearm without a concealed carry permit, simple assault, and other drug charges According to Norht Central PA dot com, Dustin Michael Zink, 33, allegedly loaded and pointed a Kimber Custom II handgun in the sky after getting into an argument with a man and a woman while at a Race street home on December 2nd. Zink left the area before police arrived and was found in a dollar general parking lot in Wolf Township. Zink has previously been convicted of felony criminal trespass in 2015 and was not allowed to own a gun.

GUILTY PLEA BRINGS CONCURRENT SENTENCE

A Williamsport man will serve 9 to 18 years in prison after a jury found him guilty of aggravated assault from an incident in October 2022.  The victim said she was strangled and assaulted by 49 year old Rodney Poust before she was able to escape nd call police.   According to the Sun Gazette, Judge Ryan Tira said due to the drawn out nature of the crimes Poust will serve the sentence concurrently.  He was remanded to Lycoming County Prison.

FLOOD WARNINGS EXPIRE TODAY

The flood warning brought about by heavy rains from the weekend expired in Danville and Riverside this morning at 4am.  According to the National Weather Service, the Susquehanna River crested there at just about 20 feet yesterday afternoon.  The crest of 20.8 feet, well below flood stage in Sunbury, is also passed.  In Clinton County, they are working to clear part of Route 11 between Creek and Southwick Roads which had to be closed for flood waters. .PennDOT says In Northumberland County, the flood prone section of Shakespeare Road is closed, and several roads in Sullivan County are still closed. Route 61/Hamilton Underpass is open.

NEW STATE POLICE HEADQUARTERS GROUNDBREAKING

The groundbreaking ceremony took place Tuesday for the new Pennsylvania State Police Academy in Hershey yesterday, with design plans unveiled for the world-class training facility.  According to the Daily Item, the current academy facility opened in the 1960s and will go under a with state-of-the-art upgrade with facilities totaling 366,000 square feet at the 146-acre site.  Facilities will include a new headquarters for the Bureau of Emergency and Special Operations, horse stables for the Mounted Unit, a central supply warehouse , a vehicle garage, and more.  Architectural illustrations are available at psp.pa.gov.

MAN WHO JUMPED FROM BRIDGE RESCUED NEAR SUNBURY

Volunteers from several local fire and rescue crews in Northumberland County as well as officers from the state Game Commission worked quickly to rescue a 26 year old man who had allegedly jumped from the Edison Bridge between Sunbury and Packer Island Saturday around 10am.  According to state police, the man was reached by swift water rescue officers while he was in the water, and was taken to a medical facility with unknown injuries.  The incident is under investigation and no other details were released.

YAW, FLICK, COLLABORATE FOR WATER SYSTEM PROTECTION GRANT

Over 3 million dollars in state funding has been awarded to four projects in Lycoming and Union Counties, thanks to local lawmakers.  Senator Gene Yaw and Representative Jamie Flick collaborated to bring about over 3.5 million dollars through the Commonwealth Financing Authority.  The largest awards went to the Williamsport Sanitary Authority, which received $3,000,000 in H2O funding for its Sanitary Sewer Bloomingrove Road Environmental Protection Project.  The grants are funded from multiple sources with the largest being federal American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) money appropriated for recreation and conservation.

CONTRACT FOR NEW VOTER SYSTEM IN PAN CANCELLED

The contract that had been signed in 2020 for an upgrade to Pennsylvania’s system for managing voter rolls has been cancelled.  According to Penn Live, the Department of State already decided to keep the older system, Statewide Uniform Registry of Electors, known as SURE, in place for 2024.  Administrators say the SURE system that was brought online in 2003 can be unstable and unpredictable.  In one instance, Mercer County election officials said the SURE System went down for 24 hours before the 2022 election as they printed poll books.  According to the Shapiro Administration, the company has agreed to return all money paid to it, a total of $720,400.  The SURE system is not connected to the internet.

AED’S DONATED TO CLINTON AND LYCOMING COUNTIES

First Quality Enterprises, LLC recently donated 100 AED’s  or Automated External Defibrillator to UPMC and Susquehanna Health Foundation for use in  Clinton and Lycoming counties.  According to North Central PA dot com, First Quality manufactures personal care and household paper products in Clinton County and supports UPMC’s Minutes Matter campaign which aims to increase survival rates after cardiac arrest in north central Pennsylvania by increasing community access to AEDs.  According to administrators from UPMC after AED’s are distributed, education and training of the basic knowledge required to use and maintain the device will be given.

SPORTS

PIAA HS Basketball
Boys
So. Williamsport 56    Bucktail 55
Girls
Bloomsburg 43            Danville 20
Jersey Shore 52            Montoursville 50
Loyalsock Twp 49       Williamsport 41

NCAA Football
Penn State Football head coach James Franklin announced the hiring of Tom Allen as defensive coordinator and linebackers coach. Allen spent the previous seven seasons as the head coach at Indiana.

NBA
Grizzlies 115      Pelicans 113
Bucks 132           Spurs 119
Warriors 132      Celtics 126
Trail Blazers 109 Suns 104
NBA Tonight
Timberwolves vs 76ers  7pm
Knicks vs Nets 7:30pm

NHL
Rangers 5  Maple 2
Flyers 3               Devils 2
Islanders 3          Oilers 1
Coyotes 4            Senators 3
NHL Tonight
Islanders vs Capitals 7:30 TNT

BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS DECEMBER 19, 2023

FLOODING IN NORTHUMBERLAND COUNTY

There are a few roadways still impacted by flood waters after weekend rains brought about flood watches and warnings for some counties in North Central PA.  In Northumberland County, Route 61, the Hamilton Underpass, between Highland Avenue in Sunbury and Green Street in Upper Augusta Township has reopened after flooding caused the closure early Monday.  However, according to Penn DOT, Shakespeare Road between Route 45 and Hobbes Road in East Chillisquaque Township is still closed. A few closures in Montour and Sullivan Township are still affected this morning, with a National Weather Service flood warning this morning through till tomorrow afternoon in Bloomsburg for the Susquehanna River which is expected to crest at 20 feet this afternoon.  Motorists are advised to never drive into flood waters.

SPEED NOT A FACTOR IN FATAL ACCIDENT IN LEWISBURG

Police completed the investigation into the fatal pedestrian accident on Market Street in Lewisburg Friday. According to the Daily Item, Buffalo Valley Regional Police say speed was not a factor in the accident that killed 77 year old Mabel Shively of Millmont after she was hit by a tractor-trailer in the 300 hundred block of Market Street before noon Friday.  Reports say Shively attempted to cross Market Street in the middle of the block and was struck. Emergency responders said the truck driver was uninjured and no charges will be filed against him.

NEW PROBABTION LAWS IN PENNSYLVANIA

In Harrisburg last week, a new Pennsylvania probation law that aims to limit the length of probation to help prevent people from being sent back to jail for minor violations was passed, as well as the passage of a bill that allows courts to seal records of non-violent drug felonies with a minimum sentence of under 2 1/2 years in prison.  According to the Lock Haven Express, the bill also prohibits courts from extending someone’s probation for not paying fines or court costs if they are found to be unable to afford it.  The ACLU says the law doesn’t fix the problems that plague Pennsylvania’s probation system.

NEW YEARS DAY HIKES

New Year’s Day in the Commonwealth brings the chance to take “First Day Hikes” planned and hosted by DCNR and 43 state parks and two forest districts.  According to DCNR, the New Year’s Day hikes are designed to be fun and support a healthy start for 2024. State park and forest staff and volunteers lead the hikes, which are usually about one or two miles.  Many Pennsylvania state parks also have self-guided hikes, story walks, and adventure labs available year-round find out more at events.dcnr.pa.gov.

FLOOD STAGE FOR SUSQUEHANNA

The National weather service is forecasting flood stage conditions this morning through early tomorrow for the Susquehanna River at Bloomsburg.  According to an emergency weather message for Pennsylvania, there is a warning for high water conditions that when over 19 feet affect homes along River Road, at the Fairgrounds and surrounding properties.  The river at Bloomsburg is expected to crest at 20 feet this afternoon – overnight the river was t 17.5 feet.  In Danville, the similar warning for the Susquehanna starts this afternoon and goes until late tonight with flood water impact in Riverside, also at 20 feet, and the crest is expected this afternoon, only to fall below flood stage by tonight.

MAN ELUDES POLICE, GETS ARRESTED

Police from Shamokin, who were trying to stop a man driving a Chevy Cobalt for an expired registration and inspection on November 30th, were led on a chase for a few miles through the streets of Shamokin.  According to North Central PA dot com, 30 year old Mark Getz Jr., sped up, allegedly attempting to flee from police when they turned their cruiser lights on, leading the chase ultimately up Big Mountain Road where police stopped the pursuit.  Officers searched for Getz in the area knowing the car he drove belonged to another resident.  They charged Getz with felony fleeing, and other traffic summaries, his preliminary hearing is January 23rd.

FREE FRIENDLY PHONE LINE IN PA

Pennsylvanians who need an emotional boost, have an opportunity to hear words of encouragement, jokes or pep talks through a free You’ve Got a Friend in Pennsylvania, a phone line, which features searchable recorded messages done by students in grades K-12 across Pennsylvania.  The Pennsylvania Department of Education says callers can access the line at 717-772-4737 and select from menu options anytime during the holiday season, a time when people can struggle with mental health, and can use a little pick-me-up. Go to Education .pa.gov for information.

GEISINGER RECOGNIZED AS A GREAT PLACE TO EMPLOY VETERANS

Geisinger has been recognized as a top employer for its continued support of military veterans and active service members with two recent designations. The Pennsylvania-based health system earned the 2024 Military Friendly Employer with Gold distinction designation and was also recognized by Military Times on its 2023 Best for Vets: Employers list.  This is the fifth consecutive year Geisinger has been recognized with a Military Friendly Employer designation and the second year in a row the system has achieved the gold ranking. It’s also the fourth consecutive year Geisinger has been recognized by Military Times. 

SPORTS

PIAA HS Basketball
Girls  
Hughesville 44            Lewisburg  41 
Shamokin 50                Danville 24
Norry Christian 58      Midd-West  42
Boys
Loyalsock  78              Shamokin 76
Central Mountain 77   Montoursville  59
Canton  51                    Sullivan County  45

NFL Monday Night Football
Seahawks  20               Eagles  17

NBA
Cavaliers 135       Rockets 130
Bulls 108              76’ers 104
Jazz  125              Nets  108
Kings 143            Wizards  131 
Knicks  114          Lakers  109
NBA Tonight
Memphis vs New Orleans 7:30pm TNT
Celtics vs Golden State 10pm TNT


NHL 
Ducks 4                Red Wings  3
Penguins 4                      Wild 3
Canadiens 3         Jets 2
Stars 4                  Kraken  3
Flames  3              Panthers  1
NHL Tonight
Rangers vs  Maple Leafs 7pm
Flyers vs NJ Devils 7pm
Edmonton vs NY Islanders 7:30pm ESPN+/Hulu


NCAA Football  Tonight
Scooter’s Coffee Frisco Bowl
USTA vs Marshall  9pm  ESPN – Frisco, TX
NCAA Football Thursday
RoofClaim.com Boca Raton Bowl
South Florida vs Syracuse  8pm ESPN Boca Raton, FL

BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS DECEMBER 18, 2023

WILLIAMSPORT MAN’S SUPERVISED RELEASE REVOKED

A man from Williamsport who police say violated terms of his supervised prison release, has been incarcerated.  According to North Central PA dot com, court records say 30 year old Michael William Wright was found in possession of a firearm while allegedly committing a felony for drug trafficking October 7th, after which he was arrested for a domestic violence assault.  Wright will now face imprisonment for 18 months in a federal facility.

PENN DOT BRIDGE WORK THIS WEEK

Motorists are advised of single lane conditions next week on Route 45 in West Chillisquaque Township, Northumberland County and Lewisburg Borough, Union County for a light post installation project on the Lewisburg River Bridge. This Thursday, December 21, 2023, a PennDOT maintenance crew will be working on the bridge that takes Route 45 over the West Branch of the Susquehanna River. Motorists can expect single lane conditions with flagging between the hours of 8am and 3pm, weather permitting.

DOJ GRANT FOR PENN COLLEGE’S PRISON TO COLLEGE PROGRAM

The Department of Justice has awarded a grant for over 865 thousand dollars for Penn College’s Lycoming County Prison-to-College Program that began as a pilot program in 2022.  According to the school, the highly competitive grant was awarded through the Second Chance Act Improving Reentry Education and Employment Outcomes program, which is an evidence-based approach that provides meaningful opportunities, interrupts the cycle of unemployment, improves economic mobility and promote reentry success for formerly incarcerated adults.  The Prison-to-College Program offers the college’s entry Communications course to inmates at no cost.  Go to PCT.edu for more information.

MEGAN’S LAW OFFENDER ATTEMPTS TO ELUDE POLICE

A man from Potter County who is a Megan’s Law offender attempted to move him and his family to Tennessee in October without telling police about the move.  According to North Central PA dot com, a school resource officer in in Hamblen County, Tennessee became suspicious about the circumstances when Roy Robert Button and his wife were trying to register their three children for school there.  After an investigation, police caught up with Button and charged him with failure to comply with Megan’s Law registration requirements.  Police say, Button has recently been arrested in two counties in Tennessee for sex offender registry violations and for child abuse.

NOT GUILTY FOR FORMER WASD TEACHER

A former Williamsport area school teacher was found not guilty Friday on 22 sexual assault related charges following a two-day trial last week. According to the Sun Gazette, Christopher Yoder who was alleged to have an inappropriate sexual relationship with a student during the 2011-12 school year, had faced statutory and institutional sexual assault, aggravated indecent assault and other charges. A jury of 8 men and 2 women brought the verdict before a full courtroom in front of Judge Ryan Tira. Yoder, was previously exonerated by a jury in November of similar charges by another student.

NON-PROFIT WORKSHOPS IN JANAUARY WITH FCFP

The First Community Foundation Partnership will be holding workshops in January to help local nonprofits organizations apply for funding.  Grant opportunities for 2024 are available through funds known as Century Funds, Greater Susquehanna Valley competitive grants, Lindig Lewisburg Foundation and others.  The two days of workshops are January 17th in person and January 18th online.  Go to fcf partnership dot org  to get information, or call 570-321-1500.

911 SURCHARGE TO GO UP

The phone surcharge for 911 service is going up.  According to WHTM,  the 30 cent increase is expected in 2024 to bring in $392 million in a full fiscal year, compared to the $331 million that the lower surcharge generated in a fiscal year, according to the law’s fiscal note. The new rate of $1.95 a month is a compromise on a proposal Gov. Josh Shapiro made during the budget process who wanted the surcharge to be $2.03.  Under the new law, the previous surcharge was set to expire in February, the new price will now extend until January 31, 2026.

SPORTS

NFL Sunday
Browns 20          Bears 17
Buccaneers 34    Packers 20
Dolphins 30        Jets 0
Chiefs 27            Patriots 17
Saints 24             Giants 6
Bills 31               Cowboys 10
Ravens 23           Jaguars 7
NFL Monday Night Football
Eagles vs Seahawks  8:15pm ABC

NBA
Celtics 114          Magic 97
Pelicans 146       Spurs 110
Bucks  128          Rockets 119
Suns  112                     Wizards 108 
Warriors  118     Trail Blazers  114
NBA Tonight
Bulls vs 76ers  7pm
Nets vs Jazz 9pm
Knicks vs Lakers 10:30pm

NHL
Canucks  4          Blackhawks  3 
Capitals  2           Hurricanes 1
Ducks  5              Devils 1
Avalanche 6        Sharks 2
Golden Knights  6  Senators  3
NHL Tonight
Wild vs  Penguins  7pm
Flyers play the Devils Tuesday

BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS DECEMBER 15, 2023

SECOND TRIAL FOR FORMER WASD TEACHER

A former Williamsport Area School District teacher accused of having a sexual relationship with a minor student started his second trial this week in Lycoming County Court.  According to the Sun Gazette, 43 year old Christopher Yoder allegedly had contact with the minor during the 2011-12 school year and is facing statutory and institutional sexual and other assault charges.  Yoder previously faced six counts of unlawful contact with a minor but he was not convicted in November of 2022. 

ACCIDENT TUESDAY IN SHAMOKIN DAM

State Police are investigating a crash that happened near Shamokin Dam Tuesday near the Routes 11 & 15 intersection. According to police, 45-year-old John Lower of Sunbury was not wearing a seatbelt when he crashed into the mountainside along Route 11 at about 5:30pm. Lower had suspected serious injuries but there is no word on what facility the man was taken to. Hummels Wharf fire and EMS crews, PennDOT, and local fire police were on the scene.

CLINTON COUNTY WOMAN SENTENCED TO 12 YEARS IN PRISON

A Lock Haven woman was sentenced in Clinton County Court on Tuesday for charges against her for eight separate criminal offenses relating to an April home invasion on the 300 Block of Pennsylvania Avenue in South Renovo.  According to the Lock Haven Express, Common Pleas Judge Michael F. Salisbury said 26 year old Breanna Englert must serve a 12 year sentence for felony Criminal Trespass, Terroristic Threats Recklessly endangerment, simple assault, and one count of Cruelty to Animals.  DA Dave Strouse had asked for Englert to receive the maximum sentence; 25 years, saying a lesser sentence would be an injustice, because it’s his opinion that Englert will re-offend.

NEW ALERT SYTEM COMING TO SUNBURY

An emergency alert system is expected to be implemented next year that Sunbury officials say will allow city officials to alert residents of announcements, such as council meetings, street sweeping, planned events as well as emergency or weather announcements.  According to the Daily Item, Sunbury Mayor Josh Brosious says they are considering a system that also has a new time card feature for city employees who will then be required to use city-issued identification badges to log in and out of work for their shifts.  Both new initiatives are set to begin in early 2024.

MAN DIDN’T LEAVE WILLIAMSPORT HOME AFTER BREAK-IN

A man who was discovered inside a Williamsport woman’s home December 4th was arrested by city police.  According to North Central PA dot com, the Germania Street homeowner said she went to investigate a noise and found 56 year old Bradley James Ryan had entered her home through an unlocked door looking for someone the woman said didn’t live there.  Ryan left the home but stayed on the property, later attempting to enter the home through a basement door.  When police arrived they took Ryan into custody and he was committed to Lycoming County Prison on 15 thousand dollars bail.

ROAD RAGE LEADS TO BROKEN CAR WINDOW

Police say a driver involved in a road rage incident Saturday, fled the scene after throwing an object at the victim’s car and breaking their rear window in Snyder County.  According to North Central PA dot com, the victim was driving along Ninth Street and N. Susquehanna Trail in Monroe Township, when another driver, possibly in a maroon Dodge Ram pickup truck threw an unknown object breaking the back window of the Subaru Forester, before they drove north on Airport Road.  If you have information about the incident, call police at 570 374-8145.

HALF MIL INCREASE FOR WILLIAMSPORT REAL ESTATE TAX

Williamsport City Council has adopted a half mil real estate tax increase along with the 2024 budget this week.  According to the Sun Gazette, after previous readings and work sessions through the budget, the rate was set Thursday at 16.72 mills.  Homeowners with property assessed at a value of 100 thousand dollars will now pay 1,672 dollars per year.  Councilwoman Liz Miele was a dissenting vote, saying the half mil will not work with the expected financial circumstances. 

AUDUBON SOCIETY WANTS TO WORK ON THIRD BIRD ATLAS

People who live in Tioga or Potter Counties are invited to partner with the Tiadaghton Audubon Society to help work on the third edition of a birdwatchers’ database project.  According to the society, the third Pennsylvania Bird Atlas compiles birdwatchers’ observations to determine changes in bird populations, locations, and behaviors. There will be an in-person information session about the project on Wednesday, December 20 at 6 p.m. in the old music room of the Wellsboro Area School District Administration Building at 22 Nichols Street, Wellsboro.  For more details, email the Tiadaghton Audubon Society by emailing TAS member at yahoo.com.

SPORTS

PIAA HS Basketball

Boys
Williamsport 49  Crestwood  47
Shamokin 67        Montoursville 46
Mount Carmel 54          Jersey Shore  43
Milton  61            Midd-West 37
Norry Christian 63  Weatherly  53

Girls
Hughesville  75    St. John Neumann 16
Jersey Shore 52    Mount Carmel  31
Sullivan Co. 63    CMVT  15
Williamson 47      Towanda 37
Benton 31             Midd-West 19
Greenwood 44      Line Mountain 38

NFL Thursday Night Football
Raiders 63           Chargers 21
Saturday NFL this week
Vikings vs Bengals 1pm NFL Net
Steelers vs Colts 4:30pm NFL Net
Broncos vs Lions 8:15pm NFL Net
NFL Sunday
Jets vs Miami Dolphins 1pm CBS
Chiefs vs Patriots 1pm FOX
Giants vs Saints 1pm
Dallas vs Buffalo 4:25pm FOX
Baltimore vs Jacksonville 8:20 NBC

NCAA Bowl Games Saturday
Myrtle Beach Bowl from Conway, SC
Georgia Southern vs Ohio Bobcats 1am ESPN
Avocados from Mexico Bowl in Orlando, Florida
Miami (OH) vs Appalachian State 3:30pm ABC

NBA
Celtics 116                Cavaliers 107
Bulls 124                   Heat  116
Nuggets 124             Nets 101
Kings 128                  Thunder  123
Clippers 121             Warriors 113
NBA Tonight
Detroit vs 76ers  7pm
Lakers vs San Antonio  7:30 ESPN
Knicks vs Phoenix  10pm ESPN

BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS DECEMBER 14, 2023

ACCIDENT SHUTS DOWN INTERSTATE

Penn DOT says I-180 is reopened this morning after an accident overnight closed the westbound side of the interstate between the Watsontown and McEwensville exit and the Route 54 and Turbotville in Northumberland.  There may still be debris on the shoulder near mile marker 3.  According to social media reports, a passenger car and a semi-truck collided near in Delaware Township, but no serious injuries were reported.  The truck may have been carrying mattresses and crews are cleaning the debris from the area.  Scanner reports say there may have been a fuel spill.  You can check conditions on all area roadways 24/7 at 511PA dot com.

MILL HALL MAN GUILTY ON FOUR OF FIVE COUNTS

A jury decided yesterday that a man from Mill Hall on trial from shooting in Porter Township in 2022, was guilty on four of the five counts in Lycoming County Court.  According to the Sun Gazette, 39 year old Nigel Lee faces sentencing for first and second degree aggravated assault, and firearms charges for the shooting of Adam Butler, but the jury deadlocked on a count of criminal attempt at first degree murder.  Butler was shot through the hand.  Lee’s sentencing is scheduled for early February.

POLICE SEEKING LOST RIFLE IN BRADFORD COUNTY

State police in Towanda say a man from New Albany who was hunting in Bradford County November 27th, propped his rifle against a tree and forgot to pack it in his car when he left, and now the rifle is missing.  According to North Central PA dot com, the 64 year old hunter finished his morning hunt in Overton Township and propped the black Ruger American 6.5 Creedmoor rifle with a Vortex Diamondback scope against a tree along Bahl Road before he left the area in his car.  No word on how much time elapsed between him leaving the firearm behind and then trying to retrieve it.  If you have information on the missing rifle, call PSP Towanda at 570-265-2186.

BASKETBALL FUNDRAISER FOR WASD EDUCATION FOUNDATION

The Williamsport Area School District Education Foundation will host a fundraiser basketball game between the Harlem Wizards and the “Millionaire Magicians” team, which is comprised of teachers, principals, staff and students from across the Williamsport district at the Magic Dome at Williamsport High School Wednesday, January 17th at 6:30.  According to the Sun Gazette, the Harlem Wizards, a New Jersey-based organization promises a night of spontaneous humor and excitement.  Doors open at 5:30 and tickets are available through the education foundation’s website under “Events” at www.wasdeducationfoundation.org or at www.harlemwizards.com. 

LOYALSOCK MAN STEALS CAR, LEADS CHASE WITH POLICE

A man from Loyalsock Township was incarcerated after authorities say he stole his mother’s vehicle, causing numerous crashes and leading police on a pursuit Saturday night until he went down an embankment near Rural Avenue.  According to the Sun Gazette, 39 year old Rory McCormick Soha was allegedly drunk and was not injured.  Police discovered he had already lost his license due to a previous DUI conviction, and  was unable to stand while at the DUI center, where he refused a blood draw.  He was later arraigned for felony fleeing, theft and more.  His is in Lycoming County Prison in lieu of 30 thousand dollars bail.

HOMICIDE CHARGES HELD OVER FOR NORRY COURT

Charges are to be bound over for court in Northumberland County for a homicide suspect who fatally shot a man November 2nd in Sunbury in an argument over a woman while his co-defendant was in the car.  Eighteen year old Jose Jusino-Morales, of Susquehanna Avenue was in court Tuesday with 21 year old Armando Pena-Alvayero of Church Street, who testified for the prosecution.  Court records say, that after the shooting, Jusino-Morales gave Pena-Alvyero the gun he used to shoot the victim on Market Street and threatened him not to talk before they left the victim for dead at about 11:30pm.  Sunbury police say Pena-Alvayero turned the weapon in and told police about the shooting that night, and waived his preliminary hearing this week for tampering with evidence.

RAIL FREIGHT PROJECTS ANNOUNCED FOR PA

Penn DOT announced this week the approval of 25 rail freight improvement projects that are aligned with Governor Shapiro’s commitment to improve Pennsylvania’s infrastructure, supporting economic growth.  Officials from PennDOT said, Pennsylvania’s rail freight network supported by state and federal funding will support nearly 300 family-sustaining jobs and connect Pennsylvania communities to the global economy.  Pennsylvania has 65 operating railroads, which is more than any other state.

WOMEN’S HEALTH CLINIC COMING TO SELINSGROVE

A new women’s health clinic is coming to Selinsgrove.  According to Evangelical Community Hospital, OB/GYN of Evangelical will open Monday December 18th with physicians, physician assistants, and midwives available to see patients Mondays, Tuesdays, and Wednesdays at 21 Susquehanna Mall Drive – next to the Sheetz on Route 15.  The specialty clinic can be a convenient location for patients of Snyder County and surrounding areas.  Make an appointment by calling the Selinsgrove location by calling 570-523-8700.

SPORTS

PIAA HS Basketball

Boys
Athens 70             North Penn-Liberty 59
NE Bradford 54   Wellsboro 46
Troy 74                Sayre 32
Muncy 69             Bucktail 30
NP Mansfield 76  Williamson 49
Canton 52            Towanda 48

Girls
St. John Neumann 49    Muncy 26
Shamokin 43                 Williams Val. 26
South Williamsport 52  Montgomery 24
Sullivan County 63        CMVT 15
Northwest Area 49                  Millville 38
Central Mountain 55     Mifflinburg 33

PIAA HS Wrestling
Montgomery 47             Shikellamy 16
Line Mountain 44          Upper Dauphin 24

NFL Thursday night Football Tonight
LA Chargers vs Las Vegas Raiders 8:15pm Prime Video

NBA
76ers 129             Pistons 111
Pelicans 142         Wizards 122
Bucks 140            Pacers 126
Lakers 122                     Spurs  119
Nets  116              Suns 112
Jazz 117               Knicks 113
NBA Tonight
Cleveland vs Celtics 7:30pm NBA TV
Brooklyn vs Denver 9pm
Golden State vs Clippers 10:30pm NBA TV

NHL
Penguins 4            Canadiens 3 
Devils 2      Bruins 1
Islanders 4            Ducks  3
Avalanche 5  Sabres 1
Jets 5          Kings 2
NHL Tonight
Washington vs Phila. 7pm

BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS DECEMBER 13, 2023

FIRE IN MILL HALL TUESDAY MORNING

There was a structure fire in Mill Hall yesterday that had multiple crews on the scene.  According to the Lock Haven Express, a fire at 119 Dewey Street broke out about 7:45 am according to police reports.  Main Street was shut down around 8am and traffic diverted around the area, including Central Mountain School buses and other vehicles directed with traffic control around Pennsylvania Avenue.  Crews working the blaze reported it under control just before 8:30am and officials from the Suburban Water Authority were also called to the area.  No reports on what caused the blaze.

FORMER EMPLOYEES WANT INVESTIGATION INTO DEA HAZARDS

The Lycoming County District Attorney has been asked to open an investigation into the criminal allegations by former employees that the Eureka Resources Oil & Gas Wastewater Treatment Co. in Williamsport committed environmental violations.  According to the Sun Gazette, the request also includes an internal audit by OSHA and a probe into the willful neglect of the matter by the company.  The request was made during a recent press briefing held by several former employees who allege they were exposed to dangerous chemicals while working and three democratic State Senators who are looking for District Attorney Ryan Gardner  to open the criminal investigation.

SHOE BANK OPEN THIS WEEKEND

The Lock Haven area Shoe bank will be open this Saturday for eligible teens and kids to choose two pairs of shoes free by appointment.  Those who have students attending in Clinton County or at the Liberty Curtin School  is invited to book a time-slot by calling Diahann at 814-571-5324.  The Lock Haven Area Shoe Bank is inside Covenant United Methodist Church, 44 W. Main Street, and is generally open one Saturday a month.  Funding is provided by the Clinton County Community Foundation, the M&T Bank Charitable Foundation, civic groups, churches and individual donors.  Go to “Lock Haven Shoe Bank” on Facebook.

NEW POLICE CHIEF IN SUNBURY

Sunbury Mayor Josh Brosius swore in the city’s new police chief Monday night, with city council voting unanimously for Travis Bremigen to officially take the post. According to the Daily Item, Bremigen, who has been with the department for 22 years, has been serving as interim chief since former police Chief Brad Hare stepped down in the midst of charges of stealing money from the Americus Hose Company in October.  Chief Bremigan signed a three year contract with the city and says he plans to have an open-door policy with city residents.

MAN BACK IN CUSTODY AFTER ACCIDENTAL RELEASE

A Cogan Station man who had been accused of shaking a 5-month old baby was released inadvertently from the Northumberland County Jail through a clerical error, but voluntarily turned himself in December 7th after being released in November through no fault of his own.  According to the Daily Item, 33 year old Owen Moore is facing felony aggravated assault and endangering the welfare of children charges after being arrested last May when emergency responders were dispatched to his Court Drive home, in Gregg Township, Union County for an unresponsive infant, where they found the 5-month old that hospital officials said suffered from a traumatic brain injury consistent with shaking.

THEFT AT WEGMANS CAUGHT ON CAMERA

Williamsport police say officers nabbed two people October 30th at Wegmans in Williamsport when they tried to leave the store with a cart full of items without paying.  According to North Central PA dot com, 34 year old Patrick Brian Haught and 24 year old Kimberly Bella Rhee were seen on video surveillance by officers when they tried to exit an east side exit of the store near Williams Street.  Police stopped the pair just after they left the store.  Haught and Rhee were charged with theft misdemeanors, and have preliminary hearings later this month.   

KEYSTONE CENTRAL STATEMENT ON ACTIVE INVESTIGATION

The Keystone Central School District has released a statement about the active investigation that began in early November over inappropriate activity between a Central Mountain student and adult female staff members at Central Mountain Middle School.  According to school officials, the alleged inappropriate contact between the parties did not happen on school property, and all those involved, except for one person who is no longer employed by the school, have been placed on leave.  Administrators from the school said they will make further statements upon the conclusion of the investigation. 

PA TEACHER OF THE YEAR NAMED

A Mifflin County High School Grade 10 English teacher has been chosen as the 2024 Pennsylvania Teacher of the Year.  According to the PA Education Secretary, Susquehanna University graduate, Ashlie Crosson was recognized at the PA Department of Education’s annual professional development conference Monday.  Stephanie Machmer of Jersey Shore Area school district was also a finalist of 12 teachers statewide. Crosson will travel the state next year to meet and collaborate with other educators. She will represent the state in next year’s National Teacher of the Year competition.

SPORTS

PIAA HS Basketball


Boys
Northwest Area 52     Millville 27
Muncy 72                    St. John Neumann 49
Danville 57                  Milton 44
Lewisburg 66              Jersey Shore 38
Central Mountain 61   Mifflinburg 56



Girls
Shikellamy 49             Mount Carmel 28
Troy 60                        Sayre 19
Jersey Shore 48           Muncy 23
NP -Liberty 36            Athens 29
Central Columbia 45   Southern Columbia 23
Midd-West 60             CMVT 6
NE Bradford 67          Wellsboro 45
Williamson 43             NP-Mansfield 24

Wrestling
Benton 40                             Lake-Lehman 24
Williamson 50                      Troy 21
Warrior Run 72                    Muncy 3
Milton 35                              Mifflinburg 33
Canton 58                             Northeast Bradford 11
Montoursville 40                 Hughesville 21

NFL  Thursday night Football Tonight
LA Chargers vs LA Raiders 8:15pm Prime Video



NBA
Celtics 120          Cavaliers 113
Mavericks 127  Lakers125
Nuggets 114       Bulls 106
Suns  119                     Warriors 116
Clippers 119       Kings 99


NBA Tonight
76’ers vs Detroit 7pm
Brooklyn vs Phoenix 9pm
Knicks vs Utah Jazz 9pm


NHL
Maple Leafs 7     Rangers 3
Penguins 4          Coyotes 2
Predators 3          Flyers 2
NHL Tonight
Pittsburgh @ Montreal 7pm
Boston @ New Jersey 7:30pm TNT
Anaheim @ NY Islanders 7:30pm
Buffalo @ Colorado 10pm TNT

BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS DECEMBER 12, 2023

WILLIAMSPORT SHOOTING VICTIM IDENTIFIED

Police continue to investigate the fatal shooting on Memorial Avenue in Williamsport Saturday night, and have identified the victim who they found lying in the street about 3:30am. According to North Central PA dot com, a delay in contacting the Lycoming County coroner resulted in the time of death for 29 year old Jermaine Derick Mullen, who had been hit with multiple gunshots, being close to 6:15am, about 2 hours after police responded to the scene.  Police have not named a suspect in the shooting and ask that if anyone has information about the incident ot call Williamsport City police. 

FATAL CAR CRASH NEAR LOCK HAVEN SUNDAY

A Loganton man died Sunday after an accident along I-80 near Lock Haven.  According to WNEP, 43 year old Benjamin Snook was near mile marker 180 around 6pm Sunday when he lost control of the vehicle.  Police say Snook, who was not wearing a seatbelt, hit an embankment, and was thrown from the car.  He was pronounced dead at the scene of the accident.  Police say evidence of alcohol or another controlled substance use may have played a part in the crash.

UNION COUNTY DA APPOINTEE HEARING TODAY

The hearing for appointing the Union County District Attorney is scheduled for today. According to the Daily Item, a hearing to present the case for appointing Union County District Attorney-elect Brian Kerstetter will be held front of Union County Judge Michael Piecuch.  Kerstetter was denied the appointment in October for the position left vacant by the death of longtime District Attorney D. Peter Johnson, who held the position for nearly 28 years. Newly elected or reelected officials in Union County will be sworn in, at the Union County Courthouse, Lewisburg on January 2nd.

WREATHS ACROSS AMERICA SATURDAY

December 16th is National Wreaths Across America Day as declared by the US Congress beginning in 1992.  The national tradition typically takes place next Saturday in many cemeteries across the US, including dozens of local cemeteries in Lycoming County and beyond.  Volunteers will place over 2 million evergreen wreaths on veteran’s graves that will remain in place until January 20th.  Get details about volunteering at local cemeteries and find out when their ceremony and wreath-laying events will be held by going online to Wreaths Across America dot org.

VISA FRAUD LANDS MAN WITH JAIL SENTENCE

A man from India who owned a gas station in Clinton County has been convicted of Visa fraud after staging a robbery at the business so he could apply for a special U-Visa available to crime victims.  According to State Police, they investigated and found 50 year old Vinaykumar Patel, who is a citizen of the Republic of India, had asked an associate to hire someone to rob his store in June of 2019.  After a 3-day trial last week, Patel was found guilty and could face up to 25 years in prison when he is sentenced.

TEMPORARY LYCO SPCA CLOSURE AFTER PARVO DETECTED

The Lycoming County SPCA has been forced to temporarily close after one dog came in tested positive for Canine Parvovirus, a highly contagious illness for dogs, and one other dog was exposed.  SPCA officials say all other dogs have been tested and boosted and they are fine. According to WNEP, adoptions and dog intakes in Lycoming County are not allowed at this time, but they are continuing to test and monitor for the virus and as long as the health of the animals remains ok, they are set to reopen on December 23rd.  They welcome any donations to help offset the costs for their healthy homeless pets campaign.  Go to Lycoming spca.org.

UNION COUNTY TREE SALE

The Union County Conservation District in Lewisburg has begun taking orders for their 2024 Tree Sale.  According to published materials from the county, orders for a series of seedlings are available with orders being accepted through April 12th and deliveries will be at the end of April.  Soil test kits from Union County are also available.  Go to union county pa dot org for information.

POTENTIAL RETURN TO PASSENGER RAIL IN NE PA DESIGNATED

The Federal Railroad Administration is looking to develop more rail lines between American cities and has named a line between Scranton and New York City as a possible location for passenger rail through the Corridor Identification and Development Program.  According to Senator Bob Casey, designating passenger rail for service in the North East PA region again can be a game-changing force for our economy.  Rail service previously ran on the Lackawanna Cut-Off directly between Scranton and New York, but was discontinued in 1970.  The designation is considered a key step toward getting federal funding for the proposed rail service.

SPORTS

PIAA HS Basketball

Boys
Loyalsock 57        Central Columbia 42
Mansfield 81        South Williamsport 31
Abington 78         Shamokin 46
St John Neumann 63  Bloomsburg 56
Danville 57           Milton 44
Selinsgrove 64      Hughesville  31

Girls
Loyalsock 53        Central Columbia  29
Hughesville 55     Selinsgrove 20
Meadowbrook Christian 50    Canton  30
Lewisburg  40      Warrior Run  37


NFL Monday Night Football
Titans 28              Dolphins 27
NY Giants 24       Packers 22
NFL  Thursday night Football
LA Chargers vs LA Raiders 8:15pm Prime Video

NBA
Magic 104            Cavaliers 94
76ers 146              Wizards 101
Nuggets 129         Hawks  122
Knicks 136                     Raptors 130
Bucks 133           Bulls 129
Kings 131             Nets 118
NBA Tonight
Lakers vs Dallas 7:30 TNT
Golden State vs Phoenix 10pm TNT

NHL
Sabres 5                Coyotes 2
Islanders 4           Maple Leafs  3
Stars 6                  Red Wings 3
Avalanche 6         Flames 5
NHL Tonight
Arizona vs Pittsburgh Penguins 7pm
Toronto vs NY Rangers 7pm
Flyers vs Nashville 8pm

BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS DECEMBER 11, 2023

DEADLY SHOOTING IN WILLIAMSPORT SATURDAY

Williamsport City Police went to the 1000 block of Memorial Avenue early Saturday morning after a call for shots fired at about 3:30am.  According to North Central PA dot com, after arrival, police found an unresponsive male with multiple gunshot wounds lying in the roadway.   Emergency crews attempted to revive the man who had been shot, but pronounced him dead at the scene.  Police are seeking information surround the shooting and ask you call Agent Ben Hitesman if you can help with the investigation.  570-327-7560 ext. 7595.

WOMAN THREATENED WHILE DRIVING

A man from Cogan Station was arrested for following a woman in her car and threatening her over the phone while driving along Route 45 November 30th.  According to North Central PA dot com, 24 year old James Micah Rooker U-turned on the roadway near Lewisburg to follow his accuser until she pulled into a parking lot of Old Turnpike Raod.  Police say another tried to help the woman and Rooker also threatened to kill him before he fled the scene.  Police later took him into custody and he has a preliminary hearing December 21st.

FIRST READING OF WILLIAMSPORT BUDGET PASSES 1 MIL HIKE

A 1 mil real estate tax hike was passed on the first budget reading by the Williamsport City Council Thursday. According to the SUN Gazette, the first reading included the real estate tax increase due to the city’s responsibility to the debt service, previously funded by River Valley Transit – now River Valley Transit Authority, which is approximately $800,000 a year. Council members say they will continue their research of the updated reduced budget deficit changes as they approach another budget reading date.

WILLIAMSPORT HS SINGERS PERFORM AT WHITE HOUSE

Williamsport Area High School’s Millionaire Singers visited and performed at the White House this past week.  As reported by SUN Gazette, the 32 members wore black tuxedos and gowns as they performed in the East Room of the White House. The singers have performed at the White House for every administration starting with President Bill Clinton. Even though the students did not meet the president or first lady, they enjoyed a self-guided tour of one of the most famous sites in the United States. The students are slated to perform their annual holiday concert, at 3 p.m., Dec. 17 at the high school auditorium.

THREE OFFICERS’ TRIAL SET FOR FEBRUARY

The trial for three former Mount Carmel police officers has been scheduled for early next year. According to the Daily Item, jury selection for former officer Kyle Schauer, retired Lt. David Donkochik and former officer Jonathan McHugh, is slated to start on Feb 5th at the Federal Courthouse in Williamsport. All three defendants were arrested in June when a federal indictment alleged all three officers, in upwards of 22 different arrests, used excessive force against arrestees from 2018-2021.

ELECTRONICS THEFT AT SELINSGROVE WALLMART

Thieves stole almost three thousand dollars-worth of electronics from the Best Buy store in Selinsgrove December 2nd.  According to State police in Selinsgrove, a black couple in a silver Nissan sedan was seen at the store around 4pm.  They allegedly entered the store and stole five PlayStation 5’s and five Playstation controllers.  Police say an Hispanic male driving a burgundy Subaru was seen talking with one of the suspects in the parking lot before the theft, but police do not know how or if he is involved in the theft.  Call state police with any information you know about the theft or the suspects.

VOTE FOR YOUR FAVORITE RIVER CANDIDATE

It’s time to vote for your favorite Pennsylvania River of the Year for 2024.  According to DCNR, this year’s contestants are the Allegheny River, Lackawaxen River, and Youghiogheny (yacka gainey) River and the competition is here to highlight Pennsylvania’s special waterways and the benefits they bring for conservation, recreation, economic development, and so much more.  The 2023 River of the Year designation was awarded to North Branch of the Susquehanna River.  Voting will remain open through 5 p.m. Friday, January 19th.  Get details at pa watershed .org.

NEW MILK SHAKE FLAVOR COMING TO FARM SHOW FOR 2024

Another fun flavor has been added to the Pennsylvania Dairymen’s Association milkshake menu for the 2024 Pennsylvania Farm Show – salted caramel.  The new flavor milkshakes will be available to purchase along with vanilla, chocolate and mixed flavors during this year’s Farm Show, January 6th through 13th in Harrisburg.  Dairymen’s Association is partnering with The Giant Company who will host the pop-up tasting stands, at their locations this month in Lancaster, Carlisle and Camp Hill.  The organization raises proceeds to support programs including Fill A Glass With Hope, PA Farm Bureau Mobile Ag Education Lab and PA Dairy Princess and Promotion Program.

SPORTS

NFL Sunday
Buccaneers 29    Falcons 25
Bengals 34          Colts 14
Browns 31          Jaguars 27
Jets 30                 Texans  6
Ravens 37           Rams 31
Bills 20               Chiefs 17 
Cowboys 33       Eagles 13
Broncos 24         Chargers 7
NFL Monday Night Football
Titans vs Dolphins 8:15pm ESPN
Packers vs Giants  8:15pm  ABC

NBA In Season Tournament Championship Saturday
Lakers 123          Pacers 109
NBA Tonight
Washington Wizards vs Philadelphia 76ers 7pm
Toronto vs Knicks 7:30pm
Brooklyn vs Sacramento 10pm

NHL
Panthers 5           Blue Jackets 2
Oilers 4                Devils 1
Rangers 4  Kings 1
Capitals 4            Blackhawks 2
NHL Tonight
Arizona vs Buffalo 7pm
Toronto vs NY Islanders 7pm

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