CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFO ABOUT THE 28th ANNUAL SET THE NIGHT TO MUSIC
BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS JUNE 28, 2023
WOMAN IN CUSTODY AFTER BENTON SHOOTING
The Benton Police department took a Columbia County woman into custody after shooting yesterday at a home along Main Streets in Benton Borough. According to WNEP, Tayler Vanatta argued with her boyfriend Tuesday morning which led to her shooting him in the hip . He was hospitalized but will recover. Police say there is no threat to public safety in Benton, and Vanatta was taken into custody.
MAN JAILED FOR VIOLATING PFA
A Williamsport man who was already out on 50 thousand dollars bail for a February incident of terroristic threats, assault and false imprisonment, has had new charges filed against him for sending threatening texts and voice messages to the same victim, after she filed a PFA in June. According to the Sun Gazette, court records say that 45 year old David Morgan Buck continued to send threatening voice messages and texts last May and June. Buck faces new charges of felony intimidation of a victim, and more terroristic threats and harassment and waived his preliminary hearing. He was re-committed to Lycoming County Prison this time in lieu of 50 thousand dollars bail.
JERSEY SHORE SCHOOLS QUESTION NEW HIRE OVER SALARY CONCERNS
A motion to hire an assistant middle school principal failed when the Jersey Shore Area School Board voted 4-4 with one member absent. This comes after the board challenged the annual salary of 97 thousand dollars for the asst principal position, saying it is too high. According to the Sun Gazette, the contract for Dr. Tara Battaglia who is an Act 93 Administrator, is already board approved, but now with the board asking to rethink the starting salary, Superintendent Dr. Brian Ulmer said in an email that he will have to renegotiate with the current candidate, and face a potential rejection of the new offer. That could then force them to repost the position
ROUTE 890 IN TREVORTON REOPEN
PennDOT, local crews and PPL completed clean up of wires and trees that came down Sunday along Route 890 that closed the road Monday morning, which caused a detour in Trevorton. According to PPL, no customers are experiencing outages at this time, but over 500 PPL customers in Columbia, Luzerne, Montour, Schuylkill, Snyder and Union Counties were without power following the weekend storms. Route 890 is clear and passible. Find conditions of all area roadways 24/7 at 511 PA dot com.
MAN JAILED FOR PRIOR CONTEMPT ALONG WITH DRUG CHARGES
A Cogan Station man was taken into custody Monday for a drug charge and is now also facing a prior charge for aggravated assault and endangering the welfare of a child from a case in 2022 in which he is accused of shaking his girlfriend’s baby causing critical injuries – which she survived. According to the Sun Gazette, Moore had avoided authorities when his bail was revoked in January for contempt of court in the child endangerment case, but now has new charges of possession with intent to deliver drugs and is in a Union County jail in lieu of 50 thousand dollars bail.
ANOTHER RESIGNATION IN OLD LYCOMING TOWNSHIP
There’s been another resignation in Old Lycoming Township, just another in a series of employees resigning or retiring in the last month. According to the Sun Gazette, Krista Strunk, worked at the township sewer department and had been serving as interim treasurer for Alex Kennedy who had previously resigned. In a dispute with community members over issues that include decisions about last year’s police regionalization decision,almost a dozen township employees have called it quits, leaving the township without a manager and Dave Shirn as the lone supervisor for now.
SOUTH CENTRAL PA TOUR GUIDE GORED BY BISON
A worker for Lake Tobias Wildlife Park employee in South Central PA was gored in the leg by a bison June 17th during a safari tour bus ride. According to PennLive 19-year-old Riley Blanchard was injured while she was giving a tour to 40 to 50 passengers. She has been working for the Dauphin County park, near Halifax, as a safari tour bus driver for two seasons, and this month while standing on the steps of the bus, the bison approached the woman and injured her. Blanchard has recovered and will return to work in July.
NEW LOVE CENTER FOOD PANTRY GOES TO CAMP SUSQUE
There are a few more dates being added to the schedule of the recently started New Love Center Mobile Food Pantry with the latest dates scheduled at Camp Susque in July and August. According to the Sun Gazette, the 501c3 camp on 47 Susque Camp Road in Trout Run, with its educational classes and connection to local schools and other non-profits is joining with the center to help figh food insecurity in the region. The Mobile food pantry will distribute milk, eggs, frozen meats, produce and canned goods at Camp Susque July 18th and August 22nd from ten to noon. A valid ID is the only thing required to receive food. Get details at www.newlovecenter.com
SPORTS
MLB
Guardians 2 Royals 1
Reds 3 Orioles 1
Pirates 9 Padres 4
Giants 3 Blue Jays 0
Marlins 10 Red Sox 1
Mets 7 Brewers 2
Braves 6 Twins 2
Cardinals 4 Astros 2
Rangers 8 Tigers 3
Phillies 5 Cubs 1
Dodgers 5 Rockies 0
Angels 4 White Sox 2
A’s 2 Yankees 1
Diamondbacks 8 Rays 4
Nationals 7 Mariners 4
MLB NEWS
Shohei Ohtani became the first American League pitcher in nearly 60 years to hit two homers and strike out 10 batters in a game, in a 6 1/3-inning start that ended because he had a cracked fingernail.
*It’s happened five other times in the majors: (AL) Cleveland’s Pedro Ramos on July 31, 1963, Baltimore’s Milt Pappas (1961), Philadelphia’s Rick Wise (1971), San Francisco’s Madison Bumgarner (2017) and Arizona’s Zack Greinke (2019)
*Ohtani (7-3) struck out at least 10 for the sixth time in 16 starts. He is third in the majors with 127 strikeouts.
MLB Draft League
Williamsport Crosscutters 8 Frederick Keys 7
*Williamsport tries to take 2 out of 3 tonight on the road in Maryland.
*They are back home at Historic Bowman Field Friday night with the Trenton Thunder 6:35pm first pitch.
NASCAR NEWS
The in-laws and nephew of seven-time NASCAR champion Jimmie Johnson were found dead after a reported shooting in an Oklahoma home Monday, and police say it was likely a murder-suicide.
*Johnson, who retired from full-time NASCAR racing following the 2020 season, has competed in three races this season for Legacy who withdrew their No. 84 Carvana Chevrolet from this weekend’s NASCAR Cup Series event in Chicago.
BACKYARD BROADCASTING JUNE 27, 2023
WRONGFUL DEATH SUIT SETTLED IN WILLIAMSPORT
A wrongful death settlement has been reached in the 2019 suit in which a Williamsport man in a motorized wheel chair was killed when he was struck and dragged by an SUV at Fourth and Williams Streets in the city. According to the Sun Gazette, the estate of John C. Yaraoz II asked to settle with the driver and the city for 265 thousand dollars in front of Lycoming County Judge Eric R. Linhardt with neither of the defendants admitting liability. During the investigation of the original accident that claimed the life of Yaroz, the city was accused of negligence for not properly maintaining the walk-don’t walk signal at the intersection, which according to police has since been repaired.
WOMAN SUING TO GET EXOTIC CAT BACK
A woman from New Jersey is suing a local animal rescue for allegedly holding her exotic emotional support cat illegally. According to North Central PA dot com, court records say that Catherine DeLucia’s cross-breed Savanna/Egyptian Mau cat was given to a New York animal rescue in a domestic dispute, and when she went to retrieve her pet, it had been transferred to Snyder County’s T&D’s Cats of the World facility who countersued and says the cat is illegal to own in New York State. DeLucia allegedly went to the rescue facility and during an altercation, spit in the face and eyes of the defendants who own the shelter requiring them to seek preventative care.
WATER BARRIERS TO BE PURCHASED FOR CROWD SAFETY
The City of Williamsport is planning to spend 40 thousand dollars of money from American Rescue Plan Funds on water barriers to ensure spectator safety during parades and special events. According to the Sun Gazette, the public works department will use 100 of the barriers to deter any issue with a vehicle that may go toward a crowd of people intentionally or unintentionally. The barriers each weigh 16 hundred pounds and are filled with 200 gallons of water. Other plans for the city include the installations of six to eight cameras and internet service at Shaw Park with plans for camera upgrades at other parks like the Memorial Pool, Lose and Newberry parks then Brandon and Young’s Parks.
GAME COMMISSION WEBSITE HAD ISSUES
The online buzz was mostly against the PA Game Commission yesterday for their execution of the online logistics for the first time doe tags were available online instead of by mail-in application. According to social media site, they experienced intermittent slowness and crashes and later, the commission apologized saying they are diligently working to resolve the issues in order to continue license sales. The Game Commission approved the change to go to online sales during their January 2023 meeting. The site to get your tag for this first round is up today – pgc.pa.gov.
MAN CHARGED WITH DUI
A Williamsport man is free on bail after he was charged with aggravated assault, DUI, reckless endangerment and more after an accident May 9th. According to the Sun Gazette, state police say 34 year old Brandon Eugene Baysore drove his 2008 Ford Edge into an Acura MDX driven by Tiffany Gettinger along Route 220 in Woodward Township forcing her car into a ditch and injuring a passenger who required intensive care at UPMC Williamsport. Baysore told police he had been golfing early and fell asleep at the wheel that night, while an investigation revealed multiple indicators of impairment – including the smell of alcohol on his breath. Baysore was charged last week in front of District Judge Denise Dieter before he posted his 50 thousand dollar bail.
POLICE SEEKING WOMAN FOR QUESTIONING
Police are seeking information about a mother and child who were seen in a dispute in the street and then traveling in a Black Honda with New Jersey plates in Old Lycoming Township. According to Lycoming Regional Police, they were dispatched to an area around Misner Road yesterday around 2pm when witnesses said they saw a woman speed up to a juvenile child who was standing on the street, get out of the car, hit the child who yelled back at her – calling her mom, and was then forced into the car. They were last seen traveling north in the 2300 block of Lycoming Creek Road with the license plate number A5B. Police are seeking the woman for questioning – they don’t believe it’s an abduction. Call Lycoming County Dispatch at 570-329-4060 or leave an anonymous Crimewatch tip.
PLUMBING UPGRADES COMING TO WILLIAM HEPBURN HIGHRISE
The William Hepburn high rise recently got approved for an almost 1.5 million dollar plumbing upgrade by the Lycoming Housing Authority last week. According to the Sun Gazette there was a lone bidder from an Ohio firm for the project and the authority had to bring in a third party consulting firm to create an independent cost estimate. This included pulling back on some desired features as a cost-saving measure but the ten-story high rise built in the late ‘60s is now set to undergo upgrades to the lining and brush coating of the original sanitary piping, vent piping and cold and hot water piping. The Authority does have the funds for the project, but also applied for a 750 thousand dollar Affordable Housing Program Grant to off-set costs.
TIOGA COUNTY RIDE RESCHEDULED FOR JULY
A motorcycle ride that was to benefit the Wellsboro Shared Home, that was postponed this weekend due to weather in Tioga County will now take place in Mansfield Sunday, July 23rd . According to WETM, the 100-mile ride will start at 11am with registration at 10am and the route will be the same; going from Eisenhauer’s Tioga County Harley-Davidson to Covington, Liberty, Morris, Wellsboro, Ansonia, and back to Mansfield for lunch at 1:15. Call for details 570-724-2300.
SPORTS
NCAA Men’s College Baseball
World Series Championship Game
LSU 18 Florida 4
LSU wins the series 2-1
MLB
Orioles 10 Reds 3
Brewers 2 Mets 1
Braves 4 Twins 1
Tigers 7 Rangers 2
Angels 2 White Sox 1
Mariners 8 Nationals 4
MLB Draft League
Frederick Keys 5 Crosscutters 3
Williamsport gets another shot on the road tonight in Game 2 out of 3 against the Keys – 7pm first pitch
NHL NEWS
Edmonton Oilers center Connor McDavid swept the top individual honors at the NHL Awards last night to cap his career-best season.
*McDavid won the Hart Trophy as the league’s most valuable player and the Ted Lindsay Award as the NHL Players’ Association’s most outstanding player.
*It was McDavid’s third Hart Trophy win, after having been nominated five times.
ABC Audio’s 40 on the 4th!
SUMMER IS UNDERWAY AND ABC AUDIO IS LOOKING BACK AT IMPACTFUL AND INFLUENTIAL ALBUMS AND SONGS TURNING 40 YEARS OLD ON JULY 4th WITH “ABC AUDIO’S FORTY ON THE FOURTH!”
HOSTED BY ABC AUDIO’S MATT WOLFE, WE’RE SPOTLIGHTING SONGS FROM ALBUMS RELEASED IN 1983!
FEATURING THE LIKES OF STEVIE NICKS, JOURNEY, THE POLICE, DEF LEPPARD, PAT BENATAR AND MORE! YOU’LL ALSO HEAR FROM EXPERTS AND THE ARTISTS THEMSELVES, LOOKING BACK AT THE MUSIC THAT CHANGED THE COURSE OF THEIR CAREERS!
HEAR IT FROM 3PM TO 6PM ON TUESDAY, JULY 4TH.
BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS JUNE 21, 2023
WOMAN FLOWN TO HOSPITAL AFTER MCCLURE WRECK
There was an accident along Route 522 Monday morning around 7:45 in McClure after which, a woman was flown to Geisinger and a man was taken into custody. According to media outlets, Middleburg police say they have 43 year old Samuel Smith in custody. Police say the female allegedly jumped from the moving vehicle and was found lying in the road and severely injured when officers arrived on the scene. Smith was arrested for impaired driving and is in custody for other pending charges. Police say Route 522 reopened after a brief closure yesterday and the investigation into the accident continues.
MONTOURSVILLE MAN CHARGED WITH UNLAWFUL CONTACT
A 21 year old Montoursville man is in custody after he allegedly asked a young girl if he could touch her and play games while she was on her property on Elm Street. According to North Central Pa dot com, the young girl ran inside her home and told a relative who called police after Anthony Jacob Kancevicius stuck his head under a nearby fence and continued to ask the girl to come into his backyard. Police arrested Kancevicius after an interview and charged him with interference with custody of children and unlawful contact with a minor. His bail was denied by Judge Gary Whiteman.
EAST BUFFALO TOWNSHIP BOIL WATER ADVISORY
Due to a water main break in East Buffalo Township, a boil water advisory is in place for about 14 hundred customers. According to the Daily Item, Pennsylvania American Water customers along dozens of streets are affected and should use bottled water and not drink any tap water without first bringing it to a rolling boil and letting it cool. Check information about the progress of the repair online at amwater.com/paaw , and get general information about health risks, call the EPA’s Safe Drinking Water Hotline at 800-426-4791.
SUSQUEHANNA GREENWAY PHOTO CONTEST
Interested participants have until June 30th to submit original photographs and share stories in the annual Susquehanna Greenway Photo Contest. The contest is free-to-enter and encourages photographers of all ages and skill levels to enter photos under several categories including Treasured River Towns, Susquehanna Landmarks, Susquehanna Adventures, and Wildlife. Cash prizes will be awarded for 1st, 2nd and 3rd place in each category with entries submitted electronically. Get details for entering at susquehannagreenway.org/photocontest .
MONTOURSVILLE MAN FACES OVER 800 MOLESTATION CHARGES
A man who used to live in Montoursville was brought back to PA to face over 800 charges for molestation of a child over a 3 year period between 2007 and 2010. According to the Sun Gazette, police say reports from the victim about 76 year old Danny Ray Brewer who allegedly committed the offenses in Fairfield Township came in earlier this year. Brewer, who denies the charges, was arrested in St. Clair County, Illinois, and waived extradition. He faces 100 felony counts of unlawful contact with and was arraigned in Lycoming County Court Sunday night.
GUEST PULLED UNRESPONSIVE FROM KNOEBELS POOL
The Knoebel’s Amusement Park family is asking all to pray for the best possible outcome for the man who was pulled unresponsive from a pool at the park Sunday by lifeguards. According to North Central PA dot com, when lifeguards and emergency personnel on duty discovered the man in the Crystal Pool, they immediately treated him at the scene with additional attention from the Knoebels EMS team before he was transported to Geisinger Medical Center in Danville. Park officials have not released the identity or the current condition of the victim.
LEGISLATURE TO PRESERVE INFRASTRUCTURE FROM VANDALISM
After attacks last year at two electrical substations in North Carolina involving gunfire at the sites which cut power to nearby communities for days, Senator Gene Yaw recently announced legislation to increase penalties against those who intentionally vandalize or attack critical infrastructure in Pennsylvania. Senate Bill 819, would bring 3rd degree felony charges and a fine of no less than $10,000, along with the potential to face civil suits for damages for those who willfully damage, destroy, or tamper with equipment in a critical infrastructure facility.
I-95 WILL OPEN AHEAD OF SCHEDULE
Governor Josh Shapiro announced that I-95 is set to be re-opened in two weeks – much earlier than predicted – after a tanker truck carrying a “petroleum-based product” caught fire under the interstate near Cottman Avenue last Sunday and the roadway collapsed. According to Penn Live, President Joe Biden was at the live press conference Saturday when Shapiro provided the update and confirmed that the federal government will provide funds to help build the Interstate System and help it be restored ahead of schedule. Construction work is continuing 24/7 with demolition of the overpass completed on Thursday. A live stream of the construction site now available at penndot.pa.gov under District 6, I-95 Updates.
SPORTS
MLB
Cardinals 8 Nationals 6
Tigers 6 Royals 4
Marlins 11 Blue Jays 0
Cubs 8 Pirates 0
Reds 5 Rockies 4
Red Sox 9 Twins 3
Diamondbacks 9 Brewers 1
Mets 11 Astros 1
Rangers 5 White Sox 2
Giants 7 Padres 4
MLB Draft League
The Williamsport Crosscutters are back tonight at Historic Bowman Field to play the Frederick Keys – 6:35 PM first pitch.
NBA
*The NBA Draft First Round starts Thursday – the Spurs have the first pick, followed by the Charlotte Hornets, Portland Trail Blazers, Houston Rockets and Detroit Pistons.
*The likely #1 pick in Thursday’s NBA Draft, Victor Wembanyama, arrived in the U.S. yesterday at Newark International Airport to crowds of fans already.
*The 19 year old, 7 foot 5 French prospect who will likely be taken by the San Antonio Spurs, will be at a pre-draft media event tomorrow, then appear in the Green Room at the actual draft on Thursday.
Kelly’s Kafe with Tag’s Family Style Takeout
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Let Kelly know what you want to hear by calling her at…
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Or via our E-REQUEST Online at wbzd.com/e-quests/
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BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS JUNE 19, 2023
PRESS CONFERENCE IDENTIFIES FALLEN TROOPER
State troopers have identified the officer who was shot and killed in the line of duty in Juniata County Saturday. According to Penn Live, 29 year old Trooper Jacques Rougeau Jr., was killed and 45 year old Lt.James Wagner was critically wounded in separate incidents prior to suspect 38 year old Brandon Stine of Thompsontown being killed. Police say Stine engaged officers just before 1 pm near the Lewistown police station in Mifflintown Borough where Wagner was shot. Stine then fled and was confronted at another location, where he and Rougeau were both fatally shot. Wagner is currently listed in critical condition at Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center.
WOMAN CHARGED WITH THEFT FROM EMPLOYER
A woman who had been hired for only two weeks at a Williamsport mini-mart before she allegedly stole money from the business was recently charged in district court. According to the Sun Gazette, Sandra Alexander was hired to work at the 6th and High Street mini mart in November of 2021 and was accused of stealing 17 hundred dollars. She was charged with theft and receiving stolen property and after waiving her preliminary hearing, is free on 25 hundred dollars bail.
OVERNIGHT MILLING AND PAVING ON I-180 THIS WEEK
I-180 A contractor will be milling and paving this week on the eastbound lanes of I-180 in Lycoming County starting at Loyalsock Creek and working eastward through Friday. Watch for alternating lane restrictions when work is going on between the hours of 7pm and 7am weather permitting. The work is part of a two year project that will mill and resurface over 13 miles of roadway at the Route 87 and Fairfield Road interchanges and include new lighting guide rail upgrades and more, with additional bridge work planned for 16 structures in the county.
I-180 A contractor will be milling and paving this week on the eastbound lanes of I-180 in Lycoming County starting at Loyalsock Creek and working eastward through Friday. Watch for alternating lane restrictions when work is going on between the hours of 7pm and 7am weather permitting. The work is part of a two year project that will mill and resurface over 13 miles of roadway at the Route 87 and Fairfield Road interchanges and include new lighting guide rail upgrades and more, with additional bridge work planned for 16 structures in the county.
BALD EAGLE LEGISLATION
There’s a new bill in PA legislature that would increase fines for killing bald and golden eagles to $2,000 from the current penalty of only $200 for anyone convicted of killing the national symbol. According to North Central PA dot com, Senate Bill 709, is sponsored by Sen. Lisa Boscola, D-Bethlehem. Pennsylvania removed the bald eagle from its endangered list to protected status in 2014, but since 2018, the Game Commission has filed 10 charges for unlawfully taking or possessing eagles. In Ohio, a conviction carries a maximum of 180 days in jail or a $1,000 fine.
FBI CHARGES THREE LOCAL OFFICERS WITH EXCESSIVE FORCE
Three Mount Carmel police officers have been charged by the FBI and state police have with excessive force, which could send them to prison for up to 10 years. According to the Daily Item, a federal indictment was filed Friday in U.S. Middle District Court against the officers. The indictment identifies officer Kyle Schauer, retired officer Lt. David Donkochik and former officer Jonathan McHugh and claims they used excessive force in upwards of 22 different arrests. All three were arrested on Friday.
MAN JAILED OVER EXTORTION CHARGE
A Mansfield man is facing a felony sexual extortion charge from accusations made against him in 2019 . According to the Daily Item, Ralpho Township police say Zane Bryan Walentukonis was arraigned in front of Milton District Judge Michael Diehl last Thursday for allegedly threatening to send explicit videos to a teen in Elysburg. Walentukonis sits in Northumberland County Jail in lieu of $125,000 bail. His preliminary hearing has yet to be scheduled.
2023 PENNSYLVANIA LAUREL QUEEN CROWNED
This year’s Pennsylvania Laurel Queen is Emma Podobinski, representing Warrior Run High School. Podobinski was crowned queen out of a field of 26 candidates, representing high schools from across the state of Pennsylvania. During her reign as Pennsylvania State Laurel Queen, Ms. Podobinski will represent the Laurel Festival during Wellsboro’s Dickens of Christmas event in December and return to next year’s Laurel festival to crown her successor. As queen, Emma also receives a three thousand dollar academic scholarship. She will attend Houghton College in the Fall. First runner up was Melody Rzeszotarski of Montoursville Area High School and Katherine West representing Towanda was second runner up. They also received a monetary academic scholarship.
SPORTS
MLB
Guardians 12 Diamondbacks 3
Orioles 6 Cubs 3
Braves 14 Rockies 6
Marlins 4 Nationals 2
Red Sox 6 Yankees 2 Game 1
Red Sox 4 Yankees 1 Game 2
Cardinals 8 Mets 7
Angels 5 Royals 2
Reds 9 Astros 7
Tigers 6 Twins 4
Brewers 5 Pirates 2
Rangers 11 Blue Jays 7
Phillies 3 A’s 2
Mariners 5 White Sox 1
Giants 7 Dodgers 3
Padres 5 Rays 4
GOLF
Wyndham Clark from Denver Colorado, held off Rory McIlroy, Scottie, Scheffler and Rickie Fowler in the final round to win Sunday at the 123rd US Open at the Los Angeles Country Club and now ascends from 32nd to 13th in the Official World Golf Ranking.
MLB Draft League
Williamsport Crosscutters 4 Mahoning Valley Scrappers 3
The Cutters are off today but come back Tuesday to Historic Bowman Field to play the Frederick Keys – 6:35 PM first pitch.
BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS JUNE 16, 2023
MOTHER WHO STARVED DAUGHTERS SENTENCED
It’s two consecutive life sentences for the mother of the two young girls who died of starvation and abuse in 2021 and were buried on a Lycoming County property. According to North Central PA dot com, Marie Snyder of Williamsport pleaded guilty to two counts of felony first degree criminal homicide, and also faces charges for theft and fraud for obtaining food stamps and assistance while claiming the girls were in her care. Two trees were planted earlier this year during a ceremony in Brandon Park in honor of Nicole and Jasmine Snyder. Two other women involved in the case, Echo Butler and Michele Butler are scheduled to be sentenced later this year.
COMMISSIONERS APPROVE LOAN FOR MALL PROPERTY
After a presentation yesterday by one of the partners of FAMVEST, LLC, the State College-based developers set to purchase the Lycoming Mall, the Lycoming County Commissioners unanimously approved a 5 million dollar loan toward the purchase. According to the Sun Gazette, the loan will assist with the closing costs of the property in Muncy Township that was sold for 15 million. The closing was rescheduled from earlier in the year to today but has now been shifted to next week. FAMVEST has purchased the former Williamsport Foundry on Maynard Street and plans to develop a three-tenant commercial property across from Penn College.
VOLUNTARY DROUGHT WATCH FOR PENNSYLVANIA
The Department of Environmental Protection is calling for a voluntary drought watch across Pennsylvania after lack of rainfall is bringing concern for the summer. According to the DEP, residents are encouraged to cut non-essential water use by 5 to 10 percent. Examples of that include running the dishwasher and clothes washer less often, shorter showers, or turning off the water when brushing teeth. Eighteen public water suppliers in counties outside Northcentral Pa. are also asking for voluntary water conservation in their communities. DCNR also urges residents to consider the increased fire risk at this time.
LYCOMING COUNTY FAIR COMING IN JULY
The 152nd Lycoming County Fair is on the way, July 12th through July 22nd this year. According to Fair Director, Mike Bieber, there are some new additions that were announced at media day recently, including the outdoor corner and micro-wrestling as well as the chance to see a glimpse of Elvis. Adults still only pay 4 dollars for admission and kids under 12 get in free. Get details at Lycoming fair dot net.
BLOOMSBURG MAN BOUGHT AND SOLD HUMAN REMAINS
A Columbia County man is facing charges after he was found to be involved in buying and selling human organs and other cadaver parts in a case that also implicated the manager of the morgue on the campus of Harvard University. According to the Daily Item, the United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania says 41 year old Jeremy Pauley, of Bloomsburg, was indicted along with five others accused of stealing and selling human remains from 2018 through 2022. Pauley told federal officials that he sold many of the parts he bought from other suspects. Many of the remains were donated for research or parts of cremated bodies that were assumed returned to families. Assistant U.S. Attorney Sean A. Camoni is prosecuting the case.
MAN CONVICTED IN 20 YEAR OLD RAPE CASE
A 44 year old Williamsport man was found guilty of rape last week after being accused of crimes he allegedly committed 20 years ago when he was 14 years old, with girls who were between 4 and 8 and 8 and 12 at the time. According to North Central PA dot com, Erick Johnson was interviewed by Williamsport police and the video was shown in court in which he initially denied the charges, but then said some of the accusations “might have happened”. Johnson will be sentenced for the 10 counts of rape of a person less than 13 in October according to President Judge Nancy Butts.
WILLIAMSPORT FOOD PANTRY HOURS EXTENDED
The American Rescue Workers food pantry has extended their hours into the evening on Mondays to accommodate those who are unable to visit during the day. According to North Central PA dot com, the food pantry is at 337 Bridge street in Williamsport and is available to anyone who is facing food insecurity. New Monday hours for the American Rescue Workers food pantry are 9 til noon and extended afternoon hours from 1 to 6pm. If you have questions about the other hours of the food pantry 5 days a week, or know of anyone in need, go online to arwwilliamsport.org.
JUNETEENTH FESTIVAL SATURDAY IN BRANDON PARK
The third annual Juneteenth festival will be held in Brandon Park this Saturday from 12 to 4 p.m. with a scheduled Freedom Walk starting at Freedom Road to the park at 11 a.m.The public is invited to the festival which will feature activities for children, live entertainment, and about 40 vendors. The event is hosted by the Lycoming Tri-County NAACP . Juneteenth, also known as Freedom Day, is observed on June 19 each year. was recognized as a national holiday in 2021.
SPORTS
MLB
Guardians 8 Padres 6
Orioles 4 Blue Jays 2
Rays 4 A’s 3
Phillies 5 Diamondbacks 4
Tigers 8 Twins 4
Braves 8 Rockies 3
Angels 5 Rangers 3
Cubs 7 Pirates 2
Nationals 4 Astros 1
Dodgers 5 White Sox 4
Golf
Second Round of the 123rd US Open at Los Angeles Country Club begins today. *The First Round made history with a pair of record scores. Rickie Fowler and Xander Schauffele (the “X-man”) both shot a 62.
*Fowler became the first player in U.S. Open history with 10 birdies in a single round. It’s par-70 course.
* In addition to the record scores, they were two 64s two 65s, seven 67s and eleven 68s. No player shot worse than a 79.
MLB Draft League
(4-8) Williamsport Crosscutters are on the road tonight with the (5-7) Mahoning Valley Scrappers 7:05 first pitch
BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS JUNE 15, 2023
INFO ON UNION COUNTY CRASH SOUGHT BY POLICE
Police are seeking information from anyone who witnessed a three vehicle crash on Route 15 South in Union County Tuesday around 3pm. According to State police at Milton, the crash occurred near William Penn Drive in Kelly Township. According to reports the unnamed motorcyclist swerved into the left lane of the interstate and struck a white F250 pickup, losing control and hitting a Jeep Wagoneer. The motorcyclist was injured, but no other injuries were reported. Police are looking for additional details in the crash, if you can provide information, call 570-524-2662.
FIVE RESIGNATIONS AT OLD LYCOMING TOWNSHIP
Officials in Old Lycoming Township have accepted the resignations of five township employees after tensions have risen between the township and a group of citizens who are resisting certain changes there. According to the Sun Gazette, during the meeting Tuesday there was disappointment expressed by some officials that there was disrespect shown to the those employees who worked hard and achieved good growth in Old Lycoming Township, but with their decision to step down leaves crucial gaps. Positions vacated include manager, road department/operating mechanic, sewer department, treasurer and bookkeeper, and sewer enforcement officer. One area the citizens group is dissatisfied with is the recent regionalization of the police department.
EAST BUFFALO TOWNSHIOP CAN NOW HAVE CHICKENS, LIVESTOCK
Residents in zone 1 of East Buffalo Township have been given the preliminary OK by the supervisors to raise chickens or domestic livestock under certain conditions depending on lot sizes and number of animals, and having a manure management plan through the Union County Conservation District. According to the Standard Journal, the supervisors plan to adopt the ordinances at their August meeting.
US ARMY FIELD BAND TO PERFORM IN MILTON THIS MONTH
The world famous United States Army Field Band and Soldiers Chorus will perform a free concert at the Milton Area High School Auditorium on Sunday, June 28th at 7pm, sponsored by the Central Susquehanna Valley Veterans Council. Free tickets are available at the News Item office in Shamokin and the Standard Journal Office in Milton. There is free transportation available from Shamokin by Catawese Coach – meeting in the Shamokin municipal parking lot at 5:45 June 28th. The United States Army Field Band and Soldiers Chorus is considered by music critics to be one of the most versatile and inspiring musical organizations in the world.
WOMAN ARRESTED AFTER THREATENING POLICE
A Coal Township woman was arrested after being combative with police and threatening them after she was allegedly drunk and sitting in the middle of a Dollar Tree store. According to North Central PA dot com, 63 year old Brenda L. Kosmer was handcuffed at the store and police helped her to stand when she became aggressive and they led her to a cruiser where she kicked at the windows and threatened to kill four officers from Shamokin and Coal Township on the scene. Once in custody in her holding cell, Kosmer revealed she had smuggled a lighter in after attempting to set fire to a plastic tray under the toilet. Kosmer was charged with felony aggravated assault, risking a catastrophe and several misdemeanors. She is in Northumberland County Prison with a preliminary hearing June 20th.
NO PROPERTY TAX-HIKE FOR WILLIAMSPORT
For the second consecutive year the Williamsport area school district will not be raising taxes, after the school board approved the zero-increase budget at this week’s meeting. According to the Sun Gazette, 80 percent of the 2023-2024 budget for this fiscal year is attributed to instructional costs and support services – about 118.8 million dollars, with 28 million dollars of income coming from state funding. The Williamsport area school board meets next on July 11th at the District Center on West Fourth Street in Williamsport.
GRANT POSSIBLE TO ADDRESS FLOODING ISSUES AT GRAFIUS RUN
A Washington DC based consulting firm is working with the city of Williamsport to identify potential projects that could utilize a grant to address climate-change-related issues, like flooding at Grafius Run. According to the Sun Gazette, executives from Keller & Partners and city engineer Jon Sander are focusing on a movable trash rack system that can sense when trash and debris need to be moved and potentially can eliminate the damming of water that spills onto the streets and into homes’ basements. The Trash Rack system is estimated to cost 2.4 million dollars.
JUNETEENTH HOLIDAY CLOSES DMV FOR THE WEEKEND
PennDOT has announced they will be closing area offices in observance of the federal holiday Juneteenth. According to the department, all drivers license and photo centers and the full-service center in Selinsgrove will be closed Saturday through Monday. Customers can still obtain forms, publications, and most services online at dmv.pa.gov. June 19th is now a federal holiday that marks the day in 1865 when Union Soldiers arrived in Galveston, Texas, ending the Civil War and freeing enslaved people.
SPORTS
MLB
Padres 5 Guardians 0
Braves 10 Tigers 7 Game 1
Braves 6 Tigers 5 Game 2
Twins 4 Brewers 2
Giants 8 Cardinals 5
Mets 4 Yankees 3 in 10 innings
Blue Jays 3 Orioles 1
Red Sox 6 Rockies 3
Rangers 6 Angels 3
Cubs 10 Pirates 6
Reds 7 Royals 4
Astros 5 Nationals 4
Marlins 4 Mariners 1
Phillies 4 Diamondbacks 3 in 10 innings
Rays 6 A’s 3
White Sox 8 Dodgers 4
MLB Draft League
Wmspt Crosscutters 12 WV Black Bears 10
The Cutters have an off day today but head to Mahoning Valley Friday night to go up against the Scrappers.
GOLF
The 123rd U.S. Open starts today at the Los Angeles Country Club in California.
* The first time the venue will host the championship and the first time in LA since 1948 when the tournament was played at the Riviera Country Club at nearby Pacific Palisades.
* The first major tournament since the PGA Tour, DP World Tour, and the Saudi-backed LIV Golf announced a partnership.
*Scottie Scheffler is ranked 1st as a US Open World Leader, followed by Jon Rahm and Rory McElroy
BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS JUNE 14, 2023
FATAL FIRE IN CLINTON COUNTY
A Clinton County man is dead after a fire at his residence late Saturday night. According to the Sun Gazette, the remains of 69 year old Gregory Martin were found inside the structure on Tobacco Shed Road after fire crews extinguished the blaze that they were called to about 8pm Saturday night in Dunnstable Township. Multiple emergency departments were on the scene including Woolrich, Hand in Hand Lock Haven, Avis, Dunnstown, Beech Creek, Jersey Shore and others. There was no announcement of the cause of the fire, but State fire marshals were on the scene until about 1:30am Sunday.
RIFLE SHOT SENDS YOUNG MAN TO JAIL
A young man from South Williamsport was arraigned in district court after police say he aimed a rifle at a person then raised it in the air and fired one shot in trhe borough on May 21st. According to the Sun Gazette, Jacoby Benway was charged with terroristic threats, reckless endangerment and simple assault. He was initially incarcerated but then released on 15 thousand dollars bail.
PHILLY INTERSTATE COLLAPSE TO BE CLEANED UP TODAY
I-95 repair efforts continue near Philadelphia and a demolition of the collapsed structure is expected to be complete by this morning. According to U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg who was in Philadelphia yesterday Tuesday to visit the site of the collapse and said upfront federal funding has been released to address the immediate effort to reopen the interstate since it’s a key corridor in eastern Pennsylvania. PennDOT says detours are in place to help safely accommodate and redirect the traffic.
GROUP FORMS TO ADVOCATE FOR LOCAL AIRPORT
An advocacy coalition has formed, comprising of concerned stakeholders and a group of airports , RESTORE Air Service. According to RESTORE spokesperson and Williamsport Regional Airport Executive director, Richard Howell says the coalition will be working with Congress and the Biden Administration to promote changes in the 2023 FAA Reauthorization Bill to better support rural and small community airports after Williamsport Regional airport lost daily service since the pandemic. There is legislation addressing the small community air issue, including the bi-partisan “Essential Air Service Reform Act”, introduced by Congressman Dan Meuser and Congressman David Trone, which would re-open the Essential Air Service program for 3 years.
CAR CHASE ENDS IN TASTER FIRE AS SUSPECT TRIES TO FLEE
A 36 year old man from Lycoming County is in custody after a long police pursuit from Muncy to Picture Rocks that occurred June 6th following the suspect driving the wrong way in an alley outside of Muncy. According to the Sun Gazette, police say Kyle Wesley Keiser drove at a high rate of speed through Hughesville, running several stop signs and recklessly driving past other drivers on 220 and eventually driving through fields before bailing out of the car on Main Street in Picture Rocks and running from the car. Police used a Taser to stop Keiser who is now in Lycoming County Prison on a probation violation and charged with felony fleeing, agricultural vandalism and more, in lieu of 15 thousand dollars bail.
RENOVO WOMAN CAUGHT SELLING PRESCRIPTION MEDICINE
An arrest warrant was recently served on a woman from Renovo who allegedly sold prescription medication to an undercover informant June 7th. According to North Central PA dot com, 64 year old Jenean Mace was the subject of an investigation involving the unlawful sale of Suboxone pills between December 2022 and May 2023. Police say Mace was handed a dozen felony counts including possession with the intent to deliver a controlled substance. She is in the Clinton County Correctional facility in lieu of 100 thousand dollars bail.
LEWISBURG FLOOD MEETING LEADS TO PUBLIC PRESENTATION
A public presentation is coming up June 20th to consider the adoption of the Lewisburg Borough Flood Mitigation Study after the final public meeting was held last week where they decided next steps to develop programs and create flood plans. According to the Daily Item, Lewisburg Borough Community Development Grant Manager Shannon Berkey said the final study will provide the Borough a planning tool in the short and long term to address additional needs to continue to make the borough a thriving community despite the threat of flooding. The project is being funded by a $100,000 grant from the PA Department of Community and Economic Development’s Strategic Management Planning Program Grant program.
FIRST LITTLE LEAGUE GAMES SCHEDULED
The first matchups are set for the summer as the Little League World Series arrives in August. According to Little League International the 2023 Little League Baseball World Series starts August 16 through the 27th and will feature 20 teams from around the globe competing through the U.S. and International brackets. The first game is between Europe-Africa and Panama on August 16th in Volunteer Stadium starting at 1pm. Game 2 will be in Lamade and is between Mountain Region vs. Metro Region. Get the full bracket listing at little league dot org.
SPORTS
PIAA HS Softball State Championship Final
Class 2A
Bald Eagle Area 4 South Williamsport 0
NHL Stanley Cup Final Game 5
Golden Knights 9 Panthers 3
Vegas tops Florida and Panthers win the series to capture their first Stanley Cup Title
NBA Finals Game 5
Nuggets 94 Heat 89
Denver wins their first NBA Finals Championship
MLB
Padres 6 Guardians 3
Orioles 11 Blue Jays 6
Rockies 7 Red Sox 6
Yankees 7 Mets 6
Twins 7 Brewers 5
Giants 11 Cardinals 3
Angels 7 Rangers 3
Cubs 11 Pirates 3
Reds 5 Royals 4
Astros 6 Nationals 1
Mariners 9 Marlins 3
Phillies 15 Diamondbacks 3
A’s 2 Rays 1
Dodgers 5 White Sox 1
Braves and Tigers were postponed
MLB Draft League
Monday’s game was canceled…
Last night
WV Black Bears 3 Crosscutters 1
Williamsport tries again tonight at home 6:35pm 1st pitch
Crosscutters get an off-day Thursday