BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS AUGUST 31, 2023

SCHOOL BUS CRASH SENDS FOUR TO AREA HOSPITALS

The crash involving a school bus yesterday along Route 15 at Blind Road in Clinton Township sent four people to the hospital, including three students  from the Montgomery School District.  According to the Sun Gazette, state troopers originally said the victims sustained minor injuries, but the driver of an SUV involved in the crash was admitted to UPMC Williamsport with more serious injuries. The three students were treated for minor injuries.  According to state police, the bus was pulling from Blind Road to head south on Route 15 when it collided with a Toyota Highlander SUV.  There were a total of nine students on the bus when the accident happened.  There were reconstructionists on the scene yesterday after the crash which kept the interstate shut down until about 11:30am.

THIRD SUSPECT ARRESTED IN LOCAL SEX TRAFFICKING CASE

Another person has been charged in a Williamsport sex trafficking case involving minors, which already includes two city residents who are incarcerated and facing trafficking and prostitution charges.  According to the SUN Gazette, Victor Eugene Booth II was taken into custody and is in Lycoming County Prison in lieu of 125 thousand dollars bail along with 36 year old Jennifer Gibbs, of Williamsport, who was also allegedly engaged in grooming young girls.  Police say 39 year old Allen Arthur Frazier, of Williamsport is in state Correctional Institution at Smithfield, Huntingdon after recently being taken into custody for a parole violation.  Williamsport City police are continuing the investigation into the trafficking case, and seek information from the public.

DMV CLOSED FOR LABOR DAY

Just a reminder that all PennDOT driver’s license and photo centers will be closed Saturday, September 2nd, through Monday, September 4th  in observance of the Labor Day holiday.   Customers may still obtain a variety of driver and vehicle products and services, including all forms, publications and driver training manuals, online through PennDOT’s Driver and Vehicle Services at dmv.pa.gov.

BEITERS RECOGNIZED IN NATIONAL MAGAZINE

The management and staff at the 5 locations of Beiter’s Furniture Mattress and Appliance want to thank the community for the years of support after they were recently recognized in a national magazine, earning a ‘Beyond the Top 100’ distinction of furniture businesses in the country.   According to a press release by the store, they were featured in the June 2023 issue of Furniture Today.  Beiter’s flagship store is on Route 15 in South Williamsport and also has locations in Sunbury, Milton, Mansfield and Lock Haven they’ve been in business here since 1966.

WILLIAMSPORT WOMAN WITHDRAWS ABUSE OF CORPSE GUILTY PLEA

A Williamsport woman has withdrawn her guilty plea for the abuse of a corpse charge over failing to report the death of a friend who had overdosed on fentanyl inside an apartment she used in January.  According to PennLive, 34 year old Amber Nicole Burkhart went back to the Blanchard Avenue apartment in Old Lycoming Twp where 56 year old Robert Ulmer had allegedly passed away from the drug use days after police had secured the scene, and was arrested for burglary.  Burkhart could have received a sentence from Judge Ryan Tira after he had revoked her supervised bail for the incident or withdraw her guilty plea which she did.  Tira said in court records that he believes Burkhart needs help for mental health and dependency issues.

FAILURE TO REPORT CHARGES AGAINST TEACHER DROPPED

Charges of failing to report against a Milton Area elementary teacher have been dropped.  According to the Daily Item, 51 year old Jacqueline Martin who is a Baugher Elementary kindergarten teacher, was accused of allegedly failing to report within 48 hours suspected abuse and the presence of drugs in the home of a student.  The Winfield woman had been charged with the misdemeanor in Northumberland County Court and the District Attorney there announced the dismissal of the charges this week.

MIFFLINBURG YMCA FITNESS CENTER TO CLOSE

After stating that the Mifflinburg community needs have changed, executives at the  Greater Susquehanna Valley YMCA said the YMCA Fitness Center on Chestnut Street will be closing permanently and transitioning to programs only through other locations in the borough, which will allow then to focus on specific youth programs which, after an evaluation, is more needed. CEO Bonnie McDowell said members can continue their wellness journeys at the Lewisburg, Milton, or Sunbury locations, and that members will be contacted soon about their memberships.

TRAFFIC SIGNAL GRANT AWARDED TO WILLIAMSPORT

Over 600 thousand dollars has been awarded to the City of Williamsport from PennDOT to support the Little League Boulevard/Hepburn Street and Little League Boulevard/Market Street Traffic Signal Modernization Project. Governor Shapiro recently announced PennDOT’s “Green Light-Go” program of which Williamsport receives a portion of over $35.5 million for traffic signal upgrades.  In a statement, Mayor Derek Slaughter thanked the governor, saying that the new traffic signals increase safety and mobility for residents, improve traffic flow and decrease congestion in the city. The project will be funded through the appropriation for fiscal year 2023-24.

SPORTS

MLB

Guardians 5                   Twins 2
Angels 10                       Phillies 8
White Sox  10                Orioles  5
Cardinals 5                    Padres  4
Cubs 3                           Brewers 2
Blue Jays 7                              Nationals 0
Reds 4                            Giants 1
Astros 7                         Red Sox  4
Mariners 5                               A’s 4
Yankees 6                      Tigers 2
Rays  3                           Marlins 0
Mets 6                            Rangers 5
Pirates 4                         Royals  1
Braves 7                         Rockies 3
Dodgers 7                       Diamondbacks 0



MLB Draft League
State College Spikes 10        Williamsport Crosscutters 3
*Game three on the road again tonight back to State College where the Cutters will try for another win in the series.
*Last two home games of the season are tomorrow night (6:35pm) and a Saturday afternoon game (1:05pm) against Trenton Thunder.

TENNIS
The 143rd US Open continues through Sept. 10 at the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center in New York City.

  • Caroline Wozniacki of Denmark defeated Petra Kvitova  of the Czech Republic 7-5, 7-6 (5) in Arthur Ashe Stadium and will head to the third round against America’s Jennifer Brady tomorrow.
  •  Wozniacki previously won the 2018 Australian Open and reached No. 1 in the rankings during her first stint on tour but left in 2020 after starting a family with NBA player David Lee.
  • 10th seeded  US’s Frances Tiafoe’s took a second-round victory over Sebastian Ofner of Austria 6-3, 6-1, 6-4 last night in just over 1½ hours.

NFL Week 1 Next Thursday
Detroit Lions @ Kansas City Chiefs 8:20pm NBC

BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS AUGUST 30, 2023

MIFFLINBURG MAN CHARGED IN 1986 CASE

A man from Mifflinburg has been charged with obstruction for admitting he lied about information he knew about the disappearance of 2-year-old Corey James Edkin from Union County over 35 years ago.  According to North Central PA dot com, state police say a state grand jury determined that 54 year old  Henry Gust Bush be charged after reviewing the case and that in 2022, new evidence pointed to a family member being involved in the disappearance of the boy who disappeared from his mother’s Second Street bedroom in New Columbia the night of Oct. 13, 1986.

COAL TOWNSHIP MAN SENTENCED FOR INDECENT ASSAULT

A man from Coal Township was sentenced to state prison for 9 to 20 years after being sentenced for felony aggravated indecent assault.  According to the Daily Item, 35 year old Christopher Allen Biddinger, was found guilty by a jury in May after being incarcerated for the past three years for alleged sex crimes that occurred in Delaware Township in Milton. There was a four hour deliberation by the jury in the Northumberland County Courtroom before they convicted Biddinger, who court records say had several outbursts in front of Judge Hugh Jones and was found in contempt of court and escorted from the courtroom before closing arguments

COUNCIL TO TAKE TWO WEEKS TO DECIDE ON CITY HALL BID

After a special public meeting to discuss the bids submitted for Williamsport’s City Hall Building on West Fourth Street, council will take two weeks to decide on whether to accept the  highest bid for the sale of the building or reject the offer altogether.  According to the Sun Gazette, the highest bid was 555 thousand, five hundred, submitted by JBAS Realty of Jessup, whose owner said at the meeting, their plan for the building is retail on the first floor and apartments on the upper floors.  Council has requested Mayor Derek Slaughter draft a resolution on the bid so they can vote to accept or reject the offer at their meeting in two weeks.

LABOR DAY WEEKEND DUI CHECKPOINTS PLANNED

Lycoming County motorists should be aware that Pennsylvania State police will be conducting roving DUI patrols and checkpoints in Lycoming County during the Labor Day weekend.  According to a media release from state police at Milton, troopers will be centering their enforcement campaign around areas that are traditionally known for DUI-related crashes.  Drivers should also remember the “Duty of Driver in Emergency Response Area” law, that requires cars to slow down and move to an open travel lane as they approach an emergency vehicle with flashers activated.

OUT–OF-CONTROL PATIENT AT UPMC ARRESTED

Williamsport police were called to UPMC Williamsport Divine Providence Hospital for an out-of-control patient who was threatening nurses and police staff last month.  According to North Central PA dot com, 18 year old Ryan Lucio Hernandez of Muncy allegedly forced his way into a nurses station and charged at hospital police when they responded to the scene and was handcuffed to a chair before city police arrived. According to court records, Hernandez was charged with harassment and aggravated and simple assault, was unable to post 15 thousand dollars bail and remains in Lycoming County Prison.

NEW VOTING LOCATIONS IN JERSEY SHORE

The Jersey Shore Borough has two new 3rd & 4th ward polling places pending approval by the Lycoming County Board of Elections so they can be accessible and ADA compliant.  According to the SUN Gazette, the tentative locations for the Third ward will be at the Jersey Shore Area School District Administration Building on 175 A&P Drive. The Fourth ward will vote at the Jersey Shore Borough Building at 232 Smith St.  The First United Methodist Church in Muncy and the Muncy Historical Society building are currently the polling places for the first and second precincts.

ENROLLMENT UP AT COMMONWEALTH UNIVERSITY

First year undergraduate enrollment is up at Commonwealth University of Pennsylvania following the integration of Bloomsburg, Lock Haven, and Mansfield universities there.  Enrollment has gone up across the university by more than 10% since last fall, and graduate enrollment up more than 25%. According to a statement from the president of Commonwealth University, the incoming first-year class includes students from throughout Pennsylvania as well as students from as far away as Arizona, Oregon and Washington.  A complete census of fall enrollment numbers will be shared by Pennsylvania’s State System of Higher Education (PASSHE) in the coming weeks.

CANDLELIGHT VIGIL FOR SUICIDE VICTIMS

There will be a candlelight vigil hosted by the Behavioral Health team at UPMC Williamsport is hosting for community members wishing to honor those affected by suicide on Friday, Sept. 8, on UPMC Williamsport’s front lawn, at  High St., Williamsport.  According to a press release, September is National Suicide Prevention Month, and organizers hope the vigil gives everyone who wants to a chance to pay homage to those lost to suicide. If you or a loved one is considering suicide, dial 988 to reach the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. 

SPORTS

MLB
Guardians   4      Twins 2
Phillies 12           Angels7
Yankees 4           Tigers 2
Rays  11              Marlins 2
Orioles 9             White Sox  3
Nationals 5         Blue Jays 4
Astros 6               Red Sox 2
Rangers 2  Mets 1
Cardinals 6         Padres 5
Cubs 1                 Brewers 0
Pirates 6              Royals 3
Braves  3             Rockies  1
A’s  3                   Mariners 1
Giants 6               Reds 1
Dodgers 9           Diamondbacks 1

MLB Draft League
Williamsport Crosscutters 5          State College Spikes 4
* Williamsport Crosscutters back tonight hosting the State College Spikes with a 6:35pm first pitch at Historic Bowman Field, and if the Cutters win the game tonight everyone in attendance gets a free ticket voucher to the season finale game on September 2!
*Last two home games of the season are Friday night (6:35pm) and a Saturday afternoon game (1:05pm) against Trenton Thunder.

TENNIS
The 143rd US Open continues through Sept. 10 at the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center in New York City.
*Defending champion Spain’s Carlos Alcaraz cruised into the second round of the US Open yesterday after his opponent, Dominik Koepfer of Germany, retired because of an injury during their prime-time match in Arthur Ashe Stadium.

*Alcaraz will play Lloyd Harris of South Africa in the second round.

* Venus Williams was eliminated 6-1, 6-1 by Belgian qualifier Greet Minnen in the first round.

BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS AUGUST 29, 2023

FATAL MOTORCYCLE ACCIDENT NEAR DEWART

A man from Montgomery lost his life Friday after his motorcycle collided with a vehicle near Dewart.  According to the Sun Gazette, the Northumberland County Coroner reported that 56 year old Kenneth Feaster was the victim in the fatal crash just before 3pm after his motorcycle and a car driven by 87 year old Shirley Grady of Watsontown collided at the intersection of Route 405 and True Blue Road.  Feaster was not wearing a helmet.  Grady had no injuries, but her passenger, 55 year old Lori Schaeffer was treated at the scene by first responders from Warrior Run Area Fire Department and EMS.

PARKING METER RATE INCREASE IN CITY

Parking meter rates in the City of Williamsport are going up. According to the Sun Gazette, Williamsport Parking Authority will adjust the on-street meter rates from 30 minutes for a quarter to 20 minutes, 12 minutes for a dime to 8 and 6  minutes for a nickel to 4, to take effect on September 5th.  On street meter rates in the City have not gone up in over 15 years, and according to the parking authority, the rate increase should improve turnover at street meters which can provide more parking opportunities for patrons for downtown businesses.

RENOVATIONS SLATED FOR SELINSGROVE LICENSE CENTER

The Selinsgrove Driver License Center, located along Route 522, will be closed for about three months during renovations, according to state Rep. David Rowe, of District 85.  The construction schedule and closure is set to begin on Monday, Sept. 11, and run through Monday, Dec. 4. The center is tentatively scheduled to reopen on Tuesday, Dec. 5.   A photo-only license center remains open in Lewisburg, and other full-service driver license centers are located in Shamokin, Elizabethville and Lewistown.

GOVERNOR SHAPIRO TAKES IN LITTLE LEAGUE CHAMPIONSHIP

The Governor of Pennsylvania came to Sunday’s Championship Little League game and was joined by now 22 year old Mo’ne Ikea Davis who was the first girl to earn a win and to throw a shutout in Little League World Series history.  According to the Sun Gazette, during a statement, Governor Josh Shapiro recognized Steve Keener, president and CEO of Little League Baseball and the whole LL team for doing a great job and keeping the community engaged, as well as remarking that Davis is a Pennsylvania woman and leader who continues to inspire a generation of young athletes.  She was the first Little League baseball player to appear on the cover of Sports Illustrated as a Little Leaguer.

BICYCLIST HURT IN BUS ACCIDENT

Emergency responders treated a bicyclist and transported him to the hospital after he was allegedly hit by a bus as it was making a right turn onto Williams Street near the city terminal.  According to North Central PA dot com, witnesses who were involved say there were arguments going on inside the bus just before the accident happened, and that the man who was injured on his bike was riding through the crosswalk.  Police say they dispatched another ambulance and EMTs to treat any passengers on the bus, but there were no reports of any major injuries during the low-speed accident.

PA STATE TROOPER CADETS NO LONGER REQUIRE COLLEGE CREDITS

The requirement for potential State Troopers to have an Associate’s Degree or 60 college credit hours as a cadet applicant has been dropped,  as hundreds of new troopers are about to be hired. According to a press conference at the State Police Academy, the latest class of cadets, which graduated last week, saw only 50 join PA State Police, noting that police departments across the country, state and municipal, are struggling to fill officer openings. The 2024 state budget includes funding to hire up to 384 new troopers this fiscal year, with a starting salary for troopers at just over $66 thousand per year plus benefits.

FARMLAND PRESERVED THANKS TO CONSERVATION EASEMENTS

The state Agricultural Land Preservation Board has announced the recent approval of the purchase of conservation easements which will protect additional acres of farmland in the 23rd Senatorial District.  According to Senator Gene Yaw, Three local crop and livestock operations were part of 2,645 total acres across the state and 35 farms in 18 counties that were approved for preservation, one each on Wolf, Munch and Kelly townships. The Pennsylvania Agricultural Conservation Easement Purchase Program, as it is formally known, is dedicated to slowing the loss of prime farmland to non-agricultural uses. To learn more visit  agriculture.pa.gov.

WILLIAMSPORT PUBLIC MEETING ON CITY HALL BIDS

There will be a public meeting this evening to share information about the bids received for the City Hall building  at 245 W. Fourth St.in the City of Williamsport.  According to the Sun Gazette, there were three bids received for the building and Mayor Slaughter says each are under discussion as they are reviewed with Fish Commercial Group.  The public meeting about the historic building that has been vacant for two years will be at the Trade and Transit II building tonight at 7pm.

SPORTS

MLB
Twins 10             Guardians 6
Phillies 6             Angels 4
Yankees 4           Tigers 1
Orioles 9             White Sox  0
Blue Jays 6         Nationals 3
Astros 13            Red Sox  5
Rangers 4  Mets 3
Padres 4              Cardinals 1
Brewers 6            Cubs 2
Pirates 5              Royals 0
Braves 14            Rockies 4
Mariners 7          A’s 0
Giants 4              Reds 1
Dodgers 7           Diamondbacks  4

MLB Draft League
Williamsport Crosscutters on the road tonight for the first in a three game series with State College Spikes.  They’re back tomorrow night for one game at Historic Bowman Field 6:35pm first pitch.
*Last two home games of the season are this weekend at Muncy Bank Ballpark  – Friday night (6:35pm)  and a Saturday afternoon game (1:05pm) against Trenton Thunder.

TENNIS
The 143rd US Open continues through Sept. 10 at the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center in New York City.

* Coco Gauff beat German qualifier Laura Siegemund 3-6, 6-2, 6-4 to  reach the second round at Flushing Meadows.

*Novak Djokovic, who is seeking his 24th major championship, made a winning return last night after missing the tournament last year, rolling to a 6-0, 6-2, 6-3 victory over Alexandre Muller .

BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS AUGUST 24, 2023

THREE JUVENILES ARRESTED FOR THEFTS IN MIFFLINBURG

The Mifflinburg police department has arrested three juveniles they say broke into cars throughout the borough overnight on August 19th.  According to police reports, the male suspects who are ages 11, 14 and 16, were captured on video surveillance cameras and sought by police after reports of theft of property from local cars and residential porches.  Mifflinburg officers apprehended the suspects after midnight August 20th in the area of Community park.  The teens were charged with theft from a motor vehicle, loitering and prowling, and will face other charges from the Union County Juvenile Probation department.  They were released to the custody of their guardians.  Restitution has not yet been determined.

JERSEY SHORE ATHLETIC DIRECTOR DISMISSED

After a 5 hour hearing Tuesday, the dismissal of Jersey Shore’s Athletic Director, Serena Henry will stand, pending the possibility of an appeal.  According to the Sun Gazette, the school board held the public hearing at Henry’s request and upheld their prior decision of dismissal in light of the evidence they say shows multiple incidents of incompetence according to Section 514 of the Pennsylvania Public School Code; including purchasing of equipment, scheduling transportation and communicating with colleagues in a timely manner.  Henry’s supporters were at the hearing and spoke in her favor as athletic director . Henry says she was “targeted” by the administration and held to standards that other employees were not.

VAPE DETECTION FOR LEWISBURG SCHOOLS
There are vape detection systems in place at Lewisburg Area School District as students come back to class this week.  According to the Daily Item, around August 14th the district installed the Halo vape detection systems in the high school and middle school for a total cost of $66,665.59 which was funded by capital project funds.  Other schools in the region are also considering vape detectors.  Shikellamy school district was recently awarded a $47,680 Safe Schools Targeted Grant they plan to use to install the detectors in high school and middle school bathrooms.

VINTAGE TROLLEY FROM KNOEBELS HAS A NEW HOME

A 1906 vintage trolley car used by guests for over 80 years at Knoebles amusement resort was delivered to the Pennsylvania Trolley Museum last Wednesday for their use.  According to the Daily Item, the rare, semi-convertible #33 streetcar was built by J.G. Brill for the Shamokin & Mt Carmel Electric Railway Company which served the anthracite coal communities in Northumberland County before it was used as a cottage and later for storages and other uses at Knoebels beginning in 1938.  The Pennsylvania Trolley Museum did not announce their immediate plans for the vintage trolley.

COUPLE BREAKS IN TO EX’S HOME, STEALS BLANK CHECKS

A warrant is out for the arrest of a woman from Milton and an Elmira New York man who were charged with felony burglary trespass and forgery after they broke into the woman’s ex-boyfriend’s Williamsport home and stole money and blank checks. According to North Central PA dot com,21 year old Adrianna Yazmine Caddell, and 19 year old Benjamin David White, were seen  leaving Justin Jackson’s home on Aberdeen Road on July 31 as he was coming back home. Jackson discovered a break-in and called police.  They say the couple cashed forged checks amounting to hundreds of dollars. Charges against Caddell and White are filed at the office of District Judge Christian D. Frey. 

THREE INJURED IN I-80 ACCIDENT SUNDAY

Three people from Ohio were injured in a crash along I-80 Sunday allegedly caused by a man from Dallas who veered out of his lane, striking another car.  According to State Police in Milton, 49 year-old Michael Cole of Dallas, drifted across the line around mile marker 195 on I-80 West before striking the rear of the car driven by 31year-old Crysta Rolling of Ohio, who lost control of her car and struck a tree.  Rolling and two passengers, who were all wearing seatbelts, were taken to Geisinger for treatment, but there is no information released about their condition today.  Cole was not injured, but was cited with a traffic violation.

ANIMAL RESCUE OWNER CITED FOR NEGLECT

The owner of an animal rescue facility has been charged with neglect after a humane society police officer inspected the premises and found larges dogs living in unsanitary conditions and in need of veterinary care.  According to the Daily Item, a complaint was received against Ann Gibbs, the owner of K9 Hero Haven in Herndon, by the state Bureau of Dog Law Warden who inspected the facility in June.  During a follow- up inspection in August, the animals were still in unsatisfactory conditions.  Gibbs was charged with misdemeanor neglect of multiple dogs.  Her preliminary hearing is October 3rd.

WELLSBORO CAR RALLY IS ON NEXT MONTH

The 46th Annual Waste Management STPR Super Regional Car Rally is coming back to Tioga and Potter Counties September 15th and 16th.  According to North Central PA dot com, the annual event features two days of racing on forest roads in the region and two Friday stages on Waste Management, Inc. property, near Wellsboro – those point scores will count towards the American Rally Association East Regional Championship series. Each STPR rally team has a driver and co-driver, or navigator, who only have one chance to review the course at public speed before the race.  Registration is open until September 14th.

SPORTS

MLB

Cardinals 6          Pirates 4
Cubs 6                  Tigers 4
Brewers 8             Twins 7
White Sox 5         Mariners 4
Royals 4               A’s 0
Giants 8                Phillies 6
Reds 9                  Angels 4 Game 1
Reds 7                  Angels 3 Game 2
Padres 4               Marlins 0
Rays 6                  Rockies 5
Orioles 7              Blue Jays 0
Yankees 9           Nationals 1
Braves 7               Mets 0
Red Sox 7            Astros 5
Dodgers (3) and Guardians (1)
suspended in the 2nd  due to rain and will resume today at noon.

MLB Draft League
*Williamsport Crosscutters suffered another loss to the State College Spikes on the road last night 8-7.
*Williamsport Crosscutters return home tonight and will attempt to break the Spikes’ sweep of the series at Historic Bowman Field – 6:35 first pitch.
Little League 2023 World Series
Game 29 – Chinese Taipei (Asia-Pacific) 9               Curacao (Caribbean) 1
Game 30 – Needville TX (Southwest) 1                    Seattle WA (Northwest) 0
Game 31 – Mexico 2    Japan 0
Game 32 –  ElSegundo CA (West) 5                          Nolensville TN (Southeast) 3
Little League Today
Game 33 International Semi-Final
Curacao (Caribbean) vs Tijuana Mexico 3pm Lamade
T-Mobile Little League Home Run Derby 5pm Volunteer
Game 34 US Semi-Final
Seattle, WA (Northwest) vs ElSegundo, CA (West) 7pm Lamade
LL Saturday
Challenger Exhibition Game (Presented by Eggland’s Best) 10:30am Volunteer
Challenger of Lancaster County LL vs New York Division 8 LL Challenger Division from Syracuse
NFL PreSeason Tonight
Steelers vs Falcons 7:30pm – Atlanta
Colts vs Eagles 8pm – Philadelphia

BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS AUGUST 23, 2023

YOUNG DRIVER IDENTIFIED AFTER ROUTE 15 CRASH

A Williamsport man was involved in a fatal crash Saturday along Route 15 in Clinton Township.  According to the Lycoming County Coroner, 21 year old Tyjair Barbee was traveling north on 15 when he lost control of the vehicle and skidded across the southbound lanes of travel, causing him to overturn and hit a tree.  Officials say Barbee was traveling too fast and was not wearing a seatbelt, and died of blunt force trauma after being partially ejected from the car.  Clinton and Washington Township officials responded to the accident and extricated the man from the car.  Pennsylvania State Police are continuing an investigation.

BLIND PEDESTRIAN HIT AND RUN

A blind pedestrian was hit by a car Saturday and police are asking the public for help identifying the hit and run suspect.  According to North Central PA dot com, Milton State Police  are investigating the incident in which 41 year old Lavette Lewis of Lewisburg was walking along the west side fog line of JPM Road with her guide stick and was struck by car.  Due to her disability, Lewis did not see the driver and no witnesses were at the scene.  Contact Milton State police if you have information about the accident.  

ASHKAR ELEMENTARY TO OPEN THURSDAY

The air quality at Ashkar Elementary has passed inspection and classes will begin there on time when the school opens tomorrow.  According to Superintendent, Dr. Mark Stamm, air quality test results  in the school building last week have returned showing reduction in the mold spores that were discovered there and cleaned by a specialized contractor last week.  In a letter to district families, Dr. Stamm said they are working on a permanent solution to address the air quality and groundwater management challenges at the school.  No other East Lycoming Schools in the district were affected.

SECOND PUZZLE IN CLINTON COUNTY SERIES FOR SALE

The second puzzle in the annual “Clinton County Landmarks” Puzzle Series is now available for those who pre-ordered and also for those who are interested in purchasing it now.  According to the Lock Haven Express, the Clinton County Visitors Bureau has made available the 550-piece, 18×24-inch jigsaw puzzle featuring a winter scene of the Logan Mills Covered Bridge .  They are available at the Clinton County Economic Partnership/Visitors Bureau office at 212 N. Jay St., Lock Haven, weekdays between 9 a.m. and 3 p.m.  The image on the puzzle was captured by George Masden of Mackeyville with the box designed by Steve Getz.  Get information at 570-748-5782

FATAL BOATING ACCIDENT IN LOGANTON

A Loganton family has lost two members to drowning after a boat mishap while they were fishing on Saturday.  According to North Central PA dot com, Pennsylvania State Police responded to a pond at the property of Samuel Z and Lydia B Zook for a boat accident.  Police say an adult male and his son, a juvenile male, drowned after their fishing boat capsized.  Two other of the man’s minor children who were also on the boat, swam to shore of the pond located on the 116 acre property along West Valley Road in Logan Township. 

FIRE DISPLACES FOUR FAMILIES

A two-alarm blaze which overtook a duplex home, closed Route 61 for several hours and left four families homeless on Saturday afternoon near the Hamilton underpass in Sunbury. The fire, which drew multiple fire crews was on State Street in Upper Augusta Township, Northumberland County. The Penitent Souls Motorcycle Club reached out to the fire victims this week, including several children, who lost everything, and gave them gift certificates and gift cards as well as food, clothing and school supplies that they will need in the next few weeks. The fire remains under investigation.

VETTED NURSES TO BE AUTHORIZED TO WORK IN PA

Registered Nurses and Licensed Practical Nurses who have a multi-state license will now be able to practice in Pennsylvania after an announcement yesterday from the Shapiro Administration.  According to North Central PA dot com, on September 5th RNs and LPNs with an NLC or Nurse Licensure Compact which recognizes nurses in the agreement among 41 states and territories.  This is a move by state to expand the pool of recruits for health care facilities and help alleviate burdens on overworked nursing staffs, providing hospitals with access to an approved, vetted group of licensed RNs and LPNs.

SPCA WAIVING FEES THIS SATURDAY IN SOME LOCATIONS

Adoption fees for the Pennsylvania SPCA will be waived this weekend at several locations throughout the state.  According to North Central PA dot com, the SPCA says many shelters are at capacity across the state and will offer the no fee day Saturday with all normal policies and adoption procedures followed.  The shelter at Danville is open noon until 6pm.  Some other fees for accessories and cardboard carriers may apply.  Get details on the adoption process at  pspca.org

SPORTS

MLB

Guardians 8         Dodgers 3
Tigers 8                Cubs 6
Rays 12                Rockies 4
Phillies 4              Giants 3
Blue Jays 6                    Orioles 3
Nationals 2                    Yankees 1
Pirates 6               Cardinals 3
Braves 3               Mets 2
Astros 7               Red Sox 3
Brewers 7             Twins 3
Mariners 6                     White Sox 3
Reds 4                  Angels 3
A’s 5                     Royals 4
Diamondbacks 6  Rangers 3
Marlins 3              Padres 0
Little League World Series
Game 25 – Mexico 3               Venezuela 1
Game 26 – Nolensville, TN (Southeast) 2            Henderson, Nevada (Mountain) 1
Game 27 – Japan 5                 Panama 4
Game 28 – El Segundo, CA (West) 9                   Smithfield, RI (Metro) 3
Little League Today
Game 29 – Chinese Taipei (Asia-Pacific) vs Curacao (Caribbean)  1pm Volunteer
Game 30 – Needville, TX (Southwest) vs Seattle, WA (Northwest) 3pm Lamade
Game 31 – Japan vs Mexico 5pm Volunteer
Game 32 – Nolensville, TN (Southeast) vs ElSegundo, CA (West) 7pm Lamade

MLB Draft League
Williamsport Crosscutters suffered a 3-3 sudden death loss to the State College Spikes on the road last night. With last night’s loss to the Spikes and Mahoning Valley’s win over Frederick, Williamsport falls to 15-21 and drops to 6th place in the MLB Draft League Second Half, a half-game behind the 5th place Scrappers.

Williamsport Crosscutters are in State College one more night tonight then return home tomorrow for the 3rd game in the series with the Spikes at Historic Bowman Field – 6:35 first pitch.

NFL PreSeason Tomorrow
Steelers vs Falcons 7:30pm – Atlanta
Colts vs Eagles 8pm – Philadelphia

BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS AUGUST 22, 2023

WHEREABOUTS OF CUBAN COACH STILL UNCLEAR

The investigation continues into the Cuban Little League Coach who disappeared from the International Grove complex last Saturday night.  According to the Sun Gazette, Jose Perez was seen in surveillance video getting into a car driven by someone else along Route 15 outside the Little League Complex around 11pm August 19th.  According to Penn Live, reports from an entrepreneurial magazine say Perez has been spotted in Barcelona, Spain, and officials surmise that Perez may be seeking to change his visa status. The relationship with the Cuban Baseball Foundation and Little League International remains strong, there was an agreement recently signed to work together through 2025.

OVERTURNED TRUCK LEADS TO DRUG ARREST

Police charged a Michigan truck driver for drug after he overturned his rig Saturday morning at the Route 973 off ramp and they found suspected methamphetamine in the vehicle.  According to the Sun Gazette, police went into the cab of the truck driven by 44 year old Deangelo Colen who overturned on the west off-ramp of Route 15 South.  When police went to obtain the registration and insurance information, a white crystal substance was seen in the console, after which a search warrant was obtained.  Lycoming Regional Police allegedly found four bags of the drug and charged Colen with possession of a controlled substance and  summary traffic violations after he was discharged from UPMC Williamsport for minor injuries. He is in Lycoming County prison in lieu of bail.

MOLD COULD DELAY CLASSES AT ASHKAR

Mold has been detected in the Ashkar Elementary School after storms brought about a few leaks in the building, and classes may be postponed while they await test results from a recent clean-up.  According to the Sun Gazette, Superintendent Dr. Mark Stamm said in a letter to parents that if test results on mold spore levels are not back by Thursday, Ashkar Elementary families may have to delay returning to school until the air quality results are satisfactory.  No other schools in the East Lycoming School district are affected.  The Ashkar PTA Welcome Back Night has been rescheduled to Monday, August 28th and all teacher in-service activities scheduled for this week have been moved to the high school.

WELLSBORO TO HOLD FLY-IN BREAKFAST

The Labor Day weekend Fly-in Breakfast will be held September 3rd in Delmar Township, Tioga County.  According to the Sun Gazette, the Canyon Pilots Association annual event will be at the corporate hangar at the Grand Canyon Regional Airport 112 Runway Road in Wellsboro.  The public can watch pilots arrive for the breakfast and talk to them about their planes.  Proceeds from the breakfast are used to help support youth over 16 who are interested in aviation.  The fly-in will feature various full-size aircraft, weather permitting, airplane rides for a fee and a raffle for helicopter rides.  Email [email protected] for information.

MAN INJURED IN WILLIAMSPORT SHOOTING

A man was treated for a non-life-threatening gunshot wound Friday after Williamsport police say shots were fired near the 800 block of High Street at about 1:45am. According to the Sun Gazette, an unidentified male victim was privately transported to the hospital before police arrived at the call location and processed evidence found there.  Police are asking the public for help in identifying the suspect and are looking for more information surrounding the incident, email [email protected].

TROOPER WHO ALLEGEDLY CAUSED CRASH TURNS HIMSELF IN

The off-duty state trooper who allegedly caused a fatal crash that killed a Tioga County teacher February 11th, has turned himself in and was charged with vehicular homicide by PA Attorney General Michelle Henry.  According to the Sun Gazette, investigators say Michael J. Brown was traveling west in a Jeep Grand Cherokee on Route 6 in Sullivan Township when he allegedly attempted to pass a vehicle by crossing the double yellow line, and struck an oncoming vehicle at the crest of a hill.  Forty seven year old Christine Woodward, a 15 year teacher from Troy area Schools was the victim in the crash.  Authorities say Brown also suffered significant injuries and was hospitalized in Sayre after the crash.  His bail was set at 50 thousand dollars.

ONE LEGAL CLAIM AGAINST LITTLE LEAGUE DROPPED

One of the legal claims in the lawsuit brought about by the family of a Little League baseball player from Utah who fell from a bunk bed last year during the Little League World series against Little League and John Savoy and Son Inc. of Montoursville, was dismissed in a Philadelphia common pleas courtroom last week.  According to Penn Live, Judge Linda A. Carpenter dismissed amended claims of negligent infliction of emotional distress brought about by the father of the player who fell, saying he did not see the accident occur. No word from the judge on the request to dismiss the suit brought on by Little League and Savoy who requested to move the case to Lycoming County where the accident happened.  After the incident in 2022, all upper bunks in Little league dorms were moved to the floor.

GRANT TO HELP FIGHT HOMELESSNESS IN UNION/SNYDER COUNTIES

A grant has been awarded to the Union-Snyder Community Action Agency (CAA) to assist families facing immediate housing issues.  According to the Standard Journal, 20 thousand dollars was provided by the Federal Home Loan Bank of Pittsburgh and PA Housing Finance Agency through Home4Good Homeless Initiative, to provide diversion strategies through community partners for families instead of them being forced to use emergency housing or homeless shelters which can cause immediate trauma in some cases.  The CAA’s mission is to reduce poverty in Union & Snyder Counties through self-sufficiency initiatives.

SPORTS

MLB
Cubs 7                 Tigers 6
Phillies 10           Giants 4
Pirates 11            Cardinals 1
Mets 10               Braves 4
Astros 9               Red Sox  4
Mariners 14        White Sox 2
A’s 6                    Royals 4
D’backs 4            Rangers 3
Padres 6              Marlins 2
Reds & Angels postponed for wet grounds in Anaheim.

2023 Little League World Series
Game 21 – Curacao (Caribbean) 2                   Venezuela (Latin America) 1
Game 22 – Seattle WA (Northwest) 6              Nolensville TN (Southeast) 2
Game 23 – Chinese Taipei (Asia-Pacific) 10       Tokyo (Japan) 0
Game 24 – Needville TX (Southwest) 3        ElSegundo CA (West) 1
Little League Today
Game 25 Mexico vs Venezuela (Latin America) 1pm Volunteer
Game 26 Nolensville TN (Southeast) vs Henderson NV (Mountain) 3pm Lamade
Game 27 Tokyo (Japan) vs Panama 5pm Volunteer
Game 28 El Segundo, CA 9West) vs Smithfield RI (Metro) 7pm Lamade

MLB Draft League
Williamsport Crosscutters are in State College tonight and tomorrow, then return home Thursday night for the 3rd game in the series with the Spikes at Historic Bowman Field – 6:35 first pitch.

NFL PreSeason Monday Night Football
Commanders   29         Ravens  28

BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS AUGUST 21, 2023

CUBA LITTLE LEAGUE COACH UNACCOUNTED FOR

One of three coaches in Williamsport with the Bayamo Cuba Little League Team remains unaccounted for this morning after Little League International notified authorities that he never returned to International Grove late Saturday night.  According to Penn Live, there’s no word on whether authorities believe Jose Perez defected to the United States.  Cuba, who’s experiencing a trip to the Little League OWrld Series for the first time, had a 3-2 loss to Panama on Sunday which eliminated them from title contention. An investigation continues into the whereabouts of Perez.

FAMILY ESCAPES APARTMENT FIRE

Smoke alarms saved the lives of three Williamsport residents Saturday. According to the Sun Gazette, Robert Steppe and two other family members woke up to smoke alarms at 1:15 am and quickly escaped through the front door of the apartment at the 300 block of Campbell St. The fire progressed quickly to a four alarm blaze, with multiple fire companies battling the fire which was brought under control after 3am.  Williamsport Fire Chief Sam Aungst reported no injuries and the three displaced residents were being assisted by the local chapter of the American Red Cross.  The fire remains under investigation.

ROUTE 220 BRIDGE PROJECT CONTINUES

Commuters on Route 220 north and southbound in Woodward Township,  are advised that a bridge replacement and rehabilitation project continues this week.  All traffic will be traveling on the southbound side of the highway with the moveable barrier system in place daily opening two lanes of travel northbound for the morning and two lanes southbound for the afternoon. During these times, the opposing direction of traffic will be restricted to one lane. Watch forintermittent delays up to 15 minutes late this Thursday morning, August 24, on the Route 220 northbound off ramp to Fourth Street when concrete delivery and placement will cause slowdowns. 

WOOLRICH FACTORY HAS NEW OWNER

The Woolrich Woolen main manufacturing building located on Mill Street in Woolrich has a new owner. According to the Record online, a deed for a $1.15 million sale was recorded in the Clinton County Courthouse this past week and the purchaser was named as Crown Mill Holdings LLC, of Bayonne, NJ. At this time, there is no additional information on the plans for the 430,000 square feet structure, which has been sitting empty for five years. However, Mike Flanagan, President/CEO of the Clinton County Economic Partnership, said he was hopeful something positive may result from the sale.

VICTIM OF THURSDAY SHOOTING IDENTIFIED

The victim of the fatal shooting Thursday inside the lobby of the Cable Services Company on Marydale Ave. in Old Lycoming Township has been identified by Lycoming County Coroner Charles E. Kiessling Jr. According to the Sun Gazette,  69-year-old John Roskowski, of Loyalsock Township, died of a gunshot wound. Kiessling also reported the death has been ruled a homicide. Roskowski was rushed to UPMC Williamsport Thursday after the shooting, where he was pronounced dead on arrival. The incident remains under investigation and no charges have been filed by the Lycoming County District Attorney’s Office at this time.

DANVILLE MAN KICKS OFFICERS

Felony aggravated assault in one of many charges filed against a Danville man after he is reported to have kicked two police officers. According to the Daily Item, Ballan Whitman of Front Street, Danville allegedly assaulted the officers on Saturday when the officers responded to a suspicious person then to a man with a knife call. Mahoning Township Police responded to assist. In addition to kicking police, Whitman fought and bit a security guard at the hospital.  Whitman is being held in Montour County Prison in lieu of $10,000 bail with a preliminary hearing on August 29th.

THREE NEW YORKERS ARRESTED FOR SCAMMING

Two sets of scammers from New York have been caught after attempting to defraud older Pennsylvanians.  According to the Attorney General Michelle Henry, two individuals from the Bronx were charged with corruption and theft charges in one case and are being held on 75 thousand dollars bail each.  Qiang Li of Rye New York is also facing criminal conspiracy charges including unlawful use of a computer.   Pennsylvanians who believe they have been victims of a scam should file a complaint with the Office of Attorney General’s Bureau of Consumer Protection ( by calling 800-441-2555 or emailing [email protected])

NEW 911 UPGRADES ON THE WAY

Next Generation 911, a program which aids dispatchers to locate callers, while avoiding misrouted calls, network issues and overload, is coming to Central Susquehanna Regional 911. According to the Daily Item, Regional, which covers Union and Snyder counties, says Next Generation 911 is a digital fiber optic network which can improve 911 services. Included in the upgrade is text to 911 and eventually the ability to share photos, videos and other helpful details to 911 dispatchers.

SPORTS

MLB

Tigers 4           Guardians 1
Mariners 7       Astros 6
Red Sox 6        Yankees 5
Giants 4                     Braves 3
Blue Jays 10    Reds 3
Twins 2           Pirates 0
Cardinals 7      Mets 3
Cubs 4             Royals 3
Brewers 6         Rangers 2
White Sox 10    Rockies  5
Orioles 12        A’s 1
Nationals 4      Phillies 3 (Little League Classic in Williamsport)


Little League World Series
Sunday
Game 17 – Panama 3                             Cuba 2
Game 18 – Smithfield, RI (Metro) 7                Media, PA (Mid-Atlantic) 2
Game 19 – Mexico 10                  Canada 1
Game 20 – Henderson NV (Mountain) 7                  Fargo, ND (Midwest)1
Today Games
Game 21 – Curacao (Caribbean) vs Venezuela (Latin America) 1pm Volunteer
Game 22 – Seattle (Northwest) vs Nolensville TN (Southeast) 3pm Lamade
Game 23 – Tokyo (Japan) vs Chinese Taipei (Asia –Pacific) 5pm Volunteer
Game 24 – Needville TX (Southwest) vs  El Segundo CA (West) 7pm Lamade

MLB Draft League
Williamsport Crosscutters 6                  Mahoning Valley Scrappers 4
Cutters are back at Historic Bowman Field this coming Thursday, August 24th to host the State College Spikes
MLB Draft League News
Former Crosscutters were with the Phillies during the Little League Classic Sunday night….
*    Alec Bohm, a 2018 member of the Williamsport Crosscutters, went 1-4 with a single in the ninth inning and scored the first of three Phillies runs in the ninth inning. He also suffered one strikeout at the plate.
* Bryson Stott, a 2019 member of the Williamsport Crosscutters, went 0-3 with a walk in his return to Williamsport.

NASCAR
William Byron dominated at Watkins Glen International yesterday. Denny Hamlin was second –  nearly 3 seconds back. Christopher Bell was third, followed by AJ Allmendinger and Ty Gibbs.

BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS AUGUST 17, 2023

POLICE LOOK FOR CAR BREAK-IN SUSPECTS

Police in Pine Creek Township are reporting numerous overnight break-ins to cars on private property this week.  According to North Central Pa dot com, Crimewatch reports that thefts that involved removing currency from unlocked parked cars happened in residential areas of Avis Borough, Wayne Township, Pine Creek Township, and Dunnstable Township.  If you heard or saw anything suspicious, or have surveillance video from August 14th or 15th overnight that might help police find the suspects, email police @ pinecreekpd.org.  Residents are reminded to lock their cars when valuables like money, wallets and electronics are inside the vehicle.

WATSONTOWN MAN CHARGED WITH CHILD PORNOGRAPHY

A Watsontown man was arrested for having pornographic images on his cell phone after a co-worker inadvertently saw images on the man’s phone.  According to the Sun Gazette, 55 year old Todd Victor Getz was about to show a co-worker a picture of a fallen tree and when the pictures came up, the co-worker saw the pornographic image of a minor child and later called police.  Getz was found by the Computer Crime Unit to have hundreds of images of minor children stored on his phone.  He was arraigned on 629 felony charges of possession of child pornography and two counts of tampering with evidence.  He is free on 20 thousand dollars bail.

SINK HOLE CLOSES PENN STATE PARKING DECK

A sink hole closed a parking deck on Penn State’s University Park campus yesterday.  According to State College dot com, officials from Centre County Emergency Alerts and Information closed the Eisenhower Parking Deck just before noon to evaluate a sinkhole. No vehicle or pedestrian access is permitted on Eisenhower Road, and Penn State Transportation Services and asked people to avoid the area. But yesterday afternoon, parking permit holders for the building were taken by small groups to remove their vehicles and those unable to move their cars due to safety concerns had transportation home and back to campus provided today.  Eisenhower Deck is used for faculty and staff parking and was not being used for student move-in.

PA RAIL GRANT APPLICATION PROCESS IS OPEN

PennDOT has announced the application period is open for the Rail Transportation Assistance Program (RTAP) and the Rail Freight Assistance Program (RFAP) for those interested in investments within Pennsylvania’s Freight rail network.  The two grant programs are funded through the Multimodal Fund created by Act 89.  Find applications through 4pm September 1st, 2023 at the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development website.  esa.dced.state.pa.us.

BLOOMSBURG MAN CHARGED AS HABITUAL DUI OFFENDER

A man from Bloomsburg has been charged as a habitual offender after he was stopped for DUI while driving with a suspended license on June 29th.  According to North Central PA dot com, police say 32 year old Samuel Johnson was spotted at a gas station on East Seventh Street and was recognized by Bloomsburg police, who pulled him over once he got back on the road.  Police say Johnson admitted he knew he had a suspended license tha he lost for two previous DUIs in Locust Township in 2017 and in Catawissa in 2018.  A person is charged as an habitual offender after driving with a suspended license at least 3 times.

CHEMICAL CASTRATION AS PAROLE CONDITION INTRODUCED IN PA

A senator representing Cambria, Center and Clearfield Counties has introduced legislation in Harrisburg proposing chemical castration for certain repeat sex offenders who have been convicted of crimes against children under 13 years old.  According to the Daily Item, a qualified male offender would be given an injection of a testosterone reducing drug, for a period of time, as determined by a judge.  The effect is reversible.   There are 10 states with varied laws over chemical castration as a parole condition; Alabama, California, Florida, Georgia, Iowa, Louisiana, Montana, Oregon, Texas, and Wisconsin.

DOWNED TREE REMOVED FROM ROUTE 11

Route 11 in Northumberland County is reopen today after a downed tree brought down power lines yesterday morning.  Motorists were restricted from portions of Route 11 between the Weis Markets Warehouse and Diner Road in Northumberland Borough and Point Township, for several hours.  The roadway is now clear of debris and safe for drivers to use moving forward. Get details on road closures throughout the Commonwealth at 511PA dot com.

FLEMINGTON BRIDGE WON’T OPEN BEFORE SCHOOL

PennDOT reports that their goal of reopening of Flemington Bridge in Lock Haven before school resumes is not going to be possible even though they anticipated opening one lane by the end of August.  According to officials, they acknowledge the inconvenience, but report that extra concerns needed to be addressed on the 90 year old bridge that took extra time. Central Mountain School District has been notified and has worked out alternate bus routes around the detour for the start of school.  The bicycle detour includes Irwin Street, Canal Street and Fairpoint Road.

SPORTS

MLB

Reds 7                  Guardians 2
Tigers 8                Twins 7
Mets 8                  Pirates 3
D’backs 9             Rockies 7
Rays 6                  Giants 1
Astros 12             Marlins 5
A’s 8                              Cardinals 0
Nationals 6                     Red Sox 2
Phillies 9              Blue Jays 4
Braves 2               Yankees 0
Angels 2               Rangers 0
Cubs 4                  White Sox 3
Mariners 6           Royals 5
Padres 5               Orioles 2
Dodgers 7             Brewers 1
MLB Draft League
Frederick Keys 16       Williamsport Crosscutters 12
Cutters attempt to stop the Keys from sweeping the series tonight on the road.  Cutters are back in Williamsport next Thursday August 24th to host the State College Spikes/ 6:35 pm first pitch

2023 Little League World Series
Game 1 – Panama   4                      Czech Republic    0
Game 2 – Smithfield, RI   3           Henderson, Nevada   1
Game 3 – Japan   1                         Cuba    0
Game 4 – Needville, TX   2            Media, PA    1
TODAY/ All Games on ESPN
Game 5 Australia vs Curacao 1pm Volunteer
Game 6 Seattle Washington (Northwest) vs Gray Maine (New England) 3pm Lamade
Game 7 Chinese Taipei (Asia-Pacific) vs Regina Saskatchewan (Canada) 5pm Volunteer
Game 8 New Albany Ohio (Great Lakes) vs El Segundo California (West) 7pm Lamade

NFL Preseason Tonight
Browns vs Eagles in Philadelphia 7:30 NFL Network

BACKYARD BROADCAST LOCAL NEWS AUGUST 16, 2023

MUNCY MAN CHARGED AFTER HIT AND RUN

A Muncy man was stopped by police after he allegedly struck a parked car in a convenience store parking lot while intoxicated on June 16th and fled the scene.  According to the Sun Gazette, Shawn Shearer was traveling in a pickup truck hauling a trailer that witnesses at a gas station on Lycoming Mall Drive said had a flat tire before the hit and run.  Officers stopped Shearer traveling at a high rate of speed on Quaker Church Road dragging the trailer from a missing back tire, and said in an affidavit he smelled of alcohol.  Shearer was arraigned Friday in district court for felony DUI – his third in ten years – and was released on 35 thousand dollars bail.

HEGINS MAN DIES OF INJURIES AFTER JULY ACCIDENT

A 62 year old man from Hegins died of his injuries this week after a head-on crash that happened on Route 54, near the intersection with Route 61 July 21st.  Mount Carmel Township police said Irvin S. Koons was in a Chevrolet Silverado driving east on the Strong Connector in Mount Carmel Township around 6pm when a Ford F-150, driven by 41 year old  Nathan Weaver, of Mount Carmel, crossed the double-yellow line coming from the other direction and struck his vehicle.  Koons and Weaver were both transported to Geisinger in Danville.  Weaver remains in critical condition.  The crash remains under investigation.

FUNDS FOR PA’S ELECTRIC CAR CHARGING INFRASTRUCTURE

PennDOT has announced a federal investment that will allow the availability of more electric vehicle stations across Pennsylvania.  According to a PennDOT state news, Senator Bob Casey said the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, strengthens and expands our electric vehicle charging infrastructure.  $33.8 million of a 171.5 million dollar investment will go toward four stations in Centre, Clinton and Northumberland County in Milesburg, Mill Hall and Milton that will each provide four federally compliant charging ports.  Find out more at penndot.pa.gov.

OPENING CEREMONIES AT LITTLE LEAGUE TODAY

The Little League World Series Opening Ceremonies are this morning at 11:15am at Volunteer Stadium in South Williamsport.  The event begins with the Parade of Champions where each team is welcomed by family, friends and fans culminating toward several ceremonial first pitches including one by a little leaguer from Lancaster, Pa who will participate in the Challenger Game . The Uptown Music Collective will be there early to warm up the crowd starting at ten am, with Game 1 set at volunteer stadium starting at 1pm between Europe/Africa and Panama.  The Pennsylvania team from Media PA plays Needville, TX in Game 4 this evening at 7pm in Lamade stadium.  All games are aired on ESPN. 

MAN DOES DONUTS IN PARKING LOT WITH TODDLER IN LAP

A man from Picture Rocks was arrested after witnesses called police when he was allegedly drunk and doing donuts in a parking lot with a toddler on his lap.  According to North Central PA dot com, Hughesville police were called to an area near 277 South Main Street in Picture Rocks on August 7th where they say 39 year old Peter Skiro was spinning the front tires of his truck until they stopped him.  Skiro was interviewed by police with his two-year-old daughter climbing in front seat of the car and they found a warrant for his arrest in Northumberland County, and a suspended license for DUI.  He was charged with third-degree felony endangering the welfare of children, DUI and more and was released on 50 thousand dollars bail.

SHAMOKIN FIRE OFFICIALS SUSPENDED

Shamokin City Council has announced the suspension of two fire officials, pending an investigation, after a junior firefighter suffered injuries during a training exercise last month.  According to the News-Item, Battalion Fire Chief Stephen Jeffery and Friendship Fire Company Captain Thomas Jeffery allegedly violated Act 155 from the Office of the State Fire Commissioner that requires junior firefighters to have parental permission to enter a live fire and that a credentialed state fire instructor is on hand during the exercise.  William Wood is the parent of the 17 year old who he says could have been killed.  Steve Jeffery, who also serves as county public safety director, said Wood’s son was wearing full firefighting equipment.

NEW EAST LYCOMING ELEMENTARY PRINCIPAL

There is a new Elementary principal at East Lycoming School District.  According to the Sun Gazette, Laura Barondeau was hired as the principal for Renn and Ferrrel elementary schools beginning Monday.  Mrs. Barondeau was previously a special education teacher for Hughesville High School and has 20 years of teaching experience.  The East Lycoming School Board also hired Mrs. Jessica Schuster as a guidance counselor at Ashkar Elementary School, and confirmed they will offer  girls wrestling, after the PIAA approved teams for girls in the state in early 2023.

LOGANTON PLAYER MAKES THE HOME RUN DERBY

A softball player from Loganton earned a spot in the Little League Home Run Derby and will be competing with seven other girls from around the country at Volunteer Stadium on August 24th during the Little League World Series.  According to WNEP,  12 year old Reagan Weaver of Keystone Little League joins the derby after recently competing in the East Regional T-Mobile Little League Home Run Derby in Kansas City, Missouri and won second out of 10, bringing her full circle back to her region where due to the close proximity to home, many or Weaver’s friends and family will be able to attend the game in South Williamsport.

SPORTS

MLB
Guardians 3         Reds 0
Astros 6               Marlins 5
Red Sox 5            Nationals 4
Blue Jays 2          Phillies 1
Pirates 7               Mets 4
Braves 5               Yankees 0
Twins 5                Tigers 3
Cardinals 6          A’s 2
Rangers 7             Angels 3
White Sox 5         Cubs 3
Mariners 10         Royals 8
Diamondbacks 8 Rockies 5
Padres 10             Orioles 3
Giants 7               Rays 0
Dodgers 6            Brewers 2

MLB Draft League
Crosscutters had a rough night in Maryland losing to the Keys 26-6
Williamsport continues the three-game series tonight on the road. First pitch is scheduled for 7:00pm

Little League Games Wednesday all games on ESPN
Game 1 Europe Africa South Czech Republic Little League, Brno, Czech Republic vs Panama Club Activo 2030  Veraguas, Panama 1pm Volunteer Stadium
Game 2 Mountain Henderson Little League, Henderson, Nevada vs. Metro Smithfield Little League, Smithfield, RI – 3pm Lamade Stadium
Game 3 Japan Musashi Fuchu Little League,Tokyo vs. Cuba Bayamo Little League, Bayamo, Cuba 5pm Volunteer Stadium
Game 4 Southwest Needville Little League, Needville, Texas vs Mid-Atlantic Media Little League, Media, Pa 7pm Lamade Stadium

NFL Preseason THURSDAY
Browns vs Eagles in Philadelphia 7:30 NFL Network

BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS AUGUST 15, 2023

HOUSE FIRE IN AVIS

A fire damaged a home in Avis Saturday night and the State Fire Marshal is investigating the blaze.  According to the Sun Gazette fire officials said the home, owned by Roger Myers of Roger’s Lemonade – a staple at the Clinton County Fair – may not be a total loss.  Volunteers from Lock Haven, Dunnstown, Flemington, Lamar and Wayne Townships, Woolrich, Jersey shore and other Lycoming County first responders all assisted the Avis Fire Company at the property at 500 Prospect Ave.  There were no injuries reported.

WOMAN JUMPED FROM TRUCK TO AVOID TURNING HERSELF IN TO POLICE

The Reedsville man who was driving when a woman allegedly jumped from the vehicle on Route 522 in McClure on June 19th, was arraigned last Tuesday.  According to North Central PA dot com, 43 year old Samuel Smith told police that when his passenger found out he was traveling to the state police barracks in Selinsgrove to surrender her for a probation warrant, she jumped from the truck.  The unidentified woman was found unresponsive in the roadway by a passerby, and was flown to the hospital with serious injuries.  Smith admitted that he did not stop the vehicle right away after she jumped, and was arrested for a felony accident personal injury charge and misdemeanor recklessly endangering another person.  He is free on 15 thousand dollars bail.

DEER TAGS FOR STATE GAME LANDS AVAILABLE

DMAP permits for the 2023-24 deer seasons went on sale yesterday.  According to the PA Game Commission hunters in Lycoming, Bradford, Sullivan, Luzerne, Tioga and other counties can get permits that allow them to harvest antlerless deer – one per tag – on the specific property for which the permit was issued.  Hunters can purchase up to two DMAP permits per state game land DMAP unit. Get details at hunt fish pa dot gov.  The third round of antlerless deer license sales also began Monday.

SOME RAIN FOR GRAND SLAM PARADE

Williamsport welcomed the world last night (despite the rain) for the 17th Grand Slam Parade welcoming 20 international teams anticipating the Little League World Series that kicks off Wednesday morning with opening ceremonies at 11am at Volunteer Stadium in South Williamsport. Residents and visitors prepare for events that will take place over the next 13 days, including ESPN’s Sunday Night Baseball Show, featuring the Phillies and Nationals playing the Little League Classic at Muncy Bank Ballpark at Historic Bowman field, and the Williamsport Welcomes the World Celebration and street festival on Friday August 25th from 5 til 9 in Downtown Williamsport.

RENOVO POLICE SEEK BURGLAR

A 15 year-old juvenile is in custody and there is an active warrant out for a Renovo man for a burglary that took place at the Salvation Army/Methodist Church on 7th St. in Renovo on August third.  According to the Lock Haven Express, the Renovo Police department is looking for 23 year old Jordan R. Mooney who, along with the juvenile, allegedly broke into the facility and attempted to steal items before being caught by employees who notified police.  Renovo Police are seeking Mooney’s whereabouts after a warrant was issued August 12th.  Call 570-923-2268 if you have information.

MOUNT CARMEL MAN INDICTED IN FEDERAL COURT

A grand jury indicted a Mount Carmel man yesterday on federal drug trafficking charges.  According to the Daily Item, 47 year old Charles Derr was charged by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania with drug trafficking, possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine, fentanyl and heroin in June of 2021.  The investigation into Derr’s alleged crimes is part of an initiative to combat the nationwide opioid epidemic by FBI, PA State Police and other agencies.

PRISON TO COLLEGE PROGRAM RECEIVES GRANT FROM FCFP

With a grant from the First Community Foundation Partnership of Pennsylvania, Penn College is offering inmates at the Lycoming County Pre-Release Center the opportunity to take the college’s Communications course at no cost so they can build skills and competencies in basic writing for the workplace and in oral communication so that they can be prepared to continue their education.  According to Craig Miler, the director for the Prison-to-College Program, the pilot project launched in August 2022, offering scholarships to those  who wish to pursue a certificate skill upon their release from prison.  Some Penn College offices will assist during the process, and student volunteers in the human services & restorative justice major will share support and guidance.

NO BUNK BEDS FOR LITTLE LEAGUE

Changes have been made this year at Little League International Tournament player housing and the sleeping accommodations.  According to a statement from Little League International, after a player, 12 year old Easton Oliverson, fell from the top bunk while he was sleeping at last year’s World Series –  sustaining serious injury, all bed frames are now individually on the floor providing participants with single, one-level beds at each of its tournament locations, including the international Grove in Williamsport.  The Oliverson family filed a lawsuit against the makers of the bed and Little League International and that suit is pending.  The 2023 Little League World Series is underway with opening ceremonies tomorrow at 11am in Volunteer Stadium.

SPORTS

MLB
Marlins 5            Astros 1
Mets  7                Pirates 2
Braves 11            Yankees 3
Cardinals 7         A’s 5
Rangers 12          Angels 0
Royals 7              Mariners 6
Rockies 6            Diamondbacks 4
Orioles 4             Padres 1
Rays 10               Giants 2


MLB Draft League
The Cutters are  on the road for the week until they come back home next Thursday, August 24th  to host the State College Spikes at Muncy Bank Ballpark in Historic Bowman Field with a 6:35pm first pitch


Little League Games Wednesday all games on ESPN
Game 1 Europe Africa vs Panama 1pm Volunteer Stadium
Game 2 Mountain vs. Metro 3pm Lamade Stadium
Game 3 Japan vs. Cuba 5pm Volunteer Stadium
Game 4 Southwest vs Mid-Atlantic 7pm Lamade Stadium

NFL News
Free agent running back and former Dallas Cowboy Ezekiel Elliott posted on social media yesterday that he is signing with the New England Patriots. Elliott agreed to terms with the Patriots which includes a $3 million base salary and a $1 million signing bonus that can be worth up to $6 million with incentives.


NFL Preseason THURSDAY
Browns vs Eagles in Philadelphia 7:30 NFL Network

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