BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS JULY 17, 2023

WARREN COUNTY ESCAPEE CAUGHT BY AUTHORITIES

Authorities have reported Michael Burham, who fled the Warren County jail on July 6, was found over the weekend following a tip to police. Police say Burham was spotted near Conewango Township after reports about a suspicious individual came in just before 4 p.m. Saturday.  According to State police, Burham was captured by 6pm and is in jail on $1 million bail with multiple charges including kidnapping and burglary. Burham was considered armed and dangerous. More than 200 state, federal and local officers took part in the search for Burham, and up to $22,000 in reward money had been posted.

VICTIM’S THROAT SLASHED AT KNOEBELS

A woman from East Stroudsburg has been arrested for her alleged involvement in a violent throat slashing that took place at Knobel’s Amusement Park near Elysburg Saturday after an argument.  According to Northcentral Pa.com, officials from the park say the altercation happened before 1:30 pm when 32-year-old Jessica Bertholf was involved in a struggle with a 41-year-old victim, before they were attacked. The victim was hospitalized and is expected to recover. Bertholf faces multiple charges including aggravated assault.  She was arraigned and is beinfg held in Columbia County Prison in lieu of $50,000 bail with a preliminary hearing July 25th.

ORANGE AIR QUALITY TODAY

The PA Department of Environmental protection has issued a CODE Orange air quality alert for all of Central Pennsylvania until midnight tonight.  When a region is in orange air quality alert, it means that the air pollution concentrations may be unhealthy for sensitive groups, such as those suffering from asthma, heart disease or other lung  issues, children and the elderly.  Residents are encouraged to avoid strenuous exercise or activity outdoors. Get details at airnow.gov.

LYCOMING COUNTY FAIR WEEK

The 152nd Lycoming County Fair continues for a full week today.  Livestock competitions are in full swing today with the Sheep show at 9am.  Fair gates open at 4 and the rides start up at 5 with Dan & Galla on the Red Dog Mobile Storage Stage at 4 and back again at 7.  The 4-H, Market Steer and Dairy Beef show starts at 6pm and the crew from Backyard Broadcasting will be live on the midway from 5 til 8pm all week til Saturday night!  Get details at lycomingfair.net.

ARMED ROBBERY SUSPECT CAPTURED BY POLICE

The man police sought who was involved in an armed robbery in June in York County, was caught by police in Centre County after a traffic stop July 11th.  According to North Central PA dot com, police say 39 year old Joshua Eisenmuth, who has an address in Lancaster, PA, was the passenger in the vehicle that was stopped by State police at Rockview near the Benner Pike Walmart in College Township, and he was apprehended shortly after fleeing the vehicle and running from the scene. Police recovered  $13,000 of stolen valuables Eisenmuth allegedly stole.  He has now also been charged with fleeing and eluding a police officer and flight to avoid apprehension.

OLDER BROTHER CHARGED IN YOUNGER BROTHER’S DEATH

A 15-year-old male was found deceased on April 6th and now his 21-year-old brother is charged with his death. As reported by WBRE Christopher Payne of Mount Carmel allegedly provided the lethal dose of Fentanyl and Xylazine to his brother just before his death. According to reports 30-year-old Victoria Mowry allegedly sold the drugs to Payne. Both now face multiple charges including involuntary manslaughter and drug delivery resulting in death.

THIEVES STEAL ITEMS FROM CARS

Police are looking for suspects who have been breaking into cars and stealing items in West Chillisquaque Township, Northumberland County. State police at Milton say the investigation continues into the thefts that mostly happened on Old Orchard Road between July 12 at 8:30 pm and July 13 around 4:30 am. Anyone with information is ask to contact Milton state police (570)-524-2662 or email [email protected]

MILLION DOLLAR SCRATCH-OFF LOTTERY TICKET BOUGHT LOCALLY

Pennsylvania lottery officials say a million dollar scratch off ticket was purchased at a grocery store in Northumberland.  According to Penn Live, the 20 dollar ticket to purchase was sold at Boyer’s Food Market at 2688 Locust Gap Highway in Mount Carmel and the store will receive $5,000 for selling the ticket.  Scratch-offs are distributed randomly so the Lottery learns where winning tickets are sold only after a prize has been claimed.

ACCIDENT ON I-80 EAST

Motorists are advised that Interstate 80 eastbound is closed at exit 215 Limestoneville  in Turbot Township, Northumberland County, due to a crash. According to 511PA dot com, the interstate is shut down eastbound through Exit 224/ Danville Route 54 exit.   A detour using Route 254 and Route 54 is in place. Wathc for stop and go traffic and expect delays in travel.

SPORTS
MLB

Rangers 6             Guardians 5
Giants 8               Pirates 4
White Sox 8         Braves 1
Orioles 5              Marlins 4
Phillies 7              Padres 6
Blue Jays 7           Diamondbacks 5
Brewers 4             Reds 3
Royals 8               Rays 4  
Cardinals 8          Nationals 4
Red Sox 11          Cubs  5  
Rockies 8             Yankee 7
Twins 5                A’s 4
Mariners 2           Tigers 0
Mets 2                  Dodgers 1
Astros 9               Angels 8
MLB Draft League
West Virginia Black Bears 8          Williamsport Crosscutters 7
The Cutters are back home tonight hosting the Mahoning Valley Scrappers.  6:35 pm first pitch.

TENNIS
Wimbledon
Women’s singles
24 year old Czech Republic’s Marketa Vondrousova, the first unseeded woman in the open era to advance to the final of the All-England Club, won 6-4, 6-4 over Ons Jabeur (AWNS ya BOOR)
Men’s singles
Spain’s Carlos Alcaraz defeated the number one seed Novak Djokovic Sunday claiming his second Grand Slam title with a 1-6, 7-6, 6-1, 3-6, 6-4 victory over Djokovic at the end of a four hour 42 minute match.

NASCAR
Crayon 301 in New Hampshire was postponed due to rainy weather yesterday. They will start at 11 today at the Magic Mile – this is the third race postponed this season over rain, including Dover and the Coca-Cola 600 in Charlotte.

BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS JULY 14, 2023

AUTHORITIES SEEK ESCAPEE

As authorities continue to search for escaped inmate Michael C. Burham, police say they are now investigating reports of a drone that was flying near the Warren County prison at the same time the escape was taking place.  During a press conference by Pennsylvania State Police, they said witnesses saw the drone, but it was not captured on surveillance video.  Burham was thought to be at large near the Allegheny National Forest but a cache of items were found in the woods near the city of Warren that police determined were his.  According to WTAJ in Altoona, State police announced yesterday that a total reward of up to $22,000 is being offered for information leading to the capture of Burham who escaped July 6th. Burham may be armed and state police say anyone with information about the drone or the suspect, should call state police barracks in Warren

NEW OLD LYCOMING TOWNSHIP SUPERVISORS MOVE FORWARD

The new slate of Old Lycoming Township Board of Supervisors met this week and were unified in their goal to move the township forward in the wake of previous conflict which led to resignations and retirements.  According to the Sun Gazette, David Shirn was elected as chairman and along with Lycoming County Court-appointed Justin Kastner and Richard Metz, worked through an agenda to set up proper voting procedures and appoint critical township positions.  They took public comments and asked for patience from the community members who were present while they work to rebuild a plan for the township.  Find information about the monthly public meetings on Facebook at Lycoming Regional Police Crimewatch.

LYCO MALL TENANT ANNOUNCES CLOSING

An associate of one of the last remaining tenants of the Lycoming Mall reported to local media that Books-A-Million is is closing. According to North Central PA dot com, BAM’s  last day open will be on Aug. 27.   BAM and Burlington Coat Factory had remained open for business after State College-based developers, Famvest Partners closed on the mall sale June 22, due to the fact that they had exterior entrances.  The store at the Lycoming Mall is holding a closing sale now. 

WEEKEND AT THE LYCOMING COUNTY FAIR

It’s the first full weekend of the 152nd Lycoming County Fair!  Gates open at 4 and the rides start up at 5,  with Monster Truck Rides and Unlimited Tough Truck Racing tonight in the grandstands at 6.  Williamsport rock band Audiobox is on the Red Dog Mobile Storage Stage 6-9 and the crew from Backyard Broadcasting will be live on the midway from 5 til 8pm and looking for Elvis every night of the fair until July 22ndst!  The fair opens at 10 am Saturday with 4H Exhibits and pig races on the Amelia Earhart Funway.  Get details at lycomingfair.net.

CAMPGROUND DISTURBANCE BRINGS AN ARREST

Police arrested a Jersey Shore man for causing a disturbance at a local campground June 1st, while they were at the 500 block of Staver Street investigating reports of drug use on the property.  According got the Sun Gazette, police came upon 27 year old Lee Matthew Winters and his girlfriend together in a camp chair in public, when Winters bent down and picked up methamphetamine and showed it to officers, who then took him into custody for possession of a controlled substance, public drunkenness and disorderly conduct. Winter waived his preliminary hearing and is free on 25 thousand dollars bail.

NEW IMMIGRATION CENTER TOURED BY LOCAL OFFICIALS

In response to rumors that Lycoming County is receiving illegal immigrants shipped here through the airport or by bus, the Commissioners explained the function of the soon to open U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) facility on South Reach Road the function of which had brought about suspicion in some residents.  According to the Sun Gazette, Commissioner Scott Metzger said the local site is not for long term housing, only for processing of immigrants who have had warrants issued for them.  The detainees then go to facilities in Pike or Clinton Counties.  Metzger and a group of other local officials including Commissioner Mussare, Mayor Derek Slaughter and Representatives Hamm and Flick toured the facility recently.

CONSTRUCTION IN SOUTH WILLIAMSPORT NEXT WEEK

Route 15 on the Southside of Williamsport will see more construction starting Sunday and continuing through Friday.  According to PennDOT, a contractor will be saw cutting and adjusting manholes at various locations throughout the project in both the north and south bound lanes. Work will be performed between the hours of 9:00 AM through 3:00 PM. Watch for alternating lane closures where work is being performed in Armstrong Township, Lycoming County. No work is planned on this project during the Little League World Series.

FREE HERNIA SCREENINGS

UPMC is offering free hernia screenings on Friday, July 28, from 8am til 4pm.  A hernia is characterized as a bulge that is underneath the skin in your abdominal area along with a burning, aching, or pain that worsens when lifting, coughing, or straining . These screenings are offered by appointment only at the Health Innovation Center of UPMC Williamsport, 740 High St., in Williamsport.   After the screening, follow-up care will be offered if necessary. 

SPORTS

MLB Tonight
Padres are in Philadelphia to play the Phillies 6:05pm
Marlins @ Baltimore at 7:05 to play the Orioles
Giants @ Pittsburgh to play the Pirates at 7:05 on Apple TV+
Mets host the Dodgers at 7:10 on Apple TV+
Yankees play in Colorado at 8:40 

MLB Draft League
Trenton Thunder 11 Williamsport Crosscutters 3
The Crosscutters hit the road for three games against the West Virginia Black Bears tonight at 7pm. 

NASCAR
Crayon 301 @ New Hampshire Motor Speedway Pre Race Coverage 1:30pm Green Flag Racing 2:30pm on the Twin Valley’s Talk Radio Network or WILQ’s HD3

UFC News
For the third time in the past three years, a UFC light heavyweight champion has given up the title. Jamahal Hill, who has been champion for six months, announced Thursday night on his YouTube page that he ruptured an Achilles tendon and will be relinquishing the belt.

TENNIS
Wimbledon Men’s Singles
Quarterfinals this morning in Centre Court
Serbia’s Novak Djokovic vs Italy’s Jannik Sinner @8:30am
Spain’s Carlos Alcaraz vs Russia’s Daniil Medvedev @10:30am

BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS JULY 13, 2023

THREE IN CUSTODY OVER STABBING IN SUNBURY

A second person has been identified and charged for allegedly being involved in a stabbing in Sunbury July 7th.  According to the Daily Item, 32 year old Ray Swigart, Jr. of Chestnut Street was charged by Sunbury police, joining 17-year-old Kulpmont resident Kaylee Lehman who is also accused of being involved in the stabbing of the same male victim.  Police say a third person is also in custody, but no charged have been filed.  Lehman is in Northumberland County jail in liue of 75 thousand dollars bail, Swigart will be arraigned at a later date, and the investigation is continuing.

ANIMAL CRUELTY CHARGES IN SNYDER COUNTY

Animal cruelty charges were filed against a man from Mount Pleasant Mills July 1st after reports to State police at Selinsgrove.  According to North Central PA dot com, police say 38 year old Beau Brady Keister was keeping two pit bull dogs in inhumane conditions in a barn off of Troxelville Road in Center Township during the mid-90s temperatures, allegedly with no food or water. Summary offenses of neglect, confinement of a dog on a chain, and cruelty to animals were filed in Snyder County Court.

HUGHESVILLE APPROVED BODY CAMERAS FOR POLICE

Purchase of body cameras for the police department was approved at the most recent meeting of the Hughesville Borough Council.  According to the Sun Gazette, the cost of four body cameras that was discussed during the June meeting came to just over 2,700 dollars.  Other business  in the borough as the Lycoming County fair begins this week included announcing parking restrictions on several streets in Hughesville during the annual event.  There will be no parking noted on Main Street then South 2nd to South 5th Street, and cross streets around Broadway and the fair gate.  Get parking details at Lycoming fair dot net.

POCONO RACEWAY FOUNDER NOMINATED BY NASCAR

The founder of Pocono Raceway, Dr. Joseph Mattioli was announced as a posthumous nominee by NASCAR for the Landmark Award yesterday.  According to WHTM, representatives from NASCAR and the NASCAR Hall of Fame who make up the Nomination Committee chose 15 nominees for the 2024 Hall of Fame Class and five for the Landmark Award.  Mattiolli, who was a World War II Navy Medic, gave up a dentistry practice in Philadelphia to buy a spinach farm into which he grew Pocono Raceway. Mattioli passed away in 2012 in Allentown.  The NASCAR Cup Series, Pocono 400 is July 24th at the Tricky Triangle, in Long Pond.

MUNCY FATHER FACES ABUSE CHARGES

A Muncy father is free on bail after authorities say his infant showed signs of child abuse after an overnight visit May 13th.  According to North Central PA dot com, 29 year old Zachari Francis Santey returned the baby to his mother who noticed bruising on his arms and neck that hospital officials say is consistent with abuse.  Santey allegedly suggested to Muncy Borough Police that the baby may have been harmed by a ghost that he thinks has touched him as well and may be haunting his apartment.  Police arrested the man who posted the 99 thousand dollars bond who has a preliminary hearing Friday.

FIFTH DUI CHARGE FOR NORTHUMBERLAND WOMAN

A woman from Northumberland was charged with DUI controlled substance May 20th after witnesses called police following her swerving to avoid an oncoming car, nearly causing a crash and driving over a curb on Fairground Road in East Buffalo Township.  According to Buffalo Valley Regional Police Department, said 49 year old Kristina M. Reitz, told them she had been drinking at a campground all weekend, was on a muscle relaxer and that she had taken a Suboxone and mushrooms before she was taken in where charges were filed in front of District Judge Jeffery Rowe.  Reitz has been convicted on four previous DUIs.

UPS STRIKE COULD HAPPEN IN AUGUST

With contract negotiations breaking down at United Parcel Service since they started between management and the Union in April, about 425 Valley UPS workers could possibly be on strike come Aug. 1.  According to the Daily Item, the secretary-treasurer and business representative for the Teamsters 764 of Milton said 340,000 employees across the country will be affected after the company refused to continue to negotiate the contract which about to expire on July 31st at midnight. The heart of the matter is the union wanting to raise the wage of part-time employees.

LYCOMING COUNTY FAIR CONTINUES TODAY

The 152nd Lycoming County Fair continues today with the gates opening at 4pm.  Admission is 4 dollars with kids 12 & under FREE with a paid adult and 3 dollar parking.  Rides and games kick off at 5pm with Backyard Broadcasting Live on the midway from 5 til 8pm every night of the fair until July 21st!  There is  HARNESS RACING for free tonight in the grandstand and Chamberlain hill plays from 6 til 9 at the Red Dog Mobile Storage Stage.  Get details at lycomingfair.net.

SPORTS

MLB
No major-league baseball today

MLB Friday
Padres are in Philadelphia to play the Phillies 6:05pm
Marlins @ Baltimore at 7:05 to play the Orioles
Giants @ Pittsburgh to play the Pirates at 7:05 on Apple TV+
Mets host the Dodgers at 7:10 on Apple TV+
Yankees play in Colorado at 8:40  

MLB Draft League
Williamsport Crosscutters 7          Trenton Thunder 4
The Cutters tie up the series 1-1 and try for 2 tonight at Historic Bowman Field – 6:35pm first pitch.


Sports/ESPY News
*The Kansas City Chiefs had a good night last night at the ESPYS, winning the award for Best Team and quarterback Patrick Mahomes honored as Best Athlete in Men’s Sports and Best NFL Player.

*28 year old Mahomes has won two Super Bowls in his five seasons and was named MVP of the game each time.

*Skier Mikaela Shiffrin received the award for Best Athlete in Women’s Sports. *Shiffrin won her 87th World Cup race in March, breaking the mark set by Ingemar Stenmark for the most such wins by any skier.

BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS JULY 12, 2023

MAN ARRESTED FOR STRANGULATION

A Williamsport man was arrested for strangulation after his 40th birthday celebration went bad on June 28th.  According to the Sun Gazette, Jesse James Gadd allegedly pushed and choked a woman at the 1400 block of Clayton Avenue before 9pm after she reportedly poured out his drink.  The victim’s phone was also damaged during the fight.  Gadd was also charged with simple harassment and criminal mischief.  He Posted 50 thousand dollar monetary bail through a bail bondsman.

GUILTY PLEA FOR SEX OFFENDER

A man who was caught when he attempted to meet  a young girl online who was a grown man posing as a minor, was sentenced June 13th and is facing 11 months to two years in prison.  According to North Central PA dot com,  30 year old, George Zamorski plead guilty to criminal solicitation in February and will be credited for time served.  He will be a Tier II sexual offender who will have to comply with all standard and optional sex offender conditions as well as perform 50 hours of community service.  Zamorski will be eligible for work release and will serve five years of probation after his release.

BIDS FOR CITY HALL DUE JULY 20TH

Potential buyers of  Williamsport’s historic City Hall still has time to submit a bid for the100-year-old building.  According to Penn Live, bids are due by noon July 20 and will be made public at council’s meeting at 7 that evening.  The City of Williamsport retained Fish Commercial Group to handle the sale which will contain certain conditions ensuring the downtown building will not remain empty and the historical significance will remain.  Council President Adam Yoder says as they consider the bids they would like assurances the buyer has the means and the ability to do something with the building that is on the National Register of Historic Places.

LYCOMING COUNTY FAIR STARTS TODAY

The 152nd Lycoming County Fair starts today with free gate admission at 4pm  Starting Thursday admission is 4 dollars with kids 12 & under FREE with paid adult.Parking is 3 dollars and everyday the fair features Backyard Broadcasting on the midway – broadcasting live from 5 til 8pm.  The rides start up tomorrow at 5pm and animal showing starts Saturday. Everyone is invited to ENJOY HARNESS RACING for free tonight in the grandstand beginning at 4pm.  Get details about the fair that runs through July 22ndat lycomingfair.net.

INMATE FACES MORE CHARGES

A Lycoming County inmate who was incarcerated last month for robbery and kidnapping charges is facing new charges filed by the county’s Narcotics Enforcement Unit from an incident April 3rd.  According to the Sun Gazette, 47 year old Edward James Nicholas was allegedly involved in  a drug sale of 32 grams of methamphetamine which was seized from an apartment near the 600 block of Rose Street in Williamsport.  Nicholas was arraigned and remains in jail in lieu of 85 thousand dollars bail.

PENNDOT HONORS THOSE LOST IN DISTRICT 2

A new memorial to honor Department of Transportation workers of District 2 who have been killed on the job was dedicated Tuesday.  According to North Central PA dotcom, PennDOT and representatives from the American Federation of State, County & Municipal Employees (AFSCME) and the Pennsylvania State Police, unveiled the memorial at their District 2 Office at 70 PennDOT Drive in Clearfield to remember 5 workers who were lost on the job since 1970, including Walter Lane, John Coble, Gerald Confer, Jack Griffin, and Timothy Fitch.  The traveling PennDOT Worker’s Memorial was on display and honors all 90 PennDOT employees killed in the line of duty across the commonwealth since 1970 when the department was established.

DIGITAL LITERACY CLASSES ONGOING AT HERR LIBRARY

The Herr Memorial Library, on Market Street in Mifflinburg, is is responding to a need for digital literacy in the Union County workforce with free computer education classes available.  A state grant has been applied to strengthen Pennsylvania’s workforce with better digital literacy skills and the library will provide the training by appointment or during sessions at the library Mondays and Tuesdays.  The grant runs through September but they will continue the program after that.  Anyone interested in the program that started in April, may sign up online at ucls.libcal.com or in person at 500 Market Street in Mifflinburg.

NINE CROSSCUTTERS SELECTED IN DRAFT LEAGUE

A record total of nine Williamsport Crosscutters were selected in the recently completed 2023 MLB Draft, consisting of 20 rounds with 614 players chosen this past week in Seattle, where they held the All-Star Game last night. For Williamsport, this year’s nine selections is a new high mark for the team since joining the MLB Draft League after eight players were selected in 2021 and six in 2022.  The Crosscutters continue the 2023 MLB Draft League season at Muncy Bank Ballpark at Historic Bowman Field with 24 home games remaining.

SPORTS

MLB All-Star Game

National League 3        American League 2
*Colorado Rockies catcher Elias Diaz took a go-ahead two-run home run in the eighth inning to help seal the victory at T-Mobile Park in Seattle.

*The AL still holds an overall head-to-head record of 47-44-2.

MLB Draft League
Trenton Thunder pounded the Williamsport Crosscutters last night 9-2.  Cutters try again tonight in Game 2 at Muncy Bank Ballpark at Historic Bowman Field, 6:35pm first pitch.

TENNIS
Wimbledon Men’s Singles 

*Djokovic defeated Andrey Rublev  4-6, 6-1, 6-4, 6-3, moving him closer to a fifth consecutive championship.
*Novak Djokovic won a 46th Grand Slam semifinal yesterday to tie Roger Federer’s record for men.
* Djokovic next meets No. 8 seed Jannik Sinner, the 21-year-old from Italy, he has won both previous head-to-head meetings against Sinner.
* American Christopher Eubanks faces No. 3 seed and 2021 US Open champion Daniil Medvedev with a chance to reach the semifinals today.

Women’s Singles
*Ukrainian Elina Svitolina, who returned to the tour after giving birth to her daughter last October, ousted the top-seeded Iga Swiatek (EEga sheONteck) on Centre Court 7-5, 6-7 , 6-2 on Tuesday to reach the semifinals at the All England Club for the second time in four years.
* Elina Svitolina has defeated four former major champions at Wimbledon: Venus Williams, Sofia Kenin, Victoria Azarenka and now Swiatek.

BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS JULY 11, 2023

WARREN COUNTY PRISON ESCAPEE STILL AT LARGE

The man who escaped from the Warren County Prison is still at large for a 4th day, as federal and local police search areas of the Allegheny National Forest for the homicide suspect and kidnapping defendant who they say is a self-taught survivalist.  According to WIBV, police say it’s not clear if 34-year-old Michael C Burham, who is from Russell, PA has firearms, but they think he is hiding out east of Erie County. Burham is wanted in connection with the May 11 fatal shooting of 34 year old Kala Hodgkin, of Jamestown, New York.  State police urge those with information to call the state police barracks in Warren (814-728-3600) The U.S. Marshals Service and Warren County Crime Stoppers are both offering cash rewards for information that helps lead to Burham’s capture.

WILLIAMSPORT CITY ENGINEER LEAVES POSITION

Moving on to a new job outside the government sector, Williamsport’s engineer, Jon Sander, has announced he will be leaving his position.  According to the Sun Gazette, Sander served the city by completing a handful of important projects, including the continued levee recertification and flood-mitigation on Grafius Run, accessibility and improvements to downtown traffic, as well as seeing the funding through to completion for the bandshell renovations at Brandon Park.  City Council President Adam Yoder commended Sander for his service to Williamsport.

SOME AREAS STILL MUST BOIL DRINKING WATER

There is still a boil water advisory in areas of McElhattan after the city of Lock Haven says there is still an increased risk for Microbial Contamination in the drinking water system after a loss of positive water pressure at the filtration plant  in June.  According to the Lock Haven Express, Residents of Cochise Trail, Geronimo Trail and Hiawatha Trail should not drink the water without boiling for a full minute it first and letting it cool.  The city will continue to test the water for safety and will inform the public when it is safe to drink unboiled water again.

SPEEDWAY PARTNERS WITH BREWERY FOR BIG RACE

Cans of beer featuring the Clinton County Speedway and Floating Feathers logo and a picture of Billy Dietrich’s #8 Sprint Car are being produced for the Phil Walter Classic, August 12th, Clinton County Speedway’s largest race of the season.  According to the speedway, they are partnering with Floating Feathers brewery so fans can preorder the beverage online at their website or Facebook page and will be able to pick up their orders at the speedway August 12th during the race.  The two 410 sprint car events are a hallmark of the 2023 season as the speedway celebrates their 35th anniversary year.

CAR THEFT IN SOUTH WILLIAMSPORT

A 21 year old South Williamsport man was arrested for stealing a car Monday around 11am while the car owners were unloading their aluminum can donation at the 500 block of West Southern Avenue.  According to the Sun Gazette, police say that just a few minutes after Brett Kimber Guthrie allegedly took the car, he was stopped on Route 15 north of Route 54 and taken into custody around the Armstrong Clinton Township line.  Expressing remorse in court, Guthrie was committed to Lycoming County Prison in lieu of 25 thousand dollar bail.

YOUNG MOTHER ARRESTED FOR DUI

A Linthicum Heights woman was charged with DUI and felony reckless endangerment after Hughesville police found her with involuntary body movements and speaking incoherently, while sitting behind the wheel of her running car with a toddler in the back seat.  According to the Sun Gazette, police were called to interview 23 year old, Tiffany Lynn Manger about 1pm July 2nd at 1 Main Street in the borough, and as they questioned her, they determined she was allegedly impaired. Her two-year old son was in the car without a safety seat, and was picked up by Children and Youth Services before Manger was arrested, after which she refused to give a blood sample.  She is incarcerated in lieu of 25 thousand dollars bail.

PENNDOT MANTAINENCE TODAY IN NORRY, UNION COUNTIES

There will be a lane closure tomorrow on Route 147 SB, the CSVT River Bridge in Union and Northumberland Counties  for maintenance work. According to PennDOT a contractor will be performing maintenance work today on the camera system along the bridge taking up the right lane.  Motorists can expect the restriction between 9 and 2.  In addition, PennDOT says Windstream will be working today on utility wires from White Deer Township to Watsontown Borough, closing White Deer Pike, Watsontown River Bridge and West Brimmer Avenue between Harbeson Road and Canal Street for about 3 hours.

CITY, LYCOMING COLLEGE SIGN BRANDON PARK LEASE

Williamsport City Council approved a lease by resolution last week after the city and Lycoming College cemented a 25 year lease for the senior field at Brandon Park, and the college is planning on creating a new field there. According to the Sun Gazette, Mayor Slaughter says the college is investing 2.5 million dollars of capital in a home field for its baseball team, as well as for a facility the public can use with prior approval from the college.  There are plans for upgrades to two other ballparks in Brandon Park, with the hopes that all three can be in use once again to draw softball and baseball attention to the area, for little league, organizational play and collegiate games.

SPORTS

MLB
National vs American League tonight in Seattle – 8pm on FOX
The 93rd edition of the All-Star Game at T-Mobile Park is tonight, with the American League looking to take home a 10th consecutive win over the National League.

MLB Draft League
Williamsport Crosscutters are at home tonight at Historic Bowman Field, hosting Trenton Thunder.  6:35pm first pitch.

LLB
Last night in Lamade Stadium, Keystone came back to score 6 runs in the top of the sixth and held on to an 8-6 win over Loyalsock to claim the Little League Baseball District 12 Majors Championship.

TENNIS
Wimbledon Men’s Singles
*Novak Djokovic defeated Hubert Hurkacz returning Monday and sealing  a 7-6,7-6,5-7,6-4 victory after being stopped Sunday night by the 11pm curfew
*27 year old American, Christopher Eubanks upset Stefano Tsitsipas of Greece, 3-6,7-6,3-6, 6-4,6-4, in three hours on Monday reaching the quarterfinals for his Wimbledon debut.

Women’s Singles
The Wimbledon debut of Russia’s Mirra Andreeva ended after the 16-year-old was beaten 3-6, 7-6, 6-2 by American Madison Keys, who won the fourth-round Monday.

BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS JULY 10, 2023

STABBING IN SUNBURY

Three people are now in custody following a Friday morning stabbing in Sunbury. According to the Daily Item, the incident was in the 100 block of North 4th Street around 2:30 am and sent one man to the hospital. Police Chief Brad Hare reported three individuals were taken into custody from Kulpmont. According to reports the three were allegedly going to rob the man before stabbing him. Police are still investigating and did not release the names of the suspects or when or if charges would be filed. If you have any information on the incident please contact the Sunbury police.

REGAL CINEMA WILL CLOSE THIS MONTH

After announcing a bankruptcy plan in January, Cineworld has announced that the Regal Cinema’s theater at the former Lycoming Mall will be closing July 20th along with 38 other theaters across the US.  According to the Sun Gazette, the theater between Pennsdale and Montoursville is one of three theaters in PA that are closing, the others in Doylestown and Oaks.  After this round of closures Cineworld is prepared to exit bankruptcy proceedings this month.

BRIDGE REPLACEMENT WORK CONTINUES THIS WEEK

A bridge replacement project is continuing this week in Cummings Township. This project will replace the structure carrying Route 287 over Larry’s Creek, approximately 5.6 miles north of the intersection with Route 973. Traffic will be in a single lane, controlled by a temporary traffic signal. There is a 11′ width restriction in place for oversize vehicles. The bridge replacement is scheduled to be complete by this November. This week, traffic is scheduled to switch to the northbound side of the newly completed structure and construction of the southbound side will begin.

HIGH SPEED CHASE LEADS TO ARREST

A Williamsport man was arrested following a police pursuit along I-180 in Northumberland County June 28th and is facing charges in district court.  According to North Central PA dot com, 20-year-old Avonte Gardner fled from police off I-180 eastbound and onto the exit ramp at Route 54.  Police say Gardner attempted to turn off the ramp while speeding and went down a muddy embankment where he got stuck 50 feet from the Delaware township roadway where police apprehended him.

TWO HIKERS RESCUED BY RALSTON FIRST RESPONDERS

Emergency responders successfully searched rugged terrain Friday near the McIntyre-McNett township line for two female hikers who send an activated emergency signal to the county’s 911 center around 4:30pm.  According to the Sun Gazette, Ralston firefighters searched a wide area near a loggers hiking trail and Yellow Dog and Rock Run roads before finding the two around 7:15pm with one woman suffering a minor ankle injury.  The hikers who were from the Canton area were transported on ATV’s to a command center at Yellow Dog Road and both declined medical treatment at the scene. 

NO AUDIT FOR LYCOMING COUNTY ELECTION RESULTS

A Lycoming County will not endure a forensic audit of the 2020 general election. According to the Sun Gazette, Lycoming County Judge Eric R. Lindhardt dismissed complaints which argued fraud and irregularities existed. Conservative activists Richard Houser and Catherine Burns went on the claim the Lycoming county commissioners and Forrest K. Lehman, the director of elections did not adequately investigate their complaints.  Lindhart ruled there was no provision in the state election code where the board of elections can be compelled by an independent entity to conduct an audit. An appeal is expected to the Commonwealth Court.

RESCUE WORKERS CAN PICK UP DONATIONS

American Rescue Workers in Lycoming County said they have recently had to throw away nearly 30 thousand tons of trash generated by donations being placed in an area where they were damaged and became unusable.  According to Rescue Workers officials,  there was a significant loss of revenue since they have to pay 80 dollars per ton of trash.  If you have a good amount of items to donate, call the American rescue workers for a pick up instead of dumping items where they could be ruined.   There are 10 retail thrift stores in their system, providing 52 percent of the operating budget for the year to support three homeless shelters.  Go to arwwilliamsport.org for information.

SPORTS

MLB
Royals 4               Guardians 1
Nationals 7          Rangers 2
Cubs 7                  Yankees 4
Red Sox 4            A’s 3
Rays 10                Braves 4
Marlins 7              Phillies 3
Blue Jays 4            Tigers 3
Orioles 15            Twins 2
Brewers 1             Reds 0
Mariners 3           Astros 1
Cardinals 4          White Sox 3
Giants 1               Rockies 0
Pirates 4               Diamondbacks 2
Padres 6               Mets 2

MLB Draft League
*The Frederick Keys led the Williamsport 3-0 last night on the road, before the game was cancelled due to severe thunderstorms after 3 innings. The series was tied up 1 and 1. 
*The Cutters come home tomorrow to play Trenton Thunder at Historic Bowman Field.

TENNIS
Wimbledon  
Men’s Singles
*Grigor Dimitroff defeated 10th seed American Frances Tiafoe, 6-2,6-3,6-2 on Sunday to move into the fourth round of Wimbledon
*Novak Djokovic took the first two sets yesterday in the 4th Round 7-6,7-6 against Hubert Hurkacz, (HER kaszh) on Center Court.  The match was suspended since it could not continue past 11pm and will resume today.

Women’s Singles
Ukraine’s Elina Svitolina reached the quarterfinals with a 2-6, 6-4, 7-6 (9) win against Belarus’ Victoria Azarenka
*Svitolina refused a handshake at the end with a player from a country supporting Russia after the invasion.
Iga Swiatek (EEga she ON teck) reached the Wimbledon quarterfinals for the first time with a 6-7 , 7-6 , 6-3 victory over Belinda Bencic at Centre Court.

NASCAR
William Byron won the rain, shortened race at the Quaker State 400 atAtlanta Motor Speedway for his fourth victory of the season and his second win in Atlanta in the last two years.  Daniel Suarez was second, A.J. Allmendinger third,  followed by Michael McDowell 4th and Kyle Busch was fifth.

BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS JULY 7, 2023

DETAILS IN ROUTE 15 ROAD RAGE SHOOTING

A driver in the shooting off of Route 15 at the Beauty’s Run Road Exit on Wednesday has been identified and more information is available today about the incident.  According to the Sun Gazette, police say 22 year old Brandon Mullins became irate when he was driving his 2016 Mazda Cx5 at the Route 15 North Spur and rammed a Canadian family driving a Tesla when they allegedly cut him off. The Canadian driver called 911 and assumed they were pulling onto Beauty’s Run Road to exchange information, but Mullins instead showed a firearm and shot toward the Tesla, fleeing the scene.  He was apprehended at his home west of Mansfield later Wednesday. He faces charges of aggravated and simple assault, recklessly endangering and terroristic threats and is in Lycoming County Prison in lieu of 175 thousand dollars bail.

ACCIDENT CLOSES ROUTE 61 IN SHAMOKIN

A rollover accident in Shamokin Wednesday night along Route 61 caused serious injuries to an unidentified driver of a Toyota Corolla who police say struck a few curbs and then flipped while driving north on the Mount Carmel Street section of the road, sliding to a stop in front of another car after 9pm.  The injured man was unresponsive at the scene, but was revived on the way to Geisinger Medical Center in Danville.  The driver and passenger in the second car were not injured.  Route 61 was closed for about an hour as Shamokin Fire Bureau and Shamokin Fire Police worked to clear the scene.

BILL INTRODUCED IN PA TO LEGALIZE MARIJUANA

A bi-partisan bill has been introduced in the Pennsylvania Legislature to legalize marijuana use for those 21 and older. According to WHTM, in addition to  banning any marketing to children and establishing workplace requirements, the bill would expunge non-violent marijuana convictions for medical marijuana patients.  Patients would then also be able to grow a limited number of cannabis plants for personal use. Lawmakers say the bill gives law enforcement the ability to adjudicate driving under the influence as well.

WATER QUALITY AT LOCK HAVEN BEACH BETTER

The Lock Haven City Beach at Vesper Street has reopened after a closure due to water quality there last week.  According to the Sun Gazette, Kasey Campbell, the City’s Director of Community Life said after testing June 23rd, bacteria levels, as regulated by the state, were higher than acceptable but now after closely monitoring the bacteria in the lake, the levels have evened out to a safe level and the State and City have determined there is no risk to public health at this time.  Lifeguards are posted at the beach Tuesday through Sunday from 11am to 6pm, and the beach stays open until mid-August.

ARGUMENT IN GAMBLE TOWNSHIP LEADS TO ASSAULT CHARGES

Police say a 70 year old man was injured by Montoursville man along a road in Gamble Township after he was pushed into a ditch following an argument.  According to North Central PA dot com, 27 year old Daniel Jacob Bonds was charged with simple assault and two counts of harassment on June 20, but was subpoenaed on July 2 for the confrontation over whether the vehicle driven by him was involved in a prior hit and run.  Both men got out of their cars on Butternut Grove Road January 12th and argued.  Bonds then pushed the man down an embankment, who got up, went to his car and pulled out a .22 Heritage revolver but didn’t threaten anyone, even though he told police the accuser was angry.  Police say Bonds is scheduled to appear in Court for a preliminary hearing August 7th.

CASH REWARD OFFERED FOR ROBBERY SUSPECT AT LARGE

A cash reward is being offered for information that could lead to an arrest of an armed robbery suspect from Middleburg who police say may be hiding out with a Williamsport woman.  According to North Central PA dot com, 39 year old Joshua Eisenhuth has a warrant for felony burglary theft, receiving stolen property, and misdemeanor criminal mischief charges.  Police say he may be with 23 year old Bailey Maggs of Williamsport and the couple may be in Lancaster or York Counties. Eisenmuth is a 6’0 white male, 220 lbs. with brown hair and blue eyes.  Call 1-800-4PA-TIPS if you have information.

MILTON ROADWAY REOPENED

Route 405 in Milton Borough has reopened after portion of North Front Street was closed yesterday for downed utilities. According to PennDOT, the detour on Susquehanna Trail , Interstate 180 eastbound, Route 147 southbound to Route 254 westbound through Northumberland County reopened about 6pm last night. PennDOT anticipated to see work continue through today, but they were ahead of schedule.

PENN COLLEGE FACULTY TO LEAD PA CIVIL AIR PATROL

Col. William A. Schlosser, an emergency management and homeland security instructor at Penn College has been selected as the 20th commander of the Pennsylvania Wing of the Civil Air Patrol and will lead the organization for the next three years.  Founded in 1941 to mobilize the nation’s civilian aviation resources for national defense service , the Pennsylvania Wing comprises 43 squadrons with more than 1,600 volunteers.  Schlosser, who has an undergraduate degree from Mansfield and a Masters in emergency and disaster management American Military University, has served as vice commander of CAP’s Pennsylvania Wing since 2019.

SPORTS

MLB

Guardians 6                   Royals 1
Reds 5                  Nationals 4
Tigers 9                A’s 0
Brewers 6             Cubs 5
Blue Jays 6           White Sox 2 Game 1
Blue Jays 5           White Sox 4 Game 2
Phillies 3              Rays one /11 innings
Cardinals 3                    Marlins 0
Orioles 14            Yankees 1
Red Sox 10                    Rangers 6
Mariners 5           Astros 1
Mets 9                  Diamondbacks 0
Dodgers 5             Pirates 2
NBA
Former Penn State star Jalen Pickett agreed to a four year, $8.3 million dollar deal with the champion Denver Nuggets.  Pickett was the 32nd pick in last months draft. NASCAR Sunday
Quaker State 400  Atlanta Motor Speedway
PreRace Coverage 6pm Green Flag Racing at 7pm on The Twin Valley’s Talk Radio network or WILQ’s HD3

TENNIS
Wimbledon  Third Round Men’s Singles Today
*(1) Novak Djokovic (JOKE a VITCH) of Serbia faces Stan Wawrinka of Switzerland today at 1:30pm Eastern
Saturday
* American (10) Frances Tiafoe  faces (21)  Grigor Dimitroff of Bulgaria @noon
*American (16) Tommy Paul is up against  LEE zhee LaHESH ka of the Czech Republic @Noon.
Third Round Women’s Singles Today
*(1) EEga SheeONtek of Poland goes up against Petra Martic of Croatia @ noon
*American Sophia Kenin faces Elina Svitolina of Ukraine at 11:30am

BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS JULY 6, 2023

ROAD RAGE SHOOTING ON ROUTE 15

A Tioga County man was taken into custody yesterday and is awaiting arraignment on felony charges for shooting at another motorist on Route 15 at the Beauty’s Run Road Exit at about 2:45 pm.  According to the Sun Gazette, state troopers from  Mansfield  say the road rage incident started with a fender bender in the city but escalated to the suspect firing shots as the two drivers traveled into Old Lycoming Township.  Once shots were fired the victim pulled over and called police who closed the ramp for two hours to search for ballistics evidence.  Police also searched for the suspects’ red Mazda and found it abandoned at an undisclosed location, and later took the suspect into custody.  Lycoming Regional Police have not released any more information about the incident.

POLICE SHOOT SUSPECT AFTER DOMESTIC INCIDENT

An investigation is expected in a Westmoreland County shooting of a suspect by police after a domestic disturbance last weekend.  According to Fox 29, Ligonier Valley police responded to a domestic incident at a residence and report that 59 year old Robbie Thomas Saunders came from the house armed with a machete and was using it aggressively. Officers fired one shot and Saunders was later pronounced dead at a Johnstown hospital.  County detectives will investigate  to determine whether the use of deadly force by the police was justified.

BRIDGE INSPECTION IN SUNBURY

Watch for a bridge inspection project today on Market Street in Sunbury. According to PennDOT says it will be inspecting the bridge that spans Shamokin Creek between Highland Avenue and Green Street. Motorists can expect a single lane restriction controlled by flaggers. Work will be performed between the hours of 7:30 AM and 2:30 PM, weather permitting. Get information 24/7 about road conditions in the commonwealth at 511pa dot com.

PA BUDGET GOES TO SHAPIRO’S DESK

The state House voted 117-86 to pass a proposed $45.5 billion state budget late Wednesday, sending the spending plan to Democratic Gov. Josh Shapiro’s desk for a signature. According to Penn Live, following Wednesday’s vote, Shapiro said the final budget is a “statement of our priorities.”  Democratic Gov. Josh Shapiro backed off his insistence on money for a new private-school funding program, giving the Democratic-controlled House the opening to approve a new state spending plan after a days-long stalemate.

JERSEY SHORE MAN ARRESTED FOR THREATENING WOMAN

A Jersey Shore man was taken into custody for threatening and injuring the accuser near the 200 block of North Broad Street on June 26th.  According to North Central PA dot com, Lycoming Regional Police say 32 year old Mubarik Abdul Graves allegedly left cuts and scrapes on a woman’s arms and threatened to shoot her over alleged infidelity. The woman called police and Graves was taken into custody charged with first-degree misdemeanor terroristic threats and harassment.  His bail was set at $30,000 monetary and he remains in Lycoming County Prison.

BOALSBURG WOMAN ARRESTED FOR ARSON

A woman from Boalsburg who allegedly started a fire in her apartment saying she didn’t want to live anymore is scheduled to appear in court this month for the incident that happened last January.  According to North Central PA dot com, neighbors called out to 43 year old Heather Meyers when they discovered the smoke and flames coming from her unit at the 500 block of Jacks Mills Drive and called 911, bringing State college first responders to the scene.  Meyers was charged with first-degree felony arson, and recklessly endangering another person and posted $5,000 unsecured bail.

FIRST FRIDAY IN WILLIAMSPORT TOMORROW

First Friday sponsored by UPMC North Central PA comes around tomorrow at the end of a shortened holiday week with events taking place in Downtown Williamsport on West Fourth St. between Market and Hepburn Streets.   Music is sponsored by Woodlands Bank and Van Campen Motors and features Coast to Coast on the Community Arts Center’s Outdoor Stage.  Enjoy Taste of Williamsport: A showcase of Williamsport restaurants to celebrate the unique cuisine and culinary arts in our community. Participating restaurants will offer small bites from 5 to 9pm.

WORK TO CLOSE WESTBOUND REST AREA ON I-80 NEXT WEEK

A Utility Project will temporarily close the I-80 WB rest area in Montour County next week.   PennDOT says the I-80 westbound rest area near mile marker 219 in Montour County is scheduled to close on Monday, July 10th for a water supply upgrade project. The restrooms and parking areas will be closed during the project, which is expected to take approximately two weeks to complete.  The I-80 eastbound rest area will remain open during this time.

SPORTS

MLB
Braves 8              Guardians  1
Astros  6              Rockies 4
A’s 12                 Tigers 3
Phillies  8            Rays 4
Marlins 10          Cardinals 9
Orioles 6             Yankees 3
Reds 9                 Nationals 2
Red Sox 4           Rangers 2
Twins 5               Royals 0
Cubs 4                 Brewers 3
Padres 5               Angels 3
Giants 2               Mariners 0
Mets 2                 Diamondbacks 1
Dodgers 6           Pirates 4
Blue Jays & White Sox postponed for rain

MLB Draft League
Cross cutters are off tonight, but go on the road for a 3-game series starting tomorrow in Maryland with the Frederick Keys 705 first pitch.  Back at home on the 11th to play Trenton Thunder

TENNIS
Wimbledon
*Women’s top seed  Poland’s Iga Swiatek ( EE ga    she ON teck) outclassed Spain’s Sara Tormo 6-2, 6-0 on Wednesday to sweep into the third round of Wimbledon.  It was Swiatek’s first match on Centre Court.

*Men’s  defending Champion, Novak Djokovic (JOKE a Vitch)   racked up Grand Slam victory number 350 by defeating Australia’s Jordan Thompson at Wimbledon yesterday 6-3 7-6 (4) 7-5 to move into the third round.

American Frances Tiafoe (also) advanced in straight sets against Wu Yibing.

BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS JULY 4, 2023

MAN ADMITS TO INAPPROPRIATE TOUCHING OF AMISH CHILDREN

A 27 year old Gordonville man admitted to touching a group of Amish children inappropriately after the group came forward and filed a complaint.  According to North Central Pa dot com, the five children ages three to ten came forward through a liason for the Amish community and Centre County Children and Youth said Gideon Byler abused them at his home last October. Byler needed a sign language interpreter to be interviewed by police.  He is facing first-degree misdemeanor indecent assault of a person younger than 13,  He is scheduled to appear in Court this August.

TORNADO CONFIRMED YESTERDAY IN LEWISBURG

The National Weather service did confirm a touchdown of a tornado Sunday in Lewisburg  that closed Southbound Route15 between Colonel John Kelly Road and Hospital Drive in Kelly Township and tore the roof off the ‘Just Lite It’ Fireworks store along West Branch Highway in Lewisburg.  Ty Drum, co-owner of ‘Just Lite it’ said there were customers in the store when the storm struck, but no one was injured.   ‘Just Lite It’ is waiting for PPL to inspect the location to see if they can open up again.  Drum says they have two other locations, one in Sunbury and one in Mill Hall, the Lock Haven Exit of I-80.

SHEETZ GIVING A BIG 4TH OF JULY DISCOUNT FOR GAS

Customers of Sheetz will enjoy a discount on gas today as they roll back prices per gallon to 1.776 a gallon to commemorate the signing of the declaration of independence on the 4th of July 1776.  President Travis Sheetz said that as a family company they are always looking for ways to assist the communities and customers that they serve as they travel today. The promotion will last all day, or while promotional gallons last. The discounted price will apply to their fuel grade offerings at all Sheetz locations across Pennsylvania, Maryland, Ohio, North Carolina, Virginia and West Virginia, but does not apply to any diesel fuel.

LYCO CONTROLLER HAS TAXABLE BENEFIT CONCERNS

County Controller Krista B. Rogers has recently raised  the issue as to whether a purchase of 37 cent wrist bands for sheriff’s deputies to wear are a taxable benefit.  According to PennLive, Rogers is not opposed to buying the bands but says she wants Sheriff R. Mark Lusk and the county to adhere to IRS rules over the uniform item.  Lusk says  he has documentation from the IRS supporting his position that the bands are not taxable.  Penn Live says Rogers has made similar decisions involving small amounts of money that have taken them to county court and later Commonwealth court over items such as work pants and gift cards.  Lusk says the bands that go on badges are not clothing. 

CLINTON COUNTY PLANS ROAD MAINTENANCE AFTER THE HOLIDAY

The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation Clinton County Maintenance announces work will continue this week on various roadways throughout Clinton County. Motorists should be aware the work will include sign repairs and upgrades, mowing and side dozing, box culvert repair and seal coating. Motorists should also be aware the due to the nature of highway maintenance and emergency work, crews could be working on any highway at any time of the day or night.

NEW PENNSYLVANIA STATE SONG BEING SOUGHT

The PA Legislature is considering replacing our state song after they say the current one was adopted  in 1990 and could use an update.  According to WFMZ, the House Democratic Communications Office said resolution H.R. 41, to replace the state song was adopted by a 138-64 vote.  Now an independent commission will be formed to study the history of the state song, solicit submissions from the public, and recommend changes.  The current state song is “Pennsylvania,” by Eddie Khoury, a retired PA prison administrator, and Ronnie Bonner.

SPORTS

MLB
Braves 4              Guardians 2
Astros 12             Rangers 11
Brewers 8           Cubs 6  
Reds 3                  Nationals 2
Marlins 5             Cardinals 4
Yankees 6           Orioles 3
Twins 8               Royals 4
Padres 10             Angels 3  
Mariners  6         Giants 5
Dodgers 5           Pirates 2

MLB Draft League
State College Spikes defeated the Williamsport Crosscutters on the road last night 3-1 Williamsport comes back home today to host State College with a 1:05pm first pitch.


TENNIS – Wimbledon
Women’s First Round Monday
Sofia Kenin, a fellow American seeded at 128th this week, defeated number 7 Coco Gauff  6-4, 4-6, 6-2
*In her 24th Wimbledon five time champion Venus Williams fell in the court, then dropped her first round match to 2019 Wimbledon semifinalist Elena Svitolina  6-4, 6-3

Men’s Tennis
Novak Djokovic began his record quest with a straight-sets Wimbledon victory over Argentine Pedro Cachin on Centre Court Monday.

The Four-time defending champion is seeking a men’s record-extending 24th Grand Slam title.

BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS JULY 3, 2023

TORNADOES STRIKE CENTRAL PA

Two tornadoes touched down in North Central Pennsylvania yesterday afternoon that caused severe damage at several area businesses and closed Route 15 in Kelly Township for several hours.  According to the National Weather Service, one tornado was reported to touch down at 4:15pm in  Mifflinville Columbia County and at 4:38 in  Milton, Northumberland County.  PennDOT, reported debris and wires down that closed Southbound Route15 between Colonel John Kelly Road and Hospital Drive in Kelly Township, Union County until after 11pm.  Lite It Fireworks along Westbranch Highway was partially destroyed by the tornado and areas of the Silver Moon Flea market were also damaged, according to pictures shared on Union County Firewire Facebook pages.  According to PennLive, no storm related injuries were reported at Evangelical Community Hospital.

MONTGOMERY MAN DIES IN CRASH

A fatal crash in West Buffalo Township claimed the life of a Montgomery man and DUI charges for another. According to police, 30-year-old Spencer Charles died as a result of his injuries. State police say the accident occurred in the area of 2300 Grand Valley Road, closing the roadway for hours. State police say 35-year-old Benjamin Martin of Mifflinburg has been charged with multiple felonies including homicide by motor vehicle while DUI. There is no report as to Martin’s injuries.

NEW POLLING PLACES APPROVED

Moving the polling locations to school buildings was approved by the Board of Elections this week. According to the SUN Gazette, the move was a last resort effort to move Lycoming County into compliance with American with Disabilities Act (ADA) requirements. Reports say Williamsport Area School District will house three of the polling places, with 11th and 12th wards going to Cochran Elementary and the 7th Ward at the Williamsport Area Middle School. Meanwhile other polling moves approved included Muncy Creek Township and Williamsport 4th and 9th Wards.

EVERETT TO BE HONORED WITH BOAT LAUNCH

Representative Garth Everett will be honored posthumously with a new boat launch access area being named for him in Muncy, a project that Everett himself was an advocate.  According to a press release from Senator Gene Yaw, the Senate passed House Bill 1031, sponsored by Representative Joe Hamm,  to see the boat launch through to reality for use in rural Lycoming County.  Representative Everett was elected to seven terms representing the 84th district, then choosing not to seek reelection in 2020, he passed away in January.

NO POWER OUTAGES LINGER TODAY AFTER TORNADOES

There are no power outages reported on the PPL outage map this morning after tornadoes touched down in Central PA yesterday.  According to Facebook posts on Union County Firewire, debris and wires came down along the West Westbranch Highway and Silvermoon  Fleamarket along Route 15 after tornadoes were reported.  They touched down at 4:15pm in Mifflinville, Columbia County and at 4:38 in  Milton, Northumberland County.   The NWS also reported a touchdown in Union County between 4:30 and 5 p.m. in Kelly Township near Lewisburg.  According to PennLive, areas of Dauphin County north of Harrisburg also experienced storm activity that brought down trees and wires.

PA POLICE TO CRACK DOWN ON AGGRESSIVE DRIVING

State police and Shamokin Dam Police will join over 300 law enforcement agencies to work to curtail aggressive driving next week. Starting this Wednesday through August 20, officers say any aggressive driver stopped by police will receive at ticket.  The goal of this enforcement is to reduce the number of aggressive driving-related crashes, injuries, and deaths on roadways throughout the state, with a focus on heavy truck violations, pedestrian safety, red light running, and tailgating. Motorists exhibiting other unsafe behaviors such as speeding, following too closely, or other aggressive actions will also be cited.

FORMER ASSISTANT DA NEW LYCOMING COUNTY JUDGE

According to Senator Gene Yaw, Kirsten Gardner was nominate by Governor Shapiro and confirmed by the full Senate as Lycoming County Magisterial District Judge, replacing retired Judge Jon Kemp, after winning both the Republican and Democratic primaries in May. Prior to her confirmation, Gardner served as an Assistant District Attorney with the Lycoming County District Attorney’s office where she has prosecuted hundreds of adult and juvenile cases, including those involving special victims, violent crimes, and homicides.

FIREWORKS RULES FOR THE 4TH

This 4th of July, the Williamsport Bureau of Police reminds residents fireworks cannot be ignited or discharged on public or private property without the express permission of the property owner, fireworks cannot be discharged from or within a motor vehicle or building, toward a motor vehicle or building or within 150 feet of an occupied structure or while the person is under the influence of alcohol, a controlled substance, or another drug. Any violation of these provisions could be subject to a fine of up to $600 and/or imprisonment of up to 90 days.

SPORTS

MLB
Guardians 8        Cubs 6
Orioles 2             Twins 1
Braves 6              Marlins 3
Nationals 5         Phillies 4
Brewers 6            Pirates 3
Red Sox 5           Blue Jays 4
Reds 4                 Padres 3
Royals 9              Dodgers 1
Cardinals 5         Yankees 1
Astros 5               Rangers 3
Tigers 14             Rockies 9
Angels 5              Diamondbacks 2
White Sox 8         A’s 7
Mariners 7          Rays 6
Mets 8                 Giants 4

MLB Draft League
Crosscutters was canceled last night ending the weekend tied up 1-1 with the Trenton Thunder.  The Cutters head to State College tonight but play the Spikes at home July 4th with a 1:05pm first pitch

NASCAR
34-year-old Shane Van Gisbergen  from New Zealand, who is the first driver to win his Cup series Debut since Johnny Rutherford at Daytona in1963, won the Grant park 220 in downtown Chicago Sunday, followed by Justin Haley and Chase Elliott, Kyle  Larson, and Kyle  Busch

COMPETETIVE EATING
The Nathan’s Hot Dog Eating Contest is tomorrow. Joey Chestnut and Miki Sudo, two food-eating legends, will be returning to defend their titles 10:45am for the women’s and noon for the men’s competition. Joey Chestnut is expected to win the men’s annual event for the 16th time.   The competition is at Surf and Stillwell Avenues on Coney Island in Brooklyn, N.Y., where competitors see who can consume the most hot dogs (with buns) in a 10-minute span.

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