BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS JANURY 27, 2023

MIDDLE SCHOOL STUDENT THREATNED MILTON SCHOOL

The Milton Area school will be in session today with an increased police presence after administrators and police identified the student responsible for social media threats to the school yesterday, forcing a closure.  According to a statement by Superintendent Dr. John Bickhart, through the Safe2Say Something tipline and a police investigation, they found the Milton Area middle school student who created a fake social media account of another student to carry out the threats.  At this time there is no threat to the school students or staff, with the student in police custody to face juvenile charges.  Milton Area students will have access to full counseling services that will be available at the school.

WILLIAMSPORT MAN IN CUSTODY OVER POINTING A GUN AT TWO PEOPLE

The man who denied pointing a gun at two people in a car at the Sheetz on North Route 220 on the evening of January 5th, has been jailed after police saw surveillance footage of the incident.  According to North Central PA dot com, 24 year old Ashton Streck and his brother were in Streck’s car the night the accusers told police they were threatened at the store. Streck went to State police barracks the evening of the incident denying being in possession of the gun, but police had authority to search for and seize a Glock 9 mm handgun from him.  He was charged with two counts each of first-degree misdemeanor terroristic threats, simple assault, and recklessly endangering another person.  Streck’s preliminary hearing is February 8th.

TEEN DRIVER HITS SELINSGROVE BUILDING

A teen driver with a permit who was driving with her mother as a passenger, crashed into a business in Selinsgrove Tuesday night after losing control of the car.  According to the Daily Item, police say the unidentified girl was insured and not cited for the accident that shattered the glass front of the Edward Jones Financial building on North Market Street.  Damage estimates are at about 75 thousand dollars.

PA WILDS PARTNERSHIP INITIATIVE

PA Wilds Center for Entrepreneurship and Leave no Trace is developing a PA Wilds Leave No Trace Initiative for members of the Wilds Cooperative of Pennsylvania network, which currently includes more than 475 businesses, nonprofits and communities.  The partnership focuses on encouraging stewardship principles safely with fewer environmental impacts.  PA Wilds Leave No Trace Partners gain access to free branding tools and educational resources. Join the Wilds Cooperative of PA for free and learn more at www.WildsCoPA.org/join

ROAD RAGE INCIDENT HAS LINDEN MAN FACING CHARGES

A Linden man was released on 25 thousand dollars bail after a road rage incident in which he allegedly struck another man with his car while leaving a parking lot along Maynard street Wednesday morning.  According to the Sun Gazette, police say 47 year old Christian Mundell was charged with a felony count of aggravated assault after claiming his victim, Chad Cashwell was following him in another car. The incident escalated  to a parking lot where Cashwell was out of his car taking pictures before he was hit by Mundell as he left the area. No word on Cashwell’s injuries today.

POLICE CHASE, APPREHEND SHOPLIFTER IN ANOTHER STORE

A Selinsgrove man was chased by police on foot through several stores Tuesday after being caught shoplifting.  According to North Central PA dot com, 29 year old Corey White was caught allegedly taking items from Ulta Beauty store  and when State police arrived, he fled, running toward the Giant grocery store in the Monroe Marketplace shopping center.  Police apprehended White in the store, recovering the stolen items and charging him with retail theft and flight to avoid apprehension.

ABANDONED WILLIAMSPORT HOUSE TO BE RAZED

An abandoned house owned by Penn College that city officials say is structurally unsound, will be razed.  According to the Sun Gazette, City Council gave permission for the property at 917-919 Second Street to be torn down in anticipation for the area to be utilized near a new gateway entrance into the western area of the city of Williamsport, also known as an area with advanced traffic signals that allow vehicles – including ambulances – to move quickly through lighted intersections from I-180 to UPMC Williamsport.  Crews are preparing for development nearby with a demolition scheduled for the foundry along Maynard Street as well.

CASINO COMING TO CENTRE COUNTY

The former Macy’s department store in College Township, Centre County will be the home of a new casino soon.  According to North Central PA dot com, The PA Gaming Board awarded a Category 4 slot machine license to SC Gaming OpCo, LLC, in a process started by Ira Lubert.  A Category 4 Slot Machine License permits the entity to operate between 300 and 750 slot machines which are reportedly to be operated by Bally’s Corporation.  Also planned are 30 table games, retail facility sports wagering, an entertainment stage, and quick-serve food and beverage outlets. There’s no official target date for opening.

SPORTS

PIAA District 4
Boys Basketball
North Penn-Mansfield 60       Towanda 34
Mount Carmel 61                    Tamaqua 55
Wellsboro 56                           Athens 36
Williamsport 80                       Tyrone 61
Canton 53                               Northeast Bradford 49
Troy 69                                    Wyalusing 51
Bucktail 45                              Millville 36
North Penn-Liberty 57            Cowanesque Valley 41

Girls Basketball
Loyalsock 60               Warrior Run 32
Shamokin 47               Mifflinburg 28
Montoursville 50         Midd-West 17
Minersville 69             Lourdes Regional 48
Bishop McDevitt 54   Williamsport 27


NBA
Knicks 120         Celtics 117
Pistons 130         Nets 122
Hornets 111        Bulls 96
Cavaliers 113     Rockets 95
Mavericks 99      Suns 95
Clippers 138       Spurs 100


NHL
Capitals 3            Penguins 2
Wild 3                 Flyers 2
Red Wings 4       Canadiens 3
Lightning 3         Bruins 2
Predators 6          Devils 4
Sabres 3              Jets 2
Coyotes 5            Blues 0
Blackhawks 5     Flames 1
Ducks 5               Avalanche 3

NCAA Men’s Basketball
Purdue 75                     Michigan 70
Arizona 63                    Washington State 58
USC 77                         UCLA 64
Florida Atlantic 85      Middle Tennessee 67

NFL

NFC & AFC Championships Sunday, January 29
49ers vs Eagles 3pm on FOX
Bengals vs Chiefs 6:30pm on CBS

BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS JANUARY 26, 2023

FORMER SHOP-VAC EMPLOYEE FILES SUIT IN FEDERAL COURT

A former Shop-Vac employee who was affected by the shut-down in September 2020 has now asked for class action lawsuit certification against the Williamsport Company in federal court on behalf of her and 400 employees who were also terminated.  According to Penn Live, Candice Gair filed a complaint in 2021 saying Shop-Vac violated the WARN Act when they shut down the company in September of 2021 without a mandatory 60 day notice.  Gair also filed an amendment to the complaint adding Great Star as a defendant as the company who purchased Shop-Vac’s assets and continues its operations.  Great Star says in court documents that they were a faltering company and are not required to follow the WARN Act. The suit is seeking unpaid wages, benefits, vacation and pension contributions.

WATER TESTING FOR FOREVER CHEMICALS TO START IN 2024

Water in Pennsylvania will be regulated next year for a maximum limit of two certain chemicals found in about of the quarter of drinking water in the state. According to North Central PA dot com, the Bay Journal reports, that Pennsylvania’s Environmental Quality Board have flagged the two contaminants PFOA’s and PFOS’s, known by some as “forever chemicals” for their link to decreased fertility, developmental delays for children and reduced immunity.  The levels will now require monitoring after January 1, 2024 in water systems serving more than 350 people.  Smaller systems have until January of 2025 to monitor for the chemicals.  There is legislation in the PA Senate to reduce the use of firefighting foams that contain PFASs.

NEW POLLING PLACE IN LOYALSOCK TOWNSHIP

Lycoming County Voter Services has announced a new polling place in Loyalsock Township for the next two elections in the cycle of 2023.  According to the Sun Gazette, the voters in Loyalsock Township’s 7th precinct who would normally vote at Greenview Alliance Church on Warrensville Road will vote at Saint Ann Roman Catholic Church on Northway Road on May 16th and November 7th this year.  If you have questions about the change email [email protected].

LEAD IN AMMO, SINKERS, A THREAT TO WILDLIFE

A bald eagle found injured in Mifflinburg and brought under the care of Centre Wildlife Care, died last week from lead poisoning after coming in contact with or eating roadkill meat that was contaminated with lead shotgun pellets or sinkers from fishing.  According to North Central PA dot com, experts at the rehab center say many birds and other wildlife can suffer from lead poisoning and say just one lead pellet in a bird can be deadly.  They ask that outdoorsmen consider the impact their ammo choices have on the environment and suggest using the lead ammo you may have on hand for targets and use non-lead ammo for hunting.  Go to centrewildlife.org for more information.

POLICE INVESTIGATING HUMMELS WHARF CAR BREAK-INS

State police in Selinsgrove are investigating after there were reports of thefts from vehicles that were parked at a Hummels Wharf restaurant.  According to police reports, during business hours windows were broken of locked cars and items were taken from the vehicle.  Witnesses say they saw three men fleeing the scene in a dark blue Toyota Highlander.  Troopers said they recovered items that had been stolen strewn along Routes 11-15 north. If you have information about the theft, contact State Police in Selinsgrove.

RECOUNT COST LESS THAN ANTICIPATED

The cost of the hand recount of the November 2020 ballots undertaken by the Lycoming County Voter Services after it was requested by citizens concerned about fraud, turned out to be much less than originally thought.  According to the Sun Gazette, County Commissioners Scott Metzger said the cost of the recount came in at 11 thousand 452 dollars and 97 cents which is about 10 cents from each resident in the county.  Metzger also praised the Director of Voter Services, Forest Lehman for managing the work who said the process did not uncover any fraud or rogue uncounted ballots.  Local lawyer Karen DiSalvo said during the public comment period at the Board of Elections meeting that they will next target alleged fraud in military and overseas ballots.

NEW CHIEF OF POLICE IN LOCK HAVEN

There is a new police chief in Lock Haven.  According to the Daily Item Chief Matthew Rickard was officially sworn in Monday night by Mayor Joel Long.  Rickard had been serving as Assistant police chief since September, and took over after Kristin Smith retired from the department in December.  Rickard is former marine and a Lock Haven High School and Indiana University graduate, who started his career in Woodward Township, then moved to Centre County and finally came to Lock Haven in 2020.

RIVER OF THE YEAR AWARDED TO LOCAL WATERWAY

The North Branch of the Susquehanna was named the state’s 2023 River of the Year by a public vote.   The river that flows from the New York state line to Sunbury near Shikellamy State Park touches eight Pennsylvania counties.  According to DCNR 11,438 votes were cast, with Susquehanna River North Branch receiving the most votes 4,098; followed by the Perkiomen Creek 3,110; Conestoga River 2,490; and Schuylkill River 1,740. Endless Mountains Heritage Region who nominated the river, will receive a $10,000 Leadership Grant for 2023 River of the Year activities.

SPORTS

NBA
76ers 137                      Nets 133
Magic 126                     Pacers 120
Wizards 108                 Rockets 103
Bucks 107                     Nuggets 99
Timberwolves 111      Pelicans 102  
Hawks 137                   Thunder 132
Warriors 122                Grizzlies 120
Trailblazers 134           Jazz 124
Raptors 113                  Kings 95
Lakers 113                    Spurs 104

NHL
Senators 2           Islanders 1
Maple Leafs 3     Rangers 2  
Hurricanes 3       Stars 2
Blue Jackets 3     Oilers 2
Kraken 6             Canucks 1

NCAA Men’s Basketball
Alabama 66        Mississippi State 63
Houston 82         UCF 71
Tennessee 70      Georgia 41
Xavier 82            UConn 79
Texas A&M 79 Auburn 63
Providence 79    Butler 58

BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS JANUARY 25, 2023

PENNDOT SETS TIER ONE RESTRICTIONS AHEAD OF SNOW

PennDOT has issued vehicle restrictions as we head into the winter storm today which is forecast to bring several inches of snow with a winter weather advisory until about 7pm tonight. There will be Tier 1 restrictions early this morning for I-80 from I-79 to I-180, parts of the Turnpike and all of I-99.  At noon the restrictions spread to I-80 from i-180 to New Jersey, I-81 from the turnpike to the NY border, and the Northeast extension.  Tier one means no Tractors without trailers or lightly loaded trailers, RVs and passenger cars towing trailers.  Watch 511PA dot com for all PennDOT road closures and accident updates.

COUPLE CRASHED SUV INTO BUSINESS WHILE ARGUING

A local woman and her boyfriend crashed their vehicle into a business yesterday after police say they were fighting while driving in Williamsport.  According to the Sun Gazette, 45 year old Heather James of Williamsport was driving the SUV when her passenger 57 year old Nicholas Cardenis allegedly jerked the wheel causing James to lose control of the car, crashing into the outside brick wall of 2310 Apparel along the 3000 block of Lycoming Creek Road. Both James and Cardenis were transported by ambulance to UPMC Williamsport.  Old Lycoming Township Police said the crash knocked the rear of the building off  it’s’ foundation, which will require repairs and an inspection before the store can operate again.

LOYALSOCK MAN FACING CHILD PORN CHARGES

A Loyalsock Township man has been arraigned and is now scheduled to appear in Lycoming County Court January 30th for a preliminary hearing after he was accused of exchanging drugs for nude photographs and videos of a minor.  According to the Sun Gazette, the juvenile came forward to police about 59 year old Randy Scott Baker, who she accused of exploiting her over a year to get 38 photos and a video and giving her marijuana, marijuana vape pens, and money.  Police say Baker has now been charged with up to 100 counts each of second-degree felonies of a depiction of a child and and third-degree felony child pornography.  He was released on 75 thousand dollars unsecured bail.

UNCOLLECTED REAL ESTATE TAXES TO GO TO COLLECTION

Over 938 thousand dollars of unpaid 2022 real estate taxes have been turned in to the Lycoming County Tax Claim Bureau.  According to the Sun Gazette, the city treasurer, Kevin Mackey has attempted to collect the taxes but asked for city council to approve the list of uncollected taxes to be handed over for collection. 

POLICE INVESTIGATING MONDAY’S RURAL AVENUE SHOOTING

Williamsport Police are not releasing any information about a shooting that occurred earlier this week along the 500 block of Rural avenue.  According to the  Sun Gazette, officers say they went to the scene of the shooting Monday night just before 9:30, where a home was struck but there were no reports of any injuries.  Williamsport police are investigating the incident and are asking that if anyone has any information nabout details related to the shooting, to call 327-7548.

MAN ACCUSED OF POINTING GUN AT TWO PEOPLE

A Williamsport man has been accused of pointing a handgun at two people in a vehicle January 5th in Woodward Township.  According to the Sun Gazette, 24 year old Ashton Robert Streck allegedly gestured and then pointed a gun toward the victim and Streck’s brother while driving by in his car.  Streck denied pointing the gun which he has a permit to carry.  He has been charged with two counts of recklessly endangering another person and simple assault and will receive a summons.

GIFT BAN LOOSENED IN THE COMMONEWEALTH UNDER SHAPIRO

New PA Governor Josh Shapiro has rolled back a gift ban slightly to allow for a free lunch for top officials in the Commonwealth.  According to PennLive, Democratic Governor, Tom Wolf had in place, a ban on gifts and meals that began when he came into office following the administration that endured some ethics scandals involving gifts from people allegedly attempting to influence state action.  Shapiro’s changes include the ability to have a free water bottle or a meal when attending an event in an official capacity, as well as accept nominal gifts like pens, calendars and appropriate gifts for big life events like marriage, illness or retirement.

SPORTS

P I-AA District 4
Boys Basketball

Muncy 80                    Benton 46
St John Neumann 88   CMVT 38
Lewisburg 51              Mifflinburg 46
Selinsgrove 50             Jersey Shore 38
So. Columbia 59         Hughesville 56
Sullivan County 66     Montgomery 45  
Sayre 73                      Wyalusing 69
Central Mountain 85   Milton 64
Athens 59                    Canton 22
Shamokin 76               Shikellamy 49
Girls Basketball
St. John Neumann 98 CMVT 4

NBA

Pacers 116          Bulls 110
Heat 98                Celtics 95
Knicks 105         Cavaliers 103
Nuggets 99          Pelicans 98
Wizards 127       Mavericks 126
Suns 128             Hornets 97
Clippers 133       Lakers 115

NHL
Kings 4                Flyers 3
Penguins 7          Panther 6
Red Wings 3       Sharks 2
Bruins 4              Canadians 2
Lightning 4         Wild 2
Devils 3               Golden Knights 2
Predators 2          Jets 1
Sabers 5              Blues 3
Ducks 5               Coyotes 2
Avalanche 3        Capitals 2
Canucks 5           Blackhawks 2


NCAA Men’s Basketball
Iowa State 80      Kansas State 76
Texas 89             Oklahoma State 75
TCU 79               Oklahoma 52
Miami 86            Florida State 63  
Clemson 72        Georgia Tech 51

BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS JANUARY 24, 2023

WINTER WEATHER ON THE WAY

Expect extra truck traffic today on the roadways for the calm before the storm and you’ll see a winter weather advisory overnight tonight through Wednesday evening. According to Accuweather, we’ll see 3 to six inches of snow, with sleet and freezing rain possible.  Tomorrow’s morning commute is expected to be affected by the snow which could change to sleet and rain by 4pm tomorrow afternoon which could also affect the afternoon drive, especially in the higher elevations. 

LOYALSOCK MAN JAILED FOR FIRING GUN AT NEIGHBORS

The case of a Loyalsock Township man who allegedly fired a gun outside his home into a crowd of people on January 7th will be held for court after a judge heard from witnesses yesterday.  According to the Sun Gazette Coy Thornton and a couple who live next door on Walters Road had a verbal argument, until Thornton, who witnesses say was drunk, came from his home with a handgun and fired shots toward the people outside.  40 year old Thornton is facing six counts of attempted homicide, aggravated assault and a count of DUI.  He is in Lycoming County Prison in lieu of 250 thousand dollars bail.

MAN WITH ANKLE MONITOR STEALS FROM GARAGE

A Cogan Station man has been arrested for stealing catalytic converters in Jersey Shore while wearing a GPS ankle monitor from another criminal matter.  According to the Sun Gazette, 30 year old Derrick Leonard Carson who was under supervised bail, was allegedly placed at Schweitzer’s Garage on Route 880 around the same time three catalytic converters went missing from cars in the shop. Carson is incarcerated under 35 thousand dollars bail at Lycoming County Prison.

UNEMPLOYMENT LEVEL DROPPING IN PA

The unemployment rate in Pennsylvania has fallen, dropping below 4 percent for the first time.  In a news release from the Department of Labor and Industry Payrolls and the workforce grew, but remain below pre-pandemic record levels.  In a survey of Pennsylvania households, the labor force grew by 9,000 to above 6.4 million.  In a separate survey of employers, non-farm payrolls in Pennsylvania grew in December by 17,000, driven primarily by hiring in construction and professional and business services.  Pennsylvania has regained more than 90% of the 1.1 million jobs lost in the early months of COVID.

WOMAN ARRESTED FOR LEAVING TODDLER UNATTENDED

A Williamsport woman has been charged with endangering the welfare of a child after police say she left a toddler unattended in a locked car while she played at a slot machine at a market on Lycoming Creek Road.  According to the Sun Gazette, 25 year old Akyra Diane Day allegedly spent up to 30 minutes away from the car January 10th around 3:45pm, which drew concern from witnesses.  Day faces felony child endangerment, disorderly conduct and more.  She is free on 15 thousand dollars bail.

MAN CLAIMS SOMEONE FOLLOWED, SHOT AT HIM

A Williamsport man has waived his preliminary hearing after police say he claimed someone shot a gun at him in Williamsport, but no evidence was uncovered to prove a shooting happened.  According to court records, 31year-old Mikahil Gregory Jones who also faces charges of felony strangulation from another case, called 911 multiple times telling police he was being followed by a man on a bicycle and that someone had shot at him on West Third Street.  Jones made at least 7 more calls to 911 claiming more evidence of someone following or watching him.  Police took Jones into custody January 12th just before midnight.  He’ll have a formal arraignment February 6th.

NEW BOARD MEMBER AT DRIVE

The five-county regional economic development Council of Governments, DRIVE has appointed Dr. Bashar W. Hanna, president of Commonwealth University to serve on the Board of Directors. According to the Daily Item, DRIVE which stands for Driving Real Innovation for a Vibrant Economy , provides professional services to help businesses create and retain family-sustaining jobs.  As well as facilitate new business development through collaboration with state and local partners.

ATHLETIC COURTS TO BE RESURFACED

There is a proposal in Williamsport to resurface the six sets of athletic courts in the city using a portion of the funds from the American Rescue Plan, Community Development Block Grants and private donations.  According to the Sun Gazette, there’s a bid package of 858 thousand dollars by RC Bowman of Mill Hall and if approved by city council then Mayor Slaughter said the upgrades can improve property value and increase safety in neighborhoods. Tentative plans include new and resurfaced pickleball courts at Cochran Primary, Shaw Place Park, Memorial Park, plus basketball upgrades to Youngs Woods, and Shaw Place Park.

SPORTS

PIAA Distict 4
Boys Basketball
Benton 43                   Meadowbrook Christian 33
Wellsboro 59               North Penn-Liberty 31
Williamsport 62           Harrisburg 56
Bellefonte 59              Loyalsock 54
Upper Dauphin 52      Line Mountain 43

Girls Basketball
Lewisburg 45              Williamsport 43
Mount Carmel 40        Palmerton 35
Hughesville 48            Mifflinburg 43
Loyalsock 52               Danville 42
Jersey Shore 46           Muncy 26
Southrn Columbia 56 Montoursville 37
St. John Neumann 55  Warrior Run 51
Central Mountain 37   Milton 23


NFL Sunday, January 29, 2023
NFC Championship
San Francisco 49ers @ Philadelphia Eagles 3pm FOX
AFC Championship
Cincinnati Bengals @ Kansas City chiefs 6:30pm on CBS



NBA
Bucks 150           Pistons 130
Magic 113           Celtics 98
Bulls 111            Hawks 100
Rockets 119        Timberwolves 114
Jazz 120              Hornets 102
Trailblazers 147 Spurs 127
Kings 133           Grizzlies 100

NHL

Rangers 6            Panthers 2
Maple Leafs 5     Islanders 2
Sabers 3              Stars 2
Flames 4              Blue Jackets 3

NCAA Men’s Basketball
Baylor 75            Kansas 69
Nevada 97           New Mexico 94 2/OT

BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS JANUARY 23, 2023

WOMAN SENTENCED FOR STARVING TWO YOUNG SISTERS

Twenty seven year old Echo Butler, who plead guilty to two counts of criminal conspiracy to commit murder was sentenced  to two consecutive life terms in state prison without the possibility of parole.  According to the Sun Gazette, the courtroom was full of family and friends of the victims, 6 year old Nicole Elisabeth and 4 year old Jasmin Jean Snyder, who died of starvation under the care of Butler and their mother, Marie Snyder.  During an investigation police discovered the girls bodies in a shallow grave behind a mobile home belonging to a family member in Hepburn Township in November 2021.

NEW POOL FILTER FOR CITY FACILITY

Williamsport City Council has approved the use of American Rescue Plan funds to purchase a pool filter in order to get the facility ready for a summer opening.  According to the Sun Gazette, the cost of the system is just about 270 thousand dollars, and should be installed in about a month.  Other American Rescue Plan funds were awarded to GPI Engineering to design a levee pump station, with a remaining 1.7 million dollars left in the ARP funds for future construction management.

COMMISSIONERS WANT TO ID DANGEROUS INTERSECTIONS

The Lycoming County Commissioners are looking for the public’s help in finding dangerous intersections within the county.  According to the Sun Gazette, the Lycoming County transportation department is revising and updating the transportation plan for the county, and are looking for information about the most dangerous intersections with red lights in Lycoming County.  Commissioner Tony Mussare is urging the public to report the areas they’re most concerned about, by calling the transportation department at 570-320-2138.  The Commissioners next meeting is January 26th at 10am at 330 Pine Street.

DIGITAL DRIVER’S LICENSE COULD BE COMING TO PA

Pennsylvania Lawmakers are working to accelerate the digital driver’s license plan for the state. The new legislation would not eliminate the need for a physical copy of the license, but would provide an additional way for people to present identification.  According to Patch dot com, the bill calls for PennDOT  to develop an app for downloading and renewing licenses for a reasonable fee. The concept is already in use in 10 states, including Ohio, Connecticut, Kentucky, and others.

WALMART CASHIER CHARGED WITH THEFT

A man working as a cashier at the Montoursville Walmart has been charged with felony retail theft for scanning items for customers without ringing them up last November and December.  According to North Central PA dot com, 18 year old Jaheem Brown passed items without actually scanning them seven times before loss-prevention officers who saw video of the incidents called Montoursville police January 7th.  Brown was arrested and posted 75hundred dollars bail  and will have a preliminary hearing January 30th.

PLAYERS ACCUSED OF HAZING, WAIVE PRELIMINARY HEARING

The four Mount Carmel area football players accused of a hazing incident in 2020 have waived their preliminary hearings to Northumberland County Court last week.  According to the News Item, the cases for Tyler Owens, Michael Balichik, Reed Witkoski and Damon Dowkus will head directly to court. The alleged incidents happened at watch parties the team held in 2020. When reports of the incident were brought to the attention of school officials, they cancelled the remainder of the 2020 football season. Magisterial District Judge William Cole, was originally to hear the case but recused himself.

DAN MEUSER SUPPORTS LEVEE IMPROVEMENTS

A federal lawmaker U.S. Rep. Dan Meuser, R-Dallas, representing the new 9th Congressional District recently met to lend his support on several important local projects in and around the City of Williamsport. As reported by Sun Gazette, Meuser voiced his support on levee recertification including talk of possible federal money to be earmarked toward the continuing improvements needed on the levee, which must be improved otherwise those protected by it must pay untenable flood insurance.

HOSPITAL TO CONVERT TO OUTPATIENT EMERGENCY DEPARTMENT

UPMC Lock Haven is about to work with the Pennsylvania Department of Health to convert services at UPMC Lock Haven to an outpatient emergency department -the first of its kind in the commonwealth.  The facility will be staffed 24/7 by a comprehensive team of physicians and nurses with UPMC specialists continuing to offer outpatient services in Lock Haven. UPMC in North Central Pa. intends to retain and incorporate 100% of the Lock Haven employees by placing them in comparable positions at UPMC facilities in the region.

SPORTS

NFL Saturday
Eagles 38            Giants 7
Chiefs 27            Jaguars 20
NFL Sunday
49ers 19              Cowboys 12
Bengals 27          Bills 10
Sunday, January 29
NFC Championship

49ers in the Eagles 3pm on FOX
AFC Championship
Bengals vs the Chiefs 6:30pm on CBS

NBA
Clippers 112       Mavericks 98
Heat 100             Pelicans 96
Raptors 125        Knicks 116
Thunder 101       Nuggets 99
Suns 112             Grizzlies 110
Nets 120              Warriors 116
Lakers  121         Trailblazers 112

NHL

Devils 2               Penguins 1
Jets 5                   Flyers 3
Bruins 4              Sharks 0
Kings 2                Blackhawks 1
Coyotes 4            Golden Knights 1

NCAA Men’s Basketball
Temple 56                    Houston 55
Purdue 58                     Maryland 55
UConn 86                     Butler 56

BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS JANUARY 20, 2023

LOCAL MAN ARRESTED FOR THREATENING STUDENTS ON THE PHONE

A local man is in custody after he made threats to a group of students from Loyalsock High School on a conference phone call on January 4th.  According to North Central PA dot com, 18 year old Dejuan Angel Rivera of Williamsport allegedly told the Loyalsock students participating in the call that he would blow up their school and neighborhoods.  State police at Montoursville heard a recording of the phone call and began the investigation into Rivera.  He was charged with 3 counts of misdemeanor terroristic threats.  He is in Lycoming County Prison in lieu of 15 thousand dollars bail with a preliminary hearing January 23rd.

SHAMOKIN COUPLE ARRESTED FOR CHILD ENDANGERMENT

A couple in Shamokin are now facing felony child endangerment charges after a police investigation from last July, revealed a 90 day old baby in their care had fractured ribs in various stages of healing.  According to the Daily Item, 37 year old Randy Taby and 36 year old Mandy Cree were charged with felony endangering the welfare of a child. Taby was charged with two counts of aggravated assault.  Taby told police he may have squeezed the child too tightly out of frustration from the baby crying.

CVR DOCUMENTS WILL REMAIN SEALED UNTIL FINAL APPEAL

After the Department of State decided to appeal a judge’s ruling over the decision by the Office of Open Records  to keep CVR’s or cast vote records confidential, the stay of the information will continue now until the appeal is resolved.  According to the Sun Gazette,  court records say the Office of Open Records said disclosure of the information in the CVR’s could violate the constitutional guarantee of voting secrecy and according to Penn Live, a state appellate court has never ruled on whether CVR’s are public.  The appeal is now in Commonwealth Court.

DEMOLITION OF LOCAL HOTEL

Watch for demolition to begin in Valley Township today when crews will take down the Days Inn starting at about 8:30am. According to the Daily Item, the hotel was built in the 1960s and operated as a Sheraton, until it changed affiliation to Days Inn starting a long road of deterioration from lack of upkeep starting in 2000. Most recently a sale was approved by a Montour County Judge to the Liberty Group of Montoursville, who have made plans to demo the property this week, then add a 100-unit Holiday Inn, two free-standing restaurants, which were not named, and a four-store mini-mall on the site.

NURSING HOME EMPLOYEE SOLD COCAINE AT THE FACILITY

A former employee at the former nursing care facility Embassy of Loyalsock has been charged with felony possession with intent to deliver and more when he allegedly sold cocaine to a confidential informant in the parking lot of the business.  According to North Central PA dot com, Douglas Christopher Curtis, Jr. made the drug exchange for 200 dollars in marked bills with undercover troopers January 3rd.  Police say the substance was confirmed to be cocaine and Curtis was incarcerated with bail set at 25 thousand dollars.  His preliminary hearing is January 23rd.

TWO APPOINTMENTS FOR WATER AND SEWER AUTHORITY

Williamsport’s Economic Revitalization Committee reviewed two appointments for the Williamsport Municipal Water and Sanitary Authority presented by Mayor Derek Slaughter this week.  According to the Sun Gazette, the committee will consider a reappointment of a five-year term for Kent Trachte, and a new appointment ending in December 2028 for Katie deSilva who is a retired Clinton County Planner with a history of water and sewer authority experience.  Mayor Slaughter noted that one position is still open on the authority that he will consider presenting a new candidate to the committee soon.

APPLICATIONS AVAILABLE FOR DCNR CONSERVATION GRANTS

Applications for Department of Conservation and Natural Resources conservation, recreation, trail and buffer grants are being accepted from eligible parties until April 5th according to a press release from Senator Gene Yaw.  Yaw says over the past 20 years, the Community Conservation Partnerships Program (C2P2) has funded over 4,000 projects that have helped, plan and develop parks, recreation facilities, trails, and conserved critical conservation areas and watersheds. Links to online tutorials about the application process are available at dcnr.pa.gov.  Part of the source of the federal funding comes from Pennsylvania’s natural gas impact fee.

K9 OFFICER IN WATSONTOWN RETIRES

Canine Mariska,  a member of the Watsontown Police Department and 6 year old Belgian Malinois retired  last week after serving as part of the canine unit there since 2019.  According to North Central PA dot com, the canine program was started in 2017 in response to a growing drug epidemic in Northumberland County.  Mariska’s handler, Sergeant Timothy A. Kiefaber, said after over 77 duty deployments as a single-purpose narcotics dog, and over 28 public demonstrations for schools, civic groups, and churches, Mariska can retire with a forever spot as a member of his family now.  Her care and feeding will be provided by monetary donations to the Police K9 Project.

SPORTS

PIAA District 4
Boys Basketball

South Williamsport 67 Northumberland Christian 53 
Athens  63                   Sayre 53
Girls Basketball
Jersey Shore 43           Mifflinburg 24
Montoursville 53         Northumberland Christian 40
Mount Carmel 35        Lewisburg 31
Bloomsburg 62            Southern Columbia 50

NBA

76ers 105            Trailblazers 95
Bulls 126            Pistons 108
Celtics 121          Warriors 118
Timberwolves 128  Raptors 126
Suns 117             Nets 112

NHL
Blackhawks 4               Flyers 1
Hurricanes 5                 Wild 2
Ducks 5                        Blue Jackets 3
Panthers 6                     Canadiens 2
Bruins 3                        Rangers 1
Maple Leafs 4              Jets 1
Sabers 3                       Islanders 2
Blues 5                          Predators 2
Capitals 4                     Coyotes 0
Oilers 5                         Lightning 3
Kraken 4                       Devils 3
Red Wings 3       Golden Knights 2  
Stars 4                           Kings 0

NCAA Men’s Basketball
Purdue 61                     Minnesota 39  
UCLA 74                      Arizona State 62
Loyola Marymount 68  Gonzaga 67 – Stopping  Gonzaga’s 76 game home-winning streak 
Arizona 81                    USC 66
Charleston 69               Monmouth 55
Michigan State 70       Rutgers 57
Florida Atlantic 83      UTSA 64

BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS JANUARY 19, 2023

PENNDOT TREATING ROADS FOR ICE

PennDOT crews are out on the roads this morning and there is an advisory that motorists should be aware of changing weather conditions and that limiting travel is advised.  Weather predictions call for freezing rain in the morning hours which could cause potential icy conditions. Crews are spreading salt and anti-skid and will continue treating the roads in the region during the storm and until roads are clear.  

WILLIAMSPORT COUPLE DISPLACED BY FIRE

The Red Cross is assisting a couple from Williamsport who were displaced when a fire damaged their home.  According to the Sun gazette, city fire Chief Samuel Aungst told the Sun Gazette, that a lit candle was the cause of the fire at 1720 Malvin Place on January 13th and that Daniel and Nancy Morrett escaped any serious injury.  The home sustained over 5 thousand dollars-worth of damage.

NO TAX HIKE EXPECTED IN MUNCY

Approving a resolution to stay within the state’s measure for determining property tax increases justified by wage inflation of 5.2% for the next budget year, the Muncy School board has capped any millage rate increase at.869.  According to the Sun Gazette, Muncy School Board President Scott Johnson says the district has not raised taxes in three years and other administers say a tax hike is not something they foresee. A proposed budget may be approved by the board in April with a deadline for a final spending plan on June 30th.

HARLEM WIZARDS TO HELP RAISE FUNDS FOR WASD

The Williamsport Area School District Education Foundation will hold a fundraiser next month hosting the Harlem Wizards at the Magic Dome at Williamsport Area High School.  According to the Sun Gazette, the family friendly game presented by Geisinger, will feature basketball wizardry on the hardwood by the New Jersey based group.  This is the third time the Harlem Wizards have come to Williamsport and will play a team of teachers, principals, staff and students for the “Millionaire Magicians” Team, previously raising  almost 80 thousand dollars for the education foundation. Advance tickets are $10 for students and $15 for general admission  for the event February 9th at 6:30.

MOBILE HOME FIRE IN MONTOUR COUNTY

A Montour Township woman lost her mobile home Sunday after a fire destroyed the structure that started around 2am.  According to the Press Enterprise, Sheila Kressler woke to smoke filling her 80 foot Montour Boulevard trailer overnight.  Fire crews from Montour and Columbia County responded along with crews from Buckhorn, Bloomsburg, Catawissa Danville and Mahoning Township who worked with volunteers to protect an electrical panel and two large propane tanks on the property. The fire was contained to Kressler’s property with no injuries reported and no other homes were damaged.

MUNCY MAN CHARGED FOR SOLICITING 15 YEAR OLD

A Muncy man is due in court January 20th after he attempted to meet up with a 15 year old boy on a dating app, but who was instead a local person posing as a boy in order to catch predators.  According to North Central PA dot com, police were waiting for 50 year old Brian David Hess when he arrived at the predetermined meeting place in Muncy.  Hess was charged with felony criminal attempt of deviate sexual acts with a minor, corruption of minors and other charges.  Hess was incarcerated at Lycoming County Prison.

NEW AG IN PENNSYLVANIA

Pennsylvania’s new Attorney General has been named after the former Attorney General Josh Shapiro resigned ahead of his inauguration as Governor Tuesday. According to Pennsylvania Attorney General social media accounts, career prosecutor Michelle Henry is set to serve as Attorney General.  Henry will be the fourth woman to serve as attorney general, a list that includes Kathleen Kane who was previously found guilty of perjury in a 2016 trial in which Henry served as the prosecutor.

SCHOOL AGE SINGERS SOUGHT IN SELINSGROVE

The Susquehanna Valley Youth Chorale is holding auditions this weekend for student singers from 2nd to 12th grade to rehearse and perform in Selinsgrove.  According to North Central PA dot com, Youth music director Coleen Renshaw is scheduling auditions as well as holding auditions Saturday from 10 til noon and Monday 6 to 8pm at Sharon Lutheran Church on South Market Street in Selinsgrove.  SVYC’s youth program complements school music programs,  giving talented youth singers the opportunity to sing and perform at an advanced level with other highly motivated singers.  Successful candidates will rehearse Mondays starting January 30th through the April 23rd performance at the church.

SPORTS

PIAA District IV

Boys Basketball
Southern Columbia 72  Loyalsock 66
Hughesville 53               Mount Carmel 47
Shikellamy 80                Jersey Shore 55
Central Columbia 69     Midd-West 42
Bloomsburg 53              Warrior Run 47
Danville 70                    Mifflinburg 63
Lewisburg 50                 Montoursville 39
Shamokin 69                  Milton 50
Central Mountain 51     Selinsgrove 42

Girls Basketball
NE Bradford 47   Athens 45 (OT)
Montgomery 42   CMVT 8
Towanda 44                   North Penn-Liberty 29
Benton 40            Bucktail 39
Northwest  52      St. John Neumann 46
NP-Mansfield 41  Wyalusing 38
South Wmspt 58  Sullivan County 21
Wellsboro 42        Canton 33
Muncy 55             Millville 36

NBA
Wizards 116         Knicks 105
Hawks 130                     Mavericks 122
Hornets 122         Rockets 117
Grizzlies 115        Cavaliers 114
Heat 124              Pelicans 98
Thunder 126        Pacers 106
Jazz 126               Clippers 103
Nuggets 122         Timberwolves 118
Kings 116             Lakers 111
NHL
Senators 5            Penguins 4
Bruins 4               Islanders 1
Avalanche 4         Flames 1
Sharks 5               Stars 3
Lightning 5                     Canucks 2



NCAA Men’s Basketball

DePaul 73                     Xavier  72
Virginia 78         Virginia Tech 68
West Virginia 74         TCU 65
Seton Hall  67              Yukon 66
Marquette 83                Providence 75
Missouri 79                  Arkansas 76
Auburn 67                    LSU 49

BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS JANUARY 17, 2023

WILLIAMSPORT MAN FACES ASSAULT CHARGES

A Williamsport man who police say punched another man in the face last July on Maynard Street is facing simple assault and harassment charges, but failed to appear for a preliminary hearing.  According to the Sun Gazette, 30 year old Deandre Bently and William Overbay got into an argument after a traffic incident during which Bently allegedly punched Overbay and fled before police arrived at the scene.  A warrant for Bently’s arrest is expected to be issued in District Court. 

NORTHUMBERLAND MAN PUSHED WOMAN OUT OF MOVING CAR

A man who pushed a woman out of a moving car is being charged in Northumberland County court.  According to Northumberland Police, 25 year old Issac Tylor of Northumberland was taken into custody Friday after he allegedly picked up the victim while intoxicated and drove at a high rate of speed through the borough January 2nd.  Police say Tyler wouldn’t let the woman out of the car at first but then pushed her out.  He faces charges of unlawful restraint, making terroristic threats, recklessly endangering another person, and false imprisonment.

SOUTHSIDE WILL ENFORCE PROPERTY CODE VIOLATIONS

South Williamsport borough Council authorized a way to enforce property maintenance codes last week and will utilize the manpower of the  Susquehanna Mutual Aid Regional Team or SMART, to identify code violations across the three wards and give notice to responsible parties to correct the violations; which could include high grass, accumulated trash, broken windows or structural issues of homes.  SMART was created in 2022 to coordinate costs for fire and emergency medical response with the South Williamsport Fire Department.  No additional compensation will be given to the five SMART members for the anticipated daily patrols in the borough.

WATCH INAUGURATION OF GOVERNOR SHAPIRO

A live stream of the inauguration of Governor Elect Josh Shapiro will be available today beginning at 10am on the Pennsylvania Cable Network.  According to the Daily Item the celebration for the 48th Governor of Pennsylvania will include Lincoln University Choir, the African Episcopal Church of St. Thomas Choir, the Pittsburgh Youth Chorus, and the Hazleton Area High School Marching Cougars.  The transition of power from the Wolf Administration marks the first time Democrats held the office for three consecutive terms in the party’s modern history.  https://pacast.com/live/gov.

INMATE ASSAULTS OFFICER, FACES NEW CHARGES

A Sunbury woman who is incarcerated at SCI-Muncy faces new charges after police allege she threw coffee in the face of an officer and punched him last October.  According to the Sun Gazette, during the incident, another officer attempted to get control of 37 year old Sheila Lee Ramos, when she bit him.  In addition to her original charges, she also faces two counts of felony aggravated assault and will remain in jail in lieu of 50 thousand more dollars bail. 

NEW YORK MAN SENTERNCED IN BRADFORD COUNTY COURT

A man from Owego New York who was arrested with large quantities of drugs at a Sayre, Pennsylvania hotel in January of 2022 was sentenced in Bradford County Court last Thursday after pleading guilty to the crimes in November.  According to North Central PA dot com,  police say 36 year old Tuan Vo and a female companion were found with fentanyl and methamphetamine at the Best Western last year and taken into custody by the Sayre Borough Police Department and the Bradford County Drug Task Force.  Vo was given a 17 to 36 year sentence and is not eligible for the Recidivism Risk Reduction Incentive program.

CENTURY FARM NAMED IN MONTOUR COUNTY

Eight Pennsylvania Farms, including one in Montour County, were named as Century Farms by the State Agriculture Secretary Russell Redding last Friday at the Pennsylvania Farm Show.  According to the Daily Item, the Danville farm of Curtis and Stephanie Bower that had been established in 1861 qualifies for the recognition and embodies the theme of this year’s Farm Show, “Rooted in Progress”.  A Century Farm is owned by the same family for at least 100 years, with a family member living there, with at least 10 acres of the original holding maintained , or gross more than $1,000 annually from products cultivated there.  The Century Farm program, started in 1977 and recognizes more than 23 hundred farms across PA.

FREE ADMISSION TO DREAM WEEK BASKETBALL GAME AT LHU

It’s free admission at the Bald Eagles basketball game at Lock Haven University tomorrow night for a Community Night Event in honor of Martin Luther King Jr. Day this week. Both the men’s and women’s LHU basketball teams and others will participate in a Day of Service including visiting local schools to interact with area school-aged children.  Albert Jones, chief officer of diversity, equity and inclusion at Lock Haven University said the engagement between student-athletes and community members enriches relationships and networks in a positive way.

SPORTS

PIAA District 4
Boys Basketball
North Penn-Mansfield 60   Sayre 30
Loyalsock 72                                    Montoursville 49
North Penn-Liberty 53        Cowanesque Val. 27
Warrior Run 59                    Jersey Shore 57
Shamokin 52                         Troy 41
Montgomery 60                    CMVT 36
Marian Catholic 60              S. Columbia 52



Girls Basketball

Williamsport 48                   Towanda 34
Canton 17                              Montgomery 11
Northwest 59                                    Wyalusing 23
Northern Potter 44               Galeton 16
Marian Catholic 59              Lourdes Regional 38


NFL Monday Night Football

Cowboys 31 Buccaneers 14
Saturday, January 21

AFC:    4:30 PM Jacksonville Jaguars at Kansas City Chiefs NBC

NFC:    8:15 PM New York Giants at Philadelphia Eagles FOX

Sunday, January 22

AFC:    3:00 PM Cincinnati Bengals at Buffalo Bills CBS

NFC:    6:30 PM Dallas at San Francisco 49ers FOX

NBA
Celtics 130          Hornets 118
Pacers 119          Bucks 132
Cavaliers 113     Pelicans 103
Raptors 123        Knicks 121
Warriors 127      Wizards 118 
Hawks 121          Heat 113
Jazz 126              Timberwolves 125
Grizzlies 136      Suns 106
Lakers 140          Rockets 132


NHL
Bruins 6              Flyers 0
Penguins 4          Ducks 3
Panthers 4           Sabres 1
Avalanche 6        Red Wings 3
Devils 4               Sharks 3
Lightning 4         Kraken 1
Stars 4                 Golden Knights 0
Rangers 3            Blue Jackets 1
Capitals 4            Islanders 3
Predators 2          Flames 1 
Blues 2                Senators 1
NCAA  Men’s Basketball
Purdue 64           Michigan State 63
Miami 82            Syracuse 78
Charleston 82     William & Mary 54
Florida Atlantic 76 Western Kentucky 62

BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS JANUARY 16, 2023

PERCEIVED THREAT CAUSES SCHOOL LOCKDOWN

A group of State Troopers heading through 220 to 118 last week were rushing to the scene of suspicious activity at the East Lycoming School District’s Renn Elementary Friday morning at about 10:30 am. According to Northcentralpa.com, witnesses say a vehicle entered the school parking lot, traveling the wrong direction, and abruptly left but then returned. Staff called 911 and the school was locked down. Police say the driver of the vehicle had been dealing with a medical emergency and no weapons were recovered. The school remained on lockdown for about an hour before resuming normal operations.

WOMAN CHARGED FOR UNDER-RINGING ITEMS AT GROCERY STORE

A woman from Muncy has ultimately been charged with felony retail theft after Weis employees recently caught her under-wringing items at the check out November 16thwhich, at the time, resulted in a misdemeanor.  According to North Central PA dot com, after investigators checked surveillance camera footage, it turns out 30 year old Shelby Hoffman had under-rang items 27 times at the Muncy Weis Markets before – between Sept. 1 to Nov. 14, 2022. It was discovered she had stolen over 26-hundred dollars-worth of items.  Hoffman was arraigned this week in District Court.

HAND RECOUNT IN LYCOMING COUNTY RESULTS RELEASED

In the hand re-count of the November 2020 Election in Lycoming County had small fluctuations in the total but nothing close that had been alleged by the concerned citizens seeking to find answers about alleged miscounted votes and ballot harvesting.  According to the Sun Gazette, Trump actually won by seven fewer votes than had originally been reported following the election — 41,462 to 41,455. Biden, according to the hand count lost in the county by 15 more votes –16,971 to 16,956. Jo Jorgenson, the Libertarian candidate gained four votes — 821 to 825. The board of elections will meet at 10 a.m. Jan. 24 at the commissioners’ Board Room, 330 Pine St., to discuss the results.

DREAM WEEK 2023 INCLUDES PEACE WALK TODAY

Martin Luther King, Jr., National Day of Service is today Monday January 16th and Dream Week 2023 continues in Williamsport this week There will be opportunities on the Penn College and Lycoming College campuses to perform acts of Service and through the week and the STEP AmeriCorps will have their Peace Walk, at noon starting at the Jackie Robinson statue at Third and Market Streets in Williamsport.  Activities at the James V Brown Library start at 10:30 for children.  More information at pct.edu or Lycoming .edu.

LOYALSOCK MAN CHARGED WITH PROWLING

The Loyalsock Township man who faced charges of assaulting a police officer after he refused to leave UPMC Williamsport on October 23rd has been arrested again on loitering charges after he was found prowling at the 500 block of Pine Street January 3rd.  According to the Sun Gazette, 44 year old Thomas Daniel Ertel was charged with the assault, resisting arrest and disorderly conduct last year, but now faces more along with loitering, Ertel was charged with public drunkenness.  He is jailed in lieu of 10 thousand dollars bail.

POINT DRIVE-IN WILL HAVE A 2023 SEASON

Plans for the Solar Farm that was to take over the land and close Point Drive-in between Northumberland and Danville have fallen through and the owners of the drive-in have announced there will be a 2023 season!  According to a Facebook post by David Renn, the owner of the drive-in said that there won’t be any season passes sold for now, but they will be hiring for the season soon and  are looking forward to seeing you under the stars!  The Point Drive-in is on Route 11 between Northumberland and Danville.

INAUGURATION DAY IN HARRISBURG TODAY

Gov.-elect Josh Shapiro named more members of his administration – this time in the arena of public safety at the end of last week, including the first woman to ever be named as the Secretary of Corrections, Dr. Laurel Harry who has 24 years of Commonwealth Experience in the Department of Corrections and was named 2019 Warden of the Year.  Also named were , Randy Padfield as Pennsylvania Emergency Management Agency director, Christopher Paris as state police commissioner, Tom Cook as state fire commissioner, and Mark Schindler as adjutant general.  Rep. Mike Carroll, a Democrat from Luzerne County, was also tapped Friday for the top job at the Department of Transportation.  Shapiro will be sworn in Tuesday at the State Capitol Building in Harrisburg.

SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM FOR PA SENIORS

Graduating High School Seniors may be able to take advantage of a new scholarship program vreated by the PA House.  According to North Central PA dot com, the 2023 Pennsylvania House of Representatives Scholarship program is administered through The Foundation for Enhancing Communities and provides four-year scholarships to two high school seniors per year.  Those who qualify will be legal residents of PA, have a 3.0 or better GPA, exhibit leadership  and a commitment to their community, have financial need, and attend a PA College, university, or career school as a full-time student.  Details at www.tfec.org.

SPORTS

NFL Sunday
Bengals 24          Ravens 17
Bills 34               Dolphins 31
Giants 31            Vikings 24

NFL Monday Night Football
NFC wildcard Playoffs
Cowboys vs the Buccaneers Tampa at 8:15 on ABC
Saturday, January 21

AFC:    4:30 PM Jacksonville Jaguars at Kansas City Chiefs NBC

NFC:    8:15 PM New York Giants at Philadelphia Eagles FOX

Sunday, January 22

AFC:    3:00 PM Cincinnati Bengals at Buffalo Bills CBS

NFC:    6:30 PM Dallas/Tampa Bay at San Francisco 49ers FOX


The AFC and NFC Championship Games, presented by Intuit TurboTax, will take place on Sunday, January 29

NBA
76ers 113            Lakers 112
Knicks 117         Pistons 104  
Clippers 121       Rockets 100
Bulls 132            Warriors 118
Thunder 112       Nets 102
Kings 132           Spurs 119
Nuggets 119       Magic 116
Trailblazers 140 Mavericks 123

NHL
Canucks 4           Hurricanes 3
Canadiens 2        Rangers 1
Jets 2                   Coyotes 1


NCAA basketball
St. John’s 85       UConn 74
Xavier 80            Marquette 76

NASCAR Kevin Harvick announced that 2023 will be his final full-time season according to his social media accounts. The 2023 NASCAR season kicks off with the Clash at the Coliseum next month, February 5th , then the Daytona 500 is February 16th , in Daytona Beach, Florida.

BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS JANUARY 13, 2023

MONTOUR TOWNSHIP HOME BURNS TO THE GROUND

A home in Montour Township burned to the ground yesterday morning before volunteer firefighters could get water up a steep hill to extinguish it. According to the Press Enterprise, crews from Buckhorn, Catawissa and Bloomsburg were first called at about 4am to the home at 86 Harp Lane along a winding Road off Hollow Road in Rupert. Firefighters from other companies were forced to ferry water to a portable pond from the Catawissa boat club until they finally charged the lines to get to the top of the hill, by that time the home was down to ashes. Police say Route 42 from Train Street to Grovenia Avenue was closed yesterday morning from 5 to 7am. Mahoning Township, Espy, Lightstreet, Riverside and Danville also assisted with the blaze.  The home had been on the real estate market for about 3 months, there were no reports of injuries.

FATAL ACCIDENT IN LOCK HAVEN FOR BLANCHARD MAN

A 28 year old Blanchard man suffered fatal injuries last weekend in an accident along Railroad Street in Liberty Township.  According to the Lock Haven Express, Levi Confer hit two trees after going off the roadway at a high rate of speed in his Saturn Ion at about 2am.  State police at Lamar say Confer was not wearing a seatbelt at the time of the crash and his vehicle sustained total damage.  Confer was a member of #824 Laborer’s Union in Bellefonte and had attended Central Mountain High School.

WILLIAMSPORT WOMAN TO APPEAR ON JEOPARDY TONIGHT

A local woman who has been taking the “Jeopardy!” online test for years to become a contestant, will have a chance to win on the show tonight.  According to the Sun Gazette, Brenda Crowell from Williamsport, who can’t talk yet about the results of the show that was taped back in November, says it was a once in a lifetime experience.  Crowell said she had been taking the online test since it had been made available and just last year got picked for an audition and chosen for the show.    Crowell competes on Jeopardy tonight at 7:30 on WBRE.

DREAM WEEK 2023 INCLUDES NATIONAL DAY OF SERVICE

Martin Luther King, Jr., National Day of Service is coming up Monday January 16th and Dream Week 2023 will officially start tomorrow night with a meal and service provided by United Churches of Lycoming County at Sojourner Truth Ministries, 501 High Street, Williamsport.  There will be opportunities on the Penn College and Lycoming College campuses to perform acts of Service and The STEP AmeriCorps will be coordinating their Peace Walk, starting at noon at the Jackie Robinson statue at the corner of Third and Market Streets in Williamsport with a few words from Dr. Nate Woods of Penn College.  More information at pct.edu or Lycoming .edu

NORTHUMBERLAND MAN JAILED FOR THREATS

A man from Northumberland who police say threatened a woman by saying he would shoot her like the woman who had been shot by her ex-boyfriend in Danville on January 3rd  is in custody.  According to North Central PA dot com, court records show 28 year old Christopher Ward faces charges of terroristic threats and harassment when he called his victim over 60 times and threatened to kill her, sending her pictures of handguns.  Ward is in the Northumberland County jail in lieu of 45 thousand dollars bail with a preliminary  hearing January 17th.

UPMC TO BOOST MINIMUM WAGE FOR NEW EMPLOYEES

As the largest employer in Lycoming County, UPMC has announced they are planning to increase minimum wage for entry-level positions to $18 dollars an hour by January 2025.  According to the Sun Gazette, officials at a press briefing at UPMC Pittsburgh said the wage increase will help with nurse to patient ratios and they say along with their benefits package, UPMC employees receive an equivalent of $27 per hour.  The wage increases affect UPMC Williamsport, Lock Haven, Coudersport Cole Memorial, Muncy and Wellsboro. Ninety-five thousand employees work at UPMC across all their  facilities. 

PARKING ORDINANCE SET IN LOYALSOCK TOWNSHIP

An ordinance has been passed in Loyalsock Township that will allow enforcement of the parking ban on Warren Avenue and portions of Pennsylvania Avenue.  According to the Sun Gazette, the signs have been in place for years, but an official ordinance has never been in place.  Now, if there are issues about parking in these areas, there is a way for it to be legally enforced.  The proposed ordinance was reviewed by the township solicitor, Michael Wiley.

DAIRY CHARITY MAKES GOAL AFTER FARM SHOW DONATIONS

The joint venture between the PA Dairymen’s Association, American Dairy Association North East and Feeding Pennsylvania, known as Fill A Glass with Hope is celebrating at the PA Farm Show this week after a series of local and corporate donations totaling over 201 thousand dollars has helped them achieve a record goal.  According to North Central PA dot com, the Fill A Glass with Hope program raises funds that let food banks purchase fresh milk from local dairy processors at a reduced price.  You can help provide fresh dairy products to PA families in need by donating at the Feeding Pennsylvania website or making a donation this week at any PA Dairymen milkshake booth at the Expo Center at the Farm Show in Harrisburg.

SPORTS

NBA
Thunder 133                  76ers 114
Celtics 109                    Nets 98
Heat 108                        Bucks 102
Raptors 124                   Hornets 114
Mavericks 119              Lakers 115 2OT
Cavaliers 119                Trailblazers 113

NHL
Kraken 3                        Bruins 0
Jets 4                             Sabres 2
Hurricane 6                   Blue Jackets 2
Red Wings 4                 Maple Leafs 1
Canadiens 4                   Predators 3
Rangers 2                      Stars 1
Lightning 5                   Canucks 4
Wild 3                           Islanders 1
Flames 4                        Blues 1
Blackhawks 3                Avalanche 2
Senators 5                     Coyotes 3
Golden Knights 4          Panthers 2

NCAA Men’s Basketball
UCLA over Utah 68-49
Gonzaga beat BYU 75-74
Arizona over Oregon State 86-74

NFL
Saturday, January 14

 4:30 PM Seattle @ San Francisco FOX

 8:15 PM LA Chargers@ Jacksonville NBC

Sunday, January 15

1:00 PM Miami @ Buffalo CBS
4:30 PM NY Giants @  Minnesota FOX
8:15 PM  Baltimore @ Cincinnati NBC
Monday, January 16

8:15 PM Dallas @ Tampa Bay ABC

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