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.

BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS JUNE 30, 2023

AIR QUALITY STILL ORANGE IN PA

Air Quality this morning for all of Pennsylvania due to smoke from Canadian wildfires is at a Code ORANGE alert or considered unhealthy for sensitive groups..  According to the DEP, some local conditions are remaining near red – or unhealthy to breathe, but there is some improvement  with much of the wildfire smoke likely to be cleared from our area by tomorrow, but it could return later this Summer as wildfires continue to burn in Northeast Canada.  You can check air quality levels anytime at airnow.gov.

TWO ALARM FIRE IN WATSONTOWN THURSDAY

There was a two alarm house fire near Watsontown Thursday morning.  According to Susquehanna Regional 911 eight fire companies responded to the call that came in for the home at 348 Clemens Road in Delaware Township around 6:30am yesterday. Crews were ordered to evacuate the house after the roof was in danger of collapsing.  Some witnesses at the scene said there were explosions heard and heavy smoke when crews first arrived.  No injuries were reported and a cause of the fire has  not yet been determined.

SPLASH PAD CLOSED TEMPORARILY

According to a social media post by the City of Williamsport Recreation Department, the Williamsport Splash Pad is under temporary closure due to it not turning on and off properly.  According to the Sun Gazette, authorities say it will be closed until the mechanical and electrical problems are fixed with the job anticipated to be completed by Saturday.  Those who want to use the Splash Pad are encouraged to watch Facebook for updates on the repair and status of the facility.

AUTHORITIES WILL PATROL FOR BUI ON THE WATER FOR THE 4TH

Safe travel is top of mind for the PA Department of Transportation, and as we head into the 4th of July Holiday weekend law enforcement officials are focused on safe boating with a plan of increased Waterway Conservation patrols and sobriety checks on the water.  According to authorities there is increased boat traffic along the Susquehanna  with the possibility of more people boating under the influence of alcohol. The Department recently kicked off ‘Operation Dry Water’ to increase awareness of Boating Under the Influence or BUI. Watch for increased patrols on the roadways, too, throughout the holiday next week.

BODY FOUND IN SUSQUEHANNA RIVER

A body was found in the Susquehanna River near Harrisburg this week and authorities have identified the victim as a person who had been listed as a missing person Wednesday.  According to PennLive, 82 year old Lars Blomquist of Newfield New York was reportedly boating on the river that day and his body was found just before 8pm Wednesday night.  The Dauphin County Coroner reported Blomquist’s death to be accidental by drowning. There is an investigation started into the incident led by the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission

PREVIOUS TENANT FORCES NEW TENANT TO PAY RENT TO HIM

A Williamsport man threatened the man who moved into his previous apartment at the 600 block of Rose Street with a knife after demanding he be paid the rent for the apartment and not the landlord.  According to the Sun Gazette, 47 year old Edward James Nicholas allegedly showed a knife during a confrontation and forced the current tenant to withdraw money for him at an ATM.  The crime was reported June 21st and Nichols was apprehended by police.  He faces felony kidnapping and robbery as well as misdemeanor assault charges, and is in Lycoming County Prison in lieu of 85 thousand dollars bail.

SIGNAL LIGHTS OFF FOR NOW IN MIFFLINBURG BOROUGH

Motorists are advised that the traffic signal at the intersection of Route 45 (East Chestnut Street) and Route 3007 (Forest Hill Road) in Mifflinburg Borough, Union County, is malfunctioning and has been turned off.  Motorists approaching the intersection should expect to stop in all directions until the traffic signal is operational.  You can check conditions of all the roadways on your area by logging onto 511pa dot com 24 hours a day.

TROOPER RECOVERING FROM CRITICAL SHOOTING

The State Trooper who was shot during a manhunt June 17th , in the same series of incidents that killed Trooper Jacques Rougeau Jr.,  that same day in Juniata County, remains in critical condition at Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center.  According to PennLive, 21 year veteran, 45 year old Lt. James Wagner is the father of three sons and is the assigned station commander at the Troop G Bedford Station, the barracks where the shooting occurred.  The suspect in the shootings 38 year old Brandon Stine of Thomspntown is in custody and a motive for the shootings has not been determined.  If you’re interested in helping the families of the troopers involved, consider the PSTA Survivors Fund, in Harrisburg, or the Troopers Helping Troopers Foundation. 

SPORTS

MLB
Royals 4              Guardians 3
Pirates 5               Padres 4
Tigers 8               Rangers 5
Yankees 10         A’s 4
Rays 6                 Diamondbacks 1
White Sox 9         Angels 7
Marlins 2            Red Sox 0
Blue Jays 2         Giants 1
Brewers 3            Mets 2
Astros 14             Cardinals 0
Phillies 3             Cubs 1
Dodgers 14         Rockies 3

MLB News
The Texas Rangers are sending a franchise-record four starters to the All-Star Game in Seattle on July 11th, the most of any major league team.

*They will have a starter at all the infield positions save for first base, as catcher Jonah Heim and rookie third baseman Josh Jung are appearing as first-time All-Stars. They’ll join shortstop Corey Seager and second baseman Marcus Semien. It’s Seager’s fourth All-Star appearance, while Semien is an All-Star for the second time in his career.
MLB Draft League
Williamsport Crosscutters are back home tonight to take on the Trenton Thunder at Historic Bowman Field 6:35 1st pitch

NASCAR Sunday
Chicago Street Race Grant Park 220 Pre-race coverage starts at 4:30 Green Flag 5:30 on the Twin Valley’s Talk Radio Network or WILQ’s HD3.

BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS JUNE 29, 2023

CODE RED DAY IN PENNSYLVANIA

Air quality in Williamsport has degraded again with wildfire smoke from Canada drifting over North Central PA.  According to the DEP, a Code Red alert is in place for the entire state of Pennsylvania, and local conditions could even reach Code Purple throughout the day.  The DEP reminds the public that in code Purple conditions,  sensitive groups should avoid all physical activity outdoors. Others should avoid prolonged or heavy exertion.   Check airnow.gov for current air quality conditions.

ROOF FIRE IN LOCK HAVEN

A roof fire in Woodward Township caused extensive damage to a home on St John Lane.  According to the Lock Haven Express, first responders arrived at the scene off of Brewery Hollow Road just past noon Tuesday when witnesses said they could see smoke from downtown Lock Haven.  Local fire crews assisted the Dunnstown fire company after the family tried to extinguish the blaze with garden hoses, but crews remained on the scene into the evening putting out hotspots. 

ROUTE 220 CONSTRUCTION CONTINUES THIS WEEK

Motorists who travel Route 220 northbound and southbound are advised that the safety improvement project continues next week in Woodward and Piatt Townships, Lycoming County.  According to PennDOT, changes in daily patterns for miscellaneous construction activities will be during off peak hours. Watch for paving of Youngs Road East Jug Handle and Queneshaque Bridge approaches this week .  There will also be bridge work on the northbound structure over Queneshaque Road with two lanes of traffic being maintained. 

GEISINGER TO MAKE MORE STAFFING CHANGES

More staffing changes are on the way for Geisinger, as they continue to cut jobs and reshape various departments.  According to a statement from Geisinger they say even though some facilities have reduced services or closed, they still will invest in the jobs to grow the workforce in areas that best meet the needs of the community. Geisinger recently announced they were being acquired by Kaiser Permanente, buy that change does not effect changes in staffing according to the hospital.

KULPMONT WOMAN REPORTED MISSING

A Kulpmont woman is missing and Stonington State police are asking the public to help find her.  Police say 37 Tricia Wilde was reported missing Sunday after not having contact with family since early Friday.  There is surveillance footage of Wilde walking westbound on Scott Street in Kulpmont around 2am Friday.  Wilde is 5’2” , about 120 pounds with brown hair and hazel eyes.  Contact Stonington State police if you have information.

MAN WHO ALLEGEDLY STOLE TRUCK IS IN CUSTODY

The man from Muncy arrested for stealing a white 2007 Ford E-450 from Geisinger Medical Center in Danville and setting it on fire in May is in Lycoming County Prison.    According to the Daily Item, 39 year old Joseph Artly allegedly stole the van from the north end of the hospital’s parking lot which held about 50 thousand dollars-worth of tools and equipment and set it on fire at the Muncy Heritage Park and Nature Trail where it was discovered by police.  Artley waived his preliminary hearing via video from the prison where his bail was changed by District Judge James Tupper; to unsecured.  

FREEZER FAILURE AT UNION COUNTY PRISON

Frozen food had to be transferred to another freezer in the Union County correctional system after the equipment at the Union County Jail malfunctioned Sunday.  According to the Daily Item, at the Union County Commissioners meeting Tuesday, officials address the freezer failure and said that the frozen food was transferred by the warden and other staff members to the Union County Resource Center two miles away on Hafer Road in Lewisburg to avoid it spoiling.  Officials say they will swap freezers for now and attempt to temporarily fix the broken one with a permanent fix to be discussed with the prison board.

WATER AUTHORITY TEST NEXT MONDAY

The Williamsport Municipal Water Authority will test the warning siren at the Water Filtration Plant on Mosquito Valley Road this coming Monday.  According to a statement from the WMWA, the siren will sound Monday July 3rd at 6pm for 30 seconds.  In the event of a real emergency, the siren sounds constantly for 3 minutes, every three minutes, and residents are expected to shelter in place and await phone notification.  .  If you have questions about Monday’s siren at 6pm call the WMWA office at 323-6148.

SPORTS

MLB
Guardians 14      Royals 1
Braves 3              Twins 0
Nationals 4         Mariners 1
Reds 11               Orioles 7
Pirates 7              Padres 1
Blue Jays 6         Giants 1
Marlins 6            Red Sox 2
Brewers 5            Mets 2
Astros 10             Cardinals 7
Rangers 10         Tigers 2
Phillies 8             Cubs 5
Rockies 9             Dodgers 8
White Sox 11      Angels 5
Yankees 11         A’s 0
Rays 3                 Diamondbacks 2

MLB Draft League
Williamsport Crosscutters took 2 out of 3 on the road in Maryland last night  beating the Frederick Keys 2-1
With the day off, they come back to Bowman Field Friday night to play Trenton Thunder.

MLB News
Yankee’s Domingo German threw a perfect game against the Oakland Athletics on Wednesday night, allowing  no hits and no walks on 99 pitches in an 11-0 victory.

BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS JUNE 28, 2023

WOMAN IN CUSTODY AFTER BENTON SHOOTING

The Benton Police department took a Columbia County woman into custody after shooting yesterday at a home along Main Streets in Benton Borough. According to WNEP,  Tayler Vanatta  argued with her boyfriend Tuesday morning which led to her shooting him in the hip .  He was hospitalized but will recover.  Police say there is no threat to public safety in Benton, and Vanatta was taken into custody.

MAN JAILED FOR VIOLATING PFA

A Williamsport man who was already out on 50 thousand dollars bail for a February incident of terroristic threats, assault and false imprisonment, has had new charges filed against him for sending threatening texts and voice messages to the same victim,  after she filed a PFA in June.  According to the Sun Gazette, court records say that 45 year old David Morgan Buck continued to send threatening voice messages and texts last May and June.  Buck faces new charges of felony intimidation of a victim, and more terroristic threats and harassment and waived his preliminary hearing.  He was re-committed to Lycoming County Prison this time in lieu of 50 thousand dollars bail.

JERSEY SHORE SCHOOLS QUESTION NEW HIRE OVER SALARY CONCERNS

A motion to hire an assistant middle school principal failed when the Jersey Shore Area School Board voted 4-4 with one member absent.  This comes after the board challenged the annual salary of 97 thousand dollars for the asst principal position, saying it is too high.  According to the Sun Gazette, the contract for Dr. Tara Battaglia who is an Act 93 Administrator, is already board approved, but now with the board asking to rethink the starting salary, Superintendent Dr. Brian Ulmer said in an email that he will have to renegotiate with the current candidate, and face a potential rejection of the new offer.  That could then force them to repost the position

ROUTE 890 IN TREVORTON REOPEN

PennDOT, local crews and PPL completed clean up of wires and trees that came down Sunday along Route 890 that closed the road Monday morning, which caused a detour in Trevorton.  According to PPL, no customers are experiencing outages at this time, but over 500 PPL customers in Columbia, Luzerne, Montour, Schuylkill, Snyder and Union Counties were without power following the weekend storms.  Route 890 is clear and passible. Find conditions of all area roadways 24/7 at 511 PA dot com.

MAN JAILED FOR PRIOR CONTEMPT ALONG WITH  DRUG CHARGES

A Cogan Station man was taken into custody Monday for a drug charge and is now also facing a prior charge for aggravated assault and endangering the welfare of a child from a case in 2022 in which he is accused of shaking his girlfriend’s baby causing critical injuries – which she survived.  According to the Sun Gazette, Moore had avoided authorities when his bail was revoked in January for contempt of court in the child endangerment case, but now has new charges of possession with intent to deliver drugs and is in a Union County jail in lieu of 50 thousand dollars bail.

ANOTHER RESIGNATION IN OLD LYCOMING TOWNSHIP

There’s been another resignation in Old Lycoming Township, just another in a series of employees resigning or retiring in the last month.  According to the Sun Gazette, Krista Strunk, worked at the township sewer department and had been serving as interim treasurer for Alex Kennedy who had previously resigned.  In a dispute with community members over issues that include decisions about last year’s police regionalization decision,almost a dozen township employees have called it quits,  leaving the township without a manager and Dave Shirn as the lone supervisor for now.

SOUTH CENTRAL PA TOUR GUIDE GORED BY BISON

A worker for Lake Tobias Wildlife Park employee in South Central PA was gored in the leg by a bison June 17th during a safari tour bus ride.  According to PennLive 19-year-old Riley Blanchard was injured while she was giving a tour to 40 to 50 passengers. She has been working for the Dauphin County park, near Halifax, as a safari tour bus driver for two seasons, and this month while standing on the steps of the bus, the bison approached the woman and injured her.  Blanchard has recovered and will return to work in July. 

NEW LOVE CENTER FOOD PANTRY GOES TO CAMP SUSQUE

There are a few more dates being added to the schedule of the recently started New Love Center Mobile Food Pantry with the latest dates scheduled at Camp Susque in July and August.  According to the Sun Gazette, the 501c3 camp on 47 Susque Camp Road in Trout Run, with its educational classes and connection to local schools and other non-profits  is joining with the center to help figh food insecurity in the region.  The Mobile food pantry will distribute milk, eggs, frozen meats, produce and canned goods at Camp Susque July 18th and August 22nd from ten to noon.  A valid ID is the only thing required to receive food.  Get details at www.newlovecenter.com

SPORTS

MLB

Guardians 2         Royals 1
Reds 3                  Orioles 1
Pirates 9               Padres 4
Giants 3               Blue Jays 0
Marlins 10                     Red Sox 1
Mets 7                  Brewers 2
Braves 6               Twins 2
Cardinals 4          Astros 2
Rangers 8            Tigers 3
Phillies 5             Cubs 1
Dodgers 5            Rockies 0
Angels 4              White Sox 2
A’s 2                    Yankees 1
Diamondbacks 8 Rays 4
Nationals 7          Mariners 4
MLB NEWS
 Shohei Ohtani became the first American League pitcher in nearly 60 years to hit two homers and strike out 10 batters in a game, in a 6 1/3-inning start that ended because he had a cracked fingernail.
*It’s happened five other times in the majors: (AL) Cleveland’s Pedro Ramos on July 31, 1963, Baltimore’s Milt Pappas (1961), Philadelphia’s Rick Wise (1971), San Francisco’s Madison Bumgarner (2017) and Arizona’s Zack Greinke (2019)
*Ohtani (7-3) struck out at least 10 for the sixth time in 16 starts. He is third in the majors with 127 strikeouts.

MLB Draft League
Williamsport Crosscutters 8          Frederick Keys 7
*Williamsport tries to take 2 out of 3 tonight on the road in Maryland. 
*They are back home at Historic Bowman Field Friday night with the Trenton Thunder 6:35pm first pitch.

NASCAR NEWS
The in-laws and nephew of seven-time NASCAR champion Jimmie Johnson were found dead after a reported shooting in an Oklahoma home Monday, and police say it was likely a murder-suicide.
*Johnson, who retired from full-time NASCAR racing following the 2020 season, has competed in three races this season for Legacy who withdrew their No. 84 Carvana Chevrolet from this weekend’s NASCAR Cup Series event in Chicago.

BACKYARD BROADCASTING JUNE 27, 2023

WRONGFUL DEATH SUIT SETTLED IN WILLIAMSPORT

A wrongful death settlement has been reached in the 2019 suit in which a Williamsport man in a motorized wheel chair was killed when he was struck and dragged by an SUV at Fourth and Williams Streets in the city. According to the Sun Gazette, the estate of John C. Yaraoz II asked to settle with the driver and the city for 265 thousand dollars in front of Lycoming County Judge Eric R. Linhardt with neither of the defendants admitting liability.  During the investigation of the original accident that claimed the life of Yaroz, the city was accused of negligence for not properly maintaining the walk-don’t walk signal at the intersection, which according to police has since been repaired.

WOMAN SUING TO GET EXOTIC CAT BACK

A woman from New Jersey is suing a local animal rescue for allegedly holding her exotic emotional support cat illegally.  According to North Central PA dot com,  court records say that Catherine DeLucia’s cross-breed Savanna/Egyptian Mau cat was given to a New York animal rescue in a domestic dispute, and when she went to retrieve her pet, it had been transferred to Snyder County’s T&D’s Cats of the World facility who countersued and says the cat is illegal to own in New York  State. DeLucia allegedly went to the rescue facility and during an altercation, spit in the face and eyes of the defendants who own the shelter requiring them to seek preventative care.

WATER BARRIERS TO BE PURCHASED FOR CROWD SAFETY

The City of Williamsport is planning to spend 40 thousand dollars of money from American Rescue Plan Funds on water barriers to ensure spectator safety during parades and special events.  According to the Sun Gazette, the public works department will use 100 of the barriers to deter any issue with a vehicle that may go toward a crowd of people intentionally or unintentionally.  The barriers each weigh 16 hundred pounds and are filled with 200 gallons of water.  Other plans for the city include the installations of six to eight cameras and internet service at Shaw Park with plans for camera upgrades at other parks like the Memorial Pool, Lose and Newberry parks then Brandon and Young’s Parks.

GAME COMMISSION WEBSITE HAD ISSUES

The online buzz was mostly against the PA Game Commission yesterday for their execution of the online logistics for the first time doe tags were available online instead of by mail-in application.  According to social media site, they experienced intermittent slowness and crashes and later, the commission apologized saying they are diligently working to resolve the issues in order to continue license sales.  The Game Commission approved the change to go to online sales during their January 2023 meeting.  The site to get your tag for this first round is up today – pgc.pa.gov.

MAN CHARGED WITH DUI

A Williamsport man is free on bail after he was charged with aggravated assault, DUI, reckless endangerment and more after an accident May 9th.  According to the Sun Gazette, state police say 34 year old Brandon Eugene Baysore drove his 2008 Ford Edge into an Acura MDX driven by Tiffany Gettinger along Route 220 in Woodward Township forcing her car into a ditch and injuring a passenger who required intensive care at UPMC Williamsport.  Baysore told police he had been golfing early and fell asleep at the wheel that night, while an investigation revealed multiple indicators of impairment – including the smell of alcohol on his breath.  Baysore was charged last week in front of District Judge Denise Dieter before he posted his 50 thousand dollar bail.

POLICE SEEKING WOMAN FOR QUESTIONING

Police are seeking information about a mother and child who were seen in a dispute in the street and then traveling in a Black Honda with New Jersey plates in Old Lycoming Township.  According to Lycoming Regional Police, they were dispatched to an area around Misner Road yesterday around 2pm when witnesses said they saw a woman speed up to a juvenile child who was standing on the street, get out of the car, hit the child  who yelled back at her – calling her mom, and was then forced into the car.  They were last seen traveling north in the 2300 block of Lycoming Creek Road with the license plate number A5B.  Police are seeking the woman for questioning  – they don’t believe it’s an abduction.  Call Lycoming County Dispatch at 570-329-4060 or leave an anonymous Crimewatch tip.

PLUMBING UPGRADES COMING TO WILLIAM HEPBURN HIGHRISE

The William Hepburn high rise recently got approved for an almost 1.5 million dollar plumbing upgrade by the Lycoming Housing Authority last week.  According to the Sun Gazette there was a lone bidder from an Ohio firm for the project and the authority had to bring in a third party consulting firm to create an independent cost estimate.  This included pulling back on some desired features as a cost-saving measure but the ten-story high rise built in the late ‘60s is now set to undergo upgrades to the lining and brush coating of the original sanitary piping, vent piping and cold and hot water piping.  The Authority does have the funds for the project, but also applied for a 750 thousand dollar Affordable Housing Program Grant to off-set costs.

TIOGA COUNTY RIDE RESCHEDULED FOR JULY

A motorcycle ride that was to benefit the Wellsboro Shared Home, that was postponed this weekend due to weather in Tioga County will now take place in Mansfield Sunday, July 23rd .  According to WETM, the 100-mile ride will start at 11am with registration at 10am and the route will be the same; going from Eisenhauer’s Tioga County Harley-Davidson  to Covington, Liberty, Morris, Wellsboro, Ansonia, and back to Mansfield for lunch at 1:15.  Call for details 570-724-2300.

SPORTS

NCAA Men’s College Baseball
World Series Championship Game
LSU 18    Florida 4
LSU wins the series 2-1

MLB
Orioles 10           Reds 3
Brewers 2            Mets 1
Braves 4              Twins 1
Tigers 7               Rangers 2
Angels 2              White Sox 1
Mariners 8          Nationals 4

MLB Draft League
Frederick Keys 5         Crosscutters 3
Williamsport gets another shot on the road tonight in Game 2 out of 3 against the Keys – 7pm first pitch


NHL NEWS
Edmonton Oilers center Connor McDavid swept the top individual honors at the NHL Awards last night to cap his career-best season.

*McDavid won the Hart Trophy as the league’s most valuable player and the Ted Lindsay Award as the NHL Players’ Association’s most outstanding player.
*It was McDavid’s third Hart Trophy win, after having been nominated five times.

ABC Audio’s 40 on the 4th!

SUMMER IS UNDERWAY AND ABC AUDIO IS LOOKING BACK AT IMPACTFUL AND INFLUENTIAL ALBUMS AND SONGS TURNING 40 YEARS OLD ON JULY 4th WITH “ABC AUDIO’S FORTY ON THE FOURTH!”

HOSTED BY ABC AUDIO’S MATT WOLFE, WE’RE SPOTLIGHTING SONGS FROM ALBUMS RELEASED IN 1983!

FEATURING THE LIKES OF STEVIE NICKS, JOURNEY, THE POLICE, DEF LEPPARD, PAT BENATAR AND MORE! YOU’LL ALSO HEAR FROM EXPERTS AND THE ARTISTS THEMSELVES, LOOKING BACK AT THE MUSIC THAT CHANGED THE COURSE OF THEIR CAREERS!

HEAR IT FROM 3PM TO 6PM ON TUESDAY, JULY 4TH.

BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS JUNE 21, 2023

WOMAN FLOWN TO HOSPITAL AFTER MCCLURE WRECK

There was an accident along Route 522 Monday morning around 7:45 in McClure after which, a woman was flown to Geisinger and a man was taken into custody.  According to media outlets, Middleburg police say they have 43 year old Samuel Smith in custody.  Police say the female allegedly jumped from the moving vehicle and was found lying in the road and severely injured when officers arrived on the scene.  Smith was arrested for impaired driving and is in custody for other pending charges.  Police say Route 522 reopened after a brief closure yesterday and the investigation into the accident continues.

MONTOURSVILLE MAN CHARGED WITH UNLAWFUL CONTACT

A 21 year old Montoursville man is in custody after he allegedly asked a young girl if he could touch her and play games while she was on her property on Elm Street.  According to North Central Pa dot com, the young girl ran inside her home and told a relative who called police after Anthony Jacob Kancevicius stuck his head under a nearby fence and continued to ask the girl to come into his backyard.  Police arrested  Kancevicius after an interview and charged him with interference with custody of children and unlawful contact with a minor.  His bail was denied by Judge Gary Whiteman.

EAST BUFFALO TOWNSHIP BOIL WATER ADVISORY

Due to a water main break in East Buffalo Township, a boil water advisory is in place for about 14 hundred customers.  According to the Daily Item, Pennsylvania American Water customers along dozens of streets are affected and should use bottled water and not drink any tap water without first bringing it to a rolling boil and letting it cool.  Check information about the progress of the repair online at amwater.com/paaw , and get general information about health risks, call the EPA’s Safe Drinking Water Hotline at 800-426-4791.

SUSQUEHANNA GREENWAY PHOTO CONTEST

Interested participants have until June 30th to submit original photographs and share stories in the annual Susquehanna Greenway Photo Contest.  The contest is free-to-enter and encourages photographers of all ages and skill levels to enter photos under several categories including Treasured River Towns, Susquehanna Landmarks, Susquehanna Adventures, and Wildlife.  Cash prizes will be awarded for 1st, 2nd and 3rd place in each category with entries submitted electronically.  Get details for entering at susquehannagreenway.org/photocontest .

MONTOURSVILLE MAN FACES OVER 800 MOLESTATION CHARGES

A man who used to live in Montoursville was brought back to PA to face over 800 charges for molestation of a child over a 3 year period between 2007 and 2010.  According to the Sun Gazette, police say reports from the victim about 76 year old Danny Ray Brewer who allegedly committed the offenses in Fairfield Township came in earlier this year.  Brewer, who denies the charges, was arrested in St. Clair County, Illinois, and waived extradition.  He faces 100 felony counts of unlawful contact with and was arraigned in Lycoming County Court Sunday night.

GUEST PULLED UNRESPONSIVE FROM KNOEBELS POOL

The Knoebel’s Amusement Park family is asking all to pray for the best possible outcome for the man who was pulled unresponsive from a pool at the park Sunday by lifeguards.  According to North Central PA dot com, when lifeguards and emergency personnel on duty discovered the man in the Crystal Pool, they immediately treated  him at the scene with additional attention from the Knoebels EMS team before he was transported to Geisinger Medical Center in Danville.  Park officials have not released the identity or the current condition of the victim. 

LEGISLATURE TO PRESERVE INFRASTRUCTURE FROM VANDALISM

After attacks last year at two electrical substations in North Carolina involving gunfire at the sites which cut power to nearby communities for days, Senator Gene Yaw recently announced legislation to increase penalties against those who intentionally vandalize or attack critical infrastructure in Pennsylvania. Senate Bill 819, would bring 3rd degree felony charges and a fine of no less than $10,000, along with the potential to face civil suits for damages for those who willfully damage, destroy, or tamper with equipment in a critical infrastructure facility.

I-95 WILL OPEN AHEAD OF SCHEDULE

 Governor Josh Shapiro announced that I-95 is set to be re-opened in two weeks – much earlier than predicted – after a tanker truck carrying a “petroleum-based product” caught fire under the interstate near Cottman Avenue last Sunday and the roadway collapsed.  According to Penn Live, President Joe Biden was at the live press conference Saturday when Shapiro provided the update and confirmed that the federal government will provide funds to help build the Interstate System and help it be restored ahead of schedule.  Construction work is continuing 24/7 with demolition of the overpass completed on Thursday.  A live stream of the construction site now available at  penndot.pa.gov under District 6, I-95 Updates. 

SPORTS

MLB
Cardinals 8         Nationals 6
Tigers 6               Royals 4
Marlins 11          Blue Jays 0  
Cubs 8                 Pirates 0
Reds 5                 Rockies 4
Red Sox 9           Twins 3
Diamondbacks 9 Brewers 1
Mets 11               Astros 1
Rangers 5            White Sox 2
Giants 7               Padres 4


MLB Draft League
The Williamsport Crosscutters are back tonight at Historic Bowman Field to play the Frederick Keys – 6:35 PM first pitch.

NBA
*The NBA Draft First Round starts Thursday  – the Spurs have the first pick, followed by the Charlotte Hornets, Portland Trail Blazers, Houston Rockets and Detroit Pistons.
*The likely #1 pick in Thursday’s NBA Draft, Victor Wembanyama, arrived in the U.S. yesterday at Newark International Airport to crowds of fans already. 
*The 19 year old, 7 foot 5 French prospect who will likely be taken by the San Antonio Spurs, will be at a pre-draft media event tomorrow, then appear in the Green Room at the actual draft on Thursday.

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