Check Out These Great Companies for Job Opportunities!
Click on an employer logo to go to their website or listen to the corresponding audio file
JOBS IN THE AREA
BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS MAY 5, 2023
NURSE CHARGED WITH STEALING MEDS FROM PATIENTS
A Williamsport nurse is being charged with felony possession of controlled substances and more after he was interviewed by authorities and he admitted that he stole pain medication from patients at UPMC Williamsport over several months in 2022. According to North Central PA dot com, 29 year old Peter Silas Tubbs was audited for drug activity last October and police found a drug diversion incident – when a prescription drug is used in an unlawful way or is administered but undocumented. Tubbs was released on 25 thousand dollars unsecured bail and has a preliminary hearing this week.
DUI CHARGE FOR MOUNT CARMEL WOMAN
A Mount Carmel woman is facing charges for DUI, hit and run, and endangering a person since she was pregnant with twins at the time of the incident. According to Mount Carmel Borough police, Jennifer Garzelli, who is known for her community fundraising efforts, was apprehended in March after she allegedly drove while drunk, hitting a few houses and cars on her way from a bar. Police say Garzelli’s blood alcohol level was almost 5 times the legal limit and that she drove with a suspended license and no insurance. Garzelli was arraigned this week and released when she posted $40,000 cash bail.
PA LAWMAKERS REJECT SAFE INJECTION SITES
The PA Senate approved legislation to ban safe-injection sites in the Commonwealth; which is a facility where an opioid drug user can inject the drug with supervision, avoiding overdoses. According to Penn Live, Philadelphia has been in the midst of a legal battle over whether to open safe haven offices, despite the false thought that drugs are provided at these facilities. The bill to ban the sites passed 41-9 with every Republican in favor and Democrats with a split vote. Governor Shapiro has said he is opposed to the safe injection sites.
VAPE DETECTORS TO BE INSTALLED AT SCHICK
Vape detectors have been approved for Shikellamy Schools after directors there applied for the over 47 thousand dollar Safe School grant through district police Chief Shawn Williams to install the detectors this summer. According to the Daily Item, Superintendent Jason Bendle said 34 thousand of the grant will be used for the detectors which monitor noise, air quality and are tamper resistant. Williams says the detectors are educational for students and act as a deterrent to using vapes in schools.
ENDANGERMENT CHARGES FOR BRADFORD COUNTY WOMAN
A Bradford County woman has been charged with endangering the welfare of a child after state police were dispatched for the fourth time to the area for a child wandering unattended. According to North Central PA dot com, a neighbor discovered the child with no jacket or shoes around 8am on February 17th and called police. When troopers attempted to return the child to her home she cried and allegedly told police she didn’t want to go back and get hit. Police say 56 year old Penny Golden of Stevensville was taken into custody with no bail listed. Her preliminary hearing is May 23rd.
MAN CHARGED WITH CRUELTY TO ANIMALS
A Jersey Shore man who tied a female pitbull to a tree before he attempted to fatally shoot it in January, has plead guilty to several counts of animal cruelty after the animal, though injured, survived the shooting and was rescued by a passing motorist. According to the Lock Haven Express, James Standridge told police that he decided to kill the dog after she had attacked another dog in the house in front of children and once the shots were fired he left quickly after he saw a car nearby. A police investigation by Pine Creek Township police uncovered that Standridge was the shooter. He was charged with felony 3 aggravated cruelty to animals by torture and by inflicting serious bodily injury. His sentence, which could be a maximum of 14 years in prison, will be decided in the coming weeks in Clinton County Court.
UBLIC CAN COMMENT ON MD GUARD AIRSPACE ISSUE UNTIL MAY 17
Public comment over the controversial proposal by the Maryland Air National Guard to lower the altitude of training fighter jets over the Pennsylvania Wilds is open until May 17th. According to Spotlight PA, military officials claim the change for the threshold to be as low as 100 feet will not have a significant impact on the area. The Shapiro administration stated the military’s finding of no significant impact is flawed. The email and physical addresses to use for your comments can be found in the news section on any backyard broadcasting website. The guard currently operates at 8,000 feet above sea level and higher over all or part of Cameron, Clinton, Elk, McKean, Potter, and Tioga Counties in north-central Pennsylvania. Public comments can be emailed to [email protected], or mailed to Kristi Kucharek, National Guard Bureau, 3501 Fetchet Avenue, Joint Base Andrews, MD 20762-5157.
FIRST FRIDAY TONIGHT IN WILLIAMSPORT
It’s First Friday in downtown Williamsport tonight. Events include local restaurants offering small plates during a Taste of Williamsport, the UPMC kids Carnival with activities at West Fourth Street in the Williamsport/Lycoming Chamber of Commerce Parking lot and other activities. There will be food and art vendors, with live music with Williamsport School district students in Lamar Park and Gabe Stillman on Pine Street. The event is from 5- 9.
SPORTS
HS Baseball
Muncy 18 Bucktail 0
Warrior Run 4 Southern Columbia 2
Selinsgrove 16 Shikellamy 0
Mifflinburg 6 Danville 0
Elk Lake 14 Canton 11
Midd-West 9 Lewisburg 5
HS Softball
Montoursville 2 Lewisburg 0
Muncy 3 Bucktail 0
Northwest 5 Montgomery 2
Loyalsock 8 Midd-West 4
Bloomsburg 12 Hughesville 2
Warrior Run 9 Southern Columbia 2
Shamokin 12 Milton 2
NP Liberty 10 Athens 2
Mifflinburg 5 Central Columbia 2
MLB
Nationals 4 Cubs 3
Tigers 2 Mets 0
Rays 3 Pirates 2
Angels 11 Cardinals 7
Orioles 13 Royals 10
Twins 7 White Sox 3
Rockies 9 Brewers 6
Mariners 5 A’s 3
Braves 6 Marlins 3
Red Sox 11 Blue Jays 5
NBA
West Semifinals Game 2
Warriors 127 Lakers 100
NBA Tonight
East Semifinals Game 3 Series tied 1-1
Boston comes to Philly and tip off with the 76’ers at 7:30 on ESPN
West Semifinals Game 3
Denver @Phoenix 10pm on ESPN
NHL
East 1st Round Game 2
Panthers 3 Maple Leafs 2 (FL leads 2-0)
West 2nd Round Game 2
Stars 4 Kraken 2 (series tied 1-1)
NASCAR Sunday
AdventHealth400 @ Kansas Motor Speedway
PreRace coverage 2pm/ Green Flag at 3pm on Twin Valley’s Talk Radio Network or WILQ’s HD3
HORSE RACING
149th Kentucky Derby Saturday Post time 6:45pm at Churchill Downs
GOLF
2023 Wells Fargo Championship Round 2 today at Quail Hollow in North Carolina.
Rory McIlroy tees off at 12:54 p.m. ET with Matt Fitzpatrick and Jason Day.
BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS MAY 4, 2023
MAN JAILED FOR ASSAULTING TROOPERS
A Williamsport man was caught inside a Lycoming Creek Road apartment and attacked the state troopers who responded to apprehend him April 30th. According to the Sun Gazette, Christian King-Lewis threw items at and bit officers as they attempted to restrain him after he had broken windows and climbed into the apartment that was occupied at that time by an ex-girlfriend and two other of her friends. King-Lewis had bloody hands and face and he, along with both troopers who were injured were treated at UPMC Williamsport. After King-Lewis was discharged from the hospital, he was arraigned on charges of aggravated and simple assault, harassment, resisting arrest, disorderly conduct, felony trespassing and more. He is in the Lycoming County prison in lieu of 200 thousand dollars bail.
MAN CHARGED FOR THROWING ROCK AT A CAR
Hughesville police say a Muncy man threw a rock at a moving car in Picture Rocks on February 4th and is facing criminal mischief charges. According to the Sun Gazette, 28 year old Joseph Bradley Bower allegedly threw the rock at a car along Route 220 and Laurel Run Road which shattered the passenger side window, where passenger, Caleb Rooker was sitting. Rooker had minor injuries. Bower is free on 5 thousand dollars bail.
TIOGA COUNTY PAVING PROJECT TO CLOSE RAMP
Tioga County has a five month paving project starting this week that could close the ramp throughout the project at exit 179 off of Route 15. The ramp will be closed 3 days through this weekend for paving weather permitting and a detour will be in place using Route 15 north to Route 6 in Mansfield Borough. PennDOT says the contractor, HRI will be working on the 3.2 million dollar project into the summer from a mile south to a mile north of the Canoe Camp Creek exit. You can check 511PA dot com 24/7 to see if the closures are in place.
FOUR DAY WORK WEEK LEGISLATION INTRODUCED IN PA
State representatives from Dauphin, Chester and Lehigh counties introduced a bill in the House Friday that will give incentives to companies who implement a 4 day, 32 hour work week. According to WGAL, the companies who participate in the 4-day workweek pilot program through the Department of Labor and Industry, would be eligible for state tax credit. Supporters of the bill say a four day work week reduces employee stress and allows more flexibility with families.
MAN WHO SHOT AT TROOPERS SENTENCED
A man from Cogan House Township who shot at state troopers in a stand-off in April of 2021 was sentenced in Lycoming County court this week. According to the Sun Gazette, 25 year old Nakoma J Ross will spend 44 to 88 years behind bars for the shooting that began with him not taking mental health medication and led to the shots fired at troopers at a residence along Ross Road. One bullet hit a cruiser, but no one was injured in the incident. Ross must also pay over 8 thousand dollars in restitution.
VICTIM CHOKED IN DOMESTIC INCIDENT
A man from Mount Carmel was charged after a domestic incident brought police to his home on East Fifth Street. According to North Central PA dot com, 38 year old Jamie Stine was allegedly in a verbal argument on April 29th with the victim who police said he then punched and kept in a choke hold until he couldn’t breathe. He suffered minor injuries. Police arrested Stine at the scene and faces felony strangulation. He was jailed in Northumberland County in lieu of 35 thousand dollars cash bail.
NEW CONSTRUCTION IN TURBOTVILLE
Turbotville is seeing new construction this week as the 2023 Community Hall Renovation project there is underway. According to the Standard Journal, T-Ross Brothers Construction is working to install new double entry doors, and a bathroom remodel. The project funding which totals over 19 thousand dollars, is provided by the Ralph and Josephine Smith Fund at the First Community Foundation Partnership of Pennsylvania. The FCFP works to improve the quality of life in north central Pennsylvania through community leadership, the promotion of philanthropy, the strengthening of nonprofit impact, and perpetual stewardship.
CHILDREN’S BOOK WEEK IN WILLIAMSPORT
The James V. Brown Library is celebrating Children’s Book Week in downtown Williamsport this week. According to North Central PA dot com, parents, children, and book lovers alike can come to the library on 19 East Fourth Street through May 7th to find a favorite book and participate in fun activities that reflect the slogan for this year’s Children’s Book Week; “Read Books. Spark Change”. Research shows that parent involvement is the number one predictor of early childhood reading success and future academic achievement. Get details at jvbrown.edu.
SPORTS
HS Baseball
Hughesville 11 Southern Columbia 0
Wyalusing 11 Williamson 4
N. Penn Mansfield 15 Northern Potter 0
HS Softball
Bucktail 12 Montgomery 2
Benton 27 CMVT 17
MLB
Yankees 4 Guardians 3 /10
Tigers 6 Mets 5 in game 1
Tigers 8 Mets 1 in game 2
Diamondbacks 12 Rangers 7
Giants 4 Astros 2
Dodgers 10 Phillies 6
Padres 7 Reds 1
Braves 14 Marlins 6
Rays 8 Pirates 1
Nationals 2 Cubs 1
White Sox 6 Twins 4
Red Sox 8 Blue Jays 3
Royals 6 Orioles 0
Angels 3 Cardinals 4
Rockies 7 Brewers 1
Mariners 7 A’s 2
NBA
East Semifinals Game 2 / 1-1
Celtics 121 76ers 87
NBA Tonight, West Semifinals Game 2 – Lakers vs Golden State @9pm ESPN (LA up 1)
NHL
2nd Round Game 1, East
Hurricanes 5 Devils 1
West
Golden Knights 6 Oilers 4
HORSE RACING
The Kentucky Derby is this Saturday. The 149th Run for the Roses will be at the iconic Churchill Downs. Post time is 6:45pm
BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS MAY 3, 2023
MOTHER OF TEEN IN RELATIONSHIP WITH AN ADULT CHARGED
The mother of a 16 year old girl was charged with felony corruption of minors after denying to police that her daughter was involved with a 39 year old man who was staying at their home in Coal Township. According to North Central PA dot com, 41 year old Nicole Decker told Children and Youth Services nothing inappropriate was happening between her daughter and David Glatfelter, when they followed up on a tip to ChildLine on March 28th. Following an investigation, including an interview with the teen, a relationship with Glatfelter was revealed. Decker also told police that she didn’t reveal the relationship since she had been threatened by the man in the past and that he carries a firearm. Glatfelter fled the area and was last seen in New York State or Western PA and there is a warrant out for his arrest.
ACCIDENT BLOCKED TRAFFIC ON SOUTHSIDE
There was slow traffic on the South side of Williamsport yesterday afternoon around 5pm when a two vehicle accident shut down the major roadway for about 45 minutes. According to the Sun Gazette, three people were injured when a Subaru Ascent and a pickup crashed around the 300 block of Market Street. Tractor trailers, unable to turn around on the one way street were blocked-in southbound, while authorities diverted traffic onto West Southern Avenue. First responders from UPMC and Duboistown transported two victims to the hospital for minor injuries and one victim was treated at the scene.
SOUTHSIDE BUILDING CAN BE DEMOLISHED
After the owner of a property on the Southside of Williamsport near the Maynard Street Bridge appealed a demolition notice, a judge in Lycoming County ruled in favor of the borough, that the property, including the 3 story Protasio Building at the northeast corner of Riverside Drive, can be demolished. According to the Sun Gazette, Brad Gordner, owner of @Your Convenience store at that nearby location, requested that the court add a condition to the demolition notice for the blighted property, that it remain standing if it can be rehabilitated, but Judge Eric Linhardt would not include the condition and stated the demolition was not unreasonable.
BILL PASSED IN HOUSE TO KEEP MILK HAULERS ON THE ROAD
A new bill has been approved by the PA House, keeping those who haul milk on the road when a travel ban due to weather or a related disaster is in place. According to Senators Judy Ward and Gene Yaw, Senate Bill 153 was introduced after producers and processers of milk had to dispose of milk due to the weather-related commercial vehicle restrictions in place. The legislation calls for a special decal for licensed milk haulers. The bill now goes to the full Senate for consideration.
TWO MEN ARRESTED AFTER KULPMONT FIGHT
Two men got into a fight outside a Kulpmont bar last Thursday and following the altercation, one fled in a vehicle and crashed into parked vehicles Street. According to the News Item, police say 31 year old Christopher Henley of Shamokin allegedly started the altercation with 49 year old Wayne Bryan of Kulpmont, and they fought at the EndZone Bar & Grill until Bryan left the scene in his vehicle and crashed. State Troopers at Stonington responded to the accident and interviewed Bryan who told police the other suspect, Henley, had left. Police investigated and found the man had gone to Geisinger-Shamokin Area Community Hospital. Both were arrested with Henley remanded to Northumberland County Jail in lieu of $75,000 straight bail and Bryan released on 50 thousand dollars unsecured bail.
RUNAWAY FROM LATROBE FOUND IN WHITE DEER TWP
A 16 year old young woman who had run away from her Latrobe PA home last weekend, was found by state police in White Deer Township on Sunday. Troopers were on the lookout for the missing girl, when they observed her vehicle along I-80 east in Union County. The missing teen continued to elude police for 15 miles after they identified her until authorities had to lay spike strips on the interstate. She stopped the car before hitting the strips and she was taken into custody. She will face juvenile probation for fleeing and eluding, and was released to the custody of her parents.
FLOODING CLEARED, AREA ROADS REOPEN
The flooding conditions that closed area roads have been cleared on all the affected roadways listed this week, according to Penn DOT. In Northumberland County, Shakespeare Road between Hobbes Road and Purple Heart Highway just reopened yesterday afternoon in East Chillisquaque Township. Portions of Route 61 in and just outside the City of Sunbury that experienced detours this week are also back to normal.
EMERGENCY DRILL SATURDAY AT PENN COLLEGE
Penn College announced they will hold a full-scale emergency management exercise Saturday morning as a learning experience for students and others in emergency management fields. According to the press release, the drill is aligned with U.S. Department of Homeland Security methodology and protocols and will be as close to the real thing as possible, involving realistic elements like sights sounds and the operation of equipment. The public should be aware that this activity will take place 8am til noon May 6th on the Penn College property adjacent to the Bush Campus Center and the campus mall. Details at PCT dot EDU.
SPORTS
HS Baseball
Montgomery 17 Bucktail 0
Athens 12 Towanda 2
Canton 13 Sayre 4
Troy 8 Wellsboro 6
HS Softball
Troy 24 Wellsboro 8
Towanda 3 Athens 2
Liberty 6 Wyalusing 1
HS Tennis
Hughesville defeated Loyalsock 3-1
MLB
Yankees 4 Guardians 2
Braves 6 Marlins 0
Rays 4 Pirates 1
Nationals 4 Cubs 1
White Sox 3 Twins 2
Red Sox 7 Blue Jays 6
Orioles 11 Royals 7
Angels 5 Cardinals 1
Rangers 6 Diamondbacks 4
Giants 2 Astros 0
Rockies 3 Brewers 2
Mariners 2 A’s 1
Reds 2 Padres 1
Dodgers 13 Phillies 1
Mets and Tigers were postponed due to rain in Michigan.
NBA Playoffs
East Semifinals Game 2
Knicks 111 Heat 1051-1
West Semifinals Game 1
Lakers 117 Warriors 112
NBA Tonight
76’ers @ Boston tonight – 8pm on TNT
NHL Playoffs
East 2nd Round Game 1
Panthers 4 Maple Leafs 2
West 2nd Round Game 1
Kraken 5 Stars 4
BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS MAY 2, 2023
LINDEN MAN ARRESTED FOR CORRUPTING MINOR RELATIVE
A man from Linden is being charged with corruption of minors and other charges after police say he forced a 14 year old relative to drink alcohol and take drugs while at a cabin in Lewis Township in the summer of 2021. According to North Central PA dot com, the victim came forward to police last month about the actions of 43 year old Seth Michael Depasqua, who allegedly pressured the boy to smoke crack and humiliated him when he became sick. Depasqua was taken into custody by state troopers and has a preliminary hearing with no bail listed. According to court records, e is currently on probation for pleading guilty to endangering children and DUI in November of 2020.
MAN FACING FLEEING CHARGES FROM POLICE FLEES AGAIN
A man from Williamsport who is out on bail for felony charges of leading police on a chase in November of 2021, recently led police on another chase on a dirt bike after they attempted to pull him over March 22nd when they saw him run a stop sign at Sheridan and Sherman streets. When 24 year old Christopher Ralph Joshua was finally captured in the east end of Williamsport, police found the bike not registered and Joshua without a motorcycle endorsement on his license. His preliminary hearing is May 4th in district court.
FEDERAL FUNDS COME IN TWO GRANTS FOR AIRPORT
More federal money has been allocated for the Williamsport Municipal Airport in a move to continue to upgrade the facilities and potentially attract new carriers. According to the Sun Gazette, US Representative Dan Meuser of Dallas, who calls himself a vocal advocate for our local airport in Congress, announced the funding that came in two US Department of Transportation grants totaling 625 thousand dollars. The new funding is intended for installation of runway incursion lighting, and acquiring snow removal equipment, as well as money for rehabilitation of another area of the taxiway to maintain structural integrity of the pavement.
HAMM, FLICK, TO HOST STAND YOUR GROUND LAW SEMINAR
Two seminars to discuss the Castle Doctrine or stand your ground law hosted by two local lawmakers are coming this month and the public is invited to register for the programs. According to the Sun Gazette, State Representatives Joe Hamm of Hepburn Township and Jamie Flick of South Williamsport intend the seminars to be an important refresher of Pennsylvania gun-laws for law-abiding gun owners of the community. The first seminar will be held May 9th at the Woodward Township Volunteer Fire Company on Route 220 in Linden at 6pm and the second, May 17th at the Duboistown Fire department at 6pm. You’re encouraged to register at repjoehamm.com/events or repflick.com/events.
FATAL ACCIDENT IN CLEVELAND TOWNSHIP
A Catawissa man died in a car accident that happened Sunday in Cleveland Township. According to the Standard-Journal, 23 year old Andrew Shoup of Cabin Drive, drove off of Middle Road, approximately a tenth-of-a-mile east of the intersection with Hollow Road in his 2006 Ford sedan at an undetermined time according to police. Shoup who struck a tree and overturned in his vehicle, was found by first responders just after 6am inside in Locust Township. The Columbia County Deputy Coroner Jonathan Broadt declared the man deceased at the scene.
SIGNAL LIGHT OUT OFF OF MAYNARD STREET
An accident has damaged a signal light in the city of Williamsport and motorists are to be advised of new traffic considerations until it is repaired. The traffic signal at the Sheetz and Wendy’s at the Fairfield Inn is currently not operational. If you are traveling on Maynard Street expect free flowing traffic at this intersection. Motorists traveling from Sheetz / Wendy’s and the Fairfield Inn hotel side streets onto Maynard Street can expect a stop sign. Check conditions on major roadways by visiting www.511PA.com available 24 hours a day.
TRAVEL DELAYS DURING PAVING ON 220 NORTH
There could be travel delays in the afternoon this week on Route 220 northbound in Woodard and Piatt townships. According to a press release from PennDOT, Glenn O. Hawbaker, is expected to pave the wearing course between Browns Lane and Levels Corners Road. Delays are expected, between the hours of 2:00 PM and 4:00 PM w with possible residual delays into the evening hours. . Motorists should watch for the slow-moving traffic on 220.
JOB FAIR WITH CROSSCUTTERS NEXT WEEK
A job fair is coming up with the Williamsport Crosscutters Wednesday May 10th. According to crosscutters dot com, interested individuals 16 and over can apply in person at Muncy Bank Ballpark at Historic Bowman Field, 1700 W. Fourth St., Williamsport Wednesday the 10th from 5 to 7pm, rain or shine. There are job descriptions for the dozens of positions available and most start at ten dollars per hour. The schedule for the summer starts June 1st and goes until September 2nd. Candidates with an outgoing personality and willingness to work can go to crosscutters dot com, and print an application to fill it out prior to the event.
PENN STATE TO VOTE ON STADIUM FUNDS
A vote on authorizing the 70 million dollars it will take for the initial phase to upgrade Beaver Stadium in State College, will take place this Friday by Penn State University trustees at University Park. According to TribLive, Penn State officials say revenues from intercollegiate athletics will pay for the costs and that no tuition or other educational funding will be spent on the stadium, for design, consultants, permit acquisitions, stadium winterization, and related expenses. The seating capacity will remain at just over 100 thousand and will include renovations to enhance accessibility and upgrade concession quality and capacity. Field lighting improvements to meet NCAA standards are also planned. There is no timetable or projected costs at this time for the project.
SPORTS
HS Baseball
Hughesville 9 Bloomsburg 1
South Williamsport 10 Montgomery 0
HS Softball
Central Columbia 9 Hughesville 8
South Williamsport 8 Midd-West 3
Northwest 7 Benton 1
NBA
Philly took Game 1 in the East Semi-finals
76ers 119 Celtics 115
Denver leads in the West 2-0 defeating the Suns
Denver 97 Phoenix 87
MLB
Braves 9 Mets 8 in Game 1
Mets 5 Braves 3 in Game 2
Guardians 3 Yankees 2
Cubs 5 Nationals 1
Red Sox 6 Blue Jays 5
Astros 7 Giants 3
Padres 8 Reds 3
Dodgers 13 Phillies 4
NHL
Devils 4 Rangers 0 East 1st Round Game 7 New Jersey wins 4-3
NHL Tomorrow 2nd Round East & West
Panthers vs Maple Leafs & Kraken vs. Stars (7 & 9:30 on ESPN)
NASCAR
Martin Truex Jr got the checkered flag at the Monster Mile for the 3rd time in his career, snapping a 54-race winless streak overall in the Cup Series.
….Followed by Ross Chastain, Ryan Blaney, William Byron, and Denny Hamlin, rounding out the top five.
BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS MAY 1, 2023
FLOODING FROM HEAVY RAIN CLOSES AREA ROADS
The heavy rain came down over the weekend and flooding has affected some roadways in our area. According to PennDOT in Montour County, Route 54 has reopened between Interstate 80 and Route 254 in Washingtonville Borough. Sunbury Road is reopened at Avenue G and Kipps Run Road in Riverside Borough. In Northumberland County, Route 61 or the Hamilton underpass remains closed between Route 890 in Upper Augusta Township and Eleventh Street in the City of Sunbury. Get the details of your commute around Pennsylvania at 511PA dot com.
FORMER PRISON GUARD AND SERIAL RAPIST HAS SENTENCE UPHELD
A former Pennsylvania State prison guard from Shamokin who kidnapped and raped women from 3 counties between 2012 and 2017, has had his conviction and sentence affirmed by the state Superior Court after an appeal. According to Penn Live, attorneys for 47 year old John E. Kurtz argued his sentence from being found guilty on 43 counts in consolidated cases from Northumberland, Columbia, and Montour counties of 59 to 280 years, was excessive, but a court panel rejected the argument over the nature of the crimes in which victims were surprised in their homes and kidnapped prior to the assault. Kurtz has been jailed since he was arrested when he arrived at SCI Coal Township in December 2017.
HOMICIDE CHARGES DROPPED
A Williamsport woman who has been held without bail on homicide charges from a fatal shooting of 27 year old Amir Nobles, on Bridge Street in 2020, has had the charges withdrawn against her. According to Penn Live, 21 year old Shakya Aiyona El had been accused of luring Nobles, of Philadelphia, to the spot in the city where he was ambushed. Lycoming County First Assistant District Attorney Martin Wade said in light of new information, charges against El will be withdrawn and charges will be filed against a new suspect who has not yet been identified.
FUNDING FOR LOCAL GARDENS
American Rescue Plan Funds are heading to historic Way’s Garden along West Fourth and Maynard Streets in Williamsport. According to the SUN Gazette, Williamsport City Council approved the $175,000 investment. Other improvements to the garden are funded by a contribution of $25,000 by Lycoming County and fundraisers by the Way’s Garden Commission. At the Thursday Williamsport City Council Meeting, the Council also moved to transfer $2,500 to revive the community garden at Lose Park in the 900 block of Memorial Avenue.
SUSPICIOUS DEATH INVESTIGATION IN DANVILLE
There was a suspicious death of a Danville man that has state police continuing an investigation. According to the Daily Item, Stonington State Police say they were called to the scene of 331 Logan Run Road Sunday, April 23rd. to assist the Northumberland County Coroner. The investigation centers around the death of 92 year old Frederick Jones of Danville. No other details have been released.
FORMER STUDENT THREATENS LEWISBURG SCHOOL
Misdemeanor terroristic threat charges have been filed against a former Lewisburg Area High School student who allegedly sent threatening messages through social media saying he intended to harm people at the school. According to the Daily Item, Paul J. Davis, of South Abington Township, allegedly sent direct messages to an unnamed student on March 28 and said he threatened to exact revenge on everyone at Lewisburg. The charges were filed against Davis at District Judge Jeffery A. Rowe’s Lewisburg office.
ACCIDENT REPORT CARD FROM PA
The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation announced that in 2022, statewide traffic deaths decreased in 2021. Reportable crashes were also down in 2022, amounting to the second lowest on record since 1951. However, fatalities in distracted driving crashes and head-on crashes reached a 10-year high, while fatalities in crashes at signalized intersections reached a 20-year high. Pedestrian fatalities reached the second highest number in 20 years, while fatalities in crashes involving 65–74-year-old drivers reached the third highest number in 20 years.
PROTOCOL FOR SCHOOLS’ TREATMENT OF TICK BITES
Pennsylvania has introduced legislation that will ensure schools have standard protocol to follow when removing ticks from a student at school, after the state is among the leaders in the nation in the number of Lyme disease cases. According to the Sun Gazette, the vote passed in the PA Senate 49-1 to require parental notification about a tick’s removal, which would include recommendations to seek medical treatment and for the tick to be preserved for testing. The bill will go to the House for consideration. The CDC says 1 in every 100 residents of PA gets Lyme disease each year.
SPORTS
MLB
Red Sox 7 Guardians 1
Marlins 4 Cubs 3National 7 Pirates 2
Mariners 10 Blue Jays 8
Orioles 5 Tigers 3
Angels 3 Brewers 0
Twins 8 Royals 4
White Sox 12 Rays 9
Rangers 15 Yankees 2
Rockies 12 Diamondbacks 4
Padres 6 Giants 4
A’s 5 Reds 4
Dodgers 6 Cardinals 3
Astros 4 Phillies 3
Braves and Mets were postponed due to rain
NBA
Heat 108 Knicks 101 Semi Finals Game 1
Warriors 120 Kings 100 Game 7 Golden State wins 4-3
NBA Playoffs Tonight
East Semifinals Game 1
76ers vs Celtics @7:30 TNT
West Semifinals Game 2
Suns and Nuggets @10 TNT
NHL
East 1st Round
Panthers 4 Bruins 3 Florida Panthers win 4-3
West 1st Round
Kraken 2 Avalanche 1 Seattle wins 4-3
NASCAR
The Wurth 400 in Dover, Delaware was rained out Sunday afternoon
and will try again @noon today at Dover Motor Speedway @ The Monster Mile on our sister station Twin Valley’s Talk Radio Network and WILQ’s HD3.
BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS APRIL 28, 2023
TEACHER CHARGED FOR FAILING TO REPORT ABUSE
A Milton Area kindergarten teacher has been charged with a misdemeanor of failure to report suspected child abuse in a timely manner as a mandated reporter. According to the Standard Journal, 51 year old Baugher Elementary School teacher, Jacqueline Martin of Winfield faces the charges after an alleged incident at the school was reported in February but police say information was received earlier in January. Court documents say that Martin waited 22 days to make a referral to ChildLine over concerns brought up by a child’s family member. Police say the delay could have put the child in more danger and filed the charges. The Milton School District did not comment on Martin’s current employment status. She has a preliminary hearing May 17th.
SENTENCING FOR CONTRACTOR WHO TOOK MONEY FOR NO WORK
A Williamsport business owner who pleaded guilty to taking money and not completing construction work in several cases was sentenced yesterday to 2 and a half to seven years in state prison and was also charged with more of the same third-degree felonies as owner and operator of Keystone Lift and Elevator, LLC. According to North Central PA dot com, 44 year old Michael Bloom also faces sentencing in Luzerne County on similar charges and has been charged with crimes throught the state. President Judge Nancy Butts ordered Bloom to report to the Lycoming County Prison next Friday morning. According to court records, Bloom still owes thousands of dollars in restitution.
FACILITY DOG APPROVED FOR JERSEY SHORE
The Jersey Shore Area School Board approved funding for a facility dog to be used primarily in the halls of the high school. According to the Sun Gazette, the board said OK to an agreement to select, train, and place one facility dog by the end of next year. The costs of the agreement are covered by grant money and will begin in phases from selection of a dog, to caretaker and handler training. There is an option for annual evaluation and continuing education seminar through Dog Sense LLC. The dog could eventually be used throughout the district.
WINDBREAKERS NEED FUNDS FOR NATIONAL COMPETITION
The WindBreakers, fifth graders from Montgomery Elementary School have won the KidWind competition hosted by PennState for the second year in a row. The team must now raise nine thousand dollars to get to the National Competition in Boulder, Colorado, May 14th through the17th. If you would like to contribute to the team, a check or money can be sent to Montgomery Area School District, 120 Penn Street Montgomery. Make checks out to Montgomery PTO with KidWind on the memo line. The competition challenges elementary, middle and high school students to compete in renewable energy related tasks.
MAN CHARGED IN TRESSPASSING, BURGLARY INCIDENT
A resident in a McClure apartment used a baseball bat to defend himself when four people broke into his East Walker Street apartment on Monday at about 2:45am. According to the Daily Item, one of four teenage intruders was struck in the head by the resident, before all four ran from the property and escaped in a grey Toyota Corolla. Police say they found an alleged suspect with a severe head injury had arrived at Evangelical Community Hospital soon after the incident with two other males. Police say 18 year old Collin G. Hoffman was there, and originally told them the attack of his 15 year old friend happened over a basketball game, but then admitted going to the East Walker Street apartment with three others to retrieve a cell phone and look for other valuables. Hoffman was arrested and is in Snyder County prison facing felony burglary charges in lieu of 20 thousand dollars cash bail.
INMATE INJURED TRYING TO ESCAPE
A female inmate at Northumberland County Prison was injured and is now facing felony attempted escape charges after she tried to climb a fence topped with razor wire March 28th. According to the Northumberland County District Attorney’s office 31-year-old Stormie Birster, who has been jailed since July or 2022, tried to climb from an outdoor recreation area. Prison authorities say Birster suffered numerous injuries and lacerations from the escape attempt and was treated at Geisinger Danville.
PIPE REPLACEMENT PROJECT STARTS THIS WEEK
PennDOT started a pipe replacement project yesterday and a detour will be in place for the duration of it. According to a press release, watch for crews along Susquehanna Trail which will see closures in Lewis and Delaware Townships during the day between 7am and 5pm . Susquehanna Trail will see the work being done between Route 54 and Eighth Street weather permitting. A detour will be in place until the work is complete. Watch for traffic using Route 54, Route 44, and Eighth Street.
SCAMMERS PRETEND TO BE DEPUTY SHERIFFS
The Clinton County Sheriff’s Office has released a statement about scam phone calls that are being reported in the area. According to the Record online, scammers call victims and falsely represent deputy sheriffs, saying the victim has a warrant or needs to served civil paperwork, and offering a way out by paying money or providing personal information. According to Sheriff Kerry Stover, a call may come from the police about these issues, but there is not a “way out” of the papers. Do not fall victim to these calls, or give out any personal information.
SPORTS
HS Baseball
Loyalsock 8 Warrior Run 4
Montgomery 18 Sugar Valley 7
Northwest 4 Benton 1
Millville 9 Sullivan County 2
Athens 10 Northeast Bradford 2
Sayre 12 Mansfield 6
HS Softball
Jersey Shore 2 Williamsport 1
Montoursville 7 Mifflinburg 2
Loyalsock 12 Hughesville 3
Wyalusing 5 Towanda 0
Bloomsburg 3 Southern Columbia 1
NE Bradford 4 Athens 3
Selinsgrove 12 Danville 8
Lewisburg 10 Shamokin 8
Midwest 7 Warrior Run 3
Central Columbia 13 Milton 3
MLB
Marlins 5 Braves 4
Pirates 6 Dodgers 2
Phillies 1 Mariners 0
Cubs 5 Padres 2
Cardinals 6 Giants 0
Angels 8 A’s 7
Orioles 7 Tigers 4
Rays 14 White Sox 5
Mets 9 Nationals 8
Twins 7 Royals 1
Yankees 4 Rangers 2
NBA
Celtics 128 Hawks 120
Boston wins the series 4-2
Game 6 in the West 1st Round Tonight
@8pm Kings vs the Warriors –
Golden State leads 3-2
@10:30 Grizzlies vs the Lakers –
LA leads 3-2
NHL
East
Lightning 4 Maple Leafs 2
Toronto leads the series 3-2
Devils 4 Rangers 0
NJ leads 3-2
West
Golden Knights 4 Jets 1
Vegas wins the series 4-1
NASCAR Sunday it’s the Wurth 400 at Dover International Speedway
Pre-race coverage starts at 1 PM on the Twin Valley’s Talk Radio Network or WILQ HD3
BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS APRIL 27, 2023
HEALTH CARE COMPANIES TO MERGE
Two major healthcare companies are expected to join forces soon as they await state and federal regulatory approval. According to a joint news release from Kaiser Permanente of California and Geisinger in Danville, Pennsylvania the two systems will merge and Geisinger will become a not-for-profit community health system called Risant Health, a new organization created by Kaiser Foundation Hospitals. The definitive agreement makes Geisinger the first health system to join the new non-profit system, which means Geisinger patients have access to improved technologies and more affordable care, according to the company. It will be headquartered in Washington DC.
TWO MURDER SUSPECTS HELD FOR COURT
There is sufficient evidence against two men accused of being involved in the killing of a Williamsport man in a Campbell Street apartment in October of 2020 to be held for court. According to the Sun Gazette 21 year old Seneca Martin Mitchell Jr., and 22 year old Rocellus Carter, known as “Ziggy”, were arrested last month in connection with the fatal shooting of 18 year old Semaj Mozee in his second floor apartment while his 14 year old sister looked on. Mitchell and Carter both face a host of charges including criminal homicide, burglary, aggravated assault and more. They are incarcerated at Lycoming County Prison on no bail.
POWER OUTAGE CAUSED BY EXPLOSION
A reported explosion at an electrical substation was the alleged catalyst that cut power to an estimated 24 hundred customers in Montgomery Borough late Tuesday afternoon. According to the Sun Gazette, the PPL substation outside the borough on Route 54 may have experienced an explosion, but no fire was reported at the location after an investigation was started. The Lycoming County Department of Emergency Services was in contact with PPL crews at the time of the incident, and power to the Montgomery community is restored , according to the PPL outage map.
HELP POLICE IDENTIFY A TRUCK USED IN WATSONTOWN THEFT
The public is being asked to identifying a vehicle that was allegedly used in a theft that occurred last winter. According to a press release from Pennsylvania State Police the Dodge Ram Single cab truck made between the years 2010 to 2018 that was seen involved in the theft of two can AM utility vehicles from two residences in Watsontown. The silver truck is either a 2500 or 3500 with tinted windows chrome grill and black racing stripes on the hood. It hauled a Haulmark trailer with stickers on both sides. If you have information about the truck or the theft that occurred in December of 2022, call Montoursville State Police at 570-368-5700.
INMATE CHARGED WITH CARRYING MAKESHIFT WEAPON
An inmate awaiting trial for allegedly shooting, stabbing and dumping the body of a 17 year old Williamsport teen in 2001 during a drug deal gone bad, was found with a weapon in a Columbia County prison. According to the Press Enterprise, 45 year old Brian Gregory Quinn was found with a sharpened toothbrush during a surprise search in March. Quinn was arrested last March by US Marshals in New Jersey in the cold case of the death of Shamar Washington and was incarcerated in Bloomsburg. He now faces additional charges of illegally possessing or procuring a weapon as an inmate.
MAN ARRESTED AFTER DOMESTIC INCIDENT
A Lock Haven man has been charged with theft and drug possession by Mill Hall police after they responded to a domestic incident in Castenea Township Tuesday. According to the Record Online, Thor Albert Glenn allegedly took car keys and a phone from a victim and would not return them even when police requested he return the items. Glenn was then arrested for the theft as well as possession of marijuana, which was seized by police, along with a loaded handgun, during a search. He was taken to the Clinton County Correctional Facility, and police say the investigation will continue.
SHAPIRO ANNOUNCES MORE INDUSTRY EXPANSION IN PA
In another move to build economic prosperity in the Commonwealth, Governor Shapiro announced that a global leader in energy and telecommunications systems is looking to expand their existing Williamsport facility, eventually creating new jobs. According to the Sun Gazette, Prysmian Group North America is looking to create 27 new positions locally and over 400 jobs statewide. Earlier this month, Shapiro announced a $300 million expansion in semiconductor component manufacturing in Schuylkill County. Prysmian Group plans to expand their manufacturing space to more than 51 thousand square feet for their manufacturing of underground and submarine cables and systems.
UPMC TAKING APPOINTMENTS FOR SKIN CANCER SCREENINGS
In recognition of National Skin Cancer and Melanoma Awareness month, UPMC will offer free skin cancer screenings at two locations on May 1st and 2nd. According to North Central PA dot com, those interested can make an appointment in Williamsport at the UPMC Community Life Center at the River Valley Regional YMCA starting at 8:30am til 4pm May 1st. Or make an appointment for Tuesday the 2nd of May at UPMC Specialty Care on St Mary Street in Lewisburg from 8-3pm. Results will be given immediately and follow-ups recommended if needed. Details at UPMC dot com forward slash Melanoma NCPA.
SPORTS
HS Baseball
Williamsport 4 Shikellamy 1
Milton 10 Jersey Shore 0
Hughesville 5 Loyalsock 4
Bloomsburg 7 Warrior Run 6
Lewisburg 9 Danville 4
Troy 14 Cowanesque Valley 4
Mount Carmel 13 Southern Columbia 3
Selinsgrove 11 Shamokin 5
HS Softball
Northwest 12 St John Neumann 1
Montgomery 18 CMVT 1
Sullivan County 13 Sugar Valley 2
Lourdes Regional 17 Jim Thorpe 1
Cowanesque Valley 6 Troy 3
Bucktail 14 Benton 1
MLB
Guardians 4 Rockies 1
Reds 5 Rangers 3
Orioles 6 Red Sox 2
Blue Jays 8 White Sox 0
Yankees 12 Twins 6
Brewers 6 Tigers 2
Diamondbacks 2 Royals 0
Pirates 8 Dodgers 1
Astros 1 Rays 0
Phillies 6 Mariners 5
Nationals 4 Mets 1
Braves 6 Marlins 4
Padres 5 Cubs 3
Angels 11 A’s 3
Giants 7 Cardinals 3
NBA
East
Knicks 106 Cavaliers 95 New York wins the series 4-1
Heat 128 Bucks 126 Miami wins the series 4-1
West
Grizzlies 116 Lakers 99 LA leads 3-2
Warriors 123 Kings 116 Golden State leads 3-2
NHL
East
Panthers 4 Bruins 3 1st Round Game 5 Boston leads 3-2
West
Kraken 3 Avalanche 2 1st Round Game 5 Seattle leads 3-2
NFL
The 2023 NFL Draft starts tonight on ESPN with 1st Round picks. The Dolphins lost their #21 1st Round Pick to the LA Chargers. The Panthers are the #1 Pick, the Eagles get the #10 and #30 pick in the 1st Round, the Steelers pick at #17,
BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS APRIL 26, 2023
ACCIDENT SPILLS FROZEN FOOD NEAR THE INTERSTATE
A truck driver escaped major injury after an accident that spilled frozen food all over an area off of I-80 in Union County Saturday afternoon. According to the Daily Item, a collision between a passenger car driven by 46 year old Jason Kishel of Saylorsburg, was struck by 32 year old Kurtley Roberts who was shifting lanes in the Kensworth Northwest truck, according to police. The trailer separated from the cab, flipping, and spilling packages on an embankment south of the interstate around mile marker 207. Police say Roberts was briefly trapped in the cab but was extricated with minor injuries, he was treated at Geisinger Danville, and cited with a traffic violation, the other driver was not injured in the crash.
MAN JAILED AFTER BEING CAUGHT SITTING IN CARS
A Williamsport man has been jailed after he caused a disturbance entering cars and knocking on doors at a High Street apartment complex. According to North Central PA dot com, police were called when witnesses say 44 year old Robert Maurice Degree was beeping car horns and sitting in vehicles in the complex parking lot at about 3am April 8th. Degree has been charged with third degree misdemeanors and is being held at the Lycoming County prison in lieu of 5 thousand dollars bail and a preliminary hearing May 4th.
MISSING BERWICK TEEN SEEN IN TURBOT TOWNSHIP
State Police say a teenager from Berwick is missing and last seen in Turbot Township, Northumberland County. According to State police at Milton, the 14 year old male went missing last Saturday after last being seen at a location on Broadway Road. The teen is wearing a black beanie, green hoodie, blue t-shirt, and dark pants. If you have information about the missing teen from Berwick last seen in the Valley, call State Police at Milton, 570-524-2662.
NASCAR LEGEND WILL DRIVE AT LOCAL SPEEDWAY
NASCAR Legend Kenny Schrader is set to drive at Clinton County Speedway this September as part of their 35th anniversary season. According to the speedway schedule, the NY-Penn IMCA Modified Series has recently been added to the schedule and Schrader will compete at the 1/3 mile oval on September 15th. Get details about races all season at www.clintoncountyspeedway.com.
WIFE FOUND GUILTY OF FIRST DEGREE MURDER
The 78 year old woman on trial for homicide after her husband died of poisoning in 2018, was convicted Monday in Union County Court and may face life in prison. According to the Daily Item, a jury took just under an hour to decide that Myrle Miller planned to kill 77 year-old John Nichols of Millmont and is guilty of first-degree murder, insurance fraud, theft, forgery, perjury and dealing in proceeds from unlawful activity. Police told the court that Miller gave Nichols her own prescription medication and other medications with the intent to make his heart fail, and that Miller panicked and set the plan to kill Nichols in motion when he called the Union County Area on Aging to report his money being stolen April 5th. He died April 18th. A sentencing date for Miller will be scheduled within 90 days.
PORCH THIEF FORMALLY CHARGED
The man who was recently caught stealing packages off of porches in Williamsport has officially been charged with theft for this second incident. According to the Sun Gazette, 46 year old Jerry Lee Nicholas is facing charges this time from when he allegedly stole three packages off a porch and was caught on camera by police who recognized him from his driver’s license. Nicholas is also being charged in a similar case in which he stole 16 packages from a porch in South Williamsport on March 23rd. Nicholas waived his preliminary hearing and was released on 5 thousand dollars bail.
SPONGY MOTH SPRAYING ON THE WAY
The Pennsylvania Game Commission plans to spray nearly 110,000 acres of state game lands this spring for spongy moths, previously known as gyspy moths, which are a destructive, invasive pest. According to the Standard Journal, spraying will occur on 43 different state game lands as soon as leaf-out occurs and spongy moth egg masses hatch, likely in late April and May. This agent generally is considered safe to humans. A map updating the status of spraying is available at pgc.pa.gov.
FIRST FRIDAY VENDOR FEATURES BOOTH FOR FAMILIES
On First Friday in Williamsport on May 5th, the UPMC Pediatric Rehabilitation Center will set up activities for families to help celebrate their 100th Anniversary. According to the Sun Gazette, on May 5th staff members from the UPMC center will have their section at First Friday open early hours for the kids from 5 til 7 in the parking lot next to the Williamsport Lycoming Chamber of Commerce building on Fourth Street. In case of bad weather, the event will take place at Liberty Arena.
SPORTS
HS Baseball
Muncy 9 Sullivan County 0
N. Penn Mansfield 7 Canton 6
Athens 4 Williamson 2
Wellsboro 11 Sayre 5
HS Softball
Wellsboro 10 Sayre 0
College Baseball
Doubleheader yesterday for Penn College at Penn State Altoona
Penn College 10 Penn State Altoona 8 in Game 1
In Game 2
Penn College 11 Penn State Altoona 4
Lycoming College 4 Delaware Valley 2
College Softball
Doubleheader Game 1
Penn College blanked Penn State Harrisburg 7-0,
In Game 2
Penn College 9 Penn State Harrisburg 1 at Elm Park in Williamsport yesterday
MLB
Rockies 5 Guardians 1
Red Sox 8 Orioles 6
Dodgers 8 Pirates 7
Astros 5 Rays 0
Mariners 5 Phillies 3
Reds 7 Rangers 6
Bluejays 7 White Sox 0
Nationals 5 Mets 0
Braves 7 Marlins 4
Tigers 4 Brewers 3
Twins 6 Yankees 2
Cubs 6 Padres 0
Angels 5 A’s 3
Royals 5 Diamondbacks 4
Giants 5 Cardinals 4
NBA
Hawks 119 Celtics 117 in the East 1st Round Game five – Boston leading 3-2
In the West
Nuggets 112 Timberwolves 109
Denver wins the series 4-1
Phoenix 136 LA Clippers 130
The Suns win their series 4-1
NHL
Islanders 3 Hurricanes 2 East 1st Round Game 5 Carolina leading 3-2
In the West Game 5s
Stars 4 Wild 0 Dallas leads 3-2
Oilers 6 Kings 3 Edm. leads 3-2
Backyard Broadcasting App
Scan the QR Code with your device to download the Backyard Broadcasting app
or find Backyard Broadcasting in iTunes or the Google Play Store.
