BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS DECEMBER 21, 2022

MAN KILLED BY HIS OWN TRUCK

A Bradford County man was killed earlier this month when his water tanker truck rolled over him at a fill site in Cascade Township, and the Lycoming County Coroner has completed the investigation into the incident.  According to the Sun Gazette, County Coroner Charles Kiessling, Jr. said 74 year old Donald Maus of Troy was struck by his tanker truck that had not had the emergency brake applied on an incline about 6:30am December 9th after Maus left the cab to secure the gate at the site off of Rose Valley Road.  Kiessling said Maus was killed instantly by the impact and the truck continued another 100 yards crashing into a power pole and going off the roadway.  There were no witnesses, but a neighbor called 911 after hearing the crash. Stae police and Trout Run volunteer firefighters responded.

COUPLE WRITES BAD CHECK FOR NEW TRUCK

A Mifflinburg woman who recently pleaded no contest to access device fraud charges for allegedly using her employers credit card in August to charge more than $26,000 in personal expenses, has been charged with felony receiving stolen property and misdemeanor writing bad checks. According to North Central PA dot com, 39 year old Tonya Marie Struble along with 36 year old Casey Jay Zimmerman wrote a 15 thousand dollar check to a car dealership for a down payment on a new truck knowing they didn’t have the money.  After the dealership sent several certified letters and the couple claimed they would deposit the money, they could not cover the check.  They said they would not  return the truck worth over 52 thousand dollars.  Both Struble and Zimmerman were arraigned December 1st under 15 thousand dollars unsecured bail.

UTILITY WORK IN WHITE DEER TOWNSHIP TODAY

A portion of White Deer Pike and West Brimmer Avenue will be closed today in White Deer Township, Union County and Watsontown, Northumberland County for a utility project.  According to PennDOT, White Deer Pike will be closed between Old Route 15 in White Deer Township and Route 405 in Watsontown, while Windstream replaces wires across the roadway. A detour using local roadways will be in place while work is being performed between the hours of 7:30am and 2:00pm, weather permitting. Get the details of PA roadways at 511pa.com

MORGAN MILES INVITED TO PERFORM  AT THE RYMAN

Native Williamsport musician Morgan Miles, who was a recent finalist on the national music contest, NBC’s “The Voice”, has been invited to perform on the Grand Old Opry Stage at The Ryman next month in Nashville. According to the Sun Gazette, Miles will play her original music at the event, her next performance following directly after the finals of the TV show recently filmed in Los Angeles.  While a student at Loyalsock Township High School 20 years ago, Miles studied at the Uptown Music Collective and performed in school musical productions.  You can get tickets to Morgan Mile’s performance for Friday January 6th at opry dot com.

AUTHORITIES DETERMINE DEATH OF DANVILLE MAN A HOMICIDE

After an investigation into the death of a 27 year old dependent man from Danville, by the Danville Police Department, PA State Police and the Montour County District Attorney’s Office, as well as an autopsy by the Montour County Coroner’s Office, they determined it to be a homicide due to the man being physically restrained.  According to North Central PA dot com, Adam Kortes died July 21st while under the care of his parents, 67 year old Richard Kortes and 59 year old Kristine Kortes, and they were arrested for involuntary manslaughter, unlawful restraint, tampering with physical evidence, and other charges. They  are incarcerated in lieu of 10 thousand dollars bail each with a preliminary hearing on December 29th.

SELINSGROVE OFFICER SUSPENDED FOR TEXT MESSAGES

The employment status of a veteran Selinsgrove police officer will be discussed at tonight’s Borough Council meeting, after he allegedly sent threatening text messages and emails to newly hired Chief Shanee Mitchell. According to local media outlets,  Officer Scott Grove is now off the job with pay for sending messages such as “Walk Away” or “Leave Selinsgrove” that may or may not be racially motivated.  Mitchell said she hadn’t noticed any negative interactions with Grove before the messages were sent.  Mitchell is the Valley’s first black and female police chief .

RENT REBATE PROGRAM DEADLINE DECEMBER 31

Pennsylvanians 65 and older, widows and widowers aged 50 and older, and people with disabilities who are at least 18 have until December 31st to apply for Pennsylvania’s rent and property tax rebate program, which saw a recent increase from lawmakers in the latest state budget.  It aims to help older and disabled Pennsylvanians with annual income limit of $35,000 per year for homeowners and $15,000 per year for renters.  The funding boost signed into law by Gov. Tom Wolf for  a one-time bonus rebate from the federal American Rescue Plan Act.  According to the Record online, local Area Agencies on Aging, senior centers and representatives from the he Department of Revenue can help with the MYPath or paper application.

E-BIKES APPROVED FOR STATE PARKS

The Department of Natural Resources has approved E-bikes for use on lands around state parks and forests with some safety guidelines in place for riders.  According to the DCNR website, bikes that weigh less than 100 pounds, have motors that do not exceed 20 miles per hour or 750 watts, and have operable pedals are ok for use.  Other lands open to the public in Pennsylvania (such as federal lands, local parks, gamelands, and preserves) have different requirements related to e-bikes. Users should check the guidelines before they travel to their destination. Designated hiking trails are not open for e-bikes.

SPORTS

PIAA D4
Boys Basketball
Shamokin 56               Loyalsock 45
Milton 49                    Central Columbia 44
Danville 63                  Hughesville 55
Girls Basketball
Central Columbia 39   Mount Carmel 36
Loyalsock 46               Williamsport 34
S. Williamsport 63      St. John Neumann 44
Canton 50                   North Penn-Liberty 36
Line Mountain 46       Muncy 33
Wrestling
Milton 40                    Lewisburg 29
Montgomery 49          Hughesville 17
Montoursville 71         Shamokin 6
Shikellamy 72             Loyalsock 6
Southern Col. 41         Muncy 24

NBA
Jazz 126              Pistons 111
Bulls 113            Heat 103
Knicks 132         Warriors 94
Wizards 113       Suns 110
Nuggets 105       Grizzlies 91



NHL
Flyers 5               Blue Jackets 3
Penguins 3          Rangers 2
Hurricanes 4       Devils 1
Maple Leafs 4     Lightning 1
Jets 5                   Senators 1
Kraken 5             Blues 2
Kings 4                Ducks 1
Flames 7              Sharks 3
NCAA Bowl Games Today
R&L Carriers New Orleans Bowl in New Orleans, LA
Western Kentucky v South Alabama 9pm –  ESPN
Bowl Games Tomorrow
Lockheed Martin Armed Forces Bowl in Fort Worth, TX  
Baylor vs Air Force 7:30pm – ESPN


World Cup 2022
Argentina’s World Cup team had to abandon an open-top bus parade yesterday as an estimated over 4 million ecstatic fans flooded onto the streets and brought the city to a standstill. Lionel Messi and his teammates were whisked into helicopters to complete the planned celebrations.

The victory made the country world champions for the first time since 1986
MLB News
Carlos Correa, has now agreed on a 12-year, $315 million contract with the New York Mets, backing away from a previous 13-year agreement with the San Francisco Giants. Correa agreed to terms last week with the Giants on a historic 13-year, $350 million contract, tying Bryce Harper for the longest free-agent deal in baseball history.

BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS DECEMBER 20, 2022

MAN ARRESTED FOR STALKING EX-GIRLFRIEND

A South Williamsport man is free on bail after he was accused of stalking an ex-girlfriend on December 7th.  According to the Sun Gazette, city police say 25 year old Brandon Allen Leslie Sweat followed the victim for much of the day, video recording her and calling her repeatedly, causing the victim distress.  Sweat waived his preliminary hearing in district court and posted the 50 thousand dollars bail.

TRUCK DRIVER CHARGED FOR ACCIDENT DURING SNOWSTORM

A truck driver was charged with driving too fast for conditions by State police last Thursday during the severe winter weather.   According to the Standard Journal, 28-year-old Karanjeet Singh of Nobelsville, Indiana , collided with a PennDOT truck and fire truck at the scene of a previous accident along I-80 in Northumberland County where a tractor-trailer hit an embankment just before noon. Traffic was reduced to one lane during the heavy snow, and Tier 1 conditions were implemented on the interstates.  Police say Singh drove over road flares and crashed after he attempted to change lanes in the accident zone.  No one was injured, but the Turbot Township Fire Company special unit vehicle is out of service after the wreck.

PENNSYLVANIA SPECIAL ELECTIONS TO TAKE PLACE IN FEBRUARY

Barring a court order, three special elections for three state House vacancies will take place this February in Pennsylvania after state Rep. Bryan Cutler’s lawsuit sought to stop the elections that were scheduled by the House’s newly sworn-in presiding officer, Rep. Joanna McClinton of Philadelphia.  Democrats had won a one seat majority in the November election, but one member passed away before his name could be removed from the ballot and two other members resigned their positions.  According to the Sun Gazette, Lawyers for the Department of State and acting Secretary of State Leigh Chapman responded to the Lancaster County Republican’s lawsuit, saying that his dispute is with McClinton, who was not named in the suit. There will be a status conference next week.

SALVATION ARMY DISTRIBUTION TODAY IN WILLIAMSPORT

The Salvation Army in Partnership with the US Marine Corps Toys for Tots Program and the community’s Angel Tree Wishes, is distributing food and Christmas assistance today to more than 400 families coming to town for the pick up day.  According to a press release, qualified households are expected at 457 Market Street in Williamsport today from 9am until 4pm.  Traffic could be heavy at times and families are asked to come to the gymnasium accessible from Court Street.  The Salvation Army’s holiday message this year is to Love Beyond Christmas, to help and care for neighbors in need not only during the holidays, but also year-round.

THREE ARRESTED FOR INFANT DEATH

Arrests were made yesterday in Sullivan County and police took three individuals allegedly responsible for the death of an infant last January into custody.  According to North Central PA dot com, Amy and Drew Hoenigke of Mildred, Pa., and Brigette Meckes of North Lawrence, NY were charged for manslaughter, endangering the welfare of children and other offenses.  State Police say that they were called to the Hoenigke’s home January 20th for the death of an infant that they  discovered had died days earlier, allegedly without receiving proper health care since being in distress from birth around January 15th.  This case was referred to the Office of Attorney General from the Sullivan County District Attorney’s Office.

FORMER PENNSYLVANIA DA AQUITTED OF DUI

Former Pennsylvania Attorney General Kathleen Kane was acquitted of DUI yesterday in a one-day bench trial in Lackawanna County Court.  Fifty six year old  Kane, was charged with DUI by Scranton police after she got into a minor car crash March 12, and allegedly failed a field sobriety test. Kane’s lawyer said police body camera footage showed her entering and exiting a vehicle without difficulty and that officers did not detect impairment, but she was seen on surveillance footage drinking alcohol earlier in the night. Kane had resigned as AG after being convicted in 2016 of perjury, obstruction and other counts for leaking secret investigative files to embarrass a rival prosecutor.

PHONE SCAMS ARE BACK FOR THE HOLIDAYS

State police in Milton are warning the public again about the latest phone scams with a local couple most recently losing over seven thousand dollars.  According to north central pa dot com, the elderly couple from Union County fell for it when someone called saying they won the Publishers Clearing House Sweepstakes.  State police say the call was placed on November 12 and the scammers asked the couple to cover costs associated with the win – they sent two checks.   Police remind the public to be extra vigilant about phone scams during the holidays .

FIRST DAY HIKES IN TIOGA AND POTTER COUNTIES

There will a bounty of activities during the winter months at state parks in Tioga and Potter Counties for 2023.  According to North Central PA dot com, the first of these will be First Day Hikes on Sunday, January 1st; Sinnemahoning State Park will host a free, easy 2.5-mile guided hike along fairly level trails @10am in Austin, Potter County, Hills Creek State Park in Tioga County will offer a First Day Hike or Snowshoe & 5K at 12:30pm, and Lyman Run State Park will have an easy, less than 1 mile First Day Hike at 1pm.  Get more details about what you should bring along at dcnr.pa.gov.

SPORTS

NFL Monday Night Football
Packers 24          Rams 12
NFL Thursday Night
 Jacksonville @ Jets on Prime Video at 8:15 PM

Christmas Eve NFL Football 1pm
Buffalo Bills @ Chicago
New Orleans Saints @ Cleveland
Seattle @ Kansas City
NY Giants @ Minnesota
Bengals @ New England Patriots.
Detroit @Carolina
Atlanta @Baltimore

Eagles @ Dallas – 4:25pm on FOX
Las Vegas @ Pittsburgh at 8:15pm on NFL Network

NCAA Football Bowl Games Today
The Famous Idaho Potato Bowl
Eastern Michigan vs San Jose State at 3:30pm – ESPN
RoofClaim.com Boca Raton Bowl
Liberty University vs Toledo at 7:30pm  – ESPN



NBA
76ers 104            Raptors 101
Cavaliers 122     Jazz 99
Hawks 126          Magic 125
Spurs 124           Rockets 105
Timberwolves 116 Mavericks 106
Bucks 128           Pelicans 119
Thunder 123       Trailblazers 121
Suns 130             Lakers 104
Hornets 125        Kings 119

NHL
Bruins 7              Panthers 3
Stars 2                 Blue Jackets 1
Capitals 4            Red Wings 3
Predators 4          Oilers 3
Avalanche 1        Islanders 0  
Canadians 3        Coyotes 2
Sabers 3              Golden Knights 2
Blues 5                Canucks 1

BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS DECEMBER 16, 2022

SNOW CLEANUP BEGINS

The area is cleaning up the heavy wet snow this morning with some schools north of Lycoming County remaining closed today, but most on a two or three hour delay.  Continue to check cancellations and delays at any backyard broadcasting website such as wilq.com or wbzd.com.  On area roadways, lanes of Interstate 80 and Interstate I-180 reopened to restricted speeds according to Penn Dot after multi-vehicle accidents plagued the area yesterday for most of the day.

BRUSH PILE IS CLOSED UNTIL 2023

The City of Williamsport has closed the brush pile for the remainder of the year.  According to a press release by Williamsport Mayor Derek Slaughter, the brush pile is full and will not be ground up until after the New Year.  Grinding of the debris will take place January 3rd and the brush pile should be operational and open again January 9th 2023.  The automatic gate that is accessed with a resident key car is located at 1500 W. Third Street.

K-9 UNIT COMING BACK TO SOUTH WILLIAMSPORT

A police k-9 Unit is coming back to South Williamsport.  According to the Sun Gazette, the South Williamsport Borough Council approved the K-9 and appointed a handler, who will start a 6-week training schedule in January at a K-9 kennel facility in North Carolina.  The dog will be trained as a dual purpose k-9 officer for chase & bit and narcotics detection. Council also approved a new Dodge Durango that will be retrofitted to serve the new K-9 handler.  According to borough officials, adding a K-9 to the unit, can ease a burden currently on the city’s two K-9 units.

EAGLES PLAYERS RECORD A CHRISTMAS ALBUM FOR CHARITY

A legit Christmas album performed by Philadelphia Eagles offensive lineman Lane Johnson, Jason Kelce and Jordan Mailata — with background vocals by other teammates has been released, called “A Philly Special Christmas.” According to the Standard Journal, proceeds go to the Children’s Crisis Treatment Center in Philadelphia. More than $100,000 has already been raised.  Portions of “A Philly Special Christmas” is available to stream now but the full album will be available online December 23rd.  The Eagles play the Dallas Cowboys Dec. 24.

LOCK HAVEN STILL RESTRICTING PARKING TODAY

The City of Lock Haven declared a snow emergency yesterday and has restricted on street parking there until 3pm today.  According to a press release from the city, there will be no on-street parking on E Main from First Street to Henderson, E Church from Bellefonte Ave to N Jay Street,  Bellefonte Avenue and other areas, but free parking will be provided in all city-owned, off-street metered parking lots in downtown today for those who have to park. 

STATE POLICE SEEK PORTA-POTTY VANDAL IN TIOGA COUNTY

Police are looking for a person who vandalized a porta-potty in Tioga County and caused about 2 thousand dollars in damage.  According to North Central PA dot com, a property owner in Clymer Township called police December 12th after they had discovered that a porta potty located at Beachwood place and Ackley Road had been cut into, causing all the liquid in the facility to drain out.  State police in Mansfield are asking anyone with information about the incident to call state police at 570-662-2151.

TOOMEY SAYS FAREWELL TO THE SENATE

U.S. Senator Pat Toomey (R-Pa.) delivered his farewell speech on the Senate floor yesterday, after two decades in Congress. Toomey joined the U.S. Senate from Pennsylvania in 2011. His platform included economic and job growth, restoring fiscal responsibility, and creating stronger, safer communities.  The senator served on the Senate’s Banking, Budget, and Finance committees.  .A graduate of Harvard University, he lives in the Lehigh Valley.

SPORTS

NFL Thursday Night Football
49’ers 21   Seahawks 13
49’ers secure the top spot in the NFC West Division

NFL football Saturday on NFL Network
1pm – Colts vs Vikings  
4:30pm – Ravens vs Browns
8:15 Dolphins vs Bills
NFL Sunday 1pm
Eagles vs. Chicago Bears FOX
Steelers vs. Carolina CBS
Cowboys vs. Jaguars
Chiefs vs Texans
Cincinnati vs Tampa Bay
NFL Sunday Night Football
8:20pm Giants vs Commanders NBC

NHL
Penguins 4          Panthers 2
Flyers 2               Devils 1
Kings 3                Bruins 2
Hurricanes 3       Kraken 2
Ducks 5               Canadians 2
Rangers 3            Maple Leafs 1
Lightning 4         Blue Jackets 1
Stars 2                 Capitals 1
Jets 2                   Predators 1 
Golden Knights 4  Blackhawks 1
Sabers 4              Avalanche 2
Blues 4                Oilers 3

NBA  
Heat 111             Rockets 108
Grizzlies 142      Bucks 101
Jazz 132              Pelicans 129
Suns 111             Clippers 95

2022 World Cup Sunday
Argentina vs France 10am on Fox

BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS DECEMBER 14, 2022

BIG SNOW ON THE WAY

The area is bracing for an accumulation of snow through Friday with the National weather service in State College calling for up to 8 inches of snow in the region expanding northeast over Williamsport.  Travel is expected to be most affected for the Thursday morning and afternoon commutes with the most intense snow seen in the region Thursday afternoon.  PennDOT is preparing for the storm by pre-treating roadways with salt-brine and plan to be out and in place the entire time snow is falling.  High temperatures are only expected to reach 34 degrees Thursday with wind gusts expected up to 25 miles per hour.

HAND COUNT OF TWO 2020 ELECTION CONTESTS APPROVED

Rules for a hand count of the two statewide election contests from 2020 have been approved by the Lycoming County Board of Elections.  According to the Sun Gazette, the director of voter services Forrest Lehman suggested several guidelines to the board about supervision of the process and which contests would be counted.  These were then approved in a split decision 2-1, with Commissioner Rick Mirabito voting against.  The official date for the hand count of the 202 Presidential and Auditor General contests will be between January 9th and 31st. Further discussion of more details will be at the next Lycoming County Election Board meeting.

HUGHESVILLE TO RAISE REAL ESTATE TAX

Noting inflation and higher overall costs for services, the Hughesville borough Council this week approved a real estate tax increase for the first time in 12 years.  According to the Sun Gazette, a .25 tax millage hike to 5.25 mills, will be imposed on property owners, which will add 25 dollars to homeowners’ tax bill for each 100 thousand dollars of assessed property value.  The 2022 budget came in about 62 thousand dollars over the 1.06 million dollar spending plan that was approved by the council.  Tax revenues are expected to bring in just over 440 thousand dollars.

GAME COMMISSION SURVEY RESULTS

According to information gathered by the Pennsylvania Game Commission, hunters have adjusted to the change in traditionally starting deer season to the Saturday after Thanksgiving rather than the Monday after Thanksgiving.  Sixty percent of Pennsylvania deer hunters surveyed by the Game Commission strongly or moderately support opening day of the regular firearms deer season on Saturday, compared to 27% who strongly or moderately oppose it – with many citing tradition as their reason. In the PGC annual report from the 2021 deer season the harvest was larger at 435 thousand deer compared to 375 thousand deer in the 2018-19 season. 

MORE CHARGES FOR WILLIAMSPORT BLOW MOLD THIEF

The South Williamsport woman originally charged December 1st by Old Lycoming Police after they discovered she had allegedly stolen holiday blow mold decorations from neighborhoods around Williamsport has had more charges filed against her.  According to North Central PA dot com, 40 year old  Lane E. Sarcinella was charged yesterday for another theft of decorations worth about 450 dollars from a Jamison Street yard in Linden.  Sarcinella and 34 year old Christopher Fraunfelter, her partner in crime who allegedly also stole decorations earlier this month and faces charges by the Williamsport City Police, were turned in by a person who realized they had bought stolen property and called police leading to an investigation and arrest of the pair.

PENNSYLVANIANS ENCOURAGED TO CARRY NAXALONE

The acting Pennsylvania Physician General spoke yesterday at an event in Hershey, PA to raise awareness on the opioid epidemic, encouraging pharmacies to get prepared to help people suffering from overdoses by allowing access to Naxalone whether a person has a prescription or not.   According to CBS Philadelphia Dr Denise Johnson said all Pennsylvanians are encouraged to carry Naxalone since there no telling when someone you come in contact with may need it.  Any resident of Pennsylvania can get the anti-opioid drug for free online at nextdistro.org.

PENN COLLEGE ANNOUNCES FALL COMMENCEMENT

Pennsylvania College of Technology will hold a commencement ceremony at 11 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 17, at the Community Arts Center for the almost 300 students who have petitioned to graduate after the Fall semester of 2022.  Maci Nicole Ilgen who is a Dean’s List student being awarded a Bachelor of Science in nursing, will be the student speaker.  The college will also present an Alumni Volunteer of the Year Award to Anthony J. Peachey of Construction Specialties in Muncy. Penn College President Michael J. Reed along with board member Steven P. Johnson will confer degrees and certificates upon the graduates.

SPORTS

PIAA District IV
Boys Basketball
Montoursville 66           Shikellamy 54
Line Mountain 70                    Upper Dauphin 46
Central Mountain 77     Mifflinburg 69

Girls Basketball
Mount Carmel 48                    Shikellamy 31
Mifflinburg 46               Central Mountain 38
Athens 52                      North Penn-Liberty 30
South Williamsport 61 Montgomery 3
Hazleton Area 50                    Williamsport 30


Wrestling
Montoursville 53           Hughesville 12
Milton 51                       Mifflinburg 17
Shikellamy 39                Montgomery 30
Jersey Shore 40             Sugar Valley Rural Charter 15
Muncy 39                      South Williamsport 36


NHL
Avalanche 3        Flyers 2
Bruins 4              Islanders 3
Sabers 6              Kings 0
Hurricanes 1       Red Wings 0
Panthers 4           Blue Jackets 0
Stars 4                 Devils 1
Lightning 6         Kraken 2  
Maple Leaf 7      Ducks 0
Oilers 6               Predators 3
Golden Knights 6 Jets 5
Capitols 7           Black Hawks 3
Sharks 3              Coyotes 2



NBA
76ers 123            Kings 103
Bucks 128           Warriors 111
Rockets 111        Suns 97
Jazz 121              Pelicans 100
Celtics 122          Lakers 118

NFL Thursday Night Football
San Francisco @ Seattle 8:15 Prime Video

2022 World Cup Semifinal
Argentina defeated Croatia in a 3-0 victory
France & Morroco have their semifinal today at 2pm eastern

BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS DECEMBER 13, 2022

WOMAN RESCUED FROM MIFFLINBURG FIRE

Firefighters in Mifflingburg who were working the Mifflinburg Hose Company stand at the Christkidl Market were quickly on the scene of a house fire at the 200 block of Walnut street  Friday.  According to the Standard Journal, the fire was called in about 240pm and when crews arrived, the homeowner, Sandra Bowes, was found unresponsive inside the front door.  Bowes was revived using CPR and was ultimately flown to Lehigh Valley Burn Center in Allentown where she is recovering. Fire officials say the fire was started by overloaded receptacles or powerstrips and caused about 200 thousand dollars worth of damage.  Supporting companies, included the William Cameron Engine Company and New Berlin Fire Department.

NEW YORK MAN FOLLOWS WOMAN FROM CASINO TO ROB HER

An Owego, New York man is in custody after police say he followed a Canton woman home from Tioga Downs Casino on November 22nd  with the intention of robbing her.  According to North Central PA dot com, 41 year old Andrew Honnick followed the 75 year old woman to her home, and entered her garage, taking her purse, cash and other items.  Honnick fled the scene, but State Police say his vehicle was identified and he was taken into custody in New York state by the Tioga County Sheriff’s department on a Pennsylvania warrant.  Honnick was charged with four felonies including criminal trespass.  He is in Bradford County Correctional Facility in lieu of 150 thousand dollars bail.

ACCUSED KILLER IN SHAMOKIN HAS TRIAL DATE SET

The man accused of killing a Shamokin woman in February of 2018 before he was shot in a standoff with police at his West Sunbury Street apartment has had a trial date set for next June.  According to the Record Online, 46 year old Jose Colon is accused of criminal homicide after Kassandra Ortiz was allegedly shot by him in Shamokin.  According to the Northumberland County District Attorney, Colon’s homicide and police standoff charges were consolidated.  Two weeks have been set for the trial June 20th beginning with jury selection in the case.

PGC STOCKING FOR PHEASANT SEASON

It’s ring necked pheasant season through December 23rd,   and the Pennsylvania Game Commission reports they have stocked State Game Lands statewide with about 16 thousand birds.  The season continues December 26th through February 27th as well.  In Lycoming County, SGL 252 and openings at Ridge, Pikes Peak, Alvira and Mill Roads will be stocked with pheasants, in Northumberland County birds will be stocked along Route 225 in Dornsife and along Irish Valley Road.  According to the Sun Gazette, in Lycoming County, a total of 690 birds were released in 2021.

ADDED DRUG CHARGES FOR WILLIAMSPORT WOMAN

A Williamsport woman has had new drug charges added to existing ones.  According to the Sun Gazette, court records say 36 year old Ashley Ann Johnson was taken into custody last January after police suspected her of selling fentanyl.  During her arraignment on these charges,  police say Johnson was arranging drug deals on her cell phone.  She had already been jailed on other charges, Johnson was recommitted at Lycoming County Prison in lieu of 50 thousand more dollars bail.

SERIAL SHOPLIFTER ARRESTED IN CENTRE COUNTY

A Centre County woman is in custody for repeated shoplifting, this time at the State College Walmart.  According to North Central PA dot com, Carrie Confer who has had two previous shoplifting convictions in Pennsylvania, was seen on surveillance cameras putting items in her purse and leaving without paying for the items found to be worth about 70 dollars.  Patton Township Police say 45-year-old Confer  was charged with third-degree felony retail theft, and was released on her own recognizance. A preliminary hearing is set for Jan. 4. 

RECOUNT IN ROCKEFELLER TOWNSHIP

Rockefeller Township held a recount of the more than eleven hundred recent ballots and it came out the same as the general election count in November. According to the Daily Item, a county judge granted the recount after petitioners who live in the township requested it after a few issues on Election Day.  Northumberland County Commissioners say they are happy to recount and provide transparency.  In the recount, Republican Mehmet Oz had 873 votes as the leading candidate for U.S. Senator,  Republican Douglas Mastriano led with 813 votes for  Pennsylvania governor,  Republican Representative Dan Meuser and Lynda Schlegel Culver were also the lead candidates in their races.

STROEHMANN BUILDING WILL COME DOWN

City Council voted in a 6-1 vote to raze the former Stroehmann Bakeries building at 339 Washington Boulevard in Williamsport.  According to the Sun Gazette, Councilwoman Liz Miele was the dissenting vote against tearing down the iconic building.  The owner,  Benjamin Stopper, reported that there are no plans for the space at this time, once the debris from the demolition is cleared from the area.  But Stopper said that the part that is Benjie’s will not be removed.

SPORTS

PIAA District IV
Boys Basketball
Muncy 65                      Warrior Run 56
Sullivan County 57        Canton 30
Athens 86                      Williamson 27
Danville 55                    Milton 52
Selinsgrove 49               Hughesville 45 (OT)
Bloomsburg 68              St. John Neumann 55
Girls Basketball
Hughesville 42               Selinsgrove 33
Shamokin 43                 Montoursville 39
Lewisburg 37                 Warrior Run 32
Lake-Lehman 59 Southern Columbia 39

NFL Monday Night Football
Patriots 27 Cardinals 13
NFL Thursday
San Francisco @ Seattle 8:15 on Prime Video

NHL
Penguins 2           Stars 1
Canadians 2         Flames 1
Rangers 4             Devils 3
Senators 3            Ducks 0
Wild 2                  Oilers 1
Blues 1                 Predators 0

NBA
Heat 87                Pacers 82
Nets 112              Wizards 100
Grizzlies 128       Hawks 103
Mavericks 121     Thunder 114
Spurs 112             Cavaliers 111
Trailblazers 133  Timberwolves 112
clippers 113         Celtics 93

Upcoming NCAA Bowl Games Friday December 16th
Hometown Lenders Bahamas Bowl, Miami (OH) vs UAB at 11:30 on ESPN
@Thomas A. Robinson National Stadium, Nassau

2022 World Cup
The semifinal matches are set with Argentina vs. Croatia today and France vs. Morocco on Wednesday.

BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS DECEMBER 12, 2022

FATAL ACCIDENT IN LAMAR TOWNSHIP

There was a fatal accident Thursday that claimed the life of a Mill Hall man and injured another.  According to the Record online, state police say a vehicle crash along Route 64 in Lamar Township caused 20 year old Jayden M. Eisenhower to be ejected from the car.  His passenger, 21 year old, Gavin R. Rafter, also from Mill Hall, survived the accident but  was transported to UPMC Williamsport around  9:53 with serious injuries.  Police said Eisenhower lost control at a high rate of speed in his 2002 Honda Civic northbound on Route 64.  The vehicle occupants were not wearing seatbelts.

FIRST READING OF WILLIAMSPORT BUDGET APPROVED

After a first-reading of the proposed 31 million dollar budget for 2023, Williamsport City Council approved it with a no-tax increase last week in a 6-1 vote.  According to the Sun Gazette, Councilwoman Liz Miele, chairwoman of the finance committee, voted against it to avoid a more drastic millage increase in 2024. Revenues for 2023 in the general fund are 24.8 million with expenditures at 27.6 million.  A second reading of the proposed 2023 budget is set for this Thursday at 7pm.

INVESTIGATION INTO RACIST VIDEOS FOLLWING FOOTBALL WIN

The Pittsburgh Public School District has asked the PIAA to investigate racist  banners and Tik Tok videos made by players after Southern Columbia won the state championship Friday.  There are also questions about a pep rally in Ralpho Township before the game, which showed in videos, signs shown that could be interpreted as racist. The Southern Columbia Area School District released a statement on Facebook decrying any racism or  harassment saying the matter was under investigation.

UNION COUNTY COURTHOUSE REDEDICATED

Northumberland County leaders re-dedicated the 157 year-old County Courthouse in a ceremony Friday following the conclusion of its $4.7 million renovation project. The courthouse at 201 Market Street in Sunbury, first heald court hearings August 6, 1866. According to The Daily Item, the building was officially positioned on the National Register of Historic Places in 1974. According to county leaders, the work continues as the next phase, the illumination of the clock tower – that proposal will head to state for approval in the spring.

WOMAN WHO SLAMMED LITTLE LEAGUE MUSEUM REMAINS JAILED

The Williamsport woman charged with slamming her minivan into the World of Little League Museum in July remains in jail today.  According to Penn Live, the defense for Theresa Robinson Salazar argued against her attempted homicide and aggravated assault charges.  However, a Lycoming County judge determined there was still concern about the safety of the community with Salzar at large and rejected the defense’s argument.  Lycoming County District Judge Gary Whiteman did not set bail for Salazar, who remains incarcerated.

COUPLE CHARGED WITH ENDANGERMENT

A couple in Williamsport faces charges of endangering the welfare of children after being in possession of drugs and drug paraphernalia when officers were called to their apartment last Wednesday.  According to the Sun Gazette, a landlord called police after hearing screaming children in the apartment of 43 year old Lawrence Weaver and 42 year old Dina Kuns at about 5:40pm.  When officers arrived they found marijuana and paraphernalia within reach of a 5 and 2 year old and arrested the two. Weaver and  Kuns were arraigned and each released on 25 thousand dollars bail.

WILLIAMPSORT SETTLES CIVIL SUIT

A Harrisburg man has been awarded 50 thousand dollars in a settlement against a Williamsport Bureau of Police Officer.  According to the Sun Gazette, in the federal civil suit, the Harrisburg man alleged he was harassed and then handcuffed without cause during an incident in July of 2021. Keith Anderson used a mediator to reach the settlement without the defendant, Patrolman Clinton J. Gardner, admitting liability. Charter Oak Fire Insurance Company will pay the $50,000 according to terms of the settlement.

BROADBAND SERVICE POSSIBILITIES IN UNION COUNTY

Union County Commissioners are hoping to get broadband Internet service where it is either non-existent or barely there.  According to the Daily Item, commissioners asking residents to report on their website so they can apply for funding from the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act. According to Commissioner Stacy Richards, billions of dollars are invested in internet service around the country and Union County should also get a share of it.  You can participate and verify your address at unioncountypa.org until January 13th.

SPORTS

NFL Sunday
Eagles 48             Giants  22 (Officially punching the Eagles’ ticket to the postseason)
Cowboys 27         Texans  23
Ravens 16            Steelers 14
Bills 20                Jets 12
Bengals 23         Browns 10
Lions 34               Vikings 23
Chiefs 34             Broncos 28
49’ers  35             Buccaneers 7
Panthers 30          Seahawks 24
Chargers 23         Dolphins 17

NFL Monday Night football
Patriots play the Cardinals in Arizona 8:15 PM on ESPN

NHL
Coyotes 5             Flyers 4 /OT
Avalanche 3         Blues 2 /OT
Blue Jackets 6     Kings 5 /OT
Kracken 5            Panthers 2
Capitals 5            Jets 2
Bruins 3               Golden Knights 1
NBA
76ers 131             Hornets 113
Pelicans 129        Suns 124 /OT
Lakers 124                    Pistons 117
Knicks 112          Kings 99
Magic 111           Raptors 99
Hawks 123                    Bulls 122
Rockets 97                    Bucks 92

NCAA Football News
USC quarterback Caleb Williams was the Heisman Trophy winner from Saturday

Army 20  Navy 17

PI-AA Class 2A State Championship
Southern Columbia defeated Westinghouse  37-22 Friday afternoon to claim a record sixth consecutive state championship at Cumberland Valley HS

BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS DECEMBER 9, 2022

RIVER VALLEY TRANSIT AUTHORITY UNDER INVESTIGATION

An investigation is open in Williamsport about the handling of federal funding within River Valley Transit Authority.  According to the Sun Gazette, Mayor Derek Slaughter said the Federal Transit Administration has hired a contractor to perform a special review to look at grant agreements and examine checks and balances that were or were not in place.  A review team will next meet with Mayor Slaughter and interim General Manager of RVTA, Todd Wright to complete a Financial Management Oversight Special Review.  In a previous audit from 2019, the bus system came out 11 million dollars in debt, with auditors unable to determine what funds were appropriately related to RVTA.

LYCO COMMISSIONERS WILL APPEAL LATEST COURT RULING

The Lycoming County Commissioners announced at their meeting yesterday that they will appeal the latest court ruling that put the functions of payroll, general ledger and accounts receivable back into the hands of the county controller, Krista Rodgers.  According to the Sun Gazette, Commissioners Rick Mirabito and Tony Mussare, continue to seek clarity of the fiscal functions. Commissioner Scott Metzger stated he would prefer to avoid the legal cost. All three commissioners in a statement said that the new appeal only seeks to make sure they are properly handling the financial affairs of the county which is their duty by statute.

MONTOURSVILLE RE-ELECTS PRESIDENT, HIRES SECURITY CAPTAIN

In their annual reorganization meeting this week, the Montoursville Area School District decided on the hire of a security captain, and re-elected the current president and vice president of the school board.  According to the Sun Gazette, Dave Shimmel who represents the borough, is President and Dottie Mathers, who represents Fairfield and Upper Fairfield Townships is Vice President.  New security captain, LaRue Stelene, originally from Nisbet and a former State police trooper, said his military background and supervisory experience makes him a good fit for the job that will pay 56 thousand dollars per year.  Regular school board meetings at Montoursville will continue on the second Tuesdays of the month at 7 p.m. except in December.

DROUGHT LIFTED FOR LYCOMING COUNTY AND 14 OTHERS

At a meeting of the Commonwealth Drought Task Force, The Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection announced that drought watch conditions have been lifted for 15 counties including Lycoming, Northumberland, Montour, Snyder and Union counties that had been watching their water consumption, but the watch still remains for Carbon, Luzerne, Northampton, Potter, and Schuylkill counties.  Drought watch means  consumers are asked to reduce their individual water use by 5-10%, or three to six gallons of water per day.

FORMER MOUNT CARMEL FOOTBALL PLAYERS CHARGED WITH HAZING

The Office of the Attorney General of Pennsylvania has charged nine former area high school football players for a hazing incident that occurred in 2020.  According to North Central PA dot com, court records say in two incidents, football players from Mount Carmel were at the football captain’s house to watch football game footage and burned new players with sticks and fireworks as part of what they said was an informal initiation.  Reed Witowski, Damon Dowkus and a third captain who was a juvenile at the time, have each been charged with hazing, simple assault, and intimidation of a victim.  Six players on the team have also been charged with hazing.

DRIVER FLEES FROM VIOLENT WRECK

Police say a person who was involved in a vehicle accident Wednesday night at the 600 block of Beeber Street in Williamsport, fled the scene and is still at large.  According to the Sun Gazette, police say just after 7pm  the driver of a Jeep Grand Cherokee hit a parked Nissan Sentra and overturned creating a loud noise that caused neighbors to think a nearby building had been hit.  The Jeep hit the parked car with such force it was pushed 35 feet.  Fire and ambulance crews responded to the scene, but no injuries were reported.  If you have information about the driver of the Jeep, call Williamsport police.

MONTOUR COUNTY MAN CHARGED WITH 84 GRAMS OF COCAINE

A Washingtonville man has been arrested for having 84 grams of cocaine in his apartment after a family member in the home called police about it.  According to NorthCentral PA dot com, State Police in Milton were called to an apartment November 10th and shown the bag of the suspected drug sticking out from a bathroom cabinet.  Police say once the substance was tested, it was determined to be cocaine.  An arrest warrant was issued for 45 year old Jeremy Michael Simmons who faces felony possession charges with intent to deliver and a misdemeanor possession charge.  Charges were filed against Simmons December 1st.

NORTH BRANCH NOMINATED FOR RIVER OF THE YEAR

The North Branch of the Susquehanna River is one of four finalists for 2023 Pennsylvania River of the Year recognition.  According to the Middle Susquehanna Riverkeeper, other finalists include the Conestoga River, a tributary in the Lower Susquehanna watershed, and both the Schuylkill River and Perkiomen Creek from the Delaware River basin. Recognition from a River of the Year win for the North Branch would help partnering agencies tackle a number of issues for the waterway, including excessive sedimentation.   One vote is allowed per email between now and 5pm on January 14th .  Learn more about each of the 2023 River of the Year finalists at Pawatersheds.org.

SPORTS

PIAA District 4 Boys Basketball
Northumberland Christian 71       Hughesville 68
Selinsgrove 53                                Bellefonte 49

PIAA 2A Football Championship Today
Southern Columbia vs. Westinghouse
1pm Mechanicsburg, PA


NCAA Football Saturday
Army / Navy game  3 PM on CBS

NFL Thursday Night Football
Rams 17              Raiders 16
NFL this weekend
Eagles vs. Giants, Ravens vs Pittsburgh 1 PM on Sunday

NHL
Lightning 5                   Predators 2
Maple Leafs 5              Kings 0
Panthers 5                     Red Wings 1
Jets 5                             Blues 2
Stars 4                           Senators 3

NBA
Heat 115                       Clippers 110
Spurs 118                     Rockets 109
Nuggets 121                 Trailblazers 120

BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS DECEMBER 9, 2022

RIVER VALLEY TRANSIT AUTHORITY UNDER INVESTIGATION

An investigation is open in Williamsport about the handling of federal funding within River Valley Transit Authority.  According to the Sun Gazette, Mayor Derek Slaughter said the Federal Transit Administration has hired a contractor to perform a special review to look at grant agreements and examine checks and balances that were or were not in place.  A review team will next meet with Mayor Slaughter and interim General Manager of RVTA, Todd Wright to complete a Financial Management Oversight Special Review.  In a previous audit from 2019, the bus system came out 11 million dollars in debt, with auditors unable to determine what funds were appropriately related to RVTA.

LYCO COMMISSIONERS WILL APPEAL LATEST COURT RULING

The Lycoming County Commissioners announced at their meeting yesterday that they will appeal the latest court ruling that put the functions of payroll, general ledger and accounts receivable back into the hands of the county controller, Krista Rodgers.  According to the Sun Gazette, Commissioners Rick Mirabito and Tony Mussare, continue to seek clarity of the fiscal functions. Commissioner Scott Metzger stated he would prefer to avoid the legal cost. All three commissioners in a statement said that the new appeal only seeks to make sure they are properly handling the financial affairs of the county which is their duty by statute.

MONTOURSVILLE RE-ELECTS PRESIDENT, HIRES SECURITY CAPTAIN

In their annual reorganization meeting this week, the Montoursville Area School District decided on the hire of a security captain, and re-elected the current president and vice president of the school board.  According to the Sun Gazette, Dave Shimmel who represents the borough, is President and Dottie Mathers, who represents Fairfield and Upper Fairfield Townships is Vice President.  New security captain, LaRue Stelene, originally from Nisbet and a former State police trooper, said his military background and supervisory experience makes him a good fit for the job that will pay 56 thousand dollars per year.  Regular school board meetings at Montoursville will continue on the second Tuesdays of the month at 7 p.m. except in December.

DROUGHT LIFTED FOR LYCOMING COUNTY AND 14 OTHERS

At a meeting of the Commonwealth Drought Task Force, The Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection announced that drought watch conditions have been lifted for 15 counties including Lycoming, Northumberland, Montour, Snyder and Union counties that had been watching their water consumption, but the watch still remains for Carbon, Luzerne, Northampton, Potter, and Schuylkill counties.  Drought watch means  consumers are asked to reduce their individual water use by 5-10%, or three to six gallons of water per day.

FORMER MOUNT CARMEL FOOTBALL PLAYERS CHARGED WITH HAZING

The Office of the Attorney General of Pennsylvania has charged nine former area high school football players for a hazing incident that occurred in 2020.  According to North Central PA dot com, court records say in two incidents, football players from Mount Carmel were at the football captain’s house to watch football game footage and burned new players with sticks and fireworks as part of what they said was an informal initiation.  Reed Witowski, Damon Dowkus and a third captain who was a juvenile at the time, have each been charged with hazing, simple assault, and intimidation of a victim.  Six players on the team have also been charged with hazing.

DRIVER FLEES FROM VIOLENT WRECK

Police say a person who was involved in a vehicle accident Wednesday night at the 600 block of Beeber Street in Williamsport, fled the scene and is still at large.  According to the Sun Gazette, police say just after 7pm  the driver of a Jeep Grand Cherokee hit a parked Nissan Sentra and overturned creating a loud noise that caused neighbors to think a nearby building had been hit.  The Jeep hit the parked car with such force it was pushed 35 feet.  Fire and ambulance crews responded to the scene, but no injuries were reported.  If you have information about the driver of the Jeep, call Williamsport police.

MONTOUR COUNTY MAN CHARGED WITH 84 GRAMS OF COCAINE

A Washingtonville man has been arrested for having 84 grams of cocaine in his apartment after a family member in the home called police about it.  According to NorthCentral PA dot com, State Police in Milton were called to an apartment November 10th and shown the bag of the suspected drug sticking out from a bathroom cabinet.  Police say once the substance was tested, it was determined to be cocaine.  An arrest warrant was issued for 45 year old Jeremy Michael Simmons who faces felony possession charges with intent to deliver and a misdemeanor possession charge.  Charges were filed against Simmons December 1st.

NORTH BRANCH NOMINATED FOR RIVER OF THE YEAR

The North Branch of the Susquehanna River is one of four finalists for 2023 Pennsylvania River of the Year recognition.  According to the Middle Susquehanna Riverkeeper, other finalists include the Conestoga River, a tributary in the Lower Susquehanna watershed, and both the Schuylkill River and Perkiomen Creek from the Delaware River basin. Recognition from a River of the Year win for the North Branch would help partnering agencies tackle a number of issues for the waterway, including excessive sedimentation.   One vote is allowed per email between now and 5pm on January 14th .  Learn more about each of the 2023 River of the Year finalists at Pawatersheds.org.

SPORTS

PIAA District 4 Boys Basketball
Northumberland Christian 71       Hughesville 68
Selinsgrove 53                                Bellefonte 49

PIAA 2A Football Championship Today
Southern Columbia vs. Westinghouse
1pm Mechanicsburg, PA


NCAA Football Saturday
Army / Navy game  3 PM on CBS

NFL Thursday Night Football
Rams 17              Raiders 16
NFL this weekend
Eagles vs. Giants, Ravens vs Pittsburgh 1 PM on Sunday

NHL
Lightning 5                   Predators 2
Maple Leafs 5              Kings 0
Panthers 5                     Red Wings 1
Jets 5                             Blues 2
Stars 4                           Senators 3

NBA
Heat 115                       Clippers 110
Spurs 118                     Rockets 109
Nuggets 121                 Trailblazers 120

BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS DECEMBER 7, 2022

ACCIDENT CLOSES ROUTE 220

Route 220 North between the Main Street exit of Jersey Shore and Route 287 was closed this morning due to a motor vehicle accident in the area but has since reopened.  According to PennDOT, the detour using Route 44 in Jersey Shore is no longer necessary but you may still see busy traffic there  throughout this hour.  Police have not released details about the crash itself, only that foggy conditions in the area may have contributed to the accident.

ONE PERSON DIES FROM ACCIDENT THAT SHUT DOWN I-180

One person involved in the accident November 29th on I-180 involving nine passengers in a van and a tractor trailer, has passed away from her injuries.  According to a press release by the Lycoming County Coroner, 66 year old Mary Jane Spoonire of Hagerstown MD, was the passenger in a van driven by her husband when he exited the emergency turnaround on I-180 into the eastbound lane when the van was struck by a truck traveling eastbound.  The accident shut down the Montoursville section of I-180 for over 5 hours.  Spoonire died Saturday evening, December 3, due to multiple blunt force injuries. All other occupants most of whom were Amish, were transported to local hospitals for treatment.

ARSON CHARGE FOR COAL TOWNSHIP MAN

Coal Township police say a local man committed arson in a basement of a Spruce Street home after assaulting his girlfriend last July.  According to the Daily Item, 37 year old Benjamin Rodriguez, waived his preliminary hearing in Shamokin District court yesterday. Coal Township Police have charged Rodriquez with two felony counts of arson, a felony aggravated assault and a felony of risking a catastrophe.  According to police, they allege that they retrieved video surveillance footage of the day of the incident.

CITY AND LYCOMING COLLEGE MAY UPGRADE BRANDON PARK

During the Williamsport City Council Public Works Committee meeting Tuesday, representatives from Lycoming College proposed a new baseball facility at Brandon Park.  According to the Sun Gazette, the two parties talked of a partnership between the college and the city in an effort to potentially improve the quality of the city’s recreational facilities as well as fulfill the needs of the athletic programs at the college.  No decisions were made in the meeting this week, but the committee appeared to be willing to continue the discussion.

FLICK HEADQUARTERS LOCATION OPENING IN JANUARY

Jamie Flick, State Representative-elect and Republican from South Williamsport, is getting ready for his term and should be in a new Williamsport location by January 3rd – the day he is inaugurated.  According to the Sun Gazette, Flick’s district office is being renovated in Water Tower Square, 1000 Commerce Park Drive, which will have handicapped accessible parking available.  In a press release, Flick said he is using a temporary phone number (570-337-7638) until the new office location opens.  You can email him at [email protected].

HUGHESVILLE WOMAN SKIPS PRELIMINARY HEARING

A bench warrant has been issued for Hughesville woman for failing to appear in court last month for shoplifting charges.  According to Montoursville police, 42 year old Teresa Rine allegedly stole over 160 dollars-worth of merchandise from the Montoursville Walmart, and did not appear for her preliminary hearing for the misdemeanor charges.  The warrant was filed in Lycoming County court.

MAN ARRESTED FOR BREAKING INTO HUNTING CABINS

Mansfield State Police have arrested a man from New York state for breaking into hunting cabinsin the Osceola areaNovember 28th .  According to North Central PA dot com, 33 year old Nathan Sherman of Addison was caught in the act, after the 73 year-old owner spotted Sherman attempting the break-in and called police.  State Trooper Reuben Donovan said Sherman was charged with criminal trespass.

JUDGE UPHOLDS CONSECUTIVE SENTENCES

A Philadelphia man accused of dealing drugs will not have his sentence modified after the Pennsylvania Superior Court denied his appeal last week.  According to the Daily Item, after a lengthy investigation by police, 48 year old Mikail Handy was arrested, along with a co-defendant, for felony counts of delivery of cocaine and criminal use of a communication device for which Handy plead guilty in July of 2020 in Clinton County Court.   Handy called his sentencing excessive, and requested in February 2022 that the sentences for his crimes be served concurrently.  Clinton County President Judge, Craig P Miller said Hand should have an extended period of incarceration and upheld his two seven year consecutive sentences.

FREE DECEMBER STAR GAZING PROGRAMS IN COUDERSPORT

There are free programs about meteors and star-gazing being offered at Cherry Springs State Park this month.  According to the Sun Gazette, two of the first programs are virtual and the third is in-person at the park at 4639 Cherry Springs Road in Coudersport.  All programs are free starting with “Meteors Demystified” on December 13th , and another virtual stargazing program on December 20th.  The final program is an in-person star gazing event on New Year’s Eve at 6:30pm .  Register for the virtual programs at events.dcnr.pa.gov  – no registration required for the new Year’s Eve program.

SPORTS

PIAA District 4 Basketball
Boys Basketball
Shikellamy 54                         Mifflin County 52
Mifflinburg 54                         Milton 52 (OT)
Muncy 59                                South Williamsport 48
Crestwood 57                          Shamokin 44
Scranton Prep 55           Williamsport 53

Girls Basketball
Shamokin 46                 Shikellamy 24
Wellsboro 45                 North Penn-Mansfield 31
Bloomsburg 58              Montoursville 22
South Williamsport 44 Hughesville 29
Mount Carmel 55 Danville 32

Wrestling  
Wellsboro 51                 Sayre 12
Montgomery 47             South Williamsport 21


NBA
Cavaliers 116               Lakers 102
Pistons 116                  Heat 96
Mavericks 116             Nuggets 115
NHL
Devils 3               Blackhawks 0
Kings 5                Senators 2
Penguins 4          Blue Jackets 1
Red Wings 4       Lightning 2
Blues 7                Islanders 4
Jets 5                   Panthers 2
Maple Leafs 4     Stars 0
Ducks 4               Hurricanes 3
Canadians 4        Kraken 2

NFL Thursday night football tomorrow
Las Vegas goes to Los Angeles to play the Rams at 8:15 on Prime Video
Other NFL matchups 1pm Sunday ….
Baltimore is @ Pittsburgh and the Eagles play the Giants

BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS DECEMBER 6, 2022

LOYALSOCK MIDDLE STUDENT THREATENS SCHOOL

Police are reporting that a Loyalsock Township middle school student allegedly threatened to shoot up the school and is facing criminal charges.  According to North Central PA dot com, a statement was issued by Superintendent Jerry McLaughlin that several students had reported that a student was saying they would bring a gun to school today.  McLaughlin said the threat is no longer a problem after the state police were contacted and took action Monday night, removing the student from the school community.  Security will be increased at the school this week according to authorities, but they are confident there is no continuing threat to students or staff.  Charges are pending for the suspect. 

CANADIAN WOMAN INJURED IN ROUTE 15 CRASH

Trout Run firefighters and other emergency personnel responded to a crash yesterday morning around 10:30am.  According to the Sun Gazette, police say a woman from Ontario Canada was driving a Ford Focus and went off the Route 15 for an unknown reason about two miles south of the Trout Run Exit.  State Police say the unidentified woman struck the embankment and overturned in her vehicle.  She was transported by ambulance to UPMC Williamsport where there has not been a report about her condition today.

JUDGE: LYCO COMMISSIONERS USURPED AUTHORITY

The Lycoming County Commissioners may decide to appeal a second ruling by a visiting Potter County Senior Judge, after he found for a second time that the commissioners overstepped authority by transferring Office of Budget and Finance functions of the elected controller into their office when they were dissatisfied with the work.  According to Penn Live, Judge John B. Leete ruled that the commissioners’ actions were improper and in derogation of various provisions of the County Code.  Pending a potential appeal, the court ruled that the commissioners must return all ledgers, accounts, payroll and related documents along with the employees to Krista Rogers, the county’s controller, whose legal fees will also be provided by the county.

BIRDERS ASKED TO COUNT THIS WINTER

Wellsboro birders are looking for help from you this year.  According to the Sun Gazette, the Tiadaghton Audubon Society wants citizens help with two Christmas Bird Counts this winter.  The Cowanesque Circle bird count on Saturday, Dec. 17, and the Wellsboro-Mansfield Circle bird count on Sunday, January 1.  You can register to count birds on your property or go on the road and count no later than Monday, December 12, for the December 17th Count and by Monday, December 26, for the January 1st Count.  Email for information; [email protected] or call 570-948-9052.

AMBULANCE CREW CALLS POLICE AFTER PATIENT BROKE HIS RESTRAINTS

A patient broke through restraints and became aggressive with emergency personnel last week, forcing the ambulance crew to pull over and call police.  According to North Central PA dot com, a relative called 911 after 55 year old Thomas Paul Charmley of Eagles Mere was feared to have had a stroke.  Police said Charmley was initially calm inside the ambulance but became more aggressive before transport.  He has been charged with first-degree felony aggravated assault, simple assault, harassment, and disorderly conduct and is in the Columbia County Prison in lieu of 25 thousand dollars monetary bail.

MAN ARRESTED FOR TRESPASSING IN GROCERY STORE

A man who broke into a local grocery store in August has been charged in an affidavit this week by Old Lycoming Township Police.  According to the Sun Gazette, Brian Richard Jacobs allegedly pried open the automatic doors of the Weis on Lycoming Creek Road before the store opened after 4:30am, going to the employee lounge, attempting to take a jacket and then standing in the aisles before employees called 911.  Police say Jacobs of Cogan Station may have been under the influence was taken to UPMC Williamsport for evaluation.  Jacobs charges included felony trespassing, attempted theft, and public drunkenness..  He was released on 15 thousand dollars bail.

LIMITED TIME MILKSHAKE FLAVOR FEATURED FOR FARM SHOW

The farm show is coming again January 7th, and the famous PA Dairymen milkshakes may be on your mind, but according to Penn Live, there is a new flavor coming to the 2023 event to think about.  A new limited edition orange cream flavor milkshake will be included with the regular vanilla and chocolate flavors.  The Pennsylvania Dairymen’s Association are also offering a free milkshake to the first 50 people in line at the show this year. The 2023 Farm Show runs January 7-14 at the Pennsylvania Farm Show Complex & Expo Center in Harrisburg.

CAPITOL CHRISTMAS TREE LIGHTING IN PA

Gov. Tom Wolf and First Lady Frances Wolf held the annual Christmas tree lighting ceremony last night at the state Capitol.  The Central Dauphin High School Choir performed during the ceremony to celebrate the lighting of the 20-foot-tall tree from Carbon County. The tree is decorated with more than 900 LED lights and more than 700 handmade ornaments.  The ornaments were donated by students and seniors throughout the commonwealth coordinated by Pre-K for PA and the Department of Aging. This will be the last tree lighting overseen by Gov. Wolf and First Lady Frances Wolf, as Governor-elect Josh Shapiro is set to take office.

SPORTS

NFL Monday Night Football
Buccaneers 17              Saints 16

NHL
Golden Knights 4        Bruins 3
Rangers 6                      Blues 4
Flyers 5                         Avalanche 3
Capitals 3                     Oilers 2
Flames 3                       Coyotes 2  
Canucks 7                     Canadiens 6

NBA
Clippers 119       Hornets 117
Bucks 109           Magic 102
Thunder 121       Hawks 114
Celtics 116          Raptors 110
Rockets 132        76ers 123
Grizzlies 101      Heat 93
Mavericks 130   Suns 111
Pacers 112          Warriors 104


NCAA Football
Heisman Trophy finalists have been announced… all are quarterbacks … Stetson Bennett of Georgia, Max Duggan of TCU, Ohio State’s C.J. Stroud and Caleb Williams of USC.  The winner will be announced this Saturday night at 8pm on ESPN

NCAA Basketball News
Bucknell University has announced that Jay Wright ’83 — a former CBS Sports college basketball analyst and Villanova basketball coach who took the team to two NCAA championships and four Final Fours — will deliver the keynote address at Bucknell University’s 173rd Commencement on Sunday, May 14, 2023.  Wright was a member of the Bucknell men’s basketball team before graduating in 1983 with degrees in economics and sociology. He was inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 2021.


MLB NEWS
 Shortstop Trea Turner and the Philadelphia Phillies agreed on an 11-year, $300 million contract Monday. The deal, which includes a full no-trade clause and no deferred money, ties Turner to the Phillies through the 2033 season and is the 10th $300 million-plus contract in baseball history.

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