BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS JULY 1, 2022

FIRE DESTROYS MONTGOMERY HOME

A devastating multi-alarm fire in Montgomery destroyed a home yesterday about 2pm and killed the family’s dogs, but no humans were injured.  According to the Sun Gazette, Eli Hessler and his daughter who is 14, escaped the fire after unsuccessfully attempting to rescue the animals at the home on First and Broad Streets.  Hessler’s wife Steph and two other children were not home at the time. Montgomery firefighters were close to the fire at their carnival grounds and responded right away however,  water pressure was an issue from the hydrants in the community, so nine other companies were dispatched to the scene to assist with more tankers of water.  Fire officials say the sides of home collapsed after 20 minutes and it was under control about 3pm.  Damage was estimated at about 150 thousand dollars.

SLOW TRAFFIC ON ROUTE 147 AGAIN TODAY

The soil remediation project that began yesterday along Route 147 in West Chillisquaque Township will cause delays again today as Penn DOT says they’ve extended the work through Friday.  There were significant delays yesterday throughout the day north and southbound on Route 147 with a flagger on the scene taking traffic down to one lane before Ridge Road.  The crews will work on the southbound side where an accident had occurred earlier this year.  Work is scheduled to be complete by 6pm tonight.

ROW HOME FIRE IN NORTHUMBERLAND

Several row homes in Northumberland County were damaged by fire early Thursday.  According to the Daily item, a fire broke out in the homes along East 7th Street in Mount Carmel about 7am.  The Northumberland County Firewire reported that everyone who was a resident in the homes escaped safely, but there is no word at this time on what caused the blaze.  Officials should be determining that today.

PA LEGISLATURE APPROVES KEY ISSUES

Five important measures were approved this week in the Pennsylvania House and Senate, with the Republican majority mostly carrying the approval.  According to the Daily Item, there were approvals for designating athletics by biological sex and one expanding access for poll watchers, each were sent to the Governor for approval.  Other bills seek to prohibit classroom instruction on gender identity and sexual orientation from pre-kindergarten through fifth grade and they went to the house for consideration. A fifth resolution called for a Select Committee investigation into Philadelphia District Attorney Larry Krasner who has been accused of dereliction of duty with respect to gun crime in the state’s largest city.

MAN DIES FROM TRACTOR ACCIDENT

A man from Beaver springs who was cutting brush in a field in Snyder County was killed Wednesday morning and police are unsure of exactly what happened.  According to the Daily Item, there were no witnesses when the man who was using a tractor in a field near 1662 Middle creek road was mortally injured; either from falling from the tractor and being struck, or from a medical incident. The Snyder County Coroner has not released the identity of the victim, pending family notification.  The tractor was located in another field from where the man’s body was discovered.

PA BUDGET IS BEHIND SCHEDULE

Governor Wolf and the Republican controlled legislature have been called weekend voting sessions in order to get a working $42 million budget plan signed before the 4th of July.  According to the Philadelphia Inquirer,  talks have been stalled due to different priorities among the Governor and Republican leaders and exact details on the state’s multibillion-dollar spending plan, along with hundreds of pages of accompanying legislation, were still being debated as of Thursday’s budget deadline – even with a multi-billion dollar surplus in the bank. Some of the details of the budget have not been disclosed .

PENNDOT HOSTS A RIBBON CUTTING AT CSVT BRIDGE

The ribbon cutting for state dignitaries was held this week for the new CSVT bridge and the its’ northern section and the ceremonial groundbreaking for the southern section also occurred for work to be completed in 2027. According to the Daily Item, Eric High, the PennDOT District 3 Executive for Engineering hosted republican senator John Gordner from Berwick and US Senator Bob Casey who said the bipartisan infrastructure bill passed last November also played a big role in the completion of both sections of CSVT. The bridge and new highway is slated to open to traffic after the 4th of July.

EVANGELICAL CLOSES ON SUSQUEHANNA MALL PROPERTY

Evangelical Hospital has purchased the Susquehanna Valley Mall property at 21 Susquehanna Valley Mall Drive.  According to North Central PA dot com, the property right now houses SUN Orthopedics of Selinsgrove and their Imaging Center, Evangelical’s Physical Therapy practice, Family Practice facilities and Corbin Audiology.  According to hospital administrators, Corbin will move to a new location this month and other imaging and orthopedic practices will relocate to the mall in 2023. Negotiations were announced last March and the closing on the property was yesterday.

SPORTS

MLB
Guardians 5        Twins 3
Phillies 14           Braves 4
Astros 2               Yankees 1
Pirates 8              Brewers 7
Cubs 15               Reds 7


MLB Draft League
Williamsport Crosscutters 8 West Virginia Black Bears 5
Williamsport gets the series victory. 
MLB Draft League tonight The Cutters host the Mahoning Valley Scrappers in their next 3-game series – 1st pitch tonight @6:35
 (Saturday night’s Red, White and Boom features fireworks after the game –  at Historic Bowman Field. )

Big Ten Football
In a surprising and seismic shift in college athletics, the Big Ten has voted to add Southern California and UCLA as conference members beginning in 2024. The expansion to 16 teams will make the Big Ten the first conference to stretch from the Atlantic to the Pacific. The announcement comes almost a year after Oklahoma and Texas formally accepted invitations to join the Southeastern Conference in July 2025.

NBA Draft

In NBA Free Agency, Karl Anthony Towns stays in Minnesota with a 224 million dollar, 4 year supermax deal…Nikola (knee COLA) Jokic (JOKE itch) 5 years, 270 million with the Denver Nuggets and the Philadelphia 76ers sign former Miami Heat forward PJ Tucker for 3 years and 33 million dollars. 

BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS JUNE 30, 2022

WILLIAMSPORT NEEDS NEW FINANCE DIRECTOR

Members of City Council have received notice that Joseph Pawlak, Williamsport’s Interim Finance Director will no longer be working for the city, and that the critical position needs to be filled quickly.  According to the Sun Gazette, there is no information given about whether Pawlak was let go or took another position elsewhere.  City officials said that as an at-will employee, Pawlak is not able to appeal or have a hearing on the matter. He was first brought on in October 2005 with Mayor Mary Wolf, later with Mayor Campana and now with Mayor Slaughter since 2020.  Pawlak handled payroll, cut checks and would provide information to council and finance committees.

ELDERLY WOMAN WHO CRASHED IN PARKING GARAGE DIES

The 90 year old woman from Danville who was seriously injured Monday after hitting several vehicles in a parking garage has died, According the Montour County Coroner’s office.   Edith Barnhart crashed into multiple vehicles in her Toyota Camry Monday around 1pm while she was at a Geisinger outpatient clinic parking garage.  Barnhart’s initial accident began a chain reaction of accidents that caused her serious injury.  She was transported by ambulance to Geisinger but passed away overnight Tuesday. 

WILLIAMSPORT CONTRACT CHARGED WITH FELONIES

A Lycoming County Contractor has been charged by the Pennsylvania Attorney General for taking over 86 thousand dollars from clients and never delivering the work.  According to North Central PA dot com, Michael Bloom of Williamsport will face 37 felonies including home improvement fraud and theft by deception. If you or anyone you know has been defrauded by Bloom, file a complaint online with the Bureau of Consumer protection or email scams@attorneygeneral dot gov, or call 800-441-2555.

LANE CLOSURE TO CAUSE SLOWDOWNS

There will be a lane closure in West Chillisquaque Township in Northumberland County today so that PennDOT crews can complete a soil remediation project following a previous crash.  According to PennDOT, a contractor will have Route 147 southbound down to one lane just before the Ridge Road intersection.  The right travel lane and shoulder will have flaggers alternating lanes between 7am and 6pm.

POLICE INVESTIGATE SHOTS FIRED AT A VEHICLE

State Police in Selinsgrove are investigating reports of shots fired at a vehicle on June 24th while it was traveling on Route 35 in Snyder County.  According to North Central PA dot com, the driver of a Toyota Yaris says their vehicle was struck by small round object from a bb or pellet gun.  Police say it was between 9:30 and 10:30pm last Friday.  If anyone has information that can assist in the investigation, call State Police in Selinsgrove.

TWO WOMEN TO BE CHARGED WITH HARASSMENT

Charges of  harassment are pending after two women threw water bottles and slushies at each other during a concert at a winery in Rockefeller Township June 24th.  According to State police in Stonington, a child spilled shaved ice on the shoulder of the woman sitting right in front of him.  This accident prompted the woman to turn and throw a water bottle at the woman who was with the child.  That woman then threw a slushy on her.  Police continue to investigate the Northumberland County incident, and say they will file harassment charges.

LOCAL JUDGE TO DECIDE ON ALLOWING A REVEAL OF VOTER RECORDS

Lebanon PA private investigator may get a ruling from a judge in Lycoming County for a chance to examine voter-by-voter records from the 2020 elections, even though the state  Office of Open Records said the records are confidential and previously denied her request.  Heather Honey of Haystack Investigations is still seeking a digital copy of the Lycoming County “cast vote record”, but now county officials say what she is looking for could disclose the identity of voters.  Governor Tom Wolf asked acting Secretary of State Leigh Chapman to intervene, saying in court earlier this month that records Honey seeks from many counties in Pennsylvania, are produced before tabulation and counting of votes has occurred, so it isn’t a really digital tally that Honey would get.  She would get the unprocessed data and Chapman says that is problematic.

FORMER LEWISBURG MAYOR HONORED

A former Lewisburg Mayor has been honored with a Bronze star that is displayed now on Market Street after a ceremony Tuesday.  According to media outlets, Judy Wagner was honored as athank you for her work as the mayor of Lewisburg for 20 years. Wagner retired in December.  She was also a teacher and guidance counselor in the Lewisburg Area School District for 38 years and now serves on the Regional Police Commission and the Lewisburg Shade Tree Commission.

SPORTS

MLB
Yankees 5           A’s 3
Pirates 8              Nationals 7
Astros 2               Mets 0
Mariners 9          Orioles 3
Braves 4              Phillies 1
Red Sox 6           Blue Jays 5
Guardians 7        Twins 6
Cubs 8                 Reds 3

MLB Draft League
Williamsport Crosscutters 5 West Virginia Black Bears 4
 (1-1) Game 3 tonight -Muncy Bank Ballpark, 1st Pitch @6:35pm

NBA
Philadelphia 76ers star James Harden has declined his $47.3 million option and will become a free agent, according to ESPN.  Harden could negotiate a new deal with Philly that would deliver the Sixers roster-building flexibility in free agency — including use of the full $10.5 million exception.  Teams may begin negotiating deals with free agents starting at 6pm tonight. However, those players cannot officially sign until 12:01 p.m. Eastern on July 6.

NCAA Football
The 21 thousand seat student sections at Penn State’s Beaver stadium sold out in minutes again this year as reported by Penn Live, as each section is sold in waves to each incoming class – but there are still seats available around the stadium for the seven home games this year.  First game is at Beaver Stadium on Sept. 10 against Ohio. The annual Whiteout game is Oct. 22 against Minnesota, and Ohio State is here Oct. 29.

BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS JUNE 29, 2022

SHEETZ LOWERS PRICES FOR SOME GAS

A local convenience store lowered the price for Unleaded 88 and E85 gasoline Monday to 3.99, a gallon trying to ease the pain at the pump for the upcoming holiday weekend.  According to North Central PA dot com Sheetz says their Unleaded 88 can be used in vehicles made in 2001 or newer, including light-duty trucks, SUVs and flex fuel vehicles. E85 contains more ethanol and is designed specifically for flexible fuel vehicles not standard vehicles.  Customers should check their owner’s manual.  The average price for a gallon of regular gas in Pennsylvania today is $4.95.

SHAMOKIN MAN CHARGED WITH STRANGULATION

A Shamokin man is in jail today after he was accused of head butting and strangling a person outside a pizza shop near S. Market Street. According to North Central PA dot com,  police arrested 44 year old Bobby Antonio Colon, following an investigation into an altercation in which witnesses said he fought with the victim outside the pizza place after being asked to leave a nearby residence June 20th.  Police identified Colon, and then charged him with felony strangulation, simple assault, and harassment.  He has a preliminary hearing in Northumberland County Court on July 5th.

BILL SHOULD END SNAP BENEFITS FOR THE DECEASED

A bill in the Pennsylvania House has been proposed that would help ensure that SNAP food stamp benefits would not be sent to previous recipients who may have died.    According to a legislative memo written by a Republican senator from Berks and Schuylkill counties, after an investigation, they found that DHS policy allowed public assistance benefits to be paid to recipients up to 12 months after death.  Officials found  2,324 deceased recipient cardholders’ accounts that were actively being recharged adding up to $700,000 in benefits for deceased beneficiaries.  Senate Bill 1124 would require the Department of Human Services to run a monthly check of death certificates with the Bureau of Vital Statistics.  No state audit of the EBT program has been conducted since 2016. 

BETTER LYME DISEASE TREATMENT PROPOSED IN PA

There could be better coverage for the treatment of Lyme disease in Pennsylvania after a bill introduced in the Senate has passed making it easier for patients to receive treatment for their long-term symptoms of Lyme Disease. Senate Bill 1188 improves diagnostic techniques and increases medical coverage for treatments for lyme.  According to North Central PA dot com, East Stroudsburg University reports there is Lyme detected in  32 percent of deer ticks tested in the state.  In 2018, the DOH estimated 119,000 cases in the state, 35 percent of which were expected to develop long-term symptoms. The bill now goes to the House for consideration.

SENIOR SUFFERS INJURIES AFTER CRASH IN PARKING GARAGE

A 90 year old woman from Danville  was seriously injured Monday after hitting several vehicles in a parking garage.  According to the Daily Item, police say Edith Barnhart pulled her Toyota Camry into a parking spot at the Geisinger Woodbine Outpatient Clinic about 1pm and hit the wall in front of her. She then backed out of the spot and hit a 30 year old woman from Danville driving a Ford Explorer.  After doing that damage, Barnhart accelerated forward hitting a parked Chevy S10 pickup owned by a Danville man.  After that collision, the woman accelerated again and struck another wall head-on.  She was transported by ambulance to Geisinger with critical injuries.  The other people in the cars struck were not injured, but their vehicle needed to be towed from the scene.  East End Fire Company assisted at the scene.

PA MINIMUM WAGE COULD RISE TO $15 AN HOUR BY 2028

Governor Wolf wants a minimum wage increase for Pennsylvanians and a deadline to decide on the budget is coming up in the PA Legislature Thursday of this week. According to North Central PA dot com, a brief from the Keystone Research Center estimated 1.46 million workers would benefit from the increase to $15 dollars an hour by 2028; this mostly for workers in health care, retail, social services and more. The increase could amount to about a $3,800 raise each year.

INTERIM SUPERINTENDENT AT DANVILLE

In a board meeting Monday night, the Danville Area School District appointed an acting superintendent until they can make a new hire.  According to media outlets, the Danville board approved former Central Columbia School District Superintendent Henry Mathias for now.  He will be paid 700 dollars per day and work just 4 days per week.   Current Danville Superintendent Dr. Rikki Boyle has announced she will be taking a new position at Bloomsburg University.  The board also approved Brian Albertson as their new full-time athletic director by a 6-3 vote.   Albertson is the son of former Danville Area athletic director and baseball coach Harold Albertson.

CVST RIVER BRIDGE DUE TO OPEN IN JULY

After PennDOT hosted the well-attended gathering at the new CVST River bridge for walkers and bikers last weekend, they have now announced that the bridge is scheduled to open soon to traffic.  Crews will need a couple days for line painting July 6th through the 9th and they will hold a private ribbon cutting for dignitaries. There will be more information listed about the actual events surrounding the bridge opening at penndot.pa.gov.

SPORTS

MLB
          Game 1 Guardians 3    Twins 2
          Game 2  Twins 6          Guardians 0
Braves 5              Phillies 3
Yankees 2           A’s 1
Nationals 3         Pirates 1
Blue Jays 6         Red Sox 5
Astros 9               Mets 1
Mariners 2          Orioles 0
Reds 5                 Cubs 3

MLB Draft League
West Virginia Black Bears 9 Williamsport Crosscutters 3
Game 2/3 tonight at Muncy Bank Ballpark 6:35 – 1st Pitch

Local Soccer
North Union United -Lewisburg

 NUU currently has three teams which will be competing in national tournaments in early July. The NUU U19 boys, NUU 06F (U16) girls and NUU 08F Valor (U14) girls are all headed to the national tournament.


Tennis
Serena Williams has exited Wimbledon early after playing her first competitive singles match in just over a year losing 7-5, 1-6, 7-6, to Harmony Tan. The match had a 10 point third-set tiebreak. There is speculation as to whether Williams, a 23 time grand slam title Champion, is considering retirement.

NBA
In 2018, the LA Clippers partnered with the Los Angeles Parks Foundation and pledged to renovate all LA Area public basketball courts.  The vow was fulfilled yesterday when the 350th court was complete with a ribbon cutting at the Michelle and Barrack Obama Sports Center in Los Angeles.  The 10 million dollar donation from Clippers owner Steve Ballmer was the largest donation ever to the City of Los Angeles’ parks system.

BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS JUNE 28, 2022

LYCO RESIDENTS INVOLVED IN JANUARY 6TH PLEAD GUILTY

A South Williamsport man and a Williamsport woman entered guilty pleas in a Washington DC court yesterday for their role in the January 6th insurrection of the US Capitol.  According to the Sun Gazette, 47 year old Mark Aungst and 51 year old Tammy Bronsburg will face sentencing on misdemeanors of demonstrating in a restricted building on September 27th, which could bring 6 months of jailtime or probation plus a fine and restitution.  Court records show the two traveled by bus to Washington for former President Trump’s stop the steal rally and marched to the Capitol with others.

EX GIRLFRIEND CHARGED WITH HARASSMENT

Harassment charges have been filed against a 23 year old woman from Catawissa who may have made over 43 calls to her ex in a 22 hour period during a time when police were investigating a theft at his home.  According to police, Trey Harkins reported a break in to his  home alleging that ON June 19th his ex, Kaitlin McKenna, had come to the Pine Street house where they used to live together; assaulting him and stealing money. Police say the harassing phone calls began after Harkins reported the theft.  McKenna was charged with harassment, but no charges have been filed as of yet in the break-in.

ROAD WORK IN MUNCY THIS WEEK

Penn DOT has updated information about road work that continues this week in Muncy.  According to a press release, the intersection of Water and Washington streets will be closed so that Susquehanna Valley Construction Corporation can install new drainage, inlets, and ADA ramps.  There will be long term detours in Muncy on Route 405 north and southbound  as well as posted detours for truck traffic heading between I-180 and Montgomery which will take exit 5 for Turbotville, using 54 and 405 into Montgomery.  All work is weather permitting.

FUTURE MASTER GOLFER LIVES IN SOUTH WILLIAMSPORT

Logan McGinn, a ten year-old golfer from South Williamsport, won the 73rd Annual Future Masters Tournament that wrapped up in Dothan, Alabama last Saturday.  According to the Sun Gazette, Logan shot a 67 on the 10-under course, one stroke under the course record.  Logan has become an accomplished golfer with previous wins in the Colonial Williamsburg Classic and Copperhead Classic, runner-up in the Holiday Classic, as well as taking third at the Jekyll Island Cup. Logan is in Palm Beach Gardens Florida for the Under Armor Summer Nationals at PGA National this week, before he comes back home to compete in Little League all-stars in Williamsport this summer.

FORMER PSU STUDENT ADMITS TO VANDALISM

A former Penn State student faces four felony charges after she admitted to vandalizing the Nittany Lion Shrine on May 7th of this year.  According to North Central PA dot com, the Daily Collegian reported 23 year old Julia Cipparulo of New Jersey said she broke the ear off the lion and splashed paint on the shrine in response to the school’s cover up of abuses, hazing and student deaths.  Cipparulo will have her preliminary hearing on charges of institutional vandalism, criminal mischief, theft, and receiving stolen property this week.

CONTRACTOR FACES CRIMINAL CHARGES

A local contractor is facing criminal charges after he signed a contract and took money to remodel a bathroom in a Muncy Creek home in 2021 and only did the demolition work.  According to the Sun Gazette, Albert Zeitler of No Boundaries Construction was charged with theft by deception failure to perform services and making false statements.  He waived his preliminary hearing and is free today on five thousand dollars bail.

IMPACT FEE PAYOUTS DISTRIBUTED

Payments from Natural gas impact fees have been distributed across our area according to a notice by 83rd District Representative Jeff Wheeland of Loyalsock Township.  The Sun Gazette reports that out of 123.2 million dollars provided to communities directly affected by drilling through Act 13 of 2012, the city of Williamsport has received over 528 thousand dollars of it.  Other Lycoming County communities receiving payments include Armstrong, Clinton, Loyalsock, Old Lycoming, Susquehanna and Woodward townships as well as DuBoistown, Montgomery, and South Williamsport Boroughs.

NEW PUMP TRACK INSTALLED IN WATSONTOWN PARK

The Watsontown borough has used a 32 thousand dollar award from DCED Greenways Trails and recreation fund to install a new pump track for recreational skateboarding and biking in Watsontown Memorial Park.  The installation of a 53 x 20 foot pump track from American Ramp Company was approved by council and cost a total of 37 thousand dollars.  The gravel pad had already been prepared for the area where the track is installed, but the portable nature of the project can allow for a new layout or additions when funds allow.  The borough said that TK Tackle has a food truck and vendor event planned for the park July 9th.

SPORTS

MLB

Yankees 9           A’s 5
Nationals 3         Pirates 2
Blue Jays 7         Red Sox 2
Twins 11             Guardians 1
Orioles 9             Mariners 2
Rockies 4            Dodgers 0
Angels 4              White Sox 3
Rangers 10          Royals 4
Cardinals 9         Marlins 0

MLB News
After Sunday’s brawl between the Seattle Mariners and Los Angeles Angels, punishment was handed down by Major League Baseball. Yesterday they suspended 12 players, managers and coaches for a total of 47 games after an extensive fight that began after Angels pitcher Andrew Wantz hit Mariners outfielder Jesse Winker with a pitch.

MLB Draft League
Crosscutters come home tonight for a three game series this week against the West Virginia Black Bears – first pitch at 6:35pm

NCAA Athletics
Penn State Harrisburg Athletics has been awarded the 2021-22 the United East Conference Presidents’ Cup. They earned four United East championships, including men’s basketball, baseball, and men’s and women’s soccer. Men’s and women’s cross-country, men’s golf, and men’s and women’s tennis earned runner-up finishes at their respective championship events, while women’s volleyball, women’s basketball and softball also earned postseason tournament nods. Cups are awarded for athletic success, academic excellence, community service and sportsmanship.

BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS JUNE 27, 2022

PA LEGISLATION HAS RESPONSE TO ABORTION RULING

Following the decision of the US Supreme court to overturn Roe vs Wade last week, it’s noted that Pennsylvania does not have an automatic legal restriction of abortion services, but legislation has been introduced that faces all those legal hurdles on both sides of the issue.  According to the Sun Gazette, legislation has been introduced this session that seeks to protect as well as change the current law allowing an abortion for women in their 24th week or later if the mother’s life is at risk.  Governor Wolf has vetoed bills attacking current law in the past. In the upcoming election climate, democratic candidate Josh Shapiro supports current law upholding abortion rights, Doug Mastriano wants a total ban on abortions with no exceptions. 

TWO EMPLOYEES INDICTED IN CREDIT UNION LOAN FRAUD

Two credit union employees from New Columbia, a mother and daughter, have been indicted after using member’s names and information to fraudulently apply for loans totaling up to 1.2 million dollars.  According to Penn Live, 68 year old Mindy Plasters and 33 year old Brittany Aikey were arraigned and later released following charges against them including conspiracy to commit bank fraud against Nu Credit Union In Milton.  According to court records the two allegedly worked together to complete the fake transactions between 2009 and 2017.

FIREFIGHTER BILL CAN HELP JUNIOR FIREFIGHTERS

In an effort to try and turn around an urgent need for trained firefighters in Pennsylvania, House Bill 2268 has unanimously passed in the House allowing a 17-year-old junior firefighter to complete the Interior Firefighting Module with Live Burns training program in the Fire Training System. This would allow junior firefighters to become full-fledged members of a firehouse as soon as they become 18.  To take the additional training at 17, junior firefighters would need to have the permission of their parents and fire chief.  The legislation now goes to the Senate for consideration.

PENN COLLEGE TO HONOR GILMORE

With the upcoming retirement of Penn College President, Dr. Davie Jane Gilmour on June 30th, the Board of Directors there is honoring her achievements, by renaming of the Student & Administrative Services Center building in her honor. The board also granted emeritus status to Gilmour, who retires after 24 years as President.  She was an instructor at the school since 1977.

NURSE’S AIDE CHARGED WITH STEALING MEDS

An Avis woman is in trouble after falsifying documents and stealing opioids from a facility where she worked as a nurses aide.  According to the Sun Gazette, 33 year old Joanna Marie Beck, stole oxycodone pills after falsely recording that she administered them to a patient at the former Manor Care, now known as Promedica Skilled Nursing and Rehab Center in Jersey Shore.  Beck has been charged with theft and furnishing false information and has been terminated from her position at the center.  She is free on 25 thousand dollars bail after waiving her preliminary hearing.

MAN AND HIS DOG SURVIVE VEHICLE CRASH

A man from Delaware County and his dog, Liz, had a close call Sunday around noon after his vehicle went airborne over an embankment on Route 15 north, south of the Rt. 184 interchange crashing 50 feet below and they survived.  According to the Sun Gazette, the 50 year old man was wearing a seatbelt in the crash that was potentially caused by a high rate of speed.  Police say he climbed up the embankment from where his 2011 Dodge Ram truck crashed with only a bit of assistance from Trout Run firefighters who had arrived on the scene.  Liz, who was a passenger in the truck but uninjured, was cared for at the fire house while her owner was treated for his injuries at UPMC Williamsport.

WATER AND SEWER RATES GOING UP

Rates for water and sewer are going up July 1st.  According to the Sun Gazette, 51 thousand Municipal water and sanitary customers in Williamsport will see a rate increase and other townships also will raise rates.  According to the Sun Gazette, with new budgets for the fiscal year, the increases are set through til 2023.  Water authority officials say that water rates will increase by five percent and sewer will go up by 4 percent – about a 34 dollar increase for an average home.

NEW PA PRIDE BEER AVAILABLE

Highlighting the love and pride it has for Pennsylvania’s agriculture industry, PA Pride has released its’ 6th beer in an 8 beer series, all featuring ingredients exclusively found in Pennsylvania; called Fruited Sour.  According to North Central PA dot com, Bald Birds Brewery in Jersey Shore is one place in Central PA to try the new offering.  State sourced ingredients include grain and malt from Deer Creek Malthouse in West Chester, hops from Southern Aroma in King of Prussia and the special Philly Sour Yeast that was isolated in West Philadelphia by a research team from University Of The Sciences.  Two more beers are expected in the series; Amber Lager and a Multi-Grain Saison.  Go to breweries in pa dot com for more information.

SPORTS

NASCAR
After a rain delay for the Ally 400 at Nashville Superspeedway, Chase Elliott beat Kurt Busch in a restart and held the lead with nine laps to go, followed by Ryan Blaney, Kyle Larson, and Ross Chastain to round out the top five.

NHL Stanley Cup Playoff Final
Avalanche 2  Lightning 1
Colorado wins the Stanley Cup Final for the 3rd time in franchise history

MLB
Marlins 3            Mets 2
Yankees 6           Astros 3 /10 innings
Red Sox 8           Guardians 3
Rays 4                 Pirates 2
White Sox 4       Orioles 3
Nationals 6         Rangers 4
Reds 10               Giants 3
Phillies 8             Padres 5
Dodgers 5           Braves 3

MLB Draft League
Crosscutters return home to Muncy Bank Ballpark tomorrow night against the West Virginia Black Bears with a first pitch at 6:35.

BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS JUNE 24, 2022

POLICE: DRIVE-BY SHOOTING COULD BE RETALIATION FOR MURDER

Police suspect three men they have in custody and one for whom they have a warrant, attempted to retaliate against the murder of the man killed May 19th in the Penn Jersey Mart in Sunbury, by participating in a drive by shooting June 15th.  According to North Central PA dot com, police are investigating seven shots fired at a relative of suspect Ajani Munsh-Ousha Uhuru, and following the disvoery of surveillance video footage of the shooting, took Francky Riche of Sunbury into custody yesterday on attempted homicide charges, and Isaac Holley of Northumberland and Reggie Houseal Jr of Sunbury were also charged as accomplices. Police say they have a warrant for a fourth suspect, Anthony Moultrie, of Sunbury, who will also be charged with attempted homicide.

DUI SUSPECT CHARGED WITH ASSAULT AFTER KICKING OFFICER

A Williamsport woman became unruly during a traffic stop, and later kicked a Williamsport officer, and now also faces assault charges. According to the Sun Gazette, 29 year old Amanda Rivera was stopped initially due to being seen by police almost hitting a parked car.  When police discovered her with a suspended license and an open container on the passenger seat, they attempted to perform field sobriety tests ,but Rivera was uncooperative.  She was taken to police headquarters where she kicked an officer.  She was arraigned on the aggravated assault charge and DUI and is Lycoming County Prison in lieu of 25 thousand dollars bail.

RIVER VALLEY TRANSIT BECOMES AN AUTHORITY SOON

The process to transition the city and regional bus service to an authority from under the umbrella of Williamsport City Government is about complete, with fiscal year July 1st being the first day for operations of the River Valley Transit Authority.  According to the Sun Gazette, a five member authority board will work with the authority staff to maintain transparency and keep city government in the loop.  The City Council transit oversight committee gave positive recommendations for resolving to finalize employee pensions and health care, as well as transfer the bus ownership and funds to the Authority.  

LYCOMING COLLEGE RECOGNIZED AS A GOOD VALUE

Lycoming College has received recognition as one of the best values in a college education by Money Magazine.  According to the Sun Gazette, out of 236 private colleges with enrollment less than 25-hundred students, Lycoming College ranked number 46.  According to Money magazine the criteria used to develop rankings for their college lists include quality of education, affordability, and outcomes.  Lycoming also received one of the highest Return on Investment rankings as recognized by the Princeton Review.  

FIREARMS CHARGES AGAINST CLINTON COUNTY MAN

A man from Clinton County is now facing charges for an illegal sale of a firearm that took place in 2020.  According to the Sun Gazette, 40 year old Rodney Lee Tyger of Lock Haven tried to buy a gun at National Sporting Goods in Jersey Shore in December 2020 and was found to have put down false information on a legal document.  Tiadaghton Valley Regional Police have charged Tyger with illegal sale or transfer of a firearm and making unsworn falsification on a legal document for authorities.  He is free on 5 thousand dollars bail.

POLICE SEEK MAN WHO DAMAGED PLAYGROUND EQUIPMENT

A bald man wearing sunglasses who entered the new playground at Hufnagle park in Lewisburg Monday about 7:45 pm and damaged the safety surface that had just been installed is being sought by Buffalo Valley Regional Police.  According to North Central Pa dot com, police say a man and a small child walked along the railroad tracks toward Market St and entered the Kidsburg playground area, then exited the park heading east on St. Louis St, after doing more than 2 thousand dollars worth of damage – in addition to some damage which cannot be repaired.  If you have information about the suspect should contact the Buffalo Valley Regional Police Department.  (570) 524-4302.

GROUND BREAKING AT WEST PHARMACEUTICAL

A ground breaking event happened this week with local leaders participating in the ceremony for the expansion of West Pharmaceutical on Reach Road in Williamsport. According to the Sun Gazette, the new construction at West represents an important investment for the company and the community.  The Governor’s Action team coordinated the expansion project which could bring at least 200 good paying jobs to the area.  Loyalsock Township’s Senator Gene Yaw was on hand for the groundbreaking as well, announcing 500 thousand dollars in state funding to secure the expansion.

NEW FEMALE POLICE CHIEF IN SELINSGROVE BOROUGH

Selinsgrove borough has hired a new police chief, the first ever female chief according to Snyder County area history.  According to a press release, Shanee Mitchell will lead the force after a successful 20 year career with the City of Philadelphia Police Department.  Her tenure begins after her background check and clearances are returned and finalized; sometime in mid-July.  Mitchell has a husband Wesley and three children.

SPORTS

MLB
Pirates 8              Cubs 7
Braves 7              Giants 6
Dodgers 10         Reds 5
Twins 1               Guardians 0
Yankees 7           Astros 6
Orioles 4             White Sox 0
Phillies 6             Padres 2  

NHL Tonight
Tampa Bay is in Colorado for the Stanley Cup Final – Game 5 @8pm on ABC and ESPN+

NASCAR

The Ally 400 – Nashville Superspeedway Sunday w/ Coverage starting @5pm on our sister station WWPA, the Twin Valley’s Talk Radio Network or WILQ’s HD3

MLB Draft League
Williamsport 9   Mahoning Valley 7
Crosscutters and Scrappers play game 2 out of 3 tonight in Mahoning Valley at Eastwood Field.

BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS JUNE 23, 2022

WASD ADMINISTRATORS RESPOND TO PRINCIPAL’S ARREST

Williamsport School District issued an official statement yesterday, responding to the arrest of school principal Roger Freed on sexual assault charges.  According to the statement, the district is suspending Freed with pay as the investigation into the charges continues.  They are also offering counseling for any student who wishes to call 570-323-8411 and make an appointment. According to the Sun Gazette, Freed was originally hired as a math teacher at the school in 2011, but was most recently a 9th grade principal.  The felony charges stem from a relationship Freed began with a student in 2014 until this past April.  He is free on 175 thousand dollars intense supervised bail.

UPDATE ON SELINSGROVE MOTORCYCLE CRASH

More information about the victim critically injured in a high speed crash Monday in Selinsgrove has been released.  According to media outlets, state police say 39 year old Adam Hummel from Middleburg hit a pole while allegedly speeding on University Avenue travelling west near East Snyder Park.  Life flight was called to the scene along with other volunteers and EMS staff.  Hospital officials say Hummel was flown to Geisinger in critical condition, but no word on his progress today. 

LOCAL COFFEE BAR AND CAFÉ TO CLOSE

A favorite Williamsport farm to table restaurant and coffee bar will be closing this Monday.  The Sawhorse Café, at 303 Washington Blvd, made the statement on their Facebook page that they are closing down for now, to focus on their personal well-being and maybe will reopen in the future with fresh energy and new ideas. According to the Sun Gazette, Hannah and Jesse Darrow opened the Sawhorse in 2015, and say that their other business, Buzzsaw Coffee at the Pajama factory will remain open.

TICKET SWEEPSTAKES FOR LITTLE LEAGUE CLASSIC IN AUGUST

Major League Baseball is offering a chance for Lycoming County residents to win tickets to the Major League Baseball Little League Classic again this year, for the game to be played Sunday, August 21st between the Red Sox and the Orioles on ESPN’s Sunday Night Baseball.  According to the Sun Gazette, legal Lycoming County residents 18 and older can enter the sweepstakes by going online to MLB.com/LLClassic by noon Wednesday June 29th.  There will be fifty chances awarded for the tickets.  This will be the 5th MLB Little League Classic game held at Historic Bowman field.  There was no game in 2020 because of the pandemic.

WOODWARD TOWNSHIP RESPONDS TO WASD PRINCIPAL ARREST

 In light of the allegations against the 9th grade principle at Williamsport Area School District, the Woodward Township Board of Supervisors sent a letter to each of the members of the Williamsport School Board requesting the termination of Superintendent, Dr. Timothy Bowers.  According to North Central PA dot com,  the letter states that the school leadership at Williamsport failed to keep children safe after allegations were brought forth against Principle Roger Freed, of Cogan Station, who allegedly had a long term relationship with a student from 2014 until this spring.  Williamsport area Schools issued a statement yesterday saying they would suspend Freed with pay while the investigation continues.

ADDITIONAL CHARGES FOR HIT AND RUN SUSPECT

A Williamsport man originally jailed for reckless endangerment and hit and run after hitting another with his Chevy Cruze and fleeing on May 11th, has had additional attempted homicide charges levied against him.  According to the Sun Gazette, following the apprehension and arrest of Gregory Emerick, police searched Emerick’s car and found dash cam evidence that  his actions, police say, were deliberately trying to cause serious injury towards Jeremie Dunham, who was hospitalized with multiple serious injuries.  Emerick was arraigned  yesterday for the additional felony charges involving personal injury in a hit and run.  He remains incarcerated on no bail.

CONNECTOR WORK STALLED BY FALCONS WILL START

Work on the Bald Eagle Valley Bike Trail that was supposed to resume the linking of Wayne and Pine Creek Townships over the West Branch of the Susquehanna River in May was delayed six weeks because a nest of young peregrine falcons was discovered on one of the bridge piers there. According to the Record Online work will pick up again this summer since the PA Game Commission gave the go-ahead after the young falcons took flight last week.  The delay has pushed the work back further than originally planned, but the Clinton County Planning Department says there will be a ribbon cutting for the connector in August.

PA’S RANK IN MAPLE SYRUP PRODUCTION DROPS

Even with five thousand more taps than 2021, Pennsylvania’s ranking as a leading producer of Maple Syrup has dropped to number 7 after only producing 164 thousand gallons of syrup this season – 4 thousand less gallons of the stuff than last year.  The number one producer in the nation is Vermont with a record 2 million 550 thousand gallons, followed by New York, Maine, Wisconsin, Michigan, and New Hampshire. 

SPORTS

HS Baseball
The Mid Penn Conference baseball all-star team was announced yesterday and  Muncy was honored with two top nods… Muncy Coach Chris Persing was named Coach of the Year and the league’s MVP spot was shared between Ross Eyer, a junior from Muncy, and Landon Evans, a senior at Millville. 

NHL
Avalanche 3 Lightning 2
Stanley Cup Final Game 4 Colorado leads 3-1
NHL Friday
Stanley Cup final Game 5 Tampa Bay in Colorado @8pm on ABC and ESPN+

MLB
Astros 5               Mets 3
Rangers 4           Phillies 2
Dodgers 8           Reds 4
Cubs 14               Pirates 5
Orioles 7              Nationals 0
Red Sox 6           Tigers 2
Yankees 5           Rays 4
Braves 4              Giants 3
Guardians 11      Twins 10

MLB Draft League
Game 3 between the Crosscutters and Black Bears was rained out.  Williamsport heads to Mahoning Valley for Game 1 out of 3 tonight 7:05 first pitch.

NASCAR

Bruton Smith, a longtime NASCAR fixture and a Hall of Fame inductee for building and promoting auto racing events nationwide, died Wednesday at age 95 of natural causes. Born Ollen Bruton Smith in 1927, the North Carolinian worked as a track promoter before making his mark designing and building Charlotte Motor Speedway, a 1.5-mile oval now known for annually hosting NASCAR’s longest race at 600 miles in length.

BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS JUNE 22, 2022

WASD PRINCIPAL CHARGED WITH FELONY SEXUAL ASSAULT

A Williamsport Area School District principal was arrested yesterday on felony charges after it was discovered that he allegedly sustained a long term relationship with a male student from 2014 until April of 2022.  According to the Sun Gazette, 34 year old Roger Weaver Freed of Cogan Station faces more than 30 felony counts of sexual assault and corrupting the morals of a minor, as well as misdemeanors of furnishing alcohol to a minor.  Freed is a ninth grade principal at Williamsport, on deck to take over as head principal.  He was arraigned and is free on 175 thousand dollar intense supervised bail, with an ankle monitor. 

FAST PLAY LOTTERY WINNER IN LYCOMING COUNTY

A Pennsylvania Lottery  Pennsylvania Progressive game has made a Lycoming County customer at the Dandy Mini Mart in Jersey Shore on June 14th  862 thousand, eight hundred and three dollars and fifty cents richer.  According to North Central PA dot com, one player played Pennsylvania Progressive Fast Play Game last week and brought home a winner – Fast Play is similar to scratch-off tickets without the need for scratching a paper ticket.  The Dandy Mini Mart received a five thousand dollar bonus for selling the ticket.  Fast Play prizes must be claimed within one year of the ticket’s purchase date.

AUSTRALIA EARNS A SPOT IN THE LLWS

A little league baseball team from Queensland, Australia has earned their direct entry in the 2022 Little League World Series in Williamsport this week after they dominated a seven game tournament.  According to a press release by little league international, the Australia Region champion joins the Panama Region winner as the first two teams to confirm a spot for the World Series.  First-round matchups include Brisbane North Region LL squaring off against the winner of the Canada Region in Game 3 on Wednesday, August 17, at 5pm in Volunteer Stadium.

LINDEN MAN SAID HE WANTED TO BE ARRESTED

An allegedly drunk man from Linden called state police this week before he caused a commotion at the Sheetz in Woodward Township and told them he wanted to go to jail.  According to the Sun Gazette, 22 year old Nyreece Speck arrived at the store in his 2004 Nissan Sentra, harassed employees and refused to leave the premises when asked, until Troopers arrived.  Speck allegedly fought the police, too, resisting arrest, and was charged with resisting, several counts of assault, DUI and disorderly conduct.  Speck is in the Lycoming County Prison in lieu of 75 thousand dollars bail.

TWO MOTORCYCLISTS ARRESTED AFTER HIGH SPEED CHASE

Two young men were charged with fleeing a police officer May 16th after they attempted to elude officers in Snyder County with a high speed chase.  According to North Central PA dot com, 20 year old Zachary Beiler of Sunbury and 19 year old Elijah Bailor from Selinsgrove were traveling on Route 204 in Jackson Township going 77 in a 45 mph zone, and were spotted by a state trooper.  The officer activated his cruiser lights and the two men fled the scene.  While police were in pursuit, Bailor lost control of his motorcycle and crashed a short time later.  Beiler pulled his motorcycle over and both men were then arrested and charged with misdemeanors.  Both will have a preliminary hearing July 7th.

PA REPUBLICANS BLOCK GUN REFORM BILL

A proposal to prevent those under 21 to have assault style weapons was blocked by State House Republicans yesterday instead changing the bill to an amendment to allow anyone to carry concealed guns . According to information from the Pennsylvania General Assembly, it was the second week in a row that Republicans in the Judiciary Committee used their majority to defeat Democratic proposals to address gun violence.  The vote was nearly on party lines, with only one Republican from Philadelphia, crossing lines to vote against it. What is known as constitutional carry has wide support among Republicans in the legislature, but a bill to allow it was vetoed by Gov. Tom Wolf in December.

BIG CATFISH TOPS THE PA ANGLERS LIST

The PA Angler Awards have been announced and a fisherman from Selinsgrove broke the record for the largest fish caught in the commonwealth in 2021.  According to North Central PA dot com, it took Garrett Hollenbach 15 minutes to catch the 57 pound 9 ounce flathead catfish while competing in the 24 hour Iron Man event within the Catfish Mafia Tournament Series along the Susquehanna River last September.  The Angler Awards list the top five fish by type – determined by the weight.  Hollenbach’s fish is technically the largest fish caught in Pennsylvania, but the PA Fish and Boat Commission won’t certify the catch because there was no official officer at the tournament where he competed last year. 

SPORTS

MLB
Dodgers 8           Reds 2
Pirates 7              Cubs 1
Nationals 3         Orioles 0
Red Sox 5           Tigers 4
Rays 5                 Yankees 4
Giants 12            Braves 10
Guardians 6        Twins 5
Rangers 7            Phillies 0
Astros 8               Mets 2


MLB Draft League
West Virginia 11 Williamsport 4
MLB Draft League Tonight
Crosscutters and Black Bears play Game 3 out of 3 in West Virginia,  then Williamsport plays out the week in Mahoning Valley.  The Crosscutters play the West Virginia Black Bears at home next Tuesday, June 28th with a 6:35pm first pitch.

NHL Tonight
Colorado (2-1) is in Tampa Bay for the Stanley Cup Final Game 4 @8pm on ABC and ESPN+

BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS JUNE 21, 2022

POLICE, MARSHALS APPREHEND FUGITIVE

A man wanted by the Lycoming County Sheriff’s Office for various offenses including possession with intent to deliver and DUI, has been apprehended.  According to the Sun Gazette, 23 year old Fareed Kale was located by police and the US Marshals service April 25th at a Williamsport residence on Vine Avenue, He ran from the area before being captured a few blocks away in a yard on Grier Street.  Kale was arraigned for flight to avoid apprehension, a felony charge, and is in custody in lieu of 50 thousand dollars bail.

TAX HIKE FOR SOUTH WILLIAMSPORT

South Williamsport Area School District has approved a resolution that leads to a tax hike for the upcoming school year’s budget.  According to the Sun Gazette, property owners are going to see real estate tax millage rising by one point fro last year’s budget, setting it at 18.75.  Board President Todd Engel was a dissenting vote, making the statement that he wanted to keep the increase to just .75 mills. 

PA PARKS COULD TRADE-IN LIQUOR LICENSE

Amusement parks in Pennsylvania could expand their sale of alcohol if the Pennsylvania House of Representatives approves a bill that will allow parks to trade-in their restaurant liquor license for a Public Venue License.  State Representative Ryan Mackenzie says a Public Venue License makes more sense for amusement parks since it’s used in hotels, golf courses, ski resorts, bowling allies, museums, and science centers.  The House Liquor Control Committee already passed this bill in December.  It now will go for a second consideration by the full House today.

SUMMER PROGRAM COORDINATOR RECOGNIZED BY PA WILDS

A Pennsdale woman is one of nine people or organizations to win the 2022 Champions of the PA Wilds Awards, and she and the other Champions will be recognized at the PA Wilds Dinner and Awards event July 28th .  According to the Sun Gazette, Lu Potter, one of the founders of what is now known as Project Nature C.A.M.P., formerly Summer Alive in Montgomery was given the Inspiring Youth Award for her work overseeing programming and enrichment for children including a nutritious food program during summers.  Nominations for the PA Wilds Awards are generated by the public.  The banquet to be held next month, will honor all the winners, registration is required to attend. Pawildscenter.org.

TWO ARRESTS AFTER INITIAL HIGH SPEED CHASE

The passenger in a crash following a high speed chase near the Market St. bridge near I-180 June 12th was taken into custody for having a firearm with the serial number altered.  According to North Central PA dot com, police say 18 year old Nyla Daniels of Red Lion, drove from the Maynard Street Sheetz at a high rate of speed, sparking a chase by police which involved one stop before Daniels fled the scene.  Police were called a few minutes later to an accident off the Market St Bridge in Williamsport.  Daniels had wrecked.  Police say during the search of the car, her passenger, 18 year old Taiyanna Lopez, was found to have an unregistered Glock 26 with two 9mm magazines of ammunition.  Both women were incarcerated for separate charges, in lieu of 25 thousand dollars bail. Their preliminary hearings are today.

WASHINGTON TOWNSHIP CRASH UPDATE

The other three people who were injured in the fatal Washington Township accident last Monday that killed passenger 36 year old Cody Rishel along I-80, have been identified.  According to the Sun Gazette 47 year old Eric Stroup of Hughesville was driving his Ford Edge and hit the back of a tractor trailer in the westbound passing lane of the interstate, back seat passengers, 39 year old Ryan Hoy of Watsontown, and 31 year old Michael Miller of San Angelo, Texas were seriously injured and taken to UPMC Altoona for treatment. The driver of the tractor trailer was not injured.  Rishel was trapped in the wreckage and was declared deceased at the scene by the Jefferson County Coroner.

FENTAYL STRIP LEGISLATION HEADS TO THE PA SENATE

Legislation to decriminalize test strips that let drug users identify deadly doses of fentanyl was passed in the House yesterday.  According to Indiana, Pennsylvania Republican Jim Struzzi the simple tool of a test strip can help reduce deaths and give heroin users a second chance, as well as allowing them to avoid the risk of added drug charges.  Fentanyl is a synthetic opioid that is added to other drugs to make them stronger and with uncontrolled dosage levels can be deadly.  The legislation was sent to the Senate for consideration.

DANVILLE FARMLAND DEDICATED FOR ATHLETICS NOW

The final sales agreement that will transform Danville area farmland to athletic fields for the school district there was approved last week.  According to the Daily Item, just over 20 acres of land formerly used by the Danville State Hospital is adjacent to the school and is meant to be used only for athletic fields.  A new primary school was built on some of the land by the district, taking the space formerly used for soccer, softball, baseball and field hockey fields, but when Ironmen stadium was built it gave the school more athletic use options.  Danville Soccer park is used for the school competitions.

SPORTS

NHL
Stanley Cup Final Game 3
Lightning 6 Avalanche 2 – Colorado still leads the series 2-1
NHL this week
Colorado stays in Tampa for Game 4, Wednesday @8pm on ABC and ESPN+ 

MLB
Mets 6        Marlins 0
Pirates 12 Cubs 1
Red Sox 5 Tigers 2
Yankees 4 Rays 2
Braves 2    Giants 1

MLB Draft League
West Virginia Black Bears 13       Williamsport Crosscutters 4

MLB Draft League Tonight
Crosscutters stay in WV tonight for Game 2 out of 3.

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