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.

BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS JUNE 20, 2022

ROUTE 15 CRASH KILLS ONE, INJURES ONE

One man was killed and another suffered minor injuries Saturday morning about 9:45 when a their  box truck went over an embankment and overturned on Route 15 South , just north of the Trout run interchange.  According to the Sun-Gazette the 26 year old driver, Travis Fedoriw of Williamport, died in the crash.  Police say he failed to negotiate a curve, first going down a 15-foot embankment then sliding down another 125 feet, to the west berm of the northbound lanes of Rt 15.  Fedoriw was killed instantly after being partially ejected from not wearing a seatbelt. The 26 year old passenger, Kaamal Barnes, of Williamsport, who was wearing a seatbelt was treated at the scene for minor injuries. Emergency crews closed the northbound lanes for several hours to clear the accident.

EMPLOYEE SEEN TAKING LOTTERY TICKETS FROM EMPLOYER

A Williamsport man is free on bail after he was arrested for stealing lottery tickets from a convenience store where he worked.  According to the Sun Gazette, 33 year old Donnell Robert Edwards is facing felony charges of thefts and receiving stolen property after police say he was seen on surveillance footage using keys from his employer to take lottery tickets from the lottery vending machine at the 7-11 on Dewey Avenue.  Edwards was arraigned in front of Judge William Solomon and posted the 15 thousand dollars bail.

IMPACT FEES COMING BACK TO LOCAL COUNTIES

State Senator Gene Yaw has announced that several counties and local municipalities in the region will be receiving Marcellus Shale Impact Fee monies after the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania has decided to release another round of disbursements. In a press release from Yaw, who serves as Chair of the Senate Environmental Resources and Energy Committee, he said approximately $234 million was distributed statewide in the most recent round of funding based on natural gas production in 2021. Of that, over $48 million will be sent back to Bradford, Lycoming, Sullivan, Susquehanna and Union counties and municipal governments.

TWO HOSPITALS GET AWARDS FOR STROKE CARE

Two Central Pennsylvania hospitals have received American Heart Association’s Get with the Guidelines – Stroke quality achievement awards. UPMC Williamsport received GoldPlus recognition and UPMC Lock Haven received SilverPlus which recognize the hospitals’ commitment to ensuring stroke patients receive the most appropriate treatment according to nationally recognized, research-based guidelines, ultimately leading to more lives saved. Stroke is the No. 5 cause of death and a leading cause of disability nationwide.

CANTON MAN FACES 150 COUNTS FOR CHILD PORNOGRAPHY

A Canton area man faces child pornography charges for downloading various images and videos including ones involving minors. According to North Central Pa dot com, police arrested 57 year old Duane William Molyneux who was already a lifetime offender on the sexual predator registry. Molyneux was charged with 50 counts of second – and another 100 counts of a third-degree felony child pornography, as well as distribution and misuse of communication device charges.  Molyneux is being held at the Bradford County Prison on $2 million bond with a preliminary hearing June 22nd.

TWO JAILED FOR MOTORCYCLE THEFT

Two men from Muncy are facing burglary and theft charges after they allegedly stole a motorcycle from a garage on Water Street in Muncy in April. According to the Sun Gazette, police say a township employee uncovered the motorcycle abandoned in a wooded area off  E. Mechanic Street and 18 year old Benjamin Fulger admitted his involvement in the theft to authorities while incarcerated on another matter. Dennis Edwartd Vanness was also allegedly involved in the crime.  Bothe are in Lycoming County Prison in lieu of 75 thousand dollars bail.

BLOOMSBURG MALL FACING AUCTION

Another mall in Pennsylvania could be dying – The Columbia Colonnade, near Buckhorn exit of Interstate 80, is set to be auctioned off at the end of July. According to North Central Pa dot com, the starting bid for the property is set at $3.4 million.  According to public records, PPL has posted $10,973 in back payments owed by today. The 34-acre site has seen a similar fate as other malls, with only a few anchor businesses remaining.  There is a Veterans Affairs clinic portion of the property operating inside the 400,000-square-foot building, which is also for sale.

FIRE ALLIANCE BETWEEN LOYALSOCK AND SOUTHSIDE

An alliance of fire-fighting services in Loyalsock Township and South Williamsport has been approved by both municipalities leadership.

According to the Sun Gazette, the agreement known as the Susquehanna Mutual Aid Regional Team, or SMART, will include a provision for paid fire protection and rescue services. Departments and apparatus will be funded through existing fire taxes. SMART will start with four full-time  positions, with one shared administrative position providing oversight. The five-year cooperative agreement is anticipated to have two separate firefighter crews, with one crew to be stationed at Loyalsock Township, and one at South Williamsport.

SPORTS

MLB Draft League – Sunday
Williamsport Crosscutters 6  Mahoning Valley Scrappers 3 – the Crosscutters are on the road tonight  in West Virginia with the Black Bears with a 7:05 first pitch.

MLB
Nationals 9         Phillies 3
Pirates 4              Giants 3
Red Sox 6           Cardinals 4
Orioles 2             Rays 1
Blue Jays 10       Yankees 9
Marlins 6            Mets 2
Brewers 6            Reds 3
Guardians 5        Dodgers 3

NHL Stanley Cup Final Game 2 from Saturday …
Avalanche 7 Lightning 0 –  Colorado up 2.  They play Game 3 tonight in Tampa 8 PM on ABC and ESPN+

Golf
England’s Matt Fitzpatrick won the his first PGA tour victory at the 122nd US Open at The Country Club outside Boston Sunday with a 1 shot win over Will Zalatoris and Masters champ Scottie Scheffler


USA Basketball
Two Lycoming basketball standouts, Mo Terry and Dyson Harward, have been selected to play for the USA East Coast Basketball all-star team. The team will play in Athens, Greece, and will be coached by University of Arkansas at Little Rock’s Darrell Walker, who was also an NBA champion with the Chicago Bulls in 1993. The team will have a two-day training camp at Columbia before heading to Athens to face some of Greece’s top pro teams.

BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS JUNE 17, 2022

LIGHTNING STRIKES CASCADE CABIN

Lightning yesterday morning started a cabin fire near Rose Valley Lake in Cascade Township.  According to the Sun Gazette, about 6:30 Thursday the structure was set on fire when storms moved through the remote area.  Trout run fire officials said the cabin had burned down to the ground before crews got to the scene on Vargis Lane north or Murray Run Road.  There were no injuries reported. 

POLICE SEEK SANDWICH THIEF

A man who Sheetz employees are calling the “Big Mozz Bandit”, who comes to the Loyalsock store between 11am and noon, takes a drink from the cooler, orders the Big Mozz chicken sandwich and leaves without paying, is being sought by Montoursville State Police.  According to a spokesperson for the store say the man who is African American, wears Yankees or Mets clothing, and has a moustache and goatee, has repeatedly stolen other  items from the store – several times in May and most recently on June 10th.  If you know anything about the suspect please call PSP at 570-368-5700.

GROUP WANTS TO PAUSE POLICE REGIONALIZATION

A grassroots group of citizens in Old Lycoming Township is asking authorities to pause their police regionalization process with the Tiadaghton Valley Regional Police until they can restructure and get more of the public involved as they proceed.  According to the Sun Gazette, the group of former government and community emergency management personnel, who call themselves Concerned Citizens of Old Lycoming Township, presented the supervisors with analysis of a Department of Community and Economic Development study on police regionalization they have referenced, but are asking them to proceed using  recommended guidelines put forth by DCED. The group also wants a more transparent process moving forward.  Lyco Township supervisors say they are waiting on information about pension and salary collective bargaining units before they can decide on regionalizing the police department.

D4’S RED RAIDERS ARE CLASS A SOFTBALL STATE CHAMPIONS

The Montgomery Area High School softball team got their parade through the borough after winning the PIAA Class A State Championship in State College yesterday against Dubois Central Catholic earning a spot in history being the first in the school’s program to successfully reach the championship.  According to the Sun Gazette, in the last three games, Montgomery who was 22 and 4 for the season, beat the best teams in the state by a 27-2 margin, Congratulations to the Montgomery Red Raiders!

MAN WHO THREW VICTIMS’ SEVERED LEGS OFF BRIDGE PLEADS GUILTY

The Montoursville man arrested in 2019 for the murder of his girlfriend in 2003 has entered a plea agreement of guilty, avoiding a jury trial and a longer prison sentence.  According to the Sun Gazette, 52 year old Jade Babcock of Montoursville plead guilty to killing 37 year old Brenda Jacobs following an argument, then storing her body for years and severing her legs before discarding them in the Susquehanna River off the Maynard Street bridge in Williamsport.  Babcock has already spent the last three years in prison, he’ll now serve 15-30 for his crime.

MOTHER WHO STARVED CHILDREN CHARGED WITH FRAUD

The woman who is facing homicide charges for the starving deaths of two of her children, has now been charged with theft and fraud for receiving public benefits for children who were deceased but she claimed were alive.  According to North Central Pa dot com, police say 33 year old Marie Sue Snyder took almost 70 thousand dollars in benefits between 2016 and 2021 from the PA department of Human services while she lied about the eligibility of her family. Snyder said in sworn testimony in March that she and another intentionally starved daughters 6 year old Nicole and 4 year old jasmine causing their deaths in2016 and 2017. Snyder has a hearing on the fraud charges June 27th and will be in court June 17th for motions on the homicide case.

ARMORY SIREN WENT OFF BY ACCIDENT

If you heard the siren coming out of the Penn Street Armory Wednesday around 12:30, it was set off in error.  According to a statement from the Williamsport Bureau of Fire, the system malfunctioned causing the warning to be triggered accidentally, but no city or county official initiated the siren and there was no emergency.  In the event of an emergency, the siren alerts residents to tune into local TV and radio for direction.  If a test is to be performed, the community will be given ample notice before the emergency warning siren goes off.

PENNDOT SURVEY ON ELECTRIC CHARGING STATIONS AVAILABLE

PennDOT is seeking feedback from the public as they determine how to distribute over 171 million dollars in federal funding on the way for an electric vehicle charging infrastructure over the next 5 years.  According to a statement, PennDOT will have the survey on their website available until June 30th, which will help them build a deployment plan due to the US department of Transportation this August.  The project is to comply with the Alternative Fuel Corridor requirements mandating a charging station no farther apart than 50 miles from each other and no further than a mile from a highway intersection or interstate exit. Take the survey here; Electric Vehicles and Alternative Fuels (pa.gov)

SPORTS

The Montgomery Red Raiders are the PIAA Varsity Softball Class A State Champions, they defeated DuBois Central Catholic 5-1 yesterday at Nittany Lion Softball Park, Penn State University.

Class 3A Championship Avonworth Antelopes  7  Lewisburg Green Dragons 2

PIAA Varsity Baseball State Class 5A Championship           
Today
Selinsgrove vs Bethel Park -Medlar Field, Lubrano Park, Penn State University @ 4:30

NBA Finals Game 6
Warriors 103                Celtics 90
Golden State Warriors wins the series 4-2 earning their 4th Title in 8 years.

MLB
Orioles 10           Blue Jays 2
Guardians 4        Rockies 2
Phillies 10           Nationals 1
Yankees 2           Rays 1
Mets 5                 Brewers 4

NHL Tomorrow night
Stanley Cup Finals Game 2
Tampa Bay plays in Colorado 8 PM on ABC and ESPN+  Colorado’s up 1

No NASCAR this weekend … Racing comes back June 26 in Nashville for the Ally 400. Listen on WILQ ‘s HD3 or our sister station the Twin Valleys Talk Radio Network.

BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS JUNE 16, 2022

INCARCERATED WASD STUDENT CLEARED OF WRONGDOING

The Williamsport High School Student who was accused of sending terroristic threats through a school messaging platform and incarcerated for four weeks as a result of those charges has been cleared by authorities.  According to the Sun Gazette, police say a 16 year old student gained access to the school account of Lucaus Adam Butler, to send the threatening messages that looked like they were sent from Butler but were not.  Police say the juvenile has admitted to the charges and he will now be petitioned into juvenile court.

INMATE DIES OF SUSPECTED SUICIDE

A Snyder County prison inmate died Tuesday morning of suspected suicide according to prison officials.  The identity of the 36 year old inmate was not released, but according to the daily item, the man was not under suicide watch and was considered low risk for self-harm.  The Snyder County District Attorney and state police came to the prison after he was discovered unresponsive in his cell at about 3am – they have determined that there was no foul play involved.  Prison staff performed CPR but the man was pronounced dead by emergency responders at the Union County facility.

MAN JAILED FOR CODE INFRACTIONS

Warnings and summary citations were not enough to get a 46 year old Lycoming County property owner to clean up his home when codes enforcement officers in Williamsport inspected and deemed its condition poor. According to North Central PA dot com, Michael Greco of Coal Township was arrested and charged with first and second degree failure to comply with code requirements after officers came to the property and continually found debris strewn about including appliances, metal, metal sheets and other items on the  lawn and around the house.  Greco posted $5 thousand dollars unsecured bail and will have a preliminary hearing June 21st .

NEW TRAINING FOR LITTLE LEAGUE COACHES

Little League International has implemented a new pilot training program for coaches.  According to the Little League website, the “Little League Diamond Leader Training Program,” will educate volunteer coaches on their role supporting the social and emotional well-being of the players, using up to date materials and interactive scenarios so volunteers can get the resources and guidance they need to  help the players have the best possible experience every season.  A full launch of the Diamond Leader Training Program is planned for the 2023 season.

COURT DATE SET FOR ALLEGED SWORD WIELDING SUSPECT

A Shamokin man who is in custody for allegedly killing a woman in his home with a sword will have his preliminary hearing June 21st.  According to the Daily Item, Corey Quincy allegedly stabbed Rhonda Pearce with the weapon in early April after an argument involving drugs at his Vine Street home. Police say they got a tip from a family member about Quincy’s drug use and when they went to the home, discovered Pearce’s body which was left in an upstairs bedroom from the altercation a few days prior.  Quincy was arrested on April 8th and denied bail.

PROBATION OFFICER APPOINTED TO MAGISTRATE COURT

A former probation officer in Snyder County has been nominated to fill the vacant magisterial district judge position, previously held by Judge Lori Hackenberg.  According to media outlets, state senator John Gordner said Bo Trawitz has been nominated to the commonwealth court.  Trawitz was a Mifflin county probation officer from 2003 to 2013 and has Snyder County’s Chief Probation officer since then.  Hackenberg’ seat was vacant after she was elected to the Court of Common Pleas for Snyder and Union Counties.

GROUNDBREAKING PLANNED IN WILLIAMSPORT

There will be a groundbreaking ceremony June 22nd for the expansions planned for future growth in Williamsport at West Pharmaceutical Services. According to a news release, the Reach Road expansion will include three stories for operations in 37 thousand square feet of space, which will allow the company to produce compounded rubber materials that are then processed at their Jersey Shore facility for global use. The company says the expansion in the Lycoming County region will create many family sustaining jobs.

BLACK BEAR SEEN IN SELINSGROVE BOROUGH

The Pennsylvania Game Commission was called yesterday after witnesses said a black bear was wandering through Selinsgrove borough.  According to the Daily Item, the officer was unable to locate the bear that was seen near the community pool.  The agency is looking to capture and relocate the bear to a less populated area.  If you have information about or see the bear, call 911 or 814-643-1831 and report the bear sighting.

SPORTS

PIAA Varsity Softball State Championships New Start times today!
Class 1A
Montgomery vs DuBois Central Catholic – Beard Field, Nittany Lion Softball Park, Penn State University @10:30am
Class 3A
Lewisburg vs Avonworth – Beard Field, Nittany Lion Softball Park, Penn State University @12:30pm

MLB Draft League
Williamsport Crosscutters 7  Trenton Thunder 5
Williamsport and Trenton meet up again tonight @ Muncy Bank Ballpark – first pitch @6:35

MLB
Phillies 3                      Marlins 1
Diamondbacks 7          Reds 4
Braves 8                        Nationals 2
Yankees 4                     Rays 3
Bluejays 7                    OrioleS 6
Brewers 10                   Mets 2
Red Sox 10                  A’s 1
Pirates 6                        Cardinals 4
Guardians 7                  Rockies 5

NHL
Avalanche 4        Lightning 3 – Stanley Cup Finals Game 1
Stanley Cup Finals Game 2 – Tampa Bay @Colorado Saturday 8pm on ABC and ESPN+

NBA Tonight
NBA Finals Game 6 Golden State at Boston 9 PM on ABC Golden State leads 3-2

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