BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS OCTOBER 6, 2022

GARAGE FIRE EXTINGUISHED BEFORE FIRE SPREADS

Muncy area volunteer firefighters worked a garage fire yesterday and managed to save the home on the property at 263 Pepper Street.  According to the Sun Gazette, Muncy Fire Chief Scot Delany said that the garage on the property – which stood about 5 feet from the home of James and Jessica Hartman, was engulfed in flames when they arrived.  Delany said there was some damage to the homes’ siding but no fire damaged the inside of the Hartman’s home. Fire crews from Hughesville, Pennsdale, Montoursville, and Picture Rockes were on the scene. The fire’s cause was ruled accidental.

MAN IMPERSONATES OFFICER

A man from Winfield impersonated a police officer at the Buffalo Wild Wings restaurant on September 5th and is facing charges in Snyder County. According to North Central PA dot com, 29 year old Nikolas Bolig identified himself as an off-duty police officer to a man who told state police later that Bolig detained him, patted him down, brought up a previous DUI conviction and threatened him with jail time.  State police say Bolig was charged with impersonating a public servant, disorderly conduct and harassment.  He has a preliminary hearing October 26th.

GAME WARDEN LOOKING FOR SUSPECT WHO KILLED DEER

The Pennsylvania game commission‘s north central region is seeking information related to the illegal taking of a trophy class Whitetail deer in Union County close to the federal penitentiary. According to the Union County Pennsylvania sheriffs office, the game warden was made aware of a dear that had been shot and concluded that it was taken with a small caliber fire arm October 3 around 11 PM.  If you have any information about the person who shot the deer that was found in the field along route 44 in Greg Township, please report it to the Pennsylvania game commission‘s north central region at 1-833-PGC WILD.

LEAF COLLECTION TO START IN OCTOBER

Leaf collection in the city of Williamsport will begin on October 24th and should continue into December.  According to the Sun Gazette, residents are asked to just use main roads for leaves as the larger trucks don’t fit in all the alleyways.  Residents are also asked to only put loose leaves out for the trucks since sticks, limbs and other brush can jam and damages the city equipment.  Leaves and debris – but no grass clippings – can be taken to the City Brush pile at any time for any city resident with a card for the brush recycling center.

COUNTRY CUPBOARD PROPERTY TO BE TORN DOWN

The demolition of the former Country Cupboard Restaurant and Gift Shops along Route 15 in Lewisburg is set to begin October 11th.  Evangelical Community Hospital acquired the property after the restaurant operated in that location for 49 years, and closed in February of this year. According to the Standard-Journal, the process will come in phases so that utilities can be rerouted to the surrounding businesses – this will take through the end of the year.  Officials from Evangelical say there are no plans at this time to use the property.

POLICE SEEK DIESEL FUEL THIEF

Someone is syphoning gas out of parked trucks in Delaware Township.  According to State Police at Milton, there was a theft of 500 dollars-worth of diesel fuel from a parked truck by someone driving a white Ford service truck model year between 2017 and 2019 with an auxiliary fuel tank on the back.  The theft occurred sometime between Friday, September 30th and Saturday, October 1st,  while the vehicle was parked in the Cleveland Brother’s Equipment parking lot.  If anyone has information call state police.

HOSPITAL EMPLOYEES APPEAL SUIT DISMISSAL

Over 100 former Geisinger employees who were fired over the health system’s implementation of a COVID-19 vaccine and testing policy have appealed the dismissal of their lawsuit in U.S. District Court for the Middle District.  The former employees some of whom received religious exemptions to the health system’s vaccine mandate, named nine issues they are appealing, including their claim that they were threatened with termination if they were to reject three PCR or antigen tests. The former employees, from 14 Geisinger affiliates, sought lost wages and benefits, loss of future pay, compensatory and punitive damages and attorney’s fees.  Federal Judge Matthew Brann had dismissed the case in August.

PA LIQUOR CONTROL BOARD MADE RECORD FUNDS LAST YEAR

The Pennsylvania Liquor Control Board reports that the unaudited financial results for fiscal year 2021-22 reflect a record net income and the first time gross wine and spirits sales topped $3 billion.  Contributions to state and local governments go in part to the General Fund, which finances Pennsylvania’s schools, health and human services programs, law enforcement, and public safety initiatives, among other important public services.  The liquor control board regulates the distribution of beverage alcohol in Pennsylvania, operates 600 wine and spirits stores statewide, and licenses 20,000 alcohol producers, retailers, and handlers. 

SPORT

PIAA District 4
Girls Soccer
 Sullivan County 4      Montgomery 1
S. Williamsport 4        Muncy 2
Troy 2                           Williamson 1
Athens 3                       Wellsboro 2
Boys Soccer
Benton 4             Muncy 0
Williamsport 7   Shamokin 1
Warrior Run 5    Hughesville 2

MLB
Game 1 Orioles 5         Blue Jays 4
Game 2 Blue Jays 5     Orioles 1
Pirates 5              Cardinals 3
Rangers 4            Yankees 2
Astros 3               Phillies 2
Diamondbacks 4 Brewers 2
Guardians 9        Royals 2
Marlins 12          Braves 9
Mets 9                 Nationals 2
Red Sox 6           Rays 3
Cubs 15               Reds 2
MLB News – Manager Mike Matheny and pitching coach Cal Eldred were fired by the Kansas City Royals on Wednesday night, shortly after they finished the season 65-97 with a 9-2 loss to the Cleveland Guardians.NFL
Thursday Night Football Indianapolis is in Denver at 8:15 on Prime Video
NFL Sunday
Giants play the Green Bay Packers 9:30 AM on Sunday from London on NFL Network
Other Sunday games 1pm… Pittsburgh and Buffalo, Dolphins come to play the Jets, Cowboys are in Los Angeles to play the Rams.  Cincinnati is in Baltimore for Sunday Night Football at 8:20 on NBC.

BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS OCTOBER 5, 2022

LYCOMING COUNTY APPROVES HAND RECOUNT OF 2020 BALLOTS

The decision to recount all of the ballots cast in the 2020 general election in Lycoming County was approved by the County Commissioners in a 2-1 vote yesterday, and it will start in January.  One of the state row office votes will also be recounted. According to Penn Live, Commissioners Scott L. Metzger and Tony R. Mussare, voted for the total recount.  The board will meet before the recount January 9th to set rules for the recount, including rules on camera and writing instrument usage and who can observe the count.  Democrat Commissioner Richard Mirabito said approving the recount establishes a very dangerous precedent.

REGIONAL POLICE COMMISSION ESTABLISHED

The newly formed Lycoming Regional Police Commission held their initial meeting this week and elected their governing officers at the Jersey Shore Municipal Building.  According to the Sun Gazette, Sean Simcox was elected chairman and David Kay, vice Chairman.  Erv Rauch was approved as treasurer and Sam Augnst as secretary with Cody Hoover appointed as recording secretary. The group will manage the Lycoming Regional Police Department, including officers from Jersey Shore, and Old Lycoming and Porter Townships. The commission will meet the first Monday of each month at 7:30.

WILLIAMSPORT WOMAN FACES CRUELTY TO ANIMALS CHARGES

A woman who tied a cat to her Park Avenue porch so tightly it was suffocating, is facing third degree felony aggravated cruelty to animals, misdemeanor cruelty and neglect. According to the Sun Gazette,  a neighbor  called police after freeing the cat once and finding it tied up and in distress again a few days later, to the point where it may have died without being helped.  Police arrested 38 year old Lashanda Bullock October 2nd.  Bullock said the cat got itself stuck in the railing.

DMV CLOSED FOR COLUMBUS DAY

PennDOT announced today that all driver license and photo centers, including its full-service center in Harrisburg, will be closed Saturday, October 8, through Monday, October 10, in observance of Columbus Day. Customers may still obtain a variety of driver and vehicle products and services, including all forms, publications and driver training manuals, online through PennDOT’s Driver and Vehicle Services website, www.dmv.pa.gov.   

REVENGE PORN INCIDENT SENDS AGRESSOR TO JAIL

In an act of jealousy, a 22 year old city man sent explicit photos and videos he had made four years prior with a former girlfriend to her current boyfriend in retaliation for her not rekindling the relationship – and that turned out to be a crime.  According to the Sun Gazette, Jordan Zane Bickel is now facing over 150 felony charges for illegal use of a communication device, sharing images without permission, as well as having videos of a person who was a minor at the time they were taken – which is possession of child pornography. Police obtained a search warrant for the Bickel’s cell phone and extracted the videos.   Bickel was arrested Monday and was incarcerated in lieu of 50 thousand dollars bail.

VICTIM SUCKER PUNCHED IN FAMILY DOLLAR

A Williamsport man is in custody after sucker punching a victim so hard at an area Family Dollar store on Memorial Avenue, that his jaw was broken in two places.  According to North Central PA dot com, 48 year old David Evans Braxton attacked the man who was shopping on September 22nd and was later charged with first-degree felony aggravated assault.  The victim first went to UPMC Williamsport, then was transported to Geisinger in Danville for treatment.  Braxton will have a preliminary hearing October 6th and is in jail in lieu of 25 thousand dollars bail.

SUSPECT IN HIGH SPEED CHASE ARRESTED WITH DRUGS

A man from Philadelphia was arrested in South Williamsport after a high speed chase ended in an accident near East Southern Avenue and Main Street last May and he has now been arraigned in District Court. According to the Sun Gazette,  32 year old Elijah Gamon was stopped by police for an expired registration and ultimately drove away from the scene starting a high speed chase that reached speeds of 100 miles per hour on Riverside Drive and Southern Avenue.  After the crash, Gamon was apprehended and was found to allegedly have marijuana, crack cocaine and a large amount of cash.  Gamon has been released from jail on 10 thousand dollars bail, and faces charges for felony fleeing police and drug charges.

ANNUAL SHIKELLAMY BONFIRE THIS SUNDAY

Members of the senior class will participate in preparing for the traditional Shikellamy School District bonfire that will be held Sunday at 6pm in the campus stadium for the first time in two years due COVID-19.  According to the Daily Item, the annual homecoming game will once again feature the traditional bonfire,  that had to be held at Spyglass winery the past two years.  Other activities include a performance by the Braves Marching Band and several flag football games with guest referees including Ron Pratt, Mike Hoover and Ron Marshall. The event is free and open to the public with concessions available at the stadium. The bonfire is set to be lit around 8pm.

SPORTS

PIAA District 4
Boys Soccer
Wellsboro 7                    NE Bradford 1
Montoursville 3             Juniata Christian 1
Girls Soccer
Lewisburg 5                   Williamsport 0
Central Columbia 7       Warrior Run 0
Shamokin 2                             Central Mountain 1
Montoursville 4             Selinsgrove 1

MLB
Yankees 5            Rangers 4 Game 1
Rangers 3             Yankees 2 Game 2
Mets 4                  Nationals 2 Game 1
Mets 8                  Nationals 0 Game 2
Guardians 5                   Royals 3
Cardinals 8                     Pirate 7
Braves 2               Marlins 1
Reds 3                  Cubs 2
Red Sox 6            Rays 0
Astros 10             Phillies 0
Blue Jays and Orioles were postponed due to rain

New York Yankees slugger Aaron Judge has hit his 62nd home run of the 2022 MLB season, setting the single-season record for the American League.  The historic home run moved him past Maris, who held the previous Junior Circuit record with 61 home runs in 1961. Judge joins Babe Ruth and Maris as the only AL players to hit 60 or more home runs in a season.

MLB Post Season Game Schedule
Wildcard games on ESPN start Friday with Game 3 Sunday if necessary.
October 11 – American league division series Game 1 on PBS
                    National league division series Game 1 on Fox or FS 1
– The first game of the World Series is Friday, October 28
NBA PreSeason
Knicks 117                     Pistons 96
Timberwolves 121         Heat 111
Pelicans 129                   Bulls 125
Jazz 118                         Trailblazers 101

BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS OCTOBER 4, 2022

ACCUSED ACCOMPLICE HAS HOMICIDE CHARGES DROPPED

A York County woman who was jailed for her accomplice-role in a fatal shooting in August at the Liberty interchange of Route 15, had charges of conspiracy to commit homicide dropped in district court this week. According to the Sun Gazette, 32 year old Denissa Alvarez-Matias still faces charges of endangering the welfare of children and hindering apprehension in county court, for which bail has been set at 150 thousand dollars. State police originally charged that Alvarez-Matias was an accomplice to 33 year old Leonardo Pagan-Acevedo when he allegedly fatally shot Jesus Alicia-Santiago during a child custody exchange August 26th.  According to an autopsy Alicia-Santiago was struck by one bullet to his spleen.  He was found deceased in a vehicle at a convenience store just off the interstate in Liberty.

JUDGE DECIDING ON CHARGES AGAINST SUNBURY MAN

A Northumberland County Judge has held off on a decision to determine whether to dismiss a defense Petition for Writ of Habeas Corpus in the case of 31 year old Benton Ross of Sunbury.  According to North Central PA dot com,  Ross is accused of shooting Brian Cunningham in august of 2020 at a Mile Post Road residence.  He faces felony attempted homicide, two counts of aggravated assault and discharging a firearm inside a structure.  Ross posted 100 thousand dollars cash bail in June of 2021.  Northumberland County President Judge Charles Saylor says he will issue a decision at a later date.

STATE POLICE INVESTIGATE IDENTITY THEFT IN MONTOUR COUNTY

An Anthony Township man says his identity was stolen so the suspect could use it to apply for unemployment.  According to the Daily Item, an unidentified 33 year old male victim from Danville reported the problem to state police at Milton last Thursday morning. Police have now opened an investigation in Montour County.

CUTTER’S DIRECTOR OF SMILES TO BE HONORED AT BANQUET

Rashan West-Bey, the Williamsport Crosscutters Director of Smiles, will be honored by the West Branch Valley Sports Hall of Fame as the Volunteer of the Year during the annual Hall of Fame banquet at the Genetti Hotel & Suites in Williamsport, on Sunday, November 13.  West-Bey joined the Cutters during the 2003 season and has been a fixture at Historic Bowman Field ever since. According to Gabe Sinacropi, VP of Marketing for the Williamsport Crosscutters,  Rhashan is recognized everywhere he goes and is easily the most popular person in the ballpark.  Cutters fans are invited to come to the induction banquet. $35 tickets are available e-mailing [email protected]

SOME CHARGES DISMISSED FOR FORMER WASD TEACHER

A former Williamsport Area teacher facing two cases of unlawful contact with a minor, has had all charges in one case dismissed.  According to the Sun Gazette, a district judge determined there was insufficient evidence in the case of Christopher Yoder who a judge said was involved in an inappropriate conversation – but not to the level of criminality.  Yoder does still face statutory sexual assault and other charges from his alleged relationship with a female student during the 2011-2012 school year.

SOLAR ARRAY TO BE DEDICATED THIS WEEK

Bucknell University has a 1.76-megawatt solar array and they will dedicate it later this week.  According to a statement by the school, Encore Renewable Energy of Burlington Vermont will be at the event Thursday at 2pm to be held at the project site off Smoketown Road between the Bucknell Golf Club and the Art Barn Complex.  The array will supply up to seven percent of the University’s electricity and is projected top allow the university to be carbon neutral by 2030.  The school says they will pay the East Buffalo Township property taxes on the site.

CONSULTING FIRM TO SEEK FUNDING FOR LAW ENFORCEMENT

The same consulting firm seeking funding for the recently discussed levee project in Williamsport, is also seeking funding to assist in justice and law enforcement funding.  According to the Sun Gazette, Keller Partners and Company of Washington DC, is working with the City to seek grant potential through the Justice and Mental Health Collaboration Program or Connect and Protect – also known as part of JMHCP.  Overall the millions of dollars in potential funding sought, can be used by the bureau of police for staffing, infrastructure and covering the costs of programs that lower the amount of violent crime in our city. 

MORE BREAST CANCER AWARENESS ACTIVITIES

UPMC is going pink this month for Breast Cancer Awareness, by lighting the hospital buildings pink, asking staff to wear pink, offering educational programs as well as discounted  mammograms in three locations around north central Pennsylvania;  Williamsport, Muncy and Wellsboro.  Around town, you will see UPMC sponsor local sporting teams’ Pink Out games, and there will be a Pretty in Pink event held by “Renew You” a UPMC women’s group, Thursday evening October 13th at the Holiday Inn in Williamsport, that will include health screenings, shopping, beauty experts and other women’s activities.  Get details at UPMC.me/prettyinpink

SPORTS

PIAA District 4 – Girls Soccer
Muncy 18                     CMVT 0
Wellsboro 1                  Jersey Shore 1 (2OT)
Southern Columbia 9  Montgomery 1
Williamson 3                Sullivan County 1
Shikellamy 4                Danville 1

Boys Soccer
South Williamsport 2  North Penn-Liberty 1
East Juniata 3               St. Joseph’s Catholic 0
Danville 3                     Central Columbia 1
Line Mountain 2                   Shamokin 1
Selinsgrove 5               Midd-West 3
Southern Columbia 2 Hughesville 1


NFL Monday night football
49ers 24              Rams 9
Thursday night Football Colts and Broncos @ 815 on Prime Video

MLB
Royals 5              Guardians 2 /10
Pirates 3              Cardinals 2
Marlins 4            Braves 0
Reds 3                 Cubs 1
Blue Jays 5         Orioles 1
Yankees 3           Rangers 1
Red Sox 4           Rays 3
Phillies 3             Astros 0
Nationals and Mets were postponed due to rain with a doubleheader today.
The Phillies have clinched their first postseason berth since 2011 with a 3-0 win over the Houston Astros. Game 1 of the wild-card series will be Friday night.

NBA preseason
76ers 127            Nets 108
Grizzlies 109      Magic 97
Thunder 112       Nuggets 101
Kings 105           Lakers 75
Clippers 102       Trailblazers 97

BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS OCTOBER 3, 2022

EXPLOSIVES TAKEN FROM LOYALSOCK TWP HOME

Police have identified the man who was arrested after a bench warrant on another matter uncovered he had homemade explosive devices inside a Loyalsock Township home.  According to the Sun Gazette,   37 year old Steven Guthrie, formerly of Cogan Station, was being taken into custody by a fugitive taskforce team last week when the officers saw the devices that were functioning weapons of mass destruction they said.  The State police Hazardous device  and explosives unit removed the explosives from the home on Cemetery Street Wednesday.  No charges have been filed yet in the case, as the investigation is ongoing.

ANOTHER WASD TEACHER CHARGED

A third Williamsport Area High School Teacher has been charged with inappropriate contact with a student.  According to the Sun Gazette, 52 year old Michelle Pulizzi had a relationship with a student for four months in 2018.  State police said the victim, who was also a confidential informant, received sexually explicit images and messages, allegedly from Pulizzi.  She was charged with third-degree sexual contact with a student and has been released on 75 thousand dollars bail.  Pulizzi will appear for her preliminary hearing October 13th.

CONSULTANT HELPS WILLIAMSPORT FUND LEVEE SYSTEM REPAIR

A Washington based consulting firm is assisting the city of Williamsport secure a possible 8 million dollars in funding for various projects taking place on the levee system.  According to North Central PA dot com, Keller Partners & Company gave a quarterly presentation at the City Council meeting this week and say they expect to see a bill passed through the House Appropriations Committee in Washington by the end of the year that could make these funds available. In addition, the Army Corps of Engineers told council they will begin the levee risk assessment to start the process of bringing the levee system into compliance within the next couple of weeks.

GEISINGER TURNS PINK FOR BREAST CANCER AWARENESS

Geisinger Hospitals will be lit pink in October in honor of Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Geisinger is working to raise awareness about the importance of early breast cancer detection. The pink lights also honor the millions of patients and families affected by the disease.  Breast health experts at the hospital say most lives are saved with annual mammograms beginning at age 40, but those with a family history of breast cancer should screen earlier. For patients who are underinsured, a free government-based program can assist in covering the cost of the vital health screening.

POLICE ID BODY FOUND IN MONTGOMERY

A body was found off of Route 54 near Montgomery Friday morning and the Lycoming County Coroner has made an identification.  According to the Sun Gazette, 34 year old Brett Diehl was found deceased in the yard at 37 School House Road. State Police were called to the scene about 7:45 am Friday where they shut down the roadway from Route 54 almost to Schnee Avenue for police to process the area. No other details have been released about the circumstances surrounding the case at this time.

PRISON GUARD ATTACKED IN CLINTON COUNTY

A guard was attacked by a prisoner early last month at the Clinton County  Correctional Facility while he was being fitted with a suicide smock.  According to North Central PA dot com, 23 year old Nathaniel Lee Baney became combative at the Pine Mountain Road facility and punched and strangled a guard, breaking his glasses before other officers could free him.  Baney was charged with aggravated assault and other charges.  He is incarcerated in lieu of 100 thousand dollars bail with a preliminary hearing scheduled for tomorrow morning.

OVERNIGHT GUARDRAIL WORK THIS WEEK

There will be a PennDOT Guard rail project in Northumberland County this week that may cause overnight delays in Point Township.  Watch for crews to be on Route 11 between Northumberland and Montour County between 7pm and 5am this Monday through Friday.  Crews will have alternating lane restrictions in place in the active work zone.

FLAGS LOWERED FOR PA CHIEF JUSTICE

Flags were ordered to half-staff Saturday by Governor Tom Wolf, to honor  74 year old Pennsylvania Supreme Court Chief Justice Max Baer who died at his home in Pittsburgh on Friday.  According to a statement by the state court system, Baer was a Duquesne University Law School graduate, and elected to the Allegheny County Court of Common Pleas in 1989.  He was first elected to the state’s highest court in 2003, and became chief justice last year after Chief Justice Thomas G. Saylor retired.  Taking his place will be Justice Debra Todd, who is the longest continuously serving member and the first woman to serve as chief justice of the state Supreme Court.

SPORTS

NFL
Chiefs 41             Buccaneers 31
Giants 20             Bears 12
Eagles 29              Jaguars 21
Jets 24                  Steelers 20
Bills 23                 Ravens 20
Packers 27           Patriots 24
Vikings 28           Saints 25
Cowboys 25         Commanders 10

NFL News
A spectator at Sunday’s game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and New York Jets died following a fall on an escalator at Acrisure Stadium. According to Pittsburgh Public Safety a male spectator fell around 4:45 p.m., shortly after the end of New York’s 24-20 victory over the Steelers. Paramedics transferred the victim, whose identity has no t been released, to the hospital in critical condition where he died shortly after.


MLB
Braves 5               Mets 3
Rockies 4              Dodgers 1
Pirate 7                 Cardinals 5
Guardians 7                   Royals 5
Blue Jays 6                     Red Sox 3
Phillies 8              Nationals 1
Orioles 3              Yankees 1

NBA preseason matchups
Golden State Warriors 104               Washington Wizards 95
Boston Celtics 134                            Charlotte Hornets 93 in the NBA Japan games
Preseason NBA Tonight
76ers are in Brooklyn to play the Nets at 7:30 on NBA TV
NASCAR
Chase Elliot earned the automatic berth into the third round of the Cup Series playoffs yesterday at Talladega Alabama, followed by Ryan Blaney , Michael McDowell,  Ross Chastain, and then Denny Hamlin, fifth. 
The elimination playoff race this coming Sunday is at The Roval at Charlotte Motor Speedway. The field will be trimmed from 12 to eight.

NHL NEWS
The Seattle Kraken officially have named a mascot and it was certainly not the one hockey fans were expecting.  On Saturday, during the team’s preseason game against the Vancouver Canucks, the Kraken announced their newest mascot “Buoy”, a sea troll inspired by a Seattle landmark, the Fremont Troll.

BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS OCTOBER 2, 2022

PA SKILL THEFT SUSPECT STILL AT LARGE

An unidentified man is still at large who stole more than 34 thousand dollars from a game of skill machine in Williamsport.  According to North Central PA dot com, State Police at Montoursville say the theft happened at the Nittany Minit Mart on East third Street on August 16th at around 11pm.   Authorities believe the man who had an Hispanic accent and used keys to gain access to the machine and had unknown accomplices to complete the theft.  If you know anything about the incident, call State Police.   570-368-5700

JUNIATA COUNTY WOMAN DIES IN MOTORCYCLE ACCIDENT

A woman from East Waterford, PA died in a motorcycle accident in Snyder County this week.  According to State Troopers and the Snyder County Coroner, 41 year old Janet Swartwood was traveling on Route 35 near Cherry Hill Road around 2:30pm September 26th, lost control of the motorcycle, going off the road and hitting a tree.  The coroner says the Juniata County woman died from her injuries at the scene of the crash

SPYGLASS CAN HAVE SOME SUMMER CAMPING

A Northumberland County judge ruled that Spyglass Ridge Winery can have camping at their facility during special events even though it will not be considered a permanent campsite location.  According to the Daily Item, the Rockefeller Township winery went to court with the township supervisors to appeal an earlier zoning hearing decision that kept campers from their place during the summer concert series based on a 40 year old ordnance. The owners of the winery say they just want to  provide their patrons with a safe place to park on their property.

FLAGS LOWERED FOR PA SUPREME COURT JUSTICE

Flags were ordered to half staff yesterday by Governor Tom Wolf, to honor  74 year old Pennsylvania Supreme Court Chief Justice Max Baer who died at his home in Pittsburgh on Friday.  According to a statement by the state court system, Baer was first elected to the state’s highest court in 2003, and became chief justice last year after Chief Justice Thomas G. Saylor retired.  A Duquesne University Law School graduate, Baer was elected to the Allegheny County Court of Common Pleas in 1989.  Taking his place will be Justice Debra Todd, who is the longest continuously serving member, the first woman to serve as chief justice of the state Supreme Court.

LEVEE SYSTEM FUNDING COULD BE ON THE WAY

A Washington based consulting firm is assisting the city of Williamsport secure a possible 8 million dollars in funding for various projects taking place on the levee system.  According to North Central PA dot com, Keller Partners & Company gave a quarterly presentation at the City Council meeting this week and say they expect to see a bill passed through the House Appropriations Committee in Washington by the end of the year that could make these funds available. In addition, the Army Corps of Engineers told council they will begin the levee risk assessment to start the process of bringing the levee system into compliance within the next couple of weeks.

GEISINGER LIGHTS UP PINK FOR OCTOBER

Geisinger Hospitals will be lit pink in October in honor of Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Geisinger is working to raise awareness about the importance of early breast cancer detection. The pink lights also honor the millions of patients and families affected by the disease.  Breast health experts at the hospital say most lives are saved with annual mammograms beginning at age 40, but those with a family history of breast cancer should screen earlier. For patients who are underinsured, a free government-based program can assist in covering the cost of the vital health screening.

SPORTS


NCAA football
Penn State over Northwestern 17-7
Ohio State beat Rutgers 49-10
Michigan over Iowa 27-14
Georgia Tech beat Pitt 26-21.

NFL football today
Vikings and the Saints play at 9:30 AM this morning in London on NFL network
1 o’clock for the other matchups between the Commanders and Cowboys in Dallas the Bears vs the Giants, the Jaguars come to Philly to play the Eagles, Jets vs Steelers, the Bills are in Baltimore to play the Ravens.
Chiefs and the Buccaneers will play 8:20 PM tonight in Tampa on NBC.

Monday Night Football Rams and the 49er’s 8:15 kick off on ESPN

NFL News
The unaffiliated neurotrauma consultant involved in clearing Miami Dolphins quarterback Tua Tagovailoa during last Sunday’s game against the Buffalo Bills has been fired. Multiple sources said the firing came after it was found the consultant made “several mistakes” in his evaluation. TagovaiLoa was diagnosed with a concussion and discharged hours later; he flew back to South Florida with the team early Friday morning.

NASCAR
Yellawood 500 at Talladega Super Speedway – Prerace coverage starts Sunday at 2pm on the Twin Valley’s Talk Radio Network or WILQ’s HD3

BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS OCTOBER 1, 2022

CORONER IDENTIFIES BODY OF MAN FOUND IN MONTGOMERY

A body was found off of Route 54 near Montgomery yesterday morning and the Lycoming County Coroner has made an identification.  According to the Sun Gazette, 34 year old Brett Diehl was found deceased in the yard at 37  School House Road. State Police were called to the scene about 7:45 am Friday where they shut down School House Road from Route 54 almost to Schnee Avenue for police to process the area. No other details have been released about the circumstances surrounding the case at this time.

THIRD TEACHER AT WASD ARRESTED FOR INAPPROPRIATE CONTACT

A third Williamsport Area High School Teacher has been charged with inappropriate  contact with a student.  According to the Sun Gazette, 49 year old Michelle Pulizzi had a relationship with a student for four months in 2018.  State police said the victim, who was also a confidential informant, received sexually explicit images and messages, allegedly from Pulizzi.  She was charged with third-degree sexual contact with a student and has been released on 75 thousand dollars bail.  Pulizzi will appear for her preliminary hearing October 13th.

HUNG JURY IN 2020 SHOOTING CASE

A man who fled Williamsport to avoid apprehension in October of 2020 after allegedly firing a shot from the sidewalk into a home on Louisa Street that killed a mother of 4 was found guilty of flight, but the jury was hung on the criminal homicide charges on Friday . According to the Sun Gazette, the jury for 40 year old Antwan McClain could not reach a verdict on the charges of criminal homicide and aggravated assault in the shooting death of 31 year old Jimia Alston.  After McClain ran to avoid being arrested, US Marshals Service took him into custody December 10th 2020.

ANOTHER SUSPECT ARRESTED IN SUNBURY BAR SHOOTING CASE

Another person has been arrested after last weekend’s shooting at a Sunbury bar.  According to North Central PA dot com, 23 year old Manuel Santos of Sunbury was arrested for not giving information to police in the case of the fatal shooting of 33 year old Joseph Rice, also of Sunbury.  42 year old Randy Easton fled the area after the incident that happened about 2:30 am last Sunday, is being charged with homicide, and has been denied bail.  Easton’s girlfriend, Lis Gebhart of White Deer is also charged with failing to report Easton’s whereabouts.  They both were arrested at a Lewisburg hotel last Monday.  Police say Santos is also in violation of parole.

BLOOMSBURG FAIR WRAPS UP TODAY

It’s the final day of the 167th Bloomsburg State Fair!  Grange exhibits open at 9am in the agriculture building at one of the east coat’s largest livestock displays.  Free entertainment all day today starting at 9a with the Karen Gronsky school of dance.  Tonight enjoy the Pro Street Truck and Tractor pull in the Weis Markets grandstand and Amusements of America will run from 11am til 9pm all day today.  Parking is just five dollars.  Visit the Backyard broadcasting tent tonight from 5 til 8pm on the at 2nd Street and Avenue B.

SPORTS

PIAA District 4
HS Football
Williamsport 48         Central Mountain 16
Jersey Shore 65                       Executive Education Academy 12
Southern Columbia 34 Montoursville 16
Muncy 48                   Columbia Montour vo-tech 16
Mifflinburg 19                        Selinsgrove 0
Milton 47                                Hughesville 7
Canton 51                               Wyalusing 13
Shamokin 57               Shikellamy 27
Bloomsburg 28                        Warrior run 14
Danville 51                  Lewisburg 0
Backyard Broadcasting Game of the week
Loyalsock 48              Central Columbia 0

PIAA District 4
HS Football Saturday
North Penn Mansfield heads to Cowanesque Valley tonight for a 7 PM game

HS Football News
Quarterback Arch Manning broke his high school’s records for career passing yards and touchdowns last night, marks previously held by his uncles, Eli and Peyton Manning.  Arch Manning broke Eli’s career passing record at Isidore Newman School in New Orleans, along with Peyton’s record of 93 career touchdowns after tossing five in the first half.  Manning is the No. 2 prospect in the 2023 class, and is a 6-foot-3, 204-pound recruit who is the son of Cooper Manning and the grandson of Archie Manning.
NASCAR
Yellawood 500 at Talladega Super Speedway – Prerace coverage starts Sunday at 2pm on the Twin Valley’s Talk Radio Network or WILQ’s HD3
NASCAR NEWS
Alex Bowman suffered a concussion last week after  a tangle in Texas. Noah Gragson will drive the No. 48 Chevrolet.

MLB
Phillies 5 Nationals 1 – in Game one.  Game two was postponed till today due to rain
 Orioles 2 Yankees 1
Guardians 6 Royals 3
Braves 5 Mets 2
Cardinals 2 Pirates 1
Dodgers 10 Rockies 1
some NCAA football matchups today
Northwestern at Penn State at 3:30 on ESPN
Georgia Tech is at Pitt
Temple will be at Memphis on ESPNU at noon,
Rutgers is at Ohio State,
West Virginia is it Texas at 7:30 PM tonight on FS1

BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS SEPTEMBER 30, 2022

WILLIAMSPORT SHOOTING VICTIM IDENTIFIED

A mother of a young child was identified as the victim in the shooting that happened Wednesday at a West Fourth Street apartment in Williamsport.  According to the Sun Gazette, the Lycoming County Coroner said the victim is 41 year old single mother, Heather Cohick, who was shot early Wednesday morning in her first floor apartment with her 2-year old son in a room nearby.  He was not injured.  Police say this is the third homicide in the city since May and have not made any arrests. The shooting August 21st on Newberry Street that injured two 15 year olds is suspected to be gang related.

FINAL VOTE ON POLICE REGIONILIZATION

A 22 officer Police Regionalization plan to replace the Tiadaghton Valley Regional Police Department and Old Lycoming Police Department is set to be effective January 1st 2023, after The Old Lycoming Township supervisors voted 2-1 in favor of police regionalization Wednesday.  According to North Central PA dot com, the sometimes contentious meeting at Old Lycoming Volunteer Fire Station resulted in the  last of the three charter municipalities approving the charter agreement to setup the Lycoming Regional Police Department. Porter Township and Jersey Shore approved their agreement earlier this month.

MONTOUR COUNTY JOB FAIR

There will be a PennDOT job fair in Danville Thursday October 13th for people who are interested in working with the department in Montour County. The event will be at the Mausdale Construction Office on Old Valley School Road for Transportation Equipment Operators and trainees with a current CDL. On-the-spot applications will take place from 4 til 6pm and some positions also require a current medical examiner certificate. For more information, please call 570-387-4250.

PROCEEDS FROM CROSSCUTTERS GAMES GIVE BACK

The proceeds from all the Williamsport Crosscutter’s 50/50 raffles during the 2022 season were presented to the American Rescue Workers this week.  According to Gabe Sinacropi, VP of Marketing for the Cutters, the check for 7,626 dollars comes from the Crosscutters and the Pitch In Charitable Foundation, a non-profit foundation of professional baseball teams.  In six seasons, the Williamsport Crosscutters have donated over $39,000 to the American Rescue Workers.

FATHER OF ACCUSED MURDERER WANTS HIS CHARGES DROPPED

The father of Echo Butler, one of the two Williamsport women accused of starving their two young daughters to death in 2021, wants the charges against him in the case dismissed.  According to the Sun Gazette, the attorney for 54 year old Ronald Butler, accused of endangering the welfare of children and obstruction in child abuse, argued that Butler had no duty to care for the girls. The Lycoming County District Attorney cited that Butler and his wife did care for the girls when their mother wasn’t home.  Butler’s wife, Michelle, faces first-degree murder charges and is expected to submit a guilty plea in the case next month. The bodies of the two young girls were found buried on Butler’s Property in Hepburn Township.

MASTRIANO VISITS POTTER COUNTY

The Pennsylvania GOP gubernatorial candidate, Doug Mastriano, was in Potter County this week and was met by the public there with overwhelming support.  According to the Sun Gazette, Mastriano along with his wife Rebbeca, who is known as “Rebbie”, spoke at Larry’s Sports Center on Route 6 in Galeton with the event also sponsored by Free PA of Potter County, and The Potter County Republican Party. The Mastriano’s left by bus and made stops in Tioga and Clinton Counties. Pennsylvanians are encouraged to register to vote before October 20th. 

JERSEY SHORE SOLAR FARM CONSTRUCTION APPROVED

The Nippenose Township Planning Commission hosted representatives from solar panel company, Doral LLC at their most recent meeting to discuss the construction of a large utility grade solar farm near Jersey Shore.  According to the Sun Gazette, community members who attended the presentation had questions about noise, glare, tax increases and traffic increasing during construction around Route 44.    Council approved the project, provided community provisions are met.  After permits are secure in the next year, construction of the facility that will generate 200 megawatts of power to be sold back to energy companies, should begin.

SUNBURY SENIOR HEALTH FAIR

30 vendors will be on hand today for the Senior Health Fair at the Susquehanna Valley Mall hosted by State Representative Lynda Culver of  Sunbury.  According to a press release, those in attendance will be able to receive a flu or COVID shot and other health screening s will b available.  Culver says to bring your insurance card to the event that will be from 10am til 1pm Friday.  The Representative’s district office is in Sunbury on Arch St., and if you have questions about the health fair or any other issue, call 570-286-5885.

SPORTS

P I-AA District 4 Football Thursday  
Troy 45 Wellsboro 3

HS Football Week 6

CENTRAL COLUMBIA – LOYALSOCK

(BYB GAME OF THE WEEK)

WILLIAMSPORT – CENTRAL MOUNTAIN

MONTOURSVILLE – SOUTHERN COLUMBIA

COLUMBIA MONTOUR VO TECH – MUNCY

HUGHESVILLE – MILTON

EXECUTIVE EDUCATION ACADEMY – JERSEY SHORE

BLOOMSBURG – WARRIOR RUN

LEWISBURG – DANVILLE

MIDD-WEST – MOUNT CARMEL

SELINSGROVE – MIFFLINBURG

SHIKELLAMY – SHAMOKIN

NFL
Bengals 27 Dolphins 15
NFL Miami Dolphins quarterback  Tua Tago vai loa was taken to a local hospital with head and neck injuries suffered on a second-quarter sack in Thursday night’s game against the Cincinnati Bengals.  It was reported shortly before halftime that he was conscious and had all movement. He  was expected to travel back to Miami with the team.


MLB
Red Sox 5            Orioles 3
Cubs 2                  Phillies 0
Guardians 2                   Rays 1
White Sox 4         Twins 3  
Tigers 10              Royals 3
Marlins 4              Brewers 2
Dodgers 5             Padres 2
Mariners 10                   Rangers 9 in 11 innings
Giant 6                 Rockies 4

NASCAR
Yellawood 500 at Talladega Super Speedway – Prerace coverage starts Sunday at 2pm on the Twin Valley’s Talk Radio Network or WILQ’s HD3

NASCAR NEWS
Alex Bowman will miss Sunday’s NASCAR Cup Series race at Talladega Superspeedway with a concussion that the Hendrick Motorsports driver apparently suffered last week at Texas. Noah Gragson will drive the No. 48 Chevrolet. Bowman is now the second driver sidelined with a concussion suffered in a crash of NASCAR’s new Next Gen car.

BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS SEPTEMBER 29, 2022

SHOOTING NEAR PENN COLLEGE SENDS ONE TO JAIL

A shooting involving a Penn College police officer occurred around noon at the 1000 block of Vine Avenue yesterday. The disturbance drew Penn College officers since the location is close to campus.  According to the Sun Gazette, 39 year old Tyree Cleveland who is from Berks County allegedly broke into the apartment, threatening the woman who lived there.  When police arrived, Cleveland was outdoors, disobeyed police and drew his weapon, firing several times, missing the officer but hitting the outside of a Penn College dorm and a police cruiser.  Cleveland fled on foot and  was apprehended at West 4th and Park Streets.  He was arraigned on felony attempted homicide, aggravated assault, a convicted felon not to possess a firearm and other charges.  He was remanded to Lycoming County Prison on no bail. 

THREE NORTHUMBERLAND RESIDENTS INDICTED IN FEDERAL COURT

Three people from Northumberland County, have been indicted in federal court for charges related to the distribution of controlled substances resulting in death.  According to a press release from the FBI, 36 year old Darryl Elliot of Sunbury, and 34 year old Heather Carper of Northumberland, 34 year old Steven Pierro of Selinsgrove conspired to distribute fentanyl and methamphetamine resulting in the overdose of 38 year old Moses J Fahenstock of Lancaster, PA in a Lewisburg hotel earlier this year.  Penn Live reports that if the group is  found guilty, they face a mandatory minimum prison sentence of 20 years. Carper is free on bail and also faces drug and identity theft charges in Northumberland County.

DCNR LOOKING FOR VOLUNTEERS

There are two volunteer positions through the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources available on the Trails Advisory Committee for 2023. DCNR is looking for individuals who are creative trail enthusiasts, one to represent h orseback riders and one to represent the members of the committee at large.   The 20-member, DCNR-appointed committee helps develop a statewide land and water trail network to facilitate recreation, transportation, and healthy lifestyles.  The newly appointed volunteers will serve a 3 year term and can submit letters of interest by October 31 to [email protected].

FREE DIABETIC EYE EXAMS THIS MONTH AND NEXT

There will be free diabetic eye exams October  7th and 21st and November 11th, from 1:00 to 4:30 p.m. at the John M. Wenner Building, Williamsport.  UPMC in North Central Pa  says people with diabetes are at risk of developing eye abnormalities that affect their vision, called diabetic retinopathy  and are encouraged to make a free appointment.  Secure an exam by calling 570-326-7850 and mention free diabetic eye exams when scheduling.  A yearly dilated eye exam can help prevent this vision loss in at risk patients.

WOMAN SHOT IN HER FOURTH STREET APARTMENT

A woman in Williamsport was killed by a gunman Wednesday evening in her apartment at the 800 block of West Fourth Street.  According to the Sun Gazette, city police are investigating the scene and developing leads, but there is no known motive for the shooting and the suspect is in police custody.  The Lycoming County Coroner’s office was on the scene yesterday after 6:30pm and assisted with the investigation.  Police say this incident is not related to the other attempted shooting at a Penn College officer that occurred on Vine Avenue in Williamsport earlier on Wednesday.

MAN CHARGED AFTER LYING ON GUN APPLICATION

A Beaver Springs man with a prior domestic violence conviction is facing new felony charges of providing a false statement after lying on an application to buy a gun in Union County.  According to North Central PA dot com, 48 year old Brian Swartzlander attempted to purchase a gun at Wildwood Precision Guns & Ammo in Limestone Township in November of 2020 and also completed forms to transfer a gun to his name stating that he had never been convicted in court of a misdemeanor of domestic violence, however state police at Milton say the application was instantly denied since Swartzlander had served time for  a domestic violence simple assault charge in 2004. He will have a preliminary hearing October 4th.

MAN ARRESTED FOR MAKING BOMBS IN LOYALSOCK TOWNSHIP

A man who allegedly was building homemade bombs in his Loyalsock Township home was taken into custody yesterday after the nearby neighborhood homes were evacuated and the explosives were removed from the home on Cemetery Street.  According to the Sun Gazette, suspicious devices were seen inside the home just north of Rural avenue and police were alerted.  They had a bench warrant for the occupant of the home and arrived after 10:30am.  Specially trained officers from the Hazardous Devices and Explosives Unit removed the suspicious items including a powder substance and fuses.  The identity of the suspect, who police say did not reside at the home, has not been released, but he is in custody and police are investigating.

ALCOHOL TO BE SERVED AT BEAVER STADIUM

The Penn State Board of Trustees last week, approved the sale of alcohol in Beaver Stadium and it will be available during the home game with Northwestern this Saturday October 1st.  Patrons will be able to buy beer after obtaining a wrist band, following a scan of their ID by staff. There will be a two 16 oz beer cashless-purchase maximum, with no alcohol being sold after the third quarter, and there will be no alcohol permitted out of the stadium.  Previously, alcohol was only sold in club and suite areas of the stadium and ice arena.

SPORTS

PIAA District 4
Girls Soccer
Montoursville 6             Central Mountain 0
Muncy 7                        Montgomery 0
Sullivan County 4                   Millville 3

Boys Soccer
Warrior Run 8               Montoursville 1
Selinsgrove 6                 Shikellamy 4
Jersey Shore 7               Shamokin 0
Wellsboro 4                             Northeast Bradford 2
Central Columbia 3       Hughesville 0
tie – Loyalsock 2            Midd-West 2 (2OT)
Lewisburg 3                             Milton 0
tie – Mifflinburg 0          Southern Columbia 0 (2OT)


MLB
Pirates 4               Reds 3
Guardians 2                   Rays 1
Nationals 3                    Braves 2
Yankees 8            Blue Jays 3
Red Sox 3            Orioles 1
Mets 5                  Marlins 4
Cubs 4                  Phillies 2
MLB News

 New York Yankees star Aaron Judge hit his 61st home run of the season Wednesday night against the Toronto Blue Jays, tying Roger Maris’ American League record.

It took Maris until Oct. 1, the final game of the 1961 season, to hit his 61st, which broke Babe Ruth’s single-season mark of 60 home runs set in 1927

NFL Tonight
Miami is in Cincinnati at 8:15 on Prime Video
NFL Sunday
Washington is in Dallas, Jacksonville is coming to Philadelphia, Jets play the Steelers in Pittsburgh, and the Bills play the Ravens in Baltimore.
NFL News
Because the Vikings will be in London to play the New Orleans Saints, the NFL has selected U.S. Bank Stadium in Minneapolis as the contingency site for Sunday’s game between the Buccaneers and Chiefs. As of now, the game remains scheduled for Raymond James Stadium in Tampa. The Buccaneers, however, have evacuated the area.



Sports Changes due to Hurricane Ian

NCAA Football

South Carolina State plays South Carolina with a rescheduled  early game @7pm Williams-Brice Stadium in Columbia, SC

  • South Florida’s football game with East Carolina has been moved from Tampa to Boca Raton and will be played at 2:30 p.m. Saturday (ESPN+). That game will be played at Florida Atlantic’s stadium. It had originally been scheduled for 6 p.m. Saturday at Raymond James Stadium in Tampa.
  • University of Cental Florida’s home game against SMU, originally scheduled for Saturday at 3:30 p.m. (ESPNU), has now been rescheduled for Sunday at 1 p.m. at FBC Mortgage Stadium in Orlando.
  • Officials at Florida State are optimistic that Saturday’s home football game against Wake Forest in Tallahassee will proceed as scheduled. The Seminoles and the Demon Deacons are set for a 3:30 p.m. kick on ABC.
  • The NHL‘s Tampa Bay Lightning have postponed preseason games against Carolina on Wednesday and Nashville on Thursday. Those games had been scheduled to be played at Amalie Arena in Tampa.
  • The NBA’s Orlando Magic called off practice on what would have been their second day of training camp Wednesday, and said their plans for Thursday were uncertain.

BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS SEPTEMBER 28, 2022

SUNBURY SHOOTER IN CUSTODY

The Sunbury man who is accused of shooting and killing a man outside a bar last Sunday morning, was taken into custody Monday night at the Relax Inn in Lewisburg by Sunbury police and US Marshals Service.  According to the Daily Item, Randy Easton, who fled after a fight between him and 33 year old Joseph Rice who was declared dead at the scene, is being charged with homicide.  Easton’s companion, 45 year old Lisa Gebhart of White Deer will also be charged with hindering the apprehension of a criminal.

MAN STEALS CAR, SCRAPS IT AT RECYCLING CENTER

A man from Williamsport has been charged with two felonies after he stole a car and sold it for scrap at a Lycoming County Recycling company.  According to North Central PA dot com, police say 62 year old Jack Larue Howlett allegedly had the vehicle towed to the facility in October of 2021.  Employees at Staiman Recycling told police they had a title and bill of sale for the vehicle that was scrapped for 100 dollars, but the employee was deceived by Howlett.  He was arraigned on September 15th and was charged with receiving stolen property and theft.  Howlett was released from custody after posting15 thousand dollars unsecured bail.

SOUTHERN LANES OF CSVT PROJECT OPEN TODAY

Today is when traffic patterns will change in the Northern section work zone of the Central Susquehanna Valley Transportation Project.  Southbound traffic that previously used the median crossovers to the northbound side, will shift to the newly completed section of the southbound roadway south of Route 45 in West Chillisquaque Township in Northumberland County. Northbound traffic will remain the same as it is.  Traffic will be down to one lane in each direction,  as the construction in the area continues.

LOSE PARK GROUNDBREAKING STARTS REJUVENATION

The rejuvenation of Lose Park began yesterday with a ceremonial groundbreaking in Williamsport that will see many upgrades at the Memorial Avenue site.  According to the Sun Gazette, Mayor Derek Slaughter was at the event and said the planned improvements for the neighborhood were exciting starting with the park, but that single family homes, rental properties and other housing will be in the community as well.  Expected playground work for the park includes a resurfaced basketball court and more playground equipment as well as new street lights and accessible parking. Funding for local parks comes from the 1993 Keystone fund, derived from the sale of real estate, Lose Park is one of 25 hundred parks benefiting from 250 million dollars in grants.

FIRE IN LOYALSOCK DISPLACES TWO

An elderly Loyalsock Township woman and her son were displaced by a fire that began about 10:30 am Tuesday morning.  According to the Sun Gazette, Louise Wurster, her son Dwayne Wurster, and an aide from the Office of Aging were able to escape the burning home that sustained about 100 thousand dollars in heat and smoke damage. Loyalsock Township firefighters were moments away from the home on Becht Road, and responded along with South Williamsport firemen in the new mutual-aid agreement.  Williamsport and Montoursville fire crews also assisted at the scene.  State fire marshals determined an electrical short of a power strip in a bedroom caused the fire.

BLOOMSBURG MAN STEALS WIDOW’S MOTORCYCLE

A Bloomsburg man told police he would rather go to jail rather than return a 1983 Harley Davidson shovelhead motorcycle he took that belonged to the deceased husband of his former girlfriend after their break-up.  According to North Central PA dot com, 55 year old Dale Walter of Barton Street, told police that he was not giving the bike back after the daughter of the woman who owned the missing bike called police about it September 5th explaining that Walter had moved out and there had been a fight over who owned the belongings.  Walter has been charged with felony theft.

BILL INTRODUCED FOR PUBLIC DEFENDER FUNDS

As one of only two states that do not provide state funding for indigent defense, there is a new bill in Pennsylvania that would provide state level funding for the public defender system in the commonwealth.  According to the Keystone State News, the current system has PA counties responsible for public defender funds and as an example for the consequences of this, Luzerne County has now stopped taking new cases because of budget deficiencies.  The executive director of the Public Defenders Association of Pennsylvania says the current system is failing those who need it the most when the Constitution states the government must provide counsel to those who can’t afford it in criminal cases.

NORTHUMBERLAND COUNTY JUDGE TO RETIRE

A Northumberland County judge announced today that he is retiring at the beginning of 2023.  According to a press release, Judge Charles Saylor, announced that he will leave his position as President judge so that he can spend time with his wife and grandchildren.  He says there is enough time for a successor’s name to be placed on the ballot, and fellow judges Jones and Rosini are tenured to the Norry bench until 2025.  Saylor was first elected in 2001 and retained in 2011.

SPORTS

Volleyball
Williamsport 3     Cowanesque Valley 0
Wellsboro 3                   Sayre 1
Williamson 3        Towanda 1
Canton 3              Northeast Bradford 1
North Penn-Liberty 3     Wyalusing 0

MLB
Rays 6                 Guardians 5
Pirates 4              Reds 1
Braves 8              Nationals 2
Red Sox 13         Orioles 9
Marlins 6            Mets 4
Cubs 2                 Phillies 1
Yankees 5           Blue Jays 2 – Giving the Yankees their 20th American League East title last night. It’s their  first divisional pennant for New York since 2019

Girls Soccer
Selinsgrove 2                 Jersey Shore 0
Southern Columbia 1     Warrior Run 0
Shikellamy 2                  Lewisburg 1
Hughesville 2                 Midd-West 0
Central Columbia 8       Mount Carmel 0
Milton 3                         Loyalsock 2
Bloomsburg 4                Mifflinburg 1

Chicago Super-fan, 103 year old Sister Jean was given the honor of throwing out the first pitch ahead of the Chicago Cubs versus Philadelphia Phillies matchup last night. Sister Jean is mostly well known for her loyalty to Loyola University during March Madness.

GOLF NEWS
The controversial LIV Golf circuit has signed many big names and sparked widespread conversation over the last several months and is now nearing a deal to buy air time on Fox Sports.   The deal is still being finalized, according to the report. LIV Golf is five events into its inaugural season, with three more on the way before the end of the year. It will expand to 14 tournaments in 2023.

BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS SEPTEMBER 27, 2022

DOMESTIC ARGUMENT ENDS IN INCARCERATION

Two men were involved in an altercation near a cabin in McHenry Township Saturday that led to one to being taken into custody after he fired a handgun at a truck occupied by the other.  According to the Sun Gazette, Tiadaghton Valley Regional police say Darin McCartan, who is from Berks County, was in a truck driven by his father and allegedly attacked him while they drove along Route 414 near Cammal to their cabin property.  McCartan then got out of the truck and fired gunshots in the air and in the direction of the truck which flattened a tire.  Police say they were informed of these incidents after the fact, but arrested McCartan later at an undisclosed location.  He was charged with aggravated and simple assault and is in Lycoming County Prison in lieu of 85 thousand dollars bail.

TWO LYCO PRISON INMATES HAVE DIED THIS MONTH

Two inmates have died at Lycoming County Prison this month.  According to the Sun Gazette, a news release from the Lycoming County Coroner’s Office reports 32 year old Wayne A Hunter III was taken to UPMC Williamsport after a suicide attempt and was pronounced dead September 21st.  The Lycoming County Commissioners immediately referred the incident to the district attorney’s office.  In another case, inmate 49 year old Joel Kendall was found dead in his cell September 5th.  Kendall’s cause of death is pending toxicology reports and other testing.

CONTRACTOR CHARGED FOR TAKING MONEY AND NOT WORKING

Another contractor is in trouble for taking the money for a job and not doing the work.  According to the Sun Gazette, 37 year old Tyler Baer of Centre Hall has been charged with misdemeanor theft and receiving stolen property after taking over 17 hundred dollars for a roofing project in Muncy and never completing the job.  Police say Baer has been sent a summons to appear before a district judge but the victim has not heard from him in ten months and there has been no attempt to return the money.

BLOOMSBURG FAIR THIS WEEK

The Bloomsburg Fair continues this week through Saturday October 1st.  Tonight on the Weis Markets Grandstand it’s Bullride Mania at 7 or there’s the fiddle contest at the band shell at 6:30. Take the one way or round trip Sky Ride down the main midway of the fair 9am til 10pm, and ride the Amusements of America from 11am til closing.  General Parking is $5 at 980 West Main Street. Come see Backyard Broadcasting on the midway at 2nd St and B Avenue –  Details at Bloomsburg fair dot com.

POLICE ARREST MAN WHO SHOT GUN INSIDE HIS HOUSE

A man from Shamokin Dam is facing felony firearms charges after he shot a handgun inside the first floor of his home and later in the basement on September 17th.  According to State Police, 29 year old Scott Nace initially denied firing a .357 magnum inside the home on Ninth Street, but later confessed and police say he was intoxicated from alcohol.  Nace was charged with three felony counts of discharging a firearm and risking a catastrophe plus other misdemeanors.  He was incarcerated in lieu of 50 thousand dollars bail.

MAN BRANDISHES PROP GUN, FACES CHARGES

Jersey Shore man who pointed a prop gun at a group of people along Railroad St Sunday night has been arrested.  According to the Sun Gazette, police said 23 year old Andrew MacGill had agreed to meet and fight two people, but when there were six people at the location, MacGill allegedly drove past them showing a firearm and left the scene, according to witnesses.  Tiadaghton Valley Region Police obtained a search warrant and found the prop gun from MacGill’s attic.  They took him into custody on charges of terroristic threats and simple assault in lieu of 25 thousand dollars bail.

PA VETERAN’S MONUMENT TO BE REPAIRED AND CLEANED

Potential plans to visit the Pennsylvania Veteran’s Memorial this Veteran’s Day or D-Day could be put on hold since there’s been an announcement that the monument at Fort Indiantown Gap in Annville will be closed 9 months for cleaning beginning October 7th.  According to the Department of Military and Veteran’s Affairs, the closure will address much needed structural repairs that have come about due to long term exposure to the elements.  The memorial dedicated in 2001 and honors the more than one million men and women who have died in service to our country since World War II.  Tax-deductible donations to the Pennsylvania Veterans’ Memorial Trust Fund can be made online at www.donate.dmva.pa.gov   

PUMPKIN KING LIVES IN WESTMORELAND COUNTY

A man from near Pittsburgh has been crowned the 2022 pumpkin king after winning the record for the heaviest pumpkin at an annual festival in Barnesville, Ohio. According to CBS the pumpkin weighed two thousand four hundred and five pounds, and took Erik Gunstrom from Westmoreland County thirty hours a week to nurture into the winning squash.  The heaviest pumpkin ever grown came from Italy and weighed 2,702 pounds.  Barnesville began holding the competition for the heaviest pumpkin in 1964.

SPORTS

PIAA District 4
Boys Soccer
Lewisburg 10                 Central Mountain 0
Shikellamy 6                  Shamokin 0
Montgomery 2               Meadowbrook Christian 1
Hughesville 1                 Mifflinburg 1
Milton 3                         Danville 2
Girls Soccer
South Williamsport 10 Montgomery 0
Montoursville 5             Towanda 0
Danville 3                      Central Mountain 2
Nativity BVM 3             Shamokin 2
Volleyball
Loyalsock 3                   S. Williamsport 2
Galeton 3                       Northern Potter 0
Millersburg 3                 Shamokin 2
Coudersport  3              Wellsboro 0

NFL
Cowboys 23 Giants 16
NFL Thursday
Dolphins come to Ohio play the Bengals 8:15 on Prime Video

NFL this weekend CBS Sunday – Steelers face the Jets at home  and Bills are in Baltimore… No change so far in the Chiefs and Buccaneers game this Sunday at Raymond James Stadium in Tampa, but with Hurricane Ian intensifying, the Tampa Bay region was placed under hurricane warning last night.  The Bucs will leave today to practice at the Miami Dolphins complex through the end of Week 4.

MLB
Pirates 8              Reds 3
Braves 8              Nationals 0
Blue Jays 3         Yankees 2
Orioles 14           Red Sox 8

Upcoming

Nov 17

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