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


BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS JUNE 15, 2022

FATAL I-80 ACCIDENT IN DUBOIS MONDAY

A man from Hughesville was killed and two passengers plus the driver were injured in a crash on I-80 westbound near Dubois Monday.  According to the Sun Gazette, the Jefferson County Coroner pronounced 36 year old Cody Rishel dead at the scene when the car he was in hit a tractor trailer in a construction zone about 5:45pm.  Rishel was the passenger in the front and was wearing a seatbelt.  The three others injured in the wreck were flown to trauma centers for treatment of serious injuries.  State police are expected to release more information as they learn more about the victims.

VICTIM IDENTIFIED IN I-80 CRASH NEAR LOGANTON

The victim in the multiple vehicle crash that shut down I-80 westbound Monday evening near mile marker 186 near Loganton has been identified.  According to the Clinton County Coroner, 55 year old Mirzod Ayubox, of Brooklyn, NY, was the passenger who died in the car that failed to brake for slowing traffic in a construction zone.  Police say that move set off an accident that had a domino effect with four other vehicles, including a fully loaded charter bus.  Emergency crews say one person was injured in the crash.  According to the Sun Gazette, an autopsy will be performed on Ayubox at Mount Nittany Medical Center in State College, but police say he was not wearing his seatbelt.

PENNDOT OFFERS ALTERNATIVE TRANSPORTATION OPTIONS

With high gas prices and busier traffic conditions, PennDOT is encouraging all Pennsylvanians to take a look online at their website and fill out the application to be eligible for alternative public transportation options.  Governor Wolf recently urged the use of the Commonwealth’s Find My Ride site where you can get information about the available transportation options at apply.findmyride.penndot.pa.gov.  Based on 2018 numbers, PennDOT says people who ride public transportation can save, on average over 10 thousand dollars annually.

BLOOMSBURG COUNCIL VOTES TO KEEP GEESE FOR NOW

The geese in Bloomsburg Town Park have been spared for at least a year, after the council there voted to strike down a USDA plan to cull the flock.  According to North Central Pa dot com, council found the latest 7 thousand dollar cost to be substantial and also had resident animal rights groups protesting the potential euthanization plan for months.  In a Monday night meeting it was decided that volunteers will now have to come up with a mitigation plan for goose waste and maintain it.  In a letter to the council from a biologist with the USDA, there were suggestions for managing the goose population that could also benefit all parties, including non-lethal harassment and working with the airport to establish safety protocols involving the human and goose population.

ROCHESTER MAN ARRESTED WITH ILLEGAL CIGARETTES

A man from Rochester New York was stopped by a state trooper along Route 15 in South Williamsport Monday, who had more than 1500 cartons of cigarettes that were not marked with a state stamp. According to the Sun Gazette, 27 year old Mahmood Saleh Mamdoh was arrested after troopers noticed suspicious behavior and got a warrant to search the vehicle, discovering the cache of cigarettes – which were seized – along with marijuana and drug paraphernalia.  Mamdoh was arraigned with District Judge Christian Frey and is in Lycoming County Prison in lieu of 125 thousand dollars bail.

BRADFORD COUNTY CONSTABLE OUSTED FOR CRIMINAL HISTORY

A constable from Sheshequin Township in Bradford County who was elected by one write-in vote last November, has been ordered removed from office after a sordid history of sex abuse has surfaced, and officials there learned he was a Megan’s Law registrant.  According to North Central PA dot com, once Shane Peters was elected complaints began to come in over his criminal history which included what the Bradford County District attorney calls “infamous crimes”, including a conviction of second degree sexual abuse of a minor.

ARSON SUSPECT IN CUSTODY

The cause of a two-alarm fire that broke out in Milton early this month, that brought extensive damage to a home on Myrtle Street, has been determined.  According to Milton police, a juvenile has been charged with arson in the devastating blaze that began about 10pm on June 2nd.  Police have not released the person’s name, only that they interviewed numerous suspects to identify the person of interest they have in custody.  The burned home was occupied by the Berkheimer family the night of the fire and they were able to escape safely.  Fire crews from Union Northumberland and Snyder County responded to the incident. 

PA RENT REBATE DEADLINE EXTENDED

The PA Department of Revenue and Aging has announced that the deadline for applying for rent and property tax rebates for the 2021 tax year for seniors and the disabled, has been extended through December 31st.  Governor Wolf has also proposed a one-time bonus rebate that, if approved by the General Assembly, would double the amount of an applicant’s rebate for this filing period.  The rebate program benefits eligible Pennsylvanians age 65 and older; widows and widowers age 50 and older; and people with disabilities age 18 and older. Get details at mypath.pa.gov.  Distribution of rebates begins July 1st.

SPORTS

Three District 4 teams still alive for their State Championship matchups!
PIAA Varsity Baseball State Class 5A Championship           
Friday
Selinsgrove vs Bethel Park -Medlar Field, Lubrano Park, Penn State University @ 4:30


PIAA Varsity Softball State Championships
TOMORROW

Class 1A    Montgomery vs Dubois Central Catholic –  Beard Field, Nittany Lions Softball Park, Penn State University @11am
Class 3A    Lewisburg vs Avonworth – Beard Field, Nittany Lions Softball Park, Penn State University @1:30pm

MLB
Game 1 Cardinals 3     Pirates 1
Game 2 Cardinals 9     Pirates 1
          Braves 10            Nationals 4
          Marlins 11          Phillies 9
          Yankees 2           Rays 0
          Orioles 6             Blue Jays 5
          Mets 4                 Brewers 0
          Red Sox 6           A’s 1
          Guardians 4        Rockies 3
          Reds 5                 Diamondbacks 3


NHL Tonight  Stanley Cup Final
Lightning vs Avalanche  Game 1 @8pm on ABC and ESPN+ in Denver, CO


NBA Finals Tomorrow
Game 6 in Boston @9pm on ABC  Golden State leads 3-2

BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS JUNE 14, 2022

FATAL ACCIDENT SHUTS DOWN I-80 WEST

It was a multiple vehicle rear-end accident that shut down I-80 westbound last night before 7pm in Greene Township about a mile from the Loganton exit 185.  According to State Police, in the area of the construction zone warning near mile marker 186.6, a driver from Brooklyn New York rear-ended the vehicle in front of them as a result of slowing down from construction traffic, that vehicle was pushed into a fully loaded commercial bus with 55 passengers, which crashed into the truck in front of them and that vehicle hit the 5th one in front of them.  The driver from New York was the person who Clinton County Coroner pronounced dead at the scene, no word from police yet on their identity, but troopers say the victim was not wearing a seatbelt.  Traffic was rerouted for several hours but westbound I-80 re-opened about 3:30am this morning.

AMISH MEN INJURED IN FALL

Two men who were repairing a roof at a business in Oval escaped serious injury yesterday around 3pm, after the trusses they were standing on while working, suddenly gave way.  According to the Sun Gazette, the two, who were Amish, were working at Wild Rose Concrete when the scaffold collapsed and they fell through the section they stood on 24 feet to a concrete floor below.  They were transported to Geisinger Jersey Shore and each only suffered minor injuries. Witnesses say the outcome of the Limestone Township accident could have been much worse.

FLAG BURNING CEREMONY TONIGHT

It’s Flag Day!  The annual flag retirement service will be held tonight at 7pm in Northumberland.  According to media outlets, Boy Scouts will be on hand at the American Legion Post 44, at 301 Point Township Drive, to assist the leadership of the American Legion Post, the auxiliary and the Sons of the Legion, in burning of the American flags that have been brought in for retirement.  The Point Township Fire Department will monitor the burning and the ashes will be retained so they can be buried after the event.

WINNERS IN 2022 SOAPBOX DERBY

Williamsport’s Soapbox derby took place in downtown Williamsport last Saturday and two young women won the two divisions for 2022.  According to the Sun Gazette, 9 year old Grace Stoltz won the stock division, and 9 year old Alivia Lukowsky won the super stock division.  They will now join the other local champions who earned a trip to Akron, Ohio this summer for the 84th FirstEnergy All American Soap Box Derby, July 23rd.  The world Championship features a whole week of festival activities for champions and their families.

HEARING CHANGED AGAIN FOR ALLEGED SUNBURY SHOOTER

The man accused of shooting a victim at a local convenience store May 19th who was found by US Marshalls five days later in Philadelphia after he fled the scene in Sunbury, has had his preliminary hearing date changed again after two previous rescheduled court dates.  According to the Daily Item, 23 year old Ajani Munsh-Ousha Uhuru will face Sunbury District Judge Mike Toomey June 24th at 1:30 in the Northumberland County Courthouse.  His father Ajani Munsh-Uche Uhuru was also charged with felonies in the same case for attempting to conceal the getaway car the day of the shooting when the younger Uhuru was being sought by police.  30 year old Kareem Jakes who was allegedly shot by Uhuru after an argument inside the Penn Jersey Food Mart, died at the scene.  Both suspects are in the Northumberland County Prison.

HOUSE FIRE IN NISBET

A fire in Nisbet caused about 70 thousand dollars worth of damage at an East Village Drive home yesterday morning.  According to the Sun Gazette, Suzanne and Donald Butters were alerted to a fire in their home by smoke detectors and escaped at about 6:50am.  Volunteers from Nisbet, DuBoistown, nippenose Valley, South Williamsport and Woodward Township worked the scene where the state fire marshal determined the blaze to be accidental caused by careless smoking.   

ROAD WORK WILL SLOW FESTIVAL TRAFFIC IN RENOVO

Expect travel delays through Renovo this week as Clinton County PennDOT says there will be crews performing sealcoat work along Tamarack Road from Route 120 to the Potter County line.  Those traveling to the Smoked Country Jam Bluegrass fest at the Quiet Oaks Campground this Thursday through Saturday should expect delays and slower traffic, so plan accordingly.  Crews will be working on Rt 144 from 7am to 7pm each day.

FOOD PROGRAMS THIS SUMMER FOR THE FOOD INSECURE

Children and their caretakers can take advantage of summer food assistance programs now that the school year is over and some families face serious food insecurity during summer break.  According to Feed America, 22 million children experience summer hunger and the Department of Agriculture, Department of Education and Department of Health of PA each have programs that provide nutrition, make enrichment activities available during the break and provide backpack programs.  There are also state food programs for seniors or seniors taking care of children such as the PA Senior Food Box Program that provides food to supplement the caregiver’s regular groceries, or Meals on Wheels programs are available through area agencies on aging.

SPORTS

Three District 4 teams still alive for their State Championship matchups!
PIAA Varsity Baseball State Semifinals
Class 5A             Selinsgrove 2      Archbishop Wood 1
Friday –Selinsgrove vs Bethel Park -Medlar Field, Lubrano Park, Penn State University @ 4:30

PIAA Varsity Softball State Semifinals
Class 1A              Montgomery 9   Glendale 0
Thursday-Montgomery vs Dubois Central Catholic –  Beard Field, Nittany Lions Softball Park, Penn State University @11am
Class 3A             Lewisburg 7        Palmerston 2
Thursday – Lewisburg vs Avonworth – Beard Field, Nittany Lions Softball Park, Penn State University @1:30pm

NBA
Warriors 104      Celtics 94  – Golden State leads 3-2
NBA Thursday Game 6 in Boston @9pm on ABC

NHL Tomorrow Stanley Cup Final –  Lightning vs Avalanche  Game 1 @8pm on ABC and ESPN+ in Denver.

MLB
Braves 9              Nationals 5
Phillies 3             Marlins 2
Blue Jays 11       Orioles 1
Cardinal 7           Pirates 5
Reds 5                 Diamondbacks 4

BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS JUNE 13, 2022

WILLIAMSPORT MAN ARRESTED AFTER HIGH SPEED CHASE

A 20 year old man from Williamsport has been denied bail after he eluded police but was taken into custody Thursday following a high speed chase that ended in a crash just off of West Fourth St.. According to the Sun Gazette, police tried to stop Douglas Robinson who was driving a 2002 Nissan Altima on I-180 in the city with a broken brake light. Police say Robinson exited at Maynard and ran a light and another stop sign which started the police pursuit that reached speeds of 100 miles per hour.  Both the Altima and a police vehicle were involved in the accident.  Robinson who was found to be on State parole has been charged with felony fleeing police, and illegal firearms charges and reckless endangerment.

MAN CHARGED WITH STRANGULATION

A 37 year old man from Williamsport was charged with second degree felony strangulation and harassment after a confrontation near the 2000 block of Federal Avenue on June 7th. According to North Central Pa dot com, an argument over a vehicle allegedly erupted and Dwayne Westley Short, pushed the victim to the ground with his hands around their neck, causing them to nearly lose consciousness. Short will have a preliminary hearing tomorrow and is being held at the Lycoming County Prison in lieu of $25,000 bond

IN-STATE PENN COLLEGE TUITION GOING UP

The Pennsylvania College of Technology Board of Directors have announced that they will be raising the rates for in-state students. According to the Sun-Gazette, citing the impacts of national trends on college enrollment and an increase in costs; the 2022-23 total budget of $161.5 million, will include a 1.87% increase in tuition for in-state. The total budget represents a 3.22% increase over the current budget.

PA GAME COMMISSION HUNTING LICENSES AVAILABLE TODAY

The Pennsylvania Game Commission says their 2022-23 hunting licenses go on sale today online and in person for licenses valid starting July 1st.  General hunting licenses and furtaker licenses each cost $20.97 for Pennsylvania residents and $101.97 for nonresidents, but cost only a dollar for Hunter-Trapper Education instructors in Pennsylvania plus $1.97 in administrative fees.  The first round of antlerless deer licenses are on sale July 11th and non-residents can apply for a doe license starting July 18. The second round of doe licenses begins Aug. 1. Online at Pgc.pa.gov

CANINE UNIT DISCOVERS DRUGS IN NEW JERSEY MAN’S CAR

A New Jersey man is facing felony charges after police discovered drugs in his vehicle during a traffic stop on I-80 last week.  According to  the Standard Journal    police say 39 year old Nyjuane Kelly, of Irvington, New Jersey gave consent for a canine search of his car which turned up heroin and crack cocaine.  Kelly was arrested and charged with four felony counts of possession with intent to deliver and is incarcerated under 300 thousand dollars bail

ASSAULT OF A MINOR CHARGES DROPPED FOR CITY MAN

Charges against a Williamsport man who was accused of inappropriate contact with minors 8-10 years ago have been dropped in Lycoming County District Court.  According to the Sun Gazette, court records show that the alleged victims did not show up for the preliminary proceedings against 35 year old Tyler Stradley and State Police have withdrawn charges of aggravated assault, endangering the welfare of children and other charges. 

NEW APPRAISER NEEDED

The City of Williamsport is looking for a new appraisal firm for services regarding first steps in making a decision about the fate of City Hall.  According to North Central PA dot com, Nesterick Appraisal and Consulting has withdrawn their offer for services according to information given at last week’s City Council meeting. City Engineer Jon Sander said that he plans to have another resolution for appraisal services back in front of council within the next couple weeks. The next meeting is scheduled to be held June 23.

LLI PRESENTS UVALDE TEAM WITH COMMUNITY AWARD

The Little League President and CEO, Steven Keener has recognized a Uvalde Texas team with an annual award in the wake of the tragic shooting that occurred at Robb Elementary School there on May 24th, which directly affected several little league families.  Hoping for healing for the entire Uvalde community, Keener awarded the Uvalde Little League with the 2022 Carl E. Stotz Little League Community Award saying that maybe the community can find comfort while being together at the little league fields.

SPORTS

PIAA Varsity Baseball State Semifinals
Class 5A     Selinsgrove vs Archbishop Wood  at Walter Stump Stadium in Pine Grove at 4 PM
PIAA Varsity Softball State Semifinals
Class 1A –   Montgomery vs Glendale at Milesburg Little League Complex at 2pm
Class 3A  –   Lewisburg vs Palmerton at Central Columbia HS @4pm
                   Bald Eagle Area vs Avonworth at Saint Francis University @4:30pm

MLB
Guardians 8                  A’s 3
Diamondbacks 13        Phillies 1
Yankees 18                   Cubs 4
Brewers 4                     Nationals 1
Braves 5                        Pirates 3
Orioles 10                     Royals 7
Reds 7                           Cardinals 6
Mets 4                           Angels 1

NASCAR
Daniel-Suarez earned an historic victory Sunday at Sonoma Raceway, becoming the first Mexican-born driver to win a Cup race followed by Chris Buescher, Michael McDowell, Kevin Harvick and Austin Cindric  

NBA tonight

The Warriors tied it up 2-2 last Friday night in the NBA Finals Game 4, 107 – 97, they play Game 5 tonight in San Francisco 9 PM on ABC.

NHL this week
Game 1 of the Stanley Cup Finals starts Wednesday between Lightning and Avalanche at 8pmon ABC and ESPN+

BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS JUNE 9, 2022

POLICE CHASE LANDS A CITY WOMAN IN JAIL FOR 6TH DUI

A Williamsport woman is facing her 6th DUI charge after she led police in a dangerous pursuit through the city about 4pm Tuesday afternoon.  According to the Sun Gazette, police say 42 year old April Mohn drove her Volkswagen Jetta through several red lights and stop signs starting from the 700 block of Hepburn Street.  Police stopped the chase on Memorial Avenue due to school children being in the area, but an officer located Mohn a few minutes later on Light Street when she drove down a dead end.  They took Mohn into custody after she kicked and swore at officers and told them she was drunk, and they found a half bottle of vodka in the car.  She faces felony fleeing police, assault charges, DUI and other traffic violations.  A judge determined she was unfit for arraignment and was committed to Lycoming County Prison in lieu of 50 thousand dollar bail.

POLICE LOOKING FOR MEN COMMITTING STRING OF THEFTS

Police say they are looking for two men who are committing thefts across Pennsylvania, including incidents in Blair County and recently in Centre County May 26th.  According to North Central PA dot com, police say the men have stolen wallets in several cities and used the cards inside those wallets to make large purchases.  Investigators say the pair were driving a white sedan when they left the Giant Food store in State College last month. If you have any information about the pair, contact the State College Police Department – Or contact Officer Nicholas Graves at 814-234-7150.

WASD KEEPING TAX RATE THE SAME NEXT YEAR

The Williamsport Area School Board has approved a hold in raising district property taxes for 2022-2023, keeping the real estate millage at 17.24 as well as keeping the earned income tax at 1.5% and transfer tax at .5%.  Other breaks for some homeowners could be an opportunity to benefit from the Homestead Property Inclusion Act if they qualify, and all families benefit from the board approving the district’s participation in the Community Eligibility meal program; which allows students to have free breakfast and lunch regardless of family income.

PA HITS HIGH MARK FOR GAS

The average price for a gallon of gasoline has gone over $5 a gallon in Pennsylvania.  According to AAA, the average now is the highest ever recorded for unleaded at $5.04.  In Lycoming County the average price for gas just over $5.02.  Warren County has the lowest average price today at just over 4 dollars and 90 cents per gallon. Nationally the average right now is at $4.96.

FATAL CRASH IN ELYSBURG

Traffic was tied up for hours Tuesday after a fatal head-on crash happened along Route 487 near Route 54. According to the Daily Item, witnesses say a man driving a black Jetta eastbound on West Valley Avenue in Elysburg swerved into the westbound lane and struck a man driving a green Toyota Tundra who tried to avoid the impact.  The man in the Jetta was declared deceased by the Clinton County Coroner who arrived on the scene.  The driver of the Toyota was transported to Geisinger Medical Center, but no word on his condition today.  Ralpho Township police will release the names of the victims following a conclusion of the investigation of the crash.

BILL PROHIBITS SPORTS PARTICIPATION FOR TRANSGENDER WOMEN

A Republican sponsored bill that prohibits transgender women from participating in women’s sports passed 30 to 20 in the Pennsylvania Senate this week.  The bill that opponents say will harm vulnerable young people now goes to the House.  Those who support the legislation say the bill levels the playing field for students. A spokesperson for Governor Wolf said he would veto the bill if it got to his desk.  According to Penn Live, a dozen other states have enacted legislation that bans transgender athletes from participating in sports consistent with their gender identity.

FIRST BIDS REJECTED IN GRAFIUS RUN DESIGN PROJECT

Williamsport City’s engineer, Jon Sander, has rejected proposals from six engineering design firms after it was shown that the footprint of basins that would keep flood waters from overwhelming Grafius Run would be too big.  The advertisement for bids for the 3.2 million dollar budgeted project will be re-run until July 22nd.  Engineers will need to propose a design for two flood control basins that would contain peak floods and allow the water from a 50 to 100 year storm to flow out slowly.  Funding is made possible by the American Rescue Plan Act for the overall project.

BILL REQUIRES NOTIFICATION FOR EZ-PASS CUSTOMERS

A bill requiring the Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission to notify E-ZPass holders of     v-toll fees they incur as they use the commonwealth’s highway system has passed.  According to WHTM in Harrisburg, a 10 dollar fee – or a v-toll – is charged when a car goes through the toll plaza without a transponder being detected.  House Bill 2139 passed unanimously in the house 203-0 and now goes to the Senate.  The bill could also increase penalties for those who don’t pay or evade tolls.  In 2021 more than 200 thousand customers were charged the v-toll fee without being aware of it.

REPUBLICAN US SENATE SEAT RECOUNT COMPLETE IN PA

Dr. Mehmet Oz defeated Lycoming County favorite, David McCormick by 951 votes in the US Sentate Republican Primary after the official recount was competed yesterday.  According to PennLive, the final count was Oz with 419 thousand 999 votes to McCormick’s 419 thousand 48 votes.  McCormick conceded the race last Friday evening after his attempt at recounting the votes county by county was not closing the gap between him and Oz.  There was a 21 vote difference between the first count and the recount.  1.3 million votes were cast in the Pennsylvania Primary May 17th.

SPORTS

PIAA Varsity Baseball State Quarterfinal Playoffs
TODAY
Class 2A South Williamsport vs Everett at Cedar Cliff HS – Camp Hill 4:30 PM
Class 3A Central Columbia vs Lancaster Catholic at Wenger Field -Fredericksburg 6:30pm

TOMORROW
Class 4A Montoursville vs Monsignor Bonner at Cumberland Valley HS – Mechanicsburg 4pm

P I-AA Varsity Softball State Quarterfinal Playoffs
TODAY
Class 1A          Montgomery vs Faith Christian Academy at Central Columbia HS – Bloomsburg 4pm
Class 2A          South Williamsport vs Claysburg Kimmel at Milesburg Little League Complex 3 PM
Class 3A          Bald Eagle Area vs Deer Lakes – Saint Francis University 4:30 PM
                        Lewisburg vs Kutztown  – Pine Grove Area HS 5 PM
Class 5A          Central Mountain vs Armstrong at Saint Francis University 2 PM
Class 6A          Williamsport vs North Penn at Wilkes University at noon

NBA Finals Game 3
Celtics 116          Warriors 100
Boston leads the series 2-1 … Next NBA match-up Friday night in Boston 9 PM on ABC for Game 4
 
NHL Tonight
Lightning and Rangers play the East final Game 5 @8 PM  on ESPN/ ESPN+ tied up 2-2


MLB
Tigers 3               Pirates 1
Diamondback 7 Reds 0
Marlins 2            Nationals 1
Guardians 4        Rangers 0
Twins 8               Yankees 1
Phillies 10           Brewers 0
Padres 13            Mets 2
Cubs and Orioles were postponed due to rain – make-up game in August

BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS JUNE 9, 2022

POLICE CHASE LANDS A CITY WOMAN IN JAIL FOR 6TH DUI

A Williamsport woman is facing her 6th DUI charge after she led police in a dangerous pursuit through the city about 4pm Tuesday afternoon.  According to the Sun Gazette, police say 42 year old April Mohn drove her Volkswagen Jetta through several red lights and stop signs starting from the 700 block of Hepburn Street.  Police stopped the chase on Memorial Avenue due to school children being in the area, but an officer located Mohn a few minutes later on Light Street when she drove down a dead end.  They took Mohn into custody after she kicked and swore at officers and told them she was drunk, and they found a half bottle of vodka in the car.  She faces felony fleeing police, assault charges, DUI and other traffic violations.  A judge determined she was unfit for arraignment and was committed to Lycoming County Prison in lieu of 50 thousand dollar bail.

POLICE LOOKING FOR MEN COMMITTING STRING OF THEFTS

Police say they are looking for two men who are committing thefts across Pennsylvania, including incidents in Blair County and recently in Centre County May 26th.  According to North Central PA dot com, police say the men have stolen wallets in several cities and used the cards inside those wallets to make large purchases.  Investigators say the pair were driving a white sedan when they left the Giant Food store in State College last month. If you have any information about the pair, contact the State College Police Department – Or contact Officer Nicholas Graves at 814-234-7150.

WASD KEEPING TAX RATE THE SAME NEXT YEAR

The Williamsport Area School Board has approved a hold in raising district property taxes for 2022-2023, keeping the real estate millage at 17.24 as well as keeping the earned income tax at 1.5% and transfer tax at .5%.  Other breaks for some homeowners could be an opportunity to benefit from the Homestead Property Inclusion Act if they qualify, and all families benefit from the board approving the district’s participation in the Community Eligibility meal program; which allows students to have free breakfast and lunch regardless of family income.

PA HITS HIGH MARK FOR GAS

The average price for a gallon of gasoline has gone over $5 a gallon in Pennsylvania.  According to AAA, the average now is the highest ever recorded for unleaded at $5.04.  In Lycoming County the average price for gas just over $5.02.  Warren County has the lowest average price today at just over 4 dollars and 90 cents per gallon. Nationally the average right now is at $4.96.

FATAL CRASH IN ELYSBURG

Traffic was tied up for hours Tuesday after a fatal head-on crash happened along Route 487 near Route 54. According to the Daily Item, witnesses say a man driving a black Jetta eastbound on West Valley Avenue in Elysburg swerved into the westbound lane and struck a man driving a green Toyota Tundra who tried to avoid the impact.  The man in the Jetta was declared deceased by the Clinton County Coroner who arrived on the scene.  The driver of the Toyota was transported to Geisinger Medical Center, but no word on his condition today.  Ralpho Township police will release the names of the victims following a conclusion of the investigation of the crash.

BILL PROHIBITS SPORTS PARTICIPATION FOR TRANSGENDER WOMEN

A Republican sponsored bill that prohibits transgender women from participating in women’s sports passed 30 to 20 in the Pennsylvania Senate this week.  The bill that opponents say will harm vulnerable young people now goes to the House.  Those who support the legislation say the bill levels the playing field for students. A spokesperson for Governor Wolf said he would veto the bill if it got to his desk.  According to Penn Live, a dozen other states have enacted legislation that bans transgender athletes from participating in sports consistent with their gender identity.

FIRST BIDS REJECTED IN GRAFIUS RUN DESIGN PROJECT

Williamsport City’s engineer, Jon Sander, has rejected proposals from six engineering design firms after it was shown that the footprint of basins that would keep flood waters from overwhelming Grafius Run would be too big.  The advertisement for bids for the 3.2 million dollar budgeted project will be re-run until July 22nd.  Engineers will need to propose a design for two flood control basins that would contain peak floods and allow the water from a 50 to 100 year storm to flow out slowly.  Funding is made possible by the American Rescue Plan Act for the overall project.

BILL REQUIRES NOTIFICATION FOR EZ-PASS CUSTOMERS

A bill requiring the Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission to notify E-ZPass holders of     v-toll fees they incur as they use the commonwealth’s highway system has passed.  According to WHTM in Harrisburg, a 10 dollar fee – or a v-toll – is charged when a car goes through the toll plaza without a transponder being detected.  House Bill 2139 passed unanimously in the house 203-0 and now goes to the Senate.  The bill could also increase penalties for those who don’t pay or evade tolls.  In 2021 more than 200 thousand customers were charged the v-toll fee without being aware of it.

REPUBLICAN US SENATE SEAT RECOUNT COMPLETE IN PA

Dr. Mehmet Oz defeated Lycoming County favorite, David McCormick by 951 votes in the US Sentate Republican Primary after the official recount was competed yesterday.  According to PennLive, the final count was Oz with 419 thousand 999 votes to McCormick’s 419 thousand 48 votes.  McCormick conceded the race last Friday evening after his attempt at recounting the votes county by county was not closing the gap between him and Oz.  There was a 21 vote difference between the first count and the recount.  1.3 million votes were cast in the Pennsylvania Primary May 17th.

SPORTS

PIAA Varsity Baseball State Quarterfinal Playoffs
TODAY
Class 2A South Williamsport vs Everett at Cedar Cliff HS – Camp Hill 4:30 PM
Class 3A Central Columbia vs Lancaster Catholic at Wenger Field -Fredericksburg 6:30pm

TOMORROW
Class 4A Montoursville vs Monsignor Bonner at Cumberland Valley HS – Mechanicsburg 4pm

P I-AA Varsity Softball State Quarterfinal Playoffs
TODAY
Class 1A          Montgomery vs Faith Christian Academy at Central Columbia HS – Bloomsburg 4pm
Class 2A          South Williamsport vs Claysburg Kimmel at Milesburg Little League Complex 3 PM
Class 3A          Bald Eagle Area vs Deer Lakes – Saint Francis University 4:30 PM
                        Lewisburg vs Kutztown  – Pine Grove Area HS 5 PM
Class 5A          Central Mountain vs Armstrong at Saint Francis University 2 PM
Class 6A          Williamsport vs North Penn at Wilkes University at noon

NBA Finals Game 3
Celtics 116          Warriors 100
Boston leads the series 2-1 … Next NBA match-up Friday night in Boston 9 PM on ABC for Game 4
 
NHL Tonight
Lightning and Rangers play the East final Game 5 @8 PM  on ESPN/ ESPN+ tied up 2-2


MLB
Tigers 3               Pirates 1
Diamondback 7 Reds 0
Marlins 2            Nationals 1
Guardians 4        Rangers 0
Twins 8               Yankees 1
Phillies 10           Brewers 0
Padres 13            Mets 2
Cubs and Orioles were postponed due to rain – make-up game in August

BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS JUNE 8, 2022

LOCAL GROUP ASKS COMMISSIONERS FOR RECOUNT OF 2020

Citing the accuracy of the recount in the 2022 primary elections for the GOP U.S. Senate race, Lycoming County Director of Elections, Forrest Lehman, defended the integrity of the election process in Lycoming County this week.  According to the Sun Gazette,  a group of concerned citizens asked the Lycoming County Commissioners at their meeting Tuesday, to fully audit the outcome of the 2020 election after they gathered a petition from more than 1100 citizens who also feel the election was compromised The group also asked for other changes including removing voting machines from elections and hand counts at every precinct going forward.  Lycoming County officials agreed to look at any viable evidence of election laws being broken and said they would forward anything found to the district attorney.

HOMICIDE CHARGES FOR SNYDER COUNTY MAN HELD FOR COURT

Homicide charges have been held for court this week for 33 year old Brad Bailor, the Snyder County man who is accused of killing Leslie Bailor, his estranged wife, in their home last April. According to court records from a hearing Tuesday, he may waive a court appearance in July that will place him on a list to begin pre-trial criminal proceedings in September.  The District Attorney told media outlets that he has not decided if he will seek the death penalty for Bailor.  He remains in Snyder County prison with no bail.

LANE CLOSURES IN SUNBURY SUNDAY

There will be a weekend lane closure on the Veteran’s Memorial Bridge in Sunbury this Sunday, June 12.  According to PennDOT, the northbound lanes of the bridge will be closed between Route 147 in Sunbury and Routes in Shamokin Dam so that crews can clear debris from under the bridge between the hours of 6am and 5pm.  Detours will be in place for those traveling on northbound Route 61 – taking Route 147 north and Route 11 south back to 11/15.  Southbound 61 will have restrictions in the left passing lane.

NEW WASD SCHOOL BOUNDARIES ONLINE

Any parent wishing to review the boundaries for primary schools in the Williamsport Area School District has access to it today through the district website.  It was recently announced that the Stevens Primary School would close June 30th, causing almost 300 students and staff to relocate to other facilities.  The online finder site allows families to enter their address and the school they will attend shows on the screen.  Go to wasd.org under the ‘My District’ tab.

WOMAN ARRESTED AFTER ASSAULTING OFFICERS

A Woodward Township woman was taken into custody after she allegedly assaulted officers who were assisting with removing a child from unsafe conditions in her homeon Sunday.  According to North Central PA dot com, police say 28 year old Ravynne Kelsey of Trout Run injured the officers in her home when Clinton County Children and Youth Services were there for the children.  Kelsey was charged with felony aggravated assault and resisting arrest.  She is in Clinton County Prison in lieu of 100 thousand dollars bond, and has a preliminary hearing June 14th.

NEW SUPERINTENDENT FOR SOUTH WILLIAMSPORT

The former superintendent for the Canton School district, Dr. Eric Briggs’, has been approved as the new South Williamsport School District Superintendent at the school board meeting Monday night.  According to the Sun Gazette, the first day of  Briggs’ 5-year 140 thousand a year contract begins July 1st.  Former South Williamsport Superintendent, Dr. Mark Stamm will begin the new chapter in his career next month as the Superintendent of East Lycoming School District.

GOVERNOR WOLF TESTS POSITIVE FOR COVID

Mentioning his gratitude for having gotten the COVID -19 booster shot, Pennsylvania Governor Tom Wolf announced Monday that he has tested positive for COVID again, according to his Twitter account.  This is the second time the governor has tested positive.  COVID number increased for the past couple weeks but have recently trended downward with the Pennsylvania Department of Health recording approximately 24 thousand cases in the Commonwealth down from approximately 29 thousand cases last week. 

SPECIAL NEEDS JOB FAIR NEXT WEEK

PA Career Link in Sunbury is holding a Special Needs Job Fair Next Thursday at the Susquehanna Valley Mall.  Those with disabilities or special needs are encouraged to come if they are seeking employment.  It is a free event and it is open to the public.  The Arc Susquehanna Valley coordinated with the office of the 108th district State Representative, Lynda Schlegel Culver to bring the job fair to the area.  Some companies which will be represented include Associates for Training and Development, Amazon.com, Custom Container Solutions, Pennsylvania Office of Vocational Rehabilitation, First Commonwealth Bank, Pinpoint Federal Credit Union, Senior Helpers, Steve Shannon Tire and Auto Centers, Strong Spas, T-Ross Brothers Construction, Union-Snyder Agency on Aging, Inc., Weis Markets and YES to the Future.  Call PA Career Link in Sunbury for details 570-988-7301.

SPORTS

PIAA Varsity Baseball State Quarterfinal Playoffs
Thursday, June 9
Class 2A South Williamsport vs Everett at Cedar Cliff HS – Camp Hill 4:30 PM
Class 3A Central Columbia vs Lancaster Catholic at Wenger Field -Fredericksburg 6:30pm

Friday June 10
Class 4A Montoursville vs Monsignor Bonner at Cumberland Valley HS – Mechanicsburg 4pm
P I-AA Varsity Softball State Quarterfinal Playoffs
Thursday, June 9
Class 1A          Montgomery vs Faith Christian Academy at Central Columbia HS – Bloomsburg 4pm
Class 2A          South Williamsport vs Claysburg Kimmel at Milesburg Little League Complex 3 PM
Class 3A          Bald Eagle Area vs Deer Lakes – Saint Francis University 4:30 PM
                        Lewisburg vs Kutztown  – Pine Grove Area HS 5 PM
Class 5A          Central Mountain vs Armstrong at Saint Francis University 2 PM
Class 6A          Williamsport vs North Penn at Wilkes University at noon


NHL
Lightning 4         Rangers 1  East Final Game 4 series tied up 2-2
NHL Saturday
Rangers and Lightning 8 PM on ESPN and ESPN+ – Game 6

NBA
Golden State’s in Boston tonight for Game 3 of the NBA Finals @9pm on ABC their series is tied up 1-1
MLB
Game 1      Guardians 6        Rangers 3
Game 2      Ranger 6              Guardians 3
                    Marlins 12          Nationals 2
                   Orioles 9             Cubs 3
                   Tigers 5               Pirates 3
                   Braves 3              A’s 2
                   Yankees 10         Twins 4
                   Phillies 3             Brewers 2
                   Red Sox 6           Angels 5
                   Padres 7              Mets 0

BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS JUNE 7, 2022

WOMAN WHO STOLE IDLING CAR WITH TODDLER INSIDE ON THE RUN

Police are still looking for the 27 year old woman who triggered a statewide Amber Alert Sunday when she stole a car with a toddler in the back seat from a convenience store in York County.  According to Penn Live, surveillance footage shows Maria McKenzie driving away in a 2005 Suzuki SUV that was left idling outside the store by the child’s mother, Tiffany Campbell.  McKenzie was pulled over in Philadelphia about 2 and a half hours later on Sunday night with the unharmed child still in the car, but she eluded the police at the traffic stop and police are still searching for her.  She faces charges of kidnapping, false imprisonment, theft and other felonies.

WILLIAMSPORT MAN WANTED IN NEW YORK ARRESTED

A man from Williamsport who is wanted on felony criminal contempt charges in Central Islip New York, was taken into custody by Williamsport’s police fugitive task force May 23rd near Federal Avenue.  According to North Central PA dot com, 31 year old Gerald B. Batton is wanted for felony criminal contempt by the  Suffolk First District Court in New York and had his preliminary hearing last Tuesday in Williamsport.  Magisterial District Judge Christian Frey denied bail for Batton.

PARKING BAN ORDINANCE IN DUBOISTOWN

Following safety concerns in about parking, the Duboistown Borough Council has passed a parking ban ordinance that will go into effect on July 2nd.  According to the Sun Gazette, the group voted at their last monthly meeting to keep cars from parking on the both sides of the lower end of Edgewood Avenue.  There is a danger there when cars pull onto the street from Euclid Avenue.  In other business in Duboistown, the rental inspection ordinance that was approved by council last week will have a public hearing Thursday June 16th to consider it.  Residents will be able to provide their input.

LITTLE LEAGUE CONGRESS RETURNS TO WILLIAMSPORT

The Little League International Congress will be held in Williamsport this week, the first time the gathering has been held here since 1989.  According to a press release by little league international, the congress will welcome over a thousand volunteers to our city this weekend, including 450 delegates who will represent their leagues in policy and rule changes to be discussed during the event that will run from June 10th thru 13th.  The last day of the Congress kicks off the Little League International Tournament season and the 75th Little League Baseball World Series. 

DRUGS FOUND STASHED IN A CHILDREN’S PLAYHOUSE

A Snyder County homeowner discovered marijuana and drug paraphernalia left behind inside a children’s playhouse at their home in Carter Township.  According to north Central PA dot com, police were called to the residence and after an investigation, uncovered that a Mount Carmel man was the owner of the drugs that he had allegedly stashed outside the home.  Twenty-eight year old Lucas Klingerman was charged with misdemeanors of possession as well as a summary of scattering rubbish.

MILLMONT MAN LIFEFLIGHTED FROM MOTORCYCLE CRASH

A man from Millmont crashed his motorcycle in Union County Friday and is listed in critical condition today at Geisinger.  According to media outlets, 32 year old Brandon Mottern hit a tree when he was traveling west on Weikert Road in  Hartley Township.  State Troopers say the accident happened around 5:45pm when Mottern drove off the road and struck a tree.  He was transported to the hospital by Life Flight who were assisted by the West End Fire Company and EMS along with state police who were at the scene.

WATER AUTHORITY RAISES WAGES

Inflationary wage increases were approved for Lycoming County Water and Sewer Authority employees at the latest Authority Board meeting. According to the Sun Gazette, the board approved a two dollar an hour increase for each of the 22 full time employees on the staff.  The Authority’s Executive Director, Christine Weigle said the move was unprecedented, but imperative to retain employees who have the technical, industry knowledge to fulfill the water authority’s mission.  The board’s next meeting is July 6th in Montoursville.

FLAGS FOR HEROES IN SUNBURY FOR THE 4TH

The Sunbury Rotary Club is inviting the public to support your favorite local hero by flying a flag in their honor over the 4th of July Holiday.  According to the Rotary club in Sunbury, the 3rd annual local event takes place in the Merle Phillips Park on Front Street in Sunbury again.  The cost is 50 dollars per flag and the deadline to sponsor is June 12th.  Sponsors receive a keepsake medallion with the name of their hero on it after the event.

SPORTS

PIAA State Playoffs Varsity Baseball Round 1
Class A
     Halifax 3                      Benton 0
Class 2A    South Wmsport 13      Holy Cross 1
Class 3A    Central Columbia 5     Scranton prep 4
Class 4A    Montoursville 5           Wyoming Area 2
Class 5A    Selinsgrove 1               Susquehanna 0
                  Bethel Park 4               Central Mountain 3

PIAA State Playoffs Varsity Softball Round 1

Class 1A    Montgomery 1             Tri Valley 0
Class 2A    South Williamsport 8 Elk Lake 7
                  Johnsonburg 3             Muncy 1
Class 3A    Lewisburg 14               Palisades 0
                   Bald Eagle Area 4        Southmoreland 1
Class 4A    Tunkhanock 2              Shamokin 1
Class 5A    Central Mountain 1     North Hills 0
Class 6A    Williamsport 7             Haverford 1

NHL Stanley Cup playoffs
Avalanche 6        Oilers 5 – West Final Game 4,  Colorado wins the series 4-0
NHL Tonight
Rangers are in Tampa to play Lightning @8 PM on ESPN and ESPN+ in the East Final Game 4, Rangers leading 2-1

NBA this week
Golden State is in Boston tomorrow @9 PM on ABC for the NBA Finals Game 3, series tied up 1-1

MLB
Reds 7                 Diamondbacks 0
Mariners 7          Astros 4
Blue Jays 8         Royals 0
Red Sox 1           Angels 0
Mets 11               Padres 5
Rangers and Guardians were postponed due to rain – they’ll make that up today in Cleveland.

BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS JUNE 6, 2022

ELDERLY MAN RESCUED FROM SMOKE FILLED HOME

An elderly man was rescued Saturday from a house fire after an ember sparked the blaze during his use of a torch to burn weeds from his property. A volunteer fireman and two other individuals helped the man living on Pennsylvania Avenue in  Loyalsock Township about 4:30pm. According to the Sun Gazette the man was unable to make his way out of a back bedroom and the house was filling with smoke, but he was not injured.  The man, whose name was not released, was able to return to his home later in the evening after the fire was extinguished. Williamsport, and Montoursville assisted Loyalsock Township with the fire.  

PITTSBURGH MAN FACES RAPE CHARGES IN WILLIAMSPORT

A Pittsburgh man is facing felony counts of rape, unlawful contact of a minor and other charges, after an accuser made claims of abuse during Williamsport police investigations in 2018 through 2020.  According to North Central PA dot com, 22 year old Jared Mychal Thompson, waived his preliminary hearing on Friday in Lycoming County Court.  On May 10th, Thompson’s bail was changed from $250,000 monetary to unsecured. Thompson posted it and was released from the Lycoming County Prison pending his upcoming court appearances.

McCORMICK CONCEDES TO DR. OZ

Candidate for U.S. Senate seat, David McCormick conceded to Dr. Mehmet Oz. Lycoming County’s pick for the Republican nomination for the seat vacated by Senator Pat Toomey bowed out of the race Friday night in Pittsburgh.  McCormick made the decision after two-and-a-half weeks of waiting out final counts in a close Pennsylvania primary, unofficial totals still had Oz leading in the Commonwealth by 972 votes.  McCormick is now supporting Oz in the general election campaign against Democratic nominee John Fetterman.

GARY BROWN HONORED IN WILLIAMSPORT

Former Williamsport Millionaire, Penn State Nittany Lion and NFL star Gary Brown was remembered in a Celebration of Life service at Williamsport High School on Saturday. Several football greats attended the ceremony. Former Penn State legend Blair Thomas, current New York Giants head coach Brian Daboll, and Current Dallas Cowboy running back Ezekiel Elliott were just some of the attendees at the event to pay their respects to Brown.

MAN CHARGED WITH ASSAULT AFTER BAR FIGHT

A local bar fight means one Williamsport man will now face the charges after he waived his preliminary hearing.  According to the Sun Gazette, 50 year old Otis Anderson allegedly struck 71 year old Frank Scarfo in the head with a glass mug at a West Fourth Street bar on May 7th at about 11:30pm. Anderson was charged with aggravated assault and harassment charges and initially jailed but he was released on bail.  Scarfo was treated for his injuries at UPMC Williamsport.

WILKES-BARRE MAN ARRESTED IN MONTOURSVILLE

Police have arrested a Wilkes Barre man after they searched his vehicle and came up with heroin, methamphetamine, and firearms May 24th  in Montoursville.  According to North Central PA.com 30 year old Tyrea O. Golden, was stopped by police on N. Montour Street and ran from the scene when officers found narcotics in his pocket.  Golden was later apprehended and taken into custody and charged with numerous misdemeanors and traffic offenses along with the felony drug and gun charges.  He was denied bail, but will face Judge Gary Whiteman June 6th.

MASTRIANO VOLUNTEERS TO SIT FOR FBI

 Pennsylvania’s Republican nominee for governor has voluntarily offered to sit for an interview again with the committee investigation the January 6th attack on the US Capitol.  According to KDKA, Doug Mastriano, a retired Army Colonel had met with the FBI last year and was cleared for his alleged involvement the day of the insurrection.  The committee asked Mastirano’s lawyer for documents through a subpoena in February which lawmakers say they need as they gather as much testimony and evidence as possible before Public hearings begin this week.

NEW DEAN OF NURSING AT PENN COLLEGE

The Pennsylvania College of Technology has promoted one of its assistant deans to the top position. Valerie A. Myers, was appointed to succeed Sandra L. Richmond, who is returning to the teaching ranks at the school. Myers has been a nurse, educator and administrator for 14 years and has spent the last four as the Assistant Dean of Nursing. Myers begins her new duties as Dean of Nursing and Health Sciences on July 1st.

SPORTS

PIAA D4 Varsity Baseball State Tournament Playoffs  today
Class AAAA

Montoursville vs Wyoming area at Wilkes 4:30 PM
Class AA
 South Williamsport vs Holy Cross at Scranton University 4:30 PM.

PIAA D4 Varsity Softball

Class 6A
Haverford vs Williamsport in Elm Park today at 4:30pm
Class AAA
Lewisburg and Palisades 4 PM , TBA location
Class AA
Elk lake vs South Williamsport at Elm Park at 4:30pm

Muncy vs Johnsonburg at Saint Mary’s 1 PM today,
Class A
Tri Valley vs Montgomery at Central Columbia 5 PM today
Cowanesque Valley vs old Forge at Scranton University 1 PM today

MLB Draft League
Williamsport Crosscutters are back in Williamsport Friday night to play the State College spikes at 6:35 PM

Semi Pro Men’s Soccer
Williamsport City Lions 6  Philadelphia Lone Stars 1
Semi-pro women’s Soccer
West Chester United FC 4 Williamsport City Lions 3


NBA Finals
Warriors  107  Celtics 88 – the series tied up 1-1
NBA Next Matchup
Wednesday night in Boston for the NBA finals Game 3 9 PM on ABC



NHL Stanley Cup Playoffs

Lightning 3 Rangers 2 – East final Game 3 Rangers lead 2-1
NHL tonight in the West Final Game 4 between Avalanche and Oilers on TNT at 8 PM – Colorado leads 3-0

MLB from yesterday

Yankees 5           Tigers 4
Phillies 9             Angels 7
Pirates 3              Diamondbacks 0
Guardians 3        Orioles 2
Giants 5               Marlins 1
Nationals 5         Reds 4
Braves 8              Rockies 7
Mets 5                 Dodgers 4

NASCAR
Joey Logano got the checkered flag in overtime in the World Wide Technology Raceway in Madison, Illinois –
2nd – Kyle Busch, 3rd –  Kurt Busch, 4th – Ryan Blaney, and Aric Almirola in 5th

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