BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS JUNE 22, 2022
WASD PRINCIPAL CHARGED WITH FELONY SEXUAL ASSAULT
A Williamsport Area School District principal was arrested yesterday on felony charges after it was discovered that he allegedly sustained a long term relationship with a male student from 2014 until April of 2022. According to the Sun Gazette, 34 year old Roger Weaver Freed of Cogan Station faces more than 30 felony counts of sexual assault and corrupting the morals of a minor, as well as misdemeanors of furnishing alcohol to a minor. Freed is a ninth grade principal at Williamsport, on deck to take over as head principal. He was arraigned and is free on 175 thousand dollar intense supervised bail, with an ankle monitor.
FAST PLAY LOTTERY WINNER IN LYCOMING COUNTY
A Pennsylvania Lottery Pennsylvania Progressive game has made a Lycoming County customer at the Dandy Mini Mart in Jersey Shore on June 14th 862 thousand, eight hundred and three dollars and fifty cents richer. According to North Central PA dot com, one player played Pennsylvania Progressive Fast Play Game last week and brought home a winner – Fast Play is similar to scratch-off tickets without the need for scratching a paper ticket. The Dandy Mini Mart received a five thousand dollar bonus for selling the ticket. Fast Play prizes must be claimed within one year of the ticket’s purchase date.
AUSTRALIA EARNS A SPOT IN THE LLWS
A little league baseball team from Queensland, Australia has earned their direct entry in the 2022 Little League World Series in Williamsport this week after they dominated a seven game tournament. According to a press release by little league international, the Australia Region champion joins the Panama Region winner as the first two teams to confirm a spot for the World Series. First-round matchups include Brisbane North Region LL squaring off against the winner of the Canada Region in Game 3 on Wednesday, August 17, at 5pm in Volunteer Stadium.
LINDEN MAN SAID HE WANTED TO BE ARRESTED
An allegedly drunk man from Linden called state police this week before he caused a commotion at the Sheetz in Woodward Township and told them he wanted to go to jail. According to the Sun Gazette, 22 year old Nyreece Speck arrived at the store in his 2004 Nissan Sentra, harassed employees and refused to leave the premises when asked, until Troopers arrived. Speck allegedly fought the police, too, resisting arrest, and was charged with resisting, several counts of assault, DUI and disorderly conduct. Speck is in the Lycoming County Prison in lieu of 75 thousand dollars bail.
TWO MOTORCYCLISTS ARRESTED AFTER HIGH SPEED CHASE
Two young men were charged with fleeing a police officer May 16th after they attempted to elude officers in Snyder County with a high speed chase. According to North Central PA dot com, 20 year old Zachary Beiler of Sunbury and 19 year old Elijah Bailor from Selinsgrove were traveling on Route 204 in Jackson Township going 77 in a 45 mph zone, and were spotted by a state trooper. The officer activated his cruiser lights and the two men fled the scene. While police were in pursuit, Bailor lost control of his motorcycle and crashed a short time later. Beiler pulled his motorcycle over and both men were then arrested and charged with misdemeanors. Both will have a preliminary hearing July 7th.
PA REPUBLICANS BLOCK GUN REFORM BILL
A proposal to prevent those under 21 to have assault style weapons was blocked by State House Republicans yesterday instead changing the bill to an amendment to allow anyone to carry concealed guns . According to information from the Pennsylvania General Assembly, it was the second week in a row that Republicans in the Judiciary Committee used their majority to defeat Democratic proposals to address gun violence. The vote was nearly on party lines, with only one Republican from Philadelphia, crossing lines to vote against it. What is known as constitutional carry has wide support among Republicans in the legislature, but a bill to allow it was vetoed by Gov. Tom Wolf in December.
BIG CATFISH TOPS THE PA ANGLERS LIST
The PA Angler Awards have been announced and a fisherman from Selinsgrove broke the record for the largest fish caught in the commonwealth in 2021. According to North Central PA dot com, it took Garrett Hollenbach 15 minutes to catch the 57 pound 9 ounce flathead catfish while competing in the 24 hour Iron Man event within the Catfish Mafia Tournament Series along the Susquehanna River last September. The Angler Awards list the top five fish by type – determined by the weight. Hollenbach’s fish is technically the largest fish caught in Pennsylvania, but the PA Fish and Boat Commission won’t certify the catch because there was no official officer at the tournament where he competed last year.
SPORTS
MLB
Dodgers 8 Reds 2
Pirates 7 Cubs 1
Nationals 3 Orioles 0
Red Sox 5 Tigers 4
Rays 5 Yankees 4
Giants 12 Braves 10
Guardians 6 Twins 5
Rangers 7 Phillies 0
Astros 8 Mets 2
MLB Draft League
West Virginia 11 Williamsport 4
MLB Draft League Tonight
Crosscutters and Black Bears play Game 3 out of 3 in West Virginia, then Williamsport plays out the week in Mahoning Valley. The Crosscutters play the West Virginia Black Bears at home next Tuesday, June 28th with a 6:35pm first pitch.
NHL Tonight
Colorado (2-1) is in Tampa Bay for the Stanley Cup Final Game 4 @8pm on ABC and ESPN+
BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS JUNE 21, 2022
POLICE, MARSHALS APPREHEND FUGITIVE
A man wanted by the Lycoming County Sheriff’s Office for various offenses including possession with intent to deliver and DUI, has been apprehended. According to the Sun Gazette, 23 year old Fareed Kale was located by police and the US Marshals service April 25th at a Williamsport residence on Vine Avenue, He ran from the area before being captured a few blocks away in a yard on Grier Street. Kale was arraigned for flight to avoid apprehension, a felony charge, and is in custody in lieu of 50 thousand dollars bail.
TAX HIKE FOR SOUTH WILLIAMSPORT
South Williamsport Area School District has approved a resolution that leads to a tax hike for the upcoming school year’s budget. According to the Sun Gazette, property owners are going to see real estate tax millage rising by one point fro last year’s budget, setting it at 18.75. Board President Todd Engel was a dissenting vote, making the statement that he wanted to keep the increase to just .75 mills.
PA PARKS COULD TRADE-IN LIQUOR LICENSE
Amusement parks in Pennsylvania could expand their sale of alcohol if the Pennsylvania House of Representatives approves a bill that will allow parks to trade-in their restaurant liquor license for a Public Venue License. State Representative Ryan Mackenzie says a Public Venue License makes more sense for amusement parks since it’s used in hotels, golf courses, ski resorts, bowling allies, museums, and science centers. The House Liquor Control Committee already passed this bill in December. It now will go for a second consideration by the full House today.
SUMMER PROGRAM COORDINATOR RECOGNIZED BY PA WILDS
A Pennsdale woman is one of nine people or organizations to win the 2022 Champions of the PA Wilds Awards, and she and the other Champions will be recognized at the PA Wilds Dinner and Awards event July 28th . According to the Sun Gazette, Lu Potter, one of the founders of what is now known as Project Nature C.A.M.P., formerly Summer Alive in Montgomery was given the Inspiring Youth Award for her work overseeing programming and enrichment for children including a nutritious food program during summers. Nominations for the PA Wilds Awards are generated by the public. The banquet to be held next month, will honor all the winners, registration is required to attend. Pawildscenter.org.
TWO ARRESTS AFTER INITIAL HIGH SPEED CHASE
The passenger in a crash following a high speed chase near the Market St. bridge near I-180 June 12th was taken into custody for having a firearm with the serial number altered. According to North Central PA dot com, police say 18 year old Nyla Daniels of Red Lion, drove from the Maynard Street Sheetz at a high rate of speed, sparking a chase by police which involved one stop before Daniels fled the scene. Police were called a few minutes later to an accident off the Market St Bridge in Williamsport. Daniels had wrecked. Police say during the search of the car, her passenger, 18 year old Taiyanna Lopez, was found to have an unregistered Glock 26 with two 9mm magazines of ammunition. Both women were incarcerated for separate charges, in lieu of 25 thousand dollars bail. Their preliminary hearings are today.
WASHINGTON TOWNSHIP CRASH UPDATE
The other three people who were injured in the fatal Washington Township accident last Monday that killed passenger 36 year old Cody Rishel along I-80, have been identified. According to the Sun Gazette 47 year old Eric Stroup of Hughesville was driving his Ford Edge and hit the back of a tractor trailer in the westbound passing lane of the interstate, back seat passengers, 39 year old Ryan Hoy of Watsontown, and 31 year old Michael Miller of San Angelo, Texas were seriously injured and taken to UPMC Altoona for treatment. The driver of the tractor trailer was not injured. Rishel was trapped in the wreckage and was declared deceased at the scene by the Jefferson County Coroner.
FENTAYL STRIP LEGISLATION HEADS TO THE PA SENATE
Legislation to decriminalize test strips that let drug users identify deadly doses of fentanyl was passed in the House yesterday. According to Indiana, Pennsylvania Republican Jim Struzzi the simple tool of a test strip can help reduce deaths and give heroin users a second chance, as well as allowing them to avoid the risk of added drug charges. Fentanyl is a synthetic opioid that is added to other drugs to make them stronger and with uncontrolled dosage levels can be deadly. The legislation was sent to the Senate for consideration.
DANVILLE FARMLAND DEDICATED FOR ATHLETICS NOW
The final sales agreement that will transform Danville area farmland to athletic fields for the school district there was approved last week. According to the Daily Item, just over 20 acres of land formerly used by the Danville State Hospital is adjacent to the school and is meant to be used only for athletic fields. A new primary school was built on some of the land by the district, taking the space formerly used for soccer, softball, baseball and field hockey fields, but when Ironmen stadium was built it gave the school more athletic use options. Danville Soccer park is used for the school competitions.
SPORTS
NHL
Stanley Cup Final Game 3
Lightning 6 Avalanche 2 – Colorado still leads the series 2-1
NHL this week
Colorado stays in Tampa for Game 4, Wednesday @8pm on ABC and ESPN+
MLB
Mets 6 Marlins 0
Pirates 12 Cubs 1
Red Sox 5 Tigers 2
Yankees 4 Rays 2
Braves 2 Giants 1
MLB Draft League
West Virginia Black Bears 13 Williamsport Crosscutters 4
MLB Draft League Tonight
Crosscutters stay in WV tonight for Game 2 out of 3.
BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS JUNE 20, 2022
ROUTE 15 CRASH KILLS ONE, INJURES ONE
One man was killed and another suffered minor injuries Saturday morning about 9:45 when a their box truck went over an embankment and overturned on Route 15 South , just north of the Trout run interchange. According to the Sun-Gazette the 26 year old driver, Travis Fedoriw of Williamport, died in the crash. Police say he failed to negotiate a curve, first going down a 15-foot embankment then sliding down another 125 feet, to the west berm of the northbound lanes of Rt 15. Fedoriw was killed instantly after being partially ejected from not wearing a seatbelt. The 26 year old passenger, Kaamal Barnes, of Williamsport, who was wearing a seatbelt was treated at the scene for minor injuries. Emergency crews closed the northbound lanes for several hours to clear the accident.
EMPLOYEE SEEN TAKING LOTTERY TICKETS FROM EMPLOYER
A Williamsport man is free on bail after he was arrested for stealing lottery tickets from a convenience store where he worked. According to the Sun Gazette, 33 year old Donnell Robert Edwards is facing felony charges of thefts and receiving stolen property after police say he was seen on surveillance footage using keys from his employer to take lottery tickets from the lottery vending machine at the 7-11 on Dewey Avenue. Edwards was arraigned in front of Judge William Solomon and posted the 15 thousand dollars bail.
IMPACT FEES COMING BACK TO LOCAL COUNTIES
State Senator Gene Yaw has announced that several counties and local municipalities in the region will be receiving Marcellus Shale Impact Fee monies after the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania has decided to release another round of disbursements. In a press release from Yaw, who serves as Chair of the Senate Environmental Resources and Energy Committee, he said approximately $234 million was distributed statewide in the most recent round of funding based on natural gas production in 2021. Of that, over $48 million will be sent back to Bradford, Lycoming, Sullivan, Susquehanna and Union counties and municipal governments.
TWO HOSPITALS GET AWARDS FOR STROKE CARE
Two Central Pennsylvania hospitals have received American Heart Association’s Get with the Guidelines – Stroke quality achievement awards. UPMC Williamsport received GoldPlus recognition and UPMC Lock Haven received SilverPlus which recognize the hospitals’ commitment to ensuring stroke patients receive the most appropriate treatment according to nationally recognized, research-based guidelines, ultimately leading to more lives saved. Stroke is the No. 5 cause of death and a leading cause of disability nationwide.
CANTON MAN FACES 150 COUNTS FOR CHILD PORNOGRAPHY
A Canton area man faces child pornography charges for downloading various images and videos including ones involving minors. According to North Central Pa dot com, police arrested 57 year old Duane William Molyneux who was already a lifetime offender on the sexual predator registry. Molyneux was charged with 50 counts of second – and another 100 counts of a third-degree felony child pornography, as well as distribution and misuse of communication device charges. Molyneux is being held at the Bradford County Prison on $2 million bond with a preliminary hearing June 22nd.
TWO JAILED FOR MOTORCYCLE THEFT
Two men from Muncy are facing burglary and theft charges after they allegedly stole a motorcycle from a garage on Water Street in Muncy in April. According to the Sun Gazette, police say a township employee uncovered the motorcycle abandoned in a wooded area off E. Mechanic Street and 18 year old Benjamin Fulger admitted his involvement in the theft to authorities while incarcerated on another matter. Dennis Edwartd Vanness was also allegedly involved in the crime. Bothe are in Lycoming County Prison in lieu of 75 thousand dollars bail.
BLOOMSBURG MALL FACING AUCTION
Another mall in Pennsylvania could be dying – The Columbia Colonnade, near Buckhorn exit of Interstate 80, is set to be auctioned off at the end of July. According to North Central Pa dot com, the starting bid for the property is set at $3.4 million. According to public records, PPL has posted $10,973 in back payments owed by today. The 34-acre site has seen a similar fate as other malls, with only a few anchor businesses remaining. There is a Veterans Affairs clinic portion of the property operating inside the 400,000-square-foot building, which is also for sale.
FIRE ALLIANCE BETWEEN LOYALSOCK AND SOUTHSIDE
An alliance of fire-fighting services in Loyalsock Township and South Williamsport has been approved by both municipalities leadership.
According to the Sun Gazette, the agreement known as the Susquehanna Mutual Aid Regional Team, or SMART, will include a provision for paid fire protection and rescue services. Departments and apparatus will be funded through existing fire taxes. SMART will start with four full-time positions, with one shared administrative position providing oversight. The five-year cooperative agreement is anticipated to have two separate firefighter crews, with one crew to be stationed at Loyalsock Township, and one at South Williamsport.
SPORTS
MLB Draft League – Sunday
Williamsport Crosscutters 6 Mahoning Valley Scrappers 3 – the Crosscutters are on the road tonight in West Virginia with the Black Bears with a 7:05 first pitch.
MLB
Nationals 9 Phillies 3
Pirates 4 Giants 3
Red Sox 6 Cardinals 4
Orioles 2 Rays 1
Blue Jays 10 Yankees 9
Marlins 6 Mets 2
Brewers 6 Reds 3
Guardians 5 Dodgers 3
NHL Stanley Cup Final Game 2 from Saturday …
Avalanche 7 Lightning 0 – Colorado up 2. They play Game 3 tonight in Tampa 8 PM on ABC and ESPN+
Golf
England’s Matt Fitzpatrick won the his first PGA tour victory at the 122nd US Open at The Country Club outside Boston Sunday with a 1 shot win over Will Zalatoris and Masters champ Scottie Scheffler
USA Basketball
Two Lycoming basketball standouts, Mo Terry and Dyson Harward, have been selected to play for the USA East Coast Basketball all-star team. The team will play in Athens, Greece, and will be coached by University of Arkansas at Little Rock’s Darrell Walker, who was also an NBA champion with the Chicago Bulls in 1993. The team will have a two-day training camp at Columbia before heading to Athens to face some of Greece’s top pro teams.
BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS JUNE 17, 2022
LIGHTNING STRIKES CASCADE CABIN
Lightning yesterday morning started a cabin fire near Rose Valley Lake in Cascade Township. According to the Sun Gazette, about 6:30 Thursday the structure was set on fire when storms moved through the remote area. Trout run fire officials said the cabin had burned down to the ground before crews got to the scene on Vargis Lane north or Murray Run Road. There were no injuries reported.
POLICE SEEK SANDWICH THIEF
A man who Sheetz employees are calling the “Big Mozz Bandit”, who comes to the Loyalsock store between 11am and noon, takes a drink from the cooler, orders the Big Mozz chicken sandwich and leaves without paying, is being sought by Montoursville State Police. According to a spokesperson for the store say the man who is African American, wears Yankees or Mets clothing, and has a moustache and goatee, has repeatedly stolen other items from the store – several times in May and most recently on June 10th. If you know anything about the suspect please call PSP at 570-368-5700.
GROUP WANTS TO PAUSE POLICE REGIONALIZATION
A grassroots group of citizens in Old Lycoming Township is asking authorities to pause their police regionalization process with the Tiadaghton Valley Regional Police until they can restructure and get more of the public involved as they proceed. According to the Sun Gazette, the group of former government and community emergency management personnel, who call themselves Concerned Citizens of Old Lycoming Township, presented the supervisors with analysis of a Department of Community and Economic Development study on police regionalization they have referenced, but are asking them to proceed using recommended guidelines put forth by DCED. The group also wants a more transparent process moving forward. Lyco Township supervisors say they are waiting on information about pension and salary collective bargaining units before they can decide on regionalizing the police department.
D4’S RED RAIDERS ARE CLASS A SOFTBALL STATE CHAMPIONS
The Montgomery Area High School softball team got their parade through the borough after winning the PIAA Class A State Championship in State College yesterday against Dubois Central Catholic earning a spot in history being the first in the school’s program to successfully reach the championship. According to the Sun Gazette, in the last three games, Montgomery who was 22 and 4 for the season, beat the best teams in the state by a 27-2 margin, Congratulations to the Montgomery Red Raiders!
MAN WHO THREW VICTIMS’ SEVERED LEGS OFF BRIDGE PLEADS GUILTY
The Montoursville man arrested in 2019 for the murder of his girlfriend in 2003 has entered a plea agreement of guilty, avoiding a jury trial and a longer prison sentence. According to the Sun Gazette, 52 year old Jade Babcock of Montoursville plead guilty to killing 37 year old Brenda Jacobs following an argument, then storing her body for years and severing her legs before discarding them in the Susquehanna River off the Maynard Street bridge in Williamsport. Babcock has already spent the last three years in prison, he’ll now serve 15-30 for his crime.
MOTHER WHO STARVED CHILDREN CHARGED WITH FRAUD
The woman who is facing homicide charges for the starving deaths of two of her children, has now been charged with theft and fraud for receiving public benefits for children who were deceased but she claimed were alive. According to North Central Pa dot com, police say 33 year old Marie Sue Snyder took almost 70 thousand dollars in benefits between 2016 and 2021 from the PA department of Human services while she lied about the eligibility of her family. Snyder said in sworn testimony in March that she and another intentionally starved daughters 6 year old Nicole and 4 year old jasmine causing their deaths in2016 and 2017. Snyder has a hearing on the fraud charges June 27th and will be in court June 17th for motions on the homicide case.
ARMORY SIREN WENT OFF BY ACCIDENT
If you heard the siren coming out of the Penn Street Armory Wednesday around 12:30, it was set off in error. According to a statement from the Williamsport Bureau of Fire, the system malfunctioned causing the warning to be triggered accidentally, but no city or county official initiated the siren and there was no emergency. In the event of an emergency, the siren alerts residents to tune into local TV and radio for direction. If a test is to be performed, the community will be given ample notice before the emergency warning siren goes off.
PENNDOT SURVEY ON ELECTRIC CHARGING STATIONS AVAILABLE
PennDOT is seeking feedback from the public as they determine how to distribute over 171 million dollars in federal funding on the way for an electric vehicle charging infrastructure over the next 5 years. According to a statement, PennDOT will have the survey on their website available until June 30th, which will help them build a deployment plan due to the US department of Transportation this August. The project is to comply with the Alternative Fuel Corridor requirements mandating a charging station no farther apart than 50 miles from each other and no further than a mile from a highway intersection or interstate exit. Take the survey here; Electric Vehicles and Alternative Fuels (pa.gov)
SPORTS
The Montgomery Red Raiders are the PIAA Varsity Softball Class A State Champions, they defeated DuBois Central Catholic 5-1 yesterday at Nittany Lion Softball Park, Penn State University.
Class 3A Championship Avonworth Antelopes 7 Lewisburg Green Dragons 2
PIAA Varsity Baseball State Class 5A Championship
Today
Selinsgrove vs Bethel Park -Medlar Field, Lubrano Park, Penn State University @ 4:30
NBA Finals Game 6
Warriors 103 Celtics 90
Golden State Warriors wins the series 4-2 earning their 4th Title in 8 years.
MLB
Orioles 10 Blue Jays 2
Guardians 4 Rockies 2
Phillies 10 Nationals 1
Yankees 2 Rays 1
Mets 5 Brewers 4
NHL Tomorrow night
Stanley Cup Finals Game 2
Tampa Bay plays in Colorado 8 PM on ABC and ESPN+ Colorado’s up 1
No NASCAR this weekend … Racing comes back June 26 in Nashville for the Ally 400. Listen on WILQ ‘s HD3 or our sister station the Twin Valleys Talk Radio Network.
BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS JUNE 16, 2022
INCARCERATED WASD STUDENT CLEARED OF WRONGDOING
The Williamsport High School Student who was accused of sending terroristic threats through a school messaging platform and incarcerated for four weeks as a result of those charges has been cleared by authorities. According to the Sun Gazette, police say a 16 year old student gained access to the school account of Lucaus Adam Butler, to send the threatening messages that looked like they were sent from Butler but were not. Police say the juvenile has admitted to the charges and he will now be petitioned into juvenile court.
INMATE DIES OF SUSPECTED SUICIDE
A Snyder County prison inmate died Tuesday morning of suspected suicide according to prison officials. The identity of the 36 year old inmate was not released, but according to the daily item, the man was not under suicide watch and was considered low risk for self-harm. The Snyder County District Attorney and state police came to the prison after he was discovered unresponsive in his cell at about 3am – they have determined that there was no foul play involved. Prison staff performed CPR but the man was pronounced dead by emergency responders at the Union County facility.
MAN JAILED FOR CODE INFRACTIONS
Warnings and summary citations were not enough to get a 46 year old Lycoming County property owner to clean up his home when codes enforcement officers in Williamsport inspected and deemed its condition poor. According to North Central PA dot com, Michael Greco of Coal Township was arrested and charged with first and second degree failure to comply with code requirements after officers came to the property and continually found debris strewn about including appliances, metal, metal sheets and other items on the lawn and around the house. Greco posted $5 thousand dollars unsecured bail and will have a preliminary hearing June 21st .
NEW TRAINING FOR LITTLE LEAGUE COACHES
Little League International has implemented a new pilot training program for coaches. According to the Little League website, the “Little League Diamond Leader Training Program,” will educate volunteer coaches on their role supporting the social and emotional well-being of the players, using up to date materials and interactive scenarios so volunteers can get the resources and guidance they need to help the players have the best possible experience every season. A full launch of the Diamond Leader Training Program is planned for the 2023 season.
COURT DATE SET FOR ALLEGED SWORD WIELDING SUSPECT
A Shamokin man who is in custody for allegedly killing a woman in his home with a sword will have his preliminary hearing June 21st. According to the Daily Item, Corey Quincy allegedly stabbed Rhonda Pearce with the weapon in early April after an argument involving drugs at his Vine Street home. Police say they got a tip from a family member about Quincy’s drug use and when they went to the home, discovered Pearce’s body which was left in an upstairs bedroom from the altercation a few days prior. Quincy was arrested on April 8th and denied bail.
PROBATION OFFICER APPOINTED TO MAGISTRATE COURT
A former probation officer in Snyder County has been nominated to fill the vacant magisterial district judge position, previously held by Judge Lori Hackenberg. According to media outlets, state senator John Gordner said Bo Trawitz has been nominated to the commonwealth court. Trawitz was a Mifflin county probation officer from 2003 to 2013 and has Snyder County’s Chief Probation officer since then. Hackenberg’ seat was vacant after she was elected to the Court of Common Pleas for Snyder and Union Counties.
GROUNDBREAKING PLANNED IN WILLIAMSPORT
There will be a groundbreaking ceremony June 22nd for the expansions planned for future growth in Williamsport at West Pharmaceutical Services. According to a news release, the Reach Road expansion will include three stories for operations in 37 thousand square feet of space, which will allow the company to produce compounded rubber materials that are then processed at their Jersey Shore facility for global use. The company says the expansion in the Lycoming County region will create many family sustaining jobs.
BLACK BEAR SEEN IN SELINSGROVE BOROUGH
The Pennsylvania Game Commission was called yesterday after witnesses said a black bear was wandering through Selinsgrove borough. According to the Daily Item, the officer was unable to locate the bear that was seen near the community pool. The agency is looking to capture and relocate the bear to a less populated area. If you have information about or see the bear, call 911 or 814-643-1831 and report the bear sighting.
SPORTS
PIAA Varsity Softball State Championships New Start times today!
Class 1A
Montgomery vs DuBois Central Catholic – Beard Field, Nittany Lion Softball Park, Penn State University @10:30am
Class 3A
Lewisburg vs Avonworth – Beard Field, Nittany Lion Softball Park, Penn State University @12:30pm
MLB Draft League
Williamsport Crosscutters 7 Trenton Thunder 5
Williamsport and Trenton meet up again tonight @ Muncy Bank Ballpark – first pitch @6:35
MLB
Phillies 3 Marlins 1
Diamondbacks 7 Reds 4
Braves 8 Nationals 2
Yankees 4 Rays 3
Bluejays 7 OrioleS 6
Brewers 10 Mets 2
Red Sox 10 A’s 1
Pirates 6 Cardinals 4
Guardians 7 Rockies 5
NHL
Avalanche 4 Lightning 3 – Stanley Cup Finals Game 1
Stanley Cup Finals Game 2 – Tampa Bay @Colorado Saturday 8pm on ABC and ESPN+
NBA Tonight
NBA Finals Game 6 Golden State at Boston 9 PM on ABC Golden State leads 3-2
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