BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS APRIL 8, 2024

WILLIAMSPORT FIRE DISPLACES FIVE

A two-alarm fire Sunday in Williamsport displaced five people from a four-unit apartment building on West Fourth Street.  According to the Sun Gazette, just after 7pm,  neighbors and witnesses along the street alerted tenants to the fire they saw coming from an air conditioning unit on the second floor.  City firemen rescued a woman from a second floor apartment where there was smoke coming from the window.  Two tenants were taken to UPMC Williamsport for tr5eament of smoke inhalation, and the fire was under control in about 15 minutes.  Old Lycoming Township Volunteer Company, along with South Williamsport and Montoursville responded to the second alarm and assisted Williamsport.  The Red Cross is assisting the families and the fire is under investigation.

BODY OF FISHERMAN FOUND UNRESPONSIVE

There is a report that law enforcement officials are conducting a death investigation of an unidentified person who was found dead while fishing Saturday.  According to State Troopers the 31 year old fisherman was found unresponsive in the “Young Woman’s Creek”  in Chapman Township Saturday afternoon at about 2pm.  No other information has yet been released, and an investigation is ongoing.

MANY MAIL IN BALLOT REQUESTS FROM BOTH PARTIES

Close to a million people in Pennsylvania have requested mail-in or absentee ballot for Pennsylvania’s April 23 primary.  According to WHTM, As of April 3rd, 74% of requested mail ballots have been from registered Democrats, but more than 200,000 have been requested by Republicans. The deadline to request a mail-in or absentee ballot is 5 p.m. on April 16 and all ballots must be received by 8 p.m. on April 23.  The deadline to register to vote is April 8.

ECLIPSE TRAVLERS REMINDED OF TRAFFIC ISSUES

Travelers heading out to see the solar eclipse today in Western Pennsylvania are reminded of available resources from PennDOT and VisitErie dot com.  The path of the eclipse starts in Pennsylvania at approximately 2pm with totality expected at 3:16pm and will conclude at approximately 4:30pm Nearly 435,000 Pennsylvanians live in the path of this eclipse. State Police will be posted at each exit to keep traffic moving and people gathered at rest stops will be directed to view the eclipse elsewhere.  Find an updated webpage at 511pa.com/eclipse24.

FAST FOOD EMPLOYEE THREATENED POLICE WITH KNIFE

A fast food employee in Lewisburg pulled a knife March 22nd and threatened patrons and police.  According to North Central PA dot com, 68 year old Ronald Shumate was working when a manager discovered him threatening to harm himself and called police.  Milton State Police asked Shumate to step outside for questioning, he pulled out the knife and began yelling, and scaring customers, some who had children with them, causing them to evacuate the store.  Shumate was charged with terroristic threats, reckless endangerment, and disorderly conduct, his preliminary hearing is May 2nd.

MAN CHARGED A SIXTH TIME FOR FELONY THEFT AT GROCERY STORE

A man from Sunbury is in custody after he allegedly stole items from Weis Markets and gave police a fictitious name when they were questioning him March 23rd.  According to North Central PA dot com, 32 year old Nicholas Hurd was identified as a trespasser in the store after witnesses say they previously saw him with drug paraphernalia in the restroom and had been kicked out.  Police arrived at the scene and discovered Hurd with about 63 dollars worth of items in his pockets as well as bags and suspected methamphetamine as he left the store.  Hurd admitted to police he took drugs and then required hospitalization.  He was charged with felony retail theft and possession with intent to deliver.  Hurd has been charged and convicted 5 previous times for retail theft. He is incarcerated in liue of 150 thousand dollars bail.

A man from Sunbury is in custody after he allegedly stole items from Weis Markets and gave police a fictitious name when they were questioning him March 23rd.  According to North Central PA dot com, 32 year old Nicholas Hurd was identified as a trespasser in the store after witnesses say they previously saw him with drug paraphernalia in the restroom and had been kicked out.  Police arrived at the scene and discovered Hurd with about 63 dollars worth of items in his pockets as well as bags and suspected methamphetamine as he left the store.  Hurd admitted to police he took drugs and then required hospitalization.  He was charged with felony retail theft and possession with intent to deliver.  Hurd has been charged and convicted 5 previous times for retail theft. He is incarcerated in liue of 150 thousand dollars bail.

As Pennsylvania remains a battleground state in the upcoming presidential election, we will have visits from the current Vice President of the United states and  former President Donald Trump prior to the Presidential primary April 23rd.  According to the Pittsburgh Post Gazette, Kamala Harris will be in Philadelphia today to discuss how to continue to lower inflation in the Commonwealth, and next Saturday, Former President Donald Trump will visit Schnecksville Fire Hall on Old Packhouse Road in North Whitehall Township at 7pm. 

RESPASZ BAND OFFERING FREE CONCERT THIS MONTH

The Williamsport Community Arts Center is hosting the Respasz Band this month and they’ll be sharing a celebration of springtime and Broadway musicals for free.  According to the band, “Musical Memories”  will feature songs from 16 different musicals from composers including Andrew Lloyd Webber, John Philip Sousa, and Leonard Bernstein.  Repasz conductor Jeff Dent says many of the numbers are award-winners, from Tonys , Grammys, Golden Globes and the Oscars.  The show at 7:30 on Tuesday April 16th will also include the presentation of the Repasz Band Senior Awards, given annually to one senior from each high school in Lycoming County.

SPORTS

NASCAR
William Byron took the lead with 73 laps to go and held on to win at Martinsville Motor Speedway Sunday, giving Hendrick a 1-2-3 finish.  Kyle Larson rallied to finish second, Chase Elliott third, Bubba Wallace fourth and Ryan Blaney, last fall’s winner here, fifth. The fourth Hendrick driver, Alex Bowman, finished eighth.

March Madness
NCAA Women’s National Championship
South Carolina 87         Iowa 75
South Carolina, led by Dawn Staley, entered the women’s NCAA Tournament as the overall No. 1 seed, and won their third national championship Sunday.
NCAA Men’s National Championship Tonight
Purdue vs UConn 9:20pm TBS

MLB
Braves  5              Diamondbacks  2
Pirates  3              Orioles 2
Nationals  3          Phillies  2
Yankees 8            Blue Jays  3
Mets  3                 Reds  1
Cubs  8                 LA Dodgers  1
Red Sox  12         Angels  2
Astros  3              Rangers 1

MLB Tonight
Miami vs NY Yankees  6:05pm
Detroit vs Pittsburgh  6:40pm
Mets  vs Atlanta  7:20pm
Phillies vs St Louis  7:45pm
Washington vs San Francisco  9:45pm

NHL
Red Wings 3         Sabres  1
Senators  3           Capitals  2
Predators  3          Devils  2
Rangers  5            Canadiens  2

NHL Tonight  
Pittsburgh vs Toronto  7pm

NBA
Clippers  120       Cavaliers  118
Celtics  124          Trail Blazers  107
Knicks  122          Bucks  109
76ers  133            Spurs  126
Kings  107              Nets  77
Warriors 118        Jazz 110

BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS APRIL 5, 2024

FLOOD WATERS IMPACTING AREA ROADS

Flooding is still impacting roadways in some area counties.  According to PennDOT, as of last night in South Williamsport, there is still a lane restriction at Second Avenue  between East Second and Sylvan Dell Park Road in the borough.  In Northumberland County, there is a new trouble spot at Route 405 in Turbot Township between Susquehanna Trail and the Milton Borough line, and Shakespeare Road between Hobbes Road and Route 45 in East Chillisquaque Township remains restricted with flooding as well.   In Union County,  River Road between Tabernacle Road and New Columbia Road in White Deer Township also has flood conditions to contend with.

MAN WHO ABANDONED CAR AFTER A POLICE CHASE IS ARRESTED

A driver who eluded police after a thirty minute high speed chase around the city, and abandoned the car used in the pursuit in the Newberry neighborhood Wednesday night, has been taken into custody.  According to the Sun Gazette, police say 20 year old Kyle Alexander Grugan who is on probation for a firearm violation, didn’t stop when Lycoming Regional police attempted to stop him for a traffic violation at Mahaffey Lane and Green Avenue in Old Lycoming Township about 9:15 p.m and a high speed chase started that lasted over 20 minutes and wound around the city until Grugan got away.  After a tip came in about an abandoned Chevy Cobalt found at the 2700 block of Grand Street, police got a search warrant for the address they believed was Grugan’s and arrested him for felony fleeing police, reckless endangerment and more. He is at the Lycoming County Prison in lieu of 75 thousand dollars bail.

TURBOTVILLE ARMED ROBBERY

A gunman surprised a person who was getting off of work Wednesday night at the 4600 block of Route 54 in Turbotville  at about 8:30pm, attempting to rob them.  According to the Sun Gazette, the victim was able to run from the altercation into the Valero and called 911 before anything was stolen or anyone was injured.  Police say the suspect who attempted the armed robbery fled the scene with a silver handgun and wearing camouflage clothing.  If you have information call the Milton state police at 570-524-2662.

WWII MEMORIAL IN MIFFLINBURG TO BE REFURBISHED

Craftsmen from Finleyville have begun working on the memorial in Mifflinburg this week, in an effort to restore the Union County World War II Honor Roll at Mifflinburg Community Park.  According to the Daily Item, the North Fifth Street location is on the original site of the draft board in 1940.  According to the Union County Veterans Foundation the smaller panels have been taken to be refurbished and the large panels will be worked on on-site.  About 19 thousand dollars in funds were raised for the restoration that is expected to be complete by Memorial Day.

FATAL ACCIDENT IN SNYDER COUNTY

There was another fatal car accident this week in Snyder County.  According to State police at Selinsgrove, 63-year-old Glenn Bossinger from Thompsontown, Juniata County was driving on Route 235 on Wednesday at about 6pm.  Troopers say Bossinger may have been traveling at excessive speed before he spun out on a wet road and hit a tree, the impact of which destroyed his vehicle.  Officials had Route 235 closed for almost 2 hours while they investigated the crash.  The Snyder County Coroner pronounced Bossinger dead at the scene. 

STATE POLICE SEEK A TURBOTVILLE BURGLARY SUSPECT

A burglary took place at the Turbotville Great Value store earlier this month and state police are looking for a suspect.  According to North Central PA dot com, police say the Great Value store along State Highway 54 was burglarized last spring.  Authorities say the suspect took off with an undisclosed amount of cash, an air conditioner, a broom, a cash register server and register parts, as well as an ATM, a lottery ticket machine and computer monitors.  If you have information that could lead to the arrest of this suspect or suspects, call State police at Milton, 570-524-2662.

ELECTRIC INFRASTRUCTURE FUNDS DISTRIBUTED

PennDOT announced $20 million in investments for an early round of federal National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (NEVI) funding. This funding is part the commonwealth’s commitment to providing Pennsylvanians with transportation options that are cleaner, safer , and more reliable.  Twenty-nine projects in 19 counties across the state were selected to fill in gaps on the Alternative Fuel Corridors in the state. The $20 million federal investment is part of the $171.5 million PennDOT will receive and distribute for EV charging infrastructure over five years through the federal Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL).

ROAD SAFETY CONCERNS DURING ECLIPSE MONDAY

If you happen to be driving next Monday during the solar eclipse that is set to darken the skies between approximately 2pm and 4pm, the Pennsylvania State Police, PEMA and the PA Turnpike commission  advise motorists to be aware of conditions on the roadway especially if you are traveling toward Erie in northwestern PA.  State Police will be directing traffic off of the interstate shoulders and out of the rest stops Monday afternoon for safety reasons.  The City of Erie will have one of the longest periods of darkness from the eclipse as they are in the path of totality.  To find a location to watch the eclipse in western PA Monday go to Visit Erie dot com.

SPORTS

MLB
Guardians  4       Twins  2
Pirates  7             Nationals  4
Cardinals  8        Marlins 5
Game 1  Tigers  6        Mets  3/11
Game 2  Mets  2           Tigers  1

MLB Today
Toronto vs  NY Yankees  1pm
Orioles  vs Pittsburgh  4pm
Mets vs Cincinnati  6:30pm AppleTv+
Phillies vs Washington  6:45pm

NBA
76ers  109           Heat  105
Knicks  120        Kings  109
Mavericks  109  Hawks  95 
Warriors  133     Rockets  110
Clippers  102      Nuggets  100
NBA Tonight
Portland vs Washington  7pm
Sacramento vs Boston 7:30pm NBATv
Knicks vs Chicago  8pm
Minnesota vs Phoenix  10pm  NBATv

NHL
Panthers  6          Senators  0
Penguins  4         Capitals  1
Islanders  4         Blue Jackets  2

NHL Tonight
Flyers  vs Buffalo  7pm
NY Rangers  vs Detroit  7pm
Washington vs Carolina  7pm

NHL Saturday
Lightning vs Penguins  1pm ABC
Flyers vs Columbus  7pm


NCAA Women’s Final 4 Tonight
(3) NC State  vs (1) South Carolina  7pm ESPN
(3) UConn  vs (1) Iowa 9pm ESPN
NCAA Women’s Championship  Sunday, April 7th – 3pm

NCAA Men’s Final Four Saturday April 6
(11) NC State  vs (1) Purdue  6:09pm TBS
(4) Alabama vs (1) UConn  8:49pm TBS
NCAA Men’s Championship Monday, April 8th –  9:20pm

BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS APRIL 3, 2024

FLOOD WATCH THROUGH TOMORROW FOR NEPA

There’s a flood watch in effect through tomorrow morning for Lycoming County and other northeastern Pennsylvania counties according to the National Weather Service.  PennDOT is reporting some flooding this morning in Union County on 8th Street between Valley Road and Route 45 in Mifflinburg Borough.  Beaver Run Road is also reported to be flooding between Route 192 and Johnson Mill Road in Buffalo Township.  In addition, Bald Eagle Creek is approaching flood stage and residents are advised of a warning for minor flooding through Saturday morning.  As of this morning, Bald Eagle Creek near Beech Creek Station was at 9.8 feet with flood stage at 11 feet.  The river is expected to crest by midnight tonight at 12.9 feet.

ELDERLY COUPLE DIES IN UNION COUNTY ACCIDENT

The Union County coroner reports that two elderly residents were killed Monday after a traffic accident in Union Township.  According to State police, 72-year-old Jerry Bower and 60-year-old Etta Mendler-Bower who was his passenger were driving a small SUV when they allegedly pulled out in front of a pick-up truck driven by 19-year-old Remington Lenig at about 2:45pm at the intersection of Route 304 and Stein Lane.  Lenig and his passenger sustained minor injuries.  The Bowers died at the scene of the crash. 

MAN ACCUSED OF SEXUAL ASSAULT AGAINST MINOR PLEADS GUILTY

A Lamar Township man has pleaded guilty to second degree aggravated assault against a 9 year old girl, and will avoid the jury trial that was scheduled for him in Clinton County Court this upcoming May. According to the Clinton County District Attorney’s Office, 25 year old Emanuel King will face sentencing after the Pennsylvania Sexual Offenders Assessment board determines whether he is considered a violent sexual predator.  King was arrested in August of 2023 for aggravated assault charges and unlawful contact with a minor, against multiple victims under the age of 13.

SHAW PLACE PARK LOOKING FOR DESIGN PARTNERS

The City of Williamsport , as they make plans to upgrade and improve Shaw Place Park, are seeking  to partner with architectural consultants and design-build firms to create a space for a mountain bike skills park, which will  include an integrated  network of trails of various skill levels, and will complement the walking paths, and the recently completed Splash pad within the park.  According to the Sun Gazette, DCNR awarded the city over 220 thousand dollars for the park along Sheridan Street, and those who could provide professional design services have until April 22nd at 3pm to submit their proposals.

MAN WHO THREW CARSEAT INTO STREET GET PROBATION

A man from Williamsport has been given probation for throwing a car seat holding his 3-month old child in it into the street last April during an argument with the baby’s mother as part of a plea agreement in Lycoming County Court. The baby was unhurt.  According to the Sun Gazette, 30 year old Kadeem Middleton pleaded guilty to a count of disorderly conduct after originally being charged with felony child endangerment assault charges and resisting arrest.  Middleton will serve the 12 months and also be required to perform community service.

THEFT SUPECT FOUND ALSO TO BE SUSPECT IN A VEHICLE THEFT

A 34 year old former Scranton man who was apprehended and jailed for stealing items from a police cruiser parked at a car dealership near Muncy on February 25th, has been charged with unauthorized use of a vehicle from earlier that same day. According to the Sun Gazette, Jesse Greiner had stolen two ATV’s, taking one from a dealer along Legion Road first around 10:30 am and driving it from the store, then returning it, and taking another ATV for a ride before noon.  Police say Griner overturned the 2nd ATV near the location where police arrested him for the theft from the cruiser.  He is in Lycoming County Prison on 25 thousand dollars bail.

WATSONTOWN MUSEUM REOPENS

The Watsontown Historical Museum is reopened after they shut down for five months after part of the ceiling fell down in November, not causing  any injury, just a mess.  According to the Daily Item, volunteers worked to restore the museum that opened on Monday that features five connecting rooms that feature artifacts reflecting Watsontown’s history.  The Watsontown Historical Association used funds from a $150,000 Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED) grant to pay for the renovations. Get details at mywatsontown.com.

KULPMONT CLEAN UP DAY APRIL 20

A former Kulpmont Borough Councilman is spearheading an Earth Day clean-up of Veteran’s Memorial Field and other high-traffic areas on April 20th.  According to the Daily Item, Joseph Dowkus and interested volunteers are meeting Saturday the 20th at 8am for a clean up that Dowkus says is more than borough workers can keep up with.  Bags will be provided but participants are encouraged to wear gloves or bring tools like a trash grabber. Questions can be directed to Dowkus on Facebook at Sons of the American Legion page.  The Kulpmont clean-up is expected to last until noon.

SPORTS

NCAA Women’s Final 4 Friday, April 5
(3) NC State  vs (1) South Carolina  7pm
(3) UConn  vs (1) Iowa 9pm
NCAA Women’s Championship  Sunday April 3pm

NCAA Men’s Basketball Saturday 4/6
Final Four
(11) NC State  vs (1) Purdue  6:09pm TBS
(4) Alabama vs (1) UConn  8:49pm TBS
NCAA Men’s Championship Monday April 8 9:20pm

MLB
Guardians 5         Mariners 2
Brewers  3                     Twins 2
Royals  4              Orioles  1
Phillies  9             Reds  4
Red Sox  5                     A’s 4  /11
Diamondbacks  7           Yankees 0
Tigers vs Mets  postponed til Thursday

NBA
Lakers 128                     Raptors  111
Wizards  117        Bucks  113
76ers  109            Thunder  105
Heat  109             Knicks  99
Cavaliers  129      Jazz  113
Warriors  104       Mavericks  100
NBA Tonight
Oklahoma City vs Boston  7:30pm ESPN
Pacers vs Nets  7:30pm
Cleveland vs Phoenix 10pm ESPN

BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS APRIL 2, 2024

SOME CHARGES DROPPED FOR MAN ACCUSED OF DOUBLE HOMICIDE

Charges including six counts of forgery and three counts of identity theft have been dismissed against Troy Bailey, Sr., the man in jail as the shooter in the deaths of Alisha Seese and Ronald Dailey Jr. in Williamsport earlier this year,  but will face trial for theft by deception and making false statements.  According to the Sun Gazette, Bailey had used his son’s social security number to obtain employment and public assistance benefits, while his son serves a life sentence in Philadelphia for murder since 2019.  District judge Christian Frey dismissed the charges after being unable to determine whether Bailey, Jr. had given his father consent to use his information.  Bailey Sr. is awaiting trial on the double homicide that occurred January 11th, no date has been set.

TWO ACCIDENTS BACKED UP ROUTE 15

Two accidents happened moments apart at Route 15 and Pinchtown Road Monday morning which caused a backup on Route 15 while officials cleared the scene.  According to the Sun Gazette,  Clinton Township fire officials responded to the first crash at about 9am in which a Saturn allegedly pulled out in front of a Sheetz tanker truck heading north and was struck.  A few minutes later in the same location, a Kia was struck from behind by a van traveling southbound on Route 15.  All four occupants of the vehicles involved in the two crashes were transported by ambulance to UPMC Williamsport with minor injuries.  State police have begun an investigation into the wrecks.

CHECK DISPUTE BETWEEN PRODUCTION COMPANY, WINERY

The owner of Spyglass Ridge Winery says a dispute over a check sent to pay entertainment at the venue that the production company believed to be invalid, has brought about an investigation.  According to the Daily Item, the winery owner, Tom Webb says the company who represents a band that they had hired, questioned the validity of the 24 thousand dollar check they had sent for payment and called state police.  Webb says he spoke to state police recently and was made aware of the situation and says the two parties are on the way to resolving the issue.  No charges have been filed.

BLIGHTED GROUND EARMARKED FOR ATHLETIC FIELDS

The former Susquehanna Supply property in Williamsport is set to be converted into athletic fields after the Lycoming County commissioners approved a blight remediation program for the multi-field complex for $1 million.  According to North Central PA dot com,  22 million dollars of American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds that have been set aside specifically for recreation with  the one million dollar commitment from the Williamsport/Lycoming Chamber of Commerce and the City of Williamsport also contributing $1 million to the project, with funds secured from ARPA.  Construction for seven fields for youth baseball, softball, and Penn College athletics is set to begin in June.

MOTHER FATALLY STABBED BY TEEN OVER PHONE DISPUTE

A thirteen year old girl from Wilkes-Barre was taken into custody last week after she stabbed her bother and fatally stabbed her mother during an argument over her phone.  According to North Central PA dot, court records say 13 year old Lataya Powell called 911 after the incident happened Friday at about 12:30pm, and first responders found 44 year old Tameeka Tucker deceased with multiple stab-wounds, along with a wounded 11 year old sibling nearby.  He was taken to Geisinger Wyoming Valley and is expected to survive.  Police say while in custody, Powell expressed disbelief that she killed her mother, but was charged with criminal homicide, two counts of aggravated assault, and tampering with evidence for throwing the knife she used onto a neighbor’s property.

BUCKNELL STUDENT DEATH UNDER INVESTIGATION

The death of the student Saturday at Bucknell University is under investigation, but no additional details will be released, according to the Union County Coroner Dominick Adamo.  Officials said the student found Saturday at an address on University Avenue was identified as 22-year-old Christian Samay of Mountain Lakes, New Jersey who was set to graduate this spring.  Bucknell University President John Bravman cancelled classes yesterday over the tragedy.  Police do not consider Samay’s death suspicious and counselors are available for those students and community members who need support 570-577-1604.

SURVEY WORK TO START ON ROUTE 15 THIS MONTH

A survey crew is set to work soon in Lycoming County along Route 15 in both directions in Armstrong and Clinton townships. According to PennDOT, starting April 22nd, a crew will kick off survey work to continue through May 10th on Route 15 between Old Montgomery Pike Road and Route 54. The shoulder work should have no impact on traffic, as they are on the site Mondays through Fridays between 6:30am and 3pm, weather permitting. You can check conditions on major roadways 24/7 at 511PA dot com.

TROUT DERBY THIS WEEKEND IN PAXINOS

Children and their families are invited to the pond at the 13th hole at Indian Hills Golf Club in Paxinos for a two-day trout derby on April 6th and 7th starting at 9am both days. According to the News Item, fishing poles will be available for children up to age 12 to use for free, and there will be free hotdogs and other snacks for participants. John Grundon, a co-owner of Indian Hills Golf Course said about 100 children participated in last year’s derby, and those who want to pre-register this year can call 570-554-5650. 

SPORTS

NCAA Women’s Basketball Monday Elite 8/Regions 2&3
Caitlin Clark led her team to a victory last night in Albany, NY
Iowa 94                                 LSU 87
UConn has made it to the Final 4 a record 23 times
UConn 80             USC  73
NCAA Women’s Final 4 Friday, April 5
(3) NC State  vs (1) South Carolina  7pm
(3) UConn  vs (1) Iowa 9pm

NCAA Men’s Basketball Saturday 4/6
Final Four
(11) NC State  vs (1) Purdue  6:09pm TBS
(4) Alabama vs (1) UConn  8:49pm TBS
NCAA Men’s Championship Monday 9:20pm 4/8

NBA
Celtics  118                           Hornets 104
Grizzlies  110        Pistons  108
Pacers 133                            Nets  111
Magic  104                            Trail Blazers 103
Hawks  113          Bulls  101
Suns  124             Pelicans  111


NBA Tonight
Milwaukee vs Washington 7pm
Oklahoma City vs 76ers  7:30pm TNT
Dallas vs Golden State 10pm TNT


MLB
Mariners  5            Guardians  4
Pirates  8                Nationals 4
Orioles  6               Royals  4
Reds  6  Phillies  3
Tigers 5                  Mets  0
Yankees  5            Diamondbacks  2
Dodgers  8             Giants  3

MLB Tonight
Cincinnati vs Phillies 6:40pm TBS
San Francisco vs LA Dodgers 10:10pm TBS

NHL
Penguins  5            NY Rangers  2
Islanders  4                           Flyers  3

NHL Tonight
Washington vs Buffalo  7pm
Pens vs NJ Devils  7pm
Chicago vs NY Islanders  7:30p

BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS APRIL 1, 2024

INVESTIGATION STARTS AFTER BUCKNELL STUDENT DEATH

A Bucknell University student was found deceased on campus Saturday but authorities say the death is not being considered suspicious.  According to Bucknell Public safety officers, they were called to conduct a death investigation at 78 University Avenue in Lewisburg.  Later, Bucknell University President John Bravman said in a statement that Bucknell senior, Christian Samay, was the individual they found.   This news comes after a campus lockdown resulted from reports of an active shooter on campus Friday afternoon that turned out to be a hoax.  If any student needs support, on-call counselors are available at 570-577-1604.

WOMAN ACCUSED OF DUI IN JERSEY SHORE

A woman who was driving under the influence and allegedly rear-ended a vehicle that had exited before her at the Thomas Street off-ramp of Interstate 220 in Jersey Shore was taken into custody last Wednesday.  According to North Central PA dot com, Lycoming Regional police say 60 year old Linda McCormick hit the vehicle in front of her and when the police arrived to the scene she had become combative with the driver of the other vehicle, blaming them for the accident, and then fought with officers who stated she smelled of alcohol.  Officials say after a blood draw at Jersey Shore Hospital, McCormick’s blood alcohol level was .212%  She is charged with aggravated assault and other assault charges, disorderly conduct, DUI and more with bail set at 45 thousand dollars monetary.

SINK HOLE IN SNYDER COUNTY

A sink hole in Snyder County has brought about a detour for traffic there this morning.  According to PennDOT, the sink hole was discovered three miles west of the Mifflin/Snyder County line and Specht Street is closed is both directions between West Street in McClure Borough, and Summit Road in Mifflin County.  Traffic is being detoured via Helfrick Road or West Street, Stuck Street and Route 522 South.

ARW OFFERING PICK-UP EASTER MONDAY DINNERS

The American Rescue workers in Williamsport are providing a walk-up or drive-up Easter meal for the community today from 4 to 6pm.  According to the Sun Gazette, the rescue worker volunteers will provide around 500 meals  that will be distributed this afternoon from the Furniture Loading dock at 643 Elmira St.  Everyone is welcome and no sign-up is required.

SERIOUS ROLLOVER ACCIDENT IN TIOGA COUNTY INJURES THREE

Two people were ejected from a vehicle and 1 was trapped during a roll-over  accident in Tioga County Saturday afternoon in the area of Route 6 near Westgate Road in Richmond Township.  According to First News Now, PA State police report that a black pickup truck rolled over multiple times and two people were ejected from the windshield and another tapped inside after the vehicle came to rest on its wheels in a nearby yard.  Route 6 was closed and traffic detoured as Mansfield Hose Company and EMS crews from Mansfield, Wellsboro and Blossburg responded.  Two Life Flight helicopters transported the two ejected victims to a Williamsport hospital and the third patient was transported by ambulance to Robert Packer Hospital in Sayre.  No word on the conditions of the accident victims today.

MAN HITS WIFE WITH CAR, RUNS HER OVER TWICE

A man from Renovo is free on bail after being charged for hitting his wife with his vehicle then running her over twice.  According to North Central PA dot com, police say 66 year old James Leroy Butler’s believes he ran her over on purpose the night of March 17th while they were leaving a local bar on Gratzmer Avenue.  State police report that Butler reversed his vehicle and struck his wife and she fell to the ground when he ran over her arm and then backed over her a second time, leading the victim to seek treatment the next morning with Butler allegedly refusing to help.  Butler was charged March 18th with aggravated assault by vehicle, simple assault, recklessly endangerment, and more.

CAR INTO BUILDING IN LOYALSOCK TOWNSHIP

CAR INTO BUILDING IN LOYALSOCK TOWNSHIP
A car smashed the side of a building near the Golden strip in Williamsport Saturday morning.  According to the Sun Gazette, an employee at Future Nails near East Third Street on Eck Circle, was injured after the car came through the wall of the business just before 10am, and she was transported to UPMC Williamsport for treatment.  The driver of the car and her passenger were uninjured in the accident.  The nail business will remain closed until Loyalsock Townhsip codes officials can inspect the building for safety.

KEYNOTE SPEAKER SET FOR SUSQUEHANNA SPRING COMMENCEMENT

A graduate of Susquehanna University and the deputy archivist of the United States will speak at the 166th commencement as the keynote speaker this May.  According to eh Daily Item, William “Jay” Bosanko  who graduated from SU in 1992 will deliver the address on May 18 in front of 475 prospective graduates  in the Robert I. Estill Field House.  Bosanko will also receive an honorary Doctor of Humane Letters degree at the ceremony, he had already been recognized with the Alumni of Distinction Achievement Award in 2021.

SPORTS

NASCAR  Sunday – Toyota Owners 400
Denny Hamlin won the race after a caution with two laps to go and won in overtime at Richmond Raceway in Richmond, VA.
Joey Logano was 2nd, Kyle Larson – 3rd, Martin Truex, Jr. 4th, and Chase Elliot  5th.

NCAA Men’s Basketball
Elite 8 Midwest/ South
(1) Purdue  72  (2) Tennessee  66
(11) NC State 76  (4) Duke  64
NCAA Men’s Basketball Saturday 4/6
Final Four
(11) NC State  vs (1) Purdue  6:09pm TBS
(4) Alabama vs (1) UConn  8:49pm TBS
NCAA Men’s Championship Monday 9:20pm 4/8

MLB
A’s  4                   Guardians  3
Angels  4            Orioles  1
Phillies  5            Braves  4
Brewers  4           Mets  1
Pirates  9             Marlins  7
Reds 6                 Nationals  5
Yankees 4           Astros  3
Red Sox 5           Mariners  1
MLB Today
Pittsburgh vs Washington  4:05pm
Cincinnati  vs Philly  6:40pm
Detroit  vs Mets  7:10 pm
Yankees  vs Arizona  9:40pmNHL
Canucks  3  Ducks  2
NHL Today
Penguins vs Rangers  7pm in Madison Square Garden, NY
Islanders vs Flyers 7pm

BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS MARCH 27, 2024

FATAL UNION COUNTY ACCIDENT

One man from Lewisburg was killed in a crash yesterday involving two vehicles.  According to the Daily Item, the Union County Coroner said 37 year old Chad Terry was declared deceased at the scene after he was ejected from one of the cars that crashed before 5pm at the 1500 block of Col. John Kelly Road.  Another individual was transported via Life Flight to Geisinger Medical Center in Danville, but Milton State Police did not release any more information about the individuals involved in the accident as they worked to reconstruct the scene which closed Col. John Kelly Road in both directions from Hospital Drive to the entrance to Stolzfus’ grain silos.  Evangelical EMS, and William Cameron Fire Rescue 1 and 2 responded to the crash.

POLICE ARREST LOCK HAVEN MAN WITH WARRANT

A Lock Haven man has been charged after he ignored an attempted traffic stop by Williamsport City Police in February.  According to the Lock Haven express, Vincent Anthony Mauck was followed by police since they were seeking him for a state police arrest warrant on drug charges.  Police apprehended Mauck and took him into custody at the 300 block of Park Avenue after a struggle. Mauck was first taken to the state police barracks in Montoursville, then committed to Clinton County prison on 75 thousand dollars bail.

CLINTON COUNTY MANUFACTURER CONTINUES EXPANSION

Broadart in McElhattan will close up shop in the next few months to make way for First Quality Products to expand more of their facilities in Clinton County.  According to the News Item, Broadart’s contents and equipment were sold to Toledo Furniture based in Stroudsburg, PA this year and about 40 people are affected by the closing with 10 employees being asked to stay on with the Stroudsburg company. First Quality purchased the buildings and acreage for $12.5 million on February 6th, and remain Clinton County’s largest employer with no public announcement yet on what they plan to do with the space. 

APRIL BIDS COMING FOR MIDD-WEST ATHLETIC STADIUM

Midd-West School District will soon be soliciting bids for a multi-million dollar athletic field and stadium project at the Middleburg campus, the fourth phase of which had just been reviewed by the school board this week.  According to the Daily Item, bids for the proposed field house will start in April and with an approved bid, construction could start in May .  The new construction is expected to include restrooms, locker rooms, a weight room and concession area with five serving windows. 

POLICE SEEK SUSPECT IN ATTEMPTED ROBBERY IN MUNCY

A suspect is being sought by police after police say they broke into two properties in Muncy on or around March 22nd.  According to the Sun Gazette, there was an attempted burglary at JL Winters Jewelers on John Brady Drive in Muncy Creek Township early in the morning, when a person broke glass and tried to reach into the store to steal items between 6 and 6:30am.  Shortly after, the suspect allegedly broke into a garage nearby by breaking a window, but no items were reported taken.  Police say they fled toward Muncy Borough, and was wearing a dark colored jacket with a hood, blue jeans and black and tan boots.  If you have any information call police.

INVESTIGATION INTO THEFT OF A SAFE IN LOYALSOCK

Police are investigating a theft that occurred at a property in Loyalsock Township in February.  According to North Central PA dot com, State police at Montoursville say someone broke into a property along Freedom Road in Williamsport  and stole a safe.  The victim of the theft said there was more than 30 thousand dollars inside the safe along with 700 dollars-worth of coins.  If you have any information about the theft of the safe, or the suspect, contact state police Montoursville at 570 368-5700.

MAN CHARGED AFTER FIGHT AT BASKETBALL GAME

Following an investigation by Lycoming Regional Police into a fight that broke out at a Jersey Shore vs Milton basketball game on January 11th, a west Milton man has been charged with assault on a sports official and disorderly conduct.  According to the Sun Gazette, a police citation says 42 year old Brian Hunter ran from the stands  with others during the final minutes of the game as two players started fighting and he allegedly grabbed a coach who was on the ground, pulling him and then lifting him by his neck. In a statement to the Milton school board, Hunter alleged instances of discrimination and racism toward his son, and questioned why he was the only parent charged.  Both school districts denounced the violent behavior at the game.

PRICE FOR FISHING LICENSES GOING UP FOR 2024       

The PA Fish and Boat Commission plan to raise fishing license prices again in 2024 after the State legislature did not increase the fee from for over 15 years until last year.  According to the PFBC, they were granted the ability to set license fees starting in 2020, and waited through COVID to raise prices with more than 790,000 fishing licenses sold last year.  The regular 2024 fishing season gets underway at 8 a.m. April 6, but PA’s annual Mentored Youth Trout Day is March 30 from 8am till 7:30pm.  Children and their  guardians should pick up a Voluntary Youth Fishing Licenses and  free Mentored Youth Trout Permit – find out more at fish and boat dot com.

SPORTS

PIAA HS Sports

Baseball
So. Wmsport 15   Lewisburg 5 (5 innings)
Midd-West 9        Loyalsock 4
Montgomery 11   Sugar Val Rural Charter 1
St. John Neumann 6      Bucktail 5
NP-Mansfield 9    Wellsboro 6

Softball
Shikellamy 8        Shamokin 7
Warrior Run 11    Milton 0
Muncy 5               Southern Columbia 0
NP-Liberty 15      Wellsboro 0 (4 innings)
Jersey Shore 15    Montoursville 5
Sullivan Co. 21    Millville 0 (3 innings)


NCAA Men’s Basketball March Madness
Thursday, March 28 Sweet 16/ East & West
(6) Clemson  vs (2) Arizona 7pm CBS
(5) San  Diego State  vs (1) UConn  7:30pm TBS/TruTv
(4) Alabama  vs (1) UNC 9:30pm CBS
(3) Illinois vs (2) Iowa State 10pm TBS TruTv

NBA

Warriors  113     Heat  92
Lakers  128         Bucks  124
Thunder  119      Pelicans  112
Mavericks  132  Kings  96

NBA Tonight
Cavaliers vs Hornets  7pm
Nets vs Wizards  7pm
Clippers  vs 76ers  7:30pm ESPN
NY Knicks  vs Raptors  7:30pm
Suns vs Nuggets  10pm ESPN

NHL
Bruins  4             Panthers 3
Rangers  6           Flyers  5
Penguins  4         Hurricanes  1
Capitals 4            Red Wings  3
Devils  6              Maple Leafs  3

NHL Tonight
Ottawa vs Buffalo  7pm
Boston  vs Tampa Bay 7:30pm TNT

BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS MARCH 26, 2024

CRASH CAUSED BY MEDICAL EMERGENCY

A truck crash that blocked the northbound lane of  Route 287 in Pine Township last Thursday morning was allegedly caused by a medical emergency.  According to the Sun Gazette, 64 year old  Richard L. Masorti of Flemington was traveling southbound on Route 287 around 11am when he failed to negotiate a curve and swerved between the north and southbound lanes before the truck turned on its passenger side, sliding south along the northbound guiderail.  Police say Masorti was not wearing a seatbelt and sustained minor injuries from the crash, but that a medical issue may have been the catalyst in the accident.  He was taken to Geisinger Jersey Shore for treatment and the truck had to be towed from the scene.  Morris Volunteer Fire Department responded to the wreck.   

SUSPECT IN 2021 SUNBURY MURDER WANTS CHANGE OF VENUE

The homeless man from Sunbury who is on trial for allegedly killing three people in 2021 from a dispute over a car deal, and who recently filed an unsuccessful motion that he hadn’t tried in a timely manner in Northumberland County court, wants a change of venue in a move to have the death penalty  against him dropped.  According to the Daily Item, a defense team for 26 year old Matthew Reed, who remains incarcerated,  asked for the hearing to be moved to benefit Reed’s emotional health and well-being.  A hearing will be scheduled on the venue change, with Reed’s trial tentatively scheduled for this fall.

PENNDOT PREPPING FOR BRIDGE PROJECT

This Thursday, a portion of the two-year roadway project will continue along Interstate 180 east and westbound in Montoursville Borough, and Loyalsock, Fairfield, and Muncy townships. According to PennDOT, a contractor will be performing repairs on a bridge joint on I-180 eastbound over the Muncy Creek in Muncy Township. Watch for the right  lane to be restricted between 7am and 2pm weather permitting.

SALVATION ARMY THRIFT STORE IN LOCK HAVEN CLOSING

After years of operating losses the Salvation Army in Lock haven has made the decision to close the thrift store on East Main Street as of May 18th.  According to the Lock Haven Express, the Salvation Army Lock Haven Corps says the location would need thousands of dollars in repair to continue to operate safely, and that they are seeking partnerships with other community organizations to continue to provide essential services to those who have come to rely on the Salvation Army there.  Find the Lock Haven Corps online for information or questions easternus.salvationarmy.org  /eastern-pennsylvania/lock-haven/.

MAN WHO THREATENED TENANT GIVEN JAIL TIME

The husband of the woman who was charged and sentenced  last fall for terroristic threats, simple assault, and firearms charges for threatening a tenant while trying to evict them in Dunnstable township, was given 20-84 months in jail last week.  According to North Central PA dot com , police say 54 year old William Laubscher and his wife Candy, who was sentenced to 144 months in prison on the same charges, had begun eviction proceedings against the tenant but allegedly chose to enter the residence and threaten the 19 year old woman who lived  there. The Laubschers fled from Pennsylvania while released on bail and later were found in North Carolina last July before being brought back to Lycoming County to face trial.

MAN ARRESTED AFTER ALLEGED STRANGULATION

A Montgomery man was charged with strangulation, aggravated assault, simple assault, recklessly endangering another person, DUI and other charges after police say he assaulted a woman while drunk at a home along State Route 15 and left the property.  According to North Central PA dot com, 33 year old Andrew Robert Buck, was arrested at the Sheetz in Montgomery about 11pm March 9th after the victim called the police about the physical altercation that happened earlier in the day.  Buck admits to the DUI charges but denies that he assaulted the woman by strangulation,  He is being held at the Lycoming County Prison on $50,000 monetary bail.

BRIDGE WORK ON ROUTE 220 THIS WEEK

The bridge replacement and rehabilitation project will continue this week along Route 220 in Woodward Township during off peak hours . This project replaced the northbound structure carrying Route 220 over the Fourth Street off ramp and rehabilitated northbound structures over Antlers Lane and the Lycoming Valley Railroad during the 2023 construction season, and next week, there will be sign work along both the Route 220 northbound and southbound lanes in preparation for upcoming construction. The southbound structures are scheduled to be completed by this fall.

DIGITAL SAFETY PROGRAM AT LEWISBURG HIGH SCHOOL

An agent from the Federal bureau of investigation will be the guest presenting a special program at Lewisburg Area High School on April 16 to learn more about digital safety for middle schoolers According to the Daily Item, parents and guardians who participate will learn valuable tips about online safety for youth, using social media and apps; recognizing dangerous situations and types of communication trends.  The event hosted by Transitions of PA will be at 6 p.m. April 16 at the high school auditorium on Newman Road in Lewisburg.

SPORTS

PIAA HS Sports
Softball
Loyalsock Township  23      Lewisburg  1

NCAA Men’s Basketball March Madness
Thursday, March 28 Sweet 16/ East & West
(6) Clemson  vs (2) Arizona 7pm CBS
(5) San  Diego State  vs (1) UConn  7:30pm TBS/TruTv
(4) Alabama  vs (1) UNC 9:30pm CBS
(3) Illinois vs (2) Iowa State 10pm TBS TruTv

NBA
Cavaliers 115     Hornets  92
Hawks  120         Celtics  118
Knicks  124        Pistons  99
Nets  96               Raptors  88
Wizards  107      Bulls 105
Spurs 104           Suns  102
Kings  108          76ers  96
NBA Tonight
LA Lakers  vs Milwaukee Bucks  7:30pm TNT
Dallas vs Sacramento  10pm TNTNHL
Golden Knights 2        Blues  1
Kings  3                        Canucks  2
NHL Tonight
Flyers vs NY Rangers  7pm
Hurricanes vs Penguins  7pm
Red Wings vs Capitals  7pm
Devils vs Maple Leafs 7:30pm ESPN+/Hulu

BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS MARCH 25, 2024

UNDERCOVER POLICE CHARGE WILLIAMSPORT MAN

A Williamsport man was charged with possession with intent to deliver after he sold cocaine to undercover officers at the end of 2023.  According to North Cetntral PA dot com, 32 year old Trevor Daniel Fraboni, 32, exchanged drugs with investigators from  Lycoming County from November of last year to January totalling over 10 thousand dollars.  Fraboni is also being charged with criminal use of a communication facility and is free on $10,000 unsecured bail.

ACCIDENT CAUSED AFTER DRIVER SWERVES FOR CAT

A vehicle accident last Wednesday on Route 405 was allegedly caused when one driver tried to keep from hitting a cat.  According to the Sun Gazette, police say tWo women from Muncy, 65 year old Elizabeth Johnson and 33 year old Tiffany Solomon collided just before 7am in the southbound lane near the 2500 block of Route 405 at about 45 miles per hour.  Both cars needed to be towed from the scene, and Johnson required hospitalization for a foot injury and was charged with a traffic violation in the incident. Solomon declined treatment at the scene.

SOLAR ENERGY PROJECT IN CLEARFIELD COUNTY

Federal officials are injecting 90 million dollars into a solar energy project in Clearfield County, PA, one of five other solar projects across the country .  According to the Sun Gazette,  Mineral Basin Solar Power says Clearfield County’s former mines offer an unparalleled opportunity to repurpose reclaimed mine land for solar development.  The project expects to create more than 750 construction and operations jobs.  The funds from the Department of Energy will help Mineral Basin partner with Clearfield County Community Technical Center and Penn State University to add benefits and job training by engaging with local leaders, colleges, and apprentice programs.

ECLIPSE PRGRAMS AT UNION COUNTY STATE PARK

Raymond B Winter State park is planning two solar eclipse programs next week prior to the eclipse event April 8th.  According to the Daily Item, one program will be March 30th called Exploring Eclipses, and the other a DIY Eclipse projector class will be April 3rd at the Environmental Learning Center. The classes are recommended for homeschool students children and teens. Register for the April 3rd event and get information at events.dcnr.pa.gov.

MAN ARRESTED FOR THREATENING TO BURN DOWN HOUSE

A domestic incident at a residence in Gregg Township, brought police to investigate after a victim alleged an Allenwood man threatened to burn down the house before 1am on March 20th.  According to State police at Milton, 30 year old Zachary Delroy Reaser was taken into custody for terroristic threats, resisting arrest and more.  A 16 year old minor was also present when the man threatened and one person in the home was injured according to police.  Reaser was taken to Union County Prison on 25 thousand dollars bail.

MISSING TRAVEL TRAILER FROM RETAIL LOT

A 38 foot long Jayco travel trailer is missing from the storage parking lot of an RV retailer along Lycoming Creek Road.  According to Lycoming Regional Police Department they were contacted by the owner of Rhones RV who said the theft occurred Sometime between February 6th and March 19th.  The camper is grey over white with three slide-out sections and no windows on the driver’s side.  Call 911 if you spot the 2022 Jayco 34RSBS RV; use the case number 24-1129.

BRIDGE INSPECTION FOR FUTURE PROJECT

A bridge inspection project will start next week on Lewisburg River Bridge between Lewisburg Borough, Union County and West Chillisquaque Township, Northumberland Borough and the Route 642 bridges over the West Branch Susquehanna River between Northumberland County and Kelly Township. According to PennDOT, starting Monday, March 25th, a contractor will be performing bridge sounding work in preparation for an upcoming bridge preservation project during daylight hours, weather permitting, and will take about one week to complete.

DUMP OPEN FOR SPRING CLEANING

Sunbury has the Sunbury Clean Sweep this week for residents who want to take advantage of cleaning out attics or basements.  According to the Daily Item, city officials say there will be a free drop off for unwanted items Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday, from 1pm until 7pm at the Sunbury Municipal Authority proof of residency in Sunbury.  Items not being accepted include  household garbage, appliances with Freon, hazardous materials, brush, contractor waste, items containing asbestos, tires and liquids of any kind.  Call with questions 570-286-7820.

SPORTS

NASCAR
William Byron took the checkered flag on Sunday at the Circuit of the Americas in Austin, Texas.
Christopher Bell was 2nd, Ty Gibbs 3rd, Alex Bowman 4th and Tyler Reddick rounded out the Top 5.
NCAA Wrestling    
Lock Haven’s Anthony Noto finished the 2024 NCAA Division 1 Wrestling Championship tournament in Missouri  with a record of 5-1, placing 3rd at 125.  He has a career record at Lock Haven 87-10.

NCAA Men’s Basketball March Madness
2nd Round Sunday
(1) Purdue 106               (8) Utah St 67
(1) UConn 75                 (9) Northwestern  58
(1) Houston 100            (9) Texas A&M 95
(2) Marquette  81                     (10) Colorado  77
(6) Clemson  72              (3) Baylor  64
(4) Duke  93                   (12) James Madison  55
(4) Alabama  72            (12) Grand Canyon  61
(5) San Diego St  85      (13) Yale  57

NBA
Pelicans  114        Pistons  101
76ers  121            Clippers 107
Heat  121             Cavaliers  84
Bucks  118                     Thunder  93
Timberwolves  114  Warriors  110 
Lakers  150          Pacers 145
NBA Tonight
Boston vs Atlanta 7:30pm NBAtv
Detroit vs NY Knicks  7:30pm
Washington vs Chicago  8pm
76ers  vs Sacramento  10pm  NBAtv
NHL
Capitals  3                     Jets  0
Avalanche  5        Penguins 4
Devils  4               NY Islanders  0
Senators  5                     Oilers 3
Panthers  4                     Flyers  1

NHL Tonight
Vegas vs St Louis 8pm NHL Net
LA Kings  vs Vancouver  9pm ESPN+

BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS MARCH 20, 2024

MAN WHO VIOLATED PFA IN RENOVO THREATENS AGAIN

A Renovo man who was arrested in February and ordered to stay away from an Allison Township residence due to a previous PFA, was arrested again for threatening to kill a woman with her own gun March 6th.  According to North Central PA dot com, 31 year old Adam Shaffer went to the vicitm’s home along the 900 block of Renovo Road just after he had been released from prison from his previous charge. Shaffer had her gun when the victim arrived, and fired it inside her home several times during an argument.  The woman eventually escaped and was able to call 911.  Police arrived and took Shaffer into custody.

JUDGE SAYS HOMICIDE SUSPECT IS DETAINED LEGALLY

A Mount Carmel man was recently denied a Rule 600 motion after being accused of attempted homicide in 2022.  According to the Daily Item, lawyers for 38 year old Bruce Thompson argued that he was not brought to trial by the state Attorney General’s Office within 180 days, but the judge determined that the state was in the required timeline over the past two years because of filings by the defense.  Thompson was arrested after he allegedly shot at a victim in May of 2022 along South Poplar Street in Sunbury and then fled causing a crash at Second and Plum streets.  Police charged Thompson with felony attempted homicide, and other assault charges. He remains in Northumberland County Jail.

FIRE IN DUSHORE DISPLACES EIGHT

Eight tenants were displaced Tuesday after a fire broke out in a multi unit Victorian along Route 487 in Dushore.  According to the Sun Gazette, a safety officer for the Mildred Volunteer Fire Company was nearby and noticed smoke coming from the structure around the same time the call was dispatched just after noon, and he assisted in getting the residents out of the home.  Firefighters discovered flames in a second floor apartment bathroom and extinguished the fire within 15 minutes.   There was water damage to the home at 201 Bernice Road, but officials say most tenants should be back in their apartment within a few weeks.  The Red Cross is assisting the families who were displaced.

ROAD WORK IN COLUMBIA COUNTY SCHEDULED TODAY

There is a lane restriction this week on I-80 eastbound in Scott Township, Columbia County, for a soil remediation project due to a previous crash.  A contractor will be working today eastbound at mile marker 237, just east of the Buckhorn interchange.  Watch for the left lane and shoulder to be restricted between the hours of 8am and 5pm weather permitting.

SOUTHSIDE WOMAN ARRESTED AFTER AGGRESSIVE BEHAVIOR

A woman from South Williamsport was arrested by police after she originally called them to complain about her neighbors causing a disturbance, but after a confrontation with the officers she was arrested and taken into custody. According to the Sun Gazette, Megan Butler called police last Wednesday evening saying she feared for her life from her neighbor’s harassment, but when police questioned the neighbors, they showed a video of Butler yelling toward them from out of an open upstairs window.  When police asked her to stop yelling, Butler raised he voice at officers and began acting aggressively, even striking an officer with a metal exterior door before she resisted arrest and had to be carried to the police cruiser.  She was jailed at Lycoming County Prison in lieu of 50 thousand dollars bail.

INMATE FLUSHED BEDSHEETS

A Northumberland County Prison inmate is facing a felony count of institutional vandalism and misdemeanor criminal mischief after he flushed bedsheets down the toilet to force officers to move him from his cell.  According to North Central PA dot com, 19 year old James Heller told officers he would find a way to make them move his location, and allegedly caused the sewer backup before he admitted to the incident.  A plumber found the sheets in the sewer system which cost almost 5 hundred dollar to reapir.  Heller awaits an arraignment in Northumberland County Court.

TARGET TO LIMIT SELF-CHECKOUT

Over 2000 Target locations nationwide are changing the way they offer check-out lanes in their stores.  According to North Cetnral PA dot com, since their Express Self-Checkout came about during the COVID-19 pandemic, store executives said they expanded the service.  They are now making a change back to more traditional check-out experiences according to corporate.target.com.  One change includes limiting express self check-out to 10 items or less as well as expanding traditional lanes staffed by employees.

CONTRACT APPROVED TO FIND NEW POLICE CHIEF

A $6,000 contract to assist in finding a new police chief was approved by the Buffalo Valley Regional Police Commission last week. According to the Daily Item, the contract with the Pennsylvania Chiefs of Police Association was approved to find a successor to current police chief Paul Yost. Yost plans to retire this coming January after holding the position since 2012. The association has a 30-day period to accept applications for a hiring process that can take as long as four months to complete.

SPORTS

PIAA HS Sports
Softball
Mifflinburg 13               Selinsgrove  3
Baseball
So. Columbia 10            Lewisburg  1
Boys Lacrosse 
Lewisburg 21                 Mifflinburg  0
Selinsgrove 22               Lake-Lehman  3

NBA

Magic  112          Hornets  92
Rockets  137       Wizards  114
Pelicans 104       Nets  91
Mavericks 113  Spurs  107
Nuggets  115      Timberwolves  112

NBA Tonight
Milwaukee vs  Boston  7:30pm ESPN
Phila 76ers vs Phoenix Suns 10pm
Memphis vs Golden Stater  10pm ESPN

NHL
Bruins  6             Senators 2
Red Wings 4       Blue Jackets 3
Devils  5              Penguins  2
Jets  4                  Rangers  2
Flyers  4              Maple Leafs 3
Hurricanes  4      Islanders  1
Oilers  3              Canadiens 2 OT

NHL Tonight
Toronto  Maple Leafs vs Washington  Capitals 7:30pm TNT
Minnesota Wild vs LA Kings  10pm TNT

NHL News
Former NHL winger Chris Simon has died at 52. In a statement, his family revealed their belief that Simon suffered from CTE (Chronic traumatic encephalopathy)  which contributed to his death by suicide Tuesday.  Simon spent the bulk of his career with the Washington Capitals and scored a career-high 29 goals and 49 points during the 1999-2000 season. He would also play for the Chicago Blackhawks, New York Rangers, Calgary Flames, Islanders and Minnesota Wild over his career.

BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS MARCH 19, 2024

UNION COUNTY POLICE SEARCH FOR MAN WHO SKIPPED COURT

Police have issued an arrest warrant for a suspect in a 2020 shooting in East Buffalo Township who wasn’t at his a pre-trial hearing last week in Union County court.  According to North Central PA dot com, when 27 year old Julio Gonzalez failed to appear in court for attempted homicide charges last week, Union County Judge Michael Piecuch issued a felony bench warrant for Gonzalez’s arrest.  He was allegedly involved in a drive-by shooting that injured 22 year old Daevon Bodden and another man who were sitting outside of a home on West Market Street.  Police say Bodden returned fire, which didn’t injure anyone but caused damage to some property in the area.

FOSTER MOTHER CHARGED WITH ABUSE

A foster mother from Cogan Station has her preliminary hearing April 17th after authorities charged her with 11 counts of felony child endangerment and 11 counts of simple assault for abusing a 5 year old non-verbal autistic girl in her Quenshukeny Road home over the course of a year.  According to North Central PA dot com, experts say while in the care of 24 year old Jeanette Hunsberger, the child suffered injuries consistent with abuse and according to an independent review by child abuse experts, once she was taken from her care the child’s physical condition improved, a sign of previous abuse. 

PA LOTTERY SYSTEM UPGRADE TODAY

The PA Department of Revenue, the bureau that manages the Pennsylvania Lottery, has announced that a system upgrade is taking place today that will keep retail customers from buying any Fast Play tickets or Draw Game tickets at lottery retail locations or online.  Scratch-Off tickets will be available with cash at the counter and at vending machines at lottery retailers, and payouts will be paused during the update as well. The process began at midnight and will continue into today with updates about the system progress announced on social media sites and the PA lottery Website at  Palottery.com.

DANVILLE HS STUDENTS TO HOLD BASKETBALL FUNDRAISER

Students involved in the Danville Area High School’s Students Preserving Mental Health club are sponsoring a ‘Hoops for Mental Health’ fundraiser where students and district staff will compete together on the court.  During the game, a special message will be presented at halftime to let those who suffer from mental health issues know they are not alone.  The game is Saturday March 23rd  at 6pm in the Danville High School Gym, and costs 5 dollars for adults and 3 dollars for students and will feature concessions, a 50/50 and a basket raffle.

MAN THREATENS WOMAN AT HER SELINSGROVE WORKPLACE

A man from Selinsgrove is in custody after threatening a woman with a gun at her workplace last week.  According to the Daily Item, 35 year old Brendan Lafferty came to the woman’s workplace and forced her to text and call his girlfriend.  When the victim asked what would happen if she didn’t contact the girlfriend,  he allegedly showed a pistol from under the seat.  After Lafferty left the business in Monroe Township, he was apprehended at a downtown Selinsgrove business.  He was charged with misdemeanor terroristic threats and simple assault and is in Snyder County Jail in lieu of 25 thousand dollars bail.

LIFE IN PRISON FOR BRAD BAILOR

A Snyder County judge found Brad A Bailor guilty of first and third degree murder last week in his bench trial for killing his estranged wife Leslie Bailor in their home during an argument while their two children were away with other family members in April of 2022.  According to North Central PA dot com, Senior Judge Harold Woelfel Jr. sentenced Bailor to life in prison without parole for the murder charge as well as a one month to five year sentence for a misdemeanor possession of an instrument of crime charge to run concurrently.   Bailor had waived his right to a jury trial.

SOUTHERN AIRWAYS PLANS WEEKEND FLIGHTS

The Williamsport Municipal Airport Authority has recently been given a revised flight schedule by Southern Airways Corp for the return of air travel out of Montoursville, and it now includes weekend flights. According to the Sun Gazette, with the return of opportunities for travelers in May to the Williamsport/ Lycoming Regional Airport, they begin a standard two-year agreement with Southern Airways at no cost to the carrier for lease and use of airport facilities which has been approved by airport authorities.  Adding weekend flights could reduce the number of flights in and out of Williamsport on weekdays, but will add more opportunities for domestic and international travelers to and from the region.

AG SAFETY FAIR IN CLINTON COUNTY

Geisinger is planning an Agricultural Safety Fair at the Clinton County Fairgrounds in April and invite the public to take part in an important educational event.  According to Geisinger’s Trauma team, who is sponsoring the fair, there will be educational safety exhibits that will teach all ages about firearm safety, grain silo rescue, and more and will help raise awareness and prevent farm related injuries in the commonwealth’s rural communities.  Local agencies including Goodwill Hose Company and Safe Kids Pennsylvania and many others will be in attendance on Saturday April 13th from 10 til 1.   

SPORTS

PIAA HS Basketball
Class 3A Playoffs
Lancaster Catholic 53   Loyalsock 43

NBA
Cavaliers  108    Pacers  103
Celtics  119         Pistons  94
76ers  98             Heat  91
Bulls  110           Trail Blazers  107
Timberwolves  114  Jazz  104
Knicks  119        Warriors  112
Kings  121          Grizzlies  111
Lakers  136         Hawks 105
NBA Tonight
Houston vs Washington  7pm
New Orleans vs Brooklyn  7:30pm
NHL
Capitals  5           Flames  2
Sabres  6             Kraken  2

NHL Tonight 
Penguins vs Devils  7pm
Jets vs Rangers  7pm
Maple Leafs vs Flyers  7pm
Hurricanes vs Islanders  7:30pm ESPN/Hulu

MLB Spring Training Scores
Guardians 8        White Sox 5
Rays  7                Braves  3
Twins 5               Red Sox  2
Pirates  11           Phillies  2
Yankees 4           Phillies 3
Nationals  10      Astros  1

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