BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS OCTOBER 18, 2024

TWO JUVENILES ACCUSE MONTOURSVILLE MAN OF SEXUAL ASSAULT

A Montoursville man is facing charges after two underage victims came forward alleging sexual abuse in two separate incidents.  According to the Sun Gazette, in 2019 and 2022 34 year old Joshua Joseph Kutza had inappropriate contact with minors who were 12 years old at the time, one of which was told by Kutza to be quiet about the abuse or he would cause problems with her family, the other reported through a child line report by a school counselor in whom the victim confided.  The man is entitled to be free on bail but has been given stringent conditions by the judge, including being required to wear a GPS monitor and adhering to exclusion zones near the victims and an order of no contact with victims, witnesses or other minors.

COUNTY INMATE ASSAULTS CORRECTIONS OFFICER

A Lycoming County Prison inmate from Williamsport is facing charges after assaulting a corrections officer last month and allegedly causing a concussion .  According to North Central PA dot com, county detectives say 24 year old Bruce Edward Kane fought with a cellmate September 13th and when officers responded to remove Kane from the area, he struck and officer in the head injuring them.  Kane was charged with aggravated assault, simple assault, and resisting arrest and has bail set at 25 thousand dollars monetary. Kane was originally jailed for defiant trespassing and reckless endangerment charges last year, according to court records.

LUZERNE COUNTY SETTLES BALLOT PAPER SHORTAGE LAWSUIT

The two voters who filed a Lawsuit in Luzerne County in March of 2023 over a ballot paper shortage have settled the case with the county.  According to the York Dispatch, Luzerne County will pay $30,000 for litigation expenses and will train election workers after ballot paper shortages caused problems during the 2022 election and kept voters from casting ballots in Freeland and Shickshinny polling places.  The suit, filed in federal court in Scranton stated that there was chaos on Election Day that was preventable, and required judges to extend poll hours and delay the report of election results from 16 of Luzerne’s 143 polling locations.  In June of 2023, the Luzerne County District Attorney reported that the investigation found no evidence of criminal activity or purposeful efforts to prevent voting.

UMC TO PERFORM AT COMMUNITY ARTS CENTER IN NOVEMBER

 The Uptown Music Collective is ready to kick off the 2024-2025 performance season next month and announced that tickets sales have begun for Midnight Train to Memphis: A Tribute to Modern Country .  The Collectives’ Special Performance Group , which consists of UMC students aged 13 to 18, will perform the music of as Chris Stapleton, Luke Combs, Carrie Underwood, Miranda Lambert, Lainey Wilson, Tyler Childers, Taylor Swift and other in partnership with UPMC North Central Pa and UPMC Health Plan.  Get tickets for the November 8 and 9th 7:30pm performance through the Community Arts Center box office and at caclive.com.

VICTIM LIFE FLIGHTED AFTER WINFIELD CRASH

A two vehicle accident on Route 15 tied up traffic for several hours Wednesday in Snyder county.  According to the Daily Item, the crash near Winfield happened before 3pm and authorities say one unnamed person suffered critical injuries, requiring a Life Flight to Geisinger.  Police remained on the scene for an investigation that shut down an area around Grangers Road in Winfield after the wreck.  No other injuries were reported and additional details have not yet been released.

CANNABIS DISPENSARY TO OPEN IN WOODWARD TOWNSHIP

Approval was granted to a medical marijuana dispensary at the end of September to Terrapin, an Avis-based grower and processor of medical cannabis to open a local store.  According to the Lock Haven Express, the Woodward Township Board of Supervisors have been considering the potential of the dispensary that is now expected to be housed at a vacant bank location in Lock Haven at 209 Woodward Avenue.  The conditional use hearing occurred in August where concerns about and support for the project was discussed, which included concerns about security and the possibility of increased crime – but supporters said they have found Terrapin to be a responsible corporate partner and that a lock Haven company will provide security for the facility.

BRIDGE REPLACEMENT WORK NEXT WEEK

Watch for a bridge replacement project next week in Sullivan County on Route 487 in Cherry Township.  According to PennDOT, starting Monday Route 487 will be closed between Old Bernice and Jackson Street/School Road while a contractor begins installation of the new bridge including removing the temporary bridge, paving, and setting of the guiderail.  Drivers will see a detour in place using Old Bernice Road Route 220, and East Main Street or Route 87 through Friday, November 15th.

PENNVEST LOANS FOR MIDDLEBURG SEWER UPGRADES

Middleburg Borough in Snyder County will benefit from a low interest PENNVEST loan to rehabilitate its sewage collection system.  According to the Standard Journal, the 1.2 million dollar  loan will replace approximately 3,200 feet of aging sewer main with a new, 8-inch sewer main, and upgrade 25 sewer manholes in the municipality.  Loans and grants from PennVEST, also went to municipalities in Juniata and Mifflin Counties for wastewater treatment plant upgrades.  Each project is said to significantly improve water quality and public health in the region.

SPORTS

PIAA HS
Boys Soccer

Williamsport 2     Belefonte  2  /2OT
Lewisburg  4        Hughesville 0
MIdd-West  3       Montoursville  1
Girls Soccer 
Muncy  5              Wellsboro  2
Hughesville  3      Lewisburg 2
South Wmspt 3    Midd-West  1
Cntrl Columbia  5  Milton  1
Selinsgrove  4       Warrior  Run  1

Girls  Volleyball
 
Altoona  3            Williamsport  0

HS Football Tonight
BYB Game of the week
Athens @ Muncy
6:30pm pre-game/7pm Kick-off

NFL

Broncos  33          Saints  10
NFL Sunday
Eagles vs Giants 1pm FOX
Chiefs  vs 49ers  4:25pm  FOX
Jets vs Steelers  8:20pm  NBC/Peacock

MLB
NLCS  Game 3 
Guardians  7  Yankees  5  NY leads 2-1
ALCS Game 4 
Dodgers  10  Mets  2  LA leads 3-1

MLB Today

Game 4 Yankees vs Guardians  8:08pm  TBS
Game 5 LA Dodgers  vs Mets  5:08pm FS1

NHL

Devils  3     Senators 1
Capitals 3  Stars  2
Blue Jackets 6  Sabres 4
Rangers 5  Red Wings  2
Blues  1      Islanders  0
Kraken  6    Flyers  4

NHL Today

Hurricanes  vs Penguins  7pm NHL Net

WNBA Finals Game 4 Friday

Liberty vs Lynx  8pm  ESPN

NASCAR Sunday

South Point 400  Las Vegas Motor Speedway  1:30pm Pre-Race/2:30pm Green Flag
Twin Valley’s Talk Radio Network WILQ’s HD3

BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS OCTOBER 17, 2024

JD VANCE IN WILLIAMSPORT

Vice Presidential candidate JD Vance was in Williamsport yesterday for a campaign rally at the Liberty arena on Hepburn Street. More than 1000 people attended the rally that shut down roads in city for most of the day over the security for the Senator and for those who came to listen to him speak Wednesday afternoon. The topics Vance covered that drew the most interest from voters including economic policies and immigration.  Vance left Lycoming County after his short speech and went to Pittsburgh where today, he will hold another campaign rally representing former president Donald Trump and the Republican party just 20 days before Election Day in Pennsylvania – November 5th.

WOMAN ARRESTED FOR PUNCHING GUARD

A woman who witnesses say became combative toward a security officer at a music and arts festival event in Millville last weekend, has been arrested for simple assault, trespassing, and harassment.  According to North Central PA dot com, police say Hannah Elizabeth Powell was asked to leave the event several times and when confronted about remaining, she struck the female security guard in the face, cutting her.  Powell was detained and held while 911 was called.  She was arraigned and bail was set at $5,000 monetary.

NUCLEAR TEST TO HAPPEN IN BERWICK NEXT WEEK

The Susquehanna Steam Electric Station in Berwick is planning a test and the US Department of Homeland Security and FEMAwill be evaluating the results.  According to FEMA authorities they will evaluate state and local government response capabilities within the 10-mile Emergency Planning Zone after the Radiological Emergency Preparedness Exercise at the Columbia County nuclear facility.  The test is set for next week and a public meeting will be held to discuss preliminary findings Thursday October 24th at 4pm at the Talen Energy East Mountain Business Center in Wilkes-Barre.

ELECTION NIGHT DINNER IN LEWISBURG TO END THIS YEAR

The tradition of the Lewisburg Area High School Alumni Association serving a spaghetti dinner on Election may be coming to an end.  According to the Daily Item, representatives from the Alumni Association said that after 20 years of serving the dinners at Donald H. Eichhorn Middle School, declining attendance and lack of volunteers has led to them planning on this year to be the last.  The event will be held in Lewisburg this November 5th from 5-7pm and is $9 for adults and $5 for children6-12 and free for children 6 and under.  Association members said they would welcome a new group to take over the traditional event.

WILLIAMSPORT MAN ARRESTED DOMESTIC VIOLENCE

Police say a woman was assaulted by a Williamsport man who was recently taken into custody.  According to the Sun Gazette, witnesses say that 22 year old Dontay James Gulledge threatened the female victim and police observed that she sustained injuries to her face neck and upper chest when they interviewed her at a residence on West Third Street in the city. The woman originally told authorities she was injured in a fall but later said the injuries were inflicted by Gulledge, who police say had a swollen hand, which was consistent with the accusations against him.  He was charged with terroristic threats, simple assault and harassment, and was jailed in lieu of 75 thousand dollars bail.

SEXUAL ASSAULT CHARGES FOR BEAVERTOWN MAN

A man from Beavertown has been charged with felony aggravated indecent assault, and several misdemeanors after he was accused of sexually abusing a 9 year old girl in August.  According to the Daily Item, Travis P. Shorts first denied any contact with the child, but the after a polygraph test, he admitted that  did behave toward the girl in a sexual manner, but blamed the child for wearing revealing clothing.  Middleburg police say the mother of the child brought about the complaint and he was recently arraigned with an upcoming preliminary hearing.  He was jailed in lieu of one hundred thousand dollars bail.

MAYOR SLAUGHTER ELECTED PRESIDENT OF “THE LEAGUE”

The Pennsylvania Municipal League, or “The League”, has elected Williamsport Mayor Derek Slaughter as this year’s president to lead the organization that strengthens and empowers effective local government through advocacy, education, and support for our members.  According to the Sun Gazette, slaughter was elected during The League’s annual business meeting as part of the Municipal Leadership Summit in Scranton.  League representatives called Mayor Slaughter aleader in revitalization who has led the City of Williamsport team to professionally serve the community.  Slaughter served The League last year as first vice president.

FINANCIAL HELP NEEDED FOR SUNBURY PARADE

Sunbury Fire Police are asking for last minute sponsors for their Halloween Parade tonight forming at Shikellamy High School at 5pm.  According to parade organizers, the parade steps off at 7pm and will go from Tenth Street to Market Street, and then Fourth Street to the Sunbury Plaza.  The group says they are willing to accept last minute donations to help cover some of the costs of the parade.  Get information on the Sunbury Fire Police Facebook page and at City Hall.

SPORTS

PIAA HS
Boys Soccer

Bloomsburg 5      Muncy 0
Lewisburg  4        Crestwood 0
Warrior Run 1      Selinsgrove 1/2OT
Cntrl Columbia  3  Milton  1
Girls Volleyball
Lourdes  3            Lewisburg  2

MLB
NLCS – Game 3 
Dodgers  8                     Mets  0  LA leads 2-1
MLB Today
NLCS  Game 4 – Dodgers vs Mets  8:08pm FS1
ALCS  Game 3 – Yankees  vs Guardians  5:08pm  TBS/Max NY leads 2-0

WNBA Finals  Game 3
Liberty  80           Lynx  77
WNBA Finals Game 4 Friday
Liberty vs Lynx  8pm  ESPNNHL
Penguins  6           Sabres  5
Maple Leafs  6     Kings 2
Bruins  5              Avalanche  3
Ducks  5               Utah Hockey Club  4
NHL Today
Devils vs Senators  7pm
Stars vs Capitals  7pm
Rangers vs Red Wings  7:30pm  EPSN+/Hulu
Islanders vs Blues   8pm 
Flyers vs Kraken  10pm ESPN+

Thursday Night Football Tonight
Broncos vs Saints  8:15pm  PrimeVid
NFL Sunday
Eagles vs Giants 1pm FOX
Chiefs  vs 49ers  4:25pm  FOX
Jets vs Steelers  8:20pm  NBC/Peacock

BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS OCTOBER 16, 2024

MIDWIFE WHO LET INFANT DIE SENTENCED TO PRISON

The Laporte woman who was charged with involuntary manslaughter after serving as a midwife during a home birth in 2022 in which the infant died, was sentenced yesterday in Sullivan County Court.  According to the Sun Gazette, 49 year old Brigitte Meckes has been ordered to serve 8 years and 8 months to 17 years for not seeking emergency care for the infant who was in distress.  The parents of the child Amy and Drew Hoenigke pleaded guilty of involuntary manslaughter, aggravated assault, endangering the welfare of a child, and misdemeanor reckless endangerment in August and are currently serving a state prison term for the charges.

SHAMOKIN MAN CRASHED INTO WEIS MARKETS

A 20 year old man in Shamokin was taken into custody after crashing his car into the front of a local grocery store early Monday.  According to the News Item, Cain Reigle was seen by a witness doing donuts in the West Market Street Weis Markets parking lot about 1am Monday morning.  Police say he lost control of the car and crashed into the vestibule area of the store.  No word on the charges filed against Reigle.  Workers have put up planks of plywood at the Weis for a temporary fix to the windows at the store.

THIEF BREAKS INTO CARS TWICE IN LOYALSOCK TOWNSHIP

An unknown suspect has stolen from cars in the Loyalsock Township area in two separate incidences According to State police at Montoursville, the first instance of theft occurred overnight September 20th when victims reported that cash and credit cards were stolen from vehicles parked on Stopper Drive.  There is another report of thefts in the same area between 2:30pm September 23rd and 9:30pm September 24th.  The suspect mostly stole loos change but got away with approximately 515 dollars from several vehicles.  If you have information about the thefts, call state police 570-368-5700.

LEAF PICK UP FOR MAHONING TOWNSHIP

Mahoning Township has announced the leaf-pick up schedule for the season that is set to start October 22nd. According to township officials, residents are permitted to put out 5 bags of leave per pick-up  not to exceed 50 pounds.  The pick-up will happened Tuesdays and Thursdays between 9am and 4pm through December 19th.  If  you would like to schedule a pick up with the township, email [email protected] or call 570-857-5001 and provide your name and address. 

FIRE AT WATSONTOWN BUSINESS

Officials shut down a portion of Main Street in Watsontown yesterday for a fire at an area business.  According to the Standard Journal, smoke was seen coming from Moore Good Hair Days in the 200 block of Main Street and police say there were reports of a fire being called in just before 9am.  Warrior Run, White Deer and Milton area firefighters responded to the blaze that was discovered by fire officials in the basement of the building.  There were no injuries reported. 

POLICE OFFICER PLEADS GUILTY TO USING EXCESSIVE FORCE

One former Mount Carmel Police officer who was charged with using excessive force pleaded guilty yesterday and is facing 4 to ten years in prison and a possible 250 thousand dollar fine.  According to WNEP, Kyle Schauer was indicted by a federal grand jury last year along with two other former officers David Donkochik and Jonathan McHugh who are awaiting a trial on the same charges, one count of conspiracy to deprive rights under the color of law.

CLOSED PRISON SHARING ITEMS WITH OTHER AGENCIES

With the closure of the Snyder County Prison, the staff there has been reduced to about 10 officers, the Warden, Deputy Warden and Associate Warden who still work on policies and schedules there, but the contents are being donated to another agency.  According to the Daily Item, the Snyder County Commissioners, are giving cleaning and personal hygiene items previously bought in bulk to Children and Youth Services, and will also offer mattresses, bathroom and kitchen equipment to Clinton County for an as yet to be determined price.  About 40 inmates who were at the Snyder County facility have since been housed in Clinton County from when they updated their corrections model in June.

CRACK SEALING IN TIOGA AND LYCOMING COUNTY

Work will continue this week by crews performing roadway crack sealing on various routes in Tioga and Lycoming Counties.  According to Penn DOT, Route 6 and Route 287 will have single lane conditions with flagging during the daylight hours, as well as Interstate 180 will see alternating single lane closures.  Work on Route 405 will take place during the overnight with single lane conditions and flagging there.  Check 511 PA dot com for road conditions 24/7 across the commonwealth.

SPORTS

PIAA HS  Boys Soccer
Hughesville  2      Shikellamy  1 /2OT
Girls Soccer
Muncy  2              Jersey Shore  0
Hughesville  3      Shikellamy  2
Cntrl Columbia  5  Warrior  Run 2
Milton  5              Towanda 0
Crestwood  7        Williamsport  1
Montoursville  1  Bloomsburg  0
NP Mansfield 3   CMVT  2
Volleyball 
Bald Eagle Area  3  Williamsport  0
MLB
ALCS  Game 2
Yankees 6            Guardians  3  NY up 2-0
MLB Today
NLCS  Game 3
Dodgers vs Mets  8:08pm FS1 tied 1-1

NHL
Lightning  4          Canucks  1
Capitals  4                     Golden Knights  2
Hurricanes  4        Devils 2
Panthers 4            Blue Jackets 3
Oilers  4               Flyers  3
NHL Today
Buffalo Sabres vs Pittsburgh Penguins 7pm TNT
Boston Bruins vs Colorado Avalanche  9:30pm TNT/Max
Utah vs Anaheim 10pm ESPN+Thursday Night Football
Broncos vs Saints  8:15pm  PrimeVid
NFL Sunday
Eagles vs Giants 1pm FOX
Chiefs  vs 49ers  4:25pm  FOX
Jets vs Steelers  8:20pm  NBC/Peacock

WNBA Finals Tonight
Liberty vs Lynx  8pm ESPN

BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS OCTOBER 15, 2024

MORE CHARGES FOR TEEN WHO MADE THREATS

The teen who allegedly told a student acquaintance he would shoot up Montoursville Area High School last week, is officially facing firearms charges for showing an illegally held .380 Ruger on a Snapchat video during the threat.  According to the Sun Gazettte, 18 year old Jasir Jennings-Cornelius is now in custody after running from police until last  Thursday when he was apprehended at a home on Second Avenue. Jennings-Cornelius told police the gun he had was given to him by a juvenile who was in custody for allegedly being involved in the theft at the Blued Barrel Gun Store in Hughesville.  Receiving stolen property was added to the 18 year old’s charges of felony terroristic threats and harassment and after waiving his preliminary hearing, the man was released on 50 thousand dollars bail.

CITY STREET CLOSURES WEDNESDAY FOR VANCE VISIT

There are street closures to expect in Williamsport tomorrow in preparation for Senator JD Vance, Donald Trump’s Vice Presidential running mate, who will speak at Liberty Arena on Hepburn Street Wednesday at 3pm.  According to the Williamsport Bureau of Police, beginning at 7:30am tomorrow morning, Hepburn between Second and West Edwin Streets, and Elmira Street between West Third and West Edwin will close. In addition there will be closures around Center Place, and Government Place between West Third and West Fourth and other areas close by.  The closures are expected to remain in place until 5pm. Please consider an alternate route tomorrow.

GRANT TO BOLSTER BROADBAND IN THE TIOGA COUNTY REGION

The Church of the New Covenant in Mansfield has received funding from the Pennsylvania Broadband Development Authority to bolster internet access in the community.  According to a press release from Senator Gene Yaw, almost 2 million dollars in grant funding from the federally backed Multi-Purpose Community Facilities Program is being invested as a key part of the Commonwealth’s broader mission to strengthen infrastructure.  The grant is expected to help to improve internet access in schools, libraries, recreation centers, and nonprofits that serve as public hubs. 

CROSSCUTTERS 2025 SCHEDULE ANNOUNCED

The Williamsport Crosscutters have announced their 2025 season schedule in conjunction with the MLB Draft League for a fifth season.  Friday June 6th is the home opener against the Mahoning Valley Scrappers at Journey Bank Ballpark at Historic Bowman Field, kicking off 40 home games for the year.  Times fort the home games in Williamsport remain the same – 6:35 for weekdays and Saturdays with a 4:05 first pitch on Sundays.  In the league’s first four seasons, over 170 players have been drafted by MLB clubs, including 33 members of the Williamsport Crosscutters.  Get MVP Club Season ticket details that go on sale November 1st at crosscutters.com.

MORE CHARGES FOR MAN WHO KILLED BEARS ON HIS PROPERTY

The man from South Williamsport who had previously been charged with killing wildlife on his property and was free on bail, has been taken into custody after facing new charges from offenses in September.  According to North Central PA dot com, 62 year old Shawn Paul Zimmerman, violated terms of his initial bail after being recently accused of strangulation, simple assault, and harassment for allegedly against his girlfriend.  Judge Nancy Butts revoked Zimmerman’s bail and set his new bail at $75,000.  He will have to post the full amount to be released, while he waits for his court date in November at the Lycoming County Prison.

SUSPECT IN HOMICIDE CASE WANTS CHARGES DISMISSED

A man from Wilkes Barre has filed motions requesting that homicide charges against him be dismissed for his involvement in the fatal shooting of Dayveon Creel, of Sunbury, outside the Northumberland County Courthouse August 15th.  According to the Daily Item, Carnel Shelborne was charged with homicide September 15th after police say he was in the vehicle that blocked Creel from fleeing danger during the lunch break of an attempted homicide case for Anthony Moultrie and Francky Riche.  This set the scene for the shooting, allegedly by a third man, Denarii Springs, of Northumberland who is not yet in custody at this time.  Shelborne’s attorney says the case should be dismissed due to lack of evidence.  He will in Northumberland County court Friday.

TECH SCHOOL OFFERING FREE TRAINING

Thanks in part to a federal grant from the Department of Treasury, under the administration of the PA Department of Community and Economic Development, SEDA-COG and SUN Area Technical Institute are offering tuition-free training.  According to the Daily Item, the program will focus on HVAC and plumbing, carpentry and electrical systems technology. The Whole Homes-Repair Grant will provide training that is open to the public to learn practical, real-world skills that can enhance their capabilities in home repair, renovation, and weatherization. . Classes will be held twice a year through 2026.  Get more information by calling SUN Tech  at570-966-1031 ext. 125 for more information.

RENOVO NAMES FLAMING FOLIAGE FESTIVAL QUEEN

The 2024 Flaming Foliage Festival Queen was crowned this past weekend in Renovo during their 75th anniversary celebration of the event.  According to the Express, Miss Canton, Isabella Schoonover, was crowned as this year’s Queen and was also awarded Miss Congeniality. Central Mountain Wildcats took first in the Band competition, and Citizens/ South Renovo Pierce Rescue Engine won first place for the best appearing firetruck. For the floats Pat Reeders was 1st in the small float competition and The Central Mountain Cheerleaders won for the large float. Details at Pastateflamingfoliage.org.

SPORTS

PIAA HS
Boys Soccer
Muncy  1              Jersey Shore  1 /2OT
Midd-West  4       Warrior  Run  0
Montgomery  3    St. Joseph  Catholic 1
Girls Soccer
Muncy  5              Sullivan County  0
Jersey Shore 1      Wellsboro 0
Montoursville  4  Northern  Lebanon  0
Lewisburg  7        Mifflinburg  0

NFL Monday Night Football
Bills 23       Jets  20
Thursday Night Football
Broncos vs Saints  8:15pm  PrimeVid
NFL Sunday
Eagles vs Giants 1pm FOX
Chiefs  vs 49ers  4:25pm  FOX
Jets vs Steelers  8:20pm  NBC/Peacock

MLB
ALCS  Game 1
Yankees  5           Guardians  2
NLCS  Game 2 
Mets  7       Dodgers  3  tied 1-1

WNBA Finals Wednesday
Liberty vs Lynx  8pm ESPN

BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS OCTOBER 14, 2024

FATAL MOTORCYCLE WRECK IN BLOOMSBURG

A young man from Bloomsburg died in a motorcycle crash Saturday.  According to the Columbia County Coroner’s office 19-year-old Robert Halye died in the crash that occurred about 4pm on Route 339 in Main Township.  Police say Halye lost control on a curve and collided with an oncoming car.  He was pronounced dead at the scene from his injuries; he was wearing a helmet at the time of the crash. No other injuries were reported.  State police at Bloomsburg reopened the road after several hours following an investigation.

SMOKE TEST THIS WEEK TO TEST RURAL SEWER SYSTEM

Residents of Kulpmont, Marion Heights and Natalie will see crews this week from the Pennsylvania Rural Water Association conducting a smoke test of the local sewer system,  According to authorities at PRWA, there will be non-toxic smoke seen rising from outside sources as they test for illegal connections, breaks in lines or any potential inflows or infiltrations into the Kulpmont-Marion Heights Joint Municipal Authority sewer system.  Crews will be surveying the results of the tests and say unless smoke is seen inside a home, there is no need to take any action.  The work is expected to go on Tuesday through Thursday.

JD VANCE TO SPEAK IN WILLIAMSPORT WEDNESDAY

A campaign rally with Senator JD Vance will be held this week in Williamsport.  According to Donald Trump’s website, the event will be held at Liberty Arena on Hepburn Street Wednesday with doors opening at noon.  Senator Vance is expected to speak at 3pm. Tickets are available on a first come first served basis at DonaldJTrump.com under events.

NOMINATE YOUR FAVORITE PA TRAIL

It’s time to nominate your favorite hiking trail in the Commonwealth.  According to DCNR Secretary Cindy Dunn, trails are an important part of what makes Pennsylvania a special place for outdoor recreation with over 12 thousand miles of trails available to enjoy.  For those who want to submit a nomination, a form and supporting documentation must be submitted online by November 1.  The winning trail will be featured by DCNR in a news release and on a commemorative poster. It will get a special trailhead marker and a grant for educational programs to promote safety and environmental protection on the trail will be awarded. DCNR.pa.gov

MUNCY MAN IN CUSTODY FOR FILIMING ASSAULT

A 20 year old from Muncy is facing charges of burglary, robbery, theft by unlawful taking, conspiracy to commit simple assault after police say he recorded an assault of a victim by two juveniles in the victim’s home along Route 220 in June.  According to police two Snapchat videos were sent to family members of the victim while he was being assaulted who shared them with troopers who were at Geisinger Medical Center in Muncy after the assault.  After a police interview, the victim said 20 year old Marshall Joseph Rothrock was one of his assailants who also stole items from his home including Xbox controllers, a hard drive, and prescriptions.  Two other juveniles were interviewed by police June 17th and June 19th, one of whom admitted to the assault.  Rothrock is free on 50 thousand dollars bail and has a preliminary hearing in November.

GUILTY VERDICT FOR SHAMOKIN  MAN WHO KILLED WITH SWORD

The man who killed a Shamokin woman with a sword was found guilty by a jury last week in Northumberland County Court.  According to the Daily Item, 24-year-old Corey Quincy took the stand in the proceedings and admitted his guilt saying he was a lifelong drug addict who lost control in a fit of rage and killed 43-year-old Rhonda Pearce on April 4th  2022.  No word on when the judge will spell out his sentence, but he could be expected to face a potential life prison term.

STATE POLICE DEPLOYING TROOPERS TO FLORIDA TO HELP

Local agencies have sent crews to help in areas of Florida ravaged by Hurricane Milton.   According to the Pennsylvania State police, they have deployed 54 troopers and two civilian support staff to aid local law enforcement in the Sunshine state, helping in an out-of-state capacity for the first time since they sent troopers to assist after Hurricane Sandy in 2012.  Forty line workers from PPL Electric Utilities are also sending crews to assist Florida Power & Light.  PPL is a partner and member of the Southeast Electric Exchange and the North Atlantic Mutual Assistance Group, and assist other members during natural disasters.

VOTING EVENT IN LEWISBURG TO TEACH CHILDREN

The League of Women voters and the Lewisburg Children’s museum is holding a civic education event for children along with a voter registration event for caregivers this Saturday.  According to the Lewisburg Children’s Museum children will learn about the voting process through fun, hands-on activities, then cast their votes for a brand new exhibit component at the museum. Volunteers will be on hand to assist with voter registration which will be available for those old enough to vote.  The event is free for all ages with museum admission.

SPORTS

NFL
Eagles  20           Browns  16
Ravens   30         Commanders  23
Steelers  32         Raiders 13
Bengals  17         Giants  7
Lions 47              Cowboys 9
Buccaneers 51    Saints  27
Monday Night Football
Bills vs Jets  8:15pm  ESPN/ABC

NCAA Football Saturday
Penn State 33     USC  30  OT

NASCAR Sunday
*  Kyle Larson won The Roval — the hybrid road course/oval at Charlotte Motor Speedway and raced to his Cup Series-high sixth victory of the season and easily advanced  to the third round of NASCAR’s playoffs.
*  For the playoffs – Kyle Larson is joined by, William Byron, Chase Elliott, Ryan Blaney , Denny Hamlin,  Christopher Bell , Tyler Reddick, and Joey Logano – who have each officially advanced into the round of eight.

MLB Sunday
National League Championship Series
Game 1  –  Dodgers 9  Mets  0
MLB Today
NLCS Game 2  —  Mets vs Dodgers  4:08pm  FOX
American League Championship Series 
Game 1  –  Guardians  vs Yankees  7:38pm  TBS

BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS OCTOBER 11, 2024

VICTIM IN ARMSTRONG TOWNSHIP CRASH IDENTIFIED

The Lycoming County Coroner has identified the victim in the Wednesday evening crash in Armstrong Township. State police say 33 year old Peter Zeigler of South Williamsport was driving his Subaru Legacy on Route 15 north after 5pm October 9th and left the roadway into the scenic overlook parking area before he continued on, striking an embankment, causing him to go airborne and over the cliff.  Zeigler’s vehicle burst into flames after it landed near Old Montgomery Pike Road. Multiple fire companies responded to the remote scene to extinguish the fire that burned for about 15 minutes.  Authorities from the coroner’s office and state police determined Zeigler was the only person in the accident after they surveyed the scene for any other victims. They continue the investigation into the crash.

POLICE SEEK LOYALSOCK TOWNSHIP THIEF

Police in Loyalsock Township are seeking a suspect who stole from parked cars during the overnight of September 20th.  According to State Police in Montoursville victims called to report the theft of cash and credit cards from vehicles they had parked along Northway Road.  If you have information about the thefts or about any suspects that might help the ongoing investigation, call State police in Montoursville, 570-368- 5700.

TEACHER’S CONTRACT AGREEMENT FINALIZED AT SHIKELLAMY

An agreement was reached between Shikellamy school directors and the education association last night approving a new 6-year teacher’s contract.  According to the Daily Item, the agreement was passed unanimously by the school board and agreed upon 167-9 by the Shikellamy Education Association.  The contract is ratified through 2030 and can be found online at shikbraves.org.

TWO FIRE DEPARTMENTS TO DONATE TRUCK, EQUIPMENT

After a meeting by the Hepburn Township Volunteer Fire Department members this week, it was decided that they would donate their 2000 model fire truck with fire equipment from Picture Rocks Volunteer Fire Department to the fire company in Burnsville in western North Carolina, after they suffered destruction from flooding from Hurricane Helene.  Hepburn Township has a new engine, which was purchased in the spring.  According to the Sun Gazette, the fire marshal in North Carolina said that almost half a dozen fire departments lost everything and many others lost at least one critical apparatus.  The engine with donated equipment on it including pick head axes, a thermal imaging camera, 800 feet of hose, a deck gun, forestry rakes and nozzles and more, will head to the flood ravaged area transported by Ground Shaker Transport.

FATAL MOTORCYCLE ACCIDENT IN SNYDER COUNTY

There was a Snyder County motorcycle accident this week that killed a man from Selinsgrove. According to State police, 76 year old Joseph C Smith was riding east near the intersection of Mill Road and North Oakwood Lane at about 3pm Monday, when a 2019 Audi driven by 38 year old Cathryn P. Mercer of Bastian Virginia, crossed the line and hit the man. Smith was thrown from the bike and fatally injured according to the Snyder County Coroner.  DH&L Fire and Ambulance, Hummels Wharf Fire Department were also on the scene.

BLOOMSBURG SHOOTER TURNS HIMSELF IN

The man police were seeking as a suspect in the shooting in Bloomsburg where the victim drove himself to the hospital after allegedly being shot, has turned himself in to state police. According to State police, 19 year old Joseph Michael Teneyck is now in custody for attempted homicide, aggravated assault, and robbery following the arrest of the previously unnamed suspect, Nicholas Romeo Jones of Berwick who is facing robbery charges. Teneyck is in Columbia County Prison in lieu of $250,000 bail.  Jones is also incarcerated but is being held on 75 thousand dollars bail. The shooting victim, 23 year old Tyler Brown was charged with possession of a stolen firearm.

CROSSCUTTERS RAISE MONEY FOR CENTRAL PA FOOD BANK

A partnership between the former Kelloggs – now Kellanova – and the Williamsport Crosscutters in a jersey and cap auction has raised thousands of dollars for the Central PA Food Bank.  According to the Crosscutters, they announced that they raised 6 thousand, 8 hundred dollars thanks to their Pop-Tarts night when Cutters players and coaches wore specially-designed Pop-Tarts branded uniforms and led guests to participate in promotional activities including trivia and drawings for a year supply of pop tarts in July.  The recent auction raised funds that assist the Central PA Food Bank to fight hunger, improve lives and strengthen communities.

FREE CATS, KITTENS AND DOGS AT DANVILLE SPCA EVENT

It’s a free adoption event for dogs, cats and kittens at the Danville SPCA this weekend.  According to the Danville SPCA they will offer shelter pets for no charge when fees can range from 85 dollars for an adult cat to 300 dollars for some dogs.  Each of the animals are spayed or neutered, chipped, vaccinated and treated for fleas and ticks.  If you are looking for a second dog, adopters should bring that pet along with all the family members who live in the home to meet the new animal. The event is October 12, 13th and 14th from noon to 6pm and is sponsored by Mars Pet Co. Savings.  Cat carriers will be available for $5.

SPORTS

PIAA HS Sports

Boys Soccer
South Williamsport  4         Muncy  3
Athens  1                               NP Liberty  0
Hughesville 4                        Mifflinburg  1
Benton  5                               Sullivan Co 1
Lewisburg  2                         Sthrn Columbia  0
Wellsboro  2                         Williamson  1
Girls Soccer
Sullivan  4                 Meadowbrook Christian  3
Midd-West  2            Mifflinburg  1
Bloomsburg  1          Milton  0
Cntrl Columbia  5     Shikellamy  0
Selinsgrove  8           Central Mountain  0
Sthrn Columbia  4    Loyalsock  1


HS Football   BYB Game of the week
Danville vs Loyalsock 6:30 pre-game/7pm kickoff
Twin Valley’s Talk Radio network
Montgomery vs Holy Redeemer @ Wyoming Valley West Saturday 6pm


NFL Thursday night Football

49ers  36     Seahawks  24
Upcoming NFL Sunday
Browns vs Eagles 1pm FOX
Steelers vs Raiders  4:05pm CBS
Bengals vs Giants  8:20pm NBC

NCAA Football Saturday

Cal vs Pitt 3:30pm ESPN
Penn State vs USC 3:30pm CBS
Stanford vs Notre Dame  3:30pm
Ohio State vs Oregon 7:30pm NBC

MLB
ALDS Game 4
Guardians  5        Tigers  4  2-2
Yankees  3                     Royals  1  Yankees win series 3-1
MLB Today
NLDS Game 5
Padres vs Dodgers  8:08pm FOX  2-2



NHL

Bruins  6        Canadiens  4
Kings  3          Sabres  1
Senators  3     Panthers  1
Maple Leafs  4  Devils 2
Utah Hockey Club 5  NY Islanders 4
Penguins  6  Red Wings  3
Stars  4           Predators  3
Wild  3           Blue Jackets 2
Blues  5          Sharks  4

NASCAR
Bank of America ROVAL 400 Charlotte NC – Road Course
1pm Pre-Race/2pm Green Flag
Twin Valley’s Talk Radio Network / WILQ HD3

WNBA Finals Game 1

MN Lynx  95  NY Liberty  93
WNBA Finals Game 2 Sunday 
Lynx vs Liberty  3pm ABC 

BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS OCTOBER 10, 2024

FATAL CAR ACCIDENT KILLS ONE IN ARMSTRONG TOWNSHIP

A fatal fiery car accident off of Route 15 in Armstrong Township yesterday around 5pm had state police and firefighters from at least 6 local companies working the scene.  According to the Sun Gazette, state police say a man thought to be in his early thirties, whose identity has not been released, went about 300 yards down an embankment in his vehicle in a remote area of Old Montgomery Pike Road and burst into flames causing the woods to ignite.  Authorities say crews were challenged to get to the crash site since it was behind a locked fence, but they gained access and encountered flames about 65 feet high. They got the fire under control in about 15 minutes.  The investigation continues with State police and the Lycoming county coroner who was on the scene and said they are investigating whether the driver had a medical episode before the crash.

SUSPECT IN SHAMOKIN SHOOTING AT LARGE

A shooting Saturday night in Shamokin has brought about a warrant for 31 year old Antonio Mark Feliciano who was driving the car when he and a passenger, Jose Alberto Rodriguez-Melendez, approached a pedestrian who has not yet been named in the investigation.  Rodriguez-Melendez and the pedestrian exchanged fire before a 12 year old exited the car by the rear passenger door and fled. There is local video footage of the incident.  According to the News-Item, Rodriguez-Melendez was taken into custody at his home on South Fifth Street by Shamokin Police who say the incident may be related to other shots fired in front of a home in the 900 block of North Orange Street Saturday.  Contact Shamokin Police Department at 570-648-5708, if you have information.

FROST ADVISORY TONIGHT

The first frost advisory of the season is upon us.  According to the National Weather service, temperatures could get to the low 30s after 2am tonight into Friday morning by 9am in portions of central Pennsylvania mainly in valley locations.  They recommend taking steps to protect vegetation that is sensitive to cold weather, since frost can kill them if left exposed.    

“LIVE UNITED IN MUSIC IV” FUNDRAISER THIS MONTH

An evening to celebrate local musicians along with Grammy and Tony nominated musician Michael Cavanaugh is coming up October 18th at the Community Arts Center in Williamsport to benefit the Lycoming County United Way.  Live United in Music IV is sponsored by UPMC and will feature Cavanaugh performing music by Billy Joel and Elton John along with 50-piece Live United in Pops Orchestra conducted by Walt Straiton, a former Uptown music collective student, Tess Marshal and others supporting the local United Way who works to serve 33 community service programs in Lycoming, Sullivan, and Tioga counties.  Get tickets at caclive .com.

WASD SCHOOL BOARD UNDER FIRE AT PUBLIC COMMENT MEEETING

The Williamsport school board meeting October 8th brought about a large crowd for an extended public comment session after a chaotic incident happened in the school cafeteria October 4th.  According to the Sun Gazette, a panic began amongst the students in the building that day after loud noises were made by a student were mistaken for gunshot,  and there is criticism toward the administration for their handling of it.  Witnesses say school law enforcement were dismissive in the aftermath of realizing there was no real emergency and the training students received was fruitless when they found themselves unable to gather at a pre-arranged location.  In the wake of a gun found on a student recently parents at the meeting demanded a change of policy. School board administrators are encouraging that the community work together to find solutions. The next school board meeting is scheduled for November 12th.

POLICE SAY SUSPECT IN BLOOMSBURG SHOOTING IS AT LARGE

After a man was found shot and unconscious in the parking lot of the Geisinger-Bloomsburg Hospital October 4th, police are looking for his shooter after investigating the incident.  According to North Central PA dot com, after 23 year old Tyler Brown was found by a passerby and was stabilized at the hospital, police interviewed him and found he was allegedly approached by 19 year old Joseph Michael Teneyck in a parking lot near Irondale Road who demanded money and his phone.  The two men struggled and shots were fired with Brown injured and fleeing, driving himself a few miles to the hospital.  Police are offering a reward for information leading to the whereabouts of Teneyck who is being charged with attempted murder, robbery, and aggravated assault.  If you have information, call 1-8004PA TIPS.

LITTLE LEAGUE BOULEVARD TO BE REPAVED SOON

Milling, repaving and reconstruction of Williamsport’s Little League Boulevard between Mulberry and Walnut Street is set to begin soon so that the work can be done before construction season is over.  According to the Sun Gazette, it was announced at the Glenn O. Hawbaker won the bid that was reviewed by SEDA-COG in Lewisburg and Livic, the design consultant.  The total cost came in 65 thousand dollars under budget with the city planning to utilize Community Development Block Grant funds for the project. 

INAUGURAL VETERAN-SUPPORT TRAIN RIDES IN NOVEMBER

In a fundraising opportunity for  two Veteran-support organizations, the North Shore Railroad Company & Affiliates will be pulling passenger excursions for the first time with the newly dedicated LVRR 9052 (Veterans Unit) and LVRR 9050 (Memorial Unit), for the Inaugural Veterans Benefit Voyage. Train rides will depart from Hufnagle Park in Lewisburg, on Saturday, November 9 with four departure times. 100% of the ticket sales will go directly to: Expedition Orange and Lycoming County Hometown Heroes.  Get tickets at northshorewarehouse.com/usa.

SPORTS

PIAA HS Sports
Boys Soccer

Williamsport  2    Selinsgrove  0
Montoursville  1  Hughesville 0
Milton  3              Jersey Shore  0
Warrior  Run  6    Shamokin  1

Girls Soccer

Muncy  14            CMVT  0
Wellsboro  4         NP Mansfield 1
South Wmsprt  2           Millville  1


MLB
NLDS
Mets  4       Phillies  1 Mets advance to the finals for the first time since 2015
Dodgers  8            Padres  0  2-2
ALDS
Tigers  3     Guardians  0 DET up 2-1
Yankees  3           Royals  2  Yankees lead 2-1
MLB Today
Guardians vs Tigers  6:08 TNT
Yankees  vs Royals 8:08pm  TBS 

NHL
Canadiens  1        Maple Leafs  0
Rangers  6            Penguins  0
Jets 6                    Oilers  0
Flames 6               Canucks  5
Golden Knights  8  Avalanche  4

WNBA Finals Game 1
MN Lynx vs NY Liberty 8pm ESPN 

NFL Tonight
49ers  vs Seahawks  8:15pm PrimeVid

Upcoming NFL Sunday

Browns vs Eagles 1pm FOX
Steelers vs Raiders  4:05pm CBS
Bengals vs Giants  8:20pm NBC

NCAA Football Saturday

Cal vs Pitt 3:30pm ESPN
Penn State vs USC 3:30pm CBS
Stanford vs Notre Dame  3:30pm
Ohio State vs Oregon 7:30pm NBC

BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS OCTOBER 9, 2024

SOUTH WILLIAMSPORT MAN ARRESTED FOR DOMESTIC ABUSE

A South Williamsport man is in custody after he assaulted his girlfriend in their home October 2nd.  According to the Sun Gazette, police interviewed the victim at the couple’s Market Street home around 3:15am and observed that she was injured.  Police report that the victim said 38 year old Evan Michael Jones punched and strangled her, holding her on the ground by pulling on her hooded sweatshirt while telling her to get out before destroying her phone.  The victim was able to call for help from a nearby business, and was treated at UPMC Williamsport.  Jones was arraigned October 3rd and faces felony charges of strangulation, reckless endangerment, simple assault an more.  He was jailed in lieu of 15 thousand dollars bail.

PA SUPREME COURT TO HEAR RIGHT-TO-KNOW CASES FROM 2020

An appeal has been granted by the state Supreme Court in the right-to-know requests cases that were filed after the 2020 presidential election.  According to PennLive, the RNC and state Republican Party will be able to file the appeal on behalf of the plaintiffs.  The court will consider the state election Code and whether it exempts Cast Vote Records from a right-to-know request since they are the contents of a ballot box or voting machine.  A lower court previously reversed a decision that the CVRs are subject to public record, and upheld another decision that digital images of votes cast are also not public record.  The court has said they will not have a decision on the matter before this November 5th, Election Day.

DMV TO CLOSE FOR INDIGINOUS PEOPLES’ DAY WEEKEND

All Pennsylvania Driver’s License centers, including all the photo centers will be closed this Saturday October 12th through Monday October 14th in observance of Columbus Day/Indigenous Peoples’ Day.  According to the department, you may still obtain a variety of driver and vehicle products and services, including all forms, publications, and driver training manuals, online through PennDOT’s Driver and Vehicle Services website dmv.pa.gov.  Get a full list of driver license and photo centers online as well.

TRUMP TO RALLY IN PA TODAY

Former President Donald J Trump is planning a rally today in Scranton.  According to the website Donald J Trump dot com, he is set to campaign at Riverfront Sports at 5 West Olive Plaza in Scranton with doors set to open at noon.  The event is scheduled to start with Mr. Trump speaking around 3pm.  He will also speak tonight at the Santander Arena at 700 Penn Street in Reading, PA at around 7pm. Go online to sign up for tickets that are available on a first come first served basis.

TWO FIREFIGHTERS INJURED IN LEWISTOWN FIRE

Two volunteer firefighters were injured while they worked a four alarm fire in Lewistown Monday morning before 11am.  According to WHTM, Lewistown Fire Department units were coincidentally in the area performing a Carbon Monoxide investigation in the borough and were diverted to a multi-alarm rowhome fire from 224 Valley Street to neighboring homes up to 226.  Fifteen people were displaced from the property and two firefighters experienced burns and were treated at Lewistown Hospital.  Witnesses say the fire spread rapidly and crews remained on the scene for about 4 hours fighting the blaze.  Fire officials say they appreciated that community members served the crews food and drinks during the incident.

AC UNIT THEFT FROM BUISNESS IN WILLIAMSPORT

Pennsylvania State Police are investigating a September 7th theft from a dental office in Muncy Township.  According to North Central PA dot com, a suspect driving an older model Ford F-150 pickup truck went to Lycoming Dental Office between 8:30pm and 9:10pm and stole an industrial grade air-conditioner worth 50 thousand dollars.  Williamsport police said a similar case happened at Solley Chiropractic on East Third Street in Williamsport.  If you have information about the suspect or the incident, call Pennsylvania State Police in Montoursville at 570-368-5700.

MONTOUR COUNTY PUBLIC DEFENDER TO RESIGN

The Montour County Public defender has resigned.  According to the Daily Item, the Montour County board of commissioners accepted Laurie Pickle’s resignation unanimously Tuesday.  Pickle was hired as the first female public defender for the county in October 2022.  Her last day as PD is Friday, November 1st.  Commissioner Scott Lynn thanked Pickle for her service. In her resignation letter,  Pickle indicated she will be going on to work for Manchester and Associates.

WOOLY WORM PROGRAM SATURDAY DURING LEWISBURG FALL FEST

There will be a wooly worm event at the Fall Festival in Lewisburg this weekend.  According to the Lewisburg Downtown Partnership, in addition to over 60 craft and food vendors and family friendly activities that start Saturday around 10am, there will be the Woolly Worm Winter Weather Prognostication program that will predict this winter’s weather.  There will be musical performances through 5pm at the festival that is sponsored by Weis Markets and Geisinger.  Get more information at lewisburgpadot com.

SPORTS

PIAA HS Sports
Boys Soccer

Montgomery  3    Sullivan County 2
Millville 2             South Williamsport  1
Benton 5              Muncy  1
NP Liberty  3       Towanda  0
Wellsboro  9         Northeast Bradford  0


Girls Soccer
 
Warrior Run  4     Montoursville 1
Hughesville 3       Southern Columbia 1
Bloomsburg  1     Lewisburg  0
Selinsgrove  2       Williamsport 1

MLB
National League Division Series
Mets  7       Phillies 2 NY up 2-1
Padres  6     Dodgers   5  SD up 2-1
MLB Today
ALDS Game 3

Guardians vs Tigers  3:08pm TBS/truTV/Max 1-1
Yankees  vs Royals  7:08pm TBS truTV/Max 1-1
NLDS Game 4
Phillies vs Mets 5:08pm FS1
Dodgers vs Padres 9:08pm FS1

NHL Opening night
Blues 3                 Kraken  2
Panthers 6            Bruins  4
Utah Hockey Club  5  Blackhawks  2WNBA Semi-finals
MN Lynx  88   CT Sun  77  MIN wins series 3-2
MN Lynx plays NY Liberty tomorrow –  Game 1 of the WNBA Finals

NFL Thursday night
49ers  vs Seahawks  8:15pm PrimeVid
Upcoming NFL Sunday
Browns vs Eagles 1pm FOX
Steelers vs Raiders  4:05pm CBS
Bengals vs Giants  8:20pm NBC

NCAA Football Saturday

Cal vs Pitt 3:30pm ESPN
Penn State vs USC 3:30pm CBS
Stanford vs Notre Dame  3:30pm
Ohio State vs Oregon 7:30pm NBC

BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS OCTOBER 8, 2024

MAN ARRESTED FOR THREATS NOW CHARGED WITH STOLEN FIREARM

Police continue the investigation into threats made toward a local school and discovered the weapon used in a threatening Snap Chat video is the same weapon found on the person of a juvenile in custody for the theft committed at a Hughesville gun shop on September 20th .  According to the Sun Gazette, 18 year old Jassir Jennings-Cornelius from Williamsport was taken into custody October 3rd after he called his girlfriend at Montoursville Area High School October 2nd,  threatening to shoot up her school.  Once in court this week, he admitted that he received the weapon from the juvenile suspect before September 24th when he said he posted a video showing the gun. He was originally charged with terroristic threats and harassment, but a felony receiving stolen property was added to his case this week.  He is in Lycoming County Prison in lieu of an additional 50 thousand dollars bail.

FORMER TROOPER SENTENCED IN VEHICULAR HOMICIDE CASE

A State Trooper found guilty of vehicular homicide for a crash in Tioga County on Route 6 in February of 2023 that killed a Troy area mother and teacher, has been sentenced to 6 to 23 months in prison.  According to the Sun Gazette, Attorney General Michelle Henry says Michael J Brown was sentenced Friday and is ordered to report to prison November 1st .  A jury found Brown guilty after evidence showed he was driving his Jeep in Sullivan County when he passed on a double yellow and collided with 47 year old Christine Woodward driving in an oncoming vehicle as she ascended a hill.  Brown is also ordered to pay fines and restitution toward funeral expenses.

CARD SKIMMER FOUND IN CLINTON TOWNSHIP

Police are investigating the discovery of a credit card skimmer at a gas pump in Clinton Township.  The incident that originally happened in July, has been under investigation by the Pennsylvania State Police in Montoursville, who say 400 dollars was stolen from customers who used the gas pump with the skimmer, before someone noticed the device at the Sunoco on Route 54.  If you have information about the incident or about a suspect, go online to report it anonymously at 1-800 4PA tips.

WEIS DONATES TO SELINSGROVE SCHOOL

As part of their 2023-2024 fundraising campaign “Weis 4 School”, Weis Markets recently donated seven thousand dollars to Selinsgrove Area Intermediate school.  The donations are part of a 500 thousand dollar donation pool that is built through customers shopping and connecting their qualified purchases using their Weis Rewards Card to the fundraiser.  Weis allows customers to link their card which benefits a school of their choice to earn rewards from the company and its partners who participate.

MAN WHO ALLEGEDLY KILLED WITH A SWORD ON TRIAL THIS WEEK

The man who is on trial for fatally stabbing 43 year old Rhonda Pearce with a sword in Shamokin is in court this week with jury selection already begun.  According to the Daily Item, Corey Quincy, of South Vine Street, was arrested in April of 2022, after a wellness check about him and Pearce was called in by a family member and police found Pearce’s body that had been moved to an upstairs bedroom .  Quincy admitted to police that he stabbed Pearce while being angry about buing drugs including heroin which led to the murder.  He allegedly left her body in the home for three days.  He is on trial for homicide charges, with a plea deal unable to be worked out between Quincy’s defense attorney and the Northumberland County District Attorney Michael O’Donnell.  Qunicy’s trial starts Thursday of this week.

MIDDLEBURG BANK EVACUATED AFTER CAR ACCIDENT

A Middleburg bank was evacuated Friday after a car accident damaged a propane tank close to the building on East Main Street. According to the Daily Item, the road closed for about an hour last Friday after 3:15pm, when a vehicle crashed and landed on top of a 500 gallon propane tank near the Fulton Bank.  Employees, customers and others were evacuated from the area out of an abundance of caution.  When authorities arrived on the scene with a propane contractor , they secured the tank, with no injuries reported. Authorities reopened East Main Street a little after 4pm.

LICENSE PLATE REPLACEMENT EVENT THURSDAY IN MONTOURSVILLE

Pennsylvania State Police in coordination with State Representative Joe Hamm’s office are holding their License plate replacement event Thursday.  According to a press release, representatives from PennDOT and the Highway safety Network will be on hand at the Representative Hamm’s office at 899 Cherry Street in Montoursville, welcoming those who have a damaged peeling or uinreadab le plate on their car to come have it replaced.  Attendees should drive the vehicle with the damaged plate to the event from 4-7 October 10th and bring their current driver’s license and registration card.  All the paperwork will be handled at the event.

BILLTOWN BLUES FEST CANCELLED FOR 2025

In a decision that will shut down a popular annual event, scrapping plans for a 35th anniversary celebration, the Billtown Blues Association announced that they will not hold their festival in 2025.  According to a news release from the BBA, weather related challenges kept them from meeting financial standards they have maintained since the inception of the festival in 1990, but remain committed the blues community, planning for shows at smaller events; including the group’s annual fundraiser, “Fall Into the Blues,” November 17 at the Genetti Hotel in Williamsport. The BBA maintains its connection to the national blues scene with its affiliation to the Blues Foundation.

SPORTS

PIAA HS Sports Soccer
Boys
Montoursville  2  Loyalsock  1
Lewisburg  3        Williamsport  1
Cntrl Mountain  3  Jersey Shore 2
Girls  
Montgomery  1    NP Mansfield  0 OT
Wellsboro  3         Port Allegheny  1
Wyalusing  3        Sullivan County 2
Girls Tennis
Jersey Shore  5     Shikellamy  0

NFL Monday Night Football
Chiefs  26  Saints  13
NFL Thursday night
49ers  vs Seahawks  8:15pm PrimeVid
Upcoming NFL Sunday
Browns vs Eagles 1pm FOX
Steelers vs Raiders  4:05pm CBS
Bengals vs Giants  8:20pm NBC

MLB Monday
American League Division Series
Tigers 3      Guardians 0  1-1
Royals  4    Yankees  2 1-1
MLB Today
National League Division Series
Phillies  vs Mets  5:08pm  FS1 1-1
Dodgers  vs Padres  9:08pm 1-1

WNBA Semifinals Game 5 Tonight
Sun vs Lynx  8pm ESPN2
Winner plays NY Liberty Thursday for Game 1 of the WNBA Finals

NCAA Football Saturday
Cal vs Pitt 3:30pm ESPN
Penn State vs USC 3:30pm CBS
Stanford vs Notre Dame  3:30pm
Ohio State vs Oregon 7:30pm NBC

BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS OCTOBER 7, 2024

FIRE SUNDAY AT ELDRED TOWNSHIP TRAILER PARK

An Eldred Township fire has spurred an investigation by State police.  According to the Sun Gazette, an early morning fire Sunday at the  Pinecrest Village on Pinecrest Drive damaged the water treatment facility at the trailer court property that is home to over 70 residents.  Volunteers from Loyalsock, Montoursville, DuBoistown, Trout Run, Nisbet and Hepburn Township assisted at the fire that was declared under control in about an hour.  The manager of the property, who lives on site, discovered the fire at about 6:20am Sunday and called 911.

LOCAL CONTRACTOR TAKES MONEY DOESN’T WORK

Another local contractor allegedly took the money for a job and did not complete the agreed upon work in September  According to police, 42 year old Nathan Charles Cogley, who is an HVAC technician, assessed leaking at the victim’s home and said the water heater would need replacing.  After the homeowner gave Cogley a 16 hundred dollar check for a new water heater, he got a second opinion from another contractor and was told the water heater was fine.   After the victim canceled the job and asked for a portion of his payment back, Cogley never connected with the victim and later blamed him for not being paid back.  Cogley  is being charged with deceptive business practices and more and is free on 15 thousand dollars unsecured bail.  Police discovered Cogley also has active warrants out on him for violation of orders in the city.

WORK APPROVED FOR FORMER SCHOOL BUILDING IN WILLIAMSPORT

Williamsport city Council has approved conditional-use to repurpose and recondition the former Thaddeus Stevens Primary School at 1150 Louisa St.  According to the Sun Gazette, the next steps include Moonrise Acquisitions LLC coordinating a design team and working on the plan that will convert the former school into multi-family dwellings with residual office space. The building closed to school operations in 2022, with a 2020 districtwide feasibility study determining that renovating the building is a more cost effective move than demolition.

SALVATION ARMY NEEDS VOLUNTEERS, DONATIONS

The Eastern Pennsylvania and Delaware Division of The Salvation Army are heading to the southern US in response to the devastation from Hurricane Helene last week.  According to officials with the Salvation Army’s Emergency Disaster Services, they recently drove an EDS box truck filled with 11 pallets of clean-up kits.  You can donate to help the efforts of the nationwide non-profit as their volunteers are assisting with on-the-ground efforts and logistics for the hurricane relief.  Call 1-800-SAL-ARMY or go online to www.HelpSalvationArmy.org.  Designate checks to Disaster Relief – Hurricane Helene.

TIOGA COUNTY WOMAN ARRESTED FOR PUNCHING DRIVER

An unnamed 45 year old Tioga County woman was taken into custody recently after police say she punched her boyfriend while he was driving with an 11 year- old child in the car.  According to State police at Mansfield, they responded to a call where the woman in question had been locked out of a home in Westfield Township on September 15th.  Police say right before they arrived the woman broke a window to enter the home around 1:30am, and during an interview with two residents, they discovered news of the assault that happened between the couple while they were in the car earlier in the day on Route 49.  The woman was arrested and charged with reckless endangerment and harassment.

MAN ARRESTED FOR DRUG POSSESSION AFTER TRAFFIC STOP

A man was arrested for having a large quantity of marijuana and paraphernalia in his vehicle during a traffic stop October 1st.  According to North Central PA dot com, police were investigating a complaint that a grey BMW owned by 29 year old Dylan Michael Fisher smelled like marijuana from the outside.  When a traffic stop was initiated at the 300 block of Hepburn street, police said they could smell the drug and later discovered 541 grams of it, along with edibles, and other marijuana products. Fisher is being charged with possession with intent to deliver a controlled substance and is free on 25 thousand dollars bail.

SELINSGROVE POLICE CHIEF TO RESIGN

The police chief in Selinsgrove has submitted her resignation and her last day in the borough will be October 11th.  According to a letter written by Chief Shanee Mitchell, she submitted 3 letters of resignation between September 30th and October 1st and had numerous conversations with her supervisors before they finalized her final date of employment.  She expressed gratitude toward all of Snyder County for allowing her to have the opportunity to serve the area and met many accomplishments despite what she called “moments of conflict and adversity.”  Sgt. Francis Petrovich will serve as the department’s acting chief during the transition.

MEETING TO DISCUSS COMBATING SPONGY MOTH IN BLOOMSBURG

There will be a public meeting to address strategies for future management of  spongy moth, a pest that defoliated many trees and forests last spring in the state.  According to the Daily Item, PennState Extension and the Department of Conservation and Natural Resource’s Bureau of Forestry will host the event at the Columbia County Agricultural Center on Sawmill Road in Bloomsburg October 30th at 6pm. Experts will present at the meeting and share management strategies for controlling spongy moth feeding, including discussion of biological control measures, aerial applications, soil injections, and the use of drones.

SPORTS

NFL Sunday
Vikings  23           Jets  17
Ravens  41                     Bengals  38
Dolphins  15        Patriots  10
Texans  23                     Bills  20
Giants  29            Seahawks  20
Cowboys  20        Steelers 17
NFL Monday Night Football
Saints vs Chiefs  8:15pm  ESPN

NASCAR
*Ricky Stenhouse Jr. snapped a 65-race losing streak by winning in overtime at Talladega on Sunday after a late crash involved eight of NASCAR’s 12 title contenders clearing half the field. 
*Stenhouse is not in the playoffs and his victory marked the second consecutive week a driver not competing for the Cup Series title has won.
*Brad Keselowski was 2nd, William Byron 3rd (#1 in the playoff lineup), Kyle Larson 4th (3rd in the playoff lineup), Erik Jones 5th

MLB National League Division Series
Phillies  7    Mets  6  1-1
Padres  10  Dodgers  2 1-1
MLB American League Division Series Game 2
Tigers vs Guardians  4:08pm TBS CLE up 1
Royals vs Yankees 7:38pm TBS  NY up 1

WNBA Semifinals Game 4
Liberty  76                     Aces  62 Liberty wins  series 3-1
CT Sun  92                    Minnesota Lynx  82 tied 2-2
WNBA Semifinals Game 5  Tuesday 
Sun vs Lynx  8pm ESPN2

NBA PreSeason
 LeBron James and Bronny James made history Sunday night as the first father and son to play together in an NBA game as the Los Angeles Lakers lost 118-114 in the preseason to the Phoenix Suns at Arcisure Arena.