BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS AUGUST 6, 2024

ALLENWOOD INMATE CAUGHT WITH CONTRABAND, WEAPON

An Allenwood inmate who was found with a weapon and controlled substances while incarcerated, was indicted by a federal grand jury July 30th.  According to the US Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania said 48 year old Thomas Burton of New York City was found by Officers to have a homemade shank and synthetic marijuana on June 19 – both felony carry more years in prison, probationary periods and fines.  The matter was investigated by the FBI.

MAN CHARGED WITH CRUELTY TO ANIMALS FOR NEGLECTING DOG

A man from Shamokin has been charged with two felony charges of aggravated cruelty to animals after a humane officer investigated a complaint about a dog had been left outside of a home on East Commerce Street earlier this year.  According to North Central PA dot com, officials say 58 year old John Joseph Jurevicz failed to provide care for one of three dogs in the home and the Chow Chow named “Timber”  required euthanization after the man surrendered the dog was examined by a veterinarian who said “Timber” severely emaciated and had a large infected mass on him – he was put down May 24th.  Jurevicz has a preliminary hearing August 13th.

FREE BREAKFAST AND LUNCHES AT MIFFLINBURG SCHOOLS

There will be free breakfast and lunch again this year for the Mifflinburg Area School District when the 2024-25 school year starts August 21st. According to the Daily Item, last year the school served the district served 33,669 breakfast meals and 98,814 lunch meals by participating in the Community Eligibility Provision program.   The Healthy, Hunger-Free Kids Act of 2010 is a reimbursement option for eligible schools that wish to offer free meals to all children.. The first day of school for Mifflinburg Area is August 21st.

ADAPTIVE KAYAK LAUNCH IN FLEETWOOD

An adaptive kayak launch has been installed at Lake Chillisquaque in Fleetwood, Pennsylvania thanks to the Middle Susquehanna Riverkeeper Association and Montour Area Recreation Commission who collaborated in the project.  According to the Sun Gazette, the BoardSafe Adaptive Kayak Launch will allow people who may have physical limitations or emotional fears to access the lake by using a special chute and bench system that cradle a kayak or canoe allowing people to engage with our resources in ways they couldn’t before.  Specific programs will be offered in the near future involving the kayak launch, watch vernalschool.org for information.

SUNBURY SHOOTER IN FATAL CASE, WILL FACE TRIAL NEXT WEEK

The man accused of the death of 33-year-old Joseph Rice, of Sunbury will be on trial next week.  According to the Daily Item, Easton was in court Monday vie video conference for his criminal motion hearing, as the court is requesting information about a few issues with the case.  Northumberland County Judge Michael Toomey says the defense has until the end of the week to submit briefs about lingering issues and to decide whether the jury should be instructed about a self-defense claim in the shooting that happened in September 2022 on Third Street and Raspberry Avenue in Sunbury. Easton has been incarcerated without bail at Centre County Correctional Facility in Bellefonte.

MILTON MAN CHARGED WITH BURGLARY

A man from Milton is being charged with felony burglary and criminal trespassing as well as six misdemeanors in connection with the alleged burglary. According to the Daily Item, police say 26 year old Tyler James Bean was seen on security cameras in the vicinity of the apartment that had been burglarized July 7th.  Police were called to the Mahoning Street residence where residents found 18 karat gold necklace and 14 karat gold earrings missing after the suspect broke in the back door to the home.

GRANT FOR FUTURE MUNCY PICKLEBALL COURT

A grant has been approved by the Muncy Creek Township Supervisors from the First Community Foundation Partnership of Pennsylvania for use as part of their Keiss (keese) Memorial Park Pickleball Court Project.  According to a news release, over 40 thousand dollars from the Waldron Memorial Fund will be used to keep up with outdoor recreation trends by adding a pickleball court to the grounds.  The park already features baseball fields, basketball courts, tennis courts, a sand volleyball court and more.  Keiss Park located at 575 PA-442 just outside of Muncy and directly across from the Muncy Creek Township Municipal Building.

PA GUARD TO DEPLOY SOON TO KUWAIT AND JORDAN

The Pennsylvania National Guard’s 213th Personnel Company are preparing for deployment.  According to PennLive, 50 soldiers will head to Kuwait and Jordan over the next few months, where they’ll focus on assisting with postal operations and personnel accountability. There was a send-off ceremony Sunday morning at Fort Indiantown Gap in Lebanon County. This unit is a subordinate of the Pennsylvania National Guard’s 213th Regional Support Group.

SPORTS

MLB Draft League
Williamsport returns home comes home tonight for Game 1 of 3 vs the West Virginia Black Bears 6:35 pm first pitch. 
MLB
D’backs  7            Guardians 6
Mets  6       Cardinals  0
Giants  4     Nationals  1
Dodgers  5            Phillies 3
MLB Tonight
Padres vs Pirates  6:40pm
Giants  vs Nationals  6:45pm
Angels  vs NY Yankees  7:05pm
Orioles  vs Blue Jays  7:07pm
Mets vs Rockies 8:40pm
Phillies vs Dodgers  10:10pm

OLYMPICS Today
2:35 p.m. ET Water Polo – Women’s Quarterfinal: Hungary vs USA
3:15 p.m. ET Basketball – Men’s Quarterfinal: Brazil vs USA
4 p.m. ET Beach Volleyball – Women’s Quarterfinal: USA vs Switzerland

Olympics News
US Women’s Gymnastics
* American gymnast Simone Biles earned silver in the floor exercise finals yesterday — her fourth medal in Paris and 11th Olympic medal overall — after a routine that included a couple of costly steps out of bounds.
*Brazil’s Rebeca Andrade became the first gymnast to beat Biles in a floor final in a major international competition, with a score of 14.166 just ahead of Biles at 14.133.
*Biles’ overall medal total (including seven gold, two silver, two bronze) ties Czechoslovakia’s Vera Caslavska for the second most by a female gymnast in Olympic history.
Men’s Track
American Noah Lyles won the 200- meter final in the final heat of the night in 20.19 seconds. He now advances to Wednesday night’s semifinals.
Surfing
French Polynesian Kauli Vaast won the gold medal in men’s surfing for France while Caroline Marks from the United States won the women’s surfing gold medal on Monday at the Paris Olympics in Tahiti.

BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS AUGUST 1, 2024

THREE TEENS ARRESTED FOR ROBBERY AND ASSAULT

Three teenagers were charged with robbing and assaulting another teen in Williamsport Monday and were taken into custody.  According to the Sun Gazette, two 19 year olds, Zachary Trivelpiece and Conner Gaul along with a 16 year old juvenile were accused of attacking the victim at the 1300 block of Park avenue at 5:30am Monday and he was treated at UPMC for injuries.  Trivelpiece and Gaul were arraigned on felony robbery and simple assault, Gaul faces additional charges and remains incarcerated in lieu of 25 thousand dollars bail.  Trivelpiece posted bail and the 16 year old was released with an ankle monitor awaiting a hearing in juvenile court, but police say he cut off the monitor by Wednesday morning.

WILLIAMSPORT MAN SHOOTS TOWARD WIFE INSIDE CAR

A man from Williamsport, PA, is facing charges of attempted homicide. According to WNEP, Timothy Allen Wilson allegedly pointed a gun at his wife recently while she was driving in the city, with their two-year-old son in the back seat. The shot went through the back windshield, narrowly missing their child. No one was hurt in the incident. Wilson is currently in custody in Lycoming County Prison.

PUBLIC HEARING ABOUT SOLAR PANELS IN TURBOTVILLE

The Turbotville Borough Council has scheduled a public hearing so that they can consider the installation of 59,000 solar panels on 79 acres of land shared by   Turbotville Borough and Lewis Township.  According to the Daily Item, Susquehanna Solar has applied for a conditional use application for use of the property that is within Turbotville borough and the industrial zoning district of Lewis Township.  They expect about 20 jobs to be created with the project.  The public is invited  6:30pm August 22nd at the Turbotville Borough Building at 267 Broadway Street.

CAT VIDEO FEST THIS WEEKEND AT THE DISTRICT

There will be a lot of cat videos to see at the District Cinema at Lycoming Valley this weekend during the Cat Video Fest.  According to North Central PA dot com, at 12:30 Saturday and Sunday, a 75 minute compilation reel of the latest and best cat videos culled from countless hours of unique submissions will be shown here in Lycoming County after Oscilloscope movie distribution company distributed the fundraising event across the country.  District Cinema is partnering with the Lycoming County SPCA and Lycoming Animal Protection Society (LAPS) to share a portion of the proceeds along with Heidi’s Furry Friends Furry Friends Rescue, Inc.  Get tickets at the door or online at hedistrict.dipsontheatres.com.

FATAL MOTORCYCLE CRASH ON ROUTE 44

A man from Bellefonte died in a motorcycle crash Saturday July 20th on State Route 44 in Potter County.  According to North Central Pa dot com, State police say 59 year old Anthony M. Deonna was traveling on Pine Hill Road around 2:45pm on  a 2024 Ducati Hypermotard and failed to negotiate a curve west of Rausch Road. Police say Deonna struck a few rock protrusions before the motorcycle went airborne, landed in the road, and skidded about 17 feet on its side. 

NO NEW TRIAL FOR MOTHER OF ARABELLA PARKER

The woman convicted of voluntary manslaughter and aggravated assault over the death of her daughter, 3 year old Arabella Parker, has been denied a new trial.  According to the Daily Item, Samantha Delcamp’s sentence of 12 to 25 years in state prison is official and will stand. The 30 year old woman from Trevorton, and her boyfriend Jarred Burgess were both convicted by separate juries for their roles in the little girl’s death. Burgess was sentenced by Northumberland County Senior Judge Charles Saylor to no less than 24 years to 50 years in state prison.  Saylor’s July 26th ruling in Delcamp’s case was upheld by the state Superior Court, even though she filed 10 various issues saying the court erred throughout her trial.

TRACTOR PULL GUIDELINES AT UNION COUNTY FAIR THIS YEAR

The 99th Union County West End Fair starts Sunday and there are new tractor pull guidelines in place after a Johnstown woman lost her life last August 11th  by being struck by a piece of machinery that broke off a tractor and hit her in the stands.  According to the Daily Item, Fair President Dennis Boop said new safety features must be followed this weekend for anyone participating in the tractor pulls over the 7-day fair in Laurelton.  Fair officials will require tractor to have a cover, placed over its turbo and exhaust housing with a cross or a star bolt in place on the backside to keep everything inside the housing. The Garden Tractor Pull is on Sunday and the Kiddie Pedal Pull is on Monday – get the full schedule and Fair information at ucwef.com.

CAT RESCUE EVENT THIS MONTH IN LEWISBURG

A Lewisburg cat rescue non-profit and a pet friendly café are holding their 5th annual Nine Miles for Nine Lives Fitness Challenge to raise money for cats in the Susquehanna Valley.  According to North Central PA dot com, Cherished Cats Rescue Alliance and Lewisburg’s cat café, The Scratching Post have opened the 25 dollar registration for participants to help raise funds by walking or running 9 miles in August; either all at once or broken into stages.  The funds will go for veterinary care to rescue cats, as well as for food, litter, and toys and for support of the local trap-neuter-return program.  For information and details send an email to [email protected].

SPORTS

MLB Draft League
Trenton Thunder 8        Williamsport Crosscutters 0
Cutters are back on the road tonight in West Virginia for two games then spend the weekend in Mahoning Valley against the Scrappers.  They’ll be back home Tuesday 8/6 hosting West Virginia Black Bears at Journey Bank Ballpark and Historic Bowman field 6:35pm first pitch.

MLB

Yankees 6  Phillies  5
Orioles  10           Blue Jays 4
Twins  8     Mets 3
D’back  5    Nationals  4
Astros  5     Pirates 4

MLB Tonight
Orioles  vs Guardians 6:40pm
Royals vs Tigers  6:40pm
Marlins vs Braves 7:20pm
Cardinals  vs Cubs 8:05pm
Rockies vs Angels 9:38pm

Olympics Results
Womens’ Swimming
* Katie Ledecky earned the eighth Olympic gold medal of her career and 12th medal overall with a runaway victory in the 1,500-meter freestyle yesterday at the Paris Games.
Men’s Swimming
* After winning gold in the 200m butterfly , France’s Leon Marchand returned to the pool for the 200m breaststroke and made even more history becoming the first swimmer ever to win a medal in both the butterfly and breaststroke.
* Marchand made an Olympic-record time of 2:05.85.
Women’s Tennis
Coco Gauff lost in women’s doubles and mixed doubles at the Paris Olympics yesterday, a day after her tearful exit in singles.
Gauff and her U.S. teammate, Jessica Pegula, were the top-seeded women’s pair but were eliminated in the second round by the Czech duo 2-6, 6-4, 10-5 in a match tiebreaker in the afternoon.
Women’s Soccer
The U.S. women’s national team took a 2-1 win over Australia in Marseille yesterday to secure first place in Group B at the Olympic Games and set up a quarterfinal against Japan in Paris on Saturday.
Men’s Basketball
Team U.S.A. men’s defeated South Sudan 103-86 to qualify for the quarterfinals. After sitting out the win against Serbia on Sunday, Jayson Tatum got the start this time.
Medal Count
US 30 5-gold 13-silver 12-bronze
France 26 8-gold 10-silver 8-bronze
China  20  10-gold 7-silver  3 bronze

Olympics Today
*Simone Biles and some her of U.S. teammates compete in the women’s gymnastics all-around final.
*Olympic swimming features four finals, including Katie Ledecky in the 4×200-meter free relay. 
*Track and field features the men’s and women’s race walk. 
*Olympic men’s golf begins  their first round
* The U.S. women’s basketball team continues group play against Belgium.

BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS JULY 31, 2024

BENTON MAN CHARGED FOR UNCONTROLLED BRUSH FIRE

Charges were filed after a Benton man started a fire he couldn’t control. According to North Central PA dot com, the 44 year old Eric Michael Kocher started the blaze in late April to clear brush behind his home. Kocher’s neighbors called 911 after seeing the fire had spread to their property. Kocher’s wife claimed the neighbor threatened to shoot her, Kocher and their dog after approaching on a four-wheeler. When questioned by authorities, Kocher admitted to starting the fire. Kocher is being charged with risking catastrophe, dangerous burning, failure to control a dangerous burn, disorderly conduct, and more. He is scheduled for a preliminary hearing Aug 20 and is free without bail.

FATHER WHO ABUSED HIS CHILDREN FREED AFTER TIME SERVED

The man who pleaded guilty to abusing his 8 children from 1994 until 2020, had a sentencing hearing and will be released from prison for time served. According to the Sun Gazette, Matthew Joseph Zeigler was sentenced to 1,137 days in prison, but the term for the 5 counts of endangering the welfare of a child was maxed out, and Zeigler is free.  However, he was also sentenced to 60 months’ probation and ordered to pay a $6,500 fine and must adhere to a no-contact provision, prohibiting him from contacting the victims by any means, including through a third party. 

MCCLURE MAN ARRESTED AFTER THREATENING CODES OFFICER

A man from McClure allegedly threatened a property code officer and is facing charges.  According to the Daily Item, 27 year old Matthew C. Lash was on his property July 18th when Code Enforcement Officer Gerald Lloyd III was doing inspections.  After an interchange between the two men who were both inside their vehicles, Lloyd said he was threatened by Lash and told that he’d be shot and killed if he returned, before Lash sped off, striking Lloyd’s car in the process.  Lash has now been charged with felony threats against an official, misdemeanor terroristic threats, reckless endangerment and obstructing a government official.  He was arraigned and posted 15 thousand dollars bail.

NEW FORESTER IN TIOGA COUNTY

A Galeton native and graduate of Penn College has been appointed as the district forester for Tioga State Forest, covering over 161 thousand acres in Bradford and Tioga counties.  According to DCNR, Benn Carlson will manage the forest, including the majestic Pine Creek Gorge, also known as the Grand Canyon of Pennsylvania, and the popular Pine Creek Rail Trail. He said priorities of the position for him include managing the forest’s timber resources and recreational forestlands, as well as raising awareness about careers in conservation through programs for  school age children.

PENN STATE FRATERNITY BROTHERS PLEAD GUILTY IN HAZING INCIDENT

In a Centre County courtroom, the two former Penn State students who were involved in a fatal hazing incident at their fraternity in 2017 entered their plea yesterday.  According to North Central PA dot com, Brendan Young and Daniel Casey pleaded guilty to 14 misdemeanor counts of hazing and a single count of reckless endangerment after sophomore student Timothy Piazza, a pledge of the fraternity, was found unresponsive after participating in an event involving excessive amounts of alcohol.  Piazza died a few days later after suffering from multiple falls.  Young, 28, and Casey will be sentenced October 1st.  The Piazza family supported the Pennsylvania legislature in passing the Timothy Piazza Anti–Hazing Law, which includes a felony-graded offense when serious injury or death results.

NORRY CORONER LOOKING FOR BLOOD RELATIVES OF SUBJECT

Living blood relatives of a Northumberland County resident are being sought.  Coroner James F. Kelley says he is looking for living relatives of 64 year old Thomas J Crumlic, who lived in Mount Carmel.  If you have any information that can help, please call Kelley through the County Communication Center at 570-988-4539.

‘FREE FILE’ COMING FOR PA RESIDENT IN 2025

The IRS is offering a new free tax filing system for 2025.  According to the Penn-Capital Star, U.S. Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen and Gov. Josh Shapiro announced yesterday a transformation at the Internal Revenue Service that drastically improves the taxpayer experience through the Inflation Reduction Act.  The program called Free File could save Pennsylvanians $630 million in combined annual tax filing fees and additional tax credits claimed directly from the IRS.  Governor Shapiro said the prgram would be available for all Pennsylvanians in the next tax filing season.

VA HEALTHCARE EVENT AT PENN COLLEGE IN AUGUST

The Department of Veterans Affairs will hold a town hall & enrollment event at Penn College next month.  According to a press release from the Wilkes Barre VA Medical Center Leadership, the event will be August 21st at the Thompson Professional center on the campus.  The event will provide veterans family members and the public to express feedback on the recent expanded benefits of the PACT Act and if desired, also enroll in VA Healthcare.  Parking for the 5pm event is available in lot V-3.

SPORTS

MLB Draft League
Crosscutters and Thunder were cancelled last night due to rain.  They’ll try again tonight at Journey Bank Ballpark @ Historic Bowman Field; 6:35pm first pitch.

MLB
Guardians  5        Tigers 0
Orioles  6             Blue Jays  2
Yankees  7                     Phillies 6
Mets  2                 Twins  0
Pirates  6              Astros  2
D’Backs  17         Nationals  0

MLB Tonight
Yankees vs Phillies 12:35
Blue Jays vs Orioles  12:35pm
Twins vs Mets  1:10pm
Nationals vs  D’Backs 3:40pm
Pirates  vs Astros  8:10pm

Olympics News  Coming up today…
* LeBron James and the U.S. men’s basketball team play South Sudan.
* U.S. swimmer Katie Ledecky competes in the 1,500-meter final. 
* The U.S. women’s national soccer team continues group play, with a match against Australia. * The Olympic gymnastics men’s all-around title is live at 11:30amUS Women’s Gymnastics
*The US Women’s Gymnastics team earned gold yesterday, defeating Italy, by nearly six points, with a seven-point gap to bronze medalist Brazil.
*It was the fourth time that the American women have claimed gold in the event, but the first since 2016.
*The medal for Biles with her floor routine score of core of 14.666 earned her the eighth overall and her fifth gold in three appearances – making her the most decorated American gymnast in Olympic history.
Triathalon
*The Olympic triathlons got underway today as the women dove into the Seine River to start the swim after days of delays and uncertainty over water quality concerns.
* The men were slated to start about three hours after the women’s race. 
Men’s Olympic Soccer
 U.S. 3             Guinea 0
* U.S. and France qualify for the Quarterfinals

Medal Count
US 26  4-gold 11-silver 11-bronze
France  19  6-gold 9-silver 4-bronze
China  14 6-gold 6-silver 2-bronze

BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS JULY 30, 2024

SUSPECT WITHDRAWS NO CONTEST PLEA IN NORRY COURT

The 20 year old Watsontown man on trial for shooting a state trooper in April of 2023, withdrew his no contest plea for aggravated assault on a police officer. According to PennLive, Hunter Shaheen originally faced two counts of felony attempted  homicide after a 2023 incident in which State police were assisting the Watsontown Borough police during a domestic dispute and a trooper was shot in the leg with a non-life-threatening injury by Shaheen, who was also shot and taken into custody after the exchange.  Shaheen’s defense attorney says the prosecution is seeking a weapon enhancement for the charges and they had only just found that out in the presentencing report.  Now the original charges are back on the table against Shaheen which could carry a 40 year sentence.

SERIOUS INJURIES FOR ONE DRIVER AFTER TWO-CAR ACCIDENT

Life Flight was dispatched last night for a two-car crash at the 9000 block of State Route 522 in Franklin Township in Snyder County.  According to State police Selinsgrove, 75 year old Claude Stanley of Middleburg was seriously injured when his northbound 2010 Chevy Cobalt crossed into the southbound lanes near Dock Hill Road and collided with a tractor trailer driven by 55 year old Scott D. Solomon, of New Columbia, who was not injured. Police say Stanley was not wearing a seat belt.

BASSMASTER TOURNEY WINNER FROM VIRGINIA

A man from Virginia won the national Bassmaster Kayak Series Tournament over the weekend.  According to the Basscast, Ewing Minor of Virginia scored a two-day total of 187.75 inches, and won just over $11 thousand. Just a quarter of an inch separated Minor from second-place Kristine Fischer from Nebraska, who put up a two-day total of 187.50 inches.  Over 200 anglers were free to fish anywhere on the Susquehanna river in this region and over 2,400 bass were caught during the tournament; sponsored by the Susquehanna River Valley Visitors Bureau.

CLINTON COUNTY FAIR ENDS THIS WEEKEND

The 51st Clinton County Fair continues tonight in Mill Hall and will highlight the week of community, agriculture and local talent.  There are many favorite activities at the fair, including the Bill Yost Memorial Horseshoe Tournament, a Corn Hole Tournament and various 4-H and FFA awards programs.  The public is invited to compete in the Animal Dressing Contest, Hot Dog Eating Contest, Youth Pie Eating and more.  Plus. there is a prize drawing each night at 9:30 on the AuxStage in which you must be present to win.  The gates open every day at 7am with a 5 dollar admission and 2 dollar parking. Children 12 and under are free. Get details and the full schedule at clintoncountyfair.com.

MAN SENTENCED 6 TO 25 YEARS FOR VIOLENT ASSAULT

A 73 year old man from Cogan Station was sentenced to at least six and a half years but up to 25 years in state prison after police said the man kidnapped a woman binding her hands and feet, and gagging her, before a neighbor heard her screaming in a Watsontown alley and came to her aid. According to the Daily Item, Byron Magargle appeared for his sentencing hearing by video in Northumberland County Court.  Magargle’s attorney told the judge that his client suffered from Post Traumatic Stress Disorder and blacked out and didn’t remember the incident.

WOMAN USES FALSE NAME WITH POLICE TO HIDE PRIOR ARRESTS

Police recently arrested a Lock Haven woman who they say gave a false name during a traffic stop, trying to keep details about her previous violations from them.  According to North Central PA dot com, police say 54 year old Nicole Pauline Burns has several warrants out for her arrest and has a suspended driver’s license, and gave her maiden name “Shoemaker” when police questioned her at Woodward Avenue.  Burns was taken into custody and taken to the Clinton County Correctional Facility.

BERWICK WOMAN CHARGED WITH STEALING FROM GRANDMOTHER

34 year old granddaughter from Berwick is being charged with felonies for taking advantage of a care dependent person and stealing all her grandmother’s money.  According to family members, Shawna Rae Francis was given control over her grandmother’s accounts for paying bills in January 2023.  Over the course of a year over 53 thousand dollars was drained and Francis’ aunt was asking for financial records that the woman wouldn’t disclose.  Police discovered Francis transferred large sums of the money to her account to pay for household items and her own mortgage.

RECONSTRUCTION OVERNIGHT IN LYCOMING COUNTY

The reconstruction and bridge replacement project continues today on Lycoming Mall Drive and Fairfield Road in Fairfield Township. Work is scheduled for tonight at 7pm through until 6am. Vehicles traveling Lycoming Mall Drive at the intersection with Fairfield Road will be switched to the newly completed part of the structure over Bennetts Run. After that side is complete, the contractor will begin reconstruction work on other half of the bridge. Watch for flaggers while the work is being performed.

SPORTS

MLB Draft League – Last night in Trenton
Williamsport Crosscutters 2  Trenton Thunder 1
Williamsport hosts Trenton for Game 2 of their three-game series,  tonight at 6:35pm
MLB
Guardians 8         Tigers 4
Game 1 –     Orioles  11           Blue Jays  5
Game 2 –     Blue Jays 8           Orioles 4
Yankees  14         Phillies  4
Mets  15               Twins  2
Pirates  5              Astros  3
D’backs  9                      Nationals 8
MLB Tonight
Yankees vs Phillies  6:40pm TBS
Mets  vs Twins 7:10pm
Pirates vs Houston 8:10pm
Nationals vs D’Backs 9:40pm

Olympics
Women’s Basketball Olympic Opener
* The Americans defeated Japan 102-76 – in a rematch of the 2021 gold medal game in Tokyo.
* They are now 56-0 in the Olympics since 1992 as they take the first step toward winning their eighth consecutive gold.
* Japan’s tallest player stands 6-foot-1, and Team USA has six players that height or taller.
Triathalon
* The men’s Olympic triathlon planned for Tuesday has been postponed over concerns about water quality in Paris’ Seine River.
* They will try to hold the men’s triathlon Wednesday the same day as the women’s competition and both are subject to water tests.
Men’s Tennis
* Novak Djokovic, defeated Rafael Nadal, 6-1, 6-4 in the second round of the Summer GamesWomen’s Rugby
* Down 7-0, the U.S. women’s team cameback  to defeat Great Britain 17-7 in the quarterfinals.
* It’s the first time that the U.S. reached the semifinal since rugby became an Olympic sport in 2016.
* The Americans will face New Zealand next for a spot in the final.
Medal Count
USA 20  3-gold, 8-silver, 9-bronze
France 16  5-gold 8-silver 3-bronze
japan 12 6-gold 2-silver  4-bronze

BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS JULY 26, 2024

JUVENILES IN CUSTODY FOR WILLIAMSPORT SHOOTINGS

Two Williamsport teens and a Philadelphia boy are facing juvenile charges after police discovered they were allegedly  involved in several shootings around Williamsport in the past two weeks.  According to the Sun Gazette, shots were first fired July 18th in the area of Linn Street in which a car was struck.  No injuries were sustained in the next two shootings the first of which was on King Street Monday at about 7:45pm but another vehicle was struck by a bullet during that shooting on Tuesday at 12:45am. After police recovered ballistics evidence at the three scenes, they suspected the incidents were linked and through search warrants, further discovered evidence and firearms from the shootings connected to the suspects.  The 16 year old from Philly who was being sought by juvenile probation authorities and he was sent back to the city.  The remaining two teens are to be petitioned in juvenile court.

FOX WITH SUSPECTED RABIES CAPTURED

In the wake of two people being bitten by a suspected-to-be-rabid fox in Selinsgrove yesterday, state police have announced they have now collected it and given it and the PA Game Commission for testing.  According to North Central PA dot com, in an incident on July 24th, the East Snyder Community Garden posted to social media that people were bitten in Harris Estates.  Once results from the tests come back, authorities will take next steps.

TREE CLEARING NEXT WEEK IN LEWISBURG

A tree clearing project is going to affect Route 15 south in East Buffalo Township, Union County. According to PennDOT, next Monday through Thursday dead trees, saplings and vines will be cleared along the Route 15 southbound Right-of-Way near Bucknell between Curtin Avenue and the intersection with Smoketown Road and Moore Avenue.  The right side driving lane will be taken up with tree surgeon crews from 9am til 3pm each day.

A tree clearing project is going to affect Route 15 south in East Buffalo Township, Union County. According to PennDOT, next Monday through Thursday dead trees, saplings and vines will be cleared along the Route 15 southbound Right-of-Way near Bucknell between Curtin Avenue and the intersection with Smoketown Road and Moore Avenue.  The right side driving lane will be taken up with tree surgeon crews from 9am til 3pm each day.

The 77th Little league World Series is coming to Williamsport and on August 13th the 18th Grand Slam parade kicks off at Maynard and Fourth Streets  at 5pm.  According to the Williamsport Lycoming Chamber of Commerce, they have announced a grand marshal for the annual parade that will feature the 20 Little League World series teams and their families.  Former Detroit Tiger and Hall of Fame Pitcher, Jack Morris will appear in the parade thanks to Lycoming Engines.  The parade will be broadcast live on WNEP TV-16.

SHUNK MAN ALLEGEDLY EXPOSED HIMSELF IN HILLSGROVE

A man with a history of sex crimes was taken into in custody this week for allegedly exposing himself outside of an ice cream shop in Hillsgrove.  According to North Central PA dot com, police say they received a report from the owner of the shop about 88 year old Louis Dastalfo of Shunk who had exposed himself in the past and was seen by victims again earlier this month  in his truck.  After a police interview, troopers allege even though Dastalfo says his behavior is innocent, the fact that he is a prior registered Megan’s Law offender and has repeated this behavior, says otherwise.  He is in Bradford County Prison in lieu of 10 thousand dollars bail, with a preliminary hearing in August.

GUILTY TROOPER IN FATAL ACCIDENT TRIAL SEEKS NEW TRIAL

After a guilty verdict in the case of a state trooper who police say crossed the center line of Route 6 in February of 2023, causing an accident that killed a Troy area school teacher, Michael Brown is now seeking a new trial.  According to PennLive, Brown’s attorney is claiming juror misconduct and want the judge to vacate his guilty verdict.  Brown and his lawyer also want the August 9th sentencing hearing to be continued so that four jurors in question could answer to their alleged misconduct, which included not disclosing an active arrest warrant, posting their intended verdict on social media and other allegations.

LINE PAINTING OVERNIGHT NEXT WEEK ON PA HIGHWAYS

There will line painting in north central Pennsylvania next week.  According to PennDOT, line painting operations Start Sunday at 7pm through 7am daily in Lycoming, Sullivan, Union, Snyder, Northumberland, Columbia and Montour Counties, weather permitting. The department asks for patience from motorists, and to stay back from and not pass the paint truck, as well as not driving on the wet paint lines. They will pull over periodically to allow traffic to pass.  You can can check conditions on major roadways 24/7 by visiting 511PA.com.

MILTON CHRISTMAS IN JULY EVENT

There will be an inaugural Christmas in July event in Milton this Saturday.  According to the Daily Item, the Milton Winterfest Committee is attempting to extend the Spirit they try to generate at Christmastime during the summer this year as well as to raise awareness for the wintertime event.  There will be a candy cane hunt, games and activities for the kids along with over 20 food and craft vendors plus fundraising auctions and drawings. The event is from 11am til 1pm at Brown Avenue Park.

SPORTS

Little League
PA State Tournament
Back Mountain 4  TriTown 1
TriTown  vs GreenCastle Tonight @ Newville 7pm

MLB Draft League
WV Black Bears 4  Williamsport Crosscutters 3
WV sweeps the series.
Cutters back home tonight hosting State College Spikes 6:35pm first pitch

MLB
Tigers  3 Guardians  0
Padres  3  Nationals 0
Orioles  7  Marlins  6
Mets 3  Braves  2
MLB Tonight
Guardians vs Phillies 6:40pm
Padrtes vs Orioles 7:05pm
Braves vs Mets 7:10pm
Yankees vs Red Sox  7:10pm ESPN+
Pirates vs Diamondbacks 9:40pm

Olympic News
Canada’s women’s national team head coach Bev Priestman has been removed from the country’s Olympic soccer team over a scandal involving the use of drones to spy on opponents’ practice.  The Canadian Olympic Committee said it made the decision after Canada Soccer decided to suspend Priestman for the remainder of the tournament.

Paris 2024 Opening Ceremonies Today
Streaming live @ 12pm NBC/Peacock, NBCOlympics.com
Primetime Replay 7:30pm  NBC

  • From a technical, television perspective, the extravaganza will be the most complicated event that has ever been produced. The Olympic Broadcasting Service (OBS) will operate 100 cameras along the parade route and each delegation will have access to a live mobile phone camera on the boat. NBC will be tracking Team USA’s route, and the Americans will be second-to-last down the river because the U.S. will host the 2028 Games in Los Angeles.

BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS JULY 25, 2024

ALLEGED SHOOTER’S MOTHER CHARGED AS ACCOMPLICE

The mother of the alleged shooter in an incident that happened in Loyalsock township that killed 15 year old Ahmeen Palmer is being charged as an accomplice to murder and her preliminary hearings started yesterday.  According to the Sun Gazette, Johneice Francin Legare faces 10 charges and most remain sealed from the public.  After an investigation, police say Legare drove the suspect to the East Third Street parking lot March 2nd allegedly to confront the victim, and after the shooting, drove away with the suspect in her car and cell phone records indicated they went to the Philadelphia area.  District Judge Gary Whiteman bound over all charges in the case and a trial date of Legare  has not been set.  The alleged suspect, Ja’hsir Legare, remains at large at this time.

COGAN STATION MAN ARRESTED FOR NOT PAYING TAXES

A man from Cogan Station was in U.S. Middle District Court this week and pleaded guilty to not paying taxes. According to Penn Live, J. Michael Barr, of Barr Construction, admitted to using a cash system between 2017 and 2020, paying out around 615 thousand dollars to his employees to avoid taxes.  He may now face up to two years in prison.  An amount of full restitution has yet to be determined at an upcoming hearing.  Barr is free pending an upcoming sentencing hearing.

FREE MEALS AT MONTOURSVILLE THIS YEAR

Students in Montoursville will not have to pay for meals this upcoming school year.  According to the district, students will receive one free breakfast and one free lunch on the days school is in session throughout the entire 2024-2025 schoolyear.  Students will be allowed to keep balances on their account and may use it for extra purchases, approved snacks or for drinks.  Details and a list of the prices for extra meals are on the Montoursville Area School District’s website for each school.

FAYLOR LAKE RECOGNIZED FOR DISC GOLF COURSE

Snyder County has been recognized by the National Association of Counties for their development of the Faylor Lake Disc Golf Course in Beavertown.  According to the Daily Item, the award is in the community and economic development category and calls the course an “outstanding government program.”  The course opened in 2021 and over time, the commissioners have installed a pavilion on the site, with seating and restrooms.  The 18 hole course was designed by Steve Braud and is maintained by Lee Zimmerman, regularly hosting disc golf tournaments in the past.

MAN CHARGED WITH MAKING FALSE STATEMENTS

A man from Hughesville who said he won the gun in a raffle is facing charges after he provided false information on an application to transfer a firearm into his name.  According to the Sun Gazette, police say Patrick Ranck knowingly lied on a federal form at Craig Dostick Guns in Muncy Creek Township, and that he had previously been convicted of charges that prohibit him from owning a gun.  He now faces felony attempted illegal transfer of a firearm and making false statements, but is free on 15 thousand dollars bail.

MAN CHARGED WITH ENDANGERMENT  AFTER CAR ACCIDENT

A Watsontown man was charged with endangering the welfare of children after two teens were injured during an accident in which the police say the man had been drinking.  According to the Daily Item, 51 year old Franklin Rovenolt was involved in a crash that he said was caused by hydroplaning around 10pm May 25th on Continental Boulevard in Limestone Township.  Police say his passengers suffered broken bones and cuts due to the accident.  Police say Rovenholt consented to a blood test, which measured his Blood alcohol content at .106 percent. He is free on 10 thousand dollars unsecured bail and will be in court for a preliminary hearing August 6th.

WASD SCHEDULES OPEN HOUSES

There are upcoming open houses at Williamsport Area schools for parents and students to get familiar with their new buildings and teachers.  Williamsport Area Middle School will hold their open house Tuesday, August 20th with separate times for 7th and 8th grade students.  Curtin and Lycoming Valley Intermediate Schools will hold their open houses Wednesday August 21st, and Primary Schools, Cochran, Hepburn-Lycoming and Jackson will hold their open house August 22nd – the same night as the High School.  Rising seniors can attend a “What’s my graduation plan?” session on Thursday the 22nd, too.  Get more specific times and details at wasd.org, under the academic calendar tab.  The first day of school for Williamsport is August 26th.

BASS TOURNAMENT IN LEWISBURG THIS WEEKEND

The race for Angler of the Year continues this weekend in Lewisburg during the Yamaha Rightwaters Bassmaster Kayak Series at Susquehanna River.  According to North Central PA dot com, the competitors will use Lewisburg is the home base but may launch from any public launch listed in the official rules at bassmaster.com.  The “Susky” is Saturday and Sunday and is hosted by Susquehanna River Valley Visitors Bureau.  Josh Chrenko from Indiana won the Kayak Series finale with a two-day total of 194 inches.

SPORTS

Little League State Championship
TriTown defeated West Point yesterday  4-3 in 7 innings
MLB Little League Today
Tri Town is in the winners’ bracket semifinals against Back Mountain 10am @ Newville

MLB Draft League
WV Black Bears 8       Williamsport Crosscutters 5 /8 innings – Rain
Cutters are in WV for Game 3 of the series tonight, then are back at home Friday hosting the State College Spikes 6:35pm first pitch

MLB
Guardians 2        Tigers  1
Pirates 5              Cardinals 0
Twins  5              Phillies 4
Marlins  6           Orioles  3
Padres  12           Nationals  3
Mets  12              Yankees 3
MLB Today
Padres  vs Nationals  12:05pm  ESPN+
Orioles  vs Marlins  12:10pm
Tigers vs Guardians  1:10pm
Braves vs Mets  7:10pm

Olympic News
US Men’s Soccer
 * United States men’s Olympic soccer team lost 3-0 to host country France in the tournament opener
* Tens of thousands of fans at Parc des Princes Stadium booed and hissed and whistled their way through the Israeli national anthem before the soccer match between Israel and Mali. Participants say the voices of Israel’s fans, even though in the minority, became loud enough to drown out the dissent.

BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS JULY 24, 2024

DALMATIA MAN CHARGED WITH ARSON

A man from Lower Mahanoy Township is being charged with arson after he allegedly set fire to his home at the 200 block of River Road on June 20th, the day it was scheduled to be up for a sheriff’s sale.  According to North Central PA dot com, after the fire officials found out that owner, 35 year old Andrew John Souder’s home had been up for sale that day, the state fire marshal got involved in the investigation.  Since the fire, Souder admitted he was behind on mortgage payments and claimed he had sent back payments that investigators said were never received.  He also claimed the fire on his insurance for over 300 thousand dollars. The PA State Police fire marshal has since determined the fire was intentionally set.  Souder is scheduled for a pre-trial conference August 2nd in a Northumberland County courtroom with Judge Paige Rosini.

SHERIFF’S OFFICE WARNS OF SCAMS

The Lycoming County Sheriff’s Office has issued a statement about calls and messages from a fake Sheriff Lusk, telling the phone owner they are being fined and must bring money to a specific location.  According to the Sun Gazette, the Lycoming County Sheriff’s Office says they are aware of a male caller attempting to scam county residents, after they have received calls from victims reporting the issue.  If you are a target of a scam call like this, never give personal information, and ask to call the agency right back if you want to be sure. The Sheriff’s Office will never call and ask to meet for a signature or take a check.  Report all scam calls to the Pennsylvania Attorney General at attorneygeneral.gov /submit-a-complaint.

WATSONTOWN BRIDGE TO CLOSE THIS WEEK

The Watsontown Bridge will close today for a week.  According to PennDOT, the bridge closure over the Susquehanna River in Union and Northumberland Counties will last until next Wednesday. The corridor carries Brimmer Avenue between Union and Northumberland County and has been closed off and on this year. Detours are in place on Route 44, Main Street, and Route 15. With delays expected on the Milton and Route 44 bridges.

PASSHE CHANCELLOR STEPPING DOWN

The man who has served as the chancellor of Pennsylvania’s State System of Higher Education (PASSHE) will end his 6 year tenure in October. According to the Daily Item, Dr. Dan Greenstein prepared an open letter to students, faculty, and staff at the 10 state-owned universities saying he was grateful for his time as chancellor and was glad to be able to help universities freeze tuition every year stressing affordability within the system.  An interim chancellor will be appointed when Greenstein ends his service and the Board of directors plan to start an national search for a qualified candidate.

MAN CHARGED FOR POSSESSING CHILD PORN

A Mifflinburg man who was found with dozens of pornographic images of children on several handheld devices was arrested last Thursday and charged for ten counts of possession of child pornography and a felony count of criminal use of a communication facility.  According to the Daily Item, 35 year old Aaron Reed Kahley was interviewed at his home in Union County July 18th,  after the Internet Crimes Against Children Taskforce received a referral about four Cybertip Line reports that were flagged with images attributed to devices and accounts connected to Kahley.  He was committed to Union County Jail in lieu of $50,000 cash bail, with a preliminary hearing August 20th.

RENOVO WOMAN SURVIVES ROLLOVER CRASH

A woman from Renovo survived a rollover crash that happened in Grugan Township July 5th.  According to the Lock Haven Express, 27 year old Tiffani Zinn in a 2020 Chevy Traverse was traveling near the 8400 Block of Renovo Road and traveled off the north side of the road.  State Police at Lamar say Zinn overcorrected and lost control of the car just after 3am and rolled several times on Renovo Road before striking an embankment and coming to a stop.  Zinn was not treated for any injuries, even though police say she was not wearing a seatbelt.

CHARGES FOR WOMAN WHO SOLD DRUGS TO INFORMANT

Charges have been filed against a Williamsport woman who allegedly sold suboxone strips to an undercover agent several times between October and January.  According to the Sun Gazette, the Narcotics Enforcement Unit gave 3 felony counts of delivery of a controlled substance and illegal use of a cell phone to  53 year old Lisa Hockaday, after at least one incident at West Third and Arch Streets, and several other in Linden.  Hockaday waived her preliminary hearing and is free on 15 thousand dollars bail.

WWII HONOR ROLL IN UNION COUNTY RESTORED

A fundraising campaign in Mifflinburg has brought about the completed restoration of the Union County World War II Honor Roll at the memorial at Mifflinburg Community Park along North Fifth Street. According to the Daily Item, the bronze panels were refurbished and the bricks and concrete around the memorial were restored.  The Union County Veterans Foundation raised about 19 thousand dollars for the project and costs were about 16 thousand.  The remaining funds will be used for maintaining the memorial, paying the caretaker and future projects. There will be a rededication during the annual Veterans Day program at 11am November 9th.

SPORTS

Little League State Championships Today
Tri-Town will face West Point at 10 a.m. in Newville 

MLB Draft League
WV Black Bears 5  Williamsport Crosscutters 0
Cutters stay on the road for Game2 against the Black Bears tonight.  Thye return to Williamsport Friday night against the State College Spikes 6:35pm first pitch.

MLB
Guardians  5        Tigers  4
Marlins  6             Orioles  3
Cardinals 2                    Pirates  1
Padres 4               Nationals 0
Mets 3                  Yankees  2
Phillies  3             Twins  0
MLB Today
Cardinals vs Pirates  12:35pm
Phillies  vs Twins 1:10pm ESPN+
Orioles vs Marlins 6:40pm
Tigers vs Guardians 6:40pm
Padres vs Washington 6:45pm
Mets vs Yankees 7pm ESPN

Olympic News
Women’s Basketball
* The US women’s Olympic basketball team beat Germany 84-57 in an exhibition game in London.  These two teams are in the same pool in the Olympics and will play again in the Paris Games on August 4th.
Gymnastics
* Simone Biles, 27, has won every all-around competition she has entered in more than a decade.
* She’s a nine-time national champion, a six-time world champ and the 2016 Olympic all-around gold medalist.
* Biles could become the first gymnast to win Olympic gold in nonconsecutive Games after she took two years off after the Tokyo Olympics.

Golf News
* Tiger Wood’s son Charlie shot a 10-over 80 yesterday and missed the cut at 22 over through two rounds at the U.S. Junior Amateur.
* The 15-year-old Woods, who earned a spot in the 264-player field last month, finished near the bottom of the pack with his famous father, in attendance.

BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS JULY 23, 2024

SUNBURY MAN ACCUSED OF ASSAULT CASE HELD FOR COURT

A judge from Northumberland County decided Monday that there is enough evidence to move forward in a trial against a man from Sunbury who police say committed sexual assault against a 15 year old last November.  According to the Daily Item, the victim reported the incident in January after she said 21 year old Anthony Ponce were together playing video games when the assault occurred.  Ponce first denied the allegations but then in an interview in February admitted to the assault.  His attorney had originally asked for the case to be dismissed, but the case will now go to court.

TWO ADULTS CHARGED WITH CORRUPTION OF MINORS

Two adult women who previously worked for Keystone Central school district as staff support, have now been charged with corruption of minors.  According to the Lock Haven Express, 36 year old Dana Ann Kitchen of Lock Haven and 29 year old Brittany Kay Koch from Beech Creek were each found to have sent sexually explicit messages to a 14 year old juvenile while they were employed at the school.  As a result of the investigation into the inappropriate relationships, Kitchen and Koch were taken into custody Friday and incarcerated at the Clinton County Correctional facility in lieu of 25 thousand dollars bail.

JERSEY SHORE ROAD WORK THIS WEEK

Daytime work is going on this week for the box culvert replacement spanning Lawshe Run and will affect traffic along Main Street and Main Street/River Road in both directions in Jersey Shore Borough and Porter, Piatt, and Nippenose townships. According to PennDOT,  Route 44 is scheduled to be closed through the summer at the Jersey Shore Borough / Piatt Township line.  A detour will be in place using Route 220, Thomas and Allegheny Streets through September 20th. Get details about road conditions 24/7 at 511PA dot com.

NATIONAL NIGHT OUT EVENTS IN AUGUST

Three National Night Out events will be happening in Lycoming County this August, as the Lycoming Regional Police Department partners with Seneca Resources to bring about camaraderie between the community and law enforcement.  The annual event held this year on August 4th, will provide fun free activities at Fairlawn Community Church, Old Lycoming Township Park, and Crossroads Church from 6 to 8pm in each location.  National night out was started to give citizens the opportunity to interact with police in a casual, stress-free environment.

Three National Night Out events will be happening in Lycoming County this August, as the Lycoming Regional Police Department partners with Seneca Resources to bring about camaraderie between the community and law enforcement.  The annual event held this year on August 4th, will provide fun free activities at Fairlawn Community Church, Old Lycoming Township Park, and Crossroads Church from 6 to 8pm in each location.  National night out was started to give citizens the opportunity to interact with police in a casual, stress-free environment.

State police in Towanda recently arrested a Rome woman after finding the car she drove contained illegal drugs and paraphernalia. According to North Central PA dot com, the 38 year old Ashley Sarah Richlin was pulled over by state police for window tint. During the stop officers noticed the smell of marijuana and Richlin’s bloodshot eyes. In a search of the vehicle, it was found Richlin was carrying methamphetamine and marijuana as well as drug supplies and a handgun. Richlin is being charged with possession with intent to deliver, possession of a controlled substance, and improper sun screening. She is arraigned on $100,000 bail.

WOMAN WHO ALLOWED ABUSE OF DAUGHTER PLEADS GUILTY

The woman who allowed her boyfriend to sexually assault her young daughter in 2022 during a drug binge, pleaded guilty in Lycoming County Court last week.  According to North Central PA dot com, 35 year old Michelle Renae Strayer admitted to allowing the assault and will face five felony counts and a misdemeanor including obstruction of justice.  The man involved in the crime, Marcus Drake McDaniel, has been found guilty on multiple counts, and has already been sentenced to multiple years in state prison.

BLUE ENVELOPE TO HELP LAW ENFORCEMENT

A blue envelope program has begun in Northumberland to help law enforcement there communicate with drivers they come in contact with who are on the autism spectrum.  According to the Northumberland Police Department, the voluntary program is a way to keep important documents like registration, insurance card, and driver’s license, in a blue envelope that lists instructions about the best way for the officer to interact with the person who is challenged with communicating during a stressful interaction. Contact the Northumberland Police department to obtain an envelope.

STAR GAZING PARTY IN RYDER PARK

An opportunity to participate in a star party and night sky watching at Ryder Park in Trout Run is coming up in August.  According to the Sun Gazette, the Cntral Pennsylvania Observers will host the event that invites registered participants to the park at 8:30pm August 9th with binoculars, a chair, warm clothes and red flashlights if possible.  To register call 570-321-1500 or email [email protected].  An email will follow with information.

SPORTS

Little League PA State Championship
Tri-Town will face West Point on Wednesday at 10 a.m. in Newville 

MLB Draft League
Williamsport Crosscutters are on the road tonight with the WV Black Bears starting a 3-Game series.  They’re home again Friday hosting the State College Spikes at Journey Bank Ballpark/Historic Bowman Field 6:35pm first pitch

MLB
Tigers  8     Guardians  2
Yankees  9  Rays  1
Mets  6       Marlins  4
Pirates  2    Cardinals  1
Twins  7     Phillies 2
MLB Tonight
Orioles vs Marlins  6:40pm
Cardinals vs Pirates  6:40pm
Padres vs Nationals  6:45pm
Mets vs Yankees 7:05pm TBS
Phillies vs Twins  7:40pm


Pre-Olympic Tour Basketball
 Team USA 92   Germany 88 

Olympic Facts
* The 2024 Paris Olympics will take place from July 26 to August 11th
* The games will take place in 17 different cities across metropolitan France and Tahiti who is hosting the two-day surfing competition 9,765 miles from Paris.
* The opening ceremony of the 2024 Paris Olympics will take place July 26 in the heart of Paris along the Seine River.
* The 2024 Games will be the first to have an equal number of men and women participants with a total of 206 countries represented.

BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS JULY 12, 2024

FATAL ATV ACCIDENT IN BRADFORD COUNTY

A man from Rome, PA was killed in an ATV accident Saturday, July 6th near Windham, PA.  According to State police at Towanda, 30 year old Nicholas Byrne suffered a fatal head injury when he failed to negotiate a left turn while driving his 2010 Yamaha Raptor and hit a tree on Hickeys Rocks Road, just north of Greek Road in Bradford County.  Police say the accident happened around 10:30pm and that Byrne wasn’t wearing a helmet or any other safety equipment at the time of the crash and  died from his injuries at the scene.  The Warren Township Fire Department and the Bradford County Coroner assisted with the accident. 

CHILD REPORTS ABUSE TO TROOPERS IN MONTOURSVILLE

A child from Montgomery went to the State police barracks July 4th and reported that her family member threw her and physically abused her, leading to the man’s arrest.  According to North Central PA dot com, the victim showed police bruising on her ribs and foot from the altercation that took place at a home on Cemetery Hill Road.  Troopers took 60 year old Anthony Maurice Kovaleski into custody and charged him with endangering the welfare of children, simple assault, and harassment.  He is free today on 10 thousand dollars bail.

FOREVER STAMP PRICES GOING UP

The USPS has announced a price increase – again for forever stamps and other post office services.  According to the Postal Regulatory Commission, this is the 19th stamp rate change since 2000 and the fifth rate hike in two years.  Stamp prices are set to increase by 5 cents this month with certified mail and money order fees also set to increase.  The price of a First-Class Mail Forever stamp will increase from 68 cents to 73 cents on July 14, and first class mail rates increasing by roughly 7.8%.

UPTOWN MUSIC COLLECTIVE TO PERFORM IN MUNCY

The Uptown Music Collective will be featured in Muncy at a mid-summer event called “Pops at Pepper Street” – a free-to-the-public concert coming up on August 3rd.  According to the Muncy Historical Society, they’ll host the students from the UMC’s renowned performance program for a second year, and they will present music for all ages at the Schuyler Memorial Stadium on the Muncy Junior-Senior High School campus starting at 7pm.  Free popcorn and other food will be available for purchase from the Muncy Music Association and Boy Scout Troop No. 25.  In case of bad weather the concert will be held indoors.  Get details at Muncy Historical Society’s Facebook page.

SUNBURY WOMAN WANTED FOR QUESTIONING IN NYC HOMICIDE

A woman from Pennsylvania is a person of interest in a homicide investigation in New York City, after the man she lives with in Sunbury was discovered stabbed to death in a Brooklyn apartment.  According to the Daily Item, police say Maurice Freeman was seen arguing with the woman around 5:15 am Monday before she allegedly fled from the scene in a car registered to an address in Northumberland County.  Police report a blood trail was found at 1491 Shore Parkway in the city, that went from the apartment where Freeman was discovered, across a street to a nearby park.  Freeman was hospitalized but died from his injuries.  The Sunbury Police Chief are diverting all questions about the case to the NYPD, and more information is expected to be released as the investigation continues.

TWO SHAMOKIN MEN ARRESTED FOR BREAKING IN, DRUG POSSESSION

Two men from Shamokin were arrested after witnesses called police as they were breaking into a property on North Shamokin Street.  According to The news Item, 28 year old Logan C. Faust and 33 year old Zebulon J. Keefe were apprehended by police who were alerted to the break in at about 10 am Tuesday.  K9 Pax from Coal Township was also called to the scene as well and officers discovered methamphetamine and drug paraphernalia on the two men.  Faust and Keefer were charged with criminal trespass, drug possession, criminal mischief and disorderly conduct and are in Northumberland County Jail in lieu of $7,500 cash bail.

CHANGES FOR SOME LYCO POLLING SITES

Changes to some polling sites in Lycoming County were approved yesterday by Lycoming County Board of Elections  as they work to bring all the sites into compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act.  According to Forrest Lehman, director of Voter Services, one long term change is for Anthony Township to move their polling site to Anthony Baptist Church at 4750 Quenshukeny Road, and Wards 3 and 4 in the Jersey Shore Borough will now vote at the Mountain View Alliance Church at 1515 Cemetery Street.  Get information about polling locations at lyco.org under voter services.

REPAVING PROJECT TO HAPPEN SUNDAY OVERNIGHT

There will be overnight resurfacing work starting Sunday on Route 87 in Montoursville Borough, Fairfield Township, Upper Fairfield Township, and Plunketts Creek Township. According to Penn DOT, there will be milling and paving along Route 87 between the 180 overpass in Montoursville Borough and Snyder’s Country Pet Food  between the hours of 9pm and 6am. Watch for single lane conditions with flaggers on the scene overnight through the work zone.

SPORTS

MLB Draft League
Thunder 2            Crosscutters 1
The Cutters dropped Game 3 in the series with Thunder this week, but have a 20-8 record for the first half of the season and head out to West Virginia tonight for a two-game road trip. 

MLB
Tigers   10            Guardians 1
Mets 7                  Nationals 0
Pirates 1               Brewers 0
Phillies  5             Dodgers  1
Cubs  8                 Orioles  0
Rays  5                 Yankees  4



MLB Tonight
Oakland A’s vs Phillies  6:40pm
Guardians vs Rays  AppleTv
Yankees vs Orioles  7:05 ESPN+
Pirates  vs White Sox  8:10pm
Nationals  vs Brewers 8:10pm


NASCAR Sunday
The Great American Getaway 400 presented by VisitPA.comPocono Raceway, Long Pond
1:30 PreRace Coverage/ 2:30 Green Flag racing

NBA News
*  Kyle Lowry announced on Instagram on Thursday that he has agreed to remain with the Philadelphia 76ers.  The deal is for one year, for Lowry to return to his hometown Sixers where he’ll shore up a veteran bench including Joel Embiid, Tyrese Maxey and Paul George.
*  38 year old Lowry joined Philadelphia in the spring after being bought out by the Charlotte Hornets, who had acquired him in a trade with the Miami Heat.

ESPY AWARDS
The 2024 ESPY Awards was hosted by tennis legend Serena Williams at the Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles lastnight
 * They recognized the athletes who have died this year, including Willie Mays, Bill Walton and Jerry West.
*  Legendary college football coach Nick Saban was given the ESPY icon award for all his achievements during his Alabama coaching tenure, including six national championships at Alabama, and with the one title he won at LSU, he has the most for any coach in NCAA Division I history.
*  Special award presentations included the Arthur Ashe Award for Courage for Steve Gleason, the former NFL safety who had been diagnosed with ALS and gave an emotional acceptance speech.  The Jimmy V Award for Perseverance was given toDawn Staley, South Carolina women’s basketball coach, and the Pat Tillman Award for Service was given to Prince Harry, the Duke of Sussex for his work on the Invictus Games that benefits wounded veterans.

BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS JULY 11, 2024

SUNBURY TEEN ARRESTED FOR THREATENING CLERK WITH A KNIFE

A teenager from Sunbury was taken into custody Sunday after he was seen on video surveillance stealing tobacco products from a convenience store and threatening the employee with a knife.  According to North Central PA dot com, police say 17 year old Jonathon E. Bishop-Heshmat was seen inside the Penn Jersey Mart on North Fourth Street at about 10pm and that the clerk there suspected he was stealing items, and confronted the teenager.  Bishop-Heshmat then took tobacco items, struck the clerk in the chest, and flashed a knife before he left the store. The teen was charged with felony robbery and aggravated assault, along with several misdemeanors. Bail was set at  25 thousand dollars with a preliminary hearing July 16th.

MAN FLEES SCENE OF A FIERY CRASH IN SHAMOKIN

An investigation has begun after a man from Shamokin fled from a fiery vehicle accident July 3rd.  According to State police, 40 year old Nathan Forker was traveling on Klein Road heading west at about 11:50pm, and lost control of his car, going down an embankment and hitting a tree.  Police say the vehicle caught fire and became fully engulfed.  Forker was found a short distance away after he left the accident behind.  No word on any pending charges.

SQUATTERS RIGHTS CHALLENGED WITH NEW LEGISLATION

Legislation in Pennsylvania that could help landlords, and partially eliminate “squatters rights” is heading to the governor’s desk.  According to the Center Square, the bill sponsored by Senator Dan Laughlin of Erie will allow squatters to be charged with defiant trespass if they didn’t vacate when told to by the property owner.  The House passed the bill in June and this week it was passed in the House with advocates of the legislation saying it logically puts homeowner’s rights above a criminal’s rights.

CITY COUNCIL TO DECIDE ON POLICE PRESENCE AT CUTTERS GAMES

A vote is expected to take place at the Williamsport City Council meeting today about providing an extra-duty police officer at the home games of the Williamsport Crosscutters.  According to the Sun Gazette, council will decide whether one or two officers are needed for the 40 games that take place at Journey Bank Ballpark and Historic Bowman field. Council members on the public safety committee said that no officers would be taken from the patrol force to cover the ballpark – it would be an extra duty assignment.

YOUNG MAN INJURED IN MOTORCYCLE ACCIDENT

A 20 year old from Lewisburg was injured July 4th in a motorcycle crash in Buffalo Township.  According to the Daily Item, 20 year old Jace M Croutch was transported to Geisinger with suspected serious injuries when he was thrown from his motorcycle at the intersection of Buffalo Creek Road and Route 192 just after 11:15pm.  He was released from the hospital Monday after being treated for minor injuries.  State police say Croutch was not wearing a helmet or eye protection when he crested the hill, passing a horse & buggy at a high rate of speed before swerving and then sideswiping a vehicle stopped at Buffalo Creek Road before he was thrown from the bike.  Croutch has been charged with three summary traffic violations.

VICTIM IN HAMMER STRIKE ASSAULT DIES FROM OTHER CAUSES

The woman who was hit in the head with a hammer by her husband in Lewisburg June 16th passed away Sunday, but not from the injuries she sustained during the attack.  According to the Daily Item, the husband of 64 year old Cynthia Hope Kitchens, 66 year old Robert David Kitchens, of Buffalo Crossroads, is still in custody facing felony attempted homicide charges and other misdemeanors after he allegedly attacked his wife at home.  She had sought treatment at Evangelical Community Hospital for her life-threatening injuries where the incident was reported to police after which they took Kitchens into custody.    Officials say the woman’s death is the result of other health issues and will not elevate the charges to homicide when the husband faces a judge in Mifflinburg on August 13th.

MOBILE FOOD PANTRY RIBBON CUTTING

The official ribbon cutting for the Central Susquehanna Opportunities Mobile Food Pantry happened this week in Danville, bringing awareness to a new program that also involves funding from GIANT, Geisinger and M&T Bank.  According to Geisinger philanthropy officials, the goal of the Mobile Food Pantry is to address food insecurity and will make monthly stops to the Welsh Center in Coal Township, the Ber-Vaughn Park I Berwick and at the Danville Area Community Center.  Get information at csocares.org.

BEER DELIVERY COMING TO PA THROUGH SHEETZ MOBILE APP

Through an expanded partnership with a door-to door delivery company, Sheetz in Pennsylvania will be able to deliver alcoholic beverages from 269 of their stores to customers in Pennsylvania through their mobile app and website.  According to a statement by Sheetz, customers, who will be required to validate their age prior to purchase on the app, will be able to place beer orders online 7 days a week during certain hours. Go to orders.sheetz.com for information.

SPORTS

MLB Draft League
Williamsport Crosscutters is up one game in a 3 game series vs Trenton Thunder with last night’s match up cancelled due to rain.  They’ll try again tonight @ Journey Bank Ballpark/Historic Bowman Field 6:35pm 1st pitch.

MLB
Tigers 5      Guardians  4
Cubs  4       Orioles  0
Yankees 2  Rays 1
Phillies  4    Dodgers  3
Mets  6       Nationals  2
Brewers  9            Pirates  0
MLB Tonight
Nationals vs Mets  1:10pm
Pirates  vs Brewers 2:10PM
Dodgers vs Phillies  6:05pm
Cubs vs Orioles  6:35pm
Yankees vs Rays  6:50pm

Olympic Basketball
* Team USA completed a 86-72 victory over Team Canada in front of a record-setting crowd of 20,756 at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas for their 1st practice before Paris.
Anthony Edwards led Team USA with 13 points off the bench, and Anthony Davis had 10 points, 11 rebounds and 4 blocks
* It also was the first time Steph Curry and LeBronJames played together on Team USA, after Curry was part of two world-championship-winning teams in 2010 and 2014 and James won gold in the Olympics in 2008 and 2012.

Tennis Wimbledon
Men’s
Novak Djokovic moved into a record-tying 13th semifinal yesterday because his quarterfinal opponent and 9th seed Australian, Alex de Minaur, withdrew with a hip injury hours before he and Djokovic were scheduled to play each other on Centre Court.

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Jan 11

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