BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS MARCH 23, 2021

MAN WHO COMMITTED MULTIPLE VEHICULAR CRIMES IN CUSTODY
A man from Virginia is in custody after breaking the law in several Pennsylvania counties earlier this month.  According to state police 31-year old Ryan Da Silva of Virginia  Beach allegedly  threatened  people at a Danville area hotel on March 7th and  was also involved in a hit and run crash Selinsgrove where he then eluded police while continuing southbound on Route 11 to Adams county in south central PA.  State police in Gettysburg report that DeSilva was involved in another minor accident  in Adams county where police caught up with him and took him into custody.  Charges will be filed in multiple counties.

ACCESSIBILITY RAMP COMING TO CITY HALL
The city of Williamsport is moving forward with installing an accessible ramp at City Hall and they will take bids on the project until April 16th.  According to the Sun Gazette, initial projected costs have come down after city officials used preexisting designs and other cost cutting measures to save, even with the cost of steel increasing.  The city will meet accessibility requirements with the construction of the ramp as well as a remodel of the first floor elevator by November 10th, 2021, as part of the settlement agreement with advocate agencies for the disabled which was approved March 10th.

LOCAL COVID UPDATE
There are ten new cases of the coronavirus in Lycoming County as of yesterday, Northumberland’s cases are lower today, too at 8.  The Pennsylvania Department of Health confirmed a two-day total from Sunday and Monday of 3,920 additional positive cases and 14 new deaths attributed to COVID-19.  Lycoming County has 26 COVID-19 patients hospitalized, and 2 on a ventilator.

SOLAR ENERGY ON THE WAY IN PA
Solar arrays could be built in Columbia, Montour, Northumberland, and Snyder Counties according to a new solar energy initiative announced by Governor Tom Wolf yesterday.  Our four local counties are in addition to three other counties in Pennsylvania that will provide about half of the electricity used by state government and create about 400 jobs.  The Project to Utilize Light and Solar Energy, or PULSE, is set to begin operation in January of 2023 and according to energy officials will significantly reduce the state’s carbon footprint.

RESIDENT ESCAPES FREEBURG HOUSE FIRE
A Freeburg home was heavily damaged by a fire that also  killed the family’s dog yesterday. According to the Daily item, witnesses gathered outside the home on 303 New Market St while crews fought the blaze. The home was owned by Tim Weikel.  One person who lived in the home was home and escaped the flames according to neighbors who also said propane tanks bursting outside the home contributed to the fire.  Firefighters from Freeburg, Fremont, Middleburg, Kreamer, Selinsgrove, Port Trevorton, Kratzerville, Mifflinburg and Point Township were at the scene, for about four hours.

INMATE FACES MORE CHARGES
New charges have been filed against a man who was an inmate at SCI-Coal Township and wrote threatening letters to a Columbia County Court of Common Pleas judge, two members of the Scott Township police department and a 17 year old juvenile between June 22 and Oct. 23, 2020.  According to North Central PA dot com, 28 year old Shane Michael Banks, who currently is incarcerated at SCI-Albion on separate charges, faces felony intimidation charges and other harassment misdemeanors. Banks  is currently awaiting a preliminary hearing in Columbia County.

AGGRESSIVE DRIVING INITIATIVE IN PLACE
Northumberland area police traffic services as well as other municipal police forces will participate in an aggressive driving enforcement initiative starting  this week through April 25. According to a press release from the highway safety network there will be a targeted aggressive driving enforcement wave that will focus on speeding, aggressive and distracted driving plus work zone awareness, and residents who are stopped for these violations will receive a ticket. The annual PennDOT education project is funded by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

CDC UPDATES MASK GUIDANCE
Mask mandates in Pennsylvania have been updated by the Acting Secretary of the Pennsylvania Department of Health.  According to Alison Beam, fully vaccinated people can visit with other vaccinated people without a mask, as well as visit unvaccinated people at low risk.  However, Beam says fully vaccinated people should continue masking and distancing in public, and continue to avoid large-sized in-person gatherings.  People are considered fully vaccinated for COVID more than two weeks after receiving the second of a two-dose series, or more than two weeks after receiving a single dose vaccine

 

SPORTS
HS Boys Basketball
P I-AA Class AAA Semifinals
Loyalsock vs. Math Civics and Sciences @ LaSalle college 7pm tonight.

 

BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS MARCH 22, 2021

RALLY IN LOCK HAVEN TO PROTEST INTEGRATION
There was a rally in downtown Lock Haven Saturday in protest to the integration of the higher education system in Pennsylvania which could possibly combine the Clinton County university with Mansfield and Bloomsburg universities.  According to the Sun Gazette, about 100 people were in Triangle park this weekend voicing concerns about the termination of staff at the school, with over 50 staff jobs proposed to be eliminated.  Community members and local unions voiced criticism of the chancellor of the PA State System of Higher Education, Dan Greenstein for his role in the integration proposal.

MAN CHARGED AFTER HIDING GUN IN BUSHES
A Clinton County man has been charged with reckless endangerment and disorderly conduct after he hid a handgun in some bushes before entering through security at the Williamsport Regional Airport in Montoursville last October.  According to the Sun Gazette, presidential security detail found the  loaded gun which was registered to 61 year old Randall McIntosh of Mill Hall, who said he put the gun in the brush as to avoid returning to his car on the night President Trump was making a quick campaign stop at the airport.  McIntosh waived his preliminary hearing and was released on $5,000 bail

RENT RELIEF AVAILABLE IN PENNSYLVANIA
Rapid relief to millions of Pennsylvanians at risk of eviction or loss of utility service was announced yesterday by Governor Tom Wolf in the Emergency Rental Assistance Program.  And it will distribute about $569 million to Pennsylvania households with an additional $278 million in rental assistance to Pennsylvania’s largest counties by the federal government. According to northcentralpa.com households may be eligible for up to 12 months of assistance to cover past-due or future rental and/or utility payments.  Effective today, Pennsylvanians can submit applications for the Emergency Rental Assistance Program online at www.compass.state.pa.us

ROAD CONSTRUCTION IN LINDEN
PennDOT will be working the safety improvement project along Route 220 northbound and southbound starting today in Woodward and Piatt Townships.  Motorists should note some closures today.  Construction will close the eastern exit at the Sheetz in Linden, so use South Pine Run Road to enter Route 220 northbound.  A detour using Pine Run Road and Route 220 will be in place for closures affecting Youngs Road East and West.  In addition, Front Street in Linden will be open to local traffic only. Speeds will also be reduced along 220and two lanes of traffic will be maintained.

LOCAL MAN INVOLVED IN SOUTHERN PA CRASH
A man from Mount Carmel was involved in a serious crash that shut down I-81 southbound last Monday in Schuylkill County.  According to state police in Frackville, 57-year old Randall Edwards was driving a tractor trailer on I-81 in Ryan Township and went off the roadway around 4:15 pm, traveled down a steep embankment, and overturned into a wooded area. Edwards was flown to Geisinger after being rescued from the vehicle.  He was later treated and released. Both sides of I-81 South shut down for about a half hour during the recovery. Police are investigating.

TASK FORCE TO STUDY LAW ENFORCEMENT BEST PRACTICES
New legislation was introduced in Harrisburg Friday identifying best practices for law enforcement to prevent otherwise-peaceful demonstrations in state cities from escalating to violent protests. According to trackbill.com, Senate Resolution 52 establishes a 20-member task force to study law enforcement procedures for responding to large-scale demonstrations, such as crowd control tactics and less-than-lethal force.  Task force members including members of state legislation, police departments and local governments will recommend potential changes to state law.  Public stakeholders would offer input to the task force through a process to be established by the Joint State Government Commission

VACCINATIONS IN PENNSYLVANIA ROLLING OUT QUICKER
The Wolf administration along with Alison Beam, Acting Secretary of Health detailed the state’s vaccination rollout progress as the process accelerates and Pennsylvania outperforms its peer states. According to Governor Wolf, the pace of vaccinations in Pennsylvania is accelerating each day and the commonwealth is committed to vaccinating everyone in Phase 1A.  An analysis of CDC data on the number of vaccines administered per 100,000 of population through March 17th , puts Pennsylvania second in the nation behind only New Mexico.  In Pennsylvania 24% of the population has their first doses, 12% are fully vaccinated.

RESTAURANT CONSTRUCTION ALLOWED TO BEGIN
The development plan allowing two new businesses to start construction in Muncy Township has been approved by the Lycoming County Planning Commission last week.  According to the Sun gazette, construction for  a Starbucks and Chick-fil-A restaurant can  begin at the Lycoming Crossing property. Township supervisors have already approved the plan for the new development.

 

BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS MARCH 21, 2021

DRUG ARREST ON INTERSTATE 80

Before 2pm, March 1, On Interstate 80 West in Union County, two New York men were stopped by PSP Milton and were allegedly in possession of several pounds of cocaine and marijuana. According northcentralpa.com, Vidal Ortiz Jr., 25, of Elmhurst, N.Y.  and Douglas A. Gilliam, 38, of Bronx, N.Y., were charged with multiple felonies and arraigned that evening in front of District Judge Mensch. Bail was set at $300,000 monetary. Ortiz and Gilliam were remanded to Union County Jail with preliminary hearings scheduled for both for March 23.

LOCAL COVID NUMBERS

The Pa. Dept. of Health registered the first time in more than a month with at least 4,000 active COVID cases in a single day. Locally there were 36 new cases in Northumberland County, 13 in Snyder, 8 in Union and 7 in Montour. Clinton County, up 18; Centre County, up 85;  and Lycoming County up 47 COVID cases today.

LHU EMPLOYEES CONCERNED OVER FUTURE JOB STABILITY

Members of AFSCME Council 13 Local 2360 at Lock Haven University were in Triangle Park yesterday expressing their concerns about a proposed outsourcing of jobs. Shawn O’Dell, Local 2360 President, according to  therecord-online, the school’s proposed outsourcing could eliminate over 50 staff jobs.  In addition, the local university could be  facing a considerable faculty downsizing as part of the proposed integration between Lock Haven University, Bloomsburg and Mansfield universities.

POLICE OFFICER BACK TO WORK IN LYCOMING COUNTY

A police officer in Lycoming County initially accused of attempting to rape a disabled woman completed probation for disorderly conduct and according to northcentralpa.com now is patrolling Muncy Borough. Laurence C. Wilcox Jr., 71, pleaded guilty to one third-degree misdemeanor count of disorderly conduct on Jan. 14, 2020, and was sentenced to a six-month probation term with administrative release after three month. Montgomery Borough Police suspended Wilcox at the time of his 2019 arrest.

ATTEMPTED SEXUAL ASSAULT OF MINORS

Posing to be juvenile boys wanting to meet adult males, Lycoming Coungy Detectives set up an operation and arrested the men who allegedly showed up. In separate criminal complaints, George A. Richner, 52, of Muncy, and Todd A. Mertz, 38, of Williamsport, each face multiple felonies. According to northcentralpa.com,  Richner was confined to the Lycoming County Prison on March 5 before posting $125,000 monetary bail on March 8. He’s scheduled for an April 8 preliminary hearing before Magisterial District Judge Aaron S. Biichle. Mertz IS currently on the intensive supervised bail program with bail set at $99,000 unsecured. He’s scheduled for a March 29 formal arraignment before Lycoming County Judge Marc F. Lovecchio.

SUSQUEHANNA UNIVERSITY GRAUATION SCHEDULE

Susquehanna University has announced Commencement plans for both the Class of 2021 and the Class of 2020. According to a media outlet, Susquehanna will host graduation ceremonies for the Class of 2021 at three separate times in the Field House of the James W. Garrett Sports Complex on Saturday, May 15 at 10 a.m.; Saturday, May 15 at 2 p.m.; and Sunday, May 16 at 10 a.m. Commencement will be livestreamed as well as recorded. In addition, the in-person Commencement ceremony for the Class of 2020 is scheduled for Saturday, May 22 at 10 a.m.

HELP FOR PENNSYLVANIANS FROM THE EMERGENCY RENTAL ASSISTANCE PROGRAM

Rapid relief to millions of Pennsylvanians at risk of eviction or loss of utility service was announced yesterday by Governor Tom Wolf in the Emergency Rental Assistance Program.  And it will distribute about $569 million to Pennsylvania households with an additional $278 million in rental assistance to Pennsylvania’s largest counties by the federal government. According to northcentralpa.com households may be eligible for up to 12 months of assistance to cover past-due or future rental and/or utility payments.  Effective today, Pennsylvanians can submit applications for the Emergency Rental Assistance Program online at www.compass.state.pa.us

IN SPORTS

NCAA WRESTLING IN ST LOUIS

AT 165 POUNDS BUCKNELL’S ZACH HARTMAN FINISHED 6TH AND BECAME AN ALL-AMERICAN.

 

STATE PLAYOFF BASKETBALL: TRIPLE A BOYS QUARTERFINAL:

LOYALSOCK 79

EXECUTIVE EDUCATION 75

LANCERS ADVANCE TO FINAL FOUR

 

NHL

PENGUINS OVER THE DEVILS 3-1, PANTHERS SHUT OUT THE PREDATORS 2-0, AVALANCHE SHUT OUT THE WILD 6-0, LIGHTNING OVER THE BLACKHAWKS 4-1, STARS SHUT OUT THE RED WINGS 3-0, CANADIENS OVER THE CANUCKS 5-4, MAPLE LEAFS SHUT OUT THE FLAMES 2-0, RANGERS OVER THE CAPITALS 3-1, COYOTES BEAT THE DUCKS 5-1, BLUES OVER THE SHARKS 5-2, OILERS BEAT THE JETS 4-2

 

 

 

BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS MARCH 20, 2021

ASSAULT CHARGES IN POINT TOWNSHIP

After allegedly starting a fight with another man, Samuel Swinehart, Northumberland, smashed a car window with a shovel.  inside The vehicle, sat a toddler in the back seat. According to the Daily Item, on Feb 7, on Neitz Road , Point Township Patrolman Kevin Herring charged swinehart with multiple misdemeanors that were filed in the Milton office of District Judge Michael Diehl.

DUI ACCIDENT

He flipped his vehicle while driving intoxicated with a passenger on Feb 14 in Delaware township, Northumberland county. Tyler Carl Clark, Montgomery, with a blood-alcohol level of .178 percent, faces multiple misdemeanor violations when state police in Milton arrived on the scene of Clark’s one vehicle accident. According to the Daily Item, charges were filed in the Milton office of District Judge Michael Diehl.

HARASSMENT IN SNYDER COUNTY

A 54-year-old male and 37-year-old female  were threatened by the driver of a black Nissan pathfinder as they traveled on N Susquehanna trail, Snyder county, according to state police in Selinsgrove.  At one point, while stopped at a traffic light, the driver of the path finder, Ryan Savilva, Virginia Beach, Va, allegedly pointed a firearm at the male and female, threatening to kill them.  He then aggressively drove in front of them, slamming on his breaks and causing a rear end collision.  Following a verbal argument, Savilva fled the scene. According to northcentralpa.com, case remains open pending further court proceedings.

BAIL SET IN UNLAWFUL CONTACT

Bail was set at $25,000 unsecured today for a Pennsdale man accused by Lycoming County detectives of sending a pornographic video of himself to a 13-year-old girl faces charges. Jonathan Michael Kula, 24, had unlawful contact with a minor in Lycoming County on Dec. 22.. according to northcentralpal.com the original incident  began as a reported attempted child abduction at the Turkey Hill in Muncy.

THEFT

Maintenance equipment from a state game land storage facility in Gregg Township, Union County has been stolen. According to Pennsylvania State Police at Milton, a suspect(s) broke into the facility between Feb. 18 and March 9 and stole a Husqvarna orange push mower and a snapper push mower. Total value of items is just over $523. Northcentralpa.com reports, Anyone with information may contact PSP Milton at (570) 524-2662.

COVID-19 VACCINE PROGRAM IN GEISINGER

Its considered one of the largest in the commonwealth, it is Geisinger’s covid-19 vaccine program. And now, it is opening a waitlist for eligible folks to receive the COVID-19 Vaccine as part of Pennsylvania’s Phase 1A groups. Phase 1A-eligible community members interested in joining the waitlist can do so at geisinger.org/COVIDVax, on myGeisinger or by calling 570-284-3657.

GRADUATION AT SUSQUEHANNA UNIVERSITY

Susquehanna University has announced commencement plans for both the Class of 2021 and the Class of 2020. According to a media outlet, Susquehanna will host graduation ceremonies for the Class of 2021 at three separate times.  in the Field House of the James W. Garrett Sports Complex on Saturday, May 15 at 10 a.m.; Saturday, May 15 at 2 p.m.; and Sunday, May 16 at 10 a.m. Commencement will be live-streamed as well as recorded. In addition, the in-person Commencement ceremony for the Class of 2020 is scheduled for Saturday, May 22 at 10 a.m.

EMERGENCY RENTAL ASSISTANCE PROGRAM

Rapid relief to millions of Pennsylvanians at risk of eviction or loss of utility service was announced yesterday by Governor Tom Wolf in the Emergency Rental Assistance Program and it will distribute about $569 million to Pennsylvania households With An additional $278 million in rental assistance to Pennsylvania’s largest counties by the federal government. According to northcentralpa.com, households may be eligible for up to 12 months of assistance to cover past-due or future rental and/or utility payments.  Effective today, Pennsylvanians can submit applications for the Emergency Rental Assistance Program online at www.compass.state.pa.us.

NCAA WRESTLING

165 POUND SEMIFINAL SHANE GRIFFITH OF STANFORD DEFEATED BUCKNELL’S ZACH HARTMAN 9-2

STATE PLAYOFF BASKETBALL TRIPLE A GIRLS QUARTERFINAL

West Catholic over Loyalsock  62-52

DOUBLE A GIRLS QUARTERFINAL

Mount Carmel over Holy Cross 50-47

SINGLE A BOYS BASKETBALL

Pottsville Nativity BVM over Saint John Neumann 72-70

DISTRICT 4/9 CLASS AAA DUALS

Roman Morrone and Sebastian Robinson produced back-to-back falls to secure Williamsport’s 48-21 win over Clearfield in the District 4/9 Class AAA Duals final yesterday. according to Sun Gazette, The Millionaires won a second consecutive district championship. Williamsport will be moving on to the PIAA Class AAA Team Wrestling Championships in Bellefonte on Wednesday night in the quarterfinals.

The District 6 Class AAA competition from the State College auditorium had the  Millionaires over the Little Lions by roughly a second to not only win the District 4/6 Class AAA championship. According to the Sun Gazette,  Williamsport’s Pardoe swam a 52.9-second split in her final leg of the 400 freestyle relay to help Williamsport win district gold and qualify for today’s PIAA Class AAA Swimming Championships at Cumberland Valley High School.

 

 

 

 

BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS MARCH 19, 2021

SEVENTEEN FELONY CHARGES, FOLLOWING INTENTIONAL FIRE

A 34-year-old mother of children ages 6-14, blocked off exits then, as she and her four children were trapped inside their High Street Apartment, she set it on fire, according to reports from Sun Gazette on Thursday morning.  The children escaped their mother and the fire. The children were uninjured. Latoya Nicole Hall, of 1493 High St., was arrested on a total of 17 felony charges and committed to the Lycoming County Prison after District Judge Christian Frey denied her bail.

CITY HALL SECURITY

A security officer for City Hall, according to Williamsport Mayor Derek Slaughter, would keep people from wandering aimlessly through the entire building.  While logistics for a front desk agent are in the works, Mayor Slaughter stressed the importance of security before reopening City Hall.  The building was closed last March in an attempt to reduce the spread of COVID-19 through staff and visitors. According to Sun Gazette, there were no cost estimates presented to council for a security or front desk addition to the first floor.

ROADWORK BEGINNING MARCH 22

Motorists traveling on Interstate 180 westbound and eastbound are advised of a long-term guide rail project begining Monday, March 22, in Lycoming County. According to the Milton Standard Journal, Green Acres Contracting Co. Inc. will install guide rail upgrades along Interstate 180 westbound and eastbound in Fairfield Township, Montoursville Borough, Loyalsock Township and the City of Williamsport, Lycoming County. Motorists should expect lane restrictions, as the work takes place 6pm to 6am. The project will take weeks to complete.

COVID-19 UPDATE

Department of Health reports the statewide COVID cases rose by 3,126. Locally, Lycoming County 35 new, Northumberland 17 new, Snyder 8 new, Union 8 new, Columbia 6 new and Montour County 5 new COVID cases reported today.

THE GALLERY AT PENN COLLEGE “NOT A BREATH OF WIND”

A virtual display of kinetic sculptures and carved objects runs March 16 through April 26 on the Gallery at Penn College’s website. “Not a Breath of Wind” is the lastest online exhibit, showcasing work by John Douglas Powers, an associate professor of sculpture and time-based art at the University of Tennessee. According to the Milton Standard Journal, this virtual exhibit”is the seventh online presentation offered by The Gallery at Penn College since last spring. The show runs in tandem with another online exhibit, “Second Nature,” which can also be viewed in person at the gallery through April 9.

CENTRAL MOUNTAIN GIRLS BASKETBALL TEAM RECOGNIZED FOR SUCCESS

Members of the Central Mountain girls’ basketball team, Heartland Conference champions, were recognized for their outstanding season when conference honors were announced this week.  According to the Record-online.com, this year’s squad finished as Class 5A District 6/8/9 runner-up and won the Heartland Conference large school division.

CHILD PORNOGRAPHY CHARGES IN LOCK HAVEN

A long, detailed investigation led to a Lock Haven man and child pornography on his computer. State police from the organization’s Northeast Computer Crime Unit obtained a computer for evidence and  Brendon William Griffin, 21,  Lock Haven was arrested, arraigned and placed in the Clinton County Correctional Facility in default of $100,000 bail. A preliminary hearing date will be set within the next seven days. The hearing will be before the Honorable Judge Keith G. Kibler.

PA TAX DEADLINE EXTENDED

Pennsylvania is moving its tax filing deadline to May 17 in a move mirroring a step taken by the IRS on Wednesday, meaning the Department of Revenue will waive penalties and interest on final 2020 personal income tax returns and payments through the new deadline. In an announcement by the IRS, under Pennsylvania law, the deadline for filing state income tax returns is tied to the deadline set at the federal level.  Individual taxpayers can also postpone federal income tax payments for the 2020 tax year due on April 15, 2021, to May 17, 2021, without penalties and interest, regardless of the amount owed, the IRS said.

FELONY FIREARM CHARGES AT BLOOMSBURG UNIVERSITY

A Philadelphia man was charged with two felonies after a loaded gun was discovered inside a dorm room on Bloomsburg University campus. According to the Daily Item, on Feb. 15, Antonio Quahdeir Neal, 20, of Philadelphia, allegedly brought a loaded firearm into the Jessica Kozloff apartments, located on the campus of Bloomsburg University. Neal was charged with two second-degree felonies of receiving stolen property and possessing a firearm with manufacturer numbers altered. Neal was also charged with a first-degree misdemeanor of firearm not to be carried without a license.

AMERICAN RESCUE PLAN AND VALLEY SCHOOLS

Valley school districts will receive a combined $49 million of Pennsylvania’s allocation from the newly passed American Rescue Plan. Just how districts can spend that money remains to be seen, but federal officials say districts should expect the money soon and want to see it spent quickly. According to the Daily Item, Pennsylvania schools will share $4.9 billion of the $122 billion in relief for K-12 schools across the nation.Valley schools will see between $1.6 million (Southern Columbia) and $6.5 million (Shikellamy). Selinsgrove is projected to receive $4.9 million And Warrior Run, $3.5 million.

FEMA PROVIDES ASSISTANCE DURING THE PANDEMIC

The Federal Emergency Management Agency has announced that, in April,  it will start reimbursing families for COVID-19 related funerals.As reported on the FEMA website, Under the Coronavirus Response and Relief Supplemental Appropriations Act of 2021 and the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021, FEMA will provide financial assistance for COVID-19-related funeral expenses incurred after January 20, 2020. According to the Daily Item, to be eligible, FEMA said the death must have occurred in the United States, including the U.S. territories, and the District of Columbia. The person applying must be a U.S. citizen, non-citizen national, or qualified alien who incurred funeral expenses after Jan. 20, 2020. FEMA said it will begin accepting applications in April. For more details, visit FEMA.gov.

MARCH MADNESS

Texas Southern over Mount St Mary’s 60-52, Drake by one point over Wichita State 53-52, Norfolk State defeats Appalachian State in a one point game at 54-53 and UCLA wins over Michigan State 86-80

NHL

Devils over the Penguins 3-2, Bruins top the Sabres 4-1, Flyers over the Islanders 4-3, Blue Jackets defeat the Hurricanes 3-2, the Lightning over the Blackhawks 4-2, the Predators defeated the Panthers 2-1, Red Wings over the Stars 3-2, Oilers beat the Jets 2-1, Avalanche over the Wild 5-1 and in overtime it  was the Ducks over the Coyotes 3-2

MONTGOMERY AREA SCHOOL DISTRICT  NEW HEAD VARSITY FOOTBALL COACH

The Montgomery area school district has approved the hiring of Christian Digs as the new head varsity football coach. According to SUN Gazette, the board also approved Brady Chappell  the a new volunteer varsity baseball coach.

CHAMPIONSHIP HIGH SCHOOL SPORTS SCHEDULE

PIAA Basketball playoffs  Class AAA Girls Quarterfinals: Loyalsock at West Catholic tonight 6:30pm.

Class A Boys Quarterfinals: St John Neuman at Nativity BVM tonight 7:00pm.

Class AAA Boys Quarterfinals:  Executive Education at Loyalsock Sat 1:00pm.

BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS MARCH 18, 2021

SHIKELLAMY BOYS BASKETBALL

It’s a disappointing end to an incredible season for the Shikellamy Boys Basketball, after more positive tests of COVID-19. According to a media outlet, Superintendent Dr. Jason Bendle made that announcement yesterday, after an additional four cases were reported within the program. Shikellamy beat Central Mountain last week to win its first district title since 1979. According to a tweet from PIAA yesterday Central Mountain will replace Shikellamy in the PIAA Class 5A bracket to play at Lower Dauphin Friday night in the quarterfinals.

COVID-19 NUMBERS TO DATE

Wednesday, the state Department of Health confirmed 3,004 new cases, bringing the state’s total to 973,721 since the pandemic began. Locally, Lycoming County 19 new today; Clinton County6 new today; Tioga 3 new today; Sullivan County  6 new today Northumberland County has 16, Union County has five new cases, Snyder County has three, Montour County has three.

CHILD ENDANGERMENT

State police in Milton say Kelli Edwards of Olyphant, PA is facing charges after reports that she was traveling with two children in the vehicle while having suicidal and homicidal thoughts. According to a media outlet, Edwards was traveling eastbound in Interstate 80 around 10:45 a.m. on March 4 when police observed her vehicle, took her into custody and took her for chemical testing, as she was reported to be under the influence. Charges have been filed in District Court.

ASSAULT IN BLOOMSBURG

Matthew David Dressler, 31, of Bloomsburg, and Ariel Lynn Long, 27, of Bloomsburg,  and Amy Fausnaught, 40, of Bloomsburg were  all charged with a third-degree felony for their alleged involved in an assault on 206 Glenn Ave Jan 10. Dressler and Long were released on $10,000 unsecured bail on March 12. Court records do not show any bail listed for Fausnaught.

FELONY ATTEMPT TO EVADE CHARGES IN HIGH SPEED CHASE

Joshua C. Leach, 45, of Smithville, Ohio, faces felony charges as he led police in Union County on a high-speed chase, reaching speeds of up to 100 miles per hour as he fled into Clinton and Centre counties on Interstate 80. District Judge Lori R. Hackenberg set Leach’s bail at $100,000 monetary. He was remanded to Union County Jail. Formal arraignment in front of President Judge Michael T. Hudock is set for April 26.

POSSESSION OF WEAPON IN USP LEWISBURG

The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania has reported that Hugo Reynosa, age 25, an inmate at the (USP Lewisburg) was indicted March 16, 2021, by a federal grand jury for charges of possessing of a weapon in prison. Northcentralpa.com adds Reynosa is facing a maximum of five years of incarceration and a $250,000 fine.

MONTGOMERY SCHOOL DISTRICT MENTAL HEALTH TRAINED

The mental health of children, even before COVID arrived, was an issue and the Montgomery School District has stepped forward with plans to help. Denise Liscum, secondary school counselor at the Montgomery Area School District, noted that more recently the district has started to provide school-based outpatient mental health counseling  and teachers with mental health first aid training and suicide prevention. Through a grant, the district was able to hire a full-time licensed professional counselor so that students have access to therapeutic intervention at an individual and group level.

LITTLE LEAGUE BASEBALL PLANS TO PLAN IN MID-MAY

Little League International says mid-May is when it will make a final decision about this year’s Little League Baseball World Series, as well as regional and World Series tournaments across all divisions, this according to a zoom press conference with president and CEO Steve Keener Tuesday. Keener also reported, if the Little League World Series is in South Williamsport, Major League Baseball advised Little League “they will make every effort to play the MLB Classic Game at Bowman Field as previously scheduled.” The Cleveland Indians and Los Angeles Angels are scheduled to play in this year’s Little League Classic.

BILLTOWN BLUES FESTIVAL SET FOR JUNE 2021

The Billtown Blues Association (BBA) is excited to present the second year of the expanded three-day Billtown Blues Festival, planned for June 11, 12, and 13, 2021 at the Lycoming County Fairgrounds in Hughesville. Seventeen bands are on board to deliver their individual styles and interpretations, covering the diverse palette of blues music.Tickets for the festival are available online through Brown Paper Tickets or by mail order. All festival information including tickets and camping information are available at billtownblues.org. The Billtown Blues Association recommends checking the website often for important updates.

STAY HEALTH, STAY SECURE TSA WILLIAMSPORT REGIONAL AIRPORT

The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has installed new acrylic shields at the security checkpoint at Williamsport Regional Airport as part of the agency’s “Stay Healthy. Stay Secure.” campaign designed to advise travelers of airport checkpoint modifications and procedures designed to contain the spread of COVID-19. These include social distancing, reduced physical contact between travelers and TSA officers during the screening process, use of personal protective equipment by TSA officers, and extra cleaning and disinfecting in the security checkpoint.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

NHL

CANUCKS OVER THE SENATORS 3-2, RANGERS SHUT OUT THE FLYERS 9-0, JETS BEAT THE CANADIENS 4-3, OILERS OVER THE FLAMES 7-3, GOLDEN KNIGHTS BEAT THE SHARKS 5-4 AND THE KINGS DEFEATED THE BLUES 4-1

MARCH MADNESS SCHEDULE

#16 TEXAS SOUTHERN VS #16 MOUNT ST MARY’S  AT 5;10PM

#11 DRAKE VS #11 WICHITA STATE 6:27 PM

#16 APPALACHIAN STATE VS #16 NORFOLK ST  8:40 PM

#11 UCLA VS #11 MICHIGAN STATE 9:57 PM

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The mental health of children, even before COVID arrived, was an issue and the Montgomery School District has stepped forward with plans to help. Denise Liscum, secondary school counselor at the Montgomery Area School District, noted that more recently the district has started to provide school-based outpatient mental health counseling  and teachers with mental health first aid training and suicide prevention. Through a grant, the district was able to hire a full-time licensed professional counselor so that students have access to therapeutic intervention at an individual and group level.

Little League International says mid-May is when it will make a final decision about this year’s Little League Baseball World Series, as well as regional and World Series tournaments across all divisions, this according to a zoom press conference with president and CEO Steve Keener Tuesday. Keener also reported, if the Little League World Series is in South Williamsport, Major League Baseball advised Little League “they will make every effort to play the MLB Classic Game at Bowman Field as previously scheduled.” The Cleveland Indians and Los Angeles Angels are scheduled to play in this year’s Little League Classic.

Joshua C. Leach, 45, of Smithville, Ohio, faces felony charges as he led police in Union County on a high-speed chase, reaching speeds of up to 100 miles per hour as he fled into Clinton and Centre counties on Interstate 80. District Judge Lori R. Hackenberg set Leach’s bail at $100,000 monetary. He was remanded to Union County Jail. Formal arraignment in front of President Judge Michael T. Hudock is set for April 26.

 

 

The Billtown Blues Association (BBA) is excited to present the second year of the expanded three-day Billtown Blues Festival, planned for June 11, 12, and 13, 2021 at the Lycoming County Fairgrounds in Hughesville. Seventeen bands are on board to deliver their individual styles and interpretations, covering the diverse palette of blues music.Tickets for the festival are available online through Brown Paper Tickets or by mail order. All festival information including tickets and camping information are available at billtownblues.org. The Billtown Blues Association recommends checking the website often for important updates.

 

The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania has reported that Hugo Reynosa, age 25, an inmate at the (USP Lewisburg) was indicted March 16, 2021, by a federal grand jury for charges of possessing of a weapon in prison. Northcentralpa.com adds Reynosa is facing a maximum of five years of incarceration and a $250,000 fine.

The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has installed new acrylic shields at the security checkpoint at Williamsport Regional Airport as part of the agency’s “Stay Healthy. Stay Secure.” campaign designed to advise travelers of airport checkpoint modifications and procedures designed to contain the spread of COVID-19. These include social distancing, reduced physical contact between travelers and TSA officers during the screening process, use of personal protective equipment by TSA officers, and extra cleaning and disinfecting in the security checkpoint.

 

 

BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS MARCH 17, 2021

QUARTER AWARD WILLIAMSPORT BUREAU OF POLICE

Each quarter, an award is given to a Police Officer in the Williamsport Bureau of Police who goes above and beyond to protect and serve their community. Here, in the fourth quarter of the calendar year, 2020, the award has been awarded to Agent Brittany Alexander, who has been assigned to the Bureau’s Criminal Investigation Unit. Northcentralpa.com reported Agent Alexander’s performance and dedication to duty shows the highest standards and traditions of the Williamsport Bureau of Police.

ROAD WORK

New traffic signals at the Route 147 and Ridge Rd intersection are to be activated later this season. As for now, motorists should watch for a temporary traffic pattern aiming at reducing Southbound traffic on US 15 to a single lane beginning the week of March 29. Northcentralpa.com reported the lane closure is for the construction of overhead sign structures and will remain in place for two months. Motorists are urged to drive with caution through work zones.

LEVEL UP PROGRAM

Lackawanna College has been recognized for its Level Up program which allows high school students the opportunity to earn an associate degree.  Students enrolled can take advantage of majors, such as, business administration , criminal justice, human services, and professional studies, both classroom and online. To enroll, students should talk with their school guidance counselor or contact the center.

ARMED ROBBERY

Williamsport Bureau of Police are looking for a male suspect involved in an armed robbery Monday evening at Jersey Mike’s Subs at 201 Basin Street. The suspect, who was described as a white male wearing a black mask and armed with a handgun, robbed the store then fled west  prior to police arriving, according to a press release.  The Williamsport Bureau of Police Investigation Unit is conducting a follow up investigation. Anyone with information should contact Agent Jeremy Brown at jbrown@cityof williamsport.org or call (570) 327-7547.

RESISTING ARREST

Robert Reserve, 30, now faces misdemeanor resisting arrest and disorderly conduct charges. According to Pennsylvania State Police at Montoursville, they were dispatched to the residence on Pennsylvania Avenue on March 12.  Northcentralpa.com reports once police and EMS arrived, Reserve became combative. He was transported to UPMC. Charges were filed at the office of District Judge Gary A. Whiteman. Bail was set at $7,500 monetary.

CRIMES AGAINST A CHILD

Patrick Whitehead, 30, of Dalmatian was arraigned last Friday in Magistrate Michael Toomey’s office, after being arrested by Stonington State Police for the alleged rape of a 12-year-old child. Police report the charges are based on an investigation which began Feb 18. An online media outlet reported Whitehead is jailed on $250,000 bail.

PENNSYLVANIA CAPITAL BUILDING OPENS

December 10th, due to a surge in COVID-19, the Pennsylvania Capital building closed its doors to the public.  However, according to an online media outlet, the Department of General Services announced yesterday the Capital will reopen to the general public on Monday, March 22, with enhanced securing protocols, including mask wearing and social distancing.

WILLIAMSPORT BUSINESS CLOSES

Delta Galil, a major manufacturer of apparel at 1501 W. Third St, gave notification to Williamsport Mayor Derek Slaughter that it was shutting down its local business operation . Slaughter confirmed yesterday that he received the company Worker Adjustment and Retraining Notification. A Delta Galil spokesman referred questions to its human resources department on the closing and number of job losses.  According to the Sun Gazette, the closure comes during a time when Slaughter is working on an economic recovery plan.

NHL:

Bruins over the Penguins 2-1, Devils beat the Sabres 3-2, Capitals over the Islanders 3-1, Red Wings over the Hurricanes 4-2, the Wilds shutout the Coyotes 3-0, the Lightning over the Stars 4-3 and the Avalanche beat the Ducks 8-4.

WRESTLING:

Bellefonte and Central Mountain wrestling teams hooked up in a huge battle last night, according to the Record-online.com the Red Raiders going home with a hard-earned 31-28 win in a District 6 AAA team dual semifinal. With the win, Bellefonte moves to the district final at State College Thursday night.

GIRLS BASKETBALL 

Loyalsock dominated the fourth quarter last night at home and defeated Riverside, 60-47 in the state tournament’s first round. Four players scored in double figures, helping Loyalsock reached the state quarterfinals for the first time since the 1980s. According to Sun Gazette, the Lancers (19-3), three days removed from capturing the District 4 title, will play West Catholic Friday at a District 12 site in a rematch of last year’s exciting second round contest.

 

 

BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS MARCH 16, 2021

SEXUAL ASSAULT OF A MINOR

In a criminal complaint filed by the State Police in Montoursville, James Orner, 32, sexually assaulted a minor in Wolf Township, between Sept. 1, 2019, and Jan. 1, 2021. According to Northcentralpa.com the alleged sexual assaults, numbering near 50, occurred at multiple locations throughout Lycoming County. Orner was charged with multiple felonies.

RESTRICTIONS LIFTING LOCALLY

Governor Tom Wolf announced yesterday the following changes go into effect effective April 4: Restaurants may resume bar service; alcohol service will be allowed without purchasing food and the alcohol curfew will be lifted. Indoor dining capacity to 75% for those restaurants currently self-certified. Restaurants not self-certified capacity to 50%. According to the Daily Item, gyms and entertainment facilities, such as theatres or malls can allow to 75% capacity.

ASSAULT WITH A KNIFE

An arrest warrant for Jacob Beaver, 22, Milton was issued yesterday by Sunbury District Judge Mike Toomey as Milton police charged Beaver with multiple felonies when he allegedly attempted to stab a female in the head and neck, after stabbing a male, on Stanton Avenue at 8:10 pm. According to the Daily Item, police report Beaver taunted them and even charged them with the knife before the being tazed and taken into custody. Both the woman and man were treated for injuries, according to police. Beaver will appear before Milton District Judge Michael Diehl for an arraignment at a later date.

COVID-19 CASE NUMBERS UPDATE

Statewide COVID-19 cases rise to 967,548 as reported by the State Department of Health: Clinton County 3 new, Centre County 17 new, Lycoming County 10 new, Snyder County 8 new, Northumberland County 25 new and Montour County has 9 new cases.

SHIKELLAMY BOYS BASKETBALL COVID EXPOSURE

A player on the Shikellamy boys basketball team reported to have been exposed to COVID-19, thus placing the team at risk for not being able to play its state playoff game Friday night in the PIAA Class 5A Quarterfinals against Lower Dauphin … According to a media outlet, Superintendent Dr. Jason Bendle said yesterday if parents can receive a doctor’s release prior to Friday, there is still potential remains to participate in the game. With a hopes high, the school district cautions they are taking the issue serious and on a ‘day by day’ consideration basis.

UNREASONABLE NOISE/DISORDERLY CONDUCT

Cory R. Hartman, 33, Mifflinburg, was cited recently for disorderly conduct after he refused to turn his music down while sitting in his car outside Kelly Township businesses during the morning hours of Feb. 26, according to Trooper Matthew Lada of the Pennsylvania State Police in Milton.  Hartman was taken into custody. Northcentralpa.com report a misdemeanor charge of disorderly conduct – unreasonable noise was filed at the office of District Judge Jeffrey A Rowe in Union County.

 

NHL

Flyers over the Rangers 5-4, Penguins defeat the Bruins 4-1, Predators over the Lightning 4-1, Panthers beat the Blackhawks 6-3, Canucks over the Senators 3-2, Capitals shut out the Sabres 6-0, Canadiens over the Jets 4-2, Flames beat the Oilers 4-3, Golden Knights over the Sharks 2-1

BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS MARCH 12, 2021

LOGANTON MAN MAKES BAIL AFTER SEXUAL ASSAULT CHARGE
A Loganton man charged with sexual assault has been released on bail.  According to the Lock Haven Express, 31 year old Gideon L. Miller, was charged with 42 felonies stemming from an alleged sexual assault of a minor that occurred in his Greene Township home, and had been in the Clinton County Jail since Feb. 27 in lieu of $50,000 monetary bail set by Magisterial District Judge Frank P. Mills. State police at Lamar arrested Miller on Feb. 27 for the alleged criminal incidents that happened around May 1st, 2019.  Gideon Miller’s next scheduled court date is a preliminary hearing before Mills on March 16.

US MARSHALS MAKE A DRUG ARREST
In a raid on a Lycoming Creek Road residence, members of the US Marshals Fugitive Task Force and Old Lycoming Township Police arrested three adults after they were found to be running a drug operation.  According to the Sun Gazette, 20 year old Jordan Artley, of Williamsport, 20 year old Demetria Tennison, of Palmyra, and 21 year old Jacob Bauer, of  Zuni Lane were charged multiple felonies after police found drugs and at least one firearm. Artley faced previous  fugitive charges as well, but all three were arraigned and later committed to the Lycoming County Prison in lieu of $250,000 bail each.

ONLINE FUNDRAISER SUCCESSFUL FOR AREA NON-PROFITS
Raise the Region 2021 was a huge success this year after generous support by over 7300 donors in the area helped 273 non-profit organizations.  According to the raise the region dot org website, in addition to increasing awareness for many important causes in north central Pennsylvania, First Community Partnership and Backyard Broadcasting helped raise 1,949,769 dollars this year.  Thank you to all those donors who helped make a difference in our region.

MAN WHO ALLGEDLY CAUSED SCHOOL LOCKDOWN IN CUSTODY
A man is in custody after making a threatening phone call that caused the Shikellamy School District to be on restrictive movement for most of the day yesterday.  According to the Daily Item, Northumberland Borough Police arrested Jeremy Good, of South Carbon Street, Shamokin who faces felony terroristic threat charges for calling the school and making the threats.  According to Superintendent Dr. Jason Bendle, a high school receptionist reported the call immediately after it came into the school.  Students were not permitted to go outside for recess, and police were on the scene when they dismissed yesterday as a precaution.  Today will be a normal day at the school.

DRUG FORFEITURE USED FOR POLICE DEPARTMENT TOOLS
$14,000 to $20,000 of  drug-related forfeiture money will be used for equipment for the South Williamsport Police.  According to the South Williamsport council administration, the latest tools purchased include a camera system used to scan vehicle license plate numbers to check registration status, to see if a vehicle has been stolen or up for repossession. The release of the funds is through the Lycoming County District Attorney Ryan Gardner’s office.

LOCAL COVID UPDATE
Lycoming County has 30 new coronavirus cases reported as of midnight yesterday, Northumberland has 18 new today Clinton County has 11, Tioga County 4.  According to the Pennsylvania Department of Health  there were 2,652 additional positive cases of COVID-19 , and 51 new deaths.  COVID-19 cases are starting to trend up in the Commonwealth, with the current total reaching approaching a million cases in Pennsylvania.

MEW GEISINGER FACILITY IN CLINTON COUNTY TO OPEN THIS MONTH
Clinton’s County is on track to open their newest medical facility. According to Geisinger Medical Clinic Lock Haven is set to open March 22, making it easier to get care closer to home. The two-story facility will house primary and specialty care facility is located at 68 Spring St. in Lock Haven, and will be  a walk-in care clinic and a pharmacy. The medical services at the Geisinger Lock Haven and Geisinger Tiadaghton Health Center facilities will also relocate to this new location. The location is equipped with telemedicine technology to make it easier for patients to connect with other medical specialists without needing to travel to a larger medical facility.

AGENCIES HOLD EVENT TO KICK OFF ANTI-DRINKING AND DRIVING CAMPAIGN
PennDOT, the Highway Safety Network, the Lycoming County DUI Advisory Council, and the Lycoming County DUI Task Force along with local law enforcement will hold a press event this morning at B & C Auto Wreckers in Montgomery to highlight highway safety and urge sober driving during a national Saint Patrick’s Day “Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over” campaign. A crashed car and banner will be on display B & C Auto Wreckers, 4867 Route 15 Highway, Montgomery.  The program will be from 11am til 11:30.

SPORTS
HS Varsity Boys Basketball
* St. John Neumann, impressive all-around, crushed North Penn-Liberty in the Magicdome, 82-53 and captured its second straight District 4 Boys Class A championship and their 7th title in 9 years.  Williamsport native Alize Johnson was at the game to watch his younger brothers play.
* Shikellamy boys basketball made history last night by winning its first district title since 1979.  The Braves defeated Central Mountain 59-42 in the District 4 and 6, Class 5A championship game at Bald Eagle Area High School. Shikellamy advances to the state 5A Tournament.
NBA
The76ers beat the Bulls 127 to 105, Hornets beat the Pistons 105 to 102, Nets beat the Celtics 121 to 109, Hawks beat the Raptors 121 to 120, Heat over Magic 111 to 103, Bucks over the Knicks 134 to 101, Timberwolves beat the Pelicans 135 to 105, Thunder beat Mavericks 116 to 108, Clippers beat the Warriors 130 to 104, Suns over the Trailblazers 127 to 121, Kings beat the Rockets 125 to 105
NBA
Philly goes to Washington at 8 PM
NHL
Penguins beat the Sabres 5 to 2, capitals over the Flyers 53, Bruins beat the Rangers for nothing, islanders over the devils 53, hurricanes beat the predators 51, Panthers beat the blue jackets 54, maple leafs beat the Jets 43, Red Wings be lightning 64, Blackhawks beat the stars for two, flames over the Canadiens 21

BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS MARCH 11, 2021

PRESIDENT TO VISIT PENNSYLVANIA
President Biden will visit Pennsylvania next week beginning a state-by-state effort to tout the benefits of the massive stimulus package passed yesterday and build momentum for his next legislative effort which could be a  infrastructure program meant to provide repairs, upgrades, and jobs.  President Biden signed the $1.9 trillion coronavirus relief package that he says can pull the country through the end of the pandemic and lift up low- and middle-income Americans. Republicans have blasted the bill as an expensive partisan giveaway larded with a grab bag of liberal policy ideas and billions they say are unrelated to the pandemic. President Joe Biden will visit Delaware County on Tuesday – his first visit to Pennsylvania as president.

LOCAL UNIVERSITY TO GO IN-PERSON THIS FALL
Lock Haven University will return to in person instruction starting this fall semester, however the COVID climate may cause changes.  According to the university, they have slowly reopened some of their  facilities to allow for more in-person classes, events and gatherings, while adhering to local and state COVID safety guidelines.  The fall 2021 semester will begin on Monday, August. 23, with  final exams to be held starting December 6th.  Student-athletes will compete in intercollegiate athletic events in the fall.

HOME IMPROVEMENT FUNDS AVAILABLE TO JERSEY SHORE RESIDENTS
$65,000 in home improvements from the HOME Existing Owner-Occupied Housing Program is available to Jersey Shore residents.  According to SEDA-COG borough residents can apply for funds to repair the home structure, roof, plumbing, and other systems including energy-related improvements. There is no cost to homeowners who maintain home residency over a five-year period from the date of contract signing.  For more information, visit www.seda-cog.org.

RAISE THE REGION TODAY
The 30 hour online fundraiser in coordination with First Community Foundation Partnership of Pennsylvania and Backyard Broadcasting, Raise the region dot org, is underway and  2,317 donors have already raised just over a 500 thousand dollars helping 260 non profits around Columbia, Lycoming, Montour, Northumberland, Snyder or Union counties.  Alexander family dealerships are applying 150 thousand dollars in stretch funds as  incentives for donors to keep up the much needed help for area groups.  You can donate and watch the fundraising real time through tonight at midnight at raise the region dot org.

MEAT PLANT RESUMES OPERATIONS
A meat processing plant in Loganton has resumed operations after a DEA cease and desist letter was sent to halt the slaughterhouse’s local waste disposal.  According to the Record Online, a spokesman at Nicholas meat LLC confirmed that meat processing resumed on March 3rd after the company was recently to stop the application of  food processing residuals to snow-covered fields.  During the closure since February 23rd the employees there were paid for training.  The DEP has issued permits to Nichols to construct waste digester, which the state agency said is hoped to provide a long-term, sustainable solution to the waste products currently being applied to the ground.

LOCAL COVID UPDATE
Lycoming County has 26 new cases of the coronavirus as of yesterday at midnight.  Northumberland  County  has 18, Clinton County has 9.  According to the Pennsylvania Department of Health there were 2,594 and  43 new deaths attributed to COVID-19.  Lycoming County has 17 COVID-19 patients in the hospital with the coronavirus and 2 on ventilators.

PENN DOT  WORK ON I-180
The guiderail installation continues to cause slow downs along I-80 east and west this week as Penn DOT contracts with Green Acres Contracting Co., Inc to install guide rail upgrades through March 19th  in Fairfield Township, Montoursville Borough, Loyalsock Township and the City of Williamsport, Lycoming County.  Motorists should watch for crews along the right lanes during daylight hours.

PA FLAGS AT HALF-STAFF FOR COAL TOWNSHIP MAN
Commonwealth flags are to be flown at half-staff  after Governor Tom Wolf announced  it to honor of a Coal Township firefighter who died Monday. According to the Shamokin News-Item, Deputy fire Chief Kevin M. “Bubba” Malukas passed away Monday at home.  He graduated from Shamokin Area High School in 1980 and was one of the areas first EMT’s and an original crew member of Medic 9 in Shamokin.  Along with other service in Mount Carmel and Fairview County, Malukas served as the Coal Township fire chief since 1996.  A Mass will be Saturday at Mother Cabrini Church, on  N. Shamokin St, with interment to follow in All Saints Cemetery.

SPORTS
HS Boys Basketball District 4 Class A Championship
North Penn Liberty vs Saint John Neumann in Williamsport @8pm
District 6 class 6A Championship
Central Mountain vs Shikellamy at Bald Eagle Area @7

NBA
Grizzlies beat the Wizards 127 to 112, Mavericks over the Spurs 115 to 104
NBA tonight
76ers head to Chicago for an 8 PM tip off and the Celtics are in Brooklyn Nets at 7:30

The NHL announced a seven year deal yesterday bringing hockey back to ESPN for the first time since 2004 with 25 regular season games on ESPN or ABC an early round playoff series in a conference final each year also included will be for Stanley Cup final series on ABC and other online streaming hockey games for subscription customers

NHL
Wild be Golden Knights 4-3, Oilers over the Senator 7-1, Avalanche beat Coyotes 2-1, Kings beat the Ducks 5-1, Canadians beat the Canucks 5-1
NHL tonight
The Capitals come to Philly to meet the Flyers, Rangers face the Bruins in Boston and the Devils are with the Islanders in Brooklyn  – All games tip off @7pm

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