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

BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS MARCH 10, 2021

SUSPECTED SUICIDAL FLORIDA MAN STOPPED BY TROOPERS
A man from Florida who family members say was suicidal and possibly homicidal, was taken into custody after Selinsgrove state police were alerted that he was traveling through the state on routes 11/15 headed to New York state.  According to media outlets 23 year-old Edwin Dean of Naples, Florida was stopped in Snyder County, by Selinsgrove troopers who sent him to Geisinger for a mental health evaluation.  A search warrant was obtained for Dean’s car  and when drugs and paraphernalia were found, he allegedly attempted to flee the state.  Dean will now be charged with felony drug charges and is in the Snyder County Jail in lieu of bail.

SCIU TEACHERS TO RECEIVE VACCINATIONS
Teachers affiliated with the Central Susquehanna Intermediate unit will start to get their COVID-19 vaccines this Friday. According to media outlets there is a one day delay of the administration of the vaccine originally planned  to start tomorrow.  The Johnson and Johnson COVID-19 vaccine clinic will now run Friday from 2-9 p.m., Saturday and Sunday from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., and Monday 2-9 p.m.

SOME STATE PARKS AVAILABLE FOR TROUT FISHING OPENING DAY
The Department of Conservation and Natural Resources announced campsites will be available at an additional 16 state parks to accommodate overnight stays on April 2 for the new statewide trout opener the 3rd.   A total of 34 parks throughout the state will provide camping at this time including Little Pine, Lycoming County, R.B. Winter*, Union County and Worlds End* in Sullivan County.  CNR’s Bureau of State Parks is offering a one-time waiver of the transfer or cancellation fees so customers can move reservations to the new statewide trout opening weekend. This year the  Statewide Mentored Youth Trout Day will occur Saturday, March 27.

FLAMING FOLIAGE FESTIVAL IS ON FOR 2021
The Renovo Flaming Foliage Festival is still on for October 2021, but the plan will give the community only one day of festivities on Saturday October 9th with an option to reassess plans by the first week of July.  There will be fundraising in the next few months for the event including a soup and pot pie sale this Saturday at 11:30 at the Flaming Foliage Information Center in Renovo.

PUBLIC SAFETY BUILDING PLANNED FOR SOUTHSIDE
A public safety building has been authorized to be built in South Williamsport after members of the borough said they are seeking up to 5 million dollars in state and federal grants. According to the Sun Gazette, the borough has been authorized to apply for $2.6 million in a state Redevelopment Assistance Capital Program grant from the state Office of Budget and has funds in perpetuity that were set aside a year ago.  Use of land for the facility is awaiting the grant funding and will provide modern space for police and borough administration according to borough officials

LOCAL COVID UPDATE
Lycoming County has 33 new cases of the coronavirus today, Northumberland has  22, Clinton County has 8, Tioga County  has 4.According to the Pennsylvania Department of Health as of midnight yesterday, there were 2,975 additional positive cases of COVID-19 and 40 new deaths. Lycoming County has 19 COVID-19 patients hospitalized, 7 in the ICU and 2 on ventilators

LEAD TESTING AVAILABLE FOR SCHOOLS
There is a Voluntary Lead in Child Care and School Drinking Water Testing Program available in Pennsylvania.  According to the Wolf Administration this is another component of the lead free initative he started in 2019.   All schools and child care programs in Pennsylvania are eligible to benefit from a $1.74 million  federal grant for testing and related training.  PENNVEST launched the program  and information about registering for testing is available at leadfree.pa.gov.

RAISE THE REGION STARTS TODAY
Raise the Region stars this afternoon with a live broadcast  on Backyard broadcasting stations kicking off a 30 hour fundraising campaign with the First Community Partnership of Pennsylvania  and Blaise Alexander Family Dealerships Over 270 local non-profit organizations are involved in the online fundraiser meant to increase individual funding across the Susquehanna Valley.  All donations through the online portal at raise the region dot org are tax deductible.

SPORTS
HS Varsity District 2-4 Class 6A Sub Regional

Williamsport beat Wilkes-Barre 58-43
District 4 Class AAAA Semi Finals
Mifflinburg beat Montoursville 70 to 64, Danville be Athens 8639,

Girls Varsity Basketball District 4 Class AAA
Loyalsock over Towanda 65-48, Bloomsburg over Warrior Run 62-44

NBA Tonight

Wizards and Grizzlies play in Memphis @8 , Spurs and Mavericks are in Dallas @8:30
NHL
Penguins beat the Rangers 4-2, Flyers beat the Sabres 5-4, Islanders beat the Bruins 2-1, Capitals over the Devils 5-4, Hurricanes beat the Predators 3-2, Panthers over the Blue Jackets 4-2, Jets over Maple Leafs 4-3, Lightning over Red Wings 4-3, Stars beat the Blackhawks 6-1.

BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS MARCH 9, 2021

FORMER OFFICER RELEASED ON BAIL
A former City police officer who recently had charges added to his case over misusing police department computer systems to run searches that were unauthorized, was released on 10 thousand dollars bail.  According to the Sun Gazette, Eric Derr faces criminal use of a computer charges as well as unsworn falsification, tampering with records and obstruction of administering the law.  An in-person preliminary hearing is scheduled for March 18th. Derr will face Union County District Judge Jeffrey Rowe.

TRAIN ACCIDENT LAWSUIT FILED IN NORTHUMBERLAND COUNTY
A negligence lawsuit has been filed by a former railroad employee who was seriously injured when he was struck by a train at the yards in Newberry.  According to the Sun Gazette, 24 year old Wayne Brewer of Lock Haven was in a crew of employees who were switching freight cars in February 2020 when conditions that were allegedly not in compliance with maintenance standards caused Brewer to slip and fall. The suit against Lycoming Valley Railroad of Williamsport and North Shore Railroad also cites that the engineer did not follow standard safety practices of communication during the incident and Brewer was dragged by the train, ultimately losing his right arm and leg from amputation.  The case has been filed in Northumberland in U.S. Middle District Court.

SEVEN WI-FI ZONES FOR THOSE WITHOUT INTERNET
Over the next few months, Comcast has announced it will equip locations in Lycoming and Clinton counties with wifi-connected “Lift Zones” so that distance learning and educational opportunities will be more readily available in the city and region for those families without internet. YMCAs in East Lycoming, Lock Haven, Muncy, and Jersey Shore will be some of these locations, along with the Vineyard Community Center  in Muncy and the Williamsport and Loyalsock Child Care Centers.  The initiative will provide free connectivity for the community centers for the next three years.

CASINO PLANNED FOR CENTRE COUNTY
Hundreds of jobs could be coming to Centre County with College Township officials announcing the use of the former Macy’s Department store at the Nittany Mall for a proposed casino.  According to the Sun Gazette, the location was identified by a local impact report as a location for a category 4 casino, a requirement for the Pennsylvania Gaming Board.  In addition, Bally’s Corporation reported they signed an agreement with a local investor to develop the 120 million dollar mini-casino property.  Local leaders say the project could breathe new life into the Nittany Mall that has struggled in recent years, losing many anchor stores like JcPenney, Sears and BonTon.

MAN DIES IN GARAGE FIRE
A fire in Northumberland County took the life of a Coal Township man Monday morning.  According to the county coroner, 41 year old Shawn Guschel died from carbon monoxide poisoning  inside the garage that caught fire and was reported to be in the 1600 block of West Lynn Street.  The garage sustained heavy damage at the rear of the structure and police were called to the scene about 7:15 am yesterday. Police have not released any other details about the fire or the fatality.

LOCAL COVID UPDATE
Lycoming County still reporting lower COVID-19 numbers with 17 new cases, Northumberland has 5, Union County has 13 and Snyder has 9.  According to the PA Department of Health, as of midnight yesterday there were 1,658 additional positive cases and 32 new deaths .  The Department of Health also reported that statewide, there are now over 1,500 people in the hospital with COVID and only 170 are on ventilators.

BUSINESSES ENCOURAGED TO APPLY FOR COVID RELIEF
Businesses in Lycoming County are being urged to apply for the newly available  COVID relief grant for eligible hospitality industry businesses, as funds are expected to be quickly depleted .  According to a press release by SEDA-COG, the COVID-19 Hospitality Industry Recovery Program (CHIRP) grant applications are available starting March 15th.  Lycoming county has contracted with SEDA- COG to manage their $1.3 million grant program on their behalf.  Businesses can apply at csgiving dot org through June 15, 2021 or until the funds are exhausted.  Grants can range from $5,000 to $50,000 for pandemic relief.

FUNDRAISER POISED TO RAISE THE REGION
Raise the Region – a 30 hour fundraising campaign with the First Community Partnership of Pennsylvania – begins tomorrow evening and over 270 local non-profit organizations are registered and ready to go.  The purpose of the online fundraiser is to increase individual funding to nonprofits through a concentrated, stretching gift campaign.  Blaise Alexander family dealerships will provide 150 thousand dollars in stretch funds for incentives to inspire giving.  All donations through the online portal at raise the region dot org are tax deductible.

SPORTS
District 4 Triple A Semifinals
Loyalsock defeated Mount Carmel 72-60, Central Columbia over Troy 60-53

District 4 and 6….5A Semifinals 

Central Mountain beat Holidaysburg 68-60, Shikellamy defeated Bellefonte 39- 37

Girls Varsity Basketball
Wilkes-Barre beat Williamsport 42-37, Central Columbia over Lewisburg 47-36 and Shamokin beat Athens 32-25

HS Varsity Basketball Today
Boys:  District 2-4 Class 6A Sub Regional
Wilkes-Barre comes to Williamsport @7
D4 Class AAAA Semi Finals
Montoursville at Mifflinburg at 7 PM
Girls: District 4 Class AAA
Warrior run at Bloomsburg, and Loyalsock at Towanda  both games at 7 PM

NBA No scores
NBA Tonight

Wizards and Grizzlies play in Memphis @8, and the Spurs and Mavericks are in Dallas @8:30
NHL
Wild beat Golden Knights 2-nothing, Oilers over the Senators 3-2, Coyotes beat Avalanche 3-2, Sharks beat Blues 3-2, Canucks over the Canadiens 2-1, Ducks beat the Kings 6-5
NHL Tonight
Rangers and Penguins tonight in Pittsburgh @6, Flyers and Sabres play in Philly , and the Islanders play the Bruins in Brooklyn – both those games at 7 pm

BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS MARCH 8, 2021

MUNCY WOMAN FILES FALSE POLICE REPORT FOR ALLEGED ABDUCTION
A Muncy woman is charged with several misdemeanors after she brandished a gun following her confronting a man she thought to be inappropriately speaking with a juvenile in a Pennsdale convenience store parking lot.  According to North Central PA dot com, State police in Montoursville said 28 year old Alyssa Mae Fuller of Muncy reportedly called in an attempted child abduction.  But police say it was a false report and the man allegedly accused, 24 year old Michael Kula of Pennsdale, was allegedly assaulted by an unidentified man while in the parking area.  Kula later did tell police that he was speaking with a juvenile through social media.  Fuller was charged with six second-degree misdemeanors and is scheduled to appear before Judge Jon Edward Kemp on April 9.

BIDEN HARRIS BARN BURNED IN MIFFLIN COUNTY
A barn in Reedsville that served as a backdrop for the 2020 Biden presidential campaign has burned down and Mifflin County Regional Police have not said they are investigating any cases of arson at this time.  According to WGAL-tv, the barn that was painted in support of Biden and Harris, belonged to Robin and Lawrence Herst, but at 1 a.m. on Saturday morning multiple fire companies were called to the Tea Creek Road property to fight the blaze that destroyed the structure.  A GoFundMe page has been set up for the barn’s restoration, with a $10,000 goal.

GEISINGER RESUMING MORE SERVICES
Some hospital services are getting back to normal.  According to a press release, Geisinger Medical Center says they have been able to resume near normal levels of service using operating rooms and are reaching out again to patients for scheduling of non-emergency surgeries.  As far as appointments for COVID-19 vaccines, Geisinger says scheduling for new first dose appointments remain suspended as they work to reschedule 40,000 disrupted appointments due to weather and supply problems last month.

FINES FOR DUBOISTOWN RESIDENTS WHO DON’T CLEAR CARS FROM ROAD
At the Duboistown Borough Council meeting last Thursday, officials resolved that they will enforce cases of negligence when residents fail to move their vehicles from the street near their property and clearing sidewalks during snowstorms.  According to the Sun Gazette, moving forward this year, a resident will get one warning and then will charge a fifty dollar penalty.  During recent winter weather cars were not moved in a timely manner and it became an issue to replow roads that had already been done.   In other Duboistown business, the borough announced its yearly community yard sale will happen on May 1st.

SHOTS FIRED IN WILLIAMSPORT SATURDAY
Three separate incidents in Williamsport resulted in reports of shots fired Saturday night. According to Williamsport bureau of Police, a call came in about 8pm for gunfire around the 1100 block of Almond St.  Later around 10pm there was another report of gunshots at the 1200 block of Vine Avenue and then 30 minutes later another report of shots fired came from that same area of Vine Ave.  Police responded to these incidents but no details have been released on whether an active investigation is underway.

13 YEAR-OLD THREATENS ANOTHER WITH A KNIFE
A juvenile threatened another person in Watsontown on Saturday afternoon with a knife. According to media outlets police say a 13-year-old male was charged after he allegedly made terroristic threats and recklessly endangered another person according to police. The unidentified juvenile was turned over to the Northumberland County juvenile probation department

PROGRAM TO ASSIST WITH CRIME INVESTIGATIONS
Williamsport city Council has approved a new tool for Williamsport police.   According to media outlets, in an effort to assist the department with evidence collection for crimes, accidents, and missing persons cases, Crimewatch was approved to be used as a digital site and interactive tool for law-enforcement so they can connect with residential or commercial surveillance cameras and  register them with the department. The program will also able be linked to mobile devices for ease of officer use and gathering additional information during investigations.

LOCAL MAN TAPPED FOR AMERICAN IDOL
23-year-old Brennan “Beane” Hepler a Montoursville native impressed the judges last night on American Idol and has  had his ticket punched to got to Hollywood and continue on through the program this season.  According to ABC, Hepler received a yes vote from judges Katy Perry and Lionel Richie, but a no from judge Luke Bryan .  Hepler was a member of Williamsport’s Uptown Music Collective and graduated from Berkley College of Music in 2019.

SPORTS

Boys HS Varsity Basketball from Saturday
North Penn Liberty over Lourdes 44-36, Wyalusing beat Northeast Bradford 60-54 Girls HS Varsity Basketball
Lourdes beat Sullivan County to 43-27, Southern Columbia beat Northeast Bradford 77-62

Boys HS Wrestling
P I-AA class AAA West Super Regional Williamsport’s Riley Bauer and Cael Nasdeao placed third and fourth respectively, and  in the AAA Central Mountain’s Luke Simcox placed second.  In the PIAA AA East SuperRegional Muncy’s Scott Johnson had a top four finish.  All four are now qualified for next week’s State Tournament in Hershey

NASCAR
Kyle Larson won Sunday driving for Hendrick Motorsports  at the Las Vegas Motor Speedway in his first NASCAR Cup race since his suspension
Brad Keselowski was third followed by Kyle Busch, Denny Hamlin and Ryan Blaney in fifth

NBA All Star Game

Team LeBron beat team Durant 170 to 150

NHL

Capitals beat the Flyers 3-1, Penguins over the Rangers 5-1, Islanders beat the Sabre 5-2, Lightning beat the Blackhawks 6-3, Hurricanes over the Panthers 4-2, Devils beat the Bruins 1-nothing, Predators over the Stars 4-3, Senators over the Flames 4-3

BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS MARCH 4, 2021

FORMER CITY OFFICER GETS NEW CHARGES
Charges that had been withdrawn due to lack of evidence have been filed again in the case of former Williamsport police officer Eric Derr by the Pennsylvania Attorney General.  According to the Sun Gazette, new evidence related to Derr’s alleged unlawful use of a computer led to the refiling of 28 charges that had been dropped.  Evidence suggests Derr abused his position when he ran background checks on co-workers, suspects for personal reasons and women with whom he had relationships during this time.  Derr also allegedly absolved suspects who were involved in crimes by taking administrative steps to assure they didn’t get caught.  Derr will be in court March 8th to face an arraignment for the new charges.

GEISINGER LIKELY TO STAY INVESTED IN EVANGELICAL
Three parties including Geisinger, Evangelical Community Hospital and the Department of Justice  have agreed to continue a community investment between the two hospitals.  According to a press release by Geisinger Health a judgement brought about by the Department of Justice in 2020 about the collaboration has been resolved and will now have a public comment period ahead of a final court date so that Geisinger can maintain an investment in Evangelical Community hospital which has previously enhanced the health and wellness of the Lewisburg community and surrounding areas.

ACCIDENT IN LOYALSOCK TOWNSHIP HOSPITALIZES ONE
There was a one car accident Tuesday morning in Loyalsock Township after the driver lost control on the ice.  According to the Sun Gazette, an unknown victim suffered injuries after she went down an embankment on Pleasant Hills Road near Northway Road extension about 8:20 am.  Emergency personnel responded and the woman was transported to UPMC Williamsport.  No word on her condition this am.

SPRING SPORTS RULES ARE OUT
There are new guidelines for spring sports after the PIAA board met yesterday to approve the Return to Competition Guidelines for baseball, softball, track and all other spring sports, which could now allow preseason practices to start statewide Monday.  According to PIAA executive director Bob Lombardi, teams can start competition March 26th but the postseason plans remain undecided.  Masks must still be worn by coaches, athletes, and spectators if they cannot maintain sustained physical distance from other people.

TEACHERS BUMPED UP IN THE VACCINATION SCHEDULE
Governor Tom Wolf announced yesterday a news conference that new shipments of the one-dose Johnson & Johnson vaccine will be delivered first to teachers and school staff to ensure students can safely get back into the classroom.  State officials expect a first shipment of 94,000 doses of the newly approved vaccine to arrive this week.  The state is still in Phase 1A of its vaccine plan for health care workers, people 65 and over and younger people with high-risk medical conditions — a population estimated at around 4 million. Teachers currently are grouped in Phase 1B, along with others considered to be essential workers.  According to the state department of health, each intermediate unit region will have at least one vaccination location, with most starting between next Wednesday, March 10, and March 13

WOMAN SCAMMED OVER A CAR
A Selinsgrove woman was scammed out of eight thousand dollars when she tried to buy a car through Facebook Marketplace.  According to state police between Janaury 31st and February 8th the victim attempted to purchase the vehicle  using 1600 dollars in Ebay gift cards and 6400 dollars in Google Play cards.  After sending the cards the victim didn’t get the car.  Police are investigating the incident.  Scams through social media similar to this are common and state police warn consumers to use caution when purchasing items online.

LOCAL COVID UPDATE
Lycoming county reports 25 new cases of the coronavirus as of yesterday at midnight, Northumberland County has 30, Union County has 12.  Statewide, 2,577 new cases have been confirmed with 69 new deaths.  According to the Department of Health another decrease in statewide hospitalizations was reported Tuesday with just over 1,600 people hospitalized with COVID and 169 are on ventilators.

BLOOMSBURG RULES FOR IN-PERSON SCHOOL IN THE FALL
Bloomsburg University has announced it will return to full-time, in-person instruction next fall. According to information released by the school, they make plans based on anticipated vaccine rates, and the easing of COVID restrictions within the commonwealth. On-campus housing facilities will have  no more than two students assigned to a traditional room. Campus dining will be open in-person  and student-athletes can compete with health guidelines driving fan attendenc rules.Bloomsburg’s fall  semester begins Monday, August 23rd.

SPORTS
District 4 Class AA Boys Varsity Basketball
Sayre beat Muncy 61-55, East Juniata beat Canton 52-51
East Juniata will host Sayre Saturday in the class AA Semi-finals
D4 Class A Girls Basketball
North Penn liberty beat Meadowbrook Christian 34-30, Lourdes beat Montgomery 46-20
Day 1 – District 4 Boys Swimming
Central Columbia placed first – Followed by Danville, Bloomsburg and Athens with  Lewisburg in fifth.

District 4 Class AAA Boys Basketball Playoffs today
Warrior Run at Loyalsock, and South Williamsport at Troy @7pm, Bloomsburg at Central Columbia  @8
D4 Class AAAA Girls Basketball Playoffs today
Montoursville is at Central Columbia @5:30, Milton goes to Athens @7, and Danville plays Shamokin @7

NBA
the 76ers beat Jazz 131 to 123, Pacers over the Cavaliers 114 to 111, the Pistons over the Raptors 129 to 105, the Nets beat the Rockets 132 to 114, Hawk beat Magic 115 to 112, Hornets beat the Timberwolves 135 to 102, Bulls beat the Pelicans 128 to 124, Mavericks over Thunder 87 to 78, Trailblazers beat the Warriors 108 – 106, Kings over the Lakers 123 to 120
NBA Tonight
Detroit comes to New York to play the Knicks at 7:30pm

NHL
Capitals beat the Bruins 2 to 1, Maple Leafs over the Oilers 6 to 1, Blues beat the Ducks 3-2, Golden Knights over Wild 5-1, Coyotes beat the Kings 3-2, Avalanche over the Sharks 4-nothing.
NHL Tonight
Flyers head to Pittsburgh @ 7 PM and the Islanders play Buffalo @7, Rangers in New Jersey to play the Devils @7

BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS MARCH 3, 2021

RENOVO LOCKED DOWN WITH ACTIVE SHOOTER INCIDENT
An active shooter who was taken into custody yesterday morning in Renovo has been taken into custody and is being treated at Lock Haven Hospital.  According to the Record Online, Gene Eaton of Sullivan Acres in Renovo is the alleged suspect and other media outlets report he shot a gun while walking through the borough at least ten times according to witnesses.  An emergency alert for residents to shelter in place came across broadcasting outlets about 8:25 yesterday morning, but police had the man in custody and the shelter in place order was lifted around 8:45 am.  Eaton is not a Renovo native but has lived in the borough for a few years.

SCHOOL RESOURCE OFFICER WILL TRANSITION TO POLICE DEPARTMENT
The school resource officer at South Williamsport Area School will transition to a new position there due to a new arrangement approved by the school board to have a school police officer at the school.  According to the Sun Gazette, Officer Michael Samar has served as the SRO at South Williamsport for three years and transitions under the new program July 1st.  Dr. Mark Stamm, district superintendent said an agreement with the borough for a school police officer expands services and jurisdiction over students to include all student and school activities regardless of location.

ENERGY COMPANY PROMISES GREENER ACTIONS
The energy company that disposes of coal ash near Lake Chillisquaque and the surrounding land, called the Montour Preserve, says they will phase out coal-fired energy, halt the use of the disposal basin near the preserve and hand over the Montour Preserve to a group to be chosen by the Middle Susquehanna Riverkeeper Association.  According to the Sun Gazette, he move is in response to Talen Energy’s responsibility of the groundwater pollution from an ash dump next to Talen’s coal-fired power plant, not quite 2 miles south of the lake. Talen has plans to drain the coal disposal basin by October of 2028 and to donate funds for future owners of the Montour preserve for clean water programs.

MONTOURSVILLE BOROUGH COUNCIL DETAILS
Montoursville borough has approved a design for disc golf in Indian park.  According to the Sun Gazette, private fundraising is taking place to add the 18 hole course after interested parties asked the borough to consider it at the council meeting in January.  And in other business, council approved opening of the Montoursville brush pile for residents April 5th to be open 8am to 4pm Monday through Friday.

MISSING TEEN’S BODY  FOUND IN SUSQUEHANNA RIVER
Police have identified the body found in the Susquehanna River on Saturday as Maverick Wilton, the 16 year old who has been missing from Williamsport since December.  According to the Northumberland County Coroner, dental x-rays were used in the identification process and the cause and manner of death is pending further testing following an autopsy. According to North CVetnral PA dot com, Maverick’s family have confirmed to State police that the body found is their son.  A G fund me account has been established to help the family.

GOP VOTES TO NOT CENSURE FELLOW REPUBLICAN
The Pennsylvania GOP stopped short of issuing a censure of Senator Pat Toomey Monday night during a virtual meeting that was continued from last week due to technical issues.  According to state committee members, the vote count was 128-124, with 13 abstaining, to approve a statement only expressing disappointment with Toomey. Locally Toomey is under fire from the Lycoming County Commissioners over not doing enough to help return air service to Williamsport after American Airline flights to Philadelphia are being lost later this month.

LOCAL COVID UPDATE
Lycoming County has 40 new cases of the virus, Northumberland County has 9,  Snyder has 11 new cases, Montour has three.  According to the PA Department of Health Statewide, new case numbers and   hospitalizations are coming down in North Central Pennsylvania. 2,564 new cases have been confirmed, and 74 new deaths have also reported.  Tuesday, there were  1,600 people hospitalized with COVID-19 statewide and 190 are on ventilators.

HOSPITALITY COMPANIES CAN APPLY FOR GRANTS
Governor Tom Wolf has announced a $145 million grant program for restaurants and other hospitality businesses in  all 67 counties in Pennsylvania based on population.  Grants will range from $5,000 to $50,000.You must sign up online by March 15. There is information about the COVID-19 Hospitality industry recovery program online HERE

SPORTS
HS Girls Varsity Basketball
District 4 Class AA Playoffs
South Williamsport beat Millville 29-23, Southern Columbia beat Muncy 58-24, Northeast Bradford beat Wyalusing 55-36

Tonight District 4 class AA HS Boys Basketball Playoffs
No. 8 Sayre takes on No.1 Muncy @7, Montgomery goes to Northeast Bradford at 7:30
Girls District 4 Class A Playoffs
Montgomery plays  Lourde’s at 6 PM, and North Penn-Liberty takes on Meadowbrook Christian a@7
HS Swimming D4 Championships @ Williamsport at 6 PM


Men’s Collegiate Basketball tonight
Minnesota comes to Penn State at  7pm

NBA
Grizzlies beat the Wizards 125 to 111, Celtics over at the Clippers 117 to 112, Hawks beat Heat 94 to 80, Spurs over the Knicks 119 to 93, Nuggets beat the Bucks 128-97, Suns beat the Lakers 114 to 104, Pistons and Raptors were postponed.
NBA Tonight
Jazz comes to Philly tonight for a 7 PM tip off with the 76ers,  Nets and the Rockets play in Houston at 7:30.

NHL
Penguins beat the Flyers 5-2, Islanders over the Devils 2-1, Rangers beat the Sabres 3-2, Blue Jackets over  Red Wings 4-1, Canadiens over the Senators 3-1, Jets beat the Canucks 5-2, Hurricanes beat the Predators 4-2, Lightning over Stars 2-nothing

BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS MARCH 2, 2021

NEW QUARANTINE POLICIES IN PENNSYLVANIA
The Wolf administration announced new policies yesterday for easing restrictions on large gatherings and eliminating a quarantine requirement for out-of-state travelers to Pennsylvania.  According to state officials, outdoor venues are now allowed to host events up to 20% of their maximum capacity, no matter the size of the venue. Indoor occupancy will be 15% of maximum capacity.  Both indoor and outdoor events will require masks and use social distancing guidelines. Governor Wolf has lifted the requirement for residents who are returning home from out of state to have a negative test within 72 hours of arriving. Officials considered the expanding percentage of residents who have been vaccinated and the rate of new infections in the decision to ease restrictions.

LOCK HAVEN WOMAN PLEADS NOT GUILTY IN DEATH OF NEPHEW
The Lock Haven woman charged in the death of her 9 year old nephew in her care, has plead not guilty of criminal homicide and other charges.  According to the Sun Gazette, if 36 year old Jamie Lynne Jackson is convicted of the crimes she’s charged with, the Clinton County DA is intending to seek the death penalty against her after filing a formal notice of aggravating circumstances last month.  In a preliminary hearing in January, police involved in the case said 9 year old Anson Landon Mitchell Stover was found in a second floor bathtub at Jackson’s  home on Bald Eagle St. in Lock Haven, last November with injuries consistent with abuse.  Jackson remains in the Clinton County Correctional Facility without bail.

A FEW POWER OUTAGES REMAIN TODAY
A handful of PPL customers are still experiencing power outages in north central Pennsylvania from windy conditions from overnight. Hundreds of customers have already had their power restored in Sunbury and Lewisburg from heavy wind damage there.  According to the coverage map for the electric company restoration is estimated for this afternoon before 2pm, but could change depending on conditions.  The national weather service says the wind advisory expired early this morning, and some areas may have seen wind gusts up to 50 miles per hour.

FREE RIDES TO VACCINATION APPOINTMENTS
River Valley transit has announced that they will provide transportation to any person in the community who has a scheduled appointment for a COVID-19 vaccination for free.  Advance notice is required and a reservation to and from the appointment can be made by calling River Valley Transit weekdays between 8:30am and 5pm.  Anyone who is in the transportation company’s service area may request a trip by noon the day prior to their appointment.  Go online to www.rideRVT.com for more information.

DALMATIA WOMAN FATALLY HIT BY A TRAIN
A woman was struck by a train in Northumberland County yesterday around 2pm near Water Street in  Lower Mahanoy Township.  According to Pennsylvania State Police at  Stonington, 21 year old Felicity Dawn Hocker, of Dalmatia, was struck by a train while on the tracks running parallel to Water Street.  State troopers say she died at the scene.   The Northumberland County Coroner said they aren’t releasing any more details at this time about the incident and are continuing the investigation in coordination with police.

LOCAL COVID UPDATE
The numbers of Pennsylvania residents with COVID is improving with the Pennsylvania of Health reporting the statewide percent positivity for the last week in February to be 6.3%.  As of Midnight March 1st, Northumberland County has 41 new cases, Snyder has 37  Lycoming County had 16 cases, Clinton with 5, Tioga only 2 and Sullivan no new cases. In the commonwealth, there were 1,628 additional positive cases and 26 fatalities from the virus.  The trend in the 14-day moving average number of hospitalized patients per day is about 4,000 lower than it was at the most recent peak on December 25, 2020.

ARSON SUSPECT TO BE EXTRADITED BACK TO CONNECTICUT
A man who is wanted by police in Connecticut for arson was apprehended along Interstate 80 West  in Northumberland County Saturday and taken into custody.  According to North Central PA dot com, 37 year old  Richard White, of Torrington, Conn was pulled over 8pm Saturday by state police who were aware he was a fugitive from justice for throwing homemade bombs at police in his state in several incidents.   White is in Northumberland County Jail on fugitive from justice charges and will be extradited back to Connecticut.

BRUSH PILE OPEN WHILE ACCESS GATE IS DELAYED
The city brush pile in Williamsport is open while the public works committee waits for the components for an electronic gate that will allow eligible residents to access the area 24 hours a day with a key card.  According to the Sun Gazette, officials say they are hopeful once the system is in place a news release will be published to inform residents to apply for their cards to gain access.  At this time, the brush pile is open 7:15a to 3:15p Monday through Friday and 9 a.m. to noon Saturday

SPORTS
HS Boys Varsity Basketball

Williamsport beat State College 58-45,
HS Girls Varsity Basketball
Central Mountain beat Williamsport 57-46

NBA
76ers beat the Pacers 130 to 114, Mavericks over Magic 130 to 124, Nuggets beat the Bulls 118 to 112, the Pelicans over Jazz 129 to 124, Nets beat the Spurs 124 to 113, Cavaliers over the Rockets 101 to 90, Trailblazers over the Hornets 123 to 111

NHL
Hurricanes beat the Panthers 3-2, Senators over Flames 5-1, Canucks over the Jets 4-nothing, Maple Leafs beat the Oilers 3- nothing, Golden Knights over Wild 5-4, Blues beat the Ducks 5-4, Sharks over Avalanche 6-2,
NHL tonight
Islanders will play the Devils in NJ, and Rangers play the Sabres at the Garden, Flyers and Penguins are in Pittsburgh* tonight at 7 PM on NBCSportsNetwork

*After Gov. Tom Wolf announced revised policies on gatherings yesterday, the Penguins’ PPG Paints Arena, which has a capacity of about 20,000, will allow 2,800 fans in-house tonight.

BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS MARCH 1, 2021

MAN’S BODY FOUND IN SUSQUEHANNA RIVER
An unidentified body of a man was found in the Susquehanna River in Upper Augusta Township on Saturday afternoon during a call that originally began as a water rescue for first responders.  According to the Daily Item, State police from Milton and Stonington answered the call that came in about 3pm Saturday about the incident at the Shady Nook Boat Launch in Snyder County.  Shamokin Dam police, Selinsgrove Boat Rescue and the Northumberland County Chief Deputy Coroner were on the scene, no other information has been released about the victim or the circumstances.

ONE MAN SHOT, ANOTHER GOES TO JAIL
A Woodward township man has been taken into custody and charged with criminal homicide after a shooting that left a Beech Creek man dead Friday night.  According to the Sun Gazette, the Clinton County Coroner pronounced 21 year old Jakob Lee Haines dead at the scene, and police took 19 year old Brian St. John, III into custody following the shooting at his residence on Brewery Hollow Road.  An autopsy was performed Saturday in State College and determined the shooting to be a homicide.  At his arraignment Saturday morning, St John  was denied bail and will be in Clinton County Court on Tuesday.  Lamar State police and the Clinton COUnty DA are asking for information about the incident, contact ClintonDA.org to give information.

NEW QUARANTINE GUIDELINES
New quarantine guidance was announced Friday from the State Department of Health for people exposed to COVID-19 but who have been already fully vaccinated. They have said that if someone is fully vaccinated, they do not need to quarantine after an exposure to the virus. But if it’s been three months after you’ve been fully vaccinated, you should quarantine if you’ve been exposed and find you are symptomatic., the CDC is limiting quarantine guidance to 90 days while additional research is conducted.

LOCAL BANK TO BUILD IN SOUTH WILLIAMPSORT
The Muncy Bank and Trust Company is planning a new location to be built in South Williamsport on land purchased there on the site of the former Seventh-Day Adventist Church.  According to the Sun Gazette, administrators from the bank say the headquarters and operations center for the company will remain in Muncy but a four-story banking center is planned to be a full-service bank and administrative offices.  According to officials of South Williamsport borough, the bank could spark future development around Market and Hastings Street.  Seventh-Day Adventist Church announced they were selling the property for  a new church and school at the site of their current school on Fleming Street.  Bank Construction should be complete in 2022.

PHILLY MEN CHARGED WITH ROBBING LOCAL PHARMACY
Two Southeastern Pennsylvania men were charged recently for a burglary that occurred in January in Mount Pleasant Mills.  According to State police, this isn’t he first time  28-year old Derick Haines and 38-year old Christopher Welch have been charged with pharmacy burglaries, but this incident happened at the Shade Mountain Pharmacy.  After an investigation, state police discovered the two Philadelphia men were their suspects with help from New Jersey police. They have been charged with charged with burglary, criminal trespass, attempted theft, and criminal mischief.

MAN WHO THREATENED EMPLOYEE BEING SOUGHT
A man with a face tattoo is being sought by Selinsgrove State police after an incident at the Ulta Beauty store in which he was asked to wear a mask and began screaming obscenities inside the store.  The unknown male is in his thirties and was captured on surveillance cameras.  The man left the area in a dark red SUV.  Witnesses say he used a threatening hand motion toward the manager of the store as welkl.  If you h ave information for police call them in Selinsgrove  570- 374-8145.

LAWMAKERS PROPOSE A BILL ALLOWING EMPLOYEES TO OPT-OUT OF VACCINE
There was a public hearing last Thursday in Harrisburg that about a proposed Pennsylvania House bill would give workers the right to refuse to get a vaccination or invasive medical test required by an employer.  According to PennLive, House Bill 262 would make it illegal for employers to fire, threaten, retaliate against or discriminate against employees who opt out of a vaccine or invasive medical test. Employers could be sued for violating the law, Rep. Russ Diamond of Lebanon County is sponsoring the bill and said it’s a matter of sticking up for personal liberties.

DOH COVID TOOL UPDATED
The Department of Health has announced new updates for the PA COVID Alert App and the  new ‘Your Turn’ tool.  According to the Department of Health, users can now access the ‘Your Turn’ tool to track state and county level COVID-19 vaccine metrics,  set a reminder for when it’s time to receive a second dose if necessary and also a link to the CDC’s vaccine side affects tracker tool. Now that the Johnson and Johnson one-dose vaccine was approved over the weekend, the DOH is awaiting guidance from the FDA and CDC, on next steps for vaccination of Pennsylvanians.

SPORTS
HS Boys Basketball from Saturday
Williamsport beat Susquehanna Township 60 to 57, Danville beat Saint John Neumann 80 to 57, N. Penn liberty beat Canton 54-48, Wellsboro beat Towanda 68-39, Loyalsock beat Athens 94-57 and Selinsgrove beat Mifflin County 45-39
HS Girls Basketball from Saturday
Millville beat Muncy 27-26, Towanda beat North Penn Mansfield 59-28, South Williamsport beat Canton 36-32

The D4 basketball playoffs kick off tomorrow –For the girls,  Lewisburg is the top seed in Class AAAA, with South Williamsport and Loyalsock number 3 seeds in Class AA and AAA tournaments, and on the Boys side, North Penn Liberty, Muncy and Loyalsock are top seeds in their respective classes with defending champion Montoursville at 3rd in AAAA, Saint John Neumann is 2nd seed for the Class A teams.

NASCAR
At the Dixie vodka 400 in Homestead-Miami, William Byron got the checkered flag followed by Tyler Reddick, Martin Truex, Jr., Kyle Larson and Kevin Harvick in fifth

NHL
Flyers beat the Sabres 3-three nothing, Islanders meet the Penguins 2-nothing, Bruins over the Rangers 4-1, Predators beat the Blue Jackets 3-1, Capitals beat the Devils 3-2, Blackhawks beat the Red Wings 7-2

NBA
Bucks beat the Clippers 105 to 100, Celtics beat the Wizards 111 to 110, the Knicks beat the Pistons 109 to 90, the Heat beat Hawks 109 to 99, Grizzlies over the Rockets 133 to 84, Lakers beat the Warriors 117 to 91, Suns beat Timberwolves 118 to 99, Hornets beat the Kings 127 to 126, the Bulls and Raptors were postponed
NBA tonight
The Pacers come to Philadelphia at 7pm and Brooklyn’s in Texas to play San Antonio at 8:30

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