BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS MAY 29, 2020

CITY COUNCIL VOTES TO ALIGN CITY RE-OPENING DATE WITH GOVERNOR
Williamsport City Council has voted to align the city’s guidance about limiting the numbers of individuals at public gatherings with the office of Governor Wolf, extending Mayor Derek Slaughter’s proclamation until June 11th.  According to the Sun Gazette, city council acknowledged that if and when the county goes to the green phase, there are still restrictions and recovery plans to be followed.  Some research done investigating other counties recovery plans is proposed to be on the agenda for the economic revitalization committee agenda for next week.

TIOGA COUNTY FOUNDRY TO CLOSE
The Waupaca Foundry in Lawrenceville, PA, will be closing in early August 2020, according to a press release by the Wisconsin company’s CEO, who said they notified employees about the changes Wednesday.  The job losses from the closure include 150 hourly and 50 salaried positions at the plant that manufactured automotive suspension components and is a result of capacity that exceeds demand in the supply chain. 

HIGH SPEED CHASE ENDS IN ARREST
A woman who fled from police in a high speed chase that began from the southbound Route 15 ramp in Williamsport along Interstate 180 to Loyalsock Township at alleged speeds in excess of 110 miles per hour, was arrested Wednesday and is in prison on $100k bail.  According to the Sun Gazette, 26 year old Shaniece Alexandria Wilson of Lycoming Creek Road was identified with a suspended photo ID, had no valid driver’s license with fraudulent emissions and inspection stickers.  In addition, police say Wilson was in possession of illegal drug paraphernalia and had an open container of alcohol.  She has been charged for a number of violations and will appear in District court Monday.

STATE PARK BEACHES TO OPEN NEXT WEEK
The Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources announced that all 58 state park beaches will be open to swimming effective June 6th and state park pools will remain closed through at least June 12, with most in designated yellow and green counties reopening June 13. Capacity at beaches and pools will be limited to 50 percent of the normal facility capacity, and there will be restriced visitor parking, and the wearing of face masks when not in the water. Facilities such as cabins, cottages, lodges, and yurts will be opening statewide on June 12th.

PA DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH UPDATE
Lycoming County has added one new case of the Coronavirus bringing the county total to 162  according to the PA Department of Health  and 18 deaths according to the Lycoming County Coroner, Northumberland County has 182 confirmed cases and 3 deaths reported.  Statewide there are 625 new cases of  the virus for a total of 70, 042.  There were 108 new deaths, bringing that statewide total to 5,373.

MAN RECOVERING FROM SKATEBOARDING ACCIDENT
Police say a 23 year old man from South Williamsport was hit by a car while skateboarding on West Mountain Avenue on Monday evening.  Police say the unidentified man is recovering from head injuries after allegedly running a stop sign on the skateboard and being hit by a 20 year old Muncy Valley man.  After the accident the victim was taken by ambulance to UMPC for treatment.

PA EDUCATION BUDGET WILL STAY THE SAME AS LAST YEAR
The General Assembly passed a five-month $25.8 billion budget to allow for a more detailed financial picture to emerge following the peak of the COVID-19 crisis. According to a press release from the offices of Sen. Gene Yaw and Reps. Garth Everett and Jeff Wheeland of Lycoming County, the measure is a stabilizing one, which will fund education for kindergarten to 12th grade at the same level as last year, and it also fully funds colleges and universities. The education section of the budget is extended beyond the five months to a full year, and contains no broad-based tax increases.

SUNBURY RIVER FESTIVAL CANCELLED
Sunbury Revitalization Inc. has cancelled this year’s Sunbury River Festival due to the pandemic and according to Governor Tom Wolf’s latest guidance on dining and professional sports in the green phase. SRI told media outlets that they will hold a smaller event for Sunbury citizens promoting Sunbury businesses instead. Also in Sunbury, The Hill Neighborhood Council has cancelled its Hill Night Out, but a hill work party will take place July 17th and 18th to help residents with outdoor beautification projects.

 

SPORTS
LITTLE LEAGUE
This Saturday, May 30th, starting at 3pm there will be a 9 hour marathon highlighting the best games from the Little League World Series in Williamsport on ESPN2 and the ESPN App. One of the games featured is the 2015 Championship game between Lewisberry, PA and Tokyo, Japan at Lamade Stadium.

NASCAR
Chase Elliott won his first Cup Victory of the season Thursday night in the rain-delayed event at Charlotte Motor Speedway. The event, postponed from Wednesday night, was the fourth Cup race in a 12 day span for NASCAR since the series resumed racing May 17. Denny Hamlin finished second, with three crew members sitting at home under suspension for an infraction Sunday night.

NFL
The Madden video game franchise will continue for at least the next six years.  NFL owners and the NFL Players Association on Thursday approved an extension of their deal with Electronic Arts, continuing a relationship as the league’s exclusive publisher of football simulation games that has existed for 30 years. The current contract was set to expire after the 2021 season

RUNNING
The traditional Boston Marathon has been cancelled for the first time in its  124-year history.  The race that draws 30,000 people, was already postponed from April 20th til September 14th.  There will be a virtual event in which runners can erify they ran the 26.2 miles to receive their finishers medal.

A new app has been developed that will allow fans who are watching from home to be a part of the stadium action.  By pressing buttons in the app, fans can trigger cheers and boos or other realistic noises on the field that will get louder in the stadium the more people participate.

BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS MAY 28, 2020

PA LAWMAKER KEPT CORONAVIRUS DIAGNOSIS QUIET
A Republican from Dauphin County who worked closely with several other leaders in the PA House Chamber has just revealed he has been self-quarantining after being exposed to the coronavirus and experiencing mild symptoms on and after May 14th.  According to PennLive, Representative Andrew Lewis disclosed his exposure to a few other members of his staff and Representative Russ Diamond who sits near him in the chamber.  Those people also self-quarantined.  House Democrats are reacting with shock and outrage that only GOP members were notified of Lewis’ exposure. Republican leaders said they followed the proper protocols so that anyone who qualified to be told of Lewis’ illness was notified and self-quarantined.

COMMISSIONERS SEND LETTER TO GOVERNOR REQUESTING GREEN PHASE CONSIDERATION
The Lycoming County Commissioners have written a letter to send to Governor Wolf and have shared it at lyco.org for the public to view.  In the document, they acknowledge that of the 17 counties who are scheduled to move into the green phase as of May 29th, Lycoming County, as the county seat, would like to be reconsidered for opening this week, since many of the factors and guidelines for reopening are met.  The commissioners expressed concern for the people and businesses in Lycoming County who are poised and ready to reopen iN a safe and responsible manner.  The request for “Lycoming County to enter the Green Phase” was sent to Governor Wolf Tuesday.

JOB CREATION AT NEW DOLLAR GENERAL IN OVAL
Fifteen jobs have been created in Oval, thanks to the recently completed construction of a new retail store there.  According to a press release by Williamsport’s Hutchinson Companies, the 9,100 square foot Dollar General building is different aesthetically than other new retail construction with a rustic style to complement the area’s architecture, as well as an added hitching post for horses belonging to Amish clientele.  The new Oval store celebrated a Grand opening at 149 Mountain View Lane opened yesterday.

PENNSYLVANIA DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH UPDATE
According to the Pennsylvania Department of Health there are 780 new cases of the coronavirus for a state wide total of 69,417.  There have been 115 people who have died from the virus as of yesterday, for a statewide total of 5,265.  Lycoming County has no new cases.  Secretary of Health, Dr. Rachel Levine says they are monitoring pediatric cases of “MISC Syndrome” <<,LEVINE 1 under investigation>>> Geisinger Medical Center reported last Saturday that they are monitoring their first pediatric inflammatory syndrome case in their Danville facility

LOCK HAVEN PLANNING A POTENTIAL FALL SEMESTER OPENING
Lock Haven University has announced plans that they are working through strategies so that they are ready for reopening in the fall.  According to a press release by the university, they are intent on opening the campus and reestablish campus life.  They have put together seven working groups of faculty, staff, students and community members to evaluate the considerations for every scenario that could arise when they resume studies at Lock Haven and hope to wrap up discussions in time to announce a decision on the fall semester in June.

DMV EXTENDS EXPIRING LICENSES TIL JUNE 30
If your Driver’s license is set to expire at the end of this month, PennDOT is giving you a month to take care of it.  According to the department, driver licenses, ID’s and learner’s permits, will be extended for Pennsylvania residents through June 30, 2020 in response to statewide COVID-19 mitigation efforts. A camera card is considered a driver’s license, so it is covered by the same terms and conditions is also extended through June 30, 2020.  You can take care of a lot of vehicle document tasks, plus get information on new hours and DMV policies at www.dmv.pa.gov.

UCONN STUDENT MURDER SUSPECT CAPTURED IN MARYLAND
The 23 year old University of Connecticut student accused of killing two people who was on the run for 6 days and spotted in eastern Pennsylvania convenience stores and shopping areas has been captured in Hagerstown Maryland.  According to WNEP Peter Manfredonia is suspected of killing 62 year old Ted DeMers last Friday and 23 year old Nicholas Eisele, who was found deceased Sunday in Derby, Connecticut. Authorities say he took a hostage in a stolen car and fled the state. After a multi-state manhunt, Manfredonia was taken into custody at a truck stop in Hagerstown near the Washington County Sheriff’s Office last night.

YWCA TO HOLD VIRTUAL AUCTION FUNDRAISER THROUGH THE WEEKEND
There will be a virtual auction tonight to benefit the YWCA North Central PA in place of their 9th Biennial Charity Gala and Auction that was cancelled due  COVID-19.  According to YWCA administrators the fun starts through Facebook Live starting at 7pm tonight, where committee members, employees, and an auctioneer will describe the important work of the YWCA and the items you can bid on.  The community is encouraged to support a rich history of empowering women and vibrant programs that change and save lives as the  YWCA has done in Lycoming County for 127 years. Find out more at ywcawilliamsport.org.

LOYALSOCK TOWNSHIP TAKING APPLICATIONS FOR RECREATION DEPARTMENT PROGRAMS
The Loyalsock Township recreation department has announced they are holding summer recreation programs beginning with Tennis on June 8th, limited sign u ps for the Sumer Youth Program on June 15th and the Summer Hoops basketball program on Jun 22nd.  The pool is also on a tentative schedule to open June 5th. Community members should expect modifications to the programs due to CDC modifications, but can go to loyalsocktownshipbos.com for registration forms and pool pass applications.

SPORTS

NBA
The Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame is postponing its’ enshrinement ceremonies for the class of 2020 until next year. According ESPN the alternate dates for October proposed we’re not feasible. The 2020 class includes Los Angeles Lakers legend Kobe Bryant, San Antonio Spurs great Tim Duncan, and former Minnesota Timberwolves and Boston Celtics star Kevin Garnett. There will be separate ceremonies for this year‘s class and the class of 2021 even though they’ll be held in the same calendar year.

NBA Media Ventures is being sued by a landlord who alleges the league has failed to pay $1.25 million in rent on its store on New York’s Fifth Avenue during the coronavirus pandemic. The suit was filed Tuesday in U.S. District Court in New Yorkby a landlord who collects $7.5 million per year, or $625,000 per month.  NBA Media Ventures did not pay rent for April and May, when the store was closed.

GOLF
Phil Mickelson wants to see “The Match” become an annual event.  According to the legendary golfer he wants to showcase people like Steph Curry, Michael Jordan or Tony Romo who are good golfers and also have great personalities. Last Sunday’s charity golf exhibition raised $20 million for COVID-19 featuring Mickelson, Tiger Woods, Peyton Manning and Tom Brady

NFL
NFL owners won’t vote this week on two rule proposals that would have established “sky judge” positions for the 2020 season. ESPN says the league could still stage an experiment that would allow for expanded communication between replay assistants in the booth and referees on the field.  The two rule proposals were put forth by the Baltimore Ravens and Los Angeles Chargers, but they were not endorsed by the league’s competition committee.

 

BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS MAY 27, 2020

COUNTIES WILL MOVE DESIGNATIONS FRIDAY
In his video press conference yesterday, Governor Tom Wolf mentioned a thank you to the Pennsylvania National Guard and also announced more details about the phased re-opening of the commonwealth  Dauphin, Franklin, Huntingdon, Lebanon, Luzerne, Monroe, Pike and Schuylkill move to yellow Friday and 17 other counties move to green,  including Bradford, Montour, Potter, Snyder, Sullivan, Tioga, and others, plus Centre County is allowed to move to green in a special consideration. All remaining counties in red are expected to move to yellow by June 5th at midnight.  No word on any movement from the yellow phase in Lycoming County as of yet.

LOCAL VETERINARIAN KILLED IN lAWN MOWER ACCIDENT
Pennsylvania State police in Montoursville have released more information about the lawnmower accident that happened in Watson Township Monday.  Police reports say that Local veterinarian 62 year old Dr. Bradford Baker was mowing the lawn on the creek bank at property on Torbert Lane and back tire dropped off the embankment slid causing the lawnmower to overturn on top of him at an undetermined time in the afternoon.  According to the Sun Gazette Kayakers who were passing on Pine Creek saw the overturned mower and called EMS.  State police processed the scene and Jerold Ross, the county’s chief deputy coroner pronounced Baker deceased.

EAST LYCOMING GRADUATION PLANS
East Lycoming School District has prepared a video presentation of most of their seniors for their graduation event planned for on June 3rd at the Lycoming County Fairgrounds.  According to the Sun Gazette, Superintendent, Michael Pawlik said people in about 130 cars lined up  6 feet apart will be invited to watch each student receiving their diploma.

SPEEDWAY TO OPEN AS SNYDER COUNTY MOVES TO GREEN
Attendance will be first come first serve at Selinsgrove motor speedway as they open after Snyder County  goes green they  will open its 2020 season with a “Breakout Weekend” Friday and Saturday, featuring Modern Heritage 410 sprint cars and super late models. Safety measures will be in place with fans in attendance will be required to sign a waiver before entering the track, acknowledging the risks involved.  Both shows will also be available for live streaming via pay per view.More information and the waiver to attend can be found on the speedway’s website at www.SelinsgroveSpeedway.com.

DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH UPDATE
As of midnight yesterday,  Pennsylvania Department of Health reported 451 new cases of the coronavirus ion the state for a statewide total of 68,637.  13 Deaths were reported for a total of 5,152 fatalities.  Lycoming County reports one new case for a total of 161 cases and 18 deaths.  In a video press conference yesterday, Secretary, Dr. Rachel Levine gave encouraging news that 61% of the people who have tested positive for the corona virus have recovered.   Dr Levine also said that even with the increased testing that is being done in the state, the numbers are still trending down.

SOME MANORCARE JERSEY SHORE PATIENTS WANT A TRANSFER
Officials with Roads to Freedom Center for Independent Living asked the Lycoming County commissioners at their Tuesday night meeting to allocate $250,000 to pay for the transfer of patients from a nursing home facility where more than a dozen people have died from the coronavirus. The plan could fund the transfer of ManorCare Jersey Shore at-risk patients, to a hotel. The commissioners made no decisions but are considering the request.  According to the Sun Gazette, 10 patients from Manor-Care Jersey Shore are requesting a transfer from the facility.

HOLIDAY TICKET VIOLATIONS TO BE DROPPED IN SUNBURY
Officials in Sunbury are dropping the street sweeping violations that were given out to the parked cars last Monday after confusion over the holiday and the regular sweeping schedule.  According to the Daily Item, city administrators said there was obviously confusion within the community when over 200 tickets were handed out on the holiday.  The public can visit the Facebook pages of the city to be aware of the future schedule.

UNITED WAY ACCEPTING FUND APPLLICATIONS THIS WEEK
The Lycoming County United Way is accepting applications for Emergency Food and Shelter funds.  The federal funds are available under the EFSP national board program which helps community agencies with food and shelter need for clients.  The deadline for applications is next Monday.  Find out more at lcuw.org

SPORTS

NASCAR Xfinity Truck Series
Chase Elliott snapped Kyle Busch’s seven-race Truck Series winning streak and collected a $100,000 bounty for beating NASCAR’s most successful truck driver yesterday at Charlotte Motor Speedway.   Kevin Harvick announced before the race that he would donate $50,000 to COVID-19 relief for any full-time Cup driver who finished ahead of Busch. The series sponsor, Gander RV & Outdoors, matched Harvick’s pledge, bringing the total to $100,000 for pandemic relief.

NHL
The NHL will abandon the rest of the regular season and go straight into the playoffs with 24 teams instead of 16 if it is able to resume play, according to commissioner Gary Bettman.  The games would be held inside empty arenas at two hub cities, where players, staff and others would be housed during the season restart.  Chicago, Columbus, Dallas, Edmonton, Las Vegas, Los Angeles, Minneapolis, Pittsburgh, Toronto and Vancouver are being considered.

HORSES
Two horses from the barn of two-time Triple Crown-winning trainer Bob Baffert have tested positive for a banned substance, according to multiple reports.  The New York Times reported one of the horses to test positive was Charlatan, an undefeated colt considered to be a top contender for the Belmont Stakes on June 20.

BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS MAY 26, 2020

The Secretary of the Department of Health, Dr. Rachel Levine said in a press conference Friday that they have been in specific consultation and guidance with the staff at ManorCare-Jersey Shore after it has been a hotspot for the coronavirus in the county. According to the Sun Gazette, administrators from HCR ManorCare said there are now 51 patients who have tested positive and 17 patients have passed away.  They also say that staffing levels are good and they have added new mandatory protective equipment.  Levine said if necessary the National Guard can be called to Jersey Shore to help.

No injuries were reported at Williamsport Wire Rope Monday, after a 30-gallon lube-oil tank caught fire within the building.  According to the Sun Gazette, city firefighters arrived at the Maynard Street facility about 4:30pm yesterday and said they extinguished a fire that was contained to a two-foot high tank.  The incident, which left the structure filled with smoke, is under investigation.

Governor Tom Wolf announced guidelines for summer camps and recreation and child care.  Certain part-day programs are permitted to operate without a waiver in counties in the yellow and green phases of the Governor’s phased-in reopening plan provided they follow state and federal guidelines. Summer programs operating in counties in the yellow or green phase must develop a written health and safety plan that follows CDC guidance and post the plan on the summer program’s publicly available website prior to providing services to children. All staff should wear cloth face coverings during child care and summer program operations

The non-profit organization, Disabled American Veterans and Recruit Military will host the Mid-Atlantic Virtual Career Fair for Veterans online tomorrow from 11am to 3pm eastern for all members of the military, past and present, as well as all military spouses and dependents. This virtual career fair is looking for a demographic with military-trained skill-sets in industries like distribution, supply chain, logistics, e-commerce, data storage/broadband.  Find a link to information on registering at WILQ.com in the news section

The Pennsylvania Department of Health announced yesterday that there are 473 new cases of the coronavirus with a total cases reported at 68,186.  Deaths in the state have gone up by 15 making the total in Pennsylvania 5, 139. There were two new cases of COVID-19 in Lycoming County for a total of 160.

A lawnmower accident may have claimed a life in Lycoming County yesterday.  According to the Sun Gazette, State Police were called late Monday afternoon to a scene where someone was reportedly trapped under a lawnmower off of Route 44 in Watson Township. At about 5:15, heavy rescue equipment was dispatched from the borough, but soon after, scanner reports called in the Lycoming County Coroner.  The paper says a deceased person was extricated from under the mower about 7:15 Monday evening.

According to PennDot a resurfacing project North Montour Street and Loyalsock Avenue will be starting today in Montoursville. There will be single lane conditions with flagging on North Montour Street from Broad Street in Montoursville to North Loyalsock Avenue in Fairfield Township in the daytime.  And work on North Loyalsock Avenue to the Interstate 180 overpass in Fairfield Township will take place at night, 8pm to 8am.  There will be milling and resurfacing of the existing roadway for 1.14-miles.

There will be an informational event next month in Williamsport for job vacancies within the US Postal Service.  Those interested in finding out more about careers with the Postal Service should go to the facility at 2901 Reach Road on June 3rd between 10 and 2 for information about completing applications and what positions are available.  Jobs are routinely available for city and rural carrier associates, tractor-trailer operators, mail handlers, maintenance workers and clerks. Applicants for all positions must be a U.S. citizen, a lawful permanent resident alien, a citizen of American Samoa or any other territory owing allegiance to the United States.

Sports
NCAA Basketball
Georgetown Hoyas men’s basketball coach Patrick Ewing is recovering at home after a weekend stay at the hospital with the coronavirus, On Monday, Patrick Ewing Jr. tweeted that his father’s coronavirus symptoms are being watched and that he is “now home and getting better.”
GOLF
Tiger Woods and Peyton Manning hung on to defeat Phil Mickelson and Tom Brady, 1 up, to win “The Match: Champions for Charity”  The match raised $20 million to benefit COVID-19 charities.
NASCAR
After six hours on Sunday that included a rain delay and overtime, Brad Keselowski won the Coca-Cola 600 for the first time in his career. Chase Elliot ultimately came in second after Jimmy Johnson was disqualified after his Cheverolet failed-post race inspection
TENNIS
Tennis star Naomi Osaka has set the record for the highest paid female athlete. She has collected $37.4 million in endorsements in the past year – more than any female ever in 12 months. Osaka replaces Serena Williams and ranks 29th in the world’s highest paid athletes.
NHL
The NHL will move to Phase 2 of the return-to-play plan and will allow players to train in small groups at team facilities. The league is targeting early June for the start of this phase. Phase 1 involved self-quarantine for players and staff since March 12th.
UFC
Bareknuckle Fighting Championship offered Mike Tyson more than $20 million to come out of retirement and compete. The company made an offer to 53-year-old Tyson earlier this month, with no word yet, but they say they will now attempt to include more money and more charitable donations to entice him to compete in the bareknuckle fight.
NBA
The NBA is in talks with Walt Disney to conduct a single-site scenario to resume their season in central Florida in late July. All games could be held at the ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex on the Disney property near Orlando. The conversations are still exploratory, according to NBA spokesman Mike Bass.

BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS MAY 25, 2020

ONE PEDIATRIC INFLAMMATORY SYNDROME CASE REPORTED IN VALLEY FACILITY
Geisinger is seeing their first Pediatric Inflammatory Syndrome case. According to the sun gazette, while the number of covid-19 cases on average are starting decrease, 12,000 people were tested across all Geisinger facilities where the first pediatric case was discovered.  IN a press conference Friday Dr Ryu, Geisinger CEO and president said of all the patients tested, they are continuing to see a downward trend, and they are closely monitoring the pediatric case in their Danville facility

LYCOMING STAYS IN YELLOW PHASE
It was determined Friday that Lycoming County will have to wait in the yellow phase a little longer.  Tioga, Clearfield, Cameron, Bradford, Potter, Snyder, Sullivan and Montour counties will be move from yellow to green on May 29th, allowing food establishments, personal care and indoor recreation to reopen at 50% capacity. The Pennsylvania Department of Health reported yesterday 1,455 new cases of the virus with statewide total at 67,713. There were 140 new deaths in the commonwealth, making the total 5,124. Lycoming County has no new coronavirus cases or deaths reported.

UNIDENTIFIED WOMAN DIES IN NISBET CRASH
This Saturday an elderly women from Nisbet was found dead after a crash. According to the Sun Gazette, police say the woman, whose name was not released, was driving toward towards the Susquehanna Township park at 1:30 pm before swerving off the road into an embankment, hitting several mailboxes and colliding with a pine tree.  Deputy county coroner Jerold Ross says the woman was not wearing a seat belt and was pronounced dead at the scene from blunt force trauma.

ONLINE MILITARY JOB FAIR WEDNESDAY
The non-profit organization, Disabled American Veterans and Recruit Military will host the Mid-Atlantic Virtual Career Fair for Veterans online this Wednesday from 11am to 3pm eastern for all members of the military past and present as well as all military spouses and dependents. This virtual career fair is looking for a demographic with military-trained skill-sets in Industries such as distribution, supply chain, logistics, e-commerce, data storage/broadband.  Find a link to information on registering HERE

FOOD BANK TO BENEFIT FROM BANK DONATION
The parent company of First National Bank, gave a $50,000 donation Friday in support of the Central Pennsylvania Food Bank’sCOVID-19 relief efforts across central Pennsylvania. The donation is part of the FNB Foundation’s $1 million financial commitment to supporting residents across central Pennsylvania through relief programs, financial assistance and volunteer activities. The Centre Foundation COVID-19 ACTION Fund is the other recipient of the donation.  According to a press release, the food bank has seen a 35 percent increase in food requests caused by the pandemic, and  is working to distribute more than two million pounds of food per day to those in need.

PUBLIC INVITED TO PLAY TAPS TODAY
A national news network is asking the public including veterans, musicians, teachers and students of all abilities to play taps today from their home porch, balcony or driveway today at 3pm in honor of our fallen veterans for Memorial Day. CBS News has provided sheet music for anyone who wants to participate today, preferably in Bflat.  It is available at HERE

 

 

BACKYARD BROADCASTING WEEKEND NEWS MAY 23, 2020

LYCOMING TO STAY  IN THE YELLOW
In a press release by Governor Wolf, Tioga, Clearfield, Cameron, Bradford, Potter, Snyder, Sullivan and Montour counties are  moving from the yellow to green phase on May 29th.  Wolf  says he expects the counties remaining red, mostly in the southeastern part of the state to move to yellow by June 5th.  Lebanon and Dauphin County will transition to yellow on May 29th as well.  Lycoming County remains in the yellow phase, along with Clinton, Columbia, Centre and Northumberland Counties.  According to the health officials, guidelines for counties in the green phase are being worked out now.

DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH UPDATE
The Pennsylvania Department of Health is reporting 866 new cases of the virus with a statewide total cases totaling 66,2058. There were 115 new deaths in the commonwealth, making the total 4,984.  In the phased approach determined by the Wolf Administration has cleared Tioga, Clearfield, Cameron, Bradford, Potter, Snyder, Sullivan and Montour counties to move from yellow to green on May 29th,  meaning that restaurants and bars, personal care, indoor recreation and entertainment can be open at 50% capacity.  Large recreational gatherings are still restricted and construction is ok to be at full capacity with the implementation of safety protocols.

WOLF EASES FORECLOSURE RULES FOR SOME
Rules on Foreclosures in the state are being loosened.  According to the Wolf Administration, a tenant who damages property or breaks the law can now be evicted with a modified executive order.  The moratorium banning  evictions and foreclosures for non-payment is scheduled to last until at least July 10th.

RESURFACING IN MONTOURSVILLE
According to PennDot a resurfacing project North Montour Street / Loyalsock Avenue will be starting this Tuesday after the Memorial Day Holiday. There will be single lane conditions with flagging on North Montour Street from Broad Street in Montoursville to North Loyalsock Avenue in Fairfield Township in the day.  And work on North Loyalsock Avenue to the Interstate 180 overpass in Fairfield Township will take place at night 8pm to 8am.  The 1.14-mile project includes milling and resurfacing of the existing roadway, base repairs and construction of curb ramps.

SHOOTING RANGES WILL OPEN
The state game commission is reopening shooting ranges in the counties being moved into the yellow phase and will begin to operate regular hours. The ranges in counties still classified as red with stay at home orders still in place will continue to to stay closed. Additional shooting ranges within the red will be commented on by the game commission as authorized.

MEMORIAL DAY IS VIRTUAL AT THE LIBRARY
The James V Brown Library has provided a permanent online memorial to honor Lycoming County veterans lost in our country’s wars.  A virtual World War II Memorial as well as a booklet compiled by George P Wolfe and volunteers commemorating the 60 Lycoming County residents lost in the Korean war, are now available and can be found under “Online Resources” in the “Digital Archives.”The permanent online monument www.jvbrown.edu is interactive and allows relatives, friends and coworkers to search the site by name.

SPORTS
NASCAR
The NASCAR coca cola 600 will be taking place this Sunday without spectators. People who had purchased tickets will be receiving refunds, or an event credit with an additional 20 percent added on.

NBA
Jerry Sloan, coach for the Utah jazz has died at age 78. It was reported he died of complications from Parkinson and Lewey body dementia.

NFL
In preparation for possible future social distancing regulation the Steelers will be the first NFL team to limit ticket sales. They will be cutting their available tickets by 50 percent.

MLB
Tampa Bay Rays pitching prospect Brent Honeywell has had an operation to remove scare tissue from his right ulnar nerve and is set to begin rehabilitation exercises

HS SPORTS
The Shamokin Area school District is installing new turf at their football field. According to WNEP an anonymous donor provided 250,000 dollars toward the estimated cost of 440,000 projected for new turf. Scheduled to be installed in may the field will be used for other school sports and classes in the fall.

BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS MAY 22, 2020

Governor Wolf has announced that later today he will possibly be changing the designations for some of the 18 counties in Pennsylvania who remain in the red to the yellow phase; and that there is even a chance for some counties to move into the green designation – which bodes well for Lycoming County who has seen lass thatn 1,000 cases of COVID-19 for each of the last 11 days.  According to the Secretary of Health, Dr Rachel Levine, says when the metrics for moving into the green phase are released, the criteria for what restrictions, if any will be announced.  The stay at home order for counties in the red designation still stands until June 4th for more than 60% of PA’s 12.8 million residents in the eastern counties, including Philadelphia.

Drinks-to-go are now legal from Pennsylvania Liquor license holders like restaurants, bars and hotels who have lost at least 25% of their average monthly sales.  According to Governor there will be limits for mixed drinks to be under 64 ounces, be in a sealed container and not be served after 11pm.  Establishments can continue selling the drinks after the disaster order lifts as long as they are operating at less that 60% of their normal business.

Summer Day Camps and recreation programs in Williamsport have been cancelled according to Mayor Derek Slaughter, who also announced yesterday that Splash Cove at Memorial Park will not open for the summer.  Other communities are on hold, waiting to hear what restrictions they must follow.  According to the Sun Gazette, pools in Loyalsock, Jersey Shore, and Muncy are all getting ready but are on hold until the governor and department of health release guidance for the facilities.

This Memorial Day will be much quieter than any other Memorial day with no big parades, parties or cookouts this year. However, you can still do your part to recognize veterans despite the lack of togetherness. According to the Sun Gazette, area veteran’s groups are encouraging residents to have a silent observance for loved ones, donate to a favorite charity, call families of veterans or simply say thank you, from 6 feet away.

The Pennsylvania Department of Health reports that there were 980 new cases of the coronavirus  bringing the statewide total to 65, 392.  There were 102 new deaths in PA, with a total of 4,869.  Lycoming County has no new cases and no new deaths holding steady at 152 cases.  We have  had less than 1000 cases per day for 11 days in a row, which could help the Lycoming county be eligible for a move into the green phase today  possibly to be announced during a planned press conference by Governor Wolf.

According to Corey Wright of Little League International, any and all Little League activities will not resume until all counties in PA are in the green. However according to the sun gazette there are best practices outline for when baseball does begin in Lycoming county. While baseball is a relatively safe sport amongst the pandemic due to the large distance between players, there are many things that could be implemented. Limiting things like spitting on the field, or high fiving, as well as spacing out players in the dugout, and doing away with concessions, will likely be impleented as things transition into the green.

A prayer vigil was held at ManorCare Jersey Shore last night for residents at the facility.  About 70 people from Jersey Shore Presbyterian Church gathered to show love and support for the residents and staff there.  According to the ManorCare administrators, there have now been 53 residents testing positive for the virus and 15 have died from it.  Other parishioners from Mountain View Alliance Church were there to pray for residents and staff.  Since mid-March visitors have been banned from visiting nursing homes and long term care facilities.

According to federal law, the US flag and subordinate flags should be flown at half-staff on Memorial Day until noon. Then all flags should return to full staff at the end of the day. Governor Wolf announced in March that the Pennsylvania flag can be flown at half-staff to honor covid-19 deaths in the commonwealth during the pandemic.

As the lead agency in the state for emergency medical services the Secretary of the Pennsylvania Department of Health, Dr Rachel Levine has recognized EMS personnel week in her video press conference yesterday.  She said over 42,000 certified EMS personnel and more than 1,000 licensed ground and air agencies in the commonwealth respond to more than 1 million requests for service each year.

Sports
NFL
New England Patriots owner Robert Kraft’s championship super bowl ring recently sold for over a million dollars Thursday night during the largest virtual fundraiser in history called the All in Challenge. All proceeds are going to help feed those in need.

There will be a docuseries on Tom Brady that will air after the popular Michael Jordan series “The Last Dance”  The 9 episode series will be called “Man in the Arena”  and will account the pivotal moments in his career, including all 9 of his Superbowl appearances with the New England Patriots

Dak Prescott turned down a record deal from the Dallas Cowboys – a 5-year $175 million contract would have made Prescott the highest paid quarterback in NFL history.  He is reported to be asking for a $45 million a year.  If no deal is reached he will –play under the francise tag.

An adult website is bidding for the rights to name the home of the New Orleans Superdome after Mercedes-Benz said they won’t renew their contract with the team.  There’s a $15 million dollar bid to name the Saint’s base Home the Stripchat Superdome

MLB
The Chicago cubs and Pittsburgh pirates will be issuing pay cuts while they await the fate of major league baseball this season due to the corona virus pandemic. No layoffs are expected as of now.

An autographed Bowman Draft Chrome Red Refractor – the 2009 rookie card of LA Angels Mike Trout, sold at auction Wednesday for $900K

BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS MAY 21, 2020

DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH UPDATE
The Pennsylvania department of health reported technical issues with their statewide reporting system Wednesday, but has updated numbers as of midnight yesterday, citing 746 new COVID-19 cases for a statewide total of 64,412.  143 new deaths were reported in the Commonwealth for a statewide total of 4,767.  There were three new cases of coronavirus reported in Lycoming County for a county total of 152.

NO NEED TO FEAR PROSECUTION TO OPERATE IN THE YELLOW
Small businesses and owners are now immune from criminal investigation or prosecution involving reopening during the yellow phase in Lycoming County, according to a press release from the District Attorney, Ryan C. Gardner. According to the Sun Gazette, narcotic activity and violent crime is on the rise and resources need to be diverted away from enforcing Governor Wolf’s reopening restrictions.  Citing that businesses should be mindful of health guidelines,  Gardner reminds the businesses that the governor can still impose civil penalties, such as revoking licenses, and enforcing mandated insurance policies.

ELEMENTARY PRINCIPAL TO TAKE ON DUAL ROLE
The principal at Cochran Primary School, Kirk Felix, will assume the duties of principal at Jackson Primary School for the upcoming school year. With the addition of a $6 thousand dollar stipend for the dual role, Dr. Timothy S. Bowers, superintendent at Williamsport Area School District, made the announcement at the district board meeting held via ZOOM Tuesday.  Among other business, a $488,663 contract with BLAST  was approved to provide special education services to school-age children. The next board meeting will be at 6 p.m. June 23

GRANGE FAIR CANCELLED
The Centre County Grange Fair Committee announced with sadness yesterday that the146th iteration of the Centre County Grange Fair and encampment is canceled due health protocols brought upon by the COVID-19 pandemic, according to the festival’s president. According to the Centre Daily Times the other Pinacle events in Centre county; The Central PA 4th Fest, Central Pennsylvania Festival of the Arts, People’s Choice Festival and Philipsburg Heritage Days were all cancelled as of April.

Two bills have passed in the House that can help Pennsylvania restaurants in counties in the designated yellow phase reopen safely allowing the use of creative seating arrangements and fulfil state guidelines for social distancing.  According to a press release by Rep. Garth Everett, the house bills which will go for a vote in the coming days, amend the rules of using outdoor spaces to up to 50% capacity as well as establishments without determined outdoor seating, to be allowed to use designated parking areas for dining.  The temporary seating would be roped-off with a single entry point.

A Jordan Township man has been charged with taking his neighbors cows in January,  killing one of them and wounding another.  State police say Gary Colatosti of South Woods road was found to have evidence of the death of one of the cows that had escaped a previous day from the Kitzmiller farm on Keller Hollow Road, on his property.  There were also police reports of arguing and fighting around the property during these same days.  According to the Sun Gazette, Colatosti was charged with animal cruelty, criminal mischiuef and tampering with evidence charges in district court and was released on $35k bail.

According to the Lycoming County coroner, there was another death of a resident who had tested positive for COVID-19 at ManorCare-Jersey Shore, bringing the total deaths there to 15 out of the 16 in the county.  According to the Sun Gazette, administrators for HCR ManorCare said there are just 53 residents who have now tested positive for the virus and 25 negative.  The 14 staff members who have tested positive are under quarantine at home

The statewide board of directors of the Foundation for Free Enterprise Education, voted to cancel Pennsylvania Free Enterprise Week 2020 this summer. Each July and August for the past 31 years, thousands of high school students and volunteers from across the state gathered on the campuses of Lycoming College and the Pennsylvania College of Technology to explore business and the American free enterprise system.  According to a news release, Pennsylvania Free Enterprise Week will return to Williamsport in 2021.

 

Sports
NASCAR
Denny Hamlin won NASCAR’s first Wednesday race since 1984 when rain stopped the event with 20 laps remaining at Darlington Raceway after Kyle Busch caused Chase Elliott to crash eight laps earlier to bring out the caution.

NFL
Dallas Cowboys defensive end Aldon Smith was granted conditional reinstatement yesterday by the NFL from an indefinite suspension for violation of the league’s personal conduct and substance abuse policies.The move will allow Smith to take part in meetings with Cowboys coaches and teammates in the virtual offseason program beginning Tuesday.

An unnamed NFL player is suing United Airlines, alleging that he was sexually harassed, assaulted and violated by a female passenger on a February flight from Los Angeles to Newark, New Jersey, and that the airline failed to properly respond to complaints.  The civil suit, filed Monday in an LA Court, seeks unspecified statutory and punitive damages from the airline.

NBA

NBA teams are expecting guidelines to come out around June 1st that will allow franchises to start recalling players who’ve left their markets,  as a first step toward a formal ramp-up for resuming the season. Teams are also awaiting the word that they are allowed to expand individual workouts already underway to include more team personnel.

NHL
The NHL and the players association are discussing a 24-team conference-based playoff format for a potential restart of the 19-20 season this summer.  There will likely be no fans at the games.  The NHLPA executive committee will meet today to discuss the format and return to play issues.

A new Bourbon will be released next week that is backed by Eli and Peyton Manning, Tennis legend, Andy Roddick, sportscaster, Jim Nance, and 40 other investors.  Sweetens Cove Tennessee Bourbon Whiskey  – a 13 year cask-aged product, will debut Tuesday at the retail price of $200 for Tennessee residents, online only on May 26th starting at 9am. The first 20 bottles will be reserved for charity fundraising.

The Penn State community is among the Division I football and basketball student-athletes who can participate in on-campus voluntary athletics activities beginning June 1.  The Division I Council gave the go-ahead in a virtual meeting Wednesday, as long as all local, state and federal regulations are followed.

BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS MAY 20, 2020

DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH BRINGS IN TEAM FROM CDC TO ASSIST NURSING HOMES
According to the Pennsylvania Department of Health, there were 610 new positive coronavirus cases added to the total of 63,056 statewide. Lycoming County had no new cases as of yesterday.  There were 119 new deaths reported in the state for a total of 4,624.  Secretary of Health Dr. Rachel Levine reported that in efforts to control the pandemic striking nursing homes and personal care facilities the state requested and has received specific help from an action team from the CDC in Atlanta Georgia In nursing and personal care homes, there are 13,813 resident cases of COVID-19, and 2,191 cases among employees at 557 distinct facilities in 44 counties.
YOU CAN TEST FOR THE VIRUS AT HOME
Mobile at-home testing for Coronavirus is available for patients through UPMC and Susquehanna Regional EMS’s mobile integrated health model.  According to the Sun Gazette, hospital officials say these services are specifically for anyone who cannot make it in due to mobility reasons, they are elderly or pediatric care, they are unable to make it to a collection center or even for fear of contracting the virus.  Those who are referred by their primary care provider can have a specimen taken via a nose swab test in a patient’s own home in Lycoming and Clinton, Tioga, Union and Northumberland counties.  The tests are then taken to the lab at UPMC Williamsport where results come back as quick as 24 to 48 hours

STATE RENT REBATES COULD BE EARLY
The Property Tax/Rent Rebate Program rebates may be early this year.   State Treasurer Joe Torsella announced yesterday that many older homeowners, renters and people with disabilities will receive early rebates. The distribution of rebates by the Department of Revenue and Treasury is different than prior years. Rather than a large distribution of rebates on July 1, they will be processed and distributed on a first-in-first-out basis. This gradual process means some claimants will receive their rebates earlier than others.

PA BREWER WILL HAVE COVID-19 FUNDRAISIER
There will be a virtual celebrity fundraiser called Cheers PA to benefit Pennsylvania hospitality workers, bartenders and waitstaff who have been financially impacted by COVID-19.  According to the Pottsville Brewer, Yuengling and Phillies All-star pitcher, Aaron Nola will host the Hospitality Assistance Response of Pennsylvania, or HARP.  Fans can donate from now until June 19th and enter for a chance to win experiences with or signed memorabilia from PA celebrities and athletes and Phanatics from the Phillies, Eagles, Steelers and Penguins.  Get details at yuengling.com/cheersPA

GOVERNOR DECIDING WHEN TO GO GREEN
No new cases of the corona virus in Lycoming County, which helps keep things positive for staying in the yellow designation, however,  Dr Rachel Levine responded to media questions during the daily department of health update  about when counties may transition from the Yellow to Green designation , saying the governor will likely make a decision about the change in a few weeks.  Two Thirds of the state will be in the yellow phase as of midnight on May 22nd.  There were 610 new positive coronavirus cases added to the total of 63,056 statewide in 67 counties with 4,505 confirmed deaths.

LYCOMING COUNTY TAXES EXTENDED
In order to help out small businesses and those who are struggling financially due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the time to file real estate taxes was extended Tuesday.  The Comissioners approved a resolution to extend the face value period for payment of real estate taxes to Aug. 31. According to the Sun Gazette,  the treasurer said the county remains on target for what it typically would have in taxes at this time. And the commissioners stated they wanted to help residents with cash flow problems they may be facing.

MUNCY SCHOOL BOARD APPROVED PROPOSED BUDGET WITH NO INCREASE
The Muncy School Board unanimously approved the 2020-21 proposed final budget virtually, through a call-in format with no real estate tax increase. If given final approval next month, the budget will maintain the current tax rate at 16.72 mills for district homeowners.  The board did retain the option to enact an increase before the final vote on the budget in June.  They also set the earned income tax at 1.25 percent, real estate transfer at .5 percent and local services at $5.00, all with no changes to the current rates.
Governor Wolf may allow Pocono Raceway to hold races without fans in late June if their numbers improve in Monroe County –currently in the red designation.  Wolf said that if Monroe County moves to yellow before the races, then NASCAR may hold the two races as long as there are no spectators present and guidelines are followed to keep competitors safe. Pocono Raceway  is scheduled to host races June 27 and 28.

VALLEY SCHOOL HOPEING FOR GRADUATION THIS SUMMER
Selinsgrove Area School District said they will  be distributing diplomas to those who need them for work or other future plans, but the principal at Selinsgrove told media outlets that through a student survey, and in consultation with class officers they will “wait and see” for a possible summertime graduation. If social distancing guidelines are not eased there are photos and videos in the planning phase for a virtual diploma distribution, in case they can’t gather together.

NORTHUMBERLAND COUNTY ROAD CLOSED
Motorists are advised that Salem Road in Upper Mahanoy Township, Northumberland County, is closed for maintenance work between Sliding Hill Road and Heim Road.  A PennDOT maintenance crew is replacing a deteriorating pipe through this morning weather permitting.  A detour is in place using Erdman Road, Haas Road, Valley Road, Cider Press Road in Schuylkill County, and Route 3010 North Schwaben Creek Road.  Expect expect changing traffic patterns in the area.

SPORTS
College sports
Lycoming College will induct two former athletes into the Middle Atlantic Conference (MAC) Hall of Fame. Darrin Kenney a former football stand out from 1992, and NCAA wrestling champion Ron Buddy Knoebel from 1965.

Minor League Baseball
CrossCutters still waiting to hear From MLB on whether or not a season will be played with their home opener scheduled at Bowman Field for June 19 against the State College Spikes.

NASCAR
Tonight is the first Wednesday race since 1984 when Richard Petty won his 200th career Cup race at the Firecracker 400 at Daytona on July 4th .  Tonight is the Toyota 500 at Darlington Raceway in South Carolina ahead of this weekend’s Coca-Cola 600 in Charlotte

HORSES
the 2020 Belmont stakes has been postponed from Saturday June 6th to Saturday June 20th, due to the coronavirus.  It will also be 1 and 1/8th miles instead of 1 ½.  The Belmont is the first race in the triple crown this year instead of the last.  The Derby is on September 5th and the Preakness is October 3rd.

BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS MAY 18, 2020

Governor Wolf announced Friday 12 counties which are eligible to move into the yellow phase as of May 22nd. Adams, Beaver, Carbon, Columbia, Cumberland, Juniata, Mifflin, Perry, Susquehanna, Wyoming, Wayne and York will all change from the red. This brings yellow phase counties to 37 statewide with only 18 states left to qualify.  Governor Wolf defended his administration’s actions <<< WOLF 1>>>. Wolf said the remaining 18 counties must remain vigilant, despite their frustrations, for any chance of normalcy in the future.

Police are searching for a man who fled on foot Sunday night after stabbing a woman at a convenience store in Loyalsock Township. According to the Sun Gazette, police responded to the store on Northway road where a 59 year old woman had been stabbed in the neck.  They say the suspect, a black male wearing a white mask ran from the scene about 7pm toward Loyalsock Township High School.  The unnamed woman was conscious and alert after the stabbing according to medical personnel.

There were accusations last week that there have been alleged violations of the Sunshine Act- which requires Pennsylvania agencies to conduct business in public – in Montgomery Borough Council proceedings, by former Council woman Shawn Coles.  According to the Sun Gazette,   Coles said she was given direction by Council President Susan Andrews on how to vote, and was excluded from secret meetings with other members of the council.  Coles’ resignation was accepted at last Tuesday’s meeting, along with letters of resignation from Mayor Fae Herb and Officer Ken Flewelling – with the reasons not disclosed.  Andrews stepped into the role as mayor following Herbs resignation, the council has 30 days to fill the vacancies.

There will be an opportunity for people in Williamsport to honor veteran’s this Memorial Day beginning Monday at the Williamsport Vet Center.   Anyone with a veteran’s memento, picture, or memorial is invited to hang it from the paracord display this Monday through Memorial Day.  A virtual ceremony will be held on GoTOMeeting  Monday at 10am to introduce the project.  Email [email protected] for details.

The Pennsylvania Department of Health today confirmed as of midnight yesterday, that there are 623 additional positive cases of COVID-19, bringing the statewide total to 62,234. Lycoming County has had 147 positive cases and 12 deaths to date according to the Lycoming County Coroner, Northumberland county reports 141 cases, Union 47 cases and 1 death reported. Clinton county has 44 cases, Sullivan, two cases now.  The Department of Health is reporting 76 new fatalities from the weekend with 4,418 total deaths in Pennsylvania

A man died from asphyxiation after being overcome by fumes in a 60 foot grass-silo at a farm between Washingtonville and Jerseytown Friday morning.  According to the Sun Gazette, the Montour County Coroner said 45 year old Abraham Stoltzfus was stuck in the silo chute when his 16 year old son called for help after also being affected by the fumes.   Other family members and a neighbor pulled Stolzfus from the silo, he was pronounced dead at the scene, his son was treated and released from Geisinger Medical Center

Today is the last day to register to vote before the June 2nd election in Pennsylvania.  You can register online at  pavoterservices.pa.gov or print a blank voter registration form from the same site and hand deliver it to your county voter registration office. You must be a Pennsylvania resident for 30 days before the election in order to be eligible to vote.  If you have any questions, please call 1.877.VOTESPA (1.877.868.3772)

Overnight work will continue this week in Loyalsock Township along the Golden Strip.  According to PennDOT, the project will continue along East Third Street between Country Club Drive to River Avenue. Repairs to the traffic signals will be completed after the resurfacing has been performed.  The work will be completed through Friday this week from 9pm to 6am with the project expected to be completed in the late-summer of 2020.

 

Sports
NASCAR
Within a silent empty grandstand, Kevin Harvick beat Alex Bowman to win NASCAR’s first race back Sunday.  The Real Heroes 400 at Darlington Motor Speedway in South Carolina was dedicated to health care workers fighting the coronavirus pandemic. The names of health care workers across the country were substituted for the drivers’ name above the door on each of the 40 cars.

GOLF
Rory McIlroy and Dustin Johnson partnered up at Seminole Sunday as live golf returned to television for a skins game also with Matthew Wolff and, Rickie Fowler, that raised more than $5 million for COVID-19 relief funds. Next up in the sport is May 24th, where Tiger Woods and Peyton Manning will face Phil Mickelson and Tom Brady in a match billed as “Champions for Charity” for more COVID-19 relief efforts.

MLB
Major league baseball is expected to lose an average of $640,000 per game this season due to the empty ball parks.

And once major-league baseball does return it will be without players spitting, part of the new draft of the return-plan for baseball.  Also banned, high-fives, fist bumps and hugging – plus chewing tobacco and sunflower seeds will probably be eliminated. They will also be encouraging players to not socialize with the other team and not throw the ball around after an out. Players will not be in the dugout, but in the stands 6 feet apart.

NBA
A signed pair of Air Jordan ones from Michael Jordan’s 1984-85 Rookie Season was sold at auction last night for $560 thousand dollars.  The shoes were expected to bring in only 150 thousand – but 10 bidders drove the price up 300 thousand in the last 20 minutes of a bidding war.

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