BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS APRIL 23, 2020

COLOR CODED REOPENING FOR THE COMMONEWEALTH
Governor Tom Wolf last night addressed Pennsylvanians with more details and guidelines about reopening the state on a region by region basis with north central and northwestern segments first to be considered.  A color coded red-yellow-green phase system has been implemented with the commonwealth currently at red meaning all residents will follow stay-at-home orders and only essential business operates. Wolf says the yellow and green phases will come as we hit certain benchmarks.  A primary benchmark is that a county must average fewer than 50 new positive cases of the virus per 100,000 residents for 14 days.  Wolf says if there are flare ups of COVID-19 cases, it’s possible to shut down back to the red phase again if necessary.

DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH COVID-19 NUMBERS
The Pennsylvania Department of Health confirmed yesterday that there are 1,156 additional positive cases of COVID-19, bringing the statewide total to 35,684. Officially, Lycoming County has 43 cases and two deaths. Clinton County 13 cases, Sullivan one case, Tioga 15 and two deaths. Among positive and probable cases of COVID-19 in the state, as of yesterday 58 new deaths were reported bringing the statewide total to 1,622.  Sec. of Health Dr. Rachel Levine continues to urge Pennsylvanians to stay home making as few trips as possible to shop  and wear a mask to protect not only yourself, but others. There are 136,272 patients who have tested negative to date.

EVAN GETS FASTER TESTING KITS FOR CERTAIN PATIENTS
Evangelical Community Hospital reports that they have started using a limited supply of COVID-19 RNA testing kits that provide faster results than were previously available. Administrators from Evan  says the kits will be prioritized for patients at the hospital,  Emergency  patients to be admitted, and patients being discharged to skilled nursing facilities. Accoridng to the Sun Gazette, some test kits at Evan are still conducted use of an off site commercial or state lab.  They say 614 patients tested for the virus, 65 of them positive and one death.

FARMER WHO EMPLOY SEASONAL WORKERS MUST FOLLOW COVID-19 GUIDELINES
The state department of Agriculture has set standards for farmers who provide housing for seasonal workers on their properties called the Seasonal Farm Labor Act.  According to the department, farm labor camps must be modified to ensure social distancing in living quarters, as well as standards for sanitation, food facilities and fire protection.  There are also requirements to follow if a worker is diagnosed  with COVID-19.  A complete list of guidelines is available at agriculture.pa.gov.

TURBOTVILLE CANCELS PET PARADE AND CARNIVAL
The Turbotville Area Community Carnival Committee has announced that they have regrettably made the decision to cancel the 2020 Community Carnival and Pet Parade, originally scheduled for June 1st thru the 6th. According to their social media reports, the cancellation comes due to an abundance of caution due to the COVID-19 pandemic.  They are looking forward to the carnival in 2021.

GOLF
A Tiger Woods-Phil Mickelson golf match involving football legends Peyton Manning and Tom Brady is planned for May, according to Turner Sports. “The Match: Champions for Charity” will benefit coronavirus relief. The event will air live on TNT — possibly Memorial Day weekend — at an undisclosed location without spectators.
NFL
The NFL draft could be the most bet on sports event ever tonight, as all sports are shut down due to the corona virus.  Sources involved in the The gambling industry say online betting sites are taking in 3 times the amount of bets and money on this year’s draft compared to last year.  Wagers across the industry could total $5 million IN the US.

MLB
Major League Baseball on Wednesday suspended Boston Red Sox video replay system operator J.T. Watkins without pay through the 2020 postseason and stripped the team of its second-round draft pick this year after completing an investigation into allegations that the Red Sox stole signs during the 2018 season.  Former Red Sox manager Alex Cora, is suspended through the 2020 postseason as well — but only for his previous conduct as Houston’s bench coach,

NHL
NHL greats Wayne Gretzky and Alex Ovechkin might not be the greatest when it comes to virtual hockey, but their online games Wednesday helped raise more than $40,000 for relief efforts related to the coronavirus pandemic. More than 300,000 fans watched their EA Sports NHL 20 showdown via a livestream on the Washington Capitals’ Twitch channel.  Gretzky and Ovechkin matched donations so the money will be split between 2 Canadian food bank funds.

BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS APRIL 22, 2021

COVID-19 COUNT NOW DETERMINED BY CONFIRMED AND PROBABLE CASES
The Pa Department of Health has reported a total of 34, 528 total coronavirus cases in the state with 1,296 new positive cases.  Health Department Secretary Dr Rachel Levine has reported in recent days they are reconciling data from various sources to get accurate numbers, and announced yesterday how they define cases of the virus; as confirmed or probable.  “Confirmed”, being those who have had a positive test result and “probable” being those who have been in contact with those infected and who have symptoms.  There are 360 new deaths reported bringing that total to 1,564.  Deaths are also being counted as confirmed and probable. Statewide there are now 1,264 confirmed covid-19 deaths and 300 probable, with coronavirus as a secondary cause of death.

LYCOMING COUNTY CORONER UNSATISFIED WITH DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH REPORTING
As the Pennsylvania Department of Health reconciles data from various state sources and reports deaths of COVID-19, the Lycoming County Coroner told the Sun Gazette that he, along with other coroners in the commonwealth are frustrated with the way the Pennsylvania Health Department has been compiling data and not involving area coroners at all.  County Coroner Charles E. Kiessling Jr., who is head of the state’s PA State Coroners Association, says it’s flawed to classify the death of person on where they lived, not where they died.  According to a coroners law in place since 1933, a county coroner or medical examiner has jurisdiction and must be notified of deaths in their county.  Kiessling said that the health department did not notify him of the two deaths now reported in Lycoming County.

HIT AND RUN ACCIDENT INJURES WOMAN AND CHILD ON A BIKE
A woman riding a bike with an 11 month old child in a carrier on the back was struck in a hit and run Tuesday morning in Mifflinburg.  According to North Central PA dot com, 23 year old Abigail Martin  was operating the bike heading west on the 1100 block of Red Limestone Ridge Road.  Police report a person driving a white sport utility vehicle hit Martin and the baby and fled the scene on Red Ridge Road.  Life Flight responded to the scene.  Police are asking if you have information about the incident or know of a white Ford Explorer model year between 2005 and 2010 with front end damage, call state police at Milton.  Officials at Geisinger said Martin was in fair condition but no word on the condition of the child.

RECYCLING LOCATIONS TO OPEN IN COUNTY
Lycoming County Commissioners said in their meeting yesterday that they are preparing for two recycling locations to open in the county.  According to the Sun Gazette, Lycoming County Resource Management Services will collect recycling from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Thursday until Saturday. At the  Pennsylvania College of Technology parking lot on W. Third St., next to the Transfer Station), and the Kmart parking lot, on E. Third St. in Loyalsock Township. Residents are asked to wear masks while being at these sites.

LOW COVID NUMBERS MAKE ELECTIVE SURGERY POSSIBLE AT UPMC
UPMC announced yesterday they will resume some elective surgeries amid the absence of a predicted surge of COVID-19 patients in Central and Western Pennsylvania. Dr. Donald Yealy, UPMC’s chair of emergency medicine, said during a virtual press conference that coronavirus cases are on the decline in the communities the system serves. And that UPMC, has what they need as far as needed basic supplies. According to the Sun Gazette, the decision goes against the current recommendation of the Department of Health Secretary who said the state has begun talking to hospitals about resuming some surgeries but “we’re not there yet. Dr Yealy said The COVID-19 caseload remains at levels that are low, consistent and manageable at the UPMC  facilities.

LOCYALSOCK SCHOOL BOARD TO MEET VIRTUALLY OVER BUDGET
The Loyalsock Township School board will meet tonight to go over the tentative 2020-21 school year budget.  The district will meet virtually and invite the public to attend.  Details on how to join the meeting on your computer will be posted at the districts website before the meeting at 7pm.  www.ltsd.k12.pa.us

COMMS WANT ALL RESIDENTS TO HAVE FOOD DURING EMERGENCY
At the Lycoming County Commissioners meeting yesterday, they discussed working with the Central Pennsylvania Food Bank so that families stay fed as unemployment claims in the state surge.  According to the Sun Gazette, Commissioner Rick Mirabito is seeking to hear from any other agencies or groups who can make sure community members have food.  Anyone who is facing food insecurities at this time is encouraged to call 211 and get help and advice from the Lycoming County United Way.

SPECIAL OLYMPICS CANCELLED FOR 2020
Special Olympics of Pennsylvania and Penn State University have announced that the 2020 Summer Games in State College that was to be in June, has been cancelled due to COVID-19 concerns.  The “Be a Fan” Torch Run is also cancelled according to the news release, but they say a “Virtual Summer Games” is being planned so that the spirit of the athletes and volunteers can still be felt.  Organizers at Penn State, where they’ve been holding the Special Olympics for 33 years say they are committed to a Summer Games in 2021.

SOIL REMEDIATION TODAY ON ROUTE 15 SOUTH
PennDOT will   be working on Route 15 southbound in Lewis Township, Lycoming County to replace soil and fix the shoulder after a tractor trailer accident from the weekend.  The wreck occurred at around 2am and blocked traffic and causing a detour through steam valley to trout run last Saturday morning.  Crews will be at  mile marker 144, today between 7:00 AM and 5:00 PM, weather permitting. Motorists should expect the left lane to be closed while the work is being completed.

Sports

NFL
The New England Patriots have agreed to trade Rob Gronkowski to the Buccaneers in a deal that reunites the retired tight end with Tom Brady in Tampa Bay. Gronkowski’s agent, said yesterday on SportsCenter that the five-time Pro Bowler has been feeling great physically since he retired from football nearly 13 months ago.

The Los Angeles Chargers on Tuesday became the latest NFL team to reveal new uniforms this offseason. The look includes a signature powder blue, gold and white color scheme. The design features a simplified bolt on the jersey and pants, and numbers have been added to helmets

NBA
Milwaukee Bucks guard George Hill says his wife’s 85-year-old grandmother recently battled the coronavirus and beat it. Hill has been in San Antonio during the NBA’s pandemic-imposed hiatus.

 

Without any enforceable restrictions against large gatherings in place in the state over the coronavirus pandemic, Park Jefferson International Speedway — a dirt track in North Sioux City, South Dakota — is planning to hold the Open Wheel Nationals on Saturday with ticket sales capped at 700 for a track with a seating capacity of 4,000.

 

BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS APRIL 21, 2020

WOLF ANNOUNCES PLANS TO OPEN THE PA ECONOMY
Governor Tom Wolf announced yesterday that May 8th will be the target date for a reopening of businesses in Pennsylvania. He said that the state has made sufficient progress against COVID-19 and in addition to allowing curb side liquor sales this week, he will allow more building construction which using social distancing guidelines as well as car sales online.  The Pennsylvania Department of Health reported 950 new people testing positive for the virus, bringing the statewide total to more than 33,200.  According to the Sun Gazette, this is the first time the new cases reported have been fewer than 1,000 since April 1st signifying that the pandemic may be easing.  The death toll in the commonwealth went up yesterday by 92 for a total of 1,204.  Lycoming County has reported it’s first death from the coronavirus with 40 cases reported.

SOME ELECTRICITY CUSTOMERS MAY BE ELIGIBLE FOR ASSISTANCE
As a result of the economic difficulties many area utility customers face during the covid-19 pandemic, STEP Utilities Assistance will broaden eligibility requirements for PPL customers using different fuel sources for heat and increasing the maximum allowable household income for those who receive assistance.  Customers can make up to 250% of the federal poverty rate to be eligible for Operation HELP: an annual income of up to $43,100 for a family of two, and $65,500 for a family of four. Your options are listed on the STEP website, in the Housing Options section of www.stepcorp.org. These programs are possible due to partnerships with PPL and UGI.

CABIN FIRE BURNS IN RURAL LOCATION, FIREFIGHTERS STRUGGLE TO GET TO THE SCENE
No information has been released about the owner of a cabin located just off Gamble Run Road that was damaged Saturday morning from a chimney fire that burned out of control for about 45 minutes.  According to the Sun Gazette, volunteer firefighters were challenged with getting to the structure on Route 414 in bad road conditions after 6 inches of snow fell in the area Friday night.  Volunteers from Brown Township, Black Forest, Wellsboro, Liberty and Waterville were on the scene.  Fire officials say the two-story cabin was damaged but repairs can be made.

CAMP CADET 2020 SEASON CANCELLED
The Pennsylvania State police have announced they will be cancelling upcoming Camp Cadet youth camps traditionally held in the spring and summer due to the COVID-19 pandemic.  Colonel Robert Evanchick, commissioner of the state police said the decision has been made with everyone’s safety in mind and look forward to the programs in 2021.  Each year, state police volunteers coordinate youth camps for 27 weeks of sleep-away camps and day programs

MONTGOMERY BOROUGH IS 2ND AMENDMENT SANCTUARY
Montgomery Borough Council has adopted a unanimous resolution to support the Constitution and has approved Montgomery Borough as a  2nd Amendment Sanctuary.  During a recent Zoom teleconference, the council agreed on an ordinance that the borough will not spend money to enforce laws determined to be illegal and it affirms the support of  citizens’ Constitutional rights, including the right to bear arms.  According to the Sun Gazette, the activist group Gun Owners of America is advocating ordinances and resolutions throughout Pennsylvania.  Buffalo township has done the same in Union County and Bradford County has adopted a similar resolution at the county level .

MAP AVAILABLE OF COVID-19 CASES BY ZIP CODE
There’s a new color coded map put online by the Pennsylvania Department of Health showing the concentration of people who have tested positive for coronavirus cases in every ZIP code.  Users can click on the map and see the latest number of positive test results from people in each region along with the number of who tested negative. The map shows areas from the lowest to highest concentrations of the virus. The link to the map on the health department website is here

WASD SCHOOL BOARD WILL MEET ONLINE
The Williamsport Area School Board will meet tonight at 6pm online and the public is welcome to watch the live feed.  A district spokesperson told the Sun Gazette that information on how to connect to the meeting will be on the Williamsport Area School District website at wasd.org before the meeting.  Williamsport School board meetings  are usually the 1st and 3rd Tuesday of each month.

SPORTS
MLB
Former NY Yankee Alex Rodriguez and fiancé Jennifer Lopez are working with a finance company  to raise capital in an attempt to buy the NY Mets. Rodriguez and LopeZ have a combined worth of  $700 million.

Miami Marlins CEO Derek Jeter will indefinitely forego his $5 million salary during the coronavirus outbreak.  He also made an announcement that all members of his baseball ops will be paid through May 31st.

MLB Comissioner Rob Manfred said starting May 1st he will suspend  uniform employee contracts which will allow teams to lay off or cut the pay of major and minor league coaches, managers, fullt-time scouts and trainers.

NBA
The first two episodes of the Michael Jordan documentary series “Last Dance”  gave ESPN big ratings .  The series chronicles Jordan and the Chicago Bulls when  they went to their 6th NBA Championship in 8 years.  6.1 million viewers tuned in.

NFL
The New England Patriots will used their Thursday night “color rush” uniforms as their home uniform. It’s the first time in 20 years the team has changed the primary uniform.

The 51st World Series of Poker has been postponed due to the coronavirus pandemic. Organizers are now targeting this fall to hold te World Series of Poker which was slated to begin May 26 at the Rio All-Suite Hotel & Casino in Las Vegas.  In March,  Casinos in the state were to cease operations until at least April 30th.

BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS APRIL 20, 2020

COVID-19 DEATHS INCREASE AS PRIOR WEEK DATA IS COLLECTED
The Pennsylvania Department of Health has announced that as of yesterday as of midnight there are 1, 215 new cases of COVID-19 in the state bringing a statewide total of cases of 32, 284. According to the numbers that have just come in, there has been a significant increase in deaths reported, but these did not occur in the last 24 hours. Secretary of Health, Dr. Rachel Levine announced 356 new deaths for the commonwealth, bringing a statewide total to 1, 112, but the data about 148 of those cases represents the last 7 days. Lycoming county has 37 cases and no deaths at this time. Details about the positive cases and number of negative tests in Pennsylvania can be found at health.pa.gov

In order to keep the workforce in food production sites healthy from outbreaks of COVID-19, state agencies have made procedure recommendations for facilities to maintain operations as life-sustaining businesses. According to the Agriculture Secretary, Russell Redding, management and employees at food processing facilities should undergo daily wellness screening, and have protective equipment like masks and gloves provided, increase cleaning regimens, enforcing social distancing, staggering shifts and other mitigations. The complete list is available at agriculture.pa.gov/COVID

Curbside pickup may be available from some Fine Wine & Good Spirit stores in Pennsylvania starting today. The locations in the Loyal Plaza on E Third Street, on Hepburn Street in Williamsport, and E. Penn Street in Muncy. will take a limited number of orders by phone from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m and allow one order per call per day, with a limit of 6 bottles. A complete list of locations is listed online at www.lcb.pa.gov
After the announced last week that last night that wearing masks mandatory for public places including grocery stores, markets and pharmacies, some places will have free masks available for residents today. According to the Sun Gazette, Lilyana’s Clothing Store, at 428 Pine St., in downtown Williamsport will be distributing masks today beginning at 11 a.m. The owner of the store, Joseph Lyles bought 600 masks to distribute out of his store today to help residents comply with the order issued by the Governor.

There will be a drive-thru corona-virus testing site available starting today at the Mohegan Sun Arena at Casey Plaza in Wilkes-Barre for emergency and health workers and older commonwealth residents with symptoms, state officials announced Saturday. According to Pennsylvania Emergency Management Agency of PEMA, registration will be required, but patients won’t need a doctor’s prescription. In response to an increase of cases of coronavirus in Luzerne County, the PA Department of Health, will begin testing first responders and health care workers who have symptoms of COVID-19, and Tuesday, the site will test northeastern Pennsylvania residents over age 65 with symptoms. They say results should be available in two to three business days, and patients will receive an email to log on to the registration site and access their results. Registration information here.

Keystone Central School District Superintendent Jacquelyn Martin, in an email released yesterday, announced that commencement ceremonies for seniors at Central Mountain and Bucktail High Schools, are postponed until August. The decision was made after much deliberation, plus out of an abundance of caution to protect the safety of students and families during the pandemic.

Knoebels Amusement Park won top honors in the 34th annual National Amusement Park Historical Association’s Amusement Park (NAPHA) and Attractions Survey. The Phoenix was named NAPHA members’ favorite wooden coaster for the 9th consecutive year and the park’s Hallo-Fun fest in October,was named NAPHA’s favorite post-summer season event. The park is delaying its opening for its 94th season indefinitely due to the COVID-19 crisis. NAPHA members are typically experienced riders who have visited countless amusement parks and have ridden a diverse assortment of roller coasters and other rides.The National Amusement Park Historical Association, founded in 1978 .

BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS APRIL 18, 2020

The Pennsylvania Department of Health reported yesterday, that there are 1,706 additional positive cases of COVID-19, bringing the statewide total to 29.441 in all 67 counties.  The department also reported 49 new deaths among positive cases, bringing the statewide total to 756. All people are either in isolation at home or being treated at the hospital. Lycoming County has 2 additional cases bringing the total to 32 positive cases with no deaths reported.

Governor Wolf was in a video press conference yesterday addressing some of the issues Pennsylvanians face, many having to deal with the reopening of the PA economy. He also addressed the influx of web traffic and phone calls to government services, saying that one of the things he will do, is increase staff as the days go on. For the 30 minute address by Governor Wolf, click here.

 

Motorists traveling Route 15 southbound are advised that both southbound lanes are closed from Steam Valley to Trout Run, due to a tractor-trailer crash.  Follow the posted detours and be alert of workers on the side, slow down, expect delays, and drive with caution.

BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS APRIL 17, 2020

LYCOMING COUNTY COVID-19 CASES STAYS LOW
There have been no coronavirus deaths reported in Lycoming County as of yesterday with 30 positive cases and 657 negative tests in the county. According to the Pennsylvania Department of Health, statewide – we’re at 27, 735 with 1, 245 new cases reported.  Sixty new deaths in the commonwealth brings that statewide total to 707.

DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH SEE THE CURVE FLATTENING
Department of Health Secretary, Dr. Rachel Levine announced yesterday during the daily video press conference, that the department has compiled and analyzed more detailed data about the positive and negative cases of COVID-19 by county and gender as well as working to gather a more complete picture of race and ethnicity. She says the results are positive and Pennsylvanian’s sacrifice is working to flatten the curve. Find more break out data regarding Pennsylvania cases of the coronavirus at health.pa.gov.

DOMESTIC DISPUTE REPORTED AFTER GUN FIRED IN HOME
A man surrendered to police without incident Thursday morning after a domestic disturbance at his Hepburn Township home where he allegedly fired a gun in the residence twice with his wife and children inside.  According to the Sun Gazette, police say 48 year old Matthew Zeigler was upset, displayed a handgun and fired it indoors, after which his wife, Christine Ziegler called 911.  Old Lycoming Township Police responded and Ziegler was arrested, later arraigned on charges or reckless endangerment and released on $15,000 bail.

SOME LIQUOR STORES TO OPEN TO HELP MEET DEMAND
The Pennsylvania Liquor Control Board has been given the OK by the Wolf Administration to open 106 closed liquor stores to process the overload of online orders – but they will not be open to the public.  According to the Sun Gazette, employees are getting call backs to train, and to prepare and clean the physical stores.  Before the COVID-19 crisis, online sales had been a small part of the state liquor system’s $2.7 billion in annual sales; but from April 1-8th, through online fulfillment centers in Pittsburgh and the Philadelphia suburbs, the agency was able to fill only about 9,600 orders worth $2.1 million.  Producers, breweries, wineries and distilleries, and privately owned beer distributorships, have been permitted to sell during the shutdown of nonessential businesses.

LOCAL SCHOOL JOINS NATIONAL TRIBUTE FOR STUDENTS, MEDICAL PERSONNEL
The Williamsport area school district is participating in the “Be the Light” campaign.  They will honor the class of 2020 and also support the nurses, doctors, and first responders on the front line of COVID-19 by lighting up the high school stadium tonight at 8:20 PM for 20 minutes.  Residents are urged to remain at home and not travel to stadium grounds but post pictures on social media sites like Twitter or on Facebook searching for “Williamsport Area High School”.  The stadium scoreboard will display 2020 in honor of the graduating class, with fourth down and 19 yards to go signifying COVID-19’s final down.  Schools across the nation are taking part in the “Be the Light” campaign

GEISINGER LEADERSHIP DONATES A PERCENTAGE OF THEIR SALARIES TO HELP EMPLOYEES FACING HARDSHIP
The CEO and President Dr. Ryu and his leadership team at Geisinger Medical Center have all taken a temporary reduction in their salaries to donate to a newly created employee emergency assistance fund.  According to a press release from the hospital system, 250 thousand dollars will be given a month to help employees facing financial hardship.  Information about access to the funds will be forthcoming.

Sports
NBA
Utah Jazz point guard Mike Conley won the NBA’s first HORSE competition beating Chicago Bulls guard Zach LaVine for the title last night. National Basketball Players Association and ESPN teamed up to create the single-elimination NBA HORSE Challenge to provide fans with entertainment. State Farm, the sponsor, donated more than $200,000 in support of coronavirus response efforts.

NFL
Denver Broncos Pro Bowl linebacker Von Miller has tested positive for the coronavirus Thursday.  Miller who has asthma,  is the second active NFL player known to have tested positive for the coronavirus.

Sources in the NFL say they are planning a plan B in case they can’t play a full season in full stadiums. A contingency plan could include a shortened season, and playing in empty stadiums.  The league is working to restructure the season with as much flexibility as possible.

NASCAR
Cup Series driver Bubba Wallace, the lone African American competing in one of NASCAR’s national series, said Kyle Larson was wrong to have used a racial slur during a virtual race, adding that he has spoken with Larson and believes he deserves a second chance.Larson issued an apology Monday.  His three primary sponsors in the Cup Series ended their relationships with Larson later Monday and, on Tuesday, Chip Ganassi Racing announced it had fired Larson, leaving him without a team to drive for.

GOLF

BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS APRIL 16, 2020

MASKING ORDER TAKES PLACE SUNDAY
Yesterday, Governor Tom Wolf and Secretary of Health Dr. Rachel Levine announced that starting 8 p.m., April 19, under a new directive,  shoppers and employees will be required to wear face coverings at retail stores, including supermarkets. Pennsylvania joins New York state where on Wednesday Gov. Andrew Cuomo ordered residents to wear face coverings in public settings such as public transit and grocery stores. The full order is available on Governor Wolf’s website. The Pennsylvania Department of Health announced new numbers of COVID-19 cases as of yesterday and they remain similar to yesterday.  There are 1, 145 new cases in Pennsylvania with a statewide total of 26, 490.  There are 63 new deaths bringing the statewide total to 647.

MAN GOES TO POLICE AND ADMITS TO HOMICIDE
A man from Shamokin was charged with criminal homicide after he walked into the police station this week and admitted to officers there that he killed his girlfriend.  According to the Daily Item, 38 year old Andre Stone, of South Market St went to the station Tuesday afternoon and showed a picture from his phone of 45 year old Dawn Latsha laying on the floor,  claiming he strangled her.  Northumberland County Coroner Jim Kelley officially confirmed the homicide Wednesday. Stone is set to appear for a preliminary arraignment in Shamokin April 21st.

TORNADO IN SOUTH CAROLINA PROMPTS POTENTIAL INMATE TRANSFER
A tornado has damaged a prison in Estill, SC and has prompted the potential transfer of nearly 1000 prisoners to the Lewisburg area while repairs are made. According to the Sun Gazette the transfer will be a major challenge as resources are already limited during the pandemic. There is no set date on the transfer yet

UNION COUNTY FOURTH OF JULY PARADE
Another favorite summer event will be scrapped due to the COVID-19 pandemic.  The Union County Veterans 4th of July Parade has been canceled for this Summer. One of the biggest parades in our region, normally takes place on the last Saturday of June in downtown Lewisburg. Committee President Terry Burke says the decision was made in the interest of safety for the community, participants and spectators. They’ll focus on planning their next parade, set for June 2021.

COVID CASES ANALYZED IN SENIOR AND LONG TERM CARE FACILITIES
Secretary of Health Dr. Rachel Levine pointed out that the health department has analyzed the percentages of those infected with the corona virus who live in long term care facilities in the state, finding more than 33 hundred cases in 297 facilities in 33 counties.  She says the Health Department is working to keep seniors safe.   A county by county breakdown of the is available at health.pa.gov.

TWO ARRESTED AFTER FLEEING FROM POLICE LAST WEEK
Officers who had stopped two men for a traffic violation Tuesday sought medical attention after one suspect blew a white powdery substance, feared to be Fentanyl, in the policeman’s face.  They fled the scene, but police identified William West as the driver Tavian McCall of Williamsport was also in the vehicle. McCall was arrested on a bike near his home this week.  He was arraigned Lycoming County Court and committed to prion in lieu of 85 thousand dollar bail. West was arrested in South Williamsport Wednesday and is in jail on a probation violation.

DRIVER OF OVERTURNED TRUCK IDENTIFIED
The driver of the truck carrying a load of applesauce who crashed on the Market Street Bridge Thursday, April 9 has been identified.  According to the Sun Gazette, 33 year old Tony Krause Jr, of Carbon County was exiting Interstate I-80 East when he clipped a concrete barrier flipping his rig on the driver’s side. An ambulance transported him to UPMC Williamsport where he was treated and later released.

TWO LOCAL STUDENTS GET PRESIDENTIAL SCHOLARSHIP
Two local students join others in Northeast PA and were awarded Presidential scholarships to Albright College for their outstanding academic records.  Elisa Dinicola, of Williamsport, a senior at Loyalsock Township Senior High School and Jessica Piergallini, of Lock Haven, a senior at Central Mountain High School as wellas seniors from Bradford and Tioga Counties will receive 15 thousand dollars per year. Students who are presidential scholars usually are ranked n the top 5% of their class and show a strong commitment to service.

Sports

NFL

Rams center Brian Allen, has tested positive for the coronavirus. A spokesperson confirmed he had light symptoms, but is feeling much better now.

Willie Davis, Legendary five time all pro for the green bay packers has died at age 85. He was hospitalized for nearly a month before succumbing to kidney failure on Wednesday.

MLB

Justin Verlander, starting pitcher for huston Astros,’ resumes throwing after groin surgery. Due to the delay of the start of the season, the starting pitcher has more time for rehabilitation.

 

NBA

The Chinese Basketball Association is following suit with the NBA as government tightens restrictions on travel by non citizen residents and large sports events. The season restart is now postponed until at least July.

Little League

Little League Baseball CEO Steve Keener, during an appearance on ESPN’s SportsCenter  last night, said that it will be “three or four weeks” until a decision is made on whether or not this year’s World Series will take place in South Williamsport.  The tournament is scheduled to begin on August 20th.

BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS APRIL 15, 2020

The 150th Lycoming County Fair has been postponed until 2021, President of the Lycoming County Fair, Rocky Reed, says it’s a tough decision – and they are less than 3 months out , the fair will have to face the likelihood of having to follow  state and federal guidelines .  Reed says he can’t predict  how any social distancing guidelines will be this summer so it’s better to keep the community safe.  Stay up to date with Lycoming County Fair plans for 2021 at the Lycoming County Fair Facebook page.

PA Department of Health Secretary Dr. Rachel Levine reported new numbers of COVID-19 cases in Pennsylvania.  As of yesterday at midnight there are 1,146 New cases of the coronavirus, bringing a statewide total to 25, 345.  There are 60 new deaths reported bringing that total in the commonwealth to 584.  The Pennsylvania Department of Health reported yesterday only one new case of COVID-19 was reported in Lycoming county for a total of 29 cases  and there are no deaths here. Dr Levine says that 108,286 PA patients have tested negative for the virus and that 40 percent of those testing positive are still in the 25-49 year old age group.  She says the Department is struggling to get an accurate picture of who is testing positive in the state for the virus because they find that data about race and ethnicity is missing from 60 percent of the reports submitted.  So they have enacted a requirement so they can collect the data from labs and medical providers.   All the numbers are compiled on the PA Department of Health website at health.pa.gov.

The Williamsport Regional Airport will receive help through the Corona Virus Aid, Relief and Economic Security – or CARES Act Airport Grant Program to replace lost revenue from a decline in airport business.  According to the Sun Gazette, Airport Executive Director Richard Howell said that $17.9 million in federal money is part of a large sum shared between 63 airports.  Howell said there will a discussion with the Williamsport Municipal Airport Authority on how to use the approved funding.

There will be more buses weekdays on the River Valley Transit Route to reduce overcrowding.  According to a news release by the transportation company, 2 more buses will be added between 10am and 2pm and that Additional timepoints have been added going both East and West departing from the Trade & Transit Center.  Bus operators have been given masks, gloves and cleaning agents Riders are asked to only use bus service to go to work, medical appointments, grocery stores and other essential trips. Passengers are not required to purchase fare or passes to ride River Valley Transit buses Get details at rideRVT.com

A Limestone Township man has been charged with terroristic threats after threatening to kill his girlfriend in their 430 Shadle Road home on April 9th.  According to the Sun Gazette, court papers say state troopers arrived on the scene after 34 year old Christopher Ungard allegedly punched the woman in the forehead causing a laceration that required stitches.  UNgard who now lives in Linden  was arraigned and released on 15 thousand dollars bail.

The current State police training class of about 100 cadets will continue their education at home after an enlisted staff member at the Hershey facility tested positive for COVID-19 and the facility will be closed for two weeks.  All activities and classes  at the facility have been suspended since March.  The Bureau of Training and Education for the state police is working to adjust instruction so that the current class can graduate by July 24 as scheduled.  Get details at psp.pa.gov.

Sports
NHL
The NHL won’t start back up this month, extending its self quarantine recommendation for players and staff and coaches through April 30.

MLB
Hank Steinbrenner the co-owner of the New York Yankees, has died after a long battle with an undisclosed illness. He was 63 Hank and Hal Steinbrenner were the two sons of the late George Steinbrenner who was with the team in the late 90s and 2000s

MLS
The major league soccer season is being delayed even longer and the season will likely have to be shortened. Official say starting back up in mid-May is unlikely

BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS APRIL 14, 2020

LOWER COVID-19 NUMBERS TO START THE WEEK
The Secretary of the PA Department of Health, Dr. Rachel Levine, released the new COVID-19 numbers affecting Pennsylvania as of midnight Monday.  There are 1,366 new cases in the commonwealth bringing the statewide total to 24,199.  There were 17 new deaths bringing that total to 524. Twenty-eight cases have been reported in Lycoming County, but no deaths

GOVERNOR SPELLS OUT A PLAN TO MOVE ON FROM PANDEMIC
Last evening, Governor Wolf also presented a video broadcast addressing Pennsylvanians and giving an update on the progress the state has made in the battle against COVID-19 and our plan for moving forward.  He suggested we are in the first of 3 phases that first buys time for our hospitals so they don’t become overwhelmed by patients, second, the actual transition from staying home to returning to work and school and then the new normal.  Wolf says our efforts through this first stage  are helping us transition faster.  The full address can be found on the Pennsylvania Department of Health‘s Facebook Page

ARMED ROBBER CHARGED IN MUNCY CREEK INCIDENT
An investigation by State police has led to the arrest of a Williamsport man who committed armed robbery March 18th at a Muncy Creek business.  According to the Sun Gazette, court records say, 28 year old Steven James Martin of  Carpenter St, allegedly took a semi-automatic weapon into Sam’s Place Lottery and Tobacco in Muncy Creek and demanded money, getting away with over $3,500.  Police say he was wearing a mask and goggles during the incident but they gathered evidence from surveillance cameras, and witness interviews. Martin was charged with robbery, theft by unlawful taking or disposition, receiving stolen property, terroristic threats, possessing instruments of crime and simple assault.

WILLIAMSPORT LIBRARY TO CANCEL FINES FOR OVERDUE MATERIALS
The James V Brown Library building in Williamsport is closed, so, they are removing restrictions on cards for community members with fines and fees for the duration of the closure.  Library staff members said Monday that loaned materials are due when the building opens back up.  If community members need to renew their card, they can use the contact form on the website.  The library has also begun a virtual book club which will be this Thursday either online or by telephone.  Go online to Jvbrown.edu for more information.

GOVERNORS JOIN TO FIND ANSWERS TOGETHER AS WE NAVIGATE THE PANDEMIC
Governor Wolf yesterday joined the leaders of nearby states in a conference call yesterday, to form a committee to help tackle how they will reopen businesses, schools, and other things that have been shuttered by the coronavirus pandemic. According to the Sun Gazette, Governor Wolf talked together with Gov. Andrew Cuomo  of New York, Gov. Phil Murphy of New Jersey, Gov. Ned Lamont of Connecticut, Gov. John Carney  of Delaware, and Gov. Gina Raimondo of Rhode Island to discuss the steps that will be taken. Each state will nominate a representative from the health sector, an economic official, and the governors’ chiefs of staff for the working group. Pennsylvania’s  group will include Dr. Rachel Levine, Department of Community and Economic Development Secretary Dennis Davin, and Governor Wolf’s  chief of staff, Mike Brunelle.

COUNTIES WANT MAIL-IN VOTING
There is a movement among Pennsylvania county leaders to transition the June 2nd Primary election to one conducted entirely by mail, so that the coronavirus does not spread among poll workers or communities.  Rich Fitzgerald, Executive from Pennsylvania’s second most populous county, Allegheny, says he wants the governor to expand an emergency declaration to allow the county to mail ballots to every registered voter.  Officials in heavily populated suburban Philadelphia counties, Montgomery and Chester, are also backing the idea of an all-mail election, while Philadelphia is already making preparations for it.  Democrats pressed for a provision in legislation last month to require counties to send mail-in ballot applications to every voter, but it lacked support in the Republican-controlled Legislature and didn’t pass.

ALLENWOOD STAFF MEMBER TESTS POSITIVE FOR THE VIRUS
The Bureau of Prisons has announced that one staff member at the Federal Correction Institute at Allenwood has tested positive for the coronavirus.  According to the Daily item, Union officials continue to be concerned about the safety of the staff as more diagnosis are reported. The Bureau of Prisons report on their website yesterday that 13 federal inmates have died from COVID-19 and 388 federal inmates and 201 staff have tested positive for the disease nationwide.The PA Department of Helathy reported one Pennsylvania inmate died due to the virus at SCI Phoenix in Montgomery County.

Sports
NBA
Jacqueline Cruz-Towns, the mother of Minnesota Timberwolves star Karl-Anthony Towns, has died due to complications from the coronavirus.  Towns posted an emotional video to his Instagram page on March 25, revealing that his mother was in a medically induced coma and had been placed on a ventilator due to the virus.

NFL
Carolina Panthers star Christian McCaffrey is signing a four-year extension, averaging $16 million per year, making him the highest-paid running back in NFL history.

WWE
Florida, Orange County Mayor Jerry Demings is allowing the WWE to resume live television shows from its Orlando training facility and Full Sail University in Winter Park after being deemed an essential business. The decision, outlined in an April 9 memo from Gov. Ron DeSantis’ office, could open the door for other sports to resume in the state.

NASCAR
NASCAR driver Kyle Larson has been suspended without pay by Chip Ganassi Racing after saying the N-word during an iRacing tournament Sunday night.  He’s also been suspended indefinitely by NASCAR.  Larson tweeted an apology and will have to complete a sensitivity training course before he can be reinstated.

BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS APRIL 13, 2020

ONE CORONAVIRUS DEATH REPORTED IN TIOGA COUNTY
As of midnight Sunday morning The Pennsylvania Department of Health confirmed 1,178 new cases of the coronavirus which brings the state wide total to 22, 833 cases.  Thirteen more deaths were reported yesterday, making 507 total deaths in Pennsylvania.  One death has now been reported in Tioga County where there are 13 cases.  Lycoming County now reports 23 cases, Northumberland 37, Union 19 and Clinton 8.

PA HOUSE TO VOTE ON ALLOWING MORE BUSINESS TO OPEN
The Pennsylvania State House will vote Tuesday to consider legislation that would allow more businesses to open during the coronavirus pandemic.  Lawmakers said the proposal will direct Democratic Gov. Tom Wolf to come up with a system based on guidance for business from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The new rules would have to follow guidelines set up by the U.S. Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency. In addition the bill could allow notaries to employ technology rather than perform their duties in person during the COVID-19 outbreak. It also would permit municipal governments to meet electronically.

STATE DEPARTMENT PORTAL FOR MANUFACTURERS TO SELL MEDICAL SUPPLIES
The Commonwealth of Pennsylvania Critical Medical Supplies Procurement Portal is now available through the Department of Health website at spportal.dot.pa.gov.  Manufacturers, distributors and other suppliers can use the portal to inform the state of supplies available for purchase and to quickly and efficiently procure supplies  for medical facilities across Pennsylvania.   A link to the specific items needed including lab and diagnostic supplies and personal protective equipment is available here.

MU TO HELP STUDENTS AFFECTED BY COVID-19
The Mansfield Foundation has set up a Student Relief Fund for students impacted by unforeseen financial needs due to COVID-19.  The newly launched effort is for currently enrolled students who are unable to meet expenses whether it’s transportation costs, access to technology , access to safe housing or food insecurity.  Students who need emergency assistance can go to the Mansfield University Financial Aid website at esd.mansfield.edu

MAN ARRESTED FOR ASSAULT OF TROOPER
A Williamsport man who allegedly assaulted a state trooper last week after he was found nude and under the influence in Lycoming County was charged with felony assault in Lycoming County Court.  According to the Sun Gazette, state police were called when 27 year old Dillon Calvin, was reported running around naked on Lake Road in Gamble Township.  Troopers detained Dillon who police say threatened the troopers and spit on them.  He is now in Lycoming County Prison in lieu of $35,000 bail. A preliminary hearing is set for today in Montoursville .

QUALIFIED NON-VIOLENT PRISONERS TO BE RELEASED THIS WEEK
Qualifying Prison inmates in in the Commonwealth, may get an early release.   Governor Wolf  issued an executive order Friday in order to mitigate the spread of coronavirus in Pennsylvania prisons by allowing certain prisoners an early release if they are close to the end of their sentence and lack violent or drug related charges. As many as 1500-1800 prisoners could qualify for a conditional supervised release, and according to the Governor’s office releases to halfway houses or home confinement,  is expected to begin as soon as Tuesday.

LOCAL STORE TO LIMIT CUSTOMERS
GIANT Food stores in Carlisle announced in a press release Saturday that the chain will officially limit the number of customers who may be in the store at one time starting today.  The number of customers allowed in each store varies by location.  They also request that only one customer per household  come to the store to promote a safer in-store environment during the COVID-19 pandemic.  Officials from Giant say a team member will be at the entrance to monitor shopper flow and when the store is at capacity, a line will form with a one entrance – one exit protocol, one-way aisles and register queuing in all stores.

FEDERAL UNEMPLOYMENT BENEFITS SHOULD START THIS WEEK
The State Labor Department started issuing expanded federal unemployment compensation payments Friday, providing an extra $600 per week for self-employed, independent contractors and gig workers eligible for benefits.  Those eligible who filed bi-weekly claims for the week ending April 4th, should see the payments this week.  The measure signed by Governor Tom Wolf waives the job search and work registration requirements and also waives the waiting period for filing an unemployment claim.

Sports

NFL
New Orleans Saints quarterback Drew Brees has agreed to join NBC Sports as a football analyst when he is done playing, the New York Post reported Friday.  Brees plans to play the 2020 season after signing a two-year, $50 million contract extension with the Saints last month.

NBA
Chicago Bulls guard Zach LaVine shut out Boston Celtics legend Paul Pierce in the NBA’s first HORSE Challenge on ESPN.  Also playing  were Detroit Pistons All-Star Chauncey Billups, Mike Conley of the Utah Jazz and Allie Quigley of the WNBA’s Chicago Sky. The semifinals and championship game will be televised at 9 p.m. ET Thursday on ESPN. State Farm, the title sponsor, will donate more than $200,000 in support of coronavirus response efforts.

Anthony Causi, a highly skilled and popular sports photographer for The New York Post who covered the city’s teams for 25 years, died Sunday from the coronavirus. He was 48.

Horse tracks are still operating in Florida, California, Arkansas and Oklahoma but no fans are allowed to attend the races.  The races are being streamed online.  All jockeys have completed a 14 day quarantine and are screened by medical personnel on the way to and from the track.

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