BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS AUGUST 24, 2020

Friday the PIAA’s board of directors voted that they were going to move ahead with high school sports. According to Pennlive, even though Governor Wolf’s recommendation was to hold off until 2021, the board concluded with a vote allowing the start of athletics. In a press release the board stated that all individuals involved in the athletic community have a role in the health and wellness of all participants as the go forward safely with the season.

A Williamsport man is in jail and facing charges after he threatened a man and his daughter on bicycles with a handgun while he was driving a car near them on August 16^th. According to the North Central PA dot com, State Troopers say Ryan J. Kranz, was witnessed first brandishing a handgun and then driving away at a high rate of speed on Russell Avenue near Sheridan Street. Police later located Krantz at his home where neighbors say he was acting erratically and also attempting to fire the handgun which didn’t discharge. Police said the weapon was an air pistol but found other firearms inside the home. Krantz had a mental health evalulation at UPMC and was then booked for aggravated felony assault and other assault charges.

The PA Department of Health said there are 8 new cases of COVID-19 in Lycoming County bringing the county total to 479. As of August 22^nd there are 796 new positive cases reported but the data shows an 80 percent recovery rate so far of the current cases as 80 percent. 18 new deaths were reported for a statewide total of 7.576 since the pandemic began.

ESPN and Little League International announced an eight-year media rights extension – effective 2023 through 2030 – in which ESPN will produce and televise more live Little League events than ever as the exclusive global media rights holder of Little League Baseball and Little League Softball. ESPN platforms will exclusively carry more than 300 Little League live events annually, including games from every baseball and softball World Series tournament as part of the previously announced expansion of the event from 16 to 20 teams.

A 11 year old boy from Montoursville was admitted to the trauma unit at the Geisinger medical center in Danville Thursday due to the injuries he sustained when he was struck by a pickup truck. According to the Sun Gazette Loyalsock police say the truck hit the boy on the 700 block of north Loyalsock Ave around 1:40 after he ran in front of it while it was entering a parking lot. According to the boy’s father he in stable condition. Police did not release the identity of the victim.

There are suspected swastika-like designs that have been spray painted in Loyalsock Township which has begun an investigation by Pennsylvania State Police in Montoursville. According to North Central PA dot com, several mailboxes were painted as well as areas of the roadway and was suspected to have taken place on August 20th. If you have any information please call Montoursville state police

Voters in Lycoming County can expect Election Day to take place on Tuesday Nov. 3 with of the county’s voting precincts open for in-person voting. According to Forest Lehman Director of Elections and Registration in Lycoming County said that those interested casting an absentee or mail-in ballot, can apply online or at Lycoming County Voter Services, on W. Third St. in Williamsport. But they should not expect to receive a ballot until either late September or early October – when they can then drop off ballots at the voter services office. The online application process is available HERE.

Penn State has summarily suspended Pi Kappa Alpha at University Park for hosting a large social gathering on Aug. 22 in violation of Penn State’s expectations. Penn State’s monitors observed approximately 70 students at a party, including those who were not residents of the house. Penn State also has suspended those chapter executives who refused to allow monitors to check the premises. The University is proceeding with conduct investigations to determine next steps against the chapter and its’ members. Penn State required all members of the Pi Kappa Alpha house to be tested yesterday to determine if there’s been exposure to COVID-19 as well as encouraging other students who may have attended to be tested as well.

SPORTS
MLB
The Cleveland Indians and the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim will play in the 2021 edition of the Little League Classsic at Bowman Field. According to officials at Little League the game is scheduled for Aug. 22 and will air nationally on ESPN. It will be the first appearance in Williamsport for both teams since the Classic began in 2017 with Mike Trout making an appearance here for the game. This year’s edition of the Classic, featuring the Red Sox and Orioles, was canceled because of the COVID-19 pandemic.

National bumped the Marlins 9-3, Orioles over the Red Sox 5-4, Tiger beat the Indians 7-4, Rays over the Blue Jays 5-4, Pirates over the Brewers 5-4, Twins beat the Royals 5-4, Cardinals beat the Reds 6-2, Cubs beat the White Sox 2-1, Padres over the Astros 5-3, Dodgers routed the Rockies 11-3, A’s beat the Angels 5-4, Giants over the Diamondbacks 6-1, Mariners beat the Rangers 4-1, Phillies over the Braves 5-4, Yankees and Mets were postponed

NBA
Celtics beat the 76ers 110-106 winning that series 4-nothing, Raptors beat the Nets 150 to 122 in Game 4 Toronto winning their series as well, in the West Mavericks over the Clippers 135 to 133 ub Game 4 their series tied up 2-2, and Jazz beat the Nuggets 129 to 127 in Game 4 with Utah leading the series 3-1

In the second round of the NHL
In the East – Bruins beat Lightning 3-2 in Game 1, Boston leads, Golden Knights over the Canucks 5-nothing in the West game one of round 2, with Vegas leading.
The Islanders play the Flyers tonight at 7 PM for the East and Stars and Avalanche play game 2 at 9:45 PM Dallas leads that series 1-nothing

NASCAR in a doubleheader at Dover
Saturday, Denny Hamlin got the checkered flag followed by Martin Truex, Jr., followed by Eric Almirola, Kevin Harvick and Chase Elliot. Sunday Kevin Harvick came in first followed by Martin Truex, Jr., Jimmie Johnson, William Byron and Alex Bowman.

BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS AUGUST 23, 2020

Jersey Shore Teacher Facing Civil Suit

A former jersey shore area middle school teacher is facing a civil lawsuit for allegedly sexually assaulting one of her students. The alleged victim is now 19 years old, and he along with his parents and legal guardians filed the civil lawsuit against Alexandra Kluzany along with 2 others in the school district. According to the sun gazette the civil complaint states that kulzany was reprimanded for paying to much attention to the boy, and was reported by other teachers in the administration. No notice was ever received by the parents. Charges are being delayed due to the corona virus but if convicted, Kluzany will be facing many charges stemming from statutory rape and corruption of a minor.

Snyder County Welcomes New ADA

Snyder County District Attorney Mike Piecuch has recently announced the hiring of his new assistant Scott Ziegler to help with the counties case load. According to Media outlets Ziegler got his bachelor degree at wilkes university before working as an associate for a local law firm. Piecuch said to outlets that the hiring was essential, and that the new ADA will be a tremendous asset. You can expect Ziegler to be involved in all phases of all cases from here on out.

Assault Occurrence/Failed Bank Stick-Up

An assault occurred on the 3700 Block of Lycoming creek road around 9:30 on Sunday. According to the sun gazette when police arrived on scene there were 25 people arguing in the street with one injured man with a large laceration on his face. There was a suspect who fled, reportedly being white with tattoos on one of his arms and wearing a yellow shirt. He was last seen running to a trailer park in the area. In other news Timothy Maddox, 31 of Montoursville was recently arrested for an attempted bank robbery.Maddox drove up to the M and T bank window at 450 broad st where he demanded 500,000 dollars to be given to him. After he fled the scene Maddox was arrested shortly after.

Protester Files Lawsuit Against County

A valley man media outlets say is familiar with protesting in the area is suing the borough of Mifflinburg over the flag-burning ordinaces that are in place. According to PennLive, activist Gene Stilp filed suit in U.S. Middle District Court to get a preliminary injunction that could allow him to hold a flag buring event. Police borough police officially warned Stilp after he ignited a Trump protest flag July 24 on public grounds. Stilp told media outlets the written warning violates his right to freedom of expression. He has also sued Lewisburg, Middleburg, and Harrisburg over their ordinances.

BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS AUGUST 22, 2020

Bellefonte Board Members Discuss Mask Mandate

The Bellefonte borough council discussed plans for mitigation efforts at Monday’s board meeting, following in state college’s footsteps. While they admire state college’s plans, according to the sun gazette some of the board members don’t want a carbon copy and plan to tweak a few things to tailor it for Bellefonte. The next board meeting is about 2 weeks away, and residents can expect a more fleshed out agenda by then at the next board meeting.

PIAA Vote to Restart Athletics

Yesterday’s meeting with the PIAA board of directors resulted in a vote of 25 to 5 that teams in Pennsylvania can officially begin practice for fall sports on Monday. According to the sun gazette the board of directors agreed that athletics decisions should be made locally, so that each school can decide whether to proceed or which sports to sponsor. In a statement by Governor Wolf this week he maintains his recommendation that school sports should wait in Pennsylvania until 2021, however the Board of Directors the PI AA said That with local adherence to developed school health and safety plans and utilizing the PI AAA return to competition guidelines, fall Sports can continue safely. First scrimmage dates for football will be September 5 for and the first contest for football will be September 11.

Route 199 Construction

A 4 year project on route 199 will be starting in September. The 16.4 million dollar project will be completed by kriger construction and will include new curbing, ADA accomadaions at intersections, improved drainage, new paving and line upgrades. A virtual public meeting will be held this Thursday at 5 pm. Click here for more information on their website.

11 Year Old Boy Hit by Truck

A 11 year old boy from Montoursville has been admitted to the trauma unit at the Geisinger medical center in Danville due to the injuries he sustained when he was struck by a pickup truck. According to the sun gazette Police chief Jeffery Gyurina said the truck hit the boy on the 700 block of north loyal sock Ave around 1:40 pm after he ran in front of it while it was entering a Lowe’s parking lot, and that the father told him that the boy is in stable condition. The identities of the child and the driver have not been released.

Mother Charged With 3 Felonies

A Williamsport mother is being charged with 3 felonies after letting her kids, ages 7 to 11, ingest controlled substances. According to the sun gazette Patrolman Robert Mausteller said in an affidavit that Rebecca Rittman, 31, of 2117 Good Alley were staying at 521 Factory road in Hepburn township when she allowed her children to smoke marijuana. The investigation was started when the county children and youth department received a tip about the offense. When investigators spoke with the children one of them stated “mom makes me do it, but I don’t like it.” She is currently free on $50,000 bail, and is scheduled to a hearing with district judge William Solomon on September 2nd.

Sports

NFL

Washington coach Ron Rivera has been diagnosed with cancer. He revealed this to his team Thursday, stating it was in the early stages and very treatable. As of now, nothing changes, and he will continue coaching.

MLB

The Scores for Fridays games are in! Braves beat Phillies 11 to 2, Padres over Astros 4 to 3, Athletics over Angels, 5 to 3, Red Sox over Orioles 8 to 5, Dodgers over Rockies 5 to 1 and Giants over Diamond backs 6 to 2.

BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS AUGUST 21, 2020

AIRLINE ANNOUNCES SUSPENSION OF FLIGHTS IN OCTOBER THRU NOVEMBER
Following a recent announcement about direct flights to Charlotte North Carolina from Williamsport Regional Airport, American Airlines has adjusted its’ schedule for the fall and will suspend flights starting in October from 15 markets including Williamsport. According to a press release from the Airline, the federal CARES Act funding expires and the company is making cuts in low demand areas. The changes are only official for the October schedule period which runs until November 3^rd.

COLLEGE CAMPUSES DEALING WITH COVID
COVID-19 is already reaching Central PA campuses. Bucknell and Bloomsburg Universities have both announced a handful of students who have tested positive for the coronavirus. According to the Daily Item, out of two Bucknell students tested, one had two negative and third positive test. At Bloomsburg, nine more students had tested positive for the virus raising the total to 10. Bucknell launched a COVID-19 case tracker available publicly at www.bucknell.edu/life-bucknell/fall-reopening/covid-19-dashboard. Bloomsburg announced the school bookstore will be closed until Monday with a temporary location set up offsite for pickup of books and materials

DRUG RAID ULTIMATELY RESULTS IN 30 ARRESTS; MORE EXPECTED
Lycoming County DA Ryan Gardner held a press conference yesterday addressing the recent arrests in the city that ultimately yielded more than 30 drug, firearm and gang-related arrests in Williamsport. According to the Sun Gazette, the DA said that Williamsport is home to four known gangs that have taken a foothold in the city who are in the business of distributing illegal narcotics in Lycoming County. Gardner said after the Thirty people were arrested as a result of the NEU warrants, and three out of six federal warrants were served, the Lycoming County Narcotics Unit still has warrants for 30 more suspects in gang and drug activity in the city.

COMCAST ANNOUNCES FUNDING HELP FOR SCHOOLS
Comcast has begun a new program for teachers in their system thanking htem with help to pay for their services. Any faculty, staff or school administrators who are eligible can receive a 150 dollar Visa gift card that will pay for two months of an internet package with the company. Comcast’s effort to help new customers will continue until December 31^st as part of their Internet Essentials Partnership program.

Lycoming County reports one new case of the coronavirus with 165 people testing negative as of yesterday according to the Pennsylvania Department of Health. There is a concern in Union County where as of yesterday, the cases count has jumped by 22 to 327. The Federal Bureau of Prisons website says that the penitentiary in Lewisburg now has a cumulative total of 85 positive COVID-19 cases among inmates, with 33 being active cases and 52 recovered cases and seven staff members with active positive COVID-19 cases. Inmates there have been quarantined in their cells. Congressman Fred Keller who has been on the forefront of mitigating COVID-19 spread in state prison system since the the beginning, launched a bipartisan Bureau of Prisons Reform Caucus.

There was a car fire reported early Tuesday in Loyalsock Township and state police are investigating. According to the Sun Gazette, local fire officials said the truck area of a car that was parked on Warren Avenue and at around 4:15am had a heavy fire in the trunk area. Police did not identify the vehicle or property owner, the paper says, according to social media messages, a Williamsport sports journalist said the car is his and alleges the fire was a bombing attempt. The car sustained heavy fire damage but the blaze was extinguished by city and local firefighter quickly. The state police investigation in progress will determine whether a crime was committed.

President Trump delivered a campaign speech in Lackawanna County yesterday at about 3:30 after arriving from Wilkes-Barre/Scranton International in his motorcade. The president criticized Former Vice president Joe Biden who was born in Scranton, but also promoted his own economic programs and plans for a second term. The president spoke for about an hour at Mariotti Building Products.

SPORTS
NBA heat beat the Pacers 109-100 Miami leading the series 2-nothing, Bucks over Magic 111-96, series tied up 1-1, in the west Rockets beat Thunder 111-98, Houston leads the series 2-nothing, Lakers beat the Trailblazers 111-88, the series tied up1-1

MLB
Rays thumped the Yankees 10-5, Blue Jays beat the Phillies 3-2 in Game 1 of a doubleheader make up from July 31, Game 2 – Blue Jays edged the Phillies 9-8, White Sox blanked the Tigers 9-nothing, Astros over the Rockies 10-8, Indians blanked the Pirates 2-nothing, Twins over the Brewers 7-1, Dodgers beat the Mariners 6-1, Red Sox over the Orioles 7-1, Padres edged the Rangers 8-7, Cardinals over the Reds 5-4, A’s beat the Diamondbacks 5-1, Giants over the Angels 10-5, and the Mets and Marlins were postponed due to illness.

NHL
New York Islanders win their series beating the Capitals last night 4-nothing in the East 1^st round Game 5. In the West 1st round Game 6 – Stars beat the flames 7-3 with Dallas winning the series 4-2
Game 6 tonight at 7pm between the Flyers in the Canadians and the Blues in the Canucks play their Game 6 tonight at 9:45 PM

In NASCAR Austin Dillon has been cleared to race in Dover this weekend after he tested negative twice for the coronavirus Dylan is qualified for the NASCAR playoffs this year after winning at Texas last month

BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS AUGUST 20, 2020

DRUG RAID IN WILLIAMSPORT WEDNESDAY
More than 20 people were arrested and charged yesterday after a pre-planned raid throughout the city of Williamsport by state police and the sheriff’s department to serve arrest warrants filed by the United State Attorney’s Office and the Lycoming County Narcotics Enforcement Unit, according to the county DA Ryan Gardner. According to the Sun Gazette, the city’s special response team participated in areas where there was potential for violence and that by the afternoon, there were arrests involving, felony firearm and drug charges, with three apprehended on federal warrants.

FARM SHOW TO BE VIRTUAL IN 2021
Officials from the 2021 Pennsylvania Farm Show have announced that the state’s agriculture event will be held virtually this year in order to mitigate against COVID-19. In an analogy comparing the break from the traditional in-person event to a fallow field, Agriculture Secretary Russell Redding said a virtual celebration this year is the way to prepare for a productive future. According to a press release from the Department of Agriculture, the 2021 theme is “Cultivating Tomorrow” and virtual events will be focused on education and awareness with more details being announced in the coming weeks.

MORE FARM SHOW
Citing the need to focus on the strength and innovation of agriculture in Pennsylvania, amid the COVID-19 pandemic, Agriculture Secretary Russell Redding said in a press release yesterday, that the 2021 Farm Show will be a virtual event to help mitigate the spread of the coronavirus. In a social media post yesterday, The Pennsylvania Farm Show announced the change of traditional competition and educational events to online only with details promised in the coming weeks to clarify the process they will follow. A link to the farm show website for updates to the virtual event plans is at farmshow.pa.gov.

NURSING HOME WILL GET HELP FROM NATIONAL GUARD
The National Guard, and other outside agencies are helping a Milton nursing home contain an outbreak of COVID-19. Details are emerging about the cases at Milton Nursing and Rehabilitation Center in which the Wolf Adminstration said the link to the outbreak was discovered August 3^rd. According to the Daily Item, the attorney for Milton Nursing & Rehab’s owner, Bedrock Care of New York, said 16 residents died at the facility since the outbreak began and according to the state, 109 cases have been reported among residents and staff. Work by the state began the day after the outbreak was discovered with Geisinger providing assistance in the state’s Regional Response Health Collaboration Program working this month to provide assistance and guidance for best practices at the Milton facility.

EXPECT DELAYS ON THE INTERSTATTE WHILE PRESIDENT TRUMP VISITS THE COMMONWEALTH
President Donald Trump visits the commonwealth today . According to the York Daily Record, Air Force One will land at 2:30 p.m. at Wilkes-Barre/Scranton International Airport, and the president will travel to Mariotti Building Products in Old Forge, close to Scranton, Joe Biden’s hometown and speak at 3pm. There will be a replay of the talk online tonight at 8pm with a link to that HERE . This will be the president’s 38th visit to Pennsylvania since announcing his candidacy during the 2016 election. State police are warning drivers to expect roadblocks and closures on Interstate 81 north and south as well as near the airport and Moosic exits.

There are four new cases of the coronavirus in Lycoming County for a total of 456 positive cases to date, and three people still hospitalized from the virus here. According ot the PA Department of Health yesterday there were 24 new deaths reported for a statewide total of 7,523 total. As of yesterday there are 570 additional positive cases of COVID-19 in the commonwealth for a total of 126,149

In order to protect its private ownership status a state-owned street in Montoursville will close for the weekend. The street utilized by PennDOT) is a private street that adjoins its District 3-0 district office property in Montoursville , which connects Broad Street and Jordan Avenue. This area will be closed from 4pm this Friday until 7am Monday, August 23. This is an annual closure for the unnamed street.

All Pennsylvania Heartland Athletic Conference schools are waiting for a possible okay from the PIAA tomorrow to be able to play league games only for the fall. Officials from the PHAC P say the conference voted unanimously to play the amended in-conference schedule for fall sports during Wednesday’s meeting. Adjustments were made to the schedule to allow for conference divisional games and crossover games at the end of the season that are focused on competition within close proximityIf the PIAA votes to begin fall sports Friday, heat acclimatization for football and other fall practices begin Monday, with regular-season football games starting September 11.

SPORTS
NBA
First round continues in the east – Game 2, Raptors over the Nets 104-99 Toronto leads 2- nothing, Celtics beat the 76ers 128-101 with Boston leading 2-nothing in their series. In the West – Jazz beat Nuggets 124-105 the series is tied up. The Mavericks beat the Clippers 127-114 their series is also 2 & 2.

MLB
Blue Jays be at the Orioles 5-2, Red Sox over the Phillies 6-3, in Game 1 of the doubleheader Cardinals beat the Cubs 9-3, Game 2 – Cubs beat the Cardinals 4-2 in seven innings, Royals over the Reds 4-nothing, Game 2 Reds over the Royals 5-nothing, Rays over the Yankees 4-2, Indians bumped the Pirates 6-1, Mets beat the Marlins 5-3, White Sox beat the Tigers 5-3, Brewers be the Twins 9-3, Astros routed the Rockies 13-6, Padres beat the Ranger 6-3, A’s over the Diamondbacks 4-1, Mariners beat the Dodgers 6-4, Giants over the Angels 7-2, Nationals and Braves postponed by rain.

NHL
Tampa Bay beat blue jackets in Game 5-4 winning the series 4-1, Boston Bruins over the Hurricanes 2-1 winning their series 4-1, Canadians over the Flyers 5-3 in game 5 of the first round Philadelphia leading the series 3-2, and in the West Avalanche beat coyotes 7-1 with Colorado winning the series 4-1, Canucks beat Blues 4-3 last night in Game 5, Vancouver leading the series 3-2

BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS AUGUST 19, 2020

WILLIAMSPORT SCHOOL ADJUST REOPENING PLAN
Williamsport School district has made a few changes to their reopening plan after considering parents’ concerns following last month’s school board meeting . According to the Sun Gazette, Williamsport Area School District Superintendent Dr. Timothy Bowers said students will receive 5 days of new instruction as an in-person student or as remote hybrid student. Williamsport schools are holding town meetings for each of their schools this week, you can find the schedule of ZOOM virtual meetings at wasd.org.

WILLIAMSPORT REGIONAL STARTS SERVICE TO CHARLOTTE
The Williamsport Regional Airport began their direct service yesterday to Charlotte North Carolina with maiden flight recognition that included a rainbow affect from a water cannon salute over the tarmack. According to the Sun Gazette airport director Richard Howell said the direct flight to Charlotte – one of the 10 busiest airports worldwide – satisfies customers who don’t want to go through Philadelphia. Williamsport Regional offers two outgoing and two returning flights per day to Charlotte Douglas International.

JUDGE CALLS 23 YEAR OLD IMMATURE IN MANSLAUGHTER SENTENCING
The 23 year old woman who pled no contest to involuntary manslaughter in the August 2018 death of her boyfriend after she was charged with running him over twice in a driveway, was sentenced to two and a half to 5 years in state prison Tuesday in Lycoming County Court. According to court records, the prosecution says the accused, Fallon Mae Davis and 25 year old Luke Austin Beatty were drunk and arguing outside a home, when Beatty stood in front of Davis’ vehicle and she accelerated, hitting Beatty at first trapping him under the engine and then backing over him – she then called a friend instead of 911. According to PennLive, the judge suggested Davis was immature. In pleading no contest, Davis does not accept responsibility for the crime. Judge Nancy Butts said it is the maximum sentence for the charge.

MOTHER CHARGED WITH CORRUPTING MINORS
A Williamsport mother has been arrested for allowing her three children – ages 7 to 11 – to smoke marijuana. According to the Sun Gazette, police say 31 year old Rebecca Rittman encouraged her children smoke the drug between July and early August in her Hepburn Township home. Police say the Chilren and youth department received a tiup about the behavior and after an investigation police charged Rittman with three felony child endangerment charges as well as corrupting the morals of a minor. She’ll have a preliminary hearing September 2^nd.

COVID-19 UPDATE
There are 8 new cases of the coronavirus in Lycoming County for a county wide total of 452 since the pandemic began. At this time, there are four COVID-19 patients hospitalized in Lycoming County, but none on are ventilators. As of yesterday there are 735 additional positive cases in Pennsylvania for a total of 125,579. Philadelphia reported 208 cases – a two-day total for August 17 and August 18.Thirty one new deaths were reported in the state for a total of 7,499

YELLING SUNBURY MAN WITH RIFLE FIRED SHOTS, WAS ARRESTED
A man in Sunbury has been arrested and charged with a third degree felony gun charge, and four misdemeanor counts of recklessly endangering another person. According to police, 21 year old James Glessner was at a home on Arch street Tuesday and witnesses observed gunshots and Glessner walking around outside with a rifle yelling. Police were called and sereached the home where they found other firearms and ammo. Glessner was taken into custody.

TIOGA COUNTY DETOUR LIFTED
According to Penn DOT, the Route 6 detour in Delmar Township, Tioga County is lifted and the roadway is now open. There will still be work performed during daylight hours with single lane conditions and traffic being controlled with flagging. Both lanes of Route 6 will be open during overnight hours. Truck detours will still be in place for Route 287 and Route 6 will use Route 362 / 660 and Route 287. The bridge project spans a tributary to Marsh Creek is located one mile north of Wellsboro and one mile south of the intersection of Route 287 and Route 6.

UNEMPLOYMENT HIRES COULD HELP PENNSYLVANIA BACKLOG

According to Pennsylvania labor officials, there will be a doubling of unemployment compensation staff and about 100 hires planned to tackle the backlog of jobless benefit claims that are under review. According to the Sun Gazette, in a weekly press briefing, Secretary of the State Labor Department, Jerry Oleksiak, said the number of claims under review approach 49 thousand and that the federal provision of $300 a week is a temporary solution which needs a different kind of distribution than they have done. As they hire and train new workers, State officials are reviewing all the updated federal guidance to distribute funds to Pennsylvanians.

SPORTS
NBA
First round continues in the east Magic beat the Bucks 122-110, Heat over the Pacers 113 to 101, In the west, Rockets beat Thunder 123-108 and the Trailblazers beat the Lakers 100 – 93
MLB
Astros beat the Rockies in 11 innings 2-1, Giants beat the Angels 8-2, Padres over the Rangers 6-4, Diamondbacks routed the A’s 10 one, Rays over the Yankees 6-3, Indian beat the Pirates 6-3, Nationals over the Braves 8-5, Dodgers over the Mariners 2-1, Mets beat the Marlins 8-3, Phillies thumped the Red Sox 13-6, Blue Jays edged the Orioles 8-7, White Sox over the Tigers 10-4, Twins beat the Brewers 4-3, Cubs over the Cardinals 6-3, Reds and Royals postponed due to illness
NHL
First round game in the East, Flyers over the Canadians 2-nothing – Philly leading 3-1, Capitals beat the Islanders 3-2 in Game 4 – New York leading 3-1. West Game 5 Stars beat the flames 2-1 Dallas leading the series 3-2, Golden knights wrapped it up in Game 5 winning over the Blackhawks 4-3 – Vegas wins the series 4-1

NFL
The Dallas Cowboys have released defensive tackle Gerald McCoy, who had season-ending surgery on his ruptured right quadriceps tendon Tuesday, and will save $3.25 million in 2020. McCoy will be allowed to keep his $3 million signing bonus, but not his $2.5 million base salary, or $750,000 in roster bonuses.

BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS AUGUST 18, 2020

PIAA TO MEET FRIDAY
A House Bill to allow local school districts more say in the decision making process of athletics and extracurricular activities, is being supported by local legislators after the Wolf Administration recommended school sports not resume until January 2021. State Representatives Jeff Wheeland of Loyalsock and Garth Everett of Muncy told the Sun Gazette that they would support House Bill 2787 so that local schools can judge the best environment to hold fall sports. This bill along with 2788 supports families who may want to continue their child’s education in order to make up for the loss of instruction and competition

POLICE ARREST SHOOTER
State police in Milton arrested a Muncy man after he allegedly shot another man in the abdomen early Sunday morning. Troopers are investigating reports of the two men who were near the I-180, Route 54 intersection in Delaware Township arguing in a car, until Zachary Johns of Muncy exited the vehicle and fired a shot, injuring 57 year old Steven Burns. Johns is in Northumberland Count Prison after being arraigned on aggravated assault, making terroristic threats and other charges. No word on Burns condition this morning.

SOUTHERN PA COUNTY CONCEDE TO THE GOVERNOR FOR VIRUS RELIEF FUNDS
In a legal settlement with the Wolf administration, Lebanon County has agreed to launch a 2.8 million dollar mask-wearing campaign in their region in order to receive 12.8 million in federal coronavirus relief. Funding had been blocked after the GOP controlled Board of Commissioners in Lebanon defied the governor’s shut-down order, reopening anyway on May 15, leading to a doubling of coronavirus cases and keeping the county in the yellow phase when the rest of the state had gone green. Lebanon County commissioners released a statement urging residents of Lebanon County to follow the Wolf Administration’s recommended practices.

VIRTUAL TOWN MEETINGS FOR WASD
Williamsport area schools have announced virtual town hall meetings for each school in the district so that parents can ask questions about the upcoming school year. The ZOOM meetings will begin Monday with Stevens Primary meeting at 4pm and Curtin Elementary’s meeting at 6pm. The other dates and times this week for each school is listed on the home page at the district website at wasd.org.

LYCOMING COUNTY COVID UPDATE
As of yesterday at midnight there are 2 new cases of the corona virus reported in Lycoming County according to the Pennsylvania Department of Health. There are 26 new cases in Northumberland County and 14 new cases in Union County. The federal prison at Lewisburg has no new cases; but they report a total of 59 inmates and three staff members who either have, or have recovered. There are three COVID-19 patients hospitalized in Lycoming County, none on are ventilators. In Pennsylvania, 660 additional positive cases of COVID-19 were reported as of yesterday, bringing the statewide total to 124,460.

BANK ROBBER IN CUSTODY
A Montoursville man has been arrested after attempting to rob a local bank on Saturday. According to the Sun Gazette, Montoursville Borough Police said a bank employee identified 31 year old Timothy Maddox, as the man who came to the M&T Bank’s drive-up window demanding 500 thousand dollars. Maddox reportedly fled the scene directly after he handed over the note to the teller, and was apprehended a short time afterwards. No word on whether Maddox had a firearm.

KNOEBELS MAKING NATIONAL LIST
According to USA Today Knoebels Amusement Resort in Elysburg has made number 7 in 2020 USA Today Readers’ Choice 10 Best Amusement Parks.. Knoebels also enjoys accolades as the number one Park in Pennsylvania and the number one Park in the Northeast. The Phoenix won the number three spot for Best Roller Coaster in the U.S. and is also the highest-rated wooden roller coaster on the list. Knoebels Amusement Resort will be open daily through Labor Day and on weekends in September.

SPORTS

MLB
The Rays and the Blue Jays resumed their doubleheader that was postponed due to rain Rays beat the Blue Jays 3-2 in Game 1, Rays beat the Blue Jays 7-5 in Game 2 in 8 innings, Indians over the Tigers 8-5, Nationals edged the Orioles 6-5, Phillies over the Mets 6-2, Braves blanked the Marlins 4-nothing, White Sox over the Cardinals 7-2, Astros beat Mariners 3-2, Twins beat the Royals 4-2, Brewers beat the Cubs 6-5, Rockies over the Rangers 10-6, A’s stomped the Giants 15-3, Diamondbacks over the Padres 5-4, Dodgers beat the Angels 8-3, Yankees beat the Red Sox 4-2, Pirates and Reds were postponed

NASCAR Chase Elliott won Sunday’s NASCAR cup series race on the road course of Daytona holding off Denny Hamlin on the final lap. Martin Truex Jr. was third and seven time series champion Jimmie Johnson was 4th
Ryan Newman finished 19th but returned to the scene of his horrible crash last year and thanked the safety workers over the radio in the control tower before the race started for their effort that allowed him to race this year.

NHL
New York Islanders beat the Capitals 2-1 leading the series now in the east 3-nothing. Flyers beat the Canadiens 1-nothing in game three – Philly leads the series 2-1, in the west Game 4; the Blackhawks beat the Golden Knights 3-1 – Vegas leads the series 3-4, Blues beat the Canucks 3-2 in Overtime in their Game 3; Vancouver still leading the series 2-1, in overtime Game 4 for the Stars beat Flames 5-4 – their series is tied to 2.

NBA
1^st Round of the NBA post season begins today for the East with Nets and Raptors, 76’ers and Celtics; and for the West 1^st Round – Mavericks and Clippers, Jazz and Nuggets playing in Orlando, Florida.

BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS AUGUST 17, 2020

LOCAL LEGISLATORS SUPPORT BILL ABOUT SCHOOL SPORTS
A House Bill to allow local school districts more say in the decision making process of athletics and extracurricular activities, is being supported by local legislators after the Wolf Administration recommended school sports not resume until January 2021. State Representatives Jeff Wheeland of Loyalsock and Garth Everett of Muncy told the Sun Gazette that they would support House Bill 2787 so that local schools can judge the best environment to hold fall sports. This bill along with 2788 supports families who may want to continue their child’s education in order to make up for the loss of instruction and competition

SHOOTING VICTIM HOSPITALIZED
State police in Milton arrested a Muncy man after he allegedly shot another man in the abdomen early Sunday morning. Troopers are investigating reports of the two men who were near the I-180, Route 54 intersection in Delaware Township arguing in a car, until Zachary Johns of Muncy exited the vehicle and fired a shot, injuring 57 year old Steven Burns. Johns is in Northumberland Count Prison after being arraigned on aggravated assault, making terroristic threats and other charges. No word on Burns condition this morning.

LEBANON COUNTY AGREE TO PLAN TO RECEIVE FEDERAL FUNDS
In a legal settlement with the Wolf administration, Lebanon County has agreed to launch a 2.8 million dollar mask-wearing campaign in their region in order to receive 12.8 million in federal coronavirus relief. Funding had been blocked after the GOP controlled Board of Commissioners in Lebanon defied the governor’s shut-down order, reopening anyway on May 15, leading to a doubling of coronavirus cases and keeping the county in the yellow phase when the rest of the state had gone green. Lebanon County commissioners released a statement urging residents of Lebanon County to follow the Wolf Administration’s recommended practices.

TOWN HALL MEETINGS FOR WILLIAMSPORT SCHOOLS
Williamsport area schools have announced virtual town hall meetings for each school in the district so that parents can ask questions about the upcoming school year. The ZOOM meetings will begin Monday with Stevens Primary meeting at 4pm and Curtin Elementary’s meeting at 6pm. The other dates and times this week for each school is listed on the home page at the district website at wasd.org.

CORONAVIRUS UPDATE IN LYCOMING COUNTY
As of yesterday at midnight there are 2 new cases of the corona virus reported in Lycoming County according to the Pennsylvania Department of Health. There are 26 new cases in Northumberland County and 14 new cases in Union County. The federal prison at Lewisburg has no new cases; but they report a total of 59 inmates and three staff members who either have, or have recovered. There are three COVID-19 patients hospitalized in Lycoming County, none on are ventilators. In Pennsylvania, 660 additional positive cases of COVID-19 were reported as of yesterday, bringing the statewide total to 124,460.

ATTEMPTED BANK ROBBERY IN MONTOURSVILLE
A Montoursville man has been arrested after attempting to rob a local bank on Saturday. According to the Sun Gazette, Montoursville Borough Police said a bank employee identified 31 year old Timothy Maddox, as the man who came to the M&T Bank’s drive-up window demanding 500 thousand dollars. Maddox reportedly fled the scene directly after he handed over the note to the teller, and was apprehended a short time afterwards. No word on whether Maddox had a firearm.

A Penn State University student from Fresh Meadows New York faces felony computer fraud charges as well as more than 15 misdemeanor counts of identity theft after it was discovered he defrauded a business for free pizza. According to North Central PA dot com, 20 year old Nick Zhang will be in Centre County court this week for allegedly falsifying data and stealing points from other people’s Dominos’s pizza reward accounts via computer worth about 180 dollars. Police say during a digital review, incriminating text messages from the defendant were found where he admitted his involvement.

According to USA Today Knoebels Amusement Resort in Elysburg has made number 7 in 2020 USA Today Readers’ Choice 10 Best Amusement Parks.. Knoebels also enjoys accolades as the number one Park in Pennsylvania and the number one Park in the Northeast. The Phoenix won the number three spot for Best Roller Coaster in the U.S. and is also the highest-rated wooden roller coaster on the list. Knoebels Amusement Resort will be open daily through Labor Day and on weekends in September.

SPORTS

BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS AUGUST 15, 2020

LYCOMING COUNTY COVID UPDATE
In the latest data from the Pennsylvania Department of Health, there are 4 new cases of the corona virus in Lycoming County with four patients hospitalized and none on ventilators. Montour County reports 10 patients hospitalized and 2 on ventilators. Statewide, there are 829 additional positive cases of COVID-19 making the total almost 123 thousand cases in Pennsylvania. There was an increase of 36 deaths in PA, with a total of 7,445.

MORE CHARGES IN INFANT DEATH
A Muncy Creek woman is facing more charges in Lycoming County District Court after being charged with child endangerment earlier this year following the death of her three month old daughter. According to the Sun Gazette, a judge added a count of involuntary manslaughter for 20 year old Dempsy Long after an affidavit showed that she was not supervising the child while under the influence of various illegal drugs that were also found about the home. Judge Jon Kemp delivered the extra charge at a preliminary hearing Friday.

LEBANON COUNTY WILL IMPLEMENT MASKING PROGRAM FOR FEDERAL FUNDING
In a legal settlement with the Wolf administration, Lebanon County has agreed to launch a 2.8 million dollar mask-wearing campaign in their region in order to receive 12.8 million in federal coronavirus relief. Funding had been blocked after the GOP controlled Board of Commissioners in Lebanon defied the governor’s shut-down order, reopening anyway on May 15, leading to a doubling of coronavirus cases and keeping the county in the yellow phase when the rest of the state had gone green. Lebanon County commissioners released a statement urging residents of Lebanon County to follow the Wolf Administration’s recommended practices.

EMAILS TO RESIDENTS STIR UP ELECTION CONFUSION
Snyder County commissioners say the county election office is not sending voter registration forms addressed to deceased loved ones or disseminating information that the polls may or may not be open on November 3^rd . According to media outlets Snyder County Commissioner Joe Kantz said the emails are coming from the Republican National Committee. Kantz says the polls are set to be open in Snyder county for anyone who wants to vote in person November 3^rd. The mail in ballot is also still an option for voting this year

VIRTUAL TOWN HALL MEETINGS FOR WILLIAMSPORT SCHOOLS
Williamsport area schools have announced virtual town hall meetings for each school in the district so that parents can ask questions about the upcoming school year. The ZOOM meetings will begin Monday with Stevens Primary meeting at 4pm and Curtin Elementary’s meeting at 6pm. The other dates and times this week for each school is listed on the home page at the district website at wasd.org.

SPORTS
MLB
Game 1 of their double header, Orioles beat the Nationals 6-2, National beat the Orioles in the second game of the doubleheader 15-3, Blue Jays routed the Rays 12 4, Yankees beat the Red Sox 10 -3, Philly edged the Mets 6-5, Reds thumped Pirates 8-1, Indians over the Tigers 10-5, Marlins beat the Braves 8-2, Brewers beat the Cubs 4-3, Rangers of the Rockies 3-2, Astros stomped the Mariners 11-1, Diamondbacks beat the Padres 5-1, Dodgers over the Angels 7-4, A’s beat the Giants 8-7, Cardinals and White Sox as well as the doubleheader between the Twins and Royals were postponed.

NBA from last night
Raptors beat Nuggets 117-109, Pacers beat the Heat 109-92, In overtime the Clippers beat Thunder 107 to 103, and 76ers beat the Rockets 134 to 96

In the NHL Finals in the West, Colorado up 2 games in the series between Avalanche and Coyotes, winning last night 3-2, Vancouver leading their series2- nothing over the Blues, up last night 4-3, In the East, The Canadians tied up the series against the flyers beating them last night 5- nothing, New York Islanders lead the series over the capitals winnings last night again 5-2

It’s official – no Penn State football this fall. The Big Ten Conference announced the postponement of this year’s fall sports season, including all regular-season contests and Big Ten Championships and Tournaments, due to safety concerns related to the pandemic. Morton Schapiro, Chair of the Big Ten Council of Presidents said in a press release that everyone associated with the Big Ten Conference and its member institutions is committed to getting everyone back to competition as soon as it is safe to do so.

BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS AUGUST 14, 2020

Loyalsock Township Schools will be back to school August 31^st for 5 days a week for in-person instruction. In a virtual meeting Wednesday, Superintendent Gerald McLaughlin said they will follow the plan submitted to the school board July 29^th and modify the plan as necessary. New recommendations were given this week for schools reopening by Governor Wolf, and in a moderate designation of covid-19 transmission, a hybrid model is the suggestion for schools in Lycoming County. McLaughlin said masks will be mandatory while in school buildings, and also that Loyalsock student athletes are doing pre-season workouts while the district awaits a decision from the PIAA about fall sports.

A man from Shamokin was arrested for numerous counts of use and possession of drugs and drug paraphernalia after police responded to reports that he was running around a fast food parking lot in Snyder County causing a disturbance. According to Norht Central PA dot com, on July 19^th Brandon J. Weikel had run in front of vehicles in a KFC parking lot in Shamokin Dam while allegedly high on methamphetamine and the management ther asked him to leave. Selinsgrove state police arrived when the man would not comply. Weikel was also charged with public drinkenss , he’ll face a preliminary hearing next week in Selinsgrove.

A Princeton, New Jersey man has been charged with agricultural vandalism in Centre County, according to North Central PA dot com, 62 year old Joe K. Payne, Jr., allegedly used a skid steer to cut a portion of state forest road and dump it on public land near Ingeleby Road in Haines Township this spring. A foresting survey turned up damage that was investigated. Payne was also charged with criminal mischief and is scheduled for a preliminary hearing on August. 19.

Penn State University who originally said students on campus would assume any and all risk of COVID-19 which some media outlets criticized as extreme, has reversed course. In a statement from the school, Penn State will provide an alternate legal agreement that students must sign regarding the coronavirus before returning to campus as a second option with modified language, while still acknowledging a student’s personal risk of being on campus amid the pandemic. Penn State says it will hold half of its fall semester classes with at least some in-person instruction for almost 100,000 students enrolled.

There are 15 new cases of coronavirus reported in Lycoming County for a total of 426 cases according to the PA Department of Health. There are 11 new Northumberland County cases for a total there of 524. In Union County there were no new cases for a county total of 276 since the pandemic, but at USP Lewisburg there are still 18 active inmate cases and two active staff member cases. In hotspot counties for the state Allegheny County reports an increase of 114 cases and Philadelphia County has an increase of 192 cases of COVID-19. Statewide, there are 991 additional positive cases for a total over 122 thousand.

A man who already was out on bail for speeding and a DUI last May, was involved in an accident in Liberty Township a month later and fled the scene. According to North Central PA dot com, State Police who responded to an injury accident along Railroad street found the operator of one of the vehicles not present. Police determined the driver of a blue 2010 Nissan Altima who was involved to be Michael Karichner of Mill Hall, he now faces new charges including driving with a suspended license. He’ll be in court again October 7^th.

Following the deaths of two people involved in a traffic accident last Tuesday in Montour County, the Coroner’s Office there is investigating. The accident happened at the intersection of State Route 54 and State Route 44 in Limestone Township near Milton. According to WNEP, Margaret Smith from the Williamsport area, who was being driven by Ward Bennett when he failed to stop and hit another vehicle, died from her injuries Thursday afternoon. Authorities say Sandra Hoffman was driving the other car and also passed away Thursday from her injuries.

PPL is reminding customers who still may need help with their utility bill that the federal government Low income home energy assistance program is still available through August 31^st or whenever the funds are exhausted. According to the Sun Gazette, the federal government is working with electric companies and ither utility companies to assist families struggling with their bills at this time. A link to see if you’re eligible for the assistance is available here.

SPORTS
MLB
Mets beat the Nationals 8-2, Orioles over the Phillies 11-4, Rays stomped the Red Sox 17-8, Pirates over the Reds 9-6, Cubs over the Brewers 4-2, Dodgers thumped the Padres 11-2, the doubleheader between the Cardinals and the Tigers was postponed

NBA
Wizards over the Celtics 96-90, Kings beat the Lakers 136-122, Grizzlies beat the Bucks 119-106, Suns beat the Mavericks 128-102, Jazz over the Spurs 118-112, Trailblazers got past the Nets 134 to 133, Magic over the Pelicans 133 to 127

NHL
East 1^st Round game 2 – Blue Jackets beat Lightning 3-1, and Hurricanes beat the Bruins 3-2, Golden Knights beat Blackhawks in the West first round in overtime game 2, 4-3, and Stars over Flames 5-4

NCAA
NCAA president Mark Emmert said Thursday there won’t be fall NCAA championships because there are not enough schools participating due to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic — a decision that affects 22 championships, including FCS football. The number of schools fell below 50% on Wednesday when the Big East announced its fall sports wouldn’t be played.