BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS

As the numbers of COVID-19 are rising in most counties in the Commonwealth, Governor Wolf has taken action today to mitigate the virus and placed all of Pennsylvania under a stay–at-home order as of 8pm tonight,  adding the remaining 33 counties to the original 34 just announced earlier this week.  In a press conference today, he also updated the numbers of coronavirus cases, adding 962 more cases in one day, bringing the statewide total to 5,805 in 60 counties.  11 more Pennsylvanians have died,  bringing that total to 74.  According to WNEP, the governor’s list of allowable individual activities and allowable essential travel, is here.

 

 

BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS APRIL 1, 2020

SEVEN MORE COUNTIES REQUIRED TO STAY HOME
More counties in the Commonwealth have been ordered to stay home in an effort to mitigate the spread of the coronavirus in Pennsylvania.  Pennsylvania Department of Health Secretary, Dr. Rachel Levine listed the 7 new counties in which Governor Wolf announced a stay at home order Tuesday, the closest to Lycoming being Cameron and Centre Counties – making 33 the total of all  who must follow the order… Lycoming County has officially announced 6 cases of COVID-19 with no deaths in the county, but there are 63 fatalties statewide due to the virus, and 756 new cases were announced yesterday.

MOTHER WHO LEFT INFANT ON PORCH ARRESTED
A young mother has been arrested after confessing to giving birth and leaving the child on a front porch of a Clinton County residence last week.  According to Penn Live, 18 year old Cassandra Rochelle Stitzer told police she only recently discovered the pregnancy but last week drove to an alley in Loganton, where she gave birth in her car.  She then wrapped the infant and tried to leave him at St. Pauls’ Evangelical Church, but it was locked due to the pandemic, so Sitzer left the baby at a nearby residence.  Those homeowners called police early Thursday morning.  Sitzer has been arraigned on endangering the welfare of a child and released on 25,000 unsecured bail. Police say Sitzer was a suspect after they found a receipt in the towel in which she wrapped the infant. The 7-lb baby boy is hospitalized and reportedly healthy.

PRESIDENT DECLARES PA A DISASTER ZONE
President Donald J. Trump has declared that a major disaster exists in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania and ordered Federal assistance to supplement Commonwealth and local recovery efforts in the areas affected by COVID-19.  This makes direct Federal assistance available to eligible local governments and certain private nonprofit organizations. FEMA officials named MaryAnn Tierney as the Federal Coordinating Officer for Federal recovery operations in the affected areas.

BLUES FESTIVAL CANCELLED, MOVED TO 2021
The Billtown Blues Association’s Board of Directors have cancelled the 31st Annual Billtown Blues Festival planned for this June at the Lycoming County Fairgrounds in Hughesville.  Bonnie Tallman said in terms of the health and safety of everyone involved with the festival, it was important to take a conservative approach and cancel.  But the Billtown Blues has been rescheduled with the anticipated same lineup for June 2021.  The BBA will continue to assess the time frame to reschedule the Audition concert and other special events moving forward.  Details at www.Billtownblues.org

GEISINGER DROPS ATLANTICARE HEALTH
Geisinger Medical Center announced Tuesday they will no longer will be the parent organization of AtlantiCare Health System Inc.  Geisinger also withdrew its suit filed in January in U.S. Middle District Court aimed at preventing AtlantiCare from terminating an earlier integration agreement from 2014.  According to Penn Live, both health systems will continue to collaborate on projects and initiatives, including the New Jersey campus of the Geisinger Commonwealth School of Medicine.  The changes are not expected to impact care, facilities or local communities.

LAWMAKERS, UNION OFFICIALS TALK ABOUT COVID-19 IN JAILS
During a teleconference Tuesday with U.S. Rep. Fred Keller of Kreamer, and Shane Fausey, a union representative for corrections officers at Federal Bureau of Prisons facilities took calls and answered questions pertaining to the safety of staff and the community surrounding  federal prison facilities.  Rep. Keller is working to limit the transfer of inmates from federal facilities who have more rampant cases of COVID 19 into Pennsylvania facilities. Keller said Congress has a $100 million package for resources in the works for the bureau to provide necessary personal protective equipment for prison workers.  Keller called on people to contact their Congressman and Union County commissioners, to ask for an immediate stoppage of the inmate transfer.

FREE LUNCH AVAILABLE FOR EVERY CHILD
The PA Department of Education has gotten approval by the USDA to provide meals for all students in Pennsylvania and not just those enrolled in the reduced lunch program during the governor’s mandated school closures.  According to the Sun Gazette, administrators from the East Lycoming School had previously been using private donations to provide lunches for all the students in their community.  Today is the second distribution day this week, with The Beacon United Methodist church offering a supplement for preschool age siblings of East Lycoming School students.  Food distribution for all students under 18 in the community will be available  from 11-12:30.

PENNDOT STILL WORKING EMERGENCY PROJECTS
PennDOT has announced that 61 emergency and critical highway and bridge projects will be active statewide this week even while the normal highway and bridge construction program has paused.  Urgent emergency work will ensure a reliable transportation system as circumstances surrounding COVID-19 continue to unfold. The emergency work addresses specific safety need criteria, like landslide repairs, or critical bridge, tunnel and drainage repairs, as well as eliminating roadway restrictions that could impact the movement of life sustaining goods and services.

SPORTS
NFL
* Tom Brady will wear No. 12 for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and wide receiver Chris Godwin will switch to No. 14, according to the team. Brady spent 20 seasons wearing No. 12 for the New England Patriots before signing with the Bucs this offseason.
*Officials from the NFL say they expect to start the season in September and plan on having a full 16-game season.

NBA
*The NBA draft is scheduled for June 25th but there are talks it will be postponed.  There’s speculation that the draft will come after the NBA season.
*The NBA and National Basketball Players Association are talking about withholding up to 25% of players’ remaining salaries in escrow should regular-season games eventually be canceled. Officials from the NBA continues to hope that there will be a resumption of  the season, but the uncertainty to fulfill the full 82-game regular season will ultimately be a financial cost shared among owners and players.
*Boston Celtics guard Marcus Smart, who announced Monday that he is clear of COVID-19 after testing positive two weeks ago, plans to donate blood so it can be studied with the hope of finding a treatment for the coronavirus. An anesthesiologist at the Mayo Clinic, said at least four NBA players are talking about donating blood for the National COVID-19 Convalescent Plasma Project, an experimental treatment that could help high-risk patients recover from the virus.

BOXING
UFC light heavyweight champion Jon Jones agreed to plead guilty to his second offense of DWI yesterday, and will not face any jail time if he follows the terms of a plea agreement which includes fines, house arrest and community service in New Mexico.  Jones was arrested on four charges on Thursday in Albuquerque.

NHL
The National Hockey League has extended its’ self-quarantine period for players and staff til April 15th.

BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS MARCH 31, 2020

SCHOOLS,  NON-ESSENTIAL BUSINESS WILL STAY CLOSED
48 people have died in Pennsylvania from COVID-19.  Governor Tom Wolf continues making policy to slow the rise of that number due to the coronavirus in the commonwealth, yesterday announcing stay at home orders for Carbon, Schuylkill, Dauphin and Cumberland counties, following President Trump’s national recommendation to continue social distancing through April 30th.  The Governor also announced that non-life sustaining businesses and schools will be closed indefinitely to help slow the spread of the coronavirus.  A total of 693 new confirmed coronavirus cases were reported yesterday which brings the statewide total of COVID 19 cases to 4,087. There are 26 counties under the stay at home order – except for emergencies.
The full 26 county listing includes: Allegheny, Beaver, Berks, Bucks, Butler, Carbon, Centre, Chester, Cumberland, Dauphin, Delaware, Erie, Lackawanna, Lancaster, Lehigh, Luzerne, Monroe, Montgomery, Northampton, Philadelphia, Pike, Schuylkill, Washington, Wayne, Westmoreland and York.

FIRST COVID-19 DEATH REPORTED AT UNION COUNTY HOSPITAL
Evangelical Community Hospital has announced the first death and increased the positive cases of COVID-19 up two to six, however, the official count for Union County remains at 4 today since the state Department of Health says the official count of cases are based on where a patient lives and not where they are treated.  According to the department, Lycoming County has 4 cases, Northumberland – 1, Montour – 10, Columbia – 6, Tioga-1, and 2 in Potter and 3 in Bradford Counties.  Clinton and Sullivan counties have not reported any cases to date.

LYCOMING COUNTY COURTS EXTEND CLOSURES
The director of Court Services in Lycoming County has announced that they have extended the closure of the Courts of the 29th Judicial District to the public for non-essential functions until April 14th.  COURTS ARE CLOSED TO THE PUBLIC for all other functions – those required to arrive at the courts will be instructed by counsel.  Jury selection scheduled for March 30-April 3, 2020, has been cancelled. All jury trials scheduled for the trial term April through May have been continued No in person payments will be allowed, online payment information is available at lyco.org

SIREN TEST COMING THIS WEEKEND
There will be a tornado siren test performed this weekend for residents in Union and Northern Snyder Counties.  According to social media, Saturday,  April 4th at noon, the Borough of Mifflinburg and the MHC will activate a new tornado warning siren for 3 minutes.  No action or response is required by the public. This tornado warning siren will be activated in the future when a tornado is eminent or on the ground in the area.

CITY COUNCIL TO HOLD VIRTUAL PUBLIC MEETINGS
Williamsport City Council business will continue through the COVID-19 pandemic using a virtual meeting platform and the public will be able to contribute by asking questions remotely as well.  The public can watch the meetings live at www.cityofwilliamsport.org or by searching Williamsport City Council on YouTube.  People wishing to request courtesy of the floor can send an email with contact information by 3pm a day in advance  to [email protected], the requestor will be called at the proper time to speak, comments can be called in following the end of council’s virtual meetings at 570-329-3314 with a limit of 3 minutes to speak.  All future meetings will continue to be held remotely until current social distancing measures are not needed

KELLER TO HAVE TELE-TOWNHALL ABOUT VIRUS IN PRISONS
There will be a tele-town hall meeting for corrections officers in our region with U.S. Congressman Fred Keller of Kreamer, today at 4:30pm.  Representative Keller will be joined by Corrections Officer Union President Shane Fausey, of the Council of Prisons Local 33, to discuss efforts to keep corrections officers and community members safe from COVID-19. You can call  1-866-641-6837 an hour before the event or listen online at keller.house.gov/live.   For nearly two weeks, Congressman Keller has been taking steps to help stop the spread of COVID-19 in the federal prison system.

BUCKNELL SCHEDULES GRADUATION  CEREMONY THIS SUMMER
Bucknell University will hold its 170th Commencement ceremony on Sunday, July 19, beginning at 9 a.m.Due to the global COVID-19 pandemic, school officials rescheduled the event from the weekend of May 15th According to their website, Bucknell acknowledges that the threat of COVID-19 may continue , so they will monitor the public health situation and make any adjustments to this new date no later than June 5.  The University will still confer degrees on May 18th to students eligible to graduate.

SPORTS
The NCAA Division I Council voted yesterday to grant an extra year of eligibility to all student-athletes in spring sports whose seasons were canceled because of the coronavirus pandemic.  The decision will extend the eligibility of all spring-sport student-athletes — not just seniors whose careers would have ended after the cancellation of their seasons.

More than 115 athletes, coaches and sports personalities from 13 countries have joined to raise money for a COVID-19 response fund aimed at providing assistance for individuals fighting the global pandemic. From basketball to NASCAR to gymnastics, Golf to Cricket to skateboarding, athletes in various sports have donated items to https://athletesrelief.org/, and with a minimum $25 dollar donation, fans can enter to win, The program runs through May 1 and has already raised more than $63,000.

In Tennis, 38  year old Roger Federer put on a show for tennis fans via Twitter yesterday, performing trick shots against a wall in the snow. Federer had knee surgery in February, which was going to keep him out of the French Open, which has since been postponed to September. The video, had more than 1.7 million views.
– The All England Club will meet tomorrow to make a final decision about the upcoming grand slam event, Wimbledon, set to begin June 29th.  If it is canceled, it will be the first time since World War I

ESPN will be airing classic MLB baseball games starting tonight and every Tuesday through the end of April.  Tonight will feature the Sept. 21, 2001, game between the Atlanta Braves and New York Mets, the first major pro sports game in New York City following the Sept. 11 tragedy. Each show will feature one of the most memorable games of the last 25 years.

BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS MARCH 30, 2020

NEW COVID-19 NUMBERS IN PA
The Pennsylvania Department of Health confirmed last night that there are 643 additional positive cases of COVID-19, bringing the statewide total to 3,394 in 58 counties. The department also reported four new deaths among positive cases, bringing the statewide total to 38. All people are either in isolation at home or being treated at the hospital.

Here’s a link to the PA Department of Health Public Service Announcement, “Flatten the Curve”  https://youtu.be/flOafsngRRc

TAKE CARE OF SENIORS AND CALL INSTEAD
The latest reminder from the Pennsylvania department of Health as numbers of COVID 19 cases grow, is to take care of our seniors in nursing facilities.  Department of Health Secretary, Dr. Rachel Levine says they are seeing about 5% of nursing care facilities mostly in SE PA showing that elderly residents are testing positive for the virus, however, according to the SUN Gazette, the medical director at a western Pennsylvania nursing home said 14 residents are infected and additional tests are pending.

GOVERNOR WOLF REQUESTS AID FROM FEMA
The governor yesterday requested from President Trump a major-disaster declaration through FEMA so the state can receive more funding and programs during the coronavirus pandemic.  Pennsylvania already received an emergency declaration Jan. 20, to reimburse eligible expenses for emergency protective measures in the state.  Wolf’s latest request, if approved, would provide the same emergency protective measures available under the nationwide emergency proclamation could also provide federal Assistance programs including Disaster Unemployment Assistance, Crisis Counseling, Community Disaster Loans and the Disaster Supplemental Nutrition Program and Statewide Hazard Mitigation.

COMMENCEMENT CHANGES ON THE WAY
Universities are starting to make decisions about upcoming  commencement activities Mansfield University is postponing commencement services originally planned for May 2, 2020 due to COVID-19. According to Mansfield  university administrators, they are surveying graduating seniors about their preferences for an in-person ceremony to be scheduled for later this year. Lycoming college is also deciding to reschedule their commencement due to the virus according to their website.  At this Time, Penn College and Lock Haven still have Spring commencement ceremonies planned in May OF 2020.

 

FOOD PROGRAM HELPED BY LOCAL HOSPITAL
A local hospital has donated to the Central Pennsylvania Food Bank in honor of National Doctor’s  today.  According to a press release, 5 thousand dollars from UPMC in the Susquehanna will be directed to the food bank’s Health Innovations Program which helps connect an emergency feeding network of consumers to wellness and nutrition education.  Hospital officials said the program can fill a vital need to keep people healthy and fed as closures of businesses threatens the security of families in the region.  For more information about the Central Pennsylvania Food Bank’s Health Innovations Program, visit centralpafoodbank.org.

BLOOMSBURG FACEBOOK GROUP GOES VIRAL
As a way to relieve stress during the Coronavirus pandemic, a woman from Bloomsburg and her family started a Facebook page called Bloomsburg Worldwide Porch Musicals, in which she asked followers to vote on a play list before their Friday night dance performance at their home, but now the whole world is really following along.  The page went viral, with over 26 thousand followers now from more than 30 countries like Japan, Italy, Germany, New Zealand and Mexico.  Seth and Megan Fleetwood say they were inspired by the videos of people singing from their balconies in Italy while in quarantine.

PENNSYLVANIA INMATE TESTE POSITIVE FOR VIRUS
One inmate at a Pennsylvania prison has tested positive for the coronavirus, according to officials from PA Department of Corrections.  Penn Live reports they confirmed that an inmate with underlying health conditions at SCI Phoenix in Montgomery County is in the prison’s infirmary and is isolated from other inmates who are under quarantine – in a specific housing unit.  Employees who had contact with the inmate are being monitored for symptoms.

Sports
NASCAR

Timmy Hill won the second virtual iRacing series race at Texas Motor Speedway yesterday.  ESPN says Hill is considered among the top competitors in iRacing, a subscription-based gaming platform. Fox Sports had Mike Joy and Hall of Famer Jeff Gordon call the race, which was aired in some markets and on FOX’s cable channel. The first iRacing event last Sunday drew 903,000 viewers and was the most watched esports event in U.S. history

NFL
The Washington Redskins, have signed former Eagles cornerback Ronald Darby, with a one-year deal worth $4 million.

NBA
Former New York Knicks guard Stephon Marbury who coaches the Chinese Basketball Association’s Royal Fighters, is trying to arrange a deal that could deliver 10 million N95 masks to New York City, but he has run into issues coordinating a deal between a Chinese company and the city.
Boston Celtics guard Marcus Smart, who tested positive for COVID-19 two weeks ago, announced Sunday on social media that he has been cleared by the Massachusetts Department of Health.

Boxing
The International Boxing Hall of Fame on Sunday postponed the 31st annual induction weekend this coming June because of the coronavirus pandemic. The Class of 2020 will be inducted along with the Class of 2021 during the 2021 induction weekend.

Here’s a link to the PA Department of Health Public Service Announcement, “Flatten the Curve”  https://youtu.be/flOafsngRRc

BACKYARD BROADCASTING WEEKEND NEWS MARCH 29, 2020

SECOND COVID-19 CASE REPORTED IN LYCOMING COUNTY
There is a second Lycoming County case of COVID-19, according to the Sun Gazette.  Union, Northumberland and Potter Counties have reported one case each as well.  As of Friday, the PA Department of Health Secretary , Dr. Rachel Levine, says there are 531 new positive cases of COVID-19 in the Commonwealth, bringing a statewide total to 2, 218 positive cases in 50 counties with 22 adult deaths reported.  This week Dr. Levine said the Governor’s order to practice social distancing is critical to stop the potential of exponential growth of cases that could overwhelm area hospitals in the coming weeks… .  This week Dr. Levine said the percentages of all adults 50 and over diagnosed with the virus was at 46%, but the 25-49 year old age bracket testing positive was also also significant at 39 percent.

NEWBORN BABY LEFT ON PORCH
PA State Police say a newborn baby was discovered on a porch at a home near Loganton Thursday morning around 5am, by a couple who took the baby inside and immediately called 911.  According to the Sun Gazette, the Sugar Valley Fire Company and Lamar State police responded and found the baby to be a healthy 7lb boy who is doing fine now, but they are searching for the mother.  Police say she left bloody footprints between North Street where she may have given birth on the pavement, leading to the home on West Main Street where the baby was found. If you have information, please call state police.

MATCHING GRANTS AVAILABLE FOR AREA BUSINESSES
There is a new grant available for Central Pennsylvania businesses who are impacted by the coronavirus that has the potential to help local businesses get back to full strength by subsidizing marketing efforts.  The parent company of the Sun Gazette, Ogden Newspapers, has created a $1 million dollar fund that can be used by Williamsport businesses for print and online ads in the Sun Gazette in the coming months.     For more information, and to apply for a portion of the 15 thousand dollars of a matching grant that is available, visit ogdennews.com/community-grant.

UPMC DONATES TO FOOD BANK PROGRAM
A local hospital has donated to the Central Pennsylvania Food Bank in honor of National Doctor’s Day, coming up Monday March 30th.  According to a press release, 5 thousand dollars from UPMC in the Susquehanna will be directed to the food bank’s Health Innovations Program which helps connect an emergency feeding network of consumers to wellness and nutrition education.  Hospital officials said the program can fill a vital need to keep people healthy and fed as closures of businesses threatens the security of families in the region.  For more information about the Central Pennsylvania Food Bank’s Health Innovations Program, visit centralpafoodbank.org.

NBA
ESPN analyst Doris Burke has received a positive diagnosis for COVID-19 but says she is now symptom-free more than two weeks after her initial concerns of an illness.

Thunder forward Danilo Gallinari has connected with the Oklahoma City-County Health Department to provide funding for 400 coronavirus testing kits, as well as personal protection equipment like  face shields, gloves, gowns and N95 masks for high-risk individuals such as health care workers, first responders, people over 65 and those who are immunocompromised.

BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS MARCH 27, 2020

VIRUS NUMBERS NOT LOOKING GOOD FOR YOUNGER ADULTS
The COVID 19 numbers are rising in Pennsylvania…PA Dept. of Health Secretary Dr. Rachel Levine says the percentage of adults 50 and over testing positive for the virus is at 46% , however younger adults are not escaping the threat, with positive cases in the state for 25-49 year olds at 39 percent.   Dr. Levine says that younger demographic needs to make sure they are also following Governor Tom Wolf’s order to use social distancing and stay home.  According to the Department of Health, there have been 16 Pennsylvanians die from complications from the Coronavirus.  Statewide there are 560 new cases – doubling from yesterday – and a total positive cases for COVID 19 at 1, 687 in PA – there are now 16 deaths

LEWISBURG HOSPITAL HAS TWO POSITIVE COVID-19 CASES
Two people have tested positive for the virus at Evangelical Community Hospital, Lewisburg but no additional information is being released about those patients, whose illness statistics will be listed in the counties they reside and not in Union County where they are being treated.  According to the Sun Gazette, the hospital said they have been prepared for the eventuality of a positive case there and the facility remains safe for community members.  The hospital reports that they  have tested 128 people with 24 negative results, 2 positive, and 102 pending.  Get details and updates of policies at evanhospital.com/virus.

LIVE UPMC VIDEO CONFERENCE TODAY AT 10AM
UPMC Officials will Discuss Ongoing Testing, Telemedicine, Hospital Preparations in a live video press conference online today at 10 am.  Involved in the event is Graham Snyder, M.D., M.S., director of UPMC’s  infection prevention and hospital epidemiology, Donald Yealy, M.D., chair, Department of Emergency Medicine at UPMC and University of Pittsburgh and  Rachel Sackrowitz, M.D., M.B.A., chief medical officer, at the UPMC ICU Service Center.  They will provide updates on telemedicine and system wide preparedness efforts plus, answer questions on testing. If you personally have any questions about your health connect with a physician virtually via MyUPMC or UPMC AnywhereCare. The public can view the press conference today at  https://bcove.video/3b1wrHf

WOMAN CLAIMING TO HAVE THE VIRUS JAILED AFTER COUGHING ON FOOD AT A STORE
The woman who coughed on perishable food items, saying she had the coronavirus at a Wilkes Barre grocery store has been charged and imprisoned on 50 thousand dollars bail.  Police say they charged 35-year-old Margaret Ann Cirko with criminal mischief, making terroristic threats and other offenses.  She allegedly vomited on the produce there.  According to the store officials 35 thousand dollars worth of foods was lost Wednesday afternoon. Cirko was taken for a mental health evaluation.

JOBS ARE AVAILABLE IN PENNSYLVANIA
The Pennsylvania Career link is providing information on new jobs and careers for over 25 local companies in a time when some industries are decreasing staff, others are increasing, according to Jason Fink, President and CEO of the Williamsport Lycoming Chamber of Commerce.For Pennsylvania residents who are seeking employment, go directly to the PA Career link website for information – pacareerlink.pa.gov/jponline/

WILLIAMSPORT WOMAN ALLEGEDLY ATTACKED EMT WORKERS THERE TO HELP
A woman allegedly attacked two emergency medical technicians this week outside her West Third Street apartment.  According to the Sun Gazette, emergency crews responded to 32 year old Jennifer Bismark’s residence for reports of a panic attack.  According ot police report, Bismark attacked one EMT and then the other when they attempted to assist their colleague Bismark was arraigned in Lycoming County court and committed to the Lycoming County Prison in lieu of $25,000 bail.

WILLIAMSPORT EVENTS IN APRIL MUST BE POSTPONED OR CANCELLED
Any group with a permit for a planned event in April will be postponed or cancelled as result of COVID-19, according to Williamsport Mayor Derek Slaughter.  That includes the neo-Nazi rally hosted by the National Socialist Movement rally in Brandon Park.  He told the Sun Gazette that he was not certain if the group would reapply for a permit beyond April.  The permit restriction for April also a cancels “Dare to be Different,” which was a counter-rally of peace and unity to be held at Bowman Field on the same day as the neo-Nazi rally.  At this time, no more than 50 individuals are permitted to gather for any public event, not apply to the Williamsport Area School District.

PENNSYLVANIA UNEMPLOYMENT CLAIMS BREAK RECORDS
About 650,000 unemployment compensation claims have been filed in Pennsylvania over the past 11 days as the governor ordered thousands of non-life-sustaining businesses to shut down to help stop the spread of the coronavirus. The state broke records in the nation for having most claims in week for these 2 weeks.  According to the Governor’s Department of Labor and industry, the increase in our state is because of the aggressive mitigation efforts to stop the spread of COVID-19, kicking off an increase in unemployment compensation filings.  Wolf says PA is the epicenter of the national jobless crisis.

Sports
Harlem Globetrotters Legend Fred “Curly Neal, has died at 77 years old.  He had a 22 year run with the team after a successful career at Johnson C Smith University

IndyCar
The Indianapolis 500 has been postponed from May 24th until August 23rd due to the corona virus pandemic.  Qualifying will be the week of August 15th.
NFL
Roger Goodell sent a league wide memo yesterday that the NFL draft will go on as scheduled April 23-25th.  According to ESPN, he told teams to prepare for the draft to be outside of team facilities and with a limited number of people. Prospects and their families will not be present on-site.  The draft, originally planned as another big event in Las Vegas, will not be open to the public.

MLB
MLB Players Association agreed to a deal with Major League Baseball on critical salary and service-time issues for the season due to the coronaviruslast night on what would have been Opening Day. There is no formal plan but that the owners and players both want to play as many games as possible, hoping to train in mid-May and play as early as June — even if they play in front of no fans.  Team owners should ratify the deal at noon today.

NBA
ESPN reports that Golden State Warriors star guard Stephen Curry interviewed Dr. Anthony Fauci, director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, about the coronavirus pandemic and the possibility of being able to hold large gatherings, including sporting events, in the future. The question-and-answer session lasted almost 30 minutes and averaged close to 50,000 viewers, including other NBA players, music stars and even former President Barack Obama, on Instagram Live.

276 NEW CASES IN PENNSYLVANIA
Dr Rachel Levine in her daily press conference yesterday updated Pennsylvanians on the growing numers of cases of COVID 19 in Pennsylvania.  As of midnight March 25th, there are 276 new cases of the coronavirus,  bringing a statewide total to 1, 127 in 44 counties.  There are 11 deaths reported in Pennsylvania.  Levine said they are working hard to make sure N95 masks get into the hands of our medical workers, and she continues to stress the Governor’s efforts urging Pennsylvanians to self-distance an limit contact is critical. The first case of the coronaviruse was diagnosed in the state on March 6th.

TENTS OUTSIDE EMERGENCY ROOM USED FOR SCREENINGS
Geisinger Jersey Shore Hospital have placed tents outside the emergency entrance where patients are now screened for any respiratory illnesses that could be related to COVID-19 before entering the building.  According to Geisinger’s media relations specialist, the screening tents ensure safety of all but inside the tents they do not provide testing for the virus, only checking for any signs or symptoms.

STORE EMPLOYEE TESTS POSITIVE FOR COVID-19
A Milton grocery store has announced that an employee has been diagnosed with COVID-19 this week but has not worked at the store since March 18th.  Public Relations Director for Weis Markets, Dennis Curtin, said in a statement that they support their employee and are following all the local and state department health guidelines.  Curtin added that no additional employees have reported any illness, but one associate who worked with the diagnosed person has gone into self-quarantine.  Enhanced sanitizing and cleaning procedures are in place at all of the 199 Weis stores and Curtin says the Milton location continues to be a safe place to shop.

MEAL DISTRIBUTION CHANGES
Williamsport Area School District has announced a change in the delivery process for their meal assistance program to reduce face to face contact between school employees during the COVID 19 crisis.  Beginning this Monday, March 30th, the meal assistance program will only operate on Mondays and Wednesdays from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.  Bagged meals for students 18 and younger on Monday will include 2 breakfasts and lunches and Wednesday’s will include 3 breakfasts and lunches.  Students who benefit from this program must be present at the time of pick up.  The Williamsport Area schools offering the meals are Stevens Primary School , Curtin and Lycoming Valley Intermediate Schools and Williamsport Middle.  Get more info at www.wasd.org

FIRST CORONAVIRUS CASE REPORTED IN PENNSYLVANIA
The first case of COVID-19 was diagnosed in Lycoming County yesterday according to the Department of Public Safety confirmed this week. Lycoming County Coroner Charles E. Kiessling Jr. who first mentioned the case on social media and said he was told the person has been instructed to quarantine at home. No information about the individual was released. As we all endure social distancing, Governor Wolf said in a press conference yesterday, that business owners and their employees have borne a huge brunt of the shutdowns, and urged residents to “step up” and do their part to help stop the spread of coronavirus, and to please stay home.

WATER LEAK DAMAGES  LOCK HAVEN STOREFRONT BUSINESSES
There was a water leak in downtown Lock Haven yesterday in a vacant building along East Main Street that flooded basements of several buildings there.  According to the Record Online, the city water department shut down the line but  damage had been done at the Clinton County Garden Building where newer heating and AC units were damaged and briefly tripped circuit breakers.  Volunteer firefighters pumped water out of both the garden building and the Roxy Theater which fire officials say had receded to about 2 feet by yesterday afternoon.  The building where the leak occurred is owned by a New Jersey man, who has been notified

COMPLETE THE 2020 CENSUS WHILE YOU SELF-ISOLATE
Residents are encouraged to participate in the 2020 Census this year while many in the community are home and practicing social distancing.  Census field operations are on pause, but you can still complete the census online or by phone.  According to the Union County Census bureau office, a complete and accurate count, especially of residents in rural areas is important since Census numbers affect public funding for Medicaid, School lunch programs, Community development grants, Road and school construction, Medical services, Business locations and much more.  There are also part-time employment opportunities for temporary part-time work with the 2020 Census. Get more information and an application online by going to 2020census.gov/jobs.
Sports

NFL
New Orleans Saints coach Sean Payton said he was “cleared” this past Tuesday after testing positive for the coronavirus after he had symptoms on March 15th.

The Dallas Cowboys have resumed contract negotiations with Dak Prescott for the first time since the team used the exclusive franchise tag on him earlier this month.  Prescott is the first quarterback in Cowboys history to have the franchise tag applied to him.


NBA
Stephen Curry is scheduled to host a conversation today on social media with Dr. Anthony Fauci, one of the leading experts on the coronavirus pandemic and a top medical advisor to President Donald Trump at 1pm eastern time on Instagram Live.

MLB
The Pittsburgh Pirates reached out to their local communities this week and delivered more than 400 pizzas from two local pizzerias to the staff at Allegheny General Hospital – in the same spirit, Chicago Cubs first baseman Anthony Rizzo teamed up with local Chicago restaurants to feed the staff  a Children’s Hospitals in Chicago and Florida, with nearly 700 meals donated.

BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS MARCH 25, 2020

COUNTY OFFICIAL CONFIRMS FIRST CASE OF COVID-19 IN LYCOMING COUNTY
Lycoming County Coroner, Charles Kiesling Jr. confirmed to the Sun Gazette this morning that there is one living confirmed case of the corona virus that causes COVID-19 in Lycoming County.  The patient is being treated at home. According to Kiesling, there could be more cases confirmed moving forward as testing takes place.  No deaths have been reported in Lycoming County.

NEW DAILY CORONAVIRUS CASE NUMBERS
Pennsylvania Secretary of Health Dr. Rachel Levine announced last night the latest numbers for the corona virus, reporting 207 new cases and a new state wide total to 851.  She also reported more deaths with a statewide total now at seven –  2 in Allegheny County, 1 in Lackawanna, Monroe, and Montgomery Counties and 2 in Northampton County.  According to Levine, out of all the people in the state who have contracted COVID-19, about 10 percent needed to be hospitalized.

GUNS SHOPS CAN STAY OPEN
Governor Wolf yesterday allowed gun shops across the commonwealth to open on a limited basis during the coronavirus pandemic.  According to the SUN Gazette, several justices urged the governor to make the decision which was only included on an updated list of life-sustaining business in PA.  Wolf also ordered residents of Erie County, in the state’s northwestern corner, to remain at home with few exceptions, residents of seven other counties — Philadelphia and its suburbs, Monroe County in the Pocono Mountains and Pittsburgh and the rest of Allegheny County — have already been ordered to stay home except for emergencies.

WILLIAMSPORT MAYOR PROPOSES LIMITING OUTDOOR GATHERINGS TO 50
Mayor Derek Slaughter has proposed that no gatherings of groups of more than 50 can be on city streets, parks or other public places until at least May 1st in an effort to control the spread of COVID-19.  According to the Sun Gazette, restrictions on city property expire April 2nd and City Council will determine at their next meeting if they will continue.  The mayor’s proposed ban will not apply to schools.

PUBLIC TELEVISION OFFERING A TOWN-HALL MEETING OVER COVID-19
Public television will offer a live, hour-long virtual town hall meeting with area health experts and government officials this Thursday night at 8pm.  According to a press release, the program is called Keystone Edition: Corona Crisis, and will be a live, hour-long program with no in-studio audience, the public will be able to call during the program or email questions ahead of time to [email protected] to get answers and learn the latest information on the coronavirus pandemic. Viewers can also submit questions through social media using #VIAcoronacrisis.

NEW VISITATION RULES AT UPMC
UPMC has updated their policies yesterday restricting visitors at hospitals in the Susquehanna region as a result of the ongoing threat of COVID-19.  According to a hospital press release, all UPMC facilities will limit visitors for most inpatient units with only one in the ER, post-surgery discussions and OB and labor.  Pediatric units will allow two visitors.  The hospital will no longer allow visitors under the age of 18. Those who are allowed to visit will be screened upon entering the facility and may also be asked about travel and potential exposure to the virus. Anyone exhibiting symptoms of a respiratory infection such as a cough, shortness of breath, and a fever, are asked to remain at home.

SOCIAL SECURITY IN TACT EVEN THOUGH OFFICES CLOSE
Lycoming County residents should feel secure that their Social Security payments will continue even though the offices will close to the public for protection and to help stop the spread of this coronavirus. According to a news release by the Commissioner of Social Security, many services are available online at www.socialsecurity.gov.  Use that address as well for information about which services will continue and which ones are suspended, as well as a list of deadlines that are extended to ease the burden on the public and medical providers during this pandemic

WEBINAR FOR PA BUSINESS THIS FRIDAY
There will be a webinar this week for businesses affected by the coronavirus and hosted by the Pennsylvania Chamber of Commerce.  According to the chamber website the employer educational webinar is entitled “2020 Coronavirus and Business Next Steps and Best Practices,” and will be held online at 11 am this Friday.  Businesses can register at pachamber dot org.

Sports
NFL
The Carolina Panthers have released quarterback Cam Newton, allowing the veteran to sign with another team.  Newton was drafted first overall by the Panthers in 2011.

It’s still going to be April 23-25 for this year’s NFL draft despite yesterday’s recommendation from the league’s general manager subcommittee to commissioner that it be moved back due to the COVID-19 pandemic

The NFL will implement league-wide workplace and operational mandates tonight at 6 p.m. that all club facilities were to remain closed to all personnel with the exception of some training and some administrative jobs.

NBA
Minnesota Timberwolves star Karl-Anthony Towns said in an emotional video last that his mother is in a medically induced coma and had to be put on a ventilator from what he believes to be COVID-19.

The New Jersey Devils and the Philadelphia 76’ers co-owners of the teams rescinded this week’s 20% pay-cut to employees who make more than $100K, and will pay full salaries and the 1500 hourly workers will also be paid throughout the regular season

Olympics
The 2020 Tokyo Olympics  has officially been postponed to 2021- the games will still be branded for the year 2020

BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS MARCH 24, 2020

STATE CORONAVIRUS NUMBERS
The State Department of Health confirmed Monday night that there are a confirmed 644 cases of COVID-19 in 34 counties, a one-day increase of 165 cases in Pennsylvania,  and a total of six deaths, up from two a day earlier.   According to Penn Live, it’s the largest one-day increase to date. All who have tested positive for the coronavirus are either in isolation at home or being treated at a hospital, There are 6,595 patients who have tested negative.  Most testing is now being done in private laboratories or in hospitals..

BUCKNELL STUDENT TESTS NEGATIVE
The student from Bucknell University who had self-isolated while thinking they were infected with the coronavirus and was tested in Lewisburg, has been found to be negative for the virus and is out of quarantine.  According to Penn Live, university officials say the student sought help from local health authorities after feeling ill following a trip to New York City.  They had been isolated since testing at Evangelical Community Hospital March 16th.

LOCALS DISAGREE WITH INMATE TRANSFER
A Prison Local organization and Representative Fred Keller of Kreamer are speaking out to oppose the transfer of federal inmates from hot zones for COVID-19 in New York City, to federal facilities in Union and another in Wayne County.  According to WNEP, first inmate in the federal prison system tested positive for the coronavirus as well as  two federal Bureau of Prison employees, and according to the Bureau of Prisons, they are limiting inmate transfers under certain conditions.  However, Rep Keller said he had gotten word Monday that transfers will take place.  According to the Council of Prison Locals, inmates are currently being transferred into federal prisons near Lewisburg, Allenwood, and Waymart.

USE 211 IN TIMES OF UNCERTAINTY
If you have questions about how to find resources in this time of uncertainty, residents in Williamsport can use 211 to find answers for solutions to the loss of a job, or how to cope with overwhelming utility bills.  Using 211 puts a caller in touch with a caseworker 24/7 who will help them find the resources they need.  According to the Sun Gazette the United Way can track what community needs are when callers use 211 and helps them serve the community better.  The 211 service is also available online at PA211 and by texting your zip code to 898211.

GOVERNOR WOLF EXTENDS SCHOOL SHUTDOWN
Gov. Tom Wolf on Monday extended a statewide schools shutdown through at least April 6 and ordered residents of Pennsylvania’s hardest-hit areas to stay home for at least two weeks to help combat the spread of the new coronavirus.  Pennsylvania health officials on Monday reported 165 new cases of COVID-19 infection in Pennsylvania, for a total of more than 640 in 34 counties. They reported a total of six deaths, up from two a day earlier. The Department of Education said school buildings are scheduled to reopen for administrators, teachers and other staff on April 7. Under the plan announced Monday, students could return to school April 9.

LOCAL TESTING GOES WELL
The outpatient specimen collection process through UPMC Susquehanna for testing of the coronavirus that started yesterday in Williamsport went quickly and safely.  According to the Sun Gazette, the hospital’s director of infection prevention and control said 23 patients who had a referral to be tested at the site at 609 Brandon Ave, were in and out of the facility in about 4 minutes each.  Officials say no risk to nearby homes around it and experts say the facility is specially designed to produce ideal conditions to perform these kind of tests safely and efficiently.  The specimens will be safely transported to one of three places for testing and results could be returned could be returned in less than a week.

TURNPIKE REOPENED WITH LIMITED STAFFING
The Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission has reopened all 17 of its service plazas as of last Friday. Restrooms inside all service plazas will be open 24 hours. The outdoor portable toilets will remain in place at the service plazas for approximately one more week.  Limited food options will before take-out only.  All service plazas will have limited staffing for the safety of the employees Fuel and all convenience stores inside the service plazas will continue to remain open 24 hours a day.

YMCA HAS RESOURCES FOR YOU
The River Valley Regional YMCA serving 5 counties with 6 branches has closed all their facilities according to a press release.  They will make available home workouts, online classes, healthy recipes, and other ways to stay active and safe available at www.rvrymca.org and on Facebook.  The non-profit encourages members to continue their membership support and look forward to reopening to continue the fulfillment of their mission.

 

Sports
NFL
The NFL Physicians Society is discontinuing physicals for players amid the coronavirus pandemic, according to a letter obtained by NFL Network..  The decision will affect free agents who are awaiting physicals to officially sign contracts with new teams, as well as draft prospects whose health issues need to be rechecked.

Dallas Cowboys Pro Bowl center, 29 year old Travis Frederick, announced his retirement via Twitter on Monday.  Frederick has been battling an auto-immune disease that affects the nervous system.

Olympics
The Olympic torch relay will start Thursday as planned in northeastern Japan with no torch, no torchbearers, no public, and little ceremony. The flame arrived on Friday from Greece – which will now be carried on the trek in a lantern by vehicle.

Men’s Basketball
David Edwards, a guard for the Texas A&M basketball team in the early 1990s who holds the school’s single-season record for total assists, has died of complications from the coronavirus Sunday according to The Dallas Morning News. Originally from Queens, NY, Edwards started his collegiate career at Georgetown before transferring to Texas A&M

BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS MARCH 23, 2020

DEATH TOLL GROWS TO FOUR IN PENNSYLVANIA
The death toll has grown to four in Pennsylvania from the coronavirus known as COVID-19.  Penn Live reports that the Monroe County coroner reported the death Sunday night of a 56-year-old man from complications from the disease.  Lehigh Valley Live reported that the victim was from East Stroudsburg and died at Lehigh Valley-Pocono Hospital  and had tested positive earlier for COVID-19. The state’s first death was that of Carmine Fusco of Northampton County, who died on March 18. Fusco is one of four in his family to have died from the virus. The second death was a person in their late 60s from Allegheny County reported  March 21. The third death was a 72-year-old man from Abington Township in Montgomery County.

LEVINE: “STAY HOME”
Secretary of Health Dr. Rachel Levine said in a press conference for residents to “Stay calm, home and safe,” recommending our plan of ‘in-action’ against the coronavirus in PA – She confirmed the number of new cases of COVID 19 reported Sunday – 108,  bringing the statewide total to 479 in 33 counties. All people are either in isolation at home or being treated at the hospital.  The numbers are reported from commercial, hospital and state labs. There are 4,964 patients who have tested negative, and the Penn Live reports 4 total deaths.

UPMC STARTS COVID-19 TESTING IN WILLIAMSPORT
Beginning today- March 23rd, UPMC in the Susquehanna region will begin directing patients who received physician consultation and referral for symptoms consistent with COVID-19 to an outpatient specimen collection site in Williamsport. If a patient is seeking a test,  they must be evaluated by their care provider, who will assess the need, contact the local UPMC infection prevention team,  who then will review the information and determine if testing is needed.  An appointment to have their specimen collected will be scheduled. Patients should self-isolate until that appointment.  The site is not open to the public, and walk-in patients will not be tested

STATE PRIMARIES WILL BE MOVED TO JUNE
An agreement has been reached on postponing the state’s primary election from April 28 until June 2, According to the Philadelphia Inquirer, legislation is set to advance through the State Legislature today witgh the help of State Rep. Garth Everett, the chair of the House State Government Committee who worked Sunday to reach a deal.  The rescheduling would also give county election officials more flexibility in consolidating polling places this year and make long-term changes to a sweeping election law passed last year.

DONATIONS OF MASKS SOUGHT
The Williamsport-Lycoming Chamber of Commerce and West Branch Builders Association, are asking the public and those in various building trades to donate any N-95 masks they may have to those who are working in the health care community.  According to the sun gazette, some organizations are in dire need.  If you have a mask donation, please contact Jason Fink at [email protected] or Carroll Pawlikowski at [email protected].

STATE POLICE WILL ENFORCE GOVERNOR’S ORDER TODAY
Enforcement of business closures will begin today at 8am after the governor dealt with a flood of waiver requests over the weekend from businesses wanting clarification of their status as a life-sustaining businesses as determined by the Department of Community and Economic development.  Colonel Robert Evanchick, commissioner of the Pennsylvania State Police said that troopers and liquor control enforcement officers are prepared to ensure compliance with Governor Wolf’s order. Any  noncompliant entities face possible criminal penalties punishable by fines and even jail time. To report a noncompliant business, contact your local law enforcement agency’s non-emergency number.

NO FARE NEEDED FOR RIVER VALLEY TRANSIT
As River Valley Transit closes their lobby and administrative offices until April 5thm they have made the announcement that passengers will not be required to purchase fare or passes buses in an effort to enhance and encourage social distancing. Riders are now required to enter and exit the bus using the rear door to minimize driver contact unless they need to use the accessibility ramp.  Riders are encouraged to use bus service only to go to work, medical appointments, grocery stores and other essential trips. River Valley transit announced a reduced buss service schedule, with daily bus service ending at 7pm.

WEIS MARKETS GIVE EMPLOYEES A RAISE
Weis markets announced over the weekend that they are giving their associates a two dollar per hour raise as the response to COVID 19 increases.  The raise went into effect yesterday.  According to a letter to the employees, owner Jonathan Weis said he appreciated their hard work and commitment.  The raises are at the store-level according to the Sunbury based food retailer.

Sports
Olympics
Canada won’t send athletes to the Olympics in Tokyo unless the Games are postponed by one year, the country’s Olympic committee announced Sunday night amid concerns over the coronavirus pandemic.

NFL
In the wake of the XFL officially canceling the remainder of its inaugural season because of the coronavirus crisis, NFL teams will be allowed to begin signing former XFL players today.

The Pittsburgh Steelers have reached a deal with tight end Eric Ebron worth $12 million, filling a major need for the team.

The Eagles agreed to terms with former Denver Broncos safety Will Parks on a one-year deal,

The Kraft family and the New England Patriots thanked Tom Brady in a full-page ad in a Sunday paper in Florida telling Buccaneers fans to Take care of him. You got a great one – Brady, 42, left New England with six Super Bowl rings and 41 playoff starts since 2001.

The SUN Gazette has named Aiden Gair of Loyalsock the Player of the Year, even as the team hopes there might be a state quarterfinals through an all but cancelled postseason

Sports Cancellations.
The Boston Marathon will delay its race until Sept. 14,
The London Marathon has been postponed from April 26 to Oct. 4
The 2020 Invictus Games have been postponed

The EW Scripps Company said it will not be holding the Scripps National Spelling Bee on May 24 near Washington, D.C.

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