BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS JULY 10. 2020

WILLIAMSPORT CITY COUNCILS HIRES ECONOMIC EXPERT

City Council hired an economic analytic expert Thursday. According to the Sun Gazette, Vijay Kapoor, president of Kapoor Company, will assist the city administration as it prepares for possible arbitration with the Bureau of Fire union in August. Kapoor will be paid no more than $16,500 to perform what he said is a granular, high-end analysis using compensation comparisons from cities across Pennsylvania. Mayor Derek Slaughter also said that Kapoor will also be used by the city in preparation for his proposed 2021 budget and negotiations with police and River Valley Transit unions.

REMAINS DISCOVERED IDENTIFIED

The remains discovered on the morning of July 4th near Bates Road in East Cameron Township in Northumberland County have been identified as Joshua Phillippy, 22, of Ashland. According to NorthCentralPA.com, Phillippy had been a declared missing person by Pennsylvania State Police in Frackville on June 16th. Northumberland County Coroner James Kelley with Doctor of Dental Science, Dr. John Owens ad staff, helped in identifying the remains through dental records. There is no evidence of foul play suspected in the investigation.

CITY EAGER TO GET PROJECTS DONE

City officials are eager to get projects such as Grafius Run flood control, the levee and street reconstruction done after reviewing the six-year capital projects budget according to the Sun Gazette. Interim city finance director, Joesph Pawlak, said the capital projects budget runs from June 30, 2021 through June 30, 2026, noting that the first two years will allow council to look at those projects that are more firmly in place with final four years being more of a wish list.

LOCAL RETAILERS FACING COIN SHORTAGE

Local retailers are saying there is a national shortage of U.S. Coins, posting signs about the shortage in their stores. One retailer is GIANT market on E. Third Street in Williamsport, and according to NorthCentralPA.com, their signs state they can only accept credit, debit and electronic payments at this time due to the coin shortage. In June, the Federal Reserve began limiting allocation of coins to banks and financial institutions, citing a decrease in coin deposits from financial institutions in the past few months. The U.S. Mint continues to produce coins and hopes the shortage issue will resolve once the economy opens more broadly.

CITY OF WILLIAMSPORT RECIPIENT OF CORONAVIRUS AID

The city of Williamsport is recipient of $609,271 in federal Community Development Block Grant funding through the Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security Act, according to the Sun Gazette. The block grant funding will be used to prevent, prepare and respond to COVID-19 pandemic issues, said Stephanie Young, city department director. Young also stated “Funding must not be a duplication of benefits.” And it is intended to be gap funding. The department will have an open enrollment period and once the organizations are selected, the city will need to enter into a sub-recipient agreement with the organizations.

TEEN CHARGED IN CHILD PORNOGRAPHY CREATED IN WILLIAMSPORT

Pennsylvania State Police Montoursville stated pornographic videos created in Williamsport depicting the abuse of children were uploaded to the internet and received over 19,000 views before deletion. According to NorthCentralPA.com, Cole L. Johnson, 18, was charged on Tuesday with one count of third degree felony possession of child pornography in relation to the videos. Trooper Matthew Miller stated the female victims were aged 16 and 17. Johnson’s bail was set at $95,000 unsecured during a preliminary arraignment on Tuesday.

PIAA RESPONDS TO RUMORS ON CANCELLATION

As rumors begin to swirl about the PIAA canceling the entire fall sports season due to the coronavirus pandemic, PIAA’s executive director, Bob Lombardi, told PennLive on Thursday that the PIAA is not planning to cancel the fall sports season at next Wednesday’s meeting. Lombardi added the rumors are “unfounded” and that right now, the PIAA is looking ahead to what needs to be done to make sure fall sports can start. The High School football season is set to kick off on August 28th.

TRAFFIC CONCERNS NEAR MUNCY UPMC CONSTRUCTION SITE

Construction of Geisinger Muncy has drawn traffic concerns, with speeding in the area being a top the list. Supervisor Thomas Scheach told the Sun Gazette that the traffic “is creating mayhem” and “We’re asking people to please slow down.” According to the Sun Gazette, instillation of new signs advertising reduced speeds was anticipated for Thursday. Scheach also added the appropriate signage required for local police to use speed enforcement devices will be installed shortly.

 

SPORTS 7-10-20

NCAA

The Big Ten announced that they will play conference games this fall and will cancel all non-conference games due to the coronavirus pandemic, becoming the first FBS conference to make such a decision.

PGA

Tiger Woods announced he will play next week’s Memorial Tournament. It will be his first official event since the final round of the Genesis Invitational on February 16th.

NFL

As a part of their return to play plan, the NFL has eliminated any post game interactions within 6 feet of each other, including the popular trend of jersey swapping,in the 2020 season.

MLB

Even though the 2020 MLB season has yet to start, Major League Baseball released their 2021 regular season schedule yesterday. All 30 teams will open the 2021 season on April 1st.

HS Boys Basketball

Jamie Spencer was named the Head Boys Basketball Coach at St. John Neumann High School. Spencer has previous coaching experience in the county, having coached at Montoursville and Montgomery.

BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS JULY 7. 2020

BODY FOUND IN CLINTON COUNTY
Human remains were discovered along the Susquehanna River by fishermen in Pine Creek Township last Thursday.  State police at Lamar are investigating with Clinton County Coroner Zach Hanna.  According to the Sun Gazette, the remains are speculated to be those of 31 year old Alex Mardis who disappeared in October of 2019 last seen fishing in Wayne Township, but those reports were not confirmed.  The investigation is ongoing and no further details are available.

HIT AND RUN SENDS THREE TO HOSPITAL
A hit and run accident Sunday night in Crawford County involving an Amish buggy sent a young family to the hospital and SUV in question now located by police.  According to Erie News now, a black 2018 Chevrolet Traverse rear-ended the Amish buggy while traveling westbound on Canadohta Lake Road just west of the intersection with Route 89. The diver fled the scene.   A 23 year old woman was taken to UMPC Hamot and an 1 year old boy and an infant were life-flighted to UPMC Children’s Hospital in Pittsburgh.  The 24 year old man driving the buggy sustained minor injuries.   Spartansburg residents told media outlets that more crashes like these have happened recently in Altoona and Meadville.  No word on the condition of the victims today.

PENNDOT WILL WORK ON I-80 EAST AND WEST THROUGH JULY
Center Line Joint work continues this week on I80 east and west in West Buffalo and White Deer Townships this week.  There will be short term alternating lane closures eastbound between mile markers 199 and 2020 near the Mile Run exit and westbound between mile markers 207 and 204.  HRI incorporated will continue repairing the center line joint as well as the shoulders today through Friday July 24th.

WILLIAMSPORT LIBRARY OPEN TO BROWSE AGAIN WITH PRECAUTIONS
Precautions and protocols are in place that has allowed the James V. Brown Library to reopen for browsing throughout the facility. Summer programs have started again and the computer area, has been rearranged to allow for social distancing.  Fees for DVDs have been reinstated, and those with fines are asked to clear their accounts at the help desk. According to a statement by the library staff, they will continue to clean and sanitize areas frequently, and eturned materials will be quarantined for 72 hours. Plexiglass shields have also been installed in front of all desks.  The library is open 9 to 6 Monday to Friday, Saturday 9 to 2 and closed Sunday.

WILLIAMSPORT FIRE DISPLACES TWELVE PEOPLE
Another Williamsport house fire this week has left a dozen people homeless and firefighters battling the intense heat in the city.  According to the Sun Gazette, flames broke out in an exterior wall on the second floor of the 3 story unit at 614 Pine Street about 2pm Monday.  A family in one unit noticed smoke in their apartment and called 911.  Asecond-alarm was ordered, bringing Old Lycoming Township, South Williamsport and Montoursville volunteer firefighters to help breaking up the exterior wall and dousing any hidden hot spots. The local chapter of the American Red Cross  is helping the displaced families

FIREWORKS ORDINANCE COULD BE CHANGED
City Council may re-examine a city fireworks ordinance.  The ordinance now allows for their use seven days prior to July 4 and seven days after, providing the user is 150 feet from any structure. Some council members said there could be less legal days days before the holiday than exists now.   Some more powerful fireworks are available for sale in Pennsylvania over the last three years since the state statute was signed into law by Gov. Tom Wolf.  According to the Sun Gazette, as far as incidents in Lycoming County, state police at Montoursville responded to seven complaints of noise or fireworks between July 1 and Monday, as compared to two noise complaints from the same time in 2019.

AVIS ACCEPTS PAVING BID, SEEKING APPROVAL FROM BOROUGH
Five borough streets in Avis will be paved after the borough council there unanimously agreed to pass along a bid by Glenn O Habaker for 73,900 and 70 cents (just under $74k) at their latest in-person meeting yesterday.  According to the Sun Gazette, Clinton, Cliff and Kirby streets and Myrtle and Ivy alleys will be paved after a recommendation is sent to the streets committee borough engineer and the county municipal services for approval.  The funds will come from liquid fuels money and additional general funds.

MORE COVID-19 POSTPONEMENTS
There are a few more events and activities that have been officially cancelled this year in the wake of COVID-19.  The Sullivan County Fair board voted last week to postpone the fair held at the Sullivan County Fairgrounds in Forksville, September 1st to the 5th until 2021.  Montandon’s safety celebration, scheduled for Friday is also postponed with a new date to be announced.  And the season at Bucknell University’s Weis Center for the Performing Arts in Northumberland County will not host any public large-scale performances through December 2020.  In addition to local health and safety concerns officials there said that many of the international artists have cancelled their schedules.  According to the Sun Gazette, they are actively planning a Spring 2021 season with hopes that they will be able to perform.

SPORTS

NFL
The Chiefs and Super Bowl MVP quarterback Patrick Mahomes have reached agreement on a 10-year contract extension that ties him to Kansas City through the 2031 season, the team announced Monday.  League sources told ESPN’s Adam Schefter that the deal is worth $450 millionover the 10-year period and could be worth up to $503 million. The extension includes a $140 million injury guarantee, as well as a no-trade clause.  With his landmark payout over the next 12 seasons, Mahomes will have the richest valued contract in American professional sports

NBA
Los Angeles Lakers center Dwight Howard said he will be joining his team in Orlando  for the league’s restart at the end of the month.He will donate the remainder of his salary for the 2019-20 season — approximately $700,000 to his charitable initiative Breathe Again.  Howard, started the charity Breathe Again through his D12 Foundation in 2015 and is restarting the campaign in the wake of George Floyd’s death in Minneapolis .

Boxing promotions run by Floyd Mayweather, Bob Arum and Oscar De La Hoya and teams in MLS, NASCAR and IndyCar were among the sports organizations that navigated the federal loan programs to cope with the economic impact of the coronavirus pandemic. Data released Monday showed hundreds of thousands of Paycheck Protection Program recipients across a wide range of industries, and sports-related businesses were well represented. None of the four major North American sports leagues — the NFL, NBA, NHL and MLB — were among the businesses that applied.

President Donald Trump criticized the Washington Redskins and Cleveland Indians on Twitter for considering changes to their respective team names. The Redskins appear likely to change their name amid a nationwide movement to erase racially insensitive symbols, given the national focus on human rights and social justice

BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS JULY 6, 2020

Stonington State Police found a body Saturday in Northumberland County and have found no foul play in the incident. According to media outlets the body was found in a wooded area near Bates Road in East Cameron Township near Shamokin. Stonington Troopers say a known individual contacted them around 8:45 a.m. Saturday who tipped them off about situation. Troopers say the Northumberland County Coroner and deputy coroner assisted the police on the scene.

A Montoursville resident has been arrested for simple assault and terroristic threats after police say he attempted to strangled his mother who would not provide him with money for drugs.  Douglas Harding threatening his mother’s life and as she attempted to flee her home and call police, a neighbor saw the confrontation and called 911. Police say Harding was charged with one misdemeanor count of false imprisonment for allegedly holding the victim against her will.  He has been jailed in lieu of 75,000 dollar bail at the Lycoming county prison.

Grants will be available for cultural institutions in Pennsylvania, according to Governor Tom Wolf who recently announced the availability of the the Cultural and Museum Preservation Grant Program, through the federal CARES Act.  Twenty million dollars will be allotted for qualifying organizations for individual grants in amounts between $25k to $500k.  Applications are accepted through July 31st and you can register and find information about eligibility here.

The man known as the “Shepherd of the Streets” in Lycoming County  has announced his retirement.  According to the Sun Gazette, the Rev. J. Morris Smith, has submitted notification that he will retire from his position as head of The Shepherd Program effective Aug. 28. Rev. Smith was part of the United Churches of Lycoming County Program for 20 of the  32 years it has been successfully helping the community.  Rev. Gwen Bernstine, executive director of United Churches, said that the program will continue to operate under new leadership and they are seeking applicants for the position Smith held.   Smith and his wife, Barby, say they will move closer to family in the Kansas City, Missouri.

A home caught fire on the Fourth of July in Williamsport on the 600 block of Rose Street. According to the Sun Gazette at least 5 people that were family and friends of the homeowner were inside when the fire started. According to the Sun Gazette broke out around 3:40 pm setting off 2 fire alarms in the process and leaving 3 adults and 3 children homeless. Fire officials say the blaze was started when a child was playing with a lighter.  The local Red Cross is providing emergency assistance to the displaced victims.  Damage estimates reached about $45k

A naked man in Mill Hall man was tased last Thursday after allegedly assaulting a Jersey Shore police officer. According to the Tiadaghton Valley Regional Police Department, motorists noticed 34 year old Jason Kinley on the 200 block of Calvert street running around and yelling at cars going by around 10:45.  According to police the suspect was not in compliance with officers and continued to ask to be tased.  The Police then complied with his wishes.  Kinley is being held on charges of aggravated assault, resisting arrest, indecent exposure, simple assault, disorderly conduct, public drunkenness and harassment and was jailed at the Lycoming County Prison in lieu of $50,000 unsecured bail.

More than $4 million in federal coronavirus relief funding is on the way for Union County and the Commissioners there are determining how to use those funds moving forward.  A portion of those funds may be earmarked to expand wireless broadband internet access in the underserved western end of the county. According ot the Daily Item, Commissioner Stacy Richards said studies have been performed on expanding access in the county.  Areas targeted are the Shamokin Mountain near New Berlin and Jones Mountain in Hartley Township. The funding could be split up to use for more than one initiative, she said.

A statue of abolitionist Frederick Douglass was ripped from its base in Rochester, New York Friday, on the anniversary of one of his most famous speeches.  According to the National Examiner, police said the statue of Douglass was taken yesterday from Maplewood Park, a site along the Underground Railroad. Police say the statue was found near the Genesee River gorge about 50 feet from its pedestal and it had been damaged.  In Rochester on July 5, 1852, Douglass gave the speech saying a celebration of liberty is a sham in a nation that oppresses its Black citizens.

Sports
MLB
Under pressure from national racial movements in America, the Cleveland Indians said Friday night that they will review their long-debated nickname, which has been in place for 105 years.

Ex Philadelphia pitcher Tyson Brummett, 35, of Salt Lake City, died in a plane crash. Brummett was drafted by the Phillies BACK IN 2007 out of UCLA. A right-hander, Brummett’s appearance in the majors came in 2012, when he faced four batters, striking out two of them.

NBA
The NBA has announced a schedule for scrimmages happening at the Walt Disney World Resort. As the season gears back up you can expect 33 scrimmages set for between July 22nd and July 28th.

The Miami Heat have closed their training facility after positively testing a second player for COVID-19

NASCAR
A tire changer for NASCAR driver Ryan Blaney was taken to a hospital, evaluated and released after being injured Sunday early in the Brickyard 400.  Zachary Price was pinned between Blaney’s No. 12 Ford and Brennan Poole’s No. 15 Chevrolet as the result of a six-car pileup near the entrance of pit road 16 laps into the Cup series race. Five of the drivers were checked at Indianapolis Motor Speedway’s infield medical center and released. Blaney, meanwhile, returned to the race.

Justin Allgaier, the replacement for seven-time Cup champion Jimmie Johnson, was involved in a six-car pileup near the entrance of pit road 16 laps into the Cup series race and dropped out. Johnson’s streak of 663 consecutive starts ended after he tested positive for the coronavirus on Friday.

At seven laps from another close victory that haven’t worked out, Denny Hamlin went careening into the first-turn wall with a flat right-front tire, and Kevin Harvick beat Matt Kenseth off the final restart to win his second straight Brickyard 500 Sunday.

BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS JULY, 5TH 2020

WILLIAMSPORT 4TH OF JULY HOUSE FIRE

A home caught fire yesterday afternoon in Williamsport on the 600 block of rose street. According to the sun gazette at least 5 people that were family and friends of the homeowner were inside when the fire started. It broke out around 3:40 pm setting off 2 fire alarms in the process and leaving 3 adults and 3 children homeless. Cobirai Matthews, the home owner, was not home at the time. The local red cross is providing emergency assistance to the displaced victims.

DUI AND DRUG PARAPHERNALIA CHARGES PENDING

2 Northumberland county residents from Coal Township are facing drug charges after being pulled over for traffic violations by state police on route 61 in Coal Township. According to media outlets 21 year old Kaitlyn Anderson and 26 year old Stephan Thomas were arrested on Monday, with the driver being charged with a DUI and the passenger for drug paraphernalia. Charges are currently pending.

BODY FOUND IN NORTHUMBERLAND COUNTY

Stonington State Police found a body yesterday morning in Northumberland county  and are investigating the matter. According to media outlets the body was found in a wooded area near Bates Road in East Cameron Township. Stonington Troopers say a known individual contacted them around 8:45 a.m. Saturday. Troopers say the investigation is ongoing and is being assisted by the Northumberland County Coroner and deputy coroner on scene.

DECLARATION OF DISASTER EMERGENCY EXTENDED

The Lycoming County commissioners have agreed to extend the county’s Declaration of Disaster Emergency. This helps the county remain eligible for government funding for issues related to the coronavirus. According to the Sun Gazette, after the declaration the commissioners discussed about the COVID-19 guidelines, involving the consideration of wearing masks, after announcing the week before that mask’s were optional in county facilities, a decision later reversed by Dr Rachel Lavine. All decisions made are in an effort to get Lycoming county back to normal as quick as possible while providing enough support for residents and businesses in need.

 

SPORTS

NFL

Earlier this week, the NFL decided to shorten its preseason from four weeks to two to account for the coronavirus pandemic and the ways in which it’s affecting the league’s ability to start the season.

MLB

Ex Philadelphia pitcher Tyson Brummett, 35, of Salt Lake City, died in a plane crash. Brummett was drafted by the Phillies BACK IN 2007 out of UCLA. A right-hander, Brummett’s appearance in the majors came in 2012, when he faced four batters, striking out two of them.

NBA

The NBA has announced a schedule for scrimmages happening at the Walt Disney World Resort. As the season gears back up you can expect 33 scrimmages set for between July 22nd and July 28th.

BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS JULY, 4TH 2020

NUDE MAN TAZED

A naked man in Mill Hall man was tazed last night after allegedly assaulting a Jersey Shore police officer. Motorists noticed 34 year old Jason Kinley on the 200 block of calvert street running around and yelling at cars going by around 10:45 last night. Police assume it is drug related.

DOMESTIC INCIDENT BRINGS POLICE

Montoursville resident Douglas Harding has been arrested for simple assault and terroristic threats among other things. According to the sun gazette, Harding was upset his mother wouldn’t give him money to buy drugs before strangling. When he loosened his grip the mother got up and said she was going to the police when Harding retaliated by threatening her life and forcing her back into the house. A neighbor saw the confrontation and alerted police who quickly arrived on scene. He has been arraigned with a 75,000 dollar bail at the Lycoming county prison.

BLOOMSBURG FAIR CONCERTS POSTPONED

Bloomsburg fair has postponed the John Pardi, Brad Paisley and Chicago concert for this year until 2021.  Fans will enjoy the same lineup for the next year if you decide to not get a refund.  Do nothing if you’d like to keep your seat assignments and tickets already purchased. Those wanting refunds can take steps through the ticket vendor with this link. The Bloomsburg fair main office is closed today and tomorrow in observance of the holiday weekend.

BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS JULY 3, 2020

Facemasks are once again required in county buildings.  According to the Lycoming County Board of Commissioners all members of the public that enter county government facilities will be required to wear masks in keeping with the Order of the Secretary of the Pennsylvania Department of Health, Dr. Rachel Levine, who signed the order this week.  The Pennsylvania Department of Health yesterday, confirmed 832 additional positive cases of the virus, with a statewide total to 88,074. All 67 counties in Pennsylvania have cases of COVID-19.  In Lycoming County there are 193 positive cases to date, Clinton 80 cases, Sullivan six cases and Tioga 25 cases.

Water and sewer customers in Lycoming County who are having a hard time getting caught up with the water bill, have been given a break.  According to the Sun Gazette, the Lycoming County Water and Sewer Authority decided that failure to pay monthly charges will not result in shut-off of service.  Penalties will be waived again for the third month in a row.  The Authority, who met for the first time in person this week since March, will revisit the policy in August .

The controversy over using the Red Raider Mascot which has recently been brought under fire in the Bellefonte Area School district, caused the school board meeting last Tuesday to be packed with the public, to make comments about the issue.  According to the Sun Gazette, board president, Jon Guizar recognized public comments for over 45 minutes during the meeting. Mostly those against the mascot were not current residents within the school district, some of whom cautioned the district not to get into a costly legal battle.  Most current residents were proud of the history of the Red Raider mascot which first appeared in a Bellefonte publication in 1936.  The mascot issue was not on the board’s agenda, but was driven by recent online petitions of Facebook groups.

The world’s largest flying American flag will be hoisted and draped between two Allison Cranes tomorrow from 9am til 9pm at the former Susquehanna Supply Company site, just west of Baird Communication off Maynard street in Williamsport, all due to the hard work Allison Crane and Rigging, the Williamsport Lycoming Chamber of Commerce and the Pennslyvania National Guard of Lycoming county. The set the night to music fireworks celebration sponsored by backyard Broadcasting will take place at the Lycoming County Fairgrounds in Hughesville and the public coming to park at near facility is asked to use 180 to Route 405 N due to construction at the 405 intersection.

Even with the order from the Pennsylvania Department of Health, requiring social distancing and masks be worn at all times when community members are using public transportation, River Valley Transit has announced that with the short notice thay are unable to require their staff enforce the state mandate.  According to the Sun Gazette, Interim General Manager Adam Winder said a passenger waiting in the heat will not be denied entry on the bus even if they do not have a face covering.  He said they are working to develop a plan moving forward.  Scrubbing down and disinfecting of the busses is part of the employee’s daily routine since the outbreak occurred.

The Montgomery borough Council voted last Monday to terminate Officer Eric Winters in a 5-0 vote, with Laurel Green and Susan Andrews abstaining from the vote. According to the Sun Gazette, after an internal investigation and a review of the results, the council made the decision to terminate officer Winters.  He had been promoted to corporal in October 2019 and helped lead a police regionalization which ultimately stalled.  The investigation results are a personnel matter and will not  be made public.

An Athens Area High School freshman has won a scholarship for her entry in the “No Excuses Billboard Design Contest”.  According to PennDOT,  Karlee Bartlow’s billboard design, “Stay Alert, Don’t Get Hurt” featuring a distracted driver, provided a $500 scholarship for her efforts and an additional $500 for her school. The Highway Safety Network (HSN), Athens Area High School and State Farm Insurance sponsored the contest and her work will be displayed on a billboard in Bradford County during National Teen Driver Safety Week in October. According to PennDOT data, in 2018, there were 6,453 crashes involving 16- or 17-year-old drivers resulting in 26 fatalities

Jersey Shore’s Town Meeting, a week long celebration during the 4th of July for the community and the surrounding communities will now go on July 20th through July 25th.  According to event organizers they waited until the county was in the green phase and to have approval from the borough council.  There will be some changes this year – no “Baby Sweetheart” contest or Tiadaghton Queen contest, however, last year’s Tiadaghton Queen runner-up, Courtney Lehman, Jersey Shore student, will be crowned. The Thursday night parade and the Saturday fireworks show will go on as planned. The route for the parade will go down Locust Street, across Broad Street, then up Thompson Street to finish at the Celebration Field.  Lee Springman, Jersey Shore student, will be this year’s Town Crier.

SPORTS
NFL
FedEx, which has naming rights to the stadium in which the Washington Redskins play, made a request yesterday that the team change its nickname. FedEx, Nike and PepsiCo each received letters signed by 87 investment firms and shareholders worth a combined $620 billion asking the companies to sever ties with the team unless it changes its controversial name. FedEx paid $205 million to the Redskins for naming rights to the stadium in 1998 in a deal that runs through 2025.

What’s traditionally known as the Black national anthem called “Lift Ev’ry Voice And Sing,” is expected to be performed live or played before every Week 1 NFL game, as well as the league considering other measures to recognize victims of police brutality in the upcoming season.  The song would be performed before “The Star-Spangled Banner,” The NFL’s season opener is scheduled for Sept. 10, with the Kansas City Chiefs hosting the Houston Texans.

NBA
As a precaution, the LA Clippers shut down the team’s practice facility on Thursday after getting a positive coronavirus test within the traveling party headed to Orlando, Florida, for the league restart.  The Clippers could reopen the facility for workouts prior to the team’s planned Wednesday departure for Florida.  The Denver Nuggets and Brooklyn Nets temporarily shut down their facilities last week for the same reason. Teams are allowed to send a 35-person group to the NBA’s campus at Walt Disney World Resort as part of the 22-team restart.

GOLF
The PGA of America is renaming its Horton Smith Award after a review of history revealed Smith defended the Caucasian-only membership clause when he served as PGA president in the early 1950s. The PGA of America board voted to rename it the PGA Professional Development Award honoring PGA members for outstanding contributions to professional education.  The Caucasian-only clause was part of the PGA bylaws from 1934 until it was rescinded in 1961. Smith was president of the PGA of America from 1952 to 1954.

BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS JULY 2, 2020

MASK WEARING MANDATORY NOW
Governor Wolf yesterday expanded the business safety order originally signed in April of this year that requires the wearing of masks in businesses, with a new order signed by Dr. Levine that makes mask-wearing mandatory when residents leave their homes, effective immediately in Pennsylvania.  The new order is authorized under the Disease Prevention and Control Act, and outlines the situations when a mask must be worn and including a few limited exceptions.  Dr Levine said, Pennsylvanians must not be complacent while continuing to mitigate the spread of COVID-19 in the commonwealth.  You can read the full order here.

STATE POLICE CLOSE STATION FOR DECONTAMINATION
The Pennsylvania State Police said yesterday that they closed the Troop F – Milton station for decontamination for the day after several officers tested positive for the virus statewide.  All service calls were rerouted to surrounding stations.  There is no station specific data as to who tested positive due to privacy concerns, but in a press release the State Police say there are 10 enlisted troopers and one civilian on leave due to their positive tests.  Find information about the State Police response at psp.pa.gov.

HIGH COURT STRIKES DOWN REPUBLICAN ACTION AGAINST SHUT-DOWN
Pennsylvania’s high court has ruled against a Republican effort to end Democratic Gov. Tom Wolf’s shutdown orders. Wednesday a resolution passed with mostly GOP votes and could have ended Wolf’s emergency disaster declaration that led to the closure of “non-life-sustaining” businesses, bans on large gatherings and orders for people to isolate at home. According to the Associate Press, the high court ruled without hearing an oral argument after 2 senior Republican senators sued to enforce their resolution.

BLOOMSBURG FAIR CONCERTS POSTPONED
bloomsburg fair has postponed the John Pardi, Brad Paisley and Chicago concert for this year until 2021.  Fans heading to the fair next year will enjoy the same lineup for the next year.  Dnothing if you’d like to keep your seat assignments and tickets already purchased. Those wanting refunds can take steps through the ticket vendor with a link to the details here. The Bloomsburg fair main office is closed today and tomorrow in observance of the holiday weekend.

SELINSGORVE POOL TO OPEN TOMORROW
The pool is opening in Selinsgrove tomorrow at noon after a temporary repair and the COVID-19 climate shortened their season.  According to Selinsgrove Area Recreation, swimmers will need to adhere to CDC guidelines when using the facilities with sliding boards, diving boards, and water fountains closed. Season pool passes have been discounted due to the shortened season.  They are also asking for donations for upcoming major repairs, renovations, and resurfacing which is expected to cost about $200,000,

LOYALSOCK TOWNSHIP CRASH UPDATE
Names have been released in the crash that occurred on East Third Street in Loyalsock Township Tuesday around 5:30pm.  According to State Police on Montoursville, 46 year old Jerry Baldwin of Louisiana was the operator of one motorcycle involved in the crash, his passenger was 26 year old Krystle Richardson of Cogan Station and the operator of the second motorcycle, 26 year old Tiara Gough also from Cogan Station were all three seriously injured when 25 year old Ashley Wilson of Millmont attempted a left turn out of the parking lot near Tinsman Avenue and collided with both bikes.  Wilson was also injured in the crash and all four were taken by ambulance to UPMC Williamsport.  According to the Sun Gazette the motorcyclists are each recovering from serious injuries.

The K-9 officer Mariska was used in a recent search of the Northumberland County prison and she turned up narcotics which led to an investigation. According to police, narcotics belonging to a contracted employee were found on Thursday, June 18 at around 11:30am. Media reports say Watsontown police assisted the Coal Township police department with information about the search.

Federal emergency aid for renters in Pennsylvania hit hard financially during the pandemic is still in the works as Gov. Tom Wolf’s ban on foreclosures and evictions nears an expiration.  The application period for aid begins Monday to the Pennsylvania Housing Finance Agency. Wolf and state lawmakers are devoting at least $150 million in federal coronavirus emergency relief money for rental assistance of $750 per month for up to six months. Assistance is contingent on the renter losing their job after March 1, or seeing their income drop by at least 30% due to the pandemic.

SPORTS
NFL
The NFL has shortened its 2020 preseason to two games, cancelling Weeks 1 and 4 of its original preseason schedule, as well as a canceled Aug. 8 Hall of Fame game. Most players will still report to training camp on July 28, but the first preseason games won’t be played until Aug. 20-24. The second week of preseason games is scheduled for Aug. 27-31. Some re-shuffling of the original preseason schedule for Weeks 2 and 3 are underway, as each team will play one home game and one on the road.
NASCAR
The NASCAR Cup Series car driven by Corey LaJoie will have a “Trump 2020” paint scheme for nine races, including Sunday’s Brickyard 400 at Indianapolis Motor Speedway, following a sponsorship by Patriots of America PAC, which is supporting the reelection bid of President Donald Trump.  The No. 32 Ford Mustang, owned by Go Fast Racing and will have a red, white and blue paint scheme.

NBA
In the upcoming August and November elections, Michigan residents will be able to use the Henry Ford Detroit Pistons Performance Center in Detroit as a “satellite center” to register and vote on site.  For the primaryon  Aug. 4th and the Nov. 3 elections there will be company-wide paid days off to staff members so they can vote and volunteer as election workers in the community. Rallying others to do the same is a big purpose.  The Pistons have also collaborated with the Michigan Secretary of State’s office to drive voter participation and awareness in addition building a voter registration page into the Pistons.com website.

NHL
The national HockEy League has determined that Edmonton and Toronto are going to be the hub cities to hos5t games when the league resumes the season.  The original hope was to have one sitein Canada nd the other in the US, but with spiking coronavirus cases, the league decided on two Candian cities. The players are expected to vote on a return to play proposal tomorrow or Saturday

 

 

 

 

BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS JULY 1, 2020

A serious accident shut down part of the Golden Strip last evening just before 5:30 closing the roadway and sending all four people involved to UPMC Williamsport.  State police say 2 motorcycles, one with two passengers, traveling east on East Third Street and a Chevy Equinox exiting from TGI Friday’s parking area collided in a hard hitting crash.  Two motorcycle passengers were wearing helmets in the wreck that occurred near Tinsman Avenue.  According to the Sun Gazette,  four ambulances and several paramedics were dispatched and traffic was detoured off of East Third from Westminster drive to Clayton Avenue.  The road was closed for over 2 hours while police reconstructed the scene.

The Lycoming County commissioners have agreed to extend the county’s Declaration of Disaster Emergency helps the county remain eligible for government funding for issues related to the coronavirus.  According to the Sun Gazette, the commissioners continued the meeting which was described as arguing about COVID-19 guidelines, and the consideration of wearing masks, after announcing last week that mask wearing is optional in county facilities.  The Comms considered the lower coronavirus numbers in our rural area and considered if wearing masks was the answer of not for moving back to normal in Lycoming County.  At this time the PA Department of Health has said there are 182 confirmed cases of the virus in Lycoming County and 24 deaths reported.

A $91 thousand management agreement was approved yesterday by Williamsport City Council between the Endless Mountains Transportation Authority and the city that will be in place until June of 2021.  After the desire to further discuss the agreement from last week’s meeting, council this week, voted 6-0 to adopt the plan that will clarify duties of the 5-member management team and differentiate the number of hours spent working and what type of work is performed.  According to the Sun Gazette, Mayor Slaughter said an agreement like this has not come before City Council in several years. The mayor said the search for a new general manager for River Valley Transit will begin this week.

There will be another free milk giveaway in Montour County today. The Montour County Farm Bureau will giveaway about 1,600 gallons of whole milk, for free, at the Montour-Delong Fairgrounds today from 1-5pm.. She said the giveaway is Coronavirus Food Assistance Program grant funded, it is being put on by the American Dairy Association, and the milk is coming from the Harrisburg Dairies Inc to help families in need. There will also be free milkshakes (like the ones at the Farm Show) for the first 500 people at the event.  The Montour-Delong Fairgrounds is near Washingtonville, along Route 254, at 5848 Broadway Road.

Gov. Tom Wolf will sign the first bills passed by Pennsylvania’s Legislature this week in response to widespread protests over police brutality.  The two bills passed the Senate unanimously.  One of the bills prevents bad officers from continuing to find employment in police departments. The other bill requires officers to receive cultural sensitivity training, instruction on de-escalation and harm-reduction techniques and a mental health evaluation after an incident in which the officer used lethal force.

If you’re collecting unemployment at this time, you may be eligible to extend those benefits for an additional 13 weeks, according to the PA Department of Labor and Industry which announced the state’s Unemployment Compensation Extended Benefits program yesterday.  Extended Benefits (EB) are additional UC benefits payable to qualified workers whenever the state’s unemployment rate reaches a certain level determined by law. The last time the EB program was triggered in Pennsylvania was 2009.  The current extended benefits period began May 3, but benefits are not payable until an individual has exhausted PEUC benefits. Important information about the EB program follows and will be sent by mail to all individuals who potentially qualify for the additional benefits.

Small businesses in Pennsylvania can begin to apply for  up to 50 thousand dollars in grants for relief from COVID-19 as of yesterday.  The COVID-19 Relief Pennsylvania Statewide Small Business Assistance program is in place to assist small businesses that have been economically impacted during the pandemic. This is not a first-come, first-served program. There will be multiple rounds of application windows. Application window for the first round of funding will remain open for 10 business days. Applications will continue to be accepted after 10 business days but will be considered for future rounds of funding with additional rounds will be announced soon. You can applay at pabusinessgrants.com or find more information about the program on WILQ

Fireworks in Tioga County will take place on Sunday July 5th, launching from Mansfield University’s T2 parking lot after the original plan to hold the event in Mansfield’s Smythe Park was cancelled due to COVID-19.  The Independence day fireworks in Mansfield are sponsored by the Mansfield Chamber of Commerce and the Mansfield VFW and the public is encouraged to not gather in the streets of the borough and to continue to practice social distancing while watching.  The University parking lot is the highest point on campus and the display should be visible from most areas of the borough and some areas of Richmond Twp.

SPORTS
NBA
With coronavirus cases on the rise and some teams closing facilities due to positive tests, NBA commissioner Adam Silver says he still remains confident about the NBA’s plan to safely resume play, but admits that a spread of COVID-19 into the NBA community could bring the league to a halt again.  Silver said they look at the data on a daily basis and that the league continues to work with a panel of scientists, doctors and experts to determine how to proceed if there is significant spread of the virus.

NHL
NHL players who are due signing bonuses on July 1 are expected to be paid the more than $300 million due to be paid today. The Toronto Maple Leafs lead the league with roughly $60 million owed. The agreement to pay players and not defer was made yesterday between the NHL and the Players Association. The two sides are in ongoing negotiations about the league’s plan to restart with a 24-team tournament in two hub cities this summer. The sides have yet to finalize the health and safety protocols for games or announce the hub cities they will use.

MLB
Even though Major League Baseball has created the guidelines to resume play in 2020, there are still risks of illness in the league since HIPPA regulations will keep them from being able to identify those players who have tested positive for the coronavirus.  Major League Baseball also said yesterday that a team will not specifically announce a COVID-19 injured list placement for a player who is removed from the club after testing positive. The federal law restricting release of medical information without a patient’s consent or knowledge means that only players can reveal their positive test status.

MiLB
According to Major League Baseball, Minor league baseball is cancelled  for the season due to the coronavirus outbreak.  Since the league relies heavily on gate revenue, a season without fans would not be possible.  Players will use the year of development and may end the baseball career of some journeymen.

 

GOVERNOR MAKES MASKS A PRIORITY
Governor Tom Wolf and Dr. Rachel Levine had an outdoor press conference yesterday with Doug Neidig, the Chair of the Board of Directors at UPMC Pinnacle Health Care in Harrisburg to thank health care workers in attendance and throughout the Commonwealth, who have been on the front line of the pandemic.  In addition, Governor Wolf said that while he was proud of Pennsylvanians in the last few weeks as we had lower case numbers than other states in the country, but with the contagious virus still uncontrolled, we are starting to see an uptick in numbers in certain pockets of the population again.  Wolf emphasized how mask wearing is an important part of battling COVID-19.  He said wearing a mask is not political but practical to keep everyone safe.  Mask wearing continues to be required in Pennsylvania businesses.

FATAL BICYCLE ACCIDENT
State police say a 15 year old  from Rebuck died after a bicycle accident on Monday.  Troopers at Stonington say the unidentified minor was at the intersection of Schwaben Creek Road and Sliding Hill Road at 7 in the morning and rode in front of a 2011 Chevrolet Silverado being driven by Daniel J. Ferste, of Dornsife.  According to the Daily Item, Ferster, who was going about 40 miles per hour, attempted to avoid the bicyclist.  Volunteers from Mahantongo Valley and Klingerstown Fire Company responded to the accident in Upper Mahanoy Township, Northumberland County.  The teen was flown to Geisinger where he died as a result of his injuries.

RELOCATED TESTING SITES IN MONTOURSVILLE
UPMC will relocate their previous makeshift COVID-19 outpatient collection site at 609 Brandon Avenue in Williamsport to a new location in Montoursville next week.  According to the Sun Gazette, Dr. Rutul Dalal said the climate-controlled outpatient lab at 900 Plaza Drive will help the hospital system ramp up testing abilities, giving quicker results since results can be acquired in house and help staff to be prepared in case there is a surge in testing.  Those who have been referred by a physician are being scheduled to use this new site and there will be a separate entrance for specific COVID-19 testing

Knoebels Amusement Resort has announced they will attempt to preserve as much summer as possible and reopen to guests tomorrow.  Owner Brian Knoebel said the hours for the first few weeks will be from noon til 8pm with individual pay-per-ride tickets for just over 30 rides and the majority of shops and food stands open.  There will be new rigorous cleaning routines, hand sanitizer stations, sneeze guards in shops, and parking lot management if necessary.   Additional rides could open and additional hiring could take place as the weeks progress.  Details at Knoebles dot com

Chesapeake Energy, a shale drilling pioneer that led the energy boom in the United States has filed for bankruptcy protection.   The company based in Oklahoma City said its debt load is nearing $9 billion and entered a plan with lenders to cut its debt and continue to operate as usual during the bankruptcy process. According to the associated Press, the oil and gas company used unconventional techniques to extract oil and gas from the ground, a method that has come under scrutiny because of its environmental impact. Chesapeake grew fast under one-time CEO Aubrey McClendon who was charged with conspiracy to rig bids  and then died soon after in a vehicle accident in 2016 which was determined an accident.

The  Department of Community and Economic Development Secretary Dennis Davin announced that the Pennsylvania Industrial Development Authority (PIDA), Pennsylvania Minority Business Development Authority (PMBDA), and Commonwealth Financing Authority (CFA) will be extending business loan deferrals by three additional calendar months. According to Davin, the deferrals will provide temporary relief allowing Pennsylvania businesses to bounce back from the economic impact of pandemic.  For details about your specific load requirements go to dced.pa.gov/

A police officer in Lycoming County was on paid leave out of caution that he had possibly contracted the coronavirus, but the tests of relatives in question have come back negative and is back to work.  According to the Sun Gazette, one officer on the Montoursville Police department was out for 3 days while awaiting the outcome, and no other officers have tested positive.  One South Williamsport officer with underlying health issues took personal and vacation time to avoid complications during the pandemic.

Earlier this month, a man from Mill Hall and other local fishermen were recognized during Family Fishing Day at Hills Creek Lake, according to the DCNR.  John Baney’s largest bluegill weighed .527 pounds.  Brett Shirk of Blanchard caught the largest bass at 6.21 pounds and the largest stringer of game fish at 29.79 pounds, and Ed Hicks caught the largest Crappie and Perch at the Tioga County Tournament.

SPORTS
NBA

The NBA and National Basketball Players Association are planning to paint “Black Lives Matter” on the court inside both sidelines in all three arenas the league will use at the Walt Disney World Resort when it resumes the 2019-20 season late next month in Orlando, Florida, league sources told ESPN. The WNBA is also discussing painting “Black Lives Matter” on the court when it begins its abbreviated 2020 season at the IMG Academy in Bradenton, Florida, sources said.

 

Brooklyn Nets center DeAndre Jordan has tested positive for the coronavirus and opted out of next month’s Orlando, Florida, restart with his team.  Jordan’s agent with Excel Sports informed management of the decision on Monday

NHL
The National Hockey league has allowed small groups of players to practice at team facilities, but now,  26 out of 250 players have tested positive for COVID-19 since June 8th.  The Tampa Bay Lightning had to shut down their facilities earlier this month after 3 players tested positive, but it has since reopened.

BACKYARD BROADCASTING LOCAL NEWS JUNE 29, 2020

An alarming spike in COVID-19 cases in Allegheny County is causing the county health department there to halt on-site consumption of alcohol in bars and restaurants starting at 5pm Tuesday.  Bars and restaurants can remain open but won’t be allowed to serve alcohol other than takeout options.  According to officials at Pittsburgh’s county health department, the majority of new cases in Allegheny County are in people within the age bracket of 19-49 with an average age of 27 – many of whom spend more time in a social bar scene.

A fatal accident involving 3 vehicles occurred Friday on Route 45 in Danville.  According to the Standard-Journal,  62 year old Donald L. Stephens of Danville, was traveling west on Route 45 near Hobbes Road in West Chillisquaque Township after noon Friday. When Police say, 25 year old Robert S. Delbo of  Lewisburg, was in the eastbound lane and swerved around the vehicle in front of him hitting Stephens’s 2005 Mercury Grand Marquis head on. Stephens was pronounced dead at the scene by the Northumberland County Coroner.  Delbo was taken by ambulance to Geisinger Medical Center in Danville with unknown injuries. Those in the 3rd car were not injured.  Route 45 was closed in both directions for several hours.

A petition begun by an anonymous person on the website Change.org is calling for the firing of two Williamsport Police officers citing alleged misconduct, has gained over 1200 signatures or 4.5 percent of the city’s population in two weeks.  According to North Central PA dot com, court documents show that Officers Joshua Bell and Clinton Gardner’s actions while on-duty have been legally questioned at least four times.  Williamsport Mayor Derek Slaughter said the petition has not been submitted and that it’s necessary for the accuser to bring forth evidence of the acts before he can investigate the issue.  There is no legal obligation for the city to respond to the petition.

It has been announced that the 75th Annual Mummers’ Parade in South Williamsport will be held on October 17th at 2pm. According to a social media post, organizers of the parade are asking for participation from volunteers and are planning a small carnival afterward at the Southside Park with circus acts, some concessions, and a few children’s rides with fireworks afterwards for the community. In the event of heavy rain, the rain date will be October 18, at the same time.  Those who want to enter the parade can fill out an entry form.

Twelve more counties moved from the yellow to green phase of COVID-19 reopening: Berks, Bucks, Chester, Delaware, Erie, Lackawanna, Lancaster, Lehigh, Montgomery, Northampton, Philadelphia, and Susquehanna.  However, health department officials in Allegheny county are experiencing a spike in COVID 19 cases and have reinstated some mitigation efforts by halting all on-site consumption of alcohol in bars and restaurants starting at 5pm Tuesday.  They remain in the green phase under caution.  Lebanon county who saw higher case numbers after attempting an early opening and the final remaining yellow county, will go green on July 3.

A group of people gathered in Montoursville to march and protest systemic racism in our society.  According to the Sun Gazette, the social justice group began  at the Rite-Aid in Montoursville and headed down Broad Street to the corner of Loyalsock Avenue.  In addition, Williamsport Area School  Board has responded to the community focus on repairing racial inequalities,   by passing a resolution last week to support the development of an anti-racist school climate.  Superintendent, Dr. Timothy Bowers said the board is working on professional development in relation to this issue and is included as a topeic for goals in the 2020-21 school year.

The City Zoning Hearing Board has recently approved a no kill cat shelter operated by the Lycoming County Animal Protection society to open at 610 Washington Blvd.  According to the Sun Gazette, city zoning officer, Gary Knarr said that the three to nothing vote in favor of the shelter was recently made by Marylou Baldys, Janett McDermott and Michele Frey. The project must still be approved by city council before beginning operations but further zoning approval is no longer necessary.

The Pennsylvania Department of health has issued the green phase guidelines for Pre-k to 12 sports as well as collegiate and professional sports in the state for players coaches and spectators.  In all sports, in addition to following CDC guidelines, athletes will be screened, there will be sanitizing of shared equipment and no sharing of water coolers or fountains.  Coaches and other adults will wear face coverings.  In pro sports in PA, gatherings and practices are limited to 250 people and no spectators will be allowed.  In collegiate sports spectators will be allowed while practicing social distancing.  The full health and safety guide for sports is available HERE.

SPORTS
NASCAR
Kevin Harvick won the first of two NASCAR Cup races in front of no fans this weekend at Pocono and then started 20th on Sunday when Denny Hamlin’s crew pulled off a masterful final pit stop putting Harvick in second at Sunday’s Pocono 350.  Rain and lightning forced several delays early but there were no accidents or delays –  Erik Jones, Chase Elliott and Aric Almirola completed the top 5.

NFL
The NFL fined the New England Patriots $1.1 million and took away a third-round pick in the 2021 draft among punishments for their television crew’s filming the field and sideline during a Dec. 8 game between the Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns.  In addition, the Patriots’ television production crews will not be allowed to shoot any games during the 2020 season.

Former NFL MVP and previous Carolina Panther Cam Newton has  reached an agreement with the New England Patriots to join the team after quarterback Tom Brady left to play for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.  According to patriots sources, Newton was a low-risk, high reward player factoring in recovering from his recent foot surgery and a modest contract.

MLB
The reigning World Series Champs, theWashington Nationals are set to host the New York Yankees on Opening Day at Nationals Park in washington DC.  The 60 game season should start July 23rd or 34th and go through September 27th

NBA
Oklahoma City Thunder guard Chris Paul, president of the National Basketball Players Association, said the players’ union and the league are collaborating to allow players to wear jerseys with personalized social justice, social cause or charity messages on their backs instead of last names during the upcoming restart of the NBA season.  The personalized statements on jerseys are part of a long list of social justice messages the players plan to make through the remainder of the season, which restarts July 30 in Orlando, Florida.

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