Today in PA | A PennLive daily news briefing with Claudia Dimuro

Penn has been hacked, and those who did it claim they’ve got their hands on information concerning “wealthy donors” including former President Joe Biden. U.S. Steel has announced a multi-year, multi-billion-dollar plan. This college will offer free tuition (based on certain parameters). And for just $2, a critical habitat gains protection. 

A multi-county drug bust has seen over 100 people arrested and the confiscation of both drugs and firearms. The southwestern part of the state is seeing a decline in the number of foster parents. Another day, another lottery winner. Plus, a brilliant celestial event will take place soon. 

Pennsylvania is home to the second oldest active military base in the country. And its impressive (and very dark in some aspects) history has led to quite a few ghost stories over the years. 

Smoke shops are “a public health crisis unfolding in plain sight,” according to a report based upon a grand jury probe. Officials want to take the pains to keep track of AI content’s origins (or “provenance,” if you will). A grocery chain wants your pennies. Also, a historian explains why a stadium might be haunted. 

Five confirmed cases of rabies have been reported in Northampton County. Air traffic controllers got a whopping $0 paycheck. Here’s what people are hoping might happen now that a new Costco’s opened up. Plus, could this be the return of the landline?

The state AG’s office has provided an update on fentanyl seizures. Pennsylvania and other states are seeing new confirmed cases of avian flu, causing concerns of a resurgence. Here’s what the weather forecast for Halloween is currently. Speaking of which, apparently none of Pennsylvania’s cities are among the top best to celebrate the holiday. 

ERs in Philadelphia have seen a 110 percent increase in drug-related seizures over the past five years. A health system is dropping UnitedHealthcare next year. Pennsylvania’s construction industry is experiencing a slowdown. Finally, time to nominate “River of the Year.” 

A township has tabled an ordinance concerning data centers. Philadelphia “ain’t playing” when it comes to illegal dumping. Daylight saving time’s end is nigh. Plus, a parenting guide came with a touch of real-life romance. 

The PUC will investigate a proposed rate hike. Drivers, please keep your eyes peeled for deer. Where one bridge closes another bridge opens. And that’s not how you spell “Michael.” 

Wawa has issued a voluntarily recall as a “precautionary measure.” A bill that would preserve the anonymity of lottery winners of $100,000 or more has advanced. It’s special firearms season, so please wear orange in certain areas. Plus, there’s a big chance you’ll see Bigfoot in Pennsylvania.

Officials and experts are expressing concerns over the overdoses being attributed to products sold at gas stations, vape shops and convenience stores. A zinc battery manufacturer is expanding in Pennsylvania. The state’s been recognized — again — as being a great place to raise a family. Also, it’s a fry-eating contest with a sting.

Millions of Pennsylvanians won’t receive SNAP benefits next month. A bill would require naloxone in schools. These October gas prices are the lowest they’ve been in years. Plus, how ‘bout them apples?

Americans are currently being besieged by billions of robocalls a month. Here’s how to find out where your former Rite Aid prescription records went. A popular rice has been recalled. Also, heavy is the crown.

Parents and teachers have voiced their concern over multiple incidents of student violence at a Montgomery Township elementary school. A hospital system will lay off hundreds of workers. Philadelphia homicide detectives are solving cases at the highest rate seen in decades. Plus, apparently Pennsylvania is very haunted.

The state has approved higher Affordable Care Act (ACA) health insurance premiums for next year. An EMS worker in Westmoreland County has filed a complaint against Teamsters. A lot of indie venues across the state just can’t turn a profit. Finally, this museum invites you to dance like you can’t stop.

Two state lawmakers want to make sure AI chatbot users have privacy protections. A township in Montgomery County just got one step closer to banning gas-powered leaf blowers. It costs quite the pretty penny to get married in Pennsylvania (although certainly not as much as some other states). Lastly, this October sky has a double feature.

A bill that would mandate cellphone-free school days has been introduced. Medicare open enrollment starts tomorrow. The Pennsylvania Turnpike is giving people a glimpse of what interchanges without tollbooths look like. And a bunch of tires were dumped by an airport.

A judge has ruled that — if they aren’t sold — Crozer-Chester Medical Center and Springfield Hospital can be abandoned. There’s a new kind of auto theft that cops want you to know about. These citizens are among those paying the most out of their salaries for groceries. Also, what the duck?

Overdose deaths in Philadelphia continue to fall. The 2026 COLA has yet to be announced, but some experts are concerned over current projections. One area’s sewage is another man’s energy source. Lastly, students are looking into what could very well be Lancaster County’s oldest tavern.

A “Grandparent Scam” is on the rise. A bill that would grant striking workers unemployment benefits has advanced. Glamping is coming to several state parks next year. Plus, bovine intervention caused a bit of traffic the other day.

SEPTA commuters are experiencing a rash of delays and cancellations after feds issued that Emergency Order. The state is adding more parking spaces for long-haul truckers. The fate of the Monroeville Mall has been revealed. Also, if you want to see a UFO, Pennsylvania’s the place to be.

A rise in coffee prices is proving to be “too much” for a number of consumers in Pennsylvania. Philadelphia is looking to the people to help develop a new public safety plan. The state got fed approval to continue building EV charging stations. Finally, the city has been recognized as one of the best for vegan and vegetarians.

A database could list your name if you’re suspected of child abuse, even without a conviction. Beef prices have hit a record high. A medicare program offers free, enhanced support for the families of dementia patients. Lastly, a small city in Pennsylvania has been listed among America’s best.

Pennsylvania’s budget impasse continues, and taxpayers might be the ones to pay for it. The NTSB has urged SEPTA to address its railcar fire risks. An airport lounge has been temporarily shut down by health officials. Plus, Pennsylvania amusement parks are some pretty great Halloween attractions.

Authorities have busted up a South American theft ring for a multi-county burglary spree that targeted Asian business owners. PPL has requested a rate hike for the first time in over a decade. State lawmakers mull over how much the Game Commission should be paying for hunting lands. Lastly, this city’s one of the top 20 best for foodies.