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

Whether you love it or hate it, Halloween is one of the most widely celebrated holidays in the U.S If you love it, though, you may want take your Halloween celebrations outside of Pennsylvania if you’re looking for an actual good, spooky time. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

A group of Satanists claimed they were discriminated against after a school banned all clothing and accessories with “satanic” imagery on them. A newly proposed $16 million project would convert all of Pittsburgh’s streetlights to LED. The Penguins’ Sidney Crosby is still recovering from a wrist surgery. And a bank offers to pay the electric bills of an iconic sign in Scranton so it can keep shining bright. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

The felony charge against a homeless man who accidentally stole 43 cents has been dropped. SEPTA has released a service interruption plan should its employees indeed strike. Opening day for trout season gets an official date in 2022. Lastly, a dog was fortunately saved from a fire. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

A congressman’s Twitter account was suspended over a post he published concerning former Pennsylvania Secretary of Health, Dr. Rachel Levine. In order to combat a labor shortage seen across the country, one local school district has approved increasing its substitute teacher pay by 110 percent. A state-run program allows for seniors to get matched with those looking for affordable housing. And the remains of an Indigenous man hundreds of years old are discovered in a school in Philadelphia. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

A Delaware County prosecutor has said that the story of how SEPTA passengers merely pulled out their phones and recorded a woman’s rape is false. The North Allegheny school board is looking to consider a policy change that would give its members the authority to approve all novels used in the district’s schools. Not all businesses are complying with spotted lanternfly permit requirements. Finally, a 106-year-old woman shares the secret to long life: beer. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

A new lawsuit claims that UPMC won’t give kids medical exemptions for the statewide school mask mandate. A member of the County Cares Commission in Luzerne County plans to present a proposed “bill of rights” for the homeless. Salmonella has broken out in 37 states, Pennsylvania included. And a volunteer organization in Pittsburgh was all treat and no tricks when it gave out free Halloween costumes to hundreds of kids. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

A man who attempted to rob a Brinks truck driver had the tables quickly turned on him. Brewers in York City are worried the proposed sale of the city’s wastewater system may affect their beer. Pennsylvania casinos hit big last month, revenue-wise. Plus, there are some pretty weird laws that still exist in each state, Pennsylvania included. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Instead of intervening, SEPTA passengers seemingly pulled out their phones and recorded a woman’s rape. The Port Authority’s plan to rebrand itself remains paused because of the COVID-19 pandemic. It may be warmer today, but rest assured, cold is coming. And a full moon with an appropriately spooky name will rise this week. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

No one intervened as a woman repeatedly pushed away the man who raped her on the SEPTA Market-Frankford line last week. Doctors informed a woman that she can’t get a kidney transplant because she won’t get the COVID-19 vaccine, a hesitancy which stems from health concerns. Pennsylvania is now focusing on stimulant and polysubstance abuse along with opioids in the battle to end its drug epidemic. Finally, it turns out people really have a tough time spelling “Pennsylvania.” See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

A man from Philadelphia was busted for dealing drugs after the cops pulled him over during a traffic stop. Pittsburgh will expand upon its affordable housing after receiving several low-income housing tax credits. Vulgar graffiti directed at President Joe Biden was removed from I-81 in Scranton the other day. Lastly, Bucks County voters accidentally cast their mail-in ballots into a drop box that was, in fact, a costume. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Philadelphia has become the first large city in the U.S. to adopt legislation that will prevent cops from pulling people over for low-level traffic offenses. The former head of a child welfare agency who cleared a backlog of cases pleaded guilty to child endangerment. An inmate uprising broke out at a Philadelphia prison. Also, guess how much Pennsylvanians spent on liquor last year? See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Whether or not to make disease data publicly accessible has become a hot point of contention for state lawmakers. A murder suspect asked a York County judge to preside over something else other than his trial. Federal funding will go towards training Pittsburgh police on how to use the National Crime Database. And those weren’t birds or planes—those were people parachuting from a skyscraper in Philly. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

The trucker who was fatally shot by state troopers at an I-80 rest stop last week had reportedly fired at multiple vehicles beforehand. Defense attorneys have argued that the anti-Semitic comments made by the man who shot and killed 11 people at the Tree of Life synagogue building should be suppressed in court. The Wells Fargo Center has updated its code of conduct as the NBA and NHL season gets underway, emphasizing the inappropriateness of some of the rowdier behavior exhibited by fans. Lastly, a group of bobcats got recognized for being particularly photogenic. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Pennsylvania’s state-owned universities are experiencing the lowest enrollment they’ve seen in decades. Somebody spread the ashes of somebody else at Heinz Field after the Steelers game on Sunday. Wawa is continuing to roll out self-checkouts at certain locations, a number of which are in Pennsylvania. Plus, the majority of Keystone State residents are apparently pretty pleased by what they see in the mirror. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Pennsylvania still technically recognizes Columbus Day although many of its cities are today observing Indigenous Peoples’ Day. Philly is thinking of making a 15 percent cap on food delivery fees for services like Grubhub permanent. This is the 4-1-1 on where to see the best fall foliage in the state. Finally, this pumpkin in Allentown grew to be so big, Cinderella could use it as an SUV. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Raise a glass, everyone, because beer and wine makers in Pennsylvania just got $2 million to help increase their production. Pittsburgh is considering a proposal to amend its parking code which includes items such as virtual permitting offerings as well as non-resident permits. The state Fish and Boat Commission recently released thousands of striped bass into the wild. And, as put by the Pittsburgh-Post Gazette, some good juju happened at a grocery store the other day. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

One state representative’s newly proposed bill has sparked quite the conversation about reproductive rights, specifically because it requires all men to get a vasectomy when they hit 40. Nursing homes throughout Pennsylvania are accepting less residents due to staffing shortages. The price of bacon is noticeably going up. Finally, don’t forget, the Draconid meteor shower will be visible right on through Sunday. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

“If there are such things as ghosts, now I know why.” These are the words of Carrie Donaldson, a genealogy enthusiast who accidentally stumbled upon a 106-year-old cold case involving a young girl whose bones were found in the basement of a Harrisburg home. Donaldson’s story—as well as the media sensationalism, conspiracy theories and paranoia that took a city by storm—is now being told in several parts by PennLive investigative reporter, John Luciew, who worked together with Donaldson through over a century’s worth of material in order to try to give a girl in a grave back her name. During this special “Today in Pa.” bonus episode, Luciew talks with host Claudia Dimuro and dives deep into the details of the case; how and why it blew up in the press the way it did; and maybe, just maybe, how it may have once again risen from the grave due to a little push from Fate. You can check out the currently published parts of “The Murder House of Harrisburg” below: See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

If you live in Philly, chances are you’ll see your flood insurance rates go up. An explosion that occurred in Allentown over the weekend is currently under investigation. Penn State professors are protesting the school’s COVID-19 policies this week. And at long last, Kodiak the sea eagle is back at the National Aviary in Pittsburgh. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

A missing bulldog led to the discovery of an illegal dog kennel in Monroe County. A rise in natural gas prices could mean higher heat bills for many residents throughout the state this winter. Health insurance may go up a teensy bit in 2022. And after no food staff showed up, a principal in Philadelphia treated her 400 students to pizza. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Pittsburgh International Airport is facing a new “epidemic” as more handguns are being confiscated at its security checkpoints. PennDOT is now considering a public-private partnership to fix up or replace nine of the state’s major bridges (at a pretty hefty price tag, too). Sorry, Steelers fans in central Pennsylvania, but you won’t be able to watch them play the Packers this Sunday on TV. Plus, just in time for October, Pennsylvania gets listed among the top states for candy corn lovers. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

A dog has been terrorizing a mailman in Westmoreland County so much so that postal service has been delayed for over a month. The Hershey Co. wants one cookie maker to kiss the alleged use of its iconic logo goodbye. Offense linemen injuries continue to plague the Eagles. And someone placed a bet that’s out of this world…literally. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

One university sparked a debate regarding free speech after releasing a memo warning students that misgendering someone could lead to consequences. A state Senate committee has voted for the use of coronavirus relief funds for environmental purposes. Those driving through Pittsburgh may run into some delays and closures this week. Finally, some Pennsylvanian humans will soon have their groceries delivered to them by robots. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Transgender women in Pennsylvania are looking to combat state laws that bar those who committed felonies from legally changing their names. Some areas will see postal service slow down starting next month, those in Pennsylvania included. A group of girls in Lawrence County accidentally reeled in a deadly catch while “magnetic fishing.” And one man realizes he’s purchased a million-dollar scratch-off only months after winning one worth $100,000. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Government officials have confirmed that the Philadelphia International Airport is currently the main hub for Afghan refugees in the country. Senator Bob Casey is pushing a bill that’ll have banks and business help seniors avoid getting scammed. This fall could see more stink bugs around. Lastly, if you’re a coffee addict (guilty), this Pennsylvanian city is the place for you. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

A “pill mill” doctor who illegally prescribed tons of pills—so many, in fact, that he was the leading provider of two types of opioids in the entire state—has pleaded guilty. School officials and teachers have testified against Governor Tom Wolf’s statewide mask mandate. DoorDash is helping to give eligible seniors free food box deliveries. And a man returned 108-year-old beer bottles to a brewery just to get the deposit refund. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Pennsylvania Turnpike drivers may have noticed at one point that their E-ZPasses are being mysteriously charged for fees called V-tolls. Governor Tom Wolf’s administration has released a climate action plan that seeks to reduce Pennsylvania’s carbon emissions. Philadelphia has gotten millions in fed money to fight homelessness. Lastly, a church in Bell Township honors fallen Revolutionary War soldiers by tending to their graves. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

A man from Luzerne County has taken it upon himself to pose as minors in order to expose potential child predators, all of which he documents on YouTube. Schools in the western part of the state are starting to crack down on students participating in a viral TikTok challenge. The Flyers will already be down a key player heading into the upcoming NHL season. Plus, the time is ripe to pluck Pennsylvania’s largest native fruit. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

A man who accidentally shortchanged a convenience store a whopping 43 cents now faces up to seven years in prison. Governor Tom Wolf has asked for the state Legislature to continue using a statewide database of consumer prescriptions—which a new bill would allow for insurance companies to access—much to the chagrin of doctors. Sorry (not sorry) mosquitoes, but bats are making a comeback throughout the state. And one man miraculously gets people to crack a smile while they’re stuck in traffic. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

The state Senate is set to consider a proposal this week that would prevent medical cannabis users from receiving DUIs. There were no planes, but there was a train and a police automobile involved turning the chase for an escaped Altoona perp. Over 40 booze brands have a two-bottle daily purchase limit as of Friday. Plus, a child services’ agency was pleasantly surprised after a kindly benefactor left them in her will. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

The Syrian refugee who plotted to bomb a Pittsburgh church in the name of ISIS pleaded guilty in federal court. Lehigh Valley International Airport will be closed for upgrades starting today. Pennsylvania’s student aid agency wants $40 million more than what was allotted to it in the state’s budget. And one Lincoln University professor went above and beyond his job description. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Pennsylvania lawmakers have voted for a subpoena to obtain information such as the driver’s license numbers and partial Social Security numbers of those who voted during the 2020 presidential election. Aetna Better Health of Pennsylvania has been accused of lying about the number of pediatricians in its network in order to win state contracts. A billboard featuring President Joe Biden dressed in Taliban garb has caused much rubbernecking on I-83 in York County. Finally, kindness comes in all forms, breakfast included. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Millions of drivers on the Pennsylvania Turnpike were accidentally treated to free rides in 2020 thanks to uncollected tolls. IBM agreed to pay the state $33 million for failing to deliver on its promise to create a modern, effective unemployment benefits computer system. Pittsburgh’s leading tourism group wants to tack on a two percent rental fee to all Allegheny County hotel rooms. Plus, a Bucks County boy made an explosive discovery while hunting for treasure. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

A district attorney has issued a health alert after roughly 70 overdoses from heroin, fentanyl and horse tranquilizers were reported over the weekend. A union representing prison guards is looking for a court review of Governor Tom Wolf’s mandate that orders them to get vaccinated or subject themselves to weekly testing. State hunting licenses get digital. And fall leaves in Pennsylvania will be particularly vibrant this year. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Doctor's notes are being used against the mask mandate. Pa. senator questions the legality of the President’s COVID-19 mandates. Penn State Health revised visiting rules for non-COVID-19 patients. You can win money by watching horror films. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Former Gov. Tom Ridge reflects on 9/11. A conservative group aided in a lawsuit against the mask mandate in Pa. schools. Pa. scientists win a $3 million prize for helping with the COVID-19 vaccines. Penn National Gaming will open a casino. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Harrisburg’s mayor has made a decision on a write-in campaign to keep the position. COVID-19 hospitalizations continue to rise in Pa. Stevie’s Bistro’s owner is "heartbroken" over its closure. Is the Harvest Moon falling in summer unusual? See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

More students and parents across Pennsylvania are protesting Governor Tom Wolf’s statewide mask mandate in K-12 schools. SEPTA is looking to rename Philly’s rail lines to make things a bit easier for straphangers. Keep your eyes peeled for some big groups of spotted lanternflies in your area. Finally, one town really wants its residents’ livestock to quit horsing around on its streets. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Governor Tom Wolf’s statewide mask mandate in K-12 schools and daycares is going to court. The Port Authority has once again gone back to two-car trains on its Red and Blue light rail lines. Pennsylvanians could be seeing some rain later on in the week. And nervous fliers at Philadelphia International Airport may be soothed by man’s best friend. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Pittsburgh has begun to crack down on those recklessly driving ATVs and dirt bikes throughout the city’s streets. York County officials reveal that they have discovered more mosquitoes that have tested positive for West Nile. Pittsburgh’s “Lights Out” program is lending migratory birds a helping wing. Plus, Penn State’s Nittany Lion isn’t exactly as popular a college mascot as previously assumed. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

A Uniontown man has been accused of improperly representing U.S. Capitol riot defendants and reportedly has some outstanding legal issues of his own. In even more law news, UPMC has been sued by the feds over allegations of healthcare fraud. Hurricane Ida spurred the closure of hundreds of roads and thousands of water rescues throughout the state. And if you love beer, this Pennsylvania city’s the place for you. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

The Wolf administration’s statewide mandate requiring those in schools K-12 as well as daycares to wear masks has received backlash with some senators predicting future legal action. The Pennsylvania Air National Guard has been activated to help refugees from Afghanistan. Live! Hotel & Casino is currently engaged in a battle (casino) royale with Ocean Casino Resort over a slogan. Lastly, a goat caused a traffic jam on the Pennsylvania Turnpike. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Governor Tom Wolf has reinstated a statewide mask mandate in K-12 schools as well as daycare centers. A shirtless man wearing a Halloween monster mask as well as others have been terrorizing residents around York Township. Hurricane Ida will be hitting Pennsylvania, drenching some areas with a predicted seven inches of rain. And someone in Aspinwall abandoned a taxidermy rhinoceros head over the weekend, leaving cops absolutely bamboozled. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

A judge has deemed audio cellphone evidence as inadmissible in a case against a man charged with raping an unconscious teenager. Pittsburgh Mayor Bill Peduto is looking for approval in using $2.5 million of federal pandemic relief money in order to start a basic universal income program. A Holocaust denier who was caught with his pants down (literally) can’t seem to drop his convictions. Finally, an Allegheny City Civil War vet’s battle paraphernalia sells for quite a bit of cash. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

A state lawmaker is looking to introduce a bill that would allow for teens aged 14 and older to get vaccinated without their parents’ consent. PECO’s request to get a larger gas rate increase has been unanimously denied by the Pennsylvania Utility Commission. A missing 4-year-old from Franklin County was found safe. And a man traveling from Oregon to New York via canoe made a stop in Pittsburgh. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Legislators have turned down Governor Tom Wolf’s request to create a bill that would instill mask mandates for schools and childcare facilities. A group of students at North Allegheny Senior High School walked out in protest of such a mask mandate. Center Sean Couturier has just signed an eight-year, $62 million contract extension with the Flyers. Plus, one man decided to use a scoreboard at a Rubber Ducks-Harrisburg Senators game to break up with his girlfriend. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

After three years, Pennsylvania’s opioid disaster declaration has ended. Governor Tom Wolf has asked the state legislature to create a bill requiring masks in classrooms. The Hanover Township woman who spat in a supermarket while claiming she had COVID-19 has landed a two-year prison sentence. And a 4-year-old from Butler County makes a strange—and beyond ancient—discovery in a forest. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

A police officer in Butler was stabbed multiple times before he managed to fatally shoot his assailant. The Bryn Mawr company that’s been buying up public utilities throughout suburbs in Philadelphia is looking to increase water and sewer bills by a lot. Deer hunters in the state will face new regulations that look to mitigate the spread of a chronic wasting disease reported in deer, elk, and other related species. Finally, dogs rescued from South Korea that were almost eaten are finding new homes in Pennsylvania. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Allegheny County-based Shuman Juvenile Detention Center has had its license revoked by the state Department of Human Services. An arrest has been made in the vicious beating of a delivery driver in Philadelphia that has left the victim in a coma. Amtrak has estimated that the proposed route between Scranton and New York would bring in millions of dollars per year. And, ironically enough, this stop sign in Cheltenham is inspiring people to keep going. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

A Philadelphia man severely wounded a “Good Samaritan” who was protecting the girlfriend he was chasing before getting fatally shot by police. U.S. Senator Bob Casey has estimated that Pennsylvania will receive over $11 billion from the pending bipartisan infrastructure bill. Individuals and organizations alike continue to help refugees from Afghanistan find places to live in the state. And 100-year-old linden trees are saved in Bethlehem. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.