An 18-year-old man and a 14-year-old boy will be charged with robbery of a motor vehicle and related charges.

At around noon, the Abington Township Police Department responded to a report of a robbery and carjacking that happened in the parking lot of the Abington Shopping Center at 1400 Old York Road, according to police.

The victim, a woman, told police she parked her car in the lot and was walking towards a business in the shopping center when two males grabbed her from behind. They took her bag which had her keys and used her keys to steal her car and flee south on Old York Road.

The victim was not injured during the robbery, officials said.

Investigation revealed that the suspects had arrived at the scene of this crime in a Nissan Rogue, which had been carjacked an hour earlier in the Olney section of Philadelphia.

Abington officers were able to locate the stolen car and followed it into Philadelphia where the suspects crashed the car along the 5200 block of Bingham Street and then fled on foot, police said.

While attempting to elude the authorities, the suspects attempted to carjack another vehicle on Tabor Avenue. They were eventually apprehended after they were seen hiding in thick brush along the Tacony Creek Trail.

An investigation into this incident is ongoing at this time.

This is a developing story. Check back for updates.

When asked what I remember about Tupperware parties, I pulled out some of my pieces of Tupperware from long ago. Along with finding the “Bacon Keeper” that I have used for perhaps 35 years to refrigerate deli sandwich makings. I located an entire part of my life.

We didn’t have a dishwasher back then — what struggling young family did? When my two daughters were old enough. we made a deal. I would prepare the dinner. They would do the dishwashing and I’d be free.

What made me remember that? The Tupperware pieces I was looking at were of the pre-dishwasher type plastic that has not survived the heat very well in the many years since dishwashers have been taken for granted. My later pieces have withstood the dishwasher onslaught. They still look new.

In those days, we thought very little about most women’s designated roles in suburban society. Your husband went to work; you were home when the children arrived after school. Once in a while in the evening, you left the young ones in the care of their dad and went to a friend’s home for a Tupperware party.

It was fun. You saw 10, maybe 20 friends and acquaintances who had also escaped for an evening. It never occurred to any of us that no men were there. We played little games and took home small Tupperware pieces as prizes.

A representative demonstrated the “Tupperware seal”: how to make the containers airtight so we could serve the contents fresh and with pride. We shared coffee and cake provided by our hostess. Then we went home with renewed ability to face the next day and its chores.

Is it still the same today? Now that so many women have taken their place next to men in the working world, do Tupperware parties still exist? Do they fill the same needs? Do men also attend? Are some of the newer items designed to solve gentlemen’s storage problems?

Do we have Tupperware party equality at long last?

___

Ann T. Anthony (1924-2018), wrote this story for The Associated Press in 1996 when she was 71. She was married in 1946 — the year Tupperware was introduced — and attended Tupperware parties for years. She remembers the parties as events where friends could get together and buy from someone they trusted.

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Tupperware Brands, the company that revolutionized food storage decades ago, filed for bankruptcy protection as it struggles to revitalize its business.

Tupperware sales growth improved during the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic, but overall sales have been in steady decline since 2018 due to rising competition. And financial troubles have continued to pile up for the Orlando, Florida, company.

Officers were called to a house on the 2800 block of North Bailey Street just after 7:30 p.m. on Sept. 18, police said. They were told a shooting incident happened in the second-floor hallway.

Police found a 13-year-old girl who had suffered a single gunshot wound to the right side of her chest, police explained.

She was taken to a nearby hospital where she was pronounced dead just after 8 p.m., according to officials.

No weapons have been recovered and no one has been arrested yet in connection to this incident, police said.

The scene remains secured as investigators work to figure out what happened.

If you have any information, please call the Homicide Unit at 215-686-3334. You can also call or text the Philadelphia Police Department’s tipline at 215-686-TIPS (8477).

This took place Friday afternoon near Lancaster Avenue and Sherwood Road while Anisha Singha was working on the second floor of her home and heard her nanny scream downstairs.

Singha said she ran downstairs to see a man she didn’t recognize walk out of her home.

“I just like heard her shout and so I ran down and she said, ‘somebody came in the house,’” Singha said.

She said her nanny was confronted by a man who casually walked into her home from the unlocked side door, and the nanny initially thought he was one of the contractors doing work outside the home.

The man then allegedly asked for food and then asked to use the bathroom. That’s when she said the man tried to attack her nanny.

“He tried to pull her into the bathroom, and he was pulling his pants down and he basically tried to grab her and said let’s go,” Singha said.

Singha said the man calmly walked out of her home when she ran down the stairs and she was able to get a photo of him that she has shared with the police.

In the photo the man is wearing a bright neon green vest over a gray hoodie and has on what appears to be a cowboy’s hat.

Police are using the photo as part of their investigation.

Singha also posted it to social media and a community list serve to warn others.

Another neighbor claimed she also encountered the same man.

Police say they have not received other calls of similar situations and have not found the man.

“I would want my neighbors to not like lose the sense of community but maybe like just be extra careful…like don’t leave your door unlocked even if you’re running back and forth for just a second,” Singha said.

Police say if you’ve had a similar encounter or have any additional information to contact them.

On social media on Wednesday afternoon, Parker announced that an arena would indeed be built for the Philadelphia 76ers in Center City.

“As your Mayor, I’m speaking from my City Hall office with a very important announcement. I am proud to share that I have made my decision, and an agreement has been reached to ensure that our Sixers are staying home,” Parker wrote on social media.

While she did not outline the exact terms of the agreement, Parker promised that it would bring “hundreds and hundreds” of jobs to Center City.

Also, she noted that her office would be “transmitting the related legislative package to our City Council of Philadelphia for its consideration where it must be approved.”

Through this agreement, Parker said the plan would bring more than $1.3 billion of private investment and will mean “hundreds of millions” in new tax revenue.

“It represents an unprecedented revival of Market Street,” she said.

Philadelphia Aug 26

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Also, Parker took a moment to direct a comment toward the residents of the city’s Chinatown neighborhood — many of whom have opposed the arena plan — to say that she wants the agreement to help the “rich and vibrant” community thrive.

“I wholeheartedly believe this is the right deal for the People of Philadelphia. To the People of Chinatown, please know that I hear you. We have the best Chinatown in the United States, and I am committed to working together to support it. I’ll have a lot more to say in a formal presentation coming soon,” Parker said.

Shortly after Parker announced that an agreement had been made, in a statement, the 76ers said they were “grateful” for the mayor’s work.

“We are grateful to Mayor Parker and her team for their time and diligence in evaluating our proposal and look forward to advancing to the next steps with City Council,” the 76ers said.

Dan Hilferty, chairman and CEO of Comcast Spectacor said, in a statement, that regardless of the outcome of Harris Blitzer Sports & Entertainment’s — the company that owns the 76ers — negotiations, the team was always welcome to remain in South Philadelphia.

“Regardless of the outcome of the City’s negotiations with HBSE, our door will always be open for the 76ers to join us in South Philadelphia if they ever conclude that is what is best for their team,” Hilferty said. “Alongside the Phillies, we are creating the dynamic and accessible destination for sports and entertainment that will create thousands of jobs, amplify our City, and create numerous community benefits. Either way, we always want what is best for Philadelphia.”

However, following the mayor’s announcement, a statement from the Save Chinatown Coalition argued that the “fight is far from over.”

Protesters gathered at City Hall shortly after the mayor’s announcement, saying they are ready to fight for their neighborhood. They believe a new arena will destroy Chinatown, and the fabric of that community.

The Save Chinatown Coalition has been fighting for months for the neighborhood.

“If you don’t have the decency to come to our community, and look us in the eye, and talk to us, that is disrespectful, that’s extremely disrespectful,” Debbie Wei, with the Save Chinatown Coalition, said.

Some sixers fans are dreading all the commotion a move like this could bring to the city.

“Traffic is going to be terrible, so not looking forward to that. It’s going to be interesting to see how many communities that’s going to disrupt too,” one Philly resident said.

Others are standing strong with the mayor.

“Best possible place for the Sixers to be at. Stay hometown. A lot of jobs. A lot of jobs are going to open up for us. We’ve been struggling with jobs and all that so,” another man said.

“Mayor Parker still hasn’t met with Chinatown after all this time, yet feels she can have a stance on whether our community should live or die. This was never about one person, and this fight is far from over. We are going to fight this, and we are going to the mat. It’s on,” said Debbie Wei, who was described as a longtime Chinatown community member and member of the Save Chinatown Coalition.

Hours after the announcement, City Councilmember Mark Squilla released a statement that reads, “Now that the Mayor has made a decision on 76 Place, CM Squilla remains steadfast in his commitment to circulate the package of bills to all stakeholders for at least 30 days.  During this time, we expect to consider all concerns and amend the legislation as needed.  Council will follow their legislative process and insure there are safeguards in place for the community stakeholders if legislation is introduced.”

IBEW Local 98 business manager Mark Lynch also released a statement to NBC10 showing his support for Mayor Parker’s announcement.

“IBEW Local 98 applauds Mayor Parker for having the political courage and vision to publicly state her support for the construction of 76 Place on East Market Street. Beyond the nearly 10,000 union construction jobs it will create over a decade, 76 Place will invite additional outside investment that will finally revitalize this dormant yet vital section of Center City,” Lynch’s statement said.

Meanwhile, a spokesperson for the New Jersey Economic Development told NBC10 that Wednesday’s announcement by Mayor Parker will not deter the state from persuing the 76ers.

“We have put forward a thoughtful and aggressive proposal that makes clear that Governor Murphy and leaders across the state would welcome the 76ers to Camden with open arms, and nothing announced today changes our view that the Sixers should seriously consider New Jersey for their next home. We play until the final buzzer sounds, and we look forward to continuing to make the case for Camden and the Garden State,” NJEDA CEO Tim Sullivan said.

State officials from New Jersey and Delaware are also looking to have the Sixers call their state home.

A spokesperson from the New Jersey Economic Deevelopment Authority said even after today’s announcement they still welcome the Sixers to Camden with open arms, “we play until the final buzzer sounds.”

This is a breaking news story. It will be updated as new information becomes available.

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The procession for slain Officer Jaime Roman is scheduled to begin at 5:15 a.m. from the John F. Givnish Funeral Home and make its way to the Philadelphia Public Services Building.

Then, starting at 6:15 a.m., Philadelphia Mayor Cherelle Parker and Police Commissioner Kevin Bethel will join officers from the police department to march behind the hearse from the Public Services Building to the Cathedral Basilica.

As long as weather permits, you can watch the procession live in the player at the top of this article.

What roads will be closed?

• Southbound on Broad Street from Callowhill Street
• Westbound on Arch Street to the Parkway
• Northwest on the Parkway to 18th Street
• Northbound on 18th Street to the Basilica

From 8 a.m. to 11 a.m. the public is welcome to participate in the viewing for Officer Roman at the Basilica of S.S. Peter and Paul at 1723 Race Street.

The funeral services for Roman will begin shortly after the viewing ends, but officials said that seating inside the church is only for family, friends, law enforcement and dignitaries.

If you would like to view the funeral, a Jumbo Tron will be set up outside of the church.

Following the service, the Executive Team, Command Staff, FOP Executive Team, 25th Police District, and other uniformed personnel will be stationed for Roman’s final honors.

Kensington Sep 10

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The first of the two viewings for Roman took place on Wednesday, Sept. 18. He was remembered for his six and a half years spent with the 25th district, but most importantly, for his role as the leader of his household.

Officer Roman shot, killed

The Philadelphia police officer was shot in the line of duty in June during what officials believed to be a routine traffic stop.

Philadelphia Police Department Commissioner Kevin Bethel said at the time that the incident was a senseless shooting.

Bethel said that, after watching video from the event, he had seen nothing — no escalation or flared tempers — in the moments that led to the officer’s shooting.

Officer Roman passed away more than two months after a gunman — later identified as 36-year-old Ramon Rodriguez-Vázquez — fled a traffic stop and shot the officer in the neck, investigators said.

After the shooting, officials said, Rodriguez-Vázquez changed clothes and held a man hostage in his home all within the span of about 15 minutes in Kensington back on June 22, 2024.

Roman leaves behind a wife and two children — a 7-year-old daughter and a 4-year-old son.

Earlier this year, experts warned that Joro spiders could start showing up in Pennsylvania, New Jersey and Delaware this summer, spreading up from the southeastern U.S., where they have been proliferating.

critter corner Jun 5

Giant, parachuting Joro spiders could arrive in Pa., NJ and Del. this summer

Nature Nov 9, 2023

These giant, parachuting spiders are spreading rapidly in the US, study shows

Joro spiders spotted in suburbs of Philadelphia

Now, there is a report of six of the creepy invasive crawlers in southeastern Pennsylvania on JoroWatch.com. (Yes, that’s a real website powered by the University of Georgia and other academic and environmental entities.)

Someone spotted the group of a half dozen or so colorful arachnids in the yard of a home in Warminster, Bucks County, on Sept. 5, 2024, JoroWatch said.

What is a Joro spider?

The yellow and black arachnids are native to East Asia, but the invasive arachnids have been around in Georgia for about a decade. A fall of 2023 peer-reviewed study conducted by David Coyle, a scientist and assistant professor in the Department of Forestry and Environmental Conservation at Clemson University, found that the species is “here to stay” in the U.S. as it spreads rapidly around the country.

As of October 2022, the species’ range spanned at least 120,000 square kilometers across Georgia, South Carolina, North Carolina and Tennessee, according to the study. There were also reports of Joro spiders in Alabama, Maryland, Oklahoma and West Virginia. And the spiders are expected to make more East Coast states their home in the future.

“(The data from the study shows) that this spider is going to be able to inhabit most of the eastern U.S.,” Coyle said. “It shows that their comfort area in their native range matches up very well with much of North America.

“Barring some unforeseen circumstance, we expect the range of these things to continue expanding, likely to the north, and we’ve already seen that with some populations in Maryland.”

Nature Mar 17, 2022

This College Student Has Held Hundreds of Joro Spiders. Here's What He Wants You To Know

Nature Nov 9, 2023

These giant, parachuting spiders are spreading rapidly in the US, study shows

Adding to nightmares, the spiders are light enough to travel through the air by a process called “ballooning,” making it even easier for them to spread. The “spiders move through the air by releasing gossamer threads to catch the wind and go airborne, at the mercy of air currents and electric fields, although human-mediated transport cannot be discounted,” Coyle wrote.

What does a Joro spider look like, how big is it?

Female Joro spiders, a.k.a. Trichonephila clavata, can have a body about 1 inch long and legs that span up to 4 inches, according to a 2022 Penn State Extension article. The females are brightly colored, whereas the males are brown.

But there is good news: Even though its palm of your hand size tends to freak people out, the species is relatively harmless to humans and pets.

Are Joro spiders dangerous?

While Joro spiders may appear frightening to some, they are relatively harmless to people and pets, a University of Georgia study from last year said. In fact, that study found that Joro spiders “may be the shyest spider ever documented.”

The spiders will only bite if they’re cornered and even then their fangs likely wouldn’t be large enough to pierce human skin, according to the University of Georgia study.

“Our paper shows that these spiders are really more afraid of you than the reverse,” said Andy Davis, lead author of the study and a research scientist in UGA’s Odum School of Ecology.

Another positive about the spiders: they don’t want to go inside homes, according to Coyle. They will instead spin webs on the outside of houses or other structures. If a Joro spider needs to be moved, Coyle suggests using a broom or stick to place it elsewhere.

Might Joro spiders spread further in the Delaware Valley soon?

The simple answer is maybe, but not to worry too much.

“In their native range, Jorō spiders can be found in relatively cold areas – the average January temperature of northern Honshu, Japan is 25–32 °F, similar to most of Pennsylvania,” the Penn State article said. “So it is likely that they will be able to spread throughout eastern North America at least as far north as Pennsylvania and possibly further in warmer, coastal areas.”

“Between 2014–22, Jorō spiders spread outward in all directions from the location they were initially found by 50–80 miles, or about 10 miles per year. At that rate, they may reach southeastern Pennsylvania in 35 years and northwestern Pennsylvania in 60 years. However, spiderlings are capable of moving tens to hundreds of miles via ballooning,” Penn State said. “Additionally, as they increase in numbers, the risk of human-mediated transport to new areas also increases. This means that the immediate risk of Jorō spiders appearing in Pennsylvania is relatively small but will increase year over year as they spread naturally, via high wind events, and through accidental human transport.”

University of Delaware’s Department of Entomology and Wildlife Ecology entomologist Dr. Doug Tallamy has been downplaying a potential Joro invasion.

“It’s possible but very low on the list of things we should be worried about,” he wrote earlier this year. Reached on Wednesday by NBC10, he wrote: “I think it’s a non issue that should not be blown out of proportion.”

How did Joro spiders get to the U.S. to begin with?

Joro spiders are native to East Asia. It’s believed the species likely made its way to the U.S. via a shipping container.

Are Joro spiders orb-weavers?

Joro spiders are in the family of orb-weavers, which spin large, orb-shaped webs. They look similar to garden spiders and banana spiders.

Do Joro spiders fly?

The pattern in which Joro spiders have spread “suggests it is primarily driven by natural dispersal mechanisms, such as ballooning,” according to Coyle’s study. Ballooning is when spiders move through the air like a parachute by releasing “sail-like trails of silk that lift them up and off into the wind,” per National Geographic. (Want to get a bit freaked out? Read the full Nat Geo story.)

The study said human-mediated transport can’t be discounted, either, in regard to the spread of the species.

What do Joro spiders eat?

Joro spiders aren’t exactly picky eaters. Coyle said they “don’t seem to care what gets in their web.” The spiders eat mosquitoes, yellowjackets, stink bugs and even spotted lanternflies — another invasive pest.

“They’re just as likely to eat brown marmorated stink bugs as they are to eat a Monarch butterfly,” he added. “To say they’re more beneficial than another spider is just simply wrong — they’re a spider — and if something gets caught in their web, it’s going to get eaten. And they don’t care if it’s a rare native pollinator and there are only a few of them left in the world or if it’s a brown marmorated stink bug.”

An interesting find from Coyle’s study is that Joro spiders are displacing native species, along with having other negative impacts. But it’s unclear exactly why other species are being negatively impacted by Joro spiders.

“These are not just benign spiders coming to catch and kill bad things; these are pushing out native species and catching and killing whatever happens to get in their webs,” Coyle said. “Are they bad or good? It’s very nuanced depending on your perspective.”

The Pennsylvania Interscholastic Athletic Association Inc. (PIAA) announced on Wednesday, Sept. 18 that the high school level of girl’s flag football is now a sanctioned sport.

“We’re thrilled that we can offer another opportunity for girls to participate in interscholastic athletics,” PIAA President Frank Majikes said. “This is the second girls’ sport in two years to be approved.”

The PIAA explained that a sport can be considered for sanctioning once it has adopted “a set of operational and safety standards set forward by a governing body.” Those standards must be used by members of the program.

For girls flag football, PIAA required that there be at least 100 teams throughout the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. That number was reached in April with 65 schools participating on the eastern side of the state thanks to the Eagles and 35 schools on the western side thanks to the Steelers.

The Eagles and the Steelers worked together over the last three seasons to grow the flag football program in Pa.

“When we launched our girls’ flag football league in 2022, we set an ambitious five-year goal to get the sport sanctioned in our state. Now, here we are three seasons later and two years ahead of schedule,” Eagles chairman and CEO Jeffrey Lurie said. “The sport’s organic growth is a credit to the participants, administrators, coaches, officials, and parents who helped raise the profile of girls’ flag football. We thank the PIAA for their leadership in recognizing a sport that has the power to unlock new pathways and opportunities for girls of all ages in every community.”

When the Eagles launched their flag football program, it started with just 16 schools in the spring of 2022 from the Philadelphia Public and Catholic Leagues. In 2023, it grew to 38 before reached 65 this year. There are currently over 1,600 girls playing on the eastern side of Pennsylvania.

The Eagles have helped with learn-to-play support as well as coaching and officiating clinics and much more.

The Birds also partnered with Operation Warm to design a new sports bra line called FLY:FWD specifically for young girls and women in flag football.

The Pittsburgh Steelers are credited with starting their girls flag football in 2022 with just six schools before eventually growing to 36 schools this year.

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Months after allegations of child abuse against Atlantic City Mayor Marty Small and his wife, La’Quetta Small, came to light, the couple was indicted on a child endangerment charge.

The indictment against the 50-year-old mayor and his 47-year-old wife were delivered on Sept. 17, 2024, and revealed to the public by the Atlantic County Prosecutor’s Office the following day.

Léelo en español aquí.

The charge both of the Smalls face is second-degree endangering the welfare of a child, the prosecutor’s office said. Mayor Small was also indicted for third-degree terroristic threats, and third-degree aggravated assault.

What the Smalls are accused of doing

“It is alleged that during the months of December 2023 and January 2024, the defendants physically and emotionally abused their 15/16-year-old-daughter on multiple occasions,” prosecutors wrote.

The mayor was accused of repeatedly hitting his daughter in the head with a broom until she blacked out, and repeatedly punching her in the legs, court documents say. Her mother was accused of dragging her by her hair, punching her in the chest and face, and hitting her with a belt.

The root of the conflict, according to the court document, was the Smalls’ disapproval of their daughter’s boyfriend.

In a statement about the indictment, prosecutors laid out their case:

“During one incident, on January 13, 2024, Marty Small, Sr. is alleged to have hit his daughter multiple times in the head with a broom causing her to lose consciousness. Another incident on January 3, 2024, alleged that Marty Small, Sr., during an argument with his daughter, continuously threatened to hurt her by “earth slamming” her down the stairs, grabbing her head and throwing her to the ground, and smacking the weave out of her head. Another incident involved Marty Small, Sr. punching his daughter repeatedly in her legs causing bruising.

“It is alleged that La’Quetta Small, during one incident, punched her daughter multiple times on her chest leaving bruising. Another incident alleged that La’Quetta Small dragged her daughter by her hair then struck her with a belt on her shoulders leaving marks. Another incident alleged that La’Quetta Small punched her daughter in the mouth during an argument.”

If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence, contact the National Domestic Violence Hotline by calling 1-800-799-SAFE (7233), visiting www.thehotline.org or texting LOVEIS to 22522.

An affidavit filed in the spring by the Atlantic County Prosecutor’s Office says the girl at one point acknowledged making up the accusations against her parents because she was angry they wouldn’t let her go out with friends.

But in many other sections, the affidavit includes detailed claims by the girl that the abuse was real, and it said she photographed bruises she said were inflicted by her parents and sent them to her boyfriend, who shared them with detectives.

The office of Prosecutor William Reynolds cited evidence including recordings of interactions between the girl and her parents; her statements to police, school personnel, a therapist and state child welfare investigators, and messages she sent to friends asking for help, saying she did not feel safe at home.

Atlantic City Apr 15

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New Jersey Sep 12

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The Smalls have asserted their innocence, calling the situation a “private family issue.”

Their lawyer, Ed Jacobs, said in the past the mayor and his wife “are completely innocent of any wrongdoing and will ultimately be vindicated.” On Wednesday, Jacobs reiterated that this incident is a private issue between a mom, dad and child and has nothing to do with mayoral misconduct.

Jacobs said that Small is an upstanding citizen and will ultimately be proven innocent of the charges.

It could not immediately be determined if the girl is still living at home with her parents.

Prosecutor’s have yet to reveal next steps in the case.

Marty Small continues as mayor of Atlantic City, wife continues to lead city schools

In his first public comments following the allegations of abuse coming to light in April, Marty Small said he would not be distracted from his duties.

“We’ve all seen news accounts of what’s going on with myself personally,” the Democratic mayor said in a speech at the Hard Rock casino. “It’s just that: personal.

“But I pledge to each and every one of you, it doesn’t change my commitment, number one, to my family, and it doesn’t change my commitment here to the great city of Atlantic City,” the mayor said.

Marty Small has kept to the pledge and continued mayoral duties through the summer.

La’Quetta Small continues to serve as the superintendent of Atlantic City Public Schools.

Just last week, the principal of Atlantic City High School was indicted on official misconduct, child endangerment and other charges for allegedly failing to notify child welfare authorities that the Smalls’ teenage daughter had been hurt at home by her parents.

The Atlantic County Prosecutor’s Office said Thursday, Sept. 12, 2024, that the eight-count indictment against Constance Days-Chapman was made by a grand jury a day earlier.

On Wednesday, United States Attorney Jacqueline Romero announced that Matthew Gabriel, 25, of Philadelphia, pleaded guilty to two counts of interstate and foreign communication of a threat to injure after he targeted a member of his fantasy football group with false terror attack claims.

According to the plea agreement, the calls began after Gabriel had an “online disagreement with a member of his fantasy football chat group” and learned that this individual planned to study abroad in Norway in August of 2023.

On August 3, 2023, court documents note, while he was in Pennsylvania, Gabriel submitted an anonymous tip through the internet to the Norwegian Police Security Service, also known as Politiets Sikkerhetstjeneste, “claiming that a member of his fantasy football chat group was going to carry out a mass shooting in Norway.”

As detailed by Romero’s office, Gabriel’s fake tip claimed his rival was working with others in order to “take out as many as they can at a concert and then head to a department store.”

“I don’t know any more people then that, I just can’t have random people dying on my conscience. [H]e plans to arrive there unarmed spend a couple days normal and then execute the attack,” read a fake tip shared by Romero’s office “[P]lease be ready. [H]e is around a 5 foot 7 read [sic] head coming from America, on the 10th or 11th I believe. [H]e should have weapons with him. [P]lease be careful.”

Romero’s office said that law enforcement officials in Norway and the United States spent “hundreds of man-hours” investigating and reacting to the threatened mass shooting over the course of a five-day period.

When interviewed by the FBI, Gabriel admitted that he had submitted the false tip, Romero’s office said.

But, Gabriel later made a second threat, Romero’s office said.

On March 22, 2024, again as he was in Pennsylvania, Gabriel sent an email — while posing as another individual — to the University of Iowa with the subject line “Possible Threat.”

“Hello, I saw this in a group chat I’m in and just want to make sure everyone is safe and fine. I don’t want anything bad to happen to any body. Thank you. A man named… from I believe Nebraska sent this, and I want to make sure that it is a joke and no one will get hurt,” read the email, according to court documents.

The email, court documents note, included a screenshot from the fantasy football group of a message that stated: “Hello University of Iowa a man named [Victim 1] told me he was gonna blow up the school.”

Instead, Romero’s office said Gabriel knew that the target of his claims had never intended to blow up the university and that the screenshotted message had been “sent in jest by another member of the fantasy football group regarding Gabriel’s prior threat.”

Despite knowing that there was no actual threat to the University of Iowa, Gabriel sent that email knowing that the University of Iowa would view it as a true threat, Romero’s office said.

“While already being prosecuted for one hoax threat spurred by, of all things, his fantasy football league, Matthew Gabriel inexplicably decided to send another,” said Romero in a statement on this case. “His actions were extremely disruptive and consumed significant law enforcement resources on two continents, diverting them from actual incidents and investigations. Hoax threats aren’t a joke or protected speech, they’re a crime. My advice to keyboard warriors who’d like to avoid federal charges: always think of the potential consequences before you hit ‘post’ or ‘send.’”

Gabriel, Romero’s office said, faces a maximum possible sentence of five years in prison, three years supervised release, a $250,000 fine, and a $100 special assessment fee.

During an event on Wednesday morning, First Assistant District Attorney Robert Listenbee said Muhyyee-ud-din Abdul-Rahman, 18, of West Philadelphia, not only had bomb-making materials, that were found in the trash at his home, he had tested bombs in the woods behind his home and had likely considered an attack on Philly’s LGBTQ community.

But, on Wednesday, Listenbee said, Abdul-Rahman had not only made bombs, but he had considered placing bombs in trashcans along the route of last year’s Philadelphia Pride March and intended to move to Syria in the hopes of becoming a bomb-maker for a terrorist group.

“The defendant, who had a scholarship to attend college as a wrestler, decided that he wanted to become a bomb-maker,” said Listenbee. “He wanted to leave America and go to Syria an join a terrorist group. He developed bombs in his home and tested those bombs twelve to twenty times in his back yard and in the woods nearby.”

He is also accused of communicating with Khatiba al-Tawhid wal-Jihad, or KTJ — a global terrorist group that is affiliated with Al-Qaeda.

In detailing how far Abdul-Rahman was willing to go to achieve his goals, Listenbee said that he was ready to throw away everything in order to become a bomb-maker for KTJ.

“He was ready to leave his family, his friends, his school and his wrestling team. He had no intention of going to college in the United States,” said Listenbee.

He had obtained his passport, Listenbee said, and at the time of his arrest, he was found in possession of tactical gear, uniforms, radios, knives, and other military items that he intended to bring to Syria.

Also seized at that time, Listenbee said, were two phones, and on them, he claims officials discovered “frightening searches” including focused searches on the Philadelphia Pride March.

Listenbee said that these searches included the location and schedule of the parade, along with information about making “trashcan bombs” and the locations of trashcans along the route of the parade.

“He was at least considering targeting the LGBT community and the pride parade,” Listenbee said. “That did not happen, but, at least, it was important as far as we were concerned that we acknowledge that that was one of the intense searches that occurred.”

In an interview with law enforcement officials, Listenbee said Abdul-Rahman was upset about homosexuality and how it was “pressed upon children in the United States.”

Along with these searches, Listenbee said officials found searches for nuclear power station locations across the region, army-navy football games and the parade, along with details about Fort Bragg and the Pentagon, as well as 40 other military bases and entities.

Yesterday, Listenbee said a judge ruled that Abdul-Rahman would not be amenable to treatment in the juvenile justice system and he will instead be charged as an adult.

He has been in custody since his arrest last year and his bail has been set at $5 million.

Listenbee said that, at this time, no one else in the home Abdul-Rahman lived in with his family, are alleged to have been a part of — and were likely not aware of — the alleged activities that led to these charges.

He has been charged with weapons of mass destruction, criminal conspiracy, arson and related offenses.

Officials said Abdul-Rahman has not entered a plea.

NBC10 reached out to his family to see if he had an attorney but was unable to reach them for comment.

This is a breaking news story. it will be updated as new information becomes available.

From haunted houses to ghost tours to trick-or-treating events, our guide has a little something for everyone during this spooky season.

If you’re unsure where even to start, use the scare-o-meter below to choose your fright level.

Scare-o-meter: 🎃 Night-mare free | 👻 A bit creepy | 🦇 Full terror (Leave the kids at home)

Haunted Houses

Halloween Nights at Eastern State Penitentiary 🦇
📍 2027 Fairmount Ave., Philadelphia

Halloween Nights at the famous Eastern State Penitentiary features five thrilling haunted houses, all within the walls of a real, abandoned 10-acre prison. If you are not interested in the haunted houses, the Penitentiary offers historical tours, themed bars and lounges, and live entertainment. Visit www.easternstate.org to purchase your tickets.

Fright Factory Philly 🦇
📍 2200 S. Swanson St., Philadelphia

Enter at your own risk… Fright Factory is an adult-themed haunted house that is so scary that it has been named one of the scariest haunted attractions in America. Inside a 120-year-old factory lies a basement of nightmares. But be warned, once you’re in, there is no telling if you will make it out. For more information and to purchase your tickets, visit frightfactoryphilly.com.

Lincoln Mill Haunted House 🦇
📍 4100 Main St., Philadelphia

Featuring live scare actors, production-quality sets, animatronics, and special effects, the Lincoln Mill Haunted House is one you don’t want to miss. Rumor has it Viktor Kane, the former mill owner, still lurks in the shadows after he allegedly tormented and experimented on his workers. Check out lincolnmillhaunt.com for ticket information.

Pennhurst Asylum Haunted Attraction 🦇
📍250 Commonwealth Dr, Spring City, PA

You might not sleep for days after visiting Pennhurst Asylum. Located right outside of Philadelphia the former mental hospital will have four haunted attractions that are set to test the limits of your sanity. Purchase your tickets at pennhurstasylum.com.

Ghost Tours

Dark Philly Adult Night Tour 🦇
📍 Independence Visitor Center (1 N. Independence Mall, Philadelphia)

This tour is for “mature audiences” ONLY. The guided dark history tour will take you through the most famous locations throughout Center City, detailing the best-kept secrets that made the city and the nation what it is today. P.S. Don’t forget your camera to capture all the moments and even perhaps a ghost! To book your tour, visit grimphilly.com.

Philly Ghosts: Phantoms of Philadelphia Tour 👻
📍 Tomb of the Unknown Soldier (217 W. Washington Square, Philadelphia)

Discover why the city is known as one of the most haunted places on the East Coast with Philadelphia Ghost Tours. And if you want to learn more about what lingers in Philadelphia’s show, you can book an extended tour for “extra haunted spots and spine-tingling stories.” Visit phillyghosts.com for more information.

Bloodletting and Burials at the Betsy Ross House 🦇
📍239 Arch St., Philadelphia

This is your chance to travel back to 1760 and learn about the city’s gruesome history. If you dare to take this tour, you will meet your guide at Betsy’s grave in the Betsy Ross House courtyard and uncover true tales about bloodletting, smallpox, yellow fever, and so much more. Then, you will head inside for a spooky, shadowy tour. Book your tickets here.

Theme park Halloween celebrations

Six Flags Great Adventure Fright Fest EXTREME 👻
📍1 Six Flags Blvd, Jackson Township, NJ

If you are brave enough, check out Fright Fest Extreme at Six Flags Great Adventure on select nights this fall for a bone-chilling experience. Guests can expect rides in the dark, spooky scare zones, and haunted mazes. For more information and to purchase your tickets today, visit sixflags.com.

Dorney Park Halloween Haunt 👻
📍4000 Dorney Park Rd., Allentown, PA

You better brace yourself for a screaming good time at Dorney Park’s Halloween Haunt. When night falls, hundreds of creatures from the underworld are expected to take over the park. WARNING: Your worst nightmares may come true. Visit dorneypark.com for more information.

The Count’s Halloween Spooktacular at Sesame Place 🎃
📍 100 Sesame Road, Langhorne, PA

Have silly, not-too-spooky fun at the Count’s Halloween Spooktacular. Sesame Place will transform into a family-friendly Halloween haven featuring shows, trick-or-treating, and more. Guests are all also encouraged to wear a costume. For more information, visit sesameplace.com.

Philadelphia Sep 12

Popular Center City bars transform once again for spooky season

New Jersey Aug 1

Spirit Halloween opens flagship store in Egg Harbor Township ahead of spooky season

Family-Friendly Halloween Fun

Boo at the Zoo at the Philadelphia Zoo 🎃
📍 3400 W. Girard Ave., Philadelphia

The Philadelphia Zoo’s annual Halloween extravaganza “Boo at the Zoo” encourages all to dress in your favorite costume, bring a bag and trick-or-treat through the park. You might even catch some animals munching on pumpkins and playing with Halloween-themed toys. For more information and to reserve your tickets, visit philadelphiazoo.org.

Franklin Fright at the Franklin Institute 🎃
📍222 N 20th St., Philadelphia

On select weekends in October, the Franklin Institute is celebrating spooky season with trick-or-treating through the museum, Halloween-inspired live science shows and so much more. This event is free with museum admission, visit fi.edu for more details.

Halloween celebration at The Please Touch Museum 🎃
📍 Memorial Hall (4231 Avenue of the Republic, Philadelphia)

The Please Touch Museum is set to host a day filled with spooky fun and surprises for kiddos to enjoy. The event features special performers, story times, and lots of Halloween-themed activities. Everyone is also encouraged to dress in their favorite costume. Reserve your tickets at pleasetouchmuseum.org.

Spooky Mini Golf at Franklin Square 🎃
📍200 N 6th St., Philadelphia

Franklin Square will transform its 18-hole mini golf course with fog, lights, and music for some spooky Halloween fun. To buy your tickets, visit historicphiladelphia.org/

According to police, the incident happened on Sept. 9 at the Olive Tree Pharmacy located at 235 S. 60th St.

Surveillance video released by police shows two people breaking into the pharmacy, forcing their way into the back, and stealing prescription medication and cash before fleeing.

Police said the suspect fled in a blue Dodge Ram pickup truck.

The suspects wore Nike and Under Armor clothing during the crime, according to police.

According to police, if you see these suspects, do not approach them and contact 911 immediately.

If you have any information about this crime or the suspects, you are urged to contact the Southwest Detective Division at 215-686-3183/3184.

You can also submit a tip by calling or texting 215-686-TIPS (8477).

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According to police, on Saturday, Sept. 14, around 2:45 p.m., a 46-year-old man and a 51-year-old woman were on the 1000 block of Arch St. conducting a public ministry when two unidentified suspects punched them both in the face.

Léelo en español aquí.

The suspects fled the scene and were last seen going south on N. 10 St., police said.

Both victims required treatment at a hospital, resulting in broken teeth, a broken nose, and a concussion, according to police.

If you see these suspects, police said do not approach them and contact 911 immediately.

If you have any information about this crime or the suspects, you are urged to contact the Central Detective Division at 215-686-3093/3094.

You can also submit a tip by calling or texting 215-686-TIPS (8477).

This story uses functionality that may not work in our app. Click here to open the story in your web browser.

According to a statement from the office of District Attorney Kevin Steele, the county has established an Election Day Tip Line — which is available at 610-292-2024 — to allow voters to report any suspicious activity around the ballot drop boxes, at polls on Election Day or threats to election and public officials.

“To anyone thinking about disrupting this election in any way, I’m here to tell you that my office, the Montgomery County Detective Bureau and the entire Montgomery County law enforcement community, is standing together to make sure that we have a fair and safe election, not only on Nov. 5th, but also in the next 50 days leading up to it,” said Steele in a statement. “We will not tolerate abuse of public officials, threats to election officials or abuse of individuals helping out at the drop box locations. Period.”

Officials said that anyone who has concerns of “something of an exigent nature related to the drop boxes such as someone attempting to break into a ballot drop box, vandalizing or damaging a drop box or otherwise doing something criminal, they should immediately call 911, then report it to the Election Tip Line of 610-292-2024.”

Also, if a voter sees any suspicious activity around the ballot boxes, suspicious activity at a polling place or knows of any threat to a public or election official, they should report that information to the Election Tip Line, officials said.

“Tips can include suspicious activity at ballot drop boxes, at polling locations on Election Day or threats to election officials or public officials,” officials said in a statement.

Montgomery County Detectives will review tips for potential criminal activity or possible violations of the election code and, officials said in a statement, threat reports will be referred to the Montgomery County Detective Bureau’s newly launched Threat Assessment Management Unit.

The Threat Assessment Management Unit, officials said, is charged with investigating “any threats against public officials, election officials, schools, houses of worship and any activity that endangers the community at large and individuals within the county.”

The 18 secure ballot drop-box locations, spread throughout Montgomery County, will be available to drop off ballots beginning in early October and continue through 8 p.m. on Election Day.

All ballot drop-box locations are under video surveillance.

Addresses for secure drop boxes, as well as voting instructions, can be found on the county’s website at https://www.montgomerycountypa.gov/3587/Secure-Ballot-Drop-Box-Locations.

First Assistant District Attorney Ed McCann Jr., Assistant District Attorney Jediah Grobstein and Montgomery County Detectives will work with federal, state, county and local law enforcement, as well as other government officials, to protect access to and the integrity of the Nov. 5, 2024 election.

Reported violations of election laws will be investigated, and if appropriate, prosecuted.

Any potential problems on Election Day, should be reported to the Election Tip Line at 610-292-2024, emailing jediah.grobstein@montgomerycountypa.gov or by calling the County Department of Public Safety Communications Center at 610-275-1222.

The event will be hosted by Uncle Boobies Bookstore at Enon Tabernacle Baptist Church located at 2800 W. Cheltenham Ave on Wednesday, Sept. 19, at 7 p.m.

Eve is expected to have a captivating discussion about the memoir, her life and her incomparable career.

Event organizers say all tickets to the event come with a signed copy of the new book.

In the book, Eve talks about everything from growing up in West Philadelphia and Germantown to becoming the successful superstar she is today.

For more information on the book event, visit unclebobbies.com/events.

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True to form, she won’t be playing favorites between her sons, Kansas City Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce and recently retired Philadelphia Eagles center Jason Kelce. “Holiday Touchdown: A Chiefs Love Story” revolves around a “fan of the year” contest for the team, while “Christmas on Call” features a die-hard Eagles fan who helps his love interest get to know Philadelphia, according to a release from the Hallmark Channel this week.

While Mama Kelce is no stranger to the camera, having appeared in Jason Kelce’s documentary and many a gameday photo, the two movies mark her acting debut. In “Holiday Touchdown,” she plays the manager of a barbecue restaurant. And while it’s unclear whether she’s playing a character or herself in “Christmas on Call,” her role is to ensure one of the leads “orders her Cheesesteak the authentic way – ‘whiz wit.’”

The cameo announcements follow Travis Kelce’s own forays into Hollywood — having hosted “Saturday Night Live” in early 2023, before his relationship with Taylor Swift sent his profile stratospheric, he’s now set to act in Ryan Murphy’s “Grotesquerie” and host “Are You Smarter Than a Celebrity?” He also earned his first producer credit this year.

Jason Kelce, meanwhile, has joined ESPN as an analyst. He’ll also have a song in one of his mom’s movies: “Christmas on Call” will feature “Santa Drives an Astrovan,” by The Philly Specials — also known as Jason Kelce and Eagles players Jordan Mailata and Lane Johnson — featuring Mt. Joy, the release said. It’s from an upcoming album from which proceeds will go to the Children’s Crisis Treatment Center and Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia.

The Kelce brothers also recently inked a blockbuster deal with Amazon’s Wondery for their popular “New Heights” podcast.

An Italy-based pizzeria ranker released its list of the top 50 best pizza places in the world, and a Philadelphia restaurant made the cut.

Pizzeria Beddia, located in the city’s Fishtown neighborhood, was ranked No. 13.

You can find the restaurant, which specializes in not only pizza but also pizza parties and a hoagie room, at 1313 N. Lee Street.

The “Hoagie Room” is a two-hour private pizza and hoagie-tasting experience for parties of 6, while the “Pizza Party” is a two-hour dining experience with a set menu for groups of 7 to 24.

The menu has various pizza options, side plates, and a list of wines, cocktails, beers, and beverages.

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The embattled president of Rutgers University announced Tuesday that he will step down next year after a tenure that has included contending with the COVID-19 pandemic, overseeing the university’s first-ever strike and surviving a no-confidence vote by the faculty senate.

Jonathan Holloway, 57, who became the first Black president of New Jersey’s flagship institution of higher learning when he took office in the summer of 2020, said he will leave office when the current academic year ends June 30. He then plans to take a yearlong sabbatical before returning to the university as a fulltime professor.

“This decision is my own and reflects my own rumination about how best to be of service,” Holloway wrote in a statement posted on the university’s website on Sept. 17, 2024. Holloway said that he notified the chairwoman of the Rutgers Board of Governors about his plans last month.

Rutgers President Jonathan Holloway announced today that he will conclude his service as the university’s 21st president after completing his fifth year on June 30, 2025.

Read Holloway's letter to the Rutgers community: https://t.co/3VsJfTVkGl pic.twitter.com/SmwBSZ8zEy

— Rutgers University (@RutgersU) September 17, 2024

“Serving as the university president has been an enormous privilege and responsibility,” he wrote. “Throughout my tenure, I have been appreciative of the former and respectful of the latter. I welcomed the opportunity to join the Rutgers community in July 2020 because I found inspiration in the possibilities that this institution represented: a belief that cutting-edge research could thrive in a university that was committed to making education as accessible as possible to a profoundly diverse student population. The reality behind this inspiration has been reaffirmed time and again during my tenure.”

Holloway currently receives a base salary of $888,540 and bonus pay of $214,106 for a total of more than $1.1 million a year. He will receive his full salary during his sabbatical, school officials said.

Holloway began his tenure in the throes of the COVID-19 pandemic, as students were returning to campus from lockdown, and also dealt with the first faculty strike in school history last year, when thousands of professors, part-time lecturers and graduate student workers hit the picket lines. He also faced a largely symbolic no-confidence vote by the faculty senate in September 2023 and received national scrutiny earlier this year from Republican lawmakers for his decision to end a pro-Palestinian encampment through negotiations rather than police force.

Founded in 1766, Rutgers has nearly 68,000 students in its system.

School officials said Tuesday that they plan to conduct a national search to find the university’s next president. They noted that during Holloway’s presidency, Rutgers broke records in undergraduate admissions, climbed significantly in national rankings and exceeded its fundraising goals.

Vice President Kamala Harris on Tuesday laid out how her economic proposals could specifically help young Black men, a key Democratic voting bloc that polls show Republican former President Donald Trump gaining ground with in this election cycle.

“I think it’s very important to not operate from the assumption that Black men are in anybody’s pocket,” Harris said in a sit-down interview with a panel from the National Association of Black Journalists. “I’m working to earn the vote, not assuming I’m going to have it because I am Black.”

A new poll by the civil rights group NAACP released Friday found that more than a quarter of Black men under 50 years old support Trump over Harris.

To win those votes, Harris is focused on an economic argument. At NABJ, she described embarking on an “economic opportunity tour focused on Black men” earlier this year, before she was a candidate for president.

She also pointed to her work “getting billions more dollars” into community banks to expand access to startup capital.

“We have so many entrepreneurs in the community who do not have access to capital, but they’ve got great ideas, an incredible work ethic, the ambition, the aspiration, the dream … but don’t have the relationships, necessarily” to get financing or grow a small business, Harris said.

The Democratic presidential nominee cited proposals like a $50,000 small business tax deduction and the elimination of medical debt from credit scores — both of which she believes would target historic economic disparities within Black communities.

“When they do better economically, we all do better,” said Harris.

Proposals like these could help Harris address two distinct vulnerabilities for the Democratic party in this election cycle: public perceptions of the economy, and young Black men who lean toward voting for Trump.

Before Harris took over the Democratic ticket from President Joe Biden in July, NBC News polling found 25% of Black voter respondents ages 18 to 49 favored Trump over Biden.

Biden won 92% of Black voters in the 2020 election, according to a Pew Research Center analysis. The prospect that Democrats could lose a quarter of prime voting age Black adults to a Republican set off alarm bells.

Polls suggest that Trump’s unusual strength with Black voters this election cycle could be due in part to nostalgia for the pre-Covid economy that he presided over.

Over the course of the Biden-Harris administration, high costs of living became the utmost voter concern, as the U.S. economy precariously recovered from the sky-high inflation in the wake of the pandemic.

As Harris works to pitch herself as the candidate of economic relief, her campaign is simultaneously working to shore up Black voter support.

During his own sit-down with NABJ journalists in July, Trump drew backlash for impugning Harris’ racial identity and calling her a “DEI hire.” He also scolded the interviewers for their questions about his past remarks about Black people, which both Democrats and Republicans have said were racist.

“It was the same old show. The divisiveness and the disrespect,” Harris said Tuesday about Trump’s NABJ appearance. “And let me just say, the American people deserve better.”

The wreck took place in the northbound lanes of Interstate 476 past Exit 9 – PA 3 – Broomall/Upper Darby just before 3:40 a.m. on Sept. 18, 2024, 511PA.com said.

UPDATE: Overturned dump truck, 4 vehicles involved, and a diesel spill. All lanes of I-476 NB past Exit 9/Broomall remain shut down. @NBCPhiladelphia pic.twitter.com/VdyPqkmyC1

— Matt DeLucia (@MattDeLucia) September 18, 2024

The crash — which involved a fuel spill — left I-476 closed up to Exit 13 – St. Davids/Villanova past 6 a.m. Rain was falling as crews continued to work to clear the scene.

Delaware County dispatchers said there were no immediate reports of injuries.

It took until nearly 9 a.m. for I-476 northbound to reopen.

According to police, the incident happened at about 4:30 a.m., when an ambulance was at a red light at the intersection of Roosevelt Boulevard and Whitaker Avenue, when it was struck by a vehicle that ran the light.

The impact caused the ambulance to flip onto its side, and officials said, the three medics inside were hurt in the crash.

Law enforcement officials said there was no patient in the ambulance at the time of the crash and the medics only suffered minor injuries.

The driver of the car that struck the ambulance refused treatment at the scene, according to police officials.

The roadway at that intersection was closed for nearly two hours due to the crash, but the roadway was reopened as of about 6 a.m.

An investigation into this incident is still ongoing, officials said.

The Brandywine Valley SPCA (BVSPCA) is expanding to South Jersey to become the first Animal Welfare Organization in the country to operate in three states: New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and Delaware.

The shelter has partnered with the Animal Adoption Center (ACC) in Lindenwold “to expand life-saving initiatives in a unified effort and create positive change for animals in need across the tri-state area.”

Currently, BVSPCA operates and cares for more than 17,000 lost, stray, owner-surrendered, abused, and neglected animals in Chester, Delaware, Montgomery counties in Pennsylvania, and the entire state of Delaware, all while maintaining a 93% live release rate.

The organization’s no-kill initiatives will continue with the new affiliation with AAC.

“We’re excited for the future, as we enter into this partnership to join the efforts of our dedicated staff and volunteers with the expertise of the Brandywine Valley SPCA to elevate our level of care for the animals we serve,” Kathryn Lambert, AAC Board Chair said.

“We see a real opportunity for growth and a need in this area of South Jersey, and we are committed to taking the steps necessary to bring our proven track record as a leader in animal welfare, and progressive programs and services into this community where there is still work to be done,” BVSPCA and AAC Chief Executive Officer Adam Lamb added.

Clear the Shelters Sep 7

The positive impact NBC10's Clear the Shelters campaign has on pets, families

Clear the Shelters Jun 21

Want to hang out with a dog for a day? Brandywine Valley SPCA launches new program where you can

Earlier this year, BVSPCA extended its life-saving initiative into Central Pennsylvania with a new partnership with the Humane Society of Harrisburg Area (HSHA), which serves Dauphin, Cumberland, and Perry counties.

Since the affiliation, officials from BVSPCA said HSHA has met the no-kill benchmark of more than 90% save rate for eight months in a row. BVSPCA’s work in Delaware also helped create the first no-skill state in the country.

Find the nearest location to support all the adoptable animals at theaacnj.org and bvspca.org.

Roman died on Sept. 10, 2024, two months after he was shot during a traffic stop in Kensington.

In an online memorial, Roman was remembered as a devoted husband to his wife, Jazmin Hernandez and a doting father to his seven-year-old daughter, Evelina Roman and 4-year-old son, Jaime Roman.

“In his free time Jaime enjoyed spending time outdoors, running or biking, long drives while listening to country music, and building Lego sets with his son, but above all his greatest joy in life was his family,” the memorial reads. “Jaime was known for his ability to sense when others needed help. He consistently prioritized the needs and wellbeing of others. Jazmin describes him as the most selfless person she has ever met. He will be remembered as a cherished husband, father, son, brother, grandson, and friend. Jaime will live on in the hearts of all who loved him.”

Also, Roman, the memorial noted, graduated from Philadelphia’s Nueva Esperanza High School in 2011, and srved as a Philadelphia Police Department officer for nearly seven years.

“During his time on the force, Jaime forged countless friendships within his police family,” notes the memorial. “He will be fondly remembered for his honorable dedication to others, magnetic sense of humor and his deep devotion to serve.”

Philadelphia’s City Council has cancelled its planned meeting for Thursday in order to allow councilmembers to attend the funeral. Also, Philadelphia Mayor Cherelle Parker is expected to attend the services on Thursday, as well.

Kensington Sep 10

‘He will never, ever be forgotten': Officials remember Philly officer who died weeks after being shot

Philadelphia Sep 11

‘Deeply missed.' Officials remember Philly officer who died after he was shot in the line of duty

Philadelphia police Sep 11

‘I saw my son': Philly police commissioner remembers officer who died after shooting

According to the Philadelphia Police Department, since 1828, more than 260 Philadelphia Police officers have given their lives in the line of duty.

Roman’s friends and relatives are invited to Jaime’s Life Celebration on Wednesday, Sept. 18, 2024, from 5:30 to 8 p.m. at John F. Givnish Life Celebration Home of Philadelphia, located at 10975 Academy Road.

An additional viewing will be held on Thursday, Sept. 19, 2024, at Cathedral Basilica of Saints Peter and Paul of Philadelphia, at 1723 Race Street, from 8 to 11 am with his Funeral Mass to follow at noon.

Also, police officials said that there will be a procession from the Philadelphia Public Services Building at 15th and Callowhill Streets, to the Cathedral Basilica beginning at 6 a.m. on Thursday, Sept. 19, 2024.

Police officials said that Mayor Parker, Police Commissioner Kevin J. Bethel, officers from the 25th Police District, and the Philadelphia Police Department’s executive team will be escorting Police Officer Jaime Roman to the Basilica.

Interment will be private, officials said.

To share memories of Jaime, please visit www.lifecelebration.com or call 215-281-0100.

On Sept. 13, three unknown men spray painted graffiti on the side of a building along the 1500 block of Walnut Street at around 1:40 a.m., according to the police.

The graffiti caused damage to the building estimated to be valued at $250.

The police released video of the incident and still photos of the suspects.

Officials said the offenders left the area walking north on 100 S 16th St.

This is the second time vandals spray painted graffiti on this building along Walnut Street.

On August 22, police said two unknown men also spray painted graffiti on the side of a building along the 1500 block of Walnut Street at 12:02 a.m.

In this incident the damage was estimated at $500.

Police also released surveillance video, still photos and descriptions of the two individuals seen in the video.

The first suspect is described by police as a man with dark hair and a mustache who was wearing a gray hat, black t-shirt, tan pants and white sneakers.

The second suspect is described by police as a man with a mustache who was wearing a red and blue hat, black jacket and black pants.

If you have any information about this crime or these suspects, you can contact the Central Detective Division at 215-686-3047/3048 or submit a tip via call or text at 215-686-TIPS (8477).

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If you’re not into being scared but still want to enjoy some fun fall festivities, continue reading for our guide to what’s on tap this autumn.

Philadelphia

Free Philadelphia Fall Arts Fest

Ensemble Arts is launching its 2024/2025 season with live performances and various showcases. A small ensemble from the Philadelphia Orchestra will perform and there will be a chance to design your own jewelry with the Carribean Community of Philadelphia.

Events begin at the Commonwealth Plaza on Sept. 21 at 11 a.m. with more happening at the Perelman Theater starting at 11:50 a.m.

Click here for more information.

Mid-Autumn Festival

Thousands of residents and families will head over to Philadelphia’s Chinatown neighborhood for the 29th annual Mid-Autumn Festival as the community gives thanks under the Harvest Moon on Sept. 21.

The event runs from Noon to 8 p.m. on 10th Street from Arch to Winter streets.

There will be lion dances, Chinese opera performances, carnival games and much more.

Click here for more information.

Midtown Village Fall Festival

Midtown Village will be taken over by the community’s 17th annual Fall Festival from Noon to 8 p.m. on Sept. 28 with food, crafts and live music.

Organizers say the footprint for the one-day festival is:

• 13th Street – from Locust to Market streets
  · Sansom Street – from Broad to 12th streets
  · Drury Street – from Juniper to 13th streets
  · Chancellor Street – from Juniper to 13th streets
  · Chestnut Street – from Broad to 12th streets

Click here for more information.

Fringe Arts Festival

The Philadelphia Fringe Festival is running until Sept. 29 and features theater, film screenings and immersive experiences.

Click here for more information.

Fishtown Festivale

For the third year in a row, Frankford Avenue in Fishtown will be closed on Sept. 28 from Noon to 8 p.m. for the Fishtown Festivale.

There will be a dunk tank and carnival games as well as over 50 local art and retail vendors.

Click here for more information.

Pennsylvania

Fall Foliage Festival in Jim Thorpe

Every weekend from Oct. 5 through Oct. 20, visitors to Jim Thorpe can check out the Fall Foliage Festival with train rides, crafts, food and live music.

Click here for more information.

Downington Fall Fest

Great food, crafts and the Victory Beer Garden all come together to form the Downingtown Fall Fest on Sunday, Oct. 6 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.

The event shuts down Green Street and East Pennsylvania Avenue in Chester County allowing vendors and visitors to enjoy the event.

Click here for more information.

Harvest Fest in Bethlehem

On Saturday, Oct. 12 from Noon to 5 p.m. adults 21 and up can explore shops, restaurants and the festival grounds on Bethlehem’s Historic Main Street.

Participants can try the food and “brews that make Bethlehem special.”

Click here for more information.

Octoberfest at Peddler’s Village

For the eighth year in a row Peddler’s Village is hosting their Octoberfest bringing visitors a weekend stuffed with food trucks, entertainment and family-friendly activities.

The event happens in Bucks County on Saturday, Oct. 12 and Sunday, Oct. 13 from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.

While you’re there don’t forget to check out their free Scarecrows in the Village tradition.

Click here for more information.

Fall Fest in Upper Gwynedd Township

Fun, rides and games including a petting zoo and hayrides will take over at Parkside Place on Saturday, Oct. 19. The event runs from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. and is free.

During the fest, former Philadelphia Eagle Hollis Thomas will make an appearance!

Click here for more information.

New Jersey

Oktoberfest at Morey’s Piers in Wildwood

The Mariner’s Pier will be open every Friday through Sunday from now until mid-October for its annual Oktoberfest. Live music as well as German-styled foods and beer will be on tap.

• Fridays from 6 p.m. to 10:30 p.m.
• Saturdays from Noon to 10:30 p.m.
• Sundays from Noon to 5 p.m.

Click here for more information.

Mullica Hill Fall Festival and Living History Weekend

For the 52nd year, Mullica Hill is hosting its annual Fall Festival with lots of family fun. Everything from live music to glass-blowing demonstrations and food trucks on Oct. 12 and 13.

The living history part of the festivities will feature authentic Civil War camps and battle reenactments.

Click here for more information.

Tri-State Sunflower Festival and Pumpkin Fest at Dalton Farms

You can pick you own sunflowers and pumpkins as well as enjoy live music, a corn maze and tractor rides at Dalton Farms in Swedesboro this fall season.

• Tri-State Sunflower Festival runs until Oct. 27
• Pumpkin Fest runs Sept. 21 through Oct. 27

Click here for more information.

Fintastic Pumpkin Glow at Adventure Aquarium

A new sort of fin-friendly animal is taking over at the Adventure Aquarium in Camden this spooky season until Nov. 3. The aquarium said that super-sized aquatic animals made of pumpkins are all over for some fun.

There will be underwater pumpkin carvers and other illuminating surprises for visitors of all ages.

Click here for more information.

Kids Boo Fest at Six Flags

Family-friendly rides, a trick or treat trail and various boo fest-themed activities make up the Kids Boo Fest at Six Flags Great Adventure from now until Nov. 3

Click here for more information.

For the big kids, Six Flags is also hosting their annual Fright Fest.

Delaware

Fall Fest in Wyoming

The pumpkins and apples are waiting to be picked at Fifers Orchards in Wyoming, Del. The farm will have family-friendly attractions along with homemade apple cider and kettle corn.

Fall Fest runs from Sept. 21 through Nov. 9 from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Click here for more information.

Bridgeville Apple-Scrapple Festival

Hundreds of vendors and local crafters will descend upon Delaware for the Apple-Scrapple Festival in October. There will also be carnival rides, a food court and a Little Miss Pageant.

• Friday, Oct. 11 starting at 4 p.m.
• Saturday, Oct. 12 starting at 9 a.m.

Click here for more information.

Punkin Ale Fest

Food trucks and local vendors will be at the annual Punkin Ale Fest hosted by Dogfish Head at the Milton Brewery on Saturday, Oct. 12.

Click here for more information.

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On Sept. 18, burger lovers will celebrate National Cheeseburger Day, and many restaurants are firing up the grill and giving customers some juicy deals to bite into. Ready to join in on the celebration? Here are a plethora of discounts and freebies to choose from.

Dog Haus 

Dog Haus will run a buy one, get one free cheeseburger offer for rewards members on Sept. 18. The offer is available in the chain’s app.

Eddie Merlot’s

On Sept. 18, Eddie Merlot’s customers can order Eddie’s Prime Cheeseburger for $15 between 4 — 6:30 p.m. Pricing and participation can vary based on location.

Farm Burger

Grass-fed burger chain Farm Burger is running a build-your-own cheeseburger deal starting at $5 on National Cheeseburger Day.

Farmer Boys

Farmer Boys customers can order the chain’s Big Cheese cheeseburger for just $4 on National Cheeseburger Day between 2 p.m. and close at participating locations while supplies last. The offer can’t be combined with other deals, is limited to two burgers per customer and is available in restaurant or in the drive-thru.

Very Important Farmer (VIF) loyalty members can also get an extra surprise when they scan their receipt.

Friendly’s

Friendly’s Fan Club members can save $2 on cheeseburgers between Sept. 18 — 20.

Hat Creek

Hat Creek customers who order the Little Hat Burger in the chain’s app will score the menu item for just $2 on Sept. 18.

Instacart

Instacart customers can get $10 off their $20 purchase from the National Cheeseburger Day product collection, which features meat, cheese, buns, condiments and more. The offer is valid at select retailers via Instacart. 

Krystal

Krystal is currently running a limited-time offer for 12 cheese Krystals for just $15.

McDonald’s

McDonald’s customers who order in the chain’s app can enjoy a 50-cent double cheeseburger on Sept. 18.

Omaha Steaks

Omaha Steaks is offering the following deals in honor of National Cheeseburger Day:

• Perfect Burger Pack for $99.99
• Custom Burger Experience With Free Brioche Buns for $129.99
• Deluxe Burger Experience for $131.46
• Butcher’s Burger Assortment for $188.46

Red Robin

Between Sept. 17 — 19, Red Robin customers can get a Gourmet Cheeseburger, bottomless side and drink for just $10 (regularly $14.99 or more) while dining in at participating restaurants.

Sonic

For a limited time, Sonic customers can order a quarter pound double cheeseburger for just $1.99.

Smashburger

Smashburger customers can score $5 Classic Singles on National Cheeseburger Day in store, online and in the restaurant’s app using the code CLASSIC24. The offer includes Classic Singles, Classic Single Turkey Burgers and Classic Single Black Bean Burgers.

Sullivan’s Steakhouse

Between 3 — 6 p.m. on Sept. 18, Sullivan’s Steakhouse customers can order the restaurant’s signature beef burger sliders for just $10. Pricing and participation can vary by location.

Wahlburgers

Wahlburgers adult burgers will be 50% off on Sept. 18 at participating locations. The offer is valid in-store and online, and excludes doubles, triples, sandwiches and Smahlburgers. It’s limited to one per customer and can’t be combined with other offers.

Wayback Burgers

Wayback Burgers is running a buy one, get one free deal on its classic burgers on Sept. 18.

Wendy’s

Between Sept. 18 — 22, Wendy’s customers can get a Jr. Bacon Cheeseburger for $0.1 with any purchase while placing an app order at participating restaurants.

Whataburger

On National Cheeseburger Day, Whataburger rewards members who place an app or online order for a patty melt, Sweet & Spicy Bacon Burger or a Whataburger with cheese will be entered for the chance to win free Whataburger for a year. Winners will receive their prize in the form of 52 coupons, which can be redeemed at participating locations.

White Castle

White Castle is running a buy one cheese slider, get one free deal on National Cheeseburger Day. To score the deal, simply use the code SAYCHEESE in the restaurant’s app.

In addition, customers can buy a sack of 10 cheese sliders for $7.99 ($8.99 in New York, New Jersey, Florida and Arizona) through November 10.

This article first appeared on TODAY.com. Read more from TODAY here:

• The healthiest lunch for weight loss includes these 5 components, according to a dietitian
• Wendy’s is selling Jr. Bacon Cheeseburgers for 1 cent for 5 days
• McDonald’s is selling double cheeseburgers for 50 cents — but only for 1 day

“The atmosphere at the ballpark this season has been electric, thanks to the best fans in baseball,” Phillies Senior Vice President of Ticket Operations and Projects, John Weber, said. “We’re thrilled about the possibility of another Red October in Philadelphia. We encourage fans to sign up at phillies.com/postseason for a chance to purchase tickets to a postseason game at Citizens Bank Park.”

Here’s what fans need to know:

• Only eligible fans whose registration is selected in the random drawing(s) happening for each round will have the opportunity, subject to availability, to purchase tickets.

• Registration for all potential rounds of the postseason on phillies.com/postseason will end on Saturday, October 12, at 11:59 p.m. EDT.
• Once registered, fans will be eligible for a ticket opportunity for all potential postseason rounds.
• Entries randomly selected will be notified via email with an opportunity to purchase postseason home game tickets based upon availability.
• Registration does not guarantee you the opportunity to purchase Phillies postseason tickets.

“Given that our season ticket base has doubled to 20,000 in the past two years, ticket availability will be extremely limited through this opportunity,” Weber said.

You can find a complete list of rules and terms and conditions here.

Fans may also purchase Phillies postseason tickets via SeatGeek, the Official Fan-to-Fan Ticket Marketplace of the Phillies and Major League Baseball.

Several brand-new exhibits are coming as well as a collections gallery that’s two stories at the Franklin Institute when it opens in November.

Two of the new exhibits will surround the fan-favorite Giant Heart as well as the Baldwin Locomotive.

The President and CEO of the Franklin Institute, Larry Dubinski told NBC10 that the Giant Heart is decades old. This upgrade will keep the heart the same, but the paper mache creation has been “fiber-glassed over.”

“It has been cleaned up a little bit,” Dubinski said. “It will also have an exhibition in it which you’re going to hear your heartbeat coming from the Giant Heart.”

The transformation at the Franklin Institute has been an 18-month project that has taken several years as museum leaders worked to reimage the experience for visitors.

The Giant Heart closed back in May of 2024 as the museum began the procedure.

The Hamilton Collections Gallery and the Body Odyssey are both scheduled to open on Saturday, Nov. 23.

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🌭 The Philadelphia Flyers on Monday unveiled their 2024-25 promotional schedule for games at the Wells Fargo Center. Included among the theme nights and giveaways were two special nights dedicated to Dietz & Watson dollar hot dogs.

Flyers Dollar Dog Nights are scheduled for Monday, Nov. 18, 2024, against the Colorado Avalanche and Monday, Jan. 13, 2025, against the Florida Panthers.

$1 food includes more than just hot dogs this Flyers season

The cheap food fun doesn’t stop with those games as fans can buy $1 Super Pretzels 🥨 during the Thursday, March 27, 2025, games against the Montreal Canadiens and grab $1 Turkey Hill ice cream 🍨 during the Saturday, April 12, 2025, game against the New York Islanders.

What freebies can Flyers fans get?

One buck too much? How about free?

Giveaways during the 2024-25 season include home opener t-shirts on Sunday, Oct. 19, vs. Vancouver Canucks; Flyers fanny packs on Saturday, Oct. 26, vs. Minnesota Wild; a Coors Light giveaway on Thursday, March 13, vs. Tampa Bay Lightning; and a Flyers placemat on Saturday, March 15, vs. Carolina Hurricanes.

The highlight (or maybe it’s just nightmare fuel) of the giveaways has to be the Gritty night light giveaway for fans during the Saturday, Feb. 22, game against Edmonton.

Theme nights and community fun during 2024 Flyers season

Fans of Star Wars (Nov. 16), Halloween (Oct. 31) and Marvel (March 8) all have theme nights for them.

Community night include military appreciation on Monday, Nov. 11, Pride Night on Jan. 21 and the March 4 PAL game.

There are plenty of other promotions set for the 2024-25 Flyers season. Click here to get tickets to the game you don’t want to miss.

“It’s a crying shame. Literally,” Harris said in her most extensive remarks to date about her Republican opponent’s baseless claims.

“I know that people are deeply troubled by what is happening to that community in Springfield, Ohio, and it’s got to stop,” she said during a discussion hosted by the National Association of Black Journalists.

Follow live campaign coverage here

The city has been hit with dozens of bomb threats, some at elementary schools, after Trump and his running mate, Sen. JD Vance of Ohio, promoted false rumors that immigrants were eating residents’ pet dogs and cats.

“I mean, my heart breaks for this community. You know there were children, elementary school children,” who had to be evacuated on what was supposed to be school picture day, Harris said.

 “A whole community put in fear,” she added.

During last week’s presidential debate, which was viewed by more than 67 million people, Trump said: “In Springfield, they’re eating the dogs. The people that came in. They’re eating the cats. They’re eating — they’re eating the pets of the people that live there.”

Harris said of Trump on Tuesday, “When you have that kind of microphone in front of you, you really ought to understand how much your words have meaning.”

“You say you care about law enforcement? Law enforcement resources being put into this because of these serious threats,” Harris said.

“The American people deserve and, I do believe, want better than this,” she added.

The Trump campaign did not immediately respond to a request for comment on Harris’ remarks.

Vance, speaking at an event in Michigan, said he and Trump are not to blame for the threats to Springfield.

“The governor of Ohio came out yesterday and said every single one of those bomb threats was a hoax, and all of those bomb threats came from foreign countries. So the American media for three days has been lying and saying that Donald Trump and I are inciting bomb threats when, in reality, the American media has been laundering for this information. It is disgusting,” he said Tuesday.

In his statement Monday, Gov. Mike DeWine, a Republican, said that “many of these threats are coming from overseas,” but he did not say all of them originated abroad. He also announced he was deploying dozens of state troopers to help sweep schools.

DeWine was in Springfield on Tuesday and visited elementary school students accompanied by a therapy dog.

In an interview with ABC News on Sunday, DeWine said the immigrants in Springfield are there legally, that there is no evidence that they have been eating pets and that the conspiracy theories were “garbage.”

Springfield Mayor Rob Rue, a Republican, told reporters Tuesday that school attendance is down and that “there’s a high level of fear in our community,” which has been plagued by threats to government offices, as well.

“We did not have threats seven days ago,” Rue said, referring to the Sept. 10 presidential debate, at which Trump amplified the baseless claims.

“We need those on the national stage to stop this and tell the truth,” he said.

This story first appeared on NBCNews.com. More from NBC News:

• Bernie Sanders says Ozempic can be produced for less than $100 a month
• Two or three cups of coffee a day is linked to a lower risk of heart and metabolic disease
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Troopers responded to a car in a ditch along the 400 block of East Denney’s Road in Dover around 6 p.m. on Sept. 16, 2024, to find a 45-year-old man dead in car from what appeared to be a gunshot wound, Delaware State Police said.

Police didn’t reveal any details about the shooting and said the man wasn’t being named as they notified family.

The state police homicide unit investigated the killing. Anyone with information is asked to call Detective A. Bluto by calling (302) 741-2859. Tips can also be submitted to Delaware Crime Stoppers and by messaging state police on Facebook.

According to a Sept. 17, 2024, statement from the office of Acting Mercer County Prosecutor Theresa Hilton, Don-Diego Parkman, 19, of Hamilton, has been arrested and charged with aggravated sexual assault, manufacturing and possession of child sexual abuse material, endangering the welfare of a child and other charges after an investigation that began earlier this month.

In the statement, Hilton’s office claims they were contacted by law enforcement officials in Missouri after a preteen girl there was, allegedly, found to have been chatting and exchanging child sexual abuse materials at the direction of Parkman.

“An investigation was initiated and detectives discovered that, in addition to exchanging sexually-explicit messages and photos with the preteen girl, Parkman was directing her to take photos and videos of herself engaging in sexual conduct to send to him,” claims a statement from Hilton’s office.

A search was conducted at Parkman’s Mercer County home last week, where, officials said, Parkman was taken into custody and “detectives seized multiple items of evidentiary value.”

Officials said that during the course of this investigation law enforcement officials learned that Parkman has been employed as a costumed character and mascot by several companies including Six Flags Great Adventure, Somerset Baseball Partners, Devils Arena Entertainment, and most recently, Sesame Place in Bucks County.

Hilton’s office has filed a motion in order to detain Parkman as he awaits trial.

NBC10 is attempting to get comments from the venues where Parkman worked.

A representative with Six Flags Great Adventure told NBC10 that they would not comment on an ongoing investigation, but they said Parkman had been hired by the company.

“We can confirm this person was hired after passing a criminal background check but never actually worked,” the representative said in a statement to NBC10.

Meanwhile, a spokesperson with the Devils Center told NBC10 that Parkman will not be returning as an employee.

“Don Diego Parkman worked for the team for approximately six months last season in a part time role, and hasn’t worked here since April. He will not be returning this season,” Pete Albietz, senior Vice President of Communications and Team Ops with the Devils & Prudential Center, said in a statement.

Also, on Wednesday, representative from Sesame Place told NBC10 that Parkman’s arrest was not related to his work there and that he had been fired.

“Parkman is no longer employed by Sesame Place. His arrest is not related to Sesame Place, and any questions should be directed to the Mercer County Prosecutor’s Office,” a park representative said in a statement.

Hilton is asking anyone with information about suspected improper contact by unknown persons communicating with children via the internet or possible exploitation or sexual abuse of children to contact the Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Unit at (609) 989-6568 or the New Jersey Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force tip line at (888) 648-6007.

Murder charges were filed on Sept. 16, 2024, against 37-year-old Cynthia Viquez, Wilmington police announced Tuesday.

Léelo en español aquí.

Viquez was initially arrested on assault charges on Sept. 4 after police found 89-year-old Leonor Gonzalez-Ortiz dead inside a South Jackson Street home during a welfare check the night before, police said.

It was later “determined that she had been assaulted, resulting in her death,” police said.

Charges against Viquez were upgraded to murder and lying to police on Monday and a judge set bail at more than $1 million.

It was unclear if Viquez had an attorney who could comment while she was behind bars.

But, the person they have in mind is currently being investigated by the county’s District Attorney’s office.

In Collingdale, a parking spot for the police chief has been empty since January of 2024.

A plan to fill that spot was on the agenda for the town’s council meeting on Tuesday, Sept. 17, 2024.

But, the meeting took a turn when members of the Delaware County Fraternal Order of Police tried to speak, but council president Ryan Hastings wouldn’t allow it since they weren’t on the speaking list or residents of Collingdale.

The candidate in question is Rhaheem Blanden who has been with Chester City Police for more than 15 years. Most recently, he’s been a corporal detective of major crimes.

Blanden showed up to the meeting and some did not like that.

He stood face to face with one person before eventually stopping to talk to NBC10.

“I don’t know anything about a criminal investigation with CID. That’s all I know and all I have to say,” Blanden said.

The town’s council decided not to vote on the new chief but the FOP says they are not backing down.

“I don’t know what their rush is to hire this individual so fast. They just posted the job posting on Thursday night,” Delco FOP president Chris Eiserman said. “I think the council president is arrogant, I think he’s going to do what he wants to do. I can tell you this, we’re going to be here next month, and we’re gonna be here with five hundred cops and like a thousand teamsters.”

Eiserman claimed that back in April in Folcroft, Blanden allegedly tipped off a suspect who was wanted for attempted homicide five minutes before officers raided the house.

The Delaware County District Attorney’s Office confirmed with NBC10 that they have a criminal investigation ongoing into Blanden.

“He put every officer at danger by calling this individual and attempting to let them know that the SWAT team was coming to the house,” Eiserman said.

Blanden is not a member of the Delco FOP but he is a member of the Chester City Fraternal Order of Police which did not respond to NBC10’s request for comment.

NBC10 also reached out earlier on Tuesday, Sept. 17 to Blanden to give him a chance to share his perspective.

He did not respond to our calls, text messages, or Facebook requests. Blanden also did not answer when our crews knocked on his door.

Residents have mixed opinions.

One woman who works in Collingdale told NBC10 that she thinks, “they should pump the brakes on electing him or giving him that power, because you don’t know who you’re putting in office now, which can jeopardize the whole community.”

“I mean, he hasn’t been convicted. You know, in this country, should be innocent until proven guilty,” Collingdale resident Mike Robinson said.

Collingdale Police says they are not commenting on this issue.

NBC10 also reached out to Collingdale Mayor Donna Matteo-Spadea to ask why there is a rush to hire before the investigation is complete, but she also has not responded.

The council in Delaware Co. does not have another candidate to recommend for Collingdale Chief.

But, even if Blanden is exonerated after the investigation, Eiserman explained why he doesn’t think Blanden should be chosen.

“I think, ethically and morally, what he did is wrong. So I don’t think he should serve in the position of chief of police,” he said.

Collingdale’s town council says that it will meet again on Tuesday, Oct. 1.

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The district serves thousands of lunches a week, some hot and some cold, but soon, officials said a temporary plan will go into effect where students will be only offered several cold grab-and-go lunch options.

School officials said this situation is due to the district experiencing significant staffing shortages.

“Our intention was to be proactive so families know a plan was in place to pivot in staffing situations,” said Upper Dublin School District Superintendent Dr. Laurie Smith.

The problem came when families were alerted to this change, which did not go over well on social media. There was anger, frustration, and concern for kids who didn’t already get hot meals at home, and even outcry over the food service staff shortage.

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Parents who didn’t want to be named said they were frustrated with high tax dollars, adding that all kids should have the choice between hot and cold lunches.

The social media outcry prompted the district to send a new notification to families explaining the issue is short-term and in no way reflects the district’s ability to hire and retain staff.

School officials told parents that the cold item selection would be what students typically see in the cafeteria, which includes sandwiches and salads.

Smith says she apologizes for all the confusion and adds that they have posted jobs in hopes of filling significant holes in the food service staff.

Léelo en español aquí

The reason? skimming devices were found on self-checkout kiosks at the following Wawa stores, police said:

• 24930 John J Williams Highway, Millsboro, Delaware
• 30155 Veterans Way, Wawa, Rehoboth Beach, Delaware
• 35436 Wolfe Neck Rd, Wawa, Rehoboth, Delaware
• 17663 Dartmouth Dr, Lewes, Delaware

“Anyone who completed transactions at the locations listed below between August 31, 2024, and September 14, 2024, is suggested to review banking or credit card accounts for any fraudulent transactions,” police wrote on Monday, Sept. 16, 2024.

Police didn’t reveal any further details about how the devices were found or how many were installed at each store.

NBC10 reached out to Wawa for any comment, but had yet to receive a response.

State police offer several tips to keep yourself from becoming a victim of skimming thieves, including checking for a camera, any tampering and the card slot wiggling. Tap-to-pay is “the most secure method of payment,” police said.

Police asked that anyone with information contact Sergeant A. Morris at (302) 752-3806. Tips can also be submitted to Delaware Crime Stoppers and by messaging state police on Facebook.

Delaware State Police on Tuesday revealed details about the Sept. 16, 2024, crash along U.S. Route 13, south of Wilmington Airport and near Federal School Lane, in New Castle County.

85-year-old Wayne Proud, of New Castle, was operating a John Deere tractor on the right shoulder of northbound South Dupont Highway around 8:15 a.m. when he turned into “the school bus’s path of travel as it made a left turn from the shoulder and attempted to cross the northbound lanes of South Dupont Highway towards a crossover,” police wrote.

“As a result, the school bus struck the tractor, and the tractor’s operator was ejected,” police said.

The New Castle man driving the tractor later died at the hospital, police said. NBC10 newsgathering-partner WDEL originally reported on the fatality.

SkyForce10 was over the crash scene shortly before 9 a.m.

Léelo en español aquí.

You could see a yellow school bus — some sort a trail on the ground behind it — partially into the woods off one side of the roadway. On the other side of the grass median, you could see a stopped green tractor.

Several emergency vehicles were parked on the road and what appeared to be firefighters and police milled around.

Both the 55-year-old woman driving the school bus and a 56-year-old bus aide were transported by ambulance to a local hospital for what police called “non-life-threatening injuries.”

“The school bus was transporting 7 George Read Middle School students, all of whom were seat belted, and were not injured,” police said.

Later in the day, New Castle-based Colonial School District confirmed it was one of its buses involved in the wreck.

“The seven students onboard were evaluated by EMS crews at the scene and were cleared to be safely transported to George Read Middle School, and their families were contacted,” the school district said.

Troopers kept Route 13 closed for about three hours while they investigated.

Tips for driving near farm equipment on Delaware roads

Just last week, New Castle County Police put out tips for drivers as more farm equipment was expected on roads during harvest season: “As harvest season ramps up over the coming weeks, farm equipment will become more common on our roads, especially in parts of Delaware and nearby states.”

Tips for driving around tractors and other farm equipment includes being patient, maintaining a safe distance and watching for wide turns.

The Parker administration said that Hill brings more than three decades of expertise in strategic leadership and housing, property, fiscal, and program management.

Hill joins the Parker Administration after serving at Project HOME as a Senior Vice President of Supportive Housing Operation and earlier as Vice President, Property and Asset Management.

During her time at Project HOME, officials said Hill demonstrated fiscally responsible management of a $20 million annual budget and worked tirelessly to create strategies that would not only support the residents but also support the 200 staff members she managed.

“It is my privilege to appoint such an accomplished leader to head the Office of Homeless Services,” Parker said in a news release. “Cheryl’s deep experience developing and managing programs that help individuals and families — who are often at the lowest point in their lives — put a roof over their heads and thrive, will be an asset to the City of Philadelphia. She will lead OHS down a path of focused, improved, fiscally responsible delivery of service to Philadelphia’s most marginalized population.”

Early in her career, Hill was a director of compliance for the Atlanta Housing Authority and was responsible for the annual audits of more than 100 project-based voucher and public housing communities.

She also spent over a decade as an affordable housing consultant, leading diverse and complex projects such as developing a HUD-50058 data collection and reporting module, which helped prevent tenant evictions during the 2008 foreclosure crisis and emergency housing placement during Hurricane Katrina.  

In her new role as Executive Dictoror of OHS, officials said Hill is expected to utilize her skills and experience to move the city’s homeless service division forward.

Hill, whose first day in office was this Monday, is succeeding Interim Executive Director David Holloman, who led OHS since the departure of former Executive Director Liz Hersh back in November 2023.

“I am honored and excited to take on the role of Executive Director of the Office of Homeless Services,” said Hill. “This is a critical time for our city, and I look forward to collaborating with David Holloman, our partners, and the community to develop strategies that build on our strengths to address homelessness in innovative, compassionate, and impactful ways that benefit all Philadelphians.”

Nancy Saul has been leading the paper carriers in Havertown for four and a half decades.

The group consists of 21 kids and teens who have been hard at work pounding the pavement and delivering “The News and Press of Delaware County” across the town.

“It’s been meaningful and rewarding to see the kids learn so much,” Saul told NBC10.

Saul added, “They learn to manage money, maintain records, social skills, people skills, problem-solving, time management.”

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Dennis Donnely, one of Sauls’ carriers back in the 80s but now a police detective, says his time delivering newspapers was a good experience.

“It was good for my life experience. Now, just because that’s I deal with people all the time now and I feel like that helped me in my career,” said Donnely.

When Saul started the group, she said they had about 6,000 customers; now, they only have 480, which has motivated them to keep going.

“I’ll be here. As long as the paper. The paper kids are here,” Saul said.

As reported by NBC10’s newsgathering partner, KYW Newsradio, Damon Brantley Jr., 18 and Daquan Allen, 29, both of Norristown, along with Jerry Butler, 28, of Philadelphia were all found guilty by a jury for their roles in murdering Carter during a robbery that was set up with the help of the victim’s ex-girlfriend.

And, according to court documents, the crime happened because the killers knew Carter had won $3,000 while gambling.

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According to law enforcement officials, Carter’s ex-girlfriend, Katherine Emel, 29, of Plymouth Meeting — who pleaded guilty for her role in this crime back in June — helped set up the robbery that ended with Carter dead on a Norristown sidewalk.

Prosecutors claim, prior to Carter’s slaying, Emel placed a GPS tracker in the trunk of her car — the same vehicle Carter had driven the day he died.

Then, on the day of the killing, investigators allege, she communicated several times with Allen, “telling him that Carter has recently won $3,000 gambling and provided the location where Carter was going to be on the evening of Jan. 20, 2024.”

That day, as Carter left a friend’s home along Powell Street and was walking to his car, he was confronted by three men, all dressed in black.

Prosecutors said Carter — a father of a one-year-old daughter — was attacked, robbed and shot in the head.

Law enforcement officials said that an investigation into the incident uncovered surveillance video that showed that, after Carter was killed, Allen meet Emel at a business on N. Broad Street in Philadelphia.

At that meeting, prosecutors claim, Allen paid Emil $700.

Brantley, who prosecutors said pulled the trigger, was convicted of first-degree murder, while his co-conspirators, Butler and Allen were convicted of second-degree murder.

As noted by KYW Newsradio, Allen and Butler face mandatory life in prison.

Brantley was a juvenile at the time the crime occurred, and could be sentenced to serve between 35 years to life in prison when he is sentenced.

The suit, filed by MLB Players Inc. against Draftkings Inc. and Bet365 Group Ltd. in U.S. District Court in Philadelphia, claims the companies engaged in illegal “use of MLB player images on their sportsbook betting platforms” and of “player names and images in associated advertising, without a license.”

The suit claims unauthorized use of name or likeness under Pennsylvania law, common law misappropriation of publicity, common law misappropriation of identity, and unjust enrichment. MLB Players Inc. asked for an injunction and damages.

The companies did not immediately reply to emails seeking comment.

Police officers rushed to the 3800 block of North 13th Street — near West Butler Street — just after midnight on Sept. 17, 2024, Philadelphia Police Chief Inspector Scott Small said.

Léelo en español aquí.

As officers arrived, they saw an SUV speeding away from the shooting scene and they followed it to a nearby hospital.

“It turned out it was a 48-year-old shooting victim who was shot twice in the abdomen and he drove himself and a second shooting victim — a 41-year-old male — to Temple Hospital,” Small said.

The man who was shot twice in the abdomen was listed in stable condition at the hospital. The 41-year-old — later identified by police as North Philadelphia’s Gregory Heard — died shortly after arriving at the hospital.

Police began to investigate along 13th Street. Small said they found evidence that at least three shots were fired and that witnesses said they heard anywhere from three to five shots fired.

Some family members told investigators that the shooting victims “may be related and they were here on the block visiting other family members,” Small said.

Investigators hoped that numerous surveillance cameras on the block would help them track down the gunman. They called the motive for the shooting an argument.

Deadly shootings are down about 40% in Philadelphia at this point in the year compared to 2023, according to Philadelphia Police data. However, at least 188 people have still been killed.

A $20,000 reward for info leading to an arrest and conviction is being offered in the case, as happens in all homicides in Philadelphia. Anyone with info is urged to contact Philadelphia police.

Weeks after beer distributors, supermarkets and other businesses with retail liquor licenses were allowed to apply for permits to sell ready-to-drink cocktails, the booze is now for sale in Pennsylvania.

Starting on Monday, Sept. 16, 2024, licensed retailers can begin selling RTDCs — that’s how the Pennsylvania Liquor Control Board (a.k.a. the PLCB) describes the drinks with alcohol by volume ranging from 0.5% to 12.5%.

Act 86, which allowed for the RTDC sales was signed by Democratic Gov. Josh Shapiro back in July.

Under the bill, about 12,000 restaurants, bars, beer distributors, grocery stores and convenience stores that are already licensed to sell alcohol can get the special permit to sell the canned drinks. Under the previous law, only the state-owned wine and liquor stores were allowed to sell the canned drinks.

There are some stipulations on when the drinks can be sold.

“Restaurant, hotel, distributor and importing distributor licensees may apply for and obtain RTDC permits, which allow them to sell RTDC-to-go on Mondays through Saturdays until 11:00 p.m.,” the PLCB wrote. “Restaurant and hotel licensees with a Sunday sales permit may sell RTDC until 11:00 p.m. on Sundays.”

The PLCB began accepting RTDC sales applications on Aug. 27, 2024. Each permit costs $2,500 per establishment and there will be an annual renewal fee of 2% of the RTDCs sold to be consumed elsewhere.

Ready-to-drink canned cocktails have boomed in popularity in recent years. Legislative analysts project the growing sales will bring in about $35 million a year in state revenue by the fiscal year of 2028-2029.

Giant announced that it would be selling ready-to-drink cocktails at nearly all of its Giant and Martin’s stores with operating beer and wine departments in the state.

“Our stores have been a destination for beer and wine since 2011 and 2016, respectively, and we have heard from our customers about the convenience of being able to grab ready-to-drink cocktails while grocery shopping too,” Rebecca Lupfer, senior vice president and chief merchant, The GIANT Company, said in a statement the company released.

Shapiro called the boozy drink sales a win.

“Thanks to our bipartisan budget, you will soon be able to go get ready-to-drink cocktails – some made right here in Pennsylvania – at places like grocery stores and gas stations,” Shapiro said in an August news release. “…This is what real freedom looks like, and we did it in a way that protects taxpayers and supports our state workers.”

Elaine DePrince of Cherry Hill, New Jersey, died on Sept. 11, 2024, during a routine procedure in preparation for a surgery, according to family spokesperson Jessica Volinski. Her death occurred the day after her adopted daughter Michaela died at the age of 29.

“Michaela died before Elaine and Elaine did not know of Michaela’s passing at the time of her procedure. As unbelievable as it may seem, the two deaths were completely unrelated,” Volinski wrote. “The only way we can make sense of the senseless is that Elaine, who had already lost three children many years ago, was by the grace of God spared the pain of experiencing the loss of a fourth child.”

While Michaela’s death was publicly announced on Friday, Sept. 13, 2024, Volinski stated that she passed away on Sept. 10, 2024. The family has not released a cause of death.

“What the family is going through right now is truly unimaginably painful,” Volinski wrote. “Grieving two family members who died within a 24 hour period is tragic and devastating. We continue to ask for privacy and appreciate you directing anyone sharing incorrect information and speculation to this post.”

The life of Michaela DePrince

Michaela DePrince was born Mabinty Bangura in Sierra Leone, Africa. After her father was killed by rebels and her mother died from disease and starvation, she was dropped off at an orphanage in Sierra Leone at the age of 3. While at the orphanage, DePrince spotted an image from a magazine that showed an American ballet dancer.

“All I remember is she looked really, really happy,” Michaela told The Associated Press back in 2012. DePrince said she wished “to become this exact person.”

Michaela also dealt with malnourishment, mistreatment and the skin disorder vitiligo.

“I lost both my parents, so I was there (the orphanage) for about a year and I wasn’t treated very well because I had vitiligo,” she told The Associated Press back in 2012. “We were ranked as numbers and number 27 was the least favorite and that was my number, so I got the least amount of food, the least amount of clothes and what not.”

Michaela told The Associated Press that she then walked shoeless for miles to reach a refugee camp after receiving word that her orphanage would be bombed. She, along with two other girls, were then adopted by Elaine DePrince and her husband, both of Cherry Hill, New Jersey, at the age of 4.

“They came to me sick and traumatized by the war,” Elaine DePrince told The Associated Press in 2012. “Michaela arrived with the worst case of tonsillitis, fever, mononucleosis and joints that were swollen.”

Michaela said her time in the orphanage impacted her for years. However, remembering how inspired she was by the ballerina image from the magazine, she soon found comfort and inspiration through dance.

Michaela began training in various competitions before attending the Rock School for Dance Education, a prestigious ballet school located in Philadelphia.

“I’m a little bit in disbelief. I have not really processed the enormity of the loss, not even to myself, but the entire field of classical ballet and certainly to the Rock School,” Director of the Rock School Peter Stark told NBC10. “Michaela’s story is really a remarkable tale of human perseverance and you almost have to wonder if there wasn’t divine intervention.”

During her dance journey, Michaela said she experienced racial discrimination.

“When I was 8 years old this teacher said, ‘You know, we don’t put a lot of effort into the Black ballerinas because they all end up getting fat and having big boobs,’” Michaela told NBC News back in 2017.

Michaela was undeterred however and continued to rise in the world of ballet. At the age of 17 she was featured in a documentary film and performed on the TV series “Dancing With the Stars.” She graduated from high school and the American Ballet Theatre’s Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis School and worked at Dance Theatre of Harlem where she was the youngest principal dancer in the theatre’s history.

She also performed in her first professional full ballet back in July 2012 in South Africa.

In 2013, she joined the junior company of the Dutch National Ballet in Amsterdam and joined the Dutch National Ballet as a student in 2014. She continued to rise through the ranks and break new ground while inspiring a generation of Black and brown girls.

Her celebrity continued to grow when she performed in Beyoncé’s 2016 musical film “Lemonade.” Pop superstar Madonna was also in talks to direct a biopic based on DePrince’s memoir back in 2018.

Michaela later joined the Boston Ballet in 2021 as a second soloist and danced the leading role in the 2021 ballet film “Coppelia.”

In addition to dance, DePrince was also a humanitarian who advocated for children impacted by conflict and violence. She also served as the ambassador for War Child Holland, an independent non-governmental organization that works to ensure children have access to protection, education and psychosocial support.

“The survival of classical ballet is dependent on diversification. It’s dancers like Michaela DePrince that are literally paving the path forward for the continuation of this artform,” Stark said. “We cannot survive without trailblazers and courageous women like Michaela and her loss is a devastating blow.”

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On Sep. 16, 2019, Noema Alavez was sitting in her car scratching off a lottery ticket while her two kids played at a nearby playground in Bridgeton, New Jersey. A few minutes later she went to check on them. She then realized her 5-year-old daughter Dulce María Alavez was gone. Some people on the basketball court next to the playground told Noema that Dulce ran behind some sheds at the same time two men were walking by and that perhaps one of those men took her. Noema then called 911. 

A police search ensued — with help from state and federal authorities. Despite what the girls on the basketball court said, police stated they did not have evidence of an abduction—a requirement for an Amber Alert. 

“Through the early morning, we were still hoping to find the child was maybe in the brush or had gotten tangled up,” the Bridgeton Police Chief said. 

As the hours ticked by, Noema begged officials for an Amber Alert. Then, 29 hours after police arrived on scene, an Amber Alert was issued, describing a suspect and the car Dulce was believed to be taken in. But without cameras in the park, police couldn’t corroborate the witness statements that led to the Amber Alert. 

The disappearance of Dulce María Alavez

Dulce Maria Alavez Jun 14, 2023

Nonprofit group joins search for missing NJ girl Dulce María Alavez

New Jersey Apr 24, 2021

‘I Miss Her So Much': Family Marks 7th Birthday of Missing Girl Dulce María

Police have continued to investigate tips—going across the country and to Mexico. Local law enforcement officials have also kept a close eye on Dulce’s family—executing a search warrant at her home years after she went missing. But to this day, Dulce remains missing.

In September 2023, four years after Dulce’s disappearance, NBC10 investigative reporter Claudia Vargas took a fresh look at the case. She retraced Dulce’s last known steps and spoke with the girl’s family and case investigators. 

“Somebody Knows Something: The Disappearance of Dulce” premiered Friday, Sept. 15, 2023, on NBC10 and the NBC10 streaming channels. In the days leading up to the special, NBC10 aired the following stories: 

The Latest on the search for Dulce María Alavez

Since 5-year-old Dulce María Alavez went missing from Bridgeton City Park in 2019, law enforcement officials have been following up on hundreds of tips — from tracking down red cars to checking out psychic readings. Police have also traveled across the country and to Mexico in search of answers to Dulce’s disappearance. But Dulce has yet to be found. And last year, police executed a search warrant at Dulce’s family’s home — indicating that police still believe her family may know more than what they are letting on. 

Security at the park where Dulce went missing

The playground at Bridgeton City Park was not equipped with surveillance cameras when Dulce María Alavez went missing in September 2019. And so, police did not have video capturing what happened to the little girl that led to her disappearance. Based on the witness accounts of a young child and someone older, Dulce was taken by a Hispanic man who police have yet to track down. Since then, Dulce’s mom has been asking city officials to install security cameras at the playground. In late 2020, the city agreed to install several surveillance cameras throughout the park. We tested some of the cameras to see just what it captures. 

What would Dulce look like today?

Dulce María Alavez went missing from the Bridgeton City Park in Bridgeton, NJ, when she was 5-years-old and just starting Kindergarten. Presuming she is alive, her face most likely changed as she got older. At the two-year mark of her disappearance, the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC) issued an age-progression composite of what they thought Dulce would look like at 7-years-old. The hope is that someone in the public will recognize her. The forensic artist who drew it used family pictures of Dulce to get a feel for the girl’s feature traits. But Dulce’s family did not think the composite looked anything like Dulce. Now, four years after her disappearance, a forensic artist at NCMEC has created a new rendering and officials released it on Thursday, Sept. 14.

Delay in the Amber Alert

When Noema Alavez called 911 to report her daughter, Dulce, missing, she told police that some people on the basketball court said they saw her daughter running behind some sheds at the same time as two men were walking by. Noema shared on the line that the girls at the court said one of the men may have taken her. When police arrived on scene, they intensely searched the woods, expecting to find her lost in there. At the same time, because Dulce was under the age of 13, the Cumberland County Prosecutor’s Office activated its Child Abduction Response Team. But even through the next morning, the Bridgeton Police chief said there was no evidence of an abduction. Still, Dulce’s mom asked police to issue an Amber Alert. It wasn’t until 29 hours after police arrived on scene that New Jersey State Police issued an Amber Alert detailing Dulce’s suspected abduction and abductor. Questions remain if the delay hindered the investigation.

Vigil brings awareness for Dulce

Dulce’s family gathered at the park in Bridgeton, New Jersey, on Monday, Sept. 16 for a vigil to bring awareness to the missing girl. They were joined by the mayor, police chief and community members who held yellow balloons. Bridgeton Mayor Albert Kelly led a prayer asking for help as the search continues.

How to share tips

More than 100 eateries will be offering discounted menus from Sunday, Sept. 8 through Saturday, Sept. 21.

Three-course, prix-fixe dinners can be enjoyed for just $40 or $60, and two-course lunches for $20. Dinner will be served indoors or outdoors, if available, and at some locations, a takeout option will be offered.

“Center City continues to be the region’s premier destination for shopping, entertainment, and most notably, dining. Restaurant Week helps to spotlight the chefs and restaurateurs who work tirelessly to uphold that reputation and gives thousands of people the opportunity to try their best dishes at a discounted rate,” Vice President of Marketing and Communications for Center City District Michelle Shannon said in a news release. “We hope that Restaurant Week inspires continued patronage and support of our restaurants as they are a vital part of our downtown economic engine.”

The current list of Center City Restaurant Week participants includes (*$60 premium menu):

Thinking about booking a table? Event organizers say reservations are highly encouraged and can be made through OpenTable.

If you are traveling by car to your reservation, discounted parking for $10 or less will be available every night of restaurant week from 4:45 p.m. through 1 a.m.

Visit ccdrestaurantweek.com to find the closest garage to your dining destination.

“Center City District Restaurant Week is more than just a prix-fixe dining promotion,” said Prema Katari Gupta, President and CEO of Center City District. “It is a reminder of the incredible culinary talents found only in Center City. I want to thank every chef, line cook, busser, server, dishwasher, hostess and bartender for their roles in making Restaurant Week an experience that people from around the region look forward to every year.”

Philadelphia voters on Tuesday will fill two vacant state House seats in special elections, and in both cases a Democratic candidate is the only person on the ballot.

Keith Harris is seeking to replace Rep. Donna Bullock, while Andre Carroll is in line to succeed Rep. Stephen Kinsey. Bullock and Kinsey both resigned in mid-July. Bullock took a job with Project HOME, a nonprofit that works to address homelessness, while Kinsey, who had not been planning to run for reelection, moved up his departure date and took another job.

Neither Harris nor Carroll has an opponent in the Nov. 5 general election, where they are seeking full two-year terms.

Harris, 63, is a Democratic ward leader and community activist who has worked to clean up graffiti in Philadelphia. The district is in the northern area of the city.

Carroll, 33, has worked in city and state government. The northwest Philadelphia district has overwhelmingly Democratic voter registration and is older and less affluent than the state as a whole.

The House has a 102-101 Democratic majority, counting the Bullock and Kinsey seats.

Polls are open from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. Click here to find your polling place.

Shaun Coleman, 23, Salahudin Reddy, 37, Hanif Tucker, 31, and Rashan Clark-Reddy, 26, all of Philadelphia, are charged with numerous offenses in connection to at least nine burglaries, the New Jersey Office of the Attorney General announced on Monday, Sept. 16.

During the two-month “Operation Beef Bandit,” New Jersey State Police investigated break-ins at parked and often occupied trailers at NJ Turnpike service areas in which high-valued goods — including meat, alcohol and seafood — were stolen.

The suspects were also connected to similar thefts over the past three years across the tri-state area in which merchandise worth millions of dollars was stolen, according to officials.

On Sept. 13, 2024, around 1:25 a.m., New Jersey State Police spotted two vehicles enter the Molly Pitcher Service Area on the NJ Turnpike. They then spotted four suspects stealing boxes of meat from a parked and occupied truck, investigators said.

The responding troopers arrested one of the men, later identified as Hanif Tucker, officials said. A second suspect, Shaun Coleman, tried to run away on foot but was captured shortly after, according to investigators.

The other two suspects, Salahudin Reddy and Rashan Clark-Reddy, tried to flee in a stolen vehicle and intentionally crashed into an occupied and unmarked police car, officials said. They were then captured after damaging two marked state police vehicles during a brief chase, officials said.

Three state troopers suffered minor injuries during the arrests. Only one of the troopers was hospitalized and later released.

Coleman is charged with receiving stolen property, possession of burglary tools, criminal mischief and conspiracy to commit cargo theft.

Reddy is charged with receiving stolen property, possession of a stolen vehicle, conspiracy to commit cargo theft, possession of burglary tools, burglary, conspiracy to commit burglary, resisting by flight and criminal mischief.

Clark-Reddy is charged with eluding, receiving stolen property, possession of a stolen vehicle, criminal mischief, possession of burglary tools, burglary, conspiracy to commit burglary, conspiracy to commit cargo theft and aggravated assault on a law enforcement officer.

Tucker is charged with receiving stolen property, burglary, conspiracy to commit burglary, criminal mischief, conspiracy to commit cargo theft and possession of burglary tools.

All four men are lodged in Middlesex County Jail pending a bail detention hearing. While they are all in custody, police continue to investigate.

Anyone with information on the cargo thefts or similar thefts should call the New Jersey State Police Troop “D” Moorestown Station Detective Bureau at (732) 522-4295, extension 3226. Tips can be anonymous.

You don’t have to run into a pillar to figure out how to get to the game for cheap.

The Eagles take on the Atlanta Falcons at Lincoln Financial Field for the home opener on Monday, Sept. 16, 2024. Here’s your guide to getting down to the stadium complex for the nationally-televised game.

SEPTA adds extra service for Philadelphia Eagles home games

“SEPTA is ready for the start of the 2024 Eagles season with extra Broad Street Line [B] and Regional Rail service set for Monday’s home opener against the Atlanta Falcons,” the transit agency said.

Basically, SEPTA will be running its regularly scheduled trains — every 8 minutes or less — on the Broad Street Line leading up to the 8:15 p.m. kickoff.

SEPTA will run 10 extra express trains departing Fern Rock Station every 10 minutes from 6:05 p.m. to 7:35 p.m.

Lincoln Financial Field has a handy guide on its website laying out how to take the Broad Street Line to the game, regardless of whether fans are in Philly, the suburbs or New Jersey, but SEPTA broke it down this way:

“Eagles fans can connect with the Broad Street Line from dozens of bus routes, and there is a free transfer from the Market-Frankford Line [L] and City Trolley [T] routes at 15th Street/City Hall. The Broad Street Line is also just a short walk from Regional Rail stations in Center City and easily accessible from the PATCO High Speed Line for fans from south Jersey.”

to increase the access to the subway to and from the game, SEPTA is adding additional trains on the Warminster and Paoli/Thorndale lines (Click here for that schedule).

However, as you celebrate the Birds’ win, be sure not to hang out too long before you head to the subway.

“SEPTA strongly urges riders to go directly to NRG Station after the game so they can catch the Broad Street Line and connecting services,” SEPTA said.

A subway line ride costs $2 each way with SEPTA Key, Key Tix via SEPTA App and contactless payment, and $2.50 for a Quick Trip card or cash.

How much does it cost to park at Eagles games at Lincoln Financial Field?

Parking in lots at the Linc during the 2024 NFL season costs $45 for cars and $90 for oversized vehicles like RVs and buses, according to the stadium’s website.

You can always check SpotHero to see if you can find a place to park in the area around the stadium complex.