Pennsylvania
Free air conditioners available again in Pa. through utility assistance program
A need for cooling bill assistance
Even when a household has access to an air conditioner, they may not be able to afford to run it.
“If you’re going to burn an air conditioner, it’s going to make your bill go up,” said Victoria Miles-Chambliss, secretary and treasurer of the Kingsessing-based nonprofit Empowered CDC, who helped people try to navigate the cooling program last summer. “It’s like, I either sweat to death or I get air conditioning and don’t have enough money to … get medication or this, that and the other.”
Some states, including Delaware, allow LIHEAP money to be used for summer electricity bills. But so far, Pennsylvania’s LIHEAP cooling pilot program only covers air conditioning units or A/C system repairs.
A survey of over 100 residents of low-income neighborhoods in Philly by the faith-based nonprofit Esperanza and Community Legal Services last year found that just 6% of respondents lacked an air conditioner in their homes. But 76% struggled to afford their energy bills in the summer.
“You can have the air conditioner, but if you can’t afford it, then it’s not going to really help you when it’s really hot,” said Christina Gareis, a former community public health coordinator at Esperanza who co-authored the report.
A whopping 89% of survey respondents said they limit their use of air conditioning to keep costs down.
“Most respondents are limiting A/C use so they don’t get a shutoff notice,” said Ángel Ortiz-Siberón, vice president of research & strategic initiatives at Esperanza. “Yet many of our respondents still dealt with shut off notices during the summer.”
Over the last few years, tens of thousands of PECO customers have had their electricity shut off for nonpayment each summer, excluding 2020, when terminations were paused because of the pandemic.
Nationwide, households of color experience energy insecurity at higher rates than white households. Nearly all of the respondents to Esperanza’s survey identified as either African American or Hispanic/Latinx. Many live in ZIP codes in North and West Philly that were at least partially redlined.
“People should be able to be cool in their own homes, as opposed to having to leave their homes for a cooling center on high heat days,” Dr. Jamile Tellez Lieberman, senior vice president of community engagement, research and health equity at Esperanza, wrote in an email. “Even beyond A/Cs, it’s a question of equity and justice, colored by race.”
Based on input from residents, Community Legal Services and Esperanza recommended Pennsylvania expand LIHEAP bill assistance year-round to cover both heating and cooling by allocating state money to supplement federal funding.
“The number one barrier [to cooling] is that there’s not grant assistance available in the summer to the extent that there is assistance available in the winter,” said Joline Price, a supervising attorney in the energy unit at Community Legal Services. “We would want people to be able to get grants both for heating and cooling, not to be choosing between the two.”
A spokesperson for the Pennsylvania Department of Human Services, which administers LIHEAP bill assistance, said the agency is open to exploring a cooling program in the future.
“We recognize that sweltering summer months can pose a threat to the health of vulnerable Pennsylvanians,” spokesperson Natalie Scott wrote in an email.
But without additional funding, Pennsylvania would need to take money away from the traditional heating bill assistance program to pay for cooling bill assistance, Scott said. DHS has not yet studied the demand and costs associated with running LIHEAP bill assistance year-round but plans to do so in the future.
“We plan to work in partnership with our stakeholders and advocates to analyze the demand and cost of these programs so we can balance these needs and serve the vulnerable citizens of the commonwealth throughout the year,” Scott wrote. “DHS is in support of additional funding or the expansion of LIHEAP to better serve Pennsylvanians during the summer heat.”
Pennsylvania
$150 BetMGM Pennsylvania Bonus Code CUSE150 extended into MI for Penn State vs. Michigan
The new BetMGM bonus code CUSE150 is the perfect bonus for Pennsylvania and Michigan sports fans this Thursday, February 5, 2026—delivering a simple, high-value path to claim $150 in bonus bets or a massive $1,550 total value safety net for tonight’s conference clash.
By signing up with the BetMGM bonus code “CUSE150” and winning a $10 bet on tonight’s stacked basketball slate—including Penn State vs. Michigan—you’ll unlock bonus bets ready for live betting, player props, and future wagers.
BetMGM Bonus Code CUSE150 Details for Thursday, Feb. 5, 2026:
Activating this welcome offer in the Keystone State and the Great Lakes State is straightforward. Here’s how it works:
- Register for a new BetMGM Sportsbook account in Pennsylvania or Michigan using bonus code CUSE150.
- Deposit at least $10 into your new account.
- Place a $10 wager on tonight’s Penn State vs. Michigan game or any eligible sports market.
- In PA and MI: If your first $10 bet wins, you’ll receive $150 in bonus bets instantly.
- Bonus Flexibility: Bonus bets are valid for seven days and can be used on any future betting markets.
Featured NCAAB Matchup: Penn State vs. Michigan
The Nittany Lions head to Ann Arbor to face the Wolverines tonight at the Crisler Center. Michigan enters as a massive home favorite as they look to dominate this Big Ten matchup.
BetMGM Betting Odds in MI and PA:
- Spread: Michigan -25.5 | Penn State +25.5
- Total: Over 161.5 | Under 161.5
- Moneyline: Michigan -10000 | Penn State +3000
Key Storylines:
- David vs. Goliath: The sportsbooks are predicting a blowout at the Crisler Center, with Michigan favored by over 25 points.
- Big Ten Action: Fans in both Pennsylvania and Michigan can catch the game with a tip-off scheduled for 6:30 p.m. ET.
Expanded BetMGM Bonuses for February 2026:
$1,500 + $50 First Bet Offer
In states where the “Bet $10, Get $150” offer doesn’t apply (such as NY, MO, and OH), BetMGM bonus code CUSEMGM provides up to $1,500 in bonus bets if your first wager loses. Additionally, this exclusive deal now includes a $50 bonus in rewards points issued as soon as you finalize your account, regardless of your first bet’s outcome.
Odds Boost Tokens and Promotions:
- NBA No Sweat Token: Place an NBA bet, apply this token, and get your stake back in bonus bets if it doesn’t hit.
- Boost Pack for Seahawks vs. Patriots: Odds Boost, SGP Boost, Anytime TD Boost, or the “No Sweat Token” to get your stake back in bonus bets if it does not win.
- Refer A Friend: Earn a $100 bonus for both you and a friend when they sign up and meet the wagering requirements.
Nevada Sportsbook Offer
Nevada users who register in person at a BetMGM retail location can access:
- Up to $250 in bonus bets if your first in-person sportsbook wager loses.
BetMGM Bonus Code Terms and Conditions:
| Term | Details, February 2026 |
|---|---|
| Eligibility | New users only, 21+ and located in Pennsylvania. |
| Min. Deposit | $10 or more required to qualify. |
| Qualifying Wager | Your very first real-money bet of $10+. |
| Bonus Format | $150 in PA, MI, NJ (if you win) OR up to $1,500 back (if you lose) + $50 bonus. |
| Expiration | All bonus bets expire 7 days after being issued. |
Conclusion: Why Use BetMGM Bonus Code CUSE150 Today?
For Pennsylvania and Michigan bettors, the BetMGM bonus code CUSE150 provides the ultimate advantage. Whether you are backing Michigan to cover the massive spread at home or eyeing a historic upset from Penn State, this offer ensures you start your week with maximum value. By combining a low-risk $10 “Bet & Get” or a massive $1,500 safety net with exclusive rewards, BetMGM stands out as the premier destination for tonight’s college basketball action.
Sign up now with BetMGM bonus code CUSE150 to secure your rewards before tonight’s 6:30 p.m. ET tip-off at the Crisler Center.
GAMBLING PROBLEM? CALL 1-800-GAMBLER (AVAILABLE IN THE US).CALL 877-8-HOPENY OR TEXT HOPENY (467369) (NY). CALL 1-800-327-5050 (MA).CALL 1-800-NEXT-STEP (AZ), 1-800-BETS-OFF (IA), 1-800-981-0023 (PR).
If you or a loved one has questions or needs to talk to a professional about gambling, call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit 1800gambler.net for more information.
If you purchase a product or register for an account through a link on our site, we may receive compensation. By using this site, you consent to our User Agreement and agree that your clicks, interactions, and personal information may be collected, recorded, and/or stored by us and social media and other third-party partners in accordance with our Privacy Policy.
DICKSON CITY, Pa. — Emergency crews battled a blaze and evacuated patients from a hospital Wednesday night in Pennsylvania as fire engulfed part of the facility, according to officials.
All patients, staff and visitors were safely evacuated from Lehigh Valley Hospital in Dickson City, according to a hospital spokesperson. Emergency responders continued to work at the scene early Thursday.
Gov. Josh Shapiro said on the social platform X that the state’s police, emergency management agency and health department had responded to the fire.
“Thank you to every first responder running toward danger to help their fellow Pennsylvanians,” he said. “Lori and I are praying for the staff, patients, their families, and the entire community tonight.”
In video and photos posted online, flames can be seen shooting out from the top of what appears to be the hospital’s Orthopedic Institute.
It was not immediately clear what had caused the fire in Dickson City, which is about 6 miles (10 kilometers) north of Scranton.
“Deep gratitude goes to the first responders and hospital teams whose swift, professional actions ensured the safety and well-being of everyone involved,” U.S. Rep. Rob Bresnahan Jr., whose district includes the city, posted on X.
Copyright © 2026 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.
Viral video that appears to show Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents pulling two men from a vehicle in Chester County sparked a protest and responses from local officials.
Léelo en español aquí
A person who posted the clip to social media said the incident occurred on Tuesday, Feb. 3, 2026, outside the Foodery on Bridge Street in Phoenixville. The video shows federal agents opening up a vehicle and pulling two men from inside as witnesses yell at them.
“Dirt bags,” one woman screams at the agents. “Get a real job!”
A man is then repeatedly heard yelling “back up” to the witnesses as the camera moves away from the vehicle. The camera then shows the ICE agents surrounding two men on the ground as a woman once again calls the federal officers “dirt bags” and tells them to show their faces.
Aiden Donovan, one of the witnesses, told NBC10 he thought the agents came from the district court building from across the street.
“It was a lot,” Donovan said. “I mean they were trying to open the door, knowing that didn’t work, they brought the batons out and just smashed the window in and ripped the glass out, pulled them out.”
Another video obtained by NBC10 shows the agents taking the two men into custody.
“We tried to tell them to leave,” Donovan said. “We tried to say, ‘This is private property. You can’t be here. Like especially you’re not going to be even coming into the store. You have no reason to be here.’ We called the cops. The cops said, ‘They are fully allowed to do what they want. They’re federal agents.’”
In a statement, Phoenixville Mayor Peter Urscheler explained why local law enforcement couldn’t intervene.
“Immigration enforcement is a federal responsibility and local police departments, including Phoenixville’s, are not required to enforce federal immigration laws unless they have a formal agreement to do so,” Urscheler wrote. “The Phoenixville Borough Police Department has never had such an agreement.”
NBC10 sent follow-up questions to the mayor’s office. We have not yet received a response.
Marian Moskowitz of the Chester County Board of Commissioners also released a statement on the video.
“We are seeing enforcement efforts that raise serious concerns about due process, proportionality, and humane treatment,” Moskowitz wrote. ”I strongly believe there must be meaningful oversight of ICE’s activities, and I hope Pennsylvania can find a way to ensure accountability and the protection of basic civil rights.”
NBC10 also reached out to the Chester County District Attorney’s Office. A spokesperson said they had no comment.
The video led to a protest in Phoenixville on Wednesday.
“This wasn’t the first time that ICE has been to Phoenixville and it wasn’t the first time that they’ve taken people,” one protester said.
Federal officials have not revealed details on what led to the incident or the identities of the men who were taken into custody.
Ex-con KOs state police K-9 in Detroit street brawl, feds allege
Teen charged with murder in SF triple shooting that left girl, 15 dead
Ownership of The National skyscraper reverts to lender in foreclosure sale
Miami Legend Clinton Portis built quite a resume coaching Running Backs at Delaware State, and with the position wide open at The U could throw his name in the hat
Boston Police Blotter: East Boston drug bust, loaded gun seized in Dorchester
Florida High School Football Rankings: Top 25 teams – Oct. 21
Cleary's 21 help Le Moyne down Central Connecticut State 69-64 in OT
How old is Bo Nix? What to know about Oregon quarterback ahead of 2024 NFL Draft
99th annual Pony Swim held in Virginia
Indiana Members Credit Union announced as new anchor tenant at Bottleworks District
Video: Investigators Say Doorbell Camera Was Disconnected Before Nancy Guthrie’s Kidnapping
White House says murder rate plummeted to lowest level since 1900 under Trump administration
Council of Europe chief calls for political and financial backing of Ukraine Special Tribunal
Republicans pan Democrats’ demands for ICE reform in DHS funding, with little time to reach deal
LIVE: White House press briefing
-
Indiana4 days ago13-year-old rider dies following incident at northwest Indiana BMX park
-
Massachusetts5 days agoTV star fisherman, crew all presumed dead after boat sinks off Massachusetts coast
-
Tennessee6 days agoUPDATE: Ohio woman charged in shooting death of West TN deputy
-
Movie Reviews1 week agoVikram Prabhu’s Sirai Telugu Dubbed OTT Movie Review and Rating
-
Indiana4 days ago13-year-old boy dies in BMX accident, officials, Steel Wheels BMX says
-
Politics1 week agoVirginia Democrats seek dozens of new tax hikes, including on dog walking and dry cleaning
-
Austin, TX7 days ago
TEA is on board with almost all of Austin ISD’s turnaround plans
-
Texas5 days agoLive results: Texas state Senate runoff
