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

One could argue that Thanksgiving is all about the side dishes.

A county in Pennsylvania has one of the highest rates of human trafficking in the country. The FBI is now involved in the investigation of a bank robbery. Mayor Ed Gainey has proposed Pittsburgh’s 2025 budget proposal. Plus, Pennsylvania’s one of the most charitable states around.

People across the country started drinking more during the pandemic and haven’t stopped. SEPTA might go into a “death spiral.” The largest solar project developed by a Pennsylvanian utility is underway. Lastly, this is the state’s favorite Thanksgiving dish.

About 50 underage students were the victim of AI-generated nude photos. Pennsylvania’s largest cyber charter school is being scrutinized for the way it spends funds. A package manufacturer is coming to Lebanon County. Finally, Hershey gets sour.

The FDA is looking to pull a common ingredient used in popular cold medicines from the market. Pennsylvania’s population grew last year. A historic ship will set sail from Philadelphia this week. Also, do you like one of the “world’s worst beers?”

Norfolk Southern tells employees they shouldn’t spend more than a minute inspecting railcars, although the company claims this is simply the industry standard. Delaware ports are trying to expand, and those in Philadelphia aren’t happy about it. The Department of Military and Veteran Affairs is now accepting grant applications for services and programs that benefit veterans. Lastly, a Good Samaritan wrestled a dirt bike rider who had hit a cop into apprehension.

13 people were charged for their roles in trafficking oxycodone. The state Department of Conservation and Natural Resources has banned campfires at state parks and forests as the drought persists. Two Pennsylvania cities are supposedly amongst the top 10 “most livable.” And keep it punny.

Over 100 inmates were released from jails as a result of staffing shortages. SEPTA workers might strike as soon as this Friday. A Pennsylvania-based cheesemaker has voluntarily recalled several of its products. Finally, a fast food company is (boldly) expanding into Philadelphia after poking fun of the beloved Philly cheesesteak.

A fire broke out on Blue Mountain in Northampton County. Unemployment claims went up last week. A closing facility will periodically lay off workers through next year. Lastly, they said it couldn’t be done, but the Philly Portal has made it through the week.

Pennsylvanians might get the chance to glimpse a meteor shower that’s “rich in fireballs” this month.