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

Parents are still looking for answers (and reassurances) following an attack involving a Stanley cup that took place at a middle school last month. The state is thinking about banning non-competes for doctors and nurses. Overdose deaths have declined. Finally, Pennsylvania’s favorite book is a read the state can’t refuse.

A whistleblower has come out with some questions surrounding a specialized plane that was used to provide information about the chemicals released into the air last year following the Norfolk Southern train derailment in East Palestine. Pittsburgh’s controller is looking into some payments that were made to a former city employee. A new dashboard is tracking ticks and Lyme disease around the state. Plus, there’s a new Rutter’s coming to town.

An investment firm is under an FBI probe. The state’s Rural Revitalization Commission could cost taxpayers $130,000. Wally Gator is still missing. And someone was busted for trying to illegally import dead butterflies.

Juveniles went on a “poaching spree” in Cambria County. Peco customers are being “aggressively” targeted by scammers. A commencement presenter butchered students’ names. Lastly, if you ever wanted to own something from a prison (well, to each his own), now’s your chance.

The state is looking to criminalize the misuse of xylazine, a.k.a. “tranq.” The Boy Scouts have dropped the “Boys” and now they’re just “Scouting America.” Pennsylvania is posed to become the next state to ban handheld cellphones while driving. Finally, this Phillies fan cheered so hard, she lost her wedding band.

People in locations surrounding Philadelphia are worried about where the homeless pushed out of Kensington will go. One of the plans to address Pittsburgh’s deer problem involves sharpshooters. Broad Street Market has confirmed an opening date for its temporary tent. Lastly, this “selfie” is actually a “monumental event.”

The crackdown on the open-air drug market in Philadelphia’s Kensington neighborhood is underway. Hikers found dog treats filled with fish hooks. A financial aid agency has been fined nearly $2 million for mishandling requests. And Rocky steps out of the ring for a bit of maintenance.

Officials have confirmed that there’s no evidence of the avian flu being in Pennsylvania. The state has some of the highest number of ATV and UTV accidents in the country. The battle with spotted lanternflies continues. And a droll state budget hearing took an out-of-this-world turn.

A middle school didn’t inform a mother of her child’s use of different pronouns, and now, that mother is suing. The at-large school board election of one district has drawn the attention of the DOJ. A beloved penguin has passed away. Also, is physical media making a comeback?

A COVID contact tracing firm used by Pennsylvania will have to pay millions in a cybersecurity settlement. A meat seller based in the state has recalled ground beef due to possible contamination. Year-round school could become a reality for Philadelphia students. Finally, Pennsylvania’s favorite Pop-Tart flavor.