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Commuters Battle the Bitter Cold

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It is bitter cold outside Thursday, especially for people waiting for the train or bus. SEPTA warned riders not to stay outside longer than necessary, and to prepare for possible delays due to weather conditions.



Photo Credit: NBC10

Arrest Made in Center City Groping Spree

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Police have arrested a man accused of going on a groping spree involving three teenage girls, a preteen and a 30-year-old woman within the span of less than two hours in Center City.

Erich Cunningham, 58, is charged with unlawful contact with a child, indecent assault, simple assault and harassment, the Philadelphia Police Department announced. Police arrested him Wednesday night on the 1500 block of John F. Kennedy Boulevard after spotting him at the bottom of an escalator on the subway, an eerily similar location to where he allegedly groped at least one of the girls.

Cunningham, who police say is homeless, is accused of going on a groping spree that began Tuesday morning when he grabbed the hand of a 16-year-old girl waiting on a train platform of the SEPTA Walnut-Locust station, the PPD said. The youngest of the victims is 12 years old, the department said.

In the first case, Cunningham tried to force his 16-year-old victim to inappropriately touch him, and when she pulled away he groped her before she was able to escape. That incident happened around 6:45 a.m. Just 15 minutes later, police say the man brushed up against a 30-year-old woman at the Suburban Station concourse.

He then made his way to the 1600 block of Arch Street, where he started talking to a 12-year-old girl and blocked her path, the PPD said. She managed to run and as she escaped Cunningham yelled for her to pull her pants down, according to the department.

Half an hour later, the PPD said, Cunningham once again turned his sights to a teenage girl, this time a 15-year-old standing at the intersection of 16th and Vine streets. He groped her and then walked away.

Around 8:33 a.m., Cunningham groped another 16-year-old girl as she stood at the intersection of Broad and Fairmount streets, the PPD said. He ran away north on Broad Street and then west on Brown Street.

The latest series of assaults follow four groping cases reported near the University of Pennsylvania over the weekend. In those cases, the four women were groped within a four-hour window.



Photo Credit: Philadelphia Police Department

'Quiet Killer': Carbon Monoxide Safety Tips

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The blast of polar air that enveloped much of the Midwest on Wednesday spread into the Northeast Thursday, putting 120 million people across 27 states are under wind chill warnings or advisories.

When winter temperatures plummet, the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning increases, according to The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

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In Chicago, six people in a residential building were hospitalized Wednesday from carbon monoxide poisoning. The Chicago Fire Department said two people were in serious-to-critical condition and four in fair-to-serious condition

Know as a "quiet killer," CO is found in the fumes created when fuel burning in cars, portable generators, stoves, BBQ grills, lanterns, fireplaces, and even water heaters are used. It can't can't be seen or smelled. The gas is poisonous and can be fatal for anyone who inhales it, although the elderly, infants, and chronically sick are more at risk.

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Each year more than 400 people die from unintentional CO poisoning and another 50,000 visit the emergency room, according to the CDC. The most common symptoms of CO poisoning include headache, dizziness, weakness, upset stomach, vomiting, chest pain, and confusion, according to the CDC. The CO poisoning symptoms are often described as “flu-like.” If you have symptoms that you think could be the result of CO poisoning, leave the area immediately, and call 911 or go to the emergency room.

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People who are sleeping can die from CO poisoning before they become aware of any symptoms. There are steps you can take to keep you and your family safer from the risk of poisoning. 

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Take a look at safety tips from the CDC and nonprofit child safety organization KidsandCars.org that you can use all year-round: 

CO Tips for the Car

  • Annually take your car to a mechanic to have the exhaust system inspected -- small leaks can lead to trouble inside of the car.
  • Never run your car inside of the garage, even with the garage door open.
  • When opening the tailgate on your vehicles, make sure vents or windows are open to allow CO from the exhaust to circulate and not get trapped inside of the vehicle.
  • When inclement weather strikes, make sure the tailpipe of your car is not blocked with snow, ice, or other debris before turning the engine on. Don't allow others to wait inside a running car while clearing snow from around the vehicle.

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  • Be careful with keyless or push-start vehicles as even if the key fob is indoors, the vehicle outside could be running.
  • Make sure children are not playing near the exhaust pipe of a running vehicle and always keep vehicles locked with keys out of reach of children who may want to play inside.

CO Tips for the Home

  • Install a battery-operated CO detector in your home and be sure to place it somewhere where it will wake you if it goes off. The CDC advised to check or replace the battery twice a year when clocks are changed for daylight saving. Detectors should be replaced every five years.
  • Annually service your heating system and water heater by a professional to ensure fuels are burning properly.
  • Check your chimney each year as build-up debris can cause blockage and in turn trap CO in your house.

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  • Don't use portable gas stoves designed for outdoor camping, or any other gasoline or charcoal-burning device, inside your home.
  • If you have a generator anywhere in your home, make sure it is less than 20 feet from a ventilation system like a door, window or a vent.  
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Philly Councilman Pleads Not Guilty to Corruption Charges

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A day after being charged in a sweeping federal indictment as the political pawn of Philadelphia's most powerful union leader, Councilman Bobby Henon pleaded not guilty to bribery, conspiracy and fraud charges. 

He was released on $50,000 bail on his own recognizance, his lawyer said.

Henon skipped the regularly scheduled city council session Thursday morning but introduced, via proxy, legislation that would "explore economic crimes and other unfair practices within the city's construction industry."

The legislation, introduced by Councilman Bill Greenlee in Henon's absence, would increase the amount of building and code inspectors within the Department of Licenses and Inspection, the same department Henon allegedly used to bolster the influence of electricians' union IBEW Local 98, according to the federal indictment.

Federal prosecutors on Wednesday charged Henon in a 116-count indictment that accused him of doing the bidding of union allies, including Local 98 leader John "Johnny Doc" Dougherty.

On Thursday, Henon was a no-show for city council's regularly scheduled  meeting despite tweeting earlier in the day that he would be present.

Henon, a former electrician who continues to collect a salary as a union official, is accused of conspiring with Dougherty to apply pressure on trade groups and businesses through his position on city council, according to federal prosecutors.

Dougherty and other union officials are also accused of embezzling union funds in excess of $600,000 and bullying businesses to hire Local 98 workers, according to the indictment. 

This included strong-arming administrators at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia over the installation of an MRI machine and pressuring Comcast to use Local 98 workers to install its fiber optic network, according to the indictment.

"I have done nothing wrong," Henon said in a statement Wednesday. "Every action I have taken as City Council member has been with the goal of serving working people."

On Thursday, he doubled down on Twitter: “Looking forward to continuing my work on behalf of the people of the City of Philadelphia at today's Council Meeting!”

But just a few hours later, as the weekly city council session got underway, his desk remained empty. Earlier in the morning, Henon was granted a leave of absence from Thursday's session.

The defendants named in the federal indictment include Henon, the majority leader on council and chair of the public property and public works committee; union president Brian Burrows, and union officials Michael Neill, Marita Crawford, Niko Rodriguez and Brian Fiocca - Dougherty's nephew. Also charged was Anthony Massa, who ran a construction company that received more than $1.8 million from the union for work done between 2010 and 2016.

This story is developing. Please check back for updates.



Photo Credit: Matt Rourke/AP

Live Countdown: How Many Days Until Spring

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With below-freezing temps gripping the region, you can't blame people for dreaming of spring in Philadelphia.

So when does spring start? Check out our countdown clock.



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Ready to Run Broad Street? Registration Opens Friday

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There is no need to break a sweat if you plan on registering for a spot in the 2019 Blue Cross Broad Street Run, the 40th edition of the iconic 10-mile dash.

This year’s 10-mile run down Broad Street from North Philadelphia to the Navy Yard in South Philadelphia will be held on Sunday, May 5. The free Health and Wellness Expo will take place on May 3 and May 4 at the Pennsylvania Convention Center.

NBC10 and Telemundo62 will broadcast the entire race live from start to finish.

Runners can register online from Feb. 1 until Feb. 15 at 11:59 p.m. Lottery selections are random and the sign-up period is more than two weeks long, so you'll have an equal chance to be one of the 40,000 or so participants no matter when you sign up, organizers say.

You don't need to be a marathoner or an elite sprinter to take part in the race. You just have to be able to complete a sub 15-minute mile, organizers say.

People can register as individuals or as groups of three to five runners, according to organizers. 

Runners can find out on Feb. 19 if they have a spot in the field. You will only be charged the $55 registration fee if you get a spot in the race field.

People who miss out on the race lotto or want to avoid it all together can also guarantee a spot by raising $500 to five select charities picked by race organizers.

Anyone who has participated in 10 or more previous Broad Street Runs is guaranteed a spot in the race as a "tenured runner" but they must apply during the regular lottery registration period then alert race organizers if they don't get in on the first turn, organizers said.

This year, runners may notice a new race logo and website. They will also get a nifty race-branded tech shirt.

The race is one of the largest 10-mile road races in the county. The first Broad Street Run was held in 1980 with 1,500 runners and it has since become one of the city's iconic annual events over its 40 years.

“On this milestone anniversary, we are celebrating not only this iconic world-class race, but also the city of Philadelphia itself, which is a huge part of the overall run experience, beginning with the Expo and leading up to actual race day,” Leo Dignan, assistant managing director for the City of Philadelphia Department of Parks and Recreation, said.

The race raises money for the American Cancer Society, having raised more than $5 million since 1982.

Get more information about registration specifics on the run's website



Photo Credit: Kait Privitera

Fire and Ice Pose Double Threat for Firefighters

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Firefighters battled flames and the bitter cold along Bunker Hill Road in New Castle, Delaware, Thursday morning. Three firefighters suffered minor injuries battling the blaze.



Photo Credit: SkyForce10

Del. Man Thought He Won $1,000, Goes Home with $1 Million

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A retired 66-year-old man from Long Neck, Delaware, is now $1 million richer.

The man, who the Delaware Lottery said wished to remain anonymous, said he usually purchases a few "Instant Game" and "Draw Game" tickets every week. He purchased his winning Mega Millions ticket at Atlantic Liquors in Rehoboth, using "Quick Pick" to choose his numbers. 

“I never could have believed this happened,” the man said. “I scanned it in the store and thought it was $1,000 at first. I scanned it, and the screen said it was a winner. I gave it to the woman (cashier), and she couldn’t believe it either.”

When asked what he planned on doing with his winnings, the big winner said he was going to relax and enjoy his twilight years.


Car Problems During the Brutal Cold

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The frigid cold weather is taking its toll on cars across the area. We followed the AAA as they helped stranded drivers.

South Jersey Woman Searches for Lost Wedding Dress

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Missing, lost or stolen? A South Jersey newlywed's wedding dress, which is valued over $10,000, went missing after it was dropped off at a local shipping store.

NBC10 Responds: How to Spot a Counterfeit Ticket

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A major announcement was made about a counterfeit ticket ring. NBC10 Responds and Harry Hairston reveal tips on how to spot a fake ticket.

Maple Shade Police Chief Reflects on Career

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After serving nearly 38 on the force, Gary Gubbei is retiring as chief of the Maple Shade Police Department. He speaks to NBC10 about his career in law enforcement.

NBC10 Responds: Tips on Securing Your Packages

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Sometimes items we send through the mail don't make it to their destination. NBC10 Responds shares tips on protecting and securing your packages.

Writer Discovers Incorporation Date for Cape May is Wrong

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The nation’s oldest seaside resort is getting a lesson about its own history thanks to a local writer.

In Cape May, New Jersey, the incorporation date of “1857” is what you’ll find on the city’s seal, logo, letterheads, flags, books, buildings and vehicles. It turns out however, that the date is wrong.

“It sounds like the correct date truly should be 1851 rather than 1857,” Cape May Deputy City Clerk Erin Burke said.

The Victorian city has used the incorrect year for several decades, if not longer, and few realized the error. That was until resident John Bailey wrote his book “Cape Island” in 2011. While doing research for it, he discovered the mistake. 

“The mansion house burned in ’57 but I figured they wouldn’t want that on the seal,” Bailey said.

Bailey informed Cape May’s current mayor. Burke worked with a member of the Cape May County clerk’s office to confirm.

“We haven’t been able to figure out when the mistake was made or how,” Burke said. “Probably just something as a simple typo years and years ago.”

City council members are expected to vote next week on a resolution that would change the incorporation date to 1851. Yet updating that number on vehicles and everything else won’t be free.

“I would say probably five to ten thousand dollars,” Cape May City Councilman Shaine Meier said. “That’s just a guess.”

Officials say it’s a process that could be done in phases.

Drag Queen Reading Event at Library Sparks Backlash

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A local library says it's not backing down from hosting a weekend drag queen reading event for kids, even in the face of angry phone calls and a possible protest.

The "Drag Queen Story Fun Time" with drag queen Annie Christ is still happening Saturday at the Lansdale Public Library despite opposition from conservative Christian groups who say she promotes anti-Christianity.

The event has been scheduled for about a month, but only in recent days have groups come out against it, Christ said, adding that she has received threats of violence. "I've gotten some pretty gross, nasty, violent stuff directly toward me," she said.

Steve L. Piotrowski is one of the men who has organized a "prayer gathering and rally" at the library at the same time as the reading event. In a statement, he said the name "Annie Christ" is a play on "anti-Christ" and therefore represents a form of religious discrimination.

"As a Lansdale Public Library donor, I am concerned along with everybody else that the library is taking on such a politically controversial issue - especially when receiving tax dollars," Piotrowski said in a statement to NBC10.

The event, however, is not actually officially sponsored by the library or the city, the chief of the Lansdale Police Department said. Christ qualified to rent the library space and passed a background check to do so.

"The library is open to everyone," Tom Meyer, the director of the library, told NBC10.

And, Christ said, the event is not as controversial as Piotrowski makes out. "I get so many messages every day of people being supportive and it's so refreshing," she said.

Instead, most of the furor has been coming from out of town, according to the LPD chief, who added that officers will be at the library to make sure any protests don't get out of hand.

In Lansdale itself, where Christ has lived for the last five years, she says she's received an outpouring of support.

"I'm so proud of Lansdale. I could not be more proud of the community and just the outpour of support that I'm getting. It's really great," she said.

She intends to push ahead with the reading event and has even used the attention and increased interest to make it double as a food drive for local charity Manna on Main Street.

She also plans to talk with Piotrowski, who reached out to her saying he would like a "civil conversation" and that he doesn't "hate" her. Though he also praised Christ for her work to help the hungry in a message shared with NBC10, Piotrowski says he still plans on holding the rally.

Christ, however, remains undeterred and wants to use the reading event to inspire kids and show them that there's nothing wrong with being different.

"When I was younger ... I was just the odd person out and I thought that something was wrong with me. So I figured I would use this opportunity to tell kids it's OK to be different, it's OK to be weird," she said. "Listen to the music you want to listen to. If you're not hurting anyone, if you're not hurting yourself, then it's OK."

Christ will read two books Saturday: "Naked Mole Rat Gets Dressed" and "Sparkle Boy." The first title is about a naked mole rat who enjoys wearing clothes, unlike his peers. The second is about a boy who is teased for liking traditionally feminine things and whose older sister initially finds his preferences odd.

In addition, kids who attend will be treated to snacks and dancing and coloring activities.


Dangerous Cold Leads to Pothole Problems Across the Area

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The dangerously cold temperatures are leading to more potholes on roads in our area.

Man Stops Woman From Jumping in Front of SEPTA Train

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What would you do if you saw someone in need of help? Would you talk to them, look the other way or walk right by? A local man’s decision to talk ended up saving a woman’s life at a SEPTA station Tuesday.

“He made a difference in somebody’s life,” SEPTA Police Chief Thomas Nestel said.

Rodney Royster, 27, was at the 15th Street Station Tuesday night when he noticed a woman standing close to the edge of the platform as a train approached.

“My heart was beating fast,” Royster said.

The woman repeatedly yelled that she was going to jump. So he moved in her direction and started talking to her. He ended up coaxing her away from the edge by using money and food. Other witnesses called 911 and responding police officers took the woman to the hospital.

“You never know what a person is going through nowadays in this society,” Royster said. “I’m just happy that I was there.”

Another Frigid Morning

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This story is no longer being updated. For the latest on the Friday snow, click here.

An arctic blast with cold temperatures continues Friday but relief is on the way after some snow Friday. 

Here is what to expect:

  • Friday: Light snow is possible as high temps only get into the 20s.
  • Saturday: Temps finally start to warm above freezing.

Bitter cold continues Friday with highs only getting into the low 20s. Light snow is possible from a weak system in the late morning into the afternoon. South Jersey and Delaware neighborhoods have the best chance for any minor accumulation.

Relief comes over the weekend with temps in the 30s Saturday then getting up to 50 in some neighborhoods Sunday. It could get to 60 degrees by Tuesday.

Thursday was the coldest part of the arctic blast. On Thursday morning, low temperatures (without the wind chill) were in the single digits or below zero in most neighborhoods. Before daybreak, feels-like temps dipped to around 10 below in the Philly area, around 20 below in the Lehigh Valley and 30-plus below in the Poconos.

High temps Thursday, despite the sun, didn't get out of the teens.

Keep checking NBC10 on air and the NBC10 App (download it now) throughout the week for the up-to-date First Alert Weather forecast.



Photo Credit: NBC10
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Philly Auto Show Roars Into Town

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From Hollywood cars to luxury sports cars to the newest rides you could own, the Philly Auto Show has you covered. Take a look around at some of the cars on display.



Photo Credit: NBC10

Super Bowl Weekend Kicks Off Without Wing Bowl This Year

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There is an empty space in Philadelphia's collective stomach this Friday morning.

There is no Wing Bowl, the City of Brotherly Love’s annual Super Bowl weekend celebration of excess, this year.

Wing Bowl founders and 94 WIP morning hosts Angelo Cataldi and Al Morganti put Wing Bowl to rest in October.

“Wing Bowl, after 26 years, is being put to rest,” an emotional Cataldi said.

Station reps cited the Eagles winning the Super Bowl, which happened just days after the final Wing Bowl, as the reason for ending the annual chicken wing-eating competition.

In the #MeToo era, the event was a relic. Wing Bowl, held early in the morning on the Friday before the Super Bowl, was known as much for its outlandish, and at times politically incorrect, entrances and scantily clad Wingettes as it was for chicken wing eating. Fans would start tailgating in the pitch dark before the event began at 6 a.m.

The first Wing Bowl was held in a hotel lobby. The event quickly grew to packing the Wells Fargo Center with thousands of (sometimes drunken) fans each winter and even becoming a ticketed event.

Over the years, celebrities from Snooki to Jon Bon Jovi took part in the festivities as the organizers looked to make each year bigger and better.

Molly Schuyler downed 501 wings to set the record at last year's final Wing Bowl.



Photo Credit: Getty Images
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