Good morning, Allentown.

69 News released its morning NETCAST for Oct.

5 – a special report that reviews top local stories including community events, business updates, and cultural happenings. Viewers can check 69 News or WFMZ online for the complete rundown.

A new report from Altitude Marketing shows that AI search drove 27% of new business for chemical companies in 2026 and that 34% of 2027 budgets are planned for AI search tactics.

The survey of 152 marketing leaders suggests this trend will reshape local industrial strategies.

Lehigh Valley experts debated a 32-hour workweek amid rising productivity and workforce challenges as remote work and AI spark renewed interest in alternative schedules.

Some noted shorter hours might boost work-life balance (though concerns remain over lost billable income).

Gas prices in Pennsylvania dropped after a record-high September as the state average fell to $4.479 per gallon—a six-cent reduction from last week—while the Lehigh Valley saw prices decline from $4.402 to $4.320 on Oct.

3, though rates remain above last year’s average.

Nonprofits are turning to legacy giving as government support becomes less reliable, with local groups like Penn-Mar Human Services developing planned giving — a long-term strategy.

This method provides sustainable funding to keep essential services running amid economic shifts.

The Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission approved a settlement with UGI that will raise natural gas bills by $3.93 a month from $113.76 to $117.69 starting today + then to $120.21 in Oct.

2027 while also requiring better services for low-income users, ensuring rates remain steady until Jan. 2029.

Allentown Fire Department advises residents to test smoke+carbon monoxide detectors and service heating systems as night temperatures drop to help prevent home fires; local experts stress regular checks to maintain safe heating practices.