Author Archives: Alexandra Jones

Ice Cycles: With a little preparation, you’ll be biking in a winter wonderland

December 30, 2025 | by Susan Ryder

Eric Tuttle rode into Camp Hill’s Holmes Cycling & Fitness from his five-mile bike commute like he didn’t get the memo that it was cold outside.

He likes riding in the winter and thinks that cyclists should give it a try.

“The hardest thing about getting on your bike in the wintertime is taking the step out, just get out,” said Tuttle, an avid cyclist and employee at Holmes. “Then once you’re out, you’re there, you’re doing it.”

The staff in the shop nodded in agreement.

“This time of year, it’s a little harder to get out,” said Don Kessel. “But once you’re done, you don’t regret it.”

The next most difficult thing might be dealing with the cold weather. Biking in the cold needs some special attention.

“What most people don’t take into consideration when they hop on a bike in the winter is the speed factor,” said Sharyn Kocevar, business manager at InGear Cycling & Fitness in Hummelstown. “It’s actually lowering the temperature.”

In the summer, that cool down is refreshing. In the winter, not so much, especially if riders aren’t expecting it. Riding slower in the winter actually helps riders stay warmer, said Tuttle.

“We like to say that there’s no such thing as bad weather, just bad equipment,” Tuttle said.

That equipment includes clothing. The old adage, dress in layers, is an adage for a reason—it works. Tuttle said that he runs a bit warmer, so he may wear less gear than others.

“It’s all different per person,” he said.

Stay Warm

There’s no need to go and buy lots of expensive gear.

Ski clothing, running clothing or just general cold weather clothing is fine. It’s a good idea to have a place to put those layers if you need to shed them. Kocevar has a bike rack with a bag.

“You can incorporate some of your normal cold weather gear but be prepared with what to do with your layers,” he said.

Extremities typically take the biggest beating from the cold.

“When it’s 30 degrees, it’s more of a challenge for your toes, ears and fingers,” Tuttle said.

Hand warmers are a good solution, but Tuttle has a suggestion to make them more efficient.

“You think, ‘My toes are cold, so I’m gonna get those toe pieces that go in my boots,’” he said. “And your fingers are cold, so you’re going to put them there too.”

However, Tuttle suggests placing the warmers by the pulse points at the wrist and ankle. The blood flowing past these points will heat up the entire extremity.

For folks who have more trouble in the cold, heated vests, socks and gloves are available.

“You can adjust the temperature and warm that area of your body that needs to stay warm,” Kocevar said.

Riders also need to keep hydrated in the winter, which also can warm them up.

“I sometimes take a warm liquid and my regular water, and I’ve mixed in a bouillon cube,” Tuttle said.

Worth It

Conditions are another area of challenge for winter biking. Many road cyclists put up their bikes for the winter, but for those who continue to ride, there are a few things to consider. For one, prepare for a different riding experience.

“They don’t do street sweeping in the wintertime,” Kocevar said. “And that’s what keeps the loose gravel and the trash off the shoulder.”

When it snows, even on plowed roads, the shoulder can be gone. Knowing your route is key to keeping safe for the commuting cyclist, said Kocevar.

Conditions on trails can vary, too. Part of the trail can be nice and clear and another part slushy, snowy or icy, making traction challenging. Lowering your tire pressure can help with this.

“When you lower the air pressure in your tire, you give yourself a wider surface area for traction,” said Kocevar.

Preparedness is more important in the winter. With fewer folks on the trails, a rider must know how to change their own tire or make other simple repairs. Walking five miles with a bike in the summer is one thing; walking five miles with a bike in the winter is another thing altogether.

“Carry a lock if you need to secure your bike and go back and get it later and have a phone-a-friend option,” Kocevar said.

This preparedness makes for a better riding experience, so riders are more apt to go out again.

So, where can folks cycle in the winter? Rail trails provide a great option. Their flat terrain and sandy, gritty texture provide an easier ride with more grip.

“Find something small nearby,” Tuttle said. “We live within driving distance of rail trails here—the main thing is to get out and try it.”

If a solo ride doesn’t sound like fun, Holmes has group biking opportunities listed on Strava.com. Included in the mix are social rides, ladies-only rides, training rides and mountain rides. And if a person needs a little courage to make the leap, Holmes is there to help.

“We’re all here to talk about it,” Tuttle said. “That’s what we all do, that’s what we live for.”

In a group, or solo, in the snow or gritty trail, riding in the winter provides exercise and allows riders to continue to do something they enjoy through the winter months. Riders shouldn’t let the season stand in their way.

“It’s worth it, and a lot of people just get nervous to try it,” Tuttle said.

For more information about Pennsylvania Rail Trails, visit www.railstotrails.org/state/pennsylvania.
For more information on Holmes Cycling & Fitness, visit www.holmescycling.com.
For more information on InGear Cycling & Fitness, visit www.ingearcycling-fitness.com.

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Fit for All: New program emphasizes exercise for special needs

December 30, 2025 | by Phyllis Zimmerman

Fit Abilities participants

Joleen Bingham, of Lewisberry, said it “broke my heart” that there’s “not a lot of fitness” for the special needs population who surpass school age.

That’s why Bingham, whose two of three children are on the autism spectrum, founded Fit Abilities at 13 Stripes Fitness in October with Estreya Rosado of Hershey.

Although Bingham no longer is with the program, Rosado continues to run Fit Abilities at the former 13 Stripes Fitness in Dillsburg, now rebranded as Avenger Athletics. Rosado also plans to expand Fit Abilities to Avenger Athletic locations in West Hanover Township and Newport at a date “to be determined in the first quarter of 2026,” she said.

“This is a program designed to make fitness and movement safe, supportive and truly inclusive for people with intellectual and physical disabilities, autism, Down syndrome, cerebral palsy, spinal cord injuries and more,” Bingham said.

Rosado said that she and Bingham started the endeavor to help “an underserved population.” She is CEO of Avenger Athletics, offering strength training, weight training, life coaching and more, in addition to Fit Abilities.

So far, the program offers small group classes and one-on-one coaching for clients ages 16 and up, with expansion planned for school-age children in January. Rosado said that she also would like to see Fit Abilities partner with other organizations for greater access to the disabled population in the future.

Fit Abilities’ groups are intentionally set at a maximum of six participants, so that each person receives dedicated attention.

“Whether you’re working out one-on-one or with a group, you’ll always be seen, heard and encouraged,” the program’s website states.

Fit Abilities also notes that “everyone’s starting point is different,” so workouts are designed around each participant’s current mobility, coordination and comfort level.

Bingham said that she’s leaving it up to her two children whether they sign up for Fit Abilities sessions. “They can make up their own minds to participate,” she noted.

Quality of Life

As many know, physical activity is an important component in maintaining health, well-being and quality of life. For people with disabilities, physical activity fosters daily living activities and independence. It also helps reduce anxiety and depression.

According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control, one in four adults is living with a disability defined as seriously affecting walking or climbing stairs, hearing, seeing, concentrating, remembering, making decisions, completing errands alone and dressing or bathing.

In turn, adults with disabilities are more likely to have obesity, heart disease, stroke, diabetes or cancer than adults without disabilities, the CDC states. Physical activity is important as it can reduce the risk and/or help manage these chronic conditions.

Unfortunately, less than half of U.S. adults with serious difficulty walking or climbing stairs (i.e. mobility disability) report taking part in aerobic physical activity. Of those who are active, walking is the most common activity, yet adults with disabilities report more environmental barriers for this activity than those who aren’t disabled.

That’s where Fit Abilities fits in.

“People with special needs are special just like everyone else, but their brain works a little differently,” Bingham said. “They look at life a little differently.”

In addition, the relationship goes both ways, benefiting both the participants and the instructors.

“I like that I get to help people,” Rosado noted.

For more information about Fit Abilities at Avenger Athletics, visit www.13stripesfitness.com or call 717-420-9898.

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Happenings: Our January Calendar of Events

December 30, 2025 | by Missy Smith

Museums & Art Spaces

AACA Museum
161 Museum Dr., Hershey
717-566-7100; aacamuseum.org

“Mustang Then and Now,” through April 18

“Old School Rods and Customs, through April 19

SAAB Showroom, through April 19

Art Association of Harrisburg
21 N. Front St., Harrisburg
717-236-1432; artassocofhbg.com

“All Access Harrisburg,” highlighting Pennsylvania’s capital city through the lenses of photographers William Hicks, Dr. Eliseo Rosario, Ron Steficek and Michael Yatsko, through Jan. 8

“Women of the Permanent Collection,” featuring a variety of female artists from the 20th century with their own distinctive style and unique perspective, through March 27

Carlisle Arts Learning Center (CALC)
38 W. Pomfret St., Carlisle
717-249-6973; carlislearts.org

“Contain—CALC’s 2026 Juried Show,” an exploration of vessels, depictions of vessels and vessels as a metaphor, Jan.9-31

The Cornerstone Coffeehouse
2133 Market St., Camp Hill
thecornerstonecoffeehouse.com

January artist of the month

Gallery on the Square
Millersburg Area Art Association
226 Union St., Millersburg
Facebook: Gallery on the Square

Art & Craft Featuring Millersburg, Jan. 1-31

Hershey Area Art Association (HAAA)
hersheyart.org

HAAA Member Artwork at Hershey Public Library, hallway gallery, through Feb. 14

HAAA Member Artwork at Hershey Public Library, community room, through May 30

Historical Society of Dauphin County
John Harris-Simon Cameron Mansion
219 S. Front St., Harrisburg
717- 233-3462; dauphincountyhistory.org

Mansion Tours, Tuesdays-Friday, 1 p.m., 2 p.m. and 3 p.m.

Messiah University
One University Ave., Mechanicsburg
717-766-2511; messiah.edu

Senior Art Educator Exhibition—B.S. Art Education Program, Jan. 17-Feb. 1; reception: Jan .17, 4:30 p.m.

Works by Ali Wunder and Emily Fussner, Jan. 23-March 3; artist’s talk and reception: Jan. 23, 4:30 p.m.

The Millworks
340 Verbeke St., Harrisburg
717-695-4888; millworksharrisburg.com

Holiday gift shopping, a collection of work by Millworks in-house artists, ready to take off the wall and wrap up, through Jan. 11

New works by Jemar Sweets, Kate Gambini, Rea Ann Ross, Richard Souders, Marsha Souders, Spencer Jackson and Steve Barber, Jan. 12-Feb. 15

Ned Smith Center for Nature and Art
176 Water Company Rd., Millersburg
717-692-3699; nedsmithcenter.org

Mixed media work by Kristen Wierman, Jan. 16-April 4; reception: Jan. 16, 5-8 p.m.

“Ned Smith Unseen,” Jan. 3-March 21

“Cryptids of Pennsylvania and the Appalachian Trail,” through Jan. 10

New Cumberland Public Library
1 Benjamin Plaza, New Cumberland
717-774-7820; newcumberlandlibrary.org

Art in the Stacks—Rebekah Richmond, Jan. 1-31

Pennsylvania National Fire Museum
1820 N. 4th St., Harrisburg
717-232-8915; pnfm.org

Exhibits dedicated to Pennsylvania firefighting history

Perry County Council of the Arts
PCCA Gallery, 1 S. 2nd St., Newport
717-567-7023; perrycountyarts.org

“My Pleasant Splendid,” pressed flower pictures by Judy Bouder, through Jan. 3

The State Museum of Pennsylvania
300 North St., Harrisburg
717-787-4980; statemuseumpa.org

“Game Changers—Pennsylvania Women Who Made History,” celebrating women from across PA in diverse fields, detailing their contributions and challenges they faced in their lifetimes

“Bannered Heroes—Celebrating Pennsylvania’s African American Veterans,” presented by Beta Pi Boulé, the Harrisburg chapter of Sigma Pi Phi Fraternity (the Boulé)

“Horse2Auto—A Transportation Revolution”

Susquehanna Art Museum
1401 N. 3rd St., Harrisburg
717-233-8668; susquehannaartmuseum.org

“Mixed Mythology,” works by Mary Curran that draw on a deep reverence for the natural world and explores how humans make sense of their surroundings, through Jan. 4

Dōshi Gallery Juried Exhibition—“Nightfall,” exploring the concept of oncoming night, whether metaphorically or through medium and technique, Jan. 9-April 5

“SAM Celebrates 10 Years—An Anniversary Exhibition,” through Feb. 15

“If Herr Street Could Talk,” the homecoming exhibition of award-winning abstract artist and Harrisburg native, Alteronce Gumby, through Feb. 22

The Trout Gallery
Dickinson College
240 W. High St., Carlisle
717-254-8159; troutgallery.org

“A Measure of Value,” works by Faith Ringgold, Sue Coe, Andy Warhol, the Guerilla Girls and others that consider how art and artifacts intersect with economic principles of markets, Jan. 16-April 4

“Her Dreams Are True,” a new perspective on the role of archives, museum collections and the personal memory in Apsáalooke (Crow) artist Wendy Red Star’s prints and photos, through Feb. 7

The Ware Center
42 N. Prince St., Lancaster
717-871-2308; artsmu.com

“Gather and Release,” paper quilts by Elaine Elledge, through Jan. 30

Wheel of Light Studio
3738 Peters Mountain Rd., Halifax
wheeloflightstudio.com

“Cabin Fever—What Saves an Artist from Insanity and Boredom,” an eclectic show in a variety of mediums to brighten up the dreary days of winter, Jan. 7-Feb. 21

Wildwood Park
100 Wildwood Way, Harrisburg
717-221-0292; explorewildwoodpark.org

2025 Photo Contest Display, showcasing Dauphin County parks photographs, through Jan. 24
Read, Make, Learn

Appalachian Brewing Co./Abbey Bar
50 N. Cameron St., Harrisburg
717-221-1083; abcbrew.com

Jan. 7, 14, 21, 28: Swing dance classes, 6:30-9 p.m.

The Art Center School & Galleries
18 Artcraft Dr., Mechanicsburg
717-697-2072; theartcenterschoolandgalleries.com

Jan. 20, 27: Abstract Painting (ages 9-14), 5:30-7:30 p.m.
Jan. 20-Feb. 24: Functional Pottery (ages 12+ with parent or guardian), Tuesdays, 6-9 p.m.
Jan. 21-Feb. 25: The Ceramic Studio (adults), Wednesdays, 6-9 p.m.
Jan. 22-Feb. 12: Acrylic Painting (adults), Thursdays, 1:30-3 p.m.
Jan. 22-Feb. 12: Intermediate/Advanced Pastel Painting (adults), Thursdays, 9:30 a.m.-12 p.m.
Jan. 22-Feb. 12: Pottery Wheel Throwing, all levels (adults), Thursdays, 9:30 a.m.-12 p.m.
Jan. 22-Feb. 26: Pottery for All (ages 15+), Thursdays, 6-9 p.m.

Capital Blue Cross Connect
4500 Marketplace Way, Enola
capitalbluecrossconnect.com

Jan. 2, 9, 16, 23, 30: Strong + Fit, in person and virtual, 10 a.m.
Jan. 5, 12, 19, 26: Gentle Yoga, 9:30 a.m.
Jan. 5, 12, 19, 26: Fitness Flow, 4:15 p.m.
Jan. 5, 19: Virtual Pilates, 5 p.m.
Jan. 6: Exploring the Dimensions of Wellness, 11 a.m.
Jan. 6: Chair Yoga at York Connect Store, 11:30 a.m.
Jan. 6, 13, 20, 27: Virtual Menopause Workshop, 12 p.m.
Jan. 7, 14, 21, 28: Virtual INSPIRE, 9 a.m.
Jan. 7, 14, 21, 28: Virtual Pilates, 12 p.m.
Jan. 7, 14, 21, 28: Kickboxing + Strength, 4:30 p.m.
Jan. 8, 15, 22, 29: Ready, Steady, Action! at Enola Store and Virtual, 4:15 p.m.
Jan. 14, 28: Virtual Cooking Demo, 12 p.m.
Jan. 21: Connect—Health & Wellness and Beyond Webinar, 10 a.m.

Carlisle Arts Learning Center (CALC)
38 W. Pomfret St., Carlisle
717-249-6973; carlislearts.org

Jan. 10: Indigo Dyeing (ages 15-adult), 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
Jan. 12-Feb. 16: Wheel 101 (ages 16-adult), Mondays, 7-9 p.m.
Jan. 13: Storybook Studio (ages 2-5), 10:30-11:15 a.m.
Jan. 14-Feb. 18: Wednesday Wheel 102, Wednesdays, 6-8 p.m.
Jan. 17: Making Collage Pagers, 10 a.m.-2 p.m.
Jan. 17, 24: Morphology (ages 9-14), 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m.
Jan. 19: Level Up! (ages 5-12), 9 a.m.-3 p.m.
Jan. 20: Suicide Loss Survivors (ages 13-adult), 5:30-7 p.m.
Jan. 23: Craft Beer & Clay, 7-9 p.m.
Jan. 24: Put Your Color Pedal to the Metal (ages 13-adult), 10 a.m.-12 p.m.
Jan. 24: Collage as a Fine Art (adult), 10 a.m.-2 p.m.
Jan. 31: Beaded Besties (ages 5-12), 10:30 a.m.-12 p.m.
Jan. 31: Abstract Painting, 12-3 p.m.

Dauphin County Library System
dcls.org

Jan. 3: Once Upon a Rainbow at LGBT Center of Central PA, 11 a.m.-12 p.m.
Jan. 13: Books on Tap at Rubber Soul Brewery, Hummelstown, 6-7 p.m.

East Shore Area Library
4501 Ethel St., Harrisburg
717-652-9380; dcls.org

Jan. 3 Figment Forge, 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
Jan. 6, 13, 20, 27: Crafting with the Classics—Frankenstein, 5:30-7 p.m.
Jan. 14: Secure Your Future—Retirement Income Planning, 1-2 p.m.
Jan. 15: Sip and Speak, 3-4:30 p.m.
Jan. 17: Minds Matter Harrisburg, 11 a.m.-2:30 p.m.
Jan. 18: East Shore Cinema, 2-5 p.m.
Jan. 20: Around the Word in 12 Fairytales, 5-5:45 p.m.
Jan. 21: Investing with Confidence, 1-2 p.m.
Jan. 26: The Stitch Sitch, 2-3:30 p.m.
Jan. 28: Life Insurance Essentials—Planning for Every Stage, 1-2 p.m.

Elizabethtown Public Library
10 S. Market St., Elizabethtown
717-367-7467; etownpubliclibrary.org

Jan. 3: Knitter’s Group, 10 a.m.-2 p.m.
Jan. 6, 13, 20, 27: Card Making Group, 5-7 p.m.
Jan. 8, 15, 22, 29: Fiber Artists, 3-6 p.m.
Jan. 10: Fiber Artists, 10 a.m.-2 p.m.

Fredricksen Library
100 N. 19th St., Camp Hill
717-761-3900; fredricksenlibrary.org

Jan. 6, 13, 20, 27: Food and Farm Discovery Zone (ages 3-5), 10 a.m.-12 p.m.
Jan. 7, 14, 21, 28: Baby Rhyme Time, 9:15 a.m.
Jan. 7, 14, 21, 28: Active Toddler Time, 10-10:30 a.m.
Jan. 7, 14, 21, 28: Toddler Storytime, 10:30-11 a.m.
Jan. 7, 14, 21, 28: Preschool Storytime, 11-11:30 a.m.
Jan. 8, 15, 22, 29: Meditation to Calm the Mind. 12-12:30 p.m.
Jan. 8, 15, 22, 29: Elementary STEAM Drop in, 3:30-4:30 p.m.
Jan. 8, 15, 22, 29: Teens Teaching Tech, 4-5 p.m.
Jan. 17: CPR Heart Saver, 1-4:30 p.m.
Jan. 22: Disney Storytime, 9:30-10 a.m.
Jan 24: Book Dragon Club— Craftivism, 6-8:30 p.m.

Gallery on the Square
Millersburg Area Art Association
226 Union St., Millersburg
Facebook: Gallery on the Square

Jan. 10: Winter Wreath Workshop, 10 a.m.-12 p.m.
Jan. 25: Winter Glass Painting, 2-4 p.m.

George & Hettie Love Memorial Library
530 S. 29th St., Harrisburg
717-234-3934; dcls.org

Jan. 3: Otherworldly Book Club, 12-1 p.m.
Jan. 6, 13, 20, 27: Exploring Egypt, 4:30-5:30 p.m.
Jan. 8: Love Friends Book Bingo, 5:30-6:30 p.m.
Jan. 10: Knit One, Crochet Too!, 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
Jan. 17: Silent Book Club, 10:30-11:30 a.m.
Jan. 29: TBD (To-Be-Read list) Jars, 4-5:30 p.m.
Jan. 31: Write On!, 11 a.m.-1 p.m.

Harrisburg Improv Theatre
1633 N. 3rd St., Harrisburg
hbgimprov.com

Jan. 13-March 3: Level 2—Game of the Scene, Tuesdays, 6:30-9:30 p.m.
Jan. 22-March 12: Level 1—Intro to Improv, Thursdays, 6:30-9:30 p.m.

Hershey Area Art Association (HAAA)
hersheyart.org

Jan. 6-Feb. 17: Oil and Acrylics, Tuesdays, 10 a.m.-1 p.m.
Jan. 15-Feb. 19: Water Media, Thursdays, 10 a.m.-1 p.m.
Jan. 14-28: Portrait Painting, Wednesdays, 10 a.m.-1 p.m.

Hershey Gardens
170 Hotel Rd., Hershey
717-534-3492; hersheygardens.org

Jan. 11, 18, 25: Winter Walk, 2-3 p.m.
Jan. 14, 21, 28: Winter Wednesdays Family Series—Winter Animal Adaptations, 10 a.m.-12 p.m.
Jan. 17: Winter Bird Watch, 10 a.m.-12 p.m.
Jan. 23: Eco-Fiction Book Group, 12-12:30 p.m.

Hershey Public Library
701 Cocoa Ave., Hershey
717-533-6555; hersheylibrary.org

Jan. 3, 10, 17, 24, 31: Drop Off Your Extra Craft Supplies, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.
Jan. 6: Hershey Area Pokémon Club, 5:30-7 p.m.
Jan. 6: Mysteries, She Wrote Mystery Book Club, 6:30-8 p.m.
Jan. 6, 8, 13, 15, 20, 22, 27, 29: Penn State Hershey Mothers & Babies, 10:15 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
Jan. 7: LEGO Club, 1-2 p.m.
Jan. 7: Spontaneous Sparks Improv Class with Gamut Theatre, 2-3:30 p.m.
Jan. 7, 14, 21, 28: Community Crochet Night, 6-7 p.m.
Jan. 8, 15, 22, 29: Teen Time, 2:30-4:15 p.m.
Jan. 12: Hershey Area Neighbors and Newcomers, 10:15 a.m.-1 p.m.
Jan. 12: Read to a Hockey Player, 4-4:45 p.m.
Jan. 15, 29: Hershey Quilters, 12:30 p.m.
Jan. 16: Play Day for Families, 10-11 a.m.
Jan. 17: Cocoa Area Fiber Enthusiasts, 10 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
Jan. 20: Splash of Serenity—Watercolors for Relaxation, 2-3:30 p.m.
Jan. 20, 27: Silent Book Group, 10-11:30 a.m.
Jan. 26: Books and Babies, 10:15-10:45 a.m.
Jan. 26: Storytime for Everyone, 11-11:30 a.m.
Jan. 27: 1, 2, Whee!, 10:15-10:45 a.m.
Jan. 29: Storytime for Everyone, 10:15-10:45 a.m.

Horn Farm Center for Agricultural Education
4945 Horn Road, York
717-757-6441; hornfarmcenter.org

Jan. 10, 24, Feb. 7: Ecological Restoration Certificate, 9 a.m.-3 p.m.
Jan. 21-Oct. 10 (meeting monthly): Beekeeper Training Program, 6-7:30 p.m.
Jan. 25: Walk the Seasons—Winter, 1:30-3:30 p.m.
Jan. 27: Dude, Grass is so 1753, 6-7:30 p.m.

Johnson Memorial Library
799 East Center St., Millersburg
717-692-2658; dcls.org

Jan. 21: Weekday Getaway, 4-5:30 p.m.
Jan. 26: Winter PJ Party—Stuffy Drop Off, 3:30-5:30 p.m.
Jan. 27: Winter PJ Party—Stuffy Drop Off, 6-7 p.m.

The LGBT Center of Central PA
717-409-5781; centralpalgbtcenter.org

Jan. 3, 10, 17, 24, 31: Passageways, 2 p.m.
Jan. 4, 11, 18, 25: Young Adult Group, 4 p.m.
Jan. 7, 14, 21, 28: Common Roads (ages 12-17), 6-8 p.m.
Jan. 10: QTPOC Advisory Group, 6-8 p.m.

Madeline L. Olewine Memorial Library
2410 N. 3rd St., Harrisburg
717-232-7286; dcls.org

Jan. 27: Coloring for Adults!, 3:30-4:30 p.m.

McCormick Riverfront Library
101 Walnut St., Harrisburg
717-234-4976; dcls.org

Jan. 20: Snapology, 5-6:30 p.m.

Middletown Public Library
20 N. Catherine St., Middletown
717-944-6412; middletownpubliclib.org

Jan. 1, 8, 15, 22, 29: LEGO Club, 6-7 p.m.
Jan. 3: Open Studio, 10 a.m.-12 p.m.
Jan. 5, 12, 19, 26: STEAM Club, 6 p.m.
Jan. 6, 13, 20, 27: Tiny Tots Storytime, 10:30-11:30 a.m.
Jan. 6, 13, 20, 27: Wee Readers Storytime, 1-2 p.m.
Jan. 6, 13, 20, 27: Tales with T.A.I.L.S., 6-7 p.m.
Jan. 8, 15, 22, 29: Teen Time, 4-5 p.m.
Jan. 10: Community Table Top Game Time, 10 a.m.-12 p.m.
Jan. 20: Sensory Storytime, 6-7 p.m.

Midtown Scholar Bookstore-Cafe
1302 N. 3rd St., Harrisburg
717-236-1680; midtownscholar.com

Jan. 18: An Afternoon with Alice Feeney, 4-5 p.m.
Jan. 21: An Evening with Chuck Klosterman and Spike Eskin, 7-8 p.m.

The Millworks
340 Verbeke St., Harrisburg
717-695-4888; millworksharrisburg.com

Jan. 3: Abstract Mixed Media Acrylics—Working Large, 9-11:30 a.m.
Jan. 13: Crafty Stitches, 6-8 p.m.
Jan. 17: Clay Critters, 1-4 p.m.

Ned Smith Center for Nature and Art
176 Water Company Rd., Millersburg
717-692-3699; nedsmithcenter.org

Jan. 7: Pre-K Storytime, 10:30 a.m.
Jan. 10: Winter Hike, 10 a.m.-12 p.m.

New Cumberland Public Library
1 Benjamin Plaza, New Cumberland
717-774-7820; newcumberlandlibrary.org

Jan. 1-5: Snow Globe LEGO Contest (ages 5 and older)
Jan. 1-31: Crystal & Gem Scavenger Hunt (ages 0-12)
Jan. 1-31: Read With Benny Winter Reading Challenge (ages 0-18)
Jan. 2: Cozy Winter Cookie Decorating (ages 5 and older), 2-3 p.m.
Jan. 3, 10, 17: Take and Makes (ages 0-12)
Jan. 3, 17: Book Sales, 9 a.m.-3 p.m.
Jan. 5, 19: Great Books Discussion Group, 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
Jan. 5-Feb. 23: Winter Preschool Storytime (ages 3-5), 10:30-11:15 a.m.
Jan. 6: Brush Hour Art Club (ages 12 and older), 4:30-5:30 p.m.
Jan. 6-Feb. 10: Winter Book Babies (ages 0-2), Tuesdays, 11:15 a.m.-12 p.m.
Jan. 7: Piece Seekers, 6-7:30 p.m.
Jan. 7, 14, 21, 28: iPhone Class, 6-7:30 p.m.
Jan. 8: Ruth’s Mystery Discussion Group, 10:15 a.m.-12 p.m.
Jan. 8: Musical Mornings (ages 2-5), 10:30-11 a.m.
Jan. 9: Tumble Tots (ages 0-3), 10:30 a.m.-12 p.m.
Jan. 10: Teen Craft Kits (ages 13-17)
Jan. 13: Shelf Love, 6-7 p.m.
Jan. 13: Tales for Tails (ages 6-12), 6:30-7:30 p.m.
Jan. 15: Toddler Time (ages 2-3), 10:30-11 a.m.
Jan. 15: Winter Library Olympics (ages 5 and older), 5-6 p.m.
Jan. 16, 30: Block Party (ages 0-3), 10:30-11:30 a.m.
Jan. 22: Movers and Groovers (ages 2-5), 10:30-11 a.m.
Jan. 22: Murder at the Planetarium (ages 12 and older), 5:30-7:30 p.m.
Jan. 27: Junior Scientists (ages 5 and older), 5-6 p.m.

Palmyra Public Library
50 Landings Dr., Annville
717-838-1347; palmyra.lclibs.org

Jan. 5: Genealogy Group, 10-11 a.m.
Jan. 7, 14, 21, 28: Strength & Stretching 50+, 10-11 a.m.
Jan. 7, 14, 21, 28: Smart Start Storytime, 12:15-1:15 p.m.
Jan. 12: Book Club, 11 a.m.-12 p.m.
Jan. 15: Debut Author Book Club @ Book Bar, 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
Jan. 26: BYO Craft Nights Adults 18+, 4:30-6:45 p.m.

Panacea Healing Arts
701 N. Mountain Rd., Harrisburg
484-373-9109; panaceahealingarts.com

Jan. 5: Crystal Bowl Sound Immersion, 6-7 p.m.
Jan. 12: Gentle Yoga & Sound Immersion Savasana, 6:30-8 p.m.
Jan. 19: Monthly Community Central Pennsylvania Psychedelic Society Meeting, 6:30-8 p.m.

Perry County Council of the Arts
Landis House, 67 N. 4th St., Newport
717-567-7023; perrycountyarts.org

Jan. 5-Feb. 16: Pre-K Class Series—Creativity and the Elements of Art, Mondays, 10-11 a.m.
Jan.14-28: Introduction to Pottery—6-Week Beginners Class, Wednesdays, 6 p.m.

The State Museum of Pennsylvania
300 North St., Harrisburg
717-787-4980; statemuseumpa.org

Jan. 2-4: Faster Light
Jan. 2-4: Passport to the Universe
Jan. 9: Storytime, 10:30-11:30 a.m.
Jan. 9: Curiosity Kids—Crayons, 11:30 a.m.
Jan. 16: Tin Shop, 11:30 a.m.
Jan. 17: Storytime, 11 a.m.-12 p.m.
Jan. 17: Franklin Inventions, 11:30 a.m.-3 p.m.
Jan. 21: Let It Snow!, 11:30 a.m.
Jan. 23: Curiosity Kids—Magnets & Magnetism, 11:30 a.m.
Jan. 23: Virtual Program—Revolutionary Things, 12:15 p.m.
Jan. 30: GG1 Locomotive, 11:30 a.m.
Jan. 31: Buttons, Badges and Pins!, 10 a.m.

Susquehanna Art Museum
1401 N. 3rd St., Harrisburg
717-233-8668; susquehannaartmuseum.org

Jan. 8: Homeschool Happenings, 10:30 a.m.-12 p.m.

Wheel of Light Studio
3738 Peters Mountain Rd., Halifax
wheeloflightstudio.com

Jan. 2: Dumpling Snow Folk Workshop, 6-8 p.m.
Jan. 6: White Evergreen or Snowflake Mosaic, 6-8 p.m.
Jan. 9: Acrylic Snowy Tree Painting Class, 6-8 p.m.
Jan. 10: Hand Built Clay Tree Luminary, 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
Jan. 16: Hand Built Mug Workshop, 6-7:30 p.m.
Jan. 24: Clay Smoker Faerie House Workshop, 11 a.m.-1 p.m.

Wildwood Park
100 Wildwood Way, Harrisburg
717-221-0292; explorewildwoodpark.org

Jan. 6, 13, 20, 27: Wednesday Wellness Walks, 1-2:30 p.m.
Jan. 10: Birds & Coffee with Appalachian Audubon Society, 10-11 a.m.
Jan. 24: Kids Discover—Rocks and Minerals (ages 5-10), 1:30-3 p.m.
Jan. 27: Winter Lecture Series Intro to Homesteading—Start Where You Are, 7-8:30 p.m.
Jan. 28: Preschool Storytime—Winter at Wildwood, 10-10:45 a.m.
Jan. 31: Pressed Flower Valentines, 10 a.m.-2 p.m.

William H. & Marion C. Alexander Family Library
200 W. Second St., Hummelstown
717-566-0949; dcls.org

Jan. 3: Crafternoon, 11 a.m.-1 p.m.
Jan. 5: Bored Builders Needed! 5-6 p.m.
Jan. 9: Blood Drive, 11 a.m.-3:30 p.m.
Jan. 24: Build Your Own Terrarium, 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m.

Live Music

American Music Theatre
2425 Lincoln Highway East, Lancaster
717-397-7700; amtshows.com

Jan. 22: Hank Azaria and The EZ Street Band—A Springsteen Celebration
Jan. 23: Bill Engvall
Jan. 24: Elvis Birthday Bash with Mike Albert & Scot Bruce
Jan. 25: Mike Albert’s Elvis Gospel Show with The Stamps Quartet
Jan. 31: The Sixties Show

Appalachian Brewing Co./Abbey Bar
50 N. Cameron St., Harrisburg
717-221-1083; abcbrew.com

Jan. 8, 15, 22 Open Mic Night
Jan. 17: RIFT Phish Tribute w/ Sons of Pitches
Jan. 23: Cris Jacobs w/ The Adventures of Matte Black
Jan 29: DJ Brownie of The Disco Biscuits w/ Funkbot
Jan. 31: The Grateful Allman Band Experience

Appell Center for the Performing Arts
50 N. George St., York
717-846-1111; appellcenter.org

Jan. 2: Jazz in the City
Jan. 17: York Symphony
Jan. 23: The Bacon Brothers
Jan. 24: Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra
Jan. 30: Gabe Dixon, Cumberland Honey

Capital City Music Hall
234 N. 2nd St., Harrisburg
capcitymusichall.com

Jan. 17: Tantric
Jan. 20: Atmosphere, Sage Francis, R.A. The Rugged Man, Kool Keith, Mr. Dibbs
Jan. 23: Lez Zeppelin

Carley’s Ristorante and Piano Bar
204 Locust St., Harrisburg
717-909-9191; carleysristorante.com

Jan. 2, 14: Anthony Haubert
Jan. 7, 14: Dr. Nyce
Jan. 10, 24: Chris Emkey
Jan. 22, 28: Andrea Britton

Carlisle Theatre
44 West High St., Carlisle
717-258-0666; carlisletheatre.org

Jan. 24: Eaglemania—Eagles Tribute Band
Jan. 30: Hollywood Nights—The Bob Seger Experience

Englewood Hershey
1219 West End Ave., Hummelstown
717-256-9480; englewoodhershey.com

Jan. 24: U2topia

H*MAC
1110 N. 3rd St., Harrisburg
717-441-7506; harrisburgarts.com

Jan. 31: Jack Daniels

Harrisburg Symphony Orchestra
The Forum at 5th and Walnut St., Harrisburg
717-545-5527; harrisburgsymphony.org

Jan. 10-11: Beethoven and Barber
Jan. 31-Feb. 1: “Bravo Broadway!”

Hershey Public Library
701 Cocoa Ave., Hershey
717-533-6555; hersheylibrary.org

Jan. 10: Popcorn Hat Players presents “Little Red Riding Hood, 11-11:45 a.m.

Hollywood Casino
777 Hollywood Blvd., Grantville
717-469-2211; hollywoodpnrc.com

Jan. 2: The Uptown Band
Jan. 3: Blue Morning
Jan. 9: Amish Outlaws
Jan. 10: Funktion
Jan. 16: Emily’s Toybox
Jan. 17: The Audio Files
Jan. 23: Turning the Tide

Market Square Concerts
marketsquareconcerts.org

Jan. 7: Kerson Leong

Messiah University
One University Ave., Mechanicsburg
717-766-2511; messiah.edu

Jan. 18: Peter Sirotin and Friends

Metropolis Collective
17 W. Main St., Mechanicsburg
717-458-8245; metropoliscollective.com

Jan. 9: Mark Steiner & His Problems
Jan. 16: Downstrokes, Mighty Joe Castro and The Gravamen

Pine Street Presbyterian Church
310 N. 3rd St., Harrisburg
717-238-9304; pinestreet.org

Jan. 11: Talon Smith

Susquehanna Folk Music Society
717-745-6577; sfmsfolk.org

Jan. 11: January Jam & Song Swap
Jan. 17: Damn Tall Buildings
Jan. 31: Crys Matthews

West Shore Theatre
317 Bridge St, New Cumberland
717-759-5464; westshoretheatre.org

Jan. 23: Forrest Brown
Jan. 30: Colebrook Road
Jan. 31: Captain Mike & The Shipwrecked (Jimmy Buffet tribute)

Whitaker Center
222 Market St., Harrisburg
717-214-ARTS; whitakercenter.org

Jan. 16: Best of The Eagles

XL Live
801 S. 10th St., Harrisburg
717-409-8975; xlhbg.com

Jan. 16: DEFIANT
Jan. 17: Appetite For Destruction
Jan. 23: Reilly and the Pick ‘Em Ups, Seneca & Slick Willie
Jan. 29: Tom Hamilton
Jan. 30: Badfish, Beach Fly

The Stage Door

Appell Center for the Performing Arts
50 N. George St., York
717-846-1111; appellcenter.org

Jan. 8: The Outlet—Music & Poetry Open Mic
Jan. 17, 18, 25: “King Lear” presented by OrangeMite Shakespeare Company
Jan. 31: Doktor Kaboom—Under Pressure!

Carlisle Theatre
44 West High St., Carlisle
717-258-0666; carlisletheatre.org

Jan. 2-3: “An Inspector Calls”

Dutch Apple Dinner Theatre
510 Centerville Rd., Lancaster
717-898-1900; DutchApple.com

Jan. 9-Feb. 7: “Clue the Musical”

Gamut Theatre Group
15 N. 4th St., Harrisburg
717-238-4111; gamuttheatre.org

Jan. 14-31: Popcorn Hat Players present “The Snow Queen”
Jan. 16-18: “Edward III”
Jan. 23-25: “Hamlet”
Jan. 30: TMI Improv

Harrisburg Christian Performing Arts Center (HCPAC)
1000 S. Eisenhower Blvd, Middletown
717-939-9333; thehcpac.org

Jan. 23-25: “Finding Nemo Jr.”

Harrisburg Comedy Zone
110 Limekiln Rd., New Cumberland
717-920-5653; harrisburgcomedyzone.com

Jan. 2, 3: Kevin Lee
Jan. 9, 10: Jay Nog and Mike Keegan
Jan. 16, 17: Mark Gregory and Granville Bazemore
Jan. 23, 24: Josh Phillips

Harrisburg Improv Theatre
1633 N. 3rd St., Harrisburg
hbgimprov.com

Jan. 9, 11: Level 1—Intro to Improv Class Graduation Show

Little Theatre of Mechanicsburg
915 S. York St., Mechanicsburg
717-766-0535; ltmpa.com

Jan. 15-Feb. 1: “Death of a Salesman”

Majestic Theater
25 Carlisle St., Gettysburg
717-337-8200; gettysburgmajestic.org

Jan. 16: “Dancing with the Local Stars”

Open Stage of Harrisburg
223 Walnut St., Harrisburg
717-232-OPEN; openstagehbg.com

Jan. 8-11: “Beetlejuice Jr.”
Jan. 16: EFF Live!
Jan. 25: Court Street Cabaret

Oyster Mill Playhouse
1001 Oyster Mill Rd., Camp Hill
717-737-6768; oystermill.com

Jan. 9-26: Agatha Christie’s Rule of Thumb

West Shore Theatre
317 Bridge St., New Cumberland
717-759-5464; westshoretheatre.org

Jan. 25: The Magic of John Westford

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An Agonizing Call: “The Voice of Hind Rajab” is a tough, harrowing but necessary film to see

December 30, 2025 | by Gabriel Brown

Photo courtesy of WILLA.

Few films evoke the justified buzz of Kaouther Ben Hania’s Golden Globe-nominated docudrama, “The Voice of Hind Rajab.”

The film broke records at the Venice Film Festival this year, where it won the Grand Jury Prize, and its 23-minute standing ovation became the longest ever recorded at a film festival.

Hind Rajab was a 5-year-old Palestinian girl driving through the Tel al-Hawa neighborhood in Gaza with her uncle, aunt and three cousins when the Israeli Defense Forces attacked their car, killing everyone but her. She called the emergency services, staying on the phone with them for hours, until the military killed her too.

The centerpiece of the film is the original recorded audio of Hind’s call, recovered from the Red Crescent database for the cast, playing emergency call center operators, to act alongside. In this film, you are listening to the voice of a 5-year-old child at her most desperate and alone, on the day of her murder—one of tens of thousands who’ve died in the war.

As much as they want to, no one in the call center is able to physically help Hind, and the frustration as they deal with the Israeli military’s red tape to confirm a safe route for their rescuers turns to suspense, to hope, and then to dread. This feeling of desperate helplessness is stomach-churning, as the callers watch and listen to the senseless violence from a distance. There’s nothing they can do.

It feels reductive to address a film like this on a technical level, but this film knows exactly what it is, and the weight of its truth. It doesn’t try to reinvent the wheel, instead executing technical skill on a very high level to reinforce the story.

Ben Hania employs a cinema verité style that relies heavily on close-ups, delicate focus adjustments, and handheld camerawork to capture the claustrophobic and frenetic drama of the film. In particular, the visual motif of the soundwave of Hind’s call conjuring the lifeline on a heart monitor continues to cross my mind—an extremely effective and simple way to showcase the immediacy of the situation.

“The Voice of Hind Rajab” is not a call to action, but rather a cry out in darkness. There is evil and injustice in this world, but beyond helping where and how we can, sometimes all we can do is turn our gaze to see its reflection in our eyes. Do not avert your eyes. Do not miss this film.

“The Voice of Hind Rajab” opens at Midtown Cinema in early 2026.

January Events
at Midtown Cinema

Down in Front!
Comedy riffing
“Rocketship X-M” (1950)
Friday, Jan. 9, 9:30ish

3rd in the Burg Movie Night
“Nacho Libre” (2006)
Friday, Jan. 16, 9:30 p.m.

Saturday Morning Cartoon
“My Neighbor Totoro” (1988)
Saturday, Jan. 17, 11 a.m.

Late Night Frights
“Videodrome” (1983)
Friday, Jan. 23, 9:30 p.m.

Midtown Cinema is located at 250 Reily St., Harrisburg. For more information, visit www.midtowncinema.com. Gabriel Brown serves as assistant manager at Midtown Cinema.

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A Manor of Speaking: Mechanicsburg couple preserves, transforms “tower home” for guest stays

December 30, 2025 | by Molly Pavlovich

Noah and Hannah Snyder have a one-day dream to own all the tower homes in Mechanicsburg’s Tower Hill neighborhood—preserving history and the charm of a bygone era. But for now, they’ll happily settle for two.

They reside in one of the tower homes, and this past July, when the house next door went up for sale, they purchased it with a clear vision in mind—to share its storied existence with others as a short-term stay destination, Market Street Manor.

“There are so many people who are passionate about preserving the history of this town, and I think they’re excited to see that there are some younger people who care and want to be part of it as well,” Noah said. “The future is important, but a lot of things about the past are important too. They make up what the town is.”

This 3,000-square-foot, four-bedroom, 2½ -bathroom home was the first tower home built in Mechanicsburg in 1890. It began as a midwifery where many locals at the time were born. In the early 1900s, it became a jelly factory until sugar rationing in World War II limited its operations. Then, it was owned by the family of the late Floyd L. and Jean (Jones) Hartung from the 1950s until its most recent sale last year.

In its foyer, news clippings and time-worn photos climb the wall—a thoughtfully curated gallery that preserves the layers of life that were lived in this place.

“I grew up in Victorian homes. My grandma owned the Victorian home next to Rakestraw’s ice cream, so I have a huge heart for them,” Hannah said. “It bothers me when people buy Victorians and try to modernize them. It’s been important to us that things stay as period correct as they can be here so that the history can live on.”

Tastefully eclectic wallpaper and bold colors adorn many of the manor’s walls, drawing the eye from room to room. One room, named after Hannah’s late grandma, Carol, features an heirloom rug and stained-glass window from her home. A statement piece, a mahogany and mother of pearl inlay pool table, claims attention in another. Up the winding stairs, you can find a vintage clawfoot tub, and tucked in the tower, a cozy reading nook.

“Hannah spent hours building out rooms before we even had furniture,” Noah said. “This has been a huge passion project for us.”

The duo did all the renovating and decorating themselves—spending the slices of spare time they had when not running their other Mechanicsburg-based business, Ark Fitness, antiquing for the perfect pieces and bringing newfound life to the space. Their meticulous work in weaving Market Street Manor into the building’s story has drawn in both curious locals and delighted guests.

“When we bought this place and shared our plans for it, so many people were like, ‘Who is going to want to stay in Mechanicsburg?’ But since we welcomed our first guests in October, we’ve been super excited and grateful to have our books fill up with stays as quickly as they have,” Hannah said.

For one group of guests, Market Street Manor was a resting place following long days hiking the Appalachian Trail. For another, it served as a waypoint on their cross-country road trip. Others plan to stay when they’re visiting family or friends for upcoming special occasions. Many, however, have landed a night or two at the old Victorian simply to enjoy the historic charm of this place where memories linger and new ones have room to grow.

“They’re the future of Mechanicsburg,” said Carol Palinkas, vice president of the Mechanicsburg Museum Association. “It takes visionary people to keep history alive while still embracing progress, and that’s exactly what Hannah and Noah are doing. I’m certain there’s much more ahead for them—maybe more tower homes, maybe something entirely new. Whatever it is, I can’t wait to see what they do next.”

Market Street Manor is located at 401 S. Market St., Mechanicsburg. For more information, visit www.marketstreetmanor.com.

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Are You Lonesome Tonight? An expert offers insights, tips on combatting the plague of loneliness

December 30, 2025 | by Alexandra Jones

Loneliness: it’s on the rise across the country—but how can we better combat it in Harrisburg?

John Dattilo, a professor emeritus at Penn State University, has some ideas—and says finding ways to ward off lonely feelings can result in becoming healthier not just physically, but mentally and emotionally, too.

Dattilo has spent his academic career researching the relationship between leisure, meaningful activities and reduced loneliness and spoke to us about the best actions people can take to decrease loneliness and be healthier as a result.

Could you talk a little bit about what loneliness actually is? I know in some of your research, you’ve implied it was a discrepancy between desired and actual social relationships—is that right?

Yes, that is correct. Loneliness is a feeling and experience that people have that can happen across contexts. There are many people who spend time alone that aren’t lonely, and there are many people that spend time with other people that are lonely. It results from the lack of making connections with other human beings and living creatures.

How does care and assistance from friends, family, neighbors play into that?

Social support is extremely important with loneliness. Typically, the higher you have those kinds of connections, the more likely you are not to feel lonely and to be happy.

Isolation is the reduction of contact with other people. The more you have of that, the more likely you are to feel lonely, and that’s why people who are restricted to their homes, who don’t have a lot of friends, who don’t have family nearby, are much more prone to loneliness.

Is there a recommended dose, per se, of how much social interaction somebody might need?

I don’t know of that in particular, but I do know pretty much across the board, when people talk about healthy lives, and specifically healthy aging, that the component that comes up to the top is social engagement.

Could you explain why people who are more socially connected have better health outcomes overall and a lower risk of mortality?

Research that has occurred in the last 30 years or so really identifies the connections between positive feelings, positive affect and longevity, quality of life. As people engage socially, they typically report they have a positive social life and that then contributes to a person’s positive quality of life. That influences their health.

You research leisure. What are examples of good and bad activities for free time that might increase or decrease loneliness?

Our research is associated with people’s leisure. What I’m talking about is an experience that comes from being involved in meaningful activities that give us a sense of purpose, that allow us to be authentic, that allow us to express ourselves, to develop a sense of identity and to experience positive emotions that contribute to our development.

The positive emotions could be enjoyment. When we talk about enjoyment, the idea of enjoyment occurs when our skills match the challenge that we’re experiencing. If they don’t, if we have high skills and low challenge, we’re going to be bored. If we have low skills and high challenge, we’re going to be very frustrated and anxious.

But if our skills match the challenge, where it may be just slightly higher to push us, we have to be focused. As a result, we lose track of time. What we found in our research is there is a correlation between happiness, being involved in experiencing leisure—which is associated with the experience of flow—and lower reports of loneliness.

So, being connected to other people is not the only solution for loneliness?

That is an important thing to focus on. It’s logical, right? Social support is very important. Doing activities with friends and families is critical. But in addition, we found this during COVID—when people were able to experience flow, they felt less lonely.

So, when people are alone, they can reduce their sense of loneliness if they are engaged in activities that bring them joy.

What kinds of activities might trigger flow?

The activity, in and of itself, isn’t really that relevant. What is important is what that activity does for them.

Someone who enjoys reading and is a good reader—they can get lost in a book. They feel like they’ve connected to people in that book, and that is something that can result in positive emotions and happiness and also then be correlated with lower reports of loneliness. That’s just an example. Not all people will experience leisure when they read. If they’re distracted, as opposed to engaged, they’re not going to experience leisure.

It’s pretty common to use technology to de-stress. Do these kinds of activities end up working with or against people’s health?

It’s really how it’s used rather than the technology itself. With social media, using TikTok as an example, people often flip through those vignettes and they’re more amused rather than connected. Entertained for an hour, two hours, three hours, and then they’re done.

They’re not reflecting on their life. They just numb themselves. If something is detrimental to you, we don’t consider that leisure. That becomes something that’s detrimental to your health. Anything you use to numb yourself is going to be problematic because that takes you away from spending time in reflection—and if we contemplate and think about our lives, we’re much more likely than to use our lives in ways that bring us happiness and joy.

So, the key is crafting intentionality into your day?

Exactly. Some people enjoy being in nature, so if they go for a walk in a park, they are uplifted. If they do it with a person that they care about, like when I hike with my wife, it even empowers it even more. Doing an activity that you enjoy with other people, it just starts stacking the deck in your favor to be happy and then decrease loneliness.

If you engage in activities that are positive for you and others, and if you share those activities with other people, you’re much more likely to flourish. It goes beyond just being happy into sharing that happiness with other people.

This Q&A has been edited for clarity, length and style.

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Community Corner: Notable January Events

December 30, 2025 | by Missy Smith

Penguin Plunge
Jan. 1: Take a plunge into the Susquehanna River to welcome the New Year with hundreds of Humane Society of Harrisburg supporters. The 29th annual event begins at 10 a.m. at City Island beach in Harrisburg with the plunge taking place at noon. Enjoy drinks, food, raffles, music, games and more. www.humanesocietyhbg.org

Photo Display
Jan. 1-23: View photographs entered in Friends of Wildwood Park’s annual contest in the Olewine Nature Center, 100 Wildwood Way, Harrisburg. Vote for your favorite photos. Winners will be announced at a reception on Dec. 14 at 1 p.m., and People’s Choice Award winners will be named at the show’s conclusion. www.explorewildwoodpark.org

Teens Tech
Jan. 1, 8, 15, 22, 29: Fredricksen Library, 100 N. 19th St., Camp Hill, hosts “Teens Teaching Tech,” a pilot program that connects local students with adult patrons who seek support using today’s technology. Students will provide friendly, one-on-one assistance with digital devices in an open-house format from 4 to 5 p.m. www.fredricksenlibrary.org

Winter Discovery
Jan. 2-30: Visit the Olewine Nature Center at Wildwood Park, 100 Wildwood Way, Harrisburg, to see special exhibits and activities that highlight some of Wildwood’s animals in winter, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Follow self-guided signs along the Towpath Trail and learn the natural history of the park and animals in winter. www.explorewildwoodpark.org

HBG Flea
Jan. 3: Explore the HBG Flea for local art, vintage treasures, curated curios and unique gifts, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., in Strawberry Square, 320 Market St., Harrisburg. The mission of the HBG Flea is to create a platform for community growth by bringing artists, small businesses and patrons together. www.hbgflea.com

Book Sale
Jan. 3, 17: Friends of the New Cumberland Public Library, 1 Benjamin Plaza, hosts pre-owned book sales on the first and third Saturdays, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. in Foundation House, across the shared parking lot from the library. Shop for books, vintage items, jewelry, DVDs and CDs, kids’ books, vinyl and more. www.cumberlandcountylibraries.org

Wellness Walk
Jan. 6: Take a moderate walk led by a volunteer at Wildwood Park, 100 Wildwood Way, Harrisburg, to see the park’s trees and animals, 1 to 2:30 p.m. This will be a walk on paved, gravel and dirt surfaces. Walks will be cancelled if the weather is inclement or if there is snow or ice on the trail. Pre-registration is required. www.explorewildwoodpark.org

Calm the Mind
Jan. 8, 15, 22, 29: Start the New Year learning short, easy 15-minute calming meditations at Fredricksen Library, 100 N. 19th St., Camp Hill, on Thursdays, 12 to 12:30 p.m. www.fredricksenlibrary.org

Fredricksen Knits
Jan. 8, 15, 22, 29: Meet up with other enthusiasts for an afternoon of knitting in an atmosphere of congeniality and inspiration at Fredricksen Library, 100 N. 19th St., Camp Hill, on Thursdays, 1 to 4 p.m. Bring your project and see how much progress you can make. No registration necessary. www.fredricksenlibrary.org

Contra Dance
Jan. 9: Harrisburg Area Contra Dance Association hosts a 2nd Friday Contra Dance with live music, 8 to 10:30 p.m., at Silver Spring Presbyterian Church, 444 Silver Spring Rd., Mechanicsburg. There will be a free beginner lesson at 7:30 p.m. No partner is needed. www.harrisburgcontra.org

Curiosity Kids
Jan. 9, 23: Kids ages 3 to 6 are invited to the State Museum of Pa., 300 North St., Harrisburg, to learn about crayons on Jan. 9 and 1970s and magnetism on Jan. 23, 11:30 a.m. to 12 p.m. Curiosity Kids events are included with general admission. www.statemuseumpa.org

Birds & Coffee
Jan. 10: Stop by the Nature Center at Wildwood Park, 100 Wildwood Way, Harrisburg, for a cup of coffee, tea or hot cocoa, 10 to 11 a.m. Join a naturalist and Appalachian Audubon to observe and count common feeder birds as part of Project FeederWatch. www.explorewildwoodpark.org

LGBTQ+ Book Club
Jan. 10: Join Dauphin County Library System to discuss LGBTQ+ books in sci-fi, contemporary, romance and YA genres, and more, at the LGBT Center of Central PA, 1323 N. Front St., Harrisburg, 11 a.m. to 12 p.m. For attendees aged 18 years and older. www.dcls.org

Farm Show
Jan. 10-17: Head to the PA Farm Show to milk a cow, enjoy a Farm Show milkshake, learn about science and skills used in agriculture and discover new events and features at the PA Farm Show Complex and Expo Center, N. Cameron and Maclay streets, Harrisburg. www.pa.gov/agencies/farmshow/pa-farm-show

Civil War Dance
Jan. 11: Take the whole family to a free Civil War-era dance class at the National Civil War Museum, 1 Lincoln Circle, Harrisburg, 2 to 4 p.m. [email protected]

Sip and Speak
Jan. 15: Sip tea and talk life, especially how we persevere, find hope and define ourselves through it all, at the East Shore Area Library, 4501 Ethel St., Harrisburg, 3 to 4:30 p.m. This book club features non-fiction titles with themes of pain, loss, love, strength and triumph. Light refreshments will be served. www.dcls.org

3rd in The Burg
Jan. 16: Explore the best of Harrisburg during 3rd in the Burg, the monthly arts and culture event, where you can visit and enjoy galleries, restaurants and art spaces throughout downtown and Midtown, 6 to 9 p.m. www.thirdintheburg.org

Minds Matter Harrisburg
Jan. 17: Join the East Shore Area Library, 4501 Ethel St., Harrisburg, for The BGH Foundation for Minds Matter Harrisburg—an inclusive workshop series celebrating the resilience, strength and brilliance of women and girls on their mental health and wellness journeys, 11 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. www.mindsmatter.bghf.org

Franklin Inventions
Jan. 17: Explore the innovations created by Benjamin Franklin at the State Museum of PA, 300 North St., Harrisburg, 11:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. Test these innovations that were used to improve people’s lives and create your own copy of the Pennsylvania Gazette. Family programs are included with general admission. www.statemuseumpa.org

CPR Course
Jan. 17: Fredricksen Library, 100 N. 19th St., Camp Hill, hosts a CPR Heart Saver course for those who want to be prepared for an emergency or need a course completion card for job, regulatory or other requirements, 1 to 4:30 p.m. Space is limited to six adults. Cost is $55. To register, call Melinda Shultz at 717-761-3900, ext. 242. www.fredricksenlibrary.org

Dance Night
Jan. 18: Harrisburg USA Dance Chapter #3009 invites dance enthusiasts to a Nightclub 2-Step lesson at 2 p.m., followed by three hours of social dancing, at PA DanceSport, 585 E. Main St., Hummelstown. All levels are welcome. Admission is $15, $10 for members and $5 for students. Facebook: USA Dance Chapter #3009 Harrisburg Area PA

Library Cinema
Jan. 18: Escape the winter chill and enjoy a free movie at East Shore Area Library, 4501 Ethel St., Harrisburg, 3 to 5 p.m. Enjoy popcorn, snacks and the classic film, “The Sound of Music.” Space is limited, so register today at the library’s website. www.dcls.org

MLK Service Day
Jan. 19: Save the date for the annual Central PA MLK Day of Service, with projects taking place throughout the Harrisburg area. Visit the Central PA MLK Day of Service website for details about the opening ceremony and this year’s events. www.mlk-365.org

Evening Mixer
Jan. 20: Join West Shore Chamber of Commerce for a networking mixer at Healthy You Cafe 4500 Marketplace Way, Enola, 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. This free event is open to chamber members. Potential members are welcome to attend. www.wschamber.org

Let It Snow!
Jan. 21: Find out how a snowflake forms, how the museum makes snow in the museum dioramas and create snowflake art at the State Museum of PA, 300 North St., Harrisburg, at 11:30 a.m. Family programs are included with general admission and designed for all ages. www.statemuseumpa.org

Terrarium Workshop
Jan. 24: Craft your own terrarium with low maintenance succulents and provided substrates, plants and decor at William H. & Marion C. Alexander Family Library, 200 W. 2nd St., Hummelstown, 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Bring your own container. Registration is required. www.dcls.org

Craftivism
Jan. 24: Fredricksen Library, 100 N. 19th St., Camp Hill, hosts Book Dragon Club—Craftivism for teens ages 13 to 18 to discuss civic engagement and empowerment, 1:30 to 2:30 p.m. Attendees will then create something to express their own cause. Registration is required and begins one month prior to each session. www.fredricksenlibrary.org

Burns Night
Jan. 24: Scottish Society of Central Pennsylvania hosts the 70th Annual Burns Night Supper, a celebration of the life, poetry and music of the Scottish bard at Penn Harris Hotel, 1150 Camp Hill Bypass. A social hour begins at 5 p.m., followed by dinner at 6 p.m. www.pennscots.org

Adult Coloring
Jan. 27: Guests 18 years and older are invited to spend a soothing afternoon getting creative with fellow coloring enthusiasts at the Madeline L. Olewine Memorial Library, 2410 N. 3rd St., Harrisburg, 3:30 to 4:30 p.m. All materials will be provided, but you are welcome to bring your own supplies. Registration is not required. www.dcls.org

Lecture Series
Jan. 27: Friends of Wildwood hosts the first lecture in its 2026 Winter Lecture Series, “Intro to Homesteading: Start Where You Are,” at Wildwood Park, 100 Wildwood Way, Harrisburg, 7 to 8:30 p.m. Learn why you should homestead and how to create a garden in 400 square feet. Pre-registration is required. www.explorewildwoodpark.org

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Health Plan: With a new long-term strategy, Harrisburg Area YMCA shoots, scores for stronger people, communities

December 30, 2025 | by M. Diane McCormick

A water bottle filling station.

That’s what David Botero wants to see at the East Shore YMCA for his Hope in Handball students. The old-style water fountain just doesn’t cut it for thirsty teens.

“There’s a lot of slurping,” he said.

The Harrisburg Area YMCA—the nation’s eighth oldest, founded in 1854—is entering its 172nd year with a strategic plan focused on community impact while its branches get facelifts for the 21st century.

The strategic plan is “based on real needs in the community,” meant to offer hope in an unraveling world, said President & CEO David Ozmore.

“We want everyone to thrive,” he said. “That’s spirit, mind and physically and mentally. And then, everyone belongs. We want people to feel welcome.”

In the Plan

Ozmore took the reins in 2022, with goals to deepen YMCA partnerships and lead strategic planning.

The plan emerged from long staff meetings airing organizational strengths and weaknesses. The board spent hours parsing a nine-word vision statement: “To strengthen communities where hope thrives and everyone belongs.”

The process yielded “Thrive Together: A Vision of Hope and Belonging,” a plan built on safety, security, hope and belonging.

The plan’s four pillars include fostering welcoming environments; inspiring and empowering youth; creating community environments where spaces are accessible and within reach of the full community; and expanding health equity with programs that address disparities.

Watch for signs of progress as programs grow and refine in coming years in accordance with the plan.

Supportive environments will nurture the educational, social and emotional development of infants, young children and teens. Senior adults will find respite from isolation, according to the plan.

There will be modernized spaces, behavioral health supports, and virtual health programs. More money will be raised, and endowment funds will be distributed as financial aid. There will be enhanced leadership, staff and volunteer training.

The plan also includes partnerships—lots of partnerships. Interlocked community organizations can fill the gaps in lives where one of the four pillars is crumbling, said Ozmore.

“Imagine a kid who’s coming to us from a dysfunctional family, but the church rallies, the community rallies, the school rallies,” he said. “We can still support the development of that child until the fourth pillar rebuilds itself.”

Partnership Power

Dr. Sabina Grant-Spencer, early childhood director for Harrisburg School District, reached out to the YMCA for academic and social support for Harrisburg schoolchildren and for early childhood education for their families, including the infant care that helps parents keep their jobs.

“As a parent, you want to know you’re coming into a safe place, where your kids are going to learn and enjoy being here, and that’s something we established at the Camp Curtin Y,” she said.

As the plan unfolds, Grant-Spencer envisions more mentoring and initiatives that teach organizational skills and promote career learning. To overcome transportation barriers, the Y could deliver afterschool programming to children in their own schools.

Through the partnership, the Y released endowment funds to finance memberships for 200 of the district’s displaced families, giving students a place where “they know they’re going to fit in wherever they go, and a parent knows that they’re going to be safe,” she said. “And they make friends.”

Sometimes, the Y is “just the facilitator,” said Ozmore—as in, offering the Harrisburg Area Food Pantry a home at the Camp Curtin YMCA in Uptown Harrisburg since early 2024.

As food insecurity surged, the pantry struggled with space constraints, said Executive Director Deidre Lenker. Since moving to Camp Curtin, they are “blowing our records out of the water.”

“We could not have done that with the physical layout of our own facility,” she said.

Clients from urban and rural food deserts easily find Camp Curtin for its familiar location, parking and accessibility.

“We’re thrilled to be a part of this organization and be able to serve as many people as we are serving,” she said. “And we get great support.”

Battling the isolation of older adults took its place in the strategic plan because they were the first group to resume Y membership after COVID.

“They missed their friends,” said Ozmore. “The Y is a tremendous social organization for connection and belonging.”

The Y could expand partnerships that help area senior centers offer more exercise classes to their members.

“Could we partner with a senior center that only runs two or three classes a day?” Ozmore said. “Could we help to manage and give them resources to run senior programs at other times of the day?”

Since Botero and Sally Snyder co-founded Hope in Handball in 2009, it has operated at the East Shore Y in Harrisburg. The program unites adult volunteers from a range of professions with middle and high school students for tutoring, mentoring, character development and, of course, handball. Students travel for tournaments, learn sportsmanship and meet new people—“that’s code for networking,” said Botero.

The historic, circa-1933 East Shore Y has been “gracious enough” to host Hope in Handball, provide students with YMCA memberships, help them through family emergencies, and invite them to events featuring the Harrisburg mayor and Pennsylvania governor, said Snyder.

Many Hope in Handball alums have gone on to their own careers, including a new dad working in finance and, now, mentoring today’s players.

As the YMCA implements its strategic plan and upgrades, Botero hopes for his water-bottle filling station, and Snyder would love to see the Y offer students volunteer and job opportunities.

“We’re a community, and we’re a family there,” she said. “It’s beautiful to have that space where we can walk the steps to that handball court. It’s such a special space. We have pictures on the walls and tournament winners posted, and we can walk down memory lane. The kids can see where they were 15 years ago, and now, they’re one of the leaders.”

Physical Changes

Throughout the YMCA network, multi-million-dollar renovations are completed, underway or on the drawing board. Branches are slated for HVAC upgrades, modernized amenities, state-of-the-art child care facilities, and inclusion of gender-neutral changing spaces in the locker rooms to accommodate individuals and families who need privacy.

Construction began on Camp Curtin’s $1.1 million project this fall, with a teen center, recording studio, and—for the first time—air conditioning in the 60-year-old building.

At the East Shore Y, the 86-bed residential upper floors serve people who “need a clean, safe place to stay,” said Ozmore, but supports are limited.

“How do we lift these folks up?” he said. “How do we provide food security? How do we make them ready to handle their own finances? How do we get them to lift themselves out of their current position and really be a flourishing member of society again?”

To answer those questions, the Y is negotiating with a potential partner to provide transitional services and leverage its resources, plus available public funding and seed capital from the Y, into a “big facelift” for the residence area.

That facelift—phase one of a $10 million, three- to five-year renovation of the entire building—would upgrade kitchen, shower and rooms, “giving the amenities a nicer glow,” said Ozmore. For accessibility, an elevator would be installed in what is now a five-story walkup.

The goal is a space and services that help residents achieve independence, said board chair and capital campaign co-chair Jim Mooney.

“It’s a way to lift people out of their current position in a big way,” he said.

When work on the residence is complete, the East Shore Y’s public side will follow, with a new roof, HVAC and “general maintenance for a nearly 100-year-old building,” said Mooney. The pool, lobby, gym and locker rooms will undergo makeovers, not yet designed.

“The general public would walk into a 21st century YMCA,” said Ozmore, adding that the expanse of construction “ties into community. It’s not just that we’re building beautiful buildings, but we’re building beautiful buildings for a reason.”

Sticking Around

In the future envisioned in Harrisburg Area YMCA’s strategic plan, the scattered branches and staff are more unified, finances continue to strengthen, and collaborations instigate growth throughout the community, said Ozmore. It culminates in “safety and hope.”

Food insecurity took the spotlight during “the craziness” of the 2025 government shutdown, said Lenker, and that makes way for the Harrisburg Area Food Pantry to grow along with the Y.

“We are getting donors and volunteers coming left and right, so we have a lot of hope for a lot of things that will make us even more effective,” she said.

Ozmore sees promise in the diversity and joy of Y events, the camaraderie of older adults, and the cheer that fills the East Shore Y lobby, “the heartbeat of our community.”

“That’s why we’ve survived for over 100 years,” he said. “Not many organizations have been around for 171 years, but because we’re embedded in the community, that’s our magic.”

For more information on the Harrisburg Area YMCA, visit www.ymcaharrisburg.org. Read the YMCA’s strategic plan at www.ymcaharrisburg.org/strategic-plan.

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January Publisher’s Note

December 30, 2025 | by Lawrance Binda

On an icy, cold evening, 17 years ago, we delivered the very first issue of TheBurg.

It was January 2009, and I remember driving around the area, dropping off copies of a publication that no one had heard of before.

We had no idea what would happen next. Would we be accepted? Could we get advertisers? Would we even make it a year?

Well, the road hasn’t been easy but here we are: four city mayors, three U.S. presidents, two recessions and one pandemic later. We even managed to survive the virtual collapse of the local newspaper industry.

No small feat.

But, as my staff likes to remind me, TheBurg has not only survived but thrived. Along the way, we began covering daily news, hosting events, adding features and winning over 200 press, business and community awards.

And now it’s time to look ahead. So, what does 2026 hold for TheBurg?

We just hired another reporter, so we’d like to dig down deeper in our local news coverage. Magazine-wise, we hope to increase our page count, add content, expand our distribution area and print more issues (demand routinely exceeds supply).

Of course, this all will depend on what we can afford to do, as we always plow our earnings back into our business. So, if you’d like to help us meet our goals, please become an advertiser, a sponsor, a supporter or even a Friend of TheBurg.

And, with that, welcome to our January issue, focused on health and wellness. We expect you’ll find some fun, interesting and novel ideas to help kick off the new year in the best way possible.

Speaking of healthy: each month, we strive to add to the health of our community, hoping to make it a little better story by story, event by event, issue by issue. Over 17 years, that’s one thing that hasn’t changed.

Lawrance Binda

Publisher/Editor

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SusqueCycle ridership up this year, 41% of rides from City Island

December 19, 2025 | by Alexandra Jones

SusqueCycle bikes sit in a rack.

SusqueCycle saw a significant increase in ridership this year.

At the Harrisburg Area Transportation Study’s last meeting of the year Friday, the Tri-County Regional Planning Commission provided an update on the Harrisburg-based bike share program, which boasted more than 3,321 rides this year.

This is up from 2,993 rides in 2024.

“We basically have no funding for advertising, so this is being done by word-of-mouth and by people just getting to know the bikes around the region,” said Transportation & Community Planner Karen Dixon at the meeting. “Without having any advertising, and with still showing growth, that shows we actually have a need for this kind of transportation in our area.”

Of SusqueCycle’s 2025 rides, 41% were from the City Island station.

Behind this, the stations with the most rides were State Street (16%), Market Square (11%), and the Broad Street Market (10%).

Together, the remaining stations accounted for the other 22% of rides.

According to Dixon, half of the SusqueCycle fleet went into hibernation on Dec. 1 and the other half were put at the top seven performing sites.

“Due to reduced usage in the winter,” she explained.

According to Dixon, PennDOT has approved three new rack locations that will go in around March. They will go along Italian Lake at the Jewish Community Center, at Fort Hunter, and along the Greenbelt near Paxton Parkway.

SusqueCycle, which is operated by Tandem Mobility and administered by Tri-County Regional Planning Commission, is in its third season. It has 10 stations in Harrisburg and one in Hummelstown.

For more information about SusqueCycle’s numbers, view today’s HATS meeting information packet.

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