Owners of Governor’s Square apartments will seek to have court-appointed receiver take control

Governor’s Square apartments

A beleaguered affordable housing development in Harrisburg still doesn’t have a buyer, but has a plan to move a step forward.

Uptown Partners, the owner of the Residences at Governor’s Square, plans to file a motion to change the type of bankruptcy it’s in and to transfer responsibility of the property to a court-appointed receiver.

Uptown Partners filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy, having converted from Chapter 7, in August 2023 and, since then, has tried to find a buyer for its properties, which have hundreds of code citations and condemnations. However, the owners have struggled for months to find a buyer that met their requirements and that has received U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) approval, a requirement for a potential buyer.

At a hearing in the U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the Middle District of Pennsylvania on Tuesday, attorneys for Uptown Partners said that they reached an agreement with most parties on the case, including the city, to move towards having the Dauphin County Court of Common Pleas appoint a receiver to take over the case.

Uptown Partners first plans to file a motion to convert its Chapter 11 bankruptcy case back to Chapter 7, according to Robert Chernicoff, attorney for Uptown Partners. Typically, in Chapter 7 bankruptcy, a U.S. trustee is assigned to the case and the debtor’s assets are liquidated. However, in this case, Chernicoff said that a U.S. trustee would likely play a minimal role, and the debtor would remain in Chapter 7 only briefly. Then the county court would appoint a receiver to oversee Governor’s Square.

The receiver would also be responsible for appointing a management company and finding funds, such as state or federal grants, to keep the property operational, Chernicoff said. The current property manager, Landex Management, previously filed a motion to terminate its contract with Uptown Partners, with representatives explaining that they did not have sufficient funds to continue services. The decision on who to hire to manage the property would be up to the receiver.

Essentially, Uptown Partners would still own Governor’s Square, but would not have control over it, Chernicoff explained. He has shared previously that Uptown Partners was running out of money to maintain the property.

“My client doesn’t want the property anymore,” Chernicoff said.

If a receiver takes over control, they would be tasked with overseeing the operations of the property and with finding a buyer.

Governor’s Square consists of over 200 units, though fewer than half are currently occupied.

According to Chernicoff, Uptown Partners has recently received interest from another company, CIG Properties, information that it plans to pass along to a potential receiver.

At Tuesday’s hearing, Bankruptcy Chief Judge Henry Van Eck ruled several outstanding matters settled, including a motion to dismiss the case filed by the city, agreeing on the parties’ plan to move the issue forward.

Chernicoff said that the city agreed to issue code citations on Governor’s Square properties only until they’re under receivership. According to City Solicitor Neil Grover, Uptown Partners has received over 1,400 violations.

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The Week that Was: News and features around Harrisburg

Dauphin County Court of Common Pleas Judge William Tully swore in the Harrisburg School District’s new superintendent Dr. Benjamin Henry, who was joined by his family.

What a great sunny, fall week here in Harrisburg. Take this weekend to stroll around the city, shop local, enjoy river views and, of course, catch up on your Burg reading. You can start with all of our recent reporting, below.

Allen Theatre in Annville, which has decades of history, is now under new ownership, our magazine story reported. The theater and its new accompanying Salamander Bookstore offer movies, live music and magic shows.

Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Capital Region announced that it will expand its service area to include its York and Adams county affiliate, our online story reported. The organization will also rebrand at Big Brothers Big Sisters of South-Central PA.

The Broad Street Market announced that two new vegan vendors would join its stone building, our online story reported. Harrisburg-based Honey Bear Ice Cream and Ve’Lightfully Vegan will open in the market in the coming weeks.

Capital Blue Cross warns the community that measles and whooping cough cases are rising nationwide. Click here, to find out more about the viruses.

Dennise Hill recently became the executive director of Brethren Housing Association, which provides housing to single mothers and children, our magazine story reported. Hill left her city government director position to follow her passion and return to the nonprofit world.

Harrisburg School District swore in its new superintendent, Dr. Benjamin Henry, at a board meeting this week, our online story reported. Also that evening, the district approved the resignation of the John Harris High School principal.

Mayor Wanda Williams announced Samuel Sulkosky as her new business administrator, filling a position that sat vacant for several months, our online story reported. Sulkosky served in borough and city manager positions over the last several years, most recently as the interim borough manager of Punxsutawney.

Pennsylvania Lt. Gov. Austin Davis held a press conference at the LGBT Center of Central PA to announce the recipients of a state safety grant, our online story reported. The LGBT Center, as well as community organizations and places of worship, were awarded money for safety improvements in light of a rise in hate crimes nationally.

Pittsburgh is the perfect place for a fall trip, offering delicious cuisine, museums and a conservatory, among other features. Click here, for recommendations.

Sara Bozich has the hookup for fun fall events this weekend. Click here for the list.

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Regional Big Brothers Big Sisters expands service area to additional counties, rebrands

A local mentorship organization is expanding its reach.

Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Capital Region announced on Thursday that it has acquired its York and Adams County affiliate and will change its name to Big Brothers Big Sisters of South-Central PA.

“We are now serving 7 out of 8 counties in the South-Central PA region,” President and CEO Amy Rote said in a statement. “Our new name aims to enhance our visibility and strengthen our connection with the community.”

According to Rote, the expansion will allow the organization to assist the York and Adams affiliate in growing its services and programs to address the needs of youth. BBBS of South-Central PA will bring its established programs to its new counties.

Through Big Brothers Big Sisters’ programs, they provide guidance, encouragement and positive role models for area youth.

The York office will continue to serve the two counties in a new location on Market Street in York. The organization cut the ribbon on the space this week.

“Our new office space is better suited for our growing team and expansion of our services,” said Marina Brown, director of the York & Adams County program.

Additionally, BBBS of South-Central PA will update its logo, website and marketing materials over the next few months.

BBBS of South-Central PA is seeking additional volunteers, partners and supporters to help with its now-expanded services. Those who are interested can visit their website.

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Broad Street Market to welcome new vegan ice cream, soul food vendors

Honey Bear Ice Cream. File photo.

Two vegan food vendors are setting up shop in Harrisburg.

The Broad Street Market announced on Thursday that local businesses Honey Bear Ice Cream and Ve’Lightfully Vegan will open stands in the market’s stone building.

“The Broad Street Market can’t wait to welcome these new vendors to the market community,” said Eric Hagarty, chair of the market’s board. “We are excited that Broad Street Market customers will now have a greater variety of vegetarian and vegan options to choose from, and we are honored to be the first permanent home for Natalie and Marilyn, the inspiring women who run each respective business.”

Harrisburg-based Honey Bear churns up gluten-free, dairy-free, soy-free vegan ice cream flavors, such as pumpkin cheesecake, lemon blueberry buckle and brownie fudge sundae. Currently, various regional stores carry Honey Bear pints, and the business holds regular ice cream trailer pop-up events. The market will be its first brick-and-mortar location.

“Since Honey Bear first popped up with a tent in the courtyard at Broad Street Market to scoop our ice cream in July 2021, we have long imagined having a stand inside the market buildings,” said owner Natalie Wallace. “Much of our loyal following began here, and we are honored to join its roster and become a part of the market’s rich history.”

Ve’Lightfully Vegan is also based in Harrisburg and cooks up vegan soul food. They were recently featured at Philadelphia’s Vegandale, the world’s largest touring vegan experience, according to the market.

Food from Ve’Lightfully Vegan

“I am absolutely thrilled to be joining this incredible market as the owner of Ve’Lightfully Vegan,” said owner Marilyn Jackson. “Our goal is to offer a variety of vibrant, flavor-packed, soulful plant-based meals that everyone can enjoy, whether you are a long-time vegan or just curious about trying something new. I look forward to connecting with this community, sharing our passion for healthy, sustainable food, and making Ve’Lightfully Vegan a go-to spot for delicious, conscious eating.”

Honey Bear and Ve’Lightfully Vegan will both open in the vendor space previously occupied by Lovedraft’s Express. According to Hagarty, they will soon begin construction on their stands and should open in the following weeks.

In another market change, vendor Piper Belle’s Wood Fired Flatbreads announced on social media that it has closed permanently, but will open a new restaurant location in Mountville in January.

In addition, JB Kelly Seafood Connection announced on social media that it would close its market stand in November. Earlier this year, owner John Kelly and business partner Lauren Ellis opened a brick-and-mortar business, Red Raven Surf and Turf, in Dauphin.

The market’s stone building is open Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. The market’s tent is open Thursdays and Fridays from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturdays from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m.

The Broad Street Market is located at 1233 N. 3rd St., Harrisburg. For more information, visit their website.

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Weekend Roundup with Sara Bozich

 

Plan your weekend with my weekly list of things to do around Harrisburg and central PA! 

 

What you’ll find ⤵️ 

For something new: A Spooky Soirée on Railroad Ave (Mechanicsburg, Saturday); Youveau Aesthetics Autumn Event (Thursday)

Worth noting: Next weekend is the Walk to End Alzheimers. I’m walking in honor of my dad. If you’re so inclined, you can access my fundraiser here

Things on my agenda this weekend: youth baseball and bday celebrations

For your weekend planning

Below are more options for your weekend.

A Look Ahead

  1. You can now sponsor the Weekend Roundup! Ask me how! 
  2. Are you on my email list? 
  3. Submit your events for the Weekend Roundup

Thursday

Friday

Saturday

Sunday

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Local, state nonprofits, places of worship awarded funds to support safety

(From left) Lt. Gov. Austin Davis, Rep. Patty Kim (D-103) and LGBT Center Executive Director Amber Roadcap at a press conference.

Several local organizations will receive financial assistance to support their safety efforts.

Pennsylvania Lt. Gov. Austin Davis visited the LGBT Center of Central PA on Wednesday to announce a safety grant awarded to the organization, as well as many others in the state.

“As an organization serving a marginalized community that has experienced hate crimes in the past, the opportunity to have a more robust security measure is of paramount importance,” said Amber Roadcap, executive director of the LGBT Center.

The total $10 million in funding comes from the state’s Nonprofit Security Grant Program and benefits 208 nonprofits, places of worship and community centers with money for safety upgrades.

According to Davis, the commonwealth’s 2024-25 budget included twice the amount of funding for the security grant program as it did last year.

“Unfortunately, we are dealing with an uptick in crimes targeting marginalized communities,” Davis said. “Every Pennsylvanian should have the freedom to love who they love, pray how they want to pray, and be their most authentic selves, free from the threats of violence and harassment.”

The LGBT Center was awarded $25,000, which Roadcap said will help them upgrade their security system. And while the upgrade will help keep the physical space safe, Roadcap described how it will also help provide peace of mind to the center’s community members.

“We are on the precipice of a pivotal election for the LGBTQ community,” Roadcap said. “LGBT folks having a safe and affirming space where they can gather, not just for advocacy and resources and services, but to build community and connection is crucial.”

The following Dauphin County organizations also received grant funding:

  • Chisuk Emuna Congregation—$20,000
  • Jewish Federation Greater Harrisburg—$150,000
  • Kesher Israel Congregation—$25,000
  • Market Square Presbyterian Church—$25,000
  • SOAL: Saving Our Ancestors Legacy—$105,983
  • Temple Ohev Sholom—$18,180

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Harrisburg District swears in new superintendent; high school principal resigns

Judge William Tully swore in Dr. Benjamin Henry as superintendent, who was joined by his wife and daughters.

The Harrisburg School District has officially sworn in its new superintendent.

At a school board meeting on Tuesday, Dauphin County Court of Common Pleas Judge William Tully administered the oath of office to Dr. Benjamin Henry, the new superintendent, who said he “can’t wait to get to work.”

Henry was approved as superintendent by receiver Dr. Lori Suski in August and will officially begin in his role on Nov. 1.

“One of the things that drew me to this school district is, when you look at all the potential of this place, when you really look at the data and where we’re moving as a district, it’s amazing,” he said. “I’m ready to get to work on Nov. 1, getting to the schools, meeting parents, meeting some of our students.”

Henry fills the position previously held by Dr. Eric Turman, who resigned in May and by Dr. Marcia Stokes, who has assumed the position in an interim role.

Henry is slated to serve for a four-year term with a salary of $199,500.

According to the district, Henry has over two decades of experience in public schools. Most recently, he served as the regional assistant superintendent of Polk County schools in Florida. He has also previously held jobs as a special education teacher, a middle school math teacher and a principal.

Once Henry officially starts, his 100-day plan for the district will be posted publicly.

“This community is asking for something different, and I feel like I’m the leader that could really move the school district in the right direction, but I’m going to need everyone’s help,” he said.

Also on Tuesday, Suski approved the resignation of Harrisburg High School-John Harris Campus Principal Laquan Magruder, effective Dec. 31. Magruder was hired in August 2023.

At the meeting, several district teachers spoke out in concern over the high turnover rates of principals at the high school.

“Students at our campus crave stability and consistency, yet, these two things, which are true at the majority of the high schools in our area, including our own Sci-Tech campus, are hard to achieve at John Harris due to the constant change of head principals,” said one teacher.

The teacher said that she believed there had been 13 principals in the position since 2009.

“We hear what you are saying,” Suski said, addressing the teachers at the meeting. “It is our goal, my goal as the receiver, the goal of this board […] and the voices of all of you, that we are going to find the best possible leader to lead John Harris.”

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Harrisburg hires business administrator, ending four-month vacancy for key post

Samuel Sulkosky

Harrisburg has a new chief of staff.

Mayor Wanda Williams announced Samuel Sulkosky as her new business administrator during her State of the City address last week.

Sulkosky, who started on Oct. 9, fills a vacancy left by the previous business administrator, Dan Hartman, who stepped down in June.

Sulkosky served in borough and city manager positions over the last several years. Most recently, he was the interim borough manager of Punxsutawney and, before that, served as the city manager of Duquesne. He also held borough manager positions in Kittanning, Mount Joy and Columbia. He also worked as a self-employed financial advisor for over 17 years and as a county auditor in Indiana County for four years.

Sulkosky, during a phone call with TheBurg, said that he decided to take the job in Harrisburg, seeing it as an “excellent challenge.” He specifically liked the way the city has prioritized paying off large amounts of debt and felt that his experience with lower-income communities and those under Act 47, a state program for financially distressed municipalities, would be helpful.

“The main thing that drives me from a public service standpoint is the biggest interest I have, and concern, is doing what’s best for the community as a whole,” Sulkosky said.

In 2020, Lancaster Online reported that the Mount Joy Borough Council fired Sulkosky from his borough manager role, providing no explanation as to why. When asked about it, Sulkosky explained it as “local politics” that had nothing to do with job performance. Around that time, new council members were elected and wanted to bring in new staff members, Sulkosky said. He added that he was part of a “staff purge” that included dismissing the chief of police, codes officer, borough engineer and others. Sulkosky said that, in retrospect, he probably should’ve resigned, but due to a dispute about his severance payment, didn’t.

In 2023, the Leader Times, reported that the Kittanning borough council eliminated Sulkosky’s borough manager position, clarifying a previous article saying Sulkosky had been fired. Sulkosky told TheBurg that his position had been eliminated.

In his new role as business administrator in Harrisburg, Sulkosky will serve alongside Mayor Wanda Williams in overseeing day-to-day operations of the city.

Sulkosky said that, based on his experience, he’s accustomed to working with councils, mayors, vendors, stakeholders, state and federal agencies and community members. He’s also had extensive experience overseeing economic development, public works and recreational projects, he said.

“I’m sure there’s some things I haven’t seen, but I’ve seen a lot more than I haven’t seen, I can tell you that,” he said. “There aren’t too many scenarios I’m not used to.”

Sulkosky said he is specifically looking forward to working with City Council and building relationships.

“I think I can bring to the table the ability to communicate,” he said.

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The Week that Was: News and features around Harrisburg

Harrisburg Holiday Parade 2022

TheBurg attended the Pennsylvania News Media Association’s 2024 Keystone Awards ceremony this week and received many awards including News Organization of the Year. We thank you, our readers, for your continued support, allowing us to do quality work, like our coverage from this week, listed below.

Bob’s Art Blog highlights the new, artsy and spooky around central PA. Find out what’s coming at the Art Association of Harrisburg and HIVE artspace, here.

The Eichelberger Distillery in Dillsburg has recently been restored and is open for tastings and tours, our magazine story reported. Visitors will find great drinks and a rich history.

Harrisburg’s Holiday Parade will return to downtown on Nov. 23 with floats, balloons and performances, our online story reported. The city will also host a tree-lighting ceremony the day before.

M.C. Walker Realty has operated for 47 years as a family affair. In our magazine story, find out how the agency has grown relationships with clients over the years.

Midtown Cinema will reopen this weekend, following a temporary closure due to damage from Hurricane Debby in August, our online story reported. The cinema also took the opportunity to make improvements to the theater.

Open Stage’s “Ride the Cyclone” is a dark humor musical showing through Nov. 2. In our online story, read a preview of the carnival-themed show.

Phil Broder of Mechanicsburg has a passion for kites, our magazine story reported. Broder has operated his kite-making business, Fly Market Kitemaking Supply, for a decade and has even consulted for movies and productions.

Rain gardens are increasingly being used by Harrisburg area residents as a tool to ease pressure on the region’s aging stormwater systems, our magazine story reported. Planting rain gardens is also a way for people to do their part in the climate change fight.

Room parents are crucial in helping classroom events run smoothly, our magazine story reported. Room parenting helps out teachers, while also giving caregivers a chance to get involved in their student’s education.

Sara Bozich has compiled a list of events happening in the Harrisburg area this weekend, here.

Do you receive TheBurg Daily, our daily digest of news and events delivered right to your email inbox? If not, sign up here!

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Weekend Roundup with Sara Bozich

 

Plan your weekend with my weekly list of things to do around Harrisburg and central PA!


What you’ll find ⤵️

For something new: Midtown Cinema Grand Reopening! The inaugural Seymour’s AFTER DARK at Seymour’s Plant Boutique & Apothecary Worth noting: 3rd in the Burg (we have an extra good one in SoMa!!); Harvest Hop is Saturday in Camp Hill! Things on my agenda this weekend: Jimi’s getting married!!!

For your weekend planning

Below are more options for your weekend.

A Look Ahead

  1. You can now sponsor the Weekend Roundup! Ask me how! 
  2. Are you on my email list?
  3. Submit your events for the Weekend Roundup

Thursday

Friday

Saturday

Sunday

 If you like what we do, please support our work. Become a Friend of TheBurg!

Continue Reading