Passion Pursuit: Harrisburg area businesswomen use experience, expertise to empower, uplift others

September 27, 2024 | by Maddie Gittens

Angela Capeles

“Maybe it’s a pro and con, but I cannot stay silent.”

Ángela Capeles reflected on a job years ago, one that she was let go from, along with many other employees, as the company struggled. However, she noticed an unsettling trend—seemingly only women were being fired at first.

At the time, she was frustrated and spoke up about what she saw as an unfair situation. However, the experience was also a wake-up call for her, that if she were going to follow her entrepreneurial dreams, it was “now or never.”

Capeles has now owned her marketing company, Capeles Agency, for six years. Over that time, she has even hired some of her female co-workers who were also let go at that last company.

Capeles’ years of experience have shaped who she is as a founder and CEO today. Everything about who she is—a woman, a proud Puerto Rican native, a lover of storytelling—influences the business owner she’s become.

October marks National Women’s Small Business Month and, according to a 2024 report by Wells Fargo, women-owned businesses make up 39% of all businesses nationally. Over the past several years, women-owned businesses increased at about double the rate of businesses owned by men, the report noted.

In the Harrisburg area, female entrepreneurs own bakeries, run construction companies, operate retail shops and run restaurants, among many other businesses. For many of them, their business is more than a job—it’s a way to give back, to empower others and to positively impact their communities.

For Capeles, that meant fostering a supportive work environment for her staff internally while also giving her full attention to clients and working to accommodate those who are often overlooked.

“For a lot of entrepreneurs in underserved communities, sometimes they cannot afford high-quality branding and marketing services,” she said. “That should not be the case. A big thing for us over the next few years is continuing to grow our support for Latino-owned businesses so they can feel confident in how their businesses look.”

Ashruta Shettar

Passion Project

Ashruta Shettar’s start in business was born solely out of a desire to help local women.

Sure, the entrepreneurial spirit ran through her family as her parents and relatives owned businesses, but she already had a successful career in IT.

But she wanted to be able to employ women to give them a way to make a living, and so she decided to look into opening her own business.

“I had to leave my country and family back in India and come here to pursue a career, so I know how it feels leaving your home and coming out and doing it,” Shettar said. “So, this being a little city, I felt that we should generate jobs here so that women don’t have to leave their family and go to a tier-one city to get a career.”

About a year and a half ago, Shettar opened a Harrisburg location of the Sugaring NYC franchise, an organic waxing and lash studio, because she believed that the beauty service industry offered many jobs for women.

Business is going well, and the studio currently supports four full-time female staffers. Shettar hopes to expand, but also juggles motherhood, a full-time job and other passion projects.

“I would like to have at least multiple businesses that can employ women,” she said. “But it’s about sustainability, as well. I have to take care of my family.”

Harrisburg business owner Alisha Perry, better known as “That Cupcake Lady” around the city, has recently taken the leap to expand her business. Although, she originally entered the business almost by accident.

After helping bake desserts and decorate for her goddaughter’s birthday party years ago, she started getting requests from family and friends for cupcakes and sweets.

Alisha Perry

“Baking and event planning wasn’t like a passion of mine,” Perry said. “In the beginning, I was just doing it as a hobby. At the time, I was a struggling single mom, and I didn’t even have the money to buy an LLC.”

But with support from her family, the cupcake business quickly took off.

“Word around town was, ‘anybody know who that cupcake lady is?’” she said. “That’s how I took on the name.”

Just recently, Perry and her cousin, Christa Vinson, opened Emerald Suite, an event venue in West Hanover Township, where she aims to provide a unique, luxury experience for clients.

“I get a thrill out of adding to people’s celebratory occasions,” she said.

Because of her experience as a single mom and the challenges that come with it, Perry said that she often seeks ways to bring joy to others.

During the pandemic, she donated over 800 cupcakes to essential workers—one of her proudest accomplishments—and has organized cupcake fundraisers for local nonprofits, as well.

“I’ve struggled to make ends meet, not having the help I needed all the time,” she said. “I give, even when I really don’t have it to give because that’s just who I am as a person.”

Jillian Biehl Morrison

Go for It

When Jillian Biehl Morrison sets her mind on something—she goes all in.

“I’m very much all or nothing,” she said. “I think I’m hardwired for entrepreneurship.”

Biehl Morrison has run her photography business, Bevrore, for a decade, providing women with professional headshots and intimate portraits. She strives to give them an experience that helps them feel comfortable and confident. Just in May, she added a second business to her portfolio, opening Seymour’s Plant Boutique & Apothecary in Mechanicsburg.

Biehl Morrison is also the president of the Downtown Mechanicsburg Partnership, which seeks to promote business and economic development in the community. She’s passionate about helping her neighborhood thrive.

“If I had unlimited resources, I’d have 10 businesses,” she said. “I feel like for me it’s not, ‘what are my passions?’ It’s about narrowing them down. There’s just so much that you could do to make the world better.”

Biehl Morrison serves as an example of how to find an interest and learn to make a business out of it. Both photography and plants were passions that she developed post-college and took the time to learn.

“If there’s something I’m passionate about, I will spend hours and hours learning about it,” she said. “I like that about myself. If I’m interested in something, I can teach it to myself.”

Shettar hopes to help young entrepreneurs gain experience early on through her annual Kidpreneurs Fair in Mechanicsburg. The fair gives youth a chance to sell their own products and learn the basics of business.

And for adults interested in business, Shettar advises to begin by building a network—a “zero-dollar investment.”

“Just go talk to people—introduce yourself. I felt very awkward in the first few networking meetings that I went to because I never did it,” she said. “I used to feel achieved when I talked to even a single person. Now, I have a group of friends who are always there at those events.”

Capeles would tell budding entrepreneurs to “go for it always.”

“We second guess ourselves all the time,” she said. “We tend to find our worth when someone else gives that to us, but that comes from within.”

In her early years in the marketing field, Capeles worked under a successful female business owner in Puerto Rico, and yet, now as an executive herself, it took her time to see herself as a CEO.

“Even though I had a lot of strong women leads in my journey, I knew that I was the founder, but the CEO thing hadn’t really clicked,” she said. “I think it’s also because as females we see, it’s a white dude who’s the CEO. It didn’t really click until a few years ago, and I was like, I am the CEO, of course.”

For more information about Capeles Agency, visit www.capelesagency.com.

Sugaring NYC is located at 4635 High Pointe Blvd., Harrisburg. For more information, visit www.sugaringnyc.com/locations/harrisburg-pa.

For more information about That Cupcake Lady, visit www.thatcupcakelady.com. Emerald Suite is located at 7795 Allentown Blvd., Harrisburg. For more information, visit www.emeraldsuiteluxuryeventvenue.com.

Seymour’s Plant Boutique and Apothecary is located at 230 E. Main St., Mechanicsburg. For more information, visit their Facebook page. Find out more about Bevrore at www.bevrore.com.

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A Resurgence: Measles and whooping cough, what you need to know

September 27, 2024 | by Capital Blue Cross

With cases of measles and whooping cough rising nationwide, Dr. Michael Colli said he has more parents’ attention.

“When the numbers are low, those conversations are harder because you’re trying to protect against this mystery virus,” said Dr. Colli, a pediatrician from Keystone Health in Chambersburg. “Once (the numbers) start to go up, it becomes easier.”

Through Sept. 9, measles cases are four times higher in 2024 than all of 2023 (247 compared to 58), according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The U.S. has experienced a similar uptick with whooping cough, with cases also four times higher in 2024.

Here are four things everyone should know about this sudden surge:

1. Measles and whooping cough can cause serious health problems.

Both can cause serious and lasting health effects, especially with children.

“Measles is not just a rash,” said Dr. Jeremy Wigginton, chief medical officer at Capital Blue Cross. “It can have very serious complications, including ear infections that lead to permanent hearing loss, pneumonia, and encephalitis (swelling of the brain).”

For whooping cough (also called pertussis), Dr. Colli said infants are at greatest risk because their immune systems are still developing.

“The younger you are when you get it, the more devastating it can be,” he said.

2. Measles is extremely contagious.

Achieving herd immunity is different for every virus depending on how contagious it is. Measles spreads so easily that an estimated 95% of the population needs to be vaccinated to reach herd immunity.

Dr. Colli said only two doses of the measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccine can provide lifelong protection for most people.

In most states, children are required to get the MMR vaccine before entering kindergarten. But kindergarten classes in 37 states have rates below the 95% needed for herd immunity, according to the CDC.

One of those states is Pennsylvania, which had vaccinated 95% of its incoming kindergarteners from 2017 to 2022 until dropping below that mark for the 2022-2023 school year.

Of the 2024 measles cases through mid-September, the CDC said more than two-thirds involve people under 19, and 87% were unvaccinated.

3. Whooping cough vaccine is NOT one and done.

Unlike the MMR vaccine, the whooping cough vaccine wanes over time, said Dr. Colli.

The CDC recommends everyone receive five doses of the pertussis vaccine between 2 months and 6 years of age, with a final dose at age 11 or 12. Pregnant women also should receive it.

Whooping cough is most dangerous to infants, but Dr. Colli said teens and adults also should follow CDC guidelines.

“The best thing we can do to protect our infants is to make sure all the adults around them are vaccinated with a recent Tdap booster,” he said.

4. Outbreaks impact entire communities.

Outbreaks inflict painful consequences that can ripple through entire communities. A study from the journal Pediatrics estimated that a 2021 measles outbreak in Washington state cost $1 million in lost workforce production.

In 2016, Dr. Colli helped address a whooping cough outbreak in Chambersburg that started in a local school.

With similar outbreaks occurring in 2024, including at a school in Montgomery County (Pa.), doctors are again calling to ramp up vaccinations.

“The real risk lies in not getting vaccinated,” Dr. Wigginton said. “It leaves yourself, your family, and others in your community vulnerable.”

Because they are a preventive measure, MMR and pertussis vaccines are covered by most plans offered by Capital Blue Cross if you meet the CDC criteria.

For more health and wellness news and information that can benefit you or your family, visit thinkcapitalbluecross.com.

This is sponsored content.

High Flier: From Mechanicsburg, Phil Broder shares his love of kites around the world

September 27, 2024 | by Savannah Pecknold

Phil Broder

Phil Broder had last flown a kite as a kid.

Then, some three decades ago, he happened to pass a kite festival in Chicago and decided to check it out. Ten years later, he asked some friends how to make kites, marking the beginning of a whole new career.

“I always tell them, ‘They created a monster,’” Broder said.

His relationship with kites quickly deepened.

He became the editor for Kiting Magazine, a writer for KiteLife and is now an event planner for the Keystone Kiters. When not at his day job at a tech company, he runs his kitemaking business, Fly Market Kitemaking Supply, operated above the garage next to his home in Mechanicsburg.

Through his business, which launched in 2014, Broder helps bring people’s artistic visions to life. It also attracts buyers for reasons beyond building kites, as his supplies have been used for productions like the San Francisco Opera, as well as for LARP (live action role play) weapons, drones and cosplay.

Broder does not think of himself as much of an artist, rather more of an art thief as he finds art that he thinks would look good on a kite. He draws inspiration from designs like stained glass artwork from the Jersey Shore, an aquarium logo in Cape Town, South Africa, and his last dog, Baker.

The kite he’s most known for, a Perry the Platypus “Agent P” design, was inspired by a stranger’s shirt while on the Cape May-Lewes Ferry. Broder recognized his nephew’s favorite cartoon character and thought, “I could make that fly.”

Broder disagrees with the idea that kites are only for kids. For him, kitemaking is a form of stress relief and gives him an outlet to give back to others. He often finds himself at the Ocean City boardwalk to fly his kites, and he’ll hand the string to people. When they start to smile and gush over a kite they’ve never seen before, it creates a heartwarming moment.

When the time calls for it, Broder dedicates his skills and global network of professional kite-makers to helping people.

“In 2019, my sister was dying of cancer. I got 50-some friends together—some of the best kite-makers in the world—and I said, ‘I want to raise some money,” he said. “And there’s nothing else I can do for her. This is the power I have.”

In the end, they raised about $45,000.

“I was absolutely floored,” he said. “Did it keep my sister alive? No, but it is something that I did, and it helped a little bit.”

Broder also helped raise $5,000 for the Ukrainian Kite Association after war broke out in that country, and the money ended up being used to buy food and help people leave.

“Year after year, he challenges himself,” said Phil’s wife, Carly. “He’s dedicated to expanding people’s views on what a kite is and its cultural and historical significance.”

When Broder got into kitemaking, he didn’t think it would give him the chance to work with well-known actors like Brett Goldstein and Amy Adams.

However, earlier this year, he was cast as technical advisor for a scene in the upcoming movie, “At the Sea.” Broder and his friend taught Goldstein how to fly a quadlined kite at a kite festival in Newport, R.I. He then met and spoke with Adams on the movie set in Boston.

When the film comes out, you may even get a glimpse of Broder.

“When you see the movie, there will be a giant whale kite,” he said. “I’ll be standing under that.”

While the whale kite is not his, he flew his own kites and had about three others up in the air.

Broder’s active role in the kiting community has brought him and his wife across the globe to enjoy kite festivals year-round.

Committing themselves to honoring people, their cultures, and the history of kites, they always take the time to know the local community, make friends and share the joy of kites.

Currently, Broder has a kite in the works for a festival in Malta, and his creations are competing in the big national convention this year.

“People will say it’s just kites, that’s kid stuff—it’s not,” Broder said. “It’s more than that.”

For more information on Fly Market Kitemaking Supply, visit www.flymarketkites.com or email at [email protected].

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Happenings: Our October Calendar of Events

September 27, 2024 | by Missy Smith

Museums & Art Spaces

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

“Vintage Bicycles—Enjoy the Ride,” through Oct. 20

“Professional Vehicles—100 Years of Service,” through Oct. 20

“Ollie’s Bang for the Buck,” through Oct. 20

Husqvarna: “Get Your Husky On,” through Oct. 20

Carlisle Events 50th Anniversary Exhibit, through Oct. 20

Plymouth Showroom, through Oct. 20

“Forgotten Features—Classic & Cool Discontinued Options,” through spring 2025

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

“The Ugly Beautiful,” featuring paintings by Brooklyn resident Jeff Bye, that capture and preserve images of our country’s urban decay, and the people who live in these environments, Oct. 4-Nov. 14

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

“Watercolor Stories: The Works of Yachiyo Beck & Her Students,” Oct. 4-24; reception: Oct. 4, 5:30-7 p.m.

Arts on the Square
20 S. 2nd St., Harrisburg
717-257-1270; marketsquarechurch.org

Works of Barbara Passeri-Warfel in oil, fiber and charcoal exhibit, through Dec. 29

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

“PUSH: A Mother’s Journey,” showcasing the collage work of Katherine Horst and the sculpture work of Stephanie Wallendjack, through Oct. 26

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

October artist of the month

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

Artwork by Delana Gray-Tuttle, through Oct. 26

Gallo’ry on Market
2010 Market St., Camp Hill
717-623-2090; galloryonmarket.com

October featured artists: Brian Eppley, Sue Marrazzo, Mairim Bermudez

Hershey Area Art Association (HAAA)
hersheyart.org

HAAA Member Artwork at Hershey Public Library, hallway gallery, through Oct. 12

“Under the Colors” Art Show at Hershey Public Library, featuring more than 100 pieces of fine art and 3D art by local artists; Oct. 26: children’s art workshop, 11 a.m. to 12 p.m.

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

Lebanon Picture Frame & Fine Art Gallery
847 Cumberland St., Lebanon
LebanonPictureFrame.com

“The Humor, Reality and Fantasy of Parental Relationships in Nature” works by Cindi Hardwicke and Justin Pettingell of Sycamore Shade Studios, Oct. 4-Nov. 30; reception: Oct. 4, 5-8 p.m.

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

“Sean Matthews—Histories,” Oct. 4-Nov. 10; reception: Oct. 4, 4:30 p.m.

“Hope Revealed—Aimee West Cardoso Exhibition, ” through Oct. 18; reception and celebration: Homecoming weekend, Oct. 5, 4-6 p.m.

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

New works by Pamela Black, Reina 76 Artist, Julie Iaria, Eve Tiday and Kristen Livelsberger, through Oct. 13

New works by Marsha Souders, Richard Souders, Elaine Elledge, Linda Benton McCloskey, Spencer Jackson and Rachel Bouwense, Oct. 15-Nov. 10

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

Art in the Stacks featuring artist Ciara Beshara, Oct. 1-31

Art by the Zonta Club of Harrisburg Hershey the Main Floor Showcase Exhibit, Oct. 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
Landis House, 67 N. 4th St., Newport
717-567-7023; perrycountyarts.org

10th Annual Juried Exhibition, through Nov. 14

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

“Witchy Women and Cosmic Queens,” original artwork by Rebecca Lesny, through Oct. 3

Riverfront Gallery at St. Stephen’s Episcopal Cathedral
221 N. Front St., Harrisburg
717-236-4059; ststephenshbg.org

“Feminine Divine,” a display of paintings, photography, prints and textiles by 12 artists that examine feminine counterpart to patriarchal and masculine structures, through Oct. 27

The Smith Gallery & Fine Custom Framing
190 Reno Ave., New Cumberland
717-774-4301; smithcustomframing.com

Works by Linda Williard, through Oct. 5

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

“Art of the State,” highlighting the commonwealth’s rich artistic heritage with painting, photography/digital media, craft, sculpture and works on paper by 96 artists from 28 Pennsylvania counties, through Jan. 5

“Game Changers—Pennsylvania Women Who Made History,” celebrating women from across the state in diverse fields and detailing the contributions they made 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”

“Seeing Fallingwater—Celebrating Pennsylvania’s Architectural Masterpiece”

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

“Ancient Ink, ” photography by Mark Perrott that documents the ever-expanding group of tattooed Americans, through Oct. 6

“Margins and the Height of the Sun,” works by Elaine Elledge that she created while balancing her life as an artist and parent, through Oct. 6

“Domestic Affairs,” Susquehanna Art Museum’s ninth annual juried exhibition with artwork exploring subjects relating to the domestic, Oct. 9-Jan. 5

“How We Shut Down Berks,” works by Queremos Justicia, which tells the story of how the Shut Down Berks Coalition organized to close an immigrant prison, through Nov. 3

“Distinguished Grace—The Paintings of Dean Stambaugh” celebrates and showcases the artist’s work throughout his career and lifetime, through Dec. 1

“The Hidden Museum” invites visitors to locate “hidden” works of art the Susquehanna Art Museum, through Dec. 31

Suzanne H. Arnold Art Gallery
Lebanon Valley College
101 College Ave., Annville
717-233-8668; lvc.edu/gallery

“Elliott Erwitt: Dog Dogs,” exhibition of photography, through Oct. 20; gallery talk: Oct. 15, 11 a.m.

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

“William Gropper’s America,” a whimsically didactic map of the U.S. that illustrates legendary and historical figures, from Molly Pitcher to Johnny Appleseed, through Oct. 19

“The Legacy of Two Centuries of Black American Art,” celebrating the legacy of David Driskell’s groundbreaking 1976 exhibition, through Dec. 20

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

“Tabletop Still Lifes” by artist Douglas Anderson, who uses acrylic on canvas to infuse traditional still-life subjects, with his own sense of humor, through Oct. 25.

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

“Teachers’ Showcase, ” celebrating the art of Wheel of Light Studio instructors, through Oct. 5

“Member’s Mark,” the best of the work created by Wheel of Light Studio makers, Oct. 9-Nov. 16

Read, Make, Learn

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

Oct. 1, 8, 15: Fundamentals of Glasswork (adults), 6-8 p.m.
Oct. 2 & 16: Watercolor Painting Step-by-Step (adults), 9:30 a.m.-4 p.m.
Oct. 3: Halloween Skull-Making Workshop (adults), 6-8 p.m.
Oct. 3, 10, 17, 24: Acrylic Painting (adults), 1:30-3 p.m.
Oct. 3, 10, 17, 24: Pottery Wheel Throwing (adults), 9:30 a.m.-12 p.m.
Oct. 8: Pumpkin Stacks Watercolor Workshop (adults), 6-8:30 p.m.
Oct. 8, 15, 29, Nov. 5: Intermediate Pottery (ages 15-adult), 12-3 p.m.
Oct. 9: Date Night with Glassblowing (adults), 6-8 p.m.
Oct. 10: Collage is Cool Workshop (adults), 6-8 p.m.
Oct. 10, 17: Can You Guess the Word? (ages 9-14), 5:30-7 p.m.
Oct. 10, 17, 24, 31: Intermediate & Advanced Pottery (adults), 1-3:30 p.m.
Oct. 17, 24, Nov. 7, 14: Beginning Drawing (adults), 6-8 p.m.
Oct. 24, 31, Nov. 7, 14, 21, Dec. 5: Vibrant Landscapes in Oil (adults), 9:30 a.m.-12 p.m.
Oct. 29: Intro to Glass Torchwork (Adults & ages 12 and up, with an adult), 6-8 p.m.
Oct. 29, Nov. 5, 12, 19: Figure Drawing Studio (adults), 6-8 p.m.
Oct. 31, Nov. 7, 14, 21: Pastel Painting (adults), 9:30 a.m.- 12 p.m.
Oct. 31, Nov. 7, 14, 21: Pottery Wheel Throwing (adults), 9:30 a.m.- 12 p.m.

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

Oct. 2: Virtual Wellness Presentation—Healthy Weight Loss, 12 p.m.
Oct. 2, 9, 16, 23, 30: Virtual INSPIRE, 9 a.m.
Oct. 2, 9, 16, 23, 30: Cardio Kickboxing, 4:30 p.m.
Oct. 3, 10, 17, 24, 31: Ready, Steady, Action! at Enola Store and Virtual, 4:15 p.m.
Oct. 4, 11, 18, 25: Strong + Fit, 10 a.m.
Oct. 7, 14: Tai Chi, 4 p.m.
Oct. 7, 14, 21, 28: Gentle Yoga Flow, 9:30 a.m.
Oct. 7, 14, 21, 28: Virtual Pilates, 5 p.m.

Consciousness Coffee
1 Lemoyne Square Suite 108, Lemoyne
consciousness.coffee

Oct. 11: Pumpkin Hunt to benefit the Neurodiverse Network
Oct. 13: Macrame Class, 12-2 p.m.

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

Oct. 2-Nov. 6: Clay Club for Teens (grades 6-9), 3:30-5 p.m.
Oct. 5: Porcelain Paper Clay Workshop (ages 16-adult), 11 a.m.-2 p.m.
Oct. 5, 12, 19, 26: Elements of the Human Face (ages 10-14), 12-2 p.m.
Oct. 8, 15, 22, 29: Beginning Oil Painting (ages 16-adult), 6-8 p.m.
Oct. 8, 15, 22, 29: Intermediate/Advanced Oil Painting
Oct. 11: Craft Beer & Clay, 7-9 p.m.
Oct. 12: Collage as a Fine Art Workshop, 11 a.m.-3 p.m.
Oct. 16: Pumpkins Watercolor Workshop (ages 16-adult), 6-8 p.m.
Oct. 19: Friendly Ghosts (ages 5-12), 10:30 a.m.-12 p.m.
Oct. 19: Image Studies with Encaustic Transfer and Collage Workshop, 10:30 a.m.-3 p.m.
Oct. 22-Nov. 26: Practicing the Fundamentals of Photography, 6 Tuesdays, 6:30-8 p.m.
Oct. 23-Nov. 23: Fall Art Club (grades K-2), 3:45-5 p.m.
Oct. 25-Dec. 6: Friday Art Club (grades 3-5), 3:45-5 p.m.
Oct. 26: Copper Enameling (ages 13-adult), 11 a.m.-1 p.m.

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

Oct. 3: Tasty Thai, 6-9 p.m.
Oct. 23: One Pan Wonders, 6-9 p.m.

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

Oct. 13, 20, 27: Pigment of Your Imagination, 12-2 p.m.
Oct. 17: Sip & Speak Book Club, 3-4:30 p.m.
Oct. 25: East Shore Cinema, 7-8:30 p.m.
Oct. 26: Figment Forge, 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.

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

Oct. 1, 8, 15, 22, 29: Card Making Group, 5-7 p.m.
Oct. 2, 9, 16, 23, 30: Homeschool Happening, 2-4 p.m.
Oct. 3, 10, 17, 24, 31: Fiber Artists, 3-6 p.m.
Oct. 5: Knitter’s Group, 10 a.m.-2 p.m.
Oct. 12: Fiber Artists, 10 a.m.-2 p.m.
Oct. 15: Baby Musik Time, 9:50-10:20 a.m.
Oct. 15: Preschool Musik Time, 10:30-11 a.m.
Oct. 19: Book Discussion Group, 10 a.m.-12 p.m.
Oct. 19: K-Pets Therapy Reading Sessions, 10:30-11:30 a.m.

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

Oct. 1: Plot Twisters Teen Writers Group, 6-7 p.m.
Oct. 2, 9, 16, 30: Baby & Toddler Storytime, 10-10:30 a.m.
Oct. 2, 9, 16, 30: Children’s Storytime, 11-11:30 a.m.
Oct. 3, 10, 24: Device Advice, 5-6 p.m.
Oct. 3, 10, 17, 24, 31 Meditation to Calm the Mind, 12-12:30 p.m.
Oct. 3, 17: Language at the Library-Beginner Spanish, 10-11 a.m.
Oct. 5: The Puzzlers, 1-4:30 p.m.
Oct. 5, 12, 19, 26: Heartfulness Meditation Workshop, 2-3 p.m.
Oct. 6: TeenTober Meetup, 2-4 p.m.
Oct. 6: Game Day for All, 1-4:30 p.m.
Oct. 8: Genealogy Club, 11 a.m.-12 p.m.
Oct. 10, 24: Journaling for Life, 6:30-8:30 p.m.
Oct. 11: Indie & Foreign Film Friday—“Once,” 2-4 p.m.
Oct. 14: Coffee (BYO) and Conversation, 10-11:30 a.m.
Oct. 14: The Puzzlers, 1:30-8:30 p.m.
Oct. 14: Philosopher’s Roundtable, 2-3:30 p.m.
Oct. 18: Peaceful Poses Adult Yoga, 9:15-10 a.m.
Oct. 18: Peaceful Poses Yoga Storytime for Preschoolers, 10-10:45 a.m.
Oct. 19: Computer Basics, 2-3 p.m.
Oct. 19: Neurodivergent Adult Support Group, 3 p.m.
Oct. 21: Fredricksen Writes, 7 p.m.
Oct. 22: Evening Genealogy Club, 5-6 p.m.
Oct. 22: Tween LEGO Club, 6-7:30 p.m.
Oct. 26: Tween Escape Room, 1:30-2:30 p.m.
Oct. 26: Teen Escape Room, 3:30-4:30 p.m.
Oct. 28: Fredricksen Reads—“The Wren, the Wren,” 7-8 p.m.

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

Oct. 3: Stained Glass Pumpkin, 6 – 8 pm
Oct. 5: Tote Basket #2 Cloth Handle, 10 a.m.-1:30 p.m.
Oct. 6: Enchanting Whisk Broom, 1-3 p.m.
Oct. 10: Halloween Skull (ages 12+), 6-8 pm.
Oct. 12: Autumn Leaf Painting, 1-3 p.m.
Oct. 14-16: 3-Day Watercolor Workshop at Millersburg Area Senior Center, 10 a.m.-3 p.m.
Oct. 18: Bewitching, 6-8 p.m.
Oct. 19: Paper Quilled Dragonfly, 1-3 p.m.
Oct. 26: Halloween Mosaic, 10 a.m.- 1 p.m.

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

Oct. 2: Boundless Builders, 4:30-5:30 p.m.

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

Oct. 1: Hershey Area Pokemon Club, 5:30-7 p.m.
Oct. 1, 3, 8, 10, 15, 17, 22, 24, 29, 31: Penn State Hershey—Mothers & Babies, 10:15 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
Oct. 1, 15: 1, 2, Whee!, 10:15-10:45 a.m.
Oct. 2: LEGO Club, 4-4:45 p.m.
Oct. 2: Open Book Group, 6-7:45 p.m.
Oct. 2, 9, 23, 30: Community Crochet Night, 6-7:45 p.m.
Oct. 3, 17, 24, 31: Teen Time, 3-4:30 p.m.
Oct. 3, 17, 31: Hershey Quilters, 12-4 p.m.
Oct. 7, 14: Books and Babies, 10:15-10:45 a.m.
Oct. 9: Board Game Night, 5-7:45 p.m.
Oct. 12, 19, 26: Chess Club, 1-3 p.m.
Oct. 14: Hershey Area Neighbors and Newcomers, 10:15 a.m.-1 p.m.
Oct. 15: Teen Zine, 3-5 p.m.
Oct. 19: Cocoa Area Fiber Enthusiasts, 10 a.m.-12:30 p.m.

Historic Harrisburg Resource Center
1230 N. 3rd St., Harrisburg
historicharrisburg.org

Oct. 28: Fourth Monday Program: “Fire Prevention for Historic Homes,” 6-8 p.m.

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

Oct. 5: Foraging for Roots, 9 a.m.-1 p.m.
Oct. 5: Fermenting Sauerkraut, 10:30 a.m.-12:45 p.m.
Oct. 6: Teas & Trees—Early Fall Foraging Walk, 10 a.m.-12 p.m.
Oct. 19: Gut Nourishing Treats—A Beginner’s Guide to Lacto-fermenting, 11 a.m.-1 p.m.
Oct. 26: Cooking with the Seasons—Autumn Harvest Meal, 10:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m.

Joseph T. Simpson Public Library
16 N. Walnut St., Mechanicsburg
717-766-0171; simpsonlibrary.org

Oct. 1, 8, 15, 22, 29: Tea and Stitches, 10 a.m.-12 p.m.
Oct. 1, 8, 15, 22, 29: Storybook STEAM, 6-7 p.m.
Oct. 3: LEGO Club, 6-7 p.m.
Oct. 3, 10, 17: Beginning Mah Jongg, 10 a.m.-1 p.m.
Oct. 3, 10, 17, 24, 31: Mah Jongg, 10 a.m.-1 p.m.
Oct. 3, 10, 17, 24, 31: Story Time, 10:15-11 a.m.
Oct. 3, 10, 17, 24, 31: Toddler Time, 11:15-11:35 a.m.
Oct. 3, 10, 17, 24, 31: Rhyme Time, 11:45 a.m.-12:05 p.m.
Oct. 3, 10, 17, 24, 31: Kindergarten Readiness, 1 p.m. or 6 p.m.
Oct. 4, 11, 18, 25: LEGO Time, 10:15-11:15 a.m.
Oct. 10: Graphic Novel Club (grades 6-12), 6-7:30 p.m.
Oct. 11, 25: Dungeons & Dragons (grades 6-12), 6-8 p.m.
Oct. 16: Watch the Skies Sci-Fi Book Club, 7-9 p.m.
Oct. 17: Thursday Morning Book Club, 10-11 a.m.
Oct. 17: Scrabble in the Library, 11 a.m.-1 p.m.
Oct. 19: Craft-A-Palooza, 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
Oct. 21: STEAM Club, 6-7 p.m.
Oct. 21: Monday Night Book Club, 7-8 p.m.
Oct. 22: Tea & Stitches Extended Edition, 12-3 p.m.
Oct. 26-27: Oct. Book Sale
Oct. 26: Block Party, 10:30-11:25 a.m.
Oct. 26: Puzzle Party, 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
Oct. 26: Trivia at Home—80s & 90s, 6-8 p.m.
Oct. 31: Tales for TAILS!, 6-7 p.m.

The LGBT Center of Central PA
1323 N. Front St., Harrisburg
717-409-5781; centralpalgbtcenter.org

Oct. 2, 9, 16, 23, 30: Common Roads (ages 12-17), 6-8 p.m.
Oct. 5, 12, 19, 26: Passageways, 2 p.m.
Oct. 6, 13, 20, 27: Young Adult Group, 4 p.m.
Oct. 12: QTPOC Advisory Group, 6-8 p.m.

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

Oct. 2: Inspiration Cafe, 3:30-4:30 p.m.

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

Oct. 12: Reading the Rainbow Book Club, 11 a.m.-12 p.m.

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

Oct. 1, 8, 15, 22, 29: Storytime, 10:30-11:30 a.m.
Oct. 1, 8, 15, 22, 29: Tales with T.A.I.L.S., 6-7 p.m.
Oct. 1-31: Community Puzzle Table during library hours
Oct. 3: Book Lovers Book Club, 6 p.m.
Oct. 3, 10, 17, 24, 31: LEGO Club, 6:30-7:30 p.m.
Oct. 7, 14, 21, 28: Kids STEM Club, 5:30 p.m.
Oct. 7, 14, 21, 28: Teen STEM Club, 6:30 p.m.
Oct. 9, 23: Crafters Circle, 1 p.m.
Oct. 12: Family Board Games Day, 10 a.m.
Oct. 17: Creative Writers Forum, 6 p.m.
Oct. 21: Mystery Book Club, 6 p.m.
Oct. 22: Silent Book Club, 6 p.m.
Oct. 26-Nov. 7: Library Fall Book Sale during library hours
Oct. 31: Trick or Treat at the Library, 6-8 p.m.

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

Oct. 16: An Evening with David Sedaris, 7:30-8:30 p.m.
Oct. 22: An Evening with Stephanie Duncan Smith, 6-7 p.m.
Oct. 24: An Evening with Neal Stephenson, 7-8 p.m.
Oct. 31: An Afternoon with Louise Penny, 1-2 p.m.

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

Oct. 5: Mask Making, 11 a.m.-4:30 p.m.
Oct. 5: First Saturday Open Studios, 2-5 p.m.
Oct. 6: Linocut Workshop, 1:30-5 p.m.
Oct. 10: Sacred Symbol Paint, Sip and Breathe, 6-8 p.m.
Oct. 11: Fall Candle Making, 6-8 p.m.
Oct. 20: Acrylic Pouring Class, 1-4 p.m.
Oct. 23: Art and Beer Crawl 6-9 p.m.
Oct. 26: Glass Fused Snowman Workshop, 1-3:30 p.m.
Oct. 27: Alcohol Inks Class, 1-4 p.m.
Oct. 27: Trick or Treat for Kids! 10-11 a.m.

National Civil War Museum
One Lincoln Circle, Harrisburg
717-260-1861; nationalcivilwarmuseum.org

Oct. 17: Reckoning with the Devil: Nathan Bedford Forrest in Myth and Memory, 7-8 p.m.

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

Oct. 23: Saw-whet Owl Banding Program, 6-9 p.m.

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

Oct. 1, 8, 15, 22, 29: Book Babies (ages 0-2), 11:15 a.m.-12 p.m.
Oct. 1-5: Pumpkin LEGO Contest (ages 6-12)
Oct. 1-31: Hallo-Read Challenge (ages 0-12)
Oct. 1-31: Emoji Scavenger Hunt (ages 0-12)
Oct. 2: Kid Builders (ages 3 and up), 4:30-5:30 p.m.
Oct. 2: Piece Seekers, 6-7:30 p.m.
Oct. 3: Ruth’s Mystery Discussion Group, 10:15 a.m.-12 p.m.
Oct. 3, 10, 17, 24, 31: Tech Time, 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
Oct. 3, 17: Musical Mornings (ages 2-5), 10:30-11 a.m.
Oct. 4, 11, 18, 25: 1, 2, 3 Play With Me (ages 0-3), 11 a.m.-12 p.m.
Oct. 5, 12, 19: Take and Makes (ages 2-5)
Oct. 5, 19: Book Sales, 9 a.m.-3 p.m.
Oct. 7, 21: Monday Great Books Discussion Group, 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
Oct. 7, 21, 28: Fall Preschool Storytimes (ages 2-5), 10:30-11:15 a.m.
Oct. 7, 21, 28: Baby Dance Party (ages 0-2) Mondays, 12-12:30 p.m.
Oct. 7, 21, 28: Teen Monday FUNday, 3-4 p.m.
Oct. 8: Shelf Love, 6-7 p.m.
Oct. 8: Tales for Tails (ages 6-12), 6:30-7:30 p.m.
Oct. 9: Wednesday Great Books Discussion Group, 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
Oct. 10, 24: Movers and Groovers (ages 2-5), 10:30-11 a.m.
Oct. 11, 25: Dungeons & Dragons (ages 13-17), 4-6 p.m.
Oct. 12: Teen Craft Kits (ages 13-17)
Oct. 16: Glow Paint Party (ages 5-15), 5-6 p.m.
Oct. 19: Couponing for Extreme Savings, 11 a.m.-12 p.m.
Oct. 22: Smokey’s Birthday Party (ages 5-12), 4:30-5:30 p.m.
Oct. 23: PennWriters Writing Group, 6-9 p.m.
Oct. 26: Crafty Crafters Club, 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
Oct. 30: Teen Crafternoon (ages 13-17), 3-4 p.m.
Oct. 31: Halloween Storytime (ages 2-5), 10:30-11:15 a.m.

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

Oct. 7: Black Flowers Watercolor Workshop, 6-8 p.m.
Oct. 9-Nov. 13: After-School Art Class (grades 4-8), 6 Wednesdays, 4:30-6 p.m.
Oct. 16: Mosaic Pumpkin Class, 6-8 p.m.
Oct. 26: Spooky Ghosts Needle Felting, 11 a.m.-1 p.m.
Oct. 28: Skeletons Watercolor Workshop, 6-8 p.m.

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

Oct. 1: Owls of PA, 11:30 a.m.
Oct. 2-31: Passport to the Universe, 1-1:30 p.m.
Oct. 2-31: Faster than Light
Oct. 2-31: Legends of the Night Sky, 1-1:30 p.m.
Oct. 4, 19: Storytime, 10:30 a.m.
Oct. 11: Curiosity Kids—Discovering Dinosaurs, 11:30 a.m.
Oct. 11, 12, 13: Stargazing—Tonight’s Sky Live Chat, 3 p.m.
Oct. 12: Fossils, 10 a.m.
Oct. 17: Phacops Rana—Pennsylvania’s State Fossil, 11:30 a.m.
Oct. 20: Fallingwater as a World Heritage Site—a discussion with Justin Gunther, 1:30-2:30 p.m.
Oct. 23: Archaeology, Geology, Paleontology, 11:30 a.m.
Oct. 25: Curiosity Kids—LIGHT, 11:30 a.m.
Oct. 25: Virtual Program—Keystone Collections: Curating Pennsylvania’s Ceramic Past, 12:15-12:45 p.m.
Oct. 26: Nature in Art, 11 a.m.-3 p.m.
Oct. 30: PA Rocks!, 11:30 a.m.

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

Oct. 5: Fall Collage (ages 6-8), 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.

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

Oct. 5: Ceramic Bread Warmers Workshop, 11 a.m.-12 p.m.
Oct. 5: Fall/Halloween Resin Pendant Class, 11 am-12 p.m.
Oct. 5: Byzantine Chainmaille Class, 1-2 p.m.
Oct. 5: Mosaic Cats Workshop, 1-3 p.m.
Oct. 10: Needle Felted Pumpkin Class, 6-8 p.m.
Oct. 12: Fall/Halloween Resin Pendant Class, 11 a.m.- 12 p.m.
Oct. 12: Chicken Gourd Workshop, 1-3 p.m.
Oct. 12: Pumpkin Pendant Workshop, 1-2 p.m.
Oct. 12: Sweet Pea Chainmaille Class, 3-4 p.m.
Oct. 15: Paint Your House Watercolor Class, 5:30-8 p.m.
Oct. 25: Dirty Date Night, 7-9 p.m.
Oct. 26: Paint & Sip, 1-4 p.m.
Oct. 26: Needle Felting Ghostie, 2-4 p.m.
Oct. 29: Macramé Cat Collar Class, 6-8 p.m.

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

Oct. 2, 9, 16, 23, 30: Wednesday Wellness Walk, 1:30-2:30 p.m.
Oct. 3: Bird Walk—Fall Migration at Wildwood, 7:30-9:30 a.m.
Oct. 5: Birdhouse Workshop, 10 a.m.-3 p.m.
Oct. 9: Preschool Storytime—Fall at Wildwood, 10-10:45 a.m.
Oct. 11: A Night Under the Stars at Detweiler Park, 8-10 p.m.
Oct. 12: Volunteer Work Day, 10 a.m.-1 p.m.
Oct. 12: Kids Discover—Leaves (ages 4-6), 1:30-3 p.m.
Oct. 19: Night at the Nature Center, 5:30-8 p.m.
Oct. 26: Penn State Extension Master Gardeners’ Spectacular Fall Color—Plants That Stand Out, 9:30-11 a.m.
Oct. 26: Kids Discover—Arachnids (ages 5-10), 10-11:30 a.m.
Oct. 26: Fall Tree Walk at Detweiler Park, 1:30-3 p.m.

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

Oct. 15: Financial Literacy Workshop with M&T Bank, 5:30-6:30 p.m.
Oct. 19: The Plot Thickens, 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
Oct. 26: Crafternoon, 11 a.m.-1 p.m.

Live Music

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

Oct. 4: The Texas Tenors
Oct. 5: Travis Tritt
Oct. 6: Priscilla Presley
Oct. 11: Lee Asher
Oct. 12: Three Dog Night

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

Oct. 5: Rivers, Tanner and Lauren of Tanner Bingaman’s Pretty Big Garden
Oct. 11: Johnny Lit’s Jerry Duty—Jerry Garcia Tribute Show
Oct. 18: April Marion
Oct. 19: Arkansauce, Stone House Breakdown
Oct. 25: Jimkata, AMFM
Oct. 26: Abbey Road Tribute by Sons of Pitches

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

Oct. 4: Jazz in the City
Oct. 5: York Symphony’s John Williams Forever—Star Wars & The Planets
Oct. 10: Iam Tongi
Oct. 10: The Outlet—Music & Poetry Open Mic
Oct. 13: Todd Rundgren
Oct. 16: John Craigie, Tré Burt
Oct. 17: Béla Fleck & Abigail Washburn
Oct. 19: York Symphony’s Disney Tim Burton’s “The Nightmare Before Christmas”—Film with Live Orchestra
Oct. 26: The Ultimate Queen Celebration

Arts on the Square
20 S. 2nd St., Harrisburg
717-257-1270; marketsquarechurch.org

Oct. 27: Bill Carter and the Presbybop Quintet

Blues Society of Central PA
Champions Sports Bar and Grill
300 2nd St., Highspire
bscpblues.com

Oct. 3, 10, 17, 24, 31: Blues Jams
Oct. 4: Daryl Davis at Pennsylvania College of Art & Design, Lancaster

Capitol Opera Harrisburg
capopera.com

Oct. 5, 6: “Three Sopranos” at Epiphany Lutheran Church, Harrisburg

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

Oct. 2, 16, 23: Tristin Lynee
Oct. 3, 10, Oct. 31: Andrea Britton
Oct. 4, 18: Roy LeFever
Oct. 5, 12, 17, 19, 24, 26: Chris Emkey
Oct. 11, 25: Ted Ansel
Oct. 30: Christine Purcell

The Englewood
1219 Research Blvd., Hummelstown
717-256-9480; englewoodhershey.com

Oct. 25: Drink or Treat

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

Oct. 1: Slapshot, Ignite, Death by Stereo, School Drugs
Oct. 3: The Elovaters, Cisco Adler, Bikini Trail
Oct. 4: The Ancient Mariners—Ultimate Tribute to Iron Maiden
Oct. 5: Dead Again—Type O Negative Tribute
Oct. 10: Eric Hutchinson
Oct. 10: Oso Oso, Sorry Mom
Oct. 12: The Taylor Party—Cruel Summer
Oct. 18: Emo Night: Hallowemo Party
Oct. 25: TVBOO, Slump, smith, Mport
Oct. 25: Dad Rock Night
Oct. 26: KMFDM, Morlocks

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

Oct. 19-20: MAMBO KINGS Hot Latin Nights!

Harrisburg University Presents
concertseries.harrisburgu.edu

Oct. 2: Mat Kearney at XL Live
Oct. 29: The Struts at XL Live

Hershey Theatre
15 E. Caracas Ave., Hershey
717-534-3405; hersheytheatre.com

Oct. 18: America
Oct. 26: Tony Bennett—The Official Musical Celebration

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

Oct. 4: Cold Spring Union
Oct. 4: Kevin Raubenstine
Oct. 5: Honey & Nutz Duo
Oct. 5: 7 Bridges Tribute Band—The Ultimate Eagles Experience
Oct. 11: Emily’s ToyBox
Oct. 11: Erica Lyn Everest Duo
Oct. 12: Ostrich Hat
Oct. 12: Brenda Brune
Oct. 18: Smooth Like Clyde
Oct. 18: Jim & Michele
Oct. 19: Sapphire
Oct. 19: Shine Delphi
Oct. 25: Funktion
Oct. 25: Dave Kelly Duo
Oct. 26: A Sought Out City
Oct. 26: Joe Cooney & Friend

Keystone Concert Band
145 E. Main St., First Floor, Mechanicsburg
717-329-7541; keystoneconcertband.com

Oct. 12: Concert at Linglestown Life United Methodist Church

Lovedraft’s Brewing Co.
165 Gateway Dr., Mechanicsburg
717-610-3331; lovedraftsbrewing.com

Oct. 2: Nervosa
Oct. 4: The Art of Deception
Oct. 5: What Lies Below
Oct. 6: Galactic Empire Sun
Oct. 10: Texas Hippie Coalition
Oct. 11: The Convalescence
Oct. 12: Ring of Screams
Oct. 13: Harrisburg Record Riot
Oct. 13: Thomas Ian Nicholas and American Pie Night
Oct. 16: Demon Hunter
Oct. 19: SHIM
Oct. 22: Silent Theory
Oct. 25: Walls of Jericho
Oct. 31: The Bridge City Sinners

Luhrs Performing Arts Center
1871 Old Main Dr., Shippensburg
717-477-7469; luhrscenter.com

Oct. 4: The Isaacs
Oct. 5: Let’s Sing Taylor
Oct. 12: Nitty Gritty Dirt Band
Oct. 18: Neil Berg’s 50 Years of Rock and Roll

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

Oct. 12: AM Percussion—The Blue Barrel Show
Oct. 25: “One Night in Memphis”

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

Oct. 5: Messiah University Concert Choir and Alumni Reunion Concert
Oct. 5: Messiah University Symphony Orchestra Family Concert and Instrument Petting Zoo
Oct. 5 Messiah University Jazz Ensemble
Oct. 11: African Children’s Choir

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

Oct. 6: Avery Gagliano

Stock’s on 2nd
211 N. 2nd Street, Harrisburg
717-233-6699; stocksonsecond.com

Oct. 4: Jon and David Robinson

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

Oct. 13: Oct. Jam & Song Swap
Oct. 16: Tray Wellington Band
Oct. 19: Deeper Than The Skin

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

Oct. 2: Harrisburg University Presents Mat Kearney
Oct. 4: The Glorious Sons
Oct. 11: Trampled By Turtles, Knorrwood
Oct. 12: Badfish: A Tribute to Sublime, Land of Panda
Oct. 16: Cool Cool Cool & Funk You
Oct. 17: Dispatch
Oct. 18: Zoso The Ultimate Led Zeppelin Experience
Oct. 26: The Lone Bellow
Oct. 29: Harrisburg University Presents The Struts

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

Oct. 10: Joshua Bell
Oct. 18: Chloe Flower

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

Oct. 8: Harrisburg Jazz Collective
Oct. 11: Meaghan Farrell, Kate Mills
Oct. 12: Groove Rebels, The Jellybricks
Oct. 18: Burn the Jukebox
Oct. 19: Rico and The Ravens
Oct. 20: Bill Haley Jr. and The Comets

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

Oct 21: The Glenn Miller Orchestra

The Stage Door

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

Oct. 11: “The Price is Right Live”
Oct. 15: “STOMP”
Oct. 24: Charlie Berens

The Belmont Theatre
27 S. Belmont St., York
717-854-3894; thebelmont.org

Oct. 18-27: “Clue”

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

Oct. 4-13: “To Kill a Mockingbird”

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

Oct. 4-Nov. 2: “Hairspray”

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

Oct. 2-5: “Sleeping Beauty”
Oct. 18: TMI Improv

Gretna Theatre
Mt. Gretna Playhouse
200 Pennsylvania Ave., Mount Gretna
717-964-3627; gretnatheatre.org

Oct. 10-19: “The Headless Horseman’s Revenge”

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

Oct. 25-26: Shakespeare After Dark

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

Oct. 4: The Divas Down Under “Ghouls Just Wanna Have Fun” Drag Show!
Oct. 4, 5: Monte Allen and Jared Stern

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

Oct. 4, 6: Level 2 Class Show
Oct. 18: The Cliff Hang
Oct. 25: Teenprov Class Show
Oct. 25, 27: Level 1 Class Show

Hershey Area Playhouse
830 Cherry Dr., Hershey
717-533-8525; hersheyareaplayhouse.com

Oct. 17-27: “Legally Blonde”

Hershey Theatre
15 E. Caracas Ave., Hershey
717-534-3405; hersheytheatre.com

Oct. 2: Blippi Join the Band Tour
Oct. 5: Justin Willman
Oct. 11: Dane Cook
Oct. 12-13: Nikki Glaser
Oct. 16: David Sedaris
Oct. 17: Brian Regan
Oct. 19: “Menopause the Musical 2—Cruising Through ‘The Change’”
Oct. 23: “Disney Junior Live on Tour—Let’s Play”
Oct. 29-Nov. 3: “Ain’t Too Proud—The Life and Times of The Temptations”

Imaginary Friends Puppet Theatre
Strawberry Square, Harrisburg
www.puppetfriends.com

“Trick-or-treat Party” all weekends in October
Thursdays/Fridays, 12 p.m., 2 p.m., 4 p.m., 6 p.m.
Saturdays, 11 a.m.,1 p.m., 3 p.m., 5 p.m.

Keystone Theatrics
The Playhouse at Allenberry
1559 Boiling Springs Rd., Boiling Springs
717-258-3211; keystonetheatrics.com

Oct. 11-27: “Little Shop of Horrors”

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

Oct. 11-27: “Dial M for Murder”

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

Oct. 19: “The People Project—At Home in Adams County”

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

Oct. 3-6: “By The Bog of Cats”
Oct. 12-13: “Shoeless Joe”

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

Oct. 12-Nov. 2: “Ride the Cyclone”
Oct. 17-Nov. 1: Court Street Cabaret—Oversung Edition

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

Oct. 4: Teatro Paloma presents “Fade”

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

Oct. 4: Oxymorons Improv Comedy

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

Oct 13: “Mutts Gone Nuts—Unleashed!”
Oct 26: “Two Blondes All Business”

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Heart & Home: Dennise Hill brings her housing expertise, passion to Brethren Housing Association

September 27, 2024 | by Maddie Gittens

Dennise Hill

From the outside looking in, people questioned Dennise Hill’s career change—it didn’t seem like a natural step forward.

However, to Hill, the decision made perfect sense.

A few months ago, she left her city government director position to become executive director of Brethren Housing Association (BHA), a Harrisburg nonprofit that assists single parents and children.

As Hill spoke of the first weeks of her experience at the Hummel Street headquarters, she beamed.

“It felt like I was coming home,” she said. “From one vantage point, it’s not necessarily a promotion in title or anything along those lines, but for me, it absolutely is. I really, really love it.”

Hill, a Steelton native, has worked in the housing and human services field for years, for the YWCA as the director of housing and homelessness services before serving as the director of building and housing development for Harrisburg.

She enjoyed her job with the city, which included a lot of administrative tasks like working with the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) to administer grant funds locally. But, when she heard about the opening for the director position at BHA, she was excited about the opportunity to return to more direct service in the community, she said.

Former director Kait Gillis-Hanna, who served since 2020, reached out to Hill to encourage her to consider the job.

“It was just a really good fit,” Hill said.

In her new role, Hill oversees operations for BHA. The organization has historically offered transitional housing for single mothers and their children experiencing homelessness. Participants attend programming on job training, financial literacy and renter’s education.

“I left direct services to be the voice at the government level […] I wanted to be the voice at the table,” Hill said. “When this opportunity came up, it was like going back. I missed being able to be directly impacting at the organization level.”

Like a Sunflower

Hill’s passion for housing stems from her own life experiences. Growing up, her family’s home was always bustling with neighborhood kids—the “unofficial community center of Steelton,” she said. She admired how involved her parents were in the community.

Hill also faced her own challenges with housing later in life, but always had a strong familial support system to lean on, she explained.

“As I became an adult, I became a parent, and I was able to see just how easy it is to fall into a situation where you need help,” she said. “I really strive to be the person I’ve needed before.”

In her role at BHA, Hill took over leadership of all current operations but also of some new initiatives. One of those is BHA’s program to provide permanent affordable housing to its transitional housing program graduates. The nonprofit now has three units, one in Steelton and two in Harrisburg, that it owns and rents to families based on their income level. One of the three tenants is even going through a rent-to-own program with BHA.

Hill will lead the nonprofit in securing additional properties for this program.

“Permanently affordable housing was created because, after we had families go through one full year, the housing market hasn’t changed, or it may have gotten worse by then,” she said. “So, if there are some barriers that exist, they are better off for going through the transitions program. However, it’s not as simple as, just take the year and you’re right back out there.”

Additionally, BHA is currently transitioning its headquarters from the basement of the First Church of the Brethren to a much larger property across the street.

“It was a well-oiled machine before I got here,” Hill said. “So, I’m very fortunate that I feel like I’m able to use my strengths to elevate the organization.”

As much as Hill felt like BHA was the perfect fit for her, the feeling was mutual for longtime staff.

“When we met with her, it was almost instant,” said Abbey King, director of operations. “Dennise will walk in here and fit in with the staff. She understands the culture of BHA. She has a great vision for the organization.”

As much as Hill loved her previous work at the city, her plate was constantly full. At BHA, she’s still applying for grants and overseeing staff, but she has time to chat with a resident who stops by and snuggle her baby. She also appreciates the faith-based work environment, which she hasn’t experienced before. She’s happy—and ready to share that radiance with those she assists.

“I’m on this new kick of living like a sunflower,” she said. “When you see a sunflower, you can’t help but to be brighter and smile.”

Brethren Housing Association is located at 219 Hummel St., Harrisburg. For more information, visit www.bha-pa.org.

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Getting Funcky: One family has built a growing restaurant group from some of the area’s most popular eateries

September 27, 2024 | by Deborah Lynch

The Funck family isn’t afraid to take chances in a famously fickle industry.

What started as one Tastee Freeze in Palmyra in 1969 has turned into a locally owned, 12-restaurant group, including seven new enterprises in just the past six years.

“I think it’s fun,” said Alan Funck of the expanding restaurant group. “Some of the locations, I’ll stop in every single day.”

It all started with that Tastee Freeze on West Main Street in Palmyra, opened by Alan’s parents, Ray and Ruth Ann, and, in 1983, converted to the original Funck’s. A restaurant near Ft. Indiantown Gap followed and, in 2009, Alan Funck purchased the Mt. Gretna Hideaway, starting his journey to becoming a restaurant group owner.

The bigger growth spurt began in 2016 with the purchase of what became Funck’s in Leola. From there, the family made a flurry of purchases, including many legendary staples of central Pa. dining: The Rising Sun, Snitz Creek Brewery, Quentin Tavern, TJ Rockwell’s, Fredericksburg Eagle Hotel, The Parkside and the former Mt. Gretna Brewing Co.

Today, these restaurants all fall under the umbrella of the Funck’s Restaurant Group. Alan Funck owns some individually and some with his brother, Matt, who also owns one individually. Alan’s wife Victoria also owns some.

While the Funcks operate on a belief that each acquisition should retain its own personality, some purchases have required changes—some quite significant and some ongoing or still to happen. For instance, while Funcks has already expanded parking and given The Parkside an exterior facelift, a complete renovation is in the works.

Over in Campbelltown, The Rising Sun underwent a total restoration, complete with an exposed brick, stone and beam interior. That was followed by a renovation of the next-door property, turning another historic building into an indoor/outdoor space with a professionally landscaped and tiled courtyard between the two buildings.

“We ended up with a great atmosphere there,” Alan Funck said. “People enjoy it. The guests really just love what we’re doing.”

Many of the Funcks’ properties feature outdoor dining. The Hideaway, Quentin Tavern and TJ Rockwell’s were known for outdoor decks and patios long before COVID dining came along.

“The thing I love most about those properties is each one kind of keeps their own characteristics,” said Jennifer Kuzo, president of Visit Lebanon Valley. “They aren’t a cookie-cutter stamp. Each has its own personality.”

Rewarding

The National Restaurant Association estimates that some 60% of restaurants fail within their first year. So, how has Funcks avoided becoming part of that grim statistic?

“People who have been in business a long time are stable,” Alan Funck said.

He added that, when making an acquisition, it’s vital to do the right thing with the new property.

“We can take something and make it different, but some like Rockwell’s already have a strong business,” he said. “The Rising Sun, I could grow it. It costs a lot to convert into a different kind of restaurant.”

Valued employees are key to Funck’s success. In peak summertime, more than 700 people are employed among the 12 properties.

Alex Eby is one of those long-time, dedicated employees.

After working a year at the original Funck’s in Palmyra, Eby pitched in when the company bought The Rising Sun in 2018—sanding tables, cleaning and starting as a server, then bartender, and, after the first year, general manager. Funck noticed Eby’s hard work and commitment and rewarded it.

“I love it,” Eby said. “I like being a manager that works for a company so that I can take care of other employees. From bartenders to dishwashers, they feel proud to work here.”

Eby noted the importance of trying new things, special menus, and always trying to be a step ahead.

“The only way it fails is if you become complacent,” he said.

Add to that smart, strategic acquisitions, the strength of the family cooperative and the attention to detail at each restaurant.

“It takes a lot of time,” Alan Funck said, “but it’s rewarding.”

For more information on Funck’s Restaurant Group, visit www.funcksrestaurantgroup.com.

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Runoff Cutoff: Rain gardens foster health for waterways, beauty for yards

September 27, 2024 | by M. Diane McCormick

Step into Steve Tambolas’ backyard to see his “labor of love.”

“Here’s my little bit of paradise,” he said. “When we moved here, it was all grass.”

Now, the Susquehanna Township yard is a green haven. Tiered gardens bordered by stone walls hug the slope. Look more closely, and those beds of flowers and shrubs are actually rain gardens, designed to prevent stormwater runoff from cascading into the headwaters of the Paxton Creek below.

In homes and communities, area residents and groups are installing rain gardens or water-loving plants to help ease pressure on the region’s aging stormwater systems. In the process, they are greening their surroundings and, they say, playing their part in battling climate change.

“When rain falls, it’s always best if you can mimic its natural pathway and have it infiltrate as close as where it hits the ground,” said Susquehanna River Basin Commission (SRBC) Deputy Executive Director Andrew Gavin. “That really points to individual property owners as a first line of defense in preventing stormwater problems.”

Why Rain Gardens

First, know the “why” of rain gardens, said Tambolas. Cities grew up along rivers. With skyrocketing populations come pavement and roofs, which send polluted rainwater runoff into overburdened water systems and prevent it from reaching rivers and streams.

“It’s all about runoff. Period,” Tambolas said. “I no longer see rain gardens as something nice to have, but rather, I believe it’s become almost a necessary strategy for the way we design our yards and around our homes.”

Many people view rain gardens through the lens of curb bump outs that scrape their cars, but they should know that stormwater problems affect everyone, said Harrisburg community activist Rafiyqa Muhammad.

Rafiyqa Muhammad. Photo courtesy of the Chesapeake Bay Foundation.

In 2018, Muhammad worked with the Chesapeake Bay Foundation to install community rain gardens in the city’s economically challenged Allison Hill neighborhood.

“There’s a lot of stuff we still need to update our community about when it comes to rain gardens and to remind people that we are a flood city,” she said. “Harrisburg was built on the river. I’ve been through a couple floods where I lost everything. That right there is enough. Water rises. Where are you gonna go?”

Even Allison Hill regularly floods from now-commonplace gullywashers.

“When did we have floods on top of a hill?” Muhammad said. “But we have old infrastructure.”

Citywide, Capital Region Water works with community groups to install neighborhood rain gardens. Strategically placed and designed, many target high-risk areas, such as blocks where greenery is scarce, concrete is abundant, and roads create salty, oily runoff.

These are not your father’s rain gardens, if your dad happened to have one. Below the surface, networks of pipes, tanks and stone formations, depending on the site, trap and hold excess rainwater to be released into the ground or eased out to prevent it from overwhelming Harrisburg’s obsolete combined sewer-stormwater system.

At the city’s 4th & Dauphin Park, the basketball courts are porous, and gaps between stone pavers let water pass through. A pair of rain gardens facing the sidewalk are specially drained to slow the intake of downbursts. A young tree that tapped into the underground water source is thriving, in contrast to scraggly trees struggling up from the sidewalk across the street.

“It’s wild how well plants and trees do when they’re given the right conditions, even in an urban environment,” said Capital Region Water City Beautiful H20 Manager Claire Maulhardt.

Grass Power

CRW leans into community support for neighborhood projects, but Maulhardt sees individuals contributing by “doing the best they can on their own properties. That’s going to make them more resilient to weather conditions as well as other conditions of climate change, like heat islands, heat-related illnesses and air quality.”

To get started, rethink grass, suggests Maulhardt. Lawns are great for recreational activities, she said, but with their shallow roots, rain sheets off during heavy storms.

As an alternative, she pointed to the tough, deep-rooting sedges and rushes planted at 4th & Dauphin. Giving a hardy bunch of rushes a tug, she noted that “the force of water coming in here can be intense sometimes, and this really holds up.”

Maulhardt encourages residents to plant “meadow instead of lawn. Once you establish it, a meadow can be easier to maintain.”

For rain garden initiates, Capital Region Water offers Adopt-A-Rain Garden, which invites community groups to volunteer for basic site support while also receiving free resources and education. Individual property owners can even get a credit toward stormwater fees in exchange for installing stormwater controls, “because you’ve actually implemented something that helps our system and minimizes your impact,” said Maulhardt.

Steve Tambolas and his gardens.

Getting Started

Algebra. Sorry, but that’s where sizing an effective home rain garden starts, said Tambolas, the Susquehanna Township homeowner and Penn State Extension master gardener. The calculation accounts for average annual rainfall, size of the roof, and digging depth as determined by a DIY percolation (perc) test that reveals the ground’s absorption rate.

Tambolas relies on detailed instructions from thisoldhouse.com: “How to build a rain garden to filter runoff.” It’s worth checking out just for the idyllic picture of an oval rain garden bursting with black-eyed Susans and coneflowers (native plants, people).

The SRBC designed Tambolas’ high-capacity rain garden in the early 2000s as it educated homeowners about the growing problem of runoff. Native plants, including hydrangea and blue mist flowers, connect to a drip irrigation system, which is available online and easy to install, he said. His system runs on a timer, but that’s not a necessity. Anyone can turn on the faucet and turn it off 20 minutes later.

“You just watered your garden,” he said.

Rain barrels are “an absolute must” in Tambolas’ system. Even people who don’t have space for a rain garden can install rain barrels to collect and control roof runoff, he said.

Tambolas caught the eye of SRBC for a demonstration site because the headwaters of famously flood-prone Paxton Creek border the base of his yard. Headwaters are “where stormwater starts to gain the momentum to cause problems,” Gavin said. There along the stream, Tambolas has created a meditation spot abundant with statuary, trees, a riparian buffer and deep-rooted plants.

“I kinda went overboard on the ferns, but they spread very quickly,” he said.

With its eco-friendly landscaping, Tambolas’ yard is not just a rain garden. It’s also a certified wildlife and pollinator habitat. An oak tree hosts 400 species of “beneficial insects” that feed birds. The native smooth hydrangea is “nothing spectacular, but you should see the pollinators that go all over this thing.” Milkweed sustains butterflies by providing a place to plant their young.

“A lot of native insects are totally dependent on one or two plants,” he said.

A Changing Outlook

Homeowners wondering how they can contribute to stormwater management can start by cleaning the litter that clutters the stormwater system, said Muhammad. From there, she suggests choosing flowers and plants with “wet feet”—the ones that thrive in wet soil while they hold and filter water, such as daylily, bleeding heart and blue phlox.

“There is a lot of education to do, but it’s going to take a minute,” she said.

Rain garden proponents agree: As the look of yards changes, mindsets must also change. A rain garden or corner meadow isn’t an overgrown patch but an instrumental factor in managing water resources. Minds will change as people see greening neighborhoods become more active and livable, said Capital Region Water Community Outreach Manager CJ McDougald.

Added Maulhardt, “The world around us is a living system, and it requires maintenance and care. It’s a necessity and something we should be doing globally as well as locally. It starts here.”

Get to Know Rain Gardens

For more information on the organizations mentioned in this story, visit:

Penn State Extension, extension.psu.edu
Capital Region Water, capitalregionwater.com
Susquehanna River Basin Commission, srbc.gov
Paxton Creek Watershed & Education Association, paxtoncreek.org (Tambolas presents a rain garden seminar on Oct. 7.)

Stories on environmental topics are proudly sponsored by LCSWMA.

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Steel City Season: Ideas for a fall jaunt to Pittsburgh

September 27, 2024 | by Stephanie Kalina-Metzger

Phipps Conservatory

Located at the confluence of the Monongahela, Allegheny and Ohio rivers, the vibrant city of Pittsburgh, once known for its steel industry, has earned a reputation not only as a tech hub, but also for its sports teams.

So, what’s a person like me, who reads during baseball games, to do in the area? Well, it turns out, there’s plenty.

Pittsburgh is also known for its delicious food, its world-class museums, its funky strip district and a beautiful conservatory that celebrates every season of the year with a bold explosion of color.

Fall is an especially lovely time to visit the area, when the air is crisp and the leaves are turning, especially after the brutal summer we all experienced.

The Phipps Conservatory

I recommend the Phipps Conservatory as stop number one. The Phipps, which dates to 1893, was a gift to the city from philanthropist Henry Phipps and has been described as one of Pittsburgh’s “crown jewels.”

Beginning on Oct. 5, Phipps’ fall flower show theme is “Rhythm and Blooms” and celebrates music’s many genres, from classical to rock to jazz to hip hop, with colorful chrysanthemums stealing the show. The hip-hop-themed Serpentine Room, alive with neon mums and graffiti described as “show-stopping,” should be enough to pique anyone’s curiosity.

Opening on the same day is “Garden Railroad: Movie Magic,” which unveils a miniature world replete with pirates, zombies and more.

Carnegie Museum of Natural History

The Carnegie Museum of Natural History, founded by wealthy industrialist/philanthropist Andrew Carnegie, touts an astounding collection of 22 million specimens—10,000 of which are on view at any given time.

A family favorite, the destination features an array of dinosaurs and mammals, fossils, mummies and more, appealing to guests of all ages. The museum is also known for having one of the world’s best dinosaur collections and introducing “Dippy,” the first-ever Tyrannosaurus Rex skeleton, to the public.

The Hall of Gems is particularly fascinating for its abundance of rocks and minerals ranging from volcanic rocks to radioactive specimens that glow under ultraviolet light.

Carnegie Museum of Art

The Carnegie Museum of Art, located in the same building as the Museum of Natural History, boasts 30,000 works of art in its collection. Artists run the gamut from Van Gogh to Matisse, Picasso, Renoir, Warhol and more.

Visitors will find about 140 plaster casts in the Hall of Architecture that date back to 1907 and represent art from all around the world. The hall was created to align with Carnegie’s philosophy of bringing art to a populace that was unable to afford to travel to see the real items.

The Frick

The Frick Pittsburgh Museums and Gardens is located on 5.5 acres of land in the Point Breeze neighborhood.

The art collection includes paintings, sculptures and decorative arts from the Renaissance through the 19th century and includes works by Peter Paul Rubens and Jean-Francois Millet, among others.

Visitors can also tour the family abode called Clayton, dine at the Café at the Frick, and enjoy viewing an antique car collection.

One of the best parts about The Frick is that viewing everything, from Clayton to the car collection, is free.

Good Eats

The Strip District is known for its bargain prices and food places. The one-half-square-mile shopping district is chock-a-block with sidewalk vendors, restaurants, produce stands and grocers who sell a diverse range of food, like Greek and Chinese fare, for instance.

The fall is another wonderful time to take a leisurely walk with Sylvia McCoy on her “Burgh Bits & Bites” food tour. One of the small local businesses that McCoy highlights is Stamoolis Brothers Co., which has been a Steel City staple since 1909. The shop exudes old world charm and was founded by five brothers who hail from Greece and made their way to Pittsburgh via New York. Among the items offered are Greek dinners, feta cheese, Kalamata olives and more. Connie and Catina, who inherited the store from their father, Gus, typically greet tour-goers with a Greek sampler plate.

Those in the mood for something novel may want to check out Church Brew Works in the Lawrenceville neighborhood. The restaurant operates in the former St. John the Baptist Church, which was built in 1902 and closed in 1993. In 1996, the eatery opened and has been operating as a brewery and restaurant ever since. I must admit that it’s just a little unsettling to see brew tanks in the pulpit area.

One last suggestion is a visit to Spork, a restaurant in the gritty Garfield district. I have since decided that it ranks among my top-10 places to eat in Pennsylvania. Everything was excellent, from the creative cocktails to the amuse-bouche and the entrees. I especially recommend the elk Bolognese. And if you’ve had a smoked cocktail before with a cloche trapping the smoke inside, you may be interested to see Spork’s take on it. Hint: It involves popping a bubble.

And if you just happen to also be a sports fan, you can take the popular 90-minute tour of PNC Park, view the Western Pa. Sports Museum, and catch a game at the Acrisure Stadium.

This barely touches the surface of things to do in Pittsburgh. So much more can be easily added to an itinerary for a fun-packed fall visit that combines a rich history with the vibrancy of modern life.

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Community Corner: Notable October Events

September 27, 2024 | by Missy Smith

October Community Corner

Scavenger Hunt
Oct. 1-31: Through October, hit the trails and explore fall at the Ned Smith Center, 176 Water Company Rd., Millersburg, with a self-guided activity. Pick up a passport at the trailhead and follow the map to find all the exploration stations. www.nedsmithcenter.org

Hallo-Read
Oct. 1-31: Kids are invited to participate in a Hallo-Read challenge at New Cumberland Public Library, 1 Benjamin Plaza. Register at your local library and start logging your reading minutes. As you progress, you’ll earn “eerie badges.” Complete the challenge and receive a free book. www.newcumberlandlibrary.org

Farm Market
Oct. 2, 9, 16, 23, 30: Stock up on fresh, local produce before the season ends at The Hill Farm Market, open every Wednesday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at 110 S. 17th St., Harrisburg. www.wildheartministries.net

Over the Edge
Oct. 4: Rappel from the rooftop of 200 N. 3rd St. in downtown Harrisburg. Raise funds and awareness for Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Capital Region’s one-to-one youth mentoring programs. www.capbigs.org

Business Day
Oct. 4: Wildheart Ministries hosts a Business Day Out at 333 S. 13th St., Harrisburg, 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. Bring your business and come help with cleanup projects within the community of South Allison Hill. www.lovethehillpa.com

Harvestfest
Oct. 4-5: Enjoy the fall season at Big Valley Harvestfest at Mifflin County Youth Park, 110 W. Logan St., Reedsville. Event features artisans and vendors that sell crafts, natural products, seasonal items, apples, cider, flowers and food. www.visitbigvalley.com

Bird House
Oct. 5: Join Wildwood Park, 100 Wildwood Way, Harrisburg, for birdhouse construction and design, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Bring your creativity to construct a bluebird box, paint a natural birdhouse gourd, and design your own songbird ornament. www.explorewildwoodpark.org

HBG Flea
Oct. 5: Shop the HBG Flea for local art, vintage treasures, curated curios and unique gifts, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., at Midtown Cinema, 250 Reily 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 Fest
Oct. 5: Chocolate Town Book Festival will be held at Hershey Public Library, 701 Cocoa Ave., Hershey, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., to connect readers and local writers. More than 50 PA authors will be in attendance at Book Fest to sign and sell books. www.hersheylibrary.org

Arts Festival
Oct. 5: Enjoy live music on three stages, kids’ activities, poetry readings, workshops, demonstrations, food vendors and more at the free annual Little Buffalo Festival, held at Little Buffalo State Park, Newport, 12 to 6 p.m. www.littlebuffalofestival.org

Community Pop-Ups
Oct. 5-27: Join Consciousness Coffee, 1 Lemoyne Square, Suite 108, Lemoyne for their “Community Consciousness” pop-up events happening every Saturday and Sunday in October. This is a great opportunity to support a local business and enjoy a fun, community-oriented experience. www.consciousnesscoffee.com

Woods Walk
Oct. 6: Join Manada Conservancy and Dauphin County Woodland Owners Association for the annual Walk in Penn’s Woods at Detweiler Park, 1451 Peters Mountain Rd., Dauphin, 1 to 3 p.m. Explore the park’s woodland, flora and fauna and get updates on the park’s development. www.manada.org

Fall Meet Week
Oct. 8-11: Discover high-performance cars during the Eastern Regional Fall Meet, Hershey’s annual antique car show and festival. View period automobiles, see demonstrations and visit a flea market. On Oct. 8, attend the “Night at the Museum” dinner and reception at AACA Museum, 161 Museum Dr., Hershey. www.hershey.aaca.com

Book Festival
Oct. 9-13: Midtown Scholar Bookstore, 1302 N. 3rd St., Harrisburg, hosts the 12th annual Harrisburg Book Festival. Browse more than 20,000 used books and meet and hear from best-selling authors. On Oct. 12, kids can enjoy story time, face painting and activities. www.hbgbookfest.com

Walk and Talk
Oct. 11: Enjoy a Walk and Talk with a Penn State Extension Master Gardener at Detweiler Park, 1451 Peters Mountain Rd., Dauphin. Explore the park’s demonstration gardens to learn about blooming flowers and local insects, 10 to 11 a.m. www.extension.psu.edu

African Choir
Oct. 11: Enjoy a concert with The African Children’s Choir at Messiah University, 1 University Ave., Mechanicsburg, 7:30 p.m. Featuring talented children, ages 7 to 10, the choir sings popular children’s music, traditional spiritual songs and African cultural pieces, showcasing resilience and potential for a brighter future. www.africanchildrenschoir.com

Stargazing
Oct. 11: Join a naturalist for an evening exploring the night sky at Detweiler Park, 1451 Peters Mountain Rd., Dauphin, 8 to 10 p.m. Learn the myths of constellations and discover the basics of astrophotography. www.explorewildwoodpark.org

Curiosity Kids
Oct. 11, 25: Kids ages 3 to 6 can learn about dinosaurs on Oct. 11 and about light on Oct. 25 at the State Museum of PA, 300 North St., Harrisburg, 11:30 a.m. to 12 p.m. Curiosity Kids events are included with museum general admission. www.statemuseumpa.org

Volunteer Day
Oct. 12: Enjoy the outdoors and help with park and habitat enhancement projects at Wildwood Park, 100 Wildwood Way, Harrisburg, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Tools and work gloves provided and refreshments available. www.explorewildwoodpark.org

Choctoberfest
Oct. 12: Choctoberfest returns to ChocolateTown Square Park, Hershey, with food, live music, beer, food and chocolate and activities for all ages, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. www.downtownhershey.com

Pumpkin Fest
Oct. 12-13: Visit the Pennsboro Pumpkin Fest with crafts, commercial displays, church groups, music, a variety of food, contests and kids’ activities at Adams-Ricci Park, Enola. This year, the festival features about 180 vendors, including community groups, businesses and craft vendors. www.eastpennsboro.net

Pumpkin Express
Oct. 12-27: Rockhill Trolley Museum and East Broad Top Railroad, 421 Meadow St., Rockhill, hosts the Great Pumpkin Patch Express. Put on your Halloween costume and join Charlie Brown and Snoopy for a fall train ride. Have fun with Peanuts-themed activities on a vintage trolley, pick out a pumpkin, shop with vendors and more. www.eastbroadtop.com

PBCC Conference
Oct. 15: PA Breast Cancer Coalition celebrates its 30th anniversary at the 2023 PA Breast Cancer Coalition Conference at Hilton Harrisburg, 1 N. 2nd St., 7:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. PBCC will turn the State Capitol East Wing fountain pink and offer milkshakes at 11 a.m. www.pbcc.me/conference

Food Rally
Oct. 17: Enjoy fresh, savory foods at the New Cumberland Food Truck & Restaurant Rally every second Thursday of the month, 5 to 8 p.m. Grab dinner from food trucks or New Cumberland restaurants and enjoy shopping and special promotions. www.newcumberlandpa.org

3rd in The Burg
Oct. 18: 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

Art Show
Oct. 18-20: Paxtang Art Association hosts its annual art show and sale at Paxtang Firehouse, 3423 Derry St., 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Friday and Saturday and 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Sunday. Explore more than 500 pieces of original art in many mediums. Meet the artists on Oct. 18, 6 to 8 p.m. www.paxtangartassociation.godaddysites.com

Harvest Party
Oct. 19: Enjoy Wildheart Ministries’ Fall Block Party at The Hill Farm, 213 S. 18th St., Harrisburg, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Come out and help at the farm, while having fun with neighbors in Allison Hill. www.lovethehillpa.com

Zembo Tour
Oct. 19: Historic Harrisburg Association invites the community to take a step back in time to explore the Zembo Shrine, 3rd and Division streets, Harrisburg, on a unique walking tour that continues to Italian Lake, 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. Tickets are $25 (general admission). www.historicharrisburg.org

Fall Harvest
Oct. 19: Central Penn College, 600 Valley Rd., Summerdale, celebrates fall with food trucks, live music, face painting, children’s games, vendor booths and more at its annual Fall Harvest, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Admission is free, with many activities offered at no cost. www.centralpenn.edu

Nature at Night
Oct. 19: Take an after-hours walk through the Olewine Nature Center at Wildwood Park, 100 Wildwood Way, Harrisburg, to watch exhibit hall critters come to life, 5:30 to 8 p.m. Make s’mores and sip apple cider and enjoy a Halloween story. Dress in costume and bring a trick-or-treat bag. www.explorewildwoodpark.org

Art Tour
Oct. 19-20: The sixth annual Hershey Hummelstown Art Studio Tour features 14 Hershey/Hummelstown artists who open their spaces to the public. Visitors can tour studios, watch demonstrations and purchase art on Oct. 19, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Oct. 20, 12 to 5 p.m. www.hersheyhummelstownarttour.com

Author Talk
Oct. 20: New Cumberland Library, 1 Benjamin Plaza, hosts a lecture and book signing with Allen J. Dieterich-Ward, author of “Cradle of Conservation: An Environmental History of Pennsylvania,” at 3 p.m. He will explore the state’s environmental journey, from early conservation efforts to contemporary challenges. www.newcumberlandlibrary.org

Dance Night
Oct. 20: Dance enthusiasts are invited to join Harrisburg USA Dance Chapter #3009 for instruction and social dancing at PA DanceSport, 585 E. Main St., Hummelstown. Learn swing from 2 to 3 p.m. and enjoy social dancing from 3 to 6 p.m. Admission is $15, $10 for members and $5 for students. Facebook: USA Dance Chapter #3009—Harrisburg Area PA

Pray about the Election
Oct. 26: All are welcome to come and pray about the election at the Paxtang Borough Hall, 3423 Derry Street. Drop in any time from 7:30 am to 9:30 am. Stay as long or as short as you like. Pray silently or out loud, in a group or by yourself. BYOC – bring your own coffee (or tea or whatever). This is non-partisan. Please do not say anything for or against any party or person or wear partisan attire. Questions? Contact Andy Saylor 717-307-7787

Fall Festival
Oct. 26: Learning Moore through Nature and Play hosts a free fall festival with drum-making, a drum circle, pumpkin carving, fire dancers, s’mores and more. Event takes place 5 to 8 p.m. at 248N N. Fairville Ave., Harrisburg. www.learningmoore2.wixsite.com/learningmoorethr

Home Gardening
Oct. 26: Join Penn State Extension for their Home Gardening Series at Wildwood Park, 100 Wildwood Way, Harrisburg, to learn how to add color, texture and biodiversity to your fall and shade gardens. Attend virtually or in-person, 9:30 to 11 a.m. www.extension.psu.edu

Landmark Tour
Oct. 26: Journey through local history with the Historic Harrisburg Association’s tour of Harrisburg State Hospital, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Led by Facilities and Property Manager Fuller Runyan, the tour explores the extensive campus before its closure next year. www.historicharrisburg.org

Treat Trek
Oct. 27: Kids ages 12 and younger are invited to Fort Hunter Mansion and Park, 100 Fort Hunter Rd., Harrisburg, for the annual Trick or Treat Trek, 2 to 5 p.m. Come dressed in costume, take a trek and follow clues to find goodies at stops along the way. www.forthunter.org

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October Publisher’s Note

September 27, 2024 | by Lawrance Binda

A wonderful part of my job is getting to meet people from around the country and around the world.

I don’t even have to go anywhere—they come to me.

Over the summer, people from Massachusetts, Ohio and Virginia all passed through our storefront door in Midtown Harrisburg. Over the years, we’ve had visitors from states like California, Florida and Texas, as well as countries like Canada, Germany and Ukraine.

These aren’t scheduled visits. They’re just people who pop in to see what we’re about or who want advice on things to do in the city.

I ask them why they’re in Harrisburg, and their answers are always interesting. They’re visiting family. They exited the highway for a bite to eat. They’re here for a wedding or party. We’ve had a few people drop in because they were thinking about moving here.

In August, a brother and sister, one who lives in New England and the other in the Midwest, selected Harrisburg as a midway meeting point. They were walking down the street, saw our merch in the window and decided they had to buy a Burg sweatshirt. Another guy said he hopped off the train, on a whim, for a quick jaunt around town.

I mention this because most residents probably don’t think of Harrisburg as a hotspot for out-of-state visitors and, sure, it’s no Las Vegas. But I can personally attest that we get our share of tourists, wanderers and day-trippers. So, if you see a guy sauntering around downtown, looking a little lost, steer him to the Capitol or the riverfront or to a good restaurant and, just maybe, word will spread from there.

This month, October, is actually a big tourist time throughout central Pa, given all the harvest festivals, leaf-peepers and seasonal events. We have a few ideas of our own in this issue, along with our usual mix of community news, business profiles, dining stories and cultural features.

Many people tell me that October is their favorite month of the year—the cooler weather, the changing leaves. I hope you find something unique and fun to this month, starting right here with TheBurg, always a great place to launch your search.

Lawrance Binda
Publisher/Editor

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