Harrisburg River Rescue to benefit from “Berry Bash,” a new charitable event

September 17, 2024 | by Lawrance Binda

Every year, Harrisburg River Rescue volunteers rush down to the Susquehanna to help save endangered boaters and swimmers.

Now, you have a chance to return the favor, while having a good time, as a new fundraiser is being organized to benefit this worthy organization.

On Tuesday, Sara Bozich and Harristown Enterprises announced the inaugural Berry Bash, which will take place in Strawberry Square on Oct. 26.

“My vision is to create an event that people are genuinely excited to attend with the feel-good bonus of giving back,” said Bozich, the event organizer.

The Berry Bash was inspired by the Strawberry Ball, a popular event from a quarter-century ago, Bozich said.

The event’s theme will be “dress up or dress up,” encouraging guests to don either costumes, cocktail attire, or a mix of both, with “best dressed” contests as a highlight.

For the night, Strawberry Square will be decorated in a red and black color scheme, and the local party band, Funktion, will play on the new UPMC Clock Box Stage. The JDK Group Catering & Events will provide heavy hors d’oeuvres stations, passed desserts and two bars.

Tickets are priced at $85 per person or $150 per couple. Proceeds will directly support the volunteer-run, nonprofit Harrisburg River Rescue & Emergency Services.

Berry Bash takes place on Saturday, Oct. 26, from 7 to 10 p.m., in the atrium of Strawberry Square in downtown Harrisburg. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit the event website.

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Bob’s Art Blog: September’s Song, Off the Beaten Path

September 17, 2024 | by Bob MacGinnes

It’s that special time of year when the calendar flipped to September before we knew it, and the glorious kaleidoscope of color that lies ahead. The kids are back in school and Labor Day’s end of summer salute foretold the changing of the seasons. “September Song” sounds sweet to all the senses, “as the days become shorter and the leaves turn to flame…September, remember”…that art lies in the heart everywhere you look. The fall forecast is full of thought-provoking, awe-inspiring art. 3rd in the Burg’s bough for September breaks just days from now.

“Reconvered Pieces” by Andrea Lapioli

If you are art lovers of a certain age, you may want to start your 3rd in the Burg activities early like we do, say a midafternoon date for the State Museum at 300 North St. Its latest exhibit, new as of Gallery Walk Sunday, is the 57th edition of the annual “Art of the State” juried exhibition. In all, over $5,000 in cash prizes were awarded to a select group of statewide artists across five categories that included painting, work on paper, sculpture, craft and photography/digital media. A total of 96 works from 96 artists culled from 28 counties throughout the state were chosen from over 2,200 entries. The winners represent the cream of the crop as chosen by a group of discerning judges. Local artist Angela Lapioli took first place in the painting category. Her abstract work, titled “Recovered Pieces,” is an acrylic on canvas that garnered the Elizabethtown resident top honors. Lapioli’s paintings feature diverse approaches, moving from the abstract to more figurative styles. She employs acrylics, collage and oil, as well as cold wax. The museum closes its doors at 4:30 p.m. so give yourself a good hour to walk and view “Art of the State.” The exhibit closes Jan. 5 in the new year.

Rubicon and Mangia Qui in Harrisburg

Afterwards, an early dinner may be just the ticket. So close to the museum it lies doors away at 270-272 North St., Mangia Qui/Rubicon, an epicurean’s delight. First seating for reservations starts at 5 p.m. This Italian fine dining establishment’s reputation places it among the top of any gourmand’s list for a memorable evening of a sumptuous repast. The restaurant is enhanced throughout by art to complete the experience. Mangia Qui translates to “eat here.” While there, be sure to tell Qui Qui Musarra, Mangia Qui’s co-owner and chef, that Ted and Linda Walke of Gallery@2nd heartily recommended her establishment as the go-to place on the way to their art emporium.

Harrisburg’s hidden gem of an art address is Ted’s gallery found at 608 N. 2nd St. in a handsome, Federal-style building. The destination is referenced in Ken Frew’s book, “Building Harrisburg.” The house was built by a brick mason and his son’s way back in 1839. Owner-proprietor and artist in residence, Ted’s approach to ambiance affords two floors devoted to his ink-and-acrylic-on-wood renderings, with one for local artists on an invitational guest list. Ted is erudite and articulate especially when waxing lyrical about art. Gallery@2nd has been in operation since 2010 and is open to the public on 3rd in the Burg evenings and by appointment. Ted’s niche nouveau nonpareil “notes” navigate the lowbrow appeal of pulp comics, masterfully mixing surreal scenes with his alter ego, “Munkybear” an art animal who takes the guard rails off. It’s an experience you don’t want to miss.

“Yellow Magnolias,” fabric art by Barbara Passeri-Warfel

Noteworthy news of a grand reopening for the fall season finds Sunday, Sept. 29 marked on the calendar as Arts on the Square, located at Market Square Presbyterian Church, unveils guest artist, Barbara Passeri-Warfel. Her mixed media, fiber art and paintings provide the centerpiece for an opening afternoon reception at the church at 20 S. 2nd St., from 12:15 p.m. to 1:30 p.m., upstairs in Geneva Hall. Under the leadership of art gallery director, Beth Hager, the church is excited to start its season, which will continue into the new year. Passeri-Warfel expertly weaves the tapestry of the everyday elevating it to a new level of fine art. A highlight of the show is her fabric art masterpiece, “Yellow Magnolias.” The exhibit runs through Dec. 29.

Fall officially arrives this Sunday at 8:44 a.m. Get an early start in style at anyone of the 40 galleries, museums, restaurants, clubs, bar and bistros that comprise the Harrisburg Arts District in Midtown, downtown and all around the square.

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11th Annual Latino Ball to Recognize Lo Mejor de lo Mejor Award Winners on September 28 in Harrisburg

September 16, 2024 | by Admin

Hosted by Latino Connection, the 11th Annual Latino Ball will take place on Saturday, September 28 at the Hilton Harrisburg. As the highlight of this prestigious cultural celebration, the Lo Mejor de lo Mejor (best of the best) Awards will recognize three individuals as Community Leader, Humanitarian, and Workforce Champion for their efforts and achievements toward the betterment of their communities.

“Every year we raise the bar on the experience we aim to deliver through the sights, sounds, tastes, and energy we aim to create through this one-of-a-kind cultural celebration. And every year it exceeds all expectations,” says George Fernandez, CEO of Color & Culture and Latino Connection. “It is truly an honor to be able to elevate Latino culture while giving our incredible award winners a platform for their life-changing work.”

The LMLM Awards were founded in 2013 when Fernandez partnered with TheBurg magazine to create an opportunity to honor businesses and corporations for their ongoing efforts to provide excellent customer service to Latinos in South Central Pennsylvania. LMLM has since grown into a statewide celebration, becoming what is now known as the Latino Ball, the region’s largest and most prestigious Latino event.

This year’s winners make up an impressive class of influencers and leaders whose work is creating equitable opportunities and forward-thinking change. The Humanitarian Award recipient is Rev. Lorina Marshall-Blake, President of the Independence Blue Cross Foundation. The Community Leader of the Year is Johanny Cepeda-Freytiz, Representative of the 129th Legislative District, Pennsylvania House of Representatives. The Workforce Champion is Rafael Torres, Founder of Working to Empower People for Advancement (WEPA) Center.

_{Rev. Lorina Marshall-Blake}

“Jefferson Health Plans is proud to sponsor the Latino Ball and celebrate the incredible achievements of this year’s Lo Mejor de lo Mejor Award recipients,” said Denise Napier, CEO, Jefferson Health Plans. “This event highlights the strength, resilience, and vibrant culture of the Latino community, and we are honored to be part of it. Together with Latino Connection, we are committed to advancing health equity and ensuring that all communities have access to the care and resources they deserve.”

_{Johanny Cepeda-Freytiz}

The award recipients will be honored and given the opportunity to share remarks with attendees. The event will also feature vibrant décor, a decadent menu, and unique entertainment inspired by this year’s theme: Spain. More information about tickets and sponsorship opportunities can be found by visiting https://latinoball.org.

_{Rafael Torres}

Sponsored Content

The Week that Was: News and Features around Harrisburg

September 13, 2024 | by Lawrance Binda and Maddie Gittens

Gloria Vázquez Merrick of the Latino Hispanic American Community Center

It looks like a busy, beautiful weekend ahead. Before you head out the door, catch up on our news from last week, all listed and linked below.

“Cabaret” opened to a rapt audience at Theatre Harrisburg’s Krevsky Center last weekend. In her review, our theater writer describes why this show is so special.

Coda Rouge is a new Harrisburg restaurant in an elegant setting. In our magazine feature, we explain the owner’s unexpected journey from contractor to restaurateur.

Family outings are even more fun in the spectacular weather of September. Our “Adventure Together” columnist has several great ideas for a very promising weekend.

Fleetwood Mac is in focus at Open Stage’s musical tribute to the iconic 1970s-era rock band. Discover the story behind the show and what to expect if you attend, from our magazine feature.

Gallery Walk 2024 is in the books, and it was one for the ages, says our arts blogger. In his latest post, he reviews how the day went for several key art venues in Harrisburg.

Harrisburg-area home sales and prices ticked higher in August, according to the latest report on previously owned houses. Check out the latest data in our online story.

Harrisburg City Council had a lengthy list of questions about a city emergency declaration, and the administration countered with a terse response. Our online story outlines what the dispute is about.

Latino Hispanic American Community Center has a new home and new energy, says our magazine feature. LHACC kicks off National Hispanic Heritage month with a parade and festival this weekend.

Matt Maisel, Harrisburg’s director of communications, announced that he’ll be leaving his post, according to our online story. Find out what’s next for one of the city’s most visible public figures.

Public Safety Day took place last week in Strawberry Square in downtown Harrisburg, said our online story. The midday event gave the public information on staying safe and even offered leads for pursuing a career in the field.

Sara Bozich has a busy weekend ahead, celebrating the 25th anniversary of Whitaker Center. Find out about these and many other events in her Weekend Roundup.

Whitaker Center celebrated its silver anniversary all week long, capped off with a block party and gala this weekend. A recent Q&A with the executive director touches on where the downtown arts and science center has been and where it’s going.

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Harrisburg sends $1 million to local shelters to expand capacity, service

September 13, 2024 | by Lawrance Binda

Downtown Daily Bread in Harrisburg

Harrisburg has sent $1 million to two local shelters so they can expand services for the unhoused.

On Friday, the city announced that Downtown Daily Bread and Christian Churches United each received $500,000 to increase capacity at their overnight shelters and expand them from seasonal to year-round, starting on Nov. 1.

On Tuesday, City Council, by a 6-1 vote, approved a budget transfer that reallocated the money, which originated with the city’s share of American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds. In July, the city had announced its intention to offer this money to the two shelters.

“This money will be able to help address our city’s growing unhoused population immediately,” said Mayor Wanda Williams.

Previously, both downtown shelters operated only during the cold-weather months, from Dec. 1 to March 31.

“It has always been a hope of mine to be able to provide overnight shelter for our neighbors all year round,” said Corrie Lingenfelter, executive director of Downtown Daily Bread.

The city considered the shelter expansion vital as Harrisburg’s largest homeless encampment is situated on land that PennDOT expects to occupy as it replaces the South Bridge, starting next year. That encampment is underneath the current bridge and on adjacent property.

“We are grateful for this opportunity to be able to expand our services to those dealing with
homelessness,” said Darrel Reinford, executive director at Christian Churches United. “Providing a safe place for someone to sleep is essential to provide them with some measure of dignity and help them get back on their feet.”

The city has not spent most of its ARPA funds, with $31.5 million still slated for other programs, such as home repairs, affordable housing, a new pool, trash bill forgiveness and other projects.

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THINK: Tips for Better Digital Health

September 12, 2024 | by THINK Capital Blue Cross

Woman looks on the screen of her mobile phone.

Screens. They’re everywhere – as closely linked to our lives, it seems, as our limbs.

Any number of electronic devices ping us perpetually with texts, emails, and alerts, all while social media sucks us into constant conversations.

It’s a lot – too much at times.

“The many screens that connect us to the internet and social media have a lot of great benefits,” said Kelly Brennan, Capital Blue Cross Senior Director of Health Promotion and Wellness. “They help us feel more connected, allow us to research information quickly, track our physical activity and what we eat, etc. But it’s also important that we stay mindful about our digital well-being. Too much digital engagement can increase anxiety and loneliness for some people, and lead to many other negative outcomes.”

Screentime’s Scary Side

Type “damaging effects of screen time” into a Google search, and a slew of studies appear revealing at least 21 harmful impacts. They span everything from increased depression to violence-desensitization, isolation to insomnia, chronic neck pain to vision problems, and more.

Ongoing studies by the National Institutes of Health (NIH) are among the most troubling, chronicling excessive screen time’s negative effect on child brain development.

The NIH recommends two or fewer hours of daily screen time, or 14 hours weekly, particularly for children under 18. But global research shows the average internet-connected person shatters that suggested ceiling, spending more than 6 ½ hours a day (U.S. 11-to-14-year-olds spend a whopping nine-plus hours) on a screen, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Better Screen Habits in 5 Steps

Capital’s Brennan offers five tips to help us both cut back on screentime and use it more wisely:

1. Closely monitor your time online. While being online with others can help our well-being, scrolling passively through social media can expose us to upsetting content. Set limits – and stick to them. Being offline allows us to spend time with family and friends, exercise, and pursue hobbies.
2. Connect carefully: Carefully seek digital resources and social media posts grounded in fact to help ensure you are getting accurate information. Choose posts and content that make you feel good, rather than those you know make you anxious or angry.
3. Curate your emails: Unsubscribe from emails you never read or use, and delete old emails you don’t need to help create a less stressful inbox.
4. Stay offscreen to start and end your day: Don’t increase your risk of distraction from good or bad information when you awake or go to sleep. Try a cup of coffee or a walk in the morning, and a book or gentle programming before bed.
5. Heed your mental health: Whether it’s through physical or mental exercises or counseling, be mindful of your mental well-being.

Capital Blue Cross Connect health and wellness centers feature health coaches who can help people increase physical activity and manage stress in ways that help reduce screentime. Capital also offers a VirtualCare telehealth option and can connect members to behavioral health professionals online or by calling 866.322.1657. Some companies, including Capital, offer employee assistance programs that make it easy for employees to access mental health professionals for any issue.

“As with most things, too much digital exposure can potentially have negative effects,” Brennan said. “But if we have a balance and stay mindful about our interactions, we’re more likely to make healthier choices that support our overall health and well-being.”

THINK (Trusted Health Information, News, and Knowledge) is a community publication of Capital Blue Cross. Our mission is to provide education, resources, and news on the latest health and insurance issues.

Weekend Roundup with Sara Bozich

September 12, 2024 | by 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: Celebrate 25 years of Whitaker Center with a Block Party on Friday! Saturday: Art of Tröegs Art Market Worth noting: It’s Harrisburg Restaurant Week! Things on my agenda this weekend: Youth baseball, Whitaker Center Block Party + Gala

For your weekend planning

Celebrate 25 years of Whitaker Center!
Enter to WIN tickets to see Pete Yorn next weekend at XL Live
See what else you missed on the blog

Below are more options for your weekend.

A Look Ahead

Our next 3rd in the Burg is a fundraiser for GLO Harrisburg
Mark your calendar now for the inaugural Berry Bash on Oct. 26!
The last SoMa Block Party of the season is Sept. 26
You can now sponsor the Weekend Roundup! Ask me how!
Are you on my email list?
Submit your events for the Weekend Roundup

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Report: Homes sales, prices moved higher in August in Harrisburg area

September 11, 2024 | by Lawrance Binda

A for-sale sign in Harrisburg

Harrisburg-area home sales and prices both increased in August, per the latest report on previously owned houses.

For the three-county region, 651 homes sold versus 604 in August 2023, as the median sales price climbed to $297,000 from $284,298, according to the Greater Harrisburg Association of Realtors (GHAR).

In Dauphin County, sales totaled 309 homes in August, an increase of 10 houses, as the median sales price grew to $270,000 from $255,000 in the year-ago period, GHAR stated.

Cumberland County had 300 home sales, up from 279 the prior August, as the median sales price rose to $327,250 from $308,000, GHAR said.

In Perry County, 47 homes sold compared to 25 last August, as the median sales price shot up to $300,000 from $242,000, according to GHAR.

The pace of sales slowed a bit, as the “average days of market” totaled 23 days, versus 19 days a year ago, GHAR said.

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Bob’s Art Blog: Gallery Walk #36, in the Books

September 10, 2024 | by Bob MacGinnes

An award-winning work by Andrea Finch at AAH

“Blue skies smiling at me, nothing but blue skies do I see.”

The report from the front is in on Gallery Walk #36, held on Sunday. The weather proved to be a huge factor for the event as it was sunny, breezy and felt like the first day of fall. Art was everywhere you looked, especially on all the Gallery Walkers faces (picture yourself here) with art in their eyes.

The day started at the Art Association of Harrisburg, that bastion of brilliance and boldness with bravura brushstrokes a-plenty. CEO Carrie Wissler-Thomas and director of exhibitions, Nate Foster, had stars forming a halo over their heads as they walked on cloud nine over the unveiling of the “Heroes and Heroines” exhibit. Awards were handed out from Wissler-Thomas and its board president, Travis DiNicola. Best-of-show went to Sarah Jacobs for her work, a nod to Ophelia. A standout piece of textural interplay came from Andrea Finch, which took a second prize. AAH counted a record number of visitors, topping 300.

Checking in with Vivian Sterste-Brandler and Jackson Boyd of the Vivi on Verbeke outpost, they shared, “We had tremendous tourist traffic all day long with clients still shopping even after the closing bell rang at 5. Many new faces, collectors and young artists kept the gallery open going into overtime through 7 p.m., which was fine with us. I reckoned over 100 visitors passed through our doors for a record turnout.”

The colorful backyard at Vivi on Verbeke

Civic Club President, Contrena Baltimore and art adventuress R76 (you know you’ve arrived when the public knows who you are by a letter and number) staffed the battlements at the Overlook Mansion with visitors as the tally grew to double digits. Art vendors included Prittyfy, Witmer Wood, Toro Comics, Bootleg, Iquan Summers, Carrie Feidt, Art by Elliot, Tom Walsh and King Prolifik. Reina shared, “The Civic Club offered a variety of art experiences throughout the day. I pointed the way with guests as to the direction creativity was taking in the City of Harrisburg. My mantra ‘Artists Unite’ applies to everything I support. Art is bringing a fresh energy to our communities.”

Ted Walke (“talked the talk” and you know the rest…) at his Gallery at 2nd (608 to be exact). Ted shared, “Many visitors enjoyed ‘talking art’ and were happy to immerse themselves in the city’s art venues. I thought of myself as a ‘link’ in a chain. That is, making sure to direct visitors to both the Civic Club and the State Museum as their next stop. I would have to say that, with the turnout I saw, it was one of the most well-attended Gallery Walks in my 14 years of participation in this annual event.”

Julia Mallory of TEN OH! SIX found the day full and rich with art lovers for her very first Gallery Walk at her studio on 3^rd Street. Art friend Cody spent the entire day at the gallery and reported a strong turnout. Featured artists were Bryan “King” Prolifik and Cheryl Peoples. Julia stated, “Gallery Walk was an incredible opportunity for us to connect both with existing friends and new supporters which demonstrates the power of what is possible when art and community collide.”

When you make a list, you better check it twice! Artist Craig Bomberger of the hand-painted silk scarves soirees, had two stops to make for Gallery Walk. “Check to make sure my art is hung in the best possible light at the LGBT Center. Secondly, set up my live painting demonstration providing in-house poetic painting for the Historic Harrisburg Association, which also featured members of the AAH who displayed their work.”

Artwork by Craig Bomberger at the LGBT Center

It turned out that Mr. Bomberger got to meet a lot of Harrisburg history buffs all afternoon. In fact, Executive Director David Morrison greeted visitors to this resource repository with a warm welcome and tour of the rich history our beloved city entails. In speaking with Mr. Morrison, he related, “The Center was so busy throughout the afternoon that there was no time to take pictures. But there were plenty to be seen from archival photographs showcasing the tapestry of time since the city was founded in 1719 by John Harris.”

It was a great sign for Harrisburg artists to have the tremendous outpouring of support that was shone throughout the day with a record number of art lovers, gallery walkers, and first-time visitors to the city. A huge thanks to all on both sides of the aisle on the avenues of art and behind the counters both. Harrisburg’s creative community basked in the limelight.

When you get right down to it, is there anything more beautiful than the person to your right or left, in front or behind you…there is beauty in everyone if you take the time to look.

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Fiesta de la Salud: Free Community Health Event in Harrisburg on September 14

September 10, 2024 | by Admin

The National Hispanic Medical Association – Pennsylvania Chapter (NHMA) is proud to announce the upcoming Fiesta de la Salud, a community health event aimed at providing essential health services and resources to the public. In partnership with Latino Connection and Color & Culture, this event will take place on Saturday, September 14 from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m. at Tri-County Community Action, located at 1514 Derry Street in Harrisburg.

Fiesta de la Salud is a free event that aims to promote health and wellness within the community. Attendees will have access to a wide range of complimentary health services, education, and resources, all available in both English and Spanish. The event will feature free glucose meters, food, massages, blood pressure machines, vaccines, vendors, music, games, prizes, and much more.

One of the highlights of the event will be the Diabetes & Hypertension Screenings, provided in partnership with the Penn State Latino Medical Student Association. These screenings will offer attendees the opportunity to assess their risk for diabetes and hypertension, two prevalent health conditions within the Hispanic community. By providing these screenings, Fiesta de la Salud aims to raise awareness and promote early detection and prevention.

Fiesta de la Salud also offers an opportunity for local vendors to showcase their products and services. Space for vendors is still available, and interested parties are encouraged to contact Nicolas Polanco and Modesto Araujo at [email protected] to learn more about securing a spot.

“We are excited to host Fiesta de la Salud and provide a platform for the community to access vital health services and resources,” said George Fernandez, President & CEO of Color & Culture and Latino Connection. “By offering these services in both English and Spanish, we hope to bridge the language barrier and ensure that everyone has equal access to quality healthcare.”

Fiesta de la Salud is expected to draw a large crowd from the local community, including individuals and families of all ages. This event presents a unique opportunity for attendees to learn about their health, engage with healthcare professionals, and connect with local resources.

For more information about Fiesta de la Salud, please visit https://bit.ly/4cUrQpK.

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

What you’ll find ⤵️

For your weekend planning

A Look Ahead

Thursday

Friday

Saturday

Sunday

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