Community Corner: Notable August Events

July 30, 2024 | by Missy Smith

Patio Parties
Aug. 1, 8, 15, 22, 29: Join Central Penn College, 600 Valley Rd., Summerdale, for its free family-friendly live music and food truck series, “Party on the Patio,” every Thursday from 4 to 6 p.m. through Oct. 10. The events feature live music by local performers, food trucks and patio games. www.centralpenn.edu

Visit The Bower
Aug. 1-31: The Bower, 1190 Bower Rd., Shermans Dale, is open by appointment through mid-October for visits, featuring 36 acres of varied native habitats with 12 sculptures featured throughout. Each month’s scheduling calendar is posted one month in advance on the “visit” page of their website. www.thegardenbower.com

Book Sale
Aug. 2-6: Hershey Public Library will hold its Friends Annual Summer Book Sale at 701 Cocoa Ave., Hershey. On Aug. 2, there will be a book sale preview for members of the Friends of the Hershey Public Library from 6 to 8 p.m. www.hersheylibrary.org

Sunset Series
Aug. 2, 9, 16, 23: Dauphin County Parks and Recreation hosts an outdoor Sunset Music and Movie Series at Fort Hunter Park, 5300 N. Front St., Harrisburg. Performances start at 7 p.m., movies begin at 8:30 p.m. Bring a picnic or grab refreshments from the concession stand. www.forthunter.org

Mystery Conference
Aug. 3: Mechanicsburg Mystery Bookshop hosts a “Mystery Conference” at 125 E. Main St., Shiremanstown, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Hear authors speak, enjoy author roundabouts and have books signed. Tickets are $30 per person. www.mysterybooksonline.com

Community Day
Aug. 3: Join the Harrisburg Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta for a Community Day, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., at Soldier’s Grove in the state Capitol Complex. The whole family can enjoy games, face painting, health screenings, educational resources and food trucks. Stock up on school supplies with free book bags and register to vote. www.dstharrisburg.org

HBG Flea
Aug. 3: 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

Home Tour
Aug. 3: Enjoy the architecture and style of Mt. Gretna’s iconic homes at the annual Mt. Gretna Tour of Homes and Gardens, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Take a self-guided walking tour to get a glimpse inside unique cottages, homes, historic buildings and gardens. www.gretnamusic.org

Art Soiree
Aug. 3: Art Association of Harrisburg hosts the “Manor on Front Soiree” at the home of Mark and Sheri Bennington, 2917 N. Front St., Harrisburg, 5 to 8 p.m., with featured artists Jonathan Frazier, Paul Gallo, Julie Riker, Steve Wetzel and Robert Nulph. Enjoy live music by Noah Spangler Jazz Quartet. www.artassocofhbg.com

Book Sales
Aug. 3, 17: Friends of New Cumberland Public Library, 1 Benjamin Plaza, hosts pre-owned book sales on the first and third Saturdays, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., in Foundation House, across the shared parking lot from the library. www.cumberlandcountylibraries.org

Sousa Concert
Aug. 4: The Carlisle Town Band will host the 36th annual Grand Sousa Concert at the Carlisle Theatre, 40 W. High St., 6:30 p.m. Enjoy an evening of music in the iconic style of John Philip Sousa. www.carlisleband.org

Garden Camp
Aug. 6: Penn State Master Gardeners of Cumberland County hosts a summer gardening camp series for youth ages 7-12 at the Penn State Extension office, 310 Allen Rd., Carlisle, 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. Activities include planting and harvesting, crafts, games and scientific exploration. Cost is $10 per session. www.extension.psu.edu

Group Connection
Aug. 6: Families with children under 5 years in Perry, Dauphin and Cumberland counties are invited to “Scoopin’ Up the Fun,” at Little Buffalo State Park, Pavilion #3, 6 to 7:30 p.m. Enjoy ice cream and activities, connect with other local families, and access resources for families in need. www.cactricounty.org

Evening Mixer
Aug. 7: Join West Shore Chamber of Commerce for an evening mixer at Pennoni, 5072 Ritter Rd, Suite 102, Mechanicsburg, 4 to 6 p.m. This free event is open to chamber members and potential members. www.wschamber.org

Kids Workshops
Aug. 8: The Bower, 1190 Bower Rd., Shermans Dale, in collaboration with Dickinson College’s Trout Gallery, offers free summer workshops for kids ages 4-10 who can explore environmental science, art and literature. Theme is “Maps of Where We Live.” Families may pack a picnic. www.thegardenbower.com

Food Rally
Aug. 8: 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 area food trucks or New Cumberland restaurants and enjoy shopping and special promotions at local businesses. www.newcumberlandpa.org

Golf Open
Aug. 9: Education Foundation of Central Penn College hosts the 53rd annual Golf Open, 8 a.m. to 3 p.m., at Rich Valley Golf, 227 Rich Valley Rd., Mechanicsburg. All proceeds benefit student scholarship funds. www.centralpenn.edu

Film Friday
Aug. 9: Fredricksen Library, 100 N. 19th St., Camp Hill, will show “A Sunday in the Country” from France at 2 p.m. Guests are encouraged to join the library for a film discussion following the film. www.fredricksenlibrary.org

Weekender Party
Aug. 9: The Weekender Festival invites you to a free block party at Hall Manor Activity Field, 100 Hall Manor Plaza, Harrisburg, 3 to 9 p.m. This family-friendly celebration of community features live music, food trucks, local and regional performers and activities. Connect with your neighbors and celebrate community. www.weekenderhbg.com

Summer Jazz
Aug. 9: Gretna Music and Central PA Friends of Jazz present a summer jazz concert at the Mt. Gretna Playhouse, 200 Pennsylvania Ave., Mt. Gretna. Catch the Charles McPherson Quintet at 7:30 p.m. Doors open at 6:30 p.m., featuring free performances by talented young musicians. www.gretnamusic.org

Folk Festival
Aug. 9-11: Enjoy the Susquehanna Folk Festival at the Appell Center for the Performing Arts, 50 N. George St., York, with a weekend of folk music, dance and art, featuring numerous folk music performers and bands. www.sfmsfolk.org

Volunteer Day
Aug. 10: 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

Game Day
Aug. 10: Harrisburg Board Game Day will be held for all ages and skill levels to enjoy at Whitaker Center, 222 Market St., Harrisburg, 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Board, card and role-playing games available, and guests will have chances to win door prizes. Facebook: Harrisburg Board Game Day

Summer Service
Aug. 11: Salem United Church of Christ, 231 Chestnut St., Harrisburg, will host its annual Butterfly Release Service in the garden to the west of the sanctuary at 10:30 a.m. Butterflies are available to order in remembrance of, or in honor of, someone special. salemuccharrisburg.org

Backyard Foraging
Aug. 13: Join naturalists at Wildwood Park, 100 Wildwood Way, Harrisburg, 6 to 7:30 p.m., to learn how to identify and utilize edible plants to create delicious summer recipes. Learn how to craft a refreshing drink, a healthy salad and a sweet treat, using foraged ingredients. Cost is $20 per person. www.explorewildwoodpark.org

Jazz Party
Aug. 15: Historical Society of Dauphin County hosts “Flowers & All that Jazz—A Jazz Age Lawn Party” at John Harris-Simon Cameron Mansion, 6:30 to 9 p.m. Enjoy food, dessert, wine, beer, a specialty cocktail, raffles, croquet, live music, flowers, mansion tours, conversation and networking. Tickets start at $65. www.dauphincountyhistory.org

Art Soiree
Aug. 16: Art Association of Harrisburg hosts the “Historic Midtown Soiree” co-hosted by David Morrison and Robert Potter, 1230 N. 3rd St., Harrisburg, 5 to 8 p.m., with featured artists Craig Bomberger, Thom Kulp, Ron Steficek and Tom Banks. Enjoy live music by Jonathan Frazier. Cost is $45 in advance, $50 at the door. www.artassocofhbg.com

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

Sesquicentennial
Aug. 16-18: Shiremanstown celebrates 150 years at its three-day Sesquicentennial Celebration, with live music, historical exhibits, art displays, a parade, food trucks, fireworks display and family-friendly activities. www.shiremanstown150.weebly.com

Chili Cook-Off
Aug. 17: Perry County Literacy Council hosts its annual Perry County Fair Chili Cook-Off, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sample entries and vote for a winner, while supporting adult literacy. Chili enthusiasts can compete for trophies and cash prizes. Find entry and sponsor information online or by calling 717-567-7323. www.perryliteracy.org

Neurodiverse Group
Aug. 17: The Neurodiverse Network hosts a Neurodiverse Adult Support Group, 3 to 4:30 p.m., at Cleve J. Fredricksen Library, 100 N. 6th St., Harrisburg. This free peer-led group provides a safe space for discussion, resource sharing and mutual support. www.fredricksenlibrary.org

Opera in the Park
Aug. 18: Enjoy Harrisburg Opera Association’s annual free concert “Opera in the Park—Icons of Music” at Italian Lake, Harrisburg, 4 p.m. The concert is for music lovers of all ages and will explore music’s impact on culture and the human experience. Bring your own picnic. www.harrisburg-opera.org

Golf Tournament
Aug. 19: Bethesda Mission will host its annual Mission Open Golf Tournament at Colonial Golf and Tennis Club, 4901 Linglestown Rd., Harrisburg, 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Proceeds will benefit its alcohol and addiction recovery programs. www.bethesdamission.org

Bella Serata
Aug. 20: Fort Hunter, 5300 N. Front St., Harrisburg, hosts its Bella Serata fundraiser, “Farm to River,” 6 to 8 p.m., with locally sourced, homemade dinner offerings, local beer and wines, live acoustic music and more. www.forthunter.org

Plant Sale
Aug. 22: Manada Conservancy hosts a summer native plant sale at its native plant nursery, within the East Hanover Township Nature Park, 328 N. Crawford Road, Grantville, 5 to 7:30 p.m. www.manada.org

Support Veterans
Aug. 23: Help Veterans Outreach of PA at their fourth annual “Red, White & Blue Scramble” at Manada Golf Course, Grantville, teeing off at 2 p.m. The cost is $100 per golfer and includes a light lunch, dinner and drinks. All proceeds support veterans in need. [email protected]

Run Wild
Aug. 24: Join Wildwood Park, 100 Wildwood Way, Harrisburg, for the fourth annual “Run Wild for Wildwood” 5K & 10K, 8 to 11 a.m. This scenic run/walk will take you on the Wildwood Way Trail around the lake and the Towpath Trail along the PA Canal. www.explorewildwoodpark.org

Summer BBQ
Aug. 24: The Valley of Harrisburg & Cigar Lodge #1 host a casual summer barbecue on Saturday, 1 to 6 p.m., at the Harrisburg Consistory, 2701 N. 3rd St., Harrisburg. Enjoy BBQ chicken, coleslaw, potato salad, corn and more, with a cigar smoker on-site. Tickets are required for $20 per person. www.valleyofharrisfburg.org

Mansion Concert
Aug. 24: The Manor on Front, 2917 N. Front St., Harrisburg, will host a Mansion Concert with Tony McManus at 7 p.m. Doors open at 6 p.m. Admission is a $35 recommended donation, but guests are asked to register online. Bring a lawn chair, picnic food and a cold beverage. www.mansionconcert.com

Concert Series
Aug. 25: Harrisburg Young Professionals hosts a free Italian Lake Concert Series concert with Natalie Ness at Italian Lake, N. 3rd and Division streets, Harrisburg, 6 to 8 p.m. Bring a lawn chair, picnic blankets and snacks. www.hyp.org

Kipona
Aug. 31-Sept. 2: Harrisburg’s Kipona festival celebrates its 108th year along the city’s riverfront and on City Island with live music, food trucks, vendors, a beer/wine garden, kids’ activities, a Native American pow-wow and more. The free event runs 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday and 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Monday. www.harrisburgpa.gov/special-events

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

Happenings: Our August Calendar of Events

July 30, 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

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

96th Annual Juried Show, through Aug. 15

Fall Membership Show Heroes and Heroines,” Aug. 23-Sept. 28

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

“The Gift of Nature,” works by Marti Yeager, Rod Stabler and Ann Ruppert, Aug. 9-Sept. 14; reception: Aug. 9, 5:30-7 p.m.

“Working Backwards,” works by Mia Cinelli, Aug. 9-Sept. 14; reception: Aug. 9, 5:30-7 p.m.

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

August artist of the month

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

Artwork by Linda Deibler, through Aug. 31

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

August featured artists: Jonathan Frazier and Linda Benton McCloskey

Hershey Area Art Association (HAAA)
hersheyart.org

HAAA Member Artwork at Hershey Public Library, through Aug. 10

HAAA Member Artwork at Hershey Public Library, Aug. 10-Oct. 12

HAAA Member Artwork at Hershey Gardens Conservatory, Aug. 30-31 and Sept. 1, 9 a.m.-6 p.m.

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

14th Annual “12 & Under Small Works Group Show,” Aug. 2-Sept. 28; reception: Aug. 2, 5-8 p.m.

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

Annual Juried Student Exhibition, through Aug. 30

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

New works by Marjorie Taylor, John Davis, Kristen Fava, Judy Kelly, Jordan Bashore, Ann Yeager and Rachelle Lowe, through Aug. 11

New works by Pamela Black, John Speaker, R-76 Artist, Julie Iaria, The Huckle Buckle Boys, Eve Tiday and Kristin Livelsberger, Aug. 13-Sept. 15

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

“Tattoos Through Time,” through Sept. 7

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

Art in the Stacks featuring artist Thomas Aubrey, Aug. 1-31

Art by Heather Wentzelin, the Main Floor Showcase exhibit, Aug. 1-31

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

Exhibits dedicated to Pennsylvania firefighting history

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

“Susquehanna Valley Chapter of the Pennsylvania Guild of Craftsmen Landis House Exhibition,” through Aug. 8

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

Solo exhibit by Julie Riker; opening reception, Aug. 1, 5-7 p.m.

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

“Game Changers—Pennsylvania Women Who Made History,” celebrating women from across 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

“Memories & Inspiration: The Kerry and C. Betty Davis Collection of African American Art,” through Aug. 18

“How We Shut Down Berks,” works by Queremos Justicia, who tells the story of how the Shut Down Berks Coalition organized to close an immigrant prison, Aug. 31-Nov. 3

“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

“Works in Wax—Contemporary Women Encaustic Artists,” through Sept. 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

“Expanding Vistas—The Vesell Family Collection and Works from the LVC Fine Art Collection, ” through Aug. 4

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

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

Work by Wheel of Light Studio students, through Aug. 24

Art by Wheel of Light Studio instructors, Aug 27-Oct. 5

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

“Art in the Wild” outdoor art show of works by local artists composed mostly of natural materials to blend with the natural setting, through Sept. 30

Read, Make, Learn

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

Aug. 1, 8, 15, 22, 29: Ready, Steady, Action! at Enola Store and Virtual, 4:15 p. m.
Aug. 2, 16, 30: Virtual Booty Blast, 9:30 a.m.
Aug. 2, 9, 16, 23, 30: Boomer Bootcamp, 10 a.m.
Aug. 5, 12, 19, 26: Gentle Yoga Flow, 9:30 a.m.
Aug. 5, 12, 19, 26: Tai Chi, 4 p.m.
Aug. 5, 12, 19, 26: Virtual Pilates, 5 p.m.
Aug. 6, 13, 20, 27: Virtual Yoga for Back Health, 10 a.m.
Aug. 7, 14, 21, 28: Virtual INSPIRE, 9 a.m.
Aug. 7, 14, 21, 28: Virtual Adult Art Class, 11:05 a.m.
Aug. 7, 14, 21, 28: Virtual Kid’s Art Class, 12:05 p.m.
Aug. 7, 14, 21, 28: Cardio Kickboxing, 4:30 p.m.
Aug. 9, 23: Virtual Barre Intensity Express, 9:30 a.m.

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

Aug. 2: Craft Beer & Clay, 7-9 p.m.
Aug. 3: Beginning Oil Painting Still Life, 10 a.m.-3 p.m.
Aug. 10: Copper Enameling Workshop, 11 a.m.-1 p.m.
Aug. 24: Sterling Silver Cuttle Bone Casting Workshop, 11 a.m.-3 p.m.
Aug. 31: Plein Air Painting at Allenberry (ages 16-adult), 10 a.m.-3 p.m.

Dauphin County Library System
dcls.org

Aug. 14: Spanish Language Conversation Group via Zoom, 6-7 p.m.

East Pennsboro Library
98 S. Enola Dr., Enola
717-732-4274; eastpennsborobranch.org

Aug. 5-10: Summer Adventure Scavenger Hunt

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

Aug. 1: Music for Kids Ages 1-100 with Will Parker, 10:30-11:30 a.m.
Aug. 1, 6, 8, 13, 15: Magic of Comic Book Drawing Class, 5:30-7:30 p.m.
Aug. 1: Myles Bullen—Poetry, Rap, and Navigating Grief, 6-7 p.m.
Aug. 2: Silent Book Club, 3:30-4:30 p.m.
Aug. 11, 25: The Year of Ghibli— Castle in the Sky, 2-4 p.m.
Aug. 13: Stories at Sunset, 6-6:45 p.m.
Aug. 15: Sip & Speak, 3-4:30 p.m.
Aug. 17: Figment Forge Writing Group, 10:30-12:30 p.m.
Aug. 28: Studio Ghibli Podcast, 4-6 p.m.

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

Aug. 1, 8: Family Storytime, 10:30-11:30 a.m.
Aug. 1, 8, 15, 22, 29: Fiber Artists, 3-6 p.m.
Aug. 3: Knitter’s Group, 10 a.m.-2 p.m.
Aug. 5: Baby Time, 9:30-10:30 a.m.
Aug. 5: Touch a Truck, 10:30-11:30 a.m.
Aug. 5: Monday Game Club, 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
Aug. 6, 13, 20, 27: Card Making Group, 5-7 p.m.
Aug. 6, 20: Teen SummerZine, 4-5:30 p.m.
Aug. 7: Toddler Time, 10:30-11:30 a.m.
Aug. 7, 14, 21, 28: Homeschool Happening, 2-4 p.m.
Aug. 10, 24: LEGO Club, 11 a.m.-12 p.m.
Aug. 17: Book Discussion Group, 10 a.m.-12 p.m.
Aug. 17: K-Pets Therapy Reading Sessions, 10:30-11:30 a.m.
Aug. 24: D&D Group, 10 a.m.-12:30 p.m.

Fort Hunter
5300 N. Front St., Harrisburg
717-599-5751; forthunter.org

Aug. 7: Stories on the Stairs—“Three Sisters Garden,” 10-11 a.m.
Aug. 10: Interactive Children’s Tour, 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
Aug. 16: Penn State Extension Master Gardener Walk & Talk, 10-11 a.m.
Aug. 17: Fort Hunter Mansion and McAllister Cemetery Combo Tour, 10 a.m.-12 p.m.
Aug. 21: Stories on the Stairs—“Rainbow Crow,” 10-11 a.m.

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

Aug. 1, 8, 15: Language at the Library-Beginner Spanish, 10-11 a.m.
Aug. 1: Teen Meetup, 6-8 p.m.
Aug. 1: Travelogue: Back from the Bush, A Journey into the Okavango Delta, 7-8:30 p.m.
Aug. 2: Monthly Blood Drive, 10 a.m.-5:30 p.m.
Aug. 2: Drop-In Craft Program, 10 a.m.-12 p.m.
Aug. 2: Keep it to Yourself: Controlling Your Social Media, 10-11 a.m.
Aug. 2: Handicap Chess & Strategy Games, 4:30-8:30 p.m.
Aug. 2: Chess Club, 6:30-8:30 p.m.
Aug. 4: Game Day for All!, 1:30-4:30 p.m.
Aug. 4, 11, 18, 25: Heartfulness Meditation Workshop, 2-3 p.m.
Aug. 6: Curl up with the Classics—“To the Lighthouse,” 10-11 a.m.
Aug. 6, 13, 20, 27: Master Gardener Plant Clinics, 6-7:30 p.m.
Aug. 8, 22: Meet & Greet Library Pups, 10-11 a.m.
Aug. 9: Peaceful Poses Adult Yoga, 9:15-10 a.m.
Aug. 9: Peaceful Poses Yoga Storytime for Preschoolers, 10-10:45 a.m.
Aug. 9: Film Fridays—“A in the Country” (2000), 2-4 p.m.
Aug. 9: What Actors Can Teach Us About Society, 6:30-8:30 p.m.
Aug. 10: STEM Discovery Meetup (ages 8-10), 1:30-3 p.m.
Aug. 10, 20: Plot Twisters Teen Writers Group, 6-7 p.m.
Aug. 20: Genealogy Club, 11 a.m.-12 p.m.
Aug. 8, 15, 29: Device Advice, 5-6 p.m.
Aug. 11: Paint with Us, 1-3 p.m.
Aug. 17: Neurodivergent Adult Support Group, 3 p.m.
Aug. 19: Fredricksen Writes, 7 p.m.
Aug. 24: Computer Basics, 2-3 p.m.
Aug. 26: Fredricksen Reads—“ The Matchmaker’s Gift,” 7-8 p.m.

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

Aug. 1: Sea Creatures Watercolor Workshop (ages 12+), 6-8 p.m.
Aug. 3: 3D Bouquet on Wood (ages 15+), 10 a.m.-1 p.m.
Aug. 15: Western Boot Painting (ages 12+), 6-8 p.m.
Aug. 18: Dragonfly Painting, 1-3 p.m.
Aug. 22: Stained Glass Flower, 6-8 p.m.

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

Aug. 7: Les Quizerables: Library Trivia Night, 5:30-6:30 p.m.
Aug. 17: Knit One, Crochet Too!, 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.

Hershey Area Art Association (HAAA)
hersheyart.org

Aug. 6-7: Watercolor Summer Fun 2-Day Workshop, 10:30 a.m.-4 p.m.
Aug. 20-21: Painting Abstractly with Oil and Cold Wax 2-Day Workshop, 9 a.m.-3:30 p.m.

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

Aug. 1, 8, 15, 22, 29: Walking Hershey, 9:30-10:30 a.m.
Aug. 2-6: Book Sale
Aug. 7, 14, 21: Community Crochet Night, 6-7:45 p.m.
Aug. 8, 13, 15, 20, 22, 27, 29: Penn State Hershey—Mothers & Babies, 10:15 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
Aug. 9: Play Day for Families, 10-11 a.m.
Aug. 10, 17, 24: Chess Club, 1-3 p.m.
Aug. 14: Board Game Night, 5-7:45 p.m.
Aug. 15, 29: Hershey Quilters, 12-4 p.m.
Aug. 16: Craft and a Movie—Spider-Man, Into the Spiderverse, 10-11:30 a.m.
Aug. 17: Cocoa Area Fiber Enthusiasts, 10 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
Aug. 28: Community Crochet Night—Teen Space, 3-5 p.m.
Aug. 28: Art Club, 5-7:45 p.m.

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

Aug. 4: Wild Abundance—Mid-Summer Foraging Walk 10 a.m.-12 p.m.
Aug. 10: Crafting Fruit Vinegars, 10:30 a.m.-12:15 p.m.
Aug. 21: Restorative Fascial Stretching Yoga, 7-8 p.m.
Aug. 22: Sourdough Baking Bread, 6-8 p.m.
Aug. 31: Fermenting Garden Veggies, 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.

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

Aug. 1, 8, 15: Math Club, 9-9:45 a.m.
Aug. 1, 8, 15: Beginning Mah Jongg, 10 a.m.-1 p.m.
Aug. 1, 8, 15: Mah Jongg, 10 a.m.-1 p.m.
Aug. 1, 8, 15, 22, 29: Story Time, 10:15-11 a.m.
Aug. 1, 8, 15, 22, 29: Toddler Time, 11:15-11:35 a.m.
Aug. 1, 8, 15, 22, 29: Rhyme Time, 11:45 a.m.-12:05 p.m.
Aug. 5: Teen Movie Monday, 6-7:45 p.m.
Aug. 5, 12, 19, 26: Rhyme Time, 10:15-10:35 a.m.
Aug. 5, 12, 19, 26: Toddler Time, 10:45-11:05 a.m.
Aug. 6, 13, 20, 27: Tea and Stitches, 10 a.m.-12 p.m.
Aug. 6, 13, 20, 27: Storybook STEAM, 6-7 p.m.
Aug. 9: Apple Users Group for Seniors, 1-2 p.m.
Aug. 9, 23: Dungeons & Dragons (grades 6-12), 6-8 p.m.
Aug. 10-11: August Book Sale
Aug. 12, 26: English Conversation Club, 6:30-7:30 p.m.
Aug. 15: Thursday Morning Book Club, 10-11 a.m.
Aug. 19: Monday Night Book Club, 7-8 p.m.
Aug. 21: Watch the Skies Sci-Fi Book Club, 7-9 p.m.
Aug. 24: Trivia at Home—Pixar, 6-8 p.m.
Aug. 27: Tea & Stitches Extended Edition, 12-3 p.m.

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

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

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

Aug. 2: Music for Kids Ages 1-100 with Will Parker, 10:30-11:30 a.m.
Aug. 10: Reading the Rainbow Book Club, 11 a.m.-12 p.m.

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

Aug. 6: Talk and book signing with Former Commander of the United States Army Europe Ben Hodges, in conversation with Michael Neiberg, 7-8 p.m.
Aug. 8: An Evening with Becky Chalsen and Ethan Joella, 7-8 p.m.
Aug. 17: Bookstore Romance Day, 9 a.m.-6 p.m.
Aug. 17: An Evening with Lily Womble and Amanda Matta, 6-7 p.m.
Aug. 27: An Evening with K’wan, 7-8 p.m.
Aug. 31: Book Singing with Tory Gates, 1-3 p.m.

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

Aug. 10: Fused Glass Mandala Workshop, 2:30-5 p.m.
Aug. 24: Fused Glass Dandy Dogs Magnet Workshop, 2:30-5 p.m.

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

Aug. 3: Lessons in History with Dr. Scott Hippensteel, 1-2 p.m.

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

Aug. 1: Ruth’s Mystery Discussion Group, 10:15 a.m.-12 p.m.
Aug. 1, 8, 15, 22, 29: Tech Time, 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
Aug. 1-31: Scavenger Hunts Around the World (ages 0-12)
Aug. 2: Outdoor Sensory Playtime (ages 0-5), 10:30-11:30 a.m.
Aug. 2-3: Stuffed Animal Sleepover (ages 0-12)
Aug. 3: Teen Tea Club (ages 13-17)
Aug. 3, 17: Book Sales, 9 a.m.-3 p.m.
Aug. 5: Escape the Room Adventure, 2 p.m. (ages 5-8) and 4 p.m. (9-13)
Aug. 5, 19: Musical Mornings (ages 2-5), 10:30-11 a.m.
Aug. 5-26: Baby Dance Party (ages 0-2) Mondays, 11:45 a.m.-12:15 p.m.
Aug. 6: Outdoor Storytimes (ages 2-5), 10:30 a.m.
Aug. 6: Outdoor Storytimes (ages 0-2), 11:15 a.m.
Aug. 7: Piece Seekers, 6-7:30 p.m.
Aug. 7, 14: Around the World in 80 Days, Wednesdays, 1:30-2:30 p.m.
Aug. 8: Family Fort Fest (ages 2-5), 10:30-11:30 a.m.
Aug. 8: Teen Cottagecore Series (ages 13-17), 3 p.m.
Aug. 9, 30: Block Party (ages 0-3), 10:30-11:30 a.m.
Aug. 10: Teen Craft Kits (ages 13-17)
Aug. 10-24: Take and Makes
Aug. 12: Who Was? Book Club: Famous Adventurers (ages 7-12), 1:30-2:30 p.m.
Aug. 12, 26: Movers & Groovers (ages 2-5), 10:30-11 a.m.
Aug. 13: Shelf Love, 6-7 p.m.
Aug. 13: Storytime STEAM, 10:30-11:15 a.m.
Aug. 13: Magic Tree House Book Club (ages 7-12), 1:30-2:30 p.m.
Aug. 13: Tales for Tails (ages 6-12), 6:30-7:30 p.m.
Aug. 16: Tumble Tots, 10:30 a.m.-12 p.m.
Aug. 16, 30: Dungeons & Dragons (ages 13-17), 4-6 p.m.
Aug. 17: Couponing for Extreme Savings, 11 a.m.-12 p.m.
Aug. 21: Kid Builders (ages 3 and older), 1:30-2:30 p.m.
Aug. 27: Back to School Storytime, 1:30-2:30 p.m.
Aug. 28: PennWriters Writing Group, 6-9 p.m.
Aug. 31: Crafty Crafters Club, 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.

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

Aug. 5: Genealogy Group, 10-11 a.m.
Aug. 7, 14, 21, 28: Strength & Stretching 50+, 10-11 a.m.
Aug. 12: Book Club, 11 a.m.-12 p.m.
Aug. 26: BYO Craft Night (adults 18+), 4:30-6:45 p.m.

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

Aug. 6: Macrame Bookmark Class, 6 p.m.
Aug. 8: Mosaic Monstera Leaf Class, 6 p.m.
Aug. 24: Celestial Stitching, 1 p.m.
Aug. 28: Watercolor Mushroom Identification Cart, 6 p.m.

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

Aug. 3: Artist demo with Julie Riker, 11 a.m.-1 p.m.

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

Aug. 1: What’s Cooking? Summer Kitchen, 1:30 p.m.
Aug. 1-31: Exploration Earth, 11-11:30 a.m.
Aug. 1-31: Stars, 1-1:30 p.m.
Aug. 2, 15, 22: Giant PA Map, 1:30-3 p.m.
Aug. 2, 17: Storytime, 10:30 a.m.
Aug. 4, 11, 18, 25: Apollo 11, 2-2:30 p.m.
Aug. 9, 23: Family Gallery Tour, 1:30-2:30 p.m.
Aug. 9, 30: Curiosity Kids, 11:30 a.m.
Aug. 10, 11: Stargazing—Tonight’s Sky Live Chat, 3 p.m.
Aug. 16: Virtual Program—Down to Earth, How the PA Geological Survey Uses Satellite Data, 12:15-12:45 p.m.
Aug. 21: The Animals of Mammal Hall, 11:30 p.m.
Aug. 22: Native Flowers of PA, 11:30 a.m.

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

Aug. 9: Mosaic Monstera Leaf Workshop, 6-8 p.m.
Aug. 10: Paint Your House with Owlfeathers Watercolor, 1-3 p.m.
Aug. 24, 31: Pinch Pot Pumpkins, 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m.

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

Aug. 1: Pound the Colors of Wildwood into Cloth, 6-8 p.m.
Aug. 3: Intrusive Invasives at Detweiler Park, 10 a.m.-12 p.m.
Aug. 6: Aquatic Wild Educator Workshop, 9 a.m.-3 p.m.
Aug. 7, 14, 21, 28: Wednesday Wellness Walk, 1:30-2:30 p.m.
Aug. 9: Kids Discover—The 5 Senses at Detweiler Park (ages 5-7), 10-11 a.m.
Aug. 10: Kids Discover—Biomimicry (ages 8-12), 10-11:30 a.m.
Aug. 10: Volunteer Work Day, 10 a.m.-1 p.m.
Aug. 10: Intro to Nature Sketching, 1-3 p.m.
Aug. 10: Wild Edibles Hike at Detweiler Park, 1-3 p.m.
Aug. 13: Wild Recipes—Summer Foraging in Your Backyard, 6-7:30 p.m.
Aug. 17: Creature Feature—Lifestyle of a Butterfly (ages 4-6), 10-11 a.m.
Aug. 18: Flower Walk— Heat Tolerant Plants, 10:30 a.m.-12 p.m.
Aug. 20: Kids Discover—Monarchs (ages 5-10), 10-11:30 a.m.
Aug. 21: Preschool Storytime: Summer at Wildwood, 10-10:45 a.m.
Aug. 22: Dried Flower Art, 6-8 p.m.
Aug. 29: Natural Potpourri Workshop, 6-7:30 p.m.

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

Aug. 17: The Plot Thickens, 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
Aug. 24: Crafternoon in the Library, 11 a.m.-1 p.m.

Live Music

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

Aug. 2: The Greatest Love of All: A Tribute to Whitney Houston starring Belinda Davids
Aug. 2: Il Divo
Aug. 8: Trace Adkins
Aug. 11: Straight No Chaser
Aug. 16: The Righteous Brothers
Aug. 17: Doo Wop Project
Aug. 18: Kenny Rogers Band
Aug. 23: Journey from the Heart
Aug. 24: Johnny Mathis
Aug. 25: The Malpass Brothers
Aug. 30: Marshall Charloff & Purple Xperience: The Premier Prince Tribute

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

Aug. 1, 15, 29: Open Mic and Jam Night
Aug. 16: Tophouse
Aug. 16: Lucid Ruby
Aug. 23: Autumn Sky Hall, Anterra & Peter Stone (Duo Set), Virginia Masland
Aug. 24: Yam Yam

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

Aug. 1, 8, 15, 22, 29: Blues Jams

The Bower
1190 Bower Rd., Shermans Dale
717 418-1136; www.thegardenbower.com

Aug. 24: Sara Markowitz and Ned Allis

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

Aug. 1, 8, 29: Tristin Lynee
Aug. 2, 16, 30: Roy Lefever
Aug. 3, 10, 14, 22, 24: Chris Emkey
Aug. 7: Christine Purcell
Aug. 9, 23: Ted Ansel
Aug. 15, 21, 28: Matias Cabbell
Aug. 17, 31: Anthony Haubert

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

Aug. 10: The New York Bee Gees

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

Aug. 10: Jesse Rice
Aug. 30: The Lao Tizer Band

Greater Harrisburg Concert Band
717-576-758; ghcb.org

Aug. 4: Grand Sousa Concert at Carlisle Theatre

Gretna Music
gretnamusic.org

Aug. 4: Sarah Cahill
Aug. 9: Charles McPherson Quintet
Aug. 10: Plena Libre
Aug. 11: Hermitage Piano Trio
Aug. 25: Vox Femina

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

Aug. 22-25: Jason Cohen

Greystone Brew House
303 Golf Club Ave., Dillsburg
717.347.0632; greystonebrewhouse.com

Aug. 17: Tim Colgan

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

Aug. 2: Dead Rock City
Aug. 3: Club 90’s Beyoncé Ball
Aug. 9: Video Game Rave
Aug. 16: Oliverse
Aug. 23: Boys of Fall
Aug. 31: Heavy Night

Harrisburg University Presents
concertseries.harrisburgu.edu

Aug. 3: Arlo Parks (XL Live)
Aug. 18: Brothers Osborne (Riverfront Park)

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

Aug. 2: Cazhmiere, Dave Kelly Duo
Aug. 3: Justin Shandor (Elvis tribute), Kevin Raubenstine
Aug. 9: Colt Wilbur Band, TBD
Aug. 10 : Funktion, Grant Bryan
Aug. 16: The Frost Duo
Aug. 17: Breck, Honey & Nutz Duo
Aug. 23: Smooth Like Clyde, Brenda Brune
Aug. 24: Into The Spin, Vertigo Vultures Trio
Aug. 30: The Luv Gods, Vince Rollins Duo
Aug. 31: Fuzzy Bunny Slippers, Brenda Brune

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

Aug. 3: Concert at Paxton Presbyterian
Aug. 10: Concert at Baughman United Methodist Church Ice Cream Festival
Aug. 24: Concert at Masonic Village of Elizabethtown

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

August 2: The Marshall Tucker Band
Aug. 30-Sept. 1: PA Gospel Festival

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

Aug. 9: 1964 The Tribute

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

Aug. 24: Shotgunn

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

Aug. 2: SOJA, Arise Roots & Sensamotion
Aug. 3: Harrisburg University presents Arlo Parks
Aug. 16: Beginnings—A celebration of the Music of Chicago
Aug. 27: Steel Panter
Aug. 29: Daniel Donato
Aug. 30: Coheed and Cambria, Soul Glow and Kaonashi

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

Aug. 9: The Fabulous Hubcaps
Aug. 10: Get Petty: Celebrating the Music of Tom Petty
Aug. 22: Jack and Davis Reid, Grandchildren of The Legendary Statler Brothers
Aug. 23: Get Down with Uptown
Aug. 24, 25: “Some Enchanted Evening—The Songs of Rodgers & Hammerstein”
Aug. 31: Shea Quinn’s The Band Who Sold the World

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

Aug. 23: Nektar
Aug. 27: Graham Nash

The Stage Door

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

Aug. 2-11: “The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee”

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

Aug. 1-10: “Sound of Music”
Aug. 16-Sept. 28: “Jersey Boys”

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

Aug. 1-17: Popcorn Hat Players Present “Snow White and the Two Dwarfs”

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

Aug. 1-10: “Every Brilliant Thing”

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

Aug. 9-11: “Shrek The Musical Jr.”

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

Aug. 2: The Divas Down Under Back to the 90’s Drag Show
Aug. 3: Harrisburg’s Hilarious Finals
Aug. 10: 4 Horsemen: III

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

Aug. 2: Free Improv Jam, Level 3 Class Show, REAL Fast Coast Wives of Central PA, Add ’em Together, The Offbeats – An Improvised Musical, Say No More, Bandito
Aug. 3: Free Improv Mixer, Solo Sleepover, Elderprov, Love Triangle, Our Bizarre Adventure
Aug. 9: Free Improv Jam, Spontaneous Combustion, Adult Play Date, Spice Crones, Next Level
Aug. 10: Fresh Out of the Box: A Sketch Show, This Show Will Self Destruct, Ham Juice, Schtick Probe – An Improvised Musical, Phlegminism
Aug. 16: Free Improv Jam, Leg Of Lamp, Euphoria, Team Z, Holy Moly, Bondfire Society, GirlZilla
Aug. 17: Free Improv Mixer, Uncomfortable, Foleying Around In the Dark, Rockstar Goes Supernova, Blackest Thing Ever
Aug. 23: Level 1 Class Show, Spontaneous Combustion, Adult Play Date, Lil Stinkers, Original 6, Day Trippers
Aug. 24: Free Kid Friendly Improv Mixer, Phil’s Arcade, All Over the Place, Cosmic Trash

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

Aug. 1-4: “Escape To Margaritaville”

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

Aug. 16: Idina Menzel
Aug. 20: “Avatar the Last Airbender” Live in Concert
Aug. 21: Joe Bonamassa

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

Aug. 17, 24, 31: “Mo Willems’ Naked Mole Rat Gets Dressed—The Rock Experience”

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

Aug. 2: Shakespeare in the Woods Young Acting Co. presents “Romeo & Juliet”

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

Aug. 2-4: “POTUS; or, Behind Every Great Dumbass are Seven Women Trying to Keep Him Alive”

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

Aug. 16, 17: “BEA Arthur is Judging You”

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

Aug. 28: River Barry Presents The Mindfulness Bubble Show

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

Have Art Will Travel: Welcome to Mt. Gretna, “Pennsylvania’s Playground”

July 30, 2024 | by Bob MacGinnes

Scene from Mt. Gretna. Photo courtesy of Jana MacGinnes

“Have Art” travels 30 miles down the road from Harrisburg. When the turn is made onto Rt. 117 S, you are entering the coolest place on Earth. Cool as in the drop of temperature, cool as in the atmosphere, cool in an esoteric sort of way. Drink it all in, for the time you will spend in this very special place is magical.

Just ask the locals. They have been there for generations. And so are the towering trees. If there were a welcome banner, it would read, “Year of the Arts” in the Lebanon Valley. And Mt. Gretna is its jewel. The destination is normally a quiet family place nestled in the woods. That is, until the curtain gets drawn back. This month, the area will be a symphony of sights and sounds. The signpost up ahead: “Mt. Gretna, Pennsylvania’s Playground.”

American Idyll: Mt. Gretna

As the dog days of summer begin, the perfect antidote is to “escape to the country.” In a matter of hours when August starts and its legendary heat and humidity converge, you may want to plan a getaway to a place where you feel like a tall drink could provide all you need to be cool, calm and collected. Pack your bags and head to a shady spot off the beaten path. Mt. Gretna, a historical resort nestled in Lebanon County, beckons. This rural idyll, part village, part hamlet, comes alive on Memorial Day and has been a draw to summer visitors since the late 19th century, when the Chautauqua Campmeetings first took place—a place of lofty ideals, lazy summer days and loads of things to do for all. With hiking and biking trails, to a match on the tennis courts, lakeside sunning and swimming on the beach or just leisurely reading on the benches that are found at every turn, the choices are endless. History plays such a vital role in the area that the Mt. Gretna Area Historical Society is an adventure unto itself.

Mt. Gretna is the vision of Samuel Coleman, area entrepreneur and businessman, who saw the potential for the area to become a summer resort for those seeking a retreat from everyday life. Chautauqua was a social and cultural movement that started in upstate New York in the 1870s and found its way to other regions in the Northeast. Starting in 1892, “Under the trees of the old Chautauqua” has been Mt. Gretna’s calling card. What started out as a summer Bible festival, originally held for 10 days, soon expanded to incorporate the entire summer season. On March 17, 1892, the Campmeeting Charter was incorporated, which still stands today. Lifelong generational friendships were forged on many of the cottage porches that continue onward. In 2012, the grounds of the Campmeeting were placed on the National Register of Historic Places. Before the initial gathering took place, 102 tiny cottages were erected, as well as a chapel designated for worship. A single cottage during the 10-day camp rented for the magnanimous sum of $8 or 80 cents per day. Campmeeting attendees lived in white canvas tents on the grounds. The Playhouse also dates to 1892, when it was built as the focal point for the Pennsylvania Chautauqua. Its success led to the growth of Gretna with a train and railroad station, hotels, restaurants and a store built all under the grand vision of Mr. Coleman. To think the Chautauqua has been in existence for well over a century is nothing short of miraculous. The Chautauqua movement that started back in the latter part of the 19th century had had its day by the 1930s with the advent of radio. Yet through it all, a literary and scientific circle came about in the Gretna branch, including a Hall of Philosophy, and many of its disciplines are still observed today.

It Takes a Village

Gretna has always been about “family,” whether the church or the group that founded the hamlet. Like many close-knit communities, Gretna is really an enclave that hands down the cottages within the context of clans and friends. That way, the bond of esprit-de-corps remains intact true to its original foundation. Change is inevitable and yet it is seemingly undetectable, which only adds to Gretna’s colloquial charm. To some degree, everyone knows everybody else, and the rules of decorum that applied in the 1950s still hold fast. An open invitation to have coffee on the wraparound porches with neighbors, lending a hand to a cause before it is needed, and just enjoying the natural beauty that surrounds the communities, add up to a trip back to yesteryear and a time when life was idealistically innocent. That is not to say that modernity hasn’t taken place as fresh ideas come to the forefront. Earl Beyer, a fixture of the Mt. Gretna Visitors Center (formerly the original post office), shared that “the community is indeed multi-generational as each new addition writes the next chapter in a familial history.” Gretna skews to the established order but welcomes newcomers like MG Mercantile, bringing a breath of fresh air to the tried and true. The newly opened outpost just celebrated its first anniversary, offering residents an eclectic array of “curated groceries and gifts,” perfect for entertaining.

A Hamlet, a Hub, a Happening

Thousands of seasonal enthusiasts enjoy the nostalgia-inducing venues and activities that make Mt. Gretna such a memorable place. The backdrop of Victorian cottages and wide range of attractions endear it in the hearts of many. As a child, I was taken every summer to this wooded glen where it seemed like time stood still. With all the trappings of what summer is all about, from seeing a play, enjoying a concert and ending the night with an ice cream sundae, truth be told, it was where I was first exposed to the arts.

The “branding” of the community is an unwritten bonus in linking all the component parts under the umbrella of “Mt. Gretna,” even though all businesses are independently owned and operated. From the lake and beach swimming facility to the Playhouse, to mini-golf, to the Tabernacle, to the roller rink, and even its own pizzeria. If you’re looking for a place to stay, there is, of course, Mt. Gretna Realty, as well as Penn Realty. For dining, a perennial favorite since 1895, The Jigger Shop is known for its light kitchen fare and legendary ice cream sundae. Just a bit up the road is a local watering hole and restaurant, the Hideaway Café. If you’re looking for dinner theater, the Timbers Playhouse and Restaurant showcases the latest from Broadway and beyond. Searching for breakfast or lunch, be sure to visit the Porch and Pantry adjacent to the parking lot. Looking for art, stop in at Le Cigale, housing linens and textiles. And speaking of art, music and its ilk, a summer concert series is held at the Playhouse, an annual event that starts Aug. 6 and is a tongue-in-cheek nod to the insect interlopers as their distinctive chatter is likened to the musicians for the annual Cicada Music Festival.

Icing on the Cake

All of these traditions lead to the main event of summer and what is regarded as one of the very best art festivals in the country. It’s fitting that the “Year of the Arts” in Lebanon Valley coincides with the 50th anniversary celebration of Mt. Gretna Outdoor Art Show.

What started out in 1974 as a grassroots, down-home art show has become a blockbuster and economic boon to the entire area. Mt. Gretna rolls out the red carpet in this massive undertaking that welcomes approximately 10,000 visitors in a two-day span. The festival showcases over 200 professional and emerging artists who enchant the grounds with their own distinctive trove of treasures. As Aug. 17 and 18 are circled on the calendar, the community spares no amount of sweat equity in preparation, with a crew of 300 volunteers behind the scenes. It is a true thing of beauty when it all comes together as Kerry Royer, festival director, dedicates this year’s golden gala as “honoring the impact this nationally ranked event has on our region.”

“The show will celebrate all the cultural, artistic, educational and performance events in our town,” she said. “As we commemorate this milestone, we will recognize how the arts have created our unique sense of place in the Lebanon Valley.”

This year’s festival heralds a “plus one” with the inaugural chapter of Mt. Gretna’s International Film Festival that will be held on Sunday, Aug. 18, from 12 to 3 p.m. at the Historic Playhouse. It will feature five-minute short films across a wide swath of categories, with cash awards handed out at the finish. The festival is dedicated to honor Michael Evan Dietzler, whose fervent wish was to start a film festival in the hometown he loved. As a note of interest, Gretna did hold a film festival in August 1978.

With such a spectacular weekend of art and film, do not be deterred by the magnitude of visitors. If it has worked like a charm for 49 years, this year should be “easy-peasy,” much like this little hamlet off the beaten path. If one can dream it, it must be in Mt. Gretna.

The Mt. Gretna Outdoor Art Show takes place Aug. 17-18. For more information, visit www.mtgretnaarts.com.

A huge debt of gratitude to Jack Bitner and his groundbreaking tribute on the rich history and lore of Mt. Gretna in his book, “Mt. Gretna—a Coleman Legacy.”

An Arcadian Hymn

I sing to thee Mt. Gretna

You of the sylvan woods and towering pines

The running streams and gurgling brooks

The treasures of the great outdoors, life unwinds

Curving paths surround and shield thy hidden nooks

I sing to thee Mt, Gretna

Found at Scion’s Summit

Untouched by time in memoriam

Thy pristine beauty lies before

And reveals Nature’s conservatorium

We sing to thee Mt. Gretna

Place the laurel wreath high for

Chautauqua’s golden hour

Traverse and span the wooded glen

Climb hill and vale and bower

We sing to thee Mt. Gretna

Your beauty boundless

Our love doth profess

Step back to halcyon days of yore

To be refreshed

Nature doth restore

~Bob MacGinnes

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

August Publisher’s Note

July 30, 2024 | by Lawrance Binda

At TheBurg, we have what’s called a “high-class problem.”

Try as we might, we can’t seem to print enough copies to meet the huge and constantly growing demand for our monthly magazine.

Every month, we get emails and phone calls from folks who are having a hard time hunting down a copy of the current issue.

For example, last month, one reader complained that she tried three different spots on the west shore, but all were out within days of our initial delivery.

We’re so sorry!

Trust me—we are out there delivering. Each month, we print upwards of 20,000 copies and distribute to over 500 locations in seven counties across south-central PA

But folks often scoop them up as soon as we drop them off. Our distributors have many stories of people literally yanking copies from their hands as they try to make a delivery.

So, if you’re having trouble finding a copy, I have a few tips:

Start early. Our initial delivery run takes place the last few days of the month for the following month’s issue. Early bird gets TheBurg.

Search out alternatives. Our distribution locations are listed on our website, so you may find another spot near you.

Subscribe. On our website, you can subscribe to our magazine, and we’ll mail it right to you every month—guaranteed!

Read the digital issue. You can read the entire issue in its digital form on our website.

Visit us. There’s a street box right outside our Harrisburg office. Each month, we hold back a bundle or two so that that box is always stocked.

Support us. We’d love to print and distribute even more. It’s one of our long-term goals, but it’s also very costly. By joining Friends of TheBurg, you can help us grow. Details are on our website!

Anyway, if you’re reading this, you’ve successfully snagged a copy of our August issue, where you’ll find our customary mix of community news, high-quality features and must-do events, along with a special focus on youth and schools. Enjoy—and, when you’re done, please generously pass along your copy to a Burg-less friend.

Lawrance Binda
Publisher/Editor

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

August News Digest

July 30, 2024 | by Lawrance Binda and Maddie Gittens

South Bridge Funding Announced

A major project to replace Harrisburg’s I-83 South Bridge has received a significant funding boost of $500 million.

At a press conference last month, U.S. Secretary of Transportation Pete Buttigieg announced that federal infrastructure funds will help support the $1 billion bridge project.

“There was a clear need for bridge repairs to overcome the decades of underinvestment from Washington, and nowhere is that need greater than the I-83 South Bridge right here in Harrisburg,” Buttigieg said.

The full project includes work on the east and west shores of the Susquehanna, including widening the highway and reconstructing interchanges and bridges along the route.

According to PennDOT, the 64-year-old South Bridge, between Harrisburg and Lemoyne, is aging and no longer meets current design standards. Over 125,000 cars drive over the bridge every day, officials shared.

PennDOT originally proposed tolling the bridge to support the costly construction, but that plan died following widespread local criticism and a lawsuit filed by several western PA towns opposing the state’s bridge-tolling plan. At the press event, Gov. Josh Shapiro confirmed that there is, in fact, still no plan to toll the bridge.

The bridge replacement is slated to begin in 2026 and take two to three years, said PennDOT Secretary Mike Carroll. Traffic flow will be maintained during construction, as the new bridge will be built next to the old bridge, before it is torn down, Carroll said.

The funding is part of $5 billion in Large Bridge Project awards through the Federal Highway Administration’s competitive Bridge Investment Program, which will benefit 13 bridges in 16 states.

“This really is an example of how things should work as local, state federal, county, everybody works in unison to deliver something important that no one party could do alone,” Buttigieg said.

According to Shapiro, this is the largest federal grant for a single transportation project that Pennsylvania has ever received.

No Tax Hike in School Budget

School property taxes will not increase for Harrisburg residents this year.

At a board meeting in late June, the Harrisburg School District passed its $211.7 million 2024-25 budget, a spending plan that does not include a tax increase.

Taxes will remain at 30.78 mills, as the school board voted to approve the tax structure. School property taxes are the only matter that the district’s board votes on while under receivership.

Dr. Marcia Stokes, the district’s chief financial officer, noted that, while the rate will stay the same, Harrisburg taxpayers who qualify for the Homestead Exemption may actually see a decrease on their tax bill in the coming year. This is due to an expected increase in state tax relief funds for the district.

The largest expenditures in the budget include salaries and benefits for employees, debt payments, charter school tuition costs and renovations and HVAC replacements.

This year’s budget is lower than the previous year’s budget of $222.8 million, mostly due to less federal COVID-relief funds available to the district this year. The 2024-25 budget includes $8.5 million total in federal Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief (ESSER) funds, the remainder of that money available to the district.

Building Demolition Denied

A proposal to demolish a building on N. Front Street in Harrisburg has been denied.

Harrisburg City Council voted 4-2 last month to reject a proposed demo for 1511 N. Front St., expressing concerns about taking down a building in the city’s historic district and replacing it with parking.

Council members Crystal Davis and Ausha Green voted in favor of approving a certificate of appropriateness to demo the building.

Currently, 1511 N. Front St. consists of a 5,144-square-foot, two-story building. Owner Guy Cipriano of New Jersey-based EI Realty proposed demolishing the building and expanding the current parking lot.

“Just knocking down a building and not putting anything back is something I don’t think our city needs at this time,” said council member Lamont Jones. “We really need business and living space.”

The proposal for a certificate of appropriateness to raze the building, built in 1957, was denied by the Harrisburg Architectural Review Board in April. The applicant filed an appeal to have the application reviewed by council, according to city Solicitor Neil Grover.

Governor’s Square Still in Limbo

A blighted, bankrupt affordable housing development in Harrisburg is struggling to secure a new buyer.

The Residences at Governor’s Square, owned by Uptown Partners LLC, has several bidders and interested parties for its 200-plus-unit apartment complex, but none have yet received required federal approvals, Uptown Partners’ attorney said during a court hearing last month in the U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the Middle District of Pennsylvania.

Uptown Partners filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy in August 2023 and has since sought a buyer for its properties, which have hundreds of code citations and condemnations and have long struggled with safety and quality-of-life issues for residents.

In January, the owner identified New Jersey-based real estate company ANCDI as the proposed buyer with an offer of $9.6 million, submitted through an auction. Additionally, 2087 Market Street LLC offered $9.5 million and Woda Cooper Companies, an Ohio-based affordable housing provider, offered $9.1 million.

However, the sale is still pending as none of the bidders have received federal U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) approval, which is required in order for the buyer to operate the affordable housing complex.

At a hearing in April, Uptown Partners’ attorney Robert Chernicoff explained that 2087 Market Street LLC moved into the top position as a buyer, being the only company working actively with Uptown Partners and HUD. However, on Tuesday, Chernicoff said that HUD has not yet received all required documents from any of the potential buyers.

The hearing to determine a buyer for Governor’s Square was continued to Sept. 10.

Chernicoff also noted that there are now two new interested buyers, but declined to say who they are.

If no progress is made with the current bidders, Chernicoff said that he would need to get the court’s approval to consider other interested parties, possibly through another auction.

“Sober Ride” Program to Launch

A local organization is offering to be the designated driver for nights out downtown.

Tri-County Regional Planning Commission (TCRPC) announced last month the launch of its pilot program, “Sober Ride Home,” which aims to reduce the number of impaired driving incidents by offering free rideshare vouchers for those consuming alcohol at local bars and restaurants.

“In our region, about 40% of fatal crashes and 30% of serious injury crashes involve impaired drivers,” TCRPC Executive Director Steve Deck said. “The majority of these crashes happen between Thursday and Saturday.”

Rideshare vouchers will be available on weekends via QR codes placed in bars and restaurants, and the code will direct users to the Uber app where the ride will be free. There is a maximum allowance of $40, which Deck said covers about the distance from Harrisburg to Hershey. Vouchers will be offered in Cumberland, Dauphin and Perry counties. To start, users cannot exceed one voucher per day.

The program’s trial run is slated to begin before Labor Day and will run for a year, with a larger goal of implementing a permanent system in the future.

“People have tried things like this before and found it difficult to sustain over the long term,” Deck said. “That’s really one of the things that we hope to learn from this process, whether it’s public-private partnerships, a variety of different things—how do we make a program like this last?”

New Gym Debuts Uptown

The Jewish Federation of Greater Harrisburg has opened the new Symons Family Fitness Center at its Alexander Grass Campus for Jewish Life.

The federation moved into the Alexander Grass Campus at 2986 N. 2nd St. in October 2023 and has been expanding its services at the location since.

The 11,750-square-foot space includes brand new bikes, treadmills, ellipticals, free weights and weight machines with access to personal trainers. It features two locker rooms with saunas, family and gender-neutral changing rooms and studio spaces for group and personal training sessions. Class offerings include yoga, spin, strength training and dance exercise.

The federation’s former location on N. Front Street included a fitness center, which inspired the organization to update the new campus with the same amenity.

“In this new space, we are able to offer a completely different facility that I think now better represents who this community is on the outside and who we’ve always been on the inside,” said Abby Smith, chair of the board of directors. “It’s a testament to the way the Jewish community has evolved and the way the greater Harrisburg community has evolved to different needs.”

The gym is located on the second floor of the Grass Center Building, which is the most central building on the campus.

Memberships start at $35 a month for an individual membership, and the gym is open to people of all faiths, backgrounds and abilities.

“We have something for all people, whether you’re a fitness guru or fitness novice, at any age,” Smith said.

Home Sales Dip, Prices Rise

Harrisburg-area home sales were generally lower in June, but prices were up, according to the latest report on previously owned houses.

For the three-county region, 593 homes sold compared to 659 in June 2023, as the median sales price rose to $290,000 from $273,000, said the Greater Harrisburg Association of Realtors (GHAR).

In Dauphin County, GHAR reported 291 home sales in June versus 332 in the year-ago period, as the median sales price increased to $280,000 from $242,500.

Cumberland County had 264 home sales in June, a decrease of 30 units from a year ago, but the median sales price rose to $320,000 from $315,000, GHAR said.

In Perry County, 38 houses sold in June, an increase of three, as the median sales price dropped to $230,000 from $249,275 the prior year, according to GHAR.

The pace of sales picked up, as the “average days on market” dropped to 20 days in June versus 23 days a year ago, GHAR said.

So Noted

Amber Roadcap last month was named the new executive director of the LGBT Center of Central PA. Roadcap replaces interim director Amanda Carter, who has served in the role since January, following the departure of long-time director Amanda Arbour.

Hamilton Health Center last month cut the ribbon on its newest facility, a 20,000-square-foot location at 120 N. Front St., Steelton. The new center is part of a mixed-use development, The Steel Works project, developed by Wormleysburg-based Integrated Development Partners.

Jennifer Doyle last month was appointed the new president and CEO of the Foundation for Enhancing Communities (TFEC), a regional nonprofit that manages charitable funds, assets and investments while serving to build community. Doyle fills the position following the departure of Janice Black, who retired in January after 29 years in the role.

Premier Arts and Science Charter School will cease operations, months after the Harrisburg School District denied its charter renewal. The school, in operation since 2013, opted not to oppose the non-renewal and, instead, began the “winding down” process.

Ron Leitzel and Tonia Leitzel Ulsh, the brother/sister co-owners of Mountz Jewelers, have been selected as 2024 inductees for its Retailer Hall of Fame, an honor given to jewelers who’ve made significant contributions to their communities and industry. National Jeweler, an industry trade publication, names inductees annually.

TheBurg last month was named “News Organization of the Year” by the Pennsylvania NewsMedia Association Foundation. This is the fourth straight year that TheBurg has received this top recognition, which honors excellence in all aspects of a news outlet, including editorial, design and sales.

Zach Benjamin last month was named the new president and CEO of the Jewish Federation of Greater Harrisburg. Benjamin, who replaces David Cohen, will continue overseeing the organization’s transition to its new location at the Alexander Grass Campus for Jewish Life in Uptown Harrisburg.

Changing Hands

Berryhill St., 1510: J. Zabala to M. Khan, $57,000

Berryhill St., 1533: Smart Realty Pros LLC to Martinez & Guaman Associated LLC, $75,000

Berryhill St., 1639: 4 Star Properties LLC to Dreamland Envision Properties LLC, $72,000

Briggs St., 1921, 1923 & 1926 and 1916, 1918 and 1920 North St.: United Holy Church of America, Northern District Inc. to Living Christian Church Ministries, $195,000

Brookwood St., 2022: A. Almabruk to Magous Properties LLC, $135,000

Burchfield St., 315 & 317: Zook Rentals to Eshnest LLC, $320,000

Chestnut St., 2027: C. Watson to A. Paulino, $118,000

Crescent St., 226: D. & S. Zimmerman to B. Thermozier, $135,000

Derry St., 1605: A. Davis Jr. to T. & N. Celestin, $140,000

Derry St., 2025: A. Almabruk to Magous Properties LLC, $135,000

Derry St., 2624: P. & J. Lewis to J. & M. Garcia, $125,000

Emerald St., 319: R. Payne to Fourvision Consulting LLC, $60,000

Graham St., 500: R. Goad to J. Queen, $200,000

Green St., 916: Capozzi & Ehring Realty LLC to Titania Real Estate LLC, $225,000

Green St., 920: C. Korinda & J. Frankenburger to W. & T. Wood, $274,230

Green St., 922: S. Winkeljohn & D. Black to K. O’Flaherty, $285,000

Green St., 1209: TOIV LLC to ARM 1209 Green PA LLC, $330,000

Green St., 1621: J. Warren to Empower Estate Properties LLC, $150,000

Green St., 2122: S. Laroc to R. Nunez, $200,000

Greenwood St., 2103: G. Wingert to Stein Equities LLC, $77,000

Herr St., 258: Fratelli Property Investments LLC to A. Prime & N. Chauvin, $258,750

Hoffman St., 3105: M. de la Rosa & F. Molina to E. Klinger & Z. Rouse, $285,000

Holly St., 1837: E. Torres to J. Villa, $107,000

Hummel St., 238: Tri County HDC Ltd. to Y. Estevez, $126,900

Hunter St., 1617: S. Scott to A. Norris, $86,000

Jefferson St., 2922 & 2940: 2940 Jefferson Street Associates LLC to RAKD Properties 2 LLC, $405,000

Kelker St., 636: Buonarroti Trust to W. & J. Dallas, $86,000

Kensington St., 1926: Maco Properties LLC to Kroxlie Properties LLC, $115,000

Kensington St., 2258: C. Mundy & L. Barrelet to New Ventures Investments LLC, $85,000

Lenox St., 2030: R. Hippensteel to Burama Enterprises, $100,000

Nectarine St., 346: A. Williams Jr. to Integrity First Home Buyers LLC, $115,000

North St., 262: Spuntina LLC to Titania Real Estate LLC, $285,000

North St., 1619: A. Hoskote to Aponte Family Homes LLC, $120,000

N. 2nd St., 936: B. Spurrier to Elite Skyline Residences LLC, $305,000

N. 2nd St., 2321: Central PA Buyers LLC to Elite Remodeling Realty LLC, $117,000

N. 2nd St., 2842: Grentals LLC to T. & T. Tran, $235,200

N. 2nd St., 3028: K. Harmon & T. Little to D. Bradley & E. Berry, $236,000

N. 3rd St., 2227: C. & A. Smucker to GJD 2020 Trust, $230,000

N. 3rd St., 3106: T. Gazette & R. Long to L. Beiler, $189,000

N. 4th St., 1703: S. Bradley & R. Daman to P. Gibson, $232,500

N. 6th St., 3142: S. Hazelton to EA Capital LLC, $118,000

N. 7th St., 2712: Merrick Solo 401K Trust to New Ventures Investments LLC, $94,000

N. 13th St., 121: A. Collins to M. Gehman, $130,000

N. 14th St., 1208: JTA Consulting Group LLC to B. Johnson, $145,000

N. 15th St., 917: JTA Consulting Group LLC to E. Cowfer, $169,900

N. 16th St., 918: Upscale Properties LLC to G. & G. Belfort, $235,000

N. 16th St., 1208: HLI Properties PA LLC to M. Blank, $165,000

N. 20th St., 20 & 22: ILL Holdings to DKH Homes LLC, $160,000

N. Front St., 1525, Unit 507: X. Samuel to R. Cohen, $160,000

Penn St., 1204: S. Kirkpatrick & C. Rowe to S. Sircar, $255,000

Penn St., 1317: D. Reinhart to M. James, $170,000

Pennwood Rd., 3137: H. Benner to D. Benford, $178,900

Regina St., 1446: R. Brown to J. Monegro, $215,000

Ross St., 622: Peart Investment Partners LLC to Y. Morgan, $57,500

Rudy Rd., 2101 & 2107: Bomadeck Home Care Services LLC to J. Dobson & D. Kimble, $230,000

Rumson Dr., 273: A. McGraw to G. & M. Romero, $150,000

Sassafras St., 205: C. Perry to J. Muskovitz, $157,500

Schuylkill St., 526: Sangrey Properties LLC to 526 Schuylkill St. LLC, $600,000

Seneca St., 601: Ultra Renovations & Investments Inc. to C. & S. Amalinze, $167,000

Showers St., 716: L. Kraynak to R. Keener, $225,000

S. 14th St., 230: Lorfax 1 LLC to M. Cade, $130,000

S. 14th St., 447: Gary Neff & City Limits Realty to B. & A. Muzirwa, $68,500

S. 15th St., 316: Cooperwink LLC to HSP Real Estate LLC, $70,000

S. 18th St., 14: Integrity First Home Buyers LLC to L. & R. Newswanger, $169,000

S. 18th St., 23: Val de Vie Estate Investments LLC to E. Applyrs, $145,000

S. 19th St., 260: CRS Housing LLC to P. Falisiewicz, $147,000

S. 24th St., 628: Central PA Buyers LLC to J. Barrios, $158,000

State St., 202: WCI Partners LP to D. & L. Butcher, $465,000

State St., 1304 & 1308: R. & L. Goldberg to AAA Bouslama Property LLC, $208,000

State St., 1624: WLW Holdings LLC to B. Smith, $60,000

State St., 1920: O. & R Bower to First Choice Home Buyers LLC, $56,500

State St., 1922: O. & R Bower to First Choice Home Buyers LLC, $56,500

Summit St., 30: R. & D. Waibel to B. Uppalapati & S. Adusumilli, $55,000

Susquehanna St., 2006: PD Estate Properties LLC to M. Parker & B. Burke, $60,000

Swatara St., 2051: K. McClain Jr. to K. McClain, $135,000

Thompson St., 1540: A. Reid to G. & S. Rodriguez, $75,000

Walnut St., 1702: D&F Realty Holdings LP to P. Peguero & M. Smith, $132,000

Wiconisco St., 610: R. & D. Requa to MAT Holdings LLC, $70,000

Wiconisco St., 612: R. & D. Requa to MAT Holdings LLC, $80,000

Wiconisco St., 614: R. & D. Requa to MAT Holdings LLC, $80,000

Wiconisco St., 616: Dauphin County Technical School to Brethren Housing Association, $145,000

Woodbine St., 334: R. Kumar to A. Troyer, $120,000

Harrisburg property sales, greater than $50,000, June 2024. Source: Dauphin County. Data is assumed to be accurate.

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

Burg Review: Orville Peck ‘saddles up and rides’ at Riverfront Park

July 29, 2024 | by Kawena Jacobs

Orville Peck performs in Riverfront Park (photo: Skye Leppo)

Sure-footed showman and 1970s-country disciple Orville Peck gave concertgoers a night full of unbridled energy and authenticity on Sunday.

The concert, a continuation of Harrisburg University’s Summer Concert Series in Riverfront Park, included a lineup with two openers preceding Peck.

First was LA-based artist Gold Star, whose mix of time-honored country rock and fresh indie provided a solid warm-up for the crowd. For only having a bassist and drummer to back up the musician and his guitar, the sound did not lack size or enthusiasm. Gold Star’s sonic sweet spot and the set’s closer was his January single “Wild Boys,” his nostalgic ode to a rowdy childhood.

Next up, with a band donning various kinds of animal print shirts, was the effortlessly cool Jaime Wyatt. From her pastel pink get-up to her deep, warm tone that invoked artists of years gone by, she oozed star potential. I would not be surprised if Wyatt found herself back at Riverfront Park in a year or two as the headline act.

Jaime Wyatt (photo: Skye Leppo)

For the time being, though, she and her band were all smiles for what she said was their first night on Peck’s tour. They looked and sounded best when they got lost in the groove—the band tossing riffs back and forth, Wyatt strutting around the stage and belting it out to her songs like “Back To The Country” and “Love Is A Place.” If you’re a fan of earnest lyricism and smart outlaw country, I recommend you keep her on your radar.

The crowd grew bigger throughout the two opening sets, with many fans wearing replica masks like Peck’s—long, leather or rhinestone tassels hanging from the bottom—while others opted for glittery cowboy hats and boots.

Everything lent itself to an electric environment by the time Peck graced the stage. His set began with the mysterious and sultry “Big Sky,” a tale of wandering and woeful past relationships. “Turn to Hate” followed, which upped the tempo and lit a fire under Peck, who tapped a crash cymbal with the heel of his boot as he ran by the drum kit.

Hearing Peck’s rumbling, low voice in recordings does not compare to the shock of hearing it live, nor the delight each time he added grit for the dramatic effect. Between that and his infectious spirit, I was hooked in just two songs.

What really sealed the deal for me was “How Far Will We Take It?” in which he featured his background singer Emily Rose, singing in place of Noah Cyrus who sings on the recording. The country ballad was tender and warm, their tight harmonies punctuated by bending steel guitar notes and ringing toms. Whether the song is lively or soft, Peck has the chops.

His signature cowboy aesthetics were fun and flashy in performance, but they also acted as a vessel for his exploration of the queer experience. Peck is openly gay, an identity that has not historically been welcomed in country music, yet his best songs showcased why they really should go hand-in-hand.

Orville Peck (photo: Skye Leppo)

For instance, “Dead of Night,” which stretched Peck to both ends of his vocal range as he sang of longing for a lost love, or his and Willie Nelson’s cover of “Cowboys Are Frequently Secretly Fond Of Each Other.” Before doing the song solo, Peck pointed to the wings and jokingly began to introduce Nelson, one of the many crowd interactions he laced into his performance.

He also had several “rose ceremonies,” in which he gave roses to audience members, and even dedicated his song “Drive Me, Crazy” to a truck driver in the audience named Jim. In between songs, he cracked several jokes, but also opened up about his mental health as it related to his songwriting and the cancellation of his tour last year.

Most important were his three rules for those who attend his concerts: sing every song even if you don’t know the words, dance if you are able to, and cry if you need to cry. All this considered, it’s no wonder he’s developed a cult-following—and I just might be joining.

SET LIST

Big Sky
Turn to Hate
Roses Are Falling
The Hurtin’ Kind
C’mon Baby, Cry
No Glory In The West
Hexie Mountains
How Far Will We Take It?
Conquer the Heart
Drive Me, Crazy
Blush
The Curse of the Blackened Eye
Lafayette
Any Turn
Cowboys Are Frequently Secretly Fond of Each Other
Outta Time
Kalahari Down
Dead of Night
Daytona Sand

ENCORE: Bronco

For more information on Harrisburg University Presents and upcoming shows, visit their website.

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

Back to school supplies drive to benefit Harrisburg area students

July 29, 2024 | by Jolie Lloyd

Officials with Renewal by Andersen, All You Can Inc. and local students.

As the school year approaches, local families in need can find peace of mind about school supplies shopping.

“Back 2 School Drive 4 Success,” run by Renewal by Andersen and Harrisburg-based All You Can Inc., is currently accepting donations of school supplies for students in need.

The drive will be open for donations of school supplies, gift cards and checks from now until August 9. Donations can be dropped off at Renewal by Andersen’s Mechanicsburg Showroom at 4856 Carlisle Pike during business hours, Monday through Saturday, or ordered online and shipped directly to their address.

“By furnishing these basic school supplies, all of us better prepare these students for a positive start to their school year,” said Renewal by Andersen Central PA Owner Joe Zisman, in a statement.

The items collected in the drive will be given to students currently being served by All You Can Inc., a local nonprofit whose mission is to provide basic needs assistance and emergency resources to at-risk families in the Harrisburg area.

“We are extremely grateful to Renewal by Andersen for continuing to empower our youth,” said Ralph Rodriguez, president of All You Can Inc. “We are asking Central PA to also join us to make a meaningful difference in the lives of families who struggle to provide these back-to-school essentials.”

As inflation has driven up the cost of daily living, buying back-to-school supplies puts even more strain on families living in poverty, Renewal by Andersen officials stated in a press release. Studies show that having their own school supplies tends to improve students’ grades, creativity, attitudes towards learning, behavior, peer relationships and self-image, the company stated.

“Many families struggle with the cost of food and in paying their household bills so sadly are unable to afford school supplies,” said Linda Johnston, chief culture officer at Renewal by Andersen of Central PA. “Our Renewal team is happy to assist these students and families by equipping them with essential educational supplies to set them up for a successful start to the school year while showing them we care.”

To view a list of supplies needed, visit Back 2 School Drive 4 Success’s Amazon gift list. To learn more about All You Can, Inc., visit their Facebook page.

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

National Night Out will return to City Island with food, games and community building

July 29, 2024 | by Maddie Gittens

National Night Out 2023. Photo courtesy of the City of Harrisburg.

Next week, first responders and the community get a chance to eat, play and have fun together.

The city’s annual National Night Out, hosted by the Harrisburg Police Bureau, will take place on City Island on Tuesday, Aug. 6, from 5 to 8:30 p.m.

National Night Out block parties take place annually across the country on the first Tuesday of August. Last year was Harrisburg’s first time holding the event on City Island, and thousands of residents attended, according to the city.

“We had such a great turnout last year, so we thought, let’s do it again, and make it better,” Harrisburg Police Captain Russell Winder said. “Now, people have heard about it, and if they didn’t get a chance to experience it, now they can take advantage of it.”

Police officers, firefighters and EMTs will participate in National Night Out, which will include family-friendly activities and games, food and music. There will also be over 50 nonprofit organizations onsite to provide information and resources.

Ten food vendors, including food trucks, will serve up bites in the Harrisburg Beach Club and in the Harrisburg Senators VIP parking lot area. Representatives with the Salvation Army will man the grill, and additional offerings include tacos, empanadas and Farm Show milkshakes. Additionally, Blue Bear BBQ, a food truck operated by Harrisburg Police Officer Wesley Feduke, will be onsite.

“This will be the most diverse offering of foods we’ve ever had for National Night Out,” Winder said.

Attendees can board the City Island Railroad, which will make stops at its main station, outside Water Golf and the old arcade building to help people travel around the island. The City Island Carousel is also expected to be running on National Night Out.

Near the carousel, the police K9 division will offer demonstrations with police dogs, and a helicopter will land on the soccer field around 6 p.m. for tours. The Harrisburg Fire Bureau will also offer opportunities to hop in a truck’s bucket, along Championship Way outside the FNB Field third baseline.

Harrisburg police will make a splash at a dunk tank. Community members can take a chance at dunking Deputy Police Chief Kenny Young and other officers. Kids can also enjoy free face painting, balloons and entertainment from a magician.

For live music offerings, jazz performers will play by the island’s east end overlook deck. Additionally, the Harrisburg Cougars Cheerleaders will perform cheers along the festival route.

Participants can get a move on at a new jazzercise class in the pavilion between the carousel and FNB Field. Former Pennsylvania State Police Lt. Colonel Kristal Turner-Childs, the first Black woman in the department to attain the rank, will teach the class.

The north side of City Island, along Riverside Drive and Championship Way, will be closed to vehicle traffic during the event, although cyclists are welcome to bike throughout the island.

Free parking will be available in both north and south parking lots, with sections for handicap parking and golf carts to transport those who need assistance.

Capital Area Transit, a service of Rabbit Transit, will provide free bus service on city routes from 5 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. A shuttle at the Market Square Transfer Center will take people across the river.

For more information on National Night Out, visit the city’s website.

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

The Week that Was: News and features around Harrisburg

July 26, 2024 | by Lawrance Binda and Maddie Gittens

Downtown Daily Bread and local officials cut the ribbon on the center’s new food pantry.

What’s your weekend vibe? Shopping local businesses? Visiting your favorite restaurants? Taking a riverfront walk? Reading your favorite local magazine? We hope it’s all of the above! Whatever your plans, make sure to first catch up on this week’s news, below.

Animal advocate Essie Petrovich has spearheaded an initiative to spread the animal welfare message of spaying and neutering, our magazine story reported. Petrovich created a spay/neuter license plate that the public can purchase to benefit the cause.

Cleve J. Fredricksen Library’s “Read to Dogs” program allows kids to read to furry listeners, helping them become more confident in their skills. In our magazine story, hear what participants have to say about the benefits of the program.

Dog Safety is an important lesson to teach kids. In our magazine story, find tips and tricks for introducing kids to dogs that will keep everyone safe, smiling and tail wagging.

Downtown Daily Bread cut the ribbon on its new Renewed Hope Food Pantry in its Harrisburg facility, our online story reported. The pantry will serve clients who may not feel comfortable coming into the center for hot meals, but need grocery assistance.

Fireworks at Harrisburg’s Labor Day weekend Kipona Festival are canceled, the city shared this week, our story reported. Mayor Wanda Williams said that she would halt the display in light of incidents involving guns at previous city firework displays.

Harrisburg is seeking expressions of interest for architectural and engineering services for the market’s brick building rebuild, our online story reported. The city plans soon to open the request for proposals (RFP) process, which will be by invite-only.

The Information Technology Bureau in Harrisburg completed a critical piece of its years-long IT upgrade, our online story reported. The new protections put in place will help defend the city’s data against cyber attacks and allow operations to be maintained if city hall ever shuts down during an emergency.

Mecum Harrisburg’s collector car auction returned to the PA Farm Show Complex, starting on Wednesday and running through Saturday, our online story reported.

The Paris Olympic Games begin on Friday. While you may not be able to make it to Paris, there are still many options to get a taste of French cuisine locally. Find some recommendations, here.

Sara Bozich’s Weekend Roundup gives you plenty of suggestions for how to have fun in and around Harrisburg.

UPMC and Penn State College of Medicine launched a “Health to Go” vending machine outside its emergency department, our online story reported. The machine, one of the first of its kind in the state, offers 24/7 access to free items like naloxone, pregnancy tests and personal care items.

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

Support quality local journalism. Join Friends of TheBurg today!

Let the Games Begin: Local French businesses highlight 2024 Olympics in Paris

July 26, 2024 | by Sylvia Grove

Chef de Crêpe is decked out for the start of the Olympic Games, including its featured, “White Chocolate Cheesecake” milkshake, on the right.

The 2024 Paris Olympic Games will take place from Friday, July 26 to Sunday, Aug. 11, featuring over 10,000 athletes and 1.8 million international visitors. For a taste of Paris without the plane ticket, check out the following regional eateries with a passion for filling your plate with global flavors.

Bistro Barbaret & Bakery
26 E. King St., Lancaster
(717) 690-2354
https://barberetlancasterpa.com/

Bistro Barbaret & Bakery is located in downtown Lancaster, run by the award-winning French pastry chef Cédric Barbaret and his wife Estelle. The bakery features classic French macarons and pastries – such as the coffee-and-chocolate layered “L’opéra” cake – alongside Pennsylvania-inspired desserts, including the “Snickers” made with peanut butter mousse, salted caramel and a hazelnut dacquoise.

For a quick meal, grab any number of the bakery’s ready-made baguettes, sandwiches, salads or quiches. For a heartier option, schedule brunch, lunch or dinner in the bistro, where classic French appetizers like escargots (snails) and Lyonnaise quenelles cozy up with entrées like mussels, steak-frites, and bouillabaisse fish stews (weekends only). Bon appétit!

Chef de Crêpe
2017 Market St., Camp Hill
(717) 603-3821
https://chefdecrepes.com/

Inspired by the Chaverez family’s passion for study and travel in Europe, Chef de Crêpe serves up sweet and savory crêpes with fun American twists alongside French-themed burgers, salads, sandwiches and coffee. For the best of Pennsylvania and France, order the Philly steak crêpe with angus beef and sautéed mushrooms and finish with the seasonal peach cobbler crêpe with dulce de leche and a shortbread crumble.

For the Olympics (known in French as “les Jeux Olympiques”), the restaurant will be featuring themed stuffed croissants on Saturdays starting July 27, and a towering “White Chocolate Cheesecake” milkshake topped with a French flag sugar cookie.

Mandros Imported Foods
351 N. Charlotte St., Lancaster
(717) 397-8926
www.mandrosimportedfoods.net/

Mandros Imported Foods offers one of the region’s best and fairly priced selections of international treats, including a rich selection of Greek olive oils, Italian pastas and barrel feta. For a taste of France, look for jars of zippy mustard from Dijon, jam from the Pyrennées mountains near Spain, and paper-wrapped packets of golden-hued Isigny Ste. Mère butter. Ask for French cheese advice at the counter at the far end of the store, where brothers Bill and Dino will guide you from triple crème brie to lacy blue Roquefort and everything in between.

Au Bon Lieu
110 Rear W. Chocolate Ave,, Hershey
Strawberry Square, 1 N. 3rd St., Harrisburg
https://aubonlieu.com/

You may have to drive past the entrance once before you find it, but this small crêperie behind the Knock Knock Boutique on West Chocolate Avenue has been a Hershey staple for 10 years. Serving a focused menu that includes French-pressed coffee and light salads, Au Bon Lieu’s savory crêpes prize Mediterranean ingredients like pesto, olives and mozzarella. Their dessert crêpes feature Belgian chocolate, homemade caramel, and fresh fruit. Can’t get to Hershey? Visit the Strawberry Square location in Harrisburg instead. At either location, mention the 2024 Olympics Games and receive a free Classic Crêpe – flavors include the iconic French combination of butter and lemon – on the house.

Frédéric Loraschi Chocolate
4615 Hillcrest St., Harrisburg
www.fredericloraschichocolate.com/

Owner Frédéric Loraschi has been crafting artisanal chocolates and single-origin bars in the Harrisburg area since 2005. Only recently has he added an exceptional array of French viennoiseries, like croissants or pain au chocolat, on Saturdays. Visit his sleek boutique off of Jonestown Road for rich ice cream sold by the pint, luxury hot chocolate and classic truffles, caramels, macarons and pâté de fruits. For your Olympic watch party, order a decadent Banoffee (feeds 6-8) with coconut, caramelized bananas and passionfruit cream. If you’re not one for tropical fruits, consider the “Blueberry Cloud” cake featuring toasted almonds, a moist vanilla sponge, and white chocolate mousse. Either cake will be likely to convince you that French baking merits its own Olympic category.

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

You May Also Like

You May Also Like

You May Also Like

You May Also Like

You May Also Like

You May Also Like

You May Also Like

You May Also Like

You May Also Like

You May Also Like