Weekend Roundup with Sara Bozich

February 22, 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: How ’bout a jazz show on Saturday night at The Forum, a Harrisburg gem. Worth noting: Mac & Motors – Macaroni & Cheese Festival on Sunday; new beer fest FeBREWuary at the GIANT Center. Things on my agenda this weekend:

For your weekend planning

HU Presents Sing & Swing Our American Songbook • A Jazz at Lincoln Center Production at The Forum
Discover SCG Spa in Carlisle
See what else you missed on the blog

Below are more options for your weekend.

A Look Ahead

Check out next month’s events!
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Submit your events for the Weekend Roundup

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Harrisburg to develop five-year capital improvement plan for facilities

February 21, 2024 | by Maddie Gittens

Harrisburg City Council meeting on Tuesday

An upcoming study will evaluate Harrisburg’s facilities, assets and infrastructure, aiming to create a path for improvement.

Harrisburg City Council on Tuesday evening approved a contract with Minneapolis, Minn.-based SitelogIQ to develop a five-year capital improvement plan.

“This is probably the first time that the city has had anything quite this comprehensive,” said Marita Kelley, the city’s finance director. “This is a good serious venture for us. This is real active planning.”

The company, which has a Harrisburg office, will assess the city’s government offices, parks and recreation facilities, public safety buildings, among other assets. They will also look at Harrisburg’s energy—water, fuel and electric—utilization.

SitelogIQ is slated to begin assessment in the coming weeks. They will then use the summer to create a list of prioritized projects, starting with those in most need of rehab, and present a draft improvement plan to the city in September or October, company officials shared.

The company will also assist Harrisburg in seeking grant opportunities to support improvement projects.

SitelogIQ will provide its services at a cost of $40,000 to the city.

According to Kelley, the company will start by evaluating facilities and may later move on to roads and bridges.

Also on Tuesday, council approved appointing James Hobbs to the Zoning Hearing Board. Hobbs, who previously served as an alternate for the board, will take the seat of board member Matthew Pianka, who resigned following his election as magisterial district judge. Hobbs will serve the remainder of Pianka’s term through the end of the year.

Additionally, council approved an agreement with Halcyon Interpreting Services, LLC for sign language interpreting services, at a rate of $55 per hour from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. and $60 per hour from 7 p.m. to 8 a.m. during the week. Halcyon has provided services to council since 2022.

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Dauphin County awards gaming grants to hundreds of local projects

February 21, 2024 | by Maddie Gittens

Dauphin County Commissioners meeting on Wednesday.

Over 200 Harrisburg-area projects will receive funds through an annual grant program.

At a Wednesday meeting, the Dauphin County Commissioners approved the allocation of $8.9 million to local organizations and businesses from its share of gaming grant funds from the Hollywood Casino at Penn National.

The money will go to infrastructure, emergency services, transportation and human services projects, among others.

Harrisburg-based projects that were awarded gaming grant funding include:

Harrisburg City (Rehabilitation of the first floor of the MLK City Government Center) – $206,400.
Harrisburg Redevelopment Authority (Installation of a park at 15th and Swatara Streets (conditioned upon a final MOU with Harrisburg City for maintenance of park) – $72,000.
AJB Drug & Alcohol Mentoring Services (Funding to support the costs for counseling and mentoring programs for un/under-insured City residents) – $3,750.
All You Can, Inc. (Computer equipment for the All You Can House Project for after-school programs, food pantry, rental assistance, family therapy) – $7,500.
BeaHive Affordable Housing Outreach Inc. (Innovative affordable housing project designed to make rent-to-own housing more accessible) – $19,500.
Blessed 2 Give, Inc. (Funding to provide stable and supportive housing to youth who have aged out of the foster care program) – $18,750.
Breaking the Chainz, Inc. (Better Housing for a Better Community Phase II affordable housing safe space for a safer community project) – $18,750.
Cameron Street LP (Adaptive reuse of 38 Cameron Street into 6 affordable housing units and 10,000 sf of commercial space) – $22,500.
Capital Area Greenbelt Association (Fence installation project to prevent illegal dumping on the Cameron Parkway hillside) – $22,500.
Catholic Charities of the Diocese of Harrisburg (Safety & security upgrades and key fobs to St. Samuel Center needed to serve clients) – $57,635.
Center for Employment Opportunities, Inc. (Workforce development project for justice impacted individuals; Conditioned upon sustaining existing Dauphin County program and not to be used for vans) – $75,000.
Christ Lutheran Church & Health Ministries (Repair and replacement of sewer main line at free health clinics) – $22,500.
Christian Recovery Aftercare Ministry, Inc. (CRAM) (Installation of building access security system with cameras) – $18,750.
Civic Club of Harrisburg (ADA improvements at the Overlook and the Women’s History Garden) – $7,241.
Community Check-Up Center of South Harrisburg, Inc. (ADA entry at Harrisburg Housing Authority medical service facility) – $14,400.
Crawdaddys 306 LLC (Servesafe certifications and uniforms for re-entry and under-skilled population in Culinary Training Program) – $7,500.
Dauphin County Library System (McCormick Riverfront Library integration project for ADA accessibility and additional services) – $48,000.
Downtown Daily Bread (Funds for emergency shelter, meals, and human services for the homeless and food insecure) – $75,000.
Driven from Within (Equipment, basketballs and uniforms for youth development and education programs) – $8,884.
Fox’s Wash and Go, LLC (Three stackable dryers for new laundromat along with nine apartments for homeless veteran women/women seeking refuge from domestic violence) – $30,119.
Good Karma Garage (Facility rental costs and purchase of an alignment machine and lift to increase free auto repair services offered; Condition that grant goes to equipment) – $22,679.
Greater Zion Missionary Baptist Church (Funds to complete sidewalk repaving project) – $23,925. 55. H.I.S. Ministry (Funding for youth program – Father Me) – $21,375
Harrisburg Area Food Pantry (Funding for emergency food supplies and personal care items) – $15,000.
Harrisburg Area Police Athletic League (Funds to purchase van to continue building infrastructure to assist HAPAL to bring mentoring services to Dauphin Co.; Condition not to apply for transportation related project for 2 years) – $18,750.
Harristown Development Corporation (Purchase and rehabilitation of 104 and 106 Walnut Street) – $30,000.
Historic Harrisburg Association (New HVAC system for Historic Harrisburg Resource Center) – $18,750.
Historical Society of Dauphin County (Capital project to restore, renovate and repair exterior of John Harris-Simon Cameron Mansion) – $16,706.
Homeland Center (Funds to replace aging telephone system) – $55,000.
Jewish Federation of Greater Harrisburg (Accessible playground project at Alexander Grass Campus) – $37,500.
Joshua Group (Security system and kitchen upgrades at its free youth programming location) – $9,566.
Justice House of Hope, Inc. (Purchase a van to transport human trafficking victims to receive human and social services; Conditioned upon all other project funds being secured and not to apply for transportation related project for 2 years) – $11,250.
Latino Connection Foundation, Inc. (Construction costs and water pressure issues related to the Sycamore housing project) – $37,500.
LGBT Community Center Coalition of Central PA (Renovations to new location at 1323 N. Front St.) – $37,500.
LHACC – Latino Hispanic American Community Center (Building renovation and furniture for bi-lingual workforce development initiative) – $22,500.
MOSELF – Men of the Southeast League Field, Inc. (Restore and upgrade Cloverly Heights Park little league field) – $9,750.
National Civil War Museum (Capital improvements to building and mechanics) – $18,000.
National Coalition of 100 Black Women, Inc. Harrisburg Chapter (Implementation of education, programs and initiatives that affect the Black community) – $11,250.
Open Stage (Backstage hallway and HVAC project) – $17,239.
Pennsylvania STEAM Academy Foundation (Purchase of smartboards) – $3,914.
Salvation Army (Closing the food loop project including warehouse expansion, equipment purchases and HVAC system reconfiguration) – $30,126.
Scholars Inc. d/b/a Thrive Housing Services (Renovation of 603-605 N. 2nd Street for youth emergency shelter and housing program) – $37,500.
Second City Church (Safety & security improvements for historic building) – $12,000.
Sprocket Mural Works Inc. (Funding to decrease blight and increase community pride through art in the Allison Hill neighborhood) – $9,000.
Patrick’s Cathedral (Phase III of the Cathedral Education Center rehabilitation project) – $18,750.
Paul’s Episcopal Church (Installation of security doors and fencing, roof repairs and support of community fair) – $11,250.
Stephen’s Episcopal School (School facility repairs and safety improvements) – $18,150.
Tasty Dishes LLC (Updating kitchen equipment at Broad Street Market) – $7,500.
Tears for Tarina, Inc. (Market Street property renovation project to shelter and serve women fleeing domestic violence) – $11,250.
Tri-County OIC (Training the future of life-sustaining careers in multiple industries for vulnerable population) – $45,000.
Veterans Outreach of Harrisburg (Debt service related to tiny home community for homeless veterans) – $22,500.
Writer’s Wordshop with Nate Gadsden (Youth engagement program funds – anti-crime, healthy self-living, and anti-gang programs) – $11,250.
Zecharya International Inc. d/b/a ModernRugs.com (Midtown Harrisburg Arts Corridor Revitalization Project) – $15,000.

According to county officials, they received more applications for grants this year than ever before, with over 250 requests, a 27% increase from the previous year.

County officials also shared that the grant funding would support projects adding $78.5 million in additional investment in the area. They also estimated that the projects will help create and preserve nearly 3,000 jobs.

“This is the most comprehensive and far-reaching list I have seen,” said Commissioner Mike Pries. “There are a lot of winners today.”

The following is a complete list of the projects that were awarded funds this year:

Host & Contiguous

East Hanover Township (Annual Road maintenance and repair $384,000; Hershey Volunteer Fire Company assistance with downpayment costs for new pumper $240,000) – $624,000.
Derry Township (Hershey Public Library replacement of air conditioning system $96,000 conditioned upon securing the remaining funds for the project; Hershey Volunteer Fire Company debt service for Engine 48-1 and Attack 48 $150,125; Derry Township Community Cats install shed at location to handle overflow of supplies $2,625) – $248,750.
Middle Paxton Township (Debt service payment for DCIB-G Loan on the Potato Valley Road project $38,400; Debt service payment for DCIB Loan on Red Hill Road project $119,040; Rehabilitate local bridge on McKelvey Road $52,220; Dauphin Middle Paxton Joint Park Authority replace deteriorated pool infrastructure and decking; addition of ADA compliant chair lift and new flume slide $90,000) – $299,660.
Rush Township (Pennsylvania State University artists’ fees for live music in lobbies program $7,500) – $7,500.
South Hanover Township (Debt service payment for municipal complex $192,000; Construct new public works facility and purchase pumper/tanker to replace 1992 engine $48,000; Crestview Manor Civic Association connect existing community park building to proposed municipal sewers $11,250) – $251,250.
West Hanover Township (Purchase new NFPA radios for fire company $216,960; 717 Athletics facility improvements, athlete scholarships, emergency preparedness, floor, and equipment $1,500; Tall Cedars of Lebanon, Forest 43 Pole Building for storage of mowers and outdoor equipment $7,500) – $225,960.

Municipal and Municipal Services Awards

Berrysburg Municipal Authority (Debt service on new sewage treatment plant) – $31,285.
Conewago Township (Debt reduction on DCIB loan for Meadow Lane Project) – $150,000.
Court Administration for Magisterial District Judge Offices (Land acquisition, site work, construction costs and debt service related to new MDJ facilities) – $225,000.
Dauphin Borough (Debt reduction on wastewater treatment plant) – $58,788.
Dauphin County Department of Public Safety (Funding for a comprehensive study of site locations, current equipment and to develop a replacement plan for radio communications and radio tower sites) – $73,200.
Dauphin County Economic Development Corporation (Broadband Expansion Project benefiting unserved/underserved residents and businesses) – $173,317.
Dauphin County Economic Development Corporation (Dauphin County Infrastructure Bank – General Program interest rate subsidy) – $307,900. 4
Dauphin County General Authority (Payment of debt service on golf course irrigation system replacement project) – $136,992.
Dauphin County Human Resources (Human Resources files scanning project) – $17,280.
Dauphin County Human Services (Human Services direct and other services integration Project) – $109,848.
Dauphin County Local Emergency Planning Committee (Funds to replace Hazardous Materials Response Team portable radios) – $69,120.
Dauphin County Parks and Recreation (DCIB-G loan repayment for Detweiler Park project) – $96,000.
Dauphin County Redevelopment Authority (Joint effort with Penn State Harrisburg for economic and community development initiatives) – $72,000.
Dauphin County Sheriff’s Office (Annual lease payment for radio replacement project and purchase and upfit a 2024 Ford Interceptor SUV) – $67,200.
Fisherville Volunteer Fire Co. No. 1/Jackson Township (Debt reduction for fire station project) – $37,000.
Gratz Area Fire Co. No. 1 of Gratz, Pennsylvania (Purchase new thermal imaging cameras, fire hose and nozzles) – $36,000.
Halifax Area Recreational Authority (Roadway improvements and access to Veterans Park) – $24,375.
Harrisburg City (Rehabilitation of the first floor of the MLK City Government Center) – $206,400.
Harrisburg Redevelopment Authority (Installation of a park at 15th and Swatara Streets (conditioned upon a final MOU with Harrisburg City for maintenance of park) – $72,000.
Housing Authority of the County of Dauphin (Funding to partner with Center for Employment Opportunities to provide work-force development) – $48,000.
Hummelstown Borough (Debt service for Municipal/Public Safety Building $37,500 and debt service on the Swatara Township Authority Dryer, stormwater projects and Bullfrog Valley stream restoration project $116,117) – $153,617.
Hummelstown Chemical Fire Co. No. 1 (Debt service on 2023 Pierce ladder truck) – $36,000.
Liberty Hose Co. No. 2 (Purchase 30 new Scott air pack cylinders) – $20,880.
Linglestown Fire Co. No. 1 (Debt relief for construction of new regional Forestry Special Services Station) – $54,805.
Londonderry Township (Swatara Creek Road realignment and rehabilitation project) – $120,000.
Lower Paxton Township – Parks and Recreation Department (Funding for Conway Tract improvements / Master Plan $84,000 and Happy Tails Dog Park / Kohl Park $108,000) – $192,000.
Lower Swatara Township (Funding to offset 2015 and 2017 DCIB Loans and DCIB-G loan related to storm water, sanitary sewer and creek restoration projects) – $151,192.
Lower Swatara Vol. Fire Department (Debt relief for 2018 Pierce Pumper/Tanker) – $38,400.
Lykens Borough Authority (Construction of well #3 to service Lykens Borough and Wiconisco Township) – $120,000.
Middletown Area School District (Raiderpacks Food Scarcity Backpack Program) – $50,000.
Middletown Volunteer Fire Department (Debt reduction of 2020 Seagrave Pumper Truck) – $48,000.
Mifflin Township (Full replacement of deteriorated Weaver Road culvert) – $48,000.
Millersburg Area School District (Replacement of old doors and installation of access controls) – $15,312.
Millersburg Borough (Funds to install ADA ramps along Market Street to increase walkability) – $96,000.
Millersburg Fire Co. No. 1 (Update and replace portable radio system) – $109,175.
Penbrook Borough (Asylum Run debt Reduction) – $96,000.
Pillow Borough Authority (Rehabilitate treated water storage tank) – $38,400.
Pillow Fire Company No. 1 (Debt reduction related to refurbishment of 2000 HME) – $48,000.
Reed Township (Debt reduction for new municipal building to replace deteriorated office trailer) – $54,597.
Reliance Hose Co. No.1 Elizabethville, PA (Install emergency vehicle exhaust extinction system) – $33,600.
Royalton Borough (Purchase compact wheel loader with attachments for maintenance $60,000 and Borough Hall Phase II Roof Repair Project $60,000) – $120,000.
Steelton Highspire School District (Funding to enhance sports facilities and complete fencing around the War Memorial Veterans field) – $48,000.
Steelton Vol. Fire Dept. (Purchase Rapid Intervention Team (RIT) equipment and two sets of firefighting gear) – $18,300.
Susquehanna Township (Funding to begin development of Wedgewood Hills Park $38,400, funds to install sidewalks in front of the municipal building at 1900 Linglestown Road $48,000 and funding to complete the design of the new public safety building for Progress Fire Station (No. 32) $96,000) – $182,400.
Susquehanna Township School District (Funding to install 70 new security cameras on the school campuses in the Township) – $57,600.
Swatara Township (Bishop Park Phase I – School age play equipment for new children’s playground construction) – $158,400.
Tri-County Regional Planning Commission (Water Resources Enhancement Program and proposed Flood Resilience Stormwater Model) – $33,600.
Upper Paxton Township (Demolition and replacement of existing salt shed that supplies multiple municipalities) – $144,000.
Washington Township (Debt relief for roof replacement costs and engineering costs for municipal building expansion) – $96,000.
Wiconisco Fire Engine Co. of Wiconisco, PA (Debt reduction for RescueEngine purchased in 2018) – $38,400.
Wiconisco Township (Wastewater treatment system improvements – Pump Station No. 2 upgrade) – $76,800.
Williams Township (Street asphalt resurfacing project for safe and passable roadways) – $59,136.

Other Awards

6870 Derry St LLC d/b/a The Wharf (Reconfigure new kitchen and purchase upgraded kitchen equipment) – $17,430.
ABCJ LLC t/a Café Fresco (Restaurant business relocation project) – $11,250.
Actions of Change Foundation, Inc. (Purchase barbering supplies and equipment, personal hygiene items, food and clothing for mobile barber shop and youth activities) – $3,750.
Active Learning Center in Hershey, LLC (Funding to secure school supplies and equipment necessary to improve and enhance learning) – $11,250.
African Chamber of Commerce of Pennsylvania (Contract with local paralegal to assist residents to obtain citizenship) – $33,000.
AJB Drug & Alcohol Mentoring Services (Funding to support the costs for counseling and mentoring programs for un/under-insured City residents) – $3,750.
All You Can, Inc. (Computer equipment for the All You Can House Project for after-school programs, food pantry, rental assistance, family therapy) – $7,500.
American Designed Technology Management, LLC (Software for the professional/ management training facility) – $9,000.
Apex Healthcare Services, LLC (Purchase two used minivans to transport employees providing home care to residents; Condition not to apply for transportation related items for 2 years) – $22,500.
Asian Refugees United (Improve and expand youth programs at the Asian Refugees United Youth Center) – $15,000.
BeaHive Affordable Housing Outreach Inc. (Innovative affordable housing project designed to make rent-to-own housing more accessible) – $19,500.
Berrysburg Borough and Mifflin Township Recreation Assoc. (Playground enhancement and improvement project) – $11,250.
Blessed 2 Give, Inc. (Funding to provide stable and supportive housing to youth who have aged out of the foster care program) – $18,750.
Breaking the Chainz, Inc. (Better Housing for a Better Community Phase II affordable housing safe space for a safer community project) – $18,750.
Bridge of Hope Harrisburg Area (Transportation project assisting single homeless mothers with vehicle purchases and repairs) – $18,750.
Cameron Street LP (Adaptive reuse of 38 Cameron Street into 6 affordable housing units and 10,000 sf of commercial space) – $22,500.
Camp Hebron, Inc. (Capital Campaign Project – sewer/water connection and replacement of lower loop cabins) – $11,250.
Campbell Associates (Funds to build final 2 – 3 cottages on N. 2nd St. in Lykens) – $22,500.
Capital Area Greenbelt Association (Fence installation project to prevent illegal dumping on the Cameron Parkway hillside) – $22,500.
Capital Area Therapeutic Riding Association (Purchase a new Gator crossover utility vehicle and Mini-Excavator 26G Compact at therapeutic farm) – $30,000.
Capital Region Literacy Council (Acquire books to benefit students by enhancing literacy health) – $7,500.
Catholic Charities of the Diocese of Harrisburg (Safety & security upgrades and key fobs to St. Samuel Center needed to serve clients) – $57,635.
Center for Employment Opportunities, Inc. (Workforce development project for justice impacted individuals; Conditioned upon sustaining existing Dauphin County program and not to be used for vans) – $75,000.
Chop Chop 1, LLC (Funds for construction/renovation to open Playa Bowls franchise) – $18,750.
Christ Lutheran Church & Health Ministries (Repair and replacement of sewer main line at free health clinics) – $22,500.
Christian Recovery Aftercare Ministry, Inc. (CRAM) (Installation of building access security system with cameras) – $18,750.
Civic Club of Harrisburg (ADA improvements at the Overlook and the Women’s History Garden) – $7,241.
Cocoa Packs, Inc (Purchase non-perishable foods for weekly packs) – $75,000.
Community Check-Up Center of South Harrisburg, Inc. (ADA entry at Harrisburg Housing Authority medical service facility) – $14,400.
Courtyard of Honor, Inc. (Memorial gardens at Hershey square to honor veterans, gold star members and emergency responders who died in the line of duty) – $22,500.
Crawdaddys 306 LLC (Servesafe certifications and uniforms for re-entry and under-skilled population in Culinary Training Program) – $7,500.
Crime Stoppers of Dauphin County, Inc. (Funding for awareness efforts and to provide safety and security to residents) – $11,250.
Cross Point United Methodist Church (Upgrades to Church, early learning center and preschool facilities and programming and materials) – $8,593.
Dauphin County Bar Foundation (Funding to retain dedicated family law attorney serving Dauphin County clients in custody matters; Condition not to apply for 5 years) – $30,000.
Dauphin County Court Appointed Special Advocates (Funding to support the purchase of office supplies, equipment, furniture, and outreach materials) – $24,000.
Dauphin County Critical Incident Stress Management Team (Training for current and new members that support County first responders) – $11,136.
Dauphin County Library System (McCormick Riverfront Library integration project for ADA accessibility and additional services) – $48,000.
Daza Development (Provide funding for 12 months of administration, management, planning and financial development to 15 non-profit organizations) – $3,750.
Diverse Investment Group LLC (Year 2 – Shipping Container affordable housing) – $15,000.
Downtown Daily Bread (Funds for emergency shelter, meals, and human services for the homeless and food insecure) – $75,000.
Driven from Within (Equipment, basketballs and uniforms for youth development and education programs) – $8,884.
Easyudo Services, LLC (Purchase two vehicles with 5-8 seats to transport individuals with special needs to appointments; Condition that it cannot apply for transportation related items for 2 years) – $18,750.
Elizabethville American Legion Post 404 (Construction of ADA ramp at Legion facility) – $7,031. 44. Enders Landscaping, LLC (Purchase equipment to expand business, increase efficiency and provide higher quality jobs) – $5,625.
Evolve Youth Trades Academy (Funds to purchase a van and equipment for the youth trades academy and curriculum; Condition not to apply for transportation related project for 2 years) – $31,875.
Family Circle Ministries (Funding for roof work to provide housing and mentoring to those in need) – $13,744.
Foundation for Central Dauphin Schools d/b/a Panther Ram Foundation (Food purchase for NutriPacks Program) – $50,000.
Fox’s Wash and Go, LLC (Three stackable dryers for new laundromat along with nine apartments for homeless veteran women/women seeking refuge from domestic violence) – $30,119.
Friends of Midland Cemetery (Preservation of headstones and tree removal at historic cemetery) – $13,894.
Full Circle Music, Inc. (Funds for construction and equipment costs for recording music, etc. at rental hall) – $11,250.
Goldfinger Child Care and Learning Centers LLC (Purchase 2 mini-school buses to provide before/after school transportation; Conditioned on purchasing bus in year one and cannot apply for 2 years for transportation related items) – $18,750.
Good Karma Garage (Facility rental costs and purchase of an alignment machine and lift to increase free auto repair services offered; Condition that grant goes to equipment) – $22,679.
Graceful Acres, Inc. (Funds to reduce debt related to cost of building materials for new facility) – $11,250.
Greater Zion Missionary Baptist Church (Funds to complete sidewalk repaving project) – $23,925. 55. H.I.S. Ministry (Funding for youth program – Father Me) – $21,375
Hamilton Health Center (Purchase medical equipment, furniture, and fixtures for new medical facility in Steelton) – $31,335.
HANNA’s Pantry Inc. (Food purchases for food insecurity program and loading dock repairs) – $45,000.
Harrisburg Area Food Pantry (Funding for emergency food supplies and personal care items) – $15,000.
Harrisburg Area Police Athletic League (Funds to purchase van to continue building infrastructure to assist HAPAL to bring mentoring services to Dauphin Co.; Condition not to apply for transportation related project for 2 years) – $18,750.
Harrisburg Area Young Men’s Christian Association d/b/a Harrisburg Area YMCA – Friendship Branch (Upgrade and improve building security at Friendship Branch) – $11,250.
Harrisburg Area Young Men’s Christian Association d/b/a Harrisburg Area YMCA – Northern Dauphin Co. Branch (Upgrade and improve back half of parking lot) – $9,750.
Harrisburg Region Central Labor Council (Building infrastructure improvements for safety of volunteers and clients) – $55,000.
Harristown Development Corporation (Purchase and rehabilitation of 104 and 106 Walnut Street) – $30,000.
Hershey Partnership (Website improvements to further unite the community of Derry Twp. as a central source for events, business listings, tourism, and member connections) – $8,175.
Hidden Still, Inc. (Construction of multi-use space in trolley car barn) – $25,000.
Historic Harrisburg Association (New HVAC system for Historic Harrisburg Resource Center) – $18,750.
Historical Society of Dauphin County (Capital project to restore, renovate and repair exterior of John Harris-Simon Cameron Mansion) – $16,706.
Historical Society of Millersburg and Upper Paxton Twp. (Phase II – digitizing local news from the Upper Dauphin Sentinel and 2,000 historical photos) – $3,750.
Homeland Center (Funds to replace aging telephone system) – $55,000.
Hospice of Central Pennsylvania (Renovate family bathroom at headquarters) – $11,250.
Hummelstown American Legion 265 (Handicap ramp improvements at Legion facility) – $2,925.
J&K Investment Holdings LLC (Construct 4 townhouse units on blighted property) – $11,250.
Jewish Federation of Greater Harrisburg (Accessible playground project at Alexander Grass Campus) – $37,500.
Joshua Group (Security system and kitchen upgrades at its free youth programming location) – $9,566.
Justice House of Hope, Inc. (Purchase a van to transport human trafficking victims to receive human and social services; Conditioned upon all other project funds being secured and not to apply for transportation related project for 2 years) – $11,250.
Keon Enterprises, LLC (Purchase a handicap accessible van to provide services to seniors and disabled persons; Condition not to apply for transportation related items for 2 years) – $37,500.
Keystone Human Services (Renovate and expand classroom space at New Love in Christ Church for Capital Area Head Start) – $37,500.
Kiddie Academy, Inc. d/b/a Kiddie Academy of Harrisburg PA (Install playground equipment and purchase new projector, smartboards, computers, and sanitizer) – $15,225.
Kidney Foundation of Central Pennsylvania (Enhance and expand mobile application so users can complete classes virtually and to report their day-to-day responses to treatment) – $9,000.
Koon’s Memorial Park Swim Club (Relocate and replace diving board) – $11,250.
Latino Connection Foundation, Inc. (Construction costs and water pressure issues related to the Sycamore housing project) – $37,500.
LGBT Community Center Coalition of Central PA (Renovations to new location at 1323 N. Front St.) – $37,500.
LHACC – Latino Hispanic American Community Center (Building renovation and furniture for bi-lingual workforce development initiative) – $22,500.
Linglestown Baseball Association (Construction of baseball dugouts at Koons Park) – $18,750.
Lions Club of Lower Swatara (Upgrades to building) – $12,161.
Manada Golf Club, Inc. (Demolition and reconstruction of golf course water storage dam) – $50,000. 87. Mary’s Health and Fitness, LLC (Strength and conditioning room equipment purchase) – $18,750. 88. Metro’s of Tomorrow Youth Barber Academy Inc. (Renovations of Barber School that provides mentoring, training and other youth programs; Conditioned upon securing a location and that grant cannot be used for rent) – $11,250.
Middletown Swim Club (Debt reduction on pool repairs) – $10,000.
Midwest Food Bank (Implementation of food inventory control system with hardware and software) – $6,660.
Millersburg American Legion Post 326 (Facility roof repairs, installation of updated floors and ADA bathroom improvements) – $21,000.
Millersburg Little League Association (Installation of new LED lighting on baseball field) – $17,250.
MOSELF – Men of the Southeast League Field, Inc. (Restore and upgrade Cloverly Heights Park little league field) – $9,750.
Mountain be Removed Outreach Center (Funding for Penbrook seniors food boxes program) – $13,500.
Mountain View Counseling & Wellness Center, LLC (Expand current location) – $15,450.
Movers for Me PA LLC d/b/a Movers for Me (Enhancement of transportation services and amplification of storage facilities) – $7,500.
National Civil War Museum (Capital improvements to building and mechanics) – $18,000.
National Coalition of 100 Black Women, Inc. Harrisburg Chapter (Implementation of education, programs and initiatives that affect the Black community) – $11,250.
Ned Smith Center for Nature and Art (Funds to install a chair lift in the amphitheater) – $22,500. 100. Neighboring Group LLC (Convert steel shipping containers into modular makerspaces for Steel High students to receive specialized instruction) – $18,750.
Open Stage (Backstage hallway and HVAC project) – $17,239.
Partnership for Hope (Purchase a used box truck to deliver food to families in need) – $11,250.
Pennsylvania STEAM Academy Foundation (Purchase of smartboards) – $3,914.
Peyton Walker Foundation (The 4-Minute City Project to provide AEDs and reduce response time) – $22,500.
Pop’s House (Debt service related to acquisition of veterans’ home) – $9,000.
Premier Health and Human Services, LLC (Purchase three vans and additional equipment to service program participants’ transportation needs; Condition that it cannot apply for transportation related items for 2 years) – $11,250.
Rapid Car Rental LLC (Purchase additional vehicles to provide reliable transportation for low income/minority residents; Condition that it cannot apply for transportation related items for 2 years) – $11,250.
Roots Logistics, LLC (Purchase tractor trailer for a CDL training program for Steelton veterans and returning citizens) – $11,250.
Salvation Army (Closing the food loop project including warehouse expansion, equipment purchases and HVAC system reconfiguration) – $30,126.
Scholars Inc. d/b/a Thrive Housing Services (Renovation of 603-605 N. 2nd Street for youth emergency shelter and housing program) – $37,500.
Second City Church (Safety & security improvements for historic building) – $12,000.
Social Enterprise Institute (Introduce software tool into the business strategies of three nonprofit organizations) – $11,250.
Sprocket Mural Works Inc. (Funding to decrease blight and increase community pride through art in the Allison Hill neighborhood) – $9,000.
Catherine Laboure Athletic Association (Replace bleachers and wall padding in gymnasium/community center space) – $11,250.
Patrick’s Cathedral (Phase III of the Cathedral Education Center rehabilitation project) – $18,750.
Paul’s Episcopal Church (Installation of security doors and fencing, roof repairs and support of community fair) – $11,250.
Stephen’s Episcopal School (School facility repairs and safety improvements) – $18,150.
Steelton Community Development Foundation (Capital improvements to revitalize Borough’s boat dock area) – $56,250.
Susquehanna Area Mountain Bike Assoc. (SAMBA) (Purchase two electric mountain bikes and a utility trailer for building and maintaining trails) – $3,750.
Susquehanna Area Regional Airport Authority (Purchase 3,000-gallon Aircraft Rescue and Firefighting Vehicle) – $55,680.
Swatara Township Karate Academy Inc. (Purchase students gear, office supplies, advertising, and support for events) – $3,750.
Sylvia Group, LLC (Affordable housing renovation project and equipment needs to advance the cleaning & lawn care components of the company) – $22,500.
Tall Cedars of Lebanon Millersburg Forest. (ADA sidewalk improvements and select roof replacements project) – $7,500.
Tasty Dishes LLC (Updating kitchen equipment at Broad Street Market) – $7,500.
Tears for Tarina, Inc. (Market Street property renovation project to shelter and serve women fleeing domestic violence) – $11,250.
Technology 4 Me (Funds for the Bridge the Digital Divide program – providing training and resources to the elders, students, and veterans of Dauphin Co.) – $12,600.
Tribe on a Quest Inc. (Purchase 15 seat passenger vans to provide transportation to employment opportunities; Condition that it cannot apply for transportation related items for 2 years) – $18,750.
Tri-County OIC (Training the future of life-sustaining careers in multiple industries for vulnerable population) – $45,000.
Trinity Preschool (Purchase a multi-passenger van to transport children and their families; Condition that it cannot apply for transportation related items for 2 years) – $15,000.
United Way of the Capital Region (Contact to Care educational videos that help low-income families gain access to health insurance and expansion of initiative) – $22,500.
Upper Dauphin Council of Governments (EMS Study to aid municipal members in securing public safety services) – $51,000.
Veterans Outreach of Harrisburg (Debt service related to tiny home community for homeless veterans) – $22,500.
Vineyard at Hershey, LLC (New patio bar, bathrooms, and stage project) – $18,750.
Vista School (Replace smoke detector and fire alarm system) – $15,000.
Wesley Union Church (Outreach Services Funds for the costs of building upkeep, accessible entrance and restrooms for emergency shelter, meals & human services) – $15,000.
Williamstown American Legion Post 239 (Facility improvements) – $15,000.
Williamstown PA Historical Society (Facility improvements and traffic control measures) – $7,128. 138. Wisa Enterprises, LLC (Purchase three vans to provide transportation and home care services to seniors and disabled persons; Condition that it cannot apply for transportation related items for 2 years) – $26,250.
Writer’s Wordshop with Nate Gadsden (Youth engagement program funds – anti-crime, healthy self-living, and anti-gang programs) – $11,250.
YWCA of Greater Harrisburg (Renovate/rehabilitate John Crain Kunkle Building headquarters) – $37,500
Zecharya International Inc. d/b/a ModernRugs.com (Midtown Harrisburg Arts Corridor Revitalization Project) – $15,000.
Zeta Theta Lambda Foundation (Retrofit space at headquarters into a space for academic tutoring, mentoring & community awareness) – $12,000.
Dauphin County Redevelopment Authority (Administration) – $100,000.
Dauphin County Land Bank Authority (Administration) – $94,873. M. Unrestricted Local Share Grant to the Dauphin County Industrial Development Authority

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Ward of Health cuts the ribbon on downtown shop, offers plant-based menu

February 20, 2024 | by Maddie Gittens

(From left) Jason Graves, Harrisburg’s economic development director, Craig Ward, owner of Ward of Health and Brad Jones, CEO of Harristown Enterprises, cut the ribbon on the new restaurant.

Downtown Harrisburg just got a little greener.

On Tuesday, Ward of Health, a former Broad Street Market vendor, cut the ribbon on its plant-based café on N. 2^nd Street.

“Our plans are to continue our mission of providing plant-based food for the Harrisburg,” said owner Craig Ward. “We are here to continue to show people that you can have good food and be healthy.”

Ward, who is vegan himself, has been serving plant-based meals to the city, previously at his market stand, which recently closed, and now at his first brick-and-mortar shop located in the Bogg on Cranberry building.

He described the food as “transitional,” dishes that are familiar to people, but with a vegan twist. He hopes that getting people comfortable with plant-based food will encourage them to make it a lifestyle choice, he said.

Menu offerings include street tacos, crunch wraps and nachos, each of which includes original, Save a Crab and Grilled “Chicken” options. In place of meat, Ward typically uses mushrooms and walnuts. There is also a taco salad and chips and salsa, with a cinnamon roll option for dessert. Drinks include pineapple and strawberry aqua frescas.

Ward of Health currently offers takeout-only service from its window at 221 N. 2^nd St.

“Many people have said that restaurant row has gone through a different evolution here after the pandemic,” said Brad Jones, CEO of Harristown Enterprises, the owner of the building. “Craig is here to show everybody that we are coming back strong and healthy.”

Ward of Health also plans to provide food for Honeybush Smoothie Bar, another former market vendor that is slated to open a restaurant at 23 S. 3^rd St., downtown.

“There aren’t a lot of options in Harrisburg so we will continue to try to be those options,” Ward said. “We have good vegan food in Harrisburg.”

For more information, visit Ward of Health on Facebook.

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The Week that Was: News and features around Harrisburg

February 16, 2024 | by Lawrance Binda and Maddie Gittens

Owner Lucila Khan recently opened Wildflower Coffee

It seems like Harrisburg may be in for some more snow this weekend. Whether you love it or hate it, the weather does make a great excuse to stay home at catch up on your Burg reading. You can start below.

Apartment project proposals received approval from the Harrisburg Planning Commission recently, our online story reported. A 144-unit building at 320 Reily St. received preliminary approval for zoning relief, and the board also voted in favor of a land development plan for a 36-unit senior housing building in Midtown.

Democrats in Harrisburg will have an array of choices in the upcoming primary election. In our online story, see who will officially be on the ballot for Congress and the state legislature.

Diverse literature is something local educator Corey Dupree believes all children should have access to, our magazine story reported. In March, he will host his Little Layers of Black History Gala to raise funds for diverse books for schools.

Home prices in the Harrisburg area dipped in January, while prices were higher, our online story reported. For the three-county area, sales totaled 358 houses versus 389 in January 2023, as the median sales price rose to $258,000 from $245,000.

Pennsylvania Furniture Mission helps people make a house a home. The organization, which serves six counties, provides furniture to those in need, our magazine story reported.

Pirates, puppets and rock and roll will come to Harrisburg for a one-of-a-kind musical in April, our online story reported. The show, “Plunder and Lightning: A Pirate’s Life – The Musical,” is interactive, humorous and fun for all, cast members shared.

Rosemary has the perfect soup to warm you up in the winter. Click here to find her minestrone soup recipe.

Sankofa African American Theatre Company’s original play, “The Jackson Rooming House: Music’s Resting Place” is currently showing at Gamut Theatre. In our magazine story, get a glimpse into the plot, which features the journeys of trailblazing Black artists.

Sara Bozich’s Weekend Roundup is packed with great ways to spend your weekend in the Harrisburg area.

“Sweeney Todd” will bring musical horror to Open Stage this month, opening on Feb. 24. In our magazine story, read a preview of the gruesome, murder-and-revenge-filled show.

Wildflower Coffee opened inside the McCormick Riverfront Library in Harrisburg, our online story reported. The shop offers hot and iced coffee options, as well as a tea selection.

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Ahoy Harrisburg: Local group’s musical brings pirates, puppets, rock and roll to the stage

February 16, 2024 | by Maddie Gittens

Cast of “Plunder & Lightning: A Pirate’s Life–The Musical”

Coming to Harrisburg next month is a show that producer Jay Bowser can only describe as “guaranteed crazy time.”

“Plunder and Lightning: A Pirate’s Life – The Musical” will combine rock and roll, pirates, theater and puppets for a one-of-a-kind experience at Harrisburg’s Federal Taphouse in April.

“I wanted to put out something new and fresh,” Bowser said. “We are throwing caution to the wind. It’s a blend of two worlds that I don’t think you’ve ever seen before.”

The show will mix musical theater with rock and feature a live band performing original songs inspired by doo-wop, heartfelt ballads and, fittingly, sea shanties.

Several years ago, Bowser, with a background in writing music and playing in bands, set out to create a concept album around the story of a pirate. He identified with the individuality and rebellious nature of pirates. For a while, he performed the songs at local restaurants and venues and audiences loved it, he said.

“It turns out, everybody wants to be a pirate. That’s what I found out really quickly,” he said.

While Bowser always considered himself more of a “hardcore” rock music guy, his daughter introduced him to musical theater, and he was intrigued by the storytelling power the art has.

The show has since evolved to include 20 musicians and performers, some of whom have relocated to Harrisburg because of the production. Bowser worked with co-writer Jamie Kramer to write a script that was personal, but would also relate to viewers, even if it took several re-writes to get it perfect.

And then there are the puppets.

Currently, Monday nights are “puppet days,” where the group works to develop and create their own characters like a pair of rats, a parrot, a skeleton and a pirate. Bowser said that he often finds himself thinking, “What would Jim Henson do?”

But don’t be confused; this isn’t a kids’ show. Bowser rated the show PG-13 for adult humor.

There will be a good amount of audience participation, as well, he said, and there may even be times when people are encouraged to throw things at the cast.

“Plunder & Lightning” is meant to be a good time, a time to leave your worries at the door, and that, he said, is something people need right now.

“We are putting on a party,” he said.

The show will take place on April 13, 20, 26 and 27 in the second-floor performance space of the Federal Taphouse.

After April’s shows, the future of “Plunder & Lightning” is uncertain, but Bowser has a good feeling about it.

“I have a hunch that this will catch on,” he said. “I haven’t seen anything like this before.”

To learn more about “Plunder & Lightning” or to purchase tickets, visit their website.

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Two Midtown apartment projects receive Harrisburg Planning Commission approval

February 15, 2024 | by Maddie Gittens

The proposed site of the project at 320 Reily St.

A proposal to construct a large apartment building in Midtown Harrisburg has taken a step forward again, over two years since it was first proposed.

At a meeting last week, the Harrisburg Planning Commission voted in favor of zoning variance and special exception relief for a proposed 144-unit building at 320 Reily St., moving the project forward for further approvals.

The proposal received variance and special exception approval from the Zoning Hearing Board in October 2021, but the developer, Harrisburg-based GreenWorks Development, never subsequently filed a land development plan so the relief was revoked, according to Geoffrey Knight, the city’s planning director. Therefore, GreenWorks was required to start the approval process again.

The plan also has changed slightly, knocking the number of units down to 144 from 155 and reducing first-floor commercial space from 3,000 square feet to 2,590 square feet. Additionally, GreenWorks originally proposed only 86 off-street parking spaces, but now plans to include 160, using space at 1511 N. 3rd St. and 1530 N. 4th St. The developer is requesting parking relief, as city code requires 191 spaces for a project of this scope.

The proposed project site is currently a surface parking lot.

The project will need zoning relief approval from the zoning board and eventual project approval from City Council.

Additionally, the planning board heard a proposal for a four-story, 36-unit senior apartment building on land bounded by N. 4^th, Clinton, Logan and Harris streets.

The board voted in favor of the land development plan, the consolidation of 19 lots on the project site and the vacation of several grocer’s alleys at the property.

The project, proposed by developer Midtown Redevelopment LLC, would also include two first-floor commercial units, 30 first-floor interior parking spaces and 12 outdoor, on-site parking spots.

Developers will need approval from the zoning board and council, as well.

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Weekend Roundup with Sara Bozich

February 15, 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: This Women’s Whiskey Tasting at Midstate Distillery sounds fun. Worth noting: SoMa Pop-Ups (featuring cake & wine); 3rd in the Burg! Things on my agenda this weekend: See above, plus I •finally• get my hair done.

For your weekend planning

TONIGHT! Valentine’s Day Pop-Up in SoMa on Feb. 15 (wine & mini cake pairing!)
FRIDAY! Galentine’s Day Pop-Up in SoMa for 3rd in the Burg – Feb. 16 (wine, seafood, live music!)
13 Valentine Ideas for anyone (still a few to check out)
Discover SCG Spa in Carlisle
See what else you missed on the blog

Below are more options for your weekend.

A Look Ahead

WIN tickets to see great live jazz in Harrisburg!
You can now sponsor the Weekend Roundup! Ask me how!
Submit your events for the Weekend Roundup

Thursday

- Valentine’s Pop-up in SoMa!
- Live @ the ‘Shire w/ Holly Serio at Boneshire Brew Works
- Espresso Martini Battle at The Sturges Speakeasy
- Galentine’s Dance Fitness at H2L Studio
- WAKE UP AMERICA: AN EVENING WITH DR. KEISHA BLAIN, RUTH RICHARDSON AND TAIFA SMITH BUTLER at Midtown Scholar Bookstore
- Agatha Christie’s The Mousetrap at Dutch Apple Dinner Theatre
- NARÇISSE THEATRE COMPANY Presents “AMERICAN SON” by Christopher Demos-Brown, Sponsored by YPOC of Greater Harrisburg
- Blacklisted poets of Harrisburg 8-10pm no cover at HMAC

Friday

- 3rd in the Burg
- Galentine’s Day Pop-up in SoMa | 3rd in the Burg
- 3rd in the Burg: Millworks Social Event with HYP
- Cruel Intentions | 3rd in the Burg Movie Night at Midtown Cinema
- 3rd in the Burg Pelvic Floor Yoga at C.R. Blooms
- The Night Market at La Cultura
- 3rd in the Burg at Susquehanna Art Museum
- 3rd in the Burg: Name That Tune Musical Trivia at The Brownstone Lounge
- An Evening with Allan Guelzo and Scott LaMar: Our Ancient Faith at Midtown Scholar Bookstore
- 3rd in the Burg Art Show + Book Release with Stephen Michael Haas at The Rummagers
- 3rd in the Burg Jazz Night at Nyeusi Gallery
- Galentine’s Bestie Bracelet Making with Flores and Co at The Meadow
- Fireside Live Music Series | Featuring Nathan Merovich at Roundtop Mountain Resort
- Ten02 with special guest Moonroof at The Englewood
- D-Bo!’s Lovers’ Ball at Hollywood Casino
- Wes Hoke and the Bare Roots Band – Blue Sky Tavern
- Mardi Gras Celebration! at SpringGate Vineyard
- Papadosio & Tauk @ XL Live
- Stupid Cupid Party at Nocturnal
- The Maxwell Project Returns to the West Shore Theatre
- The Jackson Rooming House: Music’s Resting Place at Gamut Theatre Group
- NARÇISSE THEATRE COMPANY Presents “AMERICAN SON” by Christopher Demos-Brown, Sponsored by YPOC of Greater Harrisburg
- Agatha Christie’s The Mousetrap at Dutch Apple Dinner Theatre
- Murder at Mount Hope Mansion
- Latin Fuzion Fridayz at Level 2

Saturday

- Wildflower Coffee Grand Opening at McCormick Riverfront Library
- Community Free Day at the National Civil War Museum
- Motorama at the Pa. Farm Show Complex
- Wine and Chocolate Pairing at CrossWinds Winery
- Soul Miners Union with special guest Cumberland Honey at The Englewood
- Wine & Tapas at Home 231
- Mardi Gras Celebration! at SpringGate Vineyard
- Megan and Dave at SpringGate Vineyard HaHa Patio
- Women’s Whiskey Tasting at Midstate Distillery
- Tommy Conwell & The Young Rumblers wsg Shea and Swish at XL Live
- Black History Month Cinema Celebration at Whitaker Center
- Nicks In Time: Stevie Nicks Tribute at the West Shore Theatre
- Hershey Symphony Orchestra presents The Music of Billy Joel, Starring Michael Cavanaugh at Founders Hall
- Red Party at Nocturnal
- Jo Dee Messina: The “Heads Carolina, Tails California” Tour at American Music Theatre
- Ciroc Saturdays at Level 2
- Brewery Tours: Lancaster City Walk-a-Bout!
- Brewery Tours: York City Walking Tour
- Brewery Tours: Cruise York County
- Brewery Tours: Lancaster City Walking Tour
- The Jackson Rooming House: Music’s Resting Place at Gamut Theatre Group
- NARÇISSE THEATRE COMPANY Presents “AMERICAN SON” by Christopher Demos-Brown, Sponsored by YPOC of Greater Harrisburg
- Agatha Christie’s The Mousetrap at Dutch Apple Dinner Theatre
- Murder at Mount Hope Mansion

Sunday

- The Harrisburg Record Riot! at Lovedraft’s Brewing Co.
- HYP Book Club: “How Long ‘til Black Future Month?”
- The Robert Cray Band – 50th Anniversary Tour at Whitaker Center
- Motorama at the Pa. Farm Show Complex
- The Singer’s Lounge Presents: The Session
- HARD’s Battle of the Rookies and Over the Hell Mixer
- Wine and Chocolate Pairing at CrossWinds Winery
- Mardi Gras Celebration! at SpringGate Vineyard
- Deep Listening: The Story of Pauline Oliveros -Documentary Screening at Midtown Cinema
- Breakfast at Tiffany’s at the West Shore Theatre
- ’50s Dance Party: The Music of Buddy Holly, The Big Bopper, and Ritchie Valens at American Music Theatre
- The Jackson Rooming House: Music’s Resting Place at Gamut Theatre Group
- NARÇISSE THEATRE COMPANY Presents “AMERICAN SON” by Christopher Demos-Brown, Sponsored by YPOC of Greater Harrisburg
- Murder at Mount Hope Mansion
- Queens Who Brunch at HMAC

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Harrisburg-area Democrats face crowded field for Congress, state legislature as petition deadline passes

February 13, 2024 | by Lawrance Binda

Vote signs in front of the state Capitol in Harrisburg (file photo)

Democratic voters in the Harrisburg area will have an array of choices for the upcoming primary election, as the nominating petition deadline passed on Tuesday.

As of the 5 p.m. deadline, the PA Department of State listed numerous Democratic candidates for Congress and the state legislature. Republican voters will have a more limited choice.

Democrats for the 10^th congressional district:

John Broadhurst (Fairview Township)
Rick Coplen (Dickinson Township)
Shamaine Daniels (Harrisburg)
Blake Lynch (Lower Paxton Township)
Mike O’Brien (Susquehanna Township)
Janelle Stelson (Manheim Township)

The primary winner will compete in November’s general election against long-time incumbent Rep. Scott Perry, who was the only Republican to submit nominating petitions by the deadline.

Democrats for the 15^th state senatorial district:

Patty Kim (Harrisburg)
Alvin Q. Taylor (Lower Paxton Township)

Republicans for the 15^th state senatorial district:

Nick DiFrancesco ((Lower Swatara Township)
Ken Stambaugh (Lower Paxton Township)

Democrats for the 103^rd state legislative district:

Nate Davidson (Harrisburg)
Mercedes Evans (Camp Hill)
Laura Harding (Harrisburg)
Jesse Monoski (Lemoyne)
Tina Nixon (Harrisburg)

Republicans for the 103^rd legislative district:

Cindi Ward (East Pennsboro Township)

Two other Harrisburg-area state House seats will be unopposed, according to state department data. In the 104^th legislative district, first-term incumbent Democrat Dave Madsen faces no opposition, nor does first-term incumbent Democrat Justin Fleming in the 105^th legislative district.

For the 106^th legislative district, Democrat Anju Singh of South Hanover Township will run unopposed in the primary. On the Republican side, incumbent Tom Mehaffie will face a challenger, Bobby Jeffries of Derry Township.

This list of candidate slates should not be considered final, as petitions can be challenged until Feb. 20, and candidates can withdraw from the race until Feb. 28. The primary election is slated for April 23.

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

A Tough Battle: The costly, often-deadly truth about eating disorders

February 13, 2024 | by THINK Capital Blue Cross

Low section of woman checking her weight on the scale at home

Jane is a highly respected professional in her 30s. She’s smart, successful, and driven.

She also deprives herself of food for days at a time. Twice a week or so when Jane gets home from work, she binge-eats uncooked, frozen TV dinners.

Jane layers her clothing, both to keep warm and to hide her troublesome thinness. She avoids any work or social gatherings involving food.

It’s all part of Jane’s anorexia, an eating disorder she’s strived to keep secret since she was 14.

“When she first came to me, she was desperate and distraught,” said Suzanne I. Eyer, a Chambersburg-based licensed professional counselor specializing in eating disorders. “Most of the first session was crying. She knew full well she had a problem, but she had no idea how to begin controlling it.”

When Jane began visiting Eyer in 2017, she carried a cocktail of common factors that lead to eating disorders: self-loathing; a distorted self-image, stemming in part from sexual and physical childhood abuse; a Type A – or perfectionist – personality; and an impossible-to-please mother.

“In fact, she initially started dieting to receive positive messages from her mother,” Eyer said.

‘Highest Mortality Rate’

The final week of February is National Eating Disorders Awareness Week, a time to cast a spotlight on these serious psychological illnesses. Anorexia, specifically, is the deadliest mental health disease in America, according to the National Association of Anorexia Nervosa and Associated Disorders (ANAD) .

While 15% of U.S. women will have an eating disorder by their 40s or 50s, only about one-fourth of those women will receive treatment.

“That’s a big reason they have the highest mortality rate,” Eyer said. “For so many, an eating disorder is a dirty little secret they want covered up, even in death.”

Anorexia, bulimia and binge-eating disorders can hurt the heart and kidneys, cause osteoporosis, disrupt menstrual cycles, and toss electrolytes off-balance – to the point where the heart can stop.

Because so many people hide their eating disorders, statistics almost certainly underestimate their harm. But existing data is still distressing: About 9% of the U.S. population — nearly 30 million – will have an eating disorder during their lives, according to ANAD. Most, 85% to 90%, are women.

The Cost and the Coverage

Eating disorders cost America’s economy at least $64.7 billion in treatments and lost wages/productivity in 2018-19, according to a study published in the International Journal of Eating Disorders. The authors said the price tag likely is steeper due to reduced physical and mental well-being.

Employers can help through educational initiatives and by providing healthcare plans with access to behavioral health and nutritional counseling.

Capital Blue Cross offers a VirtualCare telehealth option and a behavioral health toolkit for certain employers, and Capital can connect you to a behavioral health professional 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.

Capital’s registered dietitians offer free nutritional consultations – in person and virtual, to members and nonmembers – and offer members covered follow-up medical nutrition therapy and health coaching at Capital Blue Cross Connect health and wellness centers.

Coping through Counseling

Eyer says eating disorders like Jane’s can only be contained, not cured.

“It’s an addiction,” Eyer said, “and like any other addiction, you need healthcare support through counseling, as well as inpatient and outpatient treatment programs.”

She said Jane will always have to fight hard to control her condition.

“She is improving, and doing well,” Eyer said. “But eating disorders are an ongoing struggle, and for Jane, as with most any eating disorder client, continued counseling and monitoring of her disorder are critical.”

For more health and wellness news and information that can benefit your business and employees, visit thinkcapitalbluecross.com.

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

What you’ll find ⤵️

For your weekend planning