Weekend Roundup with Sara Bozich

November 2, 2023 | 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: Mrs. Kasha Davis: There’s Always Time for a Cocktail at Open Stage on Saturday; Bare Bones Theatre Ensemble & Supper at Rubicon on Sunday Worth noting: Autos & Ales Craft Beer Festival on Friday; lots of way to start that holiday shopping on Saturday Things on my agenda this weekend: Seeing some friends, otherwise a quiet weekend – I’ll take it

For your weekend(ish) planning

9 Foodie Trips Not to Miss | AAA Central Penn
See what else you missed on the blog

Below are options for your weekend.

A Look Ahead

November sip @ soma featuring Deer Creek Malthouse
Find the perfect holiday-themed getaway — no planning required!
The Best Farmers Markets around Harrisburg
Submit your events for the Weekend Roundup

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SoMa Christmas Market to debut, kick off holiday shopping season

November 1, 2023 | by Lawrance Binda

Harrisburg’s SoMa neighborhood

This month, downtown Harrisburg will join a growing trend throughout central PA—an outdoors holiday market.

On Nov. 25, the SoMa Christmas Market will debut on S. 3^rd Street, running from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., featuring a variety of artists, crafts people, food trucks, beverage vendors and entertainment, according to organizer Harristown Enterprises.

“We’re excited to host this new event in SoMa,” said Brad Jones, Harristown’s president and CEO. “If you haven’t made it to one of our SoMa block parties—or even if you have—you’re in for a treat.”

For several years, Harristown has hosted summertime block parties on the 100-block of S. 3^rd Street, between Market and Chestnut streets, where the market also will take place.

In addition to street vendors, local SoMa retailers will be open, including such places as Tamara Boutique, Found Collab and Boneshire Taps at SoMa. Live entertainment will be provided by Nate Myers and the Aces and the Collinsville Discount Band.

The SoMa Christmas Market takes place on Small Business Saturday, offering shoppers a chance to support local small businesses.

The event is rain or shine. However, in the event of very bad weather, it will be moved indoors to Strawberry Square, according to Harristown.

For more information, visit www.somaharrisburg.com/soma-christmas-market.

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Could Be Yours: Pieces of Harrisburg’s commercial, cultural history set to hit the auction block

October 31, 2023 | by Lawrance Binda

A commercial sign from Camp Curtin Shoe Repair

Calling all Harrisburg history buffs: an upcoming auction will feature vintage items from such lost local icons as the Senate Theater and Fink Brewing Co.

On Tuesday, Cordier Auctions announced that a Nov. 11 consignment and estates auction will feature numerous pieces tied to Harrisburg history, in addition to other arts, antiques and collectibles.

Perhaps most notable, the auction will have up for bid many items from the art deco Senate Theater, which stood in downtown Harrisburg for half-a-century until being razed in 1988. These include theater seats, original doors, mirrors, a marque and Westinghouse speaker covers, among other pieces.

Seats from the Senate Theater

Numerous commercial and advertising pieces will also be up for sale. These include items from once-notable local businesses such as Hirsch Jewelers on 3rd Street, Schell Country Store on 10th and Market streets and Camp Curtin Shoe Repair in Uptown.

An Angelo Asti Fink’s Beer lithograph

The auction also includes an Angelo Asti lithograph for Fink’s Beer, a brewery located on Forster Street, coincidentally now the site of the state Liquor Control Board. Asti’s art, which often featured Victorian-era “pinup girls,” was often used for beer advertising.

The auction also will include furniture, art, collectibles and house and home items.

According to Cordier, other highlights include a Yrjo Krkkapuro mid-century modern sofa (estimate $600 to $1,000); Salvador Dali lithograph (estimate $600 to $800); Barnum & Bailey vintage circus posters (estimate $100 to $200); Jiang Tie Feng limited edition silkscreen (estimate $100to $200); a fur coat sewing table (estimate $80 to $100); a scientific sample chest from the Philadelphia Museum (estimate $100 to $200); and a Victorian marble wash stand (estimate $80 to $120).

Bidding for the auction will be online via LiveAuctioneers. Previews are available by appointment by contacting Cordier Auctions. For more information, visit www.CordierAuction.com or call 717-731-8662.

Click here to read TheBurg’s 2022 feature story on the history of Harrisburg breweries.

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Fly Away: State to begin crow dispersal program to prevent roosting at Capitol

October 31, 2023 | by Maddie Gittens

Pennsylvania State Capitol Complex

The commonwealth hopes to deter some unwelcome visitors from coming to the Capitol building in Harrisburg.

The Pennsylvania Department of General Services announced on Tuesday that it will begin its months-long “Crow Dispersal Program” on Nov. 6.

The annual program uses U.S. Department of Agriculture-approved methods of discharging exploding shells and whistling devices to deter crows from roosting on the buildings.

“Each year, for the past 26 years, the Capitol Police have implemented anti-roosting measures to keep crows off of the Capitol Complex – along with the hazards they can create,” Capitol Police Superintendent Joe Jacob said. “Since our measures include explosive shells and whistling devices, we always give the surrounding community advance notice to avoid any unnecessary panic or alarm.”

The program aims to disperse crows in order to help reduce slipping hazards for pedestrians due to a possible increase of crow waste that can accumulate on sidewalks, especially in wet weather. The crow waste can also cause damage to buildings in the Capitol Complex.

According to the state, the methods are non-lethal and not harmful to people, crows, other animals, or the environment.

The program will continue through the next few months and occur daily between 5 to 7 p.m., until the crows have been effectively dispersed.

For more information, visit the Department of General Services’ Crow Dispersal Program website.

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Hunger and Homelessness Awareness week to shine light on need, encourage volunteering

October 31, 2023 | by Maddie Gittens

A previous CCU cleanup event.

An upcoming week-long initiative will seek to shine a spotlight on a local need.

Christian Churches United of the Tri-County Area (CCU) will participate in National Hunger and Homelessness Awareness Week from Nov. 11 through 18.

During the week, the organization will highlight the challenges of hunger and homelessness and provide opportunities for people to volunteer and donate to support outreach efforts.

“It’s all of us coming together; that’s what our community needs,” said Nick Mucci, CCU’s director of development.

According to the Hunger and Homelessness Awareness Week website, more than 700 community organizations across the country are expected to participate in the initiative.

In Harrisburg, the community can get involved in cleaning encampments, serving meals to those in need and helping with laundry services, among other volunteer opportunities. CCU has partnered with other area groups to coordinate the week’s outreach efforts.

“We know we aren’t the only one engaging in doing local work,” Mucci said. “We are better together.”

The Kappa Omega Chapter of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity is one of the local organizations participating in the week. The group will provide a meal to 100 people at the homeless encampment near PennDOT.

“We hope to put a smile on some faces,” said Ian Wingfield, a member of Kappa Omega. “We want to let them know that people still care about you in spite of your situation.”

Additionally, the week will kick off with CCU’s annual United in Love Banquet and a clothing drive on Nov. 10. The week will also launch the 5th annual “Joy to the Burg” album and concert, which helps raise funds and awareness for homelessness services throughout the holiday season.

The schedule for the week is as follows:

Nov. 10: United in Love Banquet, clothing drive and Joy to the Burg kick-off
Nov. 11: Omega Psi Phi Fraternity meal, Harrisburg Havoc engagement activity and supplies, Compassion Action Network (CAN) litter clean up
Nov. 12: The Eclipse Project – Helping Harrisburg’s Homeless, meal and supply handout
Nov. 13: Project ASK information drop-in/Zoom: Supporting Students in West Shore SD
Nov. 16: Laundry Angels
Nov. 18: Winter Shelter and Safe Haven Volunteer Recruitment Breakfast
Nov. 18: Tent Valley Ministries Feeding and CAN Litter Clean Up
Nov. 18: Joy to the Burg at “Rockin’ the Burg” Harrisburg Parade

Mucci hopes that through the week, there will be an increased awareness of the issues of homelessness and poverty and that more people will decide to volunteer.

“The need is for ongoing volunteers that can commit to serve,” he said.

For more information about Hunger and Homelessness Awareness Week, visit CCU’s website.

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Harrisburg officials respond to weekend shooting involving youth, discuss prevention efforts

October 30, 2023 | by Maddie Gittens

(From left) Police Commissioner Thomas Carter, Mayor Wanda Williams, City Council member Ralph Rodriguez, Harrisburg School District Superintendent Eric Turman and police Lt. Kyle Gautsch, at a press conference.

Harrisburg officials have vowed to double down on the city’s efforts to prevent violence, following a weekend shooting involving youth.

At a Monday morning press conference, Mayor Wanda Williams, along with Harrisburg Police Bureau and other city officials, addressed a Sunday afternoon shooting, which left three children injured.

“When is enough enough?” Williams said. “Now we are talking about children who are on the streets playing, and I want to say today that we are not going to tolerate this.”

On Sunday at 3:30 p.m., police were dispatched to the area of N. 18^th and Regina streets to investigate reports of shots fired. Officers first located an 11-year-old girl who was shot in the abdomen. She was taken to a local hospital in critical condition, but after surgery, is in stable condition and expected to recover, according to Lt. Kyle Gautsch.

Shortly after the girl was found, police were advised that a 3-year-old boy was shot, sustaining a minor wound in his leg. Police were then made aware that a 13-year-old boy had also been shot. Both victims were taken to the hospital and are expected to recover as well, Gautsch confirmed.

According to Gautsch, police believe that the 13-year-old may have been with someone who was possibly the intended target, when the shooters, who were on foot, began firing in the area. They do not believe that the 11- or 3-year-old were intended targets. Police currently believe that there were two shooters involved.

“The type of person that does that—that’s just horrible,” Gautsch said. “I think there’s probably a lot of us that have children and are parents. I envision my own children on the street when something like that happens.”

The investigation is currently ongoing, Gautsch said.

However, police officials shared that they are feeling hopeful that progress will be made based on the amount of community and witness assistance on the case. Neighbors were helpful in speaking with police and several tips have been submitted to the Harrisburg CRIMEWATCH website.

“It’s reassuring to see that the community is not willing to tolerate children being shot in our streets,” Gautsch said.

Williams shared that the bureau has deployed around 30 to 40 additional police officers, along with help from other agencies, as part of a saturation detail in the community following the incident.

City officials also plan to meet in the coming days to discuss an action plan to address preventative measures, she said.

The bureau received over $3.3 million in grants from the Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency in December 2022 to purchase gunshot detection technology and video doorbell cameras for homes in high-crime areas, among other technologies. These initiatives are still in progress and have yet to be implemented, according to Police Commissioner Thomas Carter.

Carter also shared that the police bureau has increased its presence in the community this year, as it has worked with other agencies to get additional officers on the streets.

“We’ve been out there constantly,” he told TheBurg. “We’ve been out there so much that I am depleting the public safety budget because of this mess.”

Referring to Sunday’s tragic shooting, Carter said that the bureau will find those responsible.

“We are going to bring the noise,” he said.

Anyone with information on the incident is encouraged to contact the Harrisburg Police Bureau at 717-558-6900. Tips and information can also be submitted via the CRIMEWATCH website.

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Community Corner: Notable November Events

October 30, 2023 | by Missy Smith

Homeschoolers Days
Nov. 1, 2, 3, 8: Students in grades 2 to 6 and their parents are invited to Fort Hunter, 5300 N. Front St., Harrisburg, to learn about American history, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Students will learn about Native Americans who lived along the Susquehanna River and will take a tour of the Fort Hunter Mansion to learn about life during the Victorian era. www.forthunter.org

Climate Plans
Nov. 2: Manada Conservancy hosts “A Path Forward: Local Climate Action” at Hershey Gardens, 170 Hotel Rd., 7 p.m. In this panel-style presentation, state and local experts will discuss the state’s climate action plan and how local townships can use tools to create their own climate action plans. www.manada.org

Autos & Ales
Nov. 3: Join the AACA Museum, 161 Museum Dr., Hershey, for Autos & Ales, with regional breweries, dozens of craft beers for sampling, live music and a catered dinner, 6 to 10 p.m. www.aacamuseum.org

HBG Flea
Nov. 4: Shop the HBG Flea for local art, vintage treasures, curated curios and unique gifts, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., at Strawberry Square, 320 Market 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

1920s Gala
Nov. 4: Vista Autism Services hosts a “Roaring ‘20s Gala” at AACA Museum, 161 Museum Dr., Hershey, in support of the organization’s mission. Guests can see vehicles from the museum’s collection, enjoy live vintage jazz music, sip complimentary drinks and dance the night away. Dress in 1920s attire. www.vistaautismservices.org

Trivia Fundraiser
Nov. 4: The Cumberland Singers community chorus will host a Disney Trivia fundraiser on at 3 p.m. Tickets are $15 each or $10 for children ages 7 to 12, which includes admission, four rounds of Disney trivia and one raffle ticket. The event is at St. Paul’s United Church of Christ, 626 Williams Grove Rd., Mechanicsburg. www.cumberlandsingers.org/summer-trivia-august-28/

Macramé Ornaments
Nov. 5: Sign up for a beginner macramé workshop to create your own handcrafted set of holiday-themed ornaments at Wildwood Lake, 100 Wildwood Way, Harrisburg, 10 a.m. and 3 p.m. The workshop fee includes all materials and instruction needed to complete two macramé ornaments. www.explorewildwoodpark.org

20 in Their 20s
Nov. 8: Harrisburg Young Professionals hosts the fifth annual “20 in Their 20s” to honor a group of young people who already are doing amazing things, 5:30 to 8:30 p.m., at the Hilton Harrisburg, 1 N. 2nd St. The celebration will include food and drink stations along with a presentation to honor the nominees. www.hyp.org

Evening Mixer
Nov. 9: Join West Shore Chamber of Commerce for an evening mixer at AES Hearth & Patio, 4303 Carlisle Pike, Camp Hill, 5 to 7 p.m. This free event is open to chamber members. Potential members are welcome to attend. www.wschamber.org

Food Rally
Nov. 9: 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

Film Friday
Nov. 10: Fredricksen Library, 100 N. 19th St., Camp Hill, will show “Tokyo Sonata” from Japan at 2 p.m. Read the film’s description on the library’s website. Stick around for a discussion after the film. www.fredricksenlibrary.org

30th Gala
Nov. 10: Ned Smith Center for Nature & Art celebrates its 30th anniversary at the Country Club of Harrisburg, 401 Fishing Creek Valley Rd., 6 to 9 p.m. Get dressed up for an evening dedicated to the past and future of the center. Enjoy live entertainment, a cocktail buffet, raffles, auctions and a few surprises. www.nedsmithcenter.org

Ladies Night
Nov. 10: Get together with friends for Ladies Night Out at PCCA Gallery, 1. S. 2nd St., Newport, and surrounding downtown businesses and local eateries, 6 to 9 p.m. Shop at local businesses to do some holiday shopping. Dress up in this year’s theme, “80s Party.” www.perrycountyarts.org

Craft Show
Nov. 10-11: Winters Heritage House Museum, 47 E. High St., Elizabethtown, hosts its annual Heritage Craft Show, featuring local artisans selling handmade gifts, jewelry, décor, apparel, foods and more. www.elizabethtownhistory.org

Christmas Show
Nov. 10-12: Take the whole family to the Thomas Brendle Museum, 106 N. Market St., Schaefferstown, for the Distelfink Country Christmas Show. The juried holiday show features local and handcrafted items in country, primitive style by more than 50 vendors. Shop for wreaths, baskets, gourds, needle felting, pottery, candles and paintings and more. www.distelfinkcrafters.org/holiday-craft-show.html

Volunteer Day
Nov. 11: Enjoy the outdoors and help with park and habitat enhancement projects at Wildwood Park, 100 Wildwood Way, Harrisburg, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Tools and work gloves will be provided, and refreshments will be available. www.explorewildwoodpark.org

Veterans Day
Nov. 11: The National Civil War Museum will offer free admission for veterans, active-duty military service members and military retirees from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. www.nationalcivilwarmuseum.org

Benefit Gala
Nov. 11: Join Wildheart Ministries for an “Evening to Celebrate Transformation—A Gala Benefitting Wildheart” at The National Civil War Museum, 1 Lincoln Circle, Harrisburg, 6 to 9 p.m. Proceeds benefit Wildheart’s community-building projects. Deadline to buy tickets is Nov. 1. www.lovethehillpa.com

Harrisburg Marathon
Nov. 12: Celebrate 51 years of the Enders Harrisburg Marathon, 6:30 a.m. to 12 p.m., beginning on City Island, Harrisburg. This fast, flat marathon winds through city streets and forested paths, across bridges, and through natural features unique to the capital city. Sign up for the full race, half marathon or four-person relay. www.hbgyrun.org

Seed Sharing
Nov. 12: Wild Ones of South-Central PA invites the community to its Native Plant Seed Share and Sustainable Landscaping Presentation at Giant Food Stories, 3301 E. Trindle Rd., Camp Hill, 1 to 4 p.m. www.sepa.wildones.org

PA Preservation
Nov. 13: Mindy Crawford, executive director of Preservation Pennsylvania, and Julie Fitzpatrick, executive director of the PA Downtown Center, present “The State of Preservation in Pennsylvania,” at Historic Harrisburg Association, 1230 N. 3rd St., Harrisburg, 6 p.m. www.historicharrisburg.org

Hike Day
Nov. 17: Grab your hiking boots, family and friends for National Take a Hike Day at Detweiler Park, Fort Hunter or Wildwood Park, 8 to 10 a.m. Take a hike with a naturalist or at your own pace on various terrain exploring the trails and wildlife. All ages are welcome. www.explorewildwoodpark.org

Curiosity Kids
Nov. 17: Kids ages 3 to 6 are invited to the State Museum of Pennsylvania, 300 North St., Harrisburg, to learn about memory and logic and how they play a part in our daily lives, 11:30 a.m. to 12 p.m. Curiosity Kids events are included with museum general admission, but space is limited. www.statemuseumpa.org

3rd in The Burg
Nov. 17: 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

Ornaments Workshop
Nov. 18: Penn State Extension Master Gardeners of Cumberland County hosts a Wildlife Tree Ornaments workshop at Penn State Extension office, 310 Allen Rd., Carlisle, 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. Kids ages 5 to 14 can make feeders and natural ornaments to decorate trees and feed wildlife at home. The workshop fee is $10, including supplies. www.extension.psu.edu

Holiday Parade
Nov. 18: Enjoy Harrisburg’s annual holiday parade with giant parade balloons, marching band and dance team performances, decorated floats, characters, Santa Claus and more, starting at 10 a.m. After the parade, head to Strawberry Square to meet Santa and enjoy hot chocolate and cookies. www.harrisburgpa.gov

Friendsgiving Feast
Nov. 18: Church World Service hosts the 2nd Annual International Friendsgiving To-Go Feast, 4 to 6 p.m. Experience Afghanistan, Central African Republic, Pakistan, Syria and Ukraine cultures with a delicious to-go meal, and discover the rich heritage of the recipe creators. Group discounts are available. www.cwsharrisburg.org

Art Tour
Nov. 18-19: The Foothills Artists will hold their 16th annual studio tour throughout Adams County, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Eight studio locations will feature paintings, pottery, sculpture, woodworking, photography, printmaking, fiber and textile arts, enamels, jewelry, calligraphy and bookbinding. www.foothillsartists.net

Youth Concert
Nov. 19: The Susquehanna Chorale and three of its educational choirs will hold their annual Youth Choral Festival at 4 p.m. at the Calvin and Janet High Center for Worship and Performing Arts, Messiah University. www.susquehannachorale.org

Monte Carlo Night
Nov. 19: Enjoy games of chance and casino excitement at Monte Carlo Night at the Alexander Grass Campus for Jewish Life, 2986 N. 2nd St., Harrisburg, 7 to 10 p.m. The event includes signature drinks and beer, camp-themed snacks, hors d’oeuvres and more to benefit JCC Summer Camp. www.jewishharrisburg.org

Light Show
Nov. 24-Dec. 31: Experience the Christmas Spirit Light Show at Clipper Magazine Stadium, 650 N. Prince St., Lancaster, for a festive drive-through light show, with hundreds of thousands of color-changing lights, synchronized to Christmas music. www.ChristmasSpiritLights.com

Odd Ones Bizarre
Nov. 25: The Millworks, 340 Verbeke St., Harrisburg, hosts its annual The Odd Ones Holiday Bizarre, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Shop for unique, handcrafted items for the holiday season at this annual alternative arts and crafts event. www.millworksharrisburg.com

Wreath Workshop
Nov. 25, 26, 28: Create an evergreen wreath out of natural materials at Wildwood Lake, 100 Wildwood Way, Harrisburg, 9 a.m. and 3 p.m. The workshop cost is $30 per person, which includes supplies to make a wreath with natural decorations like cones, berries, nuts and seedpods. Bring personal work gloves and/or decorations. www.explorewildwoodpark.org

Group Connection
Nov. 28: Tri County Community Action hosts Group Connection, a free event for families with children from prenatal to kindergarten, 10 to 11:30 a.m., at Harrisburg Brethren in Christ. The whole family can enjoy fall-themed activities, treats and stories. www.cactricounty.org

Christmas Show
Nov. 29-Dec. 3: Shop the 40th Annual Pennsylvania Christmas and Gift Show at the PA Farm Show Complex, 2301 N. Cameron St., Harrisburg. Actress and author Karolyn Grimes, best known for her role as Zuzu Bailey in the classic 1946 holiday film, “It’s A Wonderful Life,” will attend the show all five days. www.pachristmasshow.com

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AI and Me: The one where I hand my column over to ChatGPT

October 30, 2023 | by Lawrance Binda

Illustration by Rich Hauck

Last month, I was feeling rather lazy, so had a “brilliant” idea: I would let ChatGPT write my column for me.

For those who don’t know, ChatGPT is an AI (artificial intelligence) model that lets a person use simple, plain-language instructions to answer questions and develop content, with responses rendered in human-like text.

You give it parameters like, “Write a story of 500 words about Harrisburg and impersonate TheBurg editor, Lawrance Binda.”

So, that’s what I did.

With thousands of bylines under my belt, I felt confident that ChatGPT had plenty to work with: news articles, features, columns, blog posts, editorials, etc. If they handed out Pulitzer Prizes for quantity, not quality, I’d stand a fighting chance.

So, off I ventured into our collective utopian/dystopian future, where I could sit back and let all-knowing AI do my job for me. Let’s just say that it didn’t work out as well as I hoped.

In all, I ran eight queries. Some of the content was chillingly spot-on. Some of it was funny. But far too much of it was just plain wrong—and wrong in creative, often alarming, ways.

I started out asking for a column about Harrisburg, imitating me. What I got was, well, something else entirely:

“Wandering the streets of Midtown, you might have observed the gentle transformation; the canvas of our town gradually being painted with strokes of amber, rust and gold. Small gatherings at Italian Lake now include the soft hum of conversation peppered with the rustling of leaves underfoot.”

Yikes! Flowery is not my style, and this text was as florid as Riverfront Park in the springtime.

Even worse, ChatGPT urged people to attend the “annual Harrisburg Harvest Festival,” saying it’s “just around the corner.” What in the name of pumpkin spice is that?

Unfortunately, this tendency to make up people/places/events became a common theme throughout my effort.

Disappointed with the first try, I narrowed my search. This time, I asked ChatGPT to write a column, mimicking me, on “development in Harrisburg,” a topic I’ve written about umpteen times. The program did a better job with this one.

The language was more restrained, though still often over the top (“Harrisburg is once again a canvas upon which developers and dreamers are painting their visions of the future”—ugh.). But it did rightly imitate my (too frequent) use of lists and categories to present problems and solutions.

Then there were the things that I’d never do. It quoted Robert Frost. It used the word, “Harrisburgians.” It said nice things about the state government. Sacrilege!

I actually ran this “development” query four times, adjusting the length of the response. I assumed I’d get the same basic essay, only shorter—but no. Each time, ChatGPT gave me a column that was unique, substantially different from the one before.

Hands down, the funniest version came when it spat out a piece it called “Harrisburg’s Development Dance: A City on the Rise.” In this essay, Harrisburg is engaged in a “dance of development” as “we waltz through the ongoing renaissance” and “master the art of that graceful dance.” Block that metaphor!

To my knowledge, I’ve never compared Harrisburg development to a waltz, a tango, the bump, the Hustle or any other dance, though ChatGPT did so six times in that one piece. It also, in two of the columns, had me advocating for development of the city’s waterfront—which I’ve never done.

Finally, I asked ChatGPT to write me a column about Forster Street, a subject I’ve addressed so often that even I’ve grown tired of it.

It correctly knew that—let’s be honest—I detest Forster Street. However, it had a hard time putting its virtual finger on exactly why.

State-owned Forster Street is overbuilt and dangerous. Its six-plus lanes vastly exceed the traffic needs between the bridge and the Capitol Complex. Meanwhile, it encourages reckless driving, foments blight and needlessly divides our city. As a pedestrian, I’ve nearly lost my life several times trying to cross it.

But, to ChatGPT, I don’t like Forster Street because of—potholes?

“Ah, those craters that seem to have a mind of their own, popping up unexpectedly like mischievous trolls.”

Not true. Kudos to PennDOT for maintaining pretty well its ugly, horrible, deadly road.

ChatGPT also thinks, for some reason, that Forster Street needs better lighting. It believes this so passionately that it simply fabricated several dramatic scenarios, presenting them as true:

“One elderly woman shared her harrowing experience of almost tripping on a broken pavement slab, barely escaping a fall that could have had life-altering consequences. Another recounted an unsettling encounter when she felt vulnerable, surrounded by darkness as she waited for a late-night bus.”

I’ve never written anything like that, and the fact that ChatGPT invented these false encounters on my behalf was the day’s most disturbing result. If ChatGPT worked for me, I would fire it immediately.

In the end, AI didn’t really save me time or effort, but it did make me feel better about my job. I logged off with renewed faith that artificial intelligence is no substitute for the vital, expensive, grueling work done by flesh-and-blood journalists, reporting daily on the real life around us.

Lawrance Binda is publisher and editor of TheBurg.

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November News Digest

October 30, 2023 | by Lawrance Binda and Maddie Gittens

Apartment Project Approved

A major downtown Harrisburg development project can move forward after receiving city approval.

Last month, Harrisburg City Council unanimously approved a proposal to turn the former Federal Building into a 162-unit apartment building.

A New Jersey-based developer, Yasser Hellel, has proposed adaptively reusing the vacant, 11-story office building at N. 3rd and Walnut streets and constructing one-bedroom, two-bedroom and studio units.

The building would also include first-floor commercial space and amenities such as a fitness center, penthouse lounge, shared office space, a rooftop deck and shared lobby.

Hellel said that the units would rent at market rate, with the exception of 10, which would be affordable by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development guidelines.

According to Hellel, the total cost of the project, including acquisition costs, would total about $35 million.

The building previously housed the U.S. District Court for the Middle District of Pennsylvania and other federal offices. Personnel have since moved to the new federal courthouse on N. 6th Street.

Hellel has said that he expects to begin construction early in the summer of 2024, continuing for about 18 months.

Firefighters Sworn In

The Harrisburg Fire Bureau last month swore in four new firefighters at a ceremony in the bureau’s Station 1 on N. 6th Street.

Additionally, the bureau awarded numerous firefighters for their lifesaving accomplishments, including CPR saves and fire rescues.
“Today is a day that we celebrate the acts of these members and their daily service and commitment to not only Harrisburg, but the region and our great country,” Fire Chief Brian Enterline said.

At the ceremony, Mayor Wanda Williams swore in four new firefighters: Kevin Tarapchak, Samuel Welk, Joshua Jones and Kaleb Shreiner. The new members bring the bureau’s complement of firefighters to 96.

According to Enterline, the new firefighters completed fire training at HACC and have been working in the bureau since June.

“We are grateful to have them join the ranks of our team,” Enterline said.

Also at the ceremony, Enterline announced the return of a partnership with the Harrisburg School District to have firefighters visit the district’s schools to talk with students about fire safety and career opportunities. The bureau is picking the program back up after over a decade without it.

“We really wanted to show our kids in Harrisburg that being a firefighter is a career opportunity,” said district Superintendent Eric Turman.

Enterline highlighted the fact that there have been no fatalities from fires in the city in the past two years and that the bureau responded to over 3,000 calls in 2022.

“These everyday calls may seem mundane to us. However, to the 911 caller, it is probably their worst nightmare,” he said. “It gives our members an opportunity to engage and make a difference.”

Flag Center Debuts

For the first time, the community can learn about the commonwealth’s historic flags in an interactive exhibit.

Last month, officials cut the ribbon on the Pennsylvania Civil War Battle Flag Education Center in Harrisburg.

“This education center provides an immersive experience to our guests,” said Rep. Patty Kim (D-103), chair of the Pennsylvania Capitol Preservation Committee. “We are very excited for you to see this.”

The preservation committee, formed in 1981, has worked to preserve about 403 Civil War and Spanish-American War flags that are in the state’s possession and spearheaded the project to create the education center.

The new center, located in a state Department of General Services Building at 2221 Forster St., now not only houses the flags, but allows visitors to view them and learn about their history through an exhibit.

From 1985 to 2020, the flag collection was located in a building at Market and N. 10th streets. Since then, the committee has worked to create the exhibit, which includes interactive touch screens with flag information, as well as artifacts like war equipment, uniforms and soldiers’ personal items.

According to Kim, the collection is one of the largest state-issued collections of flags in the nation.

“These flags were incredibly important tools of war. Amidst the confusion of battle, they provided direction and inspiration for soldiers,” said Andrea Lowery, executive director of the Pennsylvania Historic and Museum Commission. “And these flags here illustrate the immeasurable sacrifices made by hundreds of thousands of Pennsylvanians.”

Catalyst Winners Named

Seven people and organizations will receive one of the Harrisburg area’s most prestigious annual awards, as the Harrisburg Regional Chamber & CREDC announced its 2023 Catalyst Award winners.

Corrie Lingenfelter, executive director of Downtown Daily Bread, will receive the Catalyst Award itself, for her contributions to the community. Harrisburg-based Downtown Daily Bread serves as a shelter and kitchen for the homeless and food insecure.

The other award recipients are:

Athena Award: Virginia Roth, Color & Culture
Diversity Influencer of the Year: TE Connectivity’s African Heritage ERG-PA Chapter
Entrepreneur of the Year: Jonathan Bowser, Steel Works Construction
Government Leader of the Year: state Sen. Greg Rothman
Small Business of The Year: Burn 30
Volunteer of The Year: Michael Burke, PNC Bank

Each year, the Catalyst Awards recognize recipients for their commitment to leading positive change in the region, creating more opportunities for business, and building a brighter future in the region.

TheBurg received the Catalyst Award in 2018.

“We are incredibly proud to honor this dynamic and diverse group of visionary individuals and businesses for their dedication and commitment to improving our region,” said Ryan Unger, president & CEO of the Harrisburg Regional Chamber & CREDC.

Home Sales Drop, Prices Rise

Harrisburg-area homes sales declined but prices inched higher in September, in the latest report on the sale of previously owned homes.

For the three-county region, 542 homes sold, compared to 685 in the year-ago period, as the median sales price rose to $260,575 from $254,900, according to the Greater Harrisburg Association of Realtors (GHAR).

In Dauphin County, 258 houses sold in September versus 317 a year ago, while the median price was nearly unchanged at $229,900, GHAR stated.

Cumberland County had 257 sales, a drop from 324 the prior September, as the median sales price rose to $310,000 from $275,000, GHAR reported.

In Perry County, 22 homes sold, a dip from 40 in the previous year, as the median price rose to $257,000 from $217,450, according to GHAR.

The pace of home sales remained unchanged from a year ago, with the “average days on market” holding steady at 21 days.

So Noted

Barbara Barksdale last month received the NSDAR Historic Preservation Medal and Certificate from the Harrisburg chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution. Barksdale, a historian, was honored for her years-long work to preserve Midland Cemetery and as a founder of Pennsylvania Hallowed Ground, which supports the preservation of historically Black burial grounds.

Capital Area School for the Arts last month was named one of the top-performing charter high schools in Pennsylvania, as acknowledged by the Pennsylvania Coalition of Public Charter Schools. Harrisburg-based CASA educates up to 200 students from nine counties and 30 school districts.

Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship at Harrisburg University last month received a check for $250,000 from M&T Bank to support its programming for startup businesses. The center, located inside Strawberry Square, serves as an incubator for local entrepreneurs, with a focus on minority- and women-owned businesses.

Madlyn L. Hanes Library at Penn State Harrisburg in Middletown last month was named 2023 Library of the Year. According to the Pennsylvania Library Association, the award honors the library’s overall excellence, including for service, programming and volunteering.

Mary Oliveira has been named the new president and CEO of Whitaker Center for Science and the Arts in downtown Harrisburg. In this role, Oliveira will lead the organization in strategic planning, financial stewardship and community engagement, among other areas. She replaces former CEO Ted Black, who departed in April.

Michelle Loucas last month was installed as the head of St. Stephen’s Episcopal School in Harrisburg. Loucas previously served as assistant head of school and, in her new position, will oversee all operations at the school, which serves preschool through the eighth grade.

Sam Sweet has been appointed executive director of The Pennsylvania Heritage Foundation, the statewide nonprofit partner of the Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission. He brings over 20 years of experience in the nonprofit sector, leading cultural and educational institutions, according to the foundation.

Schaedler Yesco Distribution last month entered into an agreement to acquire Clarion Electric Supply, a supplier of electrical parts and service in northwest PA. Harrisburg-based Schaelder Yesco offers services and products for lighting, power distribution, data networking, automation and industrial needs, according to the company.

Teresa Gonzalez has joined The Foundation for Enhancing Communities as a community investment associate, according to the Harrisburg-based community foundation. Another TFEC staff member, Sharon Bass, has been promoted from financial services associate to controller.

Changing Hands

Bellevue Rd., 1927: J. Patchen & KLJ Investment Properties LLC to Penn Properties Associates LLC, $75,000

Bellevue Rd., 1933: R. & E. Grullon to J. Alvarado, $50,000

Bellevue Rd., 2100: Mid Penn Bank to A. & A. Adelanwa, $309,500

Berryhill St., 1643: A&K Investments Partnership LLC to Y. Alrosan, $140,000

Boas St., 219: J. Nicholson to E. Reed, $229,900

Boas St., 231: C. Harris to JRJ Investments LLC, $170,000

Brookwood St., 2115: T. Leach & M. Mesec to E. Fajardo, $55,000

Calder St., 215: C. Fee to M. Woolley & L. Evans, $129,900

Camp St., 657: Keim Brothers LLC to MAT Holdings LLC, $72,000

Catherine St., 1624: M., D. & M. Braktia to G. Milan, $80,000

Chestnut St., 1826: Wengs Labor Services LLC to J. Zamor, $142,000

Chestnut St., 1842: J. Stoncius to M. Bolos, $75,000

Conoy St., 121: K. & J. Russell to Horizon Investments RE LLC, $220,000

Croyden Rd., 2807: A. Blackwell to E. Ayala & K. Vogt, $135,000

Croyden Rd., 2887: B. & K. Sheehe to J. Rittenhouse, $136,000

Curtin St., 538: R. & D. Requa to Elevated Minds Realty LLC, $60,000

Edward St., 106: Aljo Properties LLC to T. Bostic, $199,900

Green St., 2233: R. & D. Requa to Landaff Enterprises LLC, $125,000

Green St., 3000: N. & C. Gras to J. & L. Kreider, $359,000

Greenwood St., 2126: Puzzle Properties LLC to M. Munoz, $123,000

Holly St., 1806: D. Boyle to M. Guzman & P. Acevedo, $62,000

Kensington St., 2315: D. & K. Borelli to Pledgestone Partners LLC, $95,000

Lewis St., 235: D. & C. Borowsky to B. Oumlil, $350,000

Logan St., 2438: M. & M. Iman to D. Quinones, $189,000

Market St., 1205A: Golden Brick Road LLC to K. Mathis, $192,000

Moore St., 2135: A. Bouhach to W. Max, $107,000

Mulberry St., 1955: M. Bedon to M. Gonzalez, $165,000

N. 2nd St., 1008: Grentals LLC to D. & L. Butcher, $359,000

N. 2nd St., 2719: P. & K. Miovas to B. Leshko & D. Bogen, $359,000

N. 3rd St., 1001, 1004, 1006, 1008, 1010, 1013 & 1010 Susquehanna St.: Maki Developments LLC to SJL Rentals LLC, $1,775,000

N. 3rd St., 1820: DPS Properties LLC to A. Cheng, $400,000

N. 3rd St., 2239: G. Gonzales to M. Belle, $74,000

N. 3rd St., 3118: J. Cruz to K. Radle, $210,000

N. 4th St., 2342: Fine Line Real Estate to A. Crespo, $199,900

N. 5th St., 2008: R. Fulton to H. Scott, $118,000

N. 5th St., 2402: Carters Clean Up LLC to K. Hernandez, $75,000

N. 6th St., 3153: D. & K. Borelli to Normans Realty Service Inc., $95,000

N. 7th St., 2700: M. Graybill to M. Debeljak, $53,000

N. 12th St., 54: I. Colon to MAT Holdings LLC, $75,000

N. 13th St., 124: T. Gilmore to Dreams 2 Reality Services LLC, $63,000

N. 13th St., 1207: Tri State Property Holdings to V. Reyes, $196,500

N. 18th St., 817: BCR-2 Properties LLC to R. Alcantara, $155,600

N. 20th St., 15 & 2008 Ethel St.: Evidence Group LLC to J. Sanchez de Polanco, $160,000

N. River St., 3105: G. & J. Peiffer & K. Watkins to M. & T. Chronister, $186,310

Norwood St., 922: M. Gonzalez to J. Quinones, $182,000

Penn St., 2144: MCLP Asset Company Inc. to Oasis Property Investment LLC, $70,000

Race St., 562: SJL Rentals LLC to 562 Race St. LLC & Commercial Loan Funding LLC, $275,000

Race St., 564: SJL Rentals LLC to E. Abutboul, $220,000

Randolph St., 1516: A. & W. Davis to F. & S. Asiyah, $155,000

Reel St., 2425: B. Dewalt, Heavy Lift Property & Greg Burston Management to F. & P. Eras, $92,000

Reel St., 2626: R. Deeb to E. Chattah, $67,000

Rolleston St., 1122: T. Hang & B. Nguyen to R. Young, $149,000

Rolleston St., 1138: A. Hassan to R. Esmurria & V. Melendez, $145,100

Showers St., 700: G. Diehl to S. Smith & M. Masciandaro, $225,000

South St., 122: J. Charles Realty LLC to I. Bah, $206,000

S. 16th St., 409, 411, 413 & 1600 Hunter St.: G. & M. Landis to V. Santos, $160,000

S. 16th St., 953: J. Warren to Y. de Oca, $152,000

S. 17th St., 33: S. Reyes to O. Malcolm, $105,000

S. 17th St., 230: R. & D. Requa to L. Lopez, $55,000

S. 21st St., 916: L. Chatman to B. Jarkow & R. Reuveni, $90,118

S. 28th St., 735: P. & L. Brown to A. Hill, $147,500

State St., 217: 217 State St. LLC to R. Shaffer, $270,000

State St., 231, Unit 706: S. Chaudhuri to LUX Rentals LLC, $145,5000

State St., 1728: R. Vazquez to E. Perez, $45,000

State St., 1915: A. Elnigoumi to Sego Realty LLC, $98,000

Susquehanna St., 1611: SJL Rentals LLC to LSB Rentals LLC, $220,000

Susquehanna St., 1831: J. Colston to K. Ralph & C. Leebron, $205,000

Susquehanna St., 2018: P. Truong to Embark Investment LLC, $42,000

Swatara St., 1317: J. Gonzalez to Inaya Real Estate LLC & Z&Z Real Estate LLC, $130,000

Tuscarora St., 117: K. Yesilonis to M. Hofelich & L. Wegrzniak, $229,000

Verbeke St., 266: G. & P. Kaldes to J. Huff & Huff NC Homes LLC, $147,500

Walnut St., 1810: Global Reach LLC to J. & A. Pena, $132,000

Walnut St., 1902: Ausy Properties LLC to N. Ramos, $99,900

Washington St., 109: DPS Properties LLC to DLK Properties LLC, $360,000

Whitehall St., 2027: J. Patchen & KLJ Investment Properties LLC to Penn Properties Associates LLC, $75,000

Wyeth St., 1404: F. Frattarole to P. & A. Bathla, $170,000

Wyeth St., 1406: J. Oskam to PA Deals LLC, $130,000

Harrisburg property sales, September 2023, greater than $40,000. Source: Dauphin County. Data is assumed to be accurate.

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The Hidden Homeless: In the Harrisburg area, many people have lost their housing, but you won’t find them living on the street

October 30, 2023 | by Susan Ryder

Steve Foehlinger and his children.

“Do I separate myself from my kids, or do I stay on the streets with them?” asked Steve Foehlinger, of the bleak reality he faced as an unhoused father with two children.

He came to this crossroads after running the gambit of housing options, doubling up with friends and family and living in a hotel for a year. These are options for some folks dealing with homelessness, but they come at a steep emotional and financial cost.

After living with friends, Foehlinger, his young son and daughter had to move when their hosting family lost their own housing.

“When you are trying to move forward with your life, sometimes when you double up, you take on that extra stress from the family you’re living with,” he said.

Foehlinger is one of many people in the Harrisburg area who can be described as the “hidden homeless.” They’re not readily visible as people lacking permanent housing. You won’t see them in the tent encampment under the South Bridge or sleeping in the park. Their numbers are substantial, but they’re not included in the annual count of the homeless population.

Instead, after losing their housing, they scrambled to find whatever shelter they could so they didn’t end up living on the street. They couch-surfed. They paid outrageous weekly rents to live in cramped, unsafe, rundown hotels. They shuffled among friends, relatives and even sympathetic strangers—a week here, a week there.

Often, like Foehlinger, they have children in tow.

Joanne Taylor, her husband and daughter found themselves homeless nine years ago after a rent-to-own opportunity went sour.

“The house that we went after was condemned because of its foundation and structure,” Taylor said.

The family moved into a nonfunctional RV parked on an out-of-the-way piece of property. It was basically a box to keep them out of the elements, but it didn’t do that very well. Taylor broke up a bit when she described their time there.

“If you’ve ever seen the movie, ‘Frozen,’ where everything freezes up, that’s what our windows looked like,” she said.

Eventually, the family moved into a hotel. On the upside, it was warmer, but the downsides were plenty. The cost, for example. The least amount Taylor has ever spent on a hotel was $300 a week. Foehlinger has paid as much as $500.

“Most people see it [living in a hotel] from their perspective,” said Aisha Mobley, community mobilization and outreach coordinator at Christian Churches United of the Tri-County Area.

However, it definitely is not the Marriott.

“There’s a difference between staying in a hotel because you’re on business and staying in a hotel because you’re homeless,” Foehlinger said.

When asked about the hardest part of living in a hotel, Kalieb Foehlinger chimed in from the background.

“The space!” he said. “You have a bed here, a bed here, right near your bathroom. You don’t have much space to move around.”

Storing belongings adds to the confined conditions.

Both Foehlinger and Taylor mentioned how needed repairs were neglected in their hotel rooms. During the August heat wave, Taylor’s hotel air conditioner died. It hasn’t been repaired yet. They’ve also had an infestation of cockroaches, which caused them to leave the hotel they lived in for three years.

Stuck in a Hole

As the coordinator of a community center in a local hotel, created by Fishing Creek Salem UMC, Marty Wagner is very familiar with hotel life. He described what it’s like.

“Living in a 12-by-12 room with a minimum of two children, 24 hours a day, seven days a week, with all your stuff, a dorm-sized refrigerator and the only way to cook your food is a microwave, ” he said.

He pointed out that’s why so many budget hotels have grills outside the rooms—so people can cook for themselves.

Wagner said that at least 40 families live in this particular hotel and described the money vacuum it creates.

“Once they get into this situation, it’s super difficult to get out of it because of their credit,” he said. “I would say that 90% to 95% that live here have jobs.”

Bad credit is one reason people find themselves in a hotel.

“People end up in hotels because you pay by the day,” Mobley said. “They take everybody.”

She said that the lack of inventory makes the housing market very competitive, and people with poor credit, any type of criminal background, reentering society after imprisonment, or an eviction find it very difficult to rent. Add the application costs, first month’s rent and security deposit, and it’s darn near impossible.

“They are stuck in a hole,” Mobley said.

Being stuck in this hole also makes them hidden. They aren’t on the street, and they aren’t on paper. These people are not included in the “point-in-time count,” done once a year, to measure homelessness in the United States.

And “they can’t get into coordinated entry,” Mobley said.

Coordinated entry is the process by which folks enter the shelter system in Dauphin County. It’s like a funnel in which applicants’ names go, and they get assigned to a shelter according to their need. However, folks in hotels, doubled up or couch surfing are not eligible, according to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development’s (HUD) definition of homelessness (it has four) to enter coordinated entry. So, they are blocked from the shelter system.

To become eligible for a shelter spot, people like Steve Foehlinger would have to be living in an “uninhabitable” space, like his car, according to HUD. However, if he chose this, his children could be taken from him. To keep his kids, he continued to pay exorbitant hotel rates.

Costs aren’t the only issue with hotels.

“There’s a lot of bad things that can happen there,” Wagner said.

Hotel residents are emotionally, physically and financially vulnerable.

Mobley described a situation in which a man insinuated himself into a single-parent family living in a hotel. He presented himself to the school as the children’s father. The children reported to the school that their mom cried every night, and they needed help. Eventually, the family just disappeared.

“Human trafficking is rampant in hotels,” Mobley said.

Foehlinger’s housing struggles now seem like a bad but vivid dream. With the help of a local church, he emerged from hidden homelessness and rents a nice home, with homemade pickles on the shelf, full cupboards and a comfy living room where his 4-year-old daughter napped.

“Sometimes, people become homeless because they choose to want to live like that,” Foehlinger said. “And there are people out there, that are the best people in the world, and they just have dumb luck, things happen. And almost everything they tried, they still get shot down at every angle.”

Next Steps

To learn more about the organizations in this story, visit:

New Hope Ministries, nhm-pa.org
Family Promise of Harrisburg Capital Region, familypromisehcr.og
Christian Churches United of the Tri-County Area, ccuhbg.org
Fishing Creek Salem UMC, fcsalemorg
Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church, Highspire, www.renewedingracecoop.org/pages/st-peters-highspire

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