Tuck In: Healthy foods are in flavor at Tucker&Co.

April 27, 2023 | by Julia Mary Register

Heidi Tucker baking scones.Photos courtesy of Annie Minicuci Photography.

Banana chocolate chip muffins, chicken and goat cheese paninis, orange peach smoothies—all are common café menu options.

But at Tucker&Co. Bakery Cafe, the latest place to grab a bite in downtown Dillsburg, there’s a special twist.

All of their items are gluten- and refined sugar-free, from their chocolate chip scones to their homemade coffee syrups. In a town full of pizzerias, this bakery café offers a healthier alternative for patrons.

Since opening in December, owners Heidi and Isaac Tucker have been living out their mission to serve the community food that’s both “nutritious and delicious.”

Move Back

Heidi has struggled with digestive issues since college, and, in 2018, she started experimenting with alternative baking ingredients.

Choosing gluten-free flours and natural sweeteners such as coconut sugar and honey, she created Tucker&Co. as a safe place for those with dietary restrictions.

“We do joke sometimes that the only reason we opened a café was because I wanted a place I could go and have breakfast,” Heidi added.

“A lot of people, when they make a business, it’s usually the thing that they don’t have,” added Jane Tucker, the couple’s 9-year-old daughter, who helps out around the bakery.

Located in the heart of downtown Dillsburg, Tucker&Co. can be found in a renovated, early 20th-century home previously owned by local Jane Alexander, who used the space as her law office. Now known as the “Alexander House,” the bakery café features an original wooden staircase and outdoor mural by Amie Bantz, warmly inviting those wandering by to come in and sit awhile.

As Dillsburg natives and Northern alumni, the Tuckers are familiar with what the area has—and doesn’t have. After graduating from Messiah College in 2009 and briefly moving to Franklin, Tenn., the couple returned inspired by the vitality of small-town Franklin, with hopes to spark the same abundance in their hometown.

“We came back to Dillsburg because we knew we wanted to make the town cool and be a place where we’d want our friends to move back to,” Isaac said.

And the Tuckers are doing more than just selling baked goods.

“We’re trying to help build up the local food economy and support other small business owners,” Heidi said, referring to their retail section where people can purchase local produce, Pennsylvania maple syrup and honey and farm fresh eggs.

They’re also invested in helping the community and, on multiple occasions, have partnered with the Polar Bear Foundation, the nonprofit educational foundation for Northern York County School District, by providing food and space for their events.

“They work incredibly hard, and they work with their hearts,” said Elizabeth Ayers, board member and incoming president of the Polar Bear Foundation. “They want to provide good, healthy food for people, and they want to provide a place for the community to be together.”

Community & Customers

The vision for Tucker&Co. wasn’t always a brick-and-mortar bakery. Their brand began as an event planning company before transitioning to selling baked goods at local farmers markets. Eventually, they developed their own granola line before opening their café.

And now the Tuckers are going back to their roots and making it a point to hold monthly events for the community with open mics, concerts and sold-out trivia nights.

Since February, they’ve held “Tucker Talks” (a play on “Ted Talks”) with new guest speakers and themes each month, such as the foster care system and sustainable farming.

“They’re a free educational thing for our community and to give people a place to share about subjects they’re experts in or passionate about,” Heidi said.

The Tuckers are dreamers and are constantly thinking of new ways to improve Dillsburg. With visions of bookstores and goat farms, they’re looking to partner with like-minded locals to make their goals a reality.

“We cannot do all the good we hope to do with our company without the support of our community and customers,” Heidi said.

Tucker&Co. is located at 148 S. Baltimore St., Dillsburg. For more information, visit www.tuckercobakery.com.

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Happenings: Our May Calendar of Events

April 27, 2023 | by Missy Smith

Museums & Art Spaces

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

“The Liberty Car: Great War Cadillac US1257X,” through summer 2023

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

“The Eppleman Collection—A Triano Family Gift,” through June 22; reception: May 19, 5-8 p.m.

“Correlated Cultivations,” a three-artist invitational guest that features the work of Young Won, Earle Rock and Marina Radanovic, through June 22; reception: May 19, 5-8 p.m.

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

Paintings by Irene Appleyard, through May 28

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

“Flavors of Here,” a CALC Collaborative exhibition created by students in Artworks, through May 27

Susquehanna Valley Plein Air Painters, through May 27

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

May artist: Connie Betz

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

Susquehanna Valley Chapter of the PA Guild of Craftsmen, through May 20

MJ Lauder’s Stained Glass On The Porch, May 6, 9 a.m.-3 p.m.

Delana Grey-Tuttle On The Porch, May 20, 10 a.m.-2 p.m.

MAAA Past Scholarship Recipients Show, May 24-June 24; opening reception: May 28, 3-5 p.m.

Hershey Area Art Association (HAAA)
hersheyareaartassociation.com

HAAA Rotation at The Cocoa Beanery, through May 8

Backstage at the Allen Theater, through May 31

HAAA Rotation Exhibit Galleries, through June 10

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

“Traveling While Black,” through May 8

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

Juried Student Art Exhibition, May 8–Aug. 24; award ceremony and reception: Aug. 24, 4 p.m.

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

New works by Millworks studio artists

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

“Art in the Stacks” featuring fine art photographer Eva Seraphine, May 1-31

Susquehanna Chapter of the Embroiderer’s Guild of America, May 1-31

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

Exhibits dedicated to Pennsylvania firefighting history

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

“Director’s Choice,” a selection of noteworthy student artwork from Youth Art Day 2023, through May 6

“Stillness & Motion,” a solo exhibition by Louise Thomas, through June 24

Rose Lehrman Art Gallery
One HACC Drive, Harrisburg
717-780-2435; hacc.edu

Student Honors Show, through May 5

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

“Game Changers: Pennsylvania Women Who Made History,” celebrating women from across the state, detailing their challenges and contributions

“A Flair for Public Service—Genevieve Blatt and C. DeLores Tucker”

2023 South Central Pennsylvania Scholastic Art Awards, through May 7

“HORSE2AUTO—A Transportation Revolution,” through 2023.

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

“Layered Artifacts,” featuring a range of abstract and non-representational works by Brian Truesdale, through May 7

“Intent/Content—Celebrating Women Artists,” highlighting women artists following in the footsteps of pioneers and bringing previously unheard artistic voices into the mainstream, through May 21

“Valery Sutherland—Paintings,” with works completed between 2021 and 2023, illustrating the artist’s investigation into the passage of time and its reflection on nature, through June 18

“Ju Yun—Hybrid Identity,” featuring vibrant mixed media pieces that take inspiration from the popular culture found in both Korea and the United States, through June 25

“The Creatures Collages” series is the visual component of a collaboration between visual artist Dan Zdilla and composer Rusty Banks, through June 25

“The Hidden Museum, 2018,” installation in which viewers are challenged to locate “hidden” works of art, through Dec. 31

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

Studio Art Thesis, through May 15

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

Senior Studio Majors, through May 21

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

“These Two Hands,” the ceramic art of Shawna Rene, through May 20

Read, Make, Learn

Blair Music Center, Lutz Recital Hall
Lebanon Valley College
101 College Ave., Annville
717-233-8668; lvc.edu

May 2: Jazz Masterclass with John Daversa, 11 a.m.

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

May 1-22: Monday Art Club, Mondays (grades K-2), 3:45-5 p.m.
May 2-23: Intermediate/Advanced Painting (ages 16-adult), Tuesdays, 1-3:30 p.m.
May 2-23: Beginning Oil Painting—Heron by the Sea, 10 a.m.-12 p.m. or 6-8 p.m.
May 5-26: Friday Art Club, Fridays (grades 3-5), 3:45-5 p.m.
May 6: Art Together 1-Day Workshop (ages 6-adult), 11 a.m.-1 p.m.
May 8-June 12: Monday Wheel Throwing 101, Mondays, 6-8 p.m.
May 9-June 13: Fundamentals of Photography (ages 18-adult), Tuesdays, 6:30-8 p.m.
May 13: Make a Succulent Planter (ages 5-12), 10:30 a.m.-12 p.m.
May 13: Copper Enameling Workshop (ages 13-adult), 11 a.m.-1 p.m.
May 17: Photoshop for Photographers (ages 18-adult), Wednesdays, 6:30-8 p.m.
May 20-June 10: Figure Drawing (ages 17-adult), Saturdays, 2-5 p.m.
May 21: Plein Air Painting at Allenberry, 9 a.m.-3 p.m.
May 22: Suicide Loss Survivors, 5:30-7 p.m.

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

May 19: Detoxifying Menu, 6-8:30 p.m.

Dauphin County Library System
dcls.org

May 10: Spanish Language Conversation Group on Zoom (ages 15 and older), 6-7 p.m.
May 13: Reading the Rainbow Book Club at Elementary Coffee, 11 a.m.-12 p.m.

Johnson Memorial Library
799 E. Center St., Millersburg
717-692-2658; dcls.org

May 11: Internet Fundamentals, 5:30-7 p.m.

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

May 1, 15: Paws 2 Read (ages 6-11), 6-7:30 p.m.
May 2: Retiring in Uncertain Times, 6-7 p.m.
May 6: Mindfulness and Yoga Workshop: What is Your Mind Full of?, 10:30-11:30 a.m.
May 10: Let’s Discover Art (ages 8-13), 5-6 p.m.
May 14: Sip & Speak, 12-1:30 p.m. (ages 18 and older)

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

May 4, 11, 18, 25: Fiber Artists, 3-5 p.m.
May 4, 11, 18, 25: Knitter’s Group, 5-7 p.m.
May 6: Knitter’s Group, 10 a.m.-2 p.m.
May 13: Fiber Artists, 10 a.m.- 2 p.m.
May 16: Musik Time, 10:30 a.m.-11:30 a.m.
May 20: Dog Tales, 10:30-11:30 a.m.

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

May 2: Historical Tree Walk, 2:30-4:30 p.m.
May 13: Kids Discover—Creek Critters (ages 5-10), 4-5:30 p.m.
May 21: Home Skills from History, 1-3 p.m.
May 21: Mrs. Reily’s Tea—Exploring the Wyeth Dynasty, 1-3:30 p.m.

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

May 1: Roots & Shoots Program, 6-7 p.m.
May 1, 8, 15, 22: Book Explorers (ages 3-6), 5:30 p.m.
May 1, 15: Frederickson Writes on Zoom, 6:45-8:45 p.m.
May 2: Curl up with the Classics—“Light in August” 10-11 a.m.
May 2, 9, 16, 23: Natalie D. Crauer Writer’s Workshop, 6:30-8:30 p.m.
May 2, 16: READ to Dogs, 6:30-8 p.m.
May 3: Moving Forward Book Group w/ Hospice of Central PA, 1-2 p.m.
May 3: Teen STEAM Meetup, 4-5:30 p.m.
May 3: Teen STEAM Meetup, 5-6 p.m.
May 3, 10, 17, 24: Spring Children’s Story Time, 11-11:30 a.m.
May 4: Tween Epic Comic Club, 6-7 p.m.
May 4, 11, 18, 25: Language at the Library—Spanish, 10-11 a.m.
May 4, 11, 18, 25: Meditation to Calm the Mind, 12-12:30 p.m.
May 5: Chess Club, 6:30 p.m.
May 5: Peaceful Poses Adult Yoga, 9-9:45 a.m.
May 5: Peaceful Poses Yoga Storytime, 10-10:45 a.m.
May 9: Managing Time in a 24/7 World, 10:30-11 a.m.
May 11: Book Keepers Teen Book Club on Zoom (ages 15-18), 6-8 p.m.
May 11, 18 : Meet and Greet Library Pups, 10-11 a.m.
May 17: Computer Basics, 11 a.m.-12 p.m.
May 17: Embroidery Workshop, 1-3:30 p.m.
May 17: Tween STEAM Meetup, 5-5:45 p.m.
May 19: Family Paint & Pix!, 6 p.m.
May 20: Tween LEGO Club, 6-7:30 p.m.
May 23: Attitude is Everything!, 10:30-11:30 a.m.
May 23: Genealogy Club, 11 a.m.-12 p.m.

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

May 4: Mini Trio on Wood, 6-8 p.m.
May 13: Wire Bonsai Tree w/Mark Golomb, 11 a.m.-2 p.m.
May 20: Decoupage w/Kathy Cook, 1-4 p.m.
May 26: Patriotic Painting w/Chris Pettman, 6- 8 p.m.

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

May 9: Improv for TV & Film, 7-9 p.m.
May 10: Fix it or Make It Worse, 7-9 p.m.
May 18-July 6: Level 1—Intro to Improv, Thursdays, 7-10 p.m.

Hershey Area Art Association (HAAA)
hersheyart.org

May 2-June 6: Painting with Oil and Acrylics, Tuesdays, 10 a.m.-1 p.m.
May 4-June 8: Water Media, Thursdays, 10 a.m.-1 p.m.

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

May 1, 8, 15: Books and Babies, 10:15 a.m.
May 2, 4, 9, 11, 16, 18, 23, 25, 30: Penn State Hershey—Mothers & Babies, 10:15 a.m.
May 2, 9, 16: 1, 2, Whee!, 10:15 a.m.
May 2, 9 25: Girls Who Code, 6 p.m.
May 3: LEGO Club, 4 p.m.
May 4, 11, 18: Storytime for Everyone, 10:15 a.m.
May 4, 18: Hershey Quilters, 12:30 p.m.
May 6, 13: Chess Club, 1 p.m.
May 9: Philosophers’ Round Table Discussion Group, 2 p.m.
May 9, 23: Silent Book Group at Starbucks in Hershey Towne Square, 10-11:30 a.m.
May 10: Artisan Wednesday—Make Your Own Journal, 3 p.m.
May 15: Movie Monday—“Princess Bride,” 3 p.m.
May 20: Cocoa Area Fiber Enthusiasts, 10 a.m.
May 22: Adult LEGO Club @ Troegs, 6:30 p.m

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

May 1, 3, 8, 10, 15, 17, 22, 24, 31: Rhyme Time (18 months and older), 10:15-10:35 a.m.
May 1, 3, 8, 10, 15, 17, 22, 24, 31: Toddler Time (18 months-3 years), 10:45-11:05 a.m.
May 1, 8, 15, 22: Storybook STEAM, 6-7 p.m.
May 2: Kindergarten Readiness, 1 p.m.
May 2: Kindergarten Readiness, 6 p.m.
May 2: Teen Tuesday, 6-8:30 p.m.
May 2, 9, 16, 23, 30: Tea & Stitches, 10 a.m.
May 4, 11: Beginning Mah Jongg, 10 a.m.-1 p.m.
May 4, 11, 18, 25: Mah Jongg, 10 a.m.-1 p.m.
May 5, 12, 19, 26: LEGO Time, 10:15-11:15 a.m.
May 8: English Conversation Club, 6:30-7:30 p.m.
May 9: Tween Scene, 6-7 p.m.
May 10: Mad About Mysteries, 7-8 p.m.
May 13, 27: Block Party, 10:30-11:30 a.m.
May 13, 27: Puzzle Party, 11:35 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
May 15: Monday Night Book Club, 7 p.m.
May 18: Thursday Morning Book Club, 10-11 a.m.
May 18: Teen Third Thursday, 6 p.m.
May 20: Discovery Club, 10:30-11:15 a.m.
May 20: Adventure Club, 11:30 am.-12:15 p.m.
May 20: Teen Squad Meeting, 3-4 p.m.
May 23: Tea & Stitches Extended Edition, 12-3 p.m.
May 23: Tabletop Game Night, 6-8 p.m.
May 25: STEAM Club (grades 1-2), 6 p.m.
May 25: STEAM Club (grades 3-5), 6 p.m.
May 27: Trivia at Home—2022 in Review, 6-8 p.m.

Kline Library
530 S. 29th St., Harrisburg
717-234-3934; dcls.org

May 10, 24: Paws 2 Read, 5-6 p.m.

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

May 3, 10, 17, 24, 31: Common Roads (ages 12-17), 6-8 p.m.
May 6, 13, 20, 27: Passageways, 2 p.m.
May 7, 14, 21, 28: Young Adult Group, 4 p.m.
May 13: QTPOC Advisory Group, 6-8 p.m.

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

May 8: Mindfulness and Yoga Workshop: What is Your Mind Full of?, 5-6 p.m.
May 11: STEM Technology Open House, 4-6 p.m.
May 19: STEAM Open Play Night, 5:30-7:30 p.m.
May 25: Let’s Build STEAM, 5-6 p.m.

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

May 1, 8, 15, 22, 29: Teen STEM Club, 5:30-6:30 p.m.
May 1, 8, 15, 22, 29: STEM Club, 6:30-7:30 p.m.
May 2, 9, 16, 23, 30: Storytime and Craft, 10:30-11:30 a.m.
May 2, 9, 16, 23, 30: Tales with T.A.I.L.S., 6-7 p.m.
May 4: Book Club, 6-7 p.m.
May 4, 11, 18, 25: LEGO Club, 6:30-7:30 p.m.
May 5, 12, 19, 26: Online Science Fiction Book Club
May 5, 12, 19, 26: Star Trek Rewatch online group
May 15: Mystery Book Club, 6-7 p.m.

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

May 9: An Evening with Brianna Wiest and Bianca Sparacino, 7-8 p.m.
May 10: Afternoon Tea with Patti Callahan Henry and Amy Jo Burns, 1-2 p.m.
May 12: Julia Quinn with Amanda Matta, 7-8 p.m.
May 19: An Evening with Wajahat Ali, 7-8 p.m.
May 23: An Evening with Jonathan Eig and Drew Hart, 7-8 p.m.
May 25: An Evening with Jeff Shaara, 7-8 p.m.

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

May 6: First Saturday, 2-5 p.m.
May 7: Herbal Medicine Making, 9 a.m.-3 p.m.
May 13: Fluid Art, 12-3 p.m.

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

May 6: 2023 Lessons in History Presentation with David O. Stewart, 1-2 p.m.

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

May 6: Spring Bird Walk, 7:30 a.m.-12 p.m.

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

May 1, 8, 15, 22: Storytime & More (ages 2-5), 10:30 a.m.
May 1, 15: Monday Great Books Discussion Group, 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
May 1-31: Beanstack Reading Challenge—May Mindfulness (ages 0-18)
May 1-31: Foodways—A Cookbook Challenge
May 2, 9, 16, 23, 30: Book Babies (ages 0-2), 11:15 a.m.
May 3: Musical Mornings (ages 2-5), 10:30-11 a.m.
May 4: Ruth’s Mystery Discussion Group, 10:15 a.m.-12 p.m.
May 5, 19: Movers & Groovers (ages 2-5), 10:30-11 a.m.
May 6: Spring Yoga for Kids (ages 3 and older), 10:30-11:15 a.m.
May 6, 20: New Cumberland Public Library Book Sales, 9 a.m.-3 p.m.
May 9: Book Review Program, 10:30-11:30 a.m.
May 9: Tales for Tails (ages 6-12), 6:30-7:30 p.m.
May 10: Mom & Me Paint Party (ages 6 and older), 6-7 p.m.
May 10, 24: Wednesday Great Books Discussion Group, 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
May 11, 25: Block Party! (ages 0-3), 10:30-11:30 a.m.
May 12, 26: Dungeons & Dragons (ages 13-17), 4-6 p.m.
May 17: Kid Builders (ages 3 and older), 5:30-6:30 p.m.
May 20: Couponing for Extreme Savings, 11 a.m.-12 p.m.
May 20: Children’s Book Writers Critique Group, 2-4 p.m.
May 23: Strawberry DNA (ages 7-12), 6-7 p.m.
May 24: PennWriters Writing Group, 6-9 p.m.

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

May 7: Paint and Sip, 3-5 p.m.

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

May 10: Foundations of Drawing, 7-9 p.m.
May 13: Kid’s Art Club—Unique Surfaces (ages 6-10), 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
May 27: Kid’s Art Club—3D Paintings (ages 7-12), 10 a.m.-12:30 p.m.

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

May 2: Arts in Education virtual workshop, 6-8 p.m.

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

May 12: Macramé Wall Plant Hanger, 6 p.m.
May 13: Second Saturday Workshops and Artist Demonstrations, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
May 20: Susquehanna Clay Club “Got Pots?” Seconds Sale fundraiser for NCECA
May 26: BYOB Paint Party w/Linda Shuey, May Flowers

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

May 3: Bird Walk—Peak Migration, 7:30-9:30 a.m.
May 4: Spring Flower Walk at Detweiler Park, 2:30-4 p.m.
May 5: Bird Walk at Detweiler Park, 2:30-4 p.m.
May 6: Penn State Extension Master Gardeners’ Home Gardening Series—Spotted Lanternfly, 9:30-11 a.m.
May 9: Wild Recipes—Spring Foraging in Your Backyard, 6-7:30 p.m.
May 13: Wild About Dogs!, 10 a.m.-2 p.m.
May 18: Redesigned Barn Shutter Workshop, 6-7:30 p.m.
May 20: Girl Scouts—Outdoor Art-Maker, Creator, Apprentice, Explore & Expert Badge, 10 a.m.-2 p.m.
May 22: Spring Tree ID at Wildwood Park, 10-11:30 a.m.

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

May 20: Crafternoon, 11 a.m.-1 p.m.

Live Music

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

May 6: Tommy James & The Shondells with The Box Tops
May 7: Amy Grant
May 12: Dylan Scott
May 18: Ashley McBryde, Harper O’Neill
May 19: Ricky Skaggs, Kentucky Thunder
May 20: The Guess Who
May 21: David Foster & Katharine McPhee
May 24: Cheap Trick
May 27: Michael W. Smith

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

May 5: Jazz in the City
May 8: Martin Sexton, KT Tunstall
May 20: York Symphony—Puccini & Pictures

Blair Music Center, Lutz Recital Hall
Lebanon Valley College
101 College Ave., Annville
717-233-8668; lvc.edu

May 2: John Daversa
May 3: Piano Ensemble
May 4: Handbell Concert
May 5: Faculty Jazz Concert with Guest Artist John Daversa

Central PA Friends of Jazz
www.friendsofjazz.org

May 21: Vanisha Gould Trio

Central Pennsylvania Womyn’s Chorus
cpwchorus.org

May 7: Concert at St. John’s Episcopal Church in Carlisle

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

May 5: Damn the Torpedoes—A Tribute to Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers
May 12: Right Now—A Celebration of Hagar-Era Van Halen
May 26: Sugar Mountain

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

May 5: Tim Colgan
May 6: North Mountain Ramblers
May 12: Keara Rose
May 13: Curtis Smith
May 19: Jason Carst
May 20: Soc Duo
May 26: Tony Catalano
May 27: Zach Nyce

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

May 4: Moon Hooch
May 6: The Emo Night Tour
May 7: Puddles Pity Party
May 11: Outline in Color
May 12: Kreator & Sepultura
May 12: Ceramic Animal
May 13: The Menzingers
May 17: Like Pacific
May 19: Shrek Rave
May 20: Hunter Hayes
May 23: Bloodywood
May 26: Meet Me @ The Altar
May 26: Michigander
May 27: V TEN
May 30: Michigan Rattlers

Harrisburg Maennerchor
221 North St., Harrisburg
hbgmaennerchor.com

May 20: Calling Hours, Shades Apart, Social Pressure

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

May 6-7: The Force of Destiny
May 14: Mother’s Day Concert

Harrisburg University Presents
concertseries.harrisburgu.edu

May 3: Half Alive, Tessa Violet at XL Live
May 4: Sueco, Teenage Disaster at XL Live
May 6: Rick Ross at XL Live
May 9: Frank Turner, Lauren Jane Grace, Kayleigh Goldsworthy at XL Live
May 13: Muna, Nova Twins at XL Live
May 24: Waterparks at XL Live

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

May 26: Daryl Hall w/Todd Rundgren
May 28: Boz Scaggs

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

May 6: Concert at Good Shepherd Lutheran Church

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

May 9: The Ukulele Orchestra of Great Britain

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

May 14: Susquehanna Chorale Spring Concert

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

May 13: Swearingen & Kelli—Music of Simon & Garfunkel

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

May 18: Coffeehouse Open Mic at The Winery at Hunters Valley
May 20: MOEJOE

Pine Street Presbyterian Church
310 N. 3rd St., Harrisburg
pinestreet.org

May 7: Brandon Cedel

Susquehanna Chorale
One College Ave., Mechanicsburg
717-533-7859; susquehannachorale.org

May 12: Concert at Derry Presbyterian Church, Hershey
May 13: Concert at Market Square Presbyterian Church, Harrisburg
May 14: Concert at Calvin and Janet High Center for Worship and Performing Arts (Parmer Hall), Messiah University, Mechanicsburg

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

May 14: May Jam & Song Swap
May 18: Cristina Vane, Zach King

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

May 5: Big Fat Meanies
May 7: Galactic Empire
May 9: Harrisburg Jazz Collective
May 12: The Uptown Band
May 13: The Martini Bros.
May 20: Rascal Revival, Dan Jamison, Joe Cigan

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

May 3: Half Alive, Tessa Violet
May 4: Sueco, Teenage Disaster
May 5: Lotus
May 6: Rick Ross
May 9: Frank Turner, Lauren Jane Grace, Kayleigh Goldsworthy
May 12: The Amish Outlaws
May 13: Muna, Nova Twins
May 19: Almost Queen
May 24: Waterparks at XL Live
May 25: Neal Francis

The Stage Door

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

May 5: “Madagascar The Musical”
May 9: Sam Morril
May 12: Ellen Karis, Stephen Steele
May 20: Earl David Reed, Michael Anthony Davis
May 31: Edward Twins present The Ultimate Variety Show

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

May 12-21: “Holes”

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

May 2-20: “Footloose the Musical”
May 26-June 24: “Elvis—A Musical Revolution”

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

May 4-6: “HairStory—Reclaiming Our Crown”
May 6-13: “Rollicking Ripsnorters—American Tall Tales” w/Popcorn Hat Players
May 19-21: “Dreadful Marches to Delightful Measures—A Staged Reading of Shakespeare’s Wars of the Roses”

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

May 5-7: “The Secret Garden”
May 19-21: “The Iliad, The Odyssey, and All of Greek Mythology in 99 Minutes or Less”

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

May 5: Divas Down Under present “Queens of the Night” Cinco de Mayo Drag Show
May 5, 6: Davin Rosenblatt and Rick Allen
May 12, 13: Raymond the Amish Comic
May 19, 20: Keith Purnell and Rachel Williams
May 26, 27: Joey Callahan and Billy Chiang

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

May 5: Free Improv Jam, Hoagie’s Heroes, Ham Juice, Frankenstein’s Monster!, Bandito
May 6: Kid Friendly Mixer, Solo Sleepover, Baby, Love Triangle, Barn Bitches, Uncomfortable, Tiny Town
May 7: Kidprov Class Show, Kidprov Class Show
May 12: Free Improv Jam, Is That Beef? , Team Z, Leg of Lamp, Phil’s Arcade, Holding Hands w/ John and Tyler: A Late Show w/ John and Tyler
May 13: Level 3 Class Show, This Show Will Self Destruct, Mary Todd Lincoln—The Real Babe-raham Lincoln, Barbra, Tiny French Cigarettes
May 19: Hoagie’s Heroes, Ham Juice, Cosmic Trash, The Bondfire Society
May 20: Free Mixer, Baby, Sunday School, Rockstar Goes Supernova, JODY, Barn Bitches Presents The Haircut
May 21: Level 3 Class Show
May 26: Level 1 Class Show, Level 2 Class Show, Is That Beef?, Team Z, Midtown Funk, Merely Players
May 27: Free Mixer, Dark Horse, Original Six, Elderprov
May 28: Level 1 Class Show, Level 2 Class Show

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

May 25-June 5: “Bandstand”

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

May 20: Hershey School of Dance
May 21: Hershey Theatre Apollo Awards

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

May 5-7: “Cinderella”

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

May 20-June 4: “Come Blow Your Horn”

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

May 27: Pennsylvania Regional Ballet

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

May 4-7: “Tiny Beautiful Things”
May 10, 24: Black NewsBeat w/Dr. Kimeka Campbell
May 19: EFF Live!
May 27-June 17: “Poirot Investigates!”

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

May 5-12: Lady Windermere’s Fan

Theatre Harrisburg
513 Hurlock St., Harrisburg
717-232-5501; theatreharrisburg.com

May 5-14: “Sideshow” at Whitaker Center

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

May 5: We the People First Friday—“Acts of Welcome”

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

May 11: A Night of Improv w/Susan Messing and John Lehr

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

May 5-14: Theatre Harrisburg presents “Sideshow”

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

Musical Notes: Marvelous May

April 27, 2023 | by Belle Frank

I love seeing the array of artists who visit the Harrisburg area every month. We get to experience small, intimate settings with independent singers, but also larger stadiums with decades-established bands. Since moving here almost a year ago, I feel that Harrisburg has opened my eyes and ears to so many new artists and even some who have been in the industry for longer than I’ve been alive. It’s incredible that we get to witness such talented artists right here, so close to home. This month, there are plenty of bands and artists to experience live.

Moon Hooch, 5/4, H*MAC, 6 p.m.

Brooklyn natives Michael Wilbur, Wenzl McGowen and Cyzon Griffin were no strangers to playing their tunes in subway stations. Now, they have graduated from busking to playing larger venues. When Moon Hooch first started out, they were completely acoustic, with just two saxophones and a drum. These days, they’ve added electronic and found sounds into their songs. The futuristic jazz music has a way of transforming your mood completely, like their song, “8-bit,” my personal favorite.

Hunter Hayes, 5/20, H*MAC, 7 p.m.

Hunter Hayes’ love for music started early in his life, and it’s apparent in his ability to play over 30 instruments. He started his performance career when he was just 2 years old and, at the age of 4, began appearing on national TV to sing. His popularity in the industry climbed in 2011 when he performed as an opening act for Taylor Swift on her “Speak Now” tour. Later that year, Hayes released his self-titled album, on which he co-wrote every song and played every instrument. Hayes’ most popular song, “Wanted,” rose to No. 1 on the “hot country” songs chart. The platinum-selling artist released his latest album in March 2023 with a sound reminiscent of his early music career.

Blink-182 5/27, Hersheypark Stadium, 7:30 p.m.

Some of us never grew out of our “emo-phase” of applying too much eyeliner and listening to classic pop-punk bands. Although I have lightened up on the eyeliner over the years, I definitely haven’t quit listening to pop-punk. And let’s be honest, Blink-182 is a classic. Their fame was solidified in the mainstream industry in 1999 after the release of their album, “Enema of the State.” Three songs from that album, “All The Small Things,” “Adam’s Song” and “What’s My Age Again?” became wildly popular and started playing on the radio. Blink-182 released their most recent song in October 2022, and if you had told me it was off of their first album, I would’ve believed you. Although the band has gone through changes through the decades, they have stayed consistent and true to their sound.

Mentionables

Half Alive, May 3, XL Live
Rick Ross, May 6, XL Live
Ill Niño, May 9, Lovedraft’s Brewing Co.
Frank Turner & the Sleeping Souls, May 9, XL Live
The Menzingers, May 13, H*MAC
Michigander, May 26, H*MAC

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

Kitchen Tips: Rosemary shares what she’s learned along the way

April 27, 2023 | by Rosemary Ruggieri Baer

I have been cooking for almost 54 years of married life. I come from a family that treasured good food, mostly Italian.

It is true, as my husband often jokes, that my mother and her sisters barely finished one meal before they began talking about what they were going to make for the next. To this day, I have never heard of a person other than my mother who purchased an entire bushel basket of cantaloupes, then asked in all sincerity, “Say, who’s going to eat all these?” And we still laugh at my mother’s earnest statement that, while she didn’t need anything at the grocery store, she wouldn’t mind going to browse.

So, I guess I am a legitimate “foodie.” Italian food has always been my favorite, but, every so often, I try my hand at making food from different cuisines. I still look at contemporary cooking magazines, as I always have, but honestly, I often don’t know what some of the ingredients are. I’m still trying to find a use for a bottle of gochujang I bought because Bobby Flay thought I should have it.

I love cooking and do so almost every day except once a week when we head downtown for “date night.” I’ve learned a lot and thought that this month I’d share a few things acquired along the way. But please know, these are just my thoughts, and you may not agree at all. Here we go.

Meatballs

Of all Italian foods, meatballs are nearest and dearest to my heart. When my mother made them, she bought a big chuck roast, had the butcher cut off all the fat and “grind it twice” (I don’t know). I have made peace with using the “meatloaf mix” I buy at my favorite butcher at the farmers market. It is a mixture of beef, pork and veal, has good flavor, and results in a moist meatball. Forget about using very lean ground round. I know it is likely a healthier choice, but you will end up with hockey pucks. And while we are discussing meatballs—I know the big box stores carry bags of pre-made meatballs. Don’t do it. Throw some bacon into your pasta instead. Or tuna.

Cooking Meatballs

Now it’s time to cook them. The latest “thing” is to bake meatballs in the oven. My best friend who lived in Italy is doing it and so is Ina Garten, the “Barefoot Contessa.” Some cooks believe cooking meatballs on sheet pans in the oven is less messy. I dislike cleaning sheet pans and absolutely love the smell of meatballs gently sautéing in olive oil in a skillet on the stove. It is a smell embedded in my childhood memories. My sons would stand on chairs next to their Grammy by the stove and taste the little samples she made and recommend more salt or cheese as needed before the whole batch was cooked. The olive oil splatters, and I clean it up.

Ricotta Cheese

I suppose we all love ricotta cheese for its very familiar role in classic tomato and cheese lasagna. But I learned over the years that there is the processed ricotta found in grocery stores in plastic containers and fresh ricotta found in specialty delis and Italian grocery stores. Fresh ricotta is often sold in large containers, piled high like big ice cream cones. The important thing for me is, “How wet is it?” If the ricotta seems very wet and, if you are going to use it for baking, like an Italian cheesecake, place it in a cheesecloth-lined colander over a bowl and refrigerate. Discard the liquid in the bowl. I have also learned that lasagna Bolognese has no ricotta at all and is so good. Remember ricotta is not the same as cottage cheese!

Parmesan Cheese

When buying cheese for grating, buy the real thing. No green containers in the grocery aisle. Real Parmesan Reggiano has little round pinholes in its rind, which are very distinctive. Professional chefs recommend buying a small wedge to keep in the fridge for grating. Some delis sell containers of pre-grated cheese, and I often cheat by buying that. Make sure you wrap the wedge of cheese well for storage in the refrigerator. I have been known to cut out little spots of mold and am still standing.

Romano Cheese

Pecorino Romano cheese is favored by many in Italian cooking. It differs from Parmesan in that it has a stronger flavor and is usually saltier. Every once in awhile, my mother would use it in her meatballs, and I could notice a distinctive flavor from those made with Parmesan. Some cooks prefer it over Parmesan, but the two cheeses, in my view, are not interchangeable. My 5-year-old grandson wouldn’t eat my Romano cheese meatballs one day, but then he doesn’t eat much of anything.

Entertaining

I love cooking for people. In my early days, I would spend days scouring cookbooks for special recipes and even more days preparing food for company. I since have learned a simple meal is best and appreciated just as much. In winter, a big pot of soup, a green salad, and good crusty bread is wonderful. In the summer, some nice steaks on the grill and a fresh corn salad are the best. The most important thing is sharing a meal with those you love. I made a tomato aspic for company once. It looked beautiful but nobody knew what it was. There was a lot left over.

I am running out of my allotted space and feel as if I’ve just begun. I could write and talk about food forever. Perhaps my editor will let me write a chapter two!

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

Stuffy Yet Silly: Settle in for campy fun as Open Stage presents an Agatha Christie classic

April 27, 2023 | by Sammi Leigh Melville

Photos from left: Rachel Landon as the Movie Star, Chris Gibson as Captain Hastings, Rachel Landon as the Femme Fatale, Stuart Landon as Inspector Japp, Rachel Landon as the Awkward Femme Fatale, Stuart Landon as Hercule Poirot.

Fun fact: it takes a novel 95 years from the date of publication to lose its copyright. Another fun fact: every year, countless great stories fall into the public domain because of this law, and sometimes we don’t even notice.

This applies even to stories by renowned authors like Agatha Christie. Her short story collection, “Poirot Investigates,” was published in 1924, which means that, at the height of the pandemic, many of Poirot’s escapades became fair game.

This was something that Stuart Landon, producing artistic director at Open Stage and long-time fan of Christie, could not let go to waste.

“I was like, ‘I get to adapt one of my favorite things, and play one of my favorite characters!’” he recalled.

He and the theater’s “disease cluster,” as he put it—a handful of Open Stage staff—were already planning several theater/film hybrids in the quarantine interim and decided to put on Poirot. Landon adapted the script. They set up some cameras, and, by the fall of 2020, Poirot was gracing Open Stage’s YouTube page.

“It was this tongue-in-cheek, ridiculous adaptation of some of [Christie’s] short stories, but made with all the love,” Landon said.

It was a great chance for people to be distracted from the global panic—and to laugh. Open Stage had done comedic shows before, but never something quite so farcical. But they had a blast with it.

“Some takes, I was barely keeping it together,” Landon said.

Of all the theater/film hybrids they made that year, Landon said that it felt the most like theater. Now, he wants to bring that farcical glory to the stage.

The chosen story is “Adventure of the Western Star,” one of the two classics that they filmed during quarantine. And naturally, all the familiar characters will be back: Poirot and Hastings, two highbrow, rich guys who are very entitled in the way they behave, and two other actors juggling the rest of the characters and supporting the storytelling.

One of the most outlandish characters from the story, Lady Yardley, has some hilarious moments, Landon recalled. I won’t relay them here because, well, the laughs she elicits are so much better in person.

This version will be different.

“It’s gonna be shorter, and it’s gonna be simpler,” Landon said. “We are building this specifically to bring to the Edinburgh Fringe Festival in 2024.”

But it will have that same silliness to it. The mystery almost feels secondary to the frivolity that plays out.

Landon is excited to see what the theatrical performance will look like. As he will be both directing and acting—a feat he’s never done before Poirot—he is a little nervous to see it all come together.

“But I also have a really great team with me,” he added

And that confidence, plus the security of a great story, will work to the team’s advantage.

And it really is a brilliant piece of theater. While we may not need as much of a distraction in 2023 as we did in 2020, Poirot and his high-camp, lowbrow cast of characters will bring just as much lighthearted joy as they did the first time around.

“I hope that the audience is able to just have a good belly laugh and take home a smile,” Landon said. “And have a damn good time while they’re here. I’m looking forward to that.”

“Poirot Investigates! The Adventure of the Western Star” runs May 27 to June 17 at Open Stage, 25 N. Court St., Harrisburg, Tickets can be bought at the box office or online at www.openstagehbg.com.

UPCOMING EVENTS

At Open Stage
www.openstagehbg.com
717-232-6736

“Tiny Beautiful Things”
A new play based on the Cheryl Strayed memoir
Now through May 7

Black NewsBeat with Dr. Kimeka Campbell
Join us in the studio audience for an episode taping.
May 10 and 24 at 7:30 p.m.
June 14 and 27 at 7:30 p.m.

EFF (Erotic Fan Fiction) Live!
Naughty readings of fanfics
Friday, May 19 at 7:30 p.m.

“Poirot Investigates! The Adventure of the Western Star”
A farcical adaptation of the Agatha Christie short story
May 27 to June 17

OSHKids Summer Theatre Camp
“The Wizard of Oz”
June 8 to 30

At Gamut Theatre
www.gamuttheatre.org
717-238-4111

Popcorn Hat Players
“Rollicking Ripsnorters: American Tall Tales”
May 6 & 13 at 1 p.m.

Stage Door Series
“Dreadful Marches to Delightful Measures: A Staged Reading of Shakespeare’s War of the Roses”
May 19 & 20 at 7:30 p.m.
May 21 at 2:30 p.m.

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

One Last Chance: A complex family dynamic plays out beautifully in “Monica”

April 27, 2023 | by Sammi Leigh Melville

Photo courtesy of IFC Films.

If you’re up for a film that tells as little as possible, but says so damn much, you might want to check out Andrea Pallaoro’s most recent film, “Monica.”

Pallaoro is insistent on creating portraits of women—his last feature was titled “Hannah”—and there will apparently be a third portrait that will fill out this loose trilogy. And “Monica” is a beautiful contribution. The film is seen from the perspective of its titular character, a woman who, years ago, was kicked out of her home by her mother for wanting to be who she was—a woman.

As trans stories go, this one feels different. Monica (Trace Lysette) learns that her mother’s (Patricia Clarkson) health is declining and is given the opportunity to travel home and see her one last time before her mind goes. She decides to go—a decision that does not immediately reveal its complexity. It takes a while for Monica’s troubled history with her mother to be brought up, and it is never stated outright that Monica is trans. Pallaoro drops context clues along the way that build her character, until a conversation with her brother (Joshua Close) tips the scales of understanding.

Monica’s fears are beautifully relayed by Pallaoro’s decision to trickle forth information. She is uncertain of what her mother’s reaction will be if she tells her who she is, and so she introduces herself as Monica and nothing more.

One might expect a film with a trans protagonist to focus on identity—the journey she took to let her true self come out, the conflict she met along the way. But Monica has had years to unwrap her identity, and, while we don’t know too much about what that past entails, we do know pretty immediately in the film. Pallaoro makes constant use of Monica’s cell phone to reveal what’s happening in her head—that her focus has turned to connection.

Here, we have a woman who chose to be herself at the loss of her family, and a woman who chose to side with her beliefs, also at the loss of her family. The film gives us very little information of either party’s life prior to this reunion, which may actually be a credit. It is less about making amends than it is about the time they have left.

“Monica” holds a particular power in the unspoken. While films that portray the clash of trans vs bigot, or the redemption of a parent who has come around, can be very cathartic, this film shows a different side of the coin, weaving in the tension of Monica’s uncertainty with her desire to be there with family. It is never confirmed that her mother knows who she is, and maybe she doesn’t. But there’s a whole lot of context that points to her knowing, making use of the time she has with her daughter.

Lysette and Clarkson’s delicately nuanced performances resonate powerfully on the screen together, and, for every delicate question that the film refuses to speak out loud, we find an answer in our own hearts as the film goes on.

Don’t miss your chance to see “Monica,” which plays at Midtown Cinema this month.

Midtown Cinema is located at 250 Reily St., Harrisburg. For more information, visit www.midtowncinema.com.

May Events At Midtown Cinema

Alfred Hitchcock: Master of Suspense Film Series

“The Birds” (1963)
Sunday, May 7 at 7:30 p.m.

“Psycho” (1960)
Sunday, May 14 at 7:30 p.m.
Friday, May 19 at 9:30 p.m.

“Rebecca” (1940)
Sunday, May 21 at 7:30 p.m.

Down in Front! comedy riffing presents

“Iced” (1989)
Friday, May 12 at 9:30ish

National Theatre Live presents

“The Crucible”
Sunday, May 14 at 5 p.m.

Moviate Film Festival
May 19 to 21

AAPI Festival presents
A free screening of
“Everything Everywhere All at Once”
Friday, May 19 at 9:30 p.m.

AAPI Festival presents
The documentary
“Feeling Asian”
Saturday, May 20 at 3 p.m.

National Theatre Live presents

“Best of Enemies”
Starring David Harewood and Zachary Quinto
Sunday, May 21 at 5 p.m.

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

Artists of Honor: This month, Harrisburg musicians, theater company will receive the prestigious Arts Awards

April 27, 2023 | by Barbara Trainin Blank

James Mitchell, Sydney Crutcher, Alana Davenport & Christopher Ellis. Photos courtesy of John Bivens Photography.

Artists and arts groups enrich the community year-round—and are appreciated year-round.

But this appreciation reaches an apex each May when one person and one organization receive a special recognition—the “Arts Awards.”

For 29 years, Theatre Harrisburg has bestowed this prestigious honor, whose official title is the Award for Distinguished Service to the Arts in the Capital Region.

This year, the individual award actually goes to a couple—Ya-Ting Chang and Peter Sirotin, musicians, music educators and arts administrators. Sankofa African American Theatre Company will receive the organization award.

Sirotin, a violinist, and Chang, a pianist, are co-directors of Market Square Concerts. In addition, Sirotin has been concertmaster of the Harrisburg Symphony Orchestra since 2011, and the pair co-founded the Mendelssohn Piano Trio.

Ya-Ting Chang and Peter Sirotin

Sirotin said that he and Chang were “humbled and touched” by the Arts Award.

“Our association with the Harrisburg arts community has grown steadily over the last 25 years because of the many brilliant, talented and supportive people who make artistic life in central PA so robust and interesting,” he said. “It has been an honor and a privilege to contribute to the vitality of the arts in this region.”

Sankofa was incorporated in 2017. Its mission is to engage and enrich the Harrisburg region around African American history, culture and perspective on relevant issues through thought-provoking theater.

Sharia Benn, president and artistic director of Sankofa, said that she experienced “a mix” of emotions upon hearing of the honor.

“At first, I was shocked because we’re a young, small, BIPOC, grass-roots theater organization that doesn’t fit the mold of the legacy arts organizations in this area,” she said. “But the same reasons that caused me to feel shocked were the ones that made me feel honored and proud to be recognized by our peers for the work we are doing to build a more equitable arts community in and out of the theater.”

History, Accomplishments

The awards are presented under the auspices of Theatre Harrisburg, one of the oldest arts organizations in Harrisburg. Each year, a selection committee composed of past honorees or their representatives suggests the next possible recipients, who are then voted on.

The awards are then presented at a grand gala, which uniquely includes tributes and a full stage production created and performed specifically for the honorees.

“They never know ahead of time what will happen on stage,” said Mike Greenwald, who helped establish the Arts Awards. Mark Lingenfelter, performer, director, choreographer, teaching artist and area native, is responsible for production and staging.

The recipients both have a rich history and many accomplishments to draw on.

Now entering its fifth decade, Market Square Concerts is older than many similar organizations in the country.

“Chamber music offers a uniquely intimate artistic experience, which is particularly nourishing to our spirits in the increasingly fractured and chaotic world,” Sirotin said. “We believe that listening to Schubert’s immortal ‘Death and the Maiden’ quartet can connect people from all demographics, socioeconomic and cultural backgrounds to their shared humanity on a deeper level than their differences.”

In addition to these “powerful and deeply enriching” musical experiences, the couple sees Market Square Concerts as “uniquely positioned for community and educational outreach.”

“From special educational presentations to homeschoolers and K-12 students, to masterclasses and lecture series at higher-ed institutions, we reach thousands of young people every year, and hope to continue expanding that role,” Sirotin said. “We also look forward to continuing our many collaborations with Whitaker Center, Harrisburg Symphony Orchestra and Gamut Theatre, among others.”

Sankofa’s origins date to 2015, when the founders of Open Stage of Harrisburg and actors from the cast of several August Wilson productions began dialogue about the need for a local theater presence in which actors of color could take ownership of their own stories.

According to Benn, Sankofa aims to highlight African American history and culture to drive positive change, equity and healing for artists and the community at large.

“Sankofa’s impact over the six years of its existence includes 15 productions and programs and over 10,000 participant touchpoints,” she said. “Sankofa is bringing diversity to local theater in a way that challenges audiences and artists to see and hear each other in a new way and gives space for civic dialogue.”

The Arts Awards gala takes place May 20, 5:30 to 9 p.m., at Whitaker Center, 222 Market St., Harrisburg. For reservations and sponsorships, visit www.theatreharrisburg.com/artsawards.

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

Birthday Bid: This month, the Harrisburg Bridge Club marks its diamond anniversary

April 27, 2023 | by Phyllis Zimmerman

Midge Sobolewski

For its many members, the Harrisburg Bridge Club is more than just a place for a card game.

“It’s not the club, it’s the people,” said 40-year member Pam Murray of Fairview Township. ”It’s more than just a club. We establish friendships here.”

In fact, Murray even met her second husband at the club, she said.

Member Karen Miovas described it as “a place of peace.”

“Despite the political tensions in the world and stress of the pandemic, for many, when they sit down to play bridge, they feel a sense of peace,” she said.

It’s that unity that has kept the Harrisburg Bridge Club operational since its founding by five friends in 1948. This month, the club, boasting 411 members, celebrates its 75th birthday with membership events at the club’s headquarters in Camp Hill.

Murray, who chairs the club’s 12-member anniversary committee, refers to the spacious, 5,000-square-foot Camp Hill facility, which opened in 2012, as “the house that friendship built.”

“Most (bridge club) places around the U.S. are proprietary, and the owners earn all the money,” Murray said. “We’re owned by our members, and our success or not success depends on members.”

The first tournament of the Harrisburg Bridge Club took place on March 29, 1948, at the city’s former William Penn Hotel. In 1951, the founders chartered the group as a nonprofit organization, and, three years later, members purchased a clubhouse on N. 21st Street in Camp Hill.

In ensuing years, members renovated the Camp Hill building, purchasing adjoining lots for expansion. In 1997, the club began raising money for construction of a new building. A trust fund was seeded, in part, by a $10,000 donation by the Kunkel Foundation, founded by late U.S. congressman and club member John C. Kunkel.

By the time construction began, the group had raised a total of $150,000, with members volunteering time and labor toward the project, according to member Robert Priest of Shipoke. The club’s new headquarters were dedicated on May 12, 2012.

Today, the facility hosts six to eight games, comprising various skill levels, per week and accommodates up to 40 player tables at once. The club also hosts a monthly brunch and bridge gathering for which rotating members provide food items.

A remaining $460,000 clubhouse mortgage was paid off in 2021 through membership activity, donations, and game fees. An eight-month run of exclusively virtual games, when the building was closed during the pandemic, was particularly fruitful.

“COVID let us run virtual games without the expense of running games in our building,” Priest said. “Online bridge is different than playing in person, though, because so much of playing bridge is based on body language.”

In July 2022, Harrisburg ranked 17th in the nation for the number of online games played. For in-person games, the group often ranks among the top-20 in the nation.

Although the Harrisburg Bridge Club welcomes new participants of all ages, many current members have reached a mature stage of life, according to club president Midge Sobolewski.

“We constantly have new members, but most are 50 or older,” she said. “We do have some younger people, but it is rare. There’s just so much else going on now and lots of other things for younger people to do these days.”

Older folks have plenty to gain from playing bridge, “one of the most challenging games there is,” Priest noted.

For one thing, the game is reputed to keep those aging cognitive functions sharp. Priest cited a Business Insider India article that stated, “Bridge is considered more of a strategic game than chess because unlike chess, bridge is a partnership game and depends considerably on the subtleties of communication.”

Priest said that the game also teaches beneficial skills for young adults “because it applies strategies, and you have to analyze people and situations.”

According to Sobolewski, there’s always something interesting going on at the Harrisburg Bridge Club.

For instance, registration fees collected from this month’s 75th anniversary celebration will benefit the Alzheimer’s Association’s “The Longest Day” fundraiser, as well as other club events to support other charities.

“Sometimes, we have meals, raise money for charity and have education classes for players,” Sobolewski said.

The Harrisburg Bridge Club’s 75th anniversary events take place May 18 to 21 at the club, 349 N. 21st St., Camp Hill. For more information, visit www.bridgewebs.com/harrisburg.

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Community Corner: Notable May Events

April 27, 2023 | by Missy Smith

Bike Harrisburg
May 1-29: For National Bike Month, Bike Harrisburg hosts a series of events, including Sunday Morning Sociable Rides, Capital Area Greenbelt Ride (May 7), Recycle Bicycle Fix-It (May 14), Ghost Bikes at the Capitol and International Ride of Silence (May 17) and the Seersucker & Lace Ride (May 21). www.bicyclesouthcentralpa.org

Girls who Code
May 2, 9: Hershey Public Library, 701 Cocoa Ave., Hershey, hosts Girls Who Code, a program for girls in grades 6 to 12 to use computer science to impact their community, 6 to 7:30 p.m. Girls will build skills in teamwork, confidence, communication and more. www.hersheylibrary.org

Flower Walk
May 4: Take a walk at Detweiler Park, 1451 Peters Mountain Rd., Dauphin, during Wildwood Park’s Spring Flower Walk, 2:30 to 4 p.m. Enjoy a leisurely afternoon walk in meadows and forests. www.explorewildwoodpark.org

Crescent Circus
May 4: Experience magic and share laughs in a performance of illusions and circus stunts with the Crescent Circus, hosted by Harrisburg Jewish Federation of Greater Harrisburg, 3301 N. Front St., Harrisburg, 6:30 p.m. www.jewishharrisburg.org

Clean-Up Event
May 5: Wildheart Ministries holds a Clean-Up Event at 333 S. 13th St., Harrisburg, during Business Day Out, 9 a.m. to 12 p.m., followed by lunch. Businesses, organizations and individuals are invited to help pick up trash or conduct basic landscaping. www.lovethehillpa.com

Choreopoem
May 5-7: Reclaim Artist Collective in partnership with the Harrisburg Chapter of The Links, Incorporated presents “HairStory—Reclaiming Our Crown,” a choreopoem—original theatrical production by poet/playwright Maria James-Thiaw at Gamut Theatre, 15 N. 4th St., Harrisburg. www.gamuttheatre.org

Plant Sale
May 6: Hershey Horticulture Society hosts its Annual Plant Sale, 7:30 to 11:30 a.m. at Brownstone Masonic Lodge, 215 W. Governor Rd., Hershey. www.hersheyhorticulture.com

Cherry Blossom Fest
May 6: The 34th annual Millersburg Cherry Blossom Festival will be held on the square in Millersburg, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., with family activities and entertainment, food and craft vendors and a car show. www.millersburgpa.org

Native Plant Sale
May 6: Manada Conservancy hosts its 23rd annual Native Plant Sale at East Hanover Township Nature Park, 328 N. Crawford Rd., Grantville, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., with plant vendors, art vendors and food trucks. Proceeds benefit Manada Conservancy’s mission of land preservation and education. www.manada.org

HBG Flea
May 6: Shop the HBG Flea for local art, vintage treasures, curated curios and unique gifts, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., at Midtown Cinema, 250 Reily St., Harrisburg. The mission of the HBG Flea is to create a platform for community growth by bringing artists, small businesses and patrons together. www.hbgflea.com

Colonial Festival
May 6: Friends of Fort Halifax Park will host the 17th Annual Colonial Fort Halifax Festival, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., at 570 N. River Rd., SR 147, Halifax. Admission and parking are free. www.forthalifaxpark.org

Greystone Derby
May 6: Veterans Outreach of Pennsylvania hosts the Greystone Derby Day Battle of the Roses at Greystone Brew House, 303 Golf Club Ave., Dillsburg, 2:30 to 7 p.m. The day will include a traditional Kentucky Derby menu, mint juleps, contests, silent auction and a showing of the 149th derby. www.veteransoutreachofpa.org

Bag Bingo
May 6: Harrisburg Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. and Delta Research and Education Foundation will host Designer Bag Bingo, 3 to 7 p.m., at I.W. Abel Hall, 200 Gibson St., Steelton. www.dstharrisburg.org

Derby Gala
May 6: Have a fun night out at the Art Association of Harrisburg’s Derby Day Gala at the Country Club of Harrisburg, 401 Fishing Creek Valley Rd, Harrisburg, 5 to 9 p.m. Enjoy live music, a gourmet dinner, silent auction, hat and costume competition and a viewing of the Kentucky Derby. www.artassocofhbg.com

2023 Lessons
May 6: National Civil War Museum, 1 Lincoln Circle, Harrisburg, hosts David O. Stewart in a talk on “2023 Lessons in History” at 7:30 p.m. Stewart also will discuss his book, “The Burning Land—When the Family Goes to War and the War Comes Home.” www.nationalcivilwarmuseum.org

Book Sale
May 6, 20: Friends of New Cumberland Public Library, 1 Benjamin Plaza, hosts pre-owned book sales on the first and third Saturdays, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., in Foundation House. Find books, vintage items, jewelry, music, puzzles, kids’ books, vinyl records and more. www.cumberlandcountylibraries.org

Landmark Tour
May 7: Historic Harrisburg Association presents a tour of sites and landmarks in Cumberland County, from Negley Park Lookout and Fort Couch in Lemoyne to King’s Gap Mansion in Mt. Holly Springs, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Tickets include lunch. www.historicharrisburg.org

Garden Faire
May 7: Kick off the gardening season at Fort Hunter Mansion, 5300 N. Front St., Harrisburg, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Purchase plants, visit craft vendors, enjoy lunch, experience Victorian dancing and music and visit the Paxtang Art Association’s show and sale. www.forthunter.org

Art & Brew Crawl
May 10: Sip beer, make art and taste delicious food in spaces throughout the Millworks, 340 Verbeke St., Harrisburg, 6 to 9 p.m. Sample five beers, a beer cocktail, enjoy an amuse bouche and an urban picnic and make art led by in-house artists. www.millworksharrisburg.com

Food Rally
May 11: Enjoy fresh, savory foods at 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. www.newcumberlandpa.org

Hunger Run
May 13: Support Hummelstown Food Pantry at the 8th Annual 5K Hummelstown Hunger Run/Walk in Schaffner Park. Registration begins at 8:30 a.m., and the race kicks off at 10 a.m. www.htownhungerrun.wixsite.com/hummelstown5k

Shred Day
May 13: Trinity Lutheran Church, 2000 Chestnut St., Camp Hill, will host a free Shred Day, 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. A secure shred truck will be on site to shred documents free of charge (limit five paper boxes per person).

Hershey Artfest
May 13: Enjoy an artistic day with the whole family at Hershey Artfest at the Cocoa Beanery and the Englewood Barn Complex, 1215 Research Blvd., Hummelstown, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Event features a juried art display, entertainment, food, local beer and wine and kids’ activities. www.hersheyartfest.org

Bonsai Bash
May 13: Help Nature’s Way Nursery celebrate its 50th anniversary with an all-day party, 9 a.m. to 8 p.m., at 1451 Pleasant Hill Rd., Harrisburg. Guest bonsai artist Tony Tickle from England will be on hand, the band Rivers will perform from 5 to 8 p.m., and guests can enjoy food and a special sale. www.natureswaybonsai.com

Creative Workshops
May 13: Stop by Wheel of Light Studio, 3738 Peters Mountain Rd., Halifax, for Second Saturday Workshops to craft a clay birdhouse, paint a wooden birdhouse and create vintage tin earrings, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. The event also features artisan demonstrations. www.wheeloflightstudio.com

AAPI Celebration
May 13: Join East Shore Area Library, 4501 Ethel St., Harrisburg, to celebrate Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month, 12 to 2:30 p.m. Watch family favorite “Moana,” make a craft, and take another home. www.dcls.org

Anti-Racism Race
May 14: YWCA Carlisle and Cumberland County host the annual Race Against Racism 5K run/walk at Dickinson Park, Carlisle. Registration begins at 9 a.m. and the race starts at 10 a.m. Stick around for a community party. www.ywcacarlisle.org

Business Women’s Forum
May 17: Carlisle Area Chamber and the West Shore Chamber of Commerce will host the Business Women’s Forum at Messiah University, 1 University Ave, Mechanicsburg, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Conference is designed for women to network and build leadership skills. www.wschamber.org

3rd in The Burg
May 19: 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

Plant Sale
May 20: Penn-Cumberland Garden Club hosts a plant sale at Frankenberger Tavern, 217 E. Main St., Mechanicsburg, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., with proceeds benefitting community projects. Plants, garden treasures and baked goods available. www.penncumberlandgardenclub.org

Plant Fest
May 20: Join Penn State Extension Cumberland County Master Gardeners for Plant Fest at Cumberland County Service Center, 310 Allen Rd., Carlisle, 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Shop for native plants, browse a yard sale and take home educational resources. www.extension.psu.edu

Restoration 5K
May 20: Join Greenlight Operation for its 3rd annual 5K at City Island, Carousel Pavilion, Harrisburg, to help support human trafficking survivors, 9 a.m. Participants can also register for a fun run. www.greenlightoperation.org

Block Party
May 20: Wildheart Ministries will host its annual Community Spring Block Party combined with Church Day Out, 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. Help the group with neighborhood cleanup and enjoy a block party afterwards. www.lovethehillpa.com

Roots & Foods
May 20: Along with Harrisburg’s Juneteenth Emancipation Celebration, Capital Area Cleanup will host Roots & Foods Day, a day of education and service, and a cleanup at The Bridge in Harrisburg, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. [email protected]

Tea Time
May 20: Enjoy an afternoon tea and program on J. Horace McFarland, the “Father of the American Rose Society,” at John Harris-Simon Cameron Mansion, 219 S. Front St., Harrisburg, 2 p.m. Taste tea sandwiches, desserts, teas and more, and view McFarland artifacts. www.dauphincountyhistory.org

Indian Arts
May 20: Indian Organization of Lancaster County presents the UTSAV Indian Arts Gala at the Ware Center, 42 N. Prince St., Lancaster. Enjoy a family-friendly celebration of India’s traditions and heritage through music, dance and food from various regions of India. Doors open at 5 p.m. www.iolcpa.org

Board Game Sale
May 21: Harrisburg Board Game Day holds a Board Game Yard Sale at Pursuit Coworking, 922 N. 3rd St., 12 to 7:30 p.m. Discover new games at a discounted price, from classic favorites to modern titles. Facebook: Board Game Yard Sale

Tea Luncheon
May 21: Join Fort Hunter Mansion, 5300 N. Front St., Harrisburg, for a luncheon tea, an illustrated presentation, “Exploring The Wyeth Dynasty and an Iconic Masterpiece,” and a tour of the mansion, 1 to 3:30 p.m. Enjoy scones, chicken salad, savory and sweet treats, and unending cups of tea. www.forthunter.org

Church History
May 21: Join church historian Kenneth Hayes and photographer Barbara Neff for “The First 65 Years 1860-1925,” a program about architectural history of Pine Street Presbyterian Church, 11:30 a.m. at 310 N. 3rd St., Harrisburg. Lunch will be served in Fellowship Hall. www.pinestreet.org.

Apollo Awards
May 21: Hershey Theatre, 15 E. Caracas Way, recognizes local students and high schools for outstanding achievement in musical and play productions at the Hershey Theatre Apollo Awards, 7 p.m. Monetary awards given to further education and encourage involvement in the performing arts. www.hersheyentertainment.com

Flower Show
May 23-24: Garden Club of Harrisburg presents “Our Beautiful River” a National Garden Club flower show at WITF, 4801 Lindle Rd., Harrisburg. Show takes place 1 to 4:30 p.m. on May 23, and 10 a.m. to 4:15 p.m. on May 24. www.gardenclubofharrisburg.com

Choir Auditions
May 23-June 3: Susquehanna Chorale hosts auditions in May and early June for its fall youth choral programs. Auditions held May 23, 6:30 to 8:30 p.m., May 30, 6:30 to 8:30 p.m., and June 3, 1 to 4 p.m. www.susquehannachorale.org

Golf Outing
May 26: Join Wildheart Ministries for its Wildheart Golf Outing at Sportsman’s Golf Course, 3800 Linglestown Rd., Harrisburg. Shotgun start begins at 8:30 a.m. Individual spots and corporate sponsorships available.www.swingforthehill.com

Iris Show
May 27: Susquehanna Iris Society’s annual Iris Show returns to the Garden Cottage at Hershey Gardens, 170 Hotel Rd, Hershey, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Irises will be on exhibit for judging and awards. www.hersheygardens.org

Artsfest
May 27-29: Celebrate the 56th annual Artsfest in Riverfront Park. The free event features juried artists and craftspeople in a variety of mediums, live entertainment, Jazzfest, Kidsfest, HBGFest by The HBG Flea, food trucks, a community glass mural project and more. www.harrisburgpa.gov

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Hablando mi Idioma: Melissa Mesones-Ortiz ayuda a Harrisburg a conectarse con residentes de habla hispana, apoya a la comunidad latina

April 27, 2023 | by Maddie Gittens

Melissa Mesones-Ortiz

Para una de sus primeras asignaciones de trabajo, se le pidió a Melissa Mesones-Ortiz que interpretara una reunión de la ciudad de Harrisburg de inglés a español.

La interpretación requiere concentración mental y un pensamiento agudo y rápido, pero ella lo había hecho muchas veces antes. Sin embargo, no esperaba cuánto tomaría la reunión —más de tres horas.

“La interpretación es en vivo, así que no puedes cometer un error”, dijo. “Estaban hablando muy rápido, pero estaba tratando de procesar y tomarme mi tiempo. Algunas personas no entienden, —es un mundo muy difícil, traducción e interpretación”.

Pero eso fue solo el comienzo de las innumerables horas que Mesones-Ortiz dedicaría a hacer que la ciudad fuera más accesible para los residentes de habla hispana. Como subdirectora de comunicaciones de Harrisburg, supervisa casi sin ayuda las comunicaciones con los residentes latinos que a menudo enfrentan barreras idiomáticas y culturales para interactuar con el gobierno local y acceder a él.

Mesones-Ortiz admite que es perfeccionista, especialmente cuando se trata de gramática y ortografía. Su familia también ha bromeado al respecto —su intensa atención al detalle. Pero en su línea de trabajo, un error podría significar cualquier cosa, desde equivocarse en las mediciones en un documento de zonificación hasta confundir el pickleball deportivo con una pelota que sirve como un refrigerio sabroso.

Sus servicios son vitales para el 20.5% de los residentes de Harrisburg que hablan un idioma distinto al inglés en casa, según datos del Censo de los Estados Unidos.

Sin embargo, su trabajo va más allá de ayudar a los residentes de habla hispana a entender lo que están leyendo o escuchando; ella está construyendo relaciones. En última instancia, sus esfuerzos les muestran que el gobierno local también está allí para servirles, —que no son extraños, sino miembros valiosos de la comunidad.

“Poco a poco, cada vez que los ayudo con los servicios, se involucran más con los asuntos de la ciudad que saben que son importantes”, dijo.

Señorita Comprensión

Mesones-Ortiz puede relacionarse con muchos de los residentes a los que ayuda porque sabe lo que es estar en un nuevo país sin el inglés como primer idioma.

Primero vino a Harrisburg desde su país natal, Perú, como estudiante de estudios en el extranjero y se hospedó en International House, un antiguo programa de intercambio de estudiantes en el centro. Recuerda algunas de sus primeras semanas en la ciudad, perdiéndose en la estación de tren y asombrándose con Strawberry Square. Le encantaba que hubiera un “centro comercial” a poca distancia.

Pero también fue un ajuste difícil.

“Fue mi primera introducción a la vida estadounidense”, dijo. “Yo estaba en shock. Tenía mucho miedo de hablar inglés. Fue difícil al principio porque la gente no estaba familiarizada con mi acento, así que tuve que repetir las cosas varias veces”.

Después de la universidad, Mesones-Ortiz decidió vivir en Harrisburg, trabajando en Penn State como supervisora de investigación y en el Centro Comunitario Latino Hispanoamericano en Allison Hill. Comenzó su puesto en la ciudad en 2021 con el objetivo de servir a la comunidad y una pasión específica por ayudar a los adultos mayores latinos de Harrisburg.

“Tenía muchas ganas de proporcionarles información”, dijo. “Es una comunidad que a veces se olvidan”.

Cuando comenzó Mesones-Ortiz, la ciudad carecía de servicios formales de traducción e interpretación, lo cual es crucial para los que no hablan inglés. Procesos como obtener un permiso de construcción, pagar una multa de estacionamiento o simplemente llamar a la ciudad para hacer una pregunta pueden ser un desafío para alguien con barreras culturales o de idioma.

Estas barreras pueden causar malentendidos y miedo e incluso pueden causar problemas a los residentes si, sin saberlo, violan un código o estatuto de la ciudad.

“Yo fui una de ellas cuando estaba aprendiendo inglés, así que sé la dificultad que es no saber un idioma”, dijo Mesones-Ortiz.

Oportunidad para la Comunidad

La oficina del cuarto piso de Mesones-Ortiz está decorada con obras de arte, en su mayoría dibujos de crayones de su hija de 9 años. Es pequeño, pero se ha convertido en un lugar

acogedor para los muchos residentes de Harrisburg con los que ha establecido relaciones en los últimos dos años.

Ella cree que, si puede ser una cara amable y comprensiva con un residente de habla hispana, esa persona le transmitirá la palabra a un vecino, y la opinión de la comunidad sobre la ciudad cambiará lentamente para mejor. Los funcionarios de la ciudad no quieren imponer multas, pero están tratando de ayudarte y mantenerte a salvo, explica.

También pasa mucho tiempo informando a los residentes sobre los servicios que la ciudad ofrece y los que no, ya que sus antecedentes culturales pueden ser diferentes. Además de traducir documentos, ha recopilado recursos informativos para los residentes de habla hispana y espera eventualmente organizar talleres temáticos.

Mesones-Ortiz ve que su trabajo está dando sus frutos ya que los residentes tienen más confianza para relacionarse con la ciudad y comprender mejor su papel.

“Realmente creen que pueden confiar en el municipio y la ciudad y que van a encontrar ayuda”, dijo. “Ya no es eso, ‘Tengo un boleto, estoy en problemas’. Es más como, ‘me van a ayudar’. Ya no veo ese miedo”.

La inclusión no solo es beneficiosa para quienes no hablan inglés, explicó Mesones-Ortiz, sino para toda la comunidad de Harrisburg. Cuando los latinos reciben asistencia adaptada a sus necesidades, estarán más involucrados en los acontecimientos de la ciudad. ¿Y una ciudad más diversa, vibrante y unida no es mejor para todos?

“Solo queremos oportunidades para mostrar lo que podemos aportar al país”, dijo Mesones-Ortiz. “Si las personas pueden obtener más oportunidades, podemos ser una comunidad más conectada”.

El Centro de Gobierno de la Ciudad MLK de Harrisburg está ubicado en 10 N. 2nd St., Harrisburg. Para contactar a Melissa Mesones-Ortiz, envíele un correo electrónico a [email protected].

Traducción Certificada por Latino Connection.

Este artículo está disponible en inglés nuestro sitio web.

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