Get Hooked: Hookers Seafood Joint opens in downtown Harrisburg with fried favorites

November 3, 2022 | by Maddie Gittens

Hookers Seafood Joint owners Robert Bryant and Kendale Harris

According to the owners of downtown Harrisburg’s newest seafood restaurant, it hasn’t taken long for people to get hooked on their food.

Within a week from last Thursday’s soft opening of Hookers Seafood Joint on Walnut Street, first-time customers have already returned for more.

Owners Robert Bryant and Kendale Harris of York credit the early success to their mouth-watering food and friendly personalities.

“The food is one thing, but the energy is another,” Bryant said.

During the pandemic, the pair of Philadelphia natives opened their first business, The SteakOut, with York and Lancaster locations, after realizing the need for an authentic Philly cheesesteak spot. They started offering seafood options at The SteakOut, but decided to open another business dedicated to the fried fish and their “renowned” grits. Hookers Seafood Joint was born and opened in York and now Harrisburg.

Based on Bryant and Harris’ previous experience selling their seafood out of a food truck in Harrisburg, they knew there was a market in the city for their dishes.

Hookers specializes in fried fish—flounder, whiting and shrimp—and their gouda cheesy grits.

To perfect their recipes, the pair has spent hours upon hours in the kitchen “burning their taste buds” and “consuming way too much salt,” they said.

“It’s all been from scratch and messing around in the kitchen,” Bryant said.

Outside of their food, Bryant and Harris believe in the power of energetic, entertaining marketing and customer service. You may walk into the shop and hear Harris singing in the kitchen while you’re greeted by Bryant whose charisma is contagious. They’re also very aware of the connotations that come with the name Hookers and aren’t shy about cracking jokes on their social media page. They like being a little edgy and playful with their business.

“To have the good food is the icing on the cake, but to have a good personality is important too,” Harris said.

Hookers is currently open for takeout and delivery and accepting online orders only. Their Harrisburg grand opening will take place on Nov. 17, when they will open for in-store ordering and dining.

Hookers Seafood Joint is located at 405 Walnut St., Harrisburg. For more information, visit their website or Facebook page.

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Weekend Roundup with Sara Bozich

November 3, 2022 | by Sara Bozich

Plan your weekend with my weekly list of things to do around Harrisburg and central PA! Scroll down or use the menu links to find ideas for your weekend.

What you’ll find:

For your weekend planning
Top Weekend Recs
- Thursday
- Friday
- Saturday
- Sunday
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For something new: HBG Flea is back at Strawberry Square for the season; I’m having a pre-moving clothes sale. It’s Mustache Mocha Month at Cornerstone Coffeehouse.

Worth noting: Autos & Ales is Friday! Midstate Distillery announced they’re closing their Cameron Street taproom (opening two new locations!) — Harrisburg Beer Runners have a Farewell Run on Sunday.

Things on my agenda this weekend: A cooking class at Cornerstone tonight, hunting widow status engaged tomorrow, a kid’s bday party, and finishing the weekend with a Hershey Bears game (go Pens! Sorry!)

For your weekend planning

- Plan a holiday-themed trip 🎄

- Market on Market now open Tuesdays through Nov. 22 in Camp Hill

- View my local Restaurant Directory or Local Brewery, Winery, & Cidery Directory

- See what else you missed on the blog

Below are options for your weekend.

Things to Do in Harrisburg + Central PA | Weekend Roundup | Sara Bozich

Top Weekend Recs

1. Check out AAA’s Pet Costume Contest!

1. The Best Farmers Markets around Harrisburg

1. Submit your events for the Weekend Roundup

Thursday

- Taylor Tomlinson: The Have It All Tour at Hershey Theatre

- Market Square Concerts presents Israeli Chamber Project

- Family Gallery Tour: Paleontology at The State Museum of Pennsylvania

- Steel Magnolias at West Shore Theatre

- Speakeasy Heist Murder Mystery Dinner at Wyndridge Farm

- The Linda Ronstadt Experience Starring American Idol Star Tristan McIntosh Debut at The Englewood

- RAKIM [CELEBRATING THE 25TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE 18TH LETTER] @ XL LIVE

- Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street at Hershey Area Playhouse

- Sunset Relaxation Float with Susquehanna Outfitters

Friday

- Monika Krol Trunk Show at Meeka Fine Jewelry

- Autos & Ales Craft Beer Festival 2022 at AACA Museum

- Camp Hill Community Blood Drive at Fredricksen Library

- Art of the State Exhibition Tour at The State Museum of Pennsylvania

- Virtual Program: The Secret Life of the Wild Turkey at The State Museum of Pennsylvania

- First Fridays with DJ KYNZ at Zeroday

- Lobster Palooza! at SpringGate Vineyard

- CRACK THE SKY wsg WE CAME FROM SPACE @ XL LIVE

- The Uptown Band at The Englewood

- November First Friday at Dills Tavern

- Theatre Harrisburg Present JOSEPH AND THE AMAZING TECHNICOLOR DREAMCOAT at Whitaker Center

- Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street at Hershey Area Playhouse

Saturday

- HBG Flea – November 2022 back at Strawberry Square for the season!

- Pilates Yoga Fusion with Burn30 at Zeroday Brewing

- Monika Krol Trunk Show at Meeka Fine Jewelry

- Camp Hill Trick or Trot 5K

- Holiday Open House at Calicutts Spice Co.

- Walk With A Doc at Veterans Park Trail

- Community Blood Drive at West Shore YMCA

- SoupFest & PIckle-Fest at Shoppes at Newberrytown

- Thyra Book Signing by author Steven Williams at Retro & Rad

- Harrisburg Symphony Orchestra POPS 1: The Great Ladies of Jazz

- Lobster Palooza! at SpringGate Vineyard

- Cocktails and Candy Canes 2022 at The Carlisle Antique Mall

- Humane Society of Harrisburg Fur Ball Gala & Auction

- ADRIAN PRADHAN @ XL LIVE

- U2TOPIA: Tribute to U2 at The Englewood

- Bo Deadlys/St James and the Apostles at Metropolis Collective

- Gamut Theatre Group presents Innocent Merriment: or An Evening with Gilbert & Sullivan

- Theatre Harrisburg Present JOSEPH AND THE AMAZING TECHNICOLOR DREAMCOAT at Whitaker Center

- Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street at Hershey Area Playhouse

- The Color Purple at Ephrata Performing Arts Center

- New Cumberland Farmers’ Market On 4th

- York County Ale Trail: The Brew Bus!

- York County Ale Trail: The Original Walking Tour

- Hanover Brewery Tours: The Brew Bus!

Sunday

- All About the Gut at Cornerstone Coffeehouse

- HERSHEY BEARS VS. WILKES-BARRE/SCRANTON PENGUINS

- Harrisburg Hot Cider Hustle 5K/10K

- Lobster Palooza! at SpringGate Vineyard

- Cocktails and Candy Canes 2022 at The Carlisle Antique Mall

- Harrisburg Symphony Orchestra POPS 1: The Great Ladies of Jazz

- Sleeping Beauty | State Ballet of Ukraine at Hershey Theatre

- National Theatre Live: Prima Facie at Midtown Cinema

- Gamut Theatre Group presents Innocent Merriment: or An Evening with Gilbert & Sullivan

- Theatre Harrisburg Present JOSEPH AND THE AMAZING TECHNICOLOR DREAMCOAT at Whitaker Center

- Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street at Hershey Area Playhouse

- Drag Brunch Bingo at HMAC

- Hanover Brewery Tours: The Brew Bus!

- York County Ale Trail: The Brew Bus!

- York County Ale Trail: The Original Walking Tour

- Sunday Family Day at Stumpy’s Hatchet House Hershey

What are you doing this weekend around Harrisburg? Let us know on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.

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Crow Away: State begins annual crow dispersal to prevent roosting at Capitol

November 1, 2022 | by Maddie Gittens

A view of the Pennsylvania Capitol complex

It’s time for Harrisburg crows to take to the sky.

The Pennsylvania Department of General Services (DGS) announced on Tuesday that it will begin its annual “Crow Dispersal Program” on Nov. 8.

Throughout the next few months, PA Capitol Police will discharge exploding shells and whistling devices to deter crows from roosting. The dispersal program will take place daily, between 5 to 7 p.m, and the public should expect to hear noises from the devices.

The methods are approved by the U.S. Department of Agriculture and are non-lethal and not harmful to people, crows, other animals or the environment, according to the state.

According to the DGS, the crow dispersal program helps reduce slipping hazards for pedestrians due to crow waste that can accumulate on sidewalks, especially in wet weather. It also helps reduce the damage from crow waste to buildings in the Capitol complex.

This is the 25^th year of the program.

For more information, visit the Pennsylvania Department of General Services’ website.

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Additional Harrisburg projects slated to receive state redevelopment funds

November 1, 2022 | by Lawrance Binda

The Harrisburg Senators play at FNB Field.

Three more Harrisburg projects will receive state redevelopment grants, as the commonwealth today announced additional award recipients.

Leading off the list, the city will receive $6 million for upgrades to FNB Field, the city-owned stadium that hosts the Harrisburg Senators minor league baseball team.

According to the application, work will include new field lighting, renovation of locker rooms, a new home team clubhouse, expansion of the existing boardwalk and scoreboard replacement. This would be the first significant upgrade to the stadium in about 15 years, when the city embarked on a two-phase project.

The grant fully funds the city’s request of $6 million for the project under the Redevelopment Assistance Capital Program (RACP), a matching grant, reimbursement program that helps fund the acquisition and construction of regional economic, cultural, civic, recreational and historical improvement projects.

The two other projects announced today are:

Harrisburg University, $1.75 million, to construct new facilities for applied research, education and workforce development focused on emerging technology sectors in food, agriculture and environmental science. These facilities will house the HU Center for Advanced Agriculture and Sustainability, featuring education and workforce development programs alongside industry-oriented applied research and technical innovation.
Pennsylvania STEAM Academy Rooftop Playground, $1.5 million, to transform a portion of the rooftop of its Midtown Academic Building at 1500 N. 3rd St. into a rooftop playground to provide an indoor play area for its elementary and middle school students. A canopy of solar panels will provide filtered light and generate solar energy to partially power the school building.

“I am thrilled to announce these RACP grants that will benefit the region,” said state Rep. Patty Kim, who represents Harrisburg. “Such significant funding means we can continue to invest in Dauphin County, which also means investing in everyone who lives here.”

Last week, the commonwealth announced the first group of RACP award recipients in Harrisburg. These projects included:

$3 million to Reily GreenWorks for the development of a 155-unit apartment building with neighborhood-oriented retail on the ground floor at a proposed project at 320 Reily St.
$1.5 million to Harrisburg Events Center to complete extensive renovations at the King Mansion at 2201 N. Front St.
$2.75 million to Harristown Enterprises for the renovation of the Harristown Agriculture Building, a proposed project at 221-223 Market St.
$ 1.6 million to Millworks Historic Campus Preservation for the rehabilitation of 1321 N. 4th St., the planned site of the relocated Millworks Brewery.

Several other projects in Harrisburg applied for funds, but did not receive grants in this round. The commonwealth sometimes announces a second round of RACP funding later in the year or early the following year.

Click here to download a spreadsheet to see all the projects that applied for and received grants in this funding round.

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Come see why SVFCU is ‘Where You Belong’

October 31, 2022 | by SVFCU Staff

_Advertorial

Banking with a History
Since 1967, Susquehanna Valley Federal Credit Union (SVFCU) has provided financial services to the West Shore and beyond.
Credit Unions are rooted in community. When you decide to join, you are becoming a Member and Owner, not just a number. Every Credit Union Member has equal ownership and one vote regardless of how much money a member has. Credit Unions exist to serve members, not to make a profit. Earnings are returned to our members in the form of lower loan rates, higher interest on deposits and lower fees. The goal is to serve all members well. Every member counts!
SVFCU believes in their core values, being personable, knowledgeable and dedicated to service.

How it all began
In 1967, A group of educators from the West Shore School District made a decision. They decided to start their own credit union. For the first 12 years, the Credit Union operated out of the home of the treasurer and founder. During those first 12 years, services were only offered to those who belonged to Select Employee Groups. The Credit Union soon grew to 1,500 members and $1.2 million in assets.
During the period from 1979 to 1987, the Credit Union moved the business out of the home of their founder and treasurer and served members for several different leased locations. It continued to grow from there. Two smaller credit unions merged with us and we added many new groups to the Credit Union, primarily different school districts in the area. By the end of that eight-year period, the credit union grew to $14 million in assets and around 4,000 members.

Becoming SVFCU
With a community charter on the horizon in the 1990’s, the Credit Union’s name was changed to Susquehanna Valley Federal Credit Union to better reflect its growing membership in the area.
As SVFCU continued to grow, adding more and more members and services, it soon outgrew their building. In December of 2001, operations were moved to the current location at 3850 Hartzdale Drive in Camp Hill, Pennsylvania.
In June of 2008, SVFCU converted to a community charter serving Cumberland, Dauphin and Perry counties.

SVFCU Today
Today as a full service, community chartered federal credit union, SVFCU provides an array of financial services to over 6,000 members.
Wherever you are in your life’s journey, SVFCU can help you fund it.
SVFCU offers members the services you’d expect from a big bank, without the big bank fees and red tape.
You are eligible to join if you live, work, worship, or attend school in Cumberland, Dauphin or Perry Counties or if you have an immediate family member who is a member, regardless of where you live.
CEO, Eric Lundvall, “We have proudly served our community for over 50 years. Come see why SVFCU is ‘Where You Belong’.”
Learn more about Susquehanna Valley Federal Credit Union at svfcu.org or follow us on Facebook or Instagram!

Grand Opening for the Hartzdale Drive Branch in 2001

The home of the treasurer/founder the Credit Union was operated out of for the first 12 years.

Inside the home where the Credit Union was operated out of for the first 12 years.

SVFCU’s current CEO, Eric Lundvall.

Unfair Housing: Affordable, decent housing comes at great cost to Governor’s Square residents caught in a maintenance, ownership struggle

October 31, 2022 | by Maddie Gittens

Britni Lowe walks into her condemned apartment in Governor’s Square. Photo by Dani Fresh.

Three-year-old Stevie bounces around his great grandmother’s small apartment. A kid’s show plays on the television in the living room, but he has no attention for it. Instead, Stevie reaches for the light switch, his small finger flicking it off-on-off-on.

“Stop it, Stevie!” his great grandmother scolds, her phone pressed to her ear. She continues her conversation.

Stevie wanders the apartment and climbs onto an armchair.

Britni Lowe, Stevie’s mom, is unfazed by the distractions. She calmly attends to her son while recounting the recent housing trouble she’s faced.

For six years, Lowe has lived in her one-bedroom apartment on Forrest Street in Harrisburg, only a quick walk from her grandmother Faith’s apartment.

Her apartment is one of over 200 rental units within Governor’s Square Apartments, which includes affordable multi- and single-family properties in the Camp Curtin neighborhood.

While Lowe was happy to have a place of her own, problems with her unit began early on, she said. Over the years, she’s had issues with rodents, leaky windows and cracking along the walls. She’s found mold in the vents, holes in the ceiling caused by nosy squirrels and bricks coming loose on the exterior of the building. Lowe has done whatever maintenance she could on her own, setting out mousetraps and spraying for bugs. But, on the whole, she explained, most of her maintenance requests to the property management went unanswered.

“You become unhappy when your home doesn’t feel happy,” she said. “It makes you feel like you don’t matter here. This has taken a toll on my mental health.”

The trouble with her home reached a peak in August when Lowe came home to a “Condemned” notice affixed to her door. It stated that her building, which includes her apartment and one other, was “found to be unsafe due to damage, decay, dilapidation.” The city’s evaluation form also said that it was “a blight to the neighborhood, a hazard to public health and safety.” She had 60 days to leave the property, it stated.

“I’m in there with my baby,” Lowe said. “I felt hopeless.”

Later that month, Lowe attended a town hall event for residents of Governor’s Square, put on by the Camp Curtin Neighborhoods United group. She stood in the back, Stevie in tow, and voiced her concerns over her living conditions with a room full of other residents with stories like hers.

One of many piles of debris found outside a condemned apartment. Photo by Dani Fresh.

The Meetings

On a Wednesday and subsequent Thursday night, residents of Governor’s Square Apartments filed into the lobby of the PA Fair Housing Council on the corner of N. 5th and Maclay streets. Camp Curtin Neighborhoods United President Laura Harding opened the meeting from a podium, stressing the importance of a solutions-based discussion.

Not only had the meeting drawn the attention of tenants, but of several local officials who joined, including Harrisburg Mayor Wanda Williams, City Council President Danielle Bowers and other members of council, state Rep. Patty Kim (D-103) and Magisterial District Judge Sonya McKnight. Representatives from the Pennsylvania Housing Finance Agency (PHFA) and Dauphin County attended, as well.

Comments from residents moved from specific complaints about their apartments to questions about how to withhold rent until issues are addressed. In Lowe’s case, she had urgent questions about where she was supposed to go now. With a shaky, yet firm, voice, she made her case.

However, there was a general air of confusion at the meetings. How did things get to this point? Whose responsibility was it to fix these problems? What’s going to happen next? Questions like these went unanswered, or at least, were left unclear. Even many of the officials in the room were uncertain of the details.

But what wasn’t foggy was that code citations on the properties were stacking up against Governor’s Square. According to Anne Montgomery, director of Harrisburg’s Bureau of Codes, the city has been to court with Governor’s Square “many times” over code citations that weren’t brought into compliance. At the time, Williams said that there were over 100 code citations for the properties. As of late September, the city also had condemned seven Governor’s Square properties, meaning they are structurally unsound, and placarded another 17, which means they are deemed non-habitable.

According to Williams, she’s been hearing of the issues at Governor’s Square for around two years, though some residents say their problems started even earlier.

Early this past summer, Rhonda Mays of the Fair Housing Council of the Capital Region started noticing an uptick in people requesting assistance with issues at Governor’s Square.

“They had a terrible problem with their units being habitable,” she said. “It wasn’t just little things. It was big things.”

When the organization starts seeing a pattern like this, they keep a file to document the complaints. From there, they try to advise tenants on things that could help, such as putting their complaints in writing and making sure property management gets them. Withholding a portion of their rent is another option—although an unpopular one—for tenants. But according to Mays, there’s not a lot that can be done.

“There’s not a whole lot that we can tell the tenants,” Mays admitted. “It’s a matter of waiting out the process.”

There were all those officials and agencies in the Fair Housing lobby during the tenant meetings, but there wasn’t much they could do.

The entity that certainly could do something—the owner—wasn’t there.

Photo by Dani Fresh

Intervention

In the late 1990s, the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) foreclosed on a large swath of apartments that it held mortgages on, formerly the Maclay Street Apartments. Instead of auctioning the properties off, they were transferred to the city in 2003, and the Harrisburg Redevelopment Authority (HRA) took the title.

Harrisburg then issued a request for proposals and selected Maryland-based Landex Development to obtain and renovate the 222 rental units known as the “Residences.” The company also would later construct and obtain dozens more properties, call the “Towns.” Landex formed Uptown Partners LP to be the managing limited partner.

To help offset the cost of building affordable housing, HUD awarded the project an “Upfront” federal grant of about $10 million for renovations. Additional funding was obtained through PHFA low income housing tax credits, among other contributions. Landex completed the project in 2012.

Along with the funds came restrictive covenants, requiring the property to remain affordable for 30 years, until 2034.

“They were excited to work with us and built a high-quality project,” said Bryan Davis, director of the Harrisburg Redevelopment Authority. “It was such a huge, positive impact.”

But, these days, Davis was feeling differently about how things were going at Governor’s Square, saying that HRA is “very disappointed in the existing owner.”

In a statement, Uptown Partners acknowledged the issue, saying that they “understand and appreciate the concerns about maintenance issues and the need for capital improvements at the property.”

“We are prioritizing the most important needs and working hard to resolve them as soon as possible,” the company stated.

However, in its statement, the company added that the cost of services, such as water, trash pickup and maintenance, has far outweighed the revenue received in rent. The company claimed that, due to the pandemic, residents “suffered severe financial hardship” and therefore still owe a significant amount of back rent. The statement also noted unexpected costs from chronic illegal trash dumping on the property, among other issues.

“This property is more than 50 years old and was last renovated 15 years ago,” Uptown Partners said in its statement. “We recognize that a significant intervention and a sizable investment are needed to address the residents’ needs.”

Also in the statement, the company noted trying to work with the city regarding the sale of the property. According to Davis, during the pandemic, Uptown Partners put Governor’s Square up for sale, but received no interest from buyers.

Stephen Schuback. Photo by Dani Fresh.

However, within the past year, one interested party has come forth.

Stephen Schuback is a Harrisburg native who has had his eye on Governor’s Square, and he will tell you frankly that he saw it as a good business investment. It was the potential for money-making that brought him back to the city from his home in South Carolina. But as he began interacting with residents, he knew he wanted to help them, he said.

“You’re all important to me,” Schuback assured residents at the first of the two Governor’s Square tenant meetings. “I have the experience to pull this off. Nobody’s going to want to leave if I take over.”

Uptown Partners said that they have an agreement to sell the property to a private group, but would not confirm that Schuback is that “private group.” However, Schuback told TheBurg multiple times that he has a contract with the owner to take over the 222 rental units. Additionally, Davis of the Harrisburg Redevelopment Authority confirmed that they have not had any other serious interest in the property.

Schuback’s resume notes his experience in affordable and market-rate housing development, including a renovation project for an affordable housing development in Akron, Ohio. That one was similar to what’s happening at Governor’s Square, he said.

But returning to Harrisburg holds a different meaning for him.

While his younger years in the city were fraught with drug dealing and other criminal behavior, landing him prison time, Schuback said that, with this project, he hopes to change the way his name is remembered.

“I’d like people to remember me for something more than what I did as a kid,” he said. “I want them to know my family cared about the community.”

When Someone Cares

Debbie M. Taylor, is another tenant who, like Britni Lowe, has struggled with maintenance issues for several years.

Taylor, a 67-year-old Harrisburg native, is known as “Gigi” or “the gorgeous granny” around her Governor’s Square neighborhood. She’s friends with her neighbors, especially the ladies in her apartment building, which includes another Debbie Taylor who lives above her. She makes brownies and finger Jello for the neighborhood kids and is friendly with the maintenance men who walk by, calling one “Papa Smurf” for his white beard and asking another if he likes her red-painted toenails.

Taylor loves the people she lives near, but, when it comes to the condition of her apartment, she said that the past two years have “sucked.”

Her screen window was broken for almost a year, and the hallway in her building was never clean. She and the other ladies would regularly scrub it themselves. The grass and landscaping weren’t maintained, and the playground across the parking lot used to look like a jungle, she said.

But recently, things have started to improve, she explained.

Schuback, while still pursuing purchasing Governor’s Square, has, in the meantime, taken to fixing up residents’ units. He has a contract with the owners, he said, to repair and answer maintenance requests on the property. Many residents who had long-unaddressed maintenance issues started to see change.

Linda Manigualt gestures up to her gutters that have been cleaned and repaired recently. Photo by Dani Fresh.

While Uptown Partners wouldn’t confirm that they contracted Schuback to do the work, they said in a statement that, “a number of resources have been engaged to make repairs at the property. We’re pleased with the progress that’s being made. The health and safety of the residents are our top priorities.”

“Since Steve’s been here, everything’s getting better,” Taylor said. “He cares. It’s a different feeling when someone cares.”

According to Schuback, he’s doing the work for free, while the owners pay for supplies.

He has also helped Lowe, who soon will move into another Governor’s Square apartment and out of the condemned building, he said. She’s excited that Stevie will have his own room in the new place.

“I’ll be happy to get us out of here,” Lowe said.

Schuback is confident that the work he is doing will show the city that he is capable of and serious about taking over and renovating Governor’s Square.

While Schuback said that he already has an agreement to purchase Governor’s Square from Uptown Partners, there are approvals he must get to actually obtain the properties.

Because of the HUD Upfront grant that was given to the owners to develop the property back in the earlier 2000s, Uptown Partners and Schuback must get approval of the sale from HUD.

According to the HRA’s Davis, this grant functions more like a loan, which eventually will need to be paid back or forgiven by HUD. If someone wants to purchase Governor’s Square, however, that grant/loan needs HUD approval to be transferred to a new owner. In order to request that transfer, Schuback was required to submit a financial, construction and management plan, among other details, about his proposal for Governor’s Square. He sent that plan in August to HRA, which functions as a conduit for the loan between HUD and Governor’s Square.

If approved by HUD, Schuback would take on $8.8 million in debt from the HUD grant for the majority of Governor’s Square properties—the 222 units.

Davis said that Schuback’s plan is still under review.

Although Harrisburg officials have repeatedly said that the city doesn’t have authority over what happens with the property, the administration has had things to say about the project.

According to Harrisburg Communications Director Matt Maisel, “[Schuback] is nowhere near where he needs to be financially to acquire the property.”

Schuback has proposed a $12 million renovation, estimating that each unit will require about a $56,000 upgrade. However, that budget is a little under half of what the city and HRA claim is needed. A building assessment report ordered by the Harrisburg Housing Authority in 2021 found that $22.5 million was needed to renovate Governor’s Square.

“Whether or not he truly wants to do good by the residents there is entirely separate of whether he can,” Maisel added.

He said that Schuback would not be acquiring the property any time in the near future.

On the other hand, Schuback feels confident in his estimated renovation costs.

“I’m good at what I do; it shows in my work,” he said. “I didn’t think I was going to get this resistance. At the end of the day, I’m going to get what I want.”

HUD Regional Public Affairs representative Sean Callahan said that the department has not received a package with information about a proposed sale from Uptown Partners, something that is required for HUD review. To be approved for the acquisition, a new owner would need to show that they have the capacity to manage the property, Callahan said.

“It does not appear the prospective owner has demonstrated capacity,” he said.

In October, Schuback received notice from the city that he was missing building permits for work he was doing on properties at Governor’s Square. He refuted that he needed them for the repairs he was doing.

“I’m used to getting what I want,” Schuback said. “But I’m starting to lose my patience. At some point, I’ve got to realize that this is futile.”

Schuback said that he has tried to meet with city officials to discuss issues like these, to no avail. Maisel said the city has reached out to him to meet, also unsuccessfully.

Linda Manigault stands out front of her home. Photo by Dani Fresh.

Waiting Game

Back over on Forrest Street, Governor’s Square resident Linda Manigault has accrued a list of maintenance requests sitting largely untouched for two years. Trash piled up behind her apartment, duct tape covered the gaps in her back door frame, area rugs hid the stained, aging carpet and, most recently, a mouse in her kitchen had her running for higher ground upstairs.

She’s thought about moving, but the low rent price has kept her around for years. There’s no way she could find something this cheap, she said.

Manigault’s dream is to move to Georgia. She’s been saving her money. But she knows the housing market isn’t in her favor right now—especially not for affordable housing.

“If I have to wait, at least I want to be comfortable here,” she said.

That’s the unfortunate reality that many low-income residents are living in. Affordable housing is in short supply, and demand for it is high. It’s a reality that’s left residents like Manigault stuck, without options.

“It’s not good,” said Leah Eppinger, executive director of Dauphin County’s housing authority. “There is a large shortage of units and a large population in need.”

The county’s housing authority doesn’t do work in Harrisburg city, which falls to the Harrisburg Housing Authority, which didn’t return calls for comment. But Eppinger’s outlook on the state of the market applies widely, as housing shortages are a nationwide problem.

According to Eppinger, around 3,000 households are on their waiting list for public housing, and their Section 8 housing choice voucher program has been closed to new applicants since 2009 while they’ve worked through that list.

For a family trying to find affordable housing right now, “it’s probably impossible,” she said.

Like many residents, Britni Lowe has thought about moving out of Governor’s Square. She has searched online for other apartments, but has struggled to find affordable options. When she has, they’re often owned by out-of-town landlords, which makes her nervous. Like others who have come to the same conclusions, Lowe has stayed put.

The sentiment around Governor’s Square has improved as Schuback has made upgrades to apartments, cut the grass and cleaned up illegal dumping hotspots, giving residents a sense of hope. But as discussions continue in the offices of city and state officials, the question of what happens next remains.

In the meantime, Governor’s Square families are left stuck in the middle, waiting on an answer.

It’s mid-October, and it’s been over 60 days since the condemnation notice. But Governor’s Square still hasn’t moved Lowe, although Schuback has made some repairs to her building and said he plans to move her to the new apartment soon.

Lowe’s hope is tempered with realism, because she knows that things could change on a whim.

“I’m gonna roll with whatever comes my way because I don’t have no other choice,” Lowe said. “Life is unpredictable.”

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Happenings: Our November Calendar of Events

October 31, 2022 | by Missy Smith

Museums & Art Spaces

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

The Jenkins 1966 Volkswagen Type 2 Deluxe Microbus, through Dec. 23

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

“Visions Across the Rainbow—Generations of Pride,” a collaborative exhibition with the LGBT Center of Central PA History Project, through Nov. 23

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

“Art and Motherhood,” a show of Pamela Black’s colorful abstract paintings, Nov. 11-Dec. 3

“Art for the Holidays,” featuring holiday gifts and art by CALC artist and craftspeople, Nov. 11-Dec. 30

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

November artist of the month

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

“The Gilded Age at Fort Hunter Fashion Exhibit,” through Dec. 23

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

Annual Fiber Art Show featuring Elke Isenberg’s Whimsical Creations, through Nov. 12

The Annual Holiday Show, Nov. 16-Dec. 31; holiday open house: Nov. 25, 9 a.m.-8 p.m.

Hershey Area Art Association (HAAA)
hersheyareaartassociation.com

HAAA Member Exhibition at Hershey Public Library, through Dec. 10

HAAA Member Exhibition at The Cocoa Beanery, through Jan. 9

Backstage at the Allen Theater Café, through Jan. 9

Campbelltown Academy of Music and Arts Ballroom Exhibit, through Jan. 14

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

“Homecoming” alumna exhibition with Kathryn Yoder, through Nov. 3

“Now and Then,” a retrospective exhibition featuring the work of wood firing potter and poet Jack Troy, through Nov. 20

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

New works by Amie Bantz, Linda Benton-McCloskey, Reina 76 Artist, Yachiyo Beck and Rachelle Lowe, through Nov. 13

New works by John Davis, Mary Gelenser, Richard Souders, Averi Shepps, Joelle and Justin Arawjo and Erica Hilligas, Nov. 15-Dec. 11

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)
Landis House, 67 N. Fourth St., Newport
717-567-7023; perrycountyarts.org

“Art Uplifts” outdoor art exhibit at Millerstown Community Park, through Nov. 13

“Art on Tour at the Capitol,” PCCA member artwork on display and for sale in the East Wing Rotunda of the state Capitol building, Nov. 1-30

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

Artisan Marketplace of Perry County, filled with local art and handmade gifts for the holidays, through Jan. 14

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

“Art of the State” annual juried exhibit selected by a distinguished panel of jurors, through Jan. 15

“Game Changers: Pennsylvania Women Who Made History,” celebrating women from across the state in diverse fields

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

“Four Pillars—Mount Gretna Artist Residency,” through Nov. 20

“Nature in Art,” the work of Victoria Fuller that explores the interconnectedness of human and natural systems on VanGo! Museum on Wheels, through December

“Cojiform,” a multidisciplinary interactive art installation by Pittsburgh-based artist Isaac Bower that combines sculpture and creative problem-solving, through Dec. 4

“Lies & Redactions—A Survey,” Doug Navarra’s work of mark-making, historic found documents, bold minimalistic redactions and layered geometric patterns, through Jan. 8

“Deep Roots—Ornamentation and Identity,” highlights the work of artists Kuzana Ogg, Cecilia Paredes, Daisy Patton, Helice Wen and Helen Zughaib, through Jan. 22

“Fleeting Pleasures,” featuring work by some of the best-known ukiyo-e artists, exploring the “floating world” of Edo culture, through Jan. 22

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

“Bronze—Highlights From the Permanent Collection,” through Feb. 25

“Noise,” drawings, paintings, prints and photographs by Dickinson Professor Emeritus of Art Ward Davenny, through April 15

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

Nov. 22-Jan. 7: “Home for the Holidays” show with art and local gifts

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

“Art Heals—The Jingle Dress Project,” photography by Eugene Tapahe looking at the healing power of the Ojibwe jingle dress across the nation, Nov. 4-29; reception: Nov. 4, 6-8 p.m.

Read, Make, Learn

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

Nov. 5: Storytime Play Date—Stories That Move, 11 a.m.-1 p.m.
Nov. 5: Yes, And…Improv Workshop (ages 8-12), 2-3:30 p.m.
Nov. 9: Escape to the Circus, 6-8 p.m.

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

Nov. 1-22: Beginning Oil Painting—Landscape in Fall, Tuesdays, 10 a.m.-12 p.m. or 6-8 p.m.
Nov. 1-22: Intermediate/Advanced Painting, Tuesdays, 1-3:30 p.m.
Nov. 3, 10, 17: Knitting II—Working in the Round + Cables, Thursdays, 6-8 p.m.
Nov. 5: Vintage Tin Earrings, 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
Nov. 12: Copper Enameling, 11 a.m.-1 p.m.
Nov. 16: Suicide Loss Survivors, 5:30-7 p.m.
Nov. 18: Craft Beer & Clay, 7-9 p.m.
Nov. 19: Quirky Turkeys (ages 5-12), 10:30 a.m.-12 p.m.
Nov. 21, 22, 28: Talkin Turkey (ages 5-12), 9 a.m.-3 p.m.
Nov. 21-Dec. 5: Meditations in Charcoal and Conté, Mondays, 2:30-5 p.m.

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

Nov. 3: Just Wing It, 6-9 p.m.
Nov. 6: All About the Gut, 2 p.m.
Nov. 18: Sicilian Holiday at Home, 6-9 p.m.

Dauphin County Library System
dcls.org

Nov. 3: Dungeons and Dragons on Zoom, 7-8:30 p.m.
Nov. 8, 15, 22, 29: Born to Read, 9:30 a.m., 10:15 a.m.
Nov. 8, 15, 22, 29: All Ages Storytime 6-6:30 p.m.
Nov. 9, 16, 23, 30: Toddler Storytime, 11-11:40 a.m.
Nov. 12, 19: Jump Into Graphic Novels, 2-3 p.m.
Nov. 18, 25, 22: Preschool Storytime, 11-11:40 a.m.

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

Nov. 4, 11, 18: Tween Dungeons and Dragons on Zoom (ages 10-12), 4-5 p.m.
Nov. 9, 16, 23, 30: Toddler Storytime (ages 19-35 months), 9:30-10:10 a.m.
Nov. 11, 18, 25: Preschool Storytime (ages 3-5 years), 9:30-10:10 a.m.
Nov. 11, 18, 25: Teen Dungeons and Dragons on Zoom (ages 13-18), 4-5 p.m.
Nov. 3, 10, 17: Anime Club (ages 13-18), 4-5 p.m.
Nov. 7, 14, 21, 28: Born to Read (birth-18 months), 9:30-10 a.m.
Nov. 7, 14, 21, 28: All Ages Storytime, 11-11:30 a.m.
Nov. 7, 14, 21, 18: Paws 2 Read, 6-7:30 p.m.
Nov. 12: Reading the Rainbow Book Club, 11 a.m.-12 p.m.
Nov. 12, 19: Jump Into Graphic Novels, 2-3 p.m.
Nov. 17: Sip & Speak, 3-4:30 p.m.

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

Nov. 1: American Girl Book Club, 4:30-5:30 p.m.
Nov. 3, 10, 17, 24: Fiber Artists, 3-5 p.m.
Nov. 11: Homeschool Connection, 10:30 a.m.
Nov. 12: Fiber Artists, 10 a.m.- 2 p.m.
Nov. 12: LEGO Club, 11 a.m.-12 p.m.
Nov. 15: Musik Time, 10:30-11:30 a.m.
Nov. 19: Book Discussion Group, 10-11 a.m.
Nov. 24: Knitter’s Group, 5-7 p.m.

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

Nov. 2, 3: Homeschoolers’ Day, 10 a.m.-2 p.m.
Nov. 5: Native Americans Along the Susquehanna Family Program, 10-11:30 a.m.
Nov. 6: Intro to Letterboxing Family Program, 2-3:30 p.m.
Nov. 8, 15: Intro to Knitting 2-Part Workshop, 6:30-7:30 p.m.
Nov. 9: Virtual Illustrated Lecture— Reflecting on 16 Decades of the Harrisburg State Hospital, 7-8 p.m.
Nov. 10: Fascinator Workshop, 5:30-8 p.m.

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

Nov. 1: STEAM Storytime & Object Discovery Zone, 1 p.m. and 6 p.m.
Nov. 1: Curl up with the Classics—“The Mutiny on Board H.M.S. Bounty,” 10-11 a.m.
Nov. 1, 15: READ to Dogs, 6:30-8 p.m.
Nov. 2: Moving Forward Book Group w/ Hospice of Central PA, 1-2 p.m.
Nov. 2: Teen STEAM Meetup, 4-5:30 p.m.
Nov. 2, 9, 16: Children’s Story Time, 11-11:30 a.m.
Nov. 3, 10: Language at the Library—Spanish, 10-11 a.m.
Nov. 4: Chess Club, 6:30 p.m.
Nov. 7, 14, 21, 28: Baby & Toddler Time, 10-10:30 a.m.
Nov. 8: Teen Writers’ Meetup, 6-8 p.m.
Nov. 5: Paint with Us 2022—Thankful, 1-3 p.m.
Nov. 6: Paint with Us, 1-3 p.m.
Nov. 11: Peaceful Poses Yoga Storytime, 10-10:45 a.m.
Nov. 12: Teen Crafternoon, 1-2:30 p.m.
Nov. 12: Young Explorers (ages 5-8), 1:30-2:30 p.m.
Nov. 13: Teen Movies, 1:30-3:30 p.m.
Nov. 14, 21, 28: Mission Transition Kindergarten, 6-7 p.m.
Nov. 18: Family Paint & Pix, 6-8 p.m.
Nov. 21: Frederickson Writes on Zoom, 6:45-8:45 p.m.
Nov. 28: Fredricksen Reads—“The Lost Family: How DNA Testing is Upending Who We Are,” 7-8 p.m.
Nov. 29: Tween LEGO Club, 6-7:30 p.m.

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

Nov. 5: Holiday Dress (ages 12+), 1-3 p.m.
Nov. 9: Charcuterie Board, 6-8 p.m.
Nov. 12: Wire Bonsai Christmas/Evergreen Tree (all ages), 11 a.m.-2 p.m.
Nov. 13: Paper Quilled Holiday Ornaments (ages 14+), 1-3 p.m.
Nov. 19: Christmas Gnome (ages 16+), 10 a.m.-12 p.m.
Nov. 19: Christmas Gnome (ages 8 – 15), 1-3 p.m.
Nov. 20: Holiday Wreath Workshop, 1-3 p.m.
Nov. 25: Paper Christmas Tree, 1-3 p.m.
Nov. 26: Holiday Still Life Open Studio Session, (ages 14+), 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

Hershey Area Art Association (HAAA)
hersheyart.org

Nov. 15-Dec. 20: Oil and Acrylic Painting, Tuesdays, 10 a.m.-1 p.m.

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

Nov. 1, 3, 8, 10, 15, 17, 22, 29: Penn State Hershey—Mothers & Babies, 10:15 a.m.
Nov. 1, 15, 29: Girls Who Code, 6 p.m.
Nov. 2: LEGO Club, 4 p.m.
Nov. 2: Medicare Information Session, 6 p.m.
Nov. 3, 17: Hershey Quilters, 12:30 p.m.
Nov. 5, 12: Chess Club, 1 p.m.
Nov. 7, 14, 21, 28: Books and Babies, 10:15 a.m.
Nov. 7, 21: Movie Monday, 3 p.m.
Nov. 8, 15, 22, 29: 1, 2, Whee!, 10:15 a.m.
Nov. 9, 30: Artisan Wednesday, 3 p.m.
Nov. 9, 30: Drop In DIY Greeting Cards, 6 p.m.
Nov. 10: Hershey Area Neighbors and Newcomers, 10:30 a.m.
Nov. 10, 17: Storytime for Everyone, 10:15 a.m.
Nov. 10, 17: Storytime for Everyone, 11 a.m.
Nov. 12: Cocoa Area Fiber Enthusiasts, 10 a.m.
Nov. 19: Friends’ Children’s Program—Mixed Media Make & Take (grades K-3), 2 p.m.
Nov. 19: Friends’ Children’s Program—Mixed Media Make & Take (grades 3+), 3 p.m.
Nov. 21: MOMS Club of Derry Township, 10 a.m.
Nov. 26: Fused Glass, 1 p.m.

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

Nov. 1: Teen Tuesday, 6-8:30 p.m.
Nov. 1, 8, 15, 22, 29: Tea & Stitches, 10 a.m.-12 p.m.
Nov. 2: Crazy 8s Math Club (grades 1-2), 4:30-5:15 p.m.
Nov. 2: Crazy 8s Math Club (grades 3-5), 4:30-5:15 p.m.
Nov. 2: Mad About Mysteries on Zoom, 7-8 p.m.
Nov. 3, 10, 17: Mah Jongg, 10 a.m.-1 p.m.
Nov. 4, 11, 18, 25: LEGO Time, 10:15-11:15 a.m.
Nov. 7, 14, 21, 28: Rhyme Time (18 months and older), 10:15-10:35 a.m.
Nov. 7, 14, 21, 28: Toddler Time (18 months-3 years), 10:45-11:05 a.m.
Nov. 7, 14, 21, 28: Storybook STEAM, 6-7 p.m.
Nov. 8: Tween Scene, 6-7 p.m.
Nov. 12, 26: Block Party, 10:30-11:30 a.m.
Nov. 14, 28: English Conversation Club, 6:30-7:30 p.m.
Nov. 16: Watch the Skies Sci-Fi Book Club, 7-9 p.m.
Nov. 17: Thursday Morning Book Club, 10-11 a.m.
Nov. 19: Discovery Club, 10:30-11:15 a.m.
Nov. 19: Adventure Club, 11:30 am.-12:15 p.m.
Nov. 19: Teen Squad Meeting, 3-4 p.m.
Nov. 21: Monday Night Book Club, 7 p.m.
Nov. 22: Tabletop Game Night, 6-8 p.m.
Nov. 26: Trivia at Home—Family Style, 6-8 p.m.

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

Nov. 3: Book Bingo, 5:30-6:30 p.m.
Nov. 9, 16, 23, 30: Paws 2 Read (ages 6-11), 5-6 p.m.
Nov. 10, 17: Jump Into Graphic Novels (ages 8-13), 5-6 p.m.
Nov. 10, 17, 24: All Ages Storytime, 10:15-10:45 a.m.

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

Nov. 2, 9, 16, 23, 30: Common Roads (ages 12-17), 6-8 p.m.
Nov. 5, 12, 19, 26: Passageways, 2 p.m.
Nov. 6, 13, 20, 27: Young Adult Group, 4 p.m.
Nov. 8, 22: Queers and Quests game night, 6 p.m.
Nov. 10: Aging with Pride Luncheon, 12 p.m.
Nov. 12: LGBTQ Book Club, 4:30-6:30 p.m.

Madeline L. Olewine Memorial Library
2410 N. 3rd St., Harrisburg
717-232-7286; dcls.org

Nov. 4, 11, 18: Speech Links to Literacy (ages 3-5 years), 10:30 a.m.-12 p.m.
Nov. 8, 15, 22, 29: All Ages Storytime, 10:30-11 a.m.
Nov. 8, 15, 29: Girl Scouts—Academic Edge, 4-5 p.m.
Nov. 12: Chess and Go Club, 11 a.m.-1 p.m.

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

Nov. 2, 9, 16, 23, 30: Teen Podcast (ages 13-28), 5-6 p.m.
Nov. 28: Girls Who Code (grades 3-5), 5-6 p.m.

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

Nov. 1, 8, 15, 22, 29: Storytime and Craft, 10:30-11:30 a.m.
Nov. 1, 8, 15, 22, 29: Tales with T.A.I.L.S., 6-7 p.m.
Nov. 3, 10, 17: LEGO Club, 6:30-7:30 p.m.
Nov. 4, 11, 18, 25: Star Trek Rewatch online group
Nov. 4, 11, 18, 25: Online Science Fiction Book Club
Nov. 7, 14, 21, 28: STEM Club, 6:30-7:30 p.m.

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

Nov. 8: An Evening with Lisa McNair, 7-8 p.m.
Nov. 8: Kate Baer with Nora McInerny, 7-8 p.m.

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

Nov. 5: Advanced Fluid Art Class, 12-4 p.m.
Nov. 5: First Saturday, 2-5 p.m.

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

Nov. 5: The Civil War in Maryland Reconsidered, 1-2 p.m.

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

Nov. 5: Mixed Media Gelli Print Workshop, 1-3 p.m.
Nov. 19: Block Print Holiday Card Workshop, 10 a.m.-12 p.m.

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

Nov. 1: Musical Mornings (ages 2-5), 10:30-11 a.m.
Nov. 1: Teen Craft & Coloring (ages 12-15), 3:30-4:30 p.m.
Nov. 1-30: Beanstack Challenge—Hallow-Read (ages 0-18)
Nov. 1-Dec. 31: Holiday Scavenger Hunt
Nov. 3: Ruth’s Mystery Discussion Group, 10:15 a.m.-12 p.m.
Nov. 3, 17: Block Party! (ages 0-3), 10:30-11:30 a.m.
Nov. 5, 19: Library Book Sales, 9 a.m.-3 p.m.
Nov. 7: Monday Great Books Discussion Group, 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
Nov. 7, 14, 21, 28: Storytime & More (ages 2-5), 10:30 a.m.
Nov. 8: Tales for Tails (ages 6-12), 6:30-7:30 p.m.
Nov. 8, 15, 22, 29: Book Babies (ages 0-2), 11:15 a.m.
Nov. 11: Movers & Groovers (ages 2-5), 10:30-11 a.m.
Nov. 13: Friends Cultural Series—A history of Mt. Olivet Cemetery, 3 p.m.
Nov. 14: Gratitude Storytime & Craft (ages 3-7), 5:30 p.m.
Nov. 15: Book Review Program, 10:30-11:30 a.m.
Nov. 15: Teen Game Party (ages 12-15), 3:30-4:30 p.m.
Nov. 16: Kid Builders (ages 3 and older), 5:30-6:30 p.m.
Nov. 19: Couponing for Extreme Savings, 11 a.m.-12 p.m.
Nov. 19: Children’s Book Writers Critique Group, 2-4 p.m.
Nov. 21: Special Thanksgiving Storytime, 6 p.m.
Nov. 26: Crafty Crafters Club, 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
Nov. 30: KIND Club (ages 8-12), 5:30 p.m.
Nov. 30: PennWriters Writing Group, 6-9 p.m.

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

Nov. 2: Explore! Black Bears, 11:30 a.m.
Nov. 2-30: “The Zula Patrol—Down to Earth”
Nov. 2-30: “Beyond the Sun”
Nov. 2-30: Highlights Tour, 1:30-2:30 p.m. (Wednesdays-Sundays)
Nov. 3: Family Gallery Tour—Paleontology, 11:30 a.m.
Nov. 4: Constellations, 12 p.m.
Nov. 4: Art of the State Exhibition Tour, 12:15 p.m.
Nov. 4: Virtual Program—The Secret Life of the Wild Turkey, 12:15 p.m.
Nov. 4, 19: Storytime, 10:30 a.m.
Nov. 9: Homeschool Programs—Woven Arts Domesticity and Creativity, 10 a.m.
Nov. 10: Curiosity Kids—Communication, 11:30 a.m.
Nov. 11: Veterans Day Program, 11 a.m.
Nov. 16: Explore! Coal, 11:30 a.m.
Nov. 17: Curiosity Kids—SHAPES featuring Art of the State, 11:30 a.m.
Nov. 23: Family Friendly Tour—Transportation, 11:30 a.m.
Nov. 30: Family Gallery Tour—Mammal Hall, 11:30 a.m.

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

Nov. 9: Foundations of Drawing, 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
Nov. 12: Kid’s Art Club—Printmaking (ages 5-8), 7-9 p.m.

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

Nov. 4: Resin Tray Workshop, 7-9 p.m.
Nov. 12: Second Saturday, Clay Ornaments Workshop and Pinch Pot Lanterns, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.
Nov. 18: Paint Party, 6-8 p.m.

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

Nov. 3, 10, 17: Cat in the Hat Learning Series, 10-10:45 a.m.
Nov. 5: Art in the Wild Workshop, 9 a.m.-12 p.m.
Nov. 5: Cadette Girl Scouts—Trees, 10 a.m.-1:30 p.m.
Nov. 8: Persimmon Walk, 1-2:30 p.m.
Nov. 12: Volunteer Work Day, 10 a.m.-1 p.m.
Nov. 12: Kids Discover—What Do Animals Eat? (ages 5-10), 1-2:30 p.m.
Nov. 15: Wild Recipes—Fall Foraging in Your Backyard, 6-7:30 p.m.
Nov. 17: Waterfowl Walk, 8-10 a.m.
Nov. 19: Kids Discover—Ducks (ages 5-10), 10-11:30 a.m.
Nov. 22: Kids Discover—Turkey Talk (ages 2-5), 10-11:30 a.m.

Live Music

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

Nov. 1: Joe Satriani
Nov. 4: Jazz In The City
Nov. 6: Lindsey Buckingham
Nov. 11: Darlingside
Nov. 12: York Symphony
Nov. 17: Gladys Knight
Nov. 18: Britain’s Finest—The Complete Beatles Experience
Nov. 19: Black Violin
Nov. 26: York Symphony

Arts on the Square
Market Square Presbyterian Church
20 S. 2nd St., Harrisburg, marketsquarechurch.org

Nov. 18: Romance of the Violin

Boneshire Brew Works
7462 Derry St., Harrisburg
717-469-5007; boneshire.com

Nov. 17: Ragged Grace

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

Nov. 12: A Tribute to John Denver w/Chris Collins and Boulder Canyon
Nov. 18: Beginnings—A Celebration of the Music of Chicago

Central Pennsylvania Womyn’s Chorus
cpwchorus.org

Nov. 19: Fall Concert at Unitarian Church of Harrisburg
Nov. 20: Fall Concert at Camp Hill Presbyterian Church

Elizabethtown College
1 Alpha Dr., Elizabethtown
717-361-1212; www.etown.edu

Nov. 14: Frances Borowsky and Justin Badgerow
Nov. 20: Elizabeth College Symphonic Band Concert

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

Nov. 3: The Linda Ronstadt Experience
Nov. 4: The Uptown Band
Nov. 5: U2topia—Tribute to U2
Nov. 11: Cabinet
Nov. 18: The Clarks
Nov. 19: Sugar Mountain—A Tribute to Neil Young
Nov. 23: Shea Quinn’s The Band Who Sold The World

Greystone Public House
2120 Colonial Rd., Harrisburg
717-829-9952; www.greystonepa.com

Nov. 3: Keara Rose
Nov. 10: SOC Duo
Nov. 17: Zach Nyce

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

Nov. 3: Blanco Brown
Nov. 4: Jeremy McComb
Nov. 5: Slaughter to Prevail
Nov. 10: Celtica Nova
Nov. 11: Kota the Friend
Nov. 11; The Mahones
Nov. 12: Bark at the Moon, Obey Your Master
Nov. 12: Gasolina Party
Nov. 13: Katatonia
Nov. 16: Makeout
Nov. 17: Phillip Phillips
Nov. 18: Matt Stell
Nov. 19: Moon Hooch
Nov. 26: Bone Thugs-N-Harmony

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

Nov. 5-6: The Great Ladies of Jazz
Nov. 18: Fall Young Persons’ Concert
Nov. 19-20: Looking Forward, Looking Back

Harrisburg University Presents
concertseries.harrisburgu.edu

Nov. 11: Teddy Swims & Freak Freely at XL Live
Nov. 16: Charley Crockett at XL Live
Nov. 21: Turnstile, Snail Mail at XL Live

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

Nov. 11: Kip Moore
Nov. 18: Harry Connick, Jr.

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

Nov. 4: Vertigo Vultures
Nov. 5: U2 Decades U2 by UV
Nov. 11: Cazhmiere
Nov. 12: Vinyl Groov
Nov. 18: Colt Wilbur Band
Nov. 19: The Big House Band
Nov. 23: Liquid A
Nov. 25: The Luv Gods
Nov. 26: Smooth Like Clyde

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

Nov. 3: Kansas
Nov. 13: Shippensburg University Brass Ensemble
Nov. 20: Shippensburg University Community Orchestra and Concert Choir

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

Nov. 4: EnVaGe Chamber Ensemble
Nov. 18: Wind Symphony Concert
Nov. 21: Soweto Gospel Choir

Market Square Concerts
www.marketsquareconcerts.org

Nov. 3: Israeli Chamber Project

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

Nov. 5: Messiah University Percussion Ensemble
Nov. 8: Messiah University Jazz Combo
Nov. 11: Messiah University Wind Ensemble & Symphonic Winds
Nov. 13: Messiah University United Voices of Praise
Nov. 14, 21: Messiah University Chamber Ensembles
Nov. 15: Messiah University Brass Choir & Brass Studios
Nov. 19: Messiah University Symphony Orchestra
Nov. 19: Sohoko Sato Timpone

Pine Street Presbyterian Church
310 N. 3rd St., Harrisburg
717-238-9304; pinestreet.org

Nov. 18: Benjamin Pila

Rusty Rail Brewing Company
5 N. 8th North St., Mifflinburg
570-966-7878; rustyrailbrewing.com

Nov. 3: The Roof

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

Nov. 20: Youth Choral Festival

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

Nov. 6: John McCutcheon
Nov. 13: November Jam & Song Swap
Nov. 20: Slocan Ramblers

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

Nov. 5: Dezron Douglas Quartet

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

Nov. 23: The Machine Performs Pink Floyd
Nov. 25: Chelsey Green & the Green Project

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

Nov. 3: Rakim
Nov. 4: Crack the Sky
Nov. 5: Adrian Pradhan
Nov. 10: Black Flag, TSOL, The Dickies, Total Chaos
Nov. 11: HU presents Teddy Swims, Freak Freely
Nov. 12: Trouble No More, The Harlem Gospel Travelers
Nov. 16: Charley Crockett
Nov. 18: Sunsquabi, Lespecial
Nov. 19: Bowman, Rebecca Moreland
Nov. 21: Turnstile, Snail Mail
Nov. 22: Dark Star Orchestra
Nov. 23: Yam Yam
Nov. 25: Kix

The Stage Door

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

Nov. 8-Dec. 30: The 2022 Christmas Show—“Home for the Holidays”

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

Nov. 18: Zack Johnson, Bob Lauver, Audrie Marsh

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

Nov. 1-12: “Saturday Night Fever”
Nov. 18-Jan. 8: “Elf the Musical”

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

Nov. 5-27: “Innocent Merriment; Or, An Evening with Gilbert & Sullivan!”
Nov. 17: TMI Improv

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

Nov 13: Queens Who Brunch

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

Nov. 4-6: “Adventures of a Comic Book Artist”
Nov. 11-13: “Anne of Green Gables”
Nov. 11-13: “Cinderella”

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

Nov. 4, 5: Raymond the Amish Comic
Nov. 18, 19: John Moses and Grady Pruitt
Nov. 25, 26: Kevin Lee and Cory Hunter

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

Nov. 4: Free Improv Jam, Ham Juice, 7th Kevin, Heart Throbs, Nuclear Family, The Offbeats, Humpday Momentus
Nov. 5: Free Mixer, Solo Sleepover, Beautiful Baby, Love Triangle, Barn Bitches, The Renegades, Uncomfortable
Nov. 11: Free Improv Jam, House Team Z, Chill Karen, Bandito, Leg of Lamp
Nov. 12: Free Mixer, This Show Will Self Destruct, The Bat, Barbara, Tiny French Cigarettes
Nov. 18: Level 1 Class Show, Ham Juice, 7th Kevin, Cosmic Trash, Mane n’ Tail
Nov. 19: Free Mixer, Sunday School, The Bondfire Society, Rockstar Goes Supernova
Nov. 20: Level 1 Class Show
Nov. 25: Free Improv Jam, House Team Z, Chill Karen, Midtown Funk, Merely Players
Nov. 26: Free Mixer, Snicker Casket, Sugar Weasel, Elderprov, The Original Six

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

Nov. 3-6: “Sweeny Todd—The Demon Barber of Fleet Street”

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

Nov. 2-3: Taylor Tomlinson
Nov. 6: “Sleeping Beauty” with The State Ballet Theatre of Ukraine
Nov. 10: Randy Rainbow
Nov. 21: “The Illusionists—Magic of the Holidays”
Nov. 23: Alton Brown Live—“Beyond the Eats, The Holiday Variant”
Nov. 29-Dec. 1: “Bluey’s Big Play the Stage Show”

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

Nov. 5-19: “Goldilocks and the 3 Bears”

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

Nov. 27-Dec. 12: “A Little Women Christmas”

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

Nov. 5: “Baby Shark LIVE!”
Nov. 8: “The Nutcracker”
Nov. 10: “Fiddler on the Roof”
Nov. 12: Jim Breuer
Nov. 26: “A Very Electric Christmas”

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

Nov. 10-13: “Shakespeare in Love”

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

Nov. 10-20: “Steel Magnolias”

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

Nov. 4: EFF Live!
Nov. 9: Black NewsBeat w/Dr. Kimeka Campbell
Nov. 26-Dec. 22: “Who’s Holiday!”

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

Nov. 4-20: “The Laramie Project”

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

Nov. 4-20: “Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat” (at Whitaker Center)

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

Nov. 10: “Distant Thunder”
Nov. 11: WriteFace & South Central PaARTners Veterans’ Values & Voices

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

Nov. 4-20: “Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat” (Theatre Harrisburg)

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

Night Watch: Volunteers dedicate 25 years of research to PA’s tiniest owls

October 31, 2022 | by Karen Hendricks

Photo courtesy Ned Smith Center for Art and Nature’s Saw-Whet Owl Research Project.

It felt like a mysterious meeting of a secret club.

One of the first rules? We had to arrive before sunset. Seven of us gathered in cabin No. 4, deep in the woods of northern Dauphin County. There was a full moon rising.

It was Oct. 10—the first meeting of the season—and there was excitement in the air. But the big question: Would there be owls in the air that night, too?

The all-volunteer group laid the groundwork to find out. They assembled four “mist nets,” each one measuring 30 feet long and eight feet high, creating a nearly invisible wall in the forest. Three rows of pockets neatly lined the nets.

Time for the lure. One of the volunteers pressed “play,” and the high, whistled toot of a male northern saw-whet owl filled the air. Pennsylvania’s tiniest owl got its name from this sound—similar to the sharpening of a saw. OK, many of us don’t have that frame of reference. Here’s another: It also sounds like the warning “beeps” of a truck backing up.

Two small speakers, aimed at the treetops, broadcast the audio lure in 30-second increments on a continuously looping, battery-powered MP3 player placed in a small lunch cooler to keep it insulated from the rapidly dropping temperatures.

Back inside the cabin, tools were readied—rulers and a scale for measurements, tiny silver tracking bands and pliers, an eye color chart created from yellow Benjamin Moore paint chips, and a giant data log where tonight’s weather conditions were meticulously recorded.

All set. Now it was time to wait.

For the Birds

One of the smallest owls in the world, the northern saw-whet is about the size of a soda can.

“Saw-whet owls were once considered rare, because they’re so secretive and elusive, being nocturnal,” said Sandy Lockerman of Harrisburg, project leader.

Lockerman, a retired Wildwood Park environmental educator, has volunteered with the Ned Smith Center for Nature and Art’s Saw-Whet Owl Research Project since the beginning.

“The center heard about a project in Wisconsin, catching saw-whet owls migrating in October and November,” said Lockerman. “At the time, Pennsylvania’s documentation said they didn’t migrate.”

That’s because the little owls were a big mystery. Researchers didn’t know their numbers or migratory patterns. But they had a theory.

Could saw-whet owls be migrating through northern Dauphin County, along Pennsylvania’s primary migratory corridor—the Kittatinny Ridge?

“There were six of us who started the project. It was primitive at first. We put out a net and a boom box with the call, up on Mahantango Mountain above Millersburg,” Lockerman said. “We caught 27, and that got us all excited.”

The following year, the project shifted to Berry Mountain, then to Small Valley—where we were tonight—a Girl Scout camp with a Halifax address.

What attracts volunteers to staff the research project, seven nights a week, from sunset past midnight, every October and November?

It’s the Little Things

“I’m excited to get connected to nature again, hands-on,” said Elizabeth Hanson of Harrisburg. She’s a land steward for The Nature Conservancy, but she previously worked in zoos and animal sanctuaries.

Hanson came prepared—with a heated vest—since the cabin itself wasn’t heated.

“It’s exciting to be part of the biggest project on this species in the country,” said James Harbert of Halifax, a five-year volunteer. He has two connections to nature—his position with the Pennsylvania Game Commission and his wife Kayla, sitting next to him.

“It’s really rewarding to see how many owls are out there and to be part of a research project,” said Kayla, manager of three northern Dauphin County parks, in her day job. “The look on someone’s face when they see an owl for the first time—it’s priceless—you just have to smile.”

That’s a sight that us newbies hope to see tonight—myself, along with brand-new volunteer Erin Conway of Harrisburg.

“I’ve actually done mist-netting before, in the Galápagos with finches,” said Conway, an educator with the project’s sponsoring Ned Smith Center. “I’m excited to learn how to handle the owls and to see Sandy at work, since she’s been doing it so long.”

Over the years, Lockerman and lead investigator Scott Weidensaul created a protocol and established two additional central Pennsylvania sites—Cumberland County’s Kings Gap and Schuylkill County’s Hidden Valley Golf Course.

The project has swelled to 80 volunteers from all walks of life. Some, like Lockerman, are trained “master banders” licensed by the federal Bird Banding Laboratory. Today, Weidensaul is co-director of Project Owlnet, which links saw-whet owl data gathered from 125 North American sites, including Small Valley.

What have researchers learned about this elusive, enigmatic species, from their late-night studies?

Plentiful in PA

“The Game Commission originally listed the saw-whet owl’s status as ‘undetermined,’ but once we got rolling [with the project], they changed the status to ‘common, but seldom seen,’” Lockerman said. “We proved they existed in Pennsylvania—and in greater numbers than originally thought.”

Every fall, volunteers harmlessly catch and release between 200 and 300 owls at Small Valley. Some birds already have bands from previous sites, as far north as Canada.

“This information goes out worldwide and fits into the conservation piece of our mission,” said John Booth, executive director at the Ned Smith Center, a nonprofit dedicated to honoring the legacy of renowned wildlife artist, naturalist and writer Ned Smith.

All told, volunteers have banded a total of 11,000 owls across central Pennsylvania’s three sites in 25 years. From Dauphin County, they’ve taken flight into Georgia, Alabama, even Texas.

“I’m absolutely blown away by how small, beautiful and delicate these owls are, but also how feisty they are, clicking their bills. They’re really exciting to see,” Booth said. “To stand over Sandy’s shoulder as she’s taking all the readings and measurements—it’s an experience in education, but you also see how cute these owls are. I had no idea these birds were around, and I’m sure most people don’t.”

By the time you’re reading this, volunteers are likely catching and releasing four or five owls, every night—except, it turns out, for nights like Oct. 10, when the moon is full.

“We’ve gone back through the data, and it shows that, on nights with fuller moons, we have fewer owls,” Lockerman said. “We’re thinking that maybe because it’s so bright out, the smaller owls aren’t flying because larger owls [like great horned and barred owls] will see them, catch and eat them.”

Still, every hour, we strapped on headlamps and hiked through the woods to check the nets. The group’s hope and anticipation waned through the night, until our final check at midnight. There would be no tiny owls that night. But it was apparent there was a great deal of devotion for the project—along with a growing body of research—starting to solve some of nature’s best-kept secrets.

And so, we called it a night. It turns out we were the only night owls, that night.

To learn more about Sandy Lockerman’s fascinating experiences with owls, tune into TheBurg Podcast’s November episode, available on Friday, Nov. 11. For more information on the Ned Smith Center for Nature and Art and their Saw-Whet Owl Research Project, visit nedsmithcenter.org.

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

Community Corner: Notable November Events

October 31, 2022 | by Missy Smith

Homeschoolers’ Days
Nov. 2, 3: Students in grades 2-6 and their parents are invited to Fort Hunter, 5300 N. Front St., Harrisburg, for a Native American workshop, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Students will explore how American Indians once lived in the Fort Hunter/Harrisburg area with hands-on activities and a tour of the Fort Hunter Mansion. www.forthunter.org

Dinner for a Cause
Nov. 3: Vision Resources of Central PA will host the 11th annual “Evening in the Shadows” at the Allenberry Carriage House, 1559 Boiling Springs Rd., for a multi-course dinner and blindness awareness event, beginning at 6 p.m. www.vrocp.org

Autos & Ales
Nov. 4: Join the AACA Museum, 161 Museum Dr., Hershey, for Autos & Ales, with regional breweries, dozens of craft beers for sampling, live music, a catered dinner and the event’s signature beer brewed by Englewood Brewing, 6 to 10 p.m. www.aacamuseum.org

Native History
Nov. 5: Experience what life was like for Native Americans living along the Susquehanna River at Fort Hunter Centennial Barn, 5300 N. Front St., Harrisburg, 10 to 11:30 a.m. Adults and children can hear stories, play games, explore a wigwam and handle artifacts. www.forthunter.org

Ornaments Workshop
Nov. 5: Join the Penn State Extension Master Gardeners of Cumberland County for their Wildlife Tree Ornaments Workshop at Penn State Extension office, 310 Allen Rd., Carlisle, 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. Youth ages 5 to 14 can make and take home feeders and natural ornaments. Workshop fee is $10 and includes supplies. www.extension.psu.edu

HBG Flea
Nov. 5: 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

History Gala
Nov. 5: Support local history by attending the Hershey History Center’s Preservation Gala. The event begins at 6 p.m. at the new Hershey Fresh Market, 121 Towne Square Dr., Hershey. Purchase tickets online at Auctria.events/HHC2022PreservationEvent or visit www.HersheyHistory.org.

20 in Their 20s
Nov. 9: Harrisburg Young Professionals honors “20 in Their 20s,” 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. 10: Build new relationships with local business professionals at the West Shore Chamber of Commerce’s November evening networking mixer, 5 to 7 p.m., at AES Hearth & Patio, 4303 Carlisle Pike, Camp Hill. The event is free and open to chamber members. www.wschamber.org

Food Rally
Nov. 10: 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

Curiosity Kids
Nov. 10, 17: Kids ages 3 to 6 are invited to Curiosity Kids to explore communication on Nov. 10 and shapes in “Art of the State” on Nov. 17, at the State Museum of Pennsylvania, 300 North St., Harrisburg, 11:30 a.m. to 12 p.m. Curiosity Kids events are included with museum general admission, but space is limited. www.statemuseumpa.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 5 p.m. www.nationalcivilwarmuseum.org

Ladies’ Night
Nov. 11: Get together with friends for Ladies’ Night Out to have fun exploring Newport’s downtown businesses and local eateries, while getting some holiday shopping done, 6 to 9 p.m. Dress up in this year’s theme as “Rosie the Riveter.” www.perrycountyarts.org

Craft Show
Nov. 11-12: 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

Volunteer Work Day
Nov. 12: Head to Wildwood Park, 100 Wildwood Way, Harrisburg, to enjoy the outdoors and help with continuing park and habitat enhancement projects, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Tools and work gloves provided. Pre-registration required. www.explorewildwoodpark.org

Harrisburg Marathon
Nov. 13: Celebrate 50 years of the Enders Harrisburg Marathon at the biggest running event in the central Pennsylvania area, with thousands of runners and spectators, 7:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. This fast, flat marathon winds through urban streets, forested paths, across bridges and through natural features unique to the capital city. www.ymcarun.com

Lecture & Signing
Nov. 14: Milton Hershey School welcomes Pulitzer Prize-winning authors Andrea Elliott and Trymaine Lee to campus for a community lecture and book signing event at 6 p.m. in Milton Hershey School Founders Hall, 801 Spartan Lane, Hershey. Elliot wrote the 2021 national best-selling book, “Invisible Child: Poverty, Survival and Hope in an American City” and fellow author Trymaine Lee is an MHS alumnus. Tickets are free but registration is required. https://www.eventbrite.com/e/in-conversation-with-andrea-elliott-and-trymaine-lee-tickets-445284185987

Health Presentations
Nov. 15 & 16: Penn State Health will host “Information for Dementia Caregivers,” educational sessions for people caring for someone suffering from Alzheimer’s disease or other dementias. The sessions will offer tips, community resources and practical tools at three locations in central PA, including in Hershey. www.agefriendlycare.psu.edu/dementia

Take a Hike
Nov. 17: Grab your hiking boots, family and friends for National Take a Hike Day at Detweiler Park or Fort Hunter Conservancy, 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

3rd in The Burg
Nov. 18: 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

Holiday Parade
Nov. 19: Enjoy Harrisburg’s annual holiday parade with marching bands, giant parade balloons, dance performances, decorated floats, characters, Santa Claus and more. After the parade, head to Strawberry Square to meet Santa and enjoy hot chocolate and cookies. www.harrisburgpa.gov

Historic Tours
Nov. 19: Join Historic Harrisburg Association for a walking tour of Old Uptown and the mansions of Cottage Ridge, 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. The tour begins at the Historic Donaldson Mansion, 2005 N. 3rd St., Harrisburg. www.historicharrisburg.org

Old House Fair
Nov. 19: Historic Harrisburg Association hosts the Old House Fair, 12 to 3 p.m., at the Historic Donaldson Mansion. Enjoy tours of the newly renovated mansion and shop a vendor fair with local craftsmen, artisans, contractors and old house restoration and repair vendors. Collect information, gather business cards and ask experts your questions. www.historicharrisburg.org

Monte Carlo Night
Nov. 19: Games of chance and casino excitement make their triumphant return to the Jewish Community Center, 3301 N. Front St, Harrisburg, at 7 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

Art Studio Tour
Nov. 19 & 20: The Foothills Artists will hold their 15th annual studio tour at six locations in and around Fairfield and Cashtown in Adams County, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Many types of art will be featured for viewing and for sale in the self-guided tour. www.foothillsartists.net

Youth Concert
Nov. 20: The Susquehanna Chorale and three of its educational choirs will hold their annual Youth Choral Festival at 4 p.m. at the High Center, Messiah University, Mechanicsburg. The concert will include selections from the traditional choral repertoire, spirituals and folk songs from around the world. www.susquehannachorale.org

Light Show
Nov. 25-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

Park Christmas
Nov. 26: Enjoy Christmas at the Park with craft and food vendors, live music and Santa, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Basom Park, 6972 Heister Valley Rd., Richfield. www.xmasinthepark.com

Odd Ones Bizarre
Nov. 26: 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. 26-29: Head to Wildwood Lake, 100 Wildwood Way, Harrisburg, 8:30 a.m. and 3 p.m., to make an evergreen wreath out of natural materials. The workshop cost is $30 per person, which includes supplies to make a wreath with natural decorations like cones, berries, nuts and seed pods. Bring personal work gloves and/or decorations. www.explorewildwoodpark.org

Festival of Trees
Nov. 26-Dec. 18: View Christmas trees decorated with handmade ornaments and trimmed by local garden clubs at the Fort Hunter Tavern House, 5300 N. Front St., Harrisburg, Saturdays and Sundays, 12:30 to 4:30 p.m. Trees will be up for raffle, and a selection of ornaments will be available for purchase. www.forthunter.org

Toy Train Exhibit
Nov. 26-Dec. 18: Keystone Model Railroad Historical Society returns to Fort Hunter Centennial Barn, 5300 N. Front St., Harrisburg, with a display of HO gauge trains that travel over a large layout representing communities in central PA, Saturdays and Sundays, 12:30 to 4:30 p.m. www.forthunter.org

U.S.-Mexico Relations
Nov. 29: Guadalupe Correa-Cabrera, associate professor at the Schar School of Policy and Government, George Mason University, will address U.S.-Mexico relations at a dinner at 6:30 p.m. at the Susquehanna Club, 5079 Mifflin Ave., New Cumberland. The event is hosted by the Foreign Policy Association of Central Pennsylvania. www.fpaharrisburg.org

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

Mind Your Businesses: A few things I’ve learned about small business in Harrisburg

October 31, 2022 | by Lawrance Binda

Illustration by Rich Hauck.

Harrisburg is a city of independent small businesses.

And that’s a good thing—and a bad thing.

It’s good because local people, with ties to the community, own most of the small businesses, as opposed to the same old chains offering the same old things. And it’s bad because it’s very hard to run a business successfully.

In recent months, Harrisburg small businesses have been in the news a lot—openings, closings, relocations and one very public implosion.

Since this is TheBurg’s annual “shop local” issue, I thought I’d share with readers a few things I’ve learned over the years as I’ve covered small businesses, spoken at length with their owners and co-owned one myself (this very publication).

Here are five things that you should keep in mind the next time you step into a Harrisburg shop, restaurant or other small business.

They’re fragile.

Most small businesses operate on a shoestring, some just weeks or months away from folding. Harrisburg is an especially tough place to succeed in business. The economy is thin, the customer base is relatively small, and a lot of residents don’t have a lot of disposable income. In recent years, it’s become even harder, as businesses have had to survive outrageous downtown parking rates and the loss of office workers due to the pandemic and work-from-home trend. Add inflation and a depleted workforce into this toxic mix, and I’m amazed we haven’t seen more failures. Even in the best of times, small business success is rare, and this is definitely not the best of times.

Looks can be deceiving.

Stroll into a Harrisburg business, and you may think—hey, this place looks great! The décor is lovely, the shelves are stocked, and the staff is friendly and helpful. The truth, though, may be another story entirely. Usually, the customer doesn’t see the turmoil just beneath the surface—all the work, the headaches, the constant worry about money. Don’t equate success with appearance. In fact, in Harrisburg, you should assume that a small business is struggling unless told otherwise.

Often, the owners are barely making it.

Most small business owners don’t expect to get rich. However, they would like to, at least, get by—doing something they love for a livable wage. Frequently, that’s not what happens. In order to survive, they tend to pay themselves last after all other expenses, taking whatever’s left, which may not be much. I speak from experience. I co-founded TheBurg in 2008 and didn’t draw my first regular pay until 2013. Many startup owners quickly find themselves back in the 9-to-5 because they can’t support themselves, much less their families, on what they earn from their small businesses.

Successful owners are Renaissance people.

Most small business owners do not set out to be business people. They’re chefs and bakers and craftspeople and, well, journalists. They don’t have MBAs from Wharton, but they do have a skill or product that they want to share with the world. So, when they start, they typically know little about the business side of their fledgling enterprise: finances, personnel, inventory, taxes, etc. Successful owners quickly realize that—as much as they like making cakes or selling clothes—operational capability and day-to-day execution are just as important as a quality product (maybe more so). The next time you walk into a Harrisburg small business, view it in a new light. Look at the owner as someone who not only cooks a tasty meal or makes great coffee, but who is smart, organized and dedicated enough to do something that’s hard as hell—running a small business successfully.

They need you!

Listening to a podcast recently, I heard it said that small businesses are the glue of a community. I agree. Unfortunately, this podcast also said that many are hurting, as they are here. So, this is a plea to support your local, independently owned businesses. Harrisburg is full of such places—terrific restaurants, coffee shops and stores, each offering unique products you won’t find in suburban chains. Small businesses also need the support of their government. In Harrisburg, this includes the commonwealth, which could help greatly by sending its people back to the office. It also means our local government, which should do everything in its power to encourage high-density residential development in the city’s endless acres of empty lots. Recently, I asked a café owner what she needed most to succeed. Her response: “Customers!”

Harrisburg’s small business owners are a rare breed. They’re willing to endure untold hardships, which, over the past few years, have only grown worse. Not all have made it. In fact, plenty haven’t. But those that have survived deserve our patronage, our loyalty and our admiration. They are the bedrock of this community.

Lawrance Binda is the co-publisher/editor-in-chief of TheBurg.

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