Harrisburg mayor, council to go back to court over mayor’s alleged contempt of agreement

March 9, 2026 | by Maddie Gittens

Dauphin County courthouse

Harrisburg’s mayor and City Council are slated to head back to court, putting a recent legal battle back on the table.

The Dauphin County Court of Common Pleas on Monday set a March 20 court date for Mayor Wanda Williams and council to appear in regard to a recent complaint by council alleging that Williams is in contempt of court.

On March 6, council filed a motion accusing Williams of not adhering to a legal agreement that the two legislative bodies came to in February. The agreement seemingly closed a legal battle that began with a lawsuit by Williams alleging that council acted outside its power by defunding several top city positions as part of the 2026 budget.

While Judge Jeffrey Engle sided with council earlier that month, shortly after, council and Williams agreed that council would re-fund several positions. Also in the stipulation, Williams agreed to get council approval for every department head hired in the city, a requirement that she and previous mayors had occasionally circumvented by giving directors “interim” titles.

However, in council’s recent contempt filing, they claim that Williams has not held up her side of the deal and has kept a director on staff without council approval.

Gloria Martin-Roberts, director of Harrisburg’s Department of Building and Housing Development, has served as an “interim” director since mid-2024, well past the 120 days in which directors can serve without council consent.

Council said that Martin-Roberts still remains in her position.

In council’s filing, it says that Williams told council that she would not bring Martin-Roberts before council for a vote, instead saying that she believed Martin-Roberts was “grandfathered” into her position.

Council’s attorney Casey Coyle said, in a letter to Williams’ council, that “grandfathering in” positions was not within the stipulation.

Council requested that, as a penalty, Williams be fined $1,000 every day that she is in non-compliance, paid out of her own pocket, with potential jail time if she does not comply within a 30-day period. Council also asked that Williams reimburse the city for her attorney fees as part of the ongoing litigation.

In a press release on Sunday, city Communications Director Mischelle Moyer said that the city was “surprised and disappointed” by the filing. Moyer said that council and Williams had several constructive conversations recently, during which she said that she would bring Martin-Roberts before council for a vote.

Moyer said that council members and Williams met last Monday and were scheduled to meet last Friday, but did not because the contempt motion was filed before the scheduled meeting.

“The residents of Harrisburg deserve a government that works together to solve problems,” said Williams, in a statement. “I have been clear that I am prepared to bring this position before City Council for a vote so that the matter can be addressed transparently and through the proper legislative process. Litigation should never replace communication when we have the ability to sit down and work through our differences.”

In Monday’s court order, Judge Engle said that Williams has 30 days to file her response to council’s motion and that an evidentiary hearing will take place March 20 at 1:30 p.m.

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Joy Ride: Families Invited to Pedal Past the Best of the ‘Burg at the Tour de Belt June 7

March 9, 2026 | by Admin

The Capital Area Greenbelt Association (CAGA) is rolling out a personal invitation: Join them for a “party on wheels” on Sunday, June 7th.

That’s when the 26th annual, family-friendly Tour de Belt (TDB) weaves its way through an 18-mile-long highlight reel of Harrisburg in all its early summertime glory.

CAGA–an all-volunteer nonprofit devoted to keeping the region moving, connected, clean and green–invites everyone to enjoy the ride: everyone from the tiniest trike riders to long-time retirees, from amateurs to pros, and from true-blue residents to inquisitive tourists.

CAGA Vice President Diane Kripas said she would be thrilled to break the 1,000-rider mark this year, touting it as the “most fun way to see the city.” The ride occurs rain or shine and begins and ends at HACC, starting at 9 am and ending in a high-spirited Finish Line Fest, complete with food trucks and fellowship.

CAGA President Doug Hill emphasized that Tour de Belt is the one and only fundraiser held each year for the Greenbelt, raising vital funds to “repair, maintain and expand” the leafy 20-mile loop nicknamed the “emerald necklace.” Every fresh-air fan who uses the trail has the opportunity to support it during TDB.

The TDB loop snakes through rustic nature trails, majestic urban cityscapes, glistening riverside views, and charming neighborhoods, with fully supported rest stops and the occasional strutting-geese obstacle course. Favorite destinations along the route include Wildwood Lake, Reservoir Park, the Five Senses Garden and the Farm Show Complex.

The ride is well staffed and safe, Kripas and Hill underscore, with 40 ride guides; frequent water stations; clean rest stops with fresh oranges, crackers, fig bars and other snacks donated by Karns; first aid stations; bike mechanics; and traffic support. There’s no need to puzzle out a map or decipher a byzantine route on your phone. Safety is the organizers’ number one priority. Strategic road closures are in effect so all is safe, especially along detours across busy city streets.

Hill, Kripas and event chair Doug Knauss send special thanks to municipal partners that include the City of Harrisburg, Paxtang and Penbrook boroughs, Susquehanna and Swatara townships, and Dauphin County. The goal is “No riders left behind,” Kripas said.

After participating in the event for nine years and chairing it for four, the state retiree said her favorite memories include seeing young parents pulling babies in trailers, and 80-somethings pedaling along with vigor, or at least, fortitude. She has seen 10-year-olds complete all 20 miles with gusto, and older bikers who struggle but still triumph. She also enjoys seeing hard-core cyclists, first-timers and people who never saw the city on two wheels before. She also enjoys seeing groups sporting matching themed shirts, like TDB regulars, the Dauphin County Parks and Recreation team. Hill shares her enthusiasm.

“My favorite memory of TDB is watching riders of every stripe – families, couples, bike clubs, church groups, fitness clubs and more, from the City, from the suburbs, and from across the country – sharing an early summer day on the trail,” Hill said. “It’s so good to see the connection of neighborhoods, nature, and community.”

Kripas said the route is mostly flat but the dreaded “mountain” at Reservoir Park looms large in her memory banks when she scaled it her first year with her then-15-year-old daughter.

She also embraces the connections she witnesses—neighbors greeting neighbors, annual riders reuniting, strangers meeting, and even our own residents seeing Harrisburg’s most breathtaking sites with fresh eyes. A majority of the trail is on dedicated paths with parts on local roads, she said. The trail is a mixture of paved, gravel, and crushed stone.

Hill also reassures riders that the Tour de Belt is not the Tour de France. It’s not a race…it’s a ride-at-your-own pace, hang-out-if-you-want, enjoy-the-ride experience.

“The TdB is a wonderful friends-and-family event, a great opportunity to be outdoors and see Harrisburg at its finest,” he said.

This year, the need for funds is heightened, as new construction by the PennDOT office building in south Harrisburg has caused a breach in the belt that CAGA volunteers are working to close.

Fortunately, the city gave CAGA’s “Buckle the Best” campaign a big push, in the form of a $750,000 grant from the state Department of Community and Economic Development, augmented by another $150,000 grant from the state Department of Conservation and Natural Resources.

Hill, as a diehard runner, walker and cyclist himself hailing from midtown Harrisburg, is one of the event’s biggest boosters: “Find a group of friends, have a wonderful day in the saddle, and join us in supporting the Capital Area Greenbelt.”

For more information about the Capital Area Greenbelt, visit www.caga.org.

Burg Review: Revenge is served hot, creatively, colorfully in Gamut’s “King Lear”

March 7, 2026 | by Gina Napoli

Gamut Theatre takes us to ancient Britain for Shakespeare’s tempestuous, epic tragedy, “King Lear,” spearheading themes of love, betrayal and revenge.

The Gamut cast and crew, directed by Thomas Weaver, bring us a stage version so gory and graphic that I’ve been asked to keep its three most brutal scenes a secret.

But I CAN tell you the visceral way those scenes made me feel, in all their forbidden grotesqueness, like a teen watching a horror movie alone in the basement after curfew. And with over three action-driven hours of “King Lear,” there’s plenty more I can share. So shut up your doors for the storm. You’re in for a wild night.

Gamut’s main stage turns itself tribal, set with makeshift wicker furniture and tattered coverings (scenic designer, Andrew Nyberg; props designer, Karen Ruch; scenic painter, Ian Potter), possibly symbolizing the temporary and delicate nature of King Lear’s power.

The contenders’ costumes (costume designer, Callie Lythgoe; assistant costume designer, Jen Kilander; costume crafts artisan, Rebekkah Hurlbert) give a nod to the movie “Braveheart,” with animal remnants splayed across tartan, and face paint smeared everywhere.

“King Lear” (Clark Nicholson) features a house divided as the main character holds a contest of love, pitting his daughters Goneril (Rachel Landon), Regan (Gabriella DeCarli), and Cordelia (Weimy Montero Candelario) against each other, competing for his love.

He transitions his kingdom to them – but only to the love contest victors, while the other daughter holds her own contest of love between the King of France (Marcus McGhee) and the Duke of Burgundy (Calian Byard).

Then there is the Earl of Gloucester (Jeff Wasileski), whose illegitimate son Edmund (Elizabeth Hood) intends to take the inheritance from the legitimate son, Edgar (Alex Winnick), who is pretending to be someone else.

Vicious conflict ensues as competing family dramas play out (fight director, Hood; fight captain, Sean Adams). You may want to wear a poncho if you sit in the front row (blood designer, Brianna Dow).

After King Lear retires, he goes mad. Nicholson expertly arcs this character from a ruler akin to the boss level of a video game to a loon clearly losing his faculties. (This sentiment hits home as my own parents dwell within that same life season, and I watch them spend my inheritance like dandelion seeds on a windy day.)

During Lear’s descent into madness, he spends more time with The Fool (Hope Mackenzie), who gives this play lissome flair with her nature-inspired dancing.

As rival sisters Goneril and Regan, who are sometimes each other’s advocates, I can’t decide which manipulative wench plays nastier, Landon or DeCarli. Both ladies approach their roles with delicious force, like each chomping at opposite ends of a juicy underbelly, both trying to eat the biggest share.

The way they run their husbands Albany (Diego Sandino) and Cornwall (Robert Campbell) inspires me to assert myself more fiercely within my own marital dynamic. As Edmund, Hood rivals the sisters’ intensity, wielding the bastard moniker like a verbal weapon, emerging as a powerful antagonist.

I’m not sure if Shakespeare originally wrote a dance number into this play, but it is one of my favorite scenes. Reminiscent of the aggressive haka dance, the onstage Gamut players channel their most belligerent ancestors with rhythmic, ritualistic dancing to penetrative music, vibrating and palpitating under the skin. (music composer, David Ramón Zayas; sound designer, Mike Banks).

In rivalry for my favorite scene is of the otherwise dignified Kent (Adams) insulting Oswald (Brennan Dickerson) in a spewing fountain of obscenities like Chevy Chase vilifying his boss in “National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation” after opening his jelly of the month Christmas bonus.

If you’re a fan of overly violent stories where only a few characters live until the end, and the remaining characters are missing a few body parts, get thee to Gamut Theatre to see “King Lear.” If ye fret about following The Bard’s iambic pentameter, known to be overly poetically flowery, ye need not understand word by word by word.

The actors use gestures, facial expressions, and stage movements to help you catch on why they’re fighting each other. You can also tune in to the digital program for a scene-by-scene synopsis. And if you didn’t like this review, bring your mace and club to my neighborhood and fight me.

“King Lear” runs March 7 to 29 at Gamut Theatre, 15. N. 4^th St., Harrisburg. For more information and tickets, visit https://www.gamuttheatre.org/lear.

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The Week that Was: News and features around Harrisburg

March 6, 2026 | by TheBurg Staff

Hope you’re all enjoying the cloudy day as we gear up for Harrisburg’s annual Ice & Fire Festival this weekend. We’re excited to participate ourselves. In front of our N. 3rd Street office, you’ll find an interactive ice sculpture that will allow you to pose as if you’re on the cover of TheBurg!

This week, we’ve been hard at work solidifying stories for next month’s print issue. On the daily news front, we’ve also been covering the latest stories around town—including an update on how City Council will treat “acting” director appointments moving forward, after settling a lawsuit with the mayor over disputed interim positions.

All weekly coverage is compiled for you below:

Art Association of Harrisburg is turning 100 this year. The organization reflects on its last century in our March magazine story.

City Council discussed new legislation that would stop the mayor from appointing department heads without their approval and clarify how long acting department heads can serve without its approval, our online story reported.

Gamut Theatre’s “King Lear” opens this weekend. Find the behind-the-scenes story of how the theater company put the play together in our March magazine story.

Harrisburg events, including a scavenger hunt celebrating Dr. Seuss’s birthday and St. Patty’s Parade downtown, around the area this March are all available for your viewing here, as seen in our March issue.

Harrisburg happenings at local arts organizations, public libraries, gardens and more are compiled here for your perusal, as seen in our March issue.

Ice & Fire Festival will return this weekend, bringing ice sculptures, food and music to Harrisburg. Read more here.

QTPOC Collective, an LGBT Center program for queer and trans people of color, is fostering community with regular meetups. See more March magazine story.

Sara Bozich has compiled the best events of the weekend in her Weekend Roundup, including PA Home & Garden Show and the Friends of New Cumberland Public Library Book & Media Sale. Check out the full list.

Whitaker Center offers weekend programming for Girl Scouts and Boy Scouts to earn badges. Read more in our March magazine story.

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Local group Strong Towns to host community discussion this week, part of its ongoing speakers series

March 6, 2026 | by Alexandra Jones

Strong Towns Q&A with Lancaster City Council member John Hursh (left) beside Strong Towns members Grant Elledge and Brandon Basom

With a series of planned community Q&As, local group Strong Towns Harrisburg is hoping to inspire positive change in the area.

“We’re focused on educating and activating residents of Harrisburg for the sake of the good of the city,” explained Grant Elledge, Strong Towns Harrisburg cofounder.

Elledge was one of three members who established Harrisburg’s chapter of the local Strong Towns movement in 2022. The national nonprofit has more than 290 chapters across the country, dedicated to growing towns with smart infrastructure decisions.

On Wednesday, he will moderate a discussion with Dauphin County Commission Chairman and U.S. congressional candidate Justin Douglas alongside two other Strong Towns members, who are taking questions from community members ahead of the event.

The event will take place on Wednesday, March 11 at 7 p.m. at Pursuit Coworking. The Democrat will speak to Harrisburg community members about working within bureaucratic systems to create change.

“We all interact with this kind of broader bureaucracy,” Elledge explained. “And a lot of people have experienced—and this isn’t unique to Harrisburg by any means—some frustration of just, ‘I want to see this thing change, but how would I even start going about figuring out how to do that?’”

This Q&A will mark Strong Town’s third speaker in the series. The group designed the series to engage people with elected representatives and other community stakeholders using hopeful, positive conversation.

It previously hosted then City Councilman-elect Rob Lawson and Lancaster City Council member John Hursh as guests.

Justin Douglas

For Wednesday’s event, Elledge said that the group is excited to host Douglas because he has the background to discuss the government at different levels.

He is informed both by his role chairing the Dauphin County Commission and his current candidacy in this year’s congressional election, running to unseat Rep. Scott Perry (R-10).

“He definitely has a unique vantage point,” said Elledge.

Elledge and other Strong Towns members are hoping the conversation will serve as a catalyst.

“We are hoping that people will feel the power to be able to pick up a particular project or a thing that they’re concerned about—whether that’s through the context of Strong Towns or totally unrelated to the rest of the group—and be able to get some traction,” he said.

Future Strong Towns Q&A panels are already planned for May and July.

They will feature Lawrance Binda, publisher of TheBurg, and Richard Farr, executive director of regional public transit provider rabbittransit.

Strong Towns is a national organization that encourages residents’ engagement with their towns for systemic change. To learn more about Strong HBG, visit its Facebook page.

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Weekend Roundup with Sara Bozich

March 5, 2026 | by Sara Bozich

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

What you’ll find below:

For something new: Hershey Theatre reopens today! Sunday Food Truck Night In SoMa start this weekend. Los Tres Cubanos Cigar Lounge is now open.

Worth noting: First Friday York; First Saturday at The Millworks; 9th annual Ice & Fire Festival in Downtown Harrisburg

Things on my agenda this weekend: Lots of local live theatre! Early bday dinner with the fam.

Thursday

Latte Art Workshop at Little Amps | $ | Harrisburg
Keystone Merge at Penn State College of Medicine | Free | Hershey
2026 PIAA Wrestling Championships at GIANT Center | $ | Hershey
PA Home & Garden Show at the PA Farm Show Complex | $ | Harrisburg
Jon and David Robinson at The Sturges Speakeasy | Free | Harrisburg
Shamrocks and Shenanigans Trivia Night at Gruver Farms | Free | New Cumberland
Neil Degrasse Tyson at Hershey Theatre | $ | Hershey
Open Mic & Jam | Thursdays | The Abbey Bar | Free | Harrisburg
Candlebox at Capital City Music Hall | $ | Harrisburg
The Phil Collins Story at American Music Theatre | $ | Lancaster

Friday

City Island Roller Rink | $ | Harrisburg
2026 PIAA Wrestling Championships at GIANT Center | $ | Hershey
PA Home & Garden Show at the PA Farm Show Complex | $ | Harrisburg
First Friday in Downtown York | Free | York
Cocktails & Cigars featuring Foundation Cigars and Dad’s Hat Rye Whiskey at The 611 Collection | Free | Mechanicsburg
open mic at Consciousness Coffee | Free | Lemoyne
TGIF: Cycle Express Radio Rides: Beyonce at H2L Studio | $ | Mechanicsburg
176ers Dueling Pianos debuts at Mad Moose! | Free | Harrisburg
Social Hours at The Willows at Ashcombe | Free | Mechanicsburg
Karaoke at Der Harrisburg Maennerchor | Free | Harrisburg
Haus of Monsters: America’s #1 Tribute to Lady Gaga at the West Shore Theatre | $ | New Cumberland
NYCHAPS March First Friday at Dill’s Tavern | $ | Dillsburg
80’s Prom Murder Mystery at The Vineyard at Hershey | $ | Middletown
FIRST FRIDAY with Hank The Buffalo at Horn Pub | Free | Lewisberry
Rich Vos at Harrisburg Comedy Zone | $ | New Cumberland
Glif CD Release Show at Capital City Music Hall | $ | Harrisburg
The Emo Night Tour at Capital City Music Hall | $ | Harrisburg
Flux Capacitor at The Abbey Bar | $ | Harrisburg
The Badlees – Night One! at The Englewood | $ | Hershey
Rockfest at XL Live | $ | Harrisburg
Danny Paisley and The Southern Grass at Mickey’s Black Box | $ | Lititz
Jesse Barki Album Release, w/ Special Guest Olivia Basar at West Art | $ | Lancaster
Vienna Boys Choir at American Music Theatre | $ | Lancaster
Stoney Brook – An Unauthorized Comedy Parody at Open Stage | $ | Harrisburg
Love, Loss, and What I Wore at Oyster Mill Playhouse | $ | Camp Hill
Murder at Mount Hope Mansion | $ | Manheim
Latin Fuzion Fridayz at Level 2 | Harrisburg

Saturday

Saturday Morning Yoga at Boneshire Brew Works | $ | Harrisburg
Ice & Fire Festival in Downtown Harrisburg | Free | Harrisburg
Artist Market at the 2026 Ice & Fire Festival | Free | Harrisburg
Harrisburg Beer Runners HBG Fire and Ice Festival Run & brunch and beer | Free | Harrisburg
First Saturdays at The Millworks | Free | Harrisburg
Huge Spring Book Sale at Red Land Community Library | Free | Etters
Friends of New Cumberland Public Library Book & Media Sale | Free | New Cumberland
PA Home & Garden Show at the PA Farm Show Complex | $ | Harrisburg
Popcorn Hat Players present Pinocchio at Gamut Theatre | $ | Harrisburg
Souper Saturday at Der Harrisburg Maennerchor | Free | Harrisburg
Kegs & Eggs – T.J. Rockwell’s Elizabethtown | Free | Elizabethtown
Reset at Source | $ | New Cumberland
Mellow + Sound: Freebird Yoga x Gruver Farms Collaboration | $ | New Cumberland
Get Fit Fest at Bethesda Mission Community Center | Free | Harrisburg
Local Artist & Maker Pop-Up @ Book Bar | Free | Palmyra
book club at Consciousness Coffee | Free | Lemoyne
FREE- Beginner Cycling Workshop at H2L Studio | Free | Mechanicsburg
Kid’s Yoga (Ages 5-10) at H2L Studio | $ | Mechanicsburg
Tween Yoga (10-13 Years of Age) at H2L Studio | $ | Mechanicsburg
Pizza and Wine Pairing at Gruver Farms | Free | New Cumberland
Tours and Tastings at the Eichelberger Distillery | $ | Dillsburg
CARLISLE – MID ATLANTIC REPTILE EXPO at the Carlisle Expo Center | $ | Carlisle
2026 PIAA Wrestling Championships at GIANT Center | $ | Hershey
Ladies’ Night at Live In Color | Free | Camp Hill
it’s coffee time – drag style at Consciousness Coffee | $ | Lemoyne
Rich Vos at Harrisburg Comedy Zone | $ | Harrisburg
Full Moon Comedy at Pennsylvania Renaissance Faire | $ | Manheim
Best Shot: A Tribute to Pat Benatar & Women Who Rock at the West Shore Theatre | $ | New Cumberland
The Badlees – Night Two! at The Englewood | $ | Hershey
Tupelo Honey: A Van Morrison Celebration at Whitaker Center | $ | Harrisburg
Grohl Fest – Celebrating the music of Foo Fighters & Nirvana at Mickey’s Black Box | $ | Lititz
The Pietasters at Capital City Music Hall | $ | Harrisburg
Ballyhoo Artikal Sound System at XL Live | $ | Harrisburg
Stoney Brook – An Unauthorized Comedy Parody at Open Stage | $ | Harrisburg
King Lear opens at Gamut Theatre | $ | Harrisburg
Love, Loss, and What I Wore at Oyster Mill Playhouse | $ | Camp Hill
Murder at Mount Hope Mansion | $ | Manheim
Ciroc Saturdays at Level 2 | Harrisburg
Brewery Tours: York City Walking Tour | $ | York
Brewery Tours: Cruise York County | $ | York
Brewery Tours: Lancaster City Walking Tour | $ | Lancaster
Brewery Tours: Lancaster City Walk-a-Bout! | $ | Lancaster

Sunday

Sunday Tea at the Willows at Ashcombe Mansion | $ | Mechanicsburg
Sundays at Stumpy’s! | $ | Hershey
Sunday Night Trivia at McGrath’s Pub | Free | Harrisburg
Sunday Food Truck Night In SoMa at Agape Elixir Bar | Free | Harrisburg
coffee with friends with New Cumberland Collective at the New Cumberland Library | Free | New Cumberland
Charter Day at The State Museum of Pennsylvania | Free | Harrisburg
Live Music with Brunch: Shine Delphi at Wolf Brewing Co. | Free | Mechanicsburg
Pilates for Runners: Equipment Class at H2L Studio | $ | Mechanicsburg
Intro to Pilates Equipment: Start your Pilates Journey Here at H2L Studio | $ | Mechanicsburg
Molly Pitcher Tea Party at the Harris-Cameron Mansion | $ | Harrisburg
Breathwork Class at H2L Studio | $ | Mechanicsburg
Pizza and Wine Pairing at Gruver Farms | Free | New Cumberland
PA Home & Garden Show at the PA Farm Show Complex | $ | Harrisburg
Cumberland Honey with Aroostine Lively, Grace Mahar, and Gena Lanette at West Shore Theatre | $ | New Cumberland
Troegs Yoga & Brunch at Tröegs Independent Brewing | Free | Hershey
Sunday School – Italian Wine Tasting at The Ahndsome Cab | $ | York
Cocktails & Canvases at The Brownstone Lounge | $ | Harrisburg
Early Spring Nature Walk at Hershey Gardens | $ | Hershey
Dale and The ZDubs & Sons of Paradise at The Abbey Bar | $ | Harrisburg
Songwriters in the Raw feat. Benny Bleu, Andrew Dunn, and Andrew Pauls! at West Art | $ | Lancaster
The Drifters, The Platters & Cornell Gunter’s Coasters at American Music Theatre | $ | Lancaster
Stoney Brook – An Unauthorized Comedy Parody at Open Stage | $ | Harrisburg
King Lear at Gamut Theatre | $ | Harrisburg

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

Harrisburg City Council slated to clarify “acting” director appointments, weighs requiring trash cans at corner stores

March 3, 2026 | by Maddie Gittens

Harrisburg City Council in January

Harrisburg city council discussed on Tuesday a resolution that would stop the mayor from appointing department heads without their approval.

At a work session, council briefly talked about legislation that would amend the code to clarify how long acting department heads can serve before requiring council’s consent.

The legislation comes after a legal battle between Mayor Wanda Williams and council.

Williams sued council for defunding several top city positions as part of the 2026 budget. As an explanation for defunding and partially defunding two of the positions, the business administrator and director of building and housing development, council said that those directors had remained in temporary roles past 120 days, at which time “acting” directors are supposed to be approved by council. Williams had maintained that they were not “acting,” but “interim” directors, a title that is not in the city code, but which mayors have used in the past.

Council won the lawsuit and, soon after, council and the mayor came to an agreement that a few positions would be refunded, and that Williams would end the practice of appointing “interim” directors.

Council’s proposed amendment on Tuesday would further clarify the process of appointing “acting” directors by saying that, after 120 days, acting heads’ salaries would be halted.

“This was a good thing that we were able to get it in this form so that it’s understood by not only us, but any future council members and future administrations,” said council member Lamont Jones. “One of the things we got out of this was putting to bed old practices from previous administrations.”

Council also discussed a new ordinance, initiated by council member Ralph Rodriguez, that would have the city install trash cans outside of corner stores and bodegas. The ordinance would also require the store owners to keep them up, but the city would regularly empty them, as well.

Rodriguez said that he proposed the ordinance in response to concern from residents about trash and in conjunction with the city’s comprehensive plan.

“It was just something that, not only myself, but a lot of community members, for as long as I’ve been on council, have spoken about corner store ordinances and the cleanliness of our neighborhoods,” Rodriguez said.

Director of Public Works Dave West assured council that the city would make sure the cans were emptied and not overflowing.

Council is slated to vote on both bills at next week’s legislative session.

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Ice & Fire Festival to return to Harrisburg with sculptures, food, music

March 2, 2026 | by Maddie Gittens

Ice sculpture outside TheBurg office in Midtown in 2025.

The weather may be unseasonably warm this weekend, but Harrisburg is prepping for a very cool event on Saturday.

The city’s ninth annual Ice & Fire Festival will take place on March 7, from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m., featuring dozens of ice sculptures, food and festivities.

“For nine years, this festival has transformed the coldest season of the year into one of the warmest celebrations of community you will find anywhere,” said Mayor Wanda Williams at a press conference Monday morning. “It has become a true Harrisburg tradition.”

Throughout downtown, Midtown, City Island, Reservoir Park, Italian Lake and Shipoke, the city will install 68 ice sculptures at businesses, parks and other locations. Sculptures include a Yorkie terrier, Pikachu, books, “67”, a sloth and several photo op sculptures as well. At 5 p.m., sculptures will be illuminated.

Due to the forecasted warm weather, city officials said they plan to place sculptures in shaded areas and will take them down if any become a safety hazard from melting.

Additionally, in the downtown area, there will be fire dancers, iceless ice skating, live music and performances, an artist market, an ice slide and live ice carving. And while the weather may not warrant it, the city will have fire pits with free s’mores kits and warming tents.

Also downtown, over a dozen food trucks and vendors will be serving up tacos, mini donuts, Filipino cuisine, milkshakes, empanadas and more.

Downtown and Midtown businesses will offer drink and food specials as well.

Krapf School Bus will offer free ADA accessible shuttle buses for festival attendees between City Island, downtown and Midtown. Buses depart every 30 minutes, roughly between 11 a.m. and 7 p.m.

Beginning Friday, March 6 at noon, portions of N. 2nd Street will close to traffic. Expanded closures will take effect Saturday, from 6:30 a.m. through 11 p.m.

Discounted $10 parking will be available in the Market Square Garage from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m., courtesy of Park Harrisburg.

For more information on the Ice & Fire Festival, visit the city’s website.

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

The Week that Was: News and features around Harrisburg

February 27, 2026 | by TheBurg Staff

Damien Randell of Damien’s Fried Chicken

It’s starting to look a little like spring, isn’t it? The sunshine is melting away the last of our snow here and (today at least!) you could probably even get away with going outside without a jacket.

Speaking of jackets, you’ll see the new cover of our March issue around town this week. The issue focuses largely on local nonprofits that are making a difference in our region.

On the daily news front, we’ve been covering stories around Harrisburg all week online, too. See below for the latest headlines, which include updates on what will happen to William Penn, City Council’s latest ICE-related legislation and the story of the Broad Street Market’s new fried chicken vendor.

Our weekly coverage is compiled for you here:

Black authors in the Harrisburg area are bringing their perspectives to fiction and nonfiction alike. Read more in our February magazine story.

Bob’s Art Blog highlighted creative leaders of color across Harrisburg this past month. Read more in our February magazine story.

City Council passed legislation to limit the Harrisburg police’s ability to work with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement on Tuesday, our online story reported.

Damien’s Fried Chicken, a new Broad Street Market stand, is now open for business. Find out more in our online story.

Harrisburg officials, from the school district and Intergovernmental Cooperation Authority, discussed the unique challenges facing Harrisburg’s city and schools Wednesday, our online story reported.

Harrisburg police said homicides were down in 2025 in their annual report, which was released this week. See more trends in our online story.

Harrisburg school board voted Tuesday night to demolish William Penn, a century-old school building that has sat vacant for 15 years. Read more here.

Our Adventure Together columnist explores fungi with her kiddo. For more, see our February magazine story.

Our publisher Lawrance Binda wonders in his latest column: now that Gov. Josh Shapiro has signed on to help revitalize Harrisburg’s struggling downtown, can we look forward to change? Read his March magazine column.

Sara Bozich has compiled the best events of the weekend in her Weekend Roundup, including 2026 Capital Area Polar Plunge at Gifford Pinchot State Park. Check out the full list.

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Top 7 Corporate Event Branding Companies in Pennsylvania [2026 Guide]

February 27, 2026 | by Admin

When holding an event in central Pennsylvania, such as a local chamber of commerce gathering or a healthcare conference, it is a good idea to hire an event branding company. These solutions help build brand recognition and drive measurable business results. Local businesses should step up their event presence, leaving a memorable and impactful impression on guests.

How to Choose the Right Provider

When choosing a provider, it is essential to consider several factors. They must match the vendor in terms of scale, meaning the provider should be able to handle the size of your event or business in general. The provider should demonstrate corporate experience, highlighting their expertise and ability to help your company brand itself during events.

Another key consideration is the provider’s understanding of your local market. There are some global agencies with specialized views, but you should ensure they understand your region specifically. The provider must have specific capabilities that fit your business’s needs, such as designing or production. Ideally, the provider will take a consultative approach to branding. They do not take over, but they do provide helpful advice to boost your brand.

What are the Top-Rated Branding Solutions for Corporate Events in Pennsylvania?

The following are the top-rated solutions for corporate event branding for Pennsylvania businesses, along with more information about their specialities.

Each branding solution was chosen based on its ability to work with businesses in central PA and the size of the event it can handle. The ranking was determined by comparing each branding solution’s key features, including what it is known for and the team’s strategy.

1. Artistic Imprints

Artistic Imprints is ranked the best branding solution overall for corporate events in Pennsylvania. Located in Camp Hill, PA, the company specializes in bringing brands to life, utilizing over 20 years of experience in personalizing promotional items, signage and awards. Its website lists some of its many positive testimonials, showcasing its high ratings and satisfaction among clients.

Artistic Imprints serves as a one-stop shop for customers, keeping each client’s branding on file in case they return for more assistance. The solution provides marketing materials and dedicates each product, offering limitless items and Direct-to-Film (DTF) capabilities. It works with large corporations and small businesses, so it can handle events of any size. Clients can select materials based on their individual budgets.

2. True Fit Marketing

True Fit Marketing is best for clients looking to focus on storytelling in marketing and branding. Located in Southpointe, PA, the solution features genuine reviews from verified partners on its site. These reviews showcase its specific services, including the full scope of its marketing capabilities. It also integrates well with your existing team.

The solution handles events of any size since it works with many different types of businesses. It tailors its marketing approach to your specific business, addressing any concerns and matching your budget.

3. Top Brand Worldwide

Top Brand Worldwide is best for those seeking a global perspective on branding. While the solution is located in New York, New York, it works with clients globally, including those in central PA. There are many positive reviews on the solution’s website, highlighting its track record for customer satisfaction.

Its services involve corporate event designing. The solution utilizes AI-powered tools for maximum efficiency, and the team is available 24/7 due to its global outreach. It strives to make events unique and memorable. Top Brand Worldwide helps with any size events, and its prices typically range from $40K to $2M, but it can fit many budgets.

4. Rank Media Agency

Rank Media Agency is best for clients who desire continuous growth. The main office is in Montreal, Quebec, but it also has an office in Miami, Florida and serves businesses across North America. There are multiple client success stories on its website, including reviews written by company CEOs.

Its services include digital growth, brand identity creation and a complete marketing experience. The solution hosts events digitally, making it suitable for events of all sizes. Because the solution offers a wide range of services, prices vary from business to business.

5. Calaveras

Calaveras is best for companies looking to launch multichannel initiatives, especially ones involving social media. Located in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, it can deliver services to customers in central Pennsylvania. The website features multiple success stories, including reviews from actual CEOs.

Its services include strategizing, creativity, branding and social media, with branding being the most relevant toward events. It works with businesses of all sizes, so it can also handle many different types of events. When you contact the solution and describe the event, a team member can give you a price estimate.

6. RMNG

RMNG is the best solution for interactive events, specifically pop-ups. Its main headquarters is in Los Angeles, California, but it has served businesses in 48 states. The solution has earned several awards and worked with many notable companies.

RMNG primarily creates pop-up experiences for customers, and the team helps brainstorm unique strategies aligned with your company’s brand. Pop-ups are typically smaller events, but the solution is ready if the turnout becomes large. An estimated price range is between $74K and $250K, but if the pop-up is in multiple locations, then it is usually greater than the minimum.

7. HKO Agency

HKO Agency is the best branding solution for companies seeking a data-driven approach to event branding. It works with clients around the world, but it is based in Miami, Florida. The website features multiple real branding examples, completed for other clients, to truly showcase its abilities.

Its services focus on delivering results by analyzing historical data, determining precision value and focusing on both social media and general branding. The solution can handle any-sized event, and its pricing depends on the event itself and any additional branding or marketing services it provides.

Branding Solutions Comparison Table

The following table outlines the key features of each branding solution for quick comparison.

Branding Solutions	Best For	Location	Event Size
Artistic Imprints	Overall	Camp Hill, PA	Many sizes
True Fit Marketing	Storytelling	Southpointe, PA	Any size
Top Brand Worldwide	Global perspective	New York, NY	Any size
Rank Media Agency	Continuous growth	Montreal, Quebec	Any size
Calaveras	Multi-channel initiatives	Pittsburgh, PA	All sizes
RMNG	Interactive events	Los Angeles, California	Typically small, but can handle larger
HKO Agency	Data-driven approach	Miami, Florida	Any size

A Holistic Approach to Branding

Strategic event planning helps grow businesses, sometimes serving as customers’ first experience with the company and providing an appropriate venue for networking. Businesses that invest in event branding through a holistic approach set themselves up for success. Companies in central Pennsylvania should elevate their event branding in 2026 to fully leverage these benefits.

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How to Choose the Right Provider

What are the Top-Rated Branding Solutions for Corporate Events in Pennsylvania?

1. Artistic Imprints

2. True Fit Marketing

3. Top Brand Worldwide

4. Rank Media Agency

5. Calaveras

6. RMNG

7. HKO Agency

Branding Solutions Comparison Table

A Holistic Approach to Branding

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