Top Private Banking Services in Pennsylvania

High-net-worth people require financial institutions that can help them manage their money with confidence. The right choice depends on the type of personalization and relationship they expect from their banks. Where can you find private banking services in Pennsylvania? If you’re seeking a dedicated provider who can handle your various assets and investments over the years, consider the following providers that combine local expertise with sophisticated financial services.

1. Mid Penn Bank

Mid Penn Bank’s private bank is designed for high-net-worth individuals and families who value long-term relationships and dedicated support. It has deep roots in Pennsylvania and combines personalized service with a full suite of private banking and wealth management offerings.

Clients benefit from direct access to a personal private banker who understands regional business dynamics and multigenerational planning needs, and whom they can call on whenever they need assistance. Mid Penn Bank’s size allows it to remain flexible while still offering sophisticated financial solutions.

Key features:

  • Dedicated private bankers and relationship managers
  • Integrated wealth management, trust and investment services
  • Customized personal and business lending and banking solutions

2. PNC Bank

PNC Bank offers a national private banking platform supported by extensive resources and specialized expertise. Its strong Pennsylvania presence makes it a common choice for clients with complex financial needs spanning investments and wealth strategy.

The bank’s model ensures access to specialized teams while maintaining a structured advisory experience across 23 states. This approach can appeal to people who prefer the scale and capabilities of a large financial institution.

Key features:

  • Comprehensive private banking and wealth advisory services
  • Specialized support for business owners and executives
  • Broad geographic reach

3. Fulton Private Bank

Fulton Private Bank provides a regional private banking experience with a strong focus on relationship continuity. With headquarters and a long-standing presence in Pennsylvania, it serves individuals and families seeking coordinated financial advice while staying local.

Its services emphasize personal engagement, combining private banking with wealth and investment management to support current and future financial goals. Clients have access to a dedicated banker and team of experts to guide them along the way.

Key features:

  • Dedicated private banker and team for stronger relationships
  • Wealth and investment management services
  • Established Pennsylvania footprint

4. Truist Wealth

Truist Wealth delivers private banking and wealth management through a large yet integrated financial institution. Pennsylvania clients gain access to a wide range of planning and investment resources supported by a data-driven approach.

This structure works well for clients who want scalable, adaptable services and access to multiple specialists and service types as their financial needs evolve.

Key features:

  • Integrated banking and investment services
  • Access to specialized advisory teams, depending on profession or the number of investments
  • Data-driven approach to wealth management

5. Fidelity Bank

Fidelity Bank focuses on community-oriented private banking with a focus on personalized service. Its approach is ideal for individuals and families who value close adviser relationships and consistent contact.

This regional bank has over 20 branches across northeastern Pennsylvania and has been in operation for over a century, creating a strong local footprint. Its expertise and presence make it a strong candidate for Pennsylvania natives who want advisers who deeply understand local markets and legal requirements.

Key features:

  • Relationship-focused private banking services
  • Customized wealth management and lending solutions
  • Strong local presence and market knowledge

6. Erie Bank

Erie Bank offers private banking services grounded in long-standing regional expertise. Its approach prioritizes flexibility and relationship-driven service for Pennsylvania clients.

It works closely with clients to understand personal and business goals, allowing solutions to evolve over time. It offers enriched versions of basic banking products and services, including exclusive programs for executives and physicians.

Key features:

  • Personalized private banking and lending
  • Established regional reputation
  • Profession-specific programs

At a Glance: Comparing Pennsylvania’s Top Private Banks

Bank Service Model Investment Management Custom Lending
Mid Penn Bank Dedicated banker Yes Yes
PNC Bank Adviser team Yes Yes
Fulton Private Bank Adviser team Yes Yes
Truist Wealth Integrated team Yes Yes
Fidelity Bank Adviser team Yes Yes
Erie Bank Dedicated banker Yes Yes

Methodology for Selecting the Best Private Banks

This list reflects what matters most to high-net-worth clients in Pennsylvania. The selection criteria included these factors:

  • Breadth of services: Multiple banking products, including wealth management, investments, insurance and lending
  • Relationship-based service models: Dedicated advisers or bankers committed to client success
  • Reputation and longevity: Established presence in Pennsylvania and strong testimonials from previous clients
  • Customization capabilities: Flexible offerings to accommodate complex financial situations

How to Choose the Right Private Bank for You

Selecting a private bank means finding a long-term financial partner that aligns with your goals and preferences. Consider using these criteria to evaluate which institution best suits your financial needs.

Assess Your Financial Complexity and Goals

Start by defining the scope of your needs. Consider whether you manage multiple businesses, hold family trusts, own sizable real estate portfolios, or anticipate major financial events like buying or selling a company. Each financial situation has its nuance, especially for high-net-worth individuals. In these cases, it’s crucial to choose a bank with experience handling complex assets and planning scenarios.

Determine Your Preferred Service Style and Relationship

Private banks vary in how they engage clients. Some offer a boutique or concierge-style model with a single, dedicated banker or adviser who knows your family and financial history. Others operate with team-based structures that provide access to multiple specialists. The right choice depends on whether you value familiarity and continuity or broad expertise within a larger institution.

Evaluate Fee Structures and Transparency

Understanding fees and compensation in private banking is essential. Some banks calculate payments based on the assets under management, while others charge flat retainers. Transparent, up-front explanations of costs indicate professionalism, honesty and alignment with your interests.

Schedule Consultations to Ensure a Good Fit

Before making a decision, meet with advisers from your top prospects. These conversations help confirm whether the bank understands your goals and communicates in a way that builds trust. Private banking is a sensitive, long-term relationship, so personal chemistry and confidence matter as much as credentials and services.

Finding the Right Long-Term Financial Partner

Private banking in Pennsylvania opens up a wide range of options, from community institutions to national platforms. The best choice is the bank that best understands your goals and can support your financial needs over the long term.

Sponsored Content

Continue Reading

Golden Crunch: Fried chicken stand opens in the Broad Street Market

Damien Randell at his new stand in the Broad Street Market

Damien’s Fried Chicken is only on its second day open in the Broad Street Market, but owner Damien Randell said he’s already getting requests.

“I’m like the chicken DJ,” he said jokingly.

At his stand in the stone market building, Randell fries wings, breasts, drumsticks, gizzards and livers, and makes fresh cut fries too.

The menu is intentionally simple to start, as he gets his footing with the new business, but he plans to add more. Several customers have already put their votes in for potato salad, he said.

Randell most recently managed a local Restaurant Depot and has had businesses in the past, but this is his first in the food industry. While working at the Restaurant Depot, Randell said he got to know several market vendors, who encouraged him to consider starting a business in the market.

Randell had visited the market when he used to make the trip to Harrisburg from Reading to visit family when he was young. The diversity of vendors and customers stood out to him, he said. He also said he sees the “potential” of the market and believes that he arrived at the perfect time, as the fire-burned brick building is being restored.

So far, he said his debut in the market has been welcomed.

“It’s been nothing but love,” he said. “Everybody’s been so helpful.”

And while he’s new to owning a restaurant, Randell is seasoned in the kitchen. Having five kids has made him a chef, he explained. Cooking even helped him form a special connection with his daughter, who he would watch cooking shows with.

For the chicken he serves up hot to hungry market customers, Randell uses a “secret spice.” He wouldn’t give up the secret, but said you’ll have to come try his chicken and taste it.

“I just want to bring the community together through some fried chicken,” he said.

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

Continue Reading

The Week that Was: News and features around Harrisburg

HMAC

HMAC announced its closure in a Facebook post Tuesday.

From local entertainment venue HMAC’s abrupt closure to Harrisburg Young Professionals’ appointment of a new executive director to the grand opening of a new Midtown warming shelter for local homeless youth, a lot happened in Harrisburg this week. Our weekly coverage is compiled for you below:

Craig Family Cemetery lies in a wooded area so remote that legal access is possible only through guided tours provided by the Country Club of Harrisburg. Freed slave Andrew Craig and his family are buried on the lot. For more, see our February magazine story.

Curryzone, a Nepalese, Indian and Indo-Chinese fusion restaurant, is now open in Camp Hill. Brothers Suman Shrestha and Prakash Kandel run the restaurant. Read more in our February magazine story

“Ephraim Slaughter: Freedom’s Witness,” a poignant one-act play put on by Sankofa African American Theatre Company and Gamut Theatre, will be onstage at Gamut Theatre until Feb. 22. “The play’s dialogue is pure poetry,” our reviewer raves. Take a look at our February issue story for a behind-the-scenes look at how the show came together.

HACC student Stephanie Wallendjack began exploring art through the community college’s 65+ program and went on to win first place in “Ceramic Art” at one of the world’s most prestigious art exhibitions. Read more in our magazine story.

Harrisburg and CREDC asked residents, workers, business owners, and visitors of the city to take an online survey and share their perception of the downtown. Read more in our online story.

Harrisburg Young Professionals named its former communications coordinator Cody Goss as its new executive director on Wednesday, our online story reported.

HMAC announced its closure on Tuesday, stating it couldn’t procure essential operating licenses from the city after failing to pay its entertainment taxes, our online story reported. The venue’s employees and patrons pleaded with City Council members that night to help keep its doors open.

Hopkins House Museum is set to become Gettysburg’s first museum devoted entirely to Black history. Once home to Jack and Julia Hopkins, the 1840s log cabin is the town’s last surviving Civil War-era house that was owned by Black residents. Read more in our February magazine story.

Plants + Pints, a Strawberry Square-based event that combines plant-based food and craft beer, will return to downtown Harrisburg on Sunday, April 12, our online story reported.

Sara Bozich has compiled the best events of the weekend in her Weekend Roundup, including 3rd in the Burg and Sunday Night Trivia at McGrath’s Pub. Check out the full list.

Thrive Housing Services opened a warming shelter in Midtown for children, teens and young adults experiencing homelessness on Monday. Read more here.

SoMa Block Party series is coming back to downtown Harrisburg this spring and will kick off in May, our online story reported.

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

Continue Reading

The Best Garage Door Pros for Every PA Neighborhood


Finding the best garage door company for you can make a major difference for both residential and commercial properties. Pennsylvania homeowners and business owners need experts who combine technical skill with local knowledge to ensure doors operate safely and efficiently. Top garage door companies provide precise installations, timely repairs and dependable maintenance that extend the life of each system.

Choosing the Garage Door Companies

  • Project scope: Ability to handle any project, from a single residential door to large-scale commercial installations, with efficiency and precision.
  • Experience and expertise: Technicians with proven track records, in-depth knowledge of local building codes and mastery of both traditional and automated door systems.
  • Safety and compliance: Strict adherence to industry safety standards, proper licensing and certifications and careful attention to site-specific precautions.
  • Support services: Comprehensive planning, prompt response times, clear communication and flexible post-installation maintenance and repairs.

Best Garage Door Pros for Every PA Neighborhood

Pennsylvania homeowners and businesses can rely on these trusted garage door professionals for expert service, quality products and dependable solutions.

1. Smoker Door Sales — Best in Lancaster

Smoker Door Sales is the best Lancaster garage door company. Its team of experts installs, repairs and maintains residential and commercial doors with precision. Backed by years of hands-on experience and strong knowledge of local building codes, the team delivers results you can trust. Each project receives personalized attention, ensuring smooth performance and improved curb appeal.

From single-door installs to multisite commercial projects, the company provides fast, reliable service for both traditional and automated systems. Customers count on Smoker Door Sales for consistent quality, long-term relationships and a people-first approach in every interaction.

Key Features:

  • Community engagement through scholarships, internships and volunteer programs
  • Expert sales and installation of overhead doors with exceptional service
  • Full support from planning to post-installation maintenance

2. Cornwell Door Service — Best in Hershey

Cornwell Door Service provides expert residential and commercial garage door solutions. This family-owned company combines decades of experience with a commitment to quality craftsmanship and customer satisfaction. Its trained technicians provide precise installations, repairs and maintenance for all types of garage doors. Customers benefit from same-day service, transparent communication and tailored solutions for every home or business.

Every installation is calibrated to ensure maximum longevity and seamless operation. The company’s friendly, knowledgeable staff guide customers through design choices, helping select doors and accessories that fit both style and budget.

Key Features:

  • Provides 24/7 emergency support to quickly and professionally address urgent repairs
  • offer preventive maintenance programs to keep doors functioning at peak performance
  • Doors stand out for durability, low maintenance and energy efficiency.

3. Central State Door Service — Best in Harrisburg

Central State Door Service has proudly served Central Pennsylvania homeowners and businesses since 1941. The company specializes in residential and commercial garage door installation, repair and maintenance, delivering precise, efficient workmanship on every project.  It offers a wide selection of garage doors, entry doors and openers to suit any property style.

Customers benefit from same-day service, clear communication and tailored solutions designed to meet their specific needs. The company works with trusted brands like Clopay and LiftMaster to ensure durable, long-lasting performance. From expert design guidance to smooth, secure door operation, Central State Door Service remains a trusted name in Harrisburg and surrounding communities.

Key Features:

  • 24/7 emergency service for urgent garage door issues
  • Comprehensive support from minor repairs to full installations
  • Strict adherence to industry safety standards with proper tools and practices

4. Baker Door Company — Best in Lebanon

Baker Door Company is a leading garage door specialist in Lebanon, offering installation, repair and maintenance for residential and commercial doors. The company combines quality products with professional service to exceed customer expectations. Its team of certified technicians ensures every installation is precise and reliable. It also features the Garaga Acadia Collection, known for solid construction and excellent insulation suitable for Lebanon’s climate.

For door openers, it offers LiftMaster products, renowned for safety, durability and smooth operation. Emergency services are available 24/7, so repairs are never delayed. It also provides parts and decorative hardware to personalize and maintain your garage doors.

Key Features:

  • Wide Range of designs online or custom solutions
  • Fast, friendly and efficient service backed by numerous 5-star client reviews
  • Full project support from start to finish

Trusted Garage Door Solutions Across Pennsylvania

Reliable garage door service enhances both safety and property value, underscoring the importance of professional expertise. These companies demonstrate decades of experience, certified technicians and a commitment to customer satisfaction. From emergency repairs to full installations, each team delivers quality solutions tailored to its clients’ unique residential and commercial needs. Pennsylvania residents can rely on these top garage door pros to combine skill, reliability and excellent service for every project.

Sponsored Content

Continue Reading

Benefits of Hiring a Local Attorney in York, PA


Just like you’d want a local expert to help you navigate an unfamiliar city, it’s essential to look for legal representation within your area. For those living in York, Pennsylvania, hiring an attorney who practices in your community is a game-changer and offers a distinct advantage over an out-of-town firm.

Your decision to recruit an attorney for your case is significant as it directly affects your rights, financial future and freedom. Choosing a local professional, in particular, offers several unique advantages beyond convenience. For one thing, they possess a deep knowledge of the surrounding area, valuable professional networks and an understanding of nuanced laws in your jurisdiction. So, what are the benefits of hiring a local attorney in York, PA?

1.   Deep Roots in the York Community

Local attorneys are members of your community, just like you. You might see them at a local sporting event, out to dinner or volunteering in your child’s classroom, supporting the same businesses and participating in your town’s activities right alongside you.

This means they maintain a personal stake in York County and its residents and are committed to handing you the respect and care that every close neighbor deserves.

Because they are intertwined with the local fabric, their professional standings are constantly on the line. Every win in court builds a positive reputation for their firm, giving them more incentive to deliver optimal outcomes with each case they take on. They are wholly dedicated to community prosperity and diligent advocacy for residents.

2.   Accessibility and Connection

In today’s digital era, video conferencing and email have made communication easier than ever. However, you shouldn’t underestimate the value of in-person access. Among the many benefits of hiring a local attorney in York is the ability to stop by the office for a meeting or drop off important documents during your lunch break.

Establishing a personal connection with your legal team gives you a much better chance of a successful outcome than trying to work with a distant law firm. The York County Bar Association maintains a database of qualified professionals nearby that can assist you with your case. Professional experience and legal expertise are critical overall, but the personal attention you receive can make an even greater difference.

3.   Familiarity With the York County Courts and Personnel

In sports, home teams usually have an advantage over visiting teams because they know every characteristic of the field or the referee. York-based attorneys are similar in that they possess intimate knowledge of local court procedures, which may be complex.

Perhaps most importantly, they deeply understand the people. A local lawyer has firsthand experience appearing before the Central Pennsylvania judges and knows their personalities and legal volitions. They’ve likely built professional relationships with local prosecutors and opposing counsel.

This particular insight gives them the leverage to predict courtroom and procedural strategies and navigate the system. They are also better able to tailor their arguments to resonate more with the court. An out-of-town lawyer won’t be able to achieve the same as efficiently.

4.   Established Relationships Within the Local Legal Network

In addition to familiarity with the York County court system, a local attorney will have an established legal network they can lean on. Throughout their years of practice, they will have built professional relationships with attorneys, judges, staff and expert witnesses that help them streamline cases and validate their lines of reasoning.

Those with a positive reputation and experience dealing with opposing counsel may find it easier to negotiate a deal. They will also have several respected medical experts, analysts and accident reconstructionists they can use during a trial. The insider knowledge generates credibility for your case and gives you a leg up in ways outside attorneys cannot deliver.

5.   Knowledge of Local Laws and Nuances

York County has nuanced laws and ordinances that a local lawyer will be familiar with. For example, Article 714 outlines local noise restrictions between 9:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m. Monday through Saturday and from 9:00 p.m. Saturday to noon on Sunday.

A proposed amendment to Section 24.1-414.1 of the York County Zoning Ordinance also states that residences can have one chicken per 2,500 square feet of land, or no more than 16 birds on large properties.

Although these regulations may seem granular, they give your local attorney a tactical advantage, enabling them to build a stronger case by identifying violations others might miss.

MPL Law Firm — Your Local York, PA, Legal Team

MPL Law Firm is a standout choice for reaping the benefits of hiring a local attorney in York, PA. With decades of serving the central PA community, its team has built a legacy of conviction and proven outcomes. It prides itself on being your right-hand counsel and proactive advocate, one that doesn’t shy away from complex cases.

Legal experts at MPL Law Firm possess profound knowledge across a wide range of practice areas, including real estate, estates and trusts, commercial law, family law, civil litigation, and criminal defense. Its versatility demonstrates its ability to address diverse defense needs in the area.

MPL LandServices is its real estate division, focused on property transactions in PA. Whether you’re buying or selling a home, the team will manage all the essential details, from conducting title searches to ensuring the property doesn’t have concealed ownership issues. It also assists buyers, sellers and lenders with property line disputes and old liens.

It’s a dedicated member of your community and delivers expert counsel with a personal touch. When you choose MPL Law Firm, you receive quality legal representation from people who are your neighbors, not just your lawyers.

Choose Community, Choose Confidence

Hiring a local attorney in York, PA, is a wise choice if you’re facing legal challenges. Although you could seek legal advice and representation from an out-of-town firm, the attention and care that your case will receive from someone nearby is unparalleled.

Selecting a lawyer from your community is an investment in a successful settlement. Rather than settling for a stranger, you should first reach out to a dedicated local attorney.

Sponsored Content

 

Continue Reading

SoMa Block parties to return to downtown Harrisburg this May

SoMa Block Party

A past SoMa Block Party. Photo by Michael Yatsko Photography.

Downtown Harrisburg’s free and family-friendly SoMa Block party series will return this May, tacking on two special ‘bonus’ parties for the season.

Hosted by Sara Bozich and Harristown Enterprises, the series closes the block of S. 3rd Street between Market and Chestnut streets to vehicle traffic and brings in food trucks, drink vendors and live bands.

Local businesses Boneshire Taproom, Agape Elixir Bar, SCC Tattoo Studio, El Sol Mexican Restaurant, Subway and JoJo’s Barbershop will stay open late for the events.

This year’s SoMa Block parties are from 6 to 10 p.m. on the following dates:

  • Thursday, May 28 (Little Brother Band)
  • Thursday, June 25 (Vivid Vinyl)
  • Thursday, July 30 (Cass & The Bailout Crew)
  • Thursday, Aug. 20 (Smokehouse 4)
  • Thursday, Sept. 24 (Honey Pie)

In addition to the monthly lineup, two bonus SoMa Block parties will take place in June and September this year:

  • The Juneteenth SoMa Block Party on Friday, June 19  from 3 to 9 p.m. 
  • The .5K with The River 97.3 on Sunday, Sept. 27 at noon 

The Juneteenth event will be hosted with Young Professionals of Color and Harrisburg Young Professionals. 

The .5K event will benefit Harrisburg River Rescue & Emergency Services.

Parking is free on weeknights for most of downtown after 5 p.m. and free on Sundays.

Craft beer, wine and non-alcoholic drinks will be available.

For more information, visit Sara Bozich’s website.

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

Continue Reading

Weekend Roundup with 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: Elixirs & Intentions at Agape Elixir Bar on Saturday; JB Lovedraft’s is hosting a Nowhere To Wear It Party Saturday, too.

Worth noting: 2nd Annual Black History & The Arts at The Civic Club on Friday; one more show added for Sheryl Underwood at Harrisburg Comedy Zone; Open Stage hosts Court Street Cabaret on Sunday

Things on my agenda this weekend: PSU wrestling, girls trip to KOP, tbd!

Thursday

Friday

Saturday

Sunday

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

Continue Reading

HYP taps former communications coordinator as new executive director

HYP

Cody Goss, the new executive director of Harrisburg Young Professionals

Harrisburg Young Professionals appointed a new executive director Wednesday, filling a post open since last fall.

Cody Goss, of Midtown, who has served as the group’s part-time communications coordinator since 2024, has been hired to lead the city-based nonprofit. Originally from Milton, he and his wife have lived in Harrisburg for the last nine years.

The 31-year-old will be officially introduced as the organization’s leader later this month at its Feb. 25 annual meeting. In the meantime, Goss said that he is jumping into the full-time role “head first.”

“HYP is just such a positive organization to be around,” Goss said, noting he is excited to uphold the organization’s mission—“to make Harrisburg a better place to live, work and play.”

“Meeting people within the community, making a positive impact, and driving HYP to be more successful— those are my overarching goals,” he said.

Goss graduated from Harrisburg University last month with a degree in business administration. 

While obtaining his degree, he said that he gained a good understanding of how to build customer and sponsor relations and bolster community engagement. He sees opportunities for HYP to engage more up-and-coming professionals at local colleges like HACC, Central Penn College, and Harrisburg University and help them understand what the group can offer.

“There’s tons of organic social opportunities where you don’t have to necessarily be in a suit and tie and passing out your business card, but you can genuinely meet people,” Goss explained.

HYP President Faniel Yemane indicated that Goss’s existing commitment and involvement with HYP give him a great starting place as the organization’s lead.

“As we step into this next chapter, I have full confidence in Cody’s ability to lead with clarity, energy and purpose,” Yemane said.

The organization’s former executive director, Meghan (Bachmore) Vanderstappen, left the role in October of last year after a three-and-a-half-year stint. She began in January 2022.

Prior to Vanderstappen, the position had been empty for two years. Her predecessor, Derek Whitesel, stepped down just before the COVID-19 pandemic.

HYP will host its 28th Annual Meeting and Awards Night on Feb. 25 from 6 to 8 p.m. at Strawberry Square.

For more information on HYP, visit its website.

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

Continue Reading

Plants + Pints to return this spring with plant-based vendors and a charitable mission

Plants + Pints 2025. Photo by Michael Yatsko.

An upcoming event will make living healthy fun.

Plants + Pints returns to Strawberry Square in downtown Harrisburg on Sunday, April 12, bringing together plant-based vendors and craft beverages for a good cause.

“Plants + Pints is exactly the kind of event that brings downtown Harrisburg to life,” said Brad Jones, president and CEO of Harristown Enterprises, which is hosting the festival with Sara Bozich Events. “We’re thrilled to welcome it back to Strawberry Square in 2026 and continue highlighting the incredible plant-based and plant-forward talent we have right here in our region.”

The event, which has been hosted downtown for several years, will highlight vegetarian and vegan food, products and beverages. Over 40 vendors will be in attendance. Food and drink will be offered as samples and available for purchase.

Plants + Pints will run from 1 to 5 p.m.

Additionally, proceeds from the event will go to benefit Downtown Daily Bread, a nonprofit that feeds and shelters unhoused community members.

“We’re so grateful for this event supporting Downtown Daily Bread,” said Kristen Herman, executive director of Downtown Daily Bread. “Plants + Pints brings people together around a fun community event, and the proceeds provide critical support for the meals, shelter, and services our guests rely on every day.”

Tickets are $20 and kids under 12 years old are free.

Downtown street parking is free on Sundays.

To purchase tickets or for more information, visit Sara Bozich’s website. 

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

Continue Reading

HMAC employees, patrons speak in support of venue, ask City Council for help

HMAC

Employees and patrons of a Harrisburg music venue on Tuesday asked for City Council’s help to keep its doors open.

Harrisburg Midtown Art Center (HMAC) earlier today announced that it would close, saying that it cannot get essential operating licenses after failing to pay entertainment taxes.

During council’s work session, over a dozen residents indicated that they were there in solidarity with HMAC and spoke on behalf of the venue during public comment.

“HMAC has approached the mayor and the city solicitor with a concrete plan to pay the taxes owed and despite HMAC’s attorney reaching out, neither the mayor nor the city solicitor have responded, I believe for two weeks,” said resident Julia Tilley. “The only comment that was made that was shared with me was that the administration really doesn’t care if HMAC closes. Now I really can’t believe that anybody would’ve said that, but if they did, if it is true, I think it is a pretty terrible position for a city that is hemorrhaging restaurants and other businesses.”

According to John Traynor, one of the concert venue’s co-founders, HMAC has been closed for two weeks, not being allowed to operate without essential licenses, like health and mercantile licenses.

City Solicitor Neil Grover told TheBurg that HMAC owed a “substantial” amount of unpaid entertainment taxes and said that this is an “issue of their making.”

Traynor shared the same sentiments as Tilley, that HMAC has attempted to work out the issue with the city, but hasn’t received a response. Grover told TheBurg that HMAC’s offer, as of last week, constituted “pennies on the dollar” for what it owed.

Tilley urged council to look at the city’s amusement tax rate of 10% per ticket sold, which, she said, is higher than Philadelphia and New York City.

Amy Trout, co-founder of the Blacklisted Poets of Harrisburg, which hosts events at HMAC, said that her group found a home at the venue.

“It is the only venue in this city that has ever made us feel welcome and wanted and appreciated,” she said. “And I think it is so important to support the arts.”

Another man, who said he is a local promoter who hosts events at HMAC, said that Chris Werner, an HMAC principal, gave him a chance.

“I hope that there’s an answer because if there isn’t and HMAC closes down, I have to figure something out,” he said. “I started from the bottom there.”

Another woman who used to work for HMAC said that working at the venue gave her “purpose.”

“We want to stay working in the city, we want to stay living in the city, and a lot of us, it’s a very real possibility that we’ll have to leave the city both as residents and workers […] We want to stay and we love our city very much.”

Werner’s daughter even stepped up to the mic to share how her father’s business impacted her.

“HMAC has always been my safe place and where I felt the most protected,” she said. “It’s where I see my future. It’s where I learned everything. While most kids grow up trying to figure out their future, I’ve always known.”

Several council members expressed their support for city businesses and said that they would look into the situation with HMAC.

“I don’t want to see another Harrisburg business close. I really hope that we can all work together, we’re all adults in this room, and find a solution because I don’t think any of us can afford for another Harrisburg business to close,” said council member Jocelyn Rawls.

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

Continue Reading