Getting the Word Out: The Black Travel Experience seeks to bring people, dollars to the Harrisburg area

January 28, 2022 | by Susan Ryder

In recent years, Harrisburg has seen a burst of new Black-owned businesses and cultural experiences, adding to the already-vibrant scene in the majority-Black city.

The area’s destination marketing organization—Visit Hershey & Harrisburg (VHH)—has now created a resource for visitors who want to learn about and patronize these restaurants, shops, cafés and venues, as well as cultural and other events.

“Larger cities across the country really are doing a great job focusing in on cultural experiences,” said Mary Smith, VHH president and CEO. “So, we feel that our region is home to many diverse tourism, businesses, and opportunities. We realize that visitors to the region, they’re demonstrating an increasing interest in learning more about these types of experiences.”

The Black Travel Experience groups opportunities together, much like VHH has done previously with its Sweet Treat Trail for confection fans, its Adventure Trail for outdoor enthusiasts, and its Brew Barons Beer Trail for suds lovers.

The Black Travel Experience seemed like a natural next step in the process.

“Travelers are more savvy,” Smith said. “They’re looking for more than just a list of places to eat or stay or play. They actually are looking to organizations like ours to paint that picture of what they can expect when they visit.”

Amazing Idea

VHH, Smith said, will help people get the most out of their visit to the area. It may also serve as an important resource for local tourists—people who live in central PA and want information on things to do.

VHH is getting the word out through the Black Travel Experience addition to its website, which offers couples and families “must do” options while highlighting Black-owned businesses, shopping, culture and events.

The site introduces visitors to places like the Nyeusi Gallery, which features art created by people of color. It also informs tourists about shops like Eddie’s Men Store and helps familiarize them with long-time Harrisburg restaurants like Crawdaddy’s and newcomers like Good Brotha’s Book Café, purveyor of coffee, sweets, lunch and books.

Café owner Stefan Hawkins likes the idea behind the initiative.

“The word doesn’t get out enough about us [Black-owned businesses],” Hawkins said. “So, amplified voices… that help us to promote and market ourselves… is very essential to growth.”

Sue Kunisky, VHH vice president of operations, concurs. She said that VHH takes the assets of the region and connects travelers to them. To do that, VHH enlisted the help of MaDonna Awotwi, director of communications at the African-American Chamber of Commerce of Central PA. Awotwi assisted VHH in brainstorming, identifying and coordinating with local Black-owned businesses.

“I thought that it was an amazing idea,” Awotwi said. “I thought that it was very inclusive, for them to design a guide with a Black traveler, or people who identify with a Black experience, in mind.”

Why the need for the Black Travel Experience?

First of all, for economics.

“There’s just been so many inspiring stories coming out of Harrisburg about Black-owned businesses opening or expanding, especially in downtown and Midtown,” Smith said. “So, the timing was perfect for us to jump on this.”

Secondly, for convenience—it makes it easier for people to find what they want.

“As a Black person, when you’re traveling to a place you’ve never been before, looking for things that align with who you are, it takes a lot of research and digging on the internet to find the places you’d like to go,” Awotwi said.

And, thirdly, for cultural reasons. Hawkins believes that people should explore Black culture beyond what’s seen on television, pointing out that each city has a unique expression of the culture.

Bright Light

VHH and business owners hope that this initiative will drive business into the area. Hawkins would like for customers to discover his business. He also thinks that, by highlighting Black-owned businesses, others may be inspired to live their dream of business ownership.

“To take that leap of faith and bet on themselves as an entrepreneur,” Hawkins said.

Awotwi hopes, too, that locals will discover Black-owned businesses. She said that folks have their “go to” restaurants, and she would like Black-owned businesses to be on that list.

“There are some amazing Black-owned restaurants in Harrisburg that deserve to have a bright light shined on them,” Awotwi said.

She mentioned Isabelle’s Southern Cuisine on Reily Street, which serves a to-die-for salmon cheese steak. Hawkins also frequents Zachary’s BBQ & Soul for its plant-based burger.

Smith said that VHH is looking forward to building upon this initiative, by telling business stories through informational videos and continuing to add businesses as part of the experience.

Also upcoming—state investment in similar initiatives.

In December, the Wolf administration announced that it will spend $6.8 million on tourism programs that involve diversity, equity and inclusion.

“Our work on those started well before we learned anything about the state’s investment,” Smith said. “But it definitely reinforced that we’re on the right track, and that this is an important project, not only at a local level, but at a state level.”

A timely project, the Black Travel Experience gives travelers easily accessible opportunities to enjoy the region in the way they choose.

“Our goal was to be thorough, to truly bring value to both the visitor and to the businesses,” said Kunisky

Learn more about the Black Travel Experience at www.visithersheyharrisburg.org.

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Hope for Harmony: With a new administration in Harrisburg, let’s wish for better relations between the mayor and council

January 28, 2022 | by Lawrance Binda

Illustration by Rich Hauck.

Last month, Wanda R. D. Williams was sworn in as the 39th mayor of Harrisburg, ushering in a new era of leadership in the city.

The mid-morning inauguration was replete with the soaring rhetoric, pledges and prayers that normally befit such an occasion.

That’s completely appropriate, as new mayors should be allowed time to take pride in their considerable achievement.

And so ends day one.

Day two inevitably delivers something different—the reality of the tough road ahead.

There’s a budget to redraft and pass. There are department heads to confirm. Managers need to learn their positions, their people, the way things are done around city hall. The to-do list goes on and on.

Harrisburg’s last three mayors all went about their jobs in different ways, with very different demeanors and with differing results. City residents soon will understand that Williams, too, has her own way of doing things.

Having said this, despite their profound differences, Williams’ predecessors shared one common trait, and, unfortunately, it wasn’t a positive one.

All three—mayors Reed, Thompson and Papenfuse—had generally poor relations with City Council. So, if there’s one thing I wish for the new mayor at the jump, it’s this—that her administration is able to maintain a respectful and productive working relationship with the city’s legislative branch.

In a dual-branch government, a natural tension exists between the executive and the legislature. They are, after all, two nodes of power, and clashes between them are almost certain. However, in Harrisburg, the relationship has been particularly rough, which has affected the government’s ability to serve the public as well as it should.

Mayor Reed’s approach to council was to co-opt, pressure and coerce. During election cycles, he often put up a “Reed team,” a group of candidates he backed in the hope that they would support his policies. But what’s that old saying—they got bought, but didn’t stay bought? Over time, many council members went their own way, earning the mayor’s open contempt, so that, come the next election, there was a new “Reed team,” which tried to unseat the old one.

Unfortunately, Mayor Thompson adopted some of Reed’s ways, mimicking his imperious governing style. Like her predecessor, she refused to attend council meetings, holing up in her office as, just a floor below, council members debated such critical issues as whether or not to declare municipal bankruptcy. Soon, a solid majority turned against Thompson, preventing her doing much of anything—until the commonwealth stepped in and imposed its own will on the city.

For Papenfuse, the sour tone also began early, when, after just a month in office, he slammed council for cutting the proposed salaries for several of his department heads. After that, the relationship had some ups, but many downs. To his credit, Papenfuse understood the importance of being present at council meetings, putting in face time and having real-time, substantive discussions with council. Nonetheless, members continually complained (as they also did under Reed and Thompson) that the administration didn’t keep them adequately informed, that they received vital information at the last minute, and that the administration was not responsive enough to their questions and concerns. Also, like the mayors before him, Papenfuse didn’t hesitate to publicly condemn council members who didn’t vote his way.

Now, I don’t mean to lay all the blame at the feet of the mayors. Some council members deserve their share, especially those who, over the years, have seemed more interested in grandstanding than governing. However, in the end, Harrisburg has a “strong mayor” form of government, with a full-time chief executive. That puts the primary onus on the mayor to set the tone, set the agenda and see policies through to passage.

A functional city government depends upon a healthy working relationship between the mayor and council and this, ideally, would include the following:

Mayors should regard council members as equal partners in the governing process, not as annoyances, necessary evils or obstacles to get around. Both branches should treat the other with respect.
Mayors should provide council with as complete, honest and timely information as possible, as early as possible.
Mayors should build relationships with members consistently over time and understand the value of lobbying them on important issues. I’ve often been shocked at how little interaction and communication there seems to be between mayors and council members outside of 6 p.m. on Tuesdays.
Mayors must be present at council meetings to answer questions, offer information, and participate in the legislative process in real-time.

Now, I’m no Pollyanna. I understand that differences and disagreements happen, as is always the case in the sausage-making process of passing laws and governing. In addition, council has an enormously important role to play providing oversight of the executive branch, which itself can lead to conflict.

However, there’s healthy conflict for good reasons, in which the antagonists still respect each other and can work together constructively. And then there’s unhealthy, dysfunctional conflict, which becomes personalized and bitter and bleeds over into other issues, to the detriment of the public and its business. In Harrisburg, there’s been too much of the latter, for too long.

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

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Community Corner: Notable Events in February

January 28, 2022 | by Missy Smith

Lake Walk

Feb. 2: Take a moderately paced, 3-mile walk around the lake at Wildwood Park, 100 Wildwood Way, Harrisburg, while enjoying the trees and animals at the park, 12 p.m. to 2 p.m. You can choose to walk a portion of the trail, then turn around at any point if you would like to customize the length of your walk. www.explorewildwoodpark.org

Craft Valentines

Feb. 5: Create your own unique handmade valentine using pressed flowers and other items from nature at Wildwood Park, 100 Wildwood Way, Harrisburg, 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. The cost of the workshop is $10 per person. All ages are welcome; children must be accompanied by an adult. Pre-registration required. www.explorewildwoodpark.org

HBG Flea
Feb. 5: Shop the HBG Flea for local art, vintage treasures, curated curios and unique gifts, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Strawberry Square, Harrisburg. The mission of the HBG Flea is to create a platform for growth in the community by bringing artists, small businesses and patrons together in one place. www.hbgflea.com

Book Sale
Feb. 5, 19: Friends of the New Cumberland Public Library, 1 Benjamin Plaza, will hold pre-owned book sales on the first and third Saturdays, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., in Foundation House, across the shared parking lot from the library. Find books, vintage items, jewelry, music, puzzles, kids’ books, vinyl records and more. www.cumberlandcountylibraries.org

Susquehanna Series

Feb. 8, 22: Join Wildwood Park for virtual presentations about the ecology and recreation of the Susquehanna River 7 to 8:30 p.m. On Feb. 8, Aaron Henning, from the Susquehanna River Basin Commission, will discuss species of ecological importance, and on Feb. 22, a variety of speakers will discuss fishing, kayaking, boating and more. www.explorewildwoodpark.org

Nature Lab
Feb. 11: Explore wildlife photography and filmmaking in a virtual Nature Lab with the State Museum of Pennsylvania, 12:15 to 12:45 p.m. Tracy Graziano, an award-winning wildlife photographer and filmmaker with the Pennsylvania Game Commission, will discuss her experiences documenting animals in their habitats. www.statemuseumpa.org

Love of Art
Feb. 11-13: Hershey Art Association presents “For the Love of Art” exhibit of paintings, prints, photographs, 3D art, handmade jewelry and more in the Milton & Catherine Conservatory at Hershey Gardens, 170 Hotel Rd. The show is Included with admission and free for members. www.hersheyareaartassociation.com

Film Fridays
Feb. 11, 25: Join Fredricksen Library, 100 N. 19th St., Camp Hill, for Film Fridays. On Feb. 11, view “Jessica,” about an aspiring playwright getting over a break-up when she meets Boone, who is also recovering from a recent split. On Feb. 25, view “Rabbit-Proof Fence,” about girls forcibly taken from their families, under an Australian government policy, to be trained as domestic servants. Showings are at 2 and 7 p.m. www.fredricksenlibrary.org

Birds & Coffee
Feb. 12: Stop by the Nature Center at Wildwood Park, 100 Wildwood Way, Harrisburg, for a cup of coffee, tea or hot cocoa, 10 to 11 a.m. Join a naturalist and Appalachian Audubon to observe and count common feeder birds as part of Project FeederWatch. Appalachian Audubon members will also sell bird-friendly coffee. www.explorewildwoodpark.org

Dinner & Dance

Feb. 12: Valley of Harrisburg, A.A.S.R. presents its St. Valentine’s Day Dinner and Dance at the Scottish Rite Theatre, 2701 N. 3rd St. Harrisburg, beginning at 6 p.m. The Italian-themed dinner includes appetizers, dessert, chocolates, treats, flowers and a cash bar. Reservations are $45 per person. www.valleyofharrisburg.org

Book Sale
Feb. 12-13: Joseph T. Simpson Public Library, 16 N. Walnut St. Mechanicsburg, will host a book sale. Shop the regular book sale on Feb. 12, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., or the bag sale on Feb. 13, 1 to 3 p.m., when you can pack as many books that fit in a level bag for $10. www.friendsofsimpsonlibrary.org

Truffles for Couples
Feb. 12, 19: Take your Valentine to the Hershey Story’s Chocolate Lab, 63 W. Chocolate Ave., for an evening of truffle-making for Valentine’s Day, 5:45 p.m. and 7:45 p.m. Guests can enjoy drinking chocolates from around the world and making hand-rolled ganache. Tickets are $25 per person. www.hersheystory.org

Wild Cooking

Feb. 15: Join naturalists at Wildwood Park, 100 Wildwood Way, Harrisburg, to learn about winter wild edibles and how to make shagbark hickory syrup and a variety of teas, 6 to 7:30 p.m. The cost of this workshop is $10 per person. www.explorewildwoodpark.org

Climate Change
Feb. 17: Foreign Policy Association of Harrisburg hosts a talk on “The U.S. and International Climate Change Leadership” with David Titley, Penn State professor of practice in meteorology and a professor of international affairs, at West Shore Country Club, 100 Brentwater Rd., Camp Hill, 7:30 p.m. Dinner precedes the talk. www.fpaharrisburg.org

3rd in The Burg
Feb. 18: Check out the best of Harrisburg during 3rd in the Burg, the monthly arts and culture event, where you can explore and enjoy galleries, restaurants and art spaces throughout downtown and Midtown, 6 to 9 p.m. www.thirdintheburg.org

Musical Showcase
Feb. 18: Joseph T. Simpson Public Library will host a spring musical showcase with local high schools presenting a sampling of songs from their upcoming musicals at Mechanicsburg Brethren in Christ Church, 1050 S. York St., Mechanicsburg, 7 p.m. www.friendsofsimpsonlibrary.org

Free Museum Day

Feb. 19: The National Civil War Museum welcomes the public to its Community Free Day, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Join NCWM staff and volunteers to celebrate Black History Month and Presidents’ Day, with historians, speakers and the newest exhibit, “Above and Beyond: Medal of Honor Recipients of the Civil War.” www.nationalcivilwarmuseum.org

Heart Ball
Feb. 19: American Heart Association hosts the 2022 Capital Region Heart Ball at Hershey Lodge, 325 University Dr., Hershey, 6 to 11 p.m. Feel like an A-list celebrity at Hollywood’s hottest party while supporting a good cause. www.capitalregionpaheartball.heart.org

Book Events

Feb. 19, 26: Celebrate the written word at Cupboard Maker Books, 157 N. Enola Rd., at its upcoming book events, 1 to 3 p.m. Visit with author Carrie Jacob at the book release of her latest work, “Cat Burglar,” on Feb. 19, and with author Mona Shroff at the book signing for her new book, “The Five-Day Reunion,” on Feb. 26. www.cupboardmaker.com

Cultural Series

Feb. 20: “Black Pioneers Beyond the Susquehanna,” with Dr. Cory Young, University of Nebraska, will be held at New Cumberland Library’s Foundation House, 1 Benjamin Plaza, at 3 p.m. Young will share stories of Black pioneers whose lives and labors transformed the Susquehanna River Valley during the 18th century. www.newcumberlandlibrary.org

Education Mixer
Feb. 23: Socialize with local business professionals at Central Penn College/Education Foundation evening mixer, 5 to 7 p.m., at the Conference Center at Central Penn College, 600 Valley St., Summerdale. The event is free and open to West Shore Chamber members. www.wschamber.org

Legislators’ Forum II
Feb. 24: Join the Harrisburg Regional Chamber and the West Shore Chamber of Commerce for the 2022 Legislators’ Forum II, with area members of the PA Senate serving Cumberland, Dauphin and Perry counties at the Hilton Harrisburg, 1 N. 2nd St., from 8 to 10 a.m. Cost to attend is $70 or $45 for members. www.harrisburgregionalchamber.org

Curious Kids
Feb. 24: State Museum of PA, 300 North St., Harrisburg, invites kids ages 3 to 6 and their families to “Curiosity Kids” to learn about sleds and sleighs and how people have travelled and had fun in winter, 11:30 a.m. www.statemuseumpa.org

Decisions 2022
Feb. 24: World Affairs Council of Harrisburg hosts “Great Decisions,” a program on world affairs organized by the Foreign Policy Association. Sessions will be held every Thursday from Feb. 24 to April 21 from 6 to 7 p.m. at, 100 N. 19th St., Camp Hill. www.fpa.org

Fight Cancer

Feb. 26: Central Pennsylvania Coalition United to Fight Cancer hosts the 26th Annual Loving Souls and Sweethearts Cancer Education and Chronic Disease virtual conference, 9 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Topics include breast and prostate cancer, hair restoration, hypertension, COVID-19, loss and grief and anxiety. Registration is $10. www.catalystpa.org

Beautiful Burg

Feb. 28: Ryan Unger, CEO of the Harrisburg Regional Chamber, historian and a longtime historic district resident will present “How Mira Lloyd Dock and the Board of Trade Made Harrisburg ‘The City Beautiful’” at Historic Harrisburg Resource Center, 1230 N. 3rd St., 6 to 7:30 p.m. www.historicharrisburg.org

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A Long Weekend, a Great Man: A driving tour takes you through the life of Frederick Douglass

January 28, 2022 | by Stephanie Kalina-Metzger

Frederick Douglass statue at the Talbot County Courthouse.

For a short month, February seems awfully long.

With the holidays behind us, it may seem like there’s little to look forward to, that is, unless you’re up for a change of scenery. If so, you may want to consider taking a road trip to Maryland to learn more about Frederick Douglass. The Frederick Douglass Driving Tour is not only educational, but also timely, given that it’s Black History Month.

Frederick Douglass, born in 1817, was known as an American social reformer, author, orator and prominent abolitionist. In 1877, he proclaimed, “I’m an Eastern Shoreman, with all that name implies.” So, it stands to reason that the driving tour would start on the eastern shore of Maryland in Queen Anne. The Frederick Douglass Park on the Tuckahoe is where Douglass spent his formative years, which prepared him to fight for civil rights as he matured into adulthood.

About 12 miles away, in the town of Easton, is the Frederick Douglass Statue at the Talbot County Courthouse, where Douglass gave his famous “Self-Made Men” speech to a segregated audience. In the speech, Douglass said, “My theory of self-made men is, then, simply this; they are men of work. Whether or not such men have acquired material, moral or intellectual excellence, honest labor faithfully, steadily and persistently pursued is the best, if not the only explanation, of their success.”

Not far from Easton is the Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum in St. Michaels. The Maritime Museum is comprised of 12 buildings tracing the geological, social and economic history of the Chesapeake Bay. Here, visitors can view the home of Douglass’s sister, Eliza Bailey Mitchell, who lived there with her free husband Peter and their two children. Eliza was one of the only siblings with whom Douglass maintained a relationship throughout the years.

According to Peter Lesher, chief curator at the museum, Peter was enslaved by the Hambletons, who owned what is now Perry Cabin, which is also on the tour and located just west of St. Michaels.

“The Hambletons were persuaded to free their slaves, and Peter was able to work on the land as a wage earner,” Lesher said. “He subsequently purchased Eliza’s freedom.”

Next, head to Annapolis where Douglass delivered several notable speeches at the Maryland State House. In 1874, he spoke in the Senate chamber, a decade after Maryland’s constitution emancipated its slave population. A newspaper account described him walking in front of the painting, “Washington Resigning His Commission,” by Edwin White and reciting from memory George Washington’s resignation speech of Dec. 23, 1783.

Next on the tour is the Banneker-Douglass Museum, also in Annapolis. Housed within the former Mount Moriah African Methodist Episcopal Church, the museum is a collection of African-American artifacts representing history and culture.

Wax & Works

If time permits, consider continuing on to Baltimore to learn about Douglass’s life there, starting at the Fells Point National Historic District. It was here that Douglass was sent by boat from St. Michaels at the age of 8 to live and work as a slave for Hugh Auld. Today, the area is known for its restaurants, pubs and boutiques. It is also home to the Frederick Douglass Isaac Myers Maritime Park, which offers details on Douglass’s life as an enslaved child.

Not far away from the Fells Point area is the President Street Station on President Street in Baltimore. The former train station now houses the Baltimore Civil War Museum. This was a particularly important place for Douglass, for it was here that he escaped slavery in 1838 by disguising himself and boarding a train heading to Philadelphia.

Head north on President Street, and you’ll find the Reginald F. Lewis Museum of African-American History and Culture. The museum celebrates more than 350 years of Maryland African-American history and culture, including the story of Frederick Douglass.

A few miles north of Fells Point is the National Great Blacks in Wax Museum, founded by Dr. Joanne Martin and her late husband Elmer. Dr. Martin explained that the museum, which now houses about 150 wax figures, began modestly in an effort to educate the public.

“We started as a traveling exhibit in 1980, purchasing four wax figures and driving them to schools, churches and malls,” she said.

Martin chuckled as she reflected on the early days, saying that it wasn’t unusual to visit her apartment and see part of Harriett Tubman on a dresser or Douglass’s torso in a corner. The exhibit was so well received that it grew and was moved to a storefront in downtown Baltimore in 1983, before ending up in a firehouse on North Avenue in 1988.

The Maryland tour ends with a visit to the University of Maryland College Park, which features a statue of Douglass in front of the Hornbake Library at Frederick Douglass Square. Visitors can venture inside to view an exhibition titled, “Frederick Douglass: Scholarship and Legacy,” which features his works and images.

If you have a long weekend ahead, you can complete the first half of the tour in one day and continue onto Douglass’s time in Baltimore on day two.

These are just the highlights of a tour that celebrates the life and legacy of Frederick Douglass. Hopefully, this will pique your curiosity to learn even more about this man who changed America.

To learn more, visit www.visitmaryland.org/history/african-american-heritage, where you’ll find a link for the Frederick Douglass Driving Tour.

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Midstate to MMA: Central Pennsylvania punches card for Mixed Martial Arts fighters

January 28, 2022 | by Deborah Lynch

Ed Ruth wrestling for Penn State. Photo by Mark Selders.

When the boys with cauliflower ears sprout up around town, it can mean only one thing—it’s high school wrestling championship season.

Central Pennsylvania has long been a breeding ground for high school wrestling, with District III fielding strong representation in the state tournament each year. Many wrestlers have gone on to heralded college careers, including Harrisburg High’s Phil Davis and former Susquehanna Township High star Ed Ruth, both of whom won national championships at Penn State—Ruth three times.

A newer phenomenon, however, is that wrestlers now have a way to parlay that wrestling success into longer careers. Both Davis and Ruth have enjoyed success as Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) fighters. At 37, Davis remains an active fighter, while Ruth, 31, is taking a hiatus to coach wrestlers as a University of Illinois assistant after first training Olympic wrestling hopefuls at a regional training center in North Carolina.

“District III and all of the greater Harrisburg area is such a hotbed for Pennsylvania wrestling,” said Greg Goldthorp, athletic director at Central Dauphin East and PIAA District III wrestling co-chair. “Pennsylvania is the top state in the nation for wrestling. So, it doesn’t surprise me that many move on to the MMA world and make a name for themselves.”

Takes Time

Mixed Martial Arts is exactly what its name implies—a combination of boxing, grappling, kickboxing, jiu-jitsu and Muay Thai. Let’s break that down.

Boxing is, of course, hitting someone with gloves, while grappling is the wrestling aspect of controlling someone to gain a physical advantage. Kickboxing is a combination of boxing and karate. Brazilian jiu-jitsu is a combat sport that focuses on ground fighting and submission holds. In contrast, Muay Thai is a stand-up, striking martial art, or Thai boxing. That’s not to say a fighter might not throw in some sambo, karate or judo moves, as well.

Sound tough? It is. This is not your father’s WWE, full of predetermined winners and theatrics scripted purely for entertainment. This is probably one of the most extreme physical tests of athleticism.

Does it take a former college wrestling champion to compete at that level? No, but it doesn’t hurt either.

“When you compete at the highest level of college wrestling, it takes a long time to reach the caliber of athlete you are used to competing against,” Davis said of the shift to MMA. “Even though I was outmatched in terms of experience or skill—in every category other than fitness and training—just the ability to know where my body is in space and my overall body control, I’m much better off than the average person.”

MMA fighting exists at many different levels and with a mindboggling number of different organizations. Many amateur organizations exist, but the two biggest professional names are UFC (Ultimate Fighting Championship) and Bellator.

A former Bellator Light Heavyweight World Champion, Davis is 23-6 as a professional fighter, with no intention to retire.

Ruth, meanwhile, is 8-3 as a professional fighter with Bellator in multiple classes, most recently at middleweight. He debuted as a professional fighter in 2016 following two years of freestyle wrestling, including as a U.S. World Team member. Did his wrestling background give him an advantage in MMA?

“It certainly did,” he said. “I felt like I just had better conditioning … the other guy was a lot more tired than I was. It was easier for me to take shots, especially being a wrestler. You kind of dictate whether you’ll be on your feet or on the ground.”

Willing to Lose

Jack Valentin, an MMA trainer with Harrisburg Kickboxing Academy, which operates out of Harrisburg Brazilian Jiu Jitsu and Judo in Lemoyne, does not come from a wrestling background. However, he started kickboxing at 17 to get in shape for the Marines.

“I learned really quick that you need one [a wrestling background],” he said.

He noted that, when he was stationed in the South, he could get away with less wrestling knowledge because it’s not as popular there. But, returning to central Pennsylvania, he took advantage of the good wrestlers here to improve his skills.

Valentin and Dave Brogan of Harrisburg Brazilian Jiu-jitsu and Judo have seen the popularity of martial arts and fighting sports explode since Brogan opened the school in 2012 with 30 students. That’s now up to 675 members, ranging in age from teens to 64.

Brogan’s wife Monica runs a “Dangerous Damsels” self-defense class every week, and Valentin is starting an MMA class for kids as young as 5 after noticing a group of 8- to 10-year olds hanging around the gym to watch MMA practices.

The gym currently has a core group of about 25 MMA fighters with three who are actively fighting. Jace Kendle should turn pro in 2022, Darrel Horcher has already had some pro fights, and Jillian Boyer had her first amateur fight last July. Another local gym, Deep Water Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu on Colonial Road in Harrisburg, also offers MMA training.

While still in State College, both Davis and Ruth teamed with MMA trainer Ryan Gruhn, who now heads CPAMMA (Central PA MMA) there. Gruhn still trains former wrestlers, and his gym boasts many fighters who are multiple-time Muay Thai champions. Gruhn said that MMA hopefuls must be prepared to put in lots of training time and be willing to lose, day in and day out, on the mats.

Two-time national champion Bo Nickal, who graduated from Penn State in 2018 and didn’t want to leave the area, recently opened an American Top Team Happy Valley branch in Pleasant Gap in Centre County. Nickal, who won his first amateur fight last July and has his eyes on the UFC, is joined by Musa Al-Sulaimani, a former Penn State collegiate national boxing camp, and fellow teammate Anthony Cassar, who was a national champ at heavyweight for Penn State, along with several other top-level coaches.

Davis, known in the MMA world as Mr. Wonderful, now lives in Chula Vista, Calif., where he helps coach the Bonita Vista High School wrestling team. He continues to train for the next fight opportunity that might pop up. His favorite thing is to cash in on his celebrity to impact lives—through coaching and high school ministry at his church.

While Ruth admits he saw some good money in MMA, he also moved more than 10 times in 10 years. He wouldn’t mind staying still for a spell as he coaches at Illinois.

“To be honest with you, it’s really awesome to be the coach because when you’re the wrestler, you have to go through all the paces,” he said. “As the coach, I can watch and hop in whenever I want to.”

Now, about those cauliflower ears. They are like a badge of pride for many wrestlers and develop when the ears are crushed while wrestling. This causes a hematoma in the cartilage that then deforms and hardens. It can be avoided by wearing headgear.

Ruth always wore his headgear—he hated that it wasn’t allowed in world freestyle wrestling.

“I’m not a fan of cauliflower ear!” said Ruth, who still has model ears, getting in the last word, just as he usually does in his fights.

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In the Spotlight: Harrisburg Black Newsbeat sets the tone for Black culture, talent, community

January 28, 2022 | by Maddie Gittens

Dr. Kimeka Campbell interviews Winnie Okello.

Often, you’ll find Dr. Kimeka Campbell leading rallies, holding large events, speaking on panels, and talking into the microphone during public comment at Harrisburg City Council meetings. Last year, she added hosting a talk show to her many roles.

Campbell exudes confidence, strength and passion in these leadership positions. So, when asked if she experienced stage fright, I wasn’t expecting to hear her say, “yes.”

But since day one of her show, “Harrisburg Black Newsbeat” at Open Stage, she’s been nervous for every show.

“This is a completely different skillset,” she said. “I’m always thinking—are people going to laugh at my jokes? How do I keep things light, but also inform people? I’m always nervous if people will like it, but they always do.”

One year ago, Campbell began her show at Open Stage. It’s a mix of news, comedy, music, art and interviews, all with one focus—spotlighting the Black community in Harrisburg.

“We try to highlight folks who don’t traditionally get highlighted,” she said. “We want to uplift Black and brown culture and art.”

Campbell is the co-founder of the Young Professionals of Color-Greater Harrisburg and holds a full-time position at Hamilton Health Center, as well. In other words, she’s busy.

But everything she does is part of her goal to build community in the city she calls home.

“It’s always been my heart to show what Harrisburg has blessed me with,” Campbell said.

Addictive Energy

Chris Gibson, production manager at Open Stage, met Campbell at a 2020 rally protesting the killing of George Floyd by a Minnesota police officer. He heard her speak and saw the passion behind her message. This led him to invite her to host a segment on the theater’s show, “My Talented Friends Live.”

According to Gibson, her segment quickly took on a life of its own and developed into its own show.

“It’s been extraordinary,” he said. “The show has really blossomed.”

Campbell hosted shows twice a month from February through December 2021 and is resuming this month after a break in January. Shows feature several special guests—local artists, musicians, activists and business owners, among others.

Each show also has regular segments, like “Sweeping the Streets,” during which Campbell discusses goings-on in Harrisburg, and “Movies and Melanin,” when she highlights films with Black lead actors. She often shares information gleaned from the city council meetings she attends, hoping to create another path of access for residents to educate themselves.

The fun doesn’t stop at the edge of the stage. Campbell encourages audience members to engage, shout out comments, cheer and laugh out loud. While the audience has still been relatively small due to COVID precautions, there’s no lack of energy.

“People will shout things back at us, and it always works,” she said. “It’s like being in my living room.”

Gibson, who produces the show, has felt that energy as he sits behind the camera, calling it “exciting and addictive.”

“It’s always surprising how much joy the show brings to the audience, the guests and ourselves,” he said. “We come off the show with a high.”

All About Community

Harrisburg hip-hop artist Mikkka3K has pursued music for about a year. When Campbell invited her to perform on Black Newsbeat, it was her biggest stage yet.

“I was intimidated,” she said. “But she made me feel so accepted.”

Mikka3K performed her song, “Visions,” on stage and received a standing ovation from the audience.

“It made me feel confident,” she said. “I really appreciate that experience. [Campbell] inspired me so much. She’s doing more for the community than she even knows.”

That’s why Campbell does what she does. She and her husband Basir Vincent, who handles much of the technical work on the show, put in countless hours prepping for each show. This is all added to the time she spends on her many other ventures in the city. To her, it’s all worth it if it’s helping others feel a sense of belonging.

“I know a lot of people who work really hard,” Gibson said. “But I don’t know anyone who works as hard as Dr. Campbell. She’s an inspiration.”

Gibson also explained how much he has learned, as a white man, from being there for every episode of the show. He encouraged other white community members to come and experience the knowledge, activism and talent of the Black community.

Harrisburg Black Newsbeat’s one-year anniversary is in February, fittingly during Black History Month. Campbell has plans for two special shows that will bring back former guests to the stage and feature new games for audience members to participate in. Artists will also have pieces for sale in the theater.

“It’s about highlighting the talented people of Harrisburg,” Campbell said of the show. “It’s all about community for me.”

Harrisburg Black Newsbeat’s anniversary shows will take place at Open Stage on Feb. 9 and 23. Open Stage is located at 25 N. Court St., Harrisburg. For tickets and more information, visit www.openstagehbg.com.

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The Good . . . and the Great: ”Voices of the Eighth” returns to central PA

January 28, 2022 | by Carolina Nicholson

Lyeneal Griffin

“Can any good thing come out of Harrisburg?”

This question is addressed, and answered, this month, as Gamut Theatre and Sankofa African American Theatre Company partner to bring “Echoes of Voices of the Eighth” to the Gamut stage in Harrisburg, as part of Dauphin County’s Black History Celebration.

Opening on Feb. 11, this play by Sharia Benn is a deeper exploration of the Old Eighth Ward. A century ago, this vibrant neighborhood was torn down to make way for the expansion of the state Capitol Complex.

As a continuation of the original show from 2019, “Echoes of Voices of the Eighth” is a journey that transcends time to connect two Black teens from the same Harrisburg neighborhood.

This heartwarming story connects the young and old, past and present, and gone but not forgotten, to celebrate the history-making contributions of African Americans who lived in the Old Eighth Ward.

Poetry and music infuse this original play in which Kay, a soon-to-graduate high-schooler, finds her voice and value during an encounter with the past. On her journey, Kay meets Della, who lived a much different life in the long-gone Eighth Ward. As different as the times they live in are, Kay and Della discover that they are connected in many ways.

I had the opportunity to find out a little more about the play from the perspective of Lyeneal Griffin, a former Gamut Theatre Core Company member.

Griffin returns to Harrisburg this month to work on the production. He explained his opinion on why this story—and why now.

“Mark Twain says, ‘History doesn’t repeat itself, but it often rhymes,’” he said. “It’s important that we leave something of value behind for those who come after us, so that they don’t repeat the same mistakes or experience the same challenges that we face today.”

That goal, he said, is what he considers to be “the soul” of “Echoes of V.O.T.E.”

“It’s an important story about Harrisburg natives, for Harrisburg natives,” he said. “It fills in a blank for a span of time in Harrisburg that has been lost and forgotten, offering a complete narrative of those who came before us.”

So, what can we expect from this reprisal?

“‘Echoes of V.O.T.E.” shares a similar story to the first adaptation, but will give audiences a completely different experience,” he said.

Twelve actors, both native and non-native to the area, portray over 17 characters from the Old Eighth Ward to tell the story.

“Sharia Benn has deepened and expanded the world of the play, including more voices and stories from the prominent individuals of Harrisburg’s Historic Eighth Ward,” he said.

During this journey from present to past and back again, we meet abolitionists, activists, changemakers and poets, who all were instrumental in fighting for the freedom and rights we enjoy today.

So, to reprise the question: “Can any good thing come out of Harrisburg?”

As it turns out, all of these extraordinary people came out of Harrisburg.

Echoes of Voices of the Eighth runs Feb. 11 to 20. Shows are on Fridays and Saturdays at 7:30 p.m. and Sundays at 2:30 p.m. Tickets are “pick your price.” Choose the tier that fits your budget. Recommended tickets are $38, with discounted tiers of $26 or $14 each. To purchase tickets, visit www.gamuttheatre.org or call 717-238-4111.

February Events
at Gamut Theatre

www.gamuttheatre.org
717-238-4111

TMI Improv

Feb. 4, 7:30 p.m.

Doors and bar open 45 minutes before the show.

Tickets are $10 each.

“Echoes of Voices of the Eighth”

By Sharia Benn

Taste of Home: Chef Nadine Graham expands Jamaican restaurant, continues family legacy

January 28, 2022 | by Maddie Gittens

Nadine Graham grew up in a big family, which meant lots of cooks in the kitchen. While it was a necessary daily task of feeding the many family members, it was also a time for bonding.

Graham’s parents were at the helm of it all, teaching her and her siblings how to make the traditional dishes of their home country—Jamaica. The crew cooked for their community, including local politicians and business people. Graham’s father also owned a successful bakery.

The days of cooking with her family in Jamaica may have long passed, but, if anything, Graham has only spent more time in the kitchen in the years following her move to the United States. She’s cooking up those same Jamaican dishes, but for a different community.

Porters House, Graham’s Caribbean restaurant, a long-time Broad Street Market vendor, has expanded. The business now has its own standalone restaurant in Uptown Harrisburg, and Graham couldn’t be prouder to see her dream come true.

Craving Caribbean

After moving from Jamaica to New York to Harrisburg, Graham realized that authentic Jamaican cuisine was hard to come by in the area.

She set out to change that, opening Porters House in 2012, at a time when there were only a few other vendors in the now-packed market.

“This is the overall most authentic Jamaican restaurant from here to Philadelphia and Baltimore,” she said.

Graham grew to love the market, making friends with regular customers and fellow market vendors. But she had a dream of growing her business and owning a restaurant, like her dad had with his bakery in Jamaica.

In December, she opened Porters House on N. 6th Street, painting the roof with the colors of the Jamaican flag. The inside of the restaurant is just as colorful. Palm trees painted on the walls give it a Caribbean feel, making even the winter months feel tropical.

At the counter, customers will recognize dishes from the market stand. There’s fish, jerk shrimp, chicken soup, oxtail and beef patties, among other items. Graham’s keeping some foods, like soup specials, exclusively at the market to encourage customers to visit both locations.

If anyone knows authentic Jamaican food, it’s Raphael Simpson, and he gave Porters House a rave review.

Simpson comes from a Jamaican family, and his father owns a Jamaican restaurant in Philadelphia. He discovered Porters House while studying at Penn State University and quickly became a regular. It gave him a taste of home.

“It’s rare that you find somewhere where you really enjoy the food,” Simpson said, referencing how hard it was to find quality Jamaican cuisine in the area. “She really stays true to selling a variety of items. She carries the same or more than places in New York would carry.”

Simpson even convinced Graham to cater quarterly events for PSU’s Caribbean Student Association from 2016-19.

Over the years, they became friends, and Simpson admired the way Graham cared for customers. He recalls sometimes even seeing her give food to those in line who couldn’t afford a meal.

“She sells food, but she loves people,” he said. “She has a beautiful heart, and you can taste it in her food.”

Stuff of Life

Days are long for Graham. She gets up at 4 a.m. to pray and watch the news before work begins at 7. She’s cooking and interacting with customers all day, she said. But she loves it.

“I’ll cook in my sleep,” she said. “If I’m not at the market or cooking, I get depressed. It’s therapy for me.”

When Graham’s father passed away a decade ago, cooking was what got her through. She was depressed for seven years, and seeing the bakery that her father put so much work into close down made it even harder.

But she kept moving forward, knowing how her father would feel seeing her succeed.

“He would be so ecstatic,” Graham said, with tears in her eyes. “He would be very proud.”

After securing the building, once a KFC and later Kennedy Fried Chicken, it took a year of hard work to get the restaurant open. It was taxing, and Graham had her doubts that it would ever open.

But sitting at a table in the restaurant on a Monday afternoon, Graham said that she felt like she had finally made it.

“This project took a lot out of me, and I felt like walking away,” she said. “It’s only up from here. It’s like a dream come true.”

Employee Geneva Hill has seen how Graham has not only succeeded in business, but in creating a welcoming atmosphere for staff and customers.

“She’s like a mom to me,” Hill said. “If I’m down, she picks me up. When I need her, she’s there. It’s like a big, happy family.”

That’s what keeps Graham going through the ups and downs of business—the people. She loves the cooking, but she especially enjoys the one-on-one conversations with regulars and first-timers alike.

For Graham, it all comes back to family. She hopes that Porters House will survive her and be there for her children and grandchildren to visit. She’s already in the kitchen with her young grandson, teaching him to cook, like her family in Jamaica used to do.

“I want to leave a legacy for my children,” Graham said. “Food always brings family together. Food is the stuff of life.”

Porters House has two Harrisburg locations, 2001 N. 6th St. and in the Broad Street Market. For restaurant hours and menus, visit www.portershousecuisine.com.

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February News Digest

January 28, 2022 | by Lawrance Binda and Maddie Gittens

Williams Sworn in as Harrisburg Mayor

Harrisburg’s new Mayor Wanda Williams vowed to be an “authentic leader” as she officially took office early last month.

Commonwealth Court Judge Lori Dumas swore in Williams as the city’s 39th mayor, along with Harrisburg City Council member Ausha Green, at an inaugural ceremony held at Whitaker Center.

Williams, a Democrat, won the November municipal election, dethroning previous two-term mayor Eric Papenfuse, who launched a write-in campaign after narrowly losing to Williams in the primary election.

Also in November, Green won re-election, along with incumbent council member Shamaine Daniels. Newly elected were Ralph Rodriguez and Jocelyn Rawls. Daniels, Rodriguez and Rawls were sworn in on separate occasions.

At the swearing in, Williams explained her inauguration as a new beginning for Harrisburg. She noted that, while the general election season was taxing as she battled Papenfuse and lost both of her parents, she was ready to get to work.

“I hope today that I made [my parents] proud,” Williams said. “We are here today because we came together and said that it’s time for a new dawn in Harrisburg.”

Williams, a lifelong resident of Harrisburg, had served on city council since 2006 and as council president for her last two terms.

At a reorganization meeting last month, council voted for member Danielle Bowers to take Williams’ former seat as council president. Green was chosen to serve as vice president.

Assuming her new role, Williams noted that some of her priorities as mayor will include building affordable housing, creating youth programming, improving infrastructure and fixing the city’s outdated sewer and stormwater systems.

“Now is the time to turn away from politics and focus on the real work that we must do together,” she said. “As we begin our new dawn, we must get back to the basics. Good enough is not good enough anymore.”

Much of the inaugural ceremony centered around Williams’ Christian faith, with local pastors and musicians offering blessings, prayers and song.

Family members also participated. Williams’ grandchildren led the Pledge of Allegiance, and her husband Jerome Williams held the Bible as she was sworn in.

Additionally, a few of Williams’ supporters took to the microphone.

“Wanda has great experience, she’s learned a lot, and I think she’s got the knowledge and experience to lead our city,” said Harrisburg Treasurer Dan Miller. “I, for one, am excited about the change in leadership.”

Samuels Leaves School District

The Harrisburg School District lost its top official last month.

Receiver Dr. Janet Samuels announced her resignation from her role then officially departed on Jan. 29.

In a news release, the district did not specify why Samuels was leaving at this time.

In 2019, the Dauphin County Court of Common Pleas placed Harrisburg under the Pennsylvania Department of Education’s control, selecting Samuels as the receiver of the district. The previous year, she served as chief recovery officer for the district.

With the appointment of Samuels, the school board was stripped of most of its power, with Samuels the sole vote on administrative proposals.

The receivership period was set for three years and is due to expire in June. However, according to the district, Samuels only committed to serve for one year and agreed to update the district’s Amended Financial Recovery Plan. In July 2021, the update was approved by the county court.

“I am honored to have had the privilege of serving the Harrisburg School District, and I am extremely proud of the work completed since my appointment as receiver, especially in the area of the finance,” Samuels said. “Although there is still much work to be done, I am confident the recently approved Amended Financial Recovery Plan, now in place, will serve as a framework to continue the positive trajectory of the Harrisburg School District.”

Samuels thanked the district’s staff, administrators and community stakeholders, along with the Montgomery County Intermediate Unit team, for the work they will continue in the district.

Under Samuels, the district has put a new leadership team in place, headed by Superintendent Eric Turman and Dr. Lori Suski, the district’s recently appointed chief recovery officer.

Bridge Project Details Revealed

The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation last month gave the public details of a major bridge project proposed for Harrisburg.

At the Wormleysburg Borough Office, PennDOT welcomed the public to comment on its plan to make improvements to the Market Street Bridge.

“We want to know what the public wants,” said Heidi Mertz, the project manager. “We are willing to listen and to see what we can come up with.”

Late last year, PennDOT announced a $63.8 million plan for the bridge, which spans the Susquehanna River, connecting downtown Harrisburg to Wormleysburg, as well as City Island in the middle.

According to PennDOT, the bridge is in “fair to poor” condition with cracking, rusting and drainage issues that must be addressed.

The project will include work on both sides of the bridge. Under the plan, PennDOT will rehab the historic arches of the century-old east portion and replace the deck and cracking sidewalks. They also plan to construct a new superstructure (deck and beams) on the western side.

But there’s a lot more to the project, changes that would impact the users of the bridge, as well as the businesses around it. The project could include cutting out lanes, creating new bike lanes or widening sidewalks.

PennDOT plans to begin construction in 2024. Mertz said that construction could take two to three years, plus additional time for the movement of utility lines under the sidewalks.

This timeline could change, depending on what happens with a proposed I-83 bridge project nearby. According to Mertz, construction on both bridges would not take place at the same time.

Throughout the Market Street Bridge construction, there will be access to City Island, PennDOT stated. They are still seeking public input and deciding how traffic will be maintained and detours employed.

For more information on the project, visit PennDOT’s website. Public comment will be accepted until Feb. 11.

Apartment Plan for “The Plum” Building

One of downtown Harrisburg’s oldest stores has closed up shop, and now its landmark building is slated to become a boutique apartment building.

Last month, Harristown Enterprises said that it had bought the red-brick, Victorian-style building that long housed The Plum, a downtown clothing and accessories store.

The building, at the corner of Locust and N. Court streets, will become a three-unit apartment building, according to Harristown.

“We are delighted to preserve this amazing building, which was built in 1900, and renovate it into three unique and desirable apartments in the heart of downtown,” said Brad Jones, president and CEO of Harristown, which will undertake the project with construction partner, Don Mowery. “Because this was the home of The Plum for more than half a century, purchasing and renovating this building has special meaning.”

Since 1967, The Plum has operated at this location by Isaac Mishkin and, later, with his daughter, Kirsten. The Mishkins put the building up for sale late last year.

“We are happy to see that the building will be preserved,” Isaac Mishkin said. “Having served on the Harristown board of directors for many years, it pleases me to know that they will take care of this historic structure.”

Harristown will renovate the 3,300-square-foot building into three, two-bedroom units, Jones said. He expects the work to begin in February and be completed in the fall.

In recent years, Harristown has converted numerous empty and under-used buildings in downtown Harrisburg from commercial to residential use.

The Plum still operates its store on the west shore, located at 3801 Old Gettysburg Rd., Camp Hill.

Uptown Resource Center Opens

Harrisburg-based nonprofit Breaking The Chainz, Inc. last month cut the ribbon on a new resource center in the Camp Curtin neighborhood.

“We are looking forward to helping people,” said co-founder Kevin Dolphin. “I try to give men and women the chance they need.”

The resource center, located at 2134 N. 6th St., is a place for community members to seek help in areas such as trauma, substance abuse, housing, employment, re-entry and financial literacy, among other issues. It’s a one-stop shop for community members in need, Dolphin explained.

Breaking The Chainz provides counseling and mentoring services, as well as adult and youth educational courses. For services that they don’t provide in-house, staff and volunteers will refer clients to partner organizations.

“It’ll bridge the gap between different organizations and bring us all closer,” said Dorothy Scott, the organization’s co-founder and chief officer of finance and operations.

Scott said that they acquired the building, which was previously a small restaurant, in 2020 and renovated the first floor into an office and meeting space. Funds from a Dauphin County gaming grant assisted in the renovations.

On an upper level of the building are four apartment units. Scott said that they plan to use those as housing for mothers and children fleeing abusive situations.

Also attached to the property is a large garage space that they plan to convert into community meeting rooms and a music studio in the future, Scott said.

Home Sales, Prices Tick Up

Harrisburg-area home sales and prices both ticked higher in December, ending a strong year for previously owned houses.

In the three-county region, 774 homes sold compared to 761 in December 2020, while the median sales price rose to $229,900 versus $219,000 in the year-ago period, according to the Greater Harrisburg Association of Realtors (GHAR).

In Dauphin County, sales totaled 385 housing units, compared to 348 the prior December, as the median sales price rose to $205,550 versus $185,000 last year, GHAR said.

In Cumberland County, 333 houses sold, a decrease of 20 units from the prior December. However, the median sales price rose to $255,900 from $244,820 a year ago, according to GHAR.

Perry County had 46 home sales last month, an increase of six units compared to the prior December, as the median price rose to $190,500 versus $179,900 last year.

Houses in the area were also selling quickly, as the “average days on the market” dropped to 21 days last month compared to 26 days in December 2020, said GHAR.

So Noted

Bill DeVinney last month was named the new chief operating officer of The Englewood, a music venue, restaurant and brewery located just outside of Hershey. Previously, he served as director of operations at Dallastown, Pa.-based Wyndridge Farms and, before that, as regional manager with Iron Hill Brewery and Restaurant, according to The Englewood.

The Foreign Policy Association of Harrisburg last month changed its name to the Foreign Policy Association of Central Pennsylvania. The 72-year-old educational organization made the change to better reflect the regional nature of the group, according to the organization.

Goodwill Keystone Area last month appointed Ed Lada as its new president and CEO. Previously, Lada served as president and CEO of MoKan Goodwill and as vice president of contracts and facility management services for Goodwill of Southeastern Louisiana.

Harrisburg University last month announced a $1 million donation from The GIANT Company for a proposed Center for Advanced Agriculture and Sustainability, a 23,000-square-foot building planned for Harrisburg. The educational and research center will focus on sustainability, controlled environment agriculture and clean water initiatives, according to HU.

Harrisburg University Presents last month announced that it will bring back outdoor concerts this summer to Riverfront Park, with the indie band Lord Huron slated for Aug. 20. Additional shows will be announced soon, according to HU Presents.

Jade Honey last month was named the 2022 board president of Harrisburg Young Professionals (HYP). Honey takes over from Sydney Kyler, who completed her one-year term. In addition, the HYP board named Monika Kohli and Olivia Edwards-Rindfuss as co-vice presidents, Iqbal Singh as treasurer and Allison McFadden as secretary for 2022.

Changing Hands

Adrian St., 2237: M. Wise & C. Bowling to A. Springs, $60,000

Adrian St., 2260: V. & R. Caraballo to C. Austin, $89,250

Balm St., 60: OJK Enterprises to Zion Management LLC, $120,000

Bellevue Rd., 1954: K. Becker to E. Alcantara, $45,500

Benton St., 624: K. & M. Sullivan to S. Ewings, $60,500

Berryhill St., 1627: Lynn & Ryan Investment Properties LLC to GM Estate LLC, $80,000

Berryhill St., 2150: B. Nguyen to Pledgestone Partners LLC, $70,000

Boas St., 220: P. & P. Patel to L. Fee, $107,500

Briggs St., 1909: K. Tasker to SPG Capital LLC, $54,000

Briggs St., 1939: J. Hardman to SPG Capital LLC, $52,500

Brookwood St., 2444: E. McPherson to L. Thomas, $102,000

Calder St., 266: J. & M. Robins to T. Gibson, $139,250

Camp St., 615: T. Fletcher to S. Warren, $69,900

Chestnut St., 1621: A. Bouhach to S. Salmoran, $95,000

Crescent St., 257: E. Seyoum & T. Dessalegn to F. Ahmed, $69,500

Crescent St., 347½: P. & E. Peffley to Medallo Real Estate LLC, $100,000

Derry St., 1137: C. Bennett to P. Novas, $40,000

Derry St., 1151: J. Vogelsong to Porch Time Property LLC, $40,000

Derry St., 1217: J. Vogelsong to P. Novas, $49,900

Derry St., 1219: J. Vogelsong to P. Novas, $49,900

Derry St., 1941: Harrisburg RA Owner LLC & Net Lease Capital Advisors LLC to S. & N. Gandhi, $2,440,000

Derry St., 2131: J. Hardman to SPG Capital LLC, $57,500

Derry St., 2339: R. & M. Malachowski to SNB Real Estate Solutions LLC, $42,500

Derry St., 2517: C. Huynh to E. & C. Saunders, $65,000

Ellersie St., 2340: O. Hernandez to R. Kehinde, $105,000

Emerald St., 245: JTA Consulting Group LLC to B. Moore, $164,300

Evergreen St., 121: SBN VII REO LLC to D&F Realty Holdings LP, $100,000

Green St., 811: J. Zimmerman to W. Hoover, $117,000

Green St., 1007: J. & C. Nunley to R. Hay, $170,000

Green St., 1312: J. & M. Robins to I. Pereira, $134,900

Green St., 1716: M. Hochstetler & J. Crossett to K. & A. Nichols, $174,900

Green St., 1946: P. Sosik to N. Luong & N. Nguyen, $165,000

Green St., 2116: M. & C. Stouffer to Crestmont Consolidated LLC, $130,000

Green St., 2237: JYess Investments LLC to J. Compton, $71,050

Green St., 2941: L. & F. Feinerman to J. & K. Pianka, $365,000

Greenwood St., 2101: B. Miller to O. Thomas, $80,000

Hamilton St., 430: C. Stoute to T. & L. Sneidman, $148,500

Harris St., 203: T. Burke to C. Emig & K. O’Connor, $242,500

Harris St., 441: R. & L. Derr to Legacy Auto Exchange LLC, $56,000

Harris Terr., 2459: T. Tran to M. Phan, $90,000

Harris Terr., 2477: N. & C. Gonzalez to G. Kroschel and K. & R. Becht, $97,000

Herr St., 300: L. Warfel to R. & C. Steele, $120,000

Herr St., 1721: R., V. & D. Fountain to A. Diaz, $42,000

Holly St., 2006: SCC Ward Inc. to SPG Capital LLC, $55,000

Hummel St., 415: J. Vogelsong to Porch Time Property LLC, $40,000

James St., 1321: J. Deya to PA Deals LLC, $80,000

Jefferson St., 2155: B. Torres to 2155 Jefferson Street Harrisburg PA LLC, $60,000

Jefferson St., 2516: M. Waithe to Sulpven LLC, $55,000

Kelker St., 327: G. & P. Eby to 34 Construction Group, $85,000

Kelker St., 429: P. Ryabikin to C. Fee, $105,000

Kensington St., 2034: V. Wisman to J. Prol & A. Seroskie, $41,000

Kensington St., 2105: MidAtlantic IRA, K. Derenzo IRA, N. Potocki IRA to D. Dowling, $64,450

Kensington St., 2200: Lansanah Home Services Group to V. Torres, $110,000

Kensington St., 2309: S. Betcke to D. & S. Dowling, $72,860

Lewis St., 309: J. Laing to D. Cruz, $149,900

Lexington St., 2625: J. Fasciglione to Bridger Investments LLC, $43,500

Linden St., 131: S. Wilkerson to Bridger Investments LLC, $55,000

Manada St., 2003: Henderson & Sons LLC to E. Perez & M. Sanchez, $120,000

Market St., 1203: Corona Enterprise Group to True Sanctuary LLC, $85,000

Market St., 1909: M. & M. Stephens to 6030 Properties LLC, $86,500

Market St., 1912: CPenn Patriot Properties Midtown LLC to SJL Rentals 2 LLC, $150,000

Melrose St., 732: M. & D. Kovalchick to Harrisburg Strong LLC, $56,000

Naudain St., 1527: Vogelsong Investment Properties LLC to Porch Time Property LLC, $40,000

North St., 1942A: R. Speece to B. Wargo, $57,400

N. 2nd St., 1110: MC Investment Properties LLC to PDI Properties LLC, $132,000

N. 2nd St., 1317 & 1709: CPenn Patriot Properties to SJL Rentals 2 LLC, $300,000

N. 2nd St., 2209: M. Luft & J. Schultz to J. & C. Nunley, $262,900

N. 2nd St., 2233: B. Solimeo to Keystone Property Group LLC, $185,000

N. 2nd St., 2650: A. Delmonte to D. & C. Fasching, $259,900

N. 2nd St., 2964: D. & N. Schertz to Invariant Real Estate III LLC, $65,000

N. 2nd St., 3125: D. McCamant to M. Kenz, $99,000

N. 3rd St., 1715: B. Allatt to J. Jacobs & J. Van Leeuwen, $170,000

N. 3rd St., 2020 & 1620 N. 2nd St.: CPenn Properties-Old Uptown LLC to SJL Rentals 2 LLC, $900,000

N. 3rd St., 2110: J. & K. Ginter to Lynn & Ryan Investment Properties LLC, $50,000

N. 3rd St., 2250: T. Bergman to J. Carter, $209,850

N. 3rd St., 2532: D. Tamang & P. Moti to P. Kamba, $190,000

N. 4th St., 1336 & 321 Calder St.: 1037 Maclay St LLC to SJL Rentals 2 LLC, $350,000

N. 4th St., 1905: A. Adesubokan to S. Thorne, $120,900

N. 4th St., 2318: RNR Remodeling to M. Roark, $58,000

N. 4th St., 3119: T. Gottshall to A. Johnson & A. Taylor, $155,900

N. 5th St., 2538: E. Miller to AAA Bouslama Property LLC, $55,000

N. 6th St., 1612: Church of the Living God to Timely Investments LLC, $140,000

N. 6th St., 2227: Meier & Simone LLC to Peace Casa LLC, $40,000

N. 6th St., 2537: Tang & Perkins Property Management LLC to F. Reyes, $90,000

N. 7th St., 2322: M. Goldberg to DAP 7 Curtin LP, $925,000

N. 7th St., 2612: R. Martinez & R. Rasmussen to Q. Nguyen & T. Chu, $86,400

N. 12th St., 33: B. & L. Young to A. & E. Rhon, $47,000

N. 13th St., 116: T. Gilmore to J. Gilmore, $80,000

N. 13th St., 131: T. Patches to F. Contreras, $86,000

N. 15th St., 221: RNR Remodeling to M. & A. Reuveni, $47,825

N. 15th St., 1314: John W. Spencer IRA Equipty Trust Co. Custodian to Neidlinger Enterprises LLC, $41,500

N. 17th St., 717: C. & D. Bacallao to D. Bacallao, $105,000

N. 18th St., 38: D. Boyle to J. Jimenez, $40,000

N. 18th St., 616: E. Green to A. Pierre, $89,000

N. 19th St., 49: Carters Clean Up LLC to 49 19th Street LLC, $70,000

N. 19th St., 719: J. Hardman to SPG Capital LLC, $52,500

N. 19th St., 721: J. Hardman to SPG Capital LLC, $52,500

N. Front St., 1525, Unit 314: A. Winch to T. Yun, $110,000

N. Front St., 1525, Unit 508: A. Breneman to R. Shenoy, $196,000

Park St., 1832: D. Letterlough to D. Boyle, $43,000

Paxton St., 1712: Twin House Real Estate Associates LLC to P. DeJulian & J. Beltre, $125,000

Peffer St., 223: P. Baillie to C. Goff & E. Horne, $154,900

Penn St., 1625: W. Yankey to S. Blank, $215,500

Penn St., 2151: R. Rammouni to R. Estrella, $55,000

Reel St., 2627: J. & A. Robinson to Neidlinger Enterprises LLC, $46,000

Regina St., 1813: Sunshine ABQ Real Estate Investment LLC to M. Camacho, $60,000

Rolleston St., 1143 & 1145: J. Gregorits to A&K Investments Partnership LLC, $75,000

Ross St., 626: J. Vogelsong to WiseChoice USA LLC, $43,000

Rudy Rd., 1955: N. & R. Pierce to A. Miller, $84,900

Rudy Rd., 2221: W. & M. Allen to Top Notch Homes LLC, $107,500

Rumson Dr., 2578: F. Ibohim & L. Gom to R. Rodriguez, $120,000

Seneca St., 331: 2013 M&M Real Estate Fund LLC to M. Vines, $90,000

S. 13th St., 328: C. & K. Epp to K. Alvarez & E. Martinez, $56,000

S. 16th St., 11: J. & K. Ginter to Lynn & Ryan Investment Properties LLC, $50,000

S. 19th St., 1204: O. Banks to G. Pichardo, $65,000

S. 20th St., 214: M. Aljibory to J. Roxbury, $43,500

S. 25th St., 600: D. Pham to G. Diaz, $124,900

S. 25th St., 614: Landmark Holdings Group LLC to T. Tran, $40,000

S. 25th St., 707: US Bank Trust National Assoc. LB Igloo Series IV Trust, SN Servicing Corp., E. Glover & H. Glover to R. Richardson, $85,900

S. Front St., 573: B. & K. Crews to R. English & B. Mackley, $160,000

Spencer St., 1837: L. Lewis to E. Ayala, L. Hernandez & N. Vogt, $52,000

State St., 1829: R. & N. Daniels to R. & M. Welch, $75,000

State St., 1915: L. Hill to A. Elnigoumi, $42,000

State St., 1918: Dreamland Investors LLC to D&A Homes LLC, $79,100

Susquehanna St., 1825: M. Manley to A. McFadden, $150,000

Susquehanna St., 2136: E. & R. Killeen to Embass Investments LLC, $119,500

Swatara St., 2014: H. Chisolm & M. Patterson to Neidlinger Enterprises LLC, $51,000

Verbeke St., 220: J. Sklarosky & M. Palermo to C. Long & N. Kurish, $150,000

Waldo St., 2627: S. Henry to N. & B. Joerger, $85,000

Waldo St., 2632: D. Hargrove & D. Surbrena to SPG Capital LLC, $49,500

Woodbine St., 320: J. & K. Block to J. & J. Mangan, $145,900

Harrisburg property sales for December 2021, greater than $40,000. Source: Dauphin County. Data is assumed to be accurate.

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February Editor’s Note

January 28, 2022 | by Lawrance Binda

Every month, I fret about the weather.

My anxiety begins around the middle of the month, when I first look at the long-range forecast. I’m checking the prediction for 10 days ahead, when we do our big delivery—20,000 or so print copies sent to hundreds of drop-off locations in seven counties around the midstate.

If all looks good (preferably warm and dry), I breathe a sigh of relief and declare all systems go. If the forecast is bad, I may need to adjust the plan. This causes a cascading problem for our staff, our printer and our drivers, who all need to make changes on the fly.

When I started TheBurg, I didn’t realize that one of my greatest concerns each month would be the weather. I guess I can add that to my long list of unforeseen challenges in what I call “the monthly miracle”—producing TheBurg and getting it out on the streets like clockwork, every month for over 13 years.

I mention it this month because February always rises to the top of my weather worries.

Statistically, this is the Harrisburg area’s snowiest month. With the delivery of the February issue, we’re in the heart of mid-winter, smack-dab in the season of snow, ice, wind and cold.

Now, we’ve delivered in some terrible rain and windstorms. But winter weather is another matter entirely. So, here’s hoping the February issue reaches you on time, in perfectly dry condition, on or just before Feb. 1. And if Mother Nature turns against us, don’t worry—we’ll be at your favorite pickup spot soon!

I do hope you’ll grab a copy this month, as you’ll find a wide variety of community news, features, profiles and events. Each February, we pay special honor to our area’s wonderfully rich Black history and culture, so those stories, in particular, are not to be missed.

Lastly, mid-winter reminds me that TheBurg is extremely fortunate to have such an excellent, dedicated and reliable delivery team. Their names aren’t usually in print or on our website, but, without them, we’d be in deep trouble indeed.

So, here’s to Kathy, Lance, Mike, Jenn, Suzanne and Hillary! If you see them making the rounds this month, give them a big “thanks”—and maybe even hold the door open for them. They’re an essential part of getting TheBurg into your hands each month, come rain, shine or snow.

Lawrance Binda
Co-Publisher/Editor-in-Chief

Click here to read the digital issue of TheBurg.

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