PA Farm Show butter sculpture takes us back to nation’s founding

January 8, 2026 | by Alexandra Jones

The Declaration of Independence, the Liberty Bell, founding fathers and Betsy Ross are featured in the PA Farm Show’s 2026 butter sculpture.

State officials and dairy industry leaders unveiled the 2026 PA Farm Show’s butter sculpture on Thursday.

The 1,000-pound sculpture shows a scene from 1776 Philadelphia with several founding fathers—including Benjamin Franklin— signing the Declaration of Independence, the Liberty Bell and Betsy Ross holding an American Flag.

The sculpture was created by husband-and-wife team Jim Victor and Marie Pelton of Montgomery County with butter donated by the Land O’Lakes plant in Carlisle. It celebrates the Farm Show’s 2026 theme, “Growing a Nation,” which honors the Keystone State’s influence on the United States.

“Philadelphia was at the very, very center of our national interest in science and agriculture,” Department of Agriculture secretary Russell Redding explained Thursday. “Our farms led the cities and sustained the Continental Army, powered the industry and built the strong rural communities that continue to anchor our economy.”

The Farm Show theme frames Pennsylvania as an agricultural powerhouse, tracing its legacy back to the nation’s founding.

The PA Farm Show, which runs from Jan. 10 to 17, will also serve as the official kickoff event of America250PA, which counts down to the 250th birthday of the United States on July 4, 2026.

In honor of America250PA, the PA Dairymen’s Association will offer red, white and blue milkshake flights in strawberry, vanilla and blue raspberry flavors. The Farm Show food court will be open to the public on Friday, Jan. 9 from noon to 3 p.m., ahead of the weeklong event.

The Farm Show is the nation’s largest indoor agricultural exposition. It spans 1 million square feet, hosts 6,000 animals and boasts more than 12,000 competitive and 250 commercial exhibits.

“It invites every visitor to connect more people with the products and the places that make agriculture thrive,” said Redding.

Department of Agriculture secretary Russell Redding with a Benjamin Franklin reenactor.

To learn more about the PA Farm Show, visit this website

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At city hall ceremony, Harrisburg swears in new officers to police bureau

January 8, 2026 | by Maddie Gittens

Harrisburg will soon have three new officers on patrol.

Mayor Wanda Williams on Thursday swore in three police officers to the Harrisburg Police Bureau and promoted another during a ceremony at city hall.

“You are stepping forward at a time when the responsibilities of law enforcement are more complex than ever,” Williams said. “Our residents expect professionalism, compassion, accountability and a willingness to build trust with every neighborhood in this city. I believe you are ready for that challenge, and I am proud of each of you for choosing a path that places community at the center of your work.”

New officers include Cedric Bowling, a Harrisburg native and former city park ranger, William Fellenbaum, a Lancaster County native, and Melvin Torres, a McCaskey High School graduate who is bilingual.

The officers will enter field training with the police bureau after completing HACC’s police academy.

Harrisburg Mayor Wanda Williams and Police Commissioner Tom Carter swore in newly promoted Capt. Kyle Gautsch.

Additionally, officer Kyle Gautsch was promoted from lieutenant to captain. Gautsch has worked in the bureau for over 20 years and oversees the Criminal Investigations Division.

Bureau officials also recognized the retirement of Capt. Terry Wealand, who served from 1998 until Jan. 2. Sgt. Tyron Meik, who began in Harrisburg in 1999, Cpl. Derek Fenton, who began in 2002, Forensic Investigator Karen Lyda, who began in 2001, and officer John Doll, who began in 2002, will also retire this month.

At the ceremony, Police Commissioner Tom Carter welcomed the new officers to the bureau.

“Harrisburg police is a family,” he said. “We are a family because I believe, and I know, we have the best officers.”

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Weekend Roundup with Sara Bozich

January 8, 2026 | by Sara Bozich

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

What you’ll find below:

For something new: NEW taproom collab (soft) opens today! YAH Brew and Cartel Brewing are partnering to open Cahoots Taproom & Arcade at the former Tattered Flag location in Middletown.

Worth noting: C’mon, it’s Farm Show week!! I’ll be there this morning for the media preview (so stay tuned to IG), and my friends at Visit Hershey & Harrisburg assembled this guide so you don’t miss a thing (goat snuggling, mullet conteSt, wine, ALL THE FOOD).

Things on my agenda this weekend: I’m soft launching 2026, so all that’s on my agenda (besides youth sports) is the Farm Show Preview and taking down the xmas decor

Quick Links: Thursday • Friday • Saturday • Sunday

Thursday

Vision Board Workshop at Horizons Creative Studio | $ | Lemoyne
Camp Hill Community Blood Drive at Fredricksen Library | Free | Camp Hill
Social Hours at The Willows at Ashcombe Mansion | Free | Mechanicsburg
Mystery Book Club at Cupboard Maker Books | Free | Enola
Remember Your First Nugget Nectar @ Brewhouse Grille | Free | Camp Hill
New Years Trivia Night at Gruver Farms | Free | New Cumberland
Hormone Health + Optimization with Gary Misiti at Restorativ Health and Beauty! | Free | Mechanicsburg
Harrisburg Beer Runners Sworn Brewing – Windsor Plaza 3mi. | Free | Mechanicsburg
Take Five – A Capella Group at Agape Elixir Bar | Free | Harrisburg
Labyrinth 40th Anniversary at West Shore Theatre | $ | New Cumberland
THE OUTLET: MUSIC & POETRY OPEN MIC plus WRITING WORKSHOP at The Appell Center | $ | York
The Alsedek Theatre School Presents: Beetlejuice Jr. at Open Stage | $ | Harrisburg

Friday

Pennsylvania Farm Show – Food Court Opening | Free | Harrisburg
PA Preferred 2026 Reception at the PA Farm Show Complex | $ | Harrisburg
Re-potting workshops at The Plant Witch | Free | Harrisburg
TGIF: Cycle Express Theme Ride- O-Town vs. 98° at H2L Studio | $ | Mechanicsburg
Sculpt + Spritz: TGIF Workout + Happy Hour Class January at H2L Studio | $ | Mechanicsburg
Slow Flow Yoga to Deftones Playlist at H2L Studio | $ | Mechanicsburg
Kevin Kline at Gruver Winery | Free | New Cumberland
Name That Tune Trivia with Ffej @ Tröegs Independent Brewing | Free | Hershey
open mic at Consciousness Coffee | Free | Lemoyne
Labyrinth 40th Anniversary at West Shore Theatre | $ | New Cumberland
CAPFILM: MOONLIGHT 10th Anniversary at The Appelle Cneter | $ | York
Remember Your First Nugget Nectar @ Tellus360 | Free | Lancaster
2nd Friday Contra Dance at Silver Spring Presbyterian Church | $ | Mechanicsburg
Natalie Ness LIVE at The Blue Sky Tavern | Free | Etters
Matt Jameson at Horn Pub | Free | Lewisberry
Tate Lehman and The Blue Chilis at Mad Moose Tavern | Free | Harrisburg
A Cozy, Musical evening with Liz Fulmer, Andrew Pauls, & Friar Jon at West Art | $ | Lancaster
The Amish Outlaws at H Lounge at Hollywood Casino Grantville | Free | Grantville
Agatha Christie’s Rule of Thumb at Oyster Mill Playhouse | $ | Camp Hill
Latin Fuzion Fridayz at Level 2 | Harrisburg

Saturday

Saturday Morning Yoga at Boneshire Brew Works | $ | Harrisburg
Pennsylvania Farm Show | Free | Harrisburg
January Winter Hike at Ned Smith Center | Free | Millersburg
Saturday Schedule: H2L Studio – Be a Weekend Workout Warrior | $ | Mechanicsburg
Bonefish Grill Community Blood Drive | Free | Camp Hill
Community Craft Swap Open House at New York Wire Works | $ | York
New Years Open House at Katie Bean Boutique | Free | Carlisle
Grand Opening & Ribbon Cutting at Rooted Boutique Events | Free | New Cumberland
New Years Book Signing at Cupboard Maker Books | Free | Enola
Dazzling Dogs Watercolor Workshop at Creative Grounds | $ | Mechanicsburg
Board and Pour Weekend at Gruver Farms | Free | New Cumberland
Labyrinth 40th Anniversary at West Shore Theatre | $ | New Cumberland
Harrisburg Symphony Orchestra Masterworks III: Beethoven and Barber at The Forum | $ | Harrisburg
Capital City Bassmaster’s 7th Annual Fishing Show at Marysville Lions Club | $ | Marysville
Reptiles At The York Expo Center | $ | York
Dueling Pianos at Appalachian Brewing Company | Free | Mechanicsburg
Hexbelt at HMAC- Stage on Herr ~ Capricorn Celebration | $ | Harrisburg
Willy Blaze and The Bad News Crew at Mickey’s Black Box | $ | Lititz
Buckle Bunny Party at Nocturnal | Free | Harrisburg
The Alsedek Theatre School Presents: Beetlejuice Jr. at Open Stage | $ | Harrisburg
Agatha Christie’s Rule of Thumb at Oyster Mill Playhouse | $ | Camp Hill
Ciroc Saturdays at Level 2 | Harrisburg
Brewery Tours: York City Walking Tour | $ | York
Brewery Tours: Cruise York County | $ | York
Brewery Tours: Lancaster City Walking Tour | $ | Lancaster
Brewery Tours: Lancaster City Walk-a-Bout! | $ | Lancaster

Sunday

Sunday Tea at The Willows at Ashcombe | $ | Mechanicsburg
Kundalini Yoga with Keane Living at Consciousness Coffee | $ | Lemoyne
Sundays at Stumpy’s! | $ | Hershey
Sunday Night Trivia at McGrath’s Pub | Free | Harrisburg
Pennsylvania Farm Show | Free | Harrisburg
Labyrinth 40th Anniversary at West Shore Theatre | $ | New Cumberland
Troegs Yoga & Sunday Brunch at Tröegs Independent Brewing | Free | Hershey
Run/Yoga/Brunch with Harrisburg Beer Runners at Ever Grain Brewing | Free | Camp Hill
FREE- Beginner Cycling Workshop at H2L Studio | Free | Mechanicsburg
FREE Beginner Barre Workshop at H2L Studio | Free | Mechanicsburg
FREE: Beginner Bootcamp Class at H2L Studio | Free | Mechanicsburg
Breathwork Class at H2L Studio | $ | Mechanicsburg
Winter Walk at Hershey Gardens | $ | Hershey
Harrisburg Symphony Orchestra Masterworks III: Beethoven and Barber at The Forum | $ | Harrisburg
Capital City Bassmaster’s 7th Annual Fishing Show at Marysville Lions Club | $ | Marysville
HYP Book Club at Pursuit Coworking | Free | Harrisburg
Cocktails & Canvases at The Brownstone Lounge | Free | Harrisburg
Music at Pine Street presents Concert Pianist Talon Smith at Pine Street Presbyterian | Free | Harrisburg
Sunday Funday – 10 Year Anniversary Edition! at Midstate Distillery | Free | Mechanicsburg
Board and Pour Weekend at Gruver Farms | Free | New Cumberland
Major Vibes – Syntherapy Sound Bath at West Art | $ | Lancaster
The Alsedek Theatre School Presents: Beetlejuice Jr. at Open Stage | $ | Harrisburg

Extras

New sushi restaurant opens near York (PennLive gift link)
The ultimate Pennsylvania Farm Show Guide (via Visit Hershey & Harrisburg)
Want to share an ‘extra’? Email Sara with interest!

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Harrisburg area ranked #2 in nation for first-time homebuyers, says report

January 7, 2026 | by Maddie Gittens

A house for sale in Harrisburg

Harrisburg has made the list of top markets for new homebuyers.

Realtor.com announced that the Harrisburg region ranked second in the country for first-time homebuyers in 2026, the Greater Harrisburg Association of Realtors (GHAR) shared on Wednesday.

“This ranking highlights the strength of the Harrisburg region as Pennsylvania’s capital— a place where opportunity, affordability, and community come together,” said Tracee Carter, president of GHAR.

The report identified areas based on affordability, abundant for-sale inventory, local amenities and positive metro-level housing forecasts and economic outlooks.

The full list is as follows:

1. Rochester, NY
2. Harrisburg, PA
3. Granite City, IL
4. Birmingham, AL
5. North Little Rock, AR
6. Syracuse, NY
7. Baltimore, MD
8. St. Louis Park, MN
9. Pittsburgh, PA
10. Garfield Heights, OH

According to Realtor.com, in Harrisburg, and the other listed regions, a typical 25- to 34-year-old could buy a median-priced home and spend less than 30% of their income on the monthly mortgage, which the release said is the standard benchmark for affordability.

The company forecasts that, for 2026 in Harrisburg, 25- to 34-year-old homeowners will make up 19.90% of households, and that the average commute to work will take 23 minutes.

For the 12-month period ending in November 2025, the inventory was 37.9 per 1,000 households and the median listing price was $151,999.

For 2025, Harrisburg’s first-time homebuyer location score was 9.3 out of 10.

Wendell Hoover, an agent with Iron Valley Real Estate of Central PA, was pleased to hear of the ranking, but noted that Harrisburg has been a great place for first-time buyers for a while.

“I think it has just slowly increased over the years,” he said. “We are one of the few cities that are very affordable, especially compared to bigger cities.”

Not only does he see people moving into the region to purchase homes, but he also believes that people are buying homes here sooner in life. In other cities, they may have had to rent for much longer to save up money.

Hoover said he believes the positive trend will only continue.

“We should celebrate that,” he said.

For more information, visit Realtor.com.

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Moving to Harrisburg in 2026? Find the Best Apartments for Rent

January 7, 2026 | by Admin

Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, blends historical charm with modern convenience. Its streets feature historic buildings, boutiques, eateries, and cultural sites. Food enthusiasts can savor global dishes and visit many cafes. Art and culture lovers can explore museums, galleries, and theaters. Nature enthusiasts can stroll along trails and parks, with easy access to nearby major cities.

How To Choose Your Next Apartment

Finding the right apartment means more than availability and comfort— consider key factors, such as:

Apartment options: Evaluate studios, one- and two-bedroom apartments and townhomes to suit household size and lifestyle.
Amenities and features: Look for in-unit laundry, modern appliances, fitness centers, pools, outdoor spaces and community clubhouses.
Pet-friendly policies: Ensure pets are welcome and that the community provides supportive spaces, such as dog parks or walking paths.
Location and accessibility: Consider proximity to highways, public transit, shopping, dining, parks and entertainment.
Modern updates and design: Check for refreshed interiors, open layouts and efficient appliances reflecting ongoing investment.
Safety and security: Look for secure entrances, well-lit common areas and responsive property management.
Community environment: Assess the neighborhood culture, noise levels and nearby services to determine comfort and convenience.
Value and cost of living: Compare rent to amenities, location and overall quality for long-term value.

The Best Apartments for Rent in Harrisburg, PA

Discover the best apartments in Harrisburg, PA, from Triple Crown Corporation. These apartments feature top-rated, well-maintained units with modern amenities, comfort and convenient locations across the city.

1. Wynchase II

Wynchase II features roomy 2- and 3-bedroom townhomes with 2.5 baths, situated in a modern, pet-friendly community in Lower Paxton Township, Harrisburg. Residents can relish a tranquil suburban atmosphere while remaining close to major highways and just a short drive from downtown Harrisburg and the state Capitol.

Key Features:

Pet-friendly community
Extensive photo gallery
Bright, open-concept living areas and fully equipped kitchens

2. The Towns on Evelyn

The Towns on Evelyn offer spacious 2- and 3-bedroom townhomes with private entrances and included appliances. Residents have easy access to shopping, dining, parks and entertainment just steps away from their homes.

Key Features:

Family-friendly layouts perfect for all ages
Abundant natural light throughout living spaces
Thoughtful interior design

3. Whisperwood Apartments

Whisperwood Apartments provide studio, one-bedroom, and two-bedroom residences featuring central air conditioning and included utilities. The studios are ideal for individuals or couples, with cozy layouts and ample closet space. Residents enjoy a saltwater pool, on-site laundry facilities.

Key Features:

Access to a sparkling swimming pool and playground for all ages
Pet-friendly community
Exclusive, high-quality amenities

4. The Enclave at Elmerton

The Enclave at Elmerton features roomy 2- and 3-bedroom townhomes that welcome pets, with some units offering a handy garage. Residents can enjoy a pool complete with a splash pad, a fitness center, a clubhouse and picturesque walking trails. Each home comes equipped with full-size washers and dryers.

Key Features:

Sparkling swimming pool and fully equipped fitness center
Beautifully landscaped grounds with inviting community spaces
Convenient location near dining, shopping, parks and entertainment

5. Steeple Chase Apartments

Steeple Chase Apartments, located in Susquehanna Township, presents a serene and inviting community for its residents. Each apartment is designed to provide all the essentials for you to relax, de-stress and savor daily life. Although life can get hectic, your home can still be a tranquil, cozy and accommodating environment that supports your way of living.

Key Features:

Perfect blend of style and spacious living
Designed for convenient, single-level comfort
Includes a private deck or patio for outdoor enjoyment

6. Commerce Park Apartments

Commerce Park Apartments offer a comfortable and convenient living experience. Each apartment blends style, functionality, and a pet-friendly environment. With nearby dining, shopping and entertainment, your home becomes a relaxing retreat in the heart of the city.

Key Features:

Curated selection of premier amenities
Access to a modern fitness center
Pet-friendly community

Why Choose Your Next Apartment with Triple Crown Corporation

Choosing an apartment with Triple Crown Corporation ensures high-quality, thoughtfully maintained living spaces. Its in-house refresh teams keep homes modern and comfortable. It relies on decades of experience in property management, construction and development to deliver a smooth living experience.

The team designs each community to prioritize convenience, safety, and style. Experts handle maintenance promptly, giving residents peace of mind. They strategically place homes near shopping, dining, parks, and major highways. With a long-standing reputation and proven track record, the company delivers excellence in the real estate industry.

The Benefits of Living in Harrisburg

Harrisburg is a welcoming city that blends history with modern amenities. Its streets feature charming historic buildings, shops, restaurants and cultural attractions. Food lovers can enjoy coffee shops and international cuisine, while arts enthusiasts may explore museums, galleries and theaters. Nature lovers can walk along the Susquehanna River or visit nearby state parks.

The city’s central location makes travel to Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, Baltimore and Washington, D.C., easy, with the airport and Amtrak station supporting longer trips. Shoppers can browse farmers’ markets, specialty stores and local boutiques. Pet owners can find parks and pet-friendly spaces. With its blend of history, culture, and convenience, this vibrant capital offers a relaxed lifestyle — making it an ideal destination for anyone seeking apartments in Harrisburg.

Finding Your Perfect Harrisburg Home

Apartments for rent in Harrisburg, PA, offer a unique blend of history, culture, and modern convenience. Whether you’re a single professional, a family, or a pet owner, you’ll find homes that fit your lifestyle. Triple Crown Corporation communities provide well-maintained, modern apartments with thoughtful amenities and pet-friendly options. With convenient locations near shopping, dining, and major highways, these apartments deliver the comfort, quality, and value you need to make Harrisburg your perfect home.

Sponsored Content

Dauphin County OKs Park Harrisburg’s 2026 budget as creditor, discusses grant money for homelessness

January 7, 2026 | by Alexandra Jones

From left: Dauphin County commissioners George Hartwick, Justin Douglas and Mike Pries at Wednesday’s commissioners meeting.

Dauphin County ratified the approval of Park Harrisburg’s 2026 budget at a meeting Wednesday.

Without discussion, the Dauphin County commissioners unanimously voted to ratify Park Harrisburg’s 2026 operating budget alongside 11 other line items at its weekly meeting. The parking vendor has projected $25.6 million in revenue for 2026.

Park Harrisburg’s annual budget requires approval from its creditors, which includes Dauphin County. The county is a signed creditor on series B parking debt as well as a section of its series C parking debt.

The board also approved a month-to-month contract with the new owner of a credit card processing vendor used by the Dauphin County prothonotary’s office.

Commissioner George Hartwick said his top priority for the board this year is the effective management of Dauphin County’s budget.

In December, county commissioners passed, 2-1, a $221.9 million general fund budget, which included a property tax hike for the second year in a row. Commissioner Mike Pries voted “no” due to the 9.75% tax increase, which was below the 15% hike initially included in the county’s proposed budget.

The $221.9 million budget marked a $172,671 decrease from 2025’s budget of $222 million.

Hartwick said Wednesday that the budget would be tightly monitored.

“Every dollar will be justified, every expense will be scrutinized, and every efficiency will be pursued before asking taxpayers for a single additional dollar,” he said.

He added that the goal was to protect Dauphin County residents from a future tax increase.

“Protecting residents from a future tax increase is not optional. It is our responsibility and this budget and its management will reflect that in this upcoming year,” he said.

At the meeting, commissioners also noted that Dauphin County had not received the level of funding expected through an Emergency Solutions Grant for homelessness services. The grant provides federal money to the county for such services through the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development.

Commission chairman Justin Douglas called the ESG grant funding “critical to our region.”

“I’m looking forward to continuing to champion the reinstitution of that grant because we certainly need that,” Douglas added.

Hartwick said that state legislators have been responsive to commissioners’ requests to appeal the amount given and gain access to more funds.

Hartwick further clarified that nowhere in the county code does it say the county is responsible for providing homeless services.

“But because the issues exist and because we want to treat everybody in this community in a way that provides dignity and access to a level of service, the county tends to be the place where we are, unfortunately, finding the majority of the solutions,” he said.

Chief Clerk Eric Hagarty indicated that Dauphin County commissioners will attend a retreat Thursday to plan for the year.

“We’ll collectively engage in a SWOT analysis, identify major ongoing or upcoming projects and map out our work for 2026 in an effort to try to become more proactive in our work, instead of being reactive,” he said.

To learn more about the Dauphin County Commissioners visit this website.

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Cast Your Vote: Friends of Wildwood’s amateur photo contest is ready to be viewed, judged

January 6, 2026 | by Alexandra Jones

Friends of Wildwood’s annual photo exhibition is on display now.

Only a few weeks remain to walk through this year’s amateur photography exhibition at Wildwood Park—and cast your vote for its “People’s Choice Award” winners.

While a panel of professional photographers awarded first, second and third place winners in December, members of the public get to cast votes on their favorite entries for “People’s Choice.”

The annual public photo contest spotlights shots taken around Dauphin County parks by visitors. The contest seeks submissions of observed flora, fauna and other natural beauty.

Pictured: Photo entries in Friends of Wildwood’s annual photo contest.

Many of this year’s entries feature captured sightings of birds, deer, snakes, frogs and insects. Others capture landscapes.

Rick Price of West Hanover said that he submitted two photos this year, including one of a white ibis he saw in 2025 at Wildwood Park.

The photo was interesting to him because the birds are typically found further south, along the Atlantic and Gulf coasts. The first time he saw a white ibis, he said, was in the Florida Keys.

“They’ve been coming further north every year,” he explained.

Price comes to Wildwood weekly to shoot birds and to lead bird walks with his wife Peggy. He said that he enjoys seeing what park visitors have photographed around the county in the annual contest.

“It gives you an opportunity to see what other people have done,” he said.

Price entered his photos, the other of a yellow flower called a spatterdock taken on Wildwood’s canal towpath, in the experienced photographer category.

Photo contest entrant Rick Price at Wildwood Park.

Adult submissions are split into beginner and experienced categories. There is also a youth category for those under 16.

Volunteer Rudy Gornika noted that the beginner’s photography, in particular, caught his eye.

“I was really impressed,” he said.

Gornika, who has been volunteering with Wildwood since 1999, appreciated how they captured wildlife subjects, especially one of a heron.

Twenty-year Wildwood volunteer Ann Pacey echoed this.

“I could not pick a favorite photo this year,” Pacey said. “There were too many good ones.”

The public has until Saturday, Jan. 24, to view the exhibit at the Olewine Nature Center and cast votes. Wildwood will announce the “People’s Choice” winners in February.

The photo contest is run by the Friends of Wildwood organization, a nonprofit that supports Wildwood Park. All photographs were taken at Wildwood, Fort Hunter, Detweiler, Wiconisco Creek or Lykens Glen parks.

Pictured: Photo entries in Friends of Wildwood’s annual photo contest. The bottom two are Rick Price’s white ibis and spatterdock entries.

To learn more about the annual Friends of Wildwood photography contest visit this website.

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Harrisburg City Council members sworn in; president, vice president chosen

January 5, 2026 | by Maddie Gittens

Judge Hanif Johnson swore in Robert Lawson, along with others, to city council during a ceremony in city hall.

Harrisburg City Council swore in members and voted on president and vice president on Monday.

After four council members were sworn in, council voted for Danielle Hill to serve as council president for another two years and for Lamont Jones as vice president.

Before a reorganization meeting, Magisterial District Judge Hanif Johnson swore in re-elected council members Ausha Green, Jocelyn Rawls and Ralph Rodriquez, and newly elected Rob Lawson, who was appointed by council previously and served for one year. Lawson replaces Shamaine Daniels, who did not run for re-election.

Harrisburg City Council during its reorganization meeting Monday.

Hill will return as council president, having been unanimously elected after serving in the role previously. Jones unseated Green as vice president with a vote of 4-3, with Green, Rodriguez and Crystal Davis voting for Green.

“This is something that I want to do to yet again show the city of Harrisburg that I am someone that’s committed to serving us and standing firm in my stance, in my position, in what I believe in, and what I believe the people of this city deserve,” Jones said.

Council will hold its next legislative session on Tuesday, Jan. 13.

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Prominent Howard University choir to sing in Harrisburg next month

January 5, 2026 | by Alexandra Jones

The Howard Gospel Choir

Howard University’s prominent gospel choir will perform next month in downtown Harrisburg, marking the group’s first appearance in the city in a decade.

The Market Square Presbyterian Church will host the Howard Gospel Choir on Sunday, Feb. 15 for a 4 p.m. show. The show is arranged by the church’s Arts on the Square committee, which puts on a series of musical performances each year.

“We are so proud to be bringing this group to Harrisburg audiences, especially during Black History Month,” said Tyler Canonico-Dilley, artistic director for Arts on the Square.

The choir will be accompanied by rhythm musicians, musically directed by Reginald Golden.

The Howard University group, founded in 1968, has been performing gospel music as an ensemble for roughly 50 years.

Tickets are available both in advance and at the door. General seating costs $25. Preferred seating is $30. Tickets for students and children are $15 and $10, respectively.

Free parking is available in the adjacent Market Square Garage.

The Market Square Presbyterian Church is located at 20 S. Second St. in Harrisburg. For more information, visit artsonthesquare.net.

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Wanda Williams sworn in for second term as Harrisburg mayor; council, mayor argue on who is to blame for fired city officials

January 5, 2026 | by Maddie Gittens

Mayor Wanda Williams spoke during her swearing-in ceremony on Monday at Whitaker Center.

Harrisburg Mayor Wanda Williams has begun her second term in office, pledging “discipline, direction and renewed commitment to infrastructure.”

At a ceremony on Monday morning, Williams issued a call for unity among city officials, following Magisterial District Judge Marian Urrutia swearing her into office for another four-year term.

“My administration has a vision for the next four years,” Williams said on stage at Whitaker Center on Monday. “Harrisburg is ready for a new era of responsible growth, a new era of stability and a new era of long-term planning—an era where our children inherit a city that is stronger than the one we inherited.”

Williams won the mayoral election in November, beating her opponent Dan Miller, a Democrat who received the Republican nomination during the primary election, by 5,096 to 3,837 votes.

Williams’ speech, which included her priorities for the new term, spoke to mutual respect between City Council and her administration. The sentiments come at a time when the mayor has been meeting with outside legal counsel to potentially sue council over its 2026 budget amendments, which slashed salaries for several top city positions.

“We will stand firm against the disrespect, misinformation and unnecessary conflict,” Williams said. “Our residents deserve a government that behaves with maturity and professionalism. They deserve decisions that are rooted in facts and certainly not theatrics.”

During her speech, Williams repeatedly praised her staff for their hard work in the city.

When asked by TheBurg, Williams said that, due to council’s budget cuts, three higher-level employees were terminated last week because there was no longer money allocated for their salaries. Those positions include Harrisburg’s business administrator, project director for business administration/LERTA and the police bureau’s director of community engagement and relations. Council also zeroed out the city’s portion of funding for the interim director of building and housing development, which supplements the portion of the salary funded through the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. Gloria Martin-Roberts, the interim director, is still serving in this role.

During Williams’ swearing-in ceremony, TheBurg received an email from council president Danielle Hill with a statement about council’s budget changes. Council put the blame for the staff firings on the mayor, saying that council only removed the positions’ funding.

“Harrisburg City Council did not fire anyone. Mayor Williams fired the interim business director, project director for business development and LERTA administrator, and the director of community engagement and relations,” council’s statement said.

Council initially passed the 2026 budget in mid-December, with Williams vetoing council’s budget amendments soon after. At a special legislative session last week, council overrode the veto.

“If you defunded them, you’re firing them. There’s no money there to have them in place so they’re lying,” Williams told TheBurg in response to council’s statement.

Williams said that she intends to bring a lawsuit against city council over all the budget items that she vetoed, which included the defunded salaries.

“I’m available. There’s no excuse for them,” Williams said. “If they want to sit down and try to work things out, I’m willing. I’ve always been willing.”

In addition to her Monday morning comments about unity in city hall, Williams stressed that infrastructure would be one of her top priorities during her next term in office. She also said that promoting homeownership, battling blight and encouraging workforce development were important to her.

Williams said that her administration has a vision for the city and that her lifelong residence and service in the city make her fit to do the job.

“Progress is not accidental. Progress is built through hard choices, honest conversations and a willingness to see beyond short-term interests to a future that all our children deserve,” Williams said.

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You May Also Like

You May Also Like

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

What you’ll find below:

Quick Links: Thursday • Friday • Saturday • Sunday

Thursday

Friday

Saturday

Sunday

Extras

You May Also Like

You May Also Like

How To Choose Your Next Apartment

The Best Apartments for Rent in Harrisburg, PA

1. Wynchase II

Key Features:

2. The Towns on Evelyn

Key Features:

3. Whisperwood Apartments

Key Features:

4. The Enclave at Elmerton

Key Features:

5. Steeple Chase Apartments

Key Features:

6. Commerce Park Apartments

Key Features:

Why Choose Your Next Apartment with Triple Crown Corporation

The Benefits of Living in Harrisburg

Finding Your Perfect Harrisburg Home

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