A City’s Future: Harrisburg’s mayoral hopefuls state why they’re running, what they’ll do

April 30, 2021 | by TheBurg Staff

If you’re in Harrisburg, you can’t miss it—an important election is upon us.

Signs for the candidates are everywhere, and, if you live in the city, you can’t avoid the ads, the flyers and the canvassers.

This cycle, we’ve asked all the mayoral candidates two open-ended questions. Through their answers, we hope you’ll better understand what’s important to them and maybe even discover something new about their positions and personalities.

Their responses follow in alphabetical order, with the five Democratic candidates listed first followed by the single Republican candidate. We asked candidates to limit their responses to 425 words and made minor edits to conform to our style.

The primary takes place May 18. Please make your voice heard!

Otto Banks (D)

What is the biggest issue Harrisburg faces and how do you plan to address it?

Our adults lack access to quality employment opportunities, affordable and adequate housing, business development and access to community mental, social and medical services. I will incentivize businesses to hire residents through the Work Opportunity Tax Credit, awarding points in city RFP scoring matrices for hiring residents. I will partner with unions to ensure that our residents are trained and prepared for rebuilding our infrastructure and housing stock. I want to create more quality housing options by assisting developers in obtaining Low Income Housing Tax Credits, Redevelopment Assistance Capital, Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) and Home Investment Partnership Funds, and other programs that have long been at our disposal. To address the health deficits, I will ensure that the city’s Department of Health is fully funded and staffed to address the disparities within the social determinants of health.

Our children need quality education with intentional attention on trade schools, recreational, artistic and cultural activities, with summer employment and job readiness training. We can address youth programming deficits by working within HSD’s structure. Through funding and collaborations with HSD, we can expand normal operations by making schools “community centers” where children can obtain tutoring, job training, recreational activities and opportunities for artistic/cultural expression. This program will be underwritten through three funding streams: Title I, CDBG money and EITC Tax Credit money where corporations can contribute to a nonprofit education improvement organization and receive up to a 90% deduction against their state tax liability in addition to the federal deduction for donating to a 501C3. Youth summer employment opportunities will be funded through Parks/Recreation and the Department of Labor’s Youth Build program, a community-based apprenticeship program providing job training/educational opportunities for at-risk youth ages 16 through 24. Lastly, businesses need access to capital, credit and affordable professional support through legal, accounting, administrative and coaching/mentor services. I will expand and redesign the city’s revolving loan program, and work with local banking institutions that receive the city’s deposits to create competitive financial instruments that will be tied directly to city contracts. I also plan to support the local Chamber of Commerce to assist small businesses with locating or providing fiduciary management services.

What qualities does the mayor of Harrisburg need to possess and how do you exemplify them?

Harrisburg’s mayor must be a champion for our city. They must be knowledgeable, driven, devoted, transparent, optimistic, pragmatic, outgoing, versatile, benevolent, compassionate, industrious and a visionary. I have exemplified those qualities through my extensive background as a public servant. I’ve worked to create economic opportunity, contracting and partnerships. I am capable of not only dreaming big but have demonstrable ability to execute.

Kevyn Knox (D)

What is the biggest issue Harrisburg faces and how do you plan to address it?

Inequality! The powers that be seem to worry only about the more affluent residents but very little about the middle and especially the lower income residents. We are a city of 49,000 and the city government needs to be there for everyone!

What qualities does the mayor of Harrisburg need to possess and how do you exemplify them?

The mayor needs to be for the people—all the people! The mayor needs to surround themselves with the most qualified people to do their jobs and help the city and all its residents! The mayor needs to try everything they can to make this a fair and equitable city for all!

Eric Papenfuse (D) (incumbent)

What is the biggest issue Harrisburg faces and how do you plan to address it?

The biggest issue we face this election is whether Harrisburg sustains the progress we’ve made during my administration, or whether it falls back into the despair and dysfunction that originally inspired me to run for office. By nearly every metric, Harrisburg is better off today. Fiscal discipline, balanced budgets, civil discourse between branches of government, the expansion of city services—these were not the norm before I took office. And these advancements could easily be reversed under different leadership.

Challenging me this spring are longtime politicians like Wanda Williams who backed bankruptcy and were part of a broken political system that caused the state to take over the city. Two Republicans are also running in the Democratic primary. One of them has taken tens of thousands of dollars from school-voucher proponents eager to defund the Harrisburg School District. Another, multimillionaire Dave Schankweiler, backed Trump and Perry, fought against President Obama’s agenda, and is spending tens of thousands on anti-gay, anti-choice political consultants, disingenuously trying to persuade Democratic voters that he shares our values. But this is the first time he has even voted in a Democratic municipal primary.

I believe in term limits and pledge that, if voters re-elect me, this will be my last term. We can’t let right-wing ideologues take this city backwards or exploit our divisions. I want to build on the successes we have achieved together. Together, we can and must cultivate a new generation of progressive leaders, whose contributions I welcome and whose voices I pledge to lift up over the next four years.

What qualities does the mayor of Harrisburg need to possess and how do you exemplify them?

The most important quality the mayor must possess is the ability to bring competing stakeholders together to serve the interests of residents and advance the city’s recovery. I am proud to have earned the full support of organized labor and the endorsements of AFSCME, the Teamsters, the Central PA Building Trades and others. I am gratified also to have the support of business leaders and employers who continue to create new opportunities and are helping revitalize our city.

This past term, working with legislators on both sides of the aisle, my administration achieved what many thought impossible: a long-term solution to Harrisburg’s decades-old structural deficit. Harrisburg will be leaving distressed-city status this year, and we have an unprecedented opportunity to work with President Biden’s administration, investing tens of millions of dollars in Harrisburg’s post-COVID recovery. We will be able to address pressing infrastructure needs—from paving neighborhood streets to cleaning up the Susquehanna through proper stormwater management. I want to lead the city into an even brighter future.

Dave Schankweiler (D)

What is the biggest issue Harrisburg faces and how do you plan to address it?

Street violence is Harrisburg’s most challenging issue. It is what stands between us and our dreams for a thriving capital city—a city of 22 neighborhoods alive with arts, culture, festivals and an exciting generation of entrepreneurial talent. Without aggressive action to reverse rising violent crime—especially streets where predominantly Black and brown citizens live—we don’t have a city that works for everyone. And with the highest homicide rate in 30 years, there are no longer safe and unsafe neighborhoods. The shootings on Verbeke and Division streets this year proved that wherever a life falls, we’re all impacted. Making this city safe, clean and livable is a shared responsibility.

In my first full day as mayor, I’ll call on City Council, public safety officials, business, school, church, nonprofit and neighborhood leaders to participate in a Citywide Action Summit on Violence Prevention—a citywide conversation on the root causes of crime. We need to review manpower and resource needs to end violence on city streets, but this won’t get fixed by a single program or one-time infusion of cash. We need citywide commitment to making Harrisburg safe, clean and beautiful. City Hall can no longer be silent on the injustices of violence, trash, blight and crumbling roads.

We’re on the verge of great things—the bright spots in Midtown and downtown are good signs—but a widespread rebirth won’t happen if the city isn’t safe for families in every neighborhood. We must rise together.

What qualities does the mayor of Harrisburg need to possess and how do you exemplify them?

As I’ve watched political and business leaders over the years, it’s clear that, at a minimum, they must possess administrative ability, personal discipline, a strong emotional and spiritual core and an ability to turn critics into counselors. But the best leaders are servant leaders—those who balance confidence with humility. These are leaders who listen, treat co-workers with sincerity and kindness and are able to put another’s interest ahead of their own.

When I left the Republican Party and re-registered as a Democrat, I did so because the party no longer had a vision for the cities. It had lost sight of the dreams and hopes of the people who live in them. But beyond shifting values, my decision was primarily because the leader at the top didn’t possess any of the qualities that make a leader worth following. Instead of being connected to a value system that placed the dignity of others above ambition, Trump possessed an insatiable appetite for self. I couldn’t be associated with that kind of leader and party.

Those who have worked alongside me have said that my ability to listen and bring people together for solutions are some of my best leadership attributes. I would love to have the privilege of serving my neighbors as mayor and putting these skills to work for Harrisburg.

Wanda Williams (D)

What is the biggest issue Harrisburg faces and how do you plan to address it?

There are many vital issues that our city faces in these interesting times in which we live, but I believe these are two of the most important.

Making sure our businesses not just come back after COVID, but that they thrive—and expand into every neighborhood in Harrisburg. I have worked with national and state advocacy groups for almost two decades. I will work to secure as much federal and state funding to assist our businesses hurt by COVID and to help others start new ones.

We must continue to work to keep our neighborhoods safe. I will start programs that keep our youth active and out of trouble. I will work to create more investment, which will produce more jobs. We also need to make sure all our police have body cams to ensure accountability by all parties.

What qualities does the mayor of Harrisburg need to possess and how do you exemplify them?

Leadership—On every level, I have shown the leadership necessary to be our next mayor. I have led City Council, serving as a check over the last three mayoral administrations, on behalf of the taxpayers. Additionally, I have served on national and state boards to help find solutions to the problems that cities like ours face.

Experience—This does not just apply to my 16 years on City Council, but also my experience with the people of our city. They know that I am real and approachable.

Dedication—I have lived in Harrisburg my entire life and raised my children here. We have all attended our schools and worked to make our city better. I have served on City Council for the last 16 years. I have been a Democrat my entire life and have never wavered in my support for Democratic candidates and for labor unions. This will never change.

Compassion—Like people, a city has up and downs, tragedies and bright spots. I have shared in our people’s good times and bad. I’ve had a member of my family shot by random violence. I know when our people are suffering and need help. I will always stand with the good people of Harrisburg, who deserve safe streets, good government services and a mayor who will listen to them.

Courage—When our city was in its most dire financial state, I stood up to the Commonwealth and Wall Street bond traders that wanted to tax our residents into oblivion and sell all our assets. I said no and was able to help forge a better, fairer deal for the taxpayers of our city. I will always speak truth to power.

Timothy Rowbottom (R)

What is the biggest issue Harrisburg faces and how do you plan to address it?

There are a number of great issues, all having relevance to each other. The lack of empowerment opportunities is tied to the corrupt Dauphin County prison pipeline system that includes the halfway houses, methadone clinics and the work release center. Another great issue that plagues this city, is opportunist politicians who only come around every four years to play the residents for their votes while delivering nothing in return. For too long the executive branch of Harrisburg has used the codes office as a weapon, attacked residents and catered to extremist views. No longer can we allow the Harrisburg Redevelopment Authority to abuse its office, while Allison Hill and other broken blocks throughout the city are left in desolation.

The defund the police movement will be a disaster for this city and will leave the most vulnerable residents open to criminal victimhood. While I do believe that some police officers should not be police officers, and some judges shouldn’t be judges, I also believe that in order to instill morale among the police and to retain good officers, that respect should be given to those who put their lives on the line to keep us safe.

Let’s call insanity, insanity, and stand together to push back on corruption. It is time that this city has a leader who respects private property rights, and respects the will of ALL people, not just those who donate to a campaign.

I will confront these institutions directly and deliver on the words that I speak.

What qualities does the mayor of Harrisburg need to possess and how do you exemplify them?

I believe all decisions are rooted in fear or faith-based principles, and I believe in order to bring the city out of the dysfunction that it is in, is to operate on faith while instilling hope for a better decade ahead. Harrisburg needs a leader who is not intimidated. Harrisburg needs a leader who is not enslaved to their donors.

Everybody who has their heart in this city has watched how opportunities have been squandered, neighborhoods have not been elevated, how businesses have been chased out through leadership vendettas, and everybody knows the core of the issue is a lack of proper understanding of a representative government. We elect representatives, not dictators.

I will listen to anyone who comes with a fruitful conversation and has actionable ideas.

I’ve put my money where my mouth is by investing my life and talent into Allison Hill.

Win, lose or draw, I am here to serve.

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Locked Up to Locked Down: Harrisburg organizations help people re-enter a pandemic-stricken society after prison

April 30, 2021 | by Maddie Conley Gittens

Marsha Curry-Nixon

Marsha Curry-Nixon was once incarcerated herself, before she started helping others.

Her experience in the system made her able to relate to other people now in those shoes, she says.

Curry-Nixon was released from prison in 1996 and moved to Harrisburg. It was a fresh start, but it wasn’t easy. She was recovering from drug addiction, looking for a place to live, and preparing to reclaim custody of her children. On top of that, she would soon start college at HACC.

She faced so many challenges during re-entry into society, but still, she couldn’t imagine adding one more thing on top of that—the COVID-19 pandemic.

“This is the very crisis that could cause somebody to go back to prison,” she said.

At Curry-Nixon’s nonprofit, Amiracle4sure, her team has been busy trying to keep that from happening. Over the years, their programs have had much success deterring recidivism, but 2020 brought unprecedented challenges.

She pulled out her phone to tell me how she’s downloaded apps for Instacart, a grocery delivery service, and Uber.

“I need to get people to work and to doctors’ appointments,” she said. “I’ll do everything I can do in my power until I have the last penny in my bank account.”

Funds at Amiracle4sure have been slim. Curry-Nixon joked that she needed a very rich person to donate a lot of money. But case managers have continued to help clients get jobs, housing and food during a time when resources are scarce.

The goal, every day, is do not go to jail,” she said. “That’s the ultimate goal—what do we need to do to stop this person from getting to a place of desperation that they commit another crime and end up back in prison.”

New Start

Kerry Sawyers was released from prison to Harrisburg about three months ago. He was released to a world still grappling with the pandemic, but Sawyers was quite familiar with the effects the virus could have, even inside the prison walls.

Fifteen people died from COVID-19 in his section alone, he said. Sawyers secluded himself as best he could. He didn’t play cards with the other men, but just stayed in his cell.

When he was released, he couldn’t believe it when he saw people walking around without masks on, talking to friends and shaking hands.

“It’s like they don’t care,” he said.

Sawyers got connected with Dr. Kevin Dolphin, founder of Breaking The Chainz, Inc., a nonprofit that assists with re-entry, and moved into one of the organization’s halfway houses. The environment at the house is stable, Sawyers said. Dolphin has strict rules to keep people safe and out of trouble, he explained.

Sawyers will likely stay at the halfway house for six months or whenever he’s saved enough money to move out.

Finding a job was a whole other beast. Coming out of prison, he had no I.D. besides a state prison card that often drew squinted eyes from employers and unanswered promises that they would follow up with him.

“No one wants a prisoner working for them,” Sawyers said.

For formerly incarcerated people, finding a job is hard. It’s even harder during a pandemic.

“Half the businesses that were there before I went to prison are gone now,” he said. “They’ve dried up.”

It took him seven weeks of searching every day to find a job. It was horrible, he said. But now that his life is looking a little more stable, he had a sense of hope, even if it was just a small glimmer.

“Things can only get better from here,” he said, attributing where he is now to the help he received from Dolphin.

Finding Home

AliceAnne Frost

AliceAnne Frost is the CEO of “The Program, It’s About Change,” which has offices in Harrisburg and York.

They offer family reunification, workforce development, mentoring and other services, but Frost said that housing is the fundamental need. The pandemic has only amplified that, she said. Frost explained that, while landlords are sometimes reluctant to rent to formerly incarcerated people, they’ve been even more resistant during COVID.

In an effort to keep people in their homes, the Centers for Disease Control enacted a federal ban on evictions and, locally, Harrisburg created a moratorium. While those have kept people in their homes for months, Frost and Curry-Nixon have also seen it keep people out of homes.

If a landlord decides to rent to someone who they believe may not have the means to continuously pay rent, the moratoriums would likely keep them from being able to evict that person. Curry-Nixon explained how she has seen this keep landlords from renting to ex-felons.

“As someone coming home from incarceration, your number-one thing is you have to have a home plan,” Frost said. “You want stability in your life.”

One way The Program helps fill that need is through a service they provide in York for formerly incarcerated homeless people. Through a grant from York County, they’ve been able to assist clients with paying rent, making it easier for them to find housing, Frost said.

“When where you’re going to lay your head at night is an unknown, that just leads to their stress of how they’re going to succeed,” she said.

Not Hard, Difficult

Kevin Dolphin

In addition to Dolphin leading Breaking The Chainz, he’s also a writer. He recently published a book, “If These Prison Walls Could Talk,” which tells his story and the story of other men and women who were imprisoned.

He knows a thing or two about words, most importantly that they hold power.

“I don’t like to use the word ‘hard,’” he said. “‘Hard’ is not a part of my vocabulary. If I think something is hard then it’s going to be hard.”

Dolphin said that, instead, he uses the word “difficult.” He thinks it sounds like something that he could overcome, like a challenge.

This year has been difficult for Dolphin and for the men he serves. He hasn’t been able to visit prisons and teach his classes to convicts. The waiting list to get in is backed up by over a year now. Many of his programs for those re-entering society have moved to a virtual format, making it harder to stay in contact, he said.

But, for Dolphin, it’s all something he can overcome. He has to. People like Sawyers’ futures are on the line. Plus, he did time in prison himself. He knows how essential these services are.

“My heart is in it,” he said. “The passion that I have is so strong.”

Curry-Nixon feels the same way. If anything positive came out of the pandemic, it was how she was able to help her clients through an uncertain time, she said.

She told me about a client who died from COVID and how she talks to his widow and her children every day. Curry-Nixon teared up as she said how blessed she felt to comfort the woman through her grief.

“For her to trust me, that is what makes this so bearable,” she said. “She can depend on us, and that’s the key to coming out of prison. You need someone to depend on.”

Amiracle4sure is located at 1735 State St., Harrisburg. For more information, visit www.amiracle4sure.com.

To learn more about Breaking The Chainz, Inc., visit www.breakingthechainz.webs.com.

“The Program, It’s About Change” has offices at 1515 Derry St., Harrisburg and 506 S. George St., York. For more information, visit www.theprogramitsaboutchange.org.

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Count Me In: 13 candidates compete for seats on Harrisburg’s City Council

April 30, 2021 | by TheBurg Staff

Six mayoral candidates may seem like a crowded field, but how about 13 candidates for City Council?

Luckily, you can vote for several, as four, four-year seats are up in the primary election this year. Two current council members are running for re-election, accompanied on the ballot by 11 challengers. All are running for Democratic nominations.

We asked each candidate two questions and printed their answers below, listed in alphabetical order. Responses were limited to 275 words and received minor edits to conform to our style requirements.

We hope that these answers will help inform your decision as you head to the voting booth for the May 18 primary.

Vishal Bajpai

Which city issue are you most passionate about?

One of the primary reasons I am running for council is to change our city’s approach to public safety, particularly when it comes to budgetary priorities. The most recent budget, for example, increased the police department’s funding by around $2 million, bringing the total budget for police to about $21 million, without introducing any meaningful reforms.

I strongly believe we need to explore alternatives to public safety centered on community development and social services rather than relying on increased levels of policing. We need to be funding counselors, nurses and career coaches at Harrisburg public schools, not more police officers. We need a citizens’ review board with the power to investigate police misconduct. We need real investments in city infrastructure and social programs to address the root of these issues and build a city for all of us.

This is a large field of candidates; what sets you apart from the others?

My commitment to community driven change and focus on innovative policy strategies sets me apart in this field of candidates. Part of that commitment is borne out in my approach to campaigning. Any Harrisburg resident can go to my website and schedule time to speak with me about the issues that are important to them. As a member of city council, I will work proactively to include Harrisburg residents in the political process and fight for policy changes that meet resident needs. Now more than ever, our city council needs creative, bold leadership, not a rubber stamp for the mayor’s agenda.

Lori Ann Beamer-Saulisbury

Which city issue are you most passionate about?

The issue I have with the city is the lack of communication in our governing body as city council. There has to be better communication with each other and not just friends alone in our political arena during election times. As a council member there must be better talks with the mayoral office as a team effort of the city government, with other officials alike. This will bring better understanding to the city at large for the betterment of the people, not just downtown and Midtown but the whole town of Harrisburg. I believe when the people see and hear a government with kindness, love and genuine care, this encourages our residents, seniors, youth and children, along with businesses, stakeholders, investors and entrepreneurs to be better too for the betterment of Harrisburg.

This is a large field of candidates; what sets you apart from the others?

The most important thing to set me apart from the candidates is my 25 years as a servant and minister of the gospel of Jesus Christ reconciling people back to GOD, which is the GREATEST opportunity for mankind to demonstrate love, kindness and care for their fellow man. I also have 15 years of service in Harrisburg as a volunteer, a community activist for stop the violence prayer vigils and street march collaboration gatherings. Additionally, I served for 15 years as a two-term Democratic committeewoman, two-term NAACP Executive Board member and WIN (Women in NAACP) Committee Chairwoman. Wisdom, experience and skill are the defining factors to become the next city council member for Harrisburg. Bring better communication to our governmental body through policies, safety and redevelopment for the BETTERMENT OF HARRISBURG. Bring BETTER hope, help and affordable housing for the less fortunate and homeless alike, giving neighborhoods a better sense of pride and dignity while inviting business owners to invest and create revenue for our city.

Roy Christ

Which city issue are you most passionate about?

I am passionate about many things in our great city, but I have chosen just a few to talk about here. I believe that if we can make a difference in these areas we will be able to expose the greatness that is Harrisburg. Without the people who live here, Harrisburg is but a name on a map. I believe that, in order for our city to become what we can, we need family sustainable wages. We have the advantage of having labor and industry right here in our backyard, and we can take advantage of that. Every first Thursday of the month the Governor’s Training and Apprenticeship Council meets. In those meetings the council goes over the new things that are going on in industry, and it is open to the public. We should have someone there. Training is key. If we have the best-trained workers, industry will build a path to our door. Blight is a very serious problem in our city. We need to pass legislation that holds the LLCs accountable for the property that they buy. Way too many times they buy and sell property in our city like it was a trading card and leave neighborhoods a mess. I have a plan to make them accountable for what they do. Lastly, I truly believe that quality of life issues should be treated like buildings are. We incentivize building in the city, so why not incentivize quality of life issues? If we gave breaks for grocery stores and transportation, we would go a long way towards helping each other.

This is a large field of candidates; what sets you apart from the others?

What sets me apart from the rest of the people running is experience. I have served the city in some capacity for almost 20 years now. I have at some point fought for everyone in our city. I still have a lot of “good trouble” in me.

Shamaine Daniels (incumbent)

Which city issue are you most passionate about?

There isn’t one issue I am interested in. I would say I am more focused on a series of issues that intersect with each other to support and maintain poverty among our residents. I would like to see barriers to self-sufficiency removed, changing our focus away from divestment from and towards investment into our residents, and ending inequitable provision of city services and enforcement of our laws. I have a voting record residents could examine to see that my vote has been consistent with those principles.

This is a large field of candidates; what sets you apart from the others?

I have experience as a council person as well as a litigator holding government accountable when it fails its residents. Because of my non-political work, I also have insight into the lived experiences of our residents in a way that few other professions allow.

Crystal Davis

Which city issue are you most passionate about?

Public Works is the issue that I am most passionate about. During my conversations with the residents of Harrisburg about their concerns, I’ve learned that problems with impaired infrastructure, deteriorating potholes, trash accumulation, crumbling sidewalks, inoperative street lights and missing street signs, to name a few, are at the forefront of all of our frustrations.

Broken streetlights promote crime and residents are afraid to go out and walk. Motorists are at an increased risk of losing control of their vehicles and having fatal injuries due to dangerous road conditions. Wherever garbage is left to sit for long periods of time soil and drinking water can become contaminated, and it becomes a hotspot for animals carrying diseases.

This is a large field of candidates; what sets you apart from the others?

A lifelong history of serving is what sets me apart from the other candidates. After graduating from Harrisburg High School, I joined and served in the United States Army during the Desert Storm War era for six years where I attended aviation school. My desire to continue serving after I left the military is what guided me to pursue higher education and become a licensed nurse. Serving as a nurse has allowed me to care for the health and wellbeing of our seniors, disabled veterans and the mentally challenged in our community and surrounding communities.

Desiring to serve the community at the grassroots level, I became the founder and CEO of At Home Personal Care, LLC, a home care agency that remained on the front lines during the pandemic to ensure that the continued safety and wellbeing of our residents was not interrupted.

I’ll bring the same dedication to city council.

Carrie Fowler

Which city issue are you most passionate about?

There is not just ONE issue I am passionate about in our city! I am passionate about our residents and the social and economic growth of the businesses and residents that call Harrisburg home. When you love something you step up, you fight for it and do whatever it takes to make it better! These issues include: safety, trash, city response to problems, economic growth and codes enforcement! Blight is intimately connected to many of the problems in our city that I would like to solve around health, crime, poverty and economic development. I am tired of city government that is reactive not proactive. We have forgotten about key parts of our city for too many years and I want to focus on all neighborhoods. Neighborhoods are the heart and soul of our city!

This is a large field of candidates; what sets you apart from the others?

As a master level social worker, this sets me apart from other candidates! I am a professionally trained communicator with concrete ideas about how to empower communities. I understand socioeconomic problems and am committed to bringing these skills to decision making. I will bring to city council the same passion, grit and tenacity that I brought to the Harrisburg School Board of Directors. I know how government works, and I know how government can work. Recent professional roles I have held include, political organizing director for Tom Steyer’s 2020 presidential campaign, and organizing director for Planned Parenthood in the Senate endorsed candidates’ races for 2020.

I come prepared on day one with the knowledge, skills and grit that a council member must have to get the job done.

Sarah Gethers

Which city issue are you most passionate about?

Harrisburg consists of so many incredible BIPOC, and yet we are often left 10 steps behind white families and business owners. Minorities struggle to succeed in personal and business endeavors, with limited access to the myriad of resources and programs that are underrepresented and not communicated publicly. I am most passionate about equipping Black and brown citizens with an efficient and effective way to access important resources in our city. Young Black families should have support in their hopes to own a home. Latinx citizens should receive clear communication no matter what neighborhood they live in. Black business owners deserve honest guidance from city government. If elected to city council, I would create transparent access to resources for minority communities in Harrisburg. The way our city operates should not be a puzzle to solve for the people living in it. We need to have documents, websites and COVID-safe meetings where elected officials and local citizens can discuss the important needs of the community in layman’s terms and determine how our city can best serve its biggest priority: the people.

This is a large field of candidates; what sets you apart from the others?

Dealing with power-hungry politicians is exhausting. I believe what sets me apart from most is that I can serve as a city council member with a fresh perspective, clearly seeing where the city is hurting without being jaded by years of politics. Through my own experiences and countless conversations with concerned citizens, I understand the issues our city is truly facing. My first priority is listening to the people, not benefiting any personal, business or political relationships. I will meet the real needs of all residents, no matter what neighborhood, profession or background.

Ausha Green (incumbent)

Which city issue are you most passionate about?

The city of Harrisburg is truly at a pivotal point as we become financially stable. Now is the time to invest in the citizens who have stood by outside through financial hardships and continue to be dedicated to our city. We must focus on encouraging development throughout the city, reducing crime, encouraging truly affordable housing in the city and providing resources to city residents.

This is a large field of candidates; what sets you apart from the others?

Being a lifelong resident of the city, I know the issues the city has long faced. As a current member of Harrisburg city council I also have the experience and understand the process to get things done.

Lavet Henderson

Which city issue are you most passionate about?

If elected, the issues that I will fight for are child safety, leveraging resources for mental health and reducing gun violence. I want to address poverty and the conditions of families struggling, particularly at-risk youth. The city has limited resources, but when the city does get additional funding from the federal or state government, those dollars should be allocated to supporting struggling communities. If elected, I will make sure funds will be responsibly allocated to programs and organizations working on re-entry, childcare and mental health services.

This is a large field of candidates; what sets you apart from the others?

As a lifelong Harrisburg native, I deeply understand the issues facing our residents because I myself have experienced many of them. I’ve lost loved ones to gun violence and have seen our community youth become victims to a solvable problem. I know that if I’m elected, I will always make the best decision on behalf of the constituents in the city because I’m one of them. I know what it’s like to not be heard, and I don’t want others to feel that way. If elected, l plan to lead with inclusion and fairness to all. I do not believe in continuing to divide our country, instead I believe in leading with unity and being inclusive to all no matter the ethnicity, background or culture of the person.

I’d like to wish all of the candidates the very best, and sincerely I hope we all can work together, win or lose, to move this city forward.

Jennie Jenkins-Dallas

Which city issue are you most passionate about?

I am passionate about housing, which is four separate but connected issues.

First, only 27% of current Harrisburg residents own their homes; by increasing homeownership, we increase our tax base and promote civic pride. If elected, I plan to organize a coalition of housing initiatives to help people establish financial stability and provide them with assistance in buying their first home.

Second, we need to help existing homeowners, especially low-income and elderly residents. There are programs to pay for repairs like roofing and hot water tanks, but we must be proactive in connecting them with those programs to avoid houses falling into disrepair.

Third, we must address homelessness. We will likely see a sharp rise in homelessness when COVID eviction moratoriums expire, and we need to be ready. The city should be strengthening coalitions to find innovative solutions, like the proposed tiny house project for homeless veterans.

Finally, we must tackle the public housing system’s needs by improving management, increasing housing choices, modernizing units and prioritizing resident safety. By expanding job placement and education resources, we can give folks the tools to change their circumstances and move from public housing into homeownership.

This is a large field of candidates; what sets you apart from the others?

I have the wide-ranging experience needed to serve the people of Harrisburg. I was a police officer in the city for 11 years. I am a businesswoman publishing two newspapers, a woman of faith and a wife, mother and grandmother. As the only Latino woman in the race, I represent the diversity that makes Harrisburg so wonderful. Above all, I have the drive, energy and determination to use my experience to effectuate real change. Learn about my complete platform at www.votejennie.com.

[Editor’s Correction: Jennie Jenkins-Dallas states above that she is the only “Latino woman” in the race. This is not accurate. Shamaine Daniels originally hails from Venezuela.]

Robert Lawson

Which city issue are you most passionate about?

I personally feel that Harrisburg is the Crown Jewel of PA. We have a wonderful and diverse population. We’re large enough that you experience an urban flair, yet not so big that you feel lost in the noise. We are home to a great burgeoning art scene, have many great young thinkers, blossoming entrepreneurs and punch way above our weight class in producing athletic talent.

Harrisburg however, has an inferiority complex. This is due to nearly one-third of our residents living below the poverty line. Roughly the same number of residents live a nomadic existence within our city borders, as they deal with evictions and/or substandard housing. Poverty leads to instability. Instability leads to stress. Stress leads to poor school performance, which leads to juvenile delinquency, which leads to over policing, etc.

My passion is to attack the root of Harrisburg’s ills. The “Buy Back Our Blocks” initiative will attack poverty and improve the quality of life by taking a massive effort in improving Harrisburg’s declining housing stock. We must tackle this by investing in our residents by hiring Harrisburg-based and minority-owned contractors. We must rebuild our neighborhoods in the image of the current residents. These residents will in turn support their local restaurants, beauty shops, furniture stores and more. It’s all about recycling our dollars.

This is a large field of candidates; what sets you apart from the others?

I have noticed that we share similar viewpoints on the issues, to varying degrees. We do not, however, share the same hierarchy of importance. Each candidate believes in economic opportunity, I however, believe that is THE issue. We can create a city where the citizens thrive, and then other issues will take care of themselves. I am seeking real solutions to root problems. I have a history of over 20 years in the mortgage and real estate industry; my solutions can provide tangible results. This is a chance to provide real relief in a city that I love.

Jocelyn Rawls

Which city issue are you most passionate about?

The city issues I am most passionate about are the establishment of more innovative youth programs and activities, access to mental health services, success for a variety of small businesses and the continued beautification of Harrisburg. My passion is in working as a community and creating a family environment where each resident is valued, important and acknowledged. We must bring humanity and compassion to the forefront in order to move “Harrisburg Forward.”

This is a large field of candidates; what sets you apart from the others?

What sets me apart from the other candidates is that I have already been a public servant for the past 15 years. As a teacher and mother, I have been fighting for the rights of those who may not be able to fight for themselves. My life experiences have taught me the importance of teamwork, collaboration and unity.

If I am elected to the Harrisburg city council, I will always remember why I ran for office. I am running for Harrisburg city council to support the city of Harrisburg. I am running to serve the people and make sure that their voices are heard. When making decisions, I will always ask myself, how will this decision provide opportunities, support and safety for the residents of Harrisburg? I will not forget them and I will work to make sure that our city government works for the people. I will be a public servant. My campaign is not about Jocelyn Rawls; it is about the residents of Harrisburg.

Ralph Rodriguez

Which city issue are you most passionate about?

While I realize there are a plethora of issues in our city, investing in our youth is vital to moving Harrisburg forward. Providing opportunities and resources to our children is investing in the infrastructure of our future. The parks and recreation department in our city needs additional programming and revamping to occupy and cater to our younger demographic. Especially now, during a global pandemic, while most families are indoors and parents need outlets for their children. Educational STEAM-based initiatives encourage artistic development, community involvement and physical education. Public safety will drastically improve over time by channeling the energy of our youth to productive and positive initiatives. Having a background in program development and coordination, I feel I’ll be an asset to the City of Harrisburg as chair of the Parks and Recreation Committee.

This is a large field of candidates; what sets you apart from the others?

For over a decade I’ve shown consistency and innovation throughout my work. To date, my efforts have assisted thousands of at-risk families in Central PA with basic needs, emergency resources and holiday relief. Through my advocacy for social equality, I’ve led protests that included guests such as Governor Wolf, Mayor Eric Papenfuse and Police Commissioner Thomas Carter that influenced the signing of (HB 1841 & 1910) towards police reform in PA. My most recent honors are both The Central Pennsylvania Business Journal Innovation Award and the endorsement from the Dauphin County Democratic Committee. As your next councilman, I’ll ensure that our citizens are top priority in every piece of legislation voted on. I vow that every dollar allocated will benefit the stakeholders of this municipality. On May 18 vote Ralph Rodriguez for city council, number seven on the Ballot “Because You Deserve More.”

For School Board

The primary ballot this year will be a long one.

Besides mayoral and City Council slates, Harrisburg voters will need to choose their next crop of school board directors.

Seven Democrats are vying for four, four-year seats on the board. The following is a list of the candidates in alphabetical order.

Michael Balsbaugh
Brian Carter (incumbent)
Jorge Collazo
Roslyn Copeland
Jaime Johnsen
Ezra Match (cross-filed as a Democrat and Republican)
Danielle Robinson (incumbent)

In addition, one Democrat, Terricia Radcliff, is running for the lone two-year seat on the board.

The primary election is set for May 18.

To learn more about the school board candidates and their platforms, look for our online story.

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Start to Finish: Rolling Acre hemp farm is about as central PA as it gets

April 30, 2021 | by Rebecca Johnson

Talk about homegrown.

Rolling Acre hemp farm in Carlisle is just that—producing CBD and CBG products from seed to plant to processing.

Situated on a little over 100 tillable acres, the farm used to house horses and grow hay, wheat, soybeans, and, for a short time, garlic. Farmer Rich Roush switched to cultivating hemp a few years ago, after the state government opened hemp permits to producers.

He considered producing industrial hemp for the plant’s fibers, but after realizing that there were no processors in the commonwealth at the time, decided to give another aspect of hemp a shot.

Rolling Acre has since developed a line of CBD and CBG products for personal consumption—tinctures for both pets and humans, and, soon, a topical salve. Because it is not regulated or recognized by the FDA, CBD companies cannot legally market their products as having health benefits.

This is where Rolling Acre’s transparency and education comes in.

“It’s not about selling to every human we encounter,” Roush said. “But it’s that they have a good experience, and they understand it.”

Drive It Home

Rolling Acre products are distributed solely by PennHemp, another homegrown brand, developed by lifelong friends who grew up in Susquehanna Township. PennHemp provides marketing services for Rolling Acre and distributes and sells its products online and across various locations in and around central Pennsylvania.

So, when Matt Wilson, who manages PennHemp’s marketing and distribution, holds down a table at a retail store or an agricultural conference, he shares his personal experiences with CBD and CBG.

“Our thing is trying to educate people and be transparent about things,” Wilson said. “We want people to be comfortable taking our product.”

Upon getting Rolling Acre’s products into a store, Wilson offers to talk to potential customers about the products, educate them about the body’s cannabinoid system, and share customer testimonials.

“If someone’s on the fence, and we tell them we handle [the product] all the way through [the process], they feel much better about it,” Wilson said. “And we really try to drive that home.”

Roush’s parents are in their 90s, and his mother has glaucoma. Roush said that CBG has helped her ocular pressure.

Roush and Wilson both stress the importance of transparency in their operations, as they are responsible for every stage of production. The entire process, they stress—from growing to extraction—happens on the farm in Carlisle.

Many CBD brands get their products from a third party, which makes it difficult to know where it came from and what it contains. But, at Rolling Acre, they buy their seeds from Oregon CBD, grow them in a greenhouse, nurture them in the ground through the summer, harvest the matured plants in the fall, remove the flower, and break it down for cannabinoid extraction—all on-site in Carlisle.

Rolling Acre’s products are third-party tested at the farm and sent to a state-licensed lab that sends the results to the state, a legally required process for hemp growers and CBD producers in PA.

“One of the things about the plant itself is that it draws everything out of the soil,” Roush said. “So, we have to be very careful with what we use.”

Learning Curve

Rolling Acre’s entire process is organic.

They introduce water as necessary through underground irrigation, and they use organic fertilizer. Roush tested the farm’s soil for contaminants, like heavy metals, before he started, and he has never used pesticides, because hemp will draw all of that into its root system.

Roush grew up on a farm and has a professional background in chemistry, which helped him convert the former horse barn into a processing laboratory. The cannabinoid extraction process isn’t just a chemical procedure, though.

“There’s definitely a learning curve with growing it, but also extracting it takes some real finesse to get a clean raw product” for cannabinoid processing, Roush said.

He learned a lot from online courses and training sessions and through pooling the knowledge of colleagues at his environmental consulting firm.

Roush believes that legalizing CBD and other cannabinoids would level all producers under shared regulations and make for cleaner, more straightforward processes.

“The two big things we pride ourselves on, being from PA, are trying to get our name out in our home state that we love so much, and that everything in our products, we know what it is and where it came from, because we do the whole process, from start to finish,” Wilson said.

To learn more about Rolling Acre Farm and its products, visit www.rolling-acre.com.

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Long Live the Law: Harrisburg firm Nauman Smith marks 150 years of practice

April 30, 2021 | by Derek Danneker

The attorneys of Nauman Smith

Few things reach 150 years of age.

Some turtles and whales come to mind. A law firm? Not so much.

But, here in Harrisburg, such a long-lived firm does exist. This year, Nauman, Smith, Shissler & Hall LLP celebrates its sesquicentennial, making it one of the city’s oldest continually operating businesses.

Sarah Schrank, marketing and communications administrator, credits her firm’s longevity to its dedication in building and maintaining relationships.

“We’re very proud of that,” she said.

The city’s oldest law firm was founded in 1871, when Nauman Smith began representing railroads, a booming business at the time as Harrisburg sat at a crossroads of the rapidly expanding freight and passenger rail system.

“Most of those relationships are still intact,” Schrank said. “Even as the earlier versions of the railroad companies have changed hands and maybe changed names over the years, we’ve still maintained those relationships, and we are still well known in that industry.”

It takes integrity to operate in the same city for 150 years, Schrank said.

“The things that we’ve been doing that have gotten us to this point are the things that we’ll continue to do,” she said. “That doesn’t mean we’re old-fashioned, not at all, but we are time-tested.”

The firm’s long history has allowed the partners to see the cyclical nature of the economy and the challenges that small businesses face in the area.

“There’s a lot of confidence and a lot of trust that can be found there,” Schrank said.

Nauman Smith specializes in the law involving small and medium-sized businesses, nonprofits, municipal zoning and regulations. To further fortify its services, it recently brought Ted Benchik, a bankruptcy attorney, to the area.

“Having a bankruptcy lawyer and bringing this new practice in our firm really provides a new way that we can serve our community and our clients,” Schrank said. “So, what we’re trying to show is that there’s help, and that it doesn’t have to be something that you’re afraid to talk about.”

Over 150 years, Nauman Smith attorneys have maintained another practice, one that is not so common any longer among today’s business leaders—civic engagement.

Each of the firm’s five current partners—Spencer Nauman Jr., Benjamin Dunlap Jr., J. Stephen Feinour, Craig Staudenmaier and Joshua Bonn—are active members of the community in organizations such as The Foundation for Enhancing Communities (TFEC), the Harrisburg Area YMCA and the Harrisburg Regional Chamber and CREDC, among others.

“The partners are very respectful of each other, and they really do look for consensus when they’re making decisions,” Schrank said.

Bonn, the youngest of the Nauman Smith partners, joined 12 years ago and is positioned to help lead the firm into the future. He said that joining the firm gave him immediate advantages.

“The partners have such a good reputation in the community that there’s already a level of trust—they already know our high ethical standards,” he said. “We’d like to build a relationship with our client, find out why they’re successful, why their business works and then how we can assist in moving them forward.”

Bonn explained that both he and the other partners prefer to hear directly from their clients and seriously consider their recommendations.

“We never want to tell the client that we do something because that’s the way it’s always been done,” he said.

Bonn said that he anticipates spending the rest of his career with Nauman Smith and recruiting the next generation.

“We’re not just happy to sit back and rest on our 150-year legacy, but we’re looking forward to being around for another 150 years and finding young, diverse talent that wants to partner with us,” he said.

Schrank said that a sustained focus on employing good people and maintaining high ethical standards has led to the firm’s success over so many years.

“You don’t get to be 150 years old and have some of the same clients that you’ve had for decades and decades without realizing that it is relationships that are going to get you to that place,” she said.

Nauman, Smith, Shissler & Hall is located at 200 N. 3rd St., 18th Floor, Harrisburg. For more information, visit www.nssh.com.

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Mayor as Manager: Who wants the hardest job in Harrisburg?

April 30, 2021 | by Lawrance Binda

Illustration by Rich Hauck.

What’s the toughest job in America?

From time to time, business publications come out with lists, often dominated by positions like health care worker, police officer and, well, I’ve even seen newspaper reporter make the cut.

My vote might go to another job that’s been called the “worst” in America: big city mayor. Now, here’s a job with high stress, endless problems, enormous customer dissatisfaction and constant personnel turnover—and that just scratches the surface.

With about 50,000 people, Harrisburg can’t be described as a “big” city. But, as I’ve said before in this space, it is almost a perfect microcosm of a larger city. It’s like Washington, D.C., shrunken down to (in candy bar terms) “fun size.”

Harrisburg has all the issues you find in a big city, only in miniature. It’s a business and nightlife center, but also has challenges that include everything from infrastructure to crime to poverty to development. Residents also reasonably expect decent service delivery—and will let you know if their trash isn’t picked up or their street isn’t plowed.

I bring this up because the city’s mayoral primary is this month. Five Democrats, including the incumbent, are on the ballot, as is one Republican.

I realize that people will choose their candidate for a variety of reasons. But, when I go to my polling station, I will vote for the person who I believe is best able, day in and day out, to do what I consider to be the hardest job in Harrisburg.

I think that people should have no illusions about this job. It’s not glamorous or glorious. It’s a grind. For a whopping $80,000 a year, you’re rewarded with seven-day workweeks and 12-hour workdays, constantly buried under a mountain of problems, pressures, complaints and frustrations.

Being mayor of Harrisburg is not about cutting ribbons, thinking great thoughts, making inspiring speeches or basking in adulation. First and foremost, it’s about stone-cold management.

Can you manage a 450-person workforce? Can you create and execute a $136 million budget? Can you oversee a dozen departments ranging from housing to public safety to IT?

As mayor, all of this falls on your shoulders. Do you have the skills, the energy, the patience? Can you do it competently, with at least a modicum of good humor? Can you handle the relentless, often cruel criticism from the public, the press, social media? Can you resist the lure of corruption?

To be honest, I don’t like Harrisburg’s “strong mayor” form of government. I think that the city would be better served if run by a professional city manager—someone educated and trained specifically to manage a municipality—under the direction and legislation of an elected city council.

Why do I think this?

As I state above, being mayor is largely a management job. Many elected mayors simply lack these skills. It may not be their fault, as they’ve never been trained to create budgets, manage staff and deliver services. A person can’t walk in off the street and instantly know how to run a complex organization with a $100-million-plus budget.

In addition, elected mayors are, by definition, politicians, and politicians do things for political reasons, which sometimes does not comport with the best interests of the public.

In Harrisburg, one need look no further than the 28-year tenure of former Mayor Steve Reed to see what can happen when a city government is overly politicized and mismanaged. A dozen years after Reed left office, Harrisburg is still trying to dig itself out of a financial hole.

But this is wishful thinking on my part.

Harrisburg has the form of government that it has, and I can’t change that. However, I can try to make people aware of what the “strong” mayor’s job actually is, how hard it is, and the deep skill set that it requires.

I should mention that I decided to write this column after witnessing several of the mayoral campaigns, which seem to be dominated by statements of lofty ideals and sweeping change.

In reality, a mayor has a very narrow window to foster change, given the grim realities of budget constraints, time constraints and competition among needs. A mayor may not be able to fundamentally change a city, but a good, honest, hard-working one can lead a well-run, well-managed government, setting the stage for reliable service delivery that helps to make the city a place where people want to live, visit and work. That’s the essence of the job.

So, when I cast my ballot this month, I won’t look to who has made the most inspiring speeches or promised to change the world. Instead, I will assess who has the intellect, the stamina and the competence to best manage the complex undertaking known as the city government of Harrisburg. And that’s the person I’ll vote for.

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

Illustration by Rich Hauck.

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Where Wurst Is Best: Josie’s German Café & Market turned a skeptic into a believer

April 30, 2021 | by Stephanie Kalina-Metzger

Jägerschnitze

Josie’s German Café & Market is a place that I’ve passed many times.

It’s easy to overlook. The humble yellow abode sits back off the street, its presence announced by a simple sign that appears to have been almost an afterthought.

I learned about the food they serve at Josie’s quite by accident by virtue of having some rare extra time on my hands while meandering around the Mechanicsburg area.

As I approached the door, I read a sign asking would-be diners to call ahead for seating. Fortunately, I was more curious than hungry, so went in to check out what seemed like an intriguing find.

Once inside, I browsed a selection of food merchandise, all of which hailed from Germany: coffee, vinegar, hot mustard, cookies, jarred red beets, mustard pickles, gherkins, canned herring, noodles, chocolates and more.

As I made my way into an adjacent room, the focal point was the deli case full of German specialties like bratwurst, weisswurst and liverwurst. Then there was the blood sausage and headcheese—neither of which I’m likely to try. For those unfamiliar with headcheese, it has been described as “meat jelly” from the head of a cow or pig and served in aspic. Not for me.

As I pondered these things, a friendly man emerged from the back and asked if he could help me with anything. So, I decided to satiate my curiosity about the restaurant, asking him if it was open.

“Yep, best German food in the area,” he claimed.

I learned later that Josie’s owners are Ashley Larew and Stephen Keslar and that the shop has been operating for over three decades, thanks to Josie Keslar, who was at the helm for many years.

Larew said that her husband worked with his mom at the shop since the tender age of 10.

“He’s carrying on her legacy now and uses all of her recipes,” said Larew. “Adding a restaurant to the shop was his idea.”

Larew describes her customers as coming from all walks of life, and she sees quite a few older, German customers. Operating a business during COVID is generally no small feat, but, according to Larew, it has been a positive experience for the couple.

“This has been one of our better years as new customers become more focused on small businesses,” she said. “So, it has worked out well for us.”

Welcomed

When I arrived home that day, I asked my husband (a Metzger) if he felt like indulging in a little German cuisine and, of course, he was game. The man has never met a brat he didn’t like—pronounced “brought” by the way, in case anyone gets any ideas.

We chose a table in the room adjacent to the deli, in the shadow of a picture of the famous Neuschwanstein castle. There, we perused the menu offerings, which included dishes like sauerbraten, goulash, rouladen, Bavarian pork roast, jägerschnitzel and a sausage plate comprised of bratwurst, weisswurst and knackwurst.

I was geared up to order the Bavarian pork roast—that is, until I was informed that they were out of the popular dish. That unexpected push carried me out of my comfort zone and into the jägerschnitzel, a dish described on the menu as “tender pork cutlet breaded and pan fried with a white wine cream sauce made with fresh mushrooms and served with spaetzle.”

My husband decided on a cubed beef dish braised with onions and spices, finished with red wine and served with spaetzle and red cabbage, known as Hungarian goulash.

Pretty soon, we heard pounding in the back as the schnitzel was being freshly made. About 15 minutes later, we were digging into our respective entrees.

The jägerschnitzel was delicious and a far cry from being bland, as I feared, and the spaetzle was reminiscent of the rivels I make for chicken corn soup, but lighter and flatter. Each one was coated with a rich, heavenly mushroom cream sauce that I won’t soon forget. The pork was tender and moist, and the breadcrumbs that covered the cutlets were light and crisp, not dissimilar to panko. My husband enjoyed the authentic goulash, which tasted of wine, onions and paprika.

I wished I could have kept eating, but, eventually, I gave up and took about a third of the generous dish home with me. If I had saved room, I would have been tempted by the variety of desserts like Black Forest cake, apple strudel, plum cake and peach torte.

Cara Bordner is another satisfied customer, a transplant from Michigan who now lives in New Cumberland and was once stationed in the army in Germany.

“My mom found the place and would stop in often and visit with Josie,” said Bordner.

She now visits with her son, whose favorite is the currywurst. She said that, over the years, she’s taken well-traveled guests to the eatery, and they’ve attested to the authenticity of the food. She also keeps returning for the rapport.

“If you are a repeat customer, they call you by name, and you always feel welcomed,” she said.

As for me, I’m glad I wandered off the beaten path to try something other than the pork roast. I am looking forward to returning, and I’ll be hard-pressed to have anything other than that delicious jägerschnitzel. That is, unless they are out of it, in which case I’m perfectly willing to be steered in another direction.

Josie’s German Café & Market is located at 5238 Trindle Rd., Mechanicsburg. For more information, visit www.germanfoodatjosies.com/market.

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Suds & Salsa: Zeroday Brewing Co. has a new flagship taproom, with Mexican fare on the menu

April 30, 2021 | by Stephanie Kalina-Metzger

Those who are familiar with the Appalachian Trail may know that hikers have a lingo all their own. I once met a thru-hiker who informed me that her trail name was cashmere. Why?

“Because I’m a sweater,” she said, with a laugh.

Zeroday is another word that is prominent among Appalachian Trail hikers. It means taking a break and embracing the idea of doing little or nothing. Theo Armstrong wants his newest taproom, located on the 900-block of N. 3rd Street in Harrisburg, to be just that—a respite for those who need a break from the hectic pace of everyday life.

“Come in, relax, have a great beverage,” he said. “That’s what we’re all about.”

And, to that, add some tacos, enchiladas, chips and homemade guacamole because the new location has a full-service, Mexican-inspired restaurant on site.

Feel at Home

Zeroday’s new taproom/restaurant marks the latest in its rapid expansion.

The brewery opened its first location in Midtown Harrisburg in the spring of 2015. The 5,000-square-foot space, located in back of Midtown Cinema, was divided between the brewery operations and a small taproom.

In 2017, Zeroday expanded for the first time, opening an “Outpost” inside the Broad Street Market in Harrisburg.

Then, early last year, Armstrong announced a major expansion. Zeroday would build a new brewery/restaurant on 3rd Street, near Forster Street. It also would open a second Outpost inside Midtown Cinema, along with a gourmet hot dog bar. For the trifecta, it would partner with the owners of ShakeDown BBQ for a restaurant/brewery concept in the new Susquehanna Union Green off of Linglestown Road.

Obviously, more beer would be needed, so the original taproom would be converted to production-only space.

Then the pandemic hit, and the best-laid plans came to a screeching halt—for a little while anyway.

“We started in February of 2020 and were forced to shut down construction for three months,” Armstrong said.

State-mandated restrictions further affected plans for the Midtown Cinema Outpost, which opened late last year, and, more importantly, for the taproom and eatery in Midtown.

In March, Zeroday’s new flagship location on 3rd Street finally debuted, with room for about 150 customers inside and another 60 to 70 in an outdoor courtyard, where a firepit and heaters will prolong the season when the weather again turns cooler.

The spacious and attractive interior—a product of the combined talents of Chris Dawson Architect, Best Space Design and Born Creative—features exposed brick, modern fireplaces and mixed seating. The bar fits about 25 and features a large, eye-catching Zeroday logo and two televisions, which display digital menus.

A separate section can be closed off for parties, receptions, karaoke and other gatherings. That room features a small-batch, three-barrel brewhouse, so customers can have an “immersive experience” watching the brewing process and even chatting with the brewers, Armstrong said.

Especially charming are separate areas where groups of friends can socialize on comfy chairs and couches.

“We want our place to be like a community living room, where people can feel at home,” Armstrong said.

A Buzz

Beth Taylor has worn many hats. Some may know her as the person who oversaw the Broad Street Market’s revitalization.

“That experience told me that I can do anything,” she said.

She now runs the onsite restaurant called “La Catrina Modern Mexican Kitchen at Zeroday Brewing Co.” It features scratch fare with selections like enchiladas, fajitas, ceviche, tacos, quesadillas, churros and tres leches cake, to name just a few.

“We think that the Mexican-inspired menu really complements Zeroday’s great craft beer,” said Taylor, who manages the kitchen on behalf of Harrisburg-based Nourish Hospitality Group.

Brew-wise, Zeroday continues its reputation for a diverse tap list, featuring numerous beer types, along with a few innovative experiments.

“We’re offering many different styles, from triple IPAs to lagers,” Armstrong said. “Sours are very popular right now.”

On tap, you’ll find such Zeroday stalwarts as the ever-popular “Mango Habanero,” a perfect fit for the new cuisine, as well as rotating selections and some one-and-done concoctions. The brewery recently released a strong ale called “COVID Ruined Our Birthday.” Believe it or not, it will remind you of birthday cake, with a kick.

If beer isn’t your thing, Zeroday has a license also to sell Pennsylvania wines and spirits.

“Pennsylvania is producing excellent wines these days,” Taylor said.

The spirits selection includes everything from bourbon to tequila to vodka, liquors that also fortify a new line of signature cocktails that include “Raspberry Gin Fizz” and “Maple Bourbon Ginger Splash.”

Armstrong and Taylor said that the new Zeroday is off to a great start, and the team is excited that they’ve created a buzz in the heart of Harrisburg.

“We are so happy to welcome everyone back and share a beer and a great meal,” Armstrong said.

Zeroday Brewing Co. is located at 925 N. 3rd St., Harrisburg. Zeroday also has “Outposts” in Midtown Cinema and at the Broad Street Market. For more information, visit www.zerodaybrewing.com.

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Dog Days of Spring: Time to enjoy the city—with your furry companion

April 30, 2021 | by Rachel Lindsley

Friends of Midtown Dog Park.

There’s no better way to socialize than with man’s best friend. So, when making weekend plans, naturally you look for activities where you can include your four-legged partner.

According to the Humane Society of Harrisburg Area, about 300 dogs were adopted and given a home in 2020. The pandemic pushed many dog-lovers to adopt a companion during the lonely months of quarantine.

“We were happy to see that the pandemic did not affect people’s willingness to adopt,” said Amanda Brunish, director of marketing and outreach at the Humane Society. “In fact, we saw an initial spike in adoptions at the beginning of 2020. We attribute this to people knowing they would be at home and have the time to commit to bringing a new pet, especially a dog, into the home.”

As more dogs fill the city, [new and old] pet owners are looking for ways to incorporate their furry friends into day-to-day life. Whether you’re a city dweller or a suburbanite, Harrisburg offers outdoor options for everyone to join in.

Sip & Slurp

Since the start of spring, outdoor seating on “Restaurant Row” has taken over the sidewalks downtown to encourage visitors to dine safely outside. Eateries such as Cork & Fork, Burger Yum, Federal Taphouse, Cafe Fresco, Stocks on 2nd and Arooga’s welcome leashed pets to experience the atmosphere of 2nd Street while their owners dine.

Near the state Capitol, several dining establishments, including Sammy’s Italian, Mangia Qui, Rubicon and Home 231, offer curbside seating for your furry guest. Don’t forget to feed your doggie, too. Some restaurants, including Sammy’s, offer off-the-menu “puppy bowls” or sliced grilled chicken à la carte.

Just across Forster Street, Sturges Speakeasy is known for greeting pets with a smile. From keeping a stack of water bowls nearby to making the outside deck easily accessible, this centrally located pub considers Fido to be a valued customer.

“We enjoy seeing our customers bring along their pets when visiting us,” said owner Adam Sturges. “We have a crew of regulars who like to bring their dogs when the weather gets nice, and we have a few items on the menu that they can enjoy, such as ice cream and whipped cream.”

Be sure to check the hours of business online or call to make a reservation as many restaurant hours have changed due to COVID-19.

Several local breweries also welcome pets for bites and brews, including Zeroday Brewing Co., which has a special doggy entrance.

“Our new taproom located on 3rd Street offers a comfortable outside patio for dog owners to enjoy with their pals,” said Jess Moody, operations manager at Zeroday. “We even have a special entrance in the back of the building for dogs to walk through. As they enter, they will find cold water dishes for thirsty pups.”

For humans, Zeroday even offers a pooch-inspired hefeweizen called “When Did We Get A Dog?” Other local breweries such as the Millworks and the Vegetable Hunter welcome dogs to sit outside while their owners sip and sample from their beverage menus.

Trails & Treats

Harrisburg’s first dog park, Friends of Midtown Community Dog Park, is an off-leash playground where pups can roam free in an enclosed space and meet other neighbors. Located on Granite Street, this dog park is open every day of the week from dawn until dusk and has small and large dog play areas. Visit their Facebook page for COVID-19 regulations.

If you don’t have time for the dog park, any outdoor trail will do. Take a stroll on Front Street through Harrisburg’s Sunken Gardens and Riverfront Park. With a nice breeze from the Susquehanna River, this path provides great exercise for you and your pup.

For a quieter scene, travel across the walking bridge to City Island. There, patrons can walk the one-mile loop while taking in the views of the city skyline and the island’s attractions.

In Midtown, the Broad Street Market welcomes friendly pups onto its courtyard to socialize. Inside, you’ll find Doggie Delights, a gourmet dog treats store selling flavored treats, doggie chews and ice cream—all made from natural ingredients.

“This spring, we will be selling our fresh goat’s milk ice cream,” said owner Donnie Farner. “Our Colby Cups come in several flavors, including blueberry, peanut butter and maple bacon. This is the perfect treat to cool down your pup while still offering nutritional benefits.”

Brunish, of the Humane Society, recommends having treats available as you walk your pooch through city streets to reward them for good behavior.

“Check out our online resource library for great tips on life with your dog,” she said.

With sunny days ahead, there is no need to leave your pup at home or travel outside the city for dog-friendly fun. Harrisburg welcomes your canines as members of the community and encourages you to enjoy the city together as a (furry) family.

For more information on the Friends of Midtown Community Dog Park, visit their Facebook page.

Looking to support the Humane Society of Harrisburg Area? Participate virtually in their GLOW 5K Run/Walk from June 6 to 12. To learn more, visit www.humanesocietyhbg.org.

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Mom in Mind: Rosemary suggests a springtime pasta dish, perfect for Mother’s Day

April 30, 2021 | by Rosemary Ruggieri Baer

In May 2012, on a lovely, warm afternoon in Assisi, Italy, the friends with whom we were traveling took us for “lunch” at a hillside restaurant called Metastasio.

I’ve never preferred eating a big meal with wine in the afternoon, but our friends love it and claim it’s an Italian “thing.” We sat on an open deck that overlooked the green hills of Umbria. Only the church bells from the little town of Assisi broke the silence.

I have always remembered what I ate that day and have been thinking that it would be lovely for a Mother’s Day brunch. Pasta with salmon and asparagus in a light cream sauce offers a nice change from the usual egg strata, quiche and frittata. The only accompaniment needed is a fresh fruit salad and chilled peach bellinis or orange mimosas to drink. Pasta for brunch? Why not?

Italian cookbooks contain many versions of pasta with “salmone.” Some call for smoked salmon instead of fresh, peas rather than asparagus, and others for a “spike” of lemon rather than the tomato in Giuliano Hazan’s recipe below. Hazan calls for penne, but you could use a string pasta like linguine or even cheese tortellini. This dish is fun to experiment with. Mom will love it.

Pasta with Asparagus and Salmon (Penne agli Asparagi e Salmone)

Ingredients

8 ounces fresh asparagus
½ medium onion (sweet onions are best)
2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
¾ pound (12 ounces) fresh ripe tomatoes (plum tomatoes are a good choice as they have less liquid)
1 pound of pasta (choose shape to your liking)
1/3 cup heavy cream
½ pound (8 ounces) fresh, skinless salmon or smoked salmon, if you prefer
Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

Fill a wide sauté pan with water, place over high heat, and bring to a boil.
Cut off the woody bottom portion of the asparagus spears and peel the remaining bottom third. Add 1 teaspoon of salt to the boiling water, and slide in the asparagus. Cook until tender, 5 to 6 minutes. Then lift them out and set aside. (Watch carefully and don’t allow the spears to get mushy.)
While the asparagus are cooking, finely chop the onion and put it in a large skillet with the olive oil over medium-high heat. Sauté until golden, about 5 minutes.
Cut the asparagus into ¾-inch lengths, add to the onion, and sauté for another 5 minutes.
Bring a large pot of salted water to boil for the pasta. Cook until al dente.
Peel the tomatoes and coarsely chop them. Add to the asparagus/onion mixture and cook until all the liquid is gone.
Add the cream to the onion/asparagus/tomato sauce and cook for 1-2 minutes until it thickens a little. Cut the salmon or smoked salmon into strips and add to the pan with salt and pepper to taste. Cook for another 2 to 3 minutes.
When the pasta is done, drain it and toss it with the sauce and serve.

A few cooking notes:

If you are using smoked salmon, a little chopped fresh dill added at the end is very good.
Frozen baby peas are a great alternative to the asparagus. The dish is still very “spring-like.”
Save a little of the pasta cooking water if you need to thin the sauce.
You can eliminate the tomatoes if you prefer. The dish will still be good.

Many Harrisburg-area restaurants will be serving brunch on Mother’s Day. Mangia Qui, Note and Home 231 are some of my favorites (especially their Bloody Mary’s!). But if you are looking to treat Mom at home, pasta with salmon is a lovely choice for brunch or an early dinner on the patio, even without a view of the Umbrian countryside.

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