What’s the Story?: Central PA authors share advice for all you aspiring novelists

February 26, 2021 | by Lawrance Binda

During our year of pandemic, many people, it seems, have turned to writing during their long days at home.

Here at TheBurg, we’ve never before received so many pitches about new books and authors.

Therefore, we decided to ask a few local novelists about their craft and process. All of these writers recently have had books published, so their words are especially timely.

If this story piques your interest, please consider buying and reading their novels. You will get a good read, I’m sure, but also will help support the local writing community here in central PA.

Author: Joel Burcat
Location: Harrisburg
Recent Novel: “Amid Rage,” published February 2021
Website: www.JoelBurcat.com

Describe what you write about and why you write about that subject area.

I write environmental legal thrillers because I know about environmental and legal issues, and I care about the environment. I have also written about many other subjects because they interest me. Mostly, I write to describe people who make a difference and issues that matter.

Tell us how you generate ideas for your novels.

Some of my ideas come from my 40 years of experience as an environmental lawyer. I try to read a wide variety of news stories, and some ideas are “ripped from the headlines” as the cliché goes. Other ideas come from my observations, fears and concerns in life

Give us some insight into your writing process.

I start writing by around 8 a.m., six days a week, and write until lunchtime (whenever it is that I get hungry). Sometimes, I write an outline, but most often I do not. I devote the afternoon to the “business of books.” As I write, there are things I want to write and things I must write. Often, I will let my characters dictate their words (truth). I will also try to imagine a scene (e.g. a country bar) and picture what and who is there. What is the bartender like? What is on the walls? How does it smell? I’ll write down what I imagine. Often, I will dictate a chapter using Dragon dictation software.

What advice would you give to an aspiring novelist?

Two things must be at the top of your to-do list:

Read. It is one of the best pieces of advice I can give. Reading a good book is a master class in writing. Reading a not-so-good book is also a lesson in writing. I read in a four-book cycle. (1) A book by a debut author or new author. (2) A book by a tried-and-true thriller writer. (3) Non-fiction. (4) Whatever the hell I want to read. Then I start over.

Write. This is also advice given by every writer, and it is true. I’ve met quite a few aspiring writers who have confessed they are ashamed of their first drafts, so they hesitate to put their words onto paper. The great writer and teacher Anne Lamott in “Bird By Bird” (a terrific writing book) said:

“Almost all good writing begins with terrible first efforts. You need to start somewhere. Start by getting something—anything—down on paper.”

Just write, people.

Author: Don Helin
Location: Lancaster
Recent Novel: “Missing,” published September 2020
Website: www.donhelin.com

Describe what you write about and why you write about that subject area.

I enjoy reading thrillers, so when I began to write novels, I chose thrillers. With a career in the army and three tours (almost 10 years) in the Pentagon, writing political/military thrillers seemed a natural. My hero is an army colonel who works for the president’s national security advisor. My military background helped me develop realistic plot lines and characters.

Tell us how you generate ideas for your novels.

Ideas are all around us. My first novel is about white supremacists in central Pennsylvania. This is a reality in the rural county where I lived, so I began to research white supremacist groups and decided that was an interesting topic for a thriller.

I’ve always enjoyed traveling to Gettysburg and, on one trip, took a ghost tour. That seemed interesting, so it became the basis for “Devil’s Den.” Once I decide on the topic, I begin research to make sure I can find relevant material.

Give us some insight into your writing process.

I usually begin by developing a premise for the novel. Many of my friends develop an outline, but I’d rather spend time developing the story itself. Once in awhile, I need to go back, but normally I keep moving forward.

I usually develop at least two plot lines so I can switch back and forth between them. When my hero gets in trouble in one plot line, I can switch to another. For example, in “Missing,” I had four plot lines: a high school reunion, a presidential election, abuse in memory units and artificial intelligence. These four plot lines were a lot to research, but I believe the result is more interesting.

What advice would you give to an aspiring novelist?

First: You never get a second chance to make a good first impression. Check and recheck your work before you send it to your publisher.

Second: Writing is an art, but publishing is a business. A novelist must learn how to write a quality novel. The successful novelist must then understand how to work with a publisher to improve and market the novel. If your first novel doesn’t sell, the chances of a second novel being published are slim.

Author: Maria V. Snyder
Location: Elizabethtown
Recent Novel: “The Eyes of Tamburah,” published February 2021
Website: www.MariaVSnyder.com

Describe what you write about and why you write about that subject area.

I write mostly fantasy and science fiction for young adults and adults. These two genres appeal to me because my stories don’t have to be limited by real life. My characters can use magic or travel throughout the galaxy as they overcome the various obstacles—both real and fantastical—to achieve their goals. It’s a great deal of fun.

Tell us how you generate ideas for your novels.

I love to travel, and I frequently spark on story ideas while I’m visiting other countries. For example, “The Eyes of Tamburah” is a fantasy set in a desert world that is so hot on the surface the inhabitants have to live in vast underground cities. Where water—not money—equals power. That was inspired by my trip to the Australian Outback. “For Navigating the Stars,” I sparked on the idea of the discovery that Terracotta Warriors had been buried on other planets when I was in China. Terracotta Warriors in space! How could I not write that?

Give us some insight into your writing process.

When I get an idea for a novel, I immediately think about the characters. To me, they are the most important part of a story. Without them, there is no story. I formulate a general idea of their goals and obstacles and begin writing. I don’t outline, but rather discover the story as I go and often am surprised by my characters’ actions. I love it when that happens!

What advice would you give to an aspiring novelist?

Persistence! It’s key for all aspects of writing. You need it to finish a novel, for all the rounds of editing, for finding an agent and publisher, and for marketing and promotion. Even if you publish your book independently, you need persistence to produce the best book possible and to do all the hard work to reach readers. I also teach in Seton Hill University’s MFA program and have plenty more advice about writing and publishing that can be found on my website for free. Here’s a link: www.mariavsnyder.com/advice.php.

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Signs of the Times: Marty Mummert creates hand-painted signs the old-fashioned way—one at a time

February 26, 2021 | by Karen Hendricks

Back in the ‘80s, Marty Mummert took a string of odd jobs, including a position with a sign company.

“They said everything was going digital, and I said, ‘That can’t happen—I gotta learn how to hand paint signs,” he said.

Mummert, who had recently come out of the Air Force, took up a new calling. He felt like it was his duty to preserve the time-honored, hand-lettered craft of sign making.

His first hand-painted sign, created on plywood, was for a shop in Newport News, Va.

And so it began—Mummert worked at the sign company, which was turning digital, during the day, while he continued plying his old-fashioned, hand-painted trade on the side, after hours.

“I think I’m an old soul—I really do,” Mummert said. “I look at how things were—and I might be stepping on toes—but we just accept stuff today. I mean, is there any character or creativity left?”

To the Letter

Sign making was a side hustle for many years. Mummert bounced between jobs with Coca-Cola, a potato chip company and truck driving. Sign making added to his colorful resume.

Every Marty Mummert sign was and is an original that begins with a pencil sketch, measurements and dimensions calculated meticulously. He calls the process “pencil to paint.” The finished product comes to life with vibrant, oil-based paint, a sign painter’s brand called “One Shot Paint.”

By 1996, Mummert went full-time and launched Marty Mummert Studio from his East Berlin, Adams County home. By 2014, he opened a storefront—Marty Mummert Sign Company—along Baltimore Street in downtown Gettysburg.

One of his first big breaks came during a trade show in Atlanta.

“A buyer from Spain gave me his business card—it said Anthropologie. I didn’t even know what Anthropologie was, but he called the next week and asked if I could handle several thousand rusted metal signs—2,600 for all their stores. That was pretty flattering,” said Mummert.

That was followed by signs for Bubba Gump Shrimp Company, Cracker Barrel, an episode of “Unwrapped” with the Food Network and Disney movie “Invincible.”

Mummert talks about it all with an “aw, shucks” attitude.

“Oh yeah, I got to do couple jobs for Starbucks, too. I’m pretty much flattered when anyone wants a sign, whether it’s someone from Hollywood or someone who walks in my shop,” Mummert said. “I guess I’m finally doing what I’m supposed to be doing.”

Today, at the age of 61, he’s painted hundreds of projects for clients around the globe. Marty Mummert signs hang in national and international businesses, as well as small businesses along Main Streets throughout America. His artwork has appeared on television, in movies and music videos, on pickup trucks, barns and murals.

Historic Home Base

How fitting is it that Mummert’s shop is located in one of America’s most famous historic towns, Gettysburg?

His handiwork paints the town—no small feat for a town as historically correct as Gettysburg.

“Signs in Gettysburg have always been viewed as a significant contributor to a positive experience, either walking or driving through the historic town,” said Gary Shaffer, of Gettysburg’s Historic Architectural Review Board (HARB). “For many years, HARB has championed unique and especially well-crafted signs—they need not be historic in design, but thoughtful and artful. The streetscapes in Gettysburg have been enriched in the last several years by the careful, creative designs of Marty Mummert.”

Numerous businesses located in the heart of Gettysburg, directly on Lincoln Square, feature Mummert’s hand-painted designs—including The Pub & Restaurant owned by Lisa Grim.

“It’s hard to find craftsmen like Marty any more—it’s a dying breed, sadly. He breathes life back into authenticity and craftsmanship,” Grim said.

Mummert is well liked among Gettysburg shop owners, and the feeling is mutual.

“Gettysburg has received me pretty darn well,” he said.

As you can probably tell, it’s not just Mummert’s talent that customers enjoy—it’s also his personality.

One of Mummert’s recent, larger projects involved hand-lettering “The Barrel House” directly on the third-story bricks of the downtown Chambersburg landmark and venue.

“Marty is an inspirational artist… he is so kind,” said Dr. Joshua Dunklebarger, who owns The Barrel House. He described Mummert’s work as “timeless.”

In the Driver’s Seat

One of Mummert’s biggest projects was for Okoboji Classic Cars—a car museum in Iowa.

“It was a 22-hour drive, and I went out for three weeks at a time, then came home for two weeks at a time,” Mummert said. “It’s built like a downtown, with all the signs painted by hand. That was probably one of the most memorable projects.”

How does the saying go? If you love what you do, you’ll never work a day in your life?

“The very fact that I do it by hand makes it fun,” Mummert said. “I go home every day with a smile on my face.”

Like his signs, he’s a classic, full of character.

“I’m just flattered that you’re writing a story about me,” said Mummert. “I don’t know who will read this.”

Marty Mummert Sign Company is located at 137 Baltimore St., Gettysburg. For more information, see martymummertstudio.com.

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Pandemic Perspectives: Four Burg writers share insights on the one-year anniversary of the COVID-19 pandemic

February 26, 2021 | by Karen Hendricks, M. Diane McCormick, Susan Ryder and Gina Napoli

Pre-pandemic, four Burg writers regularly met for lunch at the Broad Street Market.
From left: Susan Ryder, Diane McCormick, Gina Napoli and Karen Hendricks.

Friday, March 13 is the date that many people pinpoint as “the day” that the pandemic started affecting their lives. It was that afternoon that Gov. Tom Wolf announced the first lockdown that would change every aspect of our lives—our jobs, schools, businesses and everyday habits.

Friday, March 13 was also the date that four writers for TheBurg gathered at the Broad Street Market for lunch. “Coronavirus” was the hot topic at lunch that day, but little did they know how far-reaching the pandemic’s impact would be upon the rest of the entire year—impacting their personal lives and professional work as writers.

Little Did We Know

By Karen Hendricks

They say that birds of a feather flock together. As four writers, the main reason we started gathering for an occasional lunch was to combat the otherwise lonely existence that freelance writing can be. Which is pretty ironic, because as we gathered on March 13, 2020, little did we know our idea of “lonely” was about to be redefined.

Leading up to that Friday the 13th, I was the one who sounded the alarm and suggested (gasp) that we cancel. Call me cautious or cynical, I was tuned into the national and international news reports describing the impending “coronavirus” as much more serious than the goofy memes featuring bottles of Corona (remember those?). I feared the worst, but, in true peer pressure fashion, my three fellow writers assured me we’d all be just fine—and I caved.

I remember our conversation alternating between laughs (there are always laughs), congrats (they were genuinely happy for my debut of TheBurg Podcast just the day before), and our doubts and fears about what was to come. The Broad Street Market was like a ghost town compared to the typical friendly Fri-yay atmosphere. Little did we know, it would be the last “normal” day of operations.

I remember how shockingly quiet our communities were, those first few weeks of lockdown. No traffic. It felt eerie—too quiet—even for someone used to working solo, from home, most of the time.

As journalists, we’re trained to ask questions, be curious and observant, and then explain what we’ve gleaned through our writing. I tried to describe the strange times we were living in, through several Burg Blogs, as well as my personal journal. But honestly, I stopped journaling for weeks at a time. The pandemic, layered with politics, then racism and hate, became too overwhelmingly painful. I didn’t want to capture those memories—I wanted to release and forget them.

Journalism became an outlet, and I focused on writing others’ stories—inspiring distillers-turned-hand sanitizer producers, food bank directors, runners and teachers. Amid a pandemic, I couldn’t cover news on the frontline, so phone and Zoom interviews became my lifeline.

Instead of beginning conversations with the usual, “How are you?” I learned from a pandemic-pivoting journalism webinar to add one more empathetic word to that sentence.

“How are you coping?” became my first question, because it acknowledged that we were all dealing with “stuff,” and it set the tone for honest, real conversations.

I tried to capture the spirit I heard in those early voices, as they described innovative, can-do resilience.

One of the joys of being a writer is learning something new every day, but by the summer, I began to resent some of the things I was learning. Because I also had to capture the hurt I heard in those voices. Little did we know how long, how hard, how ugly, how deadly this pandemic would be.

But lately, the tone across the phone lines has shifted. And I love what I’m hearing, because now, in 2021, I’m hearing a lot of hope.

On Dreams Deferred

By M. Diane McCormick

I was the one who suggested we cough when Karen, the COVID-19 scaredy-cat, arrived.

Some joke. Please forgive me. How could we know? We did normal things that day. Karen and I split a pizza. We four laughed over a lingering lunch.

But in my memory, the Broad Street Market already felt hollow. One vendor pointed to the burners on her stove, cold from lack of business.

At home that afternoon, I heard that Gov. Wolf was closing schools for two weeks. But my granddaughter was starring in her school musical! Postponed now, but not for long, I assured her. The show does go on.

Except that it hasn’t. Poor kid is still waiting in the wings. So is my singer-songwriter stepdaughter, verging on a career breakthrough. And my nephew, ready to transform from minor leaguer to Houston Astro.

Dreams put on hold really burn me up, but there was no escaping them. From that day on, every assignment started with, “Diane, can you write a story about the impact of COVID on . . .?” Fill in the blank. Animal rescues, restaurants, the holidays, fall getaways, the arts (two of those).

And that was just for TheBurg. I wrote so many “how we’re dealing with this” stories that I called myself “The COVID Whisperer.”

Then came the gut punch, a story for TheBurg on the pandemic in Harrisburg’s Black community. Learning about the departed greats of our city, I felt a new anger—resentment over talent lost and wisdom wasted. Gerald Welch, the school board member who never let a child fall through the cracks. Lisa Burhannan, the tireless advocate for girls, re-entrants, crime survivors, and anyone else who needed a friend.

They should still be here, transforming lives. I fumed, until I heard hope and gratitude in the voices of grieving friends and family. They rediscovered purpose. They rediscovered the core values somehow lost in the pre-pandemic grind.

That message, I realized, was woven through all my COVID-year writings.

“All those dreams we’ve had locked up,” the Rev. Brenda Alton told me. “It’s time to work on them and release them.”

So, dreams. Get off the “someday” list and take flight. Bring back a life of health and happy gatherings. And make sure that my assignments from here on start with, “Diane, can you write a story about the impact of recovery on . . .?” Fill in the blank. Hit me. I’m ready to be “The Post-COVID Whisperer.”

A Unique Time

By Susan Ryder

Our traditional Friday the 13th gathering felt a bit clandestine. Should we be meeting due to the rising concern of the coronavirus? Karen Hendricks expressed some concern, and I told her I thought we’d be “fine,” and pushed away the thought that we could be taking a chance.

A pall hung over this usually light and happy Broad Street Market lunch. Normally, there would be hugs all around, but social distancing had just arrived in our reality. As typical, we chatted about our stories and what was in the works. I was working that day too, on a piece about how COVID-19 was affecting business there.

This excerpt from my story, published online March 13, summed up market that day:

“Bits of conversation about the coronavirus rose above the banter, as people purchased produce, waited to order fish at Tep’s Fresh Seafood, and greeted friends.”

I talked with a few patrons. One older gentleman, who used the market as his office, told me that he wasn’t going to live in fear. Another woman expressed concern about how this would impact local businesses.

Based on what was happening in Europe, I was quite anxious about how America would weather corona. For a minute, I thought this could be a rallying point for a conflicted country—that we could gather around a common enemy, COVID-19. That pipe dream lasted until Monday afternoon, when we locked down.

Then the vitriol around the virus swirled. People were scared, uncertain and overwhelmed, but instead of uniting, we argued via social media about whether it was real. That crushed me more than the threat of the virus.

However, like many folks, I received comfort and encouragement from my neighborhood! Early in the lockdown, I walked past the bay window of my bi-level home and saw something that made me burst into laughter. My neighbors had placed a paper hangman word game in their front window. For the next few days, we sent letter guesses, written on recycled printer paper, in an attempt to decipher the message—“Flatten the curve.”

Neighbors sewed and distributed masks, shared toilet paper, inquired about needs at the grocery store, delivered baked goods and books. In a small attempt to do my part, I hacked my potted palm tree on Palm Sunday and gave palms to my neighbors.

Journalistically, it’s been a unique time. I covered stories such as how COVID changed how we mourn, a personal story as my father-in-law died in June. And since racism’s ugliness once again let itself be known in a dramatic way, I felt compelled to shine a light on white supremacy, even as the fatigue of COVID weighed down the world.

How does a person sum up a year? With the most vivid memories. What I remember most are the good and kind things that arose from the chaos.

I look forward to the next time this writing quartet meets—enjoying spanikopita at Phyllo, and sharing not only stories but hugs all around.

On Grieving During COVID-19

By Gina Napoli

In my usual “denial style,” the pandemic gravity had not hit me by March 13, 2020. Back then, the CDC proclaimed COVID-19 a “once-and-done” disease. My immediate family felt certain the virus had already ripped through our household in December 2019. We complied with Gov. Wolf’s fluctuating rules to avoid becoming carriers, but like Alfred E. Neuman of MAD Magazine, we weren’t worried.

Then at the end of March, my 29-year-old cousin died. (At the time, it wasn’t deemed COVID-related, but now the CDC hints otherwise.) As I shoehorned my fat rolls into my black funeral dress, I wondered how to get through an Italian funeral for one of our youngest without anyone hugging me. I resolved to knuckle-bump, rub elbows and head-nod across the cemetery.

My resolve lasted 20 minutes. Even with limited attendance of just our big family and no friends, the Napoli’s turned a burial into a potential super-spreader event. What should have been a well-attended, four-part viewing + visitation + burial + face-stuffing event with affection everywhere devolved into a pared-down substitute. I realized then how much solace the familiar string of rituals provided. COVID-19 cheated my cousin out of the farewell party she deserved.

“Flattening the curve” was supposed to end when March did. Except it didn’t. My usual beat of writing theater reviews and offbeat local attractions went pffft. My articles awaiting publication were either postponed or killed, so it didn’t make sense to seek out new ideas. I grieved my personal change—the professional fulfillment I once felt from my freelance writing career.

Throughout 2020, several high school classmates’ parents passed away—moms and dads who had once served as my honorary parents. I would have ordinarily paid my respects in person, but every family either had private funeral arrangements or waived them altogether. Again, cheated by COVID-19.

Then my 95-year-old grandfather died New Year’s Day. In addition to the same crowd from March, several romantic indiscretions by the guest of honor yielded extra half-families around the casket. Not that this happens to me much (but it will probably, thanks to ancestry.com and an uncle who won’t quit swabbing us), but normally, when you meet new, long-lost family, there is an initial awkward moment spent stumbling over the handshake/hug decision. COVID made the decision for us to limit our interactions to a wave—way over there.

Graveside, supply chain issues (or scandal?) affected the availability of Catholic priests, so a Southern Baptist minister showed up instead. I never saw more side-eyes than when we heard his drawl. Then, when my great-aunt died less than a week later, similar protocol omissions followed: fabric chairs, guest-books, prayer cards.

My family already resembles the “Goodfellas” cast, so masks added an extra criminal-like element… symbolically apropos, because COVID-19 has robbed 2020 of normal grieving rituals. This loss is something to mourn all by itself.

From coverage of social justice issues to pivots in theater performances, attempts to interview booked-up mental health professionals and overworked teachers: What interviews, behind-the-scenes stories, facts and observations stand out from these writers’ pandemic assignments? These four writers continue the conversation on TheBurg Podcast’s March episode, available on Friday, March 12.

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March Editor’s Note

February 26, 2021 | by Lawrance Binda

A year ago, in mid-March, our printing company called and asked me what we planned to do.

The pandemic had just hit, everything was shutting down and, apparently, many of their publishing customers were pulling their orders.

“We’re not cancelling,” I said. “We will have an April issue.”

I wasn’t exactly sure what that would look like. Within just two days of the state-mandated lockdown, our business dried up as most advertisers cancelled, and many of our distribution locations closed, as well.

But we forged ahead. In such uncertain times, I felt that people needed a degree of normalcy in their lives, even if that was just the next regular issue of TheBurg. If we had to eat our costs, so be it.

A year later, I feel the same.

The past year has been difficult, exhausting, marked by one turbulent event and then another. So, there’s something to be said for regularity and routine.

Yes, we’ve had our share of topical features, many stories about COVID, about Black Lives Matter and about the shutdown and protests, all with local angles. But we also never stopped our regular coverage—pieces about local businesses, restaurants, nonprofits, the arts, etc.

Some people, I’ve been told, read TheBurg cover to cover each month. But others head straight for their favorites, such as Rosemary’s food column, our listing of property sales or even, I’m always surprised to hear, my monthly “City View” piece. And, apparently, the crossword puzzle and Sudoku have many fans, at least judging from the calls I received the time we goofed and published the wrong answer key.

I hope that, throughout this crazy year, we’ve been able to provide an element of normalcy in very abnormal times. And, as the year progresses, I’m optimistic that we’ll gradually return to our full-on, boring old routine: a magazine thick with stories, events and ads—and with full distribution.

A year ago, “ordinary” was taken away from us. Looking at the rest of 2021, our primary goal is to get it back.

Lawrance Binda

Co-Publisher/Editor-in-Chief

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History, Streamed: Sankofa, Gamut join forces to highlight figures of Harrisburg’s past

February 26, 2021 | by Barbara Trainin Blank

Lyeneal Griffin as Joseph Bustill. Photos by John Bivins.

History is reflected not just through events but through people. Sometimes, these people are overlooked heroes right in your own community.

In Harrisburg, they include such figures as abolitionist William Howard Day, poet Alice Moore Dunbar-Nelson and political activist Maude Coleman. And now you can get to know them through the efforts of Sankofa African American Theatre Co. and Gamut Theatre Group.

A program entitled “Do You Know Me?” connects audiences to Harrisburg’s rich African American history—abolitionists and civil rights activists who struggled to end slavery, secure the vote, and challenge ongoing segregation.

In February, the program was presented to high school students in honor of Black History Month and, this month, it will be streamed for general audiences.

Sankofa and Gamut have, for a number of years, partnered in a live program that celebrates Black history. This year, because of the COVID-19 pandemic, the program had to go virtual—also known as a “digital performance episode”—developed by Sharia Benn, Sankofa’s executive artistic director.

This digital performance features local student talent as well as professional artists who are capable of breathing life into poetry, interviews, speeches and letters. These written records highlight the words of influential local and national African American leaders.

“By sharing this truthful knowledge of culture, history, and identity, we gain a better understanding of the past so we can be better agents for social change in the future,” Benn said.

Highmark Blue Shield and Dauphin County are co-sponsoring the performance.

Commission Chair Jeff Haste stated that Dauphin County has made Black History Month a priority by supporting events for nearly a decade.

“The Dauphin County commissioners are honored to continue this vital program to celebrate Black history,” Haste said. “We believe it is essential to offer the citizens of Dauphin County chances to learn more about local history, the fascinating people who lived here and their incredible stories.”

Nicholson and Benn co-directed the program, and students performed live monologues filmed on the Gamut stage, with Zoom performances and discussions. Featured are students Jade Jarrell and Najuma Norman, both of Capital Area School of the Arts, and Lunden McClain of Central Dauphin East.

“I have really enjoyed working with these strong young ladies,” Nicholson said. “I am ecstatic that we can continue this program virtually and continue in our mission to share these important stories.”

The program has focused principally on the 8th Ward, where many African American residents in Harrisburg resided, a neighborhood razed a century ago to expand the Capitol complex. It is multifaceted—encompassing artistic, historical and educational components, explained Nicholson.

According to Benn, “Do You Know Me?” bridges the gap between knowledge and meaningful action as students travel along the path to accountable and equitable citizenship.

“Recent racial and social injustices have fueled young people in our community with a desire to be social change agents,” she said.

“Do You Know Me?” will be offered as a digital performance for two special viewings on Sunday, March 14, at 4 p.m., and Monday, March 29, at 7 p.m. Tickets for the public performances are available for the community engagement price of $10 and may be purchased at GamutTheatre.org.

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Happenings: Our March Calendar of Events

February 26, 2021 | by Missy Smith

Museum & Art Spaces

AACA Museum
161 Museum Dr., Hershey
717-566-7100; aacamuseum.org

“Look . . . They Gave Me a Map,” an exhibit examining the enduring appeal of free road maps, through April 23

“Minibike Mania,” a display of more than two dozen miniature motorbikes, through April 23

“Yeah, It’s Got a Hemi!” an exhibit focused on Hemi engines, through April 23

“Yes, We Drive These Cars!” is an exhibit of The Horseless Carriage Club of America, with three display cars, early signage and artifacts, and video of the cards on tour, through April 23

Art Association of Harrisburg
21 N. Front St., Harrisburg
717-236-1432; artassocofhbg.com

“Figuratively Speaking,” annual juried membership show, celebrating the human form, with an added theme this year of coronavirus lock-down/quarantine experience, through April 1

Carlisle Arts Learning Center (CALC)
38 W. Pomfret St., Carlisle
717-249-6973; carlislearts.org

“I REaD it somewhere,” CALC’s Annual Members’ Exhibit, through March 6

“Annual Student Show: Honoring Seniors 2021,” March 18-April 10

Hershey Area Art Association (HAAA)
hersheyart.org

Local art display through March 27 at Hershey Public Library’s Hallway Art Gallery

Works by HAAA artists Mona Frey and Carolyn Alfano, through March 31 at Backstage Café’ Art Gallery (at Allen Theatre)

The Millworks
340 Verbeke St.; Harrisburg
717-695-4888; millworksharrisburg.com

Works by Amie Bantz, Tina Berrier, Pamela Black, Tristan Bond and Tara Chickey, March 2-April 11

Pennsylvania National Fire Museum
1820 N. 4th St., Harrisburg
717-232-8915; pnfm.org

Exhibits dedicated to Pennsylvania firefighting history

Perry County Council of the Arts
PCCA Gallery, 1 S. 2nd St., Newport
717-567-7023; perrycountyarts.org

“On and Off the Grid,” abstract paintings in grid style by Thom Kulp, inspired by the work of Agnes Martin and serving as metaphors for restrictions people have faced during the covid-19 pandemic, through April 10

Rose Lehrman Art Gallery
One HACC Dr., Harrisburg
717-780-2435; hacc.edu

Virtual exhibition of Graphic Design Works by Craig Welsh, through March 18; Zoom lecture: March 18, 5:30 p.m.

Susquehanna Art Museum
1401 N. 3rd St., Harrisburg
717-233-8668; susquehannaartmuseum.org

“Once A Future Kingdom,” sculptured materials and imagined relics by Anthony Cervino, through March 14

“Sun + Light,” a collection of works from the series “Everyone Loves the Sunshine” by contemporary artist Charles Edward Williams that highlight his own personal encounters with the Civil Rights movement of the 1960s,” through April 11

“Meanderings,” a collection of collagraphic prints by artist Valerie Dillon, through April 25

“Persephone/Persephone,” a multi-panel collaborative installation by Elody Gyekis and Joanne Landis, through June 20

“Project Pattern” multimedia display of photography, painting, sculpture and installation by artists Nate Ethier, Nicole Herbert, and Luke Murphy, through August

Suzanne H. Arnold Art Gallery
Lebanon Valley College
101 College Ave., Annville
717-233-8668; lvc.edu/gallery

“Danny Lyons—Memories of the Southern Civil Rights Movement,” through March 22

Read, Make, Learn

Carlisle Arts Learning Center (CALC)
38 W. Pomfret St., Carlisle
717-249-6973; carlislearts.org

March 9: Metal Jewelry—Riveting & Texture, 6-8 p.m.
March 17: Experimental Mixed Media 1-Day Workshop, 10 a.m.-1 p.m.
March 17: Suicide Loss Survivors Creating Together, 5:30-7 p.m.
March 30: Jeweler’s Saw—Tips & Tricks, 6-8 p.m.

Dauphin County Library System
dcls.org

March 1, 8, 15, 22: Virtual Anime Club, 4 p.m.
March 1, 8, 22: Born to Read (birth-18 months), 9:30 a.m.
March 2, 9, 16, 23: Animal Crossing with The Library, 3:30 p.m.
March 2, 9, 16, 23: Virtual Family Storytime, 6 p.m.
March 3, 10, 17, 24: Virtual Toddler Storytime, 10 a.m.
March 3, 10, 17, 24: Virtual Create Lab, 4 p.m.
March 3, 10, 17, 24: Young Adult Book Club on Zoom, 4 p.m.
March 5, 12, 19, 26: Preschool Storytime on Zoom, 10 a.m.
March 5, 12, 19, 26: Dungeons and Dragons on Zoom, 4 p.m.
March 6, 13, 20, 27: Dungeons and Dragons on Zoom, 3 p.m.
March 8: Virtual Device Club, 1 p.m.
March 9: Virtual Reading the Rainbow Book Club, 7 p.m.
March 10: Mental Health Series—Meditation, 7-8 p.m.
March 20: Virtual Mindfulness for Teens, 10-11 a.m.
March 23: Job Seeker Resources on Zoom, 6-7 p.m.
March 31: Knit One, Crochet Too! on Zoom, 6 p.m.

Fredricksen Library
100 N. 19th St., Camp Hill
717-761-3900; fredricksenlibrary.org

March 1, 15: STEM Grab & Go Bag (ages 7-12), 9 a.m.
March 1, 15: Zoom—Fredricksen Writes on Zoom, 6:45 p.m.
March 8, 22: Teen Grab and Go Bag, 9 a.m.
March 2: Zoom—Curl up with the Classics on Zoom—“ The Screwtape Letters,” 10-11 a.m.
March 2, 9, 16, 23: Career Exploration Workshop on Zoom, 10:30 a.m.
March 2, 9, 16, 23: Career Exploration Workshop on Zoom, 4:30 p.m.
March 3: Zoom—Moving Forward Book Group w/ Hospice of Central PA, 1-2 p.m.
March 4, 11, 18, 25: Zoom Resume Writing Workshop, 10:30-11:30 a.m.
March 4, 11, 18, 25: Zoom Resume Writing Workshop, 4:30-5:30 p.m.
March 4, 18: Virtual Peaceful Poses Children’s Story Time, 11 a.m.-12 p.m.
March 5, 12, 19, 26: Virtual Get That Job! Workshop, 10:30-11:30 a.m.
March 5, 12, 19, 26: Virtual Get That Job! Workshop, 4:30-5:30 p.m.
March 6, 20: Easy Craft Grab and Go Bag (ages 4-7), 1 p.m.
March 8: Twisted Stitchers, 6:30-8:30 p.m.
March 12: Philosophers’ Roundtable, 2 p.m.
March 12, 26: Zoom STEM Storytime, 10 a.m.
March 17: Zoom—Write On, 7:30 p.m.

Gallery on the Square
Millersburg Area Art Association
226 Union St., Millersburg
Facebook: Gallery on the Square

March 8, 15, 22: Practical Color Theory, 5-5:40 p.m.

Hershey Public Library
701 Cocoa Ave., Hershey
717-533-6555; hersheylibrary.org

March 2, 4, 9, 11, 14, 18, 23, 25, 30: Penn State Hershey—Mothers & Babies Together, 10 a.m.
March 6: Virtual COVID Safety Storytime, 10 a.m.
March 6: Connect for Your Health—Evaluating Online Health Information virtual workshop, 11 a.m.
March 7, 14: Art of Truth—Creative Non-Fiction virtual workshop, 2 p.m.
March 8: Discovering Your Patriot Ancestors virtual workshop, 7 p.m.
March 9: Virtual Connect for Your Health—MedlinePlus for Online Health Information, 6 p.m.
March 10, 24: Virtual LEGO Club, 3:45 p.m.
March 11: Morning Contemporary Book Group on Zoom, 9:30 a.m.
March 11: Evening Contemporary Book Group, 6:30 p.m.
March 12: “Brothers and Sisters”—a Bill Harley virtual watch party, 7 p.m.
March 13: Connect for Your Health: Health information in the News (virtual), 11 a.m.
March 13: One Book One Community Book Discussion (virtual), 2 p.m.
March 18: Life-long Readers Book Group on Zoom, 6:30 p.m.
March 20: The Spanish Influenza of 1917-1918 in the Philadelphia Region (virtual), 2 p.m.
March 21: Mythology Madness Virtual Trivia, 2 p.m.
March 22, 29: Facebook Live: Books & Babies, 10 a.m.
March 23: Blood Drive, 1:30 p.m.
March 23, 30: Virtual 1, 2, Whee!, 10 a.m.
March 25: Virtual Storytime, 10 a.m.
March 25: Zoom—Between the Lines Book Group on Zoom, 6:45 p.m.
March 27: Virtual Kids Carry & Craft—Kite Mosaic, 10 a.m.
March 27: Virtual Teen/Adult Carry & Craft—Rock Painting, 11 a.m.

The Hershey Story Museum
63 W. Chocolate Ave., Hershey
717-534-8939; hersheystory.org

March 1-31: Chocolate Lab classes
March 27, 28: Easter-themed Chocolate Lab classes

Historic Harrisburg Association
1230 N. 3rd St., Harrisburg
historicharrisburg.com

March 22: Fourth Monday Program—Four Generations of Strong Women in Harrisburg, 6-7 p.m.

Joseph T. Simpson Public Library
16 N. Walnut St., Mechanicsburg
717-766-0171; simpsonlibrary.org

March 1, 5, 8, 12, 15, 19, 22, 26: Toddler Time on Zoom (18 months to 3 years), 11:10 a.m.
March 1, 8, 15, 22, 29: Story Time on Zoom, 1:30-2 p.m.
March 1, 8, 15, 22, 29: Rhyme Time on Zoom (18 months and younger), 10:15 a.m., 5:15 p.m.
March 1, 8, 15, 22, 29: Toddler Time on Zoom (18 months to 3 years), 6 p.m.
March 1, 8, 15, 22, 29: Family Story Time on Zoom, 6:45-7:15 p.m.
March 2, 9, 16, 23, 30: Tea & Stitches on Zoom, 10 a.m.
March 3, 10, 17, 24, 31: Zoom Story Time (ages 3-6), 10-10:45 a.m.
March 5, 12, 19, 26: Story Time (ages 3-6), 10-10:45 a.m.
March 5, 12, 19, 26: Zoom Toddler Time (18 months to 3 years), 11:10 a.m.
March 5, 12, 19, 26: Rhyme Time (18 months and younger), 12-12:20 p.m.
March 9: Tween Scene on Zoom—Game Night (grades 4-5), 6:30-7:30 p.m.
March 10: Mad About Mysteries on Zoom, 7-8 p.m.
March 12, 26: Dungeons & Dragons (grades 6-12), 6-8 p.m.
March 15: Virtual Monday Night Book Club, 7-8 p.m.
March 16: Zoom STEM Club, 6-6:45 p.m.
March 20: Kindergarten Club, 10:30-11:30 a.m.

The LBGT Center of Central PA
1306 N. 3rd St., Harrisburg
717-920-9534; centralpalgbtcenter.org

March 1, 8, 15, 22, 29: Virtual Common Roads (Young Adult), 4-6 p.m.
March 6, 13, 20, 27: Virtual Passageways Transgender & Non-binary Group, 2-4 p.m.

Middletown Public Library
20 N. Catherine St., Middletown
717-944-6412; middletownpubliclib.org

March 4: Virtual and in-person Book Club, 6-7 p.m.
March 5, 12, 19, 26: Online Science Fiction Book Club
March 5, 12, 19, 26: Star Trek Rewatch online group
March 15: Virtual and in-person Mystery Book Club, 6 p.m.

Midtown Scholar Bookstore-Café
1302 N. 3rd St., Harrisburg
717-236-1680; midtownscholar.com

March 4: An Evening with Anne Lamott, 7-8 p.m.

The Millworks
340 Verbeke St.; Harrisburg
717-695-4888; millworksharrisburg.com

March 6: First Saturday Open Studios, 1-5 p.m.

Ned Smith Center for Nature and Art
176 Water Company Rd., Millersburg
717-692-3699; nedsmithcenter.org

March 21: Ducks and Geese of the Susquehanna, 8 a.m.-1 p.m.

Palmyra Public Library
50 Landings Dr., Annville
717-838-1347; palmyra.lclibs.org

March 2, 4, 9, 11: Little Explorers Virtual Early Learning Classes, 10:30-11 a.m.

Perry County Council of the Arts
Landis House, 67 N. 4th St., Newport
717-567-7023; perrycountyarts.org

March 13: Virtual Paint Together, 4-6 p.m.

Pine Street Presbyterian Church

310 N. Third Street, Harrisburg

717-238-9304; pinestreet.org/education

Mar. 7, 14, 21: “The Sermon on the Mount,” 8:45 a.m.

The State Museum of Pennsylvania
300 North St., Harrisburg
717-787-4980; statemuseumpa.org

March 5: Virtual Artists Conversations—Violet Oakley’s William Penn Mural, 12:15-12:45 p.m.
March 7: Virtual Charter Day
March 12: Virtual Adventures in Nature Lab: PA Songbirds, 12:15-12:45 p.m.
March 19: Virtual Curator’s Choice: Deadly Contact: Europeans, Native Americans, and Pandemics, 12:15-12:45 p.m.
March 26: Virtual State Museum Perspectives—Archaeology, 12:15-12:45 p.m.

Susquehanna Art Museum
1401 N. 3rd St., Harrisburg
717-233-8668; susquehannaartmuseum.org

March 14, 21, 28: Saturday Morning Art Club, 10 a.m.-12 p.m.
March 14, 21, 28: Young Artist Club, 10 a.m.-12 p.m.
March 17: Life Drawing Class, 6-9 p.m.

Wildwood Park
100 Wildwood Way, Harrisburg
717-221-0292; wildwoodlake.org

March 6: Kids Discover—Woodpeckers (ages 4-6), 10 a.m.-11:30 a.m.
March 6: Kids Discover—Woodpeckers (ages 7-10), 1:30-3 p.m.
March 13: Volunteer Work Day—Litter Clean Up, 10 a.m.-1 p.m.
March 13: Spring Wreath Workshop, 8:30 a.m., 12 p.m., 1:45 p.m.
March 24: Bird Walk—Waterfowl and Early Spring Migrants, 8-10 a.m.
March 27: Juniors—Animal Habitats, 10 a.m.-1:30 p.m.
March 30: Nature Journaling, 1-3 p.m.

Live Music

American Music Theatre
2425 Lincoln Highway East, Lancaster
717-397-7700; amtshows.com

March 21: Air Supply
March 25: 38 Special
March 26, 27: Celtic Woman Celebration

Appell Center for the Performing Arts
50 N. George St., York
717-846-1111; appellcenter.org

March 13, 15: York Symphony Orchestra digital concert
March 18, 25: A.J. Croce livestream

Arts on the Square
Market Square Presbyterian Church
20 S. 2nd St., Harrisburg
Facebook: Market Square Church

March 28: Pianists Ruth Slenczynska and Shelly Moorman-Stahlman (free live stream on Facebook page, 4 p.m.)

Club XL
801 S. 10th St., Harrisburg
717-409-8975; xlhbg.com

March 6: X Ambassadors

Luhrs Performing Arts Center
1871 Old Main Dr., Shippensburg
717-477-7469; luhrscenter.com

March 14: Ireland with Michael Londra virtual performance

Market Cross Pub & Brewery
113 N. Hanover St., Carlisle
717-258-1234; marketcrosspub.com

March 7: Shrimp Ryan’s Jig Band

Market Square Concerts
www.marketsquareconcerts.org

March 14: Verona Quartet at Whitaker Center

Messiah University School of Arts
One University Ave., Mechanicsburg
717-766-2511; messiah.edu

March 5: Messiah University Symphony Orchestra
March 7: Kuhlman Competition
March 26: Messiah University Concert Choir and Chamber Singers
March 27: Messiah University Percussion Ensemble

Ned Smith Center for Nature and Art
176 Water Company Rd., Millersburg
717-692-3699; nedsmithcenter.org

March 27: Leblanc, Kissinger & Messano

Pine Street Presbyterian Church

310 N. Third Street, Harrisburg

717-238-9304; pinestreet.org/music/maps

Mar. 21: Lenten Recital

The Susquehanna Folk Music Society
717-745-6577; sfmsfolk.org

March 13: We Banjo 3
March 14: SFMS Coffeehouse with Matt Minskie, Redacted, Roman Barten-Sherman
March 27: Väsen

Whitaker Center
222 Market St., Harrisburg
717-214-ARTS; whitakercenter.org

March 18: The Allman Betts Band

The Stage Door

Dutch Apple Dinner Theatre
510 Centerville Rd., Lancaster
717-898-1900; DutchApple.com

March 3-April 3: “Happy Days”

Gamut Theatre Group
15 N. 4th St., Harrisburg
717-238-4111; gamuttheatre.org

March 14, 29: “Do You Know Me?” digital performance

Harrisburg Christian Performing Arts Center
1000 S. Eisenhower Blvd, Middletown
717-939-9333; thehcpac.org

March 11-14: “The Little Mermaid”

Messiah University School of Arts
One University Ave., Mechanicsburg
717-766-2511; messiah.edu

March 4-7: “Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs” livestream
March 26-27: Spring Senior Series livestream

Open Stage of Harrisburg
223 Walnut St., Harrisburg
717-232-OPEN; openstagehbg.com

March 5-21: “Everyman”

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Ounce of Prevention: Good colon health is a key to healthy aging

February 26, 2021 | by Thomas Mazza, MD

March is National Colorectal Cancer awareness month. It is a time when people are encouraged to talk with their doctor about colorectal cancer screening and get screened for colorectal cancer.

The risk of getting colorectal cancer increases as we age. It is the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths for both men and women combined in the United States. About 90% of cases occur in people who are 50 years old or older. However, the cure and even prevention of colorectal cancer is possible with a healthy diet and appropriate screening.

Your daily diet has a huge impact on your long-term health. Some of the foods we eat every day can increase or decrease the risk of illnesses such as heart disease, diabetes, high blood pressure and even cancer.

For good colon health, consider the following healthy habits.

Incorporate fruits, vegetables, beans and whole grains in your diet each day. These foods are high in fiber. A high-fiber diet may lower your risk of developing hemorrhoids and diverticulosis (small pouches in your colon). Avoid processed foods such as hot dogs, canned meats and cold cuts.
Drink plenty of fluids, enough so that your urine is light yellow or clear like water. The bowel needs water to work properly. Dehydration can lead to digestive problems, constipation and an overly acidic stomach. Avoid sodas and alcohol.
Get some exercise every day. Try to do moderate activity at least 2½ hours a week. Or try to do vigorous activity at least 1¼ hours a week. It’s fine to be active in blocks of 10 minutes or more throughout your day and week.
Take a fiber supplement, such as Citrucel or Metamucil, every day if needed. Read and follow all instructions on the label.
Schedule time each day for a bowel movement. Having a daily routine may help. Take your time and do not strain when you are having a bowel movement.
Stop using tobacco products.

In addition to a healthy diet, screenings are an important tool in the prevention of colon cancer. Colorectal cancer usually develops from pre-cancerous polyps. Several screening tests detect these polyps including stool studies for blood and DNA, a flexible sigmoidoscopy and a colonoscopy.

“Screenings exist to find the disease before you develop symptoms. Small colorectal polyps and early colorectal cancer produces no symptoms. Early detection of colon polyps or early colorectal cancers is the only way to prevent or cure colorectal cancer,” said Thomas Mazza, MD, colon and rectal surgeon at UPMC.

Once a cancer has grown to a size where it causes symptoms such as “bowel problems” or bleeding, the chance for a cure is greatly reduced.

A colonoscopy is the single best screening exam for colorectal cancer. Unlike other screenings, a colonoscopy allows your doctor to detect and potentially remove pre-cancerous polyps at the same time.

A colonoscopy examines the colon by using a long, flexible, lighted tube called the colonoscope, giving the doctor full view of the entire colon and rectum. During this exam, the doctor can also remove pre-cancerous polyps. The procedure itself takes less than an hour and usually involves sedation.

Dr. Mazza recommends that men and women who have no symptoms and no family history of colorectal cancer should schedule a screening colonoscopy between the ages of 45 to 50.

Patients who test positive with other screening tests for colon cancer (i.e., Cologuard, FIT, etc.) and adults of any age who have symptoms of abdominal or rectal pain, rectal bleeding, or a change in bowel habits should also have a colonoscopy.

However, “some individuals should consider earlier screening,” said Dr. Mazza.

A patient with a family history of colon or rectal cancer or large polyps should be screened 10 years earlier than the age of the family member when he or she was diagnosed, or at age 40—whichever is younger. Adults with familial syndromes such as Lynch Syndrome or Familial Adenomatous Polyposis (FAP) Syndrome should also consider early screening. African Americans have a higher incidence of colon cancer and average risk screening should occur at age 45.

While the incidence of colorectal cancer is declining in patients 50 years or older, there is a notable increase in patients younger than 50. Consequently, the American Cancer Society recommends screening all patients of average risk at age 45.

Dr. Mazza also encourages patients to see their primary care provider on an annual basis. Conversations about screening will be a part of the annual appointment for those 50 years of age and older.

For more information on colon health, visit www.UPMC.com or to schedule an appointment, call 717-232-4567.

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Some elderly residents in Harrisburg public housing to receive vaccine from UPMC

February 25, 2021 | by Maddie Conley Gittens

Jackson Tower on N. 6th Street.

A large group of seniors in Harrisburg will have the chance to receive the COVID vaccine this weekend.

The Harrisburg Housing Authority partnered with UPMC to offer vaccinations for all residents at the authority’s Jackson Tower and Lick Tower—apartments for the elderly.

“We believe it’s important for us to provide this opportunity directly to our residents,” said Oche Bridgeford, director of communications for the housing authority. “Nationally, people of color, especially Black people, have the lowest immunization rates in the country.”

Residents over the age of 65 who sign up before noon on Friday can receive the shot onsite at the towers on Saturday from 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Elderly staff or those with severe health conditions may be eligible, as well.

“UPMC is committed to continuing to address health disparities and setting aside first doses for underserved communities, communities of color, and communities hardest hit by COVID-19,” said Tina Nixon, vice president of mission effectiveness, diversity and inclusion at UPMC Pinnacle.

According to Bridgeford, some residents at the two complexes have already been vaccinated. There have been many barriers to residents accessing it, he said, as most are low-income and lack means of transportation.

As of noon on Thursday, Bridgeford said almost 50% of residents had registered. He expects even more by Friday.

He hopes that the Harrisburg Housing Authority can partner with UPMC for future vaccine distributions, as well.

“We look forward to expanding vaccination opportunities in coordination with our Mission Effectiveness team as more vaccine becomes available,” Nixon said.

Residents of the Jackson Tower or Lick Tower can register by calling 717-443-0824. For more information, visit https://harrisburghousing.org/.

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Weekend Roundup with Sara Bozich

February 25, 2021 | by Sara Bozich

If you’re looking for things to do this weekend around Harrisburg and central PA, we have a handful below, most of which are virtual or outdoor only.

What’s inside:

For your weekend planning:
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Top Weekend Recs
- Thursday
- Friday
- Saturday
- Sunday
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Need something NEW to do? Check out Open Stage’s virtual content, including trifles | a play reading. #ShopBlack with our local Black-Owned business directory.

(Still) Worth noting: We revived our private Facebook group, Cheers Harrisburg. You can join the convo here.

Things on my agenda this weekend: Making lots of homemade stock – beef, chicken, vegetable. Follow along on IG!

Don’t forget to support your local brewery! Click here to find one near you.

For your weekend planning:

One final week of Cumberland County Restaurant Month
- Check out my #CVEats Instagram Guide
↬ 5 Ways to Support Local Restaurants Right Now
View our local Restaurant Directory
Local Brewery, Winery, & Cidery Directory
See what else you missed on the blog.

Below are options for your weekend.

Things to Do in Harrisburg + Central PA | Weekend Roundup | Sara Bozich

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Top Weekend Recs

Upgrade your bar cart with these local spirits + fave tools
Some ideas for self-care
Everything to know about lash extensions
Chocolate-Covered February in Hershey
Binge Poured in PA: The Series!

COVID-19 Disclaimer: As always, please click through the links or call ahead to get the most up-to-date information about venues and/or events below. It should also go without saying, but I’ll say it — Mask up, follow the rules, and be nice. And tip extra!

Thursday

Wine & Chocolate Dinner: Michael David Winery at Harvest at The Hotel Hershey
LGBT Center and GLO Harrisburg host a Virtual Job Fair
Gamut Theatre Group TMI Improv LIVE! Online

Friday

Learn @ Lunch with The State Museum of Pennsylvania: Exploring Virtual Tours
Open Stage presents Tales from Sleepy Hollow (Virtual)
Open Stage presents trifles | a play reading (Virtual)
Popcorn Pop Up! at Midtown Cinema
BLACK IN THE BURG 2021: BLACK IN THE FUTURE
Restaurant Week York
Black is Beautiful Expo 2021 at the Crown Plaza
Prisoner Wine Company Dinner at Revelry at Hershey Lodge

Saturday

Midtown Scholar Sidewalk Sale
Popcorn Pop Up! at Midtown Cinema
Open Stage presents Tales from S l eepy Hollow (Virtual)
Open Stage presents trifles | a play reading (Virtual)
BLACK IN THE BURG 2021: BLACK IN THE FUTURE
SoupFest 2021 at Newberrytown Peddler’s Market
February Wine & Chocolate pairings at The Vineyard & Brewery at Hershey
Restaurant Week York
Harrisburg Symphony Orchestra Masterworks Series Strum
Black is Beautiful Expo 2021 at the Crown Plaza
Chris Wiles and Shane McConnaghy at Harrisburg Comedy Zone
Gospel Music Concert with The Campbell Brothers, Spiritual Messengers Warriors for God open (Online)

Sunday

Sunday Brunch To Go from The Circular at The Hotel Hershey
Open Stage presents Tales from Sleepy Hollow (Virtual)
Open Stage presents trifles | a play reading (Virtual)
BLACK IN THE BURG 2021: BLACK IN THE FUTURE
Restaurant Week York
Harrisburg Symphony Orchestra Masterworks Series Strum
Mindful Parenting Series with H2L Studio

What are you doing this weekend around Harrisburg? Let us know on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.

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Dauphin County to use HACC parking lot when mass vaccination becomes available

February 24, 2021 | by Maddie Conley Gittens

HACC entrance

Currently in Pennsylvania, only certain high-risk individuals are receiving the COVID-19 vaccine, but Dauphin County is preparing for the day when the state is ready for mass vaccination.

The county has partnered with Harrisburg Area Community College (HACC) to use its west end parking lot for a clinic location, once more doses become available from state and federal resources.

“Getting vaccinated is a concern to many of our residents and is a top priority of ours,” Dauphin County Commissioner Mike Pries said in a statement. “We have been planning in the event doses become available to supply such an operation. This agreement ensures we will have a central location able to support mass vaccination, should dosages increase.”

The county has communicated with enrolled vaccine providers, medical personnel and other community partners essential to support a mass vaccination operation.

Commissioner Jeff Haste said that HACC provides a central and accessible location for underserved populations, including communities of color and rural communities in northern Dauphin County.

Additionally, the county is working with local organizations, such as the Capital Area Coalition for the Homeless and Bethesda Mission, on a homelessness outreach initiative. They are developing a plan for a mobile clinic to reach this population.

While residents wait for their turn to receive the vaccine, the county encourages them to register with area providers – UPMC and Penn State Health and check with pharmacies for opportunities.

Pennsylvania is still in phase 1A of distribution, which includes the elderly, healthcare workers and those with chronic illnesses, according to the PA Department of Health.

For more information, visit Dauphin County’s website.

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What’s inside:

For your weekend planning:

Are you on the email list?

Top Weekend Recs

Thursday

Friday

Saturday

Sunday

Like this content?

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