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”

Support quality local journalism. Become a Friend of TheBurg!

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.

Support quality local journalism. Become a Friend of TheBurg!

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/.

Support quality local journalism. Become a Friend of TheBurg!

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:
Are you on the email list?
Top Weekend Recs
- Thursday
- Friday
- Saturday
- Sunday
Like this content?

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

Are you on the email list?

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.

Like this content?

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.

Support quality local journalism. Become a Friend of TheBurg!

Dauphin County awards gaming grants, many Harrisburg projects receive funding

February 24, 2021 | by Maddie Conley Gittens

Dauphin County Administration building on N. 2nd Street

Dauphin County gaming grants will go to over 80 local projects this year, many addressing education, recreation and food insecurity.

At a legislative session on Wednesday, the county commissioners approved just under $6.2 million in awards, funded each year by the county’s share of revenue from Hollywood Casino at Penn National.

Harrisburg-based projects were the recipients of some of the gaming money, which went primarily toward building renovations and improvements. These include:

Harrisburg City: $150,000 for Public Safety Building HVAC system replacement
Harrisburg Rugby Football Club: $50,000 for design and construction of rugby fields and related improvements
The Salvation Army: $69,690 for food recovery, assistance and nutrition services program
Dauphin County Library System: $75,000 for integration of downtown library facilities
Harrisburg Scottish Rite Cathedral and Masonic Theatre: $34,720 for lighting conversion project
Keystone Service Systems, Inc.: $50,000 for Capital Area Head Start service dogs
CASA Charter School Foundation: $75,000 for academic classroom expansion project
Harrisburg School District: $47,500 for John Harris Campus security camera replacements
Gamut Theatre: $45,000 for debt reduction on building renovation
GreenWorks Development: $75,000 for redevelopment of Midtown Harrisburg mixed-use project
Susquehanna Art Museum: $60,000 for replacement recreational vehicle for VanGo! art gallery
Macedonia Missionary Baptist Church: $51,000 for renovation, repair and restoration of Church facility
Breaking the Chainz: $35,000 for repairs to apartment building for displaced families working with Dauphin County Children & Youth Services and other agencies
Harrisburg Area Community College: $75,000 for purchase of self-contained breathing apparatus system for public safety training programs
Whitaker Center for Science and the Arts: $75,000 for renovations to create Innovation Studio for STEAM education
Harrisburg University: $75,000 for HUE Festival and renovation of academic space
The Nativity School: $75,000 for new school facility phase II renovations
Camp Curtin YMCA: $75,000 for design and construction of affordable housing
The Homeland Center: $56,000 for security infrastructure improvements and visitor management
Capital Area Soccer Association: $25,000 to upgrade Ranger and George Park fields
Catholic Charities: $25,000 for Saint Samuel Center windows and door replacements
Downtown Daily Bread: $20,000 for debt service on installation of air-conditioning in day shelter
The National Civil War Museum: $25,000 for reduction of long-term debt

“I think the leveraging of the money has been great this year and I think the diversity of the projects throughout the county is representative of the communities we serve,” Dauphin County Commissioner George Hartwick said.

Last year, the county awarded $6.3 million from casino gaming revenue to projects recommended by the Gaming Advisory Board.

The Hollywood Casino at Penn National’s gross terminal revenue was down from 2019 by 41%, with COVID-19 as the main contributing factor. However, a surge in iGaming (online gambling) helped the county maintain its average amount of received funds.

This year’s projects will leverage an estimated $24.8 million in additional investment related to the funded projects and over 11,700 jobs will be created or maintained in conjunction with the projects, said Mark Stewart, counsel for the Gaming Advisory Board.

The following is a complete list of the projects that will receive Dauphin County gaming grant funding this year:

Host & Contiguous

East Hanover Township (Annual road maintenance, fire company self-contained breathing apparatus)—$500,000
South Hanover Township (Municipal complex debt reduction)—$284,000
Derry Township ($157,069 Police and Public Works radios; $68,400 Hershey Volunteer Fire Co. radio replacements; $45,000 Derry Township School District safety and security upgrades and $17,700 Hershey American Legion building roof replacement)—$288,1694
Middle Paxton Township ($124,000 Potato Valley Road Bridge debt; $126,300 Dauphin Middle Paxton Joint Park Authority site development plan and ADA improvements)—$250,3005
Rush Township (Skid steer vehicle) —$74,236

Other Awards

Dauphin County Parks & Recreation Department (repair and restoration of Wildwood Park boardwalk) —$50,000
Dauphin County Sheriff’s Office (replacement of mobile and portable police radios) —$68,000
Dauphin Co. Local Emergency Planning Committee (hazardous materials duty officer response vehicle replacement) —$69,330
Dauphin County General Authority (golf course irrigation system debt payment) —$141,200
Susquehanna Township ($90,000 Uptown infrastructure improvement project debt payment and $60,000 Boyd Park Phase 2 improvements) —$150,000
Penbrook Borough (sewer interceptor replacement) —$85,000
Royalton Borough ($75,000 Borough Hall HVAC project debt service; and $20,000 police radios and police safety equipment) —$95,000
Swatara Township (Bishop Park multi-purpose trail construction project) —$150,000
Hummelstown Borough (Municipal and Public Safety Building debt reduction) —$49,015
Jackson Township/Fisherville Vol. Fire Co. (fire station addition construction debt) —$36,522
Lower Swatara Township ($188,418Annual DCIB loan payments and PennVest loan repayment; and $50,000 Lower Swatara Volunteer Fire Co. Tanker 59 debt reduction) —$238,418
Upper Paxton Township/Millersburg Fire Co. No. 1(Fire truck emergency and on scene lighting) —$60,478
Millersburg Area School District (security and accessibility upgrades at schools) —$48,000
Steelton Borough (Brickyard Community Park construction) —$90,000
Paxtang Borough (Municipal Complex improvements) —$150,000
Londonderry Township (sanitary sewer extension) —$140,000
Lower Paxton Township (police department body cameras and mobile vehicle cameras) —$128,387
Harrisburg City (Public Safety Building HVAC system replacement) —$150,000
Halifax Borough (retention wall replacement and storm water line installation) —$75,000
Lykens Borough/Authority ($75,000 Lykens Borough Phase III replacement of water distribution system; $41,000 Liberty Hose Co. No. 2 replacement of hoses and nozzles) —$116,000
Halifax Township/Halifax Fire Department (purchase of brush truck and associated equipment) —$50,000
Elizabethville Borough/Reliance Hose Co. No. 1 (Pierce Pumper Truck debt reduction) —$40,000
Berrysburg Municipal Authority (sewage treatment plant system project) —$34,000
Reed Township (contribution to debt payment on aerial fire apparatus) —$37,000
Harrisburg Rugby Football Club (design and construction of rugby fields and related improvements) —$50,000
Dauphin County Library System (integration of downtown library facilities) —$75,000
The Salvation Army (food recovery, assistance and nutrition services program) —$69,690
Harrisburg Scottish Rite Cathedral and Masonic Theatre (lighting conversion project) —$34,720
Court Administration for Magisterial District Judges (debt reduction on construction of new MDJ facilities) —$170,000
Williamstown Borough/ Williamstown American Legion Post 239 (JFK Hall renovations to bathroom facilities) —$63,560
Wiconisco Fire Engine Co. (debt reduction on new fire rescue) —$40,000
Girl Scouts in the Heart of Pennsylvania (Camp Small Valley capital improvements) —$53,000
Keystone Service Systems, Inc. (Capital Area Head Start service dogs) —$50,000
CASA Charter School Foundation (academic classroom expansion project) —$75,000
Harrisburg City School District (John Harris Campus security camera replacements) —$47,500
Gamut Theatre (debt reduction on building renovation) —$45,000
GreenWorks Development (redevelopment of Midtown Harrisburg mixed-use project) —$75,000
Susquehanna Art Museum (replacement of recreational vehicle for VanGo! art gallery) —$60,000
Macedonia Missionary Baptist Church (renovation, repair and restoration of Church facility) —$51,000
Breaking the Chainz (repairs to apartment building for displaced families working with Dauphin Co. Children & Youth Services and other agencies) —$35,000
Driven From Within (support for after-school programs, youth tutoring, college tours and classes) —$5,000
D&H Distributing (construction of new training center) —$33,486
Harrisburg Area Community College (purchase of self-contained breathing apparatus system for public safety training programs) —$75,000
Whitaker Center for Science and the Arts (renovations to create Innovation Studio for STEAM education) —$75,000
Susquehanna Area Regional Airport Authority (fire Department restroom renovation project) —$21,825
Panther Ram Foundation (Central Dauphin School District Nutri-packs program) —$50,000
Harrisburg University (HUE Festival and renovation of academic space) —$75,000
The Nativity School (new school facility Phase II renovations) —$75,000
Camp Curtin YMCA (design and construction of affordable housing) —$75,000
The Homeland Center (security infrastructure improvements and visitor management) —$56,000
Middletown Volunteer Fire Dept. (pumper Truck debt reduction) —$94,978
Phase 4 Learning Center, Inc. (update existing and acquire new technology resources conditioned upon resources being used in Dauphin Co.) —$74,874
Penn State University (Harrisburg Innovation Park planning project) —$35,000
Ghost Brewing Company d/b/a Rubber Soul (phase II construction of brewery) —$85,000
Hanna Education Foundation (food pantry enhancement) —$25,000
Veterans Outreach of Pennsylvania (construction of tiny homes community for veterans conditioned upon matching funds being obtained for the project) —$69,000
Capital Area Soccer Association (upgrade Ranger and George Park Fields) —$25,000
Catholic Charities (Saint Samuel Center windows and door replacements) —$25,000
Downtown Daily Bread (debt service on installation of air-conditioning in day shelter) —$20,000
Farm of Hope (improvements to driveways and walkways at farm serving individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities) —$15,000
The National Civil War Museum (reduction of long-term debt) —$25,000
OC Highway LLC (renovate Opportunity House to provide housing, life skills and vocational training) —$75,000
The Program, It’s About Change (reduction of debt on Phase I renovations of Ray of Hope House) —$50,000
Cyrene Lodge 169 (building repairs and tree removal) —$29,250
Linglestown Baseball Association (Koons Park Baseball Field Upgrades) —$68,500
The Campus of the Jewish Home of Greater Harrisburg (renovations and upgrades to facilities and purchase of a wheelchair accessible bus) —$75,000
Ecumenical Community of Harrisburg (portico replacement and deck) —$10,000
Capital Region Literacy Council (purchase and distribution of new children’s books) —$20,000
Communities in Schools of PA (renovate local headquarters and establish a youth Re-engagement Center) —$27,000
Devon Manor Pool and Swim Club (infrastructure and facilities improvements) —$25,000
Hospice of Central PA (conference room safety, technology and intake area upgrades) —$25,000
Hummelstown Area Historical Society (restoration of the Parish House building) —$25,000
Middletown Swim Club (repairs and upgrades to pool facility) —$17,167
New Birth of Freedom Council, Boy Scouts of America (Scoutreach Program Dauphin County affordability and accessibility initiative) —$15,000
Pop’s House (debt reduction on acquisition of home for veterans conditioned upon funds being applied to payoff IDA loan) —$30,000
Summit Terrace Neighborhood Association (upgrade and revitalize community building and fund technology upgrades) —$10,000
Dauphin County Industrial Development Authority (administration) —$650,000

Support quality local journalism. Become a Friend of TheBurg!

Midtown Harrisburg projects get zoning approvals, inch closer to construction

February 23, 2021 | by Lawrance Binda

The “Carpets and Draperies” building was one of several projects that received zoning board approval on Monday night.

Several Midtown Harrisburg building projects took steps forward on Monday night, gaining key zoning approvals.

During a four-hour virtual meeting, the city Zoning Hearing Board voted unanimously to approve variances for an apartment building/community center and townhouses in the Capitol Heights neighborhood; an apartment building and parking garage on Reily Street; and the conversion of a dilapidated commercial structure to a small apartment building.

First, the board approved a variance for the “Carpets and Draperies” building on the 1500-block of N. 3^rd Street. A Midtown resident, Nate Foote, wants to convert the blighted, century-old structure to a five-unit apartment building, with commercial space on the ground floor.

Foote has a contract to purchase the 4,800-square-foot building from Schnecksville, Pa.-based Mussani & Matz Co., which has owned it since 2007. However, the purchase is contingent on getting the necessary approvals from the city.

At the meeting, Chuck Heller, a realtor for Camp Hill-based Landmark Commercial Realty, said the building has been on the market for about a decade, with many potentially interested buyers during that time. However, in the end, the building’s blighted condition and daunting rehabilitation costs have deterred offers.

“This is one of my longest listings,” he said. “It’s an amazing building, and there’s been a lot of interest in it, but, once you start digging into it, it’s usually squashed the transaction.”

Board Chair Tom Leonard said that the board had received numerous letters of support for the project from neighbors of the building.

“I think Nate has a great plan in place and will do a great job,” said Doug Neidich, CEO of GreenWorks Development, which owns several properties in the immediate area. “It will be a step forward for the whole Midtown area.”

The project has no off-street parking, but Foote has said that he would lease nearby spaces to satisfy the city’s parking requirement.

Secondly, the board approved a variance and a special exception for the Capitol Heights project, proposed by Harrisburg residents Chris and Erica Bryce, along with Matt Long of Harrisburg Commercial Interiors.

That project envisions building an 18,000-square-foot, three-story apartment building on the 1600-block of N. 3^rd Street. The building would have 12 market rate and affordable units with a 4,180-square-foot community center on the ground floor. The project also includes eight single-family townhomes with built-in garages at the rear of the site facing Logan Street.

The Capitol Heights project includes a new apartment building and community center (left).

Part of the site includes a longstanding community garden, which would be relocated to another part of the property.

“It’s certainly something that will benefit the community as a whole, and I look forward to seeing what you have in store,” said board member Shannon Gority, after she voted for approval.

Lastly, the board approved variances and special exceptions for a seven-story apartment building and parking garage at Reily and Fulton streets, located a block away from the new federal courthouse currently under construction.

This project, by entities called 400 Reily Street Management LLC and KevGar Holdco LLC, proposes an 85-unit apartment building and a 500-space parking garage, with first-floor retail space, which likely would house a grocery store, a restaurant and coffee shop, according to principal Kevin Baird.

The parking garage would serve both the courthouse and the Midtown community, Baird said.

“All roads led to the parking challenge in Midtown, and we all know how much that will be exacerbated by the opening of the federal courthouse in October 2022,” said Baird, describing the origins of the project.

A rendering of the proposed apartment building and parking garage on Reily Street.

Originally, the project included office space, but Baird said that he opted for more apartments because the residential market in Harrisburg is strong, while the office market is weak, likely due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

One neighbor objected because, she said, the grocery store, in particular, could lead to parking congestion in the area.

“People are not going to go up into a garage to go to the grocery store,” said the Fulton Street resident. “If I’m just going in for a loaf of bread, I’m not going up into a garage.”

Baird said that shoppers likely would get some free parking time in the garage to encourage its use and that shoppers in other cities often use parking garages to access urban grocery stores.

Approved by the zoning board, each of these projects now needs to have their land development plans approved by City Council before they can begin construction.

Support quality local journalism. Become a Friend of TheBurg!

Bob’s Art Blog: Art Party Must Go On

February 21, 2021 | by Bob MacGinnes

Chad Whitaker’s soft sculptures

By their very nature, parties are a celebration and validation of life, friends and the very things that matter most in life—relationships. Man is a social animal, and what are we if we do not have friends?

There was no shortage of those on Friday night at the Civic Club of Harrisburg for a “Winter Art Party” celebrating diversity through art, hosted by Reina Wooden, “R76.”

February’s 3rd in the Burg special event left those in attendance with an “art afterglow.” Basking in the presence of many varied artists, all sharing a positive take on their respective mediums, allowed for a night apart from other 3^rd in the Burgs. It provided the opportunity for collective creatives, mixed in with the night’s guests, to “network and nosh” on some great barbecue by Queen’s BBQ and Southern Cuisine.

Beyond the artists were musicians Ari De Leo, featuring Winter Parks on the upstairs ballroom stage, lighting it up and sharing space with Chad Whitaker’s soft sculptures. A covey of creativity commingled en masse (as much as safety protocols allowed) in the spacious ballroom upstairs, maneuvering six feet apart. Judging by the turnout, dance cards were filled and egos checked at the door accordingly, as partygoers were thrilled to have an art event to attend.

Hostess Wooden and consort Charlie Feathers were over the moon by visitors coming and going all night long and are looking to do more art pop-ups throughout the year. In light of Mother Nature leaving frigid temperatures and some snow on the ground, the elements did not deter the hearty and the brave. The show itself, billed by an art blogger called Bob, name-dropped the artists as the “Maestros of Midtown.” In addition to the host, the Fab Fourteen are comprised of Shawn Maykovich who groomed the grapevine while Nora Carreras and Jonathan Frazier added to the downstairs decor with paintings potent and punctilious. Meanwhile, upstairs, artists Grace Robinson, Beau MacGinnes, Zack Rudy and Garrick Dorsett as a set (pictured), Larry Washington, Jr., Ghost Bae, Jelani Splawn, Claudie Kenion and Bethany Nicholle shared the spotlight.

It was a night to see and be seen. From politicos to gallery owners, the crowd was rabid to meet the artists. The vibe was contagious, and, by all reports, the evening a huge success. So much so that a second chance opening today, Sunday, Feb. 21 from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m., grants the art-going public another opportunity to meet most of the artists, view the art up close and even purchase. From a one night only to a one day more.

The evening was capped off by Mike Sutherland shooting the scene for posterity. Think of Friday’s party as electric and today’s encore as an acoustic set, stripped down and mellow, easy like a Sunday.

The Winter Art Party continues today, Sunday, Feb. 21, 1 p.m. to 5 p.m., at the Civic Club of Harrisburg, 612 N. Front St., Harrisburg.

Photos by Beau MacGinnes

Support quality local journalism. Become a Friend of TheBurg!

The Week that Was: News and features around Harrisburg

February 19, 2021 | by Lawrance Binda and Maddie Conley Gittens

Harrisburg saw snow on Thursday and Friday.

With the cold and snowy days spent at home that we had this week, there’s no excuse for not being caught up on the local news. But, if you are behind, we forgive you. Here’s a look at what happened this week in the Harrisburg area.

Bob’s Art Blog previewed the Civic Club of Harrisburg’s art showcase for 3^rd in the Burg this Friday. Visitors can observe the art of local painters, photographers and sculptors, organized by Reina “R76” Wooden.

TheBurg Podcast debuted a special Valentine’s Day edition entitled, “To Harrisburg…Love, TheBurg.” Podcast guests from the past year shared their favorite things about Harrisburg and what makes the city so lovable.

Deborah Sibbering is Harrisburg’s new equal employment opportunity and diversity officer. When she’s not cuddling with her Chihuahuas, she’s providing diversity training to city employees and addressing complaints of workplace discrimination. Read more about her in this month’s magazine article.

Evictions in Harrisburg have been banned for another month, through mid-March, our online story reported. The city found it important to continue the moratorium for health and safety reasons.

Friends of Midtown launched their “One Midtown: Shop Black Owned” campaign to encourage patronage of Black-owned businesses in the city. Residents can send the organization a picture of any purchase they make at a Midtown business, along with the receipt, for a chance to win a prize, our online story reported.

Harrisburg opened the Locust Street Garage to extend free parking for residents during the snowstorm. The service ran from Wednesday night to Friday night, our online story reported.

Harrisburg School District officials announced that they expect to bring some students back into the classroom in April, our reporting found. As long as they meet certain benchmarks related to the decline of COVID, they will start by returning special education and elementary students.

Historic Harrisburg Association will host a webinar on Monday to discuss the Underground Railroad’s history in Harrisburg. Three local historians will share stories from their research, our reporting found.

“Lasagna Love” volunteers in the Harrisburg area are helping their neighbors by cooking up and delivering a favorite comfort food dish, our online story reported. The national organization has a central PA branch that includes over 100 volunteers.

Messiah University launched “Thriving Together: Congregations for Racial Justice,” which will involve 12 Harrisburg-area churches in a two-year cultural education experience, our online story reported. Participants will learn about the history of race and religion in the capital area.

Open Stage theater presents their own take on the haunting “Tales from Sleepy Hollow.” If you like haunted local folklore and scary stories to tell in the dark, then don’t miss this play, our theater reviewer said.

Parks—community, state and national—are reporting surges in attendance amid a worldwide pandemic, our magazine story reported. Pennsylvania, with one of the largest state park systems in the country, shattered recreation records in 2020.

Sara Bozich has your list of virtual and socially distanced activites for the weekend! Check it out, here.

Do you receive TheBurg Daily, our daily digest of news and events delivered right to your email inbox? If not, sign up here!

Support quality local journalism. Join Friends of TheBurg today!

Messiah University launches program to involve Harrisburg-area churches in racial justice work

February 19, 2021 | by Maddie Conley Gittens

A new initiative will seek to engage local churches in racial justice work. Pictured: First Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) in Lemoyne

In a time marked by significant division, a new community program aims to unite local churches on the topic of racial justice.

Messiah University, based in Upper Allen Township, launched “Thriving Together: Congregations for Racial Justice,” which will involve 12 Harrisburg-area churches in a two-year cultural education experience.

“We believe there’s an enormous role churches can play to bring healing and justice to our neighbors in the capital area,” said Dr. Drew Hart, program director and assistant professor of theology at Messiah. “There’s so much work to be done.”

Throughout the multi-year program, pastors and other church leaders will participate in seminars, workshops, field trips and projects related to racial understanding and justice.

Participants will learn about the history of race and religion in the capital region, including information on the east and west shores as racial boundaries. They will also receive anti-racism and intercultural training and study the theologies of justice and peacemaking.

Rev. D. Marie Tribble pastors the First Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) in Lemoyne and is a community leader in the Thriving Together program. For years, she has educated local faith communities around the topic of race. Many of these conversations have taken place in her own congregation as members have considered the racial dynamics of their church. Tribble, who is Black, pastors a primarily white congregation.

“Conversations about racial inequality and injustice have been more prevalent lately,” Tribble said. “Churches don’t know how to talk about it. If people don’t have an honest knowledge of the history, they won’t be able to move forward.”

Participants will also have the chance to take part in a five-day Civil Rights Bus Tour through southern states held by the nonprofit, The Common Ground Project.

Towards the end of the course, church leaders will be encouraged to design a program or ministry centered on racial justice for their own congregation.

“Our hope is that local churches could have a real presence in our community and that we wouldn’t be known for silence,” Hart said.

Any church in the Harrisburg-area is encouraged to apply for the program, no matter what denomination they are, Hart said. Their goal is to select a cohort of participants that is as racially, politically and culturally diverse as possible. The deadline to apply is March 12.

According to Hart, the program has already received a lot of interest.

The program was funded through a $1 million grant from the Lilly Endowment, a private philanthropic foundation, as part of their “Thriving Congregations Initiative,” Hart said.

“Too often, many of our churches have rejected Jesus’ prayer that God’s Kingdom would be here on earth,” he said. “There’s so much deeper work that the church can do.”

For more information on Messiah University’s “Thriving Together: Congregations for Racial Justice” program, visit their website.

Support quality local journalism. Become a Friend of TheBurg!

You May Also Like

You May Also Like

You May Also Like

What’s inside:

For your weekend planning:

Are you on the email list?

Top Weekend Recs

Thursday

Friday

Saturday

Sunday

Like this content?

You May Also Like

You May Also Like

You May Also Like

You May Also Like

You May Also Like

You May Also Like

You May Also Like