Grammy Winners, Storied Bands, and Fraggle Rock: Whitaker Center Announces Diverse Fall Performance Lineup

June 29, 2026 | by Admin

From Grammy Award-winning musicians and legendary rock tributes to beloved family entertainment and cult-classic film experiences, Whitaker Center is bringing an impressive lineup of live performances to downtown Harrisburg this fall.

Leading the season, led by original frontman Kurt Neumann, BoDeans have built a loyal following through hits such as “Closer to Free,” “Good Things,” and “Idaho.” The anniversary performance offers both longtime fans and new listeners a chance to experience the band’s enduring catalog in a unique concert format. Learn more at https://www.whitakercenter.org/performance-theater/shows/bodeans.

Music fans can also celebrate a major milestone with BoDeans, who will perform on Thursday, Aug. 13, as part of the 40th anniversary celebration of their critically acclaimed debut album, Love & Hope & Sex & Dreams. The band’s special anniversary tour features a two-and-a-half-hour performance accompanied by a video retrospective spanning five decades of music.

Next up is one of the most accomplished family bands in modern music: The Wooten Brothers. These five siblings, whose careers span more than five decades, will take the stage on Friday, Sept. 18, at 7:30 p.m. Their remarkable musical journey began in Hawaii in 1966, where they first performed publicly as child prodigies. Since then, the brothers have earned 10 Grammy Awards and 26 Grammy nominations, cementing their place among the most respected musicians in the industry.

The group’s youngest member, Victor Wooten, has been recognized by Rolling Stone magazine as one of the 10 greatest bass players of all time. Together, the brothers blend jazz, funk, soul, R&B, gospel, and rock into a sound that is both technically brilliant and deeply engaging. Tickets go on sale to the public on June 26. More information is available at https://www.whitakercenter.org/performance-theater/shows/wooten-brothers.

For fans of fantasy and nostalgia, Whitaker Center will host Jim Henson’s Labyrinth: In Concert on Tuesday, Sept. 22. Celebrating the 40th anniversary of the beloved 1986 film, the event combines a high-definition screening of the movie with a live band performing the entire soundtrack in sync with David Bowie’s original vocals.

Audiences can expect iconic songs, including “Magic Dance,” along with the film’s memorable score by Bowie and Trevor Jones. Costumes, sing-alongs, and audience participation are encouraged, making it a unique experience for devoted fans of the cult classic. Details can be found at https://www.whitakercenter.org/performance-theater/shows/labyrinth.

Classic rock enthusiasts will also want to mark their calendars for The Brit Pack: British Invasion and More on Friday, Oct. 9. The high-energy production celebrates decades of iconic British music, featuring songs by Led Zeppelin, Queen, The Rolling Stones, David Bowie, Oasis, Tears for Fears, and many more.

The show takes audiences on a musical journey from the British Invasion of the 1960s through modern-day rock anthems, highlighting the extraordinary influence of British artists on popular music. Information and tickets are available at https://www.whitakercenter.org/performance-theater/shows/brit-pack.

Families can enjoy a nostalgic adventure when Fraggle Rock: Back to the Rock Live arrives on Thursday, Oct. 15. Based on the Emmy Award-winning Apple TV+ series, the production brings the colorful world of Fraggle Rock to life with walkaround Fraggles, puppet creations from Jim Henson’s Creature Shop, beloved characters, and original songs.

Designed for audiences of all ages, the live show combines music, visual effects, humor, and heart in an immersive theatrical experience that invites families to sing, dance, and celebrate together. Learn more at https://www.whitakercenter.org/performance-theater/shows/fraggle-rock.

Making their annual return to Harrisburg, The Machine Performs Pink Floyd on Wednesday, Nov. 25. Widely regarded as one of the premier Pink Floyd tribute acts in the world, The Machine recreates the iconic sound, atmosphere, and visual spectacle associated with the legendary rock band.

Known for its exceptional musicianship, elaborate lighting, theatrical production, and faithful recreations of classic albums, The Machine has earned a devoted following among Pink Floyd fans nationwide. Additional details are available at https://www.whitakercenter.org/performance-theater/shows/the-machine.

With a lineup that spans Grammy-winning musicians, classic rock, family entertainment, and cinematic concert experiences, Whitaker Center continues to bring nationally recognized performances to the heart of downtown Harrisburg.

For tickets, complete performance details, and upcoming event announcements, visit https://www.whitakercenter.org/performance-theater/.

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The Week that Was: News and features around Harrisburg

June 26, 2026 | by TheBurg Staff

Madame Rochéle’s Apothecary general manager Jermaine Crosson

From an auction of former Harrisburg Mayor Steve Reed’s artifacts to the opening of a new apothecary-themed N. 2nd Street bar, a lot happened in Harrisburg this past week. Missed it all? Don’t fret! All the TheBurg’s daily coverage is wrapped up neatly for you below:

Camp Curtin’s incoming principal told the school board that his five-year plan to address middle school consolidation challenges Tuesday night.

City Council approved several resolutions this week, most notably pushing forward the police bureau’s plan to enhance its presence in Uptown and the coordination of an auction of former Mayor Steve Reed’s artifacts.

Harrisburg local Georgia Masters Earp recently published her first poetry book under the pen name Lucy Sage, inspired by her roaming travels.

Harrisburg’s school board advanced a $227.1 million budget with a proposed 1.5% property tax increase; board members will vote to approve the final budget next week.

Harrisburg Small Business Accelerator Program pitch competition recognized and awarded entrepreneurs, including a public relations agency owner and a cleaning services provider.

Historic Harrisburg Association will offer a “Downtown Harrisburg through the Centuries” walking tour next week about past revitalization tactics in the city.

July 4th Food Truck Festival was announced by city officials Friday. It will take place on Saturday, July 4 in Riverfront Park from 1 to 9 p.m. and feature over 40 food trucks, live music, a wine/beer garden, a petting zoo and free family activities.

Local parents and educational experts explored how much screen time for children is too much screen time in our June magazine story. Read more here.

Madame Rochéle’s Apothecary, a new cocktail bar and tea house in downtown Harrisburg, is opening this weekend.

Our managing editor Maddie Gittens has compiled a list of Harrisburg hidden gems that will help you turn any ordinary day around the city into a dreamy summer vacation.

PA Downtown Center held four public workshops this week, encouraging Harrisburg residents to weigh in on public space use and economic vitality as it puts together a plan for the city’s downtown revitalization. It will host a business owner focus group next month.

Jewish Federation of Greater Harrisburg leadership said it is listing the 6.4-acre Grass Campus for $8.3 million and will soon elect a new board of trustees.

Sara Bozich has compiled the best events of the weekend in her Weekend Roundup, including a Pride bar crawl, “Chase the Rainbow.” Check out the full list here.

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Harrisburg forester reminds residents of proper tree removal, planting process

June 26, 2026 | by Maddie Gittens

A row of large trees was removed this week from Muench Street, near Front Street.

When Harrisburg Forester Cody Legge heard concerns this week about a row of large trees coming down on Muench Street, near Front, he was actually encouraged by the engagement.

“It reminds me that there are at least a handful of residents in the city that still like having those large street trees,” he said. “I can respect that concern there.”

A row of large maple and oak trees was cut down this week alongside Tracy Mansion, which is being renovated by WebFX for use as additional office space for the tech company. Some residents took to social media to share concerns, while a few contacted Legge directly.

Ultimately, Legge said that the project received the proper permits and that most of the trees were invasive and showed signs of root rot and decline and interfered with power lines and sidewalks. The property owners agreed to plant new, native trees, he said.

So what is the proper process when it comes to tree removal and new plantings?

According to Legge, any work on trees located on the city’s right of way, mainly between the street and sidewalk, is subject to city approval. That work can include pruning, removing or planting trees, all of which require permits.

However, while city approvals are needed, the responsibility for the work ultimately falls to the property owner, who has to pay for and coordinate the work. The city does offer assistance to low-income and elderly property owners.

Residents who are interested in finding out if their tree, or any public tree in the city, is healthy can request a free inspection from the city forester, who will issue a report noting things like disease, pruning needs, etc.

There are good reasons to take a tree down, Legge said. If the tree is dying, sometimes recognizable by a lack of foliage and limbs breaking off, it should come down. Trees may also need to be removed if there are cavities in the trunk, fungal bodies, root rot and more.

The biggest problem causing trees in Harrisburg tend to be large invasive Bradford pears and Norway maples.

Non-permissible reasons to take a tree down include not wanting to rake leaves or being frustrated with squirrels getting on your roof.

“They’re still going to get up there,” Legge said.

To plant a tree, you also need permission. Legge usually recommends trees like redbuds or serviceberries. The city conducts two tree plantings each year, focusing on one neighborhood in the city at a time, at which time residents can request one at their property.

“My motto is native and then diversify,” he said.

Legge feels confident that new trees will be planted along Muench Street to replace the ones removed.

“I know doing them all at once was very jarring, but sometimes that’s what needs to happen,” he said. “It’s a sobering reminder that caring for young trees now is really important.”

To request a tree inspection, fill out the city’s online form, here. To contact the city forester, email [email protected].

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July 4th Food Truck Festival and summer music series coming to Harrisburg next week

June 26, 2026 | by Maddie Gittens

Fireworks over the Susquehanna River. File photo.

The popping of fireworks and banging of drums will ring out over Harrisburg starting next week.

The city on Friday announced its annual July 4^th Food Truck Festival, which will bring back fireworks after a year without, and the July Music Series at Reservoir Park.

“One of the greatest things about Harrisburg in the summer is that it gives us an opportunity to come together as a community,” said Mayor Wanda Williams.

The festival will take place on Saturday, July 4 in Riverfront Park from 1 to 9 p.m. and feature over 40 food trucks, live music, a wine/beer garden, petting zoo and free family activities. The evening will conclude with a 15-minute fireworks show, starting at 9:15 p.m., to celebrate the United States’ 250^th birthday.

“The July 4^th Food Truck Festival has become a tradition that residents look forward to each year,” Williams said. “It showcases local food vendors, supports small businesses and gives veterans a wonderful way to celebrate Independence day right here in the Pennsylvania capital city.”

Williams noted that any violence or illegal activity at the festival will not be tolerated and that the city will have a heavy police presence on site all day. Two years ago, the fireworks show was cut short due to police apprehending youth with firearms, which is why no fireworks happened last year.

Metered street parking is free for the holiday, parking on City Island, is $5, and the Market Square Garage, courtesy of Park Harrisburg, is offering $10 parking from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m.

Also starting on July 4, the July Music Series will kick off at the bandshell in Reservoir Park, presented by the city and Pop’s House.

Throughout the month, jazz, gospel, AfroSoul and local youth performers will take the stage. All shows are free to attend and families are encouraged to bring lawn chairs, blankets and coolers. Food trucks and vendors will be on site.

“Reservoir Park will be filled with wonderful performances that celebrate a wide variety or musical talents, cultures, and artistic traditions,” Williams said.

The music series schedule is as follows:

July 4—Scarlet Rose, Harrisburg Symphony Orchestra, Dred Scott, 6:30 to 9 p.m.
July 5—Mayor Williams’ Rising Star Youth Showcase, 6:30 to 9 p.m.
July 12—Gospel Night with Zak Williams and 1/Akord and HBA-Psalm A 34 The Sound of Praise, 6:30 to 9 p.m.
July 18—Jazz Under the Stars Festival with Pieces of a Dream, JJ Sansaverino & Art Sherrod Jr. and Wes Watkins & Jon Williams, 5 to 10 p.m.
July 25—AfroSoul Latino Festival with The Crank Crusaders featuring Raheem DeVaughn Yahzarah & Bootsy Vegas, The Singer’s Lounge, Hector Rosado & Orq Hache and Dwennimen African Dance Community and special guests, 5 to 10 p.m.
Sept. 11—Pop’s House pre-jazz fest mixer, Pink Palish and DJ Godfather, 8 p.m. to 12 a.m.

For more information about the July 4^th Food Truck Festival, visit Harrisburg’s website. For more information about the July Music Series, visit Explore HBG’s website.

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Downtown revitalization public workshops wrap; business owner focus group planned for next month

June 26, 2026 | by Alexandra Jones

Thursday’s afternoon economic vitality workshop

The PA Downtown Center held its last day of public workshops for Harrisburg’s downtown revitalization plan Thursday, wrapping up a week of public engagement on the effort.

The next step, according to the center’s special projects specialist Iris Quigley, will be analyzing the data compiled not just at the workshops, but earlier focus groups as well as a downtown perception survey distributed last winter.

“Pulling all these pieces together to have that roadmap,” Quigley said.

The plan to revitalize Harrisburg’s struggling downtown is a collaboration between city and state leaders, the Harrisburg Regional Chamber and CREDC, and the center, which is leading data collection on the effort.

A focus group next month will be held specifically for businesses. It will take place July 7 at 5 p.m. in the Historic Harrisburg Association building, where the center’s office is located.

“We want to have a very concentrated conversation about some of these barriers that you’re experiencing and see if we can unpack some of it,” Julie Fitzpatrick, the center’s executive director, told business owners at Thursday’s meeting at Sci Tech, which was centered around ways to activate the downtown’s economy.

Ideas by the more than 30 attendees at the afternoon workshop included a co-op grocery store and pharmacy, increased neighborhood gathering spaces and more spots to hear live music.

Julie Fitzpatrick, executive director of the PA Downtown Center

Several attendees suggested that adding more public bathrooms and family friendly restaurants downtown would make the area more easily navigable for families with young children and the elderly. Ideas about making roads easier to cross and adding better lighting across the city were also suggested.

Reconnecting the Walnut Street Bridge to the West Shore, damaged in the 1990s by a winter storm, was also suggested as a way to help activate the Susquehanna riverfront, as well as hosting more pop-up beer gardens and other events along the water.

“I think it’s the ‘Field of Dreams’ model, right? If we build it, they will come,” said attendee and Harrisburg city council member Rob Lawson.

Other workshops held by the center this week focused on quality of life and public spaces.

Funding for the revitalization project comes from the state Department of Community and Economic Development and the Intergovernmental Cooperation Authority.

Revitalization workshop

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Apothecary-themed bar with weekend tea service to open downtown this weekend

June 25, 2026 | by Alexandra Jones

General Manager Jermaine Crosson

Have an itch for something a bit different in downtown Harrisburg?

Then good news: Madame Rochéle’s Apothecary, a new cocktail bar and tea house, is opening this weekend.

A grand opening will take place from 4 p.m. through midnight Friday and on Saturday and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.

The apothecary is Justin Browning’s fifth business on the 200-block of N. 2nd Street, in addition to J.B. Lovedrafts, Nocturnal, Sawyers and Capital City Music Hall. It was inspired by fantasy books, games and films that Browning and his staff enjoy.

Its bar features an overhead menu offering “potions,” “elixirs,” “tinctures” and “tonics.” Options include drinks named “eternal youth,” “gentlemen’s remedy” and “botanists brew.’’

The opposite side of the former Tacos Amigos restaurant is decorated as a tea house lounge, full of plants, herb-filled glass jars, deep-green velvet couches and gold-framed mirrors that pop against patterned wallpaper.

Its general manager, Jermaine Crosson, said that the venue aims to offer people who don’t feel at home on the nightlife scene, or who prefer quieter or calmer venues, a place to hang out after hours. It also has a long list of non-alcoholic beverage options.

“You can come here with your friends that do or don’t drink,” said Crosson.

General Manager Jermaine Crosson

A Harrisburg native, Crosson has worked in hospitality for a decade as a server and bartender and worked at Nocturnal before being tapped for the apothecary’s general manager position.

“I was happy to be chosen to sort of expand downtown from the couple of bars that were down here. Now it’s getting much more lively,” Crosson said. “A bunch of new businesses are popping up. It’s just really nice to be considered to be a part of that.”

Browning said that he has gotten a good reaction about the laidback 21-plus venue since he announced the venture in March. He thinks people are “looking forward to something different.”

“It’s not a sports bar. It’s not a nightclub. It’s not a dive. It’s not so upscale that they can’t afford it,” Browning said.

Madame Rochele’s Apothecary bar

Crosson noted that the decor has already attracted passersby who’ve been looking in the windows.

“It seems like we have a lot of excited people that want to do the tea, want to do the cocktails,” Crosson said. “Everybody’s very excited about the grand scope of everything.”

Those interested in attending the apothecary’s opening weekend should make a reservation. To do so, contact [email protected].

Madame Rochele’s Apothecary is located at 200 N. 2nd St., Harrisburg. For more information, visit their Facebook page.

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Weekend Roundup with Sara Bozich

June 25, 2026 | by Sara Bozich

What you’ll find below:

For something new: Madame Rochéle’s Apothecary opens Friday; Chase the Rainbow Pride Bar Crawl on Saturday at 9 Downtown and Midtown locations! On Friday, local book release party at 611 Lounge.

Worth noting: SoMa! Block! Party! Tonight! Open Stage Gala on Sunday (I’m sad to miss it this year!). J&S Classics PA Speedweek at BAPS Motor Speedway on Sunday (I’m giving away tix on Instagram!).

Things on my agenda this weekend: Block party, and this will shock you, but more youth baseball (it’s tournament time – bring the ☀️ and catch me at concessions).

Thursday

SoMa Block Party! | Free | Harrisburg
SoMa Block Party 3-5 miler with Harrisburg Beer Runners | Free | Harrisburg
‘Revitalize Downtown Harrisburg’ Public Workshop at Harrisburg High School—SciTech Campus | Free | Harrisburg
The Unveiling of Helen’s Courtyard at Susquehanna Art Museum | Free | Harrisburg
Adams-Ricci Farmers Market | Free | Enola
Watch Party @ Harrisburg Beach Club | Free | Harrisburg
Open Mic & Jam | Thursdays | The Abbey Bar | Free | Harrisburg
James Taylor at GIANT Center | $ | Hershey
Sunset Frequencies – EDM Night at Harrisburg Beach Club | Free | Harrisburg

Friday

Margarita Fridays at Boneshire Brew Works | Free | Harrisburg
open mic at Consciousness Coffee | Free | Harrisburg
Bennett Run Mushroom Farm’s Free Mushroom Workshop at Fresh Market Hershey | Free | Hershey
Brewery Floats with Susquehanna Outfitters | $ | Mechanicsburg
Rock the Boat with Shea Quin Trio aboard The Pride of the Susquehanna | $ | Harrisburg
June Bottles and Book Club at Gruver Farms | Free | New Cumberland
Music Under the Stars at the Dickinson College Farm | $ | Carlisle
TGIF: Cycle Express Theme Ride- Made in PA at H2L Studio | $ | Mechanicsburg
Sunset Music and Movies Series: How to Train Your Dragon at Fort Hunter Park | Free | Harrisburg
Carlisle Summerfair | Free | Carlisle
Book Release Party with Jillian! at Lounge 611 | Free | Mechanicsburg
Hershey Symphony Presents ‘An American Salute’ – Free Outdoor Concert at Penn State Hershey Medical Center | Free | Hershey
Decked Out Live with Honeypump at The Vineyard at Hershey | $ | Middletown
POV Comedy Presents Jatty Robinson at The Abbey Bar | $ | Harrisburg
Live Music w/ Rich & Bubbly at Harrisburg Beach Club | Free | Harrisburg
Derek Henry at Horn Pub | Free | Lewisberry
Get Petty: A Tribute to Tom Petty at XL Live | Free | Harrisburg
Still Here, Still Proud, Still American at Capital City Music Hall | $ | Harrisburg
Santana & The Doobie Brothers at Hersheypark Stadium | $ | Hershey
Shrek The Musical KIDS at Open Stage | $ | Harrisburg
Latin Fuzion Fridayz at Level 2 | Harrisburg

Saturday

Saturday Morning Yoga at Boneshire Brew Works | $ | Harrisburg
Pollinator Day at Ashcombe | Free | Mechanicsburg
Sculpt with Steph C.: H2L & Gruver Farms Winery | $ | New Cumberland
Saturday Schedule: Group Fitness Classes at H2L Studio | $ | Mechanicsburg
Caribbean Carnival at Riverfront Park | Free | Harrisburg
6th Annual JavaPalooza in Downtown Hershey | Free | Hershey
Carlisle Summerfair | Free | Carlisle
Date Night: Dance– Salsa & Hustle at H2L Studio | $ | Mechanicsburg
CHASE THE RAINBOW – PRIDE BAR CRAWL at various locations | $ | Harrisburg
Taylor’s Story- A Tribute to Taylor Swift at Ned Smith Center | $ | Millersburg
The Harrisbird Cafe – A 2026 Songwriter Showcase (Kevin Neidig, Corinna Joy and Lucas Gienow) at The Mansion on Front | $ | Harrisburg
Marc Roberge of O.A.R.: A night of songs and storytelling at The Vineyard & Brewery at Hershey | $ | Middletown
Live Music w/ The Driftwood Saints at Harrisburg Beach Club | Free | Harrisburg
Strangest of Places Trio at Stealey’s Tavern | Free | Harrisburg
The After Hours EP Release Party at The Abbey Bar | $ | Harrisburg
United Champions Tour: Paul Oakenfold at XL Live | $ | Harrisburg
Broadway Rave at Tellus360 | $ | Lancaster
Hot in Herre: 2000s Dance Party at Capital City Music Hall | $ | Harrisburg
Foam Party at Sawyer’s | Free | Harrisburg
Ciroc Saturdays at Level 2 | Harrisburg
Brewery Tours: York City Walking Tour | $ | York
Brewery Tours: Cruise York County | $ | York
Brewery Tours: Lancaster City Walking Tour | $ | Lancaster
Brewery Tours: Lancaster City Walk-a-Bout! | $ | Lancaster
Shrek The Musical KIDS at Open Stage | $ | Harrisburg
EFF Live! at Open Stage | $ | Harrisburg
Celtic Fling & Highland Games at Mount Hope Estate | $ | Manheim

Sunday

Sunday Tea at the Willows at Ashcombe Mansion | $ | Mechanicsburg
Sunday Night Trivia at McGrath’s Pub | Free | Harrisburg
Sunday Guided Tours at Dills Tavern | $ | Dillsburg
Sunday Food Truck Night In SoMa at Agape Elixir Bar | Free | Harrisburg
Goddesses of Karma Drag Brunch: Divas of the Silver Screen | $ | Harrisburg
Blooms and Bubbles Mimosa Sunday at Gruver Farms | Free | New Cumberland
Carlisle Summerfair | Free | Carlisle
Sunday Guided Tours at Dills Tavern | $ | Dillsburg
Mud Day at Paulus Farm | $ | Mechanicsburg
PA Speedweek Parking Lot Party at Valley Green Beverage | Free | Etters
J&S CLASSICS PA SPEEDWEEK at BAPS Motor Speedway | $ | York Haven
Simply The Best – A Tribute to The Music of Tina Turner at West Shore Theatre | $ | New Cumberland
Live Music w/ Derek Henry at Harrisburg Beach Club | Free | Harrisburg
Dude Perfect at GIANT Center | $ | Hershey
Celtic Fling & Highland Games at Mount Hope Estate | $ | Manheim

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Harrisburg school board advances 2026-27 budget, with smaller property tax hike than initially proposed

June 24, 2026 | by Alexandra Jones

Marcia Stokes, chief financial officer

The Harrisburg school board advanced a $227.1 million budget with a proposed 1.5% property tax increase Tuesday.

The budget will be up for final approval at a board meeting next week.

The district’s Chief Financial Officer Marcia Stokes gave a budget presentation on the 2026-27 budget, with a 1.5% property tax hike—lower than the 3% initially proposed last month.

As long as the district gets an adequacy supplement from the state for the next five years, Stokes said, the district would be projected to have a balanced budget for the next five years with the smaller hike. And, if it does not receive the supplements (awarded annually), Stokes said, there are enough factors within board control to adjust the budget accordingly.

For a property assessed at $100,000, a 1.5% increase would mean the property owner’s bill would go up by $47.10 for the school portion of the property tax.

The district is waiting to officially adopt its budget until June 30, when the state’s budget is due to be passed. A substantial portion, 67%, of the district’s revenue comes from the commonwealth.

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Camp Curtin’s new leader presents middle school transformation plan to board

June 24, 2026 | by Alexandra Jones

Ryan Jones, new Camp Curtin principal

School district leadership proposed a plan to address middle school consolidation challenges at Harrisburg’s main middle school Tuesday night.

Two weeks ago, staff and teachers told the board that sending most of the district’s middle school students to Camp Curtin had been challenging. They complained that, as a result of the district’s planned closure of Rowland Academy, they’d been dealing with increased behavioral issues, like class disruption and physical aggression, and large classroom sizes.

But the building’s incoming principal, Ryan Jones, told the board Tuesday that he has been observing the school since he was tapped to lead it in May. He believes the issue isn’t the consolidation plan itself; it’s the lack of systems in place in the building to support it.

“There is an absence of procedures almost across the board,” Jones said.

The district official was last the principal of Marshall Math and Science Academy, a role he held for 12 years, serving in an acting capacity for the first five.

While his position as Camp Curtin principal officially begins in July, he said he has already established a leadership team and a plan for Camp Curtin.

He showed the board his five-year roadmap for the school.

“I don’t do anything without a plan,” he said.

The plan is informed by his experience operating Marshall, the district’s application-based magnet that takes about a fourth of its kids. It also acknowledges differences.

Camp Curtin Middle School sign

“You can’t operate Camp Curtin the same way that you would operate Math Science,” Jones said, acknowledging Marshall is a much larger school by design.

His plan proposes creating a two-school middle school system with four tracks overall. Marshall Math and Science Academy would be the track for the district’s STEM-focused students, he said. Camp Curtin would house the other three: business, arts and general education.

“We think about Camp Curtin as the ‘Camp Curtin Academy of Arts and Business,’” Jones proposed.

He thinks adding specialty tracks at the school would get students excited about learning again.

“By adding electives and giving students agency and choice, you offer them the opportunity to explore,” Jones said.

Such tracks would be implemented three to five years into his post, he said. But that is the vision he has in mind coming in.

As he and his leadership team navigate his first two years, they will lay the groundwork for the bigger change.

This includes changing the school’s master schedule to aim for 20 to 25 students per classroom next year. And implementing common planning time for teachers in the same grade bands so they can discuss common students.

The plan also moves classrooms around in the school to better keep grade levels together in newly designated ‘zones’ of the building, so they don’t have to cross paths. The new building zones will also better support safety monitoring during transition times, he said.

“There’s no reason for other grade levels to cross paths,” he said.

What’s more, he’s implementing discipline systems that focuses on reflection, teacher-student conversation, and student accountability.

“Discipline when done right is a proactive thing, not a reactive thing,” Jones said.

Board president Roslyn Copeland

While the team does anticipate some difficult behaviors, he emphasized that his administrative team is built of professionals equipped and experienced to handle it.

Multiple board members thanked Jones for the comprehensive presentation.

Board member Doug Thompson-Leader pointed out that Jones’ former assistant principal at Marshall, Amy Grab, will be assuming the top post there, giving the district an advantage. As close collaborators, the educators will help the district as it moves forward with the two-school middle school plan, he said.

Board member Annie Hughes, meanwhile, asked where the most likely points of failure for the plan would be.

“Loss of staff,” Jones said.

Board members also questioned if teachers and parents felt comfortable with the plan. Jones said he plans to talk to both groups further and will invite district parents to hear a similar presentation this summer.

The board will vote on whether or not to close Rowland Academy next week. The district completed phasing middle school students out of the building by sending them to Camp Curtin earlier this month.

The middle school consolidation effort is a district plan that began under state receivership in 2023, designed to save money on faculty and facilities.

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Pennsylvania Leads Charge in Record-Setting Q1 for Online Casinos

June 24, 2026 | by Admin

America’s online casino revenue reached a record high in the first quarter of 2026. Pennsylvania was at the forefront.

First, the record, as the seven states with legalized online casinos combined for $3.04 billion in revenue from January to March. That’s more than a 20% increase compared to last year’s $2.52 billion first quarter by the same seven states.

Now, onto Pennsylvania’s impact.

Considered the standard of regulated online casino states, Pennsylvania online casinos were very busy to begin the year. Powered by $331 million worth of revenue in March, PA online casinos generated a $948 million Q1.

It’s part of a larger trend in which online casinos are rising, while sports betting’s future grows murkier.

Online Casinos are a Stable Revenue Source for PA

With online casinos, particularly in Pennsylvania, maturity has made them more reliable. Apps are better, there are always new games, and promotions are becoming increasingly personalized. It helps that online casinos are available year-round.

There’s a reason that other jurisdictions such as Virginia, Washington, D.C., and Maine have recently explored or approved legal online casinos within their borders. Online casino revenue is predictable.

The same can’t be said for sports betting, which deals with seasonality and competition.

With sports betting, game outcomes can affect revenue. Further, which sports are in season has a major impact on people’s betting habits. In a state like Pennsylvania, with so many passionate fan bases, a team’s success, or lack thereof, is another key factor.

When a team, such as Penn State in 2025, is struggling to win, people are less likely to bet on them. However, those same people could simply use an online casino instead, especially since so many of the PA’s online sportsbooks also operate online casino platforms. Most Pennsylvanians have easy access to an online casino if they wager on sports.

Then, there are the many prediction markets also cutting into traditional sports betting revenue. Although they may soon go by the wayside, prediction markets have added another way to put money on sports. Prediction markets also allow wagers on many other events, like the weather, video game release dates, and more, that sportsbooks don’t.

At the end of the day, the numbers show that Pennsylvanians are heavily drawn to online casinos. The result is hundreds of millions in tax revenue that’s helping the state and setting an example for others that may want to follow suit.

Even though 2026’s Q1 ended with a record-setting revenue total, many predictions expect even more online casino revenue from Pennsylvania in 2026.

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