Farro and Away: This meatless dish got a thumbs up from the household carnivore.

January 31, 2020 | by Rosemary Ruggieri Baer

Here in the depth of winter, I have been searching for some healthy dishes that focus on whole grains and vegetables to serve for dinner at least one night a week.

I am highly attached to pasta, and I never met a mound of mashed potatoes I didn’t like. But, in an attempt to add some lighter and meatless options for our evening menu rotation, I found a wonderful dish that stars farro (instead of pasta), asparagus and mushrooms. I made it one evening along with some fruit, which countered the richness of the butter and cheese. The recipe is from “Giada’s Italy,” the newest cookbook from the famous chef and author Giada De Laurentiis.

Farro is what is referred to as an “ancient grain.” To me, it looks a lot like barley. It has a chewy, nutty flavor, is not hard to cook, and can be found in most grocery stores. It is best to rinse farro before cooking in salted water or broth, and after that, all that is really needed is a tossing with good olive oil or butter and a little grated cheese. Serve it instead of rice or potatoes. The recipe that follows is more involved, but I thought it was delicious and worth the effort. I would serve it to company.

Mushroom and Asparagus Farrotto

Ingredients

2 leeks, white and tender green parts only
4 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
10 ounces mushrooms, sliced
2 garlic cloves, smashed and peeled
½ teaspoon kosher salt (or to taste)
1 cup farro, rinsed and drained
1 cup dry white wine
3 cups low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
½ cup freshly grated Pecorino Romano cheese
2/3 cup freshly grated Parmesan Reggiano cheese (plus extra for serving)
¼ cup (½ stick) unsalted butter
½ pound asparagus, trimmed and cut into segments about 1½ inches long

Directions

Cut the trimmed leeks in half lengthwise. Then cut them across into half -moons. Rinse under running water and drain well. (Leeks can be very sandy.)
Heat a sauté pan over medium-high heat. Add 2 tablespoons of olive oil and heat for another 30 seconds. Add the mushrooms and cook, stirring often until they are golden brown and the liquid is evaporated. Remove the mushrooms to a plate.
Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of oil and the sliced leeks and cook until soft and fragrant, about 3 minutes. Add the garlic and salt and cook for 1 more minute.
Add the farro to the pan and stir to coat the grains in the oil, toasting them slightly.
Stir in the wine, cooking until it is almost completely absorbed, about 8 minutes. Begin adding the broth in 1-cup increments, cooking each addition down until each has evaporated. (This is very similar to cooking risotto.) Stir the farro often until it is creamy. This will take a total of about 45 minutes.
When the farro is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed, add the cheeses and butter. Continue to stir a little longer.
Fold in the asparagus and mushrooms and heat for another 2 minutes.
Serve in pasta bowls with more grated cheese.

The next time I make this, I am planning to substitute broccoli florets or baby peas for the asparagus. Small cubes of butternut squash would work too, as would a touch of chopped sundried tomatoes.

Now this dish takes more time than baking a few chicken breasts in the oven. But try it on a weekend and remember—it’s your whole dinner in one dish. Some sliced apples and navel oranges are a great finish. Don’t forget some nicely chilled white wine.

I tried this on “Mr. I like steaks and chops,” and it was well received! I hope to toss in a few “just soup for dinner” nights and maybe some main dish salads. Now, I just have to find a way to sneak in some eggplant!

Happenings: Our February Calendar of Events

January 31, 2020 | by Missy Smith

Museums & Art Spaces

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

“Age of Aquarius,” featuring unique vehicles that were manufactured and marketed in America from about 1967 through the early mid-1970s, through April 26

“To Protect and Serve: Pennsylvania State Police Museum Exhibit, through May 6

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

“Figuratively Speaking” winter membership exhibit, an eclectic mix of AAH members’ takes on the human form, through Feb. 13

“Bootleg Meets R76,” a collaboration between artists Charles Feathers and Reina “R76” Wooden, Feb. 21 to March 26; reception, Feb. 21, 5-8 p.m.

“Hear Me,” featuring deaf artists from around Pennsylvania, co-curated by Arielle Mabsoute and Linda Price, Feb. 21 to March 26; reception, Feb. 21, 5-8 p.m.

BrainVessel Gallery
4707 Carlisle Pike, Mechanicsburg
717-350-2306; bvcargo.com

“Faunae,” an art show by Jon Carraher, through Feb. 14

“Unbridled Visions,” an art show by Stuart Leask, Feb. 21-22

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

“On Thin Ice,” fifth annual exhibit featuring artists’ take on the theme, with artwork in a variety of media and style, through Feb. 1

The Cornerstone Coffeehouse
2133 Market St., Camp Hill
717-737-5026; thecornerstonecoffeehouse.com

Artist of the Month: Alana Ricords

Dickinson College
The Goodyear Gallery
595 W. Louther St., Carlisle
717-254-8044; dickinson.edu/coa

“A Decade of Art: Celebrating the Sylvia J. Smith ’73 Artist-in-Residence Program,” an exhibit of artwork by 11 artists who have been part of Dickinson’s artist-in-residence program, through Feb. 22.

“Arts Collective Juried Exhibition,” this exhibit highlights student works selected by a guest juror, Feb. 7-14; reception Feb. 7, 5-7 p.m.

Dickinson College
The Trout Gallery
240 W. High St., Carlisle
717-254-8159; troutgallery.org

“Manifestation and Adaptation: Variations in Buddhist Sculpture Across Asia,” an exhibit curated by Dickinson student Bizz Fretty working with faculty members, through Feb. 1

“Imaging the Divine: Religious Mythology and Art,” an exhibit of works from the museum’s permanent collection curated by Dickinson student Abbie Cottle, Feb. 7-April 4; Feb. 7, 5-7 p.m.

“Abstract Impressions: Postwar Japanese Prints from the DePauw University Permanent Art Collection,” through Feb. 15

“Framing Space—Depictions of Land, City and Sea,” an exhibit exploring the concept of represented and perceived space, Feb. 28-April 1; reception: Feb. 28, 5-7 p.m.

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

“Winterfest at the Gallery,” art and fine craft display, through Feb. 29

Hershey Area Art Association (HAAA)
hersheyareaartassociation.com

Backstage at the Allen Theatre Café, Feb. 1-March 31

Valentine Art Show at Hershey Gardens, Feb. 15-17

Historical Society of Dauphin County
John Harris-Simon Cameron Mansion
219 S. Front St., Harrisburg
717-233-3462; dauphincountyhistory.org

“100th Anniversary of the Treaty of Versailles,” Vance McCormick’s role as chair of the American delegation, through spring

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

“Night, Desert, Garden,” paintings by Matthew Doll, Feb. 7-March 13

Metropolis Collective
17 W. Main St., Mechanicsburg
717-458-8245; metropoliscollective.com

“A Wintry Mix 5,” group art show, through Feb. 20

The Millworks

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

New works by Pamela Black, Averill Shepps, Susan Bailey, Judy Kelly, Tara Chickey and Marsha Souders, through Feb. 16

New works by Ann Benton Yeager, Christine Goldbeck, Julie Iaria, Kristen Fava, Mary Gelenser and Jovana Sarver, Feb. 11-March 15

National Civil War Museum
One Lincoln Circle, Harrisburg
717-260-1861; nationalcivilwarmuseum.org

“Boots and Saddles: Horses in the Civil War,” through June 7

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

“Nature’s Palette,” a group exhibit of Perry County Council of the Arts’ member artists’ work that interprets nature’s various hues and shades, through May 9; reception: Feb. 29, 1-4 p.m.

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
Landis House, 67 N. 4th St., Newport
717-567-7023; perrycountyarts.org

“Perry Portraits” exhibit of historic figures in celebration of Perry County’s bicentennial, Feb. 7-March 20; reception: Feb. 7, 5:30-7:30 p.m.

“Nature’s Palette,” a group exhibition of Perry County Council of the Arts’ member artists’ work that interprets nature’s hues and shades, through May 9; reception: Feb. 29, 1-4 p.m., at Ned Smith Center for Nature and Art

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

“Kenya in Focus,” travel photography by Irene VanBuskirk, Feb. 7-April 4; reception: Feb. 7, 5:30-7:30 p.m.

Rose Lehrman Art Gallery
One HACC Dr., Harrisburg
717-231-ROSE; hacc.edu/RLAC

Paintings by Peter Van Dyck, Feb. 24-March 19; reception: March 19, 5:30 p.m.

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

“Picturing a More Perfect Union—Violet Oakley’s Mural Studies for the Pennsylvania Senate Chamber, 1911-1919,” through April 26

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

“Many Visions, Many Versions—Art From Indigenous Communities in India,” works by contemporary artists from four major indigenous artistic traditions in India, Feb. 8-May 10

“Explore: Found Objects,” an investigation of how historic and contemporary artists utilize found objects in their work, through Feb. 15

“SHIFT,” featuring the work of contemporary painters Tiffany Calvert and Alex Kanevsky, through Feb. 16

“Flashpoints—Material/Intent/Fused,” four artists explore a wide range of materials and processes linked through craft and meaning, Feb. 21-April 26

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

“Danny Lyon: Memories of the Southern Civil Rights Movement,” through March 22

The Ware Center
42 N. Prince St., Lancaster
717-871-2308; artsmu.com

Semi-realistic and abstract paintings by Caesar Westbrook, with subjects that tie into daily social and political issues, Feb. 7-28

Zeroday Brewing Co.
250 Reily St., Harrisburg
717-745-6218; zerodaybrewing.com

Art gallery by Joanna Pendergast, through Feb. 20

Art gallery by Marina Randovic, Feb. 21-March 19

Read, Make, Learn

Boutique on Pomfret
16 W. Pomfret St., Carlisle
717-347-7594; facebook.com/boutiqueonpomfret

Feb. 13: VIP Essential Oil Continuing Education, 5-6 p.m.

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

Feb. 3-March 2: Yoga & Art (ages 8-12), Mondays, 4-5:30 p.m.
Feb. 4-18: Crash Course—Lidded Vessels, Tuesdays, 6:30-8:30 p.m.
Feb. 5-26: Beginning Watercolor, Wednesdays, 1-3 p.m.
Feb. 5-26: Watercolor Landscapes, Wednesdays, 3:30-6 p.m.
Feb. 7: ICE FEST! Snowflakes & Glass Valentines, 6-8 p.m.
Feb. 8: Winter Drawing Workshop, 10 a.m.-3 p.m.
Feb. 8: ICE FEST! Snowflakes & Glass Valentines, 12:30-2:30 p.m.
Feb. 8: Make Your Valentines POP! (ages 6-12), 10:30 a.m.-12 p.m.
Feb. 11: Lecture—Warrior Artists, 6:30 p.m.
Feb. 13-27: Knitting II—Working in the Round + Cables, Thursdays, 6-8 p.m.
Feb. 15: Eucalyptus Magic, 9-11 a.m.
Feb. 19-March 11: Create Amazing Pictures with Your Phone Camera, Wednesdays, 6:30-8 p.m.
Feb. 20-March 26: Photoshop for Photographers Using Lightroom Classic, Thursdays, 6:30-8 p.m.
Feb. 21: Craft Beer & Clay, 7 p.m.
Feb. 22: Gallery Exploration—Don’t Be Blue, 10:30 a.m.-12 p.m.
Feb. 25-March 31: Fundamentals of Photography, Wednesdays, 10:30 a.m.-12 p.m.

The Cornerstone Coffeehouse
2133 Market St., Camp Hill
717-737-5026; thecornerstonecoffeehouse.com

Feb. 7: Party in the French Quarter, 6:30-9:30 p.m.
Feb. 14: Valentine’s Day Dinner, 6:30-9:30 p.m.
Feb. 28: Hearty Winter Soups, 6:30-9:30 p.m.

The Clarke Forum for Contemporary Issues
Dickinson College
360 W. Louther St., Carlisle (Anita Tuvin Schlechter Auditorium)
717-245-1875; clarke.dickinson.edu

Feb. 6: “How to be an Antiracist” with author and historian Ibram X. Kendi, 7 p.m.
Feb. 18: “An Anticipatory Memoir: Aging on the Diagonal” lecture by Dickinson President Emeritus Bill Durden, 7 p.m.
Feb. 19: “From Community Engagement to the Good Society,” a lecture by Randy Stoecker of the University of Wisconsin, 7 p.m.
Feb. 24: “Psychedelics: Science, Medicine and Politics,” a lecture about the politics of psychedelic research by Rick Doblin of the Multidisciplinary Association for Psychedelic Studies.
Feb. 26: “Protests Around the World,” a panel discussion with Dickinson professors with expertise in the Middle East, 7 p.m.

East Shore Area Library
4501 Ethel St., Harrisburg
717-652-9380; dcls.org

Feb. 8: World Beats, 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
Feb. 11: Hari Jones—Hidden Histories Program, The American Civil War, A War for Freedom
Feb. 18: Job Seeker Resources, 1-2:30 p.m.
Feb. 21: Device Club, 1-2:30 p.m.
Feb. 25: Friends of East Shore Area Library Meeting, 9:30-11:15 a.m.

Elizabethtown Public Library
10 S. Market St., Elizabethtown
717-367-7467; etownpubliclibrary.org

Feb. 1, 15: Cards & Coffee, 10 a.m.-12 p.m.
Feb. 4, 11, 18, 25: Cards & Coffee, 9:15-10:30 a.m.
Feb. 4, 11, 18, 25: Crazy 8s Math Club, 4:30-5:30 p.m.
Feb. 4, 11, 18, 25: Evening Cards & Coffee, 6:30-8 p.m.
Feb. 5, 12, 19, 26: Baby Time, 9:15 a.m.
Feb. 5, 12, 19, 26: Toddler Time, 10:30 a.m.
Feb. 6, 13, 20, 27: Family Storytime, 10:30 a.m.
Feb. 7: Taste Event, 4:30-9 p.m.
Feb. 13, 27: Community Knitters, 6 p.m.
Feb. 15: Book Discussion Group, 9:15 a.m.
Feb. 15: Community Knitters, 11 a.m.
Feb. 25: Healthy Bites with Giant Food Stores, 10:30 a.m.

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

Feb. 3, 17: The Plot Twisters (ages 15-18), 6:30 p.m.
Feb. 4: Teen Homeschool Hangout, 10 a.m.
Feb. 7: Youth Chess Night, 6:30 p.m.
Feb. 4: Curl up with the Classics—“A Farewell to Arms,” 10 a.m.
Feb. 5: Moving Forward Book Group w/ Hospice of Central PA, 1 p.m.
Feb. 6, 20: Blood Pressure Screenings w/ UPMC Pinnacle, 11 a.m.-1 p.m.
Feb. 9: Lincoln’s Search for the Right General, 1:30 p.m.
Feb. 10: Twisted Stitchers Knitting Group, 6:30 p.m.
Feb. 13, 27: Drop In Family Story Time—All About Feelings, 6:30 p.m.
Feb. 14: Foreign Film Friday—Like Water for Chocolate, 2 and 7 p.m.
Feb. 16: Game Day for All, 1:30 p.m.
Feb. 20: READ to Dogs, 6:30 p.m.
Feb. 21: Family Movie Night, 6:30 p.m.
Feb. 24: Fredricksen Reads—“Where the Crawdads Sing,” 7 p.m.
Feb. 25: American Girl Book Club (ages 8-12), 5:30 p.m.

Harrisburg Career Professional Executives Networking Group
777 W. Harrisburg Pike, Middletown
717-575-4114; cpengroup.wildapricot.org

Feb. 18: Monthly meeting, 6-8 p.m.

Harrisburg Improv Theatre
1633 N. 3rd St., Harrisburg
hbgimprov.com

Feb. 2-March 8: 6-Week Elective—Improv to Sketch, Sundays, 12-3 p.m.

Hershey Area Art Association (HAAA)
hersheyart.org

Feb. 5-March 25: Realistic Oil Painting, Wednesdays, 12:30-3:30 p.m.

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

Feb. 1, 15: Chess Club, 1:30 p.m.
Feb. 1: Friend’s Winter Film Series: “The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel,” 2 p.m.
Feb. 4: Teen Reader’s Café, 3 p.m.
Feb. 4, 5, 11, 12, 25, 26: 1, 2, Whee!, 10 a.m.
Feb. 4, 6, 11, 13, 18, 20, 25, 27: Penn State Hershey—Mothers & Babies Together,10 a.m.
Feb. 4, 11, 18, 25: Girls Who Code, 6 p.m.
Feb. 5: LEGO Club, 4 p.m.
Feb. 5: LEGO League, 6 p.m.
Feb. 5, 12, 26: Sensory 1, 2, Whee!, 11 a.m.
Feb. 5, 12, 19, 26: Tween Lounge, 3 p.m.
Feb. 6, 13, 20, 27: Teen Lounge, 4 p.m.
Feb. 7: “To All the Boys I’ve Loved Before” Valentine’s Watch Party, 3 p.m.
Feb. 7, 21: Play Day for Families, 10 a.m.
Feb. 7, 14, 21, 28: Dungeons and Dragons, 3 p.m.
Feb. 8: Friend’s Winter Film Series: “Bottle Shock,” 2 p.m.
Feb. 9: Franklin D. Roosevelt—An Arsenal of Democracy (Friends Adult Program), 2 p.m.
Feb. 15: Friend’s Winter Film Series—“Tortilla Soup,” 2 p.m.
Feb. 16: I, Nat Love (Friends Children’s Program), 2 p.m.
Feb. 22: Rm #2 Chess Cub, 1:30 p.m.
Feb. 22: HR: Friend’s Winter Film Series—”Tea with Mussolini,” 2 p.m.
Feb. 23: An Afternoon of Jazz Featuring Abe Ovadia (Friends Adult Program), 2 p.m.
Feb. 24: Books and Babies, 9:30 a.m. and 10:30 am.
Feb. 24: Blood Drive, 3 p.m.

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

Feb. 3, 10, 17, 24: English Conversation Group, 6:30-8 p.m.
Feb. 3, 17: Monday Morning Board Games, 10 a.m.-12 p.m.
Feb. 4: Tabletop Games, 6-8 p.m.
Feb. 6: Learn to Knit/Crochet, 7-8 p.m.
Feb. 6, 13, 20, 27: Mah Jongg, 10 a.m.-1 p.m.
Feb. 10: iPad/iPhone Beginners, 1-3 p.m.
Feb. 11, 18: Tea & Stitches, 10 a.m.-12 p.m.
Feb. 12: Mad About Mysteries, 7-8 p.m.
Feb. 17: Monday Night Book Club, 7-8 p.m.
Feb. 19: Sci Fi Book Club, 7-9 p.m.
Feb. 20: Thursday Morning Book Club, 10-11 a a.m.
Feb. 25: Tea & Stitches, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.
Feb. 26: Apple Users Group, 1-3 p.m.
Feb. 26: Yoga for Beginners, 7-8 p.m.

Kline Library
530 S. 29th St., Harrisburg
717-234-3934; dcls.org

Feb. 4: World Beats, 6-7 p.m.
Feb. 6: Dollar-Smart Deductions, 6:30-7:30 p.m.
Feb. 20: Dollar-Smart Deductions, 1-2 p.m.
Feb. 20: Friends of Kline Library Meeting, 6:30-8 p.m.
Feb. 26: Knit 1, Crochet Too!, 6-8 p.m.

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

Feb. 1, 8, 15, 22, 29: Passageways, 2-4 p.m.
Feb. 2, 9, 16, 23: Common Roads Young Adult, 4-6 p.m.
Feb. 5, 12, 19, 26: Common Roads Youth, 6-8 p.m.
Feb. 16: Young Adult Group—Speed Friending, 4-6 p.m.

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

Feb. 24: Beginner Ballroom Dance Lessons, 5:30 p.m.
Feb. 24: Advanced Ballroom Dance Lessons, 6:30 p.m.

Madeline L. Olewine Memorial Library
2410 North 3rd St., Harrisburg
717-232-7286; dcls.org

Feb. 1: Harrisburg Genealogy Workshop, 10 a.m.-2 p.m.
Feb. 3, 10, 24: Video Game Club, 4-5 p.m.
Feb. 18: Hari Jones—Hidden Histories Program—The American Civil War, A War for Freedom, 6-7 p.m.
Feb. 24: Cookbook Book Club—Red Ingredients, 6-7 p.m.

McCormick Riverfront Library
101 Walnut St., Harrisburg
717-234-4976; dcls.org

Feb. 4: McCormick Riverfront Library
Feb. 5, 12, 19, 26: Mid-Day Getaway, 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m.
Feb. 21: Hack that Painting, 6-8 p.m.

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

Feb. 3, 10, 17, 24: STEM Club 5:30-7:30 p.m.
Feb. 4, 11, 18, 25: Storytime and Craft 10:30-11:30a.m.
Feb. 4, 11, 18, 25: Tales with T.A.I.L.S. 6-7 p.m.
Feb. 4, 18, 25: Family Yoga 6-7 p.m.
Feb. 6: Book Club 6-7 p.m.
Feb. 6, 13, 20, 27: LEGO Junior Maker Club 6-7 p.m.
Feb. 17: Mystery Book Club 6-7 p.m.

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

Feb. 1: An Evening with David W. Blight, 5-7 p.m.
Feb. 7, 14, 28: Nathaniel Gadsden’s Spoken Word Café, 7-9 p.m.
Feb. 8: An Evening with Marcia Chatelain Franchise, 5-7 p.m.
Feb. 15: An Evening with Donna Jackson Nakazawa, 5-7 p.m.
Feb. 21: An Evening with Dan Pfeiffer, 7-9 p.m.
Feb. 25: An Evening with Emma Copley Eisenberg, 7-9 p.m.

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

Feb. 1: Advanced Fluid Art, 12-2:30 p.m.
Feb. 1: First Saturday, 2-5 p.m.
Feb. 7: Acrylic Abstract Workshop, 9 a.m.-3:30 p.m.
Feb. 12: Art & Brew Crawl, 6-9 p.m.
Feb. 27: Sip and Stitch, 6-9 p.m.

The Movement Center
2134 N. 2nd St., Harrisburg
717-238-0357; themovementcenter.net

Feb. 9: Free Community Yoga Class, 10 a.m.

New Cumberland Public Library
1 Benjamin Plaza, New Cumberland
717-774-7820; newcumberlandlibrary.org

Feb. 1: LEGO Madness, 10:30-11:30 a.m.
Feb. 3, 17: Monday Great Books Discussion Group, 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
Feb. 4: Tales for T.A.I.L.S., 6:30-7:30 p.m.
Feb. 6: Ruth’s Mystery Discussion Group, 10:15 a.m.-12 p.m.
Feb. 7, 14, 21, 28: Children’s Music Class, 10:30-11 a.m.
Feb. 8: Valentine Craft—Crayon Heart Mobile, 10:30 a.m.-12 p.m.
Feb. 8: Write-On Writer’s Workshop, 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
Feb. 11: Book Review Program—“Our Founding Fathers in Pennsylvania Cemetaries,” 10:30-11:30 a.m.
Feb. 12, 26: Wednesday Great Books Discussion group, 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
Feb. 13: Holiday Storytime—Valentine’s Day, 10:30-11:30 a.m.
Feb. 13: Adult Craft—Origami Flower, 6:30 p.m.
Feb. 15: Couponing for Extreme Savings, 11 a.m.-12 p.m.
Feb. 15: Children’s Book Writers Critique Group, 2-4 p.m.
Feb. 18, 25: Book Babies Storytime, 11:15 a.m.
Feb. 24: 123 Library! Family Storytime, 6:30 p.m.
Feb. 26: PennWriters Writing Group, 6-9 p.m.

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

Feb. 1: Valentine’s Basket Workshop for Kids, 9 a.m.-12 p.m.
Feb. 1: Drop-In Art, 1-4 p.m.

The State Library of Pennsylvania
400 North St., Harrisburg
717-783-5950, statelibrary.pa.gov

Feb. 6: Book Club Meeting, 1 p.m.
Feb. 20: Finding your African American Ancestors, 11 a.m.-2 p.m.

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

Feb. 7: StoryTime—“Max and the Tag-Along Moon,” 10:30-11:30 a.m.
Feb. 13: Curiosity Kids—Native American Clothing, 11:30 a.m.-12 p.m.
Feb. 16: “Picturing a More Perfect Union” Tour, 2 p.m.
Feb. 21: Learn at Lunch—Violet Oakley Senate Chamber Murals, 12:15-12:45 p.m.
Feb. 27: Nature Lab—Wild Cats of Pennsylvania, 11:30 a.m.-12 p.m.

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

Feb. 8, 15, 22, 29: Saturday Morning Art Club (ages 4-7), 10 a.m.-12 p.m.
Feb. 8, 15, 22, 29: Young Artist Camp, 10 a.m.-12 p.m.
Feb. 19: Life Drawing Class, 6-9 p.m.

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

Feb. 8: Kids Discover—Owls, 1:30-3 p.m.
Feb. 11: Winter Lecture Series Spotlight on PA State Species—Ruffed Grouse, 7-8:30 p.m.
Feb. 13-March 26: Fly-Tying Classes, 6-8 p.m.
Feb. 15: Great Backyard Bird Count, 10 a.m.-1 p.m.
Feb. 19: Preschool Storytime—Winter at Wildwood, 10-10:45 a.m.
Feb. 22: Full Cadettes—Night Owl, 10 a.m.-1:30 p.m.
Feb. 25: Winter Lecture Series Spotlight on PA State Species—Eastern Hellbender, 7-8:30 p.m.

William H. & Marion C. Alexander Family Library
200 W. Second St., Hummelstown
717-566-0949; dcls.org

Feb. 4: Novel Thoughts Book Club, 6:30-8 p.m.
Feb. 6: Teen Night—The Chocolate Wars, 6-7 p.m.
Feb. 12: 2nd Wednesday Cinema, 6-8 p.m.
Feb. 13: World Beats, 6-7 p.m.
Feb. 18: Novel Thoughts Too Book Club, 1-3 p.m.
Feb. 24: Protecting Family—Guardianship, Estate Planning, and You (for Seniors), 1:30-2:20 p.m.

Winters Heritage House Museum
41-47 E. High St., Elizabethtown
717-367-4672; elizabethtownhistory.org

Feb. 7: Story Hour, 9:30 a.m., 10:45 a.m., 1 p.m.

Yoga at Simply Well
28 S. Pitt St., Carlisle
717-968-0167; yogaatsimplywell.com

Feb. 2-23: Restore Your Core Level 1, Sundays, 2-3:30 p.m.
Feb. 5-26: Restore Your Core Level 1, Sundays, 2-3:30 p.m.
Feb. 7: Amrit Yoga Nidra, 7-8:30 p.m.
Feb. 22: The Mindful Classroom—Tips and Strategies for Teachers, 12-1:30 p.m.

Live Music

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

Feb. 6: Refugee—The Ultimate Tom Petty Tribute Band
Feb. 7: Little River Band, Pure Prairie League
Feb. 8: Blue Oyster Cult
Feb. 15: The Spinners, Darlene Love
Feb. 21: 50s Dance Party with the music of Buddy Holly. The Big Bopper & Ritchie Valens
Feb. 22: Scotty McCreery
Feb. 28: Rick Nelson Remembered

Appalachian Brewing Co./Abbey Bar
50 N. Cameron St., Harrisburg
717-221-1083; abcbrew.com

Feb. 1: The Big Takeover
Feb. 8: Jazz is Phish
Feb. 9: Missy Raines Quartet
Feb. 14: The Dirty Sweet
Feb. 20: Altan
Feb. 21: Fletcher’s Grove
Feb. 22: Starwood, Knitebitch, Big Gorgeous, Free Music Orchestra
Feb. 28-29: Millennium Music Conference

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

Feb. 7: Jazz in the City
Feb. 15: York Symphony Orchestra—“Rhapsody in Blue”
Feb. 16: JJ Grey & Mofro
Feb. 21: Paris Washboard
Feb. 25: Million Dollar Quartet
Feb. 29: Plena Libre

Blair Music Center, Lutz Recital Hall
Lebanon Valley College
101 College Ave., Annville
717-233-8668; lvc.edu

Feb. 1: Honors Band
Feb. 5: John Protopapas
Feb. 8: Honors Choir Concert with Chamber Choir
Feb. 22: Chanticleer
Feb. 25: Common Hour Jazz
Feb. 27: Luke Lee

Boneshire Brew Works
7462 Derry St., Harrisburg
717-469-5007; boneshire.com

Feb. 13: The Rubber Hose Duo
Feb. 27: Zach King

Carley’s Ristorante and Piano Bar
204 Locust St., Harrisburg
717-909-9191; carleysristorante.com

Feb. 1, 5, 13, 22: Roy Lefevre
Feb. 4, 11, 14, 18, 27: Noel Gevers
Feb. 6, 20, 23: Anthony Haubert
Feb. 7: Andrea Britton and Noel Gevers
Feb. 8: Corinna Joy and Noel Gevers
Feb. 12, 25: Natalie Ness
Feb. 15, 21: Ted Ansel
Feb. 19: Christine Purcell
Feb. 26: Andrea Britton

Carlisle Theatre
44 West High St., Carlisle
717-258-0666; carlisletheatre.org

Feb. 15: Tusk, The Ultimate Fleetwood Mac Tribute

Chameleon Club
223 N. Water St., Lancaster
717-299-9684; chameleonclub.net

Feb. 1: Kix, Dirty Harry, Arms and Sleepers
Feb. 5: The Iron Maidens
Feb. 7: Tweed
Feb. 8: Huntingdons, TAUK
Feb. 14: Flux Capacitor
Feb. 15: Jimmie’s Chicken Shack
Feb. 16: The Blue Stones
Feb. 19: Steve Harris—British Lion
Feb. 20: Black Lips
Feb. 22: Summer Salt
Feb. 23: Lucero
Feb. 27: Grayscale
Feb. 28: We Were Promised, Jetpacks
Feb. 29: Parks & Wreck Fest 3

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

Feb. 1: All Time Low
Feb. 7: Misterwives
Feb. 8: Magical Mystery Doors
Feb. 21: Trampled by Turtles
Feb. 22: Appetite For Destruction w/ Maiden America & Shout At The Devil
Feb. 28: Christone “Kingfish” Ingram
Feb. 29: Observe The 93rd, Tubey Frank, Single By Sunday, Glasgow, Scotland, The Great Enough, The Stonewall Vessels

The Cornerstone Coffeehouse
2133 Market St., Camp Hill
717-737-5026; thecornerstonecoffeehouse.com

Feb. 1: Dominick Cicco
Feb. 2: Jessica Rife
Feb. 7: Antonio Andrade
Feb. 8: Doug Morris
Feb. 9: Shelba Purtle
Feb. 14: Michael Arthur
Feb. 15: Shoot The Moon
Feb. 16: Allan Combs II
Feb. 21: Paul Zavinsky
Feb. 22: Hard Travelin’
Feb. 23: Chicken and Waffles

Dickinson College Music Department
240 W. High St., Carlisle (Rubendall Recital Hall)
717-245-1568; dickinson.edu/music

Feb. 7: Helen Kim and Sakiko Ohashi
Feb. 22: Jonathan Hays and Craig Ketter
Feb. 28: Dickinson College Artist-in-Residence

Harrisburg Symphony Orchestra
The Forum at 5th and Walnut St., Harrisburg
717-545-5527; harrisburgsymphony.org

Feb. 8-9: The Gershwins’ “Porgy and Bess”
Feb. 29-March 1: Lisa Vroman

Hershey Theatre
15 E. Caracas Ave., Hershey
717-534-3405; hersheytheatre.com

Feb. 13: Lee Brice
Feb. 14: Hershey Symphony

Hollywood Casino
777 Hollywood Blvd., Grantville
717-469-2211; hollywoodpnrc.com

Feb. 1: Radio Neon
Feb. 7, 8: Sought Out City, Sapphire
Feb. 14: The Luv Gods
Feb. 15: Hooligan
Feb. 21: Cazhmiere
Feb. 22; Smooth Like Clyde
Feb. 28: Vinyl Groov
Feb. 29: The Josh Square Band

House of Music, Arts & Culture (H*MAC)
1110 N. 3rd St., Harrisburg
717-441-7506; harrisburgarts.com

Feb. 2: Queens Who Brunch
Feb. 8: Any Given Sin, Silvertung, Rise Among Rivals, Coal, Demyze, Dead Bird Pie
Feb. 11: King 180, Skinlab, Righteous Vendetta, Voice The Chaos, Ultraviolent
Feb. 13: September Mourning, Madame Mayhem, American Grim
Feb. 18: Flaw, Gabriel and the Apocalypse, Jump the Fall
Feb. 19: Another Lost Year, Cold Kingdom
Feb. 21: Wildstreet

Majestic Theater
25 Carlisle St., Gettysburg
717-337-8200; gettysburgmajestic.org

Feb. 16: Wind Symphony Pops Family Concert
Feb. 22: Symphony Orchestra Concert
Feb. 28: Jazz Ensemble Concert

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

Feb. 1: Shawan and the Wonton
Feb. 2: Superbowl Shrimp Ryan
Feb. 8: Willis
Feb. 15: 2nd Time Thru
Feb. 16: Open Irish Jam
Feb. 22: Don Johnson Project
Feb. 23: Blues Brunch
Feb. 28: Visitors Duo

Market Square Concerts
www.marketsquareconcerts.org

Feb 12: Andrei Ionita

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

Feb. 28: Messiah College Wind Ensemble and Symphonic Winds
Feb. 29: Jazz Vespers

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

Feb. 29: “Welcome the Rain” Cabaret w/Rebecca Covert

River City Blues Club & Dart Room
819 S. Cameron St., Harrisburg
717-525-8926; rivercityhbg.com

Feb. 1-2: Nineties Entertainment System
Feb. 8-9: Lovers of Music

Rusty Rail Brewing Company
5 N. 8th North St., Mifflinburg
570-966-7878; rustyrailbrewing.com

Feb. 9: John Nemeth

Stock’s on 2nd
211 N. 2nd Street, Harrisburg
717-233-6699; stocksonsecond.com

Feb. 7: Swisher Sweets
Feb. 8: Wally De Wall
Feb. 14: Natalie Ness
Feb. 15: Shea Quinn and Friends
Feb. 21: Ben Simcox Music
Feb. 22: Derek Henry
Feb. 28: Natalie Ness
Feb. 29: Quentin Jones

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

Feb. 8: Winter Coffee House
Feb. 9: February Jam House
Feb. 9: Missy Raines Quartet
Feb. 20: Altan
Feb. 23: HighTime

The Ware Center
42 N. Prince St., Lancaster
717-871-2308; artsmu.com

Feb. 1: Endea Owens and The Cookout
Feb. 6: YAMATO—The Drummers of Japan
Feb. 7: Ceasar Westbrook Jam Session
Feb. 7: We the People—Lancaster Gospel Roots
Feb. 9: NextGEN Overture Winter Concert
Feb. 9: NextGEN Allegretto Winter Concert
Feb. 21: Jazz at the ‘Ville
Feb. 22: Alphonso Horne and the Gotham Kings
Feb. 23: Penn Square Music Festival
Feb. 26: The Blood is at the Doorstep
Feb. 29: Beethoven’s 250th Birthday Celebration Sonata Series with Xun Pan

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

Feb. 6: The Don Johnson Project
Feb. 7: Whitaker Unplugged
Feb. 8: Laurie Berkner
Feb. 12: The Doors—Break on Through
Feb. 13: Shawan and the Wonton
Feb. 16: Citizen Cope
Feb. 22-23: Gerald Veasley’s Unscripted Jazz Series

Zeroday Brewing Co.
250 Reily St., Harrisburg
717-745-6218; zerodaybrewing.com

Feb. 7: Jessica Batz

The Stage Door

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

Feb. 26: Masters of Illusion

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

Feb. 14: Liz Russo

The Belmont Theatre
27 S. Belmont St., York
717-854-3894; thebelmont.org

Feb. 14-23: “Legally Blonde”

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

Feb. 1-15: “Savannah Sipping Society”
Feb. 20-29: “Grumpy Old Men”

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

Feb. 7-9: “Voices of the Eighth 20/20—Rhythms of Resilience”
Feb. 21: TMI Improv and Happy Hour
Feb. 29-March 15: “An Enemy of the People”

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

Feb. 14-16: “Winnie-the-Pooh”

Harrisburg Comedy Zone
110 Limekiln Rd., New Cumberland
717-920-5653; harrisburgcomedyzone.com

Feb. 1: Jay Stevens and Ben Jones
Feb. 7, 8: Coleman Green and Dylan Vattelana
Feb. 9: Oxymorons Improv Comedy Show
Feb. 14-16: Basile
Feb. 21, 22: Mike Gardner
Feb. 28, 29: Aaron Kleiber

Harrisburg Improv Theatre
1633 N. 3rd St., Harrisburg
717-798-6973; hbgimprov.com

Feb. 7: Free Jam—Beef (Howie), Scoreface/The Director, Ferd Majelly/Acoustic Tour, JODY/Drive Thru Pals
Feb. 8: Free Mixer—Mixer (Preteen Girls), Bad Berries/The Bat, Rockstar Goes Supernova, Introduce a Self
Feb. 14: Free Jam (Oh No Mono), Leg of Lamp/Art Patrol, Sangy & Dock/Unbelievably Tasty, ElderProv/Closed Casket
Feb. 15: Free Mixer (What? Hell Yeah! What?!), Side Hustle/Ball N’ Chain, Dang./Without A Tres, Critical HIT/Two Princesses
Feb. 21: Free Jam (Six In A Row), Scoreface/Bandito, BEEF, Bemafo
Feb. 22: Free Mixer (Wild Goose Chaise), Bad Berries/Sketch Pad, Barbra, Tiny Town
Feb. 28: Free Mixer (The Assembly), Leg Of Lamp/This Show Will Self Destruct, HIT BITS, Mary Todd Lincoln/Love Triangle
Feb. 29: Free Mixer (Psyentz), Side Hustle/Bandjob, The Real FAST Coast Wives, Solo Sleepover/Dropkick Morpheus

Hershey Area Playhouse
830 Cherry Dr., Hershey
717-533-8525; hersheyareaplayhouse.com

Feb. 13-23: “Love, Loss and What I Wore”

Hershey Theatre
15 E. Caracas Ave., Hershey
717-534-3405; hersheytheatre.com

Feb. 7: “Romeo & Juliet” w/National Ballet Theatre of Odessa Ukraine
Feb. 22-23: “Paw Patrol Live!”
Feb. 28-29: “Bandstand”

House of Music, Arts & Culture (H*MAC)
1110 N. 3rd St., Harrisburg
717-441-7506; harrisburgarts.com

Feb. 2: Queens Who Brunch

Keystone Theatrics
The Playhouse at Allenberry
1559 Boiling Springs Rd., Boiling Springs
717-258-3211; allenberry.com

Feb. 21-March 1: Ken Ludwig’s “Leading Ladies”

Little Theatre of Mechanicsburg
915 S. York St., Mechanicsburg
717-766-0535; ltmpa.com

Feb. 1: “Three Tall Women”
Feb. 28-March 14: “Casa Valentina”

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

Feb. 9: The Tap Pack

Majestic Theater
25 Carlisle St., Gettysburg
717-337-8200; gettysburgmajestic.org

Feb. 9: “Charlotte’s Web”

Market Square Presbyterian Church
20 S. Second St., Harrisburg
717-257-1270; marketsquarechurch.org

Feb. 7: “Revival”

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

Feb. 6-16: “Anne of Green Gables”
Feb. 16: Mendelssohn Piano Trio and Central Pennsylvania Youth Ballet
Feb. 21-22: Humanities Symposium Dance Concert

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

Feb. 1-March 8: “Amelie the Musical”
Feb. 6, 7, 13, 14, 20, 27, 28: Court Street Cabaret After Hours

Oyster Mill Playhouse
1001 Oyster Mill Road, Camp Hill
717-737-6768; www.oystermill.com

Feb. 1-2: “Towards Zero”

River City Blues Club & Dart Room
819 S. Cameron St., Harrisburg
717-525-8926; rivercityhbg.com

Feb. 23: Risque Cabaret

Rose Lehrman Art Center
One HACC Drive, Harrisburg
717-231-ROSE; hacc.edu/RLAC

Feb. 21-22: New Works Festival

Theatre Harrisburg
513 Hurlock St., Harrisburg
717-232-5501; theatreharrisburg.com

Feb. 1-2: “The Scarlet Letter” at Whitaker Center

The Ware Center
42 N. Prince St., Lancaster
717-871-2308; artsmu.com

Feb. 15: PA Ballet II—Fairy Rhymes

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

Feb. 1-2: “The Scarlet Letter” w/Theatre Harrisburg

Zeroday Brewing Co.
250 Reily St., Harrisburg
717-745-6218; zerodaybrewing.com

Feb. 2: NYC Comedy Show

Weekend Roundup with Sara Bozich

January 30, 2020 | by Sara Bozich

Happy Weekend!

It’s all party prep from here on out: Our Launch Party is Friday! We have a few spots left if you wanna join us! The rest of my weekend is purposefully low-key, but if I don’t get over to Ashcombe’s Plantapalooza, I’m going to be mad at myself. Sunday is Groundhog Day, and you can bet your groundhog I’ll be tuned to PCN first thing in the morning.

What are you doing this weekend?

(more…)

More apartments headed to downtown Harrisburg, as office-to-residential conversion approved

January 28, 2020 | by Lawrance Binda

Harristown received city approval on Tuesday to convert this brick building to apartments.

More apartments are headed to downtown Harrisburg, as a split City Council on Tuesday approved Harristown’s latest building plan.

By a 4-3 vote, council approved a proposal to convert a Market Square office building to residential use.

“The land development plan is in compliance with all rules and regulations,” said council member Dave Madsen, before the vote.

Some council members have expressed a desire to include lower-income housing in this project. Madsen said that he sympathized with the need for affordable housing in Harrisburg, but that, as it stands, the city has no grounds for denying the project.

South Second Associates LLC, a development group led by Harristown Enterprises, plans to build out 30 one- and two-bedroom units from the former home of the Skarlatos Zonarich law firm, which has relocated to Strawberry Square. Rents are expected to range from $1,100 to $1,400 a month, depending on square footage and the numbers of bedrooms and bathrooms.

The developers originally planned to retain the building for offices, but couldn’t find an anchor tenant, which led to a change to residential use.

As she has previously, council President Wanda Williams objected to the project and voted against it, joined in opposition by council members Ausha Green and Danielle Bowers.

Williams said she that, for years, she has urged Harristown to meet with the city or with such entities as the Harrisburg Housing Authority to include units that would meet some undefined standard of affordable housing.

“I informed you three or fours years ago that I want to see a percentage for inclusionary or affordable housing,” Williams said, directing her comments to Harristown CEO Brad Jones.

Council member Shamaine Daniels, however, said that the city shouldn’t expect a specific developer to provide affordable housing when the city itself lacks an affordable housing statute. In fact, she placed blame on council itself for inaction on the issue.

“The leadership really comes from council or the mayor,” she said. “I think it’s unfair to hold individuals responsible for lack of leadership on our own part.”

At a council meeting last week, Williams said that she expected to introduce an affordable housing ordinance later this year.

Over the past several years, Harristown has invested tens of millions of dollars to convert substandard, often vacant, downtown office space into new, market-rate apartments. In fact, it currently is signing leases in three buildings that total 82 new units–a small building on S. 2nd Street and two larger buildings on Pine Street.

Jones said that he expects the renovation of the Market Square building, located at 17 S. 2nd St., to begin this spring and be completed early next year.

Taking Flight: Hip-hop artist to open skate shop, studio in Harrisburg

January 28, 2020 | by Maddie Conley

This building is slated to become a skate shop called fltbys.

It’s not every day that Harrisburg is compared to Brooklyn, N.Y.

But when Brooklyn-based hip-hop artist KOTA The Friend came to check out the city, that’s exactly what he thought.

Last month, fltbys (Flight Boys) Music and Entertainment, KOTA’s streetwear brand, announced that it would be opening a store in Midtown. KOTA purchased the building that formerly housed the restaurant Right on Reily, as well as several other restaurants before that.

Drawn to the city’s potential for growth and current skateboarding, music and arts scene, KOTA said, “It’s low-key and chill, but it could be great. It has the vibe I’m looking for.”

KOTA (pictured) envisions fltbys as a local hangout place for artists, musicians and skaters. The shop will sell his merchandise, including T-shirts, sweatshirts and accessories, along with skateboards. There will also be a recording studio for KOTA to collaborate with other artists.

“fltbys is just a creative hub, it always has been,” he said. The shop, he added, gives young artists a place to “really connect with each other.”

The hip-hop artist launched his brand, looking to promote his music, when he was only a sophomore in high school. At the time, he was just printing shirts and giving them out for free.

After years of playing gigs around the city, KOTA released his first album, “Anything,” in 2018. In 2019, his second album, “FOTO,” reached over 100 million streams and 5 million listeners globally. His most recent album, “Lyrics to Go Vol. 1,” came out Jan. 20. Through his recent tour, he has grown a following in New York, as well as internationally.

So why Harrisburg?

According to KOTA, New York already has a lot, but Harrisburg is lacking a streetwear culture.

While there’s no set date yet for the opening of fltbys, KOTA predicts it will be mid- to late April. He plans to appear for the opening, as well.

“I’m down to make new things happen in new places,” he said. “I’m not here for the money. Wherever we are, we are going to be a part of the culture.”

Fltbys is slated to open this spring at 263 Reily St., Harrisburg. For more information visit KOTA The Friend’s website or fltbys’ website. Photo of KOTA The Friend by Geoff Levy.

DJ Steve Aoki to play Harrisburg’s Riverfront Park this summer

January 28, 2020 | by Lawrance Binda

Come June, you may be dancing in the park.

That’s the latest word from Harrisburg University’s ambitious concert series.

This morning, HU announced its second Riverfront Park concert of the summer, one that may have you kicking off your shoes to bust some moves.

Two-time Grammy-nominated DJ Steve Aoki will hit the stage on June 26, along with supporting artist Deorro.

This is the second Riverfront Park concert announced by HU recently. Last week, the university said that Icelandic band Of Monsters and Men will play on June 4.

Aoki burst on to the dance/electronic scene while still in college in the mid-1990s, soon establishing his own record label, events/lifestyle company and apparel line. In addition to his own records, he’s worked with such acts as the Chainsmokers, Bloc Party, the Bloody Beetroots, the Gossip and the Kills.

Aoki tours relentlessly, playing hundreds of dates a year, a schedule chronicled in Netflix’s 2016 documentary, “I’ll Sleep When I’m Dead.” His most recent studio album, “Neon Future III,” was released in late 2018.

He’ll be joined on stage by opener Deorro, a Los Angeles-based DJ whose song, “Five Hours,” peaked at No. 1 on Billboard’s dance/mix airplay chart.

Tickets for Aoki and Deorro go on sale at 10 a.m. on Friday. For more information or to buy tickets for HU Concert Series shows, visit the concert series website.

Bob’s Art Blog: SAM’s Surprise & Millworks Saturdays

January 26, 2020 | by Bob MacGinnes

A big celebration was afoot recently at the Susquehanna Art Museum.

Chances are, if you’re reading this blog, you are over the age of 5, unless you are my granddaughter, who is precocious. I know what you’re thinking, “She’s your granddaughter.” That aside, someone much bigger, think grand-scale big, just celebrated their birthday.

Founded in 1989 by a group of arts educators, the Susquehanna Art Museum (SAM) today provides a perfect anchor to the 1400-block of N. 3rd Street. All the more reason to strike up the band in celebrating SAM’s fifth Midtown birthday, which was on Jan. 23.

There is an old saying from the days of dime novels, “Will it play in Peoria?” That query was code for—will it be well received by mainstream America? For years, Peoria was a test market for you-name-it, due to its representation for middle America.

Having lived most of my life in this area, I can honestly say that central PA is on the cusp of being a metropolitan hub, branding its own taste for culture. This is represented by the handsome addition five years ago of the new Susquehanna Art Museum and its neighbors, such as the Millworks, Midtown Cinema, Midtown Scholar, Elementary Coffee, HMAC’s revitalization and the list goes on.

The growth of SAM under the leadership of Executive Director Alice Anne Schwab and its board of directors has taken what once could have been viewed as a risky venture and turned it into a jewel of the 3rd Street corridor. It links Midtown Harrisburg to downtown through events like its summertime partnership with the State Museum of Pennsylvania. Its educational art mobile, Van Go! On Wheels, reaches 20,000 students annually, and SAM brings major art shows to its grand galleries.

Its biggest asset, consistently on point, is the groundbreaking art exhibits that take center stage. From Romare Bearden to “Picasso: A Life in Print,” there have been an array of outstanding shows in its recent history. In 2020, stay tuned for more.

They say that, in business, the first five years are crucial, and it takes reinvestment to grow. Knowing Alice Anne and her team of Lauren Nye, Tina Sell, Ross Tyger and an outstanding group of volunteers behind the scenes, SAM will continue to give back to Midtown, creating even more avenues for art, and you can take that to the De Soto Vault.

So, to answer the question—will it play in Harrisburg? Most definitely, yes. SAM, besides being open six days a week, offers amenities that major museums in metropolitan areas like New York and Washington, D.C., also offer. These include members-only art salons on summer evenings, special gallery tours by exhibition artists and visits by art aficionados such as John Szoke of his world-famous New York City gallery. Most important of all, SAM is the only dedicated art museum in central PA.

At the birthday bash, Dauphin County Parks and Recreation Director Carl Dickson made the opening remarks. Speaking on behalf of the county commissioners, he read from a proclamation declaring Jan. 23, 2020, as Susquehanna Art Museum Day in Dauphin County, commending SAM’s “enduring impact in the region.”

Keynote speaker J. Randall Grespin, chair of SAM’s development committee, then revealed noteworthy news to all, a crowd of over 150 staunch supporters and art patrons who gathered to celebrate. He announced that the successful “Bridge to the Future” capital campaign raised more than $3 million.

“Now we can think about not just surviving but thriving,” Grespin said. “We can explore how to expand our programs’ reach beyond the museum’s walls. We can envision a beautiful art and event space in our adjacent courtyard or a new VANGo! to replace one that has served more than 55,000 children.”

Philanthropist Marty and Tom Philips of Lemoyne (and Naples, Fla.) pledged a total of $2 million over 20 years if the museum could raise $1 million in matching funds by the end of 2019, which they accomplished. In recognition of this generous gift, the museum now is proudly referred to as the Susquehanna Art Museum at the Marty and Tom Philips Family Art Center, or in its abbreviated form, SAM at the Marty. Perhaps the most exciting news, beyond the campaign’s success, is the mission going forward for inclusion to go well beyond the city limits and to enlighten every visitor to the wonders of art.

Peoria—that is so 19th century. I have seen the future, and it resides firmly planted at 1401 N. 3rd St. Play it again, SAM.

The Susquehanna Art Museum is located at 1401 N. 3^rd St., Harrisburg. For more information, visit www.susquehannaartmuseum.org.

1st Saturdays at the Millworks

The art part of the Millworks, under Director Tara Chickey, is experimenting with expanding opportunities for exposure (to the arts).

In speaking with Chickey, she informed me that the Millworks’ eat+art experience has been well received since the venue opened in 2015, with people patronizing the artists before or after they grab a bite. This innovator, with her hive of artists, now has sweetened the pot, enticing patrons with a window “to dine and mine” the rich treasures found among the artists’ offerings, every first Saturday of the month from 2 to 5 p.m.

It’s hard to believe that January is almost over, which means the next “1st Saturday” is coming up on Feb. 1. Chickey, in consort with the artists, will have the studios open for gazing (and purchasing) before or after grazing. This special window of time affords customers an opportunity to grab a drink, then meet and talk to the artists firsthand, learning about their processes and their works.

It sounds like a perfect pre-Valentine’s date to me—lunch or dinner and a chance to discover that special piece to wear or hang on a wall. And if you are unattached, what better place to meet someone new at the bar or strolling the avenue of art at the Millworks? The perfect icebreaker being, “Would you look at that?”

The Millworks is located at 340 Verbeke St., Harrisburg. For more information, visit www.millworksharrisburg.com.

7-term Harrisburg Mayor Steve Reed dies; sentiments pour in following his passing

January 25, 2020 | by Lawrance Binda

Long-time Harrisburg Mayor Stephen R. Reed has died, the seven-term, often-controversial mayor defining an era of Harrisburg’s history.

Reed, 70, died following a long battle with prostate cancer. He left behind a complicated legacy, one marked both by the city’s nascent renaissance and its eventual financial collapse.

Born in Chambersburg, Reed later moved to Harrisburg and attended Bishop McDevitt High School. As a teenager, he already was involved in Democratic politics and left Dickinson College to pursue his political ambitions.

At just 25 years old, he was elected to the state Assembly, serving five years, and also was elected Dauphin County commissioner. His true desire, though, was to lead his struggling hometown, and he was elected mayor in 1981.

At the time, Harrisburg was suffering from decades of deindustrialization, depopulation and disinvestment, as well as devastating flooding. He immediately made big plans for change.

Through 28 years in office, Reed had many successes, including reviving City Island, attracting a minor league baseball team, opening the National Civil War Museum and reinvigorating the moribund downtown.

Over time, though, questions arose over how the city financed these and other projects. In the early 2000s, a bungled retrofit of the city’s troubled incinerator revealed Harrisburg’s fragile financial state and very high levels of debt. It also was discovered that Reed had spent millions of public dollars buying artifacts for a series of museums he hoped to build.

In 2009, Reed lost a bid for an unprecedented eighth term, and, soon, the city was placed into the state’s Act 47 program for financially distressed municipalities then put directly into state receivership.

Meanwhile, the state launched an investigation into Reed’s dealings and, in 2015, charged him with 499 criminal counts, most later dismissed due to statute of limitations restrictions. In 2017, he was given probation after pleading guilty to 20 criminal counts related to museum artifacts found in his possession.

Reed left behind a complex legacy, one of rebuilding and distress, one the city lives with to this day.

Since his death was announced on Saturday, many key players in the city, including those directly impacted by Reed, have issued statements on his life and legacy.

Mayor Eric Papenfuse
“Mayor Reed dedicated his life to the citizens of Harrisburg and central Pennsylvania. His transformative vision left an indelible mark on every major development project in our capital for over a generation. Harrisburg mourns his loss, and on behalf of our City, I extend my deepest condolences to his family. The flags at City Hall, Riverfront Park, and City Island will be lowered to half-staff in honor of his life of public service.”

Dr. Eric Darr, president of Harrisburg University
“Mayor Stephen R. Reed was a visionary whose foresight changed the landscape of Harrisburg. Under his leadership, Harrisburg University was created as a hub for STEM learning and economic development. He lived to see today’s HU recognized as a model of higher education and civic impact. The legacy of Steve Reed includes lives changed and a region transformed, in part because Harrisburg University emerged from his vision of a vibrant city full of opportunities.”

Ted Black, CEO of Whitaker Center
“On behalf of the Board of Directors and Emeritus of Whitaker Center for Science and the Arts, we would like to express our deep sadness on the passing of Mayor Stephen Reed. Mayor Reed was an outstanding leader who, along with other community, government, legislative and business leaders, spearheaded the collaborative effort to create a first-of-its-kind visionary institution 20 years ago. We are forever grateful to Mayor Reed for the instrumental role he played in helping with Harrisburg’s revitalization and in establishing Whitaker Center as Harrisburg’s “Crown Jewel.” His legacy will live on in the dedication, guidance and inspiration for the next generation of children who are introduced to science and the arts through Whitaker Center. We send our condolences to his family and the region, and thank one of our most valuable founders.”

Brad Jones, president and CEO of Harristown Enterprises
“Harristown salutes Stephen R. Reed for his lifetime of service to the City of Harrisburg. He had a way of making us all believe that anything was truly possible with vision and tireless persistence. Reed was a partner with Harristown on a myriad of major economic development projects including the Hilton Harrisburg and the recreating of Market Square Plaza, the Whitaker Center for Science and the Arts, the Penn National Headquarters office tower, Strawberry Square Phase II, the International House, the creation of the Harrisburg Downtown Improvement District, Bricco restaurant, and so much more. Steve Reed was the master of absorbing the details of any new project and then reciting it back to the public with all the colorful details that would bring it to life. He had an incredibly bold sense of optimism for the City of Harrisburg and was a consummate cheerleader and champion for the city.”

The Harrisburg Regional Chamber & CREDC
Steve Reed was a rare visionary whose 35 years of elected public service, 28 as mayor, was focused on restoring and re-inventing Harrisburg as a great city. Our city, our region is simply a better place because of Mayor Reed. He was a friend and a champion of the Chamber & CREDC. He was a catalyst for our region in the truest sense of the word. On behalf of our members, our boards and staff, we offer our sympathies to his family and those men and women who worked with him throughout his life of public service to the city he loved.”

This story has been updated several times.

The Week That Was: News and features around Harrisburg

January 24, 2020 | by Lawrance Binda

Volunteers pose for a picture on cold Patrick Alley in Harrisburg following a cleanup during MLK Day of Service.

The Harrisburg area was caught in the slow melt this week, following last weekend’s snow/sleet/ice storm. This meant a few cold days for our reporters, who were out and about covering important local news stories. In case you missed one, we have all of our coverage warmly recapped below.

Harrisburg Chamber of Commerce & CREDC held its annual House legislators’ forum this past week, with area representatives speaking of Capitol comity, as well as their priorities for the year. Find out what’s on the mind of your statehouse delegate by visiting our news story.

Harrisburg City Council expects to bring up an affordable housing measure later this year, according to the council president. She made that declaration following a hearing on the latest proposal to convert an old office building into downtown apartments.

Harrisburg High School, John Harris Campus, has a new interim principal, the fourth school leader in a year. Our news story offers some background on the new principal, who is slated to remain in place pending a permanent hire.

Michael Hertrich has moved his eponymous gallery from Pittsburgh to Harrisburg, opening in the heart of the Midtown business district. Discover what you’ll find in his unique second-story space by checking out our magazine feature story.

MLK Day of Service was a chilly one, but that didn’t stop volunteers from coming out in droves around central PA. We visited a few sites in Harrisburg to find out what was being raked, shoveled and bagged.

Of Monsters and Men are coming to the Harrisburg riverfront this summer for an outdoor concert, Harrisburg University announced. Read our news story to find out how you can get tickets to see the popular Icelandic alt-rock band.

Riverfront Gallery and Susquehanna Art Museum exhibits caught our reviewer’s eye during last week’s 3rd in the Burg. He had a lot to say about the works on display, conveyed in his latest blog post.

Sara Bozich has put away her snow boots temporarily, as the weather has become more favorable to get out and about. Learn what’s on her long list of fun things to do in her weekly blog.

Skincare is an important part of daily hygiene, especially during the winter. That’s why we asked local estheticians for their tips on maintaining healthy and vibrant skin. Read what they had to say.

St. Stephen’s Episcopal School students soon no longer will have access to free breakfasts and lunches. School leaders are trying to find a permanent solution, but, in the meantime, are asking the community for support so that the program can continue. Find out how you can help.

Theatre Harrisburg opened its latest production, “The Scarlet Letter,” and our reviewer attended opening night. Discover what she thought of this unique production, which adds music to the American literary classic.

Violet Oakley is a singular figure in the history of art in Pennsylvania. The State Museum now is displaying studies from some of her famous Capitol murals, a story that we featured in our January magazine.

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

Weekend Roundup with Sara Bozich

January 23, 2020 | by Sara Bozich

Happy Weekend!

In a most unusual move (for me, these days), I’m starting off the weekend with dinner with a girlfriend (and no kids).

If you’re looking for some Friday night fun, the PA Auto Show is hosting its first-ever Beer + Wine Garden inside the show on Friday evening (5-9 p.m.) ONLY! Details + Tickets.

On Saturday, it’s a work meeting followed by Microdermabrasion & Mimosas party with The Skincare Coach. I’d love to also go to Ashcombe’s plant propagation workshop, but I fear I can’t ditch the fam that long.

What are you doing this weekend?

(more…)

You May Also Like

You May Also Like

Happy Weekend!

What are you doing this weekend?

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

Happy Weekend!

What are you doing this weekend?

You May Also Like