Harrisburg plans to organize, run Artsfest for 2020 event

September 18, 2019 | by Lawrance Binda

A colorful scene at Artsfest this past May

When Jump Street announced it was shutting down, many Harrisburg residents wondered who would run the city’s beloved Artsfest celebration.

Now we know, as the city has opted to take the event in-house.

For 2020, Megan Roby, the city’s director of special events, will take the lead in organizing Artsfest, the long-running, three-day, arts-focused celebration along the city waterfront, said Mayor Eric Papenfuse.

“The city is taking on Artsfest for next year because no one else has stepped up,” he said.

Artsfest takes place in Riverfront Park each Memorial Day weekend, attracting more than 200 art exhibitors and vendors, as well as thousands of visitors. Several years ago, the nonprofit arts group, Jump Street, took over the event from long-time organizer, the Greater Harrisburg Arts Council. However, Jump Street now is dissolving.

Papenfuse said that adopting Artsfest, in its 53rd year, wasn’t his preferred option, but that he feared that the event wouldn’t happen otherwise.

“We can’t let Artsfest disappear,” he said. “It’s too valuable to the city.”

For one year, the city hopes to hire Melissa Snyder, the long-time executive director of Jump Street, as a consultant. To that end, City Council introduced a resolution on Tuesday night that, if approved, would pay Snyder $10,000 to help transition the event from Jump Street to the city. That amount breaks down to $50 per hour for an expected 200 hours of work.

“It’s a small consulting contract so that we have the institutional knowledge we need,” Papenfuse said.

Council is expected to discuss the resolution at a future work session before voting on the contract.

Papenfuse estimates the total cost of Artsfest to be about $100,000. In the end, he expects the city to break even from sponsorships and other event revenue.

The city already organizes the two other big summer events in Riverfront Park—the July 4 Food Truck Festival & Fireworks and the three-day Kipona festival over Labor Day. It also puts on such events as the Fire & Ice Festival in March, the holiday parade in November and the downtown New Year’s Eve celebration.

Harrisburg mayor says at least 2 companies express interest in water/sewer system

September 17, 2019 | by Lawrance Binda

The Susquehanna River at Harrisburg

Harrisburg has received interest from at least two companies that have responded to a request for information, as the city ponders privatizing its water and sewer system.

Mayor Eric Papenfuse on Tuesday night said that, as of last week, two companies, which he declined to name, had responded to the city’s notice, meant to gauge possible interest in purchasing the system.

Interviews with those companies—and any others that met the Sept. 16 deadline—now will be scheduled, he said.

At Tuesday’s City Council meeting, Papenfuse reiterated that this step was preliminary and that no decision had been reached on whether to privatize the system, which serves 20,300 water customers and a 17,000-connection wastewater system.

“We’re just in information-gathering, due diligence mode,” he said. “We’re not recommending or even close to recommending that we should explore the path to a sale. If that’s the path we go on, we would have many public meetings. It’s not even close to that time.”

Papenfuse added that he invited officials with the city’s current municipal utility, Capital Region Water, to sit in on the interviews. He said he wasn’t certain if they had decided to attend.

As in other recent meetings, several council members reacted skeptically to the possibility of privatizing the water/sewer system.

“I still have a lot of faith in the job that Capital Region Water is doing and concerns over a sale,” said Councilman Westburn Majors.

Recently, Harrisburg and CRW have taken heat over a report by a Washington, D.C.-based organization called the Environmental Integrity Project (EIP), which said it measured E.coli bacteria levels in the Susquehanna River at Harrisburg that exceeded the level believed to be safe by as much as 10 times.

The likely culprit, it said, is the city’s combined sewer system, which often exceeds capacity and dumps raw sewage into the river during rainstorms.

“I’m committed to getting us a plan that works for cleaning up the Susquehanna River and the Chesapeake Bay,” Papenfuse said.

For its part, CRW today stated that some of the elevated levels measured by EIP are unlikely to originate from its sewage system, especially the reading at City Island. EIP recorded the highest E.coli levels at City Island beach, which, CRW said, is out of reach of the wastewater that flows from its Harrisburg pipes.

“There is little correlation between bacteria concentrations at City Island, rainfall events, and combined sewer overflow (CSO) activity within Capital Region Water’s service territory,” according to CRW. “The Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) assessment of Susquehanna River water quality, summarized in the 2016 Pennsylvania Integrated Water Quality Monitoring and Assessment Report, concludes that the shallow and wide physical characteristics of the Susquehanna River in the vicinity of Harrisburg limit mixing across the river.”

CRW is currently under a partial consent decree with the federal Environmental Protection Agency to fix the combined flow problem, which is common in cities with old sewer infrastructure. CRW expects to spend some $315 million over the next two decades to address it.

“As we all know, this is [the result of] decades of neglect to the infrastructure,” Majors said.

Papenfuse also has been critical of CRW for its proposed stormwater fee, which would pay for some of the infrastructure fixes, and other issues, such as the long-delayed Front Street interceptor project.

These issues, in part, led to the exploration of a sale, he said.

Papenfuse added that he would hold public meetings if the city continues to consider selling the system. He also said that he’d like to hold a public meeting on the proposed stormwater fee, which CRW wants to implement beginning Jan.1.

“I would strongly support a public meeting to discuss the stormwater fee and other issues,” Papenfuse said. “I think it would be appropriate for council to organize one. It’s a very important and complicated conversation. I’m all for it.”

CRW today said it “is receptive” to a city-arranged meeting on the wastewater fee. It already has been holding numerous meetings around Harrisburg to explain its position to residents.

Click here to read the report, “Sewage Overflows in Pennsylvania’s Capital,” from the Environmental Integrity Project.

This story has been updated to include responses from Capital Region Water.

Harrisburg to retain 2 of 4 threatened stop signs until council can act

September 17, 2019 | by Lawrance Binda

The stop sign at 3rd and Kelker streets last month

Harrisburg will retain two of four stop signs on N. 3^rd Street that were threatened with removal until City Council can make a final decision on their fate.

Mayor Eric Papenfuse on Tuesday night said that his administration has decided to retain the stop signs at Emerald and Kelker streets, but remove them at Harris and Boyd streets.

These are temporary measures until the 3^rd Street corridor project is complete, Papenfuse said. At that time, council will have the option of making a final decision on the signs by changing the city’s traffic control map.

“The traffic control map will come to City Council for approval once the project is done,” Papenfuse said. “In the meantime, I will make [this] recommendation.”

In early August, residents along the corridor were surprised to learn that the city planned to remove stop signs on N. 3^rd Street at those four intersections. Soon after, numerous residents appeared at a council meeting to protest the removal.

Residents claimed removing the signs would lead to a more dangerous street, though city Engineer Wayne Martin said that, under state and federal guidelines, stop signs at those intersections were not warranted. Stop signs would remain on the side streets leading to 3^rd Street.

At the Harris and Boyd street intersections, the stop signs will be replaced with yield signs. A pedestrian crosswalk also will be added at Harris Street.

“I agree with Boyd,” said Councilman Westburn Majors. “I’m concerned about Harris Street because there’s the senior living building there.”

Papenfuse reiterated that council would be able to reverse this action when it reconsiders its traffic control map next year.

“You’ll have the final say,” he said. “It’s a recommendation on how to proceed in the short term.”

Papenfuse also offered an update on the 3^rd Street corridor project. He said that road milling and paving would begin soon between Reily and Forster streets, with completion expected by mid-October.

He added that the project unexpectedly will extend into next year for the downtown area south of Forster Street for two principal reasons.

First, Harrisburg University has requested a work stoppage at S. 3^rd and Chestnut streets until it removes its heavy equipment from the immediate area as part of the construction of its 17-story academic tower and hotel.

Secondly, the city recently learned that it has received a $40,000 state Department of Environmental Protection grant to install eight electric vehicle charging stations in front of the State Museum. The installation of the electrical infrastructure will delay completion of the project in that area, Papenfuse said.

Moreover, the city plans to complete the sidewalk-widening project around the state Capitol. About eight years ago, the sidewalk around the Capitol on Walnut Street and most of N. 3^rd Street was widened. However, the project wasn’t completed, leaving the original, narrow concrete strip in place from North to State streets. That sidewalk now will be widened, as well, completing the walkway.

Papenfuse said the 3rd Street corridor project would extend “at least” into next summer south of Forster Street. Several council members urged the city to hold at least one public hearing to update residents on the project.

“We’re certainly open to scheduling and advertising so people can talk just about that project,” Papenfuse said.

Coming to HBG: Acoustic duo Rodrigo y Gabriela

September 17, 2019 | by Lawrance Binda

They once performed for President Barack Obama. Now, they can perform for you.

Mexican acoustic guitar duo Rodrigo y Gabriela are coming to Harrisburg, slated to play at the Forum on Nov. 30 as part of Harrisburg University’s concert series, the university announced today.

The pair melds numerous musical genres into their high-spirited acoustic sound, including flamenco, rock and heavy metal. Their eponymous 2006 album, “Rodrigo y Gabriela” charted at No. 1 and, a few years later, they were invited to the White House.

Their most recent album, “Mettavolution,” which was released in April, combines jazz, metal and Latino roots music.

Over the years, the duo has appeared at many music festivals and on numerous American TV programs, including “The Late Show with David Letterman” and “The Tonight Show.”

Rodrigo y Gabriela will play on Nov. 30, starting at 8 p.m., at the Forum in Harrisburg. Tickets are $50 to $69 and will be available at 10 a.m. on Sept. 20. For more information, visit the concert series website.

Bob’s Art Blog: Illustrated Man

September 17, 2019 | by Bob MacGinnes

The Art Association of Harrisburg (AAH) is so much more than a gallery showing great art. It also offers an in-house educational component that boosts 500 adult and students enrolled in art classes taught by 20 part-time faculty members.

With the arrival of fall just days away, the new semester and roster of classes are just getting under way. Operating as one of those instructors is Nate Foster (pictured).

Ray Bradbury’s anthology of short stories, “The Illustrated Man,” could equally stand in as a title for drawing instructor Foster.

A North Carolina native, Foster serves double duty at the association as gallery assistant, in addition to teaching Illustrative Art I and II. He is one of the secret weapons at the highly esteemed association. His classes instruct students interested in one of the oldest art forms known to man, as some cave drawings found in Indonesia date to over 35,000 years ago.

Foster has been teaching illustration for two years, squiring students in the basics of pencil and charcoal. Between five and 10 students per class are trained in drawing from observation within class assignments, which, when completed, go before peer critiques, highlighting growth and areas for improvement. Foster’s innate process of encouragement mixed with engagement create a familial sense of pride for his students and vice-versa for his instruction. The curriculum includes drawings of objects moving on to still lifes and then to interior drawing.

Having accomplished those steps, students undertake figure drawing based on posed models visiting Foster’s classes. In fact, Nate’s wife, Tzu, has guest modeled on numerous occasions. The next logical progression for aspiring students is to advance to in-house painter, Jonathan Frazier, for oil painting lessons.

Known for his love of menswear haberdashery, especially headgear, Nate deserves a tip of the “cap” for his tutelage. It has become a bit of a moniker for him. If you lean in and listen closely to Nate’s instruction, you might still be able to catch a bit of that North Carolina “draw.”

To learn more about the Art Association of Harrisburg and its art classes, visit their website.

The Week that Was: News and features around Harrisburg

September 13, 2019 | by Lawrance Binda

KTA Trail Challenge runners in action

Harrisburg news this week was marked by a little of this and a little of that. Take a gander at our stories below from the past week, and you’ll see what we mean.

Amy LeFever sees patterns wherever she goes, which you might expect from an acclaimed ceramicist. Recently, she took a first-place award in the annual “Art of the State” competition, with her work exhibited at the State Museum. Learn all about what she does in our recent feature story.

Harrisburg area home sales got a boost in August from declining mortgage rates. Both prices and unit sales were up, according to the Greater Harrisburg Association of Realtors. Find the info here.

Harrisburg Book Festival is returning for another long weekend of events, readings, signings and a big tent sale. Midtown Scholar Bookstore again will host the festival, which has attracted big-name authors over the years. Find out all the details here.

Homelessness is an important and troubling national issue. Dauphin County and the Dauphin County Library System are now trying new approaches to reach homeless and troubled patrons, especially those who use the downtown McCormick Riverfront Library. Learn more from our recent feature story.

Jason Isbell is one of the biggest names in roots and Americana music. He’s now coming to Harrisburg as part of Harrisburg University’s concert series. Find out more about this acclaimed singer-songwriter and how you can get tickets to his show.

KTA Trail Challenge is annual trail run that is also a test of runners’ endurance. So, why would someone run a 50K on a random Saturday? Our recent blog post gives a glimpse into local long-distance trail runners.

Penn National is chalking up a century of doing business in the Harrisburg area. Read the fascinating story of how the insurance company was founded and why it has remained in the city all these years.

“Rat Film” offers a look into both the lives of rats and the problems of Baltimore. The quirky documentary is coming to Midtown Cinema soon, with a special appearance by the film’s composer. Learn how you can attend.

Recycle Bicycle has begun moving out of the Atlas Street Warehouse. The community group is putting its massive inventory into storage until it finds a new place to call home. Click here for the story.

Two Poodles had its debut this week as the newest vendor at the Broad Street Market. While it may sound like a pet shop, it’s actually a bagel stand, selling its own freshly made product. Read all the details here.

Sara Bozich doesn’t want you to sit around and be bored this weekend. She has dozens of fun things to do in and around Harrisburg. Check out her long activity list.

Do you receive TheBurg Daily, our daily digest of news and events? If not, subscribe here!

Recycle Bicycle moves out of Atlas Street, may have beat on new site

September 13, 2019 | by Lawrance Binda

Ross Willard ponders all the inventory he needs to move.

Recycle Bicycle is rolling out of its current building, as the nonprofit has begun to close down its shop in Uptown Harrisburg.

Ross Willard, executive director, said that his organization has begun moving thousands of bicycles, parts and equipment from its home at the Atlas Street Warehouse.

“Recycle Bicycle is in the throes of moving all of our stock into storage,” he said.

Recycle Bicycle is a nonprofit that offers free bicycles, parts, advice and training to those in need, especially Harrisburg youth.

For the past four years, the community group has operated out of an old warehouse on the 2200-block of Atlas Street in Harrisburg. But the building recently sold, and a new location has not yet been secured.

Recycle Bicycle must completely vacate the Atlas Street location by Tuesday, Willard said.

Therefore, the group is putting all its belongings into temporary storage and will hold “pop-ups” around the Harrisburg area until it secures a new home. In the near future, pop-ups will held in numerous locations, including in Newville, Carlisle, York and New Cumberland, Willard said.

The good news is that Willard is cautiously optimistic that he has a beat on a new home.

“We believe we have a location,” he said. “We’re in the process of acquiring it in the center of Allison Hill.”

And that, Willard said, is exactly where he wants to be, since that’s where the greatest need is for their services. In fact, Recycle Bicycle has spent most of its 20-plus years on Allison Hill before moving to its Uptown location.

Willard wanted to add that he was “overwhelmed” by the response last Sunday to the Recycle Bicycle-sponsored “Colorful Bike Tour” on the closing day of the Harrisburg Mural Festival. About 150 bicyclists pedaled from mural to mural, viewing all the new art work in the city.

“It was remarkable,” he said.

To learn more about Recycle Bicycle, visit their website.

Toasted or Regular? Two Poodles opens bagel stand in Broad Street Market.

September 13, 2019 | by Maddie Conley

Two Poodles owners Bill Weber and Shea Mascia

Bill Weber and Shea Mascia’s bagel business, Two Poodles, began as a hobby—and by hobby they mean a hobby of eating them.

Now, starting this weekend, they are bringing their own homemade bagels to the Broad Street Market.

The couple met at Temple University in Philadelphia and took many trips to local bagel shops. They began trying out their own recipes and eventually wanted to take it to the next level and turn it into a business.

“There was a need for a good bagel shop in this area,” Mascia said.

They opened their first shop in the York Central Market in mid-February selling their fresh bread and cream cheese spreads. The bagels are made from their own locally cultivated yeast, which, according to Mascia, enhances the taste.

“They are as from-scratch as they can be,” Mascia explained.

Each bagel is prepared a day in advance in their hometown—Elizabethtown, giving it time to rise overnight and be baked fresh in the morning. Two Poodles also generously covers each bagel with toppings such as sesame or poppy seeds to ensure no bite is without that extra crunch.

Bagels are available for preorder online by the dozen or half dozen for those wanting to guarantee they get their box full.

And the business name? Take one look at both of their long curly hair and you will probably understand where it came from.

Both Weber and Mascia are excited to expand to Broad Street Market as they continue to grow their business. Weber highlighted how they are bringing a new breakfast option to the market, something it was previously lacking.

“We are really excited to be a part of this market and to get to know Harrisburg better,” Mascia said.

Animal ethics are also important to the couple as they are both vegetarians. They hope to soon find ways to use ethically produced milk in their products.

Weber pointed out their goal of having their own retail location in the future, their market shops being the first steps in the life of their business.

“That’s always been a dream of ours—to have a big shop,” Weber said.

Working together in their business has always been the couple’s desire and they are enjoying the two-fold partnership they have.

“If you’re good relationship partners, you’re better business partners,” Weber explained.

Two Poodles is located in the Broad Street Street in Harrisburg and the York Central Market in York. For more information, visit their website.

Harrisburg area home sales, prices climb

September 12, 2019 | by Lawrance Binda

Newly built houses on Allison Hill in Harrisburg

Both home sales and prices swung up in August in the Harrisburg area, largely due to falling interest rates.

The Greater Harrisburg Association of Realtors (GHAR) credited declining mortgage rates for sales that rose 5.3 percent to 720 units compared to the year-ago period. Median sales prices increased by 10.5 percent to $199,500 over the same period, GHAR said.

In Dauphin County, sales totaled 346 units, an increase of 16 units, while the median sales price rose 12.1 percent to $184,900 compared to August 2018, according to GHAR. Cumberland County saw sales go up by 9.7 percent to 350 units, with the median price up by 9.3 percent to $218,500.

Perry County had a decrease in volume, with sales down by 11 units to 24 units compared to the year-ago period, GHAR said. The median sales price also dropped, down 9.5 percent to $153,750.

Weekend Roundup with Sara Bozich

September 12, 2019 | by Sara Bozich

Happy Weekend!

Tonight we’re doing (a much overdue) dinner with my dad. Tomorrow I have a wine Happy Hour, but the weekend is blank.

Andy is heading to the Pitt v. PSU game, and I’m considering taking Bo back to Paulus Farm Market because he still cannot stop talking about seeing “the animals” from last Saturday — plus, their fall theme launches tomorrow!

Sunday = Football. Let us hope it’s a better round of games.

What are you doing this weekend?

(more…)

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Happy Weekend!

What are you doing this weekend?

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