The Week that Was: News and features around Harrisburg

September 26, 2025 | by Lawrance Binda and Maddie Gittens

The homeless encampment in south Harrisburg was cleared this week.

This week has brought lots of local news and features and we hope you’ve appreciated our community-focused coverage. If you missed any of our reporting, you can find it below.

Broad Street Market reconstruction is slated to begin at the brick building in the coming days, our magazine story reported. Harrisburg is weighing a plan to come up with the money for contractors.

City Council on Tuesday approved a plan to reconstruct the Rabbittransit facility on Cameron Street in Harrisburg, our online story reported. Additionally, council approved a downtown project that will turn two office buildings into apartments.

Elementary Coffee Co. celebrated its purchase of its North Street shop, advocating that more small businesses should have the chance to own their buildings. In our online story, the former owner, Matt Krupp, reflects on the extensive renovation of the building and encourages more community members to prioritize revitalization.

Harrisburg’s largest homeless encampment was cleared this week, our online story reported. Occupants packed up and moved on as the space will soon be impacted by PennDOT’s I-83 construction project.

High Dive Cocktail Bar in Harrisburg is featured in this month’s Bartender’s Choice column. Bartender Dustin Isbert shares his favorite drinks, in our story.

Joel Burcat, a local author, recently published a book that is co-written by him and his late father, our magazine story reported. Burcat discovered his father’s unfinished manuscripts and continued the story.

The Journey Theatric Sanctuary is a new ensemble that performs at HACC’s Rose Lehrman Arts Center. In our magazine story, find out more about the group.

Market Square Concerts began its 2025-26 season this month. In our magazine story, our writer shares the impressive schedule of music lined up.

Open Stage kicked off its 40^th anniversary season with performances of “Come Together: A Celebration of The Beatles.” In our magazine story, find out more about the show, which concludes this weekend.

Peach pie is the perfect dessert to finish off the summer by making. Our food columnist has a mouth-watering recipe, here.

Sara Bozich has a full list of fun fall activities for your weekend, here.

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Financial body accepts Harrisburg’s proposed five-year financial plan, outlines areas of concern

September 26, 2025 | by Lawrance Binda

Harrisburg’s MLK Jr. Government Center

A state-appointed financial authority has approved Harrisburg’s five-year financial plan but also outlined a variety of challenges facing the city over the next several years.

On Wednesday, the Intergovernmental Cooperation Authority (ICA) accepted the city’s five-year plan, which anticipates a series of balanced budgets “based on reasonable and appropriate assumptions,” according to the ICA.

The state legislature created the ICA in 2019 to help oversee and guide Harrisburg’s finances. As part of the legislation, the city had to submit an updated five-year financial plan to the ICA.

In accepting the plan, ICA Chair Doug Hill also communicated several areas of concern with the city, including:

* Revenues/cash balance. The ICA is concerned about falling values and assessments of Harrisburg property, especially downtown, due to remote work policies by the state and other office workers, which could result in reduced property tax revenue for the city. “As [Harrisburg is] Pennsylvania’s capital city, the commonwealth has some hard decisions to make about what kind of metropolis it wants to have as its seat of governance. Any reimagining of Harrisburg and its finances must include a full commitment to the city by state leaders, including diversified revenue sources and an economic development partnership.”

* Neighborhood Services Fund. The ICA would like receivables for the city’s sanitation services to be above 95%, a level it has consistently failed to achieve. In the recent past, the city has boosted collections by using American Rescue Plan Act funds to support unpaid sanitation bills for economically disadvantaged households, but relying on this “found money” isn’t sustainable long-term, according to the ICA.

* Economic Development Plan. The ICA welcomes the city partnering with CREDC and other city stakeholders to form a comprehensive economic development plan, an effort currently in the planning and fundraising stages. “Apart from its importance for the vitality and opportunity it affords the downtown and our neighborhoods, it is an integral tool for the city to build long-term economic growth in the face of future trends in city revenue,” the ICA stated.

* The Broad Street Market. The ICA stated that is concerned about “the slow progress and rising costs associated with the city’s efforts to rebuild the Broad Street Market.” The market’s brick building burned in July 2023, and reconstruction is finally slated to begin next week. In addition, the administration’s estimated cost for the work has consistently risen over time, now estimated at $23 million, leaving the city with a funding gap of about $14.4 million for the project.

Several of these concerns have been mentioned by the ICA in previous financial reports, including the need to boost trash collection rates and to formulate a comprehensive economic development plan for the city.

To read the full report, visit www.hbgica.org.

A Practical Guide to Choosing the Right Financial Advisor For You

September 26, 2025 | by Admin

Many people feel stressed when thinking about their financial big picture. The number of investment choices can seem overwhelming. You may have considered retirement, planning your children’s college tuition or just trying to invest your money so it works for you.

Choosing a financial advisor (FA) who can help you navigate the best path to money success should be the first step on your journey. However, not all FAs are as skilled or match your personality and goals. Knowing which one to choose can drive you forward instead of setting you back.

When Do You Need a Financial Advisor?

People sometimes make the mistake of thinking they should be wealthy to seek the advice of an FA. However, the best time to seek a professional’s input is whenever you need to map your next steps or invest more wisely. Certain milestones can signal it is time to contact a money advice partner.

Starting a new job
Getting a raise
Paying down debt
Retirement planning
Major life events like marriage, divorce or inheritance
Investing for the first time
Saving for education for yourself, children or grandchildren

You can always start making your cash work for you. An FA can assess your specific circumstances and align your goals with actions. Any time you stumble over the next steps is an excellent time to consult a professional.

How to Choose a Financial Advisor

Money management is a complex endeavor. You must figure out evolving federal tax laws and ones specific to Pennsylvania, pay attention to unstable markets, decide which investment options are in your comfort zone, and consider different life phases for long-term planning. A trusted professional can shoulder some of the stress and explain investment strategies.

1. Understand Your Goals and What Type of Advisor You Need

Before hiring someone to help, gain clarity on your financial goals. List the topics you need guidance on, such as retirement planning or an overall investment strategy. Since there are different types of FAs, having clarity on your needs can point you to the right person for the job.

Financial planners look at the big picture and create strategies related to savings, debt and insurance. Investment advisors manage portfolios and provide insight into the wisest places to put your money. Wealth managers work with high-net-worth individuals and offer advanced tax and estate planning advice. By understanding the specializations of each, you will be able to pinpoint the best type of professional for you.

2. Narrow Your Choices in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania

One way to prune your options is to utilize online tools like those at Fort Pitt Capital Group, with its advisor matching service. Instead of spending hours reading through various profiles and trying to find the best advisor in Harrisburg, you can use the free tool to narrow down your options and ensure only qualified advisors make the list.

3. Check Financial Advisor Qualifications

Once you have a list of potential FAs in your area, look for respected designations such as chartered financial analyst (CFA) or certified financial planner (CFP), which show the professional has completed a certain level of training and agreed to abide by organizational standards.

Use tools such as BrokerCheck to see employment history, certifications, licenses and potential violations. You can also identify violations through the SEC’s Investment Adviser Public Disclosure database and ensure the person has a current CFP or CFA designation.

4. Evaluate Experience and Expertise

Degrees and certifications only tell part of the story. You should also evaluate the person’s experience working with clients in a similar financial situation. If you need help with retirement planning, how many retirees has the advisor worked with? You can assess some of their skills by asking for references from their clients and looking at online reviews on Facebook and Google.

You could also contact the Better Business Bureau in Harrisburg, PA, and the Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General’s Bureau of Consumer Protection.

5. Consider the Advisor’s Approach and Philosophy

Most advisors list their philosophy on their website. Read through their bio and their description of what they do. Narrow your list to the ones that match your investment comfort zone. Do you want a conservative, long-term approach to investing or something aggressive? Determine your risk tolerance and ask the FA how they would approach investment decisions for a client like you.

6. Understand the Fee Structure

Before signing up with an FA, find out if they are commission-based, charge a flat rate or require a percentage of your managed assets. A few even use a hybrid model where they combine fees and commissions. The most transparent option is fee-only, because you know exactly what you will pay. However, the least expensive option could be a hybrid one. A commission-based approach ensures the FA has to work hard for you to earn their money, so they may perform slightly better.

7. Meet With Multiple Advisors

Gather your shortlist of names and interview FAs just as you would a job candidate. Schedule an introductory meeting with each one and utilize your time to ask what process they use to determine investing and how aggressive their model is. Pay attention to whether the advisor listens when you speak. Those who talk fast or use complex industry jargon may not hear your needs or be the best fit for you.

You should ask what aspects they cover or if another person in their firm can handle additional needs. If the FA only helps with retirement planning, is there someone in the office who covers education planning or budgeting?

8. Check References

If you collected references in the initial phase of narrowing your choices, now is the time to call them and talk to current or former clients about their experience with the FA. You could also reach out to a local friend if you notice they have left a review or followed the advisory firm on Facebook or another social media platform.

9. Trust Your Gut

You need someone you can connect with to get the most from your financial planning. The person has to be able to understand your vision and help you plan the milestones to make it happen. Some personalities mesh better with others.

Listen to your instincts, but consider more than personality when deciding. Which FA says things that resonate with you? Are they an active listener? Do you believe what they tell you? Finding someone you can trust and communicate well with is essential.

The Benefits of Working with a Financial Advisor

Knowing how to choose an FA requires time and due diligence. You might be tempted to figure out investing on your own. However, working with the right FA provides various advantages.

A personalized plan that fits your life stage and goals
Advice that comes from clarity and experience instead of emotions
Experience in investment management and tax planning
Accountability to ensure you stick with the plan long-term
Support and quick pivots as your life changes

When you develop a relationship with a skilled FA, you gain peace of mind that your financial future will be positive.

Taking Your Next Steps Toward Financial Confidence

Although finding the perfect FA for you is about checking off some boxes, it is also about finding someone you trust and who listens to your needs. When you start your hunt by knowing your goals and understanding the type of advisor you need, you can save time using tools that narrow your options quickly.

Financial success means navigating a complex investing world filled with potholes and detours. The right advisor offers a roadmap that gives you the keys to achieving your dreams. Begin your search and get a head start on the journey.

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Find a Neck Specialist in Hershey: Your Guide to Local Experts

September 26, 2025 | by Admin

Neck pain can be extremely debilitating. Whether it’s a recent sprain or injury or a long-term condition you’re managing, it’s crucial to get the right care. Here’s how to evaluate the best neck specialists in Hershey, Pennsylvania, and the surrounding communities.

What Type of Doctor Do You Need for Neck Pain?

Most neck pain can be safely and effectively managed, but there are some instances where it may be an emergency. Some injuries require immediate assessment to reduce the risk of paralysis, while pain accompanied by fever can, in rare cases, indicate a serious condition. Visit the ER or call 911 if any of the following apply:

The pain has resulted from a traumatic injury, such as a car accident or a fall
You also have a fever, severe headache, nausea, vomiting or a rash
You are experiencing numbness or weakness in an arm or leg
You have difficulty standing or walking
You have chest pain or difficulty breathing

You may wish to start with your primary care physician if you’re not dealing with an emergency. They can perform an initial assessment and refer you to specialists, such as:

A neurologist for nerve issues.
An orthopedist or neurosurgeon for spine conditions.
A physiatrist for physical medicine and rehabilitation.

Where Can I Find a Neck Specialist in Hershey?

When you do need specialist care, there are many excellent options available nearby.

1. Orthopedic Institute of Pennsylvania (OIP)

The Orthopedic Institute of Pennsylvania (OIP) has a spine center in Hershey and has been serving the community for over 50 years. It specializes in comprehensive orthopedic and spine care. It offers a multidisciplinary approach, with orthopedic surgeons, pain management and physical therapists available under one roof.

OIP prioritizes nonsurgical treatments for neck conditions, including physical therapy, cortisone injections, bracing, nerve blocks and medication. This results in 95% of patients not requiring surgery. For those who do, OIP uses minimally invasive or microsurgical techniques, where possible, for faster recovery.

Advanced diagnostics and a patient-centered philosophy make OIP stand out among Hershey neck specialists. Same-day appointments are available for urgent cases, with walk-in centers in Camp Hill, Carlisle and Harrisburg.

Key features:

Multidisciplinary team	Same-day appointments
Advanced diagnostics	50 years of patient care

2. Penn State Health Spine Center

Penn State Health Spine Center is part of Penn State Health, a leading academic medical institution. It offers comprehensive spine and neck care, including both surgical and nonsurgical options. It has served the community for decades, with board-certified specialists and access to the latest research.

Its Back Coach website provides helpful patient guides, video advice and a neck pain assessment quiz, with an emphasis on pain management and daily living. At the center, advanced diagnostics ensure a fast, focused treatment plan. Surgeons, neuroradiologists, physiatrists and physical therapists work together to decrease pain, while rehabilitation options include aquatic therapy, orthotics and bracing.

Penn State Health Spine Center stands out for its research-driven innovations blended with experienced clinical care and a patient-focused approach.

Key features:

Multidisciplinary team	Research-driven care
Back Coach daily living support	Aquatic therapy

3. UPMC Orthopedic Care

UPMC is a nationally recognized health system with a strong presence in central Pennsylvania and a walk-in orthopedic center at Arlington Orthopedics in Harrisburg. Fellowship-trained physicians use advanced imaging techniques to diagnose and treat a wide range of conditions affecting the neck.

Nonsurgical options include physical therapy, medication and nerve root blocks, with a conservative care philosophy to avoid surgery where possible. If you do require an operation, minimally invasive techniques are available. As an academic medical institution, UPMC can also leverage ongoing clinical research to inform the best treatments for each patient.

The institution is known for its fast recovery protocols and patient-centered approach. The walk-in center is open seven days a week.

Key features:

Research-driven care	Fast recovery protocols
Walk-in center	Advanced imaging

4. Hershey Orthopedic and Spine Rehabilitation

Hershey Orthopedic and Spine Rehabilitation specializes in physical therapy for neck, back and spine conditions. It is a direct-access clinic, so you do not require a referral from your primary doctor. Physical therapists use hands-on techniques to alleviate pain and improve neck movement. Therapy is also designed to prevent future discomfort.

Holistic treatment plans include attention to posture, habits and lifestyle, as well as cervical traction. Conditions treated include arthritis, degenerative disc disease, pinched nerves, herniated discs, and neck sprains or strains.

Hershey Orthopedic and Spine Rehabilitation stands out for its highly individualized treatment plans and its personalized, community-based care with a hands-on approach.

Key features:

Focus on physical therapy	Personalized treatment plans
Holistic approach	Direct access

5. OSS Health Spine and Neck

OSS Health, with locations in Gettysburg, York and Mechanicsburg, serves patients throughout central Pennsylvania, including the Hershey area. Board-certified specialists treat chronic neck pain caused by arthritis, degenerative disc disease, pinched nerves, cervical spinal stenosis and many other conditions.

The multidisciplinary team includes physical medicine and rehabilitation specialists, physical therapists and spine surgeons. Nonsurgical treatment options include injection therapy and interventional pain management. Should you require surgery, minimally invasive options are available.

OSS is known for its patient-first philosophy and rapid access to care. Same-day appointments are available, and the institution’s focus on nonsurgical solutions makes it a good choice for those seeking relief from ongoing discomfort and a return to normal daily life.

Key features:

Rapid access	Multidisciplinary care
Nonsurgical focus	Chronic pain management

6. Wellspan Orthopedics

Wellspan Orthopedics, with locations in Lebanon, Gettysburg and York, offers comprehensive spine and neck services, including surgery, pain management and rehabilitation. Its multidisciplinary teams benefit from access to the broader Wellspan network, and there is a focus on integrated care.

Convenient appointment times are offered, including evenings and weekends, and personalized treatment plans ensure that progress matches your needs and goals. The institution is recognized for its innovative technology and has pioneered advanced imaging techniques for spinal and cranial surgery.

The center can provide referrals to physical therapy and medical acupuncture, and it also offers medical marijuana prescribing. Where conservative treatment has not helped, interventional procedures such as epidural injections and radiofrequency ablation are available, with surgery as a last resort.

Key features:

Convenient appointments	Advanced imaging techniques
Medical acupuncture referrals	Medical marijuana prescribing

7. Lancaster Orthopedic Group

Lancaster Orthopedic Group is an established orthopedic center with a dedicated spine team. Its Granite Run location in Lancaster is open six days a week, with no appointment required. The neck care procedure begins with advanced imaging, including an on-site MRI. The team comprises orthopedic and spinal surgeons, physician assistants and physical therapists.

Physicians prioritize physical therapy, occupational medicine and pain management. Should surgery be required, the Group’s LOG Surgery Center is the most advanced outpatient center of its kind in the region.

The group is known for providing a high-quality patient experience, focusing on collaborative care and helping patients return to daily life as quickly as possible. LOG became affiliated with Penn State Health in February 2025, further expanding its reach and quality of services.

Key features:

Collaborative care	No appointment required
Advanced imaging techniques	Pain management

Comparing Local Neck Experts in Hershey

Each of these seven providers offers excellent care for anyone experiencing neck issues. Depending on your priorities, you may prefer one over the others.

Provider	Same-Day Appointments or Walk-Ins	Advanced Imaging On-Site	Physical Therapy On-Site	Multidisciplinary Care	Clinical Trials/Research
OIP	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	No
Penn State Health Spine Center	No	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes
UPMC Orthopedic Care	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes
Hershey Orthopedic and Spine Rehabilitation	No	No	Yes	No	No
OSS Health Spine and Neck	Yes	No	Yes	Yes	No
Wellspan Orthopedics	No	Yes	No	Yes	No
Lancaster Orthopedic Group	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	No

How to Choose a Hershey Neck Specialist

The following criteria are important when selecting the right specialist for your needs. It may be helpful to work through this list and compare and contrast facilities.

Location and Convenience

Consider the travel distance from your home or workplace. Check whether the facility offers walk-in clinics or same-day appointments. If they do not, establish how long you may have to wait for care.

Reputation and Credibility

Look for board-certified specialists and clinics associated with reputable health systems or academic medical centers. Consider the institution’s history and positive reputation within the region. Look at patient testimonials or review platforms, searching for reviews specific to neck pain or conditions.

Scope of Neck Services

Does the provider offer a broad range of treatments, including both nonsurgical and surgical options? Should you require surgery, are there minimally invasive alternatives or strong recovery protocols in place? Consider giving priority to clinics with dedicated neck or spine programs and advanced pain management capabilities.

Multidisciplinary Care

Multiple experts assisting your case gives you the best chance of an accurate diagnosis and successful outcome. Multidisciplinary teams for neck issues typically involve orthopedic surgeons or neurosurgeons, pain management specialists, physical therapists, radiologists, and nurse practitioners or physician assistants. Having access to all that expertise under one roof is a significant plus for your care and convenience.

Distinctive Features

If you have a particular condition, seek expertise in that specific area. If access to the latest research is important to you, prioritize centers with access to clinical trials and ties to an academic institution. Consider whether the center has shown leadership or innovation in its field and whether it has received any recognition or awards.

The Best Neck Pain Treatment in Hershey and Surrounding Areas

Choosing the right treatment provider is a crucial step toward relief and recovery. Whether you’re seeking a neck specialist in Hershey itself or are open to trusted providers across central Pennsylvania, you have access to a range of experienced teams and advanced therapies.

Take time to research each provider, consider your unique needs and don’t hesitate to contact centers with any questions. Your path to pain-free neck health starts with your confident, informed choice of a specialist.

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Elementary Coffee Co. celebrates ownership of North Street shop, developer reflects on rehab

September 25, 2025 | by Maddie Gittens

Andrea Grove, owner of Elementary Coffee Co., and Matt Krupp, Dauphin County prothonotary

“I think everyone thought this would be bulldozed.”

If you had never seen 256 North St. before it housed Elementary Coffee Co., you wouldn’t believe how business owner Andrea Grove described it.

“The back portion of the building had completely collapsed,” she said. “All of the floors were like falling in on themselves.”

That’s how bad the property, formerly two addresses, looked when neighbor Matt Krupp decided to purchase them and undertake an extensive reconstruction with no prior experience, and when Grove joined up to open a home base for Elementary.

“I got fed up with the sight of it,” said Krupp, Dauphin County’s prothonotary, who lives nearby. “It was a huge undertaking for someone who’s never done it before.”

In the end, Krupp, Grove and a team of contractors restored the historic building, and the property even won a 2020 Preservation Award from the Historic Harrisburg Association.

“It’s really cool that we were able to help save the building, and now we bought the building,” Grove said.

This month, Grove closed on the purchase of the building that has been Elementary’s home since 2019. The moment marks what she believes is an important step forward for her business and an example for other small business owners who want to put their name on their own brick-and-mortar.

And for Krupp, who said he was happy to sell to Grove, the milestone serves as a point of reflection for how blighted buildings, even ones in horrible condition, can be saved with some “grit” and a passion for your community.

Foot in the Door

Grove recalled the hard work and funding that Elementary put into the shop during the rehab. She helped guide design of the space, picking large windows to bring visibility and light to the shop, black countertops and lots of raw-edge wood features.

The coffee shop quickly became a downtown staple, adding to Elementary’s Broad Street Market stand, which closed in the brick building after the 2023 fire, but has since reopened in the market’s stone building.

Andrea Grove inside Elementary

“I’m really grateful that now all of the investment that we made up front is something that we get to actually have ownership of,” she said.

The building also includes two loft-style apartments upstairs and a small unit that has been used for short-term rental in the back, and will be managed by Midtown Property Management.

The purchase is significant for Grove. She views this as a chance for Elementary to have opportunities to acquire loans and additional revenue. But she also sees the ownership as empowering, a way to have better peace of mind and as a message to Harrisburg that Elementary isn’t going anywhere.

“Small businesses like this are what puts a property on the map, right? I think it’s very rare that they then get the opportunity to actually own the place that really is kind of making money for the building owners,” she said. “It’s already hard to predict your future when the world is so uncertain, so it’d be really nice if people were able to be more secure, at least in the space that they’re in. I’m really grateful that Matt was like, ‘we’ll work with you.’”

Grove recognized that most small businesses don’t have the capital to make a large purchase and was grateful for a loan from family. Now, she’s advocating for better opportunities for other local businesses.

“There needs to be some red tape that’s cut here and there so there are still opportunities for them,” she said. “You need to have somebody who’s willing to let you have the opportunity to get your foot in the door.”

Back to Life

The North Street structure has come a long way. When Krupp purchased them, the adjoining buildings were condemned and falling apart.

“Everybody in the downtown area had a key interest in seeing that property developed,” he said. “It was one of the few underdeveloped properties downtown.”

256 North St. before renovations. File photo from 2018.

Krupp purchased the blighted units from the Harrisburg Redevelopment Authority and got to work, which included completely rebuilding portions of the building. He had a vision of incorporating housing and a local business that would appeal to neighbors and visitors to the city.

“North Street is a wonderful blend of retail, residential and commercial,” he said. “I thought that Elementary would be a good fit.”

While the project was taxing, Krupp hopes that other city residents will take on the task of revitalizing their community—seeing how successful it can be.

“Don’t be afraid to undertake big projects like this,” he said. “This is an example of a building that was brought back to life.”

Krupp purchased the derelict building for $34,000. Grove has now bought the fully renovated property for $550,000.

The historic building was given a second life, and now, under her ownership, Grove is excited for Elementary’s future on North Street.

“This is actually a really beautiful story because it is, I think, very rare that this sort of thing gets to occur,” she said.

Elementary Coffee Co. is located at 256 North St., Harrisburg. For more information, visit their website.

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Weekend Roundup with Sara Bozich

September 25, 2025 | by Sara Bozich

Plan your weekend with my weekly list of things to do around Harrisburg and central PA!

What you’ll find ⤵️

For something new: New fall menu at Fire & Grain at the Hershey Lodge; Agape Elixir Bar is now open!

Worth noting: Last SoMa Block Party of the season TONIGHT (weather permitting – we’ll know by 2 p.m.); Harrisburg Symphony Orchestra is back; so is Tröegs Master of Pumpkins; WoofStock on Sunday

Things on my agenda this weekend: All Things Go (Noah Kahan edition) Friday; youth baseball, Found Collab Funeral; morning football; winery visit

🆕 Quick Weekend Links: Thursday • Friday • Saturday • Sunday

New + Noteworthy

you know, ICYMI

more on Agape Elixir Bar
A night out – and overnight, plus brunch – for 2 for less than $300!
The fanciest night of the year is coming soon …
See what else you missed on the blog
and check out the new “Extras” section at the very bottom

Sara’s Top Picks

for the group chat

Your must-dos for Hersheypark Halloween
💜 Join me for the Walk to End Alzheimer’s on Nov. 1!
📤 Share this with the friend who always asks, ‘What’s going on this weekend?’
👨‍💻 Submit your events for the Weekend Roundup

Sunday

Sunday Tea at the Willows | $ | Mechanicsburg
Sunday’s at Stumpy’s! | $ | Hershey
Sound Healing Meditation at H2L Studio | $ | Mechanicsburg
Kundalini Yoga with Keane Living at Consciousness Coffee | $ | Lemoyne
WoofStock 2025 in Riverfront Park | Free | Harrisburg
Grand Opening at The Mercantile | Free | Mechanicsburg
Harrisburg Symphony Orchestra MasterWorks 1: Symphonie Fantastique at The Forum | $ | Harrisburg
Winestock 2025 at Royal Winery | Free | Harrisburg
HBA Parade of Homes | Free | various locations
Fall Fest and Makers Market at Armstrong Valley Winery | Free | Halifax
Arts on the Square presents Alcee Chriss III, concert organist at Market Square Presbyterian Church | $ | Harrisburg
HYP Book Club: Moral Ambition at Pursuit Coworking | Free | Harrisburg
59th Annual Gem, Mineral & Jewelry Show at Zembo Shrine | $ | Harrisburg
Adam Sandler at GIANT Center | $ | Hershey
ARTS ON THE SQUARE GALLERY EXHIBIT OPENING at Market Square Presbyterian Church | Free | Harrisburg
Erica Lyn Everest Presents “Women in Music” at West Shore Theatre | $ | New Cumberland
Messiah University Wind Ensemble and Symphonic Winds at Parmer Hall | Free | Mechanicsburg
National Theatre Live: INTER ALIA | at MIdtown Cinema | $ | Harrisburg
THE LAST CLASS | One Night Only! | at Midtown Cinema | $ | Harrisburg
Court Street Cabaret at Open Stage | $ | Harrisburg
Oktoberfest Weekend at the Pennsylvania Renaissance Faire | $ | Manheim

Extras

Be the taste everyone talks about! We’re looking for partners to support Berry Bash as “Food Station Sponsor” – great opportunity for fun, engaging activation! Email me with interest!
Vendor applications are open for the (outdoor) SoMa Christmas Market on Nov. 30! Sign-up here! Deadline to apply is Sept. 15.
Save the date for Plants + Pints 2026! Sunday, April 12 at Strawberry Square
Want to share an ‘extra’? Email Sara with interest!

If you like what we do, please support our work.

Become a Friend of TheBurg!

Construction on Broad Street Market building expected soon; city weighs way to fund work as contractors are lined up

September 24, 2025 | by Maddie Gittens

Broad Street Market brick building

Construction is slated to begin on the Broad Street Market in the coming days, and Harrisburg is getting ready financially.

At a City Council meeting on Tuesday, officials shared that the city needs to come up with over $14.4 million to add to the current 2025 budget for the market, as they finalize contractors and prepare for an 18- to 20-month construction period.

Previously, city officials said that they would break ground by Sept. 30 on the rebuild of the market’s fire-damaged brick building, which burned in 2023 and has been closed since. According to Dave Baker, facilities director, the city still hopes that work will begin next week, but the exact timing depends on when contractors can start. However, he said he is hopeful that work will begin around that Sept. 30 date, give or take a few days.

“We are urging them to move as fast as possible,” Baker said.

As Harrisburg finalizes 10 of the 11 bid packages for things like demolition, construction, plumbing, etc., for the market rebuild, city officials asked that council sign off on allocating more money in the city’s budget to pay for and get that work started.

The only bid package that did not initially receive a response was for site prep work, which was put out for bid a second time.

In total, Baker and city finance officials have estimated that the Broad Street Market rebuild of the brick building, all-in, will cost around $23 million. So far, the city has spent about $3.3 million on the market, for things like selective demo and payments to construction manager Alexander Building Construction Co. and architect Murphy & Diffenhafer Architects.

As Harrisburg’s 2025 budget stands, the city has about a $14.4 million hole to fill to get the budget up to $19.1 million, the estimated remaining expense of the project, which allows them to finalize construction contracts. That money would then be spent over the course of the project.

At Tuesday’s meeting, Accounting Manager Brian McCutcheon explained that the city has proposed shuffling unspent money from other city budget funds, such as the state grants fund, capital projects fund and the city’s fund balance, to the general fund for the market.

What construction will I see?

If city council approves the budget reallocations to fund the market contracts, people can expect to see demo work begin first by contractor Power Component Systems at a cost of $425,673.

Baker said that, while demo was done previously to remove fire-burnt debris and decay, this round of demo would focus on structural stabilization. Some small portions of the brick walls may need to be taken down and re-bricked, and the entire building will be repointed. The building’s concrete foundation will be rebuilt as well.

Crews will also work on underground utilities, updating the electricity and installing a new, large grease interceptor tank that will service all vendors.

The roof will be torn out, down to the rafters, and in some parts, to the foundation walls, and a new roof will be constructed. All new windows and doors will be installed as well.

Baker said that the city is pushing to have contractors work throughout the year, even during the winter, weather dependent.

The temporary market tent will remain open through the entire construction process.

Some council members asked Baker why work on the physical structure has not begun yet, to which Baker replied that the behind-the-scenes process has been extensive.

“We’ve been planning everything out very strategically, and unfortunately, it has taken a long time, and I can tell you, my office has been working every single day on the Broad Street Market,” he said. “A lot of the time that’s been taken so far has been put into design and thinking out each step that needs to happen to keep all the governing bodies happy with what we’re doing and to really make the construction process happen the right way the first time and not have to go back to the well to ask for additional funds.”

Outside of a few contracts that are already funded, all other work cannot proceed until council signs off on the fund reallocations.

But what about insurance money from the fire?

Officials said that Harrisburg has already received about $4.9 million in insurance funds, but doesn’t know how much to expect in the future. Insurance money that the city gets, besides an up-front lump sum following the fire in 2023, is reimbursable, meaning that Harrisburg has to expend the money for project costs first and then submit claims after and hope for reimbursements.

“The business office is going to work very hard, with our outside entity, to get and maximize that return. We really won’t know, though, until we’re in the weeds on that, until we’re actually spending the money on those particular bills,” said City Solicitor Neil Grover.

While Harrisburg has a $140 million insurance cap for all of its buildings in the city, according to Baker, he’s not sure how much the market, one building, can receive.

Baker emphasized that the project cost is an estimate from construction manager Alexander Building Construction Co., which they determined before all of the bids were received from contractors. And, now that most bids have come in, the estimate was basically spot on, Baker said.

The $14.4 million would go into the 2025 budget, but wouldn’t all be spent before the year’s end. McCutcheon said that, while all of the money needs to be allocated upfront to finalize construction contracts, only about 40% would be spent in the next three months. The remaining 60% would roll over into the city’s next two years’ budgets for spending.

Where’s the city’s money for the project coming from?

Harrisburg proposed taking $9.1 million from the city’s fund balance, but again, not all of that would be drawn down at once. They also discussed using the $1.3 million of interest that has accrued from money made available from Harrisburg’s federal American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) dollars, millions of which sit in the city’s state grants fund. Grover explained that the use of that interest money is allowable by the federal government.

Harrisburg also received $1 million from the city’s portion of Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) money from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. Another $825,000 is expected to come from revenue from hotel taxes and PA street cut fees.

All of this money funds the work for the market rebuild and “gets those contracts signed,” Grover explained.

The city has not yet released information on the bulk of the contractors chosen for the job, as many are still being finalized.

Council moved the reallocation resolution to its next legislative session, which is scheduled for Oct. 14, but discussed potentially hosting a special legislative session on Sept. 30 instead to vote on it. That has yet to be scheduled.

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South Central PA Residents Invited to Spark Change Through Community Contest

September 24, 2025 | by Admin

Residents of South Central Pennsylvania now have the chance to turn their passion into lasting impact through SPARK!, a community contest from The Foundation for Enhancing Communities (TFEC) that proves everyone can be a changemaker.

“Philanthropy isn’t just for a select few. It belongs to everyone who cares about their community,” said Jennifer Doyle, President and CEO of TFEC. “SPARK! is about turning passion into action. By sharing your idea, you can spark change that grows far beyond one person. With the power of collective giving, your vision can become a permanent $10,000 fund supporting nonprofits right here in our region. Together, we create something bigger than any one person could achieve.”

SPARK! invites individuals across Cumberland, Dauphin, Franklin, Lebanon and Perry counties, along with the Dillsburg area, to submit an idea for a cause they are passionate about. Unlike traditional grant programs, SPARK! is not about organizations applying for funding. It is about people stepping forward to define the issues that matter most in their community.

The winning idea will become a permanent $10,000 area of interest fund at The Foundation for Enhancing Communities (TFEC). This endowment will provide grants to nonprofits that address the chosen cause, ensuring that one person’s vision creates lasting change in the community.

Past SPARK! winners show how one idea can grow into lasting impact. The previous winning cause focused on youth ballet, recognizing that children in South Central Pennsylvania needed more access to the arts. From that idea, and with the support of the community, youth ballet now has another financial advocate in the region.

This year, participants can bring forward new causes they care about. From after-school programs to early learning literacy initiatives, animal welfare to entrepreneurial tools, the stage is set for someone to spark change.

Timeline to Participate

Sept. 15 through Oct. 8: Individuals submit their cause at www.tfec.org/spark
Oct. 13 through Oct. 26: Public voting on all eligible ideas
Nov. 3 through Nov. 16: Final voting on the top five causes
December: Winner announced

SPARK! encourages broad participation by giving every resident the chance to submit, vote and rally support. By focusing on causes rather than nonprofits, the contest demonstrates that philanthropy is accessible to everyone and that collective giving has the power to create lasting impact.

For more information and to submit an idea, visit www.tfec.org/spark.

The Foundation for Enhancing Communities
The Foundation for Enhancing Communities (TFEC) inspires giving by partnering with donors to achieve their charitable goals and strengthens our local communities by investing in them now and for future generations.

TFEC has served the South-Central Pennsylvania counties of Cumberland, Dauphin, Franklin, Lebanon and Perry, and the Dillsburg Area for over 100 years.

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New transit center, downtown apartment conversion get city stamp of approval

September 23, 2025 | by Maddie Gittens

Rendering of the planned SRTA (Rabbittransit) facility

One very large and one smaller development project can take the next step forward, following final city approval.

Harrisburg City Council on Tuesday approved the construction of a new Cameron Street headquarters building for Rabbittransit, as well as an office-to-residential conversion downtown.

The Susquehanna Regional Transportation Authority (SRTA), which runs Rabbittransit, will demolish its aging facility on Cameron Street and construct a new Capital Region Operations & Maintenance Facility and Transfer Center in the same area.

Executive Director Rich Farr previously told TheBurg that the new facility would be more efficient and present cost savings, as the current building requires costly utilities and maintenance.

Construction will cost around $150 million and will include eight buildings built on 15 acres of land. The project requires that the Harrisburg’s Parks and Recreation facility move and that the current building be demolished. A new parks facility is to be constructed at 1002 N.12th St.

The project is projected to be completed in 2029.

Also on Tuesday, Harrisburg-based WCI Partners got the green light to begin renovations at 508 and 510 N. 2^nd St. The buildings were formerly offices, but have since been vacant. WCI plans to construct 11 one-bedroom apartments, ranging from 435 to 538 square feet.

Council approved the project by a vote of 6-1, with council President Danielle Hill voting against it, citing the project’s lack of affordable units, by U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development standards.

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Community Comment: Building for the Future at Crane Clean Energy Center

September 23, 2025 | by Dave Marcheskie

Dave Marcheskie

As we mark the one-year anniversary of Constellation’s announcement to launch the Crane Clean Energy Center, I can’t help but reflect on the hundreds of conversations I’ve had in the community and the variety of views on this historic project.

For some people, Three Mile Island’s cooling towers are an ominous reminder of what almost happened on the island more than 40 years ago. But for many others, like me, the towers stand as a proud monument to the resilient spirit of our community, and a vivid, enduring reminder of how the work performed here after 1979 helped usher in today’s historic resurgence of support for nuclear power.

After my time as a local journalist here, I joined the TMI Unit 1 team as site communications manager in 2017. With no nuclear technology experience, I was a little concerned about how I would be received, but the men and women who operated the plant were warm, friendly and I quickly began to learn the culture. I was very proud to be part of the team and I was there when the plant shut down in 2019. It was a difficult time for all of us. Many of my colleagues were forced to move their families elsewhere. Today, as Constellation works to launch the Crane Clean Energy Center (Crane for short), hundreds of families are coming back to the area, buying homes and enrolling their children in local schools. It’s been a blast to reunite with those people and get to meet those new to the job.

Here’s what I want people to know – Unit 1 and Unit 2 have vastly different legacies. Unit 1, the reactor we’re restarting, had a long history of outstanding safety and performance that transcended the accident in Unit 2. For 45 years, Unit 1 generated clean, safe and reliable power and earned high marks from the Nuclear Regulatory Commission, while incorporating lessons learned from 1979. Unit 1’s legacy proved that with the right safeguards and an unyielding commitment to operational excellence, nuclear energy is indeed the safest, cleanest and most reliable energy source on the planet. Our standards and technology have only strengthened in recent decades, and they are guiding our restart today.

I’ve also noticed some confusion around the restart and data centers. A year ago, we announced a Power Purchase Agreement, or PPA. In simple terms, a PPA is a long-term contract where a customer, such as a business, university or municipality agrees to buy electricity from a power plant at a set price. Crane’s 800+ megawatts will NOT be directly hooked up to a data center. The electricity generated by the plant will flow to the PJM grid and help ensure reliability for all. Without this landmark agreement, those megawatts would not be returning. And the jobs, taxes and economic impacts will remain here in the midstate.

For me, restarting Crane is not only an energy story, but a community story. Hundreds of local women and men are already on the job, with hundreds more to come. Local businesses are serving more customers. Tax revenues from the site will support schools, emergency responders and public services. And Constellation is investing directly in the region, with hundreds of thousands of dollars each year going to local charities, education and workforce development programs – that’s the fun part of my job!

I’m sensitive to the fact that some folks still carry memories and concerns from TMI’s past. That’s why my new job as Crane’s community engagement manager will remain rooted in openness, transparency and community partnership. We have a rare opportunity at Crane to leverage this revival, rebuild our local economy, build the tax base, improve community services and put more people to work. Let’s build our future together.

Dave Marcheskie is the Community Engagement Manager for Constellation’s Crane Clean Energy Center in Londonderry Township. Follow @CraneUnit1 on Instagram and visit the Crane web page to learn more.

TheBurg welcomes op-eds from the greater Harrisburg community.

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