Oh, That’s That Cantautor!: Singer-songwriter Sergio Figueroa makes his smooth voice heard.

August 31, 2017 | by Yaasmeen Piper

The soft sound of Sergio Figueroa’s voice drifted through Los Tres Cubanos.

The singer, whose style resembles a Latin Nat King Cole, warmly serenaded the Shipoke restaurant’s diners and even shook the hand of a restaurant regular while belting out a Frank Sinatra tune.

Eight years ago, Figueroa brought his voice, which he describes as “romantic with power,” to Harrisburg. He got his start playing local restaurant and house jams with fellow artists John Catalona and Patrick Murphy. He worked his way into eateries such as Suba, Rubicon and Bridge’s Social Club, then through the West Shore and cities across the country.

“I started playing everywhere—in private parties, different restaurants,” Figueroa said. “And everyone was saying, ‘Oh that’s that cantautor—the singer! the singer!’—because those guys saw me everywhere.”

Figueroa’s performances include a diverse set of covers from other Latin singers, American artists such as Sinatra, Michael Bublé and Nirvana, and a few originals.

According to Figueroa, his fans mirror the fusion of different cultures in his music.

“The music I make is not only for Latin people. It’s for everybody,” he said. “American people love me. Sometimes, they don’t understand my music, but they love my voice.”

One of Figueroa’s many accomplishments was opening for “La India,” known as the “Princess of Salsa” music, and for her collaboration with Marc Anthony. Another is the creation of the monthly “Latin Night” at HMAC.

“HMAC opened their doors all the time for me. I love it,” he said. “I love Latin Night at HMAC. And even though it’s Latin Night, everybody [goes].”

Felt Free

Figueroa started singing 21 years ago in his home country of Mexico. His first encounter with music came from his grandmother, whose ever-present voice floated through their kitchen.

“She sung different styles of music,” he said. “Eventually, it started to rub off on me.”

He sang anywhere he could—at home, in school groups, then local bars and popular cafés in Veracruz. Eventually, he recorded two songs there, one pop and the other salsa.

“When I sung for the first time, I felt free,” he said. “It felt like I was breathing real air for the first time.”

At 31, he fled his home country for America, leaving two of his three daughters behind. In the middle of the night, he and 18 other strangers crossed the desert into the states. Three days later, they made it to Arizona with only a group of 15.

“People believe Latin people come into this country to steal and make problems, but it’s not true,” Figueroa said. “You come here to work hard. You come to live the ‘American Dream.’”

For Figueroa, that dream has come at a cost.

Once, when Figueroa was talking to his daughter in their native language in a mall, a woman yelled at them to “go back to their country.” Declining a reply, he just nodded and kept walking. However, not everyone has used just words.

Even with his brother, Angel, already in Pennsylvania, Figueroa struggled to meet new people. So, when two men invited him out for drinks when his shift at a Lemoyne restaurant was over, he was happy to accept.

“They lured me to their house through the woods,” Figueroa said. “Out of nowhere, they just started smacking me, pouring water on me. The whole family. I kept asking them, ‘Why? Why are you doing this?’”

Though he ended up escaping with only a few cuts and bruises, he still lives in fear.

“I never make problems; I just make music,” he said. “But there are some people who look for problems. You know how the situation is now with U.S. immigration, so, of course, I feel scared. For the next four years, I’ll feel scared.”

Figueroa puts those fears into music, even if the lyrics belong to another artist.

“For me, everyone is the same,” he said. “You have a heart, you have eyes, you have love. Nothing makes a difference.”

Now, Figueroa helps others as often as he can by donating music and the proceeds from it. His recent donations were to the people of Uruguay and citizens dealing with inflated food prices in Venezuela.

Up next for Figueroa are more performances in Baltimore, Chicago and the release of his self-titled CD.

“The music helps,” he said. “It helps bring people together. I make different music so different crowds can hear the music. This is music for the world.”

To hear more of Sergio Figueroa’s music, visit his YouTube Channel and add him on Facebook to see his upcoming performances.

Author: Yaasmeen Piper

2 Centuries Afloat: For 200 years, the Millersburg Ferry has crisscrossed the Susquehanna.

August 31, 2017 | by Don Helin

The sun peeked above the horizon, casting a long shadow across the river as the boatman put his long pole into the water and pushed off the eastern shore of the Susquehanna River, careful to check the current. He loved the dawn. Silent. Peaceful.

In 1817, there were no fancy wineries or restaurants along the great road (now Route 11/15), no trains, no bridges across the Susquehanna River, and believe it or not, no Red Rabbit Drive-In. There were only a few houses scattered in the areas where Liverpool, Newport, Duncannon and Marysville are now. None of these early log homes would have electricity or indoor plumbing for another 100 years.

“Ferries were critical to farmers and trappers working the fields and iron mines of the land,” said Dennis Hocker, a member of the Perry County Historical Society. “The founders of towns normally reserved ferry rights for their own early transportation and income.”

Nestled along the Susquehanna River at the mouth of the Wiconisco Creek, just north of Berry Mountain, lies the Victorian hamlet of Millersburg, founded by Daniel Miller in 1807. Ten years later, Michael Crow established what would become a permanent ferry crossing, said Melanie Morrison of the Millersburg Ferry Association.

“Even though Mr. Crow may have operated the ferry before 1817, it is a written lease that establishes the date of continuous operation at this location,” she said.

The Millersburg Ferry, first known as Crow’s Ferry, is the last ferry operating on the Susquehanna River. It runs from Millersburg in Dauphin County to Buffalo Township in Perry County.

Two Boats

Today, the Roaring Bull V and the Falcon III continue the 200-year-old tradition of the Millersburg Ferry.

The hulls of both boats are built of white pine, and the bows of each boat have a covered open deck and a pilothouse. They are powered by 57-horsepower diesel engines with hydraulic systems. Each ferry can accommodate as many as four vehicles or 20-plus motorcycles. Walk-on passengers are most welcome.

Much has changed over its 200-year history, other things not so much.

When the ferry is running, it’s still the quickest way to get from Millersburg to Liverpool, taking about 20 minutes for the one-way trip of nine-tenths of a mile. Otherwise, the nearest crossings are bridges 29 miles upriver at Sunbury or 15 miles downriver at Clark’s Ferry.

In an average season, assuming favorable river conditions, some 20,000 passengers buy a ticket for the ferry. Most are tourists, though the Amish have long depended on the ferry as a vital means of transport across the river.

Year after Year

Over the two centuries, numerous families have owned the ferry. In recent times, Robert Wallis became the sole owner in 1972, and the Community Bank of Millersburg purchased it in 1990, donating it to the Millersburg Chamber of Commerce. The chamber formed the association to oversee the ferry’s operations, run by a nine-member, working board of directors.

“Some do the actual repairs and maintenance on the boats, and others take care of fundraising and grant-writing,” Morrison said. “Each member of the board brings a unique talent and perspective to the board, which keeps the board successfully operating year after year.”

The Millersburg Ferry Boat Association currently employs four captains, six first mates and one operations manager. They are all part-time employees, passionate about their positions.

Without skilled captains and first mates, the association would not be able to remain in operation. The association works closely with the U.S. Coast Guard to ensure the program is run in compliance with all rules and regulations.

“We’re optimistic about the future,” Morrison said. “Due to the recent retirement of Capt. Donald Lebo this year, who piloted the ferry for 27 years, we had to reduce the operating schedule from seven days per week to four days per week.”

This, he said, got the attention of the local community, and the board now has a number of people interested in becoming captains.

In August 2006, the Pennsylvania Historic Commission approved the nomination of the Millersburg Ferry to the National Registry of Historic Sites. This recognition celebrates the ferry’s significant historic impact to the state and nation. The boats themselves are not registered as historic landmarks as they are not stationary objects.

“I receive many positive reviews on our boats and crew,” Morrison said. “It’s a pleasure hearing how well they are all doing. Our crews make guests feel welcome and answer their questions regarding the history of the ferry and the general operations of the boats.”

If You Go

The Millersburg Ferry is located on River Street, Millersburg. It’s open Monday, Friday and on the weekends from May through October (closed Tuesday through Thursday). Before going, always check the website to ensure service has not been interrupted. The ferry also is available for private charters during off-hours in the regular season. For more information, call 717-692-2442 or visit www.millersburgferry.org.

Author: Don Helin

Stronger Together: Celebrating 5 years, Urban Snob has built a chic shop, a network of support.

August 31, 2017 | by Yaasmeen Piper

Stepping into Midtown’s Urban Snob, I felt transported to a New York City boutique.

From the outside, the store seems like your regular accessory store, but, inside, each surface told a story—from the landscape paintings and hand-painted desk made by an employee to the message wall hidden in the changing room.

“[Fashion and jewelry] was something that was always fun for me. It was a way for me to play up my personality,” said Urban Snob’s owner Dimitra Diggs. “I was just an insurance broker before doing this so, you know, in such a conservative environment, fashion was just a way for me to be more creative like my personality.”

Five years ago, Urban Snob opened with just a few accessories and “funky” handbags. Today, the store has developed into a full-on boutique with clothing to match its bold accessories, handbags (one filled with a rubber chicken and fries), swimsuits, shoes and a new line of velvet matte lipsticks.

Diggs is one busy woman. Besides running Urban Snob, she has a full-time job as an insurance broker, spends time with her family, and travels to Los Angeles and New York to buy pieces from her trusted vendors.

“I can tell by looking at the quality of the item, the uniqueness of it,” she said. “Is it something that is too trendy, like something that will only be in style for a while? Sometimes, I might get something just for fun.”

Cool Kids

Urban Snob’s store manager, Alexus Miller, said her favorite thing about the store is the atmosphere and the customers it brings in.

“A lot of people who perform at Stallions and the drag shows shop here, so that’s fun,” she said. “We get younger people, we get older women. It’s all a different mix, but all the people that come here are—cool. The cool kids shop here.”

It seems the cool kids work there, too. Though Urban Snob is their first priority, employees each have their own side artistry.

Miller, a self-titled “snob,” has a makeup business on the side. Josh Ari Selvey (the “urban” to Miller’s snob) is a visual artist and is responsible for the painting on the store’s checkout desk.

Diggs also partners with ResCare, a service provider dedicated to helping low-income communities, and hires their students who match Urban Snob’s style.

Staying afloat for five years may seem like an achievement itself for a boutique in Harrisburg. Consistency, perseverance and faith are what kept Urban Snobs’ doors open, said Diggs.

To mark the milestone, the Urban Snob team recently celebrated with “Snob Fest”—a beached-themed festival thrown in the back of the store, the release of a documentary about the shop that has amassed 11,000 views, and a partnership with two woman-owned businesses to give customers a new experience.

In the beginning of the year, Urban Snob welcomed Cachet Adams of Pampered Peacock Vintage and Sheena Lansanah, owner of She is Shic shoes.

A decade ago, Adams actually had a shop in Urban Snobs’ current storefront. Her first year of business proved successful, but in the second year, the recession hit, and customers became scarce, sending her business to a screeching halt, she said.

After shutting down the store, Adams laid low for a few years. Raising her son and working a full-time job, she still managed a few popup shops and home appointments. With her life coming back into balance, she was re-launching Pampered Peacock when she received a phone call from Diggs.

“When I first decided to open, she was a resource I sought after,” Diggs said. “I wanted to know what worked for her, what were her challenges, and what to expect.”

From their first meeting, the women immediately clicked and decided to add a section of Pampered Peacock Vintage into Urban Snob.

“Dimi is such a cool, down-to-earth, selfless, stylish, effortlessly fly chick,” Adams said. “Sometimes, I feel like she can’t see herself the way that I see her. She’s so sweet and so giving, it’s disgusting, but you just want to support someone like that.”

Sheena Lansanah met Diggs at a family barbecue. Lansanah thought Diggs would be the perfect person to speak at her up-and-coming Women’s Empowerment event. From there, their business relationship and friendship blossomed.

“Working with a friend isn’t hard when it comes to working with Dimi,” said Lansanah. “We blend well because there is no hidden agenda. I want to see her do well, and she wants to see me do well.”

She is Shic’s product line—transparent pumps, fur-covered slides and other unique shoes spewing with rhinestone and glitter—matches the tone of Urban Snob.

“I would describe our shoes as sophisticated chic, hence the name,” said Lansanah. “I’m very much a conservative woman, but I also like to be fly and sensual.”

Together, the young, black, female entrepreneurs empower one another while creating a successful and stylish store.

“It’s important to give these authentic images of black female unity because it contradicts the narrative that is put out there about us,” Adams said. “It’s so untrue that it is almost heartbreaking sometimes.”

This type of unity makes the pressure easier to handle, Diggs said

“We know how challenging it is, and it is frustrating, and those times when you need someone that can understand what you’re going through,” she said. “So, it’s good to have that support system, and I’m glad that I was able to build with this group of women that are all supporting each other.”

According to Lansanah, there is always a seat at the table.

“We’re stronger together,” she said. “I feel like if we can start to understand that and start that movement, we can get a lot further.”

The Urban Snob is located at 1006 N. 3rd St., Harrisburg. For more information, visit www.theurbansnob.com, the Facebook page or call 717-298-0434.

Author: Yaasmeen Piper

Sound & Artistry: Market Square Concerts pulls the string on a new season.

August 31, 2017 | by Lori M. Myers

“One piano, two pianists, four hands.”

That’s how Artistic Director Peter Sirotin describes Market Square Concerts’ first event of the 2017-18 season, which kicks off this month.

The diverse program from the Varshavski-Shapiro Piano Duo features everything from works by Schubert, Chopin and Mendelssohn to the symphonic grandeur of Brahms and Stravinsky to George Gershwin’s “An American In Paris” (the group’s own arrangement, by the way).

“In some ways, hearing ‘An American in Paris’ performed by two pianists sharing one piano may give listeners a glimpse into the composer’s original ideas and intentions, as well as offer familiar melodies in a new world of timbres,” Sirotin said.

He’s also looking forward to the pair’s transcription of music from the Russian ballet “Anyuta” by composer Valery Gavrilin, which is based on a short story by Chekhov about marriage and class in imperial Russia.

“Gavrilin has created a whimsical score that captures the spirit of Chekhov’s satire beautifully,” Sirotin said.

He said that he didn’t have to think twice about including the Varshavski-Shapiro Duo in Market Square Concerts’ new season. He’d heard the Astral National Auditions winner at the Chamber Music America conference in New York last January, and, he said, their sound and artistry “blew me away.”

So, Sirotin is clearly enthusiastic about the premiere program. But he’s equally excited about the other concerts in the coming season.

One takes place in November, featuring the Amernet String Quartet, which will offer a special program to commemorate the tragic events of the 1917 Russian Revolution. One selection will be String Quartet No. 11 by Shostakovich. Another will be the String Quartet No. 2 by Tchaikovsky, which Sirotin lists as one of his own favorite works of Russian romanticism.

“It is filled with beautiful melodies, elegant dance rhythms and spirit of poetry,” he said. “The Shostakovich piece is, in my mind, a perfect work reflecting on the tumultuous first half of the 20th century from the vantage point of the hopeful 1960s.”

The January concert is another that Sirotin describes as special, as it will celebrate the 20th anniversary of the Cleveland Quartet Award. As part of this award, Market Square Concerts, along with only eight presenters nationwide, including Carnegie Hall, offers a debut opportunity every two years to a promising young string quartet. Every winner in the last two decades has gone on to develop a major career, and some have even won Grammy Awards. Two former winners, the Jasper and Jupiter String Quartets, will share the stage at Market Square Presbyterian Church for a performance of the magical and exuberant Mendelssohn Octet.

“Mendelssohn composed this piece at the age of 16, which is astonishing, and I doubt anyone would argue with me if I said that it belongs in the list of 10-best chamber music works of all time,” Sirotin said. “That piece is also particularly special to me because I had a privilege of performing it in school with one of my mentors, Earl Carlyss, a former violinist of the Juilliard Quartet.”

As in previous seasons, Market Square Concerts will collaborate with the Harrisburg Symphony Orchestra and Messiah College on an artistic residency, this time featuring pianist Mark Markham. He will offer the community two performances of Ravel’s magical Piano Concerto with the symphony, vocal and piano master classes at Messiah College and a recital at Whitaker Center featuring Liszt’s Piano Sonata in B Minor, along with works by Scriabin, Rachmaninoff and Debussy.

“The reason for two master classes is Mark’s unique dual career as a concert pianist and one of the most respected vocal accompanists/coaches in the world,” Sirotin said. “Having spent two decades as a pianist of the legendary soprano Jessye Norman, Mark has tremendous experience and insight, which he will share with singers and pianists in the two master classes at Messiah College.”

Sirotin doesn’t have a magic formula for how he puts a musical season together. Sometimes, it has to do with the relevance of a piece to a historical anniversary. Other times, it’s just pure luck when he’s able to book a promising young talent right before a Carnegie Hall debut. But what is consistent is across-the-board artistic excellence.

“My aim is always to offer the right balance between familiar masterpieces, which seem to nourish music-lovers year after year, and music and performances which stimulate, as well as expand, a listener’s musical reference,” he said.

Market Square Concerts debuts its 2017-18 season on Sept. 24. For more information, visit www.marketsquareconcerts.org/concerts.

The Season at Market Square Concerts

Varshavski-Shapiro Piano Duo

Market Square Presbyterian Church

Sept. 24, 4 p.m.

Amernet String Quartet

Market Square Presbyterian Church

Nov. 11, 8 p.m.

Jasper and Jupiter String Quartets

Market Square Presbyterian Church

Jan. 21, 4 p.m.

Escher String Quartet

Temple Ohev Sholom

Feb. 25, 4 p.m.

Mark Markham

Whitaker Center

March 21, 8 p.m.

Calidore String Quartet

Market Square Presbyterian Church

April 28, 8 p.m.

Author: Lori M. Myers

Sunshine in a Pill: Do you need extra vitamin D? Or is it just hype?

August 31, 2017 | by . Rajinder Sahi

Are you getting enough Vitamin D?

If you’re a healthy adult, the answer is most likely yes. But like many vitamins and supplements these days, questionable sources and articles tout bogus benefits from taking vitamin D supplements—and potentially put your health at risk.

Vitamin D’s primary importance is that it influences how well your body absorbs calcium. If not enough calcium is absorbed, the body must take calcium from its stores in the skeleton, which weakens existing bone and prevents the formation of strong, new bone.

Inadequate calcium significantly contributes to the development of osteoporosis. Many published studies show that low calcium intake throughout life is associated with low bone mass and high fracture rates.

Calcium is also needed for our heart, muscles and nerves to function properly and for blood to clot.

The Hype

Vitamin D gets into the body three ways: sunlight, food and supplements. Sunlight on your skin causes the body to produce its own vitamin D—the reason it’s sometimes called the sunshine vitamin.

According to the National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases, adults should have a daily intake of 600 IU (international units) of vitamin D up to age 70. Men and women over age 70 should increase their uptake to 800 IU daily. Like any vitamins, the best way to ensure adequate intake is to eat a varied diet and receive proper nutrition from healthy foods.

Increasing exposure to the sun is not recommended as a way to increase vitamin D because it increases the risk of skin cancer.

Recently, websites and other sources have been teasing the public with ideas that vitamin D is a cure for multiple conditions from depression and fatigue to heart disease and multiple sclerosis. However, there are no studies to support these claims.

On the other hand, regularly consuming excessive amounts of vitamin D has serious health risks. Vitamin D toxicity can cause non-specific symptoms such as anorexia, weight loss, frequent urination and irregular heart rhythms. More seriously, it can also raise blood levels of calcium, which leads to vascular and tissue calcification, with subsequent damage to the heart, blood vessels and kidneys.

Deficient?

Most people in the United States are sufficient in vitamin D. Only about 8 percent of the population is at risk of deficiency, according to the Centers for Disease Control.

The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force found insufficient evidence to support routine vitamin D tests for healthy adults. People with signs or symptoms of vitamin D deficiency who have conditions that may require extra vitamin D, pregnant women, or people who live in a nursing home may require vitamin D deficiency screening.

So, who is most likely to have vitamin D deficiency?

Seniors. Their skin cannot synthesize vitamin D as efficiently, and they may not eat enough foods that have vitamin D.
People with dark skin. Pigment in the skin reduces its ability to produce vitamin D from sunlight.
People with certain conditions, such as liver diseases, cystic fibrosis and Crohn’s disease. Vitamin D is a fat-soluble vitamin, and its absorption depends on the gut’s ability to absorb dietary fat.
People who are have had gastric bypass surgery. Changes to the upper small intestine where vitamin D is absorbed can affect a person’s vitamin D levels.
People who are bed bound. Limited sun exposure can lead to low vitamin D levels.

In general, the recommendation for healthy adults is to consume between 600 and 800 IUs daily depending on age.

Ask your healthcare provider if you think you need more vitamin D. Vitamin D is naturally found in some foods, such as salmon, beef liver and egg yolks. Vitamin D is also added to foods and drinks like milk, orange juice and cereal. Milk products such as cheese and ice cream are generally not fortified. The best way to get the recommended daily allowance of vitamin D is in your diet.

Most people in the United States are sufficient in vitamin D. Only about 8 percent of the population is at risk of deficiency. There are no studies that show that healthy adults need vitamin D sufficiency screening or vitamin D supplementation. In addition, taking too much vitamin D can make you sick. If you think you need supplements, talk with your healthcare provider before you start taking them.

Dr. Rajinder Sahi is a doctor of internal medicine at PinnacleHealth. For more information about preventive services for adults, visit pinnaclehealth.org/phmg.

2 and Out? Harrisburg Council introduces term limits for mayor.

August 30, 2017 | by Lawrance Binda

Harrisburg Mayor Eric Papenfuse (left) confers with members of his staff following last night’s City Council meeting.

Former Harrisburg Mayor Steve Reed served seven full terms, leaving financial devastation in his wake when he finally left office after 28 years.

City Council President Wanda Williams says she now wants to prevent a future mayor from staying in office too long, accumulating too much power and thus endangering the welfare of the city. So, she introduced an ordinance last night that would limit future Harrisburg mayors to two terms.

“I don’t want that to happen again,” she said following the council meeting. “It’s not fair to residents or to City Council.”

The ordinance further would prohibit anyone who has served more than two years of a partial term from serving more than a single full term.

Mayor Eric Papenfuse said that, in general, he supports term limits for officeholders and might even consider them as part of a new Home Rule charter. However, he does not support this proposal because, he said, one branch of government cannot use term limits “to control” another.

“I think it’s unconstitutional as currently written,” he said.

In contrast, he said he might support a proposal that subjects all municipally elected officials to term limits.

Williams said that she might go for that.

“If he wants to consider council members, that’s fine with me, too,” said Williams, who, with 12 years on council, is the longest-serving elected official in the city government.

She emphasized that this proposal is not a dig at Papenfuse, who, in May, was nominated for a second term as mayor.

“If it had been (former) Mayor (Linda) Thompson, I would have considered it too,” said Williams, who placed the ordinance into the administration committee, which she chairs, for further discussion.

Williams took pains last night not to be too critical of Reed. However, the language of the ordinance plainly states that his longevity in office and consolidation of power created “a longtime imbalance of power between the legislative and executive branches of city government.” The proposed ordinance further asserts:

“The council of the city of Harrisburg hereby recognizes that this historical imbalance of power arose in part from the unchecked exercise of power by a prior mayor who, by serving seven consecutive terms of office, amassed extraordinary powers over governmental and non-governmental affairs within the city.”

In the end, it seems that Papenfuse and Williams may have grounds for a possible compromise.

“I’m not sure if it should be two or three terms,” Papenfuse said. “But I think there’s a benefit to term limits.”

Author: Lawrance Binda

Harrisburg Council Backs Police, Votes for Protective “Riot” Gear

August 29, 2017 | by Lizzy Hardison

A large group of residents tonight unsuccessfully beseeched the Harrisburg Council to vote against funding new protective gear for police.

A resolution passed by City Council on Tuesday will allocate $65,000 for the Harrisburg Police Bureau to update its protective riot gear, but not until the city takes steps to create a policing task force.

Thanks to a last-minute amendment by Councilman Ben Allatt, the police will not receive their $65,000 until the city solicitor submits an additional resolution to council. That resolution will call for the creation of an eight-member task force, which will address community policing initiatives, police training and the creation of a civilian review board.

Police first requested new gear in June of this year, saying that Harrisburg’s status as a capital city makes it a frequent site of protests. They also said that their current stock of protective riot gear is 25 years old and inadequate.

The $65,000 will buy 30 head-to-toe armored suits, with individual shoulder, hand, leg, chest and shin guards that can be detached and deployed as needed. The suits also come with helmets, shields and riot sticks, according to Captain Derric Moody.

Council’s 5-1 vote on the amended bill, opposed only by Councilwoman Shamaine Daniels, came after a lengthy public discussion during which many residents criticized the funding request. Some said that a “militarized police force” could agitate hostile crowds, while others called for police to invest the money in programs that would build public trust.

Hillary Henson said that the goal of policing should be to prevent riots from occurring in the first place. She suggested that the funds be used for training instead of equipment.

“Police have many ways of limiting protesters other than riot gear,” Henson said. “They can coordinate with community organizers. A less adversarial relationship would increase everyone’s safety, including police.”

Others spoke about what they perceive as the community’s widespread mistrust of the police force.

“We all know that there is a deep mistrust between police and community, and that’s our reality,” said city resident Amanda Arbour. “We want to invest in building trust, so use the money to provide training that the community has been asking for.”

Tara Stark Mueller said that the resolution should not pass unless the bureau holds open meetings with the community. Before council adjourned in July, Councilman Allatt asked Police Chief Tom Carter to organize public meetings with the mayor and representatives from the police force.

“If there have been meetings, I have been unaware,” she said. “To have this vote tonight would be a sign of mistrust between community and police,”

In private remarks, Carter said that he did not hold the meetings because Mayor Eric Papenfuse was on vacation. He said he would be open to planning them in the future if council requested it.

While the vast majority of residents who spoke on Tuesday opposed the funding measure, some said that protective gear is a necessity for any police force.

“We want our police to come home safely,” said Sharice Breyer, whose husband is a retired officer.

Breyer thinks that modernizing police equipment should be a priority now that the city has improved its finances.

“It’s time for our community to be on the same level as everyone else,” she said. “Officer Carter will have enough sense to know when to bring the riot gear out, and our officers need to be prepared.”

Jayne Buchwach, a resident of Allison Hill, made a unique request when she asked for more police on her street.

“You can get the gear and wear it in our neighborhood,” Buchwach said, pointing to shootings and drug activities as examples of recent crime. “We need police presence.”

Carter thanked the residents who spoke out against the legislation. He said their concerns opened an important conversation about the bureau’s community relationships. He then made a final case for why the police needed new gear.

Citing recent protests in Charlottesville, Va., where one woman died after violence erupted between white supremacists and counter-protesters, Carter said that police need to protect Harrisburg citizens from “outsiders” who join local protests. He added that since Pennsylvania is an open-carry state where protesters can lawfully carry firearms, the police need to take every precaution to keep the public safe.

“Charlottesville was bad because the police were not prepared,” Carter said. “If open-carry people turned weapons against the citizens of this city, you’ll look to police to do something. Our protective gear is to do that.”

After hearing final comments from the public, Council President Wanda Williams said that the resolution would “provide the city with the necessary tools” for facing hostile crowds. She said she would vote yes on the resolution, at which point Allatt submitted his amendment.

Under the amendment, the police will not receive their funds until council receives the resolution creating the citizen task force. That task force will include three community members (to be nominated by the mayor or council), two members of the city administration, one member of the Fraternal Order of Police, and two representatives from city council.

Council expects to have that resolution before its next legislative session on Sept. 12.

Author: Lizzy Hardison

So Much in SoMa: Downtown district prepares for its close-up.

August 29, 2017 | by Lawrance Binda

The heart of SoMa: S. 3rd Street between Market and Chestnut streets

What’s SoMa?

Even long-time residents may not know that SoMa stands for “South of Market,” a longstanding attempt to add some urban cool to a few square blocks of downtown Harrisburg.

Harristown Enterprises, which owns much of the area, is trying to add new energy to the decade-old branding and marketing effort. At the same time, it wants the public to see how far the once-blighted neighborhood has come.

“A lot has happened over the years,” said Brad Jones, Harristown president and CEO. “We want to show that off.”

To that end, the company recently installed new decorative banners, is stringing up lights across S. 3^rd Street and is throwing a big block party on Thursday night with music, food and drink. It’s a debut of sorts for an area with several newly renovated apartment buildings, offices, retail spaces and restaurants.

About 20 years ago, an Urban Land Institute study recommended focusing on these blocks as a special district for revitalization, as it was one of the few downtown areas that retained its historic character of small, attached commercial buildings.

In the early 2000s, that effort began in earnest with the creation of International House and Bricco restaurant. That was followed by Messiah College’s Harrisburg Institute, the renovation of several buildings into student housing for Harrisburg University, the repurposing of a few old buildings into high-end apartments and the construction of the Blackberry Technology Center from a long-empty, dilapidated former hardware store, among other projects.

Jones estimates that, over the years, about $20 million has been invested in the area that runs from Market to Chestnut streets between S. 2nd and S. 4th streets.

More projects are planned. For instance, Harristown has contracted with Harrisburg-based K&W Engineering to develop a comprehensive streetscape design that likely will include elements like new street furniture, greenery and stamped concrete accents.

Going forward, Jones said he’d like to see more boutique-style retail in the area, which would fit in well with the area’s restored brick rowhouses and small commercial buildings.

“It’s always had all the elements of a really neat neighborhood,” he said. “It just needed things to be filled in.”

The Night Light Pop Up Party, produced by Harristown Enterprises and SaraBozich.com, takes place 7 to 9 p.m. on Thursday, Aug. 31, on S. 3rd Street between Market and Chestnut streets.

Author: Lawrance Binda

Harrisburg gains new teachers, but the numbers still don’t add up

August 28, 2017 | by Lizzy Hardison

Benjamin Franklin High School on 6th Street in Harrisburg.

The Harrisburg School District has reduced its district-wide teacher shortage since the beginning of the summer but still began the school year with 12 unfilled positions, according to a district spokesperson.

Kirsten Keys, public relations coordinator for the district, said that most of the vacancies are at the 9th to 12th grade level, specifically at John Harris High School campus.

At the start of the summer, the district had 40 vacant teaching positions. School officials intensified recruitment efforts by holding the district’s first-ever hiring fair, which took place July 13 at the Lincoln Administration Building on State Street. The event allowed district recruiters to interview more than 115 candidates in person and via video call. Keys said that the hiring fair ultimately brought the district between eight and 10 new teachers, since not all applicants who interviewed met state standards.

She said that the district considers the fair “a big success” and plans to host another in 2018.

Teacher shortages are a perennial problem among districts in Pennsylvania, where the number of graduates from teacher-training programs has declined in the past four years. According to data from the state Department of Education, the number of newly certified teachers has fallen from 16,631 in 2013 to 6,125 in 2015.

As the number of qualified teaching applicants has declined, retirements have increased as baby boomers age out of the workforce.

Pennsylvania schools can obtain an “Emergency Permit” from the state, meaning that if they advertise for a position and find no qualified applicants, they may hire an applicant who has not obtained a Pennsylvania teaching certification. The candidate must have earned a bachelor’s degree from a state-approved college or university and must meet all other eligibility requirements, according to the Department of Education website.

Keys said that the district currently employs 28 teachers who were hired under an emergency permit. They will fill other vacant positions with short- or long-term substitutes that they find through a professional substitute agency.

Staffing a school doesn’t end with the recruiting and hiring process, however. Harrisburg schools have struggled in the past with teacher retention. More than 50 employees resigned last year, despite a new, district-wide mentorship program meant to promote retention.

Author: Lizzy Hardison

Plant Party: VeggieFest to take root in Strawberry Square.

August 28, 2017 | by Admin

Customers peruse goods at the HBG Flea in Strawberry Square this winter. Strawberry Square will host the first Harrisburg VeggieFest on Saturday, September 23.

Herbivores in Harrisburg, rejoice: the city’s first festival showcasing vegan and vegetarian food is coming downtown this fall.

VeggieFest, an all-inclusive exposition featuring plant-based foods, craft drinks and healthy lifestyle products, will take place on Saturday, Sept. 23 in Strawberry Square on 3rd Street. The ticketed event will also include demonstrations and speakers, according to Sara Bozich, an organizer.

Bozich said that she and Brad Jones, CEO of Harristown Enterprises, which owns Strawberry Square, have been talking for years about bringing a healthy living festival to Harrisburg.

“We wanted to do something new for the community,” Bozich said. She added that the event is open to anyone—vegan, vegetarian, or curious carnivore—who wants to learn about a plant-based, locally sourced lifestyle.

Bozich reported that she has received great interest in VeggieFest from local and regional businesses. The growing lineup (confirmed vendors are listed below) includes craft breweries, cideries, restaurants and vegan/vegetarian-friendly food providers, as well vendors selling handicrafts and plant-based body products, she said. Vendors will pay a $25 fee for a spot in the venue, and local non-profit groups can sign up for free tables.

Brendalynn Armstrong, co-owner of Zeroday Brewery, supports the locally focused lifestyle that VeggieFest promotes.

“The focus of this event is healthy living, and we at Zeroday believe that beer can be integrated into a healthy lifestyle,” Armstrong said.

Armstrong added that most of Zeroday’s craft beers are vegan or vegetarian, and all are brewed with as many locally sourced ingredients as possible.

The Vegetable Hunter, a vegan and vegetarian restaurant on N. 2nd Street, will showcase some of its vegan menu items at VeggieFest. Owner Kristin Messner-Baker plans on bringing side salads and sandwich samples, as well as craft beers from The Vegetable Hunter’s in-house brewery.

“We only serve a vegan and vegetarian menu so this is an exciting opportunity to reach out to people who may not have been to our restaurant and brewery,” Messner-Baker said.

Jones, who counts four vegans among his family members, said that he wanted to host a plant-based food festival after attending similar events in other cities. He believes that VeggieFest can raise the profile of healthy living in Harrisburg.

“We wanted to highlight that this city is vegan and vegetarian friendly,” Jones said. He hopes that at least 200 people will be able to attend the event.

The event was first promoted as the Harrisburg VegFest, but Bozich said that she and Jones rebranded to avoid confusion with vegan festivals by the same name.

Tickets for the event are $20 for the general public and $10 for students or designated drivers. Bozich and Jones say that the cover charge allows them to host an all-inclusive event that will also give back to the community.

“Your ticket price is going to get you a lot for that $20,” Jones said, referring to the samples, tastings, and entertainment available to ticket-holders.

Bozich added that the ticket proceeds will help cover overhead planning costs. She also noted that Harrisburg’s VeggieFest includes a philanthropic component: Proceeds from the event will benefit local nonprofit JumpStreet, an arts development organization in Harrisburg.

The Harrisburg VeggieFest will be held Saturday, Sept. 23, from 12 to 5 pm in Strawberry Square. To purchase tickets or learn more, visit hbgveggiefest.com.

Sponsors
Harrisburg Downtown Improvement District
Giant Food Stores
Weis Markets
Reiki by Rickie
Geico Insurance
Weis Markets
Healthy Grocer

Brewery/Cidery
Zeroday Brewing Co.
Boneshire Brew Works
2050 State Brewery
Jack’s Hard Cider

Restaurants/Food
Arooga’s Grille House & Sports Bar
VRAI
The Vegetable Hunter
Yak N Yeti
Supernola
The Fountain of Juice

Vendors
Grape Cat Vegan Clothing and Accessories
Free and Thriving
Kyle’s Cactus
young living essential oils
Renewal Kombucha
Animal Advocates of South Central PA
Harrisburg Area YMCA Center For Healthy Living

Author: Lizzy Hardison

Note, August 29: This story has been edited to include a quote from Kristin Messner-Baker.

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