Casual Class: The new Capital Gastropub marries old world and modern.

July 29, 2016 | by Stephanie Kalina-Metzger

Photo by Waxman Photography.

Jeffrey Utzman is on a roll.

The seasoned chef’s booming voice echoes throughout the restaurant as he bounces from one subject to another in rapid succession while discussing the concept for the Capital Gastropub, the newest restaurant in downtown Harrisburg.

Utzman’s passion is evident as he rhapsodizes on everything from the importance of filtered water to why he hews to using stainless steel and ceramic cookware and the meaning of the word “gastropub.”

“You could call it a hybrid, I guess,” he said, explaining the term that originated in Great Britain. “A gastropub is not quite a bar and not quite a restaurant. It’s a place where the atmosphere is very welcoming and attracts foodies and non-foodies alike.”

Experts tend to agree. Hillary Dixler, in her article titled, “Gastropubs, from London Trend to American Phenomenon,” wrote:

“For a working definition of the contemporary gastropub, Eater [magazine] turned to restaurant editor Bill Addison, who put it succinctly: ‘I define a gastropub as a casual establishment, usually boisterous, with a near-equal emphasis on quality eating and drinking.’”

To achieve that high quality, Utzman collaborated with co-owner Erik Sokhadze to create a brunch, lunch, dinner and cocktail menu. For Utzman, who has years of cooking experience under his belt, getting free rein to express his creativity in menu development was a lot of fun.

“The coolest thing for us was being able to play around with stuff,” he said, referring to his partnership with Sokhadze, who previously worked at the famous Russian Tea Room in New York.

Manhattan Elegance

Guests can start their day out with brunch options ranging from omelets to huevos rancheros to French toast. Lunch selections include salads, sandwiches and more substantial options like filet mignon or stroganoff. Those pressed for time can get in and out quickly with the “express lunch,” which changes daily.

Dinner options include steak, burgers, fish and chips, seafood, pork chops and Utzman’s delectable crab cakes, to name just a few. I sampled the famous Utzman crab cakes when he worked at 1794 The Whiskey Rebellion in Carlisle. I know of which I speak when I describe them as delicious.

“Our mission is to be as eco-friendly as possible and that includes using local farms and using sustainable seafood, as well,” said Utzman.

For budget-conscious diners, Utzman created a special, bar-only menu called, “Belly Up to the Bar.” For $5, patrons can choose from dishes like cheese and crackers, fish and chips, soft pretzels and shoestring fries.

“When I was a young child, the adults would say, ‘Belly up to the bar, boy,’ and I created the menu with that in mind,” he said, with a chuckle. “We believe in old-school prices available to those who dare sit at the bar.”

For those who prefer more refinement, Utzman offers his version of “high tea.” Meant to be shared, the selection of finger sandwiches, scones and petit fours is served on an elegant, three-tiered, silver serving tray, alongside a ceramic pot of organic tea and a side of whipped cream.

“Everything we do is centered on the goal of bringing Manhattan elegance to Harrisburg, even down to the details of the decor,” said Utzman.

A Renaissance

The spacious restaurant possesses a masculine, upscale, clubby vibe and seats about 120. Oversized booths done in black leather are ensconced in dark wood, which complements the brick-paneled walls and contemporary iron lighting fixtures. Sokhadze, with partners Anatoly Gutman and Vladimir Vladimirov, spent about $400,000 to renovate the establishment that formerly housed Ceoltas Irish Pub, providing diners with an attractive and comfortable atmosphere conducive to socializing.

No gastropub would be complete without a fine selection of adult libations. The Capital Gastropub has that covered with a selection of craft beer, cider, wines by the glass or bottle, and native and foreign whiskies. Cocktails, priced at $10, include the popular Moscow mule, a rich chocotini served with vanilla vodka, Godiva chocolate and Kahlua, and a Hemingway daiquiri containing aged rum, fresh grapefruit and lime.

Those who prefer to party beneath the stars can take the stairs or the elevator to the rooftop garden, where they can drink and dine al fresco.

Both Utzman and Sokhadze are looking forward to what the future brings as more people learn about the establishment.

Sokhadze said he fell in love with Harrisburg on his very first visit. When he and his partners discovered that the building was for sale, they felt they were at the right place, at the right time.

“This city has potential and is ripe for a renaissance,” he said. “We’re glad to be a part of it.”

The Capital Gastropub is located at 310 N. 2^nd Street, Harrisburg. To learn more, call 717-200-3155 or visit www.capitalgastropub.com or their Facebook page.

Musical Notes: A summer spin–get ready to boogie down.

July 29, 2016 | by Andrew Dyrli Hermeling

This month, we highlight three very different styles of music that all have one thing in common—they make you want to dance. And I think this makes sense for the final month of summer. Things are slowly going back to normal. Vacations are winding down. So why not finish summer off with a bang? Yeah, you might sweat a little, but you’ll remember how good it felt to really cut loose when you’re cooped up at home under a blanket next winter. So, if you can make it out to one or all of these shows, don’t be afraid to dance like no one is watching.

ANDY MOWATT’S STEELY JAM, 8/14, 6PM, ITALIAN LAKE: This concert wraps up Harrisburg Young Professional’s Italian Lake summer concert series. They’re ending on a decidedly funky note as they invite the virtuosic Andy Mowatt to play. A singularly athletic and powerful jazz-funk guitarist, his band is renowned throughout Pennsylvania for their entertaining and energetic originals, along with a wide-ranging repertoire of creative covers of rock classics. Mowatt also serves as a production musician for Lancaster’s American Music Theater and holds a degree in music and recording technology from nearby Lebanon Valley College. As with all of HYP’s Italian Lake concerts, this one is family friendly, and attendees are invited to bring their own blanket or lawn chair. That being said—with music this funky, you are liable to spend most of the show on your feet and dancing.

JUANITO PASCUAL, 8/18, 8PM, WHITAKER CENTER, $30: Flamenco is a sensual and exotic musical style originating in Spain. At the heart of this genre is the highly technical and mesmerizing flamenco guitar, and Juanito Pascual is known as one of the foremost masters playing today. Although he was born in the United States, he is equally well respected in Spain, a high compliment for a performer from outside of the native land of this quintessentially Spanish musical form. He has performed in many of the leading folk, jazz and world music festivals around the world and was even featured on Garrison Keillor’s “Prairie Home Companion.” There is something supremely magical about flamenco music, and nothing will transport you to the Spanish countryside like someone so adept at this extremely challenging style of guitar.

BUCKWHEAT ZYDECO, 8/24, 8PM, ABBEY BAR, $15/$18: Zydeco is an upbeat and uniquely Louisiana musical genre. And zydeco’s presence within the American musical landscape is largely due to the hard work and endless touring of Buckwheat Zydeco. He released his first major label album, “On a Night Like This,” on Island Records in 1987. Over the course of his career, he has played with a wide range of well-respected musicians, including U2 and Eric Clapton, and was a featured performer at both of Bill Clinton’s inaugurals. But he continues to be musically relevant, as he sat in for a performance with the Roots as Jimmy Fallon closed out his “Late Night” show before taking over Jay Leno’s slot on the “Tonight Show.” If you have never experienced zydeco, it is best heard live. So come ready to hear some of the best that the bayou has to offer!

Mentionables: Kenny George Band, 8/12, H*MAC Stage on Herr; Real Talk Collective and Justin Clauser, 8/13, The MakeSpace; Hank and Cupcakes, 8/13, Abbey Bar; Kenny Wayne Shepherd Band, 8/16, Whitaker Center; Ryan Kauffman Duo, 8/19, H*MAC Stage on Herr; The Robert Cray Band, 8/30, Whitaker Center

Learning to Dream: Good careers start right here–at Goodwill Keystone Area.

July 29, 2016 | by Kate Morgan

Jessica Greene and Jamie Ruth, recent graduates of HACC’s Cardiology Technician Certificate Program and members of Good Careers Start Here.

Goodwill Keystone Area has a rather unique approach to employee retention—it encourages its people to leave.

The Harrisburg-based branch of the national chain, known for its 100-plus year history as a thrift store and donation center, has pioneered a program called “Good Careers Start Here,” which offers employees the chance to attend continuing education programs—for free—and to secure higher-paying jobs with new companies.

One such employee is Jessica Greene, who is no stranger to hard work and difficult choices. For as long as she can remember, the 37-year-old mother of three has worked two jobs to make ends meet. When it became clear that her young daughter, diagnosed with autism, needed her home more often, Greene says it was a no-brainer.

“I needed to feed my family, give my kids the things they need, and save to put them through college,” she said. “But I also needed to pay more attention to them. They’re growing up, and they need so much support. I was so used to working two jobs, but I just couldn’t do it anymore.”

In 2014, Greene took a leap of faith, quitting one job and continuing her work at Goodwill as an aid to community members with disabilities. She also enrolled, alongside 11 others, in a prep class Goodwill was offering as part of a pilot program.

The students learned, essentially, how to learn. They worked with a career navigator to identify their skills, find a local program that would fit their schedules and career goals, and overcome any obstacles in the way of enrollment. Today, Greene is a graduate of HACC’s Cardiology Technician Certificate Program, applying for jobs in the medical field she never dreamed she’d be qualified for.

Ron Kratofil, president and CEO of Goodwill Keystone Area, said that “Good Careers Start Here” isn’t just about writing a check for tuition.

“In many cases, you’re talking about people who are overcoming barriers, and our folks had to be able to figure out all the pieces,” Kratofil said. “What about the family, the kids, the job? They need childcare. They need to be able to work. So, we help them arrange and afford childcare–we move people around and juggle hours. We do what we need to do to get people on board.”

Breaking the Cycle

The idea to send people back to school came from conversations Kratofil had with fellow members of the Pennsylvania Workforce Development Board.

“There has been a lot of discussion at the state level about what’s called ‘high priority occupations,’” he said. “There are employers in the commonwealth saying, ‘we can’t find people to fill these jobs, and they pay fairly well.’”

Kratofil realized that he had a “built-in pool” of workers who were already succeeding at Goodwill’s entry-level jobs.

“So, we started connecting the dots, trying to figure out how someone moves from having a job to having a career,” he said. “Most of these careers are in areas like robotics, manufacturing and healthcare—things Goodwill doesn’t have. So, in virtually all cases, we’re preparing our best employees to leave Goodwill.”

Jamie Ruth, who graduated this spring alongside Greene, feels that “Good Careers Start Here” has given her a second chance at her dreams.

Ruth said she was apprehensive about reentering the classroom after so much time away, but the prep class—and the support she received throughout her academic program—gave her the tools she needed to succeed.

“They were there through the entire thing,” she said. “I don’t know if I would’ve made it through without the prep. That’s why this program is so great. No matter what your level is, they teach you everything: how to budget, how to study, how to manage your time.”

Ruth’s experience has encouraged her husband to explore going back to school, too. Though he’s not an employee of Goodwill, the benefits of “Good Careers Start Here” are extended to an employee’s entire household.

“One of the components of this that I think is very humbling is you’re changing the trajectory for an entire family,” Kratofil said. “You’re breaking the cycle and improving things for the children and the children’s children.”

Can’t Wait

Ruth, who’s currently looking to put her newly minted cardiology technician certificate to work, plans to eventually continue her schooling.

“I want to be doing polystenography—sleep studies,” she said. “That’s my dream job. I think it’s altogether fascinating, and now I can’t wait. Now I know I can do it.”

Ruth and Greene are proof, Kratofil said, that the model works. This year, “Good Careers Start Here” will be extended to Lancaster, Lehigh Valley and Reading.

“We’re convincing people it’s OK to dream again,” Kratofil said.

He added that he doesn’t know of a more “thoughtful, comprehensive” plan.

“There are lots of folks in the getting-people-jobs business, but helping people move to a long-term career? There aren’t a lot of people in that business,” he said. “There is great opportunity, and this will be successful. There’s no room for an idea this profound to fail. It will get the support it needs. It will change lives.”

To learn more about Goodwill Keystone Area, visit www.yourgoodwill.org.

Photo: Jessica Greene and Jamie Ruth, recent graduates of HACC’s Cardiology Technician Certificate Program and members of Good Careers Start Here

Happenings: Our August Calendar of Events

July 29, 2016 | by TheBurg Editor

Happenings

Museum & Art Spaces

3rd Street Studio
1725 N. 3rd St., Harrisburg
717-385-3315; Facebook: 3rd Street Studio

“Guardians & Guides,” acrylic paintings by Dreon Olivetti, Aug. 19-Sept. 19; reception: Aug. 19, 6-9 p.m.

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

“Early Off-Roaders,” through Oct. 15.

“Mods vs. Rockers,” motorcycles and scooters, through Oct. 15.

“Steampunk U,” recycled gears and parts, repurposed with artistic and functional form, through Nov. 6.

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

“Off the Wall,” featuring sculptures by Mike Cerbone, Hannah Dobek, Jeremiah Johnson, Daniel Kalbach, Sean Matthews and Paul Nagle, Aug. 5-Sept. 1; reception: Aug. 12, 5-8 p.m.

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

“Student Juried Show,” featuring the artwork of Department of Visual Arts students, through Sept. 1.

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

“Somewhere: A Path to Abstraction,” artwork by Michele Taber, receptions: Aug. 5-6, 7-10 p.m.

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

Artist of the Month: Janice McCracken

Fort Hunter
5300 N. Front St., Harrisburg
717-599-5751; forthunter.org

“Downton’s Last Stand: A Reprise of the Fort Hunter Fashions of the Downton Abbey Era,” through Dec. 23.

Gallery@Second
608 N. 2nd St., Harrisburg
galleryatsecond.com

Works by Ralph Hocker and Sue Marrazzo, through Aug. 5.

Works by Linda Benton McCloskey and Paul Gallo, Aug. 11-Sept. 24; reception: Aug. 19, 6-9 p.m.

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

“Landis Legacy: Mary M. Landis,” a celebration of the life, legacy and community contributions of Mary Landis, PCCA’s benefactor of Landis House, through Aug. 6.

“Faith, Family and Community: Folk Art Links to the Early Pennsylvania Dutch in Perry County,” Perry Historians exhibition, Aug. 12-Nov. 5; reception: Aug. 12, 6-8:30 p.m.

Little Amps Coffee Roasters, Downtown
133 State St., Harrisburg
717-635-9870; littleampscoffee.com

Fiber-based work and woven wall hangings by Jenna Carls, through Aug.; reception: Aug. 19, 5-7 p.m.

Metropolis Collective
17 W. Main St., Mechanicsburg
717-458-8245; Facebook: Metropolis Collective

“Summer of Speedee,” Aug. 5-Sept. 30; reception: Aug. 5, 6-11 p.m.

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

“Tell Mother I’ve Been Good: Vice & Virtue in the Civil War,” illustrating the moral challenges faced by thousands of men in the ranks, through Dec. 31.

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

“Pennsylvania Watercolor Society Juried Exhibition,” through Aug. 27.

“2015 Youth Art Winners,” through Sept. 24.

PCCA Gallery
Perry County Council of the Arts
1 S. 2nd St., Newport
perrycountyarts.org

“Work in Progress,” highlighting the work of Savannah College of Art and Design student and West Perry High School graduate Emily Keniston, through Aug. 6.

“Dyeing for Peru,” featuring eco-dyed and ice-dyed silk scarves and textiles created by Marcia Labant of Luminous Nature, Aug. 12-Oct. 8; reception: Aug. 12, 6-8:30 p.m.

Rose Lehrman Art Gallery
One HACC Dr., Harrisburg
717-780-2435; hacc.edu

“Full Contact Bowling,” graphic design by Scott Laserow, Aug. 17-Sept. 8; reception: Sept. 1, 5:30 p.m.

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

“Working Together for Wildlife: Three Decades of Pennsylvania’s Nature in Art,” through Sept. 11.

“We’re Here: Pioneering LGBT Rights in Pennsylvania,” through Oct. 30.

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

“The City, Juried Exhibition,” through Aug. 11.

“The Luminous River,” works by John Pfahl, through Sept. 18.

“Recasting Nature: Selected Sculptures by Beth Galston,” through Sept. 18.

Suzanne H. Arnold Art Gallery
Lebanon Valley College
101 College Ave., Annville
717-867-6161; lvc.edu/gallery

“Con Spirito: Emotion through the Printed Image,” featuring printed images inspired by Irving Amen’s work “Con Spirito,” through Aug. 7.

Whitaker Center/The Curved Wall
222 Market St., Harrisburg
717-221-0292; whitakercenter.org

“Studio To Stage: 25 Years of Music Photography by Drew Wiedemann,” through Aug. 21.

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

“Art in the Wild,” a nature-inspired outdoor art exhibition, with installations mostly including natural materials, through Oct. 31.

Yellow Bird Café
1320 N. 3rd St., Harrisburg
717-635-8991; yellowbird-cafe.com

Works by Crissy Wagner through Aug. 14

Works by Elizabeth Campbell, Aug. 16-Sept. 11

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

“Between the Lines,” ink on wood by Ted Walke, through mid-August.

“Through the Seasons,” award-winning photos from the 2015 PA Parks & Forests Foundation contest, Aug. 19-Sept. 15.

Read, Make, Learn

The Astronomical Society of Harrisburg
Edward L. Naylor Observatory
670 Observatory Dr., Lewisberry
717-938-6041; astrohbg.org

Aug. 7 & 14: Public Observing, 8:15-11:15 p.m.
Aug. 21 & 28: Public Observing, 8-11 p.m.

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

Aug. 10: “Gifts from the Sea,” 6-9 p.m.
Aug. 18: “Cruising the Caribbean,” 6-9 p.m.
Aug. 31: “Crab-tastic Dishes,” 6-9 p.m.

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

Aug. 1, 15: Fredricksen Writes, 6:45 p.m.
Aug. 2: Coloring for Grown-Ups, 7 p.m.
Aug. 2, 9, 16, 23, 30: Master Gardener Plant Clinics, 6 p.m.
Aug. 5: Youth Chess Night, 6:30 p.m.
Aug. 6: Storytime and Music Therapy, 3:30 p.m.
Aug. 8: Twisted Stitchers, 6:30 p.m.
Aug. 9: Bad A** Grandmother, 1:30 p.m.
Aug. 9: Curl Up With the Classics—“Their Eyes Were Watching God,” 3 p.m.
Aug. 11, 25: Drop-in Story Time, 7 p.m.
Aug. 12: Family Movie Night, 6:30 p.m.
Aug. 12, 13: Safe Sitter Workshop, 10 a.m.-4:30 p.m.
Aug. 16: Fredricksen Reads—“The Aviator’s Wife,” 7 p.m.
Aug. 16: Gardening with Nature, 7 p.m.
Aug. 19, 26: Foreign Film Friday, 2 p.m., 7 p.m.

Healthy Living Kitchen
16 S. Rosanna St., Hummelstown
717-512-0077; healthylivingkitchenpa.com

Aug. 2: Root Vegetables to Curb Sugar Cravings, 6:30-8:30 p.m.
Aug. 18: Balanced Plate Class, 6-8 p.m.

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

Aug. 6: First Saturday/Free Drop-in Art Class, 1-4 p.m.
Aug. 13: “A Novel Idea” writing workshop, 9:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
Aug. 18: Heat Patina on Copper jewelry class, 6-8 p.m.

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

Aug. 3, 10, 17, 24, 31: Common Roads Youth, 6 p.m.
Aug. 6, 13, 20, 27: Weekly Meditation Practice, 11 a.m.
Aug. 9: Seniors Group, 6 p.m.
Aug. 11: Aging with Pride Lunchtime Discussion, 12 p.m.
Aug. 14, 28: Common Roads Young Adults, 4 p.m.
Aug. 16: Women’s Group, 6 p.m.

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

Aug. 2: Internet for Seniors, 10 a.m.
Aug. 2: Sci-Fi Writer’s Group, 7 p.m.
Aug. 3, 10, 17, 24, 31: Midtown Chess Club, 11 a.m.
Aug. 4, 11, 18, 25: Almost Uptown Poetry Cartel, 7 p.m.
Aug. 5, 12, 26: Nathaniel Gadsden’s Spoken Word Café, 7 p.m.
Aug. 6: Health and Wellness Meet-up, 10 a.m.
Aug. 6: Good News Café, 6 p.m.
Aug. 7: Intro to Internet, 1 p.m.
Aug. 9: Dauphin County Young Democrats Meeting, 7 p.m.
Aug. 9: Men’s Conversation, 7 p.m.
Aug. 11, 18: Camp Curtin Toastmasters
Aug. 13: Story time with Lisa, 11 a.m.
Aug. 13: Author Talk and Signing: Cooper Wingert, 2 p.m.
Aug. 17: Sci Fi & Fantasy Book Club, 7 p.m.
Aug. 20: Local Author Saturday: Amy Brooks & Tawanda Brown, 2 p.m.
Aug. 21: Midtown Writers Group, 1 p.m.
Aug. 21: LGBT Book Club, 5 p.m.
Aug. 22: Harrisburg Young Professionals, 6 p.m.
Aug. 22: Feminism Book Club, 7 p.m.
Aug. 23: Friends of Midtown Safety Committee, 6:30 p.m.
Aug. 28: Harrisburg Young Professionals Book Club, 2 p.m.

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

Aug. 12, 27: Letting Go! Paint Night Party, 6:30-9:30 p.m.
Aug. 17: Sea Turtle Watercolor Paint Party, 5:30-8:30 p.m.

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

Aug. 14: Community Yoga—Free Beginner Class, 10 a.m.

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

Aug. 4: Repurposed Junk and Upcycled Funk, 9 a.m.-4 p.m.
Aug. 9, 10: Fun with Watercolor, 9 a.m.-4 p.m.
Aug. 11, 12: Garden Sprouts Camp, 1:30-4 p.m.
Aug. 16, 17: Stage Combat Camp, 9 a.m.-4 p.m.
Aug. 18, 19: Nature Crafts Camp, 1:30-4 p.m.

The Studio by Absolute Pilates
1322 Saxton Way, Mechanicsburg
717-516-2062; thestudiobyap.com

Aug. 27: Free classes, 8 a.m.-1 p.m.

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

Aug. 6: Late Summer Morning Bird Walk, 8-10 a.m.
Aug. 7: Summer Morning Walk, 10-11:30 a.m.
Aug. 10: Stress Relief Walk, 6-7:30 p.m.
Aug. 13: Volunteer Work Day, 10 a.m.-1 p.m.
Aug. 14: Flower Walk—Heat Tolerant Plant, 10:30 a.m.-12 p.m.
Aug. 17: Preschool Storytime—Summer at Wildwood, 10-10:45 a.m.

Live Music Around Harrisburg

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

Aug. 7: The Shoji Tabuchi Show
Aug. 15: Styx
Aug. 21: Aaron Lewis
Aug. 26: Kellie Pickler
Aug. 28: Loretta Lynn
Aug. 29: Toto

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

Aug. 13: Hank and Cupcakes
Aug. 18: The Mantras & Aqueous
Aug. 24: Buckwheat Zydeco
Aug. 27: Solar Federation, Rush Tribute Band

Bucks Valley Winery
333 Meadow Grove Rd., Newport
717-204-7508; bucksvalleywinery.com

Aug. 6: Stan & Wes Hoke
Aug. 20: Irvine & Lewis

Buddy Boy Winery
111 Barnett Dr., Duncannon
717-834-5606; buddyboywinery.com

Aug. 24: Coffeehouse Open Mic (Perry County Council of the Arts)

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

Aug. 2: Daniel Sheehan
Aug. 3: Deborah Anderson
Aug. 4, 14, 18, 28: Anthony Haubert
Aug. 5, 10: Jessica Perla
Aug. 6, 11, 20: Corinna Joy
Aug. 9: Christine Purcell
Aug. 12, 23, 26, 27: Noel Gevers
Aug. 13: Ted Ansel
Aug. 16, 19, 25, 31: Chris Emkey
Aug. 17: TBA
Aug. 24: Maria Battista
Aug. 27: Roy Lefever
Aug. 30: TBA

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

Aug. 4: We Came As Romans
Aug. 10: Otep
Aug. 19: Frankie Ballard
Aug. 26: Local H
Aug. 27: Kurt Vile and the Violators

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

Aug. 5: Jim Steele
Aug. 6: Alex McQuade
Aug. 7: Chroma
Aug. 12: Dale Stipe
Aug. 13: TBA
Aug. 14: Charlie Fry
Aug. 18: Jamie O’Brien
Aug. 19: Jim Haas
Aug. 20: Doug Morris
Aug. 21: Kirk Wise
Aug. 26: Seasons
Aug. 27: Dominick Cicco
Aug. 28: Crimson

Flinchy’s
1833 Hummel Ave., Camp Hill
717-761-9000; flinchys.com

Aug. 3: Freddy Long
Aug. 17: Shea Quinn
Aug. 20: Chuck & Friends
Aug. 24: Phil Cannizzaro
Aug. 26: Freddy Long
Aug. 27: Jeffrey J. Walker

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

Aug. 8: Shea Quinn & Friends

Grain + Verse Bottlehouse
148 Sheraton Dr., New Cumberland
717-317-3044; grainandverse.com

Aug. 11: Indian Summer Jars
Aug. 18: Mark DeRose
Aug. 25: The Great Northeast

Gretna Music
Leffler Chapel and Performance Center, Elizabethtown College
717-361-1508; gretnamusic.org

Aug. 7: Jennifer Johnson Cano & Christopher Cano
Aug. 14: Lise de la Salle

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

Aug. 5: HCPAC Choir Concert

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

Aug. 14: Starling

Harrisburg Midtown Arts Center (H*MAC)
1110 N. 3rd St., Harrisburg
717-441-7506; harrisburgarts.com

Aug. 5: tgDivergence, Vetour First Friday
Aug. 6: Jon Hatchett Band & A.D. Chandler
Aug. 12: Kenny George Band
Aug. 13: Finks Constant & the Keystone Ska Exchange
Aug. 19: Ryan Kauffman Duo, The Whiskey Treaty Roadshow & The Wild Hymns
Aug. 20: Redd Panda, Mother, McClinton, Dylan Andre, Ill Fated Natives & Another Day Dawns
Aug. 26: JR Wolf
Aug. 27: Humandala & The Hair Cut

Harrisburg Symphony Orchestra
717-545-5527; harrisburgsymphony.org

Aug. 27: Symphony Stroll

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

Aug. 21: Celtic Thunder

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

Aug. 5: Vinyl Groov
Aug. 6: DJ Ray Rossi, Stand Tall Baby Doll
Aug. 12: The Luv Gods
Aug. 13: DJ Coach K, Stayin Alive, M80 Band
Aug. 19: Honeypump
Aug. 20: DJ Styles, Sapphire
Aug. 26: Funktion
Aug. 27: DJ Forest, Smooth Like Clyde

Keystone Concert Band
145 E. Main St., First Floor, Mechanicsburg
717-421-1512; keystoneconcertband.com

Aug. 13: Baughman UM Ice Cream Festival

Little Amps Coffee Roasters, Downtown
133 State St., Harrisburg
717-635-9870; littleampscoffee.com

Aug. 5: Les’ Bien
Aug. 12: Ellyot H. Ray
Aug.19: CHROMA
Aug. 26: TBA

The MakeSpace
1916 N. 3rd St., Harrisburg
hbgmakespace.com

Aug. 7: Chamber Music
Aug. 13: Jazz Night w/Real Talk Collective & Justin Clauser

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

Aug. 12: Nico Padden

The Mill in Hershey
810 Old West Chocolate Ave., Hershey
717-256-9965; themillinhershey.com

Aug. 2: Corinna Joy
Aug. 6: Funktion Quartet
Aug. 9: Darcie Miner
Aug. 13: HIP 450
Aug. 16: Josh Krevsky
Aug. 20: Troubadour Lights
Aug. 23: Jason Carst
Aug. 27: Ryan Moran
Aug. 30: Sherri Mullen

MoMo’s BBQ & Grille
307 Market St., Harrisburg
717-230-1030; momosbbqandgrill.com

Aug. 5: Back Rhodes
Aug. 12: Genesis Lorraine w/ The Start
Aug. 19: Skyla Burrell
Aug. 26: Christopher Dean

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

Aug. 6: Nate Myers & the Aces
Aug. 20: Kilmaine Saints

River City Blues Club & Dart Room
819 S. Cameron St., Harrisburg
rivercityhbg.com

Aug. 4: Mark Santanna and the Snake Oil Salesman
Aug. 6: Kat Hart, Norm Eberly Quartet
Aug. 7, 20: La Playa
Aug. 11: Blue Elephant & Friends
Aug. 12: 36th Annual Friends of Jazz Festival Party
Aug. 13: Don Johnson Project
Aug. 18: Shawan & The Wonton
Aug. 19: Switch Fu
Aug. 21: Singer’s Lounge
Aug. 25: Chris Auxt Band
Aug. 26: People’s Open Jam
Aug. 27: Steve Rudolph, Jonathan Ragonese, Peter Paulsen
Aug. 28: La Playa 4th Sunday Miami Fusion Dance Party

St. Thomas Roasters
5951 Linglestown Rd., Harrisburg
717-526-4171; stthomasroasters.com

Aug. 4: Brian Horton
Aug. 5: Mark Lubbers
Aug. 6: Gianna Palanzo
Aug. 11: Todd McCall, One Fat Cowboy
Aug. 12: Cotolo
Aug. 13: Matt Tenny
Aug. 18: Paul Zanngh
Aug. 19: Roger Hammer
Aug. 20: Craig Bonner
Aug. 25: Channalia
Aug. 26: Tim Zimmerman
Aug. 27: Orit

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

Aug. 5, 26: Shea Quinn and Friends
Aug. 6: Visitors Duo
Aug. 12: Song Smith
Aug. 13: Houston Baker
Aug. 19: A Perfect Storm Duo
Aug. 20: Josh Krevsky
Aug. 24: A Perfect Storm
Aug. 25: TBA
Aug. 27: Music Thru Science Lite

Strand Capitol Performing Arts Center
50 N. George St., York
717-846-1111; mystrandcapitol.org

Aug. 1: Sarah McLachlan

Suba Tapas Bar
272 North St., Harrisburg
717-233-7358; mangiaqui.com

Aug. 13: Nate Myers & the Aces
Aug. 20: Gary Brown

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

Aug. 19: Alash Ensemble
Aug. 24: Soundwaves: Pride of the Susquehanna Riverboat Concert

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

Aug. 13, 14: Allegro—American Fare

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

Aug. 16: Kenny Wayne Shepherd Band
Aug. 18: Juanito Pascual
Aug. 20: 3West, Summer Scouts, Citizen Cope
Aug. 30: The Robert Cray Band

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

Aug. 5: Shawan and the Wonton
Aug. 7: Rivers (Burgers & Beer w/The Harrisburger)
Aug. 26: Flower Garden
Aug. 27: DJ Bazooka 8-11

The Stage Door

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

Aug. 12: Terry Fator

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

Aug. 13: “The Frog Prince”

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

Through Aug. 6: “Mary Poppins”
Aug. 11-Sept. 24: Yeston and Kopit’s “Phantom”

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

Through Aug. 20: “Cinderella” (Popcorn Hat Players)
Aug. 12-21: “As You Like It” (Stage Door Series)

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

Aug. 5: Class Show—Intro to Musical Improv
Aug. 5: Harold Hour
Aug. 20: Crank
Aug. 28: Magic Fairy Pirate Monkeys

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

Aug. 19: Comedy Night

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

Aug. 12-28: “Vanya and Sonia and Masha and Spike”

York Little Theatre
27 S. Belmont St., York
717-854-3894; ylt.org

Aug. 12-21: “Side Show”

Growth Path: Cultivating crops, training youth.

July 29, 2016 | by Don Helin

Heidi Witmer is no stranger to the Harrisburg community, having grown up on a farm in Perry County.

She has always been a “hands in the dirt” kind of person—even when she attended college and taught in Japan, then worked with the United Nations in Rwanda. When she returned to Harrisburg, she taught in a private school, but became concerned with the lack of employment opportunities for her students during the summer months.

So, in 2013, she founded the Leadership, Education and Farming (LEAF) Project.

“I founded LEAF on the premise that youth are a good investment and can be powerful change agents when engaged,” Witmer said. “We hire youth ages 14 to 22 and place them in positions of responsibility on farms, working with chefs, and in educating and feeding the community.”

It’s been three years since that pilot year. So, how are things progressing?

New Beginning

LEAF begins the application process on March 1, when youth from Adams, Cumberland, Dauphin and Perry counties apply. Those selected start an intensive, eight-week internship, which runs from mid-June to early August. Historically, LEAF has received three to five times the number of applicants for available positions.

Since that first year, LEAF has developed four steps in the employment process. Youth who successfully complete the eight-week internship may apply for longer employment (Level 2). These employees will be the first-line supervisors for the new interns and work from April through November. The new interns are divided into two, 10-person crews with a Level 3 employee heading each crew.

“Sometimes, we encourage competition between the crews,” said Witmer. “For example, we have weeding contests. For those of you who have done much weeding, you know this is not an easy task. Believe me, crew members get much better at weeding over the summer competing against the other crew.”

LEAF now has one Level 4 employee. This person helps develop the program and participates in the administrative tasks that keep LEAF growing. The development of these four levels has taken a burden off the staff, but, more importantly, has provided a career path for the interns.

“Our goal is to create a healthy ecology within the youth crew, as well as on the farm,” Witmer said. “I compare these young people to a red pepper seed. There is potential in that seed, but the seed needs help in reaching its full potential. Will it be a successful plant or a failed pepper? All of this depends on cultivation, watering and sunshine. The same is true for our youth. They need proper training and motivation to reach their full potential, and that’s what we’re trying to do.”

Summer Growth

Over the past three years, LEAF has become better organized to take full advantage of the interns’ efforts and to help them grow.

On Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays, interns work on the home farm in Perry County, cultivating produce for customers and partners.

“The one thing that hasn’t changed over the three years is that, after a few weeks of this kind of work, the interns move with a new sense of pride, developing both competence and confidence through the work of raising and harvesting produce,” Witmer said.

On Wednesday afternoons, the interns participate in workshops in the outdoor classroom. For example, they might examine their lunch and trace the origins of each ingredient. This leads to a discussion about how our food dollars impact our community in positive or negative ways.

For many interns, the favorite day of the week is Tuesday, when they work alongside regional chefs making and taste-testing new recipes using the produce they have harvested.

Executive Chef John Reis of the Hilton Harrisburg runs an iron chef culinary competition toward the end of the internship each season.

“The interns’ challenge is to master five recipes composed of food grown at the farm,” Reis explained. “Then they must scale up the recipes to be served later in the day to approximately 100 people. The first year, the interns simply took food to the Salvation Army as a donation. Now, they cook the food and serve people at the Salvation Army.”

Diverse Skills

Thursday is “Partner Farm Day.” LEAF has six partner farms, where interns experience many aspects of agriculture, including fruit cultivation, milking and cheese and meat production.

“Spiral Path Farm is a large-scale organic produce farm in Loysville,” Witmer said. “I want them to observe the efficiency as well as the speed of the harvesting process at a farm of this scale and quality.”

In contrast, Piney Mountain Orchards is a one-woman operation. The interns help her with a variety of projects, such as planting, cultivating and harvesting crops, seeing firsthand the diverse skills needed to be successful in independent farming.

North Mountain Pastures raises pigs, cows, goats and produce. There, interns do everything from mucking stalls to making sausage by hand. At Keswick Creamery, a dairy farm and artisan cheese shop, interns arrive early and milk the cows, then, by the end of the day, see the cheese as it’s made.

At Three Springs Fruit Farm, the interns learn how to harvest cherries and peaches. The Ellerman Family Farm offers hard physical work as they learn how to gather hay.

LEAF youth now participate in an extensive rating session with staff and their peers, receiving feedback in the form of “positives” or things that they are doing well, and “deltas,” or things they need to work on or change.

“Many of the LEAF youth are now involved in community outreach and education programs,” Witmer said. “This includes providing meals and snacks from our farm to preschool programs, a weekly vegetable subscription program for local families, and feeding needy people through the Salvation Army.”

To learn more about the Leadership, Education and Farming (LEAF) project, visit www.leafprojectpa.org or email [email protected].

Improvised Lives: Personalities, ambitions clash in “Don’t Think Twice.”

July 29, 2016 | by Sammi Leigh Melville

First, there are chairs on a stage—the only prop you will ever see in an improv show.

Next, a montage flits across the screen, old black-and-white videos and shots of people doing theater warm-ups, the scene narrated by several people talking over each other to lay down the rules (No. 1: say “yes;” No. 2: it’s all about the group; No. 3: don’t think). The world of improvisation slowly starts to shift into focus.

I admit—I’m a little biased. I have immersed myself in the steadily growing improv community in Harrisburg for the past three years. So, when a film about an improv team pops up, my immediate reaction is, “I’m either going to love this or I’m going to hate this.” Will it truthfully represent the magical environment that improv engenders? Or will it fall dismally short?

It doesn’t fall short. “Don’t Think Twice,” written and directed by Mike Birbiglia, is a heartfelt glimpse into the life of an improviser. It captures the joys, fears and hang-ups that come from being a part of a group that lives and breathes improvisational comedy.

And it’s not just a film for improv-lovers. It goes out of its way to get the average Joe up to speed with the basics of the improv world. And it’s not just about performance—it’s about the performers.

The film revolves around a long-form improv group called The Commune—six people who live in New York, working dead-end jobs during the day so they can perform at night and do what they love best. They each have their own relatable insecurity or shortcoming to add to the story. Miles (Birbiglia) teaches improv but watches student after student surpass him in success. Bill (Chris Gethard) struggles with his relationship with his career-driven father. Lindsay (Tami Sagher) tries to separate herself from the trust-fund stigma that is derived from living with her parents. Allison (Kate Micucci) allows her fear of failure to keep her from finishing her graphic novel.

Some of them want to use The Commune as a jumping-off point for bigger things, such as being cast on the fictional TV show “Weekend Live.” The members of The Commune constantly criticize the show (a thinly veiled “Saturday Night Live”), but they all want to be on it.

Jack (Keegan-Michael Key) desperately wants to make it onto “Weekend Live,” so much so that he will compromise a show to pull it off. When a representative from “Weekend Live” comes to their next show, Jack and Sam (Gillian Jacobs) both get called in for an audition. This causes a rift in the group. They try to be supportive of their teammates, but the underbelly of their tight-knit relationship begins to show.

The beauty of this story is that it doesn’t try to overdramatize the characters’ relationships. They are pretty honest with each other and genuinely care about each other, though they each have their own tightrope to walk. The film does come to a head a little too neatly to be realistic, but the aftermath of the crisis holds true. The cast works seamlessly together, setting each other up for bits and generally acting like they’ve spent years working together.

Birbiglia has crafted a great film. Whether you’re a fan of improv or not, “Don’t Think Twice” will win your heart. Coming soon to Midtown Cinema.

Midtown Cinema
AUGUST SPECIAL EVENTS

Free Outdoor Film Series
“Hook”
Friday, Aug. 5, dusk

“Goonies”
Friday, Aug. 26, dusk

The Late Shift with Zeroday
“Dazed and Confused”
Saturday, Aug. 6, 10:30 p.m.

VidJam
Filmmaking Weekend: Aug. 5-7
Screening: Aug. 14

Down in Front!
“Killer School Girls from Outer Space”
Friday, Aug. 12, 9:30 p.m.

Classic Film Series
“Goodbye Mr. Chips”
Sunday, Aug. 14, 6 p.m.

3^rd in the Burg $3 Movie
“Heathers”
Friday, Aug. 19, 9:30 p.m.

Faulkner Honda Family Film Series
“Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets”
Saturday, Aug. 20, 12 p.m.
Sunday, Aug. 21, 2 p.m.

15^th Anniversary Series
“An Education”
Saturday, Aug. 27, 8 p.m.

Market Hop: Escape the grocery store grind at Adams-Ricci Farmers Market.

July 29, 2016 | by Courtney Gontz

Crowded aisles, kids crying in shopping carts because their parents didn’t buy them the right cereal and long checkout lines.

I’m talking about grocery shopping. No one really likes it, but, unfortunately, it’s necessary. If you’re like me, you spend a lot of time in the produce aisle searching for good-looking fruits and veggies, often with little success.

Finally, I had enough. I needed to look elsewhere. The Adams-Ricci Farmers Market provided a wonderful, close-in alternative, a small market consisting of about 12 vendors that sets up every Thursday in the parking lot across from Adams-Ricci Community Park in East Pennsboro Township just outside Enola.

My experience couldn’t have been more different than the supermarket. As I arrived, live music was playing, and there was no crowd rushing me through as I slowly wandered around deciding which stand to check out first.

With a quick scan, I saw everything from fresh baked goods to ice cream to produce to wine. As I walked up to the first stand, a woman with a warm, welcoming smile greeted me. Despite the powerful winds, Brenda Baumgardner stood proud with her fresh produce and her daughter’s baked goods and granola.

Baumgardner and her husband have been gardening for 30 years. They live in the Dillsburg area and started small by bringing their produce into work for their coworkers. After some research, the two began selling at local farmers markets. This is their first year at Adams-Ricci, and, Baumgardner said, it’s been a learning experience for her.

“Since the market is open later than the other ones we to go to, I pick things right before I leave and try not to bring too much so it stays fresh,” she said.

Baumgardner loves meeting new people and often talks to shoppers about the importance of supporting local agriculture. Whether you simply like fresh produce because it tastes better, or you’re on a restricted diet, she’s there ready to help you out.

For Seppi Garrett, the birth of his children got him thinking about growing organically and supporting local farmers.

“Growing as much of our own food as possible and purchasing the rest from local farmers who are tending their own soil is probably the biggest form of activism we can make,” he said.

Garrett works for Three Springs Fruit Farm, a sixth-generation, diverse farm and orchard in Adams County. The orchard uses “integrated pest management,” which means that farmers study environmental conditions to determine what is causing pests such as insects, animals and fungi. This method “decreases their dependency on chemical sprays and holds them to be more creative and use natural approaches to pest management,” Garrett said.

Jennifer Casey of Enola and her two kids were visiting the market for the second time this year. She said she first heard about the market via Facebook. For them, farmers markets are a way to explore and to continue to show support for local agriculture.

“I love bringing my kids here and encouraging them to try new things they’ve never tried before,” she said. “My kids have definitely learned to eat better, and I think it’s important that others learn the importance of eating fresh, as well.”

The concept behind the market is easy—to “provide access to fresh, local food choices and support local farmers,” said Tara Altland, market manager. Known as Farmers on Walnut until it relocated to Adams-Ricci Park in 2015, the market is producer-only, and all sources are located within 50 miles of the market.

The market’s hours are bit untraditional—every Thursday from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m.—but that seems to work for shoppers.

“The hours allow those who work during the day to stop by on their way home from work and grab dinner,” Altland said.

Walking around the market and getting to know the vendors made my shopping experience special. Everyone was ready to answer questions about their products or talk about the importance of supporting area farmers.

“When it comes to local produce, you just can’t beat it,” Baumgardner said.

Adams-Ricci Farmers Market is located 100 E. Penn Dr., Enola. It is open every Thursday, 3 to 7 p.m., until Oct. 27. To learn more, visit www.adamsriccifarmersmarket.org.

A Safe Commute: Teach your kids the ABCs of traveling to and from school safely.

July 29, 2016 | by Dr. Brittany Ann Massare

Mornings during the school year are crazy in most households: sleeping through alarms, packing lunches, remembering homework, rushing to get to work and school on time.

A topic that is rarely discussed is safety during trips to school. In 2007, research showed that, during one school year, 815 student deaths and more than 150,000 injuries occurred during normal school travel hours. These deaths and injuries occur during incidents involving passenger vehicles driven by adults and teens, walking, bicycling, and entering and exiting school buses.

What are some ways we can help our children be safe on their trips to school? Before turning on the car, walk around it to be sure no children are around. About 2,500 children (ages 1 to 14) go to the emergency room every year due to injuries from cars backing up around them. When driving, take extra precautions in residential areas and in school zones during school commute times. Remember—children move in unpredictable ways. When parked, your car and trunk should always be locked so children playing around the area do not become trapped in the vehicle.

Adults should accompany children who walk to school until at least 10 years old, sometimes longer. Consider organizing a neighborhood group in which one adult walks with the children each day. Review with your children the importance of looking left, right, then left again before crossing the street and the importance of always walking across a street, never running. Children should also be encouraged to cross a street at a corner with a crossing guard or, if one is not available, at a crosswalk or traffic signal. They should try to follow routes to school with sidewalks or designated walking areas so they are not in the street.

For children riding a bus, discuss looking both ways before crossing the street to be sure traffic has stopped for the school bus. Children should also walk around the school bus where they are able to see the bus driver. It is recommended that parents show their children a safe place to stand while waiting for the school bus, including where to stand if a car around them starts to move and to wait to approach the school bus until after it stops.

If children bike to school, always have them wear a proper fitting helmet, ride on the side of the road where they will be going the same direction as traffic, be aware of and obey traffic laws, and wear bright-colored clothing.

These are just a few of the many ways to help protect your children on their way to and from school. For both parents and children, be alert to your surroundings and take your time while commuting.

Dr. Brittany Ann Massare is a pediatrician with Penn State Hershey Medical Group.

Student Scribes: “Catching Up with Alt Band, Citizen”

July 29, 2016 | by Patrick Schmitt

Squeezed in the middle of the sold out crowd for my favorite band, I knew if one of us were to move we’d all go down like dominoes. The smell of booze reeked throughout the room along with its companion found at any rock concert, marijuana. This didn’t bother me, and, for once, intoxicated and drugged fans provided a lovely scenery. Nothing could ruin my enthusiasm for the night ahead.

Tonight, Citizen would kick off the second date of the “Juturna Ten Year Anniversary Tour” in celebration of the Post-Hardcore/Alternative Rock band Circa Survive’s first album, “Juturna.” The five guys who comprised Citizen (Mat Kerekes, Jake Duhaime, Ryland Oehlers, Eric Hamm and Nick Hamm) were in second grade when this album dropped, and some hadn’t even heard of Circa Survive.

Citizen opened with “Cement,” the first single off their sophomore album, “Everybody Is Going To Heaven.” A steady drum beat and low bass elements accompanied lead vocalist Mat Kerekes, whose hushed words broadcasted a whisper effect: “If I’m, if I’m flawed, then you’re perfect, my only. If I’m, if I’m a liar, then you’re blameless, my only. If I’m, if I’m hanging by a thread, then you’re infinite. If I’m a saint, then you’re heaven, my only.” And with a drum roll on the snare, the song blasted into its chorus. Kerekes bellowed, “Cement for all of our teeth. I’ll give you myself any day.” I wondered what it would be like sitting behind that kit on stage, playing for people who came to hear my music?

I asked Jake Duhaime, Citizen’s drummer. “Honestly, I don’t like playing the drums. They’re expensive. They bring me a lot of grief. I feel like I have to spend twice the amount of energy as everyone around me. It’s stressful,” Jake said. “But, I have a profound love for them all the same. Everything I know is because of drumming in some form or another.” My drum teacher, Wade, gave me the most interesting response about drumming: “I’m a 45-year-old kid, and I hit things for a living. It’s fun!”

As I watched Citizen, the familiar drumbeat to their song “Stain” rose above the din, a heavy kick drumbeat proceeded by an eerie guitar rift. Kerekes delivered harshed vocals, an assortment of strained and painful screams. The song’s hook, similar to Cement’s consistent drumbeat, featured a powerful drum roll from the snare that called attention to the chorus. “Let your garden grow, my eyes still twitch for nothing. Loosen your empty hands, my heart still beats for nothing.”

Jake noted this as his favorite song to play live. “It’s no bullshit,” Jake said. “It’s heavy. It’s aggressive. It’s hypnotic. I feel like I am proving something whenever we are plowing through that song.” I understood Jake’s passion, also being able to play “Stain” on my own kit. “Stain” was different from any other song Citizen had previously released, a powerhouse in their set list when performing.

Jake wasn’t Citizen’s first drummer, so how did he join? “I actually met Nick, Citizen’s guitarist, when they asked my other band, Freedom, to play the ‘Youth’ record release show for them. We had a very pleasant/brief encounter that I guess stuck with him. I didn’t meet the rest [of the band] until right around my first practice,” Jake said. “They seemed like nice guys, and that’s all I really cared about.”

Jake’s been playing the drums for 15 years, and, at the moment, he’s involved in about half-a-dozen projects that range from “casual to serious.”

“You always have to be creating. It shouldn’t be like a job, you want to be doing as much as you can,” Jake said. When I asked Wade how many musical projects he’d been involved with, he said he had been professionally playing since he was 13. Right now, he considered himself a “drum for hire,” playing for any gig that’s in need of a good drummer.

I watched Citizen finish up their set with “The Summer,” an angst-filled song that depicts someone who desperately tries to escape from somebody else’s manipulative ways and painful presence—but can’t. Its second verse sets the scene: “You said you’d stay, and you promised. I finally see you out. Why’d you wait for the summer to chew and spit me out? I sit awake and wait patiently. The same mistakes are waiting to be made. And I felt something that is in me change, when I followed you down.” Rx Bandits took the stage next, bringing an entirely new sound to the room, a groovy sound, compelling everybody to have fun time before the legendary Circa Survive were welcomed to the stage. Circa Survive originated in the suburbs of Doylestown, Pa., the prime band of the post-hardcore/alternative rock scene. Anthony Green, lead vocalist, possessed a unique and high-pitched tenor that sounded like silk run through a blender. I didn’t think he could pull it off live, but I was wrong—he totally blew me away while performing Juturna.

What was Jake’s favorite tour? “I’ve been lucky enough to be part of really special tours. Anytime I make new friends, that’s what’s most important to me,” Jake said. “I can’t pick a favorite. Polar Bear Club, Fireworks, Turnstile, Praise, Modern Baseball, Unified Right, Backtrack, Circa Survive are [just] a very small fraction of incredible people I’ve been able to get close with through music.”

In Lemoyne, a small venue called “The Champ” features alternative rock bands open for all ages. Bands such as Hawthorne Heights, Ice Nine Kills and Hotel Books have played there in the past. I asked Jake about the music scene in Bay City, Mich., his hometown. He explained bands would hit his general area every-so-often, and it was always a blast. “Places like the Magic Stick and Refuge Skate Shop have always been there for me.”

The five guys that comprise of Citizen are “straight edge,” which pertains to somebody who refrains from drinking, drugs and, in some cases, sexual encounters with more than partner, or even eating meat. Aside from Citizen, Jake plays in the straight edge hardcore band, “Freedom,” so I dug a bit deeper into his personal life and asked how this subculture has affected him.

“It means everything to me,” Jake said. “It’s been in my life for so long that I don’t really think of it as an outside influence, it’s just my life. A ‘counter-culture’ idea is what trains you to be comfortable with yourself.”

Did being in Citizen or Freedom personally change you as a person? “I’d like to think that anything I do influences me. You learn a lot doing something truly arcane as being in a touring band. Perhaps a bit corny. But it’s true,” Jake said.

It’d be hard to pick a favorite Citizen track, but I do lean towards “Stain,” “Cicuta,” “Drawn Out” and “Untitled.” When I asked Jake whether he has favorite tracks or any personal ties with his music, I received an interesting answer.

“My favorite tracks jump around depending on what mood I’m in,” Jake said. “More often than not, I find myself magnetized with the closing track of ‘Everybody Is Going To Heaven,’ ‘Ring Of Chain.’ Creating ‘Everybody Is Going To Heaven’ was a liberating and creative experience. I have personal ties with all of them.” He didn’t enjoy Citizen’s older material. According to him, they were 15 when they wrote it, and, much like themselves, it lacked any real identity. His favorite tracks from their first, full-length record, “Youth,” were “Speaking With A Ghost” and “Figure You Out.”

There hasn’t been a single night within the past year I haven’t fallen asleep listening to the thrilling and beautiful sounds that create the album “Youth.” I thought about a proper question to conclude my interview with Jake, so I asked: What’s the best part about playing in Citizen and Freedom?

“The people. That’s why I do it,” Jake said. “You are defined by who you surround yourself with and I couldn’t be more proud of that.”

Patrick Schmitt is a freshman at Capital Area School for the Arts Charter School (CASA).

Student Scribes: “Raven’s Stand”

July 29, 2016 | by Tierra Woodford

Sharp breaths scorched her lungs. She could barely hold herself up, but she refused to stop. The brown of the dirt on her clothes contrasted the brown of her skin. With a wobbly stance she knew she was weak on all sides, her balance compromised, but she widened her legs, stood tall and brought her sword up beside her face with both hands.

“Raven, give it up for today. You can try to get your mark tomorrow,” her husband, Eric, called out to her. The worry in his voice sickened her. She’s stronger than this.

“Mom, don’t push yourself too much,” her adopted daughter, Jade, yelled. Not her daughter, too.

She sprinted forward again, eyes locked on her target. The pressure behind them told her they were changing to a glowing blue-orange. As the first born of the original mutated human race that is the Meta breed, the glowing eye color warns other second-generation Metas who lack her power. No one matched her speed or strength, until today. Lilith, Raven’s mentor, vanished before her eyes, her speed too much for even her.

Lilith’s knee crashed into Raven’s stomach like a steel hammer. She gasped, blood flowing from her mouth onto the dirt. Lilith’s fists clamped together, slamming into her back, throwing her to the ground, an inhuman groan escaping from her being knocked from her lungs. Before she could even twitch, Lilith stabbed her, pinning her to the ground until the hilt was against Raven’s back. Scarlet droplets stained the brown earth with tainted descent.

Raven coughed up the blood that had pooled into her lungs, splattering more of its disgrace across the ground. This happens to her kind all the time, history repeats more than she wishes it would. Her mentor sneered at her, arms crossed over her old chest. Lilith’s own dimly illuminated, blue-orange eyes bore down into Raven’s glazed orbs. Raven tried to rise, pushing up on her elbows, away from the pool of her own precious fluid. If mom could see me now she’d probably give me the same look. Her thoughts hurt her more than the sword in her torso—robbed of this chance to be what she always dreamed of… She can’t fail now by being beaten so easily.

“Raven!”

“Stay back!” Her voice grew weak; she was surprised she could still draw any breath at all.

“Look at yourself. Useless.”

Raven looked up, her breathing slowed, mouth agape while she struggled to move. She saw herself in the sword, her right eye was bleeding, dirt all over her face, bruises purple and pink all along her cheeks. She could see the sword piercing her body. Still, she’d been through worse, so had her ancestors. She snared at her mentor, blue-orange orbs glowing brighter than any Meta in all the land.

“Rebellious eyes. If only they’d help you now,” Lilith said as she pulled up her own uniform sleeves. A marking on Lilith’s wrist flashed across Raven’s vision.

A black-inked heart with wings in chains. Her own heart tightened in her chest, heat ran through her veins as the blood flowed from her wounds. She bared her teeth at Lilith’s back. She pushed herself up from the ruby ground. Her limbs wouldn’t stop shaking but she couldn’t stop just yet. What example would she be setting for her daughter if she did?

“Don’t look down on me, old woman.”

“Come on then.” Lilith granted.

“Raven, please stop!” Eric pleaded. Still, she stood her ground.

“This is it, Raven. If you can’t beat me, I’ll have you dropped from the military.” Lilith spoke again, Raven’s eyes widened. “You’ll become what you were before, a blood cow for the cure to the Meta disease.”

Please, not again! The pain that she felt while being used like that was worse than this pain 10 times over.

She knew she could never really be free, never, because the way she and her kind were born or even made. She will be able to live among the humans, but still be hated for who she is, who she never chose to be. This is her chance for it to get better, at least a little. In the land where humans are free, the ones who fight against their own kind are still imprisoned by their own broken mental states and that of the ones they serve. They protect. She won’t fail. She’ll make everyone see that Meta are as good if not better than the humans.

Raven calmed her breathing, stilled her body. She reminded herself what her mother always told her. Focus, breath, feel the blood flow control it. Her eyes scanned her mentor, looking over every aspect of the old woman, all her weaknesses, physical and mental. She’d been fighting like a human who has to learn to fight like an animal, when she was born a fierce animal. Her daughter’s scared voice rose above her thoughts, “Mom!” She finally let her natural instincts take over.

Raven ran forward with her full Meta speed, eyes lit to full power, her wounds burned as they healed, hands clamped around her own sword’s hilt. She jabbed at her mentor’s head, Lilith easily dodging it, bored. She shoved her hand into Raven’s chest, knocking all the air from her. Raven took the pain, smirking. Lilith was just about to knock her silly again, when Raven let loose.

With speed that matched her teacher’s, that served her well in other battles, she dodged Lilith’s fist, grabbed her hand and shoved the sword into the ground. Hands tight on Lilith’s own, Raven used both hands for leverage as she threw herself into the air, kicking Lilith in the chest. Lilith stumbled back, Raven gritting her teeth, ready to end this. She catapulted and landed onto Lilith’s chest. Without a moment’s hesitation, she stomped down, cracking bones, a wheeze escaping her mentor. Raven’s own chest heaved up and down with exhaustion, she threw her sword to the side. She stepped down from the chest of her mentor, still alive judging by the way her body shook. With a smile to her family, Raven let out a quick laugh. They whistled at her, excitement evident on their faces.

Before she could even scream, she was hurled into a tree, her back crashed into the tree first, her open wounds stung with the burn of a thousand volcanoes. All she could register before she passed out was a pathetic sound that escaped her and someone else’s voice: “Not bad, Raven.”

***

A cool hand wiped sweat from her brow. Raven felt she was wrapped up in bandages, everything so sore the slightest movements caused her agony.

“Raven.” She knew that voice—Eric. “You awake?” She forced her eyes open to find her daughter and husband watching her closely, neither looking too happy with her at the moment.

“You must have a death wish or something,” Eric said.

“Mom! You can’t keep doing that,” Jade interjected her adorable face, scrunched up in anger.

“Do you even know how worried we were?” Raven smiled gently at the two and raised a hand to the child, ruffling her hair affectionately.

“Sorry.” She was sorry for many different things now: making them worry, sending herself back into the infirmary, and for failing to get her marking.

It would have meant she was finally a respected member of the military at last; now she was back to being used for experiments and having blood taken. Tears pricked her eyes at the reality of her failure and the next stages of hell she’ll have to endure until she can try again. Footsteps came towards her bedside. The old woman must have come back to gloat. She stood in front of her, hands holding both swords.

“Raven. Look at your left wrist.” Raven tilted her head before peeling away the bandages on her wrist. Black ink graced her skin, contrasting with the brown coloring in a subtle yet distinct way a heart with chains circling it and wings on its back. Like the bird for which she was named.

“But… I didn’t beat you.”

“You’ve earned it.”

At that, her heart swelled, filling with a combination of relief, joy and contentment. Her eyes overflowed with the salty tears that she held back for years. She let out a calmed breath, anxieties melting away. Raven silently thanked her, Lilith inclined her head respectfully and headed for the door. Lilith left her sword by the bedside.

“Welcome kid. It only gets worse from here.”

Raven smirked at her mentor’s back. “We’ll see, old woman.”

Tierra Woodford is a sophomore at Capital Area School for the Arts Charter School (CASA).

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