Student Scribes: The Not-So-Invincible Father

February 29, 2016 | by Galena Conrad

Quarter to 8 the morning of March 3, 2013, while I sleep soundly in the next room, my father complained of a headache. He held his head in his hands for a split second, groaning and complaining of pain before his body would deny him self-control, before constants would become variables. At 8 a.m. on that Sunday morning before church and family brunch, my father suffered a hemorrhage stroke. He was 51 years of age.

There are three different kinds of stroke: hemorrhage, transient ischemic and ischemic. A hemorrhage stroke happens when a blood vessel bursts and bleeds, causing tissue damage. A transient ischemic, or “mini stroke,” occurs from a temporary blockage in the brain. An ischemic stroke occurs when a blood vessel that takes blood to the brain becomes blocked, most commonly a blood clot. According to cdc.gov/stroke.htm, stroke is the third leading cause of death in the United States. It claims more than 140,000 people die each year from stroke. Forty percent of those deaths occur in males, and 60 percent occur in females.

My mother rushed into my room, her cell phone crunched against her ear, fear in her eyes. Still in her pajamas, she pulled me from my bed, tore my blankets away from me and, in a professional, secretary-like tone, she instructed me to flag down the ambulance. “It’s okay, I’m sorry. Just go. Daddy is very sick,” she said. She then spoke loudly into the phone as she left me. My hands began to shake as my mind drifted away. I tripped down the stairs, my head so full that my thoughts ceased to exist. As I stood on the frost-covered grass of the barn hill, I ground my teeth until my temples pulsed. The sheep bleated at me as I stared down the road, my feet carrying me to my mailbox. The ambulance promptly pulled in, breaking branches as they drove under the trees covering the driveway. After throwing our belongings away from the front door and showing the EMTs the way upstairs, I stood in the kitchen, listening to the clamor in my parent’s room. Soon, they came tromping down the stairs: my father looking like a lamb for slaughter, his eyes that of a stranger, my scared mother and the cluster of EMTs.

Anyone who knows my father would agree he was always a hard worker. My family would describe him as a workaholic. For as long as I can remember, my father has worked on average eight- to 15-hour days. He owns a repair shop, towing business and car lot, which, until his stroke, he managed on his own, along with a boarding house and the farm where we live. He managed all of this while still caring for his five children, wife and an array of lost souls who seem to gravitate toward his commanding personality. Growing up, working in a feed mill, he learned the value of endless hours of backbreaking work. His garage has always been his escape, full of raggedy friends and broken cars. His hands have been stained with grease since seventh grade. Arguably, from either working around motors or late nights with loud amps around him and chewed up drumsticks in his hands playing in a garage band, his hearing had been damaged. Still, stroke came like a thief in the night.

According to MDStrokeassociation.org, every year approximately 795,000 people suffer a stroke, 600,000 for the first time, 185,000 recurrent attacks. Atrial fibrillation, blood disorders such as sickle cell disease and anemia, diabetes, atherosclerosis and heart disease increase the risk of stroke. The most common risk factors for stroke are high blood pressure, high cholesterol and obesity. Blood pressure of 140/90 or higher is the leading risk factor for stroke. When blood pushes too forcefully against the walls of the arteries, it can damage or weaken them.

Just two weeks before the stroke, my father began taking high blood pressure medication. He was nearly crushed under a car that slipped off the jack, creating muscle strain. He began to display irrational anger, and his temper became unpredictable. He had been complaining for some time of blurred vision and frequent headaches. At the time, we did not recognize these as stroke warnings. Many people are unaware of the warning signs of a stroke. A popular phrase in the stroke awareness realm is BE FAST: balance, eyes, face, arms, speech, time—relating to an individual’s physical appearance when having a stroke. “Balance” is an individual’s ability to equally distribute body weight. A stroke victim loses this ability. “Eyes” refers to a person’s vision, which may become shaky or blurry. “Face” refers to the person’s appearance, which may include drooping of the skin due to the lack of muscle control. This can make the individual appear to be melting. “Arms” refers to the control or lack of in an individual’s arms. “Time” plays a critical role for a stroke victim. If you suspect an individual is having a stroke, seek medical help as soon as possible.

After living in the ICU for 40 days, my father transitioned to rehab, where he remained for another two weeks. On April 20, he returned home, but he would be bed-ridden for two more months. He maintained a physical therapy regimen for the next year. On March 19, 2014, a little more than a year from the stroke, he was released from rehab.

Each year since his stroke, he is required to have a CAT or MRI scan performed to ensure his good health. He will remain on Losartan Potassium, Citalopram, Metoprolol, and levetracctam for the rest of his life. Many of my father’s nurses, doctors and friends refer to him as a “walking miracle.” Those who survive strokes often suffer emotionally and physically crippling disabilities. As my father’s rehabilitation nurse said, “He is a lucky, stubborn man.”

My father now works eight to 12 hours rather than eight to 15. He and my mother run the repair shop, towing business and car lot together. They still own a boarding house and run the 34-acre farm we live on. We live with the threat of a seizure hanging over our heads. My father suffers from vitamin deficiencies resulting in a dependence on electrolyte beverages and snacks high in potassium, as well as anxiety, resulting in the permanent use of medication to manage these deficiencies. He approaches life with a more urgent manner. He suffers from short-term memory loss but his long-term memory became amplified.

“Taking medicine doesn’t really bother me. It makes me slow down, time normal.” he said.

Without the medication, he claims to “move too fast,” feeling as though his brain will “short circuit.” My father has little to no recollection of his stroke, even the time he spent conscious in the hospital is foggy to him. Since his stroke, he has learned the value of a good night’s rest. His sleep is “solid. Fine.” He rarely experiences dreams and when he does, he has no memory of them. He no longer snores. When he over-exerts, he becomes tired, his motor skills slow and his speech slurs. He continues to recover. Although released as “healed” nearly three years ago, he will never be completely healed and that is OK. My family now realizes that every day we have together is precious, frustrating but precious. As my father said, “Stroke or no stroke, use whatever time you have left wisely.”

Galena Conrad is a junior at CASA.

Get Your Rear in Gear: Don’t shy away from ensuring a healthy colon.

February 29, 2016 | by Christina Persson

The human digestive tract plays a vital role in our lives and well-being, but we often have an uncomfortable reaction when it comes to discussing it.

Doctors, cancer organizations and others are working to break down barriers such as embarrassment and the “ick factor” to encourage open communication about the colon and rectum, the cancers that can affect them, and important screening tools like colonoscopy.

“Be proud and confident in knowing what’s normal for your body, checking your stool for signs of cancer and getting the appropriate screenings,” said Robert Carman Jr., doctor of osteopathic at Central Pennsylvania Surgical Associates. “I guarantee your doctor has seen and heard it all, so be honest if you have concerns. There’s no place for embarrassment when it comes to saving your life.”

According to the American Cancer Society, early detection and treatment does save lives. When caught early, colon cancer has a 90 percent cure rate, but the right screenings can actually prevent cancer from occurring.

“Colorectal cancer usually develops from pre-cancerous polyps called adenomatous polyps or serrated polyps,” said Carman. “So, in order to reduce the likelihood of colorectal cancer, it is important to have regular checkups and screening to find out if you have polyps and to have them removed if you do.”

The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force recommends screening for colorectal cancer using high-sensitivity fecal occult blood testing, sigmoidoscopy or colonoscopy beginning at age 50 and continuing until age 75. People at higher risk of developing colorectal cancer should begin screening at a younger age and may need to be tested more frequently.

“It is very important to understand that younger people can get colon cancer,” said Carman. “You should be screened before age 50 if you have symptoms such as abdominal or rectal pain, bleeding, change in bowel habits, or a family history of colon or rectal cancer or polyps. If you have a family history of colon cancer, you should be screened 10 years earlier than the age of the family member when he or she was diagnosed, or at age 40—whichever is younger.”

Most people have heard of colonoscopy, a procedure that examines the colon by use of a long, flexible, lighted tube called the colonoscope. Through it, the doctor can view the entire colon and rectum for polyps or cancer. During this same exam, the doctor also can remove pre-cancerous polyps. Because it is the only method that combines both screening and prevention (by removal of pre-cancerous polyps), most gastroenterologists and surgeons recommend colonoscopy as the single best screening exam for colorectal cancer.

“The procedure itself takes about 45 minutes and usually involves sedation, so it’s rarely uncomfortable,” said Carman. “Patients are asked to switch to a clear-liquid diet the day before and use laxatives or a cleansing preparation. The colon must be completely clean for the procedure to be accurate and comprehensive.”

While the cleansing process isn’t pleasant, most gastroenterologists agree that it’s well worth any temporary discomfort to protect your health and your life. When your doctor recommends your cleansing procedure, he or she will account for any medications you take and any health problems you have.

“Right now, only about 60 percent of people who should be screened are getting screened,” said Carman. “Colorectal cancer is the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths for both sexes combined. With the appropriate screening tests, we can significantly reduce that number, detect their cancer earlier and decrease the number of colorectal cancer deaths.”

Lifestyle changes also can reduce the risk of colon cancer. Carman recommends eating more foods that are high in fiber, including whole grains, fruits, vegetables and more cruciferous vegetables, such as cabbage, broccoli, cauliflower and Brussels sprouts.

Increasing calcium intake with low-fat milk, shellfish, salmon and calcium supplements with vitamin D—and decreasing consumption of fats, oils, butter and red meats—are other recommended dietary changes. And, as with all cancers, regular exercise, not smoking and maintaining a normal weight may also reduce your risk.

Patients can also play an active role in their health by choosing the right physician for the colonoscopy procedure.

“I recommend a physician who is board-certified and performs the procedure in a licensed, accredited facility with the appropriate preparation, sedation and monitoring,” said Dr. Carman. “If you’re unsure, ask your primary care doctor for a recommendation, but do your research about experience and credentials.”

Properly administered, colorectal cancer screening is safe and effective, Carman said.

“More than one-third of colorectal cancer deaths could be avoided if all eligible individuals participated in regular screening,” he said. “Take charge of your health and don’t let fear hold you back from getting screened.”

Freshman Under Fire: Sen. Rob Teplitz, a “huge target” on his back, enters a tough re-election fight.

February 29, 2016 | by Mary Wilson

The way Rob Teplitz saw it, he had been very patient by the time he finally rose to his feet one spring afternoon in 2014 to air a grievance on the floor of the Pennsylvania state Senate.

Teplitz, a career lawyer, was one of the chamber’s newest members—and intent on showing that he would not be a meek member of the Democratic minority. He is used to asserting himself. The cherubic-faced freshman legislator hears frequently that he looks young for his 45 years. His typical response: “You should’ve seen me before I entered politics.”

“I have to constantly assure people that I am old enough to drive and to serve in office,” said Teplitz recently, half-closing his eyes in exasperation. “It’s something that has actually irritated me my entire life. I’m thrilled that I am finally getting gray hair.”

Teplitz was in the Senate GOP’s crosshairs even before he was sworn into office. His election in 2012 made him the first Democrat to win the 15th Senate district since 1936, according to state records.

“The Republicans held this seat for almost 100 years straight,” said Teplitz. “They want it back.”

Now, Harrisburg’s state senator is headed into a reelection campaign as he comes to the end of his first four-year term. How is he doing?

His colleagues confirm that the Republican majority goes out of its way to prevent him from passing legislation of his own—even the minor, provincial bills that assign names to roads and bridges. Political expediency is not the only explanation for this.

“There’s a huge target on my back,” said Teplitz, “and the reason for that is because I haven’t played this game where the safest thing for a minority freshman to do… would be to just keep your mouth shut and not do anything controversial.”

Back in May of 2014, Teplitz stood before his Senate colleagues to lodge a complaint. The highly structured rules of a Senate session relax once the day’s voting is done, and members can speak in protest or otherwise go off-topic on the public record.

Teplitz had been promised the legislature would move one of his proposals. But now it was stuck in committee, and he couldn’t get it out. Specifically, Teplitz felt betrayed by Pat Vance, a veteran Republican senator who had the power to advance the measure. (The Senate Democratic minority leader, who witnessed the two lawmakers strike their compromise, recently told me, hesitantly, that Teplitz was indeed being shafted.)

“This place cannot function if people do not keep their agreements,” Teplitz said. “I do not know if it makes it more or less likely for me to succeed on this resolution, perhaps less likely.”

Perhaps. State legislators, especially in the traditionally decorous Senate, speak in code on the chamber floor. Comments that are necessarily elliptical under the Senate’s rules of debate are parsed according to political context and interpersonal squabbles. Teplitz’s comments were perceived as a character assassination of Vance, the committee chair who he felt had wronged him.

“Oh, it was combative,” said Vance, whose Cumberland County district sits just across the river from Teplitz’s turf. “I have lots of faults, but I don’t lie and I think most people know I’m pretty straight… it was like he was attacking me because I wouldn’t agree with him. And I thought that was very foolish.”

Nearly two years after his cri de coeur, Teplitz has no regrets.

“I reject the notion that I did anything inappropriate,” he said. “We had a professional disagreement, and I’m comfortable that I handled it professionally.” But publicly questioning the integrity of a longtime Republican senator won him no friends on the other side of the aisle.

Despite Teplitz’s unofficial status on the Republican blacklist, the Harrisburg mayor considers him to be an effective advocate for the city. Teplitz pushed for Harrisburg to receive $5 million from the state, ostensibly for fire protection services (the money also helps the city balance its budget, and there is talk of increasing the aid to plug Harrisburg’s spending shortfall). The sum, however, is contained in the state budget bill, and Teplitz, who took office during the austere years of the Corbett administration, has never voted for a budget.

Can you take credit for a line item in a spending plan you voted against? Teplitz says you can. A budget that underfunds education, as he believes the past several state budgets did, is not going to win his vote just because it includes a hard-won appropriation for Harrisburg.

“I never misled anyone or gave anyone the expectation that I would vote for it,” he said.

Teplitz’s particular district poses yet another challenge to his reelection.

During his 2012 campaign, the 15th Senate district covered most of southern Dauphin County (excluding much of the northern part of the county), encompassed Harrisburg and Hershey, and curled into York County. That was before the state’s latest redistricting plans took effect.

The redrawn district looks like a handgun pointing down and to the left. The trigger is the city of Harrisburg, the grip reaches east of Hershey, the rear sight covers northern Dauphin County, and the barrel extends into all of rural Perry County—“very Republican” territory, according to a former Senate aide, and “much tougher” to win for a Democrat. Despite that, Teplitz faces a familiar primary opponent, Alvin Taylor, who was on the Democratic ticket in 2012. Two Republicans, Andrew Lewis and John DiSanto, are running for Teplitz’s seat.

“I think he will come out victorious, but black and blue,” said Patty Kim, a House Democrat elected the same year as Teplitz. “Perry County and the city of Harrisburg don’t have a lot in common.”

Teplitz gravitates to issues the two regions may have in common. Some of his nearest and dearest policy concerns (municipal finance, government reform) are decidedly non-partisan in nature and reflect his years of experience as a top lawyer for the state auditor general’s office, a government watchdog agency.

On issues that tend to sort lawmakers into neat camps (Republican/Democrat, rural/urban), he falls into the urban Democrat model: he supports greater funding for education; he has voted against the most recent state pension overhaul. But his district is not a slam-dunk for an urban Democrat, and so he has to be careful. On the subject of tax increases (which could help fund schools and overdue pension costs) proposed by the Democratic governor, Teplitz says only that he’s “open-minded.”

Teplitz’s new district is not a classic gerrymandered monstrosity that jilts a minority-party lawmaker. The new lines satisfy the most basic requirement that the district be compact and contiguous. It’s also not nuts to think people living in Perry County and much of Dauphin County have common interests. What the district seems to require in a successful senator is political moderation. What this looks like up close might be better described as political omnivorism—taking a little bit from different parts of the menu. For Harrisburg Mayor Eric Papenfuse, this was on display at the most recent Pennsylvania Farm Show. Teplitz was there almost every day, and his staff was on hand to give out legislative information and other swag—Pennsylvania trivia and recipe books, but also gun logs and shooting targets. The materials were selected, Teplitz said, based on the Farm Show’s audience, which includes sportsmen.

This was of note to Papenfuse who, like Teplitz, is a staunch Democrat but who, unlike Teplitz, has harsh words for the National Rifle Association these days.

“I’m saying this was sort of clever,” said Papenfuse. “I think that people were coming up to him at the Farm Show and saying, ‘Those Democrats, they are just awful, right?’ And he’d smile.”

Mary Wilson is WITF’s state Capitol Bureau chief. Her reports are heard on public radio stations throughout Pennsylvania.

February News Digest

February 29, 2016 | by Lawrance Binda

Budget Passed Again

For a second time, Harrisburg has passed a 2016 budget, which was largely unchanged from the version approved last year.

By a 6-1 vote, City Council last month OK’d a $60.4 million spending plan that adds 36 new positions, most in a newly created Neighborhood Services division. Councilwoman Shamaine Daniels was the sole member to vote no, stating that she believed the budget total was too high.

Council passed a budget in December, but reopened it a month later after three new council members took their seats. The new version is almost identical to the original, but it does give raises to a handful of city workers pending a study of pay equity in city hall.

The budget factors in about $3 million from a planned tripling of the local services tax (LST) to $156 per year for each person who works in Harrisburg and earns more than $24,418 annually. At press time, council still needed to approve the LST increase.

Commonwealth Court Judge Bonnie Leadbetter, who must approve changes to the city’s financial recovery plan, already has signed off on the tax hike.

Harrisburg Mayor Eric Papenfuse regards the LST increase as a way for commuters to contribute more to the city’s financial stability and to fund improved services, particularly for sanitation and road maintenance.

Stolen Firearms

Three antique guns were stolen from the National Civil War Museum in Reservoir Park last month, taken from an NRA-sponsored exhibit there.

A pair of Colt revolvers, dating to 1860 and 1861, was owned by the city, while an engraved Henry rifle from 1861 was on loan from a private donor, according to museum CEO Wayne Motts.

All three firearms were claimed to have once belonged to Simon Cameron, a Harrisburg native who served as President Abraham Lincoln’s secretary of war at the beginning of the Civil War. They were on display together as part of a “Guns & Lace” exhibit that was sponsored by a $25,000 grant from the National Rifle Association.

Police Capt. Gabriel Olivera confirmed that the thief made entry by breaking through a window and then breaking into the display case to remove the guns. The theft was not detected until hours later due to an apparent failure in the museum’s alarm system. Olivera added that the precise nature of the security lapse was not yet clear.

Olivera said surveillance footage captured images of a male thief, but that the images are not clear and that police are not yet releasing them because they “would not be of any use.” Police have not ruled out the possibility of an inside job, Olivera said.

The city released the following information identifying the weapons:

A .44 caliber M1860 Colt Army Revolver with serial number 11708.
A .36 caliber Colt M1861 Navy Revolver with serial number 1825.
An M1860 Henry Repeating Rifle with serial number 115, manufactured by the New Haven Arms Company and engraved with the word “Cameron” on the receiver.

Council Rethinks Pot Penalties

Harrisburg’s marijuana laws may soon change as City Council last month introduced a bill to reduce penalties for possession of the drug.

The city administration’s proposal would change possession from a misdemeanor to a less-serious summary offense and ease penalties to $100 for a first conviction and $200 for a second. After a third offense, possession again would be considered a misdemeanor crime.

Mayor Eric Papenfuse supports the change, saying too much city police time is occupied by low-level drug cases. He said he also doesn’t believe the change would encourage drug use, a charge leveled by some opponents.

At press time, a council committee was slated to consider the issue for further action.

Serious Crime Declines

The rate of serious crime in Harrisburg fell significantly last year, the Police Bureau said last month.

“Part 1” crimes declined by 17 percent in 2015 compared to 2014, the police said. These crimes include murder, rape, assault, burglary, theft and arson.

Of these, robbery fell from 283 to 228 reported incidents; assault decreased from 1,328 to 1,233 reported incidents; and theft dropped from 1,235 to 875 incidents.

Harrisburg tallied 19 homicides in 2015, the same as in 2014. However, three of those murders were categorized as self-defense, meaning that criminal homicides actually went down.

New Home for City Islanders

The Harrisburg City Islanders will make FNB Field (formerly Metro Bank Park) their home stadium for the 2016 season.

The city-based soccer team will play 10 home matches at the City Island ballpark, which also is the home stadium for the Harrisburg Senators. Another five home matches will be played at Clipper Magazine Stadium in Lancaster.

For the past two years, the Islanders have been looking to move out of the Skyline Sports complex, also on City Island, because the team considered it too small and lacking in basic amenities, such as bathrooms.

Mayor Eric Papenfuse said that the city, which owns the stadium, may benefit financially through increased ticket, sales and parking fees, especially if the move leads to greater attendance at Islanders’ matches.

Separately, First National Bank last month announced the stadium would be renamed FNB Field, as F.N.B. Corp. recently merged with Metro Bank’s parent company, Metro Bancorp.

Housing Sales Improve

The Harrisburg area continued to see improvements in housing sales, the Greater Harrisburg Association of Realtors (GHAR) reported last month.

Region-wide, sales totaled 557 units in January, compared to 501 in January 2015 and 448 in January 2014. The median price increased to $152,000, $4,000 more than in the year-ago period.

In January, Dauphin County tallied 185 sales at a median price of $134,000, compared to 177 units and a $132,000 median price in January 2015.

In Cumberland County, 201 units sold for a median price of $174,000 against 179 units at a price of $160,800 in January 2015, GHAR said. Perry County sales were also up, totaling 27 units for a median price of $147,000 versus 18 units at a price of $144,950 for the year-ago period, according to GHAR.

So Noted

Bricco, a downtown Harrisburg restaurant, plans a series of events and specials to celebrate its 10-year anniversary. These include special pricing, dining events and a new menu. For all the details, visit www.briccopa.com.

Changing Hands

Berryhill St., 1249: R. Eisner et al to E. Graves, $37,000

Berryhill St., 2116: Secretary of Housing & Urban Development to M. Wijaya, $31,000

Cumberland St., 1322: E. Brinkman to D. Brotz, $114,900

Derry St., 2416: S. Moose to I. Class & Y. Aguayo, $45,000

Derry St., 2513: L. Parker to R. Tortorelli, $59,900

Edgewood Rd., 2300: B. & C. Mark to T. Paradise, $195,000

Green St., 1425: M. Araujo to J. Miller, $95,000

Green St., 1701A: R. Myers to J. & V. Wills, $180,000

Green St., 2959: D. Jamieson to D. & V. Moore, $202,900

Hoffman St., 3214: M. Angelo to J. Gantt & H. Mahmood, $109,900

Hunter St., 1609: T. Vo to D. Vo, $160,000

Kelker St., 422 & 434, 1821 Fulton St. and 1820 N. 5^th St.: Hamilton Health Center to Christian Recovery Aftercare Ministry, $250,000

N. 2^nd St., 321 & 209 South St.: B. Hattingh to VMV Smart Solutions LLC, $425,000

N. 2^nd St., 1509: J. Tang to Vortex Properties, $105,000

N. 3^rd St., 3205: Secretary of Veterans Affairs to H. Pontius, $42,000

N. 4^th St., 3211: J. Kardisco to D. Cameron, $89,000

N. 17^th St., 1001: Miracle Group Inc. to E. Price, $80,000

Parkside Lane, 2906: R. & V. Eaton to R. & K. Riley, $210,000

Penn St., 1522: S. Faridi to M. Lindsay, $133,000

Regina St., 1414 & 2139 N. 4^th St.: SNL Realty Holdings & Touch of Color to NJR Group LLC, $71,500

Rudy Rd., 1916: R. Wagner to J. Burno, $53,000

Rudy Rd., 2413: J. Boutselis to PA Deals LLC, $55,000

Rumson Dr., 2586: PA Deals LLC to J. Tucker, $80,000

S. 19^th St., 14: C. Butler to M. Martinez, $45,000

S. 25^th St., 729: R. Wylie Jr. to 729 25^th Street LLC, $170,000

S. 26^th St., 733: T. Navas to E. Lowe & S. Fuentes, $72,000

State St., 213: Douglas, Hassler & McKillop to Legion Premier Properties LLC, $247,000

Susquehanna St., 1725: M. Gojmerac & C. Roma to B. & K. Martin, $94,000

Verbeke St., 309: S. Rosso to R. Green & D. Govender, $113,000

Wyeth St., 1406: A. Van Dyke to PA Deals LLC, $82,000

Harrisburg property sales for January 2016, greater than $30,000. Source: Dauphin County. Data is assumed to be accurate.

Art of the Egg: Cafe Uovo celebrates the arts with creative cuisine.

February 29, 2016 | by Stephanie Kalina-Metzger

Photo by Waxman Photography.

Near the Olde Camp Hill borough hall, both an American flag and an “OPEN” flag wave in the wind out front, commanding commuters’ attention as they drive past the pale blue corner building.

Until recently, an air of mystery surrounded the prominent location on Market Street, as neighbors discussed what type of business might be taking over the former “Help U Sell” building.

Then, in early January, John and Cheryl Bisel ended the speculation. They unveiled their personal masterpiece deemed Café Uovo, with dishes named for artists and composers and John’s artwork featured on the walls. News of the snug eatery has since spread through word of mouth, and the only mystery that remains (for newbies at least) is how to pronounce the name.

Soft-spoken and pleasant, John is happy to oblige, although he’s probably answered the “Uovo” question at least 100 times already. “Uovo,” he says, “means ‘egg’ in Italian.” Pronounced “wah-vo,” the name sparks conversation. “Every person who walks in here wants to know how to pronounce it,” he said.

As for the choice of an Italian word, John explains that his wife’s family is Italian. “Me? I’m a ‘Heinz 57’—a little of everything,” he says with a chuckle.

For Cheryl, opening the business has allowed her to return to her roots. She grew up in the Mechanicsburg area and moved to Arizona, where she met John, who owned Grand Canyon Laser.

“She wanted to return to a place with ‘real trees,’” explains John with a smile.

The couple now embraces their role as part of the community, living on site and enlisting the family to help run the business. Daughter Jessica Wellington and husband Sam work each day to help with the new venture. Sam, who previously worked at the Sheraton Wild Horse Pass in Arizona, offers his cooking talents, learned working in the hospitality industry, and Jessica brings her social media skills to the table, literally (you can sometimes spot her posting from her perch at the front counter).

Uovo offers light, healthy fare in a contemporary setting. Brown and beige hues dominate the color scheme, from the dark wooden floor to the tables and front counter. Chalkboards hang from ceilings and festoon walls listing menu items, while attractive chandeliers provide subtle illumination.

It was important to the Bisels to offer the community a little something different.

“We consider ourselves ‘foodies’ and wanted to bring in some of the flavors we experienced in other places—some of the lighter fare,” said John, who consulted with his family to create the small, manageable menu comprised of breakfast and lunch dishes. “I borrowed things that worked well in Arizona and sat down with Sam, and he brought in some of the things he learned in the Southwest.”

Among the selections are “bowls,” like the colorful “Rembrandt,” which includes a mixture of yellow squash, zucchini, spinach and roasted peppers; the palate-pleasing “Cezanne,” which combines avocado, tomatoes, corn, black beans, green onion, cilantro and lime; and the “Mozart,” a composition of asparagus, Brussels sprouts, yellow squash, onion, mushroom and honey chipotle sauce. All bowls are served over the diner’s choice of quinoa or rosemary potatoes with optional chicken or eggs cooked to order.

Brustini, a Café Uovo creation, marries bruschetta and crostini and is popular for breakfast and lunch, said John. Among the half-dozen or so creations served on toasted ciabatta are the “Pollock,” an artful combination of blueberries, brie and pistachio and the more substantial “Dali,” which is comprised of prosciutto, Spanish chorizo and Manchego, a Spanish cheese. These flavors pop with the surprise component of pineapple jam. The complex “Rothko” includes roast beef, ham, olive tapenade, Swiss cheese, pickle and mustard, and the slightly sweet “Van Gogh” features slices of pair, dried cranberries, bleu cheese, raspberry puree and a chiffonade of spinach.

Seasonal salad choices include the “Dante,” comprised of sautéed Brussels sprouts, dried cranberries, bacon, Manchego, almonds and mustard vinaigrette served over chopped green cabbage and the veggie-laden “Titian,” with fresh, sautéed asparagus, red peppers, mushrooms, zucchini, onion and garlic served over red leaf lettuce.

Fans of eggs Benedict will love “The Uovo,” two poached eggs served with Canadian bacon and hollandaise sauce on toasted ciabatta.

“We had a couple who came in and ordered it and said it was the best they ever had,” said John.

Other breakfast selections include omelets with ingredients running the gamut from Italian sausage to kale, pork chili verde and a variety of cheeses and vegetables.

“We encourage customers to feel free to customize,” said John. “If we have the ingredients on hand, we’ll make it.”

Special teas, coffee, hot chocolate and hot ciders are popular this time of year, as are Café Uovo’s creative “mocktails” with names like “Pink Fusion”—a refreshing combination of ginger beer, San Pellegrino, pomegranate and orange. During the spring and summer, mock mojitos and sangria sans alcohol will be available for customers to enjoy as is or with their favorite BYO libation.

Adam Powars and his wife Angela live nearby and have welcomed Café Uovo to the neighborhood.

“The food is very good, and, when I ordered an omelet, the ingredients were all fresh, and it was cooked perfectly,” Powars said. “My wife and son each ordered a breakfast sandwich, and they loved them.”

Jennedy Johnson also takes her family there.

“My daughter enjoys the café’s spin on a PB&J, which is served with an amazing blueberry compote,” she said. “She also loves the hot apple cider drink.”

The Mechanicsburg resident said she enjoys the brustini and the bowls. “The staff is very nice and is also willing to work with those with allergies (or picky children),” she added.

John and his family said they appreciate the support of the local residents and their welcoming embrace. Based on community feedback, the feeling is mutual.

Café Uovo is located at 2163 Market St., Camp Hill. For more information, call 717-761-6856 or visit www.cafeuovo.com.

Musical Awakening: These bands will stir you from winter’s slumber.

February 29, 2016 | by Andrew Dyrli Hermeling

The Receiver. Photo courtesy of The Receiver.

March is a time of rebirth, a time when the midstate emerges from the cold of winter.

Like a bear awakening from hibernation, the city blinks and readjusts to the sun. I like to think that the musical selections for this month reflect this phenomenon. They are dreamy and convey a deep sense of yearning. But they are also diverse, ranging from songwriting deeply rooted in America’s folk tradition to ethereal electronic soundscapes. So, whatever your tastes, make sure to head over to one of these venues as you venture out from your winter’s quarters.

THE RECEIVER, 3/8, 8PM, THE MAKESPACE, $5 SUGGESTED DONATION:
Poppy and synthy, the Receiver is a duo hailing from Columbus, Ohio. Clicky beats sustain sweeping synth pads and somber melodies, reminiscent of other emotionally rich synth groups, such as M83. They are touring in support of their recently released “All Burn,” which has caught the attention of Paste Magazine and NPR’s “All Songs Considered.” The Receiver is part of a recent trend in electronic music that forgoes the large party atmosphere, instead creating intimate live arrangements, making them a perfect fit for the comfort and accessibility of the MakeSpace.

LAZYEYES w/BEVERLY, 3/9, 9:30PM, THE MILLWORKS, $8, 21+:
Although shoegaze—a hazy, distorted and ethereal type of music—is often lumped into the larger alternative music scene of the early ‘90s, the style has continued to influence rock bands and is presently experiencing a bit of a resurgence. Closely related to both dreampop and chillwave, shoegaze’s analog fuzz has proven to be an effective antidote for this harsh and sterile digital age. Lazyeyes and Beverly (both of which hail from Brooklyn) are tapping into this welcome musical trend. Heavily distorted guitars swirl beneath sweet, simple, evocative melodies. Beverly’s lead singer, Frankie Rose, has made a name for herself, both with her solo work and as a member of Vivian Girls. So, if you find yourself tiring of the incessant thump of EDM, head over to the Millworks and catch this excellent display of analog haze.

MELANIE SAFKA w/EVA, 3/18, 8PM, STAGE ON HERR, $30:
As the story goes, Melanie Safka was a virtual unknown when she took the stage late one night in 1969. In the haze of the rain, the crowd lit candles to better see her performance, while those without candles flicked their lighters. But this wasn’t just some impromptu folk show. The crowd was 400,000 strong and the performance took place on a farm outside Woodstock, N.Y. So inspired by the scene, Safka penned “Lay Down (Candles in the Rain).” And, as Safka’s fame spread, so too did the tradition of raising lighters (and now cellphone screens) at concerts. Seeing such an important figure in American pop music history should be reason enough to attend this show at Stage on Herr. But her fame is deserved, as her sweet vibrato instantly conjures up a power and optimism that serves as a voice for the hippy generation.

Mentionables: Chris Purcell and the Sinners, 3/12, River City Blues Club; Scythian, 3/16, Abbey Bar; The Michelle Canning Band, 3/20, Stage on Herr; The Ann Wilson Thing, 3/23, Whitaker Center; Jimkata, 3/25, Abbey Bar

Happenings: Our March Calendar of Events

February 29, 2016 | by TheBurg Editor

Museum & Art Spaces

3rd Street Studio
1725 N. 3rd St., Harrisburg
Facebook: 3^rd Street Studio

“Creepy Crawlers,” featuring imaginative acrylic, ink and graphite works by Sean Arce, March 18-May 20; reception: March 18, 6-10 p.m.

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

“Pinstriping & Automotive Art” by HotRod Jen, March 11-May 31; special program with the artist: March 12, 2 p.m.

“Mods vs. Rockers,” motorcycles and scooters, March 19-Oct. 29.

“It’s a Small World: Micro & Mini Cars,” through April 22.

“Pioneers in African-American Auto History,” through April 30.

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

“5 Artist Invitational,” with Josephine Alexander, Matthew Bennett, Karen Commings, Francesca Pizzurro and Deborah Williams, through March 31.

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

“Catch and Release: Fish and Lure Paintings,” works by Mary Anne Lard and Thom Glace, through March 11.

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

Artist of the Month: Jim Lambert

Gallery@Second
608 N. 2nd St., Harrisburg
717-233-2498; galleryatsecond.com

“The Burg 2: About Harrisburg, For Harrisburg,” through March 12.

Works by Nancy Huerter and Chris Lyter, March 14-April 30; reception: March 18, 6-9 p.m.

The Hershey Story Museum
63 W. Chocolate Ave., Hershey
717-534-8939; hersheystory.org

“Chocolate Workers Wanted,” life in Hershey’s chocolate factory from 1905 to 1925, through spring 2016.

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

“Interior,” an exploration of physical, emotional, sculptural and pictorial aspects of interior space through sculptures and paintings by Brian and Naomi Menkis, through May 7.

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

“Illustrations by Liatra Myers,” March through April; reception: March 18, 5-7 p.m.

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

“Eros,” a provocative exhibit by fine art photographer Stewart A., which is intended for a mature audience, through March 26.

“Hard Boiled,” an art tribute to pulp novels and B movies, March 4-April 30; reception: March 4, 6-10 p.m.

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

“The Life and Times of Congressman Robert Smalls,” the story of a man born into slavery, who later rose to the U.S. Congress, through June 2016.

“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

“The Hidden Works of Jay N. ‘Ding’ Darling,” featuring personal works of the pioneering conservationist and cartoonist, through June 18.

“A Four-Year Retrospective: Ned Wert Workshops at Ned Smith Center for Nature and Art,” March 19-26; reception: March 19, 2 p.m.

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

“Stories of Individual Struggles and Personal Growth,” featuring relief paintings and sculptures by Evgeny Krayushkin (ZheKa), through April 2.

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

”Consequences,” photographs by Rita Bernstein, through April 1.

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

“National History Day in Pennsylvania,” highlighting a year-long classroom program that engages students in hands-on historical research and exploration based on the 2016 theme “Exploration, Encounter & Exchange,” March 11-May 1.

“Pennsylvania Modern, A Juried Photography Exhibition of Midcentury Modern Architecture,” honoring iconic and modern architecture, extended through April 24.

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

“New Light: The Pennsylvania Impressionists, Highlights from the Woodmere Art Museum Collection,” through May 22.

Whitaker Center/The Curved Wall
222 Market St., Harrisburg
717-214-ARTS; whitakercenter.org

“Art Center Instructor Exhibition,” featuring the work of the Art Center School and Galleries of Mechanicsburg instructors, through April 1.

WITF Atrium Gallery
4801 Lindle Rd., Harrisburg
717-704-3000; witf.org

“Foundations,” works of photography by Michael Hower, March 1-April 14; reception: March 9, 5-7 p.m.

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

Works by Kyle Baskin, through March 13.

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

“Deep Cuts,” works by SR81, through March 17.

“Facets of Nature,” contemporary impressionism by Meaghan Troup, March 18-April 14.

Read, Make, Learn

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

March 10: “Homemade Pastas and Sauces,” 6-9 p.m.
March 16: “Sunday Dinner Classics,” 6-9 p.m.
March 20: “What is Socialism and the Bernie Sanders Revolution?” 2 p.m.
March 23: “Taste of Thai,” 6-9 p.m.

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

March 6: Maple Sugar Festival, 12-4 p.m.
March 11: “Tales for St. Patrick’s Day,” 7 p.m.
March 16: Author reading: “Hold Your Horses: The Pennsylvania Farm Show at 100” by Mary Klaus, 7 p.m.

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

March 1: Curl Up With the Classics—“Jane Eyre,” 1 p.m.
March 4: Youth Chess Night, 6:30 p.m.
March 5: Story Time and Music Therapy, 3:30 p.m.
March 7: Fredricksen Writes, 6:45 p.m.
March 10, 24: Teen Writers Group, 7 p.m.
March 11: Foreign Film Friday—“Priceless,” 2 p.m., 7 p.m.
March 15: Fredricksen Reads, 7 p.m.
March 15: “Gardening with Nature: Spice up Your Landscape with Herbs,” 7 p.m.
March 17: Kids and Companions Book Club, 6:30 p.m.
March 18: Family Movie Night, 6:30 p.m.
March 20: LEGO Workshop, 2 p.m.
March 22: Zen Coloring, 7 p.m.
March 23: Adventure Crafts—“Secret Agents,” 4:30 p.m.

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

March 5-April 30: Kidprov (ages 5-8), 10:30-11:30 a.m.
March 5-April 30: Kidprov (ages 9-12), 2-3:30 p.m.
March 20: Storytelling Workshop: Untitled Harrisburg, 2-5 p.m.

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

March 3: Immune Boosting Cooking
March 8: Cooking Grains & Beans the Right Way
March 17: A Dietary Guide to Reducing Inflammation
March 22: Healthy Fats Keep You Moving

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

March 2, 9, 16, 23, 30: Common Roads Youth, 6 p.m.
March 5, 12, 19, 26: Weekly Meditation Practice, 11 a.m.
March 6, 13, 20, 27: Alcoholics Anonymous, 12 p.m.
March 7, 14, 21, 28: Common Roads Young Adults, 4 p.m.
March 10: Aging with Pride Lunchtime Discussion, 12 p.m.
March 15: Women’s Group, 6 p.m.

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

March 14-April 25: Ballroom Dance Lessons, 5:30 p.m.

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

March 18: Azaguno: African Drum and Dance Ensemble

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

March 1: Sci-Fi Writer’s Group, 7 p.m.
March 2, 9, 16, 23, 30: Midtown Chess Club, 11 a.m.
March 3: Almost Uptown Poetry Cartel, 7 p.m.
March 4, 11, 18, 25: Nathaniel Gadsden’s Spoken Word Café, 7 p.m.
March 5: Sign Language with Karen, 11 am.
March 5: Good News Café, 6 p.m.
March 8: Dauphin County Young Democrats Meeting, 7 p.m.
March 8, 22: Meet-Up, 9 a.m.
March 10, 17: Camp Curtin Toastmasters, 6:30 p.m.
March 12: Storytime with Samantha, 11 a.m.
March 13, 27: TED Talks, 1 p.m.
March 16: Sci Fi & Fantasy Book Club, 7 p.m.
March 18: Coffee Tasting with Café Staff, 12 p.m.
March 18: Tea Tasting w/Café Staff, 2 p.m.
March 19: Coffee & Critique—Designer Workshop, 8:30 a.m.
March 20: Midtown Writer’s Group, 1 p.m.
March 20: LGBT Book Club, 5 p.m.
March 22: Friends of Midtown Safety Committee, 6:30 p.m.
March 27: Harrisburg Young Professionals Book Club, 2 p.m.
March 28: Feminism Book Club, 7 p.m.

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

March 4: “Letting Go!” Paint Night, 6:30-9:30 p.m.
March 22-May 3: Abstract Painting 7-week class, 6-8:30 p.m.
March 26: Digital Art Photography Workshop, 11 a.m.-4 p.m.

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

March 12: Open House free classes, 9 a.m.-4 p.m.

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

March 5: Free Drop-in Art for Kids, 1-4 p.m.
March 12: “A Novel Idea” writing workshop, 9:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
March 16: Perry County Camera Club, 6-8 p.m.
March 19: Writing Workshop—Writing Plays, 9 a.m.-4 p.m.
March 19: Beginning Basketry: Berry Basket, 10 a.m.-1 p.m.

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

March 6: First Family Sunday, 2-5 p.m.

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

March 1: “Pennsylvania Bats on the Rebound,” 7-8:30 p.m.
March 3: “Educator Workshop—Healthy Water, Healthy People,” 9 am.-3 p.m.
March 6: “Beginner’s Yoga and Walk,” 10-11:30 a.m.
March 12: “Aquatic Insects,” 1-2:30 p.m.
March 12: Volunteer Work Day, 10 a.m.-1 p.m.
March 13: “Kids Discover,” 1-2:30 p.m.
March 19: “Scout Program—Weather Bear Elective,” 10:30-2:30 p.m.
March 19: Photography Workshop, 10 a.m.- 3 p.m.
March 20: “Conservation Video Series—Bald Eagles and Elk in PA,” 1-2:30 p.m.
March 20: “Flower Walk—Cold Tolerant Plants,” 1:30-3 p.m.
March 30: Preschool Storytime: Spring at Wildwood, 10-10:45 a.m.

Live Music Around Harrisburg

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

March 8-9: STOMP
March 15: The Pink Floyd Experience
March 19: The Oak Ridge Boys
March 20: Marty Stuart & Connie Smith
March 29-30: Yanni

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

March 3: Consider the Source
March 4: Midnight Spaghetti & the Chocolate G Strings
March 5: Splintered Sunlight
March 6: De Temps Antan
March 10: PitchBlak Brass Band
March 11: Case 150’s 20^th Anniversary Show
March 12: Dr. Southclaw & Muppet’s Titanium Stardust Machine
March 16: Sythian
March 17: Cornmeal
March 18: Kilmaine Saints
March 25: Jimkata w/Humandala

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

March 1: Daniel Sheehan
March 2: Christine Purcell
March 3: Jessica Perla
March 4, 15, 18: Noel Gevers
March 5, 26: Roy Lefever
March 8: Maria Battista
March 10, 13, 17, 24: Anthony Haubert
March 11, 19: Chris Emkey
March 12, 25: Ted Ansel
March 16, 23: Deborah Anderson
March 22: Corinna Joy

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

March 18: RJD2

March 26: Silverstein

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

March 4: Antonio Andrade
March 5: Womack & Lowery
March 6: Coco & The Bug
March 11: Dominick Cicco
March 12: Kirk Wise
March 13: Jane Ramsey
March 18: Jim Haas
March 19: Steven Gellman
March 20: Shawan and the Wonton
March 25: Jeanine and Friends
March 26: Doug Morris
March 26: “A Night of Protest Music”
March 27: Suzi Brown

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

March 3: Ghost Town Cinema
March 10: Sweet Corn & Peanut
March 17: Tim Cooney
March 24: Shotgun Ragtime Band
March 31: Corty Byron

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

March 5: First Friday w/Vetour Productions
March 18: Melanie Safka w/Eva
March 19: The Bo Deadlys
March 20: The Michelle Canning Band
March 25: The Fleshtones w/The Split Squad & Stupidity
March 26: The Jellybricks, Andy Bopp, Andy Grimm & Matt Monta
Every Monday: Barcrawler Karaoke
Every Tuesday: Open Mic

Harrisburg Symphony Orchestra

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

March 5-6: Hollywood Heroes & Villains
March 12: “Swingin’ on a Star” w/Stuart Malina and his Big Band
March 19-20: Masterworks 5

Hershey Theatre
15 E. Caracas Ave., Hershey
717-534-3405; hersheytheatre.com
March 12: Red Hot Chilli Pipers
March 15-17: Blue Man Group

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

March 4: Stand Tall Baby Doll
March 5: The Luv Gods
March 11: Big Shot (Billy Joel Tribute Band)
March 11: Restless
March 12: Green Eggs
March 18: Uptown
March 19: Gold Dust
March 25: Sunshine Symphony
March 26: Smooth Like Clyde

Johnny Joe’s Sports Bar & Grill
5327 E. Trindle Rd., Mechanicsburg
717-766-2254; johnnyjoesbar.com

March 5: SOS
March 12: Martini Bros.
March 19: Stealing the Covers
March 26: Off the Wagon

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

March 4: Rivers
March 18: Stereoma
March 25: Drew & Ket

Little Amps Coffee Roasters, Uptown
1836 Green St., Harrisburg
717-695-4882; littleampscoffee.com

March 17: Yam Yam

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

March 15: Yamato Drummers of Japan
March 18: Jay & the Americans w/Dennis Tufano

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

March 9: Lady Antebellum’s Charles Kelley

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

March 5: Honduras, Seasonal, Prodigal Suns
March 8: The Receiver, Saint Brendan and the Navigators, Fly Overs

Market Square Concerts
www.marketsquareconcerts.org

March 31: Doric String Quartet

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

March 18: Harrisburg Symphony Youth Orchestra

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

March 5: Funktion
March 12: Shea and Swish of The Luv Gods
March 17: Erich Cawalla Trio
March 19: Still Hang String Band
March 26: Hip 450

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

March 9: Lazyeyes w/Beverly
March 10: David Mayfield Parade
March 18: Hot Jam Factory w/Mellowells & Port Ellis
March 27: Restorations w/Creepoid

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

March 11: Ann Kerstetter Band

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

March 2: Acoustic Stew Open Jam
March 3, 10, 17, 24, 31: Open Electric Jam
March 5: Shawan and the Wonton
March 9: Blue Elephant Open Jam
March 12: Chris Purcell and the Sinners
March 18: Kat Hart & The Norm Eberly Quartet
March 19: Crippled But Free
March 23: Don Johnson Open Jam
March 25: Peoples Open Jam
March 27: Miami Fusion Dance Party

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

March 4: Music thru Science Lite
March 11: Houston Baker
March 12: Song Smith
March 18: US2 Duo
March 19: Up Pops the Devil
March 25: A Perfect Storm
March 26: Visitors Duo

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

March 4: Jazz in the City
March 11: WXPN presents Deer Tick
March 12: Saturday Morning Symphony w/York Symphony Orchestra
March 12: The Piano Men w/York Symphony Orchestra

March 15: Patty Griffin, Sara Watkins and Anaïs Mitchell

Suba Tapas Bar
272 North St., Harrisburg
717-233-7358; mangiaqui.com
March 5: Gary Brown
March 12: Bryan Weber
March 19: Chris Dean

Susquehanna Folk Music Society
sfmsfolk.org

March 6: De Temps Antan
March 13: March Jam Session
March 13: Mick Moloney, Billy McComiskey & Athena Tergis (at Fort Hunter)

The Ware Center
42 N. Prince St., Lancaster
717-871-2308; artsmu.com
March 5: Jazz in the Sky w/Kenia
March 11: Music in the Round: Easy Come, Easy Go

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

March 23: The Ann Wilson Thing

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

March 4: HIP450
March 11: Patty Mac and the Motion
March 25: The Jayplayers

The Stage Door

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

March 5: Bill Engvall
March 6: “Always…Patsy Cline”
March 13: “The Man in Black: A Tribute to Johnny Cash”
March 24: The Temptations & The Four Tops

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

March 3-6: “James and the Giant Peach”

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

Through March 12: “Clue, the Musical”
March 17-April 30: “Menopause, the Musical”

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

Through March 5: “Stone Soup” (Popcorn Hat Players)
March 12-26: “The Seagull”

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

March 17-20: “The Prophets Foretold”

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

March 4-5: Rich Vos
March 11-12: John Moses w/David Beck
March 18-19: Chris Killian & Dusty Slay
March 25-26: Jim Holder and Andy Forrester

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

March 4, 11, 18, 25: Harold Hour
March 5: Mary Todd Lincoln/Love Triangle
March 5: Power Trio
March 5, 19: Monotone—An Improvised Musical
March 12: Introduce A Self
March 12: Missed Connections
March 12: Panzer Division/Pillow Talk
March 26: Hardly Working
Every Saturday: Free Improv Mixer

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

March 13: Sundae Best Variety Show

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

March 18: “Rhythm in the Night,” Irish Dance Spectacular
March 19-20: Theresa Caputo Live

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

March 11: “Say What?” Poetry Night

Little Theatre of Mechanicsburg
915 S. York St., Mechanicsburg
717-766-0535; ltmonline.net

March 25-April 10: “Death Trap”

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

March 19: “Skippyjon Jones Snow What”

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

March 19: Imago Theatre, “ZooZoo”

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

March 18: Comedy Night
March 26: Carraig School of Irish Dance

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

March 12: “The Diary of Anne Frank”

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

March 4-20: “One Man, Two Guvnors”

Rose Lehrman Arts Center
One HACC Drive, Harrisburg
717-780-2435; hacc.edu

March 23: “The Second City”

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

March 3: “Mamma Mia!”
March 5: Frank Ferrante in an Evening with Groucho
March 11: Ron White w/Josh Blue
March 13: “Ailey II”
March 19: “Invincible—A Glorious Tribute to Michael Jackson”

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

March 4: “Anna in the Tropics”
March 12-13: Dance Lancaster—5th Season Festival

York Little Theatre
27 S. Belmont St., York
717-854-5715; ylt.org

March 4-13: “The Taffetas”

House + Art: Habitat’s annual art auction helps folks stay in their homes.

February 29, 2016 | by Rebecca Hanlon

It might be a basement filled with water, a cold wind blowing through an old window pane or a roof that leaks and creaks and falls to pieces.

Each of these home repairs can be a devastating burden on a family, said Antron Watson, assistant executive director of the Habitat for Humanity of the Greater Harrisburg area.

Instead of watching families pack up and abandon their homes when the maintenance becomes too much, Habitat has been hiring contractors to fix the plumbing, put in new insulation and replace the roofs.

“Staying on top of home repairs means we can keep another vacant property from occurring,” Watson said. “We’re offering families the chance to work with professional contractors who offer a warranty on their work. It makes homeownership more of a victory and less of a burden.”

Perhaps the biggest help to making those repairs a reality is Habitat’s annual “Art Builds Homes” art auction. For the 11^th year, the event, scheduled for April 1 at the Hershey Country Club, will showcase the work of local and regional artists.

The event, which typically raises $20,000, is one of the largest fundraisers Habitat hosts, and it helps the organization get out of its slow winter season and jump-start the spring.

Shannon Deatrich, chairperson for the event and a long-time volunteer with Habitat, is bringing back some old favorites to keep the evening entertaining.

When the doors open at 6 p.m., she said, guests will have a chance to mingle with the artists, who will showcase pieces ranging from acrylics to oils, from sculptures and photography. By 7:15 p.m., the art auction will begin in the main ballroom.

“Seeing and talking with the artists makes art feel more obtainable to a lot of people,” Deatrich said. “You can get a piece that’s affordable, original and beautiful. Even if people don’t get the piece they want, this event gives them the chance to connect with the artists and learn about other pieces that might be out there.”

The event also will feature a raffle, as well as a 50/50 drawing. Beer tastings from Tröegs Independent Brewing and wine from Spring Gate Vineyard also will be available for guests as they nibble on gourmet hors d’oeuvres provided by the Hershey Lodge.

The evening can be as formal or casual as anyone likes, Deatrich said. Some people have used the night as an excuse to break out their evening wear and rent a limo. Others come as they are most comfortable.

“The goal is for people to have a good time,” she said. “If that means dressing up or coming in blue jeans, we just want every guest to have fun.”

The money raised through the art auction has helped with a bulk of the home repairs Habitat does, which grants typically don’t cover, Watson said. Some of last year’s auction funds helped pay for the demo and reframing of a rehab project on a vacant property in Steelton.

About 80 percent of Habitat’s work is in critical home repairs, while the remaining 20 percent is in building or rehabbing new homes, Watson said. Building a house might cost $100,000, while keeping someone in his or her current home is $20,000, depending on the repair, he said.

“The biggest thing I’d like people to know is that Habitat is here,” Watson said. “There’s a misconception that we only serve the heart of the city or that we only build homes. In reality, we serve all of Dauphin County, and we want to do everything we can to make sure people are living in safe, secure, accessible and weatherized homes.”

With each piece of art that finds its way into a home, Deatrich said, there’s a Dauphin County resident who gets help staying in their own.

“The whole experience is very rewarding,” she said. “You never know how much you appreciate your own home until you see people who are at risk of losing their own.”

“Art Builds Homes” takes place April 1 at 6 p.m. at the Hershey Country Club, 1000 E. Derry Road, Hershey. Tickets are $25 and are available in advance through the Habitat for Humanity of Greater Harrisburg Area by visiting harrisburghabitat.org/artauction. Tickets also will be available at the door.

From Sky to Sea: Despite retirement, former Camp Hill Mayor Lou Thieblemont moves full-steam ahead.

February 29, 2016 | by Don Helin

Most mornings, when he’s on land, that is, you’ll see Lou Thieblemont holding court at a small table in the dining area of Cornerstone Coffeehouse.

That’s where I typically find him, regaling his breakfast mates with tales of his life as a pilot, his time as Camp Hill mayor and, for the past few years, his adventures on the high seas.

Some people refer to Thieblemont as Camp Hill’s renaissance man, but I don’t know. I just find it fascinating that he’s been able to squeeze so much living into one lifetime.

Taking Off

Thieblemont grew up in New York, went to Catholic high school and attended the New York Institute of Technology, graduating with a degree in communications and broadcasting.

“In high school, I received my pilot’s license at the tender age of 17 and went on to get a commercial pilot’s license and flight instructor’s rating,” he said. “It was kind of funny because I couldn’t drive a car in New York until I turned 18. So, I would need friends to drive me to the airport, then I could give them a plane ride.”

Thieblemont graduated from college in 1967, intent on going into broadcasting, but he continued to teach flying. One day, he saw a brochure announcing that TWA, United and Pan Am were all recruiting pilots. He applied to each of them and was offered employment by all three. TWA presented the earliest class date, so he took a job there in May 1968.

In his long pilot’s career, he had many unique experiences, but one especially stood out.

“The shah of Iran was building up his domestic cattle herd so he contracted with TWA to bring cows to Iran,” he said. “We flew Boeing 707 cargo planes twice a week from the U.S. to Iran with 88,000 pounds of pregnant Herefords.”

He laughed.

“When we arrived in Tehran at nine in the morning, it was already hot so we had to offload the cattle quickly so they wouldn’t die. When we opened the cargo door, hundreds of gallons of cow urine poured out. After the cows were off the plane, we hosed out the cargo area and loaded 88,000 pounds of strawberries and flew them to Paris.”

Soon, the overwhelming aroma of strawberries filled the cockpit air and, to this day, he said, the smell of strawberries brings back one of the strangest days of his life.

Mr. Mayor

Thieblemont flew for TWA until American Airlines bought the carrier in 2001. After four years with American, he retired in 2005 with almost 38 years of experience.

A long-time Camp Hill resident, he had made a name for himself in the borough through volunteer work, which included developing the police department website. Then the position of mayor came open.

“The job of mayor became available due to some mistakes by the incumbent,” he said. “Six of us applied for the remainder of his term. The interview process narrowed the field, and finally I was appointed to serve until the next election. At that time, I ran for the position and was elected to finish the remainder of the four-year term.”

As the full-time mayor of the borough of almost 8,000 residents, Thieblemont had “a multitude of responsibilities.”

“I set up a formal welcoming program and tried to personally meet and greet all new residents to the borough,” he said. “I also started a recycling center for things such as batteries, computers, etc. Then I developed a group of volunteers who would be on call to cut grass, shovel snow or run errands for seniors and disabled folks.”

Of course, he had more mundane mayoral duties, as well. He performed weddings and presented awards at various events and ceremonies. He acted as the borough ombudsman, giving speeches and making presentations. He even got some national publicity when, in 2008, he switched political parties so that he could vote for future President Barack Obama in the Democratic primary.

In 2009, having completed one full term, he decided it was time to move on. So, he didn’t run again.

At Sea

Shortly after retiring as mayor, Thieblemont and his wife took a 12-day cruise to the Caribbean. As they were leaving Baltimore harbor, the cruise director made an announcement that the person scheduled to make presentations was sick.

“Since I’d given a number of talks on a variety of subjects to groups in central Pennsylvania, I offered to substitute with talks on astronomy and Antarctic exploration,” he said. “The cruise director was thrilled. So, I put together a quick PowerPoint presentation, since I didn’t bring any of my computer talks with me.”

That evening, Thieblemont presented his talk in one of the theaters, and the house was packed. After the talk and Q&A, the cruise director told him how much he had enjoyed the presentation and asked him to do others.

“I have been giving talks on various cruise ships ever since,” he said.

So, when you take your next cruise, don’t be surprised to see a picture of the former mayor in the brochure, with a blurb that reads:

“Join the M/S Paul Gauguin’s cruise as a true Renaissance Man offers a series of lectures on topics as diverse as aviation, astronomy, Antarctic exploration, optical illusions and computer graphics.”

That’s just Camp Hill’s Lou Thieblemont, enjoying his post-, post-retirement.

Doing the Opposite: As the community changes, so does Derry Street UMC.

February 29, 2016 | by Susan Ryder

Just three years ago, Derry Street United Methodist Church was floundering.

With only about 28 congregants, this house of worship experienced the financial and building deterioration associated with such a small membership. The beautiful church, with enormous stained glass windows, a pipe organ and expansive space, had an uncertain future. Then Pastor Mack Granderson arrived.

At a time when church attendance nationwide has diminished, this congregation of 28 has grown to 90. It holds two Sunday services, one in English and one in Spanish.

When asked how Derry Street turned its future around, Granderson put it like this: “Do the opposite of what churches have done in the last 70 or 80 years.”

For the most part, churches have remained insular, content to meet the needs of those attending, he said.

“Churches found that they finally needed to recognize that their communities have changed, and they needed to open their doors,” he said.

The church has a long history of working with the Allison Hill Community Ministry, which operates out of the church building. But, recently, Derry Street Church has made a mission of the organization, formalizing the relationship and encouraging church member participation in its work. This allows for more collaboration between the ministry and the church in running a clothing closet, two food ministries that feed 1,400 people a month and a tutoring program, among other initiatives.

Benefactors of the Derry Street Church collaboration, Michael Baublitz, his wife and 3-year-old son, moved to the area after experiencing homelessness. He said that, without the church’s food help, he and his family would be “struggling even harder.”

In addition to these programs, the church building serves as a meeting place for Narcotics Anonymous groups, headquarters for an online Christian radio station, The Voice 17104, and a meal preparation area for Meals on Wheels.

Granderson wants to use as much of this building to serve the community as possible.

“I actually feel that we are committing a sin if we have space within our church and it is not being used for the community good,” he said. “All of this does not belong to us. It is a gift from God almighty, and he is expecting us to use it and to use it well.”

Though Derry Street Church has grown in numbers and mission, Granderson doesn’t take credit for the changes there. The credit, he said, goes to the congregation.

“You have never met a congregation like these people,” he said. “This congregation is extraordinary.”

Doors Open

In the spirit of changing with the community, the church recently began hosting English as a Second Language classes. After coordinating with local small businesses and foundations for funding, Derry Street was able to begin offering the classes, coordinated by HACC.

The community college donated a semester of classes and Derry Street Church, along with individuals and businesses, provided financial support. Granderson expressed gratitude for the philanthropic community’s investment in the people of Allison Hill.

He feels that classes like this are requisite for a way out of poverty.

“We recognize that a number of people within our community were not bilingual, in terms of Spanish to English, and that could hold them back from employment and therefore quality housing,” he said.

The yearlong program expects to graduate 75 students this year.

To further its community outreach, in April, the church will begin a new multicultural, contemporary and interactive worship service called New Breed.

Within a room that holds 15-foot textured, clear, stained-glass pocket doors, Granderson explains where a screen will go and how the sound system and band will be placed for the new service. This room once served as a sanctuary overflow, at a time when 1,000 folks worshipped on any given Sunday. Granderson doesn’t pine for the old days of overflowing pews, however. He plants his thoughts and plans squarely in moving forward.

To help him do so, he enthusiastically embraces technology, even as a 67-year-old digital immigrant. In March, the church will install devices that will allow it to translate services into many languages. This will open the doors even wider to include French-speaking, African-born community members.

Derry Street is not the church of its past, with brimming pews. Perhaps it’s something even richer. A cathedral of sorts, providing leadership to recognize and meet societal needs. A church can gauge its effectiveness by the asking the question, “Would the church be missed if it disappeared?”

“If, for whatever reason, this church did not exist anymore, there would be a lot of hurt in this community,” Granderson said.

Derry Street United Methodist Church is located at 1508 Derry St., Harrisburg. For more information, call 717-233-6441 or visit the Facebook page.

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