Dress for Success: Why use bottled salad dressing when homemade is so easy–and so much better.

December 30, 2015 | by Rosemary Ruggieri Baer

When I was growing up in the Ruggieri household, I think my mother made salad every night. Not some nights, as I do now, but every night. And it was always the same: iceberg lettuce in the colder months, homegrown green lettuce in the spring and summer and always served at the end of our meal as many Italians do.

Our salads were simply dressed with olive oil, vinegar, salt and pepper. My mother bought olive oil in large, metal gallon cans, which she kept on the floor in our little food closet. When her oil cruet was empty, she would lug the big container up to the counter to fill it. And, as I remember it, there were a few calamities in the process. She used ordinary red or white wine vinegar from the grocery store. Her family was Sicilian, and I never heard any of them ever utter the word “balsamic.”

Early in my “cooking life,” I experimented with bottled dressings (remember Wishbone?). Like many people, I suppose, I enjoyed mixing up a “Good Seasons” dressing in a little glass cruet with its spice pack and “just add oil” directions. But time has passed, and now I make my own salad dressings almost exclusively. I love vinaigrettes and take the opportunity to try new recipes when I find them.

Here are some things I have learned from my foray into the world of salad dressings, specifically making good vinaigrettes.

The oil-to-vinegar ratio is usually 3:1. However, if you prefer a more acidic dressing, increase the vinegar portion.
Use good, unflavored olive oil. Some specialty salads might call for oil like walnut or hazelnut, but, for simple green salads, plain olive oil is best.
The same goes for vinegar. Use high-quality red or white wine vinegar or a good balsamic if a balsamic vinaigrette is what you’re making.
If you want only a hint of garlic in your dressing, use a smashed whole clove instead of mincing it.
Make your dressing in a jar with a tight lid rather than a bowl. A jar is best for mixing.
Dressing can keep several weeks in the fridge, but take the jar out before using and bring it to room temperature.
You can shake your jar to emulsify the dressing but a little wire whisk works, as well. Some dressing recipes suggest using a blender.
Don’t be afraid to add sugar or honey to the dressing if the recipe calls for it. It really takes the edge off the vinegar and adds a nice smoothness.
Experiment with different herbs. If the recipe calls for some chopped thyme, try basil if you like it better.
Keep tasting. I may add more salt or honey or sugar or lemon juice than the recipe calls for.
When dressing a salad with balsamic dressing, only use a little. This dressing can overwhelm the greens.
If the dressing calls for lemon juice, always use fresh. It makes a big difference. Adding a little grated lemon rind is nice too.
Always blend the dressing well before using. The ingredients will separate when standing.

The two dressing recipes that follow are ones I make all the time. The first is a red wine vinaigrette from Giada De Laurentis, well-known Food Network star and cookbook author. The second is from the owner of Patsy’s New York restaurant, Sal Scognamillo. You might be surprised at how easy they both are to make.

Giada’s Red Wine Vinaigrette

½ cup red wine vinegar
¼ cup fresh lemon juice
2 teaspoons honey
2 teaspoons salt (sea salt works well)
¾ teaspoon freshly ground pepper
1 cup extra virgin olive oil

Mix the vinegar, lemon juice, honey, salt and pepper in a blender. With the machine running, gradually blend in the oil. Season it to taste with more salt and pepper. That’s it! Pour into a jar, and it’s ready to use.

Patsy’s Balsamic Vinaigrette

¾ cup extra virgin olive oil
¼ cup balsamic vinegar
1 garlic clove (minced or crushed)
1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh basil
Salt and freshly ground pepper to taste

Place all the ingredients in a screw-top jar. Close tightly and shake until thoroughly blended.

So, in a few minutes, you can make your own fresh salad dressings that are free of preservatives and lower in salt if you need to control your sodium. Like everything else in cooking, homemade is best. And you won’t mind eating salad every day.

Mid-Winter Warm-up: Hot young bands break the chill.

December 30, 2015 | by Andrew Dyrli Hermeling

Lower Dens. Photo courtesy of Shawn Brackbill.

A new year, a fresh start. Well, here in Harrisburg, we’re starting the year off with a bang.

Deep in the cold of winter, some hot up-and-coming bands and artists will be making their way through the capital. Rich with heartfelt songwriting, retro stylings and dreamy nostalgia, each artist brings a unique take on the pop music craft. So lace up your winter boots, get out your mittens, and make it out for the month’s slate of superb music.

LOWER DENS, 1/20, 9PM, THE MILLWORKS, FREE, 21+: This Baltimore indie-pop band, headed by acclaimed artist Jana Hunter, has earned accolades from many of music’s top critics, including the coveted “Best New Music” label from Pitchfork. Their latest album, “Escape from Evil,” has propelled them even further into the spotlight, making their stop here in Harrisburg all the more special. Described as “queer retrofuturism” by the folks at Pitchfork, Lower Dens harkens back to traditional pop song structures even as they push artistic boundaries and employ innovative and experimental textures. Whether you are already familiar with their work or looking to discover a new, off-kilter favorite, this band is of such quality that they demand to be checked out.

WEEKENDER w/SUBURBAN LIVING, 1/23, 11PM, H*MAC, $5, 21+: Philadelphia’s Weekender is a dreamy chillwave band akin to Washed Out and Toro y Moi. Shimmering melodies and fuzzed out guitars ooze pop nostalgia, all while sounding fresh and current. They’ll be touring in support of their second EP, “Floaty, Feeling Blue.” This new record features lush analog synthesizers, reinforcing the band’s warm, warped aesthetic. Weekender will be joined by Suburban Living, also from Philadelphia. Equally poppy with a similarly retro aesthetic, the band conjures up New Order dancy-ness, a perfect complement to Weekender’s trippy psychedelia.

TYLER MICHAEL LAW w/JESSE BARKI, 1/29, 6:30PM, LITTLE AMPS DOWNTOWN, $5 SUGGESTED DONATION: Tyler Michael Law is a folk singer of the traditional American pedigree. Hailing from Shippensburg, he approaches songwriting firmly rooted in the blues and protest music tradition. He will be joined by Annville’s Jesse Barki. More stripped down than Tyler, Jesse’s somber acoustic music drips with emotion. Both artists are storytellers, making the intimate setting of this show fitting. I strongly recommend you brave the January chill to warm up with a latte and take in the sounds of two men who wear their hearts on their sleeves.

Mentionables: John Kadlecik Band, 1/2, Abbey Bar; Stephen Lee & Evy Zee, 1/8, Little Amps Downtown; Andromeda, 1/9, H*MAC; Rivers, 1/9, The Millworks; Southside Johnny & the Asbury Jukes, 1/22, Whitaker Center

Mexico to the Midstate: The Garcias have grown a business around food and family.

December 30, 2015 | by Julie Vitto

Anyone who’s had a craving for good Mexican food around here knows there are quite a few options. In a crowded field, it’s difficult to stand out.

But that’s what Juan and Lisa Garcia have done. For nearly a decade, the enterprising restaurateurs have worked hard to create fun, go-to restaurants, whether you’re in the mood for dinner, a quick bite, tapas or just drinks.

The restaurant business isn’t for everyone. But the Garcias have consistently shown an ability to find new ways to serve different types of customers—and then to execute their vision.

Different Worlds

Born the second oldest of 10 children in a small town in Jalisco, Mexico, Juan was brought up working on farms. By the time he was a teenager, he was toiling in Pennsylvania and sending money home to support his family.

“That was how families could progress down there,” he said.

Lisa was born the younger of two sisters and raised in the Harrisburg area in what she describes as a typical, suburban middle-class life. For her family, education was the top priority.

“My parents didn’t want me or my sister to work during the school year because they considered it our jobs to get good grades,” she said.

Although the couple came from two different worlds, they would eventually find themselves working together at a pizza shop and began dating. They later married in Mexico and lived for the next two years in La Paz de Ordaz, the small town where Juan’s family resides.

“There was a certain amount of culture shock,” said Lisa, who described what it was like to live in another country for the first time.

Small-town life had fewer modern amenities than she was used to, but, she said, the experience was like going back in time a generation to when things were simpler in the United States.

While mail delivery was not always reliable, Lisa recalled the convenience of daily food deliveries. Produce trucks would come into town selling fresh fruit and vegetables by the kilo, she said. Also, tortilla trucks would drive through the town selling the freshly made product twice a day. People could step outside of their front door and buy ingredients for the day’s meal.

The couple’s shared appreciation for fresh, local ingredients and love of Mexican culture would inspire them to open the first of many restaurants after they arrived back in the United States.

A Good Team

The Garcias’ early days back in the midstate started with the co-ownership of a pizzeria with one of Juan’s brothers. Lisa worked a full-time day job while expecting their first son.

“We felt like we made a good team,” Lisa said of their working relationship. “He was more of a kitchen guy, and I was more front of the house.”

Juan described playing around with recipes for El Sol at the pizzeria, developing some signature salsas before the new restaurant became a reality.

They explained that, at the time, former Harrisburg Mayor Steve Reed wanted to make S. 3^rd Street an international dining district. The Garcias liked how close the street was to everything else downtown.

“We just felt like it was the right place,” said Juan.

Navigating the maze of start-up costs proved to be a daunting task. Not many banks were eager to lend money for a restaurant, they explained, which forced them to shop around for financing with a toddler and another baby on the way.

“We had to put a lien on our house,” said Lisa. “It was kind of scary, but we both had faith and just pushed forward.”

Juan acted as the general contractor for the restaurant renovation, laying the floor tiles in the dining room with his own hands. He also used his eye for design, transforming the space into an oasis in the middle of the city.

After much work, El Sol Mexican Restaurant opened its doors in May 2007.

“Why pay someone to do designs for you when you can do it just as well yourself?” said Lisa. “We have a lot of sweat equity in all of the restaurants, but El Sol is the biggest. It’s our baby because it was the first.”

Seeing Potential

Since it opened, El Sol’s momentum has been building quickly.

In late 2009, as the Garcias were expecting their third son, they opened El Sol Express in Camp Hill. The location was later sold to Juan’s brother, Pedro.

Next came Tierra Café and Grill on Lindle Road in 2012. Last year, the name and menu were retired, and it turned into a second El Sol Express.

In 2013, downtown Harrisburg saw the addition of the corner taqueria, Taco Solo, which completed an expansion in June on 2^nd Street.

Their most recently completed project is La Noche Cantina, a small plates wine bar that opened just next door to El Sol in November 2014.

The Garcias are proud of what they’ve built over the years, but agree that the restaurant business isn’t for everyone. Being there for the kids is a priority for the couple, and finding a balance isn’t always easy. In fact, these days, Lisa focus on raising their family, while still performing some administrative duties.

Fortunately, diners in the Harrisburg area can reap the benefits of the Garcias’ hard work, sacrifice and vision at a growing number of restaurants, in a growing number of locations.

“When I see potential, I like to do something about it,” said Juan.

The Garcia’s flagship restaurant, El Sol Mexican Restaurant, is located at 18 S. 3^rd St., Harrisburg. For more information, visit www.elsolmexicanrestaurant.com or call 717-901-5050

Community Corner: Notable Events in January

December 30, 2015 | by Burg Editor

Penguin Plunge
Jan. 1: Welcome the New Year by getting your feet wet in the Susquehanna River with hundreds of other supporters of the Humane Society of Harrisburg. The event begins at 10 a.m. on City Island Beach in Harrisburg with the actual plunge at noon. For more information, visit www.humanesocietyhbg.org.

Scavenger Hunt
Jan. 1: Head to the Hershey Story, 63 West Chocolate Ave., for a New Year’s Scavenger Hunt from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Search through the museum for signs of the New Year and end your hunt with a sweet reward. Visit hersheystory.org or call 717-534-8939 for more details.

Cabin Fever Walk
Jan. 2: Work off some of that holiday cheer on a 3-mile walk on the East Shore Trail and Tall Timbers Trail at Wildwood Lake, 1 to 2:30 p.m. Along the way, learn about the principles of “Leave No Trace.” Information is at wildwoodlake.org.

Winter Reading Club
Jan. 2-March 31: Dauphin County Library System invites users to participate in the 2016 Winter Reading Club, “Everything Old is New Again.” Read, listen to or view eight items to earn a bestselling paperback book and a chance to win a Kindle Fire at each DCLS library. Register online or at your local library beginning Jan. 2. Visit dcls.org or call Holly Etzweiler at 717-232-7286.

Eat Smart, Play Smart
Jan. 7-Feb. 25: PinnacleHealth hosts “Eat Smart, Play Smart” classes on Thursday evenings, 6:30 to 8 p.m., at the Jewish Community Center, 3301 N. Front St., Harrisburg. Health professionals will teach children and teens, ages 6 to 14, how to choose healthy meals and snacks, enjoy an active lifestyle and feel good about themselves. Cost is $25, refundable upon graduation. Classes require parental or guardian presence. Call 717-231-8900 or visit pinnaclehealth.org.

Kids Building Workshop
Jan. 9: Join GO STEAM! of Elizabethtown at Midtown Scholar Bookstore, 1302 N. 3^rd St., Harrisburg, for a morning of engineering with JUMBO bricks, beginning at 11 a.m. Build a boat, a bridge, a dinosaur and more while sharing some favorite engineering books. GO STEAM! provides STEAM Education (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art and Math) classes to children ages 3 to 12. For more, visit gosteamkids.com or midtownscholar.com.

2016 Farm Show
Jan. 9-16: Celebrate the 100th Anniversary of the PA Farm Show, the largest indoor agriculture show in the nation, at the PA Farm Show Complex and Expo Center, N. Cameron and Maclay streets, Harrisburg. Milk a cow, enjoy a famous Farm Show milkshake or learn first-hand the science and skills used in agriculture. Visit farmshow.state.pa.us for more information.

Photo Contest Awards
Jan. 10: Join Wildwood Park, 100 Wildwood Way, for Friends of Wildwood’s Annual Photography Contest awards ceremony from 1 to 3 p.m. The contest exhibition will be on display through Jan. 17. For more information, visit wildwoodlake.org or call 717-221-0292.

Stewartstown Railroad
Jan. 12: Harrisburg Chapter of the National Railway Historical Society will host John W. van Briesen, railroad vice president, for a presentation on “Stewartstown Railroad: Restoration and Preservation,” at Hoss’s Restaurant, 743 Wertzville Rd., Enola. Business meeting and speaker begin at 7 p.m., with a meal available as early as 5 p.m. For more information, contact Sloan Auchincloss at 717-238-2131.

Chamber Mixer
Jan. 14: Socialize with local business professionals at the West Shore Chamber of Commerce’s monthly mixer, 5 to 7 p.m., at Gift & Associates CPAs, 1205 Manor Dr., Suite 200, Mechanicsburg. More information is at wschamber.org.

3rd in The Burg
Jan. 15: Enjoy the best of Harrisburg during 3rd in the Burg, the monthly arts and culture event at galleries, restaurants and art spaces throughout downtown and Midtown. Check out all the action at thirdintheburg.org.

Museum Presentation
Jan. 15: The Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission (PHMC) will host a free presentation and tour during 3rd in the Burg at The State Museum, 300 North St., Harrisburg, focusing on the architecture of The State Museum and Archives Complex as captured by photographers in the current “PA Modern: A Photography Exhibit of Midcentury Architecture.” The evening will feature PHMC Preservation Architect Andrea Lowery, exhibit curator Amy Hammond and exhibit photographers. Visit statemuseum.org.

Dine and Donate
Jan. 16: Join Grain + Verse Bottlehouse, 148 Sheraton Drive, New Cumberland, for a fundraiser to benefit the Sperenza Animal Rescue, 6 p.m. Sperenza Animal Hospital will be in attendance to provide awareness and education about animal rescue, and Grain + Verse will donate a portion of dinner proceeds to the rescue. For more information, visit grainandverse.com.

MLK Day of Service
Jan. 18: Hundreds of central Pennsylvania residents will participate in the Central Pennsylvania Martin Luther King, Jr. Day of Service, tackling local problems and advancing King’s dream of opportunity for all. Learn how to get involved at centralpamlkday.org. In addition, Friends of Midtown will gather to perform community service projects. If you would like to participate, meet at the Neighborhood Center, 1801 N. 3^rd St., Harrisburg at 11:30 a.m. Visit friendsofmidtown.org.

CapCOG Annual Dinner
Jan. 18: Join the Capital Region Council of Governments at the West Shore Country Club, 100 Brentwater Rd., Camp Hill, for its annual dinner, reorganization meeting and presentation of the Perry Albert Award. The reception begins at 5:30 p.m., with dinner starting at 6:30 p.m. The keynote speaker will be Capt. Rudy Geisler, commander of Naval Support Activity, Mechanicsburg/Philadelphia. For details, visit capitalregioncog.org.

New Member Social
Jan. 19: Join Harrisburg Young Professionals for its New Member Social at 6 p.m. at Café 1500 in Harrisburg. The New Member Social is an event solely for new members who would like to learn more about how to become involved and make the most of a membership with HYP. More information is at hyp.org.

Tracking Program
Jan. 23: Join a naturalist to learn the art of tracking. The program begins in the classroom before heading out to Wildwood Park’s trails. Meet in the Nature Center at 10 a.m.; $5 fee per person. More information is at wildwoodlake.org.

Beer Dinner
Jan. 23: Head to Garlic Poet Restaurant & Bar, 148 Sheraton Dr., New Cumberland, for a Chef’s Table Beer Dinner, featuring Liquid Hero Brewery of York, 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. Executive Chef Kurt Wewer will partner Liquid Hero brews with a special four-course meal. Tickets are $55. For more information, visit garlicpoet.com.

Winter Soiree
Jan. 23: Central Penn College, 600 Valley Rd., Summerdale, will host a Winter Soiree to benefit education and exhibition programs by the Art Association of Harrisburg, 5 to 8 p.m. Live music by Jonathan Frazier. Enjoy refreshments and theater surprises throughout the evening. Reservations are $40 in advance and $45 at the door. Visit artassocofhbg.com or call 717-236-1432 to make reservations.

Local Lunch
Jan. 23: Join Friends of Midtown at their monthly community lunch, which will be held at Yellow Bird Café, 1320 N. 3rd St., Harrisburg, 12 to 2 p.m. Contact [email protected] or visit friendsofmidtown.org.

Enso String Quartet
Jan. 23: GRAMMY-nominated Enso String Quartet presents a centennial anniversary concert of two 20th century composers, Alberto Ginastera and Henry Dutilleux, at Whitaker Center, 222 Market St., Harrisburg, at 8 p.m. There will be a pre-concert presentation with Dr. Richard Strawser at 7:15 p.m. Tickets are $35, $30 for seniors, $5 for college students and free for school-age students with a $10 ticket for one accompanying adult. For tickets, visit marketsquareconcerts.org, or call 717-214-ARTS or 717-221-9599. Remaining tickets will be available at the door.

Legislator Forum
Jan. 26: Join the Harrisburg Regional Chamber, in cooperation with the West Shore Chamber of Commerce, for the 2016 Legislators’ Forum, featuring area members of the state House of Representatives. The event takes place at the Harrisburg Hilton, 8 to 10 a.m. Cost is $40 for members and $65 for non-members. For more information, visit harrisburgregionalchamber.org.

Middle East Talk
Jan. 28: Foreign Policy Association of Harrisburg will host Juliette Tolay, assistant professor of political science/public policy at Penn State Harrisburg, in a free talk on “Europe’s Perception of U.S. Foreign Policy” at 7:30 p.m. at the Radisson Hotel Harrisburg, Camp Hill. Reception is at 5:30 p.m. and dinner at 6:30 p.m. Cost is $27 or $24 for FPA members. For more information, visit fpa-harrisburg.org.

2016 Auto Show
Jan. 28-31: Roll into the annual PA Auto Show, an event that features what’s new and exciting in the world of automobiles. The four-day show takes place at the state Farm Show Complex in Harrisburg. More information is at motortrendautoshows.com.

Relaxed Repast: A meal, a beverage, with a side of mindfulness, at Mellow Minded Cafe.

December 30, 2015 | by Cathy Jordan

When you walk into a place called Mellow Minded Café, you should know what to expect: relaxation, comfort and good health.

You also know what not to expect. This is not your place if you like listening to ‘80s hair bands on vinyl while wolfing down a sandwich.

In September, Mark and Lori Everest opened this oasis in the heart of Linglestown purposely to create a quiet, mindful escape for patrons. The restaurant’s concept actually originated with their son, Marcus, who struggled with anxiety and addiction. He came up with the name and everything the restaurant stands for.

“Feel good about yourself before and after you eat,” said Lori. “Sit in a relaxed atmosphere where everyone has value, is accepted and can talk about things no one really talks about.”

A Good Life

Mark and Lori have lived in the Harrisburg area for more than 20 years. They own two businesses above the café, Occupational Athletics and The Game Plan for Living, which is a website dedicated to energy, health and information.

When the prior first-floor business, First Impressions Spa, closed, Lori thought about what should take its place.

“We didn’t want another office or a retail space,” she said.

She knew it had to be something healthy and positive and that mental health would come into the plan. The couple decided on a restaurant, which evolved from a perceived need in the community.

“I wanted somewhere to eat and not feel gross afterward,” said Lori.

The couple hired Chef Shawn Grant, who specializes in organic, sustainable and raw foods.

“We want animals and people to have a good life,” said Grant, commenting on his menu items. “We are very sensitive to people’s needs, and a big percentage of customers have dietary and allergy restrictions.”

Sourcing as much food as possible from Dauphin County, Grant drives to Shady Acres Farm to pick out the hens while they’re still clucking. Grass-fed and locally raised beef comes from Warrington Farm Meats in Dillsburg.

“And all meat comes from the same animal at the same time,” he said. “No manufacturer, no mass-produced food.”

Even the head of the cow is used to make head cheese—not a dairy product, but a cold cut that originated in Europe—which is sliced thin and served on crostini.

Real Things

When you walk into Mellow Minded Café, you place your salad, sandwich or small/large plate order at the register and then have a seat on a refurbished chair at a handmade table.

Or you can sit in the Cozy Corner, a little niche separated from the café where you can relax on a couch and write what “mellow minded” means to you on wall-sized chalkboard. In the restaurant, repurposed pallet boards cover most of the walls, and works by local artists decorate the café.

“I didn’t want to hire out for furniture or decorations,” said Lori. “It was way more fun to do it this way.”

Essential oils scent the handicapped-accessible bathroom, and a large community board has local postings. An open book and pen near the front door are ready for words of encouragement, troubles and comments.

The café employs real people doing real things. Daughters manage the business. Son-in-law Shane, who works full time at a bank, comes to the restaurant on his break, takes off his suit jacket, rolls up his sleeves and washes dishes. The employees in the separate businesses upstairs come down to help when it gets busy.

“I really love being here,” said Lori. “It’s kind of become an obsession.”

The couple recently added fire pits and a temporary porch enclosure. There is also a large deli case near the register for on-the-go food.

Soon after opening, they also helped found the Linglestown Artisan Trail, along with several other business owners: Marty Schoffstall of Spring Gate Vineyard, Geof Smith of St. Thomas Roasters, Melissa Rhoads of Made to Keep and Audra Dougherty of Mud Queen Pottery. Their goal is to promote the village and bring in businesses that are customer-oriented. Art, food, music, cider and wine can be experienced as you walk from one establishment to another.

Looking ahead, Grant said he would like to do more catering, while Lori wants the café to host small workshops during downtime. Mark wants to publish a “Mellow Minded Newsletter” on mellow things, attitude adjustment and informational resources.

Mark said he also plans to install a box by the entryway, so visitors can “leave their worries at the door.” The idea is to write down stresses on a piece of paper and drop them in.

I de-stressed by ordering a delicious spiced mango/peach and carrot smoothie and some kombucha probiotic tea, a drink based on an ancient fermentation technique. I found myself lingering for some time in the calming atmosphere and enjoying the healthy, innovative menu.

“Don’t worry about your food here,” Mark said to me. “Everything is coming from a good place.”

And it was a good place. I left with a full stomach and a smile and tossed the rest of that Pop Tart sitting on my car’s dash.

Mellow Minded Café is located at 5943 Linglestown Rd., Harrisburg (Linglestown). For more information, visit www.mellowmindedcafe.com or call 717-963-7633.

December News Digest

December 30, 2015 | by Lawrance Binda

2016 Budget Passed

Harrisburg City Council last month passed the city’s 2016 spending plan, a $60.7 million budget crafted by the city administration

Council voted 5-2 in favor of the budget, though council President Wanda Williams said the spending plan would be reopened and reconsidered in January, once three new council members take their seats.

Two public hearings will precede a vote on a revised budget, she said.

As passed last month, the budget adds 36 new positions, half in a newly created Neighborhood Services division, which would be funded out of city trash bills. Besides sanitation, the new division absorbs many functions previously funded by taxes, including some road and parks maintenance.

The administration also has proposed tripling the local services tax (LST) to $3 per week per worker. The Commonwealth Court must first approve the hike, which then must be sanctioned by council.

The LST is a tax on people who have jobs in the city and earn more than an annual threshold income, which is proposed to be about $24,000. While it does affect some city residents, most of the burden falls on commuters, a point made repeatedly last month by Mayor Eric Papenfuse.

Council members Brad Koplinski and Sandra Reid were the lone votes against the spending plan. Both said they believed the budget contained excess spending and objected to any increase in the LST.

It was the final meeting for Koplinski and Reid, as well as for three-term Councilwoman Susan Brown-Wilson. Reid and Brown-Wilson did not seek re-election last year, while Koplinski lost his seat in the Democratic primary.

This month, three new council members will be sworn into office: Cornelius Johnson, Westburn Majors and Destini Hodges.

TRAN OK’d

For a third straight year, Harrisburg is issuing a tax and revenue anticipation note, a form of short-term borrowing meant to cover a potential budget shortfall.

City Council voted unanimously last month to enter into an agreement with M&T Bank for the $4.5 million TRAN, which carries an interest rate of 2.53 percent and includes a $5,000 nonrefundable fee. Any drawdown on the loan must be repaid by June 30.

Municipal finances are typically tight for the first three months of the year, until the city begins to receive property tax revenue in March. Harrisburg entered into similar loan agreements in 2014 and 2015, but never had to tap them for funds.

City officials, however, said they were more concerned this year due to the state budget deadlock. At press time, the legislature still had not passed a budget, meaning that the state’s $5 million annual contribution to the city for emergency services had not been agreed to or paid.

Streetlight Project Launched

Harrisburg last month officially launched its citywide streetlight project, which will replace all 6,100 existing streetlights with new LED bulbs.

The $3.7 million project, the largest of its kind in Pennsylvania, should be completed by April.

Officials said the project would cut the city’s electric bill by two-thirds, saving more than $500,000 per year, and that the project would pay for itself in about six years. The savings are guaranteed under a contract with The Efficiency Network, a Pittsburgh-based company managing the upgrade.

The bulk of the project cost is being paid with a $3.2 million loan from M&T Bank. The city is seeking a grant from Impact Harrisburg, a nascent nonprofit promoting infrastructure improvement and economic development, which would allow it to pay off the bank loan early if awarded.

Part of the cost is also being paid by a $500,000 grant from the Pennsylvania Energy Development Authority and a $30,000 donation from Lighten Up Harrisburg, an organization that raises money to improve city lighting through an annual 5K run.

State Rebukes Fraud Charge

The state agency overseeing Harrisburg’s financial recovery has sharply critiqued public accusations of fraud by Mayor Eric Papenfuse in a private letter, calling them “unsubstantiated” and “categorically untrue.”

Dennis M. Davin, secretary of the Department of Community and Economic Development, wrote that his agency was “distressed” by Papenfuse’s claims that consultants had intentionally misrepresented how much money the city would get from its parking system.

“The team dedicated to supporting the City of Harrisburg’s recovery efforts is committed to providing the highest level of professional assistance,” Davin wrote in the letter, which TheBurg obtained through an open records request. “Given this fact, we take any allegations of fraud very seriously.”

Davin signed the letter in his role as chairman of the Pennsylvania Economic Development Financing Authority, a funding arm of his department that issued $286 million in bonds to finance the 2013 lease of the city’s parking system.

Papenfuse made his remarks at the authority’s Oct. 21 board meeting, when he addressed shortfalls in the so-called “waterfall” payments that provide critical money to the city out of overall parking revenues. The mayor suggested that professionals working on the lease had knowingly misrepresented the amount of money the system would produce.

“Frankly, I believe that these numbers of waterfall payments were inflated simply to make the numbers work for the Strong Plan, which means that essentially a fraud was perpetrated on you and us and the residents of the city,” Papenfuse said.

Papenfuse told the board that annual parking revenues to the city were around $1 million short. He said that as a result the city would have to raise taxes, and he urged the board to “hold somebody accountable” for the incorrect projections.

New School Board President

A divided Harrisburg school board last month elected Danielle Robinson as its new president.

Robinson was elected by a 4-3 vote, eking past James Thompson, who will remain vice president.

The board needed to seat a new president after the sudden resignation of former President Jennifer Smallwood, who was just re-elected in November. At press time, the board had not yet selected a replacement for Smallwood.

HDID Reauthorized

The Harrisburg Downtown Improvement District has been reauthorized for another two years.

The Harrisburg City Council voted to reauthorize the nonprofit through Dec. 31, 2017, countering the wishes of HDID officials, who had sought a five-year extension.

Since forming in 2000, the HDID has had three, five-year renewals. However, the city administration supported just a two-year extension this time so that it could more quickly assess HDID’s progress in making downtown cleaner, more attractive and more supportive of businesses.

Most of HDID’s $780,000 annual budget derives from a tax on commercial properties within the district, which covers a 25-block area of downtown Harrisburg from State Street to just south of Harrisburg Hospital.

In a public hearing in October, HDID officials staunchly defended their record of helping to keep downtown attractive and safe, even though some business owners said it should expand its mission to include areas like parking and promotion.

“Two years, five years, 10 years—it doesn’t matter,” said HDID Executive Director Todd VanderWoude following the council vote. “We’ll just keep on rolling.”

Jackson Hotel Sells

The historic Jackson Hotel has new ownership, as former City Council candidate Jeremiah Chamberlin last month bought the dilapidated property with plans to restore it.

Chamberlin purchased the three-story building on the 1000-block of N. 6^th Street in Harrisburg for $4,000 from Kerry and Lessa Helm, who had bought it earlier in the year from Dave and Diana Kegris.

For many years, German Jackson operated a hotel from the property, catering primarily to African-American visitors who were shut out of the city’s whites-only establishments.

Jackson willed the property to Kegris, who opened the Jackson House restaurant next door. Kegris, though, could not find funds to restore the large, Gothic-style main building, which became increasingly run down.

So Noted

GK Visual soon will move into a new home in the Old Fox Ridge neighborhood of Midtown Harrisburg, allowing the visual production company to grow and expand capacity. Owner Nate Kresge said his company bought the 7,000-square-foot building at 933 Rose St. last month. The building triples the company’s space from its current location in Uptown Harrisburg.

Harristown Enterprises has purchased the building housing one of Harrisburg’s oldest businesses, Walker’s Art & Framing. Under its acquisition wing, Dewberry LLC, Harristown bought the building for $350,000 from the Walker family, who will continue to run the 58-year-old business at 25 S. 3^rd St., said Harristown President and CEO Brad Jones. Harristown needed the building to complete its acquisition of a five-townhouse row, which will now be renovated with commercial space on the ground floors and apartments above, Jones said. Harristown also is renovating a six-story brick building across the street, converting the long-time office space to 15 high-end, one-bedroom apartments.

Amma Jo LLC opened a showroom location last month in Strawberry Square at 320 Market St. Run by Amma Johnson, Ammo Jo focuses on designer handbags and accessories. It serves as a fulfillment center and also features special in-store retail events. For more information, visit www.shopammajo.com.

Keystone K9, a “one-stop pet service,” debuted last month at 931 N. 7^th St. in Harrisburg. In addition to a doggie daycare, Keystone K9 offers training, grooming and boarding. More information can be found at www.keystone-k9.com.

Phyllo Greek Cuisine opened last month in the stone building of the Broad Street Market. Run by mother Anna Ntzanis and her daughter, Katerina, the stand offers a menu of Greek food staples, such as pastitsio, moussaka and spanakopita. The Ntzanis family has long run Harrisburg’s Midtown Tavern.

Capital Area Transit last month began new bus service between Harrisburg/Steelton and the Allen Road warehouses in Carlisle. The new Route C allows workers to connect to jobs in the growing warehouse complex, which houses several major employers.

Changing Hands

Calder St., 122 & 1332 N. 2^nd St.: R. & C. Horst to Bitner Rentals LLC, $600,000

Conoy St., 117: N. Woods to Mannjeim LLC, $40,000

Edward St., 240: E. Pappas to C. Messinger, $205,000

Fulton St., 1400: PA Deals LLC to Heller Investments LLC, $110,000

Green St., 1928: M. & S. Young to J. Hardie & T. Craven, $207,000

Green St., 1935: N. Williams to R. Holder, $212,000

Hale Ave., 375: M. & V. Cecka to RDR Property Management LLC, $50,000

Kensington St., 2318: M. & V. Cecka to RDR Property Management LLC, $45,000

Lewis St., 245: Secretary of Housing & Urban Development & Michaelson, Connor & Boul to M. Sheehan, $47,011

Market St., 1435: K. Quenzer to J. & M. Fitzgibbon, $33,000

North St., 239: K. Sheetz to D. McClellan, $225,000

N. 2^nd St., 935: C. Group to Zecharya International Inc., $50,000

N. 2^nd St., 2135: PA Deals LLC to Heller Investments LLC, $96,400

N. 2^nd St., 2743: US Bank National Association to A. McGinley, $60,000

N. 2^nd St., 3107: S. Howell & F. Nedermeyer to P. Bernd, $114,900

N. 3^rd St., 3221: PA Deals LLC to G. & J. Modi, $145,000

N. 4^th St., 1629: GWD Capitol Heights LP to E. Harrington, $97,000

N. 5^th St., 1628, L159: M. Saavedra to Braemar Properties LLC, $111,387

N. 5^th St., 2552: M. Haubert to D. Mallek & W. Sarris, $99,900

N. 15^th St., 183 & 185: N. Gorzynski to S. & D. Fenton & Exit Realty Capital Area Property Management, $56,935

N. Front St., 1525, Unit 313: K. Schiebel to M. Hadginske, M. Pasick & A. Steel, $89,000

N. Summit St., 28: JSD Properties LLC to L. Pitts, $32,318

Rudy Rd., 2323: O. Saleh to S. Oberlin & R. Delumen, $145,000

Rumson Dr., 310: R. & P. Giordano to E. Allen, $79,000

S. 2^nd St., 304: K. Harrison to R. & C. Trimnell, $49,000

S. 3^rd St., 25: D. & J. Walker to Dewberry LLC, $350,000

S. 17^th St., 1038: C. & S. Vazquez to C. Nguyen, $66,000

S. 19^th St., 21; 2042 N. 4^th St.; 228 Boas St.; & 1901 Forster St.: R. Shokes & Shokes Enterprises LLC to JDP 2014 LLC, $327,000

S. 25^th St., 602: M. & V. Cecka to RDR Property Management LLC, $50,000

S. 27^th St., 737: N. Shrawder to R. Reyes, $80,000

S. Front St., 801: Wells Fargo Bank NA to M. Boyer, $66,000

Susquehanna St., 1606: F. Cadmus to S. Christ, $95,000

Harrisburg property sales for November 2015, greater than $30,000. Source: Dauphin County. Data is assumed to be accurate.

Happenings: Our January Calendar of Events

December 30, 2015 | by Admin

Museum & Art Spaces

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

“Exploration of Emotions,” featuring acrylic paintings by Amy Powell, Jan.15-Feb. 12; reception: Jan. 15, 6-9 p.m.

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

“Cars & Christmas,” through Jan. 3.

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

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

“Five Artist Invitational,” featuring Louise Herring, Charlie Hubbard, Rebecca Pollard Myers, Emmanuelle Wambach and Marti Yeager, through Jan. 7.

“Figuratively Speaking,” winter membership show highlighting the human form, Jan. 15-Feb. 18; reception: Jan. 15, 5-8 p.m.

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

Artists of the Month: Kaiti Pates & Greg Schnoor

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

Works by Jon Tritt and Mark Allison, through Jan. 9.

“The Burg 2: About Harrisburg, For Harrisburg,” Jan. 14-March 12; receptions: Jan. 15 & Feb. 19, 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

“PCCA’s First Juried Exhibition,” showcasing original artwork in a variety of media and offering visitors the chance to vote for People’s Choice, through Jan. 22.

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

“Art in the Mind of Dyslexia,” a solo exhibition featuring the works of Brent Leopold, through Jan. 29.

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 soldiers, through the display of stories, images and artifacts, Jan. 21-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, Jan. 8-June 18; reception: Jan. 8, 6:30 p.m.

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

“Artisan Marketplace of Perry County,” featuring a holiday shopping display of locally made fine art and handcrafted gifts by emerging and professional artists, through Jan. 2.

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

“Prints from Poland,” Jan. 15-Feb. 12; reception: Jan. 21, 5:30-6 p.m.

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

“A Fondness for Birds: Pennsylvania’s Alexander Wilson,” featuring bird prints and first-edition volumes of the 200-year-old “American Ornithology” series by Alexander Wilson, through Jan. 3.

“Pennsylvania Modern, A Juried Photography Exhibition of Midcentury Modern Architecture,” honoring iconic and modern architecture, through Feb. 2016.

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

“Towards A New/Old Architecture,” an exhibition exploring modern architecture, through Jan. 17.

“Les Diners de Gala by Salvador Dali,” featuring artwork from Dali’s cookbook, through Feb. 2016.

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

“As We See Ourselves,” an exhibition of portraits of artists by artists, through Jan. 8.

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

“Photography Contest Display,” exhibition of photographs entered in the Friends of Wildwood’s annual contest, through Jan. 17; awards ceremony: Jan. 10, 1-3 p.m.

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

Works by Christina Heintzelman, through Jan. 13

Works by Susan Getty, through Feb. 13

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

“smoke.grind.paint,” works by Todd Williams, through Jan. 14.

“On the Record,” works by Sarah Fog, Jan. 15-Feb. 18.

Read, Make, Learn

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

Jan. 7: “Soups, Stews & Chili,” 6-9 p.m.
Jan. 22: “Breakfast and Brunch,” 6:30-9:30 p.m.
Jan. 28: “Wings, Sauces, Tailgate Party and Beer Pairing,” 6-9 p.m.

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

Jan. 5: Curl Up With the Classics—“Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland,” 1 p.m.
Jan. 8, 22: Indie Film Friday
Jan. 9, 16: “Getting Started with Knitting,” 1 p.m.
Jan. 13: Adventure Crafts, 4:30 p.m.
Jan. 18: Fredricksen Writes, 6:45 p.m.
Jan. 19: Fredricksen Reads, 7 p.m.
Jan. 24: “LEGO Challenge,” 2 p.m.
Jan. 26: “Fred Rogers: The Man Behind the Legacy,” 7 p.m.

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

Jan. 4-March 6: Improv Level 1, 7 p.m., offered on Sundays or Mondays
Jan. 7-Feb. 25: Improv Level 2, 7 p.m.
Jan. 9: Introduction to Sketch Writing, 2 p.m.
Jan. 15: Free Kids Improv Class, 6 p.m.
Jan. 15: Free Adult Improv Class, 7 p.m.

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

Jan. 16: Fermentation Workshop
Jan. 18: Certificate Training Program

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

Jan. 1: Little Elves Workshop, 11 a.m.-3 p.m.
Jan. 1: New Year’s Scavenger Hunt, 9 a.m.-5 p.m.
Jan. 1-31: Chocolate Lab Classes

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

Jan. 5: Women’s Group, 7 p.m.
Jan. 3, 10, 17, 24, 31: Common Roads Young Adults, 3 p.m.
Jan. 6, 13, 20, 27: Common Roads Youth, 6 p.m.
Jan. 2, 9, 16, 23, 30: Weekly Meditation Practice, 11 a.m.
Jan. 3, 10, 17, 24, 31: Alcoholics Anonymous, 12 p.m.
Jan. 14: Aging with Pride Lunchtime Discussion, 12 p.m.

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

Jan. 1, 8, 22, 29: Nathaniel Gadsden’s Spoken Word Café, 7 p.m.
Jan. 2: Coloring Pages for Little Scholars, 11 a.m.
Jan. 2: Good News Café, 6 p.m.
Jan. 5: Sci-Fi Writer’s Group, 7 p.m.
Jan. 6, 13, 20, 27: Midtown Chess Club, 11 a.m.
Jan. 7, 14, 21, 28: Almost Uptown Poetry Cartel, 7 p.m.
Jan. 9: GO STEAM!, 11 a.m.
Jan. 10, 24: TED Talks, 1 p.m.
Jan. 12: Dauphin County Young Democrats Meeting, 7 p.m.
Jan. 12, 26: Meet-Up, 9 a.m.
Jan. 14, 21: Camp Curtin Toastmasters, 6:30 p.m.
Jan. 15: Coffee Tasting with Café Staff, 12 p.m.
Jan. 15: Tea Tasting w/Café Staff, 2 p.m.
Jan. 16: Coffee & Critique—Designer Workshop, 8:30 a.m.
Jan. 17: Midtown Writer’s Group, 1 p.m.
Jan. 17: LGBT Book Club, 5 p.m.
Jan. 20: Sci Fi & Fantasy Book Club, 7 p.m.
Jan. 23: Art with Alethia, 11 a.m.
Jan. 25: Feminism Book Club, 7 p.m.
Jan. 26: Friends of Midtown Safety Committee, 6:30 p.m.

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

Jan. 5: Get to Know Your Sewing Machine, 6-8 p.m.
Jan. 6: Machine Sewing Basics, 5:30-8:30 p.m.
Jan. 13: Learn to Knit, 6-8 p.m.
Jan. 14: Knitting—Stranded Colorwork, 5:30-8:30 p.m.
Jan. 21: Enameled Earrings, 5:30-8:30 p.m.

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

Jan. 9, 16, 23, 30: Saturday Morning Art Club
Jan. 16, 23, 30: Young Artist Camp
Jan. 17: Selby Doughty “Dali Lecture”

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

Jan. 2: “Cabin Fever Walk,” 1-2:30 p.m.
Jan. 5: “Osprey in Pennsylvania,” 7-8:30 p.m.
Jan. 12-15: “Farm Show Week Walks,” 2-3 p.m.
Jan. 16: “Life Cycle of the Luna Moth,” 10-11 a.m.
Jan. 19: “Cougars of Eastern U.S.,” 7-8:30 p.m.
Jan. 23: “Let’s Go Tracking,” 10-11:30 a.m.
Jan. 24: Meet a Naturalist: “Animals of Wildwood,” 1-2:30 p.m.
Jan. 27: Preschool Storytime: “Winter at Wildwood,” 10-10:45 a.m.

Live Music Around Harrisburg

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

Jan. 21: Donny Osmond
Jan. 24: Jennifer Nettles

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

Jan. 2: The John Kadlecik Band
Jan. 9: Mountain Ride

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

Jan. 2, 16: Chris Emkey
Jan. 5: Daniel Sheehan
Jan. 6: Christine Purcell
Jan. 7, 10, 24, 28: Anthony Haubert
Jan. 8, 26, 29: Noel Gevers
Jan. 9, 22: Ted Ansel
Jan. 12: Maria Battista
Jan. 14, 21: Jessica Perla
Jan. 15, 23: Roy Lefever
Jan. 19, 30: Corinna Joy
Jan. 20: Deborah Anderson

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

Jan. 2: Medusas Disco, The Stonewall, Vessels
Jan. 11: Trivium
Jan. 16: Box of Rain, Grateful Dead Tribute
Jan. 20: Holy Holy
Jan. 24: Queensryche

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

Jan. 2: Kirk Wise
Jan. 3: Shelba Purtle
Jan. 8: Antonio Andrade
Jan. 9: Doug Morris
Jan. 10: Carly Clark
Jan. 15: Charlie Fry
Jan. 16: Paul Zavinsky
Jan. 17: Shawan & the Wonton
Jan. 22: Tyler Michael Law
Jan. 23: Maria Wilson
Jan. 24: Coco & The Bug
Jan. 29: Kevin Kline
Jan. 30: Josh Krevsky
Jan. 31: Suzi Brown

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

Jan. 1: First Friday w/Vetour Productions
Jan. 9: Andromeda
Jan. 15: American Hollar
Jan. 16: Fink’s Constant
Jan. 21: Jane Lee Hooker
Jan. 22: The Bo Deadlys w/Oaf & Tuff Sunshine
Jan. 23: Up Pops the Devil w/Tony Ryder & True West
Jan. 23: Weekender, Suburban Living
Jan. 29: Matt Otis & the Sound
Jan. 30: Hip Pocket
Every Tuesday: Open Mic

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

Jan. 16-17: Mozart, Glazunov, Elgar
Jan. 30-31: Disney in Concert

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

Jan. 8: Stephen Lee & Evy Zee
Jan. 15: Ellyot Ray
Jan. 29: Tyler Michael Law & Jesse Barki

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

Jan. 30: Three Dog Night

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

Jan. 14: Band of the Royal Marines

Market Square Concerts
marketsquareconcerts.org

Jan. 23: Enso Quartet

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

Jan. 15: Chris Emkey

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

Jan. 20: Lower Dens
Jan. 23: Mountain Ride

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

Jan. 6: Acoustic Stew Open Jam
Jan. 7, 14, 21, 28: Open Electric Jam
Jan. 13: Blue Elephant Open Jam
Jan. 29: The People’s Open Jam w/Shawan & The Wonton

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

Jan. 2: Visitors Duo
Jan. 8: Music thru Science Lite
Jan. 9: Song Smith
Jan. 15: Houston Baker
Jan. 16: A Perfect Storm Duo
Jan. 22: Mitch Gregory
Jan. 23: Silver City Rodeo
Jan. 29: Maria Wilson
Jan. 30: Up Pops the Devil

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

Jan. 15: Band of the Royal Marines
Jan. 16: The Seldom Scene
Jan. 23: York Symphony Orchestra

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

Jan. 9: Erica Everest
Jan. 16: Margy Finnegan
Jan. 30: Scott Peoples

Susquehanna Folk Music Society
sfmsfolk.org

Jan. 10: January Jam Session
Jan. 10: Yves Lambert Trio
Jan. 24: Don Flemons

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

Jan. 22: “Music in the Round: Pictures at an Exhibition”

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

Jan. 22: Southside Johnny & The Asbury Jukes
Jan. 23: Enso Quartet (Market Square Concerts)

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

Jan. 1: Indian Summer Jars
Jan. 8: Todd Burd
Jan. 14: Shawan and the Wonton
Jan. 22: Condition Oakland
Jan. 29: Canyon

The Stage Door

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

Jan. 16: “Elvis Birthday Bash”
Jan. 17: “Elvis Gospel Show”
Jan. 18 & 19: “Dancing with the Stars Live!”
Jan. 20: “Saturday Night Fever”

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

Jan. 22-24: “[title of show]”

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

Jan. 14-Feb. 14: Smokey Joe’s Café

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

Jan. 13-Jan. 30: “Sleeping Beauty”
Jan. 23-Feb. 7: “Red Velvet”

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

Jan. 2: Dustin Diamond
Jan. 8, 9: Paul Hooper
Jan. 15, 16: Brad Trackman w/Ben Jones
Jan. 22, 23: Rich Vos
Jan. 29, 30: Coleman Green

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

Jan. 8, 15, 22, 29: Harold Hour
Jan. 9: “The Magic of Negro and Other Blackness”
Jan. 9: “Pillow Talk”
Every Saturday: Free Improv Mixer
Every Sunday: Open Mic

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

Jan. 10: 2nd Sunday Standup w/Shane Gillis

Hershey Area Playhouse
830 Cherry Dr., Hershey
717-533-8525; hersheyareaplayhouse.com

Jan. 16: Cabaret Night

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

Jan. 15-17: Sesame Street Live, “Let’s Dance”
Jan. 19: “Buddy: The Buddy Holly Story”
Jan. 26-31: “Cinderella”

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

Jan. 22: Writer’s Night/Spoken Word

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

Jan. 29, 30: “Five Women Wearing the Same Dress”

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

Jan. 15: Comedy Night

Open Stage of Harrisburg
223 Walnut St., Harrisburg
717-732-OPEN; openstagehbg.com

Jan. 15, 16: Court Street Cabaret

Theatre Harrisburg
513 Hurlock St., Harrisburg
717-232-5501;theatreharrisburg.com

Jan. 8-17: “The Laramie Project”

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

Jan. 24: Evita Colon’s “Speak to My Soul”
Jan. 29: Nai Ni Chen Dance Company
Jan. 30: Dar He: Story of Emmett Till

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

Jan. 29-31: “Sex Please, We’re 60”

Harrisburg Man Accused of Aiding ISIS Pleads Not Guilty

December 23, 2015 | by Paul Barker

A Harrisburg man pled not guilty on Wednesday to charges of providing material support to the terrorist organization the Islamic State, the day after a federal grand jury in Scranton approved the criminal complaint against him.

Jalil Ibn Ameer Aziz, 19, faces two counts for allegedly aiding the Islamic State, also known as ISIS or ISIL, primarily through the use of dozens of Twitter accounts and other digital media over a one-and-a-half-year period beginning in July 2014.

The charges carry a combined maximum penalty of 40 years in prison, $500,000 in fines and three years of supervised release at the end of any prison term.

Aziz, appearing for the second time before Chief Magistrate Judge Martin C. Carlson of the Pennsylvania Middle District, wore a white-and-orange jumpsuit and black flip-flops. As he entered the courtroom he exchanged a brief glance with family members, giving a slight smile before being directed to sit with his attorneys.

He told the judge he understood the charges against him and accepted the assistance of the two public defenders, Lori Ulrich and Heidi Freese, assigned to him.

Wednesday’s court appearance was brief, consisting of Aziz’s arraignment and a hearing on his detention until trial. Advocating for Aziz’s detention, U.S. Attorney Daryl F. Bloom told the court the state’s evidence was “extremely strong,” saying the government’s case was supported by Aziz’s own words.

Aziz’s attorneys did not oppose his detention Wednesday, but they asked the court for permission to revisit the matter in the future. Ulrich challenged the state’s case by saying Aziz was a young man with no criminal history who was advocating for a cause as an individual, not providing material support to terrorists.

Bloom also said Aziz posed a flight risk, pointing to a desire he expressed online of traveling to the Islamic State and alleging he had aided others trying to do so. Ulrich countered that Aziz had no passport and no money and posed no risk of fleeing.

The government alleges Aziz used at least 57 Twitter accounts to disseminate Islamic State propaganda and that he posted a link to information with the names and addresses of 100 members of the U.S. military, calling for violence against them.

The criminal complaint claims he used social media “to spread ISIL propaganda and to seek support for the terrorist group” and conspired with others to send travelers to Syria to “become ISIL fighters.”

It also claims Aziz may have been planning an attack in the U.S., after a November search of his home produced what Bloom called a “go-bag” containing high-capacity weapons magazines, ammunition, a modified knife, a thumb drive, a head wrap and various over-the-counter medications.

Aziz’s attorneys challenged the state’s characterization of those materials Wednesday, saying the container was not a “go-bag” but a standard backpack and that it was not illegal for Aziz to possess any of the items inside.

Aziz also had no gun that could fire the ammunition in the bag, they said.

Carlson, in ordering Aziz’s detention, said he agreed that the state’s case was strong and noted that a grand jury had found the evidence sufficient to return an indictment. He set jury selection for Aziz’s trial for Feb. 2 at 9:30 a.m.

This Week in Harrisburg: Dec. 21-Jan. 1

December 21, 2015 | by Admin

This Week (actually, This Fortnight) in Harrisburg:

Not a lot of government meetings during Christmas (aside from a zoning board hearing tonight, see below). But here are some useful items for market shopping, parking, and champagne-popping over the next several days. We’re including next week to provide information about the city’s New Year’s Eve festivities. Happy holidays!

Monday, Dec. 21

Harrisburg Zoning Hearing Board Meeting, 6 p.m – 8 p.m.
City Hall, 10 N. 2nd Street, Room 213 (Public Safety Auditorium)

The zoning hearing board has a rather full agenda, including an appeal by John Brinjac to continue the use of a private commercial parking lot at 115 N. 2nd Street. You can view the agenda here.

Broad Street Market Holiday Hours

Christmas Week
Tuesday 12/22: OPEN 7 a.m.-6 p.m.
Wednesday 12/23: OPEN 7 a.m.-6 p.m.
Thursday 12/24: OPEN 7 a.m.-3 p.m.
Friday 12/25: CLOSED
Saturday 12/26: CLOSED

New Year’s Week
Wednesday 12/30: OPEN 7 a.m.-6 p.m.
Thursday 12/31: OPEN 7 a.m.-3 p.m.
Friday 1/1: CLOSED
Saturday 1/2: OPEN 7 a.m.-4 p.m.

Holiday Parking in the City

Standard Parking has announced free street parking for Christmas Eve (Thursday, Dec. 24), Christmas Day (Friday, Dec. 25) and New Year’s Day (Friday, Jan. 1). Drivers will not need to feed meters on those days, though garage rates will still be in effect.

New Year’s Eve Festivites

Enjoy activities in and around City Hall in downtown Harrisburg and watch the strawberry drop at midnight from the Hilton Harrisburg. Festivities start at 9 p.m.

TheBurg Podcast, Dec. 18, 2015

December 18, 2015 | by Admin

Welcome to TheBurg Podcast, a weekly roundup of news in and around Harrisburg.

To listen to this week’s episode, click here.

Dec. 18, 2015: This week, Larry and Paul talk about the vote to approve the Papenfuse administration’s 2016 budget, an arrest of a suspect in Midtown on terrorism charges, a farewell to departing City Council members and other very Harrisburg things.

Special thanks to Paul Cooley, who wrote our theme music. Check out his podcast, the PRC Show, on SoundCloud or in the iTunes store.

You can now subscribe to TheBurg podcast in iTunes!

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