Community Corner: Notable Events in December

November 30, 2015 | by Burg Editor

December Community Corner

Eaken Trio Concert
Dec. 1: Habitat for Humanity of the Greater Harrisburg Area is hosting the 26th annual “Eaken Trio Home for the Holidays,” with a performance by Taylor Perry, at Pollock Performing Arts Center, 340 N. 21^st St., Camp Hill, 7 to 10 p.m. For more information, visit harrisburghabitat.org.

55+ Face2Face
Dec. 1 & 15: Every first and third Tuesday of the month, meet at Appalachian Brewing Company, 3721 Market St., Camp Hill, to meet new people and make new friends, 7 to 9 p.m. For more information, call 717-920-2739.

Paint Night
Dec. 2: YWCA Carlisle hosts a painting night, with wine and hors d’oeuvres, starting at 6:30 p.m. The cost is $50 per person, with art supplies and a souvenir painting apron included. All ages are welcome; must be 21 and older to drink wine. Make reservations by visiting ywcacarlisle.org or calling 717-243-3818.

Purse Auction
Dec. 3: Join the YWCA Greater Harrisburg, 1101 Market St., for an evening of music, wine, food and fashion, during “The Pursuit of Justice Purse Auction,” 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. The event includes a live and silent auction of handbags and accessories and a drawing for a premier accessory item. All proceeds go to the YWCA Greater Harrisburg Domestic Violence Legal Center. For information, visit ywcahbg.org.

Elegant Progressions
Dec. 3 to 4: Historic Harrisburg Association and Kidney Foundation of Central Pennsylvania will host its 24th annual “Elegant Progressions” black-tie progressive dinner at four historic mansions along Front Street. Guests can enjoy chauffeured service to the mansions for hors d’oeuvres and aperitifs, a formal dinner and a dessert buffet. Call 717-233-4646 or visit elegantprogressions.org.

An ‘80s Christmas
Dec. 4 to 13: The Harrisburg Gay Men’s Chorus presents “Just Say Yes to An ‘80s Christmas!” the first and second Fridays and Saturdays in December at four different locations in central Pennsylvania. Bring your big hair, shoulder pads and best bright red dress. Tickets are $15 and are available at the door and online. Visit harrisburggaymenschorus.org for concert times and locations.

Sugar Plum 5K
Dec. 5: Wear your holiday-themed costume for the 2nd Annual Sugar Plum Run 5K and 1 Mile Fun Run. The race starts at 11 a.m. in the parking lot of the Coffee Beanery, 1215 Research Blvd., Hummelstown. Proceeds go to the Children’s Miracle Network to benefit the Penn State Hershey Medical Center Children’s Hospital. For more, visit www.sugarplumrun.com.

Christmas Hour Tour
Dec. 5: The Newport Revitalization and Preservation Society will host its annual Newport Christmas Hour Tour from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., highlighting five private homes and four landmarks in Newport. Tickets are $15 and are available in advance at various Newport locations and on the day of the tour at the Newport Senior Center, 2 N. 2nd St. For more information, visit nrps.pa.net.

Holiday Music
Dec. 5: Enjoy sounds of the holiday season by Ray Holland on the mountain dulcimer at East Shore Area Library, 4501 Ethel St., at 2 p.m. Learn the origins of the song, sing along with Holland and request some of your holiday favorites. For more information, visit dcls.org or call 717-652-9380.

Natural Ornaments
Dec. 6 & 20: Wildwood Park invites children and their parents to craft holiday ornaments using natural materials, 1 to 3 p.m. All materials will be supplied. Cost is $5 per participant; pre-registration is not required. For more details, visit wildwoodlake.org.

Enola Train Yards
Dec. 8: Harrisburg Chapter of the National Railway Historical Society will host Jim Leonard, a director of the East Pennsboro Historical Society, for a presentation on “Enola Train Yards in the 20th Century,” 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.

Alice in Wonderland
Dec. 8: Fredricksen Library will host a 150^th anniversary celebration for Lewis Carroll’s “Alice in Wonderland” at 7 p.m., with Alisa Dupuy (personified as Alice) sharing the facts and the myths of Lewis Carroll’s life. For more information, visit fredricksenlibrary.org.

Owls Presentation
Dec. 9: Ned Smith Center for Nature and Art, Millersburg, will host “Owls: Soul of the Night,” a presentation led by Scott Weidensaul, author of the “Peterson Reference Guide to Owls of North America and the Caribbean,” starting at 7 p.m. Pre-registration is suggested. For more details, visit nedsmithcenter.org.

Middle East Talk
Dec. 10: Foreign Policy Association of Harrisburg will host Larry P. Goodson, professor of Middle East studies, at the U.S. Army War College, in a free talk on “Middle East History and Solutions” at 7:30 p.m. at the Radisson Hotel Harrisburg, Camp Hill. Reception is at 5:30 p.m. with dinner at 6:30 p.m. Cost is $27 or $24 for FPA members; reservation deadline is Dec. 7. For more, visit fpa-harrisburg.org.

Canadian Brass Concert
Dec. 10: Music at Gretna presents “Christmas with Canadian Brass” at Leffler Chapel & Performance Center, 1 Alpha Dr., Elizabethtown, 7:30 p.m. For more information, visit gretnamusic.org.

Foreign Film Friday
Dec. 11: Join Fredricksen Library for “8 Women,” a French dark comedy set at a family holiday gathering in an isolated mansion. When the patriarch is murdered, the eight women in attendance are all suspects. Two showings are at 2 and 7 p.m. Rated R. Visit fredricksenlibrary.org for more details.

Shopping Night Out
Dec. 11: Finish your holiday shopping during Second on 2nd at PCCA Gallery, One S. 2^nd St., Newport, where you can have local artwork and handcrafted gifts wrapped while enjoying refreshments, a beer tasting and live music, 5 to 8 p.m.Donations are appreciated for gift wrapping. Visit perrycountyarts.org.

Free Holiday Concert
Dec. 11 to 13: The Cumberland Singers presents “Merry Little Christmas” concert, featuring a mix of sacred and secular holiday music, including Biebl’s “Ave Maria,” “Jazzy Jingle Bells” and “The Twelve Days of Christmas.” For concert times and locations, visit cumberlandsingers.org.

Local Lunch
Dec. 12: Join Friends of Midtown at their monthly community lunch, which will be held at the Broad Street Market, N. 3^rd and Verbeke streets, Harrisburg, 12 to 2 p.m. Contact [email protected] or visit friendsofmidtown.org.

Holiday Dance Show
Dec. 12: Studio ’91 Dance Studio presents “Twas the Night Before Christmas” at Cumberland Valley High School Performing Arts Center, 6746 Carlisle Pike, Mechanicsburg, with performances at 1 and 6 p.m. For more, visit studio91.com or call 717-691-5567.

Concert and Christmas Tea
Dec. 12: The St. Stephen’s Cathedral Choir and Pine Street Presbyterian Church Choir will perform seasonal music spanning three centuries, accompanied by organ and brass. The free multimedia concert will be held at St. Stephen’s Episcopal Cathedral, 221 N. Front St., Harrisburg at 4 p.m. and will be followed by a Christmas tea. For more, call 717-236-4059 or email [email protected].

Santa in Midtown
Dec. 13: Take pictures with Santa, enjoy free cookies and hot cocoa then take the family on a tour of the Pennsylvania National Fire Museum, 1840 N. 4^th St., Harrisburg. The 1 to 4 p.m. event at the museum is presented by Friends of Midtown. For more information, visit friendsofmidtown.org or the Santa in Midtown Facebook page.

Candlelight Hour Tour
Dec. 13: Historic Harrisburg will host its 42nd annual Candlelight House Tour, “Grand Impressions: A Tour of Front Street,” 1 to 6 p.m. Tickets are $20 in advance or $25 on the day of the tour. For more information, visit historicharrisburg.com and see the story in TheBurg.

Christmas at the Mansion
Dec. 13: Join The Historical Society of Dauphin County for “Christmas at the Mansion and Holiday Market” at Harris-Cameron Mansion, 219 S. Front St., 1 to 6 p.m. Tour the decorated mansion, view an exhibit of antique toys, visit with Santa, and shop a holiday market, featuring local artists. Admission is a $5 suggested donation; admission is free for children, Society members and Candlelight House Tour ticketholders. More details are at dauphincountyhistory.org.

Ribbon-Cutting

Dec. 15: Brightwood Career Institute in Harrisburg, formerly known as Kaplan Career Institute, will host an open house for members of the business community at its campus located at 5650 Derry St. Guests can meet faculty and staff and enjoy tours of the campus, hors d’oeuvres and libations, while enjoying a ribbon cutting ceremony led by the Harrisburg Regional Chamber & Capital Region Economic Development Corporation (CREDC). RSVP by emailing [email protected] or calling 717.564.4112.

Deck the Halls
Dec. 15: The Historical Society of Dauphin County will host its 21^st annual “Deck the Halls” fundraiser at Harris-Cameron Mansion, 219 S. Front St., 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Tickets are $90, $125 and $250 and include wine and beer from the Vineyard and Brewery at Hershey, heavy hors d’oeuvres and desserts. Contact 717-233-3462 or [email protected] to RSVP.

Business After Hours
Dec. 17: Mingle with business professionals at this free networking event sponsored by the Harrisburg Regional Chamber and CREDC. This month, the event takes place at The State Museum of Pennsylvania, 300 North St., Harrisburg, 5 to 7 p.m. Visit harrisburgregionalchamber.org.

3rd in The Burg
Dec. 18: 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.

Candlelight Concert
Dec. 18 to 20: Susquehanna Chorale Presents “A Candlelight Christmas” in three evening concerts, featuring traditional and contemporary arrangements and carols, as well as classic holiday favorites. Tickets are $20 in advance or $25 at the door; students are $5. For a schedule of performances and locations, visit susquehannachorale.org.

Children’s New Year
Dec. 31: Bring the kids and countdown to noon at the Popcorn Hat Players’ New Year’s Eve party for children. The annual event begins at 10 a.m. at Whitaker Center and includes a performance of “The Princess and the Pea.” Additional details are at www.gamuttheatre.org.

Rock Around the Clock
Dec. 31: The Hershey Story invites kids to its New Year’s celebration “Rock Around the Clock” in the museum’s Grand Lobby and patio (weather permitting), 1 to 3 p.m. Kids can groove to five decades of party music and enjoy bubble-wrap stomps. Free and open to the public. For more information, visit HersheyStory.org or call 717-534-8939.

Hershey New Years
Dec. 31: Fun, food, entertainment and the countdown to midnight highlight the annual New Years celebration in Hershey. The party starts at 9 p.m. at the public square at Chocolate Avenue and Park Boulevard and continues until the Hershey’s Kiss drops at midnight. For all the details, visit hersheynewyears.org.

Harrisburg New Years
Dec. 31: Enjoy activities in and around City Hall in downtown Harrisburg and watch the strawberry drop at midnight from the Hilton Harrisburg. Check out all the details at the city’s website, harrisburgpa.gov.

Winter Wining: When is giving even better than receiving? When holiday shopping means a trip to a winery.

November 30, 2015 | by Don Helin

Wine-lovers like nothing better than unwrapping that oblong box under the tree.

Fortunately, shopping for wine can be as much fun (maybe more) as being on the receiving end. Many wineries in the mountains and farmland northwest of Harrisburg are holding special events during December to draw you in and reward you for your travel.

Below is a look at five wineries that will entertain you while teasing your palette—two in Perry County, one in Juniata County, one in Mifflin County and one in upper Dauphin—all within an easy drive of Harrisburg.

Winery at Hunters Valley

Last April, veteran vintners Mike and Carol Williams purchased the Winery at Hunters Valley, located just outside Liverpool in Perry County and offering magnificent views of the Susquehanna River.

Therefore, the winery is now part of the Winery at Wilcox family, one of the state’s largest producers.

I asked Jamie Williams, company vice president, about his favorite wines from Hunters Valley.

“That’s like asking me to choose my favorite child,” he said. “But all joking aside, my favorites change with each vintage and each day. This year, I’m particularly proud of our Liverpool Ruby Red, which is a port-style fortified wine. I am also very fond of this year’s dry Riesling.”

This month, the winery will host a number of holiday events, including “A Heartland Christmas,” sponsored by the Susquehanna Heartland Wine Trail. Patrons of the wine trail will receive a grapevine wreath, which they can decorate with homemade ornaments found at each of the trail member wineries. Additionally, the Winery at Hunters Valley will feature live music and a food truck on alternating Saturday afternoons in the party pavilion.

“Along with our wine, we sell many wine-related gifts,” Williams said.

Olivero’s Vineyard & Winery

Olivero’s Vineyard is a family-owned winery adjacent to a 124-year-old farmhouse located just outside of McAlisterville. The vineyard and winery are co-owned by Bill Dressler, Matthew and Sarah Dressler, and Megan and Bill Yurkovic.

“Bill Dressler and his wife, Dottie, purchased the farm in 1976,” explained Bill Yurkovic. “Dottie’s love of wine and her dream of turning the farm into a vineyard grew as she and Bill raised their children. Sadly, Dottie passed away in 2009 and never had a chance to see her dream become a reality.”

By 2012, Dottie’s dream started to take shape, one grape trellis at a time. Olivero’s is named in honor of Dottie’s Italian immigrant father, Olivero Ricci, a perfect tribute to honor her memory.

Visiting Olivero’s, you will find breathtaking views of the rolling hills and nearby mountains. Don’t forget to say hello to Buck and Vino, the quarter horses grazing in the adjacent pasture.

The winery opened in 2014 in a rural area of Juniata County where marketing can be a challenge. However, they’re proud that, through a team effort, they have more than tripled production in the past year.

I asked Yurkovic about his favorite wines. “We grow Concord and Riesling on the farm,” he replied. “We have a very popular Chardonnay, Riesling and Catawba. Something for every taste.”

Like Hunters Valley, Olivero’s is part of the Susquehanna Heartland Wine Trail, which is sponsoring “A Heartland Christmas” tour for the holidays. The owners are also opening a retail store in the State Street Plaza in Lemoyne.

Bucks Valley Winery and Vineyard

It’s been six months since Mike and Mary Pelino opened their winery.

“Since that time, we’ve had weekly musical entertainment, fundraisers, bridal showers, birthday parties, book clubs, reception dinners and have sold a mountain of pizza, far more than I had expected,” said Mike.

Located just a mile off PA Route 322 in Perry County, the vineyard’s kitchen has become almost as much of an attraction as the wine, serving pizza, meat and cheese trays and artisan breads. Mike recently added a big screen TV for Penn State football games and other events.

Mike’s favorite white wine is the Traminette, which is aromatic and spicy with a peppery finish. His favorite red wine is the Vanilla Fe. It’s a Chambourcin started with French oak, blended with some Merlot and finished with American oak. The grapes for both wines are grown on the farm.

The holiday calendar at Bucks Valley is jam-packed.

“We are planning a wine/food pairing, a wine glass painting party, a wine bottle light making party, and a number of other events,” Mike said.

Armstrong Valley Vineyard & Winery

A decade ago, Jake Gruver and Dean Miller purchased 10 acres and, in 2007, another 90 acres in the Armstrong Valley near Halifax in Dauphin County.

“Our property needed a lot of help, but the buildings had good bones and were salvageable,” Gruver said. “While cleaning up the property, we visited other wineries and found some had tasting rooms and other facilities in their barn, and we realized we could use our barn likewise.”
The winery opened in May 2011 and quickly became a social magnet for local residents, especially after turning the upstairs of the barn into an events center. Today, the winery hosts about 30 weddings a year as well as many smaller events, such as birthday parties, fundraisers and bridal showers.

“I am a dry red guy,” Gruver said. “So, I like our Armstrong Red, a Bordeaux blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc and Merlot. Also, I like our Cabernet Franc by itself. By the way, our semi-dry Chardonnay is pretty good, too.”

December will be a busy month at the winery.

The holiday season opens on Dec. 5 with the Passionettes, a ‘60s-style all-girl band. Then, on three successive Sundays—Dec. 6, 13 and 20—the main house, which is listed as a Patriot Home by the Daughters of the American Revolution, will be opened to the public. It will be decorated for Christmas, and a tour guide will offer details of life back in the 1700s and how those people celebrated Christmas.

The same Sundays will feature “Christmas in the Barn,” in which the barn will be decorated for Christmas, and local vendors will sell handmade items for holiday gifts.

The month of celebration will culminate with a New Year’s Eve Party featuring two bands, food and party favors.

“It’ll be a really good time,” said Gruver. “We’re proud to have created something here in Halifax that, we believe, has helped bring people and business to our community.”

Brookmere Winery & Vineyard Inn

Tucked up against a corner of the village of Belleville along PA Route 655, the Brookmere Winery is located on 38 acres that were granted to the Alexander family from William Penn. The winery itself was established in 1984. After working for the previous owners, Cheryl and Ed Glick purchased it in 2007.

“We’re very proud to be the first winery in Pennsylvania to have a bed and breakfast located next to the winery,” Cheryl said. “James Alexander built the southern mansion-type farmhouse in 1866 as a wedding present to his bride, and it has stayed occupied over the years.

I asked Cheryl about her two favorite wines. After thinking for a moment, she replied, “I think it would have to be the Cabernet Franc, which is a dry red, and the Frog Hollow, which is a sweet blush.”

Because of its location in the middle of the scenic Big Valley area northwest of Lewistown, the Brookmere Winery has evolved into a destination by offering tasty wines, a variety of events and a comfortable bed and breakfast. Wine enthusiasts can sample a selection of red, white, blush and fruit wines amidst the sprawling vineyards.

So, there you have it—five wineries just north of the city where you can pick up a special bottle while having a great time in the process. It sure beats the mall!

GOING THERE

Armstrong Valley Vineyard and Winery: 212 Rutter Rd, Halifax. Visit www.armstrongvalleywinery.com or call 717-896-7700.

Bucks Valley Winery and Vineyards: 333 Meadow Grove Rd, Newport. Visit www.bucksvalleywinery.com or call 717-204-7508.

Olivero’s Vineyard & Winery: 1271 Troyer Road, McAlisterville. Visit www.oliverosvineyards.com or call 717-877-2238.

Brookmere Winery & Vineyard Inn: 5369 PA Route 655, Belleville. Visit www.brookmerewine.com or call 717-935-5380.

Winery at Hunters Valley: 3 Orchard Rd,, Liverpool. Visit www.huntersvalleywines.com or call 717-444-7211.

Don Helin published his first thriller, “Thy Kingdom Come,” in 2009. His novel, “Devil’s Den,” was selected as a finalist in the 2013 Indie Book Awards. His latest thriller, “Secret Assault,” was selected as the best suspense/thriller at the 2015 Indie Book Awards. Contact Don on his website, www.donhelin.com.

First Steps, Next Steps: It’s not good-bye. It’s about what comes next.

November 30, 2015 | by Tara Leo Auchey

When I moved to this city 10 years ago, I had no idea of the path before me.

For me, moving to the city meant moving to a place of energy, vibrancy and diversity, which is precisely what I craved from my very steady and standardized West Shore residence.

I wanted the unpredictable. I wanted chic spots and lively public spaces. I wanted to walk down a busy street and hear the hum of talk and the swift footsteps of intention. Every day, I wanted there to be another option, different people and something else to see.

However, once I lived here, I realized Harrisburg stopped being that type of city a long time ago. It had atrophied to a different kind of place, regressing to its provincial origin in many aspects.

There wasn’t the hustle and bustle of much beyond private corner conversations and political machinations. The broken streets were mostly empty, especially at night. The sense of community was primarily based on longstanding associations and family ties.

For a newbie such as myself, it wasn’t easy to be part of this city except in one particular realm—the realm of information.

In that dimension of Harrisburg city living, the arena was vast and open. Few people treaded there and even fewer took what they knew outside of it. Actual facts, truths and reports were not widespread or mass distributed.

So, I set up a blog and began writing about it.

I started going to community gatherings and government meetings. I talked to people and had conversations. I assembled stories, points-of-view and knowledge. I compiled it all and passed it on.

That’s what I’ve been doing for the better part of the past decade in a variety of ways.

Instead of getting easier, it’s gotten harder. It’s more challenging to synthesize the cacophony of viewpoints. It’s trickier to pass them on and spread the word. The multitude channels of communication are disharmonious. Too many people don’t engage and won’t engage. The distrust present after years of neglect is interwoven into the weakened threads that make up the city whole and attach it to the region.

As such, it’s difficult to navigate this place and establish a united sense of pride and purpose.

I’m not the only one feeling this. The most prominent inquiry I get lately is a frustrated plea of, “How do I get heard and make a difference around here?”

Right now my answer is, “I don’t know,” because, as a new year approaches, I’m asking myself this very question, too.

That path I ventured upon all those years ago has brought me to this moment of contemplation, and, like so much of my time living here, my journey seems to align with the city’s. I’m at a crossroads and, I think, so is Harrisburg.

One of the most liberating aspects of the end of a year and the start of another is the time in between to reflect and refresh.

It’s a chance to adjust the journey.

Which direction do we want to go? What are the options and how do we get to a shared understanding of what this city is? What are the practical and feasible means to do this?

Most significantly, how do more people connect with one another and strengthen the bonds that bring together more aspects and parts of this place?

I don’t think we know the answers to these questions right now. Some people may say that they do, and yes, I hear them loud and clear when they prescriptively talk and talk about what should be done. Yet, I see too little evidence of successful implementation in any collectively effective way.

Of course, if you’ve been reading me here in TheBurg for the last three years I’ve had this column, you know I’ve posed similar questions before. I’ve confessed dismay and called for action. I’ve tried to remind all of us that this is a city, a real city. I’ve discussed the fragmented network. I’ve pointed out Harrisburg’s potential. I’ve encouraged us to work together to reach it.

I’ve valued this opportunity to have a voice here, to be able to ask such questions and highlight the issues and merits of this capital city along the river. Part of switching up the journey, though, is switching up the ways I approach my undertaking of helping Harrisburg thrive. Therefore, this is my last recurring article for this publication.

I’m not going away. You’ll be able to find me in the new year still doing what I started all those years ago when I took my first steps into the city and realized I had to do what I could to make this place better.

I’ll just be doing it in new ways.

Tara Leo Auchey is the creator and editor of today’s the day, Harrisburg. www.todaysthedayhbg.com.

Student Scribes: When Life Gives You Lemons

November 30, 2015 | by Angela Larks

Grocery shopping was never something I enjoyed, but my disdain has intensified in the last 10 months for two reasons: one, my daughter has moved back home after living in Los Angeles four years; and, two, there is a debate over the benefits of choosing organic, non-GMO and antibiotic-free foods.

Before January of 2015, I could whip through the grocery store and be done in less than 45 minutes! Upon entering Giant, I would head left toward the fruits and vegetables. I would quickly select my bananas, oranges, salad fixings, onions and potatoes and move on. When choosing lemons, I would only concern myself with which ones have the better price, the bagged ones or the loose ones. Next I would work my way along the perimeter towards the deli counter. I heard somewhere, probably on TV, that the healthier foods, in general, are situated along the perimeter of the stores while the less healthy and processed foods are up and down the many aisles. At the deli counter, I would always get a pound of American cheese for my husband Mike. He likes cheese in his eggs and grits, and he likes grilled cheese sandwiches. Next, I would make my way over to the seafood counter for shrimp and fish.

I would quickly look to the right as I moved past the forbidden inside aisles, resisting the temptation to go down aisle 3, the cookie aisle. I would find myself going up and down other aisles of Babylon anyway in pursuit of tea bags or pasta or some condiment like relish that I’ll need for making potato salad. I gave up processed foods like Hamburger Helper, instant-flavored potatoes, sugary cereals and Oodles of Noodles a long time ago, too much sodium and carbs. Then I would head toward the cranberry juice, passing over many varieties of sugar-filled drinks, juice from concentrate, blue juice, red juice, juice that claims to be 100-percent juice, Juicy-Juice and many other dye-filled drinks. Even the cranberry juice that I would purchase isn’t 100-percent juice, but I would get it anyway because something in it is supposed to be good for me. Then I would continue to the right of the store to get what I needed from the dairy section: fat-free milk, a few yogurts, butter, and for a treat, Breyers Vanilla Bean ice-cream. I would grab a dozen or two of eggs, a loaf of whole grain wheat bread and I would be done!

Shopping before Ashley’s move back home was painless.

However, now that she’s back, I’m hit with questions like, “Mom, are these lemons organic?” Me: “I don’t know, probably not, why?” Then she goes on a long spiel about why organic is better! Next, she questions the potatoes and the onions: “Mom what about these? You should especially buy organic onions and potatoes!” The conversation continues with a lecture on the top 10 things you should buy organic and a list of things that’s OK to buy non-organic. Then I pull out the meat, Lord help me! “Were these animals treated with antibiotics? Were they grass fed or free range?”

All of these questions have me wondering–what’s the big deal about organic, non-GMO, antibiotic-free and free range? Am I helping myself into an early grave because I eat pesticide-filled fruits and vegetables, genetically modified corn, and meat from animals that are caged and have been injected with antibiotics?

What I’ve learned thus far is that “organic” is more than just about eating foods free of pesticides. It is a lifestyle, a movement, a call-to-action to go back to the traditional way of farming, pre-Industrial Age. Wikipedia has this to say about organic farming:

“While the standards differ worldwide, organic farming in general features cultural, biological, and mechanical practices that foster cycling of resources, promote ecological balance, and conserve biodiversity. Synthetic pesticides and chemical fertilizers are not allowed, although certain approved pesticides may be used. In general, organic foods are also not processed using irradiation, industrial solvents, or synthetic food additives.”

There are non-synthetic pesticides that are allowed to be used; food grown with allowed pesticides is also considered organic. According to the USDA, organic farmers and processors are held to a set of standards that read like this:

Preserve natural resources and biodiversity
Support animal health and welfare
Provide access to the outdoors so that animals can exercise their natural behaviors
Only use approved materials
Do not use genetically modified ingredients
Receive annual onsite inspections
Separate organic food from non-organic food

After reading this, I thought of communes where everyone was “of the earth.” Everything that was consumed was grown or raised by the residents. Natural deodorants would be used, like baking soda; no aluminum-filled deodorants for them. Residents would bathe once a week to conserve water. Even medicinal necessities would be grown organically right on the compound. Clothes would be hand-me-downs and only purchased from thrift stores. Then I started thinking about red Kool-Aid, no thank you! But what does this all really mean? How am I affected by pesticides?

The website for the Environmental Protection Agency says, “The health effects of pesticides depend on the type of pesticide. Some, such as the organophosphates and carbamates, affect the nervous system. Others may irritate the skin or eyes. Some pesticides may be carcinogens. Others may affect the hormone or endocrine system in the body.” There is a link on this site to a human health risk assessment for many pesticides. However, unless you are a chemist, deciphering this material is daunting. Each pesticide is broken down by its chemical components. There are hundreds of chemicals that, when combined, make up any number of pesticides.

Then I wanted to understand how the Environmental Protection Agency was protecting our food. I went to a link on their site, “Setting Tolerances for Pesticide Residues in Foods,” and the opening statement read, “Pesticides are widely used in producing food. These pesticides may remain in small amounts (called residues) in or on fruits, vegetables, grains and other foods. To ensure the safety of the food supply, EPA regulates the amount of each pesticide that may remain in and on foods. This fact sheet briefly describes how EPA sets limits, called tolerances, for pesticide residues in food.” As consumers we should feel safe knowing that the EPA has tested our fruits and vegetables and the residue left behind is safe for consumption, right? Not! But what is one to do?

The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United States (FAO) discusses pesticides toxicity in aquatic systems; the human health effects of pesticides; the ecological effects of pesticides and the natural factors that degrade pesticides. This “organic” thing is snow-balling! There is so much more to know and I’ve not yet begun to look into non-genetically modified foods, or free range and antibiotic-free meats!

I had not had one grape, green or otherwise last summer. I used to go to Sam’s Club regularly and purchase a container of green seedless grapes, but not anymore. Now I look over at them and briefly consider “what if?” I can purchase them and wash them really well or soak them in vinegar and water as suggested by Ashley. She says the vinegar helps break down any pesticides left behind. I look hopelessly for the organic symbol, then I think to myself, if I eat these I’m gonna die! The organic, green, seedless grapes at the Giant are too expensive and come in very small quantities, hence no grapes last summer.

One organic lemon is $1.49. In comparison, I can get a bag of six lemons with residual pesticides for $3.99. I must admit that I’ve spent a small bundle on lemons this year. I really enjoy a cup of hot tea with lemon and honey. I like vodka and cranberry juice with lemon, and my favorite cake to make is a lemon pound cake. The fruit drawer in my refrigerator always holds lemons; they were mostly non-organic, but post-Ashley’s return, all are now organic. I never understood how people could save and re-use teabags. I thought that was so cheap, but now I re-use a slice of lemon. Don’t you dare throw away that organic lemon slice after one use! My love for lemons and lemon flavored foods go back as far as I can remember, because aside from tasting good, lemons, (citrus limon is the scientific name), are good for you. They are high in vitamin C and potassium; some studies show that lemons can reduce the risk of diseases like cancer; and they are anti-microbial. So, since I want to start incorporating organic foods into my diet, lemons are a good choice to begin with.

The mission of the Pennsylvania Certified Organic (PCO) is to “To ensure the integrity of organic products and provide education, inspection, and certification services that meet the needs of our members.” This is great; however, I do wonder just how many farmers claim to be organic but really are not? To qualify as organic the PCO explains that, “All farmland must be free of prohibited materials for at least three years prior to harvest of an organic crop. Prohibited materials include, but are not limited to: chemical herbicides, pesticides, fungicides, fertilizers, sewage sludge and genetically modified organisms.”

I would love to say, “What does it matter, we’re all going to die anyway.” But while I am here I do want to live a good life. Even though I feel like a hamster on a wheel trying to get concrete answers to why I should eat organic or non-GMO, and buy free range and antibiotic-free meats, I will be pro-active and buy organic where my pocketbook dictates. It’s sad to think that eating healthy for some comes down to whether or not one can afford to.

My trips to the grocery store now are painful, and what I used to be able to purchase with $200 has expeditiously dwindled. I spend more time seeking out organic labels; Ashley has also shared with me that the PLU codes on organic fruits and vegetable have five digits. I verified this by going to a site called Life Hacker:

Organic produce has a 5-digit PLU number that begins with the number 9.
Conventional produce has a 4-digit PLU number that begins with the number 4.
Genetically modified (GMO) produce has a 5-digit PLU number that begins with the number 8.

Now, shopping for lemons looks like this: I pick up the larger, less-expensive, four-digit coded lemon and for a moment contemplate buying it. Then I remember the effects of some pesticides or residual toxins that may have entered the lemon and put the cheap thing down. I opt for the $1.49 smaller one, checking first to make sure it bears a five-digit code, and then I move on to the next fruit or vegetable. I try to remember if the next item is on the approved “OK to buy non-organic” list.

I now purchase organic eggs, milk, herbs and spices, vinegar, sometimes honey, chicken that is grass-feed and free range, organic butter, organic tea and non-genetically modified corn. Fortunately for me, I have options. I’m in a position to be able to make informed decisions about the foods that I purchase for my family.

Not everyone has that luxury.

Angela Larks is a senior communications major at Penn State Harrisburg.

Classics for Christmas: Traditional holiday films unwrapped this month.

November 30, 2015 | by Sammi Leigh Melville

There is something decidedly old about the holiday season.

People will start frothing at the mouth at the slightest opportunity to discuss the holiday traditions that they partake in, and everyone’s favorite festive, classic films are usually nestled amongst them. When December rolls around, whispers of classic holiday films start filling the crisp winter air.

And when I say “classic holiday films,” I mean Christmas films.

It unfortunately appears that those who celebrate other holidays are not quite as prolific in their filmmaking. Sadly, Hanukkah films amount to little more than “Eight Crazy Nights” (I am so sorry, Jewish cinephiles). Kwanzaa gets even less. Other than a little-known documentary called “The Black Candle,” Kwanzaa is only casually mentioned in films. And I personally hold out hope every year for a Festivus-themed movie.

But I digress…let’s go back to the key word “classic.”

Some more modern-day holiday films have snuck past the veterans in recent years, like “Elf” (2003) or “The Polar Express” (2004), but, even then, there haven’t been any prizewinners.

Most holiday films flop, or, at best, are regarded as mediocre. Any offshoot of the Christmas classic that dares to switch gears and, say, present an imperfect Christmas story or, as previously mentioned, serve as an alternative to Christmas, at best is labeled as “cute” and gets shuffled into the mix, always just past the likes of “It’s a Wonderful Life,” “White Christmas,” “Miracle on 34th Street,” “Holiday Inn,” “A Christmas Story”… the classics.

Why? Because we like tradition.

But that doesn’t cheapen the classics. While we here at Midtown Cinema wait for a truly diverse option of holiday films, we will continue to show those that we have readily available to us—those that have become our tradition. Every year, we play “It’s a Wonderful Life” a number of times, as well as “The Bishop’s Wife” and “White Christmas.” This year, we will also be playing “A Christmas Story” and “National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation.” And you can’t forget the laugh-out-loud tradition “Santa Claus Conquers The Martians,” this time heralded (i.e. mocked) by the Down in Front! crew.

Each year, our traditions have the opportunity to grow and encompass those who celebrate differently. I, for one, will always have an open ear to other holiday traditions. So, maybe this month, we fall back on a classic Christmas. But, with a little dialogue and a lot of hope for Hollywood, maybe next year Santa won’t be the only one gracing our screens.

SPECIAL EVENTS

Midnight Matinee
“Gremlins”
Saturday, Dec. 5, 11:55 p.m.

Classic Film Series
“It’s A Wonderful Life”
Sunday, Dec. 6, 7 p.m.
Sunday, Dec. 20, 4 p.m.
Thursday, Dec. 24, 7 p.m.

“The Bishop’s Wife”
Sunday, Dec. 13, 6 p.m.
Sunday, Dec. 23, 7 p.m.

“White Christmas”
Saturday, Dec. 19, 7 p.m.
Monday, Dec. 21, 7 p.m.
Friday, Dec. 25, 7 p.m.

Down in Front!
“Santa Claus Conquers The Martians”
Friday, Dec. 11, 9:30 p.m.

3^rd in the Burg! $3 Movie
“National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation”
Friday, Dec. 18, 9:30 p.m.

Faulkner-Honda Family Film Series
“A Christmas Story”
Saturday, Dec. 19, 12 p.m.
Sunday, Dec. 20, 2 p.m.

Text Neck Check: Smart phones can be a real pain in the neck.

November 30, 2015 | by Christina J. Persson

We love texting.

The average American sends between 250 and 2,000 texts per month—that’s nearly 70 messages a day at the high end of the range, says Dublin-based Experian, a leading credit reporting and research company.

Even when not reading or sending texts, you may still look down at your phone for other reasons. According to the Pew Research Center, 64 percent of American adults own smartphones, using the devices to do everything from online banking to applying for jobs.

All this looking down is bad news for your neck, says Dr. William Beutler, medical director of the PinnacleHealth Spine Institute.

“Your head weighs between 10 and 11 pounds, so when you bend your neck forward and down, you’re increasing the weight on the cervical spine—sometimes up to 60 pounds of pressure,” he said. “The cervical spine consists of the vertebrae under the skull, and they are thin, delicate bones.”

The range of problems that develop based on chronic smartphone overuse often is called text neck.

Text neck can result in pain in the neck and upper shoulders, headaches and a change in the curve of the neck, said Beutler. Like other overuse issues such as tennis elbow or runner’s knee, it can also lead to problems that can get worse over time, he said, including:

Herniated and bulging discs
Arthritis
Muscle strain
Pinched nerves

Over the long term, poor posture can cause permanent changes and damage to the cervical spine.

“People are surprised that poor posture can be a problem, and if prolonged, it can lead to long-term issues,” says Michael L. Fernandez, assistant medical director of the PinnacleHealth Spine Institute.

“People think that neck pain and spine problems only happen to adults,” added Beutler. “But with people starting smartphone use at early ages, combined with a significant amount of time dedicated to smartphone use each day, it’s no wonder we’re seeing younger patients with complaints, including teenagers.”

Like many health problems, text neck is preventable.

“It’s hard for some people, but cutting back on using your phone is the best thing you can do. If you need to do extensive Web surfing, a smartphone is not the best place to do it,” said Beutler. “But if you must, hold the phone higher, close to eye level.”

Fernandez agrees that face height is the better option over angling your neck to look at the screen.

“Awareness is a big part of the battle,” said Fernandez. “Don’t adopt bad postures when using your phone, laptop or computer. Make sure you hold your smartphone properly and that your workspace and computer area are ergonomic.”

According to Beutler, taking frequent breaks can help too. Walking away from the phone and stretching can relieve discomfort.

You can also perform these exercises to relieve tension in the neck and shoulders, he said:

Roll your head gently from side to side.
Press your head against your hands, first pressing forward, and then pushing your hands to the back to press backwards.
Stand about two feet back from a corner. Place your left arm on the left-side wall and your right arm on the right-side wall, and then lean in as far as possible without any pain. Hold the stretch for 30 seconds to work your shoulder muscles.

“People have raised concerns about the environmental impact of smartphones, and the radiation given off by cell phones is of great interest and the subject of many studies,” said Beutler. “But device users are really underestimating the impact of smartphones on spine health.”

Fernandez added another bit of caution.

“Be smart when you use your smart phone,” he said. “Take prevention seriously so that you can avoid chronic pain and long-term consequences.”

To learn more about neck, shoulder or back pain, visit pinnaclehealth.org/spine or call 1-877-499-SPINE.

Illustration by Aron Rook

Health Column Proudly Sponsored by:

Happenings: Our December Calendar of Events

November 30, 2015 | by Burg Editor

Museum & Art Spaces

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

“Artisans Market,” through Dec. 18.

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, Dec. 4-Jan. 7; reception, Dec. 4, 5-8 p.m.

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

Artist of the Month: Rose Roth

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

“Toy Train Exhibit,” a display by the Keystone Model Railroad Historical Society; Saturdays and Sundays through Dec. 20.

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

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

Hershey Gardens
170 Hotel Rd., Hershey
717-534-3492; hersheygardens.org

“Santa’s Secret Garden,” Dec. 4-12.

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

“Consumed,” an art exhibition examining holiday over-consumption, through Jan. 1.

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

“The Negro Leagues in Harrisburg,” a baseball exhibit highlighting videos, memorabilia and rare cards, through Dec. 31.

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

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

“Pennsylvania Artists: A Tribute,” yearlong exhibition featuring eight Pennsylvania-based artists on a rotating basis, concludes with a showing of original acrylic paintings by acclaimed wildlife artist Gerald W. Putt, through Dec. 19.

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

“Student Honors Photography,” through Dec. 11.

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, Dec. 16-Jan. 17.

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

Works by Jenny England, through Dec. 13

Artwork by Christina Heintzelman, Dec. 15-Jan. 13

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

“Undefined,” the art of Brook Ramsey, through Dec. 17.

“smoke.grind.paint,” works by Todd Williams, Dec. 18-Jan. 14.

Read, Make, Learn

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

Dec. 8, 9: “Feast of the 7 Fishes,” 6-9 p.m.
Dec. 16: “Holiday Appetizers,” 6-9 p.m.
Dec. 30: “Night Before New Year’s Eve”, 6-9 p.m.
Dec. 31: “New Year’s Eve Dinner,” 6-9 p.m.

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

Dec. 1: Curl Up With the Classics—“Skipping Christmas,” 1 p.m.
Dec. 1: Beginner Ballroom for the Holidays, 7 p.m.
Dec. 5: Yarn-Wrapped Wreaths, 1:30 p.m.
Dec. 6: Elves in the Making, 2 p.m.
Dec. 7: Fredricksen Writes, 6:45 p.m.
Dec. 14-17: Library for Lunch, 12 p.m.
Dec. 15: Fredricksen Reads, 7 p.m.
Dec. 16: Adventure Crafts: “Outerspace,” 4:30 p.m.

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

Dec. 3: Holiday Cookie Class
Dec. 12: Open House—Make and Take Foodie Gifts

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

Dec. 6, 13, 20, 26-30: Little Elves Workshop, 11 a.m.-3 p.m.
Dec. 5, 12, 19, 26: Snowball Saturdays, 10 a.m.-2 p.m.
Dec. 31: Rock Around the Clock, 11 a.m.-3 p.m.

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

Dec. 1: Women’s Group, 7 p.m.
Dec. 2, 9, 16, 23, 30: Common Roads Youth, 6 p.m.
Dec. 5, 12, 19, 26: Weekly Meditation Practice, 11 a.m.
Dec. 6, 13, 20, 27: Alcoholics Anonymous, 12 p.m.
Dec. 10: Aging with Pride Lunchtime Discussion, 12 p.m.

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

Dec. 1: Sci-Fi Writer’s Group, 7 p.m.
Dec. 1, 9: Meet-Up, 9 a.m.
Dec. 2: Market Place HOA Meeting, 6:30 p.m.
Dec. 2, 9, 16, 23, 30: Midtown Chess Club, 11 a.m.
Dec. 3, 10, 17, 24, 31: Almost Uptown Poetry Cartel, 7 p.m.
Dec. 4, 11, 18, 25: Nathaniel Gadsden’s Spoken Word Café, 7 p.m.
Dec. 5: Good News Café, 6 p.m.
Dec. 7: Midtown Writer’s Group, 6 p.m.
Dec. 8: Dauphin County Young Democrats Meeting, 7 p.m.
Dec. 10, 17: Camp Curtin Toastmasters, 6:30 p.m.
Dec. 12: Story Reading w/Cynthia Sudor, 11 a.m.
Dec, 12: Poetry Reading & Signing w/Jesse Waters & Melanie Simms, 2 p.m.
Dec. 13, 27: TED Talks, 1 p.m.
Dec. 16: Sci Fi & Fantasy Book Club, 7 p.m.
Dec. 18: Coffee Tasting with Café Staff, 12 p.m.
Dec. 18: Tea Tasting w/Café Staff, 2 p.m.
Dec. 19: Coffee & Critique—Designer Workshop, 8:30 a.m.
Dec. 20: Midtown Writer’s Group, 1 p.m.
Dec. 20: LGBT Book Club, 5 p.m.
Dec. 22: Friends of Midtown Safety Committee, 6:30 p.m.
Dec. 28: Feminism Book Club, 7 p.m.

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

Dec. 3: Beginning Knitting

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

Dec. 1: Get to Know Your Sewing Machine, 6-8 p.m.
Dec. 2: Learn to Knit, 6-8 p.m.
Dec. 5: Free Kids’ Drop-in Art Classes, 1-4 p.m.
Dec. 9: Machine Sewing Basics, 5:30-8:30 p.m.

Rubicon
270 North St., Harrisburg
717-317-9027; rubiconhbg.com

Dec. 3: Central PA Youth Ballet Charity Bartending Event, 5-7 p.m.

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

Dec. 6: Family Paint Party, 1-3 p.m.

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

Dec. 5: Wreath Making Workshop, 10 a.m.-12 p.m.
Dec. 12: Scout Workshop: Bears. “Sharing Your World with Wildlife,” 10 a.m.-2:30 p.m.
Dec. 19: “Cabin Fever Walk,” 1-2:30 p.m.
Dec. 19-Jan.3: “Winter Discovery,” 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

Live Music Around Harrisburg

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

Dec. 4: Start Making Sense, a Tribute to Talking Heads
Dec. 5: Dr. Slothclaw
Dec. 11: Scythian
Dec. 12: Rivers w/Indian Summer Jars
Dec. 31: New Year’s Eve Extravaganza

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

Dec. 1: Daniel Sheehan
Dec. 2: Deborah Anderson
Dec. 3: Jessica Cook
Dec. 5, 19: Chris Emkey
Dec. 8: Maria Batista
Dec. 10, 13, 17, 27: Anthony Haubert
Dec. 11, 15, 26: Roy Lefever
Dec. 12, 16, 18: Noel Gevers
Dec. 22: Corinna Mazzitti
Dec. 31: Ted Ansel

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

Dec. 4: Girlfriend in a Coma
Dec. 5: A Scent Like Wolves
Dec. 6: Rusted Root
Dec. 9: Burn Halo, Black Tide, SycAmour
Dec. 12: Brent & Zach from Shinedown
Dec. 13: Andrew W.K.
Dec. 16: All That Remains
Dec. 19: Fuel & Trapt
Dec. 20: August Burns Red
Dec. 27: Texas in July

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

Dec. 4: Jeanine & Friends
Dec. 5: Dan Zukowski
Dec. 6: Erik Bohn
Dec. 11: Antonio Andrade
Dec. 12: Steven Gellman
Dec. 13: Coco & The Bug
Dec. 17: Mark Santana
Dec. 18: Kevin Kline
Dec. 19: Joe Cooney
Dec. 20: Womack & Lowery
Dec. 26: Ellyot H. Ray
Dec. 27: Devix

Fredricksen Library
100 N. 19^th Street, Camp HIll
717-761-3900; fredricksenlibrary.org

Dec. 14: Harp and Handbells Concert

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

Dec. 4: First Friday w/Vetour Productions
Dec. 5: Pitch Blak Brass Band w/West Philadelphia Orchestra
Dec. 10: Strangest of Places
Dec. 11-12: Party Line Music Festival
Dec. 18: Rivers, That Girl, Limbo Jimbo
Dec. 19: Jingleball with Timmy and the Creeping Thyme & Headache with Pictures
Dec. 26: Jeffrey Gaines

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

Dec. 19-20: “The Nutcracker” w/CPYB (Hershey Theatre)

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

Dec. 5: Hershey Symphony “Holiday Spectacular”
Dec. 6: Straight No Chaser

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

Dec. 4: Adrian Blitzer
Dec. 5: Stomp’d
Dec. 11: Jughead
Dec. 12: Steel
Dec. 18: Dirt Cheap
Dec. 19: Penntera
Dec. 26: Wooly

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

Dec. 4: Overholt, Meg and the Right Sound, Bea Troxel
Dec. 11: Olds Sleeper
Dec. 18: GypsyGrass members of Colebrook Road & DeAngelo Trio

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

Dec. 12: Tiger Saw & Viking Moses

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

Dec. 3: Celtic Woman
Dec. 10: Paul Anka

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

Dec. 4: Wind Symphony

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

Dec. 4: Ian Fitzgerald
Dec. 18: Mike Miskie

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

Dec. 4: Author
Dec. 17: Very Americans & Marathon

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

Dec. 4: Back Rhodes
Dec. 11: Visitors Duo
Dec. 17: Chaz Depaulo

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

Dec. 2: Acoustic Stew Open Jam
Dec. 3, 10, 17: Open Electric Jam
Dec. 11: Marissa Elise & The Groove
Dec. 12-13: Don Johnson Project
Dec. 18: Shawan and the Wonton
Dec. 21: River City Big Band
Dec. 28: CPFJ Tribute to Ron Waters

Rubicon
270 North St., Harrisburg
717-317-9027; rubiconhbg.com

Dec. 19: Aortic Valve

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

Dec. 4: Mitch Gregory
Dec. 5: Shea Quinn & Steve Swisher
Dec. 11: Maria Wilson
Dec. 12: Song Smith
Dec. 18: Music Thru Science Lite
Dec. 19: Josh Krevsky
Dec. 26: Wally DeWall

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

Dec. 4: Jazz in the City
Dec. 4: Danú: A Christmas Gathering

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

Dec. 26: Nate Myers & The Aces

Susquehanna Folk Music Society
sfmsfolk.org

Dec. 5: Wil Maring & Robert Bowling
Dec. 13: Holiday Jam Session

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

Dec. 3: LSO Holiday Brass
Dec. 4: QuintEssentially Brass
Dec. 4: Steve Rudolph Trio
Dec. 5-6: Glorious Sounds of the Season
Dec. 8: Irish Christmas in America
Dec. 10-11: Jeremy Kendall
Dec. 18: Alice Tan Ridley

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

Dec. 4-5: Get the Led Out, Led Zeppelin Tribute
Dec. 16: The Manhattan Transfer
Dec. 23: Todd Rundgren
Dec. 29: Wizards of Winter

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

Dec. 10: The Boys Under the Stairs

The Stage Door

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

Through Dec. 30: “The 2015 Christmas Show”
Dec. 31: Cirque Musica & Lancaster Symphony Orchestra

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

Through Dec. 31: “A Christmas Story”

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

Dec. 2-19: “A Popcorn Hat Christmas Carol”
Dec. 11-12: “Hear the Voice, Be the Verse”
Dec. 18: TMI Improv
Dec. 31: “The Princess and the Pea”

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

Dec. 4-5: J. Jay Boyd
Dec. 11-12: Grandma Lee
Dec. 31: Dustin Diamond

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

Dec. 4, 11, 18: Harold Hour
Every Saturday: Improv Comedy & Free Improv Mixer
Every Sunday: Open Mic

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

Dec. 3-13: “It’s A Wonderful Life”
Dec. 17-20: “Charlie Brown Christmas”

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

Dec. 8-9: “Rudolph the Rednosed Reindeer”
Dec. 19-20: George Balanchine’s “The Nutcracker”

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

Dec. 4-12: “The Great American Trailer Park Christmas”

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

Dec. 10-20: “A Christmas Carol”

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

Dec. 5: Carraig School of Irish Dance
Dec. 18: Comedy Night

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

Through Dec. 13: “Peter, Hook & the Darlings”
Dec. 13: “A Christmas Carol” staged reading
Dec. 17-23: “The Santaland Diaries”

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

Dec. 5: “The Hip Nut” (Greater York Dance)
Dec. 6: “Peppa Pig Live!”
Dec. 12-13: “The Nutcracker” (Midstate Ballet)

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

Dec. 19: “Amahl and the Night Visitors”

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

Dec. 12-13: George Balanchine’s “The Nutcracker”
Dec. 31: “The Princess & the Pea” (Popcorn Hat Players)

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

Dec. 11-12: “Sinatra Centennial”

Musical Notes: Songs for the Season

November 30, 2015 | by Andrew Dyrli Hermeling

Typically, this column is focused on rock and pop music. However, sometimes, I just can’t resist getting into the holiday spirit. And seeing as Harrisburg is home to many superb holiday concert events, it seemed only fitting that we take a break from the guitars and drums and focus on a more seasonally appropriate sound. So, put a scarf around your neck, sip a little eggnog and gather the family for some of our most joyful celebrations of the holiday.

HARRISBURG GAY MEN’S CHORUS, 12/6, 4PM, UNITARIAN CHURCH OF HARRISBURG, $15: The Harrisburg Gay Men’s Chorus has been combining a love of music with a mission for presenting gay-positive entertainment for 29 years. Although they are a mainstay of Harrisburg cultural events, they have also performed across the country alongside such ensembles as the Manhattan Philharmonic and the Turtle Creek Chorale. This year’s holiday concert, “Just Say ‘Yes’ to an ‘80s Christmas!” is dedicated to Nancy Reagan and the rest of her esteemed decade. The chorus encourages all attendees to wear their most audacious shoulder pads and spray up some big hair in the spirit of the former first lady. Expect a lot of holiday spirit with just a dash of tongue-in-cheek.

THE MANHATTAN TRANSFER, 12/16, 7:30PM, WHITAKER CENTER, $47.50-$65: This famed vocal ensemble traces its roots to 1969. Founded by Tim Hauser, a former marketing executive and New York cab driver, the group has gone through numerous line-up changes while always staying true to its swinging doo-wop roots. The Manhattan Transfer has recorded with some of the greatest vocalists and songwriters in the history of pop, including Bette Midler, Tony Bennett, James Taylor and Smokey Robinson. The group will be performing a holiday-themed concert that is sure to be a treat for the whole family.

SUSQUEHANNA CHORALE: 12/18, 8PM, MESSIAH COLLEGE, PARMER HALL, $20/$25: The Susquehanna Chorale is the ensemble-in-residence at Messiah College. The 36-member chamber choir has received national accolades, and their annual holiday concert has become a central Pennsylvania tradition. This year’s performance, “A Candlelight Christmas,” features a rendition of Respighi’s “Laud to the Nativity.” Their performance will take place within Parmer Hall, the remarkable centerpiece of the college’s High Center for Worship and Performing Arts. Considering the chorale’s track record, this should prove to be an evening of peerless artistry.

Mentionables: Tomáseen Foley, 12/2, Rose Lehrman Arts Center; Pitch Blak Brass Band w/the West Philadelphia Orchestra, 12/5, H*MAC; Rivers w/Indian Summer Jars, 12/12, Abbey Bar; Trans-Siberian Orchestra, 12/18, Giant Center; Jeffrey Gaines, 12/26, H*MAC; Wizards of Winter, 12/29, The Forum

Curtains, not Candy: “Sweetest Place on Earth” also offers theatrical treats.

November 30, 2015 | by Barbara Trainin Blank

Hershey Theatre

For many, the name “Hershey” conjures up a world-class amusement park, a huge sports arena and America’s best-known chocolate.

But those looking for theater in the town named for magnate Milton S. Hershey won’t be disappointed.

The two best known are, in fact, a study in contrasts.

Hershey Area Playhouse is an intimate community space, born out of grass-roots efforts and housed in what was once a barn that was 136 years old when its conversion to a theater began in 2002.

Meanwhile, Hershey Theatre is a majestic professional venue with more than 1900 seats, envisioned by Milton Hershey as far back as 1915. Completed in 1933, it recalls the opulence of 20-century European theaters—with high ceilings and walls faced with four different types of marble.

Therefore, audience members have two spectacular choices depending on their interests and moods.

Everyone Welcome
Hershey Area Playhouse traces its roots to a meeting at the Hershey Public Library on Jan. 13, 1999, organized by founder Skip Becker.

The meeting was shut down prematurely by an ice storm, but not before a group of community supporters elected a board of directors and chose a name. “Hershey Area” referred to the fact that the founders wanted to encourage theater lovers from around the area, not just the town, to participate.

And that expansive vision continues today in how the theater operates, said Susan Cort, a member of the original board who currently serves on the marketing committee.

“Everyone is welcome, whether you have no theater experience or 40 years of experience,” she said.

At first, the community theater was without a permanent home, and it traveled “from venue to venue to perform,” said Cort.

HAP’s vagabond status ended in 2002 when Michael Leader, CEO of Country Meadows, offered the use of the barn on the edge of the retirement/nursing home campus for a new permanent community theater—at the cost of just $1 a year.

“It was extraordinarily generous,” said Mark Douglas Cuddy, a member of the artistic (play-selecting) committee at HAP.

To enhance the community experience, HAP was built as a ¾-round theater, which means that the stage extends into the audience on three sides. This set up, plus the fact that the theater itself is small, provides great intimacy and connectedness between audience and players.

The theater, in other words, is perfect for putting on community productions, said Cort.

Not Sitting Dark
In contrast to HAP, the Hershey Theatre is far more traditional and ornate, as Milton Hershey built the theater to “wow,” not to offer intimacy.

The magnificent structure is festooned with marble, intricate tile-work, bas-relief images and paintings with classical themes. The sides of the auditorium were built to resemble a Byzantine castle, while the stage itself has design elements of a Venetian canal.

In addition, the theater was built not as ¾-round, but as a proscenium, a classical design in which all the action takes place directly in front of the audience. It’s also quite sizeable, seating 1,904 people.

Until the recent past, Hershey Theatre was best known for touring shows from the Great White Way. In 1954, a Broadway tour of the Rodgers and Hammerstein’s hit musical “The King and I” came to Hershey with its original star, Yul Brynner.

Things have changed somewhat since 2007, when the M.S. Hershey Foundation began to partner with the theater.

“Programming is much more diversified,” said Melissa Stradnick, public relations manager for Hershey Entertainment & Resorts.

Touring shows still arrive at Hershey Theatre, such as the upcoming revival of Rodgers and Hammerstein’s “Cinderella” in January. And, despite its connection with Hershey, not all shows are family oriented; the theater also presents more adult fare like “Avenue Q” and “Spring Awakening.”

Then there is the occasional “PG-13”-type show, like “Matilda,” which played in November, said Dennis Norton, the theater’s entertainment programming manager.

“Our mission is to present the current state of what’s opened on Broadway,” he said.

“Ragtime,” based on E. L. Doctorow’s novel and scheduled for April, is part of the educational component that Hershey Theatre also embraces.

Aside from Broadway-type fare, you’ll find comedy shows, children’s shows and Hershey Symphony concerts.

“One thing we stay away from is heavy rock concerts,” said Stradnick.

Whatever is presented, Hershey Theatre is much more active than it used to be.

“It’s such a beautiful theater, that we don’t want it to sit dark,” said Stradnick. “We also try to make sure not to saturate the market with the same thing.”

All Imaginations
Although Hershey Area Playhouse has offered some controversial shows, such as “That Championship Season,” recent programming has focused on family-friendly material. These include musicals, comedies and dramas, like this past year’s “Lend Me a Tenor” and “Oliver!” noted Cuddy, who is also a board member.

This month features two holiday-related shows: “It’s a Wonderful Life” and “Charlie Brown Christmas.”

“We made the made a decision early on to attract and integrate young actors and directors,” Cuddy said. “We want to be welcoming. We’re not just for audiences, but a community theater for actors, directors and those who want to work behind the scenes.”

Aside from five main stage shows, Hershey Area Playhouse also offers less-traditional fare.

A play called “Drifting,” about traumatic sports brain injuries in sports, was to be performed at the Hershey Medical Center, but was done instead at HAP. Then there was “Edges,” a rock opera about bullying, heartbreak and other subject matter geared to young people.

HAP also has “dark night offerings,” which have included appearances of Molasses Creek, a contemporary folk band from North Carolina that holds fundraisers for the theater; Sweet Sounds concerts featuring students from Hershey High School and Milton Hershey High; and staged readings by Playwrights Alliance of Pennsylvania.

“Our mantra is, ‘All imaginations welcomed,’” said Cuddy.

For more information, about Hershey Area Playhouse, visit www.hersheyareaplayhouse.com. For more information about the Hershey Theatre, visit www.hersheytheatre.com.

“Nutcracker” Christmas

One of the staples of Hershey Theatre is the annual production of “George Balanchine’s The Nutcracker” by Central Pennsylvania Youth Ballet.

This year, performances will take place Dec. 19 and 20, with the participation of the Harrisburg Symphony Orchestra under the baton of Stuart Malina.

It’s a long-standing relationship. The Carlisle-based ballet school and company first performed “The Nutcracker” at the Hershey Theatre in December 1977, with choreography and staging by Marcia Dale Weary, CPYB’s founding artistic director.

Later, the school earned the license to dance the Balanchine version.

Since CPYB performs the beloved Christmas confection at Whitaker Center for Science and the Arts as well, why Hershey Theatre?

Several reasons, said Weary, including Hershey Theatre’s orchestra pit.

“It’s also one of the most beautiful theaters in the whole world and very large,” she said. “Some of our performances get full houses, or nearly so.”

Plus, she added, the large stage gives room for the Christmas tree to “grow” and for “snow” to fall.

“Some people think if they don’t see ‘Nutcracker,’ it’s not Christmas to them,” Weary said. “Some people come to see it every year.”

Holiday Spice: Something sweet, with a little bite, for Christmas.

November 30, 2015 | by Rosemary Ruggieri Baer

Every Christmas, I leave my Italian cooking heritage behind and take a culinary journey to Sweden, where, in early December, children help make a spicy ginger cookie known as pepparkakor.

Tradition dictates that the cookies are not eaten until Dec. 13, which is the feast of St. Lucia and the start of the Christmas season. The feast of St. Lucia is also celebrated in many regions in Italy, where “Santa Lucia” is known as the patron saint of light.

For me, it wouldn’t be Christmas without my ginger cookies. I have been making them for more than 35 years using a timeworn and tattered magazine page that I safely keep in a book the rest of the year. Because these cookies are rolled and cut, they involve a little more effort than everyone’s favorite chocolate chip, but the recipe makes a lot and the cookies keep a long time. I usually am still eating them well into January with my afternoon tea or “dunked” in a glass of milk after dinner.

If you think you might like to give these cookies a try, there are some things to consider:

You will need a good mixer to make these. I use a KitchenAid. It is possible a heavy-duty hand mixer will work, but the dough is fairly firm.
After mixing, the dough needs to chill overnight in the refrigerator.
You will need cookie cutters. Pick some in your favorite Christmas shapes. I often only use one type like stars or hearts but always make a few gingerbread boys to use as decorations around the house. They can be tied to a Christmas wreath or placed in a bowl of fresh greens.
The thinner the cookie dough is rolled, the crisper the cookie will be.
Your house will smell like Christmas!

Ingredients

3 ½ cups of un-sifted, all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon of baking soda
¼ teaspoon salt
1 ½ teaspoons ground ginger
1 ½ teaspoons ground cinnamon
1 teaspoon ground cloves
½ cup butter softened (sweet butter is best)
¾ cup granulated sugar
1 egg
¾ cup light molasses
1 teaspoon grated lemon peel

Directions

Measure un-sifted flour and sift with the baking soda, salt, ginger, cinnamon and cloves onto a large sheet of wax paper.
In a large bowl of an electric mixer, beat the butter, sugar and egg on high speed until light and fluffy.
Add the molasses and lemon peel and beat until well blended.
With a wooden spoon, stir in the sifted flour mixture.
Mix with your hands until all the flour is incorporated and the dough is well blended and smooth.
Cut the dough into 4 equal parts, wrap each piece in waxed paper and refrigerate overnight.
The next day, lightly grease several cookie sheets and pre-heat the oven to 375 degrees.
Roll out one section of the cookie dough at a time, keeping the others refrigerated. Roll the dough to about ¼ inch thickness.
Cut the cookies with your desired cutter and place 1 inch apart on the greased cookie sheets.
Bake for 6 to 8 minutes until lightly browned. (Let your oven be your guide and at first watch them carefully as they bake.)
Remove cookies to wire racks to cool.
When cool, store the cookies in a pretty Christmas tin and keep in a cool place (like the garage).

The cookies make a nice little gift for work friends or to take to a friend’s house for dinner. Place them in clear cellophane bags and tie them with some Christmas ribbon. When crumbled, they are delicious over vanilla ice cream for a quick dessert. And you can crush them as a substitute for graham cracker crumbs in a holiday cheesecake.

Now, if you ever have the opportunity to do a little research on the Feast of St. Lucia (why wouldn’t you?), you will learn that tradition also holds that, on the morning of Dec. 13, the eldest daughter of the family dresses in a white robe and places a wreath with lighted tapers on her head. She then brings sweet rolls to the other members of the family who are still asleep. I have never gone that far, at least not yet.

Buon Natale!

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