River Sounds: Concerts revived at Riverfront Park in new summer music series

June 27, 2025 | by Skye Leppo

Dave & Ashley Niedbalski

Riverfront Park concerts return this month, thanks to a multi-pronged effort supported by Dauphin County.

The Dauphin County Live Concert Series is being operated by Midstate Shows, an imprint through independent concert promoter Grand Rising Curations. Grand Rising Curations founder and CEO Dave Niedbalski also runs music festivals throughout the country, including Pilgrimage (in Tennessee) and Iron Blossom (in Virginia).

Niedbalski, who grew up in Chambers Hill in Swatara Township, spent more than 14 years with Live Nation and launched Grand Rising Curations in the wake of the pandemic.

“I had a strong desire to be an independent promoter with a fan and artist-focused mindset,” he said, adding that his team is mostly made up of former Live Nation folks who share his vision.

Niedbalski said that the new series is an evolution of what Frank Schofield built running the former HU Presents Summer Concert Series, sponsored for several years by Harrisburg University.

“We have known each other for over a decade and were trying to find a way to work together on the Riverfront concert series,” Niedbalski said. “And when the HU series went away, it was a natural fit for Frank and me to bring it back to life as a continuation of what he built.”

The series will feature country artist Russell Dickerson on July 29, indie mainstays The Head and the Heart with support from Wilderado and Marfa on Aug. 2, and The Marley Brothers—Damian “Jr. Gong” and Stephen Marley—on Aug. 3.

Organizers anticipate 10,000 to 12,000 attendees over the course of the three planned concerts, according to Niedbalski.

In February, Dauphin County commissioners voted to approve $250,000 in county tourism funds to support the concert series.

“We started this with HU Presents, and as that was discontinued, the commissioners felt a need to continue these shows,” said Schofield. “We know how magical Riverfront Park is and certainly want to keep that going.”

This year, the goal is to lay a foundation going forward, so that the series evolves and becomes multi-genre, Niedbalski said.

“Next year, you’ll see more shows and more genres,” he said.

Schofield echoed this.

“We’re going to grow bigger next year and just continue what we started,” he said.

Beyond the financial support from the county, Niedbalski mentioned that the city has been supportive and that other partners include The Millworks, Ace Beverage, Faulkner, Enders Insurance and others.

Niedbalski no longer resides in central Pennsylvania but wants current residents in the area to have a great time at these shows.

“There’s always been a lure to come back and bring something to the city that wasn’t there when I was growing up,” he said.

The Dauphin County Live Concert Series runs July 29 to Aug. 3 in Riverfront Park, Harrisburg. For more information and ticket details, visit midstateshows.com.

The Head and the Heart, in the Park

This month, the Head and the Heart will play in support of their sixth studio album, “Aperture,” on Saturday, Aug. 2, as part of the Dauphin County Live Concert Series.

The band sold out Riverfront Park in 2023 as part of the previous HU Presents summer concert series.

Kenny Hensley has been playing piano in the band since the group started picking up traction in Seattle in 2009.

“We’ve been through a lot, and this is the closest and tightest we’ve been in a while,” he told TheBurg. “If there was ever a chance to see us play, now’s the time. These shows are going to be more positive and fun than they’ve been in a long while. I’m really excited for people to come hear these live.”

We recently had the chance to do a video interview with Hensley. Here are some snippets from that conversation (answers have been edited for brevity and clarity).

TheBurg: “Aperture,” which came out just a few weeks ago, feels stripped back. Can you talk to me about the process with this album vs. previous albums?

Hensley: We intentionally went into this record wanting to approach it like our first couple records. [We] didn’t use a producer, not on a major label where we’d had people wanting to direct what we were doing. We were able to start from scratch together without outside sources telling us what we should be doing. We wanted to do it all together, authentically.

TheBurg: Yeah, I noticed on “After the Setting Sun,” there are a lot more familiar piano sounds on this. The piano, especially on “Down in The Valley,” sounds like such a sister song, which is refreshing since on more recent albums, like “Living Mirage” (2019), that didn’t seem like such a big part of it.

Hensley: It’s funny you say that. “Living Mirage” was the only album I’m not on, because I took a year off in 2018. Not a lot of people know that.

TheBurg: Is there a post-mortem or pre-recording meeting that you guys have for what direction you’d like to go sonically?

Hensley: We were ready to get back in a room and do it together, not adding a ton of extra layers, sitting on it for a while. We went into it wanting to write songs we could perform live without all this extra production. “Finally Free” was a cool [recording] experience. Charity [Rose Thielen, guitar and vocals] directed what everyone was doing. John [Jonathan Russell, guitar and vocals] was sitting at the piano, playing random chords. Chris [Zasche, bass] was on drums. I just sat down next to John and started playing with him on the piano, and we just tracked for 30 minutes. The song made the record before we had a chance to nitpick. Love the authenticity of it.

TheBurg: What have been among your favorites from the new album to play live?

Hensley: “Finally Free” is one of them. We [John and I] sit on the piano bench together and do it like we did in the studio. It’ll be a first for us [to do it like that live]. “Fire Escape” and “Beg, Steal, Borrow”—upbeat, fun, nonstop the whole time with a lot of piano. I’m really excited to get out there and play these new songs for people to hear live. They’re sounding great.

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Community Corner: Notable July Events

June 27, 2025 | by Missy Smith

July Community Corner

Scavenger Hunt
July 1-31: Kids are invited to New Cumberland Public Library, 1 Benjamin Plaza, to search for famous paintings around the library. Find all the scavenger hunt items around the Children’s Room and win a fun prize. www.newcumberlandlibrary.org

Wellness Walks
July 2, 9, 16, 23, 30: Participate in free, moderately paced wellness walks around Wildwood Lake, 100 Wildwood Way, Harrisburg, 6:30 to 7:30 p.m., on paved, gravel or dirt surfaces. Walkers can customize the length of their walk. Comfortable shoes and water are recommended; dogs on leashes are permitted. www.explorewildwoodpark.org

Fireworks & Food
July 3: Enjoy fireworks and dinner from food trucks to kick off July Fourth weekend at Lower Paxton Township Parks and Recreation’s free Fireworks & Food Trucks event in Koons Park, 6030 Larue St., Linglestown, 5:30 to 9:30 p.m. In the event of rain, the event will be held on July 6. www.lowerpaxton-pa.gov

History Program
July 3: Colonel Charles M. Bechtel, USA (Ret.), will present “Sent to War—Returning for Peace” at 6 p.m. at the Hershey History Center, 40 Northeast Dr., Hershey. The Vietnam veteran will discuss his experiences and the healing process from revisiting the country. www.hersheyhistory.org

Summer Concerts
July 3-6: Harrisburg Symphony Orchestra presents a free summer concert series with performances on July 3 at Lebanon Valley College; July 4 at Millerstown Park; July 5 at Reservoir Park, Harrisburg; and July 6 at Carlisle Summerfair, Dickinson College. www.harrisburgsymphony.org.

Calm the Mind
July 3, 10, 17, 24, 31: Practice short, easy 15-minute calming meditations on Thursdays, 12 to 12:30 p.m., at Fredricksen Library, 100 N. 19th St., Camp Hill. The meditations are suitable for people of any background or religion. www.fredricksenlibrary.org

Declaration Reading
July 4: Historical Society of Dauphin County presents the 15th annual public reading of the Declaration of Independence from the porch of the John Harris-Simon Cameron Mansion, 219 S. Front St., Harrisburg. A John Harris, Jr. reenactor will read the Declaration at 10 a.m. and 12 p.m. www.dauphincountyhistory.org

Patriotic Concert
July 4: Friends of New Cumberland Public Library, 1 Benjamin Plaza, welcome the New Cumberland Town Band for a patriotic concert on the library lawn, 10:30 a.m. to 12 p.m. This event will feature concessions for sale in Foundation House. www.newcumberlandlibrary.org

Fourth Fest
July 4: City of Harrisburg will host the July 4 Food Truck Festival in Riverfront Park, 12 to 7 p.m., with more than 40-plus food trucks, live music, a wine/beer garden, free kids’ activities and other things to do. www.harrisburgpa.gov

Fourth Celebration
July 4: Celebrate the Fourth of July at The Star Barn Village, Newville Road, Elizabethtown, 3 to 8:45 p.m. Enjoy a ride through Herr’s Mill Covered Bridge, self-guided tours of Star Barn Village attractions, animal visits, a tractor-pulled wagon, pony rides, art displays, train rides, fireworks and more. www.thestarbarn.com

HBG Flea
July 5: Explore the HBG Flea for local art, vintage treasures, curated curios and unique gifts, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., at Midtown Cinema, 250 Reily St., Harrisburg. The mission of the HBG Flea is to create a platform for community growth by bringing artists, small businesses and patrons together. www.hbgflea.com

Sunset Series
July 5, 11, 18, 25: Dauphin County Parks and Recreation hosts an outdoor Sunset Music and Movie Series at Fort Hunter Park, 5300 N. Front St., Harrisburg. Bring a picnic or grab refreshments from the concession stand. www.forthunter.org

Book Sales
July 5, 19: Friends of New Cumberland Public Library, 1 Benjamin Plaza, hosts pre-owned book sales on the first and third Saturdays, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., in Foundation House, across the shared parking lot. Find books, vintage items, jewelry, music, puzzles, kids’ books, vinyl records and more. www.newcumberlandlibrary.org

Outdoor Music
July 6, 13: Lower Paxton Parks and Recreation hosts outdoor performances by the Lower Paxton Variety Band for Independence Weekend on July 6 and the Greater Harrisburg Concert Band on July 13. Both concerts held from 6 to 7:30 p.m. at Dauphin County Heroes Grove, 5010 Commons Dr., Harrisburg. www.lowerpaxton-pa.gov

Patio Parties
July 9-Aug. 27: Central Penn College, 600 Valley Rd., Enola, will host its second annual “Party on the Patio” series, with music, food trucks and patio games every Wednesday from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. www.centralpenn.edu

Morning Mixer
July 10: Network with local business professionals at Everstand, 5120 Simpson Ferry Rd., Mechanicsburg, during West Shore Chamber of Commerce’s morning mixer, 9 to 10 a.m. The event is free and open to chamber members. www.wschamber.org

Food Rally
July 10: Explore the New Cumberland Food Truck & Restaurant Rally every second Thursday of the month, 5 to 8 p.m., to grab dinner from area food trucks or New Cumberland restaurants. Enjoy shopping and special promotions at local businesses. www.newcumberlandpa.org

Flower Walk
July 11: Take a summer walk at Wildwood Park, 100 Wildwood Way, Harrisburg, 10:30 a.m. to 12 p.m., to search and view joe-pye weed, pokeweed, three species of monarda and two species of jewel weed. Learn how these flowers were named and their uses. www.explorewildwoodpark.org

Creek Float
July 11: Join Susquehanna Outfitters for a guided float on the Conodoguinet Creek from 12:30 to 4 p.m. Birdlife and wildlife are abundant along most of the creek. www.susquehannaoutfitters.com

Board Game Day
July 12: Harrisburg Board Game Alliance hosts the Harrisburg Board Game Day at Strawberry Square in Harrisburg, 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. This free event is open to all ages and skill levels. Attendees can learn new games, participate in giveaways and test unpublished designs from local creators. www.HBGAlliance.org

Shipoke Flea
July 12: The annual Shipoke Flea Market features a wide array of used goods for sale, as well as food and drink. The flea runs from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. in Riverfront Park in the Shipoke neighborhood of Harrisburg. www.shipoke.org/shipoke-flea

Forest Bathing
July 12: Participate in a guided Forest Bathing Walk at Wildwood Park, 100 Wildwood Way, Harrisburg, 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. This meditative experience, designed to reduce stress, offers immersion in the forest environment. www.explorewildwoodpark.org

Volunteer Day 
July 12: Get out in nature at Wildwood Park, 100 Wildwood Way, Harrisburg, to help with park and habitat enhancement projects, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Tools and work gloves provided and refreshments available. www.explorewildwoodpark.org

Boat Service
July 13: Salem U.C.C. Harrisburg will host an ecumenical service at 10 a.m. aboard the Pride of the Susquehanna, 11 Championship Way, Harrisburg. A casual service on the boat will be followed by a picnic in the pavilion. www.salemuccharrisburg.org

Barnyard Jazz
July 14: Hershey History Center features “Jazz at the Barnyard” outdoor summer concert series at Hershey History Center, 40 Northeast Dr., Hershey, first Fridays through September, 7 to 9 p.m. On July 14, enjoy a performance by Cadillac Jazz. www.hersheyhistory.org

Harrisburg Mile
July 16: Lace up your running shoes for the Harrisburg Mile. The 44th annual race begins at Front and Maclay streets, Harrisburg, with heats beginning at 5:15 p.m. A celebration follows in Riverfront Park. www.hbgyrun.org

3rd in the Burg
July 18: Explore the best of Harrisburg during 3rd in the Burg, the monthly arts and culture event, where you can visit and enjoy galleries, restaurants and art spaces throughout downtown and Midtown, 6 to 9 p.m. www.thirdintheburg.org

Jeep Show
July 18-19: PA Jeeps hosts the 29th annual All Breeds Jeep Show at the Carlisle Fairgrounds, 1000 Bryn Mawr Rd., Carlisle, with a show, vendors, competitions, a kids area and an obstacle course. www.pajeeps.org

Community Day
July 19: Harrisburg Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. hosts its annual Community Day, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., at Camp Curtin Academy, 2900 N. 6th St., Harrisburg. [email protected]

Pride Event
July 19: New Cumberland Collective hosts a celebration of the LGBTQ+ community at New Cumberland Borough Park. The family-friendly event features LGBTQ+ artists, advocates, resources and merchants, along with games, kids’ crafts, drag bingo and food trucks. Activities available from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. www.newcumberland.co

Book Talk
July 19: Stephen M. Vest will discuss his book, “George Graham Vest,” 2 to 3 p.m., at the National Civil War Museum, 1 Lincoln Circle, Harrisburg. Book signing will follow. The program is free to the public; regular admission applies for entrance to galleries. www.nationalcivilwarmuseum.org

Brewfest
July 19: Sample more than 50 craft brews while listening to music and tasting food from area food trucks at the 13th annual Dauphin County Brewfest on the front lawn of Fort Hunter Mansion, 5300 N. Front St., Harrisburg, 3 to 7 p.m. Tickets are $40 in advance, $50 at the door and $15 for designated drivers. www.forthunter.org

Drag Downtown
July 19: New Cumberland Collective and New Cumberland Pride present a night of performances featuring drag queens and kings at West Shore Theatre, 317 Bridge St., New Cumberland, 7 p.m. Tickets available from the West Shore Theatre. www.newcumberland.co

Dance Night
July 20: Dance enthusiasts are invited to join Harrisburg USA Dance Chapter #3009 for a West Coast swing lesson at 2 p.m., followed by three hours of social dancing, at PA DanceSport, 585 E. Main St., Hummelstown. Admission is $15, $10 for members and $5 for students. Facebook: USA Dance Chapter #3009 Harrisburg Area PA

Dutch Days
July 23-26: Enjoy summer family fun at the 57th annual Richfield Dutch Days, Basom Memorial Park, Richfield, with rides, bingo, food, fireworks and more. Sample a Dutch menu throughout the week. An outdoor picnic, church service and parade held on Sunday evening. www.dutchdays.com

Art Workshop
July 24: Explore natural dyes and design a unique cotton pillow cover using flowers and leaves in a creative workshop at Wildwood Park, 100 Wildwood Way, Harrisburg, 6 to 8 p.m. Participants will go on a short foraging walk and return to the Olewine Pavilion to transfer color and shapes onto the cloth. www.explorewildwoodpark.org

Summer Concerts
July 24: Celebrate summer with free live music in Greenfield Park, Lancaster. Three concerts are scheduled through August. On July 24 at 7:30 p.m., celebrate the iconic music of Billy Joel, Elton John and Stevie Wonder with “Piano Men.” Food trucks available starting at 5 p.m. www.greenfieldlancaster.com

Cookbook Swap
July 25: East Shore Area Library, 4501 Ethel St., Harrisburg, hosts a Cookbook & Kitchen Supply Swap. Community members can drop off unwanted, gently used cookbooks and kitchen supplies between 12 and 4 p.m. to share items and refresh collections. www.dcls.org

Jazz Party
July 25: A Jazz Age lawn party, “Flowers & Jazz Goes to Wonderland,” will be held on the grounds of the Historical Society of Dauphin County, 219 S. Front St., Harrisburg, 6:30 to 9 p.m. Enjoy food and desserts, beer and wine, a specialty cocktail, raffles, croquet, music, flowers and live music. Tickets start at $65. www.dauphincountyhistory.org

Pridefest
July 26: Join the celebration at the annual Pride Festival of Central PA. The day kicks off with the Pride Parade, which starts at 10 a.m. from City Island and winds through downtown Harrisburg. The festival itself takes place 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. at Soldier’s Grove, behind the state Capitol, with vendors, entertainment, food, activities and more. www.centralpapride.org

Concert Series
July 27: Harrisburg Young Professionals hosts a free Italian Lake Concert series concert with Abbey Road (Beatles cover band) at Italian Lake, N. 3rd and Division streets, Harrisburg, 6 to 8 p.m. Bring a lawn chair, picnic blankets and snacks. www.hyp.org

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Eyes + Hands: “Familiar Touch” offers a kind, sincere sense of aging

June 27, 2025 | by Gabriel Brown

Image courtesy of Music Box Films.

Choreographer and first-time director Sarah Friedland describes her new film, “Familiar Touch,” as “a coming of old age film,” and I couldn’t agree more.

The profoundly empathetic film provides a look at Ruth Goldman (Kathleen Chalfant), an octogenarian woman in the early stages of memory loss and cognitive decline. Through Ruth’s eyes and hands, we experience her journey of transitioning to life at Bella Vista, an assisted living facility.

It might seem impossible to perfectly capture a sense that isn’t vision or hearing through film, an audiovisual medium. But using her knowledge from studying dance and her time as a care companion for New York artists with dementia, Friedland dissects feeling and emotion into touch and movement onscreen. Key scenes in the film include lingering shots of Ruth’s fingers and palms holding, touching and remembering fruits, vegetables, books and recipes, and her arms and body embracing people she cares about. These shots translate palpable, physical joys to universal, audiovisual images that we can all feel.

Filmed in collaboration with the residents and staff of Villa Gardens Continuing Care Retirement Community, “Familiar Touch” offers a humanistic, non-sensationalized, but nonetheless celebratory perspective towards the elderly.

Residents of the real-life Villa Gardens put together short biographical films about themselves before participating in the shoot for “Familiar Touch.” That attitude, which treats real life and experience as art worth celebrating, bleeds perfectly into the finished film. The performances of real elders and facility residents ground the film exceptionally, giving it a level of documentary value. We care about these people because many of them are real.

Friedland knows what she’s doing behind the camera. “Familiar Touch” is a confidently shot and self-assured directorial debut. Every shot is purposeful, showcasing aspects of everyday life that aren’t dramatized or hyperbolized, finding beauty and joy in those moments. As such, the film feels like a slow-moving turntable in its character work. Ruth approaches life at Bella Vista hesitant and confused, but by the end of the film, has discovered and remembered who she is in a place that has finally grown familiar.

Chalfant delivers an excellent, nuanced performance as Ruth, progressing through stages of memory loss at Bella Vista that many of us have seen from the outside, but could not begin to comprehend from the inside, and “Familiar Touch” is a step towards that knowledge. Witnessing her performance is something I would recommend to anyone willing to understand. “Familiar Touch” opens at Midtown Cinema this month.

Midtown Cinema is located at 250 Reily St., Harrisburg. For more information, visit www.midtowncinema.com. Gabriel Brown serves as assistant manager at Midtown Cinema.

July Events
At Midtown Cinema

Potential First-Run Films
“Superman”
“Sorry Baby”
“Familiar Touch”
“Caught by the Tides”
“In the Mood for Love” (25th anniversary)

Special Events

Open Mic Night
Tuesdays, July 1 & July 15

Trivia Night
Tuesdays, July 8 & 22

Live Music
Thursdays, 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.

Saturday Morning Cartoons
“Anastasia” (1997)
Saturday, July 5 at 11 a.m.

Sunday Docs
“Free Solo” (2018)
Sunday, July 13 at 12 p.m.

Cult Favorites
“The Room” (2003)
Sunday, July 13 at 7 p.m.

3rd in the Burg Movie Night
“The Addams Family” (1991)
Friday, July 18 at 9:30 p.m.

Funny Flicks Series
“Airplane!” (1980)
Sunday, July 20 at 6 p.m.
Tuesday, July 22 at 7 p.m.

Late Night Frights
“Let the Right One In” (2008)
Friday, July 25 at 9:30 p.m.

Friends of Midtown Outdoor Film Series
“Dirty Dancing” (1987), June 28
“Jumanji” (1995), July 12
“Moana 2” (2025), Aug. 23
“Black Panther” (2018), Sept. 13

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Garden Gallivant: Nature stirs, inspires at these impressive gardens

June 27, 2025 | by Deborah Lynch

Arboretum at Penn State

Summer is the time to find gardens in their full glory.

Some find gardening to be a relaxing escape while others prefer to wander through the beauty planted and tended by others. Either way, gardens tingle the senses and draw humans into the natural world. Central Pennsylvania is the perfect place to jump into gardening—or to explore others’ creations.

Whether you’re a gardener looking for tips or just someone who loves to wander among natural beauty, Pennsylvania is home to many nationally respected public gardens featuring both native and exotic plants.

Locally, Hershey Gardens offers 23 acres of a wide variety of flowers and shrubs, rare and signature trees, seasonal displays, themed gardens, a children’s garden and a butterfly atrium. First opened in 1937 as a garden of roses, it now features more than 115 varieties of roses and is a highlight of the gardens. Residents know it’s spring when tens of thousands of tulips in almost every hue, pattern and shape explode in color in beds west of the rose garden. Hershey Gardens is open 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. through Sept. 1. For more information, visit www.hersheygardens.org.

Although for some, Longwood Gardens in Kennett Square might be a bit of a drive, it’s a drive well worth taking. The variety of gardens and plants, indoor and out, is breathtaking. With a huge conservatory full of exotic plants (and one of the world’s most beautiful bathrooms), meadows, trails, an Italian water garden, a fountain garden, an oak and conifer knoll, an open-air theater and theater garden, an orchid house, woods, a rose garden, a topiary garden and so much more, Longwood offers something for everyone with miles of walking. It is worth a visit—or two or three—each year. More information is available at www.longwoodgardens.org.

The new Palmer Museum of Art at Penn State’s University Park campus sits within the Arboretum at Penn State. The Arboretum features the H.O. Smith Botanic Gardens, 10 acres of themed garden space and 14 acres of meadows and walking paths. It includes seasonal gardens, specialty gardens, water features and a children’s garden. Three acres include plants chosen to attract birds and pollinators. The Arboretum is free every day from dawn till dusk. Go to www.arboretum.psu.edu.

Closer to home is an extraordinary new garden, The Bower, in Shermans Dale. Opened in 2021, The Bower sits on 36 acres of meadows and woodlands owned by Bill and Jane Allis, who met as students at Dickinson College, married young and bought the undeveloped property in Perry County, where they built a home and raised their children. After years away, the Allises returned in 2016 with their dream for The Bower, which would incorporate their love of art into the landscape. A Philadelphia art gallery dealer they had worked with put out a call for art while the Allises worked with a landscape architect on the space.

The sculptures, created by artists from around the world, as well as many from Pennsylvania, were selected to best fit in with the native plant landscape. The scale varies from small to large, and they are created from a variety of materials. A Vermont artist created “The Kiss,” a curvilinear wall with a 9-foot arch built from local sandstone and Pennsylvania bluestone. Philadelphia artist Rebecca Rutstein designed another wall-like abstract from thick, plasma-cut Corten steel. “Transcending Tides,” a steel and aluminum piece by Allentown artist Jeff Kahn, reminds the Allises of the flow of waving grasses on their property. They are among 13 sculptures along The Bower’s trails.

Through Oct. 18, The Bower will host open visit days on Wednesdays and Saturdays, when visitors can arrive anytime between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m. without appointment. A calendar for individual or group scheduled visits is also available. While visits are free, donations are appreciated. For more information on The Bower, see www.thegardenbower.com.

At Wildwood Park north of Harrisburg, Dauphin County Parks & Recreation hosts “Art in the Wild,” with artists using natural materials that blend into Wildwood’s natural setting. This year’s theme is “Pathways” and will be exhibited through Sept. 30 along the trail through the park.

For those who like an adventure, the Hudson Valley north of New York City offers many beautiful gardens, estates and museums, including the Storm King Art Center, a 500-acre outdoor museum in New Windsor, N.Y. It includes more than 100 sculptures by artists including Alexander Calder and Maya Lin. More information is available at www.stormking.org.

For gardens and trails that incorporate architecture into the landscape, a day trip to Grace Farms in New Canaan, Conn., is like an architectural garden, where educational buildings, a museum, cafes and entertainment venues snake through the meadows. The main building, called The River, was designed to blend in with the landscape and appears to float along the surface of the ground. The mission of Grace Farms is to explore nature, arts, justice, community and faith on 80 acres of publicly accessible natural landscape. Learn more at www.gracefarms.org.

Further north, The Path of Life Garden in Windsor, Vt., is 14 acres of wonder inspired by a famous Japanese garden in Kildare, Ireland, called “The Life of Man.” Eighteen works of various sizes and materials symbolize the journey from birth to death and beyond. It includes a hemlock maze, a large granite Buddha for contemplation, and a “Tunnel of Oblivion.” For more information, go to www.greatriveroutfitters.com/pol.

In summertime, nature is at her most colorful. There may be no better way to explore this beauty than a trip to one of the fabulous gardens, near and distant, mentioned above.

If you like what we do, please support our work. Become a Friend of TheBurg!

Happenings: Our July Calendar of Events

June 27, 2025 | by Missy Smith

Happenings

Museums & Art Spaces

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

“Tailgate Travelers—Classic Station Wagons,” through Oct. 17

“Don Allen Chevrolet Dealership Retrospective,” through Oct. 17

“The Corvette Then and Now,” through Oct. 17

“Husavarna—Get Your Husky On,” through Oct. 25

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

“Never Have I Ever,” student/teacher exhibit, through July 24

The Art Center School & Galleries
18 Artcraft Dr., Mechanicsburg
717-697-2072; theartcenterschoolandgalleries.com

“From Every Angle—Our Member Collective” exhibit, July 11-24; reception: July 11, 5:30-7 p.m.

Carlisle Arts Learning Center (CALC)
38 W. Pomfret St., Carlisle
717-249-6973; carlislearts.org

“In a Different Light,” paintings by Jill Peckelun and photography by Louise Thomas, through July 26; reception: July 13, 5:30-7 p.m.

“Perspectives” by Dr. Eliseo Rosario, MD, July 18-Aug. 9

The Cornerstone Coffeehouse
2133 Market St., Camp Hill
thecornerstonecoffeehouse.com

July artist of the month

East Shore Area Library
4501 Ethel St., Harrisburg
717-652-9380; dcls.org

Limelight on Local Artists—Brenda Fernsler and Craig S. Bomberger, July 1-Sept. 30; reception: July 12, 2-4 p.m.

Gallery on the Square
Millersburg Area Art Association
226 Union St., Millersburg
Facebook: Gallery on the Square

Featured artist of the month: Jim Hoffman, July 2-26

Hershey Area Art Association (HAAA)
hersheyart.org

HAAA Member Artwork at Hershey Public Library, hallway gallery, through Aug. 9

HAAA Member Artwork at Hershey Public Library, community room, through Nov. 29

Lebanon Picture Frame & Fine Art Gallery
847 Cumberland St., Lebanon
LebanonPictureFrame.com

Eva Bender watercolors, through July 26

Messiah University
One University Ave., Mechanicsburg
717-766-2511; messiah.edu

Annual Student Juried Exhibition, through Aug. 29

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

New works by Eve Tiday, Rea Ann Ross, Tami Bitner, Cindi Hardwicke, Kate Gambini, Rebecca Adey, Rachel Bouwnese , through July 13

New works by Pat Frese, Richard Souders, Marsha Souders, Ana Hyder, Stever Barber and Paul Gallo, July 15-Aug. 10

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

2025 Youth Art Contest winners exhibit, July 12-Sept. 27

The mixed media art of Caitlin Gill, through July 19

New Cumberland Public Library
1 Benjamin Plaza, New Cumberland
717-774-7820; newcumberlandlibrary.org

“Art in the Stacks—Kids Art Show,” featuring work to match the theme of the library’s summer reading challenge, “Color Our World,” July 1-31

“Rooted in Clay—Nature’s Form and Texture,” intricately crafted tiles by Aubrey Maurer, July 1-31

Pennsylvania National Fire Museum
1820 N. 4th St., Harrisburg
717-232-8915; pnfm.org

Exhibits dedicated to Pennsylvania firefighting history

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

“Art of the State,” the 58th annual juried exhibition of Pennsylvania’s rich artistic heritage, featuring a diverse range of works in various mediums, through Sept. 14

“Game Changers—Pennsylvania Women Who Made History,” celebrating women from across PA in diverse fields

“Bannered Heroes—Celebrating Pennsylvania’s African American Veterans,” presented by Beta Pi Boulé, the Harrisburg chapter of Sigma Pi Phi Fraternity (the Boulé)

“Home Improvements—New to the Collections,” artifacts designed and marketed in the first half of the 1900s as modern conveniences

“Portraits of Identity—HAAPI Through The Lens”

“HORSE2AUTO: A Transportation Revolution”

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

“Tribute to the Civil Rights Movement—Quilted Swing Coats by Patricia A. Montgomery,” through July 26

“Color Contradances,” vibrant, calculated paintings by Ai-Wen Wu Kratz that are influenced by theatre, classical music and dance, through Aug. 24

“Future Fossils,” imagined relics by international artists that depict a future apocalypse, collectively offering a preserved, contemporary snapshot of present-day life, through Nov. 2

Suzanne H. Arnold Art Gallery
Lebanon Valley College
101 College Ave., Annville
717-233-8668; lvc.edu/gallery

“Paper Trails—Exploring Artists and Techniques in Printmaking,” through July 27

The Trout Gallery
Dickinson College
240 W. High St., Carlisle
717-254-8159; troutgallery.org

“Imprint—Selected Gifts from Eric Denker ‘75,” celebrating donations from Dickinson College alumnus and art historian Eric Denker, through Sept. 13

“To Listen Deeply,” through Dec. 13; reception: Sept. 5, 5-7 p.m.

Wheel of Light Studio
3738 Peters Mountain Rd., Halifax
wheeloflightstudio.com

“Sisters of Stitch Craft and the Sorcery of Fiber,” through July 26; closing reception: July 26, 1-3 p.m.

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

“Art in the Wild,” a community outdoor environmental art exhibit with works composed of mostly natural materials to blend with Wildwood’s natural setting, through Sept. 30

Winters Heritage House Museum
41-47 E. High St., Elizabethtown
717-367-4672; elizabethtownhistory.org

“Transportation Exhibit,” through July 6

Read, Make, Learn

The Art Center School & Galleries
18 Artcraft Dr., Mechanicsburg
717-697-2072; theartcenterschoolandgalleries.com

July 7-11: Still Life (ages 9-14), 10 a.m.-12 p.m.
July 7-11: Figure Drawing (ages 9-14), 1-3 p.m.
July 8: Sunrises & Sunsets Watercolor Workshop (adults), 3-5 p.m.
July 8: Paint your Pet Watercolor Workshop (adults), 6-8 p.m.
July 8: Supervised Lampworking Lab (12+ w/ parent & adults), 10:30-11:30 a.m. or 12-1 p.m.
July 9: Teen Glassblowing: Intensive 1-Day Camp (ages 12-17), 12-3 p.m.
July 10, 17, 24, 31: Acrylic Painting (adults), 1:30-3 p.m.
July 10, 17, 24, 31: Beginning Drawing (adults), 6-8 p.m.
July 14-18: Heavy Metal (ages 9-14), 10 a.m.-12 p.m.
July 14-18: Elements of the Human Face (ages 9-14), 1-3 p.m.
July 14-18, 25: Teen Wheel Throwing Camp (ages 14-17), 1-4 p.m.
July 15, 22, 29: Lampworked Glass Beads for Beginners (12+ w/ parent & adults), 6-8 p.m.
July 15-17: Playing with Fire Camp – Beginner (ages 12-17), 1-4 p.m.
July 21-25: Animals of the Continents (ages 9-14), 10 a.m.-12 p.m.
July 21-25: Fashion Fun (ages 9-14), 1-3 p.m.
July 22: Supervised Lampworking Lab (12+ w/ parent & adults), 10:30-11:30 a.m. or 12-1 p.m. July 24-Aug. 14: Intermediate/Advanced Pastel Painting (adults), Thursdays, 9:30 a.m.-12 p.m.
July 24-Aug. 28: Vibrant Landscapes in Oil (adults), Thursdays, 9:30 a.m.-12 p.m.
July 24-Aug. 14: Pottery Wheel Throwing Morning (adults), Thursdays, 9:30 a.m.-12 p.m.
July 24-Aug. 14: Pottery Wheel Throwing Afternoon (adults), Thursdays, 1-3:30 p.m.
July 28-30: Awesome Pennsylvania Animals & Plants (ages 12-17), 1-3 p.m.
July 28-30: Draw with a Cause (ages 12-17), 10 a.m.-12 p.m.
July 31-Aug. 14: Lampworked Glass Beads for Beginners (12+ with guardian), Thursdays, 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
July 31-Aug. 1: Cartoon Drawing (ages 9-14), 10 a.m.-12 p.m.
July 31-Aug. 1: Exotic Birds (ages 9-14), 1-3 p.m.

Bosler Library
158 W. High St., Carlisle
717-243-4642; boslerlibrary.org

July 8: Leadership 101, 6-7:30 p.m.
July 9, 16, 23: Senior Apple Users Workshop, 1-2 p.m.
July 15, 22, 29: Protecting Yourself and Your Money!, 5-6 p.m.
July 17: Cumberland County Waterways, 6-7 p.m.
July 19: Heart Health with the American Heart Association, 11 a.m.-12 p.m.
July 31: Learn About Basic Finance, 6-7 p.m.

Carlisle Arts Learning Center (CALC)
38 W. Pomfret St., Carlisle
717-249-6973; carlislearts.org

July 10, 17, 24, 31: Mosaic Lagniappe, Thursdays, 6-8 p.m.
July 12: Enamel on Copper, 10 a.m.-12 p.m.
July 15: Glass Fusing Workshop—Coasters and Suncatchers, 6-8 p.m.

Dauphin County Library System
dcls.org

July 8: Books on Tap at Rubber Soul Brewery, 6-7 p.m.

East Pennsboro Library
98 S. Enola Dr., Enola
717-732-4274; eastpennsborobranch.org

July 1: Read to Dogs (subject to therapy dog availability), 6-7 p.m.
July 3: Story Time and Craft with Miss Kellie (ages 3-6), 6:30 p.m.
July 8: Forgotten Friend Reptile Sanctuary, 1:30 p.m.
July 8: Family Game Night!, 4:30-7:30 p.m.
July 9: Drop-In Glowing Campfire Craft, 4:30-7:30 p.m.
July 15: Paper Quilling Craft (ages 10+), 6:30 p.m.
July 17: Story Time and Craft with Miss Kellie (ages 3-6), 6:30 p.m.
July 18: Morning Story Time & Craft with Miss Kellie (ages 3-6), 11:30 a.m.
July 22: West Shore Wildlife Center, 1:30 p.m.
July 23: Drop-In Tissue Paper Painting Flowers Craft, 4:30-7:30 p.m.
July 24: Drop-In STEM Play, 4:30-7:30 p.m.
July 25: Daytime Drop-In STEM and Craft, 11:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m.
July 31: Story Time and Craft with Miss Kellie (ages 3-6), 6:30 p.m.
July 29: Bingo for Books, 6:30-7:30 p.m.

East Shore Area Library
4501 Ethel St., Harrisburg
717-652-9380; dcls.org

July 3: Captain Curiosity—Found in the Stars, 5-6 p.m.
July 5: Figment Forge, 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
July 7: The Stitch Sitch, 2-3:30 p.m.
July 10, 17, 24, 31: Creative Kids Art Class with Art Association of Harrisburg, 10:30-11:30 a.m.
July 11: Internet Basics, 10:30 a.m.-12 p.m.
July 17: Sip & Speak, 3-4:30 p.m.
July 20: East Shore Cinema—The Maltese Falcon, 2-4 p.m.
July 25: Mario Kart Tourney, 6-8 p.m.
July 25: Cookbook & Kitchen Supply Swap, 12-4 p.m.

Elizabethtown Public Library
10 S. Market St., Elizabethtown
717-367-7467; etownpubliclibrary.org

July 1, 8, 15, 22, 29: Card Making Group, 5-7 p.m.
July 2, 9, 16, 23, 30: Homeschool Happening, 2-4 p.m.
July 3, 10, 17, 24, 31: Fiber Artists, 3-6 p.m.
July 5: Knitter’s Group, 10 a.m.-2 p.m.
July 7, 14, 21: Monday Game Club, 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
July 12: Fiber Artists, 10 a.m.-2 p.m.
July 14, 28: Touch a Truck, 10:30-11:30 a.m.
July 19: Book Discussion Group, 10 a.m.-12 p.m.
July 25: Family Bingo Fun, 10:30-11:30 a.m.
July 26: Board Game Meetup, 10 a.m.-2 p.m.

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

July 9, 23: Children’s Mansion Tour, 11-11:30 a.m.
July 12: Family Mansion Tour, 11 a.m.-12 p.m.
July 15: Yoga Nidra—Guided Relaxation, 5:30-7 p.m.
July 22: Introduction to Tai Chi, 6-7 p.m.
July 23: Meditation—Discovering Your True Inner Power, 6-7 p.m.
July 30: Introduction to West African Dance, 6-7 p.m.

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

July 1-31: Summer Reading Challenge
July 1: Curl Up with the Classics, 10-11 a.m.
July 2, 7, 9, 16, 21, 23, 28, 30: Baby & Toddler Story Time, 10-10:30 a.m.
July 2, 7, 9, 16, 21, 23, 28, 30: Children’s Story Time, 11-11:30 a.m.
July 2: Embroiderer’s Stitch In, 1-4 p.m.
July 2, 16: Zen Meditation, 2-3 p.m.
July 3, 17: Language at the Library, Beginner Spanish, 10-11 a.m.
July 3, 10, 17, 24, 31: Meditation to Calm the Mind, 12-12:30 p.m.
July 3, 10, 17, 24, 31: Fredricksen Knits, 1-4 p.m.
July 3, 10, 17, 24, 31: Language at the Library – French (all levels), 1-2 p.m.
July 3, 17, 31: Device Advice, 5-6:30 p.m.
July 3: Tween LEGO Bingo, 6-7:30 p.m.
July 4: Fredricksen Library Closed, 12-11:59 p.m.
July 5: The Puzzlers, 1-4:30 p.m.
July 7, 21: Fredricksen Writes, 7-8:30 p.m.
July 8: Forgotten Friend Reptile Sanctuary, 10:30-11:30 a.m.
July 8: Computer Basics, 2-3 p.m.
July 8, 22: Bridge for the Fun of It!, 6:30-8:30 p.m.
July 9: Device Advice, 10 a.m.-12 p.m.
July 9: Teen Crafternoon, 4-5:30 p.m.
July 10, 18, 25, 31: Pop-Up Storytime, 11-11:30 a.m.
July 10: Potato Post Newspaper Club, 3-4:30 p.m.
July 10: Gardening with Nature Series, 7-8:30 p.m.
July 11: Peaceful Poses Yoga for Adults, 9:15-10 a.m.
July 11: Peaceful Poses Yoga Storytime for Preschoolers, 10-10:45 a.m.
July 11: Indie & Foreign Film Fridays, 2-4 p.m.
July 11: Music of Woody Guthrie, 6:30-8:30 p.m.
July 13, 20: Pokémon Club, 3-4:30 p.m.
July 14, 28: Mock Interview Sessions, 10 a.m.-12 p.m.
July 14: The Puzzlers, 1:30-8:30 p.m.
July 15, 29: iPhone Basics Series, 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m.
July 15, 29: iPhone Basics Series, 6-7:30 p.m.
July 15, 22: Microsoft Office Basics Workshops, 10 a.m.-12 p.m.
July 16: Tween LEGO STEM Lab, 2-3:30 p.m.
July 17: Monarch Butterflies, 6-7 p.m.
July 19: Neurodivergent Adult Support Group (Autism, ADHD, ADD), 3-4:30 p.m.
July 21: Business & Career Center Open Classroom, 10 a.m.-12 p.m.
July 21: Genealogy Club, 12-1 p.m.
July 22: West Shore Wildlife Center, 10:30-11:30 a.m.
July 22: Genealogy Club, 5-6 p.m.
July 22: Tween LEGO Club, 6-7:30 p.m.
July 23: Teen Murder Mystery: Like, Oh My Gosh…A Murder, 6-8 p.m.
July 24: Disney Storytime, 9:30-10 a.m.
July 24: Journaling for Life, 6:30-7:30 p.m.
July 25: Solopreneur Roundtable—How to Create Impactful Social Media Content, 2-3 p.m.
July 25: Family Paint & Pix!, 6-8 p.m.
July 26: Paint with Us, 1-3 p.m.
July 27: Game Day for All!, 1-4:30 p.m.
July 28-31: Art Camp
July 28: Fredricksen Reads—“The Liars’ Club,” 7-8 p.m.
July 29: Microsoft Office – Excel Basics Workshop, 10 a.m.-12 p.m.
July 29: Mysteries of the Honeybee Unveiled, 6-7 p.m.

Gallery on the Square
Millersburg Area Art Association
226 Union St., Millersburg
Facebook: Gallery on the Square

July 12: Watercolor Class, 10 a.m.-12 p.m.
July 19: Mosaic Lady Bug/Bumble Bee, 11 a.m.-2 p.m.

George & Hettie Love Memorial Library
530 S. 29th St., Harrisburg
717-234-3934; dcls.org

July 8, 22: Coloring for Adults, 3:30-4:30 p.m.
July 19: Silent Book Club, 10:30-11:30 a.m.
July 24: Design Your Own Jigsaw Puzzle, 3:30-5:30 p.m.

Hershey Public Library
701 Cocoa Ave., Hershey
717-533-6555; hersheylibrary.org

July 1: Mysteries, She Wrote Mystery Book Group, 6:30 p.m.
July 1, 3, 8, 10, 15, 17, 22, 24: Penn State Hershey—Mothers & Babies, 10:15 a.m.
July 1, 8, 15, 22: 1, 2, Whee!, 10:15 a.m.
July 1, 3, 8, 10, 15, 17, 22, 24: Mothers & Babies, 10:15 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
July 1-31: Spice of the Month—Lavender
July 2, 9, 16, 23, 30: Community Crochet Night, 6-7 p.m.
July 3: Manada Conservancy Kids Program—Bees and Pollinators, 10:30 a.m.
July 3, 9, 16, 23: Furry Tales, 6:30 p.m.
July 3, 10, 17, 24: Teen Time for the Summer, 3 p.m.
July 3, 17: Hershey Quilters, 12:30 p.m.
July 7, 14, 21: Books and Babies, 10:15 a.m.
July 7, 14, 21: Messy Mornings, 11 a.m.
July 10: Fear of Commitment Book Group (Short Fiction Only), 6 p.m.
July 11, 18, 25: Book Buddies, 3 p.m.
July 12: Market on Chocolate, 9 a.m.-1:30 p.m.
July 12: Chess Tournament, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.
July 15: Tween Tuesday, 3-4 p.m.
July 16: Songs about Color, 2 p.m.
July 16: Power Pointers, 3 p.m.
July 17, 24: Walking Hershey, 9:30-10:30 a.m.
July 19: Cocoa Area Fiber Enthusiasts, 10 a.m.
July 19: LEGO Club—Summer Saturdays, 1 p.m.
July 25: Craft and a Movie—The Painting, 10 a.m.
July 26: Chess Club, 1 p.m.
July 31: Teen Time in the Reading Garden, 3 p.m.

Historical Society of Dauphin County
John Harris-Simon Cameron Mansion
219 S Front St., Harrisburg
717- 233-3462; dauphincountyhistory.org

Mansion and exhibit tours, Tuesdays to Fridays, 1 p.m., 2 p.m. and 3 p.m.

Horn Farm Center for Agricultural Education
4945 Horn Rd., York
717-757-6441; hornfarmcenter.org

July 17: Walk the Seasons—Summer 6:15-8:15 p.m.

July 19: A Gardener’s Guide to Soil Health, 9 a.m.-12 p.m.

Johnson Memorial Library
799 East Center St., Millersburg
717-692-2658; dcls.org

July 3: Fun with the Sun!, 5:30-6:30 p.m.
July 15: Midday Getaway, 12-1:30 p.m.
July 23: Upcycled Crafting, 6-7:30 p.m.
July 24: The Colorful World of Bugs and Insects with Ryan The BugMan, 10:30-11:30 a.m.

Joseph T. Simpson Public Library
16 N. Walnut St., Mechanicsburg
717-766-0171; simpsonlibrary.org

July 1, 8, 15, 22, 29: Rhyme Time in the Park, 9:30-9:50 a.m.
July 1, 8, 15, 22, 29: Tea and Stitches, 10 a.m.-12 p.m.
July 1, 8, 15, 22, 29: Toddler Time in the Park, 10-10:20 a.m.
July 1, 8, 15, 22, 29: Story Time in the Park, 10:30-10:50 a.m.
July 1, 8, 15, 22, 29: Storybook STEAM, 6-7 p.m.
July 3, 10, 17, 24, 31: Mah Jongg, 10 a.m.-1 p.m.
July 9: Mad About Mysteries, 7-8 p.m.
July 11, 25: Dungeons & Dragons, 6-8 p.m.
July 12, 26: Block Party!, 10:30-11:30 a.m.
July 12, 26: Puzzle Party, 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
July 16: Watch the Skies Book Club, 7-9 p.m.
July 17: Thursday Morning Book Club, 10-11 a.m.
July 17, 24: Play Scrabble!, 1:15-3:15 p.m.
July 19: Craft-A-Palooza, 10:30 a.m.
July 21: Monday Night Book Club, 7-8 p.m.
July 24: Tales for TAILS!, 6-7 p.m.
July 26: Trivia at Home—Broadway Music, 6-8 p.m.
July 28: Melted Crayon Butterflies, 1:30-2:30 p.m.

The LGBT Center of Central PA
717-409-5781; centralpalgbtcenter.org

July 2, 9, 16, 23, 30: Common Roads (ages 12-17), 6-8 p.m.
July 5, 12, 19, 26: Passageways, 2 p.m.
July 6, 13, 20, 27: Young Adult Group, 4 p.m.
July 12: QTPOC Advisory Group, 6-8 p.m.

Madeline L. Olewine Memorial Library
2410 N. 3rd St., Harrisburg
717-232-7286; dcls.org

July 2: Craft Characters, 2-3 p.m.
July 3, 10, 17, 24, 31: Becoming a Mom, with Hamilton Health, 10:30-11:30 a.m.
July 3, 10, 17: My Society—Written Proof, 4:30-6 p.m.
July 8: Internet Basics, 10:30 a.m.-12 p.m.
July 16: Sip & Speak, 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
July 22: Foraging Wild Edibles, 5:30-6:30 p.m.
July 29: Coloring for Adult, 3:30-4:30 p.m.

McCormick Riverfront Library
101 Walnut St., Harrisburg
717-234-4976; dcls.org

July 3: Captain Curiosity—Found in the Star, 11 a.m.-12 p.m.
July 12: Reading the Rainbow, 11 a.m.-12 p.m.
July 21: The Colorful World of Bugs and Insects with Ryan The BugMan, 2-3 p.m.

Middletown Public Library
20 N. Catherine St., Middletown
717-944-6412; middletownpubliclib.org

July 1, 8, 15, 22, 29: Storytime & Craft, 10:30-11:30 a.m.
July 1, 8, 15, 22, 29: Books, Plus!, 1-2 p.m.
July 1, 8, 15, 22, 29: Tales With T.A.I.L.S., 6-7 p.m.
July 2: Tom Crowl Ventriloquist, 10:30-11:30 a.m.
July 3, 10, 17, 24, 31: Teens & Tweens Gathering, 4:30-5:30 p.m.
July 3, 10, 17, 24, 31: LEGO Club, 6-7 p.m.
July 9: Clyde Peeling’s Reptile Land, 10:30-11:30 a.m.
July 10: Jon Sills Molina Graffiti Artist, 4:30-5:30 p.m.
July 12: Family Board Game Day, 10 a.m.-12 p.m.
July 16: Ryan The Bug Man, 10:30-11:30 a.m.
July 23: Critter Connections, 10:30-11:30 a.m.
July 30: Ridiculous Nicholas, 10:30-11:30 a.m.

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

July 9: An Evening with Ruth Ware and Sarah Pekkanen, 7-8 p.m.
July 10: An Evening with Chris Whitaker and Kate Baer, 7-8 p.m.
July 22: An Evening with Cassandra Khaw, 7-8 p.m.
July 29: An Evening with Jo Piazza and Lindsay Hameroff, 7-8 p.m.

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

July 5: First Saturday, 2-5 p.m.
July 12: Clay Critters, 1-4 p.m.
July 19: Paint and Be a Dreamcatcher, 12:30-3:30 p.m.
July 20: Cat and Dog Magnets, 1-2:30 p.m.

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

July 19: Free Civil War Book Talk—“George Graham Vest,” 2-3 p.m.

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

July 2: Pre-K Storytime, 10:30 a.m.

New Cumberland Public Library
1 Benjamin Plaza, New Cumberland
717-774-7820; newcumberlandlibrary.org

July 1-31: Famous Paintings Scavenger Hunt (ages 0-12)
July 1, 8, 15, 22, 29: Outdoor Storytimes, 10:30 a.m. (ages 2-5), 11:15 a.m. (ages 0-2)
July 2: Piece Seekers, 6-7:30 p.m.
July 2, 9, 16, 23, 30: Famous Artists Series, 3-4 p.m.
July 5, 12, 19: Take and Makes
July 5, 19: Book & Media Sales, 9 a.m.-3 p.m.
July 7: Moves and Groovers (ages 2-5), 10:30-11 a.m.
July 7, 14, 21, 18: Disney How to Draw Series (ages 6-12), 3-4 p.m.
July 8: Vintage Toy Day, 3-4 p.m.
July 8: Introduction to Genealogy Sources, 6:30-7:30 p.m.
July 8: Tales for Tails, 6:30-7:30 p.m.
July 10: Stitch Books (ages 13-17), 3:30-4:30 p.m.
July 11: Outdoor Sensory Playtime, 10:30-11:30 a.m.
July 12, 26: Teen Craft Kits
July 14: Musical Mornings, 10:30-11 a.m.
July 15: Create a Library Mascot (ages 6-12), 3-4 p.m.
July 16, 23, 30: iPhone Class for Adults, 2-3:30 p.m.
July 21: Messy Art Monday (ages 2-5), 10:30-11 a.m.
July 22: Paint Party, 3-4 p.m.
July 24: Teen Cooking Class (ages 13-17), 3:30-4:30 p.m.
July 25: Block Party, 10:30-11:30 a.m.
July 26: Crafty Crafters Club, 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
July 28: Kids Yoga, 10:30 a.m. (ages 2-5), 11 a.m. (ages 6-10)
July 29: Collaging is Cool! (ages 6-12), 3-4 p.m.
July 31: Family Fort Fest (ages 2-5), 10:30-11:30 a.m.

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

July 14-18: Bend The Rules: Machine Sewing (grades entering: 4-9), 1-4 p.m.
July 17: Mosaic Sunflower Class, 6-8 p.m.
July 21-25: Adventures In Watercolor (grades entering: 4-9), 1-4 p.m.

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

July 1-31: Stars, 2-2:30 p.m.
July 3-31: Earth, Moon & Sun, 1-1:30 p.m.
July 5, 12, 19, 26: Violent Universe, 3-3:30 p.m.
July 9: Summer Tree Identification with PA DCNR, 11:30 a.m.
July 11, 19: Storytime, 10:30 a.m.
July 11: Curiosity Kids—COLOR, 11:30 a.m.
July 16: Printing, 11:30 a.m.
July 17: Amusement Parks, 11:30 a.m.
July 18: Art Mediums, 1:30 p.m.
July 19: Travel by Land, Air and Water, 11:30 a.m.
July 23: Where Does Your Milk Come From?, 11:30 a.m.
July 25: Curiosity Kids—Observing Nature, 10:30 a.m.
July 25: Gyotaku—Fish Printing, 11:30 a.m.
July 26: Paper Cutting: Scherenschnitte, 10 a.m.
July 30: Chair Shop, 1:30 p.m.

Susquehanna Outfitters
333 S. Front St., Wormleysburg
717-503-0066; susquehannaoutfitters.com

July 2, 9, 16, 23: Wednesday Night Workout Paddles, 6-8 p.m.
July 10: Full Moon Float on the Susquehanna, 7-10 p.m.
July 13: Swatara Creek Float, 12:30-4 p.m.
July 27: Brewery Float, 1:30-4:30 p.m.

Wheel of Light Studio
3738 Peters Mountain Rd., Halifax
wheeloflightstudio.com

July 12: Faerie House Smokers, 11 a.m.-1 p.m.
July 15: Clay Faerie House Smokers, 6-8 p.m.
July 16: Glass Wind Chimes, 6-8 p.m.
July 25: Swedish Huck Weaving, 6-8 p.m.
July 26: Ceramic Toad Houses, 11 a.m.-12 p.m.

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

July 2, 9, 16, 23, 30: Wednesday Wellness Walks, 6:30-7:30 p.m.
July 11: Flower Walk—Still More Blooms, 10-11:30 a.m.
July 12: Forest Bathing—Nature-Based Mindfulness Walks, 10 a.m.-12 p.m.
July 12: Volunteer Work Day, 10 a.m.-1 p.m.
July 19: Creature Feature—Snapping Turtles (ages 4-6), 10-11 a.m.
July 24: Pound the Colors of Wildwood into Cloth, 6-8 p.m.
July 26: Kids Discover—Hummingbirds (ages 8-12), 10 a.m.-12 p.m.

William H. & Marion C. Alexander Family Library
200 W. Second St., Hummelstown
717-566-0949; dcls.org

July 3, 10, 17, 24, 27, 31: Creative Kids Art Class with Art Association of Harrisburg, 3-4:30 p.m.
July 21: The Colorful World of Bugs and Insects with Ryan The BugMan, 2-3 p.m.
July 26: Crafternoon, 11 a.m.-1 p.m.

Live Music

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

July 11: Terry Fator
July 12: The Buckinghams, The Association
July 13: Straight No Chaser
July 18: Eaglemania
July 25: Journey from the Heart

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

July 3, 10, 17, 24, 31: Open Mic Night
July 12: Pressing Strings, Traced in Air
July 18: The After Hours, Tucked In
July 19: Shea Quinn

Appell Center for the Performing Arts
50 N. George St., York
717-846-1111; appellcenter.org

July 18: Glenn Tilbrook

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

July 2, 16: Christine Purcell
July 3, 10, 17, 24: Andrea Britton
July 5, 19: Anthony Haubert
July 9, 23, 30: Tristin Lynee
July 11, 26, 31: Chris Emkey
July 12, 18: Roy Lefever
July 25: Dr. Nyce

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

July 19: Aretha Franklin—One Night with the Queen w/Keysha Toney

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

July 5: Greater Harrisburg Concert Band

Greater Harrisburg Concert Band
717-576-758; Facebook: Greater Harrisburg Concert Band

July 5: Sunset Music & Movies Series Concert at Fort Hunter

Gretna Music
gretnamusic.org

July 10: House concert with Maria Corley
July 13: The Gesualdo Six
July 20: First Listen, free performance by talented youth—Isabel Morales
July 20: Erinys Quartet
July 27: Free Jazz Workshop Service
July 27: First Listen, free performance by talented youth—Noah Spangler
July 27: Emmet Cohen Trio

Gretna Theatre
Mt. Gretna Playhouse
200 Pennsylvania Ave., Mount Gretna
717-964-3627; gretnatheatre.org

July 10-19: Million Dollar Quartet
July 26: Apprentice Cabaret

H*MAC
1110 N. 3rd St., Harrisburg
717-441-7506; harrisburgarts.com

July 18: Dayseeker, Colorblind, Ekoh
July 18: Lives Lost

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

July 3: Free Summer Concert at Lebanon Valley College
July 4: Free Summer Concert at Millerstown Park
July 5: Free Summer Concert at Reservoir Park, Harrisburg
July 6: Free Summer Concert at Summerfair Carlisle, Dickinson College

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

July 4: Sought Out City
July 5: Why Not Me
July 11: Gillian Smith
July 12: The Resistors
July 18: Emily’s ToyBox
July 19: Dance Fever
July 25: Vertigo Vultures
July 26: Into the Spin

Keystone Concert Band
145 E. Main St., First Floor, Mechanicsburg
717-329-7541; keystoneconcertband.com

July 12: Concert at St. Andrews in the Valley Episcopal Church, Harrisburg
July 21: Concert at Paxton Presbyterian Church, Harrisburg

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

July 17: “Star Wars—A New Hope” in concert
July 19: Aaron Tveit

Market Square Concerts
marketsquareconcerts.org

July 13: Peter Sirotin, Elias Goldstein, Sara Cyrus, Ya-Ting Chang
July 16: Peter Sirotin & Claudia Chudacoff, Elias Goldstein, Julian Schwarz, Lena Goodson, Ya-Ting Chang
July 19: Mendelssohn Piano Trio

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

July 19: Erich Cawalla & The Uptown Band

Pine Street Presbyterian Church
310 N. 3rd St., Harrisburg
717-238-9304; pinestreet.org

July 18: Maddie Felix

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

July 11: Jon & David Robinson

West Shore Theatre
317 Bridge St, New Cumberland
717-759-5464; www.westshoretheatre.org

July 20: MixTape Unplugged

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

July 12: Marc Broussard

XL Live
801 S. 10th St., Harrisburg
717-409-8975; xlhbg.com

July 2: The Disco Biscuits
July 11: The Rockett Mafia, The Martini Bros & Vedanta
July 12: Yelawolf, Michael Phillips
July 13: Umphrey’s McGee
July 17: Ballyhoo!, Cydeways, Beachfly
July 18: The Motet, Telula

The Stage Door

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

July 25: Summer Night Laughs Stand-up Comedy Series

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

July 2-31: “The Wizard of Oz”

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

July 9-Aug. 16: Popcorn Hat Players present “The Ugly Duckling”

Gretna Music
gretnamusic.org

July 25: “Lovebug” by FRWRD Dance Company
July 26: Noche Flamenca’s “Searching For Goya”

Gretna Theatre
Mt. Gretna Playhouse
200 Pennsylvania Ave., Mount Gretna
717-964-3627; gretnatheatre.org

July 12, 19: “Pete The Cat”
July 25: “Lovebug”
July 31-Aug. 3: “Hadestown: Teen Edition”

Harrisburg Improv Theatre
1633 N. 3rd St., Harrisburg
hbgimprov.com

July 4: Free Improv Mixer, Goose Parade, Bondfire Society, Barn Bitches
July 5: Level 1 Class Show, Solo Sleepover, Lil’ Stinkers, Ham Juice
July 6: Level 1 Class Show

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

July 31-Aug. 10: “Catch Me If You Can”

Keystone Theatrics
The Playhouse at Allenberry
1559 Boiling Springs Rd., Boiling Springs
717-258-3211; www.keystonetheatrics.com

July 11-27: “Newsies”

Middletown Public Library
20 N. Catherine St., Middletown
717-944-6412; middletownpubliclib.org

July 2: Tom Crowl Ventriloquist
July 30: Ridiculous Nicholas

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

July 11-27: “The Boys Next Door”

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

July 11-13: “Catharsis”
July 18: Sunset Music & Movie Series at Fort Hunter—“100 Years of Broadway”

If you like what we do, please support our work. Become a Friend of TheBurg!

Childcare Townhall Part 2: A Business-Led Discussion

June 27, 2025 | by Becca Zelner

Attendees listen to a speaker at the Childcare Townhall

On May 29, the Cumberland County Commission for Women hosted Childcare Townhall Part 2, focusing on the economic impact of inadequate capacity of childcare slots and how the business community can be part of the solution.

A survey by Care.com revealed that 1 in 5 workers have left a job due to inadequate childcare and another 1 in 5 would switch jobs for better childcare support from their employer. According to state data, Pennsylvania loses $6.65 billion annually in earnings, productivity and revenue due to childcare challenges—a cost that has more than doubled since 2018. Research shows that, for every $1 invested in high-quality early childhood education, the return to society can be as high as $13 in savings in special education, juvenile delinquency, health care costs and incarceration.

Townhall Part 2 was a sequel to a townhall also hosted by the Cumberland County Commission for Women, which occurred in the fall of 2024. Part 1 focused on the issues that childcare faces across the county, including poverty rates, the wages of childcare workers, and businesses losing employees due to difficult decisions of raising children or paying for childcare. Following Part 1, members of the commission were receiving real life stories from the public and attendees of the townhall. This sparked the idea for Townhall Part 2—a focus on the business perspective.

The Commission welcomed several key partners to the discussion, including Signature Staffing, Members 1st, Community Connections for Children, the Schuylkill Chamber of Commerce and the Harrisburg Regional Chamber/CREDC.

Pamela Hill, CEO of Signature Staffing, shared how she partnered with a local childcare center to support her employees when childcare became a barrier to work.
Mike Wilson, president and CEO of Members 1st, described a unique solution. His company partners with a nearby childcare provider just across the parking lot. Internal survey data shows this model has improved both productivity and employee retention.
Bob Carl Jr. (Schuylkill Chamber) and Ryan Unger (Harrisburg Chamber) acknowledged the need for chambers to step up and better support the business community in addressing childcare needs—especially in fast-growing regions like southcentral PA.

The standout presentation came from Katie Caples, director of Every Child Has Opportunity (ECHO) at Community Connections for Children in York County—a privately funded initiative administered in partnership with the York County Economic Alliance.

ECHO is supported by local funding partners including the J. William Warehime Foundation, Powder Mill Foundation, WellSpan Health, United Way of York County, the Kinsley Foundation and the York County Community Foundation. Together, they fund initiatives that:

Cover monthly stipends and Child Development Credential (CDA) for teacher aides enrolled in a teacher apprenticeship program, provide professional development for teachers serving as mentors, and provide salary reimbursements to providers with participating staff
Support start-up grants for individuals looking to become DHS Certified Childcare Providers through the Bloom Start-Up Child Care Forgivable Loan
Provide Innovation Grants for existing providers looking to increase their capacity and quality
Offer mini-grants for professional development and advocacy opportunities

Thanks to ECHO, York County has:

Hired 188 professionals in the last year
Enrolled over 850 new children in care programs
Supported nearly 3,000 children countywide

The townhall drew over 100 attendees and received news coverage. Most importantly, it sparked action. The Harrisburg Regional Chamber/CREDC invited the Commission to present at their June 5th Policy Pulse Series.

At the Policy Pulse meeting, the Commission urged local business leaders to explore launching an ECHO-like model in Cumberland County. A strong public-private partnership could help businesses meet workforce needs while supporting local families with affordable, high-quality childcare.

While the Cumberland County Commission for Women may be a volunteer group of passionate women, they have taken tangible, strategic steps toward addressing this crisis. Through countless hours of planning, advocacy and collaboration, they continue to live out their mission: making Cumberland County a better place for women and girls to live, work and thrive—and in doing so, helping the entire southcentral PA region grow stronger.

Becca Zelner, a principal at Greenlee Partners, is a member of the Cumberland County Commission for Women and currently serves as the vice chair. Greenlee Partners is a community publisher for TheBurg. This column is sponsored content.

If you like what we do, please support our work. Become a Friend of TheBurg!

Results Are In: See which stories, photos, designs garnered Keystone Awards for TheBurg this year

June 26, 2025 | by Lawrance Binda

It’s early summer, which brings us steamy weather, outdoors activities and, if you’re a journalist in Pennsylvania, the year’s most anticipated press awards.

This week, we learned that TheBurg received 26 individual and group Keystone Media Awards, a peer-reviewed contest sponsored by the Pennsylvania NewsMedia Association (PNA) Foundation. This year, PNA received 1,513 entries from 119 news organizations throughout Pennsylvania, with entries judged by working journalists in other states.

Our awards were the most we’ve ever received in a single contest. They cover a wide range of areas, including reporting, writing, photography, illustration and design and include the prestigious “Sweepstakes” award for the best performance statewide in our category. Earlier this year, TheBurg also won the “Sweepstakes” award in the PNA Foundation’s annual advertising contest.

But let us delay no further. As I have in previous years, I have all the winners listed below, with links so you can see what the judges deemed to be some of the best work done statewide in 2024. In some cases, we’re sharing just a sample of the entry, which included multiple stories in the submission.

REPORTING/WRITING AWARDS

News Beat Reporting: First Place, Maddie Gittens, Business Beat (2 of 5 submitted stories shown below)

Hidden Treasure: A downtown store has become a hub for helping the unhoused in Harrisburg

New Digs: Developers finish up long-awaited, much-needed affordable housing in Harrisburg

News Feature Story: First Place, Diane McCormick

Park Plan: A proposed Allison Hill park is generating neighborhood enthusiasm—along with some concern

News Feature Story: Honorable Mention, Diane McCormick

Backyard Battlefield: In the Harrisburg area, people are taking the climate fight into their own lands

Business or Consumer Story: First Place, Diane McCormick

Downtown Turnaround: Marking its golden anniversary, Harristown reflects on where it’s been, where it’s going

Business or Consumer Story: Maddie Gittens, Honorable Mention

Passion Pursuit: Harrisburg area businesswomen use experience, expertise to empower, uplift others

Editorial Writing: Lawrance Binda, First Place (3 editorials)

Burg View: Market in the Middle

Burg View: A Better LERTA

Burg View: A Modest (Tax) Proposal

Column Writing: First Place, Lawrance Binda (3 columns)

People Over Parking: Harrisburg’s parking obsession stands in the way of its progress

Arts Uplift: Harrisburg’s creative community deserves more appreciation, support

News Value: Is local news worth paying for?

Column Writing: Honorable Mention, Lawrance Binda (3 columns)

Historically Speaking: In Harrisburg, much has been lost–but much has been saved, too

Here to There: In Harrisburg, the times are a-changin’

Roads for Residents: It’s time to exit Highway Harrisburg

Personality Profile: Honorable Mention, Diane McCormick

A Doctor’s Life: Dr. Charles Crampton was one of Harrisburg’s most prominent Black citizens, until the system turned against him

Lifestyle/Entertainment Beat: First Place, Gina Napoli (2 of 5 submitted stories shown below)

Snacks & Hacks: Classroom parents are part adviser, part MacGyver

Hatching Wins: The “Penguin Project” puts special needs kids into the spotlight

Lifestyle/Entertainment Beat: Honorable Mention, Bob MacGinnes (2 of 5 submitted stories shown below)

The Painted Word: For the holidays—simple materials, extraordinary art

Have Art Will Travel: Welcome to Mt. Gretna, “Pennsylvania’s Playground”

Headline Writing: Lawrance Binda, First Place, Second Place and Honorable Mention (4 of 12 winning headlines shown below)

Downtown Turnaround: Marking its golden anniversary, Harristown reflects on where it’s been, where it’s going

Kringle’s Town in Linglestown: Hitch up the sleigh for the Lower Paxton Christkindlmarkt

Tail-blazers: Facility dog Kaia paved way for enduring care program at Penn State Health

Read & Knead: Enola shop pairs laps, cats and a good book

Excellence in Reporting on Diversity, Equity and Inclusion: Second Place, Diane McCormick, Molly Pavlovich, Maddie Gittens & Stuart Landon (2 of 5 submitted stories shown below)

HAAPI New Year: In 2024, you can stay local to celebrate the Year of the Dragon

Solace & Solidarity: Part of this month’s Good at Heart Festival, “Mary Speaks” offers a “classic story of a mother’s love”

Excellence in Reporting on Diversity, Equity and Inclusion: Honorable Mention, Alex Hayes, Maddie Gittens & Jolie Lloyd (2 of 5 submitted stories shown below)

Taste of Culture: A new restaurant serves elegance, Black culture in Harrisburg

Multicultural Mission: Market Square Presbyterian Church celebrates 50 years of its Korean Ministry, which has bonded members across cultures

ART/DESIGN AWARDS

Graphic/Photo Illustration: First Place, Rich Hauck

Graphic/Photo Illustration: Second Place, Rich Hauck

Graphic/Photo Illustration: Honorable Mention, Rich Hauck

Photo Story/Essay: First Place, Wesson Radomsky

Photo Story/Essay: Honorable Mention, Emmitt Dwight McKell

News Page Design: First Place, Meg Caruso (3 designs)

News Page Design: Honorable Mention, Mary McMillen

Feature Page Design: First Place, Meg Caruso (3 designs)

Feature Page Design: Second Place, Meg Caruso (3 designs)

If you like what we do, please support our work. Become a Friend of TheBurg!

Harrisburg School Board approves budget, raises taxes, while weighing post-receivership future

June 26, 2025 | by Maddie Gittens

Harrisburg School District Administration Building

For the first time in six years, Harrisburg’s local school board has approved a budget, and it includes a property tax hike.

Having exited state receivership last week, the Harrisburg School District returned to local control, giving power back to the board to pass the 2025-26 budget on Tuesday.

The $213.1 million budget includes a 2% tax hike, bringing the mill rate from 30.78 to 31.4 mills. The tax raise will likely be the first in a series of increases over the coming years as the district continues working on financial recovery.

Budget approval was a new action for the board post-receivership, as the state-appointed receiver, Dr. Lori Suski, previously held almost all approval power. Levying taxes was the only power the board held during the six years of state control. But this year’s tax decision found the board weighing unique circumstances as the district faces a post-COVID funding cliff and a five-year state monitoring period with requirements following receivership.

In May, district officials proposed an initial budget with a 2% tax increase. Tuesday’s final budget was about $1 million more than the original proposal, due to receiving federal funding that will be used for expenditures such as additional staff, HVAC upgrades, added security measures at schools, and other items.

The approved 2% property tax hike mirrored the original proposal by Chief Financial Officer Dr. Marcia Stokes, who explained that additional revenue is needed. The district has used all of its federal Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief (ESSER) funds awarded during the pandemic, is seeing impacts of inflation and is experiencing an unprecedented drop in valuations from taxable properties in the city, especially large commercial properties.

In response, Stokes recommended that the board make small, incremental tax increases over the coming years.

“Our community is facing a 20% increase in their county taxes this year that they’re factoring in because they’ve [Dauphin County] not done cumulative increases,” she said. “So, how can we can we, as a board, make sure part of all of our processes when it comes to setting budget parameters is to look at not only the budget year we are developing but what’s that impact two, three, five years from now.”

Ultimately, the board unanimously voted in favor of Stokes’ plan.

The district’s previous top administrator, former receiver Suski, now sits as the district’s chief recovery officer, tasked with monitoring how the district follows its Amended Recovery Plan post-receivership.

When the budget was proposed, and again on Tuesday, Suski stated that the 2% tax increase may not go far enough to satisfy the recovery plan and the Pennsylvania Department of Education (PDE). According to Suski, the district received a recommendation from outside financial advisory firm Public Financial Management (PFM) for a 4.81% tax hike, which was recently increased to a recommendation of a 6.3% increase. PFM made that adjustment after learning that property tax revenue had dropped substantially.

The board and district officials faced the challenge of having to make budget and tax determinations without knowing how much state funding they would get. The district frequently has to adopt its budget before the commonwealth finalizes its budget, which is typically late.

Stokes explained that PFM calculated its suggestion using much more conservative revenue projections, assuming that the district would receive no increase in state funding. Stokes made her revenue calculations based on an assumption that the district would receive half of proposed state funding increases.

“We, as a district that are so heavily reliant on state aid, we have to gamble a little bit,” Stokes said.

She noted that she felt confident that Harrisburg would receive additional funding from the state, as it is a historically underfunded district and has already been awarded over $1 million in extra federal funding. An large tax increase would be a burden on the community that could not be reversed once the district learns of its awarded funding, she said. Stokes also noted that she has factored in $4 million in budgetary reserves in case the district doesn’t receive assumed state grants, so that significant cost-cutting won’t be necessary.

“I fully understand that the assumptions that Dr. Stokes is making are based on what we have seen historically in terms of state funding. However, there is no guarantee, as we know, that we’re going to receive 50% of the governor’s proposed budget. I hope we do. I hope we receive more of it,” Suski said. “We need to consider the long-term implications of that decision.”

Suski previously shared that she wasn’t sure how PDE would respond to the district not adopting PFM’s recommendation for the tax hike, as Harrisburg is the first district in Pennsylvania to exit receivership.

“I don’t think the playbook’s been written yet,” she said.

School board members expressed the difficult decision-making position they were placed in.

“It’s kind of a tough gamble because it’s like if we don’t go by the 4.81% and there’s nothing put in play and then later on down the line this conversation comes back up and it’s like, well, we did not abide by what they presented,” board member Brian Carter said.

District officials agreed that, for the upcoming school year, the district will be fine with the 2% tax increase, but the future impact will remain to be seen.

“Yes, this is a calculated risk,” Superintendent Dr. Benjamin Henry said. “Next year, in particular, we are just going to have to continue to monitor–monitor what is going on. If we have any additional properties that we have to get refunds or even state funding, we have to monitor it. And we will have to adjust next year’s taxes.”

The 2025-26 budget includes expenditures such as salaries and benefits, instructional costs, debt payments and over $30 million in payments to charter schools.

Also on Tuesday, the board approved a $6.2 million Capital Plan Budget, which draws on grant sources to make infrastructure improvements in the district.

If you like what we do, please support our work. Become a Friend of TheBurg!

Weekend Roundup with Sara Bozich

June 26, 2025 | by Sara Bozich

Plan your weekend with my weekly list of things to do around Harrisburg and central PA!

What you’ll find ⤵️

For something new: Brews on the Breeches Inaugural Craft Beer & Spirits Festival at Allenberry on Saturday; Summer Night Laughs at The Abbey Bar | Hosted by Matt Moyer Worth noting: June “Budget Bash” SoMa Block Party is TONIGHT! Hyena Skits LIVE Sketch Show!! at Gamut on Saturday Things on my agenda this weekend: SoMa Block Party, berry picking

For your weekend planning

June 26: “Budget Bash” SoMa Block Party
2 Giveaways running through Saturday: a charity golf foursome and a charity music + food truck event
Excited to partner with Mason Dixon Distillery to share their Summer Party Contest
Feeling sluggish? Gameday Men’s Health can help – learn all about it here.
Market on Market is now running Tuesdays through fall!
See what else you missed on the blog

Below are more options for your weekend.

A Look Ahead

July 18: Strawberry Square Music Series fting Barkley Cove
July 18: 3rd in the Burg Jazz Jam Session at Pursuit
July 31: July SoMa Block Party
F ull SoMa Block Party calendar!
Join me for the Walk to End Alzheimer’s on Nov. 1!
Are you on my email list?
Submit your events for the Weekend Roundup

If you like what we do, please support our work. Become a Friend of TheBurg!

PA State Museum unveils major renovation plan; new observation area planned for former Archives tower

June 25, 2025 | by M. Diane McCormick

Andrea Lowery, executive director of the Pennsylvania Historical & Museum Commission (PHMC), at today’s press conference. (PAcast)

Usually, only state cabinet secretaries high in their office towers get a panoramic view of the Susquehanna River and mountains beyond.

That vista is about to be democratized, with a 16^th-story observation deck added to the Pennsylvania State Archives tower as part of a $55 million transformation of the Pennsylvania State Museum.

“This project really will be providing that backbone and that support for the 21^st century museum experience and creating a canvas wall to update half the exhibits in the museum,” said Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission Executive Director Andrea Lowery at a Wednesday press conference announcing the plan.

The sweeping scope of the project – labeled the circa-1964 museum’s first non-incremental renovation – is expected to close the museum from August 2026 until early 2029.

Harrisburg-area officials see the project fitting within a downtown renaissance. For thousands of Capitol visitors streaming across the street to visit a revitalized museum, “what an amazing synergy that will have,” said state Sen. Patty Kim.

State Rep. Nate Davidson shared that his phone background photo shows his daughter mimicking the “rawr” of a museum bear.

“It’s truly a special place for me and my family,” he said.

State government and its host city sometimes diverge in their priorities, Davidson added, but the museum project represents “an important moment” where the two intersect on “a shared dedication to the success of downtown Harrisburg.”

State Museum of PA 3rd Street lobby rendering (PAcast)

The renovation spans exhibits, HVAC, artifact storage, visitor accommodations, and much-needed elevator upgrades for a building that welcomes up to 100,000 visitors a year, about one-third of them school kids.

The plan emerged from the convergence of stakeholder engagement, surveys, a comprehensive plan on better serving the modern public, and a study on opportunities for reusing the vacated Pennsylvania State Archives tower.

Funding comes from a state Department of General Services 20-year bond issue. Previous capital funding was enough to upgrade the building’s envelope, accessibility, and safety code issues, but not the exhibits meant to tell the comprehensive story of Pennsylvania, said Lowery.

The new project upgrades both the museum experience and the building, said DGS Deputy Secretary for Capital Programs Greg Kirk.

“Ultimately, the project is about aligning a historically significant building with modern construction’s best practices, creating a safe, flexible, and efficient space that supports the museum’s mission for years to come,” he said.

State Museum of PA fifth floor terrace with Capitol view rendering (PAcast)

Pennsylvania’s midcentury modern museum has long hosted field trips and families exploring the state’s natural and historical landscape. Nearly half of the museum’s exhibits will be “reimagined” in stories, immersive displays, and interactive experiences, said Lowery.

But, she assured, “Mammal Hall, completely beloved, will remain the same.”

The project, designed by VITETTA, a DRG Architects company, Lemoyne, and Annum Architects, Boston, will include:

Welcome center and free introductory exhibit on Pennsylvania’s regions and identities.
Redesigned Curiosity Corner for children ages infant to 6.
New museum stores, including a “made in PA” shop showcasing Pennsylvania artisans.
Two 15-passenger elevators.
Climate-controlled storage for a growing collection, including space rededicated to sensitive textiles and metal artifacts in the empty Pennsylvania State Archives, vacated after construction of the new archives on Sixth Street, Harrisburg, in 2023. The previous layout crammed documents too close to the ceiling for fire suppression, Lowery said, but the building will now be made suitable for artifacts storage with installation of a fire suppression system, humidity controls, and insulation.
New gallery for traveling exhibits and artifact loans.
Fifth-floor event venue with a terrace overlooking the Capitol grounds, downtown Harrisburg, and the Susquehanna River. Lowery called it “premier event space” that will, in tandem with increased visitation, generate revenue for PHMC.

Contractor bids will be awarded this winter, and the first construction phase is slated to begin in the tower in spring 2026. The museum will remain open through July 2026 for a U.S. sesquicentennial exhibit, including a lock of George Washington’s hair and a covered wagon from the 1976 Bicentennial Wagon Pilgrimage to Pennsylvania.

The “marquee experience” of the tower’s observation floor, with new windows open to all directions, will attract visitors, said Lowery. The view will introduce multidisciplinary educational opportunities, including “the importance of waterways in Pennsylvania, the need to navigate the mountains as they expanded west, looking out to the city to talk about cities and planning within Pennsylvania, and looking back to the Capitol and having conversations about the framework of government and Pennsylvania’s role in developing the national framework of government.”

State Museum of PA and Tower at 3rd and Forster, exterior rendering, showing new observation area in former Archives building

PHMC’s “small but mighty staff” will spend the museum’s two-and-a-half-year closure to rework select exhibits, said Lowery. All elements of the plan are expected to be completed by 2033.

In an age of pushback against diversity and inclusion in history, the museum will keep pursuing its goal “to provide context and to make sure we’re serving all Pennsylvanians, collecting that history and interpreting that history,” she said.

“Our job is to help provide information pertaining to where we are today and where we’ll be tomorrow,” Lowery said. “I think that telling the history of all Pennsylvanians in an inclusive manner is our work that we’re supposed to be doing.”

State Museum of Pennsylvania is located at 300 North St., Harrisburg. “Art of the State 2025” runs through Sept. 14.

If you like what we do, please support our work. Become a Friend of TheBurg!

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Plan your weekend with my weekly list of things to do around Harrisburg and central PA!

What you’ll find ⤵️

For your weekend planning

A Look Ahead

Thursday

Friday

Saturday

Sunday

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