Bob’s Art Blog: Summer’s Art Compass Spins in all Directions

June 3, 2025 | by Bob MacGinnes

On a compass, the rose is the decorative or symbolic representation of directions. This summer, its needle is rotating in all directions: N-S-E-W. If we create an anagram from the directions, it spells NEWS! And that’s what this art blog is all about—art from all points around central Pennsylvania for the summer.

Perry County Council of The Arts

Headed to Newport, you will find the art haven, Perry County Council for the Arts (PCCA), located on the square. The borough of Newport is celebrating its special day this Saturday, June 7, with food trucks on the square from 11a.m. to 3 p.m. with a wagon full of activities. In addition, the borough is the home of Little Buffalo State Park, which plays host to great fishing, hiking, campgrounds and more. The PCCA headquarters reaches across art genres and mediums. Art guru Ariana Koch is excited to announce romantic painter, Valerie Moyer of Beaver Springs, opened her new exhibit, which runs through July 5. The show is “Rural Serenity,” reflections on canvas of known landmarks and idyllic scenes found throughout the countryside of Pennsylvania. From rolling fields to covered bridges, Valerie interprets realistic vignettes of simpler times in her poetic paintings. The artist reception coincides with Newport Day, running from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Travel to 1 S. 2nd St. to the PCCA and greet Valerie in person for a slice of rural Americana.

Painting by Valerie Moyer

Lebanon Picture Frame & Fine Art Gallery

There’s a hidden gem for art if you take a 45-minute scenic drive on Rt. 422 through Hershey, Palmyra, Annville, with the next stop being home to Lebanon Picture Frame & Fine Art Gallery. It’s found at 847 Cumberland St., so close to another Lebanon jewel, the legendary farmers market just a mere 400 feet away. The market is open Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays, also prime hours for the gallery. Owners Eric and Melody preview its summer showcase. For the months of June and July, local painter, Eva Bender, a longtime artist from Mt. Gretna’s art community, highlights her vibrant new series of watercolors in her signature style. She is a visual storyteller and began her career as a journalist with both writing and painting flowing into each other. The artist shared, “I can’t imagine not drawing and painting…it gives me a language—a way to express what I experience. Art deepens and clarifies; sometimes, it even saves your life.” Recently, she returned to her native Sweden to be closer to family. The exhibition’s opening is Friday, June 6, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., and is also able to be viewed during normal business hours now through July 26. Make a special day in Lebanon for shopping and art—that’s no bologna. Whet your appetite with art and then go grab lunch at the market.

Lebanon Picture Frame & Fine Art Gallery

Carlisle Art Learning Center (CALC)

CALC showcases art “In a Different Light” from the dramatically diverse perspectives of abstract painter Jill Peckelun and photographer Louise Thomas. Both explore the parameters of light, from the familiar to the yet-to-be-discovered frontiers of images imaginatively impressionistic. The opening reception to meet Jill and Louise is Friday, June 13, from 5:30 to 7 p.m.

“Three of a Kind” by Louise Thomas

CALC’s pop-up gallery takes place at the height of summer with “Perspectives” from photographer Eliseo Rosario, who expertly homes in on the quiet moments of life, the small and the marvelous, often missed and overlooked in our rush to get to the next big thing. Dr. Rosario’s wondrous exhibit opens on July 18 with a reception from 5:30 to 7 p.m., located at 38 W. Pomfret St., Carlisle.

“When You Stop by a Farmer’s Office” by Jill Peckelun

York Pops the Art Cork for Summer!
Venture Forth with Brenda Welty

Leave it to the ladies at 126-128 E. King St. in York to lead the way for art this summer. JoAnne Schiavone, Susan McDaniel and Karen Paust recently shared the adventure at Venture, now in its seventh year. This June and July, one of its featured artists, painterly photographer Brenda Welty, immersed in more than darkroom dialecticism, embraces the idea that the world is in a constant state of flux and change. Enveloping herself in the natural world, Brenda’s teenage years always had a camera in tow or wrapped around her neck as a necklace, a talisman for transpicuous tableau that was constantly unfolding before her eyes, always on the lookout for the next great shot. Stylistically, she crosses art borders mixing media in a potent concoction of creativity and collaboration.

“Where Trees Dream” by Brenda Welty

Experimentation in technique, incorporating processes and special effects, heighten the mood of meaning emanating from her lens. The artist shared, “Images collected and their interplay work together to create something larger than life…how a burst of light or the sway of the trees symbolize expressions of our experiences—how they evoke emotion as a reflection of life.” Her work has a luminous quality to it, reflecting light just so, bright, clear and glowing. Ms. Welty’s eye is honed to the subtle nuances of nature and how our experiences shape the images in our mind. “Maintaining integrity” is crucial to Brenda. Using archival ink and paper ensures the finished product is the very best, giving the client as close to the moment of the photo’s capture. “Where Trees Dream” is one such shining example of introspective incandescence. Images run from sumptuously saturated with color while others are dramatically diffused, creating their own brilliance one frame at a time. One can picture the glow of golden glimpses gleaming once before a teenager and now as a photographer of polish and poise.

Also this summer, Venture open a new show, “Sand & Sea,” featuring images by Claire Stoner, Gretchen Levin and Susan Darling. The exhibit opens June 6 for York’s First Friday.

Birds Rule the Roost at Hive

Speaking of Hive at 126 E. King, it will be soaring to new heights for summer with “Aviary IV” taking flight and landing for June and July. Susan Scofield, owner/proprietress, will be counting the flock to fill Hive’s rafters with all sorts of art mediums featuring fine feathered friends flying in from hither and yon as her birds will be ruling the roost starting this Friday, June 6, with its grand opening. Susan has her hand in so many art events based in York that she squawked at me to share…June 13, 4 to 6 p.m. Pre-Pride Pop Off gallery 4 to 6, Radiant Spectrum Stroll shop & stroll with special treats at each stop. Continuing on the 13th from 6 to 9 p.m., the official Pride Pop Off party in Royal Square Mural Park, the official opening party for York Pride weekend. Then from June 13 to 21, York Arts Week throughout the city. On June 21 fine art, fine craft, fine spirits festival on King Street. Also, on June 21, Make Music Day throughout the city. Five locations in Royal Square. First Fridays of June, August, September, October—Firefly Night Market on King Street.

Fossil Me This @ SAM

Lastly, the compass spins back to Harrisburg for a blockbuster and its five-month run at the Susquehanna Art Museum. The thought-provoking exhibit, “Future Fossils,” posits the query, “If life as we know it were to come to a sudden stop, what would archeologists find decades from now?” Pardon the pun but I really “dig the (w)hole” concept—one moment in time frozen for eternity. An original exhibit of art is something rare indeed. Susquehanna Art Museum breaks new ground with “Future Fossils” as artistic archaeologists from around the globe unearth treasures of modern-day life frozen indelibly. The exhibit explores a concept outside the box, as “conjured relics of today” reveal the fascination that our society clings to in its daily appropriation of necessary items. Cell phones, tablets, CDs, refrigerators and car parts are all cultural totems that mankind feels they cannot live without. Our world as we know it today operates behind the curtain through algorithmic avatars, diabolical despots and robotic raconteurs, all playing their part. However, front and center, the exhibit skillfully examines everything from weaponry, space exploration and even clothing, which are represented by skeletal sneakers, coming into crystal clear clarity, dramatically displayed throughout the Lehr Gallery. But, in the end, are physical manifestations of things what we want to be remembered for–when technological tools take priority over humans? Or will it be its polar opposite: life-altering medical breakthroughs with cures for the ills of the world, when no one goes hungry, and the entire planet lives in peace and harmony. “Future Fossils” makes us take pause, considering what we purchase will one day be discarded and forgotten—as obsolete as yesterday’s paper.

“Future Fossils” just opened to the public and runs through Nov. 2 in the Lehr Gallery at 1401 N. 3rd Street in Harrisburg.

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Harrisburg School District set to exit receivership, return to board control after six years

June 2, 2025 | by Maddie Gittens

Harrisburg High School-John Harris Campus

The Harrisburg School District is set to regain local control this month.

The Pennsylvania Department of Education (PDE) announced on Monday that, effective June 17, the district will exit state receivership, imposed six years ago to provide oversight and direction for the then-distressed district.

Harrisburg has been under state oversight since June 2019, when a Dauphin County judge determined that PDE would take over the district. Dr. Janet Samuels was then appointed as the receiver for the district, with Dr. Lori Suski taking her place in 2022, after Samuels resigned. Under receivership, the school board only has the power to levy taxes. The receiver has the sole vote on all other matters.

At the three-year mark, in June 2022, when the receivership was set to expire, the court extended receivership for another three years, until June 2025. At that time, district officials and board members were in favor of remaining under state control, as they made progress toward financial and academic goals.

Now, six years in, the district will move back to board control, with elected board members voting on district matters.

PDE Acting Secretary Dr. Carrie Rowe made the decision to end Harrisburg’s receivership, which was announced on Monday. Initially, Suski and district officials expected a county judge to rule on the matter in mid-June. However, they were recently made aware that the education secretary makes the decision whether or not to petition for an extension of receivership, Suski told TheBurg. PDE will not file a petition in the court.

Rowe will join Sen. Patty Kim, Rep. Dave Madsen (D-104), and district officials to announce the exit at a press conference on Tuesday at 10 a.m.

Recently, the district shared its proposed 2025-26 budget, which includes a 2% property tax hike. The district is slated to adopt its budget on June 24, at which time receivership will be over, and the board will be tasked with voting on the budget and tax levy.

At a previous board meeting, Suski said that she was in favor of an even higher tax increase of 4% to meet the district’s Amended Recovery Plan. However, several board members and district officials expressed concern over the burden that would impose on taxpayers. Still, Suski said that a lower increase may not satisfy the recovery plan and could leave the district vulnerable to PDE forcing them to re-enter receivership.

The ultimate decision on taxes will be up to the board directors.

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Burg Review: Emotions dig deep, laughter rings out in “The Colored Museum”

June 1, 2025 | by Gina Napoli

[Voice over the loudspeaker in a brightly lit museum.] George C. Wolfe’s “The Colored Museum” is a satirical collection of vignettes that challenge stereotypes surrounding the African American experience. Sankofa African American Theatre Company and Open Stage partner to take you on a museum tour without ever leaving your seats.

Let the actors punch your admission ticket, taking you beyond the velvet ropes. You’re going to be poking fun at old Black stereotypes while confronting them. (Old = 1619 to 1986, from the time the first ship arrived in Virginia to the year Wolfe authored the play.)

Co-directed by Sharia Benn and Johntrae Williams, “The Colored Museum” presents 11 vignettes where the exhibits come to life – highlighting Black themes in ways that are provocative, full of social commentary, controversial and dressed to the nines in the finest costumes from the 20^th century (costume consultant, Rachel Landon). Although the themes were groundbreaking for 1986, I’d like to think that pop culture has progressively mainstreamed Black topics to the point that lighter travelers are more aware, more conversant than in years past. That isn’t to say you won’t find anything shocking. You will. I did.

Please follow me. We’re walking, we’re walking, aaannnd pause here.

On our first tour stop, we meet Miss Pat (Weimy Montero-Candelario), a bossy stewardess who takes us aboard a slave ship. As she shackles each passenger, she shouts out instructions: no rebelling, no drumming, no talking to each other, no worshiping God. Montero-Candelario brings an authoritarian spitfire energy to Miss Pat, reprising this same role for the play’s finale. Although she plays several characters throughout the vignettes, the standout performance is of Lawanda in “The Hairpiece,” along with Benn as Janine. Together those gossipy ladies make The Woman (Melinda Anderson) think twice about her beauty routine.

Then Aunt Ethel (Benn), one of the shackled passengers, sings us a jazzy ditty on her cooking show, where she cooks us up some… ssh, I’m not gonna spoil your supper. Benn also convincingly slips into a younger character’s pinafore to portray young Normal Jean Reynolds in “Permutations,” a solo piece I found most unsettling, and Mama in “The Last Mama-on-the-Couch Play,” a meta piece fit for “Masterpiece Theatre.” Marcus McGhee, Johntrae Williams, Anderson and Montero-Candelario add to the hilarity that is Mama’s family dynamic.

Now, we walk to the Fabulous Wing of The Colored Museum. McGhee and Amandine Pope describe what it’s like to model for Ebony Magazine. They may be fabulous, but they feel objectified. McGhee regales us as the equally fabulous Miss Roj, a baggage-addled drag queen looking to scrap with someone in the parking lot of the nightclub. Pope again becomes fabulous in another nightclub act, LaLa “Amazing” Grace. Pope’s an unreliable narrator entertainer whose will exceeds her skill. In mottled French accent she lifted somewhere from her self-important fantasy world, she talks about her fellow singers of mixed descent being rejected in the United States. Montero-Candelario plays her cowering maid, stirring the pot with Lala by bringing her tattle-tale correspondence on silver platters. Kudos to Flo’rance (Te’Sean Richardson) for being the creepiest character in all 11 skits, followed closely by Journie Williams.

Although Johntrae Williams appears in many of the funny vignettes, his star shines brightest with his poignant performances in the Self-Reflective Wing of “The Colored Museum.” As Junie Robinson in “Soldier with a Secret,” he reveals startling confessions of dark things most soldiers won’t talk about. And in “Symbiosis” as The Man, he becomes an unlikely combination of vulnerable and violent toward The Kid (McGhee), in a relatable story about letting go. McGhee delivers an earnest rendition of “My Girl,” carrying enough emotion to bring back his scene partner’s youth.

No matter how the culturally charged content may affect you and your loved ones (over age 16, please), I hope you will be open-minded enough to let this play in, to let potentially uneasy ideas reside with you, to consider how they make you feel. If parts of this play make you uncomfortable, that means you are willing to challenge your beliefs about certain paradigms, to claw under the surface of stereotypes, and to reflect on those ideas with empathy and respect. Benn, also the executive artistic director of Sankofa African American Theatre Company, asserts that, “It is in these moments of ‘squirm’ when the laughter fades and the truth lingers, that provocative transformation begins.” You may even be able to mentally add other topics to form a more complete theme list, from 1987 to the present.

Perhaps you are uncomfortable laughing in public about things that are maybe a little touchy. You’re not a bad person if you laugh – at least I hope not, because most of the vignettes are hilarious. If you just like to laugh, usually at inappropriate times, and you aren’t offended very easily, then come sit by me. Hopefully if we laugh together – loudly, publicly – then we can de-sensitize otherwise raw topics, taking the stinger out.

That’s the end of our tour. Please be sure to visit the gift shop on your way out, or the bar at intermission. I think you’ll find “The Colored Museum” worth the price of admission.

“The Colored Museum,” a production of both Sankofa African American Theatre Company and Open Stage, runs through June 19. For more information, check their website at https://www.openstagehbg.com/shows/thecoloredmuseum. Image courtesy Open Stage/Sankofa.

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The Week that Was: News and features around Harrisburg

May 30, 2025 | by Lawrance Binda and Maddie Gittens

Juelz Davenport

The June issue of our magazine just came out this week, which means it’s time for summer fun! Check out all the area has to offer by reading our many feature stories. Before you grab a copy, catch up on our news reporting from the week, below.

Asoul Ramen offers diners a unique and wide array of menu options, as well as an aesthetic experience. Read more about what the Camp Hill restaurant has to offer, in our story.

Camp Hill received “Bee City USA” status, our magazine story reported. The city, as well as nearby Dickinson College, have continued to increase efforts to preserve pollinators.

City Council approved a zoning change for a Midtown apartment project, marking a potential step forward for developer GreenWorks Development, our online story reported.

Dan Miller, a Democratic candidate, lost to incumbent Wanda Williams in the Harrisburg primary election for mayor, but won enough Republican write-in votes to stay on the ballot. Miller said that he would consider whether or not he will run on the Republican ticket, our online story reported.

Harrisburg-native Julian “Juelz” Davenport, a local poet, will host free writing workshops for teens, our online story reported. The classes, held in partnership with the Dauphin County Library System, will help students brainstorm, write and record spoken-word poetry.

Passerine in Lancaster offers creative, fresh dishes and was included in the 2024 Restaurant List, the New York Times food writers’ top 50 favorite U.S. restaurants. Find out more, here.

Sara Bozich has rounded up all of the best events happening this weekend in Harrisburg, here.

Small businesses need your support, especially in this economic climate says our publisher.

Sonya McKnight, a former Harrisburg judge, was sentenced to over a decade in prison, our online story reported. McKnight was found guilty by a jury last month of shooting her ex-boyfriend in the head while he slept.

Thrive Housing Services plans to open a pay-what-you-can restaurant in Midtown, our reporting found. The proposed site is the former site of Heartshine, which had also proposed a similar restaurant concept for the space, but never completed it.

Zeroday Brewing Co.’s Broad Street Market Outpost is the perfect place to find a cross section of the Harrisburg community. In his column, our editor share his experience at the popular gathering place.

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Burg Review: Sharp tongues and acid-washed jeans, all part of the fun in Gamut’s “Love’s Labour’s Lost”

May 30, 2025 | by M. Diane McCormick

“Love’s Labour’s Lost” cast

“We are wise girls to mock our lovers so.”

Maybe. Maybe not, as the lovers learn in “Love’s Labour’s Lost,” on stage from Gamut Theatre Group’s 32^nd annual Free Shakespeare in the Park, running through June 14 at Harrisburg’s Reservoir Park.

It’s a fast-paced romp through the timeless battle of wits between genders, packed with ill-timed vows, enough tongue-twisting repartee to fill three “Gilmore Girls” episodes, and the masks, literal and figurative, that we wear for love.

Director J. Clark Nicholson updates Shakespeare’s 17^th-century country of Navarre to the University of Navarre in the 1980s. The campus is packed with big hair and Brat Pack icons — our heroine in a Molly Ringwald hat. Frat boys in Chuck Taylors. A preening visitor in pink-tinged, rolled-sleeve Sonny Crockett sport coat. A Valley Girl in pleated, acid-washed jeans (how I miss them).

Bear with me on the plot summary. Shakespeare’s King of Navarre (Brendan Wolf) is a sort of fraternity president, pressuring three frat brothers into vowing to give up women while they study with him for three years.

Surprise. Four women appear, in the form of a French princess and her sorority sisters, there to negotiate a land deal. Complications ensue as characters high-born, low-born, and in between conspire and connive.

The three friends are led by Berowne, played by Alex Winnick. Tapping into his character’s quick wit and sharp reasoning, Berowne commands his scenes and embodies the “merry madcap lord” whose every jest is a word and every word a jest.

Berowne initially laments the anguish of love but convincingly transforms into the one leading his bros into breaking their hasty vows of abstinence. When Berowne unmasks the fecklessness of his compatriots – “Now step I forth to whip hypocrisy” – only to be confronted with his own, Winnick deftly handles the justification to abandon their doomed pledge.

“Young blood,” he insists, “doth not obey an old decree.”

In this play, love interests are also foils, and Berowne fences gracefully with the sprightly Hope Mackenzie as Rosaline. “Love’s Labour’s Lost” is considered one of Shakespeare’s punniest plays – regrettably inscrutable to 21^st-century ears, but delivered brightly enough by a well-rehearsed cast that we get the gist. Lovers must spar before they spark.

Nicholson and the production team weave nostalgic odes to the 1980s throughout the goings-on. A boombox carried on a shoulder. A dullard campus security guard, aptly named Dull, fiddling with a Rubik’s cube. Interval music that seems incongruously contemporary – but wait. That’s an acoustic cover of “Eye of the Tiger.”

When the men disguise themselves as “Muscovites” – as in, visitors from distant Moscow – they appear, of course, in voluminous Red Army coats and perform a hilariously goofy Russian dance.

Standouts in the large cast include Elizabeth Hood as the princess, growing into her role from spunky expatriate to the regal voice of wisdom among the headstrong lovers. Joe Regan adds appeal to Costard, the Shakespearean clown, by giving him a jaunty self-confidence, even when he makes boneheaded mistakes.

Kaylee Kramer as Boyet delights in her role as a sorority-mom type, guardian of her girls and cunning spy uncovering the men’s plot to – well, I’m still not sure what that disguised-as-Muscovites scene was supposed to mean, but it’s great fun for a summer night under the stars.

And, just like other Shakespeare works, there’s a play within the play. Here, the non-lovers present “The Nine Worthies,” but their play doesn’t hold up as well as the silly “Pyramus and Thisbe” of “A Midsummer Night’s Dream” or the searing plot device of “Hamlet.” We just aren’t familiar with the jokes ringing around the heroes of ancient times, but the cast’s antics and Shakespeare’s own bits for bad actors provide a few chuckles.

This is the scene, too, where the pompous School Master Holofernes – played by Brennen Dickerson with delicious affectation, which he would pronounce “ah-feck-tah-see-on” — gets his comeuppance, even if it comes across more like extended bullying by the cool kids.

Where Shakespeare ended his play with a wistful ditty on the seasonal course of love, Nicholson gives his cast the equally appropriate “No One is to Blame,” the ‘80s Howard Jones anthem on the futility of love. Shakespeare himself would nod in approval at the idea that “you can dip your foot in the pool, but you can’t take a swim,” as he dispatches his lovers to live amicably ever after.

“Love’s Labour’s Lost,” Free Shakespeare in the Park, Gamut Theatre Group, performed at Reservoir Park, 100 Concert Drive, Harrisburg. The lovers spar through June 14. Bring a chair or blanket to sit on the hillside. Attendance is free, but donations are welcome. For information, visit www.gamuttheatre.org/fsip.

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Weekend Roundup with Sara Bozich

May 29, 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: The SoMa Block Party series is BACK starting TONIGHT! A new exhibit opens at Susquehanna Art Museum: Future Fossils (member opening Friday; public opening Saturday)

Worth noting: It’s definitely strawberry season …

Things on my agenda this weekend: SoMa Block Party, dinner with a girlfriend, Pinewood Derby, maybe a new local winery visit

For your weekend planning

WIN tickets to the Dig My Earth Fest on June 6-7 in Adams County
WIN tickets to Proudly PA! Fest on June 14 at Fort Hunter Park
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

TONIGHT: SoMa Block Party | May 2025 – season kick-off!
June 7: SoMa PinFest!! Block Party + Arcade in SoMa – FREE!
June 14: Proudly PA! in Fort Hunter Park
June 20: Le Ghast headlines the Strawberry Square Music Series for 3rd in the Burg
June 20: Juneteenth SoMa Block Party
Full SoMa Block Party calendar!
Are you on my email list?
Submit your events for the Weekend Roundup

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Come Together: In Harrisburg, party unity takes on new meaning

May 29, 2025 | by Lawrance Binda

Illustration by Rich Hauck

It’s just after 1 p.m. on a Friday, and there isn’t an open barstool at the Zeroday Brewing Co. “Outpost” in the Broad Street Market.

This doesn’t surprise me at all.

I have lunch at the market regularly, and, passing through, notice this is usually the case. In fact, often, it’s standing room only at the Outpost, even on a weekday, even at midday.

But it’s not just the quantity of people that’s striking. The makeup of the crowd is unique for this city. Young, old, rich, poor, groomed, grizzled—it’s all there, a fascinating cross-section of life here.

As I’ve written before in this space, I regard the Broad Street Market as the crossroads of Harrisburg, a place where people of every background come together to eat, shop, share and socialize. In that spirit, you might regard the Outpost as the crossroads of the crossroads.

I don’t usually imbibe during the day, which I blame (or credit) on my demanding job, so don’t tend to stop for an afternoon pint. But I’m there almost every 3rd in The Burg, when the Outpost is open late, with people, post-work, gathered several layers deep around the bar, breaking off into little groups to chew over whatever: the city, the country, sports, jobs, spouses, vacations.

On any given 3rd in the Burg, you may spot the neighborhood guy chatting up the state legislator, the barber whispering to the banker, the artist making a toast. An Amish gent wades into the crowd, and here come state workers with lanyards around their necks. Several young people squeeze in, passing their IDs over to Matt, the Outpost’s manager, mixologist and jolly organizer of chaos.

“This is the melting pot of Harrisburg,” one patron told me recently, halfway through a tall pour of a Market Research IPA. “This is where everyone comes together.”

I agree. Harrisburg has a reputation for being rather segregated based on race, class, ethnicity, age, etc. But not at the market and, emphatically, not at the Outpost.

I believe that there are only a few other places in Harrisburg that offer such a welcome sense of unity. One is seasonal, and that season is now.

If you stand at the corner of 3rd and Market streets, looking towards Chestnut, you may be surprised at what you see.

This is a quieter, less-trodden slice of downtown Harrisburg, a block with renovated storefronts and a nicely designed streetscape where, once the weather warms, the city comes out to play.

Once a month or so, Harristown closes down this block of SoMa (South of Market) and, along with Sara Bozich, hosts summertime block parties that stretch into the night. This month, there are actually two—one on June 20 in conjunction with Juneteenth and the second just six days later.

The festive atmosphere is like that inside the Broad Street Market for 3rd in The Burg, only larger, more family-forward and, well, outdoors. Sure, there’s food and beer, but also a band, goods for sale, kids’ stuff, games.

In any case, the block parties similarly attract a broad section of the Harrisburg community, folks from every walk of life, joining together for the sole purpose of having a good time. People even venture in from across the river to attend, so we can add “suburbanite” to the demographic mix.

There are a few other places that attract such a blend of the Harrisburg community. Riverfront Park and City Island immediately come to mind. Going for a walk or run or ride on a warm summer day, you may encounter people of all backgrounds, ages and even nationalities.

I don’t know—maybe I’m unusual, or just old.

I remember a time, before social media and streaming, when people eagerly ventured out to gather, meet, connect and celebrate.

At least in Harrisburg, you can still find that spirit, if you know where to look. I recommend the Outpost during 3rd in The Burg or a SoMa block party this summer, two joyful places where a sense of community abides, where having fun together is the only goal.

Lawrance Binda is publisher and editor of TheBurg.

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June Publisher’s Note

May 29, 2025 | by Lawrance Binda

As a small business owner, I’ve felt lately like I’m living in a funhouse.

Only, it’s no fun.

A few months ago, the menace of huge tariffs hung over us, threatening our business, as most newsprint and sheet paper is imported from Canada. Then, to my surprise, that tariff threat suddenly disappeared—at least for the time being.

One day it’s up, the next it’s down, and who knows what tomorrow holds? And round and round she goes.

So far, we’ve lucked out, but many of our small business friends and neighbors have not. They’re bearing the brunt of this country’s trade war against the world, putting their very futures at risk.

Five years ago, during the pandemic, I used this space to urge our readers to shop locally to ensure the survival of our area’s wonderful small businesses. I’m doing so again, this time because the U.S. government’s own trade policies have taken something incredibly difficult—operating a successful small business—and made it even harder.

Go into your favorite local business and ask if they’re impacted by tariffs. You may be surprised by the answer, as I have been. So many products, goods, foods, etc., are imported, and small businesses simply cannot pivot overnight to alternative suppliers, if they exist at all.

One day, I presume, the U.S. will see its way out of this chaos and return to a sane, stable trade policy, so that businesses have predictability and the ability to plan long-term. Until then, it’s up to us to ensure that our locally owned stores, shops and restaurants survive, even if selection is limited, even if prices are higher.

As you flip through our June issue, you’ll see that many small businesses support TheBurg, and we, in turn, support them. Small business is the lifeblood of any community. You’ll discover so many here, in these pages, which are worthy of your patronage anytime—but especially now.

Lawrance Binda

Publisher/Editor

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June News Digest

May 29, 2025 | by Lawrance Binda and Maddie Gittens

Incumbent Mayor Williams Re-Nominated

Harrisburg voted to retain its leadership in city hall last month, as incumbent Mayor Wanda Williams narrowly claimed the Democratic nomination.

With all precincts reporting in the municipal primary, Williams won 1,725 votes, compared to 1,642 for city treasurer Dan Miller, who came in second in the field of five.

Rounding out the ballot, City Council member Lamont Jones claimed 1,092 votes, community activist Tone Cook Jr. received 312 votes and repeat candidate Lewis Butts won 90 votes.

The race came down to the wire, with the final precincts giving Williams the edge. At a victory party, Williams described herself as “elated” by her win.

“They wanted me back in office, and I’m here and I promise to do everything I can to make this city better,” she said.

Williams is heavily favored to win re-election in the November general election, as no Republicans ran in the primary. It would be her second four-year term.

The race for Harrisburg City Council was hotly contested, with 13 candidates competing for four, four-year seats.

In the end, Democratic incumbents Ausha Green, Jocelyn Rawls and Ralph Rodriguez all prevailed, with challenger and former council member Robert Lawson taking the nomination for the one open seat.

The Democratic challengers who fell short include Leslie Franklin, Lisa Glenn, Sharon Horne, Elyse Irvis, Willie Ross, Rich Sanders, Lori Saulisbury, Karl Singleton and Basir Vincent. Singleton died in March, but his name remained on the ballot. No Republicans ran in the council race.

The primary race for school board was not contested.

Democratic incumbents Roslyn Copeland, Danielle Robinson, Brian Carter and Jaime Johnsen all won nomination for four, four-year seats, while Annie Hughes was nominated for the lone two-year seat. No Republicans filed to run, meaning the incumbents are likely to win new terms in November.

For city controller, Karen Balaban was uncontested for the Democratic nomination. No Republicans competed for the seat.

Dauphin County has elections for several row offices this year.

For prothonotary, incumbent Matt Krupp of Harrisburg ran uncontested in the Republican primary, as did Harrisburg resident Antonio Carreno in the Democratic primary. They’ll compete in the general election.

The clerk of courts primary was competitive, with Tina Nixon defeating Timothy Pianka, both of Harrisburg, for the Democratic nomination. John McDonald won the Republican nomination running uncontested.

For county coroner, long-time incumbent Graham Hetrick took the Republican nomination running uncontested, as did John Harris Jr. for the Democratic nomination.

The primary results are considered preliminary until certified by the Dauphin County Bureau of Elections. The general election is slated for Nov. 4.

School District Weighs Tax Hike

Harrisburg property owners may see a tax increase in the coming year, as the school district seeks to make up for lost funds.

Harrisburg School District officials proposed a 2025-26 budget last month, while weighing a property tax increase that, they say, is needed to balance a budget impacted by the post-COVID-funding fiscal cliff.

Chief Financial Officer Dr. Marcia Stokes presented a proposed $211.8 million budget, a $5 million decrease from the 2024-25 budget, along with a 2% property tax hike.

The proposal would raise the tax rate from 30.78 to 31.4 mills. Even though the tax would increase, Stokes said that homeowners who qualify for the state’s Homestead Exemption would likely see a decrease on their bill, due to increased relief funds and fewer program participants.

Stokes explained that a tax increase is needed to combat less projected local revenue, due to a drop in taxable properties in the city, as well as less projected federal revenue.

School board directors questioned what would happen if they decided not to raise taxes. Stokes said that the district would likely have to make budget cuts and that the school district would face challenges in the long run, as it needs to begin raising taxes to maintain a healthy, balanced budget.

“From my professional standpoint, small incremental increases are the way to go, because they are predictable for our homeowners,” Stokes said. “They are something that’s slowly building the revenue stream that we have to maintain.”

However, district receiver Dr. Lori Suski wasn’t in complete agreement with Stokes about the tax hike—she believes they may need to raise taxes even more.

Most concerning for Suski, the district has petitioned the state to end its court-appointed receivership, a state oversight program that the district has been in for almost six years. In June, a Dauphin County Court of Common Pleas judge is slated to decide whether Harrisburg is ready to exit and regain local control or remain in the program for another three years.

As part of a potential exit, Harrisburg would be required to follow its Amended Recovery Plan, which details goals and objectives to help the district become financially and educationally stable. Part of that plan includes a need to raise revenue through local sources.

According to an outside financial advisory firm, Public Financial Management (PFM), the district needs to raise its property taxes by 4.81% this year to satisfy the Amended Recovery Plan and to balance the budget. Suski said that she is worried that, if the district doesn’t follow that guidance, it could be placed back under state control.

“We need to look at the long-term goal, and the long-term goal is we’ve worked very hard to exit,” she said.

Currently, Suski said that she expects the court to decide on a possible exit from receivership on June 17. The district is slated to adopt its budget on June 24. So, if the district is granted an exit, the board needs to decide if it strictly will follow the Amended Recovery Plan. If not, Suski said that she believes the state could put Harrisburg back into receivership, as it is required to monitor the district for five years after an exit.

“It’s like rolling the dice. You don’t know what you’re going to get,” Suski said. “I can’t imagine that they would throw you back in, but I don’t know.”

She also pointed out that the difference in the impact on the average taxpayer, if the board approved the 4% hike over the 2%, would be less than $100.

“I would hate to see all the work that has gone on in this district over the last few years to be down the tubes for just over $80,” she said. “I’m not trying to diminish the impact on the taxpayer. But we also need to remember that local control means local effort, local investment in our school district.”

Harrisburg Finances Deemed Stable

Harrisburg’s finances are “stable,” but the city faces considerable challenges moving forward, according to a recent report from a state-appointed financial board.

Last month, the Intergovernmental Cooperation Authority (ICA) submitted its annual report to the commonwealth, offering a generally positive view of the city’s finances, but noting several concerns and, especially, urging the city to move ahead aggressively on developing an economic development plan.

“In the report, the ICA finds that the City of Harrisburg’s financial condition is currently stable, with progress toward many individual objectives,” according to the ICA, tasked since 2018 in helping to oversee Harrisburg’s financial progress. “The report, though, continues to advocate for a more comprehensive approach to economic redevelopment, as well as work toward reentering the credit marketplace.”

The report emphasizes three issues of note.

First, it “encourages” the city to work with other stakeholders, including businesses, residents, developers and neighborhood groups, to “adopt and implement a wide-ranging economic development strategy.”

“Such a plan would help significantly with the city’s vitality and preventing future downturns in the local economy,” according to the ICA.

The ICA, in its report, states that the city is the preferable entity to lead such an effort and that, in fact, the city administration has begun to put together a working group to develop a plan.

Secondly, on a related note, an economic development plan would help address the negative impact of the post-pandemic local economy, as many state and other office workers now work remotely. These impacts include higher commercial vacancy rates, reduced property taxes, less parking revenue and lower income from worker taxes.

Thirdly, the ICA remains “concerned” that the city maintain adequate fund balances both in its general fund and its neighborhood services (sanitation) fund. For years, the ICA has urged the city to improve its collection of sanitation fees, which it repeats in its current report.

The ICA stated all three of these issues as “areas of concern” in last year’s report, as well.

In the current report, the ICA notes that city is on “the cusp” of exiting from Act 47, the state’s program for financially distressed municipalities. However, it’s been prevented from doing so because of ongoing, unresolved litigation involving the city’s former incinerator, which it sold in 2013 as part of the recovery plan from its financial crisis.

Once the longstanding litigation is resolved, the city would be able to quickly exit Act 47, an important step to be able to re-access the credit markets, which it’s been unable to do since entering the program about 15 years ago.

Home Sales, Prices Higher

Harrisburg-area home sales and prices both moved higher in April, according to the latest report on previously owned houses.

For the three-county region, 501 homes sold versus 496 in April 2024, while the median sales price rose to $289,900 from $255,000, said the Greater Harrisburg Association of Realtors (GHAR).

In Dauphin County, 253 houses changed hands compared to 227 in the year-ago period, as the median sales price increased to $264,261 from $230,000, GHAR stated.

Cumberland County had 205 home sales, a drop from 227 the prior April, as the median sales price rose to $315,000 from $287,600, according to the GHAR report.

In Perry County, 34 houses sold in April, a decrease of one from the prior year, as the median sales price grew to $292,450 from $230,000, stated GHAR.

The pace of sales slowed in April, as “average days on market” rose to 33 days from 26 days in April 2024, said the report.

So Noted

Hannah Ison last month was named the executive director of the Brewers of Pennsylvania, a statewide trade organization for brewers. Ison has served as the head of brewing operations for Harrisburg-based Zeroday Brewing Co.

Jon C. Stuckey has been named interim president of Messiah University, replacing Kim Phipps, who is slated to retire at the end of this month. Stuckey will serve until a permanent president is appointed, according to the university.

Plants + Pints raised $7,000 for Downtown Daily Bread, a Harrisburg shelter. The check was presented in Strawberry Square, which hosted the day-long festival in April featuring vegetable-based products and local craft beer.

Sycamore Homes last month cut the ribbon on a 23-unit affordable apartment complex at 1400 Sycamore St. in Harrisburg. The $4.8 million project began construction in October 2022 as a partnership of the Latino Connection Foundation and Fernandez Realty Affordable Homes.

William (Bill) Habacivch, a former executive director of Veteran’s Outreach of Pennsylvania, has passed away. Habacivch helped establish the recently opened Veteran’s Grove community in south Harrisburg, also serving as long-time director of the business department at Central Penn College.

Changing Hands

Benton St., 606: G. & C. Hetes to C. Dailey, $145,000

Berryhill St., 1623: A. Pichardo to Unique Homes Group LLC, $145,000

Boas St., 104: R. Wambach to D. Shemory, $225,000

Boas St., 414: Berlin Group LLC to S. & G. Davis, $275,000

Brookwood St., 2117: E. Davis to Puzzle Properties LLC, $75,000

Brookwood St., 2424: R. Patterson to Blessed Investments LLC, $111,033

Brookwood St., 2432: D. Crawford to G and W Rentals LLC, $115,000

Brookwood St., 2445: B. & C. Roach to M. Kernizan, $126,000

Calder St., 215: M. Woolley & L. Evans to VNS LLC, $125,000

Chestnut St., 1200: 101 S. 17th Street LLC to Penn Me Properties LLC, $112,858

Chestnut St., 1202: 101 S. 17th Street LLC to Penn Me Properties LLC, $112,857

Chestnut St., 1204: 101 S. 17th Street LLC to Penn Me Properties LLC, $112,857

Chestnut St., 1206: 101 S. 17th Street LLC to Penn Me Properties LLC, $112,857

Chestnut St., 1208: 101 S. 17th Street LLC to Penn Me Properties LLC, $112,857

Chestnut St., 1909: R. Goldberg to Vantage Estate LLC, $140,000

Chestnut St., 1919: K. Brown to GW Rentals LLC, $80,000

Chestnut St., 2116: R. Pattillo to G. & T. Casner, $305,000

Derry St., 2145: R&K Realty Group LP to L. Tiburcio, $180,000

Derry St., 2233: D. & J. DePastino to Soul House LLC, $91,928

Division St., 423: Archie Group LLC to Upscale Properties LLC, $100,000

Emerald St., 232: D&F Realty Holdings LP to Chavdar Jade LLC, $290,000

Emerald St., 627: M. Braxton to Alpha Royal Lounge LLC, $87,000

Evergreen St., 26, 28: 101 S. 17th Street LLC to Penn Me Properties LLC, $112,857

Geary St., 622: D. Peralta to A. Mauricio & Y. Trinidad, $55,000

Green St., 805: J. Cowden & K. Edwards to A. Fontaine, $285,000

Green St., 1207: Arc Realty & Property Management LLC to J. Brenize, $212,500

Hanover St., 1318: B. Rodriguez to E. Forney, $108,000

Harris St., 204: T. Burke to J. & M. Cameron, $259,900

Holly St., 1830: J. Montiel & A. Salgado to R. Vidal, $171,000

Howard St., 1347: Val de Vie Estate Investment LLC to Amazings Rentals LLC, $256,000

Hummel St., 410: M. Hernandez to R. Gutierrez & A. Ortiz, $50,000

Hunter St., 1715: Side by Side 365 LLC to A. Caceres, $149,000

Kelker St., 632: D. Villalona to M. Jobczynski, $143,000

Logan St., 1730: B. & W. Bechtel to C. Fox, $243,000

Mercer St., 2472: K. Dodson to S. Rubinstein & H. Choi, $133,000

Mulberry St., 1160: E. Gonzalez & M. Castro to F. Luciano & D. Canario, $50,000

Mulberry St., 1809: D. & M. Patrick to D. Boyer, $149,900

Mulberry St., 1916: Integrity First Home Buyers LLC to BAJ Holdings LLC, $90,000

North St., 1822: R. Burgos & JFDIECIOCHO22 LLC to R. Vazquez, $130,000

North St., 1838: T. Bauserman & J. Hoskins to Breneman Properties LLC, $91,000

North St., 2014: C. Brooks to Famous Achiever LLC, $98,000

N. 2nd St., 404: A. Weinstock to Family Tires V LLC, $435,000

N. 2nd St., 1833: Glanzair Properties LLC to Elite Remodeling Realty LLC, $99,000

N. 2nd St., 1915: Apple Tree Community Development Company to Capital Acres LLC, $322,500

N. 2nd St., 2215: R. Hall to A. & A. Ferguson, $415,000

N. 3rd St., 904: Ramsden & Ramsden LLC to Fratelli Property Investments LLC, $390,000

N. 3rd St., 1419: Midtown Development LLC to Heinly Homes LLC, $320,000

N. 3rd St., 3007: V. McCray to First Choice Home Buyers LLC, $100,000

N. 4th St., 1719: J. Blymier & C. Fox to C. Corrado, $240,000

N. 4th St., 2611: J. Runion to MDR Homes LLC, $97,000

N. 5th St., 2652: Pennsylvania Housing Finance Agency to J. Holmes, $170,000

N. 5th St., 3135: G&W Rentals LLC to J. Vega, $275,000

N. 6th St., 1716 & 1718: 3N Consulting Services LLC to 1720 N 6th St PA LLC, $85,000

N. 6th St., 1720: 3N Consulting Services LLC to 1720 N 6th St PA LLC, $85,000

N. 7th St., 2624: S. Reid to Kapp Property LLC, $113,000

N. 14th St., 1201: R. Burgos & Doceuno LLC to Bedon Flooring LLC, $105,000

N. 14th St., 1203: R. Burgos & Frdoce03 to Bedon Flooring LLC, $105,000

N. 15th St., 18: Sunnyside RE Enterprise LLC to E. Esh, $190,000

N. 17th St., 56: F. Gomez to My Majesty LLC, $87,000

N. 18th St., 902: S. Marshall & J. Colbertson to W. Renesca, $190,000

N. 18th St., 916: M. Castro to First Choice Home Buyers LLC, $88,000

N. Front St., 1101: S. Krevsky to D. Aldous, $260,000

Park St., 1631: E. Torres to Goods Creekside Properties LLC, $80,000

Paxton St., 1700: N. Akhter to Paxton Mart Co., $765,000

Penn St., 2333: Adonis Real Estate LLC to M. & C. Fleming, $155,000

Penwood Rd., 3116: A. Hollinger & E. Shellhamer to G. Haffner, $175,000

Penwood Rd., 3214: R. & S. Holloman to I. Trost, $195,000

Radnor St., 618: M. Temba and C. & J. Liu to D. Glick, $125,000

Radnor St., 672: Rivas Property Investments LLC to N. Chisolm, $155,000

Randolph St., 1614: R. Augustin to L. Chavez & L. Morales, $91,000

Reel St., 2414: J. Ford to C. Woods, $75,000

Regina St., 1810: R. Bedon to A. Perez, $170,000

Reily St., 215: Calders Street Development LLC to Velocity Capital Group LLC, $290,000

Rumson Dr., 2842: R. & D. Bratina to Sunnyside RE Enterprise LLC, $171,000

Rumson Dr., 2983: C. Caraballo to E. Jimenez, $174,000

Showers St., 612: J. Forry to F. & D. Vaughn, $230,000

S. 17th St., 523: Philadelphia Macaroni Co. to Couscous Co. LLC, $4,250,000

S. 18th St., 157: B. Vincent to Blue Trust Investments LLC, $60,000

S. 19th St., 28: M. Slabonik to VTF Dylle Properties LLC, $130,000

S. 29th St., 708: Culcay Remodeling Guagua LLC to C. Lozano, $195,000

S. Cameron St., 1325: M. Khan to J. Finefrock, $52,000

State St., 1414: A. & M. Collins to Aybar Bonilla Investment LLC, $224,900

State St., 1508: Vernon St Apartments LLC to JG Family Trust, $236,000

Susquehanna St., 1336: Green Scapes Investments LLC to E. & R. Clammer, $440,000

Susquehanna St., 2005: D. Witmer to H. Martinez, $230,000

Sylvan Terr., 125: Triple S Real Estate LLC to PACC HBG 2 LLC, $290,000

Verbeke St., 1613: R. Sanchez to A. & D. Bolinger, $220,000

Vernon St., 1348: D. Boyle to Unique Homes Group LLC, $75,000

Vernon St., 1435: Val de Vie Estate Investment LLC to O. & A. Ogunfowora, $159,000

Vine St., 113: C. Friedel to S. & M. McGarvey, $151,000

Walnut St., 1732: A. Lovo to A. Bouhach, $83,000

Wiconisco St., 420: Sky Resort Investments LLC to H. & A. Fisher, $585,000

Wiconisco St., 529: Taylor Made Bizzness LLC to C&C Homes LLC, $80,000

Woodlawn St., 2312 & 2317 Luce St.: Zieger Son Inc. and Zieger & Sons Inc. to 2300 Woodlawn Street LLC, $1,115,000

Harrisburg property sales, April 2025, greater than $50,000. Source: Dauphin County. Data is assumed to be accurate.

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Burg Bucket List: Play tourist and start a summer romance with Harrisburg

May 29, 2025 | by Maddie Gittens

I had family in town recently and, since it was their first time in Harrisburg, I was excited to show them around. My husband Jamar and I took them to several of our favorite spots—Riverfront Park for a stroll, the Broad Street Market for Friday lunch and the Capitol building for the view at the top of the steps.

While I played tour guide, I felt like I was seeing my city through fresh eyes. When my mother- and sister-in-law’s eyes lit up over the buffet of steaming Jamaican food at the Porter’s House market stand or when my nephews giggled while picking dandelions in the park or when everyone said they loved the view of the sparkling river, I thought, “Wow, me too!”

I’ve lived in the city for five years now, and it’s easy to fall into the trap of taking Harrisburg’s gems for granted. For those who have lived here 10 years, 20 or their whole lives, I’m sure it’s even easier. So, I set out to round up some of my favorite ways to romanticize everyday life in our city with some hidden gem ideas.

Peaceful Park

This may be at the top of my list of Harrisburg’s most underrated places that’s literally right under your nose. The Capitol! I can’t tell you the number of times I’ve gone to eat lunch on a bench in Capitol Park and thought, “It’s so nice and peaceful up here. Where is everyone?” I love taking a break from the office to relax in the park and watch the squirrels.

I also highly recommend coming back to the Capitol complex in the evening to walk around the stately building with a view of the fountain and Soldier’s Grove Park. Last summer, we got takeout from Tacos Mi Tierra in Allison Hill, drove across the bridge to the east side of the Capitol and ate our dinner with friends at one of the picnic tables overlooking the fountain. There was no one else in sight. I joked that it felt like we were having dinner on our own private mansion patio.

Taco Tour

Speaking of tacos…Every time I’m in Allison Hill, I take a mental inventory of all of the restaurants I’m still dying to try. There are so many food trucks and restaurants selling Latin cuisine. So, I decided—why not try a bunch at once with a “Taco hop” through the neighborhood? Jamar happily tagged along, and we made it through three places, each with its own unique flair. First stop was for yummy steak tacos at Rice & Beans Restaurant on S. 17th Street—a place I’ve been before but never for tacos. Conveniently right next door is El Verdadero Sabor de Mexico, where we popped in for round two, birria tacos smothered in guac. Then we hooked a right on Derry Street and stopped at El Carrizal to finish the night with an assortment of chicken, chorizo and carnitas tacos. Also nearby are several other places, like Tacos Mi Tierra, as well as a few Dominican food trucks and a Guatemalan spot. But for this trip, we decided to stick to tacos, so we weren’t in a food coma by sunset.

We had our favorites but enjoyed each restaurant. We had so much fun and will be planning more themed food tours this summer.

If you aren’t too stuffed by the time you’re done with tacos, maybe grab a dessert and head to Reservoir Park to relax or walk off all the tacos. Reservoir is another beautiful, yet underutilized city park.

Read and Roam

I live on the border of Midtown and Uptown, and recently I’ve enjoyed walking to the Madeline L. Olewine Memorial Library, which I just call “my library” because we share a name. I think it’s the cutest little spot with a pretty oak tree out front. If you don’t live nearby to walk, you can drive and park in their lot and head inside. The library is snug, but I’ve borrowed several books from them that I’ve loved. This time, I checked out a novel and a cookbook, which we’ll use for a later activity. Make sure you have a Dauphin County Library card!

Take your finds and walk 10 minutes to Italian Lake Park to either find a shaded bench to sit and read on or stroll around the quaint lake. The park is such a beautiful hidden oasis in the city that more people should take advantage of. When you’ve hit a good stopping point in your book, walk back to your car at the library. And if you need to cool down after the walk, take a short drive down 3rd Street to Midtown Juice Lab for a smoothie or, my favorite, an acai bowl with fresh fruit.

Market Meal & Movie

If you picked up a cookbook at the library like I did, or you have another recipe in mind, it’s time to do a little shopping. I must admit, I’m not a big fan of cooking, but I stepped outside my comfort zone to make something with all local ingredients. I decided on citrus salmon with brown butter asparagus. I grabbed fresh produce and ingredients at the Broad Street Market and Radish & Rye Food Hub and then hit Alvaro Bread and Pastry Shoppe on Green Street for a loaf of bread (try to get there somewhat early for the best options). My meal turned out delicious!

Bonus idea: catch a movie at Midtown Cinema after dinner and make it a date night. The cinema has a chalkboard outside with their daily movies and times, which I like to check when I walk by. I love having a theater in my neighborhood that’s so much cleaner, cozier and has better concessions—coffee drinks, ice cream, Zeroday brews—than the big theaters.

Take Me Out

I recently attended a Senators baseball game on City Island and was reminded of how much I enjoy attending games with friends. I’ve got to tell you, I’m not a big sports person. However, I love a good live sporting event, even if it’s 50% because of the snacks (try the hot candied pecans and thank me later). There’s nothing like a warm summer night at the baseball field, chatting, I mean, watching the game with friends. FNB Field is such a nice stadium that’s just a walk across the Walnut Street Bridge away.

If you’re looking for some ways to spice up a Saturday or summer weeknight in the city, be a tourist—even if you’re not one. Try a restaurant you’ve never been to, buy cheap seats for a baseball game, or find a tree to sit under and read or enjoy a picnic with friends.

I’m a huge “Gilmore Girls” fan and, if you know the show, Stars Hollow is the ultimate small town, with places to eat within walking distance, a movie theater, bookstore and cast of quirky characters. Well, Harrisburg’s got all that!

Every time I’ve hosted visitors in Harrisburg, they’ve enjoyed our town. Some loved the nature, others the food and some the history, like my Jersey grandmom who was excited to visit as an avid Burg reader. Invite your friends and family too! And maybe, you’ll get a fresh glimpse at the city and, like me, think, “Oh wow, Harrisburg is really nice.”

If you try any of these ideas or come up with your own, share your photos and tag @theburgnews!

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

What you’ll find ⤵️

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