Dauphin County announces gaming grant awards to local organizations

May 7, 2025 | by Maddie Gittens

The Broad Street Market Alliance will receive gaming grant funds.

Many local organizations will receive money to help with upcoming projects.

Dauphin County announced its annual gaming grant awardees on Wednesday, approving the allocation of $10 million to nonprofits and businesses funded by the county’s share of gaming grant funds from the Hollywood Casino at Penn National.

This year’s grants were announced several months later than usual due to changes to the process that caused delays, according to LaToya Winfield Bellamy, solicitor for the gaming advisory board.

Awarded projects include investments in infrastructure, public health, transportation, emergency services and other areas.

Harrisburg-based projects that were awarded Gaming Grants include:

Harrisburg City – Purchase and install new salt dome under the Public Works Department – $210,000
Beacon Clinic for Health and Hope – Renovations to new location and purchase of medical equipment and supplies – $10,000
Beahive Affordable Housing Outreach, Inc. – Affordable Housing Option Project including kitchen and other improvements – $25,000
Bethany AME Church of Harrisburg – Safety improvements – purchase and installation of cameras – $12,000
Blessed 2 Give Inc. – Housing program to support young individuals that have aged out of foster care – $13,000
Boys & Girls Club of Harrisburg, Inc. – Safety and Security Upgrades – replacement/upgrades of exterior and interior doors – $20,000
Broad Street Market Alliance – Support continued operation of Market Tent and Stone Buildings; conditioned upon renegotiating lease with City – $75,000
Capital Area Greenbelt Association – Relocate quarter mile of the 20+ mile trail in South Harrisburg – $20,000
Cathedral Parish of St. Patrick – Security Camera System, intercom system and installation of safer and secure front door hardware – $18,000
Catholic Charities of the Diocese of Harrisburg – Purchase new 15 passenger van to transport unhoused residents – $20,000
Driven From Within – Youth development, education and mentoring programs – $7,500
Empower at the Bridge Foundation – Construct audio and visual arts training center including photography studio – $16,000
Good Karma Garage – Provide auto repair to lower income families at no cost – $34,600
I.S. Ministry – Father Me mentoring program – $3,000
Halifax Midget Baseball Association – Fix backstop fence and raising outfield fences – $11,200
Handle’s Helping Hand Foundation – Affordable apartment units located in the 1600 block of Market Street; conditioned upon being used for construction costs only – $75,000
Harrisburg Area Food Pantry – Meet the increasing need for emergency food assistance – $75,000
Harrisburg Area Learning Academy Inc. – Funds to expand staff and programming at Central PA Center for Trauma and Healing – $12,000
Harrisburg Area YMCA – Renovate two bathroom facilities at Camp Curtin Branch – $10,500
Harrisburg High School Football Booster Club – Purchase new uniforms, travel sweatsuits, backpacks, and equipment – $8,000
Harrisburg River Rescue & Emergency Services, Inc. – Purchase OIC/Duty Officer vehicle to increase response time – $50,000
Health Ministries of Christ Lutheran Church – Relocate and expand dental clinic – $37,500
Homeland Center – Phase II Security Infrastructure Improvement Project – to replace end of life wireless access points – $15,000
Jewish Federation of Greater Harrisburg – Multi-phase safety and security infrastructure project – $37,500
Keystone Human Services – Improvements for children enrolled in Capital Area Head Start Program including a fence – $8,300
Latino Connection Foundation – Develop Woodward Lofts senior affordable housing – $50,000
Latino Hispanic American Community Center – Rehabilitation and improvement project to modernize, enhance facility and improve accessibility – $30,000
LGBT Community Center Coalition of Central PA – Renovations to LGBT Center including ramp – $25,000
Macedonia Missionary Baptist Church – Improvements to church edifice and parsonage – $25,000
Nathaniel Gadsden’s Writers Wordshop – Writers’ wordshop program for incarcerated and recently released youth – $10,000
Open Stage – Lighting upgrades in three spaces – $10,000
Scholars Inc. dba Thrive Housing Services – Purchase ADA accessible van – $25,000
Second Baptist Church of Harrisburg – Replacement and repair of aging HVAC system in the church – $15,000
Paul’s Episcopal Church – Repairs to church parking lot and support to St. Barnabas Summer Youth Camp – $20,000
Stephen’s Episcopal School – Building renovations and repairs – $10,000
State Street Academy of Music at St. Lawrence – Purchase instruments to provide music instruction and activities – $5,000
The Civic Club of Harrisburg – Completion of exterior renovations – $6,400
The Nativity School of Harrisburg – Phase IV of renovation project and repairing windows and wall of the school gym – $25,000
The Salvation Army in Harrisburg Capital – Purchase new van for transporting students to THRIVE 506 after school program – $40,000
TLC Work Base Training Program, Inc. – Install AC unit system in Allison Hill Community Center – $75,000
Veterans Outreach of PA – Storage sheds and equipment for snow removal and property maintenance at Veterans Grove – $20,000
Whitaker Center for Science and the Arts – Replace aging fire panel at Whitaker center – $25,000
Wildheart – Construction of The Gateway affordable housing development – $30,000

County officials noted that gaming grant funds are not permitted to be used for county tax relief purposes.

Winfield Bellamy noted that there were around 255 applicants, with 57 that were not funded. Projects that were ready to go and focused on infrastructure were prioritized, she said.

The full list of gaming grant awardees is as follows:

Host & Contiguous

East Hanover Township (East Hanover Township – Annual paving/repair of roads $500,000; Annual lease payment for Grantville Volunteer Fire Co. pumper $99,678; and Renovation to Township building kitchen and two public bathrooms $20,000) – $619,678
Derry Township (Hershey Vol. Fire Co. – Debt service on engine 48-1 and attack 48 $150,000; Derry Township Police Dept. – Acquire a mobile speed display trailer and stationary speed display boards $50,000; Derry Township Police Department – Acquire 8 electric police mountain bikes $52,131) – $252,131
Middle Paxton Township (Red Hill Rd. bridge replacement DCIB loan debt service $124,000; DCIB-G loan debt service for Potato Valley Rd. stream relocation/restoration, pipe/culvert replacement and improvements $40,000; and Architecture and engineering design for new Public Works facility $55,000; Dauphin County Local Emergency Planning Committee/DC HazMat Response Team – Replacement of Motorola XTS 5000 portable radios $70,865; Central Pennsylvania Rifle Club – Roof replacement project $5,000; Borough of Dauphin – Construct community building $100,000.00) – $394,865
Rush Township (Implementation of speed bumps and traffic speed radar feedback signs $22,000; Lykens Valley Children’s Museum – Vehicle for the mobile STEAM Station Express $35,000) – $57,000
South Hanover Township (New municipal complex and emergency service center debt service $245,000; AACA Museum, Inc. – Replace failing digital billboard sign $33,790) – $278,790
West Hanover Township (Debt relief for new municipal complex building $245,000; Harrisburg Forest #43, Tall Cedars of Lebanon – Renovate women’s restroom and build 30×32 pole building $28,725) – $273,725

Municipal and Municipal Services Awards

Berrysburg Municipal Authority – Debt service for new sewage treatment plant – $33,125
Conewago Township (DCIB debt reduction for Meadow Lane Improvement Project $110,000 and Construction of pavilion over two-court pickleball complex $55,475) $165,475
Court Administration for MDJ – Debt reduction for land acquisition, site work and construction of new facility – $325,000
Dauphin County CASA – Court Appointed Special Advocates operations support – $65,000
Dauphin County Department of Parks & Recreation – Detweiler Park capital improvements – debt service for DCIB-G loan related to Phase 1 public entrance road widening and facilities and partial payment of Phase 2 costs – $150,000
Dauphin County Department of Public Safety – Installation and repairs to radio tower site grounding system – $206,855
Dauphin County Industrial Development Authority – Small business loan program support – $150,000
Dauphin County Office of Community & Economic Development – Grant management software for data aggregation and tracking – $200,000
Dauphin County Office of Community & Economic Development – Broadband project debt service relief for payment of general obligation note – $328,253
Dauphin County Redevelopment Authority/ Dauphin County Land Bank Authority – Joint application for operating assistance – $250,000
Dauphin County Redevelopment Authority – Planning phase of Innovation EcoSphere Project – $150,000
Dauphin County Sheriff’s Office – Replacement of 49 portable radios – $75,815
Elizabethville Borough – Replace older dump truck – $35,000
Elizabethville Borough Authority – Upgrade Mountain View Pump Station, electrical system, and install four electronic transducers. – $96,000
Fisherville Vol. Fire Co. No. 1 – Engine 216 debt reduction – $40,000
Gratz Area Fire Company #1 – Replace current nozzles, 3 inch hose and purchase thermal imaging camera and other equipment – $30,000
Gratz Borough (Community Building and valve upgrades – $70,000; Repair 12 wastewater grinder pumps – $70,000) – $140,000
Halifax Area Ambulance & Rescue Association – Remounting of oldest ambulance in fleet – $75,000
Halifax Area Water and Sewer Authority – Install new water line – $75,000
Halifax Township – Fort Halifax Park entry road improvements and stone parking (Phase II) – $82,670
Harrisburg City – Purchase and install new salt dome under the Public Works Department – $210,000
Highspire / Citizens Fire Co. #1 of Highspire, Inc. – Refurbish 2005 E- One Cyclone engine – $50,000
Highspire Borough – DCIB loan debt reduction to improve roadway safety on Lumber Street – $100,000
Hummelstown Borough – Debt service for municipal public safety building, DCIB loan debt service for stormwater project, Swatara Township Authority dryer and Bullfrog Valley Rd. stream restoration – $150,000
Hummelstown Chemical Fire Co. No. 1 – Debt reduction for 2023 ladder truck purchase – $50,000
Liberty Hose Co. No. 2 – Install a five-layer floor system at fire station – $25,000
Londonderry Township – Refurbishment of fire truck engine 54 – $150,000
Lower Paxton Township Parks & Recreation – Enhance safety, accessibility, and recreational opportunities at Lingle Park – $175,000
Lower Swatara Township – Payments on DCIB 2017, 2022, 2023 loans for storm sewer system, stream restoration and stormwater flow – $174,000
Lower Swatara Vol. Fire Department – Debt reduction on 2018 pumper/tanker – $50,000
Lykens Borough Authority – Construction of new well, well house, electric services, and connections for wastewater system – $120,000
Middletown Borough – Provide safe mobility impaired play apparatus at Frey Manor Park – $107,000
Middletown Vol. Fire Department – Debt reduction/payoff for 2021 pumper truck – $50,000
Mifflin Township – Purchase new wheel loader and skid loader – $107,000
Millersburg Area Ambulance Association, Inc. – Purchase bariatric ambulance – $150,000
Penbrook Borough – Community Park – Master Site Plan; conditioned upon matching grant – $37,500
Pillow Borough Authority – Standpipe rehabilitation project and meter purchases – $75,000
Reed Township – Debt reduction on new municipal building project – $83,500
Reliance Hose Co. No. 1 of Elizabethville – Replace portable radios – $78,000
Royalton Borough – Construct public works building – $125,000
Steelton Borough – Roadway management plan and South 2^nd Street paving project – $107,000
Steelton Stormwater Authority – Clean all stormwater inlets and make repairs – $75,000
Steelton Volunteer Fire Department – Purchase of four AEDs and five sets of firefighting PPE – $35,000
Susquehanna Township – Funding for new Progress Fire Station/Public Safety Building – $175,000
Swatara Township – Ivy Ridge Park improvements – $218,000
Washington Township – Debt reduction of bank loan for municipal building project – $107,000
Washington Township Authority – Remove 40,000 gallons of sludge from lagoons – $75,000
Wiconisco Fire Engine Company No.1 – Debt reduction from purchase of rescue engine in 2018 – $50,000
Williams Township – Armory Road/South Orange St., South Street to Water St. resurfacing – $75,000
Williamstown Area EMS, Inc. – Purchase new ambulance – $75,000

Other Awards

AKA Foundation of Central PA, Inc. – Community Health and Wellness Outreach Program – $5,000
Beacon Clinic for Health and Hope – Renovations to new location and purchase of medical equipment and supplies – $10,000
Beahive Affordable Housing Outreach, Inc. – Affordable Housing Option Project including kitchen and other improvements – $25,000
Berrysburg Borough – Mifflin Recreation Association – Installation of remaining playground equipment, mulch borders, paint, etc. – $8,962
Bethany AME Church of Harrisburg – Safety improvements – purchase and installation of cameras – $12,000
Bhutanese Community in Harrisburg – Renovate office building to establish BCH Community Center – $75,000
Blessed 2 Give Inc. – Housing program to support young individuals that have aged out of foster care – $13,000
Boys & Girls Club of Harrisburg, Inc. – Safety and Security Upgrades – replacement/upgrades of exterior and interior doors – $20,000
Breadcoin Foundation LTD – Provide additional Breadcoins monthly to partners for use at local food vendors – $15,000
Broad Street Market Alliance – Support continued operation of Market Tent and Stone Buildings; conditioned upon renegotiating lease with City – $75,000
Camp Hebron – New cabins in lower loop of camp – $12,000
Capital Area Greenbelt Association – Relocate quarter mile of the 20+ mile trail in South Harrisburg – $20,000
Capital Area Therapeutic Riding Association, Inc. – Purchase a John Deere Compact Excavator – $20,000
Capital Region Literacy Council – Purchase and distribute new books – $10,000
Castaway Critters – Free spay/neuter servicing – $5,000
Cathedral Parish of St. Patrick – Security Camera System, intercom system and installation of safer and secure front door hardware – $18,000
Catholic Charities of the Diocese of Harrisburg – Purchase new 15 passenger van to transport unhoused residents – $20,000
CMU now known as Pathways Forward – Revitalize operations with physical plant improvements, software upgrades, and technology – $15,000
Cocoa Packs, Inc. – Food assistance program – $75,000
Creative Community Grow – Construct a community garden and demonstration area – $20,000
Crosspoint United Methodist Church – Church wide surveillance system project including external cameras – $8,275
D3 Training Center – Provide high quality year-round wrestling training, equipment updates and fee waivers for families in need – $10,000
Driven From Within – Youth development, education and mentoring programs – $7,500
Elevator Constructors Local 59 Joint Apprenticeship Training Center – Training Center upgrades – $75,000
Empower at the Bridge Foundation – Construct audio and visual arts training center including photography studio – $16,000
Friends of Midland – Restoration and preservation of Midland Cemetery – $25,000
Good Karma Garage – Provide auto repair to lower income families at no cost – $34,600
Graceful Acres – Debt reduction of ADA equine facility – $11,500
I.S. Ministry – Father Me mentoring program – $3,000
Halifax Midget Baseball Association – Fix backstop fence and raising outfield fences – $11,200
Handle’s Helping Hand Foundation – Affordable apartment units located in the 1600 block of Market Street; conditioned upon being used for construction costs only – $75,000
HANNA’s Pantry – Funds to offset food costs – $45,000
Harrisburg Area Food Pantry – Meet the increasing need for emergency food assistance – $75,000
Harrisburg Area Learning Academy Inc. – Funds to expand staff and programming at Central PA Center for Trauma and Healing – $12,000
Harrisburg Area YMCA – Renovate two bathroom facilities at Camp Curtin Branch – $10,500
Harrisburg Electricians Joint Apprenticeship and Training Committee – New roof and renovations to second floor of training facility – $75,000
Harrisburg High School Football Booster Club – Purchase new uniforms, travel sweatsuits, backpacks, and equipment – $8,000
Harrisburg River Rescue & Emergency Services, Inc. – Purchase OIC/Duty Officer vehicle to increase response time – $50,000
Health Ministries of Christ Lutheran Church – Relocate and expand dental clinic – $37,500
Historical Society of Dauphin County – Phase 2 capital improvement project for mansion – $15,000
Homeland Center – Phase II Security Infrastructure Improvement Project – to replace end of life wireless access points – $15,000
Jewish Federation of Greater Harrisburg – Multi-phase safety and security infrastructure project – $37,500
Keystone Human Services – Improvements for children enrolled in Capital Area Head Start Program including a fence – $8,300
Koons Memorial Park Swim Club – Relocate and replace diving board – $4,000
Latino Connection Foundation – Develop Woodward Lofts senior affordable housing – $50,000
Latino Hispanic American Community Center – Rehabilitation and improvement project to modernize, enhance facility and improve accessibility – $30,000
Left Out Organization Program Inc. – After school program for youth; conditioned upon being used for CPR kits – $6,500
LGBT Community Center Coalition of Central PA – Renovations to LGBT Center including ramp – $25,000
LHM Hospice and Social Services Foundation – Purchase furniture for transitional housing units – $25,000
Linglestown Baseball Association – New dugouts for two (2) fields at Koons Park – $20,000
LivingWell Institute – Purchase 15 passenger van for family restoration program – $15,000
Macedonia Missionary Baptist Church – Improvements to church edifice and parsonage – $25,000
Midwest Food Bank – Expenses for food transportation and procurement – $25,000
Millersburg Area Senior Center – Bathroom renovation and expansion project, pour concrete pad and purchase generator for emergency shelter project – $15,000
Millersburg Cedars Association Forest 125 – Replace windows and siding – $14,800
Millersburg Ferry Boat Association – Purchase and install durable laminate wood beams – $5,000
Ministry Business Consultants – ADA compliant parking lot upgrades at facility used for food distribution – $25,000
Nathaniel Gadsden’s Writers Wordshop – Writers’ wordshop program for incarcerated and recently released youth – $10,000
Ned Smith Center for Nature and Art – Rebuild bridge on the bridge trail – $35,000
Neighborhood Football Club, Inc. – Purchase new 15 passenger van – $12,000
Off the Streets Middletown Inc. – Assist unhoused individuals with security deposits, bedding and furniture; condition to be used for household items – $35,000
Open Stage – Lighting upgrades in three spaces – $10,000
Penbrook American Legion Post 730 – HVAC repairs, fire suppression system issues and ADA compliance – $4,000
Pennsylvania Council of Churches – Roof repair and initiation of new food pantry; contingent upon receipt of FEMA award – $75,000
Peyton Walker Foundation – Provide AEDs for Strengthening the Lifeline Project – $37,500
Pop’s House – Veterans home mortgage debt reduction – $9,000
RockSTARt Early Learning Center – Debt reduction related to expansion – $12,000
Roller Nation Foundation – Replace public address and sound system; conditioned upon the athletic complex being in operation for fall of 2026 – $19,000
Ronald McDonald House Charities – Central PA – Upgrade/modernize technology with laptops and website – $8,000
Scholars Inc. dba Thrive Housing Services – Purchase ADA accessible van – $25,000
Second Baptist Church of Harrisburg – Replacement and repair of aging HVAC system in the church – $15,000
SOAL: Saving Our Ancestors Legacy – Infrastructure and security upgrades at Historic Lincoln Cemetery – $19,000
Softball Association of Linglestown – Purchase field tractor, diamond tex and field supplies – $10,000
Paul’s Episcopal Church – Repairs to church parking lot and support to St. Barnabas Summer Youth Camp – $20,000
Stephen’s Episcopal School – Building renovations and repairs – $10,000
State Street Academy of Music at St. Lawrence – Purchase instruments to provide music instruction and activities – $5,000
Steever’s Day American Legion Post #326 – Upgrade bathroom facilities to make ADA compliant – $12,500
Susquehanna Area Regional Airport Authority – Debt service associated with the purchase of 2023 Oshkosh Striker (aircraft rescue firefighting) – $50,000
Susquehanna Mountain Bike Association – Equipment purchases and trail connector – $59,747
Technology4Me – Technology equipment and programs that provide skills and digital literacy training – $10,000
The Civic Club of Harrisburg – Completion of exterior renovations – $6,400
The Ecumenical Community – Install cameras across the campus – $13,000
The Foundation for the Central Dauphin Schools – NutriPacks weekend nutritional food supplement program – $75,000
The Hershey Partnership – Website improvements, social media and publication mailer to enhance presence – $14,900
The J.T. Dorsey Foundation – Purchasing equipment and resources to support the foundation’s marketing and programming – $5,000
The Nativity School of Harrisburg – Phase IV of renovation project and repairing windows and wall of the school gym – $25,000
The Partnership for Hope – Funds for care, home items and food (basic needs) – $10,000
The Salvation Army in Harrisburg Capital – Purchase new van for transporting students to THRIVE 506 after school program – $40,000
TIM Heroes, Inc. – Support public awareness campaign for first responder safety initiative – $10,000
TLC Work Base Training Program, Inc. – Install AC unit system in Allison Hill Community Center – $75,000
Unite Central PA – After school program for youth facility – $12,000
United Disabilities Services Foundation – Service dog for two wait list clients; conditioned upon dogs going to a Dauphin Co. Family – $6,000
United Way of the Capital Region – Expand access to health care to low-income families through Contact to Care Program – $5,000
Upper Dauphin Teener Baseball – Safety improvements to MYO baseball field – $11,500
Veterans Outreach of PA – Storage sheds and equipment for snow removal and property maintenance at Veterans Grove – $20,000
Whitaker Center for Science and the Arts – Replace aging fire panel at Whitaker center – $25,000
Wildheart – Construction of The Gateway affordable housing development – $30,000
Williamstown American Legion Post 239 – Install new fireplace insert – $5,000
WITF Inc. – Upgrade primary broadcasting tower – $75,000

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Jazz camp offers students of all abilities chance to be immersed in music

May 5, 2025 | by Maddie Gittens

2024 jazz camp

An upcoming camp will allow students to spend full days immersed in music.

Central Pennsylvania Friends of Jazz announced that its annual jazz camp will host youth from June 11 to 14, offering them a chance to learn from the best and jam with their peers.

The camp, which will take place at Messiah University, accepts students of all skill levels and with a variety of instruments, from saxophone to trombone, piano, guitar and several others.

“We really pride ourselves on the fact that it’s open to students of any ability,” said Camp Director Mark Hunsberger. “It’s really about helping to introduce young students to jazz.”

This year, students will learn from internationally renowned bassist and recording artist Rodney Whitaker, the camp’s spotlighted guest faculty member. Hunsberger described him as a “living legend” and noted that students will get to learn from him and attend his concert.

Additionally, students will take classes in music theory, jazz history and improvisation and participate in listening classes, rehearsals and jam sessions with peers.

High school student and saxophone player Ian Brookmyer has attended jazz camp for six years and sits on the Central PA Friends of Jazz board as a student representative. Brookmyer said that, when he first attended camp, he was in the beginner skill level group and now is in the top ensemble.

“It’s certainly helped me a lot in allowing me to advance,” he said. “You’re basically playing all day long for four days.”

Brookmyer plans to go to college to study music education, a goal that he said was further encouraged by his years at the camp.

The program is open to students ages 12 through 18.

Hunsberger said that the camp also helps connect campers to private lessons, further education and other opportunities. Many camp alumni have gone on to pursue musical careers and passions, he said.

“It’s incredible that we create space for them to be immersed in the jazz experience,” he said.

For more information on the Central PA Friends of Jazz camp, visit their website.

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The Week that Was: News and features around Harrisburg

May 2, 2025 | by Lawrance Binda and Maddie Gittens

SoMa Block Party. Photo by Michael Yatsko Photography.

Our May issue of the magazine was distributed this week, and we can’t wait for you to read it! Grab a copy and check out some of the restaurants and venues featured in our special section. But first, find our local news coverage from this week, below.

Bike Harrisburg has lots of May events planned to celebrate National Bike Month. Read our story for the details.

TheBurg’s advertising is winning awards, and our publisher thanks our sales team and advertising customers, here.

Community Corner features special events taking place this May, while our Happenings section includes events from your favorite cultural and community organizations across the region.

Concerts in May will feature rap, rock, indie and plenty of other genres. Find our columnist’s list of upcoming shows, here.

Dauphin County Live Concert Series announced that Damian “Jr. Gong” Marley and Stephen Marley will perform in Riverfront Park on Aug. 3, our online story reported. The two reggae artists are family members of the legendary Bob Marley.

The Intergovernmental Cooperation Authority submitted its annual report on Harrisburg’s finances. To find out what they had to say, click here.

Jewish Family Service will host its annual fundraiser in June featuring a string quartet from Me2/, an orchestra for musicians with mental illness, our online story reported.

The Jewish Federation of Greater Harrisburg’s community theater program will perform “Once Upon a Mattress” on April 8, 10 and 11, our online story reported. The show is the community center’s first all-ages production in years.

Penn State Extension’s Master Watershed Steward program spans 42 counties, with volunteers running educational events and stream cleanups, our magazine story reported.

Sara Bozich is your connection for all things local entertainment this weekend. Find her list of events, here.

SoMa Bock Parties will return this summer in downtown Harrisburg, our online story reported. The first event will take place on Thursday, May 29.

Sycamore Homes officials cut the ribbon on the new affordable housing development in Harrisburg, our online story reported. The apartment building will offer quality housing for lower-income tenants.

Theatre Harrisburg is showing the classic whodunnit, “Murder on the Orient Express,” through May 11. Read our review to find out more about the stage adaptation of the Agatha Christie book.

Do you receive TheBurg Daily, our daily digest of news and events delivered right to your email inbox? If not, sign up here!

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Capital Region Water will seek community input on green infrastructure updates in Riverfront Park

May 2, 2025 | by Maddie Gittens

Area of Riverfront Park where CRW will make green infrastructure improvements.

Harrisburg is known for its green riverfront—but could it be even greener?

Capital Region Water believes it could be and will solicit community input on future updates to a portion of Riverfront Park at an event later this month.

The water and sewer utility has plans to add green stormwater infrastructure to the park as part of its City Beautiful H2O project, aimed at reducing water runoff pollution entering local waterways. The effort will focus on the wide section of the park between the areas of UPMC Hospital and the railroad bridge in Shipoke.

“The City Beautiful movement itself is a movement that tied huge investments in infrastructure with public and civic space,” said Claire Maulhardt, stormwater utility director. “So, Riverfront Park has always been identified as an opportunity for implementing additional infrastructure.”

The green line outlines CRW’s Riverfront Park project site. Screenshot from CRW’s website.

The project, which is in the preliminary stage, will add both green upgrades that park users will notice, as well as underground infrastructure like stormwater storage. The project will help limit water runoff pollution into the Susquehanna River and Paxton Creek and will help prevent flooding downtown.

Most notably, CRW will construct rain gardens, depressed garden areas that collect rainfall and stormwater runoff. The trail location through the park will also likely change.

Maulhardt explained that CRW plans to keep sufficient designated green space to be used for summer concerts and events, which the park area is often used for.

“We want to enhance it to actually help it even function a whole lot better for events because things are laid out properly to make those activities happen with ease,” she said.

Historic monuments and a burial site in the area will also be preserved.

However, the actual design of the area—the layout of the trail, the shape of the rain gardens, the tree planting and the safety elements—is up for discussion, as CRW hopes to engage the community in the planning process.

The organization will host an open house event in Riverfront Park, near N. Front and Washington streets, on May 21, from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. Community members are invited to attend to view preliminary concepts and share their thoughts.

CRW then plans to encourage feedback and bring the community a more finalized plan in September. It expects to complete a final design in the fall and potentially begin implementation in the spring of 2026.

Maulhardt said that there may be additional phases of park improvement, as well, as CRW works with the city, Dauphin County, the Capital Area Greenbelt Association, neighborhood groups and other stakeholders.

CRW estimates that the project will cost around $6 million. For the project, they have received a $1 million grant from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.

CRW has already begun gathering stakeholder input, and the public can comment on the function and design of Riverfront Park, here.

For more information, visit Capital Region Water’s website.

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Jewish Community Center’s upcoming show brings actors of all-ages to the stage, sparking creativity, fun

May 2, 2025 | by Maddie Gittens

Cast of “Once Upon a Mattress” during rehearsal. Photo courtesy of the Jewish Community Center.

A local theater is bringing a classic tale to life.

The Jewish Federation of Greater Harrisburg’s community theater program is set to take the stage next weekend for a production of “Once Upon a Mattress,” the organization’s first all-ages performance in years.

The Jewish Community Center’s Ellie Goldenberg Theater Program will perform “Once Upon a Mattress,” a retelling of the “Princess and the Pea,” at Theatre Harrisburg’s Krevsky Production Center on May 8, 10 and 11.

“I am overjoyed to be able to present the first ‘all-ages’ theater production our program has offered in a decade,” said Macy Box, director/producer of the production and program director. “It’s a big ask to come sing and dance before your community–these performers have chosen to do this anyway.”

Box explained that she sees this show as a way for adults to “activate creativity” and spark their excitement for play, things that can often get lost in the transition from childhood to adulthood. For some of the actors, the show is a way to return to a former passion and, for others, a way to try something new, she said.

Performer Matt Maisel, who plays Prince Dauntless, hadn’t participated in a theater production since high school.

“The moment I auditioned, all the memories of why I love musicals came flooding back. The ability to bring emotions out of an audience, whether through laughter or tears, is so powerful,” Maisel said. “Since the last time I was on stage, I’ve started a family, and now I get to show this passion of mine to my wife and kids who have never seen it before. It’s very rewarding.”

For more information on the Harrisburg JCC’s Ellie Goldenberg Theater Program and for tickets to “Once Upon A Mattress,” visit their website.

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Mental health and music will take center stage at Jewish Family Service fundraiser

May 1, 2025 | by Maddie Gittens

Me2/ Orchestra

An upcoming event will feature a great musical performance—but, more importantly, the mission behind it.

Jewish Family Service will bring a string quartet from Me2/, an orchestra for musicians with mental illness, to perform at its fundraising event on June 29.

“I thought it really resonated with what we do and supported our mission,” said JFS CEO Kevin Keefer. “Mental health across the United States is a crisis situation. JFS has a long history of providing mental health services.”

The event will take place at the Rose Lehrman Arts Center at HACC and feature a musical performance and Q&A with conductor and founder Ronald Braunstein and the musicians. Additionally, guests will view clips from the award-winning documentary, “Orchestrating Change,” which showcases the orchestra.

Me2/ is the only orchestra in the world for people living with mental illness, Keefer said. He noted that Braunstein founded the organization after he was diagnosed with bipolar disorder. The organization is focused on eliminating the stigmas surrounding mental health and creating a safe space for musicians.

“My biggest hope is that people get inspired like I was,” Keefer said. “Mental health impacts so many lives.”

Keefer said that the fundraising event is also crucial in helping JFS continue its community services, such as mental health counseling, family crisis intervention, adoption and foster care, Kosher Meals on Wheels and a food pantry.

For more information about Jewish Family Service’s event and to purchase tickets, visit their website or call 717-233-1681.

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Weekend Roundup with Sara Bozich

May 1, 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 Millworks rooftop deck is open for the season; Harrisburg Beach Club is back at it Worth noting: Saturday is Derby Day! Things on my agenda this weekend: Dinner out Thursday, impromptu deck hang with the girls Fri, youth baseball Saturday, influencer dinner Sunday, and idk, should we clean out the garage this weekend, too?

For your weekend planning

Enter to WIN a $100 Millworks gc from HomeRite
How ’bout a road trip down to Mason Dixon Distillery?
See what else you missed on the blog

Below are more options for your weekend.

A Look Ahead

May 16: WXPN Welcomes Tanjo & Crow with special guest Virginia Masland LIVE in Strawberry Square
May 17: Plein Air Art Walk in downtown Camp Hill
May 26: SoMa Block Party | May 2025 – season kick-off!
Full SoMa Block Party calendar!
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!

Report: Harrisburg finances stable, but significant challenges lie ahead

April 30, 2025 | by Lawrance Binda

Harrisburg’s MLK City Government Center

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

On Tuesday, 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.

“The board members of the ICA remain committed to bringing their diverse backgrounds and experience to help the city promote growth and sustainability,” said ICA Board Chair Doug Hill, in a statement. “Working together, we know that the possibility of prosperity lies ahead.”

To view the full report, visit the ICA website, click “Resources” and then download the PDF at “Authority Section 203 Annual Report of City of Harrisburg Finances FY 2024.”

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

Susquehanna Chorale to Present My Spirit Sang All Day

April 29, 2025 | by Admin

The Susquehanna Chorale, a nationally acclaimed adult chamber ensemble of 40 auditioned singers, will present its spring concert series, My Spirit Sang All Day, May 16-18, under the direction of Linda L. Tedford.

The series begins on Friday, May 16 at Derry Presbyterian Church, Hershey, 7:30 p.m.; Saturday, May 17 at Market Square Presbyterian Church in Harrisburg, 7:30 p.m. and Sunday, May 18 at the Calvin and Janet High Center for Performing Arts, Messiah University, 4:00 p.m.

My Spirit Sang All Day features a varied and wonderful collection of pieces including sacred selections by Hubert Parry’s triumphant I Was Glad and Psalm 90 by Charles Ives, John Rutter’s God Be In My Head, and Shawn Kirchner’s energetic and uplifting Cornerstone. You’ll also hear Elaine Hagenberg’s The Music of Stillness, Eric Whitacre’s Sing Gently, and Randall Stroop’s Omnia Sol, followed by songs including Short People, What Shall We Do With The Drunken Sailor, and Buffalo Gals. Let your spirit sing with us in a concert that reflects all the colors found in the kaleidoscope of our lives.

A pre-concert recital by Susquehanna Chorale accompanist, Daniel L. Dorty will be presented 15 minutes prior to each performance.

The Susquehanna Chorale was founded by Linda L. Tedford in 1981 and is a recipient of Chorus America’s most prestigious award, the Margaret Hillis Achievement Award for Choral Excellence. They have also been considered for GRAMMY-nomination several times for their recordings.

In 2011, Conductor Tedford was honored by the American Choral Directors Association of Pennsylvania with the Elaine Brown Award for lifelong commitment to excellence and leadership in the choral art. In 2013, she received Theatre Harrisburg’s Award for Distinguished Service to the Arts in the Capital Region. In 2022 Tedford was the recipient of the Central Penn Journal’s Circle of Excellence Award.

The Chorale is funded, in part, by the Pennsylvania Council on the Arts, a state agency funded by the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.

Tickets may be purchased through the Susquehanna Chorale website at https://susquehannachorale.org/performances or by calling the Messiah University Box Office at (717) 691-6036, Option #1. Discount tickets are available for groups of 10 or more.

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SoMa Block Parties set to return for the summer in May

April 29, 2025 | by Maddie Gittens

A past SoMa Block Party. Photo by Michael Yatsko Photography.

Starting next month, a favorite Harrisburg neighborhood get-together returns for the season.

SoMa Block Parties will kick off for the summer on Thursday, May 29, bringing back music, food and community to the downtown block, announced Sara Bozich and Harristown Enterprises on Tuesday.

Each month, the block of S. 3^rd Street between Market and Chestnut streets will close to vehicle traffic, businesses will stay open late, and food and drink vendors will set up shop. Craft breweries and wineries, non-alcoholic drink vendors and food trucks will participate.

Additionally, each block party will feature live music and yard games.

This season’s musical lineup includes Mark DeRose & the Dreadnaughts (May), Cass and The Bailout Crew (June), Vivid Vinyl (July), Smokehouse 4 (August), and Oversoon with special guest Comb Over Here (September).

Block Parties run from 6 to 10 p.m. Parking is free for most of downtown after 5 p.m.

SoMa Block Party dates are as follows:

6-10 p.m. Thursday, May 29
5-9 p.m. Friday, June 20 – Juneteenth SoMa Block Party with YPOC and HYP
6-10 p.m. Thursday, June 26
6-10 p.m. Thursday, July 31
6-10 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 28
6-10 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 25

For more information, visit Sara Bozich’s website.

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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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