Tag Archives: Art

Have Art Will Travel: The Mount Gretna Chronicles, Part III: Art of the Jigger

July 30, 2025 | by Bob MacGinnes

The Jigger Shop

If you have ever wondered how articles in TheBurg come about, I can only share my experience. As a writer I count my blessings. My editor grants me the latitude to create my own topics as long as they are art related. You may ask, “What is a Jigger?” If you have heard of it, how would it qualify as art?

Over the past 12 months, I have been writing about the environ of Mt. Gretna. A wee bit outside of my art purview but perfect for August—can there truly be a better month for ice cream? The Jigger Shop is much more than a sundae. It is a page in Mt. Gretna’s photo album for eternity.

Colloquial Charm

When Mt. Gretna was created in the early 1880s, iron ore magnate Robert Coleman envisioned a resort community. His blueprint was a picnic grove where visitors could relax for an afternoon and enjoy the fruits of summer. A lake was created by damming the Conewago Creek. A railroad station was built, and a narrow-gauge rail line was laid from the park up the mountain to Governor Dick Tower. The lookout provided a panoramic view that spanned four counties. Its cement tower allows one to survey the surrounding countryside and remains a great spot for hikers and day-trippers. The picnic grove for summer visitors became the foundation ultimately for a hotel, a railroad, dancing and skating pavilions, picnic benches, a restaurant, a shooting gallery, a bowling alley and even a ballfield. With the advent of the Pennsylvania Chautauqua in 1892, many disciplines sprung up to include religion, philosophy, music, literature and the fine arts. Those aspects continued to expand as Mt. Gretna entered the 20th century.

A Jigger History

A Lebanon county destination, the Jigger Shop is found in the heart of Mt. Gretna. Charlie Myers, a Harrisburg tailor by profession, opened a summer pavilion in 1895 under his name, and it remained Myers Pavilion through the mid-1920s. Known for its bon-bons, its menu grew over time.

“Legend has it that two girls vacationing in Gretna for the summer would stop in every afternoon,” stated Drew Allwein, owner of the Jigger Shop for over 50 years. “The girls came up with a unique sundae combination which they loved. The very next day, they came back and asked the waitress if she could make that jigger again.”

“Jigger” at that time was an abbreviated term for “thingamajig,” and the name soon caught on with customers who asked for the Jigger. So much so that the business would switch its name from Myers Pavilion to “The Jigger Shop.”

Since those days, the Jigger Shop has changed owners seven times. The Allwein family was its longest owners, dating back to 1963 when Chuck and Charlotte Allwein purchased the restaurant. Son Drew and wife Linda then ran the business up through 2017. In 2018, the extended Seyfert family of Lebanon County purchased the legendary parlor. Today, Kyle Seyfert keeps it chugging along, much like the railroad passing through Gretna all those years ago.

The Jigger Shop is in great hands under Kyle’s watchful eyes. Each day, he can be found behind the counter or even doing the dishes. Those very tasks endear him to his employees, who keep coming back summer after summer.

“Some places, like the Jigger Shop, don’t need reinvention,” Kyle said. “They just need people who care enough to keep them steady. The Jigger Shop has been that kind of place for over a century, and now it’s my turn to help carry it forward—not by making it new, but by keeping what always works.”

Creative Expressions

At the Jigger, feel free to relax and enjoy the leisurely pace of summer. After all, you are in the land where time stands still, and memories become second nature. Umbrellas, under the canopy of trees, serve the weather’s uncertainty and provide shade for the outside tables. Parlor seating indoors. with ceiling fans humming, ward off the heat and humidity. The soda fountain stools are a throwback to yesteryear as one conjures the two young ladies creating the original Jigger sundae. The order desk at the front showcases posters that line the high-ceilinged wall from the halcyon days of Mt. Gretna’s theater productions. The stained-glass lamps over the tabletops add the perfect finishing touch.

Anything crafted by hand is a form of art, and making a Jigger sundae qualifies as a true expression of creativity. The confection is comprised of 2½ scoops of French vanilla ice cream and whipped marshmallow, chocolate or butterscotch syrup with nuts. The Jigger Shop has remained a constant Gretna favorite, evoking nostalgia and memories handed down over its storied history.

One can work up quite an appetite going to the lookout tower at Governor Dick or traversing the Lebanon Valley rail trails. Perhaps a better bet may be to take The Ice Cream Spur Trail portion. A short walk through the former grounds of the Mt. Gretna Amusement Park will provide access to all the area attractions, including the Jigger Shop, hence the name, the Ice Cream Spur—though its vast menu offers so much more than ice cream. The Jigger’s choices tout 71 delights not including Pennsylvania Dutch birch and root beer in frosted mugs. Ice cream sundaes total 22 options. Don’t forget about lunch as the Jigger Shop is open daily from noon until 9 p.m. every day except Monday. Now you know there is much more to the Jigger than just the Jigger!

The Jigger Shop has been a part of so many central Pennsylvania lives over its 130-year history. Today, the Jigger community spans many generations, with a vast legion of fans, patrons and friends. Students from the surrounding area, whose parents also worked there, continue the tradition, all sharing a genuine affection and appreciation for what the Jigger Shop represents. As far as ambiance goes, summer nights in Gretna hold a magic all their own. When the lights come on at twilight, the ice cream always tastes better. There’s a saying in Mt. Gretna that you truly haven’t experienced the “flavor” of the area until you savored a “Jigger,” and its secret ingredient? A liberal sprinkling of pixie dust—after all, you are in Mt. Gretna!

The Jigger Shop is located at 202 Gettysburg Ave., Mt. Gretna. For more information, visit www.jiggershop.com. A heartfelt thanks to Jack Bitner and his comprehensive book on the history of the region, “Mount Gretna, A Coleman Legacy.”

August Art Arrivals

August beckons, which means Mt. Gretna is at its peak of artistic expression.

The month kicks off with the annual Cicada Music Festival, which runs Aug. 4 to 12. Meanwhile, the Gretna Playhouse bustles all summer long with performances in its cavernous amphitheater. A Saturday morning is reserved for the younger set with timely children’s theater geared for the entire family.

The 51st Annual Mt. Gretna Outdoor Art Show, one of the country’s best art festivals, returns Aug. 16 to 17. Back at the helm again this year is festival director, Kerry Royer. Mt. Gretna’s International Film Festival is also back, running that same weekend. The film festival is dedicated to the memory of Michael Evan Dietzler.

Your choice film or art—the skilled will find a means to do both, but can you do it while juggling a Jigger?

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Eight artists to paint murals throughout Harrisburg’s Hall Manor community

June 13, 2025 | by Maddie Gittens

Artist Shawn Dunwoody

Hall Manor in Harrisburg is set to get some added color in the coming weeks.

Harrisburg-based Sprocket Mural Works announced that eight artists are preparing to paint murals throughout the housing development community from June 22 to 28.

Three city artists, as well as five nationally known artists, have been commissioned by Sprocket to paint several wall murals, a sidewalk mural and a mural on a basketball court.

“We chose each artist for a reason. They were selected from more than 440 applicants we received in January,” said Lex Jones, Sprocket’s communications chair. “Each one brings something different to the project. They are all incredibly talented. It’s such an all-star team.”

As part of the project, Sprocket will paint the exterior of the Boys & Girls Club of Harrisburg as well.

In preparation, Sprocket volunteers conducted significant community outreach, surveying hundreds of Hall Manor residents. Results showed that residents were interested in art that featured inspirational people, nature and a variety of cultures represented. In April, artists each presented two concepts, and volunteers went door-to-door and hosted a pizza party at the Boys & Girls Club to make the selections. A total of 1,238 votes were cast.

Sprocket’s project works in partnership with the Harrisburg Housing Authority and its South Harrisburg Choice Neighborhood plan.

Artists for the project include Sharnee Burnett, Dionn Williams and Sarah Eberly, all Harrisburg-based. Additionally, Colombian-American artist Sofia Rami will work with Harrisburg artist Reina R76. Washington-based artist Miles Toland, North Carolina-based artist Osiris Rain, Bay-area couple MJ Lindo-Lawyer and Joshua Lawyer, and Rochester-based artist Shawn Dunwoody, will round out the crew.

Ramirez will lead volunteers and members of the Boys & Girls Club in painting a sidewalk mural leading to the building.

Community volunteers help prime walls.

“I hope these murals allow the people of the Hall Manor community to find pride and ownership in the public art that will shape their environment. I hope the kids from the Boys and Girls Club will see the power of creativity and leave the experience feeling more confident in themselves,” she said. “This mural will be a connecting pathway from the residential buildings to the community spaces, filling the corridor with color and joy.”

Burnett will paint a wall mural of writer Maya Angelou, a figure chosen by the community.

“Giving the community something beautiful and having the opportunity to connect with them throughout the process means a lot to me,” Burnett says. “I’m truly excited to experience the journey of creating this mural from start to finish. Having the chance to paint a historical figure to uplift the community is an honor.”

For more information about Sprocket Mural Works, visit their website.

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Have Art Will Travel: “We Art Penn State!”

May 29, 2025 | by Bob MacGinnes

The Palmer Museum of Art. Photos by Jana MacGinnes

The above title is a slight variation on the instantly recognizable fall chant, “We are Penn State!” the familiar roar heard throughout the college football season. And here are two other reasons: The Palmer Museum of Art and the Arboretum at Penn State.

As a graduate student back at the turn of the century (the 21st), I was fortunate to review a special art exhibit at the original Palmer, clandestinely cloistered in the heart of the Penn State campus. The museum then was in a railroad car-size of a building, narrow and long on Curtin Road. Just a little shy of a quantum leap (two dozen years) later, the newly opened Palmer is a dream destination well worth the 90-minute drive from Harrisburg. Today, “the little museum that could” is a massive, two-story granite, glass and blond wood shrine to art celebrating its one-year anniversary in its new locale at the Arboretum.

In its first three months from June through August of last summer, over 25,000 art lovers walked through its doors. That is pretty heady stuff, even for a university the size of Penn State. The Palmer is known as “the museum for academics” as well as the largest museum between Philadelphia and Pittsburgh. Designed by Allied Works, the museum houses 20 galleries on two floors with inspirational views of the grounds of the Arboretum next door.

On our visit to the Palmer this past fall, we were astounded at the breadth of art before our eyes. First and foremost, the building itself is its largest work of beauty—a testament to farsighted visionaries, patience, perseverance and time. The Palmer celebrated its 50th anniversary in 2022 knowing that, in just a few years, the new museum would be finished. It opened its doors on June 1, 2024, to a resounding response, especially given that the summer school season sees fewer students, activities and events. However, as part of the arboretum’s grand appeal, there was much fanfare and built-up anticipation for its grand opening. Like the “Field of Dreams,” “build it and they will come,” and they did, in record numbers. Now, a full year later, there is much to celebrate as the Palmer is a must-see stop from Wednesdays through Sundays, its days of operation.

During our pilgrimage, we were blessed with an uncommonly warm early November day. Sally Kalin, our art ambassador, graciously gave us a tour, representing the museum in the very best light. Sally readily shared her own “best of” picks, giving us an erudite assessment of the history, relevance and meaning behind many major American paintings. She has served as board president during her 12 years at the Palmer, and present day finds her doing what she does best—sharing the back stories, “a true labor of love,” she divulged. As for her personal favorite work, it is George Luks’ oil-on-canvas, “Thompson and Bleecker Street,” painted in 1905 and later donated by the Palmers themselves. If that wasn’t the best museum experience we’ve had in our seven years covering art, I’m not sure what is. We also spoke at great length with Penn State student Sophia Heltman, on desk duty that Sunday as a visitor’s associate and tour guide.

“Working at the Palmer at its new home next to the Arboretum has been exciting,” she told us. “Getting to tour visitors and see their reactions to the new space has been fulfilling. It’s great to see the turnout and everyone’s engagement with the collections.”

Located in University Park, this modern monument to art is chockablock full, floor to ceiling of one gallery after another. It boasts its own museum store and café. As a key component of Penn State’s land grant mission, the Palmer is a cultural conduit serving scholars, faculty and the university’s 85,000 students. The 11,000 works of art span the globe and cover periods from the Renaissance to the 21st century, with mediums ranging from paintings and sculptures to prints, drawings and photographs. In addition, there are collages, works on paper, pastels, contemporary studio glass, watercolor and ceramics. Joyce Robinson, interim director, weighed in on what the new museum and arboretum mean to her.

“Our new location at the Arboretum has already greatly expanded access to the Palmer and it’s exceeding expectations,” she said. “There is always something new to see in our light-filled galleries.”

Sarah Wharton, the museum’s marketing and communications director, estimates that 75,000 people will visit the new museum over its first year of operation.

Perhaps the best complement to your visit is the 395-acre Arboretum at Penn State, adjacent to the Palmer. This is the perfect time of year to visit, as spring and summer provide the lushest scenery with sunflowers, black-eyed Susans and cone flowers in bloom, in addition to roses, clematis and irises. The beautiful, serene setting is perfect for picnics with benches throughout the grounds, as well as hidden nooks and crannies. Walking trails include the 1.3-mile Bellefonte Central Rail Trail. Be sure to spend time at the Childhood’s Gate Children’s Garden, Pollinator Garden and Bird Garden. A magical encounter on the verdant grounds leads one to the H.O. Smith Botanic Garden and 10 acres of themed garden spaces with another 14 acres of walking paths and rolling meadows to explore. Our favorite part was the iris walk and garden bower bathed by wisteria. Be sure to pack water for the adventure, and comfortable walking shoes are a must. With seasonal activities taking place on most days, the Arboretum has classes geared for children from early June through the end of August. A family pumpkin festival is held in October with a winter version set for the holidays in December.

No matter the time of year, the Palmer Museum of Art is high on our list of art museums anywhere. This summer is perfect for a getaway road trip or overnight stay. The campus is less congested, the art and arboretum await, and the weather forecast is nothing but blue skies. So, hop in the car, put the top down, and cruise on to State College. When you pull up outside the museum doors, be sure to cheer, “We are Penn State!” For us, art is something to roar about!

The Palmer Museum of Art is located at 650 Bigler Rd., University Park. For more information, visit www.palmermuseum.psu.edu. The Arboretum at Penn State is located at E. Park Avenue and Bigler Road, University Park. For more information, visit www.arboretum.psu.edu. Admission to both is free.

Special thanks to the staff of the Palmer Museum, including Sally Kalin, Sophia Heltman, Sarah Wharton and Joyce Robinson.

Photos by Jana MacGinnes

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Harrisburg’s Artsfest to return to riverfront for Memorial Day weekend

May 14, 2025 | by Maddie Gittens

Harrisburg Mayor Wanda Williams, and other local officials and artists, announced the details of Artsfest at City Hall.

Harrisburg’s big celebration of the arts will return this Memorial Day weekend.

The city announced the details of Artsfest on Wednesday, an art, music and food event that will take over Riverfront Park from May 24 to 26.

“I am proud to say that this year’s event is shaping up to be one of the best ever yet,” said Mayor Wanda Williams.

During the weekend, over 200 artists will set up shop in the park and along N. Front Street, from Forster to Walnut streets. Art will be exhibited from a wide array of mediums, including ceramics, paintings, photography, fiber, sculptures, jewelry, wood and more.

Additionally, the HBG Flea will bring in 40 local vendors of their own, and the Civic Club of Harrisburg will also host up-and-coming local artists at its downtown venue.

Another art form, music and dance, will also take the stage near State Street with bands, musicians and dance groups. Jazzfest will also return with 15 acts, including the Wednesday Club, which will present a classical music series at the Art Association of Harrisburg’s building.

While visitors enjoy the art and music, they can grab a bite to eat. The city will have 25 food trucks on site offering everything from dumplings to empanadas and cheesesteaks.

There will also be a beer and wine garden near the entertainment stage, featuring local breweries and wineries.

For families, KidsFest will offer face painting, balloon animals, puppet making, and other free children’s activities.

Artsfest also typically features a large-scale interactive art piece for the community to contribute to. This year, attendees can carve custom stamps to be printed on cloths and wrapped around planters and placed downtown. As part of that activity, local artists Dionn Renee, Eric Tonzola, Gloriajean Martin and the duo Robert Davis and Caroline Laurent will live-paint additional planters.

New this year, guests can ride a vintage-style trolley on Saturday, May 24, which will travel to city murals, restaurants and breweries. Two themed tours are available, one with food tastings at three restaurants, and another featuring sweets, local brews and public art. Space is limited. To sign up, visit harrisburgpa.gov/artsfest.

Starting at 9 a.m. on Friday, May 23, Front Street will be closed, from Forster to Walnut streets, until Monday, May 26 at 11 p.m.

Downtown street parking is free on Sunday and Monday, and after 5 p.m. on Saturday. Parking on City Island is $5 per day throughout the weekend. The River Street Garage offers $5 parking from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturdays, and the Market Square Garage is $10 from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. for the weekend.

For more information about Artsfest, visit Harrisburg’s website.

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Have Art Will Travel: Mount Gretna’s Drive-in “Theater”—MG Mercantile

March 28, 2025 | by Bob MacGinnes

MG Mercantile

The history-rich hamlet of Mt. Gretna is home to many things to do and see—biking and hiking trails, a playhouse, a lake and beach for swimming, a mini golf course, a roller rink, a tennis court, a textile gallery, an ice-cream parlor, specialty restaurants, and now, a drive-in “theater” of the most unique manner.

No car-side speakers, no big outdoor screen, and no concession stand and yet provisions and supplies are its mainstays. No movie is needed as you will be entertained, enchanted and enlightened when you pull up to Mt. Gretna Mercantile, a mere 33 minutes from Harrisburg. To think this rare jewel of a store exists in Mt Gretna is a treasure indeed, even better than buttered popcorn. Picture everything imaginable from A to Z, the absolute best outpost. Like the drive-in experience promises, this is a double feature delight.

Kismet in the Pines

Nothing in life happens randomly. “A visit to a friend’s cabin in 2022,” shared Tanya Mann, brought the store’s future owners, Tanya and Jeff Grimshaw to Mt. Gretna. Was it a crystal ball moment or just imagining the possibilities of what the property held in store (no pun intended), one will never know for sure. The property was the former home of a storied bank in Mt. Gretna lore. But first things first. Tanya imagined the site’s potential for what was to be—opening a dream destination drive-in (not literally mind you) but an emporium that is “Retail Theater” everywhere you look. When Tanya and Jeff purchased the building, major renovations needed to take place. Tanya outfitted the building’s interior and became emotionally invested in the idea of entrepreneurship, something the couple knows well. They are authors as well as consultants and motivational speakers to businesses worldwide. Her vision was crystal clear for the future, even with no retail experience, other than as a shopper. “After all, Mt. Gretna deserved a gem of a store,” she said.

Way It Used to Be

Remember when going to town to shop was a fun experience back in the day? Merchants took great pride in window displays and setting the stage inside like a movie set. MG Mercantile’s aesthetic speaks to those special times when artistic presentation greeted the customers as soon as they entered. The store’s ambience is one of a lifestyle still embraced from the coast of Maine to the Adirondacks, a “lodge of like-minded adventurers” dropping in to catch up on local news, stock up on supplies, and visit with old acquaintances. It’s a place where strangers and visitors passing through become friends before they leave the store. MG Mercantile is the embodiment of the best shopping experience imaginable as it combines presentation and product under one roof.

Page from History

“When I purchased the property in September 2022, I knew I was taking on a piece of Mt. Gretna’s history,” Tanya shared. The building that now houses MG Mercantile was constructed in 1975-76. Lebanon County Trust commissioned a recent Yale architecture graduate to design a bank that reflected the style of a Mt. Gretna cottage, Tanya said. The result was a structure that fit seamlessly into the charm of the area. Shortly after the bank opened, it became the scene of an unforgettable moment in local lore.

The bank tellers were preparing to close the morning operations when an armed bandit forced them into the wide-open vault and made off with about $25,000. “Luckily, they had already triggered the bank alarm and hastening to flee, he closed the door but did not spin the vault dial shut. The crime remains unsolved, but a few longtime residents can think of a troublemaker or two that fit the description,” Tanya revealed. That day was the most talked about in the bank’s history until MG Mercantile opened its doors mid-summer 2023. The polished bank vault is more than just a footnote in the annals of Gretna but lays claim to that surreal scene highlighted by a plaque and accompanying news article. Today, the bank’s structural components remain in place as they did when Penn Realty occupied the space after the bank closed.

Essence of MG Mercantile

The facilitator of all things magical is Tanya, who is full of ideas, imagery and inspiration. Her personal touch is felt in every aspect of the business—from the hand-carved canoe suspended from the ceiling in the main room to shelves stocked to the gills, as the fish are always running in Conewago Lake. The “MERC” is filled with supplies for day hikers, campers, bikers and residents of the village, as well as visitors passing through the wooded glens. Pulling up to MG Mercantile’s parking lot, you will find an inviting shaded patio and lovely landscaped grounds complete with a front porch downhome feel, having arrived at an oasis of warmth and wonder. Entering the store’s foyer, you step into an atmosphere that looks like a Hollywood-styled canteen of 1940s glamour. Just imagine the movie stars have already gone back to complete their makeup for the next scene, so the stage is yours. Make yourself at home, fascinated by the layout and decor and the endless array of goods before your eyes. Settle in for a while and read about “The Great Bank Heist” in black and white newsprint and that bank vault you see—it was the main actor in the real event. They play a true-to-life part of the stage set that Tanya adroitly lays out in each room, providing a theater of the mind and a feast for the eyes, whose allure is both colloquial and chimerical, balancing tradition and the zeitgeist of the day.

The shop is stocked with all the basics from ramen noodles to pasta sauces, chili crisps, a medley of condiments, a smorgasbord of cheeses, preserves, spreads, pickled foods, jams, shelf-stable nut milks, ice coffees, popcorn, crackers and specialty sodas. Mixers for cocktails provide plenty of choices for entertaining. Dry goods include kitchen items, aprons, tea towels, gardening tools, art, books and Mt. Gretna-inspired merchandise. Rounding out the myriad selections are home decor, soaps and fragrance diffusers as well as lavender sachets. Tanya prides herself on sourcing products from local suppliers. With April’s arrival, the Mercantile springs ahead with new vistas beyond the store’s motto: “curated goods, groceries and gifts.” They are expanding to include a “Canopy of Classes,” that include wreath making, creating small art mosaics, container gardening and pastel art projects. The classes started in March and will run through December with themes geared for the seasons at hand. In addition, a drive-through pickup may not be too far off in the distance as the bank had a drive-up window.

On a visit this past fall, my wife surprised me with one of the Mercantile’s featured items, a coffee table book, “Porches of Mt. Gretna: A Photo Journal” by author Kerry Royer and photographer, Shannon Fretz. As I met Kerry earlier last summer for a featured article on Mt Gretna, the purchase was all the more special as it is a signed edition. For those who love Gretna as much as we do, this is a true treasure.

Mt. Gretna is a community built on “gratitude,” something special that resides in the hearts of its residents. This two-way affair of appreciation is felt by Tanya and Jeff who are as excited about the hamlet’s welcoming support as the townspeople are thrilled to have the Mercantile’s curated contents and convenience so readily available. The shop has become a place of pride and distinction for the area. The marquee out front reads now playing: “MG Mercantile and Mt. Gretna,” the perfect double feature.

MG Mercantile is located at 501 PA-117, Mt. Gretna. For more information, visit www.mgmercantile.com or call at 717-675-9730.

Photo by Jana MacGinnes.

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Arts Assist: The Charles Bruce Foundation offers a boost for writers, artists, musicians

February 27, 2025 | by Susan Ryder

Charles Bruce

For 10 years, a local foundation has been making the idea of the “starving artist” less of a reality.

The Carlisle-based Charles Bruce Foundation supports musicians and artists by providing them with paid work opportunities through performing at local nonprofit events and illustrating books for its nonprofit publishing house.

“Everybody wants you [artists] to work for free,” said Pat LaMarche, the self-proclaimed “chief cook and bottle washer” for the foundation.

Nonprofits simply don’t have funds for the luxury of music at events, so the Charles Bruce Foundation assists by providing those funds. Libraries, shelters and the Carlisle Arts Learning Center (CALC) have been on the receiving end of that assistance.

“Because they support writers, artists and musicians, if we are having an event, they will pay for a musician,” said Catherine Stone, CALC executive director. “Because, of course, we all believe artists should get paid for their work.”

In a collaborative effort, CALC hosts book launches for the foundation. Last fall, CALC facilitated an art show focused on the Charles Bruce Foundation book, “American Roulette,” which highlights gun violence in America.

“Many times, we have a book come out, and we have the artists provide the artwork and then do an art show,” LaMarche said. “Then you can buy the book and maybe a piece of original art.”

Revenue from books provides a portion of the funding for the foundation. These books include “The Priscilla” series, which addresses family homelessness; “The Doody Story,” which, as the title suggests, is about potty products; and “Humble Pie,” which offers stories about hunger and recipes that stretch the dollar.

“What we offer to authors is the opportunity to be published,” LaMarche said.

Literacy is another important focus of the foundation, which has given away over 10,000 books through its 10-year history. Children can walk into a Cumberland County system library and request a free copy of a Charles Bruce Foundation book.

“We want to get books into the hands of kids,” LaMarche said. “When you read the studies, if a child owns 12 of their own books, they’re twice as likely to finish high school.”

Really Proud

All this writer, artist and musician aid began with the foundation’s namesake, Charles Bruce.

Charles Bruce was a lieutenant colonel who, with his wife, helped rebuild Austria after World War II. While there, they visited an orphanage and met a little boy, who became their son, Chad Bruce. Chad was the opposite of his father.

“This military man who fought in World War II, Korea and four tours of Vietnam, he was highly decorated, adopts a kid who likes to draw pictures and sing songs,” LaMarche said. “And he doesn’t get mad at him. He takes the door off the hinges and makes him an art table.”

Chad birthed the Charles Bruce Foundation from an intense gratitude for his parents’ support of his artistic nature.

“I feel fortunate that I was given opportunities to pursue my creative goals, and the extent that I can provide others with similar opportunities is my desire,” said Chad Bruce, the foundation’s executive director.

His parents would likely be proud of his awards that came in the form of musical accomplishments as a harmonicist, playing at President Barack Obama’s inauguration, and his exceptional talents as a book designer and artist.

The foundation began out of Chad’s dream to help artists, but with no real plan for how to do that. Then he met LaMarche.

“Before, I was just hoping something would happen, but I didn’t quite know what,” he said. “Patty showed me, and, together, we worked on it and have made a success of it.”

Today, Chad uses his skills on the drawing board, doing much of the book designing. LaMarche contributes as a writer, but also as an organizer and logistician.

LaMarche employed the latter skill three years ago to begin the Homeless Memorial Blanket project. This social justice art display involves coordinating and collecting hundreds of hand-crocheted, knitted and quilted blankets and uniting them on the ground to make a giant art memorial to those who have died homeless on the streets. The project grew from an interaction that LaMarche had with a young woman with an intellectual disability who told her, “I just want to crochet all day,” LaMarche said.

The Charles Bruce Foundation receives blankets from this young woman each year, and it is taking the project to Denver in 2026.

People interested in assisting young artists, promoting literacy, or publishing a book can do that by donating, by contacting the foundation about receiving books for a class or group, or by sending a book proposal.

The Charles Bruce Foundation brightens the area by making it more financially feasible for artists to ply their craft.

“I’m a musician, and my wife is a writer,” Chad Bruce said. “To be able to help young people to further their interests and careers in those areas and do that to a successful degree, that really makes me proud.”

For more information on the Charles Bruce Foundation, visit www.charlesbrucefoundation.com.

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Landmark Anniversary: The Millworks celebrates a decade of art, fine dining and community

February 27, 2025 | by Skye Leppo

On March 12, 2015, a long line of people stood outside of a long-shuttered Harrisburg landmark, ready to snip the ribbon on one of the city’s most ambitious adaptive reuse projects.

After a lengthy renovation, the Millworks was finally open, creating an inviting centerpiece for artists and foodies to converge.

Originally, owner Josh Kesler imagined that a part of the sprawling, 1930s-era building would house a collaborative space for bands, recording studios and the like.

“But with noise constraints and the opening of the Susquehanna Art Museum, I thought art might be a better direction,” he said. “[Artist] Tara Chickey gave me some encouragement, and she was right.”

Chickey was one of the initial curators who invited artists to fill the galleries, which today house the works of more than 40 creators across 17 unique studio spaces.

For John Davis, who has occupied Studio 321 since the Millworks opened 10 years ago, Chickey’s invitation was a dream.

“I jumped right at [the studio invitation] because it was something that I was always inspired to have but didn’t think I would have,” Davis said. “It was always a dream—not a plan, but a dream.”

Before construction was done, the vision admittedly was a bit tough to see.

“We literally had to climb the original old rickety stairs and there was basically a platform up there,” Davis said. “No walls, but a platform, and Tara showed us which window we could select.”

Dinner & Art

Early on, the restaurant was built with a mission to focus on creating a sustainable food network, grown from strong relationships with regional farmers to create menus inspired by locally sourced ingredients.

“One of the most surprising things in the early years was how well attended the dinner hours were. So many people had told me that we’d do great for lunch when everyone is in town, but struggle in the evenings,” Kesler said. “That has not been the case, and certainly our free parking on premises has probably helped that.”

The strong response encouraged Kesler to make more room, expanding the floor space. That capacity increases even more with folks who are interested just in grabbing a drink at the bar or dining al fresco on the rooftop.

“The Millworks is more than just a restaurant,” said artist Ann Benton Yeager.

Benton Yeager, who specializes in acrylics, oils and encaustics, has shared studio 103 with her parents, Linda Benton McCloskey and Robert McCloskey, since the very first day.

“It’s really, I think, an anchor to Midtown—one of many,” she said. “It’s become such a renaissance period for Midtown, and the Millworks really started that off.”

Davis echoes that belief.

“So many out-of-towners come to experience it and other parts of Midtown, which has really become a destination for outsiders,” he said.

The growth of the artistic community has been wonderful to see, Chickey added.

“There’s just so many more,” she said. “There’s a depth and a breadth that has expanded over the past 10 years when it comes to what is being created in the building.”

“So many different mediums,” added Molly Cooley, executive assistant at the Millworks. “And seeing it grow from a small concept to a brewery with so many more artists has been amazing.”

One of the more recent occupants is well-known Harrisburg artist and arts ambassador Reina “R76,” whose work is in Studio 318. For practicing an “outsider” art discipline, R76 is a great insider, acting as a liaison and mouthpiece for the local arts community, often advocating for greater unity.

“I was there for the ribbon cutting in 2015, but didn’t have a studio there until 2021,” said R76, who gives credit to her friend and former studio mate Andrew Sedgwick Guth for inviting her to share his space.

When Sedgwick Guth left the gallery in 2021, R76 invited the Huckle Buckle Boys into Studio 318. R76 later invited in up-and-coming Harrisburg photographer Jemar Sweets, whose work Harrisburgers might have seen under the name LensWorthy Imagery.

“Honestly, my experience has been phenomenal. The thing about it is that they really offer a lot,” Sweets said. “They give people opportunities as well: Odd Ones [market], of course, beer crawls, lots of different events, and it really is a phenomenal thing to have.”

It’s also brought Sweets more exposure and helped build his audience.

“I’ll have people coming up to me in Mechanicsburg, York and Hershey who will take a look at my work, and they always say, ‘Oh, I see your stuff at the Millworks now,’ and it just makes me feel good,” he said.

He credits R76 with being an inspiration for his drive. “She opened that door for me, and I really appreciate that every day.”

For her part, R76 touts the collaborative spirit of the Millworks.

“That’s what kept a lot of us there,” she said. “To create in a basement or studio without human interaction takes away from the ideas that you could possibly have. Meeting new people, new mindsets give me so much material for my artwork.”

Likewise, Davis cites the camaraderie among artists.

“I have been inspired multiple times by other artists to create my own works in a different form—mixing of mediums, or merging my own ideas from other people’s mediums,” he said.

It’s also a great atmosphere to get other opinions.

“That’s one of the greatest things—when asked, receiving feedback from other artists in order to grow,” he said.

That exchange of thoughts is open to visitors in the spaces, as well.

“When somebody asks me questions about my work, that is so fulfilling and gratifying,” said artist Tina Berrier. “That makes my day, even if they don’t want to purchase anything.

Berrier added that, in her time at the Millworks, she’s honed her discipline and point of view as an artist.

“People will walk up to me and be like oh, ‘that’s a Tina Berrier painting,’” she said. “As an artist, once your style is recognized, that’s a great thing.”

Evolving

About a year and a half after opening, Kesler announced a brewery would be added to the restaurant, with esteemed local brewer Terry Hawbaker taking over the reins of the brewery in 2023.

“I love the synergy that we have going with the art and the food and the brewery,” Chickey said. “There is a true respect between all the different elements of this business, and I think that’s what makes it so special.”

Artwork has even appeared on Millworks beer cans, a true synergy.

“I’ve had several beer cans,” Berrier said. “The brewmaster will see your painting and say, ‘Oh I think this’ll be great for this beer,’ and that’s always cool.”

Looking ahead to the next 10 years, more expansion is in store.

A few years ago, Kesler bought the Millworks’ “sister” building across the street, where, he said, he plans to relocate the brewery and add more art classes and events.

R76 has her own goals for the next decade.

“When there are many creatives together, we can find a way to bring art to the people without it being such a challenge—and that’s what I want from the next 10 years of the Millworks,” she said. “We need a lot more diversity, not just in gender but in lifestyle and in ethnicity—we have to start to reflect what we see in the city. Art is forever evolving.”

Anniversary Events

3/6 — Media Event in the Artists Common Room at 11 a.m.

3/13 — Student Art Show

3/14 — Pig Roast Luncheon to benefit first responders

3/19 — Beer Dinner in the public dining room

The Millworks is located at 340 Verbeke St., Harrisburg. For more information and a full list of classes, visit www.millworksharrisburg.com.

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

Happenings: Our December Calendar of Events

November 26, 2024 | by Missy Smith

Museums & Art Spaces

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

“Forgotten Features—Classic & Cool Discontinued Options,” through April 20

Shelby Mustangs, through April 20

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

“Ann Benton Yeager—A Timely Retrospective,” featuring some of Ann’s early work and the progression of her current work, through Jan. 3

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

Holiday Fine Art & Craft Show, Dec. 8-9

Arts on the Square
20 S. 2nd St., Harrisburg
717-257-1270; marketsquarechurch.org

“An Eclectic Mix—Works by Barbara Passeri-Warfel,” through Dec. 29

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

“Art for the Holidays & Guild: Creating Community,” through Dec. 24

“Go with the Grain,” an exhibit highlighting the fine craft of local woodworkers, Dec. 6-24; reception: Dec. 6, 5:30-7 p.m.

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

December artist of the month

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

Mid Penn Bank Art Show & Sale Reception & Awards, Dec. 6, 6-8 p.m., Millersburg

“MAAA Annual Holiday Show,” through Dec. 31

Gallo’ry on Market
2010 Market St., Camp Hill
717-623-2090; galloryonmarket.com

December featured artists: Robert and Barbara Buchanan, Richell Castellon and Paul Gallo

Hershey Area Art Association (HAAA)
hersheyart.org

HAAA Member Artwork at Hershey Public Library, hallway gallery, Dec. 14-Feb. 8

HAAA Member Artwork at Hershey Public Library, community room, through May 31

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

“Fired Up! A Celebration of Wood-Fired Ceramics,” Dec. 6-Feb. 1; reception: Dec. 6, 5-8 p.m.

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

“A Length of Time—A Retrospect of Works by Donald and Christine Forsythe,” through Dec. 15

“Class Exhibition—Approaches to Abstraction,” through Dec. 15

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

“The Overland Campaign of 1864,” through Jan. 31

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

Photographs of Millersburg by Kit Cowan, through Jan. 18; reception: Dec. 7, 1-4 p.m.

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

Art in the Stacks—Tiffany George & Cynthia Rudzis

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

Exhibits dedicated to Pennsylvania firefighting history

Perry County Council of the Arts
PCCA Gallery, 1 S. 2nd St., Newport
717-567-7023; perrycountyarts.org

“Frosty Finds,” a selection of curated holiday gifts by local artisans, Dec. 21

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

“Art of the State,” highlighting the commonwealth’s rich artistic heritage with a variety of artwork by 96 artists from 28 Pennsylvania counties, through Jan. 5

“Game Changers—Pennsylvania Women Who Made History,” celebrating women from across PA in diverse fields, detailing their contributions and challenges they faced in their lifetimes

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

“HORSE2AUTO: A Transportation Revolution”

“Seeing Fallingwater—Celebrating Pennsylvania’s Architectural Masterpiece”

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

“You Threaded in Me,” Morgan Ford Willingham manipulates found textiles with photography and hand embroidery, exploring motherhood and nature versus nurture, Dec. 4-Feb. 23

“The Hidden Museum” invites visitors to locate “hidden” works of art the Susquehanna Art Museum, through Dec. 31

“Domestic Affairs,” Susquehanna Art Museum’s ninth annual juried exhibition with artwork exploring subjects relating to the domestic, through Jan. 5

“Edvard Munch—Works on Paper from the John Szoke Gallery,” through Jan. 19

Suzanne H. Arnold Art Gallery
Lebanon Valley College
75 N. White Oak St., Annville
717-867-6445; lvc.edu/gallery

“Arts of Africa Speak,” stories and objects from two academic collections, Dec. 4-15

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

“The Legacy of Two Centuries of Black American Art,” celebrating the legacy of David Driskell’s groundbreaking 1976 exhibition, through Dec. 20

“Girl in Slacks—Women Artists From the Reading Public Museum,” through Jan. 25

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

Makers’ Market, Dec. 6, 12-8 p.m., and Dec. 7, 10 a.m.-3 p.m.

“Stolen Views II—New Lancaster Scenes,” featuring recent works created throughout Lancaster County by a local plein air artists, through Jan. 31.

Oil paintings by Deborah Kahn and sculptures by Shari Mendelson, exploring invented spaces and forms, through Feb. 22

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

“Fourth Annual Home for the Holidays” show, through Dec. 31

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

2024 Photo Contest Display, Dec. 10-Jan. 25; reception: Jan. 12, 1 p.m.

Read, Make, Learn

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

Dec. 3: Holiday Cards Watercolor Workshop (adults), 12-2 p.m.
Dec. 4 & 18: Watercolor Painting Step-by-Step (adults), 9:30 a.m.-4 p.m.
Dec. 5: Volunteer Workshop Fresh Pine Holiday Arrangements (adults), 10 a.m.-2 p.m.
Dec. 5: Paint Your House Watercolor Workshop (adults), 1-3 p.m.
Dec. 10, 11: Christmas Ball Mania (adults) 6-8 p.m.
Dec. 12: Sensational Silk Scarves (adults) 6-8 p.m.

Capital Blue Cross Connect
4500 Marketplace Way, Enola
capitalbluecrossconnect.com

Dec. 2, 9, 16, 23, 30: Tai Chi, 4 p.m.
Dec. 2, 9, 16, 23: Virtual Pilates, 5 p.m.
Dec. 2, 9, 16, 23, 30: Gentle Yoga Flow, 9:30 a.m.
Dec. 5, 12, 19, 26: Ready, Steady, Action! at Enola Store and Virtual, 4:15 p.m.
Dec. 6, 13, 20, 27: Strong + Fit, 10 a.m.
Dec. 9: Connect Monthly Webinar: Health Holidays, 11 a.m.
Dec. 11, 18: Virtual INSPIRE, 9 a.m.
Dec. 11, 18: Kickboxing + Strength, 4:30 p.m.

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

Dec. 2: Winter Wonderland (ages 6-12), 9 a.m.-3 p.m.
Dec. 6: Craft Beer & Clay
Dec. 7: Make an Ornament (ages 5-12), 10:30 a.m.-12 p.m.
Dec. 7: Beginner Oil Painting—Canvas Christmas Ornaments (ages 16-adult), 10 a.m.-3 p.m.
Dec. 14: Holiday Village (ages 6-12), 10:30 a.m.-12 p.m.
Dec. 14: Bronze Sand Casting Workshop—Bronze Ornaments, 11 a.m.-4 p.m.
Dec. 19: Holiday Cheer (ages 6-12), 9 a.m.-3 p.m.
Dec. 20: Holiday Cheer Round Two (ages 6-12), 9 a.m.-3 p.m.

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

Dec. 5, 19: Story Time and Craft (ages 3-6), 6:30 p.m.
Dec. 10: Family Game Night, 4:30-7:30 p.m.
Dec. 14: Library Christmas Party, 11 a.m.-1 p.m.
Dec. 18: Tea Light Snowman Ornament, 4:30-7:30 p.m.
Dec. 20: Friends of the Library Bag Sale, 9 a.m.-3 p.m.

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

Dec. 7: Figment Forge Writing Group, 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
Dec. 8: East Shore Cinema—“The Muppet Christmas Carol,” 2-4 p.m.
Dec. 15: The Year of Ghibli—“Princess Mononoke” (English dubbed version), 2-4 p.m.

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

Dec. 14: LEGO Club, 11 a.m.-12 p.m.
Dec. 17: Baby Musik Time, 9:50-10:20 a.m.
Dec. 17: Preschool Musik Time, 10:30-11 a.m.
Dec. 18: Homeschool Happening, 2-4 p.m.
Dec. 21: Book Discussion Group—“Little Bee,” 10 a.m.-12 p.m.
Dec. 21: K-Pets Therapy Reading Sessions, 10:30-11:30 a.m.

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

Dec. 8: Clear Toy Candy Demonstration, 12:30-4:30 p.m.
Dec. 14: Santa’s Reindeer and Mrs. Santa, 12:30-2:30 p.m.
Dec. 21: Candlelight Mansion Tour, 4:30-7 p.m.

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

Dec. 2, 9, 16, 23, 30: Baby & Toddler Storytime, 10-10:30 a.m.
Dec. 2, 9, 16, 23, 30: Children’s Storytime, 11-11:30 a.m.
Dec. 2, 16: Fredricksen Writes, 7 p.m.
Dec. 3: Curl Up with the Classics—“ Down and Out in Paris and London,” 10-11 a.m.
Dec. 5, 12, 19, 26: Meditation to Calm the Mind, 12-12:30 p.m.
Dec. 6: Peaceful Poses Adult Yoga, 9:15-10 a.m.
Dec. 7: The Puzzlers, 1-4:30 p.m.
Dec. 7, 14, 21, 28: Heartfulness Meditation Workshop, 1-2 p.m.
Dec. 9: Coffee (BYO) and Conversation, 10-11:30 a.m.
Dec. 9: The Puzzlers, 1:30-8:30 p.m.
Dec. 9: Philosopher’s Roundtable, 2-3:30 p.m.
Dec. 9, 16: Book Explorers, 5:30-6:30 p.m.
Dec. 12, 26: Journaling for Life, 6:30-8:30 p.m.
Dec. 15: Paint with Us, 1-3 p.m.
Dec. 19: Pop-Up Storytime, 11-11:30 a.m.
Dec. 20: Peaceful Poses Yoga Storytime for Preschoolers, 10-10:45 a.m.
Dec. 20: Family Paint & Pix!, 6-8 p.m.
Dec. 21: Neurodivergent Adult Support Group, 3 p.m.
Dec. 23: Fredricken Reads—“How to Build a Boat,” 7-8 p.m.
Dec. 29: Game Day for All, 1-4:30 p.m.

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

Dec. 1: Paint Strips Christmas Tree, 2-4 p.m.
Dec. 4: Fresh Evergreen Wreath, 6-7:30 p.m.
Dec. 5: Stained Glass Icicles with Beads, 6-8 p.m.
Dec. 8: Folk Art Poinsettia, 1-3 p.m.
Dec. 11: Boxwood Christmas Tree, 6-7:30 p.m.
Dec. 14: Kids Christmas Workshop, 1 to 3 p.m.

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

Dec. 5: Book Bingo, 5:30-6:30 p.m.

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

Dec. 7, 14, 21, 28, Jan. 4: Craft Christmas Creations, 9:30 a.m.-1 p.m.
Dec. 7, 21: Storytime with Mrs. Claus, 11 a.m.-12 p.m.
Dec. 14: Visit with Santa, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.

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

Dec. 2, 9, 16: Books and Babies, 10:15-10:45 a.m.
Dec. 2, 9, 16: Storytime for Everyone (preschool), 11-11:30 a.m.
Dec. 3: Hershey Area Pokémon Club, 5:30-7 p.m.
Dec. 3, 5, 10, 12, 17, 19, 26: Penn State Hershey—Mothers & Babies, 10:15 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
Dec. 3, 10, 17: 1, 2, Whee!, 10:15-10:45 a.m.
Dec. 4: LEGO Club, 4-4:45 p.m.
Dec. 4: Open Book Group, 6-7:45 p.m.
Dec. 4, 11, 18: Community Crochet Night—Teen Space, 6-7:45 p.m.
Dec. 5, 12, 19: Storytime for Everyone (preschool), 10:15-10:45 a.m.
Dec. 5, 12, 19: Teen Time, 3-4:30 p.m.
Dec. 5, 19: Hershey Quilters, 12-4 p.m.
Dec. 6-7: Pop-Up Booksale
Dec. 7, 14, 21, 28: Chess Club, 1-3 p.m.
Dec. 10: Philosophers’ Round Table Discussion Group, 2-3:30 p.m.
Dec. 11: MOMS Club of Derry Township, 10-11:30 a.m.
Dec. 11: Board Game Night, 5-7:45 p.m.
Dec. 14: Cocoa Area Fiber Enthusiasts, 10 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
Dec. 14: Holiday Wreath Making, 11 a.m.-1 p.m., 2-4 p.m.
Dec. 14: Painting—Snowmen or Ornaments, 2-4 p.m.
Dec. 18: Art Together, 5-7:45 p.m.

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

Dec. 8: Twigs & Digs—Late Fall Foraging Walk, 10 a.m.-12 p.m.
Dec. 8: Identifying Trees by Bark, 1-3:30 p.m.
Dec. 14: Holiday Gourmet—DIY Gifts from the kitchen, 10:30 a.m.-1 p.m.
Dec. 28: Guilt-Free Desserts for the New Year, 10:30 a.m.-1 p.m.

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

Dec. 6, 13, 20: LEGO Time, 10:15-11:15 a.m.
Dec. 2: Teen Movie Monday, 6-8:30 p.m.
Dec. 2, 9, 16, 23: Toddler Time, 10:45 a.m.-11:05 a.m.
Dec. 2, 9, 16, 23: Rhyme Time, 10:15-10:35 a.m.
Dec. 5, 12, 19, 26: Mah Jongg, 10 a.m.-1 p.m.
Dec. 9: Math Club, 6-7 p.m.
Dec. 12: Kindergarten Readiness, 1-2:15 p.m. or 6-7:15 p.m.
Dec. 14: Gingerbread House Workshop, 10:30-11:30 a.m., 12-1 p.m.
Dec. 16: STEAM Club, 6-7 p.m.
Dec. 16: Monday Night Book Club, 7-8 p.m.
Dec. 19: Thursday Morning Book Club, 10-11 a.m.
Dec. 19: Scrabble in the Library, 11 a.m.-1 p.m.
Dec. 21: Craft-A-Palooza, 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
Dec. 23: Tween Scene, 6-7 p.m.
Dec. 28: Trivia at Home—Year in Review, 6-8 p.m.

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

Dec. 4, 11, 18, 25: Common Roads (ages 12-17), 6-8 p.m.
Dec. 7, 14, 21, 28: Passageways, 2 p.m.
Dec. 8, 15, 22, 29: Young Adult Group, 4 p.m.
Dec. 14: QTPOC Advisory Group, 6-8 p.m.

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

Dec. 4: Inspiration Café, 3:30-4:30 p.m.

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

Dec. 10: Reading the Rainbow Book Club, 11 a.m.-12 p.m.

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

Dec. 8: Family Holiday Clay Ornament Workshop, 1-4 p.m.
Dec. 22: Acrylic Pouring Class, 1-4 p.m.

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

Dec. 7: Lessons in History—“Kidnapped at Sea, The Civil War Voyage of David Henry White,”, 1-2 p.m.

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

Dec. 7: Wreath Making Workshop, 9-11 a.m., 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m., 2-4 p.m.

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

Dec. 1-31: Musical Instrument Scavenger Hunt (ages 0-12)
Dec. 1-Jan. 3: Kids Cocoa Club (ages 0-18)
Dec. 2: Monday Great Books Discussion Group, 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
Dec. 2-6: Gingerbread LEGO Contest (ages 6-12)
Dec. 2, 16, 23: Teen Monday FUNdays (ages 13-17), 3-4 p.m.
Dec. 2, 16, 23: Cozy Preschool Storytime (ages 2-5), 10:30-11:15 a.m.
Dec. 3, 10, 17: Book Babies (ages 0-2), 11:15 a.m.-12 p.m.
Dec. 4: Dental Hygiene Storytime (ages 2-5), 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
Dec. 4: Kid Builders (ages 3 and older), 4:30-5:30 p.m.
Dec. 4: Piece Seekers, 6-7:30 p.m.
Dec. 5: Ruth’s Mystery Discussion Group, 10:15 a.m.-12 p.m.
Dec. 5, 12, 19, 26: Tech Time, 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
Dec. 5, 19: Musical Mornings (ages 2-5), 10:30-11 a.m.
Dec. 6: Block Party (ages 0-3) 10:30-11:30 a.m.
Dec. 6: Cumberland County Office of Veterans Affairs & Services, 12:30-2:30 p.m.
Dec. 7, 21: Book Sales, 9 a.m.-3 p.m.
Dec. 7-21: Take and Makes (ages 2-5)
Dec. 10: Shelf Love, 6-7 p.m.
Dec. 10: Tales for Tails (ages 6-12), 6:30-7:30 p.m.
Dec. 12: Movers and Groovers (ages 2-5), 10:30-11 a.m.
Dec. 13: Tumble Tots (ages 0-3), 10:30 a.m.-12 p.m.
Dec. 14: Teen Craft Kits (ages 13-17)
Dec. 17: Holiday Cookie Decorating (ages 3 and older), 4:30-5:30 p.m.
Dec. 18: Teen Crafternoon (ages 13-17), 3-4 p.m.
Dec. 19: Holiday Card Making Workshop, 10:30 a.m.-12 p.m.
Dec. 21: Couponing for Extreme Savings, 11 a.m.-12 p.m.
Dec. 28: Jigsaw Puzzle Competition, 2-4 p.m.

Palmyra Public Library
50 Landings Dr., Annville
717-838-1347; palmyra.lclibs.org

Dec. 2: Genealogy Group, 10-11 a.m.
Dec. 4, 11, 18: Strength & Stretching 50+, 10-11 a.m.
Dec. 4, 11, 18: Smart Start Storytime, 12:15-1:15 p.m.
Dec. 9: Book Club, 11 a.m.-12 p.m.
Dec. 23: BYO Craft Night (adults 18+), 4:30-6:45 p.m.

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

Dec. 3: Holiday Watercolor Cards, 6-8 p.m.
Dec. 12: Mosaic Christmas Trees, 6-8 p.m.
Dec. 13: Holiday Ornament Need Felting, 6-8 p.m.

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

Dec. 1-8: Faster than Light, 2-2:30 p.m.
Dec. 1-28: Passport to the Universe, 1-1:30 p.m. (find exact dates online)
Dec. 1-29: Legends of the Night Sky—Orion, 11-11:30 a.m. (find exact dates online)
Dec. 4: Homeschool Program— Exploring Color in Art, 10 a.m.-12 p.m.
Dec. 6: Storytime, 10:30 a.m.
Dec. 6, 7, 8: Stargazing—Tonight’s Sky Live Chat, 3-4 p.m.
Dec. 7, 14, 28: Constellations, 12-12:30 p.m.
Dec. 11-22: Season of Light, 12-12:30 p.m.
Dec. 13: Curiosity Kids— Victorian Holiday Celebrations, 11:30 a.m.
Dec. 13: Virtual Program—Art & Nature, 12:15-12:45 p.m.
Dec. 14: The Story That Tree Rings Tell—Dendrochronology, 11 a.m.
Dec. 18: Scherenschnitte papercutting, 11:30 a.m.
Dec. 20: Curiosity Kids—Portraits and What They Tell Us, 11:30 a.m.
Dec. 20: Pottery, 1:30 p.m.
Dec. 27: The Story That Tree Rings Tell—Dendrochronology, 1:30 p.m.

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

Dec. 11: Open Figure Drawing, 7-9 p.m.

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

Dec. 4: Macramé Snowflakes Workshop, 6-8 p.m.
Dec. 5: Needle Felted Ornament Class, 6-8 p.m.
Dec. 6: Snowy Train Painting Class, 6-8 p.m.
Dec. 7: Ceramic Winter Luminaries Workshop, 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
Dec. 7: Ceramic Tree Bells Workshop, 2-3 p.m.
Dec. 7: Dirty Date Night at the Potter’s Wheel, 7-9 p.m.
Dec. 19: Mosaic Wreath Workshop, 6-8 p.m.
Dec. 19: Ceramic Dumpling Snowman Workshop, 6-8 p.m.
Dec. 21: Needle Felted Winter Gnome Class, 11 a.m.-1 p.m.

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

Dec. 3: Wreath Workshop, 9 a.m.-3:30 p.m.
Dec. 3, 6: Owl Prowl at Detweiler Park, 5:30-7 p.m.
Dec. 4, 11, 18: Wednesday Wellness Walks, 1-2:30 p.m.
Dec. 7: Young Birders—Counting is for the Birds with AAS, 10 a.m.-12 p.m.
Dec. 7: Girl Scouts Cadettes—Night Owl, 4-8:30 p.m.
Dec. 8, 15: Natural Ornaments, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.
Dec. 10-31: Winter Discovery
Dec. 14: Birds and Coffee with Appalachian Audubon, 10-11 a.m.
Dec. 19: Artful Christmas Evergreen Centerpiece, 6-8 p.m.
Dec. 22: Reindeer Workshop, 1:30-3 p.m.
Dec. 22: Sunset Winter Solstice Hike at Detweiler Park, 4-5 p.m.

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

Dec. 21: The Plot Thickens, 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.

Live Music

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

Dec. 6: Big Shrimp and Solar Circuit
Dec. 7: The Dirty Grass Players, Sicard Hollow
Dec. 20: An Abbey Family Christmas hosted by Cumberland Honey

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

Dec. 4: The Rock Orchestra by Candlelight
Dec. 6: Jazz in the City
Dec. 7: Mandy Gonzalez
Dec. 8: Shakey Graves, Buffalo Hunt
Dec. 20: Seán Heely’s A Celtic Christmas
Dec. 21: Swingin’ Holiday Sing-Along

Arts on the Square
20 S. 2nd St., Harrisburg
717-257-1270; marketsquarechurch.org

Dec. 22: Carols by Candlelight

Blair Music Center, Lutz Recital Hall
Lebanon Valley College
101 College Ave., Annville
717-233-8668; lvc.edu

Dec. 3: Valley Jazz Orchestra Fall
Dec. 4: Touch of Brass
Dec. 5: Concert Band
Dec. 7: Christmas at the Galley
Dec. 8: Christmas at the Valley

Blues Society of Central PA
Champions Sports Bar and Grill
300 2nd St., Highspire
bscpblues.com

Dec. 5, 12, 19, 26: Blues Jams

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

Dec. 20: The John Denver Tribute Christmas Concert with Chris Collins & Boulder Canyon

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

Dec. 4, 18: Christine Purcell
Dec. 5, 19: Andrea Britton
Dec. 7, 12, 20, 21: Chris Emkey
Dec. 14, 28: Anthony Haubert

Central PA Friends of Jazz
www.friendsofjazz.org

Dec. 15: Michael Dease

Dauphin County Library System
dcls.org

Dec. 10: Books on Tap—Mistletoe Mysteries at Rubber Soul Brewing Company, Hummelstown

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

Dec. 31: Dwight Icenhower’s Elvis and More!

Elizabethtown College
1 Alpha Dr., Elizabethtown
717-361-1212; www.etown.edu

Dec. 4: Annual Holiday Concert
Dec. 8: Winter Choral Concert

The Englewood
1219 Research Blvd., Hummelstown
717-256-9480; englewoodhershey.com

Dec. 22: Rock and Roll Christmas

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

Dec. 11: St. Thomas Dulcimer Society Holiday Concert
Dec. 22: Brass Triumphant

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

Dec. 9: Sounds of the Season, 7-8:30 p.m.

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

Dec. 6: Bear Grillz
Dec. 13: Everything YES
Dec. 14: Green River—The Ultimate Creedance Clearwater Revival/John Fogerty Tribute Show
Dec. 31: D-Loc the Gill God

Harrisburg Gay Men’s Chorus
www.hgmcchorus.org

Dec. 1: “Fa-La-La Fabulous” at Unitarian Church of Harrisburg
Dec. 8: “Fa-La-La Fabulous” at Trinity United Church of Christ, Waynesboro
Dec. 13, 14: “Fa-La-La Fabulous” at Theatre Harrisburg
Dec. 15: “Fa-La-La Fabulous” at First Reformed Church, Lancaster

Harrisburg Singers
www.theharrisburgsingers.org

Dec. 6: Holiday Concert at Holy Trinity Lutheran Church, Hershey
Dec. 7: Holiday Concert at St. Joseph Catholic Church, Mechanicsburg
Dec. 8: Holiday Concert at Trinity Lutheran Church, Camp Hill

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

Dec. 7-8: Let’s Groove Tonight—Motown & The Philly Sound

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

Dec. 7: Patrick Kerssen Trio—Vince Guaraldi, The Man Behind the Peanuts

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

Dec. 11: Straight No Chaser
Dec. 14: Hershey Symphony—Holiday Spectacular
Dec. 17: Leslie Odom, Jr.

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

Dec. 6: Emily’s ToyBox, Nikki Briar Duo
Dec. 7: Slippery When Wet, Dave Kelly Duo
Dec. 13: Turning The Tide, Hank the Buffalo
Dec. 14: Sapphire, Joe Cooney & Friends
Dec. 20: Twisted Charm, Megan and Dave
Dec. 21: Funktion, Honey & Nutz
Dec. 27: Chorduroy, Brenda Brune
Dec. 28: Smooth Like Clyde, Shine Delphi
Dec. 31: The Luv Gods, Joe Cooney & Friends

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

Dec. 12: Holiday Music with Ray Holland

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

Dec. 7: Christmas Concert at St. Andrews In the Valley Episcopal Church, Harrisburg
Dec. 14: All Saints Episcopal Church, 310 Elm Ave., Hershey

Lovedraft’s Brewing Co.
165 Gateway Dr., Mechanicsburg
717-610-3331; lovedraftsbrewing.com

Dec. 4: Crown Magnetar
Dec. 6: The Warped Band—The Ultimate Tribute to Warped Tour
Dec. 7: Eva Under Fire
Dec. 11: Devastation on the Nation
Dec. 13: Frightmare Before Christmas—Friday the 13th Show

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

Dec. 8: Mannheim Streamroller Christmas
Dec. 14: Tommy Dorsey Orchestra
Dec. 21: The King’s Singers

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

Dec. 3: JazzTWO and Jazz Combo Concert
Dec. 5: Messiah University Piano Ensemble
Dec. 8: Messiah University Christmas Concerts
Dec. 10: Messiah University Musica Nova—Student Compositions
Dec. 14: Susquehanna Chorale Concert—“A Candlelight Christmas”
Dec. 15: Messiah University Guitar Ensemble

Susquehanna Chorale
One College Ave., Mechanicsburg
717-533-7859; susquehannachorale.org

Dec. 13: “A Candlelight Christmas” at Elizabethtown Church of the Brethren
Dec. 14: “A Candlelight Christmas” at Messiah College, Mechanicsburg
Dec. 15: “A Candlelight Christmas” at Market Square Presbyterian Church, Harrisburg

The Susquehanna Folk Music Society
717-745-6577; sfmsfolk.org

Dec. 13: April Verch & Joe Newberry
Dec. 15: Dec. Jam & Song Swap

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

Dec. 6: The Legwarmers—The Ultimate 80s Tribute Band
Dec. 7: Splintered Sunlight Grateful Dead Tribute
Dec. 12: Big Something
Dec. 13: The Dirty Sweet
Dec. 20: The Warped Band—The Ultimate Tribute to Warped Tour, Dookie & All the Blink Things
Dec. 28: Eggy

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

Dec. 6: TUBACHRISTMAS
Dec. 11: Squirrel Nut Zippers

West Shore Symphony Orchestra
www.westshoresymphony.org

Dec. 13, 14: Music in Motion free family concerts (see times and locations online)

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

Dec. 14: Broadway’s “Jersey Boy” John Lloyd Young
Dec. 20: Jeff Krick Jr. presents Christmas with Elvis

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

Dec. 21: Solar Federation—A Evening of Rush

The Stage Door

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

Dec. 1-30: “The 2024 Christmas Show—Joy to The World”

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

Dec. 5: Tom Papa
Dec. 14: “The Nutcracker” with Dance It Forward
Dec. 15: Nutcracker Worlds with Dance It Forward

The Belmont Theatre
27 S. Belmont St., York
717-854-3894; thebelmont.org

Dec. 6-15: Irvin Berlin’s “Holiday Inn” The Musical

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

Dec. 6: “A Steampunk Christmas Carol”

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

Dec. 1-Jan.5: “White Christmas”

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

Dec. 17: “The Tragedy of Mariam” (a reading)

Dec. 31: Countdown to Noon—“Snow White & The Two Dwarfs”
Dec. 31: Last Laughs of 2024 (TMI Improv)

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

Dec. 8: Queens Who Brunch
Dec. 21: Jim Norton

Harrisburg Christian Performing Arts Center
1000 S. Eisenhower Blvd, Middletown
717-939-9333; thehcpac.org

Dec. 13-15: “Christmas Toy School at the North Pole”

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

Dec. 6, 7: Shawn Banks and Gary Sharp
Dec. 13, 14: JL Cauvin and Mike O’Donnel
Dec. 20, 21: Jay Nog and Mike Keegan
Dec. 27, 28: Tim Young and Damien Robinson

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

Dec. 6: Elderprov
Dec. 6, 13, 20, 27: Free Improv Jam
Dec. 7, 14, 21, 28: Free Improv Mixer
Dec. 15: Level 1 Class Show

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

Dec. 12-15: “Tiny Tim’s Christmas Carol”

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

Dec. 1-8: “Hamilton”
Dec. 15: Cirque Musica Holiday Wonderland
Dec. 21-22: Central Pennsylvania Youth Ballet presents “The Nutcracker”

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

Dec. 6-29: “Beauty and the Beast”

Little Theatre of Mechanicsburg
915 S. York St., Mechanicsburg
717-766-0535; ltmpa.com

Dec. 1-8: “Twas the Night Before Christmas”

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

Dec. 6: Kathleen Madigan
Dec. 7: “A Magical Cirque Christmas”

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

Dec. 6-15: Totem Pole Playhouse presents “A Christmas Carol”

Market Cross Pub & Brewery
113 N. Hanover St., Carlisle
717-258-1234; marketcrosspub.com

Dec. 5. 12, 19, 26: Magical Thursdays with Kyle Purnell

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

Dec. 13-14: Fall Senior Series

Open Stage
223 Walnut St., Harrisburg
717-232-OPEN; openstagehbg.com

Nov. 23-Dec. 22: “Who’s Holiday!”
Nov. 30-Dec. 22: “A Christmas Carol”
Dec. 4-20: “A Very Court Street Cabaret Christmas!”
Dec. 8: “To Mister Scrooge!”

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

Dec. 6-8: “Black Nativity”

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

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

November 26, 2024 | by Bob MacGinnes

Larry Lerew

As in years past, “The Painted Word” returns with another art personality. Long before I ever wrote for TheBurg, another artist and writer covered the scene with his revolutionary art journal in the 1980s called “Local Color.” In fact, the then-freshly minted board president at the Art Association of Harrisburg, Carrie Wissler-Thomas, wrote feature stories for his publication. It’s obvious that Larry Lerew knew talent when he saw it. For the rest of his art journey, continue reading and happy holidays to all.

Santa’s Workshop

The gyroscope on the compass was spinning wildly out of control. Somehow the directional arrow pointed south when every ounce of reason told us the North Pole was well…north. And yet the destination blipped and beeped—Dillsburg.

Once off the main road of 11/15S, the curves and landmarks resembled the way to grandma’s house, although we had already crossed the river and were now into the woods or at least a countryside glen. Before we knew it, we had arrived at 130 Century Lane and parked in front of a red-doored, two-story building that, from the outside, appeared to be Santa’s workshop. Lo and behold, a jolly elf stepped out to greet us, bidding welcome to Larry Lerew’s Art Studio and Gallery. Elves come in all shapes, sizes and ages as Larry introduced his wife, fellow elf, Pam. For decades now, Larry has only been too happy to help “The Man in the Red Suit” with his vintage art creations. Working with recycled paper, then upcycled into wondrously affordable wall hangings or table adornments, this elf takes great pride in making something kaleidoscopic out of old magazines, newspapers, cereal boxes and, yes, brown paper bags. That is truly thinking outside the box, if you catch my drift.

When Larry and I were kids, reading cereal boxes provided education and entertainment. Larry took it one step further, cutting and twirling, dovetailing and whirling them into magic for kids of any age. Let’s go back to the beginning, say about 50 years ago. Growing up in rural America in the late 1950s afforded Larry a childhood for creativity, sprung from what was laying around close at hand. Paper bags became Halloween masks and, a sturdy cardboard box, a makeshift sled. Necessity was not only the mother of invention, but often, sparked extraordinary ideas to produce gifts out of scraps. In Larry’s hands, voila!

“I’ve always relied on my imagination, observations and the creative use of a shoestring budget,” shared the artist. “Using basic art materials like scraps of paper and simple crayons fills my need to create something extraordinary from the ordinary. I believe someone can make good art with what they have on hand by thinking ‘what if.’”

It’s been said that left-handedness may be a sign of genius. Look to Mark Twain, Mozart, Aristotle, Barack Obama, Bill Gates, Brad Pitt and Larry Lerew. In good company, Larry looks to being a southpaw as lucky indeed, seeing things as an artist.

“When it came to shapes, color and texture, I could design in my head by using design principles and elements freely,” he said. “Working 10 years as a party caricaturist helped me improve my ability to sketch on the run. I was a regular ‘Quick Drew Lerew.’”

Art school provided the basics and foundation for form and theory, but Larry always thought far beyond the obvious. Sketching and painting plein air helped develop his signature style and method. Landscape studies, rich in color and texture, are captured vividly with his “crayon resist” method, lending them an air of immediacy.

The method first uses crayon to draw and then adds watercolor paint directly on top of the crayon. The crayon shows through, creating an eclectic effect. Perhaps the painting, “Flight of the Milkweed,” encapsulates the very essence of his highly individualistic style as colors mix and mingle, textures tantalize, and the buoyancy of milkweed in its mid-air flight is delicately defined and delivered. In Larry’s paintings, it is almost as if you can reach out and touch the wheat, smell the bouquet of flowers, step up into the truck, and climb the stone steps, finding yourself in the center. It doesn’t get any more real than that. They take you to familiar places, ones you would like to visit and explore. They enchant in their brushstrokes.

The upcycled side of Larry’s art is playful, colorful, twisty and turn-y, pulling pieces of this and of that, almost as if one is on a carousel, grabbing at straws of paper randomly, yet with meaning and purpose. Charm is captured in star clusters, heartstring spirals, chains of paper ribbon coils on a latticework fence, fanciful folded fans, and 3-D sculptures. All this upcycle art is readily affordable, starting at a mere $12, perfect for all the art lovers on your list. Hours for the “workshop” are Tuesdays and Saturdays from 2 to 5 p.m. Larry and Pam invite you to the farm to visit their second-floor studio to experience the magic.

Epilogue

There is a simple truth tied to the holidays, the heart-tugging thread that runs through most of us at this time of year. A deep abiding yearning for the memories and people of years past, holidays spent together, and the nostalgia-inducing emotion of love. No matter your background, beliefs, ethnicity, all point to a reverence for a higher meaning of understanding that the holidays bring out in us all. “Pretty papers, pretty ribbons of blue, wrap your presents to your darling from you. Pretty pencils to write, ‘I love you.’” These words are taken from a 1963 song that harkens to a day when gifts were from the heart, tied up with love, in just paper and ribbons. It was an age of simplicity and humility, much like the treasured gifts given to a baby on that wondrous night over 2,000 years ago.

For more information on Larry Lerew, visit www.larrylerew.com.

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

Happenings: Our November Calendar of Events

October 30, 2024 | by Missy Smith

Museums & Art Spaces

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

“Forgotten Features—Classic & Cool Discontinued Options,” Nov. 16-April 20

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

“The Ugly Beautiful,” paintings by Brooklyn resident Jeff Bye, through Nov. 14

“Ann Benton Yeager—A Timely Retrospective,” featuring some of Ann’s early work and the progression of her current work, Nov. 22-Jan. 3; reception: Nov. 22, 5-8 p.m.

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

“A Symphony of Pastel & Oil—The Works of Donna Mitchell & Ralph Hocker,” Nov. 1-21; reception: Nov. 1, 5:30-7 p.m.

Arts on the Square
20 S. 2nd St., Harrisburg
717-257-1270; marketsquarechurch.org

Works of Barbara Passeri-Warfel in oil, fiber, and charcoal exhibit, through Dec. 29

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

“Art for the Holidays & Guild: Creating Community,” Nov. 8-Dec. 24; reception: Nov. 8, 5:30-7 p.m.

“Go with the Grain,” an exhibit highlighting the fine craft of local woodworkers, Nov. 8-Dec. 24; reception: Dec. 6, 5:30-7 p.m.

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

November artist of the month

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

Artist of the Month—Carrie Feidt, through Nov. 23

Holiday Open House, Nov. 29, 9 a.m.-8 p.m.

Gallo’ry on Market
2010 Market St., Camp Hill
717-623-2090; galloryonmarket.com

November featured artists: Steve Wetzel, Brian Eppley

Hershey Area Art Association (HAAA)
hersheyart.org

HAAA Member Artwork at Hershey Public Library, hallway gallery, through Dec. 14

HAAA Member Artwork at Hershey Public Library, community room, Nov. 30-May 31

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

“The Humor, Reality and Fantasy of Parental Relationships in Nature,” works by Cindi Hardwicke and Justin Pettingell of Sycamore Shade Studios, through Nov. 30

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

“Sean Matthews—Histories,” through Nov. 10

“A Length of Time—A Retrospect of Works by Donald and Christine Forsythe,” Nov. 8-Dec. 15; reception: Nov. 8, 4:30 p.m.

“Class Exhibition—Approaches to Abstraction,” Nov. 15-Dec. 15

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

New works by Marsha Souders, Richard Souders, Elaine Elledge, Linda Benton McCloskey, Spencer Jackson and Rachel Bouwense, through Nov. 10

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

Photographs of Millersburg by Kit Cowan, through Jan. 18; reception: Dec. 7, 1-4 p.m.

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

Exhibits dedicated to Pennsylvania firefighting history

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

10th Annual Juried Exhibition, through Nov. 14

Perry County Council of the Arts
PCCA Gallery, 1 S. 2nd St., Newport
717-567-7023; perrycountyarts.org

“All Creation Sings,” original artwork by Hannah Smolensky, through Nov. 9; meet the artist: Nov. 8, 5-8 p.m., during Newport Ladies Night

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

“Art of the State,” highlighting the commonwealth’s rich artistic heritage with painting, photography/digital media, craft, sculpture and works on paper by 96 artists from 28 Pennsylvania counties, through Jan. 5

“Game Changers—Pennsylvania Women Who Made History,” celebrating women from across the state in diverse fields and detailing the contributions they made and challenges they faced in their lifetimes

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

“HORSE2AUTO: A Transportation Revolution”

“Seeing Fallingwater—Celebrating Pennsylvania’s Architectural Masterpiece”

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

“How We Shut Down Berks,” works by Queremos Justicia, who tells the story of how the Shut Down Berks Coalition organized to close an immigrant prison, through Nov. 3

“Edvard Munch—Works on Paper from the John Szoke Gallery,” Nov. 16-Jan. 19

“Distinguished Grace—The Paintings of Dean Stambaugh” celebrates and showcases the artist’s work throughout his career and lifetime, through Dec. 1

“The Hidden Museum” invites visitors to locate “hidden” works of art at the Susquehanna Art Museum, through Dec. 31

“Domestic Affairs,” Susquehanna Art Museum’s 9th annual juried exhibition with artwork exploring subjects relating to the domestic, through Jan. 5

Suzanne H. Arnold Art Gallery
Lebanon Valley College
75 N. White Oak St., Annville
717-867-6445; lvc.edu/gallery

Nov. 1-Dec. 15: “Arts of Africa Speak,” stories and objects from two academic collections

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

“Girl in Slacks – Women Artists From the Reading Public Museum,” Nov. 1-Jan. 25

“The Legacy of Two Centuries of Black American Art,” celebrating the legacy of David Driskell’s groundbreaking 1976 exhibition, through Dec. 20

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

Oil paintings by Deborah Kahn and sculptures by Shari Mendelson, exploring invented spaces and forms, Nov. 2-Feb. 22

“Veterans’ Visions,” local veterans share stories through artwork, Nov. 1-29

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

“Member’s Mark,” the best of the work created by Wheel of Light Studio makers, through Nov. 16

“Fourth Annual Home for the Holidays” show, Nov. 20-Dec. 31

Read, Make, Learn

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

Nov. 5, 7: Fall Leaves Solid Glass Flameworking Workshop (12+ w/ legal guardian) 6-8 p.m.
Nov. 5, 12, 19: Drawing Landscapes in Colored Pencils & Pastels (ages 9-14) 5:30-7:30 p.m.
Nov. 5, 12, 19, Dec. 3: Watercolor for the Very Beginner (adults) 6-8:30 p.m.
Nov. 5, 12, 19, Dec. 3: Next Steps for the Very Beginner in Watercolor (adults) 3-5:30 p.m.
Nov. 6, 20: Watercolor Painting Step-by-Step 2-day class (adults), 9:30 a.m.-4 p.m.
Nov. 13: Date Night with Glassblowing (adults) 6-8 p.m.

Capital Blue Cross Connect
4500 Marketplace Way, Enola
capitalbluecrossconnect.com

Nov. 1, 8, 15, 22, 29: Strong + Fit, 10 a.m.
Nov. 4, 11: Tai Chi, 4 p.m.
Nov. 4, 11, 18, 25: Virtual Pilates, 5 p.m.
Nov. 4, 11, 18, 25: Gentle Yoga, 9:30 a.m.
Nov. 5, 12, 19: Medicare Seminar, 10 a.m.
Nov. 6, 13, 20, 27: Virtual INSPIRE, 9 a.m.
Nov. 6, 13, 20, 27: Kickboxing + Strength, 4:30 p.m.
Nov. 7, 14: Ready, Steady, Action! at Enola Store and Virtual, 4:15 p.m.
Nov. 25: American Red Cross Blood Drive, 11:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m.

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

Nov. 5, 12, 19, 26: Beginning Oil Painting (ages 16-adult), 6-8 p.m.
Nov. 5, 12, 19, 26: Intermediate/Advanced Oil Painting, 1-3 p.m.
Nov. 6: Small Mixed Media, 11 a.m.-3 p.m.
Nov. 6: Making Botanical Ink, 6-8 p.m.
Nov. 9: Bobble Heads (ages 5-12), 10:30 a.m.-12 p.m.
Nov. 9, 16, 23, 30: Animals of All the Continents (ages 10-14), Four Saturdays, 12-2 p.m.
Nov. 20: Suicide Loss Survivors, 5:30-7 p.m.
Nov. 22: Paint Your Home Watercolor Workshop, 5:30-8 p.m.
Nov. 23: Bronze Sand Casting Workshop—Ornaments, 11 a.m.-4 p.m.
Nov. 25: Pop Art Fun (ages 6-12), 9 a.m.-3 p.m.

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

Nov. 2: Native Storytelling with Dovie Thomason, 10:30-11:15 a.m.
Nov. 9: Children’s Book Week with Heather Fox and Jonathan Stutzman, 1-2 p.m.
Nov. 10: “The Year of Ghibli—Howl’s Moving Castle” (English dubbed version), 2-4 p.m.
Nov. 13: East Shore Cinema, 2-4 p.m.
Nov. 14, 15: Jewelry Swap, 12-4 p.m.
Nov. 21: Sip & Speak Book Club, 3-4:30 p.m.
Nov. 24: “The Year of Ghibli—Howl’s Moving Castle” (Japanese with English subtitles), 2-4 p.m.

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

Nov. 5: Persimmon Walk, 2:30-3:30 p.m.
Nov. 14: Art Heals—Tree Mosaic Workshop, 6-8 p.m.
Nov. 17: National Take a Hike Day, 9-11:30 a.m.

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

Nov. 2: Knitter’s Group, 10 a.m.-2 p.m.
Nov. 5, 12, 19, 26: Card Making Group, 5-7 p.m.
Nov. 6, 13, 20, 27: Homeschool Happening, 2-4 p.m.
Nov. 7, 14, 21, 28: Fiber Artists, 3-6 p.m.
Nov. 9: Fiber Artists, 10 a.m.-2 p.m.
Nov. 9, 23: LEGO Club, 11 a.m.-12 p.m.
Nov. 16: K-Pets Therapy Reading Sessions, 10:30-11:30 a.m.
Nov. 16: Book Discussion Group—“The Catcher in the Rye,” 10 a.m.-12 p.m.
Nov. 19: Baby Musik Time, 9:50-10:20 a.m.
Nov. 19: Preschool Musik Time, 10:30-11 a.m.
Nov. 19: Fall Class Book Club—“A Little Princess,” 4-5 p.m.

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

Nov. 2: The Puzzlers, 1-4:30 p.m.
Nov. 2: Computer Basics, 2-3 p.m.
Nov. 2, 9, 16, 23: Heartfulness Meditation Workshop, 2-3 p.m.
Nov. 4: Roots & Shoots Kids Club, 6-7 p.m.
Nov. 4, 11, 18: Beekeeping 101, 6-8 p.m.
Nov. 4, 11: Fredricksen Writes, 7 p.m.
Nov. 4, 11, 18: Baby & Toddler Storytime, 10-10:30 a.m.
Nov. 4, 11, 18: Children’s Storytime, 11-11:30 a.m.
Nov. 5: Curl Up with the Classics—“A Moveable Feast,” 10-11 a.m.
Nov. 5: Evening Genealogy Club, 5-6 p.m.
Nov. 5: Plot Twisters Teen Writers Group, 6-7 p.m.
Nov. 7, 14, 21: Meditation to Calm the Mind, 12-12:30 p.m.
Nov. 7, 14, 21: Language at the Library-Beginner Spanish, 10-11 a.m.
Nov. 7, 21: Device Advice, 5-6 p.m.
Nov. 8: Pop-Up Storytime, 11-11:30 a.m.
Nov. 8: Indie & Foreign Film Friday—“Heavenly Creatures,” 2-4 p.m.
Nov. 10: Dances of Universal Peace, 2-4 p.m.
Nov. 11: Coffee (BYO) and Conversation, 10-11:30 a.m.
Nov. 11: The Puzzlers, 1:30-8:30 p.m.
Nov. 11: Philosopher’s Roundtable, 2-3:30 p.m.
Nov. 12: Tween LEGO Club, 6-7:30 p.m.
Nov. 13, 27: Device Advice, 10 a.m.-12 p.m.
Nov. 14: Journaling for Life, 6:30-8:30 p.m.
Nov. 15: Peaceful Poses Adult Yoga, 9:15-10 a.m.
Nov. 15: Peaceful Poses Yoga Storytime for Preschoolers, 10-10:45 a.m.
Nov. 15: Family Paint & Pix!, 6-8 p.m.
Nov. 16: Tween Escape Room, 1:30-2:30 p.m.
Nov. 16: Teen Escape Room, 3:30-4:30 p.m.
Nov. 17: Paint with Us, 1-3 p.m.
Nov. 17: Pokémon Club, 2-4 p.m.
Nov. 18: Zoology Club, 6-7 p.m.
Nov. 18, 25: Book Explorers, 5:30-6:30 p.m.
Nov. 19: Genealogy Club, 11 a.m.-12 p.m.
Nov. 23: Neurodivergent Adult Support Group, 3 p.m.
Nov. 24: Game Day for All, 1-4:30 p.m.

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

Nov. 2: Wire Bonsai Tree, 10 a.m.-1 p.m.
Nov. 9: Black Bear Wooden Porch Sitter, 10 a.m.-1 p.m.
Nov. 10: Needle Felted Gingerbread Ornament, 1-3 pm
Nov. 16: Paper Quilled Christmas Ornaments, 1-3 p.m.
Nov. 23: Holiday Mosaic, 10 a.m.-1 p.m.
Nov. 30: Holiday Ornaments, 12 to 2 p.m.

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

Nov. 7: Book Bingo, 5:30-6:30 p.m.
Nov. 9: Knit One, Crochet Too!, 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.

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

Nov. 2: Small Business Money, 10:30-11:30 a.m.
Nov. 2, 16, 23: Chess Club, 1-3 p.m.
Nov. 6: LEGO Club, 4-4:45 p.m.
Nov. 6: Hershey Area Pokémon Club, 5:30-7 p.m.
Nov. 6: Open Book Group, 6-7:45 p.m.
Nov. 6, 13, 20: Community Crochet Night—Teen Space, 6-7:45 p.m.
Nov. 7, 12, 14, 19, 21, 26: Penn State Hershey—Mothers & Babies, 10:15 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
Nov. 7, 14, 21: Teen Time, 3-4:30 p.m.
Nov. 7, 21: Hershey Quilters, 12-4 p.m.
Nov. 9: Chess Tournament, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.
Nov. 11: Hershey Area Neighbors and Newcomers, 10:15 a.m.-1 p.m.
Nov. 11: Friends Film Festival—“Only You” (adults 21 and older), 2-4 p.m.
Nov. 11, 18, 25: Books and Babies, 10:15-10:45 a.m.
Nov. 11, 18, 25: Storytime for Everyone (preschool), 11-11:30 a.m.
Nov. 12: Philosophers’ Round Table Discussion Group, 2-3:30 p.m.
Nov. 12, 19, 26: 1, 2, Whee!, 10:15-10:45 a.m.
Nov. 13: MOMS Club of Derry Township, 10-11:30 a.m.
Nov. 13: Board Game Night, 5-7:45 p.m.
Nov. 13: Daily Practices for Rejuvenating Sleep, 6:30-7:30 p.m.
Nov. 14, 21: Storytime for Everyone (preschool), 10:15-10:45 a.m.
Nov. 16: Cocoa Area Fiber Enthusiasts, 10 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
Nov. 16: Wendy Makes DIY Card Class, 11 a.m.-1:30 p.m.
Nov. 16: Fused Glass Class, 1-4 p.m.
Nov. 20: Art Together, 5-7:45 p.m.

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

Nov. 3: Roots & Drupes—Mid-Fall Foraging Walk, 10 a.m.-12 p.m.
Nov. 9: Gluten-Free Desserts Pt. I—Sticky Buns, Potato Candy & Apple Pie, 10:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Nov. 9-10: Fall Foraging Foundations 2-Day Intensive Foraging Class, 9 a.m.-3 p.m.
Nov. 30: Gluten-Free Desserts Pt II—Sweet Breads & Cookies, 10:30 a.m.-1 p.m.

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

Nov. 1, 8, 15, 22, 29: LEGO Time, 10:15-11:15 a.m.
Nov. 2, 30: Creation Makerspace, 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
Nov. 4, 11, 18, 25: Toddler Time, 11:15-11:35 a.m.
Nov. 4, 11, 18, 25: Rhyme Time, 11:45 a.m.-12:05 p.m.
Nov. 9: Block Party, 10:30-11:25 a.m.
Nov. 9: Puzzle Party, 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
Nov. 14: Kindergarten Readiness, 1 p.m. or 6 p.m.
Nov. 16: Craft-A-Palooza, 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
Nov. 18: STEAM Club, 6-7 p.m.
Nov. 25: Tween Scene, 6-7 p.m.

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

Nov. 2, 9, 16, 23, 30: Passageways, 2 p.m.
Nov. 3, 10, 17, 24: Young Adult Group, 4 p.m.
Nov. 6, 13, 20, 27: Common Roads (ages 12-17), 6-8 p.m.
Nov. 9: QTPOC Advisory Group, 6-8 p.m.

Lovedraft’s Brewing Co.
165 Gateway Dr., Mechanicsburg
717-610-3331; lovedraftsbrewing.com

Nov. 17: Namaste Yoga, 10-11 a.m.

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

Nov. 26: Coloring for Adults, 3:30-4:30 p.m.

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

Nov. 9: Reading the Rainbow Book Club, 11 a.m.-12 p.m.

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

Nov. 4, 11, 18, 25: Kids STEM Club 5:30 p.m.
Nov. 4, 11, 18, 25: Teen STEM Club 6:30 p.m.
Nov. 5, 12, 19, 26: Storytime and a Craft, 10:30-11:30 a.m.
Nov. 5, 12, 19, 26: Tales with T.A.I.L.S., 6-7 p.m.
Nov. 7: Book Lovers Book Club, 6 p.m.
Nov. 7, 14, 21: Kids LEGO Club, 6:30 p.m.
Nov. 9: Family Board Games Day, 10 a.m.-12 p.m.
Nov. 12: Library Board Meeting, 6 p.m.
Nov. 13, 27: Crafters Circle, 1 p.m.
Nov. 14: Creative Writers Forum, 6 p.m.
Nov. 18: Mystery Book Club, 6 p.m.
Nov. 21: President Ulysses S. Grant in the White House Presentation, 6 p.m.
Nov. 26: Silent Book Club, 6 p.m.

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

Nov. 13: An Evening with Ariel Lawhon, 7-8 p.m.
Nov. 23: Book Signing with Tory Gates, 1-3 p.m.

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

Nov. 2: First Saturday Open Studios, 2-5 p.m.
Nov. 10: Fall Candle Making, 1-3 p.m.
Nov. 16: Alcohol Inks Class, 1-4 p.m.

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

Nov. 15: Lessons in History—”Wide Awake: The Movement That Elected Lincoln and Ignited the Civil War,” 5:30-6:30 p.m.
Nov. 20: Savings and Trust—A Civil Conversation, 7-8 p.m.

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

Nov. 16: Fall Hike, 10 a.m.-12 p.m.

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

Nov. 1-30: Read Grateful Challenge (ages 0-18)
Nov. 1-30: Aviation Scavenger Hunt (ages 0-18)
Nov. 1-5: Dino-vember LEGO Contest (ages 6-12)
Nov. 2, 16: Book Sales, 9 a.m.-3 p.m.
Nov. 2, 9, 16, 23, 30: Take and Makes (ages 2-5)
Nov. 4: Family Fort Fest (ages 2-5), 10:30-11:30 a.m.
Nov. 4: Monday Great Books Discussion Group, 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
Nov. 4, 18, 25: Teen Monday FUNdays (ages 13-17), 3-4 p.m.
Nov. 5: Storytime STEAM (ages 3-5), 10:30-11:15 a.m.
Nov. 6: Your Vote Matters! (ages 4 and older), 4:30-5:15 p.m.
Nov. 6: Piece Seekers, 6-7:30 p.m.
Nov. 7: Ruth’s Mystery Discussion Group, 10:15 a.m.-12 p.m.
Nov. 7, 14, 21: Tech Time, 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
Nov. 7, 21: Musical Mornings (ages 2-5), 10:30-11 a.m.
Nov. 8, 22: Block Party (ages 0-3) 10:30-11:30 a.m.
Nov. 8, 22: Dungeons & Dragons (ages 13-17), 4-6 p.m.
Nov. 9: Teen Craft Kits (ages 13-17)
Nov. 10: Friends Cultural Series—Bonding with the William Black Homestead, 3 p.m.
Nov. 12: Shelf Love, 6-7 p.m.
Nov. 12: Tales for Tails (ages 6-12), 6:30-7:30 p.m.
Nov. 12, 19, 26: Book Babies (ages 0-2), 11:15 a.m.-12 p.m.
Nov. 13: Wednesday Great Books Discussion Group, 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m
Nov. 14: Movers and Groovers (ages 2-5), 10:30-11 a.m.
Nov. 14: Sound Explorers—Create Your Own Music (ages 6-12), 5-6 p.m.
Nov. 15: Tumble Tots (ages 0-3), 10:30 a.m.-12 p.m.
Nov. 16: Couponing for Extreme Savings, 11 a.m.-12 p.m.
Nov. 18, 25: Cozy Preschool Storytime (ages 2-5), 10:30-11:15 a.m.
Nov. 20: Teen Crafternoon (ages 13-17), 3-4 p.m.
Nov. 20: PennWriters Writing Group, 6-9 p.m.
Nov. 26: STEAM Scene (ages 6-12), 4:30-5:30 p.m.

Palmyra Public Library
50 Landings Dr., Annville
717-838-1347; palmyra.lclibs.org

Nov. 4: Genealogy Group, 10-11 a.m.
Nov. 4, 7, 14, 18, 21, 25: Little Explorers, 10:30-11 a.m.
Nov. 6, 13, 20: Little Explorers Downtown, 10:30-11 a.m.
Nov. 6, 13, 20: Smart Start Storytime, 12:15-1:15 p.m.
Nov. 6, 13, 20, 27: Strength & Stretching 50+, 10-11 a.m.
Nov. 7, 14, 21: Little Explorers, 1:30-2 p.m.
Nov. 25: BYO Craft Night (adults 18+), 4:30-6:45 p.m.

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

Nov. 4: Mosaic Cats Class, 6-8 p.m.
Nov. 5: Pumpkin Patch Watercolor Workshop, 6-8 p.m.
Nov. 22: Mushroom Needle Felting, 6-8 p.m.

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

Nov. 1, 3, 7 10, 14, 17, 20, 21, 24: Faster than Light, 2-2:30 p.m.
Nov. 1, 16: Storytime, 10:30 a.m.
Nov. 1-30: Passport to the Universe, 1-1:30 p.m. (find exact dates online)
Nov. 2, 16, 22, 23, 30: Constellations, 12-12:30 p.m.
Nov. 6-30: Legends of the Night Sky—Orion, 11-11:30 a.m. (find exact dates online)
Nov. 3, 10, 17, 24: Legends of the Night Sky—Orion, 1-1:30 p.m.
Nov. 6: Homeschool Program—Pennsylvania in the Civil War, 10 a.m.-12 p.m.
Nov. 8: Curiosity Kids—Density: Sink or Float?, 11:30 a.m.
Nov. 8, 9, 10: Stargazing—Tonight’s Sky Live Chat, 3-4 p.m.
Nov. 9: Daily Life of a Soldier, 11:30 a.m.-3 p.m.
Nov. 15: GRAVITY, 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
Nov. 15: Virtual Program—Threats to the Health of Pennsylvania’s Forests, 12:15-12:45 p.m.
Nov. 22 Curiosity Kids—Wild Turkeys of PA, 11:30 a.m.
Nov. 23: Gobble Gobble! The Eastern Wild Turkey, 10 a.m.

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

Nov. 2: Clay Trees Workshop, 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
Nov. 2: Resin Pendants Class, 11 a.m.-12 p.m.
Nov. 2, 9: Chainmaille Pumpkin Pendants Class, 1-2 p.m.
Nov. 2: Ceramic Ornaments Workshop, 2-3:30 p.m.
Nov. 2: Byzantine Chainmaille Class, 3-4 p.m.
Nov. 7: Needle Felted Squirrel Class, 6-8 p.m.
Nov. 8: Snowy Train Painting Class, 6-8 p.m.
Nov. 8: Clay Gnome Workshop, 6-7:3 p.m.
Nov. 9: Ceramic Ornaments Workshop, 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
Nov. 9: Resin Pendants Class, 11 a.m.-12 p.m.
Nov. 9: Wee Clay Trees Workshop, 2-3 p.m.
Nov. 9: Sweet Pea Chainmaille Class, 3-4 p.m.
Nov. 11: Susquehanna Clay Club meeting, 6:30 p.m.
Nov. 14: Macramé Christmas Tree Workshop, 6-8 p.m.
Nov. 15: Dirty Date Night, Give it a Spin, 7-9 p.m.
Nov. 21: Needle Felted Ornaments, 6-8 p.m.
Nov. 22: Mosaic Christmas Trees, 6-8 p.m.
Nov. 22: Clay Bread Warmers, 6:30-7:30 p.m.
Nov. 23: Kid’s Winter Garland Workshop, 12-2 p.m.
Nov. 23: Watercolor Winter Birds Card Class, 3-6 p.m.
Nov. 29: Ceramic Mugs Workshop, 6-8 p.m.

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

Nov. 3: Boy Scouts Wolves—Paws on the Path, 1-3:30 p.m.
Nov. 5: Persimmon Walk, 1-2 p.m.
Nov. 6, 13, 20, 27: Wednesday Wellness Walk, 1:30-2:30 p.m.
Nov. 7, 14, 21: Cat in the Hat Learning Series, 10-10:45 a.m.
Nov. 9: Wooden Bouquets to Brighten your Day, 10-11:30 a.m.
Nov. 9: Birds and Coffee with Appalachian Audubon, 10-11 a.m.
Nov. 9: Volunteer Work Day, 10 a.m.-1 p.m.
Nov. 14: Waterfowl Walk, 8-10 a.m.
Nov. 16: Penn State Extension Master Gardeners’ Made for the Shade—Choosing the Best Plants 9:30-11 a.m.
Nov. 16: Girl Scout Juniors—Animal Habitats, 10 a.m.-1:30 p.m.
Nov. 17: National Take a Hike Day at Detweiler Park, 1-3 p.m.
Nov. 17: National Take a Hike Day at Wildwood Park, 1-3 p.m.
Nov. 19: Wild Recipes—Fall Foraging in your Backyard, 6-7:30 p.m.
Nov. 30: Wreath Workshop, 9-3:30 p.m.
Nov. 26: Kids Discover—Turkey Talk (ages 2-5), 10-11:30 a.m.

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

Nov. 6: Ship Shape, 5-6 p.m.
Nov. 8: Children’s Book Week with Heather Fox and Jonathan Stutzman, 11 a.m.-12 p.m.
Nov. 9: Crafternoon, 11 a.m.-1 p.m.
Nov. 16: The Plot Thickens, 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.

Live Music

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

Nov. 2: Cumberland Honey, Uncle Jake and The 18 Wheel Gang, Short Hill Mountain Boys
Nov 15: Larry Keel Duo, The Dishonest Fiddlers
Nov 16: Muscle Tough, Red Meat Conspiracy
Nov 23: Consider The Source
Nov 27: Treesap, The Plate Scrapers
Nov 30: Flux Capacitor, Uncle Kunkle’s One Gram Band

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

Nov. 1: Jazz in the City
Nov. 1: It was 50 Years Ago Today—A Tribute to The Beatles
Nov. 7: Puddles Pity Party
Nov. 9: York Symphony’s John Williams Forever! Psycho—String Chamber
Nov. 14: The Outlet Music & Poetry Open Mic
Nov. 15: Ben Folds, Lindsey Kraft
Nov. 30: York Symphony’s Holiday Pops Spectacular

Blair Music Center, Lutz Recital Hall
Lebanon Valley College
101 College Ave., Annville
717-233-8668; lvc.edu

Nov. 2: Honors Orchestra Fall Concert
Nov. 17: Symphony Orchestra Fall Concert
Nov. 19: Percussion Ensemble
Nov. 20: Evening of Woodwinds
Nov. 26: Common Hour Jazz
Nov. 26: Modern Band Concert

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

Nov. 2: The Breakers—A Tribute to Tom Petty

Central Pennsylvania Womyn’s Chorus
cpwchorus.org

Nov. 23: “Fall Concert Pearl Jubilee—30 Years of Music” at Colonial Park United Church of Christ, Harrisburg
Nov. 24: “Fall Concert Pearl Jubilee—30 Years of Music” at St. Paul’s United Church of Christ, Mechanicsburg

The Englewood
1219 Research Blvd., Hummelstown
717-256-9480; englewoodhershey.com

Nov. 2: Dustin Douglas & The Electric Gentlemen, Soul Miners Union
Nov. 22: “A Charlie Brown Christmas” with the Eric Mintel Jazz Quartet
Nov. 27: “Wheel’s on Fire—The Last Waltz Recreated”
Nov. 29: Box of Rain—Grateful Dead Tribute

Enola First Church of God
9 Sherwood Dr., Enola
717-732-4253; www.enolacog.com

Nov. 22: Coffee House featuring Codie Reed

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

Nov. 1: Chris & Wendy Ryder Benefit Show
Nov. 3: Sebastian Bach
Nov. 7: Keep Flying, Don’t Panic, Eternal Boy
Nov. 7: The Hu
Nov. 9: Say Anything, Social Animals, Circus Trees, runt
Nov. 16: Kidd G
Nov. 22: $AM
Nov. 29: Wolves of Glendale
Nov. 30: VRSTY, Dinosaurs in Paris, Atlas At Hold, Conspicuous

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

Nov. 4: HSYO Fall Concert
Nov. 16-17: Brahms’ Violin Concerto

Harrisburg University Presents
concertseries.harrisburgu.edu

Nov. 20: Dawes at XL Live

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

Nov. 8: Air Supply
Nov. 12: Jessie Murph

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

Nov. 1: Cazhmiere, Jim & Michele
Nov. 2: Classic Stones (Tribute Band), Dave Kelly Duo
Nov. 8: Rumor Has It, The Enlisted
Nov. 9: M80 Band
Nov. 15: The Amish Outlaws, Jim & Michele
Nov. 16: Kevin Miller’s Classic Kings, Joe Cooney & Friends
Nov. 22: Until Sunrise, Jason Carst
Nov. 23: New Normal Band, Vertigo Vultures
Nov. 27: Downtown Sound, Grant Bryan
Nov. 29: The Luv Gods, Shine Delphi
Nov. 30: Dance Fever, Brenda Brune

Keystone Capital Chorus
717-350-5712; kccsing.com

Nov. 9: “Treasures in the Attic” concert at VFW Post 7530 at Mechanicsburg

Kulkarni Theatre at Penn State Harrisburg
777 W. Harrisburg Pike, Middletown
717-948-6000; www.harrisburg.psu.edu

Nov. 15: Martha Redbone Roots Project

Lovedraft’s Brewing Co.
165 Gateway Dr., Mechanicsburg
717-610-3331; lovedraftsbrewing.com

Nov. 1: Miss May I
Nov. 3: New Years Day
Nov. 8: Bable Map
Nov. 9: King Buffalo
Nov. 10: Reign of Z and Bullet to the Heart
Nov. 14: Filth
Nov. 23: Mortician
Nov. 30: Lollapalooza Tribute

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

Nov. 3: Celtic Thunder
Nov. 7: So Good! The Neil Diamond Experience
Nov. 17: Shippensburg University Community Orchestra
Nov. 30: The Oak Ridge Boys

Market Square Concerts
marketsquareconcerts.org

Nov. 9: Tempesta di Mare

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

Nov. 9: Jazz Ensemble Concert
Nov. 15: Wind Symphony Concert
Nov. 22: Symphony Orchestra Concert

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

Nov. 2: Messiah University Percussion Ensemble
Nov. 7: U.S. Navy Band Commodores
Nov. 8: Messiah University Wind Ensemble and Symphonic Winds
Nov. 11, 18: Messiah University Chamber Ensemble
Nov. 12: Messiah University Brass Choir and Brass Studios
Nov. 19: Messiah University Vocal Jazz
Nov. 22: Messiah University Symphony Orchestra

Susquehanna Chorale
One College Ave., Mechanicsburg
717-533-7859; susquehannachorale.org

Nov. 24: Youth Concert

The Susquehanna Folk Music Society
717-745-6577; sfmsfolk.org

Nov. 10: Nov. Jam & Song Swap
Nov. 10: Fall Open Mic Night
Nov. 13: Palmyra with Vince Yarnell

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

Nov. 2: Keller Williams
Nov. 8: GoGo Gadjet
Nov. 9: The Ten Bend—Pearl Jam Tribute
Nov. 13: Railroad Earth, Twisted Pine
Nov. 15: Josh Ross
Nov. 16: Marshall Crenshaw, James Mastro
Nov. 18: York Lore, Runner
Nov. 19: The Wood Brothers, Lindsay Lou
Nov. 20: Harrisburg University presents Dawes
Nov. 21: Tropidelic, Kash’d and the Quasi Kings
Nov. 22: White Ford Bronco—All 90s Band
Nov. 23: Tauk
Nov. 30: The Badlees, Chad Taylor and Friends, Aaron Fink

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

Nov. 3: Trace Morgan
Nov. 8: Nicks in Time: Stevie Nicks Tribute
Nov. 9: Creedence Clearwater Remixed
Nov. 12: Harrisburg Jazz Collective
Nov. 15: The Beatles and Beyond starring the Mahoney Brothers
Nov. 16: Sempre Dolce
Nov. 16: Unforgettable Big Band

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

Nov. 19: !BAM! Percussion—“Blue Barrel Show”
Nov. 27: The Machine Performs Pink Floyd

The Stage Door

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

Nov. 5-Dec. 30: “The 2024 Christmas Show—Joy to The World”

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

Nov. 16: Jeff Boy’s Big Bubble Bonanza
Nov. 16: Earl David Reed
Nov. 27: “Chicago”

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

Nov. 1-2: “Hairspray”
Nov. 8-Jan.5: “White Christmas”

The Englewood
1219 Research Blvd., Hummelstown
717-256-9480; englewoodhershey.com

Nov. 23: Jeff Leeson

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

Nov. 2-17: “The Pirates of Penzance”
Nov. 6-23: “Stone Soup” w/Popcorn Hat Players

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

Nov. 2: “Laugh My A$$ Off” with Flipp, Tay2Tv, Wild N Out, Troy Borwn, Famous Angel
Nov. 15: “UpDating”
Nov. 23: Steve Hofstetter

Harrisburg Christian Performing Arts Center
1000 S. Eisenhower Blvd, Middletown
717-939-9333; thehcpac.org

Nov. 15-17: “The Addams Family Friday”

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

Nov. 1, 2: Raymond the Amish Comic
Nov. 8: Roy Haber and Danielle Wornall
Nov. 15, 16: Bret Raybould
Nov. 22, 23: Larry XL and Sean Harper
Nov. 27: Earl David Reed Thanksgiving Eve Comedy Show
Nov. 29, 30: Chris Harvey

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

Nov. 14-17: “Blithe Spirit”

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

Nov. 2: Bright Star Theatre presents “Winnie the Pooh”

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

Nov. 7: State Ballet of Ukraine presents “Swan Lake”
Nov. 22: Derek Hough—“Dance for the Holidays”
Nov. 26-Dec. 8: “Hamilton”

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

Nov. 2, 9, 16: “Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day”

Little Theatre of Mechanicsburg
915 S. York St., Mechanicsburg
717-766-0535; ltmpa.com

Nov. 25-Dec. 11: “One Christmas Eve at Evergreen Mall”

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

Nov. 2: “The Nutcracker”
Nov. 22: Nurse Blake

Market Cross Pub & Brewery
113 N. Hanover St., Carlisle
717-258-1234; marketcrosspub.com

Nov. 7, 14, 21, 28: Magical Thursdays with Kyle Purnell

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

Nov. 14-24: “Tartuffe”
Nov. 21: “Blue Christmas” Dance Concert

Open Stage
223 Walnut St., Harrisburg
717-232-OPEN; openstagehbg.com

Nov. 1: “Court Street Cabaret—Oversung Edition”
Nov. 3: “Big Wigs”
Nov. 23-Dec. 22: “Who’s Holiday!”
Nov. 30-Dec. 22: “A Christmas Carol”

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

Nov. 8-24: “The Musical Comedy Murders of 1940”

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

Nov. 8-24: “Into the Woods”

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