Tag Archives: Bob’s Art Blog

The Week that Was: News and features around Harrisburg

August 5, 2022 | by Lawrance Binda and Maddie Gittens

On Friday, Harrisburg Public Works Department employees removed trash from an illegal dump site on Atlas Street, between Maclay and Woodbine streets.

Community-centric journalism is at the heart of what we do, and several stories from this week showcased our focus. Stay in the know on what’s happening in your community by reading this week’s news, linked below.

August happenings in the Harrisburg area are in full swing. Find plenty of fun ways to spend the month, here. For even more ways to spend your summer days, check out our Community Corner.

A bike share program will return to Harrisburg under new leadership, our online story reported. Tri-County Regional Planning Commission will oversee the new “SusqueCycle” initiative to provide another mode of transportation to the city.

Bob’s Art Blog shares the latest news in the Harrisburg area art world. Featured this month is an exhibit on mushrooms in York and a part-gallery-part-restaurant space in Lancaster.

Dauphin County held an event to help people understand and address trauma, our online story reported. The idea for the event came after residents expressed concern following a violent incident at Harrisburg’s Fourth of July festival.

Concerts headed to the Harrisburg area in August are some of the best of the summer, our columnist writes. From pop star Lady Gaga to indie band Lord Huron to folk rockers Cordovas, there’s a little bit of everything.

Free ice cream raised money for the Salvation Army of Harrisburg at an event in Riverfront Park on Thursday, our reporting found. For the 10,000 Scoops Challenge, with each scoop of ice cream served, event co-host, Moose Track’s, donated $1 to the Harrisburg nonprofit.

Harrisburg and PennDOT installed two new signs to help deter truck drivers from passing under the railroad bridge on Front Street, where many often get stuck, our online story reported. The city also plans to increase enforcement for those who break the law.

Harrisburg’s unhoused population now has another place to shower, our online story reported. Amiracle4sure, with help from the Capital Area Coalition on Homelessness, has opened its facilities for weekly use by those in need.

Illegal dumping has been a continuous issue in Harrisburg, but the city is taking increased measures to prevent it, our online story reported. The Department of Public Works will install new cameras and use its increasing number of employees to its advantage.

Local produce enjoyed by central Pennsylvanians each summer is harvested by hand. In our magazine story, read about the workers who get your fruits and veggies from farm to table.

Sara Bozich has a full list of events in her Weekend Roundup. If you’re looking for something to do, look no further.

Susquehanna River islands are up for sale for the first time in over a century, our reporting found. The pair of islands have an interesting history that’s tied to the family who has owned them for generations.

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Bob’s Art Blog: Fungi, The Fridge and Friday exhibits

August 3, 2022 | by Bob MacGinnes

Art by Kate Durgin

Hive Art Space, York

A mushroom walks into a restaurant and the owner says, “We don’t serve your kind here.” The mushroom, momentarily stunned, quickly blurts out, “But I’m a fun-gi.” So many lovers of the ‘shroom will agree with that. This is the premise for the new show, “Mycotopia” opening this Friday night for York’s First Friday, from 5 to 9 p.m.

Susan Scofield, owner/proprietress of Hive Art Space in the white rose city dedicates her entire gallery to saluting this delicacy for August. Susan, after all, is the “queen of theme” so much so that she dedicates one all-encompassing category to each month of the year. Past months have featured birds, water worlds, insects, the color green and the list goes on. That also includes an ever-changing roster of artists from up and down the Eastern seaboard. This month, the stems and caps of the mushroom take on the world in “Mycotopia” as interpreted by a quirky collective of artists. Among those are Heather Greenough, Juliann Langeheine, Kate Durgin, Lex Rickabaugh and Savannah Schroll Guz, Jim Hively, Tina Berrier and Tara Poe, who represent eight of the 50 entries.

The gallery is located at 126 E. King St., in the heart of The Royal Square district. This enclave is a microcosm of Bourbon St in New Orleans. Found flitting around the gallery as Hive helpers are Susan’s “gals Friday” aka Kate Rush and Jen Simon. E. King Street becomes a jumping-off point as art can be found lining the avenue. Restaurants, coffee houses and several galleries and shops make it a destination for diversity. The only bittersweet aspect is when artists leave the hive for national fame which reflects the caliber of creatives that the Hive attracts. For a space that takes great advantage of every available inch, Hive’s sales per square foot are exponentially astronomical. The volume of art sold is amazing and points to the little engine that could, and make no mistake, Susan Scofield is the conductor driving the train.

Hive’s exhibits are free and open to the public. Gallery hours for the summer are most Fridays, from 12 to 4 p.m., Saturdays, from 12 to 6 p.m. and Sundays, from 12 to 4 p.m. The first Friday of every month the gallery is open from 5 to 9 p.m. “Mycotopia” closes on Aug. 28. For more information, call 917-971-7456.

The Fridge, Lancaster

Looking to chill out this summer? An out-of-town locale just miles away in Lancaster provides the perfect antidote to the dog days of summer. The Fridge at 534 N. Mulberry St. is part restaurant, part café, part beer emporium and features local art and artists. Sound familiar? Actually, they first had the idea eleven years ago, to be exact. One of their featured artists from years past was none other than Tara Chickey, art director of Millworks who provided a bridge for the current show by the Huckle Buckle Boys. One of the establishment’s principals, Kevin Brown, chatted up Zack Rudy of the Huckle Buckle Boys at the artists’ Millworks studio, convincing them to come to Lancaster for a summer show. Helping to celebrate the Fridge’s 11^th anniversary in August, the zany, always out-of-this-world art of the Huckle Buckle Boys provides The Fridge with the perfect backdrop for a party. Garrick Dorsett and Zack Rudy of HBB fame reign supreme no matter the location or destination.

“Flock Together” by The Huckle Buckle Boys

Brown and partner, James Futty, shared that they offer 400 choices of craft beers, serve flatbread pizzas and a full food menu, with their own wine shop on the premises too. And the astounding art provides the icing on the cake. Kevin intoned that the art was intentional and integral to The Fridge’s concept from the very start. For more information, go to beerfridgelancaster.com or call 717-490-6825.

Carlisle Arts Learning Center, Carlisle

This Friday, opening night festivities at CALC offer a dual show. “At the Table” features a trio of ceramists—Kirsten Olson, Janelle Hoch and Amy Le Fever—who “nourish mind, body and soul with ceramic sculptural works.” The Upper Gallery features diverse paintings from Jonathan Frazier, Thom Kulp and Geoffrey Thulin for “In Full Chroma.” An exhibit reception takes place from 5:30 to 7 p.m. at 38 W. Pomfret St. Exhibits run through Sept. 10. For more information, call 717-249-6973.

The Millworks, Harrisburg

Odd Ones Bizarre takes place on Saturday, Aug. 13 on the lawn adjacent to Millworks, from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., with beer, music, vendors and fun galore. Check out the Millworks lobby to see art by the Huckle Buckle Boys, Ann Yeager, Susan Bailey, Rexmake and Pat Frese. Find more information at millworksharrisburg.com.

Mt. Gretna Art Show

The 48^th Annual Outdoor Art Show “Under the Trees of Old Chautauqua” takes place on Aug. 20 to 21. It runs on Saturday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. and on Sunday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. For more information, call 717-964-3270.

On a final note, we would like to wish our favorite artist Happy Birthday. Rembrandt lives!

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The Week that Was: News and features around Harrisburg

July 15, 2022 | by Lawrance Binda and Maddie Gittens

PA Secretary of Agriculture Russell Redding and The Bridge CEO Garry Gilliam at the organization’s “bleacher garden”

Celebrate 3rd in the Burg tonight (Friday) with some of TheBurg staff at Sip@SoMa! Before you head out to enjoy a night around the city, catch up on this week’s news from around the Harrisburg area, below.

Bob’s Art Blog highlighted two artists who share a passion for sustainability. In Bob’s July column, read about Phil Wells of Millworks Studio 213 and local jewelry maker Jennifer Hara, here.

The Bridge Ecovillage showed off its “bleacher garden” to state Secretary of Agriculture Russell Redding during Urban Ag Week, our online story reported. The garden, located behind The Bridge’s building and former Bishop McDevitt High School, provides produce to local residents in need.

Children of Gettysburg 1863 is a new museum that provides hands-on learning opportunities for kids. In our magazine story, read about how the museum teaches history through books, scavenger hunts, puzzles and interactive displays.

Detweiler Park in Middle Paxton Township is on track to receive a multi-million-dollar renovation, our magazine story reported. The project will include constructing event and gathering spaces, bathrooms, additional trails and other amenities.

A Harrisburg basketball league is bringing community and unity to Reservoir Park, our magazine story reported. The organizer, Foundation 717, hopes to make the league a place for positivity in the midst of competition.

Harrisburg’s downtown post office is moving to a new location, our reporting found. Harristown Enterprises announced that the Federal Station Post Office will relocate about one block away, inside of Strawberry Square.

Harrisburg plans to apply for $18 million in state COVID relief funding, our online story reported. The city has proposed using the money for park, pool and Public Safety Building renovations.

Home sales fell this month in the Harrisburg area while prices rose, our reporting found. For the three-county region, a total of 770 houses sold, compared to 826 in June 2021, as the median price rose to $264,050 from $230,000 last year.

The Keystone Inn is Gettysburg’s first Black-owned bed and breakfast, our magazine story reported. The inn’s opening comes at a time when B&B-based travel is surging following the pandemic.

The Maclay Street Bridge is set to be replaced by PennDOT, our reporting found. PennDOT has opened the comment period for the project, which will remain through Aug. 5.

Palmyra resident Richard Powell judges show dogs at the highest level, our magazine story reported. Last month, the 77-year-old was a judge at the 146th annual Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show.

Sara Bozich has lots of live music on the weekend lineup, as Harrisburg University Presents kicks off its summer concert series. Additionally, there are pop-up markets, food truck festivals, art events and something for everyone this weekend.

A Ukraine benefit concert will be held on Aug. 14 at Whitaker Center in Harrisburg, our online story reported. Neighbors Debra Yates and Sheldon Jones organized the concert after deciding they wanted to do something to help the war-torn country.

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The Week that Was: News and features around Harrisburg

June 17, 2022 | by Lawrance Binda and Maddie Gittens

Owners Bryanna and Anthony Graham of Midtown Juice Lab, which is set to open in Harrisburg next week

After Thursday night’s downpour, it’s looking like warm, sunny days ahead for the weekend. Make sure to celebrate Juneteenth, share some love with your dad on Father’s Day, and catch up on all of the week’s local news, below.

Bob’s Art Blog has lots to share about local art events coming up, including a Broad Street Market sign re-lighting and Metropolis Collective gallery’s anniversary party.

The Broad Street Market will ceremonially re-light its iconic sign on Friday, during 3^rd in the Burg, our online story reported. The sign was refurbished and reinstalled in April, after suffering severe wind damage.

The Capital Area Greenbelt Association held its 2022 Tour de Belt on June 5 and raised $59,425 to support its beautification efforts, our online story reported. Nearly 1,200 people made the 20-mile loop around the Greenbelt.

Cordier Auctions & Appraisals will hold another in a series of auctions of artifacts acquired by long-time Harrisburg Mayor Steve Reed, our reporting found. The auction, featuring many items with ties to the historical American West and the U.S. military, will open next week.

Eniola African Food Store recently opened in Allison Hill in Harrisburg, our online story reported. The shop offers a wide range of African products, something that the city was previously missing, according to owner Eniola Iruaregbon.

Friends of Midtown announced the schedule for its free summer Outdoor Film Series, our online story reported. Throughout the season, animated, action and cult-favorite movies will hit the big screen outside Midtown Cinema in Harrisburg.

Harrisburg City Council voted to approve the use of about $15.6 million in federal COVID relief dollars, our online story reported. The city will use those funds to finance an HVAC upgrade for its Public Safety Building and for benefits for fire and police bureau employees.

The Harrisburg School District seems likely to remain in receivership, as the Pennsylvania Department of Education has filed a petition for an extension for another three years, our reporting found. If the extension is approved by the Dauphin County Court of Common Pleas, Receiver Dr. Lori Suski would remain in the post through mid-2025.

The Harrisburg Symphony Orchestra announced that it will offer free concerts during the July 4^th weekend, our online story reported. The tour will travel to five local venues from June 30 to July 4 and conclude at Reservoir Park in Harrisburg.

Immigrant Heritage Month was celebrated in Harrisburg this week as the Dauphin County commissioners recognized several immigrant-owned businesses, our online story reported. Business owners also participated in a roundtable discussion.

The Jewish Federation of Harrisburg is moving into the former Dixon Center with big plans for the space. In our magazine story, read about the organization’s goals for its future and how it hopes to impact central PA.

Jubilee Day returned to Mechanicsburg this week with vendors, music, food and carnival rides. Read more about the significance and history of the day, in our magazine story.

Juneteenth will be celebrated by Harrisburg and Dauphin County on June 18 with food trucks, vendors and music, our online story reported. According to Mayor Wanda Williams, this is the first time the city will hold a festival for the holiday.

Loe Badgett, a Harrisburg rapper, released a new song in partnership with the city to promote anti-gun violence, our online story reported. Harrisburg Police Commissioner Thomas Carter hopes the song, “Break the Cycle,” will inspire local youth.

The Lofts officially broke ground in the former Salvation Army building at Green and Cumberland streets in Midtown Harrisburg, our online story reported. The project, which is being developed by Wormleysburg-based Integrated Development Partners, will feature 16 apartment units.

Midtown Juice Lab will open in Harrisburg on June 25, offering juices, smoothies and acai bowls, our reporting found. Owners Bryanna and Anthony Graham hope to inspire people to eat healthy.

Sara Bozich has a long list of this weekend’s events, including ways to spend Juneteenth and Father’s Day. Find out what’s happening in the Harrisburg area, here.

Stewed rhubarb with red berries is on the menu for June in Rosemary’s cooking column. Find out how to make the simple dessert, here.

Theatre Harrisburg’s season wraps up with “Vanya and Sonia and Masha and Spike,” which portrays the family dynamics of three middle-aged, discontented siblings. The show runs through June 19. Read more, in our online story.

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Bob’s Art Blog: 3rd in The Burg Preview Weekend; This, That and the Other

May 16, 2022 | by Bob MacGinnes

THIS: 94^th International Juried Art Show at AAH

May signifies several arrivals, from May Day to the flowers that bloom to my birthday and, just days later, 3^rd in the Burg. This May’s edition speaks to longevity, too. Not me at 71 years old, but the Art Association of Harrisburg’s 94^th Juried International Art Show with its opening reception on Friday night from 5 to 8 p.m.

“La Petite Mort” by Nicole Dube

After 90-plus years of this global show, the AAH has it down to a science. Curator Rachel O’Connor and CEO Carrie Wissler-Thomas promise a stellar cast of artists and art from near and far. The gallery will be chock full, covering every medium imaginable. Juried selections are being finalized with submissions aplenty. Ms. O’Connor captured one under serious consideration for a preview glimpse.

Carlisle photographer extraordinaire, Nicole Dube, created a digital photograph that is thought provoking and haunting with a nod to portraiture of the past. Dube’s staging was potent enough to capture the second-place award in photography for this prestigious show. Her focus is a lovely female figure in repose, slouched down in a chair that alludes to an air of mystery shrouding the scene. The color photograph, entitled “La Petite Mort,” only widens the divide as open-ended and with inconclusive evidence in view.

Better call Poirot. Festivities for Friday night feature artist/musician Jonathan Frazier, laying down music perfect for the season. Guest juror is Nadiah Rivera Fellah, curator at the Cleveland Museum of Art. Exhibit sponsors are Traci Meloni and David Volkman. The show runs from May 20 to July 7.

Art by Wei Guo Peaden

The international theme continues at Harrisburg’s MLK City Government Center. Operating under the umbrella of the AAH, Carrie Wissler-Thomas provides area businesses with art exhibits. Chinese artist Wei Guo Peaden showcases art diversity through her “Traditional Chinese Paintings,” which foster community involvement. The show runs now through Aug. 31 at city hall. The exhibit features watercolors with ink. Chinese traditional painting subscribes to the aesthetic employed in calligraphy, adhering to finely executed brush strokes. The show is open to the public during regular business hours at 1 N. 2^nd St., Harrisburg.

THAT: Youth Art Exhibit at Nyeusi Gallery

At what age does possessing artistic talent begin and creativity start? In all likelihood, in the womb, as mankind is genetically wired at birth. That predisposition takes root when mentored by parents, teachers and even friends of a like mind.

Nyeusi Gallery in Midtown is giving children, ages 5 and up, their own exclusive exhibit to show their art, with an opening reception on Sunday, May 22, at 6 p.m. Before the gallery opened its doors last September, one of its foundational cornerstones was built around community involvement beyond the Midtown corridor where Nyeusi is located at 1224 N. 3rd St. This latest exhibit will add one more dimension to that promise. After all, the future lies in the hands of our youth, both intellectually and creatively.

Gallery owners Dr. Dale Dangleben and Michelle Green are playbook proponents of placing programs promoting art at the center stage of their mission to keep young people involved. Through interest and endeavors that engage young hands as well as minds, Nyeusi keeps exploring new avenues for participation.

In addition to youth art, Michelle holds regular chess club sessions for kids while her partner keeps the intellect sharpened by featuring trivia podcasts imparting wisdom for all ages. Both invite young and old alike to this first annual “Youth Art Exhibit” this Sunday evening. Bring the kids and grandkids to open up a world of possibilities. After all, there is no age limit when it comes to art. The exhibit runs May 22 to June 22.

THE OTHER

A thank-you event recently took place at the Carlisle Arts Learning Center (CALC) on Cinco de Mayo, the art haven hosting a party for M&T Bank’s salute to nonprofits in the area. Setting the stage is a crucial part of the puzzle for any event, requiring an artistic ambience that sets the bar high. No one does it better than the ladies at CALC. This party was spearheaded by Maureen Madio, who paid great attention to the smallest details.

Cinco de Mayo at Carlisle Arts Learning Center

Entering the upstairs gallery at CALC, guests were transported to Mexico’s land of enchantment with handmade paper flowers forming a garden of gorgeous grandeur. Making Madio’s May flowers even prettier than the real deal was no easy feat, but she topped that off by mixing a medley of margaritas, made memorable by their colorful array. She was assisted by Cathy Stone, curator, Becky Richeson, executive director, and Lauren Aungst, ceramic studio coordinator, as well as Savannah Manetta, art instructor at CALC and the AAH.

The party was a hit by all standards. The fete thanked the nonprofits of Carlisle and featured an impassioned speech by Morgan Rector, vice president of M&T Bank, who eloquently paid tribute to the tireless board members and staff who often operate behind the scenes. These nonprofits are agents of change, making the Carlisle community a noteworthy contributor to a better way of life in central PA. The longstanding partnership, with CALC hosting this annual event, is underwritten by M&T Bank in recognition of nonprofits’ achievements and services.

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The Week that Was: News and features around Harrisburg

April 1, 2022 | by Lawrance Binda and Maddie Gittens

Jamien Harvey, executive director of the Camp Curtin and East Shore YMCA, at the site of an affordable housing development project in Uptown.

Ready for spring? We sure are. This month’s home and garden issue of the TheBurg magazine features all the things, green and leafy, that spring brings. Look for the cover with lots of plants. and grab a copy of the April issue. And, of course, don’t miss out on this week’s local news, listed below.

Art in the Wild returns to Wildwood Park in April, celebrating its 10^th anniversary. In our magazine story, get a behind-the-scenes look at the event that features art made of elements found in nature.

Bob’s Art Blog features a fun April Fools’ Day twist and showcases art happenings at The Millworks.

The Camp Curtin branch of the YMCA in Harrisburg began construction on an affordable housing project in Uptown, our online story reported. The development will include four single-family homes for low-income residents.

Church World Service hosted a night at the movies this week in celebration of the opening of its new Harrisburg office, our online story reported. The organization will provide services to refugees including case management, basic needs support and cultural orientation, among others.

The Dauphin County Library System kicked off National Library Week with the county commissioners reading to local students, our online story reported. Also this week, they are asking residents to participate in a connectivity survey.

Our editor discusses the newspaper industry and the importance of local news to a community, in his April Editor’s Note.

Five candidates will compete in the race for the redrawn 103^rd House district, which may prove to be especially hot. To find out who will be included on the primary ballot in May, click here.

Harrisburg Havoc, the area’s new women’s tackle football team, will take the field for their first season on April 9, our reporting found. According to players, the team has provided a way for women to participate in a sport that they’ve largely been left out of.

Harrisburg will plant over 50 new trees in Allison Hill throughout April, our online story reported. The city is seeking volunteers to assist with the plantings.

John Wilsbach is central PA’s traffic guy, our magazine story reported. He updates central Pennsylvania commuters on traffic conditions multiple times each workday, mainly during rush hours, 52 weeks of the year.

The Ronald McDonald House in central PA provides a home for families with children receiving treatment at Penn State Health Children’s Hospital. In our magazine story, read more about the services and care that the organization has given to over 1,000 families annually.

Rubicon will host a dinner to raise funds for the family of a Ukrainian staff member, among other relief efforts, our reporting found. The multi-course meal will feature traditional Ukrainian dishes.

Sara Bozich has weekend recommendations from concerts to beer trails and art outings. Click here to view them all.

Spring events are in full swing this month. See what’s happening in the Harrisburg area in April, here.

Trader Joe’s opened in Camp Hill on Thursday, our online story reported. Customers waited in a line that wrapped around the building on opening day.

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The Week that Was: News and features around Harrisburg

February 11, 2022 | by Lawrance Binda and Maddie Gittens

Harrisburg City Council held three budget hearings this week.

Here’s to a sunny weekend in Harrisburg! As the city begins to defrost, get out and enjoy a taste of spring. Don’t miss out on all of our local news coverage from this week, listed below.

American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) money will be the topic of discussion at a series of meetings that Harrisburg plans to hold, our online story reported. The city will host five meetings to gather input from residents on how they want to see the millions in federal assistance utilized.

In Bob’s Art Blog the theme is love, fitting for the upcoming holiday. He highlights the “Love, Love Market” featuring hand-made ceramics, jewelry and flower arrangements in Carlisle this weekend.

TheBurg Podcast came out today and features interviews with three fascinating local women. Hear from Dr. Kimeka Campbell, founder of the Harrisburg Black Newsbeat, Sue Kunisky of Visit Hershey & Harrisburg, and Wendy Allen of Lincoln into Art.

Dave Madsen, a Harrisburg City Council member announced that he will toss his hat into the ring for one of the city’s newly drawn seats in the state House of Representatives, our reporting found. Madsen will seek the Democratic nomination for the new 104^th legislative district.

“Echoes of Voices of the Eighth,” produced by Sankofa African American Theatre Company, opens on Friday night at Gamut Theatre. According to our reviewer, it offers a night of history, depth and enlightenment. Read more about the show, in our magazine story.

Eric Epstein, a long-time activist, and Susquehanna Township Commissioner Justin Fleming both said that they would seek the Democratic nomination for the PA House in the newly redrawn 105^th legislative district, our online story reported.

A GoFundMe raised thousands of dollars to support two young girls whose parents, Meredith Greene and Tyler Thames, were killed in a shooting this week in Harrisburg. Within a day, the fundraiser had garnered over $20,000, our reporting found.

Harrisburg City Council held the first of three budget workshops, where they discussed the public safety budget, our reporting found. The administration proposed allocating funding to new positions within the police and fire bureaus.

Harrisburg’s Federal Building has a new plan as an upscale apartment building and nightlife complex, our online story reported. Justin Etzin, principal of Global Ocean Investments Ltd., said that he plans to transform the building into “The Federal,” a 288-unit “luxury” apartment building, plus restaurants and bars.

Home sales in Harrisburg were mostly flat in January, but prices were up, our online story reported. For the three-county region, sales totaled 499 housing units compared to 508 in January 2021, but the median sales price rose to $211,900 versus $194,700 in the year-ago period.

Riodine, a Russian/American band, recently released their debut album, “Practical Men,” our magazine story reported. The musical stylings of the members of Riodine have been influenced by the harder rock music of the 1970s.

Sara Bozich is right on time with her Weekend Roundup. Enjoy the warmer weather and find a fun way to spend the next few days.

Taste of Asia recently opened in Mechanicsburg, offering ramen, Chinese and Thai cuisine, our magazine story reported. The restaurant operates out of the building where Tri Asian Taste was previously housed.

Visit Hershey & Harrisburg has created a resource for people who want to learn about and visit Black restaurants, shops, cafés and venues, as well as cultural and other events. Read more about The Black Travel Experience in our magazine story.

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Bob’s Art Blog: Fishing for a Valentine at The Pond

February 8, 2022 | by Bob MacGinnes

At this frigid time of year, ice fishing is in full swing in Fairbanks, Alaska, once home to artist Kirsten Olson, now of Carlisle.

She is the ceramist/potter in residence at The Pond art studio on Pomfret Street in Carlisle. Having received her fine arts degree from the University of Alaska, Olson became enamored with the iconography of the far north, incorporating it into her vessels of rare beauty. The concept of ice fishing becomes “watered down” for a Valentine’s “Love, Love Market,” taking place this Friday, Feb. 11 through 14, open 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily.

The image on the invitation is precise, concise and collaboratively cohesive. “Love” and its adornments fill the frame. Red roses arranged in a cream-colored ceramic vessel, held by the hands of a woman wearing elegantly simple jewelry, combine the talents and products of a trio of creatives, friends and cohorts. Olson, Brenda Leach and Shannon Babinsack share a common bond of unity and esprit-de-corps much like the Three Musketeers. For their first annual “Love, Love Market” at The Pond, the rapiers of the Musketeers have been sheathed with nary a blade in sight, save for the steel of a florist’s shears to cut stems from flowers.

Piece made by Kirsten Olson

Olson loves creating ceramic treasures, enjoys being surrounded with beautiful things, both natural and hand-wrought, relishes the company of good friends, likes to throw a party that lasts for days and appreciates meeting new people, she said.

Leach loves working with precious metals and gemstones. She designs exquisite necklaces, cuffs, bracelets and watches, using ethically sourced sea glass and pearls, as well. Leach works in silver, 22K gold and Argentium. She is a jewelry fabricator, executing fine, wearable art, elegantly simplistic and timeless. “I use traditional and ancient methods of jewelry making to design pieces with an aesthetic that is both classic and modern,” Leach explained.

Arrangement by Shannon Babinsack

Babinsack loves growing, showing and arranging flowers that are different from what one normally finds in florist shops. They are all seasonally grown and locally sourced, fresh from her Crimson Clover Flower Farm. The farm offers weekly flower share memberships to the public. Shannon takes great pride in her variety of botanicals and flora. She shared that “collaboration is key to reaching a wider audience and is crucial to creating an experience.”

Beauty is paramount in the range of gifts offered by these comrades-in-charms. Olson describes the idea behind the market as a “fun event that celebrates all forms of love, including the love we have as makers of our process, materials and patrons. Is there a better way to show the ones we love our feelings than with hand-made, from-the-heart art?”

Jewelry made by Brenda Leach

The Pond is stocked with lures galore, some shiny and sparkly, others crafted to hold the “catch of the day,” as well as fresh-cut posies, fragrantly rare. The best part? You can leave the fishing pole at home.

More Special Art Events for February

The buzz is all about HIVE artspace in York, which announced its February show, “Crush,” open from Feb. 4 to 27 at 126 E. King St. It’s an exhibit that explores the human heart and love in its ability to break and heal, as expressed by 40 local and international artists. A “Stateful Eight” group of artists examines the theme of love across varied mediums of expression. Making such heartfelt statements are Cecelia Ash, Quinn Berger, Tina Berrier, Gail Walden Coleman, Nicole Smeltzer, Faith Sylor, Daphne Watts and Chad Whitaker. For more info, visit Hiveartspace.com.

Susquehanna Art Museum will unveil two centuries of American landscape painting, opening Feb. 12 through May 22 in the Lehr Gallery. “In Nature’s Studio” encompasses early renderings of “bucolic American vistas, intimate forest interiors and sweeping panoramic views of natural wonders.” “In Nature’s Studio” is organized by the Reading Public Museum. For more info, visit www.susquehannaartmuseum.org.

The Art Association of Harrisburg will open its latest show, “Beauty & Discovery.” The artists’ invitational features the work of two abstract painters, Pamela J. Black and Jessie Waite, along with photographer, Ashley Moog Bowlsbey. This fourth Friday opening reception takes place on Feb. 25 at the gallery, starting at 5 p.m. Vocalist Benjamin Krumreig, will perform during the event. The exhibit runs through March 31. For more info, visit https://www.artassocofhbg.com.

The Pond is located at 32-34 Pomfret St., Carlisle. For more information about the “Love, Love Market,” click here.

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The Week that Was: News and features around Harrisburg

January 28, 2022 | by Lawrance Binda and Maddie Gittens

Harrisburg Young Professionals announced Meghan Bachmore as their new executive director.

Have you spotted February’s cover yet? A new issue of the magazine hits stands today! This month, read stories featuring Black history and culture in honor of the month-long holiday. Catch up on this week’s local news, below, and then go grab a copy of the magazine.

Amethyst Retreat Center in Duncannon holds events and programming centered around a culture of wellness, our magazine story reported. Connecting people with nature, an inclusive mindset, and a focus on cultivating a diverse natural environment are core principles.

Blogger Bob rounds out the year in art with part II of his blog. Read about the Harrisburg area’s best exhibits of 2021, here.

Bridge of Hope, with 25 offices in 13 states, assists single mothers who are unhoused or facing homelessness, using social capital and “neighboring.” In our magazine story, hear from women who were impacted by the program and moved from feelings of despair to hope.

Capital Region Water appeared before members of the state Senate to address the commonwealth’s refusal to pay its assessed stormwater fees, our online story reported. According to CRW, if the state doesn’t pay its share, Harrisburg residents and business owners will have to pay more.

Dauphin County introduced a new online portal for its emergency rent and utility assistance program, our online story reported. The platform will make it easier for residents in need to apply for and receive help.

Our editor frets about the weather every month around our magazine distribution day. Will it be rainy, snowy or just right for delivery? In his editor’s note, he thanks TheBurg’s trusty delivery team who braves the weather and fills the many magazine racks and street boxes each month.

Harrisburg Young Professionals announced Meghan Bachmore as its new executive director, our reporting found. Bachmore fills a role with the organization that was empty for over two years.

Historic Harrisburg Association announced its proposed 2022 Preservation Priorities this week, our online story reported. Find out which historic Harrisburg properties are the most blighted and threatened.

LGBTQ+ youth can find an alliance and explore their identities in the Common Roads program—serving Dauphin, Cumberland, York and Lancaster counties. The program offers a drop-in social setting and community resources for youth and young adults, our magazine story reported.

Lynn Reigle is the owner of Arthur Murray Dance Studios in Lemoyne, York and Lancaster. In our story, read about the recent expansion of her Lemoyne location and why she loves to dance.

Raymonde “Ré” Désabres Plaut was a French artist who lived in Harrisburg before passing away in 2020. She was known for her in-home art gallery, her glamorous parties, her creativity, love and eccentricity. Read about Ré and her art in our magazine story.

Soup is the perfect meal to cook up on these cold winter days. Rosemary has your back in the kitchen with her pasta fazool recipe.

The Time Brothers, a local band, recently released their first album, “October,” our magazine story reported. The album meshes the musical styles of musicians Matt Wurst and Jim Grinnen.

Sara Bozich has you covered in the weekend plans department. For food, art and entertainment recommendations, click here.

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Support quality local journalism. Join Friends of TheBurg today!

The Week that Was: News and features around Harrisburg

January 21, 2022 | by Lawrance Binda and Maddie Gittens

At an open house, Harrisburg residents and activists voiced concerns to PennDOT about a Market Street rehab project.

We are in the thick of winter here in Harrisburg with temperatures that seem to just keep dropping. This weekend, stay warm and stay up to date on local news, which is listed and linked, below.

Arepa House recently opened in downtown Harrisburg, bringing authentic Venezuelan food to the area, our magazine story reported. The restaurant offers various types of arepa sandwiches to choose from, each featuring a varied combination of meat, cheeses, beans, plantains, avocados and/or veggies.

Blogger Bob shares last year’s highlights from the local art world in this first installment of a two-part blog. Take a look at the best exhibits of 2021, here.

Our Burg Review featured Narcisse Theatre’s new show “Kill Keller.” In the play, writer Paul Hood reopens wounds and bares his painful childhood.

Capital Blue Cross has some tips for how to handle stress and strengthen mental health. Find ways to lower stress levels, here.

Carolina Harvey of Susquehanna Township became the first Latina to host the long-running A&E television network series, “Hoarders” in 2021, our magazine story reported. On a day-to-day basis, Harvey helps clients tidy their homes through her business, Cure The Clutter.

The Central PA MLK Day of Service was held mainly on a virtual format due to the snow, our online story reported. The committee still had plenty of ways for the community to celebrate the holiday through live-streamed seminars and activities.

The Harrisburg Heat soccer team has returned to the pitch for a new season. In our magazine story, read about the team that’s been kicking it for years.

The Harrisburg School District announced that it would move to a virtual format this past week due to a rise in COVID cases, our online story reported. That was the second week in a row that the district has opted for virtual learning.

The Harrisburg Symphony Orchestra cancelled its weekend concerts due to the current spike in COVID cases, our online story reported.

A high-volume COVID testing site is planned to open soon at the Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center, our online story reported. The Department of Health has not yet released details on when the site will open.

Kesher Israel has moved from its long-time location to a new building on the 3000-block of N. 3^rd Street, our reporting found. The location provides a more modernized and centralized place for the synagogue.

Midtown Cinema is hosting a meet and greet with “The Room” star Greg Sestero this weekend. In our magazine story, read about the movie that has become a cult classic because of how bad it is.

PennDOT presented its plans for the Market Street Bridge renovation at a community open house, our online story reported. Many business owners and activists showed up to ask questions and voice concerns.

The People’s Budget team surveyed Harrisburg residents to find out what they wanted prioritized in the city’s 2022 budget, our online story reported. Results showed that people favored investment in housing, roads and infrastructure, among other items.

Sara Bozich has lots of fun ideas for your weekend, despite the cold weather. Take a look, here.

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

Support quality local journalism. Join Friends of TheBurg today!

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