Harrisburg Magazine April 2024

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MARCH 2024 HARRISBURG MAGAZINE 3 We make it easy to transform your kitchen! Our refacing process consists of high-quality materials that are durable, reliable, and easy to maintain. Refresh your kitchen in a fraction of the time and enjoy the new look for years to come! IN AS LITTLE AS 3-5 DAYS! 1-833-580-9968 kitchensaver.com 1-833-838-9917 bathfitter.com With hundreds of custom designs for showers or tubs, a one-day install† and a lifetime warranty‡, it’s no wonder 2 million happy customers have trusted Bath Fitter with their bath remodels. Contact us today to book your FREE consultation! Kitchen Saver of Central Pennsylvania Bath Fitter of Central Pennsylvania CELEB RATING40 YEARS A BETTER BATH REMODEL

The Harrisburg Stampede are back!

After a 10-year hiatus, the team launches its 2024 American Indoor Football schedule on April 6 at the Farm Show Complex.

Photo submitted.

DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS Darcy Oordt darcy@harrisburgmagazine.com

GENERAL MANAGER/DIRECTOR OF SALES Chris Aloia caloia@harrisburgmagazine.com

DIRECTOR OF DIGITAL MARKETING Jennifer George jgeorge@harrisburgmagazine.com

SENIOR

HOURS

ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE Fred Hershey fhershey@harrisburgmagazine.com

MANAGING EDITOR

Randy Gross rgross@harrisburgmagazine.com

ASSISTANT EDITOR

Imogene Gross imogene@harrisburgmagazine.com

GRAPHIC & LAYOUT DESIGNER

Danny Kilmer dkilmer@harrisburgmagazine.com

4 HARRISBURG MAGAZINE MARCH 2024 6 INTROSPECTION 8 GETTING READY FOR SPRING 12 ENTREPRENEURIAL SPIRIT 16 THE HOUSING SCENE 19 FINANCE HOUND 22 BY THE BOOK 25 FOR THE LOVE OF PETS 28 NOURISHING BITES 30 CUMBERLAND VALLEY RAIL TRAIL 35 WHAT'S COOKING? 36 TASTE THIS 40 FOODIES FOR THOUGHT 43 BARTENDER'S CHOICE 46 AFTER THE BEAT 49 CINEMATIC RAMBLINGS
PRESIDENT/CEO Darwin Oordt doordt@harrisburgmagazine.com
Ann
ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE Jo
Shover jshover@harrisburgmagazine.com
DISTRIBUTION MANAGER
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Gross
J. Rob CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS Imogene Gross Kimberly L. Morris Samuel J. Rob VOLUME 30 NO. 4 APRIL 2024 IN THIS ISSUE ... Harrisburg Magazine® is published monthly at 4309 Linglestown Road, Suite 115, Harrisburg, PA 17112. Phone: 717.233.0109; harrisburgmagazine.com. Subscriptions available. Send change of address forms to Benchmark Group Media, 4309 Linglestown Road, Suite 115, Harrisburg, PA 17112. This issue or any part thereof may not be reproduced in any form without written permission from Harrisburg Magazine®, Inc. Return postage must accompany all manuscripts, drawings, photographs and disks if they are to be returned, and no responsibility can be assumed for unsolicited materials. All rights in letters sent to Harrisburg Magazine® will be treated as unconditionally assigned for publication and copyright purposes and as such are subject to a right to edit and comment editorially. Name and contents ©2023, Harrisburg Magazine, Inc. Printed by Freeport Press, Freeport, Ohio. ON THE COVER HARRISBURGMAGAZINE.COM @HARRISBURGMAGAZINE HARRISBURG MAGAZINE 4309 LINGLESTOWN ROAD SUITE #115 HARRISBURG, PA 17112 (717) 233-0109
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Samuel
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PAGE 30 CUMBERLAND VALLEY RAIL TRAIL
MARCH 2024 HARRISBURG MAGAZINE 5

In April the blue mountain revises from white to green. The Boston Red Sox win a hundred straight games. The mouse rips the throat of the lion and the dead return.

April comes with hope. Hope that Old Man Winter has completely relinquished his grasp on Central PA’s weather. (Yes, there has been snow here in April before, most recently on April 2, 2018, when 3.9 inches were recorded at HIA). Hope that the new gardens we’re starting will bear a vintage crop of tomatoes, carrots, or <insert your preferred veggie here> in our backyards. Even hope – however exaggerated – that our favorite baseball team will go on a 100-game winning streak (and, no offense to Bosox fans or poet Donald Hall, as a lifelong Baltimore fan, I like my O’s chances of accomplishing such a feat more than Boston’s).

That rejuvenated feeling of hope can be seen everywhere this month –from the smile of the barista serving our morning coffee, to the mail carrier delivering packages with a bit more bounce in his step – and thus we are eager to highlight just a few of the people and places helping us all to view the world more optimistically this time of year.

As represented on our cover, there is more than just baseball to excite local

sports fans in April, as American Indoor Football is set to make a comeback when the Harrisburg Stampede suit up for their home debut at the Farm Show on April 6. The man responsible, owner Justin Coble, is profiled in our very first in what we hope will be a long series of Entrepreneurial Spirit features focusing on the best and most influential businesspeople in the Greater Harrisburg region.

April also delivers another annual “rite”: the start of voting for our next “Simply the Best” campaign! Starting April 15th, you can view the many nominees at our website (www.harrisburgmagazine.com) and then vote for all your favorites! Good luck to everyone!

Winter actually wasn’t too hard on us in Central PA, so let’s hope that April showers will not only bring May flowers, but also let up just enough for everyone to take advantage of Imogene Gross’s “Getting Ready for Spring” cleaning and gardening tips; Eileen Foyle’s tips on spring home buying (Housing Scene with Eileen); and Bryson Roof’s last-minute tax-filing tips (The Finance Hound).

In need of something to whet your appetite (or, as my late father used to say, “wet your whistle”?) We’ve got you covered – from breakfast to happy hour, to dinner! Start off with our Taste This review of the delicious bagels and bagel sandwiches from the recently rejuvenated Bagel Lovers Café. Then, you’ll surely feel like catching a show – and enjoying an adult beverage – at Open Stage in Harrisburg after reading our Bartender’s Choice profile of the very talented - and busy (he bartends at 3 bars in all!) – mixologist Griffin Evans. And, finally, cap off your day with our Foodies for Thought review of the fresh and flavorful Mediterranean dishes served up with a friendly smile – and sometimes a bit of belly dancing – at Cedars Lebanese Cuisine in Camp Hill.

Be sure to check out the rest of our columns, covering everything from pet care to books, and movies to music! And cheer on your favorite teams, whether their longest winning streaks end up totaling 1 or 100 games!

RG

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Getting Ready for Spring

Spring. A classic symbol of renewal. As the natural world springs back to life, so too do our impulses for a bit of a refresh.

Hence, during this time of year many find they’re full of new motivation for tasks around (and outside) the house. Many opt to deep clean their house from top to bottom. And, when it comes to us in the Northern hemisphere, spring obviously means new plant growth, and thus, getting out the gardening tools again.

If you’re feeling inspired by the coming of this spring but aren’t sure exactly what to put on your to-do list, here are some suggestions.

Spring Cleaning

Although it’s not universal, many cultures have some variation on spring cleaning.

For example, there is a Jewish tradition, dating back to ancient times, of thoroughly cleaning one’s house in anticipation of the spring festival of Passover. During Passover, in remembrance of the Israelites’ hasty departure from Egypt, there are prohibitions on eating anything leavened (chametz) or fermented. In preparation for the holiday, Jews are instructed to remove every bit of chametz from their homes, even the smallest

crumb of leavened bread. Those who observe this tradition will search the house for and clean up any potential remnants of the prohibited food.

A lot of mainstream spring-cleaning practices, as it turns out, involve cleaning up crumbs. If you eat on the couch, you’ll probably need to take the cushions off and give everything a good vacuum. And especially when deep-cleaning your kitchen, you might be surprised by how many crumbs fall into hard-to-reach places. If there are any gaps between your oven and counters, see if you can get in there and vacuum, as crumbs and dust like to accumulate there. You could place gap covers to help prevent things from falling in between. Clean out your fridge and pantry and defrost your freezer. Clean your oven and microwave to get out all the remnants of winter comfort food. Empty your toaster’s crumb tray and clean around and under small and large appliances. As the weather heats up, you’ll deter summer pests from your house.

In general, much of spring cleaning involves lifting the grime of winter. Tracking slush and road salt can make your car, shoes, and your doormats dirty, so be sure to give those all a good clean. A thorough mop of hard floors and a shampoo of carpets may be in order, too – but save them for

last, after you’ve taken care of higher surfaces. Wipe walls, baseboards, and the outside of cabinets, and polish wood and metal surfaces. Dust your fans, and clean or replace air and dryer vents or filters. Clean windows and screens, and wipe windowsills. Wash curtains, heavy winter bed furnishings, bathmats, and kids’ toys. And finally, keep your cleaning tools clean, too: run the clean cycle on your washing machine and dishwasher, wash your broom, and clean out your vacuum.

The other side of spring cleaning is tidying: organizing and decluttering your possessions. It could seem like a daunting task if you have a lot of stuff, but if you make a point to do it every year you can keep it from getting out of hand and avoid accidentally purchasing duplicates. Go through your storage spaces, evaluating whether you need each item, and if not, whether it is nice enough to sell or donate, or in such poor shape that it needs to be tossed. Go through your junk drawer and do the same – and organize like items together so it’s easy to find the things you do decide to keep. If you keep a collection of books, go through your bookshelves to reorganize your collection after a winter of cozy reading sessions. If you tend to buy a lot of toiletries and cosmetics, go through your stash and consider getting rid of anything you don’t use. If some bottles are still mostly full and within date, you might offer them to friends, or if they’re nearly empty or expired it might be better to toss them. Go through your closet. If you store outof-season clothes away, now might be the time to switch out wardrobes – while selling, donating, or trashing any unwanted items, and organizing the rest. If you have and use a lot of bags, go through them and their contents (who knows, you might even find a $20 bill you forgot about).

Getting Ready for Spring

Two other important tasks: check your smoke and carbon monoxide alarms, and your first aid kit. Change batteries as needed and update any items that may need it in your first aid kit. Aside from those – get your windows open and let that glorious spring air into your clean and clutter-free house.

Spring Gardening

For many, the first thing that comes to mind when you think of spring is: flowers! Tending to or planting flowers is a great way to welcome spring back into your life. As the weather starts warming up, be sure to clean away winter debris from your flowerbeds, cut any dried, dead foliage from the past year, and re-mulch. Keep in mind that it’s best to wait until several days of temperatures reaching 50 or more degrees Fahrenheit have passed, because it gives any beneficial bugs overwintering in plant debris the chance to wake up before their habitat is removed. You can divide your perennials, either to give some to friends or to create new plants to fill your flower garden, before spring growth begins. Plant new perennials, shrubs, and

trees before the summer heat, to give their roots time to settle, and prune existing trees and shrubs before they bloom.

Of course, spring isn’t only about the ornamental plants, and it’s never too early to think about your vegetable garden, when some vegetables can be started as early as February. April is a busy season for planting veggies that love slightly cooler weather. Think cool-season vegetables such as spinach, peas, and radishes. Research what plants can be planted in your garden directly from seed, and which are best to start indoors. Get together your gardening plan and organize your seeds so you know what to plant when.

You’ll need to assess what winter has wrought first, though. Go outside and search for any frost damage to any hardscaping, such as cracks in stepping stones or rotted and warped wood, and if you can, make repairs while your plants are still safely dormant. Look for animal burrows or any signs of damage to trees or shrubs from deer or other herbivores. Also, as plant growth picks up, look for any empty spaces in your garden and plan ahead for the fall planting season.

Before you start doing the bulk of your planting, pay attention to soil quality. If you haven’t had your soil tested recently, or ever, now’s the time. It’s recommended to test your soil every few years. Why? It can become unbalanced over time, having too much of one nutrient or not enough of another. The Penn State Extension is one local option for testing your soil. You can collect a sample and send it in to their lab for testing, and adjust your fertilizers based on the results. Speaking of soil quality, if you keep a compost bin or pile, now is the time to make room for the plant

debris that is about to collect rapidly as you prepare your garden. You can spread 1-2 inches of compost on your garden as a topdress. Your plants will thank you.

Finally, if you like making your garden a friendly place for birds as they come back for spring, make sure your bird feeder, bird bath, and birdhouses are clean, and remove any old nests from your trees. Some bird enthusiasts even leave out baskets of nest materials birds love, like feathers, string, twigs, moss, and pet fur. You can also plant plants that birds love, such as bachelor’s buttons, cherry trees, and foxglove.

Whatever you do to prepare for spring, make sure you have fun and don’t bite off more than you can chew. The goal is, ultimately, to enjoy the changing of the seasons. Give yourself time to rest and renew, just like the flora and fauna burgeoning as warmth and sunlight return, and you, too, will surely blossom this spring.

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Locked and #reloaded!

Entrepreneur Justin Coble Brings Arena Football Back to Harrisburg

Two things commonly come to mind this time of year. First, of course, is the sense of rejuvenation we all feel, spurred by the evidence of rebirth we see in our lawns and gardens. And along with that spring regrowth sprouts something else: the start of new seasons for several sports, usually baseball, accompanied by an optimism that just awoke from one of those long winter’s naps.

But there’s a new, fresh reason for optimism this April, and it can be credited to Justin Coble, who this month is being honored as the subject of Harrisburg Magazine’s first-ever Entrepreneurial Spirit feature for engineering a feat of rejuvenation and regrowth – or in his preferred words, reloading – all his own. And, unlike the sport of baseball, the game Coble is ready to reload isn’t played by “boys of summer,” but rather athletes who more typically are associated with a sport of autumn.

Yes, Harrisburg, get ready to say hello again to American Indoor Foot-

ball and the Harrisburg Stampede!

A true entrepreneurial spirit – defined by Coble as “hard work, integrity, innovation, and the personality and spirit to lead and rebuild” – has guided the now two-time owner of the Stampede to “reload” the team into the PA State Farm Show complex with all the gusto that he and GM Mike Jones and Head Coach Bernie Nowotarski can muster. It’s been a long road (the Stampede has competed in several different leagues since 2009 but hasn’t put on the pads and helmets since 2014) however, Coble’s work history shows that he is more than up to the task.

“I have bought and sold businesses since my early 20’s,” he says with pride. Reeling off a long list of successes in the 2000’s, from a cleaning company specializing in banks and a “good-sized construction company,” to a consulting and marketing firm and a sports memorabilia and custom framing store, Coble possesses an innate knack for entrepreneurship, and moreover a true passion for the

Harrisburg Stampede.

“Our motto for the 2024 season will be #reloaded,” he proclaims. “We are reloading the package and brand that was the Stampede and making it stronger, better, more professional –and greater! – than ever.”

With such a high love for the game and devotion to his team, is Coble predicting a championship season his first year back? Without promising anything, he is quick to respond, “2024 will be the greatest year of Harrisburg Stampede football, both on the field and in our community.”

Finally, what words of enticement does Coble have for those NFL, college, and local high school football fanatics who’ve never experienced indoor football? “The hitting and speed of the game is the first thing that will amaze you,” he describes. “Second, the quality of the players and their personalities. And, lastly, probably one of the fun parts of arena football is that the balls will go in the stands. We don’t go chase after them. If a game ball falls in your lap… congrats, it’s yours to keep.”

The Stampede opens their 2024 season at home on Saturday, April 6, against the Cedar Rapids River Kings. To view the full schedule and order tickets, visit www.hbgstampede.com.

Entrepreneurial Spirit
submitted
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Can You Be a Ninja?

During the age of Samurai, Ninja warriors specialized in unconventional warfare, infiltration, and strategic tactics. In a market where our home inventory is scant, creative thinking and action is essential.

Ninja moves.

A reader reached out to me this week, saying, in effect, “What am I going to do? I save and save and save for a home, yet prices are going up so fast, rates are high, and besides that, there’s nothing on the market. How am I ever going to buy?”

Yeah, our housing market is pretty rough. But today I’ll be your Master Ninja and share a few stealth moves that will help you disarm even the fiercest housing market. Here are a few moves that will help you find a home:

First, have your agent write a letter. Your realtor has access to the size, age, and real estate taxes of every home in our area. I’m talking on and off the market. So, if you’re wanting to buy a home for, say, $400,000 in Lower Dauphin School District, then you, your mortgage lender, and

your real estate agent can figure out approximately how many square feet you can purchase with $400,000. For example, if homes in LDSD are selling for roughly $190 per square foot, if your credit is fine, you are probably safe to look at homes around 19002300 square feet. Your agent can find those homes for you. And if a twocar garage is a must, they can add that into the search. Once you know which homes are your target, you can send letters to the owners, mentioning who you are and why you’re interested in talking with them about their home. I’ve done this several times with clients and we’ve had outstanding results. Think big and move quiet, Ninja. You’ve got this.

Second, find something that’s been overpriced and is sitting on the market. Believe it or not, there are still deals to be had. If a home has been overpriced, even with our shortage of inventory, chances are it’s lingering on the market. If a home has been through a few price drops and is still sitting, the owner and their agent are having some good, solid talks. This might be an opportunity for you to swoop in and benefit from a pricing error. The common mistake buyers make is thinking something is wrong with the home because it’s been on the market for a while. What’s wrong? The original price. The seller’s misstep might be your path to home ownership.

Third, be a detective. You could trade your ninjato (ninja sword) for a deerstalker (two billed hat) and channel Sherlock Holmes. One of my clients found a great home option by watching as homes in her search range went under contract then to settlement. One property, she noticed, was pending for a very long time. She asked me about it, I made some calls, and it’s looking like a viable option. Our hard work paid off. Yours will, too; it always does.

I promise, as you and your agent hone your unconventional and stealthy skills, you’ll infiltrate and defeat the otherwise unconquerable foe.

Eileen Voyles serves the greater Harrisburg area as a Realtor with Homesale Realty, in Hershey, PA and owns @HelloHersheyPA on Instagram, a Pennsylvania Benefit Company which promotes commerce and happy living in Hershey, PA and beyond by highlighting area businesses, resources, housing, and attractions. She can be reached at 717-533-6222 and 717-508-4610 or eileenvoyles@gmail.com.

16 HARRISBURG MAGAZINE MARCH 2024 The Housing Scene with Eileen/Eileen Voyles
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Tax Planning

Tips & Tricks

Iwas talking to an old high school friend, Evan. Unlike the rest of us, Evan is counting down the days until April 15th. He’s an accountant and April 15th marks the beginning of a two-week vacation for him. For the rest of us April 15th is our tax filing deadline, which is often not greeted with the same enthusiasm as my friend Evan’s. Let’s talk about taxes!

Cost Savings:

It often surprises my friends that I have an accountant file my taxes; after all, my stepfather is an accountant, my dad is a retired financial advisor, and I have credentials in tax planning. While there are some places where it makes sense to cut costs in life, I do not cut costs on tax filing. For a few hundred dollars, I keep a tax professional on my team. This came in handy a few years ago when I received a nasty letter from the Department of Revenue. My accountant was able to sort out that there was a small clerical error, but his intervention eliminated my involvement and helped alleviate my stress. Money well spent, in my eyes.

Tax Compliance vs. Tax Planning:

Every year, my buddy Kenny and I debate taxes. He will do everything he can to reduce taxes for the present year. He makes a deductible IRA contribution for himself before April 15th and a spousal deductible IRA

contribution—a $6,500 deductible IRA contribution for 2023 ($7,500 if you’re 50 or older). As a married couple over age 50, they can reduce their income by $15,000. He will call payroll and delay bonus payouts, so income is reported the following year. Jim will even purchase a new 6,000-pound truck so that he can take a Section 179 business deduction. He views his accountant’s job as reducing tax liability, or tax compliance, which is typically achieved through tax deferral. As Kenny looks forward to his retirement, he noted that he has very little tax flexibility in retirement. All his income including pension, social security, and IRAs, will be taxable.

Evan and I complete a tax plan annually, seeking to take advantage of tax opportunities. My wife and I both participate in Roth 401(k)s. Instead of taking an immediate tax deduction for the year, we elect to pay taxes on our contributions. By doing so, this portion of our retirement income grows tax-free. On an annual basis, we review our healthcare options and analyze which healthcare policy makes the most sense for us. Should we be using a high deductible plan with a Health Savings Account that has triple tax advantage opportunities?

Tax Planning for the Future:

As you are completing your taxes, be mindful not to focus on the tree instead of the forest. As you are coordinating your taxes, dust off your financial plan to see if you have a balance

of pre-tax and post-tax retirement assets. Having all your retirement in pre-tax dollars provides very little tax planning flexibility in retirement.

Bryson Roof, CEP, is a financial advisor at Fort Pitt Capital Group in Harrisburg, and has been quoted nationally in various finance publications including CNBC, U.S. News & World Report, and Barron’s.

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Celebrate Independent Bookstore Day

The last Saturday in April is Independent Bookstore Day across the United States. Independent Bookstore Day (Indie Bookstore Day) was established in 2013 to promote, celebrate, and highlight the value of the independent bookstore community. This year, there are over 900 stores participating across the country.

Many of the independent bookstores in Central Pennsylvania participate in this celebration every year. Sponsored by The American Booksellers Association, the tag line for this annual event is “One Day. Fifty States. Over a Thousand Bookstores.”

The American Booksellers Association, a national not-for-profit trade organization, works with booksellers and industry partners to ensure the success and profitability of independently owned book retailers, and to assist in expanding the community of the book.

Every year there are special items that cannot be released until Independent Bookstore Day. Blackwing produces a box of special pencils. There are also pins, stickers and tote bags available for the event.

Pocket Books Shop in Lancaster plans to have special events to celebrate Indie Bookstore Day, which coincide with their second anniversary. Cupboard Maker Books plans a special Scavenger Hunt with fun prizes and interesting one day sales.

April 27th would be a great day to visit Central Pennsylvania’s fascinating local bookstores. Another way to support independent bookstores is by purchasing books through Bookshop. org. According to their website:

“Our mission is simple: To help local, independent bookstores thrive in the age of ecommerce. Certified as a B Corp, Bookshop.org puts this mission and the public good above financial interests, giving over 80% of our profit

margin to independent bookstores. In 2022, B-Labs announced we were ‘best for the world’: in the top 5% of all B-Corps. It is written in our governance documents that we will never sell the company to Amazon or any major U.S. retailer. As a Climate Neutral company, we are committed to operating sustainably.”

Since the company’s founding in 2020, it has raised over thirty million dollars for independent bookstores. Buyers can pick the bookstore they want to support from the Bookshop.org website. Many of the bookstores also have staff recommendations on their Bookshop.org pages.

Bookshop.org and Independent Bookstore Day are two great ways to support bookstores as local businesses. Mark your calendar for April 27th and make plans to stop into an independent bookstore.

Michelle Haring is the owner of Cupboard Maker Books, a 6,500 square foot store in Enola, Pennsylvania, with ample parking on Routes 11/15. The store is across the river from Harrisburg and contains over 120,000 curated, unique, previously loved paperback and hardback titles including Mystery, Romance, Science Fiction, Children’s, History, Art, Religion, and many other genres. The bookstore cats and foster cats from Castaway Critters roam freely and love visitors. Cupboard Maker Books hosts book signings and monthly book clubs and carries thousands of new titles including fiction and nonfiction by local traditionally published and independent authors.

22 HARRISBURG MAGAZINE MARCH 2024 By the Book/Haring
MARCH 2024 HARRISBURG MAGAZINE 23 May 9th through 11th Free Card & Flowers With a purchase of $349 or more.* YOUR ONE STOP LOCAL SHOP Mother’s Day at Mountz
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In Case of Emergency

What do you do when the veterinarian’s office is closed and your pet is in need of urgent care? Your dog or cat is acting out of character, and you wrack your brain trying to figure out what’s going on. Did he eat something strange? Is there something going around at daycare?

No matter what the cause, you watch your pet anxiously for hours, looking for signs of distress. Physical trauma aside, other signs of an emergency can include rapid or strained breathing, seizures, pale gums, difficulty urinating, lethargy, vomiting, diarrhea, passing blood, confusion, immobility, whining and stumbling.

When emergencies happen on weekends or in the middle of the night, it leaves you to make difficult and urgent decisions. We’re lucky to have several 24/7 pet emergency clinics in Central PA. I always call every one of them from closest to farthest, ask what their wait time is and go to the

one with the shortest wait. When you choose a clinic, explain what is happening and tell them you’re on your way so they are prepared to receive your pet. Even though it is a stressful situation for you and your pet, always be patient and courteous with the ER staff.

And now, let’s talk about the elephant in the room. Cost. You can’t walk in the door of a pet ER without spending at least $150 for the visit. And without pet insurance, the bill can be in the thousands. There are good reasons for that cost. You’re receiving care from highly trained staff using specialized medical equipment and procedures in the middle of the night or on the weekend. Sadly, many pet owners just can’t afford it.

Luckily, there are some options that may help. Care Credit is easy to apply for and you get an instant credit decision. Most veterinary and urgent care practices accept Care Credit but ask them before you make an appointment. Be careful of the finance charges. Choose a repayment plan that waives the finance charges if the bill is paid in full by the agreed amount of time. You can apply online at carecredit.com or call 1-800-6770718.

The Pet Fund will assist with non-basic, non-urgent care. They provide funding for cancer treatment, heart disease, chronic diseases, endocrine diseases, eye diseases, and more. You must meet eligibility requirements to be approved. If you think your pet meets the requirements, you must email info@thepetfund.com with your information before filling out the application.

Red Rover provides urgent care assistance for life threatening injury or illness with a current treatment plan and diagnosis from a veterinarian. Assistance is provided to pets with a good prognosis to families residing in the United States who earn under $60,000 yearly. To apply, go to redrover.org/relief/urgent-care-grants/.

Local pet emergency hospitals that are open 24 hours include Shores in Harrisburg, Animal Emergency Center of Hershey, PETS in Lancaster, and Mason-Dixon Animal Emergency Hospital in Shrewsberry.

Don’t wait until there is an emergency to have a plan. You can apply for Care Credit any time or do a little digging and find an insurance policy that works for you.

Kristen Zellner owns Abrams & Weakley General Store for Animals, est. 1986, Central PA’s first health food store for pets. She helps customers keep their pets healthy through better nutrition.

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Incorporating seeds into your diet

Incorporating seeds into your diet can be a nutrient-packed strategy for enhancing overall health. These tiny powerhouses offer a plethora of benefits, from heart health to blood sugar balance. Let’s delve into why seeds deserve a prominent place on your plate.

1. Rich in Healthy Fats and Protein

Seeds are a rich source of plant protein and contain heart-healthy mono- and polyunsaturated fats. These fats, including plant-based omega-3 fatty acids, play a crucial role in maintaining cardiovascular health. Whether you sprinkle chia seeds on your yogurt or snack on almonds, you’re nourishing your body with essential nutrients.

2. Abundant in Fiber

Dietary fiber is essential for digestive health and weight management. Seeds provide a hefty dose of soluble and insoluble fiber, promoting regular bowel movements and helping you feel full. Flaxseeds, pumpkin seeds, and sunflower seeds are excellent choices to boost your fiber intake.

3. Vitamins and Minerals Galore

Seeds are like tiny treasure troves of vitamins and minerals. They contain nutrients such as vitamin E, magnesium, phosphorus, copper, and manganese. These micronutrients contribute to various bodily functions, including bone

health, immune support, and energy production.

4. Antioxidant and Anti-Inflammatory Properties

Many seeds contain plant chemicals with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. These compounds help protect your cells from oxidative damage and reduce inflammation. For instance, flaxseeds are rich in lignans, which have potent antioxidant effects.

5. Blood Sugar Balance

Seeds can help stabilize blood sugar levels. Their combination of healthy fats, protein, and fiber slows down digestion, preventing rapid spikes in blood glucose. Incorporate seeds like chia, flax, and hemp into your meals to support better blood sugar control.

6. Heart Health

Regular consumption of nuts and seeds has been linked to a lower risk of high blood pressure, cardiovascular disease (CVD), and cancer. Clinical trials suggest that nuts may improve cholesterol levels and reduce oxidative stress. So, swap out less nutritious snacks for a handful of nuts or seeds.

7. Weight Management

The fiber and healthy fats in seeds contribute to a feeling of fullness. When you feel satisfied, you’re less likely to overeat. Next time you’re craving a snack, reach for a small palmful of nuts or seeds instead of processed junk food.

8. Versatility and Flavor

Seeds can be sprinkled on salads, blended into smoothies, or added to baked goods. Their versatility allows you to incorporate them into various dishes without compromising taste. Experiment with different seeds—sunflower, pumpkin, sesame, and more—to discover new flavors and textures.

Remember, nuts and seeds are not just snacks; they’re nutritional powerhouses. So, embrace these tiny wonders and reap the health benefits they offer!

Sumathi Suppiah, MD, DABOM, is the medical director of medical weight management for the UPMC Central PA Weight Management Center. She is passionate about helping her patients achieve optimal health through good diet and nutrition, regular exercise, and mental health support. To learn more about medical weight management at UPMC in Central Pa., call 717591-5638 or visit UPMC.com/CentralPaWeightLoss.

28 HARRISBURG MAGAZINE MARCH 2024 Nourishing Bites/Dr. Sumathi Suppiah
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Forging New Paths With …

The Cumberland ValleyRail Trail

The Cumberland Valley Rail Trail (CVRT) is a popular 13.7 mile multi-use trail in Cumberland County that currently runs from Shippensburg to just short of Carlisle. If the hopes of the trail users (cyclists, hikers, cross-country skiers, equestrians), with the support of local environmental and recreational organizations such as the Cumberland Valley Rail Trail Council (CVRTC) and the Central Pennsylvania Conservancy (CPC), are realized, the trail will be extended to Carlisle and someday connected to the 1,200 mile planned September 11th National Memorial Trail.

The CVRT south trailhead is at West Fort Street & North Earl Street in Shippensburg and is easily identifiable by the Conrail boxcar (housing a small railroad museum). After passing through the Shippensburg University campus, the asphalt trail surface is replaced by crushed stone as the

trail heads north through the bucolic farmland following the abandoned railroad bed of the old Cumberland Valley Railroad (which, in turn, followed the general path of the Native Americans and the Scot-Irish settlers who came after them). The railroad began operations in 1837 and, in addition to providing freight and passenger services to the citizens of the Cumberland Valley, played a vital role in moving Union troops and supplies during the Civil War. These facts and other interesting information can be found on the dozen interpretative signs found along the length of the trail. At its height, the railroad ran from Harrisburg to Winchester, Virginia and employed over 1,800 workers. The railroad was bought by the Pennsylvania Railroad in 1919. Conrail (Pennsylvania Railroad’s final successor) eventually abandoned the rail line and donated the rightof-way to the CVRTC in 1995. Since that time CVRTC has worked diligently with other interested parties such as the CPC to create, maintain, and expand the trail.

30 HARRISBURG MAGAZINE MARCH 2024
Story and photos by Samuel J. Rob

The trail currently ends north of Newville at Green Hill Road. The Newville trailhead is the northernmost trailhead on the trail and is located at 23 McFarland Street. There are two additional discrete trail sections on the way to Carlisle. The first is two miles of trail at the village of Greason, with trail parking available at the western end of this trail section on Springview Road. An additional single mile of trail is accessible from Allen Road on the western edge of Carlisle. The trail entrance is on the western edge of

Allen Road, just south of the Newville Road. Parking for this section of trail is located at the base of the large municipal water tower on Allen Road, a half mile south of the trail entrance.

Once completed the trail will be 20 miles point-to-point (40 miles roundtrip) from Shippensburg to Carlisle, two towns with a wealth of history and restaurant and lodging options. For a trail map and further trail details, contact the Cumberland Valley Rail Trail Council via internet

(cvrtc.org), telephone (717-8600444), email (info@cvrtc.org), or mail (CVRTC, P.O. Box 531, Shippensburg, PA 17257). For tourist information relating to Shippensburg, Carlisle, and the Cumberland Valley, contact the Cumberland County Visitors Bureau at visitcumberlandvalley.com; (888) 513-5130; or at the Cumberland Valley Visitors Center (located inside the History on High Shop on 33 West High Street, Carlisle, PA 17013.

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What's Cooking?

IN LOCAL FOOD AND FUN

From breakfast to dinner to a drink – to a show!

Make a day of it with Harrisburg Magazine!

Start things off with a Taste This review of the fresh, original recipe bagels and bagel sandwiches at Bagel Lovers Café. Next, enjoy a Foodies for Thought late lunch or early dinner at Cedars Lebanese Cuisine in Camp Hill. Then, cap things off with live theater at Open Stage of Harrisburg while sipping a creative cocktail from this month’s Bartender’s Choice selectee, Griffin Evans (pictured).

Love local music? This month, After the Beat columnist Amy Simpson profiles the “Keystone Queens of Music,” Gillian Smith and Sarah Sheriff. And movie aficionados, don’t miss Kevyn Knox’s latest Cinematic Ramblings!

Photo by Will Masters

No Corners Cut at Bagel Lovers Café

Ihave fond childhood memories of visiting Bagel Lovers Café. When I was a kid, maybe four or five, one of my favorite snacks was half a bagel, toasted, smeared with cream cheese, and, at my insistence, cut into quarters. My parents often took me with them into Harrisburg, while they organized poetry slams for Arts for Peace & Justice, and a frequent lunchtime treat was being taken to the Bagel Lovers in Strawberry Square. I would get my

favorite (at the time), an egg bagel. Even then, with the palate of a small child, I swore that the fresh-baked bagels there were a cut above even the supermarket bagels we had at home. And with tangy, salty cream cheese melting into the warm bread? Rapturous. I mean, is there any more perfect combination than bagels and cream cheese? I don’t mean to disparage those who prefer other spreads – I see all you butter, jelly, peanut butter, etc., people, and I get

it, but seriously. When someplace gets both just right … It’s like they were made to go together.

Joe and Joanne Berlin first opened Harrisburg staple Bagel Lovers Cafe in 1995. The business has gone through some changes from then to now. It changed owners, and the original bagel recipes were scrapped to save costs. The beloved Strawberry Square location, unfortunately, closed. They were struggling.

36 HARRISBURG MAGAZINE MARCH 2024
Taste This/Bagel Lovers Café
Photos by Kimberly L. Morris

But, Bagel Lovers lovers, rejoice! Because the name is being restored to its former glory. In September of last year, the ownership of Idea Coffee and Lonely Monk Coffee Roasters took over. Currently, they have a Paxton Road location and their stand in the West Shore Farmers Market. They’ve revamped the store and the menu, fixing the improperly high pricing on certain items, brought in Boar’s Head cheeses and meats, started serving high-quality locally roasted coffee

from The Lonely Monk and offering specialty coffee drinks, and… most importantly: they’ve restored the original bagels. They tracked down the original recipes from the Berlins and brought them back. Customers are noticing the difference in quality, and loving it.

So, when we received our office breakfast supplied by Bagel Lovers, it was highly anticipated. Of course, they more than lived up to our expectations.

We were provided a carton of hot Lonely Monk coffee, a selection of fresh bagels and cream cheeses, and four of their breakfast sandwiches. Our favorite cream cheeses, as a group, were the garlic & herb, and the strawberry. The best thing I sampled, personally, was a bit of the French toast bagel with some strawberry cream cheese. Like French toast and strawberries, it was perfectly indulgent. All the bagels were perfectly crafted, and just how bagels should be: chewy on the outside, soft on the inside.

The bacon, egg, and cheese breakfast sandwich – on an everything bagel – was a big favorite in the office, although we enjoyed them all. Several members of the staff raved that they were all packed with fillings and very satisfying. The pastrami, egg, and cheese sandwich, a current (at press time) special, caught the eye of our Managing Editor, Randy Gross. “Pastrami is an option that I don’t see very often,” he commented, “and it was super tender and flavorful.” How would he describe the meal? “Definitely comfort food. But the excellent Lonely Monk coffee will definitely perk you up!”

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LMesmerized by Mezzas and Kvelling over Kababs:

Cedars Lebanese Cuisine

ebanon, a small yet culturally rich country situated along the Mediterranean Sea and bordered by Syria and Israel, boasts a robust food culture. Healthy and hearty, Lebanese cuisine shares many similarities with that of the Eastern Mediterranean countries that surround it, featuring an abundance of whole grains, fruits, vegetables, seafood, poultry, lamb, garlic, olive oil, lemon, chickpeas, and parsley – among, of course, other delicacies.

Our prime spot for Lebanese food in Central PA is Cedars, on Camp Hill’s Market Street, which, as you may have guessed, is this month’s Foodies for Thought feature. Members of our team had eaten there a few times previously, and we already knew we were in for a great experience.

Ubiquitous in Lebanese dining are mezzas, small plates served before a meal. Cedars offers an extensive selection of 27 mouthwatering mezzas, including classics that may sound familiar, such as falafel, hummus, and feta, and some dishes that are lesser known in America. Although they are appetizers, they can be substantial

enough to be a perfect shared lunch or dinner – and Cedars offers deals on combos of 5, 10, or 15 mezzas to get the right amount for your party.

However, since we all were already familiar with – and knew we lovedthe mezza experience at Cedars, for our review we decided to try something new, and order entrées.

First, each entrée is served with a side of either soup or salad. The soup is lentil soup, which is excellent, but our Editor wanted to try their Shrimp and Crab Bisque. Everyone was buzzing about this flavorful soup. “A real star of the menu,” they declared. “I could eat a whole bowl of that.”

The salad in question is Fattoush, and though I love Mediterranean food, it was my first time trying it. It contains veggies that you’d often associate with a simple garden salad: romaine, tomato, onion, green bell pepper, and cucumber, but pita chips, fried in olive oil, take the spotlight. Like croutons, they provide an excellent crispy texture to counterpoint the fresh, crunchy vegetables. And the dressing, in my opinion, really made

it. It imparted a citrusy brightness that elevated the salad from something simple to a perfect segue into the main course.

I ordered the Emjadra, a dish of spiced rice and lentils, topped with fried onions and served with herbed yogurt. I was again impressed by how delicious something that looked so simple on paper could be. The spices were complex, with a hint of floral notes, and the yogurt was the perfect complement. I’ve had other lentil-andrice-based dishes before but had been unaware of a Lebanese version. I wish I knew their recipe – it would easily become a go-to meal for me.

Others ordered the Kibbe Bi Saneeyah, and the Combination Kabab. The Kibbe, a kind of ground beef patty baked with bulgur, onion, and pine nuts, was comparable, we thought, to a Lebanese version of meatloaf, and was served with yogurt and Fattoush. Cedars offers a variety of Kababs – grilled meats – and the Combination Kabab allows you to sample three different kinds of your

40 HARRISBURG MAGAZINE MARCH 2024
Foodies for Thought/Cedars

choice, alongside rice, sautéed vegetables, and yogurt. He picked the Shrimp, Kefta (marinated ground beef), and Tawook (marinated chicken). The favorite was the chicken, which he described as marinated and cooked perfectly.

We saved room for two of the restaurant’s most popular desserts. One, their baklawa, which, unlike the more familiar Greek-style baklava, which has a mixture of nuts, stars just pistachios. It had a deep, almost buttery flavor. And two, the Znood El Sit, a fried filo pastry filled with ushta cream, a custardy mascarpone-like dairy product, soaked in a floral syrup and topped with crushed pistachio. One diner likened the dessert to a fresh cream-filled doughnut.

Cedars is a great place for take-out, but an even better place for dine-in. The service is friendly, and the atmosphere is laid-back and classy, with a healthy touch of Arab charm. During warmer weather, making use of the outdoor seating along cheerful, sunny Market Street is an excellent experience. They’re BYOB, so take a bottle of your favorite wine for dinner or lunch. And, on weekend nights, the restaurant is transformed into a dance floor, as talented, hypnotic belly dancers weave through the aisles to enchanting rhythms.

MARCH 2024 HARRISBURG MAGAZINE 41
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LCurating Both Musical and Mixological Experiences, DJ-Bartender Sets the Mood for Theatrical Fun

ike many of the hardworking baristas and bartenders we profile, Griffin Evans is a busy guy. He bartends (or beertends) at Zeroday, Midtown Cinema, and Open Stage Theatre. He’s musical –in the past, he’s played with bands in Harrisburg and Lancaster, and currently is working on a personal project sampling and arranging electronic music. He works as a DJ –these days, mostly at clubs or parties. And yet, he still manages to find some time to himself. “Quality time with quality people” is his favorite pastime, but he also enjoys reading and watching “an abhorrent amount” of YouTube video essays. Story

How does he manage it? “Well, you can probably tell through setting up the interview, not always well,” Evans admits good-humoredly. “I almost texted you yesterday regretfully, saying sorry for missing the interview, because I thought it was Thursday.” He likes to take things as they come. “I guess the best way to put it in words is literally flying by the seat of my pants,” he elaborates. Still, he manages. What drives him to keep his obligations is his desire to help people, whether those are customers, coworkers, or friends. For example, he explains: “I usually don’t think of it as a job I’m going to – I think of, you know, I need to have enough time, so I’ll come in early, so I can help Patty out with inventory, because she’s running the store, and I don’t want her to have to do that day of. (…) I look at my paychecks for both jobs way later. It’s not something I anticipate, it’s just an additive to the personal gratification I get through meeting my responsibilities to my friends.”

Although he’s been serving beer at his other bar jobs for over a year now, Evans is new to bartending – to working with spirits to make cocktails, specifically. He started as the primary bartender for the well-equipped bar adjoining Open Stage in February and has been learning on-the-job. “The most important aspects in the job have

stayed the same,” Evans reports of his journey into mixology, “despite the capacity changing. That being, pretty much solely customer relationships and how you’re able to facilitate somebody’s experience.” Still, he finds that working for a theatre bar is a bit different from other bars. The pacing is different, for one – there are two big rushes, before shows and during intermission, and it’s quiet in between. Although it can get overwhelming at those times, Evans appreciates the respect and the level of “decorum” that the average theatre patron displays while interacting with bar staff. The place has its fair number of regulars, too, returning for repeat showings of the same production, or monthly live audience podcast recordings (Black Newsbeat with Dr. Kimeka Campbell.)

Evans appreciates the range of shows that Open Stage has on offer. Erotic Fan Fiction Live, a monthly comedy show featuring local artist readings of hilariously bad adult fan fiction, is a favorite. “The first time I saw the show, I worked with Rachel Landon

MARCH 2024 HARRISBURG MAGAZINE 43
by Imogene Gross, imogene@harrisburgmagazine.com Photos by Will Masters
Bartender’s Choice/Open Stage

– she’s Stuart’s [Artistic Director for Open Stage] sister as well – at Midtown Cinema for months at this point, so I’d liked to have thought that I knew Rachel, and then, they’re like ‘come to this show that I run every month’… and you get to see your coworkers in a whole new light, and enjoy yourself at the same time. It is – like I said – the definition of off-thecuff,” Evans raved. Although he himself has never been part of a show, he enjoys live theatre. He shared a high school story of spending time with a super-senior as an underclassman, who told him of his one regret – that he didn’t do drama club. Evans disregarded him at the time, thinking it sounded “lame.” But when he reached his senior year, he saw his friends perform Into the Woods and suddenly regretted not joining drama club, becoming just like his super-senior friend. Still, he enjoys being a part, in some way, of the local theatre scene. “That’s one thing I’ve valued so far about my short stay here at Open Stage,” he says, “is that it has reminded me that there are community theatres that foster that urge to act and to perform, for any-

body in the community.”

Evans enhances patrons’ viewing experiences by providing them perfect pairings to sip while they enjoy the show. The development of showthemed drink specials is collaborative, sometimes with input from a show’s producers, as is the case with The 19th Amendment, a tropical rum drink featured in this month’s drink recipe designed for What the Constitution Means to Me. Open Stage’s drinks prioritize the theatre-going experience. The Fleet Street, for example, according to Evans, is “a bourbon drink, but it’s refreshing. It’s not gonna like, gum up your mouth or anything while you’re watching the show. (…) So that is something that is a consideration in mixing drinks as well, you don’t want to make anything too complicated for somebody whose focus is going to be elsewhere.” On the other hand, it’s nice to have a drink that maintains interest throughout. The Cindy, for example, a gin drink, is liquor-forward at first, but as the berry ice cube in it melts, it softens out over time, changing the experience with each sip so

that “you won’t get too bored with it.” With their range of creative (and standard) options, their flexibility (you can pre-order drinks online) and of course, their excellent stage productions, Open Stage takes pains to ensure the customer experience is fantastic - so what are you waiting for? Book your ticket, order your drink, and say “hi” to new bartender Griffin Evans.

Evans’ Dossier

Words of advice to home mixologists:

Try new things. There are traditions and conventions but the potential for a cocktail is literally limitless.

Inspirations:

The bartenders I’ve worked with - big shout out to Eli. My friends I’ve seen become bartenders and blossom as people - big shout out to Fia.

Favorite spirit straight: Vodka. A good vodka will change your entire understanding of the spirit.

Recommendations of two or three spirits to try:

44 HARRISBURG MAGAZINE MARCH 2024

Hidden Still David E bourbons. A potato vodka like Luksusowa.

Favorite spirits to mix: Various flavors of bitters.

Most commonly ordered drinks at your bar:

Being a bar that accompanies the theater, we sell a lot of cocktails themed toward our current production. The Fleet Street, a combination of blood orange ginger beer and Hidden Still bourbon, is the most popular drink to complement our production of Sweeney Todd.

Philosophy on drinks:

Early on I heard a friend describe various imbibements as social lubricants. While mixology can be a great personal journey, drinking is always better with friends. And being friendly, for many, is easier with a bit of social lubricant. Alcohol may not even be required. Any type of indulgence to carry about and distract oneself between thoughts and conversations can enable a much more comfortable experience. In any setting.

Thoughts about your cocktails:

Simple and good. Being a bar in a theater, it surprises me the quality of ingredients and spirits we stock. And even if our specialty cocktails don’t cut it for you, call nearly anything and I can make it up.

Your day job (if bartending isn’t your day job):

Bartending, beertending, and DJing. Customer service and relations is where my heart stays. Facilitating a comfortable, entertaining, and memorable experience is always the goal.

What days/times do you typically work at the bar:

Evenings and weekends. Day shifts

once weekly.

Recipe for April drink of the month (or favorite drink to mix), laid out in recipe format:

The 19th Amendment

2 oz coconut rum

4 oz cranberry juice

4 oz lemonade

¾ oz lychee puree

Lemon wedge

NOMINATE A BARTENDER OR BARISTA!

harrisburgmagazine.com/submissions

MARCH 2024 HARRISBURG MAGAZINE 45

Double the Trouble, Twice the Fun

Gillian Smith and Sarah Sheriff, known as the Keystone Queens of Music, have firmly established themselves as a formidable team in the country music scene nationwide. Their partnership brings a refreshing blend of talent, passion, and versatility that sets them apart from the crowd. Gillian’s classical vocal training from a young age and her natural-born ability infuses her performances with a level of sophistication and old soul that is truly captivating. It’s no wonder she appeared and sang on the popular talent show The Voice. Her nomination for Best Song of the Year with the emotionally charged track “Lie to You,” written and produced by Sam Grow, showcases Smith’s powerful vocal ability. Her recent nominations for Best Female Vocalist and Best Female Country Artist by CPMHOF speak volumes about her talent being recognized and celebrated within the music industry.

Drawing inspiration from country giants like Carrie Underwood, Miranda Lambert, and Dolly Parton, Gillian’s musical influences are diverse, contributing to the partnership’s rich and distinctive country sound. Smith continues

to push boundaries and explore new horizons, writing and recording new songs with her team in Nashville. What an exciting chapter in her musical journey as a young vocalist and upcoming songwriter!

Sarah Sheriff, also known as “The Sheriff,” brings a wealth of experience. A skilled guitarist for nearly three decades, she keeps a sparkly telecaster in hand (nails to match). Sarah’s musical influences are Vince Gill and Billy Gibbons (ZZ Top). Her musical skill, coupled with her role as lead guitarist and musical director, adds a layer of depth and complexity to their performances. Together they seamlessly blend country twang, southern rock anthems, and heartfelt praise and worship melodies, creating a musical experience that resonates with audiences from intimate honky-tonks to grand festival stages.

These two partners in rhythm have not only opened for renowned artists like Brooks & Dunn, Morgan Wade, Dustin Lynch, and Blake Shelton, but have also graced the stages of prestigious events such as the Barefoot Country

46 HARRISBURG MAGAZINE MARCH 2024

After the Beat/Amy Simpson

Music Festival, The Carolina Country Music Fest, and Rams Head, to name a few. Their ability to effortlessly transition between performing together to collaborating with larger groups deepens their adaptability and range as artists. Their dedication to connecting with fans and expanding their reach is evident in their tireless efforts to tour radio stations and promote their latest single, “Looks Like.”

Looking ahead to the future, Gillian Smith and Sarah Sheriff are undoubtedly on a trajectory toward even greater success and recognition in the country music landscape. With their commitment to their craft and their passion for creating music that resonates with audiences, these two talented artists are destined to shine brightly as the country gems of the Midstate and beyond. Keep your eye on these two as they leave a legendary mark on the world of country rock music.

As Dolly Parton always says, “Don’t be a lady, be a legend.”

Amy Simpson is a highly experienced and versatile music professional with a passion for diverse musical styles. With a background in soul/R&B, Jazz, rock, hip-hop, top 40/covers, and reggae styles, she has performed in various settings, from clubs to upscale hotels and casinos, and has had the opportunity to share the stage with renowned artists such as Charmaine Neville, Tower Of Power, Average White Band, and Sean Paul. She currently is a member of The Groove Rebels band.

MARCH 2024 HARRISBURG MAGAZINE 47
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I‘Sounding’ Off About Silent Cinema

have a friend who jokingly claims that the worst thing to ever happen to cinema was the advent of sound. Only thing is, he’s not joking. This is his belief. Sound ruined cinema. The talkies took down the wonder of the motion pictures.

Now I wouldn’t go quite as far as my silent cinema obsessed friend, but I will say that the era of silent cinema was one hell of a cinematic era. Sure, there was a basic “what the hell are we doing” attitude at the beginning, and though there was some fun and quite interesting experimentation going on in those early days, it wouldn’t be until the late teens and especially the early twenties that true cinema was born. This final decade before sound “ruined” cinema was one of the finest decades in film history.

My personal favorite decade is the 1950’s, but that’s another story for another day – and another column. Today I want to discuss the 1920’s. The Silent Era. This was a time of great discovery in cinematic techniques. This was the decade that brought us German Expressionism and some of the greatest American & European films ever made.

The decade started out with Robert Wiene’s The Cabinet of Dr. Caligari – the first formidable entry in what would be called German Expressionist Cinema. The dark tale of murder and magic. The over-sized and abstract set designs. The use of shadows, some of which were painted directly onto the sets. This was German Expressionism.

These films would lead directly into the film noir that established itself in Hollywood in the 1930’s and 1940’s.

Later in the decade would come films like Nosferatu (1922) & Sunrise (1927 – my fave silent film) – both by F.W. Murnau and both masterpieces. Sunrise would go beyond mere expressionism though, into a whole other world. A world that would lead to the melodramas of France & Hollywood.

And speaking of Hollywood, in 1921 came The Kid, the first feature film from Charlie Chaplin, who at the time was probably the most famous person on Earth. The Kid went far beyond Chaplin’s funny short films and with it he gave us a movie that could make you laugh and cry in the same freaking scene! With The Gold Rush in 1925, Chaplin would go on to become one of the greatest filmmakers of all-time. I think he thought the same way my aforementioned friend does, for he kept making silent films well after the talkies came around, with City Lights in 1931 and Modern Times in 1936.

There are so many great films in the silent era and so little space to write about them, so here’s a list of films you should seek out and watch (along with the ones already mentioned): Greed (1924), Battleship Potemkin (1925), The General (1926), lis (1927), The Passion of Joan of Arc (1928), The Crowd (1928), Box (1929) … and, well, about another 200+ that I would call great cinema!

Yeah, there has been some great cine ma after the advent of sound (don’t tell my friend that though), but the artistry of pre-sound cinema is purely amazing and worth your time. Check some out. That’s it gang! See ya at the movies!

Kevyn Knox is a Writer, Artist, Pop Photographer, Film & TV Historian, Pez Collector, and Pop Culturist. He has written film reviews for FilmSpeak, Central PA Voice, and The Burg. His reviews & other ramblings can be found on his blog, www.allthingskevyn.com.

(717) 533-7159

MARCH 2024 HARRISBURG MAGAZINE 49
Ramblings/Kevyn Knox
Cinematic
• www.feniccis.com
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