Harrisburg Magazine February 2022 by benchmarkmediallc

CONTENTS

b enchmark Media, LLC.

F E B R U A R Y 2 02 2

36 February 2022 • Volume 28 No. 2

PRESIDENT/CEO Darwin Oordt doordt@benchmarkmediallc.com DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS Christina Heintzelman cheintzelman@benchmarkmediallc.com Darcy Oordt darcy@benchmarkmediallc.com

INSIDE

ON THE COVER

PHOTO BY LARRY “LENZZ” WASHINGTON

SIMPLY THE BEST 2022 BUSINESSES TO NOMINATE

INTROSPECTION

THE CERCUS CARTOON

BARTENDER’S OR BARISTA’S CHOICE

BY THE BOOK

NOURISHING BITES

THE FINANCE HOUND

THEATRE THOUGHTS

TAILBOARD TALK

FOR THE LOVE OF PETS

CINEMATIC RAMBLINGS

POSTCARDS FROM…

POEM

#HBGMAG INFLUENCER

SHORT STORY

CENTRAL PA'S WINTER WONDERLAND

LIVING LEGENDS AND HISTORIC HEROES

SHAKESPEARE THEATRE ASSOCIATION CONFERENCE

ARTFUL INSPIRATIONS: PAINTER

A VALENTINE’S CARD 50 YEARS IN THE MAKING

NON-TRADITIONAL ROMANCES FOR VALENTINE’S DAY VIEWING

EAT, TRAVEL, AND LOVE WITH ONCE UPON A PESTO

A SWEAT TREAT FEATURE OF FAT TUESDAY

LOCAL EATS FOR VALENTINE'S DAY

EDITOR Randy Gross rgross@harrisburgmagazine.com GRAPHIC DESIGNER Laura Reich lreich@benchmarkmediallc.com ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE Jo Ann Shover jshover@harrisburgmagazine.com DISTRIBUTION MANAGER Richard Eppinger reppinger@harrisburgmagazine.com WRITING & PHOTOGRAPHY INTERN Markeshia Wolfe CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Dimitri John Diekewicz Christina Heintzelman Paul Hood Iya Isoke Kevyn Knox Jessica Paholsky Bill Roddey Dana Larkin Sauers CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS Rick Snizik Keith Spangler Larry “Lenzz” Washington CONTRIBUTING ILLUSTRATORS Adrian Sauers

Visit us online at: HarrisburgMagazine.com 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 ©2022, Harrisburg Magazine, Inc. Printed by Freeport Press, Freeport, Ohio.

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HARRISBURG MAGAZINE FEBRUARY 2022 3

SIMPLY THE BEST 2022

BUSINESSES TO NOMINATE AUTOMOTIVE

https://bit.ly/STBauto AutoFirst LLC AUTO DEALER (PREOWNED/USED) 717-591-2777 CR Automotive Detailing AUTO DETAILER https://crautomotivedetailing.com Lawrence Chevrolet Inc AUTO DEALER (NEW DOMESTIC) www.LawrenceChevy.com L B Smith Ford Lincoln AUTO DEALER (NEW DOMESTIC) www.lbsmithford.com

BEAUTY & FITNESS

https://bit.ly/STBbeauty Camp Hill Barber BARBER SHOP www.camphillbarber.com Farrell Plastic Surgery & Laser Center AESTHETIC PHYSICIAN OFFICE www.farrellmd.com

Glossner and McElwee Comprehensive Dental Care GENERAL DENTIST - WEST SHORE https://gmdentalcare.net Kearns and Ashby, DDS, PC SPECIALTY DENTIST www.kidsdentaloffice.com Rina Singh DDS COSMETIC DENTIST www.westshoresmiles.com Wood & Myers Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery ORAL & MAXILLOFACIAL CLINIC www.woodandmyers.com

FINANCIAL

https://bit.ly/STBfinancial Charney Investment Group INVESTMENT COMPANY www.charneyig.com Members 1st Federal Credit Union CREDIT UNION www.members1st.org

FOOD & DRINK

https://bit.ly/STBfood

Farrell Plastic Surgery & Laser Center LASER/SKIN CARE www.farrellmd.com

Desserts Etc. DESSERTS www.dessertsetc.com

Farrell Plastic Surgery & Laser Center PLASTIC SURGEON www.farrellmd.com

Nothing Sweeter Bakery BAKERY www.Nothing-Sweeter.business.Site

watersEDGE LASER/SKIN CARE www.watersedgepa.com

Redd’s Smokehouse BBQ BARBECUE https://reddssmokehousebbq.com

BUSINESS

Tattered Flag Brewery & Still Works LOCAL BREWERY / DISTILLERY www.tatteredflagbsw.com

https://bit.ly/STBbusiness PROFESSIONAL NOTARY SERVICES SPECIALTY SERVICE 717-510-2269

HEALTH & WELLNESS

https://bit.ly/STBhealth

Memorial Eye Institute OPHTHALMOLOGIST OR OPTOMETRIST CLINIC www.memorialeye.com

HOME BUILDING

https://bit.ly/STBbuilding Abel & Son Roofing & Siding ROOFING COMPANY www.abelandson.com Greenawalt Roofing Company ROOFING COMPANY www.greenawaltroofing.com Renewal by Andersen DOOR & WINDOW COMPANY www.renewalbyandersen.com R.F. Fager Co. BUILDING SUPPLIES www.rffager.com

HOME MAINTENANCE

https://bit.ly/STBmaintenance Handyside Plumbing, HVAC & Electrical HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING COMPANY https://www.handysideinc.com Home-Time Renovation KITCHEN &/OR BATH REMODELING CO. https://www.hometimerenovation.com Thermotech HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING COMPANY www.thermotechhbg.com Zimmerman Plumbing, Heating, & Air Conditioning HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING COMPANY www.ezimmerman.com

LEGAL

HARRISBURG AREA LIFE

https://bit.ly/STBlegal

Tide Cleaners DRY CLEANERS https://tidecleaners.com

Abrams & Weakley PET SUPPLY STORE www.abramsandweakley.com

https://bit.ly/STBlegal

DENTAL

Good Hope Animal Hospital VETERINARIAN/ANIMAL HOSPITAL https://goodhopeanimalhospital.com

https://bit.ly/STBdental

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https://bit.ly/STBlife

LOCAL INTEREST

RECREATION & LEISURE

https://bit.ly/STBrecreation

RESTAURANTS

https://bit.ly/STBrestaurants

Bangkok Wok ASIAN https://bangkokwok.takeout7.com/Home Harvest Seasonal Grill & Wine Bar OVERALL DINING (EAST SHORE / SUBURBAN) https://harvestseasonal.com Hong Kong Ruby ASIAN www.hongkongruby.com

SHOPPING

https://bit.ly/STBshopping

The Dancer's Pointe LOCAL STORE www.thedancerspointepa.com

WEDDING & EVENTS

https://bit.ly/STBwedding D'luxe Lounge & Venue EVENT VENUE 717-350-0801 South Mountain Entertainment DJ/EVENT ENTERTAINMENT www.southmountainentertainment.com

Artworks Custom Picture Framing FRAMERS https://www.artworksgalleries.com

DON'T FORGET TO REGISTER YOUR BUSINESS FOR SIMPLY THE BEST

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Nominations End February 22. Only the Top 5 Nominees will compete for Simply the Best! Voting Begins April 15. https://harrisburgmagazine.com/simply-the-best-2022/

At a Bruce Springsteen concert, all his songs start the same...ONE, TWO, THREE, FOUR! Does head cheese make you smarter or just give you a headache? “iPhone Home.” The sequel to “E.T.” I believe in hope and change. When I buy something I always hope for change. Harrisburg at twilight- where whimsy replaces algorithms and everyone's as big as IMAX 3D and small minded as a maggot dreaming of becoming a f ly. Saw a sign for a GIANT BOOK SALE at a bookstore. Went to see what they had and was disappointed. All the books were the regular size. Bummer, dude.

HARRISBURG MAGAZINE FEBRUARY 2022 5

Introspection

PHOTO BY KEITH SPANGLER

I'll love you, dear, I'll love you till China and Africa meet and the river jumps over the mountain and the salmon sing in the street. — W. H. Auden

ebruary is a month for many things. Wintry weather, for starters, though, by the time you read this, perhaps the groundhog has gifted you with the promise of an early spring. It’s also Black History Month and American Heart Month, and don’t forget Super Bowl LVI. But nothing sums up the year’s shortest month like the word love. Whether you’re falling into it, or striving to remain in its warm grasp, there are no shortages of “be mine” sentiments this time of year. While you may not be treated to the Susquehanna jumping over Peters Mountain, or a few salmon (strike that, say smallmouth bass instead) striking up a chorus along Restaurant Row, this issue of Harrisburg Magazine will nevertheless be overflowing with love. First, there’s the love story of Bill and Rosie Trousdale, teenage sweethearts who were separated for more than 50 years before reigniting the spark that first brought them together in the fall of 1969. The retired Susquehanna Township couple recounts their timeless romance in words and photos. Our “Influencer” of the month, entrepreneur Josh Kesler, who has almost single-handedly brought stability to Harrisburg’s iconic Broad Street Market, speaks of his love for Midtown, where his combination restaurant/brewery/studio space, The Millworks, has helped to bring together people from all walks 6 HARRISBURG MAGAZINE FEBRUARY 2022

of life to enjoy great food and art. And Christina Heintzelman profiles another “lover” of the city, painter, photographer, film producer and writer Michelle Green, co-creator (with Dr. Dale Dangleben) of Nyeusi Gallery, Nyeusi Media, Nyeusi Print Shop, and 913 Productions. The patrons at Moe’s Bar & Grill in Mechanicsburg are so enamored with the long-time eatery’s bartending team that we felt obligated to profile Mary Conley and Dan Sanchez for our “Bartender’s Choice” feature. Gamut Theatre’s love for Shakespeare “attracted” the 2022 International Shakespeare Theatre Association Conference to the capital city, and that lofty accomplishment – highlighted by five consecutive days of Classic Fests plays – is chronicled by Paul Hood. And intern Markie Wolfe pens a Black History Month homage to some of the “Living Legends and Historic Heroes” she admires the most. This month’s commissioned poem, “Massage Therapy,” by twotime Harrisburg Poet Laureate Iya Isoke, reminds us all to take some time out for some self-love and pampering; contributing writer Jessica Paholsky tells us how to make Valentine’s memories with some delectable recipes from her Once Upon a Pesto site; and, speaking of food, who wouldn’t like reading about some of the sweet Fastnachts being fried locally in the traditional

Pennsylvania Dutch way (our only regret is that you can’t actually “taste” writer Dimitri John Diekewicz’s photos). For some non-traditional Valentine’s reading – and viewing - check out the list of non-traditional “romantic” films compiled by our panel of local film buffs. Adding to this month’s less-than-traditional vibe is one of our newest features, The Cercus, artist Brad Maurer’s cartoonish take on the insect world. And fiction fans won’t be disappointed either, with February’s featured short story, “The Note,” coming from Hanover’s Dana Larkin Sauers (with an illustration by her son, Adrian Sauers). Don’t forget our columns, including the debut of author Steven G. Williams’ Postcards From …, which this month focuses on “value travel.” Also this month: film & TV historian Kevyn Knox gives us his 2021 Top 10 Film List in Cinematic Ramblings. Andrea Reed provides “the scoop on sodium’ in Nourishing Bites; Stefan Hawkins’ By the Book lists informative – and necessary - reads for Black History Month; in The Finance Hound, Bryson Roof suggests the best way to your partner’s heart is through financial conversations; Barbara Trainin Blank previews two musicals, one classic, one original, in Theatre Thoughts; HACC’s Robert Stakem devotes his Tailboard Talk to American Heart Month life-saving tips; and Kristen Zellner outlines ways for maintaining your dog or cat’s dental health in For the Love of Pets. As always, look for pithy Off the Cuff one-liners by humorist Bill Roddey throughout the magazine! Keep loving one another! R.G.

The Artist reserves all reproduction rights, including the right to claim statutory copyright, in the above published Work. The Work may not be photographed, sketched, painted, or reproduced in any manner whatsoever without the express, written consent of the Artist.

HARRISBURG MAGAZINE FEBRUARY 2022 7

Bartender’s or Barista’s Choice

Bartending team’s chemistry makes Moe’s feel like a “second home” Story By Randy Gross

rgross@harrisburgmagazine.com

Photos By Rick Snizik

Pink Lady

Bartender Mary Conley – Moe’s Bar & Grill 8 HARRISBURG MAGAZINE FEBRUARY 2022

here are many definitions for the word “base.” It can mean the “lowest part or edge of something,” as in the base of a tree. It can also connote a central structure on which a family or community depends – perhaps a place of warmth and security, as in a home base. The word is even employed scientifically, in the fields of biology and chemistry. Since 1945, when a former gas station essentially morphed into nothing more than a bar and a front door, Moe’s Bar & Grill has been a “base” as defined in all those ways, and more: as a foundation on which to grow (which it has over the years, adding both a back expansion and a rear deck); as a “second home” kind of place for regulars to gather for cold brews and some bolis, burgers, or award-winning hot wings (Moe’s has been recognized as one of the first restaurants in Central PA to introduce authentic Buffalo wings); and, last but not least, a place with good chemistry, the kind you feel when you sit down at the bar and are greeted immediately by one of the experienced, longtenured Moe’s bartenders. Good chemistry, by anyone’s estimate, is what attracts most people to a good after work (or after hours) hang out, and the chemistry practiced by Moe’s bartending “team members” Mary Conley and Dan Sanchez isn’t just of the mixology variety. Sure, they are adept at mixing up everything from a Rum and Coke to a Moscow Mule, but it’s the way they’ve been “mixing” with the Moe’s patrons Conley for 8 years, Sanchez for over 10 years – that keeps everyone coming back to owners Tootie and George Castle’s unpretentious Mechanicsburg pub. When someone has as the “base” of their personality – as both Conley and Sanchez do – a “down to earth” quality, it’s easy to see how both mixing and mixing drinks come easy for the duo, who actually started in the business together at the now-defunct Applebee’s on the Carlisle Pike. Conley, who tended bar only in the evenings for years so she could be home with her three kids during the day, only recently got her nursing license. Even so, she loves her “family” at Moe’s so much that she still is spending more time bartending than nursing. And Sanchez, holder of an

MBA, fell into full-time bartending after working (and losing) a “corporate America” job of 15 years, and feels fortunate to be slinging drinks in such a “comfortable and understanding” environment. “It’s fun … I’ve met a lot of people,” says Sanchez. “It [bartending] allows you to make money while living your own lifestyle. You work certain nights, and you’re able to adapt and do other things. If you have a good place to work, everyone accommodates each other’s schedule and lifestyle.” For Sanchez, part of that accommodation has come in the form of the ability to start his own charity, Tee Off Against Corporation (www.teeoffagainst.org). He explains, “I ran for Man of the Year for the Leukemia/Lymphoma Society in 2013, and it was an 8-week contest. You had to have a home base, and because I worked here, the owners said I could make Moe’s my home headquarters to raise money. And we did an amazing job raising money. The next year, everyone was asking if I would continue the event, so that’s what made me start the non-profit, so I could continue what I started. We have an annual St. Patrick’s Day breakfast at Moe’s, and it’s the only time we serve breakfast, from 8 till 11 am. And then we do our annual golf tournament the first Saturday in June, “Tee-Off Against Cancer,” and then I do an annual golf tournament for Pennsylvania Wounded Warriors the fourth Saturday in July. Moe’s has really been a good stage for allowing me to run this non-profit.” 7

Orange Crush

Mary Conley’s Dossier Words of advice to home mixologists: Try new things and don’t be afraid to experiment. You could create something amazing. Inspirations: Seeing our customers have a good time and enjoy themselves with friends and family. We always try to make everyone’s experience enjoyable. Favorite spirit straight: I normally steer clear of straight spirits, but if I had to choose it probably would be some sort of flavored whiskey. Recommendations of a spirit to try: Bulleit Bourbon Whiskey. Favorite spirits to mix: I would say my go-to spirit is either Vodka or Rum. Most commonly ordered drinks at your bar: Besides the more common domestic beers and cocktails like Captain and Coke, I would have to say Moscow Mules have become popular.

Mary Conley's drink for February Pink Lady 4 ounces white wine 2 ounces lemonade 1 ounce cranberry juice Fresh squeeze of lemon Lemon garnish Serve over ice.

What days/times do you typically work at the bar: Monday night, Tuesday day, Thursday night, every other Friday night, every other Sunday. 7 Editor’s note: because coffee has become as – if not more - popular than alcoholic beverages, we have also begun honoring the men and women who work their magic at the region’s coffee shops. Therefore, nominations are being accepted for both worthy bartenders and baristas.

Philosophy on drinks: Make them fun, tasty, and enjoyable. Thoughts about your cocktails: I hope the customer enjoys the drink and it helps create a positive experience.

NOMINATE A BARTENDER OR BARISTA! harrisburgmagazine.com/submissions

Your day job: Mom of three, and I have recently started to help manage Moe’s.

Bartender Dan Sanchez – Moe’s Bar & Grill HARRISBURG MAGAZINE FEBRUARY 2022 9

By The Book/Stefan Hawkins

Black History is … Beautiful. Bold. Revolutionary. Love. Proud.

lack History is American History. Throughout the month of February, a few good people take the time to pick up a variety of books and read different articles while watching various shows about historical Black figures that we never heard about in school. This is a month to educate oneself on the many Black people that gave so much for their people and this society to ensure that justice was just, opportunities were equal, and love could be love for everyone. I took the opportunity for this edition of By the Book to dive into a profoundly great read that every Black man growing up in modern day America can relate to, and understand where the author was coming from and how it shaped his views on the world we live in. Tyler Merritt’s book “I Take My Coffee Black” is something I would recommend people that aren’t of Black descent also look into purchasing. I can say it’s as insightful as Emmanuel Acho’s “Uncomfortable Conversations with A Black Man" in as far as letting you see what Black men deal with just for being big, black, and a man. As a Black man myself who has read both books, I can agree that it can be hard to just exist in our black skin, and not have to worry about being profiled, prejudged, criminalized, and cast off. The way Merritt navigates you through his life from childhood to the time he first went viral for his YouTube video Before You Call the Cops, the humor, the honesty, and his awareness of himself is refreshing because I understand instantly from growing up in a rough neighborhood, and then trying to make friends with white kids whose parents were racist. It was all very relatable, and I believe a lot of people can take a few good things from his book. As we settle into the Pennsylvania wintery month of February and begin celebrating the abundance of contributions given by Black people to our nation and the world altogether for Black History Month, you, like me, begin to realize that there are so many Black people that aren’t covered in literature and in the early childhood schooling system. As you get older, you also recognize that you’ve asked yourself every

February “how didn’t I know this person,” or “hear about how much of this particular event wasn’t taught to us,” and “who do I blame” for the lack of information on the part of Black American experiences throughout the history of this country? Here are a few books that you can read in the month of February that I believe are worth it for anyone to take a look at: • “Rooted in the Earth: Reclaiming the African American Environmental Heritage” by Dianne D. Glave • “And We Rise: The Civil Rights Movement in Poems” by Erica Martin • “Black AF History: The Un-Whitewashed Story of America” by Michael Harriot • “A House Built by Slaves: African American Visitors to the Lincoln White House” by Jonathan W. White • “Insurrection: Rebellion, Civil Rights, and the Paradoxical State of Black Citizenship” by Hawa Allan • “Unseen: Unpublished Black History from the New York Times Photo Archives” by Dana Canedy, Darcy Eveleigh, Damien Cave, and Rachel L. Swarns • “Black History Matters: The Story of Black History from African Kingdoms to Black Lives Matter” by Robin Walker There are so many more books that speak to the Black experience in this nation - and around the world - that I’d recommend you stop by Good Brotha’s Book Cafe to get a bigger and better list. For February and the rest of the year until next February, read one new book about a historical trailblazing Black person that you never knew about. 7 Stefan Hawkins was born and raised in Harrisburg. He opened Good Brotha's Book Cafe in January 2021 and has been leading a Good Brothas Can't Read Book Club since last summer.

Nourishing Bites/Andrea Reed

February is American Heart Month

he terms salt and sodium are often used interchangeably, but they are technically not the same. Sodium is a mineral that functions as an electrolyte to help maintain the body’s balance of fluid and blood volume. Sodium is a part of salt. So, you might be wondering why we see the recommendations to limit our consumption of sodium if our body needs sodium to function correctly. The Dietary Guidelines for Americans recommend the consumption of 2,300 mg or less of sodium per day. However, Americans eat on average 1,100 mg more sodium than what is recommended each day. When we eat too much sodium, it can have detrimental effects on our health. One of the main uses of sodium in the body is to help maintain the proper balance of water. A high sodium diet causes the body to retain more water, which puts additional stress on our blood vessels and heart. This is especially relevant for individuals who already have high blood pressure, known as hypertension. Eating less sodium can reduce the 10 HARRISBURG MAGAZINE FEBRUARY 2022

risk of high blood pressure or help manage your existing hypertension. Preventing or managing high blood pressure is important to making sure we limit our risk of heart attack or stroke. You might be thinking, “but I don’t use salt on my food.” The least amount of dietary sodium comes from the saltshaker on the table. Dietary sodium primarily comes from canned and packaged foods because it helps preserve foods. Foods away from home, such as fast food or restaurants, also contain high levels of sodium due to the use of salt in cooking as a flavor enhancer. We cannot control the amount of sodium in these foods, but we can limit them in our diet. There are a few simple strategies to reduce our dietary sodium. When possible, choose fresh fruits and vegetables. Fresh meat may contain less sodium than cured or deli-style meats, but even fresh meats may have sodium added to help make the meat last longer. When choosing packaged, canned, or frozen foods, check the Nutrition Facts label to compare foods. A food with 5% or less

sodium is considered “low” in sodium, whereas a food with 20% or more is high sodium. Labels may have helpful statements such as “sodium free,” “reduced sodium,” or “no salt added.” Compare the amount of sodium in different products and choose the products with the least amount of sodium in each serving, such as low sodium broth, reduced sodium cheese, or unsalted peanuts. During cooking, use sodium-free seasonings, spices, and natural flavors such as garlic or lemon to enhance flavor. Although limiting meals away from home can really help us reduce our sodium intake, dining out can still be enjoyable on occasion. Requesting nutrition information before ordering can help with selecting a lower sodium meal. Simple requests to the chef may include asking for no salt to be added to our meals or asking for an alternative side such as a salad or fruit. Sometimes there are no substitutes for our favorite salty treats. By sharing our favorites, we can still enjoy a few bites while limiting our overall sodium intake.

Being aware of dietary sodium sources is an important part of managing sodium intake. If you need help navigating food choices, ask to speak to the registered dietitian at your grocery store or ask your doctor for a referral. Decreasing your sodium intake may help prevent or reduce your risk of hypertension, but remember, a well-balanced diet can do more for your health than reducing sodium intake alone. 7 Andrea Reed, MPS, RDN, LDN, is a freelance dietitian with a background in agricultural sciences. Growing up in the outdoors of Pennsylvania inspired her to include agricultural education in her nutrition counseling and is the focus of her writing.

The Finance Hound/Bryson Roof

Love & Money: Having Financial Conversations with Your Partner mages of diamond pendants, flowers, and chocolate monopolize television ads this time of year. Valentine’s Day is rapidly approaching. Here’s a last-minute idea to spice up this year’s Valentine’s Day.

Romantic Dinner for Two: Whether you are planning an evening out on the town or a romantic home-cooked meal, what’s more romantic than discussing your future together? Few things are as personal and intimate as your future plans, so what better time to dream big? Outline your life goals and ambitions. Share your long-term thoughts. Keep finances out of the conversation, focus on the big picture. Create an ideal life timeline. When do you want to have kids and grandchildren? When do you want to retire? What are some surprising bucket list items? Do you plan to remodel your home, relocate to a warmer climate, and purchase a vacation home? As the conversation flows, fantasize about winning the lottery and what you would do together if money wasn’t a barrier. While it may not be realistic, you may be surprised to hear what your significant other has in mind. While I will always have beagles in my life, my better half was surprised to find out that I will eventually want a few Treeing Walkers as part of my pack. Don’t Let Progress Go to Waste: Congratulations, you’ve just completed the first step of the financial planning process: outlining your future goals. You can use your romantic Valentine’s Day dinner conversation as the foundation of your financial plan. Now you can put some numbers behind the goals. You want to retire early; the next step is developing a savings and investment strategy to meet that objective. You want to add an additional bathroom to the house; it’s time to develop a budget for the project and start a savings account to meet your objective.

Institute reported that roughly 70% of Americans say their financial plan is to “keep working.” To overcome the challenge of starting a financial plan, make the first step fun by making a game out of it. Developing your plan doesn’t have to be an overwhelming process. If you can verbally outline your goals with your significant other, then you can hire an independent advisor to generate a detailed roadmap to those goals. Your financial plan is simply ironing out the most efficient way to get to your destination. At a Minimum: If starting a financial plan is overwhelming to you, at a minimum, develop a budget so that you can pay off outstanding debt, develop an emergency savings account and prioritize a monthly savings goal. A recent study from Gallup found that only one in three American’s have a written financial budget. There are plenty of online resources and apps to help with budgeting, such as Mint and Every Dollar. Couples Endeavor: Whether you are updating an existing financial plan, creating your first financial plan, or simply addressing a budget for the first time as a couple, view this as a relationship bonding experience, not just another task to complete. Go in with an open mind, learn about your significant other and enjoy the experience. Planning can be fun. Dream big! 7 Bryson J. Roof, CFP®, 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.

The Most Challenging Step: The hardest part of any endeavor is taking the first step. Maybe that’s why only a quarter of Americans have a long-term financial plan, per a recent study completed by the Charles Schwab 2019 Modern Wealth Index. Shockingly, the Employee Benefit Research HARRISBURG MAGAZINE FEBRUARY 2022 11

Theatre Thoughts/Barbara Trainin Blank

One classic, one original musical coming to Central PA

n a winter already full of inclement weather and seemingly endless COVID cases, there’s joy to be had in a big-hearted musical. That show is “Singin’ in the Rain,” based on the 1952 Gene KellyStanley Donen hit movie musical, whose unforgettable songs include “Good Morning,” “Make ’em Laugh,” and of course, the title song, accompanied by one of the most-memorable dance sequences on film. Like the film, the musical “Singin’ in the Rain” brings together a starlet and leading man who fall genuinely in love, versus the same leading man, a silent-film star who is a hot item with his co-star on screen he’s not exactly enamored of. It’s also about the demise of the silents, defeated by the talkies. “Singin’ in the Rain” runs February 25-April 16 at Dutch Apple Dinner Theatre, 510 Centerville Road, Lancaster. For tickets call the box office, 717.898.1900. On the other hand, Open Stage, a theater company downtown, is presenting an original, contemporary musical. “The Mad Ones,” by Kait Kerrigan and Bree Lowdermilk, will run` February 12-March 12 on the theater’s Capital BlueCross Main Stage. “Mad to live, mad to talk, mad to be saved.” The musical takes its name from a passage in Jack Kerouac’s “On the Road.” Main character Samantha Brown (played by Carly Lafferty) is balanced on the edge of the future, car keys in hand. As she sits in the driver’s seat, she faces a tough choice: will she follow in her mother’s footsteps, or take the dare of her impetuous best friend and chart a new path? It’s a simple matter of left or right: a fork in the road in a car driven by the ghosts of her past. The contemporary musical is a journey of loss, freedom, and what it means to live life for the fullest and be your own person. “The show explores true love and friendship, ways to process grief and loss, and how to remember while also moving forward. It’s just an absolutely beautiful piece,” said the actor, who spends part of her time on stage in a car, caught between the present and memories. Local all-stars Maggie Haynes, Nik Olson, and Rachel Landon complete the cast, with direction by Stuart Landon. “The Mad Ones” opened off-Broadway in November 2017, based on an idea by Zach Altman and Lowdermilk and amassing millions of

YouTube views. Its well-known songs are “Run Away with Me,” “Say the Word,” and “Freedom.” The Capital BlueCross Main Stage is located at 25 North Court Street in downtown Harrisburg. For tickets, visit www.openstagehbg.com, or call 717-232-6736. As of January, Oyster Mill Playhouse announced 2022 Season Revisions to its Covid guidelines. Because of the dramatic spike in the number of cases, the theater’s board of directors has decided that for the safety of actors and patrons, Oyster Mill will postpone the upcoming production of “A Murder is Announced” while also canceling “Parade,” its musical. “A Murder is Announced” will run from March 18-April 3. For anyone who bought tickets for “Parade,” OMP will issue refunds as soon as possible, or you may transfer tickets to its other musical, “Little Shop of Horrors.” You can email any questions to businessmanager@oystermill.com or call directly at 717-737-6768. OMP is located at 1001 Oyster Mill Road, Camp Mill, 17011. Call For Actors Actors are wanted for 10-minute plays written by members of Playwrights Alliance of PA (PAPA), to be presented at the Original Mt. Gretna Cicada Festival. Casting will begin in April. Rehearsals start on the third Sunday in May and continue on the second and fourth Fridays of June and July — with August rehearsals to be announced. For further information, contact Cindy Dlugolecki at cindy.dlugolecki@gmail.com. 7 Barbara Trainin Blank is a freelance journalist, book author, editor, and playwright. She grew up in New York City in a house rich in the arts, which are a major focus of her writing. She lived in Harrisburg for 24 years and continues to contribute to regional publications.

Tailboard Talk/Robert Stakem

Learn How to Save a Life during American Heart Month

Editor’s note: Public safety professionals often hold informal discussions on the back bumper or tailboard of an ambulance or fire truck. Hence, the column’s tagline, “Tailboard Talk.”

ince 1964, the U.S. has recognized February as American Heart Month. Many organizations use this opportunity to promote heart health by recognizing the impact of heart attacks, high blood pressure and strokes. According to the American Heart Association (AHA), cardiovascular disease accounted for over 18 million deaths in 2019. 12 HARRISBURG MAGAZINE FEBRUARY 2022

If left untreated, cardiovascular disease can lead to sudden cardiac arrest, which occurs when the heart stops beating and vital lifesustaining functions cease. According to AHA data, in 2018 there were 392,872 instances of sudden cardiac arrest – the majority of which occurred outside of a hospital. When the heart stops beating during sudden cardiac arrest, time is crucial. With each passing minute, the chances for successful resuscitation lessen and the damage to the individual’s heart and brain increases. In most cases, this damage is irreversible. Calling 911, performing cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and using

an automatic external defibrillator (AED) are essential to improved patient outcomes. Calling 911 will initiate local emergency responders who can provide life-saving treatment. However, in most cases, this may not be enough to save a victim of sudden cardiac arrest. According to AHA’s CPR fact sheet, “less than 46% of people who experience an out-of-hospital cardiac arrest receive the immediate help that they need before professional help arrives.” The Sudden Cardiac Arrest Foundation notes the survival rate for cardiac arrests that happen outside of the hospital is 1 in 10. Additionally, the foundation noted in 2020 that the median annual CPR training rate is low, especially in rural areas, among Black and Hispanic communities and in counties with lower median household incomes. Increasing the number of people trained in basic CPR, coupled with the increased availability of AEDs, can save lives. On the AHA’s “Chain of Survival,” the first three links are recognition of cardiac arrest and

the activation of the emergency response system (911); early CPR; and rapid defibrillation. Even without formal training, civilians can provide this life-saving measure by following the AHA’s handsonly CPR guidance. Many first-aid and CPR courses are offered throughout our region, including at HACC. Will you make this month a time to reflect on your heart health and learn a skill that could save someone’s life? 7 Robert Stakem is executive director of the Senator John J. Shumaker Public Safety Center at HACC, Central Pennsylvania’s Community College.

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For The Love of Pets/Kristen Zellner

A healthy mouth makes for a healthy pet

ebruary is Pet Dental Health Month, and I would be remiss to overlook this extremely important aspect of pet care. We receive daily questions about how to remedy “dog and cat breath” from our pet loving community. Of course, there are hundreds of products that can be purchased to remedy the halitosis, but are those helping the problem or just covering it up? Though pet’s breath can be off-putting to begin with, it can indicate health problems. After a pet eats, tiny bits of the food are left behind on the teeth. These food particles mix with bacteria in the mouth and sit along the gum line, forming plaque. If plaque is not removed, it becomes tartar underneath the gumline and causes gingivitis. Gingivitis is a reversible, early stage, gum disease, that is likely the culprit when a pet’s breath first becomes foul. The next stage, periodontitis, is the inflammation and infection of the tissue that surrounds the teeth. It is not reversible and ultimately results in abscesses and bone loss. Periodontitis is also associated with heart, kidney, and liver diseases because the infection from the mouth can be carried into the bloodstream. Upon noticing the bad odor from your pet’s mouth, check their teeth and gums. The gums should be pink but not red and bloody. Teeth should not have yellow or brown scale. Watch your pet eat to see if they are favoring one side of their mouth over the other. Are they refusing to eat? Have they stopped chewing on their favorite bones or playing with toys? Are they drooling excessively? Do you see blood on their toys? If you notice any of these symptoms, don’t wait until it gets worse to find a solution. Make an appointment with your veterinarian and discuss the steps to take that are appropriate for your pet’s situation. Pet owners, including myself, often put these visits off because dental issues can lead to some hefty vet bills. I assure you that it is money well spent to avoid the suffering of your pets and even more costly dental procedures in the future. Preventing dental disease can be time consuming and take a little extra effort but the payoff is dramatic. Brushing your pet’s teeth

daily with an enzymatic toothpaste is going to eliminate much of the plaque that turns to tartar. Water additives that help kill oral bacteria are somewhat helpful for those pets that resist brushing. Even if you can’t brush daily, high quality dental chews and a less-processed diet will help ward off the bacteria responsible for causing dental issues. Notice that I didn’t say anything about dry food cleaning pets’ teeth. There is a good reason for that. It simply doesn’t. Throughout nearly two decades of working with pets and their people, I have heard this claim. Have you ever seen your pet throw up dry food? What was in it? Lots of unchewed pieces, perhaps? If they aren’t chewing their food, then how are their teeth getting clean? Even if dogs and cats were completely chewing the food, dry food turns gummy when it gets wet and then it gets stuck between the teeth and along the gumline. Dry food contains some form of starch that serves as a binder and a filler, which eventually breaks down to sugar. Bacteria love it. But, if you want to curb the buildup of bacteria in the mouth, simply don’t feed the little buggers what they want. Try feeding a balanced raw or gently cooked diet containing minimal amounts of starch. Fresh and low processed food is good for the entire body. As we know, better food improves overall health and strengthens the immune system. At the end of the day, the key to preventing poor oral health in your pets is you. Whatever method or methods you choose, make sure they are consistent and followed by regular veterinary checkups. 7 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.

Cinematic Ramblings/Kevyn Knox

Cinematic Ramblings with Kevyn Knox he top ten list. It’s the annual rite of every film critic. And I’m no different. So, without further ado, here are my favorite films of 2021.

1. Licorice Pizza – Paul Thomas Anderson, one of the best directors working today, hands us the most personal and down to Earth film of his career. The maker of such films as There Will be Blood, Boogie Nights, and Magnolia, gives us the account of a fifteenyear-old child actor and budding entrepreneur and his strange yet beautiful friendship with a twenty-five-year-old woman. Cooper Hoffman, son of the late Philip Seymour Hoffman, and Alana Haim, from the sister band Haim, make their film debuts and blow the whole shebang out of the water. Bradley Cooper also has a small scenery chewing cameo that is worthy of an Oscar. 2. Belfast – A black and white film by Kenneth Branagh set in the wartorn Northern Ireland city in the late 1960’s. A cast of mostly unknowns (at least in the US) and including Jamie Dornan, the star of Fifty Shades 14 HARRISBURG MAGAZINE FEBRUARY 2022

of Gray, in a subtle and quite shockingly brilliant performance, the film is like something Orson Welles would have made in his heyday. 3. West Side Story – I loved the original, but Steven Spielberg manages to improve on the 1961 Oscar winner. The director fixes the inherent problems with the original (everyone is both appropriately cast and does their own singing) and takes it up another level with its production design, cinematography, and editing - while still keeping all those vibrant Sondheim/Bernstein songs. All that and Rita Moreno, too! 4. The Power of the Dog – Oscar nominated director Jane Campion is back after a too long sabbatical with her most powerful film since The Piano. Benedict Cumberbatch stars and gives us a performance that reminds one of Daniel Day-Lewis at his most powerful and frightening. 5. Nightmare Alley – Guillermo del Toro’s nightmarish noir, starring

Bradley Cooper as a con man on the run, takes this film lover back to the heyday of the film noir. The only thing missing is the black and white cinematography that goes along with any true noir classic. Oh yeah, a black and white version is coming soon! 6. The Tragedy of Macbeth – Directed by Joel Coen, in his first film without brother Ethan, this Shakespeare adaptation is done in 4:3 aspect ratio and stark black & white and looks as if it could have been made by Welles or Dreyer or Fritz Lang back in the day. It is also highlighted by one of the best performances of the year by Denzel Washington.

9. The Hand of God – Italian Maestro Paolo Sorrentino’s film about love, loss, and yearning is one of the most achingly and beautifully devastating films of the year. 10. Last Night in Soho – Edgar Wright gives us a stunningly eerie film about a young woman who can go back in time in her dreams. With its swinging London set pieces, the film is appropriately terrifying at times and always gorgeous to look at. That’s it gang. See you at the movies. 7 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.

7. Shiva Baby – A quietly hilarious look at a young Jewish woman, played by Rachel Sennott, trying to traverse a family shiva while simultaneously having a nervous breakdown. The film was directed by first time director Emma Seligman. 8. The French Dispatch – This film has everything that you would expect from hipster auteur Wes Anderson (quirky characters, colorful sets and costumes, Owen Wilson & Bill Murray) and happens to be his best film in more than a decade.

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Postcards From… /Steven G. Williams

Postcards From …

Introducing you to the concept of Value Travel Editor’s note: Steven G. Williams first came to my attention as a local fiction writer (“Skadi”), but until recently I had no idea that his side-passion was travel. I believe his insight into the ins and outs, pros and cons of “where and how” to travel will be a welcome addition to Harrisburg Magazine – and I’m confident you’ll agree.

verything is more expensive now – if it isn’t inflation, it’s stagnant wages or an increase in your rent. So, the last thing you may be considering is an expensive vacation. Who wants to spend $1,000 on a plane ticket when inflation negated your COLA? But hold up, don’t close out of that Expedia link just yet. Travel writers talked about budget travel long before the pandemic nearly decimated the travel industry. And I understand. My friends like to call me cheap, but I correct them and say I’m frugal. But budget travel requires you to make sacrifices that may negatively impact your trip, and remember, this is your escape from the daily grind. Do you really want to negatively impact your break from the boss? Probably not. But how do you spend your money wisely when money is so hard to come by? Let me introduce you to the concept of value travel - the idea that you get as much as possible out of your trip, so your dollar goes further. “But Steve, how is that different from budget travel?” Let me explain. Budget travel means instead of a hotel, you choose a hostel. Instead of dining out, you make dinner at your Airbnb. Instead of an Airbnb Experience, you walk along the river. Instead of flying Delta, you fly Spirit. Don’t get me wrong, those things will not ruin your trip. A walk along the river is never a bad thing. Plus, if the money you save gets used constructively, then good for you. But if you take those costsaving hacks to the extreme and spread them out over the course of your trip, then you might start to harsh your mellow. I’m speaking from experience. Years ago, I opted to stay in a hostel in Rome, just to save a couple hundred dollars. It turned out to be a party hostel where I got very little sleep after full days of exploring. Value travel means you add value to the place you’re visiting. Now I know you’re saying, “I’m going to Paris, how can I, just some dude with a bachelor’s degree from Shippensburg, add value to Paris?” You do that, by researching your destination, talking with locals online,

16 HARRISBURG MAGAZINE FEBRUARY 2022

and speaking to friends and family who have already gone. You’re increasing the value of Paris for you personally. You’re giving greater meaning to sites like the Eiffel Tower or the Louvre. For most people, these are just must-see landmarks that are cool to see even if you know nothing about them. However, if you research these sites, then when you see them in-person, the experience will be far more intimate. Another example is to look beyond the local cuisine and research regional specialties. Just like in the US, where different regions eat different foods, other countries specialize by region also. Know what they eat in the region you’re visiting and order it when you arrive. In fact, look up how that food became the regional specialty. You won’t be able to change the price of the dish, but you will change what it means for you and the level of joy you get from it. Another option is, if you’re heading to a city like Paris, look up what neighborhood you connect with. Some areas focus on shopping, others food, and others art. Don’t just stay where it is cheapest, look for the place you’ll get the most out of. I’m not telling you to spend your kid’s college fund on a lavish trip that you just researched more, but what I am saying is that rather than always picking the cheapest option, look for ways to increase the value. You can even pair value travel tips with budget travel trips to really make your dollar work for you. Stay in a hostel in a foodie neighborhood, then use your surplus funds to try the regional specialty at the nearby restaurant. I guarantee by focusing on value travel as opposed to budget travel, you will have a more meaningful trip and come back far more rested, recharged, and ready to take on the next variant. 7 Steven Williams is an avid traveler, amateur cook, and fantasy author. He serves on the Harrisburg School Board and is the Associate Director for the Pennsylvania Statewide Afterschool/ Youth Development Network. He is a graduate of Northwestern University and lives in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania with his wife Danielle.

Poem/Iya Isoke

Massage Therapy By Iya Isoke Tonight I think I’ll remove my brain and Place it in a hot steaming whirlpool bubble bath with aloe and peppermint salts to relieve the stress that stretches it to the utmost capacity Tonight I think I will give my brain massage therapy. Maybe then for that brief moment of relaxation it will cease to process thought. See, I'm always thinking Even when I’m sleeping Always wondering Always surmising A non-stop flow of utterance no matter how trivial or powerful or important; Perhaps one day all these thoughts will merge into one and these words I pen will echo vibrations strong enough to release the chains of condemnation that have you penned in darkness. Perhaps one day all these thoughts will merge into one and these words I pen Will resound vibrating off the walls and breathe life into a man’s dead soul. See, I must be careful with the intonation I put into the airwaves I must nurture the messenger carrying words from my central nervous system traveling through twisted tunnels of concepts, opinions and notions caught in a maze of life stories which amaze me and intrigue you Careful not to lead you astray Or push you away I see you’re willing to listen So, I should have something worthwhile to say. Tonight I think I’ll remove my brain and Place it in a hot steaming whirlpool bubble bath with peppermint salts To relieve the stress that stretches it to the utmost capacity Tonight I think I will give my brain massage therapy. Tonight I think I will pray. A prolific speaker and writer since 1997, Iya “SoKey” Isoke quickly emerged as an outspoken voice of her community. She was twice appointed Poet Laureate for the City of Harrisburg, Pennsylvania. Although a proud Harrisburg native, she relocated to California to work in logistics while enjoying writing and performing. www.thesokeyexperience.com

HARRISBURG MAGAZINE FEBRUARY 2022 17

#hbgmag Influencer

Q&A With: Josh Kesler, ‘Bohemian’ Business Developer

Local entrepreneur continues to have a “clear” vision for Midtown Story By Randy Gross

rgross@harrisburgmagazine.com

Photos By Rick Snizik

here’s something that can be said about salvaging instead of demolishing. Building up rather than tearing down. Refurbishing and revitalizing. Those are all words vital to Josh Kesler’s entrepreneurial vocabulary, and it’s the way he’s turned those words into action in Midtown Harrisburg – and beyond - that have impacted the local community in ways too numerous to count. It is because of his efforts in transforming the former Stokes Millwork into a thriving restaurant, brewery, and multi-space arts studio and, perhaps even more important, the way that project’s farm-to-table model has helped to stabilize the city’s historic Broad Street Market, that Kesler has been selected as our “Influencer” of the month. I sat down with Josh at The Millworks (340 Verbeke St., Harrisburg) recently for the following Q&A: RG: Please take me back in time to your preMillworks days: were you born and raised in Central PA? What schools did you attend? JOSH: I was born in Harrisburg. I went to Central Dauphin East High School. And for college, I went to Lebanon Valley College in Annville. I studied German and Political Science. Those are things that are very useful when you’re getting into the restaurant industry. (he laughs) I joke about the most common majors that we find in the restaurant industry are languages – Spanish, German – and English or Communications. Philosophy is a dead ringer. (laughs) There’s a type of individual that seems to gravitate to food & bev. They’re typically Humanities, like foreign cultures and food … there’s definitely somewhat of a type. Sometimes the kitchen is more of a scientific mind, an engineering mind – like the brewer, for instance, he’s a chemist. Anyway, I went to LVC … I taught at the Harrisburg Academy for a couple years … then, after teaching, I was also in a band. You 18 HARRISBURG MAGAZINE FEBRUARY 2022

know, a life-long musician … my real passion was songwriting and playing in bands. That business is actually a little harder than the restaurant business. (laughs) So that was good training for the business that I’m in now. So, then I went into real estate for years … buying, selling, flipping, that sort of thing. So, that’s kind of what got me going in the business world. RG: So, was it in your mind back then that you would eventually own a restaurant? JOSH: No, definitely not … hell, no. Or, if it did, I was like “Oh, I’ll never do that!” I actually found this building because an architect friend

of mine was looking for a new project. I said, “there’s this great old building, I’ve never been in it, but I think it’s for sale.” So, we drove up here, and we came in and looked around, and I just fell in love with this building. And then I started thinking about all the possibilities, of what we could do with it. And the Susquehanna Art Museum was opening that next year … and I had had an idea before of having, like, band studios, common spaces, or whatever, and having a bar attached to it, so it kind of morphed from that. And I thought, well, maybe I could do artist studios. And then I met a local artist, Tara Chickey, and then she and I started putting it together, and she had a roster of artists, and she started showing the

space and we got the whole thing rented out. So, after a 2 ½ year renovation, we finally got it open. Within the first 6 months here we realized we had something that people were really interested in. RG: So, how was it that you were able to eventually gain the know-how – and funds to invest in projects like The Millworks? JOSH: I tried to do it on my own, which I was able to slowly get done. You know, I was selling a house here, to fund putting the roof on … and I’d sell another house to get a little bit further. And, once I got it to a point, I was able to bring some bank financing in. Where they could see that “well, now there’s a roof on it, and there’s a floor” and I got it a little closer to a vision standpoint, and then we got the artists on leases … and so, I was able to bring enough to the bank at that point, without any partners. Sometimes when you have a clear vision of what you want to do, it’s a little easier to just put the blinders on and go. It’s fortunate, at this point, that we’ve been successful. RG: So … what brought you initially to your interest in helping to revitalize Midtown Harrisburg? JOSH: This was the first thing that I really got involved with in Midtown, even though my wife and I lived up on 4th street almost 20 years ago. I had sold a bunch of real estate and I was just looking for the next thing that would keep my interest, and that I really wanted to be a part of. And it started all coming together here. The bookstore down the street was already there … and the Broad Street Market … and I thought “is there a better place in our region that you might want to spend the afternoon than this little quadrant.” You know, it has an urban feel to it … and it’s like, there’s diversity in the city, there’s lots of different people and characters. RG: At the website for The Millworks, in addition to all the cool stuff about reclaiming salvaged lumber and reusing brick from an old farmhouse for the wood-fired oven, the space itself is described as having a “true Bohemian atmosphere.” Do you think of yourself as a bohemian? JOSH: Yeah, I guess so. In my sort of business role, you just have to be a little more mindful of the organization you’re running, and the responsibilities that you have with it. But I absolutely consider myself a bohemian outside of that role. And I guess that probably means a lot of different things to a lot of different people. To me, the connotation is See Kesler on Page 20 HARRISBURG MAGAZINE FEBRUARY 2022 19

Kesler, continued from Page 19

someone that’s interested in multi-faceted humanities, art and music, and food and bev … not very status driven, and pretty chill. RG: You’ve been a good friend to local farmers, and also to Broad Street Market (and even serve on the Market’s board of directors). How important do you think it is to have strong “farm-to-table” connections within the local community? JOSH: You know, I think it’s been very impactful. At this point, we’re over 2 million dollars of food purchases from local farms in our 5 or 6 years of operation … I think it’s made a real impact, and I think it’s really interesting to see how connected that economic chain is, from the consumer who comes in, through the restaurant, back to the farmer. But I realize that all of that impact comes from the customers and the consumers coming in. Without them wanting to make the impact that they want to make, none of that works. It doesn’t work for me, it doesn’t work for the farmer … really, at the end of the day, it’s about that in the end. We’re thankful that that demand has been here for us, and that we’re able to pass that through to the farmers. RG: You’ve also committed yourself to helping to promote the local arts scene, and The Millworks even has spaces devoted to local artists and craftspeople. How would you describe the local arts community to someone visiting Harrisburg for the first time? JOSH: What I hear a lot from customers coming in, or people that I’m talking to, they say “I never knew there were so many artists in Harrisburg.” That’s what I hear most often. So, I think there’s a vibrancy to the arts community in Harrisburg that people might not be aware of if they’re not from Harrisburg. And, over the last 10 years, I’ve seen a lot of artists and musicians starting to gravitate to the city … because it’s a great place to live and it’s relatively affordable compared to some larger markets. RG: In 2019, you opened another restaurant, The Watershed Pub, in a place you and your family had lived in for almost 10 years, Camp Hill – and kudos to you for once again preserving the architectural distinctiveness of the building, plus using “sustainable sourcing” for all the seafood. Do you foresee any additional plans for the Camp Hill area? 20 HARRISBURG MAGAZINE FEBRUARY 2022

JOSH: At this point, from a population base, I’m not seeing much more development going on. I mean, we love The Watershed Pub, it’s a great building and a great community. But we don’t have any future plans for expansion in Camp Hill. RG: And now, you’re also developing the property at 1400 North Third Street in Harrisburg. The last I heard, the exact plans were a little sketchy, and you were hoping to partner with a chef. Are your plans anymore “set in stone” at this point? JOSH: The plans are still pretty fluid, and I don’t have too much more to report on that. More than likely, it’s going to be toward the end of 2022 before something’s going on there. Just with the labor market being what it is, and obviously this Covid thing kind of crept back in on us, so that makes you just hit the pause button. You need some surety. But I think that’s going to be a great long-term, viable project. Great location. But I don’t want to push it too fast or bite off more than we can chew. RG: Like many restaurants, The Millworks was hit hard by Covid, and even closed temporarily. Have things returned to normalcy, or semi-normalcy at this point, and have you been able to bring back the majority of your staff? JOSH: Between the two places, we’re around 90 people now. We were around that number just at Millworks prior to [Covid]. If I had to guess, I’d say we’re at about 70 percent capacity, from a revenue standpoint and operational hours, that sort of thing. All things considered, we’re in super great shape, knock on wood, I’m thankful every day. But you have to recognize the challenges that are still there. I’m really happy where we are, but also looking forward to being a little more profitable. RG: I know that it’s not always easy for people to pat themselves on the back or “toot their own horn.” But there’s no denying that you’ve played a huge role in helping to not only revitalize Midtown Harrisburg, but also bring a diversity of people together to enjoy great food and art. What would you say has been your biggest impact on the Harrisburg community – so far? JOSH: So, if I reflect on it, there were certainly others before me … the [Midtown Scholar] bookstore, and H-MAC, and Susquehanna Art

Museum … but I think my greatest impact has probably been helping to stabilize the Broad Street Market. That had real impact on the community. Think how critical the market is to Harrisburg and the Midtown. Look at the polarization in politics, and the sort of wanting to remove ourselves into our groups. The Market is such a mixing bowl. All kinds of income types, all kinds of ethnicities, and it’s fun. It’s a real treasure. Not just on the food level and the grocery level … it’s a meeting place. And I think doing The Millworks and having customers come to it, I think that greatest impact is adding to the growing confidence that other people are saying “hey, I could go into Midtown and invest some money and it’s gonna work out.” RG: With that said, any other big plans or projects on the horizon for Josh Kesler? JOSH: I’m just trying to help create that feeling that this is a great daytime destination. Come down to the market and kick around and do a little shopping … eat some good food, and find a good barbecue joint, and have a good beer over at Zeroday. I love that vision, and I’m just going keep chipping away at that for the next couple of years. 7

The seagulls soar over the Atlantic City boardwalk mocking our fevered casino dreams of instant wealth and dive for the odd half eaten junk food castaway. Plus-one is great on a date to a party, but not so great when your doctor says that's your new weight. Which way is clockwise on a digital watch? Where do you go to give up, Charlie Brown? What the world needs now is love, love, love … and refinancing. If, as the scientists claim, the entire universe is shrinking, then why can't I lose weight in the process? Stamps are Forever, everything else is temporary.

HARRISBURG MAGAZINE FEBRUARY 2022 21

Short Story/The Note

The Note

Story By Dana Larkin Sauers • Illustration By Adrian Sauers

njoying a tall pour of Crianza while lounging in Plaza Mayor in the center of Madrid proffered a perfect prematurely spring day. We had toured the Prado and Regina Sophia earlier, stood in the center of Plaza de Toros de Las Ventas, and had just nestled into umbrellaed seats, thoroughly enjoying the gratuitous olives served upon the starched linen, and mostly, rest for our weary legs. Having newly arrived in Spain, there were so many sites to visit, so much to take in—the pause of this moment yielded our aspirations to something altogether different. Inwardly surrounding the only slightly rectangular common, apartment windows towered upwards. (I had begun to fantasize about living within and was already complaining about the midnight congregations of revelry and rabble rousing interrupting my rest.) No, it wasn’t necessary to move from this spot. I could see the Toro Bar at an angle, the large horned bovine heads hung within the walls along with pictures of both celebratory and gored matadors. I tipped a seated guitarist, as I always do, but noticed he had moved twice in disappointment of not achieving either recognition or adequate payment for his talent. How quickly can life’s path plummet to despair in the midst of adventurous opportunity, I mused. Turning this thought over in my mind, I viewed copious pedestrians coming and going from all directions, some from the the large bronze equestrian statue of King Felipe III, others from behind the channeled ingress leading from Mercado de san Miguel, that heaven for anyone who holds an appetite for the finest of tapas cuisine and comradery. Directly in front of us were three women, newly seated, laughing and chatting the way the young do, comfortably touching each other as they spoke. A mother had arrived with her toddler, a little girl with dark hair and eyes contrasting against her paleyellow dress and white, laced bobby socks. Although the niñita was demure, her demeanor did not restrict the three women from fawning. The mother responded with a polite smile as mothers do when their children are appreciated in some way by strangers. Next to these women, a middle-aged man had raised his head and politely taken in the exchange. His connection was clearly kind but an afterthought. He had the look of a man who isn’t altogether handsome but could be considered interesting with an extended conversation. He was casually attired, but even in this there was a certain loftiness about him. It may have been his posture, his straight back and solidly placed legs. Reclined this way on the rounded base of the

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fountain not yet in use, he wore a comfortable light weight jacket, ordinary trousers, and walking shoes. His thinning hairline made him look more distinct than his clothing. The most noticeable aspect though was his watch. I had left mine back in the states along with my cell phone in order to temporarily stay “the great western way” that keeps me racing. No, I had nowhere to go and nowhere in particular to be in this moment. Without intention, I nonetheless continued to watch him while my husband silently enjoyed his wine. This man in front of me seemed to commune in occupying the same space with the same purpose, but how quickly can one be deceived, for within a short time, he began to assume small habits of agitation. I observed his hand reach into his chest coat pocket and retrieve a small piece of paper. So diminutive was it that I wouldn’t have noticed it within his hand but for the movement in getting it there. His eyes canvassed it momentarily, and then he replaced it in his pocket. My usual curiosity soon posited what the note might be communicating. Because of its size, I ventured, it was most likely a communique revealing a place and time of a meeting. After all, it took him scant time to review its contents. But who was coming? As my anticipation grew, I noticed his left leg start to move up and down rapidly the way one’s does when waiting for a train. His long fingers suddenly tapping on the granite beneath him as if keeping time to a song. Next, his bottom shifted left to right, like one seated entirely too long. Again, he scanned his watch. Again, he reached for the note. As time progressed, his habits increased in volume and intensity: his pocket, his watch, his watch, his pocket. Who were we waiting for? I scarcely had mentally apologized for my scurrilous imagination – A mistress? Some scoundrel of a business partner? An underworld thug? A curvaceous prostitute from an internet dating service? - when the man abruptly arose. Over my shoulder, he wadded the paper and perfectly pitched it toward the egress behind us, directly into the rubbish can. 7 Dana Larkin Sauers, Director of the Institute for Leadership Ethics, Achievement and Development at Mount St. Mary's University in Emmitsburg, MD, was Hanover, PA's Poet Laureate from 2005-2007. Her published books include “Between the Space of Grace and Gray,” “My Letter to the World,” “Pura Vida,” and “If These Stones Could Speak.”

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Central PA's Winter Wonderland

PHOTO BY PAUL HOOD

PHOTO BY KEITH A. SPANGLER

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PHOTO BY KEITH A. SPANGLER

PHOTO BY PAUL HOOD

PHOTO BY KEITH A. SPANGLER

PHOTO BY PAUL HOOD

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Living Legends and Historic Heroes Story By Markie Wolfe

“Sing a song full of the faith that the dark past has taught us Sing a song full of the hope that the present has brought us…”

hese powerful words are an excerpt from the song “Lift Every Voice and Sing” known as the Negro national anthem. Although these lyrics were written over a century ago, the message is still moving, and the impact is far from outdated. Black History Month is a time of celebration and reflection. It’s a time where inspiration is drawn from the past to paint a colorful future! As stated in the song, the past may have some darkness, but it has taught us to keep the faith for tomorrow and embrace the hope of today. Every February, people of the African diaspora pay homage to their ancestors who have forged a path full of promise, progression, and perseverance. However, the best tribute that one can make to their forefathers is to perpetuate their legacy of greatness. Even though history should be honored, it is important to practice the art of giving people their roses while they can smell them. Stories of great leaders, inventors, abolitionists, and activists are often told, but there are many that have been birthed before our eyes in this millennium that ought to be acknowledged. Black Americans are still making waves in the deep and wide optimistic ocean of opportunities today. Sha’Carri Richardson was all the talk last summer at the 2021 Olympics in Tokyo. Richardson, a Dallas, Texas native, rose to fame in 2019 at merely 19 years of age. While a freshman at LSU, she was named SEC Freshman Track Athlete of the Year after winning the 2019 NCAA title in a college record of 10.75 seconds. Sha’Carri also received the 2019 Bowerman Award, the highest individual honor in collegiate track and field. Richardson briefly spoke about losing her biological mother and the trials and tribulations that her family has gone through on her journey to the Olympics. Nevertheless, at 21 years old, Sha’Carri Richardson won the women’s 100m race in the Olympics and is now one of the ten fastest women in history. 26 HARRISBURG MAGAZINE FEBRUARY 2022

Multi-Grammy-winning artist Lizzo released her hit album, “Cuz I Love You,” in 2019 and since then has not ceased to shock the world with her racy getups and bold personality. Yet it isn’t her style or her songs that she is most proud of. Lizzo has inspired many plus-size women to embrace their curves. She has become a major advocate of self-love and body positivity. When “Vogue” magazine released their October 2020 issue, it was Lizzo who had the honor of gracing the cover. Lizzo is now the first curvy black woman to achieve this. As reported by Good Morning America, Lizzo posted on Instagram shortly after the release: "I am the first big Black woman on the cover of Vogue magazine. The first Black anything feels overdue. But our time has come," Lizzo wrote. "To all my Black girls, if someone like you hasn't done it yet — BE THE FIRST." On January 20, 2021, vice president Kamala Harris made history when she became the first Black American, the first Asian American, and the first woman to occupy the office of Vice President of the United States. One could even dare to say that Vice President Harris was destined for greatness as her mother was also an overachiever, striving to change lives. The year that Kamala was born, her mother, Shyamala Gopalan, a breast cancer scientist, received her doctorate. Both of Kamala’s parents were activists and they surrounded her with influential leaders such as Supreme Court Justice Thurgood Marshall and Constance Baker Motely, who was also a civil rights leader. Vice President Harris has inspired many girls around the globe to dream big and do what they’ve been told is impossible. Writer, producer, director, and actor, Tyler Perry has made a name for himself in the media arena. Throughout the years, Tyler has opened doors for himself and for many African American singers, songwriters, actors, and entertainers. Believing in himself when others doubted his talents, Tyler Perry has funded the majority of his many film, television, and stage play productions. Being the sole

content creator of his work, he has selffinanced his material and owns the rights to them. Tyler’s entertaining films and prime time soaps can be found on the Oprah Winfrey Network (OWN) and BET. Tyler Perry has gone from a meager crowd of 30 at his first failed show in Atlanta to a 330-acre self-titled studio right outside of Atlanta. Opened in 2019, Tyler Perry Studios is the first black-owned entertainment studio and production facility in the country. Black History Month is a pleasant reminder of how far we’ve come as a nation and motivation for what can be achieved. Legends live on through history and heroes make sure the worst parts of history do not repeat. Narratives can be changed. The word “never” can transform into “not yet.” The present is full of potential and the future is marinating in promise. 7

Facing the rising sun of our new day begun Let us march on till victory is won…”

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Diary of a Burg Playwright:

Shakespeare Theatre Association Conference Story and Photos By Paul Hood

he Shakespeare Theatre Association Conference is held each year. Hosted by a member company, the conference brings together Theatre Professionals from all over the country. This year the Conference was held in Harrisburg, PA, joining a list of other host cities such as Prague, London, and San Francisco. Below is my personal experience during Classics Fest, a week-long festival of plays to celebrate diversity and classic works. Seven years after Gamut Theatre Artistic Director Clark Nicholson approached me – asking, “Hey Paul, how would you feel about being commissioned to write an original play?” - I had no idea in 2022 Clark’s simple question would be a reality. It came fast after several meetings and starts and stops due to my crazy and often hectic life in theatre arts. But there we were, my resident company (Narcisse Theatre) in a room reading over a new work (“African Company: The Mystery of the African Grove Theatre”). NCT core members Erika Eberly, Stiles Everett, Samuel Eisenhuth, Aaron Bomar and James Mitchell were reading their hearts out on a work that may not have happened if it wasn’t for the support and encouragement of Gamut Theatre Group and a keen dramaturgical dive into the infamous happenings of the African Grove Theatre led by Gamut Theatre’s Kim Greenawalt. Here is a brief diary of the week leading up to the reading: Day 1, Monday. Due to my schedule, I’m only able to take in evening events. I already know I’m anticipating fellow Playwright and friend David Ramon Zayas’ poignant and personal play, “I 28 HARRISBURG MAGAZINE FEBRUARY 2022

Don’t Speak Spanish,” which tells the story of one man’s search for identity and to learn more about his culture. Told through a series of well executed time periods, IDSS had its first stage reading months before its debut for conference attendees and the public. But, I hadn’t realized the show was sold out. I had invited my friend and my girlfriend along and with my embarrassment evident (as a mumble through my mask to the person working in the box office,) a lady just feet away is pleading with a volunteer checking proof of vaccination cards as she had forgotten hers and further, was not clear on the policy regarding masks in the theatre. Fate was on my side, and two spots opened for my guests. Needless to say, I’m glad I was able to see David’s show because it was quite an achievement that earned him and his cast a muchdeserved standing ovation. Day 2, Tuesday. My first time in Sunoco Theatre at Whitaker Center in downtown Harrisburg in what feels like an eternity, my girlfriend and I perch in the orchestra seats located in the left side of the house to take in Lisa Wolpe’s powerful one person show, “Shakespeare and the Alchemy of Gender.” The previous night, I had briefly met Lisa at the urging of Clark but was not able to pick her brain; but, seeing her take the stage only to leave it stained with the remnants of her soulful outpouring that told the story of her late father and her struggles with gender identity, I felt I learned more than perhaps she would’ve revealed in casual conversation. Lucky me. Lucky us. Another great night of theatre; another night that brought audience

members to their feet. I left inspired and a bit…scared. Day 3, Wednesday. After months of rehearsal, it was my cast conducting its final run-through before opening Friday. In the back of my mind? The last two performances and how strong they were. F.L. Henley Jr., who’s directed most of my work – actually, all of my work-over the last six years - exuded energy and pacing during the run-through as though my nervousness guided him, giving direction to the cast in a style similar in fashion to how David Mamet does when working scenes with actors: hand gestures that clearly say, “PICK UP THE PACE,” “GET TO THE END OF THE LINE” (signature utterances from Henley) as the work came to life and all the technical elements were added. As rehearsal progressed, I had to keep telling myself “It’s only a staged reading,” one that, come that Friday, would pose the question of what exactly happened to The African Grove Theatre to a room full of Theatre Professionals that know everything there is about Shakespeare and theatre in general. Nearby, as thoughts of a great performance or nothing consume us, I hear one of the actors struggling to say the word, “indelible.” I gulp. See Shakespeare Theatre on Page 30

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Shakespeare Theatre, continued from Page 29

Day 4, Thursday. Theatre has an A-list and on that list, you’ll most likely find the name Debra Ann Byrd. “Becoming Othello: A Black Girl’s Journey” graced the Sunoco Theatre stage with another oneperson show that ripped beating hearts from its audience. Byrd’s show opens with a melodic cry “I can hear them calling…” The powerful performance follows this beautiful verbal motif throughout her story - a personal one - as Byrd weaves through a world of pain, self-discovery, and a passion for theatre and her quest to make Othello her own, despite societal rules about gender in Shakespeare. Through laughter and song, and confessions with unflinching honesty, Byrd is an undeniable force on stage. The show closes with another ovation - a well-deserved one. I leave hoping I have a chance to meet her despite her busy schedule. But I think, if anything, we follow each other on Instagram so I’ll just let her know via a private message how much I enjoyed her work. (I didn’t message her privately, I just posted on her feed) Day 5, Friday. It’s the day of my show. Seven years of working on and off on “African Company: The Mystery of the African Grove” come down to this night. I’m nervous but it doesn’t show on the surface. It’s good nerves though, nothing debilitating at first. “It’s just a staged reading,” I mumble to myself as I sit tucked away in the corner of the Select Medical Mainstage at Gamut, looking over a house consumed only by five souls. “This is normal,” I think. “It’s Harrisburg.” “It’s a new work. I’ll be happy if 50 people show up on a Friday that was, earlier in the day, slowed by a quick moving snowstorm … and it wouldn’t be a Paul Hood play without something weird happening anyway, right?” My girlfriend assures me people are coming. I don’t believe her. “I need a drink,” I say, and head for the bar to discover there are more people entering 30 HARRISBURG MAGAZINE FEBRUARY 2022

the theatre than I imagined and two of my close friends are there. I’m now hopeful. I feel confident. The house is solid. Lights are up, actors in place. The show induces laughs and reaction and a few tears near the end. No one walks out midway through. It’s a good night. F.L. Henley and I look at each other, glances of approval and satisfaction. After the show, the talk-back with the audience is helpful, insightful and way too long, as it is sometimes with plays that deal with mysterious events in history. I leave the theatre that night reinvigorated and more inspired than ever. That night, sleep evaded me as it often does before and after shows. As I tossed and turned while trying to sleep (I had discovered while having a celebratory drink at Sturges Speakeasy that I somehow lost an important document, which I later found in the Gamut Theatre dressing room) I’m reminded that I’m living the nerve-wracking life of Playwright and that, through it all, it is something I would happily do all over again. 7 www.classicsfest.org

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Artful Inspirations Around Us

Michelle Green’s awakening as an artist Story and Photos By Christina Heintzelman

cheintzelman@benchmarkmediallc.com

ichelle Green’s story about her first artistic experience is the best and goriest that you may ever hear. “When I was about 3 or 4 years old, I was running in the kitchen with a glass in my hand. I fell and cut myself badly enough that there was blood – lots of it. I didn’t cry; instead, I decided I could use it as paint, and I began decorating the refrigerator with my bright red artwork.” Of course, mom came to the rescue to patch her up but immediately realized that her daughter had quite a talent – not to mention a ton of courage! And it did not take long until other people were noticing Green’s talent. In both second and third grade she was awarded scholarships for art classes given through Art Association of Harrisburg. “My sister, Kelli, and I always made our own paper dolls complete with all their outfits. This may have been my first introduction to the idea of fashion design,” she says. But she also credits her high 32 HARRISBURG MAGAZINE FEBRUARY 2022

school art teacher, Charles Acri, with expanding her idea of the entire gamut of visual art. “He was a phenomenal teacher; I had the opportunity to work in so many different mediums and because of him I went on to win Gold Key Awards.” As a native of Harrisburg, she stayed close to home until after high school when she spread her wings to study fashion illustration at the Art Institute of Philadelphia. “Unfortunately for me I was studying for this field at the same time that designers were beginning to realize that they could do their own fashion illustration, and the field began to dry up.” This did not deter Green as she and her friend, Shannan Rivers, decided they could develop a line of clothing - which they did. It was branded as Shannan Jene and sold at the JC Penney store in Philadelphia in the early ‘90’s. At the same time, Green was also exhibiting her paintings and working for the October Gallery in Philadelphia, a gallery which has been showcasing African

American art and artists for 36 years. But even with these successes, she was feeling adrift and says, “During this time period I was creating art that was what the public wanted to buy and not what was my passion – not what was in my heart.” Green returned to Harrisburg in 1992 and settled back in, still looking for her passion. Fast forward to 2002 - her young daughter, Sierra, who at the time was 5 years old, had an artistic streak and created bookmarkers. Green would often take her daughter over to Broad Street Market on a Saturday and set up a little outdoor area where her daughter would sell her bookmarkers, and she would set up her easel and paint. At this same time, Green’s dad was in a nursing home and one of the things she delighted in was taking her paintings to him as he loved her work, and it brightened his and her day. “When dad died in 2014, I completely shut down and could no longer paint.” Green’s passion for her art came back when she was in her 50’s when Covid was making headway and the murder of George Floyd was making headlines. “Something was triggered in me, and I had flashbacks to a time in my childhood when I was the only black child in my class from sixth to eighth grade, and I endured many racist comments and actions.” This trigger for Green’s newest work causes her to say, “Nothing I painted before this awakening matters anymore, I have found my voice and my passion.” Green’s style is totally her own and in many instances she relates the black experience through the eyes of a woman. Her paintings compel you to see into the piece and feel the soul of the work. Some of her works speak of the bondage and disconnection women often face while

PHOTO SUBMITTED

Artist Michelle Green

video, which can be found on YouTube. This video was produced in 2014 and features Pharrell Williams hit song, Happy, playing as a background to an amazing 4+ minute video of Harrisburg residents expressing their zest, enthusiasm, and love for our city. Green also produced a video for our new mayor, Wanda Williams. In addition, her continuing video series dealing with domestic violence and child abuse victims entitled Dark Light Stories of Abuse can be watched via this link: https://fb.watch/ anclvrzLso/.

“I was thrilled to receive this vote of confidence and assurance from the voting public. My confidence and faith in my artistic abilities skyrocketed and gave me added impetus to move forward with my art.” — Michelle Green others celebrate a liberation of spirit. This tension creates works of a deep personal nature. Although much of this article has focused on Green’s painting talents, she is also a photographer, film producer, and a writer of movie scripts. Green is responsible for the Harrisburg Be Happy

Along with Bethany Nicholle, Green was a co-winner of Harrisburg Magazine’s Simply the Best Artist in 2021 and has this to say about her award: “I was thrilled to receive this vote of confidence and assurance from the voting public. My confidence and faith in my artistic abilities skyrocketed and See Michelle Green on Page 34 HARRISBURG HARRISBURG MAGAZINE MAGAZINE FEBRUARY FEBRUARY 2022 2021 33

Michelle Green, continued from Page 34

gave me added impetus to move forward with my art.” At about the same time, Green began thinking about opening an art gallery in the city. “I spoke with my business partner, Dr. Dale Dangleben, and I was tasked with finding a location that would have good visibility and the right vibes.” This task was accomplished when Green found the property located at 1224 N Third Street, which is now the home of Nyeusi Gallery. Nyeusi is the Swahili word for black. Dangleben, in addition to being the Director of Trauma Services for Penn State Health, Holy Spirit Medical Center, is an accomplished author, poet, and photographer. He has a love and knowledge of Caribbean and African art which, coupled with Green’s knowledge of the local art community, makes for the perfect combination of African, Caribbean, and African American art. Because of the variety and the quality of arts, this is a gallery worthy of a big city. And, because of the foresight of Green and Dangleben, it exists right here in our city. Oils, acrylics, installation pieces, mixed media, prints, photography, sculpture, jewelry, books can all be found in this vastly eclectic gallery. But Green and Dangleben did not stop there. They have created Nyeusi Media, which is equipped for doing podcasts and live videos for artists; Nyeusi Print Shop, which offers print services not only to artists but to the public for any type of printing needs; and 913 Productions, which offers video services combining graphics, animation, music, and photography. In addition, Nyeusi Gallery is the place to go for paint parties. A stellar event was a paint and sip party hosted by Lifetime TV’s Ms. Juicy, star of “Little Women Atlanta.” And let us not forget chess classes for kids, taught by Green who has been playing chess since the age of four. More events are in the planning stages. Check out the Nyeusi Gallery website for all the special programs in February for Black History Month: poetry slams, mimosas and nude life drawing classes, a speed date paint and sip party, Nyeusi quiz show, and an artist series featuring Michelle Green and Michele Hairston. February is also American Heart Month and Nyeusi Gallery is working on some special activities in conjunction with this event.

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Green is totally committed to giving voice and presence to artists of color in our area with names such as Brian King Prolific Hickman, Michele Hairston, Bethany Nicholle, Larry Lenzz Washington, Donnie Lyons, Kwatei, Paul Hood, Stephanie Lewis, and more. Michelle Green and Nyeusi gallery can both be reached via Facebook NyeusiGallery. Also, special services offered by Green and Nyeusi can be found on websites www.913productions. com and www.nyeusiprint.com. 7

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Artist Michelle Green

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A pair of teenage sweethearts say “be mine” in their golden years Story By Randy Gross

rgross@harrisburgmagazine.com

Hug me. U R Cute. I Luv You. Grade schoolers have long looked forward to exchanging cards with messages like that on February 14th. But when Bill Trousdale and Rosie Haines first met, he was in his freshman year of college, and she was a junior in High School. Not only were they a tad too old for “candy heart” greetings, but their abbreviated romance – just nine months – barely gave them time to get to know each other. As writer Allen Saunders famously said, “life is what happens to us while we are making other plans,” and though fate would take its good old time, there were plans in the making for both Bill and Rosie that neither of them could have fully imagined when they parted ways in 1970.

guessed it, to the Dallas suburbs. Rosie, in her own words “not a very good student, and kind of boy crazy,” promptly started 9th grade at Richardson High School. The two teens’ paths were about to converge, and serving as a conduit to that convergence was Peggy Haines, one of Bill’s classmates, who was often a chauffeur for her younger sister. “Her sister went to Plano,” remembers Bill, “and I just happened to notice this good-looking brunette taking her to school. So, I had to ask Peggy, ‘who is that gal?’”

The dating years (or, rather, months)

Less than a month after Peggy’s introduction, Bill and Rosie (then a high-school junior) would begin dating, and for nine Different roots, converging roads months the couple did everything together: taking Rosie’s niece, Fairy tale romances have a common opening, and Bill and Rosie’s Leah, to the zoo; watching planes take off and land at Love Field; story begins similarly. Once upon a time … There was a gregarious young man born in Philadelphia, whose watching “South Pacific” and “The Magnificent Seven” at the family uprooted him to Lancaster, Ohio, when he was in the first grade. local drive-in; double-dating (while wearing matching polyester golf shirts) at Six Flags Over Texas; even attending the spring His name was William B. Trousdale. Studious Richardson High School Dance. and “the kind of person who embraces other And Rosie wasn’t the only one who enjoyed people,” Bill would graduate high school in “When I came back my second Bill’s company. 1969 and enroll at the University of Plano, a year to college, there were a “Her parents kind of took me in like a longsmall liberal arts college in the Dallas suburbs. lost son,” says Bill. “We would go to church, I Rosemary Haines, meanwhile, was born couple of overtures that I made would come over for dinner, I would borrow in Ames, Iowa, and at the tender age of six … and I think a couple times her dad’s car and take Rosie to the park. It months moved with her family to Albuquerque, was as if we were an extended family.” she was washing her hair.” New Mexico. Fifteen formative years later (and In fact, Bill was so taken with Rosie and her two years before Bill Trousdale’s enrollment at — Bill Trousdale family that he recalls writing a letter home to Plano) Rosie’s parents would move again – you 36 HARRISBURG MAGAZINE FEBRUARY 2022

Bill's senior picture

Rosie's senior picture

his parents, informing them with tongue planted firmly in cheek (while referring to a popular movie at the time, “Guess Who’s Coming for Dinner”), “oh gee, mom, dad, I really met a nice girl down here and you’d really like her parents. They are Methodists, Republican … and white.” Like most people when they’re young and in love, Bill and Rosie didn’t want to be separated once school had ended for the year. Explains Bill, “we were talking about her coming and visiting me [in Lancaster, Ohio] during the summer … and my parents didn’t say ‘yay,’ and they didn’t say ‘nay.’” But, of course, Bill’s parents weren’t the only ones with a say in the matter. “My dad was like ‘No,’” remembers Rosie, “‘You’re only 17!’”

Separate lives & careers Summer loving, had me a blast Summer loving, happened so fast, I met a girl, crazy for me, Met a boy, cute as can beCue SFX: record screech. Better yet, toss that vinyl soundtrack to the movie “Grease” right out the window. Bill and Rosie’s nine-month romance didn’t extend into the summer of 1970. It didn’t go from summer days drifting away … to summer (or even fall) nights. Yes, Bill returned to the University of Plano campus for his fall semester. And Rosie returned to Richardson high for her senior year. But a three-month absence didn’t make hearts grow fonder – at least not in Rosie’s case. “When I came back my second year to college, there were a couple of overtures that I made about getting back with Rosie,” recalls Bill, “and I think a couple times she was washing her hair.” “I had a lot of hair in those days,” muses Rosie. Washing Bill out of her hair didn’t mean she wasn’t still willing to be friends with him. It was more a matter of moving on. In fact, she had started dating – and soon would be deciding to marry – a young man named Billy Redden. “A week before my wedding, he [Bill Trousdale] asked me to go to a concert with him,” says Rosie, “and I said ‘sure, we’re friends.’ And my mom said ‘you’re gonna do what? Absolutely not!’” She adds, with a smile, “I think it was his last plan to get me away.” Defeated, but only romantically, Bill Trousdale decided to continue his studies at Susquehanna University, transferring to the Selinsgrove, PA school in 1971. Ironically, Billy Redden’s family was rooted in the Keystone State, and Rosie soon See Teenage Sweethearts on Page 38

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Teenage Sweethearts , continued from Page 37

Rosie, wearing her engagement necklace

found herself moving to Delaware County. Trousdale would eventually graduate and embark on a career in radio “in North Jersey, then upstate New York, and then Lancaster, PA, and then York, and then Harrisburg, and then York,” he outlines. Meanwhile, Rosie Redden would begin running a restaurant with husband Billy, something they would do together for roughly four decades. Bill Trousdale would meet his wife, Cynthia Anne Houck, in Lancaster, and they would marry in 1977, inheriting a stepdaughter (Jamie) and then having one of his own (Ashleigh). Meanwhile, Rosie and Billy Redden were raising three children of their own. “So,” says Bill Trousdale, “while she was in Delaware County being married to Billy, I was in Lancaster married to Cindy.” Small world, eh? Even so, “we were never in contact for 47 years,” says Rosie. “And then

“For about 4 or 5 days, all we did was correspond through Facebook Messenger … all night long, we never slept, we were just on Messenger.” — Rosie Trousdale one day, he just friended me on Facebook, and I didn’t accept his friendship because my husband was kind of jealous of him, because he would send us Christmas cards the first few years we were married, and he was like ‘tell him to stop that!’”

Stars aligning (again) Sadly, Billy Redden passed away in 2011; and Cindy Trousdale also passed, in 2016. “I was ready to just be there for my kids and not worry about a thing,” Rosie remembers telling herself, “‘I’m fine, I don’t need a man.’” But, with the passage of time, her tune changed to “I might have room for another man in my heart.” She decided to leave it to fate. Or, in her words, “give it to God.” Bill Trousdale, on the other hand, still had a bit of the grade schooler in him – or, some might say, the heart of a poet. Recalls Rosie, who was living in Maui at the time and planning a visit to see her son in Delaware, “he [Bill] Facebook messaged me and said, ‘it would be thrilling to see you.’ And I said, ‘that’s a good idea, yeah, it would be nice to see an old friend.’” At that point, things began to progress quickly. Continues Rosie, “I was at my son’s house and for about 4 or 5 days all we did was correspond through Facebook Messenger … all night long, we never slept, we were just on Messenger. And then he [Bill] said ‘if you’d be so inclined to 38 HARRISBURG MAGAZINE FEBRUARY 2022

Bill and Rosie (left) circa 1969

call me, here is my phone number.’” Once Rosie connected with Bill on the phone and heard his dulcet DJ tones, she began to truly “reconnect.” “It was like, ‘oh my gosh … now I really remember him,” she gushes. “And then he started saying things like ‘it might rain a little bit today, but the sun will come out when I see you.’” The wheels thus set in motion, the couple decided to meet at a spot convenient for both of them – the clock in Gap – and then, while attending church for the first time together, it was an immediate case of kismet. First, there was the playing of the hymn (Rosie’s favorite) “Good Good Father.” Then, the sermon, which was on 1 Corinthians 13, the so-called “love chapter”; which was soon followed by an unexpected prayer request. Rosie remembers being a bit shocked when Bill raised his hand and exclaimed “I haven’t seen this woman for 47 years, and we’re together today, and the first place we came was the church.” The entire congregation ended up praying for their relationship. Muses Bill, “I figured it wouldn’t hurt!” After that first day spent together, Rosie stepped off her “emotional rollercoaster ride” of a trip to say to her mother-in-law: “I was just with the man I’m going to spend the rest of my life with, and I don’t know what to do.” With the stars properly aligned, not only did Rosie and Bill know what to do, but they didn’t waste any time. Rosie moved back to Pennsylvania in September of 2017, and 11 months later they were married. No engagement (though they did exchange Polynesian unity necklaces); and no big preplanned event (instead, upon learning that family would be visiting in the summer, rushing to plan an August wedding). “Here was some crazy broad,” jokes Bill, “that was willing to just ship everything that she was doing over in Maui and come over here … gosh, that kinda made me feel pretty good.”

Happiness as eternal valentines Bill and Rosie, current residents of Susquehanna Township, have a love for one another that’s not only endured and resurfaced, but grown stronger than ever. With Valentine’s Day approaching, their messages for each other may not be able to fit on a tiny candy heart, but they are nonetheless striking. “He makes me smile and makes me laugh every day,” says Rosie about her partner of 3 years. “And he really does let me know he loves me … it’s just obvious the way he treats me.” “One of the things we do all year long, is we go out to yard sales,” Bill says, full-throatedly. “And one of the things that’s fun about that, is we are doing this together. There’s joy, there’s happiness in sharing our time together. So, it’s sort of like Christmas all the time, because we’re going out and we’re finding presents for each other. It is a joy. So, I find joy through her, and not just on the 14th of February. When we’re out there it’s kind of like celebrating Christmas every day.” 7

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Cupid’s arrows are sure to draw blood with these suggestions Story By Randy Gross, Paul Hood, & Kevyn Knox

ovie-goers love films about love. Ask anyone to choose a favorite romantic movie and they’ll likely gush about the first time they saw classics like “It Happened One Night” or “The Philadelphia Story,” though younger folks might prefer “The Notebook” or even “The Shape of Water.” The point is, there has never been a shortage of so-called “date night” films, movies that are perfect kindlers of all-things love, and therefore great choices for Valentine’s Day viewing. But what if you’re in the mood for a non-traditional flick for February? Maybe a movie about love or lovers gone wrong, couples who bicker or even battle and never get around to kissing and making up? Perhaps even a sordid tale or two of deception, obsession, or deceit all operating under a veil of what only appears to be a romantic entanglement. To please the cinematic palates of those who prefer something a little (or a lot) different for Valentine’s Day 2022, Harrisburg Magazine has once again assembled its panel of Harrisburg-area film buffs – Paul Hood, Kevyn Knox, and your friendly neighborhood Editor – to cast out the old, stale notions of conventional romantic films, and replace them with the following unconventional suggestions for sharing with someone you love (or love to hate).

Paul Hood’s Choices: FATAL ATTRACTION (1987) You know love is real when something that occurred in the film becomes a verb: “so, I hear you’re involved with a bunny boiler?” Yes, the term “bunny boiler” has become synonymous with unrequited romance that drives a man/woman over the top with obsession. And who do we have to thank for this? You guessed it: Glenn Close and Michael Douglas for their convincing performances in this popular thriller. This steamy romp is sure to enliven your Valentine’s Day as it offers all the ups and downs of a one-night stand turned manipulative and deadly. Close and Douglas shine in this classic directed by Adrian Lyne, a master storyteller and auteur of the lovegone-wrong-but-righting-itself-somehow-someway type of drama. Where to watch: Hulu. 40 HARRISBURG MAGAZINE FEBRUARY 2022

INDECENT PROPOSAL (1993) Woody Harrelson, Demi Moore, and Robert Redford star in another Adrian Lyne “what if this happened?” type of yarn that may have you wondering where your relationship or marriage stands. The story is centered around a young couple, David and Diana Murphy (Harrelson and Moore), struggling to make ends meet when one night they are approached by a dashing billionaire known as John (Redford) who offers the couple 1 million dollars to have one night with Diana. The couple, in disbelief by the offer and reeling from their financial debt, decides “how bad can it be?,” and we find out how conflicting and awful their decision is when John’s prowess and wealth shakes up David and Diana’s once strong connection to one another. Lyne’s sleek direction, along with beautiful performances (especially from Harrelson) offer up a tale of love and sacrifice in a story with highly serrated edges and conflict that’ll have you reassessing your relationship in ways you’ve never imagined. Where to watch: Hulu. NORTH BY NORTHWEST (1959) Mistaken for a government agent? Check. Go on the run for your life across the Midwest? Check. Fall for a woman you soon become suspicious of? Check. Starring Cary Grant, Eva Marie Saint, and James Mason this suspense thriller moves along like a rushed affair with discoveries that elicit side eye glances and suspense. It’s Hitchcock at his finest, a Planes, Trains, and Love story with a punch and Cary Grant’s most humorous role (in this writer’s opinion). Love and laughs, adventure and mystery from the master himself. Where to watch: HBO Max. THROW MOMMA FROM THE TRAIN (1987) When a bitter ex-husband wants his ex-wife dead and a fledgling author wants his mother offed as well, the question is “who can do it first?” “Throw Momma from the Train” is a dark comedy that’s perfect for jilted lovers - or rather, lovers on the brink considering a nice Amtrak ride with a bit of malice in the quiet car. Danny DeVito (who also directed the 80’s hit) and Billy Crystal star in this over-thetop dark comedy that shows the other side of strong feelings toward a loved one when there’s a lot at stake. Where to watch: Pluto or Tubi.

Kevyn Knox’s Choices:

Randy Gross’s Choices:

CASABLANCA (1942) This Humphrey Bogart/Ingrid Bergman classic is often included not only on the greatest films of all-time lists but also on the greatest love stories of all-time. But is it really that romantic? Sure, Rick and Ilsa once loved each other, which is a hard thing to do when you are surrounded by such horrors as what was going on around them in the throes of World War II. Sure, their romance is rekindled years later when they meet up again in the titular Moroccan city. Sure, the two star-crossed lovers are mad about each other – even though Ilsa is supposedly happily married to Victor Laszlo, leader of the resistance. But in the end, Bogie’s Rick forces Bergman’s Ilsa to get on that plane and go with her husband. Not because he no longer loved her (because he most certainly did) but because it was the right thing to do. Is this romantic? I suppose in a way it could be, but it really isn’t. The romantic ending would have been for Rick and Ilsa to get on that plane and fly off into the sunset. Instead, Bogie walks into the proverbial sunset with Claude Rains’ Louis. Now maybe that’s the romance we didn’t know we needed. Where to watch: HBO Max or Amazon Prime Video.

WAR OF THE ROSES (1989) The tagline for this Danny DeVito-directed dark comedy pretty much says it all: “Once in a lifetime comes a motion picture that makes you feel like falling in love all over again. This is not that movie.” Kathleeen Turner and Michael Douglas are perfectly cast as a couple who not only fall out of love but engage in a no-holds-barred battle to see who will remain in their house. The dialogue by screenwriter Michael Leeson is bitingly hilarious in exchanges like this: Oliver Rose: “I think you owe me a solid reason. I worked my ass off for you and the kids to have a nice life and you owe me a reason that makes sense. I want to hear it.” Barbara Rose: “Because. When I watch you eat. When I see you asleep. When I look at you lately, I just want to smash your face in.” Where to watch: Vudu or Redbox.

SECRETARY (2002) A film about a reluctant sadist and a methodical masochist falling in love is not the type of movie one might see on The Hallmark Channel around Valentine’s Day, but this James Spader/Maggie Gyllenhaal vehicle is a hundred times better - and a hundred times more romantic than anything you would ever see on the aforementioned TV channel. Naysayers be damned. Love, no matter how it is expressed between two adults, as long as it is consensual, and no matter how kinky it may well be, is the way it should be done. These two probably make a more stable and loving couple than most of the pretty people who get together on The Hallmark Channel. Where to watch: Amazon Prime Video or Tubi. SINGLE WHITE FEMALE (1992) When I told my wife that I was including this film in this article, a film about one woman’s psychotic obsession with another, she said that no one in their right mind has ever considered this a romantic movie in any way whatsoever. I disagree, however. Sure, maybe Bridget Fonda’s character didn’t find it all that romantic to be stalked and nearly killed, but Jennifer Jason Leigh’s stalker was definitely romantic. I mean she loved her so much that she wanted to kill her and become her, taking over her life. Love doesn’t get much deeper than that. Am I right? You’re not buying this, are you? Oh well. Let’s move on. Where to watch: Amazon Prime Video or Vudu. SAY ANYTHING (1989) At first glance, this rom com is the story of two young people in love. But when you look deeper (and you don’t really have to look all that deeply) you see a movie where John Cusack’s Lloyd Dobler is a stalker, whose obsession with Ione Skye’s Diane leads him to nearly destroy the bright future that was planned for her. This quite cringe-worthy tableau played out in many an 80’s rom com. From “Pretty in Pink” to “The Breakfast Club” to “Sixteen Candles” (the latter two of which actually include scenes of sexual assault – done for laughs) when we look back on these once iconic teen films, we are left with a decidedly unromantic taste in our collective mouths. “Say Anything” is no different. The last thing Diane needs is the creepy slacker-stalker Lloyd booming Peter Gabriel from his boom box outside her window. Not cool dude. Not cool at all. Where to watch: Hulu, HBO Max, or Disney+.

VERTIGO (1958) Sure, Alfred Hitchcock was a master of suspense, but he also was a master of romantic obsession, manipulation, and fear, as evidenced in this masterwork about an ex-police detective (Jimmy Stewart) who is hired to prevent an old friend’s hauntingly-beautiful – and some may say “haunted” - wife (Kim Novak) from committing suicide. Oh, and before we forget, Stewart’s character has an intense fear of heights (hence, the movie’s title). Psychological tension at its best, and largely without any of the brief moments of humor that were common in other Hitchcock flicks. Where to watch: Vudu, Redbox, or Roku. CAMILLE CLAUDEL (1988) There have been other movies about female artists who end up promoting a significant other’s work, to the detriment of their own career (think 2002’s “Frida” about the relationship between Frida Kahlo and Diego Rivera), but no one has captured the exasperation and desperation of her character like Isabelle Adjani did with 19th-century sculptor Camille Claudel – who ends up sacrificing everything, including her mental health, while lending her own talents to pieces crafted by the better-known sculptor Auguste Rodin (Gerard Depardieu). An amazing performance by Adjani for which she was nominated (but deserved to win) an Oscar. Where to watch: Amazon Prime Video or Vudu. THE FLY (1986) Stand by your man Give him two arms to cling to … Nope, director David Cronenberg’s visually stunning (or should I say, disturbing) sci-fi classic is not a musical, but lyrics from the Tammy Wynette hit are, in some strange sense, applicable. After all, journalist Veronica Quaife (Geena Davis) certainly ends up standing by eccentric scientist Seth Brundle (Jeff Goldblum) after his experiment with teleportation transforms him into a monstrous, sugar-craving creature soon to be known as Brundlefly. And what’s that? Veronica is carrying Brundlefly’s baby? It was that plot twist (or perhaps all the vomiting of digestive enzymes?) that may have prompted Vincent Price, star of the original 1958 film, to say “it went a little too far.” Where to watch: Tubi. 7

“When I watch you eat. When I see you asleep. When I look at you lately, I just want to smash your face in.” - Barbara Rose (Kathleen Turner) HARRISBURG MAGAZINE FEBRUARY 2022 41

Make Valentine’s Day memories from the comforts of home By Jessica Paholsky

ove is in the air this month. Whether you celebrate Valentine’s Day with your sweetie, gals, a furry friend, or if you take the day to indulge in self-care, let’s not forget that love is a journey—learning more about yourself and the other person over months, years, decades. For couples, there’s no one better to experience the world with than the one you love. From romantic getaways and a honeymoon to the tradition of family vacations, every long-term relationship seems to have elements of travel involved. But Valentine’s Day looks a little less traditional this year. As restrictions on travel continue and the holiday falls on a Monday, how can you possibly show your other half they are the light of your world? How can you make memories from the comfort of your (or their) home and still experience the allure of travel? Once Upon a Pesto. No, I’m not reciting a fairy tale. I want to share eight unique Valentine’s Day ideas for you and whomever you’ll be spending the holiday with. Each idea stems from my food and travel content on onceuponapesto.com. I created Once Upon a Pesto in 2016 with the mission to teach others about the many foods and cultures around the world. To shed light on the internationality of pesto—a sauce that isn’t limited to just basil and pine nuts. Pesto comes from the Italian verb that means “to crush” or “to grind.” That means pesto is a process, not specific ingredients. You can make pesto with nearly any ingredient by simply blending it with a few other ingredients in a food processor or blender. Then, you can use each pesto in a variety of dishes, from breakfast and drinks to dinner and desserts. Once Upon a Pesto offers all of that (40 different pesto recipes, to be exact), plus ways to use each pesto, cultural stories, fascinating history, and fun food facts. Here are eight ways you can use Once Upon a Pesto to craft your own romantic food journey this Valentine’s Day: 1. Treat yourself to breakfast in bed. Like you, I never thought of using pesto with breakfast until I discovered that pesto isn’t married to pasta. If you’re up on the latest TikTok food trends, you know about pesto eggs. Beyond eggs, pesto goes perfectly with other breakfast or brunch dishes, too. On onceuponapesto.com, I share breakfast ideas ranging from sweet to savory, inspired 42 HARRISBURG MAGAZINE FEBRUARY 2022

by different countries around the world. You can enjoy one or all of them while lying in your own bed. Here are a few: - Bacon Monkey Bread made with Maple Syrup Pesto, inspired by Canada - Spanish Tortilla (similar to a frittata) made with Red Cabbage Pesto, inspired by Spain - Oatmeal Bars made with Cherry Pesto, inspired by Russia - Plantain Bread made with Yam Pesto, inspired by Nigeria 2. Enjoy a passport-free staycation. Having traveled a good bit during college and as part of my early professional career, I’ve discovered both the pros and cons of exploring the world. While there is so much to take in and learn while seeing other countries, traveling can be exhausting. As technology advances and the global pandemic inspired new ways of experiencing other places (like virtual museum tours), it’s easier than ever to book a staycation. Once Upon a Pesto is just one resource. On onceuponapesto. com, I provide 40 different places from which to choose—choose one or choose many. If you and your boo have always wanted to tour Europe, head over to the Europe section of my website, and there you’ll find 10 countries to explore, taste, and learn more about. 3. Get a taste of the City of Love with a French-inspired pesto. If you’re like me, country-hopping sounds cool, but it’s more rewarding to delve into one country and get to know it really well. That’s exactly what I did during my four-month study abroad in Italy. While my classmates traveled to Prague, Barcelona, London, you name it, I boarded trains and planes to discover all 20 regions of Italy. And if there’s one place to delve into on Valentine’s Day, it’s the City of Love— Paris. One of the 40 countries I highlight on onceuponapesto.com is France. Put your beret on and blend a batch of Broccoli Pesto to use in traditional French dishes like crêpes. Or find out if French toast is really from France. Either way, you and your date can savor all this stylish European gem has to offer in only a few steps between your kitchen and dining room. 4. Go classic with dinner and a movie. Once Upon a Pesto is something I do on the side. I’m a full-time video marketing coordinator at Milton Hershey School. And although my education and professional career has been video-focused, watching movies is something I’ve only more recently gotten into. If I had to choose one genre as my go-to, it would probably be romance or romcoms. This Valentine’s Day, you and your date can pair a pesto featured on onceuponapesto. com with a romance movie set in the same location as from which the pesto was inspired. Here are a handful of options for you: See Once Upon a Pesto on Page 44 HARRISBURG MAGAZINE FEBRUARY 2022 43

Once Upon a Pesto, continued from Page 43

comes together. If you’re in a serious relationship, why not create a bucket list together? It’s probably less daunting than going in on a joint bank account, right? Once Upon a Pesto is the perfect low-risk, lowcost way to craft and execute a bucket list together. You’re not committing to paying hundreds of dollars for international flights or pricey hotels. The adventure is yours to make and among the six continents to explore on onceuponapesto.com, your couples bucket list can take you far and wide. If snorkeling the Great Barrier Reef in Australia makes it to the top of your bucket list, my Australian-inspired Macadamia Pesto would be the most natural way to celebrate turning dreams into reality. 7. Savor four courses (and pestos) inspired by four different countries. While I was developing and testing the recipes for Once Upon a Pesto, my goal was to make a collection of dishes that could satisfy all palettes and preferences. Some pesto recipes are dairy-free, some nut-free. Some dishes are easy as “one, two, three,” while others take a bit more culinary prowess. There are breakfast dishes, snacks, salads, entrees, side dishes, gluten-free options, vegan ideas, drinks, and desserts. Every individual’s onceuponapesto. com experience is personal, customizable, and always rewarding. If you and your Valentine’s Day date want to get fancy with a four-course meal, each made using a different pesto, Once Upon a Pesto is there to help. Here’s a sample menu I put together: - First course: Feta Dip made with Caper Pesto, inspired by Cyprus - Second course: Kale Salad made with Pecan Pesto, inspired by the Midwest United States - Third course: Mac ‘N Cheese made with Olive Pesto, inspired by Egypt - Fourth course: Tapioca Pudding made with Lemon Pesto, inspired by Myanmar - Green Bean Pesto, inspired by New York with “When Harry Met Sally,” which is set in Brooklyn and Manhattan - Zucchini Pesto, inspired by Italy with “Under the Tuscan Sun” or “Romeo and Juliet” - Any Asian-inspired pesto recipe, with “Crazy Rich Asians” - Pickle Pesto, inspired by Fiji with “A Summer to Remember,” which is set in Fiji 5. Learn more about each other’s heritage and cook a cultural dish together. I’m not a love expert, but one of the keys to a successful relationship is getting to truly know the other person. This can involve learning more about your significant other’s culture. Thanks to DNA testing products like 23andMe, many people are uncovering more information about their family history and heritage. This means you can take those findings and get to know more about the countries linked in your ancestry. So, let’s say your Valentine’s Day date is part Puerto Rican. You can make this holiday memorable by using the recipe for Passion Fruit Pesto on the Puerto Rico page of onceuponapesto.com to make something delicious for the two of you to enjoy. This sets the stage for a conversation about each other’s cultural traditions and values. 6. Create a couples bucket list, and then launch it with a meal. Everyone has their own approach when it comes to making a bucket list. Life circumstances and personal goals influence when and how it 44 HARRISBURG MAGAZINE FEBRUARY 2022

8. Host a food and culture trivia night. Whether you watch Jeopardy or peruse trivia quizzes on Buzzfeed, we all love the challenge of trivia. Throughout every page on onceuponapesto.com, I’ve sourced the most fascinating food and culture tidbits that apply to each of the 40 countries or cultures highlighted on the website. For instance, when you go to the Brazil page, you’ll learn how pineapple plays a significant role in this South American nation, what traditional Brazilian steakhouses are really like, and how to make the dessert called pudim. When you look at the sum of these global tidbits, you have one adventurous night of trivia at your fingertips. The best part is that you can pair the fun with the food and recipes you’ll also find throughout the Once Upon a Pesto experience. There you have it—a food-and-travel-based list of ideas to celebrate Valentine’s Day this year while staying safe at home. But don’t limit these ideas to one day when there are 364 other days to explore the food and culture around the globe. Once Upon a Pesto can take you, your significant other, your friends, and your family on international experiences any time of the year—whenever someone catches the “travel bug.” 7 Jessica Paholsky is the creator of Once Upon a Pesto. As a video marketing coordinator at the Milton Hershey School and having traveled to more than a dozen different countries, she is a storyteller and visual creative who is passionate about having a global perspective.

One word: Fastnachts! Story and Photos By Dimitri John Diekewicz

olidays throughout the calendar year present unique features and traditions that distinctly symbolize the season and create the ambiance that distinguish them from one another. Sights, sounds, colors, and culinary treats are all hallmarks of the season that combine to create a memorable celebration. Christmas cookies, Halloween Candy, Easter Eggs, and grilled franks for the 4th of July are some examples of the edible expressions which capture and enhance the moment as perfectly as decorations but are much more pleasing to the palate. These flavorful ingredients of annual festivities are always eagerly anticipated by many as that special date draws near. One celebratory snack that holds a prominent place on Pennsylvania’s holiday favorite hit list for Shrove Tuesday aka Fat Tuesday (the last day of Mardi Gras) is a pastry that proudly calls the Keystone State home. For many people in the mid-state, the day is known by the name bestowed on this delectable doughy delight. Welcome to Fastnacht Day. Pronounced Fahs-Nahkt, Fastnacht is a German term which joins the words ‘fast’ meaning ‘to fast’ and ‘nacht’ which means ‘night.’ This designates Fat Tuesday as an occasion of ingested leniency before the start of the Lenten fasting period which begins on Ash Wednesday. This is when followers of some Christian denominations would willingly abstain from eating a favorite food. This time of abstinence continues until Easter and is an annual custom practiced by many Christians to this day. The creation of Fastnachts is distinctly part of the Pennsylvania Dutch culture and the history of this culinary specialty can be traced back to Germany. Margie Peters, owner of Mary Jane’s Bake Shop at Roots Country Market for 20 years explains, “People were using up the fat (lard) or shortening and sugar before Lent by making dough and frying it. After the dough was rolled, they were cut in all shapes just to use it up and they were sharing them with neighbors.” This practice was

brought to America, primarily Lebanon, Berks and Lancaster County where German immigrants established a large community. For years the Fastnacht would be prepared as a square, triangle, or numerous other patterns, however it was the round donut shape that ultimately won favor and became the standard. The classic donut appearance, traditionally without a hole, is the familiar form of a Fastnacht and has led to some confusion which begs the question, “Does a donut a Fastnacht make?” Naomi Byers of Byers Butterflake Bakery in Leola, Pa. (with market locations in Manheim, York and Hanover) where they have been preparing Fastnachts in the family-owned business since 1955, offers insight to this culinary query: “A Fastnacht is a donut, but ingredients and the cooking process determines what is a donut. (Chuckles) A donut is deep fried, and potatoes are an ingredient of a fastnacht. Years ago, we used mashed potatoes made from scratch in the mix, but now we use potato flakes which makes the finished Fastnacht flakier, but more dense. This consistency is the key quality.” Though it is a traditional food favorite with essential features, the plain Fastnacht has evolved over the years. Margie offers, “they are made from scratch with potatoes in the dough and deep fried, but you can tweak it for your customers. Plain is the traditional Fastnacht with no sugar on top and many older customers still slice them in half lengthwise and add some king syrup. We have powdered, sugared, and also glazed which customers prefer and is our biggest seller.” As popularity of these delicious delicacies continues to grow, most producers now offer a variety of these Dutch delicacies with different toppings to please any palate. Naomi shares, “we sell plain, confectionary sugar, cinnamon sugar and granulated sugar and about ninety percent of our sales are the confectionary sugared.” See Fastnachts on Page 46 HARRISBURG MAGAZINE FEBRUARY 2022 45

Fastnachts, continued from Page 45

Sugary toppings have proven to be popular with patrons, but are Fastnachts offered with an assortment of different fillings? Margie reveals, “Our Fastnachts are a patch with no hole and if someone asks for a cream-filled Fastnacht my reply is ‘you mean a homemade donut with cream’ and gladly serve them one. Fastnachts can have some additions to the outside, but nothing inside.” As the popularity of Fastnachts continues to grow, the demand must be met with greater output. Maple Donuts in York is the largest producer of Fastnachts, more than any other bakery, church, or fund raiser organization on the East coast. Charlie Burnside, President of Maple Donuts, shares some facts and figures: “Since 1946, we’ve been producing them and Fastnacht Day is our biggest day for retail donut sales. We start making them on Sunday and continue on Monday and Tuesday of that week. We use potato flour in our dough, and we produce 1200 dozen per hour.” The large volumes also come in different varieties. Charlie continues, “Our retail locations produce uncoated (plain), granulated sugar topped, 6X powdered sugar topped, and glazed. We try to satisfy everyone’s favorite version and they’re all popular sellers.” One thing is quickly learned about the Fastnacht. Whichever variety of these Pennsylvania pastries you choose, they all succeed in bringing a smile to your face after the first bite. If there’s any doubt, try one and you’ll quickly become a believer! 46 HARRISBURG MAGAZINE FEBRUARY 2022

Here are some delicious destinations for fabulous Fastnachts: • Byers Butterflake Bakery 44 West Main Street, Leola, PA 17450 (with locations on certain days in Manheim, York, and Hanover) 717-656-6803 • www.byersbakery.com • Mary Jane’s Bake Shop (Tuesdays at Roots Country Market) 705 Graystone Road, Manheim, PA 17545 717- 898-7811 • For hours check: www.rootsmarket.com • Maple Donuts 717-757-7826 • Several locations can be found at: www. mapledonuts.com • Anna Rose Bakery & Coffee Shop 100 North Second Street, Harrisburg, PA 17101 717-236-3149 • www.annarosebakery.com • Schenk’s Bakery 1061 North Mountain Road, Harrisburg, PA 17112 717-671-5133 • www.schenkscakes.com • The Pennsylvania Bakery 1713 Market Street Camp Hill, PA 17011 717-763-7755 • www.pabakery.com 7

SAY IT WITH

DINNER VALENTINE'S DAY • MONDAY 14 TH FEBRUARY

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