Harrisburg Magazine June 2024

IN THIS ISSUE ...

PRESIDENT/CEO

Darwin Oordt doordt@harrisburgmagazine.com

DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS

Darcy Oordt darcy@harrisburgmagazine.com

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

DIRECTOR OF DIGITAL MARKETING

Jennifer George jgeorge@harrisburgmagazine.com

SENIOR ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE

Jo Ann Shover jshover@harrisburgmagazine.com

ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE

Fred Hershey fhershey@harrisburgmagazine.com

GRAPHIC & LAYOUT DESIGNER

Danny Kilmer dkilmer@harrisburgmagazine.com

DISTRIBUTION MANAGER Richard Eppinger reppinger@harrisburgmagazine.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITER Samuel J. Rob

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER Kimberly L. Morris

Head, shoulders, knees & care for kids. the best &

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• Children’s Express Care

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• Children’s Specialty Services

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Plus, with access to UPMC Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh, which is ranked among the top 10 children’s hospitals in the country by U.S. News & World Report, we have even more resources available in our backyard.

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in Central Pa.

Summer means happy times and good sunshine. It means going to the beach, going to Disneyland, having fun.

– Brian Wilson

What better way is there to start out June than with a quote from “Mr. Summer” himself, Brian Wilson, the musical genius behind such iconic Beach Boys songs as “Fun, Fun, Fun.” After all, having a good time is what this issue is all about, from our special Fun Guide filled with loads of awesome summer entertainment options in Central Pennsylvania, to the delicious cheesy theme of our What’s Cooking section, be prepared for plenty of good vibrations throughout.

Someone who obviously has been having fun on the job is Erin Woods, owner and president of Ace Handyman Services in Harrisburg, who founded the company in 2004 and has been the inspiration behind Ace’s award-winning customer service for the past 20 years. To say she’s been successful

is an understatement, and that’s why she is our selected honoree for this month’s Entrepreneurial Spirit feature.

Looking for some fun do-it-yourself projects for your lawn and garden? Oh, c’mon, some of us actually do take pleasure in laboring in our backyard! Well, for those of you eager to beautify your outdoor spaces, but (hopefully) not work up too much of a sweat, be sure to read Imogene Gross’ “Summer Yard and Garden DIY Projects” – and then put on those work gloves!

Then, get ready to relive some happy Central PA memoires – and also make some new ones! – with Samuel J. Rob’s “Williams Grove: Centuries of Fun.” It’s simultaneously a quick jaunt through the Grove’s history as

both a family picnicking destination and a (now defunct) amusement park, and a salute to the Williams Grove Historical Steam Engine Association (WGHSEA), which will once again be hosting various exhibitions and events this summer.

Be sure to check out all our columns, covering everything from how to properly take care of hermit crabs (For the Love of Pets) to a listing of this season's local stage performances (Theatre Thoughts).

But, above all, try to have as much “Fun, Fun, Fun” as you possibly can this month (even if your daddy did, in fact, take your T-bird away!)

RG

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Summer Yard and Garden DIY Projects

Story by Imogene Gross, imogene@harrisburgmagazine.com

As the weather gets nicer, many of us spend more and more time outdoors, whether that be to maintain or simply enjoy our properties. The sunshine calls us out to spend time with friends and family – having a cookout or picnic, playing sports and outdoor games, gathering around a fire at night, or simply relaxing with music, drinks, and conversation, are only some of the examples of ways you might pass the time in your yard.

So, if you’re going to be making lots of memories there this summer, why not take a little time to make your space – whether you have a little postage stamp or a multi-acre sprawl - the best it can be? If you’re in the mood for a little something different, to make spending time outdoors that extra bit nicer, there are plenty of DIY projects you can take on this summer – for every budget and time investment.

If you enjoy gardening and making your space look pretty with ornamental and functional plants, consider the vessels into which you plant. Many of the easiest and cheapest outdoor DIY projects to help breathe new life into your outdoor space involve planters. You can turn old food containers, such as glass jars, into an army of planters, or look on Craigslist and Facebook Marketplace and creatively upcycle large items like old bathtubs or unused fountains into homes for plants.

Particularly if you don’t have much space, try to maximize your vertical area. That is, build up, not around. Utilize hanging basket planters or

build a trellis to add visual interest to your landscape. You can also construct vertical planters, to be hung from a wall or fence, out of weed barrier fabric, sewing rows of pockets that are perfect for holding herbs or other small plants. Window boxes are great for flowers, or herbs, as well.

If you like to grow fresh produce, you might take on the project of building raised garden beds. For a multifunctional twist on the idea, you can build a box to hold your hose and make the top into a box planter. If you’re feeling fancy, you can even make them into cold frame garden beds – like a mini greenhouse – by adding hinged glass panels that can cover your plants and keep them warm even in cold weather. To keep straight which plant is which, especially when they’re young and look similar, you might want to make garden markers out of whatever materials you have on hand.

Photos from stock

If you want to add extra flourish to the contents of your planters, and you have an appreciation for the whimsical, you might consider putting together a fairy garden – the idea being a miniature garden scene the perfect size for fairies. You can buy or make miniature fairies or gnomes, cottages, colorful mushrooms, and outdoor furniture to arrange in a pot alongside small plants like succulents, wildflowers, and moss. If you like the concept but not the aesthetic, it doesn’t have to be fairy-themed, either. The sky’s the limit – you can find or make miniatures of just about everything. You could even ditch the soil entirely and make something like a Zen garden.

For the more experienced and/or ambitious DIYer, there are a plethora of more advanced projects out there, although depending on when you start and how much time you can devote each week, be warned that some of these suggestions might not be ready for you to enjoy until next summer.

On the intermediate side, you could consider putting together a doghouse for your pooch to take shelter on rainy days, or birdhouses or feeders to earn

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the approval of the local fowl. A simple bench can make for a peaceful spot for pleasant views and contemplation, or a place to socialize with friends. And although it’s great to get along with your neighbors, a privacy screen or fence is a good way to safeguard the serenity of your space.

For a shady place to hang out during a summer’s day, you could construct a shaded deck, gazebo, or pergola. And for those summer nights, you could put together a fire table or fire ring to gather around and roast marshmallows. Building a new shed could offer not only new tool storage, but a hobby space, second office, or even a place for social gatherings. If you or someone in your household is a hardcore gardener, you might construct a potting bench, a worktop for small gardening tasks that also stores gardening supplies in one convenient place. If you like dramatic statements in your landscape, another big project is installing a water feature, such as a pond, fountain, or waterfall.

Hopefully, you’re getting excited for summer thinking about all the possibilities. Whatever space you’re working with – big or small, flat or sloped, secluded or open, shady or sunny, manicured or natural - what really matters is how you utilize it, and the memories you make. The way you arrange your yard, and the things you put in it, should reflect how you want to spend your time there. And whatever that may be, hopefully that vision is for a restful and enjoyable summer.

Erin Woods: Celebrating 20 Years as Central PA’s Handywoman

A

Q&A with the owner & president of Ace Handyman Services

Story

by

Randy Gross, rgross@harrisburgmagazine.com

Photos by Woven by Legacies Photography

Editor’s note: since 2004, Ace Handyman Services, located at 4219 Derry Street in Harrisburg, has been the epitome of “locally owned and independently operated” –a business with an unparalleled track record of outstanding customer service and success in a multitude of residential handyman and home improvement areas. It is for that reason that we have selected owner & president Erin Woods to be profiled this month.

RG: When you hear the words “Entrepreneurial Spirit,” what thoughts come to mind?

WOODS: Entrepreneurial Spirit, for me, means that I never stop expanding my skillset. It means freedom to live life the way I (and my family) desire. It means being resourceful repeatedly. It means shouldering heavy things and enjoying every lightened load. It means making a contribution and giving back. And it means exploring multiple avenues of income.

RG: Can you briefly outline your entrepreneurial history prior to starting Ace Handyman Services?

WOODS: It really started at a young age with the games I played to entertain myself. Playing ‘store’ was one of my favorites. My best friend’s parents owned

a business, and it gave me a glimpse into being your own boss. I could see that they worked hard but also enjoyed vacations at different properties they owned. In high school I knew I wanted to have my own business and potentially run it from home. I planned to become an architect but ended up going to school for design. By 27, I was working as a freelance Graphic Designer so that I could set my own schedule. At 31, I started this business with my dad. I also continue to work on other business ideas and sell my own artwork and products.

RG: As you just stated, you started Ace Handyman with your father. I was employed in a business venture with my late father once; and currently my daughter is working for me at the magazine. Both are experiences I will forever treasure. What kind of impact did working with your father have on you?

WOODS: To start, it gave us time to be together. My dad traveled for work a lot when I was young. The time we shared together in the business means everything to me. I’m grateful I got to

know him at a deeper level, especially as an adult. He gave me a runway for a great career. He helped me believe in myself and grow my self-confidence as the owner of this business.

RG: I see that your roots are in Pennsylvania. You were also educated in Pennsylvania, have worked various jobs in Pennsylvania, and are raising a family in the local area (with your husband and co-owner, Bill). How important is “staying local” to you, both personally and professionally?

WOODS: When I moved to Philadelphia in 1990 to attend Drexel, I couldn’t wait to get out of the area and planned to never look back. After 13 years in the city, the congestion and confinement by hard surfaces was wearing on me. I actually missed the greenery here. I had planned to move to the west coast but post 9/11 I felt the importance of being near my family. After being back here for 6 months my dad and I started working on the business. It turns out that I love it here. There is so much beauty between the river and the mountains and the change of seasons. Much like most will say,

I love the proximity to major cities, but also the quietude and simplicity of living here. It has been a great place to raise our son and I appreciate how peaceful it is.

RG: You have won our “Simply the Best” honors multiple times, and in 2019 were honored as one of “America’s Best Companies for Customer Service” by Newsweek. So, pleasing your customers is obviously a priority at Ace Handyman. What sets your customer service apart from other home repair businesses?

WOODS: I think it starts with our office team. During normal business hours you can call in and get a live person who will listen to the repair issues or improvement desires that you have. We still hear frequently that someone may have left many messages with other service providers and never received a return call. For most jobs under three days, we can give you an estimate right over the phone. We have a great scheduling system that will send ‘on my way’ notification when our Craftsman is headed to a job, including a photo. For most of our jobs, we schedule exact appointment times because we understand waiting around is inconvenient. We won’t take money upfront and disappear. Any

deposit required will follow all Pennsylvania Home Improvement Contractor requirements. We also follow up with a review request, giving clients a chance to compliment or complain so that we know where we need to make improvements. Being a part of the Ace Hardware family holds us to higher standards that we appreciate and aim to live up to. Any time we get a review that mentions ‘you can’t find companies like this anymore’ my heart is deeply satisfied because I know we did our ‘thing.’

RG: So, this month Ace Handyman Services is celebrating its 20th anniversary. Looking back, is there anything you would have done differently during those two decades? And, if you could choose an accomplishment you’re most proud of during those twenty years, what would it be?

WOODS: First of all, I can’t believe it’s 20 years! Especially since I had no idea that this would be the business that would ‘stick’ for me. I can’t say there would be one specific thing I would have done differently. I typically am a ‘no regrets’ person as I know everything is teaching me something and so I do my best to learn each time. We’ve had some Craftsmen that I think of, and wish were still with us. Hire

someone to do our marketing sooner instead of DIYing all these years? I wish I was less of an introvert! For me, the accomplishments include making it to our 20 year anniversary, getting to work with my husband, having the flexibility to pick our son up from school every day, winning Simply the Best and Readers’ Choice so many times, adding Lancaster & York to our territory, getting to be in the Top 5 in revenue in our franchise, getting to complete so many awesome jobs to help our clients, being a part of our employees contributing to their families, finding ways to give back, and being a part of the ACE Hardware family.

RG: Finally, what are your top priorities or goals for the next 20 years?

WOODS: First goal is to dig in with the professionals we are working with on our marketing! This past year has me crying ‘Uncle!’ Bill and I are both waiting to see what level of interest our son may have in the business in the next 10 years. Continue adding people to our team that understand our mission and provide outstanding service. Continue exploring passions and purpose in art, coaching other business owners, and in giving back.

Poetry Can Shape a Life

Sometimes our lives are so full, we don’t seem to have time to focus on the present. Instead, we look toward the future and concentrate on the things we have to do. As a remedy for our inattention, we’ve collectively turned to meditation and mindfulness, keystones of Buddhist practices. While I am certainly in agreement with those concepts and the need and value of being in the present, there is much to be said for reflection and looking back.

It is our ancestors who have shown us what is possible and leave it to us to carry those possibilities into the future. Taking a cue from Terrance Hayes’s book, Watch Your Language, I’ve thought about my literary ancestors, the poets who have influenced and help mold me as a poet and person. Five books have greatly influenced me.

Emily Dickinson

Like so many American poets, Dickinson was the first poet whose work I fell in love with. As a teenager whose

speaking voice prompted teasing from others and an assumption of a lack of intelligence, I gravitated to the written word. Her poem that begins with “Much Madness is divinest Sense” is still one of my favorite poems. It helped the shy kid that I was, realize that writing was the best way to express myself.

E.E. Cummings

During my college years, being young and a bit rebellious, I fell in love with Cummings, again like countless other poets, primarily due to his non-use of capital letters. That seemed to be such a defiant act. I wrote that way for quite a number of years. There are still poets who follow his lead. However, it is his romantic nature that still sustains me. See “[i carry your heart with me(i carry it in].”

Mary Oliver

Oliver is arguably the most famous and popular poet since Robert Frost and is a favorite of both poets and non-poets. American Primitive, her Pulitzer Prize winning collection, helped me to understand that nature poetry is not just a matter of marveling at the beauty of flowers, deer, and trees. I re-read “John Chapman” several times every year.

Claudia Rankine

Rankine’s Citizen: An American Lyric is arguably the most important book written in the 21st century. Her brutal honesty helped to shape my understanding that poetry can be written successfully in more than standard lines and verses. However, it’s been most influential in exploring the complexities of living in contemporary America. It’s informed some of my later poems.

Evie Shockley

Shockley, a Pulitzer Prize finalist in 2018, reminds me of the power of po-

etic form in the 21st century. Her book, the new black, uses forms such as the gigan to powerfully explore every aspect of life.

So now give it a try yourself. Whether you are a poet, writer, or someone who simply loves words, reflect on your journey from your first book as a child to the book you are currently reading or writing. Reflection is good for the soul.

Poet and teacher, Le Hinton is the author of seven poetry collections including, most recently, Elegies for an Empire (Iris G. Press, 2023). His work has been widely published and can be found in The Best American Poetry 2014, the Baltimore Review, the Skinny Poetry Journal, the Progressive Magazine, Little Patuxent Review, Pleiades, and elsewhere.

His poem “Epidemic” won the Baltimore Review’s 2013 Winter Writers Contest and in 2014 it was honored by The Pennsylvania Center for the Book. His poem, “Our Ballpark,” can be found outside Clipper Magazine Stadium in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, incorporated into Derek Parker’s sculpture Common Thread.

Target Date Funds –Are You Missing the Target?

It’s your first day at your new job, and HR hands you a stack of paperwork to sign. While signing up for healthcare and receiving your training manual, you have the daunting task of selecting your 401(k) investment allocation. Should you select an S&P 500 fund or a BlueChip fund? Oh, there’s a fund with your ideal retirement date. That’s an easy decision! While target-date investments sound like the ultimate retirement solution, promising simplicity and convenience, let’s examine the pros and cons of TargetDate Mutual Funds.

What Are Target Date Funds?

Target date funds (TDFs) are investment funds designed to simplify retirement savings. They typically hold a mix of stocks and bonds. In theory, the asset allocation gradually shifts from an aggressive strategy to a conservative strategy as you approach retirement. This adjustment, sometimes called a glide path, aims to reduce investment risk as investors near retirement.

The Appeal of Target Date Funds

• Simplicity – TDFs offer a hands-off approach to investing. You select a fund with a target retirement year closest to when you plan to retire, and the fund manager handles the rest.

• Automatic Rebalancing –

TDFs automatically adjust their asset allocation over time, sparing investors the need to manually rebalance their portfolios.

The Downside of Target Date Funds

• Limited

Customization

–

While the set-it-and-forget-it nature of TDFs appeals to many investors, it also means sacrificing control over your investment strategy. The fund’s predetermined asset allocation may not align with your risk tolerance or financial goals.

• One

Size Doesn’t Fit

All –TDFs are designed to be broad solutions for many investors. However, individual circumstances vary greatly. Factors like financial goals and other investments outside of the TDF can significantly impact whether the fund is suitable for you.

• Overemphasis on Bonds – As retirement approaches, TDFs typically increase their allocation to bonds, aiming for stability. However, this shift may lead to lower returns, particularly for younger investors with longer time horizons who could potentially benefit from a higher stock allocation.

While target date funds may be the convenient option for retirement saving, you may benefit from a more

customized approach. Before committing to a target date fund, carefully consider your financial goals, risk tolerance, and other investment options available to you. Consulting with a financial advisor can help ensure that your investment strategy aligns with your long-term objectives.

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

Please Don’t Buy a Hermit Crab

This summer, as millions of Americans head to the beach for swimming, seafood, and sun, there is a creature who will not be having fun. Shops will be stocked with hermit crabs donning shells painted like popular cartoon characters. Hundreds of them will be on display, stuffed into crowded cages with nowhere to roam. Children will beg for a hermit crab, proclaiming, “I will take good care of him! I PROMISE!”

Shop owners sell the non-native creatures as “easy to care for” pets. They don’t care that they were stolen from their natural habitat by the thousands, crammed in burlap sacks for weeks with no food or water, and shipped thousands of miles, while hundreds die along the way. They don’t think about how the cruel trade disrupts the balance of the ecosystem from which the crabs were taken. It’s about the bottom line. Stores sell crabs and overpriced accessories and send customers on their way with a living creature as a vacation souvenir.

Truthfully, hermit crabs are anything but a beginner pet. According to The Crab Street Journal, an online resource for hermit crab enthusiasts, hermit crabs are not a native species. Crabs are exotic pets, caught wild in the Caribbean or Indonesia and shipped to the US, where they may survive a year or two on average, most of them suffering due to

lack of appropriate living conditions and care. However, with proper care, hermit crabs can live 40 or more years in captivity. In the wild, they can live into their 30’s.

Dan Comoss and his wife Samantha Denius, Harrisburg hermit crab enthusiasts, have rescued or adopted and currently care for about 50 crabs in their home. They have a room full of pristine tanks where their crabs live in luxury, enjoying a life as close to their natural habitat as possible. The crabs have toys, things to climb on and hide in, and a buffet of fresh foods from which to graze. For each crab, Dan recommends a glass, ten-gallon tank with a lid, at least 6 inches of substrate (sand), heat and light sources, fresh water, ocean salt water, temperature and humidity gauges. The temperature must be between 75 degrees on the cooler side and 85 degrees on the warmer side of their substrate with 75-80% humidity. Like cats and dogs, crabs have their own personalities. They are smart, social, comical, and they need enrichment. A proper setup to keep a crab safe, healthy, and happy will cost around $200. Good care makes the difference between thriving and surviving.

So, before your next visit to the beach, resist the urge to buy a hermit crab. This is an opportunity to teach children that living creatures are not souvenirs or an impulse buy, but a long-term commitment that requires research and planning. If you decide that you would be a good family for a crab, there are hundreds available for adoption. Check out the Land Hermit Crab Owners Society at Lhcos.org. There, you can find adoptable crabs, learn everything you need to know about their care, and stock up on healthy hermit crab food and accessories from approved sellers.

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.

Interview with Steve Flemming, President of the Harrisburg Builders Association

Hi Steve! So nice to meet you! Tell us who you are and what you do.

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I’m Steve Fleming, president of the Builders Association of Metro Harrisburg, which is an extension of both the Pennsylvania Builders Association and the National Builders Association, with many regional entities all around the state. I’ve been the president for two years now and also own Biltbold Building Company,  D’Angelo Realty Group, and ReMax Pathway in New Cumberland.

Could you share with me your background?

Right out of high school I worked for a homebuilder and sold real estate, including resale and new construction homes. I earned my degree as a civil engineer and worked for 17 years in that field. I transitioned out of engineering and was working for a commercial development company when my wife and I decided to build a spec home to sell. We loved the process. The developer of our neighborhood passed away and there were still several lots available, so we bought those lots. I finished building the neighborhood. The process was familiar to

me because of my land development experience as a civil engineer. I joined the builder’s association shortly after I began building in 2016 and have loved my work the past eight years.

As a Realtor, I have so many clients who are ready to sell or buy, but they are waiting for the right home to come on the market. As you know, we are really lacking in inventory; those “right homes” aren’t popping up. Where do you see this market going?

The housing crisis of 2008 really impacted development. Developers were very active prior to 2008 but have just never rebounded fully. New construction drives resale. So if there aren’t new construction homes for your clients to move into, the homes they live in now won’t hit the market.Regulations have increased and now represent approximately $100k of every new home which made development more difficult and less profitable. So we really just haven’t been bringing the level of new home opportunities to the market like we once did.

What’s the biggest change you’ve seen in the past 10 years in the new construction market?

It has to make sense ultimately for someone to buy a new home, they have to be able to afford it. We used to have entry level new construction, then mid-level, and higher end. That entry level new construction has gone away. Just the cost of land and development has increased so much. People are building smaller, but it’s still costing more than that entry level buyer can afford, especially when interest rates resume normal levels.

How does the lack of new starter homes affect our housing market?

I think for a lot of people, they are continuing to rent. And that’s driving a really strong rental market. There is a lot of new construction in the rental market that wasn’t around before. On the resale front, people are staying in their homes longer and paying more for resale homes when they do come available. Ultimately, it’s impacting people’s ability to move here and decision to stay here.

How are higher interest rates impacting our local building market?

The current interest rate environment has really impacted the market. We talked about not having that first time buyer new construction home available anymore. What about rates going from, say, 4% to 7.5%? The upside of that is that people are investing in remodeling, so that market is really strong right now. Our HBA members who specialize in remodeling are very active and their businesses are going very well for them.

So, are interest rates the biggest factor in determining the scope of new construction?

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No. Interest rates are part of it.  The regulatory environments of municipalities plus state and federal government play a huge role. They oversee the process. There are probably 10x the requirements today than there were just 20 years ago. The work necessary to bring a development out of the ground is significantly greater than it once was. It’s a complicated problem to solve, but it’s worth working on.  It seems as though we are all interested in making homes affordable but that issue is at odds with many other objectives related to mandatory efficiency requirements, environmental and conservation initiatives and complex zoning and planning concepts.

How does HBA help with legislation?

We have a political action committee that runs alongside the HBA and we work with state and local legislators that contribute to the homebuilding industry. We were successful in overturning legislation a few years ago related to infrastructure taxing. Developers install infrastructure, like underground sewer, water lines and utility lines. Then the developers dedicate those lines to the utility provider. There was legislation in place to tax that infrastructure which ultimately would have been borne by the developers.  It had a very harmful impact on the industry. We worked very hard and ultimately overturned that legislation.

What has been the best part of being president of HBA?

I’ve had some incredible opportunities. I’ve gotten to know a lot of great people and made some great connections. I had the chance to testify in front of the state legislature and that

was pretty awesome. I’ve been president for two years now and we’ll turn it over to someone else next year. But yes, it’s been a great experience.

Eileen S. Voyles is a Realtor with Homesale Realty in Hershey, PA, 501 West Governor Road, Hershey, PA and the founder of HelloHersheyPA, a Pennsylvania Benefit Company that promotes commerce and happy living in Hershey PA and beyond. She can be reached at 717-533-6222 and 717508-4610, #hellohershey or eileenvoyles@ gmail.com.

All About Father's Day

The Creation of Father’s Day

Sonora Smart Dodd, daughter of an American Civil War veteran, was inspired by the nascent tradition of Mother’s Day as established by Anna Jarvis, as well as her own reverence for her father, a single parent following the death of her mother. She organized a local service at the Spokane, Washington YWCA, but it remained, initially, only a local observance. In the 1930s, she returned from college, and this time was successful at promoting the celebration at a national level. She was assisted by trade groups of manufacturers of gifts typically given to fathers, such as ties and tobacco pipes. In 1938, the Father’s Day Council was founded by the New York Associated Men’s Wear Retailers to further promote the new holiday.

At first, the American public was resistant to the adoption of the new holiday, sensing that its promotion was an attempt to recreate the commercial success of Mother’s Day. The quest to get Father’s Day recognized officially was an even harder battle. President Woodrow Wilson attempted to make it official in 1916, but he was blocked by a Congress that feared that the holiday would become over-commercialized. Several more attempts were made over the decades to declare the holiday, but it wasn’t until 1972 that it was established by law as a permanent national holiday, by President Richard Nixon. By this point, it was already well established as an informal holiday. The Father’s Day council declared in the mid-80s that the holiday had become a “Second Christmas” for all the makers of typical men’s gifts.

The First Father’s Day

Although Sonora Smart Dodd is generally recognized as the official founder of Father’s Day, she can’t claim credit for establishing the very first Father’s Day event. It was in 1908, two years before her first Father’s Day, that Grace Golden Clayton of West Virginia proposed the first recorded Father’s Day service. Late in the previous year, a coal mining disaster proclaimed to be “the worst mining disaster in American history” shook Monongah, West Virginia, killing 361 miners, 250 of whom were fathers. Motivated by her deep sorrow and empathy for the families affected, she proposed a Father’s Day service at the Williams Methodist Episcopal Church South to memorialize the dead and recognize the over 1,000 children left fatherless as a result of the tragedy. This first Father’s Day event did not gain national momentum for two reasons: its being overshadowed locally by other events the previous day, and Dodd’s shyness and disinclination to promote the event.

Father’s Day Flicks

There are a handful of films that are set on or around Father’s Day as a key part of the plot. Jam (2006), a drama film inspired by the filmmakers’ experience being caught in road congestion, is set on a Father’s Day where a traffic accident causes an hours-long traffic jam, forcing those stalled out of their cars to form unlikely, temporary friendships. The stories for each of the characters, or groups of characters, that the film highlights all lead back to the overarching theme of fatherhood – for example, a couple debating whether to have kids, a bride-to-be imagining what kind of father her future husband will be, and a divorcé considering his new role as a father and ex-husband. Action-horror comedy Father’s Day (2011) tells the story of the taking down of a serial killer, known as The Father’s Day Killer, who targets fathers. After killing protagonist Ahab’s father thirty years before the events of the film, he’s pursued by Ahab, who vows revenge. This gory, wacky film takes a turn into the fantastical when Ahab realizes that the killer has ties to the Satanic underworld and his quest for justice takes him into Hell. Similarly, mob film Underworld (1996) shares the obsession with avenging one’s father, centering around a mobster who’s determined to uncover his father’s murderer and settle the score.

There are also countless films focused on fatherhood that, while not explicitly connected to Father’s Day, are great options to watch on Father’s Day. Finding Nemo (2003), To Kill a Mockingbird (1962), and The Godfather (1972) are just some ideas for father-themed films to watch with Dad this year.

Germany’s Rowdy Father’s Day

With Religious Roots

Germany’s Father’s Day tradition is a bit different (and far more rowdy) than that of any other country. German Father’s Day, or Männertag, celebrated in May, is celebrated by men young and old, and these days not even necessarily fathers, by getting together and getting as drunk as possible. Well, the fervor of the celebration can differ, but the day has become notorious in the parts of Germany where it is widely observed as a day of drunk hooliganism, when police and emergency are on higher alert due to significantly higher rates of street brawls and car accidents. Still, not every celebrant does so irresponsibly. At its basic level, the holiday’s core traditions involve loading up wooden carts, Bollerwagen, with food and alcohol, and pulling them along on a hiking tour culminating in a picnic where the provisions are consumed. After sitting around in the woods, drinking, joking, and singing, the group might go out for a pub crawl.

Believe it or not, this tradition originates from a religious festivity. The date for Father’s Day coincides with the day of Ascension, celebrating Jesus’ bodily ascension to Heaven forty days after the observance of Easter. In the 18th century, communities observed this day by loading the village’s men into a wooden cart and pulling it in a parade down to the town plaza, where the man there who had fathered the greatest number of children would be granted an award, such as a large piece of ham, by the mayor. This is likely where the day’s association with fathers comes from. Eventually, that evolved to men going on their own walking trips together and the often-raucous holiday they celebrate today.

Dads Get the Royal Treatment

In Thailand, Father’s Day is celebrated on the fifth of December. This date was chosen to honor the late Thai King Bhumibol Adulyadej, whose birthday falls on that date. (Mother’s Day, likewise, falls on the date of his wife, the Queen’s, birthday.) The holiday, which was established in the 1980s to promote the country’s royal family, is celebrated in honor of both the King and the nation’s fathers. Thai children and grandchildren may show special respect and appreciation for their fathers on this day. The traditional gift on this occasion is the canna flower, similar to a lily. The King’s birthday is celebrated with various ceremonies throughout the country, and in the past, he would give a special speech to mark the day. Celebrants would inundate the Sanam Luang, a huge park in front of the palace, often camping overnight so that they could hear the speech. Many would wear yellow, as that is the color associated with his day of birth according to the ancient custom of assigning a color to each day of the week, and light candles as a symbol of their devotion. Although King Bhumibol passed away in 2016, Father’s Day continues to be observed on this same date.

We stampeded back into Harrisburg and have loved every minute of it!

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Williams Grove –Centuries of Fun

Story and photos by Samuel J. Rob

Over 174 years ago, the Williams family starting hosting picnics on their farm along the banks of the Yellow Breeches Creek near Mechanicsburg in south central Pennsylvania’s Cumberland Valley. From that humble beginning in 1850 grew an annual national event, an amusement park, and today’s Williams Grove Historical Steam Engine Association (WGHSEA). Through disastrous floods, wars, depressions, recessions, and pandemics, it has been quite a journey.

Following the Civil War, the National Grange (formally known as the National Grange of the Order of Patrons of Husbandry) was founded in 1867 to advocate for the interests

of farmers. Given that approximately 1 out of every 3 Americans was a farmer in the late 1800’s (compared to approximately 4% today), the National Grange quickly grew in membership and importance. Starting in the 1874, the National Grange selected the Williams farm picnic area (what we now know as Williams Grove) as the site for its Granger’s Picnic, which grew into the Great Granger’s Interstate Picnic and Exhibition, a national event that, at its height of popularity, attracted more than 100,000 visitors annually. While the National Grange still exists today, the Great Granger Interstate Picnic and Exhibition, after 42 years, came to an end in 1916 (the United States entered World War I the following year).

The event’s popularity was aided by the presence of the Dillsburg and Mechanicsburg Railroad. The railroad was originally constructed in 1872 to haul iron ore from the Dillsburg area to iron furnaces located around Harrisburg. During the week of the event, the railroad operated in excess of 300 passenger trains a week, with trains arriving and departing the Williams Grove station every ten minutes and carrying as many as 30,000 attendees a day to the event. The railroad eventually lost revenue, was acquired by a series of railroads (Cumberland Valley Railroad, Pennsylvania Railroad, Penn Central

Railroad), and ceased to exist in 1980 when the rails were removed. Today, the Cumberland Valley Rail Trail Council, a local non-profit organization, is pursuing plans to utilize the abandoned railroad bed to create a 7.3-mile biking/walking trail from Soldiers and Sailors Memorial Park in Mechanicsburg to Coover Park near Dillsburg.

With the ending of the Great Granger Interstate Picnic and Exhibition, a new era was launched in 1924 when the picnic grounds were purchased and the Williams Grove Amusement Park came into existence. Park rides began in 1928, with various roller coasters and other rides (some coming from amusement parks in New Jersey and Ohio that had closed) added over the years. The park was badly damaged in 1972 by Hurricane Agnes, rebuilt, and continued to operate until it closed at the end of the 2005 season. While the amusement park itself has ceased to exist, the park’s 1928 wooden Carousel House, a survivor of floods and neglect, is currently undergoing restoration by the WGHSEA. (Individuals wishing to donate funds for the restoration should mail their contributions to WGHSEA, a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, at: WGHSEA, Inc., PO Box 509, Mechanicsburg, PA 17055, ATTN: Carousel).

While the Great Granger Interstate Picnic and Exhibition and the Williams Grove Amusement Park are now history, the social, educational, and most of all fun, goals of those entities live on today in WGHSEA. Created in 1959, the organization, with a membership of over 1,800, maintains the farming tradition going back to the steam tractor era of the late 1800’s/early 1900’s (the focus on steam tractors isn’t

surprising given that two of the bestknown manufacturers, Frick and Peerless, were made in Waynesboro, Pennsylvania). WGHSEA events (open to the public) take place on Steam Engine Hill, the 94-acre site that once served as the Granger’s picnic grounds. Best known for its Spring Show and its Annual Steam Show (like the Granger’s picnic and exhibition, a weeklong event held every August), WGHSEA also hosts a year-round (weather permitting) Farmers Flea Market every Sunday morning, special events (Touch-ATruck and Train & Toy Show), and a Fall Festival. WGHSEA also conducts an annual steam tractor school for those enthusiasts who want to learn how to operate a steam tractor.

As a snapshot of the size of the Spring Show, the 2023 edition featured 23 steam tractors, 657 tractors, and 374 lawn and garden tractors. The show also features a car show, an operating sawmill, a blacksmith shop, horse and tractor pulls, hay baling demonstrations, train rides (WGHSEA constructed a mile of track on which to operate their steam locomotive) and, of course, food vendors. The 9-day Annual Steam Show in August is even larger and also features evening tractor parades and live music. Attendance at the Spring Show averages between 15,000 and 20,000, while the Steam Show attracts over 50,000 attendees.

Upcoming dates for the 2024 events are as follows: Touch-A-Truck – June 14; Train & Toy Show – June 15-16; 66th Annual Steam Show – August 24 – September 1; 5th Annual Fall Fest – October 25-27. WGHSEA events are held at 1 Steam Engine Hill, Mechanicsburg, PA. Additional information is available at wghsea. org.

Summer Diamond Event

Sweet Potatoes: A Nutritional Powerhouse

Sweet potatoes are not only delicious but also incredibly nutritious. They provide essential nutrients while being relatively low in calories. Sweet potatoes are packed with vitamins and minerals, including vitamin A, vitamin C, potassium, fiber, and zinc. Being rich in potassium means they support heart health by regulating blood pressure. Their fiber content also contributes to heart health by improving cholesterol levels.

Sweet potatoes are a powerhouse of nutrition and an excellent addition to nearly any diet. Whether roasted, mashed, or baked, these vibrant tubers offer a wide range of health benefits. So go ahead and enjoy this delicious superfood!

Here’s a recipe from UPMC MyHealth Matters for savory sweet potato puffs that is a healthier spin on a ‘tater-tot.’ Perfect as an appetizer, they would also be a great side dish for your holiday dinner table.

Ingredients

3 medium-large sweet potatoes (about 2 lbs.), roasted about 1 hour until soft, and cooled

4 oz. soft goat cheese

Sweet potatoes are also chock full of antioxidants — including carotenoids, tocopherols (vitamin E), phenolic compounds, tannins, flavonoids, and anthocyanins — that protect your cells from damage caused by free radicals. Antioxidants play a crucial role in preventing chronic diseases and supporting overall health.

Research has found that sweet potatoes may even have anticancer benefits. In some studies, the anthocyanins in purple sweet potatoes have been shown to inhibit the growth of various cancer cells, including breast cancer, gastric cancer, and colon cancer.

Here are a few other potential health benefits:

• The dietary fiber in sweet potatoes acts as a prebiotic, stimulating healthy gut bacteria growth and improving digestion.

• Phytochemicals in sweet potatoes, such as beta-carotene, enhance your immune system and can also protect your eye and retinal health.

• Beta-carotene, vitamin E, and other compounds help protect against illness and infection.

¼ tsp. cayenne pepper

¼ tsp. garlic powder

½ tsp. cinnamon

3 slices whole-wheat bread

1 tbsp. finely grated Pecorino Romano cheese

Directions

1. Pre-heat oven to 375°.

2. Mash sweet potatoes with potato masher or a large wooden spoon until no lumps remain. Add in goat cheese, cayenne, garlic powder, cinnamon, and salt, then mix well until evenly combined.

3. Toast bread. Let cool, then pulse in food processor or blender to make fine crumbs. Stir in Romano cheese.

4. Using a tablespoon, scoop out sweet potato mixture and roll in bread-crumb mixture. Place on a non-stick baking sheet or in a mini muffin tin and lightly spray tops with cooking spray (this is optional and adds negligible calories but makes them nice and golden after baking).

5. Bake 30-35 minutes, until outsides are crispy. Serve warm.

Makes approximately 24 puffs. Approximate nutrition information, per puff: 45 calories, 1.5 grams fat, 6 grams carbohydrate, 1.6 grams protein.

Sumathi Suppiah, MD, DABOM, is the medical director of medical weight management for the UPMC Central PA Weight Management Center. She is passionate about helping her patients achieve optimal health through good diet and nutrition, regular exercise, and mental health support. To learn more about medical weight management at UPMC in Central Pa., call 717-591-5638 or visit UPMC.com/ CentralPaWeightLoss.

What's Cooking?

IN LOCAL FOOD AND FUN

It’s a great month to smile … and say cheese!

Who doesn’t love ooey, gooey, stretchy, creamy, oh-so-comforting cheese? If you’re a cheese fanatic, you’re sure to get your fill in the pages that follow, because all three of our dining articles will give you something to smile about. Try an artisan grilled cheese from Mad Dash Concessions. Then, how about a cheesesteak stromboli or a margherita pizza from Seppe’s Pizza Junction. Finally, you don’t want to miss the Ultimate Five-Course cheesy experience at the ultimate fondue restaurant, The Melting Pot! C’mon, by now you have to be smiling!

Love local music? This month, After the Beat columnist Amy Simpson profiles popular local Rush tribute band, Solar Federation.

by Kimberly L. Morris

Photo

Making a Mad Dash for Mad Dash Grilled Cheese

Story by Imogene Gross, imogene@harrisburgmagazine.com

Photos by Kimberly L. Morris

The grilled cheese. A comfort food icon. A quick, classic lunch or dinner to make at home, and favorite treat at cafes, diners, and gastropubs across America since its invention in the 1940s. Grilled cheese day was always my favorite day at the high school cafeteria; greasy in the middle, crunchy around the crust, and gooey inside from all the melty white American cheese, with a styrofoam cup of hot tomato soup on the side. It may not have been the fanciest grilled cheese, but it sure hit the spot.

We’re not talking mass-made grilled cheese here today, though. We’re talking Mad Dash Grilled Cheeseartisan sandwiches grilled-to-order by a local food truck you may have seen at countless local events. Some of us at Harrisburg Magazine had already sampled some of their grilled cheeses in the past. The convenience and warming, nostalgic comfort of their grilled cheeses makes them the perfect option to carry with you at an event or gathering.

Though they offer a standard breadand-cheese grilled cheese (The Killer Grilled cheese, with Swiss, American, and Cheddar on homestyle bread), they also have a selection of specialty grilled cheeses, including a monthly special. The most popular at our office was the Grilled Mac and Cheese. As the name suggests, it’s a sandwich filled with scratch-made mac and cheese and held together with melty

pepper jack, and of course, it’s de licious. The texture of the noodles makes for a pleasant novelty, and the mild kick of the pepper jack maintains interest throughout the generously portioned sandwich. “Two of my favorite things, cooked to perfection,” commented Chris Aloia, Director of Sales, and as a fellow enjoyer of the sandwich, I can’t agree more. “A great combo,” concurred Fred Hershey, Account Executive. “It’s a must-try!”

Other favorites included the Buffalo Chicken Grilled Cheese, a variation on the Grilled Mac and Cheese that adds Buffalo Chicken to the mix, and the Buffalo Chicken, which pairs buffalo chicken with Cheddar and ranch. “Buffalo Chicken Dip meets grilled cheese, how could you not love that combination?” said Jennifer George, Director of Digital Marketing. She and the other person who tried theirs commented that the chicken adds a little kick but is not overwhelmingly

spicy. Jo Ann Shover, Account Executive, loved the Spinach and Artichoke Grilled Cheese, which features spinach, artichoke, mozzarella, Parmesan, and Swiss. According to her, it was “fresh, loaded with cheese, spinach, and artichoke. Very filling!”

“Mad Dash may have a simple menu, but fans of grilled cheese will find everything they could possibly desire,” declared Randy Gross. Chris Aloia proclaimed, “If you like grilled cheese, you’ll love Mad Dash!” We thoroughly enjoyed our generously provided lunch and hope that Mad Dash continues the mission of bringing delicious grilled cheese to Central PA wherever it may be needed, knowing that fans everywhere will make a mad dash for their sandwiches, sides, and drinks, when they see the Mad Dash van pull up.

On the Right Track at Seppe’s Pizza Junction

Story and photos by Imogene Gross, imogene@harrisburgmagazine.com

Lots of Enola establishments make reference to the Enola Rail Yard: Kristy’s Whistle Stop, The Train Yard Gym, Squeaky Rail Diner… and Seppe’s Pizza Junction. In honor of its proximity to what was once the largest freight yard in the world, the interior of the pizza restaurant is decked out with a delightful assortment of train-themed décor.

Of course, the décor isn’t the only thing delightful about Seppe’s. The food – delicious pizzas, subs, salads, pastas, and much more – has cemented them as a local staple. Last fall, former Center Street Grille chef Ayman Isaac took over from the original owner, the restaurant’s namesake. But he assured us that he’s kept all the beloved recipes the same, learning everything from Seppe himself. He takes clear pride in ensuring the restaurant’s great local reputation remains high.

We were generously treated to a full dinner at Seppe’s, and everything was perfectly prepared. First, for our appetizer, we got the arancini, breaded and fried rice balls stuffed with, in this case, ground beef and cheese, and served with marinara for dipping. We knew that these, already, would be a highlight of the meal – my fellow diners raved about their texture, which was perfectly crispy on the outside and chewy on the inside.

For an entrée, two diners shared a Cheesesteak Stromboli, with strips of juicy steak, mozzarella, grilled onions, and, to invoke a more cheesesteak-es -

que flavor, added mushrooms. It was generously portioned and, one diner remarked – cover your ears, Philadelphians - “better than some cheesesteaks I’ve had.” We all shared a margherita pizza (tomato sauce, fresh mozzarella, basil, garlic, and a dry herb blend). The pizza dough was high-quality with a perfect amount of chew, and the sauce and toppings were extremely flavorful. It was one of our diners’ first time trying margherita pizza, and he remarked that he’d gladly order it again. I ordered the Veggie & Cheese sub, a hot sub filled with grilled onions, green peppers, mushrooms, broccoli, lettuce, tomato, and my choice of cheese and sauce (provolone and mayo, in this case). It was the best hot sub I’ve ever had at a restaurant. The house-baked bread, with its subtle crisp and hearty, durable texture that held up very well to the fillings, was fantastic - some of the best Italian sub bread I’ve had.

All in all, we were impressed by the warmth and personability of the owner, the cozy “local” feel of the restaurant, and the freshness and attention to detail of the scratch-made food. It was a Tuesday night, typically a slow time for most restaurants, but still, throughout our meal, we observed locals coming in for take-out, and even one lady organizing catering for her daughter’s East Pennsboro school event. After our experience, it’s clear to us why this spot is a local favorite. In fact, it might just become a favorite of ours, too.

A Customizable Experience Sure to Melt Your Heart

Story by Imogene Gross, imogene@harrisburgmagazine.com

Fondue, invented by the Swiss, has been enjoyed in our country since the 1950s. Though its popularity has waxed and waned over the years, it remains a popular choice for getting together with friends and family. There are a few reasons for its enduring presence in our culture. It’s communal, it’s interactive, and it’s fun. And, honestly, what isn’t there to like about it? It’s melted cheese (or chocolate). Of course, it’s going to be delicious.

The first Melting Pot restaurant was established in 1975 in Maitland, Florida, bringing a classy yet accessible fondue experience to Americans at the height of the initial fondue craze. Since then, they’ve grown to operating nearly a hundred locations across the US, including our local Harrisburg branch on Paxton Street. They generously allowed us the chance to experience their most elaborate menu – the Ultimate FiveCourse dining experience. Here’s how it went:

Immediately, we were impressed by the atmosphere. The lighting is sub-

dued, the color scheme is elegant, and – my favorite – the seating is private. The booths are arranged and set into the walls in such a way that, although not completely closed off from the rest of the dining room, you almost feel like you’re in your own little bubble with your fellow diners. It’s the perfect intimate setting for conversation – no eardrum-splitting music here - and I imagine it’d be perfect for a romantic date.

Our server was friendly and knowledgeable, and very accommodating for dietary restrictions. Being a fondue restaurant, they do things a little differently from the average restaurant. Your server prepares your fondues, and sets you up for your entrees, but you, the diners, get to prepare and enjoy your own meal as you would like it. As such, your experience – even if you’re there for a package, like the Ultimate FiveCourse - is very customizable. You pick your own individual salads, and shared fondues, entrees, and cooking style (more on this later).

Photos submitted

The experience began with a light appetizer - the Green Goddess Bacon-Stuffed Tomatoes. They were perfect small bites to enjoy over conversation and, perhaps, a craft cocktail from their full-service bar. Next was our pick of cheese fondue – we chose the Quattro Formaggio, featuring a blend of three Italian cheeses and one traditional fondue cheese blended with white wine, garlic, and pesto. The fondue was served with an assortment of cubed bread, veggies, and grapes (might sound weird, but the sweet/savory pairing was really good) to dip, and, included with the Ultimate Five-Course are six Double Dippers –toppings, such as everything bagel seasoning or crunchy dill pickle chips, that you can sprinkle onto your dippers after covering them in fondue for an extra pop of texture and flavor. Next was the salad course - a nice palate reset of fresh flavors. Two of us chose the California and one the Bacon & Bleu Spinach. The serving size was just right for a quick refresh before the main course.

The Melting Pot’s entrée cooking style made for a fun and novel experience. At every table, there is a cooktop – or

two cooktops for larger tables – which is where the fondue is made and kept warm. For the entrée, though, guests are served an assortment of meats and veggies and can choose from one of five cooking styles. Most of these are fondue style preparations – meaning you cook your items in a broth or oil – but we chose the Cast-Iron Grill style and were equipped with a grill-style pan for our cooktop. We ordered the Ultimate Celebration Entrée (lobster tail, center-cut filet, teriyaki steak, herb-crusted chicken breast, and shrimp, with seasonal veggies) and, although a second entrée is not usually included in the Ultimate Five-Course, designed for two diners, we also ordered the Garden Pot (Impossible Polpettes, red onion, asparagus, zucchini, mini sweet peppers, wild mushroom ravioli, and artichoke hearts). It was lots of fun to grill our own food at the table, and to complement our bites with their assortment of six house sauces.

Speaking of lots of fun… dessert. The Ultimate Five-Course comes with the Chocolate Explosion, a sparkler-topped mountain of fondue decadence. If you

bring a guest of honor, be sure to get some shots of their face as they’re dazzled by the blaze! Once it burns out, you’ve got a delicious dessert waiting for you. It wasn’t anyone’s birthday, but we chose the white chocolate fondue topped with confetti birthday cake. The fondue is also served with an assortment of sweet dippers – cubes of sponge cake and brownies, strawberries and bananas, to name a few. Our personal favorite to dip into the white chocolate fondue were the sugar-coated waffles. It may sound like sweetness overload, but something about the combo was just transcendent.

We had never been to The Melting Pot before, but we now understand why it’s such a popular destination for special and ordinary occasions alike. The Ultimate Five-Course experience makes for a wonderful evening, but there are other packages to suit different needs, as well as an a la carte menu where diners can order most of the items on their own. With so many options, you can put together a memorable meal for any occasion.

SEASONS’ GREETINGS

Alas, friends, this will be my final column for Theatre Thoughts. I don’t want to leave you empty-handed, so I will use this column to let you know about the truly staggering amount of live theatre that will be happening around our area for the remainder of 2024.

JULY/AUGUST

CHILDREN’S THEATRE FEST every weekend in July at Gettysburg Community Theatre

THE 39 STEPS July 12-28 at Oyster Mill Playhouse

THE MUSIC MAN July 12-28 at Keystone Theatrics

TICK, TICK…BOOM! July 14, 21, 28, and August 4 at Federal Taphouse Harrisburg (presented by the Bare Bones Theatre Ensemble)

GUYS AND DOLLS July 17-28 at Lebanon Community Theatre

THE 2ND ANNUAL HARRISBURG

FRINGE FESTIVAL July 18-21 at various venues

ESCAPE TO MARGARITAVILLE July

25-August 4 at Hershey Area Playhouse

ANYTHING GOES July 26-August 4at Susquehanna Stage

POTUS July 27-28 at Open Stage of Harrisburg

JULIUS CAESAR August 2-11 at Gettysburg Community Theatre

THE 25TH ANNUAL PUTNAM COUNTY SPELLING BEE August 2-11 at the Belmont Theatre

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER

CABARET September 6-22 at Theatre Harrisburg

ANYTHING GOES September 6-15 at

Gettysburg Community Theatre GO YOUR OWN WAY: A CELEBRATION OF FLEETWOOD MAC September 6-21 at Open Stage of Harrisburg

CHICAGO (Teen Edition) September 12-15 at Hershey Area Playhouse

BOEING BOEING September 13-29 at Oyster Mill Playhouse

POTUS September 20-21 at the Unitarian Church of Harrisburg (presented by The Pharmacy Theatre)

THE MOUSETRAP October 11-20 at Gettysburg Community Theatre

LITTLE SHOP OF HORRORS October 11-27 at Keystone Theatrics

RIDE THE CYCLONE: THE MUSICAL October 12-November 2 at Open Stage of Harrisburg

LEGALLY BLONDE October 17-27 at Hershey Area Playhouse

A FEW GOOD MEN October 17-27 at Lebanon Community Theatre

ASSASSINS October 25-November 3 at Susquehanna Stage

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER

THE PIRATES OF PENZANCE November 2-17 at Gamut Theatre

THE MUSICAL COMEDY MURDERS OF 1940 November 8-24 at Oyster Mill Playhouse

STANDING OVATIONS November 8-17 at Gettysburg Community Theatre

INTO THE WOODS November 8-24 at Whitaker Center (presented by Theatre Harrisburg)

BLITHE SPIRIT November 14-17 at Hershey Area Playhouse

WHO’S HOLIDAY November 23-December 22 at Open Stage of Harrisburg

A CHRISTMAS CAROL November 30-December 22 at Open Stage of Harrisburg

OTHER DESERT CITIES December 6-15 at Susquehanna Stage

BEAUTY AND THE BEAST December 6-29 at Keystone Theatrics

FINDING NEMO, Jr. December 6-15 at Gettysburg Community Theatre

TINY TIM’S CHRISTMAS CAROL December 12-15 at Hershey Area Playhouse

WHITE CHRISTMAS December 12-22 at Lebanon Community Theatre

Thank you for reading my columns, for thinking through theatre and its attendant experiences with me for the last several months. For now, I’ll sign off–good night and good lu–... er, break a leg!

Tara Herweg (she/her) is a native of Camp Hill, a former Core Company member of Gamut Theatre Group, and a huge fan of the Harrisburg theatre scene. Now she gets to call herself a writer, too (her 8-year-old self, Care Bears fanfic in hand, can hardly believe it)! She keeps herself busy working on her novel, watching horror movies, and raising her small human.

Attention All Planets of Central Pennsylvania!

Solar Federation: Keeping the Spirit of Rush Alive

In the realm of tribute bands, one group shines for their unwavering dedication to the legendary band Rush. Solar Federation, hailing from Central Pennsylvania, is a female-fronted Rush tribute experience that has made a lasting impact on the rock music scene since their inception in 2015.

At the heart of Solar Federation is co-founder and avid drummer, Ffej Herb. Herb’s passion for Rush was sparked by his brother’s introduction to the band’s music, leading to a lifelong commitment to mastering Rush’s intricate rhythms. With a unique learning approach involving intense listening and meticulous practice, Herb’s drumming lays the groundwork for the band’s success on his Yamaha Maple Custom Absolute kit.

Julie Schreiber-Wirsing brings a fresh perspective as the band’s female vocalist amidst a sea of male-dominated tribute acts. Her meticulous attention to detail and emotive delivery in songs like “Witch Hunt” transport fans back in time, capturing the essence of Rush’s music with finesse. Schreiber-Wirsing’s dedication to honoring Rush’s lyrics and storytelling adds a new depth to the band’s performances, earning her a special place in the hearts of fans.

Mike Bitts, who handles the Geddy Lee Signature Fender Jazz bass and keys, infuses a touch of magic into the band’s sound. With a humble demeanor and undeniable talent, Bitts’ musical prowess shines through in every performance. His ability to transform into a musical wizard, whether on the bass or keys, brings an authenticity, depth, and complexity

After the Beat/Amy Simpson

to the band’s renditions of Rush’s timeless classics.

Eric Wirsing’s meticulous attention to detail and tone with his Suhr Custom Modern guitar ensures that every performance remains faithful to the original sounds and textures of Rush. His precision in recreating the structured parts of the songs, coupled with his intense playing style, delivers an immersive experience for fans, allowing them to relive the magic of Rush’s music in every note.

Solar Federation’s participation in events honoring the late Rush drummer, Neil Peart, underscores their dedication to preserving the band’s legacy. As the sole U.S. Rush tribute band to be invited to headline the “A Night for Neil” memorial tribute concert in Neil’s hometown of St. Catharines, Ontario, Solar Federation considers it a significant honor. The band has been nominated for “Best Tribute Band” by the Central Pennsylvania Music Hall of Fame in 2021, 2022, 2023 and, proudly, now 2024! Additionally, their contributions to RushFest Scotland’s Neil Peart tribute albums - “Songs for Neil” Volumes 3, 4, and the latest release on Volume 5, featuring their renditions of “The Necromancer,” “Chemistry,” and “Witch Hunt”showcase their musical prowess. The group has collaborated with longtime Rush album cover artist and collaborator Hugh Syme, as well as producer Terry Brown for their latest track. Solar Federation stands as a shining example of the transformative power of music, with Rush serving as a timeless portal. Their upcoming performance on June 22 at The Englewood in Hershey, PA promises to be an unforgettable night where fans can unite to celebrate the enduring music of Rush. After all …

“We’re only immortal for a limited time” – from “Dreamline” by Rush. For more information and bookings contact: Aaron Miller, amiller@ homesmusicmagmt.com

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

U M M E R

N S A T I O N S

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c r e a t i v e f l o r a l a n d d e s i g n i n n o v a t o r s . A t T h e J D K

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t h e w a r m w e a t h e r a nd t h e c o m p a n y o f y o u r g u e s t s !

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u w i t h p u r p o s e

r t y ) ! ? E m a i l y o u r

p e r i e n c e t o o u r

@ t h e j d k g r o u p . c o m !