IN THIS ISSUE ...
TASTES LIKE TRADITION SUMMER FUN GUIDE
For 50 years, Roberto’s Pizza has been more than a restaurant: It’s been a cherished community gathering place, serving up delicious food with family tradition at its core. From high school hangouts to milestone celebrations, this Camp Hill staple continues to bring people together.
THE WORLD THROUGH LIV’S LENS
At just 16, Olivia Stokes is making waves as an award-winning photographer, writer and community leader, using her lens to tell powerful stories and uplift those around her. With her nonprofit, Liv’s Lens, she’s proving that art can be a force for change.
Transform your outdoor space with these easy DIY projects that add style, function and charm without the need for a contractor.
PETS, LAWN CAN COEXIST
You don’t have to choose between a lush lawn and a happy pup, because simple adjustments can keep both thriving. From training tips to pet-friendly landscaping, pet care columnist Kristen Zellner explains how to strike the perfect balance outside your home.
Discover the best local events, concerts, celebrations and happenings across Central Pennsylvania. Check out our calendar and start planning your next adventure!
BY THE BEAT
Fueled by talent, friendship and an unstoppable drive, The Jellybricks have spent nearly three decades crafting infectious rock that stands the test of time. The band proves that great music starts with great camaraderie. Amy Simpson has the story in this month’s After the Beat column.
ON THE COVER
Instructor Don Metz playfully spars with Angela White during a workout at the Harrisburg Area YMCA designed as a pathway to confidence, strength and self-defense. These high-energy classes are helping people of all ages throw punches with purpose, turning fear into power.
PAGE 12.
PRESIDENT/CEO
Darwin Oordt doordt@harrisburgmagazine.com
MANAGING DIRECTOR, HARRISBURG MAGAZINE
Sarah Sheehan ssheehan@harrisburgmagazine.com
DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS
Darcy Oordt darcy@harrisburgmagazine.com
MANAGING DIRECTOR, SIMPLY THE BEST Chris Aloia caloia@harrisburgmagazine.com
EDITORIAL DIRECTOR
Eric Ebeling eebeling@harrisburgmagazine.com
SENIOR MARKETING
SPECIALIST
Jo Ann Shover jshover@harrisburgmagazine.com
MARKETING SPECIALIST Emily Rowe erowe@harrisburgmagazine.com
GRAPHIC & LAYOUT DESIGNER
Danny Kilmer dkilmer@harrisburgmagazine.com
DISTRIBUTION MANAGER Richard Eppinger reppinger@harrisburgmagazine.com
(Photo by Charity Kennedy Bixler)
Entrepreneurial Spirit: A Slice of History
Roberto’s Pizza Marks Half-Century Of Food, Family and Community
Story and photos by Eric Ebeling, eebeling@harrisburgmagazine.com
On any given fall Friday night in Camp Hill, the windows of Roberto’s Pizza on Market Street fog with the warmth of community.
Teenagers fresh from football games crowd the booths, families gather for dinner, and the scent of bubbling cheese and fresh dough fills the air. This year, Roberto’s celebrates a milestone few family-run restaurants ever reach: 50 years in business.
Founded in 1975 by Dominic Roberto, 85, the restaurant has become a beloved institution in Central Pennsylvania. But the story of Roberto’s begins long before the first pie was ever tossed.
Roberto didn’t start out in the restaurant business. A proud graduate of William Penn High School in Harrisburg, he spent over two decades serving on the Harrisburg Police Department after a stint in the Air National Guard in the early 1960s.
“I was on patrol a couple years. Then I went into the youth aid division, juvenile division, and I worked plain clothes with them for eight or 10 years,” he said. “We did
the high schools and all of that. It was a great, great experience. I loved it. I also worked vice squad.”
Roberto retired as a sergeant in 1983.
But his roots in food ran deep.
“I worked at my brother-in-law’s pizza shop when I was in high school,” Roberto said. “That’s where I got my first taste of the business.”
In 1973, his brother Sam spotted an opportunity: A small pizza shop on Market Street in Camp Hill called JoJo’s was up for sale. “Sam called me and said, ‘There’s a guy looking to get out. Want to take it over?’” Roberto said. They did – and Roberto’s Pizza was born at 2014 Market St.
The early days were a whirlwind. He juggled night shifts on the police force with long hours at the shop. His wife, Monette, ran the counter, and their children often napped in the back room
“When we first opened up, I was working over 80 hours
a week because Dominic was still a detective, and he could only come when he was off,” she said. “And my children, of course, were in school, so I would rush after lunch and pick them up, and I would bring them to the shop. Elizabeth and Michael would sit at the front of the shop, and their first duty was to do their homework, and then they would fold boxes and clean and bus tables.”
“I was raised with my dad saying to me the restaurant may not always be here. They come and go. So, we had no idea that it was going to ever last this long,” said daughter Elizabeth Roberto. “But it was funny. At 2014 Market St., it was just a small little place, and hardly anybody went in there. Once we took it over, though, the high school kids started hanging out. We believed in what we were doing, and we had each other.”
In 1975, the Robertos moved the business to its current location at 2040 Market St., purchasing a former flower shop and transforming it into a full-service pizzeria. They expanded the kitchen, added onto the building to create space for more seating, and began establishing what would become a local landmark. At one time in the early ’80s, the spot also included an old-fashioned ice cream shop run by Monette.
Roberto’s quickly became known for its signature subs and pizzas, thanks in part to a sauce recipe that’s remained unchanged for decades.
“We mix extra heavy pizza sauce with crushed tomatoes and our own blend of seasonings,” Dominic said. “It’s all about balance.” Roberto’s even launched a line of jarred spaghetti sauce – Casalingo – that’s now sold in 25 Giant grocery stores.
The bread, too, is made in-house – a detail that has earned Roberto’s a cult following.
“We had a guy in California trying to replicate our bread,” said Dominique Brown, Elizabeth's daughter. “He said it just wasn’t the same as ours.”
In 1983, Dominic retired from the police force to focus on the business full-time. His brother Sam stepped away in 1985.
Over the years, the menu has grown to include homemade lasagna, meatballs, strombolis, a wide variety of salads, chicken wings, subs of all kinds and much more. But the heart of the operation remains the same: time tested recipes and quality ingredients – made from scratch and served with pride.
Roberto’s isn’t just a restaurant; it’s a gathering place. For half a century, it’s been the go-to spot after high school sporting events, and also during the weekday lunch rush, when
Camp Hill students stream in the door to place their orders. During a recent interview with Harrisburg Magazine, Dominic and his family sat back and watched as high school students filed in for food, filling a large portion of the dining area during their break.
At the same time, Roberto’s staff members were hustling to make 30 pizzas for an end-of-year party at a local elementary school.
“We’ve had birthday parties, anniversaries, even my mother’s 109th birthday here a few years ago,” Dominic said. “It’s always been about family.”
Elizabeth agreed.
“Once you establish yourself in the community, people all automatically come,” Elizabeth said. “Now, it’s generationally fueled because parents brought their kids in. Then the kids left and got married, and another generation comes along. Families. The people come back every year when they’re visiting. They come in and say, ‘Hey, we loved your subs. We loved you.’ I know I get so many messages on Facebook. We celebrate family.”
The restaurant has supported local schools, sports teams and community events over the years. “We’ve advertised with Camp Hill football and basketball for years,” Dominic said. “And every Friday before a Penn State home game, people come in to pick up subs for tailgating.”
At its peak, Roberto’s operated seven locations across Central Pennsylvania, including shops in Penbrook, Middletown, Carlisle and Colonial Park, where Elizabeth served as the longtime manager. Each location used the same recipes, carefully written
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down and laminated by Elizabeth and Dominique to preserve them for all time.
“We train everyone here in Camp Hill,” Dominic says. “Then we send them out to the other shops.”
Like many small businesses, Roberto’s faced serious challenges during the COVID-19 pandemic. But the family adapted quickly, embracing online ordering and delivery services like DoorDash.
“We closed the dining room and focused on takeout,” Dominique said. “It was tough, but we made it through.”
The restaurant’s resilience is a testament to its loyal customer base, and to the family’s unwavering commitment to quality and service.
Today, Roberto’s is run by the third generation of the Roberto family. Dominique and her father, Gary Herman, oversee daily operations, while the others remain active behind the scenes.
“I’m hoping the next generation keeps it going,” Dominic said. “It’s a family tradition now.” He also credited his loyal workers, some who have been on staff for more than a decade.
Plans are underway for a 50th anniversary celebration this September, and the family is excited to honor the milestone along with the community that’s supported them for so long.
What’s the secret to surviving – and thriving – for 50 years in the restaurant business?
“Community,” Elizabeth said without hesitation. “We’ve always been here for the people, and they’ve been here for us.”
Dominic agreed. “We never set out to be the biggest. We just wanted to be the best at what we do.”
Contact Roberto’s Pizza at www.robertospizzapa.com.
From left, Dominique Brown and Monette, Dominic and Elizabeth Roberto.
P l e a s e Vo t e U s :
• Au t o D e a l e r ( N e w D o m e s t i c )
• Au t o D e a l e r ( P r e o w n e d / Us e d )
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• D e t a i l i n g b y Au t o D e a l e r
• Cu s t o m e r Va l u e s - L a r g e B u s i n e s s
• Au t o S a l e s p e r s o n - S t u B i n g a m a n
L B S m i t h Fo r d . c o m
How a YMCA Class is Building Confidence Power in Every Punch:
“SIMPLY THE BEST” AUTO BODY SHOP
IBy Eric Ebeling, eebeling@harrisburgmagazine.com
n a brightly lit fitness room at the Friendship YMCA, the rhythmic thud of gloves meeting pads echoes like a heartbeat. It’s not a professional boxing gym, and there’s no ring in sight, but what’s happening here is every bit as powerful. This is more than a workout. It’s a movement.
“Lunge, lunge lunge! Move that left foot! Lunge, lunge, lunge, lunge! Good! Lunge!” yelled instructor Don Metz. “That’s where the power comes from, transferring that weight. The
better you get, the more you lunge. Good, good, all right!”
Metz, a former business executive and college professor, has created a boxing self-defense program for the YMCA that has become one of the most popular and impactful fitness offerings in the Harrisburg area. With over 200 participants across multiple branches and growing in the past year and half, the class blends cardio, self-defense and empowerment in a way that’s changing lives.
Photos by Charity Kennedy Bixler
Don Metz
Metz’s journey to the YMCA is as unconventional as it is inspiring. After selling his successful statue manufacturing company, he found himself teaching business at Rock Valley College in Illinois. But when the college needed someone to lead a cardio kickboxing class, Metz stepped in and discovered a new calling.
“I realized the students, especially the women, were scared,” Metz said. “They needed more than cardio. They needed self-defense. So, I created a class that gave them both.”
That philosophy followed him to Harrisburg, where he and his wife, Kristie, moved to be closer to their daughter, Jenny.
. He now teaches eight classes a week across four YMCA branches: Mechanicsburg, Front Street, Camp Curtin and Friendship. His sessions are equal parts sweat and strategy, with drills that simulate real-world scenarios, like what to do if someone grabs you in a parking lot or how to react when a stranger gets too close.
The class is also a safe space for everyone, but especially for women.
“We talk about where to park, how to scan your surroundings, how to react if someone approaches you. It’s not about scaring people. It’s about preparing them,” Metz said. “You’ll see it tonight during class: Somebody throws a left hook at their head, they know exactly how to block it and what
to do, what punches to throw. And I do a lot of talking about, where do you park your car? What do you look for if some man walks in this room screaming? What do you do? What stance do you take? Where do your eyes go? All of these are real world things that you need to know.”
What makes this class unique isn’t just the punches – it’s the people. From 11-year-old Willow Moon Bennett to 64-year-old Miriam Phillips, the class draws a diverse crowd of all ages, backgrounds and fitness levels.
“I listen to a lot of true crime podcasts, and a lot of the worst things happen to women. I wanted my daughter to be able to defend herself, and that’s why we started taking this,”
Dipen Gupta practices his punches with Don Metz at the Friendship YMCA.
said Willow’s father, Robert Bennett, of Harrisburg. “This class gives her that confidence.”
Willow, who is just 11 years old, echoes her father’s sentiments. “It’s really, really fun,” she says. “I feel like I can handle myself now.”
Angela White, a former college volleyball player, joined the class two months ago and quickly earned the nickname “Thumper” for her powerful punch. White said she is athletic and plays volleyball, but students don’t need to be jocks to participate in the sessions.
“It’s fun without being overly competitive. I’m a competitive person, but it’s not like that. It’s fun, it’s relaxing, but it’s also hard work at the same time. The first time I came and did four minutes of (hand) rolls, my shoulders were on fire. It’s a workout,” she said. “We do some of the self-defense moves, like, what if someone comes at you. What to do. What to look for. I think just learning how to properly throw a punch and having that knowledge makes you feel more confident. You know you can do it.
You know how to do it without hurting yourself, but also how to protect yourself if need be.”
White said she took self-defense classes in the past and was disappointed.
“I’ve absolutely hated them. I’m saying to myself, ‘I’m never going to remember all this.’ Like, too many steps,” she said. “This class is very natural, like if you were in a situation where someone was coming at you, what do you do? Your instinct takes over. It builds that self-confidence. You’re hoping you never have to use the skills that you have, but just knowing you have them is a good, good feeling.”
The classes offer the obvious physical benefits of improved cardio, strength and coordination, they also deliver an emotional and psychological impact.
“Boxing is about speed, not brute strength. It’s about focus, discipline and reaction. Everybody thinks boxing is just power. No, it’s speed,”
Willow Moon Bennett throws some jabs.
Metz said, throwing quick, sharp jabs in succession. “It’s all about speed. So, the faster your punch, the more direct the strike. I think that’s why women get off to a better start then men do. Men want to haul off and hit something like they are John Wayne or Rocky Balboa, but that’s not speed. That leaves them exposed. I say, ‘Put your left hand on your left cheek. Put your right hand on the right cheek. Step with your left foot.’ Women do just that, and they punch right to the other ladies. Quickly. It gives them confidence.”
That confidence is evident in every jab and uppercut. Students who once hesitated now hit with purpose. Those who came for fitness stay for the community.
Grant Govelovich, who joined the class with his son Alex, said he saw it as a way to spend energy and bond as a family. “I’m a divorced father, and I wanted my kids to try something new. This is actually Alex’s first boxing class (on that night), and he’s having a great time,” Bennett said. “It’s a great way to spend energy and work out at
the same time and just get out all that frustration from the day or the week. Boxing is tough. People who haven’t done it don’t realize this. I played football, I wrestled. This is one of the hardest things.”
Govelovich praised the teaching style Metz brings to the workout room.
“Don’s a good instructor. He doesn’t teach above anybody’s level. I mean, nobody here is a boxer. You can see how mixed the class is, right? He’s fun. He jokes around. It’s never too serious,” he said.
Miriam Phillips, of Harrisburg, was looking for a way to incorporate her
whole body into her fitness routine after several surgeries when she spotted a pamphlet advertising the boxing self-defense classes.
“I was looking for something like that. This was the ticket. I came in with no level of expectations, and I’ve taken every class ever since,” she said. "His drills give you that second-nature reaction. He works on that through his drills. You’re not thinking about what you’re doing, but you’re improving your reflexes. I think that’s what brings people back is when they release their inner anger or whatever is troubling them on their mind. When they leave, even though they sweat, they leave a whole lot better than when they came in.”
Interested in joining? The class is open to YMCA members, with free trials and guest passes available, according to Madeline Kelly, marketing manager for the Harrisburg Area YMCA. No experience is necessary, and modifications are made for all fitness levels.
“We’re not training fighters,” Metz said. “We’re training people to feel strong, safe and confident.”
And judging by the energy in the room, it’s working.
For more information, visit Harrisburg Area YMCA at https://ymcaharrisburg. org or stop by your local branch.
Angela White boxes while Don Metz watches.
Alex Govelovich, left, works out with his dad, Grant.
LIV’S LENS: The Vision of a Young Artist With a Heart for Her Community
By Eric Ebeling, eebeling@harrisburgmagazine.com
Humble and soft-spoken, a Harrisburg-area girl is quietly capturing the world through a lens – and changing it in the process.
Olivia Stokes, a junior at Susquehanna Township High School, is not your average teenager. She’s an award-winning photographer, a gifted writer, a community leader and the founder of her own nonprofit entity.
And, at age 16, she’s just getting started.
Olivia’s artistic journey is deeply rooted in her family.
Her father, Floyd Stokes, is a prolific children’s book author with more than 30 titles to his name and the founder American Literacy Corporation, which has promoted youth reading efforts for decades.
Her older sister, Madison, paved the way through the NAACP’s Afro-Academic, Cultural, Technological and Scientific Olympics (ACT-SO), winning gold regionally and nationally for her scientific research project several years ago. Olivia followed suit in recent years, but with a focus on the arts: photography, poetry and essay writing. In fact, the Stokes girls have won gold in all seven years consecutively on the regional level.
“I’ve always loved photography,” Olivia says. “But I really started getting into it about four years ago. ACT-SO gave me an outlet to express that passion.”
In 2023 and 2024, Olivia’s work earned her multiple ACT-SO medals, including gold for photography and original essay, and silver for poetry. Her winning photography portfolio
included six images, each one evocative in its visual storytelling. Her portfolio and essay will compete for gold in the national contest in July.
One standout is a hummingbird in mid-flight, taken after days of persistence.
“It was a really tedious process. It was really a waiting game, and it took a lot of patience,” she said. “It took around three days to capture. They were drinking nectar from where it was hanging on the ledge, and I managed to get the shot.”
Another is a portrait of 96-year-old Herman Johnson, a Korean War veteran and longtime NAACP member, whose face tells a story of his resilience and experience.
There’s also a sunrise shot of the
Olivia Stokes
The Capitol dome glows in the morning sunshine.
Pennsylvania Capitol, taken while she got low to the ground to get the perfect angle.
“The light was shining perfectly on the Capitol. I loved how the gold was illuminated, and the blue in the Capitol was shining,” Olivia says. “So, I had to lay on the ground and snap that picture. As you see, the grass is kind of level with the camera at the bottom.”
She’s particularly happy with a macro photo she took of a kiwi fruit slice titled “Smile,” which playfully turns a fruit into a symbol of joy.
“I find inspiration everywhere,” Olivia says. “It’s funny, because usually when I set out to capture something – if there’s like a park that I want to take certain pictures of or buildings –I usually find something greater than what I was taking a picture of.” One image that stands out in her mind was captured just like that: A homeless woman draped in blankets as she sat along an ice-covered Susquehanna River on a bitterly cold morning.
“I wanted to take pictures of the ice formation, but what we saw was a homeless lady in about negative-20 degrees. She had blankets. She had a lot of blankets on her, and it was just devastating to see the state that she was in,” says Olivia. “But she was so happy-go-lucky when we talked to her. It just really put things into perspective.”
Olivia’s passion for photography isn’t just about aesthetics and powerful storytelling; it’s about access. She founded Liv’s Lens, a nonprofit that provides professional-quality photos to people who can’t afford them. From prom portraits to retirement home keepsakes, Olivia is using her talent to
give others lasting memories.
“Everyone deserves to feel seen and celebrated,” she says. “Photography can do that. I have a photo shoot next weekend for prom photos, and this individual can’t afford them. I just thought it would be great to do that.
Everybody deserves to be happy and get photos like that.”
Her sister, Madison, serves as the board chairwoman of the charity, and the organization is already making an impact. Olivia plans to expand her reach in the coming years.
Olivia took this portrait of Herman Johnson.
Olivia credits her success to a strong support system: her parents), siblings (Madison, Tressimee, Devin and Dwayne), and mentors like Dr. Eliseo Rosario. Rosario is a retired Carlisle-area pediatrician who became a professional-caliber bird photographer. He taught her the intricacies of framing the perfect shot and mastering the camera – in her case a Sony A-77. For photo editing, she taught herself on a laptop dedicated mainly to her photography work.
Her mother, LaShana, said she and Floyd have always nurtured their daughter.
“We have always instilled in her belief in yourself and knowing that you can achieve and do anything that you put your mind to. There may be roadblocks, there may be barriers, but you can always overcome them,” said LaSahana. “I’ve always shared with Olivia to do what she enjoys, because it’s going to show in the work that she does. It’s going
Floyd and Olivia Stokes.
to show in anything that she does that she’s passionate about. And so from day one, I’ve always ensured that every morning we did affirmations. ‘I am beautiful. I am kind. I am creative. I am unique.’ We literally say this every day. So, that has been instilled in her is affirming herself and also affirming others, as well.”
Olivia also praises her broader sphere of influence for helping her on her creative journey.
“I’m really grateful to have such a supportive community, such a group of people that inspire me and keep me going and encourage me to push forward. No matter what. No matter what,” she says.
For Floyd, his pride in daughter Olivia’s accomplishments is obvious. “People ask me what my hobby is,” he says. “My hobby is taking her around to take pictures. We spend a lot of time together. She doesn’t have her license, so between her mother and I, we take her around. I love it.”
Her parents instilled in her a love for the written word at a very early age, she says.
“I’ve always had a passion for writing and reading. In the womb, really, is when I was introduced to books and I was read to, and still to this day, we read every single night. It’s really grown my appreciation for reading and writing. With my dad being a writer and having children’s books, it’s really encouraged me to pursue reading and writing.”
A chaplain in the Archonettes, a youth auxiliary of the Zeta Phi Beta sorority that empowers black girls, Olivia’s faith is central to her life. “My relationship with God keeps me grounded,” she says. “It helps me stay humble and focused.”
She’s also a member of the Rho Kappa Honor Society, Key Club and student government. And while she hasn’t settled on a college yet, she’s considering a major in business or photography, with dreams of studying abroad. Experiencing France through her camera lens is high on her list.
In July, Olivia will compete at the national ACT-SO competition in Charlotte, N.C., in the photography and essay writing categories. And from Aug. 1 to Sept. 30, her photography will be on display at the Capital Blue Cross Connect in Enola, with a public
reception on Aug. 7 from 5 to 6:30 p.m., presented by the Art Association of Harrisburg.
“I want to keep growing. Not just as an artist, but as a person. I think for me, it’s really about knowing where I come from and knowing that even with the competitions and the awards, it’s not about the awards,” she says. “It’s about getting better, and really, this journey is with myself and knowing that staying humble can really get you far.”
When asked what advice she’d give to other young creatives, Olivia doesn’t hesitate: “Find what you love, stick to it and don’t ever give up.”
In a world often overwhelmed by noise, Olivia Stokes is a quiet force of beauty, purpose and hope, taking in life through her lens – one frame at a time.
Adventures on a Tank A Historic Getaway to
Just 40 miles south of Harrisburg, where rolling farmland meets the echoes of history, lies a destination that helped shape the soul of a nation. Gettysburg, forever etched into the American story by a three-day battle and a two-minute speech, offers far more than a history lesson. It’s a place where past and present coexist, where cobblestone streets lead to artisan shops, and where orchards and wineries thrive on land once shaken by cannon fire.
With the United States’ 250th birthday on the horizon, there’s no better time to explore this iconic town. And the best part? You can do it all on a single tank of gas.
The Battle of Gettysburg was a turning point in the Civil War, and its legacy is preserved across nearly 6,000 acres at Gettysburg National Military Park. Start your journey at the Gettysburg National Military Park Museum and Visitor Center. Here, you’ll find a powerful introduction to the battle through a short film, rare artifacts, and the awe-inspiring Gettysburg Cyclorama – a 360-degree hand-painted mural that immerses you in the chaos of Pickett’s Charge.
New to the center is “Ticket to the Past – Unforgettable Journeys,” a virtual reality experience that transports visitors to 1863. Plan to spend two to three hours here, especially if you’re a history buff, according to Mary Grace Kauffman, media relations manager
for Destination Gettysburg.
From there, head out to the battlefield itself. The park is free and open from dawn to dusk, with a 24-mile, 16-stop self-guided auto tour that lets you explore at your own pace. But for a truly unforgettable experience, book a tour with one of Gettysburg’s licensed battlefield guides. These experts, certified by the National Park Service, bring the stories of soldiers and generals to life with vivid detail and passion.
Gettysburg’s museums go far beyond troop movements and battle maps. For families, the interactive Children of Gettysburg 1863 museum offers a hands-on look at the war
By Harrisburg Magazine
Photos Courtesy of Destination Gettysburg
of Gas: Gettysburg
through the eyes of young people. The Jennie Wade House and Shriver House Museum provide intimate glimpses into civilian life during the battle, while the Seminary Ridge Museum offers panoramic views from the same cupola where Union General John Buford surveyed the battlefield.
Looking for a broader perspective? Gettysburg Beyond the Battle is the town’s newest museum, covering everything from prehistoric times to World War II and beyond, Kauffman said. And for those more interested in tanks than tactics, the World War II American Experience museum showcases vintage military vehicles and the stories of the Greatest Generation.
Adams County isn’t just rich in history; it’s rich in agriculture. As Pennsylvania’s top apple-producing county, the region is dotted with orchards, farm markets and pick-your-own experiences. The self-guided Adams County Crop Hop trail is a great way to explore the area’s agricultural bounty. Whether you’re wandering through a hedge maze, sipping cider in the sunshine or enjoying a farmto-table meal, you’ll find that the land here still tells a story.
And speaking of sipping: Gettysburg’s craft beverage scene is thriving. The Adams County Pour Tour includes stops for wine, beer, cider, mead and spirits. Highlights include Mason Dixon Distillery, which grows its own grain on the battlefield, and Adams
From casual bites to candlelit dinners, Gettysburg’s culinary scene is as diverse as its history. For a meal steeped in Civil War ambiance, try the Farnsworth House Inn, where bullet holes from the battle still mark the walls. Or dine at the Dobbin House Tavern, a Colonial-era inn that predates the Declaration of Independence.
For something more modern, head to the Sign of the Buck, a French-inspired New American restaurant housed in the beautifully restored Union Hotel. Whether you’re craving comfort food or culinary innovation, Gettysburg delivers.
County Winery, one of the oldest in
While Gettysburg makes for an easy day trip from Harrisburg, you may want more time to explore. The town offers a wide range of accommodations, from charming bed-and-breakfasts and boutique inns to familiar hotel chains and peaceful campgrounds. Whether you’re looking for luxury or simplicity, you’ll find a place to rest your head – and maybe even spot a ghost or two.
Gettysburg is more than a battlefield. It’s a living, breathing town where history is honored but never frozen in time. It’s a place where you can stand where Lincoln once did, walk where soldiers marched and still enjoy a glass of wine under the stars.
And best of all, it’s just a short drive away.
(Re)Discover Nearby Gettysburg.
There are two flavorful ways to explore the bounty of picturesque Adams County, home to historic Gettysburg. First, savor locally crafted beers, wines, ciders, mead, and spirits along our popular Adams County Pour Tour. Then take a scenic outing through the region’s many working farms and orchards on the Adams County Crop Hop, our farm and market trail. Whatever your taste for foodie adventure, Gettysburg and Adams County have you covered. Just a short drive from Harrisburg!
UPCOMING EVENTS
June 14: PA Cider Fest, Biglerville
July 1-6: Battle of Gettysburg Anniversary commemoration, with various events downtown and at the national park. Battle re-enactment will be held July 4-6 at the historic Daniel Lady Farm.
July 10-13: Gettysburg Bike Week
July 19-20: Gettysburg National 19th Century Base Ball Festival
Aug. 14-17: Gettysburg Bluegrass Festival
Sept. 6-7: Gettysburg Wine and Music Festival
So, fill up the tank, grab your camera and hit the road. Adventure, and a deeper understanding of our shared past, awaits in Gettysburg.
Backyard Boost Easy DIY Projects for a Better Outdoor Space
With warmer weather rolling into Central Pennsylvania, there’s no better time to upgrade your backyard. Whether you’re in a city row home in Harrisburg or a spacious suburban lot in Linglestown, these three do-it-yourself projects can transform your outdoor space without breaking the bank or requiring a contractor. Here’s how to get started, with guidance from industry experts.
Build a Simple Raised Garden Bed
A raised garden bed not only enhances curb appeal but also improves drainage, controls weeds, and makes gardening more accessible.
According to the experts at Penn State Extension, raised beds should be at least 6 to 12 inches deep and made from untreated wood like cedar or pine. A bed of 4-by-8 feet is manageable for most beginners and allows for easy access from all sides.
Steps:
• Use boards that are 2-by-10 inches or 2-by-12 inches. Cut and screw them into a rectangular frame.
• Place cardboard or landscape fabric at the bottom to suppress weeds.
• Fill with a mix of topsoil and compost.
• Choose plants suited to Central Pa’s climate, such as tomatoes, peppers and herbs.
Tip: Penn State’s Master Gardeners of Cumberland County suggest placing the bed in a location that receives at least six hours of sunlight daily.
Source: Penn State Extension – Raised Bed Gardening
Create a Gravel Fire Pit Area
Looking to entertain without the cost of a patio? A gravel fire pit area creates a cozy gathering spot with minimal tools and materials.
According to This Old House, all you need is a fire pit kit (available at many home improvement stores), pea gravel, landscape fabric and edging materials like bricks or pavers.
Steps:
• Choose a flat, level area at least 10 feet from any structure.
• Mark a 10-foot diameter circle, dig out about 3 inches of soil.
• Lay landscape fabric to prevent weed growth.
• Fill with 2–3 inches of compacted pea gravel.
• Add a prefabricated fire pit ring or build one using fire-rated bricks.
Safety Note: The Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources recommends keeping a hose or fire extinguisher nearby and checking for local burn ordinances.
Source: This Old House – How to Build a Fire Pit
Install a Vertical Pallet Planter
Short on space or want to add greenery to a fence or wall? A vertical pallet planter is ideal for herbs, succulents or flowers, and it’s a beginner-friendly upcycle project.
As recommended by gardening DIY authority Better Homes & Gardens, use heat-treated shipping pallets (look for “HT” stamped on the wood) to avoid chemical contamination.
Steps:
• Lightly sand the pallet to smooth rough spots.
• Staple landscaping fabric to the back, bottom, and sides of each row to hold soil.
• Fill the compartments with potting mix and plant your desired greenery.
• Secure the planter vertically against a wall or fence using screws and brackets.
Tip: Herbs like basil, parsley and mint do well in these small, contained environments. Just make sure the planter gets at least 4 to 6 hours of sun per day.
Source: Better Homes & Gardens – DIY Pallet Planter
Outdoor String Light Posts for Ambience
Add nighttime charm to your backyard with freestanding string light posts. DIY Network suggests this simple upgrade for patios or grassy areas where permanent mounting isn’t possible.
For materials, you will need 4-by-4inch posts, concrete mix, buckets or planters, hooks and string lights.
Steps:
• Set each post in a 5-gallon bucket or decorative planter using quick-set
concrete.
• Let cure for 24 hours.
• Screw eye hooks into the top of each post.
• String commercial-grade outdoor lights across your yard or patio.
Lighting Tip: Use warm white LED lights for energy efficiency and a cozy glow. Space the lights evenly and test the configuration before setting posts permanently.
Source: DIY Network – Backyard String Lights
Each of these projects can be completed in a weekend or less, making them perfect for homeowners looking to make the most of their outdoor spaces. With a little planning and some basic tools, you can boost your backyard’s function and charm.
Just in time for summer.
Strike a Balance To Keep Your Lawn Healthy and Your Dog Happy
We all know the frustration of keeping our yards looking nice, only to be harassed by random scorch marks or freshly dug holes dotting the landscape. Many of us resign ourselves to the fact that we can have a nice yard or we can have dogs, but we can’t have both. Having the yard we want may take some extra effort or modifications, but it can be a nice place that you and your dog share and enjoy.
A major pet peeve of most homeowners with dogs is dead grass. Brown or yellow spots on your lawn are caused by the high concentration of nitrogen in a dog’s urine and the pH of the urine. To minimize the effects of urine on the grass, flush the areas where your dog likes to squat with water daily. If the grass is completely dead, you can dig it out and plant grass seed or sod.
Dogs can be trained to relieve themselves in designated areas, away from the grass. Offering a space that is mulched with natural wood can be an attractive compromise. When your dog uses the bathroom there, simply offer lots of praise to encourage the behavior to continue. The time it takes will depend on your consistency with training. Used in conjunction with deterrents like vinegar, citrus, coffee grounds and cayenne, you may see great success.
Another thing to consider instead
of fighting the brown spots is a “less grass” approach. You can get creative and incorporate pebbles and stepping stones, ornamental grasses, hearty ground cover and mulched areas that look tidy and won’t display the urine damage that grass does. The result will be less stress for you and more freedom for your dog.
Digging is another top complaint of dog parents. Finding holes in your freshly planted garden can be maddening, but keep in mind that dogs don’t dig to upset you. It’s not personal. Many canines are natural diggers and see it as their job. Others dig out of boredom, anxiety and pent up energy. Just like dogs that destroy things indoors, dogs that don’t get regular exercise and mental stimulation are more likely to dig and destroy your yard. Offering playtime, walks, chews and puzzle toys can help alleviate the problem.
Also, if there is space in your yard, you can provide a digging spot, like a child’s sandbox. Hide toys in the box and praise your pup when he finds them. This will encourage him to use his digging area and leave the rest of the yard alone.
Having dogs forces us to compromise and modify our lives. Instead of getting stuck in the mindset that your yard must look perfect, it may be easier to allow your dog to joyfully do dog things, within reason. However you proceed with caring for your lawn and your dog, refrain from using weed killers, pest control chemicals, toxic plants and treated mulch and fertilizers anywhere your dog has access. There are natural, non-toxic alternatives that provide the same results without harm to pets, humans or the planet.
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.
Use the Big Four When Planning For the Unplanned
As I was leaving the hospital, my client stopped me in the doorway and thanked me for encouraging her to implement an estate plan. Just a few years ago, prior to her cancer diagnosis, I had recommended that she speak with an estate planning attorney. Back then, she balked at the idea, saying only extremely wealthy individuals need an estate plan.
Now she’s expressing the relief she feels knowing that her affairs are in order, and she has the right people in place to help her navigate her medical journey.
Many estate planning attorneys offer an “estate planning package” for a very reasonable, one-time fee. I typically call it the Big Four. Let’s take a look at the Big Four and how it may be able to help you plan for the unplanned.
The Big Four:
Last Will and Testament: Most people think of a will as a document that outlines who receives your property at your death. And while that is true, a will can also address additional important issues, such as naming a guardian to watch over your minor children. I have a section in my will that outlines who will continue to train and compete my beloved beagles.
Financial Power of Attorney: This powerful document allows you to name an agent to handle your financial affairs if you are incapacitated. This can be extremely useful if you are undergoing medical treatments.
Health Care Power of Attorney:
Similar to the financial power of attorney, the health care power of attorney allows you to name an agent to assist you with medical decisions, including authorizing treatments, choosing doctors and accessing medical records.
Advance Medical Directive: Sometimes referred to as a living will, an advanced medical directive gives you the ability to provide instructions about your preference for medical treatment, especially when addressing end-of-life care. In many situations, an advance medical directive can include a do-not-resuscitate (DNR) for end-of-life care and outline preferences for the use of ventilators, feeding tubes, etc.
While it may be a difficult topic to address, estate planning can provide significant peace of mind. You do not need to be a multimillionaire to start your first estate plan. In fact, I often recommend that when a child turns 18, they reach out to an attorney to get a health care power of attorney drafted.
Back in my college days, as a resi-
dent assistant, I had to watch a family struggle to coordinate health care for their freshman son because he wasn’t a minor child, and the doctors and insurance company were being very tight-lipped. The parents struggled to navigate HIPAA regulations and insurance companies’ policies. A health care power of attorney would have helped them avoid many headaches and delays, allowing them to focus on the most important issue at hand –their son’s health.
While most people think of a last will and testament as an estate plan, it’s truly just the tip of the iceberg. An estate plan should address numerous contingencies, ranging from potential health issues to incapacity and even unplanned death. A solid estate plan should allow close family members or trusted friends to assist you in a time of need, while giving your family members instructions on how you wish to be treated.
If you haven’t reviewed your estate plan in a couple of years, reach out to an estate planning attorney and make sure your wishes are still accurately reflected.
Local Real Estate Market Remains Strong and Steady
I.recently flew out West to check in on my 86-year-old mom in Utah. She’s still full of energy – walking laps around her 55+ community, baking homemade bread and sorting her own pills for the week.
But things are shifting.
My nephew, who’s been living with her, just moved out. That quiet, echoing house has sparked some big conversations. Maybe it’s time to sell. Maybe it’s time for something simpler.
Naturally, the real estate agent in me got curious. What’s the market doing in her area? I reached out to a
trusted colleague in Logan, Utah, and was surprised by what I heard: The once-blazing market there has slowed to a simmer. Homes are sitting 60, 90, even 100 days or more. Price reductions are back in play. Sellers are anxious. It’s a full-on cooling trend.
It made me wonder: What’s the temperature back home in Central Pennsylvania? As a boots-on-the-ground agent here, I have my instincts, but I wanted to compare that gut feeling with hard data. So, I pulled the numbers for the Hershey/Hummelstown/Palmyra area, where I live and do most of my business.
Recent data tells a story of strength and steady demand. Compared to this time last year, we saw more homes hit the market (111 new listings this April vs. 103 last year), giving buyers a bit more room to browse. But don’t be fooled: Prices are still climbing.
The median list price rose from
$350,000 to $374,900 – a jump of more than 7 percent. Even more telling, the median sold price climbed 10 percent to $358,000. That’s no small move in a single year.
Sales volume surged nearly $4.5 million year-over-year. That’s not just about higher prices; it’s about more closings, too. We saw 76 homes settle in April 2025 compared to 68 in 2024. And homes are moving faster: Average days on market dropped from 23 to 19. In this landscape, a well-priced home can be under contract before the open house flyers hit the mailbox.
Pending sales stayed steady – 90 this year vs. 92 last – suggesting we’re heading into summer with healthy momentum.
What does this mean for local homeowners? In short: We’re still in a strong, resilient market. There’s more inventory than last year, but demand remains robust. It’s an opportune moment for sellers. For buyers, it’s about being ready. The best homes are still going fast.
As for my mom? We’re going to take it slow and mull the whole thing over. We have plenty of time to decide what “next” looks like.
Eileen S. Voyles is a Realtor with Homesale Realty, 501 W. Governor Road, Hershey, and the founder of HelloHersheyPA, a Pennsylvania Benefit Corporation that promotes commerce and happy living in Hershey and beyond. You can follow Hello Hershey on your favorite social media platform. She can be reached at (717) 533-6222 and (717) 508-4610 or eileenvoyles@gmail.com.
Reclaiming Men’s Health After 40
Father’s Day is a time to honor the strength, wisdom and loyalty of the men who have helped raise families, build communities and lead by example.
But even the strongest among us can start to feel ... not quite like ourselves. If you’ve been feeling tired all the time, struggling with motivation, losing interest in intimacy or just feeling “off,” it might not just be stress or age. It could be andropause, also known as low testosterone or “low T.” Andropause is a real medical condition that affects many men over the age of 40.
It occurs because, starting in their 30s, men’s testosterone levels begin to decline gradually, usually around 1 percent per year. By your 50s or 60s, that decline can lead to symptoms that affect your energy, memory, muscle mass, mood and libido. Testosterone isn’t just about sex drive. It’s a vital hormone that keeps you feeling mentally sharp, physically strong and emotionally balanced.
The good news is you don’t have to accept these changes as just part of aging.
A quality health care provider can help men identify and treat hormonal imbalances through our personalized, integrative wellness program. This includes detailed lab work, lifestyle assessments, and, when appropriate, testosterone replacement therapy (TRT). I recommend taking a wholebody approach, supporting you
through personalized guidance on nutrition, sleep, stress management and movement.
Think of it as a total reset to help you reclaim your edge. And you can begin your journey from the comfort of your home through telemedicine.
I don’t consider myself an average physician. I’m triple board-certified in anti-aging & regenerative medicine, internal medicine and lifestyle medicine, with a passion for helping men regain their strength, vitality and clarity as they age. My approach is modern, evidence-based and deeply personalized.
Whether you’re struggling with low energy, mood changes or hormonal imbalance, seek advice to get answers and create a plan that works for you.
This Father’s Day, don’t just hope for better health.
Take action.
Claudette Gbemudu-Jatto, M.D., F.A.C.P., is the owner of Jatto Internal Medicine & Wellness, 205 Forest Hills Drive, Suite 12, Harrisburg. An internist since 2000 in southcentral Pennsylvania, she is certified by the American Board of Anti-Aging/Regenerative Medicine, and she is certified in internal and lifestyle medicine. Contact her at www.jattointernalmed.com or (717) 553-2474.
Father’s Day: Honoring the Men Who Shape Our Lives
By Eric Ebeling, eebeling@harrisburgmagazine.com
Each June, as summer takes root and daylight lingers just a little longer, families across the country pause to honor an often-unsung hero: Dad. Father’s Day, celebrated this year on Sunday, June 15, is an opportunity to reflect on the essential role fathers and father figures play in shaping our lives, our communities and our futures.
In Central Pennsylvania, families are bound by deep-rooted traditions, strong values and enduring connections that shape generations. Whether
Dad is a blue-collar worker on the job before sunrise, a stay-at-home parent managing the daily whirlwind of life or a retiree now offering quiet wisdom, his influence flows through the everyday rhythm of life.
While Mother’s Day often takes center stage with its floral fanfare and brunch reservations, Father’s Day holds its own profound significance. Fathers are mentors, providers, protectors and teachers. The good ones model resilience, patience and unconditional love. Whether tossing a
baseball in a backyard in Camp Hill, helping with homework in Midtown Harrisburg, or quietly supporting from the sidelines at a Mechanicsburg youth soccer game, dads help to shape the confidence and character of our next generation.
Studies show that children with actively engaged fathers are more likely to do well in school, avoid risky behavior and develop healthy emotional relationships. These are not just abstract statistics; they are realities lived out daily in households across the
Susquehanna Valley.
So, how can we meaningfully honor fathers in a way that feels personal, not cursory?
Start by asking what Dad actually wants. For some, it may be a peaceful afternoon fishing along the Susquehanna River. Others might prefer a backyard cookout surrounded by laughter and the smell of grilled burgers. Personalizing the day makes it more memorable.
It’s doubtful your father needs another gadget or necktie, so why not give him the gift of your time? Quality time together is often what fathers value most. Consider organizing a family game night, movie marathon or even just a scenic drive through the rolling hills that surround us. Make it about togetherness.
Along those same lines, a handwritten letter has emotional weight. Write a heartfelt note expressing gratitude, sharing memories or acknowledging the impact he’s had on your life. It’s a small gesture with lasting resonance.
Is your dad a history buff? Gift him a membership to the State Museum
of Pennsylvania. A golfer? Book a tee time at one of our renowned local courses. An avid reader? Visit a local bookstore for a special find. Supporting his hobbies shows that you know and appreciate his individuality.
Remember to celebrate grandfathers, stepfathers, uncles, coaches and mentors, too. These are men who have stepped into the “father” role with love and dedication. Father’s Day is as much about biological ties as it is about emotional bonds, and that goes for those who are no longer with us.
At its core, Father’s Day is about connection, recognizing the steady presence of men who have cared for us through lessons, laughter and even tough love. It’s a chance to show them what they mean to you.
Voting in this year’s Simply the Best competition runs through June 15. Readers can cast their ballots online by visiting harrisburgmagazine.com and clicking on the voting platform on the homepage.
Your time to vote is winding down, but every year a large portion of the votes come in the final two weeks, so ...
Fun For All
June 13 - July 26
Art exhibit:
“In a Different Light” FREE! Carlisle Arts Learning Center www.carlislearts.org
June 14
Inaugural Juneteenth Parade FREE!
12 p.m.
Harrisburg Capitol Complex
June 16
Kendrick Lamar and SZA
7 p.m.
Hersheypark Stadium hersheyentertainment.com
June 19
Jubilee Day FREE! All Day
Downtown Mechanicsburg www.visitcumberlandvalley.com
June 20
Strawberry Square
Music Series Lineup FREE! Le Ghast, plus special guest
6 - 9 p.m. www.strawberrysquare.com
June 21
Duncannon Appalachian Trail Festival FREE!
10 a.m. - 4 p.m.
Downtown Duncannon
June 28
Fun Food Fest & Fireworks FREE!
4 - 10 p.m.
Hampden Township Park, Mechanicsburg
June 29
Me2/ Orchestra
Rose Lehrman Arts Center
12 - 3 p.m.
Fundraiser for Jewish Family Services of Greater Harrisburg
July 4
July 4th Food Truck Festival FREE!
12 - 7 p.m.
Riverfront Park, Harrisburg
July 4
Paxtang Patriot Dash 5K
8 a.m.
Saussaman Park, 600 N Paxtang Ave., Paxtang
July 4
4th of July Celebration & Fireworks Extravaganza
3 - 9 p.m.
The Star Barn, 1 Hollinger Ln., Elizabethtown
July 10
Summer Floral Workshop
JDK Catering and Events
12 - 4 p.m.
Register online at: www.jdkgroup.com
July 12
Luke Bryan
7 p.m.
Hersheypark Stadium
hersheyentertainment.com
July 13
Market Square Concerts
Summermusic 2025 FREE!
“Love & Loss”
4 p.m.
July 18 - 27
York State Fair
Times Vary
York Expo Center
July 18 - Aug. 2
Art exhibit: “Perspectives” FREE!
Carlisle Arts Learning Center www.carlislearts.org
Market Square Presbyterian Church, Harrisburg
Marketsquareconcerts.org
July 16
Market Square Concerts
Summermusic 2025 FREE! “Places & People”
7:30 p.m.
Market Square Presbyterian Church, Harrisburg
Marketsquareconcerts.org
July 17 - 20
3rd Annual Harrisburg
Fringe Festival
Various Harrisburg locations www.hbgfringe.com
July 19
Market Square Concerts
Summermusic 2025 FREE! “Trials & Triumphs”
7:30 p.m.
Market Square Presbyterian Church, Harrisburg
Marketsquareconcerts.org
July 25 - 26
Country Rock
Music Festival
Times Vary
Deer Run Camping Resort, Mount Holly Springs
July 26
Pride Festival of Central Pa. FREE!
Harrisburg Capitol Complex https://centralpapride.org/
FUN FOR KIDS
June 12
Kids Summer Camp
Jubilee Cake Studio
1 - 4 p.m.
Register online at: www.jubileecakestudio.com
June 13
Kids Night & Fireworks
11:30 p.m.
1 Speedway Drive, Mechanicsburg
June 27 - July 6
Carlisle Summerfair FREE!
Times Vary
Downtown Carlisle
OVER 21
June 14
Spring Festival at BVW
11 a.m. - 8 p.m.
Bucks Valley Winery, Newport
June 17
Cocktails and Canvases
7 p.m.
The Brownstone Lounge, Harrisburg
June 21
Food & Wine Festival
5 p.m.
Binns Park, Lancaster
July 4
Lancaster Red, White & Brew Bar Crawl
Downtown Lancaster
5 - 11 p.m.
Register online at: www.pubcrawls.com
July 19
Brewfest
3 - 7 p.m.
Fort Hunter, Harrisburg
The Jellybricks Make Music Woven With Talent, Friendship and Drive
In the frequently tumultuous world of music, where artistic temperaments frequently clash, there exists a band of brothers whose laughter and camaraderie resonate as deeply as their melodies. Meet The Jellybricks, a group bound by music and mutual respect, whose friendship is as vibrant as the tunes they create.
The Jellybricks’ story is steeped in the diverse musical journeys of its members.
From an early age, Larry Kennedy was destined for the spotlight. At just 4 years old, he captured local attention by singing “Take Me Out to the Ballgame” at a family reunion. This early taste of fame sparked a lifelong passion for performance. Discovering
The Beatles that same year, Kennedy dreamed of joining their ranks. He began his musical quest with piano lessons, followed by violin through grade 12, but his heart was set on playing the guitar. By 14, he had formed his first basement band, setting the stage for his future success with The Jellybricks.
“I was obsessed with The Beatles and always wanted a group where four people genuinely get along, support one another, are kind to one another and are open to each other’s ideas,” Kennedy said.
Garrick Chow’s musical path started with piano and violin lessons in early childhood. In high school, he made the transition to upright bass, playing in
the school orchestra and, soon after, bought his first electric bass – a defining moment for him. Chow shares a deep bond with Bryce Connor, a friendship that began in preschool and formed the backbone of their collaborative spirit. Together, they created a band, writing original songs and releasing recordings before college. Despite college challenges, they thrived, playing in bands like Daily Planet and The Morris Chair, ultimately finding lasting success with The Jellybricks.
Connor, known for his guitar skills and vocals, balanced his musical interests with a passion for sports, excelling in soccer and ice hockey. His connection with Chow was a constant throughout his life. As high school juniors, they formed The Evergreen
The Jellybricks are, from left, Tom Kristich, Garrick Chow, Larry Kennedy and Bryce Connor.
Establishment. Even with colleges 20 miles apart, their musical collaboration endured, culminating in the formation of The Jellybricks in 1996 at Green Room Studios.
Tom Kristich, the band’s dynamic drummer and vocalist, grew up as the youngest of seven siblings, each with unique musical tastes. This diverse exposure shaped his musical sensibilities. At 11, he picked up the drumsticks, diving into percussion. By 15, Kristich was performing in local bars, gaining invaluable experience. His eclectic influences and dedication eventually led him to join The Jellybricks, where his talents found a perfect home. Together, each member contributes as a vocalist and songwriter, creating a unique and harmonious musical process that defines their band.
The band’s name emerged from a brainstorming session at the Green Room, with Rej Troup, a good friend and drummer for The Martini Bros, suggesting The Jellybricks. Everyone loved the yin and yang of it.
“My first idea was to call it Killer Grin, but Rej came up with the best name,”
Kennedy said.
. The group began performing Kennedy’s six original songs, with collaboration at the heart of their process. Bob Welsh, owner of The Green Room Studios, booked their first gig at Fast Eddie’s in Carlisle, setting the stage for their growing success. The Jellybricks gained momentum fast.
When original drummer Liane Wehler left, the band found themselves in a tight spot and couldn’t imagine continuing without their friend and musical companion. But destiny intervened during a gig at The Vault. Kristich happened to be there, relaxing with friends. Encouraged to join in, he rose to the occasion, and the impromptu performance that night was electric, sealing his fate as the perfect fit for the band. The Jellybricks had become whole again.
Kristich brought his own gear and started playing with the group on a full drum kit from then on, with their first gig being at Jitterbugs. No rehearsal was needed: They had bonded enough that it felt natural, and they were ready. The band secured regular gigs at The Vault on Wednesday nights through Ray Rossi, a popular club DJ who booked bands at the venue.
A powerhouse of talent and energy, the group found a unique sound.
“Despite financial and label challenges, the group’s bond only grew stronger, fueled by putting humor above everything else,” said Kristich. “We really like each other and enjoy creating together.”
That creative process now spans 29 years and has engendered an appeal that stretches far beyond their home state. Drawing inspiration from the ’60s British Invasion to ’90s alterna-
tive, their blend of garage rock and power pop has carved out a special musical footprint. Every member has an equal creative voice.
Their differences balance their common ground, evident in their unique collaboration when performing and creating songs. They were first signed to Primitive Records in 1997, releasing “Kinky Boot Beast,” then “Soapopera” in 1999 with Rite-Off Records. The album “Power This” was their first with Kristich on drums in 2004 with Kool Kat Records. Their release “Goodnight to Everyone” in 2008 on Primitive Records cemented them as power pop veterans.
Around 2012, they gained momentum, notching several releases and forming an affiliation with Stevie Van Zandt, founder of Wicked Cool Records. Van Zandt, legendary for his work with Bruce Springsteen and on HBO series “The Sopranos,” recognized The Jellybricks’ single “Rock n Roll Suicide” as the “Coolest Song in the World” on his show, “Little Steven’s Underground Garage.”
“About the Weekend,” released in 2014, was another hit from their album “Youngstown Tune-Up,” followed by the 2019 album “Some Kind of Lucky” on Wicked Cool Records. The single “Brooklyn,” from an album that marked each member as a writer, was nominated for Best Video at the Independent Music Awards, highlighting them as a multi-songwriter band. In 2019, the Central Pennsylvania Music Hall of Fame awarded The Jellybricks as the Best Rock Band in Central Pennsylvania and nominated them for Song of the Year. They are also up for induction into the hall of fame.
Their latest album, “Dreaming in Stereo,” released in 2024 and produced by Geoff Sanoff, features guest guitarist
Doug Gillard (Guided By Voices, Nada Surf), and hits like “Age of Stupid,” “Devil’s A Day Away,” and “Dreaming In Stereo,” making a lasting footprint in the music industry. It’s a band that never rests.
With their talent, creativity and genuine passion for their craft, it’s no wonder these nice guys finish first. If you haven’t seen this group, you need to.
Upcoming shows include June 12, The Bowery Electric in New York City; June 14, Cedars West End in Youngstown, Ohio; Sept. 13, Big Hill Ciderworks, with The Super High-Tech Jet Fighters, in Gardners, Pa.
Contact The Jellybricks at: jellybricksmgmt@gmail.com. Their music is available on all music platforms.
Amy Simpson is an 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 and has shared 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.
Comics by Danny Kilmer
