HARRISBURG MAGAZINE JULY 2023

Singer, songwriter, Poison frontman - and philanthropist - Bret Michaels, who will bereturning to his native Central PA on August 26 for a special benefit concert at Hollywood Casino.

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CENTRAL PA-CENTERED

Bret Michaels: a “Made in PA” Road Warrior Helping Our Country’s Wounded Warriors

Story by Randy Gross rgross@harrisburgmagazine.com Photos submitted

go to see all the places I love,” he says. “I hang out there, I even bring my RV, I sometimes have the kids with me, and we make it a great day.” That is, whenever time allows.

With an annual touring schedule (see the coming month’s 2023 “Parti-Gras Tour” dates below) that rockers half his age might find grueling, Michaels is a true road warrior – and this despite a diabetes regimen of vigilant glucose monitoring and five insulin injections per day. “I’m one of those guys, my dad and mom both used to say, when I was a kid I had a little extra unique energy – they weren’t quite sure what it was – and they just left it at that,” he recalls with a laugh. “But that passion and excitement is, oddly enough, what keeps me going.” Besides the hard work ethic he grew up with in Central PA, Michaels credits his family’s “victory over victim attitude” for helping him to overcome – and adapt to –various adversities in his life.

“I’m like a classic muscle car,” he muses. “I’m still fast, still fun to drive, but I just need a little more maintenance.”

Asked if he thinks of himself as a role model for fans who have to deal with diabetes or other health difficulties, he modestly remarks “Let me say this, I’ve never sat down and said I’m a role model. What I feel like is ‘I’m in it to win it’ with them. I feel like I’m a friend. I have this conversation with people all the time. I’ll be talking with someone at a show and I’m like ‘how’s your sugars,’ and it’s sincere for me.”

When some people hit it big in the world of entertainment, they never look back. Bret Michaels, on the other hand, not only returns to his Mechanicsburg roots as often as possible, but his desire to return home is easily summed up in his new single and video, “Back in the Day.”

Sometimes I wish I could rewind, I think about it all the time …

That rewind, says Michaels, is what he tries to do in real life. “Just go back to places that, for me, felt great, felt right, and just bring back that amazing feeling.” Proclaiming proudly that “Central PA has kept me centered,” he eagerly cites the many local activities he loves to partake in, including tubing on the Yellow Breeches, grabbing a slice at JoJo’s Pizza, or the “Zen-like experience” of enjoying the view of the Susquehanna River while driving along Front Street in Harrisburg. “When I’m home, I

Equally sincere for Michaels – and perhaps the number one reason why he’s being recognized in this issue as one of Central PA’s most influential people – are the multiple charitable causes he has adopted as his own, specifically the physical and mental wellbeing of U.S. veterans. Taking inspiration from his late father, a Navy veteran interred at Fort Indiantown Gap, he is a road warrior helping wounded warriors via his Life Rocks

Foundation ( www.liferocksfoundation.org ), and even plans to donate a portion of proceeds from his upcoming concert at Hollywood Casino in Grantville to various Hometown Hero programs throughout the region.

Michaels explains further: “When I developed Life Rocks, I said I want a boutique charitable foundation that I know where the money goes. In other words, if we auction off stuff, I

put money in, the fans put money in, I want them to know it’s ‘a dollar in, a dollar out.’ It’s a non-profit, and it started with, obviously me as a diabetic, when we started sending tons of kids to diabetic camps with no payment. I said, ‘this will change your life … it’ll allow you to find a community and great friends.’”

Echoing one of Poison’s most well-known songs, Michaels proclaims “I love bringing

Thu Jul 13 – Clarkston, MI – Pine Knob Music Theatre

Sat Jul 15 – Burgettstown, PA – The Pavilion at Star Lake

Sun Jul 16 – Holmdel, NJ – PNC Bank Arts Center

Fri Jul 21 – Mansfield, MA – Xfinity Center

Sat Jul 22 – Gilford, NH – Bank of New Hampshire Pavilion

Sun Jul 23 – Camden, NJ – Freedom Mortgage Pavilion

Fri Jul 28 – Maryland Heights, MO – Hollywood Casino Amphitheatre

Sat Jul 29 – Tinley Park, IL – Hollywood Casino Amphitheatre

Sun Jul 30 – Noblesville, IN – Ruoff Music Center

Fri Aug 04 – Tampa, FL – MIDFLORIDA Credit Union Amphitheatre

at

the FL State Fairgrounds

Sat Aug 05 – Alpharetta, GA – Ameris Bank Amphitheatre

Sun Aug 06 – Charlotte, NC – PNC Music Pavilion

TICKETS HERE

https://www.livenation.com/artist/K8vZ9171uV7/bret-michaels-events

BRET MICHAELS

Official Website: https://www.bretmichaels.com/

Official Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/BretMichaels/

Official Twitter: https://twitter.com/bretmichaels

Official Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bretmichaelsofficial

Official YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCtzjhx3zFbzDSMiv1OvUwLQ

‘nothing but a good time’” to those in need in a whole range of causes, from childhood cancer to breast cancer to pet charities. “I live for two things,” he says, “I have a great time, and you have a great time.”

All of which brings us to Michaels’ music. Though currently on tour as a solo act, his years fronting the band Poison led to record sales of over 25 million and 15 songs hitting the Top 40. So, it goes without saying that, just as Michaels was influenced by other musicians and styles of music as a teenager (“I’d be listening to Aerosmith, KISS, AC/DC, but then I would also flip around and listen to James Taylor and Jim Croce,” he recalls) he and his bandmates have also influenced – and been influential to – contemporary bands.

But providing everyone a “great time” goes well beyond strumming a guitar and singing. To borrow a phrase from the vacation resort industry, Michaels aims to make every performance an “all-inclusive” experience –and none more so than the experience he has planned on August 26th at Hollywood Casino.

“It’s some of the most beautiful grounds there in the world,” he explains, “and when I asked them [Hollywood Casino] and Live Nation about doing a show there, and we got it approved, it was an amazing day.” Michaels continues: “I did a press conference there, and I went out and walked the grounds and figured out how I’m gonna build this little ‘inner city,’ like a carnival of awesomeness, I called it. We’re going to make an entrance, we’re going to bring everything, including the food and taste of central PA, and make this much more than a concert, just a great experience.” For those still in need of tickets for the show, visit www.hollywoodpnrc.com.

Finally, just to reinforce how philanthropic Michaels is: without hesitation, he recently agreed to donate a custom guitar that will be auctioned off at Harrisburg Magazine’s annual Simply the Best Gala, August 31st at the Penn Harris in Camp Hill, with proceeds benefiting the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society. Save the date, everyone … because as Michaels teased himself, “I will be there, if time allows.” 7

Glossner & McElwee Comprehensive Dental Care prioritizes teamwork and community-driven service - guiding factors that earn them the distinction of serving as one of Central P.A.’s most influential businesses. The doctors, Dr. Tad Glossner, Dr. Patrick McElwee, and Dr. Rebecca French, work together to provide the kind of service that has built their respected 30+ yearrunning practice, which prides itself on treating patients like family. Glossner and McElwee, who not only work together but boast a longstanding friendship, bonded through coaching baseball and enjoying the game similarly. Their experience in sports has taught them to work with the rest of the staff as a team, emphasizing the role of each member complementing and supporting one another. From their friendship they also have refined their active listening and communication skills – some of the most crucial qualities to seek in a dentist. These qualities have cemented Glossner & McElwee as one of the most highly recommended dental practices in the local community.

Dr. Glossner Dr. French Dr. McElwee

Frank & Barbara Pinto, Harrisburg's Love Couple!

Back in 2018, Harrisburg Magazine proclaimed Frank and Barbara to be “the un-official couple of love for Dauphin County,” and with five more years of hosting dozens of weddings at the historic Peter Allen House,they have only solidified that position. It’s for good reason that they’ve been Voted “Simply the Best” Wedding Venue (and hosts) for 21 consecutive years, and two-time winners of the WeddingWire’s Couples’Choice awards: no one in Central PA does a better job at weaving the majesty and elegance of the past with the magic and romance of the present, providing the kind of all-inclusive experience – from decor, centerpieces, decorations, tables, chairs, and trellises,to use of their vintage Rolls-Royce – that makes brides blush with joy and grooms beam with confidence. Married this year for 44 years, and with 25 of those years devoted to making everyone’s most special day spectacular, it goes without saying that Frank and Barbara are truly two of Central PA’s most loved and influential people.

A community’s strength is demonstrated in the ways in which it cares for its most vulnerable. Terese M. DeLaPlaine, JD, is a passionate person working in our community today to help provide life-changing care for those most in need. Recently instated as CEO of Harrisburg’s Hamilton Health Center, a Federally Qualified Health Care Center (FQHC) that has been providing a range of low-cost, accessible healthcare services since 1969, DeLaPlaine brings years of leadership experience at organizations serving the medical needs of the disadvantaged. With her Juris Doctorate (JD) from Syracuse University, she previously served eight years as the Chief Compliance Officer for Hamilton Health, preceded by her work as Chapter Executive to two Northeastern PA chapters of the American Red Cross and as CEO to NEPA Community Healthcare, another FQHC. DeLaPlaine is a behind-the-scenes hero ensuring the organization continues to provide crucial, quality healthcare services to those in need at their locations in Harrisburg, Union Deposit, Newport (Perry County), Millersburg, and soon Steelton, and as such certainly deserving a shot at the title of “Most Influential Person.”

Terese M. DeLaPlaine, JD

She is the first African American woman to own and operate an internal medicine & wellness practice in Harrisburg, but Dr. Jatto’s efforts to help patients achieve a balanced, healthy lifestyle extend beyond the capital’s city limits. A multi awardwinning aesthetic physician and mental health leader, with advanced training from the Esthetic Skin Institute in the areas of Injector Botox, Filler, PDO Threads, Body Contouring Treatment, Integrative Weight Loss Management and Wellness, Dr. Jatto continuously strives to utilize lifestyle medicine as the core of every treatment protocol and makes wellness achievable for every Central Pennsylvanian. Dr. Jatto is truly one of PA’s Most Influential People!

The history of Zimmerman Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning is one of hard work, integrity, and community involvement. Founder Earnie Zimmerman has long prided himself on being a support for his faithful customers, who have learned that they’ve been able to rely on him for more than 40 years, and his dedicated team, of nearly 50-strong. And that strength shines day after day, in the uncompromising way the Zimmerman team strives to make homes throughout Central PA safer and more comfortable. Earnie, along with his established management team, Jason Koons, Chris Murk, and Tim Kortze, and skilled team of experts showcase their award-winning work ethic. It’s no surprise, they’ve been winners of “Simply the Best” honors for 16 years since 2005! As members of 3 Chambers of Commerce, the Mechanicsburg Rotary Club, multiple professional organizations, and supporters of many area nonprofits, it’s clearly about being “local” for Zimmerman, one of Central PA’s most influential businesses.

JATTO WELLNESS CENTER

Phone: (717) 553-2474

JATTO INTERNAL MEDICINE

Phone: (717) 327-4448

2205 Forest Hills Dr Ste 12 Harrisburg, PA 17112

Claudette Gbemudu-Jatto, M.D., F.A.C.P.

Zimmerman Team: Ed Fickes, Jr., Chris Murk, Josh Trayer, Scott Mease, Jason Koons, Tim Kortze, Eric Stambaugh, Matt Behrendt, Barb Moffitt, Earnie Zimmerman, & Alicia Cramer

Best in the Business: Pennsylvania Chamber of Business and Industry’s “Coolest Thing Made in PA” Takes the Commonwealth by

The NCAA men’s basketball tournament is one of the most exciting competitions in sports. Fans love filling out brackets each March, competing against friends and family to see whose picks prevail, and rooting for their favored teams to make it to the championship round. It was in that spirit that the PA Chamber saw a new opportunity this past spring to showcase Pennsylvania-made brands and engage Pennsylvanians in good-spirited rivalries, launching its own bracket-style competition to determine the “Coolest Thing Made in PA.” As we would learn, Pennsylvanians are among the most passionate fans in the country when it comes to the companies and products they love – and for good reason. The Keystone State boasts some of the best brands in business.

Taking a cue from a similar contest by the Indiana Chamber each fall, the PA Chamber decided to pit companies with a Pennsylvania presence against one another in a bracket-style competition in which the public voted via Twitter polls for their favorite Pennsylvania-made product. In our own unique twist, we launched our competition at the same time March Madness was taking place, adding to the excitement. In addition to the obvious bragging rights, we determined that the PA Chamber’s inaugural “Coolest Thing Made in PA” champion would be honored at the PA Chamber’s 2024 Annual Economic Summit in the presence of statewide business leaders and elected officials. PA Chamber staff internally determined which member and non-member companies would be among the inaugural 32 “Coolest Thing Made in PA” contestants – making sure to include regional and industry diversity in the field – and randomly seeded participants against one another.

Storm

Story by Lindsay Andrews

“We included the classic brands that many people think of when they think of Pennsylvania. We included Pennsylvania-made steel, Hershey’s Kisses, Zippo lighters, and Crayola crayons,” PA Chamber President and CEO Luke Bernstein said. “And, people voted with their stomachs, as Yuengling lager, Mrs. T’s pierogies, and Primanti Bros. sandwiches were clear early favorites.”

“One thing we realized at the outset,” Bernstein added, “based on the number of Tweets we received about products that were not included, was that we need to expand the field to 64 next year!”

Turning Out on Twitter

The PA Chamber announced the competition and participating companies in a press release on March 13. The first round of voting kicked off at noon the next day and ran for three days on Twitter – and participation was nothing short of astounding. Just 24 hours into the contest, more than 10,000 votes were cast. In addition to the incredible social media response, news outlets statewide were also getting in on the fun, reporting on the contest across radio, television, and newspaper outlets.

In a press release issued on the second day of voting, Bernstein commented about the overwhelming immediate response and wondered where the results would lead.

“We are incredibly excited to see the immediate outpouring of positive responses … Will it be the Sheetz MTO or the Astrobotic lunar lander? Hershey’s Kisses or Aurora self-driving cars? Pennsylvania has some of the most famous and

beloved brands in the nation, and we can’t wait to see who comes out on top.”

As the competition narrowed over a three-week time frame (from March 14-31), the PA Chamber issued a statewide press release at the start of each week announcing the remaining competitors and the start date and time of the next rounds. Each round was also heavily promoted on social media by the PA Chamber, participating companies, and media outlets.

Contestants sometimes became the focus of the story. For instance, a semi-final face-off between neighboring companies Yuengling lager and Mrs. T’s pierogies became known as the “Battle of Schuylkill County,” prompting social media comments between the respective fan bases. In the final round on April 3, Mrs. T’s and its loyal “#PierogySquad” of followers took on the Pittsburgh-based Primanti Bros. sandwich for a closely watched championship, with Primanti Bros. winning with 53 percent of the vote. And, in an action befitting a company that just won the “Coolest Thing Made in PA” title, the Primanti Bros. restaurant celebrated its victory by treating its customers to a free beer at every location across Pennsylvania on April 5.

Sweet Success

The PA Chamber celebrated its inaugural “Coolest Thing Made in PA” contest as a resounding success. It fulfilled the PA Chamber’s two goals –first, it familiarized more Pennsylvanians with the PA Chamber; and second, it gave the PA Chamber an opportunity to elevate Pennsylvania and its brands as the advocacy organization works to position the commonwealth as the ideal place to

locate, grow, and expand business. All told, the contest generated more than 32,000 Twitter votes, more than one million social media impressions, 60 stories across digital and print media, and 50 across broadcast news that reached approximately 1.2 million people.

And, the marketing value and engagement it attracted was completely organic – a testament to the simple power of a great idea catching fire across social and traditional media.

“We could not have been more thrilled with how the contest played out and the response it received,” Bernstein said. “We also made the early, easy decision to ask the public who they want to see added to the field when we expand to 64 companies in next year’s contest. There’s no denying that Pennsylvania brands are the best in the business. We were glad that this fun, engaging contest showed the world what we already knew.”

The Contestants

Asher’s Chocolate Pretzels

Asher’s is among Pennsylvania’s most beloved chocolate-making brands. Family-owned since 1892, Asher’s has been putting out delicious signature chocolate treats for five generations –and its chocolate-smothered pretzels are one of the Souderton, PA-based-company’s best-sellers. https://ashers.com/

Astrobotic Lunar Robots

To the Moon! If space is your final frontier, Astrobotic Technology wants to get you there. The company, headquartered in Pittsburgh, is in the business of delivering instruments, technologies, ideas, and new ways of living to the moon and beyond. This year, it will send the first U.S. spacecraft to the Moon since the Apollo. https:// www.astrobotic.com/

Aurora Self-Driving Cars

The future of driving innovation is in automated vehicles, and Aurora is a leader in the field. Aurora’s presence in Pittsburgh made them an easy choice for the “Coolest Thing Made in PA” contest, as the company specializes in self-driving technology that won’t only increase efficiency and mobility on America’s roads but will move people and goods more safely, too. https://aurora.tech/

Channellock Pliers

Made in Meadville since 1886, Channellock Pliers get the job done for all types of hands-on projects. The company prides itself on having pioneered the original Tongue and Groove pliers for hardworking Americans who Channellock continues to support today by manufacturing a product by the same rigorous standards, each and every time. https:// channellock.com/

Coherent Lasers

A global leader in lasers for industrial, communications, electronics, and instrumentation markets, Coherent Corporation is headquartered in Saxonburg but operates in more than 20 countries worldwide. From automotives to healthcare, optics to thermoelectrics, and more, Coherent’s client base spans industries in pursuit of a better life for future generations. https://www.coherent.com/

Crayola Crayons

Who hasn’t had the joyful childhood experience of holding and coloring with a Crayola crayon? This global brand is a featured item in households and classrooms alike, and its crayons are famously made in the Lehigh Valley, just as they were when they first rolled off the assembly line in 1903. The high-quality, affordable wax crayon is such a “draw” (see what we did there?) that there’s even an incredible tourist attraction! The Easton-based Crayola Experience is a family must-see. https:// www.crayola.com/

Dalessandro’s Cheesesteaks

The sandwich that recently came out on top in the Philadelphia Inquirer’s own search for the best cheesesteak – in the birthplace of cheesesteaks –had to make our list. The ingredients are simple, but the Dalessandro’s team knows that quality is key. For us, it’s wiz wit! https://dalessandros.com/

Duolingo Language Learning App

Did you know that one of the most downloaded education apps in the world is headquartered in Pittsburgh? Duolingo was founded in 2011 and launched in 2012. It has since become the most popular way to learn a variety of languages around the globe. Tres chouette, n’est pas? https://www. duolingo.com/

Eat’n Park Smiley Cookies

That there’s literally a smiley face cookie above the logo should tell you all you need to know about the popularity of the Eat’n Park smiley-face cookie. It’s a staple at the end of one of the restaurant’s home-cooked meals, and an iconic symbol that brings happiness to customers. What’s even better – the chain donates almost half a million of those cookies every year to support community events and fundraisers. Now that’s something to smile about. https://www.eatnpark.com/

Harley Davidson Motorcycles

Is there anything cooler than the thought of getting on a Harley and driving on the open road? This classic, American motorcycle company has been producing bikes and parts out of a vehicle operations factory in York since 1973. Visitors to the facility can take a tour and even get a behindthe-scenes look at the people, processes, and products – right on down to witnessing how every motorcycle is tested prior to shipping out to its proud new owner. https://www.harley-davidson. com/

Hershey’s Kisses

As perhaps the most instantly recognizable candy in America (or even the world?), the Hershey Kiss was first produced by Milton Hershey and the candy company bearing his name in 1907 – and it’s still made here today! Fun fact: The delectable, bite-sized chocolate used to be wrapped by hand, including the small tissue paper identification tag inside the foil wrapper (did you know that’s called a “plume”?) before the process was automated. Read more about the history and legend of the worldfamous Hershey’s Kiss and grab some recipes here: https://www.hersheyland.com/kisses

Lockheed Martin Spacecraft

As a global engineering and innovation company, Lockheed Martin touches many industries –including space exploration! King of Prussia and Newtown are both home to Lockheed Martin’s breakthrough space technology development that includes state-of-the-art lunar and deep space capabilities. https://www.lockheedmartin.com/

Martin’s Potato Rolls

The famously tasty Martin’s Potato Roll is made in Chambersburg. Known for its fresh-from-thebakery taste, the company allows no more than four days for its product to remain on store shelves – though it flies off before the allotted time, anyway! Dubbed the No. 1 branded potato roll in the U.S., Martin’s has become the foundation of some of the nation’s premier sandwiches –including the famous Shake Shack burger. Yum! https://potatorolls.com/

Martin & Co. Guitars

A Martin isn’t just a guitar – it’s playable history, stretching back to 1833. From its humble origins around campfires in the Civil War to the hands of musical greats including Gene Autry, Hank Williams, Muddy Waters, Willie Nelson, and more, a Martin guitar is a musical work of art proudly produced out of a beautiful, historic factory in Nazareth. Check out factory tours, visit the company’s museum, and purchase one of the beautifully handcrafted guitars on the Martin & Co. website: https://www.martinguitar.com/

Meta’s the Metaverse

Meta, formerly the Facebook company, has changed the way the world connects, finds communities, and grows businesses. It now boasts a strong presence in Pittsburgh, where a crucial segment of the company’s Reality Labs team is based, developing lifelike avatars that allow people to interact in virtual reality as naturally as they would in the real world. Think about being in Harrisburg and watching a movie with your friend in Seattle as if in the same room. The future is being brought to life in the Steel City! https:// about.meta.com/

Mrs. T’s Pierogies

A pillowy dumpling filled with savory or sweet fillings, pierogies are a Pennsylvania classic – and

no other brand is more well known for making them than Mrs. T’s. Born 65 years ago out of a kitchen in Shenandoah, the family-owned business is now the largest provider of pierogies in the country. Its following is so loyal, in fact, that Mrs. T’s Twitter supporters (dubbed the “pierogy squad”) powered the brand all the way to the championship round in the “Coolest Thing Made in PA” contest, coming in a close second. https:// www.mrstspierogies.com

Musselman’s Applesauce

Musselman’s is a PA tradition of neighbors helping neighbors supply fresh, home-grown fruit for a great-tasting product. Since 1907, Musselman’s has been making applesauce (along with apple butter and apple juice) as part of a cooperative of 100 farming families across 15,000 acres of fruit orchards. https://www.musselmans.com/

PA-Made Steel

Steel is just one of those products that comes to mind when you think “made in PA” – we even have a professional football team bearing the name! Several companies make steel in Pennsylvania for domestic and international use – U.S. Steel, the Ellwood Group, Cleveland Cliffs, Tenaris, and ATI among them. No matter your loyalty to any of the products on this list, steel has long been among the coolest things made in PA.

Pampers Baby Diapers

Consistently rated among the best diapers in America for reliability and safety, parents the world over choose Pampers diapers, many of which are made at Procter & Gamble’s Mehoopany plant, the company’s largest manufacturing site in the U.S. It’s not just the diapers, but the company’s promise to infant and maternal health that had us place the diaper in our contest. https://www. pampers.com/

Pixelle Microwaveable Popcorn Bags

Pixelle Specialty Solutions is the largest, fastestgrowing manufacturer of specialty papers in North America, making the paper products that we use every day – including in our snack purchases! Next time you place a popcorn bag in the microwave, consider that the bag was likely made just down the road in picturesque Spring Grove, along with many other household paper products. The plant and its long-term presence in the Keystone State were the subject of a recent story in the PA Chamber’s member-centric blog, The Current. https://www.pixelle.com/

PPG Paints and Coatings

Founded in 1883 as Pittsburgh Plate Glass, today PPG is a global supplier of paints, coatings, optical products, and specialty materials that leads in innovation, sustainability, and color across a variety of industries. Even though PPG is a global entity, it still calls Pittsburgh home and employs 17,000 people in the U.S. and Canada. https:// www.ppg.com/

Primanti Bros. Sandwich

The champions! When the “Coolest Thing Made in PA” contest kicked off, the Primanti Bros. social media team hit the ground running with a picture of Toni, the restaurant’s manager and brand ambassador, flexing an Arnold Schwarzeneggersized muscle at the prospect of facing off against the competition. The company continued with a series of engaging and hilarious posts that got its fan base in the game and generated votes. The result? A 2023 “Coolest Thing Made in PA” title, thanks to social media prowess and the delicious combination of meat and slaw between two thick layers of Italian bread. https://primantibros.com/

Rock Lititz Super Bowl Stage

If you were in awe of the floating platforms that Rihanna and her dancers performed on during the Super Bowl LVII halftime show, you can thank Lititz-based production company Rock Lititz. The company built the platforms and coordinated the rigging that held everything together. This production team shines bright like a diamond! https://www.rocklititz.com/home

Rutter’s Iced Tea

On a hot day, few beverages are more refreshing than a Rutter’s iced tea. The York-based company’s distinctive, popular line of original and flavored iced teas are sold by the gallon or individual bottle, synonymous with summertime, and available at a PA grocer or Rutter’s near you. https://www. ruttersdairy.com/

Seltzer’s Lebanon Bologna

Nestled in the quaint town of Palmyra, Seltzer’s meats have been smoked the same way for over a century – in tall, wooden smokehouses over hand-tended fires. Lebanon bologna is prepared with Pennsylvania Dutch quality and pride in an area in Pennsylvania where “good food and plenty of it” has long been a way of life. https://www. seltzerssmokehousemeats.com/

Sheetz MTO

You can’t go very far in Pennsylvania without finding a Sheetz. The Altoona-based, family-owned convenience store chain has grown by leaps and bounds since its founding in 1952. The store’s food program is famous – and its Made to Order, or MTO, sandwich – is among the most popular items. During the contest, the company assembled its “Sheetz freakz” fan base to vote for Sheetz – and the MTO made it all the way to the semifinals. https://www.sheetz.com/

Troegs Nugget Nectar

In the world of craft brewing, beer enthusiasts nationwide are familiar with Troegs’ offerings –and Nugget Nectar is among its most famous. The dry-hopped imperial amber ale is offered each year between January and March, featuring a combination of flavors including grapefruit, pine, mango, and creamsicle. If you haven’t tried it yet … hop to it. https://troegs.com/beer/nugget-nectar/

Utz Potato Chips

Bill and Salie Utz started the Utz snack company in their Hanover kitchen in 1921, making about 50 pounds of potato chips an hour. That classic, beloved recipe and the recognizable bag with the cartoon little girl has propelled the company to where it is today – a national chain that produces more than 3.3 million pounds of snacks per week (about half of which are potato chips) with no plans of slowing down. https://www.utzsnacks. com/

Wabtec Locomotives

Locomotives are powerful, incredible machines, and Pittsburgh-based Wabtec is in the business of manufacturing them and their components – along with other rail and transportation solutions that are improving safety, efficiency, and productivity for businesses of all industries around the globe. https://www.wabteccorp.com/

York Barbell

A drive down I-83 South takes you past the famous York Barbell company headquarters, with the strongman lifting the barbell over his head. York Barbell specializes in manufacturing and distributing quality strength and fitness products that enhance athletic performance and improve customers’ quality of life. It’s a business philosophy that sums up the mission advanced by York Barbell’s founder – the weightlifting champion Bob Hoffman – when he opened the company’s doors in 1932. https://yorkbarbell.com/

Yuengling Lager

The rich, amber lager from America’s oldest brewery is an American classic, and no “Coolest Thing Made in PA” list would be complete without it. Yuengling beer has been brewed in Pottsville since 1829, and its famous taste – a roasted caramel malt with a subtle sweetness – has led to its rise in popularity across the nation. https:// www.yuengling.com/

Zippo Lighters

Durable, refillable, and built for a lifetime of use, Zippo lighters have been wonderfully made in Bradford since the 1930’s. Whether it’s the classic steel look or any variety of unique, artisanal designs, there’s a perfect Zippo for every customer. https://www.zippo.com/ 7

Luke Bernstein making a Primanti Bros sandwich

Fireworks Safety!

While many of us have enjoyed firework displays the past few weeks, the United States Consumer Product Safety Commission reports more than 70% of all firework injuries occur in the weeks surrounding the Fourth of July holiday. In 2021, approximately 11,500 people were treated in emergency departments across the country because of injuries sustained from fireworks. In addition to those injured, nine people unfortunately lost their lives.

Understanding the safety concerns associated with fireworks and the local and state regulations are important in keeping everyone safe. Please adhere to these safety tips when using fireworks:

● Never hold, point or throw fireworks in the direction of others.

● Never try to re-light a firework; rather, allow some time to pass before approaching.

● Never light more than one firework at a time.

● Keep a close eye on children as well as your pets.

● Do not drink alcohol or engage in drug use when lighting fireworks.

● Ensure you have a:

○ Designated viewing area away from the fireworks.

○ Garden hose nearby.

Additional safety tips and guidelines can be found on Pennsylvania’s Ready PA website – ready.pa.gov

Public displays of fireworks are held in many towns throughout our region. Instead of risking your safety or the safety of those around you, please consider attending sponsored firework displays that are closely monitored and facilitated by trained professionals.

Keeping these things in mind can help all of us have a safe summer. 7

Robert Stakem is executive director of the Senator John J. Shumaker Public Safety Center at HACC, Central Pennsylvania’s Community College.

THIS CIDER HOUSE RULES!

Story by Randy Gross and Imogene Gross rgross@harrisburgmgazine.com, imogene@harrisburgmagazine.com

Photos by Imogene Gross

“And above all, watch with glittering eyes the whole world around you because the greatest secrets are always hidden in the most unlikely places. Those who don’t believe in magic will never find it.” -Roald

Dahl

For anyone visiting Grand Illusion Hard Cider in Carlisle, PA for the first time, it doesn’t take long before Dahl’s words ring true. First, and the most obvious to the most random passerby, is the notion of a cider bar – the city’s first and only – serving cold pints of hard cider inside a refurbished three-story brick relic from the 1840’s. Then what hits you immediately thereafter is the behemothic owl face painted, over the stairs, in purple (or what the owners call “expressive plum”); followed by a hint of the whimsical in the strategically placed infinity mirrors on the landing, and the purposely installed “hidden bathroom” on the second floor. There is magic in the air at 26 West High Street, and it’s no secret to anyone who’s been there on a Monday night! But more about that later.

When owners Chad and Andrea Kimmel opened the doors to Grand Illusion in February of 2018, they were definitely seeing the future through “glittering eyes.” But not even they could have imagined just how much “magic” would live inside the walls of their cidery, and just how soon Central Pennsylvania would be discovering that the many secret joys of Grand Illusion are no illusion.

Chad Kimmel’s inspiration in founding the business was to contribute to the revitalization of Downtown Carlisle. He and his family live nearby to the city and wanted to invest in the community. And he wanted this community feature to be distinctive from the start, drawing from turn-of-the-century magic posters, like those used by performers to promote their shows. “The imagery, and the colors, the excitement, the fonts of those early posters inspired the brand,” Kimmel comments. While the business has kept

these visions at heart, some of Kimmel’s other intentions for Grand Illusion were a bit different from what it has become. But these are happy accidents. For instance, originally Kimmel hoped to produce his own cider blends in-house. He had to abandon this plan due to the difficulties of hiring dedicated staff to produce the small, craft batches the tasting room would need, or owning and operating an entire production line, which were not appealing to him. He preferred to focus on the building and the creation of an experience, and in 2018, he entered a contract with York County brewery Wyndridge Cider to produce their cider blends.

But that doesn’t mean Grand Illusion doesn’t take its cider seriously. In fact, it’s unique in its devotion to cider. With cider only occupying about 1% of the nation’s alcohol sales, Kimmel turned to it as a differentiation element. His staff, all of whom are Cider Certified (a designation of expertise by the American Cider Association) as a requirement for the job, serve up the recipes Kimmel devises, tests, and has produced by Wyndridge Cider, with passion. Grand Illusion serves eight of its original cider blends and two original wines, but it also stands out due to its diversity of other local brands. They are the only cider bar in Pennsylvania to serve ciders other than their own, and they also feature wines, beers, mead, and nonalcoholic sodas from local producers. All their beverages are on tap to ensure optimal freshness - even, as Kimmel is passionate to highlight, the wines. Storing and serving wine from kegs, rather than bottles, he asserts, preserves a consistent level of freshness, and as such they only partner with wineries who do. And all this attention to detail has paid off: last year, they finished in fifth place in USA Today’s travel award contest for best cidery – out of over 800 cideries in the U.S., and about 60 in PA. Its fans, who helped vote the business into the top ten, are “proud to be part of something that is recognized throughout the nation,” says Kimmel.

With its fans’ desires at heart, Grand Illusion provides a host of exciting and unusual diversions. First, perhaps their biggest mainstay, are their tableside magic performances by their house magician, Kyle Purnell. Every table is given a card to indicate whether they want magic, and Purnell canvasses the whole building, giving short performances to each and every willing group. You can witness the magic yourself on any Monday night, from 6 to 8.

Another popular feature are the escape rooms. When Kimmel bought it originally, he was unsure about the expanse of the historic building (Carlisle’s first pressed brick structure – look for a wall display detailing the place’s history to be unveiled soon), but eventually found it to be a blessing, as the third floor allowed space for two escape rooms. Currently the two themes are The Munsters and 1980s toys (specifically, Teddy Ruxpin).

Monthly, Grand Illusion hosts bingo and trivia, and quarterly they feature Murder Mystery and Drunk History nights. Occasionally they feature painting nights, and every Friday the 13th they deck the place out in “bad luck” symbols: ladders, black cats, and open umbrellas.

Of course, October is huge! Among other things, that month they host performances by Edgar Allen Poe impersonators, which always sell out. “I love the theatre side of it,” muses Kimmel. “A lot of what we do is theater, from our service, and the customer experience, and the atmosphere. You know, we want it to be fun, and friendly, and whimsical - magical.”

During our visit to Grand Illusion, we, of course, couldn’t resist trying the cider. The cidery offers flights of up to six different drinks, which include pretty much everything they sell by the glass, so it’s a great option if you’re not sure what to try. We ordered a rainbow of four Grand Illusion ciders, one non-house, local, cider, and the cidery’s mead selection. Of the Grand Illusion’s originals we tried – Blue Illusion, London Pub Cider, Spellbound, and Pearanormal our favorite was Spellbound, a delicately sweet chocolate cherry cider, which originally was a seasonal limited-run, back by popular demand. A close second for us was the London Pub Cider, a bright, dry cider, simple and classic. The nonhouse cider, Spiced Curveball by Hardball Cider, was also delightful, with a warming, but not overpowering, embrace of mulling spices. Murry’s Mead by Arsenal was a fabulous

change of pace. Mead, an alcohol made by fermenting honey, is even more niche than cider, so it was our first time trying one. It could be thought of as honey wine; the floral notes of honey, as well as a dessert-y sweetness definitely come through in this pick.

To complement our sampling of ciders and mead, we ordered another flight (of what we were advised was the most popular food item): a selection of three soft pretzel sticks. Each has different seasonings – one is plain salt, another Cajun seasoning, and another Italian, and they are in turn served with three dipping sauces: honey mustard, beer cheese, and garlic parmesan.

Although Grand Illusion does not house a full-service kitchen, they offer a crowd-pleasing array of appetizers, salads, sandwiches, flatbreads, and desserts. Kimmel recommends the open-faced beef brisket, another popular item.

As for the cidery’s future? Kimmel mainly plans to keep going as he has been – cultivating a fun and offbeat environment that guests keep coming back to. He’s a busy man, after all – in addition to managing the business,

he’s a professor of sociology at Shippensburg University, and a father. He is considering renting out licensing for Grand Illusion cider to other businesses – businesses that want to serve alcohol but cannot afford a liquor license, for example, or a person who “wants to open up a concept but needs the added value of alcohol,” as Kimmel explains. But in the meantime, he’ll keep up with the quirky, charming business model, to which Grand Illusion owes its success. And customers can keep coming back for their little bit of magic. It’s certainly worked well so far. 7

Check out Grand Illusion’s menu and schedule of upcoming events at www. grandillusioncider.com

PAMad e in C rtne la P A

If You’re in the Ice Cream Industry, Pennsylvania is the Place to Be!

The story of ice cream in America has to begin with Dolley Madison, renowned as the White House hostess for not one but two U.S. Presidents, first for widower Thomas Jefferson, under whom her husband served as Secretary of State, and subsequently for President James Madison himself.

Raised in a prominent Quaker family, young Dolley was the belle of the first U.S. capital, Philadelphia. When her first husband, John Todd, died in the 1793 Yellow Fever epidemic after just three years of marriage, at age 26 she was introduced by her lawyer, Aaron Burr, to Congressman James Madison, a bachelor 17 years her senior, and was married. Their elegant house at 343 Walnut Street, just two blocks from the State House (now Independence Hall) and operated as a house museum by the National Park Service, was where Dolley got her start as a political hostess.

Dolley was adept at cultivating politicians on both sides of the aisle; she made sure that her parties were fun, and her signature dish was ice cream. Her specialty was oyster ice cream, made with sweet oysters, either from the Delaware River or from the Potomac, near Montpelier, the Madison estate in Virginia.

Tastes were very different in those days. Eighteenth-century cookbooks have recipes for artichoke, truffle, avocado, foie gras, and

parmesan cheese ice cream! Vanilla, it seems, was not popular at all at that time.

In the 20th century, Dolly (without the e) Madison Ice Cream was marketed by the same company that produced Hostess Twinkies, further immortalizing her link to ice cream.

The crank ice cream maker was invented in Philadelphia in 1843, enabling ice cream to evolve as something of a cottage industry in the mid-19th century, with ice cream parlors becoming a popular Victorian-era destination. Unlike bars, an ice cream parlor was an acceptable place for ladies and men to socialize together.

America’s oldest ice cream company is Bassetts, which, says sixth-generation family member Alex Bassett Strange, “got its start in 1861, when my great-great-great-grandfather started making ice cream by mule power. He would take his finished product to the farmers markets in Philadelphia, and due to popular demand, he opened a shop at 5th and Market Streets in 1885.”

When the Reading Terminal Market opened in 1892, the Bassetts opened a retail store there, and they (and their marble countertop) have been there ever since. Their manufactured product is highly regarded today as “Philadelphia-style” ice cream, made without egg yolks to accentuate the cream taste. They have a global customer base,

Story by David J. Morrison Photos Submitted

Hershey Creamery operated ice cream trucks beginning in the 1930s, especially in neighborhoods with lots of children. An elaborate sound system alerted and attracted customers as the truck approached.

shipping Bassetts ice cream to China, Korea, and Japan.

“Philadelphia is a historic hub for ice cream,” says Alex. “Many old-school ice cream brands and innovations have come from this city. If you’re in the ice cream industry, Pennsylvania is the place to be.” Another top ice cream producer based in Philadelphia is Breyers, founded in 1866.

Woolman Dairies was another brand with Quaker Philadelphia roots. Now a part of Sealtest, in the 20th century, it had a large manufacturing plant in West Philadelphia, not far from the dairy farms of Chester and Delaware Counties. It had a fleet of horse-drawn milk wagons that serviced neighborhoods throughout the city. Family member Joan Woolman Glenn recounts the calamitous day when a raging fire engulfed the horse barn.

“They had to let all the horses go, running loose on the streets. When they began finding them, they discovered that they had all gone to their respective milk routes, calmed by the familiar surroundings of the streets they walked each day.”

Central Pennsylvania, with a significant presence of dairy farming, has had a thriving ice cream industry for nearly as long as Philadelphia. But while an abundant source of fresh milk is essential to making ice cream, it also is an important ingredient in the making of milk chocolate, the snack globally popularized by chocolatier Milton S. Hershey. It is said that the milk of 5,000 dairy cows on farms surrounding Hershey was needed each day to produce milk chocolate at the rate of 100,000 pounds per day.

It was in 1894, a year after Milton Hershey saw an exhibition of chocolate making at the 1893 Columbian Exposition that he established the Hershey Chocolate Company. By uncanny coincidence, that very same year the Hershey Creamery Company was launched. Both companies were founded in Lancaster County; both subsequently relocated to Dauphin County,

The Hershey Creamery Company was founded by Jacob Hershey (no relation to Milton) and his four brothers, Isaac, John, Paris, and Eli. Originally operating out of their Lancaster County farmhouse, they packed their ice cream in metal-lined wooden containers of their own design.

In the 1920s, the company merged with the Holder family’s Bethlehem-based Meyer Dairy Company, retaining the Hershey name. In 1926, with demand for the ice cream exceeding the capacity of the farmhouse, the newly merged company constructed its first ice

cream plant in Harrisburg. That building still stands today on S. Cameron Street, supported by satellite facilities outside of Harrisburg.

Sharing such a famous name, and located just 15 miles apart, the two Hershey businesses were bound to experience confusion and conflict. The companies have had a “tumultuous” relationship marked by multiple lawsuits over trademark issues. In the mid-1990s, the companies settled their most recent legal battles out of court, with Hershey Creamery Company agreeing to add a disclaimer to its ice cream products to note that it is not affiliated with the Hershey Company.

Hershey’s product line includes hand-dipped and pre-packaged ice cream, and “novelties” (individually packaged cones, dessert cups, two types of ice cream sandwiches, and a variety of stick bars) that could be sold over the counter in small stores or on neighborhood streets from a small truck whose sound system alerted and attracted customers.

Whereas businesses such as Bassetts expanded their reach by marketing to institutional customers and convenience stores, Turkey Hill, headquartered in southern Lancaster County, has expanded by creating its own convenience stores, the Turkey Hill “Minit Markets” scattered across Pennsylvania and beyond. Turkey Hill ice cream is a signature product, with wide distribution in grocery stores nationwide and internationally. The company started making ice cream in 1954, having been in the milk business since 1931 when founder Armor Frey began selling milk to neighboring households. Turkey Hill also produces 20 varieties of iced teas, as well as other non-carbonated beverages. The name “Turkey Hill” references the spot named by Conestoga Indians for the property that Frey’s ancestors acquired from the sons of William Penn some 300 years ago.

That history, as well as the story of ice cream making, is told at the “Turkey Hill Experience,” a visitors’ center in a former 19thcentury silk mill in Columbia Borough. With interactive exhibits showing how ice cream is made, the attraction is popular with children and adults. Although not an actual factory, the Turkey Hill Experience was recently rated by Good Housekeeping as one of the top 10 factory tours in America.

One specialty ice cream product that is much beloved in the Harrisburg area is the “Farm Show Milkshake.” The PA Dairymen’s Association has been selling milkshakes at the annual Farm Show since January 1953. Like other agricultural trade organizations with stands at the Farm Show, they do this both

to promote the products of their industry and as a fundraiser, with proceeds benefiting agricultural scholarships, youth programs, hunger prevention and the PA Dairy Princess program.

Farm Show milkshakes are so highly regarded that it ultimately made sense to make them available not just during Farm Show week but in all seasons. Thus, the “Milkshakes on the Moo-ve” program was initiated whereby their milkshake stand may be requested for a community or corporate event. Meanwhile, a competing business simply titled “Farm Show Milkshakes,” established in 1916 by a group of Penn State grads with ties to Pennsylvania’s agricultural industry, sells milkshakes at local football games and charity events. The two entities are currently in a trademark dispute.

Starting out small like Armor Frey did in the early 20th century, ice cream entrepreneur Adam Brackbill launched “Urban Churn” in Harrisburg in the early 21st century, producing “all natural craft ice creams and desserts” inspired by cultures from around the world.

“Instead of your typical hot fudge sundae or banana split,” says Brackbill, “we offer desserts such as Lemon Bar Sundaes, Bourbon Banana Splits, Baklava Ice Cream Sandwiches, Tiramisu Sundaes and more.” Urban Churn has retail locations in Harrisburg, Mechanicsburg, and Carlisle.

Customers may pre-order limited edition flavors in pints (or larger) for quick pickup at any of the three stores. Urban Churn also can provide ice cream for special events. “We churn and offer any of our staple flavors packed in one to three gallons,” Brackbill says.

David J. Morrison is the executive director of Historic Harrisburg Association and a frequent contributor to Harrisburg Magazine. 7

Beach Dogs

The perfect vacation for many dog owners includes taking their dogs along on the adventure. I grew up vacationing on the New Jersey and Delaware beaches. But, we always had to leave our beloved German Shepherd in a kennel when we left. I remember our family dropping Sheba off at a loud, stinky kennel out in the country, where she would return to us looking skinny, dejected, and smelling like a farm animal. It made me sad to hear her bark in distress when we left her in the hands of strangers. Back then, there weren’t many options for dogs to join their humans on vacation, as most rental properties did not allow pets.

Today, on both coasts, dogs are everywhere on designated beaches and welcomed at several hotels and private rentals. Now, it is a common sight to see our four-legged friends romping in the waves, trotting alongside families, and taking in the fresh sea air. However, that kind of freedom does come with responsibility.

Before you book a pet-friendly rental, check which beaches allow dogs. While Delaware state park beaches allow dogs anytime, swimming and sunbathing areas require visitors with dogs to adhere to certain hours or times of the season. Dewey

Beach is a popular place for dog lovers. Dogs may only visit before 9:30 AM and after 5:30 PM from May 15th through September 15th, but the rest of the year, dogs are permitted at any time. Leashes are not required but be careful. Our dog, Darcy, was off leash on Dewey Beach and she ran away chasing waves with reckless abandon. We got her back quickly but learned that she was better off on a leash!

Though the beach is a great place to relax and have fun with your dog, always be aware of your surroundings. Dangers can pop up, so be prepared. If your dog does not come back to you when off leash, buy a 20-30’ cotton lead to maintain control while giving her a sense of freedom. Retractable leashes are dangerous if your dog suddenly bolts. They can be easily ripped out of your hand, or the cord can snap when the dog reaches the end at full speed. While not under control, your fearless pooch can get caught in a wave, harm wildlife, or intrude upon

other beachgoers. Remember, other dogs will be off leash too, so if your dog is not good with dogs, keep them at home.

When planning a beach getaway with your dog, bring extra towels, bedding, poop bags, grooming supplies, an umbrella or tent, food, and bowls. You’ll need fresh water, as drinking sea water can make dogs sick. For extra sun protection, apply a dog sunscreen to your pal because they can burn, too!

No matter where you take your pets in your travels, respect the rules of your rental unit and the local parks and beaches. Be a considerate guest and clean up after them inside and outside. Enjoy your summer adventures together! 7

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

By the Book/Michelle Haring

Finding Great Summer Reads

In a world dominated by discussions about Artificial Intelligence, reading can be the ultimate escape. Stories written by humans can transport readers to other places. For years, the task of finding compelling reads has been shaped by algorithms. Many authors’ careers erupted when their books were listed on a popular bookselling site as being “similar to” bestsellers. But what many don’t know is that the site auctions keywords to manipulate readers into buying “products related to this item,” rather than a human-generated recommendation.

There are various ways for readers to find compelling books that don’t involve algorithms. One method is by asking for recommendations. These recommendations can be in person or in various online fan groups, mostly Facebook. However, for the introverted reader, some light sleuthing eliminates the need to ask anyone what they enjoy. Central Pennsylvania is home to several lovely independent bookstores and a plethora

of delightful libraries which have shelves of recommendations and displays of interesting books that do not require a conversation. Bookstores and libraries regularly highlight books and authors on their social media.

Some people take their enjoyment in books and create Instagram pages about books. Book fans call these Instagram pages “Bookstagram.”

If a reader likes a specific genre, they can find other people who love to take pictures of books in that genre. Photographs of peoples’ book hauls are often things of beauty.

Perusing displays at Bookshop.org , designed and created to help independent bookstores succeed, is another great way to find new or popular recommendations. The site launched in January 2020, and books are the center of its mission. For bookstores that join  Bookshop. org , they are added to a list of bookstores that readers can select as their local bookstore. The bookstores create curated lists that are linked on the Bookshop pages, and a cookie in the

browser identifies the reader as that store’s customer and the store receives the profit from all the reader’s Bookshop purchases. In addition to  Bookshop.org , readers looking to support local independent bookstores through the purchase of Audiobooks can use Libro.fm

For readers who want to engage with fellow book lovers, independent bookstores and libraries provide a great place to talk about reading. Employees of bookstores usually love to discuss their favorites. Sometimes the difficulty can be limiting the conversation once people start talking about the books they are passionate about. Other customers in bookstores often offer their opinions when they hear someone discussing books they adore. Readers can also find recommendations and discussion through book clubs and author signings which are often listed on the bookstore’s website. For example, Cupboard Maker Books runs seven book clubs every month and usually several signings, as well. One of the events at Cupboard Maker Books

this summer is Bookstore Romance Day which is the entire weekend of Friday, August 18th, Saturday, August 19th, and Sunday, August 20th. Over twenty-five romance authors will be signing and talking about their books that weekend. This is the fifth year for Bookstore Romance Day, and several other Central Pennsylvania bookstores are also participating in various fashions. Book events like this one are a great way to talk to readers, authors, and booksellers. 7

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

Made In Central PA: The Millionaire Next Door

In the mid-1990’s, Thomas Stanley released his New York Times bestselling book, “The Millionaire Next Door.” In his book, Stanley profiles successful Americans and their rise to affluence, a process I often refer to as “Un-Assumptive Wealth.” Let’s look at the behaviors and tendencies of the Central Pennsylvania “millionaire next door.”

Live on Less Than You Make: Pay Yourself First

The first millionaire I met as a financial advisor was a long-haul truck driver. I often ask clients how they achieved their success and was very interested to hear what he had to share. He explained that his mentor told him to set up a savings target and pay himself first. He prioritized saving the agreed upon figure in the financial plan by establishing an automatic fund transfer every two weeks to coincide with his paycheck. In fact, he developed his monthly budget after he outlined his savings goal. Anytime he received a raise, 50% of the raise went to a financial goal such as increasing savings or debt reduction. He paid himself first.

Debt is a Powerful Tool: If Managed Correctly…

You’ve probably also heard Robert Kiyosaki, author of “Rich Dad Poor Dad,” proclaim that he loves debt. Or you’ve heard Grant Cardone, self-proclaimed Real Estate mogul, proudly outline how much debt he currently owes. While these individuals are highly successful, they are the outliers. In most cases, the everyday millionaire understands that debt can be a powerful financial tool, but it’s a slippery slope.

A financial advisor will tell you that there is good debt and there is bad debt. In my experience, self-made millionaires use debt sparingly and do not use debt for depreciating assets. For example, I consider a mortgage a good debt because it allows you to purchase a home and start building equity. Often a house is an appreciating asset. On the other hand, money owed on a credit card is what I would consider bad debt. Don’t get me wrong, I use credit cards to purchase things on Amazon due to the fraud protections afforded by Visa and Mastercard. There can also be a nice cash back feature associated with credit cards as

well. Whether I purchase a 10 lb slide hammer to remove the axle on my truck or new water bowls for my beagles, I pay the credit card’s balance in full each month because I cannot justify paying interest on a depreciating asset.

Play the Long Game: Un-Assumptive Wealth

Most of my clients are self-made millionaires, and very few have inherited their wealth. This isn’t limited to a specific career or income range. In fact, we have a very diverse client base ranging from professional services such as dentists and lawyers to skilled trades such as concrete services and plumbers. The most common mindset for these successful individuals was knowing that they’re playing the “long game.” Becoming wealthy isn’t a get rich quick scheme. Our most successful clients had a long-term vision. Often, a financial plan was used so that they could start attacking their goals, slowly over time.

Another common theme among unassumptive wealth is that those who do well are not trying to keep up with the Joneses. While there are many examples, I often see

un-assumptive wealth in the form of used vehicles with low mileage, rather than paying for a new vehicle. The cost savings can then be allocated to additional savings. Remember, compounding interest is the 8th World Wonder. Use time to your advantage and save early whenever possible to work towards becoming the Millionaire Next Door. 7

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

On the ‘hunt’ for delicious Nepali & Indian cuisine in Harrisburg

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

Momo Hunt is an Indian and Nepali restaurant and bar on Walnut Street in Harrisburg. The vibrant space features ample seating and a bar illuminated by colorful neon lights. The building has a history of being used by Indian restaurants. Our party remembered it as the former site of Aangan, an Indian restaurant. After Aangan, our server informed us that Peacock Indian Restaurant previously operated in the space that is now Momo Hunt. One Friday night, our group of anonymous diners settled into a booth to sample the menu.

For our appetizers, we stuck with Indian dining mainstays of pappadams and samosa chaat. The pappadams, thin and crispy wafers typically made from legumes, such as lentils, and flavored with salt and cumin seeds, were served with a sweet and spicy tamarind chutney, and were precisely as we expected - a light, crispy counterpoint to the other, more complex dishes. Even when our mains were served, an occasional bite of pappadam in between other bites was a nice palate cleanser. The samosa chaat, a North Indian street food, consisted of a samosa (deep fried spiced dumpling filled with potatoes and peas) smothered in chole (spicy chickpea curry), yogurt, and more tamarind chutney. This was my personal favorite of the dishes I sampled during our visit. The spicy and sweet flavors complemented each other well, and the toothsome texture of the samosa in the curry was excellent.

Although Indian restaurants are very popular in the area, there are fewer that specialize specifically in Nepali cuisine. Because nobody in our party has had much experience with this region’s food, we all took advantage of the opportunity to try something new and selected Nepali main courses, which were on the Momo Hunt Special section of the menu. Two of us, in keeping with the restaurant’s name, ordered momos, which are a type of steamed or fried dumpling with origins from the Himalayas. One diner ordered the Chicken Chili Momo. These momos, filled with spiced ground chicken, were fried and tossed in a hot chili-soy sauce, with whole red chiles, green bell peppers, and green onions. He described

the level of spice as “hot, but not too hot –the kind of hot that makes you want to keep eating them.” The other momo order was for the Chicken Jhol Momo. These momos, also filled with ground chicken, were steamed instead, and bathed in a rich, tomato-based curry spiced sauce. I ordered the Veg Thupka, a vegetarian option of a classic Himalayan soup with egg noodles. The soup came loaded with chickpeas, garden peas, onion, and potato, in a broth seasoned with turmeric and other spices that I associate with this region’s food. However, it was not overly spicy. I was surprised to find a sprinkle of what I think may have been black nori (seaweed) flakes garnishing my soup and adding just a hint of ocean flavor. As a sweet treat, I ordered a mango lassi, a yogurt-based smoothie, with my meal. I always recommend getting a lassi at an Indian restaurant, especially if you don’t handle spice well, as the dairy soothes the hot sensation.

All in all, we recommend Momo Hunt. It’s a great stop to try something new, if desired, or stick to takeout classics like Butter Chicken. Other menu offerings that we didn’t get to try this time include, of course, classic curries, their selection of lamb, chicken, shrimp, and paneer kabobs, a selection of naan breads and dosas, varieties of fried rice and biryani, and another Nepali dish, chaumin, a noodle dish which is related to Chinese chow mein. If you’re bringing along someone who isn’t a fan of Indian or Nepali cuisine, they even have chicken wings and French fries. And of course, although we didn’t get a chance to check out their bar, it’s a convenient spot if you want to carry on for after-dinner drinks. They also host an all-you-can-eat buffet Thursday-Sunday, perfect for sampling a wide range of their offerings. Overall, Momo Hunt offers a wellrounded menu, focusing on a core set of dishes that they do well, a laid-back atmosphere, and affordable prices. 7

Momo Hunt Restaurant & Bar is located at 3500 Walnut Street in Harrisburg. Closed Tuesdays. Open every other day from 11 am to 10 pm. Visit momohuntrnb.com to view the menu.

Confessions of a Harrisburg Film Festival Judge

There are famous film festivals around the globe. Festivals such as The Toronto Film Festival. The Venice Film Festival. The New York Film Festival. And of course, The Cannes Film Festival. But there is another, just as prestigious film festival that takes place every year. That would be the Harrisburg Film Festival, hosted by the fine folks over at Moviate. Okay, maybe it’s not quite as renowned as Cannes or Venice, but hey, it’s still a fun time.

I remember, back in the day, even before my wife and I were running Midtown Cinema (and while we were as well) I participated in the festival as a judge. I did this five years in a row, back in the day. The festival got entries from across the globe, but it was still highlighted by many local filmmakers. There were narrative films of course, and docs as well, but my favorites were always the experimental films.

I remember one film, about two or three minutes long, which was a beautiful array of red kaleidoscopic images running through the projector. The filmmaker actually put his own blood on the celluloid (back when celluloid was used more often than digital) and it made for a delightful few minutes of cinema.

One of my favorite memories of being a judge was when we screened a John Waters movie and the Baltimore auteur gifted each of the judges with a handmade cement sculpture of a burger. Yup. Apparently Mr. Waters collects fake food, and he made some himself as well. These were burgers, made out of cement, that were sculpted to look like a Big Mac, a Whopper, and other fast-food burgers. I have the Whopper at home on a shelf as I type these words.

Another fun time at the festival was when we screened Andy Warhol’s Chelsea Girls. To project it correctly, Caleb Smith of Moviate fame, and one of the founding fathers of the festival, placed two 16mm projectors next to each other, each holding a reel of Warhol’s cult classic. He started the right side, then started the left side 20 minutes later. The side-by-side imagery, just as Warhol had intended, was a remarkable feat of cinematic engineering as the two reels came together then split apart again (and again and again)

in weirdly perfect harmony. Nothing much really happened in the film, par for the course for Warhol, but I am fascinated by films that show nothing but the mundane. It’s cinema as ASMR. There were 106 people there when the lights went down. When the lights came up more than three hours later, there were just 24 of us cinema-loving stalwarts left in the screening room.

Yup. Good times indeed. I got to meet many talented filmmakers, including many from Central PA. My days of being a judge for the Harrisburg Film Festival were good times. It seems cinema is just part my

lifeblood, whether I put it on film literally or figuratively. That’s it gang. See ya at the movies! 7

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

After the Beat/Elena Rossetto

The “meaningful

This week I had the pleasure of talking to local musician Grace Mahar. Grace and I met in a packed candle-lit kitchen in Harrisburg on New Year’s Eve two years ago. In a room full of holiday spirit, she and her mom sang Christmas songs with their guitars. Grace’s voice immediately captured my attention with its unique timbre and fullness. Grace’s musical journey all began with her family’s love for music and culture. Her mother raised her on all genres of music ranging from classical to artists such as The Beatles, Tupac, and A Tribe Called Quest. Her father wrote beats for hip-hop songs and Grace alluded to a short-lived family band that all led to her pursuing her passion for music. Her journey to learning guitar began on a road trip with her mom and siblings where her mother brought along a guitar. The rest was history. Her fear and nerves drive her to play she says, stating, “it makes it more meaningful and honest.” Grace believes her shaky nerves help her create a unique sound and more compelling performance. At 20, she began going to local open mics to play and was

music of Grace Mahar

hungry to meet other local musicians. Those supportive local jams helped her learn and strengthened her as a performer. She loved the challenge of playing with different people because it taught her the important lesson that musicians who don’t know all the rules break them, creating more intriguing music. Vulnerability is her strength in performing and writing. “It’s not about you, it’s about who’s listening,” she says. In her writing she relies mainly on her senses, what she can hear, see, and earnestly feel in those moments. Her original song, “No Good For Me,” always makes her emotional because “music is feeling” she says. Grace’s main influence in writing is 1920s Country Swing music such as Bob Wills and the Texas Playboys, Hank Williams, and The Carter Family. She’s also fond of the classic fingerpicking style of guitar, using it often in her music. Grace has an old soul and a big heart for that aged twangy, romantic music. Initially inspired by The Cranberries, she’s currently learning yodeling to intertwine with her older music style and the music she writes with her local female-led folk group,

Cumberland Honey.

A little over a year ago Grace joined Cumberland Honey. The group consists of vocalists Virginia Masland (mandolin, fiddle), Steph Landis (bass), and Grace Mahar (guitar), and describes their sound as folk influenced with soul and a taste of bluegrass. Grace recalled first meeting them by seeing the duo play at Appalachian Brewing Company years ago and said after the set she wanted to play with them. She later got the chance to play as an opener for the duo, then ended up joining the group permanently after that. Writing and collaborating come naturally to the group. They seamlessly blend their unique vocal styles to create an authentic, one-of-a-kind sound. The trio’s power comes from the balanced and accented harmony in the group’s writing. Grace says that good harmony sounds like a train whistle and when the group’s harmonies are just right it’s “chu chu.”

Before Grace joined Cumberland Honey they released an EP, Stand Up, featuring 5 original songs. “Tonight You’re Mine” is my personal favorite for its beautiful and romantic orchestration. The group plays festivals, shows, and fundraisers all over PA with a focus on supporting their local community. Grace can also be found playing solo or with her partner, musician Shine Delphi, all over the Harrisburg area. You can follow Grace’s music on her Instagram @rahamecarg to find creative covers (featuring some snazzy kazoo) and also follow Cumberland Honey @cumberlandhoneypa, for new music and all upcoming show dates. 7

Elena Rossetto was born and raised in Mechanicsburg and has been a Harrisburg resident for over four years. She writes and plays live music with her indie rock band, The After Hours. With her vivacious passion for music, she fiercely believes in supporting the local music scene. After the Beat chases and aims to showcase the incredible local talent our community possesses.

and honest”

Can the long-distance thing work?

One of the best pieces of advice I’ve ever gotten as an aspiring-to-be-aconsistently-working actor is to go where the work is. When I was in my 20s and 30s, I was privileged enough to be able to do that. I try to share this advice with young people planning to pursue any discipline in theatre. There are contacts and friends to be made and (very) good work to be done all over the country. Acting (or design, or directing, or playwriting) does not live and die in New York City or Los Angeles. Those behemoths of the industry will still be there when you decide it’s time to take a swing at them.

Now that I’m in my mid-40s, married with a young child, I find that I am, by and large, unable to follow that piece of advice. I’m still an actor, but I have obligations that keep me in one place. But—have you seen the new seasons being announced? But–preschool! But—acting is my thing, man! But…but…but…

As you may already be aware, the southcentral Pennsylvania area is teeming with theatres, big and small. You’re probably also aware that the south-central Pennsylvania area is humongous. So, what happens when you live in Chambersburg but one of your bucket list roles is happening in Hershey? You’re in Camp Hill but Ephrata has the show you’re on fire for? Do you try your best to forget that you ever saw the audition notice? Do you sigh longingly and secretly resent whoever gets that part? Or do you audition, and damn the torpedoes?

In my opinion, the decision to audition for and participate in a far-flung show boils down to this: you can only do what you can do. It’s so simple when I see it in print. However, what an ambitious actor can do sometimes doesn’t match up with what they think they can do. A 75-minute commute each way doesn’t seem like much to me if the role that’s on the table is Madame de Merteuil in Dangerous Liaisons, or Mrs. Walker in The Who’s Tommy. This is where I would have to take a breath and remind myself that road hypnosis is a REAL THING. And so are gas prices. And so is my odometer, which just rolled over the 100K mark. And babysitters also need to get paid. And the young sir’s preschool days are Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays. And that I need to rest at some point each day.

(Honestly…I’d figure it out, somehow. If those two roles ever make themselves available to me, there is very little that would deter me from making it work.)

When you’re determined to make a longdistance showmance happen, here’s where another valuable piece of advice comes into

play: know your worth. If a company is willing to meet you where you are right now, to make allowances for the real lives of the talent they want, well, that’s a company worth collaborating with, and the odds are good that your experience will be one to cherish. 7

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.

“Coffee Is the Inspiration”: Barista-Bassist Fuels His Passion

Story by Imogene Gross, imogene@harrisburgmagazine.com

Nestled in the corner of Walnut and North 4th Streets is Denim Coffee’s small, cozy Harrisburg location, with an equally small staff of (currently) just 3 baristas. Denim Coffee is a small, local coffee chain headquartered in Chambersburg. They are a certified example of Made in PA - in fact, all of their coffees are roasted in their Chambersburg facility, and all baked goods sold in stores are baked there, too. Denim’s Harrisburg location is a hub for creative, motivated, and entrepreneurial spirits –including barista-bassist Jake Gendron.

Gendron has worked for Denim since October of last year, but his career in coffee goes back further. He’s had, by his estimation, four or five years of experience as a barista. He started out with Starbucks, in his home state of Colorado. Although he grew up there, he moved to the Harrisburg area about five years ago. In his free time, he enjoys going out and exploring the city, or nearby cities.

In fact, he often commutes to Baltimore, where his band is based, for rehearsals and performances. He joined The Edge of Desolation, a heavy metal band, or more specifically, according to their Spotify, “a mix of old school deathcore and slam rhythms,” as a bassist about two months ago. Although he has played in various other bands over the years, he had trouble finding a group of other musicians who were as serious about music as he was – which is why he is excited to work with The Edge of Desolation. “They’re businessminded about it,” he says of his bandmates’ attitudes toward the music industry, “we all come to a consensus on decisions, we all talk about stuff, we all get to work on stuff really well.” They run the band, not only as their passion, but as their livelihood, as Gendron asserts. The band performs at venues in their radius (occasionally in Harrisburg!), records and releases singles to streaming platforms, and are beginning merch sales for their fans. Denim places the emphasis on the quality of their coffee first. They have certainly not skimped on their espresso set-up: the espresso bar is built into the countertop, and it uses some of the most advanced coffee technology on the market, pulling espresso shots ground

Photos by Paul Vasiliades

and brewed by exact weight with specially filtered and mineralized water. The flavor of their single-origin roasts is emphasized by the small menu, which focuses on the basics: you’ll find all the classic coffees you would expect at a café, such as lattes, cappuccinos, americanos, cold brew, drip, and pour-over coffee. The base drinks are not too elaborate, so as to let the complexities of the coffee shine through and allow for customizations. Gendron hypes up the quality of their plain black coffee selections, which are delicious enough to stand on their own, but is happy to take customers’ customizations to build the exact drink of their preferences. The café does offer a special for each season: the Summer Feature (available currently), an espresso tonic with a squeezed orange slice; for fall, the iconic Pumpkin Spice Latte; the Winter Latte, a latte with white chocolate, peppermint, and cinnamon; and the Spring Latte, a cardamom latte with lavender whipped cream.

Although he admits the free coffee (and treats! He recommends the blueberry muffin or cranberry, almond, and white chocolate scone) is a perk, his favorite part of the job is the people he has gotten to meet. Undeniably, the café draws an inspired, artistic crowd,

including, of course, Gendron himself. After all, the little corner café is an ideal spot to hunker down and work on something for a few hours, with uplifting views of Strawberry Square and the Capitol through the table-side windows. In his opinion, the atmosphere of Denim is conducive to creativity: “I think you’re going to find a lot of the most creative people working at coffee shops. Coffee is the inspiration – if they’re not working there, they could be sitting, tucked away working on a paper or an art piece they’re doing there. You always meet the best people, in my opinion, at a coffee shop.”

Check out Gendron’s band at linktr.ee/ theedgeofdesolation or on Facebook at TheEdgeof Desolation.

Gendron’s Dossier

1) Words of advice to home coffee brewers. I always recommend trying a pour over coffee versus pot brewed coffee. Pour overs take longer but you’ll have a more flavorful cup of coffee in the mornings!

2) Is there anything – or anyone – who inspires you as a Barista?

I really just enjoy being in a coffee environment. Everyone can agree that coffee is a great way to start off any day and you can meet some really great people just by making them a drink.

3) Favorite coffee or blend of coffee. Definitely our Colombian roast. It was love at first taste when I had it and helped me rediscover my love of anything coffee related.

4) Recommendations of two or three kinds of coffee to try.

Our Colombian and Sumatra roasts are two of my favorites for hot brewed coffee or pour overs. For iced I typically do our cold brew. It’s great on hot days or when I need a good boost of caffeine.

5) Favorite coffee-fusion drink to mix. I like to add a shot of espresso or two to just a regular black coffee. I’m very simple in my taste in coffee!

6) Most commonly ordered drinks during your shift(s).

Definitely vanilla oat milk lattes or caramel oat milk lattes.

7) Philosophy on coffee brewing and/or the enjoyment of coffee.

I enjoy a good cup of black coffee, but the roast has to be good. I don’t like to add cream or sugar if the roast itself tastes good, so just black. I prefer a pour over simply for taste purposes, but regular brewed coffee is always fine by me.

8) Is Barista your day job? If not, what else do you do for a living?

Full time I am a barista, but as both a hobby and second job I play bass in a Baltimore based band called The Edge of Desolation.

9) During a typical week, what days/ shifts can you be found at Denim Coffee?

I work every Friday, Saturday, Sunday, Monday, and Tuesday from 7-3:30!

10) Recipe for your signature (or favorite) coffee drink (laid out in recipe form). Vanilla Cold Brew with Half and Half

About 3/4ths cup of ice

3 pumps of our vanilla syrup

10 ounces of cold brew

Fill the rest of the way up with half and half 7

Nominate a barista or bartender! Harrisburgmagazine.com/submissions