Here's your local news at a glance for Thursday, the 1st of January.
Good morning, Harrisburg.
Lawrance Binda’s blog lays out Harrisburg’s resolutions for 2026, urging peaceful government collaboration, a final decision on the former William Penn school, prompt repairs at Broad Street Market, a downtown economic development plan, continued affordable housing, and more community kindness.
The 21-year New Year's Eve wrench drop in Mechanicsburg took place last night on Main Street.
Volunteers helped set up the event—road closures began at 8 p.m. and festivities started at 9 p.m.—to honor a local tradition despite challenges faced by organizer Darrell Westby.
Volunteers in Mechanicsburg are preparing a traditional New Year's Day pork and sauerkraut dinner for a Turning Point Church fundraiser today — supporting local community efforts.
Turning Point Church of Mechanicsburg is hosting its annual pork and sauerkraut dinner today from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at 25 E Main St. to raise funds for Feed My Starving Children meal kits—attendees can preorder for $13 online or pay $15 at the door.
Grotto Pizza will soon open a new outlet in central PA — bringing its fan-favorite pies to local residents as the popular chain expands its community presence.
Business owners are warned that credit card debt for inventory can burden store finances when interest rates reach up to 36 percent while SBA loans average about 12 percent.
They are advised to track spending against sales projections and explore low-rate financing options like SBA loans + bank lines.
Giant will close its centralized fulfillment centers in Coopersburg, Lancaster, Willow Grove, and North Coventry as it shifts to store-based picking + third-party delivery to speed up ecommerce orders, with the new system expected to complete by the end of April and deliver orders in as little as two hours.
Drivers in Pennsylvania and New Jersey will face higher tolls in early 2026.
Rates on the Pennsylvania Turnpike will rise by 4% on Jan. 4 while 3% increases on New Jersey and Delaware River bridges begin Jan. 1 (certain bridges will keep current tolls).
Harrisburg University ended 2025 by celebrating its top 10 stories — welcoming the Class of 2029, hosting an esports tournament, advancing academic programs, and highlighting breakthrough research — achievements that underscore its lasting impact on education and local community life.
Drivers on the Pennsylvania Turnpike will face a 4 percent toll increase starting Jan.
4 as new rates take effect; officials say the added revenue will pay for transportation projects (as required by Act 44).
Mountain West Food Group recalled 16-ounce vacuum-sealed packages of Forward Farms grass-fed ground beef produced on Dec.
16 (use or freeze by Jan. 13) for possible E. coli contamination; the beef was shipped to distributors in PA and other states and no illness has been reported.
Planet Fitness (Upper Allen Township) is sharing New Year fitness tips to help locals ease back into gym workouts.
The advice aims to support those restarting a healthy routine.
Eaglemania - A Tribute to The Eagles
8-11 p.m. — Carlisle Theatre — Cost info not specified — Experience the world’s greatest Eagles tribute performance featuring remarkable harmonies and hits.
Megan and Dave's Sing-Along Night
6-9 p.m. — Copper Pub and Grille — Free entry — Enjoy a high-energy night of your favorite sing-along covers with Megan and Dave.
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