Good morning, Harrisburg.

Mira Hewlett will begin her role as executive director at Mission Central — a humanitarian nonprofit in Silver Spring Township — on Wednesday.

Outgoing board chair Jim Foster praised her mix of pastoral and higher education experience for guiding the organization's expanding aid efforts.

A recent downtown survey (over 4,000 responses) shows strong support for a Harrisburg renaissance as residents call for basic amenities, better parking and safer streets.

The Pennsylvania Downtown Center partnered with CREDC to share the findings last month.

Highmark Wholecare will host a free farmers market today from 4 to 7 p.m. at Hanna’s Pantry in Harrisburg (offering 8,000 pounds of fresh produce and on-site Medicaid renewal support) to help local families access nutritious food.

Mechanicsburg-based Mission Central is preparing to ship emergency kits and supplies to Venezuela following twin quakes that have killed over 1,400 people; the nonprofit partners with local organizations (including Arepa House) to gather donations and coordinate shipments.

The effort is ongoing as help is mobilized for families in need.

Beloved nonprofit leader Betty Hungerford, 94, died on June 27 at Penn State Milton S.

Hershey Medical Center in Derry Township—she led development efforts at Homeland Center and raised funds for local organizations, leaving a lasting impact on Harrisburg.

A new outdoor exhibit at the U.S. Army Heritage and Education Center in Carlisle will open July 2, offering an immersive look into the daily lives of soldiers in Afghanistan and Iraq as part of the Carlisle Barracks America 250 event.

Fireworks shows will take place across central PA from July 2 to 5—featuring live music, food vendors, and community festivities at venues such as Fairfield, Gettysburg, Hershey, and Wrightsville.

Harrisburg University approved updated undergraduate tuition rates that will take effect Fall 2026 — full-time tuition will rise to $13,005 per semester while part-time tuition increases to $1,050 per credit hour, and graduate rates remain unchanged.

The decision reflects rising costs and adjustments in financial aid formulas.

National Fitness Partners will upgrade equipment at its 210 clubs by the end of June, driven by customer feedback on evolving fitness trends.

President and CEO Stephen Kindler Jr. said the move will help clubs better serve members in the region.

Wet Nose Wednesday

5:30-7:30 p.m. — FNB Field — Pet-friendly atmosphere — Bring your furry friends to cheer on the Senators and enjoy a night of fun.

July 4th Food Truck Festival and Fireworks

1-9 p.m. — Riverfront Park — Free entry — Celebrate Independence Day with 40 food trucks and live music as fireworks light up the night sky.

Rick Springfield Concert

7:00 – 8:30 PM — PENN Heroes Stage — Enjoy an evening with the Grammy-winning artist who defined power-pop in the ’80s.

The Jellybricks Live

7-11 p.m. — McGrath's Pub — Check venue for cost — Enjoy a night of classic rock with The Jellybricks, a band that embodies persistence and passion.

The Swisher Sweets 10-Year Anniversary

7 p.m. — XL Live — Free show — Celebrate a decade of music with surprise performances by local favorites The Swisher Sweets and guests.