Good morning, Harrisburg.

Scott Gerson of Senior Helpers was named 2025 Franchisee of the Year at a conference in Boston—he received the honor for growing home care services in Central Pennsylvania.

Since acquiring his territory in 2022, his team expanded from 150 caregivers serving 165 seniors to over 450 supporting more than 500, which created local jobs.

Tröegs Independent Brewing has partnered with Ever Grain Brewing Company to create Local Dorks IPA, a 6.6% American IPA that celebrates a long friendship in central Pa and uses Nelson Sauvin, Simcoe, and Citra hops for bold, fruity flavor — the beer will be available on draft and in limited 16-oz. cans at Tröegs and at select local bars.

The annual 9/11 Tribute Stair Climb is scheduled at the Dauphin County gym as Pennsylvanians honor firefighters, first responders, and victims from the terror attack—community members are expected to join the commemorative event.

A state law now requires schools to observe a moment of silence for 9/11 and offers free teaching tools for educators to use, though teachers are not forced to include the new materials.

Lawmakers and locals hope the resource will help students understand the history while some educators say updating lessons is challenging—many believe the approach may not reach all students.

The spotted lanternfly, an invasive pest from Asia, is damaging vineyards in Pennsylvania by eating plant nutrients and leaving a sticky substance that grows mold on leaves.

Penn State is running a statewide campaign (which includes free informational packets and egg-scraper tools) to help the public find and remove these insects.

Residents in Hampden Township opposed a developer’s request to rezone eight properties—located near the Good Hope Road and Wertzville Road intersection—for new commercial projects.

The planning commission meeting saw local residents submit a petition with 400 signatures—highlighting their concerns over traffic, noise, and quality of life.

A proposed Pennsylvania House bill to eliminate school property taxes but raise sales and income taxes to cover lost funding is sparking debate among south central Pennsylvania residents.

Critics warn the change will shift the tax burden onto working families and seniors—while supporters view it as a fairer approach to school funding.

State senators said that 600 pharmacies closed in the past two years, forcing many residents to drive long distances for their prescriptions — especially in rural areas.

Lawmakers are considering changes to pharmacy benefits oversight to help consumers access needed medications.

Pharmacists warn that without new Medicaid fee reforms, more community pharmacies may close as over 600 stores have shut down in the past two years—calls for a minimum $10 dispensing fee and a simplified pharmacy benefit manager system are now underway.

Lawmakers are urged to act to ensure patients continue to have local access to essential medications.

All American Dairy Show

Various times — Pennsylvania Farm Show Complex & Expo Center — Admission fees vary — Experience nearly 2,000 top dairy cattle from across the U.S. and Canada during this premier showcase.

Crash and Cross Live at The Doghouse

7 PM – 1 AM — The DogHouse — Free entry — Experience an evening of acoustic tunes with Central PA's favorite duo.

Shooting Star 5k Run and Walk for Life

7:00-11:30 a.m. — City Island Carousel — Registration fee applies — Participate in a vibrant community run and walk event for a worthy cause.

Fort Hunter Day Festival

10 AM – 4 PM — Fort Hunter Mansion and Park — Admission details not provided — Celebrate autumn with arts, crafts, games, and historic demonstrations.

Starting and Improving Farms Conference

10 AM-8 PM — Capital Union Building (CUB) — Register by September 15th — Explore innovative farming practices and network with industry experts.

Finger Eleven Concert

8-9:30 p.m. — XL Live — Cost info not provided — Experience a night of rock with Finger Eleven's unique sound and powerful hits.

Final Boss Big Band

7:30-11:30 p.m. — Kulkarni Theatre Parking — Ticket prices not specified — Experience an epic night of jazz reimagined from classic video game soundtracks.

Oteil Burbridge Live Performance

8:00–9:30 p.m. — XL Live — Ticket prices vary — Experience the musical magic of two-time Grammy winning bassist Oteil Burbridge in a night of unforgettable performances.

Pumsucculent Workshop

6-7:30 p.m. — Fort Hunter Mansion and Park — Pre-registration required — Create cute succulent pumpkins for fall decor.

The Four Horsemen - Tribute to Metallica

8:00-9:30 p.m. — XL Live — Tickets available — Experience the only album-quality tribute to Metallica with The Four Horsemen.