Good morning, Harrisburg.

Central Pennsylvania credit unions PSECU and Members 1st were named to Newsweek’s America’s Best Regional Banks and Credit Unions 2026, marking their third consecutive year of recognition.

The study reviewed over 140,000 surveys + millions of reviews to highlight strong customer satisfaction and financial strength.

A new Harrisburg economic report shows that independent live entertainment venues generated $74M, contributed $42.8M to GDP and supported 561 jobs while adding $14.5M in off site spending for hotels, restaurants, retail and public transit in the region.

Local teachers have cut extra duties amid ongoing contract negotiations & the dispute continues as the district reviews teacher responsibilities.

Policy changes will be monitored closely for further adjustments.

Before the holiday travel rush, TSA advised passengers at Harrisburg International Airport to pack smart by placing liquids over 3.4 ounces in checked luggage + to use gift bags instead of wrapped presents.

The agency also reminded travelers to bring acceptable ID as REAL ID enforcement increased.

Energy Secretary Chris Wright visited Three Mile Island on Wednesday to promote plans to restart its old nuclear unit as part of a project that will reopen in 2027 and create over 600 jobs; the effort aims to lower blackout risks.

The state has opened applications for childcare worker bonuses offering $450 awards to help stabilize staffing shortages at local childcare centers.

The bonus program aims to support essential caregivers and is available now.

A pilot at three Pennsylvania hospitals is pairing kidney transplant patients with volunteer social media advocates to help find living donors, and early signs show success, with one patient at a Harrisburg hospital having already undergone transplant (the program began in May and is backed by a $100K grant).

Holiday Variety Show

The Strawberry Square Music Series Holiday Variety Show is a free event featuring an all-local lineup of music, theatre, comedy, dance, and magic, plus festive vendors and holiday gift wrapping. Happening Friday, Dec. 19 from 6–9 PM at the UPMC Stage in Strawberry Square, the event also includes a community coat drive supporting Coats in the Cart.

National Christmas Center Train Ride

5-8 p.m. — Stone Gables Estate — Check website for pricing — Experience a festive train ride featuring the Snow Princess and Queen in a winter wonderland setting.

New Year's Eve Celebration

3-8:30 p.m. — Hershey's Chocolate World — Free entry with pre-registration — Celebrate with a DJ and HERSHEY'S Characters at a festive countdown.