Dividing the U.S. into seven regions, the popular publication designated its Mid Atlantic region as Delaware, District of Columbia, Maryland, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, Virginia, and West Virginia. Of the 15 Pennsylvania schools selected as part of the best 100 districts, six are located in the in and around the midstate: Ardmore, Pittsburgh, State College, Indiana, Saisbury, and Edinboro.

"We’re a big state. We get a little bit of everything. Why be surprised either way?" commented one veteran observer.

Here’s an update. The Midtown Market District’s Co-Development Team is sending out an invitation to all those interested in preparing the Reily Midtown Center for the anticipated construction theater. A variety of odd-jobs will be done — from the cleaning of the site to moving the theater seats and removing the siding from the front of the building. All volunteers are welcome.

And while the work should keep your blood pumping, the Co-Development Team warns all those participating to dress warmly — the site has no heat yet.

The work on the Reily Midtown Center, located at 250 Reily Street, Harrisburg, will take place December 9 at 9:00 a.m.

The website features eclectic and affordable pieces that are both fun and functional, with items ranging from jewelry and home furnishings to pottery and accessories.

Camp Betty’s Open House will take place December 9 from 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.

"The United Way of the Capital Region impacts the lives of thousands of Dauphin County citizens," said Commissioner Petrucci, oversight commissioner for United Way’s local government division. "I am very proud of our employees for taking up the challenge and surpassing our expectations. Their generous donation helps provide needed services to children, senior citizens, and families — many of whom receive services through our county programs."

Commissioner Payne echoed Petrucci’s remarks, saying, "We are very proud to support the United Way because we understand firsthand how this charity supports thousands of county residents during difficult times, and we appreciate the enormous contribution that United Way makes through county-run programs."

In addition to the county’s Fourth Annual United Way Golf Tournament — which this year raised $17,000 — the county employees also raised funds by holding raffles; a large majority of the contributions came directly from employee donations.

"This year’s campaign really energized our team to reach new fund-raising goals for our local United Way," said Commissioner Henry. "We are very proud of our employees for their willingness to give back to the community and for their tremendous generosity."

The park was selected for the award after a one-year evaluation process by the Applause Board of Governors, a team of industry experts who visited and assessed such things as current management, park operations and the standing record of creative accomplishments, business development, and the foresight of the candidate within the industry as a whole.

"This award is a tribute to those Hersheypark employees past and present who have kept alive Milton S. Hershey’s vision of a caring community," said Hersheypark Senior Vice-President and General Manager Franklin Shearer. "…We are ecstatic to receive this award and sincerely thank the Board of Governors."

Past recipients of the Applause Award have included Disneyland, Universal Studios Florida, Epcot Center at Walt Disney World, and Europa-Park.

The 5:01 Club will open by Christmas. The upscale nightclub is the former Dewey’s building located at the corner of Second and Walnut Street. Plans call for fine dining. "This will be a small-scale version of the old V.I.P," noted one veteran observer.

Up and running is The Pub at 202 Locust. "Think of it as the Harry’s of Downtown Harrisburg. Lots of Notre Dame and Celtic fans," said one customer, adding it is a good location for afternoon and evening games.

By February, Speeder and Earls is expected to open downtown in Market Square next to City Hall, joining The City Grind, Manhattan Bagel, and Dingledines in the coffee shop realm. Speeder and Earl’s will host later evening hours in order to accommodate the growing nighttime crowd in center city.