This story was originally published on Aug. 27, 2013 on PennLive. This week, hundreds of freshmen will descend on Messiah College, an interdenominational Christian college in Upper Allen Twp. where differences are “celebrated, appreciated, and allowed to remain distinct” according to the school’s admissions office. During welcome week, as they bid mom and dad farewell,Continue reading “Blurred Lines: Staying vague on gay penalties impacts Messiah student community”
Author Archives: juliahatmaker
Wench for a day: Working at the Pennsylvania Renaissance Faire
This story was originally published on Aug. 25, 2013 on PennLive. In the bowels of the Globe Theatre, I was handed a pair of peasant’s bloomers. Little did I know that by day’s end, I would be royalty. Lily Steiner, head costumer for the Pennsylvania Renaissance Faire in Mount Hope, dressed me in Renaissance garbContinue reading “Wench for a day: Working at the Pennsylvania Renaissance Faire”
How James Wolpert found his voice: Strasburg singer talks past, upcoming concert and EP launch
This story was originally published on Feb. 11, 2014 on PennLive.com. James Wolpert has lived in the same house in Strasburg all his life. From the outside, you can tell that is a house filled with stories, ghosts and memories of years long past. It is a touch rustic and still undergoing projects as staircases areContinue reading “How James Wolpert found his voice: Strasburg singer talks past, upcoming concert and EP launch”
Behind the Scenes: What it takes to put on a Hersheypark Stadium concert
This story was originally published July 8, 2014 on PennLive.com. It was the cover story for Central PA Magazine’s Arts and Entertainment issue, as well as a front-page story for The Patriot-News. Screams surround you as you stand, rocking to the beat, drink in one hand and cell phone in the other. You’re snapping pictureContinue reading “Behind the Scenes: What it takes to put on a Hersheypark Stadium concert”
1984 agreement between Amish and Pennsylvania sets tone for ‘Amish Mafia’ debate
This story was originally published on Aug. 15, 2014 on PennLive. Governor Tom Corbett made headlines earlier this week when he, and other state and national politicians, called for a halt to production of the Discovery Channel series “Amish Mafia” in a statement issued by the Respect Amish movement. “Amish Mafia” follows a gang in Lancaster County who “enforce”Continue reading “1984 agreement between Amish and Pennsylvania sets tone for ‘Amish Mafia’ debate”
Where’s the festival? Harrisburg’s Fourth of July pleases some, baffles others
This story was originally published on July 4, 2014 on PennLive. Ekaterina Rotz was confused. The Hampden Twp. resident was looking around Riverfront Park in Harrisburg on July 4 for a festival that just wasn’t there. “It’s the Fourth of July!” she exclaimed. “There’s always something like ArtsFest or something here on the Fourth ofContinue reading “Where’s the festival? Harrisburg’s Fourth of July pleases some, baffles others”
So I THINK I can dance… A Dancing Diary
I was asked to participate in the 2014 “Dancing With the Central PA Stars” event on April 26, 2014. I decided this was a perfect opportunity to experiment with a video diary, one that would consist of short 1-2 minute videos where the PennLive audience could follow me on my path to dancing glory. HereContinue reading “So I THINK I can dance… A Dancing Diary”
How to be the ultimate zombie: ‘Day of the Dead’ actor shares his tips at Central PA Comic Con
Originally published April 5, 2014 on PennLive.com With the “Walking Dead,” zombies are the rage. It’s important therefore that all zombie actors and zombie fans take a moment to bask in the present popularity of the undead – at least that’s what Mark Tierno believes. Tierno played “Beef Treats,” one of the featured zombies in the filmContinue reading “How to be the ultimate zombie: ‘Day of the Dead’ actor shares his tips at Central PA Comic Con”
Why I never gave up hope in Punxsutawney Phil
This story was originally published on PennLive.com on March 14, 2013. I never lost faith in Punxsutawney Phil. When I met the famous groundhog and stared into his soulful black eyes, I just knew that this was one marmot I could trust. While Phil’s appearance frequently changes, I believe fervently that his weather prognostication skills doContinue reading “Why I never gave up hope in Punxsutawney Phil”
Gay marriage in Pennsylvania: What it means for the wedding industry and state’s economy
This story was originally published on May 23, 2014 on PennLive.com. With the striking down of the Defense of Marriage Act, wedding bells are in the air — and so are dollar signs. The legalization of same-sex marriage could have economic impacts on the Pennsylvania wedding industry, as the number of people eligible for marriages and wedding ceremonies grows.Continue reading “Gay marriage in Pennsylvania: What it means for the wedding industry and state’s economy”
Ringling Brothers ringmaster Johnathan Lee Iverson on why performing in the circus is worth the risks
Originally published May 17, 2014 on PennLive.com. The circus is coming to town. Ringling Brothers and Barnum & Bailey are bringing their “Legends” show to the Hershey Giant Center May 21-26. Tickets begin at $27.85 for “The Greatest Show on Earth,” where you can see death defying stunts and mythological creatures – including Pegasus andContinue reading “Ringling Brothers ringmaster Johnathan Lee Iverson on why performing in the circus is worth the risks”
Year in Review: 2013
Dec. 31, 2013 As 2014 approaches, I can’t help but look back on 2013. It was a good year for me, story wise. I had an awful lot of fun assignments from listing the “Top 12 Signs You Are A Midstater” to interviewing Gilbert Gottfried to hunting down Jon Gosselin to checking out a historical fighting course. I also dived headfirst intoContinue reading “Year in Review: 2013”
The non-fan’s guide to enjoying a One Direction concert
This article was originally published on PennLive.com on July 6, 2013. Did you get roped into chaperoning your tween daughter/sister/friend at the One Direction concert at Hersheypark on July 6? Already dreading your task? Well don’t, because it can actually – surprise surprise – be fun. Follow these 10 tips and lessons learned (the hard way byContinue reading “The non-fan’s guide to enjoying a One Direction concert”
Drag queens speak out: Local documentary tells their story
Originally published in The Patriot-News on Nov. 8, 2012. Mitchell L. Ernst of Lebanon is a performer at heart. He’s a professional actor — but the character he is best known for lives off the theater stage. Her name is Jade DeVere and she is fierce, fabulous and oh-so feminine. Ernst is a drag queenContinue reading “Drag queens speak out: Local documentary tells their story”
‘Amish Mafia’: Amish experts weigh in on new Discovery Channel show
Amish mafia. The two words together seem like an oxymoron. But, according to a new Discovery Channel show, they are not the oddest of pairings. “Amish Mafia” explores the world of Lebanon Levi and his gang of three men, Jolin, John and Alvin. Together, the four act as “protectors” of the Amish community in Lancaster. TheContinue reading “‘Amish Mafia’: Amish experts weigh in on new Discovery Channel show”
Mixtape Festival brings nostalgia (and music) to Hershey
When the Summer Mixtape Festival was announced on April 16, the news was met with screams and squeals. “I flipped out,” said Tabatha Pelletier of East Pennsboro Twp. “I started yelling and ran upstairs telling everyone that I had to go to this concert. I was like a little child.” Held in Hersheypark Stadium Friday and Saturday,Continue reading “Mixtape Festival brings nostalgia (and music) to Hershey”
Crowd welcomes beauty chain Sephora to Swatara Township: ‘It’s like grownup candy’
Originally published June 15, 2012 on PennLive.com. For a trio of devoted makeup fans, camping out in a parking lot starting at midnight Friday was a price worth paying to be among the first in line for the grand opening of Sephora in Swatara Twp. Yadira Chavez, Brittany Fenser and Katie Chavez of Swatara Twp.Continue reading “Crowd welcomes beauty chain Sephora to Swatara Township: ‘It’s like grownup candy’”
Commentary: My night in Gotham City at ‘The Dark Knight Rises’ world premiere
Originally published in The Patriot-News on July 20, 2012. Earlier this week, I was transported to Gotham City. Luck had brought me to the comic book metropolis. My parents, siblings and I were extras during the “The Dark Knight Rises” filming in Pittsburgh last year (look for our blurs in the stadium scene). As a reward forContinue reading “Commentary: My night in Gotham City at ‘The Dark Knight Rises’ world premiere”
Pearl Harbor Day: Camp Hill woman remembers being awakened by bombing
Originally published in The Patriot-News on Dec. 7, 2011. Patricia Behrens woke up to the sound of explosions. It was about 7 a.m. on Dec. 7, 1941, in Hawaii. “Oh, shucks,” Behrens said she thought. “They’re practicing at Fort DeRussy.” The U.S. military reservation had a habit of waking residents up with its drills. “WhyContinue reading “Pearl Harbor Day: Camp Hill woman remembers being awakened by bombing”
Brian Littrell of Backstreet Boys talks about the band, fans and rivals
Originally published in The Patriot-News on July 28, 2011. Brian Littrell, member of the Backstreet Boys and heartthrob at large, is making his way to Hershey. The same man whose faced grinned from posters on bedroom walls and covers of teen magazines has joined up with his band mates and New Kids on the BlockContinue reading “Brian Littrell of Backstreet Boys talks about the band, fans and rivals”
Holy extra, Batman! An extra’s experience on the ‘Dark Knight Rises’ set
Originally published in The Patriot-News on Sunday, Aug. 14, 2011. To say I am a Batman fan is an understatement. Growing up, I had the costume, the action figures, the sleeping bag and the toys. I used to parade around my house, leaping down stairs singing “Na-na-na-na-na-na-na-na-na-na-na-na-BATMAN” in full bat costume. My first prayer wasContinue reading “Holy extra, Batman! An extra’s experience on the ‘Dark Knight Rises’ set”
Steelton rapper Skillz Hurachi’s death stuns friends and family
Originally published in The Patriot-News on May 19, 2012. Many people called Terrance Manning “Skillz,” and his growing success in different fields show that he deserved the nickname. Known as Skillz Hurachi, the Steelton rapper had opened for nationally known superstars Drake, Lil’ Wayne and Soulja Boy as a member of the rap trio VSOP/XO.Continue reading “Steelton rapper Skillz Hurachi’s death stuns friends and family”
Psychic John Edward connects with the dead, science and skeptics
Originally published in The Patriot-News on August 18, 2011. Quantum physics enthusiast and former health care administrator, John Edward is more than just a proclaimed psychic. He is a teacher, a messenger and according to some, a fraud. Edward, 41, is coming to a sold-out performance Friday at Harrisburg’s Whitaker Center. with a price ofContinue reading “Psychic John Edward connects with the dead, science and skeptics”
Rusted Root spreads its roots in Lancaster
Originally published in the official guide to Launch Music Conference 2012. Not every band can say its music has been played in space. But, then again, Rusted Root is not your average band. Formed in the early 90s, Rusted Root has built a name for itself on its unique blend of the world and rockContinue reading “Rusted Root spreads its roots in Lancaster”
Harrisburg rapper J. Bair’s video goes against grain, slams violence
Originally published in The Patriot-News on April 19, 2012. A gunshot interrupts the ting, bass, ting of a rap song’s percussion. Screams sound and characters scatter. One guy slumps forward. The image is stark and horrifying. “Gunshot Blast” by Harrisburg rapper J. Bair goes against the grain of the stereotypical modern rap music scene, which tendsContinue reading “Harrisburg rapper J. Bair’s video goes against grain, slams violence”
‘I Am Harrisburg’ video aims to rally city
Originally published in The Patriot-News on March 23, 2012. Harrisburg might be making headlines for violence and debt, but there’s more to it than that. That’s the message behind “I Am Harrisburg,” a hip-hop song written for the people of the city to rally behind. Written by local rappers and producers All Steezy, Jaymes, Zach, Pacino,Continue reading “‘I Am Harrisburg’ video aims to rally city”
Friends and family gather to help with cleanup efforts in Hummelstown and Middletown
Originally published in The Patriot-News on September 12, 2011. Shawn Peterson of South Hanover Township hardly slept Thursday night. He spent much of it standing on a hill, watching as the water of the Swatara Creek engulfed the first floor of his home. “I was sitting on the hill just thinking, ‘Oh, God,’” he said.Continue reading “Friends and family gather to help with cleanup efforts in Hummelstown and Middletown”
Digging the drums: Frankie Muniz talks Kingsfoil and career so far
Originally published in The Patriot-News on April 7, 2012. It’s Friday afternoon and Frankie Muniz has locked himself in with his drum kit. Since arriving in Harrisburg on Thursday morning, Muniz has been living and breathing the music of Kingsfoil, the York band in which he plays drums. Muniz rose to fame in 2000 as MalcolmContinue reading “Digging the drums: Frankie Muniz talks Kingsfoil and career so far”
An account of a first time ever visit to the Farm Show
Originally published in The Patriot-News on January 12, 2012. I never thought a pumpkin could inspire such joy in me. But, then again, I had never seen a 735-pound pumpkin before. Since I moved to central Pennsylvania in 2011, I had been hearing about the Farm show. If I had a nickel for every timeContinue reading “An account of a first time ever visit to the Farm Show”
U.S. is behind curve, roundabout fans say
Background: In the last week of June 2011 a roundabout was installed on Linglestown Road. For weeks after it was the topic of many discussions in the community, with most spewing hatred for the roadway. During this time, I stumbled on a Roundabout Appreciate Society and this story. Originally published in The Patriot-News on JulyContinue reading “U.S. is behind curve, roundabout fans say”
The Summer Dress Guide: How to find the perfect gown for you
Originally published in The Patriot-News on Aug. 4, 2011. This summer it’s all about dresses. A great way to keep cool and look cute at the same time, the summer dress this year is bright, breathable and bold. Taylor Eisenberger, fashionista and owner of Taylored for You Bridal Boutique in Mechanicsburg and Paula Trimpey, AssociateContinue reading “The Summer Dress Guide: How to find the perfect gown for you”
Julia Hatmaker 