Good morning, Reading.

The 2025 Operation Holiday campaign raised $90,277 from 636 donations and provided gifts and food to 197 families and 401 children (the second largest total in its 35-year history).

Later this month the program will distribute cash to local food pantries across the region.

Local auto shop E-Motive Performance and Auto Repair in Maxatawny Township helped Nicole Tobia (a Berks County resident) by providing over $700 in free repairs last month, ensuring she could safely get to work during the busy holiday season.

A stretch of Route 61 was closed overnight in Ontelaunee Township (between Route 73 and Snyder Road) after an incident was reported by emergency officials at 7 p.m. Thursday.

St. John's (Hains) United Church of Christ at 591 N.

Church Road in Lower Heidelberg Township will host a free concert on Sunday at 3 p.m. featuring Loretta O’Sullivan on flute and Elizabeth Field on violin.

Food safety inspections across Berks county found several vendors had issues like expired milk and improper hot food temperatures.

In Reading, A Plus Mini Market and others received violations during checks from Dec. 24 to Jan. 6, and vendors were given time to correct the problems.

The Animal Rescue League in Cumru Township is featuring two adoptable pets this week.

Oregano (a two-year-old cat) is seeking a calm home and Loofah (an eight-year-old lap dog) is looking for plenty of attention.

Exeter defeated Berks Catholic 45-39 in girls basketball on Friday night with Addison Harper scoring 17 points, improving their record to 9-4 in BCIAA Division 2 (Berks Catholic now stands at 4-8).

Conrad Weiser high school wrestlers beat Gov. Mifflin 39-27 today at a local meet in Reading—each match's falls and pins helped secure the win.

Gary Owen Live Comedy Show

8-10 p.m. — Santander Arena — Tickets required — Experience two decades of sharp observational humor and fearless storytelling from comedian Gary Owen.

Greensboro Gargoyles vs. Reading Royals Hockey Game

7-8:30 p.m. — Santander Arena — Watch on FloHockey — Cheer for your favorite team in this exciting hockey matchup.

Annual Schnitzelfest

6-8 p.m. — Reading Liederkranz — $40 members, $50 guests, $12 for children 5-12 — Indulge in a delicious variety of schnitzel toppings while voting for your favorite to earn a spot on the permanent menu.

Shiver by the River 2026

10 AM – 4 PM — Jim Dietrich Park — Free entry — Participate in a fun-filled day with races and post-race snacks.

CEO

FEAST food works is seeking motivate individuals for entry level positions in our food processing operation. Team members must be reliable, focused on safety and display a willingness to learn. Roles include packaging line worker and warehouse assistant with plenty room for advancement in our growing firm. Competitive compensation based on experience and qualifications with on site training available. Email your resume to [email protected] for consideration.