Good morning, Reading.

Arianna Austin, an Albright College student who once lived in her car, found stability at Opportunity House in Reading where she studies, volunteers in the kitchen, and crafts bracelets for fellow residents (430 N.

Second St.).

Unique Snacks, a Berks County pretzel maker, unveiled a vibrant rebrand in December with a new logo and the tagline Daringly Different; the refreshed design now appears on its packages and will expand nationwide as the company pursues healthy snack growth.

WCR Center for the Arts (140 N.

Fifth St.) launched Game Night on Monday, Jan. 12, from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m.; the monthly event featured board games and invites guests to bring favorites, with future gatherings planned on the second Monday of each month.

Black Canvas Poetry in partnership with ThePoetSmiley is launching a free open mic at Alvernia University’s Francis Hall on Friday, Jan.

16 from 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM (advance registration required) where Chiina Bloodmire leads 10 poets competing for a $200 prize and featured spot at the June event.

At the Daniel Boone Area Middle School library (in Amity Twp) the Pennsylvania Senate Majority Policy Committee discussed structured literacy to boost reading for students and adults.

United Way and the Literacy Council of Reading-Berks said the approach builds comprehension and job skills (and helps with digital knowhow).

Some Berks schools will receive $600,000 in state grants to expand agricultural programs, boosting career opportunities for students (details were approved by state officials).

Nine projects in Berks County are set to receive $2.3 million in state funds to upgrade trails, parks, and public lands.

Reading and nearby communities will see improvements that build walking trails, playgrounds, and conservation measures.

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.