Good morning, Reading.

The state awarded $1 million to develop West Wyomissing Park at a former school on Garfield Avenue and more than $350,000 to extend a section of the Schuylkill River Trail in Reading; both projects will soon add trails, parking, lighting, and landscaping.

Penn State Master Gardeners of Berks County and Berks Nature will host the second annual Community Seed Swap on Jan.

31 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Berks Nature, 575 St. Bernardine St., where local gardeners can trade seeds and get growing tips.

The Reading coroner is seeking next of kin for a local man; officials ask anyone with related information to come forward (via WFMZ-TV 69 News).

McDonald’s business owner Stephanie Rawden has been named to the Alvernia University Board of Trustees, where her decades of restaurant leadership will guide job growth & educational initiatives.

She is expected to boost local career and workforce opportunities.

On Monday, Jan. 12, state Sen. Pennycuick and education experts met at Daniel Boone Middle School for a hearing on literacy.

They discussed how a $10-million literacy initiative under the 2025-26 budget will support new curriculum, teacher training and resource-sharing.

Local 4H students compete at the PA Farm Show in Harrisburg by showing their animals (goats, pigs, and lambs).

They work early each day to feed the animals and clean pens so judges can assess their skill.

I-LEAD’s Pre-Apprenticeship Prep Course at the Neighborhood Resource Center helped two graduates secure jobs at Spring Township-based Brentwood Industries—an early success for a program launched in 2025.

It supports local high school graduates and adults in gaining skills for manufacturing careers.

Alvernia University and Brandywine Heights School District each receive $7,500 through the Agriculture and Youth Grant Program to boost agricultural education in Berks County; the funds will support Alvernia’s Seeds of Discovery raised flower bed pilot project and Brandywine Heights’ Poultry Science Program, as announced at the 2026 Farm Show.

Cumru Township is unveiling an economic development plan tonight to create four mixed use zones including areas along Route 10 near Flying Hills, the 222 corridor, and near Gouglersville.

Township officials plan to start rezoning efforts and seek state & federal funding for long term growth.

Gov. Mifflin girls basketball won a BCIAA game over Exeter on Monday night (Jan.

12) with Bella Super scoring 30 points and reaching 1,086 career points while Saray Renninger added 11 in the 65-43 win.

Eight inductees will join the Oley Valley School District Athletic Hall of Fame on Friday, Jan.

23 at Oley Valley High School; the event begins at 5 p.m. with a reception, followed by a plaque presentation at 6 p.m. and a public recognition at 7 p.m. during the basketball games.

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.