Good morning, Reading.

Alpek Polyester will close its bottle recycling plant at 4030 Pottsville Pike in Muhlenberg Township on March 15 (affecting 100 jobs), and the shutdown notice was filed with the labor department.

The closure is expected to be permanent.

Antietam School District will build a new elementary school at 100 Antietam Road on the flood-damaged site using an elevated design and extra stormwater management measures.

The $30.3 million project is planned as a response to budget constraints and the lack of alternative sites.

PennDOT announced nearly $53 million for rail freight improvements statewide, including over $3.4 million in Berks County to replace 1,600 ft of track at Boyertown Foundry and to upgrade a siding at Birdsboro Quarry to support jobs & growth.

Reading residents and business owners must clear sidewalks after snow stops, with two hours for downtown and four hours in other areas to avoid fines.

City officials are still reviewing conditions (a snow emergency has not been declared) while drivers should note rules for vehicle removal if one is declared.

Penn State Health has expanded pediatric surgical services at St. Joseph Medical Center to boost access for children in Berks County.

Pediatric surgeons from Golisano Children’s Hospital now offer pre-surgical appointments + various procedures using advanced techniques.

Berks Catholic beat York Catholic 49-47 Wednesday night in a close boys basketball contest.

All-State guard Kingston McKoy scored 25 points, including 10 in the final quarter, lifting the Saints to a 13-2 record and the top rank in District 3 Class 4A as they will host Gov. Mifflin tonight.

Reading High beat Muhlenberg in a BCIAA Division 1 game on Thursday night.

Weshly Rosario (26 points) and Jostin DeCastro (20 points) led the Red Knights to a win that ties them for second as Berks Catholic continues to lead the division.

Reading Fightin Phils will honor former Gov. Mifflin and Penn State star Nick Singleton with a bobblehead giveaway for the first 2,000 kids at 6:45 p.m. Friday, April 24 at FirstEnergy Stadium— the event includes an NFL Draft Watch Party and beer tasting.

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.

Tropical Invasion Concert

8-11 p.m. — Santander Arena — All in prices available — Experience a night of vibrant Latin rhythms with Elvis Crespo and more.

Harlem Globetrotters Show

7-9 p.m. — Santander Arena — Tickets starting at $36 — Experience the legendary antics and skills of the Harlem Globetrotters live in Reading.

Sisqó Live in Concert

3-6 p.m. — Santander Arena — tickets available — Experience the smooth R&B vibes of Sisqó, the voice behind the iconic 'Thong Song.'