Wednesday, February 4th, 2026
Good morning, Reading. Here's your local news at a glance for Wednesday, the 4th of February.
ACCIDENTS NEWS
- ➤ UGI responded to two underground gas leaks in Berks County that led to the evacuation of 40 people last week and the American Red Cross opened an emergency shelter on West Douglass Street when residents reported smelling gas — causing temporary power loss as repairs began. WFMZ-TV
- ➤ Firefighters responded to burst sprinkler systems today as thawing pipes broke after a week of below-freezing temperatures; they shut off the system at a North 11th Street apartment with about 40 units and addressed a burst reported at Opportunity House on Monday. WFMZ-TV
BUSINESS NEWS
- ➤ Entech Engineering renewed its 10-year lease for the Gateway Building on Penn Street in Reading, reinforcing its long-standing commitment to downtown growth. The extension secures the headquarters until 2035 and supports local educational partnerships (reflecting over four decades of community presence). Reading Eagle
EDUCATION NEWS
- ➤ Governor Shapiro praised Reading-Muhlenberg CTC students today for learning in-demand skills and announced a proposal for 18 million dollars in extra state funding for career tech education statewide (highlighting former student Juana Caudillo Savala) at the center in Muhlenberg Twp. WFMZ-TV
- ➤ Reading School District is launching a yearlong initiative called 3C to improve student support, leadership development + instructional practices across five middle schools. The project will start with planning and staff engagement and continue with a formal rollout that measures impact on academic and behavioral outcomes. Reading Eagle
- ➤ Alvernia University released survey results showing educators in its Total Experience Learning program gained 1.01 points in confidence and were 25% more likely to stay in their schools. The four-course certificate, launched in August 2024, impacted roughly 200 participants (providing practical classroom tools). Alvernia University
GOVERNMENT NEWS
- ➤ AARP Pennsylvania supported Governor Shapiro's 2026/2027 budget proposal on Feb. 3 as it focuses on investments that protect older Pennsylvanians from elder abuse & rising utility costs and calls for updates to protective rules for their financial and housing security. WFMZ-TV
REAL ESTATE NEWS
- ➤ Homeowners are advised to review their homestead exemption status before the March 1 deadline to secure property tax savings (most primary residences qualify) and check school district notices for details. Visit the Berks County Assessment Office website if unsure. Reading Eagle
SPORTS NEWS
- ➤ Wyomissing's girls basketball team won 57 to 25 over Fleetwood on Monday night and improved its BCIAA record to 7 to 2 as Addie Loeb scored 17 points and Ella Anders added 12, keeping their division title hopes alive. Reading Eagle
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.'
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Greenville Swamp Rabbits vs Reading Royals
7-9 p.m. — Santander Arena — Stream the thrilling ice hockey matchup between the Swamp Rabbits and Royals.
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Old School Hip Hop Sunday Funday
3-5 p.m. — Santander Arena — Ticketed event — Celebrate the classic era of hip hop with performances from legends like Big Daddy Kane and more.
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Good Thyme for Life Dining Week
Good Thyme For Life is an annual dining event in Berks County for Co-County Wellness Services, raising money for their mission of public health. This year’s event runs from March 2nd-8th and features 7 local restaurants each night, generously donating a portion of the evening revenue to support our work in education and advocacy.
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