Thursday, February 5th, 2026
Good morning, Reading. Here's your local news at a glance for Thursday, the 5th of February.
COMMUNITY NEWS
- ➤ Help A Girl Out launched its fifth menstrual equity drive with kickoff events at Helping Harvest’s Community Kitchen addressing period poverty in Berks County and Schuylkill County (last year donations jumped 82 percent). The drive also introduces a new website to help locals find drop-off locations and register for collections. WFMZ-TV
- ➤ Opportunity House held its 24th Annual Souper Bowl Monday, Feb. 2 at the DoubleTree by Hilton — its largest fundraiser supporting shelter services. More than 500 attendees enjoyed 30 soups from 26 vendors and a silent auction that benefited unhoused community members. Reading Eagle
ACCIDENTS NEWS
- ➤ Falling ice damaged a gas meter, forcing an evacuation at Central Middle School in Reading Wednesday. WFMZ-TV
EDUCATION NEWS
- ➤ Reading Science Center has been awarded $67,500 in state tax credits through the Pennsylvania Neighborhood Assistance Program — the funds will upgrade classrooms, add new furnishings and technology, and expand the educational team for field trips and after-school programs. Reading Eagle
- ➤ Thomas F. Flynn, Alvernia University President Emeritus, received the Presidents’ Distinguished Service Award from the Association of Catholic Colleges & Universities on Jan. 31 at the Grand Hyatt in Washington, D.C. He served as president from 2005 to 2019 and now supports Catholic higher education through national consulting. Alvernia University
HEALTH NEWS
- ➤ Melting ice and refreezing have created hazardous black ice conditions, increasing fall risks for older adults and those on blood thinners. EMS advises neighbors to clear walkways, salt icy spots, and call 911 if injuries occur — care for one another to reduce falls. WFMZ-TV
SPORTS NEWS
- ➤ Eastern Pennsylvania high school basketball rankings show strong District 12 teams ahead of postseason tournaments beginning Friday in the Lehigh Valley. Coaches + players in District 11 and beyond are set for playoff games next week. Reading Eagle
- ➤ Schuylkill Valley won Division 3 girls basketball on Tuesday by defeating Hamburg 40-19 as Elyssa Sellers scored 29 points. The Panthers (14-6 overall, 10-1 in Division 3) will play a BCIAA quarterfinal game on Saturday. 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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Reading Anime-Fest
10 a.m. - 5 p.m. — DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Reading — Free entry for kids — A family-friendly event featuring voice actors, vendors, attractions, and a huge cosplay contest.
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