Reading
Morning News
Thursday, February 19th, 2026
Good morning, Reading. Here's your local news at a glance for Thursday, the 19th of February.
BUSINESS NEWS
- ➤ At a planning commission meeting Wednesday night, Upper Macungie officials paused 7 Brew Coffee's drive-thru plan (the chain has 500+ locations) for a small building at Trexlertown Plaza on Hamilton Blvd. They also approved a revised plan for Twin Ponds housing, which includes 132 apartments and a daycare center. WFMZ-TV
EDUCATION NEWS
- ➤ Alvernia University held an Ash Wednesday service that marked the start of Lent, a 40-day period leading up to Easter. The event welcomed students and community members on campus for a time of reflection. WFMZ-TV
- ➤ Ken Bonkoski, facilities manager at Antietam School District, is honored with the 2026 Pennsylvania RISE Award for his flood recovery leadership — after the 2023 flood he rescued school property and led repair efforts while helping set up temporary classrooms for students. Berks Weekly
ENVIRONMENT NEWS
- ➤ This fall, Hawk Mountain set a new record with 761 bald eagles counted, nearly 100 more than last season. Volunteers used count protocols (only including migrating birds headed south) as conservation efforts help boost local bird numbers. Reading Eagle
GOVERNMENT NEWS
- ➤ Water crews repaired two water main breaks on Birch and Snyder Streets — shutting off water for 32 and 14 homes respectively — and have restored service, though a boil water advisory remains for a few residences until water tests confirm safety over the next three days. WFMZ-TV
- ➤ State Aging Secretary Jason Kavulich visited Berks County Area Agency on Aging Tuesday to launch a new regional effort with Lehigh and Lancaster counties to protect older adults from abuse and exploitation. The MDT — including social services, law enforcement and health professionals — will coordinate protective services for elders. Reading Eagle
- ➤ State Rep Manny Guzman honored local leaders during a Black History Month celebration held in Reading, recognizing their contributions to local heritage. The event celebrated community achievements and ongoing efforts to preserve history. WFMZ-TV
HEALTH NEWS
- ➤ Dr. Philip Baney has practiced family medicine for 26 years, serving communities in Laureldale and Hamburg with personalized care and at-home visits during winter. He emphasizes patient education and respect, creating strong bonds that keep families coming back. Berks Weekly
- ➤ Reading Hospital seeks volunteers for its No One Dies Alone program to offer comfort to patients without nearby family during end-of-life care. The hospital trains volunteers in physical and spiritual support + asks interested individuals to call Volunteer Services at 484-628-8477. WFMZ-TV
REAL ESTATE NEWS
- ➤ Borough officials in Wyomissing said Berkshire Mall stays open as needed repairs and improvements, including updates to HVAC and the sprinkler system (with one unit awaiting a part), continue. They confirm the mall is safe for shoppers while work progresses. WFMZ-TV
SPORTS NEWS
- ➤ Wilson McKaden Speece, with 190 wins, needs four victories to tie the county record at the South Central Region Wrestling Championships (his chance) at Spring Grove High School. The top seed at 172 has his first match Friday at noon and faces Section 2 champion Christian Burd if both win. Reading Eagle
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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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Worcester Railers at Reading Royals
3-4 p.m. — Santander Arena — Cost varies — Catch an exciting hockey matchup with the Worcester Railers taking on the Reading Royals.
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Gary Gulman Live Comedy Show
3:30-6:30 p.m. — Miller Center for the Arts — Tickets starting at $68 — Experience a night of laughter with Gary Gulman’s comedic energy.
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