Reading
Morning News
Thursday, February 26th, 2026
Good morning, Reading. Here's your local news at a glance for Thursday, the 26th of February.
COMMUNITY NEWS
- ➤ Dairy farmers Alicia and Michael Haag from Mic-Ali Farm in Centre Township work hard to keep their family operation thriving. The Haags, a seventh-generation farm, continue to adapt to challenges with improved practices and dedicated animal care for our community. Reading Eagle
- ➤ Two Berks farms were recognized by state officials today as century farms. Michael and Ellen Angstadt of a 120-acre farm and Elizabeth Keller of a 50-acre farm in Kutztown continue family farming traditions as part of a statewide program celebrating Pennsylvania’s agricultural heritage. Reading Eagle
- ➤ Alvernia University held a wall breaking ceremony for the American House project that will turn the 45,000 sqft historic building in downtown Reading into a community-based health center (a partnership with Berks Community Health Center). Phase one completes in May, phase two in December, and phase three in March 2027. Reading Eagle
BUSINESS NEWS
- ➤ Alcon, with facilities in Berks County, reported steady 2025 growth in surgical and vision care despite a $91 million tariff burden and a scrapped STAAR Surgical bid. The company expects 2026 net sales to rise 5+7% with new product launches. WFMZ-TV
CULTURE NEWS
- ➤ Washington Presbyterian Church on North 10th Street honors its over 200-year history this Black History Month. The historic church has been a place for worship and learning since its early days as a Sunday school (established in 1823) and continues to serve the community. WFMZ-TV
EDUCATION NEWS
- ➤ Heritage Art and Craft Studio hosts a pollinator workshop at the Wayside Lodge at the Daniel Boone Homestead in Exeter Township on Sunday, March 22 from 1 to 2:30 p.m. Guests build pollinator houses with natural materials and must register by March 15 as space is limited to 10 participants. Reading Eagle
ENVIRONMENT NEWS
- ➤ Local farms have been under a severe drought advisory while snow covers the fields; Heidi Reed (crop expert at Penn State York) warns that below-average rainfall since last June has left groundwater levels low and that heavy spring rains may be needed to restore moisture. WFMZ-TV
GOVERNMENT NEWS
- ➤ Berks educator Mitch Micale has announced his candidacy for the GOP nomination for the 130th District seat, representing communities in central and eastern Berks County. The Fleetwood teacher vows to focus on education, public safety, and fiscal responsibility if elected. Reading Eagle
SPORTS NEWS
- ➤ Wilson junior Kailani Hardy was named player of the year while teammate Laila Jones earned all‐conference honors and coach Matt Raquet was named coach of the year; the Bulldogs (26-2) will play Dallastown today for the District 3 Class 6A title. Reading Eagle
- ➤ Columbia earned its third PIAA qualifying spot after defeating Oley Valley 49+45 in Tuesday's District 3 Class 3A girls basketball playoffs, led by Alivia Crawley's 22 points. They will open play in the state tournament on Friday, March 7. Reading Eagle
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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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Phil Wickham Concert
7-8 p.m. — Santander Arena — Ticket prices vary — Experience uplifting worship music with Phil Wickham live in Reading.
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Gerald Veasley's Unscripted Jam
3:00 p.m.–1:00 a.m. — DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Reading — Buy ticket — Celebrate the 35th anniversary of the Berks Jazz Fest with a night of unscripted jazz featuring renowned artists.
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Berks Sinfonietta: Gershwin Comes Alive
6-9 p.m. — Miller Center for the Arts — Ticketed event — Experience Gershwin's magic brought to life with the Berks Sinfonietta and Lars Potteiger, plus a performance by the Berks High School All-Star Jazz Band.
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TODAY'S FOOD FOR THOUGHT
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