Good morning, Reading.

On Wednesday, Feb. 25, State Rep. Johanny Cepeda-Freytiz awarded Star City Boxing a $50,000 state grant in Reading that will help the nonprofit buy equipment, expand tournament participation and support its operations.

Willoughby's on Park will close on March 14 at 305 N.

Park Road in Wyomissing; a new dining concept, TAO Japanese Steakhouse & Bar, is planned to take its place though its opening date is not yet set.

UGI announced that its purchased gas cost rates will rise by 10% on March 1, which will push the average residential gas bill from about $119.67 to $124.72, including a Universal Service Program adjustment for a total 4.5% increase after the utility petitioned the state commission.

The Berks County Bar Association invites students in grades 5-8 to compete in its 2026 Law Day Multimedia Competition, where they explore law's role in celebrating our country's 250th anniversary.

Entries must be submitted by email by Monday, April 13 (winners will earn cash awards and join a May celebration).

State Sen. Judy Schwank updated on efforts to curb an avian flu surge that has decimated 7.6M birds, threatening Pennsylvania’s $7.1 billion poultry industry.

Gov. Josh Shapiro has mobilized more teams + funds to boost biosecurity measures that keep eggs safe for families today.

Public meetings on a new master plan for the Kernsville Dam site are ongoing in Tilden Twp. (Gregg Adams of Blue Mountain Wildlife said residents can share feedback until the end of March so the plan can gain support to remove the dam and free the river after 110 years.)

PennDOT crews will repair a busy stretch of Route 422 from Monday, Mar.

2 to Thursday, Mar. 5 from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. The work between the Penn Street and I‑176 exits will include pothole patching and lane restrictions, and drivers should plan for delays.

Berks Catholic beat Bishop McDevitt 58-52 in overtime to clinch the District 3 Class 4A championship on Friday, Feb.

27 at Garden Spot High School in New Holland (the team sealed a close contest).

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Phil Wickham Concert

7-8 p.m. — Santander Arena — Ticket prices vary — Experience uplifting worship music with Phil Wickham live in Reading.

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.

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.

Norfolk Admirals vs. Reading Royals

3-4 p.m. — Santander Arena — Cost info not specified — Watch an exciting hockey game as the Norfolk Admirals take on the Reading Royals.