Good morning, Reading.

Inside the Reading Public Museum planetarium, more than 100 locals watched as Artemis II launched into space, marking a historic mission that sent four astronauts around the moon and featured a diverse crew.

The event inspired community members who celebrated a new chapter in local space exploration.

A Monday home fire on Hillside Drive in Perry Township displaced the Hoffert family, and organizers set up a donation drop off at Shoemakersville Park pavilion today (5:30 to 7 p.m.), while an all-you-care-to-eat pancake breakfast is planned on Apr.

11 at First Reformed UCC Church to help the family.

Pennsylvania expects 200 million visitors in 2026 with major events, including America's 250th anniversary, an NFL draft, and six World Cup matches.

Reading is set as a FIFA World Cup Fan Zone as Gov. Shapiro and officials launch the Visit PA Playmakers effort to boost local tourism and economic growth.

Local families in Reading are feeling the strain as rising gas, food, and clothing costs push household budgets to the limit.

Berks Community Action Plan — an agency offering utility assistance and budget counseling — reports a steady increase in residents seeking help amid the cost challenges.

Reading High School's Geigle Complex is moving to update student spaces, locker rooms, and fitness areas as phase two of a multi-million-dollar renovation begins.

Bids came in under budget at about $5.87 million, and the district will soon seek board approval to purchase key equipment (including improvements for the cafeteria).

Tower Health hosted Match Day at DUCOM where 290 Drexel students revealed their residency placements, including Berks County native Alexis Price-Moyer who began her general surgery residency at Temple University Medical Center.

After 28 years on the job, Hamburg Fire Chief Jarrod Emes stepped down to focus on family, and his sister Bethany Thren took over as chief of Union Fire Company No. 1 (the first female chief), marking a historic leadership change.

Berks County-based Weaver Nut Company, Inc. received a $492,633 grant from the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection to install a roof-mounted solar system at its facility, which will reduce its electricity use by 20% and save an estimated $62,133 in energy costs.

The grant is part of the RISE PA program and more funding rounds are open until April 15.

On Tuesday, high school boys lacrosse saw Berks Catholic win 8-7 in overtime with standout goals from Alex Sbota and solid play from Michael Tomaszewski as Wilson, Daniel Boone, Exeter and Twin Valley also secured wins.

Exeter beat Reading High 10–3 on Wednesday as Brandon Feathers went 2 for 3, Xavier Jacobs had two doubles and Matt Woram’s bid for a fifth home run ended—he went 0 for 3.

The Saints won 13–3 over Antietam, and Aidan Curley’s triple and Caleb Tobin’s single scored two runs.

The Reading Fightin Phils open their 2026 season today on the road against the Akron RubberDucks, with manager Al Pedrique backing a roster of young homegrown talent and veteran free agents.

They will host the Hartford Yard Goats on Tuesday, Apr. 7.

Wilson High's softball team remains unbeaten after defeating Governor Mifflin 10-1 on Wednesday in a BCIAA Division 1 game, with Werley and Futrick each driving in two runs plus pitcher Bratton striking out 12.

The Bulldogs now hold a 4-0 record while the Mustangs fall to 1-5.

Romeo Santos & Prince Royce Concert

8:00 – 9:30 PM — Santander Arena — Cost varies — Enjoy an evening of captivating Latin music from two of the genre's biggest stars.

MTB Try-it Day!

6-7:30 p.m. — The Nature Place at Angelica Park — Free event — Perfect for students to discover mountain biking, regardless of experience level.

Wheeling Nailers vs. Reading Royals

7-8 p.m. — Santander Arena — Stream available — Watch an exciting hockey clash as the Nailers take on the Royals live.

Wheeling Nailers vs. Reading Royals

7-10 p.m. — Santander Arena — Watch the game live on FloHockey with replays available for subscribers.

Lamb Of God Concert

6-9 p.m. — Santander Arena — Ticket information available online — Experience an electrifying evening with Lamb Of God as they rock Reading with an unforgettable performance.

Ephrata Rhythm & Brews

12-5 p.m. — Thomas P. Grater Community Park — Cost varies — Celebrate local craft beverages and music while enjoying a variety of food trucks in a spring park setting.