Good morning, Reading.

Melissa MacKinnon, a Berks County mom who beat cancer and works as an aerospace test engineering lab supervisor, ran for the Super Mom title in Women’s World Magazine (the contest raises money for the Children's Miracle Network and offers a weekend getaway in Napa and $20,000).

Voting closed Thursday at 7 p.m.

The Reading School Board approved a tentative $482 million budget for the 2025-26 school year on Wednesday with no tax hike, noting increased costs for staff salaries, health care, pensions and a 74% rise in charter school tuition+ the district expects $365 million in state funds and has set aside half for contingencies. The final vote is scheduled for June 25 and the draft may change before the June 30 state deadline.

Nativity BVM High School held its graduation on May 29—uniting a class of student athletes, club leaders, and scholars—who now plan to attend colleges like the United States Military Academy, West Virginia University, Penn State University, and Villanova University as they pursue fields ranging from sports media and computer engineering to finance and nursing.

Literacy Council of Reading-Berks will honor Executive Director Ryan Breisch for 30 years of service at its 'Turning Dreams into Reality' breakfast on June 6th at 7:30 a.m. at the DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel in downtown Reading + the Council will also present the 'Leader for Literacy' award to Reading Area Community College, Connections Work and Berks Latino Workforce Development Corporation for their support.

EPA officials say the cleanup of the old Lincoln Chemical Co. building in Reading is nearly complete after they removed over 550 containers of hazardous waste and spent about $1.8 million—work that began in late 2023 after two fires damaged the building.

U.S. Representative Chrissy Houlahan’s office is accepting applications for a two-year, full-time Green and Gold Fellowship in Reading for qualified veterans or Gold Star family members—this paid role lets the fellow act as a Constituent Advocate.

The appointee will work with local residents on federal casework, attend community events, and earn between $55,000 and $67,000 a year while working in-person Wednesday through Friday.

The Berks County Board of Elections voted Thursday to receive the unofficial count of votes from the May 20 primary and will begin a five-day public inspection period today at 8 a.m. The board also referred three election complaints to the District Attorney's Office for investigating issues with campaign signs and a text message advertisement.

Visitors to French Creek State Park and Nolde Forest Environmental Education Center now get free menstrual products under a new DCNR plan (announced Tuesday at Kings Gap Environmental Education Center) that places supplies in park offices with signs in English and Spanish.

The program covers 68 state parks and aims to remove barriers for parkgoers in accessing basic hygiene needs.

Penn State Health has named Dr. Michael E.

Kupferman as the new CEO of its $4.2 billion health system; he will assume the role on June 23. He will work with the College of Medicine—improving care, research, and teaching—while continuing to treat head and neck cancer patients.

Ride the Helldiver Experience

9 AM – 5 PM — Mid Atlantic Air Museum — Admission fee required — Take an unforgettable ride in one of the only flying SB2C Helldivers in the world during WWII Weekend.

Victor Manuelle Concert

8:00-10:00 p.m. — Santander Arena — Last-minute tickets available — Experience the vibrant rhythms of Victor Manuelle live in Reading, PA.

Run For The Ages Trail Race

8:30 a.m. — Nolde Forest, Reading, PA — $30-$35 entry fee — Experience a scenic 10K trail through beautiful Nolde Forest with age-graded starts for a fair competition.

Travel Photography Near and Far

7-9 PM — Berks Photographic Society — $10 donation for non-members — Discover the art of travel photography through engaging stories and stunning visuals.

Sommerfest Saturday June 21 Gates open at 3 Music 4-7

The Ultimate German celebration of Summer in Berks County's best kept secret. Live music by the Alpenlanders, with food and beverage available. $10 for non members $5 for members

5th Annual Pawfest Block Party

12-5 p.m. — Reading Liederkranz — Family-friendly fun — Celebrate with a day of activities honoring our furry friends and German culture.

Fireflies: Nature’s Fireworks

7:30-9:00 p.m. — Angora Fruit Farm, Berks County Parks & Recreation — $ — Explore the magic of fireflies and learn about Pennsylvania's state insect in a picturesque setting.

Berks Celtic Fest 2025

11 AM – 5 PM — Reading Liederkranz — Free for RLK members — Celebrate Celtic culture with food, music, and festivities.