Good morning, Reading.

Safe Berks announced that Erica Caceres is the new Permanent Director of Development and will lead fundraising, outreach, and strategic marketing to support survivors.

Her appointment is set to boost community engagement and strengthen the organization’s mission in Berks County.

Customers Bank was named on Business Insider’s America’s High Growth Companies 2026 list for its strong revenue and earnings gains.

The West Reading bank posted a 15% revenue jump over five years — showing its steady growth and commitment to customer service.

Markers have been installed on Mt. Penn to honor a historic Hessian encampment linked to early settlers from Germany's Hesse region (which played a key role in shaping Pennsylvania German heritage).

The display celebrates the area's rich cultural roots.

Seven concerts are set for next week.

On Friday, Ray Bull plays at The Foundry; Saturday features Killswitch Engage at Wind Creek, INJI at Union Transfer, and Bleachers at TD Pavilion — Tuesday and Wednesday bring Worm at Underground Arts, Chinese American Bear at PhilaMOCA, and Wilco at Levitt Pavilion.

Union Pacific’s No. 4014 steam locomotive (Big Boy) will stop in Muhlenberg Township and Pottstown as part of its America 250 journey to Philadelphia.

Local rail fans can view the historic engine during its scheduled visit later this week.

Bill Nagle from Laureldale tells how his ancestor (George Nagle) led Berks County riflemen during the Revolution, using long rifles to protect local resources and aid the Continental Army; the family is honored at Charles Evans Cemetery and through a Pennsylvania historical marker at the Berks History Center.

This week, multiple outdoor and indoor events enliven the region as summer nears.

The activities range from concerts at Highmark Mann Center and a staged reading in Reading to interactive art shows and community markets at GoggleWorks & local festivals for residents of all ages.

Penn State Berks students have conducted research that spans topics from emotional regulation to environmental science.

This year they presented projects at BURCS on campus and earned $5,000 summer fellowships to support their studies (boosting skills in engineering, business, and science).

Twin Valley High School awarded 248 diplomas during its commencement at Santander Arena in Reading on Saturday, June 6.

School officials and student speakers shared inspiring messages as the class of 2026 celebrated an important milestone.

On Tuesday, officials representing Pennsylvania agencies showcased a $430,000 investment at Zeiset Farm in Caernarvon Township to restore over 15 miles of streams as part of Chesapeake Bay Awareness Week, aiming to improve the Upper Conestoga Watershed and support agricultural conservation.

Wyomissing girls lacrosse beat West Chester Rustin 14 to 12 Tuesday at Penn Manor High School to secure their state title spot; they will face Twin Valley at 10 a.m. Saturday at Penn State.

Key player Karly Hyde scored five goals (record 23 to 2 overall).

Berks Classic Pickleball Tournament

All day — West Reading Pickleball — Entry fee required — Showcase your skills in an exciting pickleball competition with friends.

Arena Football – Zurich Ibexx vs. Pennsylvania Benjamins

2:30-6:30 p.m. — Santander Arena — All In Pricing Available — Experience exciting traditional arena football with teams from the US, UK, and Canada.

Ty Myers Concert

7:30 p.m. — Santander Arena — $39.50 — Experience the soulful blend of blues, rock, and country from rising star Ty Myers.

Barry Manilow Live in Concert

7:00 – 8:30 PM — Santander Arena — Starting at $39.50 — Experience the legendary Barry Manilow perform hits from over five decades of music history.

The Winner Stands Alone Book Discussion

6-8 p.m. — Craft 2700 — Free entry — Gather with fellow readers, enjoy good food, and discuss this month's book over drinks.

Reading Fightin Phils vs New Hampshire Fisher Cats

7-8 p.m. — Reading Fightin Phils — Check event page for details — Enjoy a night of baseball with a special Princess Tribute theme and exclusive merchandise.

World Cup 2026 Fan Zone Celebration

11 a.m. – 6 p.m. — Santander Arena — Free entry — Experience the excitement of the World Cup with live match broadcasts, entertainment, and a vibrant block party atmosphere.