Good morning, Reading.

Wacky Water Wednesday returns for its sixth season in Reading starting June 18 and will run every Wednesday from 1–4 p.m. through August 20 — fire hydrants will be opened to create free spray zones for kids.

Retired 69 News anchor Rob Vaughn—who spent over 30 years on air—has been honored as a 2025 Silver Circle honoree by the Mid-Atlantic Chapter of NATAS; his induction will be celebrated at the 43rd annual Mid-Atlantic Emmy Awards in Philadelphia on September 20.

Jeremy and Joanna Martin and their sons received a $310,000 PIDA loan from the Greater Berks Development Fund to buy their family farm at 529 Ridge Road in Shoemakersville—helped by First Citizens Community Bank.

Their financing will support local agriculture while following county recommendations to boost the sector.

Twin Valley High School Class of 2025 celebrated their graduation at Santander Arena in Reading on June 7 — valedictorian Ashley Siv called the milestone an incredible achievement after what felt like a forever journey.

The Muhlenberg School District Board approved its final 2025-26 budget on Wednesday night, raising the property tax rate from 36.656 mills to 38.406 mills—about a 4.8% rise—and cutting staff by letting go of six teachers, two social workers, a behavior specialist and a psychologist while lowering summer wages for teachers to save over $100,000. Some board members are worried about fewer mental health services and will meet to find extra funds before October 1.

The Berks County South Campus is closed to the public today after dangerous legionella bacteria was found in the water supply at the Mohnton facility.

Nearly 95 county employees will work remotely while contractors fix the system and operations continue at alternative locations.

Pam Menet, director of community and economic development, gave county commissioners a presentation on the IMAGINE Berks housing study that showed a shortage of affordable homes due to outdated stock and job gains in healthcare and manufacturing.

Commissioners and local groups discussed that new housing and redevelopment efforts must meet rising needs—this review will help shape the upcoming Comprehensive Plan.

The County of Berks South Campus at 400 East Wyomissing Avenue in Mohnton is closed to the public because Legionella bacteria was found in the water system—county contractors will perform remediations while 95 staff work remotely and departments conduct business at alternative locations.

On June 11, Maria Alvarez wrote a letter urging officials to invest in nursing home care because staff shortages and missing supplies put residents at risk and workers under strain.

She said that higher wages and better health care will help everyone get the quality care they need.

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.