Good morning, Reading.

Members 1st Charitable Foundation awarded $56,500 in grants to 13 nonprofits across 12 counties during its second funding cycle for 2026, including $3,500 to Animal Rescue League of Berks County Inc. and $5,000 to Safe Berks (both in Berks).

Applications for its third cycle close Aug. 1.

Fleetwood Area Community Organization will host the America 250 parade on Sunday, June 28 at 2 p.m. on North Richmond Street, as various groups converge along a route where residents and businesses are encouraged to decorate and join in celebrating the nation's history and freedoms.

The Olivet Boys and Girls Club hosted a Juneteenth presentation Thursday at Pandora Park that celebrated cultural similarities and differences.

The celebration continues Saturday with the annual Celebrate Freedom Community Event at Zion Baptist Church (1:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.)

The West Reading Police Department is enforcing parking restrictions starting at 7 a.m. for the Art on the Avenue festival on Penn Avenue from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.—local vendors will offer music, food, art and more for the community.

Fares for BARTA Special Services will increase on Aug.

1, with the average full fare rising from $24.92 to $29.50 and ADA riders paying $3.60 per trip while personal care attendants ride free. A public hearing will be held on July 1 from 4 to 6 p.m. at BARTA’s offices at 1700 N. 11th St.

The Berks County Board of Commissioners approved a memorandum on Thursday to join a regional elder abuse multidisciplinary team (a joint effort with Lehigh and Lancaster counties) aimed at improving protection for older residents amid rising complex cases.

A local fire company warns that banning skill games will cut off extra income that brought in about $35,000 last year and which supports its operations in the community.

Local officials are set to review the proposed policy change soon.

Joanne Malafarina (South Heidelberg Township) urged property owners at Berkshire Mall in Wyomissing to build a TopGolf on the old Sears land to generate revenue and revitalize the aging site.

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.

Upcycled! Rugmaking Workshop

1-3 p.m. — Berks County Heritage Center — $10 per person — Create a unique hand-made rug using traditional techniques and modern materials from scrap fabric.

Pretzel History and Tales

7-8 p.m. — Berks County Heritage Center — Free entry — Discover how the pretzel lived through Prohibition and other fascinating stories.

Altoona Curve at Reading Fightin Phils

6:45-7:45 p.m. — Reading Fightin Phils — Ticket prices vary — Enjoy the excitement of minor league baseball and the spectacular Carpenter MEGA BLAST FIREWORKS show!

FIFA World Cup 2026™ Fan Zone Watch Party

2-6 p.m. — Santander Arena — Free entry — Experience the World Cup excitement with live broadcasts and a festive atmosphere for fans of all ages.