Good morning, Reading.

Two longtime philanthropic leaders will retire in 2027; Pat Giles steps down from The Wyomissing Foundation in May while Tammy White (with 37 years’ service) retires from United Way in June before assuming leadership at the foundation.

Both organizations plan a coordinated transition to serve the community.

The Reading Police Beneficial Association honored late Stratton Marmarou at its Scholarship and Benefit Baseball Night at Redner’s Event Center this evening.

The event awarded a commemorative plaque and the second Stratton Marmarou Scholarship to a local high school graduate while highlighting Officer Zachary Rivera’s lifesaving actions in 2025.

Riders and drivers in Berks were urged to share the road during a PennDOT safety event at Jim Deitrich Park — summer riding is at its peak.

Officers Calabria and Walters from Muhlenberg Township Police stressed that defensive riding and proper training are key to keeping everyone safe.

Fantasyland Farms, managed by the Pool family, has maintained 133 acres in North Heidelberg Township for 34 years.

Their operation includes 450 dairy animals and 60 Wagyu cattle plus crops such as corn and soybeans to preserve a legacy for future generations in production agriculture.

A celebration of life benefit event for fallen Officer Kristen Yeager is planned at Redner's Event Center at FirstEnergy Stadium on Oct.

4 from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m., where organizers seek food donations, raffle items, and sponsors to support her family (tickets go on sale in August).

In spring 1776, local forges in Berks and Chester counties began crafting cannons to protect local waterways from British threats—early tests led to explosions before experts perfected the process, and remnants of these weapons remain visible today.

Visitors can enjoy the Colonial 250th Anniversary Celebration at the Daniel Boone Homestead in Exeter Township this Saturday from noon to 8 p.m. The event offers colonial demonstrations, wagon rides, and hands-on activities that bring our nation's roots to life.

Barry Manilow’s farewell tour performs tonight at Santander Arena at 7 (part of a busy week of local events), while Community Days begins Friday on Gov. Mifflin Intermediate School grounds with free food, games and fireworks on July 4.

Additional shows and art festivals fill Reading and nearby areas this weekend.

Reading Hospital in West Reading is hosting an emergency blood drive today from 8:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at the Clock Tower entrance due to increased pressure on supplies from recent trauma cases and chemotherapy treatments, and hospital staff urge community donors to help.

During Tuesday's six-game series at Coca-Cola Park, Francisco Lindor (all-star) recorded 2 for 5 with two runs in a 9-6 win as part of his rehab; meanwhile, manager Tank Adamson said Andrew Painter will return to pitch this weekend after side sessions this week.

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.

Super Chevy Showdown

All day — Maple Grove Raceway — Check website for entry fees — A weekend filled with thrilling races, classic car shows, and all things Chevy.