Good morning, Reading.

Habitat for Humanity dedicated two new homes on the 400 block of Miltimore Street on Monday, June 29.

The ceremony marked the completion of the seventh and eighth houses in the Buttonwood Gateway neighborhood as city officials praised the boost to affordable homeownership.

On Monday, the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints delivered 40,000 pounds of food to Helping Harvest – supporting those facing food insecurity in Berks and Schuylkill counties while honoring the signing of the Declaration of Independence as part of America’s 250th celebration.

Robeson Township police are preparing for heavy crowds and high temperatures as the Union Pacific Big Boy train passes through Berks County on Thursday between 3:35 and 3:55 p.m. They have set up a tent and water station along the route to support safety while the train makes stops in Hamburg, Leesport and Muhlenberg Townships.

Pennsylvania American Water encourages customers to use water wisely before summer’s hotter and drier conditions strain supplies.

The company advises watering early or late and checking for leaks (to lower bills) to help protect local resources.

Yesterday, law enforcement and public safety officials held a conference at Dry Brooks Boat Launch at Blue Marsh Lake to urge residents to drive and boat sober for Independence Day; enforcement will be boosted as the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission joins Operation Dry Water (July 3 to July 5).

Dog owners in Reading must bring pets indoors from today through July 5 during scheduled periods, per a Code Red issued by the Animal Rescue League in response to sustained heat indices above 95.

Non-compliant pets risk removal + boarding fees.

Three egg companies agreed to donate 3.4 million eggs to food banks in Pennsylvania as part of a settlement over allegations of price manipulation; they will also implement new antitrust safeguards to prevent future violations.

Today, as extreme heat draws more people to local rivers to cool off, first responders warn that strong, hidden currents and submerged debris can quickly turn a fun dip into a dangerous situation (lifeguarded pools and designated swimming areas are recommended for safer cooling).

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.

The Hindley Street Country Club Live Performance

7:30-9 p.m. — Santander Arena — Ticketed event — Enjoy an evening of re-imagined covers performed by a talented group of Adelaide musicians.