Here's your local news at a glance for Friday, the 4th of July.
Good morning, Reading.
Modesto Fiume retired Monday after more than 30 years as director of Opportunity House — he transformed the emergency shelter into a community support organization serving men, women, and children; Alyssa Bushkie now leads the nonprofit as it continues to expand its services.
City officials announced that Downtown Reading's 2nd Annual Color & Art Fest Block Party will take place on Saturday, July 12th from noon to 6 p.m. The free event covers the 600—700 blocks of Penn Street and features Nemesis Fitness's 5th Annual Color Run, live art and food from local vendors.
Vallis Slaughter, 40, pleaded guilty to third degree murder before Judge James Gavin for the March 24 killing of Julio Torres at a diner parking lot in West Reading and DNA from a foam cup and cigarette butt linked him to the case, leading to a sentence of 15 to 30 years in state prison.
Muhlenberg Township police released security images of a car seen near a Temple strip mall on Sunday shortly before 11 a.m. in a shooting that left a 34-year-old man injured and hospitalized—detectives are asking anyone with tips to come forward.
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers raised the harmful algal bloom level at Blue Marsh Lake from a Watch to an Advisory on July 3 due to moderate amounts of blue-green algae.
Officials warn visitors to avoid contact with discolored water or algae mats—children and pets should be kept away to reduce health risks.
Berks election board adopted new guidelines that require candidates to correct campaign advertisement and signage complaints by taking actions equal to or greater than the violation and providing proof within seven days or before Election Day—if not, complaints will be reviewed further or sent to the district attorney’s office. The board also voted to apply for a state grant to help cover election costs, noting that Berks received $1.3 million from the state in 2024.
State Treasurer Stacy Garrity said the second round of Pennsylvania Money Match checks—totaling $9.2 million in unclaimed property—were mailed yesterday and should be cashed.
Residents expecting payments are advised to check their mailboxes.
Twin Valley's Drew Engle was one of three Berks players named to USA Lacrosse’s Boys All-America Team — two from Twin Valley and one from Wilson were honored.
Ryan Adams Concert
7:00-9:30 p.m. — Santander Arena — Ticket prices vary — Catch Ryan Adams live and enjoy an evening of incredible music.
Intro to D&D with the Park Rangers
6-8 p.m. — Berks County Heritage Center — Free entry — Explore the world of Dungeons and Dragons through guided one-shot adventures.
Jorge Medina and Josi Cuen - JUNTOS
8-10 p.m. — Santander Arena — Last-minute concert tickets available — Experience a vibrant performance by Jorge Medina and Josi Cuen in Reading, PA.
Michael Blaustein Live Show
7-8:30 p.m. — Santander Performing Arts Center — Ticket prices vary — Enjoy an entertaining evening with comedian Michael Blaustein, famous from MTV and Comedy Central.
Back In Black and Electric Love Tribute Concert
7-9:30 p.m. — Nightclub Reverb — $15 ADV | $20 DOS — Rock out to AC/DC and The Cult tribute bands in an electrifying night of classic rock.
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