Good morning, Reading.

Members of West Lawn United Methodist Church started a small garden at 100 Woodside Ave in spring 2025 to grow fruits and vegetables for free pick-up and serve as a learning center for families.

The team meets four times each season to tend the garden — strengthening community ties in the neighborhood.

Reading residents gathered at Pendora Park on Saturday for Party at the Park, enjoying educational programs, giveaways, bounce houses, free haircuts, and entertainment.

Councilman Jaime Baez Jr. hosted the free event — raising over $10,000 in sponsorships and distributing 200 backpacks for children returning to school.

Mary’s Shelter received a $500,000 donation and donated furniture from the late Laura Sander’s estate on Monday, Aug.

24. The funds will help the shelter expand services by furnishing new apartments for teens transitioning after turning 18.

Martin and Melissa Moyer have run One Hill Farm for over 40 years and preserved 128 acres in Marion Township to support local agriculture; their niece Kayla Keeney and her husband now manage the dairy (which includes 136 cows) to carry on the family legacy.

The Veterans Coalition of Pennsylvania will host its Save 22 event Sunday, Sept.

20 from 1 to 3 p.m. at Nativity BVM Ukrainian Catholic Cemetery in Cumru Township to raise veteran suicide awareness and support veteran services with a centerpiece display of *660 American flags* and food trucks and vendors.

Pagoda Skyline Inc., led by Corrie Crupi-Zana, is working with city government to build a pavilion and concert area on Mount Penn, with plans to start later this year.

Volunteers are cleaning up historic structures while restoring the mountain's charm — a cherished local resource.

Valentino’s closed suddenly Tuesday evening at 15492 Kutztown Road in Maxatawny Township after nearly 50 years of service.

The restaurant thanked its loyal customers and staff while reflecting on shared milestones and traditions.

Berks Sinfonietta opened its 13th season Saturday at Atonement Lutheran Church in Wyomissing with scholarship winners Joshua Griffith and Grace Campling performing works by Dvořák, Koussevitzky, and Brahms (upcoming concerts are scheduled for Oct.

3 and Jan. 9) to continue the season.

The Phillies farm system shows promise — Alex McFarlane is now in the major league bullpen and Bryan Rincon is performing well at Double-A in Reading.

Aidan Miller is sidelined with a back injury as other prospects continue developing.

Reading Hospital is hosting its Road Run on Sunday, Oct.

18, with options for a 5K, half marathon and one-mile fun run/walk, inviting runners of all ages to join the community event.

Local high schools competed in golf on Wednesday at Golden Oaks, Manor Golf Course, Heidelberg Country Club, Willow Hollow, and Reading Country Club; Oley Valley beat Kutztown, Wilson defeated Hamburg, Schuylkill Valley edged Fleetwood, Twin Valley bested Muhlenberg, and Daniel Boone won over Tulpehocken.