Good morning, Reading.

On Sept. 11th, ACECO volunteers and the Hoist Up!

Outreach Committee partnered with United Way of Berks County to distribute 250 backpacks filled with school supplies to local students — delivered to groups including Stony Creek Elementary, Big Brothers Big Sisters, and Reading YMCA — to help them start the school year prepared.

Fine Wine and Good Spirits closed its Wyomissing store and relocated to a new space at Broadcasting Square on 2721 N.

Meridian Blvd in Spring Township; the premium store opened on Sept 10—offering 4250 wines and spirits while transferring all former employees—and now features a Made in Pennsylvania section for local products.

At Clover Hill and Vynecrest Vineyards and Wineries in Upper Macungie, growers report a record harvest thanks to dry and cool weather that improved grape quality.

Owner Sam Landis described the season as the harvest of a lifetime — underscoring local winemaking strengths in the Lehigh Valley.

The Greater Reading Chamber Alliance honored 22 projects at its Building Berks Awards & Expo held Wednesday at GoggleWorks Center for the Arts, recognizing work in construction, design, and investment.

A panel of judges reviewed 34 nominations representing $186 million in investment and 2,600 jobs + the awards show the teamwork driving local growth.

Reading City Council considered a new zoning amendment that would regulate short-term rentals—including Airbnb and Vrbo—to update rules and raise city revenue.

If approved, property owners in some zones will need permits or variances, and a public hearing is set for next Monday night.

Spotlight PA will cover key local elections this November by offering detailed candidate guides and interactive voter tools for both municipal and judicial races—focusing on areas like Berks and State College to ensure clear, unbiased information for voters.

The Pennsylvania Housing Finance Agency has issued a Request for Proposals to support local housing projects with over $85 million in funds from the PHARE system—applications opened on Sept.

15 and must be submitted by 2 p.m. on Nov. 20. The agency will host a webinar on Sept. 23 at 10 a.m. to explain the process for interested groups.

South Heidelberg Township is tackling speeding after several accidents and rising resident concerns prompted new paint, street markings, and increased patrols on Walters Avenue, Montello and Mountain Home Road, and Huntzinger Road.

The township will launch federally funded projects including a Walters Avenue bridge replacement and a Krick Lane extension next year.

Local health officials report that fall vaccine season has begun as updated COVID boosters and annual flu shots are now available at local pharmacies, clinics, and doctor’s offices.

Dr. Powell urges seniors, people with chronic conditions, and the immunocompromised to get vaccinated soon—before holiday travel may lead to more COVID hospitalizations.

On Monday, in a high school golf meet, Twin Valley beat Brandywine Heights at Golden Oaks when Nate Shaffer shot one over par 37 to help the Raiders score 158 against 171.

In other matches, Wilson won over Conrad Weiser at Galen Hall and the Bulldogs defeated the Scouts — all contests played on Monday.

Dusty Slay Comedy Show

7-8:30 p.m. — Santander Performing Arts Center — Ticket prices vary — Enjoy an evening of laughter with Nashville's stand-up comedian Dusty Slay.

Los Tigres Del Norte Concert

8:00 – 9:30 PM — Santander Arena — Tickets start at $81 — Enjoy live performances from the legendary band Los Tigres Del Norte in Reading, PA.

Beethoven Symphony No. 9

7:30-9 p.m. — Santander Performing Arts Center — Tickets available — Experience Beethoven's Ninth Symphony, a powerful celebration of unity and the human spirit.

Treaty Oak Revival Concert

8-9:30 p.m. — Santander Arena — Event rate parking available — Experience the energetic blend of Red Dirt country and punk rock with Treaty Oak Revival.

Avatar: The Last Airbender In Concert

7:00-8:30 p.m. — Santander Arena — Tickets required — Experience the epic journey of Avatar: The Last Airbender through a live orchestra performance of its beloved score.

Times Past, Time's Passed: An Exhibition of Paintings by Robert Seabourne

You are invited to the reception for an art show of paintings by Robert Seabourne that pay tribute to the beauty & history of the Oley Valley. The show runs from October 1-25, at The Crossroads Guitar & Art in Gilbertsville.

The Music Of Hans Zimmer and Others

8-9:30 p.m. — Santander Performing Arts Center — Ticket prices vary — Experience the epic scores of Hans Zimmer and more in a captivating live performance.

Aaron Lewis Concert

3:30-9 p.m. — Santander Performing Arts Center — Ticket prices vary — Enjoy an evening with the Grammy nominated former Staind frontman as he promotes his new solo album.

Aeros and Autos Car Show

9 AM – 2 PM — Reading Regional Airport — Kids 8 and Under Free — Experience a unique showcase of classic cars and aircraft at this community-oriented event.

X Revolucion Salsera Live

9 p.m. — El Primo Bar & Grill — Ticket prices vary — Dance the night away with X Revolucion Salsera and enjoy drink specials.