Good morning, Reading.

Local high school friends Madeline Schoener and Anna Glick have taken over as publicity co‑chairs for the Oley Valley Community Fair.

They will use local business skills + creative teamwork to manage ads, live broadcasts, and print outreach for the fair that brings the community together.

United Way of Berks County began its 10-week fundraising campaign at FirstEnergy Stadium Wednesday morning — it aims to raise $10.5 million for more than 80 local health and human service programs, with $1.65 million already raised during a Day of Caring with over 300 volunteers.

A $57,000 renovation has upgraded the agricultural building for the upcoming Oley Valley Fair, with new smooth stairs + a pulley system that makes moving display cages easier.

Local contractor Howard Stoltzfus completed the work, and visitors will see the improvements at the fair.

Members 1st Charitable Foundation awarded $57,000 to 14 nonprofits in its third funding cycle for 2026 to support food, housing, mental health and financial education.

Eligible organizations can apply for its fourth cycle until Nov. 1 & winners will be notified on Dec. 1.

Giant employees volunteered at Helping Harvest Fresh Food Bank on Wednesday, packing boxes and donating $35,000 + a truckload of produce to support local families during Hunger Action Month.

The effort benefits food relief initiatives in Berks and Schuylkill counties.

Reading Public Library released a limited-edition card featuring work by local artist Anu Morgan to mark the 20th anniversary of Berks Pride Fest.

The card is free (while supplies last) and contest designs are on display at its 100 S. Fifth St. branch during Library Card Sign-Up Month.

Australian rockers Men at Work will perform Friday at Santander Performing Arts Center, bringing classic hits + local favorite Jeffrey Gaines to Reading.

Their return reflects overwhelming fan demand and promises a lively, must-see show.

Yocum Institute for Arts Education is launching two free theater-based mental health programs for Berks County schools this fall.

The interactive plays titled "I'm OK" for elementary students and "At Some Point We Have to Talk" for high schools are designed to spark conversation about feelings and provide support.

New Morgan Borough Council approved a zoning amendment on Monday that creates a data center overlay by converting a residential zone to industrial (132 acres) to set clear rules for future development; environmental groups have raised concerns about water quality while officials say the change supports proactive planning.

The Fightin Phils ended a 10-year playoff win drought with a 21-4 victory over the Hartford Yard Goats, scoring 12 runs in a key second inning Tuesday night at FirstEnergy Stadium.

The team will play two more games in Connecticut today and Friday.