Good morning, Reading.

Kimberley Huber of Fleetwood launched Zachary Paul STRONG Ministries Inc to honor her son who died from cancer six years ago, establishing the nonprofit to expand support for local causes.

The ministry will host the annual Zach Strong memorial event on Nov. 1 from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.—offering food, raffles, and activities to aid vo-tech students and nearby families.

Berks County residents thanked county commissioners for a $7.1 million funding package that supports addiction recovery programs for more than 30,000 people.

James Lynch shared his story of relapse and hope at a Bern Township rehab—he is now applying to a nursing program to help others, showing how the funding has made a big difference in recovery journeys.

Opportunity House held its annual garden party at the community garden on the 400 block of Pear Street — the event celebrated a large harvest and honored volunteers who taught clients to grow fresh food.

Guests toured the garden and sampled produce from local partners.

A new shopping center called Broadcast District is being built in Spring Township with the county's first Whole Foods Market as its main store and BJ's Restaurant among its shops.

The project includes a mix of stores and homes—441 townhomes, 341 apartments and parks—with construction starting early in 2026 and openings planned for fall 2027.

The Hay Creek Apple Festival will take place at the Historic Joanna Furnace on Oct.

11 and 12 — offering apple foods, wagon rides, and heritage tours. Volunteers from the Hay Creek Valley Historical Association will guide visitors through historic buildings that show our local rural past.

The Reading Buccaneers Drum and Bugle Corps are looking for a new rehearsal space in Reading after losing Buck Field in 2017—now they need indoor and outdoor facilities with safe parking, restrooms, and water access for long practices.

City Council members and officials have pledged to help the group find potential sites like Hampden Field and the city-owned stadium to reestablish their historic home base in the community.

On Wednesday, a ceremony at City Park read aloud the names of 65 Berks natives killed or missing in Vietnam to mark the memorial’s 37th anniversary—62 red roses and 3 yellow roses were placed for those lost.

Local veterans and community members gathered to honor their service and remember the sacrifices made.

A letter from PennEnvironment said PJM stalled renewable energy projects that could cut electric bills after PPL customers saw a 16% rate rise in June — the delay may keep dirty energy in use and continue higher costs.

Berks County election officials have continued to fight a federal lawsuit challenge by Brandon Pugh — a Lyons resident who did not get the required votes to appear on the November ballot.

At a Thursday board meeting, special counsel said the board would follow the law while Pugh's appeal is pending.

The Reading Fire Department honored K9 Gracie at her retirement ceremony Friday at City Hall, marking eight years of service since December 2017 with over 275 fire scene responses.

Fire officials praised her accelerant detection work — noting she boosted investigation efforts — and announced plans to train a new K9 to continue the program.

Maddie Derfler scored two goals as Conrad Weiser defeated Fleetwood 4-0 in a BCIAA field hockey match on Thursday while Lily Wolf netted twice in Berks Catholic's 5-0 win over Brandywine Heights.

Gov.-Mifflin beat Schuylkill Valley 4-0 with Tessa Bolles leading the attack as schools recorded other key plays from Thursday's contests.

On September 26th, Berks Catholic beat Reading High 6-0 in field hockey as Parker Krajsa recorded three goals and three assists—Cassidy Arentz scored twice and Lily Wolf added a goal.

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.

Yellow Brick Joel: Face To Face Tribute

7:30-9 p.m. — Santander Performing Arts Center — Event rate parking available — Celebrate the legendary hits of Billy Joel and Elton John performed live.

Reading Hospital Road Run

12:00 – 3:30 PM — 420 S 6th Ave, West Reading, PA — Check registration for fees — Participate in the 1/2 marathon, 5K, or fun run to support the community.

How AI is Changing Photography

7-9 p.m. — Berks Photographic Society — $10 donation — Explore the transformative impact of AI on photography and enhance your creative potential.