Good morning, Reading.

The Holiday Toy Run returns Sunday, Oct.

19 to launch CHOR Youth and Family Services’ 2025 Holiday Gift Drive at Meadowbrook Country Club on 1153 Rick Road in Reading – hundreds of motorcycles, cars, and supporters will check in from 10:30 a.m. to noon before riding at 12:30 p.m., with participants asked to bring a toy, gift card, or donation. This event marks the 35th year of a tradition that helps fulfill holiday wishes for local children and teens.

On Thursday, 44 dogs were rescued from a recreational vehicle traveling through Reading after a good Samaritan noticed unsanitary conditions.

The Animal Rescue League transferred 38 dogs to PSPCA while the remaining six went into foster care — the shelter now asks for volunteers, donations, and support as it works to care for all the animals.

Smokies Tobacco Shop opened its second cigar lounge in downtown Reading at 35 N.

Sixth St. inside the restored historic Berks County Trust Building— the lounge features a walk-in humidor, recliners, an 86-inch television, shuffle board, pool tables and a coffee bar with Italian espresso drinks.

Today, the Reading Public Museum hosts Museum After Dark and gives adults a chance to enjoy its art with spooky attractions such as monster mud sculptures, creature portraits, oracle readings, a photo spot, and food options—wine, pizza, and kettle corn.

The event, a departure from the museum's usual kids programs, will be followed by a Holiday Cheer Night Out in December.

Alvernia University celebrated its biggest fundraising success at the President’s Dinner at the DoubleTree by Hilton Reading — the Partners in Progress Campaign reached $71.5 million while the event honored alumni, community leaders, and local organizations with awards.

More funds will support students, programs, and downtown development.

Reading has modernized four park fieldhouses with upgrades that improve heating, cooling, lighting and insulation while preserving historic structures (located at Baer, Keffer, Pendora and Schlegel parks) as part of a $17.9 million project.

The final open house will be held Oct. 21 from 4 to 6 p.m. at Keffer Park (the city expects to save $13.3 million over 20 years) as it works toward renewable energy goals.

Parking problems in Reading continue as the Parking Authority runs an amnesty program until November 30 that waives late fees and offers a 25% discount on fines for tickets of $45 or more+ local drivers and business owners say the limited parking supply remains a challenge.

Baja Beach Wellness will donate a free membership to each local breast cancer survivor when a new member signs up this month in support of survivors— the salon will host open houses at all four Berks County locations this weekend and double its donations on those days.

Matthew Lackman became Alvernia’s first national wrestling champion after he scored a winning takedown during the title bout.

His brother Nathan, a two-time champion who returned as a teammate, supported him during the match — both brothers leaving a lasting legacy for the program.

Wilson won the BCIAA girls volleyball championship with a 25-12, 25-17, 25-17 win over Exeter on Thursday at Gov. Mifflin—improving to 20-0 and moving into the District 3 Class 4A tournament starting Oct.

22. At 7 p.m. today, top-seeded Oley Valley will face Wilson in the BCIAA field hockey championship at Alvernia University.

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.

Fall 2025 Job Fair

1-5 p.m. — Redner's Event Center — Free entry — Connect with local employers and explore exciting job opportunities on your career journey.

Halloween Bash

12-2 p.m. — Bernville Area Community Library — Free entry — Celebrate Halloween with crafts, snacks, and a live concert by the Reading Philharmonic Orchestra.

Michael Jackson Tribute by Who's Bad

7:30-9 p.m. — Santander Performing Arts Center — Ticketed event — Experience a power-packed tribute to the King of Pop with the longest-running Michael Jackson tribute band.

Reading Royals vs. Trois-Rivières Lions

3:00 – 4:30 PM — Santander Arena — Group Tickets from $10 — Enjoy an exciting hockey matchup with affordable group outings available.

Dustin Lynch & Scotty McCreery Concert

6:30-8:30 p.m. — Santander Arena — Event rate parking available — Enjoy an evening of hit country music with top artists Dustin Lynch and Scotty McCreery.

Reading Symphony Orchestra - Mozart and More

7:30-9 p.m. — Santander Performing Arts Center — Enjoy a night of classical elegance featuring Mozart’s beloved compositions alongside Elgar and Brahms.

Reading Royals vs. Wheeling Nailers

3:00 – 4:30 PM — Santander Arena — Group tickets starting at $10 — Catch an exciting hockey showdown with affordable group options.