Good morning, Reading.

Tammy Schaeffer of Pioneer Grange #1777 in Topton has been named PA Granger of the Year at the 153rd State Session after 50 years of service—she is known as Nurse Tammy for her work as a nurse and community volunteer at events like the Junior Grange Camp and Family Festival.

Her decades of dedication to local initiatives and volunteer roles at St. Peter’s UCC and the Brandywine Food Pantry earned her glowing recommendations for this honor.

Fleetwood Bank exceeded its $12,500 goal at its Annual Community Gift Basket Bingo by raising $14,240 for four local nonprofits.

Bank employees delivered the checks before the holidays—supporting local efforts in housing, health and youth care.

Heritage of Green Hills will host two holiday train room open houses on Dec.

13 and Dec. 20 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at 200 Tranquility Lane—visitors will view scale train models of local landmarks and enjoy holiday treats with a special market featuring local vendors on Dec. 13.

Fatz Guyz Pizzeria in Reading is giving a free Thanksgiving dinner today from noon to 4 p.m.—Chef Chuck Willig serves full plates of turkey, stuffing, mac and cheese, and greens while JD’s Steaks in Sinking Spring will hand out 200 bagged meals from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. and deliver another 50 meals through the Berks Community Action Program.

Local artisans offer unique, handmade holiday gifts in our area—recent Craft and Mercantile night markets showcased quality wares while a December 6 craft fair at Kimberton Waldorf School will feature over 30 vendors.

At Leesport Farmers Market today, families lined up to receive about 300 Thanksgiving meals offered by the Kleffel family in memory of their son Connor (killed eight years ago in a UTV accident).

Local donations and volunteer work helped prepare the meals for those in need.

Wyomissing will start its holiday season on December 6 by hosting its annual Lighting of the Greens & Holiday Marketplace at the Stone House lawn and pond area.

The event will feature children's crafts, a petting zoo, seasonal food, local vendors, live music, and a lighting ceremony with a rain date on December 7.

Reading man Jim Cirulli celebrated his 100th birthday on Nov 8 at his home on Fairview St. and his long life included work as a cook in the Army, a shoe repair specialist, and a business owner – he enjoys gardening and woodworking with family honoring his milestone.

Local businesses have teamed up to help families in need this Thanksgiving by collecting, preparing, and distributing meals and gift cards, with Gourmand Cafe, JPrutzman Enterprises, and Shillington Grocery Outlet leading the Serve Love effort.

The program works with local social workers to serve vetted families and has received extra donations like cakes and flowers — strengthening the community support network.

Gipprich Jewelers in Shillington marked 80 years in business as a family-owned store founded in 1945 that serves local customers with old-world craftsmanship and modern expertise.

The shop will donate all proceeds from watch battery sales through Dec. 15 to the Greater Mifflin Food Pantry—honoring its longstanding commitment to the community.

Reading’s Centre Park Historic District is hosting Christmas house tours and a champagne brunch that let visitors see Victorian, Queen Anne, and Colonial Revival homes decorated for the holidays—these events will take place later this year for those interested in local history.

UGI Utilities Inc. said customers will see a smaller-than-expected increase in natural gas bills effective Dec.

1 — the average residential bill will rise by 0.9% to $119.49, and assistance programs are available for those with limited income.

Berks County public schools saw about 52% of schools performing below the state average in English and roughly 48% in math on state tests, pointing to ongoing challenges after classroom disruptions.

Kutztown High School & its peers recorded the highest proficiency scores in their subjects, with local schools continuing to address the gaps in student performance.

Tulpehocken Township zoning board voted unanimously on Nov.

20 to deny a request for zoning relief for a 4,000-square-foot dog breeding kennel by Michael and Katrina Oberholtzer. Residents voiced concerns about noise, dog waste, and the owner’s lack of breeding experience—appeals can be filed within 30 days to Berks County Court.

The Leaders of Humor and Love

7-8:30 p.m. — Santander Arena — Tickets required — Enjoy a night of laughter with the acclaimed comedic duo Raymond & Miguel as they bring their celebrated tour to Reading.

The Rock Orchestra By Candlelight

8-9:30 p.m. — Santander Arena — Event rate parking available — Experience legendary rock and metal reimagined with classical elegance in a stunning gothic atmosphere.

Reading Royals vs. Wheeling Nailers Hockey Game

7:00-8:30 p.m. — Santander Arena — Group tickets starting at $10 with food add-ons — Experience an exciting night of hockey with affordable group options.

Reading Royals vs. Worcester Railers

7-8:30 p.m. — Santander Arena — Group Tickets starting at $10 — Enjoy an exciting hockey match and tasty treats with your crew.

Kuarantine - KISS Tribute with Chris Jericho

7-9:30 p.m. — Nightclub Reverb — $25 ADV | $30 DOS — Experience the world’s best non-makeup KISS cover band with a rock n roll party featuring Chris Jericho.

A Charlie Brown Christmas

7:00 – 8:30 PM — Santander Arena — Ticket prices vary — Enjoy a beloved holiday classic brought to life on stage in Reading.

Champions of Magic

7:00-8:30 p.m. — Santander Arena — Tickets from $27 — Experience an enchanting evening filled with extraordinary magic performances.

Adirondack Thunder vs. Reading Royals

7-8:30 p.m. — Santander Arena — Tickets starting at $13 — Watch an exciting matchup in the AHL as Thunder take on the Royals.

World Ballet Company's The Nutcracker

1:00 – 2:30 PM — Santander Performing Arts Center — Ticket prices may vary — Experience a magical ballet performance this holiday season.