Good morning, Reading.

Community events continue with Penn State Berks Benefitting THON hosting its ninth annual benefit dinner Jan.

16 at Redner’s Event Center at the Fightin Phils Stadium; $100 tickets are available until Jan. 4 — a free concert will also be held Dec. 19 at St. Paul's Lutheran Church.

The Reading Royals set a record with over 3,500 teddy bears donated at a game earlier this month and unloaded the haul today at One Luv Outreach in Reading+ the team will deliver bears to St. Luke's Children's Hospital near Bethlehem on Thursday.

Youth Volunteer Corps of Reading received the 2025 International Affiliate of the Year honor at an event in Kansas City on Nov.

8, while alumna EliAnna Bermudez was named Distinguished Alumni for her international volunteer work; the program empowers nearly 1,000 youth through 330 local projects (highlighting its community impact).

Operation Holiday, now in its 35th year, has partnered with 21 local agencies to support families this holiday season by providing gifts and grocery cards (assisting 199 families with 403 children) across three counties.

Stephanie, who once slept in her car during hard times, said the program offers much-needed help.

After the November 13 Purchase Party, the Reading Public Museum acquired a large ceramic sculpture by the Philadelphia-area artist Kukuli Velarde.

The work offers a modern take on ancient Latin American art and now joins the museum’s permanent collection at 500 Museum Road.

On Monday, a crowd gathered in City Park to unveil a plaque marking the site of a Civil War-era military hospital that operated from 1862 to 1863 (officials, historians and nursing society members highlighted the work of the Ladies Volunteer Aid Association).

Tec Centro Berks will use its nearly $200k grant from Gov. Shapiro’s state funding initiative to support English classes for adults seeking better job opportunities in Reading.

The grant is part of a $70m plan to boost community programs statewide.

Today, Reading School District announced Leanne Eckenrode as School Administrator of the Year—an award from PASSWP that honors her leadership in supporting students, families, and staff.

The district lauded her dedication that strengthens its social services program.

Former NFL quarterback Chad Henne visited Green Valley Elementary School last week, where support classroom students staged a mock press conference to ask about his football career.

The visit, arranged by teacher Laura Mattiuz through Alvernia University’s Total Experience Learning program (Wilson alum), gave students communication practice.

The Rotary District 7430 Youth Exchange Program is installing a Peace Pole at Wyomissing Public Library (9 Reading Blvd) to promote peace; local exchange students will dedicate the pole in Spring 2026.

Mid Penn Bank donated $8,000 using state tax credits to help the YMCA of Reading & Berks fund scholarships and classroom resources at early learning centers in Reading and Richmond.

The donation gives more families access to quality childcare and supports staff development.

Monday night, Wilson beat Gov. Mifflin 54-35 in a BCIAA Division 1 girls basketball game; Laila Jones scored 17 points as the Bulldogs built an early lead.

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.

Norfolk Admirals vs. Reading Royals

4-5:30 p.m. — Santander Arena — Group tickets starting at $10 — Catch the thrilling action as the Admirals take on the Royals in this exciting hockey matchup.