Reading
Morning News
Friday, December 19th, 2025
Good morning, Reading. Here's your local news at a glance for Friday, the 19th of December.
COMMUNITY NEWS
- ➤ Ollie's has raised over $1.3 million for the Marine Toys for Tots program + the retailer’s effort will bring holiday joy to families in need this Christmas. WFMZ-TV
- ➤ Operation Holiday has helped families this holiday season by partnering with 21 agencies to deliver food and gifts, reaching 199 families in the tri-county area. The 35-year-old program, which began in Pottstown (with no overhead fees), keeps funds local and supports those facing hardships. Reading Eagle
- ➤ Navy Veteran Keith Fry (honored through a national program) received a refurbished 2019 Honda Accord today at Caliber Collision in Reading, as part of an initiative to gift free cars to veterans. WFMZ-TV
- ➤ Local jeweler and musician Justin Bortz is hosting a Christmas caroling event today at 6 p.m. at The Nest Collaborative, 629 Court Street in West Reading — continuing his long tradition of holiday festivities. Berks Weekly
- ➤ Fulton Forward Foundation donated $480,000 to 24 nonprofits that boost education, workforce development and housing, including Reading’s Connections Work (a program aiding individuals with past justice involvement). The grants, funded by Fulton Bank, support community resilience across five states. Reading Eagle
CULTURE NEWS
- ➤ State lawmakers approved $600K to support the GoggleWorks art park project — a plan to turn an underused space into a local cultural hub. WFMZ-TV
EDUCATION NEWS
- ➤ Green Valley Elementary hosted a lesson redesign assignment where retired NFL quarterback Chad Henne, a Wilson School District alum, visited to answer interview questions from students using the Total Experience Learning (TExpL) program at Alvernia University. The activity built confidence and communication skills among the learners. Alvernia University
GOVERNMENT NEWS
- ➤ State Sen. Judy Schwank announced funding for Reading’s skate park, which opened just over a year ago. The funds will upgrade facilities and strengthen the park’s role as a community hub. WFMZ-TV
HEALTH NEWS
- ➤ Reading Hospital was awarded Magnet designation for nursing excellence — a prestigious honor that reflects its high-quality patient care. This achievement affirms the hospital’s continued dedication to exceptional nursing for local patients. WFMZ-TV
SPORTS NEWS
- ➤ Residents at Highlands at Wyomissing gather for Sports Talk every Monday morning to chat about local, college, and professional sports (guest speakers have included local student-athletes) while building community ties. The meeting helps members share ideas and enjoy friendly debates. Reading Eagle
- ➤ Kutztown rallied from a halftime deficit to beat Wyomissing on Wednesday in a BCIAA girls basketball game, with Kaitlyn Houptley scoring 17 points to lead the comeback. Eastern York edged Schuylkill Valley 53-47 in a non-league contest. Reading Eagle
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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.
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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.
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Gary Owen Live Comedy Show
8-10 p.m. — Santander Arena — Tickets required — Experience two decades of sharp observational humor and fearless storytelling from comedian Gary Owen.
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Greensboro Gargoyles vs. Reading Royals Hockey Game
7-8:30 p.m. — Santander Arena — Watch on FloHockey — Cheer for your favorite team in this exciting hockey matchup.
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TODAY'S FOOD FOR THOUGHT
I am not afraid of storms, for I am learning how to sail my ship.
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Reveal the authorAbout Reading Morning News
Welcome to the Reading Morning News, your community newsletter that's anything but snooze-worthy, packed with positive, impactful local news + events across the Reading, Pennsylvania community. If you like the Reading Morning News, support us by subscribing to our email newsletter and sharing us with your friends and family in Reading.
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