Good morning, Reading.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

State lawmakers approved $600K to support the GoggleWorks art park project — a plan to turn an underused space into a local cultural hub.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.