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Berks Weekly
Reading Police arrest two suspects in July City Park homicide
The Reading Police Department Criminal Investigations Division has announced they have arrested two suspects in connection to the Homicide Investigation that occurred on July 10, 2024 in City Park. At approximately 9:30 pm officers responded to the area of City Park, 1100 block Washington St, for the report of a...
Berks Detectives arrest husband and wife in child pornography investigation
The Berks County District Attorney’s Office has charged 46-year-old Dennis D. Deiter Jr. and 34-year-old Elizabeth Deiter of Reading, PA with possession of child pornography and related offenses, officials announced this week. The Berks County Detectives Office initiated the criminal investigation after receiving a complaint from the National Center...
Berks Encore receives grant from Meals on Wheels America to address unmet need in Berks County
Berks Encore has announced that it has received $32,500 from Meals on Wheels America, the national leadership organization supporting community-based programs across the U.S. dedicated to addressing senior isolation and hunger, to help bridge gaps in the availability of essential nutrition services in Berks County, PA. Berks Encore was awarded...
Teen birth rates decrease in Berks with efforts of prevention initiative
Berks Teens has announced the latest data from the Pennsylvania Department of Health that shows a decrease in Teen Birth Rates for Berks County and the City of Reading. After a slight uptick in last year’s data, Berks Teens was encouraged by the improvement and their part in the effort. The numbers indicate that Berks County’s birth rate is, for the first time, better than that of the US data overall, with 13.2 births per 1,000 in 2022. (see graph below.)
Green Building Alliance Launches Resilient Communities Initiative in Reading
Green Building Alliance will launch its newest program, Resilient Communities, in Meadville and Reading, Pa., providing both communities with a range of services to help reduce energy demand, cut utility costs, and increase energy efficiency and resiliency for the municipal buildings, commercial facilities, and nonprofit and educational institutions within each region.
Splash Pad dedicated to Davy Craft Celebrated at Womelsdorf Swimming Pool
On Thursday, July 11, 2024, the Womelsdorf Swimming Pool was filled with joy and celebration as community members gathered for the dedication of a new Splash Pad in honor of Davy Craft, a courageous 12-year-old boy born with the rare Baraitser-Winter syndrome. The all-abilities splash pad project was made possible...
District Attorney warns Berks County residents of rise in phone scams
The Berks County District Attorney’s Detectives have noted a recent increase in a telephone scam that specifically targets Berks County residents. These scams typically involve a random telephone call notifying the potential victim that they failed to comply with a recent court subpoena or that they recently missed jury duty. In both scenarios, the caller often utilizes the name of an active member of the Berks County Sheriff’s Department and threatens legal action against the potential victim. In many instances, a telephone number assigned to the Berks County Sheriff’s Department is often spoofed to legitimize the call.
Behind the badge: Sgt. Michael Bezner’s journey balancing duty and family
When it comes to serving and protecting, Sgt. Michael Bezner of the Cumru Township Police Department brings a blend of passion, dedication, and a deep connection to his community. In a recent conversation, Sgt. Bezner shared with me his journey, experiences, and the impact his career has had on his life, offering a glimpse into the world of a committed first responder.
Berks Book Bonanza will hold Mini Sale this September
Berks Book Bonanza will once again open its doors to the public for the annual gently-used book sale scheduled to run Friday, September 20 through Sunday, September 22 at the County of Berks South Campus location, 400 E. Wyomissing Avenue in Mohnton. This will be the organization’s first sale since 2021 when it left its temporary residence at the Berkshire Mall.
Alvernia launches Drone Operations Academy through new partnership with DARTdrones
Alvernia University launches the Drone Operations Academy in partnership with DARTdrones’ Professional Wings Program. The academy is part of Alvernia’s new AccelerateAU Program, which delivers cutting-edge non-credit certificate programs designed to equip professionals with evolving skills for thriving in rapidly evolving industries. “We are thrilled to partner with...
ARL appoints Stacey Cole as Chief Development Officer
The Animal Rescue League of Berks County (ARL) announced the appointment of Stacey Cole as Chief Development Officer. Cole will spearhead the fundraising initiatives to support the life-saving work at the shelter. Cole comes to the ARL from the Reading Hospital Foundation where she served as the Director of Stewardship...
Construction, utility work: PennDOT upcoming roadwork July 22, 2024
PennDOT maintenance forces and private contractors have scheduled several construction projects in Berks County this week. To help our readers avoid travel delays, here are a few of the most notable projects. In Ruscombmanor Township, utility work will be conducted at the intersection of PA 12 and PA 73. This...
High bacteria levels force third closure of Dry Brooks Swim Beach at Blue Marsh Lake
For the third time in less than a month, swimming at the Dry Brooks Day Use Area of Blue Marsh Lake is restricted due to high bacteria levels. The swimming area was previously closed for the same reason from June 28th to July 2nd, and from 8th to July 13th.
Reading High School named 2024 U.S. Department of Education Green Ribbon School
On April 26, Reading High School was announced as a 2024 U.S. Department of Education Green Ribbon School. This honor acknowledges Reading High School’s commitment to sustainable practices, leadership in facilities, health, and environmental education. RHS is among 41 schools, 10 school districts, three postsecondary institutions, and one early...
Volunteers pack Maternal Health Boxes at Helping Harvest, closing 2024 Urban Agriculture Tour
Agriculture Secretary Russell Redding visited Helping Harvest in Spring Township Friday morning on the final day of the Shapiro Administration’s 2024 Urban Agriculture Tour. More than a dozen volunteers packed food boxes for Pennsylvanians in need as part of America250PA’s Pennsylvania Day celebration. “These are amazing places that...
Albright College appoints inaugural Dean of School of Business and Professional Studies
Veteran professor, Lisa Wilder, Ph.D., has been appointed dean of the School of Business and Professional Studies at Albright College. Wilder joined the Albright economics faculty in 2001 and has served as chair of the department of Business, Accounting and Economics for three terms. During her tenure as chair, the department launched new majors in sports management and entertainment management.
Humane Pennsylvania CEO Celebrates 20th Anniversary
Karel Minor, CEO of Humane Pennsylvania, celebrated his 20th year with the organization earlier this month, making him among the longest-tenured animal welfare leaders in Pennsylvania. Minor joined the Humane Society of Berks County in 2004. In 2014, he led the merger of the Humane Society of Berks County and...
USDA Secretary Vilsack and National Climate Advisor highlight Climate-Smart Agriculture in Reading
On Thursday, U.S. Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack and National Climate Advisor Ali Zaidi visited Pennsylvania to highlight the Biden-Harris Administration’s dedication to fostering an equitable agricultural future. This event, held during Pennsylvania’s Urban Ag Week, spotlighted the Administration’s efforts to promote climate-smart agriculture and conservation while creating opportunities for rural families, small businesses, and farmers.
Ryan Anderson named Reading Royals Assistant Coach
The Reading Royals, proud ECHL affiliate of the Philadelphia Flyers and Lehigh Valley Phantoms, announced Ryan Anderson as the team’s assistant coach. “We’re excited to bring Ryan on board as the Royals’ next assistant coach,” Team President David Farrar stated. “Under Coach Binkley’s leadership, I’m sure Ryan and our hockey operations staff will be well prepared for the 2024-25 season as we head into the next era of Royals hockey.”
City of Reading reminds public of sidewalk café, sales, and vendor regulations
The City of Reading is issuing a reminder to all residents and business owners about the regulations and ordinances regarding sidewalk cafes, sidewalk sales, and sidewalk vendors. This reminder comes in response to an increase in unpermitted open-flame cooking devices being used on sidewalks, which poses significant public safety risks.
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