Berks County Living April 2021

REGION’S PREMIER LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE

USE THEM TO SPRUCE UP YOUR SPACE

READING ON THE RISE

A Look at the City's Positive Growth

9 Places Prioritizing Sustainable Practices

April 2021

Meet Berks County's Nonprofits & 2021's People's Choice Leaders

Summer 2021

WORKSHOPS Maker Dates Mini-Makers!

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love your smile Dr. Andrea Smith is one of only 350 Maxillofacial Prosthodontists worldwide.

More than 100 area dentists, oral surgeons and other dental specialists trust her to handle their patients’ complex or cosmetic dental needs, from a single perfect tooth to state-of-the-art full mouth reconstruction.

Specializing in the restoration and replacement of teeth, including: » dental implant restorations » crowns » bridges » dentures » cosmetic dentistry » full-mouth implant prosthetics such as Teeth-in-One-Day or All-on-4.

Dr. Smith sees patients with a wide variety of dental concerns, such as: » broken or missing teeth » uncomfortable dentures » extensive tooth wear » dissatisfaction with the appearance of their smile

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APRIL 2021 | berkscountyliving.com

and work face to face in a live video session with us from practically anywhere via smartphone, tablet or laptop.

berkscountyliving.com | APRIL 2021

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contents APRIL 2021

28

54

features

22 A City in Bloom

We explore revitalization efforts in the City of Reading.

28 9 Spots in Berks Focused

on Sustainability

How local businesses and

organizations are being environmentally-friendly.

departments

8 AROUND TOWN • Berks Bits • Dieffenbach's has Rich History • In the Limelight with

Rachael Romig

• Staff Picks: Ring in Spring • Thoughts from the Chamber

21 FIVE THINGS

14 THIS MONTH What to Do & Where to Go

40

For Gardening Gurus

18 THE LOOK

Thrift Store Finds

40 LIVING IN STYLE

Decorating with Plants

54 DINING OUT

The Angry Anvil

plus: SPECIAL AD SECTIONS NONPROFIT SPOTLIGHT pg. 34 * PEOPLE'S CHOICE 2021 pg. 46 * NEWCOMER'S GUIDE 4

APRIL 2021 | berkscountyliving.com

VOLUME 22, NO. 4 | APRIL 2021

PRESIDENT/CEO Paul Prass VICE PRESIDENT/COO Lisa Prass PUBLISHER Robyn L. Jones EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Nikki M. Murry ART DIRECTOR Vanessa Goffredo CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Heather Baver Ali Bechtel Lily Oswald Donna Reed Kelly Tanger Marian Frances Wolbers CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS Tania Colamarino, Ama Photography Carrie Kizuka Photography Heidi Reuter John A. Secoges, Secoges Photographics

Mike Kuhn

Ed Kuhn

kuhncares.com Over 80 years of service to our community

JOHN C. DRISCOLL, SUPERVISOR

West Reading | 610.374.5440

Hamburg | 610.562.2955

Temple | 610.921.2225

ACCOUNT REPRESENTATIVES Elizabeth Beebe Denise Conlin Sue Ottenheimer Heather Pendergast-Baker Pam Taylor Sara Woodward

VISIT KUHNCARES.COM TO LEARN MORE

ACCOUNTING Donna Bachman Sarah Varano

T H E A R E A’ S L A R G E S T S E L E C T I O N O F

CIRCULATION MANAGER Andrea Karges COPY EDITOR Gigi Romano

ERIKA M. HAAS, SUPERVISOR

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how to contact us EDITORIAL: We want to hear from you – we really do! Send your compliments, gripes, story ideas and suggestions to: Editor, Berks County Living, GoggleWorks Center for the Arts, 201 Washington St., Suite 525, Reading, PA 19601 OR BCLEditor@ BerksCountyLiving.com. Written correspondence must be signed and include a mailing address, telephone number and an email address, when possible.

ADVERTISING: To request a media kit or receive other information about advertising, email RJones@BerksCountyLiving.com.

SUBSCRIPTIONS: For new subscriptions, changes of address or questions involving an existing subscription, call 800.896.1392, Mon-Fri, 9am-4:30pm, EST. High-quality reprints of articles that appear in Berks County Living are available by emailing RJones@BerksCountyLiving.com. Back issues are available subject to inventory.

FIND US ONLINE: To contact our staff, get advertising information, obtain writer and photographer guidelines, submit an event for the Calendar of Events, or to be included in the Dining Guide, visit our website: www.BerksCountyLiving.com.

POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Berks County Living, PO Box 2548, Orlando, FL 32802. Berks County Living (ISSN 1542-9334) is published monthly

by IDP Publications, 3245 Freemansburg Avenue, Easton, PA 18045-7118. Annual subscriptions are $19.95. (Canadian and foreign one year rate is $40, US funds only). Single copy price $3.95. Periodical postage paid at Easton, PA and additional mailing office. All contents © Berks County Living 2021. Nothing contained herein may be reproduced in whole or in part without the expressed written consent of the publisher. Publisher disclaims all responsibility for omissions or errors. All rights reserved. We welcome, but cannot be responsible for, unsolicited manuscripts, contributions, or photographs. Unsolicited materials cannot be returned unless accompanied by a self-addressed, stamped envelope. Printed in USA.

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LETTER FROM THE EDITOR

Keeping the Giving Going

wonders for boosting my mood. Need some gardening goodies? Flip to our 5 Things on page 21 for some suggestions from local retailers.

And for those looking to celebrate Earth Day on April 22 – even virtually – the Berks County Earth Day Committee has you covered. Get more info on page 8.

Best,

NIKKI M. MURRY Editor-in-Chief NMurry@BerksCountyLiving.com

Like it hot? Tell us about the spicy food or drink item that's your go-to in Berks. Email bcleditor@berkscountyliving.com and we may include it in our June issue.

ON THE COVER DISCOVER BERKS.

Follow us on Instagram as we share awesome eats, shopping finds, new businesses and more.

Just search BCLMag.

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APRIL 2021 | berkscountyliving.com

SPICK AND SPAN.

Up for some sprucing up at home? Check out our “Cleaning Tips” board on Pinterest. Search Berks County Living Magazine.

FACEBOOK FOLLOW.

Join the I’m Kinder Than That movement, featured on our Berks Bits page. Visit facebook.com/groups/ imkinderthanthat.

Ring in spring with some plants in your home. See our Living In Style feature on page 40 for some decorating tips from writer Lily Oswald.

NIKKI’S PHOTO BY TANIA COLAMARINO, AMA PHOTOGRAPHY | MAKEUP BY THERESA VIOLETTE

Getting through winter and moving into the spring season always brightens my spirits and makes me feel more hopeful, as does the theme of this month’s issue: giving. When people take the time to give to others, to animals, to our environment, those gifts just warm my heart.

Our April issue will showcase how Berks residents and business owners are doing just that. From companies putting sustainability practices front and center (page 28), all of those involved in brightening the future of the City of Reading with myriad revitalization efforts (page 22), to creating an entire kindness movement (page 8), there’s a lot of good going around.

To help ring in spring, we have some great advice in this month’s Living In Style from writer Lily Oswald on “Decorating with Plants.” I don’t know about you, but a bouquet of flowers or a lush fern hanging at home can do a world of

Staff Speaks Spring is sometimes synonymous with cleaning. What tidying task is your least favorite and why?

Hands down – the bathroom!

I wish it could be self-cleaning!

— Robyn L. Jones, publisher Dusting. No matter how often I do it, no one can tell. It’s a never-ending chore.

— Nikki M. Murry, editor Cleaning windows and doors and getting the patio furniture ready for the warmer weather. I don’t really like cleaning outside.

— Vanessa Goffredo, art director

Give Back...With A Twist!

Unique Pretzel Bakery is partnering with local charities in our community by providing resources to those in need, building sustainable relationships, and boosting employee morale. It is our job to invest in those organizations whose goals are closely aligned with ours. Where the primary focus is to better the communities and surrounding areas in which we live and work.

Giving with a Twist Partnership Program details: Partnering charities will receive a “Unique” promo code for online purchases % of all proceeds earned utilizing the code will be donated back to partnering organization In addition, supporters will receive online order.

To learn more about our program, email us at givingwithatwist@uniquepretzels.com.

Putting my winter clothes away and bringing my spring clothing out.

— Sara Woodward, account executive

MADE IN IN THE THE

Trying to get rid of the clothes that don’t fit or don’t get worn that often.

I always think…”maybe one day I will wear it again” and end up keeping more than I should.

— Heather Pendergast-Baker, account executive Cleaning the kids’ bathroom.

I don’t understand how the sink AND mirror can be so splattered with filth in only one week. It’s mindboggling. — Elizabeth Beebe, account executive

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berkscountyliving.com | APRIL 2021

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AROUND TOWN BERKS BITS

Celebrate Earth Day

Pandemic or not, Earth Day will be celebrated on April 22 this year, and the Berks County Earth Day Committee is prepared with a virtual celebration, with a tentative in-person event later, in June.

Here are more details…

Serving up Fresh, Fast Tacos

What started as a food truck is now a brick-and-mortar destination for tacos in West Reading. Taqueria Comálli serves up traditional street-style tacos and fan-favorites like the El Gallo: blue corn tortillas stuffed with authentic chorizo, whipped egg, fresh Pico de Gallo, queso fresco and fresh avocado slices. Customers can’t get enough of the eats served up in a fast-casual service environment. Says owner Erik Arizmendi, “We’re big advocates of sourcing locally as much as we possibly can. Our core philosophy centers on providing a super-fresh, high-quality taco.” During COVID-19 Taqueria Comálli upped its takeout game, growing the business substantially. Future plans include unveiling a small deck area this spring. Explains Arizmendi of the shift during the pandemic, “It taught us how to adapt and be much more resourceful.” Find the eatery at 701 Court St., online at comallitacos. com or view their menu at toasttab. com/taqueria-comalli.

— NIKKI M. MURRY

1.

A Virtual Nod.

Creating a Kindness Movement

Wendy Sullivan, a former special education teacher and Berks County resident, has turned kindness into a movement. She explains, “I always found that the most important lessons to teach were about kindness, compassion and taking responsibility for our actions. The phrase ‘I’m kinder than that,ʼ can help us keep all of those lessons in check.” Sullivan began using the mantra as a tool to teach her nieces and nephews the importance of being kind to one another (and everyone else, too). Along the way, she realized she needed to be reminded of what she was teaching as well. Now “I’m Kinder Than That” has a Facebook group with 14,000+ members, is on Instagram at @imkinderthanthat, and is online with a store at imkinderthanthat.org. During COVID-19, members began sewing masks for first responders, teachers and students. Children enrolled in an online Kindness Class for something fun to do outside of online school. Says Sullivan, “The movement has absolutely made me a better, kinder and more confident human being, and I think that is why others believe so strongly in it as well.” — NIKKI M. MURRY

Treat Yourself to Classic Desserts Delivered Contact-Free

While many businesses struggled to get footing when COVID-19 struck, Mark Bitler was inspired to create Door-to-Door Desserts.

A theatre student finishing his degree and faced with all of his future performances being cancelled, Bitler looked to his baking hobby and experience in the restaurant and hospitality industry.

Before long, he was whipping up some of his favorite baked goods and offering them for sale on social media. Now Door-to-Door Desserts is a full-fledged home bakery business delivering classic baked goods to your doorstep, contact-free, every Friday right here in Berks. Explains Bitler, “I’m a one-man-band as I like to say. I prep, bake, box and deliver everything. I like to think this is something customers can look forward to every week…finish your week with a dozen cookies or whoopie pies. That’s not a bad idea.”

Bitler specializes in the classics; think chocolate chip cookies. The crowd favorite, he says, seems to be sour cream sugar cookies with vanilla buttercream frosting. For the full menu and to order, visit door-to-door-desserts.com. — NIKKI M. MURRY 8

APRIL 2021 | berkscountyliving.com

This will feature local speakers on issues of community importance, including consumer and business recycling on an industrial scale, wildlife features about bats and birds, environmental justice, how communities are impacted by decisions outside their control and more. Also featured will be video tours of areas of interest in Berks.

2.

Library Link.

The Berks Library System is generating reading lists on environmental issues for all age groups, with planned online discussion groups about a sampling of the publications.

3.

In Person.

The free, in-person family friendly event is tentatively planned for June (subject to COVID-19 guidelines).

Featured will be interactive displays and tours of areas like the Schuylkill River, Mount Penn and Neversink. There will be hands-on demonstrations, artisan vendors, local cuisine, children’s activities, art installations, live music and more.

Stay tuned to the committee’s Facebook page @EarthDayBerks or visit online at earthdayberks.org.

Play ball!

That’s right. The Reading Fightin Phils are back for a 2021 season beginning May 4 at America’s Classic Ballpark, FirstEnergy Stadium in Reading. In their first series, they’ll take on the Erie SeaWolves. For more info and tickets, visit fightins.com.

AROUND TOWN possible. It is then stored in a holding tank and is land-applied to local crops. Since farming has always been a large part of Dieffenbach’s history, the company truly values local farmers and aims to give back to them as much as possible. Any trash that cannot be recycled is compacted and turned into energy. This helps to significantly limit the amount of waste added to landfills.

Today, Dieffenbach’s remains a regional brand favorite, while One Potato Two Potato and Uglies are their national brands making a difference and garnering an amazing reputation.

One Potato Two Potato is a healthy collection of gluten-free, fresh-sliced sweet potato and root vegetable chips. Uglies are “ugly” potatoes transformed into tasty kettle-cooked chips.

Potatoes that would normally be discarded due to minor cosmetic imperfections such as their size or color do not go to waste. Marketing Manager Morgan Santoro explains, “Dieffenbach’s really strategized and found a way to take ugly potatoes and make them into the product that they are today – a national growing brand that has received a lot of attention.” The Uglies brand not only minimizes food waste, but also helps to fight hunger. A portion of the brand’s profits goes to VivaKids, a local nonprofit fighting hunger in developing countries. VP of Sales & Marketing Dwight Zimmerman affirms, “The heart and soul of Uglies is reducing food waste and creating a market for these potatoes for the farmers and also fighting hunger.”

Giving Back

Dieffenbach’s has Rich History

BY KELLY TANGER | PHOTOS COURTESY OF DIEFFENBACH'S

S

ince 1964, Berks Countians have been satisfying their cravings for a salty snack with the crunchy delight of Dieffenbach’s kettle-cooked potato chips. And it all started in the kitchen of dairy farmer Mark Dieffenbach’s home in Womelsdorf. When Mark got started, his chips became a quick hit amongst family and friends. He moved to sell them at farmers markets first, seeing popularity rise quickly. Mark eventually ended his career in farming to pursue chip manufacturing full-time. Since, Dieffenbach’s has grown exponentially. Today it’s a five-kettle, third-generation, family-run business. Keeping the rich history alive, Dieffenbach’s continues to use the first kettle cooker Mark built in the 60s, the original mouthwatering recipe…all in the location where it all began – now home to the main plant and corporate offices. While Dieffenbachʼs satisfies our deepest chip cravings, the business also loves to give back to Berks in other ways.

Passion Poured Out

Dieffenbach’s is truly passionate about reducing waste, fighting hunger and giving back to the community. One way the company fulfills this passion is by recycling any and all possible byproducts, from cardboard to potato peels and everything in-between. Potato peels are donated to local farmers for their feed rations. Potato wash water is reused in the plant as much as is safely

One very special way Dieffenbach’s recently gave back was during the COVID-19 shutdown of restaurants in the spring of 2020. They didn’t waste any time figuring out what to do with their abundance of potatoes. The decision to have a potato giveaway at the Berkshire Mall in Wyomissing yielded a larger turnout than anticipated. As traffic wrapped all around the mall and lined up onto Route 12, Dieffenbach’s gave away 45,000 pounds of potatoes. Staying faithful to their family-owned business, their passion for giving back and dedicated to their tagline, Dieffenbach’s remains a Truly Enjoyable Snack Since 1964.

DID YOU KNOW?

Upcycling Uglies. The launch of the

Uglies brand of kettle chips in 2017 has allowed Dieffenbach’s to upcycle roughly 4.2 million pounds of potatoes.

Flavor fun. If you love variety, you’ll love the many flavors of kettle chips available from original to mesquite BBQ, sweet ghost pepper and so much more.

berkscountyliving.com | APRIL 2021

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AROUND TOWN IN THE LIMELIGHT to bring the whole community together to support women’s advancement and also to develop understanding for all cultural and orientation differences.

How did you get involved with the GRCA? I’ve always been in corporate event planning, sales and marketing locally. A couple of years ago I was looking to volunteer in the community and joined the Youth Summer Reading Committee with Women2Women.

I ended up kind of leading that group, and when a position as a Special Programs Coordinator with the GRCA opened up, I jumped on it. I loved the work they were doing with Women2Women, and as I learned more about what the GRCA did, I just couldn’t pass up that opportunity. During the pandemic I was offered the Senior Director position, which includes not only Women2Women – because I’ll never let that go! – but also incorporates the Family Business Alliance and all of the events of the GRCA as a whole.

So, it’s been quite a crazy year for you! Oh yes. Through COVID we had to be very experimental and creative about how to continue our events and fundraising while also putting money back into the community and our members’ local businesses. We’re doing the same this year until we can meet in person again.

IN THE LIMELIGHT WITH

Rachael Romig

Senior Director of Events & Special Programs with the Greater Reading Chamber Alliance

BY ALI BECHTEL | PHOTO BY JOHN A. SECOGES, SECOGES PHOTOGRAPHICS

For Rachael Romig, what began as a volunteer opportunity quickly grew into a passion for helping community and business leaders across the county. Rachael and her team at the Greater Reading Chamber Alliance were instrumental in providing education, networking and growth opportunities for Berks businesses throughout the pandemic, and now she’s turned her attention to new and innovative ways to maintain that creative momentum into the future.

Can you tell me a little bit about the Greater Reading Chamber Alliance?

The GRCA is a member organization with the mission to help our community’s businesses. We’re a little different than a chamber of commerce because we’ve brought together three different entities to create what we are, including economic development and bringing new business to the area, education and funding to expand existing businesses and our chamber piece, which aims to help the business community through membership.

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APRIL 2021 | berkscountyliving.com

What is some of the special programming that you oversee?

Our two special programs – Women2Women and the Family Business Alliance – were created to support large segments of our community. Family businesses make up a big part of our economy in Berks, so we wanted to focus attention on the particular needs they have. That’s what we’re doing with Women2Women as well. It’s a professional organization for women, but our real aim is

What are your goals as we transition back to “normal” life? We’ve developed virtual and in-person opportunities to cover all of our bases, so we’re totally ready for whatever this year throws at us! We really want to get more member businesses involved, so we’re thinking outside the box and finding new ways to showcase them. We really want to be creative and develop experiences for our members, not just the normal chamber stuff.

For now, we’re saying there are no rules. Our only goal is to keep people connected until we can physically be together.

DID YOU KNOW?

Everyone’s Welcome. The GRCA

has added even more non-member opportunities this year, so all community businesses and leaders can get involved.

Learn more at greaterreading.org.

Be an Ally. For the 10th anniversary of

the Women2Women program, the GRCA has developed a full year of programming aimed at being an ally across genders, cultures and orientations. Get involved at berkswomen2women.com.

STAFF PICKS

Spring

AROUND TOWN

RING IN

There’s nothing like sitting outside for a meal at Plein Air – a cool retreat right in downtown Reading – and enjoying the delicious food there. Every menu item is a winner. The drinks are delicious, too. — Elizabeth Beebe, account executive

We're ready for it: the green grass, yellow daffodils, singing birds and warmer temps. Bring on spring!

Here's how our staff is looking forward to celebrating a new season.

Spring is synonymous with flowers.

When I want to brighten up my surroundings, I get a bouquet of local fresh flowers from The Rustic Bunch.

One of my most favorite gifts ever was a four-month floral share from The Rustic Bunch, compliments of my team. I loved it! — Robyn L. Jones,

If I had to sum up spring with a smell, it would be fresh flowers. Tulips, daffodils and gardenias are my favorites. ­ — Vanessa Goffredo, art director The first place I want to go enjoy the outdoors in Berks once the weather starts to warm up is Blue Marsh area for a hike around the lake.

— Heather PendergastBaker, account executive

Spring, for me, means it’s time to start taking some of my reading outdoors. I love looking through the extensive book selection at Firefly Bookstore in Kutztown for my next find. — Nikki M. Murry, editor

Spring, for me, means it’s time to head out to yard sales, flea markets and farmers markets again. The Boscov’s Fairgrounds Farmers Market is my favorite for fresh produce that’s in season. — Sara Woodward, account executive berkscountyliving.com | APRIL 2021

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AROUND TOWN THOUGHTS FROM THE CHAMBER ALLIANCE

GIVING = HAPPINESS

BY AUDREY KRUPIAK, Digital Marketing Coordinator, GRCA, 606 Court St., Reading,

W

inston S. Churchill once said, “We make a living by what we get. We make a life by what we give.” A study performed by Utah State University’s College of Science Development Director Patrick Svedin showed that giving makes us happier, especially when one freely chooses to give. Giving to others — whether it is our time, money, skills or advice — will help us live a happier life.

The Greater Reading Chamber Alliance has many member nonprofit organizations worthy of our time, talent and money. I wanted to highlight a few that may make you feel compelled to give, and in return, live a happier life.

Bethany Children’s Home

Bethany Children’s Home provides residential care for school-aged children who are unable to live in a traditional family setting. Located in Womelsdorf, they have been providing a place of nurture,

protection and supportive care in Berks County since 1863.

How to give: Volunteer or donate! According to its website, there are many ways to donate money or items to provide children a true “home” atmosphere. There is also a multitude of ways to give your time and talent from helping with events, to gardening, to aiding campus maintenance projects and more. bethanyhome.org

Animal Rescue League of Berks County

The Animal Rescue League of Berks County cares for nearly 5,000 animals each year. It helps them find a second chance new home or to reunite them with their owners. Oftentimes its work goes beyond the shelter walls by offering surrender prevention programs, low-cost veterinary services and clinics as well as educational events throughout Berks County.

How to give: Adopt, foster, donate or volunteer!

Adopt a pet and provide an animal a forever home or foster a pet and provide a temporary loving home.

You can choose to give money or supplies to help provide medical care, food and a safe place to sleep. Volunteer your time and talent to provide the pets daily exercise and enrichment. It makes me happy just thinking about giving an hour of my time to get fresh air and to walk a dog. berksarl.org

Salvation Army

The Salvation Army of Reading offers help to the elderly, the youth, the disabled and the homeless by providing training, mentoring and through programing. The organization’s goal has remained steadfast: they strive to serve the most people, meet the most needs and do the most good within the community.

How to give: Volunteer or donate! The Salvation Army is always looking for Community Volunteers to donate their time and talents. There are opportunities to volunteer one time, on a regular basis or as a group. The Salvation Army can turn your skills and what you are passionate about into ways you can help your community. You can also give to the Salvation Army by donating goods or funds. When you donate, you are offering hope and change for Reading. pa.salvationarmy.org/reading No matter where you choose to give your time, money, skills or advice, I hope it helps you find a happier life.  UPCOMING EVENT

Women2Women Conference + Expo: The 2nd Annual Digital Summit, Thursday, April 22, 9am to 1pm. Visit greaterreading.org for more information and tickets.

10th ANNUAL

CONFERENCE + EXPO: DIGITAL SUMMIT Thursday, April 22 9 a.m. - 1 p.m.

Register now for our 10th Annual Women2Women Conference + Expo!

This year’s Digital Summit, a half-day experience, will take place in our own 3D world where attendees can enjoy our ATHENA Ceremony, Keynote, Breakouts, and Vendor/Sponsor Expo.

LEARN MORE & REGISTER: www.berkswomen2women.com 12

APRIL 2021 | berkscountyliving.com

GIFTS FROM THE HEART

AROUND TOWN

In the spirit of giving, we asked our freelance staff to share: What is one of the greatest gifts you’ve ever given or have received? Here’s what they said…

“A scrapbook that [my husband] Chris’ family gave me at our engagement party that is filled with photos and stories of him as a kid. It also included stories and pictures of him and his dad, who passed away when he was in high school. I am always asking ‘what was Chris like when he was younger?’ so it was the perfect gift.” – Heidi Reuter,

freelance photographer

“One of the greatest gifts that I’ve ever given, and continue to give, is a selfless amount of time, compassion and undivided attention to others, especially those who are in need or are grieving for any reason.” – Kelly Tanger,

freelance writer

“I think the best gift that I have ever received is my dog, Momo. My brother gifted her to my family as a token of appreciation for all of the photoshoots I have gifted to his family over the years. She has brought us so much joy over the past 5 years. Stress too, but mostly joy! I have received so many wonderful gifts throughout my lifetime, but I would have to say that Momo earns the top spot.”

– Carrie Kizuka, freelance

photographer

“Having three incredible daughters — they're simply the greatest gifts of my life. But years ago, my eldest brother decided he'd pay all the adoption and medical fees to gift me with the sweetest brindle-colored Basset-coonhound puppy you ever saw. So adorable; his ears hit the floor.

I had been afraid of dogs before that, but raising Benny was a cure. What a love. He was a great companion for many years. As for gifting, well, my husband is impossible to buy for. If he wants something, he just gets it himself.

Very frustrating. Instead of quitting though, I got creative.

One May for his birthday, I gave him a B&B getaway at a historic inn at Gettysburg for a weekend. I set the whole thing up. He loved the inn, walks at the battlefield, the food and all the history.” – Marian Frances Wolbers, freelance writer

“My best friend and her husband gave me a trip to Europe for my 50th birthday.

That was a pretty awesome gift!”

– Susan L. Angstadt, freelance photographer

“Meaningful gifts don't have to be anything fancy.

About 10 years ago, I received a copy of the New Yorker magazine.

Along with it was a letter. This marked the beginning of an amazing friendship, along with a weekly exchange of letters, magazines and original writing.” – Heather Baver, freelance writer

“I think one of the greatest gifts you can give someone is a compliment. Someone I previously worked with complimented me recently and that conversation started me on the path to landing my dream job (And of course, there's always Starbucks gift cards, because coffee!),” – Ali Bechtel,

freelance writer

My bestreceived and given gifts were...

“My best-received gifts were my first-born, my daughter, on my 27th birthday, and my middle child, a son, on Valentine’s Day (which had previously been my leastfavorite holiday). My third child narrowly missed Dad’s birthday. Next best was an Olivetti laptop in 1988 — the first computer that was actually all mine. My dad let

me use his Commodore 64 before that. The best gift I ever gave was a teddy bear to my then-British husband when we were dating. He had told me he’d never received any stuffed toys before, so I did it more as a cute and funny thing, but he was so touched that he brought it over with him when he moved from England to marry me.”

– Sue Wilson, freelance writer

berkscountyliving.com | APRIL 2021

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THIS MONTH

April what to do & where to go COMPILED BY NIKKI M. MURRY

April 22

10Th ANNUAL WOMEN2WOMEN CONFERENCE + EXPO: DIGITAL SUMMIT 9am-1pm, Virtual Event.

Join virtually and walk from Expo boothto-booth, meet in the Ballroom for the ATHENA Ceremony, choose your Breakout Conference Room, order lunch from the Lunch Kiosk and have it delivered to you, and network “face-to-face” on the rooftop, the beach and even enjoy a boat ride. Women2Women is taking “virtual event” to a new level so you can connect with other women around the region (and beyond) both personally and professionally who are on the path to empowerment and growth! GRCA Members: $50, NotYet Members: $70. For more info contact Rachael Romig at 610.898.7775 or visit berkswomen2women.com.

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APRIL 2021 | berkscountyliving.com

ASK THE DOC

ART EXHIBITIONS AND GALLERIES Through April 18

VOICES & VISIONS: ARTISTS OF HAITI

New Arts Program, Kutztown.

Featuring the works of 48 artists commemorating the 11th anniversary of the Haiti’s devastating earthquake. Masks and social distancing required. Hours: Fri-Sun, 11am-3pm and seven days a week by appointment. For more info call 610.683.6440 or visit newartsprogram.org.

Through May 16

STORYLAND: A TRIP THROUGH CHILDHOOD FAVORITES Reading Public Museum, Reading.

Storyland transforms seven beloved and awardwinning picture books – The Tale of Peter Rabbit

by Beatrix Potter; The Snowy Day by Ezra Jack Keats; Where’s Spot? by Eric Hill; If You Give a Mouse a Cookie by Laura Numeroff; Chicka Chicka Boom Boom by Bill Martin Jr. and John Archambault; Abuela by Arthur Dorros; and Tuesday

by David Wiesner into three-dimensional play and bi-lingual (English and Spanish) learning environments that highlight the six pre-reading skills defined by the Public Library Association and Association for Library Service to Children, a division of the American Library Association: disposition to read, print awareness, letter knowledge, sound awareness, vocabulary and narrative skills and comprehension. For more info visit readingpublicmuseum.org.

Through May 23

BILLIE JEAN KING: CHAMPION. ACTIVIST. LEGEND.

Left untreated, glaucoma is one of the leading causes of blindness and the leading cause of preventable blindness. That’s why regular eye exams are so important.

Fortunately, some of the best glaucoma specialists in the region are right here at Eye Consultants of Pennsylvania.

When it’s glaucoma, count on the glaucoma specialists.

Right here in Wyomissing.

Eye Consultants of Pennsylvania is the leading eye care practice in the region, with experienced specialists in cataract, glaucoma, LASIK, pediatric eye care, retinal care and more. And our glaucoma specialists — Dr. Mehul Nagarsheth, Dr. Abhishek Nemani and Dr. Michael Smith — are Board-Certified and Fellowship-Trained. That’s experience you can trust. When it’s glaucoma, don’t take chances. Insist on Eye Consultants of Pennsylvania. Learn more at EyeConsultantsOfPA.com.

New patients are always welcome. Call 610-378-1344.

EyeConsultantsOfPA.com

1 Granite Point Drive, Wyomissing

Reading Public Museum, Reading.

More than 75 photographs will chronicle Billie Jean King’s extraordinary life, including her journey toward achieving 39 Grand Slam titles and the world No. 1 ranking in women’s tennis.

An inspirational champion on and off the court, King’s lifelong advocacy for equality and social justice is visually demonstrated in this first ever exhibition about her life. For more info visit readingpublicmuseum.org.

Through May 25

COURTING STYLE: WOMEN’S TENNIS FASHION Reading Public Museum, Reading.

With an emphasis on outfits worn by the great iconic players, such as Evonne Goolagong, Martina Navratilova, Chris Evert, Billie Jean King, Tracy Austin, Maria Sharapova, Venus and Serena

Our glaucoma specialists: Abhishek K. Nemani, MD; Mehul H. Nagarsheth, MD; Michael Smith, MD

WYOMISSING | POTTSVILLE | POTTSTOWN | LEBANON | BLANDON

berkscountyliving.com | APRIL 2021

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THIS MONTH | April Williams, the exhibition explores developments in tennis fashion design as well as fabrications, trends, major championships, identity and the players themselves. For more info visit readingpublicmuseum.org.

Register now for our upcoming Spring Retreats: April 26-May 2 5-Day Directed Retreat May 10-18 7-Day Directed Retreat May 24-28 Icon Writing Retreat Thursdays, May 20 & 27, June 3 & 10 Grief and Grace: A Pentecost Journey with Christine Marie Eberle

Private retreats available.

Learn more at JesuitCenter.org.

Melinda Leonowitz, Registrar mleonowitz@jesuitcenter.org 610-670-3642 Join us before our closing August 2021.

BENEFITS April 22-24

31ST FRIEND, INC. COMMUNITY SERVICES VIRTUAL BENEFIT AUCTION

Opens April 22, 5pm; closes April 24, 5pm.

Bid on collectibles, entertainment, art, gift cards, home & garden items, jewelry and much more, all to benefit Friend, Inc. Community Services. For the link and more info call 610.683.7790 or visit friendinc.org.

HISTORY April 30

WALPURGISNACHT: “MAY EVE” A CROSS-QUARTER DAY 7-8:30pm, Virtual Event via Zoom.

Join Charlie Adams, Dave Kline and Patrick Dunmoyer for a twilight virtual program starting at 7:13pm and uncover how this folkloric tradition migrated from the dark mountains of Europe to the hills of Pennsylvania. For more info visit berkshistory.org/event/walspurgisnacht-may-evea-cross-quarter-day.

WHAT ELSE April 22

IT'S TRIVIAL! HAWK MOUNTAIN TRIVIA NIGHT 7pm, Virtual Event via Zoom.

Test your knowledge on a variety of Sanctuary trivia topics, including fun facts, Hawk Mountain history and the people, places and things that make the Sanctuary special. Prizes awarded to the top three. Registration closes two hours prior to the start of the event. Members: $5, Non-members: $10. For more info visit hawkmountain.org/ events/its-trivial-hms-trivia-night.

April 22-25

BERKS COUNTY EARTH DAY 2021: 51ST ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION Virtual Event via Zoom.

Visit our store on Rt. 222 just south of Shillington Store Hours: Mon.–Sat. 8:30am–5:30pm 2267 Lancaster Pike, Shillington || 610.775.0335 Call 800.777.3314 for a free catalog

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APRIL 2021 | berkscountyliving.com

The virtual event will feature local speakers on issues of importance including information for consumer and business recycling on an industrial scale; wildlife features about bats, birds and other wild creatures; Environmental Justice, exploring

how communities are impacted by decisions outside their control made against their best interests; and video tours of areas of interest to the community. The Berks Library System is generating reading lists on the environment for all age groups, with planned online discussion groups about some of these books. For more info visit earthdayberks.org or visit Berks County Earth Day Committee on Facebook.

May 2

BOW WOW EXPRESS

1pm, 2pm, 3pm & 4pm departures, WK&S Railroad, Kempton.

Our Family Serving Your Family Since 1935 leibenspergerfuneralhomes.com Donna M. Leibensperger Parr

Derek M.D. Leibensperger

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Funeral Director Supervisor

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223 Peach St., Leesport - 610.926.2737

Get this Growth Story! - ROI 19X in 24 Months!

WANT YOUR EVENT LISTED IN THIS MONTH?

Submit your event on our website at BerksCountyLiving.com.

A lead time of two months prior to your event is recommended for inclusion in the print calendar. Events are included as space is available. Virtual events welcomed!

Yurconic Agency CEO John Yurconic Jr. and COO Colleen Driscoll

www.compasspt.com/client-stories/yurconic

65 S. 4th St., Hamburg - 610.562.7823

GROWING

Take a special 40-minute ride with your furry friends! A photographer on-site will take photos and friends from Hillside SPCA will be on hand, too. Those who bring their furry friends will also receive a coupon for a 50-cent hot dog and all dogs will receive a complimentary biscuit. Hillside SPCA is always grateful for your donations. Cash or actual products may be donated at this event. Please note: There will be a coach reserved for those unable to ride with furry friends. All dogs must be on a leash. For more info visit kemptontrain.com.

HOW DOES A FAMILY BUSINESS SCALE FOR GROWTH? They hire the Family Business Experts.

3 Covered Bridge Rd., Oley • 610-689-5818 BridgeInnPleasantville.com Hours: Sun & Mon 11-10pm; Tues 4-10pm; Hours: Wed & Thurs 11-11pm; Fri & Sat 11-1am

610.336.0514

Take your family business to the next level with Compass Point.

Compass Point Consulting LLC

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berkscountyliving.com | APRIL 2021

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THE LOOK

Thrift Store

FINDS

BY HEATHER BAVER

PHOTOS BY CARRIE KIZUKA PHOTOGRAPHY

NOTHING’S NEW CONSIGNMENT SHOP 11 Funston Avenue, Reading 610.775.1286

facebook.com/nothingsnewclothing Sorrelli Earrings, $15 Grey Cape by Lou & Grey, $20 Land’s End White Turtleneck, $6 Sacred Threads Skirt, $15 J. Jill Belt, $6 Rialto Boots, $25

Some things are definitely worth a second look. Consignment stores offer a diverse assortment of clothing and accessories.

Items cost a fraction of the retail price; some are even brand new. Check out these fabulous looks from two Berks consignment shops, and get ready to make your own style discoveries.

Bohemian Chic.

Dynamic neutrals and a spectacular pattern combine to create a striking ensemble. This layered look is perfect for walking in the sunshine. A bold patchwork-printed skirt takes center stage with its stunning array of colors and patterns. A soft white turtleneck makes a great companion to the skirt and keeps your neck warm on cool spring days. Top it off with a charcoal gray cape for added warmth and an artful drape to your look. The cape’s rolled neckline and contrasting color are the ideal counterpoint to the turtleneck. Its sides touch the elbow, giving the wearer freedom of movement. A black belt with a silver buckle accentuates the waist and ties the look together.

Black Rialto boots complement the black belt and the heels add just the right amount of height. A side-zip makes them easy to take on and off, and the ruching detail above the ankle adds cool texture to your ensemble. For a finishing touch, Sorrelli earrings make a dazzling accessory.

The dangling earrings twinkle and catch the light while drawing attention to the wearer’s face.

A black belt with a silver buckle accentuates the waist and ties the look together.

A bold patchworkprinted skirt takes center stage with its stunning array of colors and patterns.

Model: Stephanie Hill, Nothing's New owner, of Lower Alsace Township

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FROM THE HEART CONSIGNMENT SHOP

4600 Penn Avenue, Sinking Spring Women’s Boutique, 484.509.4441

fromtheheartconsignment.com

The wired collar can be styled up or down, and it’s an awesome way to showcase a necklace.

Damee Jacket, new with tags, $72.99

(retail: $144.95)

Windhorse Harem Pants, new with tags,

$24.99 (retail: $49.95)

Chaps Wedge Thong Sandal, $15.99 Water Buffalo Hinged Bangle Bracelet w/Blue Stone, new with tags, $14.99

(retail: $43.99)

Capiz Shell Drop Earrings, $9.99 Kate Spade Crossbody/Clutch with 3D Parrot, $57.99 Sorrelli Necklace - Swarovski Crystal in blue/purple, $119.99

Patterned Professional.

Classic and black, these pants are the ultimate blend of chic and comfort, with a billowy silhouette to match.

Model: MaryJo Kreutzer of Adamstown.

The jacket’s ¾-length sleeves are also ideal for styling with a bracelet.

Go for a breezy, work-ready look that’s perfect for warm spring days.

This ensemble is all about comfort and flair. The Damee jacket features a vibrant abstract pattern that adds color and drama. The wired collar can be styled up or down, and it’s an awesome way to showcase a necklace. Made of Swarovski Crystals, this Sorrelli necklace sparkles with blue and purple hues. The jacket’s bell sleeves complement the swing and sway of the harem pants. Classic and black, these pants are the ultimate blend of chic and comfort, with a billowy silhouette to match.

The jacket’s ¾-length sleeves are also ideal for styling with a bracelet.

This water buffalo hinged bangle features a vivid blue stone in the center. Continue the blue theme with these eye-catching blue drop earrings. Add wedge sandals to provide a boost of style. The sleek t-strap design shows off your toes and your favorite shade of polish.

Finish the look with this designer bag by Kate Spade. The radiant cherry-red is enhanced with a 3D parrot for a fun, whimsical look.

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1 Visit your favorite consignment stores frequently. “The items in our shop change every

day. You might not find something every time you shop, so plan to stop by often.” — Stephanie Hill, owner, Nothing’s New Consignment Shop

2 Take your time and be ready to explore.

“Shoppers should allow themselves enough time to thoroughly search each rack for the BEST buys.

Have patience because there's always a great deal waiting to be found.” — Katherine Scheese, owner, From the Heart Consignment Shop

Consignment Shopping tips

3 Get expert advice. If you have a specific item on your wish list, ask the store staff and take advantage of their knowledge.

6 Look for the original tags. This is an

amazing deal because “they were never worn and should be in excellent condition.”

— Katherine Scheese

7 Make some alterations. If you see a piece you love, think about getting it tailored so you can enjoy the ultimate custom fit. The money saved by buying consignment should give room in your budget.

8 Get ready to experiment. Katherine Scheese notes that consignment shoppers should try out new looks and experience the wonderful surprise of discovering “how great they look!”

4 Think outside the sizes. Katherine Scheese advises shoppers to look at sizes that are smaller and larger than their regular size. “Items shrink, or are oversized, which is why people consign or donate them.”

9 “If you see something you like....don't hesitate. Like the sign in the shop states...

5 Enjoy the savings. The money you save gives you flexibility in your budget. “Clothes sold at Nothing's New cost less than a quarter of the retail price.” — Stephanie Hill

10 Pat yourself on the back. Consignment shopping is an earth-friendly, sustainable way to add to your wardrobe. Help the planet and rock an amazing look at the same time.

ʻShould have bought it when I saw it!’ There are many customers who can claim that statement!” — Stephanie Hill

t h o e r ' M s Day! y p p a H

20% OFF Gift Cards LLSalons.com

On Sale in salons and online April 1 - May 9. Valid from Mother's Day May 9, 2021 20

APRIL 2021 | berkscountyliving.com

FIVE THINGS

Win It!

FIVE ITEMS FOR

Gardening Enthusiasts B Y H E AT H E R BAV E R

Spring is here, and we’re ready to spend as much time outdoors as we can.

Gardening is a great way to exercise while communing with nature. It can help reduce stress, and it’s fun for the whole family. Get inspired by these five picks found at local retailers and design your own gardening masterpiece.

1 Think Pink.

Grace your space with breathtaking pink flowers and pink-tinged stems and leaves. Molly Schroeder Viburnums grow to 8-feet wide by 5-feet high, perfect for adding a sense of enclosure near a patio.

These viburnums are low maintenance, so you can spend more time relaxing and admiring this uncommon plant. Molly Schroeder Viburnum, $28, Ryeland Gardens, 37 Weiser Lane, Womelsdorf, 610.589.4917. ryelandgardens.com

2 Dig In.

Plant bulbs and banish weeds with this multipurpose digging and cutting tool. Used for centuries in Japan, the stainless steel blade is sharp on both sides with a semi-sharp point on the end. Inscribed measurements help gauge soil depth. It's so handy! The name “Hori hori” reflects the sound of digging in the soil. Hori Hori Knife, $39.99, Riverview Gardens & Gifts, 3049 Pricetown Rd., Temple, 610.929.5049. riverviewtree.com, gardensandgifts.com

3 Contain Your Enthusiasm.

Take your outdoor landscaping to the next level with gardening containers. Enjoy the flexibility and portability that containers offer. Enhance your front door or patio with this stunning arrangement of beautiful blooms. A grouping of canna lilies, geraniums, heliotrope and petunias adds brilliant color and a heavenly fragrance to your yard.

Custom Container Planter, $159.99, Spayd's Outdoor Environments, 3225 Pricetown Rd., Fleetwood, 610.929.2026. spayds.com

4 Trumpets of Joy.

5 Plant a Seed.

Get ready for an amazing summer with these showstoppers. Golden Brugmansia loves spending time in the bright sun. With its 12-inchwide dazzling orange flowers, you can decorate your outdoor space with bursts of vibrant color. Bask in the glow of these trumpet-shaped blooms and create a tropical paradise in your own backyard. Golden Brugmansia, $24.95 for a 1-gallon pot, Sycamore Springs, 1182 Cross Keys Rd., Reading, 610.914.4983. underthesycamore.com

Craft a garden that’s bursting with colorful blossoms and delicious eats. These flower and vegetable seed packets let you experience the excitement of watching growing process unfold right before your eyes.

With 150+ varieties of vegetable plants, you’ll be able to grow your family’s favorites.

Flower and Vegetable 4-Packs, $1.09 each, Esbenshade’s Garden Centers, 721 Park Rd., Fleetwood, 610.944.3000.

1749 Bowmansville Rd., Mohnton, 717.445.6055. esbenshades.com

Win It! Visit berkscountyliving.com this month to enter to win the Hori Hori Knife from Riverview Nursery & Garden Center. Good luck! berkscountyliving.com | APRIL 2021

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A

CITY in BLOOM READING'S REVITALIZATION

BY DONNA RE E D

When Mayor Eddie Moran considers the arrival of this spring in the City of Reading, he’s thinking about a bunch of bright new beginnings.

And beyond the usual signs of the season, the mayor is also seeing the rebirth, really the revitalization, of Reading, particularly the downtown.

“It has been an exciting time watching Reading bloom so beautifully,” he says. “The transformation we are witnessing in infrastructure – how the traditional merges with the contemporary – and how new investors value our city’s history is simply inspiring.”

The mayor cites key downtown projects.

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On the Rise, Finally

“Without a doubt, CollegeTowne is a tremendous asset to our Downtown Plus Area and my administration is fully engaged to make sure that other capital projects come to fruition,” Moran says.

A New Downtown Dawning

“Without a doubt, CollegeTowne is a tremendous asset to our Downtown Plus Area, and my administration is fully engaged to make sure that other capital projects come to fruition,” Moran says.

CollegeTowne is Alvernia University’s new downtown campus at Fourth and Penn streets that will headquarter its School of Engineering and the O’Pake Institute. The first floor will host retail tenants while student housing will occupy upper floors.

Among the other projects are the expected revelation for the development/redevelopment of the Reading Eagle Company building in the 300 block of Penn Street, the conversion of the Madison Building at Fourth and Washington to market-rate apartments, the conversion of the Berkshire Building at Fifth and Washington to graduate foreign student housing for Alvernia, the conversion (and planned addition to) the Medical Arts Building in the 200 block of N. Fifth Street to apartments or condominiums, and the construction of new townhouses at Third and Washington streets, just east of GoggleWorks Center for the Arts.

Also pending is a new effort by the city to find an innovative developer for its long-languishing buildings on the northwest corner of Fifth and Penn.

Berks County Commissioner Michael Rivera, with a professional background in banking and

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APRIL 2021 | berkscountyliving.com

real estate, agrees that developers, investors and homeowners are seeing city opportunities.

Rivera cites statistics shared by the ReadingBerks Association of Realtors.

“Property values in the city have been going up in the past two to three years,” he says, “and available inventory remains low.”

Indeed, in mid-January, only 80 single-family homes and 22 buildings with two to four units were listed.

Johnathan Savant, R-BAR director of government and community affairs, reports that Reading home prices are compatible for buyers in the median countywide income range.

“This past December, homes in Reading were on the market for a median nine days from the time they were listed before going under contract,” he says. “It is not uncommon to receive multiple offers in the first 24 hours of listing.”

They also note impressive city property statistics: median list price for a city property was $64,000 in January 2019 and climbed to $90,000 by December 2020, a 40.5 percent increase (Berks County median property values rose 16.4 percent in that time). Median sales price was even higher: $65,500 in January 2019 rising to $83,000 in December 2020, a 26.7 percent increase (Berks County median sales prices rose 4 percent in the same period).

Jaime Perez, a Reading High School graduate and now an agent with Keller Williams Platinum Realty, credits the Our City Reading initiative begun nearly two decades ago by late department store magnate and Reading native Albert Boscov as an early catalyst in improving home values.

“I worked with Mr. Boscov and learned a lot,” he says. Perez is heartened by the efforts of Neighborhood Housing Services, Habitat for Humanity, county and city funding mechanisms, and private developers. The effort, which includes a deconversion of multi-units into singlefamily homes, has the consequence of better property values all around.

Perez says more aggressive marketing that will rebrand the city and attract more folks from outside the area to see the values and quality of life in Greater Reading is needed.

Rivera attributes the appeal of city properties to affordability compared to major metro areas like Philadelphia, New York and D.C., and its proximity to them, the unique historic architecture, the natural surrounds of parkland (Mount Penn Preserve, the Schuylkill River trails and the county parks system) as well as nearby farmland, and the rise in remote working that began even before the pandemic.

The tradition of Hispanic family members wanting to live near each other has brought thousands of new residents in the past 20 years. Indeed, by Census Bureau estimates, some 60-plus percent of Reading’s residents are Hispanic.

Median list price for a city property was $64,000 in January 2019 and climbed to $90,000 by December 2020, a 40.5 percent increase (Berks County median property values rose 16.4 percent in that time). Median sales price was even higher: $65,500 in January 2019 rising to $83,000 in December 2020, a 26.7 percent increase (Berks County median sales prices rose 4 percent in the same period).

A Hispanic Haven

Centro Hispano, led by Michael Toledo, also a Reading High alumnus, has played a big role in advocating for the burgeoning Hispanic population.

During Census 2020, Centro Hispano assisted more than 600 families it serves with completing their census.

“This will lead to over $20 million in federal investment into our city over the next 10 years,” says Toledo.

Rivera and Toledo note the strong work ethic of city residents working in large businesses like Deka near Topton, the new $80-million Carbonite plastics recycling facility in Muhlenberg, and warehousing in northern Berks and utilizing BARTA public transport routes. The Schmidt Center for Technology at Reading Area Community College provides training for workers changing careers. The three Career and Technology Centers offer high schoolers courses for a jump start in the skilled trades workforce.

Activity in the City Center

The Moran Administration’s developing Downtown Plus Plan will be yet another catalyst in center city’s rise.

Johanny Cepeda-Freytiz, owner of Mi Casa Su Casa in the 300 block of Penn Street, was drawn from New York City to Reading in 2007 by family who settled here.

Her eatery has become a hub of the arts and community activism. Most importantly, her diverse customer base reflects the vitality of the urban core.

“Throughout the years, I have met and served a variety of people,” she says. “I have seen a growth of culturally diverse businesses.

Despite economic losses and adversity, I have seen our community come together and create

some of the most memorable events and activities downtown. Downtown Reading has become home to the arts, music, food and culture.”

Post-pandemic, Cepeda-Freytiz sees arts events returning, including First Fridays, Top of the Block, the Hip-Hop Summit, the Berks Salsa Fest, the RIZE dance on the street event, the Hispanic Festival and so many more.

Kevin Murphy, president of the Berks County Community Foundation, which has financially supported many downtown events including Downtown Alive and Fire + Ice, says events are critical to bring visitors back to the downtown.

“The Community Foundation has spent many years funding activities that have brought more people and interest into that urban core,” he says.

“That strategy has been working and we’re committed to remaining focused on it.”

City Council President Jeff Waltman has an upbeat view, too.

“As we begin to exit Act 47 (financially distressed city status), we are entering an era with a renewed downtown focus that will transform the downtown away from the trials and tribulations of the past 40 years,” he says.

Resources and a Wonder

Reading’s residents and its beauty are its greatest resources, Waltman believes.

“In a city full of wonderful diverse people and amazing children we may simply be one of the wealthiest cities in the country. The time has come to underscore our diversity, history and breathtaking natural beauty to move the city and the region forward.

“As we build that vision together with our Downtown Plus strategic plan let’s remember there are no limitations on what we can achieve, how much success we can have, and how strong

Kevin Murphy, president of the Berks County Community Foundation, which has financially supported many downtown events including Downtown Alive and Fire + Ice, says events are critical to bring visitors back to the downtown.

our quality of life can be. I am very excited about a ‘new’ Reading. One that we will all be very proud of,” says Waltman.

Two veteran members of the city’s state legislative delegation agree.

“We’ve seen a lot of positive change in Reading over the last 10 years,” says state Senator Judy Schwank. “Some of that change is very visible and has a big impact, like the Penn Street projects including the DoubleTree Hotel, Santander Arena and now Alvernia University’s CollegeTowne.

“Also significant, especially to city residents, are some of the new shopping centers popping up in neighborhoods. Big or small, it’s exciting to see developers and investors recognizing the potential in Reading,” says Schwank.

State Representative Mark Rozzi, a former businessman who represents portions of Reading, offers this thought.

“I have noticed in my time what appears to be an increase in home ownership, which has spurred community revitalization as well as serious increases in home values,” he says. “I see more pride in neighborhoods, better care being taken to homes and cleaner streets.”

Their comments are particularly pertinent to new energy in the city’s south and southwest.

Community activists like Tony Veloz and Barrio Alegria, often working in concert with the main branch of the Reading Public Library, have created a new vitality in and identity for “South of Penn” with a variety of cultural events, especially dance and other performing arts. They also do regular clean-ups extending down Fifth Street to Laurel where the Reading Firefighters Museum, based in the old Liberty Fire House, pays homage to the city’s 250-plus-year-old firefighting heritage.

The 18th Wonder initiative has been a gamechanger for the 18th Ward and Millmont communities just across the Bingaman Street Bridge. The Masano auto dealerships, long-time business anchors along Lancaster Avenue, continue there with newly renovated facilities and aesthetics that have beautified city-owned medians. John Masano, a second-generation leader, has spearheaded a huge vehicle sales complex adjacent to Reading Body and Berks Catholic High School, in which he has provided community meeting space.

Establishments like Mimmo’s and Oakbrook Brewing Company complement private clubs like the popular Victor Emmanuel II. A new home for small businesses – as well as a muchneeded neighborhood grocery store – is the completely renovated former A.W. Golden building on Lancaster Avenue. Shuman Development Corp., also responsible for successfully renovating a number of downtown and northcentral city buildings, accomplished that project.

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Home, since 1967, to the Reading Phillies (now Fightins), the stadium has been named “America’s Classic Ballpark” and is the catalyst for the city’s Baseballtown moniker.

Good Sports and Faith

A spiritual symbol to many is the city’s century-old landmark, the Pagoda atop Mount Penn.

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APRIL 2021 | berkscountyliving.com

Sports, like the arts, play a huge role in providing opportunities for commerce and community.

FirstEnergy Stadium, built 70-plus years ago, has been lovingly maintained and improved to meet changing needs with a capacity of 9,000. Home, since 1967, to the Reading Phillies (now Fightins), the stadium has been named “America’s Classic Ballpark” and is the catalyst for the city’s Baseballtown moniker. Nearby Mike’s Tavern in Riverside gained national theatric fame in 2016 as the setting for Sweat, Lynn Nottage’s Pulitzer Prize-winning Broadway play.

Another city stalwart has been its religious institutions.

“The faith community has been woven into the life of Reading since its founding,” says Michael Kaucher, director of development for RBCC/Transformative Solutions Network.

“This community, now representing roughly 100 congregations, continually invests in the lives of their neighbors. Many times, it's not

just a meal served, but a place where neighbors can gather and be connected. Beyond individual congregations, a number of nonprofit organizations like Hope Rescue Mission and The Salvation Army are operated by the faith community.”

A spiritual symbol to many is the city’s century-old landmark, the Pagoda atop Mount Penn. Though closed to the public due to COVID19, the amount of activities, including inside rentals will increase when restrictions lift.

Councilwoman Marcia Goodman-Hinnershitz, whose district includes the building, also serves as the Foundation for the Reading Pagoda chair.

“Climbing to the top of the Pagoda has always been a favorite activity for more than 30,000 visitors every year,” she says. “The Foundation is creating a virtual Pagoda walk-through to provide insights into the structure. The Pagoda is nestled in a mountain scape with trails offering first-class hiking and biking opportunities. In the upcoming summer months, outdoor events including concerts will be offered on the Pagoda lawn.”

Getting Educated

Another icon is Reading High School, long affectionately nicknamed the Castle on the Hill.

For too long, the Reading School District, significantly populated with children who live in poverty and in unstable home settings, dealt with high drop-out rates, student transiency and fiscal instability. In the past few years, largely due to the innovative leadership of superintendent Dr. Khalid N. Mumin — recognized as one of the top school superintendents in America — RSD is on the upswing.

The drop-out rate has plunged, and more students than ever are excelling on secondary levels preparing for professional careers and skilled trades. The 2017 Reading High state championship basketball team with star player Lonnie Walker IV, now with the San Antonio Spurs, injected a new and palpable sense of pride throughout the city and in RHS alumni. Like Wilson High graduates and NFL players John Gilmore and Chad Henne who created the GilmoreHenne Community Fund, Walker has also become a philanthropist with his Lonnie Walker IV Foundation aiding city youth.

Wesley S. Butler was a Walker teammate and RHS basketball team captain for three years. A 2019 RHS graduate, he’s a Kutztown University sophomore majoring in communications and is a basketball standout. His face graces many KU billboards highlighting outstanding local students.

At 20, he is following his dad, Wynton Butler, RSD director of Social Services, and his mom, Magisterial District Justice Tonya Butler, into public service. One of the youngest candidates to seek a City Council seat, he seeks to spread his pride and love in Reading.

He says the 2017 celebratory parade down N. 13th Street feting the state championship was one of the most memorable days of his life. He also believes it marks the time when the hometown pride switch was turned on, the start of a changed and positive image for the city.

“We were really a team,” he says. “My team was a part of accomplishing a goal – the state championship that had never been done before. We took care of the winning, but it wouldn’t have happened without the city folks in the role of supporting us.

“That day, that parade, was the best thing I’ve seen in my life,” he says. “My hope is that we take that energy and create a clean and safer environment where all the community is involved.”

The mayor agrees with his assessment.

“Community participation is vital,” says Moran. “We could use more community leaders who can attract more investors and, as a result, contribute to the city’s growth.”  Editor’s note: Donna Reed is a member of the City

CELEBRATING 75 YEARS Our years of success are the legacy that drives us.

506 Morgantown Road, Reading 610.373.2001 burkeyconstruction.com

For more than 20 years, we have been a resource for those with back pain, neck pain, scoliosis and other spine problems.

In addition, we do NOT require an MRI to be scheduled and seen.

Specialty Spine Care.

Without the Wait.

We are committed to providing prompt patient services. Back pain with or without a pinched nerve can cause severe and excruciating pain –mandating prompt medical care. The local emergency room is seldom the proper place for a patient to be evaluated. We prioritize these urgent cases within 48-72 hours.

of Reading City Council and also a board member of the Foundation for the Reading Pagoda.

berkscountyliving.com | APRIL 2021

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Making

SUSTAINABILITY a Priority

BY ALI BE CHTE L

There are several ways a business can become more sustainable – reducing waste, using sustainably sourced materials, even adopting cleaner shipping processes – and Berks business owners are trying it all.

By focusing on minimizing their impacts to the environment and to society, these local businesses are maximizing their effect on our local community and beyond.

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Partnering with EcoDrive to plant trees in an effort to offset the impacts of shipping sorrelli.com orders.

SORRELLI

The female-founded and led team at Kutztown-based Sorrelli is dedicated to ensuring not only the longevity of their handcrafted and ethically sourced jewelry, but also preserving the planet for generations to come. Because they run their own factory and make every piece by hand, they can repair and refurbish every item they sell, keeping their jewelry in the hands of their customers and out of landfills. It also means they can ensure no materials go to waste. From recycling and re-using packing materials to storing and cleaning wastewater on-site, Sorrelli has prioritized leaving a small footprint.

“We have such an abundance of waste in our society, from single-use plastics to textile waste to paper, the list goes on and on,” says CEO Lily Oswald.

“My goal is to work with innovators who can help create processes to recycle these waste products into new materials.” She’s starting with creating new jewelry components from recycled glass and plastic, and she isn’t stopping there. Lily and her team are innovating a new upcycling program that allows customers to send in their old Sorrelli pieces to be used in new and creative ways and have partnered with EcoDrive to plant trees in an effort to offset the impacts of shipping sorrelli.com orders.

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best known for their more than 100 varieties of heirloom tomatoes and fresh and fiery peppers

ECKERTON HILL FARM

Owner Tim Stark started his first tomato seedlings on the rooftop of a Brooklyn brownstone more than 20 years ago and has since expanded into 70 hillside acres in the fertile Oley Valley. While he is best known for his more than 100 varieties of heirloom tomatoes and fresh and fiery peppers, he grows more than 200 varieties of fruits and vegetables. Tim says, “We grow everything from A-to-Z, artichokes to zucchini, and everything in between,” and his crew strives to pick, pack and sell everything within a day or two for some of the freshest produce around.

But what really sets Eckerton Hill apart is Stark’s focus on optimizing the nutrient composition of his soil. He has made the centuries-old process of cover cropping integral to his business, allowing him to farm without the use of fertilizer or chemicals.

He composts and combines hundreds of bushels of rye, barley and clover each season to rotate into his fields to improve the soil between crops. Eckerton Hill produce is featured at the Union Square Greenmarket and in some of the poshest restaurants in New York City, but is also available right here at the Covered Bridge Farm Stand and Oley Valley Organics as well as at the Stark Juice kitchen in Kutztown and online at eckertonhillfarm.com.

Stark Juice

Julie Stark’s raw cold-pressed juices deliciously embody her vision that all people deserve organic, chemical-free, healthy ingredients. Her products are made with nothing but the juice of local, organic and ethically sourced fruits and vegetables.

Stark Juice is free of all pasteurization, processing, preservatives, sweeteners, fillers and water to ensure the best absorption of the nutrients and natural compounds found in every bottle.

Julie sources most of her ingredients right here in the Oley Valley. She works with her brother Tim Stark, owner of Eckerton Hill Farm, to plan her produce needs. Once she has squeezed every ounce of goodness from the fruits and vegetables, she uses the dry pulp to create more tasty products like veggie beet burgers and chips or returns it to the farm where it can feed livestock or be used as compost to grow more produce.

“It’s a beautiful circle of sustainability,” Stark says. “We continue to slowly and sustainability evolve the business in an economic and planet-friendly way.” Stark Juices can be found at the juice kitchen in Kutztown, as well as the West Reading and Boscovʼs Fairgrounds Farmers Markets and at stark-juice.com.

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Paisley offers refill discounts and encourages customers to bring back their containers to purchase their favorite products by the ounce.

PAISLEY & COMPANY Paisley & Company’s luxurious small batch bath, body and home products not only smell great, but are also handcrafted using simple processes and clean, local ingredients. Owner Joanne Lapic chooses the least-processed options for every ingredient in her more than 60 different products and blends them without the use of harmful processes or chemicals.

But for Paisley & Company, sustainability extends far beyond the products being sold.

“I think for most retailers sustainability is measured by the products they choose to carry, but since we are a manufacturer, our environmental decisions extend to other areas too, most importantly packaging,” Lapic says. “I can choose organic grapeseed oil, but the bottle I put it in will be either glass or plastic, and almost certainly made in China.” To offset that footprint, Paisley offers refill discounts and encourages customers to bring back their containers to purchase their favorite products by the ounce. They also use recycled paper bags and shipping materials and keep recyclability and fuel waste in mind when preparing shipments for delivery. paisleyandcompany.com

Green Mountain

Timber Frames

A rise in demand for reclaimed materials is good for the earth and for business, at least for Green Mountain Timber Frames, based in Reading. The custom carpentry company has been designing and crafting timber homes and frame barns since 1990 and has recently started to see an increase in demand for projects using reclaimed timber.

While reclaimed projects only account for a small amount of Green Mountain’s business right now due to higher labor costs for dismantling and refinishing the wood, they are seeing a surge in interest in recycled trusses, ceiling beams, accent walls and furniture. Owner Bruce March says, “we recently purchased Heart Pine timber that was recycled from an old Case Tractor factory in Wisconsin. The building was originally constructed in 1901 and the timbers were 200 to 300 years old at the time of original construction.” One thing is for sure, the owners of these custom projects are not only supporting sustainability, they’re buying a piece of history. gmtimberframe.com

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Since its inception, the Cairn Collective has planted more than 5,000 trees and is committed to donating $1 from every sale in the future.

Forever Cairn

Jewelry & Gifts

Tricia Williams opened Forever Cairn to share her passion for saving the planet with others.

She wanted to start a business that would allow her to embrace her creative side, but also to give back. When she discovered One Tree Planted, a nonprofit organization that plants a tree for every dollar donated, her vision came together. Since its inception, the Cairn Collective has planted more than 5,000 trees and is committed to donating $1 from every sale in the future.

Environmentally savvy shoppers can browse bracelets and earrings made by hand in the Forever Cairn Studio as well as jewelry and other fair-trade gifts from women artisans in India through Williams’ partnership with World Finds Fair Trade. She has also teamed up with local artist George Kunder, who crafts wood and resin earrings from materials sourced in local yard waste sites. Forever Cairn also ships all orders using 100 percent compostable materials. This dynamic collective of artists and environmental activism is what makes Tricia’s mission of building a nature-focused community possible. forevercairn.com PHOTO BY JESSY MOYER

B&H Organic Produce

B&H Organics’ Erica Lavdanski believes that her customers should be able to support local food while still preserving the pristine Lancaster County farmland where it’s grown. B&H has taken their passion for preservation one step further by adhering to the stringent regulations that are required to be a certified organic farm. “For us being organic isn’t a sales strategy; I don’t charge more for my products than anyone else does,” Erica explains. “We choose to be certified organic because we think there needs to be a place in the food system where chemicals aren’t allowed.”

And that space in the system is growing exponentially. The requirements for being certified organic include using certified seed, soil and fertilizers that were not always so widely available. In fact, when Erica started working in organic farming in 2012, the options were quite limited. Today there is an entire industry that has been built because the early farmers were forced to create one. The certification also gives B&H Organics more control over the treatments used on their lands and a louder lobbying voice in Washington to help extend the sustainability of their farm beyond its borders for cleaner lands and a safer food system. bhorganicproduce.com

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Radius was the first oral care company to offer certified organic toothpaste and floss.

Radius

For decades, Kutztown-based toothbrush company Radius has been selling toothbrushes designed to leave your mouth – and the world – a little cleaner.

Their focus is on selling products that people love, but in a way that leaves a small footprint. Every Radius toothbrush is recyclable and is made using the most sustainable products possible. And just in case one of their toothbrushes does end up in a landfill, their EcoPure® technology ensures it will biodegrade.

Radius’ molding, bristling, filling and packaging machines utilize the most energy-efficient technology available, using up to 70 percent less energy than traditional hydraulic powered machines. And each mold is designed to eliminate waste so that 99 percent of the plastic in their toothbrushes is used effectively.

But their sustainability efforts don’t stop at production. Radius was also the first oral care company to offer certified organic toothpaste and floss.

That means users can naturally eliminate bacteria, remove plaque, freshen breath and whiten teeth without any of the chemicals, sulfates, GMOs or gluten found in your run-of-the-mill toothpaste.

You can find Radius toothbrushes, toothpaste and floss at Wegmans and Whole Foods locally, or online at Amazon and at madebyradius.com.

OPPORTUNITY HOUSE Opened in July of 2015, OppShop is a retail thrift store that is part of Opportunity House’s Reuse & Recycle Program.

Visit the shop for gently used treasures ranging from furniture and housewares to books and clothes. Sales help to provide short- and long-term benefits to Opportunity House clients, the agency and the community. The nonprofit generates additional revenue that is reinvested into the mission of the organization. Leftover

clothing is baled and sold by the pound and books are sold both in store and on Amazon and eBay. Another OppShop goal is to not have unnecessary items end up in a landfill. Those interested in donating items can schedule a pickup or drop off at the back of the store at 3045 N. 5th Street Highway, Muhlenberg Township, or in one of the drop-off bins.

OppShop hours are: 10am-7pm, TuesdaySaturday. opphouse.org/oppshop 

berkscountyliving.com | APRIL 2021

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NONPROFIT SPOTLIGHT

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

YMCA of Reading and Berks County

Nonprofits Strengthen Communities

631 Washington St., Reading 610.378.4700 | ymcarbc.org

After a long year of focusing on the negatives, the YMCA of Reading and Berks County wants to give kids a summer of endless possibilities! At our day camp locations throughout Berks and Lancaster counties, we combine outdoor fun with immersive STEAM experiences to keep growing minds and bodies active during the summer months. Visit our website for more information!

Nonprofit organizations are essential to communities and the residents within them. Their aim is to help – be it by offering financial assistance, making professional referrals, or providing services that meet basic living needs like housing and utility assistance for those struggling. Berks County is home to a wealth of nonprofits that address a wide array of issues, including helping youth, women and families, working to fulfill food, medical and mental health needs, finding pets homes and assisting seniors at home, encouraging healthy living and advocating for social justice and so much more. Learn more about them on the pages that follow.

John Paul II Center 1092 Welsh Rd., Shillington 610.777.0605 | johnpauliicenter.org

Join John Paul II Center on June 18 for its 11th Annual Legacy Gala at a new location — FirstEnergy Stadium. The event will celebrate the resilience of JPII students, adults and staff who have overcome so much this past year. The night will include food, silent and live auctions and fireworks! Event proceeds benefit therapies and student scholarships.

Clare of Assisi House 325 S. 12th St., Reading 484.869.5483 | clareofassisihouse.com

Clare of Assisi House is a transitional home for non-violent women being released from prison.

Clare House assists women who have been victims of domestic violence and substance abuse. We offer residents self-empowerment tools such as self-help programs, parenting classes, workforce training, family reunification assistance and opportunities to pursue their education. Case management and counseling services are an intergal part of the program.

Kula Kamala

Foundation & Yoga Ashram

17 Basket Rd., Alsace 484.509.5073 | kulakamalafoundation.org Connection, compassion and contentment are necessary for a healthy, happy life. At Kula Kamala Foundation & Yoga Ashram, we support our community by teaching a path that empowers that experience. We offer public classes, professional training and services in yoga, yoga therapy, meditation and holistic practices. Our mission is to empower each individual to know and embrace their best life through yoga.

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Safe Berks

255 Chestnut St., Reading 844.789.SAFE | safeberks.org Safe Berks provides a safe haven and support to victims of domestic violence and sexual assault. Our advocacy and education programs increase awareness of oppression and promote the prevention of interpersonal violence. Our services include a Safe House, 24-hour Hotline and Text Line, counseling, legal services, medical advocacy and educational programs. Our services are free, confidential and available in English and Spanish 24/7/365.

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

TH ER ,

TOG E

3000 Penn Avenue, West Lawn 610.376.1576 | institute-of-arts.org

Established in 1934 to create access to quality arts instruction, the Yocum Institute for Arts Education offers extensive classes in visual arts, theater, dance, martial arts and music. In addition, the Yocum Institute provides outreach programming and residencies, multi-arts and performance summer camps, an arts-based kindergarten and pre-school, family-friendly productions and a gallery space featuring emerging and local artists.

TA MM Y

Berks Arts

PO Box 854, Reading, PA 19603 610.898.1930 | berksarts.org info@berksarts.org

Literacy Council of Reading-Berks

35 S. Dwight St., West Lawn 610.670.9960 | lcrb.org For 53 years, the Literacy Council has offered classes, tutoring and off-site workforce development training. We are dedicated to helping individuals through English as a Second Language, high school equivalency and citizenship classes; English Forward training; tutoring; and the Community Health Worker Training Institute in partnership with Penn State Health St. Joseph and the Eastcentral PA Health Education Center.

The arts play a critical role in engaging diverse communities, changing perceptions, creating safe environments and strengthening economic opportunities. As a leader in the local arts community, not only does Berks Arts provide programs and services to our community, but we also support the region’s artists and arts organizations through grants, advocacy, event promotion presentation and marketing. Please consider supporting the Art Relief Campaign for local artists and organizations at berksarts.org.

Breast Cancer Support Services

529 Reading Avenue, Ste. C, West Reading 610.478.1447 | bcssberks.org

Berks County Community Foundation 237 Court St., Reading | 610.685.2223 info@bccf.org | bccf.org

Berks County Community Foundation provides a straightforward, powerful and highly personal approach to charitable giving. Our philosophy is simple: Improve our community by making philanthropy easy.

We offer: • Streamlined giving services for donors that make charitable giving easy, effective and enjoyable.

• Responsible and attentive management of charitable funds.

• Knowledge of our community and the nonprofit sector.

A breast cancer diagnosis can dramatically change one’s life; that is when Breast Cancer Support Services of Berks County steps in. We have provided support groups, information and emotional support to diagnosed women, survivors, friends, family and caregivers of those with breast cancer since 1994. Our programs and events remind our community that they are not alone in their journey.

THE BCSS FITTING ROOM

Berks County Area Agency on Aging 633 Court St., 8th Floor County Services Center, Reading 610.478.6500 | berksaging.org

Berks County Area Agency on Aging is the gateway to aging programs and supports. We offer information on community resources, health and wellness programs, senior community centers, in-home services and access to legal assistance, care management, caregiver support services, Ombudsman (advocates for consumers in longterm care facilities) and elder abuse protection. berkscountyliving.com | APRIL 2021

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NONPROFIT SPOTLIGHT

W

LOVELY FUTUR ILD A E•

E OV GR DE UP

Yocum Institute for Arts Education

BU AN C E

NONPROFIT SPOTLIGHT

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

Berks Counseling Center 645 Penn St., 2nd Floor, Reading 610.373.4281 | berkscounselingcenter.org

Berks Counseling Center, an Integrated Community Wellness Center and Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinic, offers specialized, evidence-based care for pregnant and postpartum women with Opioid or Stimulant Use Disorder.

Services include Medication Assisted Treatment, individual and group counseling, case management, peer support and health and wellness services. Help is available for mother and baby.

Paid for with Pennsylvania taxpayer dollars.

Prospectus Berco

CASA of Berks County

840 William Lane, Reading 610.372.4637 | prospectusberco.org

845 Park Rd., Ste. 307, Reading 610.301.8634 | casaberks.org

Would you like to make a difference in your community? You can, simply by supporting the 27th Annual Golf Tournament to benefit Prospectus Berco. We’re looking for golfers and sponsors to help us advance opportunities for adults with developmental and intellectual disabilities. By providing meaningful supports we offer greater independence with dignity.

Learn more at prospectusberco.org or email jpenchard@prospectusberco.org.

Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) of Berks County recruits, trains and supports citizen volunteers to be advocates for children who are victims of abuse and/or neglect. Volunteers LEARN about the child and their family life by ENGAGING during regular visits and SPEAK UP for the child’s best interest in court.

There are 400+ children in Berks Dependency Court needing an advocate monthly. For more info on volunteering visit casaberks.org.

Berks Encore

40 N. 9th St., Reading 610.374.3195 | berksencore.org

COVID forced us to make changes to many of the ways we work for seniors in our community: masks to deliver Meals on Wheels, takeout lunches, Zoom exercise classes and phone counseling for Medicare. However, by collaborating with business partners and other nonprofits, our commitment to help older adults in Berks County live well is stronger than ever!

Opportunity House 430 N. Second St., Reading 610.374.4696 | opphouse.org

Be a hero to the needy children, families and single men and women we serve — safely. Donate gently used linens and clothing. Drop off a meal for our men, women and children. Help grow fresh food for them in our community garden. To donate or to volunteer, go to opphouse.org and click “Ways to Help.”

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The Center for Animal Life-Saving Reading, Berks County

Humane Pennsylvania 1801 N. 11th St., Reading humanepa.org

Humane Pennsylvania is building the best community anywhere to be an animal. The new Center for Animal Life-Saving in Reading, PA, will do just that. It will be a life-saving resource to those in need in our community. This facility will give pet caretakers affordable access to services that allow pets to remain in their loving homes. Learn more at humanepa.org.

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

NONPROFIT SPOTLIGHT

Alvarium Personal Care, LLC 1501 Mineral Spring Rd., Reading 610.375.9696 | alvariumpc.org

Alvarium Personal Care, LLC was formed in April 2019 and in May 2019 took over the operation of the 48-bed facility, formerly known as The Hawthorne, in Reading. At The Hawthorne Home, we offer personal care services including 24-hour supervision, assistance with ADLs, medication administration, meal preparation and light housekeeping in a nurturing, caring, home-like environment. We are dedicated to supporting and accommodating people’s unique needs.

American Cancer Society

Friend, Inc.

cancer.org | 1.800.227.2345

658 Noble St., Kutztown 610.683.7790 | friendinc.org

RELAY FOR LIFE OF BERKS COUNTY 2021* Berks Regional – September 18th Boyertown – September 25th Daniel Boone – May 22nd Kutztown – TBD Western Berks – September 18th * More information on websites

Friend, Inc. Community Services is so much more than food for empty tables. Especially during this pandemic, our emergency financial assistance, case management services and drive-up pantry bring comfort and hope to your neighbors. When our clients understand their options, brighter futures are not only possible, they can happen! We are a helping hand when hope is needed.

Relay For Life is an opportunity for communities to honor cancer survivors, remember loved ones lost, and fight back against a disease that has already taken too much. Be THERE!

Dayspring Homes

PO Box 158, Shillington 610.376.5648 | dayspringhomes.org

New Journey Community Outreach 138 S. 6th St., Reading 610.375.2662 | njcoinc.org

New Journey Community Outreach provides hunger relief to those in need locally. Last year, we served 40,000 lunches and distributed groceries to 6,141 families. Throughout this COVID-19 pandemic, our operations continue without interruption. Thank you to our frontline staff and volunteers and to our donors, along with the United Way of Berks County for its unyielding support. Contact Sue Krall, Executive Director at skrall@njcoinc.org for more info.

Dayspring Homes is proud of the opportunities our participants have to realize their God-given potential, while giving back to the community.

Each one of our participants has their own individual needs and dreams. It is remarkable to watch them make someone’s day by being present and kind. Not only do they brighten our day, but they make a tremendous difference in the lives of others. Always choose kindness. For more information visit dayspringhomes.org where you will find employment and volunteer opportunities.

United Way of Berks County P.O. Box 702, Reading 610.685.4550 | uwberks.org

UNITED we change lives every day by working together for the issues that matter to all of us — quality early care and learning, adult literacy, providing youth development activities, food security, senior services, preventing homelessness and more. With your support, more than 80+ programs, initiatives and grants help more than 150,000 Berks Countians each year. Learn more and volunteer by visiting uwberks.org.

berkscountyliving.com | APRIL 2021

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NONPROFIT SPOTLIGHT

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

Vision Resource Center of Berks County 2020 Hampden Blvd., Reading 610.375.8407 | vrcberks.org

For more than 90 years we have called Berks County home. The Vision Resource Center of Berks County offers support groups, educational and socialization programs, counseling sessions, transportation services and vision screenings, as well as a workshop program.

Whatever challenges you or your loved one may face with vision loss or blindness, we are here for you, your family and your caregivers.

Habitat for Humanity of Berks County

Threshold Rehabilitation Services

5370 Allentown Pike, Temple 610.921.1315 | habitatberks.org

1000 Lancaster Avenue, Reading 610.777.7691 | trsinc.org

The Habitat for Humanity of Berks ReStore, 5370 Allentown Pike, Temple, is a treasuretrove of hard-to-find new and donated items. All the profits from the ReStore support the work of Habitat Berks and help to strengthen our community through home ownership. You can donate your gently used items by going to the website, habitatberks.org to schedule a pick-up.

While the pandemic has caused many changes, one thing remains constant, the caring dedication of Threshold Staff ESSENTIAL FRONT LINE WORKERS! “Promoting Dignity and Personal Achievement in the Community”

Children's Alopecia Project

906 Penn Avenue, Wyomissing 610.468.1011 | childrensalopeciaproject.org

The LGBT Center of Greater Reading

Join us as we continue helping all kids living with Alopecia, an incurable hair loss disease.

The Children’s Alopecia Project (CAP) changes the emphasis from growing hair to growing confidence, building self-esteem, providing support and raising awareness. We focus on letting our kids know that we are all different; that’s why we are all normal and perfect originals! Donate and change the life of a CAP Kid.

484.513.3170 lgbtcenterofreading.com mdech@lgbtcenterofreaidng.com

The Children's Home of Reading

The LGBT Center of Greater Reading provides support services, community outreach and events for the LGBTQ+ community and our allies. We offer support groups, free counseling services, professional development and cultural competency programs, resources, referrals, advocacy, a food pantry and clothing and toiletries closet. We are committed to breaking barriers to access and providing essential services to those in need.

The Children’s Home of Reading has responded to the needs of children and families in crisis in Berks and surrounding communities for the past 135 years. Our 15 comprehensive, educational, behavioral and mental health trauma-informed programs focus on partnering with more than 1,100 children and their families in crisis. Services help them enhance capacities, strength and resilience to achieve wellness and balance as they heal from crisis and meet life’s challenges.

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1010 Centre Avenue, Reading 610.478.8266 | buildingkidslives.org

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

NONPROFIT SPOTLIGHT

Girls on the Run of Berks County 484.332.6132 | gotrberks.org info@gotrberks.org

We are excited to continue celebrating the girls of Berks and Schuylkill counties this spring, helping them activate and unleash their limitless potential. Your support helps us inspire girls, giving them a place to grow, connect and SHINE! Register for our Virtual 5K, May 28-31: bit.ly/gotr2021 and find out how YOU can inspire girls to be joyful, healthy and confident!

Grey Muzzle Manor 1164 Blattadahl Rd., Mohrsville 610.655.5271 | stablemoments.com

Grey Muzzle Manor provides counseling services; sanctuary and hospice care for senior animals; and community outreach. Stable Moments, a mentorship program for kids in foster care and kids adopted from foster care, is a new program we offer utilizing equineassisted learning. Grey Muzzle Manor is currently enrolling participants, recruiting mentors and sponsorships for this program. We’re here for you at the place that love built.

World Affairs Council of Greater Reading

PO Box 6301, Reading 610.375.7880 | wacreading.org

The World Affairs Council of Greater Reading is the leading educational organization promoting understanding and enlightenment on global issues. We provide recognized speakers who address timely topics at monthly Zoom meetings, moderate discussion groups through Great Decisions, sponsor the National Student Academic Challenge for local high school teams, offer discussions through the Sam Dewald Book Club, and provide scholarships to Berks County high school seniors.

Safeguards Foster Care 220 N. 5th St., Reading

The SafeGuards program is a local Foster Care Agency that has provided programming for preteens and adolescents since 2000. The program is family-centered, strength-based and communitydriven. We believe all children have the inalienable right to grow up safe, healthy and fulfilled in families that love and nurture them. Those interested in fostering for the program can reach out to us via: facebook.com/safeguardsfc, familyrecruitment@rsots.com or 610.372.1484.

Bethany Children’s Home 1863 Bethany Rd., Womelsdorf 610.589.4501 | bethanyhome.org

Bethany Children’s Home provides a safe place of nurture, protection and care to aid residents in their healing. We recently were accredited by The Joint Commission and are a certified specialized setting for victims of trafficking. Our youth have access to therapeutic and educational services, and recreation. Youth reside in historic cottages with a family of resident advisors and support teams.

Community Prevention Partnership

200 Penn St., Reading 610.376.6988 | communitypreventionpartnership.org The Community Prevention Partnership (CPP), established in 1991, strives to make a difference by offering a variety of prevention services to Berks and Schuylkill County communities. The prevention services address problems and risks associated with: poverty, alcohol, tobacco and other substance use, violence, adolescent pregnancy, abuse, crime, childhood obesity and other related health and social issues.

berkscountyliving.com | APRIL 2021

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LIVING IN STYLE

Decorating with

Why adding greenery to your space is a 10/10 idea, and how to pull it off

BY L IL Y O S W A L D

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APRIL 2021 | berkscountyliving.com

A little Internet sleuthing shows that descriptors like “aspiring plant lady” and “plant mom” abound on friends’ social media bios, emphatically announcing their love and respect of houseplants. The words “crazy plant lady” have come to evoke feelings of pride and joy for many (myself included). The aspirations of the gen z and millennial generations to connect with nature, to earn the “green thumb” badge of honor, seem to be firmly planted so to speak.

So, what to do with all those plants we’re all working so hard, and seemingly so proudly, to keep alive? Why go to the trouble to water them weekly, prune them when they get “leggy,” haul them outside in the summer and inside in the winter and carefully repot them when a larger home is needed? The answer, my friends, is because plants benefit us in so many ways. They enliven a space, making our homes and

offices come alive with lush, gorgeous greenery to which no tchotchke can compare. They also reduce stress and anxiety (according to a study published in the Journal of Physiological Anthropology), and they can remove up to 87 percent of air toxins in 24 hours (according to a major NASA research project). In 2019, a medical practice in Manchester, England, decided to prescribe plants to their patients struggling with anxiety, depression and loneliness. Caring for a plant can be rewarding, especially when the living plant is happily growing and thriving. So, they’re aesthetically beautiful, mentally beneficial, and they improve our health by removing toxins from the air we breathe. Three big wins for plants!

If you’ve been collecting plants but are struggling with how to maximize their decor potential in your home, we’ve rounded up some ideas and images for inspiration. Whether you’re a veteran plant collector or are just getting started, here are some creative ways to consider bringing more plants into your spaces…

Styling

BOOKCASES AND SHELVES

Pair potted plants with your favorite artwork or framed photos. This provides more visual interest and helps “frame” the plant.

Photos and artwork coupled with your plants also allow you to introduce colors that match the rest of your space into the shelf styling.

Place trailing plants on higher shelves; let the tendrils cascade down.

Place trailing plants on higher shelves; let the tendrils cascade down.

Intersperse plants with stacks of books, or use pots as bookends.

Consider a unified color palette for your pots, for example all white or all terracotta pots. This will help the plants of different varieties feel unified.

Note: make sure wherever the shelf is placed, there’s plenty of light to meet the needs of your specific variety (typically full sun, partial sun or low light).

berkscountyliving.com | APRIL 2021

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LIVING IN STYLE

Creating a TABLESCAPE

Think of your table not just as the place you eat, but as an opportunity for a visual “tablescape,” e.g. a blank canvas for decorating with cut flowers, candles and/or potted plants. If you can picture the last wedding you were at, this is the at-home version of the elaborate decor common at big seated events.

The fresh flowers tablescape: Use fresh-cut flowers and clippings from the yard or your local plant store.

Start with a low-lying base of greens (think evergreen twigs, tems of eucalyptus, kale leaves or leaves from cut flowers like tulips).

Organize fresh-cut flowers in vases of alternating heights on top of the base of greens. Add candles in between the vases to create a warm glow.

The potted plant tablescape: Gather potted plants from around the house to place on the tablescape.

Start by placing your widest and tallest in the center of the table.

Place the rest of the pots in descending size order so that the smallest pots are at the ends of the table.

Don’t forget to leave room for serving dishes!

Consider adding a long runner to a rectangular table, or a circular charger or placemat to a circular table. This will create a visual border for your plants.

Depending on the lighting that hits your dining table, you can either leave the plants post-dinner (party), or return them to their rightful place on your shelf/windowsill/etc.

Plants are mobile; they don’t have to stay in the same spot in your home at all times (in fact, sometimes moving a plant’s location will give you a hint as to the lighting conditions it prefers).

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LIVING IN STYLE

Dressing up a WINDOWSILL

Keep the rule of three in mind. On the left you can see the hanging oxtail forms the top of a triangle: the begonia balances the bottom left, and the tall amaryllis leaves anchor the bottom right.

Smaller succulents adorn the windowsill.

Stick to a color palette. The burgundy in the embroidered pillowcase is mirrored in the dark red oxtail and the dark red begonia plants.

Combine textures: in the photo on the right, the smooth aloe plant mixes with the arrowhead plant and croton leaves, creating a sea of texture.

The smooth aloe plant mixes with the arrowhead plant and croton leaves, creating a sea of texture.

Stacked gourds overflow from the nonfunctional fireplace.

Styling a

FIREPLACE MANTLE The minimalist mantel: • Two oxtails in black ceramic pots adorn a stately black mantel in this Amsterdam apartment (bottom). The pair of similar containers creates a uniform look.

• The matching potted plants are flanked by a simple black and yellow painting, which is not large enough to anchor the entire mantel. The potted plants help to round out the space.

The maximalist mantel: • Mix plants with seasonal props: in this example, a strawberry begonia potted plant is centered on the mantel, then adorned with gourds, all stacked to create various heights.

• Add cut flowers in a ceramic vase for height.

• Add dried flowers to overhang the mantel; Amaranthus is great for this (check out The Quiet Botanist online for lots of colors.

They’ll ship you dried bunches!)

• Stacked gourds overflow from the nonfunctional fireplace in the example at left, from Blue Hill Stone Barns restaurant in upstate New York.

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APRIL 2021 | berkscountyliving.com

We’ve walked through a half-dozen examples of using plants to decorate in the home, including: 1. styling bookcases and shelves 2. creating a tablescape

3. decorating a coffee table

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4. greening your bar cart

Hopefully this provides some inspiration for greening your space. Plants truly make our homes and offices come alive. They rival the beauty of any luxurious piece of art and can be budget-friendly décor options.

Aesthetically, greenery brings so much to a space. Mentally, caring for a plant can provide such a deep source of pride. To “raise” a plant from seedling to maturity is gratifying, and can even help with loneliness and depression. Physically, plants are the yin to our yang; we breathe oxygen and exhale carbon dioxide, and they absorb carbon dioxide and release oxygen back into our spaces.

As we’re rounding out a full year since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, beautifying the spaces we spend so much time in, taking care of our mental well-being and prioritizing our physical health and air quality are all top of mind. Maybe some new plant friends can help you along this spring, becoming staples in your home, expertly styled to maximize the beauty of your space as well as your mental and physical health. 

Follow our projects: @DandBEliteCustom info@dandbelite.com Design. Build. Deliver. dandbelite.com 610.615.7993

We Care.

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BY NIKKI M. MURRY

Looking to support local when it comes to investing in products, services and more in your community? Read on and meet your 2021 People’s Choice leaders. While some may be on the small side, all are committed to “doing it right” and putting customers first. The leaders on the following pages are selected by YOU, and are a testament to how Berks businesses are putting their best foot forward despite any challenge put in front of them. Again in 2021, we’ve partnered with Channel 69 - WFMZ TV to present the 24th Annual People’s Choice Who’s Who in Business program.

With the help of independent marketing firm FieldGoals.US, months of research was conducted, including the mailing of a random email survey from the company polling Berks consumers about whom they see as the leading companies in 75 business categories. The results represent which businesses voters see fit to receive the People’s Choice Leader designation for 2021.

We’re thrilled that you’ve named Berks County Living as your leading local magazine again this year. Thank you! And we congratulate those businesses recognized as the best in their class in this year’s People’s Choice Who’s Who in Business program.

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PEOPLE'S CHOICE 2021

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PEOPLE’S CHOICE LEADING BAR/TAVERN Watch all your favorite games on our 54 flatscreen TVs with every sports package on satellite available 930 Pike Street, Reading | 610.373.6616 | www.pikecafe.com berkscountyliving.com | APRIL 2021

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PEOPLE'S CHOICE 2021

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PEOPLE'S CHOICE 2021

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DINING OUT THE BOLOGNA BURGER

THE ANGRY ANVIL:

This Kitchen Roars!

BY MARIAN FRANCES WOLBERS | PHOTOS BY HEIDI REUTER

H

e’s been cooking since culinary classes at Berks County’s Daniel Boone High School — and he hasn’t stopped. Sam Mengel, ChefOwner of Birdsboro’s The Angry Anvil is making a name for himself with his bar and grill establishment (offering both dine-in and takeout), maintaining a friendliness and flexibility that draw crowds to his doorway. Once inside, diners can put on their history-buff hats and revel in the framed photographs that honor and memorialize Birdsboro’s long and storied role in the iron and steel industry. “People keep coming in with old photographs,” Chef Mengel says, looking rather amazed and humbled, and it’s obvious he does his best to rekindle memories and awareness, while heating up an outstanding kitchen.

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APRIL 2021 | berkscountyliving.com

Burgers and Sauces, Sauces, Sauces

For everything from the straightforward Birdsburger to a Mushroom Gouda Burger and other variations like you’ve never tried before, Chef Mengel swings a mean spatula. Simply put: these burgers are GOOD. Unmatchably good. Menu choices include the Bacon Cheddar Burger using applewood smoked bacon, the Horsey Burger featuring Chef's own horseradish sauce, a Seared Turkey Burger and the Beyond Burger for vegetarians.

First-timers must try the robustly unforgettable Bologna Burger.

Paying homage to every Pennsylvania-made specialty he can get his hands on, Chef pairs a perfectly generous beef patty with that infamous,

one-of-a-kind flavor that comes from the next county over, plus locally sourced maple. Chef Mengel describes it this way: “Our certified angus smash burger is topped with fried sweet Lebanon bologna, maple mustard and American cheese on a butter-toasted brioche bun.” Wow! It’s fabulous all by itself, just as is. And that Maple Mustard Sauce? “You can’t get it anywhere else,” declares Chef.

Nonetheless, he urges diners to try numerous sauces on this burger, just for adventure. You can add, for example, his homemade Spicy Burger Sauce for a hot-iron taste and burn that literally lifts up (in a surprisingly gentle way) and infuses energy into every burger element in each hearty bite. Or maybe try the Anvil Sauce, for a very different experience. Or perhaps the Cherry Pepper Aioli?

Soon you realize that not only are The Angry Anvil’s main ingredients selected and prepared with great care and skill, but Chef Mengel’s sauces are adventures unto themselves. They’re such a natural and vital extension of his creative being that this fellow really should be dubbed the King of Sauces. “Sauces? Sauces are ridiculous…I have an idea for a sauce and I just go!” Word has gotten out, he admits: “People are looking for the sauces as they come in.”

GENERAL TUT'S TOFU TACOS

SWEET BUFFALO BLEU WINGS

The Angry Anvil

200 W. 1st St., Birdsboro 610.401.0862 theangryanvil.com

Buffalo Wings and Braised Beef Enchiladas

Wait, there’s more: Angry Anvil’s Sweet Buffalo Bleu Wings. “I know wings aren't unique,” says Chef. (That’s especially true in Berks County.) “But I promise that you won't find this flavor anywhere else!” Served with his seriously chunky house Blue Cheese and fresh carrots, this specialty is spot-on for takeout or dine-in. Indeed unique in rich flavor — salty and grounded, great with craft beer — the gorgeous wingettes and drumettes are utterly substantial in their meatiness. But oh, the flavor!

Angry Anvil’s wings merge sweet-silky with the deep Blue Cheese Sauce, and one more sauce for tangy dipping: Sweet Corn Ranch.

Also different — and so filling, they’re an entire meal — are the savory Braised Beef Empanadas, crispy fried shells encased with rich, slow-braised beef, Yukon Gold mashed potatoes and melted Cheddar cheese. Served with housemade, piquant-green Chimichurri Sauce and sour cream, they’re a mish-mash of your favorite Sunday dinner stuffed into a Southwest crescent.

Imagine multiple textures of crunchy and mellow, a mouth-feel alternating zingy hot and cool — with the chimichurri and smooth dairy.

For vegan diners, General Tut's Tofu Tacos provide parallel joy, described by Chef as “a play on General Tso's chicken.” Think: China meets Mexico! Crispy fried tofu, cabbage slaw, spicy barbecue, scallions and sesame seeds join up, all tucked gently into a flour tortilla. Dynamic flavor.

Delicious with any drink.

AngryAnvil

French Fry Celebrities

KIWI FRIES

Love fries? Here are French fries that you cannot get anywhere else. Do try these two “most popular” choices. First, the Kiwi Fries: “These were inspired by a trip to New Zealand,” says Chef Mengel, explaining their name.

These crispy battered fries are topped with sweet chili sauce, sour cream and scallions.

Scallions are freshly diced, providing just the right touch of oniony flavor for these colorful, fun potatoes. The sugary-sweet heat of that red tomato chili is countered by tart, bright sour cream, making these fries a treat you’ll dive into again and again.

Or ask for Garlic Parm Fries, tossed in garlic oil, fresh garlic, Parmesan cheese and parsley.

They call to mind yummy Italian pasta dishes, only you’re noshing on hearty, medium-cut potato slices. Shaved Parmesan cheese layering the hot fries truly lifts these into celebrity status.

For dessert, why not try homemade ice cream made from Lancaster Milk Stout? Tan, creamy, light…yummy. 

berkscountyliving.com | APRIL 2021

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