AROUND TOWN

Kutztown Record Store Offers Something for All

Opened in the 1990s, Young Ones Records remains one of the largest record stores in Berks County with 10,000+ new and used CDs and more than 5,000 new and used records for enthusiasts to browse. Owner Chris Holt has always loved music and when he learned the Kutztown area did not have a record store at the time, he resolved to open his own. The shop was first located across the street from Kutztown University’s Student Union Building, but has since moved to a larger location in the downtown area. The shop stays up on current trends and often updates its CD and vinyl collections. But Young Ones Records is more than just records. “We have a little for everyone,” says Chris. The spacious store also carries a collection of posters and t-shirts, as well even puzzles and guitars. Spend the day browsing at 26 S. Whiteoak Street or shop online at youngonesrecords.com. — LAURA RAMSEY

Vintage Store Brings Bohemian Chic to West Reading

Discover enchanting, bohemian chic style nestled in West Reading at vintage furniture and home goods store Finch + Fern: Rekindled Home. Whether you are looking to redesign a space or find a fun new decoration, the passion project from Kristan Milner-Callan, Mechelle Bush and Louise Peña-Candelaria can help you achieve it. The shop offers refurbished vintage furniture and home decor, homemade jewelry, custom candles and handmade soaps, to offer just a taste. “We are a mixture of the vintage, but the new,” shares Mechelle. “And with an eco-flair,” adds Louise. Nearly all of the upcycled, vintage furniture is created with eco-friendly products and often features a mid-century theme. The shop sells all of this in a clean, modern display roomcomplemented by its own signature scent: Bohemian Nest. The aromatic mixture of vanilla and pumpkin spice positively sweetens up any room. Visit 728 Penn Avenue or shop online at finchnfern.com. — LAURA RAMSEY

West Reading Brewery Offers Creative Brews

Dog friendly, family friendly and Veteran-owned, Willow Creek Brewing is the perfect place to spend a relaxing night sipping a homemade brew. Owned by Mark and Joanne Camlin, Mark is realizing his dream of running a brewery that would feature the many flavors of brews he enjoyed around the world while serving in the Air Force. Willow Creek Brewing opened in December of last year in West Reading and serves up Mark’s brewing creations inspired by fresh ingredients from farmers markets and the Camlins’ home garden. “We make some really different beers here,” explains Joanne. The brewery also works to give back to the community. One example is their fun “Steal the Glass Night.” Donating a dollar from each purchase, the brewery partners with an organization, creates specially designed cups for the night, and if you can “steal” the cup when leaving, you keep it; however, if you get caught you pay for the glass and the money goes to the charity. Willow Creek looks forward to adding a food menu to complement their brews in the future. Visit at 643 Penn Avenue or online at willowcreekbeer.com. — LAURA RAMSEY

Reading Science Center Celebrates its Birthday

The Reading Science Center at 645 Penn St., Reading, is celebrating its first birthday this month with some fun events. Read on for more info…

1.

Snapology & More.

If your child is a fan, programs will be held Oct. 2 and 23. Oct. 9 is Archie’s Math, and Oct. 16 is their S.I.S. Program.

2.

Parents’ Night Out.

Hey parents! Need a break from the kids and want to give them something fun to do at the same time? Sign up for Parents' Night Out planned for Oct. 22.

3.

Birthday Bash.

Join in the Science Center’s first birthday celebration on Oct. 30 by visiting dressed as your favorite scientist. Birthday parties can be planned at the science center, too!

For more info visit readingsciencecenter.org. For birthday party or Parents’ Night Out info, email sarah.troy@rdgsci.org.

Oktoberfest is Back!

The Reading Liederkranz brings back its world-famous event with performances, great eats and of course brews, through Oct. 3 at its home at 142 Spook Lane, Reading. For more info visit readingliederkranz.com.

Aiding Memory Support

at The Highlands at Wyomissing®

BY KELLY TANGER, PHOTOS COURTESY THE HIGHLANDS AT WYOMISSING®

Since 1989 The Highlands at Wyomissing has had its doors open to those in need of a little extra help with daily activities. Over the years, it has grown into a much larger community consisting of apartments and personal care apartments, offering skilled nursing care, fun activities and much more while still affording an independent lifestyle to its residents. The Highlands has an extraordinary reputation for offering remarkable homes and quality, unlimited Type A health care contracts for its residents. One extraordinary component is Aspire Memory Support. This program’s goal is to provide residents living with dementia or Alzheimer’s the opportunity to enhance their lives.

Memory Care Features

The Aspire Memory Support program is a patient-focused type of care. The staff works closely with residents to keep them as engaged as possible, from helping them pick out their clothes to recalling their life stories. This enables them to have a better understanding as to what their daily routines were prior to moving to The Highlands. Holly Moylan, NHA, PCHA and Personal Care Administrator says, “It’s just really understanding the person for who they are so that we can assist them in the best way possible to keep their life as close to what they were living prior to [living at The Highlands], as well as keeping them engaged and giving them something to do so that they are feeling purposeful.”

One aspect that has aided residents in feeling purposeful and helps them flourish in the memory support program is creating an environment that utilizes biophilic design. This design concept increases the connectivity between people and nature. President & CEO Kevin P. DeAcosta states, “The building itself was created in a way to help residents thrive in the memory support environment. When you walk into each of the households there is a high-quality dedication to natural light and synthetic light. We maintain light levels in the space which we know are conducive to better quality care outcomes for people, not only senior adults, but senior adults with dementia.”

Communal activities, which are prompted by what residents desire, are meant to help enhance their lives and decrease behavioral changes, such as the 4 As of Alzheimer’s: Agitation, Anxiety, Aggression and Apathy. Holly explains, “As we have increased the number of engagements that we’ve had available to residents, we have seen a lot less of those 4 As.” Activities may include assisting with setting dining tables, being part of a baking or gardening group, or a host of many other options to spur conversation and ensure residents take pleasure in a fulfilling, meaningful day. Beautiful outdoor courtyards provide a positive, hands-on venture. Residents may partake in gardening, where all plants smell delightful and are completely safe in case of accidental ingestion.

Another facet to memory care at The Highlands is the memory boxes outside each occupant’s apartment. These glass cases contain items such as family photos or little knickknacks that are personal to them. This not only helps them to identify their apartment and encourage a returning memory, but it also aids staff in getting to know the individual’s life history a bit better, making their life at The Highlands an enriching time.

MORE FACTS

Shades of Purpose. The color of

the concrete at The Highlands is made to accommodate all senior adult eyes, especially those living with dementia.

Recreation Galore. Simple pleasures at The Highlands include beautiful roads and walkways, a fully equipped fitness center, an indoor heated saltwater pool, a library, art studio, putting greens and more.

IN THE LIMELIGHT WITH Beth Garrigan CEO of Safe Berks

BY VERNA FISHER | PHOTO BY JOHN A. SECOGES, SECOGES PHOTOGRAPHICS

Beth Garrigan has been the face of Safe Berks as CEO for the past year. Among her duties, she serves as the main point of communication between the board of directors and the staff, maintaining a positive community image and executing the mission and work for the organization.

Can you tell us about Safe Berks? Safe Berks, formerly known as Berks Women in Crisis, was founded in 1976 by 12 local women dedicated to providing services to victims of domestic violence. In 2016, we celebrated our new name – Safe Berks. This new name was important because we serve all survivors – not only women. We also serve victims/survivors of sexual violence, stalking and human trafficking.Our new name is our goal. We want a Safe Berks. We offer free and confidential services that include, but are not limited to, a 24/7/365 Hotline and text line, emergency shelter, counseling, support groups, financial counseling, medical and legal advocacy and accompaniment, campus advocacy, prevention programming for students in grades K-12 and education and awareness presentations.

Are there other types of community work that you are involved in?I am a Charter member of the Women Excelling chapter of the American Business Women’s Association.I speak at events and/or with families about Four Diamonds’ mission to conquer childhood cancer by assisting children and their families through superior care, comprehensive support and innovative research and THON, Penn State’s student-run philanthropy committed to enhancing the lives of children and families impacted by childhood cancer, and I strive to support our County’s small businesses, especially after all of the challenges they faced during the COVID-19 pandemic.

How do you enjoy your free time? I spend time with my husband, who has been my biggest supporter and best friend for 35 years, my two grown children who continue to amaze and inspire meevery day, and my fur baby Murphy who’s favorite thing to do is spend her day at Safe Berks!I enjoy walking, a quiet evening by the fire pit, visiting the local animal shelters, trying new recipes (although I am not a very good cook), and if I am being completely honest, I LOVE a good nap!

Are there volunteer opportunities at Safe Berks? YES!We have many volunteer opportunities available throughout the year, and are always looking for those interested in providing, preparing and/or cooking meals for our shelter residents.With the holidays coming, we have gift wrapping needs at the Berkshire Mall during the month of December, and we offer specific required training for those who would like to work directly with our victim survivors.Anyone interested in learning more can contact MindyM@SafeBerks.org.

GET MORE.

Did you know?

Anyone suffering from domestic violence or sexual abuse can receive help even 20 years after the crisis? Safe Berks isn’t just for an immediate crisis; they provide services “when you’re ready,” Garrigan says.

Mark Oct. 18 on your Calendar.

The Silent Witness Project is a visual monument walking event from Safe Berks to RACC. Upon arriving at RACC, victims' names are read aloud in respect for the tragic loss of their lives.

I think the most beautiful leafpeeping experience in Berks is found at the Reading Public Museum. I love to stroll the grounds. – Sara Woodward, account executive

Fall brings some great events to Berks. My favorite is actually Merchant Trick-or-Treat held in Kutztown. I love how all of the Main Street businesses open up and college students come out to give candy to kids in costume. – Nikki M. Murry, editor

I like my pumpkin in pie form! It seems to be a quintessential dessert at my fall family gatherings. – Quynh Fisher, art director

Before the weather gets too chilly, I have to get to Hawk Mountain to enjoy the spectacular view. – Marian Frances Wolbers, freelance writer, Dining Out

STAFF PICKS Fall

Fall is festive and fun. How does the BCL staff enjoy autumn in Berks County? Read on to find out and get some ideas for yourself, too!

For me, Apple Cider Donuts are a must-eat fall food. The best are from Frecon Farms in Boyertown. You have to try them! – Elizabeth Beebe, account executive Believe it or not, holiday shopping time is just around the corner. One of my favorite local spots to shop is Paisley & Company in Kutztown because I love to personalize products for my family and friends. – Robyn L. Jones, publisher

CELEBRATING OUR Latino-owned Businesses

BY JULIE LARISON, Director of Membership, GRCA

The growth of Latino businesses rapidly outpaced the U.S. average prior to the pandemic, according to the Stanford Latino Entrepreneurship Initiative, which collects survey data from Latino-owned businesses across the country to assess the latest trends in Latino entrepreneurship in the United States. The Stanford Initiative found that between 2009-2019, the number of Latino businesses grew 34 percent, compared to 1 percent for all business owners in the United States.

In honor of Hispanic Heritage Month, the Greater Reading Chamber Alliance (GRCA) and the Berks County Latino Chamber of Commerce invite you to celebrate the history, culture, contributions and accomplishments of the Latino business community. From restaurants to retail, banking, real estate and professional services, Berks County is home to more than 100 Latino-owned businesses.

Take advantage of this amazing diversity and shop, dine and enjoy the many businesses that are vital to the success and vibrancy of the Greater Reading region. In addition to supporting the Latino business community, consider eating at one of these Reading area restaurants or attending an event planned during Hispanic Heritage Month.

Latino Restaurants:

∙ Ana’s Restaurant, 800 N. 8th St., Reading ∙ Antojitos y Mas, 154 Walnut St., Reading ∙ Café de Colombia, 645 Penn St., Reading ∙ Casa Cortes, 39 N. 9th St., Reading ∙ Casa de Chimi, 402 Franklin St., Reading ∙ Casa de Mofongo, 124 S. 5th St., Reading ∙ El Tronco de Lily, 101 S. 6th St., Reading ∙ Franklyn’s Burgers and Shakes, 1007 Penn St., Reading ∙ La Cabana, 6th & Cherry Sts., Reading ∙ La Casa de los Pastelillos, 922 Penn St., Reading ∙ Let’s Taco Bout It, 616 Penn Avenue,

West Reading ∙ Mecca Caribbean, 166 Franklin St.,

West Reading ∙ Mi Casa Su Casa, 320 Penn St., Reading ∙ Old San Juan Café, 808 N. 9th St., Reading

Event:

∙ Evening of Empowerment presented by

Berks Women2Women & Mujer de Mujer,

Wednesday, Oct. 20, 5-7pm. 

UPCOMING EVENT

Building Berks Awards & Expo, 5 to 8pm on Wednesday, Oct. 13, DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Reading. To purchase tickets, visit greaterreading.org.

The Fabulous Equinox Orchestra

Big Band and Swing Thursday, October 21 7:30 pm

Celebrate Marimba!

Sunday, November 7 4:00 pm

Violins of Hope

Free Lecture & Performance Monday, November 8 7:30 pm

All performances in Schaeffer Auditorium 610-683-4092 www.KutztownPresents.org

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