AROUND TOWN

Looking for an adventure of breathtaking proportions for the whole family? Head to Secret Valley Excursions – Railbikes on the Colebrookdale Line, a nonprofit specializing in leisurely railbike tours through the scenic Secret Valley. The SVE station was donated by John L. Davis, and improvements were made possible by Steve and Joann Maguire. The tours are fun for lovers of the outdoors both young and young-atheart. Riders of the four-wheeled, people-powered bikes can spot some of Pennsylvania’s wildlife and spend a quiet afternoon in the beautiful valley. “We’ve been supported by some phenomenal organizations in our mission to make railbikes like these accessible to people of all sizes and abilities so they can reach their wellness goals,” says Executive Director Michele Barrett. Secret Valley Tours also supports education and employment opportunities for adults on the autism spectrum who often face a lack of accommodations in the workplace. A variety of available volunteer positions are always available. To learn more visit parailbikestours.com. – MASON RABENOLD

In March of 2020, independent financial professionals Jodi Bukowski and Steve Hofmann formed Grandview Financial Partners of Wyomissing. Like many businesses that got their start during the pandemic, Grandview Financial is no stranger to changing plans and evolving circumstances. “When the world shut down in 2020, our protection-first philosophy became much more relevant to people who were concerned about their finances,” says Hofmann. Grandview Financial is a full-service firm offering financial services for individuals or businesses. These include advising on disability and life insurance, retirement savings, employer plans, succession planning and Roth IRAs. Appointments are flexible, with both in-person and online meetings available. To learn more, visit grandviewfinancialpartners.com or check out Grandview Financial Partners, LLC on Facebook to schedule one of their free monthly webinars. – MASON RABENOLD

With today’s abundance of employment opportunities, people from all backgrounds are climbing career ladders faster than they ever thought possible. For some though, professional roadblocks like language barriers and an unfamiliar company culture can cause conficts between co-workers and prevent highly skilled candidates from pursuing their goals. Workplace Talent Solutions of Reading specializes in adult education for the workplace, spending time with employees and members of management teams to help guide and create training plans for those individuals to reach their full potential. Director of Operations Cathy Martin says, “We’ve met so many individuals with advanced degrees in their home countries (accountants, engineers, lawyers, doctors, teachers) who work entry-level positions [here] for low wages. They have so many skills, but there’s a language barrier. We’re working to help those people move into higher paid positions.” Workplace Talent Solutions offers basic skills training for both employees and supervisors, including English as a Second Language classes, mathematics, communication skills, professional writing, cultural competency and retention training. For more info visit workplacetalentsolutions.com. – MASON RABENOLD

This year the Oley Valley Community Fair celebrates 75 years on Sept. 15-17. Here’s just a bit of what attendees can look forward to…

Main Stage. Performers are Twitty and Lynn (a Salute to Conway and Loretta featuring Tre Twitty and Tayla Lynn) on Sept. 15, Dion Pride & The Cramer Brothers Band on Sept. 16 and The Main Street Cruisers on Sept. 17.

Contests for Kids. Each day

features unique competitions for the younger set, including a Children’s Pedal Tractor Contest, Big Wheel Contest, Celebrity Dairy Showmanship Contest and a Youth Bale Throwing Contest.

Pre-Fair Anniversary

Celebration. On Sept. 10 on Main Street in Oley and at the Oley Fairgrounds there will be an event to celebrate both the 75th anniversary of the Oley Fair and the 125th anniversary of Oley Fire Company. It will include a parade, food and entertainment.

For more info visit oleyfair.org.

If you love a good burger, downtown Hamburg is the place to be on Sept. 3 from 10am to 6pm as the town hosts its 19th Annual Taste of Hamburg-er Festival. For more details on vendors, entertainment and more, visit tasteofhamburger.com.

BY SUE WILSON | PHOTOS COURTESY OF PORT CLINTON PEANUT SHOP

Take a drive to Port Clinton, a little borough nestled on the edge of Schuylkill County. As you enter the town, the smell of freshly roasted peanuts from the Port Clinton Peanut Shop will tickle your nose. Walk in to discover not just a variety of roasted nuts, but also a sweet tooth’s paradise.

“Every inch of the shop is covered with candy,” says the manager, Melissa Swenk.

And during the Easter, Christmas and Halloween holidays, the Peanut Shop adds even more as the staff decorates the showroom with seasonal candies and décor.

They are serious about their confections.

A History of Fun

Melissa says the Port Clinton Peanut Shop dates back to the 1800s. It has always been a penny candy store, but back then the owners kept it as a multi-purpose country store, selling hardware and local amenities as well.

In the 1960s, a woman named Grace Sunday lived in the building and managed the shop. She began to focus the goods more on candy, nuts and other local specialty candy and food items. In 1998, Grace sold the the store to Romeo D’Aurizio, a peanut wholesaler who began selling to her back in 1975. Melissa started selling candy and nuts with Romeo in 1985.

“It is a labor of love,” she explains. Everything that she has learned about the business of dried fruits and nuts and candies has been through the ever-changing years of managing the businesses and networking with other established candy retailers.

A Taste for Nostalgia

Enter the tiny storefront, and you’ll delight in the floor-to-ceiling confectionaries. It may be more candy than you can ever imagine.

According to Melissa, this is one of the main attractions of the Port Clinton Peanut Shop: the variety of product lines available. The store is the largest supplier of Jelly Belly products in the region. Feeling nostalgic? There is an abundance of novelty candies and vintage treats, such as Beeman’s gum, Broadway Rolls, Pop Rocks, candy cigarettes, Washington Twin Cherries, Mary Janes and Necco Wafers, to name just a few. There are also gourmet chocolates, Kopper’s panned chocolate, nut mixes, gourmet nuts and seasonal sweets. And you can’t miss the large collection of gummies: jelly and juju candies and a large collection of licorice from around the world.

In addition to retailing a large variety of confectioners’ candies, Melissa says they also make their own fudge, potato candy and dipped favorites, such as chocolate caramel peanuts and cashews, bacon, almond bark, peanut rolls and a few others. Is your mouth watering yet?

Customer favorites are the caramel corn, homemade potato candy, peanut brittle, gourmet chocolate pretzels and, of course, their freshly roasted peanuts, available in four different temperature varieties (light, medium, brown and extra brown) and served warm.

Expect to leave happy, Melissa says. Often customers will be reminded of days passed when a simple piece of candy triggers memories and stories.

“The uniqueness of this shop is the people,” she says. “The customers enjoy our selection, and we enjoy the customers.”

The shop is always open, closing only on Easter and Christmas. Hours are seasonal and listed online at portclintonpeanutshop.com and on Facebook @portclintonpeanut.

FUN FACTS

Pounding It. The Port Clinton Peanut Shop sells about 500 pounds of fresh roasted peanuts every week. Family Traditions. For 60+ years, generations of families have made visiting the Port Clinton Peanut Shop a tradition in their families.

BY CHRISTINA J. STEFFY | PHOTO BY JOHN A. SECOGES, SECOGES PHOTOGRAPHICS

Cammie Harris didn’t set out to work in the arts, but her previous careers in project management and the restaurant business allowed her to work with community arts events. She discovered a passion for working with community arts organizations and changed her career to pursue this passion.

How did you get involved with ReadingFilmFEST? When I moved to the area in 2015, I started working with the WCR Center for the Arts in Reading. I then began working with ReadingFilmFEST. I’ve been with ReadingFilmFest for four years now, and my goal is to grow film production in the city.

Why is Reading an attractive filming location? Since the COVID-19 pandemic, big cities that have traditionally supported independent (indie) filmmakers are facing production backlogs and limited resources, and priority is being given to big studios. Reading offers access to a variety of locations, a New-York based film studio, and a close community of business owners who can easily be reached and are eager to accommodate indie filmmakers.

ReadingFilmFEST is now in its eighth season. What can festival attendees look forward to this year? The festival is a four-day event. It will kick off Thursday, Oct. 27 with an international student film festival and a local student film screening. We will also host LUNAFEST, which features films made by and about women. On Friday, we have our opening gala at WCR and then film screenings at GoggleWorks and the Reading IMAX through Sunday. The event ends with our reception and awards ceremony on Sunday. Also, since the festival falls on Halloween weekend, we will have a live showing of the Rocky Horror Picture Show. Finally, we’re partnering with local organizations to have smaller pop-up events.

How are films chosen for the festival? The process starts Feb. 1 when we begin accepting submissions from all over the world in a variety of film categories. Submissions close at the beginning of July. Each film is reviewed and rated by three community jurors who are local film lovers or community leaders. Films that are chosen for the festival are then reviewed for awards by a professional panel of judges. We also have a viewer’s choice award given to a film chosen by festival attendees.

What is your favorite part about ReadingFilmFEST? I love the films, the art of filmmaking, the local community coming together; I love everything about it. It allows us to showcase the best of Reading and our culture.

Why are independent film festivals like ReadingFilmFEST important? Indie filmmakers need an audience. In order to get their work out to audiences, they have to submit to film festivals. Film distributors attend festivals to offer filmmakers deals to distribute movies to larger audiences. ReadingFilmFEST has connections with film distributors.

How do you relax and have fun? Work and my children keep me busy, but I enjoy reading, going for walks and going to New Jersey to visit family and go to the shore.

LEARN MORE.

International talent. ReadingFilmFEST has featured filmmakers from all over the world, including Portugal, Great Britain, South America and Australia.

Films by women, for women. LUNAFEST premiered in 2001 as the world’s first all-women traveling film festival.

at Paradise by the Slice

COMPILED BY NIKKI M. MURRY PHOTOS BY TANIA COLAMARINO, AMA PHOTOGRAPHY

What’s special about this featured drink?

The taste profile is dominated by the Ginger Beer which amplifies the spice of the bourbon itself and gives a swift kick to the palate while clearing the sinuses, too. The copper mug in which it’s served also makes the cocktail more appealing, keeps the drink cold and enhances the flavor properties.

◊ 1 ½ ounces bourbon ◊ 3 ounces Ginger Beer ◊ ½ ounce of fresh lime juice

◊ Muddler

In a copper mug, add a couple wedges of lime. Use the muddler to squeeze the natural juice out of the lime, being careful not to beat the lime to a pulp, then add ice.

Pour your bourbon of choice then top with Ginger Beer. Garnish with a Mint Sprig. Demitri Aziphat Demitri Aziphat is General Manager at Paradise by the Slice. He started at the Wernersville spot as a bartender about 2.5 years ago, just as COVID-19 began to spread. Aziphat has been bartending for 10 years, and has worked in the restaurant industry for about 15 years. He got his start as a Busser/Dishwasher at ViVA Bistro & Tapas Lounge, later gaining experience in multiple departments. Says Aziphat, “Since I’ve become a part of the Paradise family and grew into a management role, my aspiration of opening my own business is becoming progressively viable.”

For what occasion would you recommend this

cocktail? As fall approaches and the leaves start to change, the Kentucky Mule becomes a great option for all to enjoy. It warms the soul. Sit back, relax and enjoy one by the fire with loved ones. PAIR IT WITH…

Asian cuisine or a lighter dish that features shellfish. I’d highly recommend the Spicy Shrimp Salad from Paradise by the Slice.

BY DEB MILLMAN, Vice President of Development, GRCA | President of the Greater Berks Development Fund

The Greater Reading Chamber Alliance (GRCA) team works to set businesses up for success in Berks County. GRCA’s economic development team provides the necessary tools to help companies locate or grow their business in our community. Whether a company is seeking information to better understand its customer, looking for a property to accommodate relocation or expansion or requires assistance with financing, our team has the resources to make it happen.

GRCA’s affiliate organization, the Greater Berks Development Fund (GBDF), can assist Berks businesses with their financing needs. As the only Certified Economic Development Organization (CEDO) in Berks County, GBDF can access funding from the Pennsylvania Department of Community Development. GBDF is also a state and federally designated Community UPCOMING EVENT Development Financial Institution (CDFI) through the U.S. Department of Treasury. The purpose of a CDFI is to promote economic revitalization and development in underserved communities.

GBDF’s ability to access various sources of funding has paved the way for unique financing opportunities for Berks businesses for more than 70 years. In addition to the funding directly administered by GBDF, partnering with other organizations and financial institutions can occur to offer an attractive package for project needs. GBDF has utilized federal, state and local grant and loan programs to structure financing packages. As a CEDO, GBDF will often utilize the Pennsylvania Industrial Development Authority (PIDA) loan program to provide financial assistance to local companies. Established in 1956, PIDA is an independent authority staffed and regulated through the Pennsylvania Department of Community & Economic Development. PIDA provides capital for building acquisition, construction and renovation work, and machinery and equipment purchases. Eligible borrowers include manufacturers, industrial developers and agriculture-related entities such as food processors. Since 1981, GBDF has worked with Berks County companies, along with its own projects, to utilize $155 million in PIDA funds for more than $480 million of investment in the community.GBDF continues to be one of the most active borrowers of PIDA funds in the state. This year, GBDF has submitted three applications for funding to PIDA on behalf of Berks businesses totaling $1.5 million: two applications for agriculture operations to construct new facilities and a third for an existing Berks County manufacturer to purchase new equipment. Underwriting work is underway on several projects in our pipeline so additional applications are expected to be submitted throughout 2022. GRCA and GBDF are pleased to assist Berks businesses on their continued growth and expansion through traditional and unique financing opportunities. For more information, visit greaterreading. org/financing or contact Landon Bernheiser at LBernheiser@greaterreading.org. Join us for the 2022 Manufacturing Summit on Sept. 28 from 8am to Noon at RACC’s Miller Center for the Arts. Learn more and register at greaterreading.org. To Learn More & Register tinyurl.com/GRCAtraining2022

8th – Emotional Intelligence in the Workplace 12th – Lead Worker Certificate Program 13th – Supervisor Training: Module 1 14th – Introduction to Excel 14th – Essentials of E ective Management 15th – Diversity Equity and Inclusion: Leadership in the Workplace Register for Fall Training Now! 20th – Supervisor Training: Module 3 OCTOBER 13th – Emotional Intelligence in the Workplace 26th – Essentials of E ective Leadership

1st – Supervisor Training: Module 2 Please note: All trainings are held at the Center for Business Excellence, 49 Commerce Dr., Wyomissing.

Turn Over a 606 Court Street Reading, PA 19601 New Leaf, To Learn More & Register Visit tinyurl.com/GRCAtraining2022 Or Scan the QR Code Questions? Contact Mark Dolinski, VP of Training & Professional Development MDolinski@greaterreading.org or 610-898-8386

10th – Advanced Excel 15th – Introduction to Excel 19th – Intermediate Excel

8th – Emotional Intelligence in the Workplace 12th – Lead Worker Certificate Program 13th – Supervisor Training: Module 1 14th – Introduction to Excel 14th – Essentials of E ective Management 15th – Diversity Equity and Inclusion: Leadership in the Workplace Register for Fall Training Now! 20th – Supervisor Training: Module 3 OCTOBER 13th – Emotional Intelligence in the Workplace 26th – Essentials of E ective Leadership

1st – Supervisor Training: Module 2 Please note: Business Excellence, 49 Commerce Dr., Wyomissing.

Jim & Nate Blanski standing with portrait of Milton & Ann Blanski

The Blanski family has been in the mechanical contracting business since 1962. 2022 marks the 60th year that the Blanski family has served Eastern Pennsylvania and will continue to do so in the future. The company was started by Milton Blanski and Stanley Phillips as Blanski & Phillips Mechanical, Inc.

Over the years, the company has specialized in many areas, including: plumbing, industrial piping, heating, air conditioning, ductwork fabrication, HVAC service and portable boiler rentals. The key to the family’s business success has always been their commitment to providing quality service and products.

In 1986, Blanski Energy Management, Inc. was formed to provide quality service for HVAC equipment and systems the company has installed. As time passed, Milton Blanski retired and handed down the company to James (Jim) Blanski, the second generation. At that point in time, Blanski Energy Management, Inc. transitioned to more of a sheet metal fabrication and installation firm and continued to service many types of HVAC systems.

Blanski Energy Management has completed numerous sheet metal projects in and around the Philadelphia area since focusing on sheet metal work. Blanski worked on the Please Touch Museum, Samuel Fels High School, the Jewish National History Museum, two Swarthmore College Dormitories, Girard Music Academy, the Temple Baptist Renovation, the Temple-McGonigle Renovation, and many more projects. Outside of Philadelphia, Blanski has completed projects at Graterford Prison’s Boiler Plant and School, the Northampton Prison Renovation, Yuengling Plant #2, Coatesville 9-10 Center, Lincoln University Science and Cultural Center, 3 Connective Power Plant Projects, and the Reproductive Science Institute’s Laboratory and Operating Rooms and WUXI clean rooms.

Recently, Jim Blanski, CFO, has semi-retired and Nathan (Nate) Blanski, the third generation, is now in control of operations as president, continuing the company’s dedication to providing quality services and products. Blanski Energy Management has recently completed the following jobs: West Chester Science Building, the Philaport Vehicle Staging Center, Belmont Behavioral Hospital, Bimbo Bakeries, Solomon Solis Cohen Elementary and Valley Forge Visitor Center, among many others. Presently Blanski Energy Management is working on the Salem County Courthouse, New Jersey American Water, Chatham Elementary School, 545 N. Broad Street Apartments, and the Philadelphia Federal Building 7th/8th floor renovation. Blanski is providing and installing all of the duct systems on these projects.

Through every generation of ownership, the company has continued to look out for its customers’ best interests by providing education and training with their partner, the Sheet Metal Workers Local Union No. 19, and by financially supporting their pension, health and welfare funds. In addition, they support local and national charities, including: the Olivet Boys & Girls Club, Reading Police, PA Professional Firefighters, Mary’s Shelter, Wounded Warrior Project, and many others. Blanski Energy Management gives back to the communities in which it operates and hopes for a better future for all.

Estimating and CAD Drawing Dept Jason, Josh, and Phil

Office Staff Heather, Kim, and Janelle

Coil Line

Matt, Shop Foreman with Plasma Table