Skip to main content

Faces of Berks 2026

Page 1


Who Are the 2026 FACES of Berks? They’re the trusted professionals and organizations at the top of their fields — respected leaders you can count on for excellence, care and community commitment.

These are the best of the best across a wide range of industries, including your local grocery store, wellness and healthcare service providers, pet sitters, community nonprofit organizations, realtors, home improvement specialists, banking professionals and wealth managers, funeral service providers, house cleaners, local eateries, higher education institutions, senior living communities, hair and beauty experts and those selling custom and fine jewelry.

Now in its 11th year, our FACES of Berks section introduces you to those making a difference locally. They’ve earned their reputations by consistently delivering quality, integrity and exceptional service. Meet them on the pages that follow.

Text by Nikki M. Murry | Photos by Heidi Reuter

THE FACE OF REAL ESTATE

The Lisa Tiger Team

Century 21 Gold

When it’s time to buy or sell in Wyomissing and throughout Berks County, elevate your experience with the Lisa Tiger Team.

Lisa Tiger and Bill Moser of CENTURY 21 Gold deliver a refined, results-driven approach to real estate — where local expertise meets exceptional service. Deeply rooted in the community and highly regarded across the region, they offer more than guidance — they deliver a competitive edge.

Lisa’s distinguished track record, strategic marketing vision and longestablished presence set the tone for success, while Bill’s unique blend of real estate insight, engineering knowledge and mortgage expertise ensures precision at every step. Cherrie Doyle, licensed for 22 years, handles the administrative support.

Together, they create a seamless, elevated experience designed for discerning clients who expect more.

Backed by an elite support network and the global power of CENTURY 21 Gold, every detail is handled with intention, discretion and care. From sophisticated marketing to skillful negotiation, your goals are not just met — they’re exceeded.

Team Up with the TIGER. Command Your Next Move.

1125

THE FACE OF GROCERIES

Redner’s Fresh Markets | The Central Kitchen & The Chop Shop

Chef Tim Twiford, a lifelong chef and Chef with Redner’s Central Kitchen, considers it both a privilege and a meaningful challenge to contribute to the grocery store industry. He provides a range of services aimed at accommodating the specific needs and preferences of Redner’s guests, including preparing meals, readyto-eat fresh-cut fruits, vegetables and a selection of fresh salads, as well as catering services. He and the Redner’s team support special events and local nonprofit organizations by offering private dining services at Chef Tim’s Table. Joining him is Tabi Crockett, general manager of Redner’s Central Kitchen. Crockett got her start with Redner’s in 2001 as a cashier at the Leesport location.

The Central Kitchen, left to right: Beto Morales, Tabi Crockett, Josenoly Capitle

She hopes to spend another 25 years with the family-owned and -operated company and loves that innovative ideas like Redner’s Central Kitchen are able to serve the community with home-cooked meals, sides and more.

In late 2025, Redner’s opened The Chop Shop.

Explains Mark Yablonski of the effort, “We offer a full line of pre-cut fruit in a variety of sizes for our guests to eat as a snack or to enjoy at parties and so on.” That goes for veggies, too. All foods are cut and prepared in a single facility, helping to maintain product consistency at all Redner’s locations.

Ask Chop Shop General Manager Tim Cozzone and he’ll tell you how the offerings are not only delicious, but eye-appealing, too.

Responsible for assembling the 14 varieties of freshly made garden salads you’ll find at Redner’s locations, second-generation employee Katelyn Mertz asserts, “No other retailer in our area is producing salads like our facility. All fresh ingredients are processed through our cutting facility. We are doing everything from chopping the lettuce to grilling the chicken.”

Need to grab lunch or dinner and don’t want to do the cooking? Want an event catered? Redner’s has you covered.

The Chop Shop, left to right: John Kersikoski, Tim Cozzone, Chef Tim Twiford, Mark Yablonski, Katelyn Mertz

CARE AND COMPASSION

IN YOUR FAMILY’S TIME OF NEED

Kuhn Funeral Homes | Pet Cremations by Kuhn | Dohner Memorials

Focused, dedicated and compassionate service to every family we serve is the foundation of Kuhn Funeral Homes. Built on the premise that we focus on each and every family as if they were our own, we strive to reach a level of service that is unmatched in our area.

Equally important is our teamwork. Being an unselfish teammate where everyone is supportive of each other adds strength to what we do. Through our sound culture we have been able to grow in a steady and positive way. With funeral homes in West Reading, Temple, Hamburg, Pottstown and Reading, our reach to our community is greater now more than ever. Pet Cremations by Kuhn and Dohner Memorials are two additional ways we meet the needs of our community. Thank you, Berks County, for your confidence in us. We never take that trust for granted and are always grateful when you choose us in your time of need.

THE FACE OF IMPLANT & RESTORATIVE DENTISTRY

Do you want to be able to smile again? Dr. Andrea Smith and the talented staff at Berks Prosthodontics are trusted and recommended by more than 100 area dentists and oral surgeons to handle their patients’ complex or cosmetic dental needs.

Combining her passion for art and medicine, Dr. Smith graduated as valedictorian from Penn State’s Eberly College of Science before moving on to do the same from Columbia Dental School in New York. She was then accepted into UCLA’s prestigious Advanced Prosthodontics residency to become one of only 350 maxillofacial prosthodontists worldwide. Today, she is the area’s foremost expert in dental implant restorations, crowns, bridges, dentures, cosmetic dentistry and fullmouth implant prosthetics.

From whitening and restoration to total replacement and even facial prosthetics, Berks Prosthodontics combines state-of-the-art techniques with the best materials and technology to give you the smile makeover you deserve.

955 Berkshire Blvd. Ste. 104, Wyomissing 484.577.3530

berkspros.com

THE FACE OF THE FUTURE OF CHILD WELFARE

Bethany Children’s Home

Nick Hill’s passion for child welfare began at Alvernia University, where he earned his degree in Criminal Justice Administration planning for a law enforcement career. That path shifted when Hill joined the Holleran Center for Community Engagement, working with youth in Reading through the Ready.Set.READ! program. Those experiences showed him the power of mentorship and inspired Nick to expand his studies and experiences.

Today, at Bethany Children’s Home, Hill leads an organization providing a trauma-informed continuum of care, including residential treatment, shelter care, transitional living and independent living programs, supporting youth through therapy, education and life skills development.

As his career evolved in the human services field, Hill earned a Master of Science in Organizational Leadership, a Graduate Certificate in Nonprofit Leadership, and became a BoardCertified Human Services Practitioner and Certified Nonprofit Executive. Grounded by strong family support, Nick remains committed to helping youth heal, grow and build stable futures.

THE FACE OF JEWELRY

Van Scoy Jewelers

If you’re looking for a quality piece of jewelry for yourself or a loved one, head to Van Scoy Jewelers in Wyomissing. With 48 years in business and serving a third generation of families, Van Scoy focuses on ethically sourced diamonds and gemstones as well as creating custom pieces. On a budget? The store sells pieces in an assortment of price ranges, starting at just $100. Bridal-related items are big sellers. (Fun fact: owner Caroline Hill will be a newlywed herself when you read this!) Customers can trust that should their jewelry ever need some TLC, Van Scoy can take care of it in their full-service repair department. Ask a Van Scoy customer what they love most about the shopping experience, and they will likely tell you it’s that they never feel pushed to make a purchase. The long-tenured, knowledgeable team is happy to help every individual find the piece that speaks to them.

Left to right: Melissa, Judy, Cindy, Caroline, Deb and Cassi

THE FACE OF

MARKETING

FXV Digital Design

Some companies sell marketing. FXV Digital Design builds brands people actually remember.

What started as a creative vision of Founder Freddy X. Vasquez has grown into one of Berks County’s most recognizable marketing agencies — blending strategy and storytelling into content that feels real, not robotic. The FXV team believes great marketing should make people stop scrolling, laugh a little, feel something and most importantly… remember your business.

At FXV, no two brands are treated the same. The team is known for bold ideas, authentic storytelling and making marketing feel a lot less corporate and a lot more human. One day, they’re filming flaming tacos and cocktail pours in slow motion, the next, they’re hanging out of the back of trucks for “the shot,” helping local brands become local favorites.

Known for bold creativity, strong community relationships and an approach that feels more collaborative than corporate, FXV has become the team businesses call when they’re ready to stop blending in and start standing out.

Let’s Create Something Awesome Today!

THE FACE OF PET SITTING

Founded in 2012 by Jill Vasquez, Berks Pet Care began with one simple mission: to provide reliable, professional and compassionate care for pets while giving their owners peace of mind. What started as a one-person operation has grown into Berks County’s leading pet sitting and dog walking company, supported by a team of experienced, professional pet sitters.

For 14+ years, Berks Pet Care has built a reputation for trust, consistency and exceptional service throughout the community. As a bonded and insured professional company, they provide personalized care tailored to each pet’s unique needs and routine. From daily dog walks and vacation pet sitting to senior pet care, every visit is handled with professionalism, compassion and genuine love for animals. Says Vasquez, “We believe pets are happiest at home, where they feel safest and most comfortable. Today, Berks Pet Care is proud to be recognized as Berks County’s #1 pet sitting company, known not only for our experience and reliability but also for the heart we bring to every visit.”

THE FACE OF EFFORTLESS BEAUTY

After 20 years of working in the hair industry, Kayla Schoener saw her path changing when her son was born. She says, “I decided to take a leap and open my own hair studio.” And Wild Bloom Hair Studio was also born, with Schoener acting as owner and stylist.

Part of My Salon Suites in Wyomissing, the private salon suite allows Schoener to offer every client a one-on-one experience in a calm, welcoming environment. A full range of hair services are available, including custom color, lived-in blonding and brunettes, gray coverage, curly cuts, haircuts, smoothing services and luxury hair extensions.

Says Schoener, “I focus on listening and creating a look that feels like you. My goal is to always give you hair that makes you feel confident and beautiful in your own skin.”

Cheering her on in her efforts is her supportive family: her husband, Brad; children, Blake and Harper; and their two dogs.

700 Woodland Rd.

Ste. 203, Wyomissing

610.401.5826

wildbloomhairstudiopa. glossgenius.com

THE FACE OF

SPECIALTY COFFEE & TEA

Reading Coffee Company

Rooted in tradition and driven by innovation, Reading Coffee Company (RCC) has spent decades building a reputation for exceptional small-batch specialty coffee. Family-owned and -operated, RCC roasts premium Arabica coffees sourced through specialty importers committed to quality, ethical practices and fair compensation for growers.

Many cups enjoyed throughout the region — including coffees served under other local labels — trace their roots back to Reading Coffee. From cafés and restaurants to offices, retailers, churches and hospitality partners, RCC has become a cornerstone of the regional coffee community.

Coffee is roasted to order, emphasizing freshness, consistency and attention to detail in every batch. The flagship Birdsboro café offers specialty beverages, fresh food, boutique wines and warm hospitality in a beautifully restored setting.

Beyond coffee, RCC remains committed to inclusive employment partnerships, charitable outreach and meaningful collaborations throughout the tri-state area, proving that great coffee can help bring communities together. Guests experience more than coffee alone, with an atmosphere rooted in local pride, quality and genuine hospitality.

Left to right: Jeremy Kibler, Cafe Operations Manager; Alex Maynard, Director of Business Development; Lindsey McDonough, Lead Baker; Coral Sandoval-Avalos, Cafe Operations Supervisor; Kristen Young, Lead Roaster; Jackie Dunleavy, Director of People & Culture; Frank Orman, President & CEO; Micah Shaw, Roasting Operations & Production Manager; Will Lamm, Digital Marketing & Social Media Manager

THE FACE OF

CUSTOM JEWELRY

Gilded Design Studio

Gilded Design Studio is a women-owned and -operated jewelry studio led by owners Rebecca Freundt and Meggan Skiles. Rebecca is the studio’s designer and metalsmith, bringing each custom piece to life through thoughtful design, skilled craftsmanship and a deep love for meaningful jewelry. Meggan is a GIA Accredited Gemologist, offering expert guidance in diamonds, gemstones, sourcing and quality.

Together, Rebecca and Meggan create a custom jewelry experience that is personal, approachable and collaborative from start to finish. Whether redesigning inherited pieces, creating something entirely new or helping clients select the perfect stone, they take time to understand each story, style and vision.

Gilded Design Studio is built on honest guidance, transparent pricing and exceptional care. Every piece is designed with intention and made to feel timeless, personal and beautifully unique. As a women-led business, Gilded is proud to offer a welcoming space where every client feels heard and celebrated.

Left to right: Emily Kenniston; Patti Swoyer; Meggan Skiles, Co-Owner; Tiffany Elison; Rebecca Freundt, Co-Owner

THE FACE OF

SENIOR EYE CARE

Berks Eye Physicians & Surgeons

For more than 70 years, the dedicated eye care specialists at Berks Eye Physicians & Surgeons have focused on achieving excellence in the field of Ophthalmology, especially Cataract Surgery, Glaucoma Treatment and Macular Degeneration. Utilizing the most advanced technology and visioncorrecting techniques, including the latest medications, diagnostic testing, laser treatments and surgical procedures, Berks Eye provides a full spectrum of ophthalmic, optometric and optical services to enhance vision and promote ocular health.

Reviews on Google and other sites say it all. Just one patient asserted, “Had cataract surgery in January. Very pleasant, painless and stress-free experience. Best vision since grade school.”

The friendly staff at Berks Eye is dedicated to delivering personalized attention and preserving patients’ vision and eye health throughout their entire life.

1802 Paper Mill Rd., Wyomissing 610.372.0712 berkseye.com

Left to right: Guri Bronner, MD; Benjamin D. Nicholas, MD; Francisco L. Tellez; Jacquelyn M. Horst; Peter D. Calder, MD; Michael C. Izzo, MD; Travis J. Gabriel, OD; Kasey L. Pierson, MD

THE FACE OF EDUCATION

For James McCarty, taking on the role of Director of Enrollment Management at Penn State Berks is a full-circle moment.

He recalls, “I arrived back in 2009 as a first-generation student who was looking for opportunity, direction and a sense of belonging, and I found all three at Penn State Berks! My entire college experience sparked my passion for higher education and, more specifically, admissions and financial aid. I saw how access to the right information, encouragement and genuine relationships can open doors for students and families. I knew early on that I wanted to be part of that process, helping students see what’s possible for themselves.” Now he helps others succeed in their Penn State Berks education.

Penn State Berks provides a comprehensive, student-focused experience with small class sizes and close faculty relationships. It’s unique in that it offers something increasingly rare in higher education: a truly personal, close-knit campus experience combined with a worldrenowned Penn State degree.

2100 Stoudt Rd., Wyomissing 610.396.6060

berks.psu.edu

THE FACE OF ASSISTED LIVING

The Highlands at Wyomissing

Aspire for Well-Being Assisted Living at The Highlands at Wyomissing® reflects what residents and families consistently say matters most: knowledgeable, personable staff who genuinely care, excellent food quality and a lifestyle that feels both supportive and comfortable. Following a recent, comprehensive renovation, the Assisted Living households now feature thoughtfully updated, inviting spaces designed to enhance daily living. Residents enjoy private rooms with personal bathrooms and showers, supporting privacy, dignity and a true sense of home. Engaging activities and wellness programs foster social connection, purpose and enjoyment each day, helping residents remain active and involved in community life. Families frequently share the peace of mind they experience knowing their loved one is supported by attentive, licensed professionals in a warm and welcoming environment. With these enhancements complete, Aspire for Well-Being Assisted Living at The Highlands at Wyomissing is now accepting waitlist applications from community residents for September 2026 and invites interested individuals to experience firsthand how quality care, comfort and community come together in a beautifully refreshed setting.

Left to right: Cailin Cochrane, Care Navigator; Ashley Kirkpatrick, MSW, NHA, Administrator; Amanda Hirneisen, RN, BSN Director of Wellness

THE FACE OF WORKFORCE HOUSING

Community Workforce Fund, LLC

Stephen T. Gieringer, CEO of Neighborhood Housing Services (NHS) of Greater Berks, Inc. and Senior Fund Manager of Community Workforce Fund, LLC (CWF), is leading a new era of workforce housing and social impact investing in Pennsylvania. Since taking the helm in 2017, he has helped grow NHS from approximately $4 million to nearly $25 million in assets while expanding access to homeownership for working families across the Commonwealth.

Driven by a belief that housing creates dignity, stability and generational wealth, Gieringer launched the Community Workforce Fund to connect private capital directly to affordable housing solutions with measurable community impact.

“The CWF is designed to turn investment capital into opportunity,” says Gieringer. “Every penny of your investment goes directly to funding the American Dream for over 300 families annually — strengthening neighborhoods, supporting the workforce and creating lasting community impact.”

The CWF offers accredited investors and institutions the opportunity to generate stable returns while directly fueling one of Pennsylvania’s most innovative workforce housing initiatives.

THE FACE OF

Fleet Feet West Reading

Fleet Feet of West Reading is not just a shoe store; it’s where Berks Countians go to find the right shoes for their feet. Founder Sorita Averill fell in love with running more than 25 years ago. In 2004, she left her corporate career to realize her dream of opening A Running Start and building a running community in Berks that fosters a culture of inclusivity and wellness. In 2018, she seized the opportunity to partner with Fleet Feet brands, allowing her to remain an independent small business but with a lot more tools. Ready to run? Fleet Feet West Reading offers state-of-the-art foot scanning and gait analysis to find the best fit for your needs. They also help athletes with technical gear, accessories, free physical therapy sessions and even bra fitting. For all this and more, FFWR has been recognized as one of the “Top 50 Running Stores” in the nation.

705 Penn Avenue, West Reading 610.320.9097 fleetfeetwestreading.com

THE FACE OF FINANCIAL PLANNING

Financial Planning Advisors

Whether you are experienced in the world of financial matters or are just starting to build your portfolio, managing your financial future can be daunting. It’s difficult to put together a practical and successful financial plan when faced with inflation, changing tax laws and a complex array of products. Life changes — the birth of a child, retirement or the death of a loved one — only complicate matters further. Financial Planning Advisors can help you simplify.

Beth Gallen Mastromarino, CFP®, has been in the business of helping Berks County residents manage their finances for more than 40 years. What makes Beth and her team unique? They start every relationship with a customized financial plan that provides a framework for your financial future. Whether you want to review your investments or retirement plans, expand a business, reduce your tax burden or start planning for your family’s future, Financial Planning Advisors is your trusted advisor every step of the way.

1122 Penn Avenue, Wyomissing 610.376.6334 financialpa.com

Left to right: Gretchen Keith; Mia Hess; Beth Gallen Mastromarino, CFP; Terri Reber; Alex Patterson, CPA

& POLLINATOR PLANTINGS

Chrissy Heim

New Castle Lawn & Landscape

Meet Chrissy Heim — a perfect example of passion meeting purpose. At New Castle Lawn & Landscape, great work starts with people who truly care, and Heim is the perfect example.

As our senior account sales representative, she brings warmth, energy and genuine enthusiasm to every client conversation. But ask her what really lights her up, and she’ll tell you: native plants and pollinator gardens.

Heim believes your outdoor space can be both beautiful and a haven for bees, butterflies and birds. She’ll help you design a landscape that gives back to the ecosystem right in your own backyard — and she’ll have fun doing it with you every step of the way.

Whether you’re dreaming of a wildflower border or a full pollinator sanctuary, Heim has the knowledge, heart and creativity to make it bloom. Call or text 610.796.7818 to connect with Chrissy or visit online at NC94.com. 3

THE FACE OF DESIGN FOR AN ORGANIZED LIFE

If the idea of finding something in your closet causes you stress, call on Closets by Design. The largest provider of home organizing products in Pennsylvania and Delaware, the company offers exceptional products and services, including custom closets, home offices, Murphy beds, pantries, wall units, garages and garage flooring. And all work is performed by their staff of fulltime employees. No subcontractors here! Says President Charles Waterman, “Our certified designers are trained to assess your wardrobe and gather an understanding of what we can do to make your life more enjoyable and to reduce stress so you can use your time to focus on other things. We are skilled at designing functional and beautiful dream closets and other organizational systems that fit any budget. Clients are so delighted with the design and installation that they often ask for the same designer and installer to enhance another area of their home.”

610.644.4143

closetsbydesign.com

Left to right: Charles Waterman, Kathy Bilhuber, Veronica Barnes, Ian Brennan, Tina Hackett, Michael Leibowitz, Debbie Ashton PHOTO BY CHRISTOPHER KOLES

For nearly 90 years, the Rainbow® Cleaning System has stood apart as the most trusted name in healthy home cleaning. For Environaire owner Craig Laudenslager, the belief in Rainbow® started the moment he saw the system in 1977. Next year will mark his 50th year in business, continuing a legacy built on service, education and helping families to create cleaner indoor environments. That legacy is now continuing into the next generation. Craig’s son, Cory, grew up around the business and is preparing to carry it forward, selling and servicing Rainbow® systems for customers.

To date, the Laudenslagers have helped place 65,000+ American-made Rainbow® systems in homes, schools and businesses. Customers who see the Rainbow® in action are amazed at how water-based filtration is able to trap dust, dirt and allergens while cleaning floors and helping freshen the air. The result is a cleaner home environment, reduced household dust and air that feels noticeably fresher.

Want to see the difference? Contact Environaire-Rainbow for a demonstration.

THE FACE OF

BANKING

Customers Bank

Berks-born Zachary Ebert, Vice President & Relationship Manager with Customers Bank, credits his career course to a chance meeting on a golf course. “I was working at a club during college when I was introduced to a commercial banker who became a mentor to me.”

Today, Ebert assists clients on loans, lines of credit, treasury management and everyday financial tools businesses count on. His specialty? The advice.

“I’m not in the business of pushing products. I’m in the business of understanding businesses. I take time to learn how a company operates, where it’s headed and what’s standing in the way. From there, we can identify which financial strategies will move the needle and achieve results.” He’s dedicated to being there for every client in good times and turbulence.

Founded in 2009, Customers Bank was built on a set of principles: entrepreneurial urgency, differentiated strategy and obsessive customer focus. Customers Bank is a nationally recognized, high performing institution with more than $20 billion in assets and peerless client service.

customersbank.com

THE FACE OF PLASTIC SURGERY

Berks Plastic Surgery

As a full-spectrum aesthetic practice, locally and nationally recognized Berks Plastic Surgery offers everything from transformative surgical procedures like breast augmentation and tummy tucks to refined non-surgical treatments including Botox®, dermal fillers and laser skin resurfacing.

At Berks Plastic Surgery, everything happens under one roof. Whether visiting with a surgeon, injector or aesthetician, patients see the same cohesive team.

New to that team is Dr. Matthew Hagan, MD, FACS, a board-certified plastic surgeon and Fellow of the American College of Surgeons with specialized training in aesthetic facial cosmetic surgery, including facelifts and rhinoplasty.

Complete dermatology services, including skin, cancer, full body exams and acne services are offered by provider Stacey Spehalski.

Scheduling a procedure can be scary, acknowledges Brian K. Reedy, MD, board-certified plastic surgeon. “People come in nervous, and they leave saying it was easier than they expected. We don’t rush consultations. We don’t pressure anyone. We listen, we educate and we help people make the decision that’s right for them.”

Berks Plastic Surgery is happy to welcome Dr. Matthew Hagan, MD, FACS, to the team!

THE FACE OF PEDIATRIC DENTISTRY

Dr. Beth Gratson

Dr. Michael Santarsiero

Pediatric Dentistry of Reading

Dr. Beth and Dr. Mike are dedicated to providing exceptional dental care in a fun, welcoming environment. As a child, Dr. Beth loved going to the dentist so much that while her friends wrote letters to Santa, she wrote to the Tooth Fairy. Dr. Mike is a Harry Potter fan and enjoys talking about magic and his favorite superheroes with patients.

Pediatric Dentistry of Reading provides cutting-edge services for patients from birth through age 21, offering everything from routine cleanings, white fillings and crowns to advanced laser tongue and lip releases. Designed to help children feel safe and comfortable, the office features interactive arcade machines, iPads and kids’ movies in the waiting room along with stickers, prizes and popsicles after each visit. Every aspect of the practice is centered on creating positive experiences while helping children build healthy dental habits that last a lifetime.

Schedule an appointment with Dr. Beth or Dr. Mike today!

THE FACE OF

CHIROPRACTIC

Core Health Chiropractic

Core Health Chiropractic has built something rare in Berks County: a place where the whole family belongs. From newborns to grandparents, every patient walks in and feels safe, heard and cared for.

Led by Dr. Sarah Balthaser, Dr. Jason Balthaser, Dr. Ariel Miller, Dr. Tyressa Savage and Dr. Matthew Weaver, the Core Health team brings together a wide range of skills under one roof. Their approach goes beyond the adjustment. By working alongside physical therapists, occupational therapists, massage therapists, acupuncturists, personal trainers and other providers, they make sure each patient gets complete, connected care.

Family wellness is at the heart of everything they do. Whether a child needs gentle, pediatric-focused care or a parent is managing a long-term health goal, Core Health meets every patient where they are.

Left to right: Dr. Ariel Miller (with Poppy), Dr. Tyressa Savage, Dr. Jason Balthaser, Dr. Matthew Weaver, Dr. Sarah Balthaser

THE FACE OF PERIODONTICS

Amanda Clemente, DMD, MS

Keystone Periodontal Group

Amanda Clemente, DMD, MS, a BoardCertified Periodontist and Implant Surgeon, took ownership of Keystone Periodontal Group in January of 2023, but she’s been working toward the goal for quite some time. She explains, “When I was in college, I volunteered at a free dental clinic and found myself looking forward to working with our periodontist the most.” The interest led to exploring the field further in dental school at Temple University and later attending a three-year periodontal residency program at the University of Pittsburgh, making her a Periodontal Specialist. The practice offers a full scope of periodontal therapy, treating gum recession, gummy smiles, periodontal disease, missing teeth, dental implant complications and more. Perhaps what Dr. Clemente is most proud of is the culture at Keystone Periodontal. She says, “We are a small practice offering a personalized touch. We want our patients to feel that they are like family in our office and to minimize the natural anxiety that occurs when visiting a dental office.”

THE FACE OF WELLNESS

Baja Beach Wellness

Those looking to discover the best version of themselves should head to the beach: Baja Beach Wellness, that is. Between its four locations in Berks, the 100 percent female-owned (and nearly entirely female-operated) business has invested more than $2 million to purchase the most state-of-the-art equipment, offering services including cryotherapy, red light therapy, infrared sauna pods, Wellfit advanced skin care treatments, Lipo Light body sculpting, LED facial red & blue light therapy, Versa Spa spray tan booths, custom airbrush spray tanning and five levels of sunbeds. Getting its start in 1994 as a tanning salon, the now wellness services business has been helping Berks Countians to look and feel their best for 32 years running. Stop in to see how services can aid in pain reduction, increasing mobility and more. A variety of memberships are available to make wellness accessible for all and start at less than $1 per day!

Back row, left to right: Taylor Hoffert, Megan Krüger, Lori Yeingst, Leann Morgan; Front row, left to right: Wendy Button, Bridget Holleran Coe, Amy Johnson.

THE FACE OF CLEAN

Ziva Cleaning Services

Ziva Cleaning Services started as a residential cleaning company, founded by Berks County residents Luis and Lisbel Deschamps with a simple belief: every space deserves to be treated with care. Over time, alongside their sons Eugene and Daniel, the Deschamps family expanded into the commercial sector — building the business they have today from the ground up, one client at a time.

Celebrating their 15-year anniversary in 2026, Ziva specializes in commercial janitorial services for medical facilities, corporate offices, retail spaces, warehouses and property management companies, including nightly and recurring janitorial cleaning, medicalgrade terminal cleaning, construction cleaning, restroom sanitation and customized cleaning programs tailored to each facility’s needs.

Guided by strong Christian beliefs, Ziva Cleaning Services offers 24/7 support and leverages technology to ensure quality. The entire team has embraced the Deschamps’ core values as their own and every member plays an important role. Looking for consistency you can count on and cleanliness you can see? Call on Ziva Cleaning Services to get the job done.

zivacleaning.com

Luis

and Lisbel Deschamps (front row) with sons Eugene and Daniel

THE FACE OF ICE CREAM

Sweet Ride Ice Cream

A day at the beach inspired an ice cream dream for Reading High grad Angie Farrell and her husband, Chris. She recalls, “We were sitting on the beach in Avalon on vacation, and this girl came up on her ice cream bike. Chris said, ‘We should get an ice cream bike!’ It was kind of a joke at the time, but when we came home, we couldn’t let it go.”

Today, Sweet Ride Ice Cream serves “super-premium” ice cream with a side of vintage, nostalgic aesthetic. The focus is on incredibly high-quality ingredients to deliver a richer, creamier scoop than the standard. The West Reading storefront offers 50 flavors in addition to custom sundaes, milkshakes, homemade waffles, ice cream pies, ice cream cupcakes and Oreo ice cream sandwiches.

Sweet Ride also offers mobile catering services with a fleet including that dreamed-of ice cream bike, an ice cream truck and a 20-foot mobile trailer, making everyone’s ice cream dreams come true.

542 Penn Avenue, West Reading 484.987.7338

sweetrideicecream.com

ORTHOPEDICS, SPORTS MEDICINE AND PHYSICAL THERAPY

Berks Ortho | Freedom Therapies

Berks Ortho (formerly Bone and Joint Care Center) provides comprehensive orthopedic care to help Berks County patients restore mobility and reduce pain. Our expert team, including Drs. Longenecker, McAlpine, Schumacher and Canner, offers advanced treatments such as trauma care, robotic-assisted joint replacement, revision surgery and specialized sports medicine.

Through a seamless partnership with Freedom Therapies led by Mike Lehr and Matt Sauer, we offer an exceptional continuum of care. From initial diagnosis and surgery to post-operative rehabilitation, our providers collaborate to ensure a direct path to recovery. Freedom Therapies provides highly personalized programs like spinal rehab, perioperative care and sports performance therapy.

Patients consistently praise our deeply supportive approach. They truly appreciate the reassurance from our physicians and the one-on-one encouragement from our therapists. Whether recovering from a complex surgery or seeking progress after struggling elsewhere, patients trust our dedicated team to help them regain independence and return to the activities they love.

301 S. 7th Avenue, Doctor’s Office Building, Ste. 3220, West Reading

Orthopedics: 484.628.2663 | berksortho.com

Physical Therapy: 484.334.2757 | berkspt.com

THE FACE OF PIZZA

Nonno Alby’s Wood Fire

For a pizza crafted with quality ingredients and cooked in an authentic wood-fired oven, look no further than Nonno Alby’s Wood Fire in West Reading.

Owner Massimo Grande grew up in the business, and it shows. He explains, “Thirteen years ago, my wife, Trisha Grande, my sister, Tina Cirandine, and my brother-in-law, Raffaele Cirandine, opened Nonno Alby’s and named it after my father, Albino, who had a major influence on my life with pizza.”

Not only does the friendly staff at Nonno Alby’s in West Reading serve up delicious woodfire pizza, wings, burgers and salads at the full-service spot offering wine and beer, but they are able to take the show on the road with their mobile pizza truck, catering family and business events.

701 Penn Avenue, West Reading 610.376.1011

nonnoalbyswoodfire.com

BERKS COUNTY REAL ESTATE

The Peter Heim Team | Keller Williams

Platinum Realty

For more than 40 years, Peter Heim has been helping homeowners navigate the process of buying and selling homes. As one of the top agents in Berks, Peter’s clients say his honest, caring, smart, communicative and client-focused personality is what keeps them coming back. Peter is joined by a competent team starting with his son, Chris, who shares an eagerness to help clients. Chris has become an expert at finding homes for buyers and finding buyers for sellers. With Chris, you’ll learn something and have fun doing it. Olivia Benek works handin-hand with other team members on listing and sales transactions. Team member Brendan Johnson has several years of experience and is known for his amazing client satisfaction. Rounding out the team is Valerie Rivera-Garcia. With a strong background in financial education, lending and client advocacy, she brings a unique advantage to both buyers and sellers moving in today’s market.

Reach out to The Peter Heim Team for all your real estate needs.

Left to right: Olivia Benek, Peter Heim, Chris Heim, Valerie Rivera-Garcia, Brendan Johnson
PHOTO COURTESY PETER HEIM

THE FACE OF TRAVEL

AAA Reading-Berks

It’s daunting to be the “face” of something. The first thing you notice about someone is their face. Is it friendly? Is it a face that makes you want to know the person better? Can it be trusted?

Trust is earned. Working with a AAA travel agent means you get the inside track from someone who has spent years building relationships within the industry. Studies have shown that working with an agent saves travelers more than three hours of time spent planning per trip.

Travel agents are known for their ability to put together the impossible — a vacation that fits needs, wants and budgets. And there’s the added security of an expert in your corner when things go awry.

Make an appointment to sit down with an agent at AAA Reading-Berks, 920 Van Reed Rd., Wyomissing. Office hours are Mon–Fri: 9am-5pm. Happy faces are what AAA Travel is all about.

Left to right, front row: Becca Samsel, Denise Calcagno, Tish Manwiller. Deb Behringer; Back row: Michele Andre, Chris Eberhart, Nicki Vandevort, Amy Kepner, Brenda Huey, Rose Fisher, Beth Chapin.

Turn static files into dynamic content formats.

Create a flipbook
Faces of Berks 2026 by Innovative Designs & Publishing, Inc. - Issuu