Berks First Fall 2025

FALL 2025

Berks County, PA, Government News & Services

A Fresh Coat for the Distelfink Bringing Mental Health Awareness to First Responders Our Strange and Storied Parks Una Nueva Capa de Pintura para el Distelfink Los votos individuales: tienen más peso en las elecciones locales

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CONTENTS

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Spotting Savings: The SET Mindset at Work in Berks County

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County 101 - Jail

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Bringing Mental Health Awareness to First Responders in Berks County

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12 Reading Regional Airport: Elevating Berks County’s Aviation Future

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Official Publication of the County of Berks, PA 633 Court Street, Reading, PA 19601 Commissioners’ Office: 610-478-6136 commissioners@berkspa.gov

www.berkspa.gov

14 Fighting Back Against a Hidden, Deadly Enemy 16 Our Strange and Storied Parks 18 A Fresh Coat for the Distelfink 20 Individual Votes: Speak Louder in Local Elections 22 Guide the Future of Library Service 24 Berks County Celebrates 80,000 Acres of Preserved Farmland 25 Municipal News 26 Career Opportunities 27 Una Nueva Capa de Pintura para el Distelfink 29 Los votos individuales: tienen más peso en las elecciones locales

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The County of Berks has exercised great care to ensure that the content of this magazine is accurate as of the date of publication.

Editorial content and advertising appearing in this publication should in no way be considered an endorsement from the County Commissioners or the County of Berks. The county assumes no liability for the accuracy of claims made by the advertisers. This publication was created with the intent to deliver useful county government news to the residents of Berks County. The County of Berks disclaims any and all liability and responsibility to any person or party, be they a reader, advertiser or consumer of this publication, for any consequences, actions, results taken or outcomes of anything done or omitted on the basis of reading information or reliance whether partly or solely on the contents of this publication and related website and products. All rights reserved. No portion of this publication may be reproduced electronically or in print without the expressed written consent of the publisher or editor.

2025 Commissioners Town Hall Meeting Schedule Wednesday, November 12, 2025 • 6:30p.m.

Muhlenberg Community Library 3612 Kutztown Road, Laureldale, 19605 Tuesday, January 13, 2026 • 6:30p.m.

Boone Area Library 129 N. Mill St., Birdsboro, 19508 Wednesday, February 11, 2026 • 6:30p.m.

Bethel-Tulpehocken Public Library 8601 Lancaster Avenue, Bethel, 19507 Tuesday, March 10, 2026 • 6:30p.m.

Robesonia Community Library 75-A South Brooke Street, Robesonia, 19551

COMMISSIONERS’

MESSAGE

Wednesday, April 8, 2026 • 6:30p.m.

Exeter Community Library 4569 Prestwick Drive, Reading, 19606 Tuesday, May 12, 2026 • 6:30p.m.

Boyertown Community Library 24 N. Reading Avenue Boyertown, 19512

(L to R) Berks County Commissioners Dante Santoni, Jr., Christian Leinbach, and Michael Rivera

Wednesday, September 16, 2026 • 6:30p.m.

Mifflin Community Library 6 Philadelphia Avenue, Shillington, 19607

Welcome to Berks 1st magazine! In these pages, we celebrate the people, places, and progress that make Berks County a wonderful place to live, work, and explore.

Wednesday, October 14, 2026 • 6:30p.m.

Wyomissing Public Library 9 Reading Blvd, Wyomissing, 19610

This issue shines a spotlight on the vital work of Crisis Intervention Training for first responders, a program that equips police officers, EMS personnel, and others with the tools to respond to mental health crises with empathy, skill, and care. We also mark a milestone in our community’s agricultural legacy—80,000 acres of Berks County farmland permanently preserved, ensuring that our rich farming heritage will endure for generations.

Wednesday, November 11, 2026 • 6:30p.m.

Reading Public Library-Northeast Branch 1348 North 11th Street, Reading, 19604

You’ll find a charming feature on the touch-up of the beloved Berks County Distelfink statue, a familiar symbol brought back to vibrant life by a skilled local artist. Our Parks Department shares a collection of strange and surprising stories from our county parks—proof that nature and history sometimes have a sense of humor. And at the Reading Regional Airport, we highlight impressive growth and development that is helping to expand opportunities for business and leisure travel alike. All this and more from our County Jail to our Library System to our Veterans Affairs Office. There are so many great things happening in Berks County!

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From preserving our land to preserving our stories, and from strengthening our emergency response to enhancing our infrastructure, these articles reflect the hard work and creativity that keep Berks County thriving. We hope you enjoy this issue and discover something new about the place we all call home.

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FE ATURE – Sav i ng s & E ff i c i enc y Te am

SPOTTING SAVINGS: THE SET MINDSET AT WORK IN BERKS COUNTY

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he Savings and Efficiency Team (SET) is a behindthe-scenes initiative making a big difference in how Berks County operates. Originally launched during the uncertainty of the COVID-19 pandemic, SET was created by the County Commissioners as a task force to help the county assess costs and prioritize spending in an unpredictable time.

Today, it has evolved into a standing team with a long-term mission: to streamline operations, increase collaboration across departments, and save taxpayer money.

SET’s ongoing mission is simple but powerful: to encourage all Berks County employees to examine how things are done, question routine practices, and speak up when there’s a better way. It’s about fostering a culture where new ideas are welcomed and small improvements add up to big savings.

The SET includes representatives from key areas like the courts, information systems, finance, and one of the row offices.

Early efforts included department-level meetings to identify inefficiencies and brainstorm solutions. The results have ranged from high-tech upgrades to common-sense fixes.

For example, thanks to SET’s input, the courts now use video conferencing, when appropriate, to conduct hearings between inmates and attorneys directly from the jail. This replaces the daily routine of transporting inmates to the courthouse—saving time, improving safety, and cutting costs.

Another SET initiative that is still in progress is integrating systems between the Recorder of Deeds, Assessment, and Mapping Departments. Previously, when a property was sold, each department would manually input the same information into different systems. SET is working to create a shared platform where one entry automatically updates across all three departments—minimizing duplicated effort and reducing the risk of human error.

Smaller but impactful changes include upgrading jail transport vehicles to more cost-effective models and digitizing the juror parking request process to free up staff time. Even toll savings came under review—switching to E-ZPass rather than using higher-rate methods. www.berkspa.gov

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CO U N TY 1 0 1

Berks County Jail Leadership

Jeffrey R. Smith, Warden Stephanie Smith, Deputy Warden of Treatment Bradley Roberts, Deputy Warden of Custody Franco Tassone, Deputy Warden of Operations

Mission

The Berks County Jail System is intended to establish a secure institutional environment that serves to provide protection and safety for the citizens, staff and the legally incarcerated of Berks County. This will be accomplished through the use of a costeffective organization and procedures that provide for security, social restoration and rehabilitation in the jail environment.

In a Nutshell…

We provide services aimed at preserving life, protecting property, and ensuring community safety. Our correctional staff maintain peace and public order within a secure and well-regulated environment. Crime is deterred through active supervision of inmates and the establishment and enforcement of procedures, schedules, and guidelines. All incidents are thoroughly investigated, and corrective actions are implemented to prevent the recurrence of unacceptable behavior.

We promote integrity and adherence to professional standards by investigating complaints against staff members. We also address the training needs of all employees to ensure a high level of proficiency. Furthermore, we provide educational, counseling, and vocational services in collaboration with county and community agencies. Our goal is to reduce recidivism, promote rehabilitation, instill personal responsibility, and foster successful reintegration into the community.

What Programs Do You Provide?

Substance Use Disorder/Co-Occurring Programs Outpatient Treatment This is a non-residential, licensed outpatient treatment program that provides a combination of psychotherapy and addiction/ mental health awareness education for individuals with an identified need.

Case Management Services Individuals in the Outpatient program will also receive case management services if they are interested. This consists of social determinants of health assessments which will determine any resources the individual may need for a more effective and productive transition back into the community.

Certified Recovery Specialist (CRS)/PEER Services Individuals in the Outpatient program will also receive Certified 4

Berks 1st - Keeping You Connected Fall2025

Recovery Specialist services if they are interested. Individuals will have the opportunity to meet with a CRS with lived experience to discuss topics about managing triggers, maintaining recovery upon release and supports that they can utilize if they are in need.

Early Recovery Support Group This post-treatment service provides necessary guidance, assistance, and encouragement to clients as they transition and become established in their personal recovery program.

Educational Programs Adult Basic Education (ABE) Individuals in this program are given instruction in basic reading and math.

General Educational Development 1&2 (GED) Individuals in this program are given instruction to prepare for the GED test. Participants who pass prep classes are able to take the GED test while incarcerated.

English as a Second Language (ESL) Oral and written English skills are emphasized in these classes.

High School Diploma Program Individuals in this program are given the opportunity to earn a high school diploma through their public school districts.

Individuals with a special education diagnosis are included in this program. Special education is offered to inmates who were previously diagnosed as needing special education services or who have an active Individual Education Plan (IEP).

Treatment Department Programs Evidence Based Cognitive Behavioral Programs: • Basic Cognitive Skills (Cognitive Behavioral Focus: This group addresses the criminogenic need of antisocial cognitions by helping participants understand self-defeating behaviors.

• Core Skills (Cognitive Behavioral Focus): This group addresses the criminogenic needs of antisocial cognitions as well as antisocial peers.

• Thinking for Good (Moral Reconation Therapy): MRT is a cognitive-behavioral counseling program that combines education and group counseling designed to foster moral development in treatment-resistant clients.

Offense Related Programs: • Sex Offender: The Sex Offender program has two main parts— Sex Offender Orientation and Sex Offender Treatment. The Sex Offender Orientation program is a psycho-educational program that explores the reasons why people resist treatment, helping participants to rethink resistance, and weighing the pros and cons of treatment. The Sex Offender Treatment program is a treatment program focusing on issues related to sexual offending behavior.

• Medical Assistance Applications: When inmates are sentenced, they are offered this service to have the application completed prior to release to the community.

What Else Would You Like to Make People Aware Of?

Individuals in our custody are here as a result of a court order.

The jail administration does not have the discretion to decide which individuals will be incarcerated here; we are obligated to adhere to the court’s directives.

The jail is operated at the county level and is not managed by the state Department of Corrections, which oversees state prisons. While the Department of Corrections provides some oversight for the certification of county jails, the primary responsibility for funding and managing these facilities rests with the county government. Additionally, there is oversight from the Prison Board, which is composed of seven elected county officials.

Accessing the Berks County Jail System

1287 County Welfare Road, Leesport, PA 19533 Phone: 610-208-4800 Website: www.berkspa.gov/departments/jail-system Follow us on Facebook: Berks County Jail

Family/Relationship/Self Programs: • Individual Counseling: Individual counseling is a program where individuals work on goals specified on their individual treatment plan during counseling sessions.

• Seeking Safety: This group is designed for people with substance abuse and trauma and this integrated treatment addresses both issues simultaneously using a cognitive behavioral approach.

Are There Other Services You Offer That You Wish More People Were Aware Of?

Inmate Services Inmate services the jail provides directly or through partnered community agencies: • PennDOT Driver’s License/ID Program: Incarcerated individuals who do not have valid photo ID are eligible to receive a duplicate DL/ID or voucher to obtain one in the community upon release at no cost to them.

• Medication Assisted Treatment (MAT): Incarcerated individuals who report an opioid use disorder are eligible for induction or continuation on FDA-approved medications to help manage their addiction as well as outpatient counseling services and case management.

Connecting Berks County to Addiction Resources Local Treatment and Recovery Resources Free NARCAN Kits Free Medication Lock Boxes Community and School Education Free Tobacco Cessation Classes

(610) 376-8669 cocaberks.org

www.berkspa.gov

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FE ATURE – Ment a l Hea lt h

BRINGING MENTAL HEALTH AWARENESS TO FIRST RESPONDERS IN BERKS COUNTY

By Jonathan Heintzman, Berks County Public Relations Officer

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he intersection between mental health and public safety can overlap at times. When they overlap, the training that a first responder has can mean the difference between a safe and controlled interaction with authorities and a situation that could escalate catastrophically. Berks County is taking a bold and strategic step forward to make sure that first responders have the training they need to help individuals with mental illness or developmental disabilities. A collaborative initiative known as Crisis Intervention Team (CIT) Training, grounded in the nationally recognized Memphis Model, is transforming how law enforcement and service providers engage with individuals experiencing mental health crises.

Kristy Belschwinder, Forensic Diversion Program Manager with Connections Work, is at the heart of this initiative in Berks County and leads the county’s implementation of the CIT training model. With a deep commitment to communitybased solutions and alternatives to the criminal justice system, Belschwinder and her team are redefining the role of police officers and other first responders on the front lines of mental health encounters. “I’m very proud and pleased,” says Berks County District Attorney John Adams. “I think Berks County is way ahead of the curve. This training has opened eyes and shed light on mental health—and on the very real challenges first responders face when dealing with individuals in crisis.”

Origins: The Memphis Model

The CIT model was born out of tragedy. In 1987, a young man with a mental illness was fatally shot by police in Memphis, Tennessee, after his mother called 911 during a mental health crisis. The community’s outcry led to a pioneering partnership between law enforcement, mental health professionals, advocates, and academics. Together, they created the first Crisis Intervention Team program to better equip officers to respond with deescalation tactics and compassion.

By 2008, the initiative had grown into CIT International, providing standardized guidance and fidelity to the Memphis Model’s core principles: specialized training for volunteer officers, strong community partnerships, and a focus on diverting individuals with mental illness away from incarceration and toward treatment.

Today, over 2,700 CIT programs exist nationwide, according to CIT International, including 40 counties across Pennsylvania.

In January 2024, Berks County launched its own CIT program, grounded in this proven structure but tailored to the needs of our local community.

A Local Launch Rooted in Collaboration

Berks County’s journey with CIT began quietly, with conversations between county personnel and Connections Work (www. connectionswork.org), and gained momentum when Belschwinder

DOUGLASS TOWNSHIP POLICE OFFICER ANDREW GADALETA Douglass Township Police Officer Andrew Gadaleta believes Berks County’s Crisis Intervention Training (CIT) is more than just another certification—it’s a lifeline for both officers and residents. As one of the first graduates of Berks County’s CIT program, Gadaleta credits the training with transforming how he approaches mental health crises.

“I learned more in a week about mental health, autism, and crisis response than I had in my entire career,” Gadaleta said. “It gave me tools I didn’t have—deescalation strategies, a better understanding of how to identify what someone is going through, and a network of resources I can tap into.”

Those tools became critical on January 1, when Gadaleta responded to a man perched on a rooftop, intent on taking his own life. While other officers discussed physical intervention, Gadaleta drew on his CIT training. He removed his vest and gun to build trust, climbed onto the frigid roof, and sat beside the young man, whose legs were turning blue in the cold.

“I told him, ‘I’m off the clock until you’re safe,’” Gadaleta recalled. Through patient conversation—probing gently about medication, drug use, and the impact his death would have on others—he earned the man’s trust. After nearly an hour, Gadaleta extended his hand. The man took it, climbing down to safety and voluntarily seeking help.

For his actions, Gadaleta received a Meritorious Service award. But he insists the real credit goes to the training.

“Before CIT, I might have been more aggressive, seen him as just another kid high on something,” he said.

“Now, I can slow things down, listen, and use what I’ve learned to save a life.” www.berkspa.gov

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FE ATURE – H om eless ness

ROBESON TOWNSHIP POLICE OFFICER JUSTIN SCHLOTTMAN Robeson Township Police Officer Justin Schlottman says Berks County’s Crisis Intervention Training (CIT) is not just another line on his résumé; it’s an essential tool for keeping residents safe and getting them the help they need.

As a patrolman, SWAT team negotiator, and former school resource officer, Schlottman was no stranger to people in crisis before entering Berks County’s first-ever CIT class in 2024. But the weeklong program gave him something he hadn’t had before: a deeper understanding of local mental health resources and the communication techniques needed to connect people to them.

“There were so many times during training I found myself saying, ‘I didn’t even know you existed,’” Schlottman said of the presenters and organizations introduced through CIT. “Now, I can give people real options instead of just sending them to the hospital, which for some feels like jail.”

Schlottman’s approach has had a measurable impact. In one case, he worked with local agencies to help a resident who had called police 47 times in three days. After discovering a recent medication change was triggering her distress, Schlottman coordinated with service providers to stabilize her care plan. Since then, her calls have stopped entirely.

The training also sharpened his de-escalation skills.

Through realistic role-play scenarios, reflective listening exercises, and firsthand discussions with families affected by mental illness, Schlottman says he’s better able to “sell” mental health support to those who might otherwise resist it.

“It’s not about being a counselor,” he said. “It’s about listening, understanding, and knowing who can help. CIT gives you the tools to do that—and in the end, it saves time, stress, and lives.”

joined Connections Work in 2023. The goal was to build and implement a CIT program with fidelity to the Memphis Model, rooted in practical, handson training for law enforcement. “Seed grant funding to get CIT started was secured from the PA Office of Mental Health and Substance Use Services through the County’s Office of Mental Health/Developmental Disabilities (MH/DD),” said Pam Seaman, Berks County MH/DD Program Administrator.

Seaman continued, adding this funding has allowed for dedicated staff time to coordinate the CIT program which includes training for first responders as well as building the critical relationships in the community between first responders, the behavioral health community and other essential partners that are needed to problem solve challenges.

Working with a CIT Steering Committee of law enforcement, mental health professionals, county stakeholders, and service providers, Belschwinder began to shape the program. The goals were ambitious: reduce jail admissions of people with mental illness, increase law enforcement’s understanding of mental health conditions, and foster lasting partnerships across agencies.

“It’s extremely important that our law enforcement be trained to de-escalate these situations,” says Adams. “Unfortunately, they are going to run into people with mental health problems more often than others—and during encounters with first responders those individuals are in a heightened state of hysteria or illness.”

“We wanted to reverse the pipeline,” Belschwinder explains. “Right now, most of our diversion referrals come from the jail. Our aim is to shift that—to have the majority of referrals come from police officers in the community, before people with mental illness end up in custody.”

Inside the 40-Hour Training

The core of the CIT model is a rigorous, immersive 40-hour training, offered twice yearly in January and May in partnership with Alvernia University.

The training is capped at 25 participants to preserve the intimacy and interactivity that are central to the program’s effectiveness.

Each weeklong session begins by grounding participants in the fundamentals of CIT: what it is, why it matters, and how it functions. From there, officers and community members receive extensive instruction in identifying and responding to mental health disorders, including co-occurring substance use conditions. A full day is dedicated to community site visits, giving participants direct exposure to local organizations such as Hope Rescue Mission, Holcomb Crisis Intervention, and the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) Berks County.

Perhaps the most powerful component is immersive scenario training, held in a hotel setting with trained actors and clinician coaches. Trainees enter simulated crisis situations without any prior knowledge of what they’ll encounter. They must navigate the encounter, attempt de-escalation, and afterward, debrief with coaches to reflect on what worked—and what didn’t.

“The training is very broad,” says Adams. “They go to providers and really get to experience some practical, real-life situations. That’s what makes it effective.”

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Another eye-opening activity is the Hearing Voices simulation. The simulation is a profound experience where participants complete tasks while hearing simulated auditory hallucinations through headphones. “It changes their entire understanding of what it’s like to live with a mental health condition,” says Belschwinder. “It builds empathy in a way lectures never could.”

Voluntary, Not Mandatory—By Design

An essential pillar of the CIT model is that participation is voluntary.

Participants self-select to attend the training, often because they’ve encountered mental health situations on the job and want more tools to respond effectively.

“This isn’t everyone’s niche,” says Belschwinder. “Some officers are better suited to other aspects of law enforcement, and that’s okay. But the ones who come through CIT tend to become champions at their departments.”

“Frankly, I’d like to see many more departments participate with many more of their officers,” adds Adams. “It’s all good. And the feedback I’ve gotten from officers has been overwhelmingly positive—even though it’s a weeklong training.”

Real-World Impacts: Bridging Systems

The effect of the training extends far beyond the classroom. CIT graduates often become their department’s go-to contacts for mental health-related calls. They build relationships with service providers and know how to connect individuals in crisis to the resources that can help—often preventing arrest or hospitalization altogether.

Connections Work provides officers with Rapid Referral Cards, allowing them to flag individuals for early intervention. “Sometimes the officer isn’t even responding to a crime,” says Belschwinder. “They just recognize that someone is struggling and they want to connect them to help before things escalate.”

“We’re seeing the first positive effects on the street,” says Adams. “The better trained our officers are to recognize and de-escalate a mental health crisis, the better the outcomes for everyone involved.”

He also emphasizes the importance of documentation. “What officers observe and record in their reports can have significant impact later on,” Adams explains. “I tell them—your observations might be the most accurate record of a person’s mental state in that moment.”

A Networked Future

To ensure CIT continues to grow, the CIT Steering Committee meets regularly to assess needs, identify challenges, and plan strategically. The steering committee is also exploring supplemental training modules, shorter de-escalation refreshers for officers who can’t commit to the full 40-hour course. “We’ve heard from departments that they want more— shorter sessions, more practical skills, more community involvement,” Belschwinder says. “We’re working to meet that demand.”

Expanding the program to include 911 dispatchers is another priority.

Dispatchers are often the first point of contact in a crisis, and properly

HAMBURG POLICE CHIEF ANTHONY KUKLINSKI Hamburg Police Chief Anthony Kuklinski believes Berks County’s Crisis Intervention Training (CIT) is a lifeline, both for officers and the community.

Kuklinski first encountered CIT through a directive from District Attorney John Adams encouraging county police departments to explore the program. Curious about its impact, he sent an officer to attend the weeklong training and, after hearing how transformative it was, decided to experience it himself. “I needed to see handson as the administrator for the agency what the value was to this program,” he said. The experience proved invaluable, prompting him to commit to making Hamburg’s entire department CITcertified by 2026.

The training, which combines classroom sessions, facility visits, and realistic roleplay scenarios, focuses not on turning officers into mental health professionals, but on teaching them how to deescalate crises and connect people with the right help. One of the most eye-opening exercises, Kuklinski recalled, was the “Hearing Voices” simulation. “It gave us a bird’s-eye view of exactly what people with certain mental health afflictions live with every day. It built true empathy,” he said.

Since his training, Kuklinski has used CIT principles to defuse volatile situations, including a recent case involving a juvenile in the middle of a manic episode. Using de-escalation techniques and CIT’s network of mental health resources, he helped stabilize the teen, secured services for her family, and coordinated with the local school district for ongoing support. “Without CIT, this could have been just a quick assessment and release,” he said.

“Instead, it became a pathway to lasting help.”

For Kuklinski, CIT is now essential. “It’s another tool on the belt,” he said. “The goal is simple: keep people in crisis out of the criminal justice system and get them to the care they need.” www.berkspa.gov

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coding a call for a CIT-trained officer could dramatically change the outcome.

“The city has social workers who go out with police,” notes Adams, “but overall, it’s safer and more realistic to train officers directly.

They’re the ones who are there first, and some of these situations can be dangerous.”

COMBATTING THE STIGMA OF MENTAL ILLNESS Combatting the stigma of mental illness is essential, not just for individuals in crisis, but for communities at large.

Too often, people facing psychiatric challenges are blamed, marginalized, or disposed to punitive solutions. Stigma hinders access to care, discourages people from seeking help, and perpetuates myths. Breaking down stigma requires not only awareness, but also practical, community-based responses grounded in empathy and respect.

That’s where Crisis Intervention Training (CIT) comes in. Inspired by the original Memphis Crisis Intervention Team program, CIT equips law enforcement and first responders with about 40 hours of training in de-escalation, mental health education, and community collaboration. Research suggests that CIT increases officer confidence, reduces injuries, and significantly boosts diversion from arrest to mental health services. Instead of treating mental illness as criminal behavior, CIT promotes understanding, connection, and safe resolution.

In Berks County, Pennsylvania, CIT’s impact extends beyond improved outcomes and actively tackles stigma.

Pamela Seaman, Administrator for the Berks County Department of Mental Health & Developmental Disabilities, explained during a conference in June, 10

“CIT is often thought of as the training for first responders but it’s so much more than that. It’s also about reducing stigma and building an effective crisis response system that pulls together to better serve individuals with behavioral health concerns when they cross paths with the criminal justice system.”

Seaman underlines that CIT doesn’t simply teach protocol; it fosters a shift in mindset. In Berks County, the program was launched in January 2024 and has since trained dozens of officers, first responders, and behavioral health professionals in joint scenarios and collaborative interventions.

By integrating law enforcement with mental health experts, CIT builds bridges by encouraging officers to see beyond behavior to human need.

This encourages individuals in crisis to be treated with dignity and directed toward care, not incarceration.

Reducing stigma isn’t optional; it’s foundational. CIT based on the Memphis Model offers a proven approach: it reshapes how responders view mental illness, reinforces the value of collaboration, and ensures people in crisis are met with empathy, not arrest.

As Pamela Seaman affirms, it’s about building systems that serve rather than punish and changing attitudes every step of the way.

Berks 1st - Keeping You Connected Fall2025

What Success Looks Like

For Belschwinder and the CIT team, success isn’t measured only in statistics, it’s measured in lives changed.

“Success isn’t just fewer incidents—it’s better responses,” says DA Adams. “We can’t always prevent a crisis, but we can train officers to respond with the tools and knowledge that help de-escalate it. That’s the real win.”

Still in its infancy, Berks County’s CIT program has trained nearly 80 participants in just four sessions. And yet, its impact is already being felt on the streets, in courtrooms, and in the lives of vulnerable residents across the county.

Looking Ahead

As the program matures, the hope is that CIT will become embedded in the culture of policing and public safety in Berks County. With growing interest, more departments joining in, and a strong foundation of partnerships, that future seems not only possible—but inevitable.

“There’s this moment in training,” Belschwinder says, “when officers say, ‘Why weren’t we doing this already?’ And that’s when I know it’s working.”

“We’ve been blessed,” says Adams. “We haven’t had a tragedy here, but that could change in a second. This training helps make sure that if a crisis occurs, our officers are ready to respond the right way.”

In a time of complex challenges and rising needs, Berks County is proving that compassion, connection, and collaboration are not just ideals—they’re practical strategies for a safer, healthier community.

WESTERN BERKS EMT DENISE KLAHR Western Berks EMT Denise Klahr was drawn to Berks County’s Crisis Intervention Training (CIT) by her deep interest in behavioral health.

Klahr signed up for the weeklong training after seeing it advertised through Connections Work, investing her own time to sharpen skills she felt were essential for today’s emergency responders.

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“The training gives you a foundation of knowledge,” Klahr explained. “It doesn’t make you a mental health professional, but it helps you recognize what someone might be experiencing, and how to approach it so the situation doesn’t escalate.”

CIT’s role-play exercises and “Hearing Voices” simulation were especially impactful for Klahr, preparing her to interact calmly with patients who might otherwise intimidate or unsettle even seasoned responders. “Before this, I was nervous about asking questions when someone was hearing voices,” she said. “Now I can sit with them, ask the right questions, and help them explain what they’re experiencing.”

PHOTO CREDIT: @kristin.with.an.eye

Since completing CIT, Klahr has used those tools in the field. On one call involving a suicidal patient, she drew on de-escalation strategies to lead a calm, productive interaction. On another, she helped defuse tensions during a domestic incident, guiding a recently rehabilitated patient toward supportive services rather than an unnecessary hospital trip.

While Klahr acknowledges the curriculum leans heavily toward law enforcement, she believes every discipline in emergency services could benefit.

“Our community is facing a growing mental health crisis. It’s worth the investment to make sure we’re prepared,” she said. “Even if you have to take it on your own time, the training adds tools to your toolbox that help you better serve the people we encounter every day.”

www.berkspa.gov

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FE ATURE – Ai r p o r t

READING REGIONAL AIRPORT: Elevating Berks County’s Aviation Future

By Keilly Kirkpatrick, Marketing and Event Coordinator, Reading Regional Airport Authority

R

eading Regional Airport, officially known as General Carl A. Spaatz Field, is undergoing a bold and exciting transformation that is redefining its role in Berks County and beyond. With the successful launch of its own Fixed-Base Operator (FBO), Reading Aviation, the airport has embraced a unified vision focused on customer satisfaction, economic growth, and operational excellence.

The Reading Regional Airport Authority (RRAA) made a strategic move to consolidate all FBO operations under its own management, acquiring the assets of previous private operators and officially launching Reading Aviation in January 2024. This transition was pivotal. As the sole FBO, Reading Aviation has been able to streamline service delivery, standardize procedures, and modernize facilities, creating a consistent and elevated experience for pilots, passengers, and corporate clients alike.

Now in its second year, Reading Aviation continues to post strong results. The 2024 annual audit conducted by Baker Tilly showed positive financial performance even with just nine months of FBO operations. Fuel sales and service revenue have increased significantly from year one, and the FBO has quickly become a reliable contributor to the airport’s operating income. Major facility renovations were completed in early 2025, including a fully modernized terminal with upgraded lounges, snooze rooms, meeting spaces, and new crew amenities. These improvements have been well received by guests and support the airport’s goal of attracting more visiting and corporate traffic.

Customer satisfaction remains at the heart of Reading Aviation’s mission. The FBO offers a comprehensive range of services including Jet A, Jet A+, and 100LL fueling, Ground Power Unit support, towing, de-icing, lavatory servicing, and hangar accommodations for aircraft up to a common, mid-sized jet.

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Berks 1st - Keeping You Connected Fall2025

Additional amenities such as crew cars, rental vehicles, catering, laundry, and competitive fuel pricing make the airport a preferred choice for operators seeking alternatives to congested metro airfields. Through a continued partnership with Avfuel Corporation, the FBO provides loyalty programs and ATA-103-compliant fueling led by FAA-trained personnel.

Transparency and financial independence are key benefits of the public FBO model. Rates and policies are posted online, enabling more informed decision-making for customers and tenants. Within its first three quarters of operation, the FBO generated sufficient revenue to cover all expenses, including debt service, while maintaining a positive balance. This was achieved without relying on local tax support, which underscores the airport’s self-sustaining financial structure. Going forward, the FBO will continue to focus on improving efficiency, elevating the customer experience, and expanding its client base.

Tenant growth has mirrored the airport’s overall success. In 2025, longtime tenant Quest Diagnostics renewed its lease for a 15-year term with renewal options, reaffirming its commitment to RDG as a hub for regional medical transport. In a major milestone, the airport also completed a long-term agreement with NetJets (www.netjets.com) in May 2025. The global leader in fractional aircraft ownership is planning a large-scale maintenance hub at Reading Regional Airport, with operations expected to begin in early 2026. NetJets will also invest capital into facility improvements and workforce development, bringing increased flight activity, fuel sales, and job creation to the region.

To support this expansion, RRAA is advancing a significant hangar development project. The plan includes three new hangars: one 24,000-square-foot corporate hangar and two 15,000-squarefoot facilities designed to meet the needs of both existing and incoming operators. The project is targeting completion in 2026 and will play a key role in strengthening RDG’s infrastructure.

Additionally, RRAA is actively in discussions with other developers and aviation businesses interested in establishing a presence at the field.

Beyond infrastructure and aviation services, Reading Regional Airport remains a critical economic force in Berks County. The airport contributes an estimated $78 million annually to the local economy through job creation, aviation commerce, vendor partnerships, and tourism. Events on property such as the Reading Aviation Expo and the WWII Weekend Air Show continue to draw thousands of visitors. These events further support retail, hospitality, and small businesses in the region.

The airport also maintains a strong commitment to workforce development. Through partnerships with local school districts, RDG offers internships and career exploration programs that introduce students to fields in aircraft maintenance, piloting, and airport operations. These initiatives are helping build a skilled talent pipeline while strengthening the airport’s connection to the community it serves.

Looking ahead, Reading Regional Airport is exploring opportunities to reintroduce commercial passenger service. The long-term goal is to secure scheduled service that connects Berks County with key regional destinations. Until then, the airport will continue to build on its core strength as Pennsylvania’s leading general aviation hub.

None of this progress would have been possible without the RRAA’s strategic decision to consolidate all FBO services under the Reading Aviation brand. This shift enabled a higher level of coordination, improved service quality, and greater financial efficiency. It created a strong foundation for the airport’s growth by empowering RDG to pursue ambitious goals, attract nationally recognized tenants, and make significant investments in both infrastructure and workforce development. Importantly, all of this has been achieved while maintaining fiscal independence.

Reading Regional Airport is more than just a place to take off and land. It is a growing platform for business development, workforce opportunity, and community pride. With Reading Aviation leading the way, RDG is charting a bold course toward long-term growth, innovation, and community impact.

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13

FE ATURE – Ve t era ns Af fa i rs

FIGHTING BACK AGAINST A HIDDEN, DEADLY ENEMY

By Lt. Col. Jay Ostrich, Director, Berks County Veterans Affairs

I

magine you come under attack by gunfire, rockets or mortars; what would you do? If you’re a brave American Soldier, Sailor, Airman or Marine overseas, your training and instincts would kick in and you’d immediately seek cover, return fire, and assess the situation to best determine your best course of action. You might then call for fire support, move out to better location, or maybe just hunker down and suppress fire.

But what happens when those troops are back home here in Berks County, out of uniform, but still under attack daily by unseen fire that is proving to be just as deadly? Where do they go, what do they do, what’s the standard operating procedure?

Unlike the combat zone, some of them just sit and take it, choosing to live with debilitating effects of Post Traumatic Stress Disorder/Injury, anxiety and depression.

The consequences of such attacks have proven to be more deadly than war itself.

Consider that during the Global War on Terrorism from 2001 to 2021, 7,085 Americans were killed in action. But during that same 20 years, a study by the US Department of Veterans Affairs found that more than 140,000 of our servicemembers died by suicide.

And if you don’t think it happens here in Berks, the latest statistics from the Berks Coroner tell a different story, as six of our 14

Veterans took their lives in the first five months of 2025, accounting for more than 20 percent of all suicides here despite being just 4.5 percent of the population.

a first-of-its-kind, bi-weekly, veterans’ spouses and dependents support group at the Etchberger Veterans Service Center at 20 Commerce Drive, Wyomissing.

Heartbreaking. Tragic. And thoroughly unacceptable.

This unique partnership comes on the heels of BCVA becoming the first county veterans service office in Pennsylvania to offer an on-site mental health therapist to help veterans with their mental health needs.

Added to the suicide epidemic are those Veterans combatting mental health and the consequences of avoiding help, like self-medication through alcohol and drugs, increased rates of domestic violence, criminal charges, unemployment and underemployment; the crisis to help our heroes is undeniable.

Status quo is not an option. It’s past time to fight back.

To combat the unprecedented increase in Berks veteran PTSD cases and the continuing veteran suicide epidemic, the Berks County Veterans Affairs (BCVA) office is partnering with several community mental health and wellness practitioners to offer programs and therapies aimed at connecting veterans and their families to a community that supports their overall wellbeing.

The Berks County Board of Commissioners approved a partnership with NAMI Berks County, an affiliate of the National Alliance on Mental Illness, the nation’s largest grassroots mental health organization.

This partnership will hold a bi-weekly, veteran peer-to-peer support group and

Berks 1st - Keeping You Connected Fall2025

“The love and support in these groups allows all to feel safe and empowered to openly discuss the challenges that each of them goes through each day,” said Cindy Quinter, NAMI Berks executive director.

This will be the first family support group in Berks County designed specifically to address the challenges of living with a veteran surviving with PTSD. “The NAMI Veterans Connection Peer support group model is a great way to connect with others who are suffering the same as you and understand your suffering and are willing to help,” said Vito Granieri, NAMI Berks office manager. “Connecting veterans with each other to talk about their experiences and their mental health challenges will allow each participant to grow and learn to manage the trauma that each of them goes through.”

No one feels the impact of the veteran mental health crisis as deeply as their families.

“The NAMI Veteran Family Support group is a powerful asset showing those who support a veteran that they are not alone, that their struggles are real, and that there is hope,” added Quinter.

BCVA is also proud to partner with Mette Gleason Nature Therapy and Berks County Parks and Recreation Department to offer monthly nature walks, a proven therapeutic technique that helps veterans practice the benefits of slowing down to take in nature. The program is a meditative guided walk, where veterans will be invited to experience the natural environment at various Berks County parks.

Mette Gleason, a Berks resident and certified guide with the Association of Nature and Forest Therapy, has designed the program to help veterans connect to the transformative power of simply being present in nature.

The monthly nature walks are free of charge to Berks veterans. The last one for the

season is scheduled on Sunday, November 2 at Angora Fruit Farm, 502 Angora Road, Reading, 19606, starting at 9 am.

are designed to connect, encourage, and support participants using a structured group model.

The first NAMI/BCVA Veteran Family Support Group meeting will be held every first and third Tuesday of the month, and the first Veterans Connection Support Group will be held every first and third Wednesday at the Etchberger Center at 20 Commerce Drive in Spring Township.

Free of charge and confidential, the groups will be led by trained veterans who are also on the road to healing, and

Ultimately, it’s time our veterans fight back against the unseen enemy. Whether it’s walks, talks, or therapy, BCVA remains steadfast in its mission to serve those who have served. These new partnerships and programs are a testament to Berks County’s ongoing commitment to connect our veterans and those who love them with a community eager to work toward veterans’ optimal wellbeing.

TRUSTED SERVICE. FAMILIAR FACES. secv.com

www.berkspa.gov

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FE ATURE – Pa r k s & Rec rea t i o n

OUR STRANGE AND STORIED PARKS

Exploring the Unique Stories of Berks County’s Parks

By Jessica Chernich, Historic Resources Supervisor, Berks County Parks & Recreation Department

O

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ctober is the best time of the year to explore the various County Parks. The heat of the summer is in the past and the trees are beginning to show off the reds and yellows of autumn. However, lurking behind that natural beauty are some bizarre tales that set our Parks apart.

that leads from the blacksmith shop forge is built at a curious angle. Old buildings often sport these ‘witches crooks’ chimneys.

Medieval legend had it that witches could only fly in a straight line, so a chimney was built with a deliberate angle to keep witches from entering a home.

We begin our journey at the Berks County Heritage Center­—the historic park of the County park system. Visitors to the Gruber Wagon Works can attest to the variety of surprising features and unique artifacts remaining inside. The publicly inaccessible attic of Wagon Works houses a feature that goes unseen—a chimney

The Wagon Works had little concern for witches, but they did have concerns about having a strong draft, preventing water from leaking into the building, and overall building aesthetics. Taller chimneys that exit at the peak of a roof create a draft that pulls smoke and dangerous gases out and pulls in the oxygen necessary to keep a fire hot. A chimney at the peak also allows for water to be naturally drawn away from the stack without having to install a barrier. It also looks nice and symmetrical.

If a chimney was not started underneath the peak of a roof, masons would hide a “witches crook” in the attic to tilt it towards the peak.

Berks 1st - Keeping You Connected Fall2025

The Heritage Center not only has a cemetery on site, but it also boasts a covered bridge with a bizarre ghost story. Many covered bridges share the trope of a “crybaby bridge,” an urban legend in which a baby’s cry is heard from the bridge. Wertz’s covered bridge has no such stories associated with it, but in the early 1900s travelers attempting to cross the bridge saw ghostly shapes on the bridge by the light of their wagon lanterns. With their horses scared to go any farther, many travelers began spreading the story of ‘the haunted bridge.’ One brave soul finally decided to investigate and as he travelled farther into the bridge, his lantern highlighted the not-so-ghostly face of a cow, thought to have escaped from a nearby farm.

If we travel down the Union Canal towpath trail, we come to the infamous lock 49E which local Berks Countians recognize as the location where Louisa Bissinger and her three children tragically died. Over the years, there have been a few accounts of their ghostly shapes still on the trail.

Our last stop on our weird and wonderful journey is at Angora Fruit Farm, which is located mere minutes from Antietam Lake on Mt. Penn. Angora operated for many years as a fruit farm, and its final owner, Alan D. Roth, operated it from 1976 until it was sold to the County in 2013. Apples were not the only thing at the fruit farm. Alan owned a black bear named Bandit, and Bandit lived in a cage complete with Courtesy of the Reading Eagle a stone house for hibernation.

On occasion, rumors would spread that the bear had gotten loose. Sometimes it was found to be a wild bear that had wandered onto the mountain, but one story notes that Bandit did manage to escape, only to be found several hundred yards away fast asleep.

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Yes, October is a wonderful time to explore our parks, and staff are always looking for ways to tell you these stories and many more. Join us for a Halloween Hike of the Union Canal Towpath Trail on October 24.

For more information on any Berks County Parks & Recreation programs check out website, www.berkspa.gov/parks, or follow us on Facebook @berkscountyparks. Registration for any programs can be made on our RecDesk page- https://countyofberks.recdesk. com/Community/Program.

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17

FE ATURE – D i s t elfi nk

A FRESH COAT FOR THE DISTELFINK – Berks County Icon

By Jonathan Heintzman, Berks County Public Relations Officer

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Berks 1st - Keeping You Connected Fall2025

T

he Berks County Heritage Center’s most whimsical resident— the bright, towering Distelfink statue—recently received a fresh burst of color thanks to Pennsylvania Dutch artwork expert and painter Eric Claypoole. A master of traditional hex sign and barn star artistry, Claypoole has restored the beloved bird to its vibrant glory, ensuring it continues to welcome visitors as a symbol of good fortune and happiness for years to come.

The Distelfink, a stylized goldfinch long associated with Pennsylvania Dutch culture, was first created in 1984 by sculptor Ramon Lago and painted by members of the Berks Guild of Craftsmen. Among those original artisans was Eric’s father, John P. “Johnny” Claypoole, who was part of the guild and helped bring the iconic bird to life.

The Distelfink quickly became a fixture at the Heritage Center, but time and the elements gradually dulled its colors.

Claypoole, who grew up immersed in Pennsylvania Dutch folk art, first repainted the Distelfink in 2016. This past May, he was called back once again to give the six-foot-high, twelve-footlong sculpture new life. “It had faded over time, and moss was starting to grow on top of it,” Claypoole explained. “I cleaned it all up, put on a white base coat, and then we started fresh. It took several weekends and a lot of paint, but it was a fun job.”

Assisting Claypoole were Patrick Donmoyer, director of the Pennsylvania German Cultural Heritage Center at Kutztown University, and fellow artist Andy Shirk. Together, the team carefully repainted the statue, retaining its traditional patterns and bold, cheerful hues. “The designs are basically the same,” Claypoole said. “We made some minor adjustments, but the wings, the colors, and the overall feel remain true to the original.”

The renovation project received a $2,200 donation from the PA Americana Region. In addition to the painting, Penn State Extension Master Gardeners reestablished an heirloom dye garden around the based of the sculpture and Dane Clay repaired the Distelfink’s concrete base/stand.

For Claypoole, the work is more than just a job; it’s a calling.

The son of a renowned hex sign painter, he learned the trade as a child, working alongside his father and carrying on a tradition that connects deeply to the region’s history. Over the past five decades, Claypoole has painted or restored more than 120 barn stars and hex signs, shipping his artwork across the United States and even to over 20 countries. Though he’s still a full-time restoration carpenter, he plans to dedicate his retirement entirely to painting.

The Distelfink restoration represents more than routine maintenance. It’s a preservation of cultural identity. It is a vivid reminder of the artistry and symbolism that runs through Berks County’s Pennsylvania Dutch heritage. With its renewed coat of bright yellows, reds, and greens, the Distelfink once again stands as a beacon of joy and tradition at the Heritage Center, much to the delight of locals and visitors alike. www.berkspa.gov

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FE ATURE – E lec t i o ns

INDIVIDUAL VOTES

Speak Louder in Local Elections

While it can be easy to brush off elections beyond presidential years, the individuals elected to local offices hold the power to directly influence the policies that affect daily life. Local leaders help to shape the community, making decisions about public safety, education, taxes and more. Yet, while 211,000 Berks County residents made voting a priority for the 2024 Presidential Election, only 47,000 cast ballots during the Municipal Primary this past spring. And with fewer voters in the mix, the weight of each vote becomes amplified.

On the Ballot This 2025 Municipal Election ballot includes races ranging from statewide judge positions to precinct-level poll workers. Since there are so many local races, each precinct’s ballot is different and unique to that voting district. Candidates will appear on the ballot based on the results from the primary, with Democratic candidates listed first because the current governor is Democrat.

Low turnout also increases the chances for tie races. When a race ends with two candidates receiving the same number of votes, the winner is determined by luck of the draw. In Berks, candidates pull a numbered ball from a bag, similar to the process used to determine ballot order. The candidate who draws the lowest number is then deemed the winner.

Ballots in Berks County will include the following offices: • Judge of the Superior Court of Pennsylvania • Judge of the Commonwealth Court of Pennsylvania • Judge of the Court of Common Pleas, 23rd Judicial District, Berks County • County Treasurer • County Coroner • County Prothonotary • County Sheriff • Magisterial District Judge º District 23-1-06 (serving Laureldale Borough and Muhlenberg Township) º District 23-2-04 (serving Cumru Township and Kenhorst, Mohnton & Shillington Boroughs) • City of Reading: º Council President º City Council – Districts 1, 4 and 5 • School Directors • Municipal Offices º Borough Mayors º Borough Council Members º Township Commissioners 1st Class º Township Supervisors 2nd Class º Municipal Tax Collectors º Municipal Auditors • Elected Poll Workers º Judges of Election º Inspectors of Election

In contests with no official candidates, an individual can win a position in the fall with a single write-in vote. This typically

Once finalized, sample ballots for each precinct will be available on our website: www.berkspa.gov/elections.

In local races, a handful of votes can determine who wins. During the recent municipal primary on May 20, a single vote decided which candidate got the final Democratic spot in the Reading School Board race. Other races, like the Democratic candidate for Reading City Council President and the Republican candidate for Magisterial District Judge 23-1-06, were determined by less than 10 votes.

Low turnout has become the norm for municipal election years, with an average of 19 percent turnout in municipal primaries in Berks over the last two decades. The November elections those years, when the officeholders are chosen, didn’t see much of a spike with an average of 26 percent. That means most local races are decided by only a fourth of registered voters and therefore may not accurately represent the interests of the larger community.

Low turnout makes every vote cast crucial and can allow a small group of voters to have an outsized influence on the end results.

Ties and single vote winners

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By: Stephanie Nojiri, Assistant Director, Office of Election Services

Berks 1st - Keeping You Connected Fall2025

happens with lesser-known or sought-after positions, like township auditors and poll workers.

The right to vote is one of the most powerful tools residents hold to help shape the future of their community. Don’t miss out on that opportunity by making a plan to vote in the Municipal Election on November 4, when one vote could make all the difference.

Important Dates for the 2025 Municipal Election Last day to register to vote: Oct. 20 Register to vote at www.vote.pa.gov/register.

Last day to apply for a mail-in or absentee ballot: Oct. 28 Apply for a mail-in or absentee ballot at www.vote.pa.gov/ apply-mail-in.

All voted mail-in and absentee ballots must be received by the Berks County Office of Election Services by 8 p.m. on Election Day to be counted. Ballots can be sent via mail or dropped off in the office or one of the county’s drop boxes.

Election Day: Nov. 4 Polls open 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. Find your polling place at www.vote.pa.gov/polls.

Judge Retention Questions The 2025 Municipal Election ballot also features eight judge retention questions — three for the Supreme Court of Pennsylvania, one for the Superior Court of Pennsylvania, one for the Commonwealth Court of Pennsylvania and three for the Court of Common Pleas in Berks County.

Judges are initially elected to serve 10-year terms. When that term is up, the judge must seek to retain the position through a retention question. Voters are given the option to retain the judge for another 10 years by voting “Yes” or “No.” The following judges will be listed for retention on the ballot: • Christine Donohue (Supreme Court) • Kevin M. Dougherty (Supreme Court) • David Wecht (Supreme Court) • Alice Beck Dubow (Superior Court) • Michael H. Wojcik (Commonwealth Court) • Pat Barrett (Court of Common Pleas) • Eleni Dimitriou Geishauser (Court of Common Pleas) • Jim Lillis (Court of Common Pleas) www.berkspa.gov

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FE ATURE – Li bra r y Ser v i ces

GUIDE THE FUTURE OF LIBRARY SERVICE

By Emily Montagna, Community Relations Coordinator, Berks County Public Libraries

T

he Berks County Public Libraries System (BCPL) is seeking public input as it begins to develop its next strategic plan. If you have not yet completed the community survey, you still have time to share your comments before the October 31 deadline.

Having served its member libraries and Berks County residents since its creation in 1986, the Library System offers consolidated support services to strengthen resources among its 23 member library locations throughout the county. This includes providing technology support, outreach initiatives, and community partnerships among other services.

The BCPL System spearheaded several community-driven projects over the past few years, including the establishment of 22

the Accessibility & Supportive Learning Collection—a curated group of games and activities to support young learners with impairments or adaptive learning needs—installment of mobile printing software within libraries, and most recently the countywide partnership with local businesses for the Show Your Library Card and Save initiative.

The Library System and its seven-member Advisory Board look to finalize its next strategic plan by addressing topics that are most important to the community they serve—both library patrons and non-cardholders.

“While our office doesn’t serve the same role as a traditional library, we can help provide a larger scope of resources to System members, and in turn, the public,” said

Berks 1st - Keeping You Connected Fall2025

System Administrator Stephanie Williams.

“This is a community survey. We’re looking to hear from everyone in our local area, whether you currently use the library or not. Our goal is to better align our resources with community needs and interests.”

Survey responders will have the opportunity to share their views on topics like: • Current services/resources • Improvements to library spaces • Technology solutions • Funding sources • Preferred communication methods Additional space is provided to offer suggestions and general comments for consideration. The survey will remain open until October 31 and is available to complete online at www.berkslibraries.org/ survey or in paper form at any of the 23 BCPL member locations.

Top Circulating Print Titles

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1,836,722 Total Circulation of Library Materials

Children 2024 HIGHLIGHTS

Berks County libraries saved residents over

digital & $28,759,400 printinmaterials

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2024 HIGHLIGHTS 954,463 Library Visitors

36,506 954,463 Crates Library Visitors Delivered 36,506 248,805 Digital Downloads

Crates Delivered

248,805 Digital Downloads

109,726 Reference Questions Answered 109,726 Reference Questions Answered

525,243 Website Sessions 525,243 Website Sessions

8,645 Library Programs

196,383 Attendees

8,645 Library Programs

196,383 Attendees Top Circulating Print Titles

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Teen

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1,836,722 TotalTop Circulating Circulation of Print Titles Library Materials 1,836,722 Total Circulation of in digital & Library Materials print materials

Berks County libraries saved over Adultresidents Teen

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Berks County libraries saved residents over

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www.berkspa.gov

23

FE ATURE – Ag r i c u lt u re

Berks County Celebrates

80,000 ACRES OF PRESERVED FARMLAND

By Amanda Burkard-Sell, Berks County Department of Agriculture

I

n June, the State Board of Farmland Preservation approved the preservation of three Berks County farms, including the Meadow Glen Farm LLC, a 134.6-acre crop farm in Windsor Township. This farm brought Berks County over the threshold of 80,000 total acres of preserved farmland.

continue to have a strong agricultural industry that currently contributes over $1 billion annually to the economy. Forever Farms guarantee a secure local food supply, the continuation of our rich agricultural heritage, and the scenic environment that makes Berks County such a wonderful place to live.

Berks County farmland is preserved through a county and state partnership, permitted by state law to create a method to place perpetual easements on farmland. This purchase of land development rights assures that there will always be land available for agriculture in Pennsylvania and Berks County.

The BCALPB and the Berks County Department of Agriculture celebrated this 80K-acre milestone in preservation on June 18 with a banquet and baseball game at the Redner’s Event Center at the First Energy Stadium. Sponsorship from the County of Berks and generous private donors ensured a memorable night.

Berks County began its agricultural conservation easement program in 1989, with the creation of the Agricultural Land Preservation Board (BCALPB), though the groundwork really began in the mid 1980s through the Berks County Chamber of Commerce Agri-Business committee, which encouraged municipalities to establish Agricultural Security Areas and Agriculture Zoning. The BCALPB preserved the first farm in 1990. Now, 35 years later, over 840 farms and 80,000 acres have been permanently protected.

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As a result of these efforts, which are funded through taxpayer investments, Berks County is a leader in the state and second in the nation for preserved farmland. In addition to the more than $180 million in support received from federal, state, and county funds, preserved farm owners have also contributed an additional $42 million in easement value to the program. It is through the dedication of our farmers and farm families that the program has been so successful.

Preserved farm owners, guests, and sponsors were treated to charcuterie by Dietrich’s Meats, a catered meal, favors created

by Bailey’s Wood Products and Unique Snacks, and centerpiece baskets filled with local Ag products. Speakers included PA Secretary of Agriculture, Russell Redding, State Senator Judy Schwank, and the County Commissioners. Cupcakes from Kim’s Bakery and Way-Har ice cream capped off the event.

Agriculture was also the highlight of the baseball game that evening, with a giveaway sponsored by the County of Berks, Bernie Morrisey Insurance, Clemens Food Group, Joe Jurgielewicz & Son, Ltd., SSM Group, and Tompkins Bank, and Ag exhibits by the Berks County Farm Bureau which included mules and a tractor. The Berks County Dairy Princesses were in attendance. Berks County Department of Agriculture representatives, including Executive Director Kim Fies, threw out the first pitch, and former Dairy Princesses, Angie Davis and Mikayla Orr, sang the national anthem.

Preserving farmland protects one of our most valuable resources— our rich soils, some of the most productive non-irrigated soils in the country. This preservation ensures that Berks County will

It was the perfect night to celebrate the Ag community, preserved farm owners, and the achievement of 80,000 acres of preserved Berks County farmland!

Berks 1st - Keeping You Connected Fall2025

Mu nici p al N ew s

s w e N l a Municip

WANT TO BE PART OF A TEAM? At SECV, Our People Make Us Special WHY OUR EMPLOYEES ENJOY SECV:

Fleetwood Borough

www.fleetwoodboro.com Welcome to the Fleetwood Borough, “Everyone’s Hometown”! In December, the Fleetwood Rec Board hosts a Tree Lighting in the Fleetwood Park complete with Santa and Mrs. Claus! Check out our website for more information on everything that is happening in our little Borough. Council meetings are held the second Monday of every month at 6:30pm in the Community Center.

Hamburg Borough

www.hamburgboro.com Hamburg Borough offers small-town charm with scenic views of the mountains, friendly neighborhoods, and a strong sense of community. Residents enjoy excellent schools, local shops, outdoor recreation, and year-round events. Its convenient location near major highways provides easy access to larger cities while preserving a peaceful, welcoming atmosphere.

Longswamp Township

www.longswamptownship.org Longswamp Township Park & Recreation Board is proudly hosting the following community events! Be sure to save these dates!

All events are held at our community park – 1112 State Street, Mertztown, and admission is FREE! Saturday, December 6, 2025— Christmas Tree Lighting—visit with Santa and Mrs. Claus and sing Christmas Carols. Saturday, March 28, 2026—Egg Hunt—hunt eggs, see the Easter Bunny, and enter to win prize baskets. Saturday, June 13, 2026—8th Annual Swamp Fest—a community day of live bands, children’s activities, food to purchase, and America 250 celebrations.

Upper Tulpehocken Township

www.UpperTulpehockenTownship.com Please visit www.UpperTulpehockenTownship.com for all Upper Tulpehocken Township & Strausstown Village information.

Supervisor meetings are held the second Tuesday of every month at 6:00pm. Residents are encouraged to attend. Trick or Treat will be October 31- 6pm-8pm! Upcoming Strausstown Volunteer Fire Co Breakfasts: Nov 9 & Dec 14.

West Reading Borough

● Our family reputation

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Accounts (FSAs)

● Comprehensive

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● 401(k) Retirement

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serving local customers with care

Vacation ● Sick Leave

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Team up with the TIGER

www.westreadingborough.com West Reading Borough has matured into a thriving, walkable community. We are proud to be the very first Main Street in Berks County. Public art murals can be viewed from the Cherry Street Mural Corridor, “Dean’s Way.” Which are some of your favorites?

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Calling All Municipalities! If you have news you would like to publish in our Spring 2026 issue, please contact Jonathan Heintzman, Berks County Public Relations Officer, at JHeintzman@berkspa.gov for more information. www.berkspa.gov

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Berks 1st - Keeping You Connected Fall2025

R i n cón e n E s p a ño l

UNA NUEVA CAPA DE PINTURA PARA EL DISTELFINK – Ícono del Condado de Berks

E

Por Jonathan Heintzman, Oficial de Relaciones Publicas del Condado de Berks

l residente más extravagante del Centro del Patrimonio del Condado de Berks-la imponente y brillante estatua de Distelfink-recibió recientemente un nuevo toque de color gracias al experto en obras de arte y pintor holandés de Pensilvania, Eric Claypoole. Maestro del arte tradicional de los diseños hexagonales y las estrellas de granero, Claypoole ha devuelto a esta querida ave su vibrante esplendor, asegurando que siga dando la bienvenida a los visitantes como símbolo de buena suerte y felicidad durante muchos años.

El Distelfink, un jilguero estilizado asociado desde hace mucho tiempo con la cultura holandesa de Pensilvania fue creado por primera vez en 1984 por el escultor Ramón Lago y pintado por miembros de la Asociación de Artesanos de Berks. Entre esos artesanos originales se encontraba el padre de Eric, John P. “Johnny” Claypoole, que formaba parte de la asociación y ayudó a dar vida a la emblemática ave. El Distelfink se convirtió rápidamente en una pieza fija del Centro del Patrimonio, pero el paso del tiempo y los cambios climáticos fueron apagando gradualmente sus colores.

Para Claypoole, el trabajo es más que un simple empleo; es una vocación. Hijo de un renombrado pintor de diseños hexagonales, aprendió el oficio de niño, trabajando junto a su padre y continuando una tradición profundamente conectada con la historia de la región.

En las últimas cinco décadas, Claypoole ha pintado o restaurado más de 120 estrellas de granero y diseños hexagonales, enviando sus obras a todo Estados Unidos e incluso a más de 20 países.

Aunque sigue trabajando como carpintero restaurador de tiempo completo, planea dedicar su jubilación por completo a la pintura.

La restauración del Distelfink representa más que un simple mantenimiento de rutina. Es una preservación de la identidad cultural. Es un vívido recordatorio del arte y el simbolismo que recorre la herencia holandesa de Pensilvania del Condado de Berks. Con su renovada capa de brillantes tonos amarillos, rojos y verdes, el Distelfink vuelve a ser un símbolo de alegría y tradición en el Centro del Patrimonio, para deleite tanto de los residentes locales como de los visitantes.

Claypoole, quien creció inmerso en el arte popular holandés de Pensilvania, volvió a pintar el Distelfink por primera vez en 2016. El pasado mes de mayo, volvió a ser llamado para dar nueva vida a la escultura de seis pies de alto y doce pies de largo.

“Se había decolorado con el paso del tiempo y empezaba a crecer musgo en la superficie», explicó Claypoole. «Lo limpié todo, le di una capa base blanca y empezamos de cero. Nos llevó varios fines de semana y mucha pintura, pero fue un trabajo divertido”.

Junto a Claypoole estuvieron Patrick Donmoyer, director del Centro del Patrimonio Cultural Alemán de Pensilvania en la Universidad de Kutztown, y su colega artista Andy Shirk. Juntos, el equipo volvió a pintar cuidadosamente la estatua, conservando sus trazos tradicionales y sus colores vivos y alegres. “Los diseños son básicamente los mismos”, dijo Claypoole. “Hicimos algunos ajustes menores, pero las alas, los colores y la apariencia general se mantienen fieles al original”. www.berkspa.gov

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R i n cón e n Esp a ño l

LOS VOTOS INDIVIDUALES

tienen más peso en las elecciones locales

Aunque puede ser fácil ignorar las elecciones que van más allá de los años presidenciales, las personas elegidas para cargos locales tienen el poder de influir directamente en las políticas que afectan la vida diaria. Los líderes locales ayudan a formar a la comunidad, tomando decisiones sobre seguridad pública, educación, impuestos y más. Sin embargo, mientras que 211,000 residentes del condado de Berks priorizaron el voto en las elecciones presidenciales de 2024, solo 47,000 votaron en las primarias municipales de la primavera pasada. Y con menos votantes presentes, el peso de cada voto se amplifica.

En las elecciones locales, un pequeño número de votos puede determinar quién gana. Durante las recientes primarias municipales del 20 de mayo, un solo voto decidió qué candidato obtuvo el último puesto demócrata en las elecciones de la Junta Directiva Escolar de Reading. Otras elecciones, como la del candidato demócrata a la presidencia del Ayuntamiento de Reading y la del candidato republicano a juez del distrito judicial 23-1-06, se decidieron por menos de 10 votos.

La baja participación se ha convertido en la norma en los años de elecciones municipales, con un promedio del 19 % en las primarias municipales de Berks durante las últimas dos décadas.

Las elecciones de noviembre de esos años, en las que se elige a los cargos públicos, no registraron un aumento significativo, con un promedio del 26 %. Esto significa que la mayoría de las elecciones locales se deciden por sólo una cuarta parte de los votantes registrados y, por lo tanto, es posible que no representen con precisión los intereses de la comunidad en general. La baja participación hace que cada voto emitido sea crucial y puede permitir que un pequeño grupo de votantes tenga una influencia desproporcionada en los resultados finales.

Empates y ganadores con un solo voto

La baja participación también aumenta las probabilidades de que haya empates. Cuando una elección termina con dos 28

Berks 1st - Keeping You Connected Fall2025

Por: Stephanie Nojiri, subdirectora, Oficina de Servicios Electorales

candidatos que obtienen el mismo número de votos, el ganador se determina por sorteo. En Berks, los candidatos sacan una pelota numerada de una bolsa, de forma similar al proceso utilizado para determinar el orden de las papeletas. El candidato que saca el número más bajo es considerado el ganador.

En las elecciones sin candidatos oficiales, una persona puede ganar un puesto en otoño con un solo voto por escrito. Esto suele ocurrir con puestos menos conocidos o solicitados, como auditores municipales y trabajadores electorales.

El derecho a votar es una de las herramientas más poderosas que tienen los residentes para contribuir al futuro de su comunidad.

No pierda esta oportunidad y planifique votar en las Elecciones Municipales del 4 de noviembre, cuando un voto puede hacer la diferencia.

Fechas importantes para las Elecciones Municipales de 2025 Último día para registrarse para votar: Oct 20 Regístrese para votar en www.vote.pa.gov/register. Último día para solicitar la papeleta para votar por correo: Oct 28 Solicite la papeleta para votar por correo en www.vote.pa.gov/apply-mail-in.

Todas las papeletas de votar por correo deben ser recibidos por la Oficina de Servicios Electorales del Condado de Berks antes de las 8 p.m. del día de las elecciones para ser contados. Las papeletas se pueden enviar por correo o dejar en la oficina o en uno de los buzones electorales del condado.

Día de las elecciones: Nov. 4 Las urnas abren de 7 a. m. a 8 p. m. Encuentre su lugar de votación en www.vote.pa.gov/polls.

En la papeleta electoral Esta papeleta electoral para las Elecciones Municipales de 2025 incluye candidaturas que van desde jueces estatales hasta trabajadores electorales a nivel de distrito electoral.

Debido a la gran cantidad de candidaturas locales, la papeleta electoral de cada distrito electoral es diferente y única para ese distrito electoral. Los candidatos aparecerán en la papeleta según los resultados de las primarias, y los candidatos demócratas aparecerán primero porque el gobernador actual es demócrata.

Las papeletas electorales en el condado de Berks incluirán los siguientes cargos: • Juez de la Corte Suprema de Pensilvania • Juez del Tribunal de la Commonwealth/Mancomunidad de Pensilvania • Juez del Tribunal de Causas Comunes del Condado de Berks • Tesorero del Condado • Forense del Condado • Protonotario del Condado • Alguacil del Condado • Juez de Distrito Magistral º Distrito 23-1-06 (al servicio del municipio de Laureldale y el municipio de Muhlenberg) º Distrito 23-2-04 (al servicio del municipio de Cumru y los distritos de Kenhorst, Mohnton y Shillington) • Ciudad de Reading: º Presidente del Consejo º Consejo Municipal– Distritos 1, 4 y 5 • Directores de las Escuelas • Cargos Municipales º Alcaldes municipales º Concejales de distrito º Comisionados municipales de primera clase º Supervisores municipales de segunda clase º Recaudadores de impuestos municipales º Auditores municipales • Trabajadores electorales electos º Jueces electorales º Inspectores electorales Una vez finalizadas, las papeletas de muestra para cada distrito electoral estarán disponibles en nuestro sitio web: www.berkspa.gov/elections.

Preguntas sobre la Retención de Jueces La papeleta de las elecciones municipales de 2025 también incluye ocho preguntas sobre retención de jueces: tres para la Corte Suprema de Pensilvania, uno para el Tribunal Superior de Pensilvania, uno para el Tribunal de la Commonwealth de Pensilvania y tres para el Tribunal de Causas Comunes del Condado de Berks. Los jueces son elegidos inicialmente para un periodo de 10 años. Cuando finaliza ese periodo, el juez debe solicitar la retención de su cargo mediante una pregunta de retención. Los votantes tienen la opción de retener al juez por otros 10 años votando “Sí” o “No”.

Los siguientes jueces aparecerán en la papeleta electoral para su retención: • Christine Donohue (Corte Suprema) • Kevin M. Dougherty (Corte Suprema) • David Wecht (Corte Suprema) • Alice Beck Dubow (Corte Suprema) • Michael H. Wojcik (Tribunal de la Commonwealth) • Pat Barrett (Tribunal de Causas Comunes) • Eleni Dimitriou Geishauser (Tribunal de Causas Comunes) • Jim Lillis (Tribunal de Causas Comunes)

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