Support
Greater Reading’s hub for arts, shopping and entertainment Fall 2016
d r a w A e i n Tow
West Reading Elm Street Receives
West Reading’s
10 Annual Fall Fest th
Music Scenees on the Avenu
Honored to be part of West Reading - Established 1987 We would like to welcome any clients from Hair on the Avenue to United Artists Salon & Spa! If you are a Hair on the Avenue client and have any questions make sure to ask your stylist about the services United Artists has to offer! To book an appointment call 610-376-8481!
unitedartistssalon.com 299 Penn Avenue West Reading, PA 610.376.8481
CONTENTS ////
CONTACT INFORMATION Publisher, Tracy Hoffmann Hoffmann Publishing Group, Inc.
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Editor, Sara Braun Radaoui Design, Kim Lewis 2921 Windmill Road Reading, PA 19608 HoffmannPublishing.com 610.685.0914 Avenues@HoffPubs.com
ADVERTISING Alicia Lee 610.685.0914 ext. 210 Alicia@HoffPubs.com
BOROUGH BUSINESS West Reading Borough 500 Chestnut Street West Reading, PA 19611 WestReadingBorough.com 610.374.8273
WEST READING MAINSTREET PROGRAM West Reading Community Revitalization Foundation 500 Chestnut Street West Reading, PA 19611 WRCRF.org 610.685.8854 View the Digital Version of West Reading Avenues online at lovewestreading.org The opinions expressed in this material are for general information only and are not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations for any individual.
IN THE KNOW & ON THE GO 4 New & Improved on the Avenues
RETAILERS PERSPECTIVE 7 100 Years on the Avenue
Wm H Diller Jewelry
IN THE COMMUNITY 8 West Reading Elm Street
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15 16 17 18
Receives Townie Award Wyomissing Area Education Foundation (WAEF) Fall events in West Reading Miller Center Chosen as Host Site for Independent Film Series Music Scene On the Avenues Discover World-Class Music Close to Home Our Community Family Barre Comes to West Reading Mosaic Takes Shape in West Reading Reading Health System’s Foundation: Investing in our Future
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FALL FESTIVAL 20 10th Annual Fall Fest
All rights reserved. No portion of this publication may be reproduced electronically or in print without the express written permission of the publisher.
CALENDAR OF EVENTS
West Reading Avenues is published quarterly {Spring, Summer, Fall, Winter}.
DINING SPOTLIGHT
24 Fall on the Avenues
29 A Taste of Thai
COMMUNITY SPOTLIGHT 30 Welcome to the Neighborhood
20 IN EVERY ISSUE 3 From the Editor 32 West Reading Farmer’s Market 33 Arts in the Community
On the Cover: Dean Rohrbach , Elm Street Manager, and Ruby in front of I and West Reading, 2010 Mural.
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WELCOME //// from the editor
Welc ome Fa ll !
W 101 South First Avenue | West Reading, PA 19611 | Ph: 610.375.8581 | Fx: 610.375.4102
Sara Braun Radaoui Editor Avenues Magazine
elcome to Fall Fest season on the Avenues! West Reading is rolling out an exciting Autumn calendar. Find details for every event you’ll need for your enjoyment this fall, from family activities and nights out with friends, to shopping and dining-- there’s something for everyone! While our main focus is on Fall Fest and the Calendar of Events, you’re sure to find exciting activities from September through December.
Enjoy New and Improved establishments on the Avenue, as well as noteworthy news from our enthusiastic Elm Street Manager, Dean Rohrbach. Kudos to Dean and the West Reading Community Revitalization Foundation team for being presented with a Townie Award, recognizing WRCRF as the most productive neighborhood revitalization program in Pennsylvania. How cool is that!
October 1 + 2, 2016 | 10AM-5PM OVER 90 JURIED ARTISTS HOT GLASS DEMOS
Want some perspectives on community involvement in West Reading? See how businesses like Rieck’s Printing believe in the tight-knit community of our borough. Learn all about the Reading Health System Foundation, a non-profit whose mission is to support innovation, research, education and transformation of healthcare services to align with future health needs of our community. AVE16
MUSIC & FOOD
PRESENT THIS AD FOR $1.00 OFF ADMISSION
GoggleWorks Center for the Arts 201 Washington St., Reading, PA 610-374-4600 X104 | FREE PARKING
artsfestivalreading.org 2
Looking for a new cuisine? Among the shops and restaurants of popular West Reading, Rice Modern Thai Restaurant is a quaint restaurant that offers modern takes on traditional Thai cuisine. Whether dining inside or outside, the tranquil ambiance is delightful. Folks are raving about their savory pad Thai and their delicious signature Thai iced tea!
W Rdg Avenues Magazine, Fall Issue: 1/4 page ad, Avenues Fall 2016 3.5625” wide x 4.833” high
We hope this issue stays with you all season as a reference guide to fall in West Reading and the extended Penn Corridor. We look forward to seeing you on the Avenues!
IN THE KNOW & ON THE GO
ESTABLISHMENTS
READING WYOMISSING
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100 great retail experiences, Explore more than
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different bars, taverns, restaurants and eateries, featuring an eclectic mix of foods, within a walkable 1 mile radius.
ROOMS
BEERS
brewed by more than 100 American Craft Breweries, in a variety of establishments along the West Reading/Penn Corridor.
Dine at over 50
791 HOTEL
+ 750 CRAFT
5TH AVE
Consume over 750 different craft beers,
EXPERIENCES
6TH AVE
West Reading and the Penn Corridor are known as Greater Reading’s hub for arts, shopping and entertainment. It’s a great place to visit for food, drink and retail therapy with or without partaking in the abundance of entertainment options along the corridor. Come for a day or stay for a week, we have lots to keep your schedule full. CU in WR!
100+ RETAIL
8TH AVE
CU in WR!
+ 50 EATING
VF VF OUTLET H READING HOSPITAL & MEDICAL CENTER NORTH
SCOTTISH RITE CATHEDRAL M READING PUBLIC MUSEUM
within an eight block walk. lovewestreading.org
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IN THE KNOW & ON THE GO //// new & improved
New & Improved on the Avenues NEW ON THE AVENUE
Relish Who they are: Just a couple of big kids who like to drink good coffee and eat hot dogs. But seriously, Relish came about from a group of friends who traveled the world and came to find that the best place has always been home. Relish believes in their community, its members and its history, and they intend not only to preserve it, but also to relish it. Through partnering with awesome local vendors, farmers and purveyors, Relish plans to bring their philosophy to the community! “Food should be simple, pleasurable and genuinely flavorful.” What they sling: Top notch coffee and hot dogs. Sounds weird? They think it’s fun! This isn’t just your average hot dog. They are creating a unique twist on a classic favorite. Relish’s fare is simple and creative, with a focus on using local purveyors with natural ingredients. Relish is set to open end of September. Come on and see what the buzz is about, but remember, don’t just enjoy it, relish it!
Relish
www.facebook.com/relishwestreading 715 Penn Avenue, West Reading, PA 19611 (484)-599-0636
East Ridge Outfitters East Ridge Outfitters is a family owned gear shop that supports the local climbing, hiking, trail running, and conservation communities. They have recently relocated from their original store that resided in Blandon, Pennsylvania, to 635 Penn Avenue! By showing your support through purchases, you are encouraging the growth of access funds and conservation efforts in Central Pennsylvania. East Ridge Outfitters works closely with local rock climbing gyms, scout groups, and schools to encourage passion for the outdoors by sponsoring climbing competitions, clean & climb events, hill runs, and other charitable organizations and events. East Ridge provides the best outdoor and mountain climbing gear and apparel available to make any outdoor adventure a memorable one! They proudly offer the best selection of rock climbing equipment and outdoor gear in Pennsylvania. Visit their shop next time you pass through the Avenue. Whether you are gearing up to trek the Appalachian Trail or just learning the ropes, East Ridge Outfitters has the gear to fit your adventure and price level. From the technical to the casual, East Ridge Outfitters will have you looking and feeling great on and off the trail!
East Ridge Outfitters
www.eastridgeoutfitters.com 635 Penn Avenue, West Reading, PA 19611 (844)-376-4327 4
Avenues Fall 2016
IN THE KNOW & ON THE GO NEW ON THE AVENUE
Your Gateway to an Amazing World of Art
Penn Ave Salon & Spa Each season brings a change in fashion, hair design, makeup and nail colors, as well as style techniques, tools, men’s styles and the various products that go along with it. With interest in trend influence and new and upcoming design, Penn Avenue Salon and Spa offers opportunities in styling and communicating these influences with each salon guest, creating interest and anticipation with each and every visit! Stop on in this new salon on the avenue to experience design, style and personalized service in a beautiful atmosphere with considerate staff always making sure to accommodate your schedules and requests. The art of design, fashion and style influence each salon guest in refining their look, reflecting current trends, and maintaining classic styles.
Penn Avenue Salon & Spa
www.pennavenuesalonandspa.com 430 Penn Avenue, West Reading, PA 19611 (484)-336-3973
Benchwarmer’s Coffee Located on 400 Penn Avenue, Benchwarmer’s is a recently created micro-coffee roasting company of specialty coffee. Their coffee is fair trade and contains no artificial flavoring! The natural flavors of the beans come out during the roasting and brewing processes, while never sacrificing the quality of the coffee for quantity.
604 Penn Avenue West Reading, PA 19611 610-375-9122 www.artplusgallerypa.com
Fine Arts & Crafts Prints • Gift Shop
Hours: 12-7pm Weds-Sat. 10-4pm Sunday, 12-5pm Tues. Receptions every 2nd Friday 5-8pm.
Creative Vibes Tattoo Studio Come and check out Creative Vibes Tattoo Studio, where artistry and creativity come together, located on 548 Penn Avenue. Keristine Hayes and Juan Garcia have a combined tattooing experience of 25 years! Both of them are excited to be a part of such an artistic and personal industry. The goal of Creative Vibes Tattoo Studio is to provide all friends, both current and new, with a creative outlet in which they can express themselves through creative art. Stop on by and let’s get creative!
Creative Vibes Tattoo Studio
www.creativevibesstudio.com 548 Penn Avenue, West Reading, PA 19611 (610)-370-7552
“We will boldly go where no coffee brewer/roaster has gone before, and in doing so, we will not sacrifice the taste, freshness, and quality of our coffee.” Freshly roasted coffee and doughnuts made to order! Come on in and try a freshly brewed cup of warm, delicious goodness!
Benchwarmer’s Coffee
www. benchwarmerscoffee.com 400 Penn Avenue, West Reading, PA 19611 (610)-374-2326 lovewestreading.org
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IN THE KNOW & ON THE GO //// new & improved
New & Improved on the Avenues NEW ON THE AVENUE
El Morro Café
Brewer’s Bar and Grill Renovations
Old San Juan invites you to their second location, El Morro Café. El Morro is a casual, family-style café specializing in Latin Cuisine. The new restaurant made their debut in West Reading early May with their Grand Opening. Their menu features a wide array of flavorful appetizers, subs, steam table platters and family style combos. Stop on in El Morro’s new location for some savory bites!
Brewer’s Bar and Grill began renovating with their expansion that started back in April, taking the sports bar from 89 seats to 119 seats. The grand reopening was July 11, coincidentally at the same time that they were celebrating their 10-year anniversary. Throughout the duration of the expansion, Brewers stayed open the entire time. It was still busier as ever in there, week nights included. Stop on back for the delicious specials and craft beers galore!
El Morro Café
Brewer’s Bar and Grill
www.facebook.com/elmorrocafe 36 N 6th Avenue, West Reading, PA 19611 (610)-927-6292
CC UIC NA CU NIA BISTRO & CATERING BISTRO & CATERING
903 MORGANTOWN ROAD, READING, PA 19607 610-823-0269
presents
550 PENN AVE, WEST READING, PA 484-651-1049 6
Avenues Fall 2016
www.brewersbarandgrill.com 101 S Third Avenue, West Reading, PA 19611 (610)-375-8760
RETAILERS PERSPECTIVE
100 Years on the Avenue
Wm H Diller Jewelry We Don’t Sell Jewelry, We Sell Happiness
As one of the oldest operating jewelry stores in Berks County, Wm H Diller has developed customer relationships that spans decades. Since it was established in 1914, customers have travelled to this corner jewelry store, now a landmark location, for a personalized shopping experience. The staff ’s commitment to excellence and dedication to matching customer needs attributes to the perfect pairings made between shoppers and their exquisite jewelry collections. “We don’t sell jewelry, we sell happiness,” is a standby statement of owners Jon Lis & Cindy Lis. Established in 1914, Wm H Diller’s services include appraisals, jewelry insurance and insurance replacement assistance, custom design, engraving, laser inscribing, silver refinishing and watch repair. Whether you’re a fourth generation customer or brand new to the Avenue, Diller Jewelers, as its fondly referred to as, welcomes you.
Insuring
Your Success Because Your Success is Important to Us
Timeless Classics | Contemporary Designs
This West Reading showroom boasts familiar designer names in an all-encompassing selection of jewelry, watches, bridal and giftware. Diller Jewelrs provides free gold estimates on old gold, antique items and fine jewelry and gold. They also specialize in estate pieces, including antique jewelry over 100 years old. Exquisite music boxes and piggy banks that can be customized by monogramming services are unique options for baby gifts as well. Shop their stunning choices of extensive designer collections, heirloom gifts and gemstones. Diller Jewelers will even help read the mind of your significant other – ask to add to your very own wish list and let Santa do the rest of the work. Chances are he had something to do with your grandmother’s engagement ring, too.
WmH Diller Jewelers 601 Penn Avenue, West Reading, PA 19611 610-372-0019 | www.dillerjewelers.com Hours: Tues – Fri: 10-6pm, Sat: 10-5pm
BUSINESS INSURANCE Property and Equipment Liability Insurance
Automobile and Truck Fleets Workers Compensation Professional Liability
Group Medical, Disability, and Life
610.376.3959 • Fax: 610.376.2610 1150 Berkshire Boulevard, Wyomissing
www.andersonbrokers.com
lovewestreading.org
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IN THE COMMUNITY
West Reading Elm Street Receives
Townie Award
Dean L. Rohrbach, Elm Street Manager
West Reading Elm Street, the residential development program of West Reading Community Revitalization Foundation (WRCRF), was presented with a Townie Award by Pennsylvania Downtown Center’s executive director, Bill Fontana, recognizing them as the most productive neighborhood revitalization program in Pennsylvania. Additionally, West Reading resident Andy Moletress received a Townie Award recognizing him as top Volunteer of the Year in Pennsylvania.
From left to right: Bill Fontana, Andy Moletress & Dean L. Rohrbach. Photo courtesy of Reading Eagle. 8
Avenues Fall 2016
T
ownie awards were created by the Pennsylvania Downtown Center to recognize excellence in areas advancing the sense of place, quality of life and economic vitality of Pennsylvania’s downtowns and nearby neighborhood residential areas.
Pennsylvania Downtown Center tracks reporting requirements for the PA Department of Community & Economic Development. West Reading Elm Street production was measured in categories such as private property facades improved, enhancing public spaces through streetscape improvements and public art, substantial rehab and modernization of the housing stock, total dollars invested in their target area, and ratio of private sector dollars to public sector funding as well as their innovative & entrepreneurial solutions to effectively combat blighting influences and contributing to making West Reading a unique & distinctive community.
Moletress volunteered 855 documented hours in 2015 worth a total of $21,324 in labor according to Independent Sector.com, acting as general contractor on Property Acquisition, Rehabilitation & Resell (PARR) projects for West Reading Community Revitalization Foundation where he sits on board of directors. Through PARR, WRCRF buys foreclosed properties to keep them out of hands of investors and then fixes them up and brings them into the 21st century before selling them to homebuyers. As a licensed contractor with experience, in all phases of rehabilitation, Moletress helps reduce rehab project costs by 16%-18%, which WRCRF passes along to the homebuyer. Moletress is also very active as WRCRF board treasure, current president of Amity Lions Club and was past president of St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in Douglasville. None of these volunteer hours were tracked so none were considered for the award.
Bringing Better Health Care into the Community
The first annual Berks Festival of Trees by the DoubleTree Hotel by Hilton, Reading offers a series of fundraising events to enhance the quality of health care for our region by benefitting the Berks Visiting Nurse Association (Berks VNA). Sponsor a Tree for only $1,000 We’re asking businesses and individuals to become designers for the first-ever Berks Festival of Trees. Sponsors will create an exciting and eye-catching tree display that beholds imaginative colors, textures and ornaments. Sponsors can also use their company’s products to decorate the trees in a unique and attractive way.
Save the Dates Sponsor Rally Event | September 28th at 5 p.m. Tree Lighting | November 2nd at 5 p.m. Auction Party | December 2nd at 5 p.m.
2016 Berks Festival of Trees Additional Sponsorship Opportunities Exclusive Sponsorships: • Auction Party Event Sponsor: $15,000 • Kick-off Event Sponsor: $5,000 • Rally Event Sponsor: $5,000 Entertainment and Activity Sponsorships at the Auction Party: • Bar Sponsor: $2,500 • Take Home Gifts: $2,500 • Cookie Table: $2,000 • Photobooth: $2,000 • Hot Beverage Table: $1,000 In Kind sponsorship opportunities also available!
*All Berks Festival of Trees events take place at the DoubleTree Hotel by Hilton, Reading. For complete information about this important new Berks County event visit
www.hhcminc.org/about/special-events.
The Volunteer of the Year award was established by PA Downtown Center to annually acknowledge an exemplary volunteer and bring attention to the individual efforts that help make our communities a better place to live, as well as promoting and expanding the ethic of service to others. The award is meant to celebrate a volunteer whose commitment to community and to the program is truly extraordinary.
lovewestreading.org
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IN THE COMMUNITY
Wyomissing Area Education Foundation (WAEF) Fall Events in West Reading What is WAEF? On October 5, 2016, the 5th annual Giving Goes Glam fundraiser, sponsored by the L.O.V.E. team of West Reading, will take place at the Neag Planetarium of the Reading Public Museum from 5:30 until 8:30 pm. The event will feature runway fashions from West Reading Boutiques and Shoppes as well as raffles, refreshments, and other surprises! You can find more information about this event on Facebook, The Love Team of West Reading, and gotowestreading.com. Fall into Fashion-“a fabulous excuse to do something great!” Proceeds will benefit the West Reading Elementary Center Technology Enhancement project through the Wyomissing Area Education Foundation.
The Wyomissing Area Education Foundation (WAEF) is a community-based organization dedicated to expanding knowledge and enriching learning in the Wyomissing Area School District. Since 1995, the Wyomissing Area Education Foundation has awarded over $367,190.00 in grants that benefit education in the Wyomissing Area School District. WAEF provides endowed grant/scholarship opportunities for students, having twelve endowed funds at this time. WAEF’s most recent endeavours are focused on Technology and Trade funding for students in secondary and post-secondary education.
On October 8, 2016, the first annual Spartan Stroll, supported by generous sponsors of the Wyomissing Area Education Foundation (WAEF), will occur after the Wyomissing Area Homecoming football game. Wyomissing Area Alumni, Wyomissing Area Parents, and community members will join together for an evening stroll in West Reading. Eight participating venues will feature drink and food specials to participants on the stroll! Meet new friends, join alumni, and celebrate Wyomissing Area’s Homecoming! Join us for the meet and greet party in honor of the WAEF Distinguished Alumni Award Recipient! Proceeds will benefit grants to classrooms in Wyomissing Area schools. For more information and to purchase tickets, like us on Facebook at: Wyomissing Area Education Foundation or visit our website at www.wyoarea-foundation.org.
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Avenues Fall 2016
5 Bristol Court Lower Level Wyomissing, PA 19610 Phone: 484-509-5505 www.sensoryconcepts.net sensoryconcepts@aol.com
IN THE COMMUNITY
Miller Center Chosen as Host Site for Independent Film Series
N
ew for the 2016-2017 season, the Miller Center for the Arts at Reading Area Community College has been chosen as a host site for the Mid Atlantic Arts Foundation’s touring film series On Screen/In Person. The series features six films starting in September 2016 and running through May 2017. Each film will include a complimentary pre-film reception with light hors d’oeuvres and finish with a post-film panel discussion featuring the filmmaker and community leaders. The first film in the series, Sweet Dreams by Lisa Fruchtman, will be screened Tuesday, September 27, 2016 at 6:30 p.m. and is presented in partnership with Women2Women.
On Screen/In Person tours new independent American films and their respective filmmakers to communities across the mid-Atlantic region. Six films and their creators are selected for touring annually. Each tour engagement includes a public screening, a pre- or post-screening discussion with the visiting filmmaker, and a community activity with the filmmaker that provides greater appreciation for their work and the art of film. Organizations in Delaware, District of Columbia, Maryland, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, U.S. Virgin Islands, Virginia, and West Virginia interested in serving as host sites for tours are selected by the Foundation through an open, competitive application process. The program features filmmakers from across the United States with films in animation, documentary, experimental and narrative works eligible for consideration. Other films featured in the 2016-2017 On Screen/In Person include You Belong to Me, a film documenting the murder of Dr. C. L. Adams by Ruby McCollum in 1950s Florida, Love Thy Nature, which explores Man’s connectedness to the natural world as steward and otherwise, Hilleman: A Perilous Quest to Save the World’s Children, a biography about Dr. Maurice Hilleman credited for developing vaccines for a multitude of childhood diseases, Real Boy, a coming-of-age documentary that focuses on one teenager’s transgender journey, and lastly, States of Grace, a film that captures the profound transformation of a revered physician and her family in the wake of a life-changing accident.
Sweet Dreams centers around Rwanda’s all-female drum troupe, Ingoma Nshya, composed of women from both sides of the 1994 Rwandan genocide. The troupe offers a place of support, healing and reconciliation. When the group decides to partner with two young American entrepreneurs, Jennie Dundas and Alexis Miesen of Brooklyn’s Blue Marble Ice Cream, and open Rwanda’s first ever ice cream shop, these remarkable Rwandan women embark on a journey of independence, peace and possibility. Sweet Dreams interweaves intimate, heart-wrenching stories with joyous and powerful music to present a moving portrait of a country in transition. Together they work to open Rwanda’s first ever ice cream shop; all of which leads them on a journey of independence, peace and possibility.
For more information about the film series and to purchase tickets, please contact the Miller Center box office at 610.607.6270 or visit www.racc.edu/millercenter. Tickets for each film are $5.00 and seating is general admission. On Screen/In Person is a program of Mid Atlantic Arts Foundation made possible through the generous support of the National Endowment for the Arts.
lovewestreading.org
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IN THE COMMUNITY
Music Scene s e u n e v A e h t n o
Denise Drobnick
C
all it my a-ha moment. Art on the Avenue 2013. Where has this town been all my life? Why am I not spending every waking moment here? I knew it was my destiny to move to West Reading.
Now my new town feels as comfortable as an old shoe, a place more vibrant than any place I’ve ever lived. The list of reasons is long, but as a dancing karaoke diva trapped in an insurance agent’s body, number one on that list is the music scene on the Avenue.
ey Matt Bail s Cult Statu
Just recently, Neil Young appeared in the 400 block during Love West Reading’s 2nd Friday event. Ok, so it was local jeweler Justin Bortz in a wig, but who could tell? Justin and his band, Practical Saints, delight crowds around these parts with selections from Bowie, the Kinks, the Sex Pistols, Cash and of course, Young. Justin’s son, Houston, is also a fixture on the local music scene through his company Midnight Swan Entertainment. He put together this year’s Art on the Avenue lineup, including Caroline Reese, Charlie Wanyo’s The Push, and the Fallen Troubadours. Bortz = Music in West Reading. Speaking of 2nd Friday, can we talk about a little band I first discovered playing outside Chef Alan’s back on one of those summer nights? I am a huge fan of Cult Status, a band of teens from Governor Mifflin High School. Every time I see them the set list has expanded and they are more polished. They did a THREE
rlette Katie Sca
Practica l
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Avenues Fall 2016
Saints
- hour gig for the West Reading 4th of July celebration, with songs from Nirvana, Stone Temple Pilots, Hosier, and even the Gap Band. The drummer is a crowd favorite, complete with the hair and all the drummer moves, but each of these guys is special and going places. It’s a family affair, with dads as roadies, which is very cool to see. Keep an eye on Cult Status. Has there ever been a more beautiful voice in West Reading than that of Katie Scarlette? She and jazz guitarist Andy Buraz appear frequently at Penn Ave venues such as the West Reading Tavern, Say Cheese, and also in the city at Sofrito’s. To hear her renditions of Sinatra and Winehouse, to name just a few, will absolutely fly you to the moon. Katie is a classic, timeless beauty inside and out.
HOLIDAY
MATT BAILEY. Enough said. This singer/acoustic guitarist is a prolific genius with a patented music menu. Pick a song, shout it out, and he will pull it from his musical recesses and put a Matt Bailey spin on it. From Marley to Maroon 5 to Mayer to classic Radiohead, he gets it done. A recent gig at the IA Club turned into a full-on dance party for hours. And Matt takes it a step further by cultivating other local musicians as host of open mic night every Tuesday at Chatty Monks (he taught me we call this a vertical in the biz.) He gives encouragement and a stage to amazing regulars like Carolyn, Maddie, and Regina…. can you tell I think the women own this thing? OK, some talented dudes appear as well. Singing, playing, even spoken word will be heard on this night. Hey Matt – Willie Nelson called and he wants his guitar back.
Black Friday, Nov. 25th 9am-4pm
Incidentally on Wednesdays I venture out of the borough into Wyomissing. My close friend and songstress extraordinaire, Ara, has her own vertical at Goodnites Lounge. It’s a dance party like none other, and the fun continues afterwards with Kupcake Karaoke by Kim and bartender/party coordinator Denise Simmon at Applebee’s Wyo. Here, all voices are welcome, not just the pros like Ara. I get to unleash my inner diva for one night and be a star.
CRAFT FEST
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These and so many more make up the fabulous music scene of West Reading… Chris Heslop, Ken Kemmerer, Spencer Kelly, Flux Capacitor …the list goes on and on. Get out there, take it in, sing and dance some, and above all else, be kind to one another.
lovewestreading.org
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IN THE COMMUNITY
Discover World-Class Music Close to Home
H
ere it is, ladies and gentlemen, the Reading Symphony Orchestra’s 104th season! We explode into the season with a grand night of music. Rachmaninoff ’s Rhapsody on a Theme of Paganini, with the great William Wolfram as soloist, and Holst’s “The Planets” are a music lovers dream for opening night, Saturday, September 24, 2016. If you ever wondered about the structural integrity of the Santander Performing Arts Center, that’s the night to really test it. For those of you who also love the lighter approach in the RSO’s offerings, a New Year’s Eve in the company of the extraordinary Ellis Hall and the music of
Ray Charles, plus the rampant virtuosity of the Mambo Kings in February need a ‘hold’ in your diaries straight away. Then, you’ll see that we’ve spared no effort in creating for you one of our most compelling seasons to date. Great soloists returning to the RSO include Grammy-Award winning guitarist Jason Vieaux and the phenomenal pianist Fabio Bidini. Several new friends join the symphony for the first time and we are thrilled to be sharing the stage on a number of occasions with the Reading Choral Society and Baltimore Choral Arts. Familiar masterpieces such as Brahms’ Symphony No. 3 and Beethoven’s Symphony No. 2 stand alongside several new and recent masterpieces that I know you’ll
enjoy, whilst the combination of music, singing and spoken-word in Mendelssohn’s magical A Midsummer Night’s Dream will lead us merrily into our next summer recess! It’s here, it’s going to happen, it’s live music at its very best. Join your Reading Symphony Orchestra for more unforgettable evenings. I’ll see you at the symphony, Andrew Constantine, Music Director Reading Symphony Orchestra
Give your love an address.
Select any address in the world, and let a diamond mark the moment that changed everything.
Where you met. Where he proposed. Where you call home. #MapYourMoment
601 Penn Ave, West Reading 610-372-0019 Closed Sundays & Mondays www.dillerjewelers.com
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Avenues Fall 2016
IN THE COMMUNITY
Our Community
FAMILY Chrissy Murray, Rieck’s Printing
A
t Rieck’s Printing, we realize that giving back to the community is important for any business. We are proud of the work we do for our community and we know that what you contribute to your community is a large part of your business as well. We help to broaden your reach with the perfect printed piece to get your message across and show everyone in your community how grateful you are to be a part of it, just like we are in West Reading!
Rieck’s Printing continues to operate as a family owned business, today, just as we did in our humble beginnings in 1936. It was in 1966 that Rieck’s Printing made the move to West Reading, and has called West Reading home ever since.
Steve Post, second-generation owner, and Chrissy Murray
Our fundraising division, Rieck’s Publications, is extremely community focused. We specialize in a variety of fundraising projects for all types of non-profit organizations and groups such as school sports teams, booster clubs, fire companies, musical and fraternal organizations and more. We provide program books, calendars, posters and placemats for the organizations. It is our goal to help make each organization’s fundraising project a success. We have strived to be at the forefront of the print industry and to continue our legacy of a family business where all of our customers are a part of “our community family.”
Conducting business “off the Avenue” at the corner of 1st Avenue and Franklin Streets, we are often overlooked when thinking of the usual West Reading businesses. This isn’t untrue; we don’t have a window on Penn Avenue. We do have a sign, above our building, that tens of thousands have seen numerous times on 422 bypass travels. But, on or off the avenue, Rieck’s Printing is committed to the community of West Reading, to our fellow businesses in the borough, as well as the residents. We strive to assist our community in any way we can. We serve on the board for the Business Promotions Committee of the West Reading Revitalization Foundation, working with other West Reading businesses to drive traffic to our great borough. We do this by actively participating in the activities of the business Promotions Committee, and by working with various West Reading businesses to share their message, and promote them within the borough and beyond, with postcards, brochure, mailings and other various items. We also work directly with the borough, producing the recreation guide as well as your borough newsletter, and more. Rieck’s believes in the tight knit community of our borough, and are honored to be a part of it. We are a member of Friends of the Reading Hospital Board, and are hands on in the West Reading community, connecting businesses and individuals, working to strengthen our community and assist each other with their needs. The connections we have made through this have been invaluable, for those we can assist, as well as allowing us to share the community concerns with other businesses and the borough community. lovewestreading.org
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IN THE COMMUNITY
Barre Comes to West Reading Lisa Priebe, Every Body Pilates
O
ne of the most popular workout crazes has come to West Reading at Every Body Pilates. EBP’s Power Barre falls into the same category as Booty Barre, Barre 3 and Barre Amped, popular exercise programs that share elements of dance, yoga, and Pilates. Appealing to individuals with little to no previous experience with dance, Power Barre classes teach dance basics at a ballet barre in a workout that leaves the students with the feelings of a command performance.
Lisa Priebe of Every Body Pilates has been teaching barre classes at her studio in West Reading for four years. She specializes in Fletcher Pilates, developed by Ron Fletcher, a dancer who studied with Joseph and Clara Pilates and who included barre exercises as an element of his Fletcher Pilates work. Lisa’s Fletcher Barre classes focus on proper form and alignment of the body while performing the barre exercises. She describes her class as a way to connect the core, or center of the body, to the foot, ankle and leg work with the barre exercises. “No one leaves class without feeling a strong awareness of their lower body, a necessary element of gaining strength for walking in alignment,” Lisa says about her class. She adds Pilates mat exercises to the class to round out the workout. 16
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Recently Lisa added a second “barre” option to her studio offerings. Power Barre is taught by Megan Maslar, a Berks County native who is classically trained in ballet. Megan’s Power Barre class takes Lisa’s approach one step further into the dance world, while retaining the Pilates fundamentals and principles. Megan moves the students quickly and effectively to give them a great overall workout with the feelings of grace and elegance from dance. She incorporates numerous repetitions so her students can master what may be unfamiliar movements, and then she adds variety. She uses props such as balls and bands to emphasize the movements and… music! The result is a stimulating hour of Pilates’ core strength development and an opportunity to engage in the fine art of dance. Megan’s Power Barre classes are held currently at Every Body Pilates (629 Court Street, West Reading) on Tuesday evenings at 5:30 pm. Additional class times will be added in the fall. To find out more or register for a class, call the studio at 888-509-1063 or check online at www.everybody-pilates.com.
IN THE COMMUNITY
Mosaic Takes Shape in West Reading Dean L. Rohrbach, Elm Street Manager
T
he Art Nouveau mosaic at 4th & Cherry in West Reading was completed in early July. Local mosaic artist Beverly Leviner took a vague concept and made it come to life. Mike Miller, Wyomissing School Distract art teacher and founder of Berks Public Art Workshop, provided oversight and direction to students taking his public art class who worked hard in sweltering humidity and high temperatures to bring the project to fruition.
Its style is Art Nouveau, French for ‘new art’, characterized by being dynamic, undulating, and flowing, with curved ‘whiplash’ lines of syncopated rhythm. Another Art Nouveau feature is the use of hyperbolas and parabolas that seem to spring to life and ‘grow’ into plant-derived forms and long flowing hair. It’s appropriate the design incorporates long flowing hair since it faces the parking area for Tina’s Salon & Day Spa. Tina Shenk is also the president of The L.O.V.E. Team, a local nonprofit community betterment group, which contributed to the project. The Art Nouveau mosaic is the ninth piece of public art the West Reading Revitalization Foundation has installed as part of its Cherry Street Mural Corridor which stretches from South 4th to 7th Avenue creating an outdoor art gallery between the business and residential districts. Three more are planned to be completed before the end of the year bringing the total to eleven. These are not your common urban murals honoring history, individuals or events. These are all unique and distinctive works by local artists covering a wide variety of artist styles and subject matter. The Cherry Street Mural Corridor doesn’t just broaden the art scene in Berks County and involve children in art education. Its main function is as an economic development tool by creating a ‘sense of place’. For businesses along Penn Avenue, it will create a pedestrian circulation pattern taking visitors and shoppers down toward blocks that receive less attention. For residential neighborhoods, it helps to create a walkable neighborhood to attract young professionals and families who want a ‘cool’ place to live. Next time you are attending one of West Reading’s outdoor festivals, take a walk down to Cherry Street and check out the art!
lovewestreading.org
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IN THE COMMUNITY
Reading Health System’s Foundation:
Investing in our Future
R
eading Health System Foundation, founded in January 2015, Pathways to Healthcare Careers is a non-profit organization whose mission is to support These education initiatives are geared at encouraging youth to explore innovation, research, education, and transformation of careers in the healthcare field. Through strategic partnerships with healthcare services to align with future health needs of our commu- K-12 educators, community and government organizations, the goal nity. The Foundation, governed by a volunteer board of directors of this program is to increase interest in healthcare careers, help that includes community leaders, physicians and Reading Health students remove barriers to training and education and prepare System executives, is led by Board Chair, Chris Kraras and President, students to pursue higher education. Katherine Thornton of Wyomissing.
“I firmly believe that our unwavering support of innovation, education, and research will enable Reading Health System achieve their commitment to providing the highest quality and most cost-effective healthcare in the region. However, achieving this can often come at a cost and that’s where Reading Health System Foundation and the generous donors throughout the community can provide assistance,” Thornton said. This has certainly been accomplished in just their first year, as is evident with the long list of 2016 Reading Health System Foundation Grant Awards recently announced. Through its Grant Program, the Foundation awarded more than $256,000 in grants to innovative projects led by Reading Health physicians, nurses and others associated with Reading Health System. These grant-funded initiatives will enhance the health and wellness for patients and the community and will support the ongoing transformation of healthcare. The first projects to receive this funding include:
Community Care Navigators Pilot Program
This pilot program will identify selected paramedics to serve as patient navigators to visit patients’ homes after discharge to follow up on their care.
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Peer to Peer Learning Assessment System for Electronic Health Record Safety
This program will aim to build upon effective electronic health record design, implementation, use and management. The grant will be used to develop, pilot and evaluate a peer-to-peer approach for addressing health information technology.
Telemedicine and Dermoscopy
Utilizing a dermatoscope in primary-care offices, family medicine physicians will be able to electronically communicate those images to a dermatologist.
Advanced Epic Workflow Voice Commands
Using Advanced Voice Commands for physicians with Epic and M*Modal technologies, providers can work more efficiently with the electronic health record, improving workflow and ultimately improving patient care.
Geographic Information System to Track Readmission
An experienced graduate research intern from Carnegie Mellon University will facilitate the integration of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) technology into the Hospital Readmission Project to track the presence of high readmission rates within our community.
Study the use of MRI in Patients with Permanent Pacemakers and Implanted Cardioverter Defibrillators
A collaborative research project with Johns Hopkins University, this pilot study will establish and monitor protocol regarding the safety of MRI’s in patients with permanent pacemakers and implanted cardioverter defibrillators.
Babyscripts Mobile App
Through this mobile app, pregnant women can keep better track of their health, find answers to their health-related questions and easily communicate with their doctor’s office.
Behavioral Health Home
Staff will receive training to assist them in establishing an integration of healthcare for patients with serious mental illness.
MAKING A DIFFERENCE IN OUR COMMUNITY. TODAY AND EVERYDAY. Contributions from grateful patients, individuals, families, employees, foundations and corporations enhance and expand vital projects, programs and services. Each gift is deeply appreciated and helps Reading Health System physicians, nurses, and staff members utilize the most advanced technology and treatment methods for the health of our community. With the support of these donations, the Foundation enables innovation, education and research initiatives that directly benefit Reading Health System patients and the community. The Doctors’ Day Recognition Program, online donations, planned giving and Reading HealthPlex Naming Opportunities, the newest giving program, are some of the Foundation’s primary donor programs. Reading HealthPlex for Advanced Surgical & Patient Care, an all-new 476,000 square foot surgical and in-patient tower, offers donors a meaningful, visible and lasting legacy in honor of a loved one or a pivotal figure in the life of a donor. A number of locations throughout Reading HealthPlex are currently available for naming including the main lobby entrance, surgical suites, patient care areas and family lounge areas. Those interested in being part of a lasting legacy are invited to visit www.readinghealthplex.org to view an interactive campus map for a complete list of giving opportunities.
We are a full service real estate company representing clients in Berks and Lancaster County. If you are planning to buy or sell your home, please consider Weikel Realty. 12A South Fifth Avenue West Reading, PA 19611 (610) 816-7404
www.WeikelRealtyGroup.com Chris J. Weikel REALTOR®/Broker (610) 914-3199
Megan Weikel REALTOR® (717) 779-3817
First choice for clients seeking integrity and high-value services lovewestreading.org
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FALL FESTIVAL
West Reading’s
10 Annual Fall Fest th
Saturday, September 17th 12 p.m. – 9 p.m. West Reading comes alive during its annual Fall Festival on the Avenue. Presented by the West Reading Community Revitalization Foundation, West Reading’s Fall Fest invites thousands of visitors to this community-wide block party that boasts extraordinary harvest happenings among seasonal favorites. Here, you’ll find everything you love about fall and fall in love with West Reading’s offerings all at once.
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A Lifestyle Experience Take a trip to experience West Reading’s Fall Fest. Held in the heart of this vibrant neighborhood, Fall Fest is an exciting way to spend a day strolling the diverse restaurants, boutiques and small businesses around Penn Avenue. If you’re familiar with West Reading, you know it’s become tradition to celebrate the season. Around here, the heat of the summer solstice marks the ever popular West Reading’s Art on the Ave and the whole town becomes a Holiday Glow Celebration between Black Friday and Christmas. In between the heat of the summer and the winter holidays, you’ll find Fall Festival on the Avenue. In its 10th year, Fall Fest has evolved into a seasonal celebration that brings a day of live music, children’s activities, arts and crafts and craft beer to its authentic small town scene. This pedestrian-friendly, all-ages event is the best way to truly explore all of what the Avenue has to offer, making it simple and stress-free. Fall Fest is family-friendly from Noon – 5 p.m. that develops into more of a nightlife scene in the evening to close out the day. The happenings here are hosted by the West Reading Community Revitalization Foundation, which works to support this creative place to live, work and play. In addition to its signature events like Art on the Ave, Fall Fest and the Holiday Glow Celebration, the WRCRF is a non-profit that also supports 2nd Fridays, the 2nd annual Car Cruise, the West Reading Farmer’s Market and projects of West Reading Elm Street, like the Cherry Street Mural project and Paint the Town.
ThE IT top of the season! Shop the major must haves of Fall 2016 now.
Accessories Casualwear Special Occasion 700 Penn Ave., West Reading bellajulesboutique.com 610.208.0600
Destination Fall Fest
During Fall Fest, the borough’s Main Street, Penn Avenue, is closed to traffic from the 500-700 blocks of West Reading. Fall Fest is all within walking distance from plenty of free parking that can be found within the area’s side streets and VF Outlet Village. Pack the strollers, pick a landmark to meet friends and maneuver your way through the street’s activities. Sample the streets of West Reading while you’re down here and be sure to check out the Cherry Street Corridor, an outdoor art gallery representing a variety of styles tucked into the neighborhood scenery. For a fantastic experience of the eclectic community, find the Main Stage of music on 6th Avenue. The scenic backdrop will be the clock tower of the Reading Health System and one of the brightly painted West Reading Elm Street neighborhoods in the background. Remember to visit the WRCRF Beer Tent on 6th & Penn to show the love for West Reading.
lovewestreading.org
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FALL FESTIVAL
WRCRF Beer Tent
When Fall Fest first began ten years ago, it predated all of the fantastic beer destinations that are now all in walking distance of one another. Over the last decade, the Fall Fest Beer Tent has become the crowd’s most popular attraction – and the biggest fundraiser of the year for the West Reading Community Revitalization Foundation (WRCRF). The WRCRF is essentially the organization that brings the fabulous lifestyle experiences that the seasonal festivals present to the community. Each year, the Beer Tent holds a lot of big wins, including chances to win extraordinary raffle prizes and a growing selection of beer taps that holds something for everyone. Visit the WRCRF Beer Tent on 6th & Penn and show your love for this community atmosphere! Centrally located at 6th and Penn Avenues, the beer tent offers a close-up of the main stage music with a backdrop of the beautiful community. Over eight different taps of craft and domestic beers – from Budweiser to Oktoberfests to gluten-free ciders will be featured on tap. If it weren’t for the lack of lederhosen, the scene would almost resemble an Oktoberfest – but in its own “West Reading way,” of course.
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NEW!
POWER BARRE with
Hamburger Eating Competition
If you’ve missed the inaugural French Fry Festival, you won’t want to miss the second annual Hamburger Eating Competition. To qualify, participants will have entered a timed eating contest to devour the legendary Tavern Burgers at the West Reading Tavern. The best times will be entered into the competition to occur on the Main Stage at Fall Fest. The first person to eat five Tavern Burgers and an order of Truffle Fries will win $500 cash, courtesy of the West Reading Tavern. While you’re in the area, check out the newly opened outdoor seating area and bar in the garden at the West Reading Tavern. Come out, and see if anyone can challenge the Notorious B.O.B., who holds a record of 9:58!
Live Music
Megan Maslar
Join our newest instructor and dancer, Megan Maslar, at every•body Pilates for Power Barre classes. Combining fitness and elements of dance, Power Barre challenges you, works upper body, legs, glutes and core.
every body
every•body Pilates
Power Barre
PILATES
centering concentration control precision breath flow
a mindful approach approach to to movement movement a mindful
629 Court St., Rear Entrance West Reading, PA 19611 Check our 888-509-1063 website for the fall Power Barre everybody-pilates.com class schedule info@everybody-pilates.com
Ongoing classes
Tuesdays 5:30pm
Local talent has graced the music scene all over Berks County this summer, but one place has all of the favorites lined up for Fall Fest! You won’t want to miss performances by Frog Holler or Grexyn. But wait – there’s more! A side stage of music will be set up on the 700 block. Hosted and produced by local music enthusiast, Matt Cullen, to maintain a seamless sound of music throughout Penn Avenue. #ListenLocal Community Stage, 700 Block - 3 Piece Suit, Earth Diver, David Cullen And more!
Apple Festival
Find free activities and food all day outside of the gorgeous St. James Church at 7th and Penn Avenues. From 11 a.m. – 4 p.m., St. James will host an apple festival with carnival games and prizes, pumpkin decorating and a moonbounce! If you’re strolling the Avenues with toddlers, convenient side street parking connects you to beautiful west-end Elm Street neighborhoods. More details are brewing for the best event yet! Follow Fall Festival on the Avenue on Facebook and subscribe to www.lovewestreading. org for the latest updates on all happenings in West Reading. We are dedicated to carrying nothing but unique, high quality items. Our product selection is quite extensive and you are sure to find something to meet your discerning tastes! mixxboutique.com 610.373.2249 637 Penn Avenue, West Reading, PA
Redeem this coupon for
30% OFF excluding already on sale pieces
lovewestreading.org
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FALL ON THE AVENUES //// events
l l a F
on the avenues
Call ahead or visit websites for latest dates, showtimes and admission info.
Reading 120 Photo courtesy of Darrell Parks
SEPTEMBER Reading 120
Saturday, September 10, 2016, 7am-3pm Downtown Reading and Berks County, PA www.reading120.com The Reading 120 is an international cycling competition that is staking its claim as the greatest single day road race – or Classic – in all of North, South and Central America. The race is one of only seven UCI (International Cycling Union) races in the USA, and is sanctioned out of Switzerland. UCI status denotes the very highest level of race quality, attracting top racers from across the globe. The Reading120 allows you experience a world class sporting event locally with professional riders from all over the world. With the start and finish line in Reading’s City Park there are activities and events scheduled to entice every type of spectator. Live music, a children’s tent, handcycle and youth races and food and drink vendors allow for a day the whole family can participate in. And above all, it’s free to the public.
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Fall Festival on the Avenue
Saturday, September 17th 12-9pm Penn Avenue, West Reading, PA www.lovewestreading.org Enjoy a day of live music, browse the local shops’ sales, art and craft displays, and children’s activities and craft brews in our exclusive beer garden!
The Fourth Annual Night at The Museum
Saturday, September 17, 2016, 7pm-11pm Reading Public Museum 500 Museum Road, Reading, PA www.readingpublicmuseum.org Our annual celebration is back! We celebrate our continuous donors, sponsors, members, and welcome the new. As we celebrate, enjoy delicious food stations, live music from Reminisce, network, and take a peek into the past as you mingle through Pangea bought to us in the exhibition Dinosaurs Around the World: Passport to Pangea.
ONGOING EVENTS West Reading Farmers’ Market
Sundays May-Nov 9am-1pm | Penn Avenue, West Reading, PA www.lovewestreading.org The market offers fresh and locally grown products such as produce, beef, pork, and poultry.
2nd Friday on Penn
Fridays, September 9, October 14, November 11 Penn Avenue, West Reading, PA www.lovewestreading.org The perfect evening to spend on Penn Ave, held each month, year round in West Reading. Sip, savor, and stroll your way down the Avenue and enjoy monthly specials in our charming shops and restaurants, gallery openings, and live music.
Disney’s Camp Rock: The Musical
September 16, 17, 18, 2016 RACC Miller Center for the Arts 4 N. Second Street, Reading, PA racc.edu/millercenter/ Camp Rock: The Musical is based on the hit Disney Channel movies. It is the story of two summer music camps that battle it out for a rockin’ summer that no one will forget. Presented by Reading Civic Theatre.
Reading Symphony Orchestra
September 24, 2016 Santander Performing Art Center 136 N. 6th Street, Reading, PA Santander-arena.com A Grand Night of Music, William Wolfram, piano: The RSO opens its 2016-17 with audience favorites – Gustav Holst’s The Planets, and Rachmaninoff’s Rhapsody on a Theme of Paganini.
Reading: Reorganization of Space
September 24 – December 11, 2016 Reading Public Museum 500 Museum Road, Reading, PA readingpublicmuseum.org This will be an engaging, multisensory art installation by Indianapolis-based artists Quincy Owens and Luke Crawley. Comprised of human-scale, geometric totem-like sculptures combined with “sound art” that will symbolically represent members of the community in Reading, Pennsylvania.
9/30/16
Martin Barre Band
September 24, 2016, 7:30 pm RACC Miller Center for the Arts 4 N. Second Street, Reading, PA racc.edu/millercenter/ Martin Barre has been the guitarist of the legendary rock group Jethro Tull for 43 years and his sound and playing having been a major factor in their success. As Jethro Tull are taking a long break from touring, Martin has put together a band to play the “classic” music from the Tull catalogue. lovewestreading.org
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Sesame Street Live: Elmo Makes Music
Wednesday, September 28th , 10:30 am & 6:30pm Santander Performing Arts Center 136 N. 6th Street, Reading, PA www.santander-arena.com Tickets available at the VF Outlet Box Office at Santander Arena, all Ticketmaster Outlets, charge by telephone 800-745-3000 or online at www.ticketmaster.com
OCTOBER Arts Festival READING
Nobody Does “I Do” Like London Blue
Nobody Does "I Do" Like London Blue
October 1-2, 2016, 10am-5pm GoggleWorks Center for the Arts 201 Washington Street, Reading, PA www.goggleworks.org The arts festival READING is a high-quality show featuring as many as 90+ juried fine artists and craftsmen as well as 30+ GoggleWorks studio artist, demonstrations throughout the buildings, music, and food.
Nobody Does "I Like London B
Agatha Christie’s Murder on the Nile
639 PENN AVENUE, WEST READING, PA 610-378-1111 LONDONBLUEJEWELERS.COM
Nobody Does "I Do" Like London Blue
October 7, 2016, 7:30 pm RACC Miller Center for the Arts 4 N. Second Street, Reading, PA race.edu/millercenter Aquila Theatre, in its 25th anniversary season, stages Murder on the Nile, by one of the greatest mystery writers in world literature - Agatha Christie. This brilliant new production features a masterful Aquila’s clever signature style. 639whodunit PENNand AVENUE, WEST READING,
Black Violin
639 PENN AVENUE, WEST READING, PA 610-378-1111 LONDONBLUEJEWELERS.COM
PA 610LONDONBLUEJEWELERS.COM
Friday, October 7, 2016, 7:30pm Santander Performing Arts Center 136 N. 6th Street, Reading, PA www.santander-arena.com An assortment of voices- different ages, genders, races-speak over a tense, clipped groove. Phrases overlap, offering definitions of a word while a beat snaps and propulsive strings bite and race up and down a scale.
A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum
Our Beer Outlet carries over 300 craft bottles & cans for in house or take out. Featuring Build -Your-Own-6 pack for only $12.99! 31 HD TV’s & NFL Sunday Ticket Tuesday DJ & 1 on 1 Pong Night Wednesday DJ & Doubles Pong Night Saturday Night DJ at 10pm Happy Hours & Daily Drink Specials Full Bar Menu • Eat In or Take Out Full Self-Serve Beer Outlet Self-Se Hours: Monday – Sunday 11AM -2 AM Grill open 11AM – 11:30 PM Delivery: 484.430.3833 Bar: 610-375-8760 Take-Out Orders: 610-375-8761 www.brewersbarandgrill.com 101 South 3 3rd Avenue • West Reading, PA 19611
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Avenues Fall 2016
October 7 - 16, 2016 Genesius Theatre 153 North 10th St. , Reading, PA genesiusdifference.org This musical tells the bawdy story of a slave and his attempts to win his freedom by helping his young master woo the girl next door.
Illuminated Manuscripts: Treasures from the Collection
Monday, October 10, 2016, 11am Reading Public Museum 500 Museum Road, Reading, PA www.readingpublicmuseum.org Drawn entirely from The Museum’s fine collection of manuscript pages, Illuminated Manuscripts: Treasures from the Collection includes nearly fifty leaves- some with elaborate gold leaf decoration and intricate ornament.
Reading Hospital Road Run
Reading Health System, 6th Avenue & Spruce Street Saturday, October 16th 8am-8pm www.rhroadrun.com Berks County’s first Half Marathon! Plus a 5k and 1-mile fun run and fitness walk. Experience the pure joy of the scenic course in the city of Reading, Lower Alsace, and Alsace Township.
Aparna Ramaswamy presents They Rose at Dawn
October 21, 2016, 7:30 pm RACC Miller Center for the Arts 4 N. Second Street, Reading, PA racc.edu/millercenter They Rose at Dawn is a full-evening solo performed by classical Bharatanatyam Indian dancer Aparna Ramaswamy, accompanied by a stellar Carnatic ensemble of musicians, which examines women as carries of ritual.
Costumes on the Corridor
Friday, October 21, 5-7pm Penn Avenue, West Reading, PA www.lovewestreading.org Kid-friendly trick-or-treating up and down the Avenue, followed by Harvest Hayrides at the West Reading Playground at 7pm hosted by West Reading Recreation.
Steve Miller Band
Saturday, October 29, 2016, 7:30pm Santander Arena www.santander-arena.com Steve Miller was a mainstay of the San Francisco music scene that upended American culture in the late 60’s.
Reading Symphony Orchestra
Santander Performing Art Center 136 N. 6th Street, Reading, PA October 29, 2016 www.santander-arena.com Greater Choral Works: Brahms, Leshnoff,Vaughan Williams, accompanied by Peter Minkler,Viola, and the Baltimore Choral Society.
NOVEMBER The Legend of Zelda: Symphony of the Goddess- Master Quest
Friday, November 4, 2016, 7:30pm Santander Arena www.santander-arena.com The triforce has been completed with the highly-anticipated, global tour “The Legend of Zelda: Symphony of the Goddesses.”
Fall at the Miller Center Celebrating 10 years of Excellence Fall 2016-2017 Present this coupon and RECEIVE A SECOND TICKET FOR 50% OFF any of the performances listed in this ad! Limit one coupon per order and must be presented in person at time of order. May not be exchanged for cash.
/Downtown Performing Arts Series / OnIndependent Screen/In Person Film Series South Pacific, Reading Pops Orchestra with Brickhouse Theater SUNDAY, OCTOBER 2, 3:00PM
Aquila Theatre in Agatha Christies’ Murder on the Nile FRIDAY, OCTOBER 7, 7:30PM Aparna Ramaswamy presents “They Rose at Dawn,” Ragamala Dance Company FRIDAY, OCTOBER 21, 7:30PM
Sweet Dreams Lisa Fruchtman, filmmaker TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 27, 6:30PM You Belong to Me Jude Hagin, filmmaker TUESDAY, OCTOBER 25, 6:30PM Love Thy Nature Sylvie Rokab, filmmaker FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 4, 6:30PM
For tickets and information contact the Miller Center Box Office at 610.607.6270 or visit www.racc.edu/millercenter.
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FALL ON THE AVENUES //// events ReadingFilmFEST
Friday - Sunday, November 11 - 13, 2016 West Reading and Penn Corridor ReadingFilmFEST.com Be part of one amazing weekend experience by enjoying your choice of 30 creative, independent films, ten educational filmmaking panels led by filmmaking experts, and eight networking mixers and parties throughout the Penn Corridor. Attend, sponsor, volunteer or submit an entry. Tickets and more info are available online.
Dale Chihuly Venetians
November 5, 2016 – January 8, 2017 Reading Public Museum 500 Museum Road, Reading, PA www.readingpublicmuseum.org This brilliant exhibition of Dale Chihuly’s work is drawn from the George R. Stroemple Collection and includes the master glassmaker’s spectacular Laguna Murano Chandelier and 60 luminous examples from his acclaimed Venetian series, as well as more than a dozen drawings.
The Blind Boys of Alabama
November 18, 2016, 7:30 pm RACC Miller Center for the Arts, 4 N. Second Street, Reading, PA race.edu/millercenter The Blind Boys of Alabama have the rare distinction of being recognized around the world as both living legends and modern-day innovators.
Black Friday & Small Business Saturday
Friday, November 25, 2016 Saturday, November 26, 2016 Borough of West Reading, PA www.lovewestreading.org The official opening day for holiday shopping and more importantly our Holiday Glow Celebration! Find unique gifts, gift certificates and to-me-fromme finds on the Avenue. Special events, hours and sales will be in the Winter issue of Avenues.
DECEMBER Holiday Glow Celebration
Borough of West Reading, PA Visit us Black Friday through Christmas Eve. Special extended Holiday Shopping hours. Special events each Friday. www.lovewestreading.org
86th Annual Tree Lighting Ceremony Friday, December 2, 2016 Delaney Circle, West Reading, PA Santa makes his way to town.Visit Santa and enjoy hot chocolate at St. James Church. www.lovewestreading.org
6th Annual Run Santa Run
Saturday, December 10, 8:30am Penn Avenue, West Reading, PA Join us for our 5k festivities in your “Holiday best”, as a runner or a spectator. Refreshments are provided for runners after the race. Kids run is a 0.5 miles for children up to age 12. www.lovewestreading.org
Mary Poppins, the Broadway Musical
December 9 - 18, 2016 Genesius Theatre 153 North 10th St. , Reading, PA genesiusdifference.org The musical is based on the similarly titled Mary Poppins children’s books by P. L. Travers and the 1964 Disney film, and is a fusion of various elements from the two. It has been a popular choice for schools and community theatres to produce due to the popularity of the film and books.
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mong the shops and restaurants of popular West Reading, Rice Modern Thai Restaurant is a quaint little bistro-like setting that offers modern takes on traditional Thai cuisine. Whether dining inside or outside, the tranquil ambiance is delightful. The décor is simplistic, yet flawless, and you can’t help but overcome a feeling of total relaxation.
When I paid my first visit to Rice, it was very well attended. My friends and I had to wait for a table. We didn’t wait long, however, but were able to sit at the counter which is sort of like an ‘open kitchen,’ if you will. It was a bit of a special treat to watch the chefs in their element as they prepared each meal with the signature, key ingredients. The golden calamari were a fantastic starter; they were gone in just under ten minutes. The calamari were fried with coconut flake batter and topped with crispy coconut flakes, served with a sweet Thai chili sauce. It was a perfect appetizer to split amongst the three of us. My friend Alicia ordered the sober noodle as her entre. The dish consisted of smoky stir-fried jumbo rice noodles, your choice of meat (she went with chicken), egg, broccoli and carrots, all of which was topped with ground pepper. (See image below). I myself went with my personal favorite, the pad Thai. Pad Thai is a stir-fried, thin rice noodle dish inclusive of tofu, bean sprouts, eggs, chives, and your choice of meat or shrimp, all topped with
ground peanut. The food presentations were beautiful, and the food itself was flavorful and delicious. I personally was thrilled with the fact that you can get most dishes either spicy or not- they cater to your preferences which is always a plus. My last visit to Rice was for dinner, but they also have what looks to be a great lunch menu. The lunch menu is available starting at 11am through 2:30pm. Everything on the lunch menu is served with a side house salad and your choice of soup or a spring egg roll. Out of the eight lunch entrees on the menu, four of them have the vegetarian option, again where options are definitely a plus. From the moment we stepped foot inside the restaurant, we were warmly greeted with big smiles. That friendly service carried on over into our dining experience and lasted the remainder of our stay. While Rice welcomes you to bring your own bottle (BYOB), they have a selection of beverages, their yummy Thai iced tea included. Rice is located on the 600 block of Penn Avenue, and they’re open five days a week. For reservations, call the number listed below.
RICE MODERN THAI RESTAURANT 615 Penn Avenue, West Reading, PA, 19611 www.ricemodernthai.com (484)-755-5864 Open Tuesday - Saturday Lunch: 11am -2:30pm Dinner: 5pm-9pm
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COMMUNITY
Welcome
to the Neighborhood! Lisa Tiger, Realtor, Century 21 Gold
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ordering the Borough of West Reading, Wyomissing, by all accounts, is a special place. One of the nation’s original planned communities, the borough boasts a range of residences, superior recreation space, excellent schools, a library and other amenities that make it an enjoyable and welcoming place for people of varying incomes and interests to live and work.
The success of the borough is largely attributed to Ferdinand Thun and Henry Janssen, who were responsible, with some others, for its planning. Partners in business and philanthropy, Thun and Janssen formed an enterprise in the late 1800s that would become an industrial giant. Their three-business initiative, collectively known as Wyomissing Industries, was made up of Textile Machine Works, Narrow Fabric and Berkshire Knitting Mills. In time, the companies grew into a world-class manufacturing enterprise with more than 9,000 employees. With their manufacturing business underway, Thun and Janssen turned their attention to civic matters – namely, creating a community to house their employees and their families. The site chosen for development was 260 acres of land, suitable for both housing and industry. Working with others, Thun and Janssen planned and laid out lots and designed a water system. Building began in 1896, and the borough was incorporated a decade later.
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While Wyomissing often is regarded as an affluent area, the beauty of the borough is, and has always been, its mix of housing stock.
Wyomissing housing still is available to working class families. While Wyomissing does contain pockets where housing prices start at $1 million, it also offers townhomes, single dwellings and condos priced below $150,000.
When the borough was built, houses on the avenues were priced at about $1,000, while those on the boulevards started out at $2,500. Building lots could be procured with a $5 or $10 down payment and paid off in monthly installments.
This makes the borough affordable to people with a wide range of incomes, creating diversity and multiculturalism. A range of housing prices also is available in neighboring West Reading, which shares the Wyomissing School District with the borough.
This enabled working class families to become Wyomissing residents, fulfilling Thun and Janssen’s wish of providing housing for their employees.
Wyomissing real estate retains its value for several reasons. There is quality construction throughout the borough, again a result of the founders’ careful planning.
Avenues Fall 2016
Another factor is that the borough is nearly completely contained, with only three building lots still available. With barely any opportunity for new construction, existing real estate holds its value. Residents and prospective residents are drawn to Wyomissing not only for its housing and attractive, tree-lined streets, but for its quality schools and beautiful parks and recreational areas. I chose Wyomissing to live and raise my family for these reasons, and am grateful for the friends and opportunity that the community has provided. Wyomissing is a welcoming place, available to residents of varying incomes and from different walks of life. It remains what its founders intended for it to be – a community for people to live in, work in and enjoy. Lisa Tiger is a Realtor for Century 21 Gold.
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FARMERS MARKET /// meet the vendor
West Reading Farmers Market
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he Farmers Market has become a staple for many in the local communities of Wyomissing and West Reading. The West Reading Farmers Market is different than most because it is a “Producers Market,” meaning producers buy goods and services and turn them around into a sellable product, which they sell to their customers for the purposes of making a profit. Below is an in-depth look at several of the West Reading Farmers Market vendors. This is a great way to get to know your farmer and learn about why they farm and so much more! We had the pleasure of speaking with Bent Limb Farm, So Good Soups & Salads, Goose Lane Egg Farm, and Deerfoot Vineyards and Winery. Come on by and join us at the West Reading Farmer’s Market every Sunday, May through November, from 9am- 1pm on the 500 Block of Penn Avenue! What is your most popular item sold? For three years, it depends on the particular market. For example, at the West Reading Market, the yarns and finished items are most popular. At the St. Josephs market on Tuesdays, socks are the most popular item sold. -Pam Ellenberger, Bent Limb Farm
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Avenues Fall 2016
Why do you like being a vendor at the West Reading Farmers Market? Our third season at the West Reading Farmers market, its been awesome. It’s funny how different markets provide different clients. -Justin & Liz Lally, So Good! Soups & Salads
What sets you apart from other farmers? Prepared foods such as our salads and soups. Many individuals don’t want to make a whole pot of soup, so they’ll purchase a quart from us. 99% of our ingredients are bought at other farmers markets. -Justin & Liz Lally, So Good! Soups & Salads What’s the most popular question customers ask you? Where are you located -Dan Brown, Deerfoot Vineyards and Winery How do you prepare, store, and cook your products? We make our wine in a barn, which is temperature stable. One portion of the barn is under ground level, so its like a cave. -Dan Brown, DeerFoot Vineyards and Winery Why do you farm? It’s a family based business-Melanie Noss, Goose Lane Egg Farm
How many acres is this farm? 10 acres that I rent from my father -Melanie Noss, Goose Lane Egg Farm Are you a first generation farm owner or has your family been farming in the past? I am a 3rd generation farmer. My father does hay and other traditional products. -Dan Brown, DeerFoot Vineyards and Winery
What time does your day start and end? Everyday varies. My husband and I have two children. For example, on Monday is Chicken butchering. We have two employees which do morning picking and produce. -Melanie Noss, Goose Lane Egg Farm What does a typical day consist of ? On our 55 acres, there is never a typical day. Some tasks include, taking care of the animals, working with fiber, crocheting, teaching classes, and doing paperwork. -Pam Ellenberger, Bent Limb Farm What is the most satisfying part of farming for you? Raising your own food/ animals. I know everything the animals ate. We have apaches, goats, chickens, turkeys, pigs and rabbits on our 55-acre farm. TapRoot Farm located just 4 miles away provides a CSA or organic vegetables. -Pam Ellenberger, Bent Limb Farm
Avenue Art ARTS IN THE COMMUNITY
Judy Ballinger, Art Plus Gallery
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all brings new flavor to the arts on Penn Avenue, West Reading. Begin at Fall Fest , Saturday, September 17, by making your own art in one of the tents in front of Art Plus Gallery,604 Penn Avenue. Try your hand at silk, miniature or mural painting! In October, catch the featured gallery exhibits by a rising young artist and our local silk-painter :
Rachel Hoffman is a 2013 graduate of the Pennsylvania College of Art and Design. Her large imaginative drawings in ink, watercolor or pencil, often present alternative versions of animals, perhaps inspired by a story. You probably won’t see your pet here! Judy Ballinger paints silk in her West Reading home studio. Her October show will feature two recent ventures: 1) A series of silk scarves based on her sketches in Costa Rica last spring, with imagery of the Trees and Fruits of the Cloud Forest. 2) Trees of the Arboretum is her development of patterns observed in the trails and gardens along Wyomissing Creek.
Also on the Avenue: In November, another new young talent, potter Jesse Jones, will display his ceramics as the Art Plus featured artist. At Café BOLD, view the abstract art of Donna Unger in October and Surreal works by Keith Rentschler in November. West Reading Tavern will host the fall Harvest exhibit by Art Plus members. Receptions are held every 2nd Friday, 5-8pm. at Art Plus Gallery.
VF OUTLET CENTER’S FALL FOOD TRUCK FESTIVAL tr foo d
uck festiv al
SATURDAY, OCT. 15 11 AM - 5PM RAINDATE: SUNDAY, OCT 16
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Reading, PA
JOIN US FOR OUR FALL FOOD TRUCK FESTIVAL Variety of Food Trucks to Please Everyone’s Taste Buds! Face Painting, Balloons, and Other Family Entertainment! Live Music from MissBehavin’ | 12-5pm
VF OUTLET CENTER Rt. 222 to Rt. 422E, Exit N. Wyomissing Blvd. | Reading, PA (610) 378-0408 | MON-SAT 9:30AM-9PM; SUN 10AM-6PM facebook.com/vfoutletcenter www.vfoutletcenter.com |
Animal Rescue League of Berks County. will be on-site with adoptable pets.
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LocationReading Hospital 5th Avenue Lobby
Skin & Body Care Gourmet Food Items Homemade Preserves Fresh Wreaths & Holiday Arrangements Holiday Cookies & Candy Home DĂŠcor & Candles One-Of-A-Kind Handcrafted Jewelry
FREE Valet Parking
Join us for Our Annual
Holiday Craft Fair Thursday,
December
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7:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Free Admission/Open to the public All proceeds benefit programs funded by The Friends of Reading Hospital including Patient Comfort Items
For more information visit www.readinghealth.org/holidayhappening.
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