West Reading Avenues Winter 2016

Greater Reading’s hub for arts, shopping and entertainment Winter 2016

y a d i l o H Glow What’s On Tap for 2017?

Who Let the Dogs Out!

and Gift Cardsailable v Packages Aolidays! for the H

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

WELCOME //// from the editor

Welc ome Winter !

W

Sara Braun Radaoui Editor Avenues Magazine

inter is a special time in West Reading, and this issue of Avenues is packed with save-the-date-worthy events and lots of hot spots to explore! This charming neighborhood will be ringing with excitement all winter long.

It’s Holiday Glow season on the Avenues and the West Reading elves have been happily planning an exciting winter calendar.

Our special guide offers you details on all of the events here for your enjoyment. From family activities and date nights to holiday shopping guides – there’s something for everyone!

Ron Rothenberger ron@risquote.com 610-406-5827

Sean Wyandt sean@risquote.com 610-406-5827

Iris Dalia Pantoja iris@risquote.com 610-406-5827 Se habla español

We provide personal and commercial coverage.

In each issue, Avenues keeps you informed about our community, including updates on our residential and business initiatives, with recurring stories from Elm Street Manager Dean Rohrbach and Main Street Manager Christin Kelley. In our Winter issue, Dean offers us a little preview of What’s On Tap for 2017. Christin shares with us a few of her favorite things, Andrea Much provides us with a guide on how to #ShopWestReading Like a Pro, and Ways to Wind Down from the Holidays on the Avenues.

We hope this issue stays with you all season long as a reference guide to the holiday season in West Reading and the extended Penn Corridor. Come see for yourself what all the buzz is about and experience it firsthand!

We look forward to seeing you on the Avenues this winter.

Now is the time to give a truly unique gift!

604 Penn Avenue West Reading, PA 19611 610-375-9122 www.artplusgallerypa.com Winter Hours:

Original Local Paintings,Photographs, Friday & Saturday 12-8pm Sunday 10-4pm Prints, Jewelry, Fabrics, Glass, Ceramics, Weds & Thurs 12- 7pm & a Gift Shop with Closed Monday, (Tuesday from 1/1/17) Small Gifts & Cards

The places to shop for the best gifts of all!

406 Penn Avenue, West Reading

720 Penn Ave, West Reading

404 Penn Avenue, West Reading

610-372-5444

610-373-0960

610-374-5991

639 Penn Avenue, West Reading Nobody Does "I Do" 610-378-1111 Like London Blue

639 PENN AVENUE, WEST READING, PA 610-378-1111 LONDONBLUEJEWELERS.COM

23 South 6th Ave, West Reading 1-800-266-9203

Put Us on Your Wishlist This Holiday Season!

643 Penn Avenue, West Reading

544 Penn Avenue, West Reading

610-376-3837

610-373-2121

• Furs & Leathers for Men & Women • Wools

• Accessories • Sizes 0 to Plus Size

643 Penn Ave., West Reading, PA 19611 www.pollackfurs.com Call for Hours: 800-635-4417 or 610-781-4099

605 Penn Avenue, West Reading 610-685-3996

602 Penn Avenue, West Reading

www.lovewestreading.org

610-334-7668

CONTENTS ////

CONTACT INFORMATION Publisher, Tracy Hoffmann Hoffmann Publishing Group, Inc.

18

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.

All rights reserved. No portion of this publication may be reproduced electronically or in print without the express written permission of the publisher.

West Reading Avenues is published quarterly {Spring, Summer, Fall, Winter}.

IN THE KNOW & ON THE GO 4 New & Improved on the Avenues

RETAILERS PERSPECTIVE 13 Muddy Creek Soap Company

Livin’ the Dream

17 London Blue Jewelers

IN THE COMMUNITY 8 These are a Few of My Favorite Things...

9 What’s On Tap for 2017?

10 Reading Hospital Receives Magnet®

Designation For Excellence in Nursing 12 What is the WRCRF? 14 Who Let the Dogs Out! 16 Relish - Why West Reading?

28

HOLIDAY GLOW 18 Holiday Glow 19 Shop West Reading Like a Local 22 Run Santa Run 23 Holiday Treats 23 A Christmas Party 24 Santa Crawl 26 A Christmas Carol Trolley 28 Wind Down from Holiday On the Avenues

CALENDAR OF EVENTS 30 Winter on the Avenues

DINING SPOTLIGHT 35 Brewer’s Bar and Grill

38 IN EVERY ISSUE 2 From the Editor 43 West Reading Farmers’ Market 45 Arts in the Community

DINING & RETAIL GUIDE 36 Dining Destinations 38 Shopping & Service Experiences

lovewestreading.org

3

IN THE KNOW & ON THE GO //// new & improved

New & Improved on the Avenues NEW ON THE AVENUE

Sensory Concepts Orthopedic & Medical Massage UltraShape New to the Berks County and surrounding areas! Sensory Concepts Orthopedic & Medical Massage is proud to present the UltraShape Treatment which is the latest technology in fat cell reduction using pulsed, focused ultrasound energy. This is a non-invasive painless procedure with no down or recovery time and visible results as early as 2 weeks. Only three treatments that permanently destroy fat cells are needed along with a healthy living lifestyle. Unlike cool sculpting that freezes fat cells and can be uncomfortable and painful, UltraShape leaves clients with no soreness or numbness with very rare side effects. Affordable financing is also available.

Sensory Concepts Orthopedic & Medical Massage

Sensoryconcepts.net 5 Bristol Court Lower Level, Wyomissing, PA 19610 484-509-5505

The West Reading Tavern’s Expanded Space The outdoor dining trend has been on the rise in the last few years, and many of the area restaurants have jumped on board. The West Reading Tavern had the desire to do so, but faced one obstacle: space. Originally, a few sidewalk tables were offered, but Mark and Steve Woodward wanted to do something better for their customers. After acquiring the adjacent building, construction began on an enclosed, outdoor patio. Masano Architects Group, Inc. designed the space, and Golden Oaks Landscaping, Twiford Electrical Services, TLS Carpentry, Inc., Perfect Touch Painting, A.K.A. The Fence Co., Quality Door Service, and Bruce Albrecht Plumbing & Heating worked in unison to build it. Mixed materials of stone, metal, and wood combine to create a beautiful space.

Currently, the patio is open for dinner; future additions will include planters and a retractable awning to enable lunchtime dining. The patio may be entered through the automatic doors in the dining room, and is fully handicapped accessible.

West Reading Tavern

Westreadingtavern.com 606 Penn Ave, West Reading, PA 19611 610-376-9232

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Avenues Winter 2016

IN THE KNOW & ON THE GO NEW ON THE AVENUE

Winedown Bottle Shop Ben Franco of Winedown Café has been looking to expand ever since he bought the space next door, the Distilled Whiskey Room. Winedown is now the only establishment in the Berks County area to receive a wine expanded permit from the Pennsylvania Liquor Control Board. This permit allows establishments that already have a liquor license to sell bottles of wine to go. With this new license in effect, Franco plans to convert the Distilled Whiskey Room into more of a bottled wine shop. Talk about convenience. Keep your eyes open for this exciting new addition to the Avenue!

Pick SOMEONE

Extraordinary!

When Buying or Selling Your Next Home

Representing Buyers & Sellers of the Best Homes in Berks County is Lisa Tiger’s specialty. Her Marketing savvy, Passion for the business, Commitment to her clients and Understanding of the process all work together to quickly match buyers and sellers.

Lisa’s Sales and Marketing skills and Personal Touch make her the Most Successful Agent in Berks County. She also Represents the Best Homes in Berks County.

When you are ready to Buy or Sell, picking the Right Realtor can make a world of difference.

Lisa Tiger

Winedown Café

Winedowncafe.net 622-624 Penn Avenue, West Reading, PA 19611 610-373-4907

LisaTigerHomes.com

610.779.2500 • 610.207.6186 (direct)

New World Jeweler Announces Its Re-Opening

United Artists Salon Merger #UnitedOnTheAvenue

United Artist Salon & Spa is excited to announce that they have taken aboard the full team from Hair On the Avenue since their closing day on August 13th. We congratulate Hair On the Avenue for serving Berks County for 23 years and providing exceptional service to its guests. #UnitedOnTheAvenue is ecstatic to provide a professional and progressive environment for the former HOTA team as well as their guests. They are striving to make the transition smooth for everyone as well as make positive changes to benefit their staff, guests, and community. The UA staff has now doubled in size from 20 to 39! This talented new team looks forward to the exciting future ahead.

United Artists Salon & Spa

www.unitedartistssalon.com 299 Penn Avenue, West Reading, PA 19611 610-376-8481

Justin Bortz of New World Jewelers is excited to announce that they have begun a total remodel of the jewelry store! He is working with his extremely talented friend Chrystal Helms Hardinger on the new interior design. (Chrystal designed The Winedown Café as well as Judy’s on Cherry.) Chrystal is creating Justin’s “dream store,” and after 27 years, they are finally bringing it to life! New World Jewelers is shooting for an early November completion date, and they are so excited!

The store will remain open during the remodeling process.

Justin Bortz New World Jewelers

www. justinbortz.com 438 Penn Avenue, West Reading, PA 19611 610-373-1101

Symbiote Collectibles Symbiote Collectibles is a fun collectibles shop in West Reading! They sell action figures, trading cards, comics, memorabilia, vintage toys, video games and more.

Symbiote Collectibles

www.symbiotecollectibles.com 52 S 5th Avenue, West Reading, PA 19611 610-781-3859 lovewestreading.org

5

IN THE KNOW & ON THE GO //// new & improved

New & Improved on the Avenues NEW ON THE AVENUE

Fine Linez Barbershop

Secrets Bakery

Located in West Reading, Fine Linez Barbershop is your local Barber Shop, providing all kinds of modern and innovative services in hair care. Having worked in hair care and hair design for over ten years, owner Christopher Martinez has experience with all types of hair. He is proud to offer his customers a wide range of hairstyles, treatments, looks and helpful products that reflect their individuality and personal taste. Stop by today!

Secret’s Bakery is a full-service bakery that has custom sweets and treats for every occasion! As the bakery has continued to grow, many items must be ordered at least 24-48 hours in advance, such as cheesecakes as well as large orders for cupcakes. On September 1st, Jess Miller purchased the business. Welcome to the Avenue, Jess!

Secrets Bakery

Fine Linez Barbershop

Secretsbakery.com 602 Penn Avenue, West Reading, PA 19611 610-334-7668

www.finelinez.com 704 Penn Avenue, West Reading, PA 19611 610-413-6169

Painless

Visible Results

No Down Time

3 Comfortable Treatments 2 Weeks Apart 1 Slimmer You UltraShape is the first and only FDA-cleared non-surgical procedure that uses pulsed, focused ultrasound for fat cell destruction. Painlessly & permanently destroys fat cells without harming surrounding skin, nerves, or blood vessels.

Call us to schedule a consultation today!

6

Avenues Winter 2016

5 Bristol Court Lower Level Wyomissing, PA 19610 Phone: 484-509-5505 www.sensoryconcepts.net sensoryconcepts@aol.com

IN THE KNOW & ON THE GO

50 EATING +

CU in

ESTABLISHMENTS

WR!

WYOMISSING

DELANEY CIRCLE

PENN AVE

hotel rooms

SPRUCE ST

FRAN

KLIN

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CHER

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VF VF OUTLET H READING HOSPITAL & MEDICAL CENTER

Explore more than

within an eight block walk.

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100 great retail experiences,

42

2ND AVE

687

7TH AVE

T ST CHESTNU

Enjoy overnight lodging in one of the more than within a 1.5 mile radius of West Reading.

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3RD A VE

CHERRY ST

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READING AVE

4TH AVE

VF

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5TH AVE

different bars, taverns, restaurants and eateries, featuring an eclectic mix of foods, within a walkable 1 mile radius.

READING

MUSEUM RD

Dine at over 50

ROOMS

BEERS

6TH AVE

brewed by more than 100 American Craft Breweries, in a variety of establishments along the West Reading/Penn Corridor.

687 HOTEL

+ 750 CRAFT

8TH AVE

Consume over 750 different craft beers,

EXPERIENCES

PARK RD

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

NORTH

SCOTTISH RITE CATHEDRAL M READING PUBLIC MUSEUM

lovewestreading.org

7

IN THE COMMUNITY

These are a Few of My Favorite Things...

by Christin Kelley, Main Street Manager

M

y best advice t h i s holiday season?

Keep it simple and shop small. You don’t need a mall to make your holidays merry and bright. Instead, recognize all that West Reading has to offer from packing your pantry to stuffing your stockings to celebrating the season – we do it best, with personalized service (wish-lists!) and a smile! I promise you’ll find something fabulous (and super thoughtful!) on the Avenue for that special someone and just one more reason to love West Reading this holiday season. Here’s a round-up of some of my favorite things – to give, to get and to do – that always make the list, even when I check it twice!

8

Avenues Winter 2016

GIVE

Whether you’re naughty or nice, hot or cold, a Hydroflask is the perfect companion to keep your beverage at its best!

In a variety of festive colors and sizes, it’s the perfect fit for the person who has everything, or puts the environment first! Hydroflask, starting at $21.95 at East Ridge Outfitters; 635 Penn Avenue, 844-376-4327; eastridgeoutfitters.com

GET

Handmade in West Reading and handpicked by Allison Clothing Company, these luxurious leather pouches by Asenath Designs are the perfect present to give and to receive! Used alone as a one-of-a-kind clutch (as your favorite holiday party accessory) or partnered with your favorite catch all bag to keep you organized, these pretties prove to be not only pretty but practical. Leather pouches, starting at $37 at Allison Clothing Company; 522 Penn Avenue, 484-709-2563; allisonclothingcompanycom.

GO

Run down a charming main street during Christmas with my friends dressed as Santa? Check! Put the Run Santa Run 5k on your bucket list and join us for this festive fun run during a season of holiday indulgence! With Santa himself at the finish line, there’s no need to stand in line at the mall for your Christmas photo – sign up the kids for the fun run and snap a selfie with the jolly old elf for memories that will last beyond the photo opp. Plus, sample a smattering of delicious foods from our very own neighborhood for your post race grub.

Complete with an elf costume for the first hundred participants, we can’t believe you’re not signed up already!

IN THE COMMUNITY

?

7 1 0 2 r o f p a T n O ’s t a Wh

by Dean Rohrbach, Elm Street Manager

Earth Day Clean Up & Beautification

Saturday, April 22nd. This is a working event not just a celebration.

Volunteers are needed to help clean litter in the by-pass cloverleafs and along Penn Avenue as well as preparing the Community Garden for the growing season with fresh compost and mulch.

Cherry Street Mural Corridor

Beginning in early May visitors can watch or volunteer to apply several murals that were completed over the winter and need to be installed. We hope to add at least three more murals this year bringing the total to thirteen. Our goal is to create an outdoor art gallery with twenty pieces of public art on Cherry Street between 4th and 7th Avenues. These are not typical innocuous urban murals.

Each is a visually interesting work of art created by local artists and students from Wyomissing School District’s Public Art Class.

West Reading Swimming Pool

Art on the Avenue

Saturday, April 17th. This annual event is very popular and draws artists from outside the area to display their work and participate in aPlein Air competition. There are two outdoor stages with free music. Plenty of food and a lot of free activities for the kids making it a family friendly affair.

Annual Summer Block Party & Water Balloon Fight

Saturday, August 19th. This event is aimed at kids and scheduled right before they return to school. It signals the end of summer.

Free food, prizes and the ever popular Water Balloon Fight. In 2016, we had 2,700 water balloons and then handed out 100 super soakers.

And of course you can always come and enjoy West Reading’s unique shopping and distinctive dining in a charming setting along Penn Avenue.

Opens after Memorial Day. It’s safe, clean and a lot of fun with separate wading pool and fountain for kiddies, diving pool, and main pool with designated roped off area for swimming laps.

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.

Chris J. Weikel REALTOR®/Broker (610) 914-3199

Megan Weikel REALTOR® (717) 779-3817

Holiday Hours Nov 6 - Dec. 23 | Mon. - Sat. 10-6/Sun. 11-4

www.WeikelRealtyGroup.com 12A South Fifth Avenue • West Reading, PA 19611 • (610) 816-7404

First choice for clients seeking integrity and high-value services lovewestreading.org

9

IN THE COMMUNITY

® Reading Hospital Receives Magnet Proud to Achieve Magnet Designation for the Highest Designation For Excellence in Nursing Quality of Patient Care and

by Reading Health System

Nursing Excellence

Reading Hospital is honored to announce it has received Magnet designation for excellence in nursing from the American Nurses Credentialing Center Magnet Recognition Program®. This most coveted distinction recognizes healthcare organizations that demonstrate sustained superior patient care, patient safety, and innovation in professional nursing practice. We are proud of our 1,800 nurses and more than 4,000 interdisciplinary colleagues who worked tirelessly to achieve this level of care. This prestigious designation has been attained by only 7% of hospitals nationwide. We know both patients and nurses alike seek out hospitals with Magnet designation, because it is viewed as the “gold standard” for exceptional care. This achievement was completed with one goal in mind — to give our patients the highest level of care they have come to expect and so rightly deserve.

W

www.readinghealth.org

“We are proud to have achieved Magnet recognition,” said Mary hen a representative from the American Nurses CreAgnew, Vice President & Chief Nursing Officer, Reading Hospital.

The phone, Magnet Recognition Magnet Recognition , Magnet names and logos are registered trademarks of the American Nurses Credentialing Center. dentialing Center (ANCC) announced, via thatProgram , ANCC “WeMagnet have tackled complex issues laser on putting our Journey to Magnet Excellence and National Conference are trademarks of the American Nurses with Credentialing Center.focus All rights reserved.

Reading Hospital had achieved Magnet® recognition, patients and families first. This recognition signifies the comthe 200 employees gathered in the hospital auditorium broke mitment to excellence that we strive to achieve every day for our into cheers and a standing ovation. patients and the community.”

Magnet® recognition is the most prestigious distinction a healthcare organization can receive for nursing excellence and quality patient outcomes, and Reading Hospital has worked diligently to implement the processes and procedures that led to this achievement.

10

Avenues Winter 2016

®

®

®

®

®

Reading Hospital received its Magnet designation on Aug. 17, 2016. It joins an elite group of 441 hospitals worldwide and 27 hospitals in Pennsylvania that have received this honor.

Magnet designation indicates to patients that the hospital offers a safe environment with excellent patient outcomes, and it indicates to nurses and physicians that it is a top-quality place to practice. U.S. News & World Report’s annual showcase of “America’s Best Hospitals” includes Magnet recognition in its ranking criteria for quality of inpatient care.

Research shows that Magnet hospitals achieve a high level of patient satisfaction and patient safety; foster a collaborative work environment; and attract and retain top talent because nurses and physicians want to work in a healthy and engaging environment.

Hospitals with a healthy work environment and a culture of safety have lower mortality rates and improved patient safety. For example, studies show that Magnet hospitals have a decreased number of patients who experience falls or conditions such as pressure ulcers.

The Magnet Recognition Program evaluates applicants on five components considered essential for the delivery of superior patient care. The components are transformational leadership; structural empowerment; exemplary professional practice; commitment to advancing knowledge, innovation and improvements; and empirical quality results.

The Magnet culture helps staff develop skill sets that are necessary for problem-solving and developing creative approaches to care delivery. At Reading Hospital, staff members throughout the organization worked together to build cohesive teams, collaborate across disciplines, and engage colleagues in continuous improvement. Together, they pursue a shared vision of excellence.

The Magnet application process is rigorous and includes submitting extensive documentation to ANCC as well as participating in a site visit to validate that the organization has created a sustainable culture of excellence. Reading Hospital submitted its documentation in February 2016 and hosted an ANCC site visit in mid-July.

HOLIDAY CRAFT FEST Black Friday, Nov. 25th 9am-4pm Crowne Plaza Hotel, Reading BODY PRODUCTS • JEWELRY • HOME DECOR CANDLES • STATIONERY • APPAREL • FINE ART GIFTS • ACCESSORIES AND MORE!

DJ • RAFFLES • GIVEAWAYS TRIVIA • SHOPPING

MerakiCraftFest.com

Reading Hospital achieved Magnet recognition with the unwavering support of health system and hospital leaders, board members, physicians, and departments throughout the hospital.

“The hospital has embraced the Magnet model as the best way to systematically and comprehensively improve outcome excellence,” Agnew said. “It has become an integral part of the way we operate, and our patients and the community benefit from that focus every day.”

lovewestreading.org

11

IN THE COMMUNITY

. . . e h t s i t Wha

by Dean Rohrbach, Elm Street Manager

T

he definition of blight is to spoil, ruin, and destroy. It causes urban areas to become run-down and neglected. As recently as the late ‘90s, the West Reading business district was showing its age. Deteriorated curbs, traffic bottlenecks and stagnant businesses were telling a tale and it didn’t have a happy ending. In 1997, the Borough Council recognized revitalization was needed to stem the tide of urban blight and decline. The nonprofit West Reading Community Revitalization Foundation (WRCRF) organization was incorporated in 1997 “to promote the economic rejuvenation of

property and commerce” in the borough. WRCRF is committed to advance the vitality of commercial areas and livability of residential areas in West Reading. It is a partnership of residents, business leaders and government officials – it has a nine-member board with 3 resident seats, 3 government seats and 3 business seats. It is organized around five committees: Executive; Planning & Design; Business Promotion; and the Neighborhood Advisory’s Safe, Clean & Green Committees.

Between 2001 and 2009, the Main Street program invested over $6.3 million in streetscape and property improvements to Penn Avenue using a number of private-sector and government funding sources. The West Reading Elm Street program was created in 2007 to protect borough taxpayers’ investment in Penn Avenue by revitalizing the older residential neighborhoods that share a contiguous border with Main Street. The rational is regardless of the amount of funds invested in Penn Avenue, if blight and crime from the surrounding neighborhood infect the business district, no one will want to go there and it will go downhill. Elm Street has invested another $2.5 million in an eight-square block residential area through programs that create homeowners, improve the housing stock, beautify the streetscape, increase safety and involve residents.

All economic indicators for West Reading improve with each passing year. By focusing on both the business district and residential neighborhoods, West Reading has not just halted blight but reversed it.

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Avenues Winter 2016

RETAILERS PERSPECTIVE

Livin’ the Dream

by Bev Kelly, Owner, Muddy Creek Soap Company

S

ince 2009 I have always had a dream of having my own soap shop instead of making my soaps and products out of my home to sell wholesale, craft shows and on my website.

I knew if I were to open a shop it would be in West Reading on “The Avenue”. I had said to my husband Tom for years, “If I don’t open a soap shop, someone else will!” The thought of that would really upset me! Thank goodness no one else had!

I had done Arts on the Avenue and Fall Fest for the past several years. My friend Jenn Bednez, owner of Sweet Surprises, had let me set up the tent in front of her shop since I was one of her vendors.

It’s A Gift/Woman’s Exchange also sold my products, so I got a great taste of the sheer magnitude of what “The Avenue” had to offer. I had a pretty good following here and knew the potential of West Reading with all the great shops and restaurants that existed.

While my husband and I were Christmas shopping last year, in 2015, at Curious, we were walking out of the shop and Tom said, “Is that a For Rent sign in that shop?” Without hesitation, we called and set an appointment up with the owner the following day. Keep in mind we were not actively looking for a shop, but Tom knew it was a dream of mine. Needless to say we signed the lease and began remodeling.

My dream became a reality February 12th, 2016. Special thanks goes to Tina Shenk and The Love Team who helped me have a fantastic Grand Opening! I never gave it a second thought that I was opening in the dead of winter, and that it might be slow after the holidays. I knew that a soap shop was what the Avenue needed!

What I didn’t know was the West Reading Merchant Association and The Love Team would be such a strong supportive part of my world on the Avenue.

The Love Team and the West Reading Merchants Association have so many events and promotions throughout the entire year to help keep the Avenue vibrant and buzzing, from Wine Walks, 2nd Fridays, Arts on the Avenue, Fall Fest and many more. Being located between The West Reading Tavern and Chatty Monks is also a big perk. And, since my landlords are Mark and Steve from The Tavern, it makes things even better! These guys are great and constantly keeping things exciting here!

Every week I get at least two people coming into the shop that are from out of town who were never on The Avenue, but were referred here from the local hotels or had read about the great things here by reading West Reading Avenues magazine. When you get customers coming back month after month, it’s an awesome feeling to know you picked the right spot to fulfill your dream!

Muddy Creek Soap Company 608 Penn Avenue West Reading, PA 19611

Protection for your most important assets.

Personal Insurance

• Auto / Antique Auto

• Home / Renters

• Recreational Vehicles

• Individual Life

• Umbrella

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lovewestreading.org

13

IN THE COMMUNITY

Who Let the Dogs Out!

Thoughts on West Reading Dog-Walking

By Denise Drobnick

I

left a large fenced yard in Muhlenberg Township for a cozy unfenced yard in West Reading. Dog people know what this means – WALKS. And lots of them. I was initially concerned the hustle and bustle of our busy town might be too scary for my little ankle-biters, but I was wrong. Turns out they are metro-dogs.

Simon & Garfunkel sang the Sound of Silence, but here in town you are more likely to notice the Sound of Sirens, due to our close and convenient proximity to the Reading Hospital and Medical Center.

I always jump, but the dogs, once again to my surprise, are unfazed by ambulances and fire trucks.

I live in the beautiful tucked-away neighborhood behind United Artists Salon, where most homes contain at least one dog. It’s a perfect place for dog-walking, quiet with lush green everywhere.

However my Chihuahuas, Ginger and Louie, prefer their walks Penn Avenue-style and show me by pulling decisively in that direction when we exit the house. Yes, they weigh 6 and 9 pounds respectively, but they can still pull. The sights, sounds, and smells of the Avenue are just too enticing.

The town is wide awake by 6am. Just getting across N 3rd Ave at that hour to start the walk can be a challenge with the morning traffic. Sometimes I scoop the little fur balls up because, at age 10, they are stubborn and pokey. They will plop down in the middle of the street if they feel like it. We see people everywhere. At bus shelters. On morning runs. At Benchwarmers sipping hot coffee. And of course, on dog walks.

In fact Louie stops mid-walk and howls like a werewolf when the whistles go off to show kinship with victims. He feels their pain and gives a doggie shout out, snout facing skyward and eyes closed.

I think he wants to be a fire company Dalmatian when he grows up.

To say our town is dog-friendly is an understatement. Many businesses on the Avenue, such as Say Cheese, East Ridge Outfitters, A Running Start, and Secrets Bakery, put out a welcome mat in the form of doggie water dishes. Say Cheese even puts ice cubes in their water bowls for ultimate refreshment. Pups can often be found at their owners’ feet at our many sidewalk eateries like Bistro 614, West Reading Tavern, Sweet Ride Ice Cream, and Go Fish. Some shop owners, much to the delight of their clientele, bring their own dogs to work. Be sure to visit Bella Jules Fashion Boutique where you can meet Juli Cleaver’s dog, Kaili, or stop by to see local mover-and-shaker Dean Rohrbach with his dog, Ruby, at the West Reading Community Revitalization Foundation.

Also I noticed there’s a dog at the Yarn Gallery that always sounds “yappy” to see us when we walk by. I can appreciate this because mine head to my State Farm office to work with me most days.

The ultimate doggy destination in West Reading is, of course, the Barley Mow Craft Beer House. Owners Peter and Claire Starr along with their charming dog, Avery, play host to craft beer-loving dog people from all over. Your nonaggressive furry friend is welcome here anytime – inside or in the fenced courtyard that was recently doubled in size. I’ve had both chi’s there, but Ginger does best with new people and dogs. On her maiden visit, she amused the other patrons by making an M&M-sized poo upon our arrival. She was nervous that time, but now she feels right at home.

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Avenues Winter 2016

DEPENDABLE and KNOWLEDGEABLE agent seeks customers looking for real PROTECTION and long term RELATIONSHIP. SINGLE, ARTSY LADY SEEKS SINGLE ARTSY GUY. If you love painting, decorating, baking and

Denise Drobnick, Agent 831 E Bellevue Ave Reading, PA 19605 Bus: 610-921-1131 Fax: 610-921-1297 denise@denisedrobnick.com

West Reading is famous for special events where, once again, dogs are part of the landscape. Art on the Avenue in June and the Fall Fest in September are the largest such events. Thousands of people, many with dogs in tow, descend upon Penn Avenue for a day of food, fun, music, and shopping. The Animal Rescue League of Berks County once brought adoptable pets to stroll the Avenue, looking for their furever homes. And A Running Start held a Dog Days of Summer fun run/walk for runners and their dogs, complete with an ARL information table and ice cream treats after the 3 mile trek. The West Reading Farmers Market is another place your dog is welcome. Sunday’s from 9am to 1pm you will find fresh produce, flowers, prepared foods and meats, live music, hot coffee, and dogs everywhere. Your dog will make new doggy friends and get petted a bunch.

Studies have shown petting a dog can lower blood pressure and lift spirits. People smile when they see my dogs walking down the street. Dogs play an important role in society so I’m grateful West Reading welcomes them. They remind us to be the people they already think we are.

Kailie, Bella Jules

FATHER OF EIGH energetic lady. Mus kids, be fit and read in and join the fun. training would be h

ADVENTUROUS C seeks adventurous Please be employe to relocate. Especi black and white tux All responses will b Looking for that Pu

GRANOLA EATING LOVING, WORLD seeks woman of my Must be fit and love and nights outdoors

Look no further.

Having one special person for your car, home and life insurance lets you get down to business with the rest of your life. It’s what I do.

GET TO A BETTER STATE™.

CALL ME TODAY.

I am a resident of West Reading, your good neighbor agent!

State Farm Mutual Automobile Insurance Company, State Farm Indemnity Company, State Farm Fire and Casualty Company, 1101201.1 State Farm General Insurance Company, Bloomington, IL

Shop locally handcrafted gifts, home goods, apparel, original artwork, creative toys, mo and more!

STORE Holiday Hours: weekdays: 10am-5pm weekends: 10am - 7pm Christmas Eve: 10am - 3pm

GoggleWorks Center for the Arts 201 Washington Street Reading, PA 19601 610.374.4600 / goggleworks.org

lovewestreading.org

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IN THE COMMUNITY

Relish - Why West Reading?

R

elish believes in its home town and the people who live in it: we always knew that we wanted to open a hub that celebrates our local fair and traditions, but more importantly we also always knew West Reading was the place to plant our roots.

Relish celebrates two of America’s favorite things, coffee and hot dogs. It is not your average coffee, and we certainly do not sling your average hot dogs.

Our fare is always local, fairly simple and extremely creative. It is our goal to make simple fare pleasurable, and it is our mission to not just preserve our community, but to relish it.

Penn Avenue’s vendors all share a passion – a passion to bring quality and craft back into its goods and services, and Relish wanted to be a part of that.

Not only are the businesses boasting with authenticity, but the clientele that it attracts are similar minded, people who also realize that some of the best things are right in front of us, and those are the kind of people Relish is so excited to interact with every day. We couldn’t be more excited about our journey with West Reading!

Winter at the Miller Center Celebrating 10 years of Excellence Winter 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 / On Screen/In Person Limon Dance Company SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 18, 7:30 PM Troker, Jazz Ensemble TUESDAY, APRIL 4, 7:30 PM Hypnotic Brass Ensemble FRIDAY, APRIL 28, 7:30 PM For tickets and information contact the Miller Center Box Office at 610.607.6270 or visit www.racc.edu/millercenter.

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Avenues Winter 2016

Independent Film Series

Hilleman: A Perilous Quest to Save the World’s Children Donald Mitchell, filmmaker TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 28, 6:30 PM Real Boy Shaleece Haas, filmmaker TUESDAY, MARCH 7, 6:30 PM States of Grace Mark Lipman, filmmaker WEDNESDAY, APRIL 17, 6:30 PM

RETAILERS PERSPECTIVE

London Blue JEWELERS An interview with Tim & Stacy Gallagher When did you open up on the Avenue?

We have been in the same location at 639 Penn Avenue for 21 years. We opened up in 1995 as Stafford & Banks Jewelers, our parent company, and focused on high-end jewelry and oneof-a-kind pieces from the world’s top designers. In 2011, we re-branded and re-merchandised the store under the London Blue Jewelers name, a subsidiary of Stafford & Banks Jewelers.

The name change was necessary to reflect the re-merchandising to a product line that continued to have pieces from the top designers in the world, but to reflect that we now also carried pieces affordable to all. This re-merchandising was in response to a growing sentiment that after the recession, people desired more affordable options.

Why did you choose West Reading?

We chose West Reading primarily because of the eclectic mix of one-of-a-kind retailers and restaurants. We felt these shops mirrored what we wanted to do with our store in terms of offering unique selections that you would not find in an average store or in a mall setting.

What kind of product do you sell?

We work with national designers, including Oscar Heyman, Akiva Gil, Suna Brothers, Davani and many others. We will also custom-create a piece from a vision communicated to us by a customer. We sell diamond engagement rings, from traditional to elaborate, colored stone and diamond rings, pendants and earrings, and we have a large selection of unusual stones such as Paraiba tourmaline, indicolite, spessartite, imperial topaz, and many others. For those having an occasion that requires a more reasonable budget, we offer a wide array of sterling rings, pendants and earrings with genuine colored stones.

What is your most popular item sold?

The most popular items we sell is still the diamond engagement ring. We can create the ring of her dreams in solitaire form or with a diamond halo, diamonds on the band or diamonds in the gallery-work underneath the ring.

What kind of foot traffic do you have?

What should people know about your store?

We treat each and every client that comes through the door with the utmost respect, and try to find their perfect piece or create that perfect piece for them no matter what the budget. We are known for and are extremely proud of our exceptional customer service.

I recall that you recently renewed your wedding vows… tell me more about that.

Actually, it wasn’t a renewal of wedding vows, rather we got married in the store by the honorable Linda Ludgate almost five years ago. We celebrated out marriage with family and friends after the busy season on New Year’s Eve by having an intimate reception. We complement each other and love working together to assist our clients with all of their needs.

London Blue 639 Penn Avenue West Reading, PA 19611

Although we do get impulse buys from people walking along the avenue, we are primarily a destination store where the client comes in looking for a piece which fulfills a specific need for his or her special occasion.

lovewestreading.org

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HOLIDAY GLOW

w o l G y a d i l o H T

he Holiday Glow celebration kicks off on Black Friday, November 25th, the day after Thanksgiving. Start your Black Friday shopping by strolling through the countless boutique shops and restaurants along Penn Avenue. Immediately following the next day, November 26th, is Small Business Saturday. Spend the day, and your dollars, on the Avenue as West Reading rolls out the red carpet for their biggest shopping day of the year! Shops will host endless specials and sales, restaurants boast the best bites to eat and gift certificates to share with that special someone. Don’t forget something sweet to celebrate the holiday season with!

Shop till you drop at 2nd Friday on Penn, Friday, December 9th; shops and restaurants will be open late for you to shop, sip and celebrate the season! The popular and charming carriage rides are available again this year, December 2nd, 9th, and 16th, starting in front of St. James Church from 6-10 PM. Run through West Reading with hundreds of Santa-clad racers in the festive Run Santa Run 5k on Saturday, December 10th – with elf costumes for the first 100 participants! These beloved activities are brought to you by the West Reading Community Revitalization Foundation. Love West Reading this season and celebrate up and down the Avenue all season long!

BLACK FRIDAY

Friday, November 25th

SMALL BUSINESS SATURDAY Saturday, November 26th

CARRIAGE RIDES

Friday, December 2nd, 9th and 16th

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2ND FRIDAY ON PENN

Friday, December 9th Shops open late for Second Friday Holiday Shopping!

RUN SANTA RUN 5K Saturday, December 10th

For all the details please visit LoveWestReading.org!

HOLIDAY GLOW

g n i d a e R t s e Shop W Like a Local

By Andréa Much

W

elcome to a place where retail moments happen in real time. Shop West Reading and discover inspiration, nostalgia, culture and flair within the boutiques and small businesses. The best part? You may wind up taking something home to be treasured or packaged and gifted.

West Reading is just the place to park, shop, dine out and enjoy the experiences a day of shopping the neighborhood will bring you. Escape the lumbering mall scene for fresh, direct retail exchanges taking place in dozens of unique settings. With fifty different service, retail, nonprofit and small business destinations, Penn Avenue has unique offers for anyone on your gift list. See for yourself during 2nd Fridays, or on a Wine Walk night, or during the Holiday Glow season.

The pains of holiday shopping in box stores tend to place us in circumstances in which we’re searching for parking spaces, fighting the crowds and seeing the same old things without the inspiration of new ideas. Retail in real time allows for personalized shopping experiences as opposed to the iciness of online shopping and cringe-worthy shipping worries. Take Amazon off your shopping radar and enjoy the experience of holiday shopping in West Reading. Eat, drink and be merry as you cross gifts off your list!

Ready to shop West Reading like a pro? Here are some ways to shop for those on your list (and some really fabulous finds you may want to put on your own wish list!):

For The Entertainers. . .

It’s a Gift!

720 Penn Avenue

Serveware that has standout style are great gifts for the newlyweds, hostesses and those that love to entertain. An upscale kitchen or dining item that can be used as a piece of art presents timeless beauty. Check the selection of award-winning designs by Nambé and best-sellers like Beatriz Ball and well-known Nora Fleming.

Though it’s the giving season, these items are great for weddings and anniversaries, too. It’s a Gift – A Woman’s Exchange features artisan-made items, of which the store volunteers will happily share with you the story and talent behind each piece of art.

Compleat Baldwin Brass Center 623 Penn Avenue

Ornaments by Baldwin Brass are a known benchmark for quality and craftsmanship for 70 years. These miniature masterpieces are appropriate gifts throughout the year. Stop by for an ornament selection or to see the array of solid brass hardware and goods that will complement any interior.

lovewestreading.org

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HOLIDAY GLOW

For the Foodies. . .

For the Fashion Forward. . .

Go Fish!

619 Penn Avenue

Bella Jules 700 Penn Avenue

Hosting Christmas Eve dinner? Keep your Feast of the Seven Fish fresh and local by shopping the seafood market at Go Fish!

Large and jumbo shrimp platters are also available and you can bet it’s some of the freshest fish around town.

Say Cheese!

600 Penn Avenue

The first stop on the fashionista’s go-to style journey in West Reading is corner store boutique, Bella Jules. The shop is made up of carefully chosen designer styles, denim, dresses and the perfect accessories to complete a night out on the town. There’s lots to catch the eye – whether it be a sparkly clutch, choker necklace, or bomber jacket with sequin detail. Bookmark this boutique for formal styles to jumpstart New Years Eve or keep in mind for weddings and special occasions to come!

Mixx Boutique 637 Penn Avenue

Step into this fabulous gourmet restaurant that boasts a retail artisan cheese shop and discover the endless tasting and pairing possibilities to bring to the table. The market carries more than 75 artisanal cheeses with all kinds of products to complement it, including fruit preserves, infused honey, jams, spreads, hot sauce, crackers, crisps, olives, nuts and mustards. They also have one-ofa-kind cheese boards to serve all the deliciousness.

For the Home Brewer. . .

Mix some beer in with your holiday cheer! Discover a fine selection of craft beers in one of West Reading’s great bottle shops. From pint glasses to bombers to growlers and a selection upwards of 700 beers from more than 100 different breweries, something is to be found for the craft beer enthusiast.

The Barley Mow | 719 Penn Avenue Brewers Bar & Grill | 101 S. 3rd Avenue Chatty Monks | 610 Penn Avenue

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Styles for him and her! Make it a date night and seek a few clothing upgrades at the Mixx Boutique. Introduce your wardrobe to some of the really cool designers that the shop carries. Products offered are high-quality and doable, which you’ll learn through the store’s personalized shopping services.

Jan Rae 612 Penn Avenue

If you need an amazing outfit in a pinch, visit Jan Rae boutique.

Owned by freelance fashion designer Susan Golembiski, the marvelous collection of wardrobe wonders offers layering pieces, key classics and rich hues that are built to last through the years.

Fig & Will 609 Penn Avenue

A gentle consignment shop featuring one-of-a-kind upscale designs by hard-to-find brands. An exciting range of gifts for baby and new mothers. . . including the ever-popular Chewbeads Hawaii jewelry for mom and baby.

HOLIDAY GLOW

For the Eclectic Collectors. . .

Holistic Skateshop 516 Penn Avenue

Size up over 200 skateboard decks and more than 15 brands of footwear including Vans, Adidas and Converse in Reading’s premiere skate shop. Show your love for the raddist skateshop around with private label ‘Holistic’ merch – including tees, hoodies, hats and beanies.

Symbiote Collectibles 52 S. 5th Avenue

Holiday Bonus Points

Kick off the holiday shopping season in West Reading on Black Friday.

Lots of stores will be open early with many great restaurants, eateries (and breweries!) to revive shoppers throughout the day.

Yes, the window shopping is good, but what’s inside is even better! This year, the West Reading Community Revitalization Foundation is once again partnering with Albright College fashion department students for a window decorating contest among the neighborhood storefronts.

Make sure to vote for your favorite for the People’s Choice Award!

Shop Small Business Saturday to support the small businesses that have a big emphasis on the local community and economy.

By December, most shops are open late for extended shopping hours.

Head to West Reading to decompress after work and sneak in some shopping. Boutiques and happy hours await you!

Rather than rush through the motions of last minute gifts during crunch time, feel at home for the holidays and let West Reading be your neighborhood.

New to the neighborhood, Symbiote Collectibles showcases action figures from DC, Marvel, Star Wars, Star Trek, TMNT and Pokemon – to name a few. Scour their toys, comics and collectibles – some earning vintage credibility.

(Don’t just) leave it on a Wish List! Some small businesses in West Reading will keep a wish list for shoppers who find the perfect something in their size or color, etc. Be sure to find out if the lucky one you’re shopping for has already fallen in love with something in the store.

Also check out: 1up Collectibles and The BT Gallery.

Shop West Reading throughout the Holiday Glow season in December and experience horse-drawn carriage rides, the neighborhood tree lighting AND RUN SANTA RUN 5k! With something for everyone, it’s the best time of the year to #ShopWestReading.

Earth Rhythms 641 Penn Avenue

A cultural gifts and musical instrument store, especially for those that don’t want to miss a beat at the drum circle. The blend of hand drum and percussion instruments is perfect for all ages. Among the collection, discover gongs, Tibetan and crystal singing bowls, chimes, crystals and more. Individual percussion lessons are offered by appointment.

Like the Love West Reading page on Facebook to find out what the local happenings are for Black Friday and Small Business Saturday and all throughout the season at your favorite shops and restaurants.

Celtic Myth & Moonlight 641 Penn Avenue

Step into the realm of myth and moonlight and discover a world of fairies, dragons, Celtic jewelry, swords and daggers. This mystical gift atmosphere is where you may find jewelry from the Celtic isles, Pewter goblets and handmade candles to burn during winter’s long, dark nights.

Shop West Reading on Small Business Saturday and make your holiday season glow! Look out for more Small Business Saturday events on the Love West Reading Facebook page.

For gift ideas, follow LoveWestReading on Instagram, Pinterest and Snapchat. Social media gives you a sneak peek of some of the special retail findings you have yet to discover! #ShopWestReading lovewestreading.org

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HOLIDAY GLOW

n u R a t n a S n u R

T

o kick off an energizing holiday season, runners take their mark in front of one of the nation’s top 50 running stores in America, A Running Start, located on the 700 block of Penn Avenue. Led by Sorita Averill, owner of A Running Start as well as Race Director, Run Santa Run loops around the vibrant borough of West Reading – ringing in the holiday season at elf-equality.

West Reading’s Run Santa Run is a winter 5K designed to get you in the holiday spirit! Runners can don their running holiday attire or can register early and secure the elf race costume. This year, the first 100 participants registered will receive an elf costume! The Kid’s Fun Run kicks off the day for young runners up to age 12.

The only run of its kind in the area, the Run Santa Run 5K is for anyone who wants to have fun running and walking through lovely West Reading. Stick around after the race for food and fun with Santa Clause for post race pictures, music, snacks, and the award ceremony.

Awards will be presented to the top three male and female finishers, and to the top three finishers of each age group. Grab a group from work, a bunch of friends, or register your whole family. Great fun and fitness for everyone!

A pre-registration packet will be available Thursday and Friday, December 8 and 9, from 10:30am until 7:30pm at A Running Start.

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The 6th Annual Run Santa Run 5k and .5 Mile Kid’s Fun Run Saturday, December 10th A Running Start, 705 Penn Ave. Registration begins at 8:30am Kid’s Fun Run at 9:30am Run Santa Run 5K at 10:00am On Saturday, December 10th, hundreds of participants will suit up in elf suits and begin a 5k through the beautiful borough of West Reading. The wave of seasonal spirit running through the streets is an audience delight before beginning a day in town. Head to the Avenues to cheer on the many participants running, walking and ringing holiday cheer through the streets closed for traffic! As with any downtown happening around here, the West Reading Community Revitalization Foundation will present a safe and exciting atmosphere, with plenty of activity for all ages to enjoy.

HOLIDAY GLOW

Holiday TreatsHoliday Magic Happens Here!

As we know, the holiday season is one of busiest times of the year. Dolce de Zabala is grateful for the opportunity to be a part of many families’ traditions. This is the perfect time to share our cheer and we do so by warming up our oven and preparing our scrumptious desserts perfect for all seasonal celebrations. Our variety of menu options include a global choice of hot chocolate, classic cakes, apple and pumpkin pies. Our specialty desserts include pumpkin spice vegan cheesecake and white chocolate peppermint pot de creme. Our holiday cupcakes will include gingerbread latte cupcakes peppermint mocha, chocolate joy and vanilla cranberry frost cupcakes. We have a dessert option for everyone. The Dolce de Zabala team looks forward to seeing you and having you visit for a taste of our sweet creations. Happy Holidays!

A Christmas Party

The West Reading Elm Street program will hold its annual neighborhood Christmas Party on Saturday, December 10th at Bethany Lutheran Church, 336 Franklin Street, from 6pm to 8pm. There will be free food, games, prizes and Santa too!

Everyone is welcome to attend an evening full of free Christmas fun! One of the most popular games is musical chairs because cash prizes are given out to the winners. Competition is by age group with prizes increasing in value with Gift Cards from McDonalds to Target, not to mention everyone gets a present from Santa! This is a great way for neighbors to get to know each other better in a fun atmosphere. Knowing your neighbors has been shown to be an effective crime prevention tool.

lovewestreading.org

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l w a r C Santa D

ecember 17th marks the 3rd annual West Reading Santa Crawl. Organized by the West Reading Tavern, the Santa Crawl is designed to promote the bars /restaurants of West Reading in a fun way. People are asked to dress with a holiday theme, such as Santa, Mrs. Claus, reindeer, elves, etc, to make the bar crawl festive. Attendance for the inaugural year was 125 people. That number jumped to nearly 900 in 2015, and this year’s Santa Crawl is expected to have the largest attendance to date. Tickets will be sold (as opposed to signing up with names as in the past) in November, with 3 staggered start times; this will help streamline admittance, and reduce congestion in the bars.

The starting point is in the Fred Astaire Ballroom at 603 Penn Avenue. After checking in with their tickets and receiving wristbands, people are encouraged to bar crawl, at their own pace, around West Reading. A 42-passenger party bus, provided by Chic Limousines, will be available to take people from the ballroom up to 3rd and Spruce and back.

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Avenues Winter 2016

Inside the ballroom, food and drinks will be available, as well as complementary photos by Sure Shot Photo Booth, and music.

Headlining the night will be Bunch A Funk on the ballroom stage.

Everyone with a wristband is welcome to return at 8pm for this funky dance party.

Participants must be at least 21 years of age, and have valid identification. People are encouraged to drink responsibly; they are also encouraged to arrange designated drivers, or use services such as Uber, and taxi cabs for transportation.

HOLIDAY GLOW

Gifts of Inspiration

Museum Gift Shop Open House

H

ave your gifts be the talk of the holiday season with unique items from the Reading Public Museum’s Gift Shop! From hand-made jewelry to beautiful poinsettias, the Gift Shop has it all. To celebrate the holidays, on November 27, 2016 from 12 p.m. - 3 p.m., the shop is giving a 10% discount for Non-Members and a 20% discount for Museum Members on all purchases made. For every $10 spent (excluding tax), visitors will receive one entry to a raffle item. There is no need to be present for the drawing to win. Free gift-wrapping and light refreshments will also be available! No purchase of Museum Admission necessary. Come join us at the Reading Public Museum this holiday season!

lovewestreading.org

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HOLIDAY GLOW

A Christmas Carol Trolley B

ack By Popular Demand the Pennsylvania Dutch A Christmas Carol Trolley Rolls Into West Reading Once Again!

Join Us For Our Third Big Year! Lead Sponsor - The West Reading L.O.V.E. Team, and Solve IT Solutions, Fecho Theatrical, Genesius Theatre, Ridgewood Winery, Tina’s Salon and Day Spa, David’s Cleaning, United Artists Salon and Spa, Justin Bortz Jewelers, Go2997.com, and Derek Sheldon, are set to present once again the Pennsylvania Dutch “A CHRISTMAS CAROL” aboard the old fashioned Rhoads Christmas Trolley, opening on Friday, November 25th. Since its debut in 2014 this wondrous traveling show has played to standing room only and has delighted audiences of all ages.

‘Tis the Season, and Berks County is being treated by the L.O.V.E Team of West Reading and Solve IT Solutions, to one of the most unique CHRISTMAS CAROLs, ever presented. Take a ride back in time as this delightful interactive family entertainment, with a PA Dutch twist, unfolds around the Holiday Glow of charming West Reading and Ridgewood Winery. The audience boards the trolley at the Winery on Rt. 724 and is transported back in time to the streets of Olde West Reading Towne. Scrooge himself plays the surly emcee of this delightfully fun and wonderfully homespun treatment of the Charles Dickens’ classic. With a heart locked up tighter than a cash box, Scrooge encounters the visits of four spirits at various West Reading businesses, for the chance to open up his heart and relish in the joys of his fellow man. Children and adults love it, giggling between the comedy and the dramatic twists, as they also get a mini-tour of West Reading.

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The Trolley departs from the Winery to West Reading, with Ebenezer Scrooge and Bob Cratchit in tow, as they begin to spin the time-honored tale for the trolley audience. When the trolley gets to West Reading the entertainment will be in full swing and it will make several stops at various West Reading businesses to meet other characters and further the storyline. At each participating business, guests will be offered complimentary snacks or non-alcoholic drinks.

As old Scrooge begins to find some faith and trust in his fellow man and is reminded what a blessing each day of life is, the trolley wends its way back to Ridgewood Winery as the trolley audience, Scrooge and Cratchit sing Christmas carols in the spirit of the very special holiday. When the audience returns to the winery, they are welcomed back into the farmstead to purchase wines to take home.

The Trolley Event is the brainchild of producer L J Fecho, owner and founder of Fecho Theatrical and Artistic Director of Genesius Theatre. Fecho adapted the script from the book by Charles Dickens. The interactive show has a cast of 6 actors, who play multiple roles and even audience members are called upon to portray various characters.

HOLIDAY GLOW The Trolley starts the day after Thanksgiving, November 25th, and runs through December 23 with two performances each evening at 5:45 PM and 7:30 PM, and special matinee performances at 3:30 PM on select dates. Wine tasting at Ridgewood Winery will begin 45 minutes before show times.

For tickets and information please visit GenesiusDifference.org or call 610-373-9500 - $41.50 Adults and $30.00 Children under 18 (plus credit card fees). Children ages 4 and younger can ride for free if they sit on a parent’s lap. The Price Includes: A complimentary wine tasting at Ridgewood Winery (non-alcoholic beverages available), the trolley ride, the full story of A Christmas Carol acted out by professional actors, and special treats, gifts, and discount coupons from participating West Reading businesses.

The Trolley is climate controlled, for your comfort, and runs rain or shine. We suggest everyone dress for the weather! This show is G-Rated. ***The Trolley is NOT wheelchair accessible and if you have trouble walking or getting up and down steps this program may not be for you.

Ridgewood Winery is located at 2039 Philadelphia Avenue, Birdsboro, PA 19508, just off the 422 bypass and Morgantown Expressway at the intersection of E Pointe Drive and Route 724.

lovewestreading.org

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HOLIDAY GLOW

n w o D Wind nues e v A e th n O y a d i l o H from

By Andréa Much

W

hether you’re home for the holidays or seeking a relaxing escape, there is a wealth of holistic services and ways to unwind on the Avenues that will keep you feeling sane throughout the season!

Reiki & Meditation

Detox

Strengthen, stretch and enhance your physical body, willpower and well-being at Bikram Yoga. More than a hot yoga practice, Bikram yoga, as a preventive and alternative practice has the power to highly effective results quickly. Step into the 110°F room (with a bottle of water!) and eliminate holiday toxins through the grace of sweating. Looking for a less-warming practice? Head to another great yoga studio in the area: Shri Yoga and Wellness Center |511 Reading Avenue The Yoga Inlet | 734 Penn Avenue Bldg7 | 220 N. Park Road

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Avenues Winter 2016

Take a time-out on the Avenue and discover a guided, self-healing experience at a wellness and healing studio, like Integrative Healing Arts Studio. Christina Rossi, L.M.T., NCTMB, HHP, Reiki Master and owner of Integrative Healing Arts Studio, West Reading, PA has more than a decade of experience in the realm of the healing arts. Feel the energy within you and around you change while this gentle mind/body reset manifests for days and weeks ahead.

Integrated Healing Arts Studio | 611 Penn Avenue

Rhythm & Dance

Feel what happens at the beat of your own drum. A wide range of drumming classes, workshops, circles and lessons is offered weekly and by appointment. Get in rhythm at the global marketplace, Earth Rhythms, Penn Avenue.

Earth Rhythms | 641 Penn Avenue

Fall into step by walking in and dancing out of the Fred Astaire Dance Studio at 603 Penn Avenue. A great way to stay fit at any age, dance lessons are great for upcoming weddings and New Year’s resolutions! Cultivating the next generation of dancers, Monarch Dance Studios, located above the Fred Astaire Dance Studio, offers childrens dance lessons that increase muscle strength and balance while improving concentration and discipline.

Fred Astaire Dance Studio | Monarch Dance Studio 603 Penn Avenue

Incense, Peppermint

It’s a pleasure to burn sweet and sacred aromas of incense. Take home a token box of incense that combines aromatic plants with essential oils that may differ between underlying cultural purposes.

With these, let your mind release, unwind, deepen and strengthen to new levels. Shop a few different stores to find the aroma that appeals most to you.

Allison Clothing Co. | 522 Penn Avenue Dragonfly Studios and Gallery | 398 Penn Avenue Paisley Moon | 607 Penn Avenue

Treat Yourself

Warm up those fingers and toes with a relaxing manicure and pedicure this winter. Or scrub the holiday season off of your tired bones with an invigorating body treatment. Full service salon and spas, like United Artists, Tina’s Salon and Day Spa and Salon Avanti, to name a few, specialize in beauty services that will help you feel your best inside and out.

United Artists Salon & Spa | 299 Penn Avenue Tina’s Salon and Day Spa | 404 Penn Avenue Salon Avanti | 548 Penn Avenue

12/31/16

Winedown

Because you deserve it. Sorry, was there a question? How to wind down from the holidays? Drop the ‘d’ and add an ‘e.’ At winedown café and wine bar you’ll find reds, whites, bubbly, beers and the distilled whiskey room next door. It’s perfect for pairing carefully selected wines and well-crafted small plates in a modern atmosphere.

Winedown Café and Wine Bar | 622 Penn Ave.

lovewestreading.org

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WINTER ON THE AVENUES //// events

r e t n i W on the avenues

NOVEMBER

DECEMBER

Floyd Final Friday Music Shows

Holiday Tree Lighting

Neag Planetarium Reading Public Museum, 500 Museum Road, Reading, PA 19611 November 25 @ 7 pm On the last Friday of each Month, the Neag Planetarium presents exciting full-dome digital visuals set to the music of classic rock acts like Pink Floyd.

7 p.m. SonicVision 8 p.m. Pink Floyd: Dark Side of the Moon 9 p.m. Pink Floyd: The Wall 10 p.m. Pink Floyd: Dark Side of the Moon

Delany Circle, West Reading, PA 19611 December 2 @ 6 pm Don’t miss out on West Reading’s 88th annual Holiday Tree Lighting event! There will be a special appearance by Santa and Mrs. Claus, and entertainment provided by the Wyomissing Area School District Music Department. There will be performances by Berks Ballet and the Scottish Rite Cathedral. Following the tree lighting, stop by St. James Church located on the 600 block of Penn Avenue for refreshments and pictures with Santa and Mrs. Claus.

Black Friday

West Reading, PA 19610 November 25 The Holiday Glow celebration kicks off on Black Friday, November 25th, the day after Thanksgiving. Start your Black Friday shopping by strolling through the countless boutique shops and restaurants along Penn Avenue. Check out the wide selection of shops at the VF Outlet Center. Come out and shop ‘til you drop!

Small Business Saturday

November 26 Spend the day, and your dollars, on the Avenue as West Reading rolls out the red carpet for their biggest shopping day of the year.

Shops will host endless specials and sales, restaurants boast the best bites to eat and gift certificates to share with that special someone.

Don’t forget something sweet to celebrate the holiday season with!

Gift Shop Open House

Reading Public Museum, 500 Museum Road, Reading, PA 19611 November 27 @ 12 pm Have your gifts be the talk of the holiday season with unique items from the Reading Public Museum’s gift shop! From hand-made jewelry to beautiful poinsettias, they have it all! To celebrate the holiday season, the shop is giving a 10% discount for non-members and a 20% discount for museum members on all purchases.

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Avenues Winter 2016

Carriage Rides

St, James Parish of Reading City Church, 644 Penn Avenue, West Reading, PA 19611 December 2, 9, and 16 @ 6 pm The popular carriage rides are back and available again this year starting in front of St. James Church! Bundle up and come see what the buzz is about! This beloved activity is brought to you by the West Reading Community Revitalization Foundation.

Call ahead or visit websites for latest dates, showtimes and admission info for all events.

She expects very little this year.

So get her two littles.

You can surpass expectations once again!

A Night in Venice

Reading Public Museum, 500 Museum Road, Reading, PA 19611 December 3 @ 6 pm Join the Reading Public Museum for a special evening as they celebrate Dale Chihuly’s Venetians, and transform the second floor galleries into Venice. Dine in the European and Founders’ Galleries and feel as though you have been whisked away to Venice. A cocktail reception and formal dinner will be served in an intimate setting paired with wonderful wines.

Open Sunday, December 18 12-5pm

TubaChristmas

Scottish Rite Cathedral, 310 S Seventh Avenue, West Reading, PA 19611 December 3 @ 7 pm Lots of model train displays of all sizes and gauges.

There will be a display of decorated trees, Live Nativity, entertainments, refreshments, games, clowns and balloon sculptures, and of course, SANTA CLAUS.

601 Penn Avenue | West Reading | 610-372-0019

A Charlie Brown Christmas

St. James Parish of Reading City Church, 644 Penn Avenue, West Reading, PA 19611 December 4-18 A Sunday morning series

It’s where they help builders.

It’s where we make decisions.

Deb and Tom Kearse, Owners Kohl Building Products

Second Friday on Penn

Penn Avenue, West Reading, PA 19611 December 9 @ 5pm Shop till you drop at 2nd Friday on Penn! The shops and restaurants will be open late for your convenience to do your holiday shopping. Come out to sip and celebrate the season!

Locally focused. A world of possibilities.

VISTBank.com lovewestreading.org

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WINTER ON THE AVENUES //// events Kids Night Out

Reading Public Museum, 500 Museum Road, Reading, PA 19611 December 9 @ 6 pm These hands-on evenings is just for kids! Each night features a different topic and kids get to enjoy gallery time, make crafts to take home, and more! Each program runs from 6-9pm and are for ages 6-12. Pizza dinner and an evening snack are included!

Reading Choral Society with the Ringold Band

Scottish Rite Cathedral, 310 S Seventh Avenue, West Reading, PA 19611 December 10 @ 7 pm

A Pops Holiday with Berks Youth Chorus

Miller Center for the Arts, 4 North Second Street, Reading, PA 19601 December 11 @ 3 pm The Reading Pops Orchestra returns to a traditional holiday program with special guests, the Berks Youth Chorus. Highlights include ‘Three Holiday Songs’ composed by John Williams for the Home Alone Movie Series as well as the traditional audience sing-along.

Come welcome the holiday season with this special family program!

Capathia Jenkins in Reading

Scottish Rite Cathedral, 310 S Seventh Avenue, West Reading, PA 19611 December 15 @ 8 pm Pittsburgh Symphony Holiday Pops at Scottish Rite Cathedral.

Run Santa Run 5K

A Running Start, 705 Penn Avenue, West Reading, PA 19611 December 10 @ 10 am Run through West Reading with hundreds of Santa-clad racers in the festive Run Santa Run 5k– with elf costumes for the first 100 participants! To kick off an energizing holiday season, runners take their mark in front of one of the nation’s top 50 running stores in America, A Running Start. Led

by Sorita Averill, owner of A Running Start as well as Race Director, Run Santa Run loops around the vibrant borough of West Reading- ringing in the holiday season at elf-equality.

Santa at The Museum with Carolers!

Reading Public Museum, 500 Museum Road, Reading, PA 19611 December 11 @ 11 am Swing into the holiday spirit by visiting Santa all while enjoying Christmas caroling throughout the day! Pictures with Santa are available for purchase from Dave Zerbe Studio of Photography.

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Avenues Winter 2016

The Nutcracker

Scottish Rite Cathedral, 310 S Seventh Avenue, West Reading, PA 19611 December 17 @ 1 pm & 6 pm December 18 @ 2 pm The Scottish Rite Cathedral invites you to join them and the Berks Ballet for this magical holiday tradition! Nearly every measure of Tchaikovsky’s score is filled with dancing of very consistent, high-quality throughout, with choreography that is rich in detail. This version of The Nutcracker may be Berks Ballet Theater’s best yet!

Sensory Morning at the Museum

Reading Public Museum, 500 Museum Road, Reading, PA 19611 December 19 @ 9 am The Reading Public Museum strives to be a place of life-long learning and enjoyment for guests of all ages and abilities. Because of this, they will be hosting special sensory hours! The morning will feature their latest traveling exhibit, Thomas and Friends: Explore the Rails, and each family will receive a pre-visit packet with information to share with their child.

Victorian Christmas Eve Service

St. James Parish of Reading City Church, 644 Penn Avenue, West Reading, PA 19611 December 24 @ 3 pm & 5 pm Join the St. James Parish of Reading for the most festive time of the year for a gathering that includes carols, candlelight, live Celtic music and more!

JANUARY Fire + Ice Fest

Reading Downtown Improvement District 645 Penn Street, 5th Floor, Reading January 13 & 14 @ 5 pm From ice-carving competitions to EXTREME interactive ice sculptures and live music, Reading Fire + Ice Fest has something for everyone! Sip on some hot cocoa and nibble on s’mores while listening to live outdoor music. There will be a variety of food trucks on site to keep you fueled throughout the festival!

Admission to outdoor activities at Reading Fire + Ice Fest is free. Nominal admission fees will be required for special events.

The Spin Stops Here Tour

Santander Arena, 700 Penn Street, Reading, PA 19602 January 14 @ 5 pm The Spin Stops Here Tour 2017 with Bill O’Reilly, Dennis Miller and Jessie Watters.

John Cleese Live on Stage with a Screening of Monty Python and the Holy Grail

Santander Performing Arts Center, 136 North 6th Street, Reading, PA 19602 January 15 @ 7:30 pm Living comedy legend, JOHN CLEESE, is heading in your general direction for a live and truly unforgettable evening of conversation and audience Q&A. Absurd and/or ridiculous questions only are requested, please. John will tell stories of his life and career and you just may finally find out the air-speed of an unladen swallow. Before John silly walks his way on to the stage, the excitement will build as the audience will get to watch Monty Python and the Holy Grail in its entirety on the big screen. Don’t miss your chance to see the man who has achieved nothing short of comedy royalty in this thrill-of-a lifetime evening.

622-624 Penn Ave West Reading, PA 610-373-4907 Winter Jam Tour Spectacular

Santander Arena, 700 Penn Street, Reading PA, 19602 January 19 @ TBD The annual multi-artist extravaganza—one of the world’s leading first quarter tours—Winter Jam 2017 is set to showcase 10 of Christian music’s best and brightest artists: multi GRAMMY®-nominated singer/songwriter Crowder; Top 40 hit-maker and GRAMMY®-nominee Britt Nicole; Dove Award-winning fan favorites Tenth Avenue North; breakout pop/hip-hop recording artist Andy Mineo; Dove Award-winning singer/songwriter and “American Idol” finalist Colton Dixon; best-selling rockers Thousand Foot Krutch; and GRAMMY®-nominated Winter Jam creators and tour hosts, NewSong. In addition, the Pre-Jam Party, sponsored by Israel: Land of Creation, will feature OBB, Sarah Reeves and Steven Malcolm. The tour will also be highlighted by a special appearance from “Duck Dynasty” television star Sadie Robertson, as well as a message from acclaimed author, speaker and evangelist Tony Nolan.

Pirates of Penzance New York Gilbert & Sullivan Players

Miller Center for the Arts, 4 North Second Street, Reading, PA 19601 January 22 @ 3 pm The New York Gilbert & Sullivan Players return with this encore presentation of Pirates of Penzance! This exuberant musical theater masterpiece, directed and conducted by Albert Bergeret with choreography by Bill Fabris, is performed in its original format. Come see why the New York Times declares, “… the very model of a modern Savoy company, with generous simplicity, brute charm and neat self-mockery. They’ve got it right.”

lovewestreading.org

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WINTER ON THE AVENUES //// events

Mark Your Calendars!

27th Annual Berks Jazz Festival March 31- April 9

FEBRUARY The Dinner Series

Reading Public Museum, 500 Museum Road, Reading, PA 19611 February 16 @ 5:30 pm Step back in time, journey across an ocean or peek into another culture… in style. The Reading Public Museum offers you this alluring series of sophisticated dining opportunities. The senses are stirred by pairing the culinary talents of some of the area’s best chefs, restaurants and catering experts with artworks and objects from the Museum’s collections and special exhibits.

José Limón Dance Company

Miller Center for the Arts, 4 North Second Street, Reading, PA 19601 February 18 @ 7:30 pm Founded in 1946 by José Limón and Doris Humphrey, the Limón Dance Company has been at the vanguard of American modern dance since its inception and is considered one of the world’s greatest dance companies. Led by newly appointed Artistic Director Colin Connor, the company’s repertory is unparalleled in its breadth and includes classic works along with new commissions from contemporary choreographers. The Limón dance technique is taught in university dance departments around the globe, serving as a fundamental movement language for generations of dancers.

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Avenues Winter 2016

The 27th Annual Berks Jazz Festival will feature a range of musical styles that spans the spectrum of Jazz, Blues and R&B. Each year the festival continues to grow- over 50,000 people join in all the fun traveling from all over the United States! The Jazz Fest committee is busy finalizing artists for the 2017 Jazz Fest. The Fest will announce confirmed artists periodically prior to the official announcement.

The annual Berks Jazz Fest is presented by Berks Art Council, located in Reading, PA. The mission of Berks Art Council is to cultivate, promote and support the arts in our community through collaboration, education and presentation.

DINING SPOTLIGHT

Brewer’s Bar and Grill

by Sara Braun Radaoui

B

rewer’s Bar and Grill is a hoppin’ sports bar and restaurant that features 13 revolving craft beer taps. Brewer’s takes you back deep into the history of Reading Breweries before and after Prohibition. Memorabilia from these decades can be found adorning every wall. Formerly known as Kaley’s Corner, a complete renovation has made Brewer’s Bar and Grill the spot to be!

At Brewer’s they are all about BIG selection. Their beer outlet carries over 250 craft bottles and cans for in house or take-out!

For only $12.99, you can build your own 6-pack. If beer is not your thing, the staff ’s seasonal cocktails are mouthwatering, along with an appetizing food menu that complements any drink choice.

Brewer’s Bar and Grill far exceeds the expectation of a sports bar. This place is a bit of a dive, but in the most charming way.

The burgers here are phenomenal, and anyone that knows me knows that I’m picky about my burgers. They have to be charcoal grilled (or at least taste like it), simple and served on a great bun. The meat, grilled onions and the gruyere cheese were all memorably delicious. Attached to the bar is a small beer store, and I picked up 4 more craft beer selections that I’d never experienced to bring home with me. The servers are not only friendly, but very knowledgeable about the beer and their menu. Service is never shy of excellent here at this sports bar. Brewer’s, a cool spot with a plethora of choices, will always be one of my favorite hangouts. Stop in for a bite to eat or to check out their happy hours and daily food/drink specials!

Brewer’s Bar and Grill 101 South 3rd Avenue West Reading, PA 19611 610-375-8760

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DINING EXPERIENCES

DINING DESTINATIONS 3rd & Spruce Café

Chen Vegetarian House

Ady Cakes

Chicken Supreme & Sammy’s Steaks

Casual Bar & Restaurant 238 S 3rd Avenue 610-376-5254 Cakes & Cupcake Treats 631 Penn Avenue 610-898-4064

Aladdin Mediterranean Restaurant Authentic Mediterranean Cuisine 401 Penn Avenue 610-685-6677

Benchwarmer’s Coffee Co.

Coffee and Chocolate Shop 400 Penn Avenue 610-374-2326

Bistro 614

Judy’s on Cherry

Mediterranean-Inspired Fine Dining Restaurant 322 Cherry Street, Reading 610-374-8511

La Abuela

Chicken, Ribs, Seafood & Sandwiches 410 Penn Avenue 610-376-6149

Authentic Mexican Cuisine 448 Penn Avenue 484-509-5778

Courtyard by Marriott American Bistro & Bar

Let’s Taco Bout it

American Bistro & Bar 150 N. Park Road, Wyomissing 610-378-1137

Dolce de Zabala

Sweet Treats & Beverages 711 Penn Avenue 610-373-4455

Latin American and Mexican Cuisine 616 Penn Avenue 484-926-2230

Mi Casa Su Casa Café

Authentic Caribbean Cuisine 320 Penn Street, Reading 610-375-1161

Mike’s Taste of Philly

Contemporary Continental Gourmet Cuisine 614 Penn Avenue 610-375-9900

El Morro Café

Family Style Restaurant 36th North 6th Avenue 610-927-6292

Philly Style Cheesesteaks & Sandwiches 449 Penn Avenue 610-898-1331

Bloomin Lotus Café

Georgio’s Pizza

Authentic Italian Restaurant 148 Tulpehocken Avenue 610-374-5733

Brewer’s Bar and Grill

GNA Italian Ristorante Pizzeria

Café & Deli 426 Penn Ave 484-755-5612

Sports Bar & Restaurant 101 S 3rd Avenue 610-375-8760

Building 24

Restaurant, Bar & Nightclub 1115 Bern Road, Wyomissing 610-375-2700

Café Bold

Café & Coffee Shop 550 Penn Avenue 484-651-1049

Chatty Monks Brewing Company

Ale House Pub 610 Penn Avenue 484-818-0176

Chef Alan’s American Bistro

Mediterranean-Infused American Bistro 525 Penn Avenue 610-375-4012

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Chinese & Vegetarian Restaurant 709 Penn Avenue 610-374-2288

Avenues Winter 2016

Pizza, Sandwiches & Italian Restaurant 500 Penn Avenue 610-750-7199

Authentic Fine Dining Italian Restaurant, Take-out Service & Bar 421 Penn Avenue 610-376-1155

Go Fish! Seafood Market & Sushi Bar

Seafood, Sushi Bar & Seafood Market 619 Penn Avenue 610-376-6446

Great Wall Chinese Restaurant Chinese Cuisine 532 Penn Avenue 610-685-8585

Jimmie Kramer’s Peanut Bar

Traditional American Restaurant & Bar 332 Penn Street, Reading 610-376-8500

Mom Chaffee’s Cellarette

Nonno Alby’s Brick Oven Pizza

Handcrafted Wood Oven Pizza Restaurant 701 Penn Avenue 610-376-1011

Panevino

Rustic, Regional Italian Cuisine 25 N. 2nd Street, Reading 610-376-1101

Relish

Hot Dog and Coffee Shop 715 Penn Avenue 484-599-0636

RICE Modern Thai Restaurant

Modern Thai Cuisine 615 Penn Avenue 484-755-5864

Say Cheese!

Restaurant & Cheese

Artisanal Cheese Shop & Full-Service Restaurant 600 Penn Avenue 610-406-5390

Secret’s Bakery

The Distilled Whiskey Room Whiskey Bar & Restaurant 624 Penn Avenue 610-373-4907

24-Hour Diner 411 Penn Avenue 610-376-5565

The Speckled Hen

Van’s Café

West Reading Tavern and Restaurant

Custom Cakes & Cupcakes Bakery 602 Penn Avenue 610-334-7668 Cottage Pub & Alehouse 30 S. 4th Street, Reading 610-685-8511

Subway

Subs & Salad Fast Food 450 Penn Avenue 484-709-2198

Sweet Ride Ice Cream, LLC

Dessert and Ice Cream Parlor 542 Penn Avenue 484-987-7338

Taste of Crepes

European Crepes Restaurant 617 Penn Avenue 610-685-2001

The Barely Mow Craft Beer House Craft Beer House 719 Penn Avenue 484-926-2094

Authentic Vietnamese Cuisine 506 Penn Avenue 610-741-6466

West Reading Diner

Restaurant & Tavern 606 Penn Avenue 610-376-9232

ViVÁ Bistro & Lounge

Willoughby’s on Park

Contemporary EuroMediterranean Bistro & Bar 901 Hill Avenue, Wyomissing 610-685-5299

Steaks, Seafood & Cocktails 305 North Park Road, Wyomissing 610-816-7473

Well Dressed Cake LLC

Winedown Café & Winebar

Cakes & Cookie Treats 713 Penn Avenue 610-376-2253

Wine Bar & Restaurant 622 Penn Avenue 610-373-4907

Wendy’s Old Fashioned Hamburgers

The Works American Restaurant & Bar

Fast Food 622 Penn Avenue 610-373-4907

American Restaurant & Bar with Gameroom Arcade 1109 Bern Road, Wyomissing 610-375-2700

VISIT OUR OTHER

Holiday Destination

Party must spend over $750 on food and beverage.

Gift certiicate valid January 2 - March 31, 2017.

332 Cherry St, Reading judysoncherry.com 610-374-8511

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SHOPPING

SHOPPING & SERVICE EXPERIENCES 1-Up Collectibles

Celtic Myth and Moonlight

Bella Jules

Charming Nails

Berks Security Locksmith Services

Cheryl Miller DDS

Bikram Yoga West Reading

Commonwealth Auto Tags

Bold Realty, LLC

Compleat Baldwin Brass Center

Orthodontist 311 Penn Avenue 610-376-3956

Advance Homehealth Care

Stylish fashion boutique 700 Penn Avenue 610-208-0600

Nursing Agency 634 Penn Avenue 610-685-2960

Allison Clothing Company Delightful Boutique and Gallery that supports local artists 522 Penn Avenue 484-709-2563

A Running Start

Running specialty, walking and triathlete shop 705 Penn Avenue 610-320-9097

Art Plus Gallery

Non-profit cooperative gallery 604 Penn Avenue 610-375-9122

Au Management Acting Up Studio Entertainment agency 326 Penn Avenue 484-509-2070

Aurum Holistic Skincare

Treatment center specializing in facials and skin treatments 120 S. 3rd Avenue 610-413-4137

Awards & More

One stop shopping experience 530 Penn Avenue 610-376-6110

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Barrer & White Orthodontists

Berks County Source for European Board games and comic books 514 Penn Avenue 610-750-7915

Avenues Winter 2016

Locksmith 440 Penn Avenue 610-374-9580

Yoga Studio 120 S. 3rd Avenue 610-374-2659

Real Estate Agency 550 Penn Avenue 610-373-8701

BT Gallery Retro Vintage Shop

Celtic ‘Olde Ways’ Shop 641 Penn Avenue 610-685-2307

Nail Salon 528 Penn Avenue 610-373-8189

Dentist 721 Penn Avenue 610-376-4384

Auto Tag Agency 734 Penn Avenue 610-372-9998

Offers the finest in home décor and decorative hardware 623 Penn Avenue 610-373-1040

Creative Vibes Tattoo Studio

Unique spot for new and used retro vintage items 514 Franklin Street 610-373-2968

Tattoo Shop 548 Penn Avenue 610-370-7552

Buttonwood Blooms

Curious On the Avenue

Candlewood Suites Reading

Chinaware Store & Tattoo Shop 398 Penn Avenue 610-376-7176

Birthday, get well, sympathy, weddings, and all other occasions 510 Penn Avenue 610-374-3322

Extended Stay 55 S. 3rd Avenue, Reading 610-898-1910

Cell Experts: Cell Phone Repair

Cell Phone Store 703 Penn Avenue 484-509-5571

Fun and fabulous one-of-a-kind shop 605 Penn Avenue 610-685-3996

Dragonfly Studio and Gallery

Drama Hair Studio

Beauty Salon 725 Penn Avenue 610-376-1998

Muddy Creek Soap Company Natural Handmade Soaps, Body Butters, Bath Bombs and Bath and Body Products made on site Custom Gift Baskets available for every occasion 608 Penn Ave. West Reading, PA 610-816-7474 www.muddycreeksoapcompany.com

Double Click Computers

Computer store 546 Penn Avenue 610-374-3355

Earth Rhythms

Fandangled

Fred Astaire

Beauty Salon 23 S 6th Avenue 610-373-1234

Dance School 603 Penn Avenue 610-373-4880

fig & will

Gage Personnel

Musical Mecca & Global Marketplace 641 Penn Avenue #2 610-374-3730

Consignment Boutique 609 Penn Avenue 610-373-3400

Employment Agency 101 N 7th Avenue 610-376-1771

East Ridge Outfitters

Fine Linez Barbershop

Holistic Skateshop

Sporting Goods Store 635 Penn Avenue 844-376-4327

www.finelinez.com 704 Penn Avenue, 610-413-6169

Edwards Business Systems Inc.

Fonte’s Salon

Skateboard Shop 516 Penn Avenue 484-577-4183

Honeybee Gardens

Business Development Service 524 Penn Avenue 610-372-8414

Hair Salon 300 Penn Avenue 610-376-2220

Cosmetics Store 200 Penn Avenue 610-396-9225

Encompass Media

Fraser Advanced Information Systems

Initials Boutique and Awards

Audio Visual Equipment Rental Service 97 S 5th Avenue 610-372-1010

Every Body Pilates

Pilates Studio 629 Court Street 888-509-1063

Office Equipment Supplier 320 Penn Avenue 610-378-0101

Embroidery Shop 396 Penn Avenue 610-670-0105

Integrative Healing Arts Studio

Massage Therapist 611 Penn Avenue 610-451-9577

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SHOPPING It’s a Gift! The Woman’s Exchange of Reading

Gift Shop 720 Penn Avenue 610-373-0960

J.P. Tailoring

Designer brands for today’s fashionista 434 Penn Avenue 610-478-0655

Jan Rae Ladies Fine Fashions and Accessories

Ladies fine fashions and accessories 612 Penn Avenue 610-372-9935

Jeff Reiff Auto Repair Car Inspection Station 633 Cherry Street 610-373-4052

Just Gorgeous Boutique

Division of Stafford & Banks Jewelers 639 Penn Avenue 610-378-1111

Made Jewelry Boutique and Studio

Boutique devoted to selling high quality, designer, hand-made jewelry 512 Penn Avenue 610-741-6676

Maurice & Lambert Training Center, LLC Nursing Agency 546 Penn Avenue 610-743-3620

McGinn School Apparel

Private school uniforms 12 S. 5th Avenue 610-939-1503

Mixx Boutique

Stylish boutique with clothing suitable for women of all ages 406 Penn Avenue 610-373-9696

Unique fashion boutique 637 Penn Avenue 610-373-2249

Justin Bortz New World Jeweler

Monarch Dance Studio

Designer boutique with 80% original in-house designs 438 Penn Avenue 610-373-1101

Dance School 603 Penn Avenue 610-816-8434

Kid’s Cuts

Hand-made soap store 608 Penn Avenue 610-781-5371

Beauty Salon 626 Penn Avenue 610-478-7167

King’s Auto Repair Inc.

Auto Repair Shop 732 Penn Avenue 610-376-3892

Kuhn Funeral Home Inc.

Muddy Creek Soap Company

Paisley Moon

Eclectic mix of glass art and funky home décor 607 Penn Avenue 610-371-9998

Picturesque Custom Framing

Funeral Home 739 Penn Avenue 610-374-5440

Custom frame shop 508 Penn Avenue 610-372-2763

Life Uniform

Pollack Furs and Leathers

Uniform Store 525 Penn Avenue 610-374-4528

LiliBea’s

An intimate place for intimates 613 Penn Avenue 610-685-6685

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London Blue Jewelers

Avenues Winter 2016

Retail sales of fur, leathers, shearling, cashmere and wool 643 Penn Avenue 610-376-3837

Reading Realty Group

Real Estate Agency 546 Penn Avenue 610-898-1441

Regina’s Salon

State of the Art Salon 518 Penn Avenue 484-987-2652

Rite Aid, Inc.

One of the nation’s leading drugstores 525 Penn Avenue 610-373-5241

Rothenberger Insurance Services

Auto Insurance Agency 436 Penn Avenue 610-406-5827

Salon Avanti

Specializing in hair, waxing and nail services 548 Penn Avenue 610-373-3023

Salon JP

Beauty Salon 726 Penn Avenue 610-376-5640

Sharp Dressed Man, Inc.

Latest styles in suits, formal wear and casual attire 408 Penn Avenue 610-685-4381

Shearer Technical Computer Consultants

Computer Repair Services 727 Penn Avenue 610-375-1676

Sherry’s Salon

Beauty Salon 536 Penn Avenue 610-374-4006

Side Door Medi Spa and Wellness Center

Medi Spa & Wellness Center 740 Penn Avenue 610-685-5287

Star Salon Spa & Boutique

Beauty Salon 723 Penn Avenue 610-685-4979

St. James Church

644 Penn Avenue 610-372-2034

Superior Oxygen and Medical Supplies

Medical Supply Store 545 Penn Avenue 610-371-0202

Sweet Surprises

Candy Store 544 Penn Avenue 610-373-2121

Symbiote Collectibles

Collectibles Store 52 S 5th Avenue 610-781-3859

Taste Buds on the Avenue Candy Store 530 Penn Avenue 610-374-5140

Tina’s Salon & Day Spa Beauty Salon 404 Penn Avenue 610-374-5991

United Artists Salon & Spa

Beauty Salon 299 Penn Avenue 610-376-8481

VF Outlet Center Outlet Mall 801 Hill Avenue B117 610-378-0408

Vertigo Music

Independently owned and operated record store 449 Penn Avenue 610-320-9927

Weikel Realty Group

Real Estate Agency 12A S. 5th Avenue 610-816-7404

West Reading Drug Store, Inc.

Drugstore 538 Penn Avenue 610-375-4366

Trinity Salon

West Reading Flower Shop

Unique & unusual arrangements for all occasions 633 Penn Avenue 610-376-7895

West Reading Precious Metals

Diamond Buyer 520 Penn Avenue 610-371-0505

Wm H. Diller Jewelers

Berks County’s oldest jewelry store 601 Penn Avenue 610-372-0019

Wyomissing Persian Rug Gallery

Sell, buy, clean, repair and appraise Persian rugs 728 Penn Avenue 610-478-0580

Yarn Gallery

Finest quality yarns for hand-knitting and crochet 628 Penn Avenue 610-373-1622

Beauty Salon 432 Penn Avenue 610-374-2000

The Best Reading in Reading Hoffmann Publishing Group is the regional leader in print and digital niche publishing. Our publications deliver targeted marketing opportunities directly to the key decision makers of Berks County’s professional, business and community organizations.

Publishing 21 unique titles throughout southeastern and central PA

Call today for advertising opportunities.

HoffmannPublishing.com • 610.685.0914 x201

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Jim Brickman

Snarky Puppy

Fourplay

Keiko Matsui

March 31-April 9, 2017 Reading, PA

Brian Culbertson

Patti Austin

Marcus Miller

Spend 10 jazz- and blues-filled days and nights in the Greater Reading area!

Over 120 scheduled events, plus great shopping and dining in one area, make the 27th annual Boscov’s Berks Jazz Fest your perfect spring getaway.

For tickets, call Ticketmaster toll free at 1-800-745-3000 or visit www.ticketmaster.com to order online.

Tickets go on sale Saturday, Dec. 3, at 10 a.m.!

PATTI AUSTIN • GERALD ALBRIGHT • JONATHAN BUTLER • SNARKY PUPPY • WILL DOWNING • NAJEE • KEIKO MATSUI • RICK BRAUN • JIM BRICKMAN MARCUS MILLER • FOURPLAY FEATUIRNG BOB JAMES, NATHAN EAST, HARVEY MASON, CHUCK LOEB • PAT MARTINO ORGAN TRIO WITH HORNS BRIAN CULBERTSON • NEW URBAN JAZZ PARTY: BOB BALDWIN, WALTER BEASLEY, MARION MEADOWS, TOM BROWNE • NICK COLIONNE • ERIC DARIUS ADAM HAWLEY • LARRY GRAHAM & GRAHAM CENTRAL STATION • DR. LONNIE SMITH • TROKER • JEFF HAMILTON TRIO • JAREKUS SINGLETON TOMMY KATONA & TEXAS FLOOD • JON CLEARY • EVERETTE HARP & FRIENDS: CHANTE MOORE, PHIL PERRY, BRIAN BROMBERG JASON MILES PRESENTS CELEBRATING THE MUSIC OF WEATHER REPORT• BERKS GROOVE PROJECT • GERALD VEASLEY’S MIDNIGHT JAMS ERIC MARIENTHAL • FRANK DIBUSSOLO’S PHILLY REUNION BAND • GOSPEL ACCORDING TO JAZZ CELEBRATION: KIRK WHALUM, FRED HAMMOND, KEVIN WHALUM, JOHN STODDART AND THE DOXA GOSPEL ENSEMBLE • ANAT COHEN QUARTET • WEST COAST JAM WITH RICK BRAUN, NORMAN BROWN, RICHARD ELLIOT • THE ARTIMUS PYLE BAND: TRIBUTE TO RONNIE VAN ZANDT’S LYNYRD SKYNYRD • SHEMEKIA COPELAND AND MUCH MORE!*

berksjazzfest.com * LINEUP AS OF 10/30/16.

SUBJECT TO CHANGE

PROUD SPONSOR OF THE BOSCOV’S BERKS JAZZ FEST

Follow us on Twitter @berksjazzfest

FARMERS MARKET

West Reading Farmers’ Market Getting Ready for Winter

B

eginning November 20th, the West Reading Farmers’ Market plans to move indoors to the West Reading Fire Department. The same great market you’ve come to rely on for ingredients from May through November will continue to be open for business inside through April 23, 2017. Vendors agree that it is important for the market’s success to continue to provide seasonal ingredients to customers all year long. Make shopping the West Reading Farmers’ Market a fun part of you weekend!

West Reading Indoor Farmers’ Market, 10am - 1pm West Reading Fire Department, 223 Playground Drive

Visit

lovewestreading.org

for application.

2016/2017 Schedule 2016 November 20th December 4th & 18th

Are you a farmer or retailer interested in becoming a vendor?

2017 January 8 & 22 February 12 & 26 March 12 & 26 April 9 & 23

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All New Justin Bortz New World Jewelers “Jewelry with Intention”

Reading’s Most Innovative Jeweler Come in this Holiday Season!

438 Penn Ave West Reading, Pa 19611 610-373-1101 • 610-507-7805 cell www.justinbortz.com

Avenue Art ARTS IN THE COMMUNITY

Judy Ballinger, Art Plus Gallery

Michele Byrne Starts 2017 Featured Exhibit Schedule at Art Plus Gallery

A

rt Plus Gallery, 604 Penn Avenue, will start its 2017 slate of featured exhibits with a one-month solo show by guest artist Michele Byrne.

Though she travels extensively, Michele still calls Wyomissing home. The nationally renown plein air artist spent much of this past autumn here painting local scenes, many of which will be included in the show. She also plans to include several pieces from a summer trip to the Adirondacks, and two larger studio paintings derived from plein air pieces.

In the last two years, Michele has painted in Cuba, Manhattan, Paris, California, Colorado and Key West, Florida. Widely recognized for her figurative plein air work, she has won numerous awards, most recently including an Award of Excellence in Jackson Hole, Wyoming with the Rocky Mountain Plein Air Painters, and Second Place in PleinAir magazine’s bi-monthly Salon.

Michele’s extraordinary talent, dedication and passion for plein air painting come through in her art and workshops. “The artist must make decisions about time of day, direction of light and inclusion of figures, despite everything in front of you constantly changing,” she explains. “The decisions allow the artist to paint dynamically with light and air as a part of the final image. Painting plein air allows me to create a more fluid diary of the ever-changing activity of a café, street scene or beach scene.”

Michele’s exhibit at Art Plus will open on Wednesday, Jan 4. The gallery will hold a reception for the artist on Friday, Jan. 13, 5:00 to 8:00 PM. Art Plus’ 2017 featured exhibit schedule will spotlight a mix of guests artists, student and outreach artists, and members of gallery.

The expanded Featured Exhibit Wing was one of many changes made during last year’s sweeping renovation of the Penn Avenue gallery. The gallery now includes a gift shop featuring additional works by members of the non-profit cooperative of two dozen local artists.

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