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4Bountiful Berks Farm Stand Brings Fresh Produce to Reading Schools
⁷Individualized Service and Home Improvement ⁸Stefano Sarge: Reinforcing Positive Change with Proper Diet and Exercise
10Shop Small, Shop Local at the OppShop! 13IM ABLE Foundation Celebrates 15th
Anniversary of Got the Nerve? Triathlon
14The Modern Barber 16Nostalgic Candy & Memories in the Heart of Boyertown
19Baseballtown Charities Dream League 20Sandy Witman:
Strengthening Reading’s Food Systems
24Adrean Turner: All Things are Possible if you Keep Going
26Schuylkill River Trail 5K Series Benefits Local Charities
28Mi Casa Su Casa Cafe Opens in Shillington Farmers Market
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Bountiful Berks Farm Stand Brings Fresh Produce to Reading Schools By Dani Motze
Eva Delvalle stood in the courtyard of 16th and Haak Elementary School, Reading School District, waiting for her two oldest children to be dismissed, ready for the daily rush of emerging students. But this time, students emerged to find their courtyard filled with tables of produce that they had just learned about in class and were going to get to take home to their families.
of the Bountiful Berks co-op table of the Penn Street Market and of the Berks Farm Bucks incentive program, sponsored by the Friends of Reading Hospital.
Some of them joined their adults to watch a demonstration of how to prepare a slaw made with bright purple cabbage- then they got to taste-test it together.
It works like this
It’s a new “Farm To School” program called the Bountiful Berks Farm Stand that’s part of an effort to combine classroom education about healthy eating and nutrition with access to affordable, local, healthy food. This pilot program is being led by The Food Trust’s Reading team as an extension 4 | Reading Magazine - rdgmag.com
Last month students took home over 200 bags filled with locally grown apples, clementine’s, cabbage, carrots, onions, kohlrabi and fresh baked bread. And it’s just the beginning.
Berks Agricultural Resource Network (BARN) runs the Bountiful Berks co-op table, located at the Penn Street Market, from which residents can buy local produce and goods for a lower cost than, say, from a grocery store. This is because the co-op buys the products directly from the local farmers and vendors and can sell to the residents at a reasonable cost, “We’re changing the whole model and making it that healthy,
local food is the same price or less expensive than pre- made or grocery store prices,” said Zach Hunter, a Community Nutrition Educator with The Food Trust.
even more students and their families to the market come June. And, it’s bringing the market to those students and families who aren’t in the downtown, or who can’t make the market’s weekday time frame.
These same Bountiful Berks co-op table vendors whose goods you saw at the Penn City Councilwoman Lucine Sihelnik, Street Market also supply the food and former Penn Street Market Manager and produce for this Farm current BARN President, “The Farm To School led the creation of the Berks To School pilot: 16th and Haak students Bountiful Berks Farm Farm Bucks program a few receive produce from Stand brings the market seasons ago and it’s been Weaver’s Orchards and growing since. Hunter and its produce to another believes that the pilot’s use Oak Nut Farm and part of the city,” fresh baked bread from of the token program will Tropical Bakery. create student and family Alex Roche, an Adult Nutrition buy-in and excitement Educator with The Food Trust. about healthy food. This is made possible by grant funding from BCAP and through major sponsorship of In the future, the program will continue the Friends of Reading Hospital for the its farm stand model where the fresh food Berks Farm Bucks Program, originally and produce will be available for purchase designed for use at the Penn Street Market for affordable prices. And, just like at the and adopted for this pilot. Penn Street Market, purchasers will be able to use Supplemental Nutrition Assis“We all sat down to figure out how to tance Program (SNAP), thanks to BARN make the Bountiful Berks Farm Stand serving as the SNAP host, making it even model fit the schools better,” Hunter more accessible to community members. explained. So, Food Trust team members teach students in their classrooms and Buy-in from the families isn’t the only key later, at dismissal, students receive a token to the program’s success—buy in from that they use to ‘shop’ for this produce local vendors is crucial, BARN member (instead of participating in a lesson on the and volunteer Sandy Witman explained. sidewalk at the market and then immediShe uses her decades of professional ately receiving the token). experience in the food business and her connections to local vendors to procure The program will give students and adults the produce and food that students take access to fresh food for a longer period home. than the market’s season of June-September, “The vision is to extend the market Because of her efforts, vendors provide past the market season. That’s been a quality fresh food at a reasonable prices vision for all of us for a long time,” said and are willing to be flexible to fit into the Hunter. program’s criteria. The Food Trust team teaches at schools throughout the district and hopes that those lessons, and this pilot, will bring
“A lot of [this project’s success] comes back to Sandy’s relationship with the vendors,” said Roche. rdgmag.com - Reading Magazine | 5
The Bountiful Berks Farm Stand creates a value chain, he explained. In return, vendors are selling their goods in a new marketplace that they may not otherwise have had the ability to staff and are being promoted through the Farm To School program. “Bountiful Berks is the identity of what we’re working on at BARN to promote agriculture-related business,” added Witman. Roche, who was part of the Penn Street Market team that piloted Berks Farm Bucks, and worked together with Ms. Witman on the piloting of Bountiful Berks, feels excited to see this all come together. He, along with Hunter and Witman, points to the support of the school staff in making this pilot happen. And, he recognizes that the family support they have already seen will lend to
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the program’s sustainability, “We’re not worried about sustainability because of the engaged parent community at 16th & Haak Elementary School…It is always nice to see the parents come out and talk to us. The kids got an education today and we know they’re taking it home, because parents learned it too. It’s cool to see so many parents want to know what’s going on in their kids’ lives.” One parent and PTA member, Lori Henley, was at the pilot launch and supports this program completely, “The more we can get parents involved is great. I think this is totally awesome.” And Eva, the parent waiting for her kids to be dismissed, feels excited about it, too, “I think this is great. I have a hard time getting my kids to eat healthy at home. I think maybe they’ll see the other kids trying [healthy food] here and then they’ll want to try it too.”
Individualized Service and Home Improvement For Harry and Melinda O’Neill, owners of Empire Surplus Home Center in Leesport, customer service is the core of their business. Empire Surplus Home Center was founded in 1990. Parent company, Empire Wrecking was founded in 1955. Empire Surplus originally got its name from products being taken off the wrecking jobs. These included stained glass windows, granite steps etc. Harry has been working in the family business since he was very young. He started with his Dad (Harry) and Uncle Todd on the wrecking jobs. His passion has always been finding new deals and work on home projects. Today they have everything for your home under one roof. Empire has 22 employees working at their Bernville Road store and warehouse in Robesonia.
There goal is to provide customers with the best product at the best price. Carrying everything from Ashley furniture, area rugs, hot tubs, vanities, tile, rows of flooring, toilets, granite, quartz and cultured marble for both the vanities and kitchen. The atmosphere at Empire is always exciting! Employee’s design, measure and install all products and are constantly meeting with vendors, going to trade shows to find the best products for your home. Harry and Melinda also host events throughout the year to help support the community including “Ladies Night” held in the Fall which supports Breast Cancer Support Services of Berks County. Empire Surplus Home Center 2741 Bernville Rd, Leesport, PA 19533 www.empiresurplus.com rdgmag.com - Reading Magazine | 7
Stefano Sarge: Reinforcing Positive Change with Proper Diet and Exercise By Michael Hartman
In this month’s fitness profile, I sit down with Stefano Sarge, personal trainer at Wyomissing Fitness to discuss education, inspiration, and implementation of safe and effective training programs. Mike How did you get involved in personal training and how long have you been training? Stefano From a very young age, I’ve always said that I wanted to help people. I’ve played football, lacrosse, and wrestled in high school. Year after year I underwent strength training and rehabbed various injuries. I wanted to get involved in a profession where I would be able to give back to those who want to become stronger and stay healthy in the process. Personal training provided the avenue to do just that. I’m able to meet with my clients, helping them achieve their goals while lessening their chances of injury day in and day out. Being on the frontlines of preventative medicine has been very rewarding! 8 | Reading Magazine - rdgmag.com
Mike What are your Certifications, education, and specialties? Stefano I received my Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science and Wellness Management from University of the Sciences in Philadelphia. From there, I went on to acquire my certifications and am always looking to continue my education! My certifications are in ACSM: Certified Exercise Physiologist, NSCA: Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist, Up2Us Sports: Sports-Based Youth Development Coach Certification Level 4. In addition, my specialties include strength and conditioning, preventative health, adaptive training, and weight loss. Mike Where do you train? Stefano I train at Wyomissing Fitness and Training as well as Exeter Fitness and Training. These gyms have been the best gyms I have had the pleasure of training at thus far. In addition to personal training, I also offer group training, Bootcamps, and various clinics.
Mike Who is your target clientele? Stefano I don’t have a target clientele per say. I’ve trained individuals from ages 9 to 70. I enjoy training first-timers to athletes to post rehab patients! All clients have varying goals and my job is to help them achieve these goals safely and efficiently. I want to help everyone that I can to live a happier, healthier lifestyle, whether it is physically, mentally, or emotionally. Mike Give us some inspiration! Stefano I’ll never forget the day I weighed in at 295lbs thinking, “Oh man, I’m going to bust through 300lbs soon if I don’t change something.” I don’t have the best family history in the world, so packing on pounds [and not the right ones I might add] are going to lead me down a spiraling path of diseases and medications that I definitely do not want to depend on for the rest of my life.
harder than it already is. Think about how many times your heart beats per day. Find an activity you enjoy like walking and commit to it multiple times a week. The American College of Sports Medicine recommends 150 minutes of low to moderate intensity exercise per week. Not to mention, this time is a great stress reliever! You can also get your cardio in by performing HIIT or High Intensity Interval Training, but this is a more vigorous approach. I also believe in working together with other fitness professionals, as he has many videos collaborating with professionals in other areas of expertise. There are many professionals out there that have a different skill sets and knowledge than I do. I think there is a lot out there to learn and many are willing to teach. In the end, like Elliott, I want my clients to find the, “strongest versions of themselves.”
From that day forward, I committed myself not only to live a healthier lifestyle, but to helping those around me by educating, training, and teaching as many as possible! Don’t ever forget that it’s never too late to make a change in your life. It doesn’t matter if your 27 or 77! It will take some work, but you will not regret it. Mike What is the most important exercise for longevity and health? Stefano Boy, do I love my strength training, but heart and lung health is number one. “Cardio” aka cardiorespiratory exercise is great not only to stimulate the heart, but your lungs and brain as well. You’re heart beats every single day to keep you alive. It’s important to train this muscle to work more efficiently and not rdgmag.com - Reading Magazine | 9
Shop Small, Shop Local at the OppShop! By Heather Brady, Co-Founder of Do It Local Fundraising OppShop is an unique thrift shop in Reading, PA that donates 100% of its profits to Berks County’s homeless! How? It’s completely funded and operated by Opportunity House through their Reuse & Recycle Program. By donating your old stuff, you’re making someone’s day by allowing them to find a new treasured item to take home. By shopping at OppShop, you’re helping the homeless and Berks County’s community! Never feel guilty about shopping for yourself again when you #ShopOppShop! The Reuse/Recycle program was created to provide permanent, full time employment opportunities for individuals who have struggled to obtain employment, provide an additional revenue stream that could be reinvested into the mission of Opportunity House, and divert gently used clothing, books, furniture, and housewares from our landfills. 10 | Reading Magazine - rdgmag.com
Background OppShop opened in July of 2015 on 5th Street Highway. All of their products are clean, sanitized and in Opportunity House great condition. From furniture to housewares to a great new book, OppShop offers a wide selection of items that you’ve been looking for or didn’t even know you needed! But it’s not your average thrift shop… Frequent Shopper Candis: “I’ve found too many great things to list! I got a vintage leather vest for $5. It’s worth about $150! We’ve found antique syroco mirrors there for $5-$10 that are worth $75 & up. I also was looking forever to replace a set of steam hair curlers that my mother and I have used for over 20 years. They don’t make them anymore. I found an entire set new in the box for $6! Online they’re up to $40!” That’s not all, the OppShop is also known for their incredible Furniture selection! The furniture items rotate fast, so check the store regularly!
The OppShop is always in need of furniture donations. If you have furniture that you would like to donate, please call the OppShop to schedule a free pick up.
those aisles by heart. 50% Off Books on Tuesdays. Ongoing Book Swap - For every book you donate, you can receive 50% off your next book (same day, no voucher).
What OppShop shoppers are saying
Next time you want to donate your used items, please consider donating to the OppShop to support the local Opportunity House and their amazing programs here in Berks County!
Furniture & Home Goods: As If It’s Always a Clearance Sale. Not always vintage or antiques, but modern items, too! ALWAYS has discounts - Furniture, along with housewares and shoes, are on a 3-Color Rotation and could be 25% or 50% off the next time you shop! Of course the OppShop also has Clothing & Shoes: For All Ages, Sizes, and Styles From Newborns to Adults, We host many sizes, colors, and styles! We often run discounts such as 25% off clothing & shoes - prices are so low to begin with! Brand Named Jeans are always $5.99 or less Let’s not forget about the AMAZING Books & Media selection: For a Great New Adventure. Books are organized by genre and author. A volunteer knows
There are 3 Ways to Donate! Drop off donations during store hours at 3045 N 5th Street Hwy, Reading. Drop off clothing and shoes at one of our donation bins located across Berks County. Call 610-3744696 ext. 221 to arrange a FREE pick-up for furniture or other large items. Did you know that you can save an extra 30% at the OppShop by using your Do It Local App? If you are not a member yet, please consider joining the movement and purchasing a membership to support the Opportunity House: www.doitLOCALfundraising.com. Support Local! Save Local! rdgmag.com - Reading Magazine | 11
Mingus Magic Shop Celebrates 80th Anniversary What started with a small project to fix a creaky front door turned into a complete over hall of Mingus Magic Shop on the 500 block of Lancaster Ave in Reading. Celebrating the re-grand opening Wayne Shifflett, owner of Mingus Magic held a ribbon cutting Thursday afternoon in conjunction with the 18th Wonder Improvement Association and District 1 City Councilwomen Lucine Sihelnik. Originally founded by Leroy Mingus in 1938, Mingus Magic Shop has served the local community for 80 years. Shifflett tells us the idea for a grand opening came from fixing the front door of his business. “When I bought the building 32 years ago it was brand new, and its needed a face lift for a while now… Once the front door broke we kept adding more, new floors, facade, and interior display cabinets.” In all the renovation took about a month starting in mid-March. As Shifflett describes it, Mingus isn’t just a retail magic 12 | Reading Magazine - rdgmag.com
shop, it’s an experience. “Not only do we sell products, but we also demonstrate and teach customers what we sell. Plus, if I don’t know we always have difference magicians here that can show you.” What makes Mingus such a magical shop isn’t just the wide variety of products on display, but the small performance stage in the back of the store. Shifflett plans on scheduling magic acts in the store on Fridays and Saturdays. Documentary Over the past 6 months Mingus Magic Shop has been the focus of documentary production company Barely Upright Productions. Now in its final stage of editing the documentary highlights the history of Mingus and the impact of magic in the community. The short film will premiere at the Boscov Film Theater at the GoggleWorks May 20th and 21st.
IM ABLE Foundation Celebrates 15th Anniversary of Got the Nerve? Triathlon Each year the little town of Mt. Gretna is visited by hundreds of triathletes for the annual Got the Nerve? Triathlon all to support the IM Able Foundation. Now in its 15th year, the race is stronger than ever bringing in athletes from 19 states. The Got the Nerve? Triathlon is a race for everyone. Over two hours athletes take part in a 500 yard lake swim, 16 mile bike and a 5k road race before finishing in front of Mt. Gretna Lake. The race is one of the main fundraisers for the Wyomissing based IM Able Foundation. Founded by Chris Kaag, the IM Able foundation is dedicated to removing obstacles that prevent people affected by disabilities from being physically active by providing grants, resources and fitness opportunities. A lot has happened over the past 15 years, but it all started with a selfless vision to help others. Thousands of people have raced in and volunteered for the triathlon over the years. Speaking with us about the race Kaag said he was very appreciative of
everyone who has helped. However, there are a few moments he told us that will always be special to him. Back in 2004, Kaag met a young kid who was eager to compete in his first triathlon. That kid was Andrew Yoder, who has since become a professional triathlete. Yoder now owns his own triathlon coaching business and continues to help new Got the Nerve athletes prepare for the race. Another one of Kaag’s proudest moments was in 2015 with hand cycle grant recipient, Dan Webb. Paralyzed from a hunting accident, Webb completed the swim and bike portion of the triathlon with his sister in law finishing the run. 100 yards before the finish she stopped to let Webb stand up and finish the race using an exoskeleton. “I saw him come across the finish line and I broke down, here’s a guy who’s always in a wheel chair walking across the finish line, it took a lot of courage and it’s something I won’t forget.” - Kaag
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The Modern Barber
Rustic Atmosphere, Old School Jams, and Craft Beer
For Christopher Martinez, cutting hair isn’t just a job, it’s a lifestyle. Growing up Martinez has always had a passion for cutting hair.
in West Reading, Martinez’s attention to detail is not only shown in his work cutting hair but also throughout the design of his barbershop.
With humble beginnings in his mother’s basement to successfully completing barber school and graduating from Penn State. Martinez has positioned himself to be a master at his trade
Creating a warm and inviting atmosphere Martinez used handmade rustic wood panels to line the shop.
Now the owner of Fine Linez Barbershop 14 | Reading Magazine - rdgmag.com
“It’s a symbol of the commitment and intricacies of our trade.” Said Martinez. The vision for Martinez is to take clients back
to the old ways of well-dressed men and old school jams. Service is key to Martinez and his employees. Clients are treated like family, adding to the experience Martinez even pours a beer for clients as there in the chair. Proud to provide a traditional service with a new look and feel, Martinez is just a few months into his second year on Penn Avenue.
“I love the atmosphere in West Reading. It is always a happy place and I always felt welcome. I was not aware of what was to come for the avenue, but I just had a good feeling about this place and wanted to be part of it.� Fine Linez Barbershop 704 Penn Aveneue, West Reading (484) 869-2702 www.finelinez.com rdgmag.com - Reading Magazine | 15
Nostalgic Candy & Memories in the Heart of Boyertown Located in the heart of Boyertown Pennsylvania the Peppermint Stick Candy Store features a wide variety of old fashion penny candies, chocolates, and hand dipped ice cream.
In the beginning, Kehler took it upon herself to reach out and visit other candy stores within the region to get a firsthand look at what it means to own a candy store.
Owner Rachael Kehler worked for a catering company prior to opening the business. She had the idea after seeing the success of the Colebrookdale Railroad located just down the street.
This was invaluable to Kehler, many of the business owners she talked with were more than willing to share their knowledge of the industry.
“This is a community I want to be a part of and help build” Kehler tells us. 16 | Reading Magazine - rdgmag.com
Now with her new location on East Philadelphia Ave in Boyertown, Kehler is one of Boyertown’s most popular businesses.
However, it didn’t happen overnight, Kehler has put a lot of hard work into not only building her business but working to bring the community of Boyertown closer together. Being in business for three years Kehler has seen a lot of customers walk through the doors. From kids to adults everyone loves picking out a small treat from the wall of penny candies. Memories are what make customers smile, Kehler explains.
“50-60-year-old men come in to our store and act like little school kids, they’re so excited to see the classic candy.” Kehler says the best part is hearing the stories customers tell about the classic candies. Overtime, Kehler found that she didn’t just own a candy store, she in some ways owns a time machine, transporting her customers back to their childhood. Looking to create new memories with customers Kehler brought on Amanda Murray, an intern from Boyertown Area rdgmag.com - Reading Magazine | 17
Senior High School has given Kehler the latitude to expand her website and locally hosted events. Working on the events, Murray has managed to expand Peppermint Stick’s Gummy Bear Fever, Leprechaun Hunt, and Candy Land Extravaganza. Candy Land Extravaganza is a life size candy land game held throughout the store. Spaces began outside of the store with each area a new game for customers to play. Kehler say she usually sees a few hundred people turn out to play the games, take photos and enjoy the day. Memories aren’t the only reason customers stop in. The candy industry is always coming up with new and unique sweets, and in the wake some classic brands are put in jeopardy of going out of production. The recent Necco Wafer crisis has left people across the country looking for the multicolored wafers. As a distributor, Kehler has seen an uptick in sales due to the headlines.
“Normally we would only sell a box a month, but now we get calls all the time from people looking for more.” Giving back is important to Kehler, which is why a few years ago she developed a program designed to ship candy to the troops overseas. Each year, the week of Memorial Day, Kehler sets out a jar next to her register. Each time a customer spends a dollar she adds a piece of candy to the pile. Over the years Kehler has donated over 13 pounds of candy to various military supporting foundations. Kehler was inspired to develop ‘Candy for the Troops’ from her brother in law who is a retired Marine stationed in Iraq. “He said having a piece of candy in your mouth covers up the taste of the sand” Kehler said. Hard candy is something they asked for. Spearmints, Root Beer Barrels, and butter scotch candy are the most popular. “I’ve had customers who pick out 2lbs of candy to add to the bucket in the past”. For Kehler, owning a candy shop isn’t just about the sweets, it’s about building a sense of community in Boyertown. Peppermint Stick Candy Store
26 E Philadelphia Ave, Boyertown, PA 19512
www.peppermintstickcandystore.com
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Baseballtown Charities Dream Field Opening Day
It was a bright and sunny morning April 21st as Baseballtown Charities officially opened the Baseballtown Dream Field. The league provides children with physical and developmental challenges the opportunity to play baseball.
physical and developmental challenges be able to play baseball, they will also be able to play on a playground before and after their Baseballtown Dream League games allowing all kids to play together and get to know one another.
The Savage 61 Field of Dreams at Relevant Sports Complex is outfitted with a special turf surface and will be the home to the Baseballtown Dream League.
Check out the new stadium for yourself by visiting the Relevant Sports Complex.
Also, thanks to this partnership between IM Able Foundation, and Baseballtown Charities, not only will children with
Baseballtown Charities Dream Field 2816 Old Pricetown Road Temple, PA 19610. www.baseballtowndreamleague.com rdgmag.com - Reading Magazine | 19
Sandy Witman
Strengthening Reading’s Food Systems By Dani Motze
Sandy Witman was sitting in her car in Reading’s downtown this past winter when a man walked up and knocked on her window. She rolled it down. It turned out that the man recognized Sandy – they had gotten to know each other at the Penn Street Market, where she volunteered - and he thought maybe something was wrong. She had been kind to him during the market season and he wanted to check on her and make sure she was all right before he moved on. She inquired about how he was doing, did he have warm clothes for the winter, and he assured her he did, before they parted ways. “I sat in my car with tears in my eyes,” she said, “that he remembered me and wanted to make sure I was ok…You never know 20 | Reading Magazine - rdgmag.com
someone’s story, or what they have been through! I learned from my family to respect everyone.” Sandy brings her relationship-first mentality and decades of experience in the food industry and business development to Reading and Berks County, helping entrepreneurs grow their businesses; mentoring the next generation of leaders; and giving of her time and expertise to strengthen the area’s food systems, from promoting businesses to increasing food access. Sandy’s love of agricultural systems started early. She grew up in a family of famers and spent family vacations on their farms when she would ride with her uncles on their food trucks selling produce and meat, “I remember my dad telling me, ‘You already love this stuff!’”
Later she moved with her husband, a Marine, to California where set about getting to know the members of her community. The present ease with which she strikes up conversation with just about anybody came with practice, “Everyone should move to a different place for a while. You learn how to interact with different people,” she said. She also reflects that she takes after her dad, who valued getting to know people and talked with just about anybody, “I’d be with him chatting with everyone. We’d go the hardware store and it’d take us two hours because we’d be chatting.” At first, Sandy wasn’t sure what she’d do with her time in California, “[My husband] said to me, ‘Well, what are you going to do?’ because he knew I was restless!” She saw an ad for a flower shop delivery position, and showed up at the shop, “The owner asked me, of course, if I knew the area. I told him I did…or at least, I’d figure it out!” She quickly made friends with the local police and fire fighters, who often gave her a hand when she did inevitably get lost on deliveries. And, she opened her home to the local military personnel who missed their far-away families, often hosting them for dinner and holidays. And, that somewhat-spontaneous position at the flower shop soon blossomed into a valuable business-education for Sandy, “Talk about the best mentor you could ask for! I learned so much about business there.” Today, Sandy pays that mentorship forward, encouraging and giving both technical advice and bits of practical wisdom to Reading and Berks’ next generation of leaders. She reminds young professionals
especially to always remember that it’s sometimes the least likely person who can teach them something. Despite her long and successful career, she admits, “I don’t know everything. Nobody does. Everyone can learn something from everyone else, including me!” Eventually, Sandy moved back from California to Berks County and continued her career in various iterations within the food industry, including opening up a catering company and café on Penn Street, “Simply Scrumptious (she recently ran into a customer who specifically remembered her lemon squares, nearly twenty-five years later),” and working in business development at Sysco, US Foods and other companies. Today she consults small business owners, connecting them with resources to grow their businesses, “I love the entrepreneurs and anything I can do to help them grow…It’s fun to watch things happen because people connect.” She remembers, and continues to teach others, that the biggest part of any business is connecting with people, “It’s all about how you make people feel in that moment.” And she continues to live by her own advice. She recently served on the Home Builders Association’s Restoring Hope Foundation’s inaugural Cupcake Wars committee, working to recruit professional and amateur bakers. After the event, she personally made sure that the leftover cupcakes went to the hotel event staff, “… they worked hard all day to make the event come together…It’s all about the relationships!” Sandy donates her time and expertise in many ways, working to strengthen Berks’ agricultural system, including promoting its small businesses, and increasing food rdgmag.com - Reading Magazine | 21
access and security. She volunteered with Penn Street Market for the past couple of seasons, leading efforts to expand the amount of participating vendors and working to increase connection between local farmers and residents. City Councilwoman Lucine Sihelnik, former Penn Street Market Manager and current BARN president, has worked closely with Sandy over the past few years, “The most amazing thing about Sandy is that although she’s small in stature, she’s tremendous in the amount of time, energy and love she gives to those around her in need. I’ve learned that actions can speak louder than words from Sandy, who never stands idly by and watches other work. And she knows everyone. People will stop what they are doing on Penn Street to get one of her infamous hugs because they love seeing her every week at the farmers market.” Sandy also serves on the Executive Committee of Berks Agricultural Resource Network (BARN), leading Bountiful Berks, a branding program developed to identify local products. She played a crucial role in the Bountiful Berks Farm Stand pilot in the Reading School District
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[see article to learn more] serving as a broker between local vendors and the program that gives students fresh food. “Working with Sandy is a true pleasure. She is a sage when it comes to food, food service and their resources in Berks County. The depth and breadth of her knowledge are amazing. It was an honor for me and Tropical Bakery to be chosen as one of the suppliers for Bountiful Berks,” said Bountiful Berks vendor Tanya Melendez, of Tropical Bakery. Recently, Sandy even served as a judge for the National Agriculture Day student essay contest. She recalled spreading out the essays across her living room floor, “I learned a lot about the spotted lanternfly and the damage they are causing to our local environment and businesses from the local school children,” Sandy said. Afterwards, she got to present the awards to the contest winners. Sandy’s latest effort is recruiting vendors for BARN’s big annual fundraising event which will, of course, feature food from local farms. And whatever her next big project is after that, she’ll continue connecting people with each other and with resources, strengthening Reading’s food systems, and reminding all of us to keep respecting and getting to know one another.
donate. download. do it LOCAL.
Join the Do It Local Movement by purchasing a $25 annual membership to support a local charity partner’s fundraising campaign, and enjoy $1000’s of savings to locally owned businesses throughout Berks County in the palm of your hand! New deals are added throughout the year!
Go to www.doitLOCALfundraising.com Choose One of our Local Charity Partners to Purchase a Membership
Spring Cleaning has arrived so be sure to use your Do It Local mobile app to support Locally Owned Businesses and save some money this year! Hard water problems? Have you had your water tested in the past 2 yrs? If not, we encourage you to call our friends at Advanced Water Resources and tell them you are interested in learning more about a water softener. Their educated team will stop out to test your water and share some tips on how you can save your clothes, plumbing pipes, and even supply your family with better tasting water. PLUS save $400 with your Do It LOCAL membership.
Read about some of our partners below:
When is the last time you had your ducts or carpets cleaned? Call our friends at Hitchcock Clean & Restore. Locally owned and operated with decades of experience. By far the best in the industry! Plus save $25 as a Do It Local Member off a carpet cleaning or a duct cleaning.
Need to de-clutter? Call our friends at the OppShop! They will schedule a time to pick up your old furniture, appliances, and other "junk" and resell it at their store to raise funds for the Opportunity House. Do It Local App Members can also save 30% at the OppShop.
Have some Trees that should be removed? Call our friend Buddy, the owner at Singer Tree and Shrub! Tell him that you are a Do It Local Member and you would like him to do a Free estimate on your tree problems. PLUS you can save $50 with any tree removal or 20% off pest eradication with your Do It Local app deal!
Call our friends at David's Cleaning! App Members can stop by to pick up your FREE Signature Window Cleaner (no purchase necessary).
237 Court St. Suite 307 Reading, PA 19601 610.985.0353 local@doitlocalfundraising.com
Bring it to our friends at A to Z Vacuum and Fan for a FREE Check up! You can compare it side by side with a new vacuum. Plus the experts at A to Z will teach you about the best vacuum for your home. We encourage you (and your vacuum) to go visit Scott and his team today! App Members can save 10% off their already low prices.
Thinking about Spring Renovations or Redecorating?
Need a good Spring Cleaning?
Do It Local, LLC
Not sure if your vacuum is up to par?
Before you start your next project, be sure you check out the awesome savings in your Do It Local App at these locally owned businesses: Empire Surplus - 20% off one item Painted Table Designs - $5 off $50 Kuzan's True Value Hardware - $5 off $30
www.doitLOCALfundraising.com Fundraising - Localized | Modernized | Simplified
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Adrean Turner: All Things are Possible if you Keep Going By Ashley Hugg
Being a beauty queen is more then just having a fun personality and beauty. We got a chance to sit down with Adrean Turner to learn more about the Mrs. Berks County Pennsylvania 2018 winner. Turner grew up in Philadelphia and attended an all-girls high school. She believes that attending an all-girls school helped the foundation for her life and who she is. This includes becoming the first person in her family to earn a college degree. After college she began working in corporate America. In the early 2000’s she experienced a personal conflict that lead her to question what she wanted to do with her life. Turner was stuck between wanting to leave her career after 23 years to teach and help people and the fear of what would happen if she did. After creating a pros and cons list she realized the worst-case scenario would be she needs to go back to corporate if her business did not work out. Around 2008 an opportunity arose for her to retire from her corporate position which she thought was the perfect chance for her to branch out on her own. Unfortunately, that was the year of the financial collapse which did not help her out since she was trying to invest in an assisted living facility. This did however give Turner the chance to prove to herself that she could start a business and have the confidence to do something on her own. 24 | Reading Magazine - rdgmag.com
Turner returned to the corporate workforce full of passion and desire to start her own company. While working full time she put together the platform for her company and in August of 2013 she finally was able to fully launch Turner Coaching, Training, and Consulting. Turner was finally able to quit her career and work full time for herself. “I left my career because I believed more in myself and more about what I’m destined to do.” She continued to grow her business taking on new challenges as they came along.
“When your looking for opportunity, you are always open to see opportunity” This was true for Turner when she was approached about writing her own book. She had been working on writing a book and eventually was able to bring it to a publisher. Turner’s book is called “Fearless. Inspired. Transformed. F.I.T. for Success” In her book Adrean covers six steps you need to be “F.I.T.” Personal and Business Development-aligning yourself with the skills you need, Stress Breakers- how to manager stress better, Relationships- Family and Networking , Refreshment- finding ways to encourage yourself, Confidence-How to gain and maintain this important quality, Goals and Future-How to reach your goals and reach for the stars.
Each step has detailed explanations and examples that everyone can relate to. Her book is available for purchase from Amazon, iTunes, Barnes and Noble, and other major retailers as well as her website www.coachadrean.com. Turner is set to compete in the Mrs. Pennsylvania contest this month. She mentioned how growing up she would have liked to compete in pageants when she was younger but did not think it was possible. Therefore, it was not part of her dream. It wasn’t until she researched
pageants online after meeting Mrs. Senior Berks County she realized she could compete. Her mission and reason for joining pageants was to bring the issue of women and wellness in the workplace. She knew that competing in the pageant would give her a larger voice and platform. Although her career change to entrepreneurship came with its challenges Adrean continues to persevere. She continues to help businesses both big and small. “If you are not making mistakes then you are not doing anything.� rdgmag.com - Reading Magazine | 25
Schuylkill River Trail 5K Series Benefits Local Charities Fork & Ale and Alpha & Omega Sports have come together to host the Schuylkill River Trail Charity 5K Series. The monthly 5k held every forth Wednesday (between April and September) will take place at the Fork & Ale restaurant on Route 724 in Douglassville. Fork & Ale is a gastropub-style restaurant with a casual, yet refined atmosphere offering a creative seasonal menu and carefully selected craft beer, wines and hand-crafted cocktails. 26 | Reading Magazine - rdgmag.com
The series is promoted as “a good way to gauge your fitness progression from Spring through Fall� says Mark Raymond, Owner of Alpha & Omega Sports. The family-oriented event also gives back. Fork & Ale have chosen five local charities to donate the race proceeds to. They include the Daniel Boone Athletic Association, Animal Rescue League of Berks County, Monocacy Hill Conservation Association, Toys 4 Tots, Animal House Project.
Entry fee for the 5k series is $60 for the season and each entry is eligible for the raffle following the race. If you prefer to attend an individual race the fee is $15. T-shirts are provided to everyone who registers for the entire series. Enjoy a cold one after the race. Fork & Ale is offering one complimentary draft beer to every participant over the age of 21. In addition, Fork & Ale will also be donating a portion of all food and drink purchases that evening to that race’s specified nonprofit.
Each race will award the Top Overall Male and Top Overall Female Winners, and the top 2 in the following age groups: 17 and under, 18-29, 30-39, 40-49, 50-59, 60+. Overall Race Series The Top Male and Top Female Points Leader of the entire series will each receive a $50 Gift Certificate for Fork and Ale Restaurant! Chester County Running Store will be donating a pair of Men’s and Women’s Running Shoes for raffle following the series. Register: alphaandomegasports.com rdgmag.com - Reading Magazine | 27
Mi Casa Su Casa Cafe Opens in Shillington Farmers Market After celebrating their 10th year anniversary in December, Reading’s popular Latino soul restaurant, Mi Casa Su Casa Cafe is expanding with a stand at the Shillington Farmers Market. The stand will be serving a select “best of ” menu from their popular downtown restaurant. With a large crowd lining each side of the market aisles, owner of Mi Casa Su Casa Cafe, Johanny Cepeda accepted a plaque from the Grater Reading Chamber Alliance president Randy Peers. To officially open the stand Cepeda’s daughter Enitch cut the ribbon. “I want to thank everyone in this room for making a difference and impact in our lives, business, and community. Thank you 28 | Reading Magazine - rdgmag.com
to my family for the patience. This is about building, bonding, exploring culture and enjoying great food. There’s a real sense of community here and we’re grateful to make this our new home.” Said Cepeda during the ribbon cutting. “We want to bring a little bit of our Latin American flavor to the market” Cepeda said. With their main restaurant located in downtown Reading, Mi Casa Su Casa Cafe is a family business that specializes in comfort food and the ‘home-away-fromhome’ community dining experience. Zach Bortz, Owner of Iron Remodeling and Construction gave us a little insight on how the new stand was built. “We talked about several ideas, but in the end, we
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put together a nice modern theme with a terracotta vibe.” With a crew of four Bortz constructed the stand in about a weeks’ time. To celebrate the occasion Cepeda and her family gave the hungry crowd free sample plates of Rice and Beans, Roast Pork and Mac & Cheese. Plus, a delicious Tres Liche Cake topped with fruit. At first Cepeda wasn’t sure the Farmers Market would be a good fit. Her main concern was the expense involved in setting up the stand. But after a few weeks she received a call from Jobany Jio Bedoya, Small Business & Latino Outreach Coordinator from GRCA about an opportunity at the Market. During her
initial visit she was shown a corner full of equipment all ready to help her get to work. “I was so happy to see the stand had a stove, deep fryer, and refrigerator, it gives us the boost we needed to get started here”. In addition to the equipment, Cepeda is also happy to partner with neighbor stand ‘Hartranft’s Poultry & Seafood’ for use of their rotisserie oven. “Our goal is to reach a whole new dynamic of people here in Shillington” Cepeda said. Mi Casa Su Casa Cafe is located in the Market across from Adelphia Seafood and is open Thursday & Friday 7am – 7pm, Saturday 7am- 4pm. rdgmag.com - Reading Magazine | 29
Road to the Reptiles Muhlenberg Community Library Wednesday, May 16th at 6-7pm 3612 Kutztown Road, Laureldale, PA 19605 berkslibraries.org
Wednesday Diversity Mixer
Girls on the Run Spring 5k
Crowne Plaza Reading Tuesday, May 2nd at 5:30-7:30pm 1741 Papermill Road Wyomissing, PA 19610 business.greaterreading.org
Penn State Berks Saturday, May 19th at 9:30am 2080 Tulpehocken Rd, Reading, PA 19610 gotrberks.org
24 Hour Magic Marathon
Exeter May Days Festival
Mingus Magic Shop May 4-5, Friday 5pm - Satuday 5pm 528 Lancaster Ave, Reading, PA 19611
Exeter Township Senior High School May 19th at 12-10pm 201 East 37th Street, Reading, PA 19606 exetermaydays.com
Artisians in the Park
Spring RailRoad Open House
Conrad Weiser Homestead Saturday, May 5th at 9am-4pm 28 Weiser Lane, Womelsdorf, PA 19567 artisansinthepark.com/events
Reading Society of Model Engineers Saturday-Sunday, May 19, 20 at 12-5pm 2060 Mt Laurel Rd, Fleetwood, PA 19522 www.rsme.org
Reading Derby Girls
Stephanie Grace Concert
Bux-Mont vs. Reading @ Skateaway Shillington May 6th at 7-9pm 2275 Lancaster Pike, Reading, PA 19607 readingderbygirls.com
State Theatre of Boyertown Saturday, May 26th at 7-9pm 232 Railroad St, Kutztown, PA 19530 boyertownstatetheatre.com
Berks County Speed Networking
Doodlebug Days
Piazza Honda of Reading Tuesday May 8th at 5:30-8:30pm 915 Lancaster Ave, Reading, PA 19607 berkscountyspeednetworking.com
Allentown and Aubrun Railroad May 26, 27, 28. Departure: 11 am, 1 pm, & 3 pm 232 Railroad St, Kutztown, PA 19530 allentownandauburnrr.com
Reading Skatepark Association
Chicago The Musical
Design Meeting with Grindline Wednesday, May 9th at 7-9pm 535 Canal St, Reading, PA 19602 readingskateparkassociation.org
Santander Performing Arts Center Wednesday, May 30th at 7:30pm 136 North 6th Street, Reading, PA 19601 santander-arena.com/tickets
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Rainy Day
for the Little Ones?
Play with Playdough
Have rainy days been keeping you and your family cooped up inside? Have no fear, we put together a list of our top 5 activities you can do inside with your kids when its too wet and cold to play outside.
Everyone including adults and kids can enjoy playing with playdough. It’s easy to use and can provide countless hours of fun. You can create a masterpiece on your own or use one of the many playdough kits to create fun items such as food or superheros.
Bake Cookies On a cool rainy day who doesn’t like the smell and taste of fresh baked cookies? Both kids and adults alike can have fun making up a batch of chocolate chip cookies. Grab a glass of milk and enjoy your snack! Coloring Looking for a way to express your creativity? Draw anything that comes to mind and have fun creating something new. Not as creative? Follow the link below to printable coloring pages. The pages are free and can be printed right from your computer. http:// www.supercoloring.com/sections/ coloring-pages
Read a Book Reading a good book is the perfect for any rainy or sunny day. Kids young and old will enjoy the adventures that books provide. Reading as a family can be perfect for the kids as well as mom and dad. After reading kids can act out their favorite characters and story lines as well. Build a Fort What’s better then creating a super cool blanket fort in the living room? We certainly can’t think of anything! All you need are blankets, pillows, and a little imagination. Kids and adults alike can have fun playing in their newly created kingdom. rdgmag.com - Reading Magazine | 31
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