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RING IN 2026 WITH THE MUSIC OF JAMES BOND WED DEC. 31 7:30PM S ANTANDER PERFORMING ARTS CEN TER
Join the RSO for an unforgettable evening of glamour, danger, and pure cinematic swagger! Unleash the iconic sounds of 007 this New Year’s Eve!
This is no ordinary concert. This is a mission.
Andrew Constantine Conductor
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December
PH
CONTENTS
25
departments
56
8 BERKS BITS 9 AROUND TOWN
25
Beat the Winter Blues
10 IN THE LIMELIGHT
Fred Sheeler, Berks County Recorder of Deeds
11 CHECK IT
Berks-based Experiences to Gift
12 THOUGHTS FROM GRCA 13 B SCENE
Night at the Museum
16 THIS MONTH What to Do & Where to Go
24 THE LOOK 27 FIVE THINGS
Delicious Donuts
56 LIVING IN STYLE
PHOTO BY HEIDI REUTER
Christmas Cool in Muhlenberg Township
62 DINING OUT
3 Fine Dining Locales
features
33 All the Best! Celebrating 35 Best Of winners who make Berks County a great place to live.
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DECEMBER 2025 | berkscountyliving.com
plus 28 SHOP LOCAL SPOTLIGHTS 31 HOLIDAY FUN SPOTLIGHTS 46 WINTER-READY PROFILES
On the Cover Who’s the Best? They are! Turn to page 33 to see who you voted tops in 35 categories.
PHOTO COURTESY BOSCOV’S
Party Time!
VOLUME 26, NO. 12 | DECEMBER 2025
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how to contact us EDITORIAL: We want to hear from you — we really do! Send your compliments, gripes, story ideas and suggestions to: Editor, Berks County Living, GoggleWorks Center for the Arts, 201 Washington St., Suite 525, Reading, PA 19601 OR BCLEditor@BerksCountyLiving. com. Written correspondence must be signed and include a mailing address, telephone number and an email address, when possible. ADVERTISING: To request a media kit or receive other information about advertising, email RJones@BerksCountyLiving.com. SUBSCRIPTIONS: For new subscriptions, changes of address or questions involving an existing subscription, call 800.896.1392, Mon-Fri, 9am-4:30pm, EST. High-quality reprints of articles that appear in Berks County Living are available by emailing RJones@BerksCountyLiving.com. Back issues are available subject to inventory. FIND US ONLINE: To contact our staff, get advertising information, obtain writer and photographer guidelines, submit an event for the Calendar of Events, or to be included in the Dining Guide, visit our website: www.BerksCountyLiving.com. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Berks County Living, PO Box 293142, Kettering, OH 45429. Berks County Living (ISSN 1542-9334) is published monthly by IDP Publications, 3245 Freemansburg Avenue, Easton, PA 18045-7118. Annual subscriptions are $19.95. (Canadian and foreign one-year rate is $40, US funds only.) Single copy price $3.95. Periodical postage paid at Easton, PA and additional mailing office. All contents © Berks County Living 2025. Nothing contained herein may be reproduced in whole or in part without the expressed written consent of the publisher. Publisher disclaims all responsibility for omissions or errors. All rights reserved. We welcome, but cannot be responsible for, unsolicited manuscripts, contributions, or photographs. Unsolicited materials cannot be returned unless accompanied by a self-addressed, stamped envelope. Printed in USA.
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LETTER FROM THE EDITOR
STAFF
SPEAKS
Celebrating the Best
You can receive any holiday treat you want from the holiday treat fairy. What’s it going to be? Sincerely,
NIKKI M. MURRY
NMurry@BerksCountyLiving.com
She/Her/Hers
Editor-in-Chief
one MORE THING
PHOTO BY TANIA COLAMARINO, AMA PHOTOGRAPHY | MAKEUP BY THERESA VIOLETTE
You’re reading our most beloved issue of the year! Get ready for the reveal of who came out on top in our 2025 Best of Berks awards as voted on by YOU — our readers. This year tallied thousands upon thousands of votes in 35 categories — some familiar and some new — at berkscountyliving.com. Turn to page 33 to meet your winners. On page 51 we welcome South Mountain YMCA Camps to our Lifetime Winner lineup. Lifetime honorees have achieved 10 or more wins in their respective categories. Next year, Manor Golf Club will up the tally to 11 lifetime notables as this year the course has reached the 10-time win milestone. With our ballot being write-in in nature, achieving a win is especially sweet. It means those achieving top honors are top-of-mind with voters in their respective categories. Congratulations to all! I’d like to extend a special thank you to the Kutztown University students and Professor Melissa Nurczynski for their help in writing the profiles for this year’s winners. As a graduate of KU, it’s always a pleasure to head back to campus. ‘Tis also the season for festive decorating! Those looking for some inspiration are sure to find it in our Living In Style section on page 56. Trust us: this holiday home in Muhlenberg Township is a stunner.
Know a great pay-it-forward story that happened here in Berks County?
We want to hear it! Reach out to bcleditor@berkscountyliving.com.
THIS MONTH ON BERKSCOUNTYLIVING.COM
1. 2. 3.
“If the holiday treat fairy could bring back my mom’s Christmas cookies, with every variety she baked, that would be the sweetest gift.”
Robyn L. Jones, publisher “It’d be Peanut Butter Blossoms for me. My sister always makes us a batch of Christmas cookies, and they’re my favorite. I just have to grab some before everyone else devours them.”
Nikki M. Murry, editor “I would like my mother-in-law’s coffee cake. She only makes it around the holidays, and it’s a special recipe that a dear friend shared with only her.”
Elizabeth Beebe, account executive “My Gram always made a party mix for the holidays. Since she’s no longer with us, my mom and I have tried to duplicate it, but I always feel like it’s missing something. Boy, what I’d give to have one last party mix made by my Gram.”
Sara Woodward, account executive Treat Yourself to Delicious Eats. They’re healthy, too! Browse Calm Eats for recipes by Wyomissing resident Daniela Modesto in our blogs section. Browse the Archives. Check out past issues if you missed one or want to view an older article. Find them under “The Magazine.” Get Bonus Content. It’s free! Sign up to be a BCL Insider and get our monthly e-newsletter, info on special events and more. Just click “subscribe.”
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Stay up to date and RSVP for Winterfest, featured in our Berks Bits section, by searching “Winterfest at Schoolside Plaza 2025.”
“My favorite holiday treat is chocolate crinkle cookies. They are soft, chewy cookies with a crunchy exterior, usually dusted with powdered sugar.”
Abigail Angstadt, editorial assistant “I love making and eating kiffles but haven’t had time to make them for the past few years. If the fairy could shower me in kiffles, that would be perfect.”
Quynh Fisher, senior graphic designer “A Christmas dinner cooked by my Grammie. I was too picky to appreciate what an amazing cook she was when I was young, but I sure do miss it now!”
Elaine Wyborski, design consultant 6
DECEMBER 2025 | berkscountyliving.com
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To our leadership donors, local foundations, and hundreds of our friends & neighbors for supporting Spotlight PA’s independent, unbiased local news in Berks County. Annie McCain Madonia Arthur and Louise Grim Balasios Lahaniatis and Lucine Sihelnik Berks Alliance Berks County Community Foundation Bill Natale and Diane Bright Breidegam Family Foundation Customers Bank Dave and Cathy Myers Henry Janssen Foundation Jim and Judy Boscov Jody and Bill Widing Julia Klein and Eric Jenkins Katie Hannon Kay Haring and Tom Wessner Kim and Kevin Murphy Marlin Miller, Jr. Family Foundation Merrill and Nancy Brenner Patricia Giles Paul Hallacher Paula and Patrick Barrett Sue McCain Strausstown Rod & Gun Club The Kurr Foundation The Wyomissing Foundation Tim and Jamie Miksiewicz United Way of Berks County Join the movement for more and better news in Berks County at spotlightpa.org/support
berkscountyliving.com | DECEMBER 2025
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PHOTO COURTESY MIMI WRAPS
PHOTO COURTESY READING SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA
BERKS BITS
IT’S IN THE Decorating Details
Mimi Wraps is a local gift-wrapping company founded by Berks resident Mimi Kolb. Kolb’s aim with her side gig is to bring joy to the community through her quirky and colorful wrapping skills. “I want every gift to be full of pleasure, delight, a little humor and a lot of happiness before it’s even opened,” Kolb says. At Mimi Wraps, the motto is, “You pick the gift; I’ll do the wrapping.” Kolb wraps gifts for any occasion: birthdays, holidays, anniversaries, even “just because” gifts. Mimi is here to make you look good. “The beauty is in the presentation,” she says. “It’s not just about the gift, it’s about framing it in the right way.” As a graphic designer, Kolb is familiar with how to make things visually appealing. Standout elements of her style include attention to detail, artful demand of color, the use of fun patterns and incorporating unexpected details, such as the addition of a flower or novelty toy. Learn more at mimiwraps.co. — ABIGAIL ANGSTADT
ILLUSTRATION BY ELENABSL/ADOBE STOCK
Looking for a unique piece celebrating the holidays to display in your home? A one-of-a-kind gift? Head to one of these local craft shows!
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DECEMBER 2025 | berkscountyliving.com
Say goodbye to 2025 and hello
Get Dec. 7 from Noon to 4pm on your calendar if you’re a fan of local shopping for the holiday season. That’s when Schoolside Plaza in Leesport will play host to its 4th annual Winterfest event, organized by Sherri Giacobello, owner of Sincerity Massage Therapy. The family-friendly event was created to give visibility to the businesses at the location. Says Giacobello, “A lot of people drive by and don’t realize what’s actually here. So, I thought, why not bring the community to us?” Tenants at the Plaza are on board. Just a few include: Whoodles Pet Grooming, All Things Disneyana, Integrity Insurance and more. Crafters and vendors are also invited to set up in the Plaza’s hallways and empty suites, and food trucks are on-site, too. The event may be most known for its large basket raffle, with funds supporting a worthy cause each year. This year the beneficiary is Berks EMS. For more info visit “Schoolside Plaza Winterfest 2025” on Facebook or email winterfestatssp@gmail.com.
to 2026 with a night of music performed by the Reading Symphony Orchestra. On Dec. 31 beginning at 7:30pm in the Santander Performing Arts Center, Reading, the RSO will perform unique orchestral and vocal arrangements celebrating the timeless music of James Bond. Selections will span five decades of films and will showcase the work of legendary artists including John Barry, Shirley Bassey, Paul McCartney and Adele. There’s truly something for everyone. Says Music Director and Conductor Andrew Constantine, “Movies are often great introductions to classical music. Enjoy the classic theme song as well as pieces like Goldfinger, Diamonds are Forever and Skyfall, to name a few. For tickets and more info visit readingsymphony.org.
— ABIGAIL ANGSTADT
— ABIGAIL ANGSTADT
Winterfest in Leesport
HOLIDAY DÉCOR & MORE
RING IN THE NEW YEAR with the Symphony
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Get to GoggleWorks.
Pop Over to Reading Hospital.
On Dec. 5 from 5-8pm and Dec. 6 from 10am-4pm, the GoggleWorks Center for the Arts will host its 2025 Handcrafted Holiday Market. The two-day pop-up shop is centered around artists and makers selling high-quality handmade gifts for the season. goggleworks.org/ handcrafted-holiday-market
At the Holiday Pop-Up on Dec. 10 from 9am to 2pm, visit Reading Hospital’s cafeteria to check out 10 vendors. Just check in at the security desk and be on your way! Proceeds will benefit programs funded by The Friends of Reading Hospital.
Support Wilson Baseball.
The Wilson Baseball Booster Club will host a Christmas Craft Show on Dec. 6 from 9am-3pm in the Wilson West Middle School. Shop crafters and vendors, visit with Santa, enjoy food on-site and more.
AROUND TOWN
Ti p s to beat Seasonal
Affective Disorder PHOTO BY MARIDAV/ADOBE STOCK
BY JERRY REIMENSCHNEIDER
There are two reasons Kelli
Schulthess tried to bundle up and take walks at Gring’s Mill last winter. First, it helped boost her vitamin D levels, which bloodwork revealed were low. Second, she likes to practice what she preaches. Schulthess is a licensed professional counselor (LPC) in Wyomissing, and each year as leaves begin to fall and daylight dwindles, she prepares for the annual onset of clients suffering from Seasonal Affective Disorder, or SAD — often too breezily called “the winter blues.” But it’s weightier than that. “Yes, it is,” Schulthess says. “During the wintertime, when the days get shorter and levels of vitamin D often drop, it can be very difficult for people who suffer from this.” Hence her Gring’s Mill walks — and her consistent counsel to get outside, steal some sunlight, stay moving and pay careful attention to the body’s basic needs as the days get shorter. It’s advice backed by Jeff Laubach, an LPC in West Lawn. Like Schulthess, Laubach sees an uptick in calls beginning each autumn and extending into winter.
“It’s kind of like clockwork, literally,” he says. “We move the clocks back each year (to end Daylight Saving Time), and within a week the phones start ringing off the hook.” Laubach says lack of light is SAD’s primary trigger.
Four Ways to Fight It
That’s why light therapy is what many people turn to and is among four main treatment approaches professionals recommend to SAD sufferers: • Lifestyle adjustments: regular exercise, attention to nutrition and vitamin D, maintaining a consistent sleep schedule and getting outdoors, even if it’s only for 10 to 15 minutes. • Light therapy: periods of exposure to an intensely bright light. “It mimics sunlight,” Laubach says. • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): helps patients recognize and replace negative thought patterns. • Medication: for severe cases, prescriptions can help sufferers through the worst months.
“This isn’t a clinical word, but for most people, seasonal depression is just feeling more ‘blah,’” Laubach says. “But for some, it shifts you from your baseline emotionally. So if your baseline is, ‘I’m pretty happy-golucky normally,’ this is more a ‘blah,’ that’s one thing. But if your baseline is depressed to begin with, the dregs of winter can stir up things like suicidal ideation.” He urges those on that end of the spectrum to immediately seek professional help.
Other Techniques
Schulthess also employs some creative alternatives when counseling SAD sufferers. One of her patients dreads the first chill of autumn because it signals months of low mood ahead. To help her cope, Schulthess guides her through mindfulness exercises. The woman closes her eyes and imagines her favorite beach, describing the sights, sounds and smells. “It’s almost like when we do a mindfulness activity, she gets a little mini-vacation for 15 or
20 minutes,” Schulthess says. “Somewhere in the brain, there is an experience that creates a happy memory almost as if it actually happened.” Schulthess also has clients make lists to stick with healthy daily routines like showering and connecting with others. “When you don’t feel good, a lot of times all you can think about is, ‘I don’t feel good,’” she says. “Having an outline of things you should do, you know those things can make you feel better.”
Learn More Who’s at risk?
About 5–6 percent of U.S. adults experience SAD, most commonly in January and February, but onset of symptoms for others comes as soon as early autumn.
SAD in the sunshine. A rare “summer SAD” exists, with symptoms often including restlessness, anxiety and insomnia.
berkscountyliving.com | DECEMBER 2025
9
IN THE LIMELIGHT
Fred Sheeler
BERKS COUNTY RECORDER OF DEEDS BY MARIAN FRANCES WOLBERS PHOTO BY JOHN A. SECOGES, SECOGES PHOTOGRAPHICS
Fred Sheeler has served Berks County as Recorder of Deeds from 2008-2020 and then from 2024 on. In addition to handling real estate transactions (and related documents from liens to land plans), veterans records and more, this genial leader has implemented electronic records, making all documents dating back to 1752 available online.
Q:
What does an average day in your life look like?
In the office, the day usually starts off with getting back to phone messages and emails that people sent — at all hours of the night. (Laughs.) Then we’re usually checking out how many documents are now here to record, because they come in overnight nowadays; a lot of submitters work second shifts or are in different time zones. There are questions at the counter, questions from our staff. There are sometimes unusual documents, such as a handmade deed. We have to take special care of those to prevent fraud.
Q:
What are some major challenges?
Literally, recording. Example: a mortgage is a mortgage — a promise to repay. Based on the
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DECEMBER 2025 | berkscountyliving.com
value of real estate, anything else that was recorded here went into deed books, which could be a release of slavery or transfer of a slave, or the rights of way that you gave somebody to traverse the property to get to their own property... There are many miscellaneous document types. We’re just finishing up indexing what we began in 2009. We’ve had to look at visual images of the index books; we moved from searching for documents from visual index books to a completely electronic search engine.
Q:
Is history a motivator?
I just love history. It does feel like I put that love of history to work, making historical documents available to everyone who wants to use the information. I have a degree
in business administration and a minor in history from Kutztown, and I’m currently board president of Berks History Center.
Q:
Isn’t your office famous for its A Christmas Story display?
I do like that movie! I visited the house where it was filmed, in Ohio, this May. Part of my connection is a nostalgic thing because it’s like going back to my great-grandfather’s time. He was an Italian immigrant. When I visited my great-grandparents, it was like going back to 1940. I mean, they hadn’t gotten new furniture since the 30s or 40s, and their huge, wall-hung sink was just like the one in A Christmas Story. When I still had my mortgage business in Hamburg, my wife got me a leg lamp for my birthday,
November 27 th. I put that on display, and I can’t tell you how many people would stop by and knock. When I first came in to the Recorder’s Office in 2008, I put it up; I bought a set of furniture and a wall of windows, so you felt like you were in the movie.
Fast Facts Paper Pile-up. If we had continued storing paper, we would be taking up several floors of the County Services Center with deed books.
Auto Enthusiast. Sheeler has a 1963 Mercury Comet and collects old cars. The one car he craves: a 1926 Packard — the same model his great-grandfather owned.
PH OTO BY AU USANAKU L /AD O B E
S TO
CK
Experiences TO GIFT BERKS-BASED EXPERIENCES
PHOTO BY FRUITCOCKTAIL/ADOBE STOCK
BY NIKKI M. MURRY
For the Berks County friend or family member on your holiday gift-giving list that seemingly has everything or who has requested less “stuff,” consider treating them to one of these experiences…
Help them take to the skies over Berks County with a hot air balloon ride with American Freedom Hot Air Balloon based in Morgantown. They’ll see the area from a whole new perspective with an experience they won’t forget anytime soon. Pricing starts at $225 per person for traditional rides that can accommodate up to 4 people. Included is a customary champagne toast following the flight.
americanfreedomhotairballoon.com
2
FOR THE RELAXATION LOVER.
Grab a membership to the Reading Science Center so he or she can immerse themselves in discovery all year long. The Center features more than 50 STEM-themed interactive exhibits in a 7000-square-foot space. Individual and family memberships start at $40. readingsciencecenter.org/membership
For the Outdoorsy Type.
For the Jewelry or Accessories Collector.
Purchase a certificate for a custom piece they can create and pass down to generations to come at Gilded Design Studio in Wyomissing. The studio specializes in custom jewelry design and jewelry repair, too. Their goal is to bring jewelry dreams to life. gildeddesignstudio.com
4
Know someone that likes to challenge him or herself? Grab a certificate for private lessons at Wing Pointe Sporting Clays in Hamburg. Whether they’re new to clay shooting or working on their form, the one-on-one shotgun training offers focused, hands-on instruction in a safe and supportive environment. Lessons start at $90/hour. wing-pointe.com/services/private-lessons
5
FOR THE MYSTERY SEEKER.
6
FOR THE CIGAR AFICIONADO.
Head to Legacy Cigar Lounge in West Reading and pick up a membership. Benefits include 5-8 complimentary cigars, discounts on cigars and apparel, a personalized humidor locker, member-only events, guest access for two people and more. Must be 21 years or older. Monthly For the Animal Hugger. memberships start at Know someone that just can’t get enough $100. legacycigarpa.com thesaltlounge.net time with animal friends? Plan an outing to Kitt’s Café & Gandalf’s Garden in Blandon. Enjoy coffee and treats in one area, For the Wellness Enthusiast. then venture inside the cat quarters to Book a Red Light Therapy session or package for them at Baja Beach Wellness. Red Light cuddle up to adoptable cats and kittens! Therapy is a non-invasive treatment that uses low-level wavelengths of red and near-infrared light The money spent at the café benefits the to promote healing and rejuvenation at the cellular level. It also has been known to improve mental care of the resident cats. It’s a win-win! health and mood, stimulate hair growth and stimulate collagen production. bajabeachwellness.com kittscafe.com
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For the person in yo ur life that loves to get ou t and explore, plan a session at W est Reading’s Encrypted Escape Ro om. For an hour, he or she, along with friends of their choosing, can be stu ck in a room full of clues to help m ake an escape. Different rooms fe ature different themes, so they can choose the one they’re most intrigue d by. encryptedwr.com
PHOTO BY PIXEL-SHOT/ADOBE STOCK
Book a Reiki session at The Salt Lounge in Wyomissing. Reiki is a deep relaxation technique for activating, restoring and balancing natural energy. It aids physical, mental, emotional and spiritual well-being, relieving stress. A 1-hour session in a private salt room is $90.
3
FOR THE SMALL SCIENTISTS.
PHOTO BY LUNEVA/PEOPLEIMAGES.COM/ADOBE STOCK
For the Adventurer.
8 CHECK IT
9
THOUGHTS FROM GRCA
Saluting 2025’s Best of Berks
BY LEAH FASSNACHT, SENIOR DIRECTOR OF COMMUNICATIONS & MARKETING, GRCA The Greater Reading Chamber Alliance (GRCA) is proud to represent a dynamic community of businesses that continue to shape Berks County’s economic landscape. From legacy institutions to innovative newcomers, GRCA members consistently demonstrate excellence, creativity and a deep commitment to the region. This year, many GRCA members are honored in this edition for winning Best of Berks awards, and GRCA is thrilled to celebrate their well-deserved recognition. Fleetwood Bank, named Best Financial Institution, has been serving Berks County since 1907. With seven locations throughout the region, Fleetwood Bank remains a trusted partner for personal and business banking, offering hometown service with modern solutions. Gourmand, winner of Best Food Truck, has elevated the humble fry into a culinary experience. Known for inventive creations like poutine with crumbled goat cheese and dill pickle fries, Gourmand brings bold flavor to Berks County’s streets. Gilded Design Studio earned Best Jewelry Store (non-chain) for its artistry and personal touch. The studio specializes in custom pieces that reflect individuality and elegance, turning jewelry into wearable stories crafted in the heart of creativity.
Clover Hill Vineyards & Winery was named Best Local Winery. With six vineyards spanning 80 acres across Berks and Lehigh counties, Clover Hill produces 80,000 gallons of wine annually. Signature offerings include Vidal Verde, made from 100 percent estate-grown grapes, and Turtle Rock Red. Mimmo’s Restaurant took home Best Outdoor Dining Spot. Family-owned and -operated since 1997, Mimmo’s serves Italian favorites in a serene outdoor setting complete with a grand waterfall — perfect for al fresco dining. Bell Tower Salon, Medi-Spa & Store was honored as Best Pampering Spot. Since becoming a medi-spa in 2003, Bell Tower has offered advanced skincare, Botox, nutritional counseling and medical massages in a relaxing, physiciansupervised environment. Clean Eatz earned Best Place for Healthy Eats. It offers balanced meals and wellness support tailored to every lifestyle. Their mission to “Change Livez” through nutrition and education resonates with health-conscious customers across Berks. The Reading Public Museum (RPM) was named Best Place to Enjoy the Arts. For more than a century, RPM has inspired curiosity through hands-on exhibits in science, art and history, welcoming visitors of all ages to explore and learn.
Manor Golf Club received Best Public Golf Course honors. Established in 1917 and opened in 1928, the Sinking Spring course was designed by Alexander Findlay, the “father of American golf.” Its championship-style layout rewards skill and strategy over sheer power. The Heritage of Green Hills was recognized as Best Residential Senior Living Community. Located on nearly 80 scenic acres in Shillington, the community offers vibrant living, friendship and fun for older adults seeking an active lifestyle. The YMCA of Reading & Berks County earned Best Summer Camp. With multiple locations offering day camps and playground programs, the YMCA provides children with opportunities for physical activity, learning and water play in a safe, engaging environment. Sweet Ride Ice Cream was named Best Sweet Treat Shop. What began as a beachside bicycle dream has grown into mobile ice cream vehicles and a nostalgic parlor. Owners Angie and Chris serve joy by the scoop, proving that happiness really can come in a homemade waff le cone. Congratulations to all the winners — and thank you for making Berks County a sweeter, stronger and more vibrant place to live.
Upcoming Event Join us for Power Networking over lunch on Dec. 18 from 11:30am to 1pm at the Inn on Main, Oley. Register at greaterreading.org/innonmain.
Congratulations to the BEST OF BERKS Winners from the Berks Attorneys at Barley Snyder! Matthew Brushwood
Eden Bucher
Benjamin Leisawitz
Frederick Nice
Timothy Dietrich
Caitlin Long
Brian Ott
Susanna Fultz
Jonah Markle
Charles Phillips
Thad Gelsinger
Matthew Mayer
Troy Rider
Zachary Griffith
Sarah McCahon
Silas Ruiz-Steele
Charles Haws
Keith Mooney
Latisha Bernard Schuenemann
Beth Kohl
Kevin Moore
Allen Shollenberger
Paul Troisi
WWW.BARLEY.COM
2755 Century Blvd., Wyomissing, PA 19610 READING • LANCASTER • YORK • HARRISBURG LEBANON • HANOVER • GETTYSBURG • MALVERN SCHUYLKILL HAVEN • HUNT VALLEY, MD • COLUMBIA, MD 12
DECEMBER 2025 | berkscountyliving.com
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Bonus Photos! For more photos, check out berkscountyliving.com/b-scene.
Night at the
Museum
PHOTOS BY ZERBE PHOTOGRAPHY
1. Harold & Diane Hamilton. 2. Aimee Pfeiffer & Christie Read. 3. Elizabeth Davis & Chad Willman. 4. Heather & Jesse Hoover, Beth Merklinger & Connie Miller. 5. English Bradley. 6. Nancy & Ray Bradley. 7. Samantha & Michael Dietrich. 8. Regina Button & Nancy Aulebach. 9. Alyssa Shuman & Bailey Coon. 10. Amy & Mahlon Auker. 11. Clinton & Elizabeth Good. 12. Amber & Gerald Martin. 13. Dan & Cheryl Wozniak. 14. David Barr & Ann Calvaresi Barr. 15. Wayne & Kristin Gehris. 16. Raquel Sebastiani & Pablo Gallo. 17. Mary Weaver & Craig Leister. 18. Tish Davis & Tony Clayter. 19. Alan Seltzer & Phyllis Lerner. 20. Melissa Lease & Tommy Sorensen. 21. Verena Aibel. 22. Melissa & Chris Thompson. 23. Kat Ketter. 24. Debi Harbach & Jennifer Geunes. 25. Peter Guerrieri. 26. Ralph Hellmold & Susan Eastham. 27. Anthony Batista & Cassie Kiebach. 28. Ellen & Dan Sargent. 29. Samantha & Dave Ernst. 30. Sydney & Irina Ernst. 31. Lisa Boria. 32. Fred & Amy Nice, Dr. Katharine Navonne & Robert Schlegel. 33. Joan London. berkscountyliving.com | DECEMBER 2025
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Exeter 6 Hearthstone Ct Reading, PA 19606
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See for yourself — scan to learn more or call 610.775.2300 to schedule your tour.
14
DECEMBER 2025 | berkscountyliving.com
December
THIS MONTH
COMPILED BY ABIGAIL ANGSTADT
5
FESTIVAL OF TREES Save the date for a night of decorated trees, food and great music to support the animals of Berks County at the Animal Rescue League with Berks County’s signature fundraiser. For tickets and more info visit berksarl.org.
CHRISTMAS WITH THE CELTS
KRINGLE 28 KRIS 5-MILE RUN
PHOTO COURTESY OF DANIEL BOONE HOMESTEAD
6 CHILLIN’ ON MAIN Join a day of fun, food and festivities at the ultimate community event that brings everyone together. Philadelphia Avenue will be buzzing with activities, live entertainment, holiday shopping and plenty of opportunities to connect and celebrate the heart of the community. For more info visit buildingabetterboyertown.org.
11am–4pm | Philadelphia Avenue | Boyertown 16
PHOTO COURTESY BERKS COUNTY AGRICULTURAL CENTER
7:30pm | Miller Center for the Arts | Reading
PHOTO COURTESY OF BUILDINGABETTERBOYERTOWN
PHOTO COURTESY OF THE CELTS
13
Enjoy a wonderful combination of timeless ancient Irish Christmas carols and lively Irish dance along with modern contemporary songs with Irish instrumentation. For tickets and more info visit millercenter.racc.edu.
5–10pm | Redner’s Events Center | Reading
DECEMBER 2025 | berkscountyliving.com
Looking to squeeze in one last fun event over the Christmas break? This race is always a family favorite. Run along a gorgeous trail in the Blue Marsh Lake area and a section of the Union Canal Trail next to a beautiful trout stream. For more info visit pagodapacers.com.
7 A HOMESTEAD HOLIDAY
For many families in 18th-century America, Christmas was a time for celebration, feasting and frivolity. Join the Daniel Boone Homestead and experience Christmas as it was almost 300 years ago. For more info visit thedanielboonehomestead.org.
Noon–4pm | Daniel Boone Homestead | Birdsboro
10am | Berks County Agricultural Center | Leesport
NEW YEAR’S EVE 31 PAJAMA PARTY The Reading Royals are playing the Norfolk Admirals. Ring in the New Year with a pajama party at Santander Arena. Enjoy a concourse photobooth and special New Year’s celebration balloon drop. For more info visit royalshockey.com.
4pm | Santander Arena | Reading
ILLUSTRATION BY DMYTRO TYKHOKHOD/ADOBE STOCK
WHAT TO DO & WHERE TO GO
ART EXHIBITS & GALLERIES
Through Jan. 18
PRESENTS
Dressing the Abbey: Exhibit
Get ready to experience 36 original costumes worn by the stars of Downton Abbey ™ that depict fashions worn by the British aristocracy in the first few decades of the 20 th century. For more info visit readingpublicmuseum.org.
Reading Public Museum | Reading
sa ormance Three perf
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Orchestra!
CLASSICAL MUSIC
Dec. 31
Reading Symphony Orchestra: Ring in 2026 with the Music of James Bond
Join the Reading Symphony Orchestra and Music Director Andrew Constantine for a spectacular New Year’s Eve performance celebrating the timeless music of James Bond films. For more info and tickets visit santander-arena.com.
7:30pm | Santander Performing Arts Center | Reading
CONCERTS & NIGHTLIFE
Dec. 14
Kenny G: Miracles Holiday & Hits
A crossover jazz icon, saxophonist Kenny G has enjoyed phenomenal success across the pop, jazz and R&B charts for more than three decades. Kenny G is known for his lyrical and emotive style, a sound that has garnered a loyal fan base and made him one of the biggestselling instrumentalists of all time. For more tickets and info visit santander-arena.com.
20 • 1:00pm DEC Dec Dec 20 • 6:00pm
20 & 21
Dec 21 • 2:00pm
Schaeffer Auditorium Kutztown, Pennsylvania tickets, vis
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7:30pm | Santander Performing Arts Center | Reading
Dec. 14
The Peter Mayer Christmas Concert
Hosted by Crime Alert Berks County, enjoy the music of Peter Mayer and The Stars and Promises Band. The performance will include traditional carols, holiday classics and original Christmas compositions. For more info visit fleetwoodbank.com/news-and-events.
7pm | DoubleTree by Hilton | Reading
berkscountyliving.com | DECEMBER 2025
17
THIS MONTH
Dec. 5–7
Christkindlmarkt
ILLUSTRATION BY VERONICA / ADOBE STOCK
FESTIVALS
Through Dec. 23 Holiday Lights at Grings Mill
Christkindlmarkt is a most gentle festival, a time in which town centers are transformed into preChristmas marketplaces specializing in toys and goodies for children as well as traditional Yule decor. For more info visit readingliederkranz.com.
Enjoy holiday lights and decoration arrange ments as well as live music and food trucks. Admission and parking are free. For more info visit berkspa.gov.
Reading Liederkranz Club | Reading
5:30–8:30pm | Gring’s Mill Recreation Center | Wyomissing
Dec. 14
Dec. 5 & 6
Berks History Center’s Holiday Craft Boutique & Open House
Fri: 5–8pm & Sat: 10am–4pm | GoggleWorks Center for the Arts | Reading
11am–4pm | Berks County Historical Center | Reading
Christmas Excursions booking now! Santa’s Polar Bear Express ‘Twas the Night Before Christmas Winter Wonderland Dinner Adventure Snowflake Special
Visit our website for additional details! THE COLEBROOKDALE RAILROAD 64 South Washington Street | Boyertown, PA 19512 www.colebrookdalerailroad.com | 610.367.0200
DECEMBER 2025 | berkscountyliving.com
National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation Night
The Reading Royals are playing the Norfolk Admirals. Come enjoy what will be a great game of hockey accompanied by special Christmas Vacationthemed festivities. For more info visit royalshockey.com.
HISTORICAL
This twoday popup shop is centered around artists and makers selling highquality handmade gifts for the holiday season. Paywhatyouwish admission fee. For more info visit goggleworks.org.
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Dec. 13
7pm | Santander Arena | Reading
This special event offers free admission to BHC's museum, where you can explore the rich history of Berks County while enjoying a unique shopping experience. Talented craft vendors will be stationed throughout the museum, offering an array of handmade goods perfect for holiday gifts. For more info visit berkshistory.org.
Handcrafted Holiday Market
SPORTS
THEATER & DANCE
Dec. 5–14 Annie
Little orphan Annie charms everyone’s hearts despite a nexttonothing start in 1930s New York City. She is determined to find the parents who abandoned her years ago on the doorstep of a New York City Orphanage that is run by the mean Miss Hannigan. For more info and tickets visit readingcivic.org.
Reading Civic Theatre | Reading
Dec. 20 & 21
Berks Ballet Theatre’s The Nutcracker
For five decades, audiences have been swept away by Clara’s enchanting journey — where a cherished Nutcracker comes to life and whisks her into a world of sparkling snow, delectable sweets and the timeless beauty of Tchaikovsky’s iconic score. Celebrate 50 years with Berks Ballet Theatre! For tickets and more info visit berksballettheatre.com/tickets.
Sat: 1 & 6pm, Sun: 2pm Schaeffer Auditorium | Kutztown University
Kenya Wildlife Safari
December 6-16, 2026 from $8,195 pp sharing*
• Meet & Greet • Transfers and game drives in a custom 7-passenger 4x4 vehicle with a guaranteed window seat • Meals per itinerary
• 2 Nts. Nairobi, Kenya • 2 Nts. Samburu • 1 Nt. Lake Nakuru • 3 Nts. Maasai Mara INTERNATIONAL AIR INCL FROM JFK 610-374-5600 AAA.com Agent consultation by appointment
WINE
Dec. 6–7 & 13–14 Cookie and Wine Pairing Weekends
This journey blends iconic game drives, breathtaking scenery, and warm Kenyan hospitality into an adventure of a lifetime.
*Price per person in US Dollars, land and roundtrip economy airfare from New York (JFK). Subject to change.
DISTINCTIVELY UNIQUE GIFT GIVING FOR THE DISCERNING TRAVELER
Enjoy samples of locally made cookies paired with a featured wine from each trail winery. Enjoy a day out: plan a self-guided tour of winter landscapes in Berks County wineries. For more info visit berkscountywinetrail.com.
Noon–5pm | Berks County Wine Trail Wineries
Holiday Lights AT GRING’S MILL
December
3|4|5|6|7 10 | 11 | 12 | 13 | 14 16 | 17 |18 | 19 20 | 21 | 22 | 23
As rates continue to rise for auto, home, and business insurance, we are still beating our competition— and delivering knowledgeable solutions to help you prepare for whatever life has in store. Call or visit our website today to get a quote.
5:30 to 8:30 PM
Facebook @ BerksCountyParks
606 Museum Rd., Reading 610.375.6142 info@MGSINSURANCE.COM
berkscountyliving.com | DECEMBER 2025
19
THIS MONTH WHAT ELSE
Dec. 6
Pictures With Santa
Join Museum Educators and other community partners and celebrate Christmas and other winter cultural holidays. Families can visit and have their pictures taken with Santa and Mrs. Claus. For more info visit readingpublicmuseum.org.
9am–1pm | Reading Public Museum | Reading
Dec. 12 & 14
Centre Park Historic District Christmas House Tours
Visit our store on Rt. 222 just south of Shillington Store Hours: Mon.–Sat. 8:30am–5:30pm
2267 Lancaster Pike, Shillington | 610.775.0335 Call 800.777.3314 for a free catalog
Take a road trip back in time! Mention this ad for a FREE gift.
Friday features a guided moonlight tour and cocktail party for $75 per person while Sunday offers a self-guided tour for $30 per person, or add on brunch for a $70 combo ticket. Brunch runs from 10:30am–1pm. For tickets and more info visit centreparkhistoricdistrict.org/ christmas-house-tour.
Fri: 6–10pm, Sun: 11am–5pm | Centre Park Historic District | Reading
“One of the greatest automotive treasures… anywhere.” —Stewart Howden,
president, classic auto mall
SIP. SMOKE. DINE + UNWIND. Discover Pennsylvania’s Transportation Heritage
PREMIUM CIGARS + DRINKS TAST Y BITES + GAMES LIVE MUSIC + SPECIAL EVENTS
Open Daily 9:30-4 • 85 S. Walnut Street, Boyertown, PA
boyertownmuseum.org • 610.367.2090 BMHV BCL ad 4.875 x 2.5.indd 1
The picture says more than words...
10/23/24 4:10 PM
Merry Christmas Our gifts are more than things and last well beyond the season!
GIFTS | TOYS | NICE THINGS Stop in and see us, you will be surprised at what you will find. HOLIDAY HOURS: Mon–Sat 10–5, Sundays 12–4, CLOSING AT 4PM ON CHRISTMAS EVE
1232 Oysterdale Rd., Oley 610-987-6055 evelynandharriettesgifts.com Located 1 mile north of the Rt. 73, Pleasantville traffic light.
20
DECEMBER 2025 | berkscountyliving.com
OPEN TO THE PUBLIC
559 Penn Avenue, West Reading 484.258.1707 LEGACYCIGARPA.COM
Dec. 12 & 19
‘Twas the Night Before Christmas
Come wearing your pajamas and listen as Santa reads ‘Twas the Night Before Christmas. Bask in the Christmas spirit and enjoy the comfort of our Edwardian-era cars. Arrive early to receive complimentary hot cocoa and Christmas cookies before you board. For more info visit colebrookdalerailroad.com.
Colebrookdale Railroad | Boyertown
RETURN TO THE OLD TAVERN FALL/WINTER DAILY SPECIALS WEDNESDAY BUY ONE ENTRÉE, GET ONE ENTRÉE 1/2 PRICE AYCE SHRIMP & FRIES $19.99 THURSDAY AYCE WINGS & FRIES $16.99 FRIDAY HAPPY HOUR 3 – 6 PM HALF-PRICE APPETIZERS FRIDAY & SATURDAY WEEKEND ENTRÉE SPECIALS LIVE MUSIC BOTH NIGHTS SUNDAY BRUNCH MENU 10 AM – 1 PM AYCE WINGS, SHRIMP & FRIES $21.99
WED–FRI 3 PM • SAT 11AM SUN 10AM • CLOSED MON & TUES 710 OLD FRITZTOWN RD., SINKING SPRING BEVERLYHILLSTAVERN.BIZ // 610.777.4516
Dec. 31
GIVIN G IS A BLESSIN G
Moon Over New York Gala
Ring in 2026 with a lavish holiday buffet dinner, sip handcrafted cocktails and dance the night away to the sounds of Bunchafunk until 12:30am. $120/person. For tickets and more info call 484.577.8633.
What a wonderful gift to fill a family plate (and cabinets and fridge) this Holiday Season. $25 allows us to fill a shopping cart full of food; healthy, nutritious food. Your generosity will help warm a home and bring joy to our neighbors in need. Donate securely online at friendinc.org. Wishing you and yours a warm and healthy holiday.
7pm | DoubleTree by Hilton | Reading Want your event listed in This Month? Submit your event at BerksCountyLiving.com
Friend, Inc. Community Services is a social support organization that, for over 50 years, works tirelessly to reduce food insecurity and other household economic pressures on families throughout rural northeast Berks County.
Learn more: 610.683.7790 friendinc.org
A PRO U D CO M M U N I T Y PA R T N ER O F
JOIN US FOR THE HOLIDAYS + SPREAD THE LOVE WITH OUR GIFT CARDS
Christmas House Tour Friday, December 12
Guided Moonlight Tour/Cocktail Party $75.00 per person
6:00 P.M. � 10:00 P.M.
Sunday, December 14 Self�guided Tour Tour only: $30.00
11:00 A.M. � 5:00 P.M.
*O Optional Brunch 10:30 AM -1:00 PM
Tour & Brunch Combo: $70.00
Visit our website/events For more info & Ticket Sale
centreparkhistoricdistrict.org
945 HILL AVE., SUITE 650 WYOMISSING 610.743.5829 • BYOB KINYA.US/WYOMISSING
Connect WITH US
BERKSCOUNTYLIVING.COM
berkscountyliving.com | DECEMBER 2025
21
Because YOU Deserve More than Ordinary
Lutheran Home at Topton
You’ve built a life full of stories, passions and goals—and you’re not done yet. Life According to You™ means EverTrue Lutheran Home at Topton isn’t just where you live — it’s where you thrive. From exploring our scenic 400-acre campus to enjoying nearby cultural events, your lifestyle is uniquely yours.
SCHEDULE YOUR TOUR TODAY EverTrueLutheranHomeTopton.org | 610.915.2704 EverTrue Lutheran Home at Topton is a nonprofit, faith-based Life Plan Community serving older adults. Independent Living | Personal Care | Memory Support | Long Term Care | Short Term Rehab
love your smile Dr. Andrea Smith is one of only 350 Maxillofacial Prosthodontists worldwide. More than 100 area dentists, oral surgeons and other dental specialists trust her to handle their patients’ complex or cosmetic dental needs, from a single perfect tooth to state-of-the-art full mouth reconstruction. Specializing in the restoration and replacement of teeth, including: » dental implant restorations » crowns » bridges » dentures » cosmetic dentistry » full-mouth implant prosthetics such as Teeth-in-One-Day or All-on-4
Dr. Smith sees patients with a wide variety of dental concerns, such as: » broken or missing teeth » uncomfortable dentures » extensive tooth wear » dissatisfaction with the appearance of their smile
Dr. AnDreA Smith 955 BerkShire BlvD., Suite 104, WyomiSSing 484.577.3530 • berkspros.com
22
DECEMBER 2025 | berkscountyliving.com
The New Store
SHOP HANDMADE • SHOP LOCAL
at GoggleWorks
THE PERFECT HOLIDAY GIFT, MADE WITH
LOVE.
Open 9am-9pm, Every Day
GOGGLEWORKS NOW HAS ART SUPPLIES! Scan Here to Learn More
201 Washington St, Reading, PA 19601
2025-GW-BCL-December.indd 1
or visit goggleworks.org
11/3/2025 11:44:11 AM
THE LOOK
Turn heads at every holiday event. This breathtaking gold gown has a fitted bodice and a full pleated skirt that’s made for spinning and twirling on the dance floor. Accessorize with your favorite gold jewelry and shine from head to toe.
BY HEATHER BAVER PHOTOS COURTESY RELATED BERKS BUSINESSES
Blythe Dress | $178 Bella Jules Boutique
Get ready to celebrate. The end of the year is packed with opportunities to get together with friends and family for food, activities and hanging out. Enhance the fun with outfits that complement the festive season. Whether your event is casual, formal or in-between, we’ve got options for your entire family.
WHIMSICAL KNIT
SEASONAL STATEMENT Express happy vibes. A deep burgundy hue makes this sweater perfect holiday attire, and the scripty “merry” on the front encapsulates the spirit of the season. Dress this sweater up or down by pairing with jeans or skirts for all kinds of stylish options. Z Supply Merry Sweater $78 | Bella Jules Boutique
Go for a denim style that’s party ready. A sparkling silver finish gives these jeans festive flair. Pair them with a fluffy sweater for an effortlessly chic look. Experiment with different tops for celebratory style all through the holidays and into the new year. Steve Madden Zo Silver Jeans | $119 Be Mine Boutique
Outfit the littlest members of the family with this cheerful reindeer sweater. Bold, cute designs like these are holiday essentials and ideal for photo ops. Capture the special moments of the season while your child unwraps gifts and plays by the tree. Carter’s Toddler Christmas Reindeer Fair Isle Sweater $38 | Kohl’s
SHINING EXAMPLE Get your kids excited about dressing up. A sprinkling of faux pearls on this navy dress looks like snowflakes falling at night. Pair this comfy sweater dress with patterned knit tights, add some shiny Mary Janes and she’ll have a dazzling time. Boboli Dress | NWT | size 4 | $35.99 From The Heart Consignment Shop
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DECEMBER 2025 | berkscountyliving.com
RUFFLED AND FABULOUS Sashay into the party and get all the compliments. This dress has everything: a fun sequin top and a ruffled mesh skirt, all in a gorgeous deep green shade. Turn up your favorite holiday tunes and watch her show off her best moves. Top off your party ensemble with this fuzzy faux fur coat. The plush cuffs and notched collar add warmth and pizzazz to this classic style, keeping you cozy and sophisticated. Wear it throughout the cold months to maintain the festive feelings.
Speechless Girls Dress | sizes 7-16 retail: $54 sale: $27 Boscov’s
Sources Andrea Folino Boutique & Sangria Bar 945 Hill Avenue, Ste. 100 Wyomissing | 484.267.2939 andreafolino.com Bella Jules Boutique 700 Penn Avenue West Reading | 610.208.0600 bellajulesboutique.com Be Mine Boutique 637 Penn Avenue, West Reading 610.816.5635 | shopbemine.com Boscov’s Locations in Exeter, Muhlenberg, Wyomissing | 610.779.2000 boscovs.com From The Heart Consignment Shop 4600 Penn Avenue Sinking Spring | 484.509.4441 fromtheheartconsignment.com Kohl’s 2700 Paper Mill Rd., Wyomissing 610.371.0237 | kohls.com
Steve Madden Faux Fur Coat | $169 Be Mine Boutique
Target Locations in Exeter, Muhlenberg, Wyomissing | target.com
SANTA’S HELPER Let your best friend join in on the holiday fun. With its pompom collar and green-and-white striped pattern, this sweet dog sweater is elf-inspired. Made to fit all breeds, your pet will be the hit of the neighborhood during parties and daily walks. Chilly Dog Christmas Elf Dog Sweater $38.49 | Target
JUMP FOR JOY Jumpsuits exude elegance and make getting ready a snap. This delightful black version features a twinkling sequin top and flowy legs for a stunning silhouette. Pair it with some strappy shoes, grab your bag and you’re all set for a memorable evening. Adrianna Papell Jumpsuit size 4P/Small | $49.99 From The Heart Consignment Shop
DAPPER TEXTURE Choose a style you can rock all winter. This cherry-red sweater has an eye-catching herringbone pattern and tailored fit. Pair with a button-down shirt and dark pants for a polished look that looks great for every occasion, from office parties to family celebrations. Chaps Button Down Shirt | $24.99 | Tricots ST Raphael Crew Sweater $29.99 | Chaps Stretch Pant | $29.99 | Boscov’s
Put a new spin on winter layering. This striking dress pairs a sweetheart neckline and ruched bodice with four cascading tiers that billow and sway as you move. The romantic floral print is a perfect reminder that warmer days will come again. Floral-tiered Strapless Maxi Dress | $122 Andrea Folino Boutique & Sangria Bar
Botox with a Purpose at At Keystone Wellness, our mission is to provide safe, effective and compassionate care through effective therapeutic Botox treatments that improve quality of life.
We specialize in treating medical conditions with a focus on precision, integrity and personalized service. Schedule a consultation today to learn how Botox can help with:
• Cervical Dystonia • Chronic Migraines • TMJ • Neck & Shoulder Pain • Muscle Spasms • Hyperhidrosis
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GIFT CARDS AVAILABLE! CALL FOR DETAILS
2607 Keiser Blvd. Suite 200, Wyomissing | 484.509.0840 | kos-spine.com
There’s No Place Like KOR for the Holidays! ngs! Season’s Greeti –Team KOR
HOLIDAY GIFT CARD SPECIAL BUY A $100 GIFT CARD, GET $120 IN TREATMENTS BUY A $250 GIFT CARD, GET $300 IN TREATMENTS BUY A $500 GIFT CARD, GET $600 IN TREATMENTS LIMITED TIME OFFER. SEE CLINIC FOR DETAILS.
Facial Restoration • Advanced Skin Treatments • IV Therapy • PRP Hair Restoration • Hormone Optimization • Metabolic Reset 200 SPRING RIDGE DR. STE. 102, WYOMISSING
26
DECEMBER 2025 | berkscountyliving.com
484.666.5586
484.709.2022
RESTOREWITHKOR.COM
FIVE THINGS
DELICI US D NUTS NU
TS
BY HEATHER BAVER
Y DUC
K DO
Available in an astounding number of flavors, donuts are a tasty, portable treat.
P H OTO C O U R T E S
While filled donuts have been around longer than the classic ring, people have been delighting in versions of fried dough since ancient times. Support local bakers in the most delicious way possible and taste-test these five selections.
Sink your teeth into sweet, creamy custard. These yeast donuts are individually hand cut and filled with Bavarian cream. Topped with rich chocolate icing, it’s easy to see why Boston cream donuts are Wyomissing Restaurant’s most popular variety. Pick up some to share for a delectable start to the workday.
Tantalizing Toppings.
Experiment with all kinds of tasty combi nations. Start with one of Duck Donuts’ freshmade vanilla cake donuts, then choose a coating, topping and drizzle. Or go with one of their delicious suggestions like the boardwalk, featuring vanilla glaze and drizzle, packed with Oreo cookie pieces and dusted with powdered sugar.
PHOTO COURTESY BECCA’S GOURMET COFFEE & DONUTS
Seasonal Sensation.
Take a break from the holiday bustle and sit back with an apple cider donut and a cup of fresh apple cider. Savor crunchy sugar, spicy cinnamon and the sweet, tangy blend of Weaver’s apple harvest. Available by the dozen, you’ll have plenty to enjoy now and for breakfast tomorrow.
PHOTO COURTESY WYOMISSING RESTAURANT & BAKERY
Boardwalk Donut | $2.65 each, ½ dozen: $13, dozen: $21 | Duck Donuts | 86 Commerce Dr., Wyomissing | 484.709.2261 | duckdonuts.com
Boston Cream Donuts | $1.25 each, ½ dozen: $7, dozen: $14 | Wyomissing Restaurant & Bakery 1245 Penn Avenue, Wyomissing | 610.373.3353 wyomissingrestaurantandbakery.com
PHOTO COURTESY WEAVER’S ORCHARD & FARM MARKET
Fabulous Filling.
Apple Cider Donuts | $11.99/dozen | Weaver’s Orchard & Farm Market | 40 Fruit Ln., Morgantown 610.856.7300 | weaversorchard.com
Pull-apart Fun.
Satisfy your pie and donut cravings in one delightful bite. Made from scratch, these apple fritters include a blend of dough, cinnamon and apple pie filling. Hand rolled then fried and coated in a sweet glaze, they’re the perfect treat to enjoy with a hot cup of Becca’s gourmet coffee.
Apple Fritters | $1.75 each, ½ dozen: $8.95, dozen: $16.95 | Becca’s Gourmet Coffee & Donuts at PA Dutch Farmers Market of Wyomissing | 845B Woodland Rd., Wyomissing 610.374.1916 | beccasgourmetcoffeendonuts
PHOTO COURTESY WINNIE MOCHI
Pie-inspired.
Treat yourself to dazzling texture and flavor. Rice flour and tapioca starch give mochi donuts a taste similar to funnel cake. The festive floral shapes are made from individual balls, making them easy to split with a friend. Have fun tasting all the different varieties like churro, chocolate and matcha.
Mochi Donuts | $2.95 each, ½ dozen: $15, dozen: $28 Winnie Mochi | 400 Penn Avenue, West Reading 610.898.4812 | winniemochi.com
WIN IT! Score a $25 gift card to Wyomissing Restaurant & Bakery, Becca’s Gourmet Coffee & Donuts, a free dozen donuts from Duck Donuts or a half-dozen donuts from Winnie Mochi by entering online at berkscountyliving.com this month. berkscountyliving.com | DECEMBER 2025
27
SPECIAL ADVERTISING SEC TION
PHOTO COURTESY TIMBER LANE HANDCRAFTED MERCANTILE AND READING TABLE & CO.
Riverview Gardens and Gifts, a family-owned business since 1973, is the ultimate destination for holiday decorating and unique gifts for adults and children. Shop houseplants, Jellycat stuffies, children’s toys, jewelry, beauty products, purses, books, puzzles and more! Our Christmas showroom has everything you need to make the season festive. Open Monday to Saturday, 9am–5pm, and Sundays, 10am–5pm.
With a multitude of gift options for everyone on your holiday shopping list this season, there’s no reason to skip shopping local. Be it home and garden goodies, auto options, clothing and personal care items or even sweet treats, sparkling jewels or a good read, there’s a place in Berks for that. Meet a few on the pages that follow.
Timber Lane Handcrafted Mercantile and Reading Table & Co. 1540 Alleghenyville Rd., Mohnton 484.317.8001 | timberlanehandcrafted.com Explore Berks County’s newest home decor and custom woodworking store. Timber Lane Handcrafted Mercantile and Reading Table & Co. is a family -owned and -operated business. Made from Pennsylvania sustainable hardwoods, our handmade cutting boards, utensils and bespoke furniture are made with dedication and care, lasting for generations. Discover everything our Mercantile has to offer, from handmade pieces to home decor and gourmet foods.
PHOTO COURTESY MUDDY CREEK SOAP COMPANY
Sweet Ride Ice Cream 542 Penn Avenue, West Reading 484.987.7338 | sweetrideicecream.com PHOTO COURTESY SWEET RIDE ICE CREAM
Sweet Ride Ice Cream is an ice cream parlor and soda fountain located in West Reading. We offer 50+ flavors of our homemade on premises super premium ice cream, sundaes, milkshakes, homemade waffle sundaes, handcrafted sodas and floats from our 1946 soda fountain. We also have a mobile ice cream parlor, truck and vintage ice cream bike to serve at your next special event.
Muddy Creek Soap Company
The Rustic Bunch
608 Penn Avenue, West Reading 610.816.7474 muddycreeksoapcompany.com
Our flowers are locally grown right here in Berks County. Because of that we only have delivery available through our growing season, which runs April through November. But our seasonal Floral Share Certificates make a great gift! Treat that special someone to weekly, biweekly or monthly flowers for our upcoming season. You can’t go wrong with a gift of fresh flowers that supports locally grown and a small family business!
Visit Muddy Creek Soap Company in West Reading for 20 percent off your Black Friday, Small Business Saturday and Cyber Monday purchases. Pick up natural and organic handmade soaps and bath products crafted with love. Visit muddycreeksoapcompany.com for a full product list. Thanksgiving week hours: Tues & Wed: 10am–5pm, Fri & Sat: 10am–7pm, Sun: 10am–4pm. Cyber Monday: 10am–5pm.
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PHOTO COURTESY THE RUSTIC BUNCH
By Appointment Only 610.413.2737 | rusticbunch.com
PHOTO COURTESY RIVERVIEW GARDENS & GIFTS
3049 Pricetown Rd., Temple 610.929.5049 | gardensandgifts.com
GOOD STUDIO / ADOBE STOCK
SHOP LOCAL SPOTLIGHTS
Riverview Gardens and Gifts
SPECIAL ADVERTISING SEC TION
271 W. Main St., Kutztown 484.648.2712 fireflybookstore.com
Gipprich Jewelers
Empire Home Center
103 W. Lancaster Avenue, Shillington 610.777.7034 | gipprich.com
2741 Bernville Rd., Leesport, on Rt. 183 641 Penn Avenue, West Reading 610.926.0500 | empirehomecenter.com
PHOTO COURTESY GIPPRICH JEWELERS
Ready to start your home improvement projects? Whether you are looking to update or remodel your kitchen, bath, floors, windows, doors or just to add to your home décor, Empire Home Center is here to help. Our goal at Empire is to provide you with the highest quality product at the best price for you to truly maximize your enjoyment and value of your home.
PHOTO COURTESY FIREFLY BOOKSTORE
Open for 13 years in downtown Kutztown, Firefly Bookstore is an independently owned new and used bookstore. The business boasts 3,000 square feet of space for 70,000+ items, including a broad, curated selection of fiction and non-fiction titles. You’ll also find board games, card games and puzzles. Firefly holds free events regularly, including author meetings, book clubs, open mic and game sessions.
Looking for a treasured piece of jewelry or simply want to treat yourself? Head to Gipprich Jewelers in Shillington for a sales and service team that cares. The family-owned business has been celebrating holidays and milestones since 1945, selling jewelry and diamonds, including unique estate pieces, marking a quality business standing the test of time. Find product updates daily on their Facebook page @GipprichJewelers.
Celebrating 80 years and 3 generations in business!
Fleet Feet West Reading 705 Penn Avenue, West Reading 610.320.9097 | fleetfeetwestreading.com PHOTO COURTESY SCOTT’S WASH & LUBE
PHOTO COURTESY FLEET FEET WEST READING
Fleet Feet West Reading is one of America’s Best Running Stores. Plan a visit to our shop on Penn Avenue and discover why! Find gifts runners, walkers and comfort-seekers will love. From free 3D foot scans to footwear that feels amazing, we’ll help you check off every name on your list — yours included. Come see us; your feet will thank you!
Scott’s Wash & Lube
The Salt Lounge 4 Wellington Blvd., Ste. 110, Wyomissing 610.646.1733 | thesaltlounge.net
5700 Perkiomen Avenue, Reading 610.582.8122 | scottsofpa.com
PHOTO COURTESY THE SALT LOUNGE
Give the gift of relaxation this holiday season! The Salt Lounge offers services including massage, reflexology and salt therapy. Give salt therapy a try to feel calmer and to breathe easier. Check out our boutique for salty soaps, scrubs and shower tabs for the perfect at-home spa day. Gift cards and salt therapy packages make the perfect gift for anyone in need of a self-care day.
Discover unbeatable value with our state-of-theart car wash tunnel and monthly memberships! Choose from four premium wash packages. Enjoy a 15-minute oil change, which includes a FREE car wash. Quick propane refills available. Make every wash count with our cost-effective memberships that include additional discounts! berkscountyliving.com | DECEMBER 2025
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SHOP LOCAL SPOTLIGHTS
Firefly Bookstore
The Purple Door Studio Artist Jane Runyeon
PHOTO COLLAGE COURTESY JANE RUNYEON
Behind 1230 Garfield Avenue, Wyomissing 610.914.4165 | janerunyeonworksofart.com
PHOTO COURTESY RAPHAEL B. STUDIO
Call me to stop by the studio this holiday season for colorful, one-of-a-kind gifts, including paintings, limited-edition prints, scarves and button bracelets, by contemporary artist Jane Runyeon. Drop by for a coffee and Open Studio on Black Friday Weekend: Fri., Nov. 28 and Sat., Nov. 29 from 11am–4pm.
Adam n’ Eve Boutique
Raphael B. Studio
309 W. Main St., Kutztown | 610.683.8117
4310 Perkiomen Avenue, Reading 610.779.6611 | raphaelbstudio.com PHOTO COURTESY ADAM N’ EVE BOUTIQUE
Raphael B. Studio, located at Boscov’s East Mall, has been your neighborhood jeweler for more than 20 years. We handle all your jewelry needs, including on-site repair, custom engagement rings and jewelry, unique artisan jewelry, estate jewelry, watch batteries and band shortening. Come see us!
From the moment you enter the store, you’ll realize you’re somewhere special. Discover a wonderful blend of women’s clothing, an eclectic mix of beautiful scarves, vegan handbags, art-inspired socks, European soaps, French hair accessories, handcrafted sterling silver jewelry and more! Everything is hand selected and uniquely different, which makes shopping at Adam n’ Eve Boutique one of life’s little pleasures since 1972. Come In and Be Tempted…
Pat Garrett Sheepskins Rt. 183 & I-78, Strausstown 610.488.1782 | sickafus.com PHOTO COURTESY PAT GARRETT SHEEPSKIN OUTLET
PHOTO COURTESY VAN SCOY JEWELERS
The Pat Garrett Sheepskin Outlet offers genuine men’s and ladies’ sheepskin coats at factory outlet prices. We’re just 20 minutes north of Reading at the intersection of Route 183 & I-78. Visit seven days a week until 6pm. You’ll also find sheepskin slippers, vests, gloves, hats, car and truck seat covers, leather belts, motorcycle jackets, vests and chaps. Great Christmas gift ideas!
Berks County Living
Van Scoy Jewelers
GoggleWorks Center for the Arts 201 Washington St., Ste. 525, Reading 1.800.896.1392 | berkscountyliving.com Give the gift of local! ’Tis the season for giving — and saving! Buy or renew your Berks County Living subscription for just $15 and gift additional subscriptions for only $5 each. For your gifts to others, we’ll send the recipient a complimentary gift card in your name so they know just who to thank! Offer valid through the holiday season. To order, call 1.800.896.1392 (mention code: 7Holiday25) or visit berkscountyliving.com/subscribe-now. 30
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1121 Penn Avenue, Wyomissing 610.374.9330 | vanscoy.com
VAASEENAA / ADOBE STOCK
SHOP LOCAL SPOTLIGHTS
SPECIAL ADVERTISING SEC TION
Van Scoy Jewelers is a locally owned and operated Berks County small business. Celebrating 48 years in business and three years at their new location in Wyomissing, they offer a wide variety of products and specialize in fine diamond jewelry and engagement rings. They have an on-site repair department and offer custom designs. You can also shop online at vanscoy.com.
GOOD STUDIO / ADOBE STOCK
SPECIAL ADVERTISING SEC TION
For Extraordinary Gif ts
From enjoying seasonal treats to even visiting the orthodontist with a spirited hat afterward, there are lots of ways to choose to be jolly and add joy to your holiday season. Be sure to spread Christmas cheer and support local business this year!
& H O L I DAY D E CO R 3049 Pricetown Rd. (Rt.12), Temple, PA • (610) 929-5049
gardensandgifts.com
PHOTO COURTESY ROG ORTHODONTICS
ROG Orthodontics Wyomissing, Pottstown & Douglassville 610.374.4097 | fantasticsmiles.com ROG Orthodontics is proud to be the leading orthodontic practice in Berks County for more than 60 years. Drs. Natalie Parisi, Dennis Mauro and Ashima Sharma are committed to excellence while providing unsurpassed, personalized care creating FANTASTIC SMILES. We are honored that patients choose ROG based on the reputation of our experienced orthodontic specialists, satisfied patient experiences and proven fantastic results. Embrace the holidays with a Fantastic Smile! berkscountyliving.com | DECEMBER 2025
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THANK YOU, BERKS COUNTY!
We are truly honored that Morning Fuel has been voted the Best Brunch Spot in the 2025 Best of Berks awards. For us, this is a reflection of the love, loyalty and encouragement we receive every single day from our incredible community. From the very beginning, our dream has been to create more than just a place to eat. We wanted to build a space where people could gather, connect and feel at home over a warm cup of coffee and a meal made with care. Every smile, every conversation and every visit has fueled that dream and made Morning Fuel what it is today. This honor belongs to all of you: our guests, our team and our neighbors who have supported us, believed in us and shared in this journey. We are deeply grateful for your trust and for you allowing us to be part of your mornings, your celebrations and your everyday moments. Thank you, Berks County, for lifting us up and for reminding us why we do what we do. We look forward to continuing to serve you with the same passion, warmth and dedication that brought us here. With gratitude,
ily
m a F l e u F g n i n r o M e Th 3024A Penn Ave., West Lawn | 610.750.7247 | morningfuelpa.com 32
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Reasons to love Berks County!
Best of
BURGER
AT LOUIE’S KITCHEN & BAR
winners revealed
PHOTOS BY HEIDI REUTER
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Best
Burger
Louie’s
Visit Crave Café for satisfying lunch options crafted from quality ingredients like homemade soups, flatbreads and paninis (the turkey bacon avocado is a crowd favorite) — plus delicious fresh-baked goods, from brownies to caramel chocolate chip bars. The business has been under new ownership for a year now with Nicole Rodriguez at the helm, but not much has changed in its last 11 years otherwise. Local Valerio Roasters coffee is popular, and monthly drink specials are offered. Food specials change each week, with popular items like chicken salad often being featured. People come to hangout and eat, making it “feel like the show Cheers, but cozy” say the many regulars that come here. The closeness of the Crave Café team creates a welcoming, loving atmosphere that embraces even first-time visitors.
Kitchen & Bar
Best
Place for healthy eats
What makes a great burger? “Balance and the right percentage of components,” says James Lorah, owner of Louie’s Kitchen & Bar. Long before smash burgers were trendy, Louie’s was perfecting them. The menu features 13 signature creations, all customizable with a bird burger chicken patty offered at no extra cost. Fan favorites include the Classic and the award-winning Caramel Burger. Each is crafted with intention: toasted buns, gooey cheese, perfected toppings and standout meat. Unique ingredients like whiskey black pepper bacon, brown sugarcaramelized bacon, smashed avocado, caramelized onions, Mac sauce and pickled jalapeños elevate every bite. Louie’s isn’t just serving burgers — they’re setting the standard. Whether you’re local or just passing through Berks County, this is a burger stop worth making. — Hannah Keeney 12 VILLAGE CENTER DR. READING | 610.775.6575 LOUIESKITCHENANDBAR.COM
— Elliana Euclide
Clean Eatz What started as an entrepreneurial dream turned into Clean Eatz, a thriving healthy dining spot in Wyomissing. Its owners pride themselves on creating meals that support balanced lifestyles and make healthy living easier for customers. The company as a whole is committed to guiding people to better lifestyle choices. Loyal clients to the Wyomissing location have been with Clean Eatz since Day 1, sticking to weekly meal plans and supporting their mission. Says owner Dani Zeamer, “We’re like your one-stop shop for creating healthy lifestyles.” Best sellers include the Cuban flatbread in the café and anything mac and cheese from their meal prep menu. Clean Eatz also provides customized meals, accommodating special diets and preferences. With a no-salt kitchen and fresh, nutrient-focused options, Clean Eatz has quickly become a community favorite in Berks. — Brandon Strausser 1665 STATE HILL RD., BERKSHIRE MALL, WYOMISSING 610.816.5085 | CLEANEATZ.COM
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4600 PENN AVENUE SINKING SPRING 484.509.5955 CRAVECAFE.NET
Best Lunch Spot Crave CafÉ
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Best Sweet Treat Shop
Sweet Ride Ice Cream
With 50 flavors on the menu, Sweet Ride Ice Cream serves up everything ice cream, from alltime-favorite staples to delicious seasonal flavors such as Pumpkin Cheesecake and Cinnamon Apple Pie. Co-owner Angie Farrell says, “We try to have something for everyone,” noting vegan, non-dairy, gluten-free and no-sugar-added options. Customer favorites include Banana Peanut Butter Chip and Cookie Monster, just to name a couple of the many. The fun doesn’t end at the Penn Avenue shop. Sweet Ride also travels with its “sweet rides”: an ice cream bike, truck and mobile parlor keeping the team busy 7 days a week. From starting with one bike, Sweet Ride has transformed into a Berks County staple that plans to celebrate the 10th anniversary of their Penn Avenue shop in 2026. — Owen Menszak
Best Bar food The New Bertie's Inn
PHO
TO BY JI M GAVEN US
542 PENN AVENUE, WEST READING 484.987.7338 | SWEETRIDEICECREAM.COM
Best Local Winery
Clover Hill
Vineyards & Winery You don’t just achieve “average status” with 40 years of experience under your belt. That certainly rings true for now seven-time Best of Berks winner Clover Hill Vineyards & Winery. Fifteen different varieties of grapes grown under the Berks County sun are utilized to produce 25 exceptional wines for customers to enjoy while taking in the beautiful vineyard view. A flight of four wines is offered in the tasting room to experience a range of flavors. In addition to wine, Clover Hill also hosts fun events throughout the year, ranging from live music and cornhole competitions to classes on how to make mozzarella. All of this and more creates an inviting atmosphere. As John Skrip III, head winemaker at Clover Hill, says, “Relax, unwind and make a day of it,” highlighting the friendly and leisurely atmosphere of the winery. — Jacob Boyle MULTIPLE LOCATIONS IN BERKS & BREINIGSVILLE | CLOVERHILLWINERY.COM
At The New Bertie’s Inn, the motto “Have fun. Be kind.” sets the tone for a welcoming experience at this historic bar where tradition meets modern twists. A full menu, available at the bar, features some recipes dating back 200 years alongside new favorites. The build-your-own burger is a customer favorite, offering endless combinations of toppings and sauces, while the Salmon Caesar wrap delivers a flavorful twist on the classic chicken version. Since reopening under new ownership in 2022, Bertie’s menu has become very inclusive, with options like turkey burgers, a gluten-free Beyond burger and chicken patties. There is something for everyone to enjoy. Many menu items are made in house from scratch, including the kielbasa, which keeps customers coming back. The New Bertie’s Inn is a place where customers feel right at home while satisfying all their cravings. — Des Doucette 610.779.5797 | 160 OLD FRIEDENSBURG RD., READING | BERTIESINNEXETER.COM
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Family Restaurant & Bakery
New business Midtown
Sip-Savor-Social With its opening in June of 2025, Midtown Sip-Savor-Social earns this year’s inaugural award for best new business. This chic, fullservice restaurant invites diners to sip handcrafted cocktails, savor delicious lunch and dinner dishes and socialize with good company. Located in the heart of West Reading, this family-owned business is operated by the same team behind award-winning Nonno Alby’s. Their emphasis on hospitality creates an inviting, familial quality that shines through every moment of service. As Midtown grows, guests can look forward to the excitement ahead as co-owner Tina Grande-Cirandine announces, “We own the building next door, so we’re working on a second phase for our business. We’re currently in the process of redoing that space in the hopes that it will be ready in the next couple of months.” — Skyler Jordan 600 PENN AVENUE WEST READING | 610.200.5107 MIDTOWNWESTREADING.COM
Besitendly
Family-Fr nt Restaura
Simple, clean flavors is what the Wyomissing Family Restaurant & Bakery holds true to heart. From fluffy, cloudlike pancakes to fried chicken crisped to perfection, one can understand why Berks residents voted it Best Family-Friendly Restaurant. Every morning, the staff works hard to make fresh, highquality food. Children delight in the lovingly decorated cupcakes and delicious donuts that are made in house daily. With its welcoming atmosphere, it’s the perfect spot for everyone — especially large groups ready to indulge in hearty food. The establishment has stood the test of time and is a recipient of many awards, this being just one. Family events can be booked, too, from baby showers to your loved one’s 100th birthday, so make sure to give this winning restaurant a try and bring your crew. — Marlena Gnap 1245 PENN AVENUE, WYOMISSING | 610.373.3353 WYOMISSINGRESTAURANTANDBAKERY.COM
For a fourth consecutive year, Firehouse Coffee secures the honor of best coffee spot in Berks County. Owner Mike Adams attributes the business’s success to its knowledgeable and welcoming staff, an intensive in-house roasting process and a branding that honors the hard work and dedication of first responders. With plenty of unique blends, Firehouse Coffee has cemented itself as a staple on the gourmet coffee scene. Coffee fanatics can enjoy a variety of popular offerings, including Aged Whiskey and Vanilla, Bourbon Pecan and other creative roasts that are flavored with oil instead of sugar-based flavorings. Firehouse Coffee beans are available for purchase in various local retail locations such as The Kwik Shoppe Drive-in, Shoemakersville, and LaFaver Family Farm, Hamburg, and fans should keep a lookout as Adams says, “We are in the process of expansion, looking at strategic locations around Berks County right now.” — Skyler Jordan
Best
Coffee Spot
firehouse coffee
15877 KUTZTOWN RD., MAXATAWNY | 610.944.1313 | FIREHOUSECOFFEE.COM PHOTO BY ASPI13/ADOBE STOCK
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Best Fine Dining
A Light in the Attic Modern Speakeasy
Located above The Barley Mow Craft Beer House, guests are treated to a wide variety of skillfully crafted food and drink that’s akin to art at A Light in the Attic Modern Speakeasy. Attention to detail is everything here and shines through unique cocktails such as the Pho Old Fashioned and fusion cuisine like seasonal gnocchi from a family recipe. Sourcing from local farmers and crafting cocktail infusions made in house ensure a unique experience you can’t find anywhere else. The venue itself is its own character, exuding the exclusive feel of a speakeasy with a modern, elevated twist. So, if you’d like to experience something, in the words of co-owner Claire Starr, “unexpected, an escape from the normal town vibe,” A Light in the Attic offers just that. — Jacob Boyle 719 PENN AVENUE, 2ND FL., WEST READING 610.396.2842 | ALIGHTINTHEATTICWR.COM
Best
PHOTO COURTESY GOURMAND
outdoor dining Best Food Truck
gourmand
Kristen and Mitch Kriebel built Gourmand Food Truck on the belief that food brings people together. What began as something small quickly turned into a full-time operation serving weddings, corporate gatherings and private events all across Berks County. As Kristen explains, “The best part is getting to meet so many different people and be part of their big moments.” This connection that they share with the community has shaped the way they run the food truck, making it much more than just a meal; it’s an experience. Their menu is constantly changing, which keeps their customers excited for what’s next. However, it has been their specialty fries, especially their fan-favorite truffle goat cheese fries, that have remained a favorite. With Kristen and Mitch’s creativity, passion and love for their community, a visit to the Gourmand Food Truck has become a fantastic culinary experience. — Todd McGann
Mimmo’s Restaurant “You’re not in Reading anymore,” says Mike Brutto, owner of Mimmo’s Restaurant. Since opening in 1997 as a humble pizza shop, Mimmo’s has grown into a beloved local gem known for its warm, family-style atmosphere and true, authentic Italian cuisine. The restaurant features four distinct dining areas, each with its own unique charm. Most memorable is the outdoor dining space, surrounded by lush gardenscapes, lantern light posts and a tranquil, cascading waterfall. This picturesque setting transports customers straight into the heart of little Italy. Whether you are dining under the stars or enjoying a meal with an afternoon breeze, the ambiance is absolutely unforgettable, as evidenced by Mimmo’s win in this category. Over the last three decades, Mike and his mother, Lucy, have cultivated not only a restaurant but a second home where every guest is treated like family and every meal is made with love. — Des Doucette 610.373.2800 | 290 MORGANTOWN RD., READING | MIMMOS.ORG
945 BERKSHIRE BLVD., WYOMISSING | 610.743.3233 | GOURMANDPA.COM berkscountyliving.com | DECEMBER 2025
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Best
place to meet for drinks The Bar Cart
Best
brunch spot Morning Fuel
At The Bar Cart in West Reading, no two visits are the same. Owners Kacie and Chris Griffith rotate their cocktail menu weekly to ensure that their guests are always treated to something new. Their menu doesn’t stop at delicious cocktails as the mocktail program is taken just as seriously as the cocktail program. “We want someone who has chosen not to drink to have the same kind of experience when they are here,” Kacie explains. The Bar Cart is also a bottle shop where guests can purchase cocktail kits of their favorite drinks to bring home. When asked about the atmosphere, Kacie says, “It feels like you are walking into your best friend’s basement bar; we always wanted it to feel homey.” With a welcoming team behind the bar, local art on the walls and games to play, The Bar Cart is a place to connect with friends and loved ones. — Kerri McDonnell 713 PENN AVENUE WEST READING THEBARCARTPA.COM
First-time Best of Berks winner Morning Fuel brings international flavors and a friendly atmosphere to West Lawn. Open from 7am to 2:30pm, Monday through Saturday, and 8am to 3pm on Sunday, the popular establishment serves brunch all week long. One noteworthy drink on the extensive menu is the Guatemalan coffee, imported directly from Guatemala. “We want to bring something different to the area,” says owner Dary Garcia. “We mix American food with Latin flavors.” Garcia shares that his personal favorite dish is the steak tacos, admitting he eats them almost every day. Other customer favorites include the tostones trio and the breakfast burritos. Morning Fuel not only serves a variety of flavorful dishes, but the staff also cares deeply about its customers, which keeps them coming back. — Stella Remaley 3024A PENN AVENUE, WEST LAWN | 610.750.7247 MORNINGFUELPA.COM
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Best Place to Enjoy the Arts
Reading Public Museum Reading Public Museum has reclaimed its Best of Berks nod for its arts programming, and for good reason. Whether it’s looking to enjoy a new photography exhibition or educating children through a toy-themed program, The Museum truly has something for everyone. “A lot of the same families come back. It’s a great place to bring kids to have a fun time,” says Geoffrey K. Fleming, executive director and CEO. “It’s a very family-oriented place.” With thoughtful selection, the Reading Public Museum ensures that, regardless of who attends, they will find something they enjoy. The Museum’s upcoming exhibits will include: Dressing the Abbey (which features costumes of Downton Abbey) and, for younger audiences, The Pigeon Comes to Reading: The Mo Willems Exhibit, featuring art and activities based upon the beloved book series. — Linnea Devenney 500 MUSEUM RD. READING 610.371.5850 READINGPUBLICMUSEUM.ORG
Best Women's Boutique
Be Mine Boutique
Opened in 2019 by Reading local Alison Pakradooni, Be Mine Boutique in West Reading offers a stylish selection of trendy clothing by brands like Free People and Steve Madden as well as goods made by local creators, including small batch candles by Hamilton Wax Co. With a focus on offering a positive, unique shopping experience and something for every occasion, Pakradooni recalls when deciding to open Be Mine, “I remembered how much I love to make people feel good, whether that’s finding an outfit that makes them feel good or having a meaningful conversation.” Be Mine Boutique offers local, in-person shopping for USbased clothing brands, locally published books, hand-sourced vintage items, jewelry and gifts for customers of all demographics. The store’s name originates from Pakradooni’s birthday — Valentine’s Day. — Evelyn Buck
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637 PENN AVENUE, WEST READING 610.816.5635 | SHOPBEMINE.COM
20% OFF
Holiday Gift Cards
E-Gift Card Promo Code: HOL25 On sale in salons Nov 1 - Dec 24, 2025 Buy online through Dec 25. Redeem starting Dec 26, 2025.
FREE GIFT! Receive a Sorrelli Pendent Necklace when you purchase a Holiday Gift Card of $300 or more! While supplies last. Limit 3 free gifts per purchase during promotional period 11/1-12/25/2025. While supplies last, colors and styles will vary per location.
1.844.LLSALONS | LLSALONS.COM Douglassville | Exeter | Fleetwood | Sinking Spring | Pottstown | Perkiomenville | Gilbertsville
Best Residential Senior Living Community
The Heritage of Green Hills
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MULTIPLE LOCATIONS IN BERKS & MONTGOMERY COUNTIES | 844.725.6655 LORDSANDLADIESSALONS.COM
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1109 BERN RD. WYOMISSING | 610.375.2700 WORKSWYOMISSING.COM
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— Antonio Ieraci-Rivera
E A D I N G & B ER K S C O U
“Family Fun” means fun for everyone at The Works, not just kids. Offering activities for all ages, from the children’s climbing gym (Ballocity) to go karts (Slick Willy’s), laser tag (The Laser Mill), video and carnival-type games, even a restaurant and bar, The Works is a great place to spend a family day out. “I just think Berks is really special, and we’re lucky to be a part of the community,” says Manager Caitlin Dopsovic. The family-owned business has been striving to bring your family fun and happiness for over two decades now. Visit on Wednesdays and Thursdays for half-priced specials in the arcade and on Tuesdays and Thursdays for two hours of video gameplay for just $10. Party packages are also available for kids and teens, too.
With its versatility and ties to the community, it’s no coincidence Lords & Ladies has been winning Best of Berks awards since 2015 in a variety of beauty categories. Not only do its professionals specialize in everything your hair may need — from regular maintenance cuts to event styling — they also continue to master their craft with more than 700 hours of free continuing education. Then there’s the welcoming atmosphere. As the head of marketing, Brittney Bennett, puts it, “Customers say they feel like they’re coming home.” With multiple locations in Berks and Montgomery counties, every salon has a unique atmosphere, and customers build bonds with their stylists, which is the ultimate goal. Bennett wholeheartedly asserts, “We appreciate being a part of their life.” — Zoe Robinson
OF R
The Works
Salon & Medical Spa
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Best Hair Salon
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Best
This is the ninth win for The Heritage of Green Hills. The 78-acre property on gently rolling hills has 197 apartments for independent living, 50 personal care units and 20 memory care residences. The community emphasizes maintaining the independence of residents, ensuring they have their voices heard. Residents can participate in committees for decisionmaking, veterans’ clubs, book clubs, card clubs and more. “It’s a very family-like atmosphere as soon as you walk in,” says director of sales and marketing, Marissa Williams. “Residents take pride in that because they help build that culture.” The Heritage offers ways to have fun and stay active, like frequent field trips and exercise classes at the fitness center and pool. There’s even a resident cheerleading squad: the Heritage Hotties. “We’re a live-it-up community. You come here to live your best life and enjoy this next journey,” says Williams. — Leah Hart
eersCtamp B Summ
200 TRANQUILITY LN. SHILLINGTON | 484.269.5100 HERITAGEOFGREENHILLS.COM
YMCA of Reading & Berks County
This summer, adventure, connection and fun await at the YMCA of Reading and Berks County Summer Camp, where children from kindergarten through age 12 can enjoy 11 weeks of STEM enrichment activities, group games, challenges and field trips. Each week brings a new theme, from “Splashtacular” to “Seasons of Celebration,” where campers can dress up as their favorite season. Once a week, staff take campers on a new field trip, with destinations ranging from Topgolf to a Phillies game. To practice character development, every Friday a “Camper of the Week” is recognized for leadership, kindness and character, followed by a camp-wide celebration. The program emphasizes the Y’s core values of honesty, responsibility and respect while weaving in curriculum-based activities. “We want the kids starting where they left off once they return to school, not behind,” Christina Faller, vice president of marketing and communications, says. Enrollment opens at the end of November with a Black Friday special, and camps run from late June through early August. — Bethany McDonald 631 WASHINGTON ST., READING | 610.378.4700 YMCARBC.ORG/SUMMER-DAY-CAMP
Thank you for voting us
Best Burger!
12 VILLAGE CENTER DR., READING
610.775.6575
LOUIESKITCHENANDBAR.COM
Mon.–Thurs. 11 a.m.–10 p.m. / Fri.–Sat. 11 a.m.–11 p.m. / *Kitchen closes one hour earlier than the bar **Open till end of all Eagles games (Go Birds!)
Best Pet-Friendly Business
Tails a' waggin'
2321 PENN AVENUE WEST LAWN 610.678.9446 TAILSAWAGGINPA.NET
Best
florist Stein's Flowers
Owned by Amy Waltz, Stein’s Flowers prides itself on its homegrown nature and community-based approach to business. “We’re familybased,” Amy says. “I’ve done people’s weddings. I’ve done their kids' weddings now. I treat everyone like family and like they’re special.” Because for her, they truly are. With flowers sourced globally, ranging from South America to Holland, Stein’s has been serving customers for more than 32 years. Whether creating wedding arrangements or selling poinsettias and snack baskets for the holidays, Waltz has anchored herself in her community. “People come in and talk to each other while they’re waiting,” Amy says. “It’s very friendly.” With a lasting commitment to serving customers, Stein’s Flowers offers orders in-person, via DoorDash and will be expanding to online ordering this month (December 2025). — Linnea Devenney
Best Dance Studio
Limelight Dance Studio Since opening its doors in 1999, LimeLight Dance Studio has been a place where dancers shine. Current owner Amanda Schaeffer, who has been teaching at LimeLight since 2008 and took over as owner in 2022, says earning the title of Best Dance Studio is “an honor, very exciting. This award will really showcase that we are exactly what we stand for — bringing light.” What sets LimeLight apart is its familyoriented spirit and focus on growth. “We put pride in gaining confidence, making sure everyone is learning techniques but also having fun,” Schaeffer says. The studio recently moved to a new location with more space, allowing room to grow. Schaeffer says the most rewarding moments come from seeing students grow. “Kids always come back and let us know how much we’ve helped them flourish through dance.” Along with the move to a new location, families can also look forward to upcoming recitals, including their annual Christmas showcase. — Shakyiah Newkirk
32 STATE ST., SHILLINGTON | 610.775.0430 | STEINSFLORIST.COM 220 N. PARK RD., BUILDING 7B, WYOMISSING 610.478.4001 | LIMELIGHTDANCESTUDIO.COM
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PHOTO BY MASTER1305/ADOBE STOCK
First time Best of Berks Winner, Cindy Smith, owner of Tails A’ Waggin’, not only makes sure dogs look their best after a visit to the shop but ensures they have a pleasant experience while they’re there. Since opening her grooming salon in 1998, Smith has dedicated her life to pampering pooches and offering great conversation with pet parents when they visit. “We know a lot of our customers really well,” says Smith. She understands that grooming is “not a dog’s favorite thing” but offers them a kind atmosphere and, of course, treats. Pet parents will not only be greeted by friendly staff but a friendly 18-year-old cat named Gepetta that sleeps in a basket on the counter and likes to climb on people’s shoulders. Smith says her business is unique because she has great employees where everyone cares about dogs. She asserts, “We’re all dog lovers. We understand the dogs.” — Samantha Frey
Thank you
for voting us
Best New Business
600 Penn Avenue, West Reading | 610.200.5107 | midtownwestreading.com
Thank you for your vote! From our staff to you we want to thank you from the bottom of our hearts! Meggan + Rebecca + Gilded Staff
80 Commerce Drive Wyomissing, PA 19610 484-509-4164
14ky Diamond and Opal Necklace
berkscountyliving.com | DECEMBER 2025
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Best Landscaping Company Connelly
Lawn & Garden Whether you are looking to capture the untamed beauty of Yosemite or preserve your little backyard sanctuary, Connelly Lawn & Garden takes pride in tackling your landscaping dreams. Sitting high on their ninth win, Berks County’s best landscaping company is known for establishing long-term relationships over its 36 years of business. Owners Tom and Linda Connelly’s passion for gardening has blossomed, creating a team that “shares their dedication to the art and craft of landscaping as well as sharing their values.” Connelly provides a multitude of services, from landscape design and installation to their Personal Gardening Service, seeing highly trained horticulturists manage the full scope of commercial and residential landscaping needs. Taking stock of their extraordinary string of wins, Linda and Tom are happy to report that their business roots are as deep in the community as ever. — Travis Rach 703 HENRY CIRCLE SINKING SPRING 610.678.8949 CONNELLYLAWN.COM
home-related business stHenry BeAnn Home Décor With hand-selected rustic furniture and décor, including Amish pieces, Ann Henry Home Décor takes pride in providing clients with not only the best quality of merchandise but a superior shopping experience, too. “We make it so that everybody that enters, we treat them like family. In fact, our customers always say they are our family,” says owner Nancy Michaels. In addition to building a community with their customers, Ann Henry Home Décor strives to uplift other small businesses by featuring products from many local entrepreneurs in their Blandon shop. If you’re looking for a unique gift or holiday décor, look no further than Ann Henry Home Décor. What started as a business in a co-op carriage house of a farm is now a pillar of community. It just goes to show, Ann Henry Home Décor cares. — Antonio Ieraci-Rivera 850 GOLDEN DR., MAIDENCREEK TOWN CENTER, BLANDON | 610.741.7357
Best Pampering Spot
Bell Tower Salon, Medi-Spa & Store Looking for a pampering spot that is more than just a spa? Bell Tower Salon, Medi-Spa & Store is able to address a full spectrum of clients’ beauty and wellness needs. Offering cuts, coloring and styling, nail services, as well as skin and body care, it’s the perfect place for putting you first. Want to go all out? Book the signature package for six hours of pampering, including a massage, facial, sauna session, manicure and pedicure. Rhelm is a digital lifestyle brand/boutique arm of Bell Tower. The mission is to curate content and products around beauty, wellness, fashion and lifestyle — connecting a spa/salon experience with shopping and inspiration. A top seller is Oribe, a hair line for which owner Carolyn Helms was a founding partner. Spa Manager Becky Eshenaur says, “We allow guests to carry a touch of the Bell Tower experience with them and keep their hair healthy and beautiful long after their visit.” — Mary Younes 18 STATE HILL RD. WYOMISSING | 610.372.6379 BELLTOWERSALONSPA.COM
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THANK YOU FOR VOTING US
Best Event Venue
965 Park Rd., Blandon 610.709.7438
foxrosefarm.com
Congrats 25
25
to the winners! thank you for voting us
Best Florist! From fresh florals to thoughtful
gifts, Stein’s Flowers has everything you need
to make life a little brighter!
610.775.0430 32 State St., Shillington steinsflorist.com berkscountyliving.com | DECEMBER 2025
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Best Photographer
Ashlie bradley photography
What started as a fun photography hobby for Ashlie Bradley turned into an obsession – and now a career. Bradley is an extraordinary artist who prides herself on making sure all her clients have a one-of-a-kind experience and receive awardworthy photos. Maternity sessions are her most commonly booked shoots, and it’s no surprise why moms-to-be trust her with capturing such a momentous time of their lives. She says, “I like making women feel pretty during a time where you usually don’t.” Bradley also specializes in newborn photography and gets to see moms again once their precious babies are born. Clients of Ashlie’s have the freedom to just show up to her studio with nothing but a vision; she takes care of the rest. She offers hair, makeup and wardrobe services and can bring whatever vision the client has in mind to life. — Eden Johnson 2158 HIGHLAND AVENUE, READING | 610.750.5118 ASHLIEBRADLEYPHOTOGRAPHY.COM
Manor Golf Club
Manor Golf Club is back for their tenth Best of Berks win, earning them lifetime status starting in 2026! This value-oriented course isn’t a country club; they are anybody’s golf course. Owner Cheryl Heckman takes pride in welcoming people of every age, gender and skill level to the game she loves. When asked what she thinks brings players back to the course, Heckman says, “That they feel very comfortable and very valued here.” Manor Golf Club hosts more than 70 unique tournaments a year, including their Pumpkin Par 3 and Iron Man Scramble. They also offer the largest instructional program in the area for kids with coaches that are certified through US Kids Golf and First Tee. Instructional programs don’t stop with kids; they also offer private lessons and Get Golf Ready sessions for all ages. You can always expect consistency when playing here; the greens are in excellent shape as they’ve been cared for by the same superintendent, Eric Krick, for 40+ years! — Paige Adams 153 BRAN RD., SINKING SPRING | 610.678.9597 | THEMANORGOLFCLUB.COM
PHOTO BY ASHLIE BRADLEY PHOTOGRAPHY
Best
public golf course
Best Local Nonprofit Organization
Berks County Community Foundation Berks County Community Foundation (BCCF) began in 1994 “to promote philanthropy and improve quality of life in Berks County,” says Molly McCullough Robbins, vice president for philanthropic services. BCCF manages donated funds and distributes grants and scholarships throughout Berks County. Grants belong primarily to three categories: health and human services, education and learning and environment and energy. Berks County students receive scholarships totaling $600,000 to $700,000 from the foundation annually. Examples of large grants include funding for Spotlight PA Berks County news bureau in 2024 and Berks Community Health Center in 2012. Small grants help organizations and individuals in need. To apply for grants or donate, visit their website or contact their helpful staff. Berks County Community Foundation adapts to community needs. “We always need to keep learning, growing and sharing our expertise,” says Robbins. They listen to community leaders and encourage leaders to learn from each other. — Leah Hart 237 COURT ST., READING | 610.685.2223 | BCCF.ORG
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est Bfitness facility Orangetheory Wyomissing Whether you are a gung-ho workout pro or new to fitness, Orangetheory Wyomissing’s wide range of membership options makes it easy for you to join their community. Stop in for a single class, a few sessions a month or gain unlimited access. A variety of class options are available, each taking you through a full-body workout with the guidance of a heart rate monitor and constant motivation from your coach. The staff at Orangetheory Wyomissing takes pride in the community mindedness of its members and the support that they offer, both physically and mentally. As Assistant Head Coach Erin Morrissey explains, “Our staff supports one another from within, and that resonates through to our members… we want to be there for them as a person, not just for their physical health.” — Liane Schrack 2791 PAPER MILL RD., STE. 3, WYOMISSING 484.450.8895 | ORANGETHEORY.COM
Thank you!
for your support and for voting us
Best Holistic Health Services
New Beginnings Massage Wellness Center
Self-care is key at New Beginnings Massage Wellness Center. From deep tissue massages to raindrop therapy, many types of relief — from chronic pain, stress and more — can be found here, and the thoughtful staff always puts your needs first. The ultimate goal is to help you heal without needing medical intervention. Owner Beth Zullinger says, “...It is the environment, our staff and our hearts” when it comes to the difference at this wellness center, which is open seven days a week. These licensed professionals aim to provide relief from physical ailments and to boost your mental health, too, through massage services, Reiki, Reflexology and more. If any reader is wondering if this is the place for them, Zullinger suggests booking an appointment, “Because they’re ready for a new beginning in their life.” — Zoe Robinson 200 SPRING RIDGE DR., STE. 202, WYOMISSING 484.755.5610 | NEWBEGINNINGSMT.COM
BEST DANCE STUDIO FIND YOUR MOMENT IN THE LIMELIGHT! We offer a fun & unique dance experience for all ages, from pre-school to adults. 220 N. Park Rd., Building 7B, Wyomissing
610.478.4001 LIMELIGHTDANCESTUDIO.COM
berkscountyliving.com | DECEMBER 2025
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Best Jewelry store Gilded Design Studio
Just speaking to the owners of Gilded Design Studio, you can instantly feel the love and care they have for each piece of jewelry they create. Meggan Skiles has been in the industry for about 20 years, and Rebecca Freundt brings 14 years of her own experience. Together, they’ve built more than a jewelry shop; they’ve created a space where stories turn into designs. What sets Gilded Design Studio apart is how personal the process feels. They don’t just sketch something and hand it over; they actually sit down, talk and connect with each customer. Inspiration comes from those conversations, from places and even from simple moments. Rebecca once designed a piece inspired by the ocean. The business isn’t just about jewelry. They give back, too, hosting clothing drives and planning cancer awareness events to provide medicine and mammograms for women in need. Their best advice for anyone chasing a dream in the jewelry industry? “Just go for it.” — Shakyiah Newkirk
Thank you for voting us
Best Lunch Spot
Best Financial Institution
Fleetwood Bank
4600 Penn Avenue, Sinking Spring
484.509.5955 cravecafe.net 48
DECEMBER 2025 | berkscountyliving.com
With an impressive seven locations throughout Berks County, Fleetwood Bank is a clear fixture in the community. “There used to be more than 20 banks headquartered in Berks County,” says VP, Director of Marketing, Angela Cremer. “Today, we are the only bank still headquartered here.” This is not a title Fleetwood Bank takes lightly. The business proudly sponsors events throughout the county, including the Oley Fair, Reading Symphony Orchestra concerts and the Chile Pepper Festival, to name a few. “We are a catalyst to help build strong communities, and that is done through reinvesting back into the communities we serve,” explains Cremer. Customers will be glad to know that Fleetwood Bank has all of the capabilities of a large bank with the personalized touch of a smaller business. They offer mobile and remote banking as well as access to ATMs around the US. As Cremer says, “You can bank local from anywhere with Fleetwood.” — Ella Frey LOCATIONS IN BLANDON, FLEETWOOD, KUTZTOWN, LYONS, OLEY, SHOEMAKERSVILLE & WYOMISSING | 610.944.7666 | FLEETWOODBANK.COM
PHOTO COURTESY FLEETWOOD BANK
80 COMMERCE DR., WYOMISSING | 484.509.4164 | GILDEDDESIGNSTUDIO.COM
PHOTO COURTESY FOX ROSE FARM
We’re honored to be voted the Best of Berks
Best Event Venue
Fox Rose Farm
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BERKS COUNTY’S GOURMET COFFEE RESOURCE
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IN A ROW!
22
15877 Kutztown Road (Rt. 222) Maxatawny
610.944.1313
FirehouseCoffee.com
Extend your
Holiday Cheer
well into the New Year!
all! ze fits i s e n O
Best Consignment Shop From The Heart Consignment Shop
4600 PENN AVENUE SINKING SPRING | 484.509.4441 FROMTHEHEARTCONSIGNMENT.COM
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From The Heart Consignment Shop offers a luxury shopping experience with bargain price tags. “We pride ourselves on great customer service as if we were a high-end store,” says owner Katherine Scheese. Since 2014, From The Heart has learned to adapt to ever-changing fashion trends. They sell women’s shoes, handbags, accessories, jewelry and clothing from sizes XS to 3X. Children’s clothes for boys and girls are available from sizes 0-12. They source items from boutique overstock and consigned items. To consign clothes, make an appointment on their website or call the store. From The Heart is a Christian-based store and has donated more than $156,000 to local nonprofits since opening. Every December, their Purse Project fundraiser donates handbags, hygiene items and gifts to women in need across the Reading area. They have donated 1,765 purses in nine years, and this year, their goal is 450 purses. — Leah Hart
TIME AWAR
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965 PARK RD., BLANDON | 610.709.7438 FOXROSEFARM.COM
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Fox Rose Farm is a beautiful, rustic venue that can accommodate up to 150 for weddings, sweet 16s, family photos and just about anything else you can imagine. When you book your event — typically a year in advance for weddings and a few months for other occasions — you’ll work directly with the owners, Joanna and Brian Hersh, who guide you every step of the way. They want to make your experience a personal and enjoyable one. With décor already in place for guests — and the option to use outside catering — you’ll have the freedom to create the celebration you envision. Say Joanna and Brian, “The guests feel good when they walk in,” whether that be from the beautiful five acres of land or the gorgeously decorated barn with lights and draping ready before you arrive. Pay a visit and discover it for yourself. — Elliana Euclide
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332 Cherry Street, Reading EMAIL OR SNAIL MAIL AVAILABLE 610.374.8511 or judy@judysoncherry.com TO ORDER
610.374.8511
judysoncherry.com
THANK YOU FOR YOUR SUPPORT
RD., READING ... and for voting us the 160 OLDFORFRIEDENSBURG RESERVATIONS, TEXT best bar food FOR484.578.9991 TAKEOUT, CALL 610.779.5797 in Berks County! BERTIESINNEXETER.COM
berkscountyliving.com | DECEMBER 2025
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MEET OUR 10 LIFETIME WINNERS! HOW DID THEY ACHIEVE THAT STATUS? BY EARNING 10 OR MORE WINS IN THEIR RESPECTIVE CATEGORIES. GET TO KNOW THESE TRIED-AND-TRUE FAVORITES...
winners
Best Country Hotel/Restaurant
Best Independent Jeweler
A true “delightful departure from the everyday,” the Yellow House Hotel is a historic inn dating back to 1801, offering not only charming overnight accommodations but also exceptional dining, rich history and warm, attentive service. Whether visiting for lunch, Sunday brunch, dinner or a special event, guests can expect a welcoming atmosphere coupled with thoughtfully prepared cuisine. The dinner menu features elevated classics such as Maple Leaf Duck Breast, Wild Caught Parmesan Crusted Salmon and a Frenched Pork Chop. Brunch brings a variety of tempting options, including Eggs Benedict, Golden Malted Belgian Waffles, a hot prime rib sandwich and, of course, mimosas. Reservations are highly recommended, and guests are encouraged to visit the Yellow House Hotel’s website for current hours and additional details.
For those seeking the perfect gift for someone special, Van Scoy Jewelers in Wyomissing is a must-visit destination. Owned by Caroline Hill, a Penn State alum and Diamond Graduate of the Gemological Institute of America (GIA), Van Scoy Jewelers prides itself on a friendly and knowledgeable team with nearly 100 years of combined industry experience, ensuring exceptional, personalized service with every visit. For truly one-of-a-kind pieces, customers can meet with Sal, the expert jeweler at Van Scoy. Sal specializes in custom fabrication, turning any idea into reality. Bonus: all work is completed in house, so clients never have to worry about extended wait times or sending their treasured items away. Planning ahead? Customers can even create a wish list online — perfect for giving loved ones a subtle holiday hint.
6743 BOYERTOWN PIKE, DOUGLASSVILLE 610.689.9410 | YELLOWHOUSEHOTEL.COM
1121 PENN AVENUE, WYOMISSING | 610.374.9330 | VANSCOY.COM
Yellow House Hotel
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Van Scoy Jewelers
PHOTO COURTESY SOUTH MOUNTAIN YMCA
Best Summer Camp
South Mountain YMCA
201 CUSHION PEAK RD., WERNERSVILLE 610.670.2267 | SMYMCA.ORG
Best Fitness Center
Body Zone
Sports and Wellness Complex Body Zone Sports and Wellness Complex is a premier destination for all things fitness, wellness and sports, offering something for every member of the family. Spanning 160,000 square feet, the state-of-the-art facility features Body Zone Physical Therapy, a full-service fitness center, indoor track and pool, the REP ROOM Group Workout Studio, two NHLsized ice rinks, two Spinturf synthetic grass sports fields and a basketball court. Whether it’s joining a group fitness class, swimming laps or training on the latest strength and cardio equipment (over 200 pieces strong), Body Zone supports your health and wellness goals. Designed as a one-stop hub for getting stronger, feeling better and taking charge of personal wellness, Body Zone truly offers it all under one roof.
PHOTO COURTESY BELLA JULES FASHION BOUTIQUE
Welcome South Mountain YMCA to the lifetime rankings! The honor comes as a result of the camp offering a powerful combination of unforgettable experiences, meaningful friendships and a deep commitment to character development. South Mountain is a place where children grow, connect and thrive. With a wide range of activities from climbing and swimming to cooking, music and target sports, campers enjoy nonstop fun while building confidence and discovering new interests. What truly sets South Mountain apart is its focus on personal growth. One staffer explains, “Most folks come back because of the friends they made.” South Mountain YMCA offers day camp for 1st through 8th graders and overnight camp for 2nd grade through high school seniors. At its core, the camp uses every activity as a tool to instill the YMCA’s core values of caring, honesty, respect and responsibility.
est Blocal clothing boutique Bella Jules Fashion Boutique For those looking to dress to impress, Bella Jules Boutique in West Reading offers a carefully curated collection of unique, comfortable fashions perfect for every occasion — from date nights to formal events and prom. With options to suit all styles and budgets, shoppers are encouraged to explore the sale racks for great deals, too. Since opening in 2005, owner Juli Cleaver has handpicked stylish pieces and accessories for a diverse clientele that includes fashionable moms, professionals, trendy teens and more. Juli stays on top of the latest trends to ensure the boutique always features fresh finds. New merchandise arrives frequently, providing customers with an ever-evolving shopping experience complemented by attentive service and expert fashion advice. To stay updated on store happenings, shoppers can follow on Instagram at @bellajulesboutique and on Facebook at facebook.com/bellajules700. 700 PENN AVENUE, WEST READING | 610.208.0600 | BELLAJULESBOUTIQUE.COM
3103 PAPER MILL RD., WYOMISSING 610.376.2100 | BODYZONESPORTS.COM berkscountyliving.com | DECEMBER 2025
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Best Cosmetic Enhancement Facility Advanced Skin Care, Laser & Body Contouring Center
Best Diner
One of the key reasons Exeter Family Restaurant has earned Lifetime status as Best Diner? A steadfast commitment to freshness. The team stands by their promise: “We continuously serve you the best! In every way, quality will always take precedent.” And the consistently full parking lot says it all. Guests are welcomed by a warm, attentive staff who treat everyone like family. Specialties include hearty and healthy specialty dishes, including homemade soups and a large, 40-item all-you-can-eat salad bar. Breakfast is especially popular, featuring biscuits & gravy, create-yourown omelets, custom skillets, Belgian waffles, Oreo pancakes and more. Open 24 hours a day, Exeter Family Restaurant is always ready to welcome customers, be it for a hearty breakfast, a late-night bite or anything in between. Reservations are available, and convenient online ordering makes pick-up a breeze. 4800 PERKIOMEN AVENUE READING | 610.370.5131 EXETERFAMILYRESTAURANT.COM
PHOTO COURTESY EXETER FAMILY RESTAURANT
Exeter Family Restaurant
For those considering an aesthetic procedure, Advanced Skin Care, Laser & Body Contouring Center offers the ideal combination of advanced medical technology and compassionate, personalized care. Under the expert direction of Dr. Harriet Comite, the center has become a trusted destination for those seeking natural-looking results with confidence. A graduate of Yale University School of Medicine and a Cosmetic Board-Certified dermatologist, Dr. Comite brings decades of experience and a patient-first approach to every treatment. Dr. Comite is the region’s premier injector of Botox® and Dermal Fillers. The Center offers a wide range of innovative services, including Lasers, Body Contouring, Morpheus8™ and the Revian Red Hair Growth System, a cutting-edge light-based therapy for hair restoration. In fact, Advanced Skin Care is the only location in Berks County to offer all of these advanced treatments under one roof. New patients are always welcome. 1260 BROADCASTING RD., WYOMISSING 610.374.1400 | COMITESKIN.COM
Thank you, Berks County! for voting us Best
Outdoor Dining Spot
Family Owned & Operated Since 1997 290 Morgantown Rd., Reading 610.373.2800 | mimmos.org
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P H OTO B Y J O H N A
Best Fine Dining
Tom Masano Auto Group, Inc.
. S EC OG
Judy’s on Cherry
Best Car Dealership
ES,
GoggleWorks is committed to transforming lives through the power of art. The organization recently constructed a new Art Park, designed to be a vibrant hub for creativity. GoggleWorks aims to make the arts accessible to everyone, offering a place where all are invited to explore, create and be inspired. Inside the building, visitors can engage with dynamic gallery exhibits, interact with artists in their studios, watch an indie film at the Albert & Eunice Boscov Theatre or take a hands-on class in one of the maker studios. GoggleWorks also hosts a range of beloved annual events, including the Handcrafted Holiday Market, Pumpkin Palooza and the Iron Pour. For those looking to purchase unique art or support local artisans, The New Store offers a curated selection of handcrafted works that celebrate creativity and craftsmanship.
Founded in Reading in 1954 by brothers Tom and Bruce Masano, the Masano family of dealerships has built a strong reputation for offering a wide selection of vehicles backed by knowledgeable, customerfocused service. Today, Masano dealerships include locations specializing in BMW, Ford, Lincoln, Mercedes-Benz and Sprinter as well as the expansive Masano USA Pre-Owned SuperCenter, where the used inventory often exceeds 300 vehicles. For those in the market for commercial vehicles, Masano also offers a full line of Ford and MercedesBenz commercial trucks, vans, pickups, cargo vans and crew vans — making them a one-stop destination for both personal and business vehicle needs. The Masano team is driven by a commitment to excellence, stating, “We know that you have high expectations, and we enjoy the challenge of meeting and exceeding those standards each and every time.”
332 CHERRY ST., READING 610.374.8511 | JUDYSONCHERRY.COM
201 WASHINGTON ST., READING 610.374.4600 | GOGGLEWORKS.ORG.
815 LANCASTER AVENUE, READING 610.777.6587 | TOMMASANO.COM
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Visitors to Judy’s on Cherry can expect the ultimate fine dining experience in a stunning setting. Once a farmers market, the restaurant now welcomes guests beneath vaulted wooden ceilings and an inviting, beautifully designed interior. Judy’s specializes in Mediterraneaninspired fine dining with a focus on seasonal dishes crafted from fresh, quality ingredients. Menu favorites include the rich butternut squash soup with crab, a Greek Spinach Salad with local red and green bell peppers and a Pan Seared Yellow Fin Tuna Provenciale. Vegan entrees are also available alongside the much-loved hearth-fired pizzas. Desserts are equally impressive, featuring homemade seasonal creations as well as year-round classics like fresh blueberry pie and Mrs. Wesner’s Coconut Layer Cake. To stay up to date, guests are encouraged to check the event page for special happenings. Reservations are strongly recommended.
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Best Place to Celebrate the Arts GoggleWorks Center for the Arts
$100 GIFT CARD
OFF $500 OR MORE
NOT VALID ON PREVIOUS PURCHASES OR ANY OTHER OFFER. SOME EXCLUSIONS APPLY SEE STORE FOR DETAILS. EXPIRES 12/31/2025
$200 GIFT CARD
OFF $1,000 OR MORE NOT VALID ON PREVIOUS PURCHASES OR ANY OTHER OFFER. SOME EXCLUSIONS APPLY SEE STORE FOR DETAILS. EXPIRES 12/31/2025
FROM YOUR FRIENDS AT
$500 GIFT CARD
OFF $5,000 OR MORE NOT VALID ON PREVIOUS PURCHASES OR ANY OTHER OFFER. SOME EXCLUSIONS APPLY SEE STORE FOR DETAILS. EXPIRES 12/31/2025
1121 PENN AVENUE WYOMISSING, PA 19610 610.374.9330 | VANSCOY.COM
berkscountyliving.com | DECEMBER 2025
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Thank You!
2025
f o t s e B
winners
18
JENNA B. PHOTOGRAPHY
for voting us the Best Landscaping Company nine out of the last ten years! 18
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Best Place to Enjoy the Arts
23
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610.678.8949 ConnellyLawn.com
READING PUBLIC MUSEUM
Best Bar Food (Establishment)
Thank you for voting us
THE NEW BERTIE’S INN
Best Spot for Brunch
BEST FAMILY RESTAURANT
MORNING FUEL
Best Burger
MENU OPTIONS & AFFORDABLE FAMILY TAKE-OUT MEALS AVAILABLE DAILY
LOUIE’S KITCHEN & BAR
Join us for our New Year’s
BRUNCH
Best Coffee Spot
FIREHOUSE COFFEE
Best Consignment Shop
FROM THE HEART CONSIGNMENT
Best Dance Studio
1245 Penn Avenue, Wyomissing 610.373.3353 /// Open Daily 6am to 3pm wyomissingrestaurantandbakery.com
LIMELIGHT DANCE STUDIO
Best Place to Meet for Drinks THE BAR CART
Best Event Venue FOX ROSE FARM
Best Family-friendly Restaurant
WYOMISSING RESTAURANT & BAKERY
Best Local Family Fun Spot THE WORKS
Best Financial Institution
THANK YOU, BERKS COUNTY
FLEETWOOD BANK
Best Fine Dining (non-chain)
FOR YOUR CONTINUED SUPPORT!
A LIGHT IN THE ATTIC MODERN SPEAKEASY
Best Fitness Facility
200 Spring Ridge Dr. Suite 202, Wyomissing 484.755.5610 • newbeginningsmt.com
ORANGETHEORY WYOMISSING
Best Florist
STEIN’S FLOWERS 18
Thank You FOR
22
MANOR GOLF CLUB
22
Best Hair Salon
23
542 PENN AVENUE, WEST READING 484.987.7338 • SWEETRIDEICECREAM.COM
Best Public Golf Course
LORDS & LADIES
23
VINTAGE ICE CREAM BIKE MOBILE ICE CREAM PARLOR SWEET RIDE TRUCK
GOURMAND
18
VOTING US BEST PLACE TO SATISFY YOUR SWEET TOOTH PARLOR & SODA FOUNTAIN
Best Food Truck
Best Place for Healthy Eats CLEAN EATZ
Best Holistic Health Services
NEW BEGINNINGS MASSAGE WELLNESS CENTER
Best Home-related Business (non-chain) ANN HENRY HOME DÉCOR
Best Jewelry Store (non-chain) GILDED DESIGN STUDIO
Best Landscaping Company
CONNELLY LAWN & GARDEN
Best Lunch Spot CRAVE CAFÉ
Best New Business (opened in 2025) MIDTOWN SIP-SAVOR-SOCIAL
Best Local Nonprofit Organization
BERKS COUNTY COMMUNITY FOUNDATION
Best Outdoor Dining Spot MIMMO’S RESTAURANT
Best Pampering Spot
BELL TOWER SALON, MEDI-SPA & STORE
Best Pet-friendly Business TAILS A’ WAGGIN’
Best Photographer
ASHLIE BRADLEY PHOTOGRAPHY
Best Residential Senior Living Community THE HERITAGE OF GREEN HILLS
Best Summer Camp
YMCA OF READING & BERKS COUNTY
Best Sweet Treat Shop
SWEET RIDE ICE CREAM, LLC.
Best Local Winery
CLOVER HILL VINEYARDS & WINERY
Best Women’s Boutique BE MINE BOUTIQUE
LIFETIME Awards
THANK YOU, BERKS COUNTY! We’re honored to be named BEST FOOD TRUCK in the 2025 Best of Berks Awards. Your support keeps us rolling — and we can’t wait to keep serving up the flavors you love!
945 Berkshire Blvd., Wyomissing 610.743.3233 GOURMANDPA.COM
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VAN SCOY JEWELERS
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Order online or purchase in the pro shop themanorgolfclub.com Bran Rd., Sinking Spring | 610.678.9597 berkscountyliving.com | DECEMBER 2025
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LIVING IN STYLE
s a m t s i r h C
SO MUCH LIGHT
Now, light enters and exits from the home’s many windows. Walls painted white, marble flooring and counter surfaces and simple but elegant black-and-white artwork provide visual stimulation without distracting from the open feel of the interior. And while year-round the house is appealing, the wow quotient increases exponentially with Olga’s inspired holiday décor. “Christmas is the season I go all out for,” she says. In her early years spent mostly in Reading’s south side and in her native Puerto Rico, family economics were often challenged. “During my childhood, we didn’t decorate much, and often it was just one present — and sometimes, if it was a game, it was one present for two of us,” she recalls. Still, the happy holiday memories are what dominate. In her young adult years as a single mother raising three children first in the Oakbrook Homes and then in her first house purchased 35 years ago in the 12th and Oley neighborhood, money was tight. Still, the holidays were always a special time. During her career at Neighborhood Housing Services, she was able to invest enough to move on to building the Leanne home where she lived for nearly 20 years.
SAVORING NATURE
BY DONNA REED | PHOTOS BY JOHN A. SECOGES, SECOGES PHOTOGRAPHICS
If you are looking for the epitome of Christmas cool, you need look no further than the lovely Muhlenberg Township home of Olga Perez Rosa and her husband Ricardo. The couple’s abode is a family haven enhanced by the light that shines in during the day and emanates outward after nightfall.
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DECEMBER 2025 | berkscountyliving.com
Olga and Ricardo had the fourbedroom, 2,500-square-foot house built in 2022 in a new development near the old curve of Stoudt’s Ferry Bridge Road in the far northwest corner of the township adjacent to the popular Jim Dietrich Park. Olga’s love for the area is real — her new home is perhaps, at most, a quarter mile from her prior home
on Leanne Street in the circa-1990s Rivervale development visible from, but comfortably set back from, multi-lane Route 222. Though Olga loved her Leanne residence, it was a semi-detached house. She and Ricardo wanted a detached, single-family home. Working with the developer, the house of their dreams took shape.
Olga loves that her new home faces some of the remaining open spaces in Muhlenberg — primarily the nearby park, the wooded boundaries of the nearby Schuylkill River and a small forested hill to the west on the Bern Township side of the river. “That’s why I don’t have curtains on the windows,” she says. “There is too much beauty to see. I like to feel like I live in a modern treehouse.” The beauty at Christmas time is also abundant inside the house. Olga begins decorating around Halloween. She gets a kick out of the neighborhood trick-ortreaters teasing her when they see holiday decorations as they stop by for candy.
Every year Olga builds on what she considers the basics of her décor. Those standbys are gold, silver and white ornaments that adorn everything from her trees to the stairway garland. Some years, the traditional red and green hues are limited to accents on the front exterior from wreaths, an arrangement in a container by the front door and a bright welcome mat. “I just think it (the neutrals) allows the flexibility of bringing in different colors and being able to change the atmosphere,” she says. “I even change out the covers of the cushions on the sofa or change out the (area) rug.”
BEING COST CONSCIOUS
“These are very inexpensive things to do. I want to keep creating, and I don’t want to be stuck with the same look, especially since I’m retired and home a bit more now.” The bulk of Olga’s decorating efforts are concentrated in the open concept kitchen/dining/ lounge/living space. The soaring ceiling in the living area enhances the impact.
She displays several trees — all proudly artificial and sourced from Puleo International. Not only are they more versatile in size and variety and ultimate affordability, but she wryly notes, they don’t bring inside some of the intriguing but problematic flora and fauna elements that can attach themselves to the harvested evergreens. The first tree to encounter is just inside the front door adjacent to the garland-strewn stairway. Four trees flank the living room fireplace — a nine-footer to the left and a trio of six- to three-footers to the right. The large tree, set in a large black planter, is a symphony of faux silvered and gilded branches, poinsettia flowers, leaves, berries and huge gold ornaments, all illuminated with strands of clear twinkly lights. Olga points to clear ornaments placed snugly in any holes between the decorations. “They help catch the light and hide the bare spots,” she says. 58
DECEMBER 2025 | berkscountyliving.com
CHERISHED IMAGES
The most important ornaments, she notes, are the miniature photos of her children and five grandchildren. The tableau of the small, flocked trees, less densely attired but accented by some large white balls, is a happy whimsy placed on a swath of golden cloth. Two curious little pale squirrels stand on either side of a silver ribbonbedecked reindeer. (Many of his ceramic relatives occupy their own places of note throughout the expansive space.) The theme of placing these small animal figures threads throughout the surfaces of tables and sideboards on the first floor. “I like to make a lot of still life,” says Olga, “like the woodland scene on the small lounge table.” That faces a larger scene on the marble-topped dining area sideboard with eight miniature trees, a garland of flocked pine cones and gold-and-white ornaments. Peeking out as though
they are looking for one another are two small polar bears. The creation of seasonal vignettes is important to Olga. She aims for organic themes in her tableaus, including floating water-activated, battery-powered floating candles, which offer unique and calming, shimmering glows. She has other picks as well.
SENTIMENTAL THINGS
One item that Olga and her family particularly loved was a small iceskating scene complete with tiny moving figures placed amid a little
village. That had belonged to her late mother-in-law who shared a love of Christmas decorating. Her MIL also collected 56 building miniatures, among them the Empire State Building and Radio City Music Hall, which are proudly displayed. “She wanted me to have them because she knew how much I loved Christmas time,” says Olga. Olga’s love for Christmas, while shared by the whole family, is enthusiastically embraced by her granddaughter, who’s lucky enough to have a special bedroom designated for her.
No time like the PRESENT
HELPING HANDS
The girl’s passion for pinks and purples and fuchsias and golds is clear from the copiously decorated tree to the lilac curtains accented by a simple golden garland with snowflakes and icicles dangling from purple ribbons and illuminated by tiny clear lights. Olga particularly loves the gold-and-sheer purple ribbon that twines through the tree, which was sourced from a boutique in her native Puerto Rico. Her granddaughter is so in love with the tree that it stands year-round.
Olga is well-known in the greater Reading area due to her work in the nonprofit community, including Centro Hispano, the YMCA and the United Way of Berks County. She likes to share her talents with others; she decorates not just her home but those of other friends and family, including her son, Jaime, whose home was featured in the December 2021 issue of Berks County Living. Olga adores the fact that her brother travels far to help with the decorating. “My brother, Jesse Perez, comes up every year from Atlanta to help with the Christmas tree decorations,” she says. “He has done this for many years.” She is a devotee of inspiration delivered via social media platforms like YouTube and Instagram. One of her favorite influencers is Rebecca Robeson, who owns an upscale residential interior design firm in southern California. Robeson hosts a Christmas series, and her innovations and specific themes especially appeal to Olga. During the interview for this article, Olga called up one of Robeson’s shows in which the designer attached seasonable objects to her ceiling. The concept appealed to Olga, but not Ricardo, who didn’t want holes in the ceiling of their new home. Instead, she adapted some other ideas from the host’s sparkling and airy décor. She joked, however, that unlike Robeson, she did not dye her hair to match the accessories. Olga restocks her holiday supplies through after-Christmas sales, enjoying the bargain prices when higher-end retailers slash their prices. She always looks forward to complementing some venerable pieces like her acrylic angels with the new items. But, beyond the decorating, it is the time spent with family and friends during the holidays that is most meaningful.
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BEING TOGETHER
She and Ricardo prefer hosting smaller parties with friends and family to really enjoy personal interaction. “The food and the memories — that’s what I like the most,” she says. “I enjoy the gift of presence.” She loves family cooking sessions in the expansive kitchen where orchids, once belonging to her late mom, still thrive on the windowsills and add to that valued “presence.” “The magic is not in things, it’s in moments,” she says. “We sit around, eat the food we made and watch Christmas movies.” The movies play on the wall-mounted television above the living room fireplace. Her favorite is The Christmas Shoes starring actor Rob Lowe. This 2002 Canadian-American made-for-television film tells the story of a workaholic attorney whose path crosses that of a little boy on Christmas Eve. The lawyer learns the meaning of the season through a complex interaction between two families. “It gets to me every time,” she says with a smile. Olga advises folks to think things through as they decorate, starting with some basics in neutral or metals colors that can be used annually. “Each year, maybe add a splash of another color — red or blue really stand out,” she says. At the couple’s house, Christmas starts to appear as Halloween exits the calendar. The holiday season wraps up on Three Kings Day, January 6, when Olga begins the takedown process. She recommends labeling items in storage bins for easy access when the holiday season approaches. “I keep everything in order, usually by room and color,” she says, “and that’s pretty important — the holidays seem to come around faster every year!”
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berkscountyliving.com | DECEMBER 2025
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WINTER-READY ESSENTIALS PROFILES
PHOTO COURTESY KANTNER’S TIRE SERVICE
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Prepare for
DINING OUT
Celebrate Stylishly 3 Top-Shelf Locales BY MARIAN FRANCES WOLBERS
The year’s end ushers in cold weather, but terrific fine dining establishments go out of their way to make guests feel warm and oh-so-happily rewarded with divine food and drink. Tip: reservations suggested!
R E S TAU R A N
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T A N D F O O D P H OTO S CO U RT E SY B R ID G E I N N P L E A S A N T V I L L E
DECEMBER 2025 | berkscountyliving.com
1 Bridge Inn Pleasantville Cruise along the picturesque countryside to find a true fine dining gem: Bridge Inn Pleasantville, well loved by a large, loyal crowd. Says Dan Sickafus, “It's a warm and cozy place in the winter, especially with all the decorations. There are seasonal food and drink selections that the regular customers know are coming — and they look forward to them. They also like going up to the Martini Lounge for after-dinner drinks and dessert (or dessert drinks).” Enjoy many of these appealing dishes: tenderly cooked Scallops with White Truffle Risotto; Chicken with Apples & Figs; Cranberry-Apple Walnut Pork; Short Rib Ravioli in red-wine demi-glaze with wild mushrooms, gorgonzola, spinach and walnuts; and seasonal vegetarian specials. “For the holidays, one of the main draws (besides the food) is the decorations,” says Sickafus. “White lights and Christmas trees are everywhere. It's a thing for the
locals, and they really look forward to it. We hate taking them down when the season is over. Also, the Martini Lounge is open again on Friday and Saturday nights, instead of just Fridays.” For appetizers, the Butternut Squash with Crab Soup is a “huge hit” as well as the Baked Brie in puff pastry with seasonal fig glaze, fresh fruit and French bread. “For drinks,” he adds, “we have homemade Eggnog — Grandma's recipe — that's divine (pun intended). People that have never had real homemade eggnog are always amazed by how good it is.” Other seasonal drinks: Fig Margaritas, Rudolf Margarita (with cranberries), Thyme Blackberry Mule, Frosted Cranberry Sangria and Chocolate Peppermint Martinis.
3 Covered Bridge Rd., Oley | 610.689.5818 bridgeinnpleasantville.com
RESTAURANT AND FOOD PHOTOS COURTESY DANS AT GREEN HILLS
ILLUSTRATIONS BY OLGA/ADOBE STOCK
2 Dans at Green Hills
RESTAURANT AND FOOD PHOTOS COURTESY WILLOUGHBY’S ON PARK
“This upcoming holiday season is special for us, as we are approaching our 20-year anniversary,” says Monir, owner of Dans. “In December, we do have special holiday menu nights on Christmas Eve and New Year's Eve. We also host many private Christmas parties, both family and business. And all our rooms are decorated, including a Christmas tree out on the patio.” Famous for delectable dishes, impeccable presentation and careful service, Dans knows
that patrons commonly develop a fondness for specific standouts. Says Monir, “Our filet mignon is a favorite among customers, many saying it is the best they have had. Scallops are another customer favorite, as well as both of our soups: mushroom for the fall and winter, and sweet potato soup year-round.” (The latter has won many soup contests.) “Special appetizers for the winter include homemade ravioli and red beet salad, two of our very favorites.”
Guests absolutely love the Christmas decorations. “Some even bring their family from out of state to experience the holiday décor,” Monir says. “As for drinks, we create many special martinis for the winter. Previous winners: Chocolate Espresso Martini, Sugar Cookie Martini and Sea Salt Caramel Martini, which “went over so well we kept it all year!”
2444 Morgantown Rd., Reading 610.777.9611 | dansatgreenhills.com
3 Willoughby’s on Park George Zeppos is crystal clear about the success of this high-end restaurant in Wyomissing: “What makes Willoughby’s on Park special is that we create such a warm, inviting yet energetic atmosphere. Around the holidays, it’s a perfect destination for parties, perfect for those cold winter nights.” Unique seafood specials and mouthwatering steaks dominate. “As the premiere steakhouse in the area,” says Zeppos, “we pride ourselves on having the best steak from Japan to domestic cattle, and our culinary team does a superb job of delivering the most unique steakhouse experience.” Seafood lovers will find superior entrees and classy appetizers. “We have luscious Maine lobsters, fresh oysters and caviar imported daily — as well as the freshest fish you can get.” Since its opening, Willoughby’s has become a local favorite. “Whether you’re at the bar or dining room, we not only have our regular clientele at this time of year, but December is also a time where we can accommodate larger parties with our private dining rooms — from
six to 60 people at a time.” It’s a natural time to reflect on life, cultivate joy and join partners, family, friends and associates at elegant gatherings. The wine list is enticingly, exceptionally deep. Says Zeppos, “We really do pride ourselves on having a unique wine list — probably the largest in the area, with something for everyone, as well as phenomenal craft cocktails and unique specials at the bar.” All desserts are made in house by a dedicated pastry chef. “She prides herself — yes, I’m using that word ‘pride’ again! — on her daily creations,” says Zeppos. “We all look forward to her festive holiday flair at this time of year.” He adds, “At Willoughby’s, our vision has always been energetic elegance and being a premiere fine dining steakhouse in Berks County. It’s just the type of restaurant where we look forward to exceeding your expectations.”
305 N. Park Rd., Wyomissing 610.816.7473 | willoughbysonpark.com
berkscountyliving.com | DECEMBER 2025
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