Berks County Living October 2023

William Blumer Matthew Brushwood Eden Bucher Timothy Dietrich Susanna Fultz Thad Gelsinger Zachary Griffith

Charles Haws Beth Kohl Benjamin Leisawitz Matthew Mayer Sarah McCahon Michael Mixell Keith Mooney

Kevin Moore Frederick Nice Brian Ott Brandon Pack Charles Phillips Troy Rider Rachael Shaw

Latisha Bernard Schuenemann Allen Shollenberger John Speicher Silas Ruiz-Steele EmmaRose Strohl Paul Troisi Gregory Young

PRESIDENT/CEO

Paul Prass

VICE PRESIDENT/COO

Lisa Prass PUBLISHER

Robyn L. Jones

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Nikki M. Murry

ART DIRECTOR

Elaine Wyborski

GRAPHIC DESIGNERS

Kaylie Haskins

Thomas Körp

EDITORIAL ASSISTANT

Dylan Sokolvich

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Heather Baver

Courtney Ell

Jon Fassnacht

Sarah Matarella

Marian Frances Wolbers

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Tania Colamarino

Ama Photography

Lauren Adele

Little Photography

John A. Secoges Secoges Photographics

ACCOUNT REPRESENTATIVES

Elizabeth Beebe

Denise Conlin

Sue Ottenheimer

Susie Smith

Sara Woodward

ACCOUNTING

Donna Bachman

Sarah Varano

CIRCULATION MANAGER

Andrea Karges

COPY EDITOR

Veloie Mastrocola

how to contact us

EDITO RIAL: 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 2023. 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.

Living It Up

Just because we reach our “senior” years, it doesn’t mean we have to stop having fun. In fact, I might argue some seniors I know are enjoying life a bit more than I am (note: I have a teenage son). In this month’s senior living issue, we’re on a mission to prove just that.

On page 23, check out all of the activities older people in our area are enjoying at their retirement communities. Think: boxing, attending puppy weddings and Happy Hours, competing in Senior Olympics, performing original skits, playing pickleball and so much more.

In this month’s issue we also celebrate family traditions, highlighting a couple of wonderful ones carried out by two local families. Turn to page 37 and read on. It’s sure to bring a smile.

With October being well into the fall season, it’s also apple time. Whether you like to pick them, smell them, eat them or drink them, we’ve got a great apple round-up of sorts for you in our Check It section on page 11.

Finally, on page 40, we aim to inspire you to bring back vintage decorative accents to your home by shopping at local arts and antiques shops. From glass knobs and stoneware crocks to unique stitching pieces and redware pottery, if you get to exploring, you’re sure to find something that strikes your fancy.

Cheers!

NIKKI M. MURRY

NMurry@BerksCountyLiving.com She/Her/Hers Editor-in-Chief

STAFF SPEAKS

What is your favorite thing about fall?

“I love all the fall décor… both inside and outside!”

Robyn L. Jones, publisher

“It’s hoodie season. I can comfortably walk my dog in sweats, and it’s not snowing yet.”

Nikki M. Murry, editor

“My favorite thing about fall is sitting by a bonfire with friends, roasting marshmallows and cooking lil’ smokies (small hot dogs).”

Elizabeth Beebe account executive

“Seeing the leaves change color. I had a great aunt in California that came east every fall to see the leaves change.”

Susie Smith, account executive

ONE MORE THING

Do you live in Berks and were you married in 2023? If so, we may want to feature your wedding in our January issue! Reach out to bcleditor@berkscountyliving.com for more info!

“Watching the tree leaves turn from bright green to all different shades of fall. You can feel fall in the air once they start turning colors!”

Sara Woodward account executive

“Fall is my favorite season! To sum it up into one word: EVERYTHING!”

Whip Up Delicious Recipes. They’re healthy, too! Browse Calm Eats by Wyomissing resident Daniela Modesto in our blog section.

Daytime Help. For caregivers of aging adults who might need a break and seniors looking to switch up their routine, adult daycare may be an option. Check out the feature in our Web Exclusives section.

THIS MONTH ON BERKSCOUNTYLIVING.COM 1. 2. 3.

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 the homepage icon.

EXPLORE WITH US.

Follow along on Instagram as we share delicious foods and shopping discoveries, attend events and more.

Just search BCLMag.

SECRET INGREDIENT.

It’s beer! Check out our “Beer-Related Recipes” Pinterest board for nearly 50 recipes that call for beer. Search Berks County Living Magazine.

FACEBOOK FOLLOW. Facebook Follow. Learn more about Deerfoot Farm, featured in our Berks Bits section at facebook.com/ DeerfootBlueberries.

FACEBOOK FOLLOW. Learn more about Fox’s Country Tea House, featured in our Berks Bits section at facebook.com/ MakeTimeForTea.

Kaylie Haskins graphic designer

ON THE COVER

Enjoy everything apple this fall and eight finds we've discovered in Berks on page 11.

PHOTO BY TANIA COLAMARINO, AMA PHOTOGRAPHY | MAKEUP BY THERESA VIOLETTE

Spas

Couples, families, friends, athletes and anyone in need of therapeutic relief can benefit from spas and hot tubs. They’re easy to clean, quick to heat, operationally efficient and ideal for small backyards. Even better, spas and hot tubs are a yearround pleasure to enjoy. State-of-the-art features such

waterfalls and spectacular LED lighting make

hot tub the hot place-to-be.

READING PUBLIC MUSEUM OFFERS SENIOR SERIES

Nestled in the heart of Berks County, the Reading Public Museum is home to permanent and visiting exhibitions, a planetarium and a 25-acre arboretum filled with local plant life. Despite The Museum’s appeal, it can be difficult for older adult and seniors to visit, whether it be scheduling trouble or concerns with driving after dark. That's why, in 2013, Reading Public Museum began to create and host educational opportunities for seniors. “When a visitor attends one of our Senior Series programs, they can expect a lecture from the museum curator, a staff member, documentary screenings or even a visit from an exhibiting artist,” says Wendy Koller, Director of Education. Lectures are held the fourth Friday of every month at 1pm and allow visitors to experience all The Museum has to offer. The monthly Senior Series is free with museum admission and free for members thanks to this year’s sponsor, the Berks County Area Agency on Aging. It's open to anyone, making for a fun and educational afternoon to be spent with friends and family. For more info visit readingpublicmuseum.org.

– DYLAN SOKOLVICH

IT’S SPOOKY SEASON!

Looking for something to do outside of trick-or-treating and costume parties? The Kutztown Rotary Club has you covered with its Kutztown Ghost Tour. Here’s what you need to know…

1 . Walking Tour.

The historical, spooky walking tour starts and ends at the Kutztown Tavern, spanning about 1.3 miles. Dates are Oct. 20 & 21, 6:30-8:45pm, rain or shine. Tickets must be purchased in advance and are $22. Sales end Oct. 18 at 10pm.

CarePatrol of Reading & Berks Aims to Help

Caring for an aging loved one can be difficult, especially when you don’t know what resources exist. But with CarePatrol’s help, you can rest easy knowing your loved one will receive the help they need in a safe and appropriate environment. CarePatrol is the nation’s most expansive and trusted senior living placement organization with more than 170+ Certified Senior Advisors (CSA), including representation in Berks County. “We run the whole gamut of anything that a family might need to make sure things are in order, and when the time comes, for them to leave their home and go into senior care,” says Kirk Campfield, local CSA for the Reading and Berks County area. The services provided by CarePatrol and Campfield are always at no cost, making it easier and affordable to make the call. Working directly with you and your loved one, CarePatrol can help to find assisted living, independent living, in-home care, memory care and nursing home assistance. “What makes our service special is that we actually know these communities,” says Campfield. “We know what’s going on care-wise, price-wise, availability-wise, etc.” Whatever the needs of you and your loved one, CarePatrol and its CSAs are in your neighborhood to help. For more info call 610.607.7006 or visit carepatrol.com –

DYLAN SOKOLVICH

VISIT THIS COZY SPOT IN WOMELSDORF

Nothing beats a warm cup of tea on an autumn evening, especially when it's spent alongside loved ones. At Fox’s Country Tea House, you can experience that same warmth. When Theresa Fox opened her business in April of 2021, she knew she didn’t want to create just another English-style tea room. Instead, she started with what she knew best: creating a country, home-cooking feel to elevate her tea room into something unique for Berks County. “I’m just a homegrown cook, you know, nothing special, but what I offer is all handmade, and it gives people a place to come to where they can talk,” says Fox. From homemade soups and sandwiches to specialty teas and sweet desserts, the tea house has everything you’re looking for in a peaceful afternoon retreat. For something even more unique, Fox’s Country Tea House offers monthly events, ranging from visits from witches and wizards to live entertainment by Elvis Presley and Frank Sinatra impersonators. Whether you’re looking to enjoy a “chocolate frog” tea or an Elvis-inspired peanut butter and banana scone, Fox’s Country Tea House is a delightful escape from the bustle of everyday life. Visit at 4023 Conrad Weiser Parkway, Womelsdorf; call 215.359.5839 or head to foxcountryteahouse.com. – DYLAN SOKOLVICH

2 . Ghost Hosts.

Guides and storytellers will be dressed in period costume. Storytellers will greet participants at each stop and relay the ghost tales pertinent to the location. Between stops, guides will entertain ticket holders with frightful and historical tidbits related to Kutztown.

3. Bonus Fun.

In addition to the tour, booths will be set up at the registration area that include demonstrations on ghost hunting and tarot card reading.

For more info and tickets visit eventbrite.com/e/kutztownghost-tour-friday-october20-tickets-689475217937?aff= BerksLivingCalendarEvent.

One More Thing Ride & View Hex Signs

If you’re a biking or hex sign enthusiast, you may want to join in the Dutch Hex Sign Bike Tour, set for Oct. 16 take off from the Pennsylvania German Cultural Heritage Center in Kutztown. For more info visit whereandwhen.com/events/ dutch-hex-sign-bike-tour/.

HOW TO PRACTICE Cyber Security

BY DYLAN SOKOLOVICH

Being online opens up a world of possibilities, allowing you to connect with friends and family, to stay up to date with current events, to shop, to manage finances, to play games and so much more. But with so much to do, there is inevitably going to be some risk, especially for seniors navigating new technology.

Just as you lock your door at night or fasten your seatbelt when driving, it’s important to take precautions to remain safe on the Internet.

CREATE STRONG PASSWORDS

Passwords are your first line of defense against malicious attacks. Despite their importance, older adults are much less likely to use passwords on devices and applications.

According to Mark Shearer, proprietor of Shearer Technical in West Reading, a strong password should range from 15 to 20 characters in length, and he discourages people from using terms that are too familiar, such as their dog’s or wife’s name. Additionally, a strong password includes an assortment of letters, numbers and symbols.

Likewise, password managers are a smart choice for seniors as they generate new, random

passwords for all visited sites and store these credentials in a secure, virtual vault. Most password managers also tell their users whether an existing password is weak, if it’s being reused or if it has been found in a data breach.

SECURE ACCOUNT ACCESS

Though a strong password can keep your device and accounts better protected, this doesn’t mean a cybercriminal can’t gain access to your information. Adding multi-factor authentication to accounts can provide another layer of protection.

Multi-factor authentication is easier than ever with many apps and websites offering free options to secure your information.

Often, this will include a random, secure code sent to your device to verify it’s you trying to access your account, not just someone with your password.

THINK BEFORE YOU ACT

Links in emails, text messages, social media posts and online advertisements are some of the easiest ways for people with malicious intent to access your sensitive information. It’s important to be wary of clicking on suspicious links or downloading anything that comes from a stranger.

Shearer says this is often the easiest way for cybercriminals to gain access to your computer. “You lock your doors every night, and you don’t just one day decide to let a stranger in and do whatever they want. And that’s really what happens when you let others gain access to your computer,” explains Shearer.

INSTALL SECURITY SOFTWARE

Depending on where you purchased your device, you may already have security software downloaded. Every device sold by Shearer Technical, for instance, comes preinstalled with both Trend Micro and Malwarebytes, trusted cybersecurity software. If your device doesn’t have such software installed, it may be necessary to look into this extra line of security.

ADJUST BROWSER SETTINGS & SECURE WEBSITES

Whether it's Google Chrome, Firefox, Safari or any other reputable browser, settings can be changed to ensure optimum security. These menus are often found in the upper-right-hand corner of a browser, and they’re usually easy to navigate. Even just clearing your browsing history at the end of each session can prevent others from accessing a trail of sensitive data.

Another factor of cyber security is safe web browsing, but it’s often overlooked by seniors and even tech-savvy individuals. “Recognizing a secure website from an unsecured website is as easy as looking at the hyperlink,” says Shearer. “If it reads https, the site is more than likely safe, but if it reads http (without the ‘s’), it is not.” A lock symbol can also serve as a telltale sign that a website is safe to browse.

CONSIDER SEEKING SUPPORT

If you’re a senior or someone unfamiliar with technology, you shouldn’t be embarrassed to seek out a trusted professional for help. Likewise, if you’re a caregiver, it may be important to check that your loved one is remaining safe online.

“When educating an older adult about cybersecurity, it’s important to be compassionate and sympathetic,” says Shearer. “You have to remember that most seniors didn’t grow up with this kind of complicated technology.” He explains that breaking technology down and using analogies is the easiest way to teach someone about cyber safety.

Whether you’re new to technology or a self-proclaimed expert, practicing cyber safety is a crucial part of staying safe online. By following these tips, you’ll be well on your way to browsing the web without feeling that your security may be at risk of being compromised.

Shearer Technical Computer Consultants

610.375.1676 | shearertech.com

Matthew Bond

FOUNDER & PRESIDENT, STERLING LIFE SOLUTIONS

BY SARAH MATARELLA

PHOTO BY JOHN A. SECOGES, SECOGES PHOTOGRAPHICS

From grieving to goodwill, Matthew “Matt” Bond turned his personal journey with the senior moving industry and loss into a full-fledged senior moving management company to help others relieve some of the overlooked, impending stressors often attached to moving a loved one after he and his family faced the reality firsthand.

Q:What was the catalyst for becoming the founder & president of Sterling Life Solutions?

My father passed in 2020, and what it left me, my brother and my sister was a space where we’re grieving, and we must deal with all this stuff that they don’t write a book for or teach you about in school. You’re just left with it. It was frustrating; it was heartbreaking. I remember sitting on my father’s living room floor with my brother and sister, looking through documents and pictures, and I said, ‘There has to be a better way, right?’ Soon after that, a good friend of mine who works in the senior living industry said she was frustrated because their clients were moving into a community and they had nobody to do these things, and it was an ‘ah-ha’ moment.

Q: What ultimately sealed the deal to make this your next business venture?

Over the years, business opportunities were brought to me, but they just weren’t close to the heart. Something about this industry just fueled the fire within me. I started conducting market research. I started speaking with seniors that went through the process, and I realized we needed to create a company that eliminates all the stress from them, not bits and pieces, but that we could just come in and they would know that we would take it from there.

Q: How did you make your vision come to life?

I can’t say enough about the team members of Sterling and how much they believe in this as well. We built this not just for the seniors, but for their families, too. It really is a one-stop shop. When a senior or their family thinks about the next steps in their life or the transition, they can call us. We will have a plan, and we will execute the plan. We don’t subcontract out to anybody like most other senior move

management companies. We do everything in-house. Our trained and vetted employees handle everything so they [our clients] can feel at ease knowing who’s in mom’s house.

Q: What do you do in your free time when you are not in business mode?

I have three children, twin sons and a daughter: Nathaniel, Andrew and Abigail. We love paddleboarding, auto racing, going to races together and spending time outside. I also have two Newfoundland dogs, Mathias and Orso, and I love spending time taking them on hikes and walks. My de-stressing point is definitely being out in Mother Nature.

Q:How can Berks County get involved with Sterling Life Solutions? Having Berks County get behind the senior movement and come out to events we partake in or the seminars we put on for communities like The Highlands at Wyomissing is very close to my heart. We owe a lot to this generation. They are amazing people, and when you start to get close to this and peel the layers of the generation back, you see everything we as a community sometimes forget about. I would sooner sit down with an 80-yearold than someone my age. They have so much knowledge and enthusiasm, and I just enjoy them.

LEARN MORE

Moving a loved one? Call 484.220.3743 to set up a free consultation or visit sterlinglifesolutions.com/ moving-resources for tips and resources.

Lighten the load. Join Sterling Life Solutions on Oct. 19 for the “Transform Your Home for Autumn Holidays, Embrace the Spirit and Banish the Clutter” event.

Apple-Centric Items

BY NIKKI M. MURRY

Fall makes us think of apples! If you’re a fan of the tree-grown fruit, here are some local finds you may enjoy…

1. Picking your own. A fun activity for the whole family, enjoy picking your own apples at Weaver’s Orchard in Morgantown. October rounds out the apple picking month, so be sure not to delay. Weaver’s Orchard is home to 30 varieties. weaversorchard.com

2. Baked delight. Head to Black Buggy Baking Company in Oley, owned by Felicia Fisher, for a one-of-akind apple pie baked with love. As she says, “I bake people happy.”

The Black Buggy Baking Company

610.914.9090

3. Bright cider life. Visit Frecon Farms in Boyertown for an assortment of ciders featuring various apple varieties. From dry and semi-sweet to sweet and even Cidre Cherry, there’s something for every taste preference. freconfarms.com

4. Core be gone. Make coring and slicing your apple easy-peasy with the popular Apple Wedger tool from Pampered Chef. Our publisher, Robyn Jones, is a big fan. pamperedchef.com

5. All dressed up. Grab a cute apple-print dress for the youngster in your life, crafted by Buttons & Clover, featured at The Mint Leaf in Leesport. The hard part is choosing between the adorable fashions. $60. themintleafshop.com

6. A good kind of bad. Visit Leo Design Gallery in Wyomissing for a candle with an upscale take on the traditional apple spice fragrance. The Bad Apple candle features a mouthwatering, boozy scent with top notes of apple, cinnamon and a hint of orange. Bourbon and butter are the heart of the candle that’s perfect for fall. leodesigngallery.com

7. Adults only. Why not go out for an apple cocktail? Head to Salute Ristorante Italiano in Sinking Spring to enjoy an Apple Martini or Apple Sangria. The martini features a perfect blend of rich caramel and crispness from the apple. Don’t miss ‘Tini Tuesday. Every Tuesday the restaurant offers $5 off its famous ‘Tini shakers. saluteristorante.com

8. BBQ delight. Head to the bottle shop at Folino Estate Winery in Kutztown for this seasonally inspired Cabernet and Apple Barbecue Sauce from small batch retailer Vintner’s Kitchen and discover sweet and savory goodness. folinoestate.com

SWEET STREET DESSERTS A COMMUNITY STAPLE

BY BELL MEDIA GROUP & GRCA MARKETING TEAM

PHOTO BY LAUREN ADELE LITTLE PHOTOGRAPHY

Editor’s note: The following story was written as a part of the GRCA member storytelling campaign. To read the entire story behind Sweet Street Desserts, scan the included Flowcode.

Almost every Reading native has a story about Sweet Street Desserts: a birthday cake that was the best gastronomic experience of their 10-year-old life or a baseball practice that ended with an exquisite tray of cookies brought by a parent who just happened to be a Sweet Street employee. But many locals may not realize that Sweet Street has become the world’s top-rated dessert leader in both taste and appearance with concoctions that delight first-class flyers and grace Michelin-star restaurant tables around the globe. Still owned and operated by its original

founder, Sandy Solmon, Sweet Street Desserts is a gem hiding in plain sight.

In 1979, in Reading, Solmon started baking classic American cookies in a two-bay garage. Tirelessly testing recipes and ingredients, she struck the perfect balance: a harmonization of flavor, texture and the elusive dimension of artfulness that separates good cookies from great ones. As her cookies caught on and the following for her small production grew, Sandy’s dessert portfolio expanded, and Sweet Street Desserts was born.

Today, Sweet Street is the leading innovator in the dessert

industry. The company is still owned and operated by Sandy and headquartered in Reading, where Sandy is also the head of research and development, leading a team of like-minded, passionate researchers and recipe developers who now bake for restaurants around the globe.

Amazed by the power of good food shared, Sandy’s collaborative experiences inspired her to open Café Sweet Street. As you enter, you are warmly greeted with the aroma of freshly baked croissants, Sandy’s legendary cookies (of course), and other classics such as cheesecakes, towering chocolate cakes, brownies, bars, snacks and fresh cups of pourover coffee. The café features made-from-scratch lunches from pure, locally sourced ingredients.

Throughout the years, Sweet Street challenged itself, over and over again, to innovate every aspect of its operational model, from its research and development endeavors to its ingredient sourcing and production processes. The fearless pursuit of excellence has been a guiding light for Sandy and her team on their journey to the top of the dessert industry.

Upcoming Event

Holiday Destinations

✪ CHRISTMAS TIME in Branson, MO

NOVEMBER 11–17 (7 days), 10 meals, 7 holiday shows, tours

✪ CHRISTMAS TIME in Nashville, TN

NOVEMBER 26–30 (5 days), incl. 2 nights at Gaylord Opryland Hotel,

HOLLY DOLLY CHRISTMAS in the Great Smoky Mountains of Tennessee

“MIRACLE OF CHRISTMAS” at Sight & Sound Theatre in Lancaster, PA

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

WHAT TO DO & WHERE TO GO

COMPILED BY DYLAN SOKOLOVICH

15 Reading Hospital Road Run

1

BERKS CULTURAL DIVERSITY FESTIVAL

Celebrate your own culture and heritage or help embrace that of others at the Berks Cultural Diversity Festival! The festival is meant to recognize diversity and help create greater unity through international cuisine, dance, poetry, music and much more. The day promises to be family-friendly with games, food trucks, cultural performances, vendors and educational opportunities to help transform Berks County into a place where people can celebrate their heritage with pride. For more info visit bringthechange.net.

Noon-6pm | City Park | Reading

6-15

Clue is most often recognized as the iconic Hasbro board game, but its popularity also led to a 1985 film and a play adaptation. The story begins mysteriously enough, with six strange guests arriving at a remote mansion for a dinner party, but when the host turns up dead, they all become suspects. The comedy whodunit is hilarious and compelling, perfect for newcomers or cult fans looking for an unrepeatable performance of an established classic. For more info or tickets visit genesiusdifference.org.

Opening times vary

Genesius Theatre | Reading

The 2023 Reading Hospital Road Run includes a half-marathon and 5K with proceeds supporting Reading Hospital’s promise of “Advancing Health. Transforming Lives.” Both the half-marathon and 5K will take novice and avid runners through fast and scenic roadways around Reading Hospital in West Reading and through surrounding neighborhoods. For more info or to register visit rhroadrun.com.

8am-1:30pm | Scottish Rite Cathedral West Reading

9 th Annual

PUMPKIN PALOOZA

Pumpkin Palooza is a free event featuring an expansive patch of hundreds of hand-blown glass pumpkins, activities for kids, cider tastings, live music, food trucks, and even a chance to launch the gourd slingshot. Visitors can also learn directly from GoggleWorks artists as they make their very own pumpkins from hot glass, fused glass, flameworking and metals. For more info or to register for a class visit goggleworks.org.

Noon-3pm | GoggleWorks Center for the Arts | Reading

ARTISAN CHEESE & WINE PAIRING WEEKENDS

The Artisan Cheese & Wine Pairing Weekend is the perfect opportunity to find the perfect combination of cheese and wine you’ll be enjoying all season long. Spend a fall weekend visiting 11 wineries throughout Berks and taste almost two dozen styles of cheeses paired with a vast array of expertly selected local wines. For more info or tickets visit berkscountywinetrail.com.

Noon-5pm | Berks County Wine Trail

7 & 8, 14 & 15 18 8

Joe Conklin & THE CITY RHYTHM ORCHESTRA

Celebrated Philadelphia dance band, The City Rhythm Orchestra, joins forces with comedic legend Joe Conklin for a night of music and laughs. In a salute to Philadelphia sports teams and their fans, Conklin takes his audience on a journey featuring his spot-on celebrity impressions, an 8-piece swing-worthy orchestra and a cast of memorable singers. For more info or tickets visit millercenter.racc.edu.

7:30pm | Miller Center for the Arts | Reading

CONCERTS & NIGHTLIFE

Oct. 14

BERKS SINFONIETTA PRESENTS BEETHOVEN’S NINTH

Enjoy Beethoven’s Symphony No. 9, Choral, as performed by Berks Sinfonietta in collaboration with Vox Philia Chamber Choir, singers and soloists from across the region. For more info visit berkssinfonietta.org.

7:30pm | Immanuel United Church of Christ Shillington

FESTIVALS

Sept. 27-Oct. 1

READING LIEDERKRANZ OKTOBERFEST

Oktoberfest at the Reading Liederkranz is the largest in the area, spanning five days and featuring fun, food and music for everyone. The festival offers a variety of food and drink, from delicious sausages and freshly baked pretzels to refreshing German beer. Once your appetite has been satisfied, dance to traditional German tunes and enjoy performances by local bands. For more info or tickets visit readingliederkranz.com.

Times vary | Reading Liederkranz | Reading

Oct. 4

BERKS ENCORE SENIOR EXPO

At this free event, enjoy a health fair, magic by Matty Whipple, a tribute to Elvis by Jeff Krick, Sr., the music of Motown by Charles Lee, a visitor bag giveaway, a hat giveaway, live radio broadcast by WEEU 830-AM and more. For more info visit berksencore.org/ events/senior-expo.

9am-2pm | FirstEnergy Stadium | Reading

Oct. 7 & 8

HAY CREEK APPLE FESTIVAL

As the weather becomes cooler and the leaves begin to fall, the start of autumn is also the peak of apple harvesting time. Hay Creek Apple Harvest Festival offers a wonderful day of great family fun at the historic Joanna Furnace in Morgantown. Specialty apple treats are aplenty, including fresh cider, fritters, pies, crisps, pancakes, dumplings and more. Families can also enjoy scarecrow building, pumpkin painting and pony rides or shop with 100+ flea market vendors. For more info visit haycreek.org.

Sat: 7am-5pm, Sun: 7am-3pm Joanna Furnace | Morgantown

ReadingFilm FEST

• Over 55 indie films, gala, special guests, and more!

• Open to the public

Goggleworks & IMAX Theatres

ReadingFilmFEST.Org

2023-2024 SEASON

Performing Artists Series

All performances at 7:30 pm

Mark Morris Dance Group

Wednesday, October 11, 2023

New York Gilbert and Sullivan Players

Pirates of Penzance

Thursday, November 9, 2023

Celtic Thunder’s Emmet Cahill & Celtic Woman’s Chloë Agnew

Tuesday, February 13, 2024

Family Series

All performances at 2:00 pm

The Okee Dokee Brothers

Sunday, November 19, 2023

Janet’s Planet

Sunday, February 4, 2024 ... And More!

610-683-4092

www.KutztownPresents.org

Hayrides,

Pick-Your-Own

THIS MONTH

Oct. 26-29

READING FILM FEST 2023

Experience a weekend of independent films and filmmakers from around the globe right in Reading. Events include film viewings, workshops and more. For complete info visit readingfilmfest.com.

Event times & locations vary

HISTORICAL

Oct. 22

DANIEL BOONE HERITAGE DAY

The living history event includes a variety of century demonstrations, trades and hands-on activities. Visitors also have the opportunity to tour the first-floor rooms of the Boone House and learn about the families who lived there. Heritage Day also offers the unique opportunity to tour the three-room Bertolet Log House. For more info visit thedanielboonehomestead.org.

Noon-4pm | Daniel Boone Homestead | Birdsboro

SPORTS

Oct. 28 & 29

READING ROYALS

Take to the stands and cheer on the Reading Royals as they go up against the Trois-Rivière Lions in some of their first games of the season. For more info or tickets visit royalshockey.com.

Start times vary | Santander Arena | Reading

THEATER & DANCE

Oct. 11

MARK MORRIS DANCE GROUP

The work of Mark Morris has been acclaimed for its craftsmanship, ingenuity and eclectic musical accompaniments. This repertory performance is making its way to Berks County, including pieces from Morris’s most recent works, such as Pepperland and The Look of Love. The Mark Morris Dance Group will also be famously accompanied by The Music Ensemble, carefully crafting a must-see performance for fans of both dance and music. For more info or tickets visit kutztownpresents.org. 7:30pm

Oct. 13

CALPULLI MEXICAN DANCE COMPANY’S DIA DE LOS MUERTOS

Using both folk and classical music as well as dance, Calpulli Mexican Dance Company’s Dia De Los Muertos tells the beautiful and colorful story of love that bridges the boundary between the living and the departed. Following a loving couple that is seemingly separated forever, a young woman must return from Mictlán, the underworld of Aztec mythology, for one last dance with her lover. For more info or tickets visit millercenter.racc.edu.

7:30pm | Miller Center for the Arts | Reading

Oct. 20

A BRONX TALE STARRING CHAZZ PALMINTERI

A Bronx Tale is the coming-of-age story of Calogero Anello, a young New Yorker caught by the temptations of organized crime in his neighborhood and the values of his hardworking father. The autobiographical

piece sees Chazz Palminteri bring each of the 18 characters to life, telling a bruising childhood story that quickly gained popularity. Now, 35 years later, Palminteri continues to take the stage to tell this story for a oncein-a-lifetime show. For more info or tickets visit santander-arena.com.

7:30pm | Santander Performing Arts Center | Reading

WINE Oct. 14

8TH ANNUAL CARSONIA CRAFT BEER AND WINE AMUSEMENT

A 700-participant benefit tasting event for ages 21+. Food and wine/beer vendors will be on hand. For more details and tickets visit carsoniabeerfest.org.

1-4pm | Antietam Valley Recreation & Community Center at Historic Carsonia Park | Reading

Berks County Area Agency on Aging

633 Court St., 8th Floor County Services Center, Reading 610.478.6500 | berksaging.org

Berks County Area Agency on Aging is the gateway to aging programs and supports. We offer information on community resources, health and wellness programs, senior community centers, in-home services and access to legal assistance, care management, caregiver support services, Ombudsman (advocates for consumers in longterm care facilities) and elder abuse protection.

• Visit amazing stops!

• Enjoy gifts, games, drawings, demos

• Enter to win over great prizes!

• Receive a coupon from each stop!

TICKETS $11 each 717-721-9409

bestkeptsecretstour.com

All

BY HEATHER BAVER

Ages FASHION

Shake up your wardrobe by tapping into the wisdom of your elders. They’ve seen trends come, go, and come back again, and they have the experience to know fashion is all about having fun and expressing yourself. Get inspired with two amazing outfits featuring From The Heart Consignment Shop’s elegant, sustainable style.

TAILORED Chic

Silver accents create a cohesive theme in an outfit with a stylish silhouette. For starters, Darlene’s outfit combines a versatile, softtextured tank top with slim-fitting black pants. This flattering cut is embellished with silver studs outlining the front pockets, hems and cuts above the ankles. Black pointy-toed pumps add height and blend in seamlessly. A faux leather blazer enhances the outfit with a pop of deep teal that complements her glasses. The jacket’s tailored lines add elegance, and the zip details give it a touch of moto-jacket style for a rock-star look.

Eye-catching accessories heighten the outfit’s style. A statement necklace works perfectly with the v-necked top and features textured discs woven together with multiple delicate chains. This combines effortlessly with a bold pair of sterling silver earrings. With their intricate design and larger size, these earrings create a dramatic effect.

To complete the outfit, a black fedora adds striking sophistication. Besides keeping her warm in cooler temps, the hat draws attention to the entire look and pulls it all together. This timeless topper is enhanced by a classic leopard-print band. For a finishing touch, a black leather handbag repeats the textural and silver details throughout the rest of the outfit.

1. Fedora NWT, $19.95

2. Sterling Silver Pierced Earrings, $89.99

3. Insight New York Faux Leather Blazer NWT, Size 6, $75.99 (retail: $169.95)

4. Muse Tank Top NWT, Size 6, $39.99 (retail: $224)

5. Tribal Black Jeans NWT, Size 8, $39.12 (retail: $86.95)

6. Necklace, $14.95

7. Leather Handbag, $55.99

Darlene Bogert 80, Alburtis

FAVORITE Additions

Elevate a go-to favorite by using it as the foundation to create a whole new outfit. Denise started with pants she loved and paired them with a matching black tank top. The square neckline is ideal for showcasing this dynamic necklace. Three strands of caramel-colored beads in various sizes match harmoniously with the shiny brown stones on the earrings. Their dangle style adds glamour to the outfit, with gold hoops that catch the light with every move and highlight her smile.

To add vibrant color into the mix, the neutral shirt and pants are paired with a jacket by UbU. Golden yellow, azure blue and teal blend into gray and black in a dramatic pattern. Convenient pockets are perfect for keeping her hands warm on cool fall days. This jacket is also reversible to allow for two

To complete the outfit, a Brahmin designer bag is a chic way to carry all your necessities. This bag contains pockets galore, including jewelry pockets to keep precious items secure. Made of long-lasting leather, the color complements the necklace and earrings, and the croc-embossed design adds eye-catching texture. It can be carried by the handles or worn as a crossbody by using the detachable strap.

1. Triple Strand Necklace, $12.99

2. Brahmin “Small Caroline” Leather Handbag with Detachable Long Strap, $249.99

3. Clip Earrings, $8.99

4. Anthony Tank Top, Size 2X, $14.99

5. UbU Reversible Jacket NWT, Size XL, $76.99 (retail: $164.95)

FROM THE HEART CONSIGNMENT SHOP

4600 Penn Avenue Sinking Spring | 484.509.4441 fromtheheartconsignment.com

Denise Hasson 65, Sinking Spring

Texture Curl Bar

723 Penn Avenue, West Reading 610.396.5189

texturecurlbar.com

Texture Curl Bar was founded by a curly girl for curly girls. We aim to offer the best services and products, and to bring your curls to their healthiest and most beautiful state. Our curly hair experts have been trained by world class curly hair artists to offer curly cuts, color services, protective styles and more. Book with us and experience the best curls you’ll ever have! All textures welcome!

Tina’s Salon & Day Spa

404 Penn Avenue, West Reading 610.374.5991 | gototinas.com

Too often, the demands of the day-to-day events consume us and we forget to take time for ourselves. At Tina’s Salon & Day Spa, we pride ourselves on offering the highest-quality products and services with a staff of highly trained, professional stylists. Our fullservice salon and day spa offers customized hair, nail, makeup, skincare, lashes, spray tan and spa services tailored to you. Come experience the difference!

Salon Aspire LLC

341 W. Main St., Birdsboro 610.575.2804 | salonaspire.net

Salon Aspire, LLC is a hair and beauty salon that provides exceptional services and a warm atmosphere where clients can relax and escape the stresses of everyday life. We make it our goal to help clients feel confident and beautiful. We also offer a full line of high-quality professional products to help each guest achieve their personalized style at home.

Lords & Ladies Salon and Medical Spa

4 locations in Berks and 3 locations in Montgomery County 1.844.725.6655 | llsalons.com

Since 1983, Lords & Ladies Salon and Medical Spa has been the one-stop-shop for all things hair, nails and skin care. Featuring extensive services, professional products, a beautiful environment and exceptional care, L&L is a destination like no other. L&L beauty professionals enjoy many benefits, including lifelong education and limitless career potential. Visit L&L and see for yourself!

Reading Dermatology Associates

3317 Penn Avenue, West Lawn 610.750.7891 | readingderm.com

Amy Hendrix, CRNP at Reading Dermatology, and her staff of skin care experts develop medicallydriven custom skin care plans that deliver results that help make you look and feel amazing! There’s a full array of cutting-edge treatments available at Reading Dermatology’s newly expanded cosmetic center in West Lawn. Treatments include Botox, filler, chemical peels, Hydrafacial ®, Medi-infusion, Microneedling, IV therapy, lasers and more.

United Artists Salon & Spa

299 Penn Avenue, West Reading 610.376.8481 | unitedartistssalon.com

The United Artists team is highly experienced and passionate about creating looks that make you feel your best. We provide professional products and hair care recommendations to create your salon look at home. Looking for hair extensions, hair wefts or wigs? Call for a complimentary consultation. New guests are always welcome. Come join us. We truly love what we do!

Mocktails for Sober October 5

BY HEATHER BAVER

No matter your age or situation, mocktails are an inclusive beverage that everyone can enjoy. Exciting, fun and colorful, these alcohol-free drinks are perfect for a night out and participating in Sober October. Check out five enticing options from local hotspots for a tasty sip of nonalcoholic merriment.

4 5 2 3 1

Dessert in a Glass.

Celebrate autumn by sipping your favorite flavors of the season. This scrumptious beverage features apple juice, fall-spiced simple syrup, pumpkin pie flavoring and heavy cream. For a finishing touch, it’s topped with whipped cream and dusted with cinnamon sugar. Relax with friends while you relish the warm spices.

You’re My Cinnamon Apple, $7.50, Building 24 Kitchen and Bar, 1109 Bern Rd., Wyomissing 610.375.2700 ext. 221 workswyomissing.com/ building-24

Fruit Fantasy.

Savor a delicious take on sangria with all the fruit and none of the alcohol. This mocktail is a citrus lover’s delight with pomegranate, orange juice, lemon and lime combined with orange and simple syrups for a burst of sweetness. With its cheerful color and fruity garnish, it’s party ready.

Naked Sangria, $8, Craft 2700 at Freymoyer's, 2700 Kutztown Rd., Reading | 610.463.3233 craft2700.com

Refresh-Mint.

With their tantalizing blend of mint and lime, mojitos make a perfect mocktail. This version takes classic ingredients and muddles them in rose syrup for a sweet, slightly tart flavor. Sparkling grapefruit soda and a hint of club soda add enhanced citrus taste and effervescence to this bubbly beverage.

Grapefruit Rose Mojito Mocktail, $6, The PourHouse American Grille, 3341 Pricetown Rd., Fleetwood | 484.575.7097 pourhouseamericangrille.com

Tropical Paradise.

Get that vacation feeling with a drink infused with island flavors. This mocktail is a delicious blend of pineapple juice, coconut purée, hibiscus syrup and egg white. Hibiscus petals make a fun and festive garnish on top. Order a round for the whole family and celebrate an evening out together.

Dealer’s Choice, non-alcoholic cocktail, $7, Go Fish! Seafood Restaurant & Sushi Bar, 301 S. Hull St., Sinking Spring | 610.376.6446 gofishseafood.com

Sweet Nostalgia.

Travel back to Saturdays on the couch with your favorite cartoons and a bowl of sweet cereal. Made with vanilla almond milk and warm Cinnamon Toast Crunch syrup, this delightful beverage will transport you without a time machine. Sip, slurp and use the spoon to munch the crunchy cereal garnish.

Saturday Morning Cereal Mocktail, $5.60, Austin’s Restaurant & Bar, 1101 Snyder Rd., West Lawn | 610.678.5500 austinsrestaurant.com

Social H ur Program Highlights at Area Senior Living Communities

BY JON FASSNACHT

Age, as the saying goes, is just a number. It’s something senior living communities try to reinforce on a daily basis. Local facilities go all out finding ways to keep their residents feeling young in body and in spirit, including happy hours, live entertainment, goat yoga, puppy weddings, pig roasts, casino nights, in-house cheerleading groups, harvest moon balls, Senior Olympics and all kinds of fitness

classes. In many cases, the residents devise and plan the activities, sometimes even leading them. “A lot of our residents used to do these things before coming to live here, so it really allows them to feel like all they did was move,” says Jared Martz, director of community life and engagement at The Highlands of Wyomissing. “They’re still in their home, just in a new location.”

Traditions Come to Li fe

Its roots stretch back to the late 1800s, with a mission initially focusingon the opposite end of the life spectrum than its current modus operandi.

Founded as the Lutheran Orphans Home of Berks County, the Lutheran Home at Topton began accommodating older adults in the 1940s.

“Today we have around 460 total residents living on our campus,” says Melissa Kindall, senior director of corporate communications and marketing. The Lutheran Home offers a range of lifestyle options and solutions, including independent living, personal care, memory care, short-term rehabilitation and traditional skilled nursing. A wide range of activities are offered for the different levels of care, with some offered for everybody. One of its unique offerings, the traditional Christmas Putz, takes place in one of the retirement

community’s other unique offerings, the Brandywine Community Library, nestled in the Old Main building on the community’s campus.

“For our senior living residents to have a library right on their campus is nice because there are a lot of presentations and opportunities,” Kindall says.

The Putz — based on the German word “putzen,” meaning “to decorate” — dates to the facility’s early years. Covering more than 500 square feet, the collection of antique holiday displays, which includes working trains, was assembled in the early 20th century by one of the Lutheran Home’s matrons. Among the nearly two dozen scenes are a replica of Radio City Music Hall,

a circus and a church. The display was reassembled following a $7 million renovation project in 2017-2018.

Another high point of the year is Grandparents Day. The celebration marking the annual holiday in September features an antique car show and food trucks. In November, independent living residents have a Harvest Moon Ball, where they dress up and dance to live music.

A yearly survey reveals the residents’ favorite activities. “We’ll make adjustments for things that are more popular, or maybe they have some new

ideas like pickleball … everybody loves pickleball all of a sudden,” Kindall says. “And that has helped us discover some new day trips to take them off campus.”

Weekly and monthly events throughout the year include pub nights, bingo, exercise classes, singalongs, trivia and musical entertainment every other month.

“Our residents are very generous,” Kindall says. “They do storytelling in our skilled nursing unit, presentations for some of our other residents, so it’s a community that is very close to one another even if they are in different levels of care.”

Sneaky Fun Exercising

A few years ago, Vi Schultz, director of fitness at Country Meadows of Wyomissing, sought a novel way to get the facility’s residents outside. Her solution was puppy love: a wedding featuring two pooches.

“If you add puppies, a pastor, doggie guests and a golf cart decorated with streamers and balloons, boom, you’ve got a reason for residents to get outside and do a procession, which means walking, which means exercise,” Schultz says. “And we got to celebrate afterward, so that was a win-win.”

One of 10 retirement communities throughout Pennsylvania and Maryland managed by Country Meadows, the Wyomissing campus houses more than 200 residents. That’s a lot of potential converts for Schultz.

“Some would say I’m sneaky with exercise, but I think you don’t really need to be sneaky if you make exercise and activities fun,”

she says. “This past winter we got two baby goats from a local farm, dressed them up in Christmas pajamas and did yoga in the fitness center. It took a lot of tarp, a lot of hay, a lot of major cleaning when it was all said and done, but it was totally worth it to hear the giggles and see the smiles from both the residents and the staff.”

Country Meadows bases its programming on its residents’ wants and past experiences, allowing many of them to relive their glory days. A recent example was an International Dance Day celebration inspired by and featuring a resident who spent decades as a professional dancer.

Schultz, whose voice bursts

with excitement when discussing her ideas, gets a distinct thrill out of introducing the residents to the latest technologies, such as virtual reality goggles. She calls it traveling around the world without the packing, even utilizing them in some of her fitness classes, making sessions on incumbent bikes exponentially more enjoyable.

“The residents were amazed with the way technology has evolved from their days to what we have available now,” she says. “I think it’s neat when a 98-year-old resident, who has been on this earth for nearly 10 decades, says to you, ‘I’ve never seen that before,’ or ‘I’ve never done that before.’ It feels like mission accomplished.”

A Senior Live It Up Community

Its tagline says it all: Don’t just live, live it up here! Established in 2009, The Heritage at Green Hills bills itself as an atypical retirement community, with a young-at-heart outlook and an emphasis on wellness.

It accomplishes that through its Well by Design program, revolving around eight dimensions of wellness — intellectual, physical, vocational, emotional, spiritual, social, environmental and health services —which are incorporated into everything the facility does.

The programming and activities are selected by the residents with some assistance from the staff to assure each of the dimensions are being incorporated with a proper balance.

“When we do our programming, we show our residents which dimensions of wellness an activity involves so they stay well-balanced,” says Cheryl Anderson, director of the program. “It’s about body, mind, spirit.”

The nearly 80-acre complex in Shillington features independent living options with almost 200 apartments and a specialized senior care center featuring 50 personal care apartments and 20 memory care apartments.

There are upwards of a dozen things to do daily, with 85 percent of Heritage’s residents participating in some structured physical fitness activity.

“We really do live it up here,” says Ali Schratt, director of sales and marketing. “We are a community that is connected.

We help each other through life, and I see this in our residents every day all day.”

Notable annual events include a trip to see the Philadelphia Phillies in the spring, a pig roast and casino night in the fall, and a train room open house during the holidays.

“When our residents moved in, they brought their trains,” Anderson says. “And our artists decorate the rooms. They work on it all year. And every year they add a new piece of Berks County to it. There is the Pagoda, the Pomeroy’s building, the old Fairgrounds racetrack is there.”

Arranged by the residents, this year’s Super Bowl party featured food, drink and an appearance by the Heritage’s inhouse cheerleaders.

“We have a cheerleading group called the Heritage Hotties,” Schratt says. “Our residents who are a part of the group love it. Some have been introverts their whole lives and now, all of a sudden, they’re cheerleaders.”

The independent living cheerleaders also mentor the personal care iteration, the Care Center Cuties.

“Instead of just surviving, our residents are thriving,” Anderson says. “And they’re doing it on their own. We’re just here to support them.”

Instead of just surviving, our residents are thriving. ”

Sanatoga Court

610.718.0900 227 Evergreen Road, Pottstown genesishcc.com/sanatogacourt

Mifflin Court

610.796.1600

450 East Philadelphia Avenue, Shillington genesishcc.com/mifflincourt

Berkshire Commons

610.779.3993

5485 Perkiomen Avenue, Reading genesishcc.com/berkshirecommons

Help them stay in their homes and keep the independence they cherish. We always conduct regular, con dential in-home quality assurance visitations to go hand-in-hand with a customized care plan speci cally for your loved one. We are locally owned and operated, giving us a stake in your community.

Very Much a Family

It’s right there in the name. Compared to other residential centers in the county, Columbia Cottage is on the smaller side. But its team considers that to be a benefit.

“We are very much a family,” says Noreen Krymski, managing director at the 41-apartment assisted living facility.

Located on State Hill Road, Columbia Cottage opened in the 1990s, switching to assisted living 14 years ago. It offers 10 levels of care, ranging from fully independent to fully dependent, including dementia residents who are not a safety risk to themselves or others.

“And everyone is intermixed,” Krymski says. “We don’t segregate our levels of care.”

Columbia Cottage offers its residents about four to six daily activities, starting first thing in the morning with exercise and current events. Other daily

events include game time and movies with popcorn.

On the food and drink front, there is a weekly happy hour, and every other Friday from Memorial Day to Labor Day features a family-style barbecue.

Throughout the year, the facility brings in several live entertainers, as well as agencies that offer a variety of specialized programs such as bingo. With the Philadelphia teams competing for a championship in baseball and football last season, Columbia Cottage hosted World Series and Super Bowl parties.

Columbia Cottage’s resident council surveys each department throughout the year for suggestions for what

they would like to see on the activities calendar or musicians they did or didn’t like.

Annual events include a staff appreciation party in August, resident and staff Christmas parties during December, and a series of events honoring National Assisted Living Week in September.

“It starts with Grandparents Day,” Krymski says, “and each day during that week we offer entertainers and specialized programs for the families, the residents and the staff to integrate what we’re doing.”

Change All Expectations

Sometimes, an active program for seniors is hiding inside a normally passive one. You just need to tweak it a bit.

Normally, if you’re going to watch a sporting event, you’re by yourself or sitting around with a group of people,” says Jared Martz, director of community life and engagement at The Highlands. “One time, when we broadcast a Phillies game in our Cultural Center, we brought in a local historian to come and talk about the history of baseball in Reading. Immediately following the presentation, we turned on the Phillies game and fed them ballpark food — hot dogs, peanuts, Cracker Jacks, all that fun stuff — and it was a great hit.”

Founded in the late 1980s, The Highlands has approximately 240 apartments, 60+ villas, a historic farmhouse used as a living unit and a barn that was renovated into three residential units.

The continuing care retirement community incorporates what it calls an Engage wellness program, dividing it into six dimensions — emotional, intellectual, physical, social, spiritual and nutritional — that are built into its programming.

“Our residents are involved in almost all the programming decision making,” Martz says. “Our activities committee has almost full control in the sense that they pick the bands that come in; they pick the topics they want to learn. It is fully run by them, and that gives our residents purpose.”

Martz sorts The Highlands’ offerings into three categories: general daytime programming, nighttime programming and the Summer Social Series.

Daytime programming mixes sociability with physical activity, along with educational enrichment opportunities.

“What you typically would think a typical senior exercise class is, we take that and kind of change all expectations,” Martz says. “We have PRX classes; we have high-interval classes; we have full-on cardiovascular classes, types of classes you would see on a gym’s schedule. And the residents love it. We have 90-year-olds, 100-year-olds even, hanging from PRXs, doing pushups, back rows, Zumba dancing.”

Nighttime programming is more formal, taking advantage of the facility’s abundant outdoor spaces. A recent program featured

The Highlands’ president and CEO, Kevin DeAcosta, cooking a meal for residents.

The Summer Social Series runs from June through October, with one large themed social event each month.

The holiday season is also big. Every day from Black Friday through New Year’s Day includes something holiday-themed, including nondenominational programming, according to Martz.

But the most engaging programs tend to come from the residents themselves.

“They actually host two big programs they have full control over,” Martz says. “In May they did a Here Comes Summer program. They put together classic songs that all have the vibe of summer, and they choreographed them to amazing skits that got over 50 residents involved, so that was really engaging. The residents come out to support their fellow residents. No matter what the topic is, no matter what the program is, they come out.”

Kevin DeAcosta cooking a meal for residents

Our residents are involved in almost all the programming decision making... ”

I

y V

Among the many amenities on Phoebe Berks’ sprawling Wernersville campus is a pub, featuring a pool table room and dartboards. Happy hours there are very lively, a fact many folks find surprising, according to Donna Schudel, a member of Phoebe Ministries’ Marketing and Community Relations.

“It always cracks me up when people say to me, ‘What, your folks drink?’” she says. “And it’s like, what do you mean? Of course they do. They’re just people.”

Serving more than 550 seniors, the 66acre continuous care retirement community is one of four operated by Phoebe Ministries. Founded in 1903 and affiliated with the United Church of Christ, Phoebe offers allinclusive services ranging from independent living through end of life.

The campus includes a walking trail and an indoor swimming pool, the site of many of Phoebe’s 40-plus fitness classes each week. An outdoor boardwalk area – which includes a putting green and spaces to play bocce ball, shuffleboard and cornhole – is host to the Senior Olympics, one of Phoebe’s most-

anticipated activities. The event is serious business, according to Schudel.

“I have been a judge at them and it’s a little scary,” she says, laughing. “Because they are very serious.”

Another popular fitness option is senior boxing, taught by one of Phoebe’s residents who boxed in the military. Residents leading fellow residents is a common occurrence at Phoebe.

“We have a woman in independent living who used to run her own dance studio,” Schudel says. “She has been teaching tap classes, seated and standing. They just did their first dance recital, which also included a whole quartet of pianists, because we have several incredible pianists, and the composer as well as our chorale.

“Our Phoebe Berks campus alone has 25 retired teachers, so we have folks who are super active and giving back and teaching their own classes. They have so much to give back to the community. These are incredibly vital people.”

The Berks campus, already the organization’s largest, is about to grow. In March, Phoebe purchased over 250 acres of its neighboring property, the former Jesuit Center for Spiritual Growth in Lower Heidelberg Township. Schudel could not offer any timeline, with planning still in its early stages.

Over 85 years of service to our community

Columbia Cottage Wyomissing 3121 State Hill Rd., Wyomissing 610.927.0310 columbiacottage.com

Country Meadows of Wyomissing 1800 Tulpehocken Rd., Wyomissing 610.374.3122

The Heritage at Green Hills 200 Tranquility Lane, Shillington 484.269.5100

The Highlands at Wyomissing 2000 Cambridge Avenue, Wyomissing 610.775.2300 thehighlands.org

The Lutheran Home at Topton 1 Home Avenue, Topton 610.682.1400

Phoebe Berks 1 Reading Dr., Wernersville 610.927.8200

Mike Kuhn Ed Kuhn

EDWARD J. KUHN, JR., SUPERVISOR WEST READING

CHRISTOPHER W. WARKER, SUPERVISOR POTTSTOWN

LAURA M. ADAMO, SUPERVISOR READING

SAMANTHA K. SMITH, SUPERVISOR TEMPLE

MICHAEL R. KUHN, SUPERVISOR HAMBURG

Dr. Patrick Borja

Owner & Chiropractor | The Spine & Wellness Center

Dr. Patrick Borja, owner and chiropractor at the Spine and Wellness Center in Exeter Township, graduated from West Chester University with a B.A. in Psychology. While there, he became a certified emergency medical technician. He went on to Life University, a Chiropractic School in Atlanta, GA, where he graduated cum laude in 1999.

The Spine and Wellness Center is a state-of-the-art chiropractic facility offering the latest technologies to assist in patient care. Dr. Borja’s focus during his 23-year career has been on auto- and workinjured patients. He has concentrated his postgraduate education on understanding these types of injuries as well as the best treatment practices for them. His education has an emphasis on MRI studies, orthopedic testing, accident reconstruction, neurology and trauma of the spine as well as soft tissue damage and repair, rehabilitative exercises and stretches.

The Spine and Wellness Center team of providers uses a multidisciplinary approach to patient care, collaborating with a wide network of medical specialists. Call the Spine and Wellness Center today to see how we can help you, your family or your employees.

3933

Dr. Tammy Balatgek

Owner & Lead Dentist | Center for TMJ & Sleep Disorders, LLC

The Center for TMJ & Sleep Disorders, LLC is a dental practice that provides noninvasive, non-surgical and holistic solutions for the following conditions: snoring, sleep apnea, facial pain, headaches, insomnia, fatigue, tooth clenching and grinding, ear pain without infection, ear ringing, locked jaw, jaw joint noises and jaw pain. Treatments may include physical medicine modalities such as ultrasound and cold laser treatments and/or wearing custom-made mouth appliances.

Dr. Tammy Balatgek is the owner and lead dentist of the Center for TMJ, which opened in 2005. Dr. Balatgek is a Berks County native and received her Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) degree from Ohio State University and a Master of Science degree (MS) in craniofacial pain from Tufts University in Boston. Dr. Balatgek lectures to dental and medical professionals to raise the awareness of symptoms and treatments for TMJ (jaw joint) and sleep-disordered breathing. Dr. Balatgek is also a forensic dentist for Berks and Philadelphia Counties and provides help with identification of the deceased through dental records.

Dr. Balatgek understands patients’ concerns through her own suffering with chronic migraines since adolescence. With extensive education and utilizing the treatments to help herself, she saw a void in the medical field. She set up her practice focused on TMJ and sleep-disordered breathing to help patients find answers and improve their quality of life.

Please call our office today to see how Dr. Balatgek can help you or your partner reclaim quality of life!

2433 Morgantown Rd. (Rte.10)

Ste. 200, Reading

610.796.2835

1.888.TMJ.SLEEP

tmjsleepcenter.com

Perkiomen Avenue, Reading

610.779.4588 | spineandwellness.org

Andrea Smith, DDS

Owner/Prosthodontist

Berks

Dr. Andrea Smith is the founder of Berks Prosthodontics. A prosthodontist is a dental specialist who has completed dental school plus a three-year Advanced Prosthodontics residency at an ADA-accredited graduate program focusing on technical excellence in the restoration and replacement of teeth. Prosthodontists are THE acknowledged experts in dental implant restorations, crowns, bridges, dentures, cosmetic dentistry, and full-mouth implant prosthetics such as Teeth-in-One-Day or All-On-4.

A Berks County native, Dr. Smith received her Bachelor of Science degree in Pre-Medicine from Penn State University, where she graduated as Class Valedictorian of the Eberly College of Science. She then attended the Columbia University College of Dental Medicine in New York City, where she again graduated as Class Valedictorian with a Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) degree. After receiving her dental degree, Dr. Smith completed three years of specialty training in the field of Prosthodontics at UCLA’s Advanced Prosthodontics Residency Program, followed by an additional one-year residency at UCLA in Maxillofacial Prosthetics, making her one of only 350 Maxillofacial Prosthodontists worldwide.

Dr. Smith returned to our area in 2009 to become the first female Clinical Director of the Lancaster Cleft Palate Clinic, the oldest clinic in the world devoted to the treatment of children born with facial birth defects, a position she held for seven years.

In 2015, Dr. Smith opened Berks Prosthodontics in Wyomissing, bringing her specialty training back to her hometown. At Berks Prosthodontics she sees patients with a wide variety of dental concerns, such as broken or missing teeth, uncomfortable dentures, extensive tooth wear, or dissatisfaction with the appearance of their smile. 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, Dr. Smith strives to provide all of her patients with an unparalleled level of care.

Reading Dermatology Associates

Nature’s Garden

For 15 years, Reading Dermatology Associates in West Lawn has been providing families in Berks County with expert skin care using the most effective, cutting-edge technology, delivering best results in general, cosmetic and skin cancer treatments.

Special attention is given to educating each patient about every procedure before it’s performed, and along with providing the most compassionate care, staff members ensure great patient comfort and satisfaction.

The goal of every staff member is to provide an amazing patient experience — from scheduling appointments and minimizing wait times to providing care in a warm, inviting office setting and maintaining a staff of caring, compassionate providers. When skin care emergencies arise, dedicated appointment availability for new patients is an absolute priority.

3317 Penn Avenue, West Lawn

610.750.7891 | readingderm.com

Nature’s Garden Natural Foods and Shoes is a pioneer in educating and recommending natural medicine for the last 46 years. Cindy Boyer CHS, CNHS, ND, and the educated staff provide free consultations daily. Dr. Boyer seeks to continue her education and knowledge through continuing education classes on herbs and nutrition. We recommend specific nutritional protocols using correctly formulated nutraceuticals for efficacy and safety. Inflammation is the root cause of much disease, and our products can help you prevent degenerative diseases. Nature’s Garden is a unique lifestyle store featuring outdoor wear like Patagonia and UGGs. Monday evenings at 6pm tune to WEEU830 AM or Nature’s Garden Facebook live for “Healthy Living with Nature’s Garden.”

4360 Perkiomen Avenue, Reading

610.779.3000

ngarden.net

Bone & Joint Care Center

Regain your passion for life at the Bone & Joint Care Center. Rediscover the joy of mobility and embrace a life free from hip and knee pain through a variety of treatment options at Bone & Joint Care Center — one of the most trusted physician practices in the region for orthopedics.

Experience the power of iovera° cold therapy. Embark on a journey to surgical success with iovera° cold therapy, a transformative solution performed before knee replacement surgery that numbs pain nerves around the knee, providing a head start on post-surgical comfort. Through this process, you can embrace recovery with confidence as iovera° paves the way for reduced pain and minimized reliance on opioids during your healing process.

Personalized care for every step of your journey. Your orthopedic needs are unique. That’s why our orthopedic experts take pride in creating customized care plans that get you back to doing the things you love most, faster. Our board-certified surgeons, Stephen Longenecker, MD, and Kenneth McAlpine, MD, collaborate with you to achieve the best possible outcome and pave the way for a life of pain-free mobility.

Questions? Need an appointment? Contact us to take the first step towards your journey to pain-free living.

Left to right: Kelly Mickulik, PA-C; Dr. Jason Hendrix, DO; Amy Hendrix, CRNP; Todd Staub, NP-C; Jamie LaPorte, PA-C; Dr. John V. LaManna M.D.

Gum disease affects more than half of the population aged 30 years or older. Periodontists are dentists that have extensive training on issues relating to the gums and the bone that supports the teeth. From gum disease to gum recession and even gummy smiles, at Keystone Periodontal Group, we are the experts in all the supporting structures of the teeth. Our specialized team is led by Dr. Amanda Clemente, a BoardCertified Periodontist and Implant Specialist. Our periodontal services are individually tailored to promote overall well-being and to guide you towards long-term oral health success.

27 Village Center Dr., Reading

610.777.7002

keystoneperiodontal.com

Dena Breslin

Holistic Coach, Author & Keynote Speaker

One of the most important ingredients for a healthy, happy and vibrant life is MINDSET.

When it comes to health and wellness, it takes a collective effort in the current healthcare system to heal the MIND, not just the body (with pills and tests).

That’s where my coaching practice comes into play. As a former physician assistant in gastroenterology, along with my subsequent decades of continued health/disease study, I weave that all together into my Mindset Coaching work.

It’s part of a collective, integrative approach to health and wellness.

My passion and mission is to help clients understand how their brain and body neural networks and energy centers have been bruised and, in fact, trained in their past and how this is affecting their current lives today. Once we heal and create new neural pathways, the brain and body talk differently to one another. The body’s healing follows, and when that happens, our thoughts, feelings, actions, choices, relationships, parenting, finances, weight… all improves.

I’m overjoyed with the work I am doing these days, and the evidence is clear. This coaching methodology works for people in profound ways. I’m deeply humbled and gratified to witness a client’s freedom from those old pathways.

Set up your own discovery call with me through denabcoaching.com

I’m looking forward to meeting you. denabcoaching.com

THE SCHUMO CENTER FOR FITNESS AND WELL-BEING

Albright offers a state-of-the-art fitness center, group fitness classes, open swim and aquatic exercise classes. Yearly memberships are available. We accept Healthways, Silver Sneakers, Renew Active and Active & Fit insurance plans. *During our Fall special, present this ad for a free registration, plus one month free on one yearly membership.

Amanda Clemente

DMD, MS

Keystone Periodontal Group

Reinecker Dental Group

At Reinecker Dental Group, we’ve been creating happy, healthy smiles in Reading and the surrounding areas for more than 40 years.

The experienced team of doctors at Reinecker Dental Group are dedicated to providing you and your family with high quality, gentle, patientfocused comprehensive dental care. We offer a wide array of services to meet your dental needs, from routine dental care such as cleanings, fillings, crowns and x-rays, to more complex treatments like dental implants, All on X hybrid

restorations and full-mouth reconstruction. We also work with leading medical colleagues in our area to offer oral appliance therapy for those patients struggling with obstructive sleep apnea and snoring, or for those that cannot tolerate CPAP machines. Dr. Christian Reinecker has extensive training in dental sleep medicine and is one of only a few dental professionals in Berks County who holds diplomate status under the Board of American Association of Dental Sleep Medicine.

We are in-network for most PPO dental plans and offer several flexible financing options. We even offer an in-house membership plan to reduce costs for those patients without dental insurance. Our entire team strives to create an environment of trust and caring for patients of all ages and dental needs and is committed to staying current with advancements in dental technology, procedures and materials, ensuring that all of our patients received the best dental care available!

Body Zone Physical Therapy

Body Zone Physical Therapy is a privately owned orthopedic and sports physical therapy center dedicated to providing the most comprehensive and personalized patient care in our community.

We’re committed to helping each patient achieve maximum physical function and quality of life by providing effective and compassionate care for his or her individual needs in a comfortable, friendly and family-centered setting. Our state-of-the art clinic is open to the public and is located on the second floor of Body Zone Sports and Wellness Complex in Wyomissing.

Led by Dr. Randy Yocum, director and founder, Body Zone’s team of physical therapists have a combined 100 years of experience. They are highly skilled in movement assessment and utilize the most advanced manual/hands-on therapy, treatment techniques, therapeutic exercises and patient education to restore function, to decrease pain, to manage injuries and to speed recovery.

Specialists in Eye Care FOR SENIORS

Cornea

Domenic C. Izzo, Jr, MD | Peter D. Calder, MD

Francisco L. Tellez, MD, FACS | Kasey L. Pierson MD

Guri Bronner, MD | Benjamin D. Nicholas, MD

Michael C. Izzo, MD | Jacquelyn M. Horst, OD

Travis J. Gabriel, OD

3103 Paper Mill Rd., Wyomissing 610.376.2100

bodyzonesports.com/physicaltherapy

The Body Zone Physical Therapy team, pictured left to right: Alyssa Melzer, physical therapy technician; Chris Maryniak, PTA; Randy Yocum, DPT, CSCS; Doug Kemp, PT; Laurie Yocum, MPT

LET'S TALK TRADITIONS

BY COURTNEY ELL

It has been said that time is money. It has also been said that money cannot buy happiness. Ferris Bueller said it best: “Life moves pretty fast. If you don't stop and look around once in a while, you could miss it.” Whether with the family we were born into or the chosen family we found along the way, traditions are our way of making time stand still, if only for a moment. Shared traditions strengthen the ties to our personal heritage while chronicling new chapters in our history together. Above all, these fleeting moments are priceless.

MEET THE B R A N T S

Move Over, Maria Von Trapp!

The hills are alive with the sound of… family! As Julie Andrews marched out into the great unknown, she belted out her anthem I Have Confidence. Let’s be honest, when standing on the precipice of adolescence, unabashed confidence in oneself is seldom the inherent prerequisite for crossing the threshold to 13. Nevertheless, one Berks County dad may have just hacked the system. Five years ago, he took his eldest daughter Annalee (now 17) on their inaugural 13th-birthday backpacking trek.

Free from technology, he offers each daughter his undivided attention while the Appalachian Trail grants golden moments to chat one-on-one while working together, “setting up shelter, preparing food and just sharing the joy of the natural world.” Wernersville resident

Nathan Brant reflects, “When we were planning our first trip, I envisioned big conversations about life. I can now confidently say it's much more about the little conversations. We talk about school more than about what we want to be when we grow up. We talk about the hill we're climbing rather than the challenges that may be ahead of us in life. I suppose I was initially disappointed, but the little things matter. We talk about what they want to talk about.”

Being Present is the Gift

Dahlia (16) pipes in with mountains of middle sister pluck; “I feel like this is my dad's unique way of letting us know that he is here and present and cares. It's a really subtle and exciting way to reconnect with your parent and for your parent to see you in an independent, self-

sufficient setting, which is super empowering as a kid.”

In preparation for their three-day hike, the birthday girl reviews trail maps, helps to pick each site, sets daily mileage, and creates the menu for each journey with careful consideration given to calculating every ounce. All necessities, food and shelter from the elements for their three-day journey must be carried on their backs. “We hike four miles, eat lunch and finish with seven to eight miles. We set up tents, cook dinner and clean up. At night, we talk and play cards or some trail game,” recounts Brant. “I suppose it doesn't sound like much, but each thing we do, we do together. Every moment is an opportunity for conversation, laughter or frustration. It's not always an easy experience, and the sun is not always shining, but that's part of it.”

Milestones & Memories

Elated by her own fatherdaughter backpacking adventure this September, freshly minted teenager Gwyneth advises, “it can be

very tiring, but powering through and finishing feels amazing.

“Whatever your comfort level is, there is something so empowering about camping and spending time outside without phones or social media.” Dahlia affirms, “Turning 13 is definitely a milestone. All of a sudden, you're a teenager. Setting the precedent of going outside and spending time with nature, your family and yourself is a really great mindset to begin your teenage years with.”

SETTING UP SHELTER, PREPARING FOOD & JUST SHARING THE JOY OF THE NATURAL WORLD. ”

MEET THE

Ciao, Famiglia!

Every year, August’s last Saturday brings with it a small army of tomato-red t-shirts, each adorned with “The Official D’Onofrio Sauce Day.” As the summer sun crests — well before you have dozily rubbed the slumber from your eyes — the D’Onofrio family is already hard at work.

These days, it’s hard to imagine cooking a year’s worth of …well, anything from scratch all in one day, let alone assembling the entire extended family under one Bernville roof to pull it off.

Parents, grandparents, uncles, aunts, cousins and friends gather on Sauce Day. Even the youngsters have been chipping in as tiny tomato “squishers” since their days in diapers. There’s always music playing, though you’re likely to not hear it over the heaps of merriment and family chatter. Jaunty as a tarantella, they dance between one another seamlessly.

D ' O N O F R I O S

“Everyone knows what’s hot, what not to touch, where not to crowd and it just works,” declares daughter-in-law Marissa D’Onofrio of Shillington. “Making the sauce feels like home! It’s a feeling of comfort and family. There’s so much love and laughter when we’re all together, keeping the tradition alive. My favorite part is watching my husband, Chris, work side by side with his father, Tony, learning from him and passing that knowledge on to our children.”

Hardship & Hope

Like so many multigenerational traditions, this sauce was born of hardship and hope. Firstgeneration Italian immigrant and family patriarch Tony D’Onofrio came to America in 1958 at the ripe age of 11, settling in Birdsboro. With a narrative as rich and storied as the flavorful recipes of yore, the D’Onofrio family brought with

them a bit of home by way of one ubiquitous heirloom staple. An indisputable must within any proper Italian kitchen, the generations-old copper pot was used long before they traversed across the North Atlantic Ocean. Known to raise the acidity, a ceramic dish is placed at the copper pot’s base for balance.

Buon Appetito!

Today, freshly grown herbs fragrantly dance about within the old copper pot, ready to launch your taste buds back to the old country. “Meatier” Roma tomatoes are the family favorite and are amassed 10 bushels at a time. Impromptu prep stations comprised of driveway picnic tables, single burners and hand crank presses have since been upgraded to electric press machines and several kerosene stovetops housed beneath a large pole barn. Each farmfresh tomato is hand-quartered for pressing while rows upon rows of 200-plus squeakyclean glass jars await, already containing homegrown sweet basil and parsley.

A sumptuous base for their favorite Italian dishes and good enough to eat by the spoonful, Sauce Day feeds the family throughout the year. Sustenance once made out of humble necessity now surpasses need and nostalgia. Today, it serves as a physical tie, nourishing the family bond itself. “I feel incredibly grateful to be a part of this family. It’s all about time! Take time to just be with family, whatever that means to you.” Pausing, Marissa smiles. “The sauce is the purpose. Family is the reason.”

THE SAUCE IS THE PURPOSE. FAMILY IS THE REASON. ”

home accents Vintage

BY HEATHER BAVER | PHOTOS PROVIDED

Celebrate your home’s unique style by incorporating vintage décor. Enjoy the thrill of discovery as you search for one-of-a-kind treasures of the past and savor the satisfaction of displaying them around your home. Take a look at these awesome items from local antique shops and get the creative ideas flowing.

Light up a Room

Repu R pose & get c R eative

Discover the charm of vintage advertising. These containers of bygone products instantly transport you to yesteryear, and their artwork makes them a great conversation piece. While these blasts from the past may no longer contain their original products, they can enjoy a second life as cool décor. Larger containers, like this Philadelphiabased Dutch Boy Pretzel Tin, offer plenty of hidden storage that’s much more unique than a plastic bin ($75, Antique Treasures). Tins of varying sizes can be used as planters, and smaller containers are perfect for corralling little items like crafting supplies.

Back in the day, stoneware crocks were hardworking, stylish storage solutions for food. Today, they’re an ideal way to imbue a home with a chic farmhouse vibe. Crafted by Ralph J. Grier in Chester County, this 1880s cake crock features dark red clay with cobalt blue decorations ($695, Hamburg Antiques Center, LLC). Crocks with a wide opening are ideal for creative storage options, such as creating a decorative display of frequently used items, like kitchen tools. Crocks in a range of sizes can be used for art supplies and makeup items or as planters or vases for colorful floral arrangements. Grouped together, they make stunning, colorful vignettes.

Illuminate your world, turn-ofthe-20th-century style. Slag glass is colorful, opaque glass made from recycled smelted iron. It’s also known as marble glass due to its swirling colors like those in this lamp shade ($525, Hamburg Antiques Center, LLC). With its floral motifs and decorative metalwork, this 1920s-1930s-era lamp would be perfect next to your book collection in a stately home library. The muted light from the cream-and-brown shade is also a good fit for a dresser or nightstand.

This lamp could also be placed on a table near a special piece of framed art to provide light and create an artful display. Add some mid-century flair to your dining table with a handhammered copper candlestick made by Hessel Studios in California. With clean lines and an emphasis on beautiful, functional style, mid-century décor continues to be popular. At 12 inches tall, the elongated design looks amazing with or without a candle. You could also display it on a bookcase or side table as an elegant decoration ($195, Greshville Antiques).

Be R ks- Based t R easu R es

Decorate with items that salute local heritage. From 1965-2011, Lester Breininger and his team created redware pottery with motifs and designs from Pennsylvania German art. Made in 1989 in Robesonia, this 10-inch redware plate features vibrant colors and a butterfly surrounded by greenery. You can craft an eyecatching arrangement by hanging plates on your wall, installing a plate rail for a display around a room’s perimeter or showcasing cherished pieces in a hutch with other décor. Breininger Pottery is highly collectible and found in museums like the Philadelphia Museum of Art as well as in private collections ($95, Greshville Antiques).

“I feel like the most exciting part about collecting antiques is the hunt,” says Amy Trabosh of Hamburg Antiques Center, LLC. “We love displaying the antiques in our home and being able to share the history of each item with the people we have over.”

To further expand your PA German décor options, branch out into the artistic offerings of Dan Strawser. A Robesonia native, Strawser was one of Lester Breininger’s students at Conrad Weiser. Strawser shared Breininger’s enthusiasm for traditional art forms, and the two spent time carving wood together. Working with just a pocket knife, Strawser carved pieces, and his wife painted them. Made in 1987, these birds on a tree add a PA Germaninspired look to any tabletop ($350, Hamburg Antiques Center, LLC). Place them on an entryway table with a basket for keys and enjoy colorful, nature-inspired art at home.

m uch- Loved L inens

Decorating your home with vintage linens is a fabulous way to enjoy the sewing talents of people of the past. Each one tells its own story in the colorful arrangement of fabrics and patterns. With its vibrant juxtaposition of complementary colors, this orange-and-blue quilt showcases tiny hand stitching ($400, Antique Treasures). Vintage quilts have extraordinary longevity, and some have been lovingly cared for by generations of owners, like this floral quilt, dated to 1938. A closer look at this Berks County-made quilt reveals an intricate design of flowers and nested squares stitched into the white background ($248, Hamburg Antiques Center, LLC). Vintage quilts are perfect for decorating your own bed or guest bed. If you have multiple quilts you’d like to display, try draping them on a blanket rack or rolling them and putting them in a decorative basket. For delicate fabrics that need extra care, you can display them in a colorful stack in a glassfronted cabinet. In addition, quilts can be hung up as wall art.

gR and sto R age options

Make vintage décor the focal point of a room with vintage furniture. Enjoy the craftsmanship of decades past with room to store your treasures, both antique and modern. Made in the late 1800s, this oak sideboard would make an impressive addition to a dining room ($495, Delong’s Furniture and Antiques). The exquisite curved bottom cabinet and drawers provide ample hidden storage and are ideal for holding linens like placemats and napkins as well as sets of dishes. Richly textured carved scrolls adorn the sideboard’s top and add elegance. The top is a perfect place to display your favorite collectibles and highlight a couple of extra special items by placing them on the pedestals on either side of the mirror. If you have a large collection to display or several smaller ones to group together, consider a glass cabinet. Even though this glamorous late-1800s oak cabinet was likely intended to store china, use your creativity and showcase a collection of teacups, dolls, small sculptures or family heirlooms. The stunning bowed glass lets you view your

display from a variety of angles while keeping cherished pieces protected and dust-free. The dramatic carved lions and lions’ paws make this cabinet even more impressive ($595, Delong’s Furniture and Antiques).

Or give your home library a posh upgrade with a bookcase featuring glass doors. This oak bookcase hails from the 1980s and has leaded glass doors on each of its four shelves ($195, Delong’s Furniture and Antiques). A spectacular diamond design gives the top shelf added decoration. This case is great for displaying your collection of vintage and modern books. The deep shelves could also be used for other special items, like vintage glassware or toys, with each shelf curated to create a home museum exhibit.

When searching for antique furniture, the staff at Delong’s Furniture and Antiques notes, “We always recommend looking for a name or logo, checking for any damage, making sure the item is not a reproduction and doing your research if you are looking for a certain item.”

s i Lve R & c e R amic

For a touch of the classics, consider sterling silver. Durable and beautiful, sterling silver adds shine and sophistication. Best of all, these pieces can be used as functional as well as decorative elements. Made by Kenilworth Watrous, this early 20th century pierced candy dish includes a stylish textured design ($125, Greshville Antiques). Use it to artfully arrange your favorite chocolates and other sweets. Or think outside the box and use it to display small collectibles or jewelry. Have fun adding to your collection by seeking out pieces with the same maker’s mark, or keep an eye out for unique pieces that catch your interest.

Or embrace the elegance and artistry of

bone china is known for its fine craftsmanship, and this flower-of-the-month cup features a Christmas rose and holly on the cup and saucer ($35, Antique Treasures). To showcase these striking designs, experiment by displaying them nested together on a decorative tray or stacked on a plate stand on a buffet or dresser, or highlight one of your favorite patterns by placing the cup and saucer on a floating shelf.

If your decorating personality favors whimsical items, look for vintage salt and pepper shakers. Cute, colorful shakers come in a variety of designs, and they’re perfect for gracing your table or decorating a shelf.

inside their mother’s pouch so the salt and pepper will always travel together ($25, Antique Treasures).

“As far as collecting goes, pick something that you like and research it,” says Jill ZippTrate of Antique Treasures. “Check out collecting clubs for current info and prices. Don't forget that the prices you see online are

3Terrific Berks DINERS COME HUNGRY!

BY MARIAN FRANCES WOLBERS

Berks County is downright famous for its diners, for obvious reasons: we’re surrounded by farms (think: farm-fresh eggs, meats, cheeses, veggies and fruits) and populated by folks who love dining out. These three establishments are red-hot popular, thanks to tasty, traditional meals, creative new treats and consistently delicious recipes.

CROSSROADS FAMILY RESTAURANT

Centrally located and literally at the crossroads of Routes 61 (Pottsville Pike) and Route 222, this restaurant has been owned and operated by George Asimakopoulos with his brother for 12 years. George is quick to attribute his success not only to family roots in the business (their father was owner of Temple Family Restaurant) but to their father’s mantra.

“My father always preached to me, ‘Make sure you give quality to your customers. Even though it’s just a diner, always give quality in everything.’ So, our eggs are larger than at most diners. Our meats are choice-grade, hand-cut, such as our steaks. Our fish — we buy the best and freshest. Even our potatoes are cooked in-house, all hand-cut. We may not be a linen tablecloth place, but we have good quality,” says George.

There’s ample parking, thankfully, as this diner really packs in the customers.

George says humbly, “I just think that we do a good job at what we do. We value our customers; we have a welcoming,

clean environment, and we make people feel like it’s home.

“Berks County is a great place for breakfast. We have an awesome breakfast, and that plus lunch are probably our strongest times. However, customers love our dinners, thanks to the quality of the food and our service.”

Breakfast items vary. Some are served on skillets, like the 10-ounce NY strip steak and two eggs. Also popular are the Corned Beef Hash with two eggs, any style, the traditional Western Omelette, the savory Artichoke and Feta Cheese Omelette, the Sourdough French Toast and the sweetly enticing Chocolate Chip Pancakes.

Starting with the lunch hour, the salad bar shines.

“Our salad bar is our main draw,” says George. “We have one of the nicest in the area.” As for a popular dinner, try the full-blown Seafood Platter, which includes juicy scallops, shrimp and haddock. “People love it.” 4643

LEESPORT DINER

“To our customers, breakfast is the Leesport special,” says owner TJ Elrefael.

He believes two aspects of the diner are what makes it successful: the quality of the food and the service. Open most days from morning ‘til night, this gleaming silver restaurant has plenty of parking out front and in back. Well-loved for all sorts of standard, tasty egg breakfasts such as huge, custom omelettes and home fries, as well as an Avocado Benedict, Leesport Diner also serves up tons of creamed chipped beef every week (another Berks fave). Waffles, French toast, pancakes, biscuits and gravy — all good with morning coffee. The menu also features a very affordable senior section.

Beyond breakfast there are numerous starters, salads,

paninis, mac ’n cheese options, seafood, pasta, steak — something for every desire. When it comes to “most popular foods” on the expansive dinner menu, Tina (who works in the front of the house) declares, “The crabcakes are the best.” TJ comments that they’re made “with real crab meat” and also suggests newcomers try the lasagna as well as Leesport’s popular burgers, “made with USDA-certified black angus beef.” For dessert, there’s a bountiful pastry display. TJ claims they’re all delicious but “the Strawberry Cheesecake can’t be beat!”

5407 Pottsville Pike

Leesport | 484.277.7114

leesportdiner.com

LeesportDiner

Strawberry Cheesecake

LETTERMAN’S DINER

Doug Letterman’s diner is legendary. With this owneroperator and head chef at the helm, it’s been going strong for 25 years with nary a change in the fantastic breakfasts, ambiance (look up at the woodwork), walls sporting the same B&W pix of old Kutztown Diner, cool posters and a handwritten whiteboard with the day’s specials — all dreamed up by Doug. Just in front of the grill is a counter with stools, then a slim corridor for the waitstaff to traverse a trim line of tables that seat just two at a time. Getting around is a delicate dance for cooks and servers indeed, what with managing hot coffee, loaded platters and all. Just keep your

Doug explains, “We used to have a shirt saying, ‘Serving the whole world — 23 at a time!’”

For an over-the-top meal, come hungry! Stuffed Hashbrowns delivers country-fried steak with two scrambled eggs, American cheese stuffed between hashbrowns, and sausage gravy with a side of toast. Hey Arnold is ham, two eggs over easy on an English muffin, laden with Hollandaise and mozzarella.

“It’s named after a cartoon called Hey Arnold,” laughs Doug. People come from miles around, “especially on Saturday and Sunday,” says Doug. “Those fellows outside? They’ve been coming here, from Lancaster, for three years.” Worth the wait, any day.

242 W. Main St.

Kutztown | 610.683.3879

Letterman's Diner

Impossible Burger

3 Covered Bridge Rd., Oley • 610-689-5818 BridgeInnPleasantville.com

Hours: Wednesday & Thursday: 4-8pm Friday: 4-10pm | Saturday: Noon-10pm Sunday: Noon-8pm

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We’re proud to put Berks County first for 30 years, and we’re committed to helping you build on your success with a financial strategy that’s just for you.

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