Little Black Book of Family Businesses 2023

Little

BLACK BOOK 2023 – 2024

OF FAMILY BUSINESSES IN BERKS

BLACK BOOK OF FAMILY BUSINESSES IN BERKS

What would our communities be without the tried-and-true backbone family businesses that are a staple many of us have come to know and love?

From construction, car services, insurance, real estate and dental needs to shopping for jewelry, garden items or even heading out for a meal or sweet treat, family businesses cover a whole gamut of needs and genres that are essential to our everyday lives. They’re also known for giving back to the communities in which they reside.

So, let’s be sure to show them that same support! Get to know a few in the Greater Reading area here, stop by, and tell them you saw them in Berks County Living’s first-ever Little Black Blook of Family Businesses

. Nikki M. Murry, Editor-in-Chief

reserved.

claims made by

responsible for, unsolicited manuscripts,

BURKEY CONSTRUCTION

Founded by Grant S. Burkey in 1946, Burkey Construction started as a commercial construction company serving Reading and the surrounding Berks County area. Today, after more than 75 years of award-winning projects and satisfied repeat clients, we are a full-service, third-generation construction firm with a resume of landmark buildings in the Greater Reading community and clients in a variety of industries across Pennsylvania and the surrounding states.

We’ve weathered the ups and downs of our industry not just because of our commitment to creating high-quality structures, but our dedication to the people using them. We don’t just want to build something for you – we want to build something with you.

As we look towards what the next 75 years will bring for Burkey Construction, we approach every project with the same excitement, energy and dedication that Grant Burkey poured into his first contract back in 1946.

GREEN VALLEY DENTAL

Green Valley Dental was founded in 2013 by husband-and-wife doctors A.J. Giesa and Lisa Ciabattoni on the principles and values that everyone deserves exceptional, comfortable and efficient care they can trust.

Dr. Ciabattoni was born and raised in Wyomissing. She attended Holy Name High School, Boston College and Temple University School of Dentistry.

Dr. Giesa grew up in Kennewick, WA. After high school, he attended Western Washington University and then ventured to the east coast for dental school. Like Dr. Ciabattoni, he completed his dental education at Temple University.

After graduation in 2006, the two got married and moved to Washington State where they each worked at wonderful dental practices for six years. In 2012, they decided to move back to Berks County and are having fun working side by side at Green Valley Dental.

In 2018, they welcomed Dr. Dan Ciabattoni (Dr. Lisa’s cousin) to the practice. Like Dr. Lisa, he is a Berks County native, growing up in Wyomissing and attending Holy Name High School. He completed his undergraduate studies at the University of Vermont and also attended Temple University Kornberg School of Dentistry.

“We’re having a great time practicing together, especially as like-minded dentists committed to prioritizing a high standard of care, an exceptional patient experience and a positive, friendly office culture. It’s fun to come to work! The trust we have in each other as family, along with our awesome team, makes what we do fulfilling. We’re excited to serve our community for many more years to come,” says Dr. Giesa.

Both Dr. Lisa and Dr. Dan grew up with proud family ties to the dental community in Berks County. Her uncle and his grandfather, Dr. Jim Ciabattoni (1932-1994), was one of the founding members of Berks Oral Surgery in 1975. Soon after, he was joined by his brother and Dr. Lisa’s dad, John Ciabattoni. Dr. John practiced at BOS for 43 years before retiring in 2019. In 1991, Dr. Dan’s father, Dr. Fred Ciabattoni (Dr. Jim’s son), joined Berks Oral Surgery where he still practices today.

“We grew up with great examples of what it meant to take care of patients at a high level with genuine, personal care. We’ve carried a lot of those lessons forward in how we practice today and are thankful for the foundation they laid for us.” says Dr. Lisa.

Prioritizing a high standard of care, an exceptional patient experience and a positive, friendly office culture, the doctors and team at GVD have committed to the PROMISE of being HONEST, CARING & COMPREHENSIVE 100 percent of the time.

“Our team has a strong commitment to transforming the sometimes unpleasant and negative perception of dentistry. We strive to build value for our patients through education and an honest, comprehensive approach. Everyone at Green Valley Dental understands a major factor in accomplishing this is developing a caring and personal relationship with everyone we treat,” says Dr. Dan.

Green Valley Dental welcomes patients of all ages, offering a full scope of dental services from wellness visits, fillings, crowns and dentures, as well as implant restorative procedures and cosmetic enhancements. All of the doctors are active members of the American Dental Association, Pennsylvania Dental Association and Berks County Dental Society.

CHESTER PERFETTO AGENCY

Since 1971, Chester Perfetto Agency has been servicing the Berks County community for all its insurance needs. We offer all forms of insurance plans that encompass Auto, Homeowners, Individual and Group Health Insurance, Retirement, General Liability, Workers’ Compensation, all types of Business coverage and all Medicare plans.

As an independent agency, we have access to multiple insurance companies, allowing us the ability to compare rates and coverages.

Each licensed insurance professional has the expertise to review your individual needs, your family’s needs and your business needs and to make suggestions and recommendations that are as unique as you are!

We are also the only independent Insurance Agency in the country that has our own travel insurance product — TravelSafe Insurance!

TravelSafe plans are designed to protect travel-related costs for cancelations or interruptions, unexpected mishaps and delays as well as provide medical coverage while you are away on a business trip or a vacation. Our goal is education and continual support for your future insurance needs.

CJ’S TIRE & AUTOMOTIVE

CJ’s Tire & Automotive has been providing friendly, hassle-free and honest tire and automotive services to the Berks County area since 1971. From oil changes and inspections, to a fresh set of tires and routine scheduled maintenance, the staff at CJ’s welcome all drivers through their doors.

As a second and third generation-owned-and-run family business residing right here in Berks, the Levengoods consider their customers, employees and community a part of their family. It is their mission to provide an exceptional experience for their customers and to develop career opportunities for their employees.

Through their CJ’s CARES Initiative, CJ’s donates a portion of sales back to the local community. In the past three years, the cause has supported local organizations such as the Animal Rescue League of Berks County, Helping Harvest, PA Breast Cancer Coalition, Alex’s Lemonade Stand and many others!

The next time your vehicle is in need of care, visit CJ’s for trusted tire and automotive service.

GIPPRICH JEWELERS

Looking for a treasured piece of jewelry for that someone special or just to treat yourself? Head to Gipprich Jewelers in Shillington. The family-owned business has been selling jewelry and diamonds, including unique estate pieces, for 77 years, marking a quality business standing the test of time. Just ask their faithful customers!

Founded in 1945 by Walter J. Gipprich with a strong focus on customer service, current owners Amy and Richard Gipprich continue the tradition, aiming to provide quality products and the expertise that only comes with experience and training. Gipprich employs a full staff of three goldsmiths, a gemologist and a sales and service team that cares. They do repair work and appraisals, too. You can rest assured that should your special piece ever need special care, all work is confidently completed in their shop on site!

Find product updates daily on their Facebook page @GipprichJewelers.

KLEIN TRANSPORTATION

The Klein family is no stranger to passenger transportation, their roots dating to 1957. Located in Amity Township, Klein Transportation has always seen a family member at its helm. Currently under the fourth generation of leadership with Alison Klein Sherman, Klein continues to provide quality, safe and reliable transportation services with both luxury motorcoaches and school buses. With more than 65 years of experience, Klein is one of the few charter companies in the area servicing both the local community and the tri-state region.

Klein serves with a personal touch. From a customer’s first call to their final step off the motorcoach after a trip, their experience with Klein is what keeps them returning.

▸ Charter Services for groups of all kinds

▸ Special Event, Wedding, Airport Transfer and Shuttle Services

▸ Daily Commuter Service to New York from Berks and Lehigh counties

▸ One-Day and Overnight Tour Offerings

▸ Casino Trips to Wind Creek – Bethlehem and Atlantic City

610.385.6700

• KLEINTRANSPORTATION.COM

NONNO ALBY’S

Nonno Alby’s was created to cater to your pizza cravings in the most unique ways possible, and now, we’re bringing our restaurant to you!

With our restored classic truck and a handcrafted, wood-fired pizza oven imported from Italy, our aim is to fit in beautifully with your event. Stick to the basics with pizza and wings, or increase the “WOW” factor a notch with a customized menu. Choose from our variety of hors d’oeuvres, meat and cheese displays and our signature Italian s’mores. With reclaimed wooden tables lined in front of our mobile eatery, our truck complements any venue or party theme. When you combine great food, company and wine, the results are magic. Our truck was designed with you in mind, so sit back, relax and enjoy your guests! Follow our adventures online @nonnoalbys and watch as we arrive to give Berks County the ultimate outdoor dining experience!

PHOTOS BY TARA WHITED PHOTOGRAPHY

THE PETER HEIM TEAM KELLER WILLIAMS PLATINUM REALTY

Heim means home in Berks County, and the Heims have been helping residents with their real estate needs for decades! Peter Heim joined his father’s real estate business after graduating from Temple University more than 38 years ago. Now Peter’s son, Christopher, joins the team, marking the third generation to help clients navigate the process of buying and selling homes.

Born and raised in Berks, Peter is an award-winning Real Estate Broker who’s earned more than 300 five-out-of-five gold-star customer reviews. He’s a hard-working, seasoned professional who makes the process of buying and selling a home seamless and fun.

Peter has been married to Michele for 31 years. They have seven children and two grandchildren. He knows owning the perfect home for your family is essential. When you’re ready to make a move, contact the Peter Heim Team at Keller Williams Platinum Realty and let them do the best job for you.

CELL: 610.745.3378

RIVERVIEW TREE & LANDSCAPING RIVERVIEW GARDENS & GIFTS

Celebrating its 50th anniversary in 2023, Riverview Tree & Landscaping, Inc. has been a family-run company from its inception. Originally founded by Donald A. Haas, his daughter, Diane Salks, joined the business in 1984 and became president in 1996. Riverview is a 100 percent womanowned business. Representing the next generation, Diane’s son, Aleks Salks, is one of Riverview’s landscape design/pond design professionals and is also an installer/landscaper. His wife, Aleah Salks, is the garden center manager. Diane’s daughter, Alaina, serves as marketing manager. Visit them at Riverview and you’ll see that the genuine family-run business spirit is alive and thriving, as its founder intended. The Nursery & Garden Center is located on 18 acres in Temple, offering the freshest and healthiest plants, trees, shrubs, fruit trees, indoor plants, gardening supplies and much more. Riverview’s staff includes nearly 30 trained, experienced and licensed professionals, several of whom have been with the company for nearly 40 years.

THE WALIZER AGENCY STATE FARM

Experience the difference of having your insurance serviced by The Walizer Agency, State Farm. Seth and Laura Walizer, along with their team at the Walizer Agency, are grateful for the opportunity to serve their policyholders in Berks. They offer lifelong protection with agents who know your name, your family, and why having multiple coverage and price options are important.

Seth, having nearly 30 years of insurance experience, is a second-generation State Farm agency owner. His father has owned an agency in State College, PA, for more than 50 years. Seth graduated from Penn State University; an avid golfer, he played golf for Penn State.

Community volunteerism is important to the Walizer family. Each month they volunteer at the Opportunity House and the Animal Rescue League of Berks County. The pair has served as guest readers/speakers in various local school districts and for Berks County Public Libraries. Currently, the Walizer Agency is collecting school supplies for their “Stuff the Bus” school supplies drive. Visit the Seth Walizer State Farm Facebook page for more information on how you can donate!

SWEET RIDE ICE CREAM

Ten years ago, if you told Sweet Ride Ice Cream owner Angie Farrell that she would one day own and operate the sweetest shop in Berks, she wouldn’t have believed you. In 2013, Angie was working as a paralegal and her husband, Chris, as a teacher. They were sitting on the beach when they heard the bells of an ice cream vendor, and he said, “We should get an ice cream bike!” The rest is history.

Sweet Ride serves award-winningly delicious ice cream that is made on site on Penn Avenue. More than your typical ice cream parlor, the shop is designed as a 1940s-style soda fountain. In addition to experiencing (or remembering) days gone by, customers can enjoy Sweet Ride’s treats across southeastern Pennsylvania from their traveling ice cream bike, mobile ice cream parlor and ice cream truck. These sweet rides are the perfect surprise to up the fun factor for your next event!

VAN SCOY JEWELERS

When making one of the most important purchases of your life, put your trust in Van Scoy Jewelers, Berks County’s fine jewelry destination for more than 40 years. A female-owned and operated business, the store boasts a modern design and welcoming atmosphere that sets the stage for an exceptional shopping experience. With a focus on ethically sourced diamonds and gemstones, owner Caroline Hill is committed to social responsibility and sustainability.

The experienced Van Scoy team specializes in diamonds, engagement rings and fine jewelry. But what makes the store truly unique is its custom design services and full-service repair department. The ability to create a custom piece based on your individual vision is something truly special, and providing high-quality repair services ensures you can continue to enjoy your jewelry for years to come. Stop in today for your next dazzling diamond or custom creation.

1121 PENN AVENUE

WYOMISSING

610.374.9330