B1stSpring2024

Celebrating

Years of Excellence

Since its inception in 1824 to present, Berks County Medical Society (BCMS) has grown into one of the most active county chapters in Pennsylvania, proudly supporting over 600 dedicated society members, including practicing member physicians, residents, and medical students.

Executive Director TJ Huckleberry shared: “In this bicentennial year, BCMS remains devoted to the well-being of both its healthcare professionals and the Berks County community, showcasing resilience, growth, and an enduring commitment to excellence.”

Members benefit from free continuing medical education (CME), leadership resources, the new 1824 Club, and the Journal Club, which promotes collegiality and allows members to share interests through monthly events. At the core of BCMS’s mission is providing resources to the Berks County community, through outlets including the WEEU HealthTalk Podcast, Medical Record magazine, the Health & Wellness Directory, active community event participation, robust social media accounts, and more!

COMMISSIONERS’ MESSAGE

Welcome to Berks 1st magazine, showcasing the great works and interesting places within our county! In this issue, we introduce our newest county commissioner, Dante Santoni, Jr., whose dedication to public service and community engagement promises a bright future for Berks County.

As we delve into the heart of our community, we spotlight the rich heritage preserved at the Gruber Wagon Works historic site and uncover the legacy of craftsmanship and innovation that has shaped our region’s reputation.

In another segment, we focus on the indispensable work carried out by the Berks County Sheriff Office’s K9 Units. From tracking down suspects to detecting narcotics, these highly trained canine partners showcase the vital role they play in maintaining public safety. We explore the rigorous training regimen and specialized skills required to uphold the highest standards of law enforcement.

Additionally, we are pleased to showcase the community human services program, Connections Work; profile the county’s own Planning Department; answer some FAQs about Jury Service; and MUCH more.

Join us as we celebrate the diverse tapestry of Berks County, where tradition meets innovation, and community thrives. Berks 1st is your gateway to the stories, people, and initiatives shaping our shared future.

Berks County Commissioners Christian Y. Leinbach, Dante Santoni, Jr. and Michael S. Rivera

2024 Commissioners Town Hall Meeting Schedule

Wednesday, March 20, 2024 • 6:30p.m.

Reading Public Library

100 S. 5th St., Reading 19602 • 610-655-6350

Tuesday, April 9, 2024 • 6:30p.m.

Exeter Community Library

4569 Prestwick Drive, Reading 19606 • 610-406-9431

Tuesday, May 14, 2024 • 6:30p.m.

Bethel-Tulpehocken Public Library

8601 Lancaster Avenue, Bethel 19507 • 717-933-4060

Tuesday, September 24, 2024 • 6:30p.m.

Fleetwood Area Public Library

110 W. Arch St., Fleetwood 19522 • 610-944-0146

Wednesday, October 16, 2024 • 6:30p.m.

Hamburg Public Library

(hosting at Hamburg Borough Hall across the parking lot)

Library: 35 N. Third St., Hamburg 19526

Borough Hall: 61 N Third St

Library: 610-562-2843 • Borough: 610-562-7821

Wednesday, November 13, 2024 • 6:30p.m.

Wyomissing Public Library

9 Reading Blvd., Wyomissing 19610 • 610-374-2385

Getting to Know New County Commissioner Dante Santoni, Jr.

By Jonathan Heintzman, Berks County Public Relations Officer

The County of Berks welcomes Dante Santoni, Jr. to its Board of Commissioners this year. Santoni brings a wealth of political experience to the role, with over 20 years served in the state legislature before retiring in 2012. However, when the opportunity arose to run for County Commissioner, Santoni felt he still had more to offer in the public sector.

“I like to serve the community and I like politics,” Santoni explained simply. “When I retired from the legislature, I didn’t have any plans to get back into the political world. But when the opportunity arose to run for Berks County Commissioner, it fell right into my wheelhouse,” Santoni said.

Santoni said he believes in the capability of a three-member Board of Commissioners to get things done for Berks County residents. “Working within a three-member board is a big difference from working in a 203-member state legislature,” he said. “I think that a smaller group like the Berks County Commissioners can work together in a less partisan fashion than the bigger political groups can.”

Some of Santoni’s top priorities for the county include strengthening relationships between the county and the City of Reading, as he sees their successes as intertwined. He also aims to increase accessibility of elections and ballot-casting within the bounds of the law. Additionally, the current efforts to re-establish passenger rail service between Reading and Philadelphia is another key issue, and one Santoni believes has wide community support.

Santoni’s believes the relationships with state legislators he forged at the state level will be an asset to his work as County Commissioner. “I’ve served alongside [current Pennsylvania] Governor Josh Shapiro and maintained connections with many state representatives and senators. County government often must work with state government. That access and experience I have with state legislators will be a benefit,” he said.

A Berks County native, Santoni grew up in Muhlenberg Township. His first foray into politics and government came in the 1980s when he took a role as the secretary and finance director for Muhlenberg Township. This experience propelled him into working on local political campaigns, eventually making his first run for state representative in 1992.

One signature issue Santoni is proud of shepherding through the legislature is the growth of Pennsylvania’s gaming industry. From his early advocacy for slots to his later role as Chairman of the Gaming Oversight Committee, and then a spot on the state’s Gaming Control Board, Santoni considers his work on gaming’s expansion and the associated tourism, jobs, and economic benefits a career trademark.

As Santoni gets to know the county on this new level, he’s committed to harnessing its full potential. “I think there are a lot of great opportunities here,” he said. While some may suggest Berks should try to emulate other counties, Santoni firmly believes in playing to its existing strengths and assets. He’s particularly excited about the continued growth of the Penn Avenue corridor in West Reading, where he currently resides. With his decades of experience and passion for improving his home county, Santoni is sure to be an asset to the Board of Commissioners. Berks residents can look forward to the perspective and energy he will bring.

You’re Invited to...

Our Patriotic Ceremony July 8, 2024

The Berks County Commissioners would like to invite the public to a patriotic ceremony on Monday, July 8, at the Berks County Liberty Bell within the Berks County Services Center.

The Berks County Liberty Bell was first rung on July 8, 1776, to gather the people of Reading and the county together to hear the first reading of the newly fashioned and ratified Declaration of Independence.

In conjunction with the Berks History Center and America250PA, the County of Berks is displaying the Berks County Liberty Bell with a reproduction of the Declaration of Independence until the end of 2026. The installation is part of a community effort to recognize Berks County’s contribution to our nation’s history as we prepare to celebrate the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 2026.

Learn more: www.america250paberks.com

BERKS COUNTY HISTORIC PHOTO FAIR

The America250 PA-Berks Committee is working on plans for events to celebrate Berks County’s part in America’s 250th birthday in 2026.

museums for events to 2026. We various Berks follow the link and pertinent information.

Photo courtesy of Ruth Haan

BERKS

We are The America250 celebrate invite County below or scan the QR code

We are looking for photos of Berks County historic sites and museums. We invite you to help us by sharing photos you have taken of various Berks County historic sites and museums. To submit photos, follow the link below or scan the QR code to see the list of historic sites and to submit photos and pertinent information.

https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/HTVJ2PG

Countians that were taken prior to vintage photo of any of the listed using the QR code or this link.

https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/HTVJ2PG

BERKS COUNTY VINTAGE PHOTO SEARCH

We are looking for vintage photos of Berks County holiday celebrations and parades. We hope to identify and put on our website some of the oldest photos reflecting our county’s history, such as holiday celebrations and parades. We invite you to help us by sharing your vintage holiday photos of Berks County and Berks Countians that were taken prior to 1960. If you want to help our search, please submit your vintage photo of any of the listed holidays, along with a description and all pertinent information using the QR code or this link.

https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/KZCSQVY

We are looking for vintage celebrations and parades. The America250 PA-Berks Committee to celebrate Berks County's birthday in 2026. We hope website some of the oldest history, such parades. We sharing your 1960 If you holidays, along https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/KZCSQVY

Photo courtesy of Ruth Haan & Helen Roberts

our pact: serving those who served

By Jay Ostrich, Director of Berks County Veterans Affairs

During his second Inaugural Address in 1865, President Abraham Lincoln issued Americans a sacred charge and enduring promise, forever enshrined on the north wall of the Lincoln Memorial, “to care for him who shall have borne the battle and for his widow and his orphan.”

From the Greatest Generation to the latest generation, our mission at Berks County Veterans Affairs (BCVA) is to answer that call to duty by placing Berks County’s 23,000 Veterans first and connecting our Heroes and their families with the benefits and care they’ve earned, while promoting a community that honors their service and supports their optimal wellbeing.

Now with more than 90 years of military service and numerous combat tours between them, the BCVA team has several accredited VA Service Officers and outreach and education ambassadors who are available Monday through Friday to provide guidance and support to Veterans seeking benefits and services.

In essence, our team acts as full-time Veteran advocates and liaisons to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs and its various offices such as the Benefits Administration and the Board of Veterans Appeals, and departments and commissions of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania and Berks County.

Your Berks County team, with more than 93 years of uniformed service, Tina, and Veterans, (l to r) Nathaniel, Will, Jay, and Edwin.

Practically speaking, that means directly helping our Veterans and their families obtain the federal, state, and county benefits for which they are eligible due to their military service. We counsel and assist in preparing and submitting claims and applications for benefits such as service-connected disabilities, dependent indemnity compensation, pensions and gratuities, emergency financial assistance, education benefits, and death and burial benefits.

One of the most recent and expansive increases to Veteran compensation eligibility comes to us via the Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxics or PACT Act of 2022. This federal law rapidly expands VA health care and benefits for Veterans exposed to burn pits, Agent Orange, and other toxic

substances while serving in Vietnam, the Persian Gulf, and post-9/11 Afghanistan, Iraq, and other areas that provided war-time support for Operation Iraqi Freedom, and Operation Enduring Freedom.

The PACT Act adds to the list of health conditions that the VA now presumes were caused by exposure to these substances. This list now includes 11 respiratory-related conditions, along with several forms of cancer, including reproductive cancers, melanoma, pancreatic cancer, kidney cancer, and brain cancers such as glioblastoma.

In August 2021, the VA began processing disability claims for asthma, rhinitis, and sinusitis based on presumed exposure to particulate matter. Veterans who served in the Southwest Asia theater of operations and other areas, and who developed these conditions within ten years of military service, are now eligible to apply for disability benefits and access to VA health care. Unfortunately, far too many of our Veterans remain unaware of their eligibility for benefits and services related to potential military exposures. That’s why we urge them and those who love them to reach out to one of our VSOs and let us connect them with the facts; and when they are eligible, we can help them start a claim.

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In addition to connecting Veterans to their well-earned benefits, we take every opportunity to partner with other county offices, community stakeholders, and leaders to ensure our Veterans are honored for their selfless sacrifice. If you have ideas on how best to do that, our office is eager to hear from you. You can contact BCVA at (610)

pact act-related benef its

As of August 10, 2022, a long list of new conditions are presumed to be service-connected due to various in-service toxic exposures. VA encourages all eligible Veterans and survivors to file a claim—or submit their intent to file a claim—for PACT Actrelated benefits NOW at VA.gov/PACT.

Week of July 4, 2024

Asthma (diagnosed after service)

Chronic bronchitis

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)

Chronic rhinitis

Chronic sinusitis

Constrictive bronchiolitis or obliterative bronchiolitis

Gastrointestinal cancer of any type

Granulomatous disease

Head cancer of any type

High blood pressure (hypertension)

Lymphoma of any type

Monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance (MGUS)

Reproductive cancer of any type, including cervical, ovarian, uterine, vaginal and vulvar

Respiratory (breathing-related) cancer of any type

Interstitial lung disease (ILD)

NEW COUNTY WEB ADDRESS berkspa.gov

The County of Berks is in the midst of various changes to our email, website, and other internet-based systems intended to improve security and access to employees and online visitors. This winter, the Berks County website “countyofberks.com” transitioned to “berkspa. gov”. This affected email addresses for county staff and the County of Berks website.

Moving forward, the “.gov” domain will offer the opportunity for enhanced internet security and reliability. Berks County Information Systems is setting up processes to redirect existing internet traffic automatically to the new domain and additional efforts to make the transition as seamless as possible. Visitors should start using the new web address www.berkspa. gov whenever they want to access the county website. All email from county employees will now be using the “berkspa.gov” domain. Email sent to the old addresses will still be delivered to county staff through 2024.

The decision to move to a “.gov” domain is part of the county’s ongoing commitment to safeguarding sensitive information and ensuring the utmost security for both employees and users of the county website.

We understand that change can sometimes be inconvenient, but we believe that this transition will significantly contribute to a more secure online environment for all users. We appreciate your cooperation and understanding as we work to enhance the security of the county’s digital infrastructure.

Where Do You Go When You Don’t Know Where to Go?

We’re here to help those struggling with addiction secure access to treatment and recovery options! We understand that it takes a tremendous amount of courage to walk through our doors to ask for help, even when one doesn’t want to, or is being forced to seek help. And yet, every day, up to two dozen people come to our office because they’re tired of living the way they’re living and aren’t sure what else to do. Every year, we help over 2,500 people secure access to rehabs and treatment centers across Pennsylvania, to overcome their struggles with addiction to fentanyl, heroin, methamphetamine, cocaine, and alcohol.

TASC has been providing addiction resource services to Berks County residents for over 30 years. While we historically have worked with individuals caught up in the criminal justice system, anyone can receive help from TASC, especially people who are uninsured or covered through Medicaid. We operate on a walk-in, first come/first serve basis from 8am to 4pm, Monday through Friday. We provide telehealth services for individuals who don’t have transportation or can’t get to our office, and we offer appointments on a case-by-case basis for those employed. Our mission is to offer substance use treatment as an alternative to jail, homelessness, family disruption, loss of jobs, and a host of other negative consequences resulting from problematic drug and alcohol use.

Have a loved one suffering with addiction? A recent study revealed that for every person suffering with addiction at least 4-6 people, usually family members, friends, and loved ones, are adversely impacted. Many of these people feel helpless and hopeless because they don’t know where to turn for help. Licensed by the PA Department of Drug and Alcohol Programs (DDAP), TASC conducts level of care assessments using ASAM criteria and makes same-day referrals with transportation to the most appropriate treatment center to help your loved one.

We save thousands of loved ones from the devastating effects of addiction each year. So,please,giveTASCachance! Thenextonecouldbeyours!

610-375-4426

Sponsored by TASC BerksTASC.org

Berks County Agriculture Attracts Substantial Funding & Comprehensive Study

By Amanda Burkard-Sell, Agriculture Program Manager, Berks County Department of Agriculture

Any drive around Berks County is likely to include a scenic backdrop of rolling farmland. With some of the most productive non-irrigated soils in the nation, Berks County’s agriculture is more than just a pretty landscape, it is a driving force of the county’s economy. Current USDA census data indicates that Berks’ 1,800 farms contribute almost $555 million annually in market value. Agriculture provides a local food and fiber source, a variety of jobs, and sustains many other businesses and industries in the region. Supporting agriculture in the county benefits not only the farmers themselves but provides benefits to the county as a whole.

Serious Dollars, Serious Business

In recent years, a variety of federal, state, and other programs focused on best management practices to reduce soil erosion and improve water quality in our region. This has resulted in significant funding for agriculture- and conservation-based projects in Berks County.

For example, over the past ten years, the area has received approximately $13.9 million in funds from the USDA – Natural Resource Conservation Service (NRCS) and an additional $3.4 million was leveraged by Berks Nature, a local non-profit. The Berks County Conservation District has spent $588,000 on farms that directly affect the Chesapeake Bay watershed. The Commonwealth of Pennsylvania has also contributed approximately $5.4 million through the Agricultural Conservation Assistance Program (ACAP), which is funded by the Clean Streams Fund and administered by the Conservation District.

Many of these programs require matching funds and investment from landowners so Berks County farmers have also contributed approximately $4 million in out-of-pocket costs to support these programs. These funding opportunities are ongoing, with the Conservation District and NRCS committing an additional $2.5 million to Berks County in the next two years.

Benefits to Local Farmers and Beyond

These monies have been used to fund a variety of projects on Berks County farms including fencing off stream corridors, building better manure storage systems, and addressing existing soil erosion issues through engineered waterways. Farmers are provided with the necessary funding to update their operations to current conservation standards.

While the benefits of these projects to the farmer are more obvious – financial savings and more efficiency – there is a wider range value to the community, as well. The economy benefits as money goes to local contractors and suppliers. The public gets healthier streams and improved drinking water quality downstream. The investment of these funds has a ripple effect that is felt far beyond the county borders and this long-term commitment to agriculture in the region has lasting impacts.

The County of Berks also takes its commitment to agriculture seriously. Since 1990, the Agricultural Land Preservation Program has preserved 822 farms, totaling over 78,500 acres.

The County’s financial investment currently totals $84.6 million, which was matched by an additional $93.1 million in state funds. Landowners do receive financial compensation for preserving their farm, but this amount is typically far lower than the overall value, with their contribution totaling approximately $41.1 million in donated value. Preserving all of this farmland ensures that a valuable non-renewable resource is protected and provides a solid foundation for the County’s agricultural industry.

“A Clear Strategy”

Berks County’s economic development strategy, IMAGINE Berks, also includes support for agriculture and agribusinesses. To ensure that this support is effective, it is necessary to determine the true overall impact that agriculture and its related businesses have on the region. The Berks County Department of Agriculture has partnered with Agriculture and Community Development Services (ACDS, LLC, www.acds-llc.com) to

conduct a comprehensive study. This two-part project will first analyze the economic impact of agriculture in Berks County and then use that information to develop a strategic action plan to best support the industry’s continued growth. The study will build on existing data and involve the agricultural community through interviews and focus groups.

Pamela Menet, Director of Community & Economic Development for the County, says, “The future of agriculture is important to the future of Berks County. We need to fully appreciate the breadth and diversity of the industry so that we can best support its planned growth.”

Berks County Commissioner Christian Y. Leinbach agrees with the fundamental importance of agriculture in the county, saying, “The Berks County agricultural economy is not only a critical part of our history, it is a key aspect of our economic future. We need a clear strategy to help us get there and this study will provide an “Ag Map” for Berks County in the 21st Century.”

Investing in Berks County agriculture is an investment in the county’s future. It is important to recognize the valuable contributions that the industry provides to the county’s economy and overall quality of life. Berks is fortunate to be in an area where time, attention, and funding continue to be devoted to fostering the growth and development of agriculture.

Look for more information about the agriculture study in the coming months.

Questions or looking for information about funding opportunities?

Contact the Berks County Department of Agriculture: DeptofAg@berkspa.gov or 610-378-1844

www.berkspa.gov/departments/agriculture.

Connections Work A Guide and Resource Through the Justice System

By Peggy Kershner and Nikki Schnovel, Co-Executive Directors, Connections Work

At the height of the social justice movement in the early 1970s, a group of individuals in Berks County was very interested in assisting individuals in the justice system. That group, made up of community leaders, educators, and clergy, established the Berks County Prison Society (BCPS) in 1975. The small staff was reliant upon grass roots efforts and volunteers to fulfill their mission to assist individuals during their incarceration in the Berks County Jail and connect them to services and support upon their release. Nearly 50 years and two names later that organization, now called Connections Work, has grown to become the largest provider of workforce development services to the justice involved in Berks County and is a model for reentry programming across the state.

A strategic expansion of services over the years has resulted in Connections Work becoming an important partner in the local justice system. Among our vital programs, we run a unique Forensic Diversion Program that works to keep the seriously mentally ill out of jail and connect them to appropriate programming. Connections Work also facilitates a Pardon Project that provides assistance with obtaining a pardon from the governor. Connections Work programming aids in maintaining system efficiencies while ensuring the needs of the justice involved are met.

Workforce Development Expertise

Connections Work’s first major expansion and first reentry workforce development effort began in 2010 with the establishment of a reentry program at the Berks County Jail. The program was designed to provide coordinated pre and post-release services to a segment of the jail population. Our role, which continues to this day, is to provide general reentry support with an emphasis on helping participants prepare for employment and obtain a stable job. The successes experienced with this program a decade ago allowed our organization to hone and further define workforce development as our area of expertise.

While the impact at the jail was great, only a small percentage of Berks County’s justice involved were being served. Our agency’s leadership looked to strategically grow our impact by seeking funding to expand these services to specialty populations including participants of the County’s Diversionary Courts, those on state parole, those with serious mental illness, and young adults. Last year, a Focused Grant from a long-time funder and partner, the United Way of Berks County, allowed Connections Work to launch Reentry Works, a workforce development program with the capacity to serve all individuals

in Berks County with current or past justice system involvement! The workforce development programs are staffed by a team of dedicated and experienced case managers. These individuals assist each program participant in establishing an individualized employment plan to not only help them reach their goals, but also to secure and maintain stable employment at a living wage. Early in our work, we identified the myriad of barriers that this target population faces and designed programs to provide resources to overcome them. We can help obtain identification, access transportation, secure basic needs, and obtain employment-required clothing and footwear.

Connections Work’s Employment Development Team (EDT) works diligently with employers in the community to establish relationships and connect them to an often untapped talent pool that is motivated to be great employees. The EDT serves as a liaison between the employer, community, and the case managers to ensure that appropriate individuals are referred for open positions and provide help and support if the need arises. The robust opportunities offered by Connections Work help those we serve put their pasts behind them and become stable and successful members of the community.

Career and Technical Training

In 2017, Connections Work’s portfolio of services was given a major lift with the award of a $1.2 million grant from the U.S. Department of Labor and Industry. That initial funding allowed us to design and launch Rebuilding Reentrants and Reading (R3).

Partners at the Berks County Workforce Development Board provided valuable assistance and helped to design a program focused on the construction trades that combines best practices in career and technical training with best practices in reentry. R3 is an eight-week program that combines a general construction curriculum delivered by the Reading Muhlenberg Career and Technology Center, a woodworking experience at GoggleWorks Center for the Arts, and an evidence-based cognitive intervention delivered by Connections Work staff. Participants receive case management, the support of a mentor and earn a stipend while completing the training.

R3 is the only registered pre-apprenticeship program in Pennsylvania exclusively serving those with justice involvement. The Registered Apprenticeship sponsors for this program are Associated Builders and Contractors Keystone and Eastern PA chapters and the Berks Career and Technology Center. We have been able to sustain the program at the conclusion of the federal grant in 2020 thanks to support from the county, the Berks County Workforce Development Board, PA Labor and Industry, the County Redevelopment Authority, and other funders.

Since the program launched in October 2017, 288 individuals have graduated from 33 cohorts. The recidivism rate for graduates one year post graduation is typically less than 5%, as compared to the national average of 46%, and the rate of stable employment is 65% compared to the national average of 26%.

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Additional Programs

Connections Work programming runs the gamut of the justice system. We have operated Berks County’s Pretrial Program since 1985. This program helps promote an equitable, pretrial system by providing judges with information to base their bail decisions, supervising individuals on pretrial release, and assisting with population management at the Berks County Jail.

Connections Work operates the Mother’s/Father’s Voice Program, which helps maintain the bond between parent and child by allowing incarcerated individuals to read a storybook for their young children on video. We send a copy of the video and book to the child and their caregiver. Other programs include the Reentry Resource Center that helps meet the immediate needs of the justice involved and a Holiday Gift Program for Children with Incarcerated Parents.

What’s Next for Connections Work

Connections Work has grown tremendously in the service of the justice involved, yet there remains a large segment of our community who struggle with similar barriers and who would benefit from involvement in our programming. Last year, we obtained funding from the Council on Chemical Abuse to launch Recovery Works, a first-time workforce development initiative that allows us to serve those not impacted by the justice system. This marks the next step in our strategic growth – to broaden our programs and services to include strategies designed to reduce the likelihood of justice system involvement. Many of the employer partners and fellow social service agencies have recognized the value of the cognitive interventions infused in the Connections Work’s workforce programming. They have expressed an interest in learning how to replicate the successful outcomes their programs produce. In response, they have designed and implemented Employee Essentials, a training program that incorporates the foundational aspects of their work. It is anticipated that this contracted service will increase employability and job retention, having a widespread positive impact on even more in the community.

How Can You Help

To learn more and how you can be part of Connections Work’s life changing and community improving work as a donor, volunteer, or partner, please contact Development@ ConnectionsWork.org. If you or someone you know is struggling with the barriers created by justice involvement, have them visit our office at 19 North 6th Street, 4th Floor, in Reading between 8 AM and 5 PM Monday through Friday. Services are free and walk-ins are welcome. Visit ConnectionsWork.org to learn more!

Understanding Addiction: TREATMENT WORKS

By Dr. William Santoro, Chief, Division of Addiction Medicine, Tower Health Medical Group

When people think of a medical illness, often the first thought is what the illness can potentially do to the body or the patient. Pneumonia. What will it do to me or my loved one’s lungs? Hypertension. How will that affect me or my loved one’s heart? Myocardial infarction or stroke. How will that affect me or my loved one’s ability to do activities of daily living? Cancer. How will that affect me or my loved one’s lifespan?

Addiction causes or worsens a vast array of problems including medical, psychological, psychiatric, social, family, spiritual, academic, occupational, legal, and financial. Addiction is associated with a decreased life span and a worsening of multiple psychiatric problems such as mood, anxiety, and psychotic disorders. Patients with addiction and psychiatric illness are less likely to comply with treatment, which results in increased morbidity and mortality.

Addiction is one of the few medical conditions that is 100% preventable, and when not prevented, causes more pain and suffering among the family members of the patient suffering the illness, especially children. When comparing the risk of children suffering from a disease that a parent has, addiction has a higher risk of being passed on to a child than diabetes has of being passed on to a child of a parent with diabetes. And even if a child does not go on to have a substance use disorder, addiction causes more pain and suffering to a child of a parent with addiction than diabetes does to a child of a parent with diabetes.

Children with a parent dealing with addiction or an addicted parent are at increased risk for academic, behavioral, and psychiatric problems. Furthermore, a child raised by a parent with a substance use disorder has an increased risk for substance use problems themselves. Many family members who die because of their addiction are adolescents or young adults. Many of these young adults have young children of their own. I am going to try to convey in writing the pain and negative

impact that addiction has on a family or individual members. Society is also affected in so many negative ways by addiction. Problems such as motor vehicle accidents, poverty, criminal behaviors, homelessness, and higher rates of transmission of infectious diseases are all worsened by addiction. But the cost and effect on the family unit is far greater than all other costs of addiction. Our goal should be to increase our knowledge of prevention, intervention, treatment, and referral strategies for addiction problems.

Addiction does not have to be a death sentence. Treatment is available. Treatment can be in the form of medication for substance use disorders such as alcohol, opiates, and tobacco. The standard of care for treating opiate use disorder is now medication including naltrexone, buprenorphine, and methadone. The best success in treating addiction is combining medication, psychosocial treatment, peer support (12-step meetings), and working with a patient to reconnect with their spiritual beliefs.

I often get questioned about the success of different treatments for addiction. During one conference I presented statistics showing a certain treatment increased the likelihood a patient with addiction would be able to extend recovery six months longer than a person without this treatment. An audience member asked if an additional six months of recovery was worth the cost of the treatment. My response was to ask if such a question would come up if we were discussing treatment for cancer. I pointed out that a parent with an extra six months of recovery could engage with a child. With an extra six months that parent could go to a baseball game or celebrate a birthday with that child. What I hope to convey is that there is a broad array of evidence-based interventions for prevention and treatment of addiction. Each of us can make a difference in the lives of loved ones and families who are affected by addiction.

Sponsored by the Council on Chemical Abuse Your Bridge to Addiction Resources www.cocaberks.org

A Piece of Berks County History

Preserved at Gruber Wagon Works

By Jonathan Heintzman, Berks County Public Relations Officer

Asnapshot of Berks County’s past sits comfortably near the banks of the Tulpehocken Creek. The Gruber Wagon Works provides a historic window into the county’s early transportation history and the importance of this industry to the region in the 19th and into the 20th centuries.

Twenty years after the Civil War, Franklin H. Gruber built a factory along the banks of Licking Creek in rural Berks County to house the wagon repair and construction business that he had founded, the original Gruber Wagon Works. For decades, the Gruber family crafted wagons, wheelbarrows, carts, and agricultural implements through the years of peak construction during the turn of the 20th century. Technology advanced, as it always does, and the last Gruber Wagon was built in 1957.

Bruce Hunsberger is an editor and contributing writer to the historical book, The Gruber Wagon Works – The Place Where Time Stood Still. He said in the book’s introduction, “The Gruber Wagon Works isn’t unique because it was the only wagon factory in Berks or even the biggest. The Gruber Wagon Works is unique because it exists.” When so many other factories evolved with advancing technology or succumbed to the ravages of time or disaster, the

Gruber Wagon Works endured. When Franklin H.’s grandson, Frank P. Gruber, took over the factory in 1956, he continued operating a general repair shop out of the factory until 1972.

“Though many machines were no longer used when grandson, Frank, became owner,” Hunsberger wrote, “he left them behind in their original locations and kept them in working order, unknowingly acting as curator of his own living museum, which remains as a physical bridge from today back to a time when everything was handmade.”

That idyllic spot by the creek that housed the Wagon Works for so long was threatened in the mid-1970s when it was determined that Blue Marsh Dam would be built and the Wagon Works would be consumed by the newly created Blue Marsh Lake. During the process of surveying for the Blue Marsh Lake project, the Army Corps of Engineers rediscovered the intact wagon works in the 1970s. Recognizing the building’s historical significance, preservationists, including descendant Elsie Gruber, rallied to save the workshop from destruction.

“Elsie really was the driving force in the effort to maintain and preserve the Wagon Works,” said Beth Hartman, family member of the current generation of Gruber descendants. From 1974 to 1976, the Wagon Works was carefully studied, catalogued, photographed, and dismantled piece-by-piece and moved to its current home at the Berks County Heritage Center. Workers meticulously numbered each timber, brick, and nail to aid in reassembly. The workshop was restored to its original form to within an eighth of an inch. The Heritage Center site was chosen for the new home of the Wagon Works in part to showcase Berks County’s early transportation history, including the adjacent Union Canal.

Today, visitors can tour the workshop to glimpse the county’s wagon-making heritage. Inside, they find a dirt floor, handhewn beams, and wagons in different stages of completion. Cathy Wegener, Berks County Director of Parks and Recreation, said that the Gruber Wagon Works is an important and iconic part of the educational and historical offerings at the Berks County Heritage Center just off Rt. 222, near the Reading Regional Airport.

continued on next page

“The Gruber Wagon Works has earned the same prestigious National Historic Landmark designation as the iconic Liberty Bell has,” Wegener said. “The Wagon Works just isn’t quite as famous.”

Tour guides lead guests through the Wagon Works while explaining how wagons were built and used, highlighting the craftsmanship involved, from selecting and milling wood to fitting and assembling parts. Wegener said that the Wagon Work’s new location was even faithful to the shop’s original orientation allowing the north-facing windows to provide ample light for fine woodworking.

Beyond the wagon building, the site provides broader insights into early Berks County life. Farmers regularly visited the shop for repairs and new equipment needed to transport goods to market. The shop’s longevity and the family’s German roots also illustrate the prominent role of Pennsylvania German culture.

Wegener said the Wagon Works’ greatest legacy is to teach about our region’s history. “The biggest goal,” she said, “is to educate. Hundreds of school children visit the Wagon Works every year.”

Maintaining the original Wagon Works and ensuring that the workshop remains in good condition to continue educating future generations is the prime goal of the Society for the Preservation of the Gruber Wagon Works. Barry Kauffman, Executive Director of the Society, praises everyone involved with the preservation of the Wagon Works, from local and family advocates to county, state, and national officials who recognized the importance of this project. “There were so many Berks Countians who had a role in promoting and endorsing the preservation of the Wagon Works. The Society

for the Preservation of the Gruber Wagon Works now needs to take this effort into the future and make sure that this snapshot of this way of life remains available to everyone,” Kauffman said.

The preservation of the history of the Wagon Works is a trait that runs through the family. Several family descendants have been members of the Society for the Preservation of the Gruber Wagon Works. Hartman authored a children’s book on her father-in-law’s (Frank P. Gruber’s nephew) memories of the Wagon Works titled A Place I Called Home.

In 2010, the site underwent an extensive restoration project to repair structural issues in the 200-year-old building. Workers carefully replaced deteriorating roof beams, added supports, and restored windows. “It’s all about preserving the integrity of the original structure,” Kauffman said. Ongoing upkeep is constant, from checking the building’s stability to monitoring for insect damage.

Just as it stood for years along Licking Creek, the Gruber Wagon Works remains a community pillar. “It represents the hardworking people of Berks County,” Wegener said, adding that the workshop exemplifies the region’s craftsmanship and innovation that drove local industry. For residents, the site provides a direct connection to their heritage. As Berks County evolves, preserving this touchstone of its past ensures future generations understand the people, culture, and traditions that built the community. Thanks to the dedication of a legion of advocates, the Gruber Wagon Works will continue welcoming visitors for years to come.

But it doesn’t last forever.

(Many thanks to the Society for the Preservation of the Gruber Wagon Works. Much of the material for this article is sourced from their book, The Gruber Wagon Works: The Place Where Time Stood Still.

THE ROLE OF K9 UNITS IN THE BERKS COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICE

By Jonathan Heintzman, Berks County Public Relations Officer

Law Enforcement relies on strong partnerships. Among the Deputies in the Berks County Sheriff’s Office, there are few stronger partnerships than those between K9 Unit canines and their handlers. The highly trained Berks County K9 teams play a pivotal role in law enforcement and upholding public safety. Although we often see K9 units out in our communities, their diverse professional functions, the breeds they employ, and the profound impact they have are often misunderstood.

UNDERSTANDING THE ROLES

Captain Guy Lehman, head of the K9 Program of the Berks County Sheriff’s Office, explained that the office has three types of dogs within its K9 units: patrol- and narcotics-trained dogs, patrol- and explosives-trained dogs, and single-purpose

explosive-trained dogs. Each category serves a unique purpose, contributing to the overall safety and security of the community. The single-purpose explosive detection dog stands ready to respond to bomb threats, conducting sweeps at critical locations like community centers or school buildings. Their primary focus is to detect and neutralize potential threats, ensuring the safety of the community.

The patrol dogs, equipped with dual training in criminal apprehension and narcotics detection, play a crucial role in assisting the warrants unit. These versatile dogs are called into action for building searches, tracking suspects, and aiding in vehicle stops. Their strength, agility and keen sense of smell contribute significantly to the apprehension of individuals avoiding law enforcement.

Berks County currently operates with five active K9 units –two explosives canines and three narcotics/patrol canines. The recent retirement of a handler also led to the departure of one of that handler’s canine, underlining the bond and commitment between handlers and their four-legged partners.

HANDLER DEDICATION AND SELECTION PROCESS

To become a K9 handler in the Berks County Sheriff’s Office, deputies undergo a rigorous selection process. This includes a physical agility test, interviews, home visits, and consultations with spouses or partners to ensure a suitable living environment for the canine. The handler’s commitment is paramount, requiring at least a five-year commitment to the position. The bond between a handler and their canine partner is crucial for effective collaboration. Handlers are carefully matched with their dogs based on personality traits, plus other critical factors like the presence of small children in the handler’s home. A careful match between handler and canine can foster the strong bond and effective communication and cooperation that are essential for the team’s success in the field.

“There’s quite a bond between a handler and a dog,” Captain Lehman said. “We’re with our canine partner more than we are with our families. We’re with our dog every day, all day. We’re not with our families that much. So, in order to have the dogs work to their full potential, we need that strong bond between canine and handler. That can take time to evaluate and develop.”

CANINE VARIETY AND CHARACTERISTICS

While German Shepherds have traditionally been the breed of choice for K9 units, the Berks County Sheriff’s Office has diversified its selection to include Belgian Malinois, Dutch Shepherds, and even a Black Labrador for single-purpose explosive detection. The choice of breeds is influenced by specific characteristics required for different tasks, such as a high hunt drive for detection work and a dominant, protective nature for apprehension duties.

CONTINUOUS TRAINING

Training is an ongoing and vital aspect of the K9 units’ operations. The national minimum standard requires 16 hours of monthly training, covering various scenarios from tracking to aggression control. The office goes above and beyond, encouraging daily interactions between handlers and their dogs, ensuring they remain sharp and ready for duty.

Monthly structured training sessions bring together K9 units from Berks County and the City of Reading. These sessions facilitate collaborative learning and enhance the overall proficiency of the teams. Beyond structured training, handlers engage in daily exercises, fostering an unbreakable bond between the officer and their canine companion. continued on next page

Captain Lehman stresses that each dog has plenty of time in every day just to be a dog. “The dogs and their partners put in a long day and then the handler takes them home, and the kids are crawling over top of them, pulling their ears, and playing together. I love that part, that dichotomy, that the canines can be such an invaluable asset to the Sheriff’s Office, and then at home, they’re just a dog,” Lehman says smiling.

VALUE AND COMMUNITY SUPPORT

The value of K9 units to the Berks County Sheriff’s Office extends beyond their immediate role in law enforcement. These teams are force multipliers, aiding in manpower issues, enhancing officer safety, and ensuring efficient crime detection. Their versatility of the K9 teams allows them to cover expansive areas, making them indispensable assets for Law Enforcement.

One notable aspect highlighted by the K9 unit is the community’s generous support. While the office receives an annual contribution from the county, community donations play a crucial role in sustaining the unit. Merchandise sales, demonstrations, and fundraising efforts contribute to covering expenses such as vet bills, insurance, specialized equipment, and ongoing training.

The K9 units of the Berks County Sheriff’s Office embodies dedication, commitment, and service to the community. These remarkable teams, comprised of highly trained deputies and their loyal canine partners, work tirelessly to ensure public safety. Beyond their crime-fighting capabilities, the K9 units thrive on community support, reflecting a collective commitment to maintaining a secure and thriving environment in Berks County.

VALUE OF COMMUNITY DONATIONS TO THE SHERIFF’S OFFICE K9 UNITS

The process of maintaining a K9 unit is no small feat. From training to daily upkeep, the costs can be significant. Captain Guy Lehman, program head of the Sheriff’s Office K9 Unit, sheds light on the unique challenges faced by the K9 program.“They're expensive—the training, the upkeep—but they’re an invaluable asset,” Captain Lehman emphasizes.

Captain Lehman highlighted the specialized needs of the furry deputies. Special vehicles equipped to maintain optimal temperatures year-round are a necessity. The K9 unit's “office” is their vehicle, and they spend countless hours traveling in them to ensure the safety and security of the community.

However, not all law enforcement agencies are fortunate enough to afford these specialized resources. Many departments face budgetary constraints, leading them to seek assistance from the Berks County Sheriff's Office K9 Units. Lehman said it was a shared duty to collaborate, support, and provide services to law enforcement departments in other municipalities.

Yet, the financial challenges persist. Community donations fund essential aspects of the K9 program, from veterinary care and food to training and equipment.

“We truly appreciate the continuous support we receive from local businesses, such as Pet Supplies Plus and Country Pet Hideaway, who generously contribute to the office. We’re thankful to the community for their generosity,” Lehman said.

Donations can be made to the Friends of Berks County Sheriff K9 Unit through the Berks County Community Foundation. In-kind donations can be arranged with the K9 Unit through the Sheriff’s Office.

The Berks County Sheriff's Office K9 program stands as a testament to the power of community collaboration. Through the collective efforts of law enforcement, local businesses, and residents, these four-legged heroes continue to serve and protect, demonstrating that a united community can make a significant impact in ensuring public safety.

RECYCLING IN BERKS COUNTY

Paper Shredding

Free to Berks County Residents

April 20, 2024

Governor Mifflin Intermediate School

600 Governor Drive Shillington, Pa. 19607

All residents must pre-register to participate in our paper shredding event

Absolutely no plastic bags will be accepted.

Hazardous Waste

Free to Berks County Residents

April 13, 2024

Governor Mifflin Intermediate School

600 Governor Drive Shillington, Pa. 19607

All residents must pre-register to participate in our hazardous waste collection event

Absolutely no Latex Paint will be accepted Put all empty containers in your regular trash collection

Electronics

Free to Berks County Residents

Open every

Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday from 8:00 AM - Noon 1316 Hilltop Rd., Leesport, Pa. (Bern Twp.)

All Visitors Must Remain In Their Vehicle, While On Site.

Please Have All Electronics In The Truck Of Your Car Or Bed Of Pickup Truck

https://www.berkspa.gov/departments/solid-waste-authority

Picking a President is a Delegate Process

By Stephanie Nojiri, Assistant Director, Office of Election Services

While Presidential Election years always attract high turnout numbers and lively discussions, most voters know very little about the other Primary ballot contest that plays a pivotal role in the process.

During the Primary, voters elect delegates to represent their state at their political party’s national convention. While voters across the country will select their preferred presidential candidate on their Primary ballot, the delegates they elect are the ones who will ultimately select their party’s Presidential nominee for the fall.

At the party national conventions, groups of delegates from each state vote for their presidential candidate of choice. The conventions, which are televised, last for several days and feature speeches and demonstrations in support of the various candidates. The delegates then vote, state by state, to select a candidate. The first candidate to receive a majority of delegate votes becomes the party’s presidential candidate. The chosen presidential candidate then selects a vice presidential candidate.

Delegates will also approve the party’s platform and adopt rules that will govern their party during the national conventions.

The Democratic and Republican parties differ in how they name and allocate delegates, based on their party’s governing rules. Both parties select most of their delegates by Congressional District. The Republican party allows the voters in each of the 17 districts to elect three delegates and three alternate delegates. The Democratic party uses a formula that considers party registration statistics and the average vote from prior Presidential years to determine how many delegates each district will elect.

There are three Congressional Districts within Berks County. The following table shows how many delegates will be elected from each district:

Those interested in becoming delegates file petitions with their party’s state committee to earn a spot on the Primary ballot. That list is shared with the various candidates for their review and input, until it is finalized in February. Delegates are often party insiders, activists, or early supporters of a specific candidate. To learn more about the process and the delegate candidates, contact your local or state party committee.

What’s on the Ballot?

This year’s ballot features federal and statewide races. During the Primary, voters choose their party’s nominees to run in the General Election in November. Pennsylvania holds a closed Primary, which means only registered members of the party can vote for that party’s candidates. Ballots in Berks County will include the following offices for the 2024 General Primary:

• President of the United States

• United States Senator

• Representative in Congress

4th District

6th District

9th District

• Attorney General

• Auditor General

• State Treasurer

• Senator in the General Assembly

11th District

13th District

• Representative in the General Assembly

5th District

99th District

124th District

126th District

127th District

128th District

129th District

130th District

If you are a lawful permanent resident (green card holder) and are planning to apply for U.S. citizenship, our Gateway to Citizenship program is for you! Act now!

• Delegate to the National Convention (Republican and Democratic)

Learn about civics, American history and the U.S. government

• Alternate Delegate to the National Convention (Republican)

Practice English vocabulary, literacy and conversation skills needed for citizenship

Once finalized, sample ballots for each precinct will be available on our website: www.berkspa.gov/elections.

Important Dates for the

Learn what to expect on the day of your Citizenship test

2024 General Primary:

Last day to register to vote: April 8 Register to vote at www.vote.pa.gov/register.

Connect with our immigration specialist partners at Aldea, who can help to answer your questions about the citizenship process

Last day to apply for a mail-in or absentee ballot: April 16 Apply for a mail-in or absentee ballot at www.vote.pa.gov/apply-mail-in. All voted mail-in and absentee ballots must be received by the Berks County Office of Election Services by 8 p.m. on Election Day to be counted. Ballots can be sent via mail or dropped off in the office or one of the county’s drop boxes.

Election Day: April 23 Polls open 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. Find your polling place at www.vote.pa.gov/polls.

Free Citizenship Preparation Classes

Free Citizenship Preparation Classes

If you are a lawful permanent resident (green card holder) and are planning to apply for U.S. citizenship, our Gateway to Citizenship program is for you! Act now!

Free Citizenship Preparation Classes

Free Citizenship Preparation Classes

Learn about civics, American history and the U.S. government

Free Citizenship Preparation

Free Citizenship Preparation Classes

Practice English vocabulary, literacy and conversation skills needed for citizenship

Classes

If you are a lawful permanent resident (green card holder) and are planning to apply for U.S. citizenship, our Gateway Citizenship program is for you! Act now!

If you are a lawful permanent resident (green card holder) and are planning to apply for U.S. citizenship, our Gateway to Citizenship program is for you! Act now!

Learn what to expect on the day of your Citizenship test

Connect with our immigration specialist partners at Aldea, who can help to answer your questions about the citizenship process

Learn more!

Open House

Apr. 2 & Apr. 4, 2024

Jun. 25 & Jun. 27, 2024

Sept. 24 & Sept. 25, 2024

Dec. 17 & Dec. 19, 2024

9:00 a.m.

Christ Episcopal Church 435 Court Street Reading, PA 19601

Learn Open Apr. 2 & Apr. Jun. 25 & Jun. Sept. 24 & Sept. Dec. 17 & Dec.

Learn about civics, American history and the U.S. government

Learn about civics, American history and the U.S. government

Practice English vocabulary, literacy and conversation skills needed for citizenship

Practice English vocabulary, literacy and conversation skills needed for citizenship

9:00

Christ Episcopal

6:30 p.m.

Learn what to expect on the day of your Citizenship test

Literacy Council of Reading-Berks

35 S. Dwight Street West Lawn, PA 19609

Register Now!

Register Now!

Learn what to expect on the day your Citizenship test

435 Court

Reading, 6:30

Literacy

Reading

Connect with our immigration specialist partners at Aldea, who can help to answer your questions about the citizenship process

Connect with our immigration specialist partners at Aldea, who can help to answer your questions about the citizenship process

35 S. Dwight West Lawn, Register

Navigating Jury Services in Pennsylvania: An Essential Guide

By Jonathan Heintzman, Berks County Public Relations Officer

Jury service is a civic responsibility as old as our nation itself. It plays a crucial role in the American justice system. In Pennsylvania, where the legacy of democracy runs deep, participating in a jury is not just a duty but a privilege. It is a statement and an act of citizenship alongside serving in the military, voting, and paying taxes.

However, for many individuals, the process can be mystifying and occasionally inconvenient. The nuances of jury service in Pennsylvania can vary somewhat from county to county. Read on for information on some of the most common questions and concerns about serving on a jury. Much of the information below can also be found in the Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) section of the Berks County Jury Services webpage –www.berkspa.gov/departments/js

Average Length of Jury Service

Christina Yatron, the Jury Program Supervisor for Berks County, says that one of the most misunderstood parts of jury service is the average length of jury service. She said, “Most of our trials last one to two days, but many people expect trials/jury service to last a week or longer. The Courts do everything possible to make the jury service experience the least disruptive for jurors as possible, and to keep cases moving quickly.” Trials can happen any day of the week. Jurors are summoned randomly from county election rolls only on days that trials are expected to begin.

How to Request Excusal for Jury Service

While serving on a jury is considered a civic responsibility, there are instances where potential jurors may find themselves unable to fulfill this obligation due to extenuating circumstances. Pennsylvania Law allows for exemption from jury service. Valid exemptions include but are not limited to: persons in active military service, and persons who demonstrate undue hardship or extreme inconvenience. If you have any questions regarding exemption from serving on a jury, please contact Jury Services, between the hours of 8 a.m. and 5 p.m Monday through Friday., by calling (610) 478-6401.

What to Do if You Are Sick or Unable to Appear

Life is unpredictable, and sometimes unforeseen circumstances can prevent individuals from appearing for jury service on the scheduled date. If you find yourself in this situation, it’s crucial to communicate with the court as soon as possible. According to Yatron, “If you have any symptoms of illness, please DO NOT report. However, you must contact jury staff as soon as possible.” The contact phone number for Jury Services is 610-478-6402 and email is jury@berkspa.gov. This information is also on our website and on the jury summonses. Ignoring the summons without proper communication can result in legal consequences, so it’s essential to be proactive and transparent about your situation.

Employer Time Off for Jury Service

Balancing civic duty with professional responsibilities can be a concern for many individuals summoned for jury service. In Pennsylvania, the law is clear on this matter – employers are required to provide employees with time off for jury service. However, employers may have specific policies regarding compensation during jury service, so it’s advisable to discuss these matters with your Human Resources department well in advance.

Additionally, employees should keep their employers informed about their jury service schedule and any potential disruptions to work. Communication is key, and most employers appreciate openness and transparency when it comes to fulfilling civic duties.

Serving on a jury in Pennsylvania is an integral part of the democratic process, ensuring that justice is dispensed fairly and impartially. While the prospect of jury service may seem daunting, understanding the processes and options available can make the experience more manageable.

If faced with challenges such as appealing jury service or dealing with scheduling conflicts, it’s crucial to address these issues promptly and in accordance with the guidelines set by the local court. By doing so, individuals can fulfill their civic duty while minimizing any potential disruptions to their personal and professional lives.

Remember, jury service is not just a responsibility – it’s an opportunity to actively contribute to the legal system and uphold the principles upon which the nation was founded. Embracing this duty with a sense of civic pride can turn what may initially seem like an inconvenience into a meaningful and rewarding experience.

at the Library

By Emily Orischak, Community Relations Coordinator, Berks County Public Libraries

Summer Quest is your library’s annual summer program designed to entertain and inspire young minds through fun activities and exploration, but there’s more to this annual event than most people know.

While library staff offer programs year round, summer is where they truly shine by offering increased learning opportunities blended with fun and games.

Ask any student what they’re most looking forward to this summer and “learning” isn’t likely to be their answer. But did you know that keeping kids challenged and engaged throughout the summer could mean the difference in their academic achievements later in life?

There are debates over whether academic learning loss during summer vacation (notably called the “summer slide”) disproportionately affects students of lower-income families, but data published in a 2023 Brookings Institute article from Northwest Evaluation Association researchers indicated test scores flatten or drop over the summer across both low- and high-poverty households.

Imagine a world where every child and youth feel the warmth of a loving home, where their dreams are supported and their potential is unlocked. Foster care is the bridge that connects vulnerable children and youth with the promise of a better tomorrow.

Public libraries aid in combatting the summer slide by providing quality enriching programming to keep each child’s learning momentum going all summer long—all while providing a fun (and free!) experience for young minds.

The Adventure Begins at your Library

Summer Quest has been around for decades having once been called the Summer Reading Program. Historically, Berks County libraries used the summer to promote continued reading, but the program evolved over the last few years to integrate other forms of learning and provide stronger, high-quality learning opportunities for kids of all ages.

Children are encouraged to continue reading throughout the summer, but they can also participate in various programming events including live animal encounters, robotics courses, and the artist-in-residence series.

Foster Care: Igniting Hope in Every Heart

Fostering is not just an act of kindness; it’s an investment in a brighter future. Countless children and youth find themselves facing the uncertainty of an unstable home environment. Through no fault of their own, circumstances have led them to the doors of foster care. These young people carry dreams, aspirations and untapped potential, waiting for someone to believe in them.

“Summer Quest’s new focus on varied and diverse programming and topics allows children more choice in what and how they learn,” notes Marissa Guidara, youth services district consultant for Reading District Libraries. “And when kids have a voice in their own education, they are so much more excited to learn.”

Each library begins their Summer Quest program soon after the last day of school for their district and continues throughout most of the summer. In addition to the unique and educational experiences available through the library, children can also earn prizes along the way including toys, gift cards, and electronics.

staff help with every step of the way. It’s about creating a supportive environment for children and youth to thrive. It’s important to note that the goal of foster care is typically to provide a temporary and safe living arrangement for children until they can be reunified with their biological families or find a permanent adoptive placement.

Be sure to follow your local library on social media for additional information about Summer Quest 2024! Go to www.berkslibraries.org for more information.

Currently, there are approximately 15,000 children and teens in foster care in Pennsylvania. Parental sub-stance abuse and neglect are the most common reasons for children and youth to be placed in foster care. Foster parents play a crucial role in providing stability and love to these children and youth who have experienced trauma or difficult circumstances.

we become the architects of hope. Foster care is not just a responsibility; it’s an opportunity to shape the future positively.

Imagine a world where every child and youth feel the warmth of a loving home, where their dreams are supported, and their potential is unlocked. Foster care is the bridge that connects vulnerable children and youth with the promise of a better tomorrow.

Currently, there are approximately 15,000 children and teens in foster care in Pennsylvania. Parental substance abuse and neglect are the most common reasons for children and youth to be placed in foster care. Foster parents play a crucial role in providing stability and love to these children and youth who have experienced trauma or difficult circumstances.

Fostering is not just an act of kindness; it’s an investment in a brighter future. Countless children and youth find themselves facing the uncertainty of an unstable home environment. Through no fault of their own, circumstances have led them to the doors of foster care. These young people carry dreams, aspirations and untapped potential, waiting for someone to believe in them.

It provides stability, love and a sense of belonging. As a foster parent, you become a beacon of hope, guiding children and youth toward a path of success. Make no mistake, you will be tested and stretched, but overcoming adversity to help a young person flourish is priceless.

One foster youth shared, “Family isn’t always about blood. It’s about the people who stand by you when you need them the most. A lot of times, that’s your foster family. The support I got from mine changed my life.”

We, as a community, have the power to transform lives. By opening our hearts and homes to these young people, we become the architects of hope. Foster care is not just a responsibility; it’s an opportunity to shape the future positively.

Imagine a world where every child and youth feel the warmth of a loving home, where their dreams are supported and their potential is unlocked. Foster care is the bridge that connects vulnerable children and youth with the promise of a better tomorrow.

One foster youth shared, “Family isn’t always about blood. It’s about the people who stand by you when you need them the most. A lot of times, that’s your foster family. The support I got from mine changed my life.”

There are misconceptions surrounding foster care that hinder potential caregivers from stepping forward. We want to dispel these myths and- embrace the truth – Foster care is a journey of love, growth and resilience that our Diakon staff help with every step of the way. It’s about creating a supportive environment for children and youth to thrive. It’s important to note that the goal of foster care is typically to provide a temporary and safe living arrangement for children until they can be reunified with their biological families or find a permanent adoptive placement.

Foster care isn’t just a system; it’s a collective responsibility. Together, let’s build a community where all children and youth feel loved, valued and empowered. Join us as we help you on your journey to foster hope.

Fostering is not just an act of kindness; it’s an investment in a brighter future. Countless children and youth find themselves facing the uncertainty of an unstable home environment. Through no fault of their own, circumstances have led them to the doors of foster care. These young people carry dreams, aspirations and untapped potential, waiting for someone to believe in them.

There are misconceptions surrounding foster care that hinder potential caregivers from stepping forward. We want to dispel these myths and- embrace the truth – Foster care is a journey of love, growth and resilience that our Diakon staff help with every step of the way. It’s about creating a supportive environment for children and youth to thrive. It’s important to note that the goal of foster care is typically to provide a temporary and safe living arrangement for children until they can be reunified with their biological families or find a permanent adoptive placement.

It provides stability, love and a sense of belonging. As a foster parent, you become a beacon of hope, guiding children and youth toward a path of success. Make no mistake, you will be tested and stretched, but overcoming adversity to help a young person flourish is priceless.

It provides stability, love and a sense of belonging. As a foster parent, you become a beacon of hope, guiding children and youth toward a path of success. Make no mistake, you will be tested and stretched, but overcoming adversity to help a young person flourish is priceless.

Foster care isn’t just a system; it’s a collective responsibility. Together, let’s build a community where all children and youth feel loved, valued and empowered. Join us as we help you on your journey to foster hope.

We, as a community, have the power to transform lives. By opening our hearts and homes to these young people,

One foster youth shared, “Family isn’t always about blood. It’s about the people who stand by you when you need them the most. A lot of times, that’s your foster fam ily. The support I got from mine changed my life.”

For more information, please email recruitment@diakon.org or visit our website at diakon.org/adoption.

For more information, please email recruitment@diakon.org or visit our website at diakon.org/adoption.

Foster care isn’t just a system; it’s a collective responsibility. Together, let’s build a community where all children and youth feel loved, valued and empowered. Join us as we help you on your journey to foster

We, as a community, have

Parks & Recreation Launches Online Program Registration and Rental

By Lauren Adele Little, PR & Marketing Coordinator, Berks County Parks & Recreation

Do you ever feel like going on the prowl for owls? Do you want to borrow a fishing rod and try your hand at catching a fish? Would your child like to try out screenprinting or making paper? Not only does the Berks County Parks & Recreation Department bring you the programming to try all these things, now it’s even easier to register to participate!

In January of 2024, Berks County Parks & Recreation started using RecDesk which allows visitors to register for programs and rent facilities online. Now, you can be sitting at home and as soon as you see a program in which you may be interested, you can register immediately, 24 hours a day.

Over the last year the department met with different vendors, got recommendations from other counties’ Parks & Recreation Departments and decided that, in the end, RecDesk was the most streamlined and easiest to use.

Now that RecDesk is in use, there are links in each Facebook event and website listing where you can immediately register for programs. You might want to hurry and register for some of those programs! They can fill up fast!

During your first time on the site, you can create an account which makes each subsequent registration even easier and more streamlined. You can add members of your family as ‘household members’. Then, when registering, you can select each member who is to attend. Registering each person who is attending a program is necessary so the event organizers can have an accurate count, particularly when there are space restrictions.

Registrants can choose to be notified about the event and get reminders, so you will never miss events like “Wellness Walk” you were really pumped about when you registered three months in advance.

There are hidden benefits to RecDesk, as well. Programs can now have an official waitlist and staff can quickly contact program registrants in case of changes of location or postponements due to weather.

The reviews for RecDesk have been good. The Parks staff is so excited to be able to utilize the system and make their programming more accessible for everyone. Scan the QR code or follow a link to try it out for yourself.

Municipal News

Union Township

www.unionberks.org

Union Township encourages everyone to visit our website, www.unionberks.org. On our website you can locate everything from meeting agendas, permit applications, fee schedules, ordinances, past and current newsletters, upcoming Park and Recreation events and contact information for the Township Office. You can also follow us on Facebook.

Upper Tulpehocken Township

www.UpperTulpehockenTownship.com

Please visit www.UpperTulpehockenTownship.com for all Upper Tulpehocken Twp. & Strausstown Village information. Supervisor meetings are held the second Tuesday of every month at 6 pm. Residents are encouraged to attend. Strausstown Lions Club Easter Egg Hunt– ages 2-12–March 30 at 2 pm. Strausstown Volunteer Fire Company Monthly Breakfast with a full menu –2nd Sunday of every month –7:30am-11:30 am.

Laureldale Borough

www.Laureldaleboro.org

Upcoming borough events: Sundaes in the Park event at Dominic Manzella Park, April 28, 1-6pm (Rain Date, May 5); Borough Wide Yard Sales, May 18 & 19 and September 14 & 15; and Fall Fest at the Rosedale Playground, September 21, 11 am-3 pm (Rain Date Sept 28). All are welcome. Check out our website for event info at www.Laureldaleboro.org.

Muhlenberg Township

www.muhlenbergtwp.com

Spring Fiesta on Saturday, June 8 at Jim Dietrich Park is a vibrant celebration that unites our community. This event offers a platform for diverse cultural music, art, and food, creating shared experiences through live music and various cultural dishes. Please visit www.muhlenbergtwp.com for more information.

West Reading Borough

www.westreadingborough.com

West Reading Borough has matured into a thriving, walkable community with large trees shading residential streets. We are proud to be the very first Main Street Community in Berks County. Public art murals can be viewed from the Cherry Street Mural Corridor, “Dean’s Way.” Which are some of your favorites?

Leesport Borough www.leesport.org

Great things are happening in Leesport. Magical History Tour of Ontelaunee Township, June 8 www.leesporthistory. org. Leesport Lock House Historical Marker http://tiny.cc/ jxf0wz. Leesport Recreation Brick Campaign www.leesportrec. org. Visit www.leesport.org and subscribe to the quarterly newsletter.

Calling All Municipalities!

If you have news you would like to publish in our Fall 2024 issue, please contact Jonathan Heintzman, Berks County Public Relations Officer, at JHeintzman@berkspa.gov for more information.

Berks County Planning Commission

County 101 is a recurring feature that takes a deeper look at one of the County of Berks’ many departments to further explain the services and programs available to residents.

LEADERSHIP:

David N. Hunter, AICP, Executive Director

Ashley J. Showers, Assistant Director

MISSION STATEMENT:

Coming together and working together to achieve success.

IN A NUTSHELL:

The Berks County Planning Commission serves as the area-wide planning organization for Berks County. The Commission provides a regional blueprint for land use, transportation, and community facilities. It assists local units of government with development and preservation activities and provides guidance to the Berks County Board of Commissioners and other departments of county government. The Commission and its professional staff also serve as community advisors for modern planning practices and advocates for sound regional growth management. Finally, since the Commission is involved with a range of activities with several partners, it plays a very important coordinating role in community development issues and projects.

WHAT PROGRAMS DO YOU PROVIDE?

Subdivision

and Land Development Review

Subdivision and Land Development Review performs plan reviews for land development and subdivisions for consistency with the County’s Comprehensive Plan. The reviews include comments which discuss potential conflicts with the environment, transportation network and public utilities which surround the proposed development. Additionally, staff in this division endorse municipally approved land development plans prior to them being recorded as well as reviewing municipal subdivision and land development ordinance amendments.

Geographic Information Systems (GIS)

This section of the planning department obtains and maintains the geographic data that is used in the office and shared with our many stakeholders. The data is analyzed in a variety of ways to provide information for comprehensive plans, zoning reviews, transportation planning and numerous other planning studies.

Environmental Planning

Environmental Planning focuses on the environmental impacts of planning. Specifically, water and wastewater systems, and stormwater and natural gas pipelines.

Intergovernmental Planning

Intergovernmental Planning works with municipalities in developing joint comprehensive plans as well as educating officials and the public on the benefits of cooperative planning between municipalities.

Transportation Planning

Transportation Planning is responsible for developing various reports and plans that contain and discuss improvements to the transportation system throughout the county. Transportation staff also handle the administration of the Reading Area Transportation Study which is the regional transportation planning organization for the Reading, PA Metropolitan Area.

Community Planning

Staff assigned to Community Planning perform reviews mandated by Act 247, the Pennsylvania Municipalities Planning Code. These reviews come from 70 County municipalities and include municipal zoning ordinance amendments and comprehensive plans. Additionally, staff review other mandated items such as Act 537 Plans (Municipal Sewage Facilities Planning), Act 97 (Solid Waste Management), Act 67/68/102 Notices, and Agricultural Security Area 7-year reviews. Staff also provides letters of consistency for various grant applications and administration of the UCC Board of Appeals.

Demographics and Statistics

Demographics and Statistics collaborates and uses data from the U.S. Census Bureau to perform statistical analyses of a variety of data-driven topics including demographics, economics and transportation.

ARE THERE OTHER SERVICES YOU OFFER THAT YOU WISH MORE PEOPLE WERE AWARE OF?

The Planning Commission provides data and information for a myriad of uses. We invite the general public to call on the Planning Commission at 610-478-6300 from Monday to Friday, 8am to 5pm, for land use and demographic information about the county.

ANYTHING ELSE YOU WANT RESIDENTS TO UNDERSTAND ABOUT YOUR DEPARTMENT?

BCPC staff produces a monthly E-Flash newsletter which provides pertinent planning information and resources for our 72 municipalities. Please refer to this link: https://bit.ly/BCPC_EFlash

Imagine Berks is the County’s Strategic Community and Economic Development Department, including the Economic Development Action Plan. BCPC Staff collaborated with Pam Menet, the County’s Director of Community and Economic Development, and a host of partners and stakeholders to identify areas where the County can develop and expand our economy. For more information, please refer to the Imagine Berks website, https://imagineberks.org.

WITH WHAT COMMUNITY ORGANIZATIONS OR INITIATIVES DOES YOUR DEPARTMENT COLLABORATE?

The Berks County Planning Commission staff collaborates with the following county departments and organizations:

• Berks County Community and Economic Development

• Berks County Department of Agriculture

• Berks County Parks and Recreation Department

• Berks County Workforce Development Board

• Berks County Department of Emergency Services

• Berks County Recorder of Deeds

• Schuylkill River Passenger Rail Authority (SRPRA)

• Berks County Redevelopment Authority (BCRA)

• Berks Industrial Development Authority (BIDA)

• The Center for Excellence in Local Government (CELG)

• Berks Municipal Partnership (BMP)

• Greater Reading Chamber Alliance (GRCA)

• Berks County Water and Sewer Association (BCWSA)

• Berks County Uniform Construction Code Appeals Board

• Eastern PA Freight Alliance

• Reading-Berks Association of Realtors (RBAR)

• Berks County Smart Growth Alliance (SGA)

• Berks County MS4 Steering Committee

• Berks Nature Land Committee and State of the Environment Report

• Mount Penn Preserve

CONTACT INFORMATION:

Berks County Planning Commission

633 Court Street, 14th Floor Reading, PA 19601 610-478-6300

https://www.berkspa.gov/departments/planning-commission

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Additionally, our office collaborates with the following Federal and State agencies:

• American Planning Association (APA)

• PA Chapter of the American Planning Assoc. (PA APA)

• Pennsylvania Economic Development Association (PEDA)

• PA Downtown Center

• County Planning Directors Association of Pennsylvania

• PA Municipal Planning Education Institute (PMPEI)

• Municipal Main Street Program

• Federal Highways Administration

• Federal Emergency Management Agency

• PA Emergency Management Agency

• PA Department of Environmental Protection

• PA Department of Transportation

• PA Department of Conservation and Natural Resources

• PA Department of Community and Economic Development

• PA Department of Agriculture

Assistant Director - Nursing

Berks Heim - Nursing

The ADON has administrative authority, responsibility and accountability for assisting in the functions and activities of the Nursing Service staff. Assists the Director of Nursing (DON) in the overall operation of the department in accordance with applicable federal, state and local standards, guidelines and regulations. The ADON assesses, implements and supervises total resident care on shift by subscribing to Berks Heim Nursing department’s philosophies and objectives, standard for geriatric nursing practice, ANA Code for Nurses (P/P #1100-01) as well as following Pennsylvania Professional Nurse Practice Act, PA LPN Act, and Berks Heim Policy and Procedure.

Certified Nursing Assistant

Berks Heim - Nursing

The Nursing Assistant provides resident care under the direction of the Charge Nurse and assists the nursing team in maintaining the nursing and resident units. Nursing Assistants provide for the physical care and psychosocial needs of the residents. The Nursing Assistant treats residents with respect, maintains resident confidentiality and always utilizes standard precautions while carrying out assigned duties.

Dietary Aide (Full time & Part Time)

Berks Heim - Dietary

Assists in the preparation and serving of food and in the cleaning of Dietary area, equipment, and dishware under general supervision; trains new employees as directed by supervisor; does related work as required. All work performed must comply with Infection Control Guidelines.

Laundry Operator - Full-Time & Part-Time

Berks Heim - Laundry

Performs laundry work under minimal supervision; does related work as required.

RN & LPN Charge Nurse

All Shifts/Full Time & Part Time

Berks Heim - Personnel

A Registered Nurse  (RN) or Licensed practical nurse  (LPN) who assesses, implements, and supervises total resident care on a unit by subscribing to Berks Heim Nursing Department Philosophy and Objectives and Standard for Geriatric

County of Berks

Check out all employment opportunities and apply online: www.berkspa.gov.

Nursing Practice. The Charge Nurse is equally responsible to work with the unit staff in maintaining all the above standards as well as subscribing to Berks Heim philosophy and mission statement as outlined in the Berks Heim Employee Handbook.

RN & LPN Staff Nurse

All Shifts/Full Time & Part Time

Berks Heim - Nursing

A Registered Nurse (RN) or Licensed practical nurse (LPN) who has met all legal requirements for registration in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. May assume role of Charge Nurse in the absence of unit Charge Nurse. The Staff Nurse of a Unit or PRN provides quality professional nursing care to residents following established policies of this facility.

RN Supervisor

Full Time & Part Time

Berks Heim - Nursing

The Nursing Supervisor has the responsibility of assisting in the planning, organizing, developing and directing nursing service in accordance with current applicable federal, state, local, and facility standards, guidelines, and regulations, and as directed by the department director or administration, to assure that the highest degree of quality resident care is maintained at all times.

Sergeant - Custody

Jail System

Supervises correctional staff assigned to security positions. Maintains physical security in the Jail environment by providing correctional officers and inmates with direction, supervises visitors, and ensures effective daily operations. This is a first-line working supervisor who oversees approximately 40 correctional officers per shift. This is also the first level of supervision outside of the bargaining unit.

Correctional Officer

Jail System

Controls and supervises inmates in open settings including housing units, recreation areas, and work details. Maintains physical security in the jail environment, provides inmates with direction, supervises visitors, and ensures that overall daily operations run smoothly and on time.

Tour Guide/Collections Assistant (Seasonal) Parks

The primary responsibility of this position is to lead public tours of two onsite museums, the Gruber Wagon Works and C. Hiester Canal Center, to visitors of all ages.

Assistant Public Defender I - III

Public Defenders

Public Defenders provide legal representation for indigent persons at Summary Hearings, Preliminary Hearings, Mental Health Hearings, State Parole Violation Hearings, Appeals, and Juvenile Court. Representation includes meeting clients, evaluating case and evidence, providing advice to client, negotiation with police and District Attorney’s Office as well as conducting hearings.

Deputy Sheriff Sheriff

The purpose of the Berks County Sheriff’s Department Deputy Sheriff is to serve and protect the citizens of the County of Berks and its Judicial System through efficiency and professionalism. The position performs general duty work in the Sheriff’s Office and may be assigned to any of the several divisions or specialized positions within the Office. Assigned duties are performed in accordance with state statutes and Office rules and regulations. A Deputy Sheriff is required to exercise initiative and discretion when faced with emergency conditions. Some assignments may involve an element of personal danger. The position of Deputy Sheriff is a law enforcement position requiring advanced education, training, and/or experience. The position requires the Deputy to uphold the laws of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania and the United States of America, as well as the Constitutions of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania and the United States of America.

County Caseworker I & II - Multiple Shifts Children Services

This position provides a full range of social services to families, including interviewing and casework services, in accordance with established Federal and State regulations, policies and procedures.

Custodian - Service Center Facilities

The custodian performs repetitive manual work requiring efficient performance of simple building cleaning and minor repairs. An employee in this class works under general supervision on routine recurring assignments, receiving specific instructions on each new or unusual assignment. The work is reviewed by inspection. Employee must be thorough and dependable. Does related work as required.

Nuestro PACTO: Sirviendo a los que sirvieron Nuestro PACTO: Sirviendo a los que sirvieron

Por Jay Ostrich, Director de Asuntos de Veteranos del Condado de Berks

Durante su segundo discurso inaugural en 1865, el presidente Abraham Lincoln emitió a los estadounidenses un encargo sagrado y una promesa duradera, consagrada para siempre en la pared norte del Monumento a Lincoln, “cuidar de aquel que haya cargado la batalla y de su viuda y su huérfano”.

Desde la Generación grandiose hasta la última generación, nuestra misión en el Departamento de Asuntos de Veteranos del Condado de Berks (BCVA, por sus siglas en inglés) es responder a ese llamado al deber colocando a los 23,000 Veteranos del Condado de Berks en primer lugar y conectar a nuestros Héroes y sus familias con los beneficios y cuidado que se han ganado, mientras que promovemos una comunidad que honra su servicio y apoya su bienestar óptimo.

Ahora, con más de 90 años de servicio militar y numerosas giras de combate entre ellos, el equipo de BCVA cuenta con varios Oficiales de Servicio de VA acreditados y embajadores de alcance y educación que están disponibles de lunes a viernes para brindar orientación y apoyo a los Veteranos que buscan beneficios y servicios.

En esencia, nuestro equipo actúa como defensores e intermediarios a tiempo completo para Veteranos con el Departamento de Asuntos de Veteranos de EE. UU. y sus diversas oficinas, como la Administración de Beneficios y la Junta de Apelaciones de Veteranos, y los departamentos y comisiones del Estado de Pensilvania y el condado de Berks.

En términos prácticos, eso significa ayudar directamente a nuestros veteranos y sus familias a obtener los beneficios federales, estatales y del condado para los que son elegibles debido a su servicio militar. Asesoramos y ayudamos en la preparación y presentación de reclamos y solicitudes de beneficios tales como discapacidades relacionadas con el servicio, compensación por indemnización de dependientes, pensiones y gratificaciones, asistencia financiera de emergencia, beneficios educativos y beneficios por muerte y entierro.

Uno de los aumentos más recientes y expansivos de la elegibilidad de compensación para veteranos nos llega a través de la Ley de Promesa de Abordar Tóxicos Integrales o PACT de 2022. Esta ley federal expande rápidamente la atención médica y los beneficios del VA para los veteranos expuestos a pozos de quema, Agente Naranja y otras sustancias tóxicas mientras servían en Vietnam, el Golfo Pérsico y Afganistán, Irak y otras áreas posteriores al 11

de septiembre que brindaron apoyo en tiempos de guerra para la Operación Libertad Iraquí y la Operación Libertad Duradera.

La Ley PACT suma a la lista de condiciones de salud que el VA ahora presume que fueron causadas por la exposición a estas sustancias. Esta lista ahora incluye 11 condiciones relacionadas con las vías respiratorias, junto con varias formas de cáncer, incluidos los cánceres reproductivos, el melanoma, el cáncer de páncreas, el cáncer de riñón y los cánceres cerebrales como el glioblastoma.

En agosto de 2021, el VA comenzó a procesar las reclamaciones por discapacidad por asma, rinitis y sinusitis basadas en la presunta exposición a partículas. Los veteranos que sirvieron en el teatro de operaciones del sudoeste de Asia y otras áreas, y que desarrollaron estas condiciones dentro de los diez años posteriores al servicio militar, ahora son elegibles para solicitar beneficios por discapacidad y acceso a la atención médica de VA.

Desafortunadamente, demasiados de nuestros veteranos siguen sin saber si son elegibles para recibir beneficios y servicios relacionados con posibles exposiciones militares. Es por eso que los instamos a ellos y a aquellos que los aman a que se comuniquen con uno de nuestros VSO y nos permitan conectarlos con los hechos; y cuando son elegibles, podemos ayudarlos a iniciar un reclamo. Además de conectar a los veteranos con sus beneficios bien merecidos, aprovechamos cada oportunidad para colaborar con otras oficinas del Condado, partes interesadas de la comunidad y líderes para garantizar que nuestros veteranos sean honrados por su sacrificio desinteresado. Si tiene ideas sobre la mejor manera de hacer eso, nuestra oficina está ansiosa por escuchar sus opiniones. Puede comunicarse con BCVA al (610) 378-5601.

En última instancia, queremos que nuestros Veteranos del Condado de Berks, sus familias y aquellos que los aman sepan que el Centro de Servicios para Veteranos Etchberger, ubicado en 726 Cherry Street en Reading, es un centro activo y capaz de advocacia dedicado a servir a aquellos que han servido y asegurarse de que nuestros Héroes reciban todo el apoyo y el reconocimiento que tanto merecen.

El Departamento de Parques y Recreación Lanza el Programa de Inscripción y Alquiler En Línea

¿Buscando búhos alguna vez te ha interesado? ¿Quieres pedir prestada una caña de pescar y probar su suerte en la captura de un pez? ¿Le gustaría a sus niños probar la serigrafía o la fabricación de papel? El Departamento de Parques y Recreación del Condado de Berks no solo le ofrece la programación para probar todas estas cosas, ¡ahora es aún más fácil registrarse para participar!

En enero de 2024, el Departamento de Parques y Recreación del Condado de Berks comenzó a utilizar RecDesk, que permite a los visitantes registrarse en programas y alquilar instalaciones en línea. Ahora, puedes estar sentado en casa y tan pronto como veas un programa en el que puedas estar interesado, puedes registrarte de inmediato, las 24 horas del día.

Durante el último año, el departamento se reunió con diferentes proveedores, recibió recomendaciones de los Departamentos de Parques y Recreación de otros condados y decidió que, al final, RecDesk era el más optimizado y fácil de usar.

Ahora que RecDesk está en uso, hay enlaces en cada evento de Facebook y en la lista en el sitios web donde puede registrarse inmediatamente para los programas. ¡Es posible que desee darse prisa y registrarse en algunos de esos programas! ¡Pueden llenarse rápidamente!

Durante su primera vez en el sitio web, puede crear una cuenta que hace que cada registro posterior sea aún más fácil y ágil. Puede agregar miembros de su familia como “miembros del hogar”. Luego, al registrarse, puede seleccionar a cada miembro que asistirá. Es necesario registrar a cada persona que asiste a un programa para que los organizadores del evento puedan tener un conteo preciso, especialmente cuando hay restricciones de espacio.

Los inscritos pueden optar por recibir notificaciones sobre el evento y recibir recordatorios, por lo que nunca se perderá eventos como la Caminata de Bienestar, que estabe realmente entusiasmado cuando se registró con tres meses de anticipación.

RecDesk también tiene ventajas ocultas. Los programas ahora pueden tener una lista de espera oficial y el personal puede comunicarse rápidamente con los inscritos en el programa en caso de cambios de ubicación o aplazamientos debido al clima.

Los comentarios de RecDesk han sido buenos. El personal de Parques está muy emocionado de poder utilizar el sistema y hacer que su programación sea más accesible para todos. Escanea el código QR o sigue un enlace para probarlo por ti mismo.

APRIL 5-14 Reading, PA

MARCUS MILLER & JONATHAN BUTLER

LEE RITENOUR & DAVE GRUSIN and KIRK WHALUM

WEST COAST JAM! RICK BRAUN, RICHARD ELLIOT, PETER WHITE and the WEST COAST HORNS

BRIAN CULBERTSON: THE TRILOGY TOUR

CELEBRATING WOMEN IN JAZZ III featuring MELBA MOORE, NICOLE HENRY, MAYSA, PAULETTE MCWILLIAMS and more

JOEY ALEXANDER plus TUCK & PATTI

PRESENTED BY

PAT METHENY: DREAM BOX TOUR

DANIELLE NICOLE

ERIC DARIUS & REBECCA JADE and RHYTHM & GROOVE TOUR: BRIAN SIMPSON, MARION MEADOWS, STEVE OLIVER

GREG ADAMS & EAST BAY SOUL plus many more must-see concerts!