In this issue of Reading Local Scoop

 📆 Lots of Events This Coming Week!

 🚉 Major Step Towards Restoring Reading-Philadelphia Rail Service

🏛️ Conflict Arises Between Reading City Administration and Council Over Grant Approval Process

 🏈 Lock's Late Heroics Lift Seahawks Over Eagles in Thrilling 20-17 Victory

 🏀  Bulls End 76ers' Winning Streak with Nail-Biting 108-104 Victory

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 This Week’s Events in the Reading PA Area

December 19th

• Seasons Readings - Exeter Community Library - 9 AM - 2:30 PM

• Koziar's Christmas Village - 6 - 9 PM

December 20th

• Seasons Readings - Exeter Community Library - 9 AM - 2:30 PM

• Koziar's Christmas Village - 6 - 9 PM

• Culinary Tour of Europe - Switzerland — Reading Liederkranz - 6 - 9 PM

December 21st

• Seasons Readings - Exeter Community Library - 9 AM - 2:30 PM

• Vampire Rocketship @ SlyFox Taphouse (Wyomissing) - 6 PM

• Koziar's Christmas Village - 6 - 9 PM

• World Ballet Series: Nutcracker @ Santander Arena - 7 PM

• Holiday Lights At Gring's Mill - 5:30 PM to 8:30 PM

December 22nd

• Seasons Readings - Exeter Community Library - 9 AM - 2:30 PM

• Koziar's Christmas Village - 5 - 10 PM

• Holiday Lights At Gring's Mill - 5:30 PM to 8:30 PM

December 23rd

• Seasons Readings - Exeter Community Library - 9 AM - 2:30 PM

• Koziar's Christmas Village - 5 - 10 PM

• Hideaway Ugly Sweater Party Featuring Dipped @ Esposito's Restaurant & Pizza - 6 PM - 2 AM (Dec 24th)

• Sour Grapes Trio @ Doc & Bubba's - 6- 9 PM

• Holiday Lights At Gring's Mill - 5:30 PM to 8:30 PM

December 24th

• Christmas Eve Show and Jam Hosted by Erich Cawalla & Bennie Sims at The Peanut Bar Restaurant -

🚉 Major Step Towards Restoring Reading-Philadelphia Rail Service

The Schuylkill River Passenger Rail Authority has approved a contract with AECOM to develop a service plan for a proposed passenger rail service linking Reading, Pottstown, Phoenixville, and Philadelphia. Funded by a $750,000 federal grant and a $500,000 grant from the Federal Railroad Administration's Corridor ID Program, this project's progression significantly increases. The development plan will be executed in three steps, focusing on planning, environmental review, and preliminary engineering.

Conflict Arises Between Reading City Administration and Council Over
Grant Approval Process

The Reading City Council recently voted unanimously to adopt an ordinance requiring its approval for all grant applications submitted by the city. This move, however, met with opposition from the city administration. Managing Director William Heim argued that the City Council's involvement in grant application decisions was unnecessary, noting that applying for grants does not commit the city to any financial or other obligations.

Councilwoman Marcia Goodman-Hinnershitz defended the ordinance, stating it aligns with best practices and doesn't diminish the mayor's authority. Council President Donna Reed echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the goal of maintaining consistency in city practices.

Despite the administration's concerns about overreach, the Council also addressed another matter involving the Foundation for the Reading Pagoda. An amendment to the city's existing memorandum of understanding with the foundation was passed, reflecting a clarified role for the foundation in fundraising. The city has allocated $3 million for structural repairs to the walls surrounding the iconic Pagoda.

Lock's Late Heroics Lift Seahawks Over Eagles in Thrilling 20-17 Victory

In a dramatic Monday night clash, the Seattle Seahawks, led by backup quarterback Drew Lock, orchestrated a stunning victory over the Philadelphia Eagles, ending with a score of 20-17. This triumph snapped the Seahawks' four-game losing streak and propelled them back into the NFC playoff race.

Lock, standing in for the injured Geno Smith, masterfully guided Seattle on a 92-yard drive, culminating in a pivotal 29-yard touchdown pass to rookie Jaxon Smith-Njigba with just 28 seconds remaining. This drive marked the Seahawks' lengthiest touchdown drive of the season and featured Smith-Njigba's most significant catch of his career.

The Seahawks' win was not just a result of offensive prowess; their defense also shone in critical moments. Safety Julian Love intercepted Philadelphia quarterback Jalen Hurts twice in the fourth quarter, including a game-sealing pick in the final moments. Love's first interception thwarted a potential score that would have widened the Eagles' lead.

Despite an illness, Hurts managed two rushing touchdowns and 82 yards on the ground but struggled in the passing game, throwing two interceptions. On the Seahawks' side, Lock connected multiple times with DK Metcalf during the decisive drive and even took on a blocking role for Kenneth Walker III's game-tying touchdown in the third quarter.

The Seahawks' victory not only revived their playoff hopes but also complicated the Eagles' position, preventing them from gaining a lead over Dallas in the NFC East. Both teams now face a challenging path forward as the season progresses.

Bulls End 76ers' Winning Streak with Nail-Biting 108-104 Victory

The Chicago Bulls halted the Philadelphia 76ers' six-game winning streak with a 108-104 victory. Coby White's 24 points, supported by Vucevic and DeRozan, led the Bulls to success despite the absence of Zach LaVine. Joel Embiid's 40-point effort for the 76ers was not enough, as the Bulls showcased resilience and teamwork.