Community News
Local news about your town and neighbors
July is Sarcoma Awareness Month: understanding the “forgotten cancer”
Every July, communities across the country recognize Sarcoma Awareness Month - a time to bring attention to a rare and often misunderstood group of cancers that form in the bones or soft tissue of the body.
Birch Meadow Park temporarily closing for major upgrades starting July 14
Big changes are coming to Birch Meadow Park! Beginning Monday, July 14, the park will be temporarily closed as Phase II improvements officially begin.
Town of Reading recognizes Minority Mental Health Awareness Month
The Town of Reading is proud to recognize National Minority Mental Health Awareness Month, an initiative dedicated to raising awareness about the unique mental health challenges and disparities faced by racial and ethnic minority communities in the United States.
Overnight fire destroys historic Summer Ave property
A devastating overnight fire has left a historic Summer Ave home severely damaged, marking a significant loss for both the property owner and the wider Reading community.
Reading PorchFest 2025: music, community, and connection shine through the rain
Despite a soggy start, the skies couldn’t dampen the energy and enthusiasm of the 2025 Reading PorchFest, held Saturday, June 28. The town was alive with sound as more than 90 musical acts performed across 40 stages - porches, lawns, public spaces, and even local businesses - turning Reading into a townwide concert for all ages.
On July 15, dig deep into your family history with the top 10 genealogy resources around!
Join Linda MacIver, educator, lecturer, librarian and genealogy researcher in a virtual presentation on the best genealogy resources available to help you explore your family’s history.
Join Walking Joe and the Reading Lions at the 40th Journey for Sight 5K Road Race—Thursday Evening, July 17!
Do you know Walking Joe? Joe Coughlin, a Lion for more than 21 years and a former town employee, may often be seen on walks around town.
Protect yourself this summer: mosquito bite prevention tips from Middlesex-Essex Public Health
As summer heats up in Massachusetts, so does mosquito season. With rising concerns about mosquito-borne illnesses such as West Nile Virus and Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE), the Middlesex-Essex Public Health Collaborative is reminding residents to take preventative measures to protect themselves and their families.
Grillin’ like a pro: tips for safe and delicious backyard BBQs
Backyard grilling is a favorite summertime tradition, but whether you’re searing steaks or flipping burgers, knowing how to grill safely is just as important as mastering your marinade.
July is UV Safety Month: protect your skin from harmful sun exposure
The Town of Reading is reminding residents that July is UV Safety Month, a time to raise awareness about the dangers of ultraviolet (UV) radiation and the steps you can take to protect yourself and your loved ones from sun-related health risks, including skin cancer.
Celebrate the Library’s Summer of Story with Reading Parties and a Story Slam!
Whether you like to tell a good story or read it, the Library’s got you covered this summer with programs for adults and teens.
Town of Reading announces water rates for FY26
Reading Town Manager Matt Kraunelis is pleased to share the Select Board’s recent decisions on water, sewer, and stormwater rates for Fiscal Year 2026. These rates were voted on and finalized following a public hearing and thoughtful deliberation during the Select Board’s June 24 meeting.
Summer swimming safety: protecting our community in and around the water
With summer in full swing, families across Reading are heading to pools, ponds, lakes, and beaches to cool off and enjoy the sunshine. The Town of Reading wants to remind all residents - especially parents and caregivers - of the importance of water safety.
Wedding announcement from Linda Snow Dockser & Mark Dockser
It is with great joy that Linda and Mark Dockser of Reading, MA welcome Alexa Erb into our family as she weds our son Aaron Dockser. A summer wedding is planned in anticipation of a lifetime of partnership, fun, fulfillment, and love.
Hot car warning: never leave children, disabled adults, or pets in vehicles
As summer temperatures rise, the Town of Reading is reminding all residents and visitors of a critical safety issue: never leave children, disabled adults, or pets alone in a hot vehicle - even for a few minutes.
Reading launches communication project to better connect with residents
The Town of Reading is committed to strengthening its connection with residents and improving how the Town shares important information about local resources, events, and opportunities. To support this goal, the Town is launching a new communication initiative - and they want your input.
Reading trash and recycling service unaffected by regional work stoppage
The Town of Reading is aware of the recent work stoppage related to ongoing labor contract negotiations between Republic Services and union employees. This labor dispute is currently affecting trash and recycling collection in several neighboring communities, including North Reading and Wakefield.
Upcoming road construction in Reading: what residents need to know
Over the next several weeks, the Town of Reading’s Department of Public Works (DPW), in collaboration with its contractor Lazaro Paving Corp., will begin road resurfacing and construction work on Summer Ave. This work is part of the Town’s ongoing effort to improve roadway conditions and enhance public infrastructure.
June is Alzheimer’s Awareness Month
June marks Alzheimer’s Awareness Month, a time dedicated to increasing understanding of Alzheimer’s disease, supporting those affected, and promoting early detection and treatment options.
Reading comes together to celebrate with education, unity, and purpose
On Saturday, June 21, the Reading community gathered on the Town Common for the annual Juneteenth Freedom Festival, commemorating the day in 1865 when enslaved people in Galveston, Texas, learned of their freedom.