After nearly twelve years representing communities across the Fifth Middlesex District in the Massachusetts Senate, Jason Lewis has announced he will not seek re-election at the end of his current term.

When I was first elected to the Select Board in 2020, I brought significant municipal government knowledge from my roles serving as a long-time Town Meeting member and Finance Committee member.

Our creative community is strongest when many voices are heard. If you feel inspired, please consider submitting your own work to The Reading Observer.

Town officials are inviting residents to help shape the next chapter of one of Reading’s most recognizable downtown buildings - the Pleasant Street Center.

Town Manager Matt Kraunelis and the Town of Reading issued a joint statement during the February 24, 2026, Select Board meeting addressing the status of his tenure.

February is Marfan Syndrome Awareness Month, focused on increasing understanding of a genetic connective tissue disorder that can affect the heart, blood vessels, eyes, and skeleton.

On Monday, March 2 at 6:00pm, Reading Democrats will convene at the Reading Public Library, 64 Middlesex Ave., Reading, MA to elect 17 delegates and 4 alternates to represent Reading at the 2026 State Democratic Convention (May 29-30).

The future of Mattera Cabin, a small but well-loved community space at 1481 Main Street, remains under review after permitting issues led to its closure last fall.

As of 6:00 pm, Reading has received approximately 14 inches of snow, and more than 50 pieces of equipment have been deployed to clear roads during the storm.

CATO – The Coalition of Us (CATO), a Reading-based social justice organization dedicated to advancing racial justice for Black and brown people, has released a new Black History Month “Bingo Card” designed to help community members engage in meaningful, accessible ways throughout February.

Today, State Representative Ken Gordon is endorsing Tram Nguyen in her campaign for Congress. Rep. Gordon’s district includes Burlington and Bedford in the Massachusetts 6th Congressional District. 

The National Weather Service has issued a Blizzard Warning for Reading and surrounding communities, in effect from Sunday evening through Tuesday morning.

The National Weather Service has issued a Blizzard Warning for Reading and the surrounding area, in effect from Sunday evening through Tuesday morning.

February is also Low Vision Awareness Month, highlighting the importance of early detection and routine eye care. Millions of people live with vision loss, and many conditions develop without early symptoms.

Immigration attorney Diann Slavit Baylis announced today that she is running for Governor’s Council in Massachusetts’ 6th District.  Slavit Baylis, a resident of Marblehead, took out nomination papers this week from the Secretary of State’s Office

Reading Pickleball Players Association (RPPA) President Judy Coltman announced today the organization has completed the transfer of $225,000 to the Town of Reading to offset the cost of new pickleball courts.

Residents interested in becoming a substitute teacher with Reading Public Schools are invited to attend an upcoming Substitute Teacher Open House.

As of January 1, 2026, Reading residents must have a 2026 Compost Sticker to access the Compost Center on Strout Ave.

Fire crews responded to a Grove Street home on Saturday, February 14, after a report that the house was filling with smoke.

Today marks one year since The Reading Observer launched, and we want to take a moment to thank the community for the incredible support, engagement, and encouragement along the way.