What impact does or can the Penn Corridor (Penn Street in Reading and Penn Avenue in West Reading) have in the success of the Greater Reading community? The Penn Corridor is a vibrant and diverse business community. It is the place where small businesses intersect with the entertainment and restaurant corridor. Due to its diversity of offerings, the Penn Corridor is a point of destination and a place were small businesses and entrepreneurs can establish roots and reach their target audience. We're seeing it happen as we speak! New businesses are popping up throughout the Penn Corridor creating new jobs, increasing property values, and enabling business owners to pursue their dreams. What plans are being developed or deployed from the Greater Reading Chamber Alliance and Berks County government perspectives to build a stronger urban core for small businesses while fostering and accelerating greater levels of success? There are 6 strategic themes that the President and CEO of GRCA, Randy Peers, identified for 2018: 1. Reading Matters 2. Workforce 3. Increase Business Expansion & Small Business Development 4. Improve Business Attraction 5. Changing Negative Perceptions 6. Collaboration and Integration Continued on page 18 Stop in for the perfect Easter & Mother's Day gift! Hand Crafted & All Natural Soaps · Candles · Jewelry Essential Oils · Herbs · Teas · Incense · Books Gifts · Special Events Lovely selection of hand crafted body care & gift items created by local artisans & herbalists! 412 Penn Avenue West Reading, PA 19611 484-516-2321 · betulasbotanica.com Spring isir! in the A Come enjoy our Outside Dining Area. OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK Daily Specials. Reservations Accepted. 3rd & Spruce Cafe, 238 S. 3rd Avenue West Reading, PA 610-376-5254 * ThirdandSpruce.com lovewestreading.org 17http://www.betulasbotanica.com http://www.ThirdandSpruce.com http://www.lovewestreading.org