From Greater Reading Chamber Alliance
Pictured above: Emmy Award-winning magician Penn Jillette. Photo courtesy of Wayne Becker of Zerbe Photography
In the evening of Wednesday, May 21, the Greater Reading Chamber Alliance (GRCA) celebrated the vitality of the Berks County business community at its 112th annual dinner held at the Santander Arena. Nearly 700 people gathered for the Las Vegas-themed event.
The evening began by instantly transporting attendees to the glitz and glamour of the Vegas Strip. VIP sponsors were treated to an exclusive experience, complete with signature cocktails, gourmet hors d’oeuvres, and a photo opportunity with the legendary Penn Jillette. As other guests arrived, they were welcomed by glamorous showgirls and offered sparkling wine, setting a festive tone for the night. The excitement continued with lively photo opportunities featuring a vintage convertible and an Elvis impersonator.
During Jillette’s 40-minute interactive speech in which multiple audience members helped during his tricks, he spoke about how he and Teller wanted to do magic differently.
“Magic is always claiming it can do something you can and laughing at you about it,” he said.
Instead, he and Teller wanted to build trust and be honest with their audience, much like businesses need to with their customers.
“Magic doesn’t fool you because you are stupid,” he said. “It fools you because it is stupid.”
He said there is beauty in the “aha moment,” that should be celebrated, and that is one of the reasons he and Teller are the longest-running show in Las Vegas history.
The evening continued with recognizing the 50 companies that made up the Business Excellence Awards in Category 1. American Crane & Equipment Corporation, Reading Truck Equipment, LLC, and Vision Mechanical, Inc. took the top three spots. The honored businesses in Category 1 are for-profit companies with revenues of at least $1 million in each of the past three fiscal years.
Ten smaller businesses were recognized in Category 2, with FXV Digital Design, Our Konnection, LLC, and Financial Planning Advisors, Inc., making the top three. The recognized companies in Category 2 are for-profit businesses with revenues of at least $250,000 in each of the past three fiscal years.
“The Dinner was more than just a finely curated and magical celebration — it was a vibrant reflection of the spirit and strength of the Greater Reading business community,” said Kristi Gage-Linderman, vice chairwoman of the board. “From the moment guests arrived, the energy was electric, but what truly lit up the room was the shared pride in our local entrepreneurs and business leaders. Their success fuels our economy, strengthens our community, and inspires a brighter future.”
The title sponsor of the event was JPMorgan Chase & Co., and the platinum sponsor was Shuman Development Group.
About the Greater Reading Chamber Alliance
The Greater Reading Chamber Alliance’s mission is with excellent and committed leadership and coordination, they attract new businesses to the community, support the businesses that are already here, nurture local start-ups, develop the workforce for today and the future, and advocate on behalf of the business community.
