READING, Pa. \u2013 There are just weeks until the biggest soccer event in the world, and it\u2019s happening right here in our region. It\u2019s a dream that was a year in the making.<\/p>\n
\u201cWhat better way to incentivize our local economy by pitching an idea of having FIFA pre-watch parties in Reading and Allentown and in Lancaster,\u201d said \u00c1ngel Figuero, founder of the Berks County Latino Chamber of Commerce.<\/p>\n
State Rep. Johanny Cepeda-Freytiz (D-129) was approached with an idea, which she made a reality with the help of a grant..<\/p>\n
“Let’s take advantage of the opportunity to help our small business community have, you know, an impact, a positive impact in their bottom line,\u201d she said. \u201cLet’s boost their economy, because, you know, times have been very challenging for the past couple of years.”<\/p>\n
One of the masterminds behind this plan was Figueroa.<\/p>\n
“Connecting the dots, right? Connecting Reading with tourism, and connecting Lancaster with tourism, as well as Allentown, and coincidentally, you know, the region represents the largest and most dense Latino population in the whole state,\u201d Figueroa said.<\/p>\n
Fan watch parties will provide visitors and locals with a more affordable way to experience the world of soccer.<\/p>\n
“People should expect us to break bread with community,\u201d Cepeda-Freytiz said. \u201cGet to know the Reading-Lancaster-Allentown area. Consume, partake, experience, and hopefully, right, you know, these are great areas to live, work, and continue to play, so why not?”<\/p>\n