Highlighting Community Partnerships in Hazleton

HARRISBURG - The September edition of the local TV program hosted by Sen. Dave Argall (R-29) focuses on several events throughout the city of Hazleton, the largest community Argall represents in the 29th Senate District.

The show first highlights a Greater Hazleton Chamber of Commerce Red Carpet Breakfast featuring Congressman Rob Bresnahan. Argall, Rep. Dane Watro (R-116) and Congressman Bresnahan share an office in the heart of downtown Hazleton, near the famous Jimmy's Quick Lunch. The office serves as a one-stop shop for constituents who need assistance with state or federal issues.

The show then pivots to Cusat's Café, the family business of Hazleton Mayor Jeff Cusat, in the Alter Street section of the city. During that visit, Argall presented Mayor Cusat, and Kristin and Rocco Cusat with a Senate citation commemorating the restaurant's 90th anniversary.

Another important highlight in this month's Argall Report is the long-awaited ribbon cutting for the Mericle Family YMCA's Hazleton branch. The latest renovations include a pool, fitness area and basketball court which are now open for Hazleton area residents to enjoy. Most of the project's funding came from generous private donors, but past state legislators - along with Argall and Watro - worked with Mayor Cusat to help secure more than $700,000 in state support to bring the project to life.

"My children learned how to swim at the Hazleton YMCA and so many of us have happy memories in this building," Argall said. "I am pleased to see it reopen for a new generation to create happy memories of their own."

The show concludes with a recent public hearing hosted by both Argall and Watro at Hazleton's City Hall. The hearing focused on crime trends and strategies to improve public safety and featured updates from Pennsylvania Attorney General Dave Sunday, Luzerne County District Attorney Sam Sanguedolce and Hazleton area law enforcement officials.

"Successful efforts to prevent and reduce crime start with strong community partnerships," added Argall. "While much work remains ahead, testifiers noted crime rates in the area are declining and below the national average."

This edition of the Argall Report will air on:

• Blue Ridge Communications (Channel 13) every Monday at 10 a.m. and every Wednesday at 10:30 p.m.
• Service Electric Cablevision: Hazleton, Mahanoy City; Shenandoah - on Hazleton's WYLN TV 35 Channel 507 and MetroCast Communications Channel 10. Please check local listings for airtimes.
• Berks Community Television (Comcast - Channel 15 and Service Electric - Channel 19). Please check local listings for airtimes.

All editions of the Argall Report can also be viewed on Argall's website.

CONTACT: Seth Hubler