To read this email in a way and language that’s preferable to you, visit here and click the accessibility icon in the upper right corner.

 

Para leer este correo electrónico de la forma y en el idioma que prefieras, visita aquí y luego haz clic en el icono de accesibilidad en la esquina superior derecha.

 

Over $1.9 million secured for district community improvement projects!

I’m proud to share that nearly $2 million in grant funding was recently approved for multiple agencies across our district!

 

The funds were awarded by the Commonwealth Financing Authority via the Local Share Account, which distributes money from gaming revenues to counties to support projects in the public interest.

 

Check out the full list of projects here: Rusnock: Over $1.9 million secured for local community improvement projects.

 

What stands out to me about these grants is how many different community needs they address. We're making important improvements to our parks and public spaces, strengthening emergency response, preparing for flooding, upgrading public safety facilities, and expanding infrastructure. These are practical investments that will make a difference in residents' everyday lives, and I'm proud to support them.

 

Historic House session in Philadelphia

Last week, I joined my House colleagues in Congress Hall for a historic session commemorating the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence and the 250th anniversary of the Pennsylvania Constitution.

I had the pleasure of welcoming Avrie Crafton, a senior at Muhlenberg High School, to this historic session. Avrie was chosen because of his strong interest in government. He's the 26-27 class president, student council president, and is an extremely engaged student. It was an honor to meet him and share this historical moment!

 

Some of the U.S. Constitution's most enduring principles were inspired by Pennsylvania's Constitution, adopted in September 1776. I was honored to take part in this historic legislative session commemorating America's 250th birthday and celebrating Pennsylvania's lasting contribution to our nation's founding!

 

A more perfect union

Another part of our recognition of 250 years of American democracy was a panel discussion on independence and inclusion at the historic Mother Bethel AME Church.

 

It was an insightful discussion hosted by PA Speaker of the House Joanna McClinton and WURD's Solomon Jones, including three other Black Speakers of the House from across the nation, to examine the challenges facing our democracy today and how to ensure that government continues to reflect the ideals of freedom, equity, and inclusion.

 

Events like these aren’t just about history – they’re about taking what we learn from the past and using that knowledge to continue to better our future.

 

Calling all future leaders

The PA House Fellowship Program is now accepting applications for Spring 2027. Work in the Capitol, draft legislation, network with public officials, and earn a paycheck, with possible college credit.

 

The program is open to Pennsylvania college juniors, seniors, graduate students, and law students with a 3.0+ GPA.

 

Applications are due by October 1, 2026.

 

To learn more about the program or to apply, visit: http://www.pahousefellowship.us/.

 

General election deadlines and reminders ahead of Nov. 3

Remember, elections happen more than just every four years – and each election is a chance to shape the future you want to see.

 

Some key dates to keep in mind for the 2026 General Election on Tuesday, Nov. 3:

If you plan to vote by mail but get too close to Election Day without mailing your completed ballot, Berks County Election Services officials have three drop boxes available to ensure your vote is counted.

 

Just remember to get your completed ballot there by 8 p.m. on Nov. 3.

 

Around the community

9/11 Remembrance Ceremony at Exeter High School

Last Friday, we acknowledged the attacks on our nation in New York City, Washington D.C., and Shanksville that took place 25 years ago. I was humbled to attend Exeter High School’s remembrance ceremony and honor the lives lost and the sacrifice of the first responders who rushed into the chaos to help those in need.

 

We heard from Alice Hinkle, a registered nurse who worked at the Flight 93 crash site as part of a mental health support team that worked with public safety and federal agents as they investigated and cleared the wreckage.

On that day and in the immediate aftermath, we were all united as Americans – undivided by region, race, politics, or affiliation. Twenty-five years later, that unity remains a goal to achieve again.

 

Presenting a Labor Day citation to a long-time community leader

I was honored to present a House Citation commemorating Mark Pinkasavage during the inaugural Labor Day flag-raising ceremony in City Park.

 

Mark, who's worked as the business manager of IBEW Local 743, is planning to retire. He's spent 37 years in the electrical workers union and has trained countless apprentices in the valuable skill.

 

Although Labor Day may have come and gone, I'd still like to extend my heartfelt thanks to all our workers—and especially to the members of organized labor—whose perseverance and commitment have secured so many of the rights and protections we benefit from today.

 

Upcoming events

Shred Event on Oct. 10

Safely dispose of your old documents and protect yourself from identity theft at our second Shred Event of the year! If you have clutter, bring it to us for document shredding.

 

Date: Saturday, Oct. 10

 

Time: 9 a.m. – 12 p.m.

 

Location: Muhlenberg High School, 400 Sharp Ave., Reading, 19605

 

My office is here to help!

My team and I are ready to help you with a range of services, including filing for your Property Tax/Rent Rebate, help with PennDOT and unemployment services.

 

Please stop by my office (4933 Kutztown Road), call us at (610) 921-8921 or email RepRusnock@pahouse.net to learn more about the services we offer and get started!

 

District Office

4933 Kutztown Rd.
Temple, PA 19560

(610) 921-8921

Pennsylvania State Capitol
152 Main Capitol Building
Harrisburg, PA 17120

(717) 783-3290

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