Read my e-newsletter in a language that’s preferable to you by visiting my legislative website here and clicking on the accessibility icon in the lower right corner.
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$543,000 secured for recreational improvements
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I’m proud to announce that $543,000 was recently secured for recreational improvements and natural resource conservation in our district!
The following projects were granted funding:
- $250,000 to Student Conservation Association Inc., to engage communities in planting trees and building local tree stewardship capacity. Additionally, the funding will be used to coordinate and fund an Urban and Community Forestry workforce development program for youth and young adults.
- $249,900 to Stroud Water Research Center Inc., to install 25 acres of riparian forest buffers and post-planting establishment of 20 acres of recently planted buffers along waterways in the Schuylkill River Watershed across Berks, Chester, and Montgomery counties.
- $43,100 for the development of the Solution Trail in Cumru and Lower Alsace Townships. The work is expected to include construction on 1.3 miles of trail, ADA access, landscaping, project signs, and other site improvements.
This funding is an investment in the spaces and resources that make our communities across Berks County vibrant. By supporting trails, parks, conservation efforts, and opportunities for young people, we’re making quality of life improvements today while laying the foundation for healthier, more connected communities in the future.
Read more about the grant funding here: Rusnock applauds $543,000 investment from Community Conservation Partnerships Program.
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Celebrating Reading Day at the Capitol
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Last week, I joined my fellow Berks County House colleagues and local leaders to celebrate Reading Day at the Capitol! The day was about celebrating the city’s proud history, highlighting recent investments and redevelopment projects, and acknowledging our very own Reading Fightin Phils, who won the team’s first Eastern League Championship since 1995!
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Breast Cancer Awareness Month
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This month, the Capitol Fountain is pink in honor of Breast Cancer Awareness Month.
Mammograms are the easiest and most effective way to catch breast cancer early and stop it before it spreads to other parts of the body. By raising awareness and promoting regular mammograms, we can save lives.
I joined my fellow House colleagues in pink for our annual photo last Tuesday. It was a meaningful opportunity to stand together in support of those who have been affected by breast cancer and to help remind Pennsylvanians of the importance of early detection.
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Your health is worth making time for. If you haven’t done so already, please talk with your doctor about when you should schedule a screening mammogram. And if you notice any unusual changes, don’t wait; reach out to a healthcare professional.
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Working to strengthen Latino businesses along the Route 222 Corridor
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Last week, I joined my House colleagues for a discussion surrounding the Route 222 corridor. Pennsylvania has the only growing economy in the Northeast, and Latino business owners and entrepreneurs are helping drive that economic engine.
The Route 222 corridor links the cities and communities of Allentown, Bethlehem, Easton, Lancaster, and Reading with the state’s youngest population. Our hearing focused on the economy along the Route 222 corridor and was co-hosted by the Latino Caucus and the House Majority Policy Committee.
During the conversation, we heard from local leaders and business owners about the opportunities and challenges facing Latino entrepreneurs and the importance of supporting small businesses, expanding economic opportunities, and creating pathways to success. Their insights highlighted the vital role Latino-owned businesses play in strengthening our local economies and creating jobs throughout the region.
I look forward to continuing to work with my colleagues and community partners to ensure our communities have the resources and support they need to grow, thrive, and build a stronger economic future for all Pennsylvanians.
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General election deadlines and reminders ahead of Nov. 3
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The deadline for registering to vote in Pennsylvania is just around the corner! Make sure you’re ready for the 2026 General Election on Tuesday, Nov. 3.
Here are the key dates to remember:
- OCT. 19: LAST DAY TO REGISTER TO VOTE OR UPDATE YOUR REGISTRATION.
- OCT. 27: DEADLINE TO APPLY FOR A MAIL-IN OR ABSENTEE BALLOT.
- NOV. 3: ELECTION DAY. Polls are open from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Planning to vote by mail? Berks County has three secure ballot drop boxes available beginning Oct. 19. Find drop box locations here. Completed ballots must be received by 8 p.m. on Nov. 3.
Don’t wait until the last minute, check your registration and make a plan to vote!
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Highlighting the importance of CTE curriculum modernization
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We had another successful Shred Event last weekend! Thanks to everyone who stopped by and took the time to chat with me; it was great seeing everyone!
I’d like to send a huge shoutout to my staff and their families, to Muhlenberg School District for allowing us to utilize their space, and to Shred It for their professional service. I appreciate your partnership and willingness to help our community members keep their personal information safe.
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I had an amazing time at the Temple Halloween Parade earlier this month! It was great seeing so many familiar faces and incredible costumes. We handed out over 400 pounds of candy and hundreds of toothbrushes to go along with all those sweets!
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Addressing noise concerns for local residents
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Recently, House Transpiration Chairman Ed Neilson joined me for a visit with residents of Heather Noll, Whitford Hills, River’s Bend, and Fox Chase to discuss ongoing noise concerns affecting these communities.
We heard directly from residents about the issues they’re experiencing and discussed what can be done to address them. It was a productive meeting, and we’re now taking those concerns back to PennDOT to seek recommendations and identify concrete, actionable steps.
We appreciate everyone who took the time to speak with us. We’ll continue working with residents, PennDOT, and local officials to move this issue forward.
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Attending Carsonia’s Craft Beer & Wine Amusement
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I had a great time at the 11th annual Carsonia Craft Beer & Wine Amusement last Saturday. From live music and food vendors to a cornhole tournament and craft beer and wine tastings, there was something for everyone to enjoy. Best of all, all proceeds benefitted the Antietam Valley Community Partnership, making it a fun way to support a great cause and give back to the community!
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General information and reminders
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State grant programs available
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The latest grant opportunities from the state have been released! My office is happy to connect you with government funding opportunities like these, so please reach out if you have a question or need a letter of support.
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My office is here to help!
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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!
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District Office
4933 Kutztown Rd. Temple, PA 19560
(610) 921-8921
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Pennsylvania State Capitol 152 Main Capitol Building Harrisburg, PA 17120
(717) 783-3290
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