During the annual meeting of the Tamaqua Area Community Partnership, State Senator David G. Argall (R-29) celebrated revitalization improvement projects in Tamaqua Borough, as well as Rush, Schuylkill, Walker and West Penn Townships. Argall hailed the need to continue those efforts through the recruitment of new individuals.

The annual meeting reception allowed the participants to elect new officers, in addition to celebrating many of the successes in each community."Let me announce something that you already know, the Tamaqua area has passed 'Community Revitalization 101' with flying colors," said Argall. "You earned such a good grade that now other communities hope to learn from our experiences, just as we have learned from people in Jim Thorpe and the Center for Rural Pennsylvania, as well as the ongoing Blue Print communities and their efforts.""Since this effort began in the winter of 1993-94, look what you have accomplished: 72 downtown projects, a brand new community college, a restored 1874 train station and garden in the heart of our community, a model recreational group that serves seven communities in three different school districts and local historic markers throughout these communitiesthe list goes onto give you anything other than an 'A' in 'Community Revitalization 101' would be academic malpractice."Argall encouraged recruitment of new volunteers during the meeting. "After 15 years, let's be honest, we've burned out some of our best volunteers and they could really use a break. We need some new talent, we need some fresh blood. That's why we've asked many of you to attend tonight's event."Argall also recognized Linda Yulanavage and Eileen Barron of the Tamaqua Chamber, as well as Micah Gursky, Tamaqua Borough Council President, Todd, Trevor and Glenn Miller of M&S TrueValue Hardware for their tireless work with the downtown revitalization effort.