Members of the Panther Valley Blueprint Community Team, whose goal is revitalization of the involved communities. made a symbolic visit to the four inclusive towns to display municipal cohesiveness. The involved communities are Coaldale, Lansford, Nesquehoning and Summit Hill.

A press release with the inter-borough trek stated the team “has embarked on a transformative journey.”

It states, “The Blueprint initiative begun over 15 years ago ... has recently bestowed its much sought-after designation upon these communities. This designation serves as a catalyst for revitalization, igniting hope and progress.

“The Blueprint Communities program empowers localities through leadership training, skill development and community revitalization planning. Over the next 10 years, the Panther Valley team will receive education and tools to:

“• Craft a long-term strategic plan: The PV team will outline a comprehensive vision for the region’s growth and development.

“• Foster Panther Valley leadership: Identifying and nurturing local leaders is crucial for sustained progress.

“• Evaluate strengths and weaknesses: A thorough assessment will guide targeted improvements.

“• Create a five-year redevelopment plan: Tangible goals will drive positive change.

“• Forge partnerships: Collaborating with existing and new partners will amplify impact.

“• Execute visible projects: Leverage grants and donations to support community initiatives.”

The press release said the team recently finalized its mission and vision statements:

“Our mission: Improve the quality of life by building a vibrant and resilient PV community, by promoting equity, creating more recreational opportunities for all ages, developing our neighborhoods to be healthy and enjoyable places to live for both current and new residents, and by supporting business owners and entrepreneurs in crating local jobs and spurring economic development.”

“Our vision: Working together for a thriving tomorrow. Four communities. One collective dream.”

Officers of the Panther Valley team are Dave Wargo, chairperson; Jesse Walck, vice chairperson; Joe Guardiani, secretary; and John Dowling, treasurer.

Other members are:

Joe Bennett, Dave Boyle, Abbie Guardiani, Lois Kuba, Bruce Markovich, Hamilton Perez-Flores.

Eric Ramirez, Yvonne Stoffey, Lori Rutch, Brenda Sacco, Roobhenn Smith, Jared Soto.

Rich Vermillion, Joe Weber, and Amber Zuber.

The Blueprint initiative when it began 15 years ago was created by the Federal Home Loan Bank of Pittsburgh, which is still involved.

Tamaqua has previously capitalized on the Blueprint initiative.

Other individuals involved in the PV initiative are Micah Gursky and Christine Verdier, local mentors to the PV team, and Linda Falcone, Federal Home Loan Bank and BHT coach.

The press release stated:

“The team has already leveraged $12,000 in mini grants for startup activities, community networking, surveys, and plan development. Excitingly the PV team recently secured a $5,000 grant from the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection. This funding will support the planning and establishment of a community garden at the new Nesquehoning VFW Veterans and First Responders Memorial, currently under construction.”

Since its inception, 64 communities throughout the state have actively participating, with over $500 million in public and private funding secured.

Among the successes are 94 high-quality housing projects, with $33 million in FHL funding.