PA State Rep. Dane Watro

06/01/2026

Recently, I presented a Pennsylvania House of Representatives citation to Danielle Matarella, the Greater Hazleton director for Catholic Social Services of the Diocese of Scranton, in recognition of her being the recipient of the Greater Hazleton Chamber of Commerce’s 2026 Athena Award, sponsored by Lehigh Valley Hospital Hazleton.

Danielle - who also joined me for my last telephone town hall - has dedicated more 21 years to Catholic Social Services, and in her current role she oversees a multi-building campus supporting shelter, housing, food assistance, family services and administrative operations, leading a team of 16 staff and approximately 50 volunteers. She manages daily operations, staffing, grants, fundraising and program development.

The Athena Award celebrates the extraordinary impact of women in business across the Greater Hazleton area.

05/29/2026

I’d like to thank everyone who called in, listened and talked with me during my telephone town hall Thursday evening. We had nearly 670 people join us during the event. I’d also like to thank Danielle Matarella, the Greater Hazleton director for Catholic Social Services of the Diocese of Scranton, for joining me during the town hall.

There were some great conversations during the town hall, and I appreciate all those who responded to the survey questions I asked.

When I asked if people support legislation, which I plan to introduce, that would give school police officers limited extraterritorial authority so they could respond to school-related incidents occurring immediately off school property or in hot pursuit of a threat, 95% of those responding to the question said they support the idea.

Again, it was great to spend some time with all of you. Thanks for participating.
My next telephone town hall will be Wednesday, Aug. 26, starting at 7 p.m.

05/29/2026

Last weekend, I had the privilege of attending a celebration honoring Bob and Elaine Curry, whose vision 15 years ago helped lay the foundation for what would become the Hazleton Integration Project (HIP). Alongside Joe Maddon, they envisioned a place where children and families from all backgrounds could come together, grow and thrive.

During the past 15 years, HIP has become a cornerstone of the Greater Hazleton Area, positively impacting countless lives through its educational, athletic and cultural programs.

As part of the evening’s festivities, I was proud to present Bob and Elaine with a Pennsylvania House of Representatives citation recognizing their years of dedication and honoring their retirement from HIP. I also presented a citation to HIP in recognition of its 15th anniversary and the lasting impact it continues to have on our community, with hopefully many more years to come.

05/28/2026

Join me tonight, starting at 7 p.m., for a telephone town hall.

I’ll be joined by Danielle Matarella, the Greater Hazleton director for Catholic Social Services of the Diocese of Scranton.

We will accept questions on any topic, but we would like to focus our discussion on what services are available from Catholic Social Services and how the community can get involved to help the organization’s mission.

So, ask a question or simply choose to listen. Our conversation will last about an hour, but you can stay on the line as little or as long as you wish.

You can join the call on the evening of May 28 by calling 877-229-8493 and using the PIN 122199. You can also use the following link: https://video.teleforumonline.com/video/streaming.php?client=22199

05/28/2026

It was great to join students, educators, employers, legislative colleagues and community leaders for the YES (Your Employability Skills) Recognition Breakfast hosted earlier this month by the Northeast PA Manufacturers and Employers Council at St. Nick’s in Minersville.

The YES program continues to connect students with real-world career opportunities through mock interviews, business tours, presentations, and hands-on workforce development experiences. These opportunities help students build confidence, develop professional skills, and explore in-demand careers across Pennsylvania.

It was also great to recognize the employers, mentors and educators whose continued support helps prepare students for success after graduation, wherever their path may lead.

05/27/2026

Yesterday, I had the pleasure of meeting Scott Herring, who will be receiving the 25-year Star of Life Award sponsored by the Emergency Health Services Federation.

Presented to those involved in emergency medical services (EMS) for 25 years or more, the award recognizes Scott’s contributions to the public in the EMS field for more than 36 years. He’s currently moving into the role of educator for the next generation of emergency medical technicians.

Scott was honored in the state Capitol on May 21, but unfortunately, I could not attend the event. On Tuesday, I met with Scott and presented him with a Pennsylvania House of Representatives citation to mark the momentous occasion.

05/27/2026

Last week, I was honored to speak at the Pennsylvania Municipal Authorities Association Greater Hazleton Joint Sewer Authority Meeting. It's gathering of dedicated municipal professionals who work every day to provide public services on which we all rely.

05/26/2026

Late Monday morning and into the afternoon, I was honored to participate in the Mahanoy City Memorial Day Parade.

05/26/2026

The rain did not dampen the spirits of those who came out Monday for the West Hazleton Memorial Day celebration. Though the parade was canceled, the program went on.

I was proud to attend the event with our congressman, U.S. Rep. Rob Bresnahan. The congressman, who always makes a point of coming to the Hazleton area, delivered wonderful Memorial Day remarks, which contained special recognition for the parade grand marshal, Korean War veteran Bruce Huttenstine (my apologies, I initially posted an incorrect name).

05/25/2026