Please ensure Javascript is enabled for purposes of website accessibility Rep. Manuel Guzman | News Center

Berks County primary election faces technical problems, errors and criticism

(May 18, 2022)

Rep. Manny Guzman alerted the public of issues he encountered while trying to vote Tuesday morning. Read more

 

Guzman warns of problems with Berks County voting machines

(May 17, 2022)

“When I went to cast my ballot today, what should have been a quick, simple process turned into a multi-hour ordeal,” said Guzman. “A simple mistake took more than an hour and the personal intervention of the county election director to fix. Workers were not trained on the new voting machines and the county provided no paper ballots to backup any potential problems - in fact ballots are only being distributed today, hours after the polls opened.” Read more

 

Reading youth arts group regains nonprofit status, continues anti-violence work

(May 05, 2022)

Elected officials like State Rep. Manuel Guzman Jr., State Sen. Judy Schwank and Mayor Eddie Moran attended the event and lauded the efforts of the attendees and organizers. Read more

 

Gov. Wolf: Commonwealth Can Afford Investments in Pennsylvanians; Continues Push for $2,000 Direct Payments to Pockets

(Apr 28, 2022)

“This money belongs to the people and belongs in their pockets so they can decide how to spend it in the community, multiplying the power of each dollar and helping workers, helping kids, helping seniors, helping small local business, and building a better future." Read more

 

Wolf in Reading to promote plan that would send $2,000 to some Pennsylvanians

(Apr 28, 2022)

State Rep. Manny Guzman is a strong proponent of the governor’s proposal, saying the $2,000 checks would be a big deal for a city like Reading, which has been dealing with issues related to poverty for years. Read more

 

Guzman commends nearly $1.5 million grant for Trexler Mansion rehabilitation

(Apr 25, 2022)

READING, April 25 – State Rep. Manny Guzman, D-Berks, today announced an award of $1.45 million in Redevelopment Assistance Capital Program funding for the ongoing rehabilitation of Reading’s historic Trexler Mansion. The project will involve rehabilitating the iconic building for event and office space that retains the history of the building, while providing necessary upgrades that will ensure this building remains a focal point in the Reading community for years to come. The project will include repairing masonry work and restoring windows, including the stained-glass window on the main stairwell inside the building, along with replacing the front and side doors. Additionally, the 4-lane bowling alley and tap room in the basement level will be restored, and a rooftop garden terrace will be reconstructed for outdoor space. “The Trexler Mansion has been a part of Reading’s vibrant past for over 150 years,” Guzman said. “This building is a living, breathing testament to the individuals who built this city from the ground up, and I am thrilled to see these dollars be utilized to honor their memory by ensuring the Trexler Mansion continues to be at the center of Reading’s story for generations to come. “In my first term representing the 127th Legislative District, we have seen millions of dollars being invested to revitalize the wonderful city of Reading. I look forward to continue advocating to bring home more of Read more

 

Guzman condemns deadly shooting, calls for peace and unity in Reading

(Apr 18, 2022)

READING, April 18 – State Rep. Manny Guzman, D-Berks, today released the following statement in response to the deadly shooting that took place Sunday afternoon outside a shopping center at North Sixth and Greenwich streets within the city of Reading. “I am deeply saddened by the tragic events that unfolded Sunday afternoon, which led to an individual losing their life. This incident occurred so close to my home that I heard the gunshots ringing from down the street. My heart aches for the family that have lost a loved one, and for all the families who have had their loved ones taken from them too early as a result of gun violence. While even a single act of gun violence is horrifying, they have occurred with unrelenting frequency in communities across this commonwealth for far too long. This is evidenced by the rise in gun-related violence in Reading as well as the mass shooting that took place in Pittsburgh over the weekend, which also resulted in multiple lives being lost. “As a community, we must resist becoming numb to these appalling acts and rise as unified people with the underlying goal of ceasing the violence. As elected officials, we have the opportunity to take proactive measures to ensure these gruesome events reduce in frequency and severity. I look forward to working with my colleagues at the state, federal and local levels, as well as across the aisle, to address these issues head on and provide a safer community not only here in Read more

 

Guzman to host virtual town hall on bail tonight

(Mar 09, 2022)

HARRISBURG, March 9 – State Rep. Manny Guzman, D-Berks, tonight will host a virtual town hall on the processes surrounding bail within the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. “ The process surrounding bail is oftentimes confusing, convoluted, and can negatively affect you for the rest of your life. That is why I wanted to engage in a Virtual Town Hall to establish the facts regarding the bail process with judges who have career experience in dealing with this issue,” Guzman said. Guests for Guzman’s town hall will include Judges M. Theresa Johnson, Tonya A. Butler, and Priscilla Campos. The virtual town hall will begin at 7 p.m. and can be accessed at either RepMannyGuzman.com or on Facebook at: @RepGuzman. Read more

 

Winter 2022 Newsletter

(Feb 28, 2022)

Winter 2022 Newsletter Read more

 

Guzman welcomes appointment to House Appropriations Committee

(Feb 09, 2022)

HARRISBURG, Feb. 9 – State Rep. Manny Guzman, D-Berks, today announced a recent appointment to serve on the House Appropriations Committee. The House Appropriations Committee plays a key role in crafting the commonwealth’s annual budget, and Guzman hopes to use his appointment as a vehicle to create sound fiscal policy that enhances the lives of all Pennsylvanians. “I am overly grateful for this opportunity to serve on the Appropriations Committee and look forward to the discussions and dialogue that will take place alongside my colleagues as we strive to propel Pennsylvania into a prosperous economic future,” Guzman said. “For far too long, Latinos have been severely underrepresented during the budget process; however, they will now have a seat at the table and their voices will be heard during this budget and all budgets moving forward. “With how Pennsylvania’s budget surplus currently stands, we have a rare opportunity to make monumental, strategic investments in our schools, infrastructure, and work force to make places such as Reading and Berks County wonderful places to live, work, and raise a family. These investments will lead to community revitalization that will incentivize our citizens to continue living in our great commonwealth, while also attracting individuals to decide to move to Pennsylvania because of the vast economic and social opportunities.” For more information, contact Guzman’s Read more

 

Burgos to host Dominican Independence Day Event  

(Feb 04, 2022)

HARRISBURG, Feb. 4 – State Rep. Danilo Burgos, D-Phila., will host a Dominican Independence Day celebration event news conference at 10:30 a.m. Monday, Feb. 7 in the Main Capitol Rotunda. Burgos will be joined by state Reps. Manuel Guzman, D-Berks, and Peter Schweyer, D-Lehigh. “In the United States, it is important that we recognize Dominican Independence Day,” Burgos said. “The Dominican population is growing, and we must acknowledge Dominican history and celebrate it.” “As we prepare to celebrate the 178th anniversary of Dominican Independence, let us be reminded of the struggles and sacrifices countless individuals made to gain independence, and the perpetual fight of the Dominican Republic’s citizens to retain their freedom,” said Guzman. “Now more than ever is a time to reflect and remind ourselves how important it is to continuously fight to ensure future generations have the privilege to live, work, and grow in an independent country.” "Our Dominican community is a beautiful one filled with amazing families, entrepreneurs and community leaders," said Schweyer. "I couldn’t be happier living in Allentown with our rich cultural diversity and am so very honored to join in this beautiful celebration of the Dominican heritage." The representatives will be honoring Dr. Cynthia Mona, first Dominican and woman to serve as City Council president in Allentown; and Johanna Read more

 

State lawmakers visit Second Street Learning Center to talk about funding challenges

(Feb 04, 2022)

“The services local day cares provide to the growing families in our area is absolutely vital as they ensure our children are receiving the care they need, while also allowing their parents to pursue their careers and earn a living,” Guzman said. Read more

 

Guzman secures $600,000 grant awarded to Berks Community Action Program

(Jan 27, 2022)

READING, Jan. 27 – State Rep. Manny Guzman, D-Berks, today announced the awarding of a $600,000 grant aimed to curb community violence in Berks County. This grant was awarded through the Violence Intervention and Prevention Program and administered by the Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency “This grant hones and expands upon our collective mission of providing positive, constructive outlets for our youth that will establish a solid foundation for them as they progress throughout life,” Guzman said. “Having personally benefited from the fantastic work The Berks Community Action Program does for our community, I know these grant dollars will ensure their programs succeed well into the future and continue to positively influence the lives of our youth.” Guzman went onto say, “This grant award shows the number of resources that continue to be brought back to the 127 th Legislative District. I will continue fighting to bring every available resource home for the betterment of our community.” This grant award will go towards a multitude of programs and services that aim to combat poverty, engage youth in positive social and educational activities in an effort to reduce and eliminate gang involvement and gun violence. Anyone seeking more information can reach Guzman’s office at 610-376-1529. Read more

 

Webinar: Grant Application Process

(Jan 26, 2022)

Watch webinar on the grant application process Read more

 

Guzman: Guarantee Alcohol Addiction Services

(Jan 24, 2022)

Guzman is concerned that revenue stream will disappear if the PLCB privatizes all alcohol sales. Read more

 

Now open for applications: Low-Income Household Water Assistance Program; preservation planning; and substance abuse education and reduction grant opportunities

(Jan 18, 2022)

STATE PROGRAMS NOW OPEN FOR APPLICATIONS: Pennsylvania Commission on Crime & Delinquency: Substance Abuse Education and Demand Reduction Category 1 (Adult) Funds (Funding Source: SAEDR Fund) Who May Apply : Nonprofit organizations may partner with governmental entities, including school districts, provided the nonprofit organization is the applicant. Use : To support implementation strategies aimed at combating opioid/heroin overdoses in Pennsylvania communities. Funds : Grants up to $150,000 over a two-year project period. Application Deadline : February 24, 2022 More Information : Click on https://egrants.pccd.pa.gov/Public/OpenAnnouncements.aspx . Pennsylvania Commission on Crime & Delinquency: Substance Abuse Education and Demand Reduction Category 1 (Youth) Funds (Funding Source: SAEDR Fund) Who May Apply : Nonprofit organizations may partner with governmental entities, including school districts, provided the nonprofit organization is the applicant. Use : To serve youth with research-based or evidence-based approaches to prevention, intervention, training, treatment, and education services to reduce substance use or provide resources to assist families in accessing these services. Funds : Grants up to $150,000 over a two-year project period. Application Deadline : February 24, 2022 More Information : Click Read more

 

Guzman welcomes $237,000 grant awarded for Reading Iron Playground improvements

(Dec 30, 2021)

READING, Dec. 30 – State Rep. Manny Guzman, D-Berks, today announced the awarding of a $237,000 grant to support the necessary upgrades and improvements to Reading Iron Playground. This grant was awarded through the Community Conservation Partnerships Grant Program and administered by the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources. “Ensuring our youth here in the great City of Reading have a safe, modern playground to utilize is of the utmost importance,” Guzman said. “Public parks have the innate ability to be the backdrop for our young folks to forge everlasting friendships and memories, and I am thrilled these grant dollars are going towards expanding upon that initiative for our community.” Guzman went onto say, “This grant award is the latest example of the influx of dollars being invested to revitalize the City of Reading. Reading’s future is bright, and I will continue to fight to bring these types of grant awards home to the 127 th Legislative District.” This grant award will go towards the construction of a basketball court, soccer field, pedestrian walkways and parking area, installation of play equipment with required safety surfacing and lighting, ADA access, landscaping, and other related site improvements. Anyone seeking more information can reach Guzman’s office at 610-376-1529. Read more

 

Rep. Kinkead and House Democrats defend election integrity

(Dec 15, 2021)

HARRISBURG, Dec. 15 – Today, state Rep. Emily Kinkead, D-Allegheny, was joined by fellow House Democrats for a news conference at the state Capitol where they voiced their opposition to H.B. 1800 , recent attempts by the GOP-led legislature to subvert the legislative process; and ongoing efforts by the Republican majority to undermine elections in Pennsylvania. “Republican lawmakers in Pennsylvania have made it clear that they do not trust our elections – except for elections that put members of their own party in power,” said Kinkead. “The Republican majority has wasted myriad resources over the last year by attacking our democratic institutions and repeatedly weaponizing constitutional amendments. All of this is being done while we are abdicating our responsibility to help Pennsylvanians who are struggling.” Rep. Manny Guzman, D-Berks, also spoke fiercely against the recent Republican-led legislation. “House Bill 1800 is the latest attempt to restrict access to the ballot box,” Guzman said. “Make no mistake, this is a well-coordinated effort to diminish voting participation in our Brown and Black communities. The restrictive use of drop boxes, shortening the window to register to vote, barriers to applying for mail-in ballots and submitting those mail-in ballots only begins to scratch the surface of the explicit measures targeting marginalized groups. Rather than proposing legislation that restricts access to the Read more

 

Guzman: Driving Pa. Forward

(Dec 14, 2021)

Guzman wants to allow undocumented individuals to obtain a legal driver's license to make it easier for them to support and provide for their families without endangering others lives and putting themselves at risk. Read more

 

Guzman announces $375,000 grant awarded to SAFE Berks to combat domestic violence

(Dec 08, 2021)

READING, Dec. 8 – State Rep. Manny Guzman, D-Berks, today announced the awarding of a $375,000 grant to support SAFE Berks’s initiative of combating violence against women. The grant was awarded through the STOP Violence Against Women Statewide Grant Funding Program and administered by the Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency. “Tragically, incidences of domestic violence against women continue to plague our community,” Guzman said. “These heartbreaking situations require immediate intervention, and this grant award will assist SAFE Berks in implementing the support these women need to overcome this trauma. “Breaking the vicious cycle of domestic abuse by providing the necessary tools and support to empower these women is vital in combating, and eventually ending, domestic abuse. SAFE Berks does great work for our community by providing a safe haven for these women to take proactive steps to remove themselves and their loved ones from these awful situations.” The grant will be utilized to continue a cross-system, collaborative response to violence against women crimes in the county. The intent of the project is to maintain specialized units in law enforcement and prosecution and direct services to victims of violence against women crimes in the county. For more information, contact Guzman’s office at 610-376-1529. Read more

 

Berks County primary election faces technical problems, errors and criticism
May 18, 2022

Guzman warns of problems with Berks County voting machines
May 17, 2022

Reading youth arts group regains nonprofit status, continues anti-violence work
May 05, 2022

Gov. Wolf: Commonwealth Can Afford Investments in Pennsylvanians; Continues Push for $2,000 Direct Payments to Pockets
Apr 28, 2022

Wolf in Reading to promote plan that would send $2,000 to some Pennsylvanians
Apr 28, 2022

Guzman commends nearly $1.5 million grant for Trexler Mansion rehabilitation
Apr 25, 2022

Guzman condemns deadly shooting, calls for peace and unity in Reading
Apr 18, 2022

Guzman to host virtual town hall on bail tonight
Mar 09, 2022

Winter 2022 Newsletter
Feb 28, 2022

Guzman welcomes appointment to House Appropriations Committee
Feb 09, 2022

Burgos to host Dominican Independence Day Event  
Feb 04, 2022

State lawmakers visit Second Street Learning Center to talk about funding challenges
Feb 04, 2022

Guzman secures $600,000 grant awarded to Berks Community Action Program
Jan 27, 2022

Webinar: Grant Application Process
Jan 26, 2022

Guzman: Guarantee Alcohol Addiction Services
Jan 24, 2022

Now open for applications: Low-Income Household Water Assistance Program; preservation planning; and substance abuse education and reduction grant opportunities
Jan 18, 2022

Guzman welcomes $237,000 grant awarded for Reading Iron Playground improvements
Dec 30, 2021

Rep. Kinkead and House Democrats defend election integrity
Dec 15, 2021

Guzman: Driving Pa. Forward
Dec 14, 2021

Guzman announces $375,000 grant awarded to SAFE Berks to combat domestic violence
Dec 08, 2021