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By Steve Mocarsky smocarsky@timesleader.com
Staff Writer
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BUTLER TWP. – The Butler Township Community Center has been used so heavily by so many groups since it opened, it took eight months to get settled and representatives together for a dedication.

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Former state representative Todd Eachus addresses a crowd Friday at the dedication of the Butler Township Community Center.

STEVE MOCARSKY/THE TIMES LEADER

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With assistance from local, county and state officials and representatives of community organizations, former state representative Todd Eachus cuts a ribbon Friday to dedicate the Butler Township Community Center.

STEVE MOCARSKY/THE TIMES LEADER

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About 75 people gathered outside the state-of-the-art facility Friday morning to celebrate the township’s $3 million accomplishment, which offers athletic facilities, meeting space, a new home for the township’s senior citizens and offices for American Legion Post 795.

“This is a great addition to the township and finally we’re giving it a proper dedication,” said John McGran, of the township recreation board.

After American Legion Chaplain Walter James offered a prayer, Drums Elementary-Middle School student Casey Diehl sang the national anthem as Scouts from Cub Scout Pack 63 raised American and state flags.

McGran introduced former state representative Todd Eachus, who secured a $1.5 million grant to help construct the center.

“This facility has become a jewel for our community, and I am thrilled that it’s come together so beautifully,” Eachus said, noting assistance from Luzerne County commissioners, who were represented Friday by Maryanne Petrilla and Stephen A. Urban.

Supervisor Chairman Ransom Young said the township has a great sports complex, and “We now can have winter activities,” thanks to the center.

He noted the work of township manager Steve Hahn; Petrilla, who was manager before Hahn; former supervisor Judy Pekarek; Supervisor Bob Schellhamer; Eachus and former Gov. Ed Rendell.

McGran said the Area Agency on Aging plays a big part in the senior center at the building.

“We are so excited to be able to have our lunch program and activities here,” said Brenda Lispi, of the Area Agency on Aging. Supervisor Brian Kisenwether called the center “a great place for the seniors to meet (for) friendship and companionship.”

Prior to a ribbon cutting and reception that followed, state Rep. Tarah Toohil, R-Butler Township, delivered a speech to commemorate Veterans Day and thank veterans for their service.

Hahn said the township took out a $2.4 million loan to cover the remainder of the cost of the building and to buy 88 acres of nearby land for recreation use.