While immigration has been an on-and-off issue nationally, it has nearly torn the proud community of Hazleton in Luzerne County apart. It has touched the legal, business, political and religious communities here, where coal was once king and immigrants from Eastern Europe once faced similar battles.
Tampa Bay Rays manager Joe Maddon might be Hazleton's most famous native son. He is also one of its most important considering his recent efforts that are facilitating the bridging of cultures. In December, his Hazleton Integration Project raised $25,000 toward better uniting new Hispanic residents with long-time locals.