Dear Friend,
 
This is Mayor Lou Barletta from Hazleton, Pennsylvania.
 
I wanted to take a moment to thank your for your financial support of the Illegal Immigration Relief Ordinance, which City council passed on July 13.
 
As you can imagine, my office has been inundated by thousands of e-mails, letters, and phone calls of support - from coast to coast and border tot border.
 
I am grateful for every sign of support, and I personally thank you for your commitment.
 
Soon, hazleton will implement the ordinace, which intends to make my city one of the toughest places in the country for illegal aliens by punishing the landlords who rent to illegal aliens and companies who knowingly hire them.
 
After suffering through several high-profile crimes involving illegal aliens, we've sent a clear message that we've had enough. Hazleton is working to take back our streets, our neighborhood, and our community.
 
Many people have asked for copies of the Illegal Immigration Relief Ordinnce to present to their own elected officials.
 
Others have asked to be updated on our progress here in Hazleton.
 
I have created www.smalltowndefenders.com, a website that will be updated as events happen to keep you informed of our progress.
 
on www.smalltowndefenders.com, you will be able to find copies of the Illegal Immigration Relief Ordinance, as well as postings from me regarding the implementation of it and our responses to any legal challenges.
 
Together, we can make a difference in America.
 
Thank you for your continued support.
 
Sincerely
 
Louis J. Barletta
Mayor, City of Hazleton, Pennsylvania