Cartwright honored Pittston's Pulpit Boxing by having a flag raised at the U.S. Capitol.

Pittston Mayor Michael Lombard, Rep. Matt Cartwright (left) and Angel Johnson (center) share a lighthearted moment on stage during a ceremony to present the U.S. flag to the U.S. Capitol in Washington, D.C., held at Pulpit Boxing in Pittston on Monday.

Tony Calaio | Times Leader

Rev. Samuel Washington, front right, and Rep. Matt Cartwright, front left, pose for a photo at Pulpit Boxing in Pittston. Back row, from left, are Chris Guides, Pittston Mayor Michael Lombard, Angel Johnson, Jonathan Rivera, Yaya Banks, hiding Michael DeMarco, and Lucas Myra.

Tony Calaio | Times Leader

Rev. Samuel Washington (right), founder and owner of Pulpit Boxing in Pittston, thanked Rep. Matt Cartwright (left) for his continued support of Pulpit Boxing and for the donation of the new U.S. flag that was raised at the Capitol in Washington, D.C. on Monday.

Tony Calaio | Times Leader

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PITTSTON – On Monday afternoon, Rep. Matt Cartwright donated the American flag that flies at the U.S. Capitol in Washington, D.C. to non-profit gym Pulpit Boxing. It was also announced, through the City of Pittston, that Pulpit Boxing will have a new, larger home with bleachers.

Founded and owned by the Rev. Samuel Washington, Pulpit Boxing focuses on helping kids build self-esteem while learning boxing skills.

Rev. Washington contacted Congressman Cartwright to ask if he could replace the American flag hanging in the boxing gym with one that has more meaning.

“When we reached out to the congressman, he was generous enough to not only buy the flag, but deliver it to show his support,” Washington said. “Anyone can try to get votes, but he didn't come here to get votes, he came here to support me. He always comes here to support me, and I'm so grateful to him.”

“Pulpit Boxing is one of those organizations that does the best for local residents of all ages,” Cartwright said. “When local residents come to Pulpit Boxing, they feel at home and they feel part of a family. There have been some great stories of growth, trials and redemption that have come out of this gym.”

Cartwright added, “This organization could not have had a more fitting start as it has been a source of hope, a source of purpose and for some, downright life-changing. Bottom line, Pulpit Boxing has had a huge impact on the lives of so many members of our community and we are so grateful to have this organization in our midst.”

Cartwright then read a proclamation for Pulpit Boxing from Joseph R. DiPietro, Architect of the U.S. Capitol in Washington, D.C.

Pittston Mayor Michael Lombard thanked Rev. Washington for his many years of service to Pulpit Boxing.

“We often visit a location and talk about what's going on in the area and what we think about it,” Lombardo said. “I live four houses down the street and I see them working day and night, so I can tell you what it's really like. They are very important to our community and do a great job. The chaplains teach individuals not only the skills and qualities they need to be good boxers, but also the skills and qualities they need to be good citizens not only in our community but in the larger community.”

Lombardo said he and the city are working on plans to relocate Pulpit Boxing to a new, larger facility in the near future that will have space for spectators.

“He (Pastor Washington) has been in discussions with us (the city) and we are looking at a new location for a bigger ring and space for spectators,” Lombardo added. “We are looking at several locations and are also looking at grant funding to help us financially.”

Michael DeMarco, a 15-year-old boxer who trains there, spoke about being part of the Pulpit Boxing family and expressed his gratitude to everyone involved, especially Rev. Washington.

“This sport has truly changed my life,” DeMarco said. “I don't know what I'd be doing without the ring. I just wanted to say thank you.”