For Immediate Release
10/18/08

Statement from Senate President Pro Tempore Joe Scarnati and Senate Majority Leader Dominic Pileggi Regarding Senator James J. Rhoades

Jim Rhoades was a remarkable man, and a true friend. It is impossible to properly express how much we will miss him personally, and how much the Senate of Pennsylvania will miss his presence.

Jim was a one-of-a-kind senator. His down-to-earth approach to solving problems reflected his roots in Schuylkill County. His experience as a teacher and coach at Pottsville and Mahanoy City High Schools, and as the principal of Mahanoy Area Junior High School, permeated every decision he made as a senator.

As the chairman of the Senate Education Committee, Jim was a statewide leader on education issues. He was a part of every major education initiative in recent history. Senator Rhoades’ legacy includes the Pennsylvania Safe Schools Act, the Pennsylvania Interscholastic Athletics Accountability Act, and the Head Start Supplemental Assistance Program.

Jim’s hard work extended to other areas, as well. With his booming voice, he always spoke forcefully while fighting for his constituents. This session, he successfully pushed for an expansion of PACE and PACENET benefits. He was a leader on many issues impacting the economy and the lives of working Pennsylvanians.

Without Senator Rhoades, there will be a large void in the Senate of Pennsylvania. We extend our deep sympathy to Jim’s family and friends.

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