Sen. Argall Remarks to the Senate of Pennsylvania on the passing of John Anczarski, Ringtown (Schuylkill County):

Senate Session: Wednesday, June 23, 2010

Mr. President,

Yesterday, Schuylkill County experienced a heartbreaking tragedy when one of our bright, young residents passed away after being struck by a vehicle in New Mexico.

John Anczarski of Ringtown was part of a four-man team called "The Pink Pedal: Riding Hard to Fight Breast Cancer,” and making the cross-country trek en route to San Diego to raise money and awareness for the Susan G. Komen Foundation- Race for the Cure - and the fight against breast cancer.

John was a 2008 graduate of North Schuylkill Junior/Senior High School in Fountain Springs and was currently enrolled at the University of Colorado at Boulder.

John and his fellow cyclists began their cross-country journey from Schuylkill County on May 23.

The pain of this tragedy is felt not only in Schuylkill County, but literally across the nation, as these four young men were cheered on by thousands of strangers while on their journey.

Four years ago, I had the privilege of attending a special ceremony for John as he earned the rank of Eagle Scout.

Mr. President, this is truly a heartbreaking tragedy, and I know I speak for all of us when I say our hearts and prayers are with John’s family and friends during this very difficult time. I certainly hope that they can find strength and comfort from the prayers and thoughts of an entire state that join in their mourning.