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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE |
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Majority
Leader Bill DeWeese |
  
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DeWeese joins advocates to celebrate 1 million rides
HARRISBURG, Oct. 10 – House Majority Leader Bill DeWeese was pleased to join local activist John Lorence this week for a statewide celebration of the Persons with Disabilities Rural Shared Ride Program.
"The Shared Ride Program enables people with disabilities to enjoy their freedom and independence to travel to work, school, religious services, doctor appointments or recreational events," said DeWeese, D-Greene/Fayette/Washington. "I was honored to join John and the PA Transportation Alliance and Tri-County Patriots for Independent Living to celebrate the fact that -- one million times -- Pennsylvanians with disabilities have benefited from this important program.
"I am continually inspired by John’s enthusiasm for organizing, focusing and directing the efforts of so many people across our Commonwealth. The success of this program is a testament to his fortitude and his commitment to making life better for other people. The program is one of the greatest civil rights victories for Pennsylvanians with disabilities this decade."
DeWeese and Greene County resident Lorence took part in a Capitol ceremony to recognize the Shared Ride Program’s one millionth rider.
"I’ve known Bill DeWeese for more than 30 years and he’s always been there for us. He’s always been a friend to organizations that represent those with disabilities," said Lorence, coordinator of the PA Transportation Alliance and Tri-County Patriots for Independent Living. "Several years ago, when I told Bill that we were interested in expanding the program, he spoke up for us at the state budget table and he let other leaders across the state know how important this funding was for so many people."
The program began as a pilot in 2001 and was gradually expanded to more counties due in part to the continued advocacy of people with disabilities. All 65 eligible counties had the program by last year. Allegheny and Philadelphia Counties have other programs.
The program provides grants to local transportation providers to offer door-to-door transportation on shared ride buses.
ATTENTION EDITORS: High resolution photos of DeWeese and Lorence at the event are available for download here http://www.pahouse.com/deweese/gallery.asp.
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