IRVONA - After four decades of service in the 74th District, State Rep. Camille "Bud" George left office Friday having secured one final initiative in the works for a number of years.
A 42-pound steel beam recovered from the World Trade Center after the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks was recently approved for installation near the Mary Ellen Tiesi Memorial 9-11 Bridge in Irvona, George's office announced Friday.
George said the artifact, which he worked for years to secure, was a fitting memorial for Tiesi, who lost her life when the towers collapsed.
"I think it would be a fine way to memorialize this young lady even further," George said. "I'm happy to have been a part of that. I think it was a great thing that [the community] did by pulling together to honor her."
Irvona Borough officials had previously discussed incorporating an artifact from Ground Zero into the bridge design. A separate memorial to Tiesi adjacent to the bridge was also discussed.
Borough officials could not be reached for comment Friday.
On his last day in office, George, who was first elected as a state representative in 1974, thanked his wife, Edna, and constituents in the 74th District for their support during his time in office.
"This has been my highest honor, and I will be forever grateful for the chance to represent my friends and neighbors in Harrisburg," George said.
