FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
February 9, 2008

RICHMOND-Senator R. Creigh Deeds released the following statement today:

"Virginia lost an indefatigable public servant and one of her favorite sons yesterday. When he served in Richmond, former Delegate Mitch Van Yahres was the conscience of the House of Delegates and a leader whom colleagues of all political stripes could turn to for guidance, knowledge and friendship. For me, his career was defined by giving a voice to the voiceless, standing up for those who had no advocate, and above all, putting the moral imperatives of a free society-liberty, justice, and the rule of law for all-before the political necessities of the day. Mitch will certainly be missed, but the shadow cast by a lifetime of service to his Commonwealth has and will continue to inspire the next generation of political leaders for years to come."