Assembly Phil Palmesano (R,C-Corning) recently welcomed former Assemblyman Jim Bacalles back to the Assembly chamber. Assemblyman Bacalles faithfully served his constituents in the Assembly from 1995 through 2010. Before serving in the Assembly, Bacalles served as the Mayor of Corning, NY for four years as well as serving on the Steuben County Legislature for 10 years. Palmesano worked for Bacalles from 1995-2004 while he served in the Assembly.

“It was an absolute honor to welcome back to Albany, not only my predecessor but my former boss, mentor and friend, Jim Bacalles. I had the great privilege to work for Jim for nine years. I learned so very much from him. Jim worked tirelessly to help the constituents he served in the Southern Tier and Finger Lakes Region. The most important thing Jim taught and demonstrated to me every day was you certainly could be honorable and serve in politics. Jim truly epitomized what it meant to be a public servant. When I was first elected, I knew I had big shoes to fill and I hope when all is said and done, I will have lived up to the expectation of public service Jim Bacalles demonstrated and set for the people of the Southern Tier and Finger Lakes,” said Palmesano.