Washington, DC - Congressman Tom Rice (R-SC) released the following statement regarding the passing of former Myrtle Beach Mayor John Rhodes. 

"John Rhodes passed Sunday. He served 3 terms as Mayor of my beloved hometown. He was bold and tenacious in advancing what he thought was right. He regularly plowed through obstacles that others would ring insurmountable. We are better for his effort."

"We played golf together. We worked together both before my entering politics and after. During my two years as Chair of County Council, we worked hard and at least for a short time, made great progress in soothing the seemingly perpetual and terribly self-destructive feud between the County and Myrtle Beach."

"Years ago I brought the Chairman of the Transportation Committee to the district to talk about roads, beach renourishment, ports, etc. In classic John Rhodes fashion he said, “I’m going to give him an earful,” about various projects. I said, “John, this guy is from Pennsylvania. He owes us not one thing. If I were you, instead of fussing, I’d bring him a key to the city.” The next day at the reception, John showed up with the Key. Beaches were renourished 2 years later!"

"He was my friend and I will miss him greatly."