The Greater Reading Chamber of Commerce and Industry has endorsed Republican Larry Medaglia for the vacant 11th Senatorial District.

Medaglia is running in a special election March 15 to fill the remaining two years of the Senate term of the late Sen. Mike O'Pake, who died in December.

Chamber officials made the endorsement announcement at an afternoon press conference at the Chamber headquarters in the Gateway building in Reading.

"I'm honored the Chamber recognizes my commitment to business growth and a strong local economy," Medaglia said in a written statement. "As a State Senator, I will work tirelessly to champion business-friendly initiatives to keep our community vibrant and strong."

Today's announcement follows earlier endorsements received by Medgalia from Citizens Against Higher Taxes and Pennsylvanians for Effective Government. Berks County Commissioners Mark C. Scott and Christian Leinbach have also endorsed Medaglia.

Medaglia currently serves as the Berks County Register of Wills/Clerk of Orphans' Court.

For more information about Medaglia, visit his campaign website at www.larrymedagliaforsenate.com