[Congressional Record Volume 143, Number 160 (Thursday, November 13, 1997)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E2362]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




           TRIBUTE TO FORMER NEW HAVEN MAYOR BIAGIO DI LIETO

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                          HON. ROSA L. DeLAURO

                             of connecticut

                    in the house of representatives

                      Thursday, November 13, 1997

  Ms. DeLAURO. Mr. Speaker, tonight, in New Haven, CT, Biagio DiLieto 
will join with close friends and family to celebrate his 75th birthday. 
I have respected and admired Ben DiLieto for years, and am grateful for 
the opportunity to recognize a man who has dedicated his life to the 
city of New Haven.
  Ben DiLieto began his public career in 1952. Serving as a police 
officer and later as police chief, Ben quickly learned how to 
effectively address the needs of the city's residents. He interacted 
with the community and embraced its diversity. Ben was determined to 
make local government work for average citizens by addressing their 
needs on a personal level. Residents of New Haven came to know Ben 
DiLieto as a person who cared and would eagerly roll up his sleeves 
when hard work needed to be done. Ben earned the trust of New Haven's 
citizens and they elected him mayor in 1979.
  Mayor DiLieto served for five consecutive terms. During those years, 
he was dedicated to understanding and meeting the needs of his 
constituents, particularly those in the greatest need. Mayor DiLieto 
worked diligently to ensure funding for social service programs that 
benefited children, elderly, and the disabled. He fought to obtain 
funding for emergency services and education. He championed the 
interests of people with real needs and sought real solutions. Indeed, 
it is difficult to measure the magnitude of Ben DiLieto's contributions 
to the city of New Haven, for he has played such a large role in our 
community. Ben DiLieto truly changed the face of our city.
  On a personal note, Ben has always been a friend who is reliable and 
supportive, genuine and sincere. His commitment and diligence are the 
cornerstone of strong and effective local government, and his belief in 
public service has inspired me time and time again.
  It is with great pleasure that I commend Ben DiLieto for a lifetime 
of achievement and service. I join his wife Rose, his family, and his 
many friends in wishing Ben a very happy 75th birthday. Ben truly 
embodies the best New Haven politics has to offer, and it is my deepest 
hope that we will have the benefit of his wisdom and kindness for many 
years to come.

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