[Congressional Record Volume 145, Number 52 (Thursday, April 15, 1999)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E663]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]


          HONORING THE SHEPELS AND MARIA'S ITALIAN RESTAURANT

                                 ______
                                 

                             HON. RON KLINK

                            of pennsylvania

                    in the house of representatives

                        Thursday, April 15, 1999

  Mr. KLINK. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor two outstanding 
citizens from Beaver, Pennsylvania. To the delight of the community, 
George and Maria DiLeonardo-Shepel reopened a fine family restaurant 
known as Maria's on April 1, 1999. The Shepels' hard work and 
commitment to this neighborhood institution are testimony to the strong 
work ethic of western Pennsylvania.
  I would like to recognize the Shepels for their contributions to 
their community. Without these types of individuals, many of our 
neighborhoods would lose their local traditions. Their dedication and 
hard work are deserving of commendation.
  The Shepels bought Maria's in 1988 and successfully modeled the 
restaurant after an authentic Italian eatery. For six years, this 
establishment was a popular neighborhood meeting place. During my first 
campaign for the U.S. Congress, the Shepels were among my first 
supporters, and invited me to dine in their restaurant. I will never 
forget their friendship or their kind words of support.
  The couple has spent the last few years renovating the restaurant and 
restoring it to its original condition. By providing quality food and 
friendly service, the Shepels have ensured that Maria's will be a 
permanent fixture in this community for years to come. My fellow 
colleagues, it is with great pleasure that I rise and applaud George 
and Maria DiLeonardo-Shepel. I hope they continue to enjoy tremendous 
success and wish them the best of luck in the future.

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