[Congressional Record Volume 145, Number 64 (Wednesday, May 5, 1999)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E870-E871]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




HONORING THE RETIREMENT OF CARMEL CASABONA AFTER 20 YEARS OF DEDICATED 
                                SERVICE

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. ROSA L. DeLAURO

                             of connecticut

                    in the house of representatives

                         Wednesday, May 5, 1999

  Mr. DeLAURO. Mr. Speaker, tonight we celebrate Carmel Casabona, who 
retired from Area Cooperative Educational Services (ACES) on January 
22, 1999 after 20 years of dedicated service. As a committed vocational 
education teacher with ACES' Secondary Program and later as a Job Coach 
with the ACCESS program, she has worked tirelessly to assist adult 
clients with disabilities, and engage them in their community. It is 
with tremendous pleasure that I rise today to salute this incredible 
woman, who has been a dear friend to me and has contributed so much to 
the Greater New Haven area.
  For more than two decades, ACES has been a crucial source of support 
and assistance for people with a range of disabilities. Many 
individuals have benefitted from the nurturing, caring environment, and 
innovative approach that ACES offers. From employment opportunities to 
residential skills, this institution is an invaluable resource for the 
disabled. Carmel certainly reflects these goals.
  Carm's long career with ACES is characterized by a lifetime of 
dedication to her adult clients. Although supervising 28-30 clients, 
Carm carefully assessed each person's abilities, and chose the 
appropriate work experience. By focusing on each individual's specific 
needs, she has helped her clients reach their full potential, while 
providing positive reinforcement. She also offered each participant 
increased independence, encouragement and dignity.
  Aside from her daily work responsibilities, Carm offered her personal 
time in organizing

[[Page E871]]

the annual Christmas party for her program participants, their families 
and friends. This event was eagerly anticipated every year as a time to 
come together to enjoy the holidays. When called upon by Carm to assist 
with party plans, volunteers could not refuse. Carm, through her 
volunteer crew, prepared all the food, provided music and hung 
decorations, all of which were done with tremendous energy and care.
  On a personal level, I have witnessed Carm's interaction with her 
clients. It is easy to notice her genuine affection for them, as well 
as their fondness for her. She always approached her work with a 
compassionate heart, a cheerful smile, and a wonderful sense of humor. 
She will be sorely missed by clients and colleagues alike.
  Because of this level of dedication, it is with great pleasure that I 
commend Carmel Casabona for 20 years of hard work and public service. I 
join with her daughter Tracy, her three grandaughters, family members, 
and friends in thanking her for caring so much for her clients, and in 
wishing her a very enjoyable retirement.

                          ____________________