[Congressional Record Volume 147, Number 21 (Wednesday, February 14, 2001)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E197]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




              HONORING ISADORE TEMKIN ON HER 80TH BIRTHDAY

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. ROSA L. DeLAURO

                             of connecticut

                    in the house of representatives

                      Wednesday, February 14, 2001

  Ms. DeLAURO. Mr. Speaker, it is with great pleasure that I today join 
the many friends and family members of my dear friend, Isadore Temkin, 
in extending my warmest wishes as he celebrates his 80th birthday. 
Throughout his life, he has been an outstanding leader in his 
community, always demonstrating a deep commitment to public service.
  Issie, along with his wife Zena, has been actively involved in 
Connecticut's political arena for over forty-five years. Many of 
Connecticut's elected officials have benefitted from his support 
including former Governor Ella T. Grasso, former Senator Abraham 
Ribicoff, current Senator Christopher Dodd and myself. His invaluable 
friendship is a tremendous gift we have all cherished.
  In the many years that I have known Is, I have continually been in 
awe of the incredible commitment he has to his hometown of Torrington, 
Connecticut. Though he has never held a public office, there are few 
that have had a greater impact on this community. For sixty years, he 
has been at the forefront of every major issue that has faced this 
eclectic New England city. With an enduring need to enrich this small 
community, Is was instrumental in the founding of two of the City's 
most famous treasures. Under the direction of former Parks and 
Recreation Supervisor Carl Bozenski and Is, the magical charm of 
Bozenski's Christmas Village came to life. A Christmas tradition for 
fifty years, this charming village is open only during the month of 
December offering children a chance to visit with Santa and explore his 
workshop, complete with elves and live reindeer. As one of the original 
founders of the Nutmeg Ballet, he helped to bring the love of arts to 
Litchfield County. Internationally recognized for dance training for 
twenty years, the Nutmeg also offers instruction in music and drama. 
Both Christmas Village and the Nutmeg Ballet have become Connecticut 
landmarks, much in part to Is Temkin's efforts.
  Throughout his professional career, Is has practiced dentistry in the 
Torrington community and is continuing to do so today. Serving as a 
member of the Connecticut State Dental Commission, the regulatory board 
for dentistry, he ensured that residents received proper care from 
dentists practicing in Connecticut. Keeping true to his endless efforts 
to improve his community, he opened a clinic in memory of his brother 
and brother-in-law, both deceased dentists. For five years, the Dental 
Clinic at Brooker Memorial has ensured that hundreds of uninsured 
children are provided with the dental care they need. His unparalleled 
dedication and compassion is an inspiration to us all.
  Through his innumerable good works, Is has left an indelible mark on 
the Torrington community and the State of Connecticut. I am honored to 
rise today and join his wife Zena, his children; Alan, Nan, and Bruce; 
family, friends, and colleagues in paying tribute to Isadore Temkin as 
he celebrates this wonderful occasion. My best wishes for many more 
years of health and happiness. HAPPY BIRTHDAY!

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