[Congressional Record Volume 152, Number 60 (Tuesday, May 16, 2006)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E839]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]


[[Page E839]]
TRIBUTE TO CHIEF FRANCISCO ORTIZ AS HE RECEIVES THE 2006 DISTINGUISHED 
                        COMMUNITY SERVICE AWARD

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. ROSA L. DeLAURO

                             of connecticut

                    in the house of representatives

                         Tuesday, May 16, 2006

  Ms. DeLAURO. Mr. Speaker, today, in my hometown of New Haven, 
Connecticut, friends, family and colleagues will gather to pay tribute 
to one of our community's most outstanding citizens and a dear friend 
of mine. I am proud to stand today and join the Connecticut Anti-
Defamation League as they honor New Haven Police Chief Francisco Ortiz, 
Jr. with the 2006 Distinguished Community Service Award.
  We owe a great debt of gratitude to those who dedicate themselves to 
public service, especially those who serve as law enforcement 
officials. These brave men and women face dangers and challenges that 
few of us can imagine. Over twenty-five years ago, Francisco (Cisco) 
Ortiz joined the New Haven Police Department and, over his career, 
worked his way through the ranks. In his time with the department he 
has been assigned to every major unit in the Department serving with 
both integrity and distinction. There were very few that were surprised 
when he was selected as Chief of the Department--a role in which he has 
served for the last several years.
  Even more inspiring than his leadership in the Department has been 
the diversity of roles he has taken on in the community. Volunteer, 
board member, department liaison--Chief Ortiz has been a strong and 
vocal advocate for the families and residents of New Haven. Working 
with such organizations as the Community Consultation Center, Easter 
Seals/Goodwill Industries, and the New Haven Labor Day Road Race, Chief 
Ortiz has demonstrated a unique compassion and concern for our 
community and his efforts have touched the lives of many. Chief Ortiz 
is also a member of the Juvenile Justice Advisory Committee, the 
Connecticut Puerto Rican Parade Committee, and the Connecticut Special 
Olympics Law Enforcement Torch Run. He is also a Senior Fellow and one 
of the founders of the Yale Child Study Center's Development/Community 
Policing Program--a program which I have been proud to be a part of. 
His active participation in our community as a professional, volunteer, 
and advocate has made all the difference.
  Each year, the Connecticut Anti-Defamation League presents the 
Distinguished Community Service Award to an outstanding leader in the 
community, recognizing their unique commitment and dedication. Chief 
Ortiz is a remarkable reflection of the true spirit of community 
service. I am proud to stand today to join his family, friends, and the 
many colleagues and community members who have gathered this evening to 
extend my heart-felt congratulations to my dear friend, Chief Francisco 
(Cisco) Ortiz, Jr. as he is honored with this very special award. It is 
a fitting tribute to his many years of service to our community and his 
continued dedication to improving the quality of life for others.

                          ____________________