[Congressional Record Volume 155, Number 28 (Wednesday, February 11, 2009)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E243]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                       HONORING WILLIAM BERLINER

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. LYNN C. WOOLSEY

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                      Wednesday, February 11, 2009

  Ms. WOOLSEY. Madam Speaker, I rise with sadness today to honor a 
friend of the Petaluma Community, William ``Bill'' Berliner, who passed 
away at his home in Petaluma, California, on January 21, 2009.
  Bill was a central figure in his adopted community of Petaluma, 
California, while remaining true to his Chicago roots. After visiting 
his brother Andy in Petaluma, Bill moved to town in 1973 and noticed 
the absence of any place serving a good deep-dish pizza, a style 
invented in Chicago. In 1978 he opened Old Chicago Pizza in the heart 
of downtown where it has provided locals with an authentic and tasty 
food in a warm and family-friendly environment.
  The restaurant has also provided opportunities for jobs for young 
people and long-term work for trusted employees. My son Michael worked 
at Old Chicago as a youth learning his way in the workforce, as did my 
daughter-in-law Lisa. Happily the restaurant, under the ownership of 
two employees who have been with the restaurant for well over 20 years, 
will continue in business.
  Bill was active in the Petaluma Downtown Association and supported 
nonprofits such as the Carousel Fund which assists children battling 
serious illnesses. He always spoke his mind about the issues of the day 
in Petaluma, while he continued to root for Chicago sports teams. As a 
former drag racer and pianist in a jazz ensemble, Bill used his wide-
ranging interests and hands-on style to create a special place and a 
special spirit for the community.
  Madam Speaker, Bill Berliner's passing has left an empty space in our 
town and in his family. He is survived by twin daughters Angela and 
Jordana and his mother Clarice Saltiel as well as his brother Andy 
Berliner. Petaluma will miss Bill's involvement, but we are grateful 
for his imprint on our community, as well as for the delicious Old 
Chicago pizza.

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