[Congressional Record Volume 156, Number 125 (Thursday, September 16, 2010)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1665]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                        IN HONOR OF GROTTO PIZZA

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                         HON. MICHAEL N. CASTLE

                              of delaware

                    in the house of representatives

                      Thursday, September 16, 2010

  Mr. CASTLE. Madam Speaker, it is with great pleasure that I recognize 
one of the great small businesses in the state of Delaware, Grotto 
Pizza, as they celebrate their 50th anniversary. With over 18 locations 
throughout Delaware, Grotto Pizza has certainly put its stamp on our 
great state, not only as a successful restaurant, but as a community 
leader.
  At the age of 17, Dominick Pulieri, with the help of his family 
opened the first Grotto Pizza in Rehoboth Beach, Delaware in 1960. 
Starting from humble beginnings, Dominick worked tireless hours to 
produce a unique product for the community. His efforts paid off as 
only three years after the initial opening, Dominick opened a second 
location. With growing demand and statewide popularity, Grotto Pizza 
opened as a year-round restaurant in 1974. As they celebrate their 50th 
anniversary, Grotto Pizza now employs over 800 individuals year-round 
swelling to 1,300 in summer months. This is a testament to the strong 
leadership Dominick provided, great customer service and most 
importantly delicious food! Not only has Grotto Pizza been a successful 
small business, their community service and loyalty to the state of 
Delaware have been second to none.
  Throughout its 50-year history, Grotto Pizza has been a strong and 
active member of Delaware's community. The restaurant sponsors over 700 
organizations each year including schools, fire and police departments, 
and sports teams. However, Grotto Pizza is quick to lend a helping hand 
outside of Delaware as they have participated and sent aid to the 
tsunami and Katrina relief efforts, as well as recently contributing 
over $24,000 towards the earthquake relief in Haiti. Their many 
contributions to the local community and nation are strong examples of 
the positive impact a small business can make.
  I am proud to represent a state where small businesses like Grotto 
Pizza reside. I consider Dominick Pulieri to be a friend of mine and I 
am proud of the many accomplishments that he and Grotto Pizza have had 
over the past 50 years. I wish them all the best as they celebrate this 
significant milestone.

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