[Congressional Record Volume 170, Number 73 (Monday, April 29, 2024)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E401]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




      HONORING THE LIFE AND LEGACY OF LAWRENCE ``LARRY'' AMENDOLA

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. ROSA L. DeLAURO

                             of connecticut

                    in the house of representatives

                         Monday, April 29, 2024

  Ms. DeLAURO. Mr. Speaker, it is with a heavy heart that I use today 
to pay tribute to the life and legacy of an outstanding member of the 
New Haven community and my dear friend, Lawrence Amendola. Larry was an 
extraordinary man who dedicated a lifetime of service to the City of 
New Haven, particularly the Wooster Square neighborhood we both called 
home.
  Born and raised in New Haven, Connecticut, Larry enlisted in the 
United States Army after graduating from high school. Stationed in 
Germany for the majority of his military service, he was honorably 
discharged before returning to New Haven to begin his career. Larry 
spent his professional life as a civil servant, beginning his City 
employment at the CETA Program and later working for the Department of 
Parks and Recreation, retiring at the age of 75.
  Larry also served as President of AFSCME Local 3144 Management Union, 
one of City's largest unions, for over 20 years. It was in this role 
that he had the most impact--where he fought on behalf of hundreds of 
city employees, negotiating contracts that ensured good wages and 
health benefits as well as pension and retirement security. Larry 
understood better than most the benefits of the union and he worked 
tirelessly on behalf of those he represented.
  While Larry dedicated his professional life to the City of New Haven, 
he also dedicated much of his time and energy to the community as well. 
He served as Vice-President and President of the Saint Andrew the 
Apostle Society--one of the Italian American social organizations whose 
goal is to preserve and celebrate our shared Italian heritage. Larry 
served in these roles for more than 30 years and volunteered countless 
hours at the Society's annual festival. His work in the community was 
recognized when he was awarded the Steve Vuolo Award.
  I am fortunate in that I knew Larry for most of my life. He was a 
close family friend, having worked with both of my parents over the 
years. I had the opportunity to work with Larry early in my career. I 
was working with the Community Action Institute--at the Skill Center on 
Cedar Street--and Larry and I partnered to organize additional city 
employees. He was not only a friend, but a great mentor. I learned a 
lot from him and was always grateful for his support and friendship 
throughout my own career.
  Lawrence ``Larry'' Amendola was a remarkable member of our community. 
His passing leaves a hole in our community that will not easily be 
filled. I extend my deepest sympathies to his companion of nearly 20 
years, Flora D'Elsi, as well as his many cherished nieces, nephews, 
great and great-great nieces and nephews. His passion, advocacy, and 
commitment to service will long serve as an example to which we should 
all strive.

                          ____________________