[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 145 (1999), Part 10]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page 14715]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]



  HONORING CARL A. BALESTRACCI, JR., ON THE OCCASION OF HIS RETIREMENT

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. ROSA L. DeLAURO

                             of connecticut

                    in the house of representatives

                         Tuesday, June 29, 1999

  Ms. DeLAURO. Mr. Speaker, it is with great pleasure that I rise today 
to join in paying tribute to one of Connecticut's finest school 
administrators and community activists. People like Carl Balestracci 
are what make communities strong. From his important work educating the 
young people of Guilford for the past 32 years to his community 
involvement in many other settings, he has dedicated his life to the 
people of Guilford.
  I often speak of our nation's need for talented, creative, 
enthusiastic teachers who are ready to help our children learn and 
grow. My good friend Carl is just that kind of educator. Throughout his 
career, he has touched the lives of thousands of children from 
elementary school to high school. Carl began as a special education 
teacher in New Haven--working with some of our community's most 
vulnerable children. He has been leading the fine Guilford schools for 
nearly two decades, and the most important testament to his talent is 
the capability of the intelligent young people that have emerged from 
these schools.
  Public education is the cornerstone of the American dream, leveling 
the playing field and providing every child with the opportunity to 
make the most of his or her talents. It is talented professionals like 
Carl who truly shape the leaders of tomorrow. He is dedicated to the 
positive development of not only our children's intellect, but their 
character development as well. As a participant in the Assets Program 
along with leaders from the Guilford Police, local clergy, and other 
educators, he has led a community wide effort to foster strong values 
and character in our youth.
  As a lifelong resident of Guilford, Carl is deeply involved in the 
life of our community. His active participation in the Democratic Town 
Committee, the Police Commission, and the Fife and Drum Corps have made 
him so visible and highly-regarded that I am sure many would agree that 
Carl Balestracci is truly a Guilford institution.
  Today, as Carl celebrates his retirement, I would like to express my 
deepest thanks and appreciation for his tireless efforts for the town 
of Guilford. He is a community leader who is second to none, and his 
talent and commitment have truly left our community a better place. It 
is with great pride that I join friends and family to wish Carl many 
more years of health and happiness.




                          ____________________