[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 147 (2001), Part 10]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page 14615]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]



     HONORING OTELLO AND CAROLYN MASSONI ON THEIR 50TH ANNIVERSARY

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                          HON. ROSA L. DeLAURO

                             of connecticut

                    in the house of representatives

                        Wednesday, July 25, 2001

  Ms. DeLAURO. Mr. Speaker, it gives me great pleasure to rise today to 
extend my sincere congratulations to two outstanding community members 
and my good friends, Otello and Carolyn Massoni, as they celebrate 
their 50th wedding anniversary. Married for a half a century, they are 
a wonderful couple who have both done much for their community in 
Wallingford, Connecticut.
  Perhaps best known for their incredible working relationship, Otello 
and Carolyn are a true inspiration for any couple. They have worked on 
a variety of projects--always together--though their most popular are 
their beautiful reproductions of Faberge Eggs and fabulous dollhouses.
  Their dollhouse hobby began when Otello was recuperating from a 
surgical procedure. Working from a kit, Otello has built a number of 
breathtaking buildings in a wide variety of architectural styles. 
Carolyn took on the responsibility of decorating the houses. From hand-
made curtains trimmed with lace to the smallest details on a miniature 
reproduction of a Sears catalog, no detail has been overlooked. 
Victorian, Gothic, Colonial and Tudor styles, as well as some cottages, 
a gazebo, and even a brick outhouse, Otello and Carolyn's collection is 
truly impressive.
  Intricate detail, unparalleled patience, love and care--
characteristics similar to the traditional ingredients thought to be 
included in marriage--have gone into each of the delicate reproductions 
of Faberge Eggs that decorate the Massoni's home. This remarkable hobby 
has drawn much attention to Otello and Carolyn's creative talents. With 
each taking on a different task, they are not only creating beautiful 
ornaments, but cherished memories. Featured in local newspapers on a 
variety of occasions, Otello and Carolyn's work has sparked the 
imaginations of many in area communities.
  In addition to their creative hobbies, Otello and Carolyn have always 
been active in the Wallingford political arena. Their outstanding work 
with the Democratic Town Committee has benefitted many local elected 
officials, including myself. Their tireless efforts have gone a long 
way in bringing a strong voice to local residents and their interests.
  Enjoying their retirement years together, Otello and Carolyn have 
found what may be the key to a successful marriage--teamwork. Whether 
with their hobbies or in the community, it is a rare moment not to see 
these two working together. It is with great pride that I rise today to 
join family and friends in congratulating my dear friends Otello and 
Carolyn Massoni as they celebrate their 50th Anniversary. My very best 
wishes to them for many more years of health and happiness.

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