[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 155 (2009), Part 19]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page 25624]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]




     HONORING THE SORGE FAMILY OF SORGE'S RESTAURANT IN CORNING, NY

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                          HON. ERIC J.J. MASSA

                              of new york

                    in the house of representatives

                        Friday, October 23, 2009

  Mr. MASSA. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor a landmark in New 
York's 29th Congressional District and its proprietors, the Sorge 
Family of Sorge's Restaurant. Renato and his brother Remo Sorge came to 
the United States from Italy in 1936 and through hard work and 
determination realized the American Dream.
  On June 5, 1951, Renato and Loretta Sorge opened Sorge's Restaurant 
at 68 W. Market St. in Corning, NY and it quickly became an area 
favorite. From its humble beginnings with a counter and 11 booths, the 
restaurant eventually grew, and expanded to the adjacent building and a 
seating capacity of 225 persons. Offering quality food and a welcoming 
atmosphere, it is easy to see how the restaurant became a Corning 
institution.
  A true family business, Renato's sons, Joseph and Michael, followed 
in their parents' footsteps working in the restaurant part-time while 
growing up. They both eventually pursued restaurant management degrees 
at Cornell and SUNY Cobleskill, respectfully. Upon graduation, Joseph 
and Michael returned to Corning to carry on the Sorge Family tradition 
of providing the finest Italian/American food, and quality service at 
reasonable prices.
  An unfortunate fire in December 2008 burned the original Sorge 
Restaurant; yet, this setback has not dampened the Sorge's spirits. 
Instead it serves as a testament to the Sorge Family commitment to the 
District as they have chosen to stay and rebuild this community 
institution. The site is now recognized as an historic landmark.
  As friends and family gather in Corning today to celebrate a new 
beginning at 68 W. Market St., it is my honor to recognize the Sorge 
Family and Sorge's Restaurant on behalf of the United States Congress.

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