House Republican Press Release

June 11, 2008

Press Office: 860-240-8700

Klarides Attends Belden Clinic Dedication

DERBY – Deputy House Republican Leader Themis Klarides (R-114) attended the dedication of the new Richard O. Belden Dental Clinic in Derby yesterday held at the Club Ballroom.  The clinic was named for the late Richard O. Belden who represented Shelton as a member of the Connecticut General Assembly from 1975 until his sudden passing in August of 2007 at the age of 73.  It is located on Elizabeth Street in Derby.

Belden had been the longest serving member of the State House of Representatives, and held the title “Dean of the House.”  The $1.2 million project which was constructed with $900,000 in state funds will be a model in providing affordable dental services to the community.  Belden worked a number of years to get the project done, both as a legislator and a member of the Valley Dental Advisory Council.

Others who attended the ceremony included Belden’s widow Bert, Lieutenant Governor Michael Fedele, State Comptroller Nancy Wyman, State Senator Joe Crisco (D-17), Rep. Larry Miller (R-Stratford) and Rep. Jason Perillo (R-Shelton) who now holds Belden’s former seat.

“Dick’s legacy is not because he was a state representative, but why he was a state representative,” said Klarides to the group assembled. “He knew the need and he went at it with everything.”

Klarides noted that she would treasure the years she spent in the House of Representatives with Belden, whom she viewed as a mentor.  “Dick Belden was the best example of what public service should be; a selfless advocate for the people he represented.  I think it is fitting to put Dick’s name on this clinic which will provide invaluable service for the region for years to come.”