Local Politicos React to the Passing of Ben Ali
D.C. Mayor Adrian Fenty just put out his statement reacting to the passing of Ben's Chili Bowl co-founder Ben Ali. More statements we've received today from local politicos are rounded up after the jump.
“I am deeply saddened to hear of the passing of the founder and namesake of Ben’s Chili Bowl, one of the greatest treasures in the District of Columbia. Ben Ali was a man who invested his life in a small business that weathered many storms and became the soul of a neighborhood and the pride of our city. Though we mourn the loss of Mr. Ali, we are grateful that his legacy will live on in our hearts. On behalf of the residents of the District of Columbia, I want to thank the Ali family for sharing Ben with us.” - Mayor Adrian Fenty
“Ben Ali not only established what has become an institution in our town; Ben Ali and his family themselves have become an institution. Ben’s Chili Bowl not only renders a service to the public, but the family is also well-known for its wonderful service to the District of Columbia.” - D.C. Del. Eleanor Holmes Norton
“With the passing of Ben Ali, the owner of Ben’s Chili Bowl, the District of Columbia has lost a well-respected and iconic figure in the shaping of the historic U Street corridor. My condolences and prayers go to his family, employees and friends. Through the riots of the 60’s, and neighborhood transformation, Mr. Ali, his wife and sons have kept Ben’s Chili Bowl a thriving business and community meeting place. So much so, that it caught the attention of even President Barack Obama and the nation during his inauguration. Many D.C. residents have enjoyed a chili dog at the U Street establishment and been greeted by the warm reception of the people behind the counter, which emanated from Ben Ali’s spirit and the way he and his family ran the business. In fact, I am a regular patron. “Mr. Ali truly will be missed by those of us who appreciated the mark he and Ben’s Chili Bowl have left on the U Street corridor and across the District of Columbia.” - D.C. Council Chairman Vincent Gray
“My family was deeply saddened today to learn of the passing of Ben Ali, who was wonderful family friend and true inspiration,” said Councilmember Brown. “Through the best times and the worst times in our city’s history Ben was eternally optimistic. It was fifty-one years ago with the sale of Ben’s first hot dog that a place was created that to this day transcends cultural, racial and political divides. Ben was a civil rights pioneer and the embodiment of entrepreneurial spirit. He leaves behind a legacy we can all be proud of.” - At large D.C. Council member Kwame Brown
Contact the author of this article or email tips@dcist.com with further questions, comments or tips.