[Congressional Record Volume 141, Number 159 (Friday, October 13, 1995)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E1944-E1945]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




               UPHOLDING THE AMERICAN DREAM IN CLEVELAND

                                 ______


                          HON. MARTIN R. HOKE

                                of ohio

                    in the house of representatives

                        Friday, October 13, 1995

  Mr. HOKE. Mr. Speaker, I want to take a few minutes out of our hectic 
legislative schedule to congratulate several families in my district 
that are overcoming the odds and making their dreams come true. I also 
want to salute the Cleveland Housing Network, which helped make those 
dreams a reality.
  For 13 years the Cleveland Housing Network [CHN] has been helping 
Clevelanders buy their own homes. The network's lease-purchase program 
is especially noteworthy since it offers stable, decent, and affordable 
housing--with the ultimate goal of homeownership--to families currently 
living in poverty. And it is widely recognized that homeownership 
stabilizes neighborhoods and unites 

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communities. I am personally gratified to have assisted in the crafting 
and passage of the Federal tax law which created the economic 
foundation of CHN's program.
  Those being recognized today are truly impressive--impressive as 
individuals and impressive as families. They have made a commitment to 
themselves and their children that whatever winds may blow, their 
families will be well-grounded.
  For decades, the dream of owning one's own home has inspired millions 
of Americans to work hard, plan and save for the future, and become 
active and committed citizens. When I think of a home several things 
come to mind: A place of shelter, a place of love, and a place of 
sanctuary from the turbulent world outside. Gathering with friends and 
family over a good meal or a good movie, home is truly where the heart 
is.
  Today, several families in my district are being recognized for their 
commitment to these ideals. And I know that with this commitment comes 
certain responsibilities. Requirements to attend numerous homeownership 
training workshops, to learn how to maintain property, and to become 
financially self-sufficient have encouraged each of these families to 
take personal responsibility for their futures. These sacrifices will 
pay off and one day, in the not so distant future, they will be the 
proud owners of a piece of the American dream. To these families I say, 
may God bless you as you strive to make your house a home.

                          ____________________