[Congressional Record Volume 145, Number 52 (Thursday, April 15, 1999)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E680]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




 IN HONOR OF RENAMING THE WADE PARK VA MEDICAL CENTER FOR LOUIS STOKES

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                        HON. DENNIS J. KUCINICH

                                of ohio

                    in the house of representatives

                        Thursday, April 15, 1999

  Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the renaming of 
the Cleveland VA Medical Center to the Louis Stokes Cleveland 
Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center and the dedication of the 
new parking garage.
  Louis Stokes is not only a military veteran of World War II, but he 
is also a veteran of nearly two decades of public service to the people 
of Cleveland in the House of Representatives, and a maker of history. 
During his time in Congress, he was considered the dean of the Ohio 
Congressional Delegation.
  Louis Stokes was the first African-American from Ohio to win a seat 
in Congress on November 6, 1968. He has impressed all who have known 
and worked with him with his commitment, erudition and patience. He has 
been a political mentor to me, and I have known and appreciated his 
abiding loyalty, good advice and friendship for many years.
  Louis Stokes is also widely respected for his broad knowledge of 
veterans affairs and health issues. It is very fitting, therefore, that 
the Cleveland VA Medical Center be renamed the Louis Stokes Cleveland 
Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center.
  My fellow colleagues, please join me in congratulating our former 
colleague, Louis Stokes, as he accepts this great honor.

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