[Congressional Record Volume 145, Number 151 (Monday, November 1, 1999)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E2228]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                        IN HONOR OF JIM CRAVENS

                                 ______
                                 

                        HON. DENNIS J. KUCINICH

                                of ohio

                    in the house of representatives

                        Monday, November 1, 1999

  Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Jim W. Cravens as he 
is honored as Veteran of the Year by the Lincoln Post No. 13 Polish 
Legion of American Veterans for his outstanding service and dedication.
  Jim Cravens began his career of service in the Air Force in February 
of 1959 as a draftsman and served until 1961. During his retirement he 
joined the Local Junior Chamber of Commerce and pursued his lifelong 
hobby of derby racing by working with the local youth in building 
racers. His youthful enthusiasm has truly been inspiring to everyone he 
has encountered.
  In 1963, Jim Cravens began his work with the Cleveland Board of 
Education in the Architectural Department. Later, because of his 
community and political involvement, he was elected president of his 
neighborhood group and the Local War Democratic Club. In 1979 he was 
elected to the Cleveland City Council and in 1982 Jim Cravens started 
his work with the Cuyahoga County Board of Elections.
  Jim Craven's participation with the Polish Legion of American 
Veterans began in 1992 when he was a social member, then was later 
asked to take the position of 2nd and 1st Commander and now he holds 
the position of commander. As commander, Jim Cravens has worked hard to 
pay off old death benefits, improve the post both inside and out, and 
put it back on sound financial ground while taking care of other 
duties. In addition to his service to the Polish-American veterans, Jim 
was a member of the Polish Americans Inc, the Polish American Congress, 
the Amateur Athletic Union USA, and is still serving as ward leader of 
Cleveland Ward 12 as well as vice president of the Merchant Guild of 
the Slavic Village.
  My fellow distinguished colleagues, please join me in honoring Jim W. 
Cravens as he is honored by the Polish Legion of American Veterans as 
Veteran of the Year.

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