[Congressional Record Volume 151, Number 22 (Wednesday, March 2, 2005)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E337]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                        IN HONOR OF CARL KOCINA

                                 ______
                                 

                        HON. DENNIS J. KUCINICH

                                of ohio

                    in the house of representatives

                        Wednesday, March 2, 2005

  Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in honor of Carl Kocina of 
Parma, Ohio, as we commemorate his February 20th birthday--one hundred 
years young--and still bowling strikes.
  Mr. Kocina was born in Trieste, Austria, and arrived at Ellis Island 
as a young boy of seven. His family settled in Cleveland, and though 
far from their homeland, they kept alive the musical and cultural 
traditions of their beloved Austria. He taught himself to play the 
accordion, and with his brothers, formed the Kocina Trio. The Trio 
played for many years at social and family events.
  Mr. Kocina was instilled with a strong work ethic--a philosophy that 
he maintains to this day. At 15, he started work in a local factory, 
and retired fifty years later as a supervisor of a plant that 
manufactured aircraft parts. Today, his active lifestyle reflects deep 
joy and energy, both on and off the bowling lanes. Mr. Kocina lives 
independently, and hones his culinary talents on a regular basis. He is 
surrounded by family and friends, especially his daughter, Florence 
Husbeck, granddaughter, Linda Butler, and great-grandson, Grant Butler.
  Mr. Speaker and colleagues, please join me in honor and recognition 
of Mr. Carl Kocina, as we celebrate his 100th birthday. Mr. Kocina 
continues to be an inspiration to everyone in his life--especially his 
family and friends. His energy, agility and joy for living serve to 
highlight the philosophy that life's possibilities and joys are within 
reach for every one of us, regardless of our chronological age. We wish 
him many blessings of continued health and happiness today, tomorrow, 
and for all days to come.

                          ____________________