[Congressional Record Volume 151, Number 42 (Tuesday, April 12, 2005)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E606]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




               IN HONOR AND REMEMBRANCE OF TOM BRAZAITIS

                                 ______
                                 

                        HON. DENNIS J. KUCINICH

                                of ohio

                    in the house of representatives

                        Tuesday, April 12, 2005

  Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in honor and remembrance of 
Mr. Tom Brazaitis, dedicated husband, father, author, and friend, whose 
brilliant legacy as a journalist and humanitarian has served to elevate 
the lives of all who knew him well, including my own.
  For more than thirty-two years, Mr. Brazaitis' poignant commentary 
and piercing assessment of our nation's political and social scene 
graced the pages of Ohio's largest newspaper, the Cleveland Plain 
Dealer. His compassion, deep intellect and consistent ability to glean 
the heart of a story and have it ready under deadline amazed his 
colleagues. He was known for his quick wit, compassionate heart, 
progressive mindset and his seemingly effortless ability to stay calm 
and cool amidst the fiery pressure of the busy newsroom. Mr. Brazaitis' 
compelling editorials consistently garnered strong responses from his 
readers, both pro and con. Yet his integrity was unwavering and he 
never compromised his personal convictions or viewpoints, regardless of 
popular opinion. Mr. Brazaitis was highly trusted, respected and 
admired by his colleagues and those of us in the political arena. 
Whether interviewing a small town council member or having dinner with 
a powerful publisher, Mr. Brazaitis treated everyone with the same 
respect, dignity and kindness. He built strong bonds with the public, 
strengthened by integrity and trust, and gave Greater Clevelanders an 
insightful and balanced perspective into the local and national 
political scene.
  Mr. Brazaitis' courage and grace was reflected throughout his battle 
with cancer, a battle that he openly shared with his readers. From his 
initial diagnosis, through every standard and experimental treatment, 
Mr. Brazaitis' straightforward descriptions of his cancer experience 
deeply connected with his readers, offering us a sense of peace, 
clarity and even humor throughout his heroic struggle.
  Mr. Speaker and Colleagues, please join me in honor and remembrance 
of Mr. Tom Brazaitis, whose life and legacy served to bring critical 
issues into the rational light of day, and whose deep sense of humanity 
served to elevate our own humanity. I offer my deepest condolences to 
his wife, Eleanor; his daughter, Sarah; son, Mark; stepsons, Edward, 
Woodbury and Robert; and his five grandchildren. Tom Brazaitis lived 
his life with energy and joy, and the memories of his affable nature 
and kind heart will forever light the hearts of all who knew and loved 
him well.

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