[Congressional Record Volume 151, Number 130 (Friday, October 7, 2005)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E2049-E2050]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




           IN HONOR AND RECOGNITION OF JON AND KAREN SALERNO

                                 ______
                                 

                        HON. DENNIS J. KUCINICH

                                of ohio

                    in the house of representatives

                        Friday, October 7, 2005

  Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in tribute and recognition of 
Jon and Karen Salerno, united in marriage and united in their 
unwavering dedication to family, faith and community, as they are 
recognized by civic leaders, friends and family for their significant 
contributions to our entire community, including the Italian American 
community. In honor of their volunteerism, the Salerno's have been 
chosen to serve as Grand Marshals of the 2005 Cleveland Columbus Day 
Parade.
  Jon and Karen continue to dedicate their personal time and talents to 
the promotion and preservation of Greater Cleveland's rich Italian 
heritage by numerous community events and programs, including the 
annual Cleveland Columbus Day Parade. Karen has focused her 
professional vocation in working to improve the lives of families and 
individuals who face life-long challenges of living with physical,

[[Page E2050]]

mental and emotional disabilities. Karen has worked with the Summit 
County Board of Mental Retardation and Developmental Disabilities for 
more than 25 years and is currently the Senior Director of Medicaid 
Services. Jon is also an active member with the Summit County Board of 
Mental Retardation. In the 1970s, Jon led the effort to implement new 
legislation that gave mentally challenged citizens the right to vote.
  Jon's interest in public service began in 1971, when he was elected 
to serve as Council Member with the Village of Moreland Hills. Since 
that time, local and national political candidates have sought after 
Jon's political wisdom and insight. Both Karen and Jon continue to 
volunteer their time as active members and leaders of many local civic 
organizations, including many Italian American organizations.
  As president of Media, Italia, Inc., Jon has produced and hosted the 
``Memories from Italy'' radio program for more than 25 years. Fifteen 
years ago, Jon led the effort to organize the first WJCU radio-thon, an 
event that has raised thousands of dollars for the college radio 
station every year. Jon's outreach efforts also extend directly to our 
most vulnerable citizens. He is also the Board Chairman for 
Alternatives Agency, a community-based correctional facility in 
Cleveland that has been recognized for its positive impact on 
individuals making the transition from incarceration to freedom.
  Mr. Speaker and Colleagues, please join me in honor and recognition 
of Jon and Karen Salerno, for their exceptional commitment, leadership 
and service focused on uplifting the citizens and culture within our 
community. Their individual and united efforts within their profession, 
and their volunteer work on behalf of the Italian American community 
and our entire community, continues to enhance our society and gives us 
all hope for a brighter tomorrow. I wish Jon and Karen Salerno, and 
their grown children, Anthony, Jessica and Anthony's wife, Gina, an 
abundance of health, happiness and peace today and always.

                          ____________________