[Congressional Record Volume 152, Number 14 (Wednesday, February 8, 2006)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E99]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                IN HONOR AND REMEMBRANCE OF GEMMA SZABO

                                 ______
                                 

                        HON. DENNIS J. KUCINICH

                                of ohio

                    in the house of representatives

                      Wednesday, February 8, 2006

  Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in honor and remembrance of 
my dear friend, Gemma Szabo of North Olmsted, Ohio--loving mother, 
grandmother, great-grandmother, dedicated community volunteer and 
activist, and dear friend and mentor to many.
  Family, faith and community were central to her life. A united team, 
Mrs. Szabo and her beloved late husband, Charles J. Sr., raised their 
five children: Charles Jr., Gary, Johanna, Tim and Peter, and were a 
consistent source of strength for them, for their grandchildren and for 
their great-grandchildren. For many years, Mrs. Szabo worked as a 
school crossing guard. Aside from her family and work, Mrs. Szabo's 
energy, generous heart and willingness to make a difference led her to 
volunteer her time and talents throughout her community. Spiritual and 
devout, Mrs. Szabo was a long-time member and leader within her parish, 
St. Richard Catholic Church, where she was an active member of the 
Ladies Guild.
  Mrs. Szabo's endless energy, sharp mind and quick wit easily drew 
others to her. A staunch Democrat, Mrs. Szabo was a life-long member of 
the North Olmsted Democratic Club and was a Ward Leader for several 
years. She had the unique ability to inspire and motivate others, 
recruiting numerous friends and neighbors to become involved in the 
election process. Mrs. Szabo forged indelible bonds with civic and 
political leaders that extended from North Olmsted City Hall to 
Cleveland City Hall.
  Mr. Speaker and Colleagues, please join me in honor and remembrance 
of Gemma Szabo. Her unwavering commitment to her family, friends and to 
her community framed her life and served to make a difference within 
the lives of countless individuals, including my own life, and Gemma 
Szabo will be remembered always.

                          ____________________