[Congressional Record Volume 152, Number 41 (Tuesday, April 4, 2006)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E511]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                     IN HONOR OF KATHLEEN'S KITCHEN

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                        HON. DENNIS J. KUCINICH

                                of ohio

                    in the house of representatives

                         Tuesday, April 4, 2006

  Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in honor and recognition of 
Kathleen's Kitchen, located in the heart of Cleveland's Westside 
neighborhood, as they are closing their doors on April 1, following a 
twenty-four year run of great food, great service, laughter and lively 
conversation.
  The restaurant, located in Kamm's Corners, is owned by sisters 
Kathleen Verrell, Cindi Condol and Micki Speck. The sisters took over 
the business when their mother, founder Kathleen Finnerty, passed away. 
Mrs. Finnerty opened Kathleen's Kitchen in 1982, and her kind heart and 
generous nature was continued on through her daughters, whose 
collective goodwill consistently extended out into the neighborhood, as 
they offered hot meals or coffee to those in need.
  Kathleen's Kitchen's warm and inviting atmosphere evolved from a 
corner diner into a favorite gathering place for residents, families, 
business owners, and people in all lines of work, from plumbers to 
presidents. President Bill Clinton visited Kathleen's Kitchen several 
times during his presidency. Though customers came from differing 
backgrounds, everyone was connected by a common quest--a familiar place 
to relax, enjoy a great meal, connect with others and capture the 
viewpoints of the day's events.
  Mr. Speaker and Colleagues, please join me in honor and gratitude of 
the owners, staff and customers of Kathleen's Kitchen, whose energy, 
warmth and friendship served as a daily reflection of real life in 
America. Although Kathleen's Kitchen will be missed by countless 
people, including myself, our wonderful time spent there will remain in 
our memories forever.

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