[Congressional Record Volume 152, Number 56 (Wednesday, May 10, 2006)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E774]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                      IN HONOR OF CHARLOTTE CREWS

                                 ______
                                 

                        HON. DENNIS J. KUCINICH

                                of ohio

                    in the house of representatives

                        Wednesday, May 10, 2006

  Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in honor and recognition of 
Charlotte Crews, upon her retirement as center director of the Barton 
Center of Lakewood, whose dedication and devotion to the residents of 
the Barton Center has brought joy and energy to their lives for more 
than two decades.
  Mrs. Crews began volunteering at the Barton Center nearly 21 years 
ago. Though busy with family and her own job at a local insurance 
company, Mrs. Crews made time to prepare meals, and she also utilized 
her creative theatrical talent and experience by writing and directing 
countless performances and shows at the center. Her husband, Curt, was 
program director at the time, and she also volunteered as his 
assistant. In 1995, she was offered the position of center director. As 
center director for 11 years, Mrs. Crews went above and beyond the 
usual call of duty. Her care and compassion for the elderly and 
disabled residents of the center was equally matched by her energetic 
drive and dedication that focused on enriching their lives.
  Mrs. Crews worked overtime to cook dinner for more than 100 people 
for the monthly dinner show. She set the menu, shopped, cooked and 
served the food. She also continued to channel her talents by writing, 
producing and directing the annual staff show. Additionally, she 
created a small grocery called the Corner Store, located in the 
building, for residents unable to leave the center. Mrs. Crews added a 
computer to the center, created several new programs for residents, and 
initiated a successful fundraising plan, known as the Annual Campaign. 
Moreover, Mrs. Crews' approachable demeanor and great sense of humor 
easily drew others to her, and her presence brightened the spirits of 
residents, staff and volunteers.
  Mr. Speaker and colleagues, please join me in honor, recognition and 
gratitude to Charlotte Crews, for her unwavering dedication, generous 
heart, expansive talent and true sense of giving that has framed her 
presence at the Barton Center for the past 21 years. Her achievements 
are numerous, yet her most significant accomplishment is the love and 
compassion that she shared with the most frail citizens of our 
society--bringing them joy, great care and hope, and the foundation of 
friendship that Mrs. Crews created has raised the lives of every 
resident at Barton Center, and has strengthened our entire community.

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