[Congressional Record Volume 152, Number 56 (Wednesday, May 10, 2006)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E777-E778]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




             IN HONOR AND REMEMBRANCE OF MIKE ZAPPONE, SR.

                                 ______
                                 

                        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 
Mike Zappone, Sr., beloved husband, father, successful restaurateur and 
friend. Mr. Zappone, Senior leaves behind a legacy that reflects his 
joy for

[[Page E778]]

life, love for his family and dedication to his community.
  Mr. Zappone was born and raised in Cleveland, OH. He learned early on 
the lessons of family unity, hard work and team work, as his father 
died at a young age, leaving his mother with a large family to raise. 
Shortly after graduating from John Marshall High School, Mr. Zappone 
joined his older brother, Tony Zappone, in the restaurant business.
  Tony Zappone operated Tony's Diner for nearly 30 years, until his 
death in 1977. Mike Zappone opened his first restaurant in Kamms 
Corners in the 1950s, then in 1962, he opened up the Original 13 
Colonies restaurant, located in the Holiday Inn on Brookpark Road. Mr. 
Zappone took over Tony's Diner when his brother passed away, and later 
opened up the highly popular Mr. Z's.
  For decades, both brothers were successfully involved in the 
ownership and operation of nearly 20 local and out-of-State 
restaurants. Their signature establishments were Tony's Diner and Mr. 
Z's, cultural landmarks that provided a welcoming atmosphere where 
anyone could enjoy a great meal and lively conversation. Both Tony's 
Diner and Mr. Z's frequently set the stage for people from all walks of 
life--from politicians to steelworkers, to business owners and every 
profession in between, to discover and debate the neighborhood news of 
the day.
  Mr. Speaker and colleagues, please join me in honor, remembrance and 
gratitude of my dear friend, Mike Zappone, Sr., whose kindness, 
integrity and goodwill defined his character and framed his life. I 
offer my condolences to his wife Jeanne; his sons, Michael, Junior and 
John; his four grandchildren; and his extended family and friends. His 
friendly smile, joyful spirit and kind heart will live on within the 
hearts of his family, friends and every patron, young and old, whose 
day was made brighter while gathered at the table of Tony's Diner or 
Mr. Z's, including my own.

                          ____________________