[Congressional Record Volume 156, Number 22 (Monday, February 22, 2010)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E187]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                 IN HONOR AND REMEMBRANCE OF DON SCOTT

                                 ______
                                 

                        HON. DENNIS J. KUCINICH

                                of ohio

                    in the house of representatives

                       Monday, February 22, 2010

  Mr. KUCINICH. Madam Speaker, I rise today in honor of Don Scott, a 
beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother and friend. Mr. Scott's 
life was centered around family, community and service to others. His 
keen business sense, positive attitude, and unstoppable energy were key 
elements of his success.
  Throughout Cleveland, Mr. Scott was known for his gathering place 
called ``Vel's''--the premier party center for the African-American 
community named after his beloved wife, Velma Rose. African-American 
city leaders, politicians and candidates met regularly at Vel's, where 
Mr. Scott always greeted guests with kind and encouraging words. He 
hosted major political events, giving many candidates the exposure and 
support they needed to rally voters and win elections, including former 
United States Congressman Louis Stokes.
  In 1963, Don and Velma purchased the Alhambra Bowling Lanes near 
Euclid and East 102nd Street, and changed the name to University Lanes. 
They opened Vel's Red Carpet Lounge in the basement, and it soon became 
a popular venue that drew nationally known performers. Mr. Scott became 
the first African-American contestant on the popular national TV series 
``Championship Bowling.'' He won his first match in 1961 by bowling 
five strikes in a row and went on to tour with the Professional Bowling 
Association. In 1962, Mr. Scott won the first round of the PBA Open and 
ended the tournament by placing ninth in the nation.
  Mr. Scott was first and foremost dedicated to his wife and children. 
Together, Don and Velma Scott raised their children, Gregory, Avis and 
Don D. In later years, Don and Velma travelled the world but remained 
committed to the betterment of their eastside community. They founded 
Vel's Purple Oasis Garden, a community garden and greenhouse near 
University Circle. They also opened ``New Life Skills Academy,'' a 
training center for future entrepreneurs.
  Madam Speaker and colleagues, please join me in honor of Don Scott, a 
man who will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved him. I also 
honor the memory of his beloved wife, the late Velma Rose. I offer my 
deepest condolences to his children, Gregory, Avis and Don D., to his 
six grandchildren, his six siblings, and to his extended family and 
friends. Mr. Scott lived his life with a generous heart and an 
unwavering love for his family and his community. He will never be 
forgotten.

                          ____________________