[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 146 (2000), Part 10]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page 13848]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]



                         IN HONOR OF JOHN BACO

                                 ______
                                 

                        HON. DENNIS J. KUCINICH

                                of ohio

                    in the house of representatives

                         Tuesday, July 11, 2000

  Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in tribute to John Baco, 
pitcher for the baseball team at St. Ignatius High School in Ohio. John 
has been selected by the Cleveland Plain Dealer as a member of their 
All-Star baseball team for the Spring 2000 season.
  John has demonstrated exceptional athletic ability and tremendous 
commitment to his sporting activities. As pitcher of the St. Ignatius 
Wildcats, this gritty senior right-hander is the model of composure. In 
compiling a 9-0 record with posted victories in the sectional finals, 
district finals, regional semifinals and state semifinals, John was a 
part of a St. Ignatius team that made history by advancing to the 
school's first state championship baseball game. In a complete-game, 
eight-inning effort against perennial power Cincinnati Moeller in the 
state semifinals, he stuck out 14, four shy of the big-school Final 
Four record. These impressive records mirror John's commitment to 
responsibility. His strong faith and belief in her abilities has 
enabled her to become one of the finest athletes in northern Ohio.
  Recognition by the Cleveland Plain Dealer of John's accomplishments 
is an amazing honor because it acknowledges the hours of sacrifice and 
patience needed to cultivate stamina and perseverance, as well as 
excellence in teamwork and cooperation. More importantly, I am inspired 
by his motivation, poise, and good sportsmanship on and off the playing 
field. Knowing that he tried his best is more important than actually 
winning. Clearly, he is the quintessential model of grace under 
pressure. I am impressed by such optimism and devotion. He is truly 
remarkable. I know that John has much to offer. I look forward to 
offering more congratulations to this promising athlete in the future.
  My fellow colleagues, John Baco is an outstanding and inspirational 
individual. Please join me in honoring his notable accomplishments and 
achievements in baseball.

                          ____________________