[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 146 (2000), Part 16]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page 23702]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]



                       IN HONOR OF MARCUS STEELE

                                 ______
                                 

                        HON. DENNIS J. KUCINICH

                                of ohio

                    in the house of representatives

                      Wednesday, October 18, 2000

  Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, today I honor the memory of Mr. Marcus 
Steele, a sophomore at Cleveland Central Catholic High School who died 
tragically on October 13, 2000 during a football game against Trinity.
  It is always devastating to hear stories about the untimely deaths of 
young people, but it is even more difficult when the tragedy strikes 
close to home. There is a void in the hearts of many in the city of 
Cleveland today, as we say good-bye to this loved and respected young 
man. Marcus didn't knowingly put himself into harms way; he was simply 
playing the game that he loved. We cannot explain why he was taken from 
us at such a young age, but we must do our best to reflect upon the 
positive ways in which Marcus touched our lives.
  Marcus was a warm, caring individual who was genuinely admired by all 
those around him. His classmates and teammates describe him as open, 
motivated, jovial and popular. Marcus will be remembered most for his 
catching smile and his dedication to and appreciation for his family 
and friends. Also, as a linebacker and running back on the football 
team and as a key member of the basketball team, Marcus's wealth of 
athletic talent will certainly be missed on the playing fields at 
Cleveland Central Catholic. In characterizing him as an athlete, 
football coach Paul Cunningham said, ``Marcus never held anything back 
in practice, and he played the game that way too. He was a hard-nosed 
kid with a real future in this sport. You don't replace him. Marcus was 
one of a kind.''
  Mr. Speaker, it is with a heavy heart that I ask my fellow colleagues 
in the House of Representatives to join me today in remembering Marcus 
Steele. He was a fine young man who will surely be missed by all who 
knew him. I also wish to take this opportunity to extend my sincere 
condolences and sympathy to his family and friends and the staff, 
classmates, coaches and teammates of Marcus Steele at Cleveland Central 
Catholic High School. May you find the faith and strength to carry you 
through this difficult time.

                          ____________________