Wayne Gilchrest: “Mr. Speaker, H.R. 4133 is a bill which would designate the United States Courthouse in Cleveland, Ohio as the Carl B.…”

“Mr. Speaker, H.R. 4133 is a bill which would designate the United States Courthouse in Cleveland, Ohio as the Carl B. Stokes United States Courthouse. In 1962, Carl Stokes began a life devoted to public service upon his election to the Ohio General Assembly. Five years later, Carl Stokes broke new ground when he won Cleveland's mayoral race becoming the first African-American to be elected the mayor of a major city. Deciding not to seek reelection in 1971, Carl Stokes entered the field of journalism with WNBC-TV in New York City. For his work at WNBC, he received an Emmy Award. In 1983, Carl Stokes returned to Cleveland where he won election to Cleveland's municipal court. Within weeks, he was elected both presiding and administrative judge. After serving on the bench for 10 years, Carl Stokes assumed the position of chief statesman when in 1994 President Clinton appointed him the Ambassador to the African Island Republic of Seychelles. Carl Stokes passed away on April 3, 1996. This is a fitting tribute to a man who dedicate so much of his life to public service. I support this bill and urge my colleague's support.”