Political Quotes

“I rise this morning in recognition of Ofelia Ruder, who will be celebrating her 90th birthday this May. Ofelia Ruder is the executive director of the Cuban Hebrew Congregation, a religious organization in my congressional district that was dedicated to providing a home for Jews coming out of Cuba. Like me and my family and so many others, Mr. Speaker, Ofelia Ruder was forced to flee Castro's brutal tyranny. In 1960, she arrived in the United States, this great land of opportunity, with her husband and two boys. Soon thereafter, sadly, she lost her husband to cancer and was faced with a challenge of raising her two small children by herself. They both eventually became dedicated civil servants working to improve our south Florida community. Mr. Speaker, in the 50 years that Ofelia Ruder has served at the synagogue, she has touched the lives of so many and has been a beacon of hope for all those who know her. Her work has earned her many awards and recognitions for her contributions to our county, to the Cuban Hebrew Congregation, and to Israel. I am very thankful for Ofelia Ruder's service. ``Feliz cumpleanos,'' ``happy birthday,'' Ofelia. Honoring Palmetto Bay Native, Miki Erez”