[Congressional Record Volume 143, Number 84 (Tuesday, June 17, 1997)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1223]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                         TRIBUTE TO RUTH BLOCK

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. BRAD SHERMAN

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                         Tuesday, June 17, 1997

  Mr. SHERMAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to Ruth Block, 
an exemplary individual who has selflessly devoted herself to the 
community and tirelessly sought to foster an ecumenical climate of 
understanding. Ruth in being honored by the American Jewish Committee 
with its 1997 Community Service Award and I would like to add my 
accolades for this outstanding citizen.
  The Talmud states that ``Charity knows neither race nor creed,'' and 
Ruth's devotion to working on behalf of the entire community 
illustrates that service to others also recognizes no such boundaries. 
Ruth Block's accomplishments are truly remarkable and these brief 
remarks can hardly hope to fully acknowledge all that she has done for 
the community.
  Ruth Block has selflessly devoted her time and energy to numerous 
causes, including the Rockefeller Foundation, the League of Women 
Voters and has been an active leader of the American Jewish Committee. 
Additionally, Ruth's diligent work to foster understanding extends to 
the international sphere as well. She was awarded the Gold Medal of 
Honor by the Austrian Government and has also been presented with the 
Officer's Cross of the Order of Merit by the German Government for her 
efforts to build bridges of understanding between the German and Jewish 
people.
  What makes Ruth truly amazing is that despite her countless hours of 
community service, she has also found the time to raise a family and 
spend time with her grandchild. I am proud to pay tribute to such an 
outstanding citizen as Ruth Block.

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