[Congressional Record Volume 144, Number 134 (Wednesday, September 30, 1998)]
[Senate]
[Page S11186]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




               TRIBUTE TO FLO BRUMER ON HER 90TH BIRTHDAY

 Mr. MOYNIHAN. Mr. President, on November 21, 1998, Mrs. 
Florence Brumer of Utica, New York, will celebrate her 90th birthday. 
She is fortunate to reach this milestone not only in good health and 
high spirits, but in the company of her husband of 64 years, Lou, and 
their two children and four grandchildren, all of their spouses, and 
one great-grandchild.
  A lifelong educator, Mrs. Brumer has touched many lives and been an 
inspiration to those around her. She received a bachelor's degree in 
education from New York University and a master's degree from the 
Teacher's College at Columbia University. She went on to spend over 
forty years as a teacher and curriculum supervisor in the New York City 
school system. When she retired in 1966, she moved upstate to Utica and 
became the city's most ardent promoter. An article in the local 
newspaper several years ago highlighted the Brumers' rave reviews of 
Utica's social and cultural life, which coming from Manhattan natives 
were particularly strong endorsements.
  One of the most remarkable aspects of Flo Brumer's life is her vigor 
and enthusiasm for a wide variety of activities. A cancer survivor, she 
was a pioneer in the crusade against smoking back in the days when 
there was no such thing as a ``smoke-free environment.'' Well into 
retirement, she donned sneakers and began the sport later known as 
``mall-walking.'' She has a great passion for political discussions, 
instilled in her, perhaps, at the table of her uncle, William I. 
Sirovich, who served as a member of the U.S. Congress (D-NY) from 1927-
39. And as a bridge fanatic, she continues to play and win regularly 
while trying to recruit new partners.
  Reaching one's 90th birthday is a notable occasion in and of itself, 
but to do so with such vitality and cheer is a truly great 
accomplishment. I offer her my heartiest congratulations and best 
wishes and close with a particularly apt Irish blessing:

     May joy and peace surround you
     Contentment latch your door,
     And happiness be with you now,
     And bless you evermore.

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