[Congressional Record Volume 144, Number 154 (Friday, December 18, 1998)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E2345]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                COMMUNITY SERVICE LEADER CYNTHIA ECKHART

                                 ______
                                 

                        HON. ILEANA ROS-LEHTINEN

                               of florida

                    in the house of representatives

                       Friday, December 18, 1998

  Ms. ROS-LEHTINEN. Mr. Speaker, I would like to pay a tribute to an 
outstanding citizen; a leader who places others before herself and a 
fine lady who has dedicated her life to community service and to 
improving the lives of others, Ms. Cynthia Eckhart.
  For the past eight years, Cynthia has expressed and demonstrated 
genuine concern for various social issues affecting South Florida and 
has committed herself to improving the quality of life for many South 
Floridians. Although her presence is not always highly visible, her 
efforts for the Miami community are strongly felt. Cynthia has devoted 
herself to raising funds for charities such as improving the health 
care for our community, where she has assisted in the allocation of 
funds for leukemia and various cancer research. She has had the grand 
opportunity to serve as the Chair of a school's auction, where she was 
able to raise $87,000 to provide quality, private school tuition for 
many of South Florida's underprivileged and less fortunate children.
  On November 6th, 1998, I was privileged to speak at the 45th annual 
gala for Beaux Arts of the Lowe Art Museum at The University of Miami. 
There I witnessed first-hand Cynthia's dedication and contributions to 
our community. The wonderfully conducted gala that Cynthia organized 
raised generous funds to provide permanent acquisitions for the Lowe 
Art Museum. As Chairman of this gala, Cynthia raised an additional 
charitable amount to be used to fund visits to the museum and 
educational art programs for children of low-income families. It is 
Cynthia's unselfish and loving nature that has enabled many 
underprivileged youth to be introduced and encouraged in pursuing 
culture in the world of the arts.
  Cynthia's involvement in our community is exemplary of a committed 
and concerned individual who seeks to extend a helping hand to those in 
need. In giving much of her time, her energy and herself, Cynthia 
continues to be a true leader, an inspiration to many, and an example 
to all. South Florida is grateful and proud of her many accomplishments 
and service to our community. We wish her the very best for continued 
success!

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