[Congressional Record Volume 151, Number 152 (Wednesday, November 16, 2005)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E2370]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]


[[Page E2370]]
           IN HONOR AND REMEMBRANCE OF MAYOR PAUL L. RUGGLES

                                 ______
                                 

                        HON. DENNIS J. KUCINICH

                                of ohio

                    in the house of representatives

                      Wednesday, November 16, 2005

  Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in honor and remembrance of 
Mayor Paul L. Ruggles--devoted husband, father, grandfather, community 
leader, entrepreneur, veteran of the United States Air Force Honor 
Guard and admired friend and mentor.
  A life-long resident of the Village Newburgh Heights, Mayor Ruggles 
served as ``honorary Mayor'' for years before being elected as mayor in 
2003. At his cozy restaurant/bar, the Ruggles Inn, Village residents 
sought out his opinion and advice on issues ranging from speeding cars 
to the future of economic growth and development for the Village. The 
friendly, welcoming atmosphere of the Ruggles Inn mirrored the 
character of its owner. Regular patrons enjoyed Mayor Ruggles' homemade 
pork chops, city chicken and good conversation. His easy-going 
demeanor, integrity and kind nature easily drew others to him. In just 
a short time in office, Mayor Ruggles forged strong bonds with local, 
county and State leaders, and began the process of renewed economic 
development--all focused on improving the lives of the people of the 
Village.
  Mayor Ruggles was appointed to serve on council in 2000, and was 
elected to serve as Mayor in 2003. He was also an active member of the 
Cuyahoga County Democratic Party. Humble yet confident, Mayor Ruggles 
restored a certain grace and dignity to the Village Hall. His efforts 
on behalf of the Village ran the spectrum from major economic growth 
initiatives focused on bringing new industry into the Village, to 
hiring a new police chief, to restoring Village roads, to settling 
disputes between neighbors. Regardless of the issue, every concern that 
the Villagers brought before him consistently had his full attention, 
concern and commitment.
  Mr. Speaker and Colleagues, please join me in honor, gratitude and 
remembrance of Mayor Paul L. Ruggles. I offer my deepest condolences to 
his wife Judy; to his daughter, Laura; to his son, Paul; to his son-in-
law, Brad; to his daughter-in-law, Jennifer; to his granddaughters, 
Alyssa and Samantha; and to his extended family members and many 
friends. Mayor Ruggles' integrity, generous heart and love for his 
family, friends and for the people of Newburgh Heights will be forever 
remembered along East 49th Street, Harvard Avenue, Washington Park 
Boulevard and miles beyond.

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