[Congressional Record Volume 166, Number 141 (Friday, August 7, 2020)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E733]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




         CELEBRATING THE LIFE AND LEGACY OF JOHN W. RUFFIN, JR.

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                         HON. ALCEE L. HASTINGS

                               of florida

                    in the house of representatives

                         Friday, August 7, 2020

  Mr. HASTINGS. Madam Speaker, I rise today to celebrate the life and 
legacy of my dear friend and fraternity brother, John W. Ruffin, Jr. 
John was a natural born leader who understood the importance of 
education and his duty to give back to the community. He passed away 
peacefully on Friday, July 24, 2020, surrounded by his loving family.
  John first moved to South Florida in 1980 as an executive with Food 
Fair/Pantry Pride, Inc. His entrepreneurial spirit always drove him to 
start his own businesses. He made this dream a reality when, in 1986, 
he and his business partner purchased WRBD, establishing the first 
black-owned radio station in South Florida. John and his wife, Dottie, 
fanned a partnership with a travel retailer and to this day operate 
shops throughout Florida, while also providing consultation services to 
new businesses.
  As a philanthropist, John tirelessly advocated for a number of 
community and civic groups. As Chairman of the United Negro College 
Fund, he helped raise more than two million dollars in scholarships for 
Broward County students. He also served as the Chairman of the Urban 
League of Broward County, and Vice Chairman of the Board of Trustees at 
Florida Memorial University. As Chairman and Board Member of the 
Internet Coast Initiative Council he helped to provide high tech access 
to underserved communities in South Florida. John's dedication to 
helping those less fortunate is inspiring and his presence in South 
Florida will be missed.
  Madam Speaker, John always gave back to the community, earning him 
numerous awards. He truly was selfless and determined to make a 
difference in the lives he touched. I extend my heartfelt condolences 
to John's family and friends, during this extremely sad time. John's 
legacy and loving memory will always live on. He will be dearly missed.

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