The Scene
That afternoon, over 100 Tent residents, along with representatives from Maloney Properties
and Longwood Security, including Jack Connelly, President of Longwood, gathered to say farewell and thank Officer Ruiz for a job exceptionally well done. During his “until I see you again party” as Officer Ruiz called it, he could not bring himself to say goodbye to the many people he had built relationships with while the serving the folks of Tent City. Person after person stood up, and with shaking voices and tears in their eyes, thanked and praised the man one person proclaimed “the only man I’ve never heard say a negative word….never!”Officer Ruiz, in his kind and gentle way, thanked all of the residents, not only for the sentiments shown this day but for their kindness and friendship over the years. Officer Ruiz said that, if it was not for his family obligations, he would never leave and wished he could continue to work for Longwood Security and Tent City “until my last day on earth.”
Our Most Valuable Asset
As dozens of people spoke, the same theme continued to emerge with each heartfelt speech. What made Officer Ruiz special was his kindness, his caring and his dedication to his job and the people he served. He was genuine and truly loved his work.
“In my 20 plus years in the Security field, I have attended many farewell parties, but in all that time I have never experienced such a display of affection and thanks. Longwood Security’s log contains our tag line “We make a Difference …Everyday.” Officer Luis Ruiz was the living embodiment of that statement, and I have no doubt wherever life takes him he will continue to make a difference in the lives of everyone he meets!" said Jeff Edimnston, Senior Vice President of Operations.
Thank you Luis, we wish you the best, and until we see you again...