Michael Ruddy for Tax Collector

In my original post I neglected to mention a few other very important people in my life. First of all, I’d like mention my beautiful and supportive girlfriend, Kate Nycz. She continues to be the biggest champion of my campaign and has helped me in every aspect. She also helps keep the stars of my billboard on Interstate 81, Lady and Nittany, happy while I spend countless evenings after work knocking on doors. My sister, Shauna Ruddy, is the strongest woman I know (both physically and spiritually) and insisted we get a cake from Henry’s On Clay to celebrate my primary win (it was delicious). And finally, her little buddy, Ralph. A former bait dog that she rescued many years ago who now spends his days snuggling on the couch.

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When I began my campaign for Tax Collector, I decided to knock on as many doors as possible and get to know my fellow Dunmoreans. Besides discussing the duties of the tax collector, I have learned that so many of you are familiar with my extended family. I am honored to hear how so many people have a kind word to say about my loved ones. Many of the voters I have met ask me where in the Ruddy family tree I fall. So here goes!

My father grew up with his 13 siblings on Clay Ave with my paternal grandparents Jimmy and Rose O’Hara Ruddy. If you are unfamiliar with my father, chances are you know one of my aunts or uncles: Jimmy, the eldest, Timmy, and Bobby Ruddy, Cathy Evans, Mary Lynn Ruddy, Ellen Smolkskis, Beth Navoczynski, and Roseanne Ruddy. We all hold Uncle Mark, Billy, Patrick (PJ), and Michael (Mickey) in our hearts as they have since passed away.

My mother, Michele, grew up on West Grove Street with my maternal grandparents Michael Cummings and Beatrice Bortree Cummings. My uncle Michael Cummings is also a lifelong Dunmorean.

I won’t list all my extended family; there are just so many. However, here are some family photos I have found from gatherings over the years.

Thanks to Beth McDonald Zangardi for putting up one of my signs.