Benarroch Receives Surprise Visit

There aren’t too many secrets that Al Benarroch can keep from his wife and political activist, Yvette. “I can’t tell you how nervous I was to receive a call from U.S. Congressman Mario Diaz-Balart’s office saying he would like to stop by when meeting with others in his District Office to personally present an award to Yvette for her ongoing work here in the state. I knew Yvette was close to the Congressman and had been working on a number of issues with his office,” said Benarroch.

Back on March 30th, Congressman Diaz-Balart had Benarroch’s name read into the Congressional Record in recognition of her lifelong commitment to her nation and to Southwest Florida as part of the celebration of Women’s History Month. This visit was to present a plaque commemorating that honor.

Al Benarroch worked with the Congressman’s office over the last month to surprise his wife with Diaz-Balart’s visit. Family, friends and fellow Republican operatives crushed into the offices of Affordable Landscape Services on Windward Drive before Benarroch’s arrival. Congressman Diaz-Balart concealed his presence behind a wide vertical post at the back of the company’s conference room. 

At about 3:38 PM Benarroch entered the front doors in astonishment when seeing the assembly of family and friends who greeted her. Not until the Congressman made himself visible after his booming voice filled the room did Benarroch realize the extent of the surprise which awaited her.  

Congressman Diaz-Balart further astounded her when he presented the plaque and read its contents. 

Hugs and tears filled the room as an emotional Benarroch thanked her family and friends for this honor.