[Congressional Record Volume 146, Number 20 (Tuesday, February 29, 2000)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E189]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                 TRIBUTE TO THE LATE PATRICIA HILLIGOSS

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. LYNN C. WOOLSEY

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                       Tuesday, February 29, 2000

  Ms. WOOLSEY. Mr. Speaker, I am here today to pay tribute to the 
Honorable Patricia Hilligoss, a community leader, who after years of 
fighting for Petaluma, California, recently lost her battle with Lou 
Gehrig's disease.
  It's hard to think of Petaluma without thinking ``Madam Mayor,'' as 
Patty was called.
  During my eight years as Petaluma City Councilwoman working with 
Madam Mayor, I came to respect her hard work on behalf of our city. 
Even when we didn't see eye to eye, I knew that Patty was doing what 
she thought was right and what she considered best for the city.
  Two of her legacies to our city include affordable housing for 
seniors and an award-winning general plan. These will continue to make 
a difference for Petaluma well into the future.
  For 12 years, Madam Mayor pounded the gavel at City Council meetings 
and made numerous trips to Sacramento and Washington to advocate on 
behalf of our city.
  Outside Council Chambers, Madam Mayor continued her advocacy for the 
residents of Petaluma. She was active with the Petaluma Valley Hospital 
Foundation, Boys and Girls Club, Committee on the Shelterless, and the 
Petaluma Visitors Bureau.
  Whenever there was an event in Petaluma, you knew Madam Mayor was 
part of it. From parades to ribbon cuttings to Eagle Scout ceremonies, 
Patty Hilligoss was a part of Petaluma's life.
  She may be gone, but her work for the residents of Petaluma will 
survive for many years to come.
  You will be missed, Madam Mayor.

                          ____________________