[Congressional Record Volume 149, Number 2 (Wednesday, January 8, 2003)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E41]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                    TRIBUTE TO MAJOR CLARK THOMPSON

                                 ______
                                 

                        HON. PETER J. VISCLOSKY

                               of indiana

                    in the house of representatives

                       Wednesday, January 8, 2003

  Mr. VISCLOSKY. Mr. Speaker it is my distinct honor to commend one of 
Northern California's most distinguished citizens and a great friend of 
mine, Mayor Clark Thompson of Petaluma, California. He has served the 
people of Petaluma for 25 years, culminating over the last 4 years with 
his service as Mayor of that fine city. His leadership and pursuit of 
excellence will be sorely missed as he steps down from a career of 
public service.
  A longtime resident of Petaluma, Mayor Clark Thompson began his 
career in public service by serving the city on the Parking and 
Business Improvement Area Committee. From there, he served on the 
Committee to study and initiate bicycle paths and access, as a member 
of the Petaluma Valley Hospital Foundation Board, and as a member of 
the Petaluma Rotary Club and Chamber of Commerce Board. He is still a 
lifetime member of the Casa Grande Boosters Club.
  At a time when his beloved city faced many challenges Mayor Thompson 
brought a broad vision to lead the citizens of Petaluma into the 
future. His determination is unwavering; his pride in his city is 
unequaled. I have had the pleasure to work with Mayor Thompson on a 
professional level, and witnessed his abilities as a leader when he 
solved Petaluma's long standing flood control issues. He has the 
uncommon ability to work with people of different beliefs in order to 
do what is right. The city of Petaluma and its people have benefited 
greatly from Clark Thompson's years as a public servant.
  Although he has been a devoted public servant, Mr. Thompson has 
always held his family as a to priority. He and his wife, Sue Ellen, 
originally settled in the community of Petaluma to raise their two 
daughters, Molly and Abigail. Clark's retirement will allow him to 
spend more time with his family, something he will greatly cherish.
  Mr. Speaker, I ask that you and my other distinguished colleagues 
join me in congratulating Mayor Clark Thompson on his retirement after 
25 years of diligent service to the city of Petaluma, California. Clark 
has been a valuable member of the community for which he cares so 
deeply, and his service will be greatly missed. I wish him the best of 
luck in future endeavors, and I know he will enjoy his retirement for 
many years to come.

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