[Congressional Record Volume 157, Number 19 (Tuesday, February 8, 2011)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E157]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




      HONORING WILLIAM L. BLANCKENBURG OF NAPA COUNTY, CALIFORNIA

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. MIKE THOMPSON

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                       Tuesday, February 8, 2011

  Mr. THOMPSON of California. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize 
Judge William Blanckenburg, a great leader in the community of Napa 
Valley. Judge Blanckenburg is being honored by the Napa Valley College 
Foundation with their ``Spirit of Napa Valley College Award'' for his 
many contributions to higher education in Napa County.
  Judge Blanckenburg is being recognized this evening for being one of 
the founding fathers of the Napa Valley College Foundation. He served 
as its first President and as a member of the board of directors for 33 
years. His vision and leadership was essential in growing the 
foundation--today it boasts assets of over $5 million. He has also made 
personal financial contributions to the college by establishing several 
endowment funds to support the library, student scholarships and 
college programs.
  Bill is one of Napa Valley's most accomplished citizens. He is a 
retired Napa County Judge who served for 22 years on the bench. He 
received his B.A. in History from UC Berkeley as well as a JD from 
Boalt Hall of Law. He was admitted to the State Bar of California in 
1939, establishing a law practice in Napa from 1941 to 1957. Bill's 
career as an attorney was interrupted by his service with the United 
States Army in World War II. Judge Blanckenburg was a combat 
infantryman with the 3rd division at Anzio and was later commissioned 
in the Judge Advocate General Corps Reserve.
  Judge Blanckenburg's catalog of community involvement and 
achievements is far too prolific to list here. He is a past President 
of the Rotary Club of Napa as well as the Napa Chamber of Commerce and 
the Napa County Bar Association. He is also a lifetime member of the 
Ridgeview PTA and a Member of the UC Berkeley Alumni Council, among 
many other boards and commissions.
  Mr. Speaker and colleagues, it is my distinct pleasure to recognize 
Bill Blanckenburg for his many years of service. He has been a model 
citizen and leader in the Napa Valley and his presence has enriched the 
lives of everyone in our community. I join his entire family in 
thanking Bill for a distinguished lifetime of service and wishing him 
continued success and fulfillment.

                          ____________________