[Congressional Record Volume 161, Number 17 (Monday, February 2, 2015)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E146]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                 RECOGNIZING ALCALDESSA MARCIE WALDRON

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. MIKE THOMPSON

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                        Monday, February 2, 2015

  Mr. THOMPSON of California. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize 
Marcie Waldron, who has been named the City of Sonoma's 2015 
Alcaldessa, or Honorary Mayor. The title ``Alcalde,'' or ``Alcaldessa'' 
when referring to a woman, is the Spanish word for ``mayor.'' While the 
Alcalde was the primary civil authority during the Spanish colonial 
period in California, in modern times, it is an honorary title bestowed 
upon invaluable members of the community.
  Ms. Waldron has lived in Sonoma for 12 years, where she has given 
back to the community as a leader and member of community 
organizations. She is the president of the Vintage House board, a non-
profit organization that promotes the well-being of elderly citizens by 
encouraging independence and involvement in community life. Ms. Waldron 
also serves as the interim president of the WillMar Family Grief and 
Healing Center, which provides support to families grieving the loss of 
a loved one or living with family members with a life-altering illness. 
Outside of her leadership roles with these non-profit organizations, 
Ms. Waldron serves as a board member of the Sonoma Community Center and 
Kiwanis of Sonoma Plaza.
  In addition to her involvement in community organizations, Ms. 
Waldron works to raise awareness about organ donation. Herself a double 
transplant recipient, Ms. Waldron speaks to schools and organizations 
honoring donors and stressing the importance of organ donation. Ms. 
Waldron also works to recognize donors through her ``LifeStar'' 
program, which gives donors hand-made silver LifeStar pendants in 
appreciation for their gift of life.
  Mr. Speaker, Marcie Waldron is a beloved and vitally important member 
of the community and it is appropriate that we acknowledge her today as 
Sonoma's Alcaldessa for 2015.

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