[Congressional Record Volume 162, Number 55 (Tuesday, April 12, 2016)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E405]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                      HONORING MR. PATRICK GARCIA

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. MIKE THOMPSON

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                        Tuesday, April 12, 2016

  Mr. THOMPSON of California. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Mr. 
Patrick Garcia, who has served the citizens of Sonoma County with 
distinction in various volunteer efforts since he moved to the county 
in 1971.
  Every December, the town of Sonoma selects an Alcalde, or honorary 
mayor, for the year. For 2016, the city has chosen Mr. Garcia for his 
unfailing efforts to improve the lives of those around him, 
particularly those who are less fortunate. Mr. Garcia has a long list 
of achievements in the community. In 1972, just a year after moving to 
Sonoma County, he established a tutoring and mentoring program for the 
children of migrant farmworkers, which he operated out of an office at 
Sonoma State University.
  Mr. Garcia also championed and helped establish a low-income housing 
project in Sonoma County in 1979 that was the first of its kind. The 
project was funded two years later by Burbank Housing, and in 1985 
residents moved into 12 new homes. More recently, Mr. Garcia served as 
the director of the local State Historical Parks Association. He can 
also be found on occasion at the Basque Bakery, giving away free bread 
to those less fortunate in the community.
  Throughout his life, Mr. Garcia has been known for aiming high and 
getting it done. These attributes, when paired with Mr. Garcia's 
passion for charity work, have made him a highly effective force for 
good in Sonoma County.
  Mr. Garcia's charitable spirit, tireless attitude, and love for his 
community are all traits to be admired. Mr. Speaker, Patrick Garcia has 
served the Sonoma County community with dedication and compassion for 
over thirty years, and it is therefore fitting and proper that we honor 
him here today.

                          ____________________