[Congressional Record Volume 169, Number 51 (Tuesday, March 21, 2023)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E231]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]





                          HONORING BILL LYNCH

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. MIKE THOMPSON

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                        Tuesday, March 21, 2023

  Mr. THOMPSON of California. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Bill 
Lynch, for receiving the title of Sonoma City Alcalde in 2023.
  Mr. Lynch has dedicated his life to the people of the city of Sonoma, 
California. During the Vietnam War, Mr. Lynch served in the U.S. Navy. 
Upon his return home, Mr. Lynch was a volunteer firefighter and served 
on countless boards and commissions. Mr. Lynch has devoted himself to 
the city of Sonoma for decades.
  Mr. Lynch worked as the publisher of the Sonoma Index Tribune for 40 
years, carrying on a 128-year family legacy of running the city paper. 
Throughout his career in journalism, Mr. Lynch developed numerous 
relationships throughout the city. He faithfully reported on the issues 
that were important to the people of Sonoma, even when it made him 
unpopular with the City Council. In 1998, Mr. Lynch wrote a story about 
a resort that was to be built in the city, which led to a citywide 
protest to prevent the completion of the deal. Although it sometimes 
made enemies, Mr. Lynch was never afraid to stand up for what he 
believed to be in the best interest of his community.
  Mr. Lynch has also given back to Sonoma in many other ways in 
addition to his profession. He started the Youth Soccer Program and 
formed a committee to establish the modern Vintage Festival which 
celebrates the rich wine history in Sonoma Valley. He also worked on 
several committees which raised money for the Boys and Girls Club and 
is instrumental in raising funds to keep Sonoma Valley Hospital's doors 
open.
  Mr. Lynch is a family man, with a heart as ``big as his community''. 
For all his years of public service, Mr. Lynch does not ask for awards 
or honors, but is happy to work behind the scenes for the good of our 
community.
  Mr. Speaker, it is evident that Bill Lynch has devoted his life to 
our Sonoma community. I am proud to call Bill my friend. Therefore, it 
is fitting and proper that we honor him here today.

                          ____________________