[Congressional Record Volume 169, Number 60 (Thursday, April 6, 2023)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E296]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                     HONORING BROOKE IGLEHEART ROSS

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. MIKE THOMPSON

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                        Thursday, April 6, 2023

  Mr. THOMPSON of California. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the 
Brooke Igleheart Ross whom I have named the 2023 Woman of the Year for 
Sonoma County because of her excellent work in our community. Woman of 
the Year recognizes women who have made important contributions to 
California's 4th Congressional District in Arts and Culture, 
Professional Achievement, Entrepreneurship and Innovation or Community 
Service.
  Ms. Igleheart Ross grew up in Southern California and San Luis Obispo 
County with her mom, dad, and little sister Hilary. She received a 
degree in Merchandise Marketing from the Fashion Institute of Design 
and Merchandising in Los Angeles, California, before moving to Sonoma 
County.
  Ms. Igleheart Ross is a prominent leader in the business and recovery 
communities because of her passion for supporting others who have 
overcome alcohol and substance abuse challenges. She is an outstanding 
member of our community, helping those who struggle with substance 
abuse to reintegrate into the workforce.
  Last July, a major Residential Treatment Facility in Sonoma County 
called Athena House, was threatened with closure. Athena House provides 
housing and care for women and children who struggle with substance 
use. With its closure, the home's residents were at risk of losing 
their housing and medical treatment entirely. After hearing this news, 
Ms. Igleheart Ross, having been a part of the Athena House program, and 
her counterpart Jasmine Palmer worked tirelessly to save this vital 
treatment center. They dedicated themselves to informing the community 
of how devastating the loss would be for those who need treatment, 
while also raising money to buy the property. Before the facility 
closed, they were able to help secure the funding, that made it 
possible to not only keep but also expand and enhance the program by 
partnering with Buckelew Programs.
  Ms. Igleheart Ross currently lives in Sonoma County with her husband 
Robert, stepdaughter Natalie, and black lab Harley. A small business 
owner, marketing director, and real estate agent, Brooke has 
contributed to her community through a variety of professions.
  Ms. Igleheart Ross is a tenacious and loyal community member who has 
been a fierce advocate for the needs of those struggling with substance 
abuse. Therefore, it is fitting that we honor her here today as Sonoma 
County's 2023 Woman of the Year.

                          ____________________