[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 154 (2008), Part 18]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page 24396]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]




                 CELEBRATING THE LIFE OF NOEMI ANDERSON

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                          HON. LYNN C. WOOLSEY

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                      Wednesday, November 19, 2008

  Ms. WOOLSEY. Madam Speaker, I rise today to celebrate Noemi Anderson 
of Petaluma, California, for an unusual accomplishment. Noemi just 
turned 111 years old, making her the oldest person in Sonoma County, 
the 67th oldest person on earth, and even the oldest known member of 
the American Association of University Women (AAUW).
  Noemi doesn't know the secret of her longevity. She has always 
exercised, eaten her vegetables, and quit smoking over 50 years ago. 
But these activities alone cannot account for her years. That is 
probably why researchers are studying her life and genetics to unravel 
the secret.
  Although her mind and body are in good shape, Noemi laments the loss 
of her eyesight a few years ago. Until then, she was a sharp bridge 
player, ardent about the game and with an astonishing memory for the 
cards. Today, her memory is still quick as she talks about her life and 
her past.
  Born on September 28, 1897, Noemi Bernard grew up on a ranch in 
Oregon and later attended UC Berkeley. She became a history teacher and 
worked in various schools, marrying fellow teach Henry ``Andy'' 
Anderson in 1928. Shortly after their daughter Janice was born, she 
left teaching to take care of her home, including designing a new house 
for the family.
  Andy and Noemi led a full life in Hanford and also traveled a great 
deal. When Andy passed away in 1988, Noemi moved to the Bay Area to be 
near Janice and her family. Today she lives in an assisted living 
facility in Petaluma. Janice passed away in 2001.
  Madam Speaker, although we know we can't all live to be 111 years 
old, it is fitting to honor Noemi Anderson whose life exemplifies for 
us the benefits of living with enthusiasm and grace. I hope she will 
have many more birthdays to celebrate.

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