Advocate for library, seniors named 2011 Alcalde

Mary Evelyn Arnold, a tireless volunteer for Sonoma non-profits and the public library, has been named Sonoma Alcalde by Mayor Laurie Gallian.

The honorary title is bestowed annually on a resident who takes a leading, selfless role in community service to Sonoma Valley and, according to a city description of the post “is well-known for consistent behind-the-scenes good deeds.”

Arnold, a semi-finalist last year, was chosen from a list of three nominees. The others were Bill Hammett and John Donnelly.

Arnold is on the Vintage House board of directors and spends additional time there as a hands-on volunteer.

“Mary Evelyn is the quintessential volunteer, making the world a better place by sharing her skills and resources with causes she believes in,” said Cynthia Scarborough, executive director of Vintage House.

“We’re blessed that Vintage House, where Mary Evelyn serves as treasurer and chair of our investment committee, ranks high among her causes,” Scarborough said. “What makes this recognition so appropriate is that not only does Mary Evelyn give generously, she does so without any desire for recognition — much to the consternation of those who track volunteer hours.”

Arnold has served on the Sonoma Valley Library advisory board and the Sonoma County Library Commission. A member of the Kiwanis Club, she volunteers at the WillMar Center, Pets Lifeline and the Meals on Wheels program. She is active within her church as well.

The position of Alcalde — the Spanish word for ‘mayor’ — grew in power with the rise of the pueblo system. Back then, the job entailed everything from settling disputes over land and cattle to ruling on murder charges.

As resurrected by the city in 1975, the annual position is ceremonial. Chew will be given a silver-headed cane as a symbol of the honor and make appearances at numerous public events, including heading the Fourth of July Parade and the Vintage Festival Parade.

The honorary Alcalde for 2009 was Niels Chew.