Thomas Daschle: “today I offer my best regards and sincere congratulations to Mary Thompson as she is being honored as the First Lady of…”

“today I offer my best regards and sincere congratulations to Mary Thompson as she is being honored as the First Lady of Aberdeen, SD. As you know, Aberdeen is my hometown. Since 1948, we've had the tradition of naming a First Lady of the town. The First Ladies of Aberdeen, sponsored by Beta Sigma Phi, are selected for their outstanding service to the community in many areas including culture, religion, education, arts and politics. Mary has been very active in each and every one of these areas. Mary has served the Plymouth Congregational Church as secretary- treasurer, as leader of Puritan Circle, and she has held various officer posts with Women's Fellowship and numerous other committees. As a proud born Norwegian, Mary has actively participated in Sons of Norway for many years. She and her husband, Robert, have opened their home and welcomed visitors from across the country and the world. Mary is also an Avera St. Luke's Hospital Auxiliary member; for several years, she has worked in the gift shop and on special projects. Now retired, Mary records movies and television specials and takes them to the sick, lonely and shut-ins. I have had the pleasure of knowing Mary since I was a small child, and I consider her a dear friend and gracious lady. Mary and my mother, Betty, have been friends for many years, and both love playing bridge. For nearly 50 years, Mary has played bridge with the Northern State University Faculty Bridge Club.”