The first woman to serve as the mayor of Watsonville died at her home yesterday. Ann Soldo, The daughter of Croatian immigrants, was born and raised in Pajaro and worked in Pajaro Valley schools as a teacher and administrator for over 30 years before winning election to city council in 1979. She was elected to mayor in 1983 and was active in many community groups in the county. She was named the Pajaro Valley Chamber of Commerce Woman of the Year in 1967 and Ann. M. Soldo Elementary School was named after her in 1999. She is survived by a stepdaughter, a nephew and numerous nieces. Services will be held on February 4th.
