Floor Statements

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Ms. Wilda Shock. I have named Ms. Shock as the California 4th District's Woman of the Year for Lake County because of her excellent work in our community. This honor 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.

A fifth-generation Lake County resident, Ms. Shock was born in Gainesville, Texas, to her parents Royal and Jane Keeling Dorsett. Her family soon returned to Lake County, where she attended Upper Lake Union Elementary and High Schools, graduating as student body president and class valedictorian. She went on to earn a Bachelor of Arts degree in International Relations and Business Administration from Sacramento State College. Furthering her education, she pursued postgraduate studies at UC Berkeley and CSU Sacramento, specializing in Nonprofit Management and Local Government.

Ms. Shock has been a steadfast advocate for our community through her leadership in

numerous organizations. She has served as President of the Mendocino College Foundation, spearheading initiatives such as the Measure W Campaign and the Adopt A Fifth Grader Program, while securing funding for a nursing instructor. Ms. Shock founded and chaired the Lake County Friends of Mendocino College, ensuring the success of the local campus and its students. Additionally, she has been a driving force behind economic development as President of the Lake County Economic Development Corporation and as the chair of the Economic Development Advisory Committee for the city of Lakeport.

Beyond her contributions to education and economic growth, Ms. Shock has played a vital role in supporting Lake County's cultural and nonprofit sectors. She has held leadership positions in countless community foundations including the Lake County Wine Alliance, the Lake County Land Trust, and the Soper Reese Theatre. Her leadership within organizations such as the California Women for Agriculture and the Blue-Ribbon Committee for the Rehabilitation of Clear Lake has significantly benefited the region's agricultural and environmental stewardship.

Colleagues and peers describe Ms. Shock as hardworking, highly respected, and a visionary leader who fosters collaboration to maximize community resources. Her ability to unite people has ensured the successful implementation of numerous initiatives. Known for her professionalism, generosity, and strong work ethic, Ms. Shock's leadership has strengthened institutions, empowered students, and preserved the cultural and environmental heritage of Lake County.

Mr. Speaker, I extend my deepest gratitude to Ms. Wilda Shock for her dedicated service and lasting contributions to our community. It is fitting and proper that I recognize and honor her extraordinary achievements here today.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Ms. Thea Hensel. I have named Ms. Hensel as the California 4th Congressional District's Woman of the Year for Sonoma County because of her excellent work in our community. This honor 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.

Born in the Bronx, New York, Ms. Hensel pursued her education at Oneonta State University of New York, where she earned a Bachelor of Science degree and a Master's in Education from New York University. Beyond her professional and advocacy work, she enjoys traveling with her daughter, Riana Hensel, hiking and celebrating the arts, food and wine with her friends.

In 2009, Ms. Hensel co-founded the Santa Rosa Southeast Greenway and spearheaded a 15-year grassroots effort to secure 49 acres of former Caltrans property and convert it into a vibrant public park. After 60 years of sitting empty, Ms. Hensel helped secure the transfer of the Caltrans property to the City of Santa Rosa in 2024. Her coalition of organizations, businesses, educators, families and public officials is now designing the Greenway which will serve the diverse needs of our community. Santa Rosa will soon break ground on Ms. Hensel's vision, a sustainable urban green space with community gardens, neighborhood parks, restored natural habitats, and revitalized creeks. Thanks to her leadership, the Southeast Greenway will become the fourth-largest park in the City of Santa Rosa and provide invaluable recreational and ecological benefits to the region.

Ms. Hensel's contributions to Sonoma County extend far beyond her work with the Greenway. She serves as Co-Chair of the Education Committee for Impact 100 Redwood Circle and as Program Co-Chair of the Sonoma County Forum. Her dedication to community service also includes her tenure as a board member of the Sonoma County Bicycle Coalition and her participation as a 2011 fellow at the Leadership Institute for Ecology and the Economy. Additionally, she has supported various projects benefiting local schools, the Sonoma County Symphony and numerous nonprofit organizations.

Mr. Speaker, Ms. Thea Hensel exemplifies the spirit of civic leadership and environmental advocacy. Her vision and perseverance have ensured that future generations in our community will enjoy the benefits of a central urban open space. It is my privilege to recognize and honor her profound contributions to our community here today.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Lisa Hilas. I have named Ms. Hilas as the California 4th District's Woman of the Year for Solano County because of her excellent work in our community. This honor 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.

Born in San Jose, California, Ms. Hilas grew up in the rural town of Arnold in Calaveras County, where she developed a deep appreciation for the arts as a unifying force within communities. She earned a Bachelor of Science in Political Science from Santa Clara University before embarking on a successful career as a corporate travel executive for United Airlines and later as Vice President of Global Travel for JP Morgan Chase, in 2000, she was diagnosed with a rare retinal condition that rendered her legally blind, a challenge she met with remarkable determination. She found a new calling in nonprofit leadership and, in December 2024, earned a Master's degree in Arts Management and Entrepreneurship from the University of Oklahoma. Ms. Hilas currently resides in Vacaville, California, with her husband, Steve, and their beloved miniature Australian Shepherd, Gracie.

Since 2018, Ms. Hilas has served as President of On Stage Vacaville, a nonprofit organization dedicated to fostering artistic expression and enriching our community through the performing arts. Under her leadership, the organization expanded its mission to support local arts organizations devastated by the COVID-19 pandemic. One of her most impactful initiatives is ``Synergy Adaptive Arts,'' an academy providing dance, theatre, and visual arts education for neurodivergent children and adults, ensuring that all members of the community have access to creative expression. Ms. Hilas's commitment to arts accessibility extends beyond our Vacaville community. As the CEO and Founder of Big Lights, Little City, she has championed rural arts programs, supporting venue management and nonprofit consulting to uplift artistic endeavors in underserved areas. Furthermore, Ms. Hilas is a dedicated advocate for animal welfare. She is the Executive Director and Founder of Saving Gracie, a nonprofit dedicated to ending euthanasia due to economic hardship by providing financial assistance for emergency veterinary care. Since its founding in 2016, Saving Gracie has provided over $400,000 in funding to our Solano County residents, ensuring that financial hardship does not separate families from their beloved pets.

Ms. Hilas's advocacy work also extends to human rights. As a Soroptimist and a community organizer, she has collaborated with local nonprofits, law enforcement, and advocacy groups to educate the public about the dangers of human trafficking. She has organized two large- scale community awareness events at the Vacaville Performing Arts Theatre, drawing participation from schools, churches, and our local government to combat this pressing issue. In recognition of her tireless efforts, Ms. Hilas was honored in 2024 by the Solano County Commission on Women and Girls as one of six recipients of the Woman of the Year award. She has also been recognized by Senator Bill Dodd's office with a formal resolution praising her outstanding service to the community. Additionally, she was a featured guest on the Association of Performing Arts Professionals' podcast ``Work, Art, Life,'' where she shared her inspiring journey from corporate leadership to nonprofit advocacy.

Mr. Speaker, Ms. Lisa Hilas's passion, leadership, and determination have profoundly impacted our Solano County community. Her unwavering commitment to the arts, animal welfare, and social advocacy is an inspiration to us all. It is with great honor and deep appreciation that I recognize her invaluable contributions here today.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the inRESPONSE Mental Health Support Team of the Santa Rosa Police Department. I have named the team as the California 4th District's Public Safety Hero of the Year for Sonoma County in recognition of their extraordinary selflessness, dedication, and service to our community.

Established in January 2022 in response to community calls for a mental health-first approach to crisis intervention, inRESPONSE offers a compassionate alternative to traditional emergency response. The team consists of a licensed mental health clinician, a paramedic, a homeless engagement specialist, and wrap-around service providers, all trained in de-escalation, social work interventions, and both physical and mental health evaluations.

The inRESPONSE team operates under a collaborative model, working alongside non-profits, county-licensed mental health clinicians, and public safety officials to ensure that each call is handled with an individualized, needs-based approach. Recognizing that mental health challenges vary widely, the team provides bilingual and bi-cultural support, addressing issues such as food insecurity, substance abuse, housing instability, and long-term mental health treatment.

Though inRESPONSE works closely with the Santa Rosa Police Department, they remain unarmed in the field, allowing for a response centered on care rather than enforcement. This approach not only alleviates strain on law enforcement and emergency medical services but also reduces the potential for use-of-force incidents while increasing access to essential mental health care. In 2023 alone, inRESPONSE successfully diverted 4,976 calls from traditional police and emergency responders.

In 2024, inRESPONSE expanded to a 24/7 operational schedule, responding to 4,977 calls for service and nearly 1,000 additional calls for resources and support. The team diverted 4,301 calls from police response and 1,772 from fire and EMS, ensuring that those in crisis received the specialized care they needed while preserving vital emergency resources for other community needs.

Mr. Speaker, the inRESPONSE Mental Health Support Team has profoundly improved crisis intervention services in Santa Rosa, creating a safer, more supportive community. Their dedication to serving individuals in their most vulnerable moments exemplifies the spirit of public service. It is both fitting and proper that we recognize and honor them today.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Fire Captain Bret Butler, a dedicated and courageous member of the Lake Pillsbury Fire Protection District. I have named Captain Butler as the California 4th District's Public Safety Hero of the Year for Lake County in recognition of his extraordinary selflessness, leadership, and unwavering commitment to protecting his community.

Captain Butler was born in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, and raised in Walnut Creek, California. He graduated from Northgate High School before pursuing studies at the Controlled Data Institute in San Francisco. After spending much of his professional life in Concord, he retired to his cabin--now his permanent home--in the Rice Fork community of Lake Pillsbury.

Captain Butler has been a steadfast leader in the Lake Pillsbury Fire Protection District, where he has risen through the ranks from Firefighter to Fire Captain. In addition to his operational leadership, he serves as the Federal Excess Equipment Program coordinator with CalFire. He also demonstrated remarkable bravery during the 2018 Mendocino Complex Fire, aiding in firefighting efforts and the evacuation of a Hotshot crew. Within the community, he is widely regarded as the unofficial ``Mayor'' and ``Real Estate Agent'' of our Rice Fork community due to his deep-rooted involvement and dedication to the well-being of its residents. Captain Butler is happily married to his wife, Debra Butler.

Beyond his firefighting duties, Captain Butler has made countless contributions to the Lake Pillsbury community. He played a crucial role in procuring and installing mile marker signs along the 36-mile stretch of road in the Lake Pillsbury Basin, greatly improving emergency response times. He has also been a key advocate for evacuation route improvements, drone mapping projects, and defensible space initiatives, particularly for seniors and veterans. Additionally, he facilitated the donation of an ambulance and fire engine to the district and personally installed a solar system for Fire Station 2.

Mr. Speaker, Fire Captain Bret Butler's courage, leadership, and dedication to service have had a profound impact on his community. His selfless actions during the Mendocino Complex Fire and his ongoing contributions to public safety exemplify the very best of our first responders. It is with great honor and deep appreciation that we recognize him today.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Emergency Medical Technician Michael ``Mike'' Robinson of the Medic Ambulance Service's Solano Division. I have named Mr. Robinson as the California 4th District's Public Safety Hero of the Year for Solano County because of his extraordinary selflessness, dedication, and service to others.

Born and raised in Woodland, California, Michael pursued his passion for emergency services by earning associate degrees in Fire Science and Business before beginning his career with Medic Ambulance Service in 2012 as a Wheelchair/Gurney Van Technician. His dedication to serving his community and helping his patients led Mr. Robinson to quickly rise through the ranks to Emergency Medical Technician, officially becoming a certified paramedic in 2017.

Amid the national healthcare provider shortage brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic, Mr. Robinson stepped up to become a paramedic preceptor. In this role, he shared his years of experience and depth of knowledge with interns, supporting them in obtaining their paramedic licenses. In recognition of his outstanding service to our Solano County community, Mr. Robinson was bestowed the prestigious Stars of Life award by the American Ambulance Association in 2023.

Mr. Robinson is also a pivotal member of Medic Ambulance's emergency response team. A notable emergency in 2024 demonstrates Mr. Robinson's exceptional leadership while precepting an intern in the field. Dispatched with the intern to aid a citizen who had been shot in the chest, Mr. Robinson quickly assessed the patient had diminished lung sounds and was struggling to draw in oxygen. Under his steady guidance, the intern performed a needle thoracostomy, which immediately improved the patient's breathing and blood oxygen levels. Thanks to Mr. Robinson's decisive actions and leadership, the patient made a full recovery.

Beyond his work in the field, Mr. Robinson has played a crucial role in improving the overall efficiency and effectiveness of Solano County's Emergency Medical Services. Mr. Robinson mentors interns and aspiring paramedics, contributes to company initiatives aimed at improving ambulance technology, and takes on extra shifts to support his colleagues. Additionally, he represents the Field Training Officers in the Medic Ambulance quality assurance program, ensuring high standards of patient care, and serves as a shop steward for the union.

Outside of his professional commitments, Mr. Robinson is a devoted father to his three children, Sandy, Abby, and Hailey. Michael finds joy in spending time with his family, enjoying outdoor adventures like camping and fishing, and passionately engaging in his favorite sport, hockey. Mr. Robinson is also deeply involved in his local church, where he has led youth group meetings and taught Sunday School classes for the past five years.

Mr. Speaker, Emergency Medical Technician Mike Robinson's expertise and dedication

have greatly benefited both his patients and Solano County's Emergency Medical Services. His commitment to our community and his leadership in training the next generation of paramedics exemplify the best of public service. I extend our community's gratitude for his years of dedicated service and find it fitting and proper that we honor him here today.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Battalion Chief Emily Lo of the Davis Fire Department. I have named Chief Lo as the California's 4th District Public Safety Hero of the Year for Yolo County in honor of her 35 years of extraordinary selflessness, dedication and service to others, as she retires from firefighting.

Born in Taipei, Taiwan, Chief Lo immigrated to the United States in 1981. She earned an Associate of Science degree in Fire Technology from American River College and a Bachelor of Science in Fire Service Management from California State University, Sacramento. Chief Lo currently resides in Davis with her husband, Rob, and is a devoted mother to Austin and Lola.

Chief Lo began her career in 1990 as a firefighter with the Fairfield Fire Department before joining the Davis Fire Department in 1991. Over the next three decades, she rose through the ranks, earning a promotion to Fire Captain in 2002 and then to Battalion Chief in 2022. Her rise in leadership was historic--she was the first female firefighter and the first Asian American Battalion Chief in the Davis Fire Department's history.

Beyond her work on the front lines of fighting fires, Chief Lo has been a dedicated leader and advocate for her profession. She served on the Executive Board as Treasurer for Davis Firefighters Local 3494 for 25 years, making her the longest-serving female firefighter union officer in California history. As Co-Chair and a founding member of the California Firefighters Joint Apprenticeship Committee's Commission to Recruit Women for the Fire Service, she played a pivotal role in increasing diversity within the profession. Chief Lo was also an active delegate for both the California Professional Firefighters and the International Association of Firefighters, where she advocated on critical issues such as firefighter cancer risk, labor rights and retirement security. Additionally, she served as a delegate to the 2000 Democratic National Convention and has been a dedicated grassroots advocate for numerous local and state candidates.

Chief Lo's dedication extends beyond the firehouse. She has volunteered annually for the Davis Firefighter's ``Fill the Boot'' Thanksgiving Basket program, ensuring that Yolo County families have meals during the holiday season. She also worked alongside Thriving Pink, a nonprofit that supports breast cancer survivors, to help raise thousands of dollars through their annual crab feed.

Chief Lo's career has been defined by resilience, leadership and commitment to service. She has thrived in a male-dominated field, breaking barriers while earning the respect and admiration of her colleagues. Her humor, integrity and loyalty to her profession made her an inspiration to future generations of firefighters.

Mr. Speaker, it is fitting and proper that we honor Battalion Chief Emily Lo for her extraordinary service, leadership and dedication to the Davis community. We thank her for her lifelong commitment to public safety and wish her a fulfilling and well-deserved retirement.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Detective Kelsea Nelson of the Santa Rosa Police Department. I have named Detective Nelson as the California 4th District's Public Safety Hero of the Year for Sonoma County because of her extraordinary selflessness, dedication, and service to others.

Detective Nelson was born in Southern California but has called Sonoma County home since she was four years old. Her family resides in Santa Rosa, and her partner works in victim advocacy, serving many of the same vulnerable populations she does. She earned an Associate of Arts degree in Humanities from Santa Rosa Junior College and a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology with an emphasis in Law and Society from the University of California, Davis.

Detective Nelson began her career with the Santa Rosa Police Department in 2016 as a Records Technician. She transitioned to a police officer role in 2018 and took her current assignment as a Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Detective in 2023. In addition to her investigative duties, Detective Nelson serves her department as a drone operator, honor guard member and defensive tactics instructor. She has also volunteered as a Crisis Line Counselor with Verity, Sonoma County's sexual assault crisis support organization.

Her outstanding work on a missing juvenile case exemplifies her dedication to protecting the most vulnerable. In May 2024, she led an investigation into a missing juvenile case, utilizing the National Crime Information Center's (NCIC) resources to track a suspect across multiple states. Her swift and strategic efforts, in coordination with federal and local law enforcement, led to the safe recovery of the juvenile and the apprehension of the suspect, who now faces multiple state and federal charges. Detective Nelson's exceptional work earned her the NCIC 2024 Success Story of the Year award, a testament to her skill, dedication, and relentless pursuit of justice.

Detective Nelson's work shows her selfless dedication and service at the highest levels to our community and the Law Enforcement profession.

Mr. Speaker, it is fitting and proper that we recognize and honor Detective Kelsea Nelson for her outstanding service. Her tireless dedication to justice and public safety makes our community a better and safer place. We congratulate her on this well-earned recognition and thank her for her continued service.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Station Leader Roger Lutz, III of the Napa County Fire Department. I have named Mr. Lutz as the California 4th District's Public Safety Hero of the Year for Napa County because of his extraordinary selflessness, dedication and service to others.

Born in San Luis Obispo and raised in Napa County, Mr. Lutz has dedicated his life to protecting and serving his community. After graduating from St Helena High School, Mr. Lutz pursued studies in Fire Science at Santa Rosa Junior College before earning his Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) Certification from Napa County Junior College.

Mr. Lutz began his fire service career in 1992 as an Explorer at the Deer Park Napa County Fire Station before becoming a Volunteer Firefighter in 1993. Over the years, he advanced through the ranks to become the Station Lead, a role he has held for over a decade. In addition, he has served as an Engine Boss for more than 20 years, leading critical fire response efforts across the region. Throughout his dedicated service to the community, Mr. Lutz has also maintained full-time employment at his family's company.

Mr. Lutz has been on the front lines of numerous fires. These include the Topanga Fire, Tubbs Fire, Glass Fire, Valley Fire, and most recently, the Eaton Fire. His leadership and expertise have been instrumental in mitigating these devastating wildfires and protecting lives and property.

In addition to his exemplary fieldwork, Mr. Lutz has played a key role in shaping the next generation of firefighters. Through his mentorship, he has guided many of his peers into successful careers in the fire service. His influence and dedication to professional development are reflected in his work on multiple committees within the Napa County Fire Department, including the Equipment Committee, Adhoc Committee, Radio Communications Committee, and Training Officer Committee.

Beyond his professional achievements, Mr. Lutz is known for his tireless work ethic, humility, and compassion. His colleagues and community members regard him as a leader who leads by example, never seeking recognition but always putting the needs of others first. His selflessness and dedication make him not only a respected firefighter but also a cherished friend and role model to all who know him.

Mr. Speaker, Station Lead Roger Lutz, III embodies the highest ideals of public service and leadership. His decades of dedication to the fire service and our community have left an indelible mark on Napa County and beyond. It is with great respect and appreciation that we recognize his contributions and honor him here today.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Detective Michael Nakahara of the Lake County Sheriff's Office I have named Detective Nakahara as the California 4th District's Public Safety Hero of the Year for Lake County because of his extraordinary selflessness, dedication and service to others.

Born in Japan and raised in Hawaii by his parents, Scott and Susan Nakahara, Detective Nakahara graduated from the Hawai'i Preparatory Academy in 2014 before attending the San Joaquin Delta College P.O.S.T. Academy in 2021. He joined the Lake County Sheriff's Office later that year and, through his hard work, was assigned to the Major Crimes Unit in February 2024. In addition to his investigative duties, Detective Nakahara serves as an Explorer Advisor for the Lake County Sheriff's Office Explorer Post, mentoring young people interested in careers in law enforcement. His contributions to the department were recognized in December 2024 when he was awarded the Lake County Sheriff's Office Community Service Award and Sheriff's Citation.

Detective Nakahara demonstrated his skill while working on Lake County's first-ever fentanyl homicide case. Beginning in February 2024, he partnered with Sergeant Jeffrey Mora to investigate the tragic death of 17-year-old Illeanna Frease, a Native American youth. Despite this being his first major case, as well as his first homicide case, Detective Nakahara tackled the investigation with tireless resolve. Over several months, he authored numerous reports and search warrants and conducted extensive interviews, allowing the evidence to guide him to the truth. His tenacity led to the arrest and charging of a suspect with second-degree murder who will face a jury trial this March. This case garnered widespread support from the Native American community at both the local and state levels and underscores the critical role Detective Nakahara plays in bringing justice to victims and their families.

Beyond his law enforcement duties, Detective Nakahara is an engaged member of our Lake County community. During the 2024 football season, he volunteered over 100 hours as an assistant coach for the Youth Varsity Kelseyville Chiefs in the Kelseyville Chiefs Youth Football League. His efforts helped instill values of teamwork, sportsmanship, and personal integrity in young athletes while strengthening the bond between the Sheriff's Office and the local community.

Mr. Speaker, Detective Michael Nakahara embodies the highest ideals of law enforcement--courage, dedication, and an unwavering pursuit of justice. Our citizens of Lake County and the Sheriff's Office can depend on him to protect and serve with honor and integrity. It is my privilege to recognize and commend Detective Nakahara for his outstanding contributions, and I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring him today.

Mr. Speaker, today I rise to honor Officer Matthew Bowen of the Vacaville Police Department. I have named Officer Bowen as the California 4th District's Public Safety Hero of the Year for Solano County in honor of his ultimate sacrifice to our community, tragically losing his life in the line of duty. Officer Bowen exemplified the highest ideals of law enforcement--service, integrity, and sacrifice--and his devotion to protecting our community will never be forgotten.

Born in Walnut Creek, California, Officer Bowen was active in his church and the Boy Scouts of America, where he became a senior leader of his troop and achieved the prestigious rank of Eagle Scout. His commitment

to service led him to Arizona State University, where he earned a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice, preparing him for a career dedicated to public safety.

Officer Bowen joined the Vacaville Police Department in 2023 after serving with distinction as a Police Officer for the City of Concord. In both departments, he was celebrated for his kindness, humor, work ethic, and unwavering calm under pressure. Colleagues and community members alike remember him as a compassionate officer who treated everyone with dignity and respect.

On Thursday, July 11, 2024, Officer Bowen was initiating a traffic stop when he was struck by a vehicle, tragically losing his life in the line of duty. His selfless dedication to protecting others, even in the face of danger, is a testament to his courage and commitment to public service.

Officer Bowen is survived by his wife, Elizabeth, and their two young sons, Mason and Everett. In the wake of his passing, condolences poured in from across the country, with community members sharing heartfelt memories of his kindness and dedication. He was remembered as an inspiration to others, a person who encouraged those around him to be better, and as a compassionate soul who went beyond the duties of his profession to support those in need.

Mr. Speaker, Officer Bowen's bravery, compassion, and unwavering commitment to his community embody the very essence of public service. His loss is deeply felt, but his memory will endure as an inspiration to all who follow in his footsteps. We extend our deepest condolences to his family, friends, and colleagues, and we honor Officer Matthew Bowen's legacy of courage and sacrifice. He will never be forgotten.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Canine Officer Murph of the Vacaville Police Department's K-9 Unit. I have named Canine Officer Murph as the California 4th District's Public Safety Hero of the Year for Solano County because of his extraordinary selflessness, dedication and service to others.

Born on July 4, 2020, Canine Officer Murph began his law enforcement career in 2021. Paired with his partner, Officer Chad Hudson, the two quickly became the senior K-9 team of the Vacaville Police Department's K-9 unit. Canine Officer Murph has been expertly trained to assist in the apprehension of criminal suspects and the detection of narcotics. Canine Officer Murph has facilitated numerous arrests, assisted nearly every department within the agency, and worked numerous hours in the line of duty.

Canine Officer Murph is also heavily involved in the Vacaville Police Department's mission of community engagement. When Canine Officer Murph was not actively patrolling, he and his partner conducted canine demonstrations to showcase their unique skillset and abilities to the public. Of these demonstrations, Canine Officer Murph's favorite engagements are with elementary school students in

the Travis and Vacaville Unified School Districts. Canine Officer Murph is a favorite among the students and these visits have allowed him to connect with hundreds of children.

On Wednesday, January 15, 2025, Canine Officer Murph assisted the Vacaville Police Department with the service of a high-risk arrest warrant. During this operation, the suspect, a suicidal individual who had attempted on many occasions to harm uninvolved members of the public, was confronted in front of his residence. The suspect was armed with a rifle, and Canine Officer Murph was deployed in a heroic effort to resolve the engagement without using lethal force.

Tragically, the suspect fired upon Canine Officer Murph and struck him in his left paw, causing a serious injury that ultimately resulted in the amputation of his leg. Despite his injury, Canine Officer Murph was able to successfully detain the suspect and prevent further harm to the public. During this incident, Canine Officer Murph displayed exemplary bravery and demonstrated the importance of his specialized training Canine Officer Murph is currently recovering at home under the care of his partner Officer Hudson. On the day of his return home, K-9 teams across the region lined the streets to honor his service.

Mr. Speaker, Canine Officer Murph has displayed courage and valor in all aspects of his work. His selfless dedication and unfaltering bravery exemplify the highest levels of public service. Canine Officer Murph is truly. deserving of this honor, and we wish him a speedy recovery and many dog treats in his future.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Sergeant Erik Olson of the Napa County Sheriff's Office. I have named Sergeant Olson as the California 4th District's Public Safety Hero of the Year for

Napa County as a result of his extraordinary selflessness, dedication and service to others.

Born in Hayward, California, Sergeant Olson moved to Napa in 1980. He is a graduate of Vintage High School and holds a Bachelor of Arts in Criminal Justice Administration from Sonoma State University. Sergeant Olson attended the Napa Valley College Police Academy, graduating as class president in 2005.

In December of 2005 Sergeant Olson began his career with the Napa County Sheriff's Office. During his nineteen years of service, Sergeant Olson has held a multitude of positions, including Marine Patrol Deputy, K-9 Handler, Field Training Officer, Search and Rescue Team Liaison, Community Emergency Response Team Liaison, Napa Sheriff's Mounted Posse Liaison, EVOC/PIT Instructor, and Mobile Field Force Team Leader. Sergeant Olson was promoted to the rank of Sergeant in 2021, retiring his K-9 partner of seven years, Chase. Sergeant Olson currently serves as the Marine Patrol and Off Highway Vehicle Unit Supervisor in Lake Berryessa.

On June 8, 2024, the Napa Central Dispatch received 9-1-1 calls regarding a shooting and fight between ten individuals in the Oak Shores Day Use Area of Lake Berryessa. Sergeant Olson responded to this call, learning as he arrived on the scene there were multiple victims with stab wounds and a gunshot victim. Sergeant Olson then attempted to locate the gunshot victim, breaking up a fight and assisting an unconscious victim in the midst of his search. After locating the shooting victim, Sergeant Olson immediately administered life-saving measures. Tragically, the victim passed from their injuries.

As the only officer on the scene for seven minutes, Sergeant Olson's presence was essential in bringing calm to the situation. He performed essential aid to victims and provided Napa Central Dispatch with critical information to relay to other responding units. Sergeant Olson's quick response allowed the shooting suspect to be apprehended and for safety to be restored to the area.

Sergeant Olson's actions during this incident show selfless dedication and service at the highest levels to our community and the Law Enforcement profession.

Outside of his law enforcement service, Sergeant Olson is also involved in his community, serving at The Father's House ``We Love Our City'' Ministry, which works in partnership with the Napa Valley Food Bank. Beyond his community service, Sergeant Olson loves to spend time with his wife, Sara, and their two daughters, Kadance and Kirra. He is an avid golfer and enjoys spending time outdoors, both hobbies he enjoys with his family.

Mr. Speaker, Sergeant Olson's actions on June 8, 2024, as well as his nineteen years of work with the Napa County Sheriff's Office, exemplify the ideals of public service. His courage, dedication, and quick- thinking are truly admirable, and we honor him today.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Deputy Reiko Matsumura, an

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the Town of Yountville as it celebrates the 60th anniversary of its incorporation.

Yountville's origins can be traced back to 1836, when George C. Yount received an 11,887-acre land grant from the Mexican government. Mr. Yount named his land Caymus Rancho after a local Native American tribe, and planted the Napa Valley's first vineyard, laying the foundation for what would become one of the most celebrated wine regions in the world. In the early 1850's, Mr. Yount laid out a six-block area with a public square, creating a village he named Yountville.

Yountville was officially incorporated on February 5, 1965, becoming the fourth incorporated community in Napa County. At that time, the population was approximately 2,600, which included 2,000 residents at the Veterans Home of California-Yountville, a cornerstone of our Yountville community.

Since its incorporation, Yountville has transformed into a world- renowned destination praised for its cuisine, wine, and art. The establishment of Domaine Chandon and Vintage 1870 in the 1970's set the stage for the town's evolution into a culinary and cultural hub, helping to establish the town's commitment to farmland preservation and as a place for the wine community to grow. Yountville has also become the home to renown establishments, including The French Laundry, which has earned international acclaim for its innovative dining experience.

In recent years, Yountville has achieved several significant milestones. In 2016, Yountville's Town Hall was added to the National Register of Historic Places, reflecting its architectural and historical significance in our Nation. In 2019, the LGBTQ+ flag was raised for the first time at the Yountville Town Hall during Pride Month, underscoring the town's commitment to inclusivity and equality. During the global pandemic in 2020, Yountville was resilient, supporting its residents and businesses through unprecedented challenges. In 2024, Yountville celebrated two key anniversaries: the 150th anniversary of the Yountville Community Church and the 140th anniversary of the founding of the Veterans Home of California- Yountville. Additionally in 2024, the town purchased the former Yountville Elementary School property, renaming it Yountville Commons to serve as a community space for future generations.

Today, Yountville remains committed to preserving its small-town charm while embracing sustainable growth and innovation. The town prioritizes maintaining a safe and healthy environment, respecting its agricultural heritage, and enhancing the quality of life for its residents with its services and amenities. Its parks, public art and vibrant local businesses continue to attract visitors from around the world, solidifying Yountville's place as a cherished town in our Napa Valley community.

Mr. Speaker, it is evident that the Town of Yountville is a community rich in history, culture, and resilience. Therefore, it is fitting and proper that we honor the town and its residents here today.