BAKERSFIELD – Assemblymember Nicole Parra (D-Hanford) presented special awards to nine women from Kern County and the 30th Assembly District, as part of a ceremony honoring “Leading Ladies” in the Central Valley.  Assemblymember Parra initiated the Garden Tea Party Awards two years ago to publicly recognize the many contributions made by local residents.

“These women represent what Kern County is all about.  They epitomize the spirit of giving and civic participation,” said Assemblymember Parra. “I am honored to recognize their tremendous contributions to the quality of life in the Central Valley.  Their selflessness and commitment to their community makes all of us in Kern County stronger.”

The following individuals were recognized for their community service efforts and achievements.  In alphabetical order:

Jo Anne Brit – Arvin
Dorothy Hefner – Delano
Maria Hernandez – Lamont
Vicki Hight – Wasco
Frances Metzker – Buttonwillow
Yolanda Morales – Mc Farland
Liz Morris – Delano
Gloria Patterson – Bakersfield
Janice Smith – Shafter

This is the 3rd Annual Garden Tea Party for the 30th Assembly District.  Supporters of the event include State Farm Insurance; Wells Fargo Bank; Sierra Recycling; Omega Insurance; Lane Family Funeral Homes of Delano; Big West Oil Refinery; Strong Realty; Attorney Jennifer Floyd; Attorney David Torres, Allison Perkins-Thomas; Wilma Rucker of Rucker’s Family Mortuary; and the Law Offices of Floyd and Horrigan.  Award recipients were selected based on their records of community service and involvement.

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