Artesia News

Thanksgiving for Seniors

From time to time, someone will make a joke about sheriffs being public servants. “Hey, you’re a public servant,” teased comedian George Carlin, “get me a glass of water!” Coincidentally, at the Nov. 16 senior luncheon at Artesia Park, the sheriffs were doing just that and more for approximately 400 seniors.

The senior luncheon was a breath of fresh air for Artesia seniors, who were given updates on Artesia’s latest news and events as they were served tasty meals with a Thanksgiving theme, including turkey, mashed potatoes, pumpkin pie, and more.

Captain Dave Fender, from the Lakewood Sheriff’s Department, reported that Artesia’s crime has gone down 49 percent, a fact that was met with loud applause.

Claire Li, from Congresswoman Linda Sanchez’s office, reported on medals given during Veterans Day.

Erin Stibahl, of county director Don Knabe’s office, commended the sheriffs and police as also protecting the freedom which our veterans protect.

Councilmember John Martins and Antonio Mendoza were also present. Martins informed seniors of the city’s website, www.cityofartesia.us, and of the information available.

On a special note, this luncheon will be the last one for one of the city’s most recognized faces, Dorothy Hoekstra. Hoekstra is the park’s senior coordinator, who plans events, activities, and trips for Artesia’s seniors. Hoekstra announced a few months ago that she will be retiring.


Dorothy Hoekstra smiles in front of a sheriff vehicle.	This lucky individual won some ham in the raffle.	Senior Coordinator Dorothy Hoekstra (front left) next to her supervisor Natalie Herrera. Helena Nedeiros is behind them.

Linda Sanchez’s representative Claire Li and City Councilman John Martins	Artesia’s Special Assignment Officer Sergeant Jeanette Duran-Dingillo.	Councilmember John Martins says good things about Artesia’s website.

This sheriff put special meaning in the term “public servant”.	Erin Miranda of Senator Alan Lowenthal’s office, Public Works Consultant Chuck Burkhardt, and City Manager Maria Dadian	Public Safety Commissioner Chairman John Bothof attends senior luncheons regularly.

Sheriffs showed up in force to serve the seniors	People meeting and sharing.	We're one big happy family!


Happy Thanksgiving