The Hanford Civic Auditorium was the safest place in all of Kings County on Friday afternoon, as law enforcement, firefighters, ambulance workers and other safety officials gathered there for the 11th annual Public Safety Appreciation Luncheon, hosted by the Chamber of Commerce.

"The purpose of us being here is to not just honor these individuals, but to honor all of the men and women who dedicate their careers to the protection of our property and personal safety," said Kings County Superior Court Judge Louis Bissig, this year's master of ceremonies for the event.

Nominees were given plaques to commemorate the award. Most gave short thank you speeches, quickly deflecting praise back to supportive family members and co-workers.

"Although they don't ask for it, I know that everyone who receives these awards is very appreciative," said Hanford Police Chief Carlos Mestas.

Mestas quoted a scene from the 1992 film "A Few Good Men" with actress Demi Moore when praising Officer Stephanie Reese.

"One attorney asks, 'Why do you love them so much?'" referring to the Marines on trial in the film.

"She turns slowly and answers, 'Because they stand on a wall. And they say no one is going to hurt you tonight. Not on my watch.' She might as well have been describing Hanford Police Officer Stephanie Reese," Mestas said.

All of the speakers thanked the Chamber of Commerce for the opportunity to recognize the recipients.

"This event helps us to honor valuable employees that contribute to make our community a great place," said Kings County Sheriff Chris Jordan.

This year’s 11

nominees included:

• Randy Edmonson, investigator with the Kings County District Attorney’s Office

• Jim Phelan Jr. of the Kings County Fire Department

•Tony Torres, probation officer with Kings County Probation Department

• James W. Lusk, investigator with the Kings County Human Services

Agency Special Investigations Unit

• David Rossman, apparatus engineer with the Hanford Fire Department

• Jeremy Kern, paramedic with American Ambulance

• Jared Lehner, officer with the California Highway Patrol

• Christy Watts, social services worker with Kings County Human Services Agency Child Protective Services Division

• Stephanie Reese, officer with the Hanford Police Department

• Alan Magnone, parole agent with the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation

• Tyrus “Ty” Milton, senior deputy with the Kings County Sheriff’s Office

(Sept. 29, 2007)