In a moving ceremony held during Mayor Kevin Lincoln's annual State of the City address, ten distinguished residents of Stockton were awarded keys to the city in recognition of their exceptional contributions to the community.
Georgia Brownlee, a longtime advocate for the Sierra Vista neighborhood, received her key from Mayor Lincoln himself. For over two decades, Brownlee has been a beacon of hope and support in south Stockton, organizing numerous community service activities, including backpack drives and vaccine clinics, to ensure the wellbeing of local families.
Vice Mayor Kimberly Warmsley honored Geneva Haynes, a dedicated social worker and the executive director of Mary Magdalene Community Services. Haynes has been instrumental in advancing social justice and public health initiatives, significantly impacting mental health services through her work with the Mental Health Services Act.
In response to a local nursing shortage, Dr. Anitra Williams, Lisa Lucchesi, and Julie Kay founded the HOPE Program, which was recognized by Councilwoman Michele Padilla. Their initiative has enabled over 100 nursing students to graduate and serve in local healthcare facilities, thus addressing the critical need for medical professionals in Stockton.
Among others celebrated were Priscilla Wyatt, a veteran educator; Jill Antonini, founder of the nonprofit Animal Protection League; Mary-Elizabeth Eberhardt, vice president of Bank of Stockton and chair of University of the Pacific’s Board of Regents; and Pandora Crowder, president of the Conway Homes Resident Council.
In a particularly poignant moment of the ceremony, Juan Heredia was honored as the "city council hero" for his extraordinary bravery and selflessness. Heredia, a local scuba diving instructor, volunteered to search for 15-year-old Xavier Martinez, who tragically went missing in the Calaveras River earlier this year. Despite extensive efforts by the San Joaquin County Sheriff's Department, Martinez's whereabouts remained undiscovered until Heredia intervened. Remarkably, within just 30 minutes of beginning his dive, Heredia located Martinez’s body, bringing much-needed closure to the teen's family.
Mayor Kevin Lincoln, visibly moved during the ceremony, praised Heredia's heroism, stating, "Juan, you are a true hero to everyone in this city. Your actions were selfless, courageous, and without hesitation. You are the definition of a good samaritan." The audience, nearly 900 strong, responded with a standing ovation, reflecting the community’s deep appreciation for Heredia’s decisive action in such a heartbreaking situation. This special recognition underscored the profound impact of individual acts of courage and the community's collective support in times of crisis.
The ceremony highlighted the spirit of community and selflessness that defines Stockton, showcasing individuals who have gone above and beyond to make a significant difference in the lives of their fellow citizens.