Gov. Newsom Honors Two CHP Officers

By Desert Star Staff

February 3, 2023 -Governor Gavin Newsom recognized California Highway Patrol officers Ryan Ayers and Kenneth Weckman for their actions that went above and beyond the call of duty by awarding them with the Governor’s Public Safety Officer Medal of Valor – the highest state award for valor presented to a public safety officer.

“The heroes we honor today are men who showed extraordinary compassion, bravery, and sacrifice,” said Governor Newsom. “Officers Ayers and Weckam are examples of the California spirit, our dedication to each other, and doing the right thing.

I am proud to recognize their heroic efforts and work.”

On August 6, 2021, Officer Ryan Ayers was off duty driving on US 101 in San Luis Obispo, California, when he observed a crash involving a semi-truck which ran off the road. Officer Ayers climbed the hillside to access the truck’s cab and found the driver unconscious. As the vehicle began to fill with smoke, Officer Ayers, without regard for his own safety, cleared debris to access the driver.

Officer Ayers safely removed the driver seconds before the vehicle became fully engulfed in flames.

On December 6, 2021, Officer Kenneth Weckman was dispatched to a vehicle blocking the roadway in Marysville, California. As Officer Weckman investigated the abandoned car, he found a woman in crisis in a canal, attempting to smother a small child in the dirt and water. Officer Weckman immediately tried to rescue the child from the woman, as she violently resisted. After a struggle, Officer Weckman saved the child from the muddy waters. With the assistance of other officers who arrived on the scene, the woman was safely taken into custody.

“Officer Ayers’ and Officer Weckman’s heroic actions undoubtedly saved the lives of these individuals,” said Acting Commissioner Sean Duryee. “Their bravery, character, professionalism, and willingness to serve with such extraordinary valor exemplify their commitment to the communities they serve.”

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The talks were so interesting. So many had the audience laughing with their stories. People learned a lot from these intelligent authors and moderators. A day of learning and laughing is a day well spent.

THURSDAY

The list of authors was so interesting. I listened to a part of the interview with DONNA BRAZILE and MAUREEN DOWD. I thought the topic would be politics, but it was mainly about women in the media and how hard it was for them to reach their goals.

BRAZILE said she wrote for her school paper. She was always a bit controversial and outspoken. It has served her well as a political analyst and well-known TV personality. She mentioned that the moderator JUDY WOODRUFF was a big help when she started her journalistic journey. DOWD spoke about her career and women’s role in media. As a woman photographer years ago who was always intimidated by security, I can understand.

Thursday also brought Attorney ALAN DERSHOWITZ to the stage, with CBS analyst

RIKKI KLIEMAN moderating.

DERSHOWITZ spoke about his most infamous trials and when he was part of the Dream Team at the O. J. SIMPSON murder trial. Others included Jim Bakker, Mike Tyson, and Patty Hearst, to name just a few. So interesting. TOMMY

ORANGE is a Native American writer who made the best-seller list. His book chronicles Native American people who did not realize they were connected at a POWWOW. He wrote about experiences he had as a child.

FRIDAY Actor DAVID DUCHOVNY was interviewed about his new book. He is also a songwriter, poet, musician, and actor. I asked him what instrument he played, and he said the guitar and was a bit unhappy it was not the piano too. He said he started songwriting when he had some extra time on his hands. I asked if his poetry was ever published, and he said no, but it might be a good idea to do that.

Author FRAN LEBOWITZ

was interviewed by JEFFREY BROWN, who signed her book for many of her fans. Everyday fan lined up to get their books autographed after the talks.

The final author of the Festival was Congressman ADAM SCHIFF, who was on stage with PETER BAKER and SUSAN GLASSER. I asked him if he was looking forward to the next election, where he had announced his candidacy for the FEINSTEIN office if she retires. He said he doesn’t know if she will retire but is looking forward to others vying for the office. He said it would depend on a viable Republican contender as well. He was waiting to see who all would announce they would run for this office if and when FEINSTEIN retires. Time will tell, as it’s still early. Thanks to Writers Festival Founder Jamie Kabler, his founding Angels, and the many Platinum, Gold, and Silver Angel donors. They have made this festival one of the best in the U.S. The 2024 Festival will be held from January 31 to February 2.