WOODLAND >> Thursday, at his third annual Women of the Year event, U.S. Rep. John Garamendi (D-Fairfield) honored 44 women, including Clearlake resident Neickol Cook, who are seen as leaders and inspirations in their communities. The women, from all eight counties in the congressman’s district, have been trailblazers and advocates in community service, business, education, local government and the military.
“This may be my favorite day of the year, because it always replenishes my faith in the selflessness and dedication of my constituents, and it inspires me to look within to see what more I can do to help the people I represent,” Garamendi said. “In every community of this district, down every valley and up every mountain, there are women making a difference. The women we recognized were nominated by their peers, and they come from every walk of life focused on virtually every major issue our diverse district faces.”
Cook is an active member of the Citizens Caring 4 Clearlake, whose mission is to beautify and keep the community free of debris. Founder Barbara Christwitz nominated Cook for her work with this organization, which aims to help residents understand the importance of recycling while improving the environmental health of Clearlake. Cook regularly makes personal efforts to better her community, according to Garamendi’s office.
She helps clean illegal dumpsites throughout the city, encourages school participation in recycling efforts and assists families facing eviction.
During the fires in Lake County, Cook went out of her way to help her fellow residents, the congressman’s office stated. She checked on people impacted by the fires and kept their loved ones apprised of their condition. Cook also helped people evacuate and transport the belongings they were able to salvage.
“Her optimistic spirit is an inspiration to countless Clearlake citizens,” Garamendi said in a letter. “While Lake County suffered great loss due to the fires over the past year, Neickol was a great comfort to her fellow citizens.”
Following the introductory remarks and Congressional Commendation presentations, Garamendi and the women of the year discussed ways Congress and the federal government can do more to improve quality of life in the 3rd District. This conversation touched on increasing the Alzheimer’s budget, devoting more focus to mental health services, alleviating hunger and tackling the homelessness crisis.
“Every topic you’ve brought up touches on many of the priorities of the women in this room. There’s an education piece, a community service piece, a research piece, a private sector piece, and a public sector piece. I want you to keep my office informed about your concerns, because you have your fingers on the pulse of your community,” Garamendi said.
