Believing in Santa, Believing in Each Other — A Beautiful Night in Loma Rica

This weekend, I had the opportunity to attend the Loma Rica Christmas Parade, and I left with a full heart and a renewed appreciation for how special Yuba County truly is.

Standing among families, neighbors, and children bundled up in the winter air, I was reminded that it’s okay—no matter our age—to still believe in Santa. Because believing in Santa is really about believing in joy, hope, and the simple goodness that lives in our communities.

A Moment That Reminded Me Why Community Matters

As kids laughed, waved, and posed for photos with Santa, I saw something powerful: the excitement in their eyes wasn’t just about the lights or the costumes—it was about feeling safe, happy, and surrounded by people who care. Parents smiled. Neighbors talked. Strangers became friends for a moment.

It was a reminder that even during busy and challenging times, our community still knows how to come together and create something meaningful.

One Yuba County, Many Communities

Visiting Loma Rica was also a reminder that while we may live in different districts, we are one Yuba County. Every neighborhood, every town, and every family matters. Leadership isn’t confined to district lines—it’s about understanding the whole county and respecting the unique character of each community within it.

Showing up across Yuba County matters because it builds connection, trust, and shared understanding. When we take the time to be present in each other’s communities, we strengthen the bonds that hold us together.

Holding Onto Hope and Dreaming Forward

Events like the Loma Rica Christmas Parade remind us why community traditions matter. They give us space to slow down, celebrate together, and remember what truly matters—our families, our neighbors, and the shared future we are building.

As we move forward, I carry these moments with me as a reminder of what leadership should always be rooted in: compassion, presence, and a genuine love for the people we serve.

Yuba County is a beautiful place because of its people.

And nights like this remind us that it’s always okay to dream—and to believe.