[Congressional Record Volume 171, Number 124 (Monday, July 21, 2025)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E696]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                         HONORING BONNIE SEARS

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. MIKE THOMPSON

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                         Monday, July 21, 2025

  Mr. THOMPSON of California. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Bonnie 
Sears, an esteemed member of the Lake County agricultural community. 
Mrs. Sears' leadership and dedication to Lake County's wine grape 
industry exemplify why she has been named as a Friend of the Farm 
Bureau.
  Mrs. Sears, office manager for Beckstoffer Vineyards, Red Hills, has 
worked for various agriculture-related businesses, including Snows Lake 
Vineyard, where she was involved in multiple aspects of the winegrowing 
business. Previously she was employed by a fruit importer in 
Kelseyville.
  Mrs. Sears and her family moved to Lake County in 1987. She served 
two years on the board of the Lake County Winery Association and was on 
the Wine Adventure committee for several years. She has also been 
involved with the Lake County Chapter of California Women for 
Agriculture. In 2010, she decided she wanted to know more about the 
business of growing grapes and began her pursuit of a certificate in 
viticulture with Vesta, an online viticulture program.
  As a longtime member of the Lake County Winegrape Commission board, 
Mrs. Sears has been instrumental in advocating for growers, advancing 
sustainable practices, and fostering collaboration across the region's 
vineyards. Her professional expertise and passion for viticulture have 
helped elevate Lake County's reputation as a premier wine grape growing 
region, benefiting farmers and businesses alike. Beyond her industry 
contributions, Mrs. Sears' commitment to community service and 
partnership with the Farm Bureau exemplify the spirit of cooperation 
that drives Lake County agriculture forward.
  Mr. Speaker, it is fitting and proper that we honor Bonnie Sears for 
her service, leadership, and dedication to California's 4th District.

                          ____________________