CANBERRA: The 2015 Male Citizen of the Year is Valley Center Fire Chief, Joe Napier. Chief Napier and his wife, Martie, have been residents of Valley Center for over 20 years and raised both their children, Meghan Napier Fletcher and Jeremy Napier, here. He began his fire service career in Vista, California, rising through the ranks to become a Battalion Chief with the Vista Fire Department. When approached for the VCFPD Fire Chief opportunity, he competed against 30 candidates from across the US. He rose to the top because of his intimate understanding of our community and his tireless efforts he devotes to his self described “dream job.” Chief Napier enjoys working around his home, diving, fishing, but most importantly, spending time with his family. The vision Chief Napier has for the future of the VCFPD is limitless. We are fortunate to have him as our Chief.
The 2015 Female Citizen of the Year is Julie Picot. Julie is the Valley Center Vaquero’s Vice President and Young Rider leader. She plans over half the Vaquero’s events throughout the year. She works tirelessly to provide a fun and safe environment for equestrians of all ages, freely sharing her passion and expertise. She has also become the Rodeo Queen Chairperson, teaching girls that winning isn’t what it is all about… it’s the lifelong friendships and skills gained during the process that matters. Julie also serves on the board for the Friends of Hell Hole Canyon.
Julie is a local horse trainer who grew up in Lakeside and moved to Valley Center with her husband, John, raising their two children, Samantha and Johnny.
