PRINCETON, CA (MPG) – In describing the potential of society’s power for good, Coretta Scott King once remarked that, “The greatness of a community is most accurately measured by the compassionate actions of its members.”
And while King was far removed from the small towns in Colusa and Glenn counties, her sentiment was perfectly displayed last Saturday evening at Farmer’s Brewing Company, when a standing room only crowd gathered for a tribute to Officer Natalie Corona, whose watch came to a tragic end in Davis on Jan. 10, 2019.
What connects Farmer’s and the five-year anniversary of Corona’s death is the local company’s newest IPA, Back the Blue India Pale Ale, which was crafted in memory of the Arbuckle native.
Born from conversations between Farmer’s owners Bill and Kristin Weller and Corona’s parents Merced and Lupe, the result was not just another spectacular beer, but more significantly a way to carry forward Natalie’s legacy of goodwill and compassion, as proceeds go to the memorial fund created in her name, which is used for scholarships, law enforcement donations, and support of other non-profits.
For the Wellers, who actively support many local causes, it was an extension of the idea of strengthening community by giving back.
“Merced approached us with the idea a couple years ago,” Bill Weller said. “But with the building of our new taproom in Chico, we weren’t quite ready. With that completed, we were finally able to get it done and are very happy it all worked out.”
And that it did, with people from all over the North State making their way to Princeton to honor Natalie’s memory, show their support for the Corona Family, and, in the process, get a taste of the purple-blue hued IPA that is a nod to law enforcement.
The success of the venture was a humbling moment for Lupe and Merced Corona, who mingled among the crowd that included people from all aspects of their lives.
“This is an amazing turnout,” said Lupe. “One of Natalie’s professors from Woodland Community College is here and some of her classmates from the Academy are coming. Of course, our family is all here and so are Merced’s former colleagues from the sheriff’s department. It’s emotional, but at the same time, what makes it so special is that we are able to keep Natalie’s memory alive and benefit other causes in the process.”
It was a similar response from Merced, who said his family could not express enough gratitude for the outpouring of comfort and encouragement they have received.
“It is wonderful that the Wellers and their staff are sponsoring this event not only for my daughter Natalie, but to honor all our men and women in law enforcement,” said the former sheriff’s deputy. “Over the years, so many people across the country have shown support for our family and Natalie, and each and every time it touches our hearts.”
In all, the event was testimony to the fact that despite being small in number, the communities of Colusa and Glenn counties have generous hearts and will unfailingly offer their support for a good cause.
For those unable to attend the event, contributions can be made to the Natalie Corona Memorial Account and mailed to PO Box 782 Arbuckle, CA 95912.