Club honors Santa Cruz firefighter, police officer
In recognition of service and dedication to the city of Santa Cruz, the Surf City Exchange Club of Santa Cruz recognized a Santa Cruz police officer and firefighter during the Blue and Gold Ceremony on Friday at the Portuguese Hall at Harvey West Park.
This year's honorees are firefighter Clayton Ogden and officer Eileen Fincutter.
Fincutter, an officer since 2009, works with the Alcohol Enforcement Unit of the Santa Cruz Police Department and has earned recognition for the arrests she's made to stem drunk driving. Fincutter has also assists with outreach programs, including mentoring at-risk youths and working as an instructor for teens interested in careers in law enforcement.
Ogden is a 15-year veteran with the fire department. His career began in 1988 with the Merced County Fire Department.
He pursued the career, earning certifications as a firefighter and an emergency medical technician. He attended and graduated from paramedic school at Merced College.
While Ogden joined Santa Cruz fire in 1999 as a paramedic and firefighter, his resume also boasts stints in Fresno County, Stanislaus County, San Benito County and Yosemite National Park.