At Wine Country to the Rescue, we take pride in celebrating the individuals and organizations that go above and beyond to support fire prevention and emergency response in Northern Sonoma County. In 2019, we were honored to recognize Danielle Matthews Seperas and Jim Kluesner from Calpine Corporation as our Honorary Firefighters of the Year for their incredible partnership, support, and dedication to the safety of our community.
Champions in the Geysers
Calpine’s geothermal fields in the Geysers are a critical part of Sonoma County’s landscape—and also one of its most wildfire-prone areas. For decades, Calpine has faced the challenges of catastrophic wildfires head-on, partnering with first responders to protect the area and mitigate fire risks.
Danielle Matthews Seperas and Jim Kluesner have been at the forefront of this effort. Their leadership and collaboration have strengthened the relationship between Calpine and the Northern Sonoma County Fire Protection District, ensuring that both organizations work together seamlessly to prepare for and respond to wildfires.
Going Above and Beyond
As part of the Calpine team, Danielle and Jim embody the values of community partnership and proactive safety. Their contributions include:
Fire Prevention Initiatives: Calpine has consistently invested in vegetation management and firebreak projects to protect the Geysers and surrounding communities. Danielle and Jim have played key roles in these efforts, ensuring that safety remains a top priority.
Unwavering Support: From providing critical resources to facilitating training opportunities, Danielle and Jim have shown unwavering support for Northern Sonoma County Fire and Wine Country to the Rescue.
Emergency Response Collaboration: During wildfire incidents, Danielle and Jim have worked tirelessly with local firefighters, offering expertise, resources, and on-the-ground assistance to keep the community safe.
Dedicated Partners
Danielle Matthews Seperas, known for her strong leadership and commitment to community engagement, has been a driving force in building and maintaining Calpine’s partnership with the fire district. Her efforts have ensured that Calpine not only protects its geothermal operations but also contributes to the broader safety of Northern Sonoma County.
Jim Kluesner’s technical expertise and dedication to safety have been equally invaluable. As a trusted leader at Calpine, Jim’s hands-on approach and collaboration with firefighters have made a tangible difference in wildfire prevention and response efforts.
A Lasting Impact
The partnership between Calpine and Northern Sonoma County Fire exemplifies what can be achieved when organizations and individuals come together for the greater good. Danielle and Jim’s support of Wine Country to the Rescue underscores their commitment to strengthening our community’s resilience.
By recognizing Danielle and Jim as the 2019 Honorary Firefighters, we celebrate their dedication to protecting lives, property, and the unique beauty of the Geysers and surrounding areas.
Thank You, Danielle and Jim
To Danielle Matthews Seperas and Jim Kluesner: Thank you for your leadership, partnership, and unwavering support. Your efforts have made Northern Sonoma County safer and stronger, and your recognition as Honorary Firefighters is a reflection of the immense gratitude we have for everything you do.
Join us in celebrating Danielle and Jim, and the incredible collaboration between Calpine and Northern Sonoma County Fire, at Wine Country to the Rescue. Together, we’re building a safer future for everyone.
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