Sen. Dodd: Rhonda Morningstar Pope Flores is Yolo Woman of the Year

WEST SACRAMENTO – Rhonda Morningstar Pope Flores, chair of the Buena Vista Rancheria of Me-Wuk Indians, has played a central role in improving services for Native Americans and residents of West Sacramento, most recently opening the Bryte and Broderick Community Center. For her many community contributions, she has been named Yolo County Woman of the Year by Sen. Bill Dodd, D-Napa.

“Rhonda has dedicated her life to empowering Native Americans and preserving cultural traditions,” Sen. Dodd said. “Through perseverance and commitment, she’s now provided this vital resource for West Sacramento, which will greatly assist our youth and seniors, among others. I am honored to know her and to present her with this well-earned recognition.”

“Knowing where you make the greatest impact is important, but even more important are the seeds you plant to see those impacts grow in positive ways that benefit future generations,” Chair Pope Flores said. “I thank Sen. Dodd for the honor to receive this recognition.”

Rhonda Morningstar Pope Flores, who grew up in West Sacramento, was first elected leader of the Amador County tribe in 2004.  She formed the Jesse Flyingcloud Pope Foundation in 2007 in honor of her father. Resources from the foundation are used to support charitable programs designed to assist local community members and offer educational opportunities, specifically promoting and enhancing Tribal traditions, cultural awareness and community support. 

In March 2008, Chair Pope Flores opened Little Big Time Child Development Center, which serves low-income Native American families and embraces Native American culture within everyday curriculum. She developed plans for the construction of Upusani Cultural Center which was completed in 2016. In 2018 she secured financing for construction of Harrah’s Northern California casino.

To give back to her hometown, Bryte and Broderick Community Center opened in West Sacramento earlier this year. The Lisbon Avenue facility is a community hub for events and services.

Rhonda is also an active participant in many local community events. She is a supporter of the annual Native American Indian Day at the California State Capitol. She followed in the footsteps of her great-grandparents – the original leaders of the tribe -- in establishing a variety of community events, including an annual Elders Dinner, which emphasizes the honor and respect of elders. She also hosts an annual Children’s Christmas Event for Native American children of needy families, and/or in foster care. Chair Pope’s passion is promoting and strengthening culture through outreach programs and sponsorships.

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Senator Bill Dodd represents the 3rd Senate District, which includes all or portions of Napa, Solano, Yolo, Sonoma, Contra Costa, and Sacramento counties. You can learn more about the district and Senator Dodd at www.sen.ca.gov/dodd.