Steven Kuykendall: “Today I recognize the 150th anniversary of California's statehood. On September 9, 1850, California was admitted to the…”

“Today I recognize the 150th anniversary of California's statehood. On September 9, 1850, California was admitted to the Union as the nation's 31st state. Much has changed over the last 150 years, but California still remains one of the world's natural treasures. At the time of California's entry into the Union, the population for Los Angeles numbered 3,530. As Los Angeles developed and expanded, so did the South Bay. I am proud that the natural beauty of the South Bay remained unchanged over the last 150 years. The shoreline is our livelihood, as California is the gateway to the West. We are rich in cultural diversity with a population of all races and creeds from throughout the world. California's natural resources are numerous, with some of the most breathtaking landscape in the world. From agriculture to e-commerce, we are a leader in all areas of business. California's 150 years as a state embody the American experience, one of the growth and vision. I congratulate all Californians on this milestone. We have much to celebrate. The state of California is a model to the nation. I hope the next 150 years are as dynamic as the first 150.”