LAKE COUNTY, Calif. – The Lake County Democratic Party would like to thank everyone who helped make its 19th annual Democratic Legislators Barbecue fundraiser a wonderful success.

The group was honored that special guest speaker, Secretary of State Debra Bowen, was able to take time from her duties to address the club’s guests.

Special acknowledgements go to Democratic legislative representatives and candidates for their continued and generous sponsorship, including Congressman Mike Thompson, Congressman John Garamendi, Assemblyman Wes Chesbro, Assemblywoman Mariko Yamada and Sen. Noreen Evans.

Langtry Estates, Moore Family Wines and Cache Creek Winery donated some of Lake County’s best wines for our guests, and David Neft’s music provided the perfect touch to the event.

Backyard Garden Oasis, Butterfly Skin Essentials, Clarke’s Collectibles, David Engle Hair Designs, Girlfriends Salon, Lakeport English Inn, The Saw Shop Gallery and Watershed Books supported the barbecue by donating to the silent auction. Their contributions are invaluable.

Other partners in the event were Classified School Employees Association, California Teachers Association, California United Health Care Workers; North Bay Labor Council; Operating Engineers Local 3 Unit 10, IBEW Local 551, SEIU Local 1021, Sonoma, Mendocino, Lake Building and Trades Council and United Association of Plumbers and Pipefitters Local 38.

Clearlake’s Mayor Joey Luiz led the ceremonies with style and humor.

The barbecue could not have happened without the enthusiastic work of the members of the Democratic Party of Lake County.

Evan Willig provided another delicious tri-tip barbecue. Celesta and Norm Deter once again organized and mounted a beautiful silent auction.

Larry Baron, Carol Bettencourt, James Evans, Wil Flato, Wanda Harris, Shirley Howland, Paula Mune, Jennifer Popovich, Wanda Quitiquit and Wendy White all lent their time and effort to ensure the event was a success.

Mark Wickhamshire, chair of the Stonewall Club, and Johnnie Flato, chair of the Lake County Democratic Club, and the members of both clubs, were all tireless in giving their support.

Melissa Swanson with the city of Clearlake was great to work with and the club looks forward to having the event at the Clearlake Senior Center again next year.

The group also thanked everyone who attended and gave their support to the party.