Opinion
The Lake County Historical Society would like to thank its members and guests who participated in our many events this fall.
On Sept. 19 at the annual Lake County Wine Alliance auction, more than $4,500 was donated towards the completion of the Ely Stage Stop and Museum. Pretty good for one night! We sincerely thank the generous attendees of the event for their donations. It was a marvelous display of support for local history and the community.
Our members beat the heat to decorate the Pear Pavilion at the Kelseyville Pear Festival. The centerpiece of the event was loaded with relics of pear farming in the good old days. Just about everyone who attended the event took a pit stop under the shade of the tent. The folks finding refuge from the sun were treated to displays by Greg Dills, Don McCloud and Rudy Glebe. Much thanks to them and to all who stopped by to have a look.
Thanks also to our volunteers Mike Anderson, Floraine Chalk, Joe and Pat George, KC Patrick, Florence Peck, and Bonnie and Shelly Skee. They all defied nature by exposing themselves to the heat in our booth. Maybe next year we’ll find some more room in the Pear Pavilion …
The same day as the Pear Festival, ECV Chapter Yerba Buena 1 dedicated a plaque at the historic house on the Brassfield Winery and Estate. The ceremony was part of their annual doins and was attended by one of our bravest members, Janeane Bogner.
On Oct. 4 at the general meeting society members and the public were treated to an enlightening presentation on “Indian History of Lake County” by archaeologist Dr. John Parker. Dr. Parker packed the house and we thank him for providing a fascinating presentation. Volunteers were many, and special thanks for their efforts in bringing this terrific event together. Thank you to the many who attended as well.
Also at the meeting, Eileen Rasmussen of Lake County Hospice donated two 1800s-era handmade quilts to the Historical Society. These quilts are made from flour-sacks; in the 1800s flour-sacks were also made into pantaloons, women’s blouses and men’s shirts. The magnificent donation will eventually be displayed at the Ely Stage Stop and Country Museum.
On Oct. 16 and 17, our neighbors to the west in Mendocino County hosted an outstanding occasion. Attending members were immersed in the history of the region during this two-day tour. Food, fun and fascinating history were all part of this wonderfully arranged event, whose highlights included the Grace Hudson Museum, a talk on “Civil War in California” led by Phil Smoley, a tribute at Seabiscuit’s grave and a train ride at the Roots of Motive Power in Willits.
Thanks to Jean Beeson, Bonnie Skee and Florence Peck for their contribution to this event, and a special thanks to Mildred Pickersgill for being a bridge for our historical societies.
The Lake County Historical Society has had a busy fall so far, and the best is yet to come. Members, don’t forget our annual Thanksgiving dinner party! More information to follow.
Jaclyn Ley is publicity director for the Lake County Historical Society.
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- Written by: Jaclyn Ley
My two sons are receiving a solid education and tremendous positive reinforcement at both of these schools. This is such an accomplishment, particularly when our school administrators are being overwhelmed with class and staffing cuts.
My boys and I moved to Lakeport from Southern California. My oldest son’s first day of school in Lakeport was as a CLHS freshman. He had no friends and looked like a sixth grader. When he chose to wear his Elmo shirt on that first day, I died a little on the inside wondering about how in the world this short, goofy kid would ever be accepted into the new social world of high school.
Two and half years later, I can say my worries were unfounded. Fellow students immediately “adopted” him into their social circles, faculty picked up on his talents and nurtured them, and the administration positively responded to any questions and concerns that I had as a new parent to the school system. My youngest son’s experience at the Terrace Middle School has been just as positive.
I volunteer at both schools and have experienced the student population firsthand. Last year, the Terrace Middle School drama students were introduced into the world of high school when they helped usher at the production of “Grease.” I was amazed when, in turn, numerous high school students stepped in to help make sure the middle school drama production was a success.
On the Washington DC field trip, I observed seventh and eighth graders successfully interacting with each other throughout the entire week-long trip. During senior project panels last year, I was humbled by the community service projects undertaken by CLHS students in a quest to help make their world a better place.
This year, during high school football games, I’ve enjoyed watching my two sons socialize with students ranging from seniors to seventh graders. There has been acceptance and respect on the students’ parts, which one might find surprising given the age range. There are so many wonderful teens in our community.
I have also been amazed at the work of parent volunteers. Right now, as a community our biggest concern with our local schools should be how to make sure our kids continue to get an excellent education when school budgets are being slashed left and right. I have seen parent after parent step up to the plate to help ease the pain of those cuts.
My boys and I have had such a positive experience with our local schools. Kudos to those who work so hard to educate our kids during these difficult times.
Jill Ruzicka Leighton lives with her sons in Lakeport.
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- Written by: Jill Ruzicka Leighton
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