LAKEPORT – The May packing party for Operation Tango Mike brought a great surprise as Greg Stolesen, president of the Lakeport Lions, presented a check for $1,100.

The Lions accepted the challenge issued when the Clearlake Rotary donated $1,000 and suggested other service organizations match their support of Operation Tango Mike.

A large group of people was busy selecting items and carefully packing for the troops.

Among the packers were the grandmother and sister of Sergeant First Class David Hartman, who was killed in action in February.

 

 

 

 

 

 

The ladies presented a beautiful patriotic bouquet as the family’s token of gratitude for the support received during the difficult time following David’s death. The Hartman family has become involved in Operation Tango Mike in their effort to support troops and military families.

The April packing party was also filled with great excitement as Sergeant Joan Sylva, home for R&R, made a surprise visit.

SGT Sylva introduced herself and thanked everyone for the care packages, including the correspondence and her favorite treat – Fruit Snax Energy Bars. The bars had been donated by NutriBiotic of Lakeport.

SGT Sylva saw the bars waiting to be packed and said, “Those bars are really good. I’m not just saying that, I love getting them!”

The sergeant took time to visit with packers, answer questions and to receive many hugs, handshakes and expressions of gratitude. Before leaving, SGT Sylva said she was both amazed by and grateful for all the Lake County community has done for her and other soldiers via Operation Tango Mike.

 

 

 

 

 

 

In the ongoing effort to support deployed troops, there will be a very special fundraiser just in time to jump start Memorial Weekend.

A salute to the troops, “Full Moon Blues & Wine” will take place on Thursday, May 27, at the Kelseyville Wine Company and Olive Mill from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m.

Get your groove on with two great bands, Side of Blues and Twice as Good.

Event tickets are $20 and BBQ dinner tickets are $10. Barbecue tickets must be purchased by May 25. Call to reserve your tickets at 707-279-2995. The event is rain or shine with plenty of covered area available!

Packing parties are held the third Thursday of each month at 6 p.m. at Umpqua Bank, 805 11th St., Lakeport and everyone is welcome.

For further information regarding Operation Tango Mike please call 707-349-2838 or e-mail This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..