Tuesday, 26 November 2024

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LAKEPORT, Calif. — The pandemic canceled the Lake County Fair in 2020, but on Thursday it returned for another year, and Public Health is using the event to raise awareness, offer vaccinations and guidance on staying healthy.

Between now and Sunday, many thousands of people per day will stream through the fairgrounds, and Public Health officials said they want people to safely enjoy this important event.

The county of Lake and OPTUM are partnering to provide a mobile vaccination van on-site, each day of this year’s Lake County Fair.

Dr. Gary Pace, the county’s former Public Health officer who continues to assist on matters related to COVID-19, was on hand with staff in front of the fair on the opening night on Thursday evening to offer free COVID-19 vaccinations.

Lake County residents that get newly vaccinated against COVID-19 earn free admission to the Fair.

The vaccination van will be set up near the front fairgrounds gate from noon to 9 p.m. Friday, and 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Saturday and Sunday.

While getting vaccinated between now and Sunday will not offer protection while you are at the Fair, Public Health said it will significantly limit the likelihood you will have severe complications, should you be exposed to COVID in the future.

Looking ahead to what will be another fall and winter where people will wonder whether their runny nose is due to a cold or COVID, you will want to ensure you are protected, officials reported.

“The evidence is clear: for almost everyone, getting vaccinated is safe, and offers significant protection against severe illness and death. If you have concerns, simply waiting does nothing to limit your risk. Talk to your doctor today, and get your questions answered,” Pace said in a Thursday statement.

If you attend the fair, masking, even while outdoors, is strongly recommended. Physical distancing should additionally be practiced whenever possible. Wash or sanitize your hands frequently; think about this before using your hands to eat, for example, and if you have come in physical contact with other people.

Particularly if you are unvaccinated and/or have other significant medical conditions or other factors that impair your immune system and general health, you will want to strongly consider the risks associated with being around thousands of people from other households. Attending the fair may not be the right choice for everyone this year, in light of COVID-19, Public Health said.

Though many activities have resumed, COVID-19 remains highly prevalent in Lake County communities.

The most recent case rate reported by the state for Lake County is 43.6, more than four times the expanded Purple Tier threshold used in the latter phases of the State’s “Blueprint for a Safer Economy” framework.

“We have now lost 77 residents to COVID-related illness, and 14 since July 1 — just after the Delta Variant was identified in Lake County. Unvaccinated individuals were seven times more likely to contract COVID-19 in Lake County in the period from Aug. 1 to 15. The vast majority of those recently hospitalized with severe complications have also been unvaccinated,” Public Health reported.

While enjoying the Fair between now and Sunday, please take care. Other Northern California counties have attributed increases in cases and hospitalization to large events since the state’s reopening, including fairs.

Frequently asked questions and further opportunities to get vaccinated in Lake County are also available here. If mobility issues or other barriers are keeping you from getting vaccinated, call 707-263-8174.
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LAKE COUNTY, Calif. — September is National Suicide Prevention Awareness Month, and Lake County Behavioral Health Services invites you to help spread awareness of what is a leading cause of death in the United States, and ensure we all know how to discuss suicide and help our loved ones in need.

Since the pandemic started, people seem to have become increasingly comfortable talking about their mental health.

Yet, the topic of suicide — when it comes up — is still scary to think about.

Some may fear that checking in with someone they suspect is having suicidal thoughts might put the idea in their head, or even push the individual to take their life.

Those who want to help may also worry they won’t know what to say or do if the person says, “Yes, I am thinking about suicide.”

We can all help prevent suicide.

“Suicidal ideation, although common, should not be considered normal, and can point to more serious mental health issues,” said Todd Metcalf, director of Lake County Behavioral Health Services.

Each one of us must consider our mental health. Especially during these unusual and challenging times, it’s important to take a deeper look into what someone may be experiencing, and seek help together.

As we learn more about the causes of suicide and the ways people can help prevent it, and what resources are out there, we can empower our communities to appropriately respond.

There are many simple activities one can do to encourage wellness and reduce stress during difficult times.

Do what works, and do not be afraid to try something new.

Here are some self-care activities one can practice to help focus on well-being:

· Set goals each day and create a daily routine;
· Develop a gratitude list;
· Express feelings;
· Get plenty of sleep and rest;
· Ask for help;
· Watch a favorite show or movie;
· Create a safe and comfortable living space.

Please join Lake County Behavioral Health Services in helping to raise public awareness of this stigmatized and often taboo subject.

Suicide can stem from untreated mental health conditions, and help is available, right here in Lake County.

For more information, please contact Lake County Behavioral Health Services at 707-274-9101 or 707-994-7090.

If in crisis, please call 800-900-2075 or the National Suicide Prevention Hotline at 800-273-TALK (8255).
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LAKE COUNTY, Calif. — The Labor Day weekend is approaching, and many Californians are preparing to close out the summer with a road trip.

In anticipation of the increased traffic that often accompanies a holiday weekend, the California Highway Patrol will implement a maximum enforcement period, or MEP.

The holiday enforcement effort begins Friday, Sept. 3, at 6:01 p.m., and continues through 11:59 p.m. Monday, Sept. 6.

To help keep motorists safe, officers will focus on removing impaired drivers from the road.

Impairment can be caused by more than just alcohol — it also comes from cannabis, illicit drugs, and prescription drugs, or a combination of any of these.

Traffic safety efforts by the CHP during the 2020 Labor Day MEP resulted in more than 900 arrests for driving under the influence.

The CHP said 46 people died in crashes throughout California that weekend — many of whom were not wearing a seat belt.

“Our officers are dedicated to making the roadways safe for all who use them,” said CHP Commissioner Amanda Ray. “Driving sober or designating a sober driver is the responsible choice to keep you, your passengers and other motorists safe.”

All CHP officers and sergeants have received additional training on detecting impaired drivers.

California also has the nation’s highest number of Drug Recognition Experts, or DREs, who are officers specifically trained to identify drug impairment.

During the upcoming holiday weekend, DREs will be on duty throughout the state.

If you suspect that a driver is impaired, keep your distance and call 911. Be prepared to provide the dispatcher with a complete description of the vehicle, license plate number, location and direction of travel. The CHP said that such telephone calls may save someone’s life.
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CLEARLAKE, Calif. — Clearlake Animal Control continues to have a full house of big dogs waiting for homes.

The City of Clearlake Animal Association also is seeking fosters for the animals waiting to be adopted.

Another way to help is through donations. A wish list has been posted at Amazon and on Chewy. For those who wish to shop local and drop off items, call 707-273-9440 to schedule a delivery or donate at the association’s Facebook page.

Here are this week’s adoptable dogs.

The newest dog is at the top.

“Sammy.” Photo courtesy of Clearlake Animal Control.

‘Sammy’

“Sammy” is a female American pit bull mix with a short black and white coat.

She is dog No. 5143.

“Bear.” Photo courtesy of Clearlake Animal Control.

‘Bear’

“Bear” is a male American Staffordshire terrier mix with a short brown coat.

He has been neutered.

He is dog No. 3476.

“Blue Eyed Jack.” Photo courtesy of Clearlake Animal Control.

‘Blue Eyed Jack’

“Blue Eyed Jack” is a male German shepherd mix.

He is dog No. 5046.

“Mara.” Photo courtesy of Clearlake Animal Control.

‘Mara’

“Mara” is a female Rottweiler mix.

She has a short black and tan coat.

He is house-trained.

She is dog No. 4628.

“Mary J.” Photo courtesy of Clearlake Animal Control.

‘Mary J’

“Mary J” is a female pit bull terrier mix.

She has a white and tan coat.

She is house-trained.

She is dog No. 4927.

“Mitzy.” Photo courtesy of Clearlake Animal Control.

‘Mitzy’

“Mitzy” is a female shepherd mix with a medium-length black and white coat.

She is dog No. 4648.

“Petey.” Photo courtesy of Clearlake Animal Control.

‘Petey’

“Petey” is a male American Staffordshire terrier mix with a black and white coat.

He is dog No. 4963.

“Sassy.” Photo courtesy of Clearlake Animal Control.

‘Sassy’

“Sassy” is a female American bully mix with a short black coat.

She has been spayed.

She is dog No. 4602.

“Sissy.” Photo courtesy of Clearlake Animal Control.

‘Sissy’

“Sissy” is a female American Staffordshire terrier mix with a black coat.

She is dog No. 4964.

“Tanisha.” Photo courtesy of Clearlake Animal Control.

‘Tanisha’

“Tanisha” is a female shepherd mix with a short orange and white coat.

She is dog No. 4647.

“Terry.” Photo courtesy of Clearlake Animal Control.

‘Terry’

“Terry” is a male Dutch shepherd mix with a smooth brindle coat.

He is dog No. 4880.

“Yule.” Photo courtesy of Clearlake Animal Control.

‘Yule’

“Yule” is a male husky with a medium-length black and white coat.

He is dog No. 4432.

Call the Clearlake Animal Control shelter at 707-273-9440, or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. to inquire about adoptions and schedule a visit to the shelter.

Visit Clearlake Animal Control on Facebook or on the city’s website.

Email Elizabeth Larson at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. Follow her on Twitter, @ERLarson, or Lake County News, @LakeCoNews.
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Quagga mussels clogging a pipe. Photo courtesy of the California Department of Fish and Wildlife.

California agencies combating the spread of invasive quagga and zebra mussels are reminding boaters to remain cautious over Labor Day weekend.

Quagga and zebra mussels are invasive freshwater mussels native to Europe and Asia.

They multiply quickly, encrust watercraft and infrastructure, alter water quality and the aquatic food web and ultimately impact native and sport fish communities.

These mussels spread from one waterbody to another by attaching to watercraft, equipment and nearly anything that has been in an infested waterbody.

To prevent the spread of these mussels and other aquatic invasive species, people launching vessels at any waterbody are subject to watercraft inspections and are strongly encouraged to clean, drain and dry their motorized and non-motorized boats, including personal watercraft, and any equipment that contacts the water before and after use.

“Adult quagga mussels were discovered in Castaic Lake in Los Angeles County in August 2021. This detection is a reminder of how important it is to clean, drain, and dry your watercraft and equipment after every use to avoid spreading invasive species and help conserve California’s irreplaceable plant, fish and wildlife resources,” said California Department of Fish and Wildlife Invasive Species Program Manager Martha Volkoff.

Take the following steps both before traveling to and before leaving a waterbody to prevent spreading invasive mussels, improve the efficiency of your inspection experience, and safeguard California waterways:

Clean: Inspect exposed surfaces and remove all plants and organisms.
Drain: All water, including water contained in lower outboard units, live-wells and bait buckets; and
Dry: Allow the watercraft to thoroughly dry between launches. Watercraft should be kept dry for at least five days in warm weather and up to 30 days in cool weather.

CDFW has developed a brief video demonstrating the ease of implementing the clean, drain and dry prevention method. Additional information is available on the Division of Boating and Waterways website.


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Gov. Gavin Newsom visited a vaccination clinic in Oakland on Tuesday to promote vaccinations as more than 80% of eligible Californians 12 and older have received at least one dose of the COVID-19 vaccine.

Underscoring the FDA’s full approval last week of the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine for those 16 and older last week, Newsom encouraged unvaccinated Californians to take action to protect themselves and their communities from the Delta variant and do their part to help bring an end to the pandemic by getting vaccinated.

“Getting vaccinated is the key to protecting against COVID-19 and the faster-spreading Delta variant — it’s how we end this thing.” said Newsom. “California has put more shots in arms than any other state. We’ve made incredible progress vaccinating our population in a remarkably short amount of time, and our work continues to close the gap in our most impacted communities.”

California has implemented first-in-the-nation vaccine verification or testing requirements for state workers and school staff, and vaccination requirements for workers in health care settings.

Since first implementing these measures, the state has seen significant progress, with five straight weeks of more than 500,000 vaccines administered.

Last week, California administered over 643,000 vaccinations, marking a 44.7% increase compared to mid-July.

The state continues to lead the nation with 48 million doses of COVID-19 vaccine administered.

California is also encouraging private businesses and local governments across the state to follow the state’s lead and adopt vaccine verification systems for their employees, a move that has been followed by some of the state’s largest public and private employers.

State officials said the vaccination push will allow business owners to worry less about closing their doors due to a COVID-19 outbreak and promote the state’s ongoing economic recovery.

Gov. Newsom on Tuesday also released his latest "On the Record" ethnic media column emphasizing the urgent imperative for unvaccinated individuals to step up and get the shot amid an increase in infections and hospitalizations driven by the Delta variant.

The column, which has been translated into eight additional languages and will be published online and in print by various ethnic media outlets, underscores the safety and efficacy of the lifesaving vaccines and highlights the state’s efforts to address vaccine hesitancy and increase access.

“Unfortunately, many of our most vulnerable communities where we are seeing low vaccination rates are targets of disinformation campaigns, which continue to put lives at risk, including our youngest children who are not yet eligible to receive the COVID-19 vaccine,” Newsom wrote in the column. “Working with ethnic media, faith-based and community-based organizations, and many unique partners who are trusted messengers has been crucial to dispelling some of the most prevalent myths out there. It’s time to fully embrace the facts that prove vaccines work, are safe, and are free — regardless of immigration status.”

California’s targeted outreach in hard-to-reach communities has included multimedia and multicultural public education campaigns, “Get Out the Vaccine” door-knocking efforts and supporting community and business partnerships for direct outreach and assistance.

The column also notes programs and resources available to Californians struggling with pandemic impacts, including rent relief and the Golden State Stimulus, with a second round of payments being distributed for direct relief to Californians.

Recent measures by California to encourage vaccination and slow the spread of COVID-19 include:

— Vaccine verification for state workers. Requires that all state workers either show proof of full vaccination or be tested at least once per week, and encourages local governments and other employers to adopt a similar protocol. Following California’s announcement, some of the largest California businesses and local governments followed suit, as did the federal government.

— Vaccinations for health care workers. Requires workers in health care settings to be fully vaccinated or receive their second dose by Sept. 30, 2021.

— Vaccine verification for all school staff. Requires that all school staff either show proof of full vaccination or be tested at least once per week. California is the first state in the nation to require all school staff, including at public and private schools, to verify vaccination status or get tested. Education and labor leaders across the state welcomed the announcement.

— Universal masking in K-12 settings. Aligned with guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and American Academy of Pediatrics, California was the first state to implement universal masking in school settings to keep students and staff safer while optimizing fully in-person instruction.

— Medi-Cal vaccination incentives. $350 million in incentive payments to help close the vaccination gap between Medi-Cal beneficiaries and Californians as a whole, significantly stepping up outreach in underserved communities.

— Statewide mask recommendation. In response to the spike in COVID-19 hospitalizations and new CDC guidance calling for masking, the state recommended mask use for indoor public settings regardless of vaccination status.
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Clearlake Police officers and firefighters work at the scene of a fatal vehicle crash involving a pedestrian on the night of Wednesday, September 1, 2021. Photo courtesy of Clearlake Police Chief Andrew White.

LAKE COUNTY, Calif. — The Clearlake Police Department said a pedestrian died on Wednesday night after he was struck by a vehicle.

The crash occurred shortly before 8:45 p.m. at Highway 53 and Dam Road, according to radio traffic.

Police Chief Andrew White told Lake County News that a 29-year-old Clearlake man died following the crash.

Based on the initial information police had on Wednesday night, the pedestrian was crossing the roadway in the crosswalk, wearing dark clothing, when he was hit, White said.

White said the female driver told police she had the green light and tried to swerve when she saw the man, but was unable to react quickly enough.

The driver has been cooperative with the investigation, White said.

Police closed down the southbound lane of Highway 53 at Dam Road from just before 9:30 p.m. to shortly before 11 p.m. while the investigation took place, and asked motorists to take an alternate route from Dam Road Extension to Lake Street to exit the city.

Email Elizabeth Larson at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. Follow her on Twitter, @ERLarson, or Lake County News, @LakeCoNews.
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LAKE COUNTY, Calif. — The Board of Supervisors on Tuesday selected the county’s newest Community Development director.

Following a closed session held during the course of Tuesday’s special board meeting, the supervisors voted to hire Mary V. Darby.

Darby has nearly three decades of experience in planning, consulting and coaching.

Johanna DeLong, assistant clerk of the board, said Supervisor EJ Crandell moved to appoint Darby at salary step three, with Supervisor Moke Simon seconding and the board voting 5-0.

The county did not report on what pay range is included in salary step three, but the entire pay range for the job is $102,668.80 to $124,779.20 annually, according to the county’s website.

Darby’s appointment is effective Oct. 4.

“I am overflowing with excitement and joy for the great opportunity afforded me to serve the leaders, residents, businesses and tourists of Lake County,” Darby said in a statement released by the county. “Since leaving California, it has always been my dream to return as a well-rounded, educated and trained community development leader, with experience in many facets of the field.”

Her written statement added, “I am super delighted my return to California will begin, and end, in the county of Lake, and look forward to providing Lake County with professionalism, loyalty and a high standard of customer service. Our team will operate with one main goal in mind … Successful results!”

The county has been looking for stability and leadership for the Community Development Department, which in the last several years has seen several directors come and go.

Darby will be the sixth person to head the department on either a permanent or temporary basis since the start of 2016.

The department has been challenged by turnover, rebuilding in the wake of the county’s devastating fires and working to process hundreds of projects proposed as part of the burgeoning cannabis industry.

In early 2020, the Board of Supervisors combined the Community Development Department with the departments of Public Works and Water Resources, headed by Scott De Leon.

However, in May, the board voted to separate the Community Development director’s job from Water Resources and Public Works with a view to beginning a recruitment for a new director.

At the time, Board Chair Bruno Sabatier noted Community Development is vital to Lake County's our economic well-being and said it also was one of the most difficult departments to manage.

The board subsequently appointed County Administrative Officer Carol Huchingson as interim Community Development director while the county search for a permanent director took place.

Huchingson, her staff and a consultant have overseen the department since then.

“Lake County is on its way up, and this hire is another sign we are building a bright future,” Huchingson said in a written statement. “We are working to make it easier for people to invest in Lake County, to build businesses here, develop housing that we desperately need. Mary Darby will help us take our next steps, and we could not be more pleased to have her aboard.”

Three decades of experience

County officials said Darby’s selection comes as the result of a nationwide search.

Darby is a University of California, San Diego graduate who also holds a Master of Arts degree in city planning from the Georgia Institute of Technology. County officials said she has strong knowledge of National Environmental Policy Act and the California Environmental Quality Act requirements, and is a current American Institute of Certified Planners candidate.

Her resume includes three years as the managing principal of Smart Planning Connections LLC, during which time she has acted as a zoning administrator for municipalities.

She’s also been a planner and a principal planner for the city of Atlanta, acting as project manager for the city’s zoning ordinance updates, and led Atlanta’s Office of Zoning & Development Regulatory Reform Team.

Darby’s professional experience also includes acting as director of planning and zoning for the city of Covington, Georgia; working as transportation environmental planner associate for the Georgia Department of Transportation; community outreach manager for the Georgia Conservancy; zoning administrator for the county of Fulton, Georgia; and membership on the planning board for the 1996 Centennial Olympic Games in Atlanta.

She also has an interest in young people. The Smart Planning Connections website said she launched the "Kid's University" Business & Planning School in 2018, and she’s also the founder of the nonprofit Eagle Heirs International youth program that works with inner city youth.

“It is truly exciting to bring someone with Mary’s depth and breadth of experience to Lake County,” said District 5 Supervisor Jessica Pyska, a member of an ad hoc committee that has been working with the Community Development Department on solving some of its challenges.

Pyska said Darby has proved herself to be a skilled planner, manager and zoning administrator.

Simon, who also sits on the Community Development Department Ad Hoc Committee, said that in Lake County, “We expect department heads to roll their sleeves up, and bring a well-rounded skill set to the table. Mary is ready to do that. She will be a fantastic support to our Community Development staff that has already shown tremendous growth in recent months.”

Email Elizabeth Larson at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. Follow her on Twitter, @ERLarson, or Lake County News, @LakeCoNews.
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CLEARLAKE, Calif. — The Clearlake City Council will discuss the Cache fire response and the state redistricting process when it meets this week.

The council will meet at 6 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 2, in the council chambers at Clearlake City Hall, 14050 Olympic Drive.

The meeting will be broadcast live on the city's YouTube channel or the Lake County PEGTV YouTube Channel. Community members also can participate via Zoom or can attend in person.

The agenda can be found here.

Comments and questions can be submitted in writing for City Council consideration by sending them to City Clerk Melissa Swanson at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

To give the council adequate time to review your questions and comments, please submit your written comments before 4 p.m. on Thursday, Sept. 2.

Each public comment emailed to the city clerk will be read aloud by the mayor or a member of staff for up to three minutes or will be displayed on a screen. Public comment emails and town hall public comment submissions that are received after the beginning of the meeting will not be included in the record.

On the agenda is a discussion on the city’s response to the Cache fire.

City Manager Alan Flora’s report said staff will update the council and community on the current status of various aspects of the Cache fire recovery effort.

The fire, which began in the city on the afternoon of Aug. 18, destroyed 57 homes and 81 outbuildings.

On Aug. 19, the City Council ratified a state of emergency issued the night of the fire by Flora in his capacity as city emergency services director.

Then, on Aug. 24, the Lake County Board of Supervisors ratified the public health emergency and declared a county state of emergency as a result of the Cache fire.

“While no state or federal declarations or significant aid have yet been approved, we are working with various state agencies and our legislative representatives to respond to the immediate need for housing, and cleanup as we prepare for rebuilding,” Flora wrote in his report to the council.

In other business, the council and staff will discuss California's redistricting process.

“As a result of the 2020 Census most political boundaries must be redrawn to adjust districts based on population. This process has been significantly slowed due to the Census being conducted during the global COVID pandemic,” Flora explained in his report to the council.

He said the state’s citizens redistricting commission is currently gathering public input on boundaries.

“The City’s political support (or lack thereof) in the state and federal legislature is critically important to our plans for the future. It is important for the City to provide input on any redistricting that provides the best footing for ensuring support for issues that are important to Clearlake residents,” Flora wrote.

In April the Lake County Board of Supervisors adopted a resolution asking the commission to continue to include Lake County with Napa and Sonoma in representation due to similar issues such as the wine industry.

Flora said the council should consider seeking specific goals in its representation, and may want to request the Board of Supervisors’ support and submit its own letter to the commission.

Also on Thursday, the council will present a proclamation declaring September 2021 as Senior Center Month.

On the meeting's consent agenda — items that are not considered controversial and are usually adopted on a single vote — are warrants; consideration of Resolution No. 2021-43, a resolution approving a temporary road closure for the Soap Box Derby; award of a contract for inspection and materials testing for the Sulphur Fire Roadway Disaster with Green Valley Consulting Engineers for the total amount of $227,360 and authorize the city manager to approve up to 10% for additional unforeseen contract amendments; continuation of declaration of local emergency issued on Oct. 9, 2017, and ratified by council action on Oct. 12, 2017; and continuation of declaration of local emergency issued on March 14, 2020, and ratified by
council action on March 19, 2020.

Following the meeting, the council will have a closed session to discuss properties located at 6452 Francisco and 6461 Manzanita with Edwin Jinks.

Email Elizabeth Larson at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. Follow her on Twitter, @ERLarson, or Lake County News, @LakeCoNews.
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A Lakeport Public Works crew in Lakeport, California, demolishes an old sidewalk at the side of the Lakefront Park. Photo courtesy of the city of Lakeport.

LAKEPORT, Calif. — The city of Lakeport is continuing the work to prepare for construction of its new downtown Lakefront Park.

The 6.9-acre park will be built at 800 N. Main St.

It’s being funded by a $5.9 million grant the city received from the California Department of Parks and Recreation in 2020.

The next phase of work began this week and included the demolition of the old sidewalk along the North Main Street frontage of the future park.

New concrete sidewalks will be installed soon after the demolition work is complete, officials said.

The public is asked to drive with caution in the construction zone area.

An alternative pedestrian access on the east side of North Main Street will be provided in the evenings and on weekends when there are no construction activities.

Construction plans for the new park are nearing completion.

The Lakeport Public Works Department expects to solicit construction bids no later than December 2021.

Sidewalk replacement work takes place at the site of the new Lakefront Park in Lakeport Park in Lakeport, California. Photo courtesy of the city of Lakeport.
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Lakeport Police Sgt. Michael Sobieraj. Courtesy photo.

LAKE COUNTY, Calif. — The Lakeport Police Department said one of its department veterans has completed a challenging program in leadership and development for law enforcement.

The agency publicly congratulated Sgt. Michael Sobieraj on his successful completion of and graduation from The Sherman Block Supervisory Leadership Institute on Aug. 13.

In April, the Clearlake Police Department said one of its sergeants, Elvis Cook, graduated from the institute.

The Sherman Block Supervisory Leadership Institute is a program designed to stimulate personal growth, leadership and ethical decision-making in California law enforcement front-line supervisors.

The institute is an intense program based on experiential learning techniques. Students are challenged to learn new ways to resolve issues through group and individual work.

The 10-month-long curriculum — which includes sessions three days each month — takes students through an analysis of management, including planning, organizing and directing, as well as aspects of leadership such as inspiring, challenging and developing staff.

Students also look at how management and leadership complement each other.

The course progresses from self-evaluation, to interpersonal evaluation, to organizational relationships.

“It is a remarkably valuable course that requires a lot of dedication and self-motivation,” the Lakeport Police Department said.
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LAKE COUNTY, Calif. — The Lake County Fair is just around the corner, returning after a year off due to the pandemic.

“Race to the Lake County Fair” is the theme for this year’s fair, which takes place from Thursday, Sept. 2, through Sunday, Sept. 5.

This year’s fair will feature local musicians, a carnival — with kiddie rides in the main area — along with great food and wares, and community exhibits at their finest.

The gate opens on Thursday at 6 p.m., starting with the Blue Ribbon Dinner and the 8 p.m. grand opening with Grand Marshal Calpine at the Geysers and Volunteers of the Year the Kane family.

Kicking off events in the grandstand will be “Guns N Hoses,” which will see law enforcement squaring off against firefighters in some fantastic fun events coordinated by Lt. Mike Pascoe of the California Department of Fish and Wildlife and Superman Coach Aaron Jameson.

Friday’s headliner will be the Mud Boggs, sponsored by Twin Pine Casino at 7 p.m.

Starting the Labor Day Weekend on Saturday will be the Junior Livestock Auction, with brunch at 10 a.m. and the auction at noon.

The grandstand Power Wheels Derby will take place at 1 p.m. Saturday; there is still time to get your children entered.

Saturday’s grandstands headliner event starts at 7 p.m. with the Destruction Derby.

Sunday is Fiesta Day, with the wild and crazy Boat Races at 7 p.m., sponsored by Lake County Tribal Health.

There will be extra parking during the fair at Lake County Tribal Health with an afternoon shuttle by Angela’s Rides.

Presale tickets are on sale now at businesses or at the fair office this week. Call the fair at 707-263-6181 for more information.

The full schedule follows.

THURSDAY, SEPT. 2

All days free petting zoo and bounce house for the kids.
Building hours: 6 to 10 p.m.
Fair hours: 6 to 11 p.m.

8 p.m.: Opening ceremonies, with Grand Marshal Calpine at the Geysers and 2021 Volunteer of the Year, the Kane family; national anthem sung by Joy Tackett

Grandstand entertainment
10 a.m.: Horse Show
8 p.m.: Inaugural Guns and Hoses competition, law enforcement versus firefighters

Livestock Market Show
8 a.m.: Junior Chicken Meat Pens and Junior Market Turkeys, Alexander Barn
8 a.m.: Junior Swine Show, Junior Sheep Show and Junior Meat Goat Show, Baldwin Pavilion; Junior Ag Mechanics
1 p.m.: Junior Market Rabbits, Alexander Barn

Family oasis in Fiesta Park
A great place for parents to find free fun for youngsters, including a bounce house and petting zoo.

Blue Ribbon invite event
6 p.m.: Blue Ribbon Dinner, Academy Park (KCA Park)

Live music and entertainment
6:30 p.m.: Michael Barrish, country soul, Gazebo Stage
7 p.m.: Time Travelers, classic rock, Main Stage
8 p.m.: Clear Lake Clikkers, clogging, Gazebo Stage
8:30 p.m.: Time Travelers, classic rock, Main Stage

FRIDAY, SEPT. 3

All days free petting zoo and bounce house for the kids.
Building hours: 4 to 10 p.m.
Fair hours: 4 to 11 p.m.

Grandstand entertainment
7 p.m.: Mudd Boggs

Livestock area
9 a.m.: Junior Market Steer

Family oasis in Fiesta Park
A great place for parents to find free fun for youngsters, including a bounce house and petting zoo.

Free contests
5 p.m.: Tricycle race, Fiesta Lawn (behind Fritch Hall). Walk on contest for kids up to age 8; prizes and ribbons.
5:30 p.m.: Race theme floral arrangement contest, Flower Hall. Participants bring a flower arrangement that best represents the contest theme. Must deliver prior to 5 p.m. Sept. 3. Prizes and ribbons for first to third place.

Live music and entertainment
6 p.m.: The Fargo Brothers, Americana and rock n’ roll, Main Stage
6:30 p.m.: Stevie & The Shufflenuts, blues with a different twist, Main Stage
7:45 p.m.: The Fargo Brothers, Americana and rock n’ roll, Main Stage
8:30 p.m.: Stevie & The Shufflenuts, blues with a different twist, Main Stage
9 p.m.: The Fargo Brothers, Americana and rock n’ roll, Main Stage

SATURDAY, SEPT. 4

Building hours: 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.
Fair hours: 11 a.m. to 11 p.m.

Junior Livestock Auction
10:30 a.m.: Buyers registration brunch
Noon: Junior Livestock Auction, Baldwin Pavilion

Grandstand entertainment
1 p.m.: Power Wheels Derby. Free contest; pre-registration required. Prizes and ribbons.
7 p.m.: Destruction Derby

Family oasis in Fiesta Park
A great place for parents to find free fun for youngsters, including a bounce house and petting zoo.

Live music and entertainment
Noon: Beatz Werkin, classic rock, Main Stage
2 p.m.: Beatz Werkin, classic rock, Main Stage
2:30 p.m.: Uncorked, Irish and more, Gazebo Stage
3:45 p.m.: Uncorked, Irish and more, Gazebo Stage
4 p.m.: Beatz Werkin, classic rock, Main Stage
5:15 p.m.: Piano Man David Neft, Gazebo Stage
7 p.m.: Piano Man David Neft, Gazebo Stage
7 p.m.: Hip Replacements, blues, rock and R&B, Main Stage
8:30 p.m.: Piano Man David Neft, Gazebo Stage
10:30 p.m.: Hip Replacements, blues, rock and R&B, Main Stage

Fiesta Music, Main Stage
3 p.m.: Irma Lopez
7 to 9 p.m.: Los Nuevos Imparables

SUNDAY, SEPT. 5

Building hours: 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.
Fair hours: 11 a.m. to 11 p.m.

Livestock area
9 a.m.: Primary Member Showmanship Workshop
Signup at 8:30 a.m. Free, come and join

Special attraction
Fiesta Latina Day, sponsored by Lake County Tribal Health Consortium

Fiesta Music, Main Stage
3 p.m.: Irma Lopez
7 to 9 p.m.: Los Nuevos Imparables

Grandstand entertainment
7 p.m.: Boat races

Family oasis in Fiesta Park
A great place for parents to find free fun for youngsters, including a bounce house and petting zoo.

Free contests
Noon: Diaper Race, Fiesta Lawn; babies crawl to their parent
1 p.m.: Slot Car Race, Fiesta Lawn
3 p.m.: Slot Car Race, Fiesta Lawn

Live music and entertainment
Noon: Rural Jazz Project, artistry of song and improvisation, Main Stage
12:15 p.m.: Majide!, trio, standard jazz classics from the Great American Songbook, Gazebo Stage
1:15 p.m.: Rural Jazz Project, artistry of song and improvisation, Main Stage
1:30 p.m.: Majide!, trio, standard jazz classics from the Great American Songbook, Gazebo Stage
5 p.m.: Austin & Owens, the Neo-Flamenco duo, Gazebo Stage
7 p.m.: Austin & Owens, the Neo-Flamenco duo, Gazebo Stage
9 p.m.: Austin & Owens, the Neo-Flamenco duo, Gazebo Stage

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