Annual Dinner 2017

Lake County Land Trust’s 2017 Annual Dinner & Silent Auction on Saturday, September 23, was a grand success!  Thank you to all who attended, donated, volunteered, sponsored, and participated in any way!  

The sold out event took place at Boatique Winery and was generously sponsored by Homestake Mining Co.: The Law Office of Dennis Fordham; Jonas Heating & Cooling; Katzoff & Riggs, LLP; Brad & Kathy Barnwell; Roberta & Harry Lyons; and John Wise & Evelyn Wachtel.  

Guests were excited to hear former Congressman Pete McCloskey, an environmental crusader, speak about the issues affecting our local environment.  Attendees were also treated to several surprises such as a "tattoo" station with artist Ben vanSteenburgh II; Dr. Harry Lyon's introductory song for McCloskey; and a live auction component to the event with Supervisor Jim Steele as Auctioneer.

This event is the Lake County Land Trust's main fundraiser for the year, and we're thrilled by the feedback that we've gotten about what a great time was had by all.  Thanks to all who contributed to make this event a smashing success!  Your support makes it possible for us to do what we do.

Annual Dinner 2016

Lake County Land Trust 2016 Annual Dinner Honors
Peter Windrem and Features Secretary of Agriculture
 
Over 100 people gathered at The Lodge at Blue Lakes on Saturday, Oct. 11, to enjoy a late afternoon event featuring live jazz, a silent auction, delicious dinner, great speakers and the honoring of local attorney, Peter Windrem. The Land Trust holds its fundraising dinner every October to bring supporters together to hear interesting keynote speakers and to honor its “Supporter of the Year.”

For 2016 local attorney and rancher, Peter Windrem, was honored for his many years of service to the Land Trust. Windrem has donated many hours of pro bono work to the land trust, helping the organization negotiate complicated escrows and options on properties. Windrem was presented with a plaque and a resolution of commendation from Congressman Mike Thompson, who was at the event to present the resolution in person to Windrem.

California State Secretary of Agriculture, Karen Ross, was the keynote speaker. She presented an uplifting view of 21st Century California agriculture. She pointed out that modern technology and an awareness of the limited nature of resources are leading to practices for sustainable farming. Ross believes there is a collective aim to leave future generations improved soil and water and to manage for the long term.

At the same time, she believes, there is an effort being made to link consumers with producers through an enlarged effort at making everyone aware of the processes and economics that link farms to tables. “Land Trusts and other environmental organizations are joining with agricultural businesses to establish easements and preserves that include working farms and farms that include habitat restoration as long-term goals,” she noted. She stressed that enlightened government agencies must encourage such cooperative efforts with advice and funding.

Those attending enjoyed a silent auction that featured local artwork and a delicious dinner served by Peter and Maryann Schmid of The Lodge at Blue Lakes. Lake County Land Trust president, Val Nixon reviewed the accomplishments of the land trust over the last year, including completing two conservation easements and the imminent purchasing of a 30 acre wetland parcel on the shores of Clear Lake in Big Valley. Nixon also recognized retiring Lake County Land Trust Executive Director, Catherine Koehler and welcomed new Executive Director, Tom Smythe; new Outreach Coordinator, Melissa Kinsel; and the Land Trust’s new Operations Coordinator, Anne Martin.