Antique cars decorated the countryside on Saturday, May 3 when the Lake County A”s hosted its 14th annual Spring Opener. Model A enthusiasts from around northern California joined local buffs on an outdoor excursion in the south lake area that culminated with a barbecue at Six Sigma Ranch and Winery in Lower Lake.
This year”s event was held out of the City of Clearlake. “We brought it back to where it all began 14 years ago,” said organization publicist Henrietta Kistner.
Events and activities for the three-day occasion were orchestrated out of the Elks Lodge. Guests enjoyed a social “Speak Easy” party as they arrived for the opener on Friday night. Socializing and dancing under the stars to the music of David Neft filled the night.
On Saturday morning participants took to the streets on a guided tour of the south county area that led them to the beautiful and tranquil setting of Six Sigma Ranch and Winery. Ranch owners Kaj and Else Ahlmann cordially welcomed the motorists as they arrived at Six Sigma, which is located on 430 acres off of Spruce Grove Road in Lower Lake. “It was quite a sight seeing 45 of those cars coming down the (dirt) road (to the ranch),” said Kaj Ahlmann.
While at the ranch, guests enjoyed wine tasting, a barbecue lunch and hunting for Lake County diamonds. Prior to taking to the hunt, the owner of Sandy”s Rock Shop provided a brief lecture regarding the county gems. Guests also had the opportunity to tour the Diamond Mine Vineyard located on the ranch and relax and mingle in the comfort of the peaceful ranch yard.
Jerry Harris and Barbara Dabney of Union City”s Acorn A”s, enjoyed participating in this year”s event. The couple has been enjoying such events for about the past nine years, touring in their 1930 Model A named “Lucille.” Model A”s are what brought the couple together according to Dabney. “We actually met on match.com,” Dabney said. “He said he wanted a co-pilot for his Model A.”
Saturday night wrapped-up with dinner and a Broadway-type show entitled “Love Is A Crime,” which starred several Lake County A”s club members. The Angel Lights and Harmony Boys also highlighted the show.
Guests had a last chance to socialize during a Sunday morning breakfast before heading home after the event.
Contact Denise Rockenstein at drockenstein@clearlakeobserver.com.
