By Mandy Feder
Turns out there is a cure for the summertime blues.
Just the thought of building a duct tape and cardboard boat for a Fourth of July event at the Lakeport Yacht Club stirred joyous conversations, teamwork and creativity among friends and co-workers. First we planned on obtaining a quagga inspection sticker. Sports editor Brian Sumpter has a genius kid who quickly designed the craft, many names for the vessel were considered and much laughter followed. I got as far as contacting businesses where appliances were sold to obtain big boxes before realizing the time commitment of the project. Even though the “Bee” boat will not be built this year, I am sure this free, all-for-fun event has what it takes to put a little levity into the lives of all participating and observing.
My first introduction to Lake County came about more than a decade ago as a result of a short road trip with a stranger.
My friend Dimitri had two tickets to a show at Konocti Harbor Resort & Spa. He could not attend, so he asked if I wanted to drive his friend John and take the front row seat next to him. I immediately fell in love with the intimate venue with the stage perched on beautiful Clear Lake, the largest natural lake with the largest surface area of any freshwater lake in the state. I learned then that Clear Lake is believed to be one of the oldest lakes in North America. John and I talked all the way there. We even realized we have the same birthday. Every once in awhile I see John and I reminisce about my first trip up Highway 20. Fourth of July weekend at Konocti this year features 3 Doors Down, Safety Suit and Parachute with fireworks following the show. I am looking forward to seeing a band that I think is the exact opposite of its name, “The All-American Rejects” on the fifth. I”m gearing up by singing “Move Along” and “Gives You Hell” at every opportunity. Both shows feature Lake County”s own “The Lost Boys” as the opening act.
The Lakeport Regional Chamber of Commerce has dedicated countless hours to insure that on the Fourth the sky over Lakeport will light up, in spite of the challenge to obtain necessary funding. Thanks to residents and visitors the display will be possible because of the Add-a-Dollar campaign. Ukiah was not as fortunate, there will be no fireworks display at the fairgrounds there this year.
In historic downtown Lakeport, the Lakeport Main Street Association holds a street fair that epitomizes a small town family atmosphere. At Library Park families gather and stake out their space, picnicking and playing games. A Norman Rockwell Fourth of July painting comes to mind. Melissa Fulton tells me that if you tune into KXBX 1270 AM the music will coincide with the fireworks display; how cool is that?
If I can find a hearty, healthy and fast worm I intend to enter the 42nd annual Worm Races during the Independence Day Festivities at Austin Park in Clearlake on July 4 following the parade. Heck, if you don”t have a worm they will rent you one from the famed stables of the Clear Lake Chamber of Commerce. The regional charm shines in this event because Clear Lake is known as the “Bass Capital of the West.” Instead of being bait the invertebrates emerge as stars.
Summer is my favorite season. I especially enjoy the dry California heat in comparison to the sometimes suffocating humidity of the East Coast. Lake County has so many amazing events for the Fourth. I intend to get out and see the sights and get to know some more of the great folks here.
Mandy Feder is the Record-Bee news editor. She can be reached at mandyfeder@yahoo.com or 263-5636 Ext. 32.
