LAKE COUNTY – Nothing pulls us outside of our own experience, and invites us to explore other points of view, quite like a great film. Hearts and minds can be opened in two-hour increments. The best films bring us together, creating common touchstones across cultural boundaries, and encouraging personal and community resilience.
For the past few years, life in the Lotter family has been the stuff of cinema. As owners of Lakeport Cinema 5 and Lakeport Auto Movies, they have endured the significant challenges that have faced most Lake County business owners as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Also like many in Lake County, the Lotters’ businesses have been greatly affected by wildfire. None more so than their Paradise Cinema 7, which now stands empty in a community that faced one of the most devastating events in California’s contemporary history – the Camp Fire.
Considering this confluence of challenges, it would be understandable if the Lotters were down and focused on personal losses. Instead, they are investing in the communities their businesses serve.
In the days following 2018’s Camp Fire, with the community reeling, the Lotters’ marquee outside of the Paradise Cinema 7 read: “Paradise Strong – Paradise Will Rise Again.” A Facebook post simply depicting the sign against an ashen sky garnered 989 Reactions and more than 1,000 Shares.
Now, they are helping Lake County respond to and move beyond the COVID-19 pandemic.
“Many are aware Lakeport Auto Movies is host to our COVID-19 vaccination clinics on Mondays and Tuesdays,” reported Carol J. Huchingson, County Administrative Officer, and Incident Commander for Lake County’s COVID-19 response. “Most are likely unaware the Lotter family insisted our Agreement to use the site reflect ‘no charge.’ This is an extraordinary demonstration of foresight and generosity, and makes a positive difference in the lives of every Lake County resident.”
County officials noted, “May we all, when faced with difficult circumstances, remember there is hope and a way forward; positive and life-affirming actions are available to be taken. Thank you, Lotter family, for your generous donation!”
