LAKEPORT
Creative Writing Class at Mendocino College Lake Center for Spring 2024
A Creative Writing class will be held on Wednesdays 5:30 p.m. to 8:20 p.m. from January 24 through May 22 at the Lake Center campus of Mendocino College. Writing in all genres is welcome, from poetry to fiction, memoir, script and creative journalism. Professors Steve Hellman and Jonah David Wakefield offer encouraging guidance to writers in their creative process. The instructors create a safe and positive classroom environment with a focus on the collaborative process and the sharing of ideas, styles and techniques, while also enjoying and positively commenting on each other’s work. Register for English 210 or the non-credit English 503 at the Lake Center, 2565 Parallel Dr, Lakeport, or online at: www.mendocino.edu. Cost for the non-credit course is only $12. For more information, contact: shellman@mendocino.edu, or the Lake Center office, 707-263-4944.
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LAKEPORT
Community Discussion on the Opioid Crisis in Lake County
Overdose Lifeline, Inc., in collaboration with the City of Lakeport and the Lakeport Police Department, will host a community presentation to address the pressing issue of the opioid crisis in Lake County.
The event on January 17, 6 to 8 p.m. at the Soper Reese Theatre, 275 S. Main Street in Lakeport, is free and open to the public.
Dinner and beverages will be provided by the Lakeport Unified School District.
Overdose Lifeline, Inc., is a nonprofit leader in addressing the opioid epidemic through harm reduction and educational programming.
Justin Phillips, founder of Overdose Lifeline, Inc., will be present along with staff from Lake County Behavioral Health Services and law enforcement representatives to provide information on substance use disorder services available locally. A panel will answer questions regarding the opioid crisis and how it affects Lake County residents.
Phillips will provide valuable insights on substance use disorder, overdose, and harm reduction techniques. This event will provide education and resources to those affected by the opioid crisis in our community.
This multi-agency involvement underscores our commitment to addressing not only the immediate concerns regarding substance use in Lake County, but also providing ongoing education and reducing the stigma attached to substance use disorder.
During the week leading up to the main event, representatives from Overdose Lifeline, Inc., will visit local schools to engage with students and educators. This outreach initiative underscores our dedication to educating and empowering the next generation.
The presenters and sponsors encourage everyone in the community to attend this vital event and participate in the collective effort to combat the opioid crisis. Together we can make a positive impact on the well-being of our community.
Livestream Link at Lakeport Police Department YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCplZjUiT1RYGBIyprJbWAlA
For additional information, please contact Chief Brad Rasmussen, Lakeport Police Department, at (707) 263-5491, Ext. 101.
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MIDDLETOWN
Raíces Hemosas Exhibit at MAC celebrates Latinx Art and culture
The Middletown Art Center proudly announces the highly anticipated exhibition, Raíces Hermosas~Gorgeous Roots, showcasing a vibrant collection of Latinx art. This compelling exhibit serves as a testament to the rich cultural heritage and artistic contributions of the Latinx community.
The Opening Reception of Raíces Hermosas on January 13 from 5:30 to 8pm, is a celebration of contemporary Latinx identity, culture and artistic expression. The exhibit explores roots and addresses pertinent issues through a guest-curated exhibition featuring the exceptional work of local and regional Latinx artists. Visitors will have the opportunity to immerse themselves in a visual narrative that reflects the depth and diversity of the Latinx community.
“It’s a privilege to share the gallery with fellow Latino artists in the MAC’s new group show Raises Hermosas”, said Alex Blas, a Middletown artist originally from Mexico City. “This collection of work not only represents the inspiring diversity of Latinx artists; it also provides an opportunity to share our stories, dreams and passions with our broader community.”
The Opening Reception will provide an opportunity for art enthusiasts, community members, and supporters of Latinx culture to engage with the artists and explore the exhibition firsthand. Attendees will have the chance to interact with the creators behind these captivating artworks, gaining insights into their creative processes and inspirations.
“Raíces Hermosas arose from a need to unify our diverse community through the shared language of art”, said Zabdy Neria, a behavioral health professional, Konocti School DIstrict Board member and Rotarian who joined the MAC board and planted the seed for this project. “I firmly believe that our shared humanity unites us more than our apparent differences. Raíces Hermosas celebrates Latinx culture and traditions and provides a platform to share these gifts with the rest of the community. MAC’s Posadas Party in early December was a wonderful taste of what’s to come! I encourage people of all ages to visit the exhibit and attend upcoming workshops and community festivals at MAC!”
Raíces Hermosas will be on display from January 13 to June 3, Thursday through Monday from 10:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. The exhibit and opening reception are free and open to the public.
In addition to the exhibit, Raíces Hermosas is committed to engaging the local community, especially young minds through free guided school field trips to the gallery with hands-on creative art activities in the studio. Approximately 3,600 Lake County students will have the opportunity to immerse themselves in the world of Latinx art and culture through this unique program. By providing a platform for local and regional Latinx artists, and by nurturing the educational experiences of thousands of students, this project aims to create a lasting impact on our cultural landscape. There are still some dates available for field trips and educators are encouraged to contact MAC if they are interested in providing their students with a unique educational and cultural experience at 707-355-4465 or info@middletownartcenter.org.
Funding for the Raíces Hermosas project is provided by Specified General Fund for the Museum Grant Program under the California Cultural and Historical Endowment.
To learn more and donate to support Raíces Hermosas and other MAC arts and cultural programs visit middletownartcenter.org or call 707-809-8118. The MAC is located at 21456 State Hwy 175 in Middletown.
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