KELSEYVILLE
Annual Wreaths Across America ceremony to honor Veterans at Kelseyville Cemetery
On Saturday, Dec. 14, 2024, from 9 to 10 a.m., the Kelseyville Cemetery, located at 3375 Bell Hill Road, will host a heartwarming Wreaths Across America Ceremony to honor the service and sacrifice of our nation’s veterans. This year, a total of 530 veterans’ graves will be adorned with wreaths in a tribute of remembrance and gratitude.
The ceremony will be entirely led by local 4-H youth from Big Valley 4-H, Blue Heron 4-H, and Scotts Valley 4-H. The event will feature an a cappella rendition of the National Anthem performed by “My Divas” and will include an escort provided by the California Highway Patrol and the Kelseyville Fire Department.
Community members are encouraged to attend this moving event, which honors veterans and fosters a spirit of unity and service. Attendees who wish to place a wreath on a grave personally are welcome to do so.
Audrey Panella, a long-time participant in the event, shared her sentiments:
“This day means so much to me because it’s a time for remembering and honoring our veterans. It’s especially special because I get to place a wreath on my uncle’s and great-grandfather’s graves. It’s a way for all of us to come together and say thank you for their sacrifices.”
The success of this annual event is made possible by the loyal support of the Lake County community, whose generous contributions ensure every veteran’s grave receives a wreath. Organizers express their heartfelt thanks to everyone who purchased a wreath to honor our heroes.
All are welcome to attend this ceremony and share in the meaningful act of remembering those who have served.
About Blue Heron 4-H Club
The Lake County Blue Heron 4-H Club is a dedicated group of young leaders committed to community service and making a positive impact. With a strong belief in the power of service, they aim to unite the Lake County community in support of local causes and to honor our veterans.
About Wreaths Across America
Wreaths Across America is a non-profit organization devoted to honoring and remembering our nation’s veterans. Their initiatives include placing wreaths on veterans’ graves during the holiday season to ensure their legacies are never forgotten.
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MIDDLETOWN
Celebrate Christmas in Middletown with Las Posadas Navideñas at MAC
The Middletown Art Center (MAC) invites the entire community to a festive Christmas in Middletown & Posadas Navideñas celebration on Saturday, December 14, from 3 p.m. to 8 p.m. Join us for an afternoon and evening filled with music, food, culture, and community spirit that will delight participants of all ages!
The festivities kick off at 3 p.m. with music and caroling at 3:30 led by local talents Carlos Garay, Victor Hall, and David Bacerra-Lopez, followed by festive piñata-breaking at 4 p.m. for ages 4 to 11. There will be a second round of caroling at 7 p.m. followed by piñata-breaking for ages 11 and up. The large, vibrantly colored piñatas were created during a community workshop at MAC last weekend for this holiday event.
Festivities at MAC this year build on the success of last year’s well-attended Posadas Navideñas and the Raíces Hermosas exhibit, school field trips, and related events. These established a foundation for inter-cultural sharing to uplift local Mexican and Latin American communities and their cultural traditions
Las Posadas has been a Mexican tradition for over 400 years that is also celebrated in Guatemala and Honduras. It commemorates the Virgin Mary and St. Joseph’s search for shelter, with festivities including food, music, and piñatas. Today, Las Posadas transcends its religious roots and is a joyful, inclusive cultural celebration embraced by people of all beliefs. MAC is honored to continue this tradition as part of its commitment to creating an inclusive space for cultural celebrations and artistic expression.
“Bringing Las Posadas to Middletown brings a little piece of home for families that originate from Mexico and provides an opportunity for first-generation children to connect with their ancestral traditions,” said Gilberto Rangel, HSRA Coordinator at Lake County Tribal Health and Konocti School Board Member. “This approach strengthens our community by fostering understanding and connection across diverse backgrounds.”
Cultural activities at MAC this year are partially funded by a mini grant from Lake County Behavioral Health Services through community based mini grant funding, and by Lake County Tribal Health. For more information about how you can support the Middletown Art Center’s intercultural programs, email info@middletownartcenter.org, visit middletownartcenter.org or call/text 707-355-4465.
The Middletown Art Center is a Lake County nonprofit dedicated to fostering art education, appreciation, and creation. Through exhibitions, workshops, and events, MAC serves as a platform for diverse voices and perspectives, striving to build community connections and celebrate the richness of our shared cultural heritage.
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