UPPER LAKE, Calif. – On Tuesday, Sept. 11, from 5 to 7:30 p.m., the public is invited to join local nonprofit and business leaders, government officials, friends and neighbors for an evening of community building, brainstorming and problem solving as they strategize on efforts to restore the community, support affected businesses and their workforce.

The event hosts, Peter and Maryann Schmid, owners of The Lodge at Blue Lakes, are opening their convention center to the community.

“We are fortunate and eternally grateful for the heroic efforts of our firefighters and first responders who worked tirelessly for our safety and the safety of thousands who were affected by the River and Ranch Fires,” said Maryann Schmid. “We decided it was vital to begin the restoration process immediately – there is so much to do,” she said.

The event is open to the public. A short meet and greet begins at 5 p.m. and the program kicks off promptly at 5:30 p.m. with opening remarks by Lake County Administrative Officer Carol Huchingson. The discussion will be moderated by Lake County Chamber CEO Melissa Fulton.

In addition, District 3 Supervisor Jim Steele will present his assessment of the Mendocino Complex fire; Ramona d’ Viola, creative director of The Lodge at Blue Lakes, will give a presentation on reciprocal social media marketing; and Olga Steele will articulate Maryann Schmid’s One Team One Dream, an initiative supporting Lake County wildfire disaster recovery efforts.

Live music will be provided by Lake County’s favorite, David Neft, on the keyboards. Lake County Winery Association members’ wine will be poured by Helena Welsh, their executive director. Appetizers by Lucerne’s Euro Market & Bistro will also be served.

Please RSVP at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

The Lodge at Blue Lakes is located in Upper Lake, 5135 West Highway 20.