LAKE COUNTY, Cafli. — Citizens for Healing will host a party to kick off the campaign to change the name of Kelseyville to Konocti on Sunday, April 24.

The all-volunteer, community-based group has been working on the process to make the change, and they believe giving the town a new name could be an act of healing.

As many people in Lake County know, the town was named after Andrew Kelsey, a scoundrel by all accounts. While the group realizes that history can’t be changed, they think small actions can be taken to undo a misdeed, and embrace a fuller and richer history.

Formerly known as Uncle Sam, the town was renamed Kelseyville by the early settlers of Lake County in the mid 1880s.

“We, the county’s current settlers, should make the effort to give the town a more suitable and respectful name,” said Alan Fletcher, the webmaster for the group.

The group hopes the party will be an opportunity for some real civic discourse, and sharing of opinions and information. Some people view these kinds of changes as “canceling culture.”

“We’re not canceling culture,” said Verge Belanger, “we are shining a light on the true history and recognizing the rich culture that was here before.”

The group is getting a positive response from the community, and their activities have garnered interest from local media.

Scheduled speakers and presentations, from 4 to 6 p.m., will feature local historian, Kevin Engle, and tribal elder, Clayton Duncan. Live music will follow from 6 to 8 p.m.

Snacks and beverages will be provided for free, with an optional potluck if people wish to contribute. And party guests may also enjoy and dance to the musical talent of “The Konocti Blues Band.”

The event will be held at the Grange Hall in Finley, located at 1510 Big Valley Road, Lakeport.

For more information people may visit the group’s website at www.citizensforhealing.org, or call Dallas at 707-245-4118 or Lorna at 707-367-8014.