[Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 152 (Thursday, September 24, 2026)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E977]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                 HONORING THE LAKE COUNTY WINE ALLIANCE

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. MIKE THOMPSON

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                      Thursday, September 24, 2026

  Mr. THOMPSON of California. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the 
Lake County Wine Alliance for their 25 years of service to our 
community.
  The Lake County Wine Alliance is a cooperative composed of Lake 
County wineries, winegrape growers, vineyard owners, related 
businesses, and community supporters. Formed in 2000, the Lake County 
Wine Alliance is a nonprofit organization operated under the guidance 
of a seven-member volunteer board of directors with the purpose of 
supporting charitable and other local programs. Each year, the Lake 
County Wine Auction donates its proceeds to local organizations and 
charities whose activities are in keeping with the Alliance's charter.
  The Lake County Wine Alliance is a cornerstone of philanthropy in 
Lake County, providing sustained support for youth education, arts, 
agriculture, and community well-being. They have raised over three 
million dollars in support of Lake County nonprofits. Their 
beneficiaries include local organizations such as all five Lake County 
High Schools Fine Arts and Future Farmers of America (FFA) programs, 
several local culinary programs, Lake County 4-H, Lake County Rural 
Arts Initiative, World Wide Healing Hands, Friends of the Lake County 
Library, and the Clearlake Senior Center.
  The Lake County Wine Alliance has grown thanks to the leadership of 
President Kaj Ahlmann, Vice President Marie Beery, Treasurer Robert 
Rouniguiere, Secretary Beth Havirilla, and Directors Weston Seifert, 
Angie Shannon, and Raven Sprauge.
  Mr. Speaker, we thank the Lake County Wine Alliance for their 
dedicated service to our community. Therefore, it is fitting and proper 
that we honor them here today for their 25th anniversary.

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