LAKEPORT, Calif. – The Lake County Winery Association has announced the appointment of Helena Welsh as the association's new executive director, effective as of Aug. 6.

"I am thrilled to welcome Helena Welsh as our new executive director," said Cindi Olof, LCWA Board Chair. "Helena has a strong background in the wine industry with experience in direct-to-consumer marketing and leading non-profit organizations. Her passion for wine and the Lake County community is why we chose her."

In her new role as executive director, Welsh will be responsible for overseeing the association's activities, increasing membership, and promoting tourism.

"I'm eager to get the word out that Lake County and its wineries are open for business and ready to welcome visitors," said Welsh. "This is a magical time of year to visit."

Welsh served as a board member for the Valley Fire Rebuild Expo, board treasurer for the Summit Recreation and Social Club, and chairperson for Cobb Mountain SITE Council.

After graduating from California State University, Sacramento with a degree in business administration she moved to Lake County and is raising her family in Cobb.

Established in 2007 by a group of wineries, today, the LCWA is directed by a board of directors made up of representatives from seven member wineries, with day-to-day leadership by the executive director.

Association members include wineries, winegrape growers, businesses and individuals with interest in promoting the Lake County wine industry.

For more information about upcoming events, sponsorship or membership opportunities, call 707 357-5237 or visit www.lakecountywineries.org.