LAKE COUNTY, Calif. — A long-held tradition of the Clear Lake Soroptimist Club is hosting an annual event that brings together people who share an interest in improving the lives of women and girls through education. The Wine and Food Pairing lunch aims to do just that.

For the 2024 event, Middletown winemaker David Rosenthal and Greenview Chef John Fallon are joining forces to provide a delicious pairing of wines and small plates.

“Instead of the more conventional buffet style luncheon, we decided to try something a little different,” said Wendy Agraviador, the club’s newest member and treasurer. “We think everyone will enjoy the food, wine and other beverages that will be served.”

The proceeds from the luncheon will benefit local projects that share in the club's mission to help women and girls achieve economic empowerment through education and training.

“Poverty is a pervasive factor and the main reason women are unable to obtain a higher education,” said club President Olga Steele. “A substantial amount of the funds raised will go to women who are low income, heads of household and enrolled in vocational training or college.”

In keeping with event tradition, the agenda includes a featured talk about domestic violence.

“Domestic violence is a sad reality in society – and the reason our club is featuring ‘Domestic Violence: Stop the Silence,’ a presentation by local subject matter professionals Lisa Morrow and Sheri Young of the Lake Family Resource Center,” Steele said.

Basket maker extraordinaire and club co-President Cynthia Barnes said being a Soroptimist is a serious undertaking.

“That is because the issues inherent in our mission are, in fact, serious. But we also know how to have fun and we have had a blast getting ready for the event and making our signature baskets for the traditional basket raffle,” she said.

Tickets for the Wine Makers Lunch are available on Eventbrite under Wine Makers Lunch, Lake County, CA.

Tables of eight are also available at a discount by contacting Agraviado at 510-303-1414. She will also take your ticket purchase in lieu of the Eventbrite option if you so choose.

Doors open at 11:30 a.m. The Sept. 7 event is at the Greenview Event Center, 19210 Hartmann Road, Hidden Valley.

Follow Soroptimist International of Clear Lake Club on Facebook.