UPPER LAKE – The second in a series of informal business-to-business gatherings to exchange ideas on dealing with the market downturn was a success, and the entire series is anticipated to be valuable for all participants.

At the second “Thursday Evenings with the Schmids,” held on March 19, economic historian and market analyst Hal Bryan, who will share his wisdom and advice throughout the series, cautioned business owners to avoid premature expansion at the first sign of a turnaround, as he saw the probability of several false market bottoms before real recovery could occur, based upon his study of previous bubbles.

He indicated there would be profit opportunities for those businesses which were innovative and flexible in what he sees as an increasingly inflationary environment.

Event hosts Peter, Maryann and Rita Schmid of The Lodge at Blue Lakes, and manager Sylvia DeSantis, wish to thank all who attended the second “Thursday Evening with the Schmids” on March 19, and for their enthusiastic validation of the concept of the business-to-business networking series.

Guest speaker Sandra West, owner of the Edgewater Resort and facilitator of Mount Konocti Facilitation, gave a very informative talk entitled, “Market your existing customers to create new customers.”

Debra Sommerfield, deputy administrative officer for the county of Lake's Economic Development Department, also attended.

Barbara and Larry Juchert of Mendo Lake Interiors and Journeys provided complimentary appetizers. Ronald and Martha Benway of Harbor House Espresso Bar furnished the coffee. Michelle Price of Tulip Hill Winery and Jason Schrider of Mendocino Brewing Co. poured liquid refreshments, with background music provided by guitarist Jason Argos.

The third event in the series will be held on Thursday, April 2, from 5:30 p.m. to 8 p.m., with Bryan proposing a model survival plan for small businesses which will be developed with the participation of Lake and Mendocino business owners and community leaders during this series of "Thursday Evenings with the Schmids."

The April 2 event will feature Bryan and guest speaker Marcia de Chadenèdes, outreach and partnership coordinator for the North Coast Geotourism Project, who will speak about a new project to produce a National Geographic Society branded map and a Geotourism Map Guide Web site for the North Coast area of California, which includes Lake and Mendocino counties.

On April 2, Steele Winery and Mendocino Brewing Co. will provide wine and beer; Jerry Thompson manager of Pro-Flame Gas will furnish the appetizers and entertainment will be provided by Steve Winkle.

The series will continue on the first and third Thursday evenings of the month in March, April and May to provide a forum for businesses to showcase their products and services, make local connections, and discuss ways of coping during this economic downtown.

Due to the success of the two gatherings and to preserve the intimate and relaxed fireside ambiance, the Schmids feel obliged to limit the number of guests, so it is essential to RSVP for the upcoming get-togethers.

To inquire about future speakers and to RSVP, please contact Sylvia DeSantis at 275-2181.

The Lodge at Blue Lakes is located at 5135 W. Highway 20, Upper Lake. Visit the lodge online at www.thelodgeatbluelakes.com.

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