A version of this article was first published on Record-Bee.

LAKEPORT >> Recalling the inspiration for Hands Up Lake County Business Competition, co-founder Olga Martin Steele singled out the city of Clearlake City Manager Alan Flora…  “He knew a good idea when he heard one and he was a top supporter from day one,” Martin Steele, said.

Flora praised all participants of the competition and warmly bestowed congratulations. “Your achievements are a testament to your vision and perseverance- but remember, tonight is not just about winning, it is about celebrating the journey of lessons learned, the connections you made along the way, every participant, including the those who didn’t take the stage tonight but learned and competed through the process, is a winner in their own right,”

He also congratulated judges and sponsors for unwavering support and believing in the power of small business, for investing in the future of Lake County. “Maryann (Schmid, co-founder), you pushed for more each year, refused to give in, each successful business has many (prospective) choices, yet they continued to invest in Lake County to make it a better place. And for a $150,000 cash (donation) inspired Olga,” he said. Flora then praised her incredible skills of implementation. “You’re always working to sort out every detail, diligently planned for the best approach to do something especially impressive.”

Flora then thanked Board of Supervisors’ Chair, Bruno Sabatier, for using his political capital to secure sponsorship commitment. “Thank you for always fighting for Clearlake, local business and all of Lake County, for a new direction that you took the initiative on.”

Adriana Marquez is an oral hygienist. When she opened Glowing Smiles Dental Hygiene Practice, her goal was to create a space where her patients would feel more comfortable about getting their teeth cleaned. She won the $40,000 prize in the established category.  “I do teeth cleanings, and I am in network, which means accepting Delta Dental, Guardian, Cigna, United Healthcare and not used up all of your benefits,” she said.

Marquez has completed an accredited dental hygiene education program and has been licensed by a state board of dental examiners to provide preventive care services.  Glowing Smiles is located at 908 South Main Street in Lakeport.  Marquez is praised for her demeanor and expertise, making each visit less stressful, while offering a spa-like feeling.

Winning first place in the startup category were Seth Dandridge and Kyle Aarreberg earning a $15,000 check. Dandridge noted while creating the business in June 2023 they were bringing vacationing and tourism back on the lake all owned outright by the company. “Our vessels are safe, clean and insured and secured to the mooring dock and provide a safety briefing, so customers are knowledgeable and look forward to powering their next adventure. Aarreberg noted customers can reach Powersports by phone, web or walk-ins to choose the right vessel for their next adventure. “There’s a lot of retail items; sunglasses, swimsuits and clothing ads well as opportunity for customers to create memories that last forever. “We always bring smiles and positive attitude,” said Dandridge. “Were conveniently located for travelers from the Bay Area, Napa and Sonoma and with our Facebook page reach over 30,000”

Second place in the established category, two prizes of $20,000 each were shared by Hannah Lee of Konacti Bicycles and Brandon Costner of Kingdom Games. Second place for the start-up category went to Douglas Durden and Nick Parsons of D&N’s Smashburgerz and to Anahi Robles-Gonzales of Nana arrangements (floral), receiving $10,000 each.

Third place for established category, $15,000, went to Allison Berlogar and Greg Rodgers of Mountain High Coffee and Books and to Elizabeth Arias of Elizabeth Cleaning Services.  Fan favorite, voted online, went to Anahi Robles-Gonzalez of Nana arrangements (floral designs).