Sonora, CA…The Sonora Opera Hall was filled to overflowing on Thursday evening as hundreds of local homeowners overpacked the venue so that the fire marshals had to ask some to leave. Speaking of fire….many attendees were close to spontaneous combustion at the lack of insurance options and exorbitant pricing of the few options they do have.

After introductions by Sonora Mayor Jim Garaventa Insurance Commissioner Ricardo Lara lead a presentation and gave an overview of the insurance market challenges at this time. At times the presentation was interupted by shouted questions from the audience.

State Senator Andreas Borgeas attended and spoke briefly as well. Assemblyman Frank Bigelow spoke and lead the question and answer session for a good deal of the meeting. He also explained the efforts and measures that the elected officials are taking in Sacramento.

There will be a similar meeting at the Calaveras Fairgrounds on September 16th. The meeting will be at Frogtown and if they hold it in Mark Twain Hall it should be able to accommodate a larger crowd.