I want to express my sincerest appreciation to the voters of Lake County. It is both humbling and exhilarating to be selected to serve as your sheriff-coroner.

With your continued support Lake County will flourish and I will do every thing in my power to make our communities among the safest in the nation.

To the many hard working volunteers, supporters, and individuals and organizations that contributed to my campaign, I count among my many blessings the privilege of having worked with you and now, to serve you as your sheriff.

There are a great many people to thank; the list of volunteers and supporters is long. I do want to give a special thank you to my core campaign team for their advice and execution of key strategies that ultimately proved successful.

In addition, there are countless key volunteers who did so much to help get out the vote, from walking neighborhoods with me to making phone calls on my behalf and so much more.

Also, to the many supporters who made contributions of money, your generosity made it possible to reach voters through the media and direct mail, an essential aspect of our campaign.

It is difficult to find the right words to convey my thanks. My hope is that in due time you will see the fruits of your labor in safer communities, an open and accountable sheriff’s department, and in the shaping of a welcoming and economically viable Lake County in which all citizens can take pride.

I will take office on Jan. 5, 2011. In the meantime, a celebration of our victory is being hosted by our Native American friends at the Konocti Vista Casino and Resort on Nov. 21, from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. This no charge event will feature live music, complimentary food and is open to everyone in the community. I hope to see you there.

Frank Rivero is sheriff-elect of Lake County, Calif.