A family restaurant in Clearlake owned by the same people for 45 years changed hands. The Chengs turned their key in the lock for the last time on Christmas. Howards Grotto has been on Lakeshore Drive since 2000 and just a few blocks north for 21 years before that. Howard and Maria Cheng have been there every day, and when asked why leave now, Howard said he was too old and wanted to enjoy his retirement. Not to worry, however, the doors will open again as the Chengs have turned over the keys to a new owner, who has said they’ll keep the current staff and keep serving the neighborhood.