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Volume XVIII Issue 241
Monday, July 6th, 2026
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Banner Lassen Medical Center to be Sold to Affiliate of Quorum Health
Banner Health has announced it has signed an asset purchase agreement to sell Banner Lassen Medical Center to an affiliate of Quorum Health. The transaction is expected to be completed in December 2026, pending required regulatory approvals.
According to a press release issued by the hospital, the agreement represents both organizations’ commitment to Lassen County and surrounding communities by supporting continued access to local healthcare under an owner with experience in rural hospital operations in California.
Quorum Health operates 11 hospitals across nine states, including one in California.
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The organization stated it is committed to strengthening long-term viability and access to care in rural communities, using a local oversight model to align healthcare services with community needs.
“We are committed to the future of health care in Lassen County, and that commitment led us to find the right partner to continue delivering great care here in Susanville,” said Margo Karsten, the senior vice president of Banner Health’s Western Division.
“An organization with experience operating rural health care within California and a dedication to supporting local teams is the ideal partner to serve this community’s health care needs while preserving access to care close to home.”
Transition to Nonprofit Model
Prior to the close of the BLMC transaction, Quorum Health is expected to transition to a nonprofit model and operate as Healthside Partners. As a result of this transition, the affiliate purchasing Banner Lassen Medical Center will be a nonprofit entity at the time the transaction closes.
Quorum Health’s existing leadership team, led by CEO Chris Harrison, will remain in place with Healthside Partners.
“We’re honored to have the opportunity to serve the residents of Lassen County, and support continued access to care,” Harrison said. “Improving health care in rural Northern California supports our mission to create sustainable health care solutions in more rural and midsized communities.”
Impact on Employees and Patients
Quorum has indicated that it will offer employment to all active employees who satisfy Quorum’s standard hiring criteria at the time of the transition.
For local residents, hospital officials say patients can schedule and keep appointments as usual, and day-to-day operations will continue without interruption during the transition. The organizations emphasized they are committed to supporting a smooth transition for patients, employees, and the community.
About the Organizations
Banner Lassen is currently a part of the nonprofit Banner Health system, offering obstetrics, general surgery, orthopedic surgery, inpatient and outpatient medical imaging services, rehabilitation services and emergency care.
Quorum Health is an operator of general acute care hospitals and outpatient services in the U.S. Through its subsidiaries, the company owns, leases, or operates a diversified portfolio of 11 affiliated hospitals in rural and midsized markets across nine states.
Healthside Partners is a newly formed nonprofit healthcare company focused on supporting healthcare in rural and midsized communities. In Fall 2026, Quorum Health is expected to finalize the transition of its network of affiliated hospitals, physician practices, and outpatient facilities across nine states to Healthside Partners.
For more information, residents can visit bannerhealth.com/lassen or HealthsidePartners.com. Anyone needing to contact the hospital with questions regarding care during the transition can reach BLMC at 1.530.252.2000.
| | Jolene Arredondo’s artistic contribution to the Art in Every Hand Community Exhibition | |
Busy Summer for Lassen County Arts Council
By Kaitlyn Midgely
The Lassen County Arts Council is celebrating a busy and creative summer season after wrapping up the first week of its summer workshops and inviting the community to take part in several upcoming arts programs and events.
The summer began with the Wonder Art: Stars, Stripes & Summer Vibes workshop, where young artists celebrated America’s 250th anniversary through patriotic-themed crafts and creative activities. Participants completed projects that will be entered into the still exhibits at this year’s Lassen County Fair, giving the community a chance to see their creativity on display.
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The LCAC also welcomed Plumas Rural Services’ Visions Program to the gallery for an afternoon of fellowship, food and art. Led by local artist and instructor Rob Cannon, participants learned the art of handmade journal creation using chipboard, hand-binding techniques and mixed-media creativity to personalize their journals.
The Arts Council extends a special thank you to Jennifer Ready, Visions Coordinator, for supporting arts programming and helping bring creative opportunities to Lassen County residents.
Now on display at the LCAC Gallery is the Art in Every Hand Community Exhibition, featuring artwork created by community members of all ages and experience levels. The exhibit showcases a wide variety of artistic styles, materials and creative ideas, demonstrating that art truly belongs to everyone.
The Art in Every Hand exhibit will remain on display through July 31st, and visitors are encouraged to stop by and enjoy the collection. The gallery will also be offering refreshments during several summer open house dates:
• July 18 (Fair Parade Popsicles)
• July 25
• July 31
Looking ahead, the Arts Council has several exciting workshops planned throughout the summer. Award-winning songwriter Richard Elloyan will lead a Songwriters Workshop on Friday, July 10th, from 5:30 to 7:30p.m.
Participants will explore the songwriting process while learning from one of Northern California’s accomplished musicians. Light refreshments will be provided, and space is limited. Those interested are encouraged to reserve their spot by emailing info@lassencountyartscouncil.org.
Additional summer workshops include:
Wonder Art Workshop on Tuesday, August 11th, from 1:00 to 2:30p.m., and Art with Rob Cannon & Family on Wednesday, August 12th, from 1:00 until 3:00p.m. Designed for youth ages 9 to 12 and their families. Workshop details will be announced soon.
The Lassen County Arts Council continues its mission of providing creative opportunities, educational workshops and community events that encourage artistic expression for residents of all ages.
For additional information about workshops, gallery hours or upcoming events, visit the Lassen County Arts Council on Facebook or email info@lassencountyartscouncil.org.
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Repairs to City Well #3 Complete: City Lifts Water Conservation Request
The City of Susanville Public Works Department has officially lifted the water conservation request issued last month following the failure of Well 3, the city’s primary irrigation supply well.
According to a press release from the city, a significant number of repairs to the well have been completed. Current water storage levels have improved enough to allow officials to rescind the previous request for reduced water usage, meaning residents can now resume their regular irrigation watering schedules as normal.
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While the immediate water supply situation has stabilized, city officials will continue to closely monitor water levels and system conditions during the return to normal operations. The city asks all local residents and businesses to continue practicing responsible water use and to avoid unnecessary water waste.
City staff noted that community members can help by taking simple steps to conserve. This includes ensuring that water does not run off onto sidewalks, streets, or other areas where it isn’t needed. Residents are also asked to remain mindful of excessive irrigation, adjusting their watering habits when conditions do not require the extra moisture, and to check for and repair leaks as quickly as possible to prevent unnecessary water loss.
The City of Susanville expressed its appreciation for the community’s cooperation and efforts during the recent conservation request, noting that the proactive public response directly supported the city’s water system while critical repairs were being completed.
For additional information regarding the water system or conservation efforts, community members can contact the City of Susanville Public Works Department at 1.530.257.1041.
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Agenda: July 7th 2026, Lassen County Board of Supervisors Meeting
There will be a Lassen County Board of Supervisors Meeting on Tuesday, July 7th, 2026, at 9:00a.m. at the Board Chambers, 707 Nevada Street, Susanville.
Click here to download a printable agenda for the meeting.
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LMUD Accepting Submissions for Annual Photo Contest Calendar
Calling all photographers! Lassen Municipal Utility District distributes more than 6,000 copies of their Ruralite calendar each year to the utility’s customers in Susanville and the surrounding area.
Would you like to see your photo on the calendar? Here’s how it works.
“Thirteen amazing photos will be chosen by an unbiased team of judges at Ruralite magazine,” explains Public Energy Specialist Theresa Phillips. “Winning photos will be featured in the calendar and possibly on the cover of the Lassen Ruralite magazine.”
Winners will be announced during Public Power Week, the first week in October, and each will receive a $50 LMUD energy gift card.
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There is a limit of one prize per entrant, regardless of the number of photos chosen. By entering the contest, you agree to give LMUD rights to publish your photo in the calendar, on the Ruralite cover, and in various communication channels, including print and digital, with photo credit.
Phillips had these helpful hints for aspiring calendar photographers:
- Use the highest resolution setting on your digital camera or cellphone.
- Photograph beautiful places and wildlife. Successful photos will have dramatic colors or scenery.
- Submit photos that suggest a season or holiday.
- Show us the best-hidden spots in our area.
- Avoid photos of pets.
- Pay attention to lighting. Just after sunrise and just before sunset are beautiful times to photograph
You must live in or have a business served by LMUD and photos need to be taken within LMUD’s service area. Submit horizontal (landscape) JPEG images only and make sure they are high quality. (at least 300 dpi)
Your submission should include your contact info and a short description with each photo.
Each contestant can submit a maximum of three photos and photos will be accepted until August 14th, 2026. For complete rules, details and a photo submission form click here.
Contact Phillips at 1.530.257.6944 if you have questions about the contest.
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Winners of Prizes in Annual Susanville Crazy Days Costume Contest
July 6, 1971
LINDA CHAMBERS, an employee at the Sears Roebuck & Co. catalog office, dressed as a Christmas tree, won the $25 first prize in the annual Crazy Days competition held by the Susanville Merchants Association in conjunction with their Crazy Days promotion last Friday and Saturday.
Earline Bloomquist, from the Montgomery Ward catalog office, took second place with her costume designed as a Christmas package.
Maryvonne Kauffman and Sue Masoner, employees in the local Bank of America branch, tied for third with their cancelled check costumes. The second place winner received a $15 prize and the two third place winners were awarded $10 each.
Winners were selected at a kick-off breakfast held last Friday morning at the Hotel Mt. Lassen. Judges for the contest were Mayor Ivor Lanigar, Superior Court Judge Stanley Arnold and Lassen Forest Supervisor James Berlin.
Paul Ward of KSUE served as master of ceremonies. Theme for this year’s Crazy Days promotion was “Christmas in July.”
Pictured from left are Linda Chambers, Earline Bloomquist, Maryvonne Kauffman and Sue Masoner. (Schullo photo).
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If you are a fan of our daily history stories you should join the Lassen Historical Society! It's a fun way to be a part of our county's rich history. When you sign up you'll receive regular Historical Society newsletters with interesting stories and information. Membership is open to anyone with an interest in area history.
Through your membership you help preserve local history. You can download a membership application by clicking here.
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