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Volume XVIII Issue 242
Tuesday, July 7th, 2026
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The Good Stuff by Shelley Bennett
The Lassen County Fair is just a week away and as usual, that means the Miss Lassen County Scholarship competition, sponsored by Lassen County Federal Credit Union, will be kicking off a week of fun, farm animals, and food. What is not usual is that the MLC Scholarship competition will be held on TUESDAY, July 14th. Don’t forget that – it’s important!
I don’t remember how long it’s been since the pageant was on Tuesday night, but that’s how it always was when I was growing up. I remember being so excited to watch the beautiful contestants and their talents, but also getting a glimpse of what the fair would hold.
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Whoever is crowned as our next Miss Lassen and Court will have the opportunity to open the fair up at the ribbon cutting on Wednesday morning and reign over the festivities for the entire five days.
The other thing that is important is the time. Miss Lassen 2025 Kaylee Micone and her court Londyn Smith and Dalila Heard are hosting the pre-show at 7:00. It will feature many young people in our community, including a band, dancers, singers, and hopefully a guitarist or two. If you have a talented young person to recommend, please email me!
And while you’re at it, hit up any local 4-H kid and buy a ticket for the annual 4-H BBQ. You can indulge in a delicious tri-tip or chicken dinner with all the fixins before heading over to the grandstands to catch the show.
A few weeks ago, the contestants were treated to a professional photo shoot from Tressa Guess of Thunder Mt. Photography. They got all glammed up and struck a pose at the historic Sierra Theatre, home to the Susanville Performing Arts Center. Now, it’s time to meet this year’s Broadway Bound contestants. The photoshoot was by Tressa Guess and Thunder Mountain Photography.
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Mia Hansen
Daughter of: Maribel and William Hansen
Sponsored by: Mt. Lassen Dance Academy and Wynn Concrete
Talent: Tap Dancing to Michael Jackson’s “Beat It”
Favorite Broadway Show: In the Heights
Community Service Highlight: Volunteering at the library
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Molly Mealey
Daughter of: Deborah and James Mealey
Sponsored by: Mt. Lassen Dance Academy
Talent: Ballet dance to “Our Last Summer” from Mamma Mia
Favorite Broadway Show: Hadestown
Community Service Highlight: Helping with activities at the Harvest Hootenany
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Kenni Howe
Daughter of: Sarah and Albert Howe
Sponsored by: Savage Feed and Carlson’s Tire Pros
Talent: Informative demonstration of women’s empowerment and self defense
Favorite Broadway Show: The Play that Went Wrong
Community Service Highlight: Coaching at youth basketball and volleyball camps
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Delilah Delgado
Daughter of: Samantha and Jared Delgado
Sponsored by: Egan Ranch and the American Legion
Talent: Speaking on the “Power of Resilience and Effort”
Favorite Broadway Show: Grease
Community Service Highlight: The Built Beyond Softball Project, founded by Delilah and teammate Patti Carvalho
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Adelin McClure
Daughter of: Bethany and Erik Edholm and Breanna and Daniel McClure
Sponsored by: Kirack Construction and All Season and Air Inc.
Talent: Vocal solo, “Home: Honoring our Community and Country”
Favorite Broadway Show: Hamilton
Community Service Highlight: Co-teaching hip hop at Mt. Lassen Dance Academy
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Grace Steward
Daughter of: Stefanie and Jesse Steward
Sponsored by: Thompson Peak Lavender and Nicomi Injects
Talent: Point dance to “Din Daa Daa”
Favorite Broadway Show: Wicked
Community Service Highlight: Hosting Little Kickette camp
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Peyton Cantu
Daughter of: Kayla Wheeler and Chase Cantu
Sponsored by: Chittock Law and Fink Funeral Home
Talent: Lassen County’s best qualities through the Language of Flowers
Favorite Broadway Show: Annie
Community Service Highlight: Helping the Salvation Army
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Kseniya Baesman
Daughter of: Daniella and Justin Baesman
Sponsored by: Andy Moore of Greystone Townhomes and Jodi Henry, Realtor
Talent: Lyrical dance to “Stole the Show”
Favorite Broadway Show: Funny Girl
Community Service Highlight: Apprenticing young dancers at Princess Camp
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The last thing to remember, is to buy your tickets now! Click here to purchase them online or stop by the fair office on Russell Avenue. See you on Tuesday, July 14th at 7:00 at the Lassen County Fair’s first grandstand show of the season.
Remember when news was ‘newsy’? When you read about weddings, family events and engagement announcements in the newspaper? If you have something that might be newsworthy, please submit it to shelleybennett24@gmail.com and I’ll do my best to include it here in “The Good Stuff.”
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Arts Council to Host Songwriting Workshop with Award-Winning Artist Richard Elloyan
The Lassen County Arts Council invites the community to a unique creative experience this Friday, July 10th, when award-winning songwriter Richard Elloyan will lead another special hands-on workshop designed to help participants master the art of storytelling through song.
The Song Writer’s Workshop with Richard Elloyan will take place from 5:30 to 7:30p.m. Attendees will have the opportunity to learn from a seasoned performer known for his unique wit and imagination. Whether you are an aspiring musician or a seasoned writer, the class is designed to spark creativity and connection.
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Richard Elloyan brings a wealth of experience and a deep connection to the West to his teaching. Growing up in the historic mining town of Virginia City, Elloyan uses his love for the region’s rich history and magnificent vistas as a constant source of inspiration.
His work has been recognized across the western music circuit, with performances at major festivals and notable cowboy poetry gatherings. Elloyan’s songwriting prowess is well-regarded in the industry; his songs have been recorded by acclaimed artists including Lacy J. Dalton, Dave Stamey, Bill Barwick, Devon Dawson, Belinda Gail and Curley Musgrave.
In addition to his performance career, Elloyan recently spent two years completing his master’s degree in English and Creative Writing, bringing a polished academic perspective to the craft of lyrical storytelling.
The Songwriters Workshop will be held at the Arts Council Gallery on Cottage Street. Supplies and light snacks will be provided for all attendees.
Space is limited, so early registration is encouraged to secure a spot. To register, please email info@lassencountyartscouncil.org.
Come learn, create, and be inspired by one of the region’s most celebrated songwriters!
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BLM Offers $1 Firewood Permits for Dixie Fire Clean-Up Near Chester Airport
The Bureau of Land Management is offering $1 firewood permits to collect downed trees burned in the 2021 Dixie Fire on BLM-managed public land near the Chester Airport.
This low-cost permit provides individuals and families with the opportunity to collect their own firewood on public land for $1 per cord, while helping remove dead trees. Clearing these trees supports healthier, more resilient forests, and improves habitat for a variety of plants and wildlife.
Permit and Collection Details
Firewood permits for collection in this area can be purchased online at forestproducts.blm.gov and will remain available until all downed trees have been collected.
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Those participating can find the designated collection boundaries on the Chester Airport Parcel Fuelwood Collection Area map, and woodcutters are reminded to please keep vehicles on existing roads at all times while collecting firewood.
Anyone with questions regarding the permits or boundaries can contact the BLM Eagle Lake Field Office at 1.530.257.0456.
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Lassen County Public Health Hosting Annual Back to School Bash August 5th
Lassen County Public Health is gearing up for the new school year and inviting local families to their annual Back to School Bash! The special community event will take place on Wednesday, August 5th, from 3:00p.m. to 7:00p.m. at Jensen Hall inside the Lassen County Fairgrounds.
The primary goal of this event is to help local students start the school year feeling prepared, confident and ready to succeed, which organizers note is only possible through the generous support of the community.
Families attending can look forward to a wide variety of fun activities and essential resources, including free immunizations, school supplies, and dental supplies.
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The event will also offer oral health assessments, children’s haircuts, access to the Threads of Love clothing closet, along with plenty of food and games. These services are available on a first-come, first-served basis for children and teens ages 4 to 18, and children must be present to receive them.
Please note that this is a completely tobacco, smoke and vape-free event.
Lassen County Public Health is currently welcoming community partners, businesses, and organizations who would like to participate or make a donation to help support local students and families.
For more information, to learn how to get involved, or to ask questions about the event, please call 1.530.251.8392. You can also reach out via email to MPierce@co.lassen.ca.us or KCalvillo-Hefner@co.lassen.ca.us.
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Lassen College to Host Summer
Volleyball Camps for All Ages
Lassen College is gearing up for its annual Summer Volleyball Camp, offering local youth the chance to sharpen their skills, stay active, and learn from dedicated camp counselors. This year’s camps feature sessions tailored for multiple age groups, with events taking place at both Lassen College’s Bob Genasci Sports Complex in Susanville and a special session in Westwood.
The action kicks off with the Lassen High School Camp, which is designed for incoming 9th through 12th graders. This session runs on July 30th from 1:00p.m. to 4:00p.m. and continues on July 31st from 9:00a.m. to 4:00p.m. at the Bob Genasci Sports Complex.
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Players attending this high school session will need to bring a packed lunch for the full day of camp on July 31st.
Following the high school session, the camp moves to Westwood on August 1st for an all-ages community session. This camp runs from 9:00a.m. to 4:00p.m., and participants are reminded to bring their own lunch for the day.
Later in the month, the younger athletes get their turn during the Lassen Littles Camp, which welcomes incoming 1st through 8th graders. This camp takes place back at the Bob Genasci Sports Complex from August 10th through August 12th, running from 1:00p.m. to 4:00p.m. each day, and registration includes a camp t-shirt.
To ensure a safe and productive environment, camp counselors will provide constant supervision and act as positive role models for all campers. Parents can drop off their athletes starting 30 minutes prior to the beginning of each session. Campers should arrive wearing appropriate athletic attire along with comfortable, non-marking athletic shoes. For safety, long hair must be tied up in a hair tie at all times, and everyone should bring a personal water bottle to stay hydrated.
Cost of the Lassen Littles and Lassen High School camps are $100, the Westwood camp is $75.
If you are interested in signing up, you can click here to download a registration form. Registration forms will also be available to fill out on-site on the day of the camp, and a completed form is strictly required for anyone to participate. Camp checks should be made payable to the Lassen College Volleyball Foundation, or they can be mailed ahead of time to Lassen College, PO Box 3000, Susanville, CA 96130.
For any questions or additional information regarding the upcoming volleyball camps, please feel free to call or text Katelyn at 1.530.249.7058.
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Humane Society Launches New Spay and Neuter Program for Cats and Dogs
The Lassen Humane Society has launched a new Spay and Neuter Incentive Program to help local pet owners care for their dogs and cats. Limited vouchers are available to assist with the costs of these procedures.
It is important to note that these vouchers are not available through local veterinarian offices and must be requested directly through the program’s specific instructions.
The program offers a voucher of up to $100 for dog or cat procedures. These can be redeemed at local veterinary clinics at the time of service, or they can be used for reimbursement if you choose to go to an out-of-area veterinarian.
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To qualify for the program, you must be a resident of Lassen County. Because funds are limited, only five vouchers are issued each week, and they are handed out strictly in the order that requests are received.
To request a voucher, the Lassen Humane Society recommends calling on Sunday to leave a voicemail at 1.530.257.4555. When you leave your message, you must include your name, phone number, address, and specify whether the voucher is for a dog or a cat.
If you are selected to receive a voucher for that week, you will be contacted directly with pickup instructions. If you do not receive a call or a text message, it means the weekly allotment has already been filled, and you are encouraged to try calling again the following week.
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SUSANVILLE had a big two day Fourth of July celebration in 1916. There were races on July 3 with the winners being as follows: Will Long, saddle horse race for men; Raymond Raker, saddle horse race for boys; Mrs. Ruth Spalding, saddle horse race for women; Wilbur DeCarlow, foot race, free for all. The picture above is of the parade on Main Street. Leading the parade was the Westwood band followed by ladies on horseback, autos and floats. A $10 prize was awarded for the best decorated auto.
Susanville’s Celebration
July 7, 1916
Old-Time Observance of the National Birthday Calls Out a Record Crowd
The Advocate would have to enlarge its limits were it to attempt an account of the various noticeable features of the celebration of the Fourth of July in Susanville. It cannot do this, nor is it so disposed. The things which attracted the greatest interest, the things that deserve the greatest commendation, are doubtless the things that escaped the reportorial eye, or may have been; and it is sufficient to note the events that those who did not see may best appreciate from a brief mention.
The celebration began on the 3rd, and was entirely in the hands of the Susanville Fire Department, and the character of the celebration was of a nature designed to benefit that organization and help it to build itself up into an efficient and powerful body. It may be said that the citizens of the town contributed liberally to this end, fully understanding the motive, but there were many from the outside who imagined that the observance of the day was a general town function.
This misapprehension may have led to some wrong conclusions with respect to the management of the celebration, but it is thought these will not reflect seriously upon the directors of the affair or the reputation of the town.
The program as announced in the Advocate was pretty closely followed, and was decidedly interesting throughout. There were the usual delays incident to getting people together on time, and at times a conflict of functions that led to undesirable conditions. Especially was this noticeable during the progress of the literary exercises on the afternoon of the Fourth.
Just at the time Roscoe E. Jones of Oakland was delivering his address at the big open-air dance platform, a broncho-bursting contest was in progress at the upper end of Main street, and this drew the bigger portion of the crowd away from the speaker. It was an unfortunate conflict, for Mr. Jones should have been greeted with an audience ten times as large as that assembled to hear him, and probably would have been but for the “broncs.”
Beginning on the 3rd, under the enlivening strains of the Westwood band and a cloudless sky, there was very little time wasted between the opening concert and the close of the dance on the open-air platform just after midnight on the fourth. The races on the morning of the 3rd were good, and winners and prizes for these events are announced as follows:
Saddle horse race for men, won by Will Long.
Saddle horse race for boys, won by Raymond Raker.
Saddle horse race for women, won by Mrs. Ruth Spalding.
Foot race, free for all, won by Wilbur DeCarlow.
The baseball game in the afternoon was an easy victory for the Westwood team as was to have been expected since Susanville has no regular organization.
The morning hours of the Fourth were taken up with the firemen’s contests. Only the Westwood and Susanville teams were contenders, the Alturas men failing to show up. Great interest was manifested in these stunts, and it was difficult at times to force the crowds back so that the fire laddies could have room.
The first event was the hose cart race between the teams over a measured course of six hundred feet. Westwood’s boys were dressed for the occasion in running togs, while the Susanville lads were attired as they would be practically at any time when responding to a day alarm. Notwithstanding this handicap Susanville made the race two seconds quicker than their competitors, but were penalized two seconds because of an error in affixing the nozzle to the hose, and Westwood was declared the winner by less than a second. Westwood’s time was :37 flat.
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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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