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Volume XVIII Issue 224
Thursday, June 11th, 2026
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Biz Buzz: Local Business News for June 11th
By Marshel Couso
Welcome to our weekly feature dedicated to covering Susanville and Lassen County’s business scene! Grand openings, new employees, renovations, new hours… each week we’ll keep you up to date with important information about the businesses you rely on.
Jenny Holmes and Smith Properties
Over the next few weeks here in Biz Buzz we will be featuring real estate professionals from Smith Properties in Susanville.
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Jenny Holmes is a dedicated real estate professional with Smith Properties, proudly serving buyers and sellers throughout Lassen County, Plumas County, and communities across Northern California. Her passion for interior design and home aesthetics naturally led her into a successful career in real estate, where she combines creativity, market expertise, and a genuine love for helping people achieve their real estate goals.
Holmes believes every home has a unique story and hidden potential. She enjoys discovering the beauty in each property and helping connect homes with new owners who will create the next chapter in their lives. Whether it’s a charming mountain cabin, a family home, a luxury property, or vacant land, she understands how to showcase a property’s best features and maximize its appeal in today’s market.
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Since earning her real estate license, Holmes has consistently ranked among the area’s top-producing agents, earning recognition for her strong work ethic, exceptional customer service, and impressive sales performance. Her commitment to her clients, attention to detail, and deep knowledge of Northern California real estate have made her a trusted resource for both first-time buyers and experienced investors.
Known for her honesty, professionalism, and personalized approach, Holmes works tirelessly to ensure every transaction is as smooth and successful as possible. She understands that buying or selling a home is one of life’s most significant decisions and is honored to guide her clients through every step of the process.
Whether you’re looking to buy, sell, invest, or simply explore your options, she is committed to helping you find the perfect property and turn your real estate dreams into reality.
| | | Give Jenny a call at 1.530.249.5445, email at Jennyholmesdre@gmail.com, or visit her socials at Facebook Jenny Holmes or Instagram Jennyholmesrealtor1 | | |
Local Author Chris Rochette Book Signing at Margie’s Book Nook This Saturday!
Calling all sci-fi fans! Janesville science fiction author Chris Rochette will be hosting a special book signing this Saturday, June 13th, from 1:00 to 3:00p.m. at Margie’s Book Nook in uptown Susanville.
Rochette will be signing copies of his novel, The Outer Rings: Hic Salta. Set in the far reaches of our solar system, the book dives into a timeless struggle between two human ideologies: those who advance by harnessing the natural powers of the universe, and those who try to advance in opposition to them.
If you love the realistic, grounded science of The Martian blended with the gritty, high-stakes action of The Expanse, this is a local release you won’t want to miss.
Stop by Margie’s Book Nook this Saturday to grab your copy, meet the author, and support local talent!
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Diamond Mountain Casino and Hotel Welcomes Erik Estrada
It was a weekend of high-stakes fun and Hollywood nostalgia as 1970s TV icon Erik Estrada rolled into town for a special promotion at the Diamond Mountain Casino and Hotel.
Marking the casino’s second CHiPS-themed evening, the event was a massive hit with local residents who turned out in droves to meet “Ponch” himself. Estrada proved to be a genial host, spending the night mingling with guests, signing autographs and posing for photos.
The celebration wasn’t just about star power, though. The casino handed out massive payouts, including a $2,500 CASH Grand Prize to a lucky local winner.
In a social media post, Diamond Mountain Casino and Hotel shared their gratitude for the overwhelming turnout:
“Thank you to everyone who came out and made this such a fun and memorable event. We appreciate the amazing support from our community and loved celebrating with you all! Until next time, Susanville!”
Ponch About Town
Estrada didn’t just stay cooped up at the casino, either—he spent the weekend truly immersing himself in the Susanville community. Eagle-eyed residents spotted the TV legend over at Walmart, where he took time to chat with fans and snap selfies in the aisles. Later, he was seen enjoying dinner at Bing’s, where he hung out with fellow diners and took more pictures.
| | Is something noteworthy happening with your business? Let us know about it! Each Thursday morning, we present a round-up of interesting news from the Lassen County business scene and we want to hear from you. E-mail your business news to Marshel at mcouso@susanvillestuff.com. | | |
Lassen County School Administrators
Association Honors 2026 Students of the Year
The Association of California School Administrators Lassen County Charter recently recognized its 2026 Students of the Year, celebrating exceptional students whose leadership, perseverance, character and commitment to learning have made a positive impact on their schools and communities.
According to the Lassen County Office of Education, these outstanding individuals represent schools from across Lassen County. They were selected for their academic achievements, dedication, and ability to serve as role models for their peers.
LCOE noted that the recognition highlights not only the students’ success in the classroom but also the positive influence they have on those around them through their involvement, determination, and leadership.
The Lassen County Office of Education extended its congratulations to all of this year’s honorees, celebrating the bright future ahead for these remarkable students. LCOE officials added that their accomplishments reflect the strength of local schools, families and communities, and expressed immense pride in recognizing their achievements. (LCOE photo)
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Lassen Municipal Utility District Lowers Electric Rates by 2.5 Percent
Local residents will see a welcome drop in their utility bills following a vote by the Lassen Municipal Utility District Board of Directors to decrease electric rates by 2.5 percent.
The adjustment lowers LMUD’s residential rate from 19.5 cents down to 19 cents per kilowatt-hour. Customers will see the savings reflected in their very next billing cycle, and the rate decrease will be applied across all utility rate classes.
As a community-owned utility, LMUD’s rates remain significantly lower than neighboring investor-owned utilities. For comparison, Pacific Gas & Electric’s average residential rate hovers between 42 and 45 cents per kilowatt-hour—more than double LMUD’s new 19-cent rate.
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“Following our quarterly review of rates, I’m pleased to share that the LMUD Board of Directors has approved a 2.5% decrease in rates,” said LMUD General Manager Nick Dominguez. “This rate decrease is made possible by forward thinking financial planning and reflects our commitment to providing safe, reliable and affordable service while continuing to invest in a reliable and resilient electric system.”
Dominguez emphasized the benefits of the public utility model for local customers.
“As your community owned utility, every decision we make is about serving our friends and neighbors, not shareholders. We’re proud to pass these savings back to you, and we’ll keep working hard to ensure your utility remains strong and sustainable for years to come.”
If you have any questions regarding the upcoming rate change, you can contact LMUD directly at 530-257-4174.
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Devil’s Corral Project Restarts: Motorists Should Expect Delays on Highway 36
Travelers driving on Highway 36 between Susanville and Westwood will need to budget some extra travel time when they drive over the hill between now and September. Caltrans District 2 has announced that construction work on the Devil’s Corral Safety Project has begun again, an extensive safety initiative that covers a long stretch of the mountain highway.
According to state transportation officials, motorists should prepare for one-way traffic control in the project area, which spans from approximately 6.5 miles east of the Goodrich Creek Bridge to the Willard Creek Road access point.
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Caltrans advises that standard delays through the construction zone will fluctuate up to 15 minutes. However, drivers are warned that longer delays of up to 25 minutes may occur at times when specialized construction operations force traffic to travel over unpaved surfaces.
Construction Schedule & Delay Details:
Monday through Thursday: One-way traffic control in effect from 7:00a.m. to 7:00p.m.
Friday: One-way traffic control in effect from 7:00a.m. to 3:00p.m.
Special Operations: Delays may extend up to 25 minutes when construction activities require driving on unpaved surfaces.
The $16.7 million safety project is aimed at modernizing and improving the safety profile of State Route 36. To achieve this, crews will be actively widening highway shoulders, upgrading drainage culverts, relocating utilities, and adding rumble strips to prevent roadway departures. Additionally, extensive vegetation removal will be conducted along the corridor to significantly improve solar exposure, which helps melt ice and snow faster during winter months.
If everything goes according to schedule, the entire project is expected to be finalized and completed by the end of September.
Caltrans reminds all motorists to please slow down when approaching the construction area, remain alert and watch closely for highway crews and heavy equipment.
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Performers from J and J Take the Stage This Weekend for Cinderella Recital
Glass slippers, enchanted pumpkins and breathtaking choreography are all on the program this Friday and Saturday, June 12th and 13th as dancers from J and J Performing Arts take the stage for their highly anticipated spring recital based on the timeless classic, Cinderella.
The magical production will take over the Lassen Community College Gym for a two-day run featuring two distinct show formats designed to highlight the incredible range and growth of Susanville’s local dance talent.
According to J and J Performing Arts owner Jessica Wade, the weekend is structured to offer audiences an immersive, high-energy experience. The performances will be split into an early afternoon “Mini Show” at 2:30p.m. and an evening “Main Show” beginning at 7:00p.m. on both days.
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“The mini shows, which involve our 18-month to 7-year-old dancers along with advanced classes and soloists, will be full of the cutest and strongest dancers,” Wade said.
“The main show will include our dancers ages 6 and older, and again all our soloists. It will be full of flips, kicks, and some beautiful works of dance art.”
The production features a talented cast of local soloists stepping into iconic fairytale roles. Kaylee Micone will lead the production as Cinderella, capturing the grace and magic of the beloved heroine. Delivering dramatic flair and theatrical contrast, Bailee Avila will take the stage as the Evil Stepmother, while Kyannah Johnson will bring magic to life as the Fairy Godmother.
Audiences can also look forward to appearances by the hilarious evil stepsisters, as well as Cinderella’s loyal companion mice, Gus and Ralfie. Beyond the traditional storybook elements, the recital will display a massive variety of dance genres. Wade noted that attendees will see the full breadth of the studio’s curriculum, spanning everything from high-energy hip-hop routines to elegant and precise pointe work.
“It’s going to be an extraordinary weekend of storytelling and movement,” Wade added. “Come laugh, cry, be in awe, and simply enjoy an amazing show.”
Community members looking to attend the event are encouraged to purchase their tickets early. Tickets are available at Zaengles Home Store and Margie’s Book Nook.
Attending the recital also directly serves local youth programs. J and J Performing Arts shared that 100 percent of the ticket proceeds go right back into the community, covering the production costs of the show and directly funding the studio’s ongoing scholarship programs, ensuring that dance education remains accessible to local children.
For more information visit jandjperformingarts.com or call 1.530.260.1575.
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Alliance For Workforce Development Hosts Exclusive Summer Hiring Event June 17th
Alliance For Workforce Development is bringing an incredible opportunity directly to local job seekers next month. On June 17th, AFWD will be hosting an Exclusive Summer Hiring Event simultaneously across four regional locations—including right here in Susanville—connecting eager applicants with a curated group of select businesses ready to hire and provide training.
According to the AFWD this isn’t just another standard job fair; it is a fast-paced, high-impact opportunity designed to bridge the gap between motivated job seekers and community employers who have immediate openings.
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Whether you are a student looking for summer work, a professional looking to change career paths, or someone ready to re-enter the workforce, this event was built for you.
What to Expect:
Actively Hiring: Meet face-to-face with employers who are actively looking to fill immediate, open roles.
Entry-Level Friendly: Many participating employers are willing and ready to train you into your new role—no extensive background required.
Training Support Available: Learn how On-the-Job Training support can be made available to help set you up for long-term career success.
Real Connections: Make a lasting impression and secure “Stronger Futures” through direct, in-person networking.
Here in Susanville the event will be held at 1626 Main St., Suite B, from 10:00a.m. until 12:00p.m. For more information contact Shania Pacheco at 1.530.616.0778.
The event is also taking place at the exact same time in three other regional hubs:
Chico: 500 Cohasset Rd, Suite 30 | Contact: Norma Navarro 1.530.616.1549
Oroville: 78 Table Mountain Blvd | Contact: Valarie Mello 1.530.616.0847
Grass Valley: 988 McCourtney Rd | Contact: Maryanne Connelley 1.530.251.3129
How to Prepare:
Pre-registration for the event is highly encouraged to streamline your entry. You can pre-register online today by visiting the AFWD Registration Form.
Be sure to dress for success, bring multiple copies of your resume, bring your questions, and come ready with the drive to build your next step. Don’t miss out on endless possibilities in just two short hours!
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The newly built Roosevelt School on Richmond Road in an undated Eastman Studio photo
Site Selected for New School Building
June 11, 1925
The board of trustees of the Susanville grammar school district have decided to locate the new school building provided for in the late bond election on the west side of Richmond road at a point on top of the hill south of the Southern Pacific tracks.
The contract for clearing the ground and the excavation was let this week to Walter Pegden and he has already commenced work.
Plans for the new buildings are being prepared by Architect Taylor and it is believed that the new building will be ready for use by the first of the year. The building will be of reinforced concrete.
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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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