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Volume XVIII Issue 220
Friday, June 5th, 2026
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Photofeature: Lassen Law Enforcement Torch Run for Special Olympics
A SusanvilleStuff Photofeature
by Jeremy Couso
Runners, walkers, and bike riders braved a torrential downpour last Tuesday as members of local law enforcement agencies, along with a host of volunteers and supporters, carried the official Special Olympics Torch through town for the fifth annual Lassen Law Enforcement Torch Run.
The May 28th event began with a necessarily brief ceremony, with the crowd sheltering under trees in front of the old courthouse while the rain poured down.
Each year, law enforcement agencies all over Northern California raise thousands of dollars by hosting fundraising events that support Special Olympics programs. Lassen’s event features law enforcement personnel raising funds for the honor of running the Special Olympics Torch—”The Flame of Hope”—through town as a sign of their dedication and commitment to Special Olympics athletes.
The runners, soaked to the skin, made their way down Main Street to Rob’s Way and then to the new Hall of Justice, where a small, brave crowd lined the street to cheer on the participants. At the end of the run, Barbara Oxford and her team from Golden 1 Credit Union were on hand to pass out well-deserved drinks and goodies.
How You Can Help
So far, the local event has raised $1,225 for the Special Olympics, and there is still time to make a contribution to the Torch Run.
Please consider contributing to this great cause and supporting the incredible efforts of our local law enforcement and volunteer community. Every dollar helps support these amazing athletes.
Click here to make an online contribution.
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The Blue Line Fly Fishing Outdoors Report with Dean Growdon
What gear do I need to fly-fish?
This is a question I’m often asked, but the answer can be about as clear as mud. There are many fly rods, reels, lines, flies, and other tools and accessories, many of which are designed for very specific purposes.
For someone looking to get into the sport, the options can be both confusing and overwhelming. In this week’s article, I’ll describe the basics of fly-fishing equipment and offer some sensible advice on equipping yourself or a family member.
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Fly rods
Fly rods are sized by “weight” and come in a variety of lengths. A very simplified description would be: the lower the weight, the lighter the action (more flexible rod), which is used for smaller fish and smaller flies in lighter wind conditions; the higher the weight, the heavier the action (stiffer rod), which is used for larger fish, larger flies, and/or windier conditions.
A couple of examples would be a 3-weight rod for small panfish, small trout, and similar species, and a 10-weight rod for fly-fishing large saltwater species with large flies in windy conditions.
The best all-around rods in our region tend to be 5-weight or 6-weight rods. These rods can be used on streams, rivers, and lakes. If you primarily fish stillwater (lakes), then a 6-weight is probably the better choice.
The 6-weight can handle the larger fish in some of our lakes and reservoirs and allow you to land and release them, if you so choose, in a timelier fashion, improving the odds that the fish will survive. The 6-weight also has more power to cast into the wind and to cast heavier multiple-fly and indicator (bobber) rigs.
If you primarily fish rivers and streams, a 5-weight is probably the better choice for a first rod. The 5-weight is often considered the best all-around fly rod. It can be used in stillwater applications but is also an excellent choice for streams and rivers.
The action is light enough to present dry flies effectively, but heavy enough to cast indicators and nymphs.
As far as length goes, 9′ is the standard, but longer rods in lengths of 9’6″ and even 10′ are becoming more popular. Longer rods can improve casting distance and reach and help keep your flies out of rocks and bushes behind you, but the extra length also adds swing weight, which can increase fatigue in your casting arm. For a new angler, a 9′ rod is a good and readily available option.
As far as brands go, there is a wide range of manufacturers and prices. I own a variety of rods from different manufacturers and at different price points—Orvis, Scott, Echo, T.F.O., Redington, Hardy, etc. I have a few that I use all the time and some that I use in very specific situations, but the ones I use most often are a Scott 9’6″ 6-weight and a Hardy 9′ 5-weight. These two rods have an action that matches my casting style and have brought many fish to my net.
The best way to figure out which fly rod works for you is to go to a fly shop and try some out or take a fly-fishing class that lets you cast a variety of rods. Each person is different, and it is best to find what works for you.
Reels
The primary purpose of a fly reel is to hold your line. Most of the time, you will have line lying at your feet or in the water in front of you, and the reel simply holds the excess. When you hook a fish, you will primarily strip the line to land it rather than reel it in as you would with a standard baitcaster or spinning reel. Occasionally, you may hook a fish and end up using the reel to fight it.
The two primary types of reels are click-pawl reels and drag-system reels. Click-pawl reels do not have a drag system; you use the palm of your hand to apply pressure to the spool to provide “drag,” whereas drag reels have an adjustable drag system to control the pressure on the spool and the speed at which line goes out.
I tend to use click-pawl reels on lighter-weight rods (1–3 weight) and drag reels for everything else. When choosing a reel, just make sure it is sized to hold the weight of the line you’re using.
Lines
I could write for days about the variety of lines available, their specific purposes, tapers, and so on. For a first line, I recommend a floating, weight-forward line. This line is the most versatile and will meet your needs in most situations.
Lines are sized by weight just like fly rods, and you need to ensure that the weight of your fly line matches the weight of your rod—a 5-weight rod should have a 5-weight line. Fly line is one area where you should try to get the best you can afford. A high-quality line can make a huge difference in castability and line management, as well as shaping your overall experience.
In addition to the fly line, you will need backing that goes on the reel first and is attached to the butt of your fly line, and leaders that attach to the end of your fly line, to which your flies are tied. A good way to choose a fly line, leaders, and related items is to seek out a professional at a fly shop to guide you through the various options.
Flies
Flies tend to be specific to the waters you are fishing and the bug hatches occurring at that time. Many fly shops offer online fishing reports that identify current hatches and the flies they recommend. Again, your best bet with flies is to seek out a shop with experienced staff to guide you.
Other items
Hemostats or small pliers are handy for pinching barbs for catch-and-release and unhooking fish. Nippers or clippers are essential for cutting your line. You will also need a fly box to hold your flies and something to carry it, along with tools, water, etc. There are a variety of fishing vests, packs, and other systems to choose from.
Some things you may not absolutely need but that can be very useful include waders so you can get into the water without getting wet, a wading staff to help you wade safely in slippery conditions, a first-aid kit, and an emergency communication device.
I know this list looks extensive, but a little bit of research and some smart shopping can get you into the sport without breaking the bank. In the end, I’ve found the investment well worth it, because fly-fishing has taken me to many beautiful places that I likely wouldn’t have seen otherwise.
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Join the Fun: Entries Open for
the Lassen County Fair Parade!
The Lassen County Fair Parade is coming to Main Street Susanville on Saturday, July 18th, and groups all over town are already busy building floats and planning entries. If you want to showcase your business, club, or organization to the entire community, now is the time to get involved!
Coordinated by the Lassen County Chamber of Commerce, this year’s parade kicks off at 10:00a.m. It’s the perfect opportunity to show off your creativity, community spirit and fair pride.
Compete for the Blue Ribbon
Whether you are riding, walking, driving, or decorating, you have a chance to take home some bragging rights. Ribbons will be awarded for 1st, 2nd and 3rd place across more than 21 different categories, split into two divisions:
- Senior Division: Participants over 18 years of age
- Junior Division: Participants 18 years of age or younger
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Important Safety Reminder
To keep our roadside spectators safe, parade participants may only distribute candy or other items by hand. Throwing, tossing, dropping, or using pressurized candy cannons to launch items into the crowd is strictly prohibited.
How to Register
Don’t wait until the last minute to join the excitement. Gather your friends, polish up those classic cars and tractors, and get your entry ready! Entries must be submitted by July 15th, and you can submit your parade entry form online here.
Questions? For more information, contact the Chamber of Commerce office at 1.530.257.4323.
Let’s make this year’s trip down Main Street the biggest and best one yet!
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Round-Up at ACE Hardware This Month to Support the Monticola Club
Want to get some great summer deals on hardware while supporting a great cause? Susanville Ace Hardware is using their “Round Up” program to raise money for the Susanville Monticola Club all through the month of June.
Each time you purchase something at ACE this month, the staff will ask you if you would like to round-up to the nearest dollar for the Susanville Monticola Club’s programs.
“Each year we award three scholarships to local Lassen High School graduates, and one scholarship to a local Lassen College graduate,” explains Monticola spokesperson Naomi Turner.
“We would like to thank our community for visiting and rounding-up their purchases.”
Simply stop by Ace Hardware for all you hardware, gift and irrigation needs then, at the cash register, tell them you would like to “Round up” and donate to Susanville Monticola Club.
Your donation supports a 113-year-old club that assists local youth through scholarships and leadership programs each year. The club also takes on community beautification projects (Parks, Swimming Pool, Daffodil & tree plantings) and community service programs, including food collection for seniors and students, blood drives and replanting our forests.
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Have a special event coming up and wondering where to have it? The Monticola Club House at 140 South Lassen Street could meet that need with 1,500 square feet of indoor space able to fit 170, a fully equipped kitchen and it is also handicap accessible.
To view the Clubhouse or for more information, please contact the building manager, Patty Davie, at 1.530.257.9220.
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Lassen Family Services to Host 2nd Annual Senior Information Fair June 15th
In recognition of World Elder Abuse Awareness Day, Lassen Family Services is inviting the community to celebrate and support our local seniors at their 2nd Annual Senior Info Fair being held Monday, June 15th, from 10:00a.m. to 2:00p.m. at the Lassen Senior Center.
The Senior Info Fair serves as a vital resource hub for seniors and their families. Attendees can gather essential information on issues related to aging, connect with local service providers, and meet with businesses dedicated to helping with planning for the later stages of life.
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Event Highlights include:
Vendors & Information Booths: Connect with organizations specializing in senior care and resources.
Free Lunch: A complimentary lunch will be provided for seniors aged 60 and older.
Community Connection: A chance to network with local businesses and service providers.
Call for Vendors
Lassen Family Services is currently seeking vendors to participate in this year’s fair. This is an excellent opportunity for local businesses and organizations to showcase their services directly to the senior community and provide valuable information to those who need it most.
Meet Lisa Murana
Lassen Family Services is also introducing Lisa Murana, their new Elder and Dependent Abuse Specialist. Lisa is available to assist the community and is the primary point of contact for this event.
If you would like to sign up for a vendor booth or have any questions regarding the event, please reach out to Murana at 1.530.257.4599.
This project was supported by funding awarded through the California Governor’s Office of Emergency Services.
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Susanville Air Fair Brings Aviation Excitement to the Susanville Airport Tomorrow
Calling all aviation enthusiasts! Everybody is invited to come join in the fun tomorrow, June 6th, for the annual Susanville Air Fair, featuring neat airplanes, classic cars and a host of fun activities for the whole family.
The event will feature fly-ins by pilots and aircraft from all over the west coast, an aircraft display and remote-control airplane demos.
The tarmac at the Susanville airport will be filled with all sorts of interesting aircraft to explore including airships from multiple government agencies and unique home-built planes.
The day begins with a pancake breakfast from 7:00 until 10:00, and food and beverages will be available on the field during the show.
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The always popular helicopter rides around the valley, giving fairgoers a unique perspective of the airport for a small fee, will return this year.
Classic cars will be on display right next to the planes on the field, and the popular Craft Fair will return.
All proceeds from the event will fund aviation related scholarships and activities by the local Experimental Aircraft Association.
Remember this is a great photo opportunity so charge up those batteries and bring your cameras.
The Susanville Municipal Airport is located at 471-920 Johnstonville Road. For more information call 1.530.257.2030.
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LHS Girl Tracksters
June 5, 1980
Advocate photo by Terry Wood
Pictured above are most of the members of this year’s girls track team at Lassen High which had four members qualify for the North Section Finals (hurdler Sue Deese, sprinter Jessica Boal and two milers Judy Smith and Jeanine Miller) and one (Deese) qualify for this weekend’s California State Championships in Berkeley.
Pictured from left are: Back row — Deese, Audrey Hemphill, Dena Dixon, Denise Lindstrom, April Bates, Jody Johnston, Toni Angius, Jamie Sweeney, Dea Mae Deaton, Judy Smith, Katy Harvey, Lisa Clark, Gloria Garro and Becky Rice.
Front row — Sue Wheeler, Angie Genasci, Michele Michael, Renee Akers, Jessica Boal, Melissa Haugen, Nicki Edwards and Coach Cindy Gardner.
Among those not pictured are Jeanine Miller and Ronda Prows.
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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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