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Volume XVIII Issue 205
Friday, May 15th, 2026
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Blue Line Fly Fishing Outdoors
Report with Dean Growdon
Fishing Derby Time – And Other Thoughts About Streams That Open Soon
by Dean Growdon
The Lassen Sportsmen’s Club will be hosting the 37th Junior Fishing Derby this Saturday, May 16th. This event is unique for many reasons, but the most significant is that the California Department of Fish and Wildlife regulations specifically authorize it to occur on the Saturday prior to the opening day of the general fishing season. This exception applies only to youth under the age of 16 who are registered for the fishing derby.
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The derby is made possible by volunteers like Wade Workman, Don Spalding, Jim Chapman and many others, as well as by generous donations from local businesses, government agencies, and individuals.
Trout are purchased from a private hatchery, along with some provided by the California Department of Fish and Wildlife. The trout are planted in the Susan River and in a section of Paiute Creek reserved for the youngest participants.
This event provides an excellent opportunity to introduce youth to fishing. Although some locations along the river become crowded, there are usually several places where families can get away from the crowds and enjoy a quiet morning on the water.
For many young anglers, this derby is their first chance to feel a tug on the line, learn how to handle a fish, and build memories that will last a lifetime.
“Fishmas” and Our Local Opener
In much of California, “Fishmas” (the opening day of streams and some lakes) arrives in April each year. Here in Lassen and Plumas counties, we look forward instead to the Saturday preceding Memorial Day, which marks the opening of the fishing season at Eagle Lake, the tributaries to Lake Almanor, the Susan River and many other area streams.
As a child, I counted down the days to this magical time every year. Whether it was freezing in the morning at Eagle Lake, catching little planters at Clear Creek Park, or fishing at Hamilton Branch, that day always signified the beginning of another summer of fishing. We may not have a catchy name like “Fishmas,” but local fishermen know the date by heart and are surely looking forward to it.
With all of these opportunities coming our way, I encourage you to start carving out some time on the water. Take a child to the derby, revisit a favorite stream, or explore a new stretch of river. However you choose to spend it, get outside and enjoy the peace, the challenge, and all of God’s beauty that surrounds us.
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Lassen County Fair Announces Action-Packed Lineup for July 15th through 19th
The wait is over for fair fans! Lassen County Fair Manager Bill Payer has officially pulled back the curtain on the grandstand entertainment and grounds schedule for this year’s fair.
From high-octane motor sports to the crowning of local royalty and a massive musical celebration of America, the July 15th through 19th event promises something for everyone in Lassen County.
Click here to purchase tickets online!
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Tuesday, July 14th (Pre-Fair Kickoff)
The fun starts early with traditional favorites.
Gates Open: 4:30p.m.
4-H BBQ: 5:00p.m.
Miss Lassen County Pageant: 6:00p.m. in the Grandstand.
Tickets: $25.00 Festival / $15.00 Grandstand.
Wednesday, July 15th
Gates Open: 11:00a.m.
Ribbon Cutting Jensen Gate 12:00p.m.
Entertainment: Free grounds acts all day; JDX Jensen Stage offers free entertainment from open to close.
Lassen Transfer & Storage Free Stage: Timeless takes the stage at 7:00p.m.
Grandstand Event: Monster Trucks roar into the arena at 7:00p.m. (Ticket prices TBA).
Steel Drums JDX Stage 10PM
Thursday, July 16th – Kids Day
Gates Open: 11:00 a.m.
Lassen Transfer & Storage Free Stage: Rummy at 7:00p.m.
Grandstand Event: The CCPRA Rodeo begins at 7:00p.m.
Tickets: $25 Adults / $20 Seniors & Children (12 and under).
Steel Drums JDX Stage 10PM
Friday, July 17th – Seniors Day
Gates Open: 11:00a.m.
Free grounds acts throughout the day.
Old Timer Lunch under the grandstand 12:00p.m.
Lassen Transfer & Storage Free Stage: Outlaw Mariachi at 7:00p.m.
Grandstand Event: Micro Wrestling brings the big action to the Grandstand at 7:00p.m.
Tickets: $40 Ringside / $30 Festival / $20 Grandstand / $15 Seniors & Children (12 and under).
Saturday, July 18th
Lassen County Fair Parade 10a.m. on Main Street.
Gates Open: 11:00a.m. (Special Note: Admission is just $5 after 5:00 p.m.)
Grandstand Event: America’s 250th Music Fest
A massive musical showcase featuring Huckleberry Road, 90s country hits from Hazzard County and multi-generational dance hits from Radio Ready.
Tickets: $30 Festival / $25 Grandstand.
Grandstand Gates Open: 6:00 p.m.
Sunday, July 19th
Junior Livestock Auction 8:30a.m.
Gates Open: 11:00a.m.
Lassen Transfer & Storage Free Stage: Forgery at 7:00p.m.
Grandstand Event: The fair closes out with the fan-favorite Destruction Derby at 6:00p.m.
Tickets: $15 Grandstand / $10 Seniors & Children (12 and under).
Steel Drums JDX Stage 9:00p.m.
How to Get Tickets
Don’t wait until the gates open! You can secure your seats for all grandstand events online or in person. Online you can visit lassencountyfair.org, in person visit the Lassen County Fair Office on Russell Avenue.
Note: Free grounds acts and entertainment on the JDX Jensen Stage are available to all fairgoers throughout the day, Wednesday through Sunday.
Click here to head on over and purchase your tickets for the 2026 Lassen County Fair
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Susanville Police Department Raising Awareness During National Bike Safety Month
May is National Bicycle Safety Month, and the Susanville Police Department is reaching out to the community to share vital safety advice for both drivers and those on two wheels.
Whether it is children riding to school or older adults staying active, bicycling remains a primary mode of transportation and a beloved pastime for many Californians. To help ensure everyone reaches their destination safely, the department is urging all residents to remain alert and cautious.
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The importance of these safety measures is underscored by recent data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, which reported that 1,166 people were killed while riding bicycles on U.S. roads in 2023, with nearly 50,000 others injured.
In California alone, 145 bicyclists lost their lives in motor vehicle traffic crashes during that same period. In response to these figures, the Susanville Police Department will be conducting specialized traffic safety operations throughout the month.
These efforts will focus on dangerous driver behaviors such as speeding, making illegal turns, failing to yield the right of way, and running stop signs or red lights.
For those behind the wheel, safety begins with slowing down and strictly adhering to the speed limit, particularly when traveling through intersections. Drivers should look carefully for bicyclists and pedestrians before making any turns or opening car doors near streets and bike paths.
Patience is also essential; motorists are encouraged to give riders plenty of space and are reminded that California law requires drivers to change lanes when possible to pass a bicyclist, always maintaining a minimum of three feet of clearance. Most importantly, drivers must never operate a vehicle while distracted or impaired.
Bicyclists also play a key role in road safety by ensuring they are visible and predictable. Riders should always use lights when traveling at night and wear a properly secured helmet. While helmets are not legally required for riders 18 and older, they significantly reduce the risk of head injuries during a crash.
Bicyclists are required to travel in the same direction as traffic and must follow the same rules as any other slow-moving vehicle. Additionally, riders must yield to pedestrians in both marked and unmarked crosswalks as pedestrians maintain the right-of-way at intersections.
Funding for this safety program is provided through a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety, via the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. For more information regarding local safety initiatives, residents can contact the Susanville Police Department at 1.530.257.5603 or visit the station during business hours.
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Lassen County Old-Timers Gwen and Robert Baker
in the 2019 Fair Parade, driven by Fred Wemple and Jim Wolcott
Lassen County Fair Seeking Nominations
for Grand Marshal and Old Timer of the Year
Do you know someone who has made a lasting impact on Lassen County? Now is your chance to honor those who have built and shaped our community! The Lassen County Fair is officially accepting nominations for two of its most prestigious honors: Old Timer of the Year and Fair Parade Grand Marshal.
These awards represent a tradition of recognizing individuals whose dedication, kindness, and achievements make Lassen County a better place to live. If someone comes to mind when you think of service and community spirit, don’t miss the opportunity to nominate them.
Lassen County Fair Grand Marshal
The Grand Marshal award is a century-old tradition based on accomplishments and contributions to the community. Nominees are selected based on their impact on the quality of life in Lassen County through civic or social services, humanitarianism, or personal achievements in areas like the arts and sports.
Nominees should be current or long-term past residents of Lassen County.
The nominee must be willing to act as Grand Marshal and be able to attend the Lassen County Fair Parade on July 18th.
Old Timer of the Year
This award is judged on kindness and service to our community, honoring a senior who has demonstrated outstanding volunteerism, leadership or mentorship.
Nominees must be at least 60 years old and have lived in Lassen County for at least 10 years.
The nominee must be willing to act as Old Timer and be able to attend the Old Timer Luncheon on Friday, July 17th, and the Lassen County Fair Parade on July 18th.
How to Nominate
Click here to download the Old Timer of the Year Nomination Form.
Click her to download the Parade Grand Marshal Nomination Form.
More information can be found online at lassencountyfair.org or in person at the Fair Office. All entry forms must be received by Monday, June 8th, by 4:00p.m.
Submit by mail or stop by the Lassen County Fair Office, 195 Russell Avenue, Susanville, CA 96130. You can also email applications to lcfair@co.lassen.ca.us. For questions please call 1.530.251.8900.
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Time Running Out to Purchase CHP 140 Squad Club Spring Raffle Tickets
The California Highway Patrol’s 140 Squad Club is gearing up for the warmer months with its annual Spring Raffle, a community-driven effort to support local youth and you have just one week left to get your tickets. This year, all proceeds from the event are dedicated to purchasing market animals at the Jr. Livestock Auction, providing vital support to our young agricultural leaders.
Participants have the chance to win one of four impressive prizes just in time for summer adventures. The lineup includes a high-end Kimber 1911, a rugged 72Qt RTIC Ultra-Light Cooler, a Blackstone Adventure Grill for your next cookout and a Blackstone Firepit to anchor your backyard gatherings.
Tickets are priced at $20 each, or you can increase your chances by purchasing a bundle of 6 for $100. The club makes it easy to enter by accepting both Cash and Venmo. To secure your entries, simply contact Travis Music at 1.530.252.1800 or reach out to any member of the 140 Squad Club.
The big drawing is scheduled for next Thursday, May 21st. You do not need to be present to win, so be sure to get your tickets soon and help make a difference for the youth in our community.
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Still Time to be a Part of the 5th Annual Gary Felt Kilt Classic Golf Tournament
It is time to dust off the kilts and polish the clubs for a local tradition that blends sport with a spirit of service.
The Susanville Salvation Army has officially announced that the 5th Annual Gary Felt Kilt Classic Golf Tournament will return to the Diamond Mountain Golf Course on June 6th.
The fundraising event serves as a tribute to Gary Felt, a man whose dedication to Susanville left an enduring mark on the hearts of many. According to the Salvation Army, Gary is deeply missed, and this tournament has become a vital annual tradition to honor his memory and keep his unique spirit of giving alive within the community.
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Supporting Our Community
The Kilt Classic is more than just a day on the green; it is a primary fundraiser for the essential programs that Lassen County families rely on throughout the year.
Every dollar raised through the tournament stays right here in our community to fund a wide array of services. These include critical emergency assistance such as daily food, utility help, transportation, and rent support.
Furthermore, the proceeds bolster seasonal community programs like Thanksgiving and Christmas assistance, the Angel Tree, summer camps, and the back-to-school program which provides local children with clothing, backpacks and supplies.
How to Get Involved
The tournament is currently coming together, and there are several ways for local businesses and residents to participate. The Salvation Army is currently seeking donations for auction items and offering various sponsorship opportunities, including Hole Sponsorships.
Of course, golfers are also encouraged to register their teams early to secure a spot in the field. Click here for the Salvation Army’s online registration form.
Whether you are looking to sponsor, donate an item, or sign up to play, you can find more information by calling the Salvation Army office at 1.530.257.0314 or by stopping by their location at 1560 Main Street.
Come out on June 6th for a fun day of golf that supports the vital local programs and services that keep our community strong.
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Annual Junior Fishing Derby
Happens Tomorrow Morning!
The Lassen Sportsmen’s Club’s 37th Annual Junior Fishing Derby will take place tomorrow, May 16th, at Memorial Park and along the Susan River in Susanville. For three decades, this event has brought the community together for a day of outdoor fun, sportsmanship and the thrill of the “big catch.”
A Full Day of Fun and Food
The day kicks off early with registration and check-in starting at 5:00a.m. at Memorial Park. For families who may not have their own gear, the club has you covered: fishing rods will be available for check-out to ensure every child has a chance to participate.
Additionally, the first 300 kids to register will receive a souvenir Derby Hat, courtesy of Guess Plumbing!
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Thanks to the incredible generosity of local sponsors, young fishers won’t go hungry:
From 6:00 to 8:30a.m. there will be a free breakfast for all kids, sponsored by WalMart and its employees.
A free lunch for all kids will be served from 10:30a.m. to 1:00p.m., sponsored by Frosty Mill, Susanville Supermarket, Alpine Beverage, Burger King, Diamond Mountain Mini-Mart, and Grillin’ by Greg Sella.
Adults may have breakfast or lunch for a suggested donation of $2.
Competition and Prizes
The Derby officially concludes at 3:00p.m., followed immediately by the prize ceremony at Memorial Park. To be eligible for prizes, participants must be off the river by 2:45 and in line at the check-in station by 3:00.
The prize list is more impressive than ever this year:
Bicycles: Awarded to 1st place winners in both the 2–5 and 6–15 age categories (Donated by Zaengle’s Home & Carpet and Susanville Grocery Outlet).
Rod & Reels: Awarded for 2nd place in both categories (Donated by Western Nevada Supply).
Tackle Boxes: Awarded for 3rd place in both categories (Donated by Lassen County Federal Credit Union).
The “Big One”: A custom Rod and Reel will be awarded for the biggest fish, donated by Elegant Iris and Men’s Den.
Special 15-Year-Old Prize: A fly rod, reel and line for the largest fish caught by a 15-year-old. (Courtesy of Katie Anderson).
Sportsmanship Awards: Special recognition for young anglers demonstrating great character sponsored by the Dieter Family and Bill Kauffman.
Community Spirit
This event is a true community effort, co-sponsored by the City of Susanville, the Susanville Indian Rancheria and Lassen County. Countless local businesses have stepped up to provide funding and support for fish planting.
The Lassen Sportsmen’s Club is a 501(c)(3) community non-profit organization, and all donations to the event are tax-deductible.
For more information, community members can contact Lassen Sportsmen’s Club President Wade Workman at 1.530.310.0151.
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Preliminary Work on Park Expansion Gets Underway
May 15, 1980
PRELIMINARY WORK has finally begun on the long awaited expansion of Susanville’s Riverside Park. City public works crews Friday morning tore up the abandoned Laverne Avenue to make room for the park expansion to the east.
The existing park along with a vacant lot next to the Sierra Pacific lumber mill will be developed into a softball facility, picnic areas, play areas and a rose garden.
Included will be restrooms, drinking fountains and a concession facility.
A $38,000 grading and site preparation project has begun at the site and should be finished in about two weeks. Construction will continue through the summer.
The city has landed $114,000 in state park bond funds and federal land and water conservation grants for the project. Several city service clubs have volunteered work on the play area, picnic sites and rose gardens.
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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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