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Volume XVIII Issue 23
Wednesday, September 3rd, 2025
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Why We Love This Place
Wednesday: Kristina Shafer
By Terra Avilla
This week I wanted to talk about Kristina Shafer, Lassen County’s unofficial mortgage whisperer, math translator and all-around home-buying superhero.
She does so much, except without a cape, and what would appear to me as a lot more actual paperwork.
You see, when my family stumbled into the housing world in 2019, numbers were attacking from all sides and my toddler, Pearl, was in the “scream, drool, repeat” era.
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Somehow through that mess, Kristina made us feel like we found a safe person to help us, because let’s be real, your mortgage lender knows your life pretty dang well by the end of the process, every debt, paystub and weird purchase on your bank statement.
Back when Omega was called Summit Financing, Kristina sat with us – sometimes for what felt like days – while she patiently navigated every confusing form.
We showed up with kids, questions and a mild fear that we were asking the same thing for the 10th time. Yet, she never once rolled her eyes, even when I tried to math using only hope and caffeine.
At that time, we didn’t have a realtor… just Kristina. I feared buying directly from private owners was supposed to be complicated, but the process felt less scary and more like, “Just follow Kristina, she knows where all the hidden snacks are.”
She always explained things in regular human language, not in banker speak, which as first-time home buyers we can never thank her enough for.
Fast forward to now – we are back at it, and Kristina continues to be a gem.
Lassen County’s charm will always be its people, and Kristina’s blend of expertise and genuine kindness has saved more than just mortgages… it has saved our sanity.
When your loan officer not only gets the job done but also laughs at your dumb jokes and lets your sticky toddler crawl under the desk, you know you found a keeper.
Kristina is also involved in all sorts of local activities, from supporting events with donations to showing up for fundraisers that most people avoid unless there’s free cake (me… I’m people).
Several times a year Kristina picks a local nonprofit and quietly donates a chunk of her profits, because she loves where she lives, and she is one of the reasons I do too!
Kristina Shafer is more than just excellent at her job – she’s the kind of person who genuinely makes Lassen County better (and frankly, sets off the “is she secretly a superhero?” alert).
Not only is she a loving wife and community supporter, but every single month she gives a portion of her earnings to nonprofit organizations in town – because that’s how you actually walk the walk. Who does that? Kristina does, and she does it without turning it into a big Facebook brag.
Community Involvement
Kristina is involved in all sorts of local activities, from supporting events with donations to showing up for fundraisers that most people avoid unless there’s free cake. Her generosity is so well-known that groups like the Susanville Police Officer’s Association publicly thanked her for stepping up to help local causes.
Giving Back All Year Long
Every month without fail, Kristina picks a local nonprofit and quietly donates a chunk of her hard-earned cash. If you’re wondering whether anyone actually does this, look no further. Kristina is the real deal.
She doesn’t just support the town with paperwork and patience; she backs it up with action (and, let’s be honest, probably good snacks for volunteers).
The Heart Behind the Hustle
On top of everything else, Kristina is a dedicated wife, often seen cheering on her family and friends in ways that make small-town life feel like one big group hug. So, when the question is “Who gives back?”—here’s the answer, printed in bold, highlighted and maybe even written in glitter: Kristina does.
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Lend a Paw: Humane Society Seeks Community Support in Membership Drive
The Lassen Humane Society is reaching out to the compassionate hearts of Lassen County residents in its ongoing Membership Drive, seeking vital contributions to continue its mission of supporting dogs and cats in need. For decades, the LHS has been a beacon of hope for countless animals, relying on the generosity of the community to provide essential services.
The costs of animal care, like so many other expenses, continue to rise, and the Lassen Humane Society is feeling the impact. A significant demand continues to be the financial relief offered through the Combined Dog/Cat Spay/Neuter Assistance Program, which alone supported over 1,100 spay/neuter procedures in 2024.
In 2022, a dedicated Dog Spay/Neuter Program was added, further expanding their crucial work.
Since its inception in 1985, the Lassen Humane Society has made remarkable progress in advocating for and assisting Lassen County’s animals. However, challenges remain, and the ongoing efforts require continued community engagement. All funds raised through this membership drive and other initiatives are directly reinvested into the welfare of animals within Lassen County.
How You Can Make a Difference:
The Lassen Humane Society offers various membership levels to fit every budget, allowing everyone to contribute to this important cause:
Individual: $20
Family: $50
Sustaining: $100
Sponsor: $250
Life: $500
Contributions and memberships can be mailed to:
Lassen Humane Society
P.O. Box 1575
Susanville, CA 96130
(Checks please, no cash)
For convenient online donations, you can click here and contribute via PayPal. Click here to head over the Humane Society’s website to see how you can help.
For more information about the Lassen Humane Society and its programs, please visit their website at www.lassenhumanesociety.org or follow them on Facebook.
Your continued support is invaluable in helping the Lassen Humane Society protect and care for the animals of Lassen County. Every contribution, no matter the size, makes a tangible difference in the lives of vulnerable pets.
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Emergency Responders Offered Specialized Training on Alzheimer’s and Dementia
Emergency responders in Lassen County are being offered a specialized training session to help them better assist individuals with Alzheimer’s, dementia, or memory loss. The training, titled “Approaching Alzheimer’s and Dementia: Emergency Responder Training,” will focus on practical, person-centered strategies for handling dementia-related situations.
The event is scheduled for Monday, September 29th, from noon to 1:00p.m. It will be held at the Northeastern Rural Health Clinic, located at 1850 Spring Ridge Dr. in Susanville.
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The specialized training aims to equip first responders with the skills needed to understand and communicate effectively with people living with cognitive decline, ensuring they are prepared and informed in these unique situations.
The training is funded through a contract with the California Department of Aging and is brought to the community by PSA 2 Area Agency on Aging and the Alzheimer’s Association.
Emergency responders interested in attending can either register online by following this link or by calling 1.800.272.3900. For more information, please contact Kindra Adcock Dantanawatanawong at kadcock@alz.org or 1.530.433.1801.
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More Free Movies at the Susanville
Performing Arts Center Beginning Friday
The newly established Susanville Performing Arts Center at the Sierra Theatre has announced a series of free movie days for the community. The center invites everyone to enjoy a variety of films, from supernatural thrillers to animated classics, all with free admission.
Fright Night Friday 9/5
A 1990 romantic fantasy starring Johnny Depp and Winona Ryder.
Edward Scissorhands (PG-13)
1hr 45min – 4:30p.m. & 7:10p.m.
A 1974 comedy farce featuring Gene Wilder and Mel Brooks.
Young Frankenstein (PG)
1hr 45min – 4:45p.m. & 7:30p.m.
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Silly Saturday 9/6
A 1971 animated musical fantasy.
Bedknobs and Broomsticks (G)
1hr 55min – 3:00p.m. & 7:10p.m.
A 2009 animated comedy.
Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs (PG)
1hr 30min – 3:15p.m. & 7:30p.m.
Spiritual Sunday 9/7
A faith-based coming-of-age drama.
The Forge (PG)
2hrs 5min – 3:00p.m. & 7:10p.m.
A drama about an 8-year-old boy in WWII.
Little Boy (PG-13)
1hr 45min – 3:15p.m. & 7:30p.m.
Wild & Wacky Wednesday 9/10
The classic 1980 comedy with Chevy Chase and Bill Murray.
Caddyshack (R)
1hr 40min – 4:45p.m. & 7:30p.m.
A 2014 slapstick western starring Seth MacFarlane and Charlize Theron.
A Million Ways to Die in the West (R)
1hr 55min – 4:30p.m. & 7:10p.m.
Throwback Thursday 9/11
A 2006 comedy adventure starring Ben Stiller.
Night at the Museum (PG)
1hr 50min – 4:45p.m. & 7:30p.m.
An epic film from 2006 about 300 Spartans.
300 (R)
1hr 55min – 4:30p.m. & 7:10p.m.
The Susanville Performing Arts Center is a state-of-the-art venue for performances and events, and while admission is free, donations are welcomed to support its mission of community involvement, education and entertainment.
Please note that outside food is not permitted; however, the concession stands will be open.
For more information, you can visit the SPAC Facebook page or email spac@susanvilleperformingartscenter.com.
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LMUD Celebrates Customers with Big Party Tomorrow in Uptown Susanville
Lassen Municipal Utility District’s big annual Customer Appreciation Celebration will be held tomorrow, September 4th, in the big parking lot at the corner of North Gay and Main Streets.
LMUD’s first customer appreciation celebration took place in June of 2008.
“That year, LMUD staff, management, and board members started a tradition that has grown into a much-loved celebration of community-owned power,” explains LMUD Public Relations Manager Theresa Phillips.
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The expanded event, which has been held at its new location for three years now, features a giant tent for plenty of shaded seating, cool giveaways – including $100 LMUD energy gift cards – and the famous 1/4 lbs. all-beef hot dogs.
“There’s seating for up to 100 people, so we encourage folks to sit and relax and enjoy lunch with family and friends.”
Lunch at the event will be served from 11a.m. until 1:30p.m., and the first 30 customers can pick up a solar-powered, hand-crank radio, limit one per household.
Any customer that attends can enter the drawing for 1 of 3 $100 energy gift cards. You can also pick up a swag bag with lots of goodies.
“LMUD is proud to serve our friends, neighbors and family with reliable, affordable electricity,” said Phillips.
“Events like our customer appreciation celebration give you an opportunity to meet with LMUD board members, management and staff, allowing you to ask questions and voice your comments on how your utility is operating.”
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Agenda: September 3rd, 2025
Susanville City Council Meetings
The Susanville City Council will hold a special meeting at 3:00p.m., followed by a regular meeting at 5:00 today, September 3rd, in City Council Chambers at 66 North Lassen Street.
Click here for the regular meeting agenda.
Click here for the special meeting agenda.
Reports and documents relating to each agenda item are on file in the Office of the City Clerk and are available for public inspection during normal business hours and at the meeting.
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| | | The new Sprouse Ritz store in 1939 – Eastman Studios photo | | |
Sprouse Ritz Move to New Store Planned with Confidence in Future
September 3, 1939
In their new location at 610 Main Street, the staff of the Sprouse Reitz store is making every effort to have the store in order for a big opening day Monday. District Manager J. T. Snyder has been here several days assisting and will call in Managers J. B. Laveaga of the Sparks store and Walter Richards of Fallon to lend a hand.
Manager Sheeley of Portola will arrive Sunday morning, and these with a force augmented by local salespeople, will be ready to receive buyers and visitors all day Monday and also in the evening.
The building, formerly occupied by Safeway during the past five years, and previous to that by the Lassen Advocate, has been completely overhauled, enlarged and newly decorated throughout. As compared with the previous location, Sprouse-Reitz will have more than double the counter space and will display a number of lines of merchandise.
The building is 30×120 feet, with three large skylights, and electric lighting consists of 20 semi-indirect cylinder reflectors near the ceiling.
“Step up” display counters which have been adopted by all Sprouse Reitz stores during the past two years offers a distinct advantage in displaying the varied lines of merchandise. In dividing the counter space into compartments about 21/2 tons of bulb glass have been used. This is one of the interesting details in the general design, as bulb glass when first brought into use was the “waste” from immense glass factories. Its rounded edge with graduated thickness one time was cut away from around the edge of large plates and discarded. Of late years the demand far exceeded the supply and it was necessary for the store to ship from Belgium.
The counters are all open top, but underneath there is closed-in shelving, stocked with the lines shown on top.
At the entrance is a glass-enclosed candy case, divided into compartments of stainless steel with glass bottoms, assuring thorough cleanliness and sanitation in a greatly enlarged candy section.
Passing through the store one may wind through the aisles and in order to see attractive displays of toilet goods, notions and sewing needs, then infants’ apparel and silk underwear; on more counters are the electric supplies and hardware, kitchen tools, wooden ware and brushes, and at the extreme back of the store are shown 50 or more patterns of oilcloth on rolls, with paints and enamels in shelving at each end.
On the west side of the store towards the front is a much enlarged ribbon department with everything up to width 40, jewelry, art goods, hosiery and dry goods. Then on shelving which widens from the top to the bottom giving clear views of the display are glassware, crockery and dishes.
On the east side toward the front are souvenirs and novelties arranged under a mirror and indirect lightning most attractively. Extending along the east side are displays of toys, stationery, party favors, greeting cards, then come the aluminum, enamel and tinware.
Flood lights in the display windows and at the front of the store near the ceiling will be operated by time switches.
The Susanville store is not the largest amount the 152 Sprouse Reitz stores, all in the western states, but none has been more carefully planned and stocked, according to the district manager. The investment of thousands of dollars in store improvements, fixtures and enlarged stock, is cited as a mark of their confidence in the future of Susanville.
| The interior of the soon-to-be completed store | |
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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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