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By Melissa Wynn
North of Quincy, Ca just off of Blackhawk Road lies a lovely alpine valley shaped like a butterfly. Passers by would never dream that this lush and boggy area in the mountains would be home to four species of carnivorous plants. Aren’t those from a few tropical places and the movie “Little Shop of Horrors”? Apparently not.
Amateur botanist Rebecca Austin, who was born right here in Plumas County, studied the carnivorous, or more accurately the insectivorous plants of Butterfly Valley from 1875-1877. Her studies are still cited today and another wildflower of Butterfly Valley, the Austin’s Skullcap, is named in her honor. Rebecca’s favorite and most studied bug eating plant was the rare California Pitcher Plant also known as the Cobra Lily.
The name Cobra Lily comes from the shape of the Pitcher Plant’s many stalks that look like a Cobra with hood open and prepared to strike. The head of the cobra is used to trap insects that the plant digests to supplement its diet, gaining nutrients from the bugs that are lacking in the soil. Reddish-orange streaks on the hood are a map for insects to the nectar. California Pitcher Plants produce an abundance of nectar and the further into the hood the insects travel the thicker and juicier the nectar. Eventually the doomed crawlers slip on the waxy surface and fall into the fluid filled tube or “pitcher” where they drown and are digested. Downward pointing hairs in the plant from hood to pitcher keep the bugs from climbing back out. Fascinating.
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~ Buffalo Chips ~
Open 7 Days a Week
Homemade breads, soups, salads, sandwiches and more! Try our creamy cheesecake and of course the best hand tossed pizza around!
322 Birch St. ~ Westwood, CA (530) 256-2412
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By Michelle Wolf
As the old saying goes about the weather in Lassen County, wait five minutes and it will change. The recent group of storms has altered the typical process of activities that must take place in order to prepare for spring here at Five Dot Ranch.
March signifies the time of year that several processes begin. Turning cattle out on green pastures, the start of calving season and marking of the winter herd calves. In order for these activities to run smoothly a lot of preparation takes place in the weeks prior by the cowboys. Daily activities will include fence riding of the spring permits before the cattle arrive. The water sources will be evaluated to determine if they are sustainable and easily accessible to the animals. The type of feed and growth will then dictate what particular set of animals will graze on that allotment.
For example; if the grasses are more plentiful and have a higher nutritional value in one area the cowboys might choose to put cow/calve pairs in that location. Why? Cows with calves will have higher nutrient needs to maintain good body condition while milking than single immature heifers. The cowboys take great pride in matching individual herds with the best feed sources available at that particular time of year. Once the cattle are settled in their appropriate areas the cowboys will ride through the herd regularly, evaluating the condition of both the cattle and the grazing land. This maintains herd health and ensures that the ecology of the range land is being managed.
Five Dot Ranch works closely with groups such as BLM or Fish and Game to maintain stewardship of the land. In some instances grazing lands are shared by more then one ranch. Identification of each individual ranch’s animals becomes very important. That is why you might hear the term, branding. There are many ways to identify individual animals. The most common is by branding. This is using a hot iron that is usually in the shape of a letter and or symbol. Brands are usually registered within the state with the Department of Food and Agriculture. This insures that two ranches will not have the same brand in a matching location. For example; you might have a rafter F brand with the location being on the left hip. You could also have a rafter F brand on the right hip. This is okay, but they both could not register the rafter F on the right hip.
There are six register able locations on an animal; they are the right and left hip, shoulder and middle rib. Other forms of livestock identification include inner lip or ear tattoos, earmarking or ear tagging. Hopefully by the time you read this the weather will be improving and we will get on with our list of activities on the Five Dot Ranch preparing for springtime.
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Off to the Rodeo
by Eileen Majors
We piled up kids, a basket of goodies and plenty of smiles in our family bus and headed down the easy drive of Highway 36 to Red Bluff last year for the Red Bluff Round Up Rodeo. We set up our caravan, parking the bus and several cars together on the lawn, where we celebrated one of our own cowboy’s birthday, before going in. We watched as thousands of spectators from across the state and beyond filled the stands for this great day of Cowboy fun. Rodeo cowboys, all clad in their “Tough-Enough-to-Wear-Pink” attire, put on quite a show for us all!
The orchestration of this event was captivating from beginning to end. From the wild cowboy acts and clowns to the taming of wild horses and the antique buggy that flew around the track, eyes across the stands stayed fascinated. The opening ceremony was a magnificent display of patriotism flying overhead, taking over the arena and filling the stands and the people with a terrific stir of pride for our nation. The ceremony, sponsored by R Wild Horse Ranch, brought chills and surpassed any opening ceremony I had ever seen for any event. The fun had only just begun.
All day long cowboys clad in pink shirts, made especially by Wrangler, dazzled the crowds. Even pink leather chaps were among the attire worn to raise awareness and funds for the cause of fighting breast cancer. This year cowboys will return in pink while they stir up quite a wild show in Red Bluff, CA. Come join in the fun April 13 – 17, 2011. I can’t wait to see what organizers have planned this year!
Ride on Down to the Red Bluff Round Up – 2011
by Melissa Wynn
Saddle up rodeo fans! Its time for the 90th Annual Red Bluff Round-Up. An entire week of fun keeps Red Bluff bustling with going -on. Saturday April 9th kicks off the festivities with a Chili Cook-Off, Car Show, Live Entertainment, Pony Rides, Food Booths and Fitness Runs. Wednesday the 13th brings Cowboy Poetry to the Tehama County Library and Thursday is the Round-up Mixer at Reynolds Ranch & Farm Supply.
Official Red Bluff Round-Up events also begin on Wednesday as follows:
Wednesday April 13 ~ $3,000 Added Open 4D Barrel Race
Thursday April 14 ~ 8:00 AM Barrel Racing Slack
Friday April 15 ~ 9:00 AM Timed Event Slack /7:00 PM Rodeo First Performance
Saturday April 16 ~ 8:00 AM Timed Event Slack/ 1:30 PM Rodeo Second Performance
Sunday April 17 ~ 8:00 AM Timed Event Slack/ 1:30 PM Rodeo Third Performance
Track events include races daily with great prizes
Wild Horse Race…………. $1,500
Four Furlongs………..…..…..$1,000
Quarter Mile………….………..$1,000
Three-Quarter Mile………….$1,000
Quarter Mile Mule……….…..$1,000
Local Mule Race (Friday Only)…$800
Round-Up Parade
Saturday, April 16th, 10:00a.m.
The BIG PARADE begins winding its way through downtown Red Bluff at 10:00am on Saturday morning. Preliminary Rodeo Event Kick-Off at the Tehama County Fairgrounds begins at 12 noon sharp. Both days will feature the Grand Entry Procession of riders, horses and dazzling costumes. At 1:30pm stand to the presentation of Old Glory by the efficient carriers riding handsomely bedecked redmounts.
The Wild Horse race climaxes each day’s performance with action right down in front of the grandstands. It’s wild and woolly and mighty “western.” Absolutely nobody leaves until this crowd pleaser has run it’s course!
Don’t forget Sunday’s featured event the sixth Red Bluff Round-Up Wild Ride. Eight of the top PRCA contestants compete dressed in the craziest costumes to the delight of the crowd. The winner receives a saddle donated by Growney Motors and $1000.00.
For the 90th time Red Bluff Round-Up promises to be a boot stomping good time. For tickets and entry information visit redbluffroundup.com or call 530-527-1000.
For more information visit redbluffroundup.com
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Submitted by Paula Holden~ Tehama County CattleWomen
Baxter Black is coming to Red Bluff, CA during the 11 Days of Red Bluff Round Up, originally organized to extend the rodeo festivities for the community. Black was described by the New York Times as…”probably the nation’s most successful living poet.
He is well known nationwide through his column, appearances on National Public Radio and RFD TV. He has many books, offers CDs, videos and performs in limited public appearances. From the cartoon-style mustache to his shining personality and intriguing poetry, Black is said to be “all cowboy!” Local fans are anxious to welcome him to Red Bluff, recently named one of the top 20 Western places to live.
As part of the 11 days of Red Bluff Roundup, the Sunrise Rotary and the Tehama County Cattlewomen have roped in Baxter Black for one performance at the historical State Theatre in Red Bluff.
Baxter will be rounding up the chuckles, guffaws and belly laughs on April 11th at 7pm. Those wishing to corral Baxter for a private moment can lasso VIP tickets for $50. Premium ($30) and General Admission ($25) seating is available for the performance only. VIP ticket holders will enjoy Baxter in person, at a ‘Meet and Greet” on the second floor of the Odd Fellows Hall (enter on Oak Street) from 5:00 PM to 6 PM, and the VIP seating at the State Theatre for the 7:00 PM performance. As they corral Baxter before the performance, VIP ticket holders will enjoy grazing on beef appetizers provided by the Tehama County CattleWomen and from Red Bluff’s 2010 Beef N’ Brew appetizer competition. Concessions and refreshments will be available at the State Theatre. Tickets are available at The Loft, 501 Madison; Red Bluff Chamber of Commerce, 100 Main; Sparrows Fine Art and Antiques, 644 Main and Durrer Insurance, 508 Main. Seating is limited. Please call 527-3092 for more information.
Come enjoy traditional western hospitality and celebrate a week full of events commemorating 90 years of Rodeo in Red Bluff.
Read more at www.baxterblack.com.
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Artists from around the country are invited to submit their original work to the 2011 California Duck Stamp contest. The California Department of Fish and Game (DFG) will be accepting submissions through April 30 at 4 p.m. The winning artwork will be reproduced on the 2011 California Duck Stamp, which all waterfowl hunters must purchase, and will be available as collectible limited edition prints. The top contest submissions will also be showcased at the Pacific Flyway Decoy Association’s art show in July.
The contest is open to any artist who is 18 years of age or older as of March 1, 2011. The picture must depict a pair (male and female) of the species selected by the California Fish and Game Commission, which this year is the Barrow’s Goldeneye (Bucephala islandica).
Entries need to be original, “hand drawn” and in the medium (or combination) of the artist’s choosing, except that no photographic process, digital art, metallic paints or fluorescent paints may be used in the finished design. Photographs, computer-generated art, art produced from a computer printer or other computer/mechanical output device (air brush method excepted) are not eligible to be entered into the contest and will be disqualified. All entries must be accompanied by a completed participation agreement, entry form and a non-refundable $50 entry fee. These forms and the official rules are available online at www.dfg.ca.gov/duckstamp.
Courtesy of DFG
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Do you love those Eastern European dyed eggs, but just can’t see investing all the time and effort to wax, dye, and re-dye something that can get broken so easily. Of course, the ephemeral quality of real egg shells can add to the value of those collector’s eggs, but at least until the kids are a certain age, they are best seen at a distance.
To make yourself or a loved one a lasting decorative work of art, try wooden eggs. They can be painted with acrylic paint and varnished with acrylic varnish. As an alternative, use watered down latex paint. (Not too thick, or it might crack and peel.) Check your varnish with it on a piece of cardboard so you can see if you like the results. Even marking pens can be used for the decorative work, but here again, be careful of the varnish as water-based products can make even permanent markers run. Make sure all your paints or markers are thoroughly dried before applying varnish. If you want a crackle effect, apply regular white glue over the dried painted surface. When still tacky, but nearly dry, apply varnish carefully without “pulling” the glue. A thicker coat of glue should make a larger crackle. Let the whole project dry at least overnight before displaying.
Fresh out of ideas for your designs? Look around you. Even the most creative people do not work in a vacuum. “Natural” things have often been used as inspiration. Even if you use copyright-free designs, or an “in the style of” design, it’s a good idea to add your own changes and touches to make it your own project. If you can completely design and paint freehand, do so. If you need to, draw lightly with a pencil over the raw wood or a dry base coat. Symmetrical designs are hard on an egg, but if you draw carefully you shouldn’t need to measure. If you’re not satisfied with free drawing, use rubber bands around the egg to divide it.
Above all, have fun!
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Four Seasons Sports Expo
March is a big month at the Reno Tahoe Convention Center, when the 44th Annual Reno Outdoor, Sports & Recreation Expo returns the March 25th through March 27th. The Outdoor Expo will have information and products for both summer and winter adventures including everything needed for an extreme adventure, a day hike, or a day on the slopes. Motorhomes, travel trailers, 5th wheels, toy haulers, campers, ski boats, wake board boats, fishing boats, performance boats, family boats, and sail boats are scheduled for this event, to name a few.
Home & Garden Expo
The Reno Home & Garden Show is to be held on the same weekend at the Reno Sparks Convention Center. A pet show will add to the fun with Splash Dogs and a Pug Parade as part of the line up.
Antique Appraisal
Bring Your Treasures for FREE Antiques appraisals to show visitors. See award Wining TV Personality, PH.D. Antiques Appraiser and Host, with appearances on the Fine Living Network, the Tonight Show, Daily Show with Jon Stewart, CBS, NBC, ABC, FOX, and is a Nationally Syndicated Columnist with 8 million readers. She is honest, accurate and hilarious! You will laugh out loud at Dr. Lori’s events, even if your treasure is trash!
Team Extreme Motorcycle Trials
The Team Extreme Trials features 2 completely unique shows starring legends of Trials. The best way to describe Trials is “gymnastics on two wheels”. The rider conquers a monstrous obstacle course while never putting their feet on the ground, with amazing balance and a level of precision and control found in no other sport. Motorcycle Trials is one of the most unusual motorcycle sports and considered to be the most difficult. Unbelievable skills combined with playful interactive show format makes this event entertaining fun for the entire family.
Fishing Demos
Check out the 5,000 gallon mobile aquarium filled with hungry bass and game fish including native trout. Daily demos will include bass fishing techniques and demos on the use of lures and other fishing equipment.
Vendor Space Available at Outdoor Show & Bridal Show
Businesses interested in exhibiting at the shows March 25 – 27 or the Bridal Showcase on March 20, should contact Lockett Incorporated at 775 849-8000.
Mountain Valley Living Magazine will be exhibiting at the outdoor show to show off all the great road trips in our Northeastern California region. We have a great spot and we can’t wait to show off our advertisers! We will also be showing off Great Mountain Wedding Spots in our Mountain Valley Living Booth at the Bridal Show on March 20, 2011.
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By ~ Angele Thibodeau
Planning a wedding can be a daunting task. Location is everything, there are so many requirements to finding the perfect place. If it is an outdoor location you want it to be accessible for all members of the family. Nearby facilities are a must, and it needs to be an enchanting place that can mirror the beauty of the love you are vowing to one another. Truckee has many beautiful locations that can make a marriage unforgettable.
A Donner Lake beach wedding has all of these attributes. The atmosphere under the towering pines by the turquoise water is very peaceful. The children run around playing in the grass, an Eagle swoops down to catch a fish from the water and sometimes you can even hear a distant train whistle. Donner Lake is captivating. There are plenty of surrounding Inns and Hotels to accommodat e whatever number of guests you may have.  Truckee Donner Lodge, Lost Trail Lodge, Truckee Hotel and Donner Lake Village resort, just to name a few. Truckee also offers weddings on mountain tops or down by the Truckee River. Sugar Bowl, perched on top of Donner Summit, offers beautiful wedding locations with distant views. A convenience of having your wedding at Sugar Bowl is that you can reserve the entire resort for a private wedding. Just in Sugar Bowl alone, you have valleys, meadows, mountain tops, forests, gondola rides and always a breathtaking sunset. The town of Truckee itself provides quality restaurants, music, hair salons and fantastic gift shops for anything else you may need. The rich, colorful history and variety of events makes for plenty of fun activities to keep all of your guests entertained. The charm of Truckee combined with the grand magnificence of the Sierra Nevadas sets the stage for a wedding to be remembered through a future of wedded bliss.
Contact Info:
Sugar Bowl (530) 426-6769 www.sugarbowl.com/wedding
Lost Trail Lodge (530) 320-9268 www.losttraillodge.com
Truckee Hotel (530) 659-6921 www.truckeehotel.com
Donner Lake Village Resort (800) 979-0402 
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by Scott P. Hopper
written for NorCal Fishing News
Visit them at NorCalFishingNews.com
Every winter I sit next to a warm fire and read my journal. Not the type I wrote as a child, but one that is filled with the past year’s adventures. The proper use of a journal can be one of the best fishing tools, if it is used properly. I was introduced to keeping a journal by my father, who has kept one for as long as I can remember. So I have known for many years how important it is to keep good records of “places-been.” As I get older, my memory does not take me to the exact spot where I landed that beautiful rainbow, so I have resorted to keeping a journal of my own.
Recently, I was flipping through the crinkled pages, reliving the highs and lows of 2010. The journal is filled with fishing and hunting opportunities – some are success stories and others are not. During this reflection period, I wanted to pull three experiences to share. The first excerpt took place in late June. I took my family to the Wild Plum Campground just off Highway 49, near Sierra City, for our annual kickoff-to-summer outing. While camping for three nights, we hiked to the magnificent Upper Sardine Lake that is located on the backside of the Sierra Buttes. The mirror-like lake gave way to a stunning reflection of the mountain peaks that were blanketed by snow. The fishing was poor, as the waters were still running cold and high. The time spent with my family is fleeting, so the focus is on the memories, not the fish. My daughter, who was then 12, is such a great camper she set up her own tent. My wife knows her way around a camp kitchen. Her little touches make the campfire food just wonderful. My son did catch the only fish of the trip. It was a small brookie he pulled from the icy waters using a Copper John nymph fly while on Haypress Creek under the bridge, right at the campground.
In early January when the peaks of the Sierras around Truckee become frozen, the Truckee River begins to fall. Break out your 4-pound test line and some snowshoes and target the stream’s monster brown trout. I did in January, 2010, and landed and released a 31-inch brown trout while fishing in 3-feet of snow. When the weather gets cold and snowy, fish the pockets of slower water, as well as the cut banks. If you have wanted to try the mouse pattern, this is a great time of year to try, but I would recommend using a fish pattern or Rapala. Get to the water early and leave early. I have never caught a 20+ inch Truckee brown when the sun was on the water. Remember, just because the water is lower, it is still cold and fast. Don’t fish it alone. Wear a flotation device and don’t get in the water. Danger abounds at the Truckee River, even more so in the winter. Stay off the ice shelves; they will break and you could find yourself pinned in the current.
I had a difficult time picking a third and final excerpt, but when I thought about who I went hunting or fishing with this season, one person came to mind: Les Jundy. Les is a hunting/fishing friend of 23 years. He and I had the opportunity to walk the high mesas of Nevada this past fall while on a quest for sage grouse. Neither one of us had harvested one in our lives, so we prepared for months. It was three days of camping in the vastness of the Great Basin. We both bagged a limit and carried on some incredible conversation. The adventure was a two-day hunt in the Sheldon Antelope Reserve which is by permit only through the Nevada Department of Wildlife. Les and I had been applying for a permit for three years. We were feeling very optimistic about the hunt as we scouted for three days in July and saw many birds. We camped a quarter of a mile from that very spot, and it paid off.
Thanks to my family for making the sacrifices which allow me the opportunity to have these wonderful experiences. As I make plans for the coming year, I hope to go to the Mearns quail hunt with my father in Arizona, camp Grouse Ridge with my wife and kids and land a 20+ pound striper on 4-pound test line. When the “old man is snoring,” take the time to reflect on where you have been and where you want to go, and create a 2011 journal. If it were not for my journal, I would not have remembered the hole in which the 31-inch Truckee brown trout lurks.
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by Eileen Majors
We had a great time putting together this collection of great wedding spots in the mountains of NorCal. It is amazing just how many wedding hideaways exist in the beautiful mountains of Northern CA. Amid lakes and streams aplenty, brides and grooms can have their choice of several venues, all waiting to fulfill their wedding fantasies. From wedding planners and carriage ride providers to the rental companies and caterers, you will find exceptional customer service from fun people who would greatly enjoy the opportunity to create your ideal event.
It is a fun adventure, planning a wedding. It is also sometimes stressful. Whether you choose a large event, or want a smaller, more intimate affair, you will find many options by contacting the local chambers of commerce.
I was married a year ago September on the shore of Lake Almanor at the beautiful Dorado Inn to Brian Worth. Family and friends joined us for a lakeside ceremony as osprey and eagles witnessed the celebration from afar. That is what it felt like for me as the sun majestically set in blazing orange on that beautiful Almanor day. There are many beautiful lakes in our region, gorgeous golf courses, mountain streams and an assortment of businesses ready to help you plan your big event. If you are planning a wedding, we welcome you to the Mountains of Northern CA!
We hope you will stop by our booth and say hello on March 20th. We will be at the Reno-Sparks Convention Center for the Premier Bride Showcase.
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By Melissa Wynn
Before mankind spent so much time staring at television, computer and cell phone screens, the sky was all the rave. Our ancestors based our calendar on the movement of the heavenly bodies and the time of day was estimated by the sun’s position in the sky. My clock and calendar are on my cell phone. The sun, moon and stars were long used as the main tools of navigation over land and sea all over the globe. These days we depend on the GPS screen. Many ancient structures such as the Great Pyramids of Egypt and Stonehenge were constructed perfectly to capture such events as the rising sun on the summer solstice, leaving in stone proof of the important role the sky has played in the lives of man since the dawn of time. Stargazing entertained for eons before our screens kept the common man from taking the time to look up. Many of the constellations have long been said to influence life and luck. I was born under the sign of Pisces but am ashamed to admit that I haven’t the faintest idea where to find the Piscean constellation in the night sky. I just read my horoscope on a computer screen. I can still find the big and little dippers but my knowledge of star location ends there. What a shame! It seems I rarely look up at the night sky unless the evening news reports a meteor shower, eclipse or other celestial phenomenon that peaks my interest. We should be wishing on falling stars we saw just by chance, like those from long ago who started the tradition. I can easily picture in my mind’s eye, ancient men and women lying hand in hand on a hillside, staring into the heavens and contemplating the meaning of the universe. Our busy modern lives could use more of this simple contemplation. Stargazing is probably one of the most peaceful and effortless ways to reconnect with the universe. It’s a fine way to spend some quality time with our youngsters who came into this world with the screens already in place. Perhaps we can all learn to find the constellations together one cloudless night at a time, and rekindle our curiosity of what lies beyond.
Place story next to Moon Watching photo by Dr. Owen Bateson
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GiddyUp and Go
Sleigh and Carriage Service P.O. Box 9 Vinton, CA 96135 530-906-7103
GiddyUp and Go is a full service horse drawn vehicle business. We provide elegant wedding transportation as well as specialty and themed transportation for your celebration or special event. We specialize in wedding carriages and sleighs for a truly elegant arrival. Whether you want a beautiful white carriage, sleigh, hay wagon, or horse drawn trolley, memories for a lifetime are created with GiddyUp and Go.
Relax and enjoy the view, as we transport you and your guests to your wedding or special event. Plan added fun with carriage rides for family and friends for a day to remember. With exceptional service and equipment, we encourage a “make your dreams come true” philosophy. In addition to our horse drawn vehicles and wedding service, we also offer draft horse, and pony rides to complete your event.
Weddings, engagements, anniversaries and celebrations of every kind can be your dream event, with your choice of stunning black or white Percheron draft horses. They can run as a single or in a team, with silver heart or decorative parade harness. We have competitive pricing options as well as payment plans to accommodate every budget. We strive to exceed each clients expectations and provide the very best of service and equipment.
Remember: “If you can dream it, we can do it”.
We offer an exceptional specialty service throughout the Plumas, Reno, Tahoe and surrounding areas. We can make any event extra special. We always think safety first, and have an excellent track record. We believe that we offer a service that is customer based, with horses and equipment that are decorated to match each event. Everyone who has a special occasion or event planned, can make it extra special with the addition of one or more of our horse services.
We are honored to have been a part of so many special celebrations, and annual events.
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By Melissa Wynn
Some of the best valentines are not about digging out your wallet, they are about digging through your hope chest and finding your heart. Sure the ladies enjoy the flowers and chocolate, but if you really want to impress your wife this Valentine’s Day, just SHOW HER that you love and appreciate her. Here are a few easy ideas to make you the man that day.
- Pamper her with a day free from cooking and cleaning chores.
- Draw her a hot bubble bath, follow up with a good massage.
- Make her a Valentine with pictures from your wedding day or favorite romantic getaway.
- Flattery will get you everywhere; remind her why you love her.
- Handwritten coupons redeemable for various chores and favors are simple and can be as sentimental or as silly as you make them.
- Snuggle her on the sofa with a good movie you know she will enjoy.
Happy Valentine’s Day!
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| The Chester Recreation and Parks District recently announced the opening of an outdoor ice skating rink next to the Truman Collins multi-use field on Moody Meadow Road in Chester, scheduled to end when “Mother Nature” thaws out the ice.
Though scheduled daily from 4 pm to 8 pm, the ice rink will be dependent on our winter weather. The Chester High School Senior Class will be staffing the refreshment booth and a limited quantity of ice skates will be available.
All volunteers are welcome to assist with staffing and anyone with an extra pair of ice skates are encouraged to donate them to Almanor Rec & Park District at the ABC Center.
Daily ice skating fees will be $5.00 per person or $10.00 per family.
All participants must sign a “Release of Liability” form and skaters under the age of 18 must have parental consent and wear an approved helmet.
The cost is $5.00 per person / $10.00 per family
Release of Liability Form is required and is available to download at lakealmanorarea.com and bring with you.
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Trumas Collins Multi-Use Complex
Moody Meadow Loop
Chester, CA 96020
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By Eileen Majors
With the end of summer in the mountains comes the end of the yard sales up here. For many there is still a need to get rid of a few used items; for others, there is always a need to buy a few more.
The Jolly Giant Flea Market is located in Anderson, CA and is housed in a giant green building. I last visited the market in 1984 when I owned a small retail store. I would take excess inventory and sell it there every once in a while. I remember selling quite a bit of merchandise and picking up some pretty cool stuff too, like my son’s first two-wheel bicycle, brand new with all the racing pads in bold red checks. I had not thought about it in years until I recently drove by. I was happy to see the busy market is still there.
The flea market offers everything from household items to tools, antiques; plenty of new merchandise and even produce and other food items are on sale. Between 100 and 150 vendors are usually lined up to sell their wares at the Jolly Giant, which is open every Saturday and Sunday, year ’round.
Admission for buyers is $1.00 (seniors 75¢). Booth space is available starting at $10 – $12. For further information, you can contact the market at 530-365-6458. They are located at 6719 Eastside Road in Anderson. From I-5 take exit 667 toward Anderson/Deschutes Rd/Factory Outlets Dr. Merge onto CA-273 N then turn right at County Rd. Your first right turn is Eastside Rd. Happy sales!
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Ayoob's Downtown Quincy, CA Fashion for guys and gals, Plumas County
Fall Into Fashion
The first of the fall-colored leaves have begun to make their appearance, and so it is time for a day of fun, food, and fashion on Saturday, October 2nd, 2010 at 11:30 am at the Grizzly Grill in Blairsden. To help the non-profit Mohawk Community Resource Center, Lynn Hagen is once again welcoming the use of her restaurant for a fashion show and luncheon to help raise money for the Center, which is located at the junction of Hwy 70 and 89 in Blairsden. Clothes the models (all local ladies) will be wearing are provided by local shops. The $20 tickets are on sale now at the Mohawk Community Resource Center in Blairsden, the Mill Works and the Outpost in Graeagle. Last year’s event was sold out, so call early to get your tickets! Attendees will be served a delicious lunch and enjoy the fashion show with friends. Come see local gals in the season’s latest attire. Wonderful silent auction items will be available. For information call 530-836-0446. The Mohawk Community Resource Center is a service of Plumas Rural Services supporting communities in Northern Sierra counties.
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by Suzanne Frances
I stand amazed as I watch my friend with two school age children and a full-time career run her home. No stress, just gettin’ it done, delivering kids to and fro, planning meals and even taking time for volunteering at school events. I stress just to think about having to deliver kids to school on my way to an early morning work schedule, let alone making breakfasts, dinners and packing lunches to boot. I admire all of you parents who pull this daily routine off all by yourselves. I decided to take a closer look at how my friend does it. She was making this look way too easy, even fun. Here are a few tips busy parents may want to incorporate in order to leave more quality time, especially during those morning scenes when all are scurrying to be on time.
• Have a “to go” spot where each family member can leave all the things they will need to find during morning rush hour. When homework is done, it is placed there, backpacks loaded and ready to go.
• Have simple breakfasts ready to go. Healthy cereal or a bagel with some cream cheese and fruit is a quick treat. When you make a big breakfast on the weekend, pack up the extra portions for the freezer so you can easily thaw and serve a meal during the busy work week. Leftover fried potatoes and eggs can be tucked into flour tortillas with a slice of cheese. Wrap them in wax paper, then slip into freezer bags. Then you can microwave them quickly, or if you prefer a real oven, as I do, wrap them in foil and pop them in a 350º oven for 20 minutes in the morning while everyone is getting ready.
• If kids are choosy about what they want to wear to school, be sure to help them choose their clothes the night before. Not only will it create morning time bliss, it will make everybody sleep better.
Timing is everything. Having a good morning is a great way to ensure your child will have a great day.
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By Melissa Wynn
I just love sight-seeing in the gorgeous Carson Valley but it seems like I never have enough time to see it all. Fortunately, I discovered a most serene way to take it all in with a bird’s- eye view from above. Whit Landvater of Balloon Nevada flies his beautiful rainbow colored balloon over this majestic area each morning, soon after sunrise, with two lucky passengers. Available by appointment only, an exhilarating ride lasts at least an hour, floating peacefully over pristine landscapes as the world below awakens. Balloon Nevada also provides wedding services performed by friendly pilot/ owner Whit Landvater, an ordained minister. What an intimate way to exchange vows, just the two of you and perhaps one guest drifting high above the valley floor. This is no everyday adventure and the Balloon Nevada crew will see to it that your unique experience is all that you dreamed it would be. Balloon rides are available year ’round, weather permitting, for $240/person(3rd for $225) and a daily schedule can be viewed on the Balloon Nevada website at balloonnevada.com. Reservations can be made online or by giving Whit a call at 775-790-7572. Give Balloon Nevada a call and get a little air!
photos by Whit Landvater and Jeff Pisciatta
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Cut a 10-foot bamboo pole into two pieces, one 4 feet long and the other 6 feet long. (PVC pipe is another pole option). Place the 4-foot section across the 6-foot piece, about one foot down from the top. Wire the two pieces together with floral wire, twine or raffia. Place a plaid or other festive fall shirt on the short cross-piece of the frame and button the shirt in front. Stuff the shirt loosely with straw, dry leaves or rags. Place gloves at the end of the “arms” and secure them with wide rubber bands. Pull one leg of a pair of jeans or overalls onto the long pole. One leg will hang free. Tuck the stuffed shirt into the waist of the pants or overalls. Fasten the waist of the trousers to the pole with a rope or belt, tying the belt or rope to the cross-piece to ensure the pants don’t fall down! Stuff the pants with the stuffing material of your choice. Make a head for your scarecrow by stuffing straw into a white or tan pillowcase. Tie the pillowcase opening onto the top of the long stake with rope and tuck the excess into the shirt, trimming with scissors if needed. Glue on buttons for eyes, a triangle of felt or black fabric and yarn for a mouth. Affix a straw hat with wire. Stick the scarecrow in the ground or tie it securely in another location.
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What is it about the change of seasons that just grabs you and readies you for the next few months’ ride on the circling calendar of life? Perhaps it is the smell of the damp forest in the fall or the fabulous views of rivers and streams surrounded by the dazzling colors of autumn that get you in the mood for the holiday filled season to come. Rivers adorned with shades of yellows, oranges and deep reds beckon you to notice. Valleys, too, are filled with the fabulous colors of fall and you won’t need to travel far to find a fabulous autumn display. Here are some our favorite drives, hikes and rides in Northeastern California, where the Sierras meet the Cascade Mountain Range.
LASSEN NATIONAL PARK
Take a beautiful drive through Lassen National Park before the snow flies. Not only will you experience magnificent fall color as if painted against skies of blue, you will find those famous boiling sulfur pots and crystal clear lakes among amazing views (any time of year!). Enter from Highway 36 between Chester and Red Bluff (Southwest entrance): GPS: 40°26’08″N 121°32’02″W From Red Bluff, California: The Southwest entrance is approximately 45 miles east on Highway 36. From Reno, Nevada: The Southwest entrance is 160 miles west of Reno, Nevada via Highway 395 and Highway 36.
The Kohm Yah-mah-nee Visitor Center is open all year - daily, closed December 24 at 12:30 and December 25. The visitors center is open November 1 - May 27 from 9 am to 5 pm and May 28 - October 31 9 am to 6 pm. It includes a gift shop, dining area and exhibits. A movie presentation is also offered. Information and park publications are available, including maps, trail and road guides, field guides, and children’s activities. Ranger-led programs are available in summer. Amenities include restrooms, restaurant and gift shop, a bookstore and first aid. Nearest fuel is in Chester, 30 miles east on Highway 36. Other fuel is 41 miles west in Red Bluff. Lassen Cafe & Gifts is located inside the Kohm Yah-mah-nee Visitor Center as a separate concession, not necessarily open at all times the visitor center is open. You can contact the visitor center at (530) 595-4480 for more information.
BIZZ JOHNSON TRAIL – For equestrian use, hiking, biking and cross-country skiing in winter
This beautiful trail is a ‘Rails to Trails’ conversion. Following the old Fernley and Lassen Branch Line of the Southern Pacific railroad, the trail winds 25.4 miles from Susanville to Mason Station. For the first 16 miles, the trail follows the Susan River.
Autumn is one of the most popular seasons to visit the Bizz Johnson Trail. As the changing foliage of cottonwoods turn the river bottoms golden yellow, willows along the river take on various tones of red and golden yellow, and oaks scattered through the landscape add accents of bright orange. Autumn visitors should prepare for cooler temperatures at this altitude – from about 4,000 to 5,500 feet above sea level. Temperatures during an autumn day may range from a nighttime low in the 20s to a daylight high in the 70s. For current trail and weather conditions, call the area BLM office at (530) 257-0456.
HIKE ALONG THE LAKE?
Have the time and energy to veer off for a hike or bicycle ride along the shoreline of a beautiful mountain lake? Consider a stop for a trek on the Lake Almanor Recreation Trail. Start your bike ride or hike on the lake by taking Almanor-Butt Reservoir Road off Highway 89 to Almanor Drive West. Turn right. A half mile or so after Carol’s Cafe, watch for the trailhead and parking lot on your left. Spectacular views of the lake, Dyer Mountain and Lassen Peak can be enjoyed along the entire paved trail. The newest segment of the trail can be accessed at the boat ramp on Hwy. 89 near the junction of Hwy. 147. All offer stunning views. If you want to stay nearby, Wilson’s Camp Prattville and Plumas Pines Resort offer lodging within bicycle distance.
A STOP IN GRAEAGLE
Another beautiful fall spot to drive to is the tiny town of Graeagle at the intersection of Hwy. 70 and Hwy. 89 (25 miles from Quincy). Turn onto Hwy. 89 and drive 1 mile to Graeagle where you will be greeted by a town painted red! This old lumber mill town now houses quaint gift shops and services with a picturesque Graeagle Mill Pond in the center of town. It’s easy spotting fall color along the Feather River and Gray Eagle Creek, and numerous hiking trails within Plumas Eureka State Park and the Lakes Basin Recreation Area also provide excellent off-road foliage viewing. For information on places to stay in Plumas County, contact the Plumas County Visitors Bureau, where you can also pick up information on dozens of fall color hot spots in Plumas County. Visit.plumascounty.org or call or visit them at 550 Crescent St. (Highway 70), one-half mile west of downtown Quincy, CA 95971, (800) 326-2247 or (530) 283-6345.
Sources: US National Parks Service, US Bureau of Land Management, Plumas County Visitors Bureau
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There are plenty of reasons to establish a game night in your family. If you don’t get enough participation, invite friends and extended family to join in the fun. Not only are games entertaining, they help kids in many ways.
- Games provide families with simple fun-filled ways to spend quality time together.
- Games require players to exercise their intellect.
- Playing games provides opportunities to challenge and develop strategic thinking skills.
- Games teach life skills like patience, concentration, teamwork, honesty, making choices and perseverance.
- Games teach kids how to win and lose graciously.
- Family games provide hours of family fun! One of our favorites is Yahtzee! It helps kids learn to add and can be played by kids of any age with a little help from the scorekeeper.
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By Melissa Wynn
Summer fun around Susanville means hiking the miles of scenic nearby trails. Susanville Ranch Park is a local favorite offering 22 miles of non-motorized, multi-use trails with spectacular meadow and valley views. The park’s southern portion winds around the meadows and up Paiute Creek Canyon on a gentle grade with a more challenging climb on Coyote Bluff. Wide open spaces and 2 creeks make this a great choice for families with children and pets. More experienced hikers seem to prefer the 14 miles of many loop options, challenging climbs and back turns of the northern section. Susanville Ranch Park is an awesome hiking, biking and horseback riding choice for all ages.
If you prefer a shadier hike through the woods, then The Bizz Johnson Trail is for you. Following the old Fernley and Lassen Branch Line of the Southern Pacific Railroad, the trail winds 25.4 miles from Susanville to Mason Station. For the first 16 miles, the trail follows the Susan River. As it winds through the rugged Susan River Canyon, the trail crosses the river 12 times on bridges and trestles and passes through two tunnels. The landscape is a combination of semi-arid canyon and stunning upland forests. The”Bizz” then follows existing roads an additional 4.5 miles into Westwood, a truly beautiful mountain stroll all are invited to enjoy. Come join us on these fun, scenic hikes of Susanville.
Facts courtesy of susanvilleranchpark.com and blm.gov
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Reno is brimming with excitement the first week in August with car enthusiasts from all over the country packing in for Hot August Nights as they have since its inception in 1986. Nostalgia from the ’50′s and ’60′s is spread across the Reno Sparks region and events are planned for the more than 800,000 spectators expected. The event runs from August 1st throughout 10th. There are special events and live music planned for all over town. Here are the highlights.
- Aug. 1: $500 customer choice show n’ shine, 4-9 p.m. at the Summit Sierra Mall, 13925 S. Virginia Street
- Aug. 2: Hot August Nights River Wine Walk, 3-6 p.m. in Downtown Reno
- Aug. 3: Pre-kick-off party and show n’ shine, 10 a.m.-6 p.m. in Downtown Reno
- Aug. 4: Sparks pre-kick-off party and open cruise in Downtown Sparks
- Aug. 5: Guinness Book of World Records Hula Hoop contest, 6-8 p.m. at the Atlantis Casino Resort
- Aug. 6: Classic Hot Rod Showcase, 8-8:30 p.m., Peppermill Hotel Casino
- Aug. 7: Johnny Barron and the Bel Aires live, 7-9:45 p.m. , Peppermill Hotel Casino
- Aug. 8: Ftizgerald’s Show n’ Shine, 11:30 a.m. to 10 p.m., Fitzgerald’s Reno
- Aug. 9: Drag racing and burnouts, 6 p.m.-1 a.m., Reno-Fernley Raceway
- Aug. 10: Car Awards Presentation and Parade of Champions, 8:30 a.m., Downtown Reno
For a complete list of the dozens of Hot August Nights events, visit http://www.hotaugustnights.net/eventschedule or get the scoop at visitrenotahoe.com.
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By Eileen Majors
It is once again that favored month of the year for chefs who enjoy the culinary experience of fresh blackberries, hand picked mountain style. The flavor is enormous, the effort sometimes frustrating. Though I have tried many ways to stay clear of the thorns, the truth is berry-stained hands and clothing, along with a few thorns to the fingers, are just part of the deal. Worth it?… You might not think so and I would likely agree with you at first notion but in reality I try to venture out every year just because there is really, in my opinion, nothing better than warm berry pie and smooth vanilla ice cream.
To find fresh blackberries, look along the springs, rivers and creekbeds. I love going down into Seneca, a little mining town near Lake Almanor. Often you will see berry bushes alongside the road. Keep your eyes peeled and look for the dark purple berries. The red ones are not ripe yet. You can also contact a local chamber of commerce for hot spots. Right after the trip, I make berry pie, but with all the extra berries, I end up trying new recipes. I hope you like this one. To find our past recipes for blackberries including a blackberry smoothie, blackberry muffins, blackberry cream cheese croissants and of course my favorite, blackberry pie, visit us at mountainvalleyliving.com and search recipes.
Note: Freeze berries on a single layer on cookie sheets then move frozen to bags for easy, one-at-a-time access later.
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Your road trip to the Lake Almanor Basin could take some real time, if you have it. There are several lakeside inns and RV parks all around the lake. As you venture in from the Quincy area on Highway 89, if you keep going straight you will find the west shore resort area with two resorts with cabins, lakeside restaurants, RV spots, boat slips and Majors’ Outpost Boat & SeaDoo Rentals where Joe, John and the crew will be ready to show you a good time.
Jared Johnson of Majors Outpost gives country star Chuck Wicks and his friends the low down on riding Sea Doos before they headed out to the Dorado Inn on the east shore.
The rental outfit is located under a giant green tent on the beach at Plumas Pines Resort, where it has been for over two decades. There you are going to find all kinds of boats for rent and a ton more fun available on their SeaDoo watercraft. These guys will make you feel right at home while they educate you with the skills needed to master the watercraft of your choice. Choices include everything from aluminum fishing boats to competition ski boats with wakeboard booms. Plush and comfy pontoon boats offer shade and the luxury of swimming and relaxing on board. Some have barbecues. Contact Majors Outpost Boat & SeaDoo Rentals at 530-259-2727 (They are open through September.) or call the resorts: Plumas Pines Resort at 530-259-4343 or Camp Pratville can be reached at (530) 259-2267. Both are located on Almanor Drive West, lakeside, with the official addresses in Canyon Dam, CA.
The west shore is located just 10 minutes from Chester or 10 minutes from the east shore. Each of those is just another 10 minutes or so from the Lake Almanor Peninsula. Among the area are dozens of great places to stay and eat as well as several campgrounds. Our travels took us down the Lake Almanor Peninsula where Gamboni’s Peninsula Grill will dazzle you with fabulous cuisine, elegant ambiance and their casual, lakeside ways.
On a stop in at Big Cove Resort, we found happy campers in their beautiful RV park with a giant marina and 187 boat slips and state of the art docking facilities available for a day or a season. There are beautiful RV sites available for regular, seasonal visitors who will make the spot their ‘home away from home’. Other sites are available for short term stays. Beautiful lawns, rock walls and paved roads make for a very nice park. It is also a short walk to dining and shopping from Big Cove Resort.
We ventured out on a dock at Big Cove Resort to check out their boat rentals too. Among the rental fleet of fishing boats, pontoon boats, kayaks, paddle boats, canoes and water bikes, we ran into these kids with a catch of crawdads!
Beyond the resort area on the peninsula lies the Lake Almanor Country Club with golf course and restaurant as well as Bailey Creek Golf Course just up the road. Lake Almanor West Golf Course offers a scenic nine hole course on the west shore. A pass through the Hamilton Branch and back to Highway 147 towards Susanville will take you through the historic logging town of Westwood. A small but challenging ski hill and Goodrich Creek are found on Highway 36 between Westwood and Susanville, where more fun awaits.
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Bailey Creek…Where golf and customer service are above reproach.
Bailey Creek has become a traditional destination for an annual golfing vacation for myself and many of my fellow golfers. Each year we try to figure out a new location to try and we usually decide to go back there. The three hour drive from Sacramento is actually quite peaceful.
From the moment we check in at the Chalets (which are located overlooking the driving range), we are treated as though we are good friends of the community.
The men and women working in the pro-shop/restaurant offer nothing short of the friendliest of demeanors. They really know how to treat their guests.
Now, about the GOLF! Oh, the golf. Bailey Creek offers a mountain golf getaway that is both a fair yet challenging track that can be appreciated by both the 5 handicap as well as the 20 handicap. The course can provide challenges if you dare feel too confident, or can be welcoming if you choose to play it safe. Sure, a couple of the par 5’s can be reached in two, but do you dare. Bailey Creek gives the golfer the option…and that’s part of the fun!
The greens at this course have never been less than immaculate. They are large with just enough undulations to make putting an entertaining challenge. But, do be careful. Be on the wrong side of a hole, and that birdie putt could very easily turn into a bogey! Again, all part of the fun!
From the lush fairways, to the huge pines lining fairways, Bailey Creek offers a truly exceptional mountain golf outing that has never failed to leave me or my fellow golfers excited to come back.
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bigstock photo
USDA APHIS PPQ Archive, USDA APHIS PPQ, Bugwood.org 
