Home for the Holidays

A special magazine published by Feather Publishing, Inc. for the Lassen County Times, Westwood PinePress and Chester Progressive

Enjoy Complimentary Cookies and Cocoa in our festive Santa’s Wonderland Showroom

Merry Christmas from SUSANVILLE AUTO CENTER susanvilleautocenter.com

530.257.5092 • 888.378.5621 • Hwy 36 & Richmond Rd. E., Susanville

Keep your money here at home While shopping locally during the holidays does have its economic benefits, a local shop owner also believes it can improve the overall experience of holiday shopping.

“You get friendly, local service,” said Kelly Smith, Hodge Podge Lodge owner. “It’s just that hometown cozy feel … you can actually enjoy the holiday.”

She also said local businesses offer a wealth of products from gifts, to cupcakes, clothes and food.

She said added perks of shopping locally include getting extra touches like friendly service, free gift-wrapping in some cases and a holiday atmosphere.

However, there are many benefits of spending hard-earned dollars at local businesses.

According to the Think. Shop. Buy. Local website, for every $1 spent at local businesses, 45 cents is reinvested locally.

“Whenever you buy local, the money stays local,” said Smith, adding that spending in small towns helps keep characteristic and small businesses alive.

“If you take business out of town, we will disappear,” added Smith.

So take the time, enjoy the small-town friendly atmosphere and help boost the local economy.

A Magical Country Christmas ...........................40, 41 Calendar of Holiday Events ..................................4, 5 Chester/Lake Almanor .......................................32, 33 Church Services ......................................................22 Community Choral Christmas Carousal..................27 First Thanksgiving.....................................................6 Giving Guns as Gifts..........................................20, 21 Graeagle Invites You ...............................................44 Holiday Family Portraits .........................................10 Holiday Gift Guide .............................................16, 17 Hospice Tree-Lighting Ceremony ...........................24 Indian Valley ......................................................42, 43 My Favorite Holiday Memory...................................37 New Year’s Eve History...........................................46 Nonprofit Organizations ....................................18, 19

Home for the Holidays 2015

Pet Safety during the Holidays ...............................33

A Special Magazine created by the staff of

Photos with Santa ...................................................34

Feather Publishing Co., Inc.

Recipes Beef Stroganoff ....................................................30

Publishers of:

Classic Green Bean Casserole ............................10

Lassen County Times • Westwood PinePress Chester Progressive

Good Gravy Secrets ...............................................9

Michael C. Taborski, Publisher Kevin Mallory, Vice President Administration Sam Williams, Lassen Managing Editor Susan Cort Johnson, Westwood Editor Jill Atkinson, General Manager / Advertising Director Tom Forney, Production Manager

Potatoes Au Gratin...............................................12 Pumpkin Mousse Pie ..............................................8 Pumpkin Pie Dump Cake........................................8 Tamales for Christmas...................................34, 35 Turkey Enchiladas................................................15 Zesty Yogurt Holiday Dip .......................................7 Rotary Christmas Party...........................................38

Robert Mahenski, Project Editor

Seven Steps to the Best Turkey .............................12

Contributing Writers/Production: Sam Williams, Susan Cort Johnson, Jennifer Kempton, Makenzie Davis, Joshua McEachern, Maggie Wells, Gregg Scott

Skiing Coppervale ...................................................23

Advertising Staff: Jill Atkinson, Laura Tew, Erika Giusti, Valorie Chisholm, Cheri McIntire

The Nutcracker Ballet.............................................29

Graphics: Cindie Tamietti, Manager

Westwood’s Christmas In The Mountains ........30, 31

Home for the Holidays 2015

Susanville City Kickettes ........................................28 Susanville Symphony Christmas Concert...............26 Thanksgiving Day Turkey Trot ................................13 Turkey Carving Tips ................................................14

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Holiday Calendar of Events Now through Sunday, Dec. 13 Salvation Army Angel Tree Residents are invited to help fulfill the Christmas wishes of local youngsters by picking their name off an Angel Tree. This year, Angel Trees will be located at Treats Natural Pet Marketplace, Starbucks on the corner, Customer Talk, Walmart, Walgreens, Billington Ace Hardware, Hair Hunters and the Lassen County Federal Credit Union. The deadline to buy gifts for children with tags on the Angel Tree is Sunday, Dec. 13.

For more information, call 257-0314.

Hospice Tree Lighting Ceremony in Susanville The Honey Lake Valley Hospice hosts a tree-lighting ceremony at 6:30 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 21 at Eagle Lake Village in Susanville.

For more information, call 251-3137.

Hospice Tree Lighting Ceremony in Chester Sierra Hospice hosts a tree-lighting ceremony at 6 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 21 at 150 Brentwood Drive in Chester (next to Seneca Hospital Long Term Care).

For more information, call 258-3412.

Blue Star Moms Country Christmas Craft Fair The Soaring Eagle Chapter of the Blue Star Mothers host a Country Christmas Craft Fair from 5 to 8 p.m. Friday, Dec. 4 at the Veterans Memorial Hall.

For more information, call 257-4323.

Main Street Sparkle in Quincy The annual Main Street Sparkle event will be held Friday, Dec. 4 on Main Street in Quincy.

For more information, call 283-0188.

Saturday, Dec. 5 Hobby Craft Fair Lassen Family Services and the California Correctional Center host the annual Hobby Craft Fair from 4 to 8 p.m. Saturday Dec. 5 at the Lassen County Fairgrounds.

For more information, call 257-4599.

Thursday, Nov. 26 Happy Thanksgiving!

A Magical Country Christmas The Lassen County Chamber of Commerce presents A Magical Country Christmas from 5 to 7 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 5 in Uptown Susanville.

For more information, call 257-4323.

Thanksgiving Day Turkey Trot Lassen Senior Services hosts the second annual Thanksgiving Day Turkey Trot at 8:30 a.m. Thursday, Nov. 26. Cash or non-perishable food item donations will benefit the Meals on Wheels program.

For more information, call 257-2113.

Toys For Tots Lassen County’s Search and Rescue will collect toys for local children at business locations around the county or at the Magical Country Christmas celebration held in Uptown Susanville on Saturday, Dec. 5.

For more information, call 260-1222.

Thanksgiving Day Dinner Crossroads Ministries, located at 2410 Main St., hosts a Thanksgiving Day Dinner at 2 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 26.

For more information, call 251-0701.

Holiday Craft Boutique The Susanville Assembly of God Church, located at 473-465 Richmond Road North, holds a holiday craft boutique sale from 4 to 8 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 5.

For more information, call 257-5000.

Friday, Nov. 27 Chester Merchants’ Open House The Chester merchants host an open house from 5 to 7 p.m. Friday, Nov. 27 on Main Street in Chester.

For more information, call 258-2426.

Saturday, Nov. 28 Eagle Lake Village Craft Fair Eagle Lake Village hosts a craft fair from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 28.

For more information, call 257-6673.

Taylorsville Light Parade The annual Taylorsville Light Parade begins at 4 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 27 with a chili dinner at the Taylorsville Tavern followed by the Tree Lighting at 5 p.m. and the Light Parade at 6 p.m.

For more information, call 284-7622 or 284-9985.

Sunday, Nov. 29 Hanging of the Green Service The First Baptist Church of Westwood at Fourth and Delwood streets hosts a Hanging of the Green Service at 5 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 29. This service will entail singing Christmas carols and putting the final touches on church decorations. It concludes with a potluck dinner.

For more information, call 213-3458.

Tuesday, Dec. 1 Lassen Family Services’ Toy Drive Lassen Family Services begins its annual toy drive for new, and unwrapped gifts. The gifts may be dropped off at the LFS office, located at 1306 Riverside Drive, or at Lassen High School, Safeway, Susanville Supermarket IGA and Anytime Fitness through Monday, Dec. 14.

For more information, call 257-4599.

Friday, Dec. 4 Christmas In The Mountains The Westwood Chamber of Commerce hosts Christmas in the Mountains on Friday, Dec. 4.

The event begins with a parade on Third Street at 6 p.m. and more.

For more information, call 256-2456.

Susanville City Kickettes Christmas Extraordinaire The Kickettes’ Christmas Extraordinaire is scheduled for 7:00 p.m. Friday, Dec. 4 and 5, at the Veterans Memorial Hall. For more information, call 2601575.

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Festival of Lights The Lassen County Fairgrounds sponsors The Festival of Lights from 5 to 9 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 5. No vehicles will be allowed that night due to the Hobby Craft Fair.

For more information, call 251-8900.

Community Choral Christmas Carousal The Susanville Choral Society hosts the second annual Community Choral Christmas Carousal from 3 to 5 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 5 at Artisan Coffee in Janesville.

For more information, call 251-6738.

Blue Star Moms Country Christmas Craft Fair The Soaring Eagle Chapter of the Blue Star Mothers host a Christmas Craft Fair from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 5 at the Veterans Memorial Hall in Susanville.

For more information, call 257-4323.

Graeagle Holiday Festival The Graeagle merchants host the annual Graeagle Holiday Festival from 1 to 5 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 5 in Graeagle.

For more information, call 836-1856.

Chimney Fund Costume Ball The Chimney Fund hosts a costume ball from 8 p.m. to 2 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 5, at the Double G Ironhorse Saloon in Westwood. The ball is called the Charity Beyond the Mask Charity Ball.

For more information, call 256-2621.

Community Chorus and Lake Almanor Handbells The Community Chorus and Lake Almanor Handbells perform at 7 p.m.

Saturday, Dec. 5 at the Chester Community Methodist Church, located at the corner of Greenwood Drive and Main Street in Chester.

For more information, call 258-2345.

Christmas Tree Lighting The Doyle Senior Building hosts a Christmas Tree Lighting Celebration at 5 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 5.

For more information, call 827-2271.

Sunday, Dec. 6 Hobby Craft Fair Lassen Family Services and the California Correctional Center host the annual Hobby Craft Fair from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 6 at the Lassen

County Fairgrounds.

For more information, call 257-4599.

Holiday Craft Boutique The Susanville Assembly of God Church, located at 473-465 Richmond Road North, holds a holiday craft boutique sale from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 6.

For more information, call 257-5000.

Festival of Lights The Lassen County Fairgrounds sponsors The Festival of Lights from 5 to 9 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 6.

For more information, call 251-8900.

Community Chorus and Lake Almanor Handbells The Community Chorus and Lake Almanor Handbells perform at 7 p.m.

Saturday, Dec. 5 at the Chester Community Methodist Church, located at the corner of Greenwood Drive and Main Street in Chester.

For more information, call 258-2345.

Thursday, Dec. 10 LHS Christmas Concert The Lassen High School Choir presents a Christmas Concert at 7 p.m.

Thursday, Dec. 10 at the Student Center.

For more information, call 257-2141.

“A Christmas Carol” Dramaworks at the West End Theatre in Quincy hosts a 1940s Radio Play production of the Charles Dickens’ classic “A Christmas Carol” at 7 p.m.

Thursday, Dec. 10.

For more information, call 283-1956.

Friday, Dec. 11 Festival of Lights The Lassen County Fairgrounds sponsors The Festival of Lights from 5 to 9 p.m. Friday, Dec. 11.

For more information, call 251-8900.

Santa Book Signing Santa will be signing books from 4 to 6 p.m. Friday, Dec. 11 at Books and Beyond, 140 Main St., Chester.

For more information, call 258-2150.

“A Christmas Carol” Dramaworks at the West End Theatre in Quincy hosts a 1940s Radio Play production of the Charles Dickens’ classic “A Christmas Carol” at 7 p.m.

Friday, Dec. 11.

For more information, call 283-1956.

Saturday, Dec. 12 Festival of Lights The Lassen County Fairgrounds sponsors The Festival of Lights from 5 to 9 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 12.

For more information, call 251-8900.

“The Nutcracker Ballet” The Lassen County Arts Council, Best of Broadway and the Reno Dance Company present “The Nutcracker Ballet” at 3 and 7 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 12 at Veterans Memorial Hall, For more information, call 257-5222. ‘“A Christmas Carol” Dramaworks at the West End Theatre in Quincy hosts a 1940s Radio Play production of the Charles Dickens’ classic “A Christmas Carol” at 7 p.m.

Saturday, Dec. 12.

For more information, call 283-1956.

Greenville Christmas Bazaar The Roundhouse Council hosts a Christmas Bazaar at the Greenville Community Center on Saturday, Dec. 12. This is a morning and afternoon event.

For more information, call 284-6633.

Greenville Festival of Trees The Greenville Community Center hosts the annual Festival of Trees event, time TBA, Saturday, Dec. 12.

For more information, call 284-6633.

Home for the Holidays 2015

Free Holiday Dinner The Indian Valley chapter of the American Legion hosts its annual free holiday dinner, time TBA, Saturday, Dec. 12.

For more information, call 284-6633.

Sunday, Dec. 13 Festival of Lights The Lassen County Fairgrounds sponsors The Festival of Lights from 5 to 9 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 13.

For more information, call 251-8900.

“The Nutcracker Ballet” The Lassen County Arts Council, Best of Broadway and the Reno Dance Company present “The Nutcracker Ballet” at 2 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 13 at Veterans Memorial Hall, For more information, call 257-5222.

“A Christmas Carol” Dramaworks at the West End Theatre in Quincy hosts a 1940s Radio Play production of the Charles Dickens’ classic “A Christmas Carol” at 2 p.m.

Sunday, Dec. 13.

For more information, call 283-1956.

Wednesday, Dec. 16 Last Day to donate to CASA Angel Tree Wednesday, Dec. 16 is the last day to make a donation to Lassen Family Services’ Court Appointed Special Advocates Angel Tree. Donations of unwrapped gifts will be accepted at LFS, 1306 Riverside Drive, until noon Wednesday, Dec. 16.

For more information, call 257-4599.

Greenville Band Concert The Greenville Junior/Senior High School band play holiday favorites at the annual Christmas Concert in the Indian Valley Elementary School Cafeteria, time TBA, Wednesday, Dec. 16.

For more information, call 284-6633.

Thursday, Dec. 17 “A Christmas Carol” Dramaworks at the West End Theatre in Quincy hosts a 1940s Radio Play production of the Charles Dickens’ classic “A Christmas Carol” at 7 p.m.

Thursday, Dec. 17.

For more information, call 283-1956.

Friday, Dec. 18 Last Day for LSS’ Senior Drive Lassen Senior Services’ drive to help senior citizens during the holidays ends Friday, Dec. 18. LSS is located at 1700 Sunkist Ave. For more information, call 257-2113.

Festival of Lights The Lassen County Fairgrounds sponsors The Festival of Lights from 5 to 9 p.m. Friday, Dec. 18.

For more information, call 251-8900.

Sunday Dec. 20 at Monsignor Moran Hall.

For more information, call 251-0701.

Festival of Lights The Lassen County Fairgrounds sponsors The Festival of Lights from 5 to 9 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 20.

For more information, call 251-8900.

“A Very Classical Christmas” The Susanville Symphony Society presents “A Very Classical Christmas” at 2:30 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 20 at the Susanville Assembly of God Church, 473465 Richmond Road.

For more information, call 310-8111 or go to www.SusanvilleSymphony.com.

“A Very Classical Christmas” The Susanville Symphony Society presents “A Very Classical Christmas” at 7 p.m. Friday, Dec. 18 at the Susanville Assembly of God Church, 473-465 Richmond Road.

For more information, call 310-8111 or go to www.SusanvilleSymphony.com.

Christmas Play Children who participate in The Good Shepherd Club at the First Baptist Church will perform a play at 5 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 20.

“A Christmas Carol” Dramaworks at the West End Theatre in Quincy hosts a 1940s Radio Play production of the Charles Dickens’ classic “A Christmas Carol” at 7 p.m.

Friday, Dec. 18.

For more information, call 283-1956.

“A Christmas Carol” Dramaworks at the West End Theatre in Quincy hosts a 1940s Radio Play production of the Charles Dickens’ classic “A Christmas Carol” at 2 p.m.

Sunday, Dec. 10.

For more information, call 283-1956.

Saturday, Dec. 19 Toys for Tots Distribution Toys for Tots Christmas gifts will be distributed on Saturday, Dec. 19 For more information, call 260-1222.

Thursday, Dec. 24 Christmas Eve

Festival of Lights The Lassen County Fairgrounds sponsors The Festival of Lights from 5 to 9 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 19.

For more information, call 251-8900.

“A Christmas Carol” Dramaworks at the West End Theatre in Quincy hosts a 1940s Radio Play production of the Charles Dickens’ classic “A Christmas Carol” at 7 p.m.

Saturday, Dec. 13.

For more information, call 283-1956.

Festival of Lights The Lassen County Fairgrounds sponsors The Festival of Lights at 5 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 24.

For more information, call 251-8900.

Friday, Dec. 25 Merry Christmas!

Thursday, Dec. 31 New Year’s Eve Friday, Jan. 1 Happy New Year!

Sunday, Dec. 20 Crossroads Ministries Christmas Dinner Crossroads Ministries hosts its annual Christmas Dinner at 6 p.m.

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ENTS V E Y A HOLID ASSES! & CL A Christmas Wonderland with fresh holiday wreaths & centerpieces, candles, nativities, tabletop décor, specialty gifts, organic gourmet food, jewelry, hats, scarves and handbags.

251-2330 • 705-670 Hwy 395E • Home for the Holidays 2015

OPEN 7 DAYS MON-SAT 10-5 • SUN 10-3 Susanville • 1/2 mile from Hwy 395 / 36 intersection 5

The First Thanksgiving For many, the Thanksgiving holiday means football, a turkey full of stuffing and enough pumpkin pie to satisfy the most demanding sweet tooth.

However, the holiday that falls on the fourth Thursday of every November came to be a national holiday for many other reasons.

The first Thanksgiving, as Americans have come to know it, was not an official holiday until 1863 when President Abraham Lincoln declared the holiday be celebrated every fall as the states were in the middle of the Civil War, according to the History

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Channel website.

The original autumn feast shared between the Plymouth colonists and the Wampanoag Indians in 1621 was the basis for the holiday, spurring individual colonies and states to celebrate days of thanksgiving until the permanent celebration was set.

When colonists arrived in Plymouth in 1620, they faced a brutal winter where many did not live to see the following spring.

According to www.history.com, in March the remaining settlers moved to shore from the Mayflower and were greeted by a Native American from an Abenaki tribe, who later returned with Squanto, a member of the Pawtuxet tribe, who then taught the colonists how to cultivate corn, catch fish and avoid poisonous plants. Squanto also helped the colonists form an alliance with the local tribe, the Wampanoag.

Upon the Pilgrims’ first successful corn harvest, they hosted a celebratory feast, and the guests included the Wampanoag chief.

Home for the Holidays 2015

ZESTY YOGURT HOLIDAY DIP

Get Ready for the HOLIDAYS!

3 cups plain yogurt, any variety 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese 2 tbsp. lemon juice 1 tbsp. olive oil 1 tsp. chopped garlic Salt and cracked pepper to taste Yield: 8 2-tbsp. servings For optimal consistency, strain yogurt for 20 minutes in a yogurt strainer or cheesecloth.

Combine all ingredients in a medium bowl and mix well. Season with salt and cracked pepper. Serve with fresh vegetables.

Our staff wishes you and your family a wonderful holiday season.

252-5012 • Fax 257-2394

2920 D Main Street • Susanville

Home for the Holidays 2015

Sale expires 11/30/15

Billington

Hardware

2950 Main Street • Susanville, CA 96130

(530) 257-4117

STORE HOURS: Mon-Sat 8am-6pm • Sunday 9am-5pm Arlin Billington Owner

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PUMPKIN MOUSSE PIE

PUMPKIN PIE DUMP CAKE

CRUST: 1/2 box Ginger Snaps, coarsely crushed 1/2 cup butter, melted

1 large can pumpkin (3 cups) 1 13-oz. can evaporated milk 4 tsp. pumpkin pie spice 1 cup sugar 3 eggs, beaten 1/2 tsp. salt 1 box yellow cake mix 1-1/2 cups butter, melted 1-1/2 cups chopped walnuts

Mix these two items together, put the pie pan in the freezer to set while you’re making the rest.

4 oz. softened cream cheese 1 tbsp. milk 1 tbsp. sugar Mix these three items together until smooth. Stir in 1-1/2 cups whipped topping, spread over bottom of crust. Pour 1-1/2 cups milk into bowl, add 2 boxes (4oz. serving size) Pumpkin Spice Pudding, beat with wire whisk, stir in 2 cups whipped topping. Spread over cream cheese mixture. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours.

Come see us for all your holiday shopping needs!

Christmas Eve Delivery Available!

Layaway Available

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Lightly grease a 9”x13” baking pan. Mix pumpkin, evaporated milk, pumpkin pie spice, sugar, beaten eggs and salt. Pour into greased pan. Sprinkle cake mix over the pumpkin mixture. Pour the melted butter over the cake mix. Sprinkle the chopped nuts over the top. Do not stir the layers.

Bake at 350 degrees for about 50 minutes or until crisp and brown.

NO INTEREST WITH PAYMENTS FOR 6 MONTHS!*

— Main Street Susanville in front of Walmart —

2800 MAIN ST., SUSANVILLE • 530.257.7788 • www.zaengles.com *Interest will be calculated on your account from the purchase date. If the purchase balance is not paid in full within 6 months or if you make a late payment, interest will be charged on the total purchase.

Home for the Holidays 2015

Your best results come from sticking to the basics.

Basic Reduction Sauce or Pan Gravy Yield: 1/2 cup 1 tablespoon minced shallot or onion 1/2 cup dry white (for fish, poultry or vegetables) or red (for red meats) wine 1/2 cup chicken, beef or vegetable stock, or water, warmed 2 tablespoons softened butter (optional) Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste A few drops of freshly squeezed lemon juice or vinegar (optional) Minced fresh parsley leaves for garnish Pour off all but 1 or 2 tablespoons of the cooking fat (if there are any dark, non-fatty juices in the skillet or roasting pan leave them in there). Turn the heat under the skillet or pan to medium-high and add the shallot and the wine. Cook, stirring and scraping, until most of the wine has evaporated, the shallot is soft and the bottom of the pan is clean.

Add the stock and repeat; when there is just under 1/2 cup of liquid, turn off the heat.

Add the butter, a little at a time, stirring well after each addition to incorporate it. Taste and season if necessary with salt, pepper and lemon juice or vinegar.

Spoon this sauce over the meat, garnish and serve.

Brown Turkey Gravy Yield: 12 (1/4-cup) servings.

3/4 cup water Chicken broth or water 1/4 cup all-purpose flour Salt Cracked pepper Deglaze pan by stirring 1/4-cup water into pan with drippings. Cook over medium-high heat, stirring and scraping pan (2 to 3 minutes).

Strain pan juices into 4-cup measure; remove excess fat, reserving 3 tablespoons fat.

Add enough chicken broth or water to equal 3 cups liquid; set aside.

Combine 3 cups pan juice mixture and 3 tablespoons reserved fat in 3-quart saucepan; cook over medium heat until mixture comes to a full boil (3 to 5 minutes).

Meanwhile, combine remaining 1/2-cup water and flour in jar with tight-fitting lid; shake well to mix. Slowly stir into hot pan juice mixture. Continue cooking, stirring constantly, until mixture comes to a full boil; boil 1 minute. Season to taste with salt and cracked pepper.

Basic Poultry Gravy Yield: 1-1/2 to 2 cups, depending on the size of the bird.

Wing tips, giblets (heart and gizzards) and neck from chicken, turkey or other bird 3 to 6 cloves garlic (depending on size of bird), smashed and peeled 1-3/4 to 3-1/2 cups basic chicken stock or canned, depending on size of bird; or, if available, use stock appropriate to bird Water, as needed 1 tablespoon chopped fresh herbs or 1/2-tsp. celery seeds per cup gravy, optional Kosher salt, to taste Freshly ground black pepper, to taste 1 to 2-1/ 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, optional 1 to 2-1/ 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour, optional Put the wing tips, giblets, neck (halved if from a large bird), garlic cloves and stock in the smallest pan that will hold ingredients comfortably. Cover and bring to a boil.

Reduce heat to a simmer and skim. Cook, uncovered, for 1 hour for chicken or up to 2

Home for the Holidays 2015

hours for turkey, until giblets are easily pierced with the point of a knife. Add 1 cup water each time the liquid has reduced by half. Do not start with more liquid or stock, or the gravy will not be a rich, dark color.

Skim occasionally. Remove the giblets, allowing them to cool.

Meanwhile, continue to cook stock 1 hour longer for chicken and up to 2 hours longer for turkey, until the neck bones fall apart. Add water as needed. For the last 20 minutes, let cook without adding any more water. Meanwhile, cut the heart and gizzards into thin slices or small cubes and reserve.

Strain the stock. Skim, off any remaining fat. Just before serving, add giblets and, if you wish, some fresh herbs or celery seeds. Pick meat from neck and add. Heat until warm throughout. Add deglazing liquid from the roasted bird, if available. Season to taste with salt and pepper.

This is now a very rich gravy, but here is an option for thicker gravy. Melt butter and stir in flour. Use a tablespoon of each for every cup of strained stock. Cook, stirring, for 4 minutes. Add giblets and seasonings. Heat until warm throughout.

SMOKED HOLIDAY MEATS Maple Sugar Cured Ham, Smoked Turkey and Roast Beef

HOLIDAY GIFT BASKETS Choose from a variety of gift baskets filled with our delicious meats.

Call and order yours today.

Family owned and operated. Made here in Lassen County.

GL&L Smokehouse 702-865 Richmond Road • Susanville

HOURS:

MON-FRI 8-5:30 SAT 9-4

(530) 257-2527 9

Christmas family portraits can be a challenge Sometimes the best laid schemes of mice, men and Christmas photographers go awry (with deep, deep, deep apologies to poet Robert Burns).

A case in point is the series of photographs above — taken a couple of Christmases ago as we gathered the family (Sam Williams, Cindie Tamietti and Tyson Schroeder) and the pets for a happy family portrait to send to loved ones, friends and neighbors to celebrate the season. Christmas, yes.

The idea was to gather the family and the animals together, snap a quick picture and then send our annual cheerful wish to everyone through the mail.

We quickly learned animals obviously don’t understand the importance of such projects, and anything out of the ordinary — such as setting up a chair and a camera on a tripod near an old tree in the backyard —

raises their curiosity and makes them more than a little anxious.

Just about the time we got the two dogs, Ike and Mercy, nearly arranged, Trouble the cat unclenched four paws of claws, released a high-pitched howl of protest that simply declared, “I’m outta here!” and bolted for parts unknown. We didn’t find that cantankerous feline for several hours, and he obviously missed the photo op.

We decided to recover and move on without Trouble, but the dogs decided to follow the cat’s unruly example. I mean, what dog doesn’t like to sniff and scratch upon arrival at a new location? The dogs didn’t bolt (their training and the collars around their necks attached to leashes probably helped a little), but they twisted and turned, faced the wrong direction and offered poses for the camera no self-respecting dog would ever even

consider.

And then, as Cindie tried to reel the dogs in one more time, their pulling tipped the chair and nearly spilled her onto the damp grass and pine needles. OK, it’s all good.

Eventually, we decided to use the photos of the debacle for our Christmas card instead of the intended portrait.

So beware if such a photograph is lurking out there in your future. I hope you have better luck than we did. Truth be told, we didn’t get the picture we wanted, but we sure had a lot of laughs along the way, and hopefully you’ll get a little smile reading about our Christmas family portrait fiasco.

Merry Christmas, everybody.

CLASSIC GREEN BEAN CASSEROLE 1 can (10-1/2 oz.) condensed cream of mushroom soup 3/4 cup milk 1/8 tsp. black pepper 4 cups cooked cut green beans 1-1/3 cups French-fried onions Mix soup, milk and pepper in a 1-1/2 quart baking dish. Stir in beans and 2/3 cup onions. Bake at 350 degrees for 30 min. Top with remaining onions. Bake 5 mins. until onions are golden.

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Home for the Holidays 2015

251-0101 • 1303 MAIN STREET, SUSANVILLE

OPEN 7 DAYS

Happy Holidays

from our family to yours!

Home for the Holidays 2015

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Seven easy steps to your best turkey yet Preparation is key in reducing stress this Thanksgiving Selecting, preparing and cooking the centerpiece of your family’s Thanksgiving meal can pile on a lot of stress.

However there are some easy ways to simplify the process.

“There are a lot of great choices, but they can certainly be overwhelming during a busy holiday,” says Theo Weening, Global Meat Buyer for Whole Foods Market.

Here are seven basic rules to ensure you have the perfect turkey for your holiday meal.

1. Plan ahead: Frozen turkeys can take several days to fully thaw. The safest method is by placing it on a tray in its packaging to catch drips, and put it in the refrigerator on the lowest shelf. Plan for one full day of thawing for every five pounds of turkey. If you’re short on time, put your turkey in a leak-proof wrapper and submerge it completely in cold tap water. The water should be changed every 30 minutes. Plan for 30 minutes of thawing time per pound.

2. Research: There are many different types of turkey to choose from. Some grocers carry a variety of birds and additionally have in-house butcher experts behind the counter to help you choose what is right for your taste and budget. Here are the five types of turkey you may find: •Organic: fed organic feed (that means no GMOs, among other things) and given access to the outdoors.

•Classic: known for their trifecta of flavor, quality and value.

•Heritage: rich, succulent, old-world breeds cherished for flavor.

•Heirloom: robust flavor with a higher percentage of dark meat.

•Kosher: certified kosher.

3. Size matters: A good rule of thumb is to buy 1.5 pounds of turkey per person, providing everyone a healthy portion while allowing for those sought-after leftovers.

4. Read the label: The best birds are raised with the highest standards. This means no antibiotics, no animal by-products in their feed, no added solutions or injections and no added growth hormones. To make it simple, shop at a store that only carries turkeys raised with these standards.

5. Brine: Soaking turkey in a saltwater solution for four to 24 hours before roasting keeps it tender and juicy. Try a

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brine kit for a simple and easy recipe.

6. Time it: It takes approximately 13 minutes per pound to cook a turkey at 350 degrees, and the turkey is done once it reaches 165 degrees.

Use a meat thermometer and insert it into the thickest part of the thigh (without hitting the bone) to test the temperature.

7. Rest: Wait 30 minutes before carving the turkey. Giving the turkey time to rest allows the juices to redistribute for better flavor.

When it comes to choosing and cooking your holiday turkey, preparation is key. Do your research, know what you like and enjoy the rest. (Statepoint)

POTATOES AU GRATIN 8 medium potatoes, sliced about 1/4” 3 tbsp. butter 3 tbsp. flour 2 cups milk 1-1/2 cup shredded cheese (cheddar and jack) Grease a 9”x13” baking pan. Layer sliced potatoes in pan, lightly season each layer with salt and pepper. In a sauce pan, melt butter, mix in flour and a little salt (about 1/2 teaspoon), stirring constantly. Stir in milk, cook until thickened.

Stir in cheese until melted. Pour over potatoes, cover pan with aluminum foil and bake for 75 to 90 minutes.

Home for the Holidays 2015

Third annual Thanksgiving Day Turkey Trot benefits Lassen Senior Services Area residents can burn off a bunch of those holiday calories before they even sit down with the family for a Thanksgiving Day feast and support Lassen Senior Services, an agency that provides food for seniors including the Meals on Wheels program, at the same time.

The third annual Thanksgiving Day Turkey Trot, held at 8:30 a.m. Thursday, Nov. 26, features a non-timed 5K event that begins at the Lassen County Hall of Justice.

There is no charge to participate in the event, but organizers ask runners, walkers and strollers of all ages to contribute a food item to Lassen Senior Services or make a cash donation.

Once again, prizes will be awarded for the best costume and the largest family group to participate.

Penny Artz, executive director of Lassen Senior Services, said the event helps her organization provide food to senior citizens across Lassen County.

“It’s a big deal, it truly is,” Artz said of the event. “It’s a way for us to raise awareness of the food insecurity among our seniors. We appreciate the Susanville Runners for putting this event on. Every little bit helps, especially with the rising cost of food.”

Participants will need to sign a waiver, available on the Lassen County Chamber of Commerce’s website. Volunteers and sponsors are also needed.

In addition to the Meals on Wheels program that delivers meals to homebound seniors, Lassen Senior Services provides low-cost meals for seniors four days per week in Susanville and Westwood and one day per week in Doyle.

“Its an event we hope the community will really embrace,” said race director Linda Powell. “It’s for a good cause, and it’s a chance to get the family out and be active. We’re hoping for a lot of families — big families. We hope people will come out and participate.”

Powell said the event is a fun run, not a timed event, and it is open to runners, walkers and strollers.

Last year’s event attracted almost 400 participants and in the past one family brought 27 participants!

For more information about the third annual Thanksgiving Day Turkey Trot, visit Linda Powell on Facebook, the susanvillerunners on Facebook, email www.bizzrunningco@gmail.com or call Katie Anderson at the Lassen County Chamber of Commerce at 257-4323.

Runners and walkers of all ages begin Thanksgiving Day at the Turkey Trot.

Home for the Holidays 2015

Several hundred local runners and walkers gather near the Lassen County Hall of Justice for the second annual Turkey Trot to benefit Lassen Senior Services. This year’s event begins at 8:30 a.m. Thanksgiving Day, Thursday, Nov. 26. File photos

Costumes are optional, and one participant donned a cap with a turkey on top.

This local family gets ready to start the Thanksgiving holiday at last year’s Turkey Trot.

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Cooking is only part of Thanksgiving or Christmas preparations. For many hosts, carving the bird represents the most intimidating feast feat.

Don’t chicken out! Here are some quick tips you can follow to demystify the process from the carving experts at Smith’s Housewares, a manufacturer of innovative knife sharpeners and kitchen tools: •The first thing you will want to carve out is a proper amount of time to cook the turkey. When coordinating your schedule that morning, keep in mind that between taking the turkey out of the oven and carving it, you should allot about 20 minutes. This waiting period is not frivolous. It makes the handling of the hot turkey easier

on your hands and gives the meat’s juices crucial time to redistribute.

•If your turkey is tied, remove the string first. Start by removing each leg and thigh from the body of the turkey, using your hands to separate, and your knife to slice through the meat.

•Next, separate the thighs from the legs by pulling on a leg and using your knife to slice. Target the ‘V’ area with your knife, feeling around until you find the joint.

Slice the meat away from the thighbone and place it directly on your serving platter.

•The next step is to remove the wings using a similar method. By identifying where the joint is, you can avoid

slicing bone.

•Using an even stroke, slice each breast from slightly off the midline. Slice down, gently pulling the breast away on the side you’ve chosen. Slice each breast into quarter-inch thick slices. Place on your platter.

Alternatively, cut slices of breast directly off the turkey, parallel to the rib cage. Just ensure you keep the slices even on both sides.

•Be a sharp chef. To make the job smooth sailing, and avoid tearing the meat and making a mess, use a sharp, straight-edge knife and a carving fork to steady your meat. You’ll save time and energy and get better results.

•In the days leading up to the holiday, make sure your kitchen is ready to go by sharpening all the knives you will need for food preparation that day, particularly your turkey-carving knife. A compact electric knife sharpener is a great kitchen essential to have on hand for everyday use, as well as for major holiday feasts, as it is ideal for precise sharpening of straight-edge knives.

•Add a garnish to the serving platter to make your turkey a feast for the eyes. As the main course, it deserves a bit of extra flair. Fresh in-season herbs, fruits and vegetables all work well to complete the look.

Don’t let the final throes of preparation be the most difficult on Turkey Day. All you need are the right, wellmaintained tools and proper technique. (Statepoint)

With the warmest of wishes to all our customers, associates and friends during this magical time of year.

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132 E. Sierra Ave

Home for the Holidays 2015

Send that leftover turkey south of the border Your family and guests devoured the turkey dinner you lovingly prepared for them this holiday season, but now you’ve got lots of leftovers you don’t want to go to waste.

Piled high sandwiches with lots of mayo, mustard, crisp lettuce and red tomatoes are great, but they lose quickly their appeal with the family. Here’s an easy way to put that leftover turkey to use by making some easy turkey enchiladas.

Shred, slice, chop or cube the turkey meat as you prefer. This recipe calls for 12 to 15 cups of turkey meat, and will make 30 enchiladas — three 9 by 13 pans. Season the meat to taste with one or two tablespoons of cumin, chili power, garlic power and a dash of salt and pepper. Mix well. Then add two pints of sour cream and mix again.

We like to fry our tortillas before making the enchiladas, but some people prefer to steam theirs or heat them in a microwave.

Put about 1/3 to 1/4 cup of the turkey mixture on a tortilla and add a sprinkle of green onions (you’ll need about two bunches), some diced Ortega chili (you’ll need a couple of cans, or you could use Serranos or jalapenos if your family prefers spicier dishes) a few

bits of chopped tomatoes (you’ll need three or four Romano tomatoes), a little cilantro (you’ll need a bunch or two), a tablespoon of tomatillo verde sauce (you’ll need four or five 12-once jars) and a mixture of queso fresco (three rounds) and cotija (one round) cheese, or you could use any cheese you like, such as pepper jack or cheddar.

Roll the tortilla and the mixture into an enchilada and place seam side down in a pan sprayed with a light coating of cooking spray. Each pan will hold 10 or 12 enchiladas.

Add two tablespoons of tomatillo sauce to the top of each enchilada and add more cheese and a few olive slices (you’ll need two small cans). You may add more tomatillo sauce if you prefer.

Cover the pan with aluminum foil and bake at 350 degrees for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake uncovered for another 10 minutes or until browned. Garnish with avocado, a dash of lime juice and maybe some hot sauce.

Let the pan sit for about 10 minutes before serving with your favorite Mexican side dishes such as rice or beans.

CUSTOMER TALK will be having Santa every Saturday until Christmas, beginning Nov. 28th - Dec. 19th 10am - 12pm

T-shirts • Hoodies Mugs • Cutting Boards • Ornaments and so much more!

Order anytime online at: We Have Gift Cards!

Also available at Margie’s Book Nook ($10 & $20 payable in cash.)

or bring us your ideas, pictures or logos and we’ll take it from there!

Home for the Holidays 2015

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The perfect gifts can be The Gift Boutique and Antiques From furniture to dishware to relics from the past, the Susanville shop has something to offer anyone who enjoys decorating their home.

The shop offers multiple variations of tea and china sets.

Location: 1430 Main St. in Susanville.

Every Bloomin’ Thing Every Bloomin’ Thing offers countless beautiful items for the gift recipient on your list. Choose from luxuriously warm sweaters and scarves, fashionable purses and the sweetest-smelling candles in addition to gardening supplies.

Location: 705-670 Hwy 395 East in Johnstonville.

The Elegant Iris & The Men’s Den Having a difficult person to shop for can be a hassle; however this shop has a wealth of options for both men and women. Check out the variety of camouflage gear, hunting supplies and trinkets.

Location: 618 Main St. in Susanville.

found right here at home...

Margie’s Book Nook Searching for the perfect gift for the reader in your life? Margie’s Book Nook has a wide selection of used and new books, including popular releases by George R.R. Martin, Bill O’Reilly and more.

Location: 722 Main St. in Susanville.

Sierra Jewelry Company Sierra Jewelry Company has a wide selection of stunning gifts for the jewelry-lover on your gift list.

Check out some snowflake and star designs, or choose a classic piece that will dazzle the recipient.

Location: 801 Main St. in Susanville.

Hodge Podge Lodge Who doesn’t love their house to smell fragrant and inviting during the holiday season? Hodge Podge Lodge has a wide variety of candles, wax melts and warmers to choose from. While there, pick up some fresh fudge for a little treat for yourself.

Location: 2206 Main St. in Susanville.

Local nonprofit organizations need your As the holiday season begins, and we set out to pick out those perfect gifts for our loved ones, let us not forget the ways we can help someone in the community have a merrier holiday.

Whether you are interested in donating food for Thanksgiving, assisting victims of abuse or providing a child with a Christmas gift, there are local programs you can help support.

Lassen Family Services Lassen Family Services is a nonprofit organization that assists victims of domestic violence, sexual assault and elder and child abuse.

Starting Dec. 1, the nonprofit will be holding a toy drive and will accept new, unwrapped toys through Dec. 14.

People can drop off toys for children ages 0 to 17 at the office at 1306 Riverside Drive.

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There will also be drop-off boxes at the front office of Lassen High School, Safeway, Susanville Supermarket IGA and Anytime Fitness.

This year LFS and California Correctional Center is holding a Hobby Craft Fair from 4 to 8 p.m. Friday, Dec. 5 and from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Saturday, Dec. 6 at the Lassen County Fairgrounds. Handcrafted wooden items made by the CCC fire camps will be auctioned off, with proceeds to benefit victims of crime in Lassen County.

Donations for an Angel Tree for CASA children will be accepted no later than noon Dec. 16. Unwrapped gifts should be dropped off at 1306 Riverside Drive.

Lassen Senior Services Help senior citizens keep warm this winter by

donating warm pajamas of various sizes, slippers and blankets.

Donations should be dropped off at 1700 Sunkist Ave. in Susanville by Dec. 18.

Lassen Senior Services will also accept food, firewood and cash donations.

A Turkey Trot/food drive will also be held Thanksgiving Day. Crossroads Ministries According to Cheri Farrell, executive director of Crossroads Ministries, donations are needed for Thanksgiving food baskets.

Items needed are vegetables, sweet potatoes, turkey, rolls, stuffing, potatoes, cranberry sauce and pumpkin pie.

At 2 p.m. Thanksgiving Day, Crossroads will be holding a Thanksgiving dinner.

At 6 p.m. Dec. 20, the nonprofit will be

Home for the Holidays 2015

donations during this holiday season holding its annual Christmas dinner at Monsignor Moran Hall.

Hosts and hostesses are needed who will decorate a table. Crossroads provides gifts, a Christmas stocking and dinner.

If people are interested in donating, Farrell said gifts are needed for infants through teenagers.

Salvation Army To ensure more tags are fulfilled on the Angel Giving Tree, Salvation Army will be setting up nine trees at multiple locations this year — Treats Natural Pet Marketplace, Starbucks on the corner, Customer Talk, Walmart, Walgreens, Billington Ace Hardware, Hair Hunters and the Lassen County Federal Credit Union.

Each tag represents a child’s wish list for Christmas and a family, or a person can select one and purchase the items listed.

There will also be a box placed inside Walmart where people can donate toys. Those items will also go to the Angel Tree.

Salvation Army will again distribute food boxes, including everything needed for a Christmas turkey dinner will all the trimmings.

According to Juanita Williams, Salvation Army coordinator, turkey donations are always welcome. Other items can be canned food.

Additionally, customers can purchase bags filled with food at Safeway with the items being donated to Salvation Army.

When December arrives so do the red kettles and bell ringers.

The red kettle program helps bring in money for the Salvation Army’s budget and bell ringers are needed.

Williams said groups held a competition last year to see who made the most money during their shifts.

According to Williams, students can also earn community service.

Money donated to the kettles stays right in the community.

For more information, call 257-0314.

Toys for Tots Lassen County Search and Rescue heads up the local Toys for Tots distribution each year.

People can donate new toys at collection sites set up at local businesses around the county, or look for collection days or at the Dec. 5 Magical Country Christmas Uptown.

Toys for Tots provides gifts for both young children and teenagers, a group that often needs more items.

Monetary donations are also welcome as it is used to fill voids in different age groups.

Toys will be distributed on Dec. 19. For more information, call 260-1222.

NOV. 27 & 28 Join us for

GAME NIGHT Enjoy Our Traditional

THANKSGIVING DAY FEAST Starting at 11:00am While supplies last

900 Skyline Drive • Susanville

252-1100

You must be accompanied by an adult 21 years of age or older with a valid I.D. to enter the casino.

Home for the Holidays 2015

&

DJ NIGHT

Now Booking HOLIDAY PARTIES Assorted Meeting Rooms and Tent For Small to Large Groups.

Rooms available with sound equipment, big screen, projector, video conferencing.

Seating options: banquet, conference, classroom.

The banquet menus feature a variety of food to choose from and are available on our website.

To Book Your Next Banquet or Holiday Party, contact Cynthia at

530-252-1100 ext. 146

Out Of Town Guests: Book One of Our Luxury Rooms!

• Visit us online at www.diamondmountaincasino.com •

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Lassen Rural Bus Serving you with pride, County-wide!

West County Service to Westwood and Chester, Monday-Saturday

Lassen Rural Bus stops at Coppervale*

East County Service to Herlong, Monday-Friday Service to Susanville Ranch Park and Bizz Johnson Trail, Monday-Saturday

Call

252-RIDE (7433)

Whether you’re a hunter, shooter, collector or plinker, as firearm enthusiasts it’s natural for us to want to share our enjoyment and enthusiasm of firearms with others. What better way to share that with a close friend, family member or a relative than gifting a firearm for the holidays?

Most of us are familiar with the movie “A Christmas Story” where young Ralphie spends days on end begging and pleading with his parents and Santa that he really wants an official Red Ryder carbine-action 200-shot range model air rifle. Ralphie is constantly met with skepticism and the famous line, “You’ll shoot your eye out.” But by the end of the movie, Ralphie’s father ultimately gets him the air rifle, and in a turn of events, he comes close to shooting his eye out, breaking his glasses after shooting and hitting a big metal sign which ricocheted the BB. In the end, he and his family wind up eating Christmas dinner at a Chinese restaurant.

Although things didn’t turn out the way he and his family would have liked, many people of all ages can relate to Ralphie’s longing to receive his first gun under the Christmas tree. Christmas is a time when many children receive their first gun and many adults continue to add to their collection.

Unwrapping their first gun can be exciting and something they’ll remember forever, but there comes great responsibility and things to consider when purchasing a gun for your child.

Safety is first and foremost important. There should always be an adult present and supervising a child’s shooting. Children should be taught how to safely and appropriately handle a firearm before shooting, and strict safety rules should be enforced.

As a child I can remember the seriousness in my father’s face when he was teaching me about firearm safety. My father was in the military and came from a family that hunted and fished, so this was a tradition handed down from father to son. My father taught me firearms were not toys and that I was to never touch one unless he

Celebrate Christmas Sunday, December 6th Christmas Program “Journey to Bethlehem” 10:45 a.m.

Thursday, December 24th Christmas Eve Service 7:00 p.m.

Family Candlelight Service

Susanville United Methodist Church 70 S. Lassen Street 257-5893

*When open.

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Home for the Holidays 2015

was there and I had permission.

There were many other things he taught me about firearms such as properly storing them and ammunition, never putting your finger on the trigger unless you intended to shoot, always pointing the firearm in a safe direction, wearing eye and ear protection, etc. At a young age I respected and looked up to my father — making sure to follow the rules as to not disappoint him. Needless to say these are things that I carry with me to this day and plan to pass down to my children.

When the time comes, picking the right firearm may be challenging and plays a big part in the child’s shooting experience. When purchasing a gun, one of the main things to consider is size and fit. If the firearm is too big, bulky and uncomfortable this can lead to a negative experience.

When teaching youngsters, a pellet or BB gun such as the Red Ryder is perfect for first timers. This allows the child to learn the ins and outs of firearm safety before moving on to something such as a .22 rifle or a .410 shotgun.

Once they have graduated from the BB or pellet gun, a .22 rifle is the next best step.

They are usually smaller in size, easy to aim, use and have really low recoil. If you’re going to purchase a shotgun for your child a .410 or a 20-gauge are the most popular choices for youngsters. Again going to the lowest level of recoil and are also usually smaller in size.

But the best way is to borrow these shotguns first to see how well the child does with either one. A shotgun can be a little more challenging than a BB gun or a .22 rifle. You don’t aim a shotgun when shooting trap, skeet or hunting — you use motion and follow-through while pointing at your target.

Overall you want the child to have a safe and positive experience while shooting. Keep targets close when teaching the basics of shooting, that way you can provide a sense of confidence and success. Watch your child to see how they are feeling while shooting. Just like adults, children won’t do as well if they are exhausted and not fully committed, and this can lead to a negative experience. End the shooting session on a positive note so the child will be confident and looking forward to the next time you go shooting.

If you have someone other than a child who is a gun-lover in your life and are not sure about what to get them, simply ask them to write down a wish list. They can also go online and create a wish list. Most outdoorsman stores that sell firearms, ammunition and other accessories have online wish lists. This will help make sure you get them the gift they really want.

If for some reason you can’t get a wish list out of them, an easy fallback plan is a gift card. Gift cards are a safe bet and allow your firearms enthusiast the freedom to choose what they want. We have two local gun stores in Susanville — J&K Guns and Stuff and Honey Lake Firearms. Honey Lake Firearms offers gift cards and at J&K you can put store credit under that special someone’s name.

No matter for whom you buy this holiday season, make sure safety comes first; do your research and utilize your local resources available. If you follow these steps there’s no doubt you’ll enjoy a wonderful Christmas, and you’ll love the expression on your special someone’s face when they get that special gift.

For more information on firearm safety, visit www.training.nra.org.

CRAFT FAIR NOV. 27TH & 28TH Handmade crafts s aprons, knitted and crocheted items, jewelry s holiday gifts

s SAVE THE DATE: CRAFT FAIR DEC. 5TH, ALSO! s UNIQUE, ONE-OF-A-KIND TREASURES!

GIFT BOUTIQUE & ANTIQUES 1430 MAIN STREET • SUSANVILLE M o n d a y - S a t u r d a y, 1 1 a m - 5 p m

Community Church

Ash St./Hwy. 139 to Spring Ridge (left) to Numa Rd.

Why not celebrate this special time of year with us?

SUNDAY 8:00am, 9:30am & 11:00am CHRISTMAS EVE WORSHIP SERVICES 4:00pm & 6:00pm

Home for the Holidays 2015

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CHESTER

SUSANVILLE

Susanville United Methodist Church

Mt. Lassen Community Church

Calvary Chapel of Susanville

200 Main Street, meeting in the Mt. Lassen Theatre. www.mtlassencommunitychurch.org Christmas Eve services • 4 p.m. and 6 p.m.

450 Richmond Road • 257-4833 Candlelight Christmas Eve service • 7 p.m.

New Year’s Eve • 7 p.m. Prophecy update

70 S. Lassen St. • 257-5893 Christmas Program • 10:45 a.m. Dec. 6 Christmas Eve Candlelight Service • 7 p.m.

St. Andrew’s Church

1400 Numa St., • 257-2924 Candlelight Christmas Eve services: 4 p.m. and 6 p.m.

174 Melissa St., Chester • 596-3343 www.standrewsalmanor.org Lessons and Carols • 5 p.m., Dec. 24 Midnight Mass • 11 p.m., Dec. 24, 2014 Christ’s Mass • Noon, Dec. 25

STANDISH

Honey Lake Valley Assembly 464-905 Standish-Buntingville Rd. • 253-3222 Christmas Eve service • 6 p.m.

LAKE ALMANOR

Community Church

WESTWOOD

Calvary Chapel of Westwood

Good Shepherd Episcopal Church

315 Ash St. • 256-3309 Christmas Season service • 10 a.m., Dec. 20 Christmas Eve candlelight service • 7 p.m.

New Year’s Eve Communion Service • 7 p.m.

1155 North St. • 257-6002 Christmas Eve services • Dec. 24: Carols at 7 p.m., worship service at 7:30 p.m.

First Baptist Church

Susanville Assembly of God Church 473-465 Richmond Road North • 257-5000 Holiday Craft Boutique, Dec. 5 • 4-8 p.m.

Holiday Craft Boutique, Dec. 6 • 9 a.m.-3 p.m.

Chrismas Musical • 10 am to 6 pm, Dec. 21 Candlelight Christmas Eve service • 6 p.m.

Fourth and Delwood St. • 213-3458 Hanging of the Green service • 5 p.m., Nov. 29 Christmas Eve service • 6 p.m.

Lake Almanor Community Church 2610 Hwy A-13 • 596-3683 www.lacconline.org Christmas Eve service • 5:30 p.m

This listing includes the churches we were able to contact regarding their holiday services. There are many more churches in Lassen and Plumas counties. For a complete list, go to www.lassennews.com, www.plumasnews.com or pick up a copy of the Lassen County Visitors Guide or Plumas County Visitors Guide.

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Home for the Holidays 2015

If you like to ski or snowboard, then Coppervale Ski Hill is the place to go.

Conveniently located between Susanville and Westwood, Coppervale offers a variety of options for those who ski, snowboard, telemark ski and cross-country ski.

Like most years, Coppervale is offering lessons through Lassen Community College.

Classes are $10-15 for eight classes and you also get a punch card for $120, which allows you eight lift tickets for $15 each.

“The punch cards are available to anyone, not just those in classes,” Coppervale Ski

Home for the Holidays 2015

Hill’s manager Norm Wilson said.

Once two or three feet of snow falls, the hill will be open from 1 to 4:30 p.m. Tuesday through Thursday; and from 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. on weekends.

Daily lift tickets are $25 on weekends and $20 during the week.

You can purchase a season pass for $75 if you are a student, $150 for an adult and $350 for a whole family, no matter the size.

The last few years with the dry winters, Coppervale has only been open on a limited basis.

“I always pray for snow but you never know what’s going to happen. All we need is a couple feet and we can make it happen,” said Wilson.

Community service classes are offered for youth ages 18 and younger. For more information about the community service classes, contact Wilson at Coppervale.

For more information or current conditions, call the ski phone at 257-9965.

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Tree-lighting ceremony offers opportunity to remember loved ones Holidays can be an especially difficult time of year for those who have lost a loved one, and one important aspect of the Honey Lake Hospice’s Tree Lighting Ceremony is that it helps people heal from their loss and deal with the acceptance of death and bereavement.

The event — held this year at 6:30 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 21 at Eagle Lake Village — coincides with National Hospice and Palliative Care Month celebrated all across the United States to acknowledge the special caring services hospices provide.

In order to aid in that grieving process or in the celebration of a life, the evening gives participants an opportunity to remember, recognize or honor their loved ones who have passed on.

Andria Cuypers, coordinator for the Honey Lake Hospice, said there’s no way to put a timeline on grief.

The event is actually part of the grieving process, Cuypers said, and many people purchase a dove for someone who died 20 or 30 years ago. For others, the process is still very fresh.

She said the tree-lighting ceremony always follows the same pattern year after year.

Participants gather in the foyer at Eagle Lake Village, and Debra Sokol sings, “I Will Light A Candle For You.” Candles are passed out, and the participants move outside near the entrance to Eagle Lake Village.

Doves — inscribed with the name of a loved one who has passed on — are sold for a small fee at Plumas Bank, Margie’s Book Nook or at the event.

The candles are lit, the names on the doves are read one by one, and the United Methodist Church Handbell Choir, directed by Dennis Roberts, performs.

Many release tears of joy or grief when their loved one’s name is read aloud and the sound of a single bell rings out solemnly across the darkness — whether

they’re there to celebrate a life or to try and cope with their own personal loss.

But they feel an honest and great comfort knowing others share the emotion of the moment with everyone who has gathered to remember their loved ones, too. No one should feel alone.

The ceremony helps participants see their personal joys or sorrows are really universal emotions felt by all humanity.

Then the mood brightens considerably when the Christmas tree with dove ornaments (each inscribed with the name of a loved one) is lit. Participants flock to the tree to find their loved one’s dove and then move back inside for refreshments.

For more information, call Honey Lake Hospice at 257-3137.

Tree-lighting in Chester A similar ceremony, presented by Sierra Hospice, will be held at 6 p.m.

Saturday, Nov. 21 at 150 Brentwood Drive — near the Seneca Hospital longcare unit — in Chester. As in Susanville, the names of departed loved ones are written on ornaments that are then hung on a Christmas tree.

For more information, call 258-3412.

Let me not pray to be sheltered from dangers but to be fearless in facing them. Let me not beg for the stilling of my pain, but for the heart to conquer it.

— Rabindranath Tagore

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Home for the Holidays 2015

Wish List Granted

Save on all the toys, books and games they’re wishing for this Christmas!

50 GIFTS UNDER $10

50 GIFTS UNDER $20

Margie’s

BOOKS, CALENDARS, GAMES & MORE!

530•257•2392

BOOK NOOK

722 Main Street Susanville Lassen Humane Society is NOW TAKING ORDERS for

Handmade

CHRISTMAS WREATHS

$35 and up • approx. 16”-20” Made from local pine, fir, cedar and juniper.

Leave a message at 257-4555

~The Gift That Keeps On Giving~ Make a donation to the Lassen Humane Society in lieu of giving a gift and we’ll mail a Holiday Card to the recipient. Call us for details.

Cindy DeMasi (530) 260-1759 CA Lic. #01261435

Wishing you and your family a blessed holiday season.

Peter M. Talia, Broker • CalBRE #0727442

Home for the Holidays 2015

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Symphony performs ‘A Very Classical Christmas’ Classical music lovers are sure to enjoy this season’s offering from the Susanville Symphony Society — “A Very Classical Christmas” — which performs at 7 p.m. Friday, Dec. 18 and 2:30 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 20 at the Susanville Assembly of God Church, 473-465 Richmond Road.

Ben Wade, the symphony’s conductor and artistic director, said this year’s shows will be held the weekend before Christmas so those who have relatives coming into town can enjoy the symphony’s most popular show of the

year together as a family.

Wade said the symphony’s Christmas concert has become one of Susanville’s holiday traditions. But don’t be too scared of the very classical moniker because Wade said the show also will feature some lighter moments.

Highlights of this year’s show include, the “Christmas Eve Suite,” by Nikolay Rimsky-Korsakov; the “Christmas Concerto,” by Arcangelo Corelli; “Concerto for Two Trumpets in C Major,” by Antonio Vivaldi, (featuring Paul Lenz and Wade on trumpet and directed by Ray Craig);

“The 12 Days of Christmas,” arranged by Wade, and the “Fantasía para un gentilhombre,” by Joaquin Rodrigo, a concerto for guitar and orchestra, featuring Thomas Braun on guitar.

Wade said this year’s concert is actually the first of a two-part series that will conclude with a performance of “The Messiah” next year.

Wade said the symphony will need to attract “a big base of singers” for “The Messiah,” which will feature Dennis Roberts in the role of conductor.

Dreaming of a Pain-Free Christmas?

Susanville Chiropractic Clinic Holiday Health Offer Cervical Spine X-ray and Exam . . . . . . . . . .

Call for your appointment

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25 257-7751

$

Exp. 12/31/15

Home for the Holidays 2015

Community Choral Christmas Carousal The Susanville Choral Society is once again hosting its Community Choral Christmas Carousal from 3 to 5 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 5 at Artisan Coffee in Janesville .

“Imagine a good old-fashioned neighborhood Christmas party complete with seasonal goodies, no-host coffee barista services, and a community sing-along led by the area’s premier choral group, the Susanville Choral Society, and you have an idea of what the Community Choral Christmas Carousal is all about,” said Liudmila Mullin, director of the Susanville Choral Society.

“We are keeping our fingers crossed and hoping that Mr. and Mrs. Claus will be able to join the party again,” Mullin said. “Last year’s event was a wonderful success and the Claus family really added to the pageantry of the party.”

According to Mullin, the Community Choral Christmas Carousal is open to all people of all ages, and it’s a free event. She said the Choral Society hopes “carousalers” will throw some money into the group’s donation pot to help with production costs for the 2015 performance season.

Artisan Coffee is located on Church Street in Janesville just off of Highway 395. For more information, call the Susanville Choral Society at 251-6738 or send an email to susanvillesingers@yahoo.com, or follow the Choral Society on Facebook.

Home for the Holidays 2015

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Susanville City Kickettes’ Christmas Extraordinaire highlights the season Ten of Susanville’s finest dancers make up the Susanville City Kickettes, and they’re high-kicking performance is always one of the highlights of the Christmas season.

This year’s Christmas Extraordinaire Show performs at 7 p.m. Dec. 4 and Dec. 5 at the Veterans Memorial Hall.

The Susanville City Kickettes — Ashleigh Adair, Courtney Beckman, Luriah Hinshaw, Angel Hammon, Makinzie Wheeler, Carlene Simpson, Katie Kennedy, Megan MacKay, Hailey Moore and Jessica Nobles — will perform 10 precision dance numbers, transforming themselves into dolls, toy soldiers, Santas, roaring 20s dancers and, of course, your favorite classical Christmas characters.

JandJ, the home studio for the nonprofit Kickettes, currently has 170 students, some as young as 18 months of age, and most of them will perform in the Kickettes’ Christmas Extraordinaire.

The production’s beloved numbers include “We Need a Little Christmas,” choreographed by Jessica Speiker, (adapted through the years), a roaring 1920s number, “Gatsby,” choreographed by Jessica Wade, and of course, the “Toy Soldiers,” also choreographed by Wade.

And yes, the show includes a Nutcracker excerpt, “Santa’s Workshop,” a tribute to our troops and a live nativity scene complete with live animals.

Along with their dance classes, rehearsals and show preparedness, the Kickettes also make time to serve as community service leaders in Lassen County.

They teach dance to McKinley Elementary School students as part of the after-school program, and you also can catch them at the 4-H W.H.Y. Conference, numerous shows and community events such as Plumas Bank’s Birthday Celebration and ringing the Salvation Army bell.

Don’t miss the Christmas Extraordinaire show if you’re looking for a little holiday cheer.

For more information, call 260-1575.

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Girls dance in the Candy Cane Hoops during “The Nutcracker Ballet.”

Youngsters dance as gingerbread cookies in one of the final performances from the “Land of Sweets.”

‘Nutcracker’ features local dancers, professionals from Reno This December, Susanville’s Best of Broadway and the Reno Dance Company will once again present three performances of “The Nutcracker Ballet,” one of the best known and most loved holiday traditions in the world.

The groups present three performances — at 3 and 7 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 12 and at 2 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 13 at the Veterans Memorial Hall in Susanville.

It’s a special treat for young dancers and their families as the youngsters have an opportunity to perform with a professional dance troupe. How big a deal is this? Well, consider — the Reno Dance Company has been honored

as Reno’s best dance company in 2014 and 2015.

Best of Broadway’s Lisa Bernard said last year’s performance included 30 professional dancers and 75 local dancers.

“Lesa Dusich, the artistic director of the Reno Dance Company makes our local dancers look like pros,” Bernard said. “It’s amazing, and really fun to watch.”

The Susanville production is part of the Reno Dance Company’s outreach program as they present several similar shows in smaller communities throughout the greater Reno area each year.

Bernard said the Best of Broadway staff will provide lighting and sound for the production and be responsible for all the behind-the-scene arrangements.

“This is wonderful experience for our kids,” Bernard said. “They can put they’ve participated in a professional dance production on their resumes. It’s great to have a professional dance company come to Susanville and then to see our local cuties up there on stage dancing along side the professional dancers.”

Call (775) 2194 for more information or go to www.renodancecompany.com or email lesavee@hotmail.com.

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Christmas in the Mountains

Lighted floats are part of the traditional Westwood Chamber kickoff of the holiday season during Christmas in the Mountains.

Westwood celebrates the holidays with a multitude of events In Westwood many special events are scheduled to celebrate the holidays. The season kicks off with the arrival of Santa Claus on Friday, Dec. 4, as part of Christmas in the Mountains sponsored by the Westwood Area Chamber of Commerce.

Santa and Mrs. Claus will ride in the Westwood Light Parade leaving Westwood Park at 6 p.m. and traveling down Third Street to the community center. The couple will meet with children at the Westwood Community Center to learn what they want for Christmas.

Families are served complimentary hot chocolate and cookies, and they can have a photo taken.

Weather permitting there will be food and craft vendors set up on the grounds of the Westwood Community Center. For more information, call the Westwood Chamber at 2562456.

The Chimney Fund hosts a costume ball from 8 p.m. to 2 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 5, at the Double G Ironhorse Saloon called “Charity Beyond the Mask Charity Ball.” People who purchase presale tickets receive a souvenir glass, Chimney Fund membership for 2016 and an entry into the grand prize drawing for a $250 Walmart gift certificate. The ball will feature a photo booth, appetizers, music by DJ Outlaw and a multitude of raffle prizes.

All proceeds go to charity. For more information, call Mary Gow at 339-6878; Elizabeth Allen at 251-3928; or Janet Stevens at 260-2951.

The nonprofit Chimney Fund was founded on Christmas Eve in 1992 when several Westwood residents gathered at the old chimney on Highway 36. It is now an established charitable organization best known for the holiday dinners distributed at Thanksgiving and Christmas to families in need.

Local churches will commemorate the birth of Jesus in several ways.

The First Baptist Church of Westwood at Fourth and Delwood streets is having a Hanging of the Green Service at 5 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 29. This service will entail singing Christmas carols and putting the final touches on church decorations. It will conclude with a potluck dinner.

Sunday Dec. 20, children who participate in The Good Shepherd Club at the First Baptist Church will perform a play at 5 p.m., which depicts the nativity story. Afterward there will be a birthday party for Jesus that includes a spaghetti dinner and birthday cake.

At 6 p.m. Christmas Eve, Thursday, Dec. 24, the First Baptist Church will hold a

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candlelight service of worship and praise for Jesus Christ.

Calvary Chapel Westwood, located at 313 Ash St., will hold a Christmas Season Service at 10 a.m. Sunday, Dec. 20, with a festive holiday buffet after the service.

Christmas Eve, Thursday, Dec. 24, a candle light service will feature special music by the Calvary Chapel Worship Team. A New Year’s Eve communion service will take place at 7 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 31.

For more information, call 256-3309.

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Brown steak, chopped onion, butter and garlic salt in cast iron skillet. Put mixture in a medium sauce pan and add cream of mushroom soup, cream of chicken soup and flour. Mix and simmer for 1 to 1-1/2 hours (or in crock pot on low for 8 hours).

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Heat through, but don’t boil.

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Home for the Holidays 2015

A light parade draws a multitude of bright floats with some featuring Santa.

Children brave the cold to ride a float in the Light Parade that is part of Christmas in the Mountains.

Westwood Chamber volunteers prepare refreshments for families waiting to meet with Santa and Mrs. Claus during Christmas in the Mountains.

Santa and Mrs. Claus prepare to meet with children during Christmas in the Mountains, a holiday event scheduled for Friday, Dec. 4 in Westwood.

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Home for the Holidays 2015

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Community tree lightings are a mainstay tradition in a lot of small towns. Many of the townspeople will brave the brisk temperatures to enjoy the fellowship of friends and the beauty of the moment.

There is nothing quite like the ‘Holiday Season’ in a small town.

Homes being decorated, merchants sharing holiday cheer and the community coming together to celebrate one of the most joyous times of the year.

This is exactly what the Chester/Lake Almanor community has in mind as it prepares for an exciting holiday time.

Here are several opportunities to brighten your holidays.

Sierra Hospice Tree Lighting The 29th annual Hospice Tree Lighting will take place

at 6 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 21.

The new location for the event will be 150 Brentwood Drive, right next to Seneca Hospital long-term care entrance.

This event is meant to phase out the National Hospice Month and welcome in the holiday season.

All community members are invited to attend and bring an ornament for the tree symbolizing the memory of a lost loved one or friend.

Chester Merchants’ Open House The Friday after Thanksgiving, Nov. 27, is the date of the always-anticipated Chester Merchants Open House.

The merchants are open from 5 to 9 p.m. for a festive

evening of holiday shopping, refreshments, drawings, prizes and holiday discounts.

During their travels everyone can enjoy music, caroling and a light parade, all while looking for Santa who always makes an appearance.

Community Chorus And Bells If you are a music lover you will definitely want to save the dates of 7 p.m. Dec. 5 and 4 p.m. Dec. 6.

The Community United Methodist Church in Chester is the location for the 2015 Winter Concert by the Chester Community Chorus and Lake Almanor Hand Bell Ensemble.

Friday, November 27, 5-9pm Come One ~ Come All for a festive evening of holiday shopping and fun!

Music/Caroling Light Parade • Santa Refreshments, Drawings Prizes and Discounts from participating merchants.

See You There!

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Chester/Lake Almanor hosts holiday happenings This year’s concerts, directed by Jane Brown, will feature traditional Christmas music from the 1930s and 1940s along with other selected favorites.

The wonderful music and donations from the community have kept this event a mainstay of the holiday season in Chester for more than 25 years.

Santa Book Signing For the last 11 years Santa has set aside the second Friday of December to visit Books and Beyond at 140 Main St. in Chester to meet with local

children, listen to their wishes and sign their favorite Christmas book.

This year Santa will be on hand Dec. 11 from 4 to 6 p.m., to, of course, check his list and to share his cookies and hot cocoa.

If you don’t have a favorite book on hand Books and Beyond has a wide selection from which you could purchase one for yourself or as a gift.

What better way to brighten your holiday season than to gather with family, friends and fellow community members at all the festivities in Chester?

If you’d like your church or community event to be listed in next year’s Home for the Holidays magazine, submit your information in writing in the form of a letter or email. You can drop it by your local newspaper office, or email it to: swilliams@lassennews.com, jatkinson@lassennews.com, dmcdonald@plumasnews or cmcintire@plumasnews.com.

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Tamales for Christmas!

Friday, December 11th

4:00 - 6:00pm

(530) 258-2150

140 Main Street ~ Old Town Chester

My 10 dozen are ready to go. Six dozen roasted green chile tamales and four dozen traditional pork ones. I used to make more of the traditional pork for the meat eaters, but meat eaters always smell the green chile ones and go for them and that makes the vegetarians scrounge for something else.

I learned my lesson. So now I make more of the green chile ones so no one is alienated with the exception of those who don’t like Mexican food on Christmas.

Many Americans think this is a big Mexican tradition. For some I suppose it is.

It isn’t for my family. We started being tamale Mexicans about 13 years ago when we moved to Plumas County.

Before that, we bought them from tamale ladies. Most people have a tamale lady. Mine stood in front of the 24th Street Bart Station in San Francisco. My mother’s walked up and down her street with a Coleman cooler that looked too big for her

to lift on her head. My husband had one that pushed a cart in San Pedro. It was our tradition to buy them not make them.

When my mom and I moved to Greenville, where Mexican-Americans number in only double digits, we knew we’d have to learn. Before we made our own tamales, we just had confused Christmas meals of various dishes that none of us in our family particularly liked. My mother hates turkey. I hate ham. My stepmother prefers game hens and duck for such occasions, which makes us the rest of us recoil in horror.

Thankfully a good friend’s mother was willing to show us how it was done, so now we make our own.

The tamale (or tamal) is the oldest dish in North America and traces its roots to the pre-Colombian era. A version of the tamale can be found as far south as Guatemala and as far north as the American Southwest — anywhere maize grew, there seems to

have been a version. It was meant to be a portable food that one could pack on a trip or a hunt.

They could be given away as gifts — a tradition that holds true to this day.

The American tamale is usually wrapped in cornhusk. Further south into Mexico toward Oaxaca and Chiapas they are often wrapped in banana leaves.

More than 10 years of tamale making hasn’t made me an expert but I can share some advice.

Here are some things I can tell you: The trick is in the masa. You can make it from scratch and be very generous with the lard and try not to think about the tamale nickname — the lard bar. The better and more traditional the grease aspect (pork lard) the more it will hold together. You can make them vegan and vegetarian with vegetable broth but the consistency will not

Susanville Auto to host free photos with Santa and coloring contest Getting children into the holiday spirit can be done in many ways. One of those ways can be entering into Susanville Auto’s holiday coloring contest. The coloring contest is for children ages 3 to 10. The page to be colored can be found in the Lassen County Times and will be a Christmas-themed picture with the registration form for the contest on the bottom of the page. The picture page will be published in the Dec. 1 and Dec. 8 issues of the Lassen County Times.

Colored or decorated pages must be turned in by Friday, Dec. 11. Three lucky winners will be chosen and awarded brand new bicycles on Saturday, Dec. 12 at Susanville Auto Center. All pages will be put up and displayed on the show room glass at

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Susanville Auto Center for everyone to see and enjoy.

On the same day the contest winners are chosen, Santa will be present. There will be free hot chocolate and pictures with Santa. So parents, don’t let your children miss out on some yummy hot chocolate, pictures with Santa and the possibility of winning a new bike.

Home for the Holidays 2015

be the same. Some people try and find a happy medium and use chicken broth, which also works and makes them not as heavy.

Cheating is okay. I have been known to buy the preprepared masa from Mexican markets and WinCo. Never gossip while kneading the masa! It might be an old wive’s tale, but gossip and masa make for bad masa that never cooks solid.

Do not make it too thick otherwise you’ll use too much and it will be too much like dough. Don’t make it too wet or the insides will spill out. It takes diligence.

The trick is in three-day preparation. Give yourself the

Home for the Holidays 2015

time to make the insides before hand. You can find countless different recipes online for various fillings. You’ll also find all sorts of YouTube tutorials on how to assemble them.

If you’re making the green chile ones, don’t take all the chile seeds out. Leave a few in for flavor.

These seem to be the proper rules to perfection. In the mountains, because good green chile tamales are hard to come by, they are worth their weight in gold. I give them out instead of cookies. The jeweler gave me earrings in exchange. My neighbors gave me tins of tea. I got someone to plow my driveway after work one Christmas eve in exchange for a dozen.

It’s the same meal every year but since there’s nowhere else to get this simple meal, it has become our staple of December in the mountains.

Tamales steaming on the stove for two hours create an aroma in the house like no other, which makes me feel just a tad guilty for all those years with tamale ladies before I became my own.

When people come over and I have them steaming on the stove I know they think that I’m celebrating an ancient cultural tradition. I’m a bit of a fraud, but I smile and play along.

Tamales go better with friends. Host a tamale-making party and add margaritas. They freeze well and can keep

all winter.

Favorite insides The following are my three favorite fillings. If you have a crock pot (or three) you can make these the day or two before assembling.

Pork filling For one large crock pot, get the size pork butt you prefer and rub it with two cloves of garlic, as many dried chiles (I use black), black pepper, onions, oregano and dried cumin. Keep all those spices in the crock pot while it cooks overnight (smells heavenly).

When assembling the tamales, add black olives and green chives. Use the juice in the crock pot when you need moisture. Some also add raisins.

Green chile filling Roast green chiles the day before. Any will do, but I tend to use pasillas as they are easily found up here. Skin the chiles.

In a crock pot, combine green chile with zucchini, corn, onions, garlic and carrots. Let it cook overnight.

When assembling, add in shredded cheddar cheese, chives and black olives. Use the juice from the crock pot for moisture.

Dessert filling This one does not need cooking. Combine canned crushed pineapple in a bowl with pine nuts, raisins, vanilla and some cinnamon to taste.

When assembling, remember that dessert ones tend to be smaller and lighter. Use smaller corn husks for these and veggie or chicken broth as the moisture.

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Pets deserve a wonderful, safe holiday, too Fluffy, furry and loveable pets are amazing companions during the winter holidays. They help keep your lap warm as you sip coffee on a frosty morning, they, sometimes willingly, pose in adorable ways for the perfect picture and they give unconditional love.

However, it is always good to remember the dangers the holiday season can pose to dogs and cats.

With the influx of sugary treats lining the tables, dogs are prone to eating the attractive morsels; however, some foods, especially chocolate, can prove fatal for our beloved companions.

Additionally for cats, tinsel decorating the tree can pose a threat if eaten. The tinsel can get caught in the intestines, which often requires surgery to remove.

However, by planning ahead, pet-owners have the ability to ensure their cats and dogs are able to enjoy the holidays safely.

Here are some tips to ensure safety: Give your pets basic training. If your pets, especially dogs, know basic commands, like “sit,” “stay” and “drop it,” it will help when training them to stay away from things like the Christmas tree or decorative displays. If your dog does happen to grab something that’s off-limits, like an ornament, it will be easy to command him to “drop it,” and teach him such things are not his to play with. If the foundation of basic training is already in place, it will be easier to extend your pet’s training to apply to holiday decor, presents and food.

Be mindful of where you place breakable items. It’s best to place glass or breakable ornaments near the top of the tree where your pets won’t be able to reach them. That way, if your little fluffy does happen to get hold of or knock down a low-hanging ornament, he or she will be less likely to break it. Also, be careful when placing fragile decorations where pets can reach them. A wagging tail can easily knock something off a low-sitting coffee table, and cats are notorious for climbing and jumping on ledges. If you are going to place decorations on ledges your pets have access to, be sure to secure the decorations to the surface with strong tape or putty.

Know which things are poisonous to pets. Most people know chocolate is poisonous to dogs, but there are lots of other things that come into your home during the holiday season that may be hazardous to your pets’ health. Many additives used to prolong the life of a Christmas tree contain ingredients that will make pets sick, so it’s important to keep your furry friends away from the bottom of the tree if you use such additives. Poinsettia plants and mistletoe are also harmful to animals. Poinsettias irritate the mouth and can cause excessive salivation and vomiting, while mistletoe is poisonous and can result in death. By knowing what is harmful to your pets, you can ensure those things either don’t make it into your home this holiday season or that your pets stay far away from them.

Take extra precautions. There are several sprays available that, when used on something, will deter pets from chewing it. These products can be purchased at your local pet store and are an easy, effective way to keep your pets away from the Christmas tree, decorations and other off-limits holiday items.

There are also some preventative measures pet owners can take in the event their dog or cat does get into the tree or presents. You can tie your Christmas tree to an

36

eyehook in the ceiling to keep it secure, in case one of your pets does attempt to knock it over. Some pet owners also find it useful to put up baby gates around the Christmas tree when they leave the house to keep their pets away when they aren’t supervised.

When pet owners think ahead and take a few simple measures to pet-proof their homes for the holidays, it ensures the season will be fun and enjoyable for everyone

in the family, including pets. No one wants to come home to a toppled Christmas tree, broken ornaments, devoured food or a sick pet. Keeping your pets safe doesn’t require a lot of extra effort and can make the difference between a happy holiday and a disastrous one.

For more tips about how to pet-proof your home and keep your pets safe during the holiday season, call your veterinarian or visit your local pet supply store.

My favorite holiday memory, our Christmas tree ritual Many years ago as a child my family had a ritual for Christmas-tree preparation.

We lived on a 40-acre plot up near the Plumas National Forest surrounded by evergreen trees, so every winter about two weeks before Christmas, my father took my brother Edward and I on a long walk around the property looking for just the right one. I can’t remember ever being cold, hungry or tired or even how long it took, but I remember how much I enjoyed those hikes.

Once we found the right tree, not too big or “Your Mother will kill me,” Dad would say, he would cut it down and haul it (mostly by himself) up to the house, with Edward and me following behind. We’d take it in and Dad would set it in the stand while Mom stood back and let us know when it was in a good vertical position.

Dad, being the only tall one at the time, would string the lights and put up the star (when I was little he would lift me up to place it on top) so we wouldn’t jostle the bulbs by doing it afterward.

Then Dad would sit down to relax and watch as Mom, Edward and I decorated it. We had some beautiful bulbs with glitter that belonged to my parents, but most of the decorations were made by my brother and I each year.

We still have them all and bring some out each year.

Edward and I liked to hang the ornaments we had made ourselves. We made a game of picking out the ones we each made by year, then finding a perfect spot on the tree.

My Mom always took great care with her white

porcelain Hummel nativity set she had received from her parents. She always placed it on the bookcase on a white runner.

Dad occasionally hung the bigger outside lights along the eves in the front of the house, but we didn’t run them much as we were on solar power.

We even had crocheted stockings with our names on them that went near (not too near, though) the fireplace.

On Christmas morning there were always small goodies to find there. I usually received a couple tiny horse figurines to add to my collection, as horses were always a passion of mine. Each year it was a couple breeds I didn’t have and that made me as happy as the under-the-tree gifts.

The one gift I never received but always asked for was a horse. I was too young to understand at the time (I do now though as my horse, King, was a feed hog) but horses cost a lot more than dogs to take care of.

The presents were never many as we have a very limited extended family and my parents didn’t waste a whole lot of money on those kinds of gifts, but the tree was always beautiful and we were happy.

My parents eventually divorced and my Dad passed away a little more than two years ago. My brother and I moved out and started our own lives. But to this day, the smell of a fir tree brings tears to my eyes and wonderful memories to the forefront of my mind.

My recommendation for people, and not just during the holiday season, is to cherish the time with family and friends, the camaraderie; because in a decade or two you

won’t remember what gifts you received, however, you will remember the smile on the face of someone you loved when they wished you “Happy Holidays.”

— Jennifer Kempton

It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas...

Holiday Christmas Trees Festival of Lights on Main Street

Holiday Craft Fair

Every Friday & Saturday, 5 to 9pm Sundays, 5 to 8pm Beginning Saturday, December 5th through December 24th.

December 4th • 4 to 8pm December 5th • 10am to 3pm

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Drive through the festive and community-minded display of lights and enjoy the seasonal delights from local organizations.

See our display of community Christmas trees at the Fair Marquee on Main Street.

We are not responsible for any damage done by persons not believing in the Christmas Spirit.

...at the Lassen County Fairgrounds!

Home for the Holidays 2015

37

Rotary helps local youngsters have a Merry Christmas A cheerful band of Santa’s elves sing Christmas carols and read Christmas stories as everyone waits to hear the clatter of reindeer hooves on the roof, marking the arrival of jolly old St. Nick.

Jeff Chew, owner of the Pizza Factory restaurants in Susanville and Janesville, delivers boxes of different types of pizza for the hungry youngsters and their families at the Susanville Rotary Club’s annual Christmas Party.

All the children in the room rush to greet Santa when he finally arrives at the Rotary Club Christmas Party.

Boxes and stacks of presents — one for each youngster who attends the Rotary Christmas Party — wait to be distributed after dinner once Santa arrives.

Susanville’s Rotary Club wants to ensure every child in Susanville has a positive holiday experience when Christmas rolls around.

So each year as the holiday approaches, the club sponsors an invitation-only free Christmas party for local children selected by their teachers or their schools.

The Rotary Christmas Party features an all-you-can-eat pizza dinner, singing Christmas carols, reading Christmas stories and finally a very special visit by Santa himself and a few of his elves.

Every child who attends the party receives a present and a photograph with Santa.

Seeing these children with big smiles on their faces as Santa arrives and watching them enjoy the Christmas presents on their laps amid gobs of wrapping paper and ribbon can warm even the very Grinchiest of hearts.

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One by one by one, Rotarian Mike Kirack and Santa call out each child’s name so they can come up and get their Christmas present.

Home for the Holidays 2015

Wishing you and your family a happy, warm and safe holiday season.

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Susanville 40

Home for the Holidays 2015

Uptown Susanville becomes a ho-ho-holiday happy place Come join the holiday fun at the Lassen County Chamber of Commerce’s A Magical Country Christmas.

This family friendly community event will be held from 5 to 7 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 5 in Historic Uptown Susanville.

To enhance the Christmas spirit, the event features musical entertainment and dance numbers performed by students of J and J Performing Arts and House of Dance.

There will also be street vendors, Santa’s Grand Entry parade, a tree-lighting ceremony and fireworks.

Uptown merchants also stay open later allowing people to start, or finish Christmas shopping during the event.

Applications for the parade can be downloaded at www.lassencountychamber.com or by stopping by the chamber office at 75 N. Weatherlow St. For more information about the event, call the chamber at 257-4323.

Historic Uptown Susanville is transformed into a Christmas wonderland which culminates in Santa’s Grand Entry parade, lighting of the Christmas tree in front of the Elks Lodge and a fantastic fireworks display.

Our entire organization joins in wishing you Healthy Holidays and a prosperous New Year!

– From your friends at Northeastern Rural Health Clinics

Northeastern Rural Health Clinic 1850 Spring Ridge Drive, Susanville

530-251-5000

Dental Services available at Westwood Family Practice on Tuesdays and Thursdays.

Westwood Family Practice 209 Birch Street, Westwood Mon., Wed., Thurs., Fri., 8 a.m. - 5 p.m.

530-256-3152

URGENT CARE WALK-IN HOURS IN SUSANVILLE: Mon-Fri, 8am-7pm • Sat, 8am-1pm & 2pm-5pm Urgent Care, Women’s Health, Family Medicine, OB/GYN, Pediatrics, Family Dentistry, Health Education, WIC, Telemedicine Services Owen’s Pharmacy located in the Northeastern Clinic, Susanville, can mail your prescriptions to your home FREE! Call 252-4315 for details!

Sliding Scale • Medi-Cal • Medicare • Commercial Insurance • Family Pact • CMSP • We will sign you up for insurances if you qualify.

A service of Northeastern Rural Health Clinics

Home for the Holidays 2015

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Beautiful Indian Valley,

The Indian Valley Chamber of Commerce, businesses and residents look forward to seeing you this holiday season!

Jewelry & Craft Center

Shop our fabulous selection of jewelry. Browse rings, necklaces, earrings and more, at great prices!

You’ll find stunning fine jewelry, including gold, silver, diamonds and gemstones... there’s no holiday where a gift of jewelry isn’t appreciated.

Custom jewelry designs and jewelry repair.

What is Christmas without crafting?

Find everything you need for your Christmas and winter designs right here! Call for crafting class schedules.

417 Crescent St. ( Hwy. 89 ) , Greenville • 530-310-8423 or 530-284-7312

4352 Main St., Taylorsville • 530-284-1929

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530-284-7313

429 Crescent St. (Hwy 89) Greenville

Text EVERGREEN to 72727

www.evergreenmarket.biz

Home for the Holidays 2015

Plumas County, California The weather might be getting colder but that doesn’t stop the events in Indian Valley and beyond.

Here’s a short list of events to enjoy during the holiday season.

On Nov. 27 the annual Taylorsville Light Parade takes place. This day-after-Thanksgiving event features a chili dinner at the Taylorsville Tavern at 4 p.m. followed by the Light Parade at 5 p.m.

On Friday, Dec. 4, Main Street in Quincy hosts the annual Sparkle event complete with light parade, sidewalk vending, carolers and many businesses staying open later and in the spirit of the season.

On Dec. 5 and Dec. 6, hear the Chester Community Chorus perform their holiday concert at the Chester United Methodist Church.

Dramaworks at the West End Theatre in Quincy

Home for the Holidays 2015

hosts a 1940s Radio Play production of the Charles Dickens’ classic, “A Christmas Carol.” The play starts at 7 p.m. Thursday Dec. 10 through Dec. 12 and at 2 p.m. Dec. 13, and goes the following week at 7 p.m. Dec. 17 through Dec. 19 and at 2 p.m.

Dec. 20.

On Dec. 12, Roundhouse Council hosts a Christmas Bazaar at the Greenville Community Center with lots of handmade items made by local residents. This is a morning and afternoon event.

On Dec. 12, the Greenville Community Center hosts the annual Festival of Trees event. Local businesses and organizations decorate trees, children make seasonal crafts and gifts. Plus there’s an opportunity to visit and be photographed with Santa.

On Dec. 12, the local chapter of the American

Legion hosts their free holiday dinner.

On Dec. 16, hear the Greenville Junior Senior High School band play holiday favorites at the annual Christmas Concert in the Indian Valley Elementary School Cafeteria.

On Dec. 17, the Indian Valley Chamber of Commerce is hosting their Year End Mixer at the Town Hall.

Dec. 18 is National Ugly Sweater Day and Crescent Country and Sterling Sage challenge their customers and visitors to an ugly sweater contest. It takes place in both stores.

For more information about Indian Valley events, call the Indian Valley Chamber of Commerce office at 284-6633.

For more information about Quincy events at West End Theatre, call the theatre at 283-1956.

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Think Graeagle for Christmas shopping

$100

$100

CARD Y GIFT ENERG

Looking for the perfect holiday gift?

Consider giving the gift of energy!

Looking for a shopping experience without the city hustle and bustle? Need to find the perfect gift for that special someone on your list? Look no further than the town of Graeagle. The tiny red buildings all dressed for the holidays are the perfect place to spend the day.

Nestled along Highway 89 just off 70 in scenic Eastern Plumas County, the Graeagle area has more than 20 shops and restaurants to easily fill a day of holiday cheer.

The shops and restaurants are open every weekend through the holidays with some open on weekdays as well. Their website, www.graeaglemerchants.com has up-to-date information as well as the phone numbers of each business to better plan your visit.

Shoppers will find items like specialty foods and wine, furniture, handmade chocolates, clothing, shoes, art, stationery, toys, bicycle gear, gifts for kitchen, mountainthemed items, decorations and jewelry. Something for everyone on your shopping list.

The Norman Rockwell atmosphere isn’t just in the shops. Each of the cozy restaurants and café’s has its own charm. From gourmet meals to light lunch or coffee, there is an option to meet the needs and budget of every shopper.

Join the Graeagle Merchants for the Annual Graeagle Holiday Festival from 1 to 5 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 5. Take a horse-drawn trolley/sleigh ride and enjoy the strolling carolers. Bring the cameras and take your pictures with Santa and his friends. Gather around the bonfire while Santa lights the Christmas tree at 5 p.m. Be sure to enter in the raffle at participating shops. Winners will be announced after Tree Lighting. All events are free.

Shoppers are certain to enjoy a peaceful day while crossing many items of their holiday list while stroll along the Graeagle merchants.

Christmas tree cutting If you are looking to add some adventure to your day or filling a holiday tree-cutting tradition, Christmas tree permits must be purchased directly from local Forest Service offices. Permits are no longer available through local businesses.

A mail-in permit request option is available by sending the request to: Plumas National Forest, Christmas Tree Permit, 159 Lawrence St., Quincy, CA 95971. Make checks or money orders (no cash) payable to: USDA Forest Service. For more information on Christmas Tree Cutting: www.fs.usda.gov/main/plumas/passes-permits/forestproducts.

Lassen Municipal Utility District (LMUD) Energy Gift Cards make gift-giving easy!

Cards are available in three denominations: $25, $50 and $100. They may be purchased with cash, money order or a credit card at the LMUD office, 65 S. Roop St. in Susanville.

www.lmud.org

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Home for the Holidays 2015

Call us for all your Real Estate needs this holiday season

Larry Smith Broker-Owner 310-1592

Donna Smith Broker Associate 310-1593

(530) 257-2441 120 N. Fairfield Ave.

www.smithpropertiesinc.net

Home for the Holidays 2015

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bit of NewEve Year’s Eve A bit ofA New Year’s history history As the end of December approaches, people across America prepare to welcome the new year by watching a glowing ball drop, kissing someone at midnight, banging pots and pans or toasting with champagne. But did you ever wonder where all of these wacky New Year’s Eve traditions came from?

Using a dropping ball to tell time dates back to the 1800s, when port towns and cities began installing time balls so

sailors could use them to adjust their timepieces while at sea.

Using a telescope, the sailors would watch the time ball at the harbor and wait for it to drop to a specific time, then adjust their chronometers.

The practice of using a time ball to ring in the New Year, not surprisingly, began in New York City. Crowds traditionally gathered to hear church bells ringing at midnight until the New York Times decided to one-up the traditional bells with a fireworks display. However, when the New York Police Department outlawed fireworks, the New York Times’ chief electrician was tasked with finding a new, spectacular way to ring in the new year, and he hit a home run by combining an iron ball, 100 light bulbs, the repurposed mainmast of the battleship

Benelli • Kimber • Stoeger Springfield • Glock • Remington Smith & Wesson

Guns • Ammo • Optics

USS New Mexico and a pulley system.

Since then, the ball has undergone several redesigns and updates, however, the tradition of watching the lit-up ball drop in New York City each New Year’s Eve has remained the same. An estimated 1 million people watch the ball drop from Times Square, and another estimated 1 billion people from around the world watch on TV. So, why do we look for someone to kiss as the ball makes its descent?

According to the Montreal Gazette and USA Today, the tradition may date back to ancient Europe when people rang in the New Year with a kiss as a way to ward off evil spirits. Other popular folklore says the nature of your first encounter of the new year sets the tone for the next 365 days and symbolizes the strengthening of relationship ties for the year to come.

One of the more strange New Year’s Eve traditions you might witness or partake in is the banging of pots and pans at midnight. Although there is no definitive answer as to where this tradition came from, most sources agree the act of banging pots and pans serves one purpose — to scare away evil spirits. No one wants to kick off a brand new year with a bunch of evil spirits hanging around, so why not make a lot of noise to scare those wicked things away? This tradition also manifests itself in the form of blowing noisemakers, honking car horns, shooting guns into the air and ringing bells.

If you don’t want to go so far as to take your cookware into your front yard

and bang loudly on it for the entire neighborhood to hear, you can always celebrate in a more quiet way — by making a champagne toast.

The history of drinking champagne on New Year’s Eve dates all the way back to France in the Middle Ages. The bubbly beverage was created in the region of Champagne, France and became a popular drink in the French court. Seeing the drink’s growing popularity among French royals, merchants in Champagne were looking for a way to market the beverage to the rest of the world. At first, it was easy because of champagne’s popularity in high society.

However, the 19th century brought about the rise of industrialization, causing the distribution of wealth in society to change. Champagne marketers began catering to the newly rich merchant class, who aspired to consume the beverage like the royals were accustomed to. However, since many of these people could not afford to drink champagne all the time, they opted to reserve it for special occasions, such as weddings, religious holidays and, of course, New Year’s Eve. Champagne still has a reputation of luxury and fun today, which is why we continue to drink it on celebratory occasions.

Whether you choose to ring in the new year with a clinking glass of bubbly, a romantic kiss with your sweetheart, banging a frying pan, watching a glowing ball drop or all of the above, now you’ll know why the final night of the year is renowned for its glitzy fun and frivolity.

Stocking Stuffers Gift Certificates and more!

530-252-1199 600 Main St., Susanville 46

HOURS: MON 10-4 T-F 10-5:30 SAT 10-4

530-827-2717 • Groceries, Gifts & More!

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Register Now for Spring 2016

Spring Semester 2016 starts January 19, 2016 The quality education you need. Tuition you can afford.

Respected, Experienced Faculty Beautiful Campus & Facilities 65 Degree & Certificate Programs Online Courses

Continuing Education Career Counseling Financial Aid Child Care Center

Student Leadership Competitive Athletics Housing & Café Student Center

Open Registration in Admissions & Records on Campus

HOURS OF OPERATION Tuesday & Thursday 1:00 - 4:30 p.m. • Weekends 9:30 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. • Holidays 9:30 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.

Call the 24 hour Snow Phone at 530.257.9965 for current information.

SKI & SNOWBOARD SCHOOL Lessons in Alpine, Cross-Country, Nordic Skiing and Snowboarding. The $15 fee includes a 1-hour lesson and an introduction to the lifts. Contact the college at 530.257.6181 for information.

LIFT TICKETS - Ages 6 and younger, free with a paying adult. $20 weekdays • $25 weekends $20 half-days begin at 12:30 p.m. Prices subject to change without notice.

Ski Coppervale!

COMMUNITY SERVICE / SNOWBOARD CLASSES Skiing and Snowboarding Classes are available on an hourly basis; Good for children and beginners.

REGISTER FOR CLASSES ONLINE OR CALL 530.251.8808 www.lassencollege.edu NEED HELP? CALL US! *Help Desk hours Mon-Fri 8-3:30 WebAdvisor Help Desk* 530.251-8844 Financial Aid ..................530.251.8849 Registration....................530.251.8808

Bookstore .......................530.251.8881 Counseling .....................530.251.8842 Library ............................530.251.8830

Lassen College from here, you can go anywhere

www.lassencollege.edu

Home for the Holidays 2015

478-200 Hwy. 139 • Susanville, CA 96130

PUBLIC SAFETY TRAINING CENTER 814 Cottage Street Susanville

Home to Fire Technology, Allied Health, EMS and POST

Register & Pay ONLINE Order Textbooks ONLINE

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