By Terra Avilla At any organization there are people who shape things behind the scenes, and at Lassen Community College, there’s Colleen Baker. When I first crossed paths with Colleen, I was a bit nervous. She has that “let’s cut to the chase” vibe...

By Terra Avilla Middle kids really get the short end of the stick in family stories. If the oldest is blazing the trail and the youngest is ruling the kingdom (probably in pajamas), the middle child is what happens when parents think, “Yeah, let’s...

By Terra Avilla Those who live in Westwood know that the Blue Ox was always a goldmine. But Uptown Susanville leveling up with its own location? A big win for everyone! If you haven’t been there yet, this place isn’t just another coffee shop....

By Terra Avilla A few weeks ago, twelve-year-old Ayden Yerington was just another happy Richmond School kid. Playing sports and joking around with friends, until a stomachache led his mom, Tasia Harrison, to the doctor where everything changed. The diagnosis came quickly and is...

By Terra Avilla This week I wanted to talk about Kristina Shafer, Lassen County’s unofficial mortgage whisperer, math translator and all-around home-buying superhero. She does so much, except without a cape, and what would appear to me as a lot more actual paperwork. You see, when...

By Terra Avilla If fighting with people on the internet was a sport, I’d have my black belt by now. I could sweep the championship round with a snappy meme and one hand tied behind my back. But even I had to pause this week...

By Terra Avilla This week, I want to talk about something that’s has meant a lot to me over the years and always will, the annual Out of Darkness suicide prevention walk here in Lassen County. I was there when it all started, thinking...

By Terra Avilla "If anything happens to me, help me take care of my family." Those words aren’t born of fear… they’re born of love. For Lassen County native DJ Estacio, they are the quiet prayer behind every one of his decisions, every treatment, every...

By Terra Avilla On July 5th, the morning after the last firework faded from the sky, I found myself in my backyard, syrup still sticky on plates, our family in the backyard, still visiting from the holiday. Frankie was in the backyard with his...

By Terra Avilla When Carina Lopez and her husband, Professor George, moved to Susanville a few years ago, they didn’t just bring their knowledge and know-how, they brought a whole lot of heart. Together, they’ve turned their gym into more than just a place...

By Terra Avilla This week, “Why We Love This Place Wednesday” shines the spotlight on Oliver S. - or as we all know him, Ollie. Writing about kids like Ollie is a true joy, because they remind us just how much hope and promise...