A staple of the Lassen County Fair for nearly three decades will be missing from the fair this summer. The 140 Squad Club, an auxiliary of the Susanville office of the California Highway Patrol, announced Tuesday that its famous tri-tip booth will not return for the 2026 fair season.
In a formal statement released by the club, representatives expressed regret over the decision, which ends a 27-year tradition of service to the community. The booth has long been a primary fundraiser for the organization, with all proceeds used to purchase animals from local youth at the junior livestock auction.
According to the 140 Squad Club, the decision was driven by increasing financial pressures. “Following a very challenging and unsuccessful year in 2025, combined with significant increases in the cost of supplies, we were forced to carefully evaluate the sustainability of continuing our operation at the fair,” the club stated.
The club noted that as a vendor, they face numerous expenses including site fees, electricity, admission passes, and a 19% contribution of gross sales to the fair. Despite meetings with fair and county representatives to seek relief for nonprofit vendors, no agreement to reduce these costs was reached.
“We understand that our booth has become a tradition for many, and we sincerely apologize to everyone who looks forward to visiting us each year,” the club added.
While the tri-tip booth will be absent, the 140 Squad Club remains committed to supporting Lassen County’s youth. The organization confirmed it will continue to participate in the livestock auction and is currently selling raffle tickets—with 100% of proceeds going toward animal purchases—to help bridge the funding gap.
The club concluded by thanking the community for 27 years of support and noted they are actively exploring new fundraising opportunities for the future.
