by Shelley Bennett
The say that it takes a village to raise a child, but to raise the town’s Christmas tree it takes a village, the LCC baseball team, a local realtor, a contractor, an electrician, the chamber of commerce staff, city employees, and LMUD.
While speaking with the Chamber’s interim director David Teeter about the Magical Country Christmas coming up this weekend, he praised the people and groups on this list for taking time out of their busy schedules to help make the magic happen.
David said that every year it gets a little more difficult to put the tree together as the branches are smashed and broken and the lights and electrical wires are twisted up. Just like your own tree if you are a fan of the artificial variety.
He praised Jason Colbert Construction and Sierra Desert Properties for working tirelessly in the weeks leading up to the assembly to prepare the tree and make any repairs. With the tree showing its age after a decade of use, Jason and Melanie began the preparations earlier than usual.
David added that Russell Bates of Novah Electric was instrumental in making repairs so the Christmas tree will shine brightly on Saturday when the switch is flipped.
David also let me know of an exciting development the Chamber has in store for next year. Through PG&E Settlement Funds and partnership support from the City of Susanville, NST Engineering, and Hat Creek Construction, the Chamber will welcome a brand-new tree.
Starting next year, the new, taller tree will be displayed on a permanent stand – a fresh addition to our cherished holiday tradition.
There are many festivities around town to enjoy this weekend. Friday afternoon kicks off craft fairs at Lassen College (5:00-8:00), the Vets Hall (4:00-8:00) and the Susanville Assembly of God (4:00-7:00). They will all continue on Saturday morning into the early afternoon.
You can always find a unique gift or homemade treat at these events. Some of my favorite Christmas ornaments were made by local artists and crafters.
At 4:00 it’s time to head uptown for our Magical Country Christmas. The Chamber is hosting a Hot Toddy Walk. There will be lots of vendors and uptown merchants open with food, drinks, and other deals.
The Northern California Cancer Advocates will have hot chocolate in the building formerly occupied by Uptown Uniforms. They will share a space with a Pop-Up Shop featuring Stacey Barnetche’s Perfectly Imperfect bags, hats, and home décor and Ms Debbie 2 U’s custom tumblers and gifts. They open the doors at noon.
Our Lassen High Drill team will have glow jewelry, wands, and other lighted accessories for your little ones to wave during the Parade of Lights.
The dancers of J&J Performing Arts will not only lead the parade and provide entertainment, they will be selling hot chocolate and popcorn at the studio to help pay for competition costs.
About 6:00 the highly anticipated Parade of Lights will start. Narrated by local businessman Curtis Bortle, the parade will feature many clubs and community groups including Miss Lassen County and court. It’s always fun to see these festively-lit vehicles travel up Main Street.
The grand finale? Santa Claus will make his way to the Christmas Tree, the lights will be illuminated, and the evening will conclude with a spectacular fireworks display lighting up the Susanville sky behind the Elks Hall.
There are times when we think that there is nothing to do in our small town, but this weekend is not one of the them! This year’s Magical Country Christmas exemplifies the warmth and tradition of Susanville, bringing the community together in celebration.
We can’t wait to see you there next year to enjoy the brand-new tree and continue making lasting holiday memories!
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