SANTA'S SLEIGH DAYS   

It's a busy week in Susanville this week. We kick off Santa's Sleigh Days today. There are lots of reasons to be out shopping locally this week.  Be sure and take a look at the special insert in today's paper with the participating merchants ads and specials. It's a perfect way to start your holiday shopping season and Think Local First.    

It's also that time of year when we want to give back to our community. This week we will be collecting non-perishable food items, local gift certificates and or new toys.  If you want to help those in our community in need this holiday season, you can drop off any of your donated items to any of the participating merchants. All items will be donated to Lassen Family Services, Salvation Army (in Susanville) and Crossroads Ministries.

A MAGICAL COUNTRY CHRISTMAS   

This Saturday is the 5th annual Magical Country Christmas celebration in Susanville. The festivities begin at 3 p.m., with the Lassen County Arts Council Chocolate Festival (location to be announced). Beginning at 5 p.m. there will be music and dance performances, free photos with Santa (provided by A Better Shot Photography), a taco feed at the Elks Lodge, and of at 5:30 there will be Santa's Grand Entrance Parade. The tree at the top of Main Street will be lit at 6 p.m., followed by a fireworks display. Most of merchants in the Uptown area will be open late; it's a perfect time to start your holiday shopping!

NEW AT HI-LITES SALON   

Jennifer Blackburn, owner of Hi-Lites Salon welcomes Casie Kyle to her salon. Casie has been a licensed stylist for 18 years. She moved to Susanville about a year ago from Virginia. She specializes in cuts for the whole family. Weekend and evening appointments are available.

INSULATED GARAGE DOOR   

With the cold weather upon us, it's time to check to make sure your garage door is properly insulated. Jonathan Schrock, of Trails West Garage Doors informs us he has insulated garage doors, or you can insulate your current door. Give him a call for more information at 260-4900.

MAKING DREAMS COME TRUE   

For 25 years Edith Schwirian owner of E. Schwirian Jewelry has been making dreams come true with truly unique, one of a kind custom designed jewelry.  This holiday you can surprise someone you love with a treasure that will last a lifetime.  Schwirian tells us she will be participating in the Friends In Art show at the Artisan Coffee Shop on Dec. 4 and 5 in Janesville.  Her jewelry is also available at Picture Perfect in Susanville.

FRIENDS IN ART GIFT SHOW   

All your favorite local artisans will be participating in the annual Friends In Art show this weekend in Janesville.  You can get great deals on beautiful hand made creations that will put a smile on your loved one’s face.  Enjoy complimentary refreshments and music while you shop.

LAST CHANCE SIGN UPS   

The last day to sign up for Lassen Hoops is set for 9 a.m. to 12 p.m., on Saturday, Dec. 5 at the Lassen High School Gym There will also be a mandatory assessment on Saturday and all coaches and players need to attend.

2010 FIRE SEASON JOB FAIR   

Lassen Community College will be hosting a Firefighters Job Fair in the humanities building on Dec. 5.  The program will start at 8 a.m. and will feature representatives from all the fire agencies to give you information on how to apply for positions for the 2010 fire season.  If you’re considering a career as a firefighter, you won’t want to miss this event.

CONSERVE ENERGY WITH LED CHRISTMAS LIGHTS   

Lassen Municipal Utility District is happy to announce our Holiday Lighting Give-away. The programs goal is to increase awareness and promote the use of LED lights in LMUD’s service territory. Stop by the LMUD office, located at 65 South Roop St., between Dec. 1 and Dec. 24 to pick up a box containing a 60-light strand of multi-colored LED Christmas lights. The program is limited to 200 boxes of lights and lights will be distributed to LMUD customers on a first come, first served basis, limit one box per household. For complete program details contact LMUD’s Energy Services Specialist at 257-4174. To learn more about how LED’s can reduce your holiday energy usage log on to our Web site, lmud.org.

GET READY TO SHOP AT THE HOLIDAY CRAFT FAIR   

Have you been looking for that special gift? Have a long list of gifts you need to start checking off? No worries the 2009 Holiday Craft Fair is this weekend at the Lassen County Fair grounds were you will find great gift ideas and babysitting is available. You are sure to find yourself in the holiday spirit from 5 to 9 p.m., Friday and from 10 to 3 p.m., Saturday at the Lassen County Holiday Craft Fair.  

GENTLEY USED   

Nu 2 U is open in Uptown Susanville with gently used quality fashions, household items and more. Nu 2 U is a second hand store that benefits Mountain Circle Family Services Inc. programs for foster children. In addition to accepting local donations, they are also looking for volunteers who would like to make a difference.  They are located in the alley on North Lassen Street next to city hall.