June 22, 2010 — With the kids now out of school, and sunny weather finally here, it’s time to get out and enjoy all that Lassen County has to offer.   

A quick look through the paper reveals a number of no-cost and low-cost options, many suitable for the whole family. There are choices for every taste — from dance recitals  to the upcoming Lassen County Fair.

This weekend alone you can listen to music, cruise up Main Street and see pre-1980 cars,  participate in a poker run or join in a sock hop at the local bowling alley.  Truly, we will never understand those folks who say there’s nothing to do in Lassen County!

Can’t afford a vacation this year? Try a “staycation” right here in Lassen. Make this the year to explore another area of Lassen or neighboring Plumas County. We know there are places and events we’ve always wanted to check out, but haven’t gotten around to. Make this the summer to do so.    

Don’t know where to start? Stop by The Lassen County  Times office at 100 Grand Ave. and pick up free copies of our visitors and dining guides. There’s enough information in them to keep you exploring for many summers.   

If you do have a few greenbacks to spend, please spend them with area merchants. You don’t have to go overboard, but sandwiches for a picnic here, ice cream after a day of fishing there … it all adds up. Having a variety of unique businesses is part of what makes Lassen a great place to explore, whether you’re a tourist or a resident playing tourist.   

While you’re out enjoying the season’s pleasures, please take care. Officials are warning that streams and lakes are running cold and fast right now, so take the proper precautions, like wearing a personal flotation device and appropriate clothing. It is very easy to get hypothermic in cold water, a contributing factor in all too many drownings.   

Protect yourself from the sun, which is more intense at our higher altitudes. Stay hydrated — but not with alcohol. And please, please, please do not drink and drive. Be on the lookout for out-of-town drivers unfamiliar with our mountain roadways. Also be aware of our other neighbor — deer. Many have been spotted foraging near the roadsides.   

Hope to see you out and about. Here’s to a safe, profitable and fun summer for all of Lassen County.