2026 Best of Nor Cal Your Frontier Favorites
Winners
Beyond the Feed Bag: Modoc Farm Supply Anchors Alturas with New Services for 2026
In the rural community of Modoc County, a local business is proving that "farm supply" means much more than just hay and boots.
Modoc Farm Supply, recently crowned the Best Feed & Farm Supply in Northern California for the second year running, has officially unveiled its 2026 expansion plan, bringing critical logistical and storage services to this rural corner of the state.
As the town of Alturas grows and evolves, the familyowned mainstay is evolving with it, announcing two major partnerships that transform the shop into a comprehensive utility hub: a new U-Haul dealership and a partnership with Old Hickory Sheds.
For rural residents, securing a reliable moving truck or trailer often meant a long trek to a larger metro area. Recognizing this "transportation desert," Modoc Farm Supply has stepped in as an authorized
U-Haul Neighborhood Dealer.
The move is a strategic one, designed to support both local ranchers moving equipment and new residents joining the community. By hosting a fleet of trucks and trailers on-site at 226 W. 8th St., the store is saving neighbors hours of travel time and providing a localized point of contact for moving supplies and logistics.
In addition to keeping the community moving, Modoc Farm Supply is now helping them settle in. The 2026 arrival of Old Hickory Sheds at the Modoc Farm Supply addresses a growing need for highquality, durable outbuildings in a region known for its demanding weather.
This expansion marks a new chapter for a business that prides itself on being "rooted in community." While bigbox retailers often struggle to understand the specific needs of a ranching town, the team at Modoc Farm Supply uses their
multigenerational expertise to hand-pick services that offer the most value to their neighbors.
Even with the new trucks and sheds, the core of the business remains unchanged. Customers can still expect the same award-winning service, genuine expertise, and specialized inventory of organic feed, animal health supplies, and Montana jewelry that earned them their "Best of Northern California" title.
The community is invited to stop by the 8th Street location to view the new Hickory Shed lot or to inquire about U-Haul availability.
Location: 226 W. 8th St., Alturas, CA
Contact: 530-233-2816
Current Hours: Monday–Friday 9:00 AM – 5:30 PM | Saturday 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Thank You for Voting TEACH as Best Community Services!
We are incredibly honored and grateful to be voted as “Best Community Services.” This recognition means so much to all of us because it comes directly from the people we serve and work alongside every day.
Thank you to everyone who took the time to vote and support our organization. Your trust and encouragement remind us why we do this work. From providing housing support and emergency services to child care, senior meals, and victim services, our goal has always been to meet people where they are and help strengthen our community.
Carol Madison is approaching her 34th year with TEACH and has played a key role in growing the organization into what it is today. Her leadership and commitment have helped expand services and ensure that TEACH continues to respond to the needs of our community.
This award also belongs to our amazing staff and volunteers. Their dedication, compassion, and hard work are what make TEACH successful. Every day, they show up ready to make a difference.
We are proud to serve this community and are excited to keep building on this work together. Thank you again for your support—we couldn’t do it without you.
“For more than 40 years, TEACH has been built on the idea that communities thrive when people support one another,” said Carol Madison, Executive Director. “We are so thankful for this recognition and for the continued support from our community. It truly means everything to us.”
401 Us Highway 395 E Alturas, CA 96101-4200
Bus: 530-233-2022
www.angellake.net angel@angellake.net Insurance License #6000963 Angel Lake Ins and Fin Svc Inc
T.E.A.C.H., Inc., we are incredibly honored to be recognized by our community. To the thousands of individuals who voted for us—thank you. Your
Inspiring Hope. Enhancing Lives. One Smile at a Time.
At Crane Mountain Dental, our mission is simple: to inspire hope and improve lives by helping our patients achieve confident, healthy smiles that last a lifetime.
We believe that the best interest of the patient is the only interest to be considered. That’s why we emphasize open, authentic communication so your care is always aligned with your expectations, from your first visit through every stage of treatment.
Located in a small, close-knit community, we take pride in knowing our patients personally. Our welcoming, relaxed environment is designed to make you feel at home, and our team is committed to clinical excellence using leadingedge materials and techniques. Through lifelong learning and a passion for great dentistry, we strive to bring meaning to our work and transformation to your health.
Thank You, From All of Us
We are deeply honored and grateful to our amazing community for voting for us. Your support means the world to our entire team, and it reminds us every day why we do what we do. Thank you for trusting us with your smiles and your families. We’re proud to serve you.
“Our
SOIL CONSERVATION & DRAINAGE Agricultural and Wetlands Conservation. Water and Drainage Projects.
HIGHWAY & ROADS Federal, State, County, and Private Roads. Mining and Mobile Rock Crushing.
DEMOLITION
Site Clearance, Debris Removal, Foundation Removal, Emergency and Disaster Clean-Up.
SITE MANAGEMENT
Land Clearing, Grading, Trenching, Earth Moving, and Excavation.
CONCRETE
Now providing high quality concrete throughout Modoc County, CA
Lassen NPS Crushing Native Material For Re-Use.
FHWA Arches National Park Entrance Stabilization In Progress.
FHWA Arches Nation Park Entrance Stabilization In Progress.
FHWA Mosquito Ridge In Progress.
YOUR #1 STOP ON THE ROAD VOTED BEST TRAVEL CENTER IN NORTHERN CALIFORNIA FOR THE SECOND YEAR IN A ROW
Fuel, Food, and Friendly Faces All in One Place. Whether you’re heading north or cruising south, make your stop count at Chimney Rock Travel Center the place where service meets comfort, and every visit feels like home.
We’re honored to be named Best Travel Center by our Northern Cal community! From hot meals made from scratch, to friendly faces behind the counter, we’re proud to be your trusted stop for fuel, food, coffee, and convenience.
Every Batch. From Scratch. Every Time. Come try out our Dig-In Chicken, made fresh daily. Free small coffee or fountain drink with any fuel purchase of 6 gallons or more!
Overnight Truck Parking
White Bear Construction Wins "Best of" for Second Year, Named SBA Region 9 Rural Small Business of the Year
For the second consecutive year, White Bear Construction, Inc. has been voted the Best Construction Company in the Nor Cal Frontier Favorites. The back-to-back local honors coincide with a major national milestone, as the firm was also named the SBA Region 9 Rural Small Business of the Year.
Founded in 1999 by Amanda
President Amanda Hoy.
A Legacy of Local Excellence
The repeat "Frontier Favorite" win highlights White Bear's deep connection to the region. The firm is known for keeping its workforce almost entirely local, a feat Hoy considers one of their greatest achievements.
"Our proudest achievement is that we've done it with a
could fulfill.
Overcoming Rural Obstacles
Operating from one of California's most remote areas presents unique challenges in time and cost that urban contractors do not face. To remain competitive, White Bear strategically built its own fleet and equipment capabilities to perform work across California
The SBA Region 9 Rural Small Business of the Year award recognizes the firm's ability to thrive despite these geographic hurdles. Amanda Hoy credited the SBA for providing instrumental support and guidance as the company expanded its operations.
As a federally recognized
What does it take to become a Frontier Favorite?
In early February, communities across Modoc, Lassen, Plumas, eastern Shasta and Siskiyou counties were invited to nominate their favorite local businesses, organizations and community staples. The annual effort highlighted the many establishments that serve as the backbone of these rural areas. After nominations were collected, each was placed on a public survey, allowing residents to vote for their favorites through March 18.
The survey featured a wide range of businesses and organizations, from restaurants and cafes to hotels, retail stores, recreation providers and nonprofit groups. Participation in this year’s survey doubled compared with last year, reflecting growing community engagement and enthusiasm for supporting local enterprises.
Recognition is especially meaningful for businesses operating in small communities. Providing quality goods and services often requires significant effort, particularly with limited staffing, resources and a smaller customer base than businesses in larger cities. Despite these challenges, many local establishments continue to deliver consistent service and contribute to the character and economy of their communities.
Customer service remains a key factor in building strong local support. Many of the nominees were selected based on positive experiences shared by customers, highlighting the importance of friendliness, reliability and personal connection. In smaller communities, business owners and staff often know their customers by name, creating a
level of familiarity that is less common in larger markets.
This ability to build personal relationships is one of the advantages local businesses hold. Residents are more likely to return to establishments where they feel welcomed and appreciated, reinforcing a cycle of community support that benefits both businesses and
customers.
The Frontier Favorites survey provided an opportunity for residents to recognize the dedication and hard work of their favorite local businesses and organizations. It also gave those businesses a chance to gain visibility and celebrate the role they play in their communities.
THANK YOU FOR OUR SECOND WIN
At Crane Mountain Dental in Alturas our standard of care is to provide excellent comprehensive dentistry in an environment where patients & team feel heard and sincerely cared for.
● To ensure the best in modern dentistry, providers stay up to date on the latest procedures, materials, and protocols using evidence-based literature as their guide.
● Crane Mountain Dental is a well-run business. It is effective and efficient with procedures and scheduling. Patients are scheduled so
that time is used effectively to maximize productivity without compromising on quality, compassion, or patient consideration.
● Treatment is always collaborated with the patient and is based on the needs and desires of the patient as well as their ability to follow through both medically and financially.
● Providers at Crane Mountain Dental value continuing education and earnestly seek it from proven sources. They keep in mind the needs of the patients and the knowledge and skill set that would be most beneficial for them.
● Crane Mountain Dental has a strong sense of community. It supports its patients in their endeavors and seeks reasonable ways to be involved in the community.
● Providers and team make a conscious effort to connect with each patient in every setting. Patients should expect to be heard, empathized with & respected.
THE “BIG CITY REACH”
You Don’t Need a Big City Budget to Get 223,000 Views.
In the last 28 days, Modoc Record’s digital platforms reached over 223,600 views. Alturas & Cedarville: We have the local market locked down.
Sparks & Beyond: We’re capturing the “weekend traveler” and regional audience before they even hit the county line. Whether you want to reach your neighbor next door or a visitor from Sparks, we are the loudest voice in the region.
Get seen. Advertise in print and online today.
Call (530) 233-2632 chelsea@modocmedia.com
While Others are Quiet, We’re Getting Louder. The Stats 223,600+ Views this month.
Content Interactions UP 39%.
New Followers UP 30%.
Our community is engaging with us more than ever. When you advertise in the Modoc Record and our digital channels, you aren’t just buying an ad—you’re buying an audience that is actively watching, clicking, and growing.
Put our numbers to work for your business.
Sparks is your #3 audience. This is a huge selling point for:
Hotels/Airbnbs: People in Sparks are looking for a getaway.
Restaurants/Retail: Travelers from the Reno/ Sparks area are the “spending” crowd that passes through.
Real Estate: People looking to escape the city often start their search by following local news.
California Pines Lodge
VOTED BEST WEDDING VENUE FOR THE SECOND TIME IN A ROW
This is Jake Mangiardi, Executive Chef here at Cal Pines Lakeside Steakhouse. I want to personally thank the Modoc County Community Members for making us the “Best Wedding Venue” winner 2 years in a row in the Frontier Favorites. The support from the locals and travelers afar has kept us rocking Cal Pines for the better half of 2 decades. We want to give a special “Thank You” from our dedicated Staff that is committed to giving every customer the most enjoyable dining experience possible. Plan your next event with us!
We offer very fair pricing, on-site hotel accommodations, a large banquet room, Gazebo on the Lake, and a swimming pool that is open seasonally.
Make Cal Pines your n t destination for any wedding or event!
Chimney Rock Travel Center: Voted Best in Modoc County for the Second Year Running
Chimney Rock Travel Center has proudly been voted Best Travel Center in the 2025 Modoc Records Frontier Favorites. This milestone marks the center’s second consecutive win in the community-powered program that honors the very best of Modoc County.
The award highlights over a decade of trusted service, unbeatable value, and cultural pride—all under the leadership of the Pit River Tribe’s economic development arm, the Kwahn Corporation.
Tribal-Owned, CommunityFocused
Since its grand opening in 2016, Chimney Rock has grown into a vital regional hub representing tribal empowerment and business excellence. Operated by the Pit River Tribe, the center reinvests in local initiatives and programs that preserve culture and improve the lives of residents across the region.
“This award is a reflection of our team’s dedication and the community’s support,” says Executive Director Christopher Orozco.
The Most Trusted Spot for a Fantastic Lunch
This year, Chimney Rock
Two juicy tenders and dill pickles on a toasted potato bun.
S’Mash Bowls: Red mashers and gravy topped with sweet corn and hand-breaded chicken bites.
commitment to excellence: Best Fuel Prices: Consistently the most competitive rates in Modoc County.
Exceptionally Clean Facilities: A top priority for long-haul drivers and families alike.
Walk-in Beer Cave: Featuring a massive selection of chilled beverages.
Friendly Staff: Known for welcoming every guest with local hospitality.
A Future Built on 11 Years of Excellence
has sharpened its focus on a singular goal: becoming the region's most trusted destination for a great lunch experience. By combining speed and convenience with high-quality, kitchen-fresh meals, the center is redefining what travelers and locals expect from a roadside stop.
Signature
Special: Scratch
Dig-In-Chicken
The centerpiece of their lunch success is the new signature special: Scratch Dig-In-Chicken — Every Batch Made From Scratch. This isn't your average "gas station chicken." Each batch is hand-breaded and cooked in small increments to ensure peak freshness.
Popular lunch items include: The Scratchwich:
Hatch Mac: A bold, creamy macaroni and cheese featuring mild green chiles.
Why the Community Voted for Chimney Rock
Beyond the kitchen, the travel center earned its top marks through a consistent
As Chimney Rock prepares to celebrate its 11th anniversary, the team is already looking toward the future. Plans are underway to expand the menu with even more flavor profiles and rotating specials designed to keep lunch enthusiasts coming back. With a focus on comfort, quality, and community, Chimney Rock is excited to continue its tradition of excellence for another decade and beyond.
Double Victory at the Lake: California Pines Lodge Secures “Best Wedding Venue” Once Again
For the community of Modoc County, California Pines Lodge has long been more than just a destination—it’s a landmark. This year, the local favorite has even more reason to celebrate, securing the title of “Best Wedding Venue” in the Frontier Favorites for the second year in a row, alongside a win for “Best Hotel.”
For Executive Chef Jake Mangiardi, these accolades are a testament to two decades of momentum.
"The support from the locals and travelers afar has kept us rocking Cal Pines for the better half of two decades," says Mangiardi. "We want to give a special ‘thank you’ from our dedicated staff that is committed to giving every customer the most enjoyable dining experience possible."
A Venue for Every Milestone
What makes California Pines a repeat champion? According to Event Coordinator and bartender Lereen Summers, it’s the passion for the "party" and the versatility of the grounds. Whether you’re planning a black-tie wedding or a casual family reunion, the Lodge offers a suite of amenities that are hard to match in Northern California:
The Lodge experience includes:
The Ceremony: A picturesque Gazebo on the Lake, offering a backdrop of Canadian Snow Geese, White Pelicans, and soaring Cranes.
The Stay: 25 rustic guest rooms and a
dedicated bridal suite allow the wedding party to stay on-site, ensuring safety and convenience after a night of celebrating.
The Celebration: A large banquet room and an on-site sports bar complete with a pool table, stage, and dance floor for highenergy receptions.
The Dining: In-house catering and a family-style restaurant make planning seamless, from the rehearsal dinner to the farewell brunch.
"Being able to throw a great party or event is a passion of mine," Summers explains. "Our staff works tremendously hard to ensure the guests have the most enjoyable
time. We can accommodate and create an event you will not soon forget."
While the venue wins awards, the Cal Pines Lakeside Steakhouse remains the heart of the operation. Chef Mangiardi and his team have built an unmatched reputation for quality, making it a premier choice for everything from a high-stakes event to a quiet date night or a memorable family meal.
The team recommends calling ahead for reservations to ensure you get a front-row seat to the lake views and the signature hospitality that has defined the Lodge for twenty years.
The celebration of their recent wins is just the warm-up. California Pines Lodge is inviting the entire community to join them on Friday, July 3rd, 2026, for their annual Independence Day Firework Show. It’s a North Country tradition you won’t want to miss.
Plan Your Next Chapter
Whether you are planning a rustic wedding, a family reunion, or a memorable night out, the team at California Pines Lodge is ready to welcome you.
Location: 750 Shasta View Drive (Just off County Road 71)
Contact: (530) 233-5842
Pro Tip: Ask for Lereen Summers to begin planning your private event, and be sure to call ahead for dinner reservations!
California Pines Lodge
VOTED BEST HOTEL
We here at Cal Pines Lodge have an unmatched reputation for delivering an amazing experience to our customers. Whether you are planning an event or looking for a great date night location. Maybe you are looking for a memorable night out with the family or even just looking for a great meal.
“Our staff works tremendously hard on all events to come together to ensure the guests have the most enjoyable time. Thank you so much for choosing us for the special moments in your life. So whether it is a Birthday, Wedding, Anniversary, Family Reunion, etc,” Lereen Summers, Cal Pines Event Coordinator.
Best Farming Supply in Northern California
Thank You! Modoc Farm Supply Everything You Need Under One Roof.
We’re deeply honored and incredibly grateful to be voted Best Farming Supply in the 2025 Frontier Favorites:
BEST FEED
not
From the bottom of our hearts: THANK YOU for your support, your trust, and your votes.
Whether you’re tending a herd, fixing fence lines, or gearing up for the season, we’re the one-stop shop for your farm and ranch needs.
Strong community ties and real relationships.
Tailored advice on everything from sizing to nutrition.
Best Farming Supply in Northern California Thank You!
Serving Folks With a Smile.
Whether you’re tending a herd, fixing fence lines, or gearing up for the season, we’re the one-stop shop for your farm and ranch needs.
Serving Folks With a Smile.
They’re not just a store they’re part of an extended ranch family. When you shop at Modoc Farm Supply, you get:
Tailored advice on everything from sizing to nutrition.
You’ll be glad you made the trip.
You’ll be glad you made the trip.
Our Products Include:
Our Products Include:
Farm Supply Everything You Need Under One Roof.
Better prices than the big-box chains.
We know time is precious on the farm. That’s why we offer feed delivery services bringing the same highquality feed and supplies you expect in-store straight to your gate.
Genuine expertise from a multigenerational, family-owned business.
Strong community ties and real relationships.
They’re not just a store they’re part of an extended ranch family. When you shop at Modoc Farm Supply, you get:
Animal Feed Organic and conventional options for livestock and pets.
Animal Feed Organic and conventional options for livestock and pets.
Livestock and Pet supplies and Animal Health.
Farming Supplies Fencing, bedding, tools, hardware, and more.
We’re deeply honored and incredibly grateful to be voted Best Farming Supply in the 2025 Frontier Favorites: Best of Northern California! This award means the world to us not because of the title, but because you, our customers, made it happen.
Full clothing lines for the entire family along with Montana Jewelry.
Outerwear & Gear Tough boots, jackets, coveralls, gloves, hats.
From the bottom of our hearts: THANK YOU for your support, your trust, and your votes.
Better prices than the big-box chains.
Genuine expertise from a multigenerational, family-owned business
Whether you’re tending a herd, fixing fence lines, or gearing up for the season, we’re the one-stop shop for your farm and ranch needs.
Serving Folks With a Smile.
We know time is precious on the farm. That’s why we offer feed delivery services bringing the same highquality feed and supplies you expect in-store straight to your gate.
They’re not just a store they’re part of an extended ranch family. When you shop at Modoc Farm Supply, you get:
Strong community ties and real relationships. Tailored advice on everything from sizing to nutrition. You’ll be glad you made the trip.
Voted Best Feed & Farm Supply for the 2nd time in Frontier Favorites: Best of Northern California.
Our Products Include:
“NOW CARRYING HICKORY SHEDS”
“WE ARE UHAUL DEALERS”
Animal Feed Organic and conventional options for livestock and pets.
Farming Supplies Fencing, bedding, tools, hardware, and more.
Outerwear & Gear Tough boots, jackets, coveralls, gloves, hats. Visit us at: