COMING SOON TO A NEWS STAND NEAR YOU The Free Modoc County Record!
The Modoc County Vol. 133, No. 19
RECORD Alturas, California
July 31, 2025
$1.00
Serving Modoc Since 1892 14 Pages
YouTuber BitWit Donates High-End Computers to Modoc High School, Empowering Students in Video Production and Mechanical Form Classes Modoc High School received a generous donation of two stateof-the-art computers on July 24, 2025, from Kyle Hansen—known as BitWit on YouTube— and his sponsors. The donation, presented to teacher Mr. Marcussen and his students, will enhance the school’s Video Production and Mechanical Form classes by providing advanced technology to support their creative and technical projects. About a month ago, Kyle posted a video on his YouTube channel asking if anyone in rural communities needed upgraded computer hardware. Mr. Marcussen responded, expecting no reply but felt it was worth a try. Kyle answered the call, visiting Modoc High School to personally deliver the computers and film a YouTube video featuring the students, set to be released soon on his BitWit channel. During the unveiling, Kyle presented the class with a high-end prebuilt computer ideal for their classroom needs.
In a surprise reveal, he then gifted a second computer: a top-of-theline PC equipped with the most powerful video card and processor combination available today—specifically for Mr. Marcussen to elevate his teaching capabilities. Both computers were donated free of charge, made possible by Kyle’s sponsors, hardware manufacturers, and
industry partners. Principal Kristen Budmark praised the donation, saying, “This gift is more than technology—it’s a reminder that even in our small corner of the world, our students’ creativity and dreams deserve the very best tools to bring them to life. Kyle Hansen and his sponsors have given our kids a glimpse of what’s
possible when passion meets generosity.” She also acknowledged the crucial role of the teacher who made it happen: “A special thank you to Mr. Marcussen for believing in what’s possible and reaching out on behalf of our students. His initiative is the reason this gift found its
WHAT’S THE WORST THAT CAN HAPPEN???? Modoc Performing Arts Theater is presenting our 13th Annual Children’s Musical Theater Camp production of What’s The Worst That Can Happen written in 2020 by 18 MPAT campers in a virtual Zoom environment due to the constrictions of COVID. Dan Roeder utilized his talents to direct and edit this production as they wrote their own roles, developed their characters, wrote song verses and choruses, and developed scenes and a comedic plot with unexpected twists and heart-warming resolutions. Five more campers joined to produce a film version of the musical utilizing green screen shots and using a WURRLYedu service to record the music. All of the Covid restrictions were followed and the film was made. 5 years later we are able to present the original play as it was intended-for a live audience. Our story finds an unlikely group of adventurers, fantasy creatures and villains all meeting on a magical island where their stories intertwine in irreversible ways. There is trouble on the island as the trees are turning evil and start stirring up trouble. All of the characters must decide what is the right
way to proceed in each of their quests. This original musical features 5 original songs. (Writing and producing a play in 3 weeks: What’s The Worst That Can Happen?) CAST OF C H A R A C T E R S : VILLAINSCali Allert-Warren, Gabby Sparks, Kaelyn Hinton, Holland Lauppe, Alisha Allert-Warren, Chris Armstrong....FANTASY CREATURES: Isabella Brannon, Karter Murphy, Amelia Burnett, Beau Wilson, Avianna Dresbach, Jed Wilson...... ADVENTURERS: Afyna
Chambers, Natalie Silva, Brylee Wilson, Piper Brogan, Shelby Silva, Zoey Allert-Warren, Natalie Martin, and Axl Whitlock. The production will be live on stage at the ACT Niles Theater Saturday August 2 at 1:30 PM (doors open at 1pm). Ticket prices are: ADULTS $8.00... STUDENTS AND SENIORS $5.00.... CHILDREN under age 4 are FREE. We want to thank our sponsors: Modoc County Arts Council, Modoc Vineyard Academy,
BPOE Alturas Elks, MPAT and especially The David Z Foundation for allowing Dan the time to come back and co-direct with Sadie Camacho this original musical. Please check our FB page (Modoc Performing Arts Theater) for more information. We will be sharing more about the cast, crew and creators of this ambitious project. You may also contact Sadie Camacho or Karen Hays (640-0028). SO.................WHAT’S THE WORST THAT CAN HAPPEN?
way to Modoc High.” Modoc High School extends its gratitude to Kyle Hansen and his sponsors for their incredible generosity. The new computers will provide students with hands-on access to professional-grade technology, fostering skills in video production, mechanical design, and
beyond. The public is invited to watch for the upcoming YouTube video on BitWit’s channel (youtube.com/@BitWit), which will showcase the donation event and highlight the talented students of Modoc High School.
CAL FIRE’s New Fire Hawk Takes Flight in Northeast California
CAL FIRE LassenModoc Unit Facebook The Lassen-Modoc Unit’s new S-70i Fire Hawk helicopter has been making a powerful debut this past week, supporting a surge of lightning-caused wildfires across the region. Stationed in Bieber, California, the Fire Hawk is a state-of-theart aircraft purposebuilt for high-demand missions. Outfitted with a 1,000-gallon water tank, advanced navigation systems, and night-flying capabilities, it marks a significant upgrade from our previous helicopter. With this new asset,
CAL FIRE can now respond more rapidly and effectively to wildfires and emergencies across Lassen, Modoc, and Plumas Counties. The Fire Hawk also plays a critical role in locating lightning-sparked fires in remote and rugged terrain, while providing vital aerial support to our hardworking crews on the ground. This helicopter is a game-changer for fire response in our region— and a major boost to public safety. Learn more about CAL FIRE’s aviation program: fire.ca.gov/aviationprogram