FALL WEATHER COOPERATES FOR A GREAT MODOC WEEKEND The Modoc County
RECORD
Vol. 133, No. 26
Alturas, California
September 18, 2025
Serving Modoc Since 1892 24 Pages
Alturas Balloonfest fills skies with color, community spirit The skies above Alturas lit up this past weekend as the Alturas Chamber of Commerce hosted its annual Balloonfest, a three-day event that drew visitors from across Modoc County. The festival opened Friday evening with a pilot meetand-greet at the Holiday Market on 12th Street, where community members had the chance to talk with balloon crews ahead of the launches. On Saturday morning, crowds gathered at the Modoc Medical Center on Nagle Street for a pancake breakfast and sunrise balloon launch. Later that evening, a night glow at Veteran’s Park on Water Street illuminated the park with tethered balloons glowing against the twilight sky. The festival wrapped up Sunday with a continental breakfast and unfortunately due to winds were not able to
Alturas Chamber of Commerce-Facebook
do another balloon launch. Organizers said the event highlighted the importance of community spirit and small-town pride. After the festival, the Alturas Chamber of Commerce shared a photo of a hot air balloon on social media with the caption, “Never get tired of watching this.”
Phased in Photography
Alturas Chamber of Commerce-Facebook
Chuck Norris Reflects on Lassen Peak Hike and Dixie Fire’s Impact Actor and martial artist Chuck Norris recently shared his experience revisiting Lassen Peak, one of Northern California’s most iconic hiking destinations. The star, well known for his rugged on-screen presence, described the hike as both uplifting and bittersweet. Norris noted the lingering scars from the 2021 Dixie Fire, one of California’s most destructive wildfires, which swept through vast stretches of forest and left behind lasting damage
to the region’s landscape. Despite the devastation, he emphasized that the park’s natural beauty continues to endure. “While it was heartbreaking to see the damage left behind by the 2021 Dixie Fire, the park’s beauty still shines through,” Norris said. “Walking those trails brought back so many wonderful memories.” Lassen Peak, standing at 10,457 feet, is the southernmost active volcano in the Cascade Range and
a popular destination for hikers. For Norris, the visit held personal meaning beyond the scenic views. His wife grew up in the area, and he credits her with introducing him to the wonders of the park. “My wife grew up around these parts, and I’ll always be grateful she introduced me to such magnificent sights,” Norris reflected. Concluding his remarks, Norris offered a simple but heartfelt message: “God bless.”
Chuck Norris-Facebook