When a film crew from the Public Broadcasting Station came to town, Plumas County showed off its history, its leaders and its landscapes dressed in subtle autumn hues. By the time they left, the crew had enough footage for a short educational documentary with the potential to reach 60 million American households.
The producers of “Viewpoint” spent Oct. 4 in some of the county’s most iconic spots. They interviewed local leaders in the Plumas County Law Library on Jackson Street, across from the county courthouse. Built in 1860 by Judge Daniel Goodwin, the classic building is California’s oldest continuously used law office.
From there they moved on to Quincy’s art galleries on Main Street, Portola’s Railroad Museum, the Beckwourth Cabin and Sierra Valley. The combination of settings offered a sense of what home looks like to those who claim Plumas County as theirs, said Debra Lucero, county administrative officer, who coordinated the PBS filming.
Her goal is for the film to offer a glimpse of what it’s like to live, work, raise a family and start a business in Plumas County. That might help attract young families and entrepreneurs to relocate, she said.
“For those who seek a deeper connection to nature, or just wish to tap into their resilient side, mountain life just might be the place they are looking for,” said Lucero.
She was among the county leaders interviewed by Andres Castillo, who led the PBS film crew. Other interviewees included Riccardo Jacobus, owner of the Drunk Brush and Courtyard Suites; John Steffanic, Plumas County fair director; and Corey Pargee, executive director of Feather River Land Trust.
Together they hope to introduce PBS viewers to Plumas County’s recreation activities and the entrepreneurs who help access them; its unique farm-to-table restaurants and breweries; the world-class beef raised here; and, of course, the streams, lakes and mountains that dominate life in Plumas County.
At its meeting Oct. 1, the Plumas County Board of Supervisors approved up to $29,300 from the county’s general fund to cover costs of the filming. Most of that went toward covering the time invested by county officials, estimated at eight hours, and $3,400 for film crew expenses.
“Viewpoint” is hosted by Dennis Quaid. Each story shares a common aim to change lives for the better. Recent previous “Viewpoint” documentaries have showcased aluminum as a resource, natural foods and wellness, and American art.
Quaid is expected to retire soon so the Plumas County show could be one of his last, said Lucero. The film is expected to air sometime in spring 2025, she said.
