Growing Up Chico Winter 2023 by Growing Up Chico Magazine

Winter 2023.indd 1

10/19/23 5:08 PM

G R OW I N G U P C H I C O M AG A Z I N E W I N T E R 2 0 2 3

Winter 2023.indd 2

10/19/23 5:08 PM

Winter 2023.indd 3

10/19/23 5:08 PM

Cover Photography by: Park Avenue Photography (530) 588-4949 www.parkavenuephotos.com Park Avenue Photography specializes in newborn, maternity, and children photography. They recently moved their studio to 1376 Longfellow Avenue in Chico and have an extensive collection of props, children's clothing, hair bows, and more to use during your session. Advertising Deadline: To advertise in our spring issue, please contact us by December 15th. Our spring issue will be on stands February, March, and April. Contact Jason Corona at: 530-591-2634 or jason@growingupchico.com

Growing Up Chico Magazine is published quarterly and available, free, at over 200 family-friendly locations throughout Butte County. We are also available online at www.growingupchico.com

Shelly Brandon Shelly is Mom to two daughters, one in college and the other in high school. She is an avid traveler, and a lover of animals and the outdoors. She has been a high school biology teacher, a zookeeper, and lately, a freelance writer.

Dr. Elisa Brown Dr. Brown has been a board-certified pediatrician for 31 years, 28 of those in Chico, caring for kids and their families in her office practice and at the hospital. She enjoys spending time with her husband, 2 adult children, her mom and 4 cats.

Tim Milhorn Born and raised in Chico, Tim graduated from Chico High and Chico State. He is an English teacher at Orland High School and soccer coach for Butte United, Orland High, and Butte College. He was also awarded California Interscholastic Federation Model Coach of the Year, 2020-2021.

Michaela Gulbransen Michaela is the regional administrator for High School Exchange Students through ICES (icesusa.org). She is passionate about foreign exchange and the impacts of raising culturally aware children. She is a proud mom to 3 kids ages 7, 5, and 4. Michaela is a life long learner and enjoys having great conversations over coffee.

Lacey Welker

For Advertising Information, Contact Jason Corona: Sales Director (530) 591-2634 jason@growingupchico.com Aveed Khaki Publisher/Owner (530) 519-5683 aveed@growingupchico.com

Winter 2023.indd 4

Lacey Welker is a certified pediatric sleep specialist, Owner and Founder of Catching Baby Zzz, and an avid blogger. She helps families worldwide in solving child sleep issues and is committed to improving sleep for the whole family.

Copyright © 2023 by Growing Up Chico Magazine. All rights reserved. Reproductions without permission are prohibited. Articles and advertisements found in Growing Up Chico Magazine do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the management or ownership. We reserve the right to edit. Every effort is made to avoid errors, misspellings, and omissions. If an error is found, please accept our sincere apologies and notify us of the mistake.

10/19/23 5:08 PM

Winter 2023.indd 5

10/19/23 5:08 PM

Community

08 Achieve Charter School: Discover this incredible learning environment and how it is helping to reshape education in Butte County.

11 Indoor Fun! It may be getting cold and wet outside,

see what’s inside...

but there are plenty of places offering indoor fun in the North Valley! Check out some of our favorites in this feature.

18 One Way Truth Life: This faith-based company offers clothing with a mission at their brick-and-mortar location in Chico as well as online.

24 Teacher Spotlight: Steve Oberlander is no ordinary

teacher! He is also a musician, actor, coach, chess club director, and dedicated family man. Read more about this incredible human in our teacher spotlight.

Parenting

10 Concert Etiquette: There are few things as awe-

inspiring as live music, and children enjoy it just as much as parents do! Find out how to get the most out of a visit to the North State Symphony (NSS) in this article by NSS music director, Scott Seaton.

15 Stay Healthy this Winter: Local pediatrician, Dr. Elisa Brown, walks us through the many ways to ward off sickness this winter.

20 Sleep: We all could use more sleep, and there's good reason for it too. Certified pediatric sleep specialist, and founder of Catching Baby Zzz, Lacey Welker discusses the importance of quality sleep for infants and toddlers.

22 Embracing Tradition and Cultivating Connections: Michaela Gulbransen offers an easy holiday hack to save time while continuing a fun holiday tradition and introduces us to a cultural tradition of her own.

15 18

Winter Fun 26 Gift Guide: We scoured the shelves of some of our favorite local businesses to find some of the best gifts for kids this holiday season.

28 Recipe: You read about æbleskiver in Michaela

Gulbransen's article on page 22. Now learn how to make it!

29 Winter Calendar: Winter is finally here and with wet weather ahead, there's no better time to start planning those indoor activities! 6

G R OW I N G U P C H I C O M AG A Z I N E W I N T E R 2 0 2 3

Winter 2023.indd 6

28 10/19/23 5:08 PM

Winter 2023.indd 7

10/19/23 5:08 PM

by name, and Casey says, “It’s actually an intervention in itself for students who have difficulty thriving in a bigger environment.” The school has a daily morning assembly with the entire student population in order to set the tone for the day. “They talk about the virtue of the week, give kids tools to be successful, and make sure that our students understand how special they are to us and the world in general.” The school focuses on individualized student attention to help each child achieve their best experience. Personalized learning plans are developed after meeting with each student and their parents at the start of the new school year. It’s a roadmap for the first trimester which is then revisited and revised as students move through the year. The plans follow the students to the next teacher and grade in order to allow for increased continuity throughout their educational career.

Two Campuses One Vision

As a child, Casey attended St. Thomas Moore in Paradise and felt it gave her the tools she needed to be successful, no matter the challenges she faced. When she left in seventh grade and entered the traditional public school system, she says, “I felt sad for everybody because I realized they didn’t get that same experience.” As a twelve-year-old, she decided she wanted to be a teacher and give that personalized 8

education to everyone. She left for college and returned to teach at the same school she attended, eventually enrolling her own son in kindergarten there. Unfortunately, St. Thomas Moore closed, leaving many community members disappointed at the loss of this small school option in Paradise. The closure led Casey and other families to investigate the idea of charter schools. Casey shares, “It turns out starting a charter school is super difficult and political, but it’s magical because you get to start a school from the ground up.” A team of parents and community members, including former Paradise Unified School District Superintendent and Butte County Office of Education Superintendent Gene Even, worked together to found the nonprofit charter school which eventually opened its doors in 2005. The school is small by design, allowing children to attend classes in an environment where everyone knows each other. The principals and teachers call every student

The Chico campus has kindergarten through 8th grade available, and the Paradise site has kindergarten through 6th grade, with 7th and 8th grades being added in the next two years. The community has also asked Achieve to open a high school which has been approved but is currently on hold. Open enrollment for Achieve begins in January, and a lottery will be held later in the event that there are more applications than available spaces. Most grade levels have a waitlist, although there are currently openings in a few grade levels. Please call (530) 872-4100 or visit achievecharter.org to learn more.

WRITTEN BY SHELLY BRANDON

Achieve Charter School began with the vision of providing a small school option for families in Paradise. It first opened in 2005 with nine staff members and 100 students, but has since grown to occupy campuses in both Paradise and Chico, with 72 teachers, aides, support staff, and almost 400 students between the two sites. Casey Taylor, superintendent and executive director of Achieve Charter School, shares how important it is to provide a strong sense of belonging, high expectations, and personalized support in a small, communitybased school.

“We really believe in kids having strong connections to caring adults and knowing that they aren’t all going to connect with the same adult, and we have lots of options and opportunities for them to make a strong connection.” The staff to student ratio is about 1:17 with a teacher and at least one, and sometimes two aides in every class. The school has crisis counseling support through North Valley Community Foundation and Butte County Office of Education and will also be hosting interns from Chico State this year as they continue to grow.

While the Camp Fire may have damaged their original Paradise campus, it did not diminish the effect this ‘little’ school has had and continues to have in both the Chico and Paradise communities. Visit them online and see if this school is right for you or someone you know.

G R OW I N G U P C H I C O M AG A Z I N E W I N T E R 2 0 2 3

Winter 2023.indd 8

10/19/23 5:08 PM

Winter 2023.indd 9

10/19/23 5:08 PM

What about the symphony? Have you ever thought about attending a North State Symphony concert but are unsure of what to expect? Maybe you don’t know what to wear, when to clap, or even if you’d like the music. Well, as the music director of the North State Symphony, I'm excited to say we have plenty of offerings perfect for kids and parents alike this season. As there are often a number of questions regarding general information and symphony etiquette, I’d love to take a moment and answer some of the most common ones.

What should you wear to a symphony concert? Whatever you would like! Some people treat the symphony as a date night and get dressed up; others choose casual. There are no set rules, and we encourage you to dress comfortably. Back when I was a music student in Boston, I recall going to the Boston Symphony in jeans and a t-shirt. I really just want you to enjoy sharing the magical experience of live music with a large symphony orchestra! A typical symphony concert will have a variety of pieces on the program. Some of 10

Is it okay to bring your kids? Absolutely! As long as they can remain quiet and respectful during the performance, you are more than welcome to bring them. If there is any doubt, I would suggest getting an aisle seat near the back of the auditorium in case you need to rush out, or even pick your favorite part of the program and only bring them for that portion. If you think they are too young for our regular concerts, make sure you check out our youth concert offerings! Will you love all the music on any given program? I hope so! But, if there was something you didn’t like or didn’t quite understand, I encourage you to come to the edge of the stage following the concert and talk to me—the conductor. I also want to hear what kind of music YOU like and what you would like to see at future North State Symphony concerts!

WRITTEN BY SCOTT SEATON, MUSIC DIRECTOR OF THE NORTHSTATE SYMPHONY

Our concerts have 65 professional musicians on stage and don’t just encompass serious “classical” music, but a healthy mix of different themes, styles, and genres. Our concerts have encompassed everything from mariachi to Rachmaninoff and Beethoven, even cinema-themed concerts.

them are short, singular works, and some are larger with multiple movements, like Beethoven’s Symphony No. 5, which has four distinct movements. If we play one of the movements of the larger piece and you enjoy what you just heard, you are more than welcome to applaud to show your excitement and appreciation—trust me, musicians like it! When we have a soloist performing with us, those pieces are usually multi-movement works and the same rules apply—if the music comes to a distinct pause, you are encouraged to show your amazement with what the soloist just played!

G R OW I N G U P C H I C O M AG A Z I N E W I N T E R 2 0 2 3

Winter 2023.indd 10

10/19/23 5:08 PM

Winter Fun Guide:

Top Indoor Community Play and Youth Centers to Explore As the winter chill settles in, parents often find themselves on the lookout for ways to keep their kids warm, active, and engaged. Fortunately, Butte County offers a number of indoor locations for you to explore and discover. Whether it's a day of climbing walls, art projects, or a plunge into the world of science, our list of indoor community play and youth centers is your passport to keeping the winter blues at bay.

WRITTEN BY SCOTT SEATON, MUSIC DIRECTOR OF THE NORTHSTATE SYMPHONY

Athletic Horizons, at 415 Otterson Drive, Unit 70, beckons families with little ones to embark on an exhilarating gymnastic adventure. Featuring a wealth of bars, beams, trampolines, springboards, and more, Athletic Horizons caters to a broad age range—from 18 months to 18 years. They have classes to suit every child's interests and skill levels too, from mommy-and-me sessions to action-packed ninja classes and engaging programs tailored for teenagers. The center's sign-up system adds an element of convenience as well. Families can secure their spot in a chosen class for the entire session, offering consistency and a sense of belonging. Exciting free play events like Fantastic Fridays, for toddlers aged 5 and under, are held from 10 am to 12 pm. Saturdays open the door to a free-play setting during open gym hours, perfect for kids aged 6 and older, from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. Families seeking adventure and active enjoyment will find Athletic Horizons to be an enticing destination for their little ones. Please visit their website at www.athletichorizons.com to find the upcoming dates when this special event is being offered. Cal Skate/FunLand is a 20,000-square-foot indoor roller rink. This skating haven caters to individuals of all skill levels, whether you prefer the traditional quad or inline roller skates. Cal Skate even offers lessons for littles and beginners on Saturday morning. While there, take a breather from the rink's lively atmosphere and enjoy the snack bar and arcade, where you can refuel between skating 11

Winter 2023.indd 11

10/19/23 5:08 PM

sessions, all while grooving to the latest chart-toppers or engaging in special events. Cal Skate has proudly hosted over 38,000 birthday parties in its 45-year history. They have fine-tuned the art of hosting exceptional birthday parties, ensuring you have all the fun while they take care of the rest. When it comes to hosting memorable birthday parties, Cal Skate is equipped with a wide array of attractions. To embark on your ultimate birthday party experience or to connect with them regarding special events or daily admission rates call (530) 343-1602 or pay them a visit at 2465 Carmichael Drive. You can also book online 24/7, 7 days a week to secure your special celebration.

This destination for families continues to expand its footprint and its offerings; you can even bring in your own food. They have added two more VR experiences and have a new indoor Gellyball arena. If you are looking for an exciting, safe, and friendly environment, O’Zone is a great place to visit. Owned and operated by two local families, they have used reclaimed wood for the axe lanes, and, being parents, consider safety a top priority. Their family-friendly vision revolves around kids being present with parents, ensuring everyone gets to have a good time. Check out their website, ozoneoroville.com for online booking, seasonal events, surprises, and more. Chico Children's Museum is located at 12

The museum recently introduced new membership pricing that will help to achieve inclusivity and will make a great Christmas gift for the whole family. As they continue to evolve and bounce back following the pandemic, they are offering various discount rates including EBT, PEBT, and WIC discounts, as well as business-sponsored play date events to make the museum even more accessible to our community. The Creative Captains have undergone hands-on training to help engage and bring ideas to life through play. With over 28 interactive exhibits, there’s always something new for children of all ages to discover that will make them want to come back time and time again. Art in the Park is a favorite exhibit among guests changing weekly to offer new learning themes and current member suggestions. Other exhibits featured are a cafe, dentist's office, supermarket, “Fort-Landia”, an “Ag-zhibit”, space station, and sensory experiences with so much more being added and updated monthly. Chico Children’s Museum encourages community involvement, volunteerism, and builds strong community partnerships by allowing businesses to sponsor exhibits and events. Look for children’s entrepreneurial events, markets, author readings, creative classes, and more by staying updated through their website and social media channels. Field trips, private events, and parties are also being offered. Visit in person, Tuesday through Sunday, 10 am to 4 pm, or online at chicochildrensmuseum.org.

Gateway Science Museum—Do you crave discovery and knowledge but want to make it fun and engaging? Located just beside the Bidwell Mansion at 625 Esplanade in Chico rests the ever-popular Gateway Science Museum, with its rotating exhibitions that are sure to pique your curiosity and spark creativity. Part of CSU Chico, the museum is a great space for summer camps and classes with STEM-based activities. They even have a lending library where you can check out a science activity kit. While it is likely that Chico students will have a field trip here, parents are always welcome to explore and enrich their imaginations with their children. Mainstays of the museum include the skeletons of ice-age mammals and a number of outdoor murals. Exhibits range from the natural history of bumblebees to comedy captured in wildlife, and the budding paleontologist can examine fossils up close to learn more about our past. They’ve explored space, earthquake patterns, local agriculture and so much more. Check out their website to see the current exhibits, and be sure to mark your calendars for Museum Week at the end of February. Rare Air Trampoline Park—You can easily jump into quality time where the whole family can enjoy many energetic hours of fun at Rare Air. With exciting attractions like the Dodgeball Arena, Battle Beam, Airbag Pit, Slam Dunk Court, Junior Court, Rock Wall, a new and improved arcade, and a wide assortment of food and drinks, it's a great location for both kids and adults.

WRITTEN BY MICHAELA GULBRANSEN

O’Zone Entertainment is the newest location to have opened on the list and is located in Downtown Oroville, at 1726 Montgomery Street, with its door facing Oak Street. O'Zone started with a bang, offering axe throwing, a VR escape room with six different experiences and skill levels, and a variety area with air hockey, a pool table, and even a sensory room. Even though the space is climate-controlled, you’ll work up a sweat.

325 Main Street and has a mission to enrich the young minds of our community. The museum offers inclusive, hands-on experiences that celebrate curiosity, connect families, and foster a sense of belonging. Under new directorship and driven by a passionate board with several new members, they are dedicated to restoring the museum to its former glory with a renewed commitment to continuous improvements that ensure that every visit is a fresh adventure.

Rare Air is located at 1090 E. 20th St., Chico, and you can contact them at (530) 433-5557 for holiday hours. Be sure to check their

G R OW I N G U P C H I C O M AG A Z I N E W I N T E R 2 0 2 3

Winter 2023.indd 12

10/19/23 5:08 PM

Facebook page for updates and special events. For parents with younger children, don't miss the dedicated toddler and sensory hours on Fridays and Saturdays. It's a wonderful opportunity for families to bond, stay active, and create memorable winter moments together. Come to Rare Air and bounce into winter with enthusiasm! The Terrain Park Climbing Center (TPCC) in Chico isn't just a climbing gym; it's a vibrant community and an adventure waiting to be explored by your youth, aged two to adult, which makes it a great activity for the whole family. Their mission to enhance lives, improve mental well-being, and create connections through the wonders of climbing, weight lifting, and a supportive community is clear through all of their offerings. Rock climbing is the main attraction at TPCC with towering bouldering walls and a range of difficulty levels from V0 to V9. They have recently added a Kilter Board offering over 70,000 routes for an exhilarating training experience. Climbers of all ages and skill levels are encouraged to scale new heights as they offer parents a front-row seat in an area where you can visibly watch as your children reach new limits. A fitness gym onsite offers a complete weight-lifting room

for a full-body workout, with day passes available for non-members. Lockers and showers are also available for guest use.

parties, class schedules, adult classes, parties, events, and more.

TPCC is so much more than just a climbing center; from birthday parties to group gatherings, they have thought of it all. Options include providing access to the entire facility, a reserved climbing section, a party or banquet room, and an upstairs lounge area. The upstairs lounge area features games like ping-pong, foosball, and cornhole. Specifically for Youth, TPCC offers programs that make rock climbing an adventure for all. Join their youth climbing team or enroll in their exciting summer camps. Being student-minded they also offer study rooms, free Wi-Fi, secure bike parking, snacks and refreshments, and a knowledgeable and caring staff which makes this a great place to hang out after school, tackle your homework, and take advantage of the facilities being offered. A membership to TPCC is available for purchase and would make a wonderful Christmas gift.

WRITTEN BY MICHAELA GULBRANSEN

Kinetics Academy of Dance & Gymnastics stands out as an ideal destination for families in Chico. What sets Kinetics apart as the premier choice for dance and gymnastics in the area? Parents rave about the impressive teachers who skillfully nurture their children's talents. Students are engaged, and every class minute is maximized, ensuring that every investment is worthwhile. The staff's kindness and compassionate approach inspire young learners, fostering a love for dance and gymnastics. It's a place where children truly feel at home. Get in touch with Kinetics at (530) 345-2505, and you'll quickly see their passion for inspiring, encouraging, and educating through dance and gymnastics. Located at 627 Broadway St., Suite 100, in Chico, Kinetics offers a nurturing environment where the whole child is taught, and a loving community fosters skill and technique growth. Follow Kinetics on social media to stay updated on camps, birthday

Chico Marketplace is the ultimate winter wonderland for families with kids! During the winter months, you can visit Santa, admire Christmas decor, and enjoy festive winter activities being planned by the events team hired to make shopping more of an innovative and fun experience that will keep things new and your family wanting to return more often. Chico Marketplace Kids Club, is geared towards children aged 4 to 11 to embark on adventures in learning through engaging activities and crafts. It's a secure environment, and kids are accompanied by adults to make it a joint adventure. The mall's climate-controlled environment is also perfect for mall walking, and the interior loop measures about 0.7 miles. You’ll see playgroups meeting, stroller exercise, and even toddlers practicing their new walking skills. Did you know that the store Claire’s offers fantastic party packages, adding an extra layer of excitement for children? Also included at the mall are various play areas, a climbing gym, a human-sized chess board, cornhole, arcade games, and coin-operated ride attractions. Winter at Chico Marketplace promises unforgettable family fun. Warm up this winter while keeping busy with engaging social activities, learning new skills, and keeping children entertained all while exploring these local gems. Please visit the websites of these places or pay them a visit in person to experience the joy and vitality that these local businesses bring to our community. Let's make this winter a season worth remembering while spending our money locally. 13

Winter 2023.indd 13

10/19/23 5:08 PM

Friends of The Chico Community Ballet & Chico Performances present

A R CKE C T U

A Very Chico

A Magical Holiday Tradition!

Performed by Chico Community Ballet and Special Guests

Thursday Friday November 30 7:00 pm

December 1 7:00 pm

Saturday Sunday ef DR. OSCAR STANSBURY ef

December 2 1:00 pm & 6:00 pm

December 3 1:00 pm 2021

Tickets: Tier A $30, Tier B $24, Tier C $17

At the University Box Office (3rd & Chestnut) or by Phone at 530-898-6333 www.chicoperformances.com

Laxson Auditorium, CSU, Chico

G R OW I N G U P C H I C O M AG A Z I N E W I N T E R 2 0 2 3

Winter 2023.indd 14

10/19/23 5:08 PM

Free tuition Free childcare before & after school Individualized Nurturing Engaging Holistic

SHERWOOD MONTESSORI Enrolling Now - Grades TK-8

Keeping Children and Families Healthy This Winter

WRITTEN BY DR. ELISA BROWN

As the holiday season approaches, something much less fun comes along with it: cold and flu season! As temperatures drop and people stay indoors, viruses are transmitted from person to person more easily, causing sniffling, sneezing, coughing, aching, stuffy heads, and fevers. Some viral infections can be dangerous, especially to vulnerable people, like young infants. Many parents have already seen a spike in illness after students returned to classrooms, and we tend to see even more as winter approaches. Don’t despair! There are steps we can all take—kids and adults—to decrease the misery of common winter illnesses. These involve preventing infection in the first place and increasing our defenses for when we can’t avoid contact with viruses. How can we prevent infection with viruses and bacteria? Wash your hands! Wash with soap and water for at least 20 seconds as frequently as possible; if no washing facilities are available, alcoholbased hand sanitizer is a good, portable alternative. Clean surfaces! Wiping down counters, handles, desks,

and other common surfaces in homes and classrooms can decrease the spread of viruses and bacteria.

(530) 345-6600 sherwoodmontessori.org 1010 Cleveland Ave., Chico, CA 95928

Stop touching your face! Keep hands away from noses, mouths, and eyes (easier for adults than kids, of course)! The less you touch your face, the less likely you will be to introduce germs to those vulnerable areas. Avoid people who are already sick, when possible. Encourage children and adults who are ill to stay home from school, work, and gatherings, especially early in their illness course. People with respiratory viral infections are often contagious 1-2 days before their symptoms start, and even more so the first few days of symptoms. This is a tough one because kids need to go to school and parents need to work; however, anyone with a fever or severe symptoms really needs to stay home, for their own health and the health of those around them. Avoid crowded places! When possible, and, for those over 2 years of age who can tolerate it, wearing a high-quality mask (N95 or KN 95) when in crowded public spaces reduces the risk of infection by airborne viruses. Keep 15

Winter 2023.indd 15

10/19/23 5:08 PM

Exercise! Physical activity boosts the immune system, elevates mood and metabolism, and helps manage stress. Stay well-hydrated! Dry membranes in the nose, mouth, and eyes have weaker defenses against infection, so drink plenty of fluids and use a cool mist humidifier if the air is dry.

babies and toddlers away from crowds and discourage close contact with large numbers of people. How can we increase our bodies’ defenses against sneaky viruses that get past our prevention strategies? Get Vaccinated! We now have immunizations against several of the nastiest winter viruses. The influenza vaccine, available as an injection (shot) or a nasal spray, is very effective at preventing hospitalization and death from flu and can help you avoid flu illness altogether. The Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP), the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), and the CDC recommend flu vaccine for everyone 6 months and older, regardless of risk status. Updated COVID-19 vaccines are being distributed at the time of this writing. COVID vaccines have been shown to protect against severe symptoms causing hospitalization and death, especially for high-risk patients. The ACIP, AAP, and CDC recommend a COVID-19 primary vaccination series or booster for everyone 6 months and older. New Respiratory Syncitial Virus (RSV) 16

vaccines for adults 60 years and older have been approved and should be widely available soon. RSV causes cold symptoms in most people, but in higher-risk patients (like the elderly and infants) it can cause severe disease. One of the vaccines can be given to pregnant mothers during 32-36 weeks gestation, to protect their babies born during RSV season; ask your OB-GYN about it. Another exciting new weapon in the fight against pediatric respiratory illness is the new RSV shot for infants! It is a monoclonal antibody with activity against RSV, given as a single injection to infants born during or entering their first RSV season. This is known as passive immunization; the laboratory-made antibody mimics the immune system’s ability to fight off the virus, decreasing the risk of severe disease. As of this writing, the new immunization, Beyfortus, is not yet available. Ask your pediatrician if it will be appropriate for your baby. Get your rest! Our immune systems function much better when we get adequate sleep. Eat healthy! A balanced, healthy diet supports immune function. Supplements can be helpful, but are not for everyone; discuss with your child’s doctor.

What if you do all these things, and your child still gets sick? Common cold symptoms can usually be handled at home, with comfort measures like saline nose drops or spray, a cool mist humidifier, warm fluids to drink, and a fever reducer/pain reliever as needed. Older children and adults can take over-the-counter cold and flu medicines; they have not proven to be helpful for preschoolers and younger. Test for COVID-19 to help prevent spreading that virus to others. If your child has more severe flu-like symptoms such as high fever and aches, see your pediatrician, as medications for influenza are most effective if taken in the first two days of symptoms. Severe cough, lethargy, difficulty breathing, or inability to keep down fluids are signs of more worrisome illness; seek medical attention right away. Cover coughs and sneezes in your elbow or with a tissue to avoid launching viruses into the air and spreading them with your hands. We learned from the pandemic that social distancing decreases the spread of infections, but we also learned that prolonged avoidance of social connection is not good for anyone, particularly for kids. Unless we live in a bubble, most of us will catch some respiratory bug at some point, but the strategies above will help decrease the risk, especially of severe illness. Best wishes for a Happy, Healthy Holiday Season for all! Elisa C. Brown, M.D., F.A.A.P. has been a board-certified pediatrician for 31 years, 28 of those in Chico, caring for kids and their families in her office practice and at the hospital. She enjoys spending time with her husband, 2 adult children, her mom, and 4 cats.

G R OW I N G U P C H I C O M AG A Z I N E W I N T E R 2 0 2 3

Winter 2023.indd 16

10/19/23 5:08 PM

Santa PhotoS & Visits • Nov. 18th–Dec. 24th

Santa ArriveS

Join us at 11AM as Santa is escorted by helicopter with the Butte County Sheriff's Office. Special gift to the 1st 100 kids waiting for Santa. Performances by Kinetics Academy of Dance following the arrival.

At Chico Marketplace Nov. 18

Make memories with photos in Santa's magical workshop daily,

TH Nov. 18th – Dec. 24th and don't miss Pet Nights Tuesday evenings in December! Find Santa hours and more event details at ShopChicoMarketplace.com and Facebook.com/ChicoMall.

Winter 2023.indd 17

10/19/23 5:08 PM

ONE: A Store of Fellowship

The Ostbergs moved to Butte County fifteen years ago to be near family and raise their children in the community they’d grown to love. In late 2016, Leif was working in customer service and said he recognized a lot of problems people go through in life may be assuaged “with a human antidote.” That was only temporary though, and he felt compelled to talk with them about Christ. Around the same time, Leif began designing his own t-shirts as he couldn’t find the apparel he wanted to wear that shared the message of Jesus and sparked 18

conversations within the community. So, he leaned on his background in graphic design and developed his own artwork based on Bible verses. The Ostbergs couldn’t find a company to press and ink the small quantities they needed, so Leif and Sabrina researched and learned the process themselves. They worked in their kitchen and later expanded into other rooms as friends and churches began asking for their designs. What began as making apparel for themselves, gradually grew organically as more and more people in the community wanted to purchase items for their families. They opened an e-commerce website in 2017 which grew into a brick-and-mortar store in July of 2023. Investing in something they believed in allowed them to create an environment where they could share their fellowship with others while making apparel that enabled them to get their message out. The store now carries much more than just

the shirts that started it all. Leif’s excited to share they have over 100 hats and 70 different shirt designs, in addition to many locally-made products. They have Bibles, books, drinkware, home decor, candles, soaps, and greeting cards—a little bit of everything. But the Ostbergs want to make sure everyone knows they aren’t just a Christian store, they’re a place of gathering. Sabrina points to a set of comfy chairs next to a coffee nook complete with coffee maker, cups, and creamers saying, “It’s a place to share fellowship, where we can have conversations that are fruitful or just be here for people if they’re going through difficult times.” Leif and Sabrina want to serve the community and take time out to share their story and listen to yours.

WRITTEN BY SHELLY BRANDON

Invest in what you believe in. That’s exactly what Leif and Sabrina Ostberg did when they started their faith-based clothing company, One. They wanted to share a message from the Bible: John 14:6, in which Jesus says, “I am the way and the truth and the life,” and that there is only one way to the Father, through Jesus.

One is located at 977 East Ave, Suite 40 and is open Sunday through Friday from 10 am to 6 pm. You can also see their products online at www.onewaytruthlife.com.

G R OW I N G U P C H I C O M AG A Z I N E W I N T E R 2 0 2 3

Winter 2023.indd 18

10/19/23 5:08 PM

Presented by

turtle bay

exploration park

Nov 17, 2023 - Jan 7, 2024 turtlebay.org | 530-242-3123 844 Sundial Bridge Dr, Redding, CA

Winter 2023.indd 19

10/19/23 5:08 PM

Why is Sleep So Important For Your Child? We all know babies and toddlers need to nap. We also know they require a good amount of nighttime sleep. Is this just so they aren’t fussy? Why do they need more sleep than us adults?

frequently! See where your child falls on the sleep chart below:

Sleep also repairs and restores the body and improves memory, learning, and behavior.

It is also important for us to pay attention to sleep TIMES. Babies and toddlers do best with early bedtimes. Typically between 7-8 pm. Earlier bedtimes result in better, more restorative sleep. Later bedtimes can cause the brain to become overstimulated and

WRITTEN BY LACEY WELKER

In order for us to prioritize sleep for our little ones, the first step is simply having the knowledge of its importance and the amount of sleep they require. Sometimes that’s the easy part! Now HOW do we optimize healthy sleep? So many factors play a role in your child’s sleep health: Daytime schedule, nutrition, naps, routines, sleep environment, and sleep habits. In the next issue, I will dive in deeper to give you some helpful sleep tips and talk more about common sleep struggles and how to solve them one by one. In the meantime, feel free to visit my website for more information on how to help your child achieve the best sleep possible.

Well, let’s break it down. At birth, your baby’s brain is a quarter the size of the average adult’s brain, and in the first year of life, the brain doubles in size. How crazy is that? By the age of five, 90% of the brain has developed. Why am I talking about brain development? Because your child’s brain develops DURING SLEEP! So, prioritizing your child’s sleep needs is imperative for those first few critical years of brain development.

How much sleep does your child need? That depends on the age. Newborns in the first couple of months require about 16 hours of sleep in a 24-hour period. Now, this is not all at once of course. Babies nap quite

overtired. An overtired baby tends to have difficulty falling asleep and may wake up more frequently throughout the night!

Lacey Welker Certified Pediatric Sleep Specialist Owner and Founder of Catching Baby Zzz www.catchingbabyzzz.com Instagram: @catchingbabyzzz

G R OW I N G U P C H I C O M AG A Z I N E W I N T E R 2 0 2 3

Winter 2023.indd 20

10/19/23 5:08 PM

Winter 2023.indd 21

10/19/23 5:08 PM

Embracing Tradition and Cultivating Connections

The Elf on the Shelf Kit: A Bundle of Festive Creativity The tradition of the Elf on the Shelf has captured the hearts of families worldwide. This mischievous little elf arrives at the beginning of December and observes children's behavior, reporting back to Santa each night. It's a charming way to encourage good behavior during the holiday season. However, coming up with new and exciting elf scenarios every night can be a challenge. That's where an “Elf Kit” comes in as a holiday hack. A local Chico Mom, Michelle Sander, has devoted herself year-round to taking on this difficult task and created quite the operation to help busy parents participate fully in this tradition. Imagine having everything you need in one box—a personalized letter to your children, detailed instructions, and a variety of 22

props and fun added accessories to create daily elf scenarios. With her kit, you save precious time on planning and shopping for elf materials. It's a one-stop solution that not only simplifies the process but also adds enchantment to your family's holiday season. This kit exceeded my expectations and embraced the spirit of the season while removing the stress. I highly recommend snagging one for yourself before they sell out. You can purchase a kit through Etsy at https://makingstuffmagical.etsy.com/ listing/1461506381

opportunity to open your home and heart to someone from a different background, offering them a glimpse into your traditions while learning about theirs. This enriches your holiday celebrations by infusing them with new customs, foods, and perspectives. On the flip side, exploring your own cultural heritage during the holidays can be equally enlightening. Researching your family's traditions and values can provide a deeper sense of connection to your roots. Perhaps there are customs, recipes, or rituals that have been passed down through generations that you can revive and

WRITTEN BY MICHAELA GULBRANSEN

The holiday season is a time of joy, togetherness and celebration, but it can also be a time of stress and financial strain. These two holiday ideas not only save time and money but also add depth and meaning to our festivities. The first involves the magical tradition of the Elf on the Shelf, while the second encourages us to embrace cultural exchange and heritage exploration.

You can email Michelle directly for a local's discount at makingstuffmagical@gmail.com Cultivating Connections Through Cultural Exchange The holiday season is a perfect time to embrace the idea of cultural exchange and heritage exploration. One powerful way to do this is by hosting an exchange student or by delving into your own cultural heritage and adopting its principles. Hosting an exchange student can be a transformative experience. It's an

G R OW I N G U P C H I C O M AG A Z I N E W I N T E R 2 0 2 3

Winter 2023.indd 22

10/19/23 5:08 PM

incorporate into your celebrations. We eat æbleskiver on Christmas Eve. This is a traditional Danish dish that is made in a special pan. In my family you receive this pan when you get married, and you are given the recipe when you have your first child. The name literally means "apple slices" in Danish, although apples are not usually an ingredient in our family preference. Some people put them in the center while cooking. Our family uses a secret spice in the batter but prefer to eat them with powdered sugar, warm maple syrup, homemade apple sauce, and sausages from Chico State Meats Lab. The texture is similar to a European pancake but with a light and fluffy center. My favorite thing about the dish is eating it with family and the nostalgic feeling it provides. It wouldn’t feel like Christmas without them. This tradition was started by my grandma and will be alive in our home for years to come. You can find the full æbleskiver recipe on page 28! As you can see, these holiday hacks go beyond mere time and money-saving strategies. They encapsulate the essence of the season - bringing joy, magic, and connection into our lives. The Elf on the Shelf kit adds whimsy to our holiday traditions, simplifying the process while preserving the enchantment. Exploring cultural heritage opens doors to new experiences and fosters a deeper understanding of the world around us. These hacks are not just practical; they are exciting ways to make the holiday season more special and meaningful for everyone involved. So, this holiday season, let us hack into the true spirit of celebration and nostalgia.

Winter 2023.indd 23

10/19/23 5:08 PM

teaching kindergarten big time, and today he is all in. “I realized my role at the K level is that I’m the kids’ first introduction to education. I want them to want to come to school.” On the wall of his classroom is the saying, “I Can Do It!” He said, “Within two weeks the whole class is saying, ‘I can do it!’ when presented with a challenge.” He added, “Kindergarten is super joyful.” Another talent of Oberlander’s is singing. He has played locally with music groups, but he is especially proud of his collaborations with guitarist Loki Miller. Obe took a break from performing, but he recently appeared at the Secret Trails Brewing Company open mic night. “I feel my bliss when I’m singing in front of people,” he said. He credits a former high school teacher with giving him the confidence to perform. “A teacher heard me sing, and he told me I needed to join The Eagleaires, our local school choir. I did and singing is now a big part of me.” He and his wife, Kelly, now sing with the North Valley Chamber Chorale. In his “spare” time, Obe coaches track at Chico Senior High, a job he finds is a big contrast to working with kindergartners but just as rewarding. Additionally, he is the director of the Sacramento Valley Scholastic Chess League, the 9th largest scholastic league in the country. They bring kids from Yuba City to Corning together to play in competitive tournaments once a month.

One aspect of the teaching profession is that teachers are seldom just teachers. This is certainly true of local educator Steve “Obe” Oberlander. To be sure, he is a teacher, but he is also a musician, an actor, a coach, a chess club director, and a dedicated family man. You’d have to say he’s a local “Renaissance Man.” Oberlander taught first grade at Neal Dow 24

Elementary School in Chico for 17 years, a grade level he grew to love. “Fifth graders were the best! I really enjoyed teaching that level,” he said. However, due to a Chico Unified rule that teachers can be placed where they are needed, Obe found himself assigned to kindergarten. “At first, I resisted the idea, but I’m a positive person, so I decided to make the best of it,” he said. Obe bought into

WRITTEN BY TIM MILHORN

Teacher Spotlight: Steve Oberlander

The newest addition to Oberlander’s family is his granddaughter, Aurora. “What a difference she has made in our lives,” he said. “She is the love of my life.” He plans on introducing her to the guitar when she grows up a bit. “I’m so grateful to have my wife and our children Johnny, Janice, Kelsey, and Heather,” he said. “My life has been wonderful so far,” he added. “My goal in life is to help kids touch the future and make them believe they can do whatever they want. My family helps me do that every day.”

G R OW I N G U P C H I C O M AG A Z I N E W I N T E R 2 0 2 3

Winter 2023.indd 24

10/19/23 5:08 PM

Winter 2023.indd 25

10/19/23 5:08 PM

Holiday Shopping Made Easy We all know shopping for gifts during the holidays can be a difficult and time-consuming task. Between juggling hectic schedules, unexpected weather, and the additional commitments this time of year offers, it can certainly feel daunting. While visiting some of our favorite small businesses in Butte County over the past few weeks, we took a few minutes at each one to find an item or two that we felt would make the perfect gift this holiday season. Regardless of age or preference, there's something here for everyone, and we hope our picks inspire you to visit some of these small businesses yourself and shop local this year.

Mandalorian's The Child Plush Toy @Bat Comics

The Very Brave Lion Book and Plushie @TinyHinies

Natural Life Coloring Book @Bless Your Heart Mercantile

Warmies @Kat's Meow

Dinner Winner Dinner Tray @Kusel's Big Store

Freeze Dried Candies @Sweet Chico

Apple Blossom Baby 1356 Longfellow Ave, Chico Bat Comics 218 Broadway St, Chico Bird in Hand 320 Broadway St, Chico Bird Street Vendors 1934 Bird St, Oroville Bless Your Heart Mercantile 701 4th St, Orland Kat's Meow 138 W 3rd St, Chico Kusel's Big Store 1858 Montgomery St, Oroville Learning Express 605 Mangrove Ave Suite 140, Chico Sweet Chico 121 W 3rd St, Chico Three Little Birds 708 4th St, Orland TinyHinies 1977 Montgomery St, Oroville Tomfoolery 126GW 3rd 26 R OW I N GSt, U P Chico C H I C O M AG A Z I N E W I N T E R 2 0 2 3

Winter 2023.indd 26

10/19/23 5:08 PM

Bitzee Pet @Learning Express

Dohzee Glob @Bird In Hand

Sophie La Girafe Teether @Apple Blossom Baby

Squishmallows @Learning Express

Dr. Stem V8 Model Engine Kit @Three Little Birds

3D Wooden Clownfish Puzzle @Tomfoolery

Green Toys Tractor @Three Little Birds

Sock Monkey Hand Knitted Hat @Bird Street Vendors

Solar Bot 14-in-1 Educational Kit 27 @Bird In Hand

Winter 2023.indd 27

10/19/23 5:08 PM

Michaela's Æbleskiver Bites There's something incredibly special about passing down family traditions. It all began with my Grandma Kathleen, whose love for the æbleskiver—delightful Danish pancake balls—set the stage for a cherished tradition in our family. My mom, Christina, upon marrying into the family, took the tradition and added her own magic, infusing new life into the recipe. With a touch of modernization and innovative

variations, she turned a simple treat into a family legacy. The nostalgic aroma of æbleskiver cooking evokes memories of generations gathered in the kitchen, sharing stories, and savoring these delicious morsels. This family recipe adapts, evolves, and continues to bring joy and connection, bridging the past and the future with the love that goes into each bite.

Æbleskiver Ingredients (don't forget to purchase an Æbleskiver pan) - 3 eggs, separated - 2 Tbsp. sugar

- ½ tsp. salt - 2 cups buttermilk

- 2 cups flour - 1 tsp. baking soda

- 1 tsp baking powder - confectioner's sugar

Directions Beat egg yolks until light and lemon colored. Add sugar, salt, and buttermilk; mix well. Sift together flour, baking soda, and baking powder; add to egg mixture. Beat egg whites until stiff. Fold into batter. Place a small amount of shortening in each cup of Ebleskiver Pan and fill 2/3 full with batter. Cook over medium heat until bubbly; turn carefully with fork and finish baking on other side. Turn each ebleskiver several times during baking to ensure thorough baking. If desired, a very thin slice of raw apple can be pressed into batter in each cup before turning. Serve with butter and syrup, jam, brown sugar, or sprinkle lightly with confectioner's sugar.

G R OW I N G U P C H I C O M AG A Z I N E W I N T E R 2 0 2 3

Winter 2023.indd 28

10/19/23 5:08 PM

COMMUNITY CALENDAR Check out all of the great things we have to look forward to this winter! Please note that dates and times are subject to change.

ONGOING Kids Tumbling Class @ Paradise Stronger | 6848 Skyway, Ste. P, Paradise Every Monday and Wednesday 3:30-4:20pm Ages 4-12. Tumbling classes utilize an array of movements, exercises and stretches to help kids improve muscle strength, and flexibility. Youth Climbing Team @ Terrain Park | 931 W 5th St, Chico Tuesdays and Thursdays 5-7pm Terrain Park’s Climbing Team is a great way for kids to climb and progress under the instruction of an experienced staff member. This is an after school program that runs month-to-month. Our teams learn how to climb basic bouldering routes, techniques for warming up, cooling down, and so much more. Farmers Markets: Chico - North Valley Plaza 801 East Ave. - Wednesdays, 7:30am-12pm Chico - Downtown Chico Lot at E. 2nd St and Wall St. - 7:30am-1pm Oroville Convention Center Lot, 1200 Myers St. - Saturdays, 8am-12pm Afternoon Kids Club @ Oroville Library | 1820 Mitchell Ave, Oroville Every Wednesday 3:30-4pm Looking for a great way to spend an afternoon? Join your friends for awesome games, LEGOs, and more. Each week is a different activity at the Oroville branch of the Butte County Library Kids N Kitties @ Chico Cat Cafe | 1725 Esplanade, Chico Wednesdays through December 13, 11am-12pm Because our cats believe in practice and developing good habits, Chico Cat Cafe is hosting their furrst Kids N Kitties Storytime! They are eager to listen to youngsters Ages 2-5 read to them AND listen to the kiddos be read TO as they play around their feet. Early Bird Skate @ Cal Skate | 2465 Carmichael Dr, Chico Wednesdays, 12:30-2:30pm Join us for our Early Bird Skate. Perfect for homeschoolers, youngsters and anyone that wants to get a skate in before all the kids get out of school. Admission includes a quad skate rental. Movies at the Chico Library 1108 Sherman Ave Chico Thursdays 3-6pm Watch a free movie at the Chico Library! All ages welcome. Movie selections are posted in the building.

Downtown Oroville First Fridays | Every First Friday Explore Downtown Oroville’s shops and restaurants during the monthly First Friday events hosted by the Downtown Oroville Business Association! During these themed events, select shops keep their doors open later and invite you to enjoy a night of shopping and festivities! Held from 4–8 pm. The Making of a Queen Honeybee Discovery Center | 501 Walker St, Orland Every first Friday, 3-6pm and first Saturday 10am-1pm Come take part in an immersive learning experience where guests can see up close how queens are made, using experience from beekeepers who have been nurturing colonies of bees for more than 100 years. Chico Friends of the Library Book Sale | 1108 Sherman Ave Chico Every Saturday, 9-11am Come to the Chico Library and stock up on great reads for the home or to fill your favorite Little Free Library. Chess Club | Every Saturday Chico and Paradise Libraries Challenge your mind and enjoy the game of chess. Chico Chess Club is from 10:30am-noon and Paradise Chess Club is from 11am-4 in their respective libraries. Battle your friends and family for the ultimate bragging rights. Community Resource Room Every 2nd and 4th Saturday of the month Come out for free basic art supplies (paint, glue, paper, and more), learning materials, activity ideas, and premade resource kits. Open to all; no registration required. Check our calendar for sites, between Gridley, Oroville and Chico, at www.valleyoakchildren.org/home/calendar Movies at the Oroville Library | 1820 Mitchell Ave, Oroville Every Saturday beginning November 11th, 1-4pm Watch a free movie at the Oroville Library! All ages welcome. Movie selections are posted in the building.

NOVEMBER

Free Admission to Gateway Science Museum | 625 Esplanade, Chico November 3rd, 11am-4pm Join us for Free First Fridays and visit the Gateway Science Museum. Share a laugh at the Comedy Wildlife Photography Awards Exhibit. Dozens of animal friends are caught being clumsy, expressive, surprised and a bit random. From an ill-tempered turtle to a sleepy gorilla, these photos bring a smile to everyone’s face. Learn about bees in the Bombus! Exhibit and watch live fossil preparation and chat with our Scientists in Residence during our Fossil Fridays from 12-3! 29

Winter 2023.indd 29

10/19/23 5:08 PM

Salmon Spawning Floating Classroom 5 Table Mountain Boulevard November 4th & 11th, 1-3pm Float the river with salmon scientists and see and learn about the importance of Spring Run Chinook Salmon in the Feather River and the close relationship with Butte Creek Spring Run. Includes return shuttle to the fish hatchery after the tour. Please arrive 10 minutes early ~ Tours leave promptly! All minors must be accompanied by parent or legal guardian Tickets at http://www. buttecreek.org Wildlife Sanctuary Visits 4995 Durham-Pentz Rd., Oroville Tuesdays and Saturdays 9am-5pm Equal parts wildlife sanctuary, educational park, and research center, the Barry Kirshner Wildlife Sanctuary is home to a remarkable assortment of non-releasable, wild, and exotic animals, many of them endangered species. Downtown Oroville Historic Walking Tours Saturday November 4th 3-7pm Step back in time and discover the rich history of Oroville on the first Saturday of every month with your guide, Daniel Ballard. Daniel, a member of the Butte County Historical Society has been serving as a docent and collecting stories from local historians since the age of 15. Walking tours are free to the public, but tipping is encouraged. Pride & Prejudice @ First St. Theater 139 W. 1st. St., Chico November 10th, 7pm | 11th, 2pm and 7pm | 12th, 2pm Inspire School of Arts and Sciences presents Pride & Prejudice. Inspire’s production celebrates theatricality and absurdity, and features fastpaced and energetic staging that will keep you entertained from beginning to end. Whether you’re a longtime fan of the novel or discovering Pride & Prejudice for the first time, you won’t want to miss the wit and resilience of Elizabeth Bennet, the brooding charm of Mr. Darcy, and the hilarious antics of Mrs. Bennet, Mr. Collins, Lydia, Mary, and more, brought to life in this heartwarming and hilarious production. North State Symphony - Swan Lake Laxson Auditorium | 400 W. 1st St., Chico Saturday November 11th, 7:30-11pm, Sunday, November 12th, 2pm The season takes off with the elegant and unforgettable melodies of Tchaikovsky’s Swan Lake suite, a timeless tale of love and transformation. The winners of the 2023 Young Artist Auditions are also showcased in works by Mozart, Puccini, and Strauss Jr. 30

Super Science | 1968 E 8th St, Chico Friday November 17th, 6:30-8pm Calling all young scientists and curious minds! Embark on a journey of discovery with our exciting and hands-on science experiments. Join us in the lab as we explore the world around us through science. These quirky and hands on experiments will give your kids further insight into how the world works, all while having so much FUN! There is a $5 per child supply fee payable to the instructor upon arrival. These labs will meet at the Chico Creek Nature Center science lab and classes range from an hour to an hour and a half, with flexible end times. This is not a drop-off program, and all children must be accompanied by a responsible adult. Bros and Babies @ Allies Pub 426 Broadway St Ste 130, Chico Saturday November 18th, 5-7pm The Allies Pub is the perfect place for dads and their kids to hang out, talk, commiserate & bond. 3rd Saturday of every month. Santa Arrives! | Chico Marketplace 1950 E 20th St, Chico November 18th-December 24th Join us at 11 a.m. as Santa is escorted by helicopter with the Butte County Sheriff 's Office. Special gift to the 1st 100 kids waiting for Santa. Performances by Kinetics Academy of Dance following the arrival. Make memories with photos in Santa's magical workshop daily, and don't miss Pet Nights Tuesday evenings in December! Find Santa hours and more details at ShopChicoMarketplace.com and Facebook.com/ChicoMall. A Very Chico Nutcracker Laxson Auditorium | 400 W. 1st St., Chico November 30th - December 3rd, times vary Back by popular demand, Chico Community Ballet’s newly envisioned and Chico unique: A Very Chico “Nutcracker” returns to the stage. Based on the traditional “Nutcracker” ballet and infused with rich Chico history, journey back in time to the magical night before Christmas at the home of Dr. Oscar Stansbury’s family, where their daughter Angeline receives a most mysterious gift that sparks a wondrous adventure.

DECEMBER

Paradise Symphony Holiday in Paradise Paradise Performing Arts Center 777 Nunnely Rd., Paradise Saturday, December 2nd, 7-9:30pm and Sunday, December 3rd, 3-5:30pm Ring in the holidays with The Paradise Symphony Orchestra, The Paradise Community Chorus, and

G R OW I N G U P C H I C O M AG A Z I N E W I N T E R 2 0 2 3

Winter 2023.indd 30

10/19/23 5:08 PM

favorite Ridge groups in the annual collaboration that has become a tradition. In addition to the talented groups, the audience will have the opportunity to add their voices in a sing-along. Nochebuena: A Christmas Spectacular Laxson Auditorium | 400 W. 1st St., Chico Sunday, December 10th, 2-5pm and 7:30-10pm In Mexico, Christmas is not just a single day, but a whole season of Christmas-related celebrations. Today, the Christmas traditions in Mexico are a blend of indigenous culture, Spanish heritage, and many influences. On Nochebuena (Christmas Eve), it is tradition for Mexican families to attend midnight mass before returning home to a latenight feast that includes foods like bacalao, ham, turkey, tamales, and mole, with ponche to drink and lots of music! Gifts are not usually given at this time, but this is changing with increasing cultural influence from the USA. Santa Claus has started coming to Mexico! In this concert, we’ll go through some of the traditions that people in Mexico celebrate during Christmas time, but keep in mind that many of these customs and their celebration vary across region to region. Many of them are also changing with the influence of other cultures (most notably that of the United States). Avenue Of Lights @ Glenn County Fairgrounds 221 E Yolo St, Orland Wednesday, December 13th - Sunday, December 17th, 5:30-9pm The Avenue of Lights is a drive thru light show featuring over a mile of beautiful Christmas scenes and thousands of twinkling lights all viewed from the safety and comfort of your own vehicle. Fair staff and volunteers work countless hours to bring this recognized event to the North State. Christmas scenes include everything from Santa and his sleigh to nativity scenes! It does not get more Christmas-y than that! Be sure to stop in at the North Pole Lodge, have your picture taken with Santa. The North Pole Lodge will also feature Christmas Trees decorated by local businesses. Some favorite concession stands from the fair are also back by popular demand. If you missed getting your favorite fair food earlier this year, be sure to come through the drive thru and visit Milos offering corn dogs, fries, and other favorite treats daily. Do not miss Funnel Cake Express slinging out your favorite delicious desserts. Gingerbread House Building Class Paradise Stronger | 6848 Skyway, Ste. P, Paradise Friday, December 15th Celebrate the holiday season with the 'Gingerbread House Building Class,' a youthfocused event brought to you by 'Moms of the Ridge.' This delightful class is scheduled for Friday, December 15th, from 5:30 to 8:00 p.m.

at Paradise Stronger, located at 6848 Skyway, Suite P in Paradise. For a fee of just $10 per kit, participants will receive all the necessary materials to construct their very own gingerbread houses. It's a wonderful opportunity for young individuals to come together, unleash their creativity, and enjoy the holiday spirit. Join in for an evening filled with festive fun and the joy of crafting. This event promises to create lasting holiday memories for all who attend! Super Science | 1968 E 8th St, Chico Friday December 15th, 6:30-8pm Calling all young scientists and curious minds! Embark on a journey of discovery with our exciting and hands-on science experiments. Join us in the lab as we explore the world around us through science. These quirky and hands on experiments will give your kids further insight into how the world works, all while having so much FUN! There is a $5 per child supply fee payable to the instructor upon arrival. These labs will meet at the Chico Creek Nature Center science lab and classes range from an hour to an hour and a half, with flexible end times. This is not a drop-off program, and all children must be accompanied by a responsible adult. Northern California Ballet presents the Nutcracker @ Paradise Performing Arts Center 777 Nunneley Rd, Paradise December 15-17 Friday 7:15pm, Saturday 2:15pm and 7:15pm, Sunday 2:15pm Join for a night of tradition and wonder. Since 1983, NCB has produced such ballet classics as Coppélia, Petrouchka, Sleeping Beauty, La Sylphide, Cinderella, Giselle, The Nutcracker, A Midsummer Night’s Dream, Don Quixote, Romeo and Juliet, and Dracula. Local and regional dancers are encouraged to audition for placement in the company’s performances. A timeless holiday tradition based on the story by E.T.A Hoffmann, performed by the company of Northern California Ballet, is a classic to be shared with your family for years to come. Game On! at the Oroville Library Wednesdays and Fridays beginning December 20th, 3:30-4:30pm Come to the Oroville Branch to play board games, including Above and Below, Exploding Kittens, Game of Cat & Mouth, Munchkin, One Night Ultimate Daybreak, Railroad Inc Challenge, Sagrada, Sushi Go Party.

JANUARY

See ongoing events To list your events on our calendar, email events@growingupchico.com 31

Winter 2023.indd 31

10/19/23 5:08 PM

G R OW I N G U P C H I C O M AG A Z I N E W I N T E R 2 0 2 3

Winter 2023.indd 32

10/19/23 5:08 PM