FROM THE PUBLISHER
I often find myself reminiscing about years long since passed when my most important concern was making sure I took the right set of video games to my friend’s house for the afternoon. Life was carefree back then, and although it
UPGRADED LIVING STAFF
seemed like school was a neverending giant looming overhead, times were far more simple. The topic has come up in conversation multiple times over the past few weeks, and from what I gather, I’m not alone in the sentiment.
Aveed Khaki PUBLISHER/OWNER
As time travel is not yet an option, it’s been fun to relive those years vi-
Erin Wenham EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
cariously. At thirty-one, most of my friends have school-aged children running around the house each time we meet up for dinner, and their excitement for getting back to school after summer — or going to school for the first time — is absolutely contagious. They all have big plans for the upcoming school year and they refuse to return your ear until you’ve heard them all; I’ve learned my lesson against attempting otherwise.
In this issue, we attempt to capture that same back-to-school feeling with
Jason Corona
Michelle Camy
SALES DIRECTOR
PHOTOGRAPHER
Darren Michels
Frank Rebelo
PRODUCT INTEGRATION & MOBILITY STRATEGY
PHOTOGRAPHER Matthew Manfredi
features that are, perhaps, more in tune with our current lives. From a profile
Alyssa Worley
on Nord School, the oldest school in Butte County, to a focus piece on a work
WRITER
experience program for high school students, the back to school vibe is clearly evident this month. A piece on the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute proves that
WRITER Kacey Gardner
Russell Van Dewark
WRITER/EDITOR
DISTRIBUTION
continued education is timeless and valuable regardless of age. Erin Lizardo
On a more personal level, I’ve had the pleasure of watching Upgraded Liv-
ART DIRECTOR
ing grow over the past two years at somewhat of an arm’s length while I’ve worked on building Formal Education and Syllabus,
CONTRIBUTORS
my two clothing stores in Downtown Chico. Returning to work on this issue of the magazine while our intrepid Editor-in-Chief, Erin Wenham, took off for her much anticipated maternity leave, revived some of that backto-school spirit that I have missed so much. I
Alexa Benson-Valavanis
Windchime of Chico
PHILANTHROPY
ASSISTED LIVING
Scott & Jill Ogborn
Dr. Vimali Paul, M.D.
BEAUTY Q&A
SKIN CARE
Sherry Wirt, RN
Annabelle Pearl
YOUR HEALTH
COOL KID
hope that this issue brings you the same!
As always, thank you for your continued readership. We’ll look forward to seeing you
Aveed Khaki Publisher
out in the community!
For advertising or editorial inquiries, please contact Upgraded Living at (530) 894-8091 Sales@UpgradedLiving.com
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UPGRADEDLIVING.COM AUGUST 2015
Renee Michel & Joe Sweeney
Lauren Mesa
FINANCE
ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT
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䘀漀爀 礀漀甀爀 挀漀渀瘀攀渀椀攀渀挀攀Ⰰ 漀甀爀 漀瀀琀椀挀愀氀 椀猀 漀瀀攀渀 昀爀漀洀 愀洀 ⴀ ㌀瀀洀 漀渀 匀愀琀甀爀搀愀礀猀⸀ 倀氀攀愀猀攀 挀愀氀氀 昀漀爀 搀攀琀愀椀氀猀⸀ UPGRADEDLIVING.COM AUGUST 2015
䘀漀爀 礀漀甀爀 挀漀渀瘀攀渀椀攀渀挀攀Ⰰ 眀攀 渀漀眀 栀愀瘀攀 吀甀攀猀搀愀礀 攀瘀攀渀椀渀最 挀氀椀渀椀挀⸀ 倀氀攀愀猀攀 挀愀氀氀 昀漀爀 搀攀琀愀椀氀猀⸀
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FormalEducation.com
PHOTO ERIN WENHAM
BY ALYSSA WORLEY PHOTOS COURTESY OF BRIDES AGAINST BREAST CANCER
COOL KID Shane Thomas Each morning, the sun rises, spreading light and warmth below. Each night, the sun sets, creating a spectacular glow of colors and patterns. The sun does not know of its impact on the world; it only knows of its path east to west every day. Shane Thomas is a leader and an inspiration. Shane began attending the Boys & Girls Club of the North Valley in eighth grade. The Boys & Girls Club is an organization that aims to inspire and enable young people to become responsible, productive, and caring citizens. A couple years later he started volunteering because the club became such an important part of his life. As a staff member, his work at the Boys & Girls Club includes a big leadership role and mentoring other kids. “My favorite thing about the club is all the opportunities and programs they offer,” Shane stated enthusiastically. Besides all the opportunities available for young people, the Boys & Girls Club teaches life skills to their members. Shane says, “the club has taught me how to become a positive member in the community and about working hard.” Shane is extremely dedicated and passionate about volunteer work and working with the Boys & Girls Club. His hard work was acknowledged when he was nominated as 2014 Youth of the Year, an international award that honors a member with achievements in leadership and academics. Preparations after preparations, speech after speech, and judge after judge, Shane was awarded Youth of the Year! “I felt so
COOL KID
VIA
honored when I was awarded Youth of the Year,” he said as he recalled the amazing memory. But winning this fantastic award was not the sunset in Shane’s spectrum of leadership—it was only the sunrise. Shane began speaking to different organizations throughout Butte County about the Boys & Girls Club. This experience has been life changing for Shane. He has developed public speaking skills and leadership skills he did not know he was capable of. Throughout his time volunteering for the club and being awarded Youth of the Year, Shane’s biggest inspiration has been his grandparents. They have taken care of him and have passed down virtues and skills that have shaped him into the caring, confident, and courageous person he is today. The Boys & Girls Club has also been a huge part of his life, helping him get a job, with public speaking, and school leadership. These inspirations have given him light and hope throughout his life. Shane Thomas is an incredible teenager. When he began attending the Boys & Girls Club, he did not know the journey the program would take him on. With the help and encouragement of the club and his grandparents, Shane has become an inspiration to so many people! The sun rises each day, shining light in the world even when there is no more sunshine. Although he did not realize what he could be capable of, Shane’s light and leadership have touched the hearts of so many.
ANNABELLE PEARL
Annabelle Pearl writes about cool kids each month and at 15 years old she is our youngest writer and quite the cool kid herself! Find Annabelle Pearl on Facebook to suggest cool kids you’d like to shine the spotlight on.
Caring Dentistry from Toddler to Teen Years Dr. Kimberly Lange, DDS General Dentist
650 RIO LINDO AVE. #4, CHICO 343-3137
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A 10-YEAR JOURNEY
THE CURTAIN’S UP ON MAESTRO SCOTT SEATON! Please join us for a concert this season as we raise the curtain on our new Music Director, Scott Seaton! Single tickets to Laxson Auditorium concerts are available August 8th! University Box Office: 530-898-6333 www.northstatesymphony.org
Annie B’s Community Drive
It was just about the same time that NASA launched the space shuttle
IMPACT OF LAST YEAR’S ANNIE B’S COMMUNITY DRIVE Total dollar amount raised:
$1,571,000 Total number of participating charities:
250 Percentage grant from Annie B’s:
7% on top of each donation Total number of donations made:
~ 5,000 individual gifts made
New Horizons to journey to the back side of Pluto that two beautiful humans walked into my office and pitched an idea for a community-wide grant program. That was nine and a half years ago. As I’ve explored the new images of Pluto this week, I’ve been struck by the commitment necessary to take a journey, any journey, for almost a decade. For the North Valley Community Foundation, the journey wasn’t about traveling billions of miles to uncharted edges of our solar system. But, wow! Instead, our decade-long journey through uncharted territory was something called Annie B’s. Annie B’s was the first of its kind community-wide fundraising drive in this region. During its first eight years Annie B’s raised more than $8 million for local, national, and international charitable causes. Through the support of hundreds of charitable causes Annie B’s helped stir the hearts and souls of thousands of individuals, families, and businesses to give. We have learned so much during this journey. We learned so much about ourselves but also about this beautiful and diverse region. We’ve witnessed the incredible service and dedication of community members to causes that support people in need, the animals, the environment and much more. Although we didn’t discover snow on a dwarf planet far, far away, we have discovered a level of generosity that may be the greatest of any community in this solar system. That may sound grandiose, but I can tell you firsthand, building and running Annie B’s for the past nine years has been one of the most heartening experiences of my life. I have always believed in the goodness of people, but our capacity to give, and give, and then give more, has been overwhelming. And, not just money. We give far more than that. As we move into our final two years of the Annie B’s journey, it just seems a perfect time to thank all of you who have made the Community Drive possible. I truly hope Annie B’s will be remembered as a powerful 10-year journey – one which proved that we are stronger, so much stronger, together! Alexa Benson-Valavanis, CEO or NVCF
HOW TO GET INVOLVED:
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From August 1st - September 30th, donations to Annie B’s charities can be made through North Valley Community Foundation. Donate online by visiting www.NVCF.org. To donate by mail, make check(s) payable to “Annie B’s/charity name” and send to: North Valley Community Foundation 240 Main Street, Suite 260, Chico, CA 95928
UPGRADEDLIVING.COM AUGUST 2015
Habitat for Humanity of Butte County buttehabitat.org
The Chico Creek Nature Center bidwellpark.org
Walk Woof Wag walkwoofwag.com
Museum of Northern California Art (monca) monca.org
North Valley Chamber Chorale northvalleychamberchorale.org
Forest Ranch Charter School forestranchcharter.org
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UPGRADEDLIVING.COM AUGUST 2015
WHO THEY ARE Habitat for Humanity of Butte County brings people together to build homes, communities, and hope. Habitat helps families to help themselves and invests in the community by enabling low income families to purchase a home that they can afford. YOUR DONATION Donations will be used to fund the construction of two Habitat homes on East 11th Street in Chico. 100% of all donations go directly towards home construction. During the Annie B’s Drive, you can donate on-line to Habitat for Humanity of Butte County (HFHBC) at nvcf.org. If you prefer, you can mail a check to Annie B’s/HFHBC to NVCF.
WHO THEY ARE Sharing the wonder of Bidwell Park, where there is always more to explore. The Chico Creek Nature Center is the official visitor information center for Bidwell Park and is proud to provide numerous services to the community, including camps, field trips, guided hikes & Project WILD. YOUR DONATION Donations will be used for the Bidwell Park Information Center, Alice Hecker Native Plant Garden & Fresh Water Pond, animal care and feeding, Project WILD workshops, Nature Play Room, Camp Chico Creek scholarships, as well as hikes and field trips throughout Bidwell Park. Donations can be made in Bidwell Park at 1968 E 8th Street in Chico, via phone at 891-4671, or online at bidwellpark.org. WHO THEY ARE Creators Sarah Richardson, of Canine Connection, and Bryce Velasco, a CUSD leadership student, came together to create this event so that stray and surrendered animals could get the medical care they deserve. YOUR DONATION All donations and net proceeds are dedicated to Chico Animal Shelter’s medical fund to provide veterinary treatment to animals in need. Our annual walk is our big fund raising event, however we gladly accept donations throughout the year which are given directly to the Animal Shelter’s medical fund. For more information about our mission, visit walkwoofwag.com. WHO THEY ARE The mission of the Museum of Northern California Art is to make art accessible and promote awareness of Northern California artists through collections, exhibitions, and educational programs. We create pop-up museums, visit schools as Driving Docents and participate in community events. YOUR DONATION Donations through the Annie B’s Campaign will be used to transform the iconic 1927 Veteren’s Memorial Hall into an interactive and exciting art museum and community space. Donations to monca can be made by check to Annie B’s/monca and mailed to 900 Esplanade, Chico, CA 95926, or made online at monca.org. WHO THEY ARE The North Valley Chamber Chorale is a vocal ensemble whose goal is to bring the highest quality choral music to the North State through exceptional performances, providing its members and audiences with musically rewarding and enjoyable experiences. YOUR DONATION Donations will go toward music purchasing, rental of performance and rehearsal space, hiring of accompanist and instrumentalists, promotional materials, program printing, video and audio recording technicians, honorariums to recital performers. Visit our website at northvalleychamberchorale.org or call 530-592-6248 for information on sponsorship. WHO THEY ARE Forest Ranch Charter School is a free, public K-8 charter school located in a beautiful forested setting in the foothills 13 miles east of Chico. Our small size and intimate setting provide a safe and supportive learning environment rich in elective, art, and science exploration options. YOUR DONATION Donations of time, supplies, and funds are needed. Funds are used to support our educational program, providing adequate facilities and electives, fine art, music, field trips, outdoor science education, scholarships for sports, and overnight educational experiences. Donations can be made via phone at 530-891-3154, or online at forestranchcharter.org.
WHO THEY ARE The 106-year-old Veatch Building, home of the Gridley Museum, has been successfully renovated upstairs with donations received from the community as well as Annie B’s. The first three rooms completed include offices for a physician, dentist and attorney. YOUR DONATION The donations will help with ongoing improvements to preserve Gridley’s history. The Museum is primarily supported by memberships and donations from people interested in the history of the Gridley Area and is open to all. The Museum is not a recipient of any government funding. All checks can be made out to: Annie B’s/Gridley Museum 240 Main Street, Suite 260, Chico, CA 95928.
Gridley Museum Corporation gridleymuseum.com
WHO THEY ARE Crisis Text Line: discreet, accessible, familiar. We lost Alex to suicide, the 3rd leading cause of death for young people. Alex was more comfortable texting than talking on the phone. Had he known about the CTL he might still be alive today. CTL is free 24/7/365. If you need help text LISTEN to 741741. YOUR DONATION All funds that are donated to The Alex Project are used in the following three ways: 1. To raise awareness regarding existing crisis text lines. 2. Supporting the pioneering work of crisis centers with text messaging counselors. 3. Sponsoring youth suicide prevention events. For more info about donating please call: 530-891-1150, extension 28.
AlexProject.org
Butte Parent Cafe facebook.com/butteparentcafe
OLLI: SUPPORTING THE PURSUIT OF LIFELONG LEARNING It’s never too late to learn something new. That’s the idea behind California State University, Chico’s Osher Lifelong Learning Institute (OLLI), an educational program for people of age “50 and better.” With locations in Chico, Oroville, Paradise, and Willows, OLLI offers a unique way to explore new topics, discuss current events, make
OLLI members take the stage during the OLLI Play Festival in June at the Blue Room Theater.
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UPGRADEDLIVING.COM AUGUST 2015
WHO THEY ARE The Butte Parent Café is an opportunity for a family night out: we provide FREE dinner and childcare for all who attend. We strive to connect children, families and the community through guided conversations based on the Five Protective Factors in a fun, low key environment. YOUR DONATION Your generous donation will ensure the Butte Parent Café can continue to provide healthy meals to families at our events. We work to strengthen families and provide them with community resources to stay strong. Families receive the opportunity to participate in our incentive programs, early learning and literacy, assistance with back to school supplies, and assistance with other basic necessities.
new friends, and take day trips to theaters, gardens, and museums. OLLI’s peer-led courses are in a wide variety of subjects, including traditional areas of study and new areas of knowledge, without exams or grades. The Bernard Osher Foundation was established in 1977 by Bernard Osher, a San Francisco businessman and community leader, who perceived that the needs of mature students were not well served by traditional continuing education programs. The foundation supports the strengthening of existing lifelong learning programs, as well as the creation of new ones, at colleges and universities across the country. The foundation began its support of such programs in 2001 with grants to Sonoma State University in California and the University of Southern Maine at Portland. In 2005, CSU, Chico joined the network of Osher Lifelong Learning Institutes and its existing learning-in-retirement program became known as the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute at California State University, Chico. In 2007, the foundation awarded OLLI at CSU, Chico a $1 million endowment gift for programming
MORE INFO
excellence and for demonstrating potential for longterm success and sustainability, and a second $1 million endowment gift was awarded in December 2014. Open enrollment for the fall 2015 semester of OLLI courses is just around the corner, with registration opening on August 20 at 9 a.m. and classes starting September 8. There are more than 100 classes lined up for the term in Chico, Paradise, and Oroville.
YOU’RE INVITED! Bring family and friends to the OLLI Fall Open House and Class Previews. Visit with other OLLI members, preview upcoming courses, and meet the instructors. Chico Class Preview August 12, 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. Chico Masonic Family Center 1110 W. East Ave., Chico Oroville and Paradise Class Preview August 19, 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. Butte County Library 1820 Mitchell Avenue, Oroville
For additional information, visit the OLLI website, rce.csuchico.edu/osher, or call the office at 530-898-6679.
BY KACEY GARDNER PHOTOS COURTESY OF OLLI
The Alex Project
FAIR VIEW HIGH SCHOOL
EWEX Program
BY KACEY GARDNER PHOTOS COURTESY OF OLLI
Chico is full of people who, when they see a need in the community, set their minds to meeting it. Oftentimes, it’s just a case of happenstance — the right person being in the right place at the right time. But sometimes it works out so well for everyone that you almost have to think it was meant to be. About a year and a half ago, Chico State grad student Krystal Merlo-Erickson began volunteering at Fair View High School as a career mentor with the Junior Leadership Development Program. She’s completing her master’s in behavioral and social sciences and has an interest in becoming a career mentor or academic advisor, so when she heard about the opportunity to volunteer in that capacity at Fair View, she leapt at the chance. She was working with a couple students a week for about an hour helping with job-readiness skills — things like resume building, interviewing, and cover letter writing — when she soon noticed a gap that needed filling. This realization led her to an idea for a project that would allow her to help the students get the experience they needed while also completing her master’s thesis. “I wanted to develop an exploratory work experience program, so the students could go out and experience different jobs unpaid for four weeks at a time,” Krystal explained. Krystal took her idea to Fran Anderson, Fair View’s youth employment and volunteer program coordinator, who also teaches a careers class. Fran said that she had wanted to do something similar for some time but lacked the necessary time to get it off the ground. Partnering with Krystal, who would do all the legwork and help facilitate the program from beginning to end, seemed like a great solution. So, with Fran onboard and with support from the school administration, Krystal’s Exploratory Work Experience (EWEX) Program was officially in motion. Krystal spent fall of 2014 setting up the infrastructure for the program — figuring out exactly how it was going to work, on both the student side and the employer side, creating brochures, and, finally, reaching out to local businesses.
BY KACEY GARDNER PHOTOS COURTESY OF EWEX
A WIN-WIN-WIN OPPORTUNITY
“In the beginning I was really nervous, thinking, ‘This is kind of out of my shell, I don’t even know what I’m doing, but I guess I can ask them if I can have a high school student come work here,’” Krystal recalled. “But it was a lot easier than I was expecting. The businesses were really willing to help, which was awesome. The Chico community has been a tremendous support.” Since formally beginning in the spring 2015 semester, Krystal and Fran have placed about 25 students, ages 16 and older, at 11 businesses and schools, including Save Mart, Grocery Outlet Bargain Market, Goodwill, Trader Joe’s, T.J. Maxx, Dragon Graphics, McManus Elementary, Chapman Elementary, Burrito Bandito, Computers for Classrooms, and Sam’s Hair Fantastic. The students would work in four-week periods at each business they were placed at, for two hours on Wednesdays, completing eight hours total at each business. After each placement, Krystal collected feedback from both the businesses and the students, which on both ends was resoundingly positive. The majority “if not all” of the businesses would like to continue the program, and the students learned invaluable basics about the work environment such as how to approach a business you’d like to work for, how to dress for work, and what customer service entails — not to mention leaving with tangible rewards such as references and experience to add to their resumes and, for a few, actual jobs. Krystal is graduating in December, but hopes to continue facilitating the EWEX program at least through the fall semester. She says the experience of working with Fair View students is one she’s grateful for. “The best part was getting to know the students that are going to be working in our community in a short period of time and knowing that they’re excited for their next step. These students are going to be able to offer a lot,” Krystal said. “I completely took myself by surprise, too. It was a lot of fun being really hands on and seeing my idea unfold. ”
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Back to School Fashion 101 Enroll yourself in a new style this season! The new school year is just around the corner, so check out these looks from your local clothiers before it’s time to hit the books again.
R E T RO F I T Arc & Co Mint Tank $51 Patrons of Peace palazzo pant $54 Key necklace $35 Teal clutch $50 Rebels Footwear Belinda Wedge $70 240 Main St., Chico 20
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F O R M A L E D U CAT I O N Scotch & Soda Hawaiian Shirt $89 Rodd & Gunn Burgundy Chatswood Pant $88 Sperry Top Sider tennis shoes in Chino $60 Stance cotton striped socks $12 334 Broadway St., Chico
U R BA N C O U T U R E Babydoll blouse $64 Distressed skinny jean $39 Locally woven hand bag $54 Burnished diamond style bracelet $28 Burnished chain necklace $22 Pearl necklace $28 Inside the Chico Mall
Q Scott Seaton &A
With a new season of the North State Symphony right around the corner, and a new conductor at its helm, symphony aficionados have been wondering just what this upcoming season will have in store for them. We caught up with the symphony’s new conductor, Scott Seaton, after he completed his cross-country bike ride for a short Q&A to introduce him to his new community.
WHERE DID YOU GET YOUR START IN MUSIC AND HOW DID YOU FIND YOUR WAY INTO CONDUCTING? I started playing saxophone in the fifth grade because I wanted to learn the theme to the Pink Panther—things spiraled way out of control from there! After several years of being a saxophonist, I started to develop an interest in conducting. This stemmed from seeing the Boston Pops on television as a kid and after having the opportunity to lead my high school marching band as a drum major. From there, I had the opportunity to conduct the Nashville Youth Symphony for four years all through my undergraduate years at Vanderbilt. It was that invaluable experience that really propelled me into the world of conducting orchestras.
WHAT CAN SYMPHONY LOVERS LOOK FORWARD TO DURING THIS NEXT SEASON? Guess they will have to come and find out! I will say, though, that it might just be my most favorite season that I’ve ever put together. There really is something for everyone in the coming concerts with the North State Symphony!
SINCE YOU BEGAN CONDUCTING, WHERE HAVE YOU HELD RESIDENCE AND IN WHAT POSITIONS? I began my conducting career with positions with a few university orchestras, including Kent State University and Davidson College. From there, I worked with the Lakeland Civic Orchestra in Cleveland, Ohio, until I got the music director position with the Minot Symphony Orchestra, which is a position I held for the past three years. Now here I am!
WHAT MADE YOU DECIDE TO TRY OUT FOR THE ROLE OF MUSIC DIRECTOR AT NSS? I have always loved California and as soon as I saw this vacancy, I knew that I would love to be out here. In addition to a vibrant community and a fantastic orchestra, I have family close by.
WHAT OTHER GENRES OF MUSIC DO YOU ENJOY? I enjoy most music! From bluegrass to Lady Gaga to the group Fun, I love it all! My favorite band is a Boston-based group called Guster— heard of them?
HOW DO LIKE TO SPEND YOUR TIME OUTSIDE OF THE MUSIC WORLD? I travel quite frequently, but cycling and running also consume quite a bit of my time. The past 43 days saw me cycling across America, which was such an incredible experience— difficult, too!
TELL US ABOUT YOUR EMOTIONAL RESPONSE TO THE LAST EPISODE OF GAME OF THRONES. I tend to have a very addictive personality, so I try not to get drawn into too many new TV series (House, Dexter, South Park, The Office, etc., have been plenty!). I can honestly say that I’ve never seen an episode of Game of Thrones. I know that many people didn’t like the most recent episode, though. Maybe someday I’ll cave and get sucked into it....
WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE MUSICAL ARRANGEMENT (AND WHY)? My favorite piece of music has been Stravinsky’s Rite of Spring for quite some time now. It’s an incredibly earthy, rugged, brutal piece of music that broke many musical barriers when it premiered in Paris in 1913. I tend to be drawn to more rhythmic pieces, so expect many pieces that have a “groove” in the coming seasons.
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Choosing a doctor for your family is undoubtedly an important undertaking — this is a person who you will trust with the well-being of not only yourself but also those dearest to you. That is why Chico’s newest primary care physician, Dr. Victoria Ota, promises to get to know her patients on a deeper level.
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BY KACEY GARDNER PHOTO ERIN WENHAM
Whole Body Medicine
“I approach people as a whole person,” she says. “It means that I’m interested in what’s going on at home, what’s bothering them, things that can contribute to their health — I want to know all about them.” Dr. Ota’s new practice, opening this August on Cohasset Road, provides high-quality, individualized, and affordable medical care in a membership-based format, meaning it is offered directly to patients for a reasonable monthly fee, rather than on a “fee for service” basis that is dependent on insurance plan reimbursement. In recent years, Chico and surrounding areas have seen an acute shortage in primary care physicians — and especially those who treat whole families, from birth to death. And of those that are here, many rely solely on insurance plan reimbursement to stay afloat, which translates to huge patient loads and rushed appointments. Dr. Ota, who has been practicing medicine for 11 years, had become disillusioned with this approach to treating patients and had even considered leaving medicine to go to culinary school. But when she realized there was another way — the direct care approach — she became reinvigorated. “With this, I have a chance to relax and spend time with my patients,” Dr. Ota says. “And it’s just so much more appealing. I’m excited about being a doctor again.” Originally from San Mateo, early in life Dr. Ota held several jobs in the medical field, including working as a medical assistant and phlebotomist. A doctor she worked with encouraged her to attend medical school, and so she started along that path by enrolling at San Francisco State University to study physiology. After earning her BS, she attended medical school on a scholarship from the Army at Western University of Health Sciences in Pomona, California, earning a doctorate of osteopathic medicine in 2003, and then completed her three-year residency at Downey Regional Medical Center, the final piece of her education. “It took a long time, but I just stuck with it, because I really wanted to work with families,” she said. With her schooling completed, Dr. Ota was assigned to active duty in Baumholder, Germany, where she created the largest unit for Wounded Warriors outside of the continental United States. There
she treated soldiers who were injured in the Middle East and family members of all ages. She left after four years of service with the rank of major, having had the privilege of serving as chief surgeon for her unit. She says that then and now, treating entire families is one of her favorite things about her work. “I’ll see four generations, even now, of families,” she says. “That’s the part I really love. It’s always nice to have all of the family involved in the practice.” Dr. Ota plans to put a limit on how many patients she will have at her new practice, so that she’s able to see a comfortable six to eight per day and do house calls when needed. In addition to the physician access afforded by the direct care approach, membership also includes a full range of treatments and procedures — including physicals, EKG, skin biopsies, joint injections, and much more. Anything performed in office is included in the age-based monthly fee, and low-cost options are offered for all out-of-office services such as laboratory, imaging, medications, and cardiac tests. Dr. Ota’s vision is to emphasize preventative care, put more of a focus on patient education, and when there are health problems, ask all of the questions necessary to determining the root cause and a personalized plan of action. “There are just so many things you have to ask a person,” she says. “I believe things are connected.”
CONNECT
For more information on Dr. Ota’s membership practice, please call her office at 530-809-1920 or visit www.victoriaotado.com.
UPGRADEDLIVING.COM AUGUST 2015
LOCAL LEGEND
NORD SCHOOL BY MATTHEW MANFREDI
PHOTOS COURTESY OF NORD COUNTRY SCHOOL
Students celebrate “Stone Soup Day”
T
o the north, the town of Nord (which means North in the Teutonic language) sits quietly on the intersections of country roads that stretch on for miles. As I sit in the principal’s office of Nord Country School in the middle of our great rural valley, I notice the noises outside echo through the window quite differently than what we’re used to in Chico. There are no police sirens, no horns honking—just the sound of a pace moving a bit slower. Though, at one point in Butte County history, the township of Nord used to be a place with much higher volume. Around the same time Chico began to bloom, toward the end of the 19th century, Nord was a central location of distribution and trading of produce from the surrounding farms. Steamships would travel up the Sacramento River, settling on close-by shores, and traders and entrepreneurs would make their way to Nord. In 1858, the first general store was opened and as the years went on, the town quickly began to flourish.
Nord Schoolhouse at its second location, circa
1890
A portion of the 1890 Nord School student body
25
YOUR HEALTH
Knowing Stroke Symptoms Can Save Your Life A stroke can strike anyone—no matter your age, ethnicity, or sex. There is no typical stroke victim. Yet women are slightly more likely than men to have a stroke and die from it. Why are women at higher risk? A stroke occurs when a part of your brain can’t get the blood it needs. A blood clot or bleeding in your brain can cause this serious health event. One factor that can increase anyone’s chances of having a stroke is high blood pressure. This condition can make it harder for your heart to pump blood throughout your body. Other risk factors are diabetes, high cholesterol levels, poor diet, an inactive lifestyle, and tobacco and illicit drug use. Some risk factors that are unique to women include hormonal changes. During pregnancy, some women may develop preeclampsia—a form of high blood pressure. Certain birth control pills can also put a woman at higher risk for stroke. This is especially true for women who smoke and are over 35. Women—more than men—also tend to develop health problems that may lead to a stroke. These include obesity and atrial fibrillation (AF), a type of irregular heartbeat. People with AF are 4 to 5 times more likely to have a stroke. AF commonly afflicts older people, especially women, because they often live longer than men. What about stroke symptoms? Not knowing the symptoms of a stroke also works against women. Researchers recently surveyed more than 1,200 women about stroke. Only half knew that sudden numbness in the face or a limb could mean a stroke, and fewer knew the other symptoms. For men and women, stroke can bring on sudden:
. Numbness or weakness in the face or limb, usually on one side of the body . Trouble seeing . Dizziness or loss of balance or coordination . Confusion and trouble speaking or understanding . Severe headache with no known cause
BE FAST Know the signs of stroke, and call 911 immediately: BALANCE sudden loss of balance or coordination EYES sudden change in vision FACE sudden weakness of the face ARMS sudden weakness of an arm or leg SPEECH sudden difficulty speaking TIME if you observe any of these symptoms, it’s TIME to call 911.
Women may also sometimes have hiccups, nausea, chest pain, fatigue, shortness of breath and a racing heartbeat. If you suspect that you or a loved one is having a stroke, call 911 right away. Quick action can save a life or reduce the chances of disability.
HEALTH ADVICE
VIA
S H E R R Y W I R T, R N
Sherry Wirt, RN, Enloe Medical Center’s Stroke Program | 530.332.3981| www.enloe.org/stroke Call for information or to receive mailings about Enloe’s Stroke Support Group for survivors, caregivers and family members.
27
Sun Damage:
Put it in Reverse! by Dr. Vimali Paul
We all know the benefits of wearing sunscreen; it prevents the burning and aging of our skin. It can also help to prevent skin cancers (melanoma, basal cell carcinoma) by making an invisible barrier between your skin and the sun. People that have had bad sunburns as children are the most likely to develop skin problems later on in life, so the earlier we start using some sort of skin protection, the less damage we will have as adults. The SPF we use should be a 30 to 50, and should be re-applied every 2 hours during prolonged exposure, after swimming, or after any outdoor exercise that causes profuse sweating. There are 2 types of sunscreens: Physical (inorganic) protection reflects UV rays away from the skin, and Chemical (organic) protection absorbs UV rays and disperses it as heat. Sunscreen should be worn every day, as UV rays are present even on cloudy days and can even penetrate through glass! Ingredients vary in different brands of sunscreen, but the most common are zinc and titanium dioxide, which are highly effective. Sunscreens have come a long way with their smell and feel, too. They are lighter weight, not greasy or shiny, and are pleasantly scented, so we are more likely to wear them! UV radiation can alter the DNA of our skin cells and make us look old before our time. Younger looking, healthy skin is our goal at the Derm Bar Med-Spa. Call us for a free consultation at 530-342-2672.
The Derm Bar Med-Spa 530-342-2672 85 Declaration Drive Suite 100 Chico, CA 95973
Five Signs Your Loved One May Benefit From Assisted Living As human beings we are hardwired for independence. But there are times when our independence could benefit from supportive services. Following are five ways to tell if your loved one might benefit from supportive services: 1. Do you see weight loss? Losing weight without trying is a sign that something is wrong. It could be a sign of cancer, dementia, depression, or heart disease. It could also mean that your loved one is lacking the energy to cook, is unable to grasp cooking utensils, or can’t shop for groceries. A consultation with a physician and supportive services can lead to helpful solutions. 2. Is your loved one taking care of him/ herself ? Is your loved one keeping up with his/her usual personal hygiene routines? Not keeping up with daily routines such as bathing, oral care, or other basic grooming could indicate health problems, dementia, depression, or physical impairments. 3. Is the home becoming too much of a burden? Check for signs that your loved one has neglected the home. Are the lights working? Has the yard become overgrown? Is the home abnormally messy? Significant changes in the way your loved one does things around the house could provide clues to his/her health. 4. Is your loved one having trouble moving around the house? Pay attention to how your loved one is walking. Is he/ she reluctant or unable to walk usual distances? Does he/she need a cane or walker? Discuss ways to make getting around easier. 5. What is your loved one’s mood? Does your loved one seem happy? Is he/she actively engaged in activities and interests that provide joy? Is he/she connecting with friends and family? If not, it’s time to explore the causes of this discontentment and work on solutions. Windchime Assisted Living 855 Bruce Road, Chico, CA RCFE #045001959 530-566-1800
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BEAUTY Q&A
Nailed It! What is the difference between gels, acrylics, and shellac manicures? There really is not much difference for the wearer when it comes to gel versus acrylic. They are both strong and add length. If sculpted properly, either will hold up the same. Gel, however, is odorless, so if the smell of acrylic is too strong for you, gel is a nice option. As for a “shellac manicure,” “Shellac” is just a brand, like Nike or Pepsi. Shellac is a gel polish, and there are nearly 100 brands of gel polish on the market — some consisting of a true pure gel others part nitrocellulose (nail polish). Gel polish is a great alternative to sculpted nails as it is applied over natural nails (no length added) and gives your nails the chance to grow on their own by giving them added strength. Gel polish is also easily changeable, so if you want a new look, that can be achieved in a quick 30-minute appointment.
BEAUTY ADVICE
VIA
Any tips for keeping my manicure looking fresh between trips to the salon? Remembering that your nails are jewels, not tools, is the best thing to keep in mind between appointments. Aside from not picking or chewing if you’re wearing regular nail polish, reapplying a good top coat a few times will help with wear. The magic of a gel polish manicure is that there is no maintenance required and your mani should last 2–3 weeks! What is the best way to remove artificial nails? The best way to remove artificial nails is to have them filed off by a professional. They can also be removed by soaking in acetone, but we strongly discourage that as overexposure can lead to an allergic reaction.
JILL & SCOTT OGBORN
Nail Candy is a full service nail salon located at 1311 Mangrove Avenue, Suite B in Chico. Contact them at (530) 321-0503 for more information or to make an appointment.
匀夀䰀䰀䄀䈀唀匀
MONTHLY FITNESS
Burpee Basics
by Crossfit VCP
Position1
Tips
From a standing position, reach down and place hands on the floor. Kick feet back to extend the body to plank position.
Just like any other skill, burpees do take time and practice to become efficient performing them. Find a pace you can handle and find rhythm in your transitions to maintain consistency. Always follow through with full range of motion, and most importantly, breathe!
Position 2 Keeping arms close to body, chest and hips come down to make contact with the floor, then shoot back up by pushing your body up from the ground and jumping your feet up to meet your heels to stand.
Position 3 With feet kicked back to hands, stand and jump up to reach target above or clap hands. If doing burpees in a sequence, continue after landing the jump to start the descent down to the floor for your next burpee.
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Burpees are a great body weight movement that can be done anywhere, and no matter your limitations, burpees can be modified so anyone can do them. Because not everyone is at the same level of fitness, our Fundamentals program is designed for anyone new and looking to learn the basic skills of CrossFit and transition you to CrossFit classes. We go over appropriate progressions to learn the movements and find the right progression for you. Contact us to find out more and to get started in our 14-day free Fundamentals program.
Crossfit VCP | (530) 566-3352 | CrossFitVCP@gmail.com | 13306 Cabin Hollow Court #130, Chico UPGRADEDLIVING.COM AUGUST 2015
PHOTOS ERIN WENHAM
The burpee is considered one of the best full-body exercises in any fitness or elite athletic training program. While only a three- to four-step movement, the burpee takes the body through a full range of motion using almost every large muscle group in your body. Because it creates a lot of movement in such a short amount of time, it has a great effect on increasing strength, metabolism, and cardiovascular health, and the more intense the movement, the greater the benefits long after you’ve finished your workout. There are two basic standards in CrossFit to completing the burpee: making sure your chest and hips touch the ground on the bottom of the burpee and completing the movement by touching a target or hands above your head when coming from standing to the jump.
Dining Out
By Alyssa Worley Phots Frank Rebelo + MIchelle Camy
P
atios, at their most basic, can be simply a slab of concrete. In
the case of restaurant patios in Chico, they are so much more. Giving customers not only a place to enjoy the food and drink so carefully prepared but also an outdoor oasis displaying location surroundings and features is important to many owners. Much time and thought is put into these outdoor retreats, including features that are not only fun but practical. Dining alfresco, be it under starlit nights or bright mornings, brings a number of benefits. Most importantly, patios are a place for people to come together.
Panighetti’s Eatery Directly facing the Esplanade, Panighetti’s patio has become hugely popular, particularly as a brunch hotspot. From the street, the patio’s lights, umbrellas above every table, and greenery make Panighetti’s appealing to any passerby. From your seat, the full bar and Italian menu makes what’s placed on the table greatly enticing as well. Try this: KC Chiller - grapefruit, triple sec, lime, pineapple, and grenadine 1851 Esplanade #100, Chico
Crush Italian Cuisine and Lounge Look up and you’ll see happy people holding some of the best drinks in town. You’ll hear the buzz of conversation and notice the luxurious outdoor seating. Look down from the Crush patio and see the exciting action of downtown Chico filled with plentiful lighting and thriving town activity. Seat yourself above the rest on the patio at Crush Italian Cuisine and Lounge. Try this: Grilled globe artichoke with remoulade sauce and the Peach Smash, made with Bird Dog peach whiskey and fresh lemon juice. 201 Broadway St #200, Chico
Red Tavern As the only restaurant in Chico with a bocce ball court, the folks at Red Tavern are all about enjoying yourself among good friends and food. A venue for Chico’s wealth of musicians, jazz is played on the patio every Wednesday night and Tuesday on the lawn features an all-night happy hour. Treat yourself under the twinkling patio lights with a drink from the full bar and bite to eat from the unique menu. Try this: Boulevardier Cocktail and Strawberry Margarita 1250 Esplanade, Chico
Wine Time Greeted by massive iron doors, lush greenery, and a small vineyard, Wine Time’s aesthetic is impressive — and that’s just the entrance. Their back patio features a trickling stream and relaxing visual of large umbrellas and surrounding flora. Perfect for a glass of wine with friends, Wine Time is the hidden gem of North Chico. Try this: Chapel Hill Shiraz (Australia) Twice baked purple potato on vegan butternut squash aioli 26 Lost Dutchman Drive, Chico 35
Smokin Mo’s Tucked behind one of the oldest buildings in downtown Chico, the Smokin Mo’s patio is surrounded by tall brick walls covered in green ivy and offers the feeling of a getaway while staying in the familiar realm of downtown. The food is “home cooking” style and full of flavor. When served with a mug of cold brew (our recommendation), dining here under the shade makes for the perfect Chico summer unwind. Try this: Ribs with all three sauces (Sweet Carolina, Memphis Original, Philthy Phil’s) 131 Broadway St, Chico
Sol Mexican Gril Not much is more satisfying than eating really good Mexican food outside. Located off the Esplanade, Sol cooks up “casual Mexican cuisine” in a welcoming atmosphere, surrounded by inviting staff, warmly colored tiles and décor, and plenty of plant surrounded patio seating for family and friends alike. Our go-to for that much needed fresh Mexican food fix in North Chico. Try this: Tostada salad with grilled chicken and black beans. Served with your choice of southwest or cilantro ranch dressing. 3269 Esplanade, Chico
Morning Thunder Hidden by awnings and thick hedges, the Morning Thunder patio is a secret treasure hidden right across from lower Bidwell Park. Slower paced than the hustle and bustle inside the restaurant, this patio is a place to sip slowly, and enjoy every bite. At a perfect walking distance from downtown, breakfast at Morning Thunder is a great starting point to any morning. Try this: Sunrise Mimosa and Light Egg Bagel with egg whites, fresh tomato, spinach on a thin bagel 352 Vallombrosa Ave, Chico
Burgers & Brew One of the newest patio additions to downtown Chico, Burgers and Brew is right smack in the center of all the action. A fire pit surrounded by cushy seating faces a bar with beer on tap; beer-tenders are at the ready with a wealth of brew knowledge to get you sipping the best beer for your palette. Take in the view of downtown directly from your seat while experiencing the great food and drink Burgers and Brew has to offer. Try this: Sierra Nevada Pale Ale served with spicy guacamole, cheddar, and bleu cheese sliders. 301 Broadway St, Chico 36
UPGRADEDLIVING.COM AUGUST 2015
FIVE MISTAKES THAT CAN UPEND YOUR RETIREMENT BY RENEE MICHEL AND JOE SWEENEY, FINANCIAL ADVISORS Pursuing your retirement dreams is challenging enough without making some common, and very avoidable, mistakes. Here are five big financial mistakes to steer clear of, if possible. 1. No strategy: Author Lewis Carroll wrote, “If you don’t know where you are going, any road will get you there.” Indeed, the biggest mistake is not having any strategy. Without a strategy, you may have no goals, leaving you no way of knowing how you’ll get there. Creating a strategy may increase your potential for success, both before and after retirement. 2. Frequent trading: Chasing “hot” investments often lead to despair. Create an asset allocation strategy that is properly diversified to reflect your objective, risk tolerance and time horizon; and then make adjustments based on changes in your personal situation, not based on market ups and downs.¹ 3. Not maximizing tax-deferred savings: Workers have tax-advantaged ways to
save for retirement. Not participating in your employer’s 401(k) may be a mistake, especially when you’re passing up free money in the form of employer-matching contributions.² 4. Not adjusting your investment approach well before retirement: The last thing your retirement portfolio can afford is a sharp fall in stock prices and a sustained bear market at the moment you’re ready to stop working. Consider adjusting your asset allocation in advance of tapping your savings so you’re not selling stocks when prices are depressed.³ 5. Retiring with too much debt: If too much debt is bad when you’re making money, it can be deadly when you’re living in retirement. Consider managing or reducing your debt level before you retire. It’s not only about money: Above all, a rewarding retirement requires good health, so maintain a healthy diet, exercise regularly, stay socially involved, and remain intellectually active.
1 The return and principal value of stock prices will fluctuate as market conditions change. And shares, when sold, may be worth more or less than their original cost. Asset allocation and diversification are approaches to help manage investment risk. Asset allocation and diversification do not guarantee against investment loss. Past performance does not guarantee future results. 2 Distributions from 401(k) plans and most other employer-sponsored retirement plans are taxed as ordinary income and, if taken before age 59½, may be subject to a 10% federal income tax penalty. Generally, once you reach age 70½, you must begin taking required minimum distributions. 3 The return and principal value of stock prices will fluctuate as market conditions change. And shares, when sold, may be worth more or less than their original cost. Asset allocation is an approach to help manage investment risk. Asset allocation does not guarantee against investment loss. Past performance does not guarantee future results. Some excerpts written by FMG Suite.
Renée Michel, MBA and Joe Sweeney, CFP® | 2452 Lakewest Drive, Chico, CA 95928 530-342-2900 | 800-333-2901 | (F) 530-342-3925 | rmichel@amgchico.com | www.sweeneymichelamg.com Securities and advisory services offered through Cetera Advisor Networks LLC (doing insurance business in CA as CFGAN Insurance Agency), member FINRA/SIPC. Cetera is under separate ownership from any other named entity.
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SPRUCE YOUR SPACE Sometimes we all need a bit of inspiration when it comes to design. Lucky for us, there is no shortage of trendy treats for the home in our area. This local sampling is just one of many ideas to freshen up your space — we hope it gets your creative wheels turning! 4
7
5
6
UPTOWN VINTAGE & SHABBY PROJECT K
1311 Mangrove Ave Suite C, Chico | 5. Vera vintage cloth napkin | 7. Vintage wooden end table
231 Main St, Chico | 6. Ceramic knick knack box
VAGABOND ROSE
236 Main St, Chico | 3. “Red Sauce” by Marilyn Walsh (watercolor) | 4. Mid-century Japanese chair
NANTUCKET HOME 603 Broadway St, Chico 38
UPGRADEDLIVING.COM AUGUST 2015
| 1. Geometric wool rug | 2. Canvas “Chico” pillow
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挀栀椀挀漀栀漀洀攀椀渀昀漀⸀挀漀洀
DO YOU REALLY NEED A REALTOR?
FIND YOUR HOME HERE
BY DAN BOSCH
Submit
After 17 years in the Real Estate business, I have
potential for a higher sales price were not enough,
come to understand that there is often a disconnect
consider the fact that the real estate purchase agree-
between the public perception of what a Realtor
ment is now nearly 20 pages in length, that there
does and what the job actually entails when per-
are countless other disclosures and documents that
formed by a true professional. I have heard many
Sellers are obligated to provide, that real estate re-
times throughout my career statements such as “All
mains one of the most litigious segments of business
a Realtor does is put a sign in the yard and put the
in today’s society and that without representation,
home on the Multiple Listing Service” or “I’m not go-
you are truly walking this path alone… Lastly, I always
ing to pay a commission when I can just have a Title
ask that people take into consideration the value of
Company draft up the paperwork for a small fee.”
their own time. It seems these days that the response
I have found that the topic of money and the aver-
to the question “How are you?” is typically “I’m really
sion to paying a Realtor is usually at the root of these
busy!” If this sounds like you, then think about trying
types of statements… While there is no denying that
to carve out another 3-5 hours per week (or more)
when hiring a Realtor you will be charged a fee for
over the next month or two for open houses, show-
their service, I would say there could perhaps be no
ings, answering calls and emails, and ultimately seeing
more misunderstood relationship than that of a client
the sale through to the close. It is simply more than
and a Realtor. Again, this misunderstanding is many
most people can handle, but many times this reali-
times based on the perception that Realtors do very
zation comes too late. It comes in the middle of the
little work, but that somehow we make a great deal
night when they can’t sleep because of the stress, or
of money doing it. As with the majority of misunder-
when they are late for work because the potential
standings in life, this one has the potential to create a
Buyer took longer to look at the home than you could
wide range of feelings for people. These feelings can
have imagined, or when their child throws their tenth
be as simple as confusion about what a Realtor really
tantrum because they are tired of having to clean up
does, or as serious as anger and resentment for the
their room while the home is on the market. But at
fact that some think that Realtors collect their entire
the end of the day the question remains and whether
commission check and ride off into the proverbial
or not you need, or see the value in a good Realtor is
sunset.
up to you…
The truth of the matter is that a knowledgeable, experienced and reputable Realtor should not be looked at as a cost, but instead as an investment. Unfortunately, many Realtors fail when attempting to con that homes sold by Realtors sell for significantly more money and in a shorter period of time than
Dan Bosch is a Realtor Associate with RE/MAX of Chico and the team leader for the Premier Professionals Real Estate Team.
Your dream home is out there! Find it today at
CHICOHOMEINFO.COM
those sold by the homeowner themselves. As if the 39
There’s something about
SHERRY LANDIS
Still cruising with Century21 after 25 years!
“Sherry Landis Landis is is by by far far the the best best real real estate “Sherry estate agent agent in in Chico. Chico. She She is is
We love working with Sherry.and Shehas is the ultimatefollow realtor professional. She is amazing!! professional, positive, incredible professional, positive, and has incredible follow through. through. She She helped helped us us She’s the best in the business! She knows the community inside and out. She is honest navigate our our way way through through the the sale sale of of two homes and the purchase of andShe theknows purchase of and navigate understands what her customers wanttwo in ahomes property. the market and another—all at the the same sameon time! She never missed aa beat. made sure another—all at time! She never missed beat. She She sure we we pricing and is knowledgeable all aspects of home purchasing. Wemade have used Sherry understood the process, and stayed stayed in contact with all understood the process, and in constant constant contact with us. us. Even after all in numerous home and investment purchases. We won’t use anyone elseEven and after recomthree homes closed, she continued continued to call, and mend Sherry to all closed, of our friends and family. the best!! three homes she toShe call,is email, email, and text text just just to to make make sure sure everything was was going going as as planned. planned. We We could her.” - Connie Adams everything could not not have have done done itit without without her.” — — DOUG DOUG AND AND COLETTE COLETTE ROBERTS ROBERTS
(530) 514-4855 | landis4sale@aol.com | www.SherryLandis.com
S
Proudly presenting the nearest park location home! This Wonderfully maintained home is ready to go from hardwood floors, fireplace, remodeled kitchen – decorator colors – new appliances! A pleasure to show!!! Bed: 3.0 Bath: 2.0 SqFt: 1,330 Price: $285,000
A lot of home for the value! This custom built home is in a sought after gated community just outside Paradise with hard to find canyon views above the Chico fog & smog. The front yard is lush with custom drought-resistant landscaping and greenery for excellent curb appeal. High 10 foot ceilings throughout with custom crown molding in living and dining rooms. Hardwood floors are throughout main living spaces. Quality ceiling fans in all rooms. There is central heating and cooling with special appointments, which include a voltage regulator to extend electrical components. There is a surround sound system in the living room which extends to the upper deck. A “Nest” system regulates the main house heating and cooling to decrease and This was wasenergy the model model homemay andbe only one owner! owner! There have been floorKitchen plan updated remodeled from This the home and only one have many monitor use which controlled fromThere your phone or IPad or fromAaterrific small device on Galli the wall. includesand custom ash cabinetry withto a Michael from head head to upgrades including travertine tiles, upgraded carpets, granite, oversized steeloverlooking appliances,the granite plush cherry stain with lotstravertine of counters. Raised breakfast bar and separate large eating offaofyear kitchen windows deck counters, and view. Builtupgrades including tiles, upgraded carpets, granite, toearea about ago. with Stainless counters, plush lot, builtin in desk desk in in media media room, special special color paint paint throughout, throughout, in stainless steel oven, microwave, and dishwasher are in the kitchen as well as an in-counter stove-top. double kitchenpainting, sink includes an oversized carpets, decorator lighting, The exterior and interior lush park like lot, built room, color draperies, park likeyard, yard, garbage disposal. Separate diningfall, bigflowers enoughgalore for a large family table..sparkling in ground gunite Bed: 4.0 SqFt: 2,852shed, Price: $499,900 landscaped beautifully withformal slate water water fall, flowers galore and redwood pool, Bath: newer4.0 10x10 outdoor wood stove, landscaped beautifully with slate and wood stove,
trees. RV RV Access Access on on both both sides sides of of the the house house and and two two master master suites make trees. shows truly like a model home. Open floor plan with so many upgrades! upgrades! thishome homeaamust mustsee! see! this Bed: 4.0 4.0 Bath: Bath: 4.0 4.0 SqFt: SqFt: 3,166 3,166 Price: Price: Clean$429,000 and pretty Sierra Sunrise unit withBed: upgraded appliances, newer carpet in$665,000 main 4.0 Bath: 3.0 SqFt: 3,675 Price: Bed: $665,000 area of home and a beautiful view out the balcony! Run, don’t walk as this one just won’t last!! Easy to show Live like you’re on vacation close to lakes, walking trails and enjoy the benefits of peaceful setting, morning sipping coffee listening to chirp chirp!!
Yikes!
Bed: 2.0
Bath: 2.0
SqFt: 1,300 Price: $210,000
My homes are selling fast! Call if I can #3 help in Production for 2014! by listing your home today! Any closed transaction receives a gift certificate to 40
UPGRADEDLIVING.COM AUGUST 2015
CA-DRE lic# 01084946
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Tucked away in a upscale neighborhood & sheltered by majestic Conveniently Chico and Paradise trees, here you willlocated find yourbetween dream home. This beautiful home in gated community, this home is truly magnificent with soaringwith ceilings, walls is designed for indoor/outdoor entertaining and is loaded of glass, You gleaming wood floors, six inch interior walls, lavish living room upgrades. will love the generously proportioned rooms, the with fireplace, formal informal dining rooms, wetthe bar, gourmet gorgeous wood floors, theand formal living and dining rooms, cozy kitchen with sinks, granite designed hood, family room withthree it’s fireplace, guestcounter quarter,tops, expansive master suit, Bosch appliances, convection andbreakfast warmingnook ovens, two HVAC, Jack & Jill large kitchen with can lighting, over looking a beautiful bedrooms, bath with 2 head shower,all dual vanity and a jetted private yard, 3master car garage, gated R.V. parking on almost one ace 1300 ft of covered porches and 3 car garage, all on almost of tub, totalalmost privacy. 2 acre parcel. Bed: Bath:3.0 SqFt: 2,839Price: Price: $499,900 Bed: 4.04.0Bath: 3.0 SqFt: 2,501 $487,500
SOLD
Intoxicating view! Where the eagles soar, this captivating residence be impressed!!!! a stunning iron gate, sitsPrepare shieldedtobehind iron gates.Guarded This homeby is truly magnifiwrought cent with and located one of ofglass, the best schoolwood districts in a Butte County. towering ceilings,inwalls gleaming floors, lavish living This beautiful antique gemdining, has been remodeled topgranite to bottom, and it boasts room, formal & informal gourmet kitchen, counters, a solar hood, system,3 fresh paint, 6” new dual pane flooring, and corian designer fireplaces, interior walls, windows, 2HVAC, 3new car garage counter topsalmost and cherry cabinetry. Its tidy darling kitchen overlooks more all onan 2 acre parcel. The ambiance is peaceful with the specious well & manicured it offers stainless views of sunsets city lights.yard You and will breakfast on the steel patioappliances, watching an bar and a corner breakfast nook area. You relax will love the stunning theeating mountain ranges & Sutter-Buttes. At night simply & enjoy your bathrooms that tiled with sky. subway tiles accented with glass unobstructed viewhave of thebeen star-speckled and slates. Bed: 5.0 Bath: Bath: SqFt: 1,808Acreage: Price: $345,000 Bed: 4.0 3.03.0 SqFt: 2,389 ~2.0
PENDING
The lake is only seconds away from this beautiful home! Tucked away Pirates will squeal & scurry for this hidden treasure! The delightful, large A quiet quiet neighborhood, country lane leads youmaintained to Country livingoffers can a bedarling yours! A quietfront country lane you tohome this wonderful half acre Ranchette. This in a this well home porch of will this lead gorgeous provides relaxation and a great this peaceful 8+ acres of pastoral home has and an unassuming complements the environment. TheWith soft soaring cascades lights and gated porch, perfect for summer days to sit upon relax. Insidecharm that place to get to know your neighbors. 10 of and 12 foot setting. You’ll drawn to the shades on this home a timelessness where tomorrow, or week need not mean urgency. In you’ll find an openbe floor plan, high ceilings, tile counters, and add wood ceilings, this today, home features walls of glass windows providing ample warmth of this lovely home. You this special place you will find a bright airy kitchen, a delightful living room that looks out over a peaceful flooring throughout. Tile floors in the kitchen and bathrooms, fireplace natural lighting, crown molding throughout, bamboo flooring, a cozy will love its open floor plan, country setting and a large family room perfect for large gatherings. This house was recently updated with fresh in the living room, closet, mater bath with dual sink, separate fireplace with mantel, built-in bookshelves, cabinets with glass doors, kitchen, pellet walk-in stove and bright paint, new kitchen tops kitchen, and new3fences. The and property goeslaundry, to the second white shower a tub. The yard maintenance free so appliances, you can enjoy life counter a darling bedrooms a loft,line indoor a beautiful roomsand that convey an isaura of fence in the back. is plenty ofpatio roomwith in the yard for garden, pool and family orchard. whether byhappiness. spending more by the lake canoeing, fishing, or justThere enjoying fountain and Zen-inspired landscaping plus 2Here, car garage. Must time see. Call today! walking the paths around area. Bed: 3.0theBath: 2.0 working in the garden or just relaxing, your tension will seem to vanish. Bed: 3.0 Bath:Bed: 2.0 3.0 SqFt:Bath: 1,7762.5Acreage: 0.56 Price: Price:$309,000 $299,900 Bed: 2.0 Bath: 2.0 SqFt: 1,346 Price: $269,000 SqFt: 1,739 SqFt: 1,560 Price: $289,000
n,000 ,000
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000
6 46
PENDING Two commercial properties. The This home features granite views of Mt.home Shastaoffers and a Mt. Lassen!!ambiance This well maintained The view is stunning!! Sheltered by majestic tall trees and guarded by the Intoxicating iron gate, this dramatic peaceful and a first parcel has 1.6 AC with a counter tops, laminate flooring, homefamily sits onroom 10 acres total privacy. Featuring a large room breathtaking view from every room. You’ll love the large living room, delightful and of the formal dining all with their ownliving fireplaces. 600 Sq ft. building structure that crown molding, security system, with aflooring, free standing wood a newly remodeled The home was recently remodeled with slab granite counters, wood laminate travertine tilesstove, and new appliances. This kitchen beautifulwith home was built in 1979 and has been central heat and air, dual pane counter tops, custom and newer appliances, this boasts a gourmet kitchen with pull out drawers, an office in addition to itsgranite 4 bedrooms, security system, cabinetry central vac, water softener, 2 heating, operating as a nursery for the last windows, upgraded appliances homeforalso andare laminate flooring, an doors over sized bonus and 2 air conditioning systems, back up generator, electric blinds, and power R.V.provides hook up.tile There numerous French that lead to a 25 years. It is partially fenced, it is and fixtures. This home also has a roomcounter, with a wood indoor laundry, water provides softeners,outdoor 2 balconies, dream terrace. The 3 car garage includes built in storage cabinets, workshop and astove, sink. The gated community pool, on individual city services and isrooms near park large and basement perfect for your home a private domestic welltree, plusyou’ll a shared well, central heating andas air, storage for each home R.V. area. This beautiful sits a midst towering relishAg. walking the paths of nature and shopping. The 2nd parcel is eagles winesoar collection and storage! barn/shop, carincredible carport and more. the seasons change, watching or just sitting on the terrace and enjoying 4the viewmuch and only 15 mins to Chico. on .29 AC and is adjacent to the Bed: 2.0 Bath: 2.0 Bed: Bed:4.0 4.0 Bath: Bath:3.0 3.0 SqFt: SqFt:2,240 3,538 Price: Price:$399,900 $599,950 other parcel. Price: $400,000 SqFt: 2,085 Price: $239,000 41 39
New Again Kitchen Remodeling Presents
Bedros rative G
House Call
FROM HOUSE TO HOME
Blue Pearl Granite from Norway
42
UPGRADEDLIVING.COM AUGUST 2015
Buying a brand new home is an exciting experience for anyone. A blank slate filled with possibilities, we spend our time personalizing each and every nook and cranny until it finally matches our own unique style. Buying a tract home affords this same experience at a lesser cost but, as many come to find, the cheaper materials used
to build these homes end up calling for sweeping changes sooner rather than later. Floyd Newhardt bought his new home in 2007; built on a tract development in Willows, it took less than eight years for him to realize just that. With sinks that had begun to bubble and crack near the drain, and fiberglass tubs and showers that
had become impossible to clean, it was clear that his bathrooms needed a major makeover. After having already personalized the majority of the space, he knew it was time to make the final changes and transform the house into his home.
BY AVEED KHAKI PHOTOS ERIN WENHAM
The Client
The Call Bedrosian Decorative Glass Tiles in Marina
Floyd drove into Chico and began interviewing one remodeling company after the next, obtaining pricing from each as he went.
He was driving down Park Avenue when he saw the granite slabs sunning themselves outside of New Again Kitchen Remodeling and decided to stop in. Het met Ric, a Corning boy like himself, and the two instantly hit it off. He expressed his disappointment in the quality of the products
used in his bathrooms and further at the pricing he was seeing at the other shops he had visited. He knew exactly what he wanted, but it didn’t seem like any of the other locations he visited were able to complete everything in-house or at a price that he found fair.
Bedrosian Decorative Glass Tiles in Tranquility
The Cure White Carrera Hexagonal Mosaic Floor Tile
Ric understood Floyd’s frustrations. A veteran of the remodeling industry for 30 years, Ric has updated countless tract homes just like Floyd’s. Floyd was impressed by Ric’s professionalism along with the wide selection available throughout the showroom. In particular, Floyd fell in love with the blue pearl granite countertops. They were masculine and the variations in color complemented the CONNECT
rest of the house to a tee. Ric decided to use the counters as the focal point and design the rest of the bathrooms around them. With the vast inventory of tile options available at New Again Kitchen Remodeling, Floyd found it easy to discover the ones that were perfect for him. He decided to use a variety of bedrosian tiles to cover his bathroom floors, shower walls, and shower floors as well. Ric reached out to Victor Cabrera of TilePro, a preferred partner of New Again, to help
build a custom shower bench and dam for Floyd’s master bathroom. Finally the custom shower doors were completed by Don McSpadden, owner of the Screen and Window Shop in Paradise.
Completed on time and on budget, Floyd couldn’t be happier with the experience. “New Again provided excellent service. They were on time with everything and the quality of the materials they used was great!
The pricing was far better than the competition, and I would send a friend to them in a heartbeat,” he said. With the remodel completed just a few weeks ago, Floyd is excited to fully appreciate the luxurious environment created by New Again Kitchen Remodeling. He’s keeping his fingers crossed that this year’s upcoming El Niño drops enough water to allow him to spend all the time he’s dreamed of in his new master bath.
New Again Kitchen Remodeling | 2502 Park Ave, Chico, CA 95928 | 530) 899-2888 43
Becky Prater
(530) 520-0308
beckysbuys@yahoo.com
www.BeckysBuys.com
Looking for a great RV space, garden area and inground POOL? This home on a quiet street has it ALL. One of the most popular neighborhoods in Chico it offers easy freeway access, yet low traffic and a wide street. With 4 bedrooms/2bths and living and family rooms there is space for everyone! The home has been freshly painted, almost NEW roof, water heater and pool equipment the heavy lifting has been done for you! Come put your own decorating touch on this and make it a great home. Bed: 4.0 Bath: 2.0 Price: $315,000
CA BRE # 00772540
COMING SOON!
Canyon Oaks Beauty — Yet wonderfully roomy and inviting for the whole gang! Backing up to the 14th green, this 2800 sq ft + home has 3 bedrooms PLUS an office, huge laundry/craft room with lots of storage and 3 baths. The kitchen island opens to the dining and living rooms so everyone can be present at once! Downstairs you’ll find a fun game room with a separate guest bedroom and bath, these open to 2 wood decks and the patio. Security system, gas fireplace, laminate flooring and great views! What more could you want! $500,000 Bed: 3.0 Bath: 3.0 SqFt: 2,800+ Price: $500,000
1700+ home on a quiet cul-de-sac with HUGE yard and pool. Great northwest Chico neighborhood off of W. Shasta Ave. LOW $300,000’s Darling 3 bedroom/2 bath home at end of quiet street in Paradise, large lot, detached garage/shop. MID $100,000’s
ANTIQUE DIY
PROJECT + PHOTOS BY ERIN WENHAM
Ombré Art Wheel
Upcycling has never been more true to its name with this repurposed bike wheel from Uptown Vintage & Shabby. When that old bike is ready to be put
INSTRUCTIONS
Wash your wheel with a degreaser if necessary to ensure that your paint will adhere correctly.
out to pasture, let its parts take on new lives of their own. Bike wheels are fun, visually interesting pieces that have tons of potential when it comes to repurposing. This art display project is just one of many possibilities! MATERIALS NEEDED
Old bike wheel Spray paint Clothespins
a doorknob or broach if it looks plain. Now you’re ready to display your favorite
To achieve the “ombré” effect, three shades of blue were used: Lagoon,
Project courtesy of Marcia Dicus, one of 12
Seaside, and Ocean Mist. Start with a base
creative women who brings the Uptown Vintage
coat of the darkest (or lightest) shade and
& Shabby pop-up shop to life. The shop, located
add in your other colors until you reach
at 1311 Mangrove Avenue, is open four days out
the desired look. Experiment and have
of the month, usually during the third week of the
fun—imperfection is welcomed!
month. When the shop is closed, these ladies are working tirelessly to bring you a fresh inventory
Spray paint your clothespins a fun,
of eclectic vintage pieces, antiques, and unique
contrasting color if that tickles your
upcycled projects.
you may choose to remove the center hardware so the wheel can lay flush UPGRADEDLIVING.COM AUGUST 2015
with another decorative element like
photos and art!
fancy. If you’d like to hang your wheel,
46
to the wall. You can cover this spot
TREASURE COVE Collectibles • Antiques • Furniture • Jewelry Clothing and more!
We take CONSIGNMENTS Drop oo donations OR Schedule a pick up
8247 Skyway, Paradise (Corner Skyway & Wagstaff) Tuesday-Saturday 9 AM - 5 PM 530-877-2514
ORANGE STREET CONSIGNMENT
Celebrating our 16th Anniversary!
(530) 899-7064 514 ORANGE STREET CHICO, CA OPEN THURSDAY - SUNDAY 11AM-5PM
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Mary McGowan CA BRE # 01119659
(530) 518-8888
Maryhmcg@gmail.com
Rare Horse Property with charming updated home on approximately 1 acre. This lovely ranchette features a spacious country kitchen with white shaker style cabinets, butcher block counters, tile floors, eating bar, and nook area, formal dining room with wainscoting open to living room with wood stove insert, large master suite, updated baths, inside laundry, beautifully landscaped with automatic sprinklers. Looking for a 4H set up or horses? Look no further! Great barn, tack room, hay storage, coral, chicken coop, garden area, basketball area and more! Satisfy the whole family! Bed: 3.0 Bath: 2.0 SqFt: 1,683 Price: $345,000
Bidwell Park Location! Remodeled home featuring a large kitchen with granite counters and plenty of storage open to the family room with a brick fireplace with gas starter, formal living room with tile floors, large master suite with classic white subway tile shower, tile floors and solid surface counters, many ceiling fans, skylights, large covered patio, spacious low maintenance yard, auto sprinklers, and upgraded metal roof. A great value and an even better location! Bed: 3.0 Bath: 2.0 SqFt: 1,460 Price: $284,000
Big Bang for your Buck! One owner home loaded with upgrades! Gourmet kitchen with granite counters, large island w/ eating bar, open to family room w/ gas fireplace. 2 master suites (1 up and 1 down), custom wood blinds and ceiling fans throughout, loads of storage, large bedrooms -3 with walk-in closets, bonus room with built-ins, inside laundry room, upgraded lighting, dual zoned HVAC, high capacity tankless water heater, 9 ft. plate line and 8 ft doors downstairs, arbor covered patio and auto sprinklers in front and back. Very energy efficient! Bed: 4.0 Bath: 4.0 SqFt: 3,159 Price: $379,000
Protecting Your #1 Investment Residential & Commercial Inspections Chico, CA and Surrounding Areas
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UPGRADEDLIVING.COM AUGUST 2015
Morning Thunder’s
Everything Veggie Bagel Ingredients: Cucumber Sweet red onions Avocado “Everything” bagel Balsamic vinegar Mayonnaise
GO THERE
Instructions: Slice cucumber, onions, and avocado to desired thickness. For balsamic mayonnaise, blend together a small amount of balsamic vinegar with mayonnaise. For a more tangy taste, add more vinegar; for a creamier taste, use less. Toast bagel as desired and add toppings. Serve with fresh fruit and your favorite morning beverage. Pairs great with peach iced tea.
Morning Thunder, 352 Vallombrosa Ave., Chico | Photo by Frank Rebelo
2 for$28
— Mondays and Tuesdays — Through the end of August! Two entrees, two salads, bread and a bottle of wine for $28! ⠀㔀㌀ ⤀ 㠀 㤀ⴀ㔀㌀ 㘀 䴀愀渀最爀漀瘀攀 䄀瘀攀Ⰰ 匀琀攀 ⌀㜀㔀 䌀栀椀挀漀
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GEORGE KOSZIS
“I like to think there’s no tool I don’t know how to use,” says George Koszis, a forerunner of something called “Steam Punk” art, work he began in the ’70s in San Francisco where he was a street artist. His studio is a testament to that, filled with every kind of tool you can imagine. And then some. George’s training began when he was a boy in Indiana, hanging out in his dad’s shop. “When there was a strike at the steel mill, my dad filled his time with odd jobs, building cabinets and tables,” he said. “And I got to be there with him, building whatever I wanted.” Steel mills dominated the way George saw life. It wasn’t until he was 14 that he learned that not all skies were colored red at night and snow was white, not grey. He worked the mills himself on weekends and contin-
ued to spend time in his dad’s shop whenever he had free time. “Those two places?” he says with a wry smile. “Dad’s shop and the steel mills? They greatly contributed to my love of tools and metal fabrication.” Growing up a mile from Lake Michigan, he had to cross 47 sets of railroad tracks to get there. “It seemed like all the rail lines of the country crossed there,” he says wistfully, as if this memory were symbolic of a crossroads, and how he moved on in life. “I couldn’t stay. I studied art at Notre Dame and then moved to San Francisco, and studied art there, too. “If my art could talk,” says George, “it would say that you can find beauty in the most unlikely of places and things.” George and his wife, Pat, a celebrated ceramic artist, have lived in Chico for 18 years. Behind their house are their two adjacent art studios. One of George’s more infamous art pieces, Analog Man, a metal figure made in George’s image, 6 feet tall, complete with or-
STEEL MILLS, STEAMPUNK, AND MASTERPIECES By Lauren Mesa | Photos by Frank Rebelo
gans, toes, a brain and more, no longer stands guard between the studios. “It recently sold. Analog Man, who represents me, is helping to pay my medical bills,” says George, who has stage four cancer. “I didn’t know that would happen when I created him.” He shifts in his seat and looks up with eagerness. “If it’s OK I’d like to end with a story. It happened in the early days of the Open Studio Tours, something I’ve always been involved with. There was a young lady, fascinated by my work, who asked all kinds of questions. Turns out she begged her grandpa to help her build a chess set out of car parts.” George’s smile is broad, lighting up his face. “She came back to see me, told me all about it. She actually came back year after year. I like to think I inspired lots of young people. That would mean my efforts have been worthwhile.”
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MANDALYN MAY From sweet and soulful to hopping and hollering, Mandalyn May shines on ukulele, guitar, and mountain dulcimer. With a vocal style that reflects her wandering roots, she relates stories of life, love, murder, and history with a wink and a smile. Her whimsical stage presence and rhythmic ukulele love songs have delighted audiences on both coasts of the United States and across the pond. She also produces the We Heart Ukulele Festival and Fundraiser in Chico, raising funds for music education in local schools. Raised on warm beaches (Hawaii), desert valleys (California), remote mountains (Idaho), and busy streets (New York City), Mandalyn has a unique perspective that is reflected in her songwriting. (MandalynMay.com)
BY KACEY GARDNER PHOTOS MICHELLE CAMY
How did you get into music and performing? I grew up performing in choirs and musical theater, but thought of myself as too shy to perform my own material until more recently. I was traveling through Scotland, making up songs for friends on a ukulele and mountain dulcimer, and through an unexpected series of events, ended up opening a music festival. It changed my life. How would you describe the music you write and perform? Any influences? It varies. I used to be more focused on vocal jazz, modal Celtic, and funky chord changes. More recently I’ve been writing jam friendly, bluegrassy folk. My influences include ’60s folk, musical theater, ’80s pop, and late ’90s electronica. Also, I love mix tapes and hearing what other people love. What is it about ukulele that you love? So many things! It’s an excellent first instrument, is accessible to all ages, and its tuning gives it that lovely, happy sound. Love songs write themselves on an ukulele. :) What projects are you currently involved in? The Electric Canyon Convergence, Sons of Jefferson, Barefoot and the Beat, Five Cents Sharp and a Nickel Short, and the Hildebeests. I also perform solo shows as Mandalyn May. On August 8, I have a show with the Harmed Brothers at the 1078 Gallery, and they are excellent musicians so I’m looking forward to that.
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UPGRADEDLIVING.COM AUGUST 2015
What is the best thing about what you do? Getting to teach as well as perform. It’s a great balance. I really enjoy having a one-on-one connection with my private students, and I get to encourage kids and adults alike to be good beginners, stay positive, and keep practicing! Is there something you haven’t done that you would like to do? Record a killer album with local and international musicians. How did you end up in Chico and what do you think of the community here, particularly the music scene? I was offered a job here teaching music in an after school program. It’s a great town, small enough that you run into all your favorite people at the co-op, and big enough that there are always new things happening. The music and arts scene is impressive for a town this size. Chikoko, Uncle Dad’s Art Collective, Energy Plant, Chico Breaks the Record — all great projects with folks who are working to push the envelope of what can be achieved here, musically, artistically, and financially. Anything else you’d like to add? Yes! Ukulele Camp is happening soon — check the website to find out more: www.mandalynmay.com. All learners welcome!
SIZZLING SUMMER SALE
August 4 through August 8 Save 20% on all Art Glass in the Gallery
ORIENT & FLUME ART GLASS A Chico Tradition since 1972 2161 Park Avenue, Chico (530) 893-0373, Ext. 3 Gallery Hours: Monday - Saturday 10am-5pm
LOCAL ARTISTS
We have the largest selection of local jewelry artisans CLASSES - BEAD SHOP Hours: Mon 1-5 | closed Tues | Wed-Sat 11-5 | Sun 11-3
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A SMALL CITY WITH BIG A SOUND
T
By Matthew Manfredi
here I was, on a Tuesday afternoon in midApril, at The Tackle Box Bar And Grill. The doors close behind me and suddenly, I was standing in front of a fully occupied bar, a dance floor is packed with people of all ages, and music is emanating from the massive, newly constructed stage. Chico Breaks The Record was in full swing, changing the minds of the skeptics and disbelievers, showing that a community can really work together. (If you haven’t read, watched, or been informed through some sort of media about the monthlong musical effort to break the Guinness World Record for the Longest Multi-Artist Concert, then please, give me the address of the rock you have been living under, and I will personally come to your place of living and flip it over.)
The eclecticism of the Chico music scene was on display throughout the whole month but without volunteers, participants, and musicians none of this would have been possible. Every minute, every song, and every musical act had to be closely watched and recorded. “The ‘shot clock’ was brutal. As a drummer, as soon as you finish the song, you have exactly enough time to sit back, take a breath, and count off the next one. You could only sneak in a drink if you’re lucky. As spectator
Julian Ruck along with Emily Rose, the creative minds behind this event, transformed their lives to make Chico Breaks The Record a success. And, after a month packed with power outages, late nights, early mornings, and close, tedious attention to time, they pulled the community together for the much-deserved triumph. “The biggest thing I took away from the experience was the sense of community and comradery. Strangers were shaking
and performer, the sense of urgency that filled the room was intense.” —Cody Johns, drummer of Radio Relapse and Get Foxy
Bands got to see other bands that they
“It’s good to be getting back into a routine
otherwise wouldn’t get to see. Instead of
I’m familiar with … but you really can’t go
the musical community acting like crabs
home again — it’s just never the same. My
in a barrel climbing over each other to get
daily life is wildly different than it was just a
to the top, we realized that the top is ac-
few months ago, and in a lot of ways, I sup-
cessible to everybody if we work together,
pose that was the plan.”
—Blender Fist, bassist of Maker’s Mile, Chico Breaks The Record House Band 62
UPGRADEDLIVING.COM AUGUST 2015
“We would rush into an open mike, everybody would perform and Julian would tell the story of what happened in Chico. Every city,
All throughout April and into the first few days of May, lines continued forming out of The Tackle Box doorway, spilling out into the parking lot. After much hard work, volunteering and keeping Chico Breaks The Record afloat, Ruck resumes his normal routine in the local music community.
strangers’ hands and becoming friends.
and that’s what we did....”
An epic prolog culminated by Rose, called Evidence Across America gathered musicians from Chico’s diverse music scene and took them to over twenty cities across the country. Much like the name entitles, the trek was a display, a mobile performance of what actually happened through the month of April in our small city with a big sound. After a frantic ferry ride from New Jersey, Julian and Emily made their way through New York City. With a box containing the evidence documenting those days in April and Early May, the two hand-delivered to the Guinness World Headquarters, putting the small city with a big sound in the record books.
—Julian Ruck, Chico Breaks The Record Co-coordinator and Creator
every venue greeted us with open arms. It was an amazing experience.” —Emily Rose, Co-Coordinator of Chico Breaks The Record
COMMUNITY CALENDAR KIRSHNER AUGUST 1–21 Art in the Park 2015 Presented by Chico Art Center Chico City Plaza, during Friday Night Concerts
AUGUST 16 Chico Bridal Show Silver Dollar Fairgrounds, Chico 11:30 AM–3:00 PM www.chicobridalshow.com
AUGUST 6 This Is Thriller! A musical based on the music of Michael Jackson Presented by Uncle Dad’s Art Collective The Blue Room Theatre 139 W First St., Chico Thursdays–Sundays, 7:30 PM Tickets available at the door
AUGUST 22 Friends of the Library Book Sale Paradise Public Library 5922 Clark Road, Paradise 10:00 AM–3:00 PM
AUGUST 4 National Night Out Community Block Party Sank Park Montgomery and Fourth St., Oroville 4:00 PM–9:00 PM Information: 530-538-2467 AUGUST 7 Stansbury Home Ice Cream Social 307 W Fifth St., Chico 6:00 PM www.stansburyhome.org/events AUGUST 9 Northern California Ballet Summer Workshop Performance Paradise Performing Arts Center FREE www.northerncaliforniaballet.com AUGUST 11 World Breastfeeding Week Event Enloe Conference Center 1528 Esplanade, Chico 9:00 AM–12:00 PM www.enloe.org/community-health/classes AUGUST 13 Hot August Nights Car Show Feather Canyon Retirement Community 5900 Canyon View Drive, Paradise 6:30 PM Information: 530-877-2207
AUGUST 25 Chico Performances Presents: The Waifs Laxson Auditorium West First and Salem Streets, Chico Tickets: www.csuchico.edu/upe/performance AUGUST 27–30 Butte County Fair Butte County Fair Grounds 199 East Hazel St., Gridley www.buttecountyfair.org AUGUST 29 Concours de la Chapelle Classic European Car Show Chapelle de L’Artiste Chateau & Retreat 3300 Inspiration Lane, Paradise Tickets: www.concourschapelle.com/tickets Full Moon/Moonlight Paddle Forebay Aquatic Center Hwy. 70 and Garden Drive, Oroville Registration: forebayaquaticcenter.com AUGUST 30 Charity Bridal Event & Trunk Show Canyon Oaks Country Club 999 Yosemite Drive, Chico Information & Registration: bridesagainstbreastcancer.org
Cliff, a black-tailed deer, joined us from another facility after being injured at birth. Though he cannot be released back into the wild due to his injury, he receives excellent care and enjoys his companions, Thurston, Toby, and Wentz the wallaby. He is an ambassador for our native species rehabilitation and release program. Name: Cliff Age: 2 years Native Habitat: Temperate rain forests of the North American Pacific Coast Food: In the wild, variety of vegetation including lichens, Douglas fir, red huckleberry, and poison oak. At Kirshner, grain, alfalfa hay, grasses, and fruits and vegetables native to his natural habitat. Fun Fact: Black-tailed deer have excellent sense of smell and hearing. They can communicate by leaving scent trails, and their large ears can move independently of one-another to focus on sound in different directions. Important: Mother deer will often leave their babies alone while grazing, for many hours up to a full day. It is VERY important that you leave the baby alone, even if the hiding spot doesn’t seem concealed. California state law protects all wildlife native to California. It is against the law to remove any native species from the wild and keep them as pets. If you see an injured deer, please contact the proper authorities such as California Fish and Wildlife or local rehabbers. Barry R. Kirshner Wildlife Sanctuary and Educational Center Hours: Tuesday – Sunday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. including holidays, rain or shine! Phone: 530-533-1000 No appointments are necessary, but please call ahead for guided tours. www.kirshner.org
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Center for Breast Health at Oroville Hospital Now Featuring 3D Mammography
3D mammography
enables physicians to detect cancers earlier, easier and with more accuracy. The Center for Breast Health provides an integrated network of physicians offering a comprehensive and collaborative approach to health.
To schedule your 3D mammogram call Valley Women’s Imaging at 530-532-8676.
Changing the way breast cancer is screened, diagnosed and treated.