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Q&A
WITH DR. HODARI SKINTYTE™ What is SkinTyte™? SkinTyte is a non-invasive way to tighten skin and reduce the laxity of the face and body using energy from light waves and heat.
What can SkinTyte™ treat or target? SkinTyte can be applied to any area of the body where undesirable or excessive skin laxity exists. Commonly treated areas include the neck, jowls, cheeks, arms, thighs, and abdomen.
What is the downtime with this treatment? There is zero downtime. The treatment is safe because lower levels of energy are used and it can be used on all skin colors and skin types. It can be done any time of year and is commonly administered in the summertime when other (sun-sensitive) treatments can not be administered. In addition, the treatments are 100% painless.
How many sessions of SkinTyte™ will I need? Because the energy applied is low and there is no downtime, the best results are seen with multiple treatments. We recommend starting with a series of 5. For best results, an additional series of 5 can also be administered. In addition, the treatments are easily administered alongside other treatments like Photofacials or Halo laser treatments. 2
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FROM THE EDITOR February 2018. My first issue as Editor-in-Chief. I was hired over New Year’s weekend the month before, which meant the January issue was about to be released. Hence, my new found purpose in life came with the caveat that my life was about to speed up. Whereas I didn’t need it, I find myself embracing the pace of publishing. Beyond that, the job remains a never-ending learning curve. I am blessed with the support of Jason and his tireless experience, coupled with the patience of Aveed who willingly fills the gaps of my lack of computer savvy. Like this month when I managed to make an article absolutely disappear. In the end, to me, the magazine is not about the community but rather being immersed in it. I have interviewed a donkey and our university president, a 4th grade chess champ and four magical streets dotting our city’s landscape. This feels more like a privilege than any sort of entitlement. It is the most fun, while equally difficult, thing I have ever done. Our current issue arrives as a perfect example. I got to meet Diane Puckett and Erika Birkholm, two remarkable community wonders. I did not interview either. I got to know them through the eyes, ears, and words of one of our fabulous writers, Michelle Brandon. Editing each piece in the magazine is like a monthly trip to a new urban adventure. Diane, the founding executive director of the Peg Taylor Center, was our Local Spotlight. Upon reading the piece, one might think ‘Local Legend’ would be a better fit. The amazing Little Red Hen conglomerate and its uplifting story graces our cover. Erika Birkholm, senior director, is like the idle of a well-tuned motor. Her steady leadership and humble demeanor mirrors the quiet impact of this wildly wonderful community gem. Once you have met these two shining stars, keep reading. From front to back, our February issue is worth the read. The Backpage is closing in on its 50th entry. If nothing else, we have managed to get spellcheck to accept our intentional compound word. To be sure, this experience, for me, is magical, challenging, nerve racking, energizing, and fun. So, for fun and transparency, I turned to my good friend Robert Fulghum for this month’s inspiration. No, I have never met him, but have read everything he has written, and, when you do that, you have a guaranteed new friend. I took ownership of his most acclaimed piece - All I Ever Need to Know I Learned in Kindergarten, and I used it as a mirror.
UPGRADED LIVING STAFF AVEED KHAKI Publisher/Owner KEVIN DOLAN Editor-in-Chief JASON CORONA Sales Director BEAU VANDERMATE General Swiss Army Knife
SHELLY BRANDON Writer TIM MILHORN Writer
CONTRIBUTORS DOUG LOVE
SWEENEY & MICHEL
Real Estate
Finance
HRiQ
DERM BAR
Human Resources
Beauty
RYAN STEFANELLI
JESSICA WILKERSON
Tacos
Mental Health
For editorial or general magazine inquiries, please contact: Kevin Dolan kevin@upgradedliving.com
Kevin Dolan Editor-in-Chief
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For sales inquiries, please contact: Jason Corona, 530.591.2634 jason@UpgradedLiving.com
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CONTENTS | FEBRUARY 2022 COMMUNITY
POTPOURRI
16 We’re delighted to highlight former PV—now Butte—soccer phenom Austin Matthews, in this month's Cool Kid
37 Love advice from a real estate specialist? Yes, and you pay close attention
19 More than a connecting road of neighboring cities, the history behind the lanes that overlook Butte Creek Canyon 24 What holds 1.1 trillion gallons of dam water and offers breathtaking views in Oroville? You guessed it.
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27 Questions about the past? Meet Gene “Doc” Russell, detective of history in all things Glenn County 37 Local Spotlight, Diane Puckett of the Peg Taylor Center, speaks on the independence and dignity of a rehabilitating person 47 The professional side of play. Entrepreneurship, community, and keeping relationships alive with Paul and Erika Fink
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FOOD 11 The new Lassen Steakhouse. Rave reviews and the reimagination of an old favorite. 50 Chef Ed Hawk and the culinary inspiration behind Oroville’s bustling brunch success, Ethan's Eatery 52 Discover trompo de adobada at J's Tacos & Beer in this month's installment of Taco Tracker 56 Soup is on! A tale of two chilis as we go both meaty and vegetarian in our foodie review
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54 Coffee and conversations with strangers in our Valentine-themed caffeinated chatter 58 If you hear your significant other playing songs on this page often, you may have a problem
FEATURE 37 A small glimpse into more than you could ever know about the little organization that could. Little Red Hen defeats all odds in not only helping children with developmental disabilities enjoy a safe, thriving environment, but also those as adults with a career
ON THE COVER: LITTLE RED HEN PHOTO BY: DIANE NICOLE PHOTOGRAPHY DESIGN BY: ERIK BROWN
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PHOTOS BY BEAU VANDERMATE
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History Revived: The rebirth of lassen steakhouse PHOTOS BY BEAU VANDERMATE
It’s impossible to miss the giant lodgestyle building on the stretch of Highway 99 running through Vina. With its enormous longhorn skull and lasso perched perfectly above the entrance, it’s nothing short of a landmark for the small town and has been since its opening in 1928. Having served so many generations in various forms and under various names, Lassen Steakhouse is steeped in history, and nearby residents certainly won’t let you forget it. The mere mention of the restaurant seems to send them into a trancelike state—the corner of their lips inch up, their eyes turn toward the sky, and they happily sigh before recalling some of their favorite memories shared within. Indeed, this isn’t common to only residents of the towns adjacent to Vina; we found the same to be true of so many we interviewed in Chico as well. It seems the majority of people in our neck of the woods have a tale to tell about good times spent at Lassen Steakhouse, and its new owners, Wes and Jenn Salisbury, plan on adding to those heartwarming memories for years to come. Growing up in Ukiah, Wes was ready for a change of scenery shortly after graduating
high school. He moved to Arizona and began working in a skilled-nursing center where he received his first introduction to the world of food service, cooking meals for over 100 residents three times each day. “I was working for my now-brother-in-law.” Wes recalled, “It was the perfect opportunity to get my feet wet, and believe me, it was a trial by fire. As they say, ‘if you can’t stand the heat, get out of the kitchen.’ There were different personalities, no shortage of stress, and it was go-go-go from prep to clean-up each day. I quickly learned the importance of consistency and teamwork while working on that line. It taught me how to cook institutional-style, which I’ve always felt was a useful first step in my kitchen training.” Within Wes’ first year at the skilled-nursing center, the administration decided to switch gears and go from a standard meal plan for residents to something completely different. The shift gave him the unexpected opportunity to learn the other side of cooking in a commercial kitchen. “I remember when we got the news things were changing at the facility, it came as a bit of a surprise.” Wes laughed, “We had
been cooking for 100 people at a time when I started, and the center decided to change from having a set meal program to creating a full menu where residents could order whatever they liked—a full dining experience, just like a restaurant, for three meals each day. There were only two of us cooking in the kitchen, so it was a big shift from what we’d been doing, but we adapted and made it work. It was like opening a new restaurant and was my first taste of what that experience was like. What I remember most is how it affected the residents. Many were living such a resigned life, and their meals were the main thing they looked forward to. The simple change of giving them a full menu of options, and cooking individual meals separately for each of them, brought a different level of quality to their lives. The looks on their faces while enjoying their meals, as well as the thanks we received, were more valuable to me than anything else could have been. It honestly taught me how much of a difference a bit of extra time and care could make in someone’s life. It’s something that has stuck with me ever since.” Wes eventually grew homesick for Northern 11
so friendly and welcoming it immediately felt like home. Anytime people would ask us where we moved, we would exclaim, ‘Vina!’ They would ask where Vina was, and we would use Lassen Steakhouse as the landmark. Each time we did, we would hear a heartwarming story of an experience the person once had there—some recent, and some many decades old. Wes and I talked about how exciting it would be to have a restaurant like that ourselves someday, and then fate just stepped right in. We saw a forsale sign go up on the building in 2021, and we thought, ‘this is a sign,’ which it obviously was because it was literally hanging on the building. We spoke to my mom about the property, made an appointment to see it, and fell in love with it just like we did with our home in Vina. Not only was the restaurant incredible, but the grounds were absolutely stunning. She had ideas for what she wanted to do with the land—farmers markets, craft fairs, and a wedding venue— and we had ideas of what we wanted to do with the restaurant, so we partnered to make all of our dreams come true. We purchased the property in November, and we’ve been running non-stop ever since.”
California and decided to visit a friend from high school who was attending Chico State. Unsurprisingly, as so many do, he decided to stay. Wes began working at a wholesale bakery called Oogolo Foods and picked up extra hours at the Downtown Chico Celestino’s Pizza. Over the years, he worked at a number of Downtown bars and restaurants, including Joe’s and Parkside Tap House before meeting Jenn and deciding to pursue a career in teaching. He retired his kitchen apron, earned his degree in liberal studies from Azusa Pacific, and began substitute teaching. Wes and Jenn were in the market to buy a home in Chico when the Camp Fire hit in 2018, sending prices through the roof and housing availability to a historic low. They 12
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continued their search outside the area, finally finding a beautiful home the following year in Vina that was perfect for them. A short drive from town, it gave their family the space they needed and a tightly-knit community they fell in love with.
Wes and Jenn’s ideas included a complete reimagining of what this iconic steakhouse should offer. “We wanted a restaurant that would be multi-use.” Wes said, “Our dream was to create a place where visitors could celebrate a fancy special occasion or stop by and enjoy a burger after work. Most importantly, we wanted to make sure customers could bring the whole family, not break the bank, and all find something they loved. We have three girls, and two are picky as heck. We wanted to cater to the every-family, because we are that family. We knew if we controlled the quality and consistency of our service and food that we could successfully build a place everyone could enjoy.”
“I grew up in Orland, so I was more than acquainted with small towns.” Jenn started, “My mother, Dr. Joni Samples, was the first female superintendent of schools in Glenn County, and I always loved how supportive everyone was of our family. There’s notithing quite like growing up in a small town, and though I moved to Chico at 18 to begin my career in administration, I found it to have the exact same supportive smalltown vibe. Even though Vina was so close, it was brand new to us, but everyone was
Wes and Jenn jumped right in and ambitiously set out to have Lassen Steakhouse reopened by the start of 2022, setting a hard date of January 8th for their opening. Though Wes had experience working in restaurants, he had yet to manage one or open one from scratch. Working in administration and insurance, Jenn was new to the entire industry. Neither let the lack of experience stop them from learning everything they needed to in the short amount of time available. They
made the necessary phone calls, acquired the needed permits, leaned on friends for advice, and within two short months were as ready to open their doors as they could be. Wes and Jenn welcomed guests to their grand opening on January 8th, and reservations have been booked out ever since. “We honestly couldn’t have imagined any of this, not even in our wildest dreams!” Wes said with tears in his eyes, “The support we’ve seen in the past few weeks has just been overwhelming, and though we’ve had far more visitors than we ever expected, everyone has been so wonderful and patient in helping us work through everything in finding our legs in the new restaurant. We couldn’t be more thankful or excited for the future.” The experience at Lassen Steakhouse is rather unexpected. Most of us have grown accustomed to hefty bills when finishing our meals at local steakhouses, eventually visiting only for special occasions. The menu at Lassen Steakhouse is set up quite differently and totally by design, with most items priced at half of what you’d pay elsewhere. “We wanted to make the restaurant as accessible to as many people as possible, so we priced everything with that in mind.” Jenn said, “If we can keep seats filled with lower prices, without sacrificing quality, then we can make smaller margins per customer and still be successful. We like to think of our model like In-N-Out Burger—their prices are fair, their quality is impeccable, they always have a line around the block, and everyone leaves happy.” Side-by-side with the other steakhouses in town, their menu proves their commitment to that mission. A 12-ounce New York strip steak runs just $21, while the average of other steakhouses is $42. A 12-ounce ribeye is priced at $25, while the average in town is $47. An 8-ounce filet-mignon runs $29, while the average in town is $49. To top it off, their steaks are all served with a choice of soup or salad; a choice of vegetables including asparagus, brussel sprouts, or squash medley; and one additional side consisting of baked potato, roasted red mashed potato, rice pilaf, or macaroni and cheese—a considerable added value over the offerings of others. All beef is sourced from R&R Quality Meats & Seafood in 13
Redding, all steaks are hand-cut and aged in house, and the server will take your order for a different size cut even if it’s not on the menu to make sure the meal is just right. Visitors will find similar differences in pricing across the rest of their menu as well. For poultry and seafood lovers, there’s grilled chicken breast, shrimp scampi, and lemon butter cod. The pasta menu offers fettuccine Alfredo and chicken cacciatore, while the list of soup, salads, and appetizers is a menu unto itself. Burger lovers will fall for the ½ pound Vina Burger or Chicken Vina Burger with French fries or onion rings for just $11, and children have their own menu with classics they’re sure to love, portions that are appropriate, and prices that’ll make sense to their parents. Not to be outdone, Lassen Steakhouse offers a full bar with a delicious cocktail menu, and a dessert menu prepared in-house by Jenn daily which includes Tiramisu, cheesecake, and a triple-chocolate brownie with a scoop of ice cream on top. “You’ll get the same standard here every single time.” Wes promised, “Our prices are quite a bit lower than everyone else, and we want to see people once or twice a month rather than once or twice a year.” To ensure that, Wes and Jenn have assembled an incredible staff that appears insistent on providing exemplary customer service at every opportunity, adding yet another reason to return. “We set our in-house minimum wage at $17/hour before tips from the start and wanted to make sure we were taking care of our team by paying them a living wage.” Jenn continued, “We wouldn’t be able to do what we do without them, and their happiness translates directly to customer satisfaction. There’s no way to put a price on that.” Having been open for just under one month, Lassen Steakhouse is already making a name for itself with consistent glowing reviews, some of which you’ll find at the end of this article, and an army of newfound fans. “There’s so much history here.” Jenn said, “We feel it each day when we walk in the building and couldn’t be more blessed to be part of it. Along with New Clairvaux, it has stood as a symbol of this town for nearly 100 years, and we’re committed to making sure it continues long into the future.” Wes continued, “Beyond the history, there’s so much pride in this area. So many people have stopped in from Corning, Los Molinos, and Dairyville to tell us their stories, congratulate us on the opening, show their support, and welcome us to the area. It feels like one big family, and we are thrilled to be here.” Lassen Steakhouse is currently open for dinner Thursday through Sunday from 4pm-10pm, with the bar opening for pre-dinner drinks at 3pm. Reservations are highly recommended as the restaurant fills up quickly and can be made via phone at (530) 839-2838 or online at www.lassensteak.com They plan on starting their lunch service in the coming months along with a champagne brunch on the weekends, and Joni has plans to launch her many ideas for the grounds—including the farmers markets, craft fairs, and wedding venue—in the summer. Stop in to experience all this iconic steakhouse has to offer and support these locals who we couldn’t be more impressed by. As always, we’ll look forward to seeing you there.
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What others have to say “All we can say is WOW. The food, the service, price, and atmosphere at Lassen Steakhouse are all unbeatable. The wine list is great, and includes wines from New Clairvaux, they use local Monkey Face rum for their rum cocktails, and their beef comes from R&R meats in Redding. We were served by Lara, who was so friendly and attentive. Everything we ate was perfect. We both ordered our steaks medium rare, and they were on point. All the sides were excellent, and our $5 whiskey cocktails were great. Can’t beat $5 for an old fashioned. I never would have expected such smooth and speedy service from such a new establishment, but they killed it. Our food was out within 20 minutes after ordering. The owner even came by our table to check in on us. We’ll definitely be back.” -Bailey Groenningsæter “Return visit to Lassen Steakhouse, Saturday. Chose salad w/balsamic vinaigrette instead of chicken gumbo soup tonight. Spring greens were fresh. We ordered prime rib, MR. Tim had asparagus and a baked potato, and I had a double order of Brussels sprouts, which were cooked to perfection! Another great meal here! Our server was Lara, a vivacious young lady who immediately set the tone for a pleasant experience here. That is, only after watching the bartender, Owen, make our martinis with such precision, and these cocktails were perfect! (Shaken, not stirred. Just the way 007 prefers). Reservations are encouraged! Being senior citizens, we made our reservations for 4:00PM.” - Vickie Linnet “Went to Lassen steakhouse with my partner and was blown away by the quality of food and the amazing service! We made reservations for 7:30 and were seated promptly. AJ was our server, but all the waitresses helped out whenever possible, especially Shelly—she kicked butt!! I was sad that there were no more prime ribs left, which is what I was excited for, but I understand the risk/reward of cooking too much prime rib. I am glad they were able to sell out of it (but wish I was able to get a slice lol). We got some of their BBQ wings to start off as an appetizer, and they were decent size wings and the sauce was very good. I settled with a 16 oz New York strip with Brussels sprouts and a baked potato. The steak was cooked medium to perfect temperature, Brussels sprouts were cooked perfectly, and baked potato was good too—just added a little pepper to it and it made it even better. My partner had the shrimp scampi with asparagus, and she loved every bite of it. This meal was affordable for a high quality steakhouse!! What blew me away was the owner coming to talk to every table before they paid to make sure everything went well and if there was anything he could fix before we pay. We had a good conversation about the restaurant and just about life, he seems like a great guy who is passionate about his work. We will definitely be here again and I will definitely make reservations for an earlier time so I can get my prime rib!” -Tony Rolon 15
WRITTEN BY TIM MILHORN
Keeping his eye on the goal When Austin Matthews went to freshman orientation at Pleasant Valley High School in Chico, he didn’t even realize the school had a soccer team, even though he’d been playing for Butte United and Chico Cal soccer clubs. “Someone asked me at freshman orientation what sports I’d be playing at P.V.,” he said. “I really didn’t know they had sports. I thought it was all clubs, like in Europe.” As the future would have it, not only did Austin join the P.V. soccer team, he became the starting varsity goalkeeper. He began playing in the midst of their record-breaking, 98-game undefeated run—another something he didn’t know about. Austin extended that streak by stopping penalty kicks in one of his first games, making him instantly famous on campus. You might ask how a soccer player who 16
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played for two highly successful clubs under well-known coaches like Ian Byrd and Eric Alanis wouldn’t know about P.V. soccer. Austin has an answer, and it involves his father, local contractor Mark Selkirk, who sadly passed away in September of 2019 from cancer. “Starting in elementary school, I’d go and work with my dad after school,” he said. “We always figured I’d follow in his footsteps, so I spent hours and hours on construction sites. I didn’t really follow local sports.” The hard work and guidance from dad can be seen to this day on the soccer field, where Austin was named the 2021 Golden Valley Conference Goalkeeper of the Year. “My dad was hard on me, but I appreciate it as I look back,” said Austin. “The work ethic I have today came from my dad
because of the days I spent working with him.” That work ethic also contributed to repeated EAL All League honors at P.V. as well as an MVP award. Soccer has also taken him to Butte College, where he received a bit of a culture shock as a freshman. “I was one of the youngest players on the team with players from all over the world. Their enthusiasm and dedication to soccer has helped me love the game.” He credits coach Ross Sandberg with creating a family atmosphere and the ability to bring European and South American players together with local Americans to form a team. “The Brazilian players were incredibly skilled and creative. Their style was so different from soccer in America,” he said. “And the European players brought a determination and physical style of play to the team and helped create a positive chemistry this season.” The melding of the different styles has brought success to Butte College. Matthews compiled a 1.16 goals against average and only allowed 18 goals all season. Butte’s defense was one of the stingiest in the state, and Matthews anchored the back line, making 70 saves during the season. If it wasn’t for soccer, Austin may not have even attended Butte College. “With my construction background I just saw myself following in my dad’s footsteps. I already have projects lined up—a few I inherited from my dad.” As a matter of fact, last year he hired a number of Butte players to help him clean out a house filled with various building materials and furniture. “There’s one house out in Nord that needs a lot of work done on it. I spend free time out there slowly getting it into shape, and it helps me keep my focus on construction.” Austin’s mom, Amber Matthews, works at Pleasant Valley High, and she has encouraged him to take the path he chooses. “I’m hoping with my soccer ability and good grades, I can go to a four-year college,” said Austin. “I see coaching in my future—maybe even real estate. I know I’d like to become involved with the local soccer clubs.”
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WRITTEN BY KEVIN DOLAN | PHOTOS BY BEAU VANDERMATE
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WRITTEN BY KEVIN DOLAN | PHOTOS BY BEAU VANDERMATE
A Pleasant Ascent on the way up to the sky Skyway is the main road that leads from Chico to nearby Paradise. East Park Avenue turns into Skyway east of Notre Dame Boulevard where the exit off Highway 99’s overpass intersects the two roads sharing the same byway. It exits Chico after a short stint through commercial and medical buildings, right as the view suddenly changes to foothills, trees, and giant rocks. Finally, the road takes two sweeping curves before making its ascent. The climb is evident, and the view gets more breathtaking before the Skyway bisects the town of Paradise and continues north through Magalia. With the climb completed, the road continues, forging onward as a windy mountain road through the small towns of Stirling City and Inskip before reaching the Bambi Inn in Butte Meadows. It may be known as the main road leading from Chico to nearby Paradise, but there is so much more to the Skyway than that. Coming up with the name has its very own story. In 1942, a contest was held to name the much-needed road connecting Chico and Paradise. Marilyn Rocha, a Chico State student, entered it along with many others. Rocha not only came up
with the winning idea, Skyway, but also received a $50 gift certificate to Oser’s, the iconic department store once housed where the current Woodstock’s recently took over. Marilyn Rocha, the Chico State coed, used the gift certificate to buy her wedding dress. Looking back during an interview, she wasn’t sure how she came up with the name in the first place. “It came to me in the middle of the night. It must have been percolating in my brain,” she said. However it happened to come to her, it is just so difficult to imagine the Skyway by any other name. Initially a two-lane thoroughfare, the Skyway has found itself referred to as other names based on both tragedy and romance. Long before it became the four-lane highway to the sky, speed was an ever-present problem. Descending down to the final sharp curve was better done with the foot off the accelerator. With the additional lane in place, speed became evident either way, causing accidents of both single and multi-vehicle wrecks. The title ‘Blood Alley’ soon became a not-so-wanted nickname for this highly-revered roadway. On another note altogether, Lookout Point is located 19
along the Skyway, at its highest peak before entering the town of Paradise. The point became known for two completely different reasons. It became well known as people drove their vehicles off into the canyon from the Skyway’s first curve. Some planned, some not, and eventually vehicles were simply pushed off the wide open lookout simply to get rid of them. That was eventually prevented by heavyduty guard rails. On another note, barrier or not, the view back down to the valley and just above the canyon is spectacular. Parking on the point to view a sunset, or waiting for darkness to marvel at the city lights became a thing. It changed the name from Lookout Point to Lover’s Leap. Be it local Paradise couples, or young Chicoans making their way up to witness the aura, the roadside turnout was super popular with the young at heart, sharing their hearts. Then, when tragedy meets love, even the entire ambiance of the Ridge’s romantic spot can take its own turn. Hanging key and combination locks have gradually become more prevalent on the Lookout Point fence that overlooks the Butte Creek Canyon on Skyway. With names or initials of couples written on padlocks and secured to the chain link, they are supposed to symbolize unbreakable love. A trend known across the world as love locks. The origin of love locks isn’t entirely certain because they are mentioned in literature and various urban myths throughout history, but since the early 2000s, the practice has grown increasingly popular in Europe. However, much like love itself, not all stories of love 20
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locks end happily ever after. Some of the European cities find the practice to be a nuisance and others even prevent tourists and locals alike from hanging their locks of love. Most notably, Pont des Arts, a pedestrian bridge in Paris, France, began accumulating large amounts of love locks at a fast rate. In the beginning of 2014, authorities estimated there were around 700,000 locks on the rails that added extra weight to the bridge and made it unsafe. That summer, city workers removed all of the locks and replaced the chain side rails with glass to prevent any locks from being attached in the future. While there are much fewer locks at Lookout Point, the couple’s message and meaning appear to be the same. With minor concerns about the weight on the chain link fence, the only real concern, the positive thoughts recognize the spot as a good way for people to express their love. It is enough to allow the next couple to attach their lock to the fence and throw away the key. From negativity that becomes headlines, it’s always good to see people using Lookout Point and enjoying it. The Skyway is used for commuting, traveling, and to utilize the stunning rise of beauty coupled with the eye candy just off the road as one makes their descent. It is simply remarkable for the unique journey it takes from the back porch of Lowes in Chico to the front porch of the Bambi Inn in Butte Meadows. Marilyn Rocha nailed it, and we will forever be grateful.
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What to Expect When You’re Electing
BY RENEE MICHEL, MBA, AND JOE SWEENEY, CFP ®, FINANCIAL ADVISORS AT SWEENEY & MICHEL, LLC
Albeit 10 months away, the midterm elections will be at the forefront of our newsfeed and daily lives soon. For those of us in California, we will be voting on one Senate seat and 52 seats in the House. Change and uncertainty go hand-in-hand, and that’s usually reflected in market behavior leading up to elections. Capital Group examined 85 years of stock market data (S&P 500) to learn how midterm elections affect the financial markets. Two of their findings: Midterm elections usually result in the President’s party losing representation in Congress. Over the past 21 midterm elections, the President’s party has lost an average of 30 seats in the House and an average of four seats in the Senate. For Investors: Since losing seats is so common, it’s usually priced into the markets early in the year. The unknowns about the political power shift have always led to increased volatility early on. Markets, on average, tend to move sideways during most of the midterm election years – not gaining much momentum until shortly before election day. This doesn’t mean the market stays flat: markets tend to take 2 steps forward and 2 steps back until outcomes are certified. For Investors: Despite the uncertainty leading up to an election, markets tend to rally when results are getting easier to predict and tend to rise after the polls close and winners are officially declared. In the end, midterm elections generate a lot of noise. However, the reality is that long-term equity returns are generated by the value of individual companies. A prudent investor should maintain a long-term focus, and having an investment wish list is a good coping strategy for choppy markets. Volatility can create price opportunities for discerning investors. Key Takeaway: Don’t let electoral disappointment turn into financial disappointment as well. Renée Michel, MBA and Joe Sweeney, CFP® | 196 Cohasset Road, Suite 100, Chico CA 95926 (530) 487-1777 | renee@sweeneymichel.com | joe@sweeneymichel.com | www.sweeneymichel.com This is not tax advice. | Sweeney & Michel, LLC is a Registered Investment Adviser. This brochure is solely for informational purposes. Advisory services are only offered to clients or prospective clients where Sweeney & Michel, LLC and its representatives are properly licensed or exempt from licensure. Past performance is no guarantee of future returns. Investing involves risk and possible loss of principal capital. No advice may be rendered by Sweeney & Michel, LLC unless a client service agreement is in place. 22
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In the early 1960’s, thousands of construction workers and their families arrived in Oroville to help construct what would be known as the largest earthfill dam in the world. The dam was to sit about nine miles northeast of town and construction of the dam would not only provide hundreds of jobs for the community, but it also would be responsible for flood control, electric power, recreation, and providing water to California residents. At the time, builders underestimated the sheer size of the dam and would soon come to the realization that additional city planning would be needed. There were roads to be added, along with bridges and railroads. In 1968, the behemoth of a dam was completed, standing at a staggering 770 feet with the ability to contain 1.1 trillion gallons of water, a volume that is truly unimaginable. Visiting the Oroville Dam is a treat in itself. The sheer size is a marvel, and the breathtaking views provide an ambiance that is sure to bring peace to anyone’s soul. As you drive up Canyon Drive, the enormity of the dam begins to come into focus. For those who haven't experienced 24
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it, it's utterly jaw dropping. The experience makes you wish you could fly to take it all in from above. If you find yourself wanting a closer peek at the action, and a chance to talk with someone about the rich history of the Oroville Dam, I highly recommend signing up for a tour. They will guide you through the construction process and bring you up close to better understand the complexity of the structure. The visitor center also features a viewing tower that is strategically placed to give you a full 360-degree bird’s-eye view of the surrounding areas. The high-powered telescopes make it easy to view the lake, Sierra Nevadas, valley foothills, and the Sutter Buttes, which happen to be the smallest mountain range in the world! While the dam provided much needed protection from the threats of deadly floods, there was another side of the coin that was left behind—the natural ecosystem. The dam completely blocked the migrations of chinook salmon and steelhead trout in the Feather River. Realizing this major issue in 1967, the
WRITTEN BY BEAU VANDERMATE | PHOTO COURTESY CALIFORNIA DEPARTMENT OF WATER RESOURCES
Views from every angle
WRITTEN BY BEAU VANDERMATE | PHOTO COURTESY CALIFORNIA DEPARTMENT OF WATER RESOURCES
California Department of Fish and Game set out to complete what's known today as the Feather River Fish Hatchery. Home to a fish ladder, it allowed fish to climb upstream as they naturally would inseason. The hatchery is located on the north bank of the Feather River and is open for visitors daily. The Oroville Dam has protected surrounding communities from floods for decades and will continue to do so for many more. Having the largest dam in America right in our own backyard is a pretty unique thing. Visitors from near and far make the trek to Oroville to see for themselves the singular beauty and awe-striking size. If you haven't already checked it out, take the time to do so. It’s one of those urban outings where you’ll enjoy every minute. The Lake Oroville Visitor Center at 917 Kelly Ridge Road is a source of information far beyond the dam’s rich history. You will discover the lake offers a wide variety of outdoor activities including camping, picnicking, horseback riding, hiking, sail and power boating, water-skiing, fishing, swimming, boat-in camping, floating campsites, and horse camping. In addition, the Department of Water Resources operates the visitor center complex atop Kelly Ridge which overlooks the lake and dam. Here, an audio-visual room features displays including a history of the dam construction and State Water Project as well as a historic view of the Native people that inhabit the Lake Oroville Area. As mentioned earlier, it is capped off by a 47-foot viewing tower allowing visitors the opportunity to have a panoramic view of the dam and beautiful lake. And oh, how worth the trip it is! Do yourself a favor and stop by to see one of the most beautiful gems in all of Northern California.
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WRITTEN BY TIM MILHORN
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WRITTEN BY TIM MILHORN
A detective of history Quiet, humble, self-effacing, calm demeanor, extremely intelligent, yet possessing a sharp and dry sense of humor are all traits worthy of describing Dr. Gene Russell, retired school teacher, author, local historian, and a man dedicated to the preservation of the past. When it comes to any ‘things’ connected to Orland, Glenn County, or even the Northern Sacramento Valley, “Doc” Russell is the man people go to for answers. If all his accomplishments in
terms of history, leadership, stewardship, and curator of our past were put into this article, there would be no space left over for much of a biography. Indeed, people such as Doc Russell are a rare find these days. “Historians are detectives who delve into the past,” said Russell. “You are always learning, and you must be willing to share that knowledge. I’m always happy to share information,” he added. 27
The all-encompassing phrase “treasure trove” comes to mind when taking a look at the many publications—including articles, compilations, and books—he has authored over the years. To say history and teaching are in Dr. Russell’s blood would be quite accurate: His father, J. A. Russell, taught at Orland High School for many decades and was also the principal for five years. His love of history and teaching was passed on to his son. Gene was born in Orland and graduated from high school in 1960, before attending Chico State and later Utah State University, Logan. He returned to Orland after graduating and began teaching at OHS in 1973. He and his wife, Shirley, a longtime media specialist in Orland Unified, were both inducted into the Glenn County Education Hall of Fame in 2003. They have now been married 54 years, and their children Jay and Addie are Orland High graduates as well. Over the years, Gene has witnessed many changes in the city of Orland. Some of the sad events include the loss of many local businesses and organizations. Downtown Orland used to be a selfcontained shopping district with every type of store needed to sustain small town life, such as: JCPenney, Western Auto, Johansen’s Meat Market, Kountry Kitchen, and a host of other businesses which have gone by the wayside. Local organizations have disappeared as well: the Eagles, Independent Order of Oddfellows, Kiwanis, and Soroptimists. These service organizations were once a staple of Orland life. One organization still going strong in town is The Boy Scouts of America, where Doc Russell was Scoutmaster of Troop 4. On that positive note, Russell said Orland has seen the revitalization of the downtown shopping area where Farwood Restaurant, the Rae Turnbull Art Gallery, the Rusty Wagon, Bless Your Heart Mercantile, and many other small businesses are thriving. The Hicks and Charly building has been remodeled along with the addition of the Honeybee Discovery Building. Additionally, the food and service station cluster on the other side of the freeway have provided needed jobs for teens and college students, and a new Butte College 28
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Center is being built south of town. This compliments the Glenn County Office of Education Center on Walker Street. Now as far as those other accomplishments by Gene Russell. He has authored over seven books on Orland History, been the editor and contributor of Wagon Wheels, a local history journal for the Colusa Historical Society, and has directed the History Camp for 25 years at the Alta Schmidt Museum. He is also past president of the Orland Historical and Cultural Museum, historian for the Orland Alumni Society, and the Federated Church of Orland. Gene is also a former Citizen of the Year recipient and the OAA Alumnus of the Year. However, there is one thing that has eluded Doc Russell all these years. He is looking for a copy of the Guiness Book of World Records edition that included the piece about Orland setting the record for most bars and churches in a town its size. It was printed in the early-to-mid 1960’s. If you have a copy of that edition, please contact Doctor Gene Russell as soon as possible. We wish him well on this personal quest and celebrate his important place at the top of all things pertaining to Orland!
THE TOP FIVE BEST MATTRESSES OF 2022 These top mattresses by Nest Bedding are made in the US, offer a 365-Night Sleep Trial, and ship for free to your doorstep in a single box. EDITOR’S CHOICE
The Sparrow Signature Hybrid
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Luxury pillowtop hybrid, with added edge support. Three firmness levels, ideal for couples. Lifetime Renewal Exchange to increase lifespan.
9.9/10
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9.5/10
The Quail Specialized All Foam
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Breathable foams and cooling cover. Greenguard GOLD and CertiPUR-US® Certified. Two firmness levels.
Provides the best support to growing children. Breathable cover and breathable foams. Starts $399
BEST FOR BACK PAIN
BEST MATTRESS FOR YOUR HEAD
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The Owl Natural Latex Hybrid
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Certified Organic and Wool, Natural Latex. Provides the best support with a pillowtop feel. Sustainably designed without sacrificing comfort.
Okay, not a mattress. But, it is the most comfortable pillow we’ve tested in 2022. 100% customizable to your comfort level, overstuffed intentionally. Cooling, breathable, and washable cover. *30-Night Sleep Trial
We review, you enjoy! |
REVIEWNERD.COM 29
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Skin Care Trilogy! Our skin care regimen at home can really enhance any treatment or procedure that we get at a spa. Lasers, microdermabrasion, fillers, and microneedling can all improve the quality of our skin, but at-home maintenance plays a huge part in keeping the skin healthy and fresh. Vitamin C serums are powerful antioxidants to protect our skin from environmental factors, keep skin tone even and glowing, and enhance sun protection. Retinol products expedite cell turnover by working at night while our skin is at rest. This sloughing leaves the skin smoother by removing the dead skin cells that can build up and make it look dull and uneven. This gentle exfoliation process keeps the skin from getting abraded or inflamed. The next step in your skin care Trifecta will be sunscreen. Wear an SPF of 30 to 50 every day, even when it is raining or overcast. UV rays can penetrate glass, so even driving your car can invite sun damage. Those dark spots, freckles, and red patches are attributed to UV rays breaking down the DNA in the skin cells. Sun damage can evolve into melanoma, basal cell carcinoma, and other skin cancers. Why chance it when there are so many great sunscreens on the market? Skin care experts agree that this combination of products—Vitamin C, Retinol and sunscreen—can give us the best chance of having clear, healthy, glowing skin. Call your skin care professionals recommend the best "3" for your skin! DERM BAR MED-SPA 85 Declaration Dr. Suite 100 Chico, CA 95973 530.342.2672 30
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The Dating Profile of Recruitment You often hear about “Tinder thumb,” the new carpal tunnel syndrome of the younger generation. Here’s how it goes—Billy builds a catchy dating profile with a photo of him on a yacht, a photo of he and his sister, and a photo of him holding a kitten that looks terrified. Billy swipes through 407 potential matches, but feels only 3 of them qualify for the incredible opportunity of going on a date with him to Chili’s. The part that isn’t so obvious is that the 3 potential mates Billy chose are all allergic to cats. Research has shown that people who use dating apps often end up dating a person opposite of what they thought they were looking for. So how does this relate to employment? A stale job listing is about as productive as flailing around in quicksand, and most of the time, the employer is looking for the antithesis of what the position posted actually calls for. Just like dating apps, the recruitment world is just a game—who can put together the best resume that in no way reflects them whatsoever, who can put on a fake front for a job interview with a panel of people they will never actually work with, and once they actually get the job, who is going to end the employment relationship first once they realize they are catastrophically incompatible for one another. Sometimes, the best person for the job doesn’t have the 4-year college degree that would look fantastic in a dusty frame in the break room. Most of the time you already
know them and just haven’t considered them for the job. A local example of this is Alexandra Kriz— owner of All Cats and Dogs grooming salon. Alex may appear to be a dog groomer, but she is also one of the most informed and effective leaders in the mental health industry, and the key to Chico’s initiative to promote better outcomes for people struggling from mental illness and economic injustice. If she had a dating profile for potential employers it would probably consist of a photo of her in her service uniform, a photo of her with her Golden Retriever Enoch, and a photo of her on her ranch that she owns with her husband Jesse. You’d know she could get the job done if it involved cutting dogs' hair or manual labor, but you’d never know she was exactly who you were looking for to manage a trauma-informed housing site for our most vulnerable population. As we often say, know what you know, know what you don’t know, and know who knows what you don’t know. It's time as employers that we recognize that what we think we want in an employee and what we actually want in an employee are incongruent, and it is about dang time that we stop losing out on opportunities while trying to make the wrong person fit the job. Shelby Chase is the owner/operator of HRIQ, a boutique HR firm in Chico. You can reach her via phone at (530) 680-4747 or writing via her website at www.upyourHRiq.com
"Effie's knowledge and skills are unsurpassed in her field. She is a true professional. She is patient, kind, and always has her client's interest in mind. I can't say enough good things about her to do her justice except you are in good hands if you're lucky to have her as your agent." -Pamela Fuller
SOLD Here is an opportunity for you to own a piece of Paradise and build your dream home on this one acre lot. Prior to the Camp Fire, the property held a 3 bedroom, 2 bath, 1500+ sqft home, a detached 2 car garage, a shop, and was in such close proximity to the nearby creek, you could hear the sound of running water. The property previously had electricity, natural gas, and city water. Buyer is advised to verify the availability of all these utilities to their satisfaction. Price: $59,900
Bring your blueprint and build your dream home on this 1.5 acre lot! Situated on a quiet cul-de-sac location, it will only take one look to know this is where you want your dream house to be. According to the seller, property is zoned for having horses with a permit from the town of Paradise. Also, prior to the Camp Fire, the property was on septic, well water, and PID water. Buyers are advised to verify this information with the town of Paradise personally. Seller does not have any information regarding if the well or septic are functional presently. Buyer to investigate to their own satisfaction. Price: $79,000
SOLD Just a short walk to Bidwell Park, great schools and all the conveniences of living in town. There is an attached and completely separate 2 bedroom living space that has a full bath, kitchenette, dining area, a sitting room and separate entrance with its own driveway. It's the perfect set-up to be used as a mother-in-law unit, an in home office, a rental unit or an Airbnb. Upstairs, the extra large master bedroom suite features a stunning bathroom with a separate jutted tub, large walk-in-shower, and dual vanity. You will also find a coffee bar with mini fridge and a lovely balcony off the bedroom with a ceiling fan where you can enjoy sipping your coffee in the peace and quiet of your private oasis. OWNED SOLAR and so much more! See this fabulous home for yourself! Bed: 5.0 Bath: 3.0 SqFt: 2,925 Price: $675,000
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Love Story I got a call from Aveed, the owner and proprietor of this magazine, saying he would like a love story written up from my life in Real Estate, for this February issue, honoring the month of Love.
“Wow!” I said. “You went all out!”
I instantly thought of my old Real Estate mentor, Ken DuVall (KDV), and his wife, Alla.
Anyone who knew KDV, knew about his devotion to Alla.
“Every February 1st, I start getting nervous, babe,” said KDV. “The pressure is on for Valentine’s Day. But I’m also excited. This is my next chance to give Alla something special.” Every Valentine’s Day, he bought Alla jewelry. Nice jewelry. “The pressure’s on, bro,” said KDV, “but you know I perform well under pressure. It’s like closing the next big deal!” He puffed hard on his hand-rolled cigarette and laid it in the ashtray on his desk in our Real Estate office. This was back in the day when people had ashtrays on their desks. “This is Major League shopping, babe!” He flipped open a little black jewelry box. Glittering in the soft lining of the box were a pair of diamond earrings. They looked expensive and impressive.
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“Listen, babe,” said KDV. “It’s gotta be perfect for my angel. She’s my savior. My life. My true love.”
A case in point is the old-time wishbone ritual. KDV and I were buddies with our Real Estate colleague Trudi. On each other’s birthdays, we would go out to lunch together. We did those lunches for about 25 years. At the end of each meal, KDV would pull out a folded napkin containing a wishbone, provided by Alla, from their chicken dinners at home. When KDV snapped the wishbone apart his wish was the same wish every time. “My only wish is that I die before Alla. I can’t live without her.” KDV was the Hollywood stunt-man, the motorcycle racer, and the guy who knew more jokes than all of us put together. Heck, he knew more about Real Estate than all of us put together. He was the guy who loved to laugh, and to impart words of wisdom, like, “Follow me and then rise to your own level of incompetence.” He was a reservoir for jokes like, “My headstone will read, ‘There goes the neighborhood.’” That guy got his
wish in 2012, at the age of eighty. I knew him for close to 30 years, and he had been married to Alla for 50 years.
“Did he?” I asked.
In 2006, KDV sent me a little memoir he had written about his life, which included words about the love of his life. “I’m still a nerd.” He wrote in the accompanying letter, “Alla dresses me and sends me to work. I do deals—she does everything else.”
I asked about their move from Hollywood to Chico, in the early 70’s.
In the memoir he wrote, “Not long after marrying my “Alla Bella” in 1963, I came to the belief she was impossible to live with. I went to her father, Leon (Leonid Usachevsky), a marvelous Russian native that had migrated from the old country—a musician, who had appeared in the movie, ‘Dr. Zhivago.’ I told him his daughter was crazy and incorrigible. Leon said, ‘Ken, give it time. It will work out.’ Thank God I listened to that beautiful man. He was right, and I finally realized I was the problem, of course. I was completely unenlightened in those days. I loved to fight. Alla did come up with a good one during one altercation: ‘Don’t ever yell at me when I’m yelling at you!’” KDV wrote in the memoir in bold, “GIVE ETERNAL THANKS TO THE GODS FOR A RELATIONSHIP THAT IS SUCCESSFUL. I FINALLY FOUND SALVATION WITH MY IRREPLACEABLE ALLA AND HER BEAUTIFUL FAMILY.” After KDV passed away, I became great friends with Alla. We had spent some time with each other in the past, but my life had been in the day-to-day Real Estate world with KDV. Alla, unlike KDV, never talked about herself. But her granddaughters described her as “spirited, brave, ahead of her time, and accepting of new ideas. Everything about her is glamorous. She was a health nut before the term was used as it is today. She loves all of her pets as if they are her furry children. She makes sure all of her loved ones take their vitamins!” I asked Alla about meeting KDV. “The first time I saw him, he was climbing a palm tree next to the pool in my apartment complex in Hollywood, cutting dead fronds, swinging a chainsaw with one hand. He was trying to impress me.”
“Oh, yes,” she said.
“I wanted to kill him,” she said. “We fought. Hollywood and L.A. was all I knew. He wanted out of the city, and by that time, our bond was strong, so I came along, and now I’m glad I did!” I recalled my memory of the fancy diamond earrings KDV gave her that Valentine’s Day long ago. “Oh, my God,” she said. “He always overdid it! I never wore those big heavy things!” She covered her face and shook her head. “He could never believe that all I wanted was him and our happy life—not the glittery things!” I also reminded her of some advice KDV gave me about “The Rules of a Successful Relationship”, which he said he and Alla lived by. “One, babe.” He had said, “You must have three things each day that remain unsaid. You’re about to say something negative to her—swallow it.” “Two.” He said, “Don’t sweat the small stuff! Petty problems are just that—petty! Celebrate your life together. Don’t mess it up with nagging little beefs!” I asked Alla if she recalled those two rules. “You bet,” she said. “Because we both agreed to those rules, we stopped fighting.” “It’s great advice,” I said. “There’s one more rule we preached,” said Alla. “Love conquers all.”
Doug Love is Sales Manager at Century 21 in Chico. Email dougwlove@gmail.com. Call or text 530-680-0817. 35
WRITTEN BY SHELLY BRANDON | PHOTOS COURTESY PEG TAYLOR CENTER
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The Peg Taylor Center A Place where people bloom WRITTEN BY SHELLY BRANDON | PHOTOS COURTESY PEG TAYLOR CENTER
The California Poppy blooms where it is planted, growing bright and strong even in the most challenging conditions. At the Peg Taylor Center for Adult Day Health Care, where the California Poppy is their symbol, they know all about that journey from bud to blossom -- and it's families they see bloom, when a person's needs are met. Adults come to the Center with health care needs and find community, friendship, and support for themselves and their loved ones. With that support in place, there's no limit on where their journeys can go, and that journey, says Diane Puckett, is a beautiful thing to witness. Diane Puckett is the founding executive director of the Peg Taylor Center. When asked about the center’s effect on their clients’ lives, she says, “blossom is the
best word to describe it. The change is like being able to see everything bloom again in the spring.” Prior to the opening of the center, Diane had been working in health care and community services in the Santa Barbara area. She had worked in a skilled nursing facility as well as a community counseling center and witnessed firsthand how difficult it was for people to keep their life on track after they had experienced a health crisis. It’s not just one service that’s needed, but a multitude of services that touch various aspects of a person’s life and health which need to be addressed in order to facilitate independent living. In 1983 she heard about Peg Taylor’s efforts to open a center in Chico and “got very excited about the concept of having a program that could provide ongoing support for people who have been hospitalized in
order to keep their rehabilitation going and regain their quality of life. A program that meant older adults would be able to live with independence and dignity.” The tragedies she’d seen led her to believe that this was a very important model of care, and she was eager to pioneer it not only in Chico, but throughout the country. Even today, adult day health centers are missing in many places across the United States. So much of this has now come to the forefront for its importance in enabling independent living. Diane says, “It proved to be the most wonderful model I could have imagined for doing the kinds of things I hoped could happen for people. We understand so much more now.” As her role at the center changes, Diane is currently involved in statewide 37
initiatives. She is working with the California Association of Adult Day Services and the Alliance for Leadership and Education on projects to further this model of adult day services and to expand the means to enable individuals to stay active in their communities while maintaining their health and independence. In conjunction with the state’s Master Plan for Aging, she is very engaged in examining how to connect necessary services to create aging friendly communities with quality support and easy access to those services. Diane is thrilled to be working with the center’s current executive director, Corinne ‘Cori’ Miller to support the work of the center’s Board of Directors and staff team as they continue Peg Taylor’s legacy. That legacy is one of care and companionship—an adult day health care center that helps individuals who’ve experienced health problems to remain active, engaged, and connected while receiving the care they need. Their clients range in age from 18 to 104 and may be any adult who has had a significant health challenge and needs support, although they primarily serve older adults in their 70s, 80s, and 90s who have a range of health problems that prevent them from doing things entirely independently. A typical day at the center kicks off with a cup of coffee or tea while visiting with friends. Services then begin. Clients work with the interdisciplinary team to receive individualized attention, such as meeting with the nurse for diabetic care or with a physical therapist to work on mobility issues. In order to support their health journeys, the center offers physical, occupational, and speech therapies, nursing and personal care, social work services, health education, and nutritional counseling. There are recreational activities going on as well to meet a myriad of interests, such as travel groups, music therapy, arts and crafts, or games. Everyone can find something they enjoy. After a full noon dinner and the afternoon events, the program day ends around three o’clock. Diane equates the center to “going to a health club, and then to a community center, and later, a therapy clinic, but they’re all packaged together with a lot of fun wrapped around it.”
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Since March 2020, the COVID-19 pandemic necessitated some creative reframing of the Center’s longtime services. This compassionate, personcentered program was temporarily remodeled as a Center Without Walls. Creative approaches have ensured that participants and their families have daily support, including uplifting things to do, exercise programs, nursing and social worker assistance, therapy, and aid with whatever is needed. The Center’s full in-center group programming will begin again as soon as it is possible. In the 36 years since the Peg Taylor Center began, it has provided over 1.5 million hours of care. Among those who have benefited from the program are John and Ginny. John had a stroke in his 50’s and was very discouraged when he first came to the center as he had lost a lot of independence and mobility and was no longer able to drive. While his spirits lifted after time at the center, he wasn’t sure what was next for him. He let the therapists know that he really would like to be able to drive again. Rather than saying it was impossible, the therapists helped John to set that as a goal and work step by step, day-by-day on all aspects of his recovery. Five years later, John took his driver’s test and passed. Ginny suffered a stroke in 2018 and came to the center with the goals of being able to walk safely, write a book, and graduate from college. In 2019, at the age of 84, Ginny walked across the stage and received her diploma as she graduated. The Peg Taylor Center is truly about the people; people like John and Ginny, the dedicated staff team, the participants, the families, the volunteers, and the community members who have made it all possible. Diane stresses, “Joining together, we make a difference. That’s how we create the depth and meaning in this program.” To learn how to support the important work of the Peg Taylor Center, call Cori at 530-342-2345 or visit them at facebook.com/pegtaylorcenter.
The Great Laminate vs. Luxury Vinyl Debate Debunked Trying to determine which type of floor is best for your home can be as difficult as buying a car—and sometimes around the same price! Some flooring stores want to sell laminate while others want to sell vinyl. We’ll break down the pros and cons of each material to help you decide which is the better option for you. Laminate Pros—Extremely durable on the surface and incredibly hard to dent or scratch. It's great for office and business environments, mimics the look of a highly polished wood floor, and typically costs less than vinyl. Vinyl Pros—Softer than laminate in most cases and great for muffling sound in a house, especially upstairs. Vinyl is waterproof making it great for houses with kids or pets, and it can be installed in every room including below, on, and above grade. It is incredibly easy to clean with almost any cleaning liquid or cleaning solution. It'll be your Roomba’s best friend. Laminate Cons—Laminate can have a “tinny” sound when walked on with dress shoes or heels (similar to walking on stone or tile floor). It isn't waterproof, so it won't be ideal for mud rooms, kitchens, or bathrooms. If installed below grade, it will also need a moisture barrier. Vinyl Cons—Vinyl scratches easier than laminate and normally has a higher cost of material and installation. Final Verdict—Come into the store, tell us about your house, and let us make a customized recommendation for you! Justin IIoms is the project manager at California Renovation in Chico, California. He can be reached by phone at (530) 343-1661 or email at justin@mycrteam.com 39
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The first branch of the Little Red Hen organization was the Children’s Program which began in 1993 as that early swim program. It encourages lifelong connections for individuals on the autism spectrum, along with their families, through a series of programs, camps, and an afterschool curriculum. The aim is to help these individuals develop their social and community skills. The fully-inclusive facility has a lending library and a meet and greet center, where it supports the comprehensive family education and experience. The children’s programs are divided into groups based on ages. These include: Lil’ Sprouts, Buddin’ Sprouts, and Growing Together Teens. Erika Birkholm, senior director of Little Red Hen, says, “One of the hardest things for kids with autism is learning how to socialize. Many kids with autism don’t know how to play, which is one of the fundamentals of being a child.” Erika’s mother, Teresa, likes to say that play is a basic human right. Being able to help these children learn how to exercise that right is the first step of their journey.
After interviewing and researching Little Red Hen Nursery, Inc., my mind continues to picture it like opening the back of the wardrobe and encountering that entire secret world of Narnia. Luckily, Little Red Hen’s world isn’t a secret. The Little Red Hen organization goes so far beyond any of the multiple storefronts we see around Chico that it is almost impossible 42
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to comprehend the breadth of their work on behalf of children and adults with developmental disabilities. What started out as a sapling, a store that opened in response to fill a basic need, has continued to grow and branch out, creating a canopy of community, stores, and services offering new opportunities with each new leaf. Little Red Hen’s story began over thirty
Lil’ Sprouts is an early intervention program focusing on play and communication skills, sensory needs, and socialization. They offer one-on-one support and tie into the local community by employing Chico State and Butte College students working towards degrees in early childhood or special education along with their own trained instructors. The Buddin’ Sprouts group is an extension of the Lil’ Sprouts program and is geared towards eight-to-twelve-year-olds. Its curriculum builds upon and expands on the previously learned skills by encouraging social requests and decisions. Growing Together Teens is for 13-17-year-olds and is designed to foster friendships and encourage positive social behavior while
WRITTEN BY SHELLY BRANDON | PHOTOS BY DIANE NICOLE PHOTOGRAPHY AND BEAU VANDERMATE
years ago when Teresa Wolk Hayes began researching autism in order to learn how to better help her then two-year-old son Alex. She had the resources to hire behaviorists, speech therapists, and language therapists to work with him regularly. As time went on, and she became involved with other parents of children with autism in the community, she realized a lot of families didn’t have access to those resources. In an effort to help, she began inviting the families over to swim at her home and eventually opened a swim program funded by Far Northern Regional Center.
WRITTEN BY SHELLY BRANDON | PHOTOS BY DIANE NICOLE PHOTOGRAPHY AND BEAU VANDERMATE
promoting self-esteem and self-advocacy. The Lifespan program also offers summer programs such as F.L.O.C.K, Feeling Like One Common Kid, a two-week socialization therapy program, and the Not Your Garden Variety Theater, a six-week program in which the participants work together to put on a production of The Wizard of Oz, complete with costumes, set design, and music. Teresa’s overarching vision is to support and guide individuals with autism and developmental disabilities at all life stages, from early childhood through adulthood with opportunities throughout. These similar opportunities continue in the Little Red Hen stores. Many of the employees at their stores were once children in Lifespan’s Lil’ Sprouts and some were even part of Teresa’s original swim program. While running the swim school, Teresa sold flowers and plants out of her yard in order to raise money for computers. Laura Larson of Far Northern Regional Center encouraged Teresa to expand on that concept, and the first store, Little Red Hen Nursery, was planted. Teresa recognized the lack of opportunity for adults with developmental disabilities along with the unlikely possibility they would earn regular competitive wages. Supportive employment retail locations like the nursery raise the developmentally disabled up both economically and emotionally by enabling them to fulfill their career goals while making contributions to society with their employment. Shannon M. Turner of Hidden Voices Podcast says there is “a social glass ceiling that adds arbitrary limitations on how people with disabilities work and what types of jobs are available, especially if that person has a developmental disability. Sometimes those jobs don’t give them personal autonomy and choice over their life.” It’s essential that individuals be given a chance and a choice at employment opportunities as it is such an integral part of feeling purposeful. Little Red Hen is just that, retail with a purpose. They offer supportive employment for people with developmental disabilities such as autism, Down syndrome, and cerebral palsy. Gabrielle Green, senior manager of human resources at Little Red Hen, echoes this sentiment by saying, “All people need to be able to enjoy their chosen occupation. Just because it may 43
take one person longer to complete the task, it doesn’t mean they don’t deserve the dignity to be able to enjoy, grow, and experience rewards from that career area.” All six of their retail locations are fully integrated with both developmentally disabled staff and non-disabled instructors working together towards a common goal. It is in the various stores that the instructors really get to talk, engage, and participate with the employees. Gabrielle says, “It’s one of the most fulfilling things about what we do.” The nursery location focuses on teaching horticultural skills such as planting, propagation, and plant identification. The staff also works on customer service and cashiering, along with leading community classes on special garden interests like creating and caring for bonsai trees. Teresa reiterates that their philosophy is all about community integration, “Come into our environment. We are here to show you our strengths and our abilities.” The growth and addition of new stores and departments is driven by their employees’ current skill sets, along with their desire to learn new ones. Teresa had been approached by two women with Down syndrome who had been working at the nursery. As they aged, they were looking for a job in a more sheltered facility. This need to provide a work environment out of the elements led to the next location, the Little Red Hen Gift Shop where shipping and receiving for all six stores is handled in addition to customer service and merchandising. Each location is designed to provide opportunities that are different from the ones that came before it. The Kitchen Store offers the chance to work on artisan projects, sewing, retail displays, and computer skills. The Vintage Store is more language based and works on learning the art of ‘picking’ and operating an Etsy store involving researching, photographing, and writing up descriptions for online listings. Customer service and displays are also part of the Vintage Store’s day-to-day operations. The Floral Store is a full-service floral shop where staff demonstrate their skills in floral design. They design for all occasions with an emphasis on weddings and special events. Their newest addition to Little Red Hen is their HOME Store which opened in 44
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Downtown Chico in 2019 and showcases their employees’ abilities while emphasizing that everyone is capable, and everyone has a gift. Beyond the HOME store, staff work on administrative tasks, grant writing, and finance. The ONLINE department focuses on the e-commerce arm of the business handling the Little Red Hen Boutique. In addition to the retail stores, Little Red Hen offers supportive employment focusing on trade skills, and this takes place at the Park & Garden, the Tools & Trade division, and the Greenhouse. Erika talks about the instructors and management that work in all of their twelve locations. She says they are amazing, “It’s not a typical career. You aren’t just going in and setting up a display. You’re taking a staff member with you and showing them why it works—explaining why the choices are made. Everything is a teaching moment. Our people have big hearts and a lot of compassion.” Little Red Hen is partially funded by the Far Northern Regional Center. This allows them to put all the profit from sales at each location towards paying their staff, consisting of developmentally disabled individuals, above minimum wage. They also put this money into developing more supportive programming for their staff, like Winner Wellness Wednesdays and Art Therapy Tuesdays. Erika says, “The more people shop at the stores and the more money generated at those locations means more employment opportunities. Sales and donations are the only way for us to grow.” Little Red Hen’s mission is summed up beautifully by one of their employees named Sam, “I feel really blessed to be here, and I’m excited to come to work. What we do matters here. The company we are associated with matters. Most people can’t say that.” Little Red Hen invites the community to come into one of their six locations: Plant Nursery, Home, Floral & More, Gift Shop, Kitchen Store or Vintage. Shop. Ask questions. They are happy to tell you their story and share the canopy of their services. For more information and to discover their locations, visit www.littleredhen.org
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he saw it in operation, he offered us an even better location facing the highway. We’ve been there for 14 years now.” Playtime4You offers a wide variety of adult novelty items that can help rekindle that romantic flame. Paul noted, “Everyone has fantasies of their own. They could be mild or outrageously wild, but either way we all have them. It’s important to ask your partner what theirs is and explore it with them. There are so many distractions in the world these days. Showing interest in your relationship and in the needs of your partner keeps the focus where it needs to be, and we have everything you could possibly need to do that from costumes to toys and so much more.”
SPICE UP YOUR FEBRUARY With February representing the month of love, we have no shortage of articles in this magazine regarding love stories and sharing community love. Yet, what about keeping the fire and romance alive with the person we love the most? So much of the fun and excitement many experience early on with one another can slip away as their relationship matures. It doesn’t have to though. According to Paul and Erika Fink, keeping the fire alive is much easier than most would imagine, and they’re doing everything in their power to help others realize it at their adult novelty store, Playtime4You. Paul grew up in Fort Jones, a few short hours away from Chico. He attended College of the Siskiyous in Weed before transferring to University of Florida where he earned his engineering degree, later using it to help his parents’ radio stations in Quincy. When time would allow, he and his friends would leave the small town behind in search of fun and excitement, usually finding it right here in Chico. On one of these visits,
he met his wife Erika and the two decided to settle down together. Paul eventually bought his parents’ radio towers and created a new business, leasing them to local radio stations, AT&T, PG&E, and even local churches to broaden their reach. He used the proceeds from the business to begin investing in real estate as well, quickly growing his portfolio. When his brother returned from his military service in Iraq, the two decided to go into business together. Their father recommended opening a store, so they analyzed the market and discovered the area didn’t have an adult novelty store. They found a location on Highway-32 and set out to make their concept a reality. “The owner of the building was a bit skeptical and we understood. After all, there’s always been a bit of a stigma attached to adult novelty stores.” Paul remembered, “We decided to do things differently though and focused on bringing a professional establishment to town. Once
Beyond the world of novelty items, Playtime4You has found itself as a destination for those experiencing issues with their health as well. Many going through chemotherapy rely on the shop for their selection of wigs, and doctors often refer patients to the store for help with conditions commonly associated with aging, ranging from vaginal dryness to erectile dysfunction. “We always encourage people to break through the taboo and just stop in to see the store for themselves.” Paul said, “Everyone is surprised at how fun shopping here actually is. It’s not at all what you would expect. If you have questions, there’s always a well-trained, friendly professional at the counter who can answer any questions you might have, and if you’re just there to have a look around, you’re welcome to do that as well.” Locally owned and operated, Playtime4You has a reputation for helping couples rediscover their spark and supporting their community as well. They sponsor a number of up-and-coming local artists, give generously to the Butte County library, and support many local non-profits each and every year, making our community an even better place to live. Do yourself a favor and visit their store at 2961 CA-32 #18 from 11am-10pm any day of the week. You can also call them at (530) 895-8463. Whether single, in a relationship, or married, they’ll have something to help spice up your February.
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The Loneliest Boundaries There’s a misperception about boundaries and breakingup that the person implementing the change is without emotional toll. They initiated the separation, and therefore, they are doing fine emotionally. Unfortunately, most of the time this person is also deeply hurting. They wanted the relationship to be healthy and fruitful, but the nature of the relationship was hurting them or was otherwise not meeting their needs. This doesn’t mean they didn’t have affection for the other person (romantic partner, family member, or friend). The decision to distance oneself is usually an arduous process. One has wrestled with remembering the good times and attributes about the other person. They have vacillated among a litany of emotions, which includes good, loving ones, in addition to the hurt and frustrating emotions. After drawing back, they grieve. There’s loss of the envisioned future, and the shared jokes and experiences serve as reminders of the loss. There are typically beautiful things about that other person, and while they are moving
JESSICA DARLING WILKERSON, MA, LMFT 104464 LICENSED MARRIAGE & FAMILY THERAPIST EMDR CLINICIAN
toward inhibiting the hurtful interactions, they are also cutting out the lovely experiences. Healthy boundaries can feel like the loneliest decision. A person who has gotten to a point of saying, “I have tried to navigate this relationship, and no matter how hard I try, it continues to hurt me, and I need to end it,” has not arrived to this space unscathed. They do not end the friendship or relationship with a feeling of fulfillment in their heart, but their inner voice and opinions from others around them chime in saying, “Why are you upset? You wanted this!” They usually did not want this, this ending; they wanted to be healthy. This is still a loss. If you need someone to talk to about the loneliness of ending a relationship, we are here to help. Please reach out. www.InspiredLifeChico.com or call us at (530) 809-1702
Jessica Wilkerson, MA, LMFT is a licensed marriage and family therapist in Chico, CA. She is an EMDR clinician as well as the owner/operator and clinical supervisor of Inspired Life Counseling. For more information, visit www.jessicawilkerson.com and www.inspiredlifechico.com. Jessica can also be reached via phone at (530) 809-1702
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WRITTEN BY BEAU VANDERMATE | PHOTOS BY BEAU VANDERMATE
Cheffing with passion Chef Ed Hawk is no stranger making every dish with passion and a purpose. He was first introduced to the world of cooking over 21 years ago in the kitchen at Yellowstone National Park. Through this experience, Ed would be exposed to various types of foods and cultures. The company, Xanterra Parks, hires half American and half European workers, creating a diverse work environment. Through this diversity, Ed fell in love with French cuisine and those inspirations are evident today in the dishes he creates. Growing up, Ed never had his sights set on becoming a chef, but early experiences opened his eyes to all the possibilities and meaningful relationships he could build along the way. After nearly 5 years at Yellowstone National Park, Ed set off to work in a completely different environment, taking a position at Feather Falls Brewing Company. It was here that he truly gave into the culinary journey and embraced 50
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the earlier teachings he learned from Chef Chapman at Yellowstone. While at Feather Falls, Ed seized the opportunity to become their executive chef and really started to come into his own. After many years at Feather Falls Brewery, Ed finally reached a point of wanting more control over the kitchen. He visited Ethan’s Eatery and immediately fell in love with the owners and their restaurant. The owners— Justine and Jeff Jacobsen—fell in love with Ed as well. Before he knew it, the kitchen was his, and new dishes were flying out of it. 10 months later, Ed couldn't be happier having a kitchen that is truly his and his title of head chef. He is quick to note that just because he is the head chef, he does not feel above anyone else. “We’re all on the same team,” he says. It clearly rings true in his kitchen as he has created a wonderful working environment. Having an imagination when creating new
dishes and not being afraid to try something new is a characteristic any chef needs in order to be successful. With exposure to European dishes, Ed has been able to create a breakfast and lunch menu that is truly unique. For example, the new Croque Madame essentially is an open-faced grilled cheese with an egg on top, complemented by a cheesy Mornay sauce. Whether Ed is in the “trenches” with his kitchen team or out finding new recipes and ingredients, you can always count on Ethan’s Eatery to deliver bold and exciting new flavors to the North State. Check them out on Instagram @ethans_eatery and or reach them by phone at (530) 854-4348. Their restaurant hours are Wednesday-Friday 7AM- 3PM, and Saturday-Sunday 8AM-3PM.
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WRITTEN AND PHOTOGRAPHED BY TACO TRACKER, RYAN STEFANELLI
trompo de adobada Chico’s only operating trompo de adobada can be found at J’s Tacos and Beer, a new endeavor from father and son team, Jovito and Jose Hernandez, located at 900 Cherry St. If you are not familiar with trompo de adobada, it is a sliced and marinated pork layered carefully on a spit, slowly roasted, thinly carved, and crisped on a flat top before being layered on a fresh homemade corn tortilla. J’s Tacos and Beer opened on November 11, 2020. I was lucky enough to stumble upon them on social media and quickly made my way over that evening. While the brick and mortar location may be new, Jovito’s passion for cooking dates back to Tijuana, Mexico, when he started his fist taco stand, Tacos El Guero, at the young age of 14. With great success over the following three years, Jovito was serving his first patrons at his own brick and mortar restaurant, which is still in operation to this day. In 2008, Jovito started operating a taco truck at the corner of Shasta and Esplanade called Burritos El Caporal, and in 2011, opened a second location in Paradise on Clark Road. Sticking with his tried and true recipes providing an authentic Tijuana flavor, he has developed a style that has been widely sought after in our area. The location in Chico at Shasta and Esplanade was ready for a revamp in 2017, so he pulled out all the stops, purchased a large new trailer and constructed a seating area, changing the name to Mi Taquito. That is where I first came across Jovito and his trompo de adobada while driving by one 52
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Saturday evening. I immediately pulled over for a taste and found familiarity that I had come to love from my travels in Mexico. As with any successful endeavor, there is always some hardship and struggle along the way, and The Hernandez family is no stranger to their share. As with many families, they lost their businesses and home in the Camp Fire. Luckily, they still had the Mi Taquito location to continue operations. After settling in and getting their feet back under them, the family decided to open another restaurant, mentioned earlier, J’s Tacos and Beer. As we all know, another struggle was soon upon them, and Covid slowed the grand opening for 2 years but allowed them to improve the building and business model. With a huge outdoor patio, they are looking forward to providing a space for live music and a spot for customers to host gatherings. On the menu, you will of course find adobada along with choice rib eye steak and grilled mushrooms to enjoy as a taco, topped on fries, or in a mulita—a Tijuana style quesadilla. With a great ondraft list and cold case of beer offerings, it's sure to stand up to the name. Jovito expects to bring numerous specials to the menu in the coming months that are not being offered anywhere locally, so keep an eye out! You can out find more about the Hernandez family and what they offer @ Js_TacosandBeer @MiTaquito_Grill on FB and IG.
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AL AVA H I C O
OFFEE
ROASTERS
Think Global, Drink Local
Order your beans online! www.caljavacoffee.com
Caffeinated Chatter Of the two, which would you prefer: Flowers or chocolate? Alyssa Carr Neither. I'm more of a flower person when it's not forced. A handmade card means more to me than a box of chocolates or flowers from Safeway.
Alex Gendreau I prefer flowers because you can have them longer. My grandmother was a florist, so I grew up around flowers all the time, and I feel like they are closer to my heart. Candy—it’s just candy. I can go buy that whenever I want.
Gloria Jimenez I actually just asked for flowers for Valentines Day. I like them because they make the house look pretty. So, whenever I pass by them, it just makes me happy, and I just think they make the house look nicer.
Joni Dunlap I guess I want to qualify the question: If they're flowers I can plant in the ground then I rather have flowers, but if they’re cut flowers, then I’m not particularly interested in them, and I’d rather have dark chocolate. 54
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What gift or special act makes Valentine's Day special? Carlos Martinez Ideal Valentine's day would be getting up early, a nice walk or hike, going to the co-op, and getting ingredients for a great dinner. In other words, a selfcare day to love myself.
Tim Wright An ideal Valentine's day for me would consist of sipping a nice glass of Cabernet atop a mountain peak. A charcuterie board wouldn't hurt things either.
Marc Breckenridge A drink with your significant other after a long day at the ranch, watching the sunrise or sunset near any body of water or spending time with friends that are also family. It's the things that you can't put a monetary value on, which mean the most to me.
Todd Gibson I think the act that would make my day would be reservations for an overnight trip out of town, drive to Murphys, you know, stay at the inn, something like that. Just a real short quick getaway. 55
When its chilly outside
Souper Subs I met Nana on one of my visits to Oroville before becoming a resident myself. I was looking to expand the magazine’s distribution and learned of their sister location, and prep kitchen, Dam Bowls. I still don’t know what her first name is, but to everyone who knows her, she is simply Nana. Not wanting to be disrespectful to elders, she’s Nana to me too, and that’s that. The first and last bite of “Nana’s Chili” is as warm and welcoming as a dish prepared by your very own grandmother. I decided to order mine in a bread bowl. They prepared the lid garlic-bread style, which was truly a treat. The chili was multi-textured with a mediumthick base of tomato, beef, and beans. The ingredients ensure the richness, something I hoped to capture in the photo. The base texture was just thick enough so the bread didn’t soak it in and become soft. The bites of incredibly generous beef portions provided all you should expect from a meaty chili. The tomatoes were smooth while the beans possessed a light outside snap and were 56
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smooth and buttery on the inside. Nana‘s recipe makes you think of campfire chili— salty, hearty, and full of spice, without the heat—flavor that sticks to your ribs. The endless bustle of the restaurant's drive-through is a testament to its quality and popularity. I sat and ate while a couple of folks ordered Nana’s chilis like it was something they’d done hundreds of times before. The dining room is open and spacious but not so large that if you were the only one eating inside you would feel out of place. Stop by and see for yourself by trying a bread bowl or even grabbing a cup of soup and a small sandwich. I like the jalapeño popper with chicken, cream cheese, and jalapeño, but I’m sure you too will find a favorite that brings you back, time and time again.
Welcome chili inside
Upper Crust The plate was delivered and demanded attention immediately. A striking visual of fresh cilantro pesto and a generous winding stream of sour cream rested atop the deep colors of Upper Crust’s Vegetarian Black Bean Chili. Playfulness and presentation match the vibrancy of colors that spring from Lenn Goldman’s art displayed on the walls throughout the café. To be sure to give my best notes on the dish, I spooned a portion without the toppings. You instantly taste the reward of two-and-a-half hours of cooked black beans and a generous kiss of garlic. Tomato, carrot, onion, and bell pepper are present throughout the mixture but don’t conflict with the texture of the beans, making for a smooth and even experience. This chili ate more like a meal than any other vegetarian option in recent memory, wholly satisfying and quite filling. Some see chili as a naturally spicy (read: hot) dish but this came as a canvas that one could add more spice to as desired.
The chili comes alive with the brightness of the pesto, and the sour cream was not thick at all, maintaining the mouthfeel of the chili while lending a cooling element to the rich warm bowl. We sat with Kitchen Manager Matt and Upper Crust’s owner, Jeff. Matt explained the secret, not-so-secret after having the soup featured on Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives, was that the spices are cooked down at first, unlocking the flavor. When I asked how long the recipe had remained the same, Jeff stated it hadn’t changed in the 10 years he’s been there, even under the previous owner, Lori. The order is completed with their jalapeño cheese corn muffin. The essence and bite of the fine jalapeno can be experienced without the heat, so don’t be misled if you aren’t one for something spicy. If you’re ready for a vegetarian lunch that satisfies, make your way to Upper Crust while the weather still begs for something toasty.
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THE QUEEN’S CARTOONIST
THURS., FEBRUARY 3
DEMETRI MARTIN I Feel Funny Tour
NOBUNTU
SUN., FEBRUARY 6
KITCHEN DWELLERS Progressive bluegrass
THURS., FEBRUARY 17
MELISSA ETHERIDGE
BOOK IN COMMON LECTURE There There, by Tommy Orange TUES., MARCH 1
BLACK VIOLIN PARSONS DANCE
NOBUNTU Zimbabweanrooted music
THURS., MARCH 10
MELISSA ETHERIDGE One Way Out Tour ROBERT CRAY
SUN., MARCH 20
BLACK VIOLIN Impossible Tour
TUES., MARCH 22
BANFF CENTRE MOUNTAIN FILM FESTIVAL WORLD TOUR FRI., MARCH 25
PARSONS DANCE Contemporary American dance SUN., APRIL 3 NASSIM
ROBERT CRAY FRI., APRIL 8
MERZ TRIO Artistic chamber ensemble SUN., APRIL 10
NASSIM Off-Broadway Smash
TUES., APRIL 19
PSS PSS
PSS PSS Part mime, part clown, part acrobat TUES., MAY 10
TICKETS 530-898-6333 chicoperformances.com University Box Office 58
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Break up songs are a ubiquitous entry into nearly every lyrical music genre. Rock, country, soul, rap, hip-hop, punk, R&B, heavy metal, folk, blues, reggae, and any other genre not on this list— somewhere there’s a break up song. I’m certain there are “break up” songs in opera and Broadway musicals, too. You’ll have to trust me on this, because I can't name any off the top of my head. However, break up songs abound as an expression of anger, sadness, depression, negative thoughts, and even joy.
sees her man talking up another woman and realizes it’s all over.
The internet provides a plethora of break up song lists, and many songs appeared on multiple lists. Some I’d heard a thousand times, and some I had to look up the lyrics or watch the music video. A word of advice: Don’t set aside an entire afternoon to listen to, read about, or watch the videos of break up songs. You’ll soon be crying like the doorman in The Wizard of Oz and making an appointment with a therapist. Whatever you do, if you want to stay hitched, don’t play these songs on Valentine’s Day, in whatever form that may be.
Willie Nelson - “You’re Always on My Mind.” Covered by others, Willie’s version reveals the wisdom of someone who has finally opened his eyes.
“We Are Never Getting Back Together” by Taylor Swift says it all in the title. Swift is nicknamed The Queen of Heartbreak, after all. J. Geils Band - “Love Stinks.” “The thing you call love/It’s gonna make you cry.” Guns N Roses - “November Rain.” A beautiful song clocking in at nearly nine minutes. It uses symphonic orchestration combined with hard rock. Adele - “Someone Like You,” a moving ballad coming to terms with her ex leaving. Daryl Hall and John Oates - “She’s gone.” States it all in two words. Etta James - “I’d Rather Go Blind.” She
Smokey Robinson and the Miracles - “The Tracks of My Tears.” This Summer of ‘65 staple rings just as true today as it did then. The Bee Gees and later, Al Green - “How Can You Mend a Broken Heart?” You’ve got to listen to these back-to-back and hear the disco vs the soul version. Fantastic.
Roy Orbison - “Crying.” No one has come close to the unique stylization of Orbison’s voice, one that never needed electronic modification. Outkast - “Roses.” The lyrics can be harsh, but they set the limits on what your lover can do. Toni Braxton - “Un-Break My Heart.” This one spent 11 weeks on the “Billboard Hot 100!” chart. Take a listen. The Weeknd - “Call Out My Name.” The raw heartbreak comes through in this song from his My Dear Melancholy EP. Sinead O’Connor - “Nothing Compares 2 You.” Originally recorded by Prince, this song quickly became O’Connor’s signature hit. Let me tell you, there are HUNDREDS of songs from which to choose. Heartbreak and the sad wail of loneliness covers the gamut of break up ballads. If your favorite was not included on this list, call up your significant other, tell them you love them, and buy some chocolate and champagne. Perhaps a reddish rose will also do, and spend the evening together.
WRITTEN BY TIM MILHORN
MERZ TRIO
Songs not to play for your significant other on valentine's day
WRITTEN BY TIM MILHORN
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Month. Yes, we know who you are, and you should be ashamed! Second to last but not least, it includes National Pork Rind Appreciation Day due to Superbowl Sunday, and definitely last and not first, the third weekend is National Margarita Weekend. Now I’m sorry I made that resolution to not drink. I have to admit it is National Chocolate Lover’s Month, but where’s the fun in that? It’s obvious, tedious, and boring! Or all three put together. Now that you chocolate addicts are satisfied - is a chocolate addict ever satisfied? I think not - let’s take a gander at some of the individual food days in the shortest month of the year.
A food for every day
and a day for every food You could say Americans are obsessed with food, but then again, who isn’t? Every nation has their own dish or cuisine. Some nations have an endless supply of foods from which to choose; some nations have such little fare their citizens are fortunate to live to see tomorrow. Here in America, food is so abundant there is a food day for every day of the year. Each month also has its own food day. It’s wildly crazy. Not only can you get the foods we will read about in this article, but you can, in most cases, also get them overnight! Thanks to various shipping services, styrofoam, and dry ice, we can enjoy those tasty tidbits within 24 hours if we’re willing to shell out the dough. Even the most plebeian among 60
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us can get the food of our dreams and desires within a week. It’s the modern world, folks, so don’t get left off the chuck wagon of fun. And to make you feel guilty about it, remember that so much edible leftovers are thrown away every day in America that we could feed all those third world countries in Africa, where people are lucky just to have any food. So, let’s start our foraging quest in February. While this should be Chocolate Month due to Valentine’s Day, it’s actually Canned Food Month! Or National Potato Lover’s Month, and National Cherry Month (just where are cherries ripe in February?), National Grapefruit Month, and ReturnShopping-Carts-to-the-Supermarket
Another day in the Month of Love is National Tater Tot Day on February 2. Tater tots, a staple of school cafeterias all over the country, and pretty good in a food fight, too. February 10 is National “Have a Brownie Day.” I could tell you a story about that involving a summer school teacher and a grateful student, a story that still makes the rounds of Orland High School. Let’s just say someone had to drive the teacher home. For you imbibers out there, we have National “Drink Wine” Day. (Someone at UL says that’s every day.) Also, there’s National Margarita Day on 2/22/22! We can’t leave out National Kahlua Day on February 27. That’s the same day as National Strawberry Day and National Chili Day, which might result in National Kaopectate Day on February 28. And that’s just one-third of one month! For your entertainment, here are some random food days: January 7, National Fruitcake Toss Day (no doubt where you toss out the Holiday Fruit Cake). March 30, Turkey Neck Soup Day. April 20, Lima Bean Respect Day (It's about time!) And, as I said, a food day for every day.
WRITTEN BY TIM MILHORN
Let’s start with the occasional last day of the month, February 29. Yes! It’s National Frog Legs Day! Every leap year! Get it? LEAP Year. Hahaha! I tried frog legs once, but they made me a little jumpy. The cook put too much salt on them and I was hopping mad! One time I ate so many I thought I was going to croak! Actually, frog meat tastes pretty good, but you don’t want to get it stuck in your throat.
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By Kevin Dolan
All I Really Needed to Know I Learned as Editor-in-Chief of Upgraded Living Magazine Special thanks to Robert Fulghum for his inspiration and genius. ALL I REALLY NEEDED TO KNOW about how to live and what to do and how to be I learned as Editor-in-Chief of Upgraded Living. Wisdom was not between the elevated pages of The Economist and its regal place in journalism, but right there in the 64-page shiny rag we publish each month. From the eye-catching covers to the inside content, written with care and skill. To the clever and attention moving advertisements dotted across the layout. All of which paves the path on just how to navigate the community waters. These are the things I learned : Share experiences. Stay focused. Don't ignore people. Put things in a fashion they can be understood. CLEAN UP WHEN THINGS GET MESSY. Don't write down things that weren’t said to you. Say you're SORRY when you WRONG somebody. Clear your head before you write. Delete. Dark roast with room for cream and a scone are good for you. Live a balanced life—research some and draft some and ponder some and fret some and laugh and venture and revise and relax—everyday some. Take a walk every afternoon. When you go out into the world, take an extra pen, trust your instincts, and be we not me. Be aware of wonder. Consider the fact we are all amateurs under the spotlight: The guard goes down and the interviewee lights up and nobody really understands how or why, but they are all like that. Developers and do-gooders, even the youthful school kids holding on to their cool—they all forget. So do I. And then remember Dr. Seuss and Shel Silverstein and not only their books but, more so, how they embrace curiosity. And then, recall your first takeaway—the biggest takeaway of all— “Leave your inquiring mind open.”
Everything you need to know is in there somewhere. Respect and humility and the fact that Stephen King was right—time is most definitely obdurate. Community and setting politics aside and how courtesy goes hand-in-hand with empathy. Strive for perfection but do not count on it. Yes, indeed, it is all there. I know, it’s been a four-year journey.
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