Pout PoutLove Love
A l u s c i o u s , p l u m p l i p e x u d e s c o n f i d e n c e , a l l u r e , a n d t i m e l e s s
b e a u t y L i p f i l l e r s h a v e b e c o m e t h e g o - t o t r e a t m e n t f o r
a c h i e v i n g e f f o r t l e s s l y g l a m o u r o u s , k i s s a b l e l i p s , w h e t h e r y o u
d e s i r e a s u b t l e l i f t o r d r a m a t i c v o l u m e .
L i p f i l l e r s a r e n o n - s u r g i c a l i n j e c t a b l e s , t y p i c a l l y m a d e o f h y a l u r o n i c a c i d , d e s i g n e d t o a d d v o l u m e , s h a p e , a n d s m o o t h n e s s t o y o u r l i p s A t r e a t m e n t
t h a t r e s t o r e s y o u t h f u l n e s s w h i l e e n h a n c i n g l i p c o n t o u r s . Q u i c k , e f f e c t i v e , a n d t a i l o r e d t o y o u w i t h i n s t a n t r e s u l t s a n d m i n i m a l d o w n t i m e
C o n s u l t a t i o n Y o u r e x p e r t i n j e c t o r w i l l a s s e s s y o u r l i p s a n d h e l p d e f i n e y o u r i d e a l l k
P r o c e d u r e E x p e c t a r e l a t i v e l y q u i c k t r e a t m e n t w i t h n u m b i n g c r e a m f o r c o m f
T h e p r o c e s s t a k e s 3 0 - 6 0 m i n u t e s q u i c k , e a s y , a n d v i r t u a l l y p a i n
T h e R e s u l t s A p l u m p , y o u t h f u l p o u t i n s t a n t l y A n y s w e l l i n g w i l l s u b s i d e w i t h i n d a y s , r e v e a l i n g y o u r p e r f e c t l i p s
R e c o v e r y T h e t r e a t m e n t i s v i r t u a l l y p a i n - f r e e , w i t h m i l d s w e l l i n g a n d b r u i s i n g
t h a t f a d e s i n a f e w d a y s . T h e r e s u l t s ? S t u n n i n g a n d e f f o r t l e s s .
S a f e t y W h e n d o n e b y a n e x p e r i e n c e d p r o f e s s i o n a l , l i p f i l l e r s a r e s a f e a n d e f f e c t i v e .
O n l y F D A - a p p r o v e d p r o d u c t s a r e u s e d , e n s u r i n g h i g h - q u a l i t y r e s u l t s
P l u m p & P r o t e c t P l u m p & P r o t e c t
T h i s l u x e l i p t r e a t m e n t e n h a n c e s y o u r l i p f i l l e r r e s u l t s
b y h y d r a t i n g , p r o t e c t i n g , a n d r e s t o r i n g v o l u m e W i t h
l a s t i n g h y d r a t i o n a n d i m p r o v e d l i p h e a l t h , i t k e e p s
y o u r l i p s l o o k i n g f u l l e r a n d m o r e r a d i a n t
FROM THE PUBLISHER
Growing up, my sister and I were blessed to have two parents who loved to cook. Both came from cultures where food was more than sustenance—it was a complete love language. Each made their favorite items from back home with love and care, just like their parents did before them, and took pride in those creations. Eating together around the dinner table was one of the most important parts of our day, and finishing our plates brought them noticeable joy. The exercise gave us the time and opportunity to get to know each other on a deeper level. It also expanded our palates to spices and flavors we otherwise may not have experienced from around the world.
Many of my fondest memories are connected to those dinners, and they have shaped me well into adulthood. When friends want to catch up, I always suggest doing so around breakfast, lunch, or dinner. For whatever reason, upbringing or otherwise, those meals always seem to harbor greater meaning and commit themselves to memory with more prominent relevance.
Given the above, it likely comes as no surprise that I’m always excited when one of our food issues comes along. Aside from the significant increase in daily caloric intake, the issues motivate us to go out into the community and try something or somewhere new. As someone who considers himself to be an amateur foodie and knowledgeable about the local food scene, I often find myself surprised at the places I haven't visited or missed entirely. Some of these purveyors simply flew under my radar, while others I skipped due to misplaced and often incorrect expectations. The food issue always does an excellent job of putting me in my place and reminding me never to judge a book by its cover.
In this issue, we explored 30 restaurants, bars, and food trucks, each with its own unique vibe and offerings. Per usual, the caloric intake was off the charts, perfectly in line with the flavor, hospitality, and excitement we experienced at each. To say these chefs, restaurateurs, and bar owners are passionate would be an understatement. Each infuses love and care into not just the food and drinks they create but also their customers' experience. The joy on their faces was evident with each bite of their food we devoured—just as it was on my parents' faces when we were children. I still love seeing that look on their faces today.
The restaurant business is difficult, and seldom do those making and serving your food get the credit they deserve. Parenting, I imagine, is likely the same. Take the time this month to show appreciation for those who care about you and your experience, whether in life or in what you eat. You'll likely find, as I have many times, that a small compliment or thank you goes a long way in both areas.
UPGRADED LIVING
AVEED KHAKI Owner/Publisher
MICHAELA GULBRANSEN Writer and Account Executive
SHELLY BRANDON Writer
TIM MILHORN Writer
MATTHEW SYLVIA Writer
MELANIE WALSH PHOTOGRAPHY Cover Story Photographer
CONTRIBUTORS
JASON CORONA Sales Director DOUG LOVE Real Estate
DOLORES MITCHELL Art
ERIN MATHIS Style
CORRECTION CORNER
In the last issue of Upgraded Living, our article on the Cleveland's choice to go solar had a handful of mistakes, and we wanted to set them straight! The name of their hotel is the Artistry Inn, and though a number of family members live on the same block, they do not own the entire cul-desac! Please visit them on Instagram @artistryinn or email artistryinnchico@gmail.com for reservations.
For sales inquiries, please contact: Jason Corona, 530.591.2634 jason@upgradedliving.com
Aveed Khaki Owner/Publisher
FOOD
Ashley Juhl-Darlington invites us into her beautiful new bodega-style market, Bapa's.
Foodie Cafe launches a brand new breakfast menu and expanded hours offering a delicious way to start your day.
Soup's on! Discover Butte County's best choices for a warm bowl of comfort to help cut through the cold during these winter months!
Catch your favorite sporting events or just take a much deserved breather with delicious menu items from some of our favorite local pubs.
Explore some of our favorite foodie locales in this month's bar and restaurant spotlights!
We open the doors to six Butte County tasting rooms that offer so much more than a perfect pour.
Four of our favorite food trucks, each with a style and cuisine completely their own, reveal their newest dishes.
Family-owned and operated, Baugher Ranch Organics sets a new standard for Almonds in the North Valley.
Our almond granola bar recipe will keep you satiated all winter long.
ART
Matthew Sylvia explores the history and relevance of the Pageant Theatre in the Chico film scene.
Dolores Mitchell finds the intersection between food and art with three local artists.
Chico Sunrise Rotary teams up with Cool Kid Madison Samora to provide Caper Acres with a brand new look firmly rooted in art.
COMMUNITY & MORE
Chico's only age-in-place senior community gets a new name. The Terraces is now Westmont of Chico.
Explore Privvy Health and the myriad ways they're helping residents stay healthy in 2025.
Have a hole in your heart? You aren't alone. Learn about patent foramen ovale (PFO) from our friends at Enloe Health.
Scott and Kelly Schulman find the key to free electricity.
Doug Love relates a foodie tale many of us can relate to in this month's column.
Erika Itzel and sister Adilene encourage individuality and self expression at their new shop, PLUR Aura.
Erin Mathis provides a masterclass on styling one's self for romance.
COVER STORY
ICON Family Health Care dishes on food, health, and primary care at their new office. PLUS, check out the healthy menu items at Burban Kitchen that earn their recommendation.
Your Neighborhood Market
Looking for that perfect wine to bring to dinner, fresh veggies to throw a bright salad together, or a unique gift? Bapa’s Market in Meriam Park has everything you need. Welcome to the neighborhood’s only boutique grocery market focusing on fresh, local foods and unique finds.
Bapa’s Market started from something simple: Owner Ashley JuhlDarlington (Williams) wanted to shop close to home. Before opening the market, she was the practice manager for a local healthcare clinic. Living and working near Meriam Park, Ashley would have loved to swing by a neighborhood market and grab some groceries on her way home. She had been involved in healthcare since she was 18, so opening a healthoriented market made sense. She calls it healthcare reimagined.
“I’ve always loved finding little markets when I travel—stores that carry healthy foods and are just fun to visit,” Ashley said. After college, she worked at Chico Natural Foods Co-Op and S&S Organic Produce & Natural Foods. Ashley shares, “It’s always been something important to me.” In refining her idea for the market, she considered her visits to San Francisco and New York, where each little section of the neighborhood has that one grocery that centers the community. These markets, or neighborhood bodegas, were the inspiration behind Bapa’s personality. From the moment you enter the sunny market, with its windowed storefront, you get that warm, welcoming feel Ashley intended.
Bapa’s comes from the name Ashley had for her grandfather growing up. He was a business-minded family man who instilled the importance of community connections and giving back. This idea resonates with Ashley. She values her role in the community and welcomes the opportunity to give back to the city she grew up in. “I was in healthcare for 30 years, so helping people has always been important to me. Instead of my clinical piece, I’m giving back in a way that fuels people positively while providing something that’s a necessity.”
When you visit Bapa’s, you can get everything you need in one place— produce, baked goods, meats, cheeses, sweets, beverages, pantry essentials, and more—many of which are sourced locally. Ashley joined the Independent Natural Food Retailers Association, which helps smaller health-focused markets receive better buying power with various distributors. This enables her to keep prices competitive while offering high-quality products. Ashley also relies on local producers like Maisie Jane’s, Lundberg Family Farms, Sierra Nevada Brewing Co., and Sierra Nevada Cheese Company. She looks to Napa health stores for ideas and taps into TikTok and Instagram trends, thanks to her kids in their late teens and early twenties. Everything from sea moss gummies to Coconut Cult probiotic yogurt can be found in the beautifully stocked store. Ashley even carries unique gift items from product lines not seen at other stores. If you’re having trouble finding something, just ask.
Bapa’s’ friendly employees are as welcoming as the store itself.
Located between The Barn and Roselle in the up-and-coming area of Meriam Park, Bapa's Market can't wait to welcome you into their warm, friendly marketplace. Their hours are Monday-Tuesday from 9 am to 6 pm, Wednesday-Saturday from 8 am to 8 pm, and Sunday from 9 am to 4 pm. Stop by 1920 Market Place, Suite 120, in Chico’s Meriam Park community, to see what’s in the sunny storefront today.
Breakfast is Served at foodie cafe
Reopened in 2023 at its original location on Marauder Street near the Chico Airport, Foodie Cafe specializes in sandwiches and burgers from scratch—making their sauces, pastrami, and hand-formed burgers inhouse with Truckee Sourdough bread. Executive Chef Jason York has run the kitchen for the past five years and brings explosive new flavors to their menu, which you’ll surely find in items like their famous grilled pastrami, one they promise will be the best you’ve ever had.
If you’ve followed Foodie Cafe through its locations over the years, you likely have some favorites of your own. Fear not—you can still find the best-selling items from their old location on their new menu, including their Blackberry Bacon Grilled Cheese and Foodie Cheeseburger. Protip: always order the smoked garlic fries. It doesn’t matter which dish you order them with or if you don’t order anything else at all—they’re an item you won’t want to miss. If you’re looking to find the best fried chicken sandwich in town, their Mother Clucker is a strong contender.
The next evolution of Foodie Cafe launches this month, and it may seem all too obvious if you ever had the pleasure of indulging in one of their Saturday brunches at the old location. With a new breakfast menu and expanded operating hours starting mid-February, they’ll offer a delicious way to begin your morning Tuesday through Saturday, starting at 7:30am. With items like The Deep South; The East Coast; The Monte Cristo; The Dodo Bird; and Tot Rockets, all pictured to the left, Foodie Cafe will offer a breakfast lover’s dream menu alongside milkshakes (with and without alcohol), mimosas, bloody Marys, coffee, and a variety of juices. And there are plenty of additional breakfast options to come.
“Many of the menu items are a take on classic breakfast staples, but in sandwich form.” Chef Jason says, “We just kicked each one up a few notches.” Chef Boyd continues, “It’s all about flavor, and we wanted each item to have multiple layers of it. We use fresh, local ingredients, and our customers loved Saturday brunch at the old location, so we decided to make it a daily option here.”
Foodie Cafe is also home to Chico Catering Co., the third oldest catering company in town but the longest-running with its original owner. Over the past 19 years, they’ve specialized in weddings and special events with not-so-traditional menus like gourmet tacos, burritos, burgers, pasta, and s’mores bars alongside their signature BBQ. “We offer a much wider range of catering options than most would expect.” Chef Boyd laughs, “I love a good challenge. We’ve done Filipino, Caribbean, Irish, and Hawaiian caterings, where those in attendance told us the food was better than their grandma’s cooking. I take those challenges seriously and have even hired chefs who specialize in those cuisines to train me in their various methods so our catering is as authentic as possible. It’s about doing it at least the same if not better.”
If you’re looking for food that reminds you of home with flavors you won’t find anywhere else, look no further than the Foodie Cafe and Chico Catering Company. You can visit them at 999 Marauder Street in Chico, call them at (530) 720-4726, or find them online at www.ChicoCateringCo.com and TheFoodieCafe.com.
WINE TIME
26 Lost Dutchman Drive, Chico (530) 899-9250
We often hear, “Where can I get good soup?” You’ll likely hear Wine Time mentioned shortly thereafter, and it’s no surprise, as Chef Sereda’s creations are packed with flavor. The soup flight at Wine Time includes three delicious rotating options.
On our visit, we were treated to a hearty beef barley that would make Scotland proud; their soul-warming roasted apple and butternut squash; and a rich, creamy Hungarian mushroom soup. Top it off with their warm Camina baguette, and your winter bucket list is complete.
BROADWAY HEIGHTS
300 Broadway Street, Chico (530) 899-8075
Broadway Heights is known for its comfort foods—hearty sandwiches, brick-oven pizzas, and more—but few things satisfy on a cold winter day quite like one of their soups. Count on their signature tomato soup loaded with roasted garlic and Parmesan cheese every day of the week. Looking for something different? They've got a hearty baked potato soup on Monday and one of the best clam chowders in town on Friday. Paired with their housemade focaccia bread, this will surely become part of your weekly routine all winter long.
PHO NOODLE HOUSE
1898 Bird Street, Oroville (530) 532-9630
House Special Number 20, also known as the combination pho, is a mammoth bowl of warm goodness. Their 24-hour beef bone broth features hints of charred sugar cane and star anise. Within, steamed rice noodles absorb the flavor of large shrimp, thick sliced meatballs, and rare steak that finishes cooking in the steamy broth. Finally, it is topped with onions and toasted garlic. Served on the side are jalapeños, Thai basil, and mung bean noodles for added texture. If you love pho, this is one you won’t want to miss.
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OROVILLE
RALIBERTO'S
2031 Forest Avenue, Chico (530) 566-9659
A feast for the eyes and the stomach alike, Raliberto's means business when it comes to their soups. Their caldo de res offers a thick beef shank floating in a bone broth brimming with potatoes, cabbage, carrots, green beans, and zucchini. A traditional favorite, their albondigas is a vibrant meatball soup in a tomato base broth with many of the same veggies as the previous offering. Served with tortillas, onion, and cilantro, both can be enjoyed as tacos with the broth on the side or true-to-form as soup. The choice is yours.
PARKSIDE TAP HOUSE
115 W 3rd Street, Chico (530) 636-4239
Bacon-wrapped jalapeños, burgers, beer cheese & pretzels, and a giant beer and spirit menu—there's plenty to love at Parkside, but one might not look there as a go-to for soups. That person would be missing out! Chef Tom and his kitchen team work diligently each and every week to come up with a new recipe for their ever-rotating soup menu. Pictured to the left was their Roasted Vegetable Red Curry with a side of rice—the perfect hot and hearty dish to cut through the cold winter temperatures. Check out their social media pages or visit in person to see what soup's on any particular week at Parkside.
PARK AVE PUB
2010 Park Avenue, Chico (530) 893-3500
If you're looking for variety, look no further than our friends at Park Ave Pub and their soup sampler trio. On perpetual rotation, you can always expect a pleasant surprise, and just the right serving size of each. On our visit, they were serving up Hungarian mushroom, potato soup, and a deliciously rich lasagna soup which found itself blurred into the photo's background, likely because it requires an immediate nap with each serving.
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PROVISIONS
1975 Montgomery Street, Oroville (530) 282-4316
As indulgent a menu item as you could ever find, it’s difficult not to make the pastrami pub fries an every-visit appetizer order. The pub fries are prepared with a four-cheese sauce, shredded mozzarella, and topped with pastrami grilled with butter and garlic. Finished with a drizzle of their house-made spicy mustard and chopped parsley, it’s a showstopper as it arrives on your table and tastes every bit as amazing as it looks!
QUACKERS BAR & GRILL
968 East Avenue, Chico (530) 895-3825
Excellent, friendly service is only so much when it comes to satisfying the visitors of a town bar and grill. Consistently delicious food is a must, and the menu at Quackers is full of favorites sure to keep visitors coming back for more. This loaded pastrami sandwich brings salt from the quality sliced meat and gooey melted cheese, tang from the mustard and pepperoncini slices, and a lightly crunchy texture from the toasted baguette. Add their garlic fries for the full experience.
BEER LOBO
800 Broadway Street, Chico (530) 592-3087
A great pub should have unique fare to match the finely curated items on its drink list. Preston Farris delivers his flare for flavor with Dragon Eggs—an umami take on a pub favorite. Cured in soy, sriracha, rice vinegar, and mirin, then loaded with a honey and mustard miso filling, these eggs are topped with housemade chili oil, chopped shallots, and minced garlic. This dish will awaken your tastebuds and make the next sip of craft beer more layered than the one before.
OROVILLE
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BELLA'S SPORTS PUB
231 Main Street, Chico (530) 893-5253
If there's a better spot in town to catch a game, we have yet to find it. Not only does Bella's have just about every televised sporting package you could imagine but they also have our favorite wings and an insane variety of flavors. Choose from BBQ, Bella's buffalo, Cajun dry rub, dirty, dry, honey sriracha, garlic Parmesan, lemon pepper dry rub, spicy Thai, Sun Devil, tiger, or sea salt and cracked pepper. Not to be outdone, they also have 13 dips to complement your wing order. Wing Wednesdays offer these delicious beauties at an unbeatable price and an evening of trivia to boot, so mark your calendars and head down there this week!
THE TACKLE BOX
379 E. Park Avenue, Chico (530) 345-7499
Known for its rich flavors, the value of its weekly specials, and excellent entertainment, The Tackle Box was a must-visit for our pub grub tour. The “why” was obvious—the famous gator bites. Perfectly pillowy and tender gator pieces are fried to golden gorgeousness in their beer batter tempura blend. Each bite melts in your mouth, making it difficult to share with others. Served with their flaky and fluffy seasoned fries—and the tangy gator sauce—this is undoubtedly a southern dish worthy of praise.
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The Terraces is now Westmont of Chico
If you’ve driven down Sierra Sunrise Terrace recently in Chico’s California Park subdivision, you may have noticed a new sign atop one of the street’s most prominent buildings announcing Westmont of Chico. Assuming you drive the street often, you may also wonder what happened to The Terraces—Chico’s only age-in-place senior living community. For those who are already aware of the myriad benefits The Terraces offers our area, you’ll be pleased to know the two are one and the same, and nothing has changed besides the community’s name.
“The change can understandably be confusing for those who weren’t already internally familiar with our community.” Westmont of Chico’s Executive Director Brad Azevedo says, “The company has always been Westmont Living, we just held off on changing the well-known iconic name here at The Terraces until now.”
Originally built by Walker Methodist Homes, along with a group of retired professors from Chico State in 1992, Sierra Sunrise Retirement Village, also known as The Terraces, was one of Chico’s first retirement communities, consisting of 108 independent senior
living apartments—now known as The Lodge—and 24 units of assisted living— now known as The Inn. In 1995, a 90-bed skilled nursing facility was added to the community, completing its residential offerings at the time.
In 2001, the community found itself out of funds and was eventually purchased by Westmont Living in April of 2006. “Though Westmont operates 19 other senior living communities throughout California and Oregon, The Terraces is the largest and certainly the most unique due to its large campus and age-in-place program.” Brad explained, “Our team works very hard to make sure we provide the best possible amenities and care for our residents and guests.”
Now appropriately designated as Westmont of Chico, the community is home to considerably more than its original development in the 90s. The Lodge consists of 116 apartments of independent senior living, The Inn has 80 apartments of assisted senior living, and Compass Rose hosts 28 apartments of memory care, allowing seniors to age in place gracefully, meeting each where they are as their needs evolve.
The community is set on 11 beautiful grassy acres of wildlife surrounding California Park Lake and has every amenity one could imagine. Westmont of Chico employs 120 staff members, depending on the day, and seniors can count on receiving the attention they deserve when they need it. Between two full-service kitchens and dining rooms, tons of social activities, housekeeping, and more, people who want to enjoy a great senior lifestyle while getting away from the complexities of managing their own house and property can easily do so. Living spaces range in size from studios to two-bedroom apartments and residents have access to an on-site pool, gym, movie theaters, game rooms, and so much more.
With every amenity you could imagine, a dedicated team of caregivers, and a convenient and beautiful location on the lake at California Park that provides the at-home, sophisticated feel we all want as we age, few places can compete with what is offered at Westmont of Chico. Visit them online at www.westmontofchico.com or call (530) 767-3886 to schedule a tour for yourself or a loved one.
Indulge Yourself
In the ever-evolving healthcare and wellness landscape, a new paradigm has emerged, seamlessly blending cutting-edge medical expertise with a luxurious, spa-like environment. Introducing the bestkept secret in Chico, Privvy Modern Health, a haven where individuals seeking to transform their physical and mental well-being can find solace, rejuvenation, and the most advanced, proprietary therapeutic solutions. Indulge in a tailored-to-you experience that focuses on your needs every step of the way. Privvy’s mission extends far beyond the realm of traditional medical spas. Here, you'll discover a meticulously curated menu of services that cater to the discerning tastes and unique requirements of its clientele.
Nestled in the heart of Chico at two convenient locations, Privvy Modern Health, with its sleek, sophisticated design and discreet ambiance, has quickly become the go-to destination for those seeking to optimize their health, enhance their physical beauty, and embark on a journey of self-discovery. Whether it’s smoother skin, a more sculpted silhouette, or a more youthful radiance you’re seeking, they offer results-driven treatments in a serene, luxurious environment. At the core of Privvy Modern Health's offerings is a comprehensive curation of proprietary weight loss programs, a meticulously crafted collection of aesthetic treatments, and revolutionary IV therapy nutrition regimens, all tailored to address each individual's unique needs and aspirations.
Privvy's weight loss programs, developed by Dr. Nerissa Prieto, offer a unique approach to sustainable transformation. They incorporate state-of-the-art technology, personalized nutrition plans, and customdesigned routines, setting you up for long-term success. Losing has never made you feel like such a winner! Their aesthetic services, led by the skilled hands of Privvy’s licensed nurse team, cater to those seeking to enhance their natural beauty through advanced skin rejuvenation treatments, noninvasive laser contouring, or the latest in injectables.
For those seeking to elevate their holistic wellness, Privvy's exclusive IV therapy nutrition offerings, administered by their in-house registered nurses, provide a revolutionary approach to replenishing vital nutrients, boosting energy levels, and supporting overall health and well-being. Their clients have experienced remarkable results, reporting increased vitality, improved skin, and a renewed sense of balance and resilience.
At Privvy, true wellness is not merely a destination but a journey that requires personalized guidance, cutting-edge expertise, and a commitment to each individual's unique needs. Their family of highly trained medical professionals, each passionate about their craft, work diligently to ensure every client who walks through their doors feels refreshed, radiant, empowered, rejuvenated, and inspired to continue their journey towards optimal health and beauty. So, whether you're seeking to shed those stubborn pounds, revitalize your skin, or simply replenish your body's essential nutrients, elevate your well-being with Privvy Modern Health. It’s your one-stop destination for a healthier, happier, more vibrant you, where innovation meets luxury, and transformation becomes a way of life.
Indulge in self care at Privvy Modern Health, located in the Chico Mall. Visit www.PrivvyHealth.com for more information or to schedule an appointment.
Making hearts whole
About 25% of humans live with holes in their hearts. Are you shocked?
It’s not necessarily as serious as it sounds. Most people who have a patent foramen ovale (PFO) live healthy, productive lives. Few experience symptoms. In the majority, the hole closes shortly after birth. But what if it doesn’t?
“Usually, it has no effect,” said Shailesh Nandish, M.D., Enloe Health’s Medical Director of Structural Heart & TAVR and the Cardiac Cath Lab. The interventional cardiologist called PFO “a hole in the heart between the two upper atrial chambers” and said it’s a natural phenomenon for a fetus.
“It’s an open communication inside the developing infant’s heart,” Dr. Nandish said. “Since blood isn’t pumping through the lungs of the fetus, oxygenation comes straight from mother to child [through the umbilical cord].”
However, “once the baby is born, the lungs expand with air, and the hole closes off, but in 25% of people, it doesn’t close,” he said. This means the “flaps” that exist during gestation don’t fuse.
The danger, then, is with the remaining gap. “Some are small, and some are large,” Dr. Nandish said. A clot can form somewhere within the body and get pumped into the arteries serving the brain or heart. If it’s the brain, a stroke is often a result, but the cause of the stroke can confuse clinicians and result in ineffective treatment.
That’s where Dr. Nandish and his diagnosing methodology come in—involving cardiologists and neurologists in the case of apparent stroke victims, especially if they’re young.
Dr. Nandish said he investigates the cause of a stroke before deciding to pursue a closure procedure. The structural heart team collaborates with the neurology team
to evaluate every patient with a PFO and stroke.
“If the PFO is the only explanation, we decide to treat the PFO to decrease the chances of a recurrent stroke,” he said. “We have to make sure, from a neurology perspective, that it was a stroke. We determine there were no other causes, like a blockage in the neck or anywhere in the brain. We want to make sure there is no AFib—atrial fibrillation, an irregular heartbeat—causing the stroke, among other things.”
Dr. Nandish said his objective “is not to fix everyone with a PFO, but only people with stroke who have no other apparent causes of stroke.”
This procedure can be critically important. Ann Hervey, 59, of Chico, is one beneficiary of Dr. Nandish’s skill. She suffered a stroke in May 2023 and—following evaluation by Dr. Nandish and neurologist Paramjit Singh, M.D.—became a candidate for PFO repair.
“I went through all the normal protocols, and it showed I didn’t fit the normal parameters [of stroke],” Hervey said. “They found I had a hole in my heart and decided to do the PFO procedure. They thought the blood clot went through the hole.”
During a highly stressful time, Hervey said Dr. Nandish eased her mind, explaining everything the procedure involved.
“I didn’t have any worries,” Hervey recalled. “Dr. Nandish has a really good bedside manner and makes it to where you can understand, even if you’re not a heart specialist.”
Especially gratifying to Hervey is the fact this procedure is available in Chico. One of her friends also suffered a PFO-related stroke and had to travel to San Francisco for PFO repair.
With 25 years of experience and practicing at Enloe Health since 2019, Dr. Nandish said Enloe Health is “a place for growth and expansion for these progressive procedures to benefit our community.
“We’re making sure we provide the same standard of care as anyone visiting a doctor in Sacramento and San Francisco,” he said.
Left to right: Stacey Owen and Ann Hervey
An investment worth making
If you’ve lived in Chico for some time, you’ve undoubtedly come across Scott Schulman. As half of the original duo behind Downtown Chico’s Brooklyn Bridge Bagel Company, he played the memorable muttering curly-haired curmudgeon in their commercials, though his actual demeanor was quite the opposite. Always ready with a deadpan joke or anecdote, Scott has long been a favorite face at the magazine. Though most know him for his time at Brooklyn Bridge, his success story extends long before and after his time there.
Shortly after earning his master’s degree at Chico State, Scott scraped together $5,000 with a friend and opened his first business, Oy Vey Bagel Company. Armed with a card table, pizza oven, old refrigerator, sink, and mixer, he turned that fledgling business into a bagel empire. Within a few short years, it was producing over 60,000 bagels per day for Lucky Supermarkets alone and eventually managed to expand to 35 states and three countries producing all manner of bagel products before he sold the business. From there, he opened, purchased, and operated a number of notable Chico restaurants including La Salles, Hatch Cover, Morning Thunder, Oy Vey Cafe, Brooklyn Bridge Bagel Works,
and Broadway Heights. He married his wife, Kelly, at the age of 42 and the two went on to create successes of their own including a resort they built together in Tavioni, Fiji.
“My first real experience with solar was at our resort in Fiji.” Scott said, “There was no electricity, so we added solar panels.”
In 2012, when energy bills started to skyrocket in Northern California, Scott decided it was time to look at installing solar at home. “We have a large house outside of Durham.” He explained, “Our energy bills were reaching $1,200 per month, so I began contacting contractors to get prices and educated myself on panels and equipment. I stopped into Urban Design and asked them how many panels I might need. The owner, Sean McCreary, was honest and straightforward with me. His number was in line with what I had calculated, and his pricing was fair, so I went with him.”
Urban Design’s team arrived at Scott’s house and installed a ground-mount system in their yard. “The guys were just great to work with and so considerate about our experience.” Scott raved, “We flipped the switch, and we’ve been on solar ever since. It took us two-and-
a-half years to pay off the entire solar installation. I continue to say it’s one of the best investments I’ve made.”
As the years went on, Scott wanted to further distance himself from traditional energy, so he began replacing his gas and propane appliances with electric. “We’re ninety percent electric now.” Scott said, “I haven’t paid PG&E a dime in over ten years. In fact, they pay us $250 each month, and that puts a smile on my face every day. When our water heater finally goes out, I’ll switch that to on-demand electric as well, and our panels generate more than enough electricity to cover it and more. I can’t say enough good things about Sean and the team at Urban Design. He’s a great human, very decent, and I trust him to be fair. I send everyone I know his way for those reasons.”
If you’re looking for a delicious lunch or dinner, visit Scott at Broadway Heights in Downtown Chico. If you’re looking to save money on your energy bill, look no further than Urban Design. Visit them online at www.UrbanDesignSolar.com for more information.
Effie will take the time to consider your needs, will explain real estate law, will always pick up the phone and most of all has many years of experience in the area. -Kevin R., Chico
Everything in this home has been crafted by the most professional contractors in the area. The kitchen is a chef's delight and sports top of the line appliances, quartz countertops, custom cabinetry and plenty of storage. The family room is spacious and open to the kitchen—truly, an entertainers dream. The canned lighting complements the natural light with ample light in every room. It is also an Energy Star Home with owned solar. There are two bedrooms with an office or bonus room off of the family room. The primary en-suite is a delight with a custom walk in closet and a primary bath with dual sinks, walk in shower and a view to your amazing back yard. The sky is the limit with what can be done out back—plenty of privacy and space for an outdoor BBQ area, fire pit, swing set, or whatever your heart desires. The lot is large and the garage is oversized with a garage door opener that is based at the side of the garage, RV potential and look at that custom metal fence. Located in lower Paradise and an exceptional neighborhood. A must see!
Bed: 2.0 Bath: 2.0 SqFt: 1,318 Price: $399,999
This 3 bedroom, 2 full bath home is located in the highly sought-after Meadow Brook Ranch community in Chico! The interior features an open floor plan that seamlessly integrates the family room, dining area, and kitchen, creating a welcoming and airy atmosphere. The family room boasts sleek, high-quality quartz countertops and flooring, exuding sophistication and durability. The kitchen includes white beech wood shaker cabinets, stainless steel appliances, luxury vinyl planked floors, quartz countertops, a large island, plenty of counter space, and a pantry. The primary suite has dual vanities, under mounted sinks, upgraded counters and an upgraded shower. This property also has solar.
Bed: 3.0 Bath: 2.0 SqFt: 1,455 Price: $499,999
Real Chow
My association with food and real estate takes me back through the years into the restaurants and eateries of our territory— two in particular.
In the 1980s, we Realtors constantly drove around town, much more than now, because we had to meet each other in person to deliver our offers, counter-offers, and all manner of paperwork. No email or text existed, not even a phone, other than those attached to a wall by a cord. The fax machine was the first transmission device to enter our world, but it took so long to deliver and receive documents it was faster to drive across town. As it slowly printed, the machine’s screeching howl drove you outside anyway.
It was natural to say, “I’ll meet you at suchand-such place,” often a restaurant, for the hand-off. Realtors are notorious for eating on the run, in any event, and are frequent eatery customers all around town and territory.
On my first day in the business, my mentor, the great KDV, said, “Hey, babe, let’s go down to the board office and pick up the hot sheets. We’ll stop for a dog on the way.” Hot sheets were the printed lists of new listings on the market. Again, no electronic forms of
data transfer existed; hence, another reason to drive to pick up paper copies. A dog was a hot dog (in KDV’s case, a chili dog) at Big Al’s Drive-In.
That afternoon, KDV insisted we drop by The Hatchcover for happy hour. It was an upscale dining establishment with a popular homey bar. In my memory, I see Christmas lights strung around the bar all year long. KDV knew the owner, the bartender, and everyone who frequented, so he was a busy guy as he puffed on his hand-rolled cigarette and greeted people with “Hey, bro” and “Hey, babe,” non-gender specific. In my memory, I also see a menu with ridiculously low prices. I just searched online and found a copy of a Hatchcover menu from the time: Steak and two enchiladas, $6.95; Chicken Cordon Bleu, $7.50. Along with low prices came the free haze of smoke permeating the atmosphere.
Fond memories abound. The Hatchcover is gone, but Big Al’s Drive-In awaits the next visit. Big Al’s has it all, and as it says on the sign, “Our Shakes are Triple Thick!”
Doug Love is Sales Manager at Century 21 in Chico. Email dougwlove@gmail.com. Call or text 530-680-0817.
"Sherry has assisted us in purchasing and selling four homes over the years we lived in Chico. Her knowledge and experience of the Chico area are a must. This time selling and moving out of state brought new challenges. The fact that Sherry is a very trustworthy person set our minds at ease. We cannot recommend her enough." - Marcia Bauer
This Country-Ranch charmer with elegance was originally built in the 30's/early 40's and we are told "shorty" was an owner/builder who was a stone cutter from Afghanistan!! You will appreciate seeing his work with the amazing hand cut granite walls and foundation that he knew his craft! This wonderful design truly brings the outside in with amazing natural light just pouring through the windows. It's fun to hike on your own 15-acre landscaped estate with fenced and cross-fenced areas. The sunsets on the top of the property are simply breathtaking! If you love fruit trees, here are a few that adorn this slice of heaven - Apple, Pear, Asian Pear, Plum, Nectarine, Apricot, Peach, Pomegranate, Fig, Olive, Pecan, Blackberries and Raspberries too! Don't worry about being bored here as you are close to swimming, boating, fishing & hunting. This home is located 3/4 mile from Lake Wyandotte, 4 miles from Lake Oroville. It's off the beaten path on a secluded tranquil spot. There is still Lots of adventure and wonder are still left for the new buyer while they explore! Gas, grocery and shopping are close by. The bus even stops for school at the corner!! With the remodeled kitchen and all new appliances, natural spring, seasonal creek, 2 water wells, large pole barn, tack barn, stone and cedar smoke house. Bed: 3.0 Bath: 2.0 SqFt: 2,030 Price: $549,000
$1,700,000
Envision yourself living in luxury while being right in the heart of Chico. Steps away from Chico State University. This home has all the luxuries of the modern world and the charm and character of the history it encompasses. It is warm and cozy when you first go through the front yard gates surrounded by trees. Open the front door and feel the sanctuary magic of a retreat. The inside has all the prestige without losing the feel of warm and intimate rooms. Also, preserving the originality of the Frank Lloyd Wright Prairie style architecture, while meticulously sparing no expense on luxury kitchens, bathrooms, and bedrooms. This beautiful home has three levels; the space perfectly designed for everyone to spread out and connect through family rooms, outside patios, and game rooms. Every room in this house has charm, character and functionality. Original Australian hardwood in the living room and dining room, granite and marble counters, black walnut kitchens and cabinetry, steam room, wine cellar, media room, whole house Sonos sound system, high-end appliances, walk-in closets, beautiful light fixtures, built-in cabinets, stain glass, original renovated wood windows, and custom crown molding throughout.The large primary bedroom on the main floor has a huge steam shower, walk-in closet, private throne room, and built-in cabinets that connect to the laundry room through built in drawers/laundry pass through cabinets, showcasing this homes opulence and functionality above the rest. Imagine now a home with all the luxury of enjoying the backyard thoughtfully created to entertain, swim, putt, relax in a Jacuzzi, and rejuvenate in a cold plunge. With space for four cars; a two-car garage with two more spaces behind an electric push-pad gate bring security and privacy. This neighborhood also comes with four passes to park on the streets.
Beautiful double lot in a prestgious gated community, just minutes from Chico! Enjoy these breath taking sunsets, and Chico lights on this level building site, complete with 2 sets of house plans!!! Feel like you're on vacation, yet you are at home and surrounded by custom homes in a small community of 24 Custom Homes. There is a 10 x 12 storage unit with each lot. Beautiful pool and BBQ for the community. Wildlife can be enjoyed at this one of a kind property and opportunity.
Acres: 1.59 Price: $74,900
Discover a healthier you at icon family health care
Every day, about 11,000 Americans turn 65, marking a major milestone not just in their personal lives but for the entire healthcare system. With over 4 million people crossing this threshold annually, the U.S. is feeling the impact of what’s often called the “silver tsunami.” This surge of Medicare-eligible adults is changing the healthcare landscape and presenting new challenges.
Older adults tend to need more regular doctor visits to manage chronic conditions like diabetes, heart disease, and arthritis. This means that primary care providers are facing significantly greater demand and, as a result, are stretched thin. In areas like Butte County, finding a primary care doctor is getting more challenging for every age group by the day. Wait times are getting longer, and fewer doctors can take on new patients. To deal with this, we’re seeing an increased use of telemedicine alongside reliance on nurse practitioners and physician assistants to fill the void in care.
Endocrinologist Dr. Michael Robinson, CEO of ICON Family Health Care, opened the practice in Chico to help the underserved primary care market. Its new location specializes in primary care, endocrine care through telehealth, and dermatology services. Dr. Robinson has been practicing medicine since 1976 and has a lengthy résumé. After retiring as a captain in the U.S. Army Medical Corps, he received his medical degree from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. He completed his fellowship in endocrinology and metabolism at the Mayo Clinic and Mayo Graduate School of Medicine in Rochester, Minnesota, where he was also a Mayo Foundation research fellow in bone and mineral metabolism. Since then, he has taught at UCLA School of Medicine and been a director of community diabetes and osteoporosis programs throughout the greater Los Angeles area.
Nurse Practitioner James Fields is another
of ICON’s providers in Chico, working to provide timely care for those who need it most without long appointment wait times. Originally from Frisco, Texas, James joined the military in 2006 and served our country as a United States Marine for four years. Field medicine sparked his interest, and his time in Iraq, Kuwait, and Germany gave him the training and discipline to pursue his interest further after he retired. He completed his prerequisites at San Diego Mira Costa Community College before being accepted into nursing school at Butte College.
James worked at Immediate Care throughout the pandemic, during one of the most turbulent and difficult times in health care. “As a nurse practitioner, I had a lot more autonomy than I did as a nurse, and I definitely needed it during the pandemic.”
James explains, “Beyond providing care for COVID-19 patients and the standard offerings of a walk-in clinic like Immediate
Left to right: Dr. Michael Robinson and Christian Steinbach of Burban Kitchen
Care, I provided urgent care for patients, including sutures, setting broken bones, dermatologic procedures, and much more. Due to the provider shortage in our area, I was tasked with filling the primary care gap. It was difficult, but I learned a lot during that time. One thing that became unavoidably evident was the number of individuals in our community, especially seniors, who didn’t have a primary care provider. That really stuck with me, and it’s one of the reasons I’m excited to bring my experience to ICON Family Health Care, where I know I can make a difference in the community and provide consistent care for those in need.”
James’ realization isn’t unique to this area. We are experiencing a similar strain on health care and lack of availability nationwide. Many local clinics throughout the country, including Immediate Care in Chico, closed shortly after the pandemic. On top of this, Medicare enrollment is skyrocketing. In 2024 alone, more than 32.8 million people were enrolled in Medicare Advantage plans—more than half of all those eligible. That’s a lot of people needing care, and it’s pushing the system to its limits. Policymakers are trying to figure out how to keep up by looking at ways to improve efficiency, coordinate care better, and focus more on preventing health problems before they get out of hand. Programs like Medicare Advantage aim to do just that by encouraging doctors to focus on long-term care and chronic disease management rather than treating issues as they arise, a shift that could help reduce some of the strain on the system. James and the team at ICON are at the forefront of that push.
“When it comes to being healthy, especially in our older years, the most important thing is prevention—not being retroactive but proactive about your health.” James explains, “It’s so important to build a relationship with a primary care provider and one you can consistently see. I learned long ago that a doctor is the last person people want to see, but we’re working to rewrite that norm. If we can find out a patient has diabetes when their blood sugar is 200 mg/dL instead of 800 mg/dL, we can help save so much unneeded damage to their kidneys, blood vessels, and nerve endings. A lot of the illnesses we treat are totally preventable—diabetes, hypertension, etc. In many cases, losing 10% of your body weight can get you off of medication altogether, and that’s one of my primary areas of focus—finding ways to get people off medication rather than putting them on it. Cancer is a similar situation. If we catch cancer early and cut it out when it’s a few centimeters in diameter, there’s no big fuss. The longer it takes to diagnose, the more difficult and invasive the treatment.”
James notes that staying healthy isn’t as difficult as many make it out to be, and small changes in habits can go a long way. Those small changes are the key to reducing the need for frequent doctor visits. Older adults can maintain their health by eating a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains while limiting processed foods and sugars. Regular physical activity, such as
ICON Receptionist, Hope
ICON Waiting Room
walking, swimming, or yoga, helps keep muscles strong and improves balance. Staying mentally engaged with activities like puzzles, reading, or learning new skills supports cognitive health. Social connections are also important—whether through volunteering, community activities, or simply staying in touch with family and friends. Though a healthy lifestyle is paramount, regular checkups and preventive screenings ensure that any health issues are caught early and managed appropriately.
“I always tell my patients to be creative.” James says, “Get in the habit of mixing things up. Go outside and take advantage of the incredible nature we have surrounding us. A quick walk outdoors is a great place to begin. Start slow and easy; work your way up as you can. Do the same thing with your eating habits. Add something green to each meal and other colors as you get used to it. Food should be colorful and appetizing, but it can take time for your taste buds to acclimate if they’ve been dependent on sugar, carbs, and meat for a long time. Modify your choices when you dine out. Elect to order menu items with more greens, healthy grains, and lean proteins. Get used to one change becoming the norm before you add something else. If you can stick to a change, no matter how small, it will become a habit, and each positive change paves the way for the next. You’ll be amazed at how quickly your body and health will respond.”
Dr. Robinson agrees. “As a vegetarian, I believe the best approach for an individual to maintain a healthy lifestyle is a more plant-based diet emphasizing fresh fruit and vegetables.” He says, “Regular exercise and some sort of meditation or yoga complete a balance between a healthy mind, body, and soul. At ICON Health, our approach to chronic care management—treating and managing diabetes, hypertension, lung disease, obesity, and cardiovascular disorders—is primarily through a healthy diet and other lifestyle changes.”
Though changing our habits toward healthier life choices is a great first step, the need for access to thoughtful and consistent medical care remains. Luckily for Chico, ICON Family Health Care is making that possible. Their new office is now open for both walk-ins and appointments. Rather than waiting six months to be seen, patients can expect to book appointments within the week of their call and, in most cases, be seen the same day for walk-ins. It’s a breath of fresh air for many who have experienced Butte County’s strain in primary care. Best of all, they accept any PPO health plan and Medicare.
“I currently see about 20 patients per day between walk-ins and appointments.” James said, “I know firsthand how difficult it is to be seen in our county, and we do everything we can to make sure everyone is seen quickly, thoroughly, and efficiently. We practice a thoughtful approach to medicine, and it’s nice to start somewhere from the ground up where we’re providing a real resource to the community by solving a problem and filling a need.”
Dr. Robinson continues, “We strive to have providers like James and our medical assistant Brandy Emswiler who embrace this approach to health management and provide the best medical standards of care in treating and managing these disorders. We are currently utilizing three of our exam rooms to manage the flow of visitors, and we have plenty of additional rooms and lobby space to expand into as we bring on other providers and continue to accept more patients. It’s encouraging to know the future of medical care in Butte County is better because of it.”
If you’re looking for a primary care provider in Butte County and would prefer to be seen sooner than later, visit ICON Family Health Care at 19 Ilahee Lane in Chico. You can schedule appointments by phone at (530) 746-0711 or visit them as a walk-in Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.
ICON x Burban kitchen
Dining out can be healthy and delicious if you know what to order. To help make your decision easier, ICON Family Health Care has teamed up with Burban Kitchen in Chico's Meriam Park to offer a menu of items that are as healthy as they are flavorful. With plenty of vegetarian and lean protein options available, no two visits need be alike. If you're looking for something else, Chef Christian is glad to help with modifications and subtitutions to bring menu items in line with your dietary needs. Visit Burban Kitchen at 1925 Market Place #100 in Chico and call (530) 592-3990 for reservations.
Salmon Scallopini Roasted Beet Salad
Seared Ahi
Pan Seared Chicken
Embrace Your Individuality
Located near Chico State University, PLUR Aura Boutique is more than a store—it’s a celebration of individuality and selfexpression. Specializing in lingerie, festival wear, and more, PLUR Aura redefines the shopping experience.
Founded by sisters Erika Itzel and Adilene, PLUR Aura Boutique is a family-owned, Latina- and woman-owned business rooted in the values of peace, love, unity, and respect—the inspiration behind PLUR.
Erika, a certified sexual health resource and former CNA, has dedicated her life to helping others. At PLUR Aura, she brings her expertise in empowerment and wellness to every customer, offering thoughtful
guidance on self-care, relationships, and boundaries. Adilene, a Chico State graduate with a degree in studio art and a minor in small business management, infuses the boutique with her creativity and entrepreneurial spirit. Together, they’ve created an inclusive, open-minded space where customers can explore their interests, ask questions, and feel celebrated.
Shopping at PLUR Aura Boutique is more than browsing—it’s an experience. From the moment you walk through the door, you’ll be welcomed with warmth and encouragement by a team dedicated to helping you find the perfect look. The mission is simple: to make you feel confident, valued, and empowered as you embrace your unique self.
“We understand that trying something new can feel intimidating, but you’re never alone at PLUR Aura.” Erika explains, “Whether you’re shopping for lingerie, festival wear, or accessories, we’re here to guide and support you every step of the way. With sizes ranging from XXS to 6X, we ensure everyone feels included. We proudly specialize in petite and queen sizes, proving that fashion is truly for everybody.”
“Our commitment to the Chico community runs deep.” Adilene continues, “From participating in local events like lunar markets and college sexuality fairs to collaborating with other businesses, we’re dedicated to fostering meaningful connections. PLUR Aura Boutique is more than a store—it’s a vibrant, supportive community.”
The duo plan to expand their offerings as the business grows with an expanded collection of toys and intimate wellness products. To ensure discretion, they will have these available for convenient and private shopping online.
“We believe that when you heal, your aura shines brighter.” Erika said, “We’re honored to be part of that journey. Whether you’re looking for bold new pieces, a confidence boost, or a safe space to explore, PLUR Aura Boutique is here for you.”
With monthly specials, sexuality coaching, seasonal cosplay costumes, and discounts for students and military members, there’s always something exciting waiting for you. Bouquets of flowers are available for Valentine's Day and any occasion where you want to let someone know how much they mean to you. They even carry HoneyPacks and chocolates for a libido boost.
Visit PLUR Aura and explore their vibrant selection, take advantage of exclusive deals, and connect with a community that celebrates you for who you are.
PLUR Aura is located at 641 Nord Avenue, Suite C in Chico and is open from 10am8pm Monday-Saturday and 10am-6pm on Sunday. You can reach them by phone at (530) 399-8006 and find them online at www.plurauraboutique.net or on Instagram @plurauraboutique. Embrace your individuality and ensure your journey is unforgettable at PLUR Aura.
Style Chemistry: How Clothing and color ignite romantic connection
As Valentine’s Day approaches, romance takes center stage—but for many, it’s also a moment to confront frustrations in love. For singles, the lack of interest or quality prospects can feel discouraging, while couples stuck in a rut may find themselves longing to reignite the spark.
Here’s the good news: Your style has the power to invite and ignite romantic connection.
With the right colors and techniques, you can attract higher-quality possibilities, stand out from the crowd, and even bring fresh energy to your relationship.
Style isn’t just about appearance; it shapes how others perceive and respond to you. In this article, I’m sharing actionable tips to boost your romantic potential, plus real-life makeovers of a local couple and a single woman whose transformations I had the privilege to guide.
Colors, in particular, carry psychological power. Red evokes passion and confidence, soft pinks signal romance and femininity, and vibrant hues project energy and warmth. Studies from the University of Rochester reveal that wearing red increases romantic attraction and can even influence behavior—such as men spending more on dates with women wearing red.
Quick Color Tips for Romance:
Red: Conveys romance and femininity (in soft, flowing styles) or passion, confidence, and power (in structured garments).
Light Pink: Suggests sweetness, femininity, and romance.
Vibrant Tones: Signal energy, warmth, and approachability.
Style Techniques for Romance
For Women:
Colors: Wear hues like red and pink for warmth and romance. Avoid wearing allblack, which can feel formal or cold.
Fabrics: Choose soft, touchable materials like silk, knits, or satin to invite closeness.
Silhouettes: Highlight your feminine shape with flattering styles. Skip baggy, masculine garments that hide your curves.
Hairstyles: Soft waves or loose curls create a romantic, approachable vibe. Avoid severe styles, like tight buns, which can seem untouchable.
For Men:
Fit: Ensure clothes are well-tailored and current—nothing too loose or ill-fitting.
Grooming: Stay well-groomed with a fresh, polished look.
Colors: Choose shades that complement your natural coloring.
The Science Behind Style Chemistry Research shows we form impressions within seconds of seeing someone—whether in person or in a photo—and appearance plays a key role. A polished, confident style raises desirability and attraction.
Dating App Pro-Tip:
First impressions on dating apps are fleeting. Incorporate these style tips into your profile photos to make every glance count.
Real-Life Transformations
Jeni & Tony: Reigniting Midlife Romance
Long-time married couple Jeni (47) and Tony (50) are embracing a new chapter in retirement, focusing on reconnecting through date nights and travel. We transformed their looks through a color and body shape analysis, personalized shopping, and grooming adjustments, styled specifically for their goals.
Jeni’s new look features:
Colors: A coral red blouse paired with tones that flatter her complexion.
Silhouette: A surplice top with diagonal lines to complement her curves and enhance her femininity.
Accessories: Feminine jewelry to add sparkle.
Hair & Makeup: Soft waves and natural makeup enhance her youthful vibrancy.
For Tony, well-fitted garments with contrast highlight his complexion, giving him a more polished, handsome look. “Seeing him in a new light was exciting,” Jeni shared.
Michaela: A Look Made
For Michaela, a single mom, we transformed her look using a silky red dress she already owned but hadn’t worn. With the right accessories, hair, and makeup, her romantic magnetism and allure were elevated, making her even more captivating for dates and dating profile photos.
Red Dress: Radiates femininity and romance.
These transformations highlight how style can elevate not just appearance, but self-perception and how others respond to you.
Your wardrobe is more than just clothing—it’s a tool for connection, confidence, and romance. As a style coach, I help you discover the colors, fabrics, and techniques that align with your unique beauty and personality.
Fabric: Soft, silky material adds sensuality.
Hair: Loose waves create a soft, feminine allure.
Accessories: Delicate, sparkling jewelry draws attention to her face.
“I feel excited, empowered and confident,” Michaela said.
Ready to spark romance or rekindle the magic? Try these tips—or partner with me to explore the colors and styles that showcase your best self. You never know what new connections or opportunities might come your way!
Written by Erin Mathis Styling, Creative Direction and Photography by Erin Mathis
Jeni & Tony enjoying a date night in their fresh new looks Jeni’s haircut by Stephanie Rethans
Hair by Hannah Wing-Owner of Wing Studios
for Romance
Italian Cottage
A favorite of locals and visitors alike, Italian Cottage has been serving up original recipes for breakfast, lunch, and dinner since 1965. Celebrating 60 years in business, and still family-owned and operated, they are so very thankful for their wonderful staff and loyal customers. Their recipes are made fresh daily—including the pizza dough, “valley famous” lasagna, sauces, dressings, delicious salads, and so much more. The cozy vibe inside perfectly complements their menu, too. Weekly specials offered include all-you-can-eat spaghetti every Monday from 4pm-close and quick lunch specials on weekdays from 11am-2pm. Breakfast is served 7:30am-11am on weekdays and 7:30am-noon on Saturdays. Check out their “party-to-go” option on their website for family-style pick-ups the whole family will love. Call for pick-up orders or order delivery through DoorDash. You’ll find there’s no shortage of nostalgia or convenient FREE parking at the Italian Cottage.
Beer Lobo
2234 Esplanade, Chico (530) 343-7000 Mon-Sat 7:30am-8pm
Upper Crust
Free drip coffee? You’ll find it at Upper Crust every Tuesday! Baker and coffee shop owner Jeff Plummer and his wife Shelby, a cake decorator, began looking for a place to raise their family and found it in Chico. As luck would have it, Upper Crust was looking for a baker and a cake decorator, so the two applied and were hired immediately. In 2018, they purchased the business from its founder, Lori Powers, and have been running the café ever since. Offering an ever-expanding menu of drinks and delicious eats, the Upper Crust is the perfect place to snag breakfast, lunch, dinner, dessert, or just a quick pick-me-up. Fresh baked goods, quiche, sandwiches, salads, and soups can be found on their rotating menu daily, with many more delicious offerings to come. And that free drip coffee on Tuesdays? Just bring in your Upper Crust mug! There’s plenty to love at Upper Crust. Stop in and give them a try!
UpperCrustBakeryAndCafe Uppercrustchico www.UpperCrustChico.com
Appropriately born in the home of Chico’s very first brewery, Beer Lobo is a beer lover’s paradise. The brainchild of beertender and longtime craft beer nerd Chris Gomez, the space is now home to all manner of local and imported craft beers. “I wanted to create a place that served and promoted lager beers without the fads and hype.” Chris says, “We’re staying away from major brand names and focusing on brewers who are good people and truly care about their product and its consumer.” Going into the bar business can be scary, as Chris points out, but he has plenty of support from his partners Chad, Alexis, and Stephanie. To top it off, he gets to spend his days pouring beer alongside close friend and fellow beertender Alec Tidwell. Great beer needs great food, and you’ll find it here too, courtesy of Kevin Klemm, owner of Southern Zen BBQ. Paired with its punk rock vibe, you can’t go wrong with a visit to Beer Lobo.
800 Broadway Street, Chico | (530) 592-3087
Wed-Thurs 3pm-10pm, Fri-Sat 12pm-12am, Sunday 12pm-6pm
130 Main Street (530) 895-3866
Mon-Sat 6:30am-7pm, Sun 6:30am-4pm
Italian Cottage ItalianCottageRestaurants www.TheItalianCottage.com
RAMBLE WEST
W. 8th Street, Chico (530) 630-7038
The neighborhood brewery, local hangout, and popular gathering place at the intersection of the Barber District, Downtown Chico, and College Town became an overnight hit. Half tasting room/half brewery, the combo has become a community hotspot. With a rotating schedule of food trucks and multiple gathering spaces, including a game and play area, it has become a well-known, family-friendly hang for townies.
GOLDEN BEAVER STILL HOUSE
2420 Park Avenue, Chico (530) 965-7281
A plume rises and continues to bubble from the glass containing their smoked old fashioned, and among the wood and gold accents, a perfect picture is painted that illustrates a love of craft spirits. Golden Beaver’s Still House embodies the barrel—from the tables to the full view of the stills that fill them behind the bar. Highlyawarded spirits meet signature cocktails in a warm and intimate setting. Visit them for live music, shop talk on distillation, or to try your new favorite cocktail.
ODYSSEY WINERY
Luxury, splendor, magnificence… regardless of which synonym you choose, Odyssey Winery is a far-from-distant escape where you can bask in a Napa-like setting without breaking the bank. Whether on their grounds or in their tasting room, there are numerous nooks and environments to gather closely among friends or as part of a larger party. From estate-grown grapes to their true Napa cabernet, there is more than enough to envelop your senses at Odyssey.
CHICO
FARMERS BREWING CO.
1950 Market Place, Chico (530) 399-7374
When you strike gold in the North State, you know it. Thankfully, with Farmers Brewing Restaurant and Taproom, one doesn't need to drive to Princeton to taste the brew that’s synonymous with the area code it’s produced in. With 46 taps to choose from; a comprehensive and delicious pub menu; and ample indoor and outdoor space, Farmers is an excellent place to try ingredients from local farms and, of course, the beers that have helped shape the local scene.
BURNT BARN DISTILLERY
195 Wayland Road, Paradise (530) 228-0941
Light and warmth live here. The juxtaposition of ruins visibly embraced outside and the unaged within makes Burnt Barn Distillery a treat to taste, tour, and explore. A state-of-the-art water treatment system connects spaciously placed equipment in a large, open distillery while a cozy and sophisticated tasting area welcomes light and celebrates The Ridge. Step outside and bask in the sunlight on their patio, allowing you to experience their growth one day at a time.
LIVE VINE VINEYARD & WINERY
743 Luds Way, Oroville (530) 566-4259
This new urban winery and tasting room is the best-kept secret hidden in the middle of everywhere. Between Highways 99 and 70, near the Oroville Airport, Live Vine creates much more than wine. Their delicious hard root beer, agave lime seltzer, ciders, meads, and wines can be enjoyed overlooking The Afterbay and Butte County’s signature agricultural vistas. Sleek, modern, and spacious, this is an excellent destination for those looking for the delightfully unusual.
OROVILLE
CHICO
PARADISE
Tucked away at the end of Park Avenue in Chico is one of the most unique experiences in town—Golden Beaver Distillery Stillhouse. A tasting room featuring a full-service craft cocktail bar, The Stillhouse offers up delightful libations made from Golden Beaver’s award-winning spirits: Bībā Soju, Beaver Likker Moonshine, High Lakes Vodka, Feather River Gin, Pacific Flyway Whiskey, Pacific Flyway Bourbon, Honeyrun Honey Flavored Whiskey, and Richardson Springs Grappa. Signature drinks like the smoked old fashioned, lavender lemon drop, espresso martini, and Feather River splash are served by mixologists Bella and Kira, and always with a friendly smile. They also have an assortment of mocktails for non-drinkers and Sierra Nevada on tap for those who prefer beer. New food offerings by Chef Tony of Inchy Winchy guarantee an eclectic menu of tasty morsels to pair with your drink order, and a new stage provides a venue for live music on Friday nights. Visit them online to see what’s in store for you any given week!
GoldenBeaverDistillery
GoldenBeaverDistillery
www.GoldenBeaverDistillery.com
The Rawbar Restaurant & Sushi
A favorite of local foodies, the Rawbar has been delighting customers with sushi and Asian-fusion creations since 2001. Known for its commitment to quality and service, the restaurant completed a long-awaited remodel in 2024, considerably growing its infrastructure to meet demand. It reopened with a larger kitchen, expanded dining room, full bar, and more elaborate food and drink menus to match. Owner Darren Chadderdon invited some of Chico’s most talented mixologists to weigh in, helping craft their new cocktail menu alongside Bar Manager Jamison Sydnor, resulting in one of the more thoughtful mixology offerings in town. Not to be outdone, Head Sushi Chef Matt Janeway and Head Chef Chloe Criez pulled out all the stops, developing the restaurant’s newest food offerings, including culinary-forward items like dry-aged fish and seasonal ingredients you’re sure to love. Whether dining in, stopping by for a drink, or participating in one of their sushi classes, you’ll find something for everyone at The Rawbar.
TheRawbar
TheRawbar_Chico www.RawBarChico.com
346 Broadway Street, Chico | (530) 897-0626
Monday 11:30am-8pm, Thursday-Friday 11:30am-9pm Saturday 12pm-9pm, Sunday 4-8:30pm
2420 Park Avenue, Chico (530) 965-7281 Thurs-Fri 4-10pm, Sat-Sun 2-10pm
Rione Italian Restaurant
In 2023, the owners of Red Tavern, the husband and wife team of Rich and Chris Garcia, opened their third restaurant, Rione, modeled from a few of their favorite restaurants in the neighborhood of Trastevere, Rome. Their food begins with traditionally-prepared items you would find in the Emerald City then explores other areas of Italy. They team up with their very talented head chef to create rotating signature dishes and import many items from Italy, as quality is their top priority. Wonderful Italian wines, as well as many artisanal-style cocktail apertivos complement their food offerings. When they aren’t working, they love to travel; in doing so, they bring back many ideas for both Rione and Red Tavern. Join them either in the dining room, bar, or on their spacious patio, but you might want to call for reservations.
Rione Italian Restaurant www.RioneInChico.com
1990 Belgium Ave, Chico (530) 487-7021
Mon-Sat 4:30-9pm, Sun 4:30-8:30pm
JOHNNY'S TACOS
1101 Mangrove Avenue, Chico (530) 828-5031
In the age of soft street tacos, the crunchy, hard-shelled taco is hard to come by. However, we’ve repeatedly found that these flaky masterpieces make visiting a taco truck so much more desirable. Beyond the abundant meat, these fried cheese shell tacos boast lettuce, tomato, cheese, sour cream, and salsa—the perfect combination of taco ingredients. Served with lime and radish slices, you’ll find two tacos are never enough.
TOM TOM'S ISLAND STYLE
115 W. 11th Ave, Chico (530) 354-9037
It’s more than likely that Tom Tom’s Island Style needs no introduction, considering the rave reviews they garner daily across social media. Chef Tom delivers another hit with the Spicy Chico Bowl. Tempura shrimp spears anchor crab meat over perfectly steamed white sushi rice and meticulously sliced avocado before being showered with spicy mayo, unagi sauce, and sriracha. Tom’s love for the craft never disappoints, whether it is to-go sushi, hibachi, or just something out of the ordinary.
CHICO
CHICOBI'S
849 W. 8th Street, Chico (530) 828-3161
Creating a menu that is as fusion as it is seasonal, Chef Obi is not to be overlooked. From Asian to Argentinian, you’re sure to be wowed by an ever-changing menu. One recurring dish is his parmesan truffle shrimp cakes over nori sesame sushi rice, served with a pickled ginger and avocado salad topped with lemon thyme aioli. If that combination of flavors doesn’t get you excited, we don’t know what will.
BAKER ST. BISTRO
14458 Skyway, Magalia (530) 624-0253
Jennah and Mark Baker of the Baker St. Bistro food truck bring bayou delights to The Ridge in the most unsuspecting of vehicles. With a menu full of mouthwatering options inspired by Jennah’s mother’s family cooking, the chicken and andouille sausage Jambalaya—a savory staple of the south—had us head over heels. Fluffy, seasoned rice with red bell peppers, onions, and okra shine in this Cajun feast. Pro-tip: ask to add shrimp to take this dish to the next level. As colorful and vibrant as a New Orleans festival, their flavors will break the monotony of your usual lunch routine.
CHICO
Magalia
DINNER AND A SHOW
On the eastern outskirts of Downtown Chico, two blocks from the central square, is the locally owned and operated, singlescreen Pageant Theatre. Each morning, as I leave home, I pass by the building— off-white with rich red accentuations, on the intersection of E. 6th and Flume. A lone word, “PAGEANT,” in elegant block lettering, sits above the crimson door on the corner. Movie posters, showcased outside the theatre, advertise the films screened throughout the week. These films are often niche or obscure—but never uninteresting— always compelling, engaging, and intriguing.
As an independent theater, The Pageant is a source of positivity and creativity for the local community, hosting not only arthouse
films but select mainstream cinema, as well as live music, poetry, and literature performances. Novel ideas and aesthetics are shared throughout Chico by the small hall, sparking fresh influences and new schools of thought. The Pageant will often take advantage of cultural touchstones throughout the year, aptly presenting movies that have, at their present moment, impacted the zeitgeist of film. Classic cinema regularly cycles through as well. I fondly remember seeing Stanley Kubrick’s “The Shining” one October many years ago. The varied roster of events promises evenings of fun and pleasant diversion any time of the year, whether you’re attending alone or joining a group of friends.
The history of the theatre began in 1974 when documentary filmmaker Albert Mitchell envisioned creating a movie theater to show films of more substance than were available locally. The building had previously hosted a paint store, and through the hard work of Mitchell and his family, they crafted “risers, a projection booth, new doors, and more.” When complete, Mitchell named it The Pageant. In 1980, the theatre changed ownership and was continued by Tim Guista and Roger Montalbano. For the first six months, they hosted mainstream movies before pivoting to screening art and foreign films, previously unavailable in Chico, and transitioning the Pageant into the theater we see today.
While Cinemark’s Tinseltown, situated in the North Valley Plaza, is a multiplex boasting 14 screens and a cutting-edge XD theater, it is subject to modern cinema's quickly changing and uncertain state. Budgets for blockbusters have ballooned into the hundreds of millions of dollars throughout recent years while often delivering a tedious, unentertaining, and lackluster product. Remakes, sequels, and bland corporate IPs abound. With the ease of access offered by media streaming services, convincing audiences to leave their homes and purchase a movie ticket is more challenging than ever. However, there are exceptions, and it is evident that film enthusiasts still want to engage in a theater experience for quality and entertaining films.
The Pageant Theatre offers a unique alternative to the film scene's issues. They provide no bloated media juggernauts desperate to break even at the box office. Every film screened at the Pageant is carefully curated to connect with the local community. Casual movie fans and cinephiles will be satisfied by the slate of movies cycling through each weekend. Films you could never catch at Cinemark sell out the theatre multiple nights, such as the Velvet Underground documentary screened in 2021. Authenticity is paramount, and the theatre works to bring “people together to meet and connect” through their “neighborhood arthouse theater experience.” After watching a film, I’ve stood on the sidewalk many times, discussing ideas and themes with complete strangers. Sites like these are endangered, with independent theaters struggling to face the same obstacles as their larger competitors. The Pageant, however, has faithfully served the Chico community since 1980 and shows no sign of slowing down. When looking to replace their projector and “go digital, or go dark” in 2018, the theatre raised $51,000 quickly from community support, allowing the Pageant to continue to thrive to this day.
There is an intimacy to the Pageant. Unlike in larger theaters, the front row hosts the best seats in the house—though every section offers clear and unobstructed views—with room for an audience of 100. The theatre provides a great communal feeling, and every aspect of the space has charm—from the Broadway curtains to the Hollywood-themed murals and the comfortable purple seats. Admission is less
expensive than traditional chain theaters, at $8.50, compared to Tinseltown’s $10-$12. It is worth noting that the theatre accepts only cash. After buying your ticket, you receive a red “ADMIT ONE” stub—simple and timeless. The theatre is wheelchair accessible and offers closed captioning, audio description, and assisted listening systems upon inquiry for many films. No movie night can be complete without the treat of food and drink, and the Pageant offers “organic popcorn, with vegan butter and nutritional yeast, local beer, natural soda, kombucha, premium candy, and other snacks.”
In terms of promotion and advertisement, you may have to seek out the Pageant Theatre yourself. Regarding their screenings, they state, “NO ADS - FILMS BEGIN AT POSTED SHOWTIMES.” Movie posters displayed on the outside wall can catch your attention if you happen to be walking by during the week. Otherwise, find their film schedule at PageantChico.com, where they present their current slate and films coming soon to the theatre. You can also find them on Instagram @pageantchico, although they seem a bit allergic to social media, as they direct you towards the page from their website “if that’s your thing.” However, the power of word of mouth and the extreme dedication and loyalty of the audience of the Pageant leaves them with little need for overblown announcements. Those who know, know, and those who will show, will show.
So, if you’re in Chico and looking for an evening of entertainment, consider the Pageant Theatre at 351 E. 6th Street. It’s the perfect place to find a picture you may never have expected. So often, we don’t know what we want or what we need until it is handed to us. The Pageant consistently gives Chico what it needs. Whether you attend alone, with a friend, or are taking someone special out for dinner and a film, the Pageant delivers an experience that
Wine Time
Home to delicious fresh and seasonal dishes by Chef Lisa Sereda, Wine Time has now been a full-service restaurant for over a decade. In addition to their extensive wine list, Wine Time offers craft cocktails from their full bar. The winter menu features various plates of housemade pasta, baked Brie, and hearty meat dishes like their meatballs Wellington and beef bourguignon. A rotation of soup specials—like beef barley, Hungarian mushroom, and roasted apple butternut squash— can be found daily alongside a perfectly executed French onion. Served with Camina Bakery bread, there are few things we'd prefer more in the winter. Chef Lisa always has delicious vegan and gluten-free options on the menu as well, like her fresh spring roll with pistachio dipping sauce. Stop by and experience this gem for yourself.
WineTimeChico www.WineTimeChico.com
Strong Water Craft Cocktail Lounge
26 Lost Dutchman Dr, Chico (530) 899-9250 Tues-Thurs 4-9pm | Fri-Sat 4-10pm
One of Chico’s hidden gems, Strong Water Craft Cocktail Lounge sits nestled off the Esplanade across from the restaurant Wine Time and next door to The Lost Dutchman Taproom. After an extensive reimagining and remodel by Alec Binyon in 2024, he and co-owner Jasmine James recently reopened the lounge with a brand new patio, additional seating, a musical stage, and so much more. “I wanted to broaden its appeal.” Alec says, “As someone who isn’t a big drinker, I felt there was a need for something more in town.” To complement a delicious seasonal cocktail menu, Alec added functional herbal mocktails, an espresso machine, and wildcrafted ingredients you won’t find anywhere else—like wild-gathered fir syrup. Strong Water is now open seven days per week. Cigar Sundays on the patio and a Trapper’s Toddy add an additional level of coziness to Strongwater’s vibe; the whiskey specials don’t hurt either. Drop in and see how the staff of Strong Water is transforming nature’s gifts into a gift for Chico.
StrongWaterChico
StrongWaterChico www.StrongWaterChico.com
27 Lost Dutchman Drive (530) 487-8557 Sun-Thurs 3pm-11pm, Fri-Sat 3pm-12am
Search Burnt Barn Distilling Co.
Burnt Barn Distilling Co.
You may remember Burnt Barn Distilling Co. from our July 2024 cover story in the Casks and Crafts issue. Since then, quite a bit has changed for owners Cliff Jacobson and Melissa Schuster. The distillery is now full steam ahead on its vodka, gin, and whiskey spirits—with the first two ready for visitors and the third not far behind at its beautiful tasting room on Wayland Road in Paradise. Cliff and Melissa have a new head distiller from Long Beach, Massimiliano Stecca, and a distributor has been selected to bring their spirits to carefully selected craft cocktail bars both near and far. The flavors found in each spirit are captivating, and the attention to detail is equally impressive. From their sustainable water-capturing system to their fire safety program, sustainability is paramount at Burnt Barn. Stop by for a tasting tour and prepare to be enchanted by the warmth of Burnt Barn Distilling Co. on The Ridge.
Testimonial
NPH
I am grateful to work at Nurses and Professional Healthcare. Throughout my 10 years at NPH, I’ve had the opportunity to work at a variety of facilities across the North State and meet a diverse group of healthcare professionals. At NPH, I have the ability to create my schedule which allows me time off when I want it. I enjoy being able to spend quality time with my wife and three kids. NPH is always willing to work with me and I am blessed to be a part of this growing company.
Emigdio Gamez, CNA
The Art of Eating
What heightens the color of a stew, enhances the taste of tea, and stimulates your sense of touch without getting your fingers sticky? The answer is one-of-akind ceramics. It’s a pleasure to greet the day by drinking tea from a porcelain cup by local ceramist Chris Yates. The cup is beautiful to look at, satisfying to grasp, and brings tangy smells right up to your nose as you sip.
Yates says, “Most of the art people own stays on their walls, but they can cradle a cup in their hands. I aim to make items for daily use that I hope will enhance the practical and aesthetic aspects of people’s lives.”
Before Yates fell in love with porcelain, he taught special education and served in the Peace Corps. In 1974, he needed
: Chris Yates in his studio. Below: His Porcelain Cup, Celadon Glaze Middle: Margaret Allen Below: Her 'Neo-Rococo' porcelain serving plate Right: Tom Knight. Below: His Bowl with Red Copper and other glazes
to add units to his teaching credential, so he enrolled in a beginning ceramic class at Chico State thinking it would be “easy and fun.” That was true for the beginning class, but when Yates went on to take Jack Windsor’s glaze calculation class, it proved to be the most difficult and enthralling class he had ever experienced.
For years, Yates honed his ceramic skills. In 1978, after an apprenticeship with Prickwillow Pottery in Ely, England, he joined a Chico pottery co-op, Northern Star Fire Works, that was housed in an old barn at the south end of Normal Street. Yates recalls, “We had the best equipment in Chico; it even attracted visiting ceramicists. Jack Windsor often rode his bike to visit and helped us build our salt kiln.”
Yates’s ceramics combine his admiration for ancient Chinese and Korean porcelains with his personal inventiveness. His black-glazed bowls add mystery to ordinary fruit and make them glow. His teapots and cups bind people together as they sip tea and share experiences. For example, Yates created a tea set for his twelve-year-old granddaughter and says, “Years from now, when she’s having tea with a friend, she can talk about how her Grandpa made this set.”
Tom Knight also studied with Windsor at CSUC and was part of the Northern Star Fire Works Co-op. He and Yates were its last members when it closed in 2004. Knight recalls, “We hosted poetry readings, life drawing sessions, and clay workshops. Our big annual event was the
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Holiday Sale, which was always the first weekend in December. We had some real talent over the years and great parties, too!”
He continues, “After more than thirty years on the potter’s wheel, I’m still excited at each opening of the kiln to see what high temperature has done to the glazes.” Imagine you are eating pea soup from a bowl by Knight and watching vivid bursts of copper red appear as the level of the soup drops—what an incentive to clean your plate.
Ceramist Margaret Allen also has fond memories of the Northern Star Co-op. “I rented studio space there in 1988 when I first came to Chico to teach at CSUC. I needed a place to work and was able to produce pieces for a show at Mount Saint Mary’s College in Los Angeles that semester. There was the best energy at Northern Star, with kilns firing all the time. I was honored to work alongside a community of excellent and diverse professionals like Tom Knight, Doug Leiker, and John Staple.”
Allen says, “When I taught ceramics. I’d advise students not to produce a generic bowl but to first think about what would be eaten from it.” The vessels you eat and drink from affect your sense of taste—coffee in a Styrofoam cup tastes different than coffee in a stoneware mug. A good portion of an enjoyable meal is experienced through your eyes. If you were to transfer cookies from Allen’s hand-built ‘neo-rococo’ serving plate into a mass-produced one, you’d be demoting what had been celebratory into a snack.
Original ceramics abound in Chico galleries—as an example, Vagabond Rose carries pieces by Margaret Allen. While Tom Knight is currently selling in the Bay area, Chris Yates welcomes visitors to his Cohasset studio and participates in Chico Art Center’s Open Studios. You'll also find ceramists at the Chico Art Festival on Mother’s Day weekend in May.
Mass-produced tableware may meet daily needs effectively, but for a serene start of the day, or to adorn a party table, or to add mirth to a sideboard, you can’t beat ceramics that bear their makers’ mark and remind us that we, too, are one-of-a-kind.
Baugher Ranch Organics: Almond Excellence
Founded by Chris and Marcie Baugher, Baugher Ranch Organics (or BRO, as we affectionately call them for short) has provided high-quality organic almonds for the past 40 years. Now owned by sisters Nisha and Rania, what started as a small operation has grown immensely into a second-generation family farm and trusted provider for businesses of all sizes. By combining the best in traditional methods and modern technology, along with meticulous attention to detail, Baugher Ranch Organics has created a reputation for consistently meeting or exceeding the highest quality standards.
This coming harvest year, they will process millions of pounds of almonds for their partners, delivering whole nuts and all types of manufactured almonds. Sustainability is a core value at Baugher Ranch Organics, and they believe strongly in ethical land stewardship and longterm viability. Their focus on eco-friendly farming practices, water conservation, and reduction of their carbon footprint make their almonds more than just a delicious and healthy choice—they’re one you can feel good about ethically as well.
Back in 1983, when Baugher Farms decided to go organic, the decision
wasn’t well-received by other local ranchers. “When my parents converted 135 acres of conventional almonds into organic, they were shunned by my father’s family and neighbors,” said Nisha Baugher-Carrow. “But they stuck to their guns. They had three children to raise. They put their best foot forward and started processing and farming organic almonds.” Four decades later, Baugher Ranch Organics has gone from a small family operation to a hustling and bustling business.
Heading up this successful organization on the administrative end are Chief Executive Officer Nisha Baugher-Carrow, President Rania Baugher-Heany, Vice President Ron Lauthrup, Director of Operations Matt Ceccato, and Director of Business Development Amy Gates. The expansion of the staff has gone right along with the business. Long gone are the days when Chris would load up the Chevy pickup and deliver 25-pound cases of almonds up and down the West Coast while Marcie would work at the warehouse processing, packaging, and taking care of the accounting aspects of the ranch.
While still processing some ‘regular’
almonds, the organic side of the business took off and started expanding. “We were growing the business, and people started seeing the trucks coming in and out of the warehouse," said Nisha. “The business started expanding, and there was a need for more organic almonds. That’s when we started purchasing from other organic almond growers. We built a strong reputation in the organic almond industry.”
Baugher Ranch Organics accounts for about 30% of California’s organic almonds. They process Nonpareil, independence, Carmel Type, and a selection of California almonds. These provide a variety of tastes, textures, and appearances. At BRO, you can find whatever almond best suits your use and flavors suitable for a wide range of applications.
It used to be that the nuts were handharvested and processed, but today’s technology has made processing considerably easier. On the processing end of operations, we have Plant Controller Jeff Fox, Head of Human Resources Monica Rodriguez, Quality Manager Stephanie Ochoa, Shipping and Receiving Manager Lugo Moreno,
Production Manager Patrick Walker, and Maintenance Supervisor Justin Coats. It takes a village, and these individuals ensure the processing end runs smoothly, including the latest technology. The 30,000-square-foot facility contains equipment designed for peak efficiency on all levels. “We utilize automation and technology to improve efficiency, consistency, and quality,” said BaugherCarrow.
BRO’s commitment to sustainable practices is a role model for other almond processors. Organic farming's central tenets are eliminating pesticide use, minimizing water use, and preserving soil health. By curbing synthetic pesticides and fertilizers, you mitigate chemical runoff, safeguard water quality, and protect the ecosystem. Diverse crop rotation maintains ecological balance while helping to provide habitats for beneficial organisms.
Sustainable agriculture also promotes small-scale farming, farmer cooperatives, and direct-to-consumer markets. Resilient practices such as conservation tillage, agroecology, and cultivating droughtresistant crop varieties help farmers adapt to ever-changing climate challenges.
Organic agriculture helps mitigate efforts by reducing greenhouse gas emissions and enhancing carbon sequestration. Solar energy is another positive aspect of BRO’s production. The company is committed to sustainability in every part of its operation. It has invested in solar technology, and its panels generate enough clean energy to offset over 50% of its energy use.
This power helps provide energy for the latest automated sorting technologies, which use cameras and laser monitoring. The fully-integrated packing line ensures precision weight control, vacuum-sealed atmospheric case capability, and custom label printing. On-site cold storage amounts to 28,000 square feet at less than 40°F. These are just some of the attributes of their incredible processing facility.
As for the future, Baugher Organic Farms keeps expanding by bringing in new growers and implementing the latest technologies to continue their commitment to sustainability. If you want to know more about Baugher Ranch Organics, check them out online at baugherranch.com. We know you’ll be as impressed as we are.
Almond Granola Bars
Sweet, crunchy, and packed with goodness, granola bars were a staple of our childhood and continue to be a favorite to this day. This easy-to-pack, goes-anywhere snack is delicious regardless of season and as easy to make as it is to eat.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups oats
- 1 1/2 cups chopped almonds
- 1/3 cup rice krispie or similar cereal
- 1/3 cup oat flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1 cup creamy store-bought almond butter
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
Directions
1. Line a pan of your choice with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, combine the oats, chopped almonds, rice krispies, cinnamon, salt, oat flour, and salt.
3. In a small bowl, mix together the honey, almond butter, and vanilla until combined.
4. Combine the wet and dry ingredients in the large bowl. Add additional oats if the mixture seems too goopy and not firm enough.
5. Pour the mixture into the pan and spread through the pan evenly. Press it down and pack the mixture tight as this will be how the bars hold together. Level it once more.
6. Cover the pan and place in the fridge overnight.
7. Remove the large, pressed granola mixture from the pan and slice with a very sharp knife. Wrap each bar individually and keep in the fridge to eat as wanted.
Capering Around
Imagine you’re eight years old and capering around Caper Acres in Bidwell Park, having crossed the magical bridge into the fairy tale wonderland. You seek out Humpty Dumpty, explore the “ruins” of the old fort, and finally climb up into the Crooked House. This is what 17-year-old Madison Samora did, and today, she finds herself involved in a project to not only accentuate Caper Acres but fundraise as well.
Madison is enrolled in Pleasant Valley High School’s Graphic Arts II class taught by Lauren Green. Madison and several other students chose a fairy tale represented in the playground and created designs that the Chico High welding/metal shop class will fabricate. Madison chose the Crooked House and made the design you see on this page. The unique cat and mouse motif adds an extra touch of creativity.
The project is sponsored by the Chico
Sunrise Rotary Club, which has secured a $30,000 vocational grant to enhance Caper Acres. Sunrise Rotary President Aaron Souza said, “While upgrades are being made to Caper Acres, the real focus is on the kids and their designs. They are helping Caper Acres look better, and the end result will be auctioning off each piece to raise money for further funding.”
Madison is very excited to be a part of this plan. “At first, this was another assignment, but the project won over my heart, and I became very committed.” She added, “I’m driven to do my very best because this is not just another project. This will last for years to come.” She credits her teacher, Lauren Green, as a motivating and encouraging force. Green said, “Madison has something innate, not teachable. She has an excellent eye for design. It’s incredible.”
Madison also credits her parents,
Jacob Kremeliff and Lauren Samora, for supporting her during the process. “They’ve always instilled in me a positive attitude and a desire to do my best.”
Along with her artistic focus, Madison also enjoys golf and reading. She is currently enrolled in A.P. Literature at P.V., and she enjoys the challenging but diverse selections they get to read (like The Metamorphosis by Franz Kafka).
She plans on attending Chico State as a student with an undeclared major. “I’m not sure what I want to do with my education yet,” she said, “but I want to leave my options open.”
From a small child who was always picking up a pencil and drawing to a high school senior immersed in computer design and art, Madison has seen art as a significant focus of her life. She has enjoyed learning Adobe Photoshop and the requirements of Graphic Arts Design I and II at PV. “I may end up going in that direction eventually,” she said, “but we will see.”
We look forward to seeing Madison’s design and those of the other students. They will be up for viewing at Caper Acres and the auction that will soon take place. Stay tuned for more on the Rotary Sunrise project at Caper Acres in our next issue.
WRITTEN BY TIM MILHORN
bring us home
Butte County has an inordinately high number of animals in need of adoption due to a number of factors including wildfires, floods, and irresponsible breeding. Please consider adoption as an option for increasing the love in your own household. These soon-to-be pets can be adopted by calling the Chico Animal Shelter at (530) 894-5630. You can also visit their website at www.chicoanimalshelter.org
