Local HR professional, Shelby Chase of HRIQ, instructs readers on how to connect while working from home

COVID Related Workplace Lawsuits

“Is your workplace providing you with proper PPE?”

“Has someone you love been infected or died from COVID after workplace exposure?”

“Has your employer compensated you for work from home expenses while forcing you to work remote?”

As if COVID hadn’t impacted small businesses enough to begin with, employers are now the target of lawsuit ads all over the internet. Remote workers are being bombarded with, “you may be entitled to legal compensation” marketing everywhere they click, and congress has yet to pass any liability protection against COVID related lawsuits.

The majority of small business owners are good people just trying to keep up with the never ending employment law updates. They don’t intentionally violate labor laws, they reward dedicated employees, and they do the best they can given the current circumstances. COVID has caused a lot of positions to transition to remote working, and that means less contact between managers and their employees. People tend to forget what is not right in front of them, so burnout overrides their ability to remember they are working for honest and ethical people who are making do with something completely out of their control. In addition to the lack of face-toface interaction, employees are bombarded with information about their “rights”, and although everyone should be educated on their legal entitlements, the companies pushing these advertisements out do not have the employees’ best intention in mind.

There is a huge difference between an employer intentionally taking advantage of their employees and an employer not being aware of the legal complexities COVID has caused in the business industry. Chico is uniquely full of incredible small business owners, and HRiQ is lucky to be able to say that nearly all of them make the necessary changes when given the information. We understand how difficult it is to stay up-todate with workers compensation laws, wage and hour issues, fluctuating employee head counts, and discrimination protections, on top of just trying to keep your business afloat. Unfortunately, COVID related lawsuits are not as forgiving, and it is critical that small business owners do as much as they can to protect themselves from liability. The law doesn’t differentiate between negligent employers and employers who understandably cannot keep up-to-date with capricious employment practices the pandemic has caused.

Know what you know, what you don’t know, and who knows what you don’t know.

Shelby Chase is an HR professional. Her company, HRiQ has been helping companies in Butte County and beyond remain compliant with changing laws for years. If you could use help with HR or updating your company operations, reach out to her by calling (530) 680-4747 or emailing shelby@upyourhriq.com

Why Eye?

You can tell a lot about someone by their eyes, whether they are smiling, laughing, crying, or just looking. What we notice as we age is the thinning skin, the lines, the dark circles, and puffiness. A lot of people use their daily moisturizer around their eyes, but is that always the best choice?

Eye creams are specifically formulated to improve this problem area without burning the eyes, which regular moisturizers are often known to do. This skin is thinner, more delicate, and very sensitive. Sometimes, small vessels and capillaries can show through, making the eye area appear darker.

Fluids can accumulate and cause puffiness, or "bags". Ingredients commonly used in eye creams are caffeine, niacinamide, hyaluronic acid, and vitamin E. These help with microcirculation, dehydration, and to firm and strengthen this fragile skin. Some eye creams also contain optical diffusers to reflect light, making the eyes look brighter and hide dark circles. Of course, getting enough sleep and drinking lots of water are helpful, but a targeted eye cream can go a long way toward keeping the eye area smoother, brighter, and firmer.

It is important to understand there are a lot of specific eye creams on the market, so check the ingredients and find out what conditions they address. The average price for an eye cream that has the most benefits will be $80 to $120, so ask your skin care specialist to recommend one for your needs and skin type. Why your eyes? Because sometimes you just have to treat your eyes to a makeover!

DERM BAR MED-SPA 85 Declaration Dr. Suite 100 Chico, CA 95973 530.342.2672

Surefire and Budget Friendly Ways to Update your Kitchen

As a homeowner, when you hear the words “update” and “kitchen,” the first response is to panic. You want to remodel your outdated kitchen, but don’t want to empty the piggy bank. The kitchen is the heart of the home, where your family gathers daily. And, now that families are home more than ever, outdated kitchens are being used for schooling, work, meetings, and meals.

First and foremost, replace the hardware. Most homeowners can do this with a trip to the hardware store and a screwdriver. New handles and knobs give your cabinets a complete new look with just a little investment of time and money. Think of your hardware as the accessories to the cabinet. There are so many options to consider such as color, style, and finishes. Like most accessories, this is something you can change often if you like. If you want to have a custom look, search online and discover some varied and unique hardware.

Second, replace the fixtures. A sleek new faucet is eye candy for your sink and can also be installed without breaking the bank. New plumbing fixtures are an amazing combination of function and style. New light fixtures are considered another accessory, one that can completely transform the look of a kitchen. From a simple fixture replacement to removal of that dreaded lightbox that screams 1970, light fixtures can refresh the look of your entire kitchen. Think outside the box and look for specialized light fixtures. The increased value to your home stems mainly from making the entire look more customized.

Finally, for a little more money, replace your counters and backsplash. There are real options to keep the cost of counters and backsplash down, so seek out advice on this one. A good rule is to select one ”heavy” design element. For example, if you want a busy granite counter, the backsplash tile should be far less busy. As an alternative, you can always keep the counter simple and go wild with the backsplash. A new backsplash can change your kitchen’s personality, so have fun with it. In light of all this, one strong suggestion—if you have tile counters, replace them immediately. This one piece of advice might be moved to number one on the priority list, as nothing dates a kitchen more than fat grout lines on your counter.

There are countless other ways that can be found online or by asking the advice of a local expert. The point is you don’t need to wait to have a stash of cash before taking steps to improve your kitchen. The question is, what will you do first?

Designer and Project Manager, Debbie Milding of KP Design and Construction. You can contact KP Design directly at (530) 828-2769

There’s something about

Sherry LandiS

“Sherry Landis is by far the best real estate agent in Chico. She is professional, positive, and has incredible follow through. She helped us "Sherry is such a great ally to have in the Chico market, her networking and persistence make her one of the most well positioned agents in navigate our way through the sale of two homes and the purchase of town to find the right buyers. Every one in my family uses her as an another—all at the same time! She never missed a beat. She made sure we agent and for good reason, time after time she has delivered excellent understood the process, and stayed in constant contact with us. Even after all results." three homes closed, she continued to call, email, and text just to make sure -Sam Adams, Chico everything was going as planned. We could not have done it without her.”

— Doug anD CoLEttE RobERtS

(530) 514-4855 landis4sale25@gmail.com | landis4sale@aol.com | www.SherryLandis.com

This beautifully European Flair custom built home by Michael Galli is an Estate sitting on 40 Acres!!!! Open floor plan and a grand kitchen open to family room. The upscaled appliances with granite counters, eating bar are un-paralled in architectural tastes and quality. The master suite is just that!!! Feeling like you’re on a spa-weekend, but yet you are at HOME in this cozy, inviting area that’s got your steam shower, soaking tub, his/her walk in closet, separate fireplace, natural lighting and separate from the rest of the bedrooms/baths. Views from the balcony to watch the spectacular sunsets are always fun, as is exploring the grounds and seeing nature! Bed: 5.0 Bath: 5.0 SqFt: 5,853 Price: $1,377,000

PENDING PENDING

Aspen Glen beauty. Tiled counters in the kitchen, large eating bar, Darling Avenues Charmer!!! Granite counters, stainless steel appliances, vaulted ceilings with ceiling fans and indoor laundry. Nicely fenced yard indoor laundry, city services, detached 1 car garage and one the biggest with dog run, covered patio with slider off Master Bedroom. Attached 2 most beautiful oak trees I ve ever seen in Chico. I love this big front car garage, nice quiet street with little traffic. A pleasure to see. porch with fenced in yard. Close to biking paths, schools, shopping and

This was the model home and only one owner! There have been many A terrific Michael Galli floor plan updated and remodeled from head to downtown. Bed: 2.0 Bath: 1.0 Price: $320,000Bed: 3.0 Bath: 2.0 SqFt: 1,186 Price: $349,900 upgrades including travertine tiles, upgraded carpets, granite, oversized toe about a year ago. Stainless steel appliances, granite counters, plush lot, built in desk in media room, special color paint throughout, draperies, carpets, decorator lighting, exterior and interior painting, lush park like yard, landscaped beautifully with slate water fall, flowers galore and redwood sparkling in ground gunite pool, newer 10x10 outdoor shed, wood stove, trees. RV Access on both sides of the house and two master suites make shows truly like a model home. Open floor plan with so many upgrades! this home a must see! Bed: 4.0 Bath: 4.0 SqFt: 3,166 Price: $429,000 Bed: 4.0 Bath: 3.0 SqFt: 3,675 Price: $665,000

Yikes! This country estate is on nearly 2 acres! The master suite features his & hers bathrooms, but meet in the middle with a huge shower! The kitchen is truly a Chef's delight and has top of the line appliances. The 6 burner stove came from Italy and there are 2 sinks smaking entertaining an absolute breeze!!!! Large granite eating bar and a cozy stone fireplace with insert that gives off that radiant heat! There are garages for all of your toys, and this home comes complete with every creature comfort one could imagine! Bed: 5.0 Bath: 3.0 SqFt: 3,367 Price: $1,100,000

My homes are selling fast! Call if I can

Contact me today to tour any

#1 Top Producer, 2019!help by listing your home today!of the properties above! (530) 514-4855

landis4sale25@gmail.com

CA-DRE lic# 01084946

"I have worked with Effie for many years, buying and selling properties. Effie is amazing. She is knowledgeable, responsive, a great negotiator, supportive through emotional steps in buying and selling, and offers great follow through on each step along the way to closing the deal. I would highly recommend Effie to anyone wishing to buy or sell a property. She works extremely hard to provide the best deal and experience for each client." -Kathy Hayes, Chico

The lake, park and Canyon Oaks Golf Course are a stone's throw from this stunning home!! Here, you will be greeted by walls of windows, generously proportioned rooms, plus an open-concept floor-plan filled with light and airy rooms that convey an aura of happiness. Right after adding numerous upgrades, the sellers have decided to jet to a far off place and leave this gorgeous home to be enjoyed by a new owner. Recent upgrades include: a brand new kitchen, fresh interior paint, new fixtures, water softener, custom draperies and so much more. The living room, with its glowing fireplace and newer 65 Sony T.V. with Sonos sound bar, is spacious and makes entertaining a breeze. The kitchen, built for gourmet chef, is home to plenty of new appliances and follows the rest of the home's attention to detail. The new custom easy-close cabinets adorn the walls with endless storage, while the new granite counters provide plenty of room for prep. Wake up and fall asleep while enjoying the private master-suite with walk-in closet, dual vanity, walk-in shower, and soaking tub. The yard is beautiful with its darling dining patio, mature landscaping, and plenty of space for a pool or gardening. With an indoor laundry room, 2-car garage, doublegated huge side-yard and every creature comfort you can imagine, this home was built for the type of convenience and carefree enjoyment you deserve. This is a rare gem in California Park. Bed: 3.0 Bath: 2.0 SqFt: 1,713 Price: $499,900

SOLD

Tucked away in a great established neighborhood awaits you this beautiful home. In this special place you will fall in love with its glimmering wood floors, its high ceilings and its numerous walls of glass windows that provide ample natural lighting. The living room is spacious and offers a toe-warming fireplace/wood insert for those cold winter nights. The darling kitchen with its eating bar, its large pantry, the refrigerator, the numerous cabinets and its under the sink Reverse Osmosis makes you want to eat at home. The light and airy dining room has a built in china cabinet and provides a plenty of space for entertaining.The other features include open floor plan, dual pane windows, a large bonus room that can be used as a forth bedroom, office or workout room, washer, dryer, storage shed and R.V. area. Of course the yard is stunning with its sparkling in-ground Gunite pool, its mature landscaping and its private covered dinning patio. This home is perfect place for entertaining your families and friends! Bed: 3.0 Bath: 2.0 SqFt: 1,730 Price: $499,000

CALIFORNIANS

We unloaded our daughter’s storage from the barn, packed up our horse-trailer with tables, couches, dressers, hutches, mirrors, and boxes of what-not, hitched the horsetrailer to the truck, and hit the road for the cross-desert trek to visit the little adobe house we had just purchased for her, in a river valley outside of Taos, New Mexico, sight unseen.

We used our horse-trailer because all the rental utility box-trailers were already being pulled by other Californians moving eastward. Not a single trailer was available for rent. Meanwhile, the long-term inhabitants of Nevada, Arizona, Idaho, New Mexico, Texas and beyond, shake their heads and wonder how many more of us they can take.

The New Mexico magazine we subscribe to contained an article beginning this way: “Perhaps it’s time to erect billboards in New Mexico urging Californians to stop migrating here.”

The common lament about migrating Californians is that we are out of control with our lifestyles, and we display careless attitudes and lack of respect for the localities and communities to which we are migrating.

Day two, on Highway 40, old Route 66, we pulled off the highway outside of Gallup, New Mexico, into a wide-open desert landscape, at a sign reading Budville. The exit road tees into a smaller road which tees into another even smaller road, with a sign facing us that says, “Village Closed. No guests or visitors.” Scanning the landscape, we see a house here or there, perched on one hill or another. We pulled to the right and drove a few hundred feet into a dirt pullout area. We fan out, stretching our legs, pulling stuff out of the horse-trailer, when the police SUV swings into place behind our rig with the lights flashing.

“Did you see the sign?” asks the officer, tilting his head a little, implying ‘You couldn’t miss it, right in front of your face.’

“Uh, yes.”

“All the pueblos are closed because of COVID.” Oops, we are on tribal land. He is tribal police. He surveys our scene: a suitcase, a couple of coolers, and random clothing strewn about. His eyes settle on our California license plate.

“You are trespassing,” he says. “You will be held over to appear in court. We will impound your vehicles.”

I attempt to excuse our carelessness and lack of respect by explaining we are from California. He agrees. He lets us off the hook. “This time.”

We apologize and make a little small talk about being the new buyers of the home up the road.

“Yeah,” he said, “you’re the ones from California, right?”

Right.

Doug Love is sales manager at Century 21 in Chico and would love to hear from you. Call or text 530-680-0817. Email dougwlove@gmail.com. See more columns at lovesrealstories.com.

Dream Neighborhood to Dream Kitchen

When Patrick and Katie Crowell first settled in Chico, they lived in a newer house with a small yard and very few mature plantings. Patrick remembers dropping off his niece’s friend in their current neighborhood, with its expansive lawns and large established trees, and saying, “Someday we’re going to live in that neighborhood.” Six years later, the opportunity to own a home in their dream spot presented itself, and the Crowells were ecstatic to continue their family journey in the new space.

The home’s dated kitchen sported a 1980’s feel, along with a poorly-executed layout, resulting in a cramped, crowded, and dark environment. The Crowells wanted an update, so they began reaching out to contractors. They obtained quotes from several area businesses, but then had a difficult time getting calls back due to an uptick in building and renovations. Patrick stopped in at the New Again Kitchen Remodeling showroom on Park Avenue and developed an instant rapport with the manager, Ric Powers. With the newfound friendship, he elected to have New Again Kitchen Remodeling carry out the renovation. Patrick and Katie went in full of ideas for the kitchen remodel, maybe even too many. Katie says, “My biggest struggle was that I had all these big ideas and big dreams for my ‘dream kitchen’, and I was just going to go for it.”

In hindsight, the Crowells realized a lot of their ideas weren’t practical for the new kitchen. Ric’s advice was crucial in helping them hone in on their wants and needs in order to make the project fit their budget and new space. “Ric was great about gently taming our ideas, explaining why some wouldn’t work well or why others wouldn’t be worth the money,” shared Patrick. “It’s so important to be flexible, but the remodel was so worth it!” Once they decided on the layout, lighting, and surfaces, it took New Again less than three weeks to complete the project. Naturally, the Crowell family could not be happier.

Their new kitchen is bright, airy, and open. The crème Shaker cabinets with clear glass inserts reflect the light coming in from the back window. Patrick says people often ask if they made the window bigger, but it’s simply an effect of the beautiful Sorrento Grigio tile they used to frame out the view. They also decided to incorporate it into the rest of the kitchen walls. The backsplash uses the same glassy soft-toned 3 x 16 tiles to continue the feel throughout the kitchen. The bright white counter, highlighted with its thick muted gray veins, is made of durable Vienna Quartz and truly completes the fresh new space.

Katie’s favorite thing about the kitchen is the sink. “We purchased the largest sink and, at first, we weren’t sure if it was going to work in the space.” They let Ric know how much they really wanted it and he, “somehow made it work. It’s absolutely perfect.” Patrick loves everything about the kitchen, but he is happiest with the way New Again was able to build the refrigerator into the cabinets so it’s tucked into the space rather than overtaking the area. Both Katie and Patrick love the new open layout along with the built-in conveniences usually not found in older homes, like built-in waste bins and roll-out pantry drawers. Little conveniences, like these, make keeping the kitchen clean and tidy easier, especially with dogs and children running around.

If you’re like the Crowells, and looking to have your kitchen or bathroom remodeled, give New Again Kitchen Remodeling a call, or stop in and speak with Ric to start your perfect refresh. Call (530) 899-2888 or visit by their showroom at 2502 Park Avenue in Chico.