Upgraded Living - October 2022 issue

Q&A

DERMAL FLLER WITH DR. HODARI

What are dermal fillers?

Dermal Fillers are gel-like products that are injected into the skin in order to add volume or decrease wrinkles, primarily in the face. The products are typically composed of a substance called Hyaluronic Acid (HA), which is a naturally occurring substance in our skin. HA is found amongst our collagen fibers and helps to support the appearance of healthy skin. Products like Juvéderm® and Restylane® are examples of commonly used dermal fillers available today.

What can filler treat?

As we age, we lose volume, mostly fat and collagen, in our faces. Dermal Fillers are typically used to treat areas of facial volume loss, such as the cheeks, smile lines, Marionette lines, under-eye tear trough area, lips, and temples. Dermal Fillers can also be used to treat superficial fine lines that are due to sun damage or excessive muscular use, like the so-called “smoker’s lines” above the lip. Unfortunately, one need not be a smoker to have those prominent upper lip lines. Fortunately, Fillers, as they are also called, are very helpful in improving these lines.

What is the difference between BOTOX® and filler?

Botox is a chemical that comes in a liquid form. It works by inhibiting a muscle’s ability to contract. Therefore Botox can be considered, and is typically effective, for any line that is a result of muscle contracting. Common areas where Botox is effective are the lines of the forehead and around the eyes, or the so-called crow’s feet area. Botox, like Filler, can also be used to treat the vertical lip lines of the upper lip, because these lines are due to both volume loss (Fillers) and muscular contraction (Botox).

How much filler do I need?

The amount of Filler needed depends on many factors, such as the patient’s age and the number of areas they wish to treat. For example, if someone wanted to treat their smile lines, lips lines, and cheeks, that patient might need 3 vials; in this case, one vial per area treated. However, sometimes, patients may need more or even fewer vials per area, depending on what their goals may be. It is not unusual to need 3-5 vials of filler to address one’s concerns. It’s helpful to remember that each vial is approximately 1 cc of volume, and a teaspoon is composed of just over 5 cc’s. In other words, a small amount of product can make a big difference. And 5 vials is not as much volume as one might initially think. All of our treatments are customized based on our patient's concerns and goals.

Dermal Fillers

I was really nervous being it my first time for injections but everyone was so nice and made me feel so at ease especially, Dr. Hodari. He’s amazing! My daughter is a patient of his also and she is the one who talked me into coming to him as she loves his work and his wonderful personality!! I’m so happy that I made the trip to Chico and I can’t wait to see my results!

- Cindy W.

1178 LIVE OAK BLVD YUBA CITY, CA 95991 (530) 329-8511

BEFORE AFTER

BEFORE AFTER

80 DECLARATION DR. CHICO, CA 95973 (530) 342-8295

672 ORO DAM BLVD E. SUITE 202 OROVILLE, CA 95965 (530) 533-3571

FROM THE PUBLISHER

Halloween was my favorite holiday growing up, and though I thought that would change when I became an adult, the day never came to pass. Between my insatiable sweet tooth and love for all things paranormal, Halloween has always felt customtailored to my needs. It should come as no surprise, then, when I say I've always wanted to publish a supernatural issue complete with ghost stories and tales from beyond. Though the idea resurfaced with each passing year, it wasn't until this one that I actually proposed it.

To be perfectly honest, I wasn't at all sure what would come from it, but I couldn't have been more thrilled by what did. Our writers scoured Northern California in search of the best ghost and paranormal stories they could find and came back with an absolute treasure trove of options— some historical, many first-person experiences, and one in particular that was so heavy we almost decided not to publish it. Rather than give away the impact of the story in my publisher's note, I'll leave its exact location in the issue out and let you find it for yourself. You'll know it within the first few paragraphs, and let me say once you've finished reading it, I have no doubt you'll be just as stunned as all of us were while reading and putting it together. I expect you'll be compelled to act upon the information its ending provides.

This issue is full of incredible stories—some fantastic, others heart-warming, and many that will make the hairs on the back of your neck stand straight on end. We all hope you find the same thrill in reading each as we did discovering them.

UPGRADED LIVING STAFF

AVEED KHAKI Owner/Publisher

JASON CORONA Sales Director

BEAU VANDERMATE General Swiss Army Knife

SHELLY BRANDON Writer

TIM MILHORN Writer

MADDIE RODRIGUEZ Writer

ERIK BROWN Cover Designer DIANE CLIFFORD Cover Story Photographer

CONTRIBUTORS

DOUG LOVE Real Estate

PAT MACIAS Art RYAN STEFANELLI Taco Tracker

SWEENEY & MICHEL Finance DERM BAR Beauty JESSICA WILKERSON Mental Health

For editorial or general magazine inquiries, please contact: Aveed Khaki, 530.519.5683 aveed@upgradedliving.com

For sales inquiries, please contact: Jason Corona, 530.591.2634 jason@upgradedliving.com

Aveed Khaki

Owner/Publisher

COMMUNITY

12 Pat Macias commemorates the life and passions of Reed Applegate.

15 Paradise's headless hound haunts unlucky residents.

16 The Inksip Hotel's resident ghost, Charlie, continues to seek justice for his favorite building.

19 Jose "Joser" Rosales inspires the youth of Orland to live more meaningful and positive lives.

22 Danny Ballard delights Oroville residents and visitors with his historical ghost tours.

26 Tim Lehor beautifully depicts the world around him with his captivating art.

35 Some of our favorite ghost stories as told by residents of Northern California.

47 Jodi Foster moved into a new apartment near Parmac Road in 1999. What followed will leave you speechless.

52 More ghost stories from friends throughout Northern California

60 Musician Lorna Such delights audiences with her unique melodies.

62 Cool Kid Riley McGaugh proves it's never too early to take on entrepreneurship.

FEATURE

43 Cindy Haskett and Evie Feldman of Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate prove that a culture of giving can create an immense amount of change within one's community.

FOOD

55 This month's caffeinated chatter explores even more experiences with the paranormal.

56 Two of our favorite local sandwich shops, D'Emilio's and Spiteri's take on this month's showdown.

58 The spookiest ingredient of them all—Tim Milhorn presents the ghost pepper.

POTPOURRI

24 Jessica Wilkerson provides insight on resolving grief.

28 Doug Love delivers safety tips for the impending fire season.

34 Sweeney & Michel remind us that the most difficult part of investing is sticking it out through bear markets.

ON THE COVER: A CULTURE OF GIVING AT BETTER HOMES AND GARDENS REAL ESTATE

DESIGN BY: ERIK BROWN PHOTO BY: DIANE NICOLE PHOTOGRAPHY

Reed applegate: man about town

In 2009, a group of art and community members were approached to discuss the use of a beautiful (but vacant) 1927 classical revival building on the Esplanade in Chico that had been the home to Butte County Veterans for many years. It sat empty for 12 years and the owner, Butte County, was looking for fresh ideas for its use and ways to restore it to a vibrant life. After meetings with neighbors, art appreciators, and interested people in the community, the idea of an art museum began to emerge.

As then director of the 1078 Gallery, I met many collectors, artists, and art enthusiasts. One that stood out to me was Reed Applegate who quietly attended receptions and quite often purchased art. One day

in 2010, after a long conversation over Starbucks coffee, Reed and I hit upon the idea of using the vacant Veterans Hall as an art museum that could highlight the work of Northern California artists and provide the opportunity to display a portion of Reed’s collection. This beautiful, stately building on the Esplanade seemed to be an ideal location. Thus began the journey of a future monca and Reed Applegate.

It is obvious that Reed embodied the traits that are important to be an art collector and art enthusiast. He had the eye for the unusual. He understood the process of creating art and appreciated the creation of beauty. Through conversations with him, one could see his desire to follow the

careers of the various artists represented in his collection of Northern California art. And, most of all, he had a passion and a desire to share his art with others.

These are the traits that encompassed Reed’s life-long passion to collect art and share it with the community. Most notably, he purchased art that had been produced by Northern California artists beginning with his peers and art instructors at Chico State University and branching out further to the north, south, east and west in California.

Among the work he collected was the art of Janet Turner, Peter Voulkos, Wayne Thiebaud, David Park, Nathan Olivera, David Gilhooly, Roy DeForest and many, many Chico-area artists.

BY PAT MACIAS

My first memories of meeting Reed were at various art openings from the 1078 Gallery, the Chico Art Center and the Turner Print Museum, where I began to understand how eager and passionate he was about art in almost every medium. He particularly liked the print medium but was also excited about painting, photography, and sculpture. He had an eye for what was strong in an artist’s portfolio, and he made sure to collect the best pieces.

Reed was born and raised in Chico and continued to live in the same house he grew up in. My impressions of him were his being comfortable in the everyday experiences that led him on his journey of who he became. Having lived in Chico all his life, Reed was a determined city walker who daily stopped in to greet the owners of stores and local galleries, have coffee at Starbucks, do research at Meriam Library, and attend and support artists and art venues during receptions and art walks. He became familiar with the student interns at the University Gallery who knew him by name, and I am sure learned from his knowledge of collecting. His favorite downtown events were Slice of Chico, Christmas Preview, and the Harvest Sidewalk Sale. He lived a simple life so he could pursue his passion for collecting. The things important in his life were his Chico art friends and his personal “art friends” in his collection. He looked forward every year to hosting a summer potluck in his backyard for other collectors, artists, and art lovers. His life was filled with the arts as he also was an avid North State Symphony patron, a wonderful pianist in his own right, and loved to attend the Chico Ballet performances.

In the early stages of creating a Chico art museum, a board of directors was formed. Reed was on the initial founding board during which he participated in the development of the mission statement and the premise that the museum would focus exclusively on art created by artists of Northern California. In 2014, with a generous grant from The Discovery Shoppe, Trudy Duisenberg directed and produced a film on The Legacy Artists that included Ann Pierce, Claudia Steel, Richard Hornaday and Sal Casa. This film was narrated by Reed, and it premiered at the Chico Women’s Club in 2014 to a full house.

As an early founder and idea man for

monca, Reed generously gifted a part of his extensive art collection of Northern California art to the museum as its signature gift plus a large donation to begin this dream of an art museum in Chico. With this gift of art, over 5,000 students in Chico and surrounding area schools have had the experience of learning with “real art” from a museum. Similarly, senior centers, science fairs and city-wide art events including the City Hall have been exposed to wonderful Northern California artists from monca’s permanent collection. In 2014, the museum was awarded the Mayor’s Award for Achievement in the Arts, recognizing both the museum and Reed’s contributions.

Since 2018, the museum is honored to have been voted by members of the community as “Best Museum.”

Converting the Veterans Memorial Hall to a museum involved considerable oversight by the members of the board. Over the years, from 2012 in Downtown Chico pop-up locations, a three-month exhibition at the Shasta County Arts Council in Redding, to when the doors were opened in the Veterans Memorial Hall in 2017, most early exhibitions included artwork from Reed’s gift to the permanent collection. As the museum administration considers the future of monca, plans for its expansion will allow Reed Applegate’s gift to be viewed by an even wider audience. A plan is underway to increase the exhibition space of the museum to house a more prominent and permanent area for the slowly growing museum collection.

We invite you to join the Chico art community by walking in Reed’s shoes for a Memorial Reed Applegate Art Crawl on the evening of Friday, October 14 from 5-8pm. The crawl will start at the 1078 Gallery on Park Avenue, moving on to the Chico Art Center on Cherry Street, and the Turner Print Museum on the CSU campus, then concluding the evening on the Esplanade at monca where there will be a memorial video of Reed, an exhibition of work from his collection, and a memorial wall on which visitors can leave notes and memories about their own Reed experience and his generosity. Join us and raise a glass of champagne to say, “Thank you Reed,” and may you rest in peace.

WRITTEN

In search of the headless hound

“Samhain, when the barrier between the worlds is whisper-thin and when magic, old magic, sings its heady and sweet song to anyone who cares to hear it.”

BY SHELLY BRANDON

-Caryolyn McCullough, Once a Witch

Stories of ghosts, peculiar happenings, and eerie premonitions linger all year long, but seem to creep up more often around October as our focus shifts to things lurking in the darkness. It seems we are often drawn to exploring the unknown, unseen, and other-worldly entities. This curiosity has existed for millennia and follows humans throughout history.

In the late 1800’s, a young girl named Frances Breese lived on The Ridge and spoke of a place called Ghost Hollow near Clark and Bille Roads of Paradise today. The exact origin of this area’s name is unknown, but its supernatural inhabitants decidedly had a hand in that provenance.

There are tales of a headless dog

who roams the hills—large, dark, and foreboding. This hell hound seems to be drawn to the light of lanterns. Is he searching for his lost and earthbound owner in the hopes of reuniting? Or perhaps he’s drawn to the light as he seeks revenge on those who brought about his demise? It seems we will never know as anyone daring enough to attempt to touch him reports the dark ghostly form would quickly disappear into thin air, as if it were never truly there.

Frances, along with her cousins, went out to investigate the phenomena one night, trekking across the dark hollow hoping, and not hoping, to see the ghost. However, they carried no lantern, no beacon to call the hound, and so they say they never personally witnessed the headless apparition. If you decide to head up to Ghost Hollow one October evening, be sure the moon is full and bright so you’ve no need for a flashlight—or wait until the moon is dark and carry your brightest torch. The choice is yours.

A Hotel and its ghost

Echoes of our past reverberate all around us. Some of these echoes are louder and more persistent than others, like the ghost, Charlie, at the old Inskip Hotel.

Remnants of history are scattered throughout the cities, towns, and forests of Butte County. One of these towns, Inskip, once clamored with frenzied gold rush activity. It was a bustling stagecoach stop for miners—full of stores, saloons, stables, and hotels. Today, only one of those pieces of history remains, the old building that began its life in 1857 as the Kelly & Co. Hotel. But it didn’t journey through time alone, it brought with it an old friend—Charlie.

John Stokes bought the hotel from Pat Kelley in 1866 only to have it burn down two years later. Stokes rebuilt the hotel and christened it with a new name, the Inskip. The fire that destroyed the original hotel was so intense that the only thing salvageable was a trunk containing the books and accounts from the original owner. That fire was rumored to be set deliberately, and the ever-present resident ghost, nicknamed Charlie, is said to be the spirit of John Stokes who is still looking for the arsonist. Charlie is known

for locking and unlocking doors, along with stomping loudly up and down the stairwell. A woman staying at the hotel reported that she believed he held a bathroom door shut, trapping her inside. She thought she was locked in, but the only lock on the door was on the inside.

Most interactions with Charlie are with his invisible presence, simply hearing or feeling his influence; a poltergeist of sorts, but a few visitors say they’ve actually seen him. One guest saw not one, but two men dressed in clothing reminiscent of the 1800s standing next to her bed in the shadows of night. The next morning, a little girl who helped at the hotel, spoke of a similar experience she had the night before, but only saw one ghostly figure in her room. Both shared that they had locked their doors before settling down for the evening, and their descriptions of the man and his clothing were identical.

Where is Charlie now? Is he still roaming Inskip and the surrounding areas searching for the arsonist? Or, is his spirit free of its earthly fetter and the Inskip Hotel alone now as it continues through time?

BY

PHOTO BY

skincare for all seasons

Our skin is the largest organ of the body, and it performs many key functions. It protects the body from injuries, thermal fluctuations, light radiation, and invasion of bacteria and microorganisms. It regulates body temperature and moisture loss through the sweat glands. It is a sensory organ that processes heat, cold, pain, and pleasure. It is also influenced by hormones and internal organs, as well as outside influences.

What you put on your skin and into your body can have profound effects on the appearance and health of the skin. Smoking, sun exposure, dehydration, nutrition, and drugs, (prescription and non-prescription) can have very long-lasting effects.

Most damage occurs from UV rays breaking down our DNA and causing us to age more rapidly, causing wrinkles and dark spots to appear.

The use of quality skincare products, plus a sunscreen of SPF 30-50 can really make a difference in keeping the skin healthy and youthful looking. Other contributing factors are stress, allergies, lifestyle, and climate.

There are steps we can take to maintain healthy skin: Drink plenty of water, eat right, keep skin clean and exfoliated, and get plenty of sleep. Most skin damage is preventable, but there are also corrective procedures available to reverse some of these skin issues!

85 Declaration Dr. Suite 100 Chico, CA 95973 530.342.2672

BY TIM MILHORN

You've got to show up

One thing Jose “Joser” Rosales learned growing up with seven brothers and sisters is that you’ve got to show up. Be it in the classroom, on the basketball court, for your family, or in time for dinner— you have to show up. By “showing up” he doesn’t mean just being there. He means being a positive participant and contributing to the situation. “There were years growing up when I was there, but I didn’t show up,” said Rosales. “Like many of us, I had to learn the hard way on how to really show up and make a difference.”

Joser, who received the nickname from a friend in third grade, learned how to apply “showing up” when he started playing basketball. “I’m telling you, basketball saved my life,” he said. “Playing led to a

healthy mind and a healthy body. I found my real friends in the basketball gyms and parks when I was in school in Arizona.” As he said, you can play for fun or you can play competitively, but you’ve got to show up no matter the situation.

Like many Orland kids, Rosales had that burning desire to get the hell out of a small town. He was going to make his way into the big world and never look back. However, after a few years in Arizona and art school, he felt a desire to go back, start a business, and help local youth. The business, Explozo’s Custom Tattoos, is well-known in the area, and he has had professional athletes as customers. “You have to be a real artist to ink tattoos,” he said. His other art is

painted on the walls of the local schools— all inspirational sayings kids can read and apply to their lives.

“I used to tell kids no one cares, but they took that negatively. What I really meant and refined is, ‘No one cares until you start showing up and caring for yourself,’ and the kids relate to that.”

By “kids,” Rosales means the many kids in the Orland area he has coached, starting back in 2005 as an assistant JV boys’ basketball coach. In 2010, he began coaching in the Orland Recreation Youth Program and then volunteered at C.K. Price Middle School. On top of that, he formed a team to play in the AAU Basketball program in 2020. His daughter, Cali, became super excited and

began naming off friends she wanted on the team. Joser said, “I told her her friends just played the game. They weren’t necessarily players. So, we got girls from Hamilton City, Willows, and Lake and Plaza school. These were girls who wanted to compete and get better.” In other words, these were the girls who would show up. He impresses that on his other children Dayla Sol and Janio.

Recently, Rosales started an art scholarship at Orland High School. The first kid to win it: Kyle Shannon, for welding. “Kyle is not only a welder, he’s an artist. He shows up,” said Rosales. “No matter what you do in life, you have to show up.”

Tales from a gold rush town

The founding of Oroville can be traced back to the early days of the Gold Rush, when people from all over the country, indeed from all over the world, poured into California seeking to make their fortune. Originally called Ophir City, Oroville’s position on the banks of the Feather River made it an ideal place to settle, and many people did, creating a prosperous little town that has endured to this day. The often scandalous history of brothels and bedlam, of saloons and the Wild West, lends an air of mystery to Oroville, and it could be said that no one is more dedicated to rooting out and preserving these stories than Daniel Ballard.

Daniel moved to Oroville when he was 10 years old and, as a self-taught historian, believes that spreading the message about the past to present and future generations isn’t just important; it’s imperative. “It seems like everyone

under 40 has been raised with not just a lack of historical background on Oroville, but also a very negative attitude about our town,” he said. “I’m trying to be the one who changes that attitude because going back, the people who lived here always had an immense pride in Oroville’s history.”

Daniel began putting on walking tours around Downtown Oroville a year-anda-half ago, when the persistent COVID lockdowns had him craving a creative outlet. With sound equipment generously donated by the city and a packet of well-researched stories, he leads groups of people around town imparting tales of famous people who retired there, businesses that once thrived there, and buildings that once stood where now there are none at all. Last October, Daniel put on the first ghost tour, and it was such a success that he has decided to revive the custom again this year. “We’re going

to be doing mainly restaurants this year,” Daniel said. So far the Union restaurant and Provisions on Montgomery St. are confirmed, and more will be added as the date for the tour gets closer.

Daniel has spent time diving deep into microfilm of old newspapers at the public library and consulting with individuals he knows—and some that he doesn’t—to create the best experience for his tour attendees. At each stop along the ghost tour, guests will be treated to visual performances as well as recountings of tales that will make the hair on the back of their neck stand on end. One of Daniel’s stories from last year was printed in both the Oroville Mercury-Register and the Chico Enterprise Record and involves a woman who owned a brothel.

Legend has it that a man fell in love with this woman, and she scorned him, telling him that he could just trot right off and fall in love with one of her ladies instead. As for herself, she told him, she was much too busy running a business and much

too independent to become second fiddle to some man. The man took umbrage with the brothel-keeper’s attitude, so he murdered her, right there in her building. After committing this heinous crime, the man was sent to San Quentin to do his time and made worldwide news when he blew up his cell block using only the contents of his last meal.

This slightly torrid tale is just an example of what you can expect when you attend one of Daniel’s tours. You’ll find out things you never knew before, and they’ll stay with you for a long, long time—certainly long after the last Jack-o’-lantern has turned to mush on your front stoop.

Downtown Oroville’s Ghost Tour will be taking place on Saturday, October 30th, with more details to come. Visit the Downtown Oroville Walking Tours Facebook page for updates and further information.

Resolving Grief

Remembrances, resentments, and regrets; these are the three topics that need to be processed to move a person through their thoughts and feelings when someone they care about has been diagnosed with something life threatening or when someone’s life has come to an end.

Remembrances: Reminisce with the person and with others. Remembering positive moments or character traits helps bring a fullness and a gratitude for having them in your life. If you are gifted the moments to spend with the person while they are still living, then this also brings a sense of peace to them that they have lived their life well.

Resentments: No one is perfect. We all have human moments where we have hurt people or wronged someone, intentionally or not. When someone passes away, and we don’t get resolution for the way they hurt us, we are likely to still feel a myriad of emotions. Our feelings about the issue have not been resolved just because the person is no longer with us, but our guilt about those feelings can often be just as large. Know that your resentments are honest emotions that need to be

processed just as much as the remembrances do.

Regrets: We weren’t always the perfect companion to this person. We are all fully human, and humans make mistakes. Humans sometimes realize those mistakes after it’s too late, or humans wait too long to right their wrongs. However, the person who is gone is no longer waiting for atonement from you, and it’s okay to work through that regret and release it. Carrying it around will not bring them peace; it will only bring you more pain.

Talking through these three points with safe people in your life can bring healing to your sorrow and can help make sense of some complicated emotions. Talking to someone, like a therapist, who is trained and qualified to help walk alongside you, can also allow you to be fully yourself with the thoughts and emotions that you might not want to share with others, but which are necessary for your healing. Inspired Life Counseling has nine therapists trained to work with you in your time of need. We are here; we can help. www.inspiredlifechico.com

Jessica Wilkerson, MA, LMFT 104464 is a licensed marriage and family therapist in Chico, CA. She is an EMDR clinician as well as the owner/operator and clinical supervisor of Inspired Life Counseling. For more information, visit www.jessicawilkerson.com and www.inspiredlifechico.com. Jessica can also be reached via phone at (530) 809-1702

The passion of artistry

Artist Tim Lehor says the most rewarding aspect of being an artist, especially when creating portraits of loved ones and people’s pets, is the moment the work of art is revealed to the client for the first time. “It’s such a good feeling when you know you can do something for someone, and when you show them the piece, they're speechless with emotion.”

Lehor began his artistic journey in earnest when he was in seventh grade and attended a career day presentation on being a cartoonist. “I’d always had a knack for drawing,” said Lehor. “I was always doodling at home when I was a kid.” In high school, he took architecture and drafting classes which further cemented his desire to become an artist.

Lehor came up to Chico at the urging of his nephew, Dan Lehor. Tim was a walk-on for the Chico State football team in 1979, and he co-majored in art and physical education. There were so many artists in P.E. that they sponsored an art show along the hallway

between the north and south gyms. “It’s surprising so many athletes are artists,” said Lehor.

After earning a teaching credential at Chico State, Lehor found himself employed at C.K. Price Middle School in Orland. There, he taught health, physical education, and ran the art department for over 15 years. He taught art in grades seven and eight, emphasizing the basics: forms, perspective, drawing, and painting. “The biggest challenge teaching this age is you have to learn how to let the kids make mistakes,” said Lehor. “You can’t redo their work for them.”

While he likes viewing abstract art, he prefers to be realistic in his own work. “I like to freeze the moment in time. I enjoy the detail and the challenge to create that which exemplifies the real person or subject.” He has painted or drawn hundreds of portraits of people, animals, and still life subjects. He often works with a photograph and brings the subject to life on the canvas or page.

“I’ll draw or paint three to four times a week for various lengths of time,” said Lehor. “I can do a painting or drawing in a week, but I’d rather take my time to make sure it’s right.” One time, in college, he had to paint three paintings over the weekend. That’s a job he avoids these days. He currently completes two or three pieces per month, and he works with pencil, oil, watercolor, and prisma color. His other passion in life is golf.

“Now that I’m retired from teaching, I’m able to play golf three times a week. I’m a lucky guy to pursue both of my passions. It’s a good life,” he summed up. Supporting him in these passions is his wife Lori, who still works in Chico. “Lori has been great,” he said. “She’s encouraged me all along.”

If you’d like to commission a piece of art or just have a look at what Tim Lehor does, you can find him at Par One Design on Facebook. Check out his latest piece, a barn owl watercolor.

WRITTEN BY TIM MILHORN

Fire season

As the summer season moves toward fall, we are still in the season with no change at all: Fire season. We will soon see the leaves on the trees changing color, but more significantly, the leaves are dry.

True, we are seeing a little increase in humidity with the monsoon clouds coming up from the south, and even a little rain in the mountainous areas, but don’t let that moisture fool you.

Until fire season ends, we must stay vigilant with fire prevention techniques. Just a few of the little things in fire prevention can make a big difference in whether your place survives a firestorm.

Give your place the once-over with fire prevention in mind. Here are some techniques from the Buttecounty.net/ disaster preparedness website:

Right now:

• Clear off the roof and empty the gutters.

• Clear the driveway to at least twenty feet wide, and fifteen feet from the ground up, for fire trucks.

• Clear the weeds within thirty feet of all structures, propane tanks, and utility boxes.

• Develop your outside water supply, with hoses to reach the entire house.

• Cut tree limbs that hang within 15 feet of the roof and chimney. Install a spark arrestor on the chimney and keep it clear

of tar and debris.

• Thin and prune the dead stuff out of trees and brush.

• Move that stack of firewood thirty feet from the house, preferably uphill.

If you are evacuated:

• If you have time and capability, blow or sweep the leaves, pine needles, and debris from the roof, and out of the gutters.

• Lean a ladder against the side of the house, right out front where the firefighters can see it.

• Close all the doors inside the house and drop shutters and blinds, again to prevent air draft.

• Shut off the gas or propane supply lines. Put your can’t-live-without papers and valuables in the car.

• Put the pets in the car.

• Release any horses and livestock from barns into the pasture.

These are just a few of the recommended techniques. People have come up with more ideas with sprinkler systems, landscaping, and fireproof materials outside and inside houses and buildings.

We are in this together and need to stay prepared.

Doug Love is Sales Manager at Century 21 in Chico. Email dougwlove@gmail.com. Call or text 530-680-0817.

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pool

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Bidwell Park is right by your doorstep in a location so rare and beautiful, the word "magnificent" seems like an understatement. You will be in awe when you enter this stunning home. Recently updated, this residence offers an open floor plan, generously proportioned rooms and peaceful ambiance. The family room is spacious and boasts a beautiful gas fireplace perfect for snuggling up during those cold rainy days. The lavish living room and the formal dining room are perfect for large gatherings and entertaining families and friends. You will marvel at the gourmet kitchen with its center island, new cabinets, granite countertops, gas cook top, pots/pans drawers and its stainless steel appliances. You will love the master suite of this home which is equipped with a large walk-in closet, dual vanities, walk-in shower and jetted tub for your relaxation. From its cork flooring, to its tankless water heater, central vacuum system, security system, whole house fan, plantation shutter and finally its OWNED SOLAR system, this home exemplifies the quality of the fine homes. The yard is beautiful with its stately trees and flowering shrubs, offering a large dining patio, enormous RV parking with 30 AMP RV hook up, and all on .41 acres with plenty of space for a pool! Call to see it today!

Bed: 3.0 Bath:

Price:

Acres: 1.02 Price: $59,500

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Tranquility!!! Where the eagles soar above, you will discover this magical place. Located on a quiet cul-de-sac, this 1+ acre lot once boasted an elegant 3100+a sqft, 3 bedroom, 3 bathroom, newer 10 years old home prior to the camp fire. Awake to the sounds of singing birds and commune with nature here!

Acres: 1.02 Price: $65,000

Own a piece of PARADISE!!! If you are looking for your private estate property, then come and see what this gorgeous 1+ acre parcel has to offer. Situated on a quiet cul-de-sac location, it will take only one look to know this is where you want your dream home to be. While its heavenly, the price is down to earth. Bring your blueprint and build!

Acres: 1.02 Price: $59,000

"My wife and I have bought and sold several properties and we have worked with many realtors. Effie Khaki is by far the best realtor we have ever worked with. She is intelligent, kind and a great communicator. I hope to work with her again."

-Dr. Erik Simchuk, Chico

BY RENEE MICHEL, MBA, AND JOE SWEENEY, CFP ® , FINANCIAL ADVISORS AT SWEENEY & MICHEL, LLC

You’re driving south on I-5, doing a respectable 70 miles per hour in the left lane. Without warning, a red convertible shows up in your rearview. Its high beams flash twice. Before you can check for an open lane to move over, they shift gears, fill your blind spot, then blow past going 95. You mutter something unfit for church as the taillights race out of view.

A few minutes pass. Suddenly, the convertible is back in view. It’s parked on the shoulder, and a CHP Dodge Charger is parked behind it, blue and red lights still spinning. “Busted,” you think, as a satisfied feeling known as Schadenfreude washes over you.

In German, Schadenfreude means “to take pleasure in another’s misfortune.” Although not a positive or gracious feeling, you can probably think of several occasions you’ve felt it.

Many doomsday prophets have been incorrectly calling for a market crash for 10+ years. Unfortunately, a poor track record rarely stops a fortune teller from showing up to work.

This year, the doomsayers have scored a few points. Many stock and asset prices are down from all-time highs. Predictably, they’re beating their chest and warning us to take cover for what’s next. It’s Schadenfreude behavior at its finest.

They know that when markets drop (like in 2022) any short-term “alternative solution” looks tempting to the average investor. Even (and especially) if it’s a lousy one for the long run.

Don’t fall for it.

Emotions are terrible investors. Don’t let anyone scare you into a product or out of your plan.

Investing can often feel like traffic, it’s tempting to jump into the lane that looks like it’s moving faster. But as we’ve all experienced, traffic eventually clears up, so it’s often best to stay patient in our own lane and enjoy the ride.

for informational purposes. Advisory services are only

to

or exempt from licensure. Past performance is no guarantee of future

by Sweeney & Michel, LLC unless a client service agreement is in place.

Road, Suite 100, Chico CA 95926

The stillness of the moonlight

I was a match girl. My father died when I was young, leaving us—my mother, two sisters, and me—to fend for ourselves. We never had much money, and it was no small thing that we were able to keep our little home in the neighborhood near the match factory when he died. I took on double shifts just to help keep food on the table, while my sisters, who were both very young, helped my mother take in washing.

In 1903, I started on the floor of the packing room, boxing up the matches tipped with white phosphorous before they left Chico by rail for far-away towns I’d never see. By 1905, my jaw had become tender and painful to the touch. I began to have fevers and toothaches. I didn’t want to burden my mother with my problems, but the match factory had a first aid room, so I betook myself there to talk to one of the nurses.

Mrs. Adams was her name, and she was a large, forbidding woman with an iron grip and sensible shoes on her big feet. She was not unkind, though, and asked me what I did for the company.

“I’m a match girl,” I told her.

She peered into my mouth as I sat on an elevated table, awkwardly holding my hands in my lap. After she had finished her examination, she took off her spectacles and sighed.

“I’m afraid it looks like an abcess,” she said. “You’ll need to see a dentist to have your lower molar removed.”

I stared blankly at her. It wasn’t like we had the extra money to go off visiting dentists. What was a little discomfort, really? I could handle it.

I thanked Mrs. Adams and went back to work. Over the next year, the toothaches started to get worse, and by Christmas 1906, I was laid up in bed in an agony of pain, my face swollen, too sick to go to work. My mother, somewhat beyond concern and bordering on hysteria, summoned a doctor.

“Well, it’s worse than I thought,” Dr. Stansbury said after he had examined me. “I’m afraid she has what workers are calling phossy jaw. It’s a complication that arises from the vapors of the white phosphorous used to make the matches at the factory.”

I could tell that this news upset my mother immensely.

“What are we to do, Dr. Stansbury?” she asked tremulously.

“I’m sorry,” the doctor replied with a sigh. “This is such an advanced case that her organs have already begun to shut down. It will only be a matter of time now.”

He patted my mother’s arm. “I’ll give her some morphine for the pain,” he said.

My mother wept quietly after he left, sitting on the edge of my bed, holding my hand. I felt a peaceful nothingness, drifting as I was in a haze of morphine delirium. I died three days later, but I did not rest.

My soul, like the souls of all the other match girls gone too soon, simply exists between this life and the next, restless and melancholy. We never married, never had children, never got to experience a life outside the walls of the match factory. We trail about the property, weeping and sighing, mourning our lost youth. Over a hundred years has passed since my death, and as time has worn on, I’ve seen the factory disappear slowly, until only one hulking brick shell remains of the whole operation. The town has grown up around the Barber neighborhood and the old homes of the match company workers. Our only visitors are sly and nervous teenagers who sneak through the gates in the middle of the night to hold seances and dance to unrecognizable music on portable phonographs.

We are lost, and likely to remain so, but some say that if you really listen closely, you can still hear the whispers of us match girls, light as a kiss, on still, moonlit nights.

From top to bottom: Three unidentified girls dressed in matching jumpers posed in front of the Diamond Match Company playing fields. Diamond Match Company Factory, Chico, Calif. Portrait of the first aid room of the Diamond Match Company

Written by Maddie Rodriguez. Photos courtesy California State University, Chico, Meriam Library Special Collections

It all started with a bench when I was about four. It was an old coffee bench that my grandpa always used to sit at. After his passing, the bench was passed down and ended up in my family’s possession. It has been a family heirloom for generations and is one of those things that always will stay with the family.

Right around the time the bench was given to us, I started to see an imaginary friend wherever I went and then proceeded to convince myself it was my grandpa trying to comfort me after he passed away. In the beginning, when I saw him, I would ask my family if ‘Grandpa’ could come to lunch or if I could go with Grandpa. It became normal for me to be outside regularly playing with my ‘grandpa.’ At least, that’s what I thought until one day the entity became more aggressive.

Before his death, my grandpa was an avid photographer and took his camera wherever he went. So, one day while playing,

The Bench Cherie Krantz

my imaginary friend took my picture. I ran inside to tell my mom that grandpa took my picture. My mom, at the time, just thought it was a way of me dealing with loss and grief and found it sweet that her little girl missed her grandpa so much. That was until I told her what he said after. To this day, I get chills when I think about it. He asked if he could, "take me away too" and he "would be so happy if I went with him." This freaked my mom out, and like all protective mothers, my mom didn’t find it cute or amusing anymore. It was terrifying that some unknown entity wanted to take her girl away from her.

My mom proceeded to call one of her friends who was a medium and asked her for advice. The medium suggested looking for anything unusual around the property that could link me to this unknown entity. My mom took a walk around the property, and the bench immediately caught her attention. She figured that had to be it. Considering the bench had gone through many generations, it did make sense that some unknown entity could have attached itself. My mom proceeded to bless the property with sage and kindly asked the entity to leave, stating that it was causing the family more harm than good. From that day forward, nothing has happened. We still have the bench to this day.

The Lady and the ranch

Nicole Andreini

My family are cattle ranchers, and we lived on this big ranch. Back when I was 10, my parents decided to remodel the house. It was a tiny 1800s-styled house that was in need of dire remodeling. We took a different approach to the rebuild than most people do—we actually built around the already constructed house and still lived in the previous one simultaneously. It was actually really fun living through the whole remodel process.

Through the process of tearing down walls, we had a few different encounters that we deemed a ghost and paranormal in nature. The most frequent poltergeist was a woman. One encounter happened when my father left for a few days, and it

was just my mom and my siblings at the ranch. One night, while I was going to bed, I kept hearing unexplained noises. Then the weirdest thing happened— towards the foot of my bed, I could feel someone or something sit down next to me. I looked up to see nothing. Later that night, I woke up to gravel crunching outside as if a vehicle was coming up the driveway, but there was no car.

Even later in the night, after I finally went to bed, my mom and her sister were hanging out when all of a sudden my aunt's eyes went huge, and her face showed a ghostly white. The next thing my aunt said was, “Turn around, turn around!” My mom did and was met with

a strange figure in the hallway following what could only be described as the sound of radio static. Then, the figure suddenly disappeared. At this point, my mom and aunt were screaming, and everyone in the house woke up. My mom flicked on a light to get a better view, and to her horror, the entire room was filled with mosquitos accompanied by the eerie buzzing of the insect. It seemed as quickly as they were there, the mosquitos soon vanished with no explanation.

After the incident, my aunt was so freaked out she ended up seeking a medium to maybe get some answers. Before my aunt could fully step into the room, the medium said, "Don't worry she is a good ghost; she wants to protect you." In my aunt's mind, the reassurance made relaxing at the house a bit easier.

Unexplained things continued to happen around the house. For instance, everyday houseware items were disappearing. We used to keep our house key under the saw outside, then one day we went to unlock the house, and the key was gone. We couldn't find it for weeks. This was all going on while my father was on his hunting trip. Unexplained stuff would seem to happen in my father's absence. Then, one day, my father came home, and we told him about the key that was missing. He proceeded to lift up the saw to find the key laying directly under it. He naturally shot us his ‘are you serious’ look of complete concern and confusion.

Things didn't let up until the new remodel was completely finished. One night, my mom and I went to a 4-H meeting only to come home to the house billowing with smoke. Fearing the worst, my mom burst through the door to find a smoldering log near the rock fireplace. My mom forgot she left the log on the stove which proceeded to catch fire. The strange part about this was there was no way for the log to move off of the stove and land in a spot where it wouldn’t catch the rest of the house on fire. It was physically impossible. This instilled the thought that maybe the ghost wasn’t all that bad. After all, it technically saved the house from complete destruction. To this day, my family is healthy and happy, still living on the same property with no issues.

Disappearing Act

Diana Coronado

In 2015, my father passed away, and for a couple of weeks after his death, there was this constant feeling of him still being in the house. While I was sitting on my bed one day, my dog started barking uncontrollably at my bedroom door. My dog was moving from side to side and barking as if he was trying to keep something out until I yelled out, “Leave me alone!” With those words, it all stopped.

A few weeks later, while hanging with a friend, my dog started up again, this time barking at the corner of the living room. This freaked me and my friend out so much that we ended up running out of the house. The week following the incident was quiet until we ended up talking to a family friend who happens to be our pharmacist. We told her the news about my father's passing, then her face went blank. She went on to say, “That's impossible, I just filled his medications and saw him the other day when he picked up his prescription.” It was clear my father wasn't ready to let go and move on to another existence.

The last incident involved my brother while he was on Snapchat. He was sending photos back and forth to a buddy when one of his friends responded “Who's that behind you? There's a man right behind you.” the friend ended up screenshotting the image but when he looked back the image was black—no photo of any kind. My thoughts are that my father was struggling with leaving us all and didn't know how to work through it. Whether we are on earth or passing through to another existence, there are always trials and tribulations, and I believe my dad was struggling with those things.

Dual Hauntings

Mario Salice

When I was 18, my best friend passed away. For weeks, I was distraught. Then, about a month later, I was getting ready to go to sleep. It was that limbo period between sleep and consciousness when my friend came to me in spirit, saying he was okay, and that he was safe. At the same time, it could have been paranormal or just my mind healing itself. Whatever it was, I'm glad that it happened as it gave way to more positive thoughts and overall recovery from my loss.

My second paranormal experience took place back in my late teens when I was staying at a friend's house and was suddenly woken by what sounded like a child’s voice, only seconds before feeling pressure and seeing someone sitting at the end of the bed. Then, just as the figure appeared it was gone. I blocked it from my memory and pretended I was dreaming until about a month later, when I was at that same friend's house in the living room with his family. They sparked an interesting conversation that instantly made me think back to that creepy night. They were talking about how a little boy had once died in the house and every once in a while they would feel his presence. This just affirmed my encounter, only cementing the legitimacy of the situation. It was something I will never forget.

The Beast

Charles Cornell

I am an episcopal priest and usually exorcisms are reserved for the bishop. The church keeps a tight grip on that sort of thing to ensure the safety and the right treatment is conducted. I never performed an exorcism, but I did visit many homes for a “house blessing” to wash away and drown out any dark entities or spirits that were trapped.

While going about my business, I was asked to come in and do a blessing for a couple. They were in the midst of trying to sell their house and were experiencing a strange phenomenon that seemed to interfere with the selling of the property. The couple believed that a blessing would bring good fortune. Just because it wasn't an exorcism doesn't mean I didn't treat it as such. I walked throughout the house and blessed each room and sprinkled holy water about. Each time I would do a verse, there would be a tingling sensation throughout my body. It was strange. After the blessing, the house sold in two weeks—after having been on the market for nearly a year.

Another weird thing was one of my good friends, who also happens to be a priest, was renting a cabin in Plumas County, and he used to hear walking in the snow outside of his cabin. Normally that wouldn't be cause for concern, but whatever it was circled the cabin counterclockwise and would emit this horrible grunting sound. My friend knew whatever it was it had to be sinister in nature, so he conjured some holy water and walked three times clockwise around the cabin while splashing the water around and reciting “Depart this place in the name of Jesus Christ!” After that, he never had another weird experience again while he lived at the cabin. Years later, he talked to a lady that also lived in the area, and she also recalled weird tramping noises in the snow at strange hours in the night.

BY

Haunting on the ridge

Tori & Everett

Tori and Everett aren't your typical best friends. They share many things in common including their love for working at Tin Roof bakery and creating delightful dishes that are showcased throughout the deli window. Everett is the head chef at Tin Roof and makes some killer deviled eggs. Aside from the culinary love, they also share a long history of the paranormal.

road is completely pitch black. That wouldn't normally be cause for alarm, but it is almost unnatural how dark this stretch of road is. Even with a flashlight, it seems it wouldn't help in the slightest. While there may be street lamps that would usually illuminate the entire street, on Travis Road that is not the case in the slightest. There seems to be something lurking in the woods that is truly unsettling and otherworldly.

Tori’s house features large windows that allow you to look out onto the property, and on a night with a full moon, it seemed everything came alive. There was even a point living on the property where no animals would be seen, this was peculiar since Paradise has a plethora of wild animals and strays. The animals Tori did come across were not living anymore. She would constantly find dead birds on their backs with no explanation of what could have caused their passing. Bones were constantly found on the property such as skulls placed on logs and other remains scattered in bushes. It was like living on Skinwalker Ranch. It seemed that this plot of land was a hot spot for the unexplained.

In one horrifying incident, Everett’s family's goats were attacked by what everyone suspected to be a mountain lion, but the scene told a much different story—one of some bloodthirsty creature that lurked in the woods at night. Tori is a huge animal person, so when the opportunity to help a litter of stray cats literally came knocking on her door, she decided to care for them. There was a space under the porch where the kittens could lay so she took them in. Night came, and everyone went to sleep. In the morning, Tori woke to not one, not two, but all the baby kittens having passed. No marks of foul play, just passed on. What could have caused this when they were perfectly healthy a day before?

BY

The two both grew up in Paradise, just a few minutes' walk from each other, and would often find themselves in precarious situations involving some unknown force. Around the corner, not too far from the two’s homes, was an eerie roadway, just off of Sawmill and Pearson, called Travis Road. On numerous occasions, unexplained phenomena would occur down this stretch of road. At night, this

Living so close to this road, Tori and Everett were at constant odds with some unknown force—windows would blow open, things would fly off shelves—you know, typical movie stuff. The only difference was this wasn’t a movie, and you didn't get to just turn it off.

Things only continued to get stranger.

Aside from the outside unexplained phenomena, there was plenty going on indoors. On one account, Tori recalls having a sleepover with her girlfriends and seeing a poltergeist. The girls made a huge bed in the living room and were fast asleep when from behind them the computer screen lit up. They all turned their heads to see a figure sitting down in the computer chair. At the time they assumed it was one of the other girls who decided to sneak onto the computer. The situation raised no alarms until the next morning when the girls asked their friend what she was doing on the computer last night? With a confused face, the friend replied, “I wasn't on the computer. I was sleeping right next to all of you.”

Pure horror struck the girls' faces as they realized what they all had seen was perhaps not of this world.

beautiful

to engaging activities, restaurant style

more.

WRITTEN BY SHELLY BRANDON | PHOTOS BY DIANE NICOLE PHOTOGRAPHY

Better Homes and Gardens Real estate

A Culture of Giving

What if instead of finding your Realtor® through an ad in the newspaper or a Yelp review, you met them through your time at the Chico Humane Society, a veteran’s fundraiser, or at the local Rotary Club? What if this connection could happen more organically, like a connection created through shared community interests? These are the types of relationships that Cindy Haskett and Evie Feldman of Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate are hoping to foster at all four of their realty offices.

Both Cindy and Evie went into real estate for similar reasons, mainly wanting a career that allowed them time to raise their children.

Evie shares, “It was one of the only ways you could earn and parent at the same time. It allowed an acceptable balance between those two.” As their careers progressed, they moved from working together at a franchised brokerage to an independent office Cindy had opened in Paradise. Later, they were sought out by Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate to run their franchises

here in the Northstate. They now have offices in Paradise, Magalia, Oroville, and Chico. Cindy has lived in Butte County her entire life. “It’s just home,” she says. She loves the community and the hometown values, “It’s a beautiful place with creeks, lakes, and mountains, and it has so much to offer.” Evie says, “I didn’t grow up in the county, but moving here was easy.” She talks about how welcoming the community is for new people, perhaps owing to the fact that it’s a university town used to new

faces, so there was never any barrier to acceptance. “They’re ready for you to come in, and I’ve never lived in a town like that.”

Their love for their community is what drives them. Operations Manager Krissy Farrara says that Evie and Cindy are very open, caring, and supportive to a level not often experienced in business. She says, “They are like this not because that’s how they are supposed to act but because that’s just who they are as people; they don’t know how to be any other way.” Your agent should really care about you and your needs. Whether you’re buying or selling, it’s an extremely personal experience full of vulnerabilities. Your agent should really care about you and your needs. Cindy and Evie certainly see it that way.

They’ve worked to develop a business that allows them to give to the community in ways that matter. Evie says, “Our character has informed our actions, and our actions are what have created the business we have.” It’s the kind of business that focuses on giving back to the community in a multitude of ways. Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate is an example of real people making real changes in the community. Cindy and Evie strive to bring like-minded agents into their brokerage. They look for individuals who want to make

a difference, not just make a dollar. Evie says, “We look for givers.” As they added more agents to their brokerage, they were able to expand into other communities. This expansion allowed them to continue to give back to their original ‘hometown’ on the ridge and then support and give back to their new hometowns of Chico, Oroville, and Magalia.

Giving back takes on many forms. The business helps support local animal shelters by covering the cost of adoption and allowing their clients to adopt a pet for free. They also boast a Veterans’ Advantage program that offers cash rewards at closing for veterans when they buy or sell a home through one of their certified military relocation specialists. Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate also has a moving van that clients can use free of charge when they buy or sell a home through one of their four offices, and local charities are also welcome to make use of the van in preparing for their various events. Their agents give back to the community personally as well as through their offices. Cindy has been a member of the Paradise Chamber of Commerce, the Rotary Club, and the Salvation Army’s advisory board. Evie has served on Explore Butte County, Paradise Gem and Mineral Club, and volunteers as a docent at the Chico Observatory. Some of BHG’s other agents have volunteered with the Paradise Symphony Orchestra, various animal rescue organizations, and local veteran outreach groups. Nearly every agent at the Better Homes and Gardens office is engaged in some type of philanthropy, “Whatever is close to their heart.” Evie says, “When you have those like-minded agents, and they see what you do, and they want to do it too—there’s that additional energy that comes from people having the same ideals.”

Cindy credits her mentor, Steve Williams, as the person who encouraged her to be a giver. The idea of business tithing is that you give back to the community that gives to you. Their Halloween Welcome Home Trick or Treat is how this culture of giving back through business began seven years ago in Paradise. At that time, there weren’t a lot of walkable trick-or-treat neighborhoods in Paradise due to lack of sidewalks and street lights. Cindy decided to host the event at the Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate office, making sure to

have it early enough so that families could do something at home afterwards if they desired, but late enough so parents were able to get off work and bring the children in for treats. Office windows were blacked out to create the nighttime, along with a slightly spooky atmosphere complete with orange and purple lights with plenty of Halloween decor. The 2,700 square foot location with 14 offices became a Halloween wonderland. Agents and volunteers from the Gold Nugget Museum, Rotary Club, and elsewhere would dress up in festive costumes to entertain the community children in a safe environment. Cindy and Evie had been doing it for so long that when the pandemic hit two years ago, they didn’t want to abandon this tradition. “We wanted to keep that thread going for the Paradise community. For Paradise, that sense of continuity has a different meaning that others might not understand. To give up was admitting defeat. We had to keep it going for them.” So, they merely switched gears and shifted to a drive-thru trick-or-treat in order to continue the tradition and keep that thread in play. This year marks the seventhannual Better Homes and Gardens Trick or Treat for Paradise, the second for Chico, and the first for Oroville. Both Paradise and Oroville offices will have a drive-thru only while Chico will host a drive-thru as well as an indoor trick-or-treat event. The Chico event will have a face painter, candy for the kids, and coupons from local sweet treat businesses for the accompanying adults. Cindy and Evie have invited all the other businesses in the 5th & Mangrove Avenues complex to participate in the event as well.

One of Cindy’s favorite books is The Go-Giver: A Little Story About a Powerful Business Idea by Bob Burg and John David Mann. He says, “Go looking for the best in people, and you’ll be amazed at how much talent, ingenuity, empathy and goodwill you’ll find.” That’s exactly what Cindy and Evie have done, and what they continue to do, as they bring in more givers to join one of the Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate branches.

Be sure to stop by their Chico office at 1600 Mangrove Suite 100 for a spooktacular good time this Halloween and see what Cindy and Evie’s culture of giving is all about. You can also reach them by phone at (530) 961-3400.

Mangrove

Chico CA 95926

Center Street, Paradise CA 95969

Downer Street, Oroville CA 95965

Skyway, Magalia CA 95954

BY BEAU

Jodi Foster grew up in Montana, but always had her sights set on leaving for places unknown. As a single mother, she lived a modest life at her own mother’s house, a blessing she didn’t take lightly, as her mother also helped care for Jodi’s young daughter, Hannah. As with so many, the promise of a new life in the Golden State beckoned to Jodi, and she discovered Chico to be the ideal place to raise Hannah. Having extended family in the area, she knew the move would also afford her the support network she needed to lessen the strain resulting from such a large life decision.

Jodi arrived in Chico in 1999 and set out house hunting. It wasn’t long before she found a cute apartment complex near the Chico DMV on Cohasset Road, and one conversation with the apartment

The apartment

manager was all she needed to know the location was just what she needed. Unfortunately, the complex itself only had vacancy in an upstairs unit, which was both an inconvenience and potential hazard considering her small child. As vacant units were difficult to find, she decided to take the unit and child-proof it as best she could.

To her luck, a unit below her quickly opened as she began to settle in upstairs. The downstairs tenant seemed to have moved out in a rush though, almost a frenzy. In fact, they left nearly everything except for a few personal belongings. It all seemed a bit strange, but Jodi tried not to think much about it as there were plenty of other things to worry about. She was just happy she wouldn’t have to consider the potential hazards of the upstairs unit anymore. Before she knew it, she was excitedly beginning

another move to her new downstairs apartment.

Jodi was aided in the move downstairs by her good friend Idie who immediately felt something was wrong with the new space.

Jodi sensed her discomfort and asked, “What’s wrong?” Idie responded, “I’m not sure, but there’s just something off about this apartment. It’s weird. I liked the upstairs one better, and I honestly think you should move back there.” Knowing what Jodi already knew of the upstairs unit, she didn’t think much of the suggestion, and continued with the move. However, she would soon learn this would be advice she should have taken.

Later in the evening, Jodi and her daughter were visiting in the kitchen area near the sliding glass door when Hannah exclaimed,

“Hi!” Jodi heard her excited voice and turned around. “Hi?” She asked, “Who were you just talking to?” Hannah replied, “The lady over there! C'mon, Mom, you don't see her?” Jodi looked around, but seeing nothing, chalked it up to Hannah seeking attention through an imaginary friend. As the day passed, Hannah had the experience again and again, doing her best to convince Jodi she was indeed seeing someone else in the apartment. Though concerning, Jodi again dismissed it without cause for alarm, and the two readied for bed.

Dreams are meant to be pleasantly filled with desires, wants, needs, and perhaps love, but Jodi didn't receive anything like it at her new apartment. That first night, her dreams took her back in time to a scene of a man and woman patrolling the grounds of her apartment. In her dream, she could only see the outlines of the figures and partially what they were wearing—clothing reminiscent of styles from the 1970s. The figures just walked back and forth along the fence line, but there seemed to be something sinister about how they crept

and gazed upon the apartments. Jodi awoke suddenly to the clock showing 3:37 AM.

The dream was so vivid, Jodi felt as if she didn’t sleep at all that night, but rather had been living a life in a parallel universe. She fell back asleep, but when she woke up again later that morning, she did so with unease, knowing the day would soon give way to the night, and she had an eerie feeling she would be visited by the strangers once again.

When she finally closed her eyes that evening, she found herself right back in the same dream—unsurprising, as it had haunted her thoughts throughout the day. This time, the dream had more detail—she could see clearer outlines of the outfits and the belt the strange man wore which shone a large “H” on the buckle. It seemed as if the dreams were trying to guide Jodi somewhere, or to a moment lost in time. She awoke suddenly once again to the clock showing 3:37 AM. This time, however, all of the lights in her home were on.

Shooting out of bed, Jodi quickly checked to see what was going on, but nothing could be found out of place. In a daze at the early hour, Jodi shut off the lights and returned to bed hoping to get something that resembled decent sleep.

When morning finally arrived, Jodi and Hannah started their normal morning routine, but Jodi realized things were indeed out of place—shoes had been moved, cabinets were open, and silverware was scattered about. Neat and tidy, Jodi was always well aware if anything was out of place. Between the strange dreams, the ghostly figures she was watching within them, little Hannah having an imaginary friend, and now the physical disarray, the whole thing was finally starting to sound an alarm. At the same time, she thought to herself, “What do you tell someone? You're being haunted by a ghost, and you and your daughter both see it? Well, that's certainly one way to get you institutionalized.”

As days passed, the experiences only became more intense. Cupboards were opening and closing regularly, and you could often hear footsteps where no one was. Ready to start looking for help, but needing some reassurance that she wasn't losing her marbles, Jodi asked her friend Misty to stay over for a night. Not wanting to scare her friend, Jodi left out the part about there possibly being a poltergeist in the house. That night, Misty, Hannah, and Jodi all settled in and readied themselves for bed.

There is a detail that deserves mentioning before the next part of this story—Misty is completely deaf, so any “bumps in the night” would surely pass her right by. That night, to Mistry’s surprise, all of the lights in the apartment went on simultaneously. She rushed to Jodi's room, frantically signaling something was wrong. Jodi attempted to calm Misty and explained she didn’t know why it was happening, but that it had been a regular occurrence. After much deliberation and exhaustion, the two decided to once again go back to bed.

The next night, things reached a fever pitch. The dreams Jodi had been having were finally laid bare. No longer was there just a man and woman stalking the grounds, but now she could see a younger woman, perhaps between 18-20 years of age, saying

Jodi's daughter, Hannah.

something. She couldn't quite make out the words, but peered more intently until the contours and movement of her lips became more clear. Was she saying, “Help me?” The lips repeated themselves and became clearer each time, “Help me, help me, help me.” Finally, with emotion visible on the young woman’s face, she shrieked, “HELP ME!” Jodi suddenly awoke to lights on throughout the house. The time on the clock? 3:37 AM.

Jodi finally had enough. Without a good night’s rest in nearly a week and so many nights filled with terror, she found herself in desperate need of answers. Wanting to start at the most logical place, Jodi called the maintenance manager to check out the electrical wiring. The man found nothing wrong but replaced a few bulbs and switches for peace of mind. Jodi decided to give it another shot. Misty would be staying over again as she was just as curious about the ongoing events at the apartment. Neither of them could have predicted what was to follow.

Like all nights before, Hannah was tucked in first before everyone tried to get some rest. This night was different though. Jodi's dreams were extremely detailed with numbers, phrases, and random dates coming to her like a constant flow of data. She saw 35.67 miles and A-17, along with other phrases as well. The dream once again portrayed the young woman, but now it seemed she was fighting off abductors— upon a more focused gaze, they were the same people originally stalking the grounds. This time, they were taking the young woman. With the last glimpse that Jodi could ascertain in the dream, the young girl let out her final words, “PLEASE HELP ME.”

Jodi awoke. The lights were again on in the house, and the clock displayed the same 3:37 AM. The cupboards were open, and her house was in complete disarray. Misty woke to the same, and quickly flew off the handle alongside Jodi. Hannah, on the other hand, didn't know why her new friend was causing a frenzy in the house.

The trio ran to the manager's office and exclaimed something weird was going on in the apartment, and they refused to go back. The manager set out to check the grounds with her small toy poodle in hand. While walking up to the apartment, her dog leapt

from her arms and bolted inside and around the corner. Everyone followed to find the dog barking hysterically at the corner of the room. To everyone's horror, the telephone wire was aggressively swinging like a jump rope from above, as if it would hit anyone in the near vicinity. Thoroughly spooked, everyone ran from the apartment.

In an attempt to gather her thoughts, Jodi pulled up a chair next to the complex’s outdoor swimming pool and sat down. An old man appeared from nowhere walking his dog, and seeing Jodi was in distress asked, “Are you okay?” Not being able to hold it in any longer, Jodi yelled, “NO! There is something horrible inside that apartment, and weird things keep happening!” The old man took a deep breath and shared, “I’ve lived in the complex for over 20 years. People never stay in that unit for more than a couple months.” In Jodi's case, it had only been three weeks. The old man spoke of a story where a young college student went missing from the apartment decades ago and was rumored to have been abducted by a couple who lived in Red Bluff. Jodi’s mind raced, and she quickly asked the man more questions, but that was all he knew. He apologized for not being more helpful and went on his way.

Refusing to stay another night in that apartment, the complex manager offered to move Jodi to a unit in the Downtown

Chico area as long as she kept this situation to herself. Wanting to leave the whole experience behind, Jodi obliged. After settling into her new place and finally getting a good night's rest, Jodi found the time needed to reflect on the happenings and what to make of it. Years passed, but she couldn't shake the experience. Wanting more answers to the so-called abduction and this couple from Red Bluff, Jodi felt compelled to delve deeper She picked up the phone and made a crucial call. The conversation that followed would change Jodi's life and the people on the other end forever.

Jodi called the Red Bluff police department and asked if they had any reports of an abduction that took place in the 1970s involving a couple and a young woman from Chico. The lady on the other end responded puzzled, “Why are you calling today? What is the reason for this call?” Not knowing the right or wrong thing to say, Jodi exclaimed, “I just had a feeling I should call you guys, and I may have some information that could be beneficial to the investigation.” She had no idea just how big of a break this would end up being. One of the lieutenants arrived on the line and said, “I have never been so freaked out before. We were just getting ready to close the case today as it has been dead for many years without a single break, and here you are calling when all hope seemed lost.” Jodi was happy

Chico Enterprise Record article on Marie's disappearance

to be of service, but this all had been so otherworldly it was hard for her to even believe that what she dreamed about was somehow applicable in real life.

Before she knew it, the FBI had arrived in town and was interviewing her to try and get as much information as they possibly could. They had Jodi sketch pictures, write down every phrase or number that crossed her mind, and made her relive those horrendous three weeks in hopes of finding a clue. Jodi remembered, “To relive those three weeks was nothing compared to what that young woman had endured so many years prior. I was just happy to help.” At the end of the FBI interview, the agent looked at Jodi with eyes of endearment and said, “Thank you so much.” At the time, Jodi didn't know what to think exactly but was thankful the haunting she went through wasn't for nothing.

The couple in Jodi’s dreams were indeed real, as was the young lady who was pleading for help. Janice Hooker testified that in 1976, she and her husband stalked and preyed on 19-year-old Marie Elizabeth Spannhake. They abducted her from her apartment in Chico, the same apartment Jodi shortly resided in, and held her captive in Red Bluff. The telephone cord swinging from the ceiling in the apartment had

relevance as well, as the couple hung her from their basement rafters before burying her body near Lassen National Park. Marie’s body was never found. The two then went on to commit the high-profile kidnapping of Colleen Stan, the following year, also in Northern California. Cameron and Janice held Colleen hostage in their home, imprisoned in a box, for seven years before she made what many FBI agents regard as one of the most daring escapes ever. They also consider her story to be unparalleled in FBI history. The crime has since been portrayed in film, print, and on countless podcasts as “The Girl in The Box.”

Cameron Hooker was convicted in 1985 and sentenced to 104 years in prison for the kidnapping of Colleen Stan and his subsequent crimes thereafter. Though, due to lack of sufficient evidence beyond his wife’s testimony, never stood trial for the kidnapping and murder of Marie Elizabeth Spannhake. He has served decades in prison for Colleen Stan’s kidnapping, but was again made eligible for parole in 2020 as a result of changes due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Tehama County District Attorney Matt Rogers is actively working to make sure that doesn’t happen.

Cameron Hooker’s spouse, Janice, was set

free due to the mental manipulation and physical duress she underwent over her years with Cameron.

The paranormal is out there, and though some may not believe it, this story certainly suggests it could be as real as the paper you hold in your hands. Spirits and past lives live on through all of us and often are in search of peace, justice, or simply the ability to move beyond unimaginable trauma. Look around and observe as you may be able to help provide just that. Things are often not as they seem.

Though there are plenty of stories throughout this issue regarding tales of ghosts, ghouls, and more, Cameron Hooker is a real life monster. If you feel impacted by this story, reach out to the Tehama County district attorney at (530) 527-3053 and show your support for keeping him locked away for the rest of his life.

Jodi is republishing her book, A Haunting in Chico, Secrets, Sex Slaves, Murder, which will be re-released at the end of October. Do a quick Google search for more information on Marie Spannhake and Colleen Stan. Both of their stories are simply astounding, with Colleen's being the most well-documented as The Girl in the Box.

Reflections

Mandi Wilson

A few years back, in high school, I had this dream that really stuck with me and has never left. I was locked in a room that was enclosed with mirrors, and in the reflection was me but I looked different. It was me but at the same time I had no clue who the person was, I was looking at a pale, eyes blacked out, completely soulless version of myself. She told me, “I've come back to see you,” and started to laugh very ominously. Everything went static, and I passed out only to wake to her laughing in my face. Then I awoke again, completely shaken up and decided to clear my head by taking a shower. That's when I heard the blood chilling laugh of my own voice coming from outside the shower and slowly faded off. To this day, I believe something not from this world came to visit me that night.

Family Ties

Audrey Howes

My ghost story takes place in Porterville where my grandmother grew up. My family is very close, and they all lived on one street—cousins, aunts, uncles, grandparents—the whole family. The day of the encounter, we were moving furniture out from my great grandmother's house. My mom and I were moving the bed frame out when I got the feeling I was being stared at. I looked behind to see my great grandmother's ghost standing where her bed used to be, just staring at us with a saddened expression. This continued to happen throughout the day while moving her stuff out. It was clear she wasn't ready to completely let go yet.

My second story also takes place in Porterville, except this one involves my late uncle and his house. All of the properties were near the water, but my uncle's place was the closest, and from the beach you could see his house. While I was down at the beach with my parents, we all had that same feeling when we saw Grandma's ghost—that tingling feeling on the back of your neck. When we all turned around, we gasped as we saw the ghostly figures of my grandmother and uncle looking down at us. My family believed it was their way of letting us know they were okay and at peace.

The Little Boy Cherie Krantz

To fully understand the story, you have to get an idea about the layout of my childhood house. As you walked into the home and turned right, you would enter the living room with a little tea cart where my mom kept the coasters and other glassware. As you made your way through the living room, you were met with a big wall separating the kitchen from the living room.

I was home alone one day, or so I thought, until I heard my mom talking to me. I called out to her and walked into the living room, and it was empty, so I continued to walk around and never found anyone. I decided to forget about it and go finish my schoolwork in the living room. That's when something happened that I can't explain to this day. The tea cabinets opened and closed and their movement was followed by rhythmic stepping coming towards me which suddenly stopped a few paces away.

I tried to block the whole thing from my mind until one of my friends came over one day. While we were hanging out, she said, "Who’s the little boy over there?" I hesitated and said, "What little boy?" She responded, “Yeah, there's just a little boy over there on the stairs listening to us.” The days following the incident were only met with more strange interactions, I finally had to tell whatever it was to leave me alone, and it did, thankfully.

The Unexplained Sadie Pressman

I'm originally from Chico but recently moved to Nashville. While road tripping and moving stuff over, my friend and I had an eerie encounter with what we think was a UFO. We were driving through Joshua Tree National Forest when we saw in the distance what looked like a saucer and five different orb type objects. Just as they appeared, they vanished. It's extremely interesting because most UFO sightings and other phenomena take place in areas of vast wilderness. It was truly a sight to see.

Inescapable D’artanion Markowski

This paranormal encounter happened years ago when I was about 14 or 15 years old. My family had just moved out to the boonies on this big property near Lower Lake. I only had one encounter, but it was disturbing nonetheless. I was home alone when I heard the faint noise of talking and music being played. Thinking my family must've gotten home early, I went and checked the house. To my dismay, there was no one there. The music and strange sounds continued to play. I couldn't track the noise to a certain area nor did the music get more loud or quiet, it constantly stayed the same volume, almost as if the sound was coming from inside the walls and following me around the house. I never felt in danger, but I was on my toes whenever I was alone in that house.

Energy Maria Ferreyra

I have a group of friends that are really fascinated by UFOs, aliens, and all things extraterrestrial, so we often find ourselves going out and actively trying to communicate or possibly see something out of the ordinary. My friends believe aliens are benevolent beings and are just different versions of us from different places in the galaxy— essentially our souls live through many different dimensions and possibly it's just humans from another point in time. There's been some instances where my friends have seen mysterious orbs of lights in the sky dancing about, but for me I haven't had the pleasure of seeing anything yet.

Caffeinated Chatter

Have you ever encountered a ghost?

Casey-Anne Evans

When I was around 6 or 7 years old, I was just relaxing on my bed in the eve ning, waiting for one of my parents to come read me a bedtime story. My door was open at the time, and I could direct ly see my sister's room as well as the stairwell. While looking out, I saw this tall slender being that I often compare to the folklore “Slender Man.” It had an old man's face and casually walked down the stairs while looking and smiling at me. It's hard to say whether it was truly a ghost or perhaps sleep paralysis and the inbetween stage of sleep and conscious ness. There is one thing for certain, I will never forget his terrifying gaze.

Forrest Melton

Years ago, me and a group of friends were hanging out, and like most friends, we found ourselves seeking out some sort of thrill. This was when one of my friends suggested “table tipping,” which was similar to the Ouija Board game but does not require a board. All the par ticipants have to do is put their hands on the table while the person in charge brings in whatever spirit will answer, and the table will tilt or shake for yes or no. Throughout the game, the table would move completely on its own, and at one point even levitated. Noth ing super creepy happened, but it was intriguing to see something supernatural firsthand.

Rolling in

D'Emilios

We braved the line on Day One at D’Emilio’s, a project that we’ve watched come to life over the past month or so as our office resides across the street. It was beyond worth it. More than fresh paint and a lovely hand-painted sign from LeAnn Cooley of Signs and Graphic Designs, the shop boasts new decor and expanded open seating. It’s also home to a new refrigerated deli case that faces you as you walk in the new brick-red doorway. Owner Kaelen Davis explains that the space had nothing to do with the other shop of the previous name, and so, after purchasing the shop, decided to rebrand using his grandmother's maiden name, bringing something new to Downtown Chico.

Every great sandwich starts with a great loaf of bread. The onion roll is airy, thin enough to not feel like you’re eating more bread than meat, and firm enough to stay solid. I had the Lucchese, an opera of spicy salami, soppressata, and provolone with pepperoncinis and sundried tomato. The oil and juice from the tomato and peppers, the olive oil finish, and the mustard and mayo spread could have done an inferior loaf

in (make no mistake, however, you will not want to eat this over your lap). This loaf, however, is a quality, abled bread baked in a facility that will supply other downtown eateries, creating an operation that promotes synergy. The sandwich is amazing—a rich and smooth flavor from the sun-dried tomatoes compliments the freshly-sliced meat, cut to each sandwich's order. Paper-thin onion adds flavor without the snappy texture that the peppers offer, while the tomato and lettuce complete the vegetable/protein harmony of each bite. It's important to note the sandwich shown above is the Columbo (#9 for those who like to order by numbers). Unfortunately, mine didn't last long enough to photograph.

There’s so much more to come in this place: more decor, a fully-stocked main case, and a second case we passed while in line are sure to contain something new we know you’ll love. Perhaps their fresh baked bread on full display available in a wide array of offerings? Go in and check it out for yourselves. As always, when enjoying this or any new place, be prepared to take a little time… and give a little grace. Salute!

WRITTEN

the Dough

Spiteri's Delicatessan

BY JASON CORONA

Most every social person has their hang out, their spot where the people and things are so familiar, they create a comfort inside you that puts you in your element. Such is Spiteri’s, a Cheersish lunchtime favorite and gathering place for over four decades of people of the town expecting quality food and service. Walking in, you’ll be delightfully overwhelmed with a wide assortment of options. It’s not just the meats, cheeses, and additional options that create an expansive list—one could walk in for a sandwich and walk out with that, as well impulsively decided upon dill deviled-egg potato salad, lasagna, meatballs, and a bright fruit salad. They are the epitome of the community hangout delicatessen— the local memorabilia adorning the walls, and the open seating where friends can mingle with others are proof of it.

Spiteri's has some damn good sandwiches, I really wanted to try something we hadn't had before. The Reuben did not disappoint with its deliberate distinguishing features prominently displayed. The gorgeous marbled rye is tender yet thick-crusted, exposing cracked caraway seeds and

its deceptively colored cocoa swirl. The first bite reveals layer upon layer of corned beef. Resting below is a bed of sauerkraut with a sheet of swiss cheese, while Thousand Island and a tangy Dijon coat the bottom and top slices respectively. A mild saltiness and acidity, the overall experience is fresh and honest. The Reuben is a straightforward sandwich without frills, but the unmistakable quality is what sets theirs at the head of the pack.

Need a side to go with your favorite sandwich? They have you covered. As mentioned above, the potato and pasta salads, not to overlook their fresh green salads, are among the 30 or so other items in their cold case. You’d need to use panoramic mode to take a photo of the whole spread. Additionally, they have a wall of chips that completes their ordering corridor. Their huge assortment of refreshments range from fountain drinks to cold Sierra Nevada and four refrigerators of alcoholic and non-alcoholic bottles and cans. Whether inside at the checkered tables or on their large shaded patio, lunch and some new friends await at Spiteri’s.

The ghost & the reaper

Back when there was a certain wings and pizza joint in town, they offered a hot wing challenge, the After Dash, which weighed in at 150,000 Scoville Units. A Scoville Unit is a unit of heat measured on the Scoville Scale invented by Wilbur Scoville in 1912. It is based on the concentration of capsaicinoids, of which capsaicin is the predominant compound.

Remember that heat rating above? 150,000+ units. Well, that is barely a heat ripple on the peppers included below. The Carolina Reaper is rated at 1,500,000+ Scoville Units. That is what is in law-enforcement-grade pepper spray. The ghost pepper is rated at 750,000 to 1,500,000 units. Considering the most “popular” pepper consumed is the Jalapeno, at 2,500 to 10,000 units, why, that’s practically baby food!

As you may know, there was a popular challenge going around called The One Chip Challenge. It’s a Paqui brand chip coated in flavoring made from the Trinidad Scorpion Butch T (who knew!) pepper that comes in at 1,463,700 Scoville Units. I have seen the results of this challenge, and it is not pretty. Also, it can be dangerous and has sent people to the hospital, so don’t do it! If you want to

get a laugh, watch some chip challenge results on YouTube. Bring some milk!

My son took the challenge about a year ago. It definitely was not pretty! He felt light-headed, his mouth was a burning pit from hell, and he tried to gag out the chip after 10 seconds. But he didn’t. And while he had plenty of milk on hand, the heat did not abate after he chugged a glass or two. Neither did the profanity he directed at his girlfriend who recorded the event and talked him into it. (I have to admit I ordered the chip.) Helpful tip: As bad as the chip is going down, it’s nearly as bad coming out!

Back to that After Dash wing challenge. I went to a party where I brought about five dozen wings. Included among them were six After Dash wings. I told the people at the party and asked who wanted to try one out. Four people agreed and one guy actually ate two! We were all very impressed. Now the funny part: Later, MB went to the bathroom to urinate. Sadly, he forgot to wash his hands before he went. Cue to five minutes later when he began to feel the burn down below! He thought he might have to jump in the swimming pool to put that fire out.

WRITTEN BY TIM MILHORN

OCTOBER

AOIFE O’DONOVAN THE PRINCESS BRIDE QUARTETO NUEVO

NOVEMBER

LYLE LOVETT and JOHN HIATT

LAS CAFETERAS: HASTA LA MUERTE A Day of the Dead Celebration

DECEMBER

TOMMY EMMANUEL, CGP, with Mike Dawes

THE MAVERICKS with special guest

JD McPherson: Very Merry Christmas Tour

NOCHEBUENA: A Christmas Spectacular

JANUARY

JAZZ AT LINCOLN CENTER: Songs We Love

FEBRUARY

CHICO COMMUNITY BALLET: Sleeping Beauty

PILOBOLUS BIG FIVE-OH!

NEIL BERG’S 50 Years of Rock & Roll

TREELOGY: A Musical Portrait of California’s Redwood, Sequoia and Joshua Trees

MARCH

TAKE ME TO THE RIVER: NOLA LIVE!

Dumpstaphunk, George Porter Jr. & Jon Cleary

PINK MARTINI featuring China Forbes

LOS LOBOS with special guest Gaby Moreno

BANFF MOUNTAIN FILM FESTIVAL

APRIL

THI BUI: THE BEST WE COULD

THE BALOURDET QUARTET

MASTERWORKS

THE FOUR SEASONS

Guest soloist Chee Yun, violin

A musical journey through the seasons pairing Vivaldi’s classical piece with a more stylized version by Piazzolla.

PROGRAM:

PIAZZOLLA

VIVALDI

Four Seasons of Buenos Aires

Four Seasons

Saturday, Nov. 12 | 7:30 p.m. | Cascade Theater, Redding Sunday, Nov. 13 | 2:00 p.m. | Laxson Auditorium, Chico

Princess

Scott Seaton

Have I told you lately

When you listen to Lorna Such sing, you hear it immediately—she owns her voice. It is unmistakably hers whether she’s belting out blues, crooning a romantic number, or grooving along to a funk-infused beat. Lorna’s vocal and songwriting skills are beautifully displayed on her new EP, Have I Told You Lately, a compilation of six new tracks. The title comes from the question her mom always asked her and ended with “...that I love you?”

Lorna is grateful to her parents for introducing her to music, beginning with piano at age seven when they lived in Swaziland. She’s grateful for the vibrant and versatile Chico music scene and to the contributors on her EP. “I’m so grateful to all the musicians who helped me with my music. They brought it all to life,” said Lorna.

Held in particular esteem is Ethan Swett, local musician, bandmate, and producer. “Ethan is my right-hand man,” said Lorna. “He played bass and guitar on the EP and produced it. He created tracks that brought out more depth than I had imagined.”

After Lorna began writing songs for the EP, she began thinking of the musicians she would invite to perform on the album. Eventually, she came up with a very talented group of people. “What I like about the music scene in Chico is the versatility of musicians,” she said. What is difficult, however, was choosing the who, because there are so many local quality performers.

Credits for the EP go to Lorna Such,

keyboard and lead vocals; Ethan Swett, bass guitar and percussion; Sean Raeside, drums; Samaria, backup vocals; Baynayah McConnell, guitar; Shigemi Minetaka, keyboards; Webster Moore, keyboards; and Aman Cowell, trumpet. The cover artwork is by Acacia Blue Yashinsky.

Have I Told You Lately is the current culmination of a music career that began at 16 when Lorna performed at an open mic night. Along the way, she has worked with many musicians and is now a part of the group Lo and Behold. The group has played in many venues in Chico but recently played at The Torch Club in Sacramento, opening for Chico’s Smokey the Groove. In May, they shared billing with The Gold Souls at Argus in Chico, and they appeared at the El Rey Theater with Surrogate and Pat Hull. That’s where the new Lorna Such group will play on November 19.

Lorna’s goal is to continue to expand to other NorCal venues so people outside the area can hear her music. One of the benefits in playing venues outside of Chico is that the band gets to play in front of “new” people. “It’s always rewarding to play in front of local crowds where people have heard us, but it’s cool to play out of town and have people come up and tell us how great our music is,” said Lorna.

The real treat is to hear Lorna sing live, but buying her EP will get you close. Her music is available on all the major platforms: Spotify, Apple iTunes, and YouTube. Check it out!

BY TIM MILHORN

PHOTO BY KEN PORDES

future entrepreneur

Riley McGaugh possesses all the attributes of a future entrepreneur. She’s highly intelligent, self-motivated, widely read, and has already received an award at the local Biz Kids program held in August. She was one of the top six placewinners and earned a cash prize of $150.00, of which $95.15 was pure profit. Riley created Riley’s Re-Marks, a collection of artfully decorated book marks. “Biz Kids helped me learn about customer service and explaining things to people,” she said.

While becoming a business owner in the future—Books and Baked Goods being an idea—she has plenty of other interests. She loves free writing and reading— currently Lion Down by Stuart Gibbs. Riley also enjoys the Warrior Cats book series and history, general fiction, and fantasy novels. She has a lot to choose from because this sixth grader reads at a high school level.

Her former teacher, Jamie Coobs at Emma Wilson, had this to say: “I had the pleasure of being Riley’s teacher. Riley is an exceptional student. She was not only extremely bright, but she was

highly creative and artistic.” Her artistic flair is evident in the 7’ by 32’ mural on one of the classroom exterior walls. She entered the school contest, won it, and painted the mural herself.

But, as is the case of every grammar school student who’s been chosen as a Cool Kid this year, Riley also has another defining factor, according to Coombs. “More importantly, Riley is one of the most caring, conscientious, and kind-hearted students I’ve ever had. Riley has made a large impact in our classrooms and on campus.”

Riley is looking forward to attending Chico Junior High, where she’s enrolled in honors English, honors science, honors social science, and in leadership. She’s also a little apprehensive. “I’m going from the top of the school chain to the bottom!” The schedule at Chico Junior has changed this year, and sixth graders will have different lunch times than the seventh and eighth graders, and that will make things easier on the younger kids.

Outside of school, Riley played softball for the first time, and as fortune would have it, she played for the Lady Tigers who won the league. Some of her teammates went on to play for the highly successful all-star team who went to the Little League State Championship. “I felt good at the end of the season because I did end up getting a few hits,” she said.

Riley’s mom and dad, Jerod Spini and Allie Spini McGaugh, are very proud of their daughter. “During Covid, Riley would get up at 5:30am and head to the computer for distance learning. I’d have to tell her no one was up that early so she’d have to wait,” said Allie. Riley’s school experience can be summed up by the fact she’s never received a detention or citation. Now that is dedication.

WRITTEN BY TIM MILHORN