Upgraded Living - October 2023

SKIN EXAMS MOLE CHECKS & REMOVALSECZEMA

SKIN CANCER SCREENINGS

ACNE DRY & ITCHY SKIN

BOTOX & FILLER TCA PEELS

SCHEDULE NOW

Ramneet Basra, PA-C

Kirsten Schwab, PA-C

Ann Frisius, FNP Gagan Takhar, PA-C

Board-certified dermatologist Dr. Kafele T. Hodari and his team of medical professionals at Hodari MD Dermatology comprise a comprehensive dermatology practice in Chico, Oroville, and Yuba City.

Whether you have a medical, surgical, or aesthetic concern, you'll receive personalized care from some of the most highly trained providers in the area. Our patients can feel assured that they are getting th e best, most effective care when they walk through the door. Love Your Skin ® and Improve Your Health.

Kafele T. Hodari, MD

Imelda Mata, PA-C

Marianna Almanza, PA-C Jina Bryant, FNP

FROM THE PUBLISHER

As long as I can remember, October has been my favorite month of the year. As someone who loves all things spooky, there just isn't a better month when you consider the haunted houses, jack-o-lanterns, haunted corn mazes, non-stop scary movies, and Halloween itself. Last year, I granted my wish, and we published an issue completely devoted to Northern California's hauntings and ghost stories. Though there's a part of me that would have loved to do another, there's so much more this time of year has to offer.

The transitioning weather in October brings cooler temperatures and, with it, a wealth of activities. Best of all, those activities tend to be outdoors and last longer without the threat of triple-digit temperatures. It also happens to be harvest season, and as we are blessed to live in an agricultural Mecca, you can be sure to find plenty of opportunities to experience all that harvest has to offer for yourself.

This time of year has always sparked creativity and creation, whether in art, food, or otherwise. The energy around it positively affects us all, and we wanted to use this issue to honor that. As such, we decided to dedicate the October issue to those who create—the artists, farmers, winemakers, distillers, and more who bring beauty and flavor to Northern California. As mentioned earlier, there are plenty of opportunities this month to meet those creators and sample their creations including the Downtown Chico Art & Wine Walk, Open Studios Art Tour, FarmCity Celebration, Sohnrey Family Foods Harvest Festival, Sierra Oro Farm Dinner, and so many more. We've filled the pages of this issue with spotlights on many of these individuals, their creations, and the events listed above. We hope you make time in your schedule this month to venture out and find something new to fall in love with, whether it's a work of art, a new ingredient from a local farm, or a new wine or spirit to add to your collection. You can be sure we'll be out there with all of you, exploring all this area has to offer.

UPGRADED LIVING STAFF

AVEED KHAKI Owner/Publisher

JASON CORONA Sales Director

SHELLY BRANDON Writer

TIM MILHORN Writer

MADDIE RODRIGUEZ Writer

NILS KOENIG Cover Story Photographer

ERIK BROWN Cover Design

CONTRIBUTORS

DOUG LOVE Real Estate

SWEENEY & MICHEL Finance

Aveed Khaki Owner/Publisher

COMMUNITY

Meet the providers at Hodari MD Dermatology and Rejuvené in Chico, Oroville, and Yuba City.

The Open Studios Art Tour is back, along with some of our favorite artists. Discover what makes this event a must-visit during the month of October!

The Downtown Chico Art & Wine Walk offers some of the best art, wine, and music in the Northstate, all in one easily-strollable evening downtown.

Grown with water and God's love, Erickson Farm's orange varieties will redefine your understanding of flavor.

Butte County Farm Bureau protects and promotes agriculture throughout the North Valley.

FarmCity Celebration brings the urban and agricultural communities together to honor all that agriculture brings to Northern California.

FOOD

Culligan Water offers a new system to purify well water and banish the many common contaminants it contains.

Beat inflammation and boost athletic performance with beets!

Our blood turnip and arugula salad recipe is the perfect bridge between summer and fall.

PB & Jimmy's offers eastern comfort food you're unlikely to find anywhere else in Butte County.

THE SECRET MENU

Does your favorite eatery have a secret menu? Find out in this month's secret menu covering four more of our favorite restaurants.

POTPOURRI

Get to know local artisans in October's artist profiles.

Investing for the future with Joe Sweeney and Reneé Michel.

Spooky and hilarious all at once, Doug Love regales us with another story of his life in real estate.

It's harvest season! Meet the farmers that help our community grow in this month's farmer spotlights!

Kai Music & Arts Center changes the world, and our community, with music.

Junior entrepreneur, Jazzy DeWitt, wows as this month's Cool Kid.

FEATURE

Golden Beaver Distillery delights with their new Park Avenue Still House and myriad new offerings you're sure to love. Learn about the company's history, their newest additions, and what's to come in this month's cover feature.

The Team Get to know at

Kafele T. Hodari, MD Owner & Medical Director

A San Francisco native and board-certified dermatologist, Dr. Kafele Hodari graduated from Ohio State University’s medical and business schools before completing his dermatology residency at Tulane University. There, he focused on advanced cosmetic dermatology techniques and treatments. Cosmetic dermatology’s unique combination of art and science and the ability to enhance a person’s appearance and confidence appealed to Dr. Hodari. “I’ve always known I wanted to be in healthcare.” Dr. Hodari says, “I’ve thought it was a noble profession and loved the idea of helping people. I was especially drawn to the idea of helping people feel better about themselves.” That inspiration led him to Chico, where he now practices medical and cosmetic dermatology as the owner and medical director of Hodari MD Dermatology and Rejuvené.

Dr. Hodari’s philosophy embodies the idea of "adding life to years, not just years to life." After all, what good are extra years if we aren’t enjoying and making the most of them? This philosophy has been his guiding principle in not only his practice but also in his interactions with patients, where he aims to learn what inspires them. By discovering their inspirations, he is better able to understand who they are and what they want. This in turn allows him to provide the highest quality of compassionate and advanced care, whether he’s treating a stubborn skin condition or erasing years from a patient’s appearance. It is that commitment to patient-focused care that has earned him the title of Chico’s best dermatologist year after year.

As a medical and cosmetic dermatologist, Dr. Hodari provides a large breadth of services from skin exams and cancer screenings to Botox and fillers. He takes a comprehensive approach to healthcare and the human body, believing everything is intertwined. “I feel it’s important to incorporate and address all the factors that may contribute to any given issue or concern.” Dr. Hodari says, “I enjoy the smiles, laughter, and connection that arise after inspiring people and being a part of their healthcare journey. I hope to continue this journey of listening, connecting, and helping people to embrace, improve, and love their skin!”

Besides being certified by the American Board of Dermatology, Dr. Hodari is a Castle Connolly Top Doctor, a Verified Expert Injector, and a member of both the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) and the American Academy for Dermatologic Surgery (ASDS).

Gagan Takhar, PA-C, MPH Certified Physician Assistant - Dermatology

Originally from Yuba City, Gagan was always drawn towards medicine. “I had many role models in the field that inspired me,” Gagan says, “and my own skincare journey made me passionate about dermatology. A graduate of Touro University in Vallejo, Gagan now works as a physician assistant at Hodari MD Dermatology and Rejuvené in Chico and Oroville. She provides injectables, skin care regimens/advice, and so much more, but Botox is her favorite. With a prior background in aesthetic dermatology, she brings a welcome set of skills to Hodari MD Dermatology and Rejuvené, and she enjoys staying up to date about the latest aesthetic/medical dermatology news and findings. “I am constantly learning to ensure I give patients the most up-to-date standards of care.” Gagan says, “I would love to continue growing my aesthetic dermatology skills, specifically in the area of injectables. I hope to be able to attend more cosmetic workshops and training to deliver patients the most advanced and natural cosmetic results while also practicing safety.”

Kirsten Schwab, PA-C, MPAS Certified Physician Assistant - Dermatology

A Georgia native, Kirsten Schwab is no stranger to the field of medicine. Excited about healthcare from childhood, she eventually attended and graduated from the Medical College of Georgia as a certified physician’s assistant. As a PA-C for the past 14 years, she has garnered experience in emergency medicine, trauma, oncology, and hematology which has helped her learn to understand patients and their needs on a broader level. She moved to Northern California 10 years ago and now works at Hodari MD Dermatology and Rejuvené in Chico and Oroville providing services in both medical and cosmetic dermatology, though she’s found her passion in the cosmetic side. She loves the staff and patients at both practices and says, “They are all amazing and so great to work with!” An altruist at heart, Kirsten hopes to increase her cosmetic and medical practices to reach more people in need in the community.

Marianna Almanza,

PA-C

Certified Physician Assistant - Dermatology

Marianna Almanza began working in healthcare at a young age. A native of the Chicago suburbs (Go Bulls!), she started her journey at just 16 years old. “I worked as an activities aide at a skilled nursing home, pharmacy technician at Walgreens, and X-ray technologist at Northwestern Hospital.” Marianna recounts, “I have learned so much in each position I have worked in and met amazing patients and coworkers along the way. Each position inspired me to delve more into medicine, which culminated in me becoming a physician assistant.” Marianna graduated from Western University of Health Sciences in Pomona, CA as a physician assistant, got married, and moved to Chico in 2018. She spent her first year in Northern California exploring all she could before joining the team at HodariMD Dermatology and Rejuvené. “I am all about providing top-notch medical dermatology and cosmetic services.” Marianna says, “I focus on diagnosing and treating skin conditions, including skin cancer screenings, acne management, eczema treatment, and much more. It's hard to pick a favorite because each patient and their unique journey is special to me, but if I had to choose, I'd say skin cancer screenings are vital since early detection can save lives. A close second would be surgery to remove skin cancers, lipomas, and cysts with a focus on definitive treatment with great cosmetic outcomes. Whether treating a skin condition or offering skincare advice, knowing I’ve improved someone’s quality of life is incredibly fulfilling.”

Certified Physician Assistant - Dermatology

Ramneet Basra is thrilled to be back in her hometown of Yuba City, where she is now working as a dermatology physician assistant at Hodari MD Dermatology and Rejuvené. “I always dreamed of working in medicine.” Ramneet says, “My upbringing and culture have taught me to help others whenever possible and to do so selflessly. I genuinely wanted to pursue a career in medicine where I could help people feel better and improve their lives.” At Hodari MD Dermatology and Rejuvené, she manages and treats a wide variety of dermatologic conditions including skin cancer, psoriasis, eczema, and acne. Ramneet also performs cosmetic procedures including chemical peels, botox, and injectables. “I love treating acne.” She smiles, “It is one of the most common conditions I treat and truly life-changing for my patients. I receive so much joy from helping my patients feel beautiful and confident in their skin. I love my patients. It is an honor to be able to take care of them, and I have the most amazing team and work environment. Everyone works so hard to make the office a positive environment and do what is best for our patients.”

Ramneet Basra, PA-C

Jina Bryant

Family Nurse Practitioner-Dermatology

Originally from Valencia, California, Jina transferred to Chico State and found her way back to Chico after graduate school at Sonoma State University. “I started as a CNA, and I always wanted to care for people during their hardest medical illnesses.” Jina says, “After a while, I realized I could help on a deeper level. I finished my RN degree and started in the neuro-trauma ICU and ER saving people from death and stabilizing the hardest traumas and comorbidities that rolled in. I started to realize these people suffering from severe cardiac, neuro, and respiratory diseases could be helped best if I could prevent them from becoming so unhealthy from the beginning. So, I pursued a nurse practitioner degree in the specialty of the lifespan of a human, from birth to end-of-life. I’m passionate about combining holistic therapeutics with integrated medicinal intervention.” Jina also worked as a laser nurse for three years and now uses that experience and expertise at Hodari MD Dermatology and Rejuvené in Oroville providing TCA peels, micro-needling, physician-assisted facials, and more.

Imelda Mata PA-C Certified Physician Assistant - Dermatology

Imelda Mata’s passion for dermatology and helping Chico residents is something patients see immediately. The Chico native’s commitment to patient care includes helping the area’s Spanish-speaking community overcome the language barrier and access dermatology care. Imelda’s career as a physician assistant began working for board-certified dermatologist Dr. Kafele Hodari, and she continues to provide both cosmetic and medical dermatology services at Hodari MD Dermatology and Rejuvené. Her education includes earning a master’s degree in medical science from Yale University School of Medicine. She also has a bachelor’s degree in Latin American studies and Spanish from Chico State University. At Rejuvené, Imelda helps patients understand the med spa’s comprehensive approach to aesthetics and skincare, which involves laser skin treatments and injectables such as BOTOX® Cosmetic and dermal fillers. She performs cosmetic injections and discusses daily skincare with patients. In addition to cosmetic dermatology, Imelda provides basic medical dermatology treatment for patients, including managing acne, performing skin checks, and managing other skin conditions.

A graduate of United States University in San Diego, Ann was originally a bioinformatics major who planned on working in medical research. During her studies, she realized she loved working with people and decided to shift her major towards a healthcare focus to ensure direct patient care. “I started working in healthcare 20 years ago and have been fortunate enough to work in a wide variety of practice settings, ultimately choosing dermatology as my specialty.” Ann says, “One truth I have taken away from these experiences is that every person’s experience is uniquely their own, even if the diagnosis is the same on paper. I enjoy connecting with my patients and listening to their stories. I think this helps us develop an individualistic treatment plan and truly identify their unique skin care goals as a team.” Ann now works at Hodari MD Dermatology and Rejuvené in Chico, providing both medical and cosmetic services. Her medical services include skin cancer screenings and mole checks, as well as treating a wide variety of skin concerns such as acne, rosacea, and eczema, just to name a few. She loves both medical and cosmetic services as each of these services can have a profoundly positive impact on a person’s life. “The biggest reward for me personally,” Ann says, “is to see the positive impact our practice makes on a person’s life. It is truly a gift to be able to offer hope to a new patient who may be overwhelmed by their diagnosis or see the smile on a person’s face at a follow-up appointment after they have started to see improvements in their condition.”

Photo by Hank Hansen

Ann Frisius, FNP-C

Family Nurse Practitioner - Dermatology

Geralyn Sheridan Designs

For a decade, clients have been visiting Geralyn Sheridan Designs to make rings together with its namesake creator. This design won 1st place in JCK Jewelers Choice Awards in 2013. The author's fingerprints are the background, and the lines are their story. One couple’s design was a flower and shape of the Eddy at the Sacramento River where they got married. Another client earned her master’s degree and rewarded her accomplishment with a ring revealing her story. The original design (displayed in the image) was Geralyn’s telling a general love story of two individuals with busy full lives joining as one. The busy part begins in the center, and the lifelines wrap around the back and join going off together in a new direction. A vast collection of these rings with her fingerprints are also available, the maker's mark.

geralynsheridandesigns

@geralynsheridan

www.geralynsheridan.com

1334 Mangrove Ave. Chico, CA (530) 519-GEMS (4367) Thursday—Saturday 10am—5pm

Lotus Flower Imports

Located on the outskirts of Downtown Chico, Lotus Flower Imports has been part of the community for more than 30 years. With a wide range of crystals and gems from all over the world, they often refer to their inventory as "Mother Nature’s Décor” and as such believe that everyone should reap the benefits of what our beautiful earth creates. Among the assortment of gemstones and jewelry, you will find singing bowls, beautiful statues, and works of art that will make it easy to beautify any living space or find that special gift for any occasion. It is their greatest pleasure to provide décor and jewelry that aims to amplify positive energy in your life, home, or office. They love their business and invite you and your family to come see and feel the magic.

Lotus Flower Imports @lotusflowerimports_chico

839 Main St. Chico, CA (530) 345-6783

Tues—Fri 10am—5pm | Sat—Sun 10am—4pm

Iris Natividad

An artist's escape in Paradise, Nothing But Love's exterior boasts whimsical and rustic lawn decor like fountains, feeders, and planters. Inside the bright and cheerful gallery, you'll find watercolor, photography, art glass, and ceramics among other local art. A number of local artisans' crafts, apparel, and handmade jewelry are also found throughout, and you can be sure to always find timely seasonal gifts and decor here. Wander further inside, and you'll find a nook for the home chef, including local products from Sohnrey Family Foods, Sutter Buttes, Brannen Gourmet, and Petersen Sisters. It's the perfect place to complete a day of gifting for yourself or others!

NothingButLoveParadise

@NothingButLoveParadise

6393 Skyway, Paradise (530) 353-8445

Humans touring art

We have been inexorably tied to art for tens of thousands of years. It is one of the uniquely human things about us, whether we personally create art or just enjoy seeing others’ creations. The Chico Art Center offers a rare opportunity for the community to connect with local artists and view entire collections while allowing them to experience where and how these artists create, during the Open Studios Art Tour (OSAT).

The tour is in its 34th year and debuts with an introductory show which opens on October 1st, with a reception following on October 6th. The Chico Art Center will

display a piece from each of this year's 86 participants, giving the public a taste of what they can see during the tour, which will run over the next two weekends in October; the 14th-15th and 21st-22nd from 10:00 am - 5:00 pm. Guidebooks serve as tickets for the event and can be purchased for $15 at The Center or any of the following locations: Art Etc., Chico Paper Co., Chico Chamber of Commerce, monca, Vagabond Rose, Ellis Art and Engineering, or Nothing But Love in Paradise. The books list each artist with an example photo of their work, their studio address, and other pertinent information. A map of participating studios is included in order to make it easy to plan your day, along

with a selection of restaurants nearby that will feature art to enjoy while you rest and refresh on your tour.

The Open Studios Art Tour is the primary annual fundraiser for the Chico Art Center whose mission, since its inception in 1956, has been to foster and promote the arts. Its support of local artists in the community is accomplished through exhibitions in its gallery, sales of artists’ work in the gift shop, and classroom rentals for groups or instructors. In addition, The Center hosts a variety of shows both juried and non-juried including Puzzles, Pizza My Art, Small Works, Our Home Town, Art for Seniors, Discovery

WRITTEN BY SHELLY BRANDON

Show, and many others throughout the year. These are made possible by the generous support of the public through memberships, donations, and fundraisers.

Lisa Freeman, President of the Chico Art Center, explains what a wonderful experience this is for both the artists and the community. “You get to see the artists in their own workspace, which I think has a lot of value because it validates how hard they work. Most artists work in solitude, so having people in our space is important to validate what we do.” The tour offers people the chance to get to know the artists and ask questions about their work. This way,

they can tell you more about the inspiration behind different pieces they have for sale in their studio, or some may offer firsthand demonstrations of what they do. Lisa says, “It’s always wonderful to watch and learn; it really helps you understand how and why they make their art.” The OSAT website, www.chicoosat.com, has thumbnails of each artist’s work, which will then direct you to their website to view additional artwork and information. The tour features ceramics, jewelry, watercolors, metalwork, glass, quilts, sculptures, and many other types of artistic media. The studios will have a wide range of pieces available for sale at various price points, making it the perfect

opportunity to start or add to a collection.

“It doesn’t matter whether it’s ceramic, jewelry, or stained glass—I just love to see what people can create. It’s in our bones as human beings, it really is—back from the earliest cave paintings and the shells with holes that were strung on pieces of grass. It’s part of who we are,” says Lisa.

The Chico Art Center is located at 450 Orange Street, Ste. 6 in Chico, and is open 7 days a week with free admission. Additional information on the center and OSAT can be found at www.chicoartcenter.com

The Museum of Northern California Art (monca) is beginning a very active season as it welcomes the new school year with an upcoming Driving Docent program into the schools, changing art exhibitions every two months, ongoing music and special events at the museum plus the launching of our Capital Campaign: More than a Museum - Act II. We are excited to be taking this journey to make monca even more of a community hub, a place where people want to gather.

Interested in being a volunteer at events, teaching in the schools or greeting visitors at the reception desk? Want to host an event as a fundraiser for the museum’s expansion? Need a beautiful space for a birthday party, wedding or memorial? We are here for you as you breathe in the creative arts. Visit www.monca.org or call 530.487.7272 for more information.

MuseumofNorthernCaliforniaArt @moncamuseum www.monca.org

900 Esplanade, Chico, CA (530) 487-7272

Thursday–Sunday 11am–5pm

ArtistScape

Chico Art Center, located in the Historic Depot Building on Orange Street, is the largest member art organization in Butte County. Established in 1956, it is a non-profit organization that actively supports local and regional artists and participates in many art-related events in the Chico community. The center has 10 gallery exhibitions a year, featuring local, regional, and national artists, as well as solo exhibitions, national juried, and community participation exhibitions. Admission is free, and most exhibits include an artist talk and reception. The Small Works Gift Shop is stocked with handmade items created by members including cards, prints, books, pottery, jewelry, fiber art, and paintings. There are two classrooms available to rent for art classes or workshops. The Open Studios Art Tour – OSAT is an annual fundraising event in October when artists open their studios to the public. Visitors meet artists, see demonstrations, and purchase art.

chicoartcenter

@chico_art_center

www.chicoartcenter.com

450 Orange St #6, Chico, CA (530) 895-8726

Mon–Fri 12pm–4pm | Sat–Sun 10am–4pm

Kevin Trivedi recently moved to Chico to open his studio, ArtistScape. Trivedi, known from the Sacramento art scene, excels across various painting disciplines. He grew during an apprenticeship with the late Italian painter Roberto Lupetti, enriching his foundation skills. Kevin later earned an MFA in studio painting from the esteemed Academy of Art University in San Francisco, where he discovered the path to color mastery.

“My art transforms the scenes around us into vistas of emotional energy.” Trivedi says, “I am excited to introduce my work to a new community connecting with people eager to have art created for themselves, families, or friends, to enrich their lives.” His studio, ArtistScape, is open during OSAT, where you can view his immersive landscapes and other fine art.

artistscape

@artistscape_fine_art

www.artistscape.com

75 Declaration Drive Suite 14, Chico, CA 530-603-3002

Open by Appointment Only

A perfect pairing

October offers up the ideal weather for a relaxing stroll through Downtown Chico. Pair that with a glass of local wine, beer, or spirit while exploring the works of local artists, and you have all the makings for a perfect evening in town. The Chico Art and Wine Walk is set for October 13th from 5 pm to 8 pm and corresponds with the final Friday Night Concert of the season.

This free event has downtown businesses partnering with local wineries, breweries, or distilleries while hosting area artists. Kirk Bengtson and Chris Daniels of Kirk’s Jewelry helped spearhead the month-long Art and Window Walk in 2015, and it has morphed into the annual signature event of today. Chris shares that her favorite aspect of the evening is, “opening our doors to highlight

local art and wine to the community. It is the perfect date night event.” There will be five main starting points at which you can have your ID checked and pick up your free glass, wristband, and postcardsized map indicating which businesses are participating. You can expect Chico Paper Co., Sweet Chico Confections, Kirk’s Jewelry, For Elyse, Tomfoolery, Little Red

Hen Home, Little Red Hen Vintage, Diamond W Western Wear, Hydration Happens, and other downtown stores to participate. Various musicians, painters, potters, printers, and other artisans will be featured throughout these downtown businesses. The signature store locations will serve drink tastings from assorted alcohol purveyors including Golden Beaver Distillery, British Bulldog Brewery, Gale Vineyards, Lassen Traditional Cidery, Integrity Wine, Raging Bull, Dog Creek Cellars, Sierra Nevada, and more.

Chico State’s Executive Director of Alumni Engagement Jay Friedman, says that helping host the Art and Wine Walk during Wildcat Weekend allows the university to showcase Chico State along with the entire downtown area to the alumni, prospective students, and parents. The combination of Parents Weekend, Homecoming, and Chico Preview Day provides “the perfect opportunity for us to have an added benefit for folks coming back for that weekend.”

Lucia Mercado of the Downtown Chico Business Association shares that there are many locations hosting music and other art in their space regardless of whether they’re offering alcohol tastings, so there will be so much to explore that evening. She says while the logistics associated with the planning of the event are difficult, “getting to see so many people enjoy the event is so rewarding for all of us and makes the process so worth it.”

You can find more information on this and other upcoming events at www.downtownchico.com and their Facebook page, FB.com/downtownchico.

Draw. Paint. Create! Join in the fun at Chico Creative on the adventure of your own unique artistic journey. It is a joy as a teacher to encourage both children and adults in learning and growth through creative exploration and expression.

During art classes, students spend time creating with pencil, colored pencil, watercolor, tempera paint, acrylic paint, and collage. Adults and children ages seven years and up are invited to attend weekly classes. There are also themed classes, such as pour painting, dot painting, beading suncatchers, wreath making, and art studio time. Attend on your own or sign up with friends for a relaxing, creative gathering. Please inquire about private parties, birthdays, and other events.

You are invited to visit Chico Creative at the new art studio in Downtown Chico, during the Open Studios Art Tour on October 14-15 and 21-22 from 10am-5pm.

ChicoCreativeStudio

@ChicoCreative

www.chico-creative.com

Owner & Teacher: Jessica Mae 305 Wall Street, Chico 530-213-3713

At Tanner Drake Studio, their mission is to create a sense of belonging while being a hidden veil for creativity, friendship, and supporting local art. With one step through their door, you can truly see the passion and respect for the work they do here in Chico. They always strive to raise expectations for the future of tattooing and pride themselves on being able to offer a safe and welcoming environment for tattooing in our community. They believe a tattoo is not only an amazing piece of permanent art but also a memory to last just as long. The amount of experience and divine energy that Tanner Drake Studio brings to the tattoo world is another reason why they're one of the best around!

TannerDrakeArt @tanner_drake_tattoos www.tannerdraketattoo.com

Orient & Flume Art Glass

Founded at the start of the studio glass movement, Orient & Flume has been a Chico tradition since 1972. As art glass began moving out of large factories and into smaller studios, these talented artists carved out a niche for themselves, experimenting with various styles until they eventually created their own. Now known for their crystal clear glass and torchworking, a style that was largely pioneered right here in Chico, Master Artist Bruce Sillars and the team at Orient & Flume create intricately decorated nature scenes by painting flowers and foliage directly on the surface of each piece using hot colored glass. Orient and Flume offers something for everyone, from their beautiful clear glass and classic iridescent vases and paperweights to hot sculpted glass animals, fruits, and vegetables. Their work is on display at galleries and museums worldwide, but you can stop by and see it for yourself.

orientandflume

@orient-flume-art-glass

www.orientandflume.com

2161 Park Ave, Chico 530-893-0373

Monday-Saturday, 10am-5pm

250 Vallombrosa, Ste. 560, Chico 530-965-5842

Open by Appointment Only

Tanner Drake Tattoo Studio

Champions of the Next Decade

On Wall Street, iconic team names have defined eras: the '70s boasted the "nifty fifty," the '90s went wild with the "dot-com" craze, and the 2010s were all about the mighty FAANG stocks. Now, in the 2020s, we're talking about "the Magnificent Seven."

Today, Apple, Tesla, Meta, Google, Nvidia, Microsoft, and Amazon have a staggering market cap exceeding $11 trillion. Their YTD returns have powered the S&P 500 to a 16% year-to-date surge.

But here's the twist: whispers (and blogs) assert that if these stock titans stumble, a market freefall is inevitable. Are we in for a wild rollercoaster ride?

History tells a different story. Market leadership evolves as companies adapt to the times. Some

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

companies fade into the background while others step into the spotlight. Surprisingly, many former market leaders failed to maintain their top-10 status for multiple decades. For example, when comparing the 10 largest stocks from 2000 to today, only Exxon remains. Things are always changing. Yet, during this tumultuous ride, the S&P 500 grew almost 5-fold.

The lesson? Concentration in the stock market hasn't led to certain doom in the past. In fact, it tends to be the rule more often than the exception.

As investors, the best advice we can follow is to diversify. Not only is it proven to lower portfolio volatility, but it also increases your chances of owning a piece of the next decade's champions.

This is not tax advice. | Sweeney & Michel, LLC is a Registered Investment Adviser. This brochure is solely for informational purposes. Advisory services are only offered to clients or prospective clients where Sweeney & Michel, LLC and its representatives are properly licensed or exempt from licensure. Past performance is no guarantee of future returns. Investing involves risk and possible loss of principal capital. No advice may be rendered by Sweeney & Michel, LLC unless a client service agreement is in place.

Ghost disclosure

This sweet little lady insisted I have something to eat and drink before we talked business.

“Now set yourself down right here, honey, and I’ll get you some juice and cookies,” she said. The floorboards creaked as she shuffled away. I wondered to myself when the house was built. Turn of the century, maybe.

“Nineteen and fifteen,” said the lady. I jumped an inch off my chair. “Huh?” I said.

“My daddy built this house in nineteen and fifteen,” she said.

“The doors and windows are gorgeous,” I said, “and the finish work is—”

“Now let’s get down to business,” she said.

I spread out my market analysis paperwork and began explaining the statistics. The lady sat across the table from me and stared, unblinking. Upon my conclusion, she was silent. Avoiding her piercing stare, I looked around the room and flinched at the sight of a spotted cat eyeballing me, unblinking. My knee twitched.

“I’ll ask Mama,” she announced and shuffled away down the hall.

Mama must be up there in years; this lady had to be in her eighth or ninth decade.

“Mama says you’ll do,” she said. “We’re ready to get to selling.”

I asked if her mother needed to sign the

listing documents.

“Hee-hee-hee,” she wheezed, “Mama’s been dead 20 years and more.” She stopped smiling and whispered, “But Mama visits.”

Next morning I called the California Association of Realtors Legal Hotline. “Do I need to disclose a ghost?” I asked.

“Hearsay and anecdotal comments regarding the existence of the paranormal are not within the legal guidelines of disclosure obligations,” said the attorney. “However, if your client believes apparitions of the supernatural exist upon the premises, it may be prudent for you to disclose that belief.”

I bounced my dilemma off KDV, my good old real estate mentor. “Listen, babe,” he said, “she might be nuttier than a fruit cake, but I wouldn’t be surprised if that old place is full of ghosts. Don’t make ‘em mad, bro.”

I visited the lady. “I think we need to disclose your mother’s visits.”

She laughed and wheezed. “Don’t worry, honey,” she said, “Mama’s coming with me, and we ain’t a-coming back.”

“Oh, uh, okay,” I said. “By the way, the cat is going with you, too, right?”

“Cat? Honey, I haven’t had a cat for 20 years and more.”

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

Its the diamond in the rough, and a great neighborhood !!! Needs interior painting, Flooring replaced where carpet is being pulled up. The kitchen and hallway are wood flooring. Large 3 car attached garage, one owner home!! Great opportunity!!!

Bed: 4.0 Bath: 3.0 SqFt: 2,174

Price: $580,000

Sherry is a delight to work with, and she is very responsive to the seller/buyer needs. She has extensive experience in the real estate market, in particular Chico and surrounding communities, and I would highly recommend her to anyone who is looking to buy or sell.

- Jill Townsend, Paradise

Call me today at (530) 514-4855

An Elegant Custom Estate with exquisite craftmanship, sophisticated style and timeless luxury !!! This truly one of a kind home just doesn't come available every day!! This living experience is unique in every way! When entering through the double handcrafted front doors, you will peer right into the backyard with a wall of windows, inviting all of the greenery into the home and no matter which room you are in, the natural light and parklike setting is enjoyed giving a very tranquil and peaceful feel! An entertainers delight with 16' soaring ceilings, crown molding, hand carved alabaster chandeliers imported from Spain in the dining and entry way, custom wood cabinetry and library ceiling in the office, gourmet kitchen open to the family room with 6 burner range, dual ovens, dual dishwashers, Sub-Zero refrigerator, and a built-in wet bar with 60 bottle white wine frig. In addition, there is a HUGE climate controlled red wine closet as well. The master suite is just that, fit for a king/ queen with 16' ceilings, fireplace, jetted jacuzzi tub, his & her walk in closets, imported marble tile, private entrance into backyard and outdoor shower. Enjoy the koi pond with water feature, brick walk ways that invite you to meander

enjoy this private paradise setting!

(530) 514-4855

Welcome home!!!! This charming Chico home features 3 bedroom and 1 bathroom in the main house and a 1 bedroom 1 bathroom guest home. This home is brimming with character. The large living room and dining room picture window allows natural light to flood this home. The kitchen is open and spacious with a breakfast nook. don't forget there is a wonderful front patio to enjoy your morning coffee or a glass of wine in the evening. The guest home is spacious featuring its own kitchen, living room and bedroom and bathroom with 2 large closets. This could be a great mother in law space, office or rental income! (Currently rented and fully permitted). Parking is easy with the driveway. There is a large shed out back, perfect for keeping your belongings organized. The washer and dryer are conveniently located in a designated room off of the guest house with tons more storage. This Chico charmer with a guest house is the cutest home near downtown Chico State, shopping, Enloe and Bidwell Park. Please don't disturb the tenant. Close to Hooker Oak Elementary School. Property is zoned commercial if you wanted ot run a business out of it. Buyer is advised to check on the zoning to make sure that their business would meet the zoning requirements.

Bed: 4.0 Bath: 2.0 SqFt: 1,506 Price: $450,000

Sherry Landis Real Estate, Inc.

"I would recommend Effie Khaki to absolutely anyone who is selling or purchasing a home. I have complete confidence and trust in Effie's professionalism, expertise, and commitment to all of her clients. I purchased and sold my first home with her over the last 5 years. Effie will always exceed your highest expectations."

-Jenifer Crawford

Located on a private cul-de-sac, this Paradise lot was once home to an elegant residence. Still remaining are the beautiful wrought iron entry gate with its brickwork, a pond, paved driveway etc. The property is connected to PID water and condition of septic is unknown to seller. Buyer to investigate.

Acres: 1.02 Price: $55,000

Situated in a wonderful neighborhood in lower Paradise with an easy commute to Chico, this amazing property once held a 2 bedroom, 2 bath, 1370 sqft home with a 2 car garage. The previous home was on PID water, septic tank and had natural gas. The seller does not have information about the condition of the septic tank. Buyer to investigate. Price: $39,500

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: $49,900

Nested in the coveted Chico Avenues, this picture perfect residence is just blocks away from Enloe hospital, CSUC, and downtown. The building consists of 2 units and allows you the opportunity of living in one and renting the other, if you desire. Both units offer an open floor plan, large dual pane windows for ample natural lighting, and fully equipped kitchens (each with gas stove/oven, microwave, refrigerator, dishwasher, and garbage disposal).

Additionally, these units boast central heat/air, darling quaint yards, and each with its own 2 car garage which are equipped with washers and dryers. Unit 493 offers 3 bedrooms and 2.5 bathrooms. Unit 489 has 2 bedrooms and 1.5 bathrooms—incidentally this unit was just upgraded with new flooring, new appliances, and fresh paint. With a zero factor vacancy rate on these units, this will make a great investment opportunity for your investment portfolio.

Bed: 5.0 Bath: 4.5 Price: $599,900

Take a look at this cocktail lineup: bees knees, lavender lemon drop, gin gin mule, whiskey and apples, green tea soju, the old fashioned, caipirinha, granny’s on the sauce. These are some of the craft cocktails available at Golden Beaver Distillery's Park Avenue Still House. While many facets of Golden Beaver Distillery are the same, some new additions have been made to the choice of spirits being distilled. Golden Beaver continues to offer the finest locallymade spirits available in Northern California. The distillery utilizes green energy by using cleaner burning propane, and they still support the California Beaver habitat throughout the area.

Harkening back to the December 2021 issue of Upgraded Living, you can see there have been some major changes with the distillery. These include new additions to the spirit lineup, and a new tasting room experience on Park Avenue in Chico. Kris Koenig is still the head distiller and president, and cofounders Tom Koenig and Frank and Kasia Lewis are all onboard behind the scenes. Nils Koenig now works at DC Beverage selling several lines of craft spirits including Golden Beaver Spirits, and Evan Weatherly is now the bar manager.

Golden Beaver supports the creation of habitat for the California Golden Beaver by

donating to the Occidental Arts and Ecology Center Water Institute in Sonoma County. Additionally, the distillery donates to the California Waterfowl Association’s Veteran’s Hunt Program, which gives all veterans the opportunity to hunt waterfowl who otherwise would not have access or means. “The Veteran’s Hunt Program is available to all veterans,” said Koenig. “We just want to give any veteran, disabled or not, the chance to go out and hunt.”

As far as the production line of spirits, the original offerings are continuing to sell and win awards. A favorite is the Honey Run Honey Flavored Whiskey, a 90-proof blend that starts as straight bourbon with a 21% rye mashbill. Raw Northern California wildflower honey from Olivarez Honeybees in Orland is then added to make a slightly sweet whiskey that makes a perfect old fashioned. Honey Run Honey Flavored Whiskey honors the Honey Run Covered Bridge and the victims of the Camp Fire. Golden Beaver was also an early donor to the bridge rebuilding efforts.

Pacific Flyway Bourbon is a small batch production made from corn, rice, rye, and barley. It celebrates the Northern California Wetlands that support the annual Pacific Flyway migration. The original whiskey was a collaboration with MGPi in Indiana but this

December, the distillery will release its own version.

Pacific Flyway Whiskey is made from 100% Calrose rice and rice malt, then aged in new American Oak and used bourbon barrels. This whiskey has received rave reviews from whiskey editors and podcasters and is currently submitted to several tasting competitions. Results are pending.

Of course, the method in which these spirits are made haven’t changed. Local Calrose rice and rice malt is cooked and cooled then inoculated with proprietary yeast and fermented for five to seven days. The distillations begin in a 650-gallon pot still named Maude then distilled again in a 350-gallon pot still named Harold. Kris then decides if the finished distillate will become moonshine, whiskey, vodka, gin, or soju.

Beaver Likker Moonshine is Golden Beaver Distillery’s original spirit. The moonshine is double distilled to create a smooth and complex spirit. The ASCOT Awards— American Spirits Council of Tasters—said, “Light and sweet nose, no burn in the mouth, surprisingly great for moonshine.”

Beaver Likker Moonshine received the ASCOT Platinum Award.

Chico Creek Rye is on the list of spirits as

WRITTEN BY TIM MILHORN PHOTOS BY NILS KOENIG

well. It’s a 90-proof rye that makes you forget about what you thought you knew about rye whiskey. This is a rye held to a higher standard, from its fermentation to barrel aging.

A big favorite is the Feather River Gin, which began full production in 2022. It has flavors of lemongrass and oranges in the recipe. Three types of peppercorns are added to lend a hint of spiciness. Juniper and coriander provide a subtle backbone to the gin. This makes it perfect for people who are learning to appreciate gin. Feather River Gin was awarded a silver medal at the John Barleycorn Spirit Competition.

Richardson Springs Grappa is a barrel-aged version of traditional grappa found in the old country. This spirit is extremely smooth, and its unique flavor stands out among the best. It is made by distilling the pomace (a blend of crushed grapes and stems) left over from the winemaking process. It comes in at 80 proof—a great holiday apėritif.

High Lakes Vodka captures the feeling of taking a refreshing dip at the 5,500 foot altitude of the High Lakes region of Butte and Plumas counties. It is the perfect spirit to make a light summer drink mixed with flavored soda water or to mix up a martini on a summer’s evening. John Barleycorn Society awarded it a gold medal.

The next offering is new to the Golden Beaver lineup, Biba Soju California Style, a California take on traditional Korean soju, one of the most popular spirits in the world. Golden Beaver soju is a hand made, double pot distilled spirit, and the Calrose rice adds a local twist to the flavor. Biba Soju is the gold medal winner of the John Barleycorn Awards, and the 2022 Sunset Inter Spirit Awards, Asian Spirits Winner. “Soju really lends itself to making great cocktails,” said Kris. “It’s very malleable for mixing with juice, flavored soda water, or, for a light and refreshing mix, Biba Soju and Sierra Nevada Hop Splash.”

No doubt the biggest change made by Golden Beaver Distillery is the addition of the Park Avenue Still House. Kris calls the interior “hillbilly couteur,” a blend of various woods on the walls, bar, ceiling, and tables. The rustic-looking walls and beams throughout have been reclaimed from different areas. The beams comprising

the bar are from a home built in Atherton, California in 1890. The round beams supporting the bar overhang are hand-hewn hardwood and came from Honduras; you can see the hand-held tool marking on the square beams above the bar top.

The vintage wooden planks on the wall behind the bar are called “mushroom wood.” They were originally used to grow mushrooms on the surface, and you can see the strange grooves and designs on the planking. The windows behind the bar came from housing built from the turn of the last century, and you can see the wavy ripples in it, which are called “cylinder glass.” Behind that glass is Tina the Thumper, waiting for the next run of infused moonshine.

When you enter the bar from the gift shop, you will find yourself going through a 15-foot “tunnel” that is a replica of the Honey Run Covered Bridge. It was built by Frank Lewis for the Paradise High School Class of 2019 who used it in their graduation ceremony. It is definitely a meaningful experience.

Bar Manager Evan Weatherly said, “The

Golden Beaver Still House is a nice escape from the corridors of Downtown Chico. It has a very relaxed feel, and it caters to a slightly older crowd.” Though, those who patronize The Commons bar next door will often drop by for a craft cocktail. The Still House also serves food at lunch and dinner through the onsite Southern Zen Barbeque, which is “Low-brow comfort food for the soul.” The charcuterie plate and the smash burger taco are two favorites.

A cigar smoking area completes the space out back and offers patrons the opportunity to have a “dram and a cigar.” Every other Friday, the area will feature music by singersongwriters.

The gift store offers clothing, hats, bags, and bottle sales. You can find flasks and coasters, too. The premier gift would be the Foghat Cocktail Smoker to make “smoked cocktails.” Golden Beaver supplies the shavings which are sourced from used bourbon barrels. This gives the smoke a double rich flavor.

Not only is Kris proud of the Golden

Beaver’s name and branding, he is a huge supporter of rebuilding beaver habitat in California. This is why Golden Beaver donates a portion of their revenue to the reestablishment of the beaver in the foothills of the Sierra Nevada and Coastal Range mountains.” People don’t realize what a positive impact the wetlands beavers have,” he said. “Beaver ponds and the associated marshes act as natural firebreaks.” In times like these, there are few contributions more advantageous.

You can still head on out to the original Golden Beaver Distillery at 13464 Browns Valley Road off of Cohasset Road by the airport, but the place to visit and enjoy libations is certainly the new Golden Beaver Still House at 2420 Park Avenue in Chico. It’s open Wednesday to Friday from 4-10pm and on the weekend from 10am-10pm. Make sure to check them out online at goldenbeaverdistillery.com or on Facebook. The Still House is also available for private parties and events. Contact them at (530) 965-7281 for more information.

Sohnrey Family Foods

Through five generations of farmers, our philosophy has been: Integrity, Quality, and Family. That same philosophy powers our food products. We work hard, and we take great pride in producing high-quality crops of almonds, rice, prunes, and walnuts. Many of our crops are exported around the world, but we’re rooted deep into the heart of Northern California.

In 2014, we opened up a gift shop on our farm. We are firm believers in supporting the local community, so we filled our gift shop with products from small or local California businesses, including our own. Our shop also specializes in gift baskets and boxes that make unique and special gifts. Come on by and visit us!

sohnreyfamilyfoods

@sohnreyfamilyfoods

www.sohnreyfamilyfoods.com

41 Skillin Lane Oroville, CA 95965

(530) 871-1975 Mon - Fri, 9am - 5pm | Weekends 10am-4pm

Harrison's California Chestnuts

Yes, you can buy chestnuts in Butte County! Harrison's California Chestnuts familyowned and family-farmed orchard consistently produces exquisite and sweet chestnuts year after year. These large nuts are actually more like a tree-grown grain than the nuts you may be used to. Low in fat, low in calories, and high in fiber, they're as nutritious as they are delicious and are the perfect addition to a heart-healthy diet. Harrison's California Chestnuts specializes in cultivating the Colossal chestnut variety, celebrated for its remarkable size and delightful flavor. Visit their website to purchase chestnuts, available through the end of October. You'll be surprised at just how versatile these nuts can be, and once you've tried them, you'll likely wonder why you hadn't sooner.

californiachestnuts

CSU, Chico Meats Lab

For more info or to schedule a visit, check out www.californiachestnuts.com

CSU, Chico Meats Lab is a student-focused, education-first, learning facility above all else. Managed by Haydn Clement, this USDA-inspected harvest and processing facility is different from your local butcher shop in that it can take in live animals and process them to their final retail package. It’s a pretty transformative experience educationally when you get to see it all in one place, and students do everything from start to finish. Currently, their beef unit is feeding olive pumice to 15 head of cattle to see if a common byproduct of our local olive oil industry could be used to feed and finish beef with superior fat, protein, and flavor. The Meats Lab runs retail sales every Thursday and Friday from 8am-5pm, allowing the general public to taste and buy the students’ handiwork. Stop by and see this incredible location for yourself!

chicostatemeatlab

@chicostate_meatslab

311 Nicholas C Schouten Ln, Chico (530) 898-6028

Mon - Fri, 9am - 5pm | Weekends 10am-4pm

Grown with Water and God’s Love

Two words: Liquid candy. An orange so sweet it’s amazing, astounding, and awesome all at once. This fruit was a “summer orange,” a Valencia. They are grown to be eaten from July to December. The “winter” oranges are navels, and they are to be eaten starting around January 1st. Those words of knowledge were spoken by Merritt Erickson, Orland farmer and inventor. He ought to know, as he grew up in the orange orchards just south of Orland on land bought by his father, Milford, back in 1943.

It’s not just oranges the Ericksons grew, but alfalfa, almonds (proudly pronounced

“ammons” in Glenn County), and olives. There were even cattle in the mix, once upon a time. However, oranges are the star of this show, and the most remarkable fact is that the trees were planted in 1900. 1900! They have produced oranges for over 120 years, and while the current orange tree acreage is less than an acre, it’s amazing how many oranges each tree produces.

Rebekah, Merritt’s daughter and business manager, said, ”Each tree produces about 200 oranges. It may not look big, but there are so many oranges to harvest.” Merritt, who is the chief picker, added, “When I’m out here picking, it seems the oranges

never end.” And it doesn’t matter what the weather is like. “We get orders, and I go out and pick. Rain or shine I’m picking. It definitely gives me something to do!”

The soil at the Erickson ranch is excellent, and the area is called “The Loam Ridge District.” The soil is so good that the family doesn’t need to use fertilizer. Not only that, they don’t spray the fruit with harmful pesticides. “We can’t say we’re organic because we don’t have the oranges authenticated, but we do call our fruit, ‘almost organic’,” said Merritt.

While the winter orange season won’t begin

WRITTEN BY TIM MILHORN

for a few months, and there aren’t enough Valencias to buy, you can begin to plan for harvest in January. You don’t have to trek out to the ranch, but you can if you want. The Ericksons sell their oranges at local farmer’s markets, and you can buy them directly at Kent’s Meats in Red Bluff and Anderson. You can find Erickson oranges at Stoble Coffee’s February Market if you’re looking to buy fresh oranges. A BIG hit this year were their small bottles of orange juice.

Another great way to enjoy their fruit is in ice cream at Savor Ice Cream in Chico. They have Orange Creamsicle ice cream and the Vegan Meyer Lemon made from Erickson

lemons right off the tree.

Coming up in the future from Merritt Erickson is his own creation, a 100% organic food cleaning preparation that is absolutely amazing. It will revolutionize the bacteria disinfection process, and we look forward to telling that story in full when the time is finally right.

When January 1, 2024 rolls around, be sure to check out Erickson Oranges on Facebook and Instagram for harvest information and make sure to get your hands on some of their oranges before they’re all gone!

Sierra Oro Farm Dinner

The Sierra Oro Farm Trail’s first annual Fork to Table dinner is set for October 15th from 4-9pm at TJ Farms Estates.

Friends of the Farm Trail are excited for the opportunity to bring together various farms of the area and highlight their products. Nicole Johansson, organizer of the event, says “We are bringing cheer and charm back to the trail.”

This year brings a new perspective to the trail experience with a singular gathering and harvest dinner as they prepare for next year’s 20th anniversary of the Sierra Oro Farm Trail. TJ Farms’ barn and pumpkin patch will be open for guests to explore, and there will be a harvest marketplace featuring vendor tables from each farm trail participant with samples available to taste, try, and purchase.

Later in the evening, guests will head out to the front lawn for a unique threecourse dinner featuring a thoughtfully designed menu prepared by Butte Creek BBQ. The meal will showcase ingredients sourced from the farms, ranches, and wineries throughout our area as Butte County natives, Emma Garrahy and Will Harman, share their vocal harmonies and acoustic guitar talents.

Tickets are available on their website, www.sierraoro.org, and will be limited to the first 200 reservations.

not just for farmers

The Commission on Country Life was established by Theodore Roosevelt in 1908 in response to growing concerns about challenges faced by rural Americans. One of the outcomes of this commission was the agricultural extension service which sought to share the most current science on improving agricultural practices. The Butte County Farm Bureau was founded in 1917 in an effort to secure an advisor from the extension service for the area. These advisors would counsel farmers and ranchers on management strategies that had been developed by agricultural colleges and experiment stations in animal husbandry and crop production.

Today, the bureau is a non-profit membership advocacy organization that represents farmers, ranchers, agricultural businesses, and consumers. Colleen Cecil has been the executive director of the Butte County Farm Bureau for the past 17 years and explains, “Our goal is to make sure farmers and ranchers are farming and ranching, and we do that through a multitude of avenues.”

One such avenue is advocacy, working with elected officials and government representatives to examine regulations and policies while investigating how those may impact the local agriculture community. This support doesn’t stop with county governments but also includes discussions with state and federal policymakers, as membership in the Butte County Farm Bureau includes membership in the California State and the American Farm Bureau. According to their website, the “organization works not only with members, but also with

elected officials, media, government agencies, educators, and consumers to analyze and solve issues (both social & economic) facing the agriculture industry.” Relationships and conversations with lawmakers currently center around water, land use, and the environment. Colleen shares that their staff is always working on policy and advocacy to ensure “farmers and ranchers are always at the table” when discussions occur at local, state, or national levels on issues that surround their ability to successfully continue doing business.

Another way the bureau supports the business of farming is through its education. Colleen says that being able to tell the farmer’s story is an integral part of how the organization shares the importance and connectedness of agriculture to the greater community.

Scholarships, education courses, and annual community events such as the Farm City Celebration and AgriBee are a few ways the organization shares its mission.

Anyone who is interested in supporting agriculture in Butte County is welcome and encouraged to join the Farm Bureau; from farmers and ranchers to consumers and business owners. Colleen emphasizes, “Our desire is that everybody has access to the safest, most affordable food supply in the world, and that’s what we’re working towards.”

More information on the Butte County Farm Bureau and its membership opportunities can be found on the website at www.buttefarmbureau.com.

WRITTEN BY SHELLY BRANDON

FarmCity Celebration

Northern California is gifted with an abundance of productive ranches, farms, and wineries that lend to the beauty and openness of Chico and the surrounding communities. Farms abut our neighborhoods and city parks, helping to shape the landscape while providing bountiful harvests, but often despite being so near, it can be easy to feel disconnected.

The FarmCity Celebration was founded by Kiwanis International in 1955 as a way to build and solidify the relationship between rural and urban America and to remind us of the vital link between cities and farms. Colleen Cecil, Executive Director of the Butte County Farm Bureau shares, “We, in agriculture, very much want people to understand why it's so important to us. Farming is more than a business; it is a lifestyle, it is family. The only way we can do that is through events and activities like the FarmCity Celebration.”

The weeklong event starts off with Kid’s Day on Wednesday, November 1st, at the Chico State Farm, where local third graders get to learn and experience life on the farm with their elementary school classes. There will be various agriculture stations set up for students to explore. In the past, they’ve had branding stations explaining how and why livestock have them, demonstrations on how to mill rice, ice cream-making stations,

USDA mail inspection canines, sheep herding demonstrations, and more. Colleen laughs and says, “There are a lot of different jobs in agriculture, and they're not all done by people.” This year promises to be just as exciting for the kids as they explore the farm with their schools.

Following Kid’s Day is the Harvest Festival held at Bidwell Mansion on November 4th from 10am to 2pm. It’s the epitome of bringing the farm to the urban center as the mansion is transformed into a buzzing farm full of interactive activities. Colleen points to one display that really seems to make the connection to a lot of children, the corn sheller and grinder. The hand crank takes kernels off the corn while the grinder pulverizes them resulting in cornmeal. Holding the plant they see growing in the field and turning it into something used in their own kitchen makes the link to farmers much more tangible. Forging these connections between the farm and the city is exactly what the events hope to encourage. There will be animals to pet, calf roping, bee demonstrations, a model cow to milk, antique and modern farm equipment, horse-drawn carriage rides, food booths, and harvests to sample.

Capping off the celebration on November 8th is the Agri-Business Bus Tour and Lunch. It begins at the Chico State Farm

where registrants board a chartered bus and tour five area farms, processing facilities, or other agribusinesses and get the opportunity to see what goes on behind the scenes. It’s a chance for the agricultural community to tell their story and answer questions about their operations. The day will finish with a barrel chicken lunch back at Chico State after participants have toured and experienced a variety of farms, vineyards, ranches, or orchards our area is so fortunate to have.

Colleen stresses, “Butte is an agricultural county and it’s critically important that if we are going to remain an agricultural county, that people in this community understand its value and importance. It’s why they live here even if they don’t realize it. The open space, the almond bloom every year… all of those beautiful things that we take pictures of exist because of agriculture in Butte County. Whether it’s grazing ground for cattle, water through Butte Creek for salmon production, or planes flying seed onto the rice fields every year. In order for that agriculture to continue to exist, we want to continue to educate and make everyone a part of it.”

Information on all the FarmCity Celebration happenings can be found on the website at www.farmcity.com

WRITTEN BY SHELLY BRANDON

Maisie Jane’s California Sunshine Products, Inc.

What started as an FFA project in high school, 30 years ago by a fourth-generation almond farmer’s daughter, has blossomed into a fully integrated food manufacturing company of delicious and beautiful specialty nut products and a quaint gift shop just 1.5 miles from Downtown Chico. Maisie Jane’s products are made with great pride offering solely dryroasted products and using only natural ingredients. Educating customers about farming life, since Maisie Jane’s is the farmer, processor, and packer, is a highlight for them. At the gift shop, you’ll find pictures, antique farming equipment, and a knowledgeable staff that will help answer any ‘nutty’ questions. They also enjoy highlighting other locally made and grown products in their gift shop and compiling them in beautifully wrapped gift baskets.

maisiejanessunshine

@maisiejanesgiftshop

www.maisiejanes.com

Gift Shop: 1324 Dayton Rd. Chico, CA 95928 530-809-2374

Mon - Fri, 10am - 5:30pm | Saturday 10am-4:30pm

Odyssey Winery

Odyssey Winery beckons you to embark on a unique journey along life's unpredictable path. Explore a selection of more than nine exquisite wines, allowing you to savor, sip, or share a bottle at your leisure. Craft your own personalized grazing board from their distinctive marketplace, or peruse their charming boutique for a special gift, whether it's for yourself or someone dear. This sanctuary is where individuals from diverse backgrounds discover the inspiration to share their personal narratives. At Odyssey Winery, our aim is to make you feel welcome, regardless of your origin or destination. Every bottle from Odyssey Winery narrates its unique voyage. It might recount tales of dew-kissed mornings or tempestuous nights, a refreshing spring, or an enduring autumn. These are the stories of the inexorable passage of time and the generations of devoted farmers who have cherished this fertile land, gifting us with its abundant bounty.

OdysseyWinery @odysseywinery www.odysseywinery.com

Bradley & Son Grass Fed Beef

6237 Cohasset Rd, Chico, CA 95973 530.891.WINE

Thursday–Sunday 11am–7pm

In the early 1940s, Grandpa Francis Bradley decided to switch from dairy farming to beef ranching, wintering cattle in Lincoln, CA and summering in Sierra Valley, CA, a majestic— and largest—valley in the Sierras. We continue as a family-run business that for years has raised quality beef cattle which has always been in demand by the best beef processing companies. Bradley and Son is a traditional cow-calf beef operation. We calve out mama cows in the summer months and sell those calves commercially in the following year. The Bradley family has been doing this for generations. Over the past handful of years, we started offering a specific grass-fed and finished product privately to friends and family. We hand-pick the top end of our cattle crop to keep on the ranch and finish out with native grasses on the pasture.

@bradleyandsongrass_fed_beef

www.bradleygrassfedbeef.com

Durham, CA 530-519-1757

sales@bradleygrassfedbeef.com

Secret menus items are not exclusive to a select few restaurants in Northern California. In fact, we've discovered nearly every restaurant has a secret menu all its own, filled with delicious items known only to kitchen staff and regulars. Last month, we revealed secret menu items from 18 of our favorite local restaurants, and we're excited to introduce you to four more in this issue. Check out the instructions below and learn how you can win $400 in gift cards to this month's eateries!

THE CHALLENGE:

We're giving away an additional $400 in gift certificates to the following 4 restaurants. Winning is easy! All you have to do is snap a photo of the item you're trying and post it to your Instagram profile by following the steps below.

STEP 1

Follow Upgraded Living on Instagram!

STEP 3

Post the photo to your Instagram profile with the title of the secret menu item as the caption and tag the restaurant in the post using the @tag listed under their address. For example: Monte Cristo @theroostcafechico

STEP 2

Snap a photo of the item you're trying with your smartphone or camera!

STEP 4

Rinse and repeat! We will be giving away four $25 gift certificates to each restaurant for a total of $400 in gift certificates! Combined with last month, this brings the total to $1,400 in gift cards up for grabs!

MONTE CRISTO

THE ROOST

817 MAIN ST, CHICO

If there's something The Roost doesn't do well, we have secret menu item for some time, it was recently added to their specials list, and will be making its way to their menu shortly! Turkey, ham, and Swiss cheese sandwiched between two mouthwatering pieces of French toast and topped with jelly, makes for some of the most decadent

HONEY SRIRACHA CHICKEN SANDWICH

BELLA'S

231 MAIN ST, CHICO

@BELLAS_SPORTS_PUB

Known for having the best chicken wings in town, and being voted Chico's best sports pub many years running, Bella's secret menu item combines two customer favorites into one. The Honey Sriracha Chicken Sandwich offers Bella's fried chicken tenders generously tossed in their honey sriracha wing sauce with pepper jack cheese on a brioche bun. Sweet, spicy, and crunchy, it checks every box for the perfect complement to the start of football season.

JAKE'S STEAK SANDWICH

JAKE'S BURGERS & MORE

1721 ORO DAM BLVD E. #11, OROVILLE

Jake's Burgers in Oroville is known for having some of the most decadent two-hands-required burgers in the Northstate, but their sandwich menu is no slouch either! Jake's Steak Sandwich has long been a secret menu item and favorite of customers in the know throughout the area. Seasoned grilled steak, pepper jack cheese, jalapeño cream cheese, lettuce, and tomato on crunchy grilled sourdough leaves nothing to the imagination! Bring a friend—this sandwich could easily feed two!

JW ROOSTER & SNAKEBITE

THE ALLIES PUB

426 BROADWAY ST, STE 130, CHICO

@THEALLIESPUB

The Allies Pub's JW Rooster Pit-za is a must try. Light and fluffy pita-flatbread with pesto and melted mozzarella, joined by sweet red peppers, tomato, and tender chicken provide the base for this delicious secret menu item. Topped with purple lettuce, spinach, arugula, more pesto chicken mix, and a light vinaigrette make this a wonderful afternoon treat. The JW Rooster pairs excellently with another secret—a traditional Snakebite—a blend of dark ale or porter and cider.

Well Water: Where to Start

There are over 600,000 private wells in the state of California. These wells aren’t subject to the same testing and monitoring requirements that public water systems use to ensure potability. William Bocast and Clay Farrell from Culligan of Chico estimate that 40% of their customers are on private wells. They share that, unlike municipal water supplies, it’s up to the owners to ensure their water quality. “That’s where we come in. Most people don’t know where to start. They know what they see, what they taste, what they smell, or how it feels on their skin. Then it’s ‘ok, well, how do I solve this?’” Culligan’s professional water testing and knowledge of groundwater patterns make them the local expert on water issues.

Foothill Areas

Problem: Low pH - Causes problems with copper plumbing

- Blue-green staining

- Leaching of copper into water

- Pinhole leaks as pipes are eroded

Solution: Culligan system monitors and adds necessary components to raise pH.

Oroville and Red Bluff

Problem: Iron

- Orange water out of well

- Iron oxide staining

- Iron deposits in aerators, dishwashers, and washing machines

Problem: Sulfur

- Rotten egg smell from water

Solution: The specialized filter installed in the Culligan system takes care of the iron and sulfur before it enters the home.

Durham and West Chico

Problem: Nitrates

- Carcinogen possibly associated with above average rates of cancer in California

Solution: Culligan’s Reverse Osmosis system removes up to 95% of nitrates from the water.

All Areas

Problem: Sediment

- Sand and silt in water can damage appliances and cause staining.

Solution: Culligan’s Whole-House Sediment Water Filter Housing reduces dirt, sand, and silt.

Problem: Bacteria

EPA estimates 1 in 3 wells are contaminated with bacteria which can result in skin, eye, and gastrointestinal infections.

Solution: Culligan uses ultraviolet light to treat well water which, unlike chlorine, won’t alter the taste or smell.

If you’d like to schedule your complimentary water test, contact Culligan at 530-343-5100 or through their website at www.culliganofchico.com and start your journey to enjoying Culligan water from your well.

WRITTEN BY SHELLY BRANDON

There Will be Blood... Turnips!

The brighter the better. That key phrase definitely applies to the world of fruits and vegetables. Bright colors equal antioxidants, anti-inflammatories, vitamins, and minerals. Beetroots are chock full of them. While beets are a food that people love or hate, read on to find out how healthy they are.

While the beet is 85% water, it contains folate, manganese, potassium, iron, and vitamins A, C, and K. Beets have some protein, fiber, little fat, and are an excellent source of nitrates—compounds that improve blood flow. They also contain fructans, which are short-chain carbs called FODMAPs. That means blood turnips may be hard to digest for some people.

As far as sugar, the glycemic index is 61, and the glycemic load is only five. This means they don’t affect blood sugar very much. Fiber content is very high, But the most amazing effect of beetroots is how they affect blood pressure! It has been medically proven they lower blood pressure by five to ten mmHg in a few hours. According to the website HealthHarvard.edu, “Nitrates convert to nitric acid, a compound that relaxes and widens blood vessels, which in turn lowers blood pressure.”

Beetroot cultivation began around 2,000 BCE in the Mediterranean region. The Greeks used beets as an aphrodisiac, but

as renowned chef Andrew Zimmern has stated, of all the foods he’s eaten around the world that claim to have aphrodisiac properties, none has stood up to the test.

I’ve always been a fan of blood turnips, whether pickled, boiled and canned, roasted in the oven, or in the juice form. You can eat them raw, boiled, steamed, or roasted, and you can sauté the greens. Beets are a tip-to-tip edible plant. Lately, I’ve been drinking beet juice daily. Has it helped my blood pressure? Haven’t checked. Does it taste good? At first. The initial flavor is sweet, followed by that unique beet taste, and finishes on the palate with a slightly dirt-like flavor. How do I know what dirt tastes like? It’s a long story involving my older brother, his friend, and making Little Timmy eat a real dirt pie. I’m still scarred!

A definite beet cooking tip: No matter how you prepare them, be prepared to wear some sort of protective gloves when you peel them. If not, you will have purple-stained fingers for a few days. Beets are versatile after cooking. You can eat them as prepared or you can add them to a salad. Roasted beet salad is a bit of a misnomer, as beets are not the main ingredient. However, mix in baby greens, candied walnuts, goat cheese, and balsamic vinegar, and you’ve got the makings of something delicious. Anything else is up to you!

WRITTEN BY TIM MILHORN

Beet and Arugula Salad

Say what you will about beets, but these antioxidant powerhouses pack nutrition and flavor into every bite. Sweet on the front, and earthy on the back, they're a great complement to a wide array of salads and pair nicely with most greens, nuts, and vegetables. To top it off, they also provide a beautiful and bright color finish to any salad. Modify this one as you please, perhaps by adding apple, pear, or other ingredients to make the dish uniquely yours. Bon apétit!

Ingredients

- 8 oz arugula

- 2 oz red cabbage

- 3 oz goat cheese (or choose your own)

- 1 medium cooked beet

- 1/2 cup roasted walnuts

- 1/3 cup balsamic dressing

- Any other toppings you see fit! We recommend apple, pear, or cranberries!

Directions

1. Rinse beets under cold water and slice off the greens. Peel them to reveal the inner fruit!

2. Cut beets into evenly-sized cubes.

3. Lay the beets out on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Season with olive oil, sea salt, and black pepper.

4. Bake beets in the oven for 35-40 minutes at 400°F. Allow the beets to cool completely.

5. Roughly chop red cabbage, walnuts, and arugula.

6. Cut cheese into evenly-sized cubes.

7. Combine cooled baked beets with red cabbage, walnuts, arugula, and cheese. Add any additional toppings of your choice. Toss, dress with balsamic dressing, and toss again.

Sweet Savory Goodness

It’s 11:30am on a Friday, and I feel like the late and great Steve Irwin as I embark on a task to track down the elusive katsu sandwiches from PB & Jimmy’s. As the saying goes, this early bird decided not to wait until 2pm, and each of the trays in the front display were full of deliciously crispy protein, as if they’d been waiting just for me. It turns out, that wasn't where the coveted katsu was, but I was still in luck. I ordered the chicken sandwich and decided to try something else to get a more comprehensive feel for the options. “Hey, Jimmy!” I hollered, “What do you recommend we have with one of your sandwiches?”

Jimmy cupped a hand to his mouth, “You want the rice with pork belly!”

The moment he said it, I did indeed want it. Perhaps that makes Jimmy Lee, and his wife Youa Vang, foodie fortunetellers. The two always wanted to have a place that celebrated eastern cuisine. After the closure of their venture Lucky Poke, they went with Plan B (the true meaning of the PB in their restaurant’s name) and gave foodies what we were craving before we even knew we were craving it. Their hit? Katsu—a panko-fried protein with the consistency of schnitzel.

My fingers pressed into the fluffy white Japanese milk bread which held the kewpie mayo and crumbled white cabbage without softening on the inside. All the while, a salty-sweet katsu sauce

didn’t diminish the chicken’s crisp exterior, keeping the inner moisture hostage, resulting in a crunchy and tender flavor explosion. Want it spicy? Ask for their homemade Buldak-inspired sauce.

On the rice dish, the pork belly’s juiciness blends into, and is perfectly complemented by, the sticky white rice. A bright and spicy chimichurri (a.k.a. “the green sauce”) is served alongside, with subtle hints of fish sauce, yet bursting with cilantro and lime. No drop was spared in my meal.

The mango tea was satisfying and hydrating, natural tasting, and not oversweetened. Their seal-and-go pouch is great if you need to hit the road and finish your meal later.

When asked about the details of each dish, Jimmy glanced at his wife and said, “This is her place.”

Youa says, “I wanted the menu to honor my mom and remember her cooking. She also enjoyed flowers, and there’s a corner of the dining room just for her.”

Grab a table outside at 119 W. 2nd Street and enjoy the bustling Downtown Chico lunchtime, or inside, perhaps by the Japanese flowers adorning the wall of that meaningful nook. Enjoy a taste of Hmong heritage as translated by PB & Jimmy’s and don't forget to check them out online at www.pbandjimmys.com.

to change the world with music

KAI Music & Arts Center changes the world with music. Their doors are open to people of all ages and abilities. Music created in the center, whether it is in a practice room or the recording studio, is often taken out the front door and shared with others. KAI supplies the sound system for the Downtown Chico Friday Night Concerts in the city plaza, which will feature The Pretty Pills and students of the KAI Center on October 13th. Other KAI-related events are planned for the future, and every performance helps change the world into a better place.

KAI Music & Arts is directed by Gary Smith, a local music promoter, manager, and a huge supporter of many local non-profit organizations. Aiding him in his efforts are Gypsy Andrews, Jacob McDonald, Ben Daw, and Michael Whittemore. They came together to create a space for people to express themselves, foster mutual support, engage in collective collaboration, and promote self-expression through the arts.

When you go through the doors of the center, your world is immediately changed. It’s the natural wood panels, the displays of art, and the vintage album covers on the wall of the Beatles, Led Zeppelin, Jimi Hendrix, and others. It is the veritable maze of rooms throughout the two-building, two-story structure. There are rooms for music and music lessons, fine arts, drama, a recording

studio, cottage crafts, maker spaces, and more.

Schools that support KAI are Core Butte, Lake View School, and South Sutter Charter School. Local businesses help sponsor events, such as Sierra Nevada Brewery, who will play a big part in the KAI Music Festival in Concow on September 23rd at the Lake Concow Campgrounds. The lineup includes Melli Farias and Lake Anthony—who are managed by Gary Smith, Mystic Roots, Zi and Bayns, and Pat Hull to name a few. Proceeds from the event will, in part, go to Duets Across America, From the Ground Up Farms, and others.

Future events will be held on New Year’s Eve at the El Rey Theater in Chico, the Butte Theater in Gridley, and the Auburn State Theater. A big fundraiser for BPAN research (see last month’s music page) was held at Mulberry Station in Chico in September.

So, why KAI? Kai was the Smith family’s beloved dog with whom the entire family bonded and who passed away from cancer. When the idea of a music and arts center was proposed, Gary came up with the name Kai as an homage to his canine family member. The center’s unique name lends itself to helping others as it means “restoration,” “recovery,” and “keeper of the keys.”

You can contact KAI by email at contact@kaimusicandarts.com, by phone at (530) 717-5949, or visit them at 515 Wall Street in Chico.

WRITTEN BY TIM MILHORN

bring us home

Butte County has an inordinately high number of animals in need of adoption due to a number of factors including wildfires, floods, and irresponsible breeding. Please consider adoption as an option for increasing the love in your own household. These soon-to-be pets can be adopted by contacting the Northwest SPCA at (530) 533-7636. You can also visit their website at www.northwestspca.org

7 months neutered male

The Junior Entrepreneur

Many successful business people will tell you that they began to think of personal success at an early age. Young entrepreneur Jazzy DeWitt thinks of the future when she says, “I plan on being creative and making crafts the rest of my life.” As Jazzy has been making crafts since she was six years old, it seems she is on her path to success.

Jazzy sells her wares at Nothing But Love, a local craft store in Paradise, California. These include rings, keychains, bracelets, and car diffusers. She primarily uses wire, clay beads, and yarn as her building materials. The crafts come in mostly neutral colors, but red, white, and blue themes are very popular. She makes about 100 items at a time, every few months, and takes them to the shop to sell.

Car diffusers (basically aroma containers) are a big seller. “Car diffusers are popular, and I sell a lot of those,” said Jazzy. Let’s face it, just about everyone wants their car to smell good! So, what does Jazzy do with her earnings? “I buy some things on Amazon, and I save some money, too,” she said. A local favorite place to shop is the Dollar Tree, “I go there and buy candy, balloons, and other things.”

When busy making crafts, Jazzy likes to tell jokes to her friends and sometimes to her teacher (if the time is right) in her sixthgrade class at Paradise Charter School.

Her favorite subjects are math and history, and she likes all her teachers. Some of her pastimes are playing tennis and volleyball recreationally, fishing, and swimming. Keeping up with the modern world of kids, she also enjoys games on her Xbox when she isn’t hanging out with friends.

In the future, she would like to be a food photographer. Her mom, Stephanie McIntyre, used to be a professional baker, and she always took pictures of her baked goods. Jazzy’s knowledge of the tricks in food photography is impressive. She knew that one trick involving hamburgers was to put motor oil on the patty and that they propped the ingredients up using toothpicks!

Jazzy’s other family members are her dad, Ben; brother Wade, three; and step-brother Jackson, eight. And we can’t forget her Holland lop-eared rabbit, Judy, who Jazzy describes as “vicious.”

Before we end the article, we have to deliver one of Jazzy’s jokes:

“Why did the boy throw his clock out of the window? He wanted to see time fly!”

If you want to purchase some of Jazzy’s craftwork, visit Nothing But Love in Paradise. It’s full of great gifts.

4 months neutered male

WRITTEN BY TIM MILHORN