Upgraded Living - April 2014

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APRIL 2014 UPGRADEDLIVING.COM

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SUNGLASSES & WATCHES

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334 Broadway Street | Chico 5

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CONTENTS

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12 LOCAL LEGEND

30 REAL ESTATE

58 ART PAGES

16 ALL THAT JAZZ

38 NEW AGAIN KITCHEN & BATH PRESENTS: House Call!

61 CALENDAR

41 GUIDE TO SPRING FASHION 2014

62 READER’S PIC

Sal Casa inspires with his art, his advice and his story.

The Nor-Cal Jazz Festival has us dancing in our seats!

24 WE LOVE VELO

The Wildflower Century ride is the perfect way to start the season.

28 CULINARY CREATIONS

Mooney Farms shares the recipe for a perfect warm-weather hors d’oeuvre.

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Cover Model • Tanya Teats Photo • Joel Fricker

APRIL 2014

See what’s new in the area’s real estate market.

We peek inside a historical frat house to see a modernized home.

The area’s best boutiques have given us a glimpse into what’s trending this season.

UPGRADED LIVING | APRIL 2014 | UPGRADEDLIVING.COM

We tour the studios of two amazing local artists.

Don’t miss out on the art, music, theatre and community activities happening in the area this month.

Our monthly photo competition begins with a bang. The first winner gives us butterflies.

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Sal and his family moved to California when his in-laws purchased some acreage near Chico. Changes of scenery only propelled Sal’s flow. He began to exhibit his paintings at the Arts and Crafts Gallery in downtown Chico.

Some instructors from Chico State saw his work and asked if he wanted to teach a figure drawing class at the university. He readily accepted and with no degree, only pure talent, he continued to teach at Chico State for 20 years.

For two decades he got to extend his knowledge to students who began just like he did- with drive in their eyes, and brushes gripped at-the-ready in hand. Tidbits of wisdom like, “Don’t buy art books. If you’re going to copy look at the masters, or you’ll end up painting generic junk,” and “If you want to create art, you have to forget about art,” are casually dropped into our conversation and I can see why his students admire him. You may hear Sal question, “Where are you in the painting? Look into yourself and paint what you’re about. If you want to paint a tree, paint the way it grows.

Go out and look at it. Smell it. Take it in through all your senses.” He is an inspiring artist and a prolific teacher. His advice relates not only to drawing but

also to learning how to embrace and enjoy seemingly everyday surroundings.

These days Sal feels fortunate that at 86 he’s been able to keep painting. For him, painting is a religion or sacrament. Reading literature also awakens his soul and he uses letters as abstract symbols in quite a few works. In discussing the subject of the creative process, he explains that you must approach each piece like a child and “get very excited.” In 1988, he won the Gold Medal of Honor from the American Watercolor Society in New York, and since then his work has received many awards throughout the United States. In spite of his success, Sal remains true to his love for and excitement about art. Sal believes many painters to be stuck in second gear and doesn’t want to catch himself painting the same painting all his life. “To create, you have to destroy.” The words settle over me as we leave our interview perch.

Side by side, we amble down the sidewalk towards Vagabond Rose, a gallery and frame shop in downtown Chico that sells Sal’s art.

We are politely interrupted by a woman who from the seat of her bicycle exclaims, “The Great Sal Casa. You’re my hero.” I glance at Sal to gauge his reaction. He throws up a hand and beams at her beneath the brim of his lucky Boston hat. The Great Sal Casa indeed.

Alyssa Worley Michelle Camy and Bree Chun

SAL’S MEDIUM: Sal paints with a technique called casein. It is unique in that watercolor paints are mixed with milk to create an opaque look. It is one of the oldest and most durable media known to man.

J. Isaac Barthelow, M.D. Talks Eye Care and Insurance macular degeneration, and many more.

People may not realize it, but it is not uncommon to diagnose and detect other systemic issues such as diabetes, high blood pressure, autoimmune diseases, and even brain tumors in our exams.

UL: What does the Affordable Care Act mean for eye insurance?

Dr. B: If you have medical insurance, you have eye insurance! A vision plan is NOT necessary! Expanded coverage means a larger population of previously uninsured people will now receive eye care. You are covered regardless of what tier plan you have; everyone will receive insurance including eye coverage.

The only variances are the co-pay and premiums. Paying extra every month for a “vision plan” is not necessary to have access to eye care.

Eyes are often overlooked. Dr. B stresses the eye as an organ and it should be monitored and examined like any other organ in the body. Glasses are secondary to him; his priority is the health of your eyes. His goal is to maximize and maintain visual equity and active preventative care is crucial in doing so.

The Affordable Care Act will increase the number of people insured and provide access to care for a wider population, in essence “keeping the whole herd healthier.” The prevalence of sight-threatening conditions is real and Dr. B hopes that seeing a greater number of newly insured patients will increase prevention and treatment for curable eye diseases. He wants everyone to understand the benefits of the ACA and address common misconceptions about eye care.

UL: What is the difference between

the 3 O’s- Ophthalmologist, Optometrist, and Optician?

Dr. B: I am a medical doctor, licensed to practice medicine and perform surgery.

As an ophthalmologist I provide the full spectrum of eye care from diagnoses to treatment and delicate eye surgeries.

Optometrists are optometric physiciansmany are able to diagnose, treat, and manage most eye conditions, in addition to prescribing corrective eyewear. They do not preform surgery. Opticians are trained to design, verify and fit eyewear using prescriptions supplied by optometrists and ophthalmologists.

UL: What diseases can you detect in an eye exam?

Dr. B: Eye exams are extensive; we detect eye issues such as cataracts, glaucoma,

UL: How does this affect your practice?

Dr. B: This increases my ability to help people!

UL: What are the benefits?

Dr. B: Insurance plans must now provide basic “essential” benefits in 10 categories; eye care is included in 8 of those! Other huge benefits include: • Children can now stay on their parents’ plan up to age 26.

• Insurance companies can’t deny coverage for pre-existing conditions.

• Policies can’t be cancelled at a whim.

• No lifetime price cap on your care coverage.

Crystal Palmer Joel Fricker

North Valley Eye Care | 114 Mission Ranch Blvd., Chico, CA 95926 | (530) 891-1900 1056 Washington St., Red Bluff, CA 96080 | (530) 529-1750 Ridge Eye Care | 14137 Lakeridge Circle, Magalia, CA 95954 | (530) 873-2020 7056 Skyway, Paradise, CA 95969| (530) 877-2250 14

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A Doctor WhoCares: Many of us inherently expect a certain environment when visiting the doctor: stiff handshakes, cold sterility, and an extremely long wait. We have come to terms that when it comes to healthcare you do what you have to do and don’t question the process. Dr. Rhonda Carlson urges the public to think again.

Direct Primary Care is when a physician offers medical services directly to the patient without requiring insurance or medical plan reimbursement for that care. You pay an incredibly affordable once-a-month membership fee based on age that covers significant physician services. Dr. Carlson has been offering quality healthcare within this model since January 1, 2014 and has never been happier. “I know my patients. I hear about their mother-in-law who’s driving them nuts. I know about their circumstances and what’s important to them,” she says.

Back in the day, families had one doctor that they saw for all their basic needs. It worked for everybody. Direct care is getting back to those roots.

When you’re sick you want to be seen by a knowledgeable professional who can treat you with ease and in a timely fashion. Dr. Carlson will get you in for care on the same day or next with no wait. She gets to spend one-on-one time with every individual, assessing needs and being the patient’s medical

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support. What other doctor would take time out of their day to make numerous phone calls around town to find the most affordable testing, prescriptions, or specialty physicians?

Not many.

Doctors want to use their brains to help people. They don’t want to be coders, billers, or data entry clerks, which is often the case with insurance-based practices. All of us are conditioned to think that having health insurance means getting health care. With high deductible insurance plans rising, primary care costs often come directly out-of-pocket. By investing in Dr. Carlson’s membership, “The goal is to avoid or minimize more severe or chronic conditions that trigger high

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Rhonda Carlson, M.D. out-of-pocket costs and take a toll on you and your loved ones.”

Dr. Rhonda Carlson genuinely loves her patients. She greets with a hug, not a pat on the back. There is a sense of empowerment in taking your health care into your own hands and having an advocate entirely on your side. People are paying “tons of money for health insurance with no real care.

We need price transparency in this business.” Dr. Carlson’s decision to move to direct care is the result of her promise as a physician to deliver the best care possible to the patient who receives it. Her practice is ethical, moral, and brings care back to basics. I was taught that we all have a choice and Dr. Rhonda Carlson is out to spread that word.

To learn more about your options visit her website at rhondacarlsonmd.com Alyssa Worley Michelle Camy

Rhonda Carlson, M.D. 10 Landing Circle, Suite 3 Chico, CA 95973 Phone: 530-893-3575 Office Hours: Monday to Thursday - 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

FISHING CAT

NEW RESIDENT TO BUTTE COUNTY: Fishing Cat

This amazing “Fishing Cat” was donated to the Barry R Kirshner Wildlife Sanctuary for our educational programs as an ambassador of their species to create awareness of the loss of habitat and need for more conservation efforts to save their endangered, dwindling population in the wild.

Name: Not yet named Age: 18 weeks Native Area: Their habitat range is in areas of the Terai region of the Himalayan foothills of India and Nepal, in eastern India, Bangladesh and Sri Lanka as well as areas of Thailand, Java and Malaysia.

Food: Their diet consists primarily of fish but studies have shown they will also eat snakes, lizards, crustaceans, mollusks, rabbits, some insects and carrion. Fishing cats will store and cache food to be eaten at a later time.

Fun Fact: In the wild they have been observed “fishing” at the edges of bodies of water, appearing to scoop out their prey from the water source and have also been observed “playing” with fish in shallow water areas.

Barry R. Kirshner Wildlife Foundation | Tuesday-Sunday 9am to 5pm | Kirshner. org | (530) 533-1000 | No appointment necessary except for tours.

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A BRAND NEW ENERGY EFFICIENT HOUSING COMMUNITY: DeGarmo Terrace DeGarmo Terrace Townhome community conveniently located on the Esplanade provides perfect access to beautiful DeGarmo park, schools, shopping, and highway 99. The brand new construction and unique design of the homes provides a luxurious feel with environmentally friendly features and a sense of community.

DeGarmo Terrace’s homes feature highly energy efficient luxury amenities and upgraded appliances. Tankless water heaters provide hot water speedily.

Motion detection lighting in bathrooms will save energy with no extra effort. Hot summer heat stays outside with dual paned windows including a reflective exterior pane while ceil20

ing fans and central air keep you cool indoors.

Layouts vary slightly and provide an open design concept with a community feel. Choose from two different 3 bedroom, 2 ½ bath floor plans. Each home is two story with attached garage and patio area. The 9 foot ceilings, recessed lighting, and open floor plan offer generous space for entertaining downstairs. The kitchen’s spacious granite countertops, self-closing cabinets, and gas stove/oven create an ideal workspace. Upstairs you’ll find dramatic 10 foot bedroom ceilings. The impressive master bedroom suite is a bright spacious area with an en suite bath and ample storage in the walk-in

UPGRADED LIVING | APRIL 2014 | UPGRADEDLIVING.COM

closet. The air gap and sound boarding between you and your neighbor allow for a peaceful independent co-existence with no shared walls!

The community cabana, pool, and fitness area offer a summer oasis right out your backdoor. All units are pet friendly with only a quick walk to the dog park. If your family is seeking a conveniently located community neighborhood, then DeGarmo Terrace is perfect for you. Leasing now!

Crystal Palmer Michelle Camy Call today to set up a tour!

(530) 809-1510 • degarmoterrace@gmail.com

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Unknown Coast Weekend

biking is acknowledged and supported.

Throughout the years, Chico Velo has put money from races towards building new bike paths and giving people bike lights through Light Up Chico to continue making safety a priority. Chico Velo directs its aim particularly at students. “We need to educate kids! Our goal is to make Chico a better place to be and bike,” Janine explains. Their club is devoted to this purpose and they hope to expand as much as possible in the future. Getting involved in one of the four races Chico Velo puts on is one way to help.

Rice Valley Tandem Rally Although this year’s Rice Valley ride has already happened, you might want to keep it in mind as a beautiful way to spend a February day next year. This relatively flat ride winds in a loop around the Sutter Buttes and is open to all riders, both tandem and single.

If you are seeking adventure and exploration, be sure to check out Chico Velo’s tour of the Unknown Coast—an awe inspiring two-day excursion in beautiful Humboldt County. Every year in September, the challenging century ride begins with a pancake breakfast in the quaint town of Ferndale located only a few miles inland and progresses through vast forests of towering redwoods in the Eel River Valley and picturesque views of Cape Mendocino. As you’re riding the winding coastline, Chico Velo transports all of your gear and luggage so it will be awaiting your arrival at the Mattole campground at the end of the first day’s ride. Peaceful ocean waves will echo in the background as you have a rejuvenating night’s sleep to prepare for the ride’s final 35 miles. Returning to Ferndale on the second day, you will have experienced a secluded side of Northern California landscape only available to the slower pace of thin rubber tires against the salty soaked pavement. Be sure to sign up for this remarkable journey soon, the ride is limited to only 125 cyclists!

The Challenge Fondo The Challenge Fondo is a newer race that will be held in October this year. In Italian, Gran Fondo means “great endurance” and that is exactly what you’ll need to complete this half century, half race ride.

While a Fondo is a mass-start, timed event, you don’t need a bike racing license to participate. If you enjoy competing against friends or challenging your own time, this is the race for you. Many people also just ride to finish, which with the tough hilly trails is a feat unto itself! The Challenge

Fondo is dedicated to the memory of Ed McLaughlin and is a perfect way to acknowledge and celebrate all he has done for the local community.

Participating in a Chico Velo Club event will create incredible memories that far outlast the strain in your lungs and legs from pushing yourself to your goal.

To learn more about the Wildflower (or any other race) we urge you to visit their website at www.chicovelo.org.

Alyssa Worley and Matthew Manfredi Michelle Camy and courtesy of Chico Velo

Century Ride Preparation Century rides can be a grueling test of determination and endurance. Being properly prepared and equipped is a necessity. Here are three simple tips to make your race day more fun.

1) Mental preparation: Establish in-race goals to help you advance through the race. A scheduled snack routine can help you organize and reach those goals. Reward yourself with a high-protein snack at each 20 mile interval.

2) Inspiration: Watch bike races on TV and then internet and read about some races. After reviewing the racers who defeat the 2,200 miles on the Tour de France, a century race will be something you can do in your sleep!

3) Observation: Take in the spectacular sights as you’re riding. Springtime will be blossoming all around and will provide a beautiful distraction from tallying up those miles.

Chico Velo Upcoming 2014 Rides: - Wildflower Century Sunday, April 27, Chico, CA - Unknown Coast Weekend September 20-21, 2014, Ferndale, CA - Challenge Fondo Sunday, October 12 2014, Durham, CA

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YOUR RETIREMENT DOESN’T HAVE TO LOOK LIKE ONE.

What matters most about retirement is making it yours. Not what you’ve been told retirement should be. It’s never too early or too late, and with the right planning, it’s not as hard as you might’ve thought. See how we can help you make your retirement a reality at MassMutual.com/NewRetirement

Nicholas P. Spangler Financial & Insurance Services MassMutual Silicon Valley CA Insurance License #0H53699 686 Rio Lindo Ave., Chico, CA 95926 Phone: 530-893-2685 • Cell: 530-354-5715 nspangler@financialguide.com www.financialguide.com/nicholas-spangler

LIFE INSURANCE + RETIREMENT/401(K) PLAN SERVICES + DISABILITY INCOME INSURANCE LONG TERM CARE INSURANCE + ANNUITIES

MassMutual Financial Group refers to Massachusetts Mutual Life Insurance Company (MassMutual) and its affiliated companies and sales representatives. Local sales agencies are not subsidiaries of MassMutual or its affiliated companies. Insurance products are issued by MassMutual, Springfield, MA 01111, and its subsidiaries, C.M. Life Insurance Co. and MML Bay State Life Insurance Co., Enfield, CT 06082. CRN201407-162579

There’s something about

Sherry LandiS

Working with Sherry as my agent was a wonderful experience! She is a hardworking, honest, classy lady bend over “Sherry Landis is by far the bestwho real will estate agent in backwards Chico. She isto make her clients happy. Sherry is very in the real estate business professional, positive, andknowledgeable has incredible follow through.

She helped us and a great professional. can’tthe help but her friendly personality! navigate our wayYou through sale of love two homes and the purchase ofIf you’re looking to buy oratsell thennever Sherry will be the agent for you! another—all theyour samehome, time! She missed a beat.

She made sureYou we will not be disappointed. understood the process, and stayed in constant contact with us. Even after all Hambek three homes closed, she continued to call, email, and text just- Dena to make sure everything was going as planned. We could not have done it without her.”

— Doug anD CoLEttE RobERtS

With of t top and hom dar sit a sittin

(530) 514-4855 | landis4sale@aol.com | www.SherryLandis.com Timeless Chico estate located across from Bidwell Park. Built in 1941 by a prominent architect on 1.3 acres with guest house in the rear of the property.

Massive improvements have been made over last 4 years. The guest house was completely remodeled from the studs up in 2011 and is a legal second dwelling unit. The rear of the main home was completely redone to include a massive outdoor patio with three sets of French doors that open out of the kitchen, dining room, and master bedroom. The result was not only visually stunning, but it transformed the home into a venue that is perfect for indoor/outdoor living most of the year. New landscape (sidewalks), fences, electric gate, and landscaping installed summer of 2012 by arguably the best landscape architect in town. Beautiful grounds with color year round.

EXCLUSIVE LISTING! CALL FOR INFORMATION! In this gated community of Canyon Oaks, you’ll find this beauty on a quiet tucked away street! This Michael Gali home was his very own, until these seller’s bought it! So you get upgrades and one of a kinds that he envisioned for himself.

PENDING Marble, granite, radiant heated floors, and so much more! Call today to see this one-of-a-kind property!

This was the model home and only one owner! There have been many Bed: 5.0 Bath: 4.0 SqFt: 4,430 Price: $1,100,000

LOTS OF LOTS! 1.85 acre piece of property just 1.6 miles past the covered bridge on the right. Build your dream home and feel like you’re on vacation-but you’re home!!! Ahhhh, see birds fly by, go to the creek and catch some fish? Take a walk, or a stroll on the many trails around, the daffodils are starting to bloom — gorgeous!!

Acres: 1.85

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Price: $119,000

Run, don’t walk to be the proud new owner of this great property just across from the famous Outpost in Butte Meadows. These two lots are contiguous and one is on the corner with 3 sides of access, the other 2 sides of access. These lots are commercial/ residential and could be a home with a business, etc. Great, no FANTASTIC opportunity-possibilities are endless!!!!

Acres: 0.78head & 0.89 A terrific Michael Galli floor plan updated and remodeled from to Price:counters, $119,000 plush each toe about a year ago. Stainless steel appliances, granite

upgrades including travertine tiles, upgraded carpets, granite, oversized lot, built in desk in media room, special color paint throughout, draperies, carpets, decorator lighting, exterior and interior painting, lush park like yard, landscaped beautifully with slate water fall, flowers galore and redwood sparkling in ground gunite pool, newer 10x10 outdoor shed, wood stove, NEARLY COMPLETED! youa like granite, trees. RV Access on both sides of the house and two master suites make shows trulyIf like model home. Open floor plan with so many upgrades! tiles, decorator lights, nice fi nishes, eating this home a must see! solid surfaces, pretty fences, and large Bed: 4.0 Bath: 4.0 SqFt: 3,166 Price:bar, $429,000 Bed: 4.0 Bath: 3.0 SqFt: 3,675 Price: $665,000 lot size, this is the one for you! Delighted Call me before my 3 new and excited to present - Josh Leach spec listings hit the next issue home and coming subdivision - please PENDING contact us with floor plans, prices, etc and of Upgraded Living! we will get you in on the ground floor!

(530) 514-4855 Bed: 3.0 Bath: 2.0 SqFt: 1,832 Price: $269,900

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BUYERS!

Yikes!

My homes are selling fast! Call if I can #2 in Production help by listing your home today!

for 2013!

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CA-DRE lic# 01084946

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With the charm and character of yesterday and all the conveniences of today, this home is stocked with upgrades such as granite counter tops, laminate flooring, crown moulding, security system, central heat and air, dual pane windows, upgraded appliances and fixtures. This home also has a large basement perfect for your wine collection, a darling front porch for those warm sunny spring and summer days to sit and relax. 5 bedroom 3 bathroom with a living room and upstairs sitting room.

Bed: 5.0

Bath: 3.0

SqFt: 2,085 Price: $239,000

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Beautiful ranchette in a private setting! Sheltered by majestic trees and built in 1987, this immaculate home offers a peaceful warm ambiance, light and airy rooms, large living room with free standing wood stove, tile counters, and wood flooring. 3 bedrooms, indoor laundry, two storage out buildings, a two car garage, plus a darling sunny Florida room with all the windows facing the beautiful 1.75 acres of total serenity.

Bed: 3.0

Bath: 2.0

SqFt: 1,852 Price: $364,900

Quaint and Sweet! Situated in a great cul-de-sac with open floor plan, formal living and dining room, family room w/ fireplace, and a breakfast nook facing a darling patio. This home has a light and airy kitchen with granite counters, and is open to the family room. So much to offer; call today!

Bed: 3.0 Bath: 2.0 SqFt: 1,650 Price: $279,900

Two commercial properties, each with their own separate APN. The first parcel has 1.6 ac with a 600 sq ft. building structure and has been operating as a nursery for the last 25 years. It is partially fenced, it is on city services and is near park and shopping. The 2nd parcel is on .29 AC and is adjacent to the other parcel.

Price: $400,000

PENDING Lake and mountain view!!! Awesome Kelly Ridge location with a beautiful view of the lake and mountains. This home features 2 master suites (one on each level), china hutch, central heat & air, indoor laundry, huge balcony off the living room and dining room, 2 car garage and carport.

Bed: 3.0 Bath: 3.0 SqFt: 1,663 Price: $189,000

Gentleman Ranchette! Build your dream house on this 3.60 acres of prime soil in a fabulous Durham location. The acreage is large enough to have a small orchard on it or enough room for horses.

Owner may carry on financing on the land for a qualified buyer.

3 parcels, each with their own AP#.

The seller’s house is on one of the parcels, need to be subdivided.

Owner may carry for a qualified buyer Acreage: .14 Price: $69,000

Acreage: 3.6 Price: $179,900

5,000

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Intoxicating views of Mt. Shasta and Mt. Lassen!! This well maintained home sits on 10 acres of total privacy. Featuring a large living room with a free standing wood stove, a newly remodeled kitchen with granite counter tops, custom cabinetry and newer appliances, this home also provides tile and laminate flooring, an over sized bonus room with a wood stove, indoor laundry, water softeners, 2 balconies, a private domestic well plus a shared Ag. well, central heating and air, barn/shop, 4 car carport and much more.

Bed: 4.0 Bath: 3.0 SqFt: 2,240 Price: $435,000

The lake and the golf course are in close distance of this beautiful home! Tucked away in a neighborhood of fine homes, featuring an open floor plan, large living room with fireplace, high ceilings, master suite with walk-in closet, master bath has a large soaking tub, separate shower and dual vanity. This home also offers a security system, indoor laundry, large yard, nice patio with waterfall, 2 car garage and an amazing view of the sunset over the hill top.

Bed: 3.0

Bath: 2.0

SqFt: 1,653 Price: $329,900 33

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CA-DRE lic# 1172646

Ken Martin

(530) 828-9440

realtorchico@aol.com Falcon Pointe retreat with a warm welcoming layout, in a small, gated, private neighborhood which feels like the countryside, while being minutes to downtown,

shopping areas and highway access. 1.27 acres of fully fenced, beautifully landscaped, private park-like grounds and gardens including mature blue oaks, roses, meandering pathways, raised bed vegetable garden, and custom luxury chicken coop. Property is sheltered by many large trees and sits right along Chico’s HCOGF WRRGT RCTM YKVJ VTCKN CEEGUU HTQO VJG RTQRGTV[ # URTKPI ETGGM ĆƒQYU FQYP QPG UKFG CPF QWVUKFG VJG RTQRGTV[oU HGPEG NKPG .KVVNG %JKEQ %TGGM ĆƒQYU LWUV QP VJG QVJGT UKFG QH C SWKGV RWDNKE CEEGUU JKMKPI VTCKN 9JQNG JQWUG XCEWWO 9JQNG JQWUG KPVGTEQO 9JQNG JQWUG UVGTGQ *CTFYQQF ĆƒQQTKPI YKVJ KPNC[ ITCPKVG UNCD counter tops, SubZero refrigerator, cherry cabinets with pull outs and island, 5 burner gas range,. Master suite upstairs with private balcony. Full landscape custom lighting throughout gardens.

Bed: 6.0 Bath: 4.0 SqFt: 4,733 Price: $1,195,000

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NEW AGAIN KITCHEN & BATH PRESENTS:

HOUSE CALL April, 2014: Tarzan’s Palace THE CLIENT From the moment you turn into Gabby’s driveway, you are pulled into a world of new design. A bike sculpture adorns a stump of a tree that was removed against her will, and as you turn the corner into the expansive backyard with a pool embraced by the curves of the house, you can see this home is completely different than any other. Everything is impeccably designed, but nothing is forced. Gabby allows things to be organic while enhancing them with her unique and innovative eye for modern design. In fact, she seeks out these organically wild projects and has the ability to salvage neglected, crumbling buildings and bring them into a glorious new existence. This is how she discovered the dilapidating Lambda Pi fraternity house originally built in 1962 to house 42 pledges.

The Oak Park House, once a

thriving party haven for musical acts and college co-eds who jumped from the balcony into the sparkling blue pool had been overtaken by weeds and ivy. The pool was full of fish eggs and mosquitoes, and the ceiling, which was home to a pair of possum among other creatures, was caving in.

When Gabby first happened upon this property, she hopped the fence to get a look at the wreckage and although she explains, “It looked like Tarzan lived here,” she was enchanted by its history and potential. She purchased the property and for the past six years she’s been working on its revival. With a project this big, she knew she could count on Jason Smith of JDS Builders as a contractor, and for that special granite touch to really complete the kitchen, it was none other than New Again Kitchen &

Bath who came to the rescue.

THE CALL As a designer, Gabby knew exactly what she wanted when she started the project. When she told Ric Powers at New Again Kitchen & Bath about her plans and he came out the same day, had the measurements and fair price to her within three hours, and a contract within twelve hours, she knew it was a perfect match. For New Again, collaboration is the name of the game. “From my initial meeting with Gabby and all through the project, I loved her spirit and professionalism,” says Ric. “Many designers don’t like working with other designers, but I love collaboration, especially with someone with her talent and taste level.” With their tastes and personalities in line, Ric was excited to work with Gabby on a house that he describes as “an absolute palace.”

THE CURE “Gabby knew when she came to our showroom for the first time that she wanted Absolute Black granite.

Usually on the jobsite measure if I see a reason to change or make another recommendation, I do...but in this circumstance I was in complete agreement. With the black beams and other black accents in the home

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construction, Absolute Black was perfect.”

“You can trust Ric,” says Gabby, “When someone in the business tells you something will look a certain way, they often don’t know what they are talking about or they simply lie to make the sale. Ric knows his business. I didn’t want any flecks of green or pearl or color. He said, ‘Trust me, this won’t have any of that.’ When it was finished, it came out better than I expected and that NEVER happens to me!”

Ric’s knowledge of his products and understanding of design was impressive. As his crew came in to begin their work in Gabby’s house, she could see his expertise went much deeper. He truly respected the space in which he was working. In order to protect the newly perfected paint, drywall and carpet, his crew used telescoping posts to hang tarps before they got started on any of the demo or construction. Installing the huge

peninsula and 52 inch wide island was no easy feat and New Again brought in extra guys to make sure the job was flawlessly completed.

The final result is gorgeous. The black granite is clean and smooth, adding depth and luxury to the overall look of the kitchen and dining space. Gabby’s aesthetic and Ric and New Again Kitchen & Bath’s amazing client relations and professionalism brought this historically special house into an exciting new chapter.

It’s great to see such an enthusiastic team coming together to make a dream come true and create something beautiful. “Gabby was a delight to work with and I hope to get the chance to work with her again,” says Ric, “She’s already sent me quite a few customers, and for that I am grateful.”

As Chico matures, the people who have contributed to its architecture, reputation for fun, and strength as a community take pride in revisit-

ing the days and places of their past.

It’s not unusual for Lambda Pi frat brothers of the ‘60s to stop by and tell Gabby stories of The Oak Park House and “the best time of their life.” She laughs as she tells me the story of one man who visited and walked her into the backyard where he pointed at the sky and said, “My friend jumped out of a plane with a 12 pack of beer right there. I was the smoker to help with the landing.” When Gabby asked the man why his friend did that, he said, “For the chicks!” Thanks to Gabby, New Again Kitchen & Bath and JDS Builders, the playfulness and joie de vivre continue to live on in this newly vibrant piece of Chico’s history, and we are inspired by the success of this true collaboration.

Briana Lindstrom Joel Fricker New Again Kitchen & Bath 2502 Park Ave., Chico CA 95928 (530) 899-2888

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Guide to Spring Fashion 2014 “Cock your hat - angles are attitudes.” --Frank Sinatra

This spring, we are inspired by the words of some of the greatest fashion icons. We love encouraging self expression through all types of art-- photography, theatre, painting, glass art, culinary arts, ceramics, writing, construction, jewelry, music, and of course-- fashion design. Finding your own personal style is another way to express your taste and individuality in presenting yourself to the world. In our Guide to Spring Fashion 2014, the area’s best boutiques have come together to show you what’s trending for guys and gals alike, providing some inspiration to add to your spring wardrobe. Bold prints, bright colors and natural fabrics are all in this season for a comfy-chic look. Whatever your twist or unique combination of garments and accessories may be, we love to see the live art fashion creates and springtime sets the perfect runway to strut your stuff. With the variety of styles and boutiques in town, we urge you to support the local economy and express yourself!

“Once you can express yourself, you can tell the world what you want from it.”

-- Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis Briana Lindstrom Michelle Camy, Joel Fricker, Bree Chun, and Ras Smith 41

SPRING SCAPE Spring is almost here. It is the perfect time to get that spring-cleaning done for your gorgeous landscape. Winter is cold and the weather tends to make a mess out of yards.

Now it is time to keep your yard looking beautiful for the upcoming spring. Plant some new bright flowers in your yard, and call your local gardener to give you some creative advice. Don’t be the only person on the block without fabulous growing grass. Make sure to fertilize your lawn in order to keep it healthy and vibrant. Safety is the biggest priority for your yard, especially when there are children living in the home.

Make sure your trees are safe. It is always a good idea to get a deadwood or restoration trim on your trees to keep your home’s landscape safe.

Find out the history of all your trees.

Getting the deadwood out of your tree will also help the tree bloom for the spring. Cambistat is often used on trees to improve health.

Cambistat is injected into the tree, strengthening the leaves, making the tree less vulnerable to stress, and reducing its growth to reduce pruning needs.

M & S Wesley Tree and Landscape Service would like you to have a fantastic upcoming spring and a beautiful yard to be proud of.

Aundrea Roth M & S Wesley Tree & Landscape Service

(530) 343-6809

Is Now a Good Time to Invest?

by Renée Michel Financial Advisor at Asset Management Group Time, and not timing, is what matters when it comes to investing. The markets have once again reached or are near their all-time highs. Many investors are wondering if they should pull their money out and wait for a correction to get back in. It may sound like a good plan but not all of your investments, if you are diversified, may be at their all-time highs.

Market corrections are a normal part of the market cycle. In fact, these corrections can be positive for actively managed accounts as these corrections often provide buying opportunities.

Let’s examine a company most of us are familiar with – Johnson and Johnson (JNJ). The price of JNJ two years before on 3/9/2007

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was $60.26. On 3/9/2009, the bottom of the bear market, the price of JNJ fell to a low of $50.64. During this period of time the fundamentals of the company did not change but the mass selling from emotionally driven investors created a valuable buying opportunity for those willing to buy in a down market.

JOHNSON AND JOHNSON PRICE CHART (Historical Pricing 3/7/09 – 3/6/14)

Investor confidence typically rises and falls with market returns. But history

UPGRADED LIVING | APRIL 2014 | UPGRADEDLIVING.COM

has shown it’s often best to stay the course rather than search for the “perfect time” to invest.

Source: www.yahoo.finance.com; retrieved on 3/7/14 Securities and advisory services offered through Cetera Advisor Networks LLC (doing insurance business in CA as CFGAN Insurance Agency), member FINR A/SIPC. Cetera is under separate ownership from any other named entity.

Renée Michel, MBA 2452 Lakewest Drive| Chico, CA 95928 530-342-2900 | 800-333-2901 (F) 530-342-3925 rmichel@amgchico.com www.amgchico.com

Artisans Galleria

Local artists - Metal Art, Paintings, Glass Art, Jewelry, Wind Chimes, Ceramic Items, Vintage Items and much more!

25 Lost Dutchman Drive, Chico

Esplanade across from Philadelphia Square, across from Wine Time

916-802-7193 530-801-1526

artisansgalleriachico.com facebook.com/ArtisansGalleria

APRIL EVENTS APRIL 1 Leftover Salmon 2014 The Big Room, Sierra Nevada Brewing Co, Chico 7:30 PM APRIL 3 Thursday Night Market Begins Downtown Chico 6:00 PM-9:00 PM Every Thursday THROUGH APRIL 19 Leading Ladies Theatre On The Ridge, Paradise 7:30 PM Thursdays, Fridays & Saturdays 2:00 PM April 6 & 13 APRIL 4 Artists’ Reception Orland Art Gallery, Orland 3:00 PM-7:00 PM Thick & Thin: Amaricana Music and Foolishness Beatniks, Chico 7:30 PM APRIL 7 First Monday Jazz Cafe Coda, Chico 7:00 PM APRIL 10 San Francisco Scottish Fiddlers Laxson Auditorium, Chico 7:30 PM APRIL 12 4th Annual Poppy Walk & 5K Run One Mile, Bidwell Park, Chico 9:00 AM Egg-cellent Eggs preschool Program Chico Creek Nature Center, Chico 11:00 AM-12:00 PM

APRIL 13 Wines of the World Wine Time, Chico 4:00 PM-7:00 PM APRIL 19 Nature’s Tanks Hike Chico Creek Nature Center 10:00 AM-11:30 AM bidwellpark.org Autism Awareness Fair First Baptist Church, Chico 10:00 AM-2:00 PM APRIL 24 Gold Nugget Days April 24-27 Paradise goldnuggetmuseum.com APRIL 26 Nor-Cal Jazz Festival Old City Hall, Redding 2:00 PM-10:00 PM Celebrate the Jewel Chico Creek Nature Center 11:00 AM-4:00 PM bidwellpark.org 7th Annual NAMI Butte County Benefit Walk Downtown City Plaza, Chico 7:10 AM, 7:20 AM, 7:30 AM APRIL 27 Nor-Cal Jazz Festival The Big Room, Sierra Nevada Brewery, Chico 12:00 PM-7:00 PM Wildflower Century Silver Dollar Fair Grounds, Chico Starting times 5:30 AM-9:00 AM chicovelo.org

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“The butterfly counts not months but moments, and has time enough.”

-- Rabindranath Tagore

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