HOME, SWEET HOME
NORTHERN VALLEY LIFESTYLE JUNE 2015 | UPGRADEDLIVING.COM
Find your own in our newly expanded home and real estate section.
+ 10
FATHER’S DAY
ACTIVITIES DAD WILL LOVE
p 52
1
2
UPGRADEDLIVING.COM JUNE 2015
3
FROM THE EDITOR Summer is nearly here, and although the first thing that may come to mind this time of year is the impending Chico heat, this season brings us so many things to
UPGRADED LIVING STAFF
look forward to. Barbecues, pool parties, warm evenings spent with friends, fresh fruits and veggies, cool drinks...the list goes on and on. As a kid, the excitement for
Aveed Khaki PUBLISHER/OWNER
summer revolved around being out of school, my upcoming birthday, swimming, and, of course, a bounty of popsicles. These days, things are a bit different, but
Erin Wenham EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
regardless of age, so many fun summer memories and images revolve around one thing: home. This month we’re excited to bring you a newly expanded home and real estate section, Home, Sweet Home, just in time for summer. If you’re in search of a perfect place to call your own, this section is not to be missed. My fiancé and
Jason Corona
Joelle Cabasa
SALES DIRECTOR
CLIENT COMMUNICATION LIAISON
I have recently taken the leap into homeownership, meaning that our summer plans now consist of backyard projects and preparing the space for a new baby.
Darren Michels
The process of buying a home brought (and continues to bring) with it so many
PRODUCT INTEGRATION & MOBILITY STRATEGY
new lessons. What I ultimately took away from the experience is an understanding
Michelle Camy PHOTOGRAPHER
of what it means to find a “home,” and the pride of ownership that comes along
Alyssa Worley
with it. There’s nothing like walking into a new space and instantly being able to
WRITER
PHOTOGRAPHER
Russell Van Dewark
Matthew Manfredi
imagine yourself there, and feeling like it’s already yours. I could picture the summer barbecues, the sun-soaked garden, and a little one enjoying a popsicle on the front porch. Here at Upgraded Living, we’re happy to be able to provide you with exceptional resources and information that will hopefully lead you to your own “home, sweet home.”
DISTRIBUTION Erin Lizardo ART DIRECTOR
Frank Rebelo
WRITER Kacey Gardner WRITER/EDITOR
Another important take-away from this new home experience: thank goodness for dads! To say our dads have helped us through our overwhelming home improvement projects would be quite an understatement. Without them we’d likely
CONTRIBUTORS
be sifting through countless YouTube tutorials and wandering aimlessly through the hardware store. I am immensely grateful to have a
Alexa Benson
Steve Flowers, MFT
PHILANTHROPY WRITER
MEN’S HEALTH WRITER
bly seem to him. No matter how old I get, I will
Deanna McCoy
Dr. Vimali Paul, M.D.
always look up to my dad with admiration. I’m
AUDITORY HEALTH WRITER
SKIN CARE
dad who is willing to help answer my endless questions, regardless of how silly they proba-
sure that many of you would agree that as a kid it seemed like dad knew everything there is to know about everything. For me that feeling never quite went away. Happy Father’s Day to all of the papas out there, and happy summer to everyone! As al-
Erin Wenham Editor-In-Chief
ways, thank you for reading.
For advertising or editorial inquiries, please contact Upgraded Living at (530) 894-8091 Sales@UpgradedLiving.com
4
UPGRADEDLIVING.COM JUNE 2015
Sonia Starnes
Annabelle Pearl
BEAUTY Q&A
COOL KID WRITER
Kimberly Snyder
Janice Hoffman
READERS’ PIC WINNER
HORMONAL HEALTH WRITER
Dr. Patrick Giammarise, DC WOMEN’S HEALTH WRITER
FACEBOOK GIVEAWAY!
We’re giving away a $50 gift card to the Pour House every Friday throughout June! Visit www.ULMAG.us/FB to enter!
THE PERFECT RECIPE
BE HAPPY at the
POUR HOUSE Enter To Win a
$50 Gift Card Every Friday Throughout June at
www.ULMAG.us/FB ED VOT
Conveniently located off of Highway 99 next to Cinemark Tinseltown 855 East Ave Ste 270 Chico, CA 95926 (530) 893-3000 | ChicoPourHouse.com
5
NorthValleyEyeCare.com 114 Mission Ranch Blvd. Suite 50 . Chico . (530) 891-1900
RidgeEyeCare.com 7056 Skyway . Paradise . (530) 877-2250
For your convenience, our optical is open from 10am - 3pm on Saturdays. Please call for details. UPGRADEDLIVING.COM JUNE 2015
For your convenience, we now have Tuesday evening clinic. Please call for details.
6
FREE FITTINGS & CONSULTATION TUXEDO & SUIT RENTALS CUSTOM BOW TIES GROOMSMEN GIFTS
334 Broadway Street Downtown Chico
(530) 809-1839
FormalEducation.com
CONTENTS
JUNE 2015
COMMUNITY
FOOD
9 The crepe craze comes to Downtown Chico, courtesy of Crepeville
55 Juice your way to better health with these recipes from The Oven.
11 Cool Kids: Girls on the Run encourages positive thinking and healthy habits for young girls.
56 Farm Fresh: Community, health, and self-subsistence prevail at Farmelot.
12 Harold and Catherine, owners of House of Rice, bring Chinatown to Chico.
12
55
14 Mark your calendars! You won’t want to miss out on these events coming your way. 15 Realtor Steve Depa helps to create community one home at a time.
ART 60 The Chico Bonsai Society shares their meticulous commitment to an ancient artform. 62 Community Calendar: Fill up your month with fun!
17 At 45, Ironman triathlete Joanne Gilchrist shows no sign of slowing down.
63 Readers’ Pic: A Father’s Love
20 The AAUW’s Tech Trek helps young women to pursue careers in fields dominated by men.
FEATURES
HEALTH & BEAUTY
32 Keep the kids off the couch this summer with these local day camps.
22 Live the Lifestyle and InMotion Fitness team up for “The Biggest Challenge.”
52 Dad is sure to love these Father’s Day activities—and the whole family will too!
24 How to live a less stressful life through mindfulness.
58 Barber Shop Hop! A word from the Dapper Dans around town.
30 Beauty Q&A: Ditch the dry, cracked heels and dust off those sandals! 50 A total body workout from the ladies of Kaia Fit Chico.
HOME & GARDEN 33 We Built This City: Merlo Park is rich in both beauty and history. 34 Looking for a new home? Look no further! Our newly expanded Home Sweet Home section has you covered. 36 New Again Kitchen Remodeling Presents House Call: In Sync and Under Budget.
58
42 M&S Wesley Tree Service: Not just your local tree trimmers. 46 Antique DIY: An old suitcase becomes the perfect perch for your pet. ON THE COVER THE NEW CREPEVILLE AND BURGERS AND BREW IN DOWNTOWN CHICO
8
UPGRADEDLIVING.COM JUNE 2015
PHOTOGRAPHED BY ERIN WENHAM
CREPE CRUSADERS
BY AVEED KHAKI PHOTOS ERIN WENHAM
W
ith the takeover of fast-food in the
health conscious students commuting from
UC Davis. They opened the doors to their new
1950s, the vast majority of Amer-
San Francisco to UC Berkeley each day.
restaurant in 2002, aptly named Crepeville, to
icans had traded away healthier
Led by the success seen at his first location,
a line that extended down the block; the line
eating habits for the opportunity to gain a few
Derar scouted other locations with similar de-
seemed to remain consistent from that point
extra minutes each day. As new fast food joints
mographics. In 1994 he opened Crepes on
forward.
opened up across the country, “slow-food” lo-
Cole near UCSF, capitalizing on its proximity
The young, health conscious demographic
cales found themselves quickly stifled to the
to medical student residences, and Crepes on
in Davis had spoken, and it was clear that the
point that it seemed fast food was nearly the
Church in the heart of one of San Francisco’s
business was perfect for replication. Philippe
only option available. In the late ‘80s, a new
up-and-coming neighborhoods two years lat-
quit his job in engineering and instead decided
slow-food movement began developing in
er. Focused on providing organic, never-frozen
to devote himself to the restaurant business
San Francisco, and Derar Zawaydeh, was quick
food at an affordable price, the three crepe lo-
full-time.
to embrace it. A family favorite for as long as
cations turned into veritable kitchens for busy
he could remember, crepes provided an ex-
students and professionals alike.
In 2004, amid continuous requests by visitors from Sacramento to open a location in
cellent shell for any type of meal, whether
In 2001, Derar and his brother Philippe de-
the city, Philippe and Derar opened the second
sweet, savory, or simply healthy. In 1991, he
cided it was finally time for the business to
Crepeville on the corner of 18th Street and L
opened his first restaurant, Mission Grounds, in
expand outside of the Bay Area. With three
Street in Downtown Sacramento. Strategical-
San Francisco’s Mission District. The location
successful locations to prove their business
ly placed near the financial, political, and arts
was perfect; located next to a BART station,
model, they began construction on the corner
districts, the location became an instant draw
the restaurant quickly became a hotspot for
of 3rd Street and C Street next to the campus at
for young, driven professionals with little free
9
time to spare. In less than a year they opened
to renovate and expand the pre-existing space
While researching locales similar to Davis,
to make room for the first integration of Burg-
Avenue next to Curtis Park, introducing the
Philippe and Derar came across Chico. Less
ers & Brew and Crepeville in one standalone
brand to the family demographic and relieving
than two hours north from the first Crepe-
building. Now, almost one year later, it’s finally
some of the pressure on the immensely popu-
ville, the demographics matched up perfectly,
ready to be unveiled.
lar downtown location.
and with successes like Madison Bear Garden
Officially opened just last week, Burgers &
The success of the restaurant continued to
and Sierra Nevada, it seemed that burgers and
Brew by Crepeville has already been a hit in
grow, and so did the menu. An outside-the-
brew were both items embraced by residents.
Downtown Chico. Breathing new life into 3rd
box addition of a sautéed mushroom burger
Similar to Davis, there just so happened to be a
Street and Broadway, its charming full-service
to their usual crepe offerings was instantly ad-
location available for the business within walk-
patio adds a bustling focal point to this anchor
opted by patrons. With rave reviews, the burg-
ing distance of the university.
location downtown, while the new pop of col-
er led them to experiment with other com-
In 2010, the brothers opened the doors to
or from the menus inside invites in passersby.
binations, and seeing overwhelming interest,
Burgers & Brew, their first restaurant in Chi-
Offering the Burgers & Brew menu for the first
they decided to make it their next big venture.
co, and as was now commonplace wherever
few weeks of its opening, the new location
In 2007, the brothers opened the first Burg-
they went, the restaurant was met with instant
will soon extend its menu to offer a combina-
ers & Brew in Davis on the corner diagonal
fanfare. Serving lunch, dinner, and open until
tion of the two restaurants’ signature dishes,
from their first Crepeville. Seen with equal
3am, the restaurant quickly made a name for
guaranteeing something for everyone. As the
fanfare to their crepe enterprise, the new lo-
itself as one of Chico’s favorite restaurants for
breeze floats by under the sails covering the
cation attracted an entirely new demographic.
early birds and night owls alike.
patio while we write this piece, there are few
The original sautéed mushroom burger that
With ten restaurants representing the two
sparked their interest in the business headlined
brands and all carrying their fair share of
Philippe and Derar are understandably proud
their menu and won multiple “Burger of the
brews, Philippe and Derar decided it was time
of their most recent enterprise but are quick to
Year” awards in the restaurant’s first year alone.
to brew their own. In 2012, they approached
note that it wouldn’t have been possible with-
Not to be outdone by Crepeville’s meteoric
Sudwerk microbrewery in Davis, and came up
out the support of Chico’s population, the stu-
rise to fame, the brothers found themselves
with their own house brand. Carried in each
dents at Chico State, and the City of Chico for
opening another Burgers & Brew on Sacra-
one of the restaurants, the imperial brown and
assisting them throughout the development
mento’s R Street just two years later.
imperial double IPA paved the way for further
process. The two are looking forward to their
expansion into the beer market.
next venture, a new brewery currently under
By 2010, Sacramento Airport had taken no-
10
course, the popularity of the two brands.
their second location on 24th Street and 2nd
places in Chico we would rather be.
tice of the restaurants, and invited them to set
In 2014, Philippe and Derar purchased the
construction and set to open in Sacramento at
up shop in their new Terminal B location. Pre-
building that once housed World Savings Bank
the end of 2015. We couldn’t be more excited
viously dominated by fast food and corporate
on the corner of 3rd Street and Broadway in
for their success and to see where they take
chains, the offer was an incredible acknowl-
Downtown Chico. Often seen as the heart of
the company from here.
edgement to the slow food movement and, of
downtown, they began an ambitious project
UPGRADEDLIVING.COM JUNE 2015
Cool KIDS
PHOTO COURTESY OF GIRLS ON THE RUN
GIRLS ON THE RUN
Running can free our mind and push our body to limits we did not know we were capable of. We run to clear our minds of negativity, to reach new goals, and chase our dreams. Fifteen-year-old Margie Johnson has found her passion in running and through her volunteer work with a program called Girls on the Run, she has translated her passion into making a difference in other people’s lives. Girls on the Run (GOTR) centers around running while also teaching girls about strength and standing up for themselves. “Girls on the Run is a fun and fulfilling experience!” Margie says with excitement. The girls in the program are in third through eighth grade. They meet for an hour and a half twice a week after school with their coaches for 12 weeks. At the end of the season, a 5k celebratory run is held to honor the girls who put an immense amount of dedication and effort into the three-
or encourages them while they work out. “Sometimes we give the girls a scenario while they run,” Margie says. “For example, one time we described a message on a billboard. If the message was positive, the girls ran, and if it was negative, the girls walked.” A typical day in the Girls on the Run program looks like this: the girls and their coaches meet after school. The girls get a snack and dress in comfortable running clothes. Afterwards they have their warmup, which is either stretching or running. Then, the lesson for the day starts. These lessons teach the girls the message of the program: have confidence, be positive, live a healthy life, and embrace the things that make you special. Following the lesson, the workout run begins, which lasts about 25 to 45 minutes. Girls on the Run is an amazing program that teaches girls their potential is limitless and their goals are never out of reach. We
month program. Anyone can sign up for GOTR through their school. Each school in Butte County has a team that has about 15 girls. GOTR has not only impacted Chico but also has spread throughout the United States and Canada, making a difference in so many girls’ lives. Margie is dedicated to this program, and it shows tremendously! At 15, she has volunteered as junior coach for six seasons, which is a total of three years! Margie’s mom is the executive director of GOTR, and she inspired Margie to join Girls on the Run to help others in the community. As a junior coach, Margie helps teach the lessons each practice and runs with the girls
set goals for ourselves to push our boundaries and test our strength. Goals are meant to be challenging, and because of that, when we accomplish what we set out to do, the results are simply incredible. “My goals for the future of GOTR is to help portray the message of the program,” Margie says. “I hope to continue coaching as well!” Margie is a sweet, caring, and happy girl. I know her positivity and dedication will lead her to a future filled with success.
Cool Kid via Annabelle Pearl
Apparel • Gifts • Home 231 Main Street, Downtown Chico 530-487-7307 /projectkchico
Caring Dentistry from Toddler to Teen Years Dr. Kimberly Lange, DDS General Dentist
650 RIO LINDO AVE. #4, CHICO 343-3137
Annabelle Pearl writes about cool kids each month and at 15 years old she is our youngest writer and quite the cool kid herself! Find Annabelle Pearl on Facebook to suggest cool kids you’d like to shine the spotlight on.
11
House of Rice: Chico’s Own China Town
I
n 1972, South Korean President, Park Chung-hee declared martial law in South Korea and rewrote the constitution to grant himself complete control over the country. Harold and Catherine Park, opponents of this change, found themselves on the wrong side of that constitution shift. Wanted by the government, and in jeopardy of years of imprisonment for speaking out against it, the two obtained a set of fake passports and quickly escaped to Los Angeles. With one suitcase and $8,000 between them, they forged ahead to create a new life for themselves in a foreign country. The two rented an apartment in Los Angeles and set out to find jobs knowing full well that the $8,000 they had wouldn’t last long. Harold promptly picked up a job at Max Factor in Hollywood and took over sales to PX (Post Exchange) stores at US Army bases located in Asian countries. Catherine was hired in sales at Robinson’s, an upscale department store in Beverly Hills. The jobs were grueling, but they provided the funding necessary to start their new lives in the US. Having grown up in one of the most recognized families in South Korea, Harold’s was a recognizable face to ex-patriates of his home 12
UPGRADEDLIVING.COM JUNE 2015
country. Almost nightly, Harold and Catherine would respond to a knock at their apartment door from someone who had recognized him and, believing he still had his family’s money, would ask for funding to help open a store or business in Los Angeles. Eventually, the two grew tired of trying to explain their story to disbelieving visitors; they called Catherine’s sister who lived in Chico and decided to move north. In 1974, Harold and Catherine moved to Chico. The two were granted a $10,000 loan from the bank, cosigned by Catherine’s sister and brother-in-law, and used it to open the original House of Rice the same year in the most affordable location they could find in the city. The Asian grocery store, tucked neatly away behind Italian Cottage on the Esplanade, was barely visible and nearly impossible to enter from the street. After two months of selling fifty dollars worth of groceries each day, Harold realized that there may have been a hole in his original plan. He visited the City of Chico office inquiring about other businesses similar to his own, and found that there were multiple Asian grocers that had gone out of business just as quickly as they had started. Considering the town had four-percent of its population listed as Asian,
this was no real surprise. He rushed back to the store and announced to Catherine that he was changing the business plan — the store would now stock ten-percent in groceries and the remainder would be imported goods. Excited about the store’s new direction, Harold hopped in his van and took off to San Francisco to spend a week in Chinatown. He spent the first five days of his trip scouting various stores and sleeping in his van at night. He finally found a large store on Grant Avenue that seemed to receive considerable foot traffic, and trying his best to act nonchalant, he remained in the corner of the store taking note of what people were buying. Eventually the store owner approached him and asked what his problem was. Harold regaled the store owner with his beginnings in Korea, his departure, and his struggle since. The store owner appreciated Harold’s determination and offered to help. He made a list of the top-selling items in his store and offered them to Harold at wholesal plusten-percent. Harold gladly accepted. The total cost to outfit his small store was $1,700 but he had only brought $1,000 with himself. The store owner offered the remaining $700 in products on credit provided that Harold followed his one rule: advertise the list of items in the local paper
every week for one month. Harold returned home, stocked the store, and placed his advertisements. He sold five hundred woks that Christmas alone. The store owner’s advice had proven to be exactly what Harold needed. He paid back the $700 and placed his next order. The store grew and grew until there was finally no more room to grow. With wall-to-wall inventory towering overhead, Harold and Catherine finally decided it was time to expand. Mack Hill, a close friend and one of Chico’s top real estate agents at the time, proposed moving into the newly built Almond Orchard Shopping Center. Literally ten times the size of their original location, the new location would require an extra $10,000 in inventory alone, not to mention a significant increase in rent. Mack fronted the money for the inventory and along with his close friend Carl Leverance, a high powered local lawyer in politics, helped fast track an SBA (US Small Business Administration) loan for Harold in the same amount. The loan came through two months later and the doors to the new House of Rice opened in October of 1975. Determined to pay the SBA loan off as quickly as possible, Harold began combing through the classifieds looking for a second job. The highest paying job he could find was at the Sierra Lumber Company. He applied for the job and was hired at $8.95 per hour working in the lumber yard. The new job extended his workday from six hours to thirteen, not including the administrative work he had to complete for the store while it wasn’t open. He continued this demanding schedule for four years and used the money he made to pay off the loan as well as open a wicker furniture store next to House of Rice. As the years went by, the store continued to grow and gain popularity; the only complaint heard regularly was that the store was too “out of the way” for college students. Harold and Catherine listened and in 1982 opened a small store in Downtown Chico on the corner of 3rd and Main Street. The store did so well in its first year that the two decided to close the store in the Almond Orchard and focus on the downtown store instead, which they subsequently outgrew within their first year of being open. Again, Mack came to the rescue. His brother-in-law was a Moorehead, one of Chico’s oldest and wealthiest families, so he asked him to help Harold. His brother-in-law offered Harold a storefront in his family’s building on Broadway Street, and House of Rice moved one final time to their current location at 338 Broadway Street. Over the past thirty-three years, House of Rice has become six stores in one. A culmination of the original grocery, import, and furniture stores, it has grown to include herbal medicine, books, and music as well. Harold and Catherine have a rule that states, “If three people ask for something, the store will carry it.” The variety of items in House of Rice proves that they’ve stuck to this rule. With groceries making up 4% of the store’s inventory, you can now find just about anything here. Whether you’re looking for oriental home decorations, exotic teas and teapots from China and Japan, children’s toys, statues of Buddha, cookware, or even incense, House of Rice carries it. It is no surprise that the store has come to be known as Chico’s very own Chinatown. As one of Downtown Chico’s longest standing and most successful businesses, Harold and Catherine credit their success to having had a watchful eye over their finances from Day One. Unlike many business where money comes in the front door and directly out the back, Harold and Catherine have kept a watchful eye on their finances, budgeting properly and spending at the right times. This focus on finance has allowed them to diversify by investing the money saved in other avenues over the years which has helped them weather any downturns in the economy. After forty-one years in business it is difficult to not be truly impressed by all that these two have accomplished in the retail world, which is only overshadowed by their forty-five years of marriage and nothing-is-impossible attitude towards life. We are proud to call them our neighbors in Downtown Chico, and pray that we too can someday reach the zen-like nature of Harold and Catherine Park.
Barrett Benson Wealth Advisor
13
#summerfun JUNE 6 & 7
Patrick Ranch Threshing Bee The 13th Annual Old Fashioned Country Faire and Threshing Bee is upon us! Transport yourself 100 years back in time with an old-fashioned wheat harvest and threshing bee. This year’s activities include a tractor and draft horse parade, tram ride, farmhouse tours, a food court
THRESHING BEE
PICNICS IN THE PLAZA
with hearty sustenance, and live music! Children under 12 get in free. What a day to rediscover history and spend quality time with family and friends. Join the fun June 6 and 7 at Patrick Ranch.
EVERY TUESDAY
Picnics in the Plaza Pack a picnic from home or make the (always difficult) choice of which food truck to enjoy and join the Chico community at the Picnic in the Plaza. Every Tuesday from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. there will be lively entertainment, varying weekly, along with plenty of food and fun. This is a mini retreat during your workday or for kids stuck in the house during their summer vacation!
FORK IN THE ROAD
FIRST WEDNESDAY
Fork in the Road Thank Analise Farmer (The Hunter and the Farmer) and John Geiger (Crazy Dog and Inday's Filipino Food) for the ongoing event that brings together all the awesome food trucks we are lucky to have in town. Their idea to convene food trucks in one location came from the San Francisco Bay Area. They believed it could work in Chico, and they were more than right! Fork in the Road gathers Chico community members fond of food at Manzanita Place. On the first Wednesday of the month from April to September, enjoy live music, beer, and margaritas served by the Chico Elk's Lodge. Follow Fork in the Road on Facebook for updates!
STEVE DEPA BRINGING CHICO HOME FOR 34 YEARS
B
orn and raised in Chicago, Steve Depa made the trek to Chico to attend Chico State in 1977. Excited to escape the big city for mountain life, Steve undershot (or overshot) his geographic estimate by about sixty miles, and instead found himself in the valley. Though not exactly the mountain living he was expecting, Steve made the best of it and soon found our little town growing on him. He began studying accounting at Chico State, unaware that this little valley town would be his permanent home. In 1981, while finishing his accounting degree, Steve and a handful of his friends decided to partner up and open a property management business in Chico. Renters throughout their college experience, the partners knew what they liked and disliked about the property management companies they had worked with. Armed with these observations, they set out to build a business that they felt better catered to the local market. It was his first step in what would turn into a long career in the real estate industry. Steve operated, and further develCONNECT
oped, the property management company for fifteen years, during which time he also opened his own brokerage office in Chico. The new business direction was exactly what he was looking for. His success was directly proportional to the amount of effort he put in and, catering to his social nature, his effort was measurable by the number of people he spoke with. Rather than waiting for the phone to ring, Steve would proactively seek out networking opportunities, leaving no stone unturned in his search for the next client that could benefit from his real estate knowledge. His hard work paid off, as he quickly rose to one of the top producers in the area. Originally focused on selling residential homes, his growing network offered him new opportunities in multi-family investment properties and commercial real estate deals throughout northern California. The added variety of these differently structured sales provided new variety in his day-to-day sales life, and Steve soon found that multi-family properties were the real estate transactions he enjoyed most. The ability to not only play a vital
role in the sale of a property but to also have a lasting impact on the community, neighborhood-by-neighborhood, allowed Steve to feel like what he was doing made a positive difference locally. When it came to sales, it was exactly what he was looking for. In 1995, Steve joined RE/MAX of Chico and has since been presented with numerous awards for both his work in real estate and the local community. Most recently, he was awarded the title “Realtor of the Year” by his peers, and couldn’t be more proud of the designation, though was relatively shy about mentioning it. Of all the awards he’s received, it is by far his favorite. After thirty-four years in the real estate industry, Steve is now selling homes to children and even grandchildren of some of his first clients. A proof of the legacy he has created as a hard-working real estate agent who values integrity above all else, these long-standing relationships with clients are his best testimonial. He now works with his son, Matt, at RE/MAX of Chico and looks forward to someday bringing his younger son on board as well.
You can learn more about Steve and find his contact information at his website, deparealty.com 15
The Local Choice for 30 Years!
VALET BOAT SERVICE
Comfort & compassion in your own home
Butte Home Health & Hospice
895-0462
ButteHomeHealth.com
(530) 596-4406 461 Firehouse Road Lake Almanor, CA 96137
A fundraiser for the North State Symphony
FRUGAL ONLY
$45 EXP. 7/30
HOUSE Friday June 19 & Saturday June 20 6 Vermillion Court / Chico
Local decorators and designers volunteer to furnish and style a Chico home with upcycled and repurposed furnishings, which will be for sale at frugal prices.
Preview Party / $40 Friday, June 19 6:00–9:00 p.m.
Open House / $15 Saturday, June 20 10:00 a.m.–6:00 p.m.
530.898.5984 / facebook.com/FrugalHouse symphony@csuchico.edu / www.NorthStateSymphony.org
80 Declaration Drive, Suite 102, Chico | (530) 342-4SPA | thespa4chico.com
16
UPGRADEDLIVING.COM JUNE 2015
MOVING & STORAGE
LOCAL SPOTLIGHT
JOANNE GILCHRIST
B
ack in 1997, when she still lived in Canada, Joanne Gilchrist saw an ad for a local triathlon. She knew that she could run. She knew that she could swim. She knew that she could bike — and she had a hunch that she’d be able to put all three together. She signed up for the race, which was held at a nearby university, and as it turned out, she was more than able. “I ended up placing first in my age group,” Joanne recalls. “And so I thought, ‘OK, I can do this.’ And that’s kind of what got me hooked.” Joanne moved to Chico in 1999, and after adjusting to the heat, got back into triathlons and has been competing off and on ever since. As of today, she has participated in about 60 triathlons, traveling all over North America and even to Australia in 2009 to compete in world-level triathlons. To date, she has won 12 races as the first female overall, a feat made all the more rewarding because of the fact that she earned many of those titles in her 40s. “It seems like the older I get, I’m getting better, so that to me is a cool part about triathlon,” she says. For those not so athletically inclined (like me), here’s a little background on what triathlons entail: they are made up of three components — a swim, a bike ride, and a run — always in that order. The distances of each vary; you CONNECT
can have a sprint, or what they call a minisprint, all the way up to Ironman and Ultra Ironman distances. Joanne does a combination of all of these, but lately, her focus has been on the Ironman distance, which is a 2.4-mile swim, a 112-mile bike ride, and a full marathon (26.2 miles). Right now she is training for an Ironman race at the end of June in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho. Her training is pretty extreme; at 20 hours a week, it can feel like a part-time job that she doesn’t get paid for, she says. But in the end, sticking to a training plan and meeting a goal pays off in satisfaction. “And I think that also, it’s just fun to compete with people, and especially for me, I’m 45 this year, and that I can compete with younger people and still be really competitive is also a big thing,” Joanne adds. Though she runs like it’s her job, Joanne actually is employed as a registered nurse with the California Department of Public Health. She says her participation in and promotion of triathlons falls in line with her work, because being active is so important not only for physical health but also mental well-being. Joanne is also a pretty strict vegetarian, and it’s important to her to clear up the misconception that you need to eat meat to have enough energy to perform as she does. You can see her doing her runs in a shirt that says “plant-based runner” in an effort to share that message.
In her free time, Joanne spends a lot of time with her dogs, and she loves to travel. She is also a member of the Chico Tri Club, a group made up of triathletes of all levels that offers support, training advice, and social activities. Joanne says that the triathlete community here is fairly large, and she thinks it’s growing. “I think people can see that, OK, I don’t have to be like the best swimmer in the world and I can do it,” she says. “And also I think sometimes people think they don’t have enough time.“ Joanne says that while she devotes a lot of time to training and being competitive, you can still participate without doing as much. “A few hours a week of doing a few swims, and a few bike rides, and a few runs, and you’re good.” While Joanne’s numerous achievements as a triathlete are already awe-inspiring, there’s one big dream she’s still working toward, and that’s to qualify for the Ironman World Championship in Kona, Hawaii. To get there, you have to win an Ironman race in your age group. Her secret goal is to try to qualify at her upcoming race in Coeur d’Alene, but she cautions that it’s extremely competitive, and you just never know who might show up to each race. Though, at 45, she will be at the bottom of her five-year age bracket, perhaps giving her an edge. “We’ll see,” she says. “I’ll give it my best shot.”
Looking to expand your athletic endeavors and meet other multi-sport athletes? Visit www.chicotriathlonclub.com to find out how! 17
OUR TRUE NATURE
Do Good by Aveed Khaki
Philanthropy has always been something close to my heart, as I feel it is for many of you out there as well. It has also been one of my greatest challenges as my availability to truly commit to something, and make the difference I’ve sought to make, has grown increasingly smaller; with that, so has the dream of making that difference. Between the time commitment involved in working with the magazine and our two downtown stores, finding that necessary time to make a difference has seemed more and more evasive over the past few years.
18
by Alexa Benson-Valavanis I used to think that people were good.
When I look back on transcripts of speeches I’ve given during the past ten years at the Community Foundation, one of my most frequently used phrases is, “our true nature is good”. I sight all sorts of examples big and small, obvious and less obvious. Everyday things, we all witness or participate in, like holding the door open for a stranger, or returning the dropped $10 bill to the person walking in front of us. Little things like that but big things too. We give money to people in crisis across the seas. We pull over the car to take the wandering dog to the shelter. We stop our busy lives to
I’ve been fortunate enough to have had a wonderful mentor in philanthropy within arm’s reach, though, constantly whispering in my ear. She has continued to remind me that philanthropy isn’t necessarily about the magnitude of the change one individual makes, but rather the change that can be made from many people making small contributions of themselves to support a cause. I am blessed to have had her guidance over the past few years and honored to share this page with her.
make sure our neighbor, who recently lost a loved one, has dinner, or
As part of our commitment to philanthropy in our community, we are excited to launch Upgraded Living’s new Do Good section. With the help of Alexa Benson-Valavanis, CEO of the North Valley Community Foundation, this section will shine a light on a number of local nonprofits and community-service driven organizations. We hope that each issue will introduce you to a number of new opportunities to make your contribution to that change in your local community, and we look forward to making that change alongside you.
model predicated on the belief that humans are good. We focused on
UPGRADEDLIVING.COM JUNE 2015
groceries, or just a needed hug. We put ourselves in danger for perfect strangers. We even risk our lives for each other. We do this. If you look for it, I promise, you’ll find evidence everywhere. Oh, but here I go again. Forgive me, but it’s one of my favorite things to think about - how good we are and how it spills into the world. I also have the great privilege of living it. Day in and day out I meet people, literally hundreds of them, who want to offer their resources (time, money, skills, experiences, etc.) to benefit our world. To help the children, or older adults, or the environment… The truth is, a decade ago we rebuilt the Foundation with a business removing or reducing the barriers that got in the way of people offering their resources (a lot or a little or anything in between) to the things they were passionate about changing in the world. We created ways to make that giving even more effective. That was it. That’s all we did. We listened to good people tell us what things got in the way of doing good, or in most cases, what stopped them from doing even MORE good. Then we built products and services that aimed at removing those barriers. The results have been tremendous. But that’s for another day. Today, as I thought about writing a monthly column again, I wanted to start out by saying, I no longer think that people are good - I know we are. So, thank you. Just that. Just thank you!
“WINGS OF EAGLES” THE JOSEPH ALVAREZ ORGANIZATION
CHIP: COMMUNITY HOUSING IMPROVEMENT PROGRAM
wingsofeagles.org facebook.com/WingsOfEagles
ChipHousing.org
WHO THEY ARE
”Wings of Eagles” has been providing services to families who have seriously ill children with life threatening conditions for 22 years. “Wings” currently services Butte, Glenn, Colusa, Tehama, & Sutter Counties. (530) 893-9231
UPCOMING EVENTS
Hall’s Harley Annual Hot Wings Cook-Off June 20, 12-4 pm 1501 Mangrove Ave, Chico (530) 893-9231 www.hallsharley.com The Matt Dailey Memorial Softball Tournament June 27th & 28th Nelson Field — Oroville 530.570.2448 or 530.591.3411
WHO THEY ARE
CHIP provides healthy, sustainable and affordable housing and related services to low-income residents in the North Valley. Serving seven counties, CHIP builds single-family self-help housing where future homeowners assist with their home’s construction. CHIP also builds and manages affordable apartment communities. Since 1973, CHIP has constructed more than 2,000 housing units in Northern California and provides resident services such as nutrition and financial education, computer labs, and community gardens.
YOUR DONATION
Donations of time or money are appreciated. Donate at our web site or call (530) 891-6931.
UPCOMING EVENTS
Please join us for a wine tasting fundraiser at Bidwell Golf Course Thursday, June 25 from 5-7 p.m. $5 at the door.
BUTTE LITERACY COUNCIL
FRIENDS OF THE ARTS
ButteLiteracyCouncil.org
FriendsOfTheArtsUpstate.org
WHO THEY ARE
Friends of the Arts is a State/Local Partner to the California Arts Council and promotes communication, education, economic development, art appreciation, advocacy and collaboration in Butte County and surrounding region. Large community events include Artoberfest, Sacred Movement Music Festival, Chico Palio, the Oroville Salmon Festival, NorCal Jazz Festival, Feather Fiesta Days, Lake Oroville Fireworks, Poetry Out Loud, Oroville Parade of Lights, True North Arts, Culture & Media Alliance, Chico Silent Film Festival and BCAC-TV - Channel 11 (public access television).
YOUR DONATION
Arts and cultural activities create community. Would you like to volunteer? We also accept donations and/or sponsorships. Please call (530) 2282860 for more information or stop in at 500 Main St., Suite. 150 in Chico Tuesday - Friday noon-5pm beginning Aug 1.
KZFR: COMMUNITY FUNDED PUBLIC RADIO KZFR.org
For 25 years KZFR 90.1 FM, has been providing an alternative to corporate and government sponsored media. We went live in 1990 with the mission ‘to inform, entertain, educate and enlighten’ providing the widest variety of music, information and news programming you’ll find anywhere in the country. We stream worldwide at kzfr.org. We have a free smartphone app and broadcast 24 hours a day to over six counties covering over 2,000 square miles of Northern
California. We proudly broadcast ‘Democracy Now!’ weekday mornings at 8 and are sure we’ll have something you’ll love.
OUR BIRTHDAY PARTY
is June 13 and you’re invited! Four bands, great food, beverages, and lots of community. Please join us. Details about everything KZFR does can be found at kzfr.org or at 895-0788. Keep it live, keep it local, keep it on KZFR 90.1 FM, and thank you for 25 years of love.
WHO THEY ARE
Butte Literacy Council is a non-profit, entirely volunteer-driven organization, dedicated to supporting efforts to promote literacy in our community.
SOME OF OUR PROJECTS INCLUDE
Short Story Contest BLC supports a Short Story Contest each spring, when writers of all ages in Butte County compete for prizes and recognition. For the Love of Reading In February, BLC will kick off a new
program as we donate a new chapter book to each first grader in Chico Unified Schools. If you would like to learn more about the Butte Literacy Council, are interested in becoming a member, or would like to learn about other ways to contribute please visit www.butteliteracycouncil.com, call (530) 8931020 or drop us a note—P.O. Box 7064 Chico, CA 95927. We’d love to hear from you!
CHICO COMMUNITY BALLET ChicoCommunityBallet.org
WHO THEY ARE
The mission of Chico Community Ballet is to promote dance as an art form, to provide the Northern California region with access to quality dance performances, and to provide an opportunity for young, serious classical ballet dancers to expand and share their talents in a professional performance experience. All dancers train and rehearse year round at Chico Creek Dance Centre, a not-for-profit organization located at 1144 W. 1st. Street, Chico.
YOUR DONATION
Donations are greatly appreciated! Funds raised for the CCB will go towards their upcoming 2015-2016 season of The Sleeping Beauty, December 4-6 at Laxson Auditorium and Outside the Box, a Repertory Dance Concert, April 8-9, at the Center for the Arts. All funds will help support the numerous production costs involved in producing each performance. Please call (530) 893-9028 for more information. 19
AAUW’s Tech Trek:
“You can be anything you want to be.” I can remember both my mom and dad telling me this when I was a young girl. It’s an idea that most parents wish to instill in their children: the world is yours and full of potential; follow your dreams, work hard, and you can do anything you set your mind to. I can’t help but wonder, though, if it had been my dream to become a scientist rather than a writer, would I have had the same success? Would my natural passion have been supported in the same way throughout my formative years in school and in society? It is well noted that women are underrepresented in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields. A study by the American Association of University Women (AAUW) found that among first-year college students, women are much less likely than men to say that they intend to major in STEM. By graduation, men outnumber women in nearly every science and engineering field, and in some, such as physics, engineering, and computer science, the difference is dramatic, with women earning only 20 percent of bachelor’s degrees. The reasons for this are numerous and varied—from educational experiences to implicit bias and stereotypes—and the AAUW provides a number of recommendations for how this disparity can begin to be leveled. One of the AAUW’s own trademark programs — Tech Trek, now in its 18th year — aims to combat the issue by bridging the gap between an innate interest in STEM and a realistic career path. Each summer, right here in Chico and throughout the region and the state, AAUW branches select seventh grade girls with an interest in STEM to attend a weeklong camp at one of eight universities where they can explore their interests and be inspired by women mentors. The Chico branch sends seven girls from public schools to UC Davis in July; others go to colleges including Fresno State, UC San Diego, and Stanford at varying times throughout the summer. At camp, the girls are exposed to a core subject of their choice as well as a selection of rotating labs and field trips designed to explore individual specialties more deeply. All of the classes CONNECT
20
UPGRADEDLIVING.COM JUNE 2015
and activities are hands-on (there are no tests and homework), and the entire camp is run by women— from the instructors, to the directors, to the dorm moms. The girls are busy from 7 a.m. to 10 o’clock at night in a completely immersive college experience. “We stress hard work and fun,” says Chico Tech Trek coordinator Kim Cross. “This camp is not for wimps, but they see how empowering education and information can be, and how empowering women are to other women.” The camper selection process begins in January and the campers are chosen by March. They are first nominated by their math and science teachers, and then the schools narrow down their applicants to five from each school. After the girls submit an application and an essay, there is an interview process. “You have to have a B average in both math and science, but we look for girls who we feel could truly benefit from a week of being with other girls who have like interests,” Cross says. “We had one girl who said to us, ‘I’m with my people. We’re all nerds. It’s a camp of nerds.’ And it’s fascinating to see this. We chose another girl who was a little on the shy side, but we kept thinking, ‘I’m sure she’ll be able to do this, I’m sure she’ll be able to do this.’ And the father said that he took home a different girl than he dropped off. He said that she came back with so much self confidence, and so much enthusiasm, that he couldn’t believe it was the same daughter that he’d dropped off.” All of the girls attend the camp via scholarships, which the association spends the year fundraising to support. This year, the cost of attendance per student was $900. The AAUW branch pays $850 and the girls’ families are asked to contribute $50, if they are able to. In Chico, the biggest Tech Trek fundraiser is the Grandma’s Attic antique appraisal. The branch also receives money from private donors and community organizations. “This is just such a worthwhile project and we do depend on donations to keep it going,” Cross says. “We are always accepting donations; that is so important.”
For more info about attending or supporting Tech Trek in your area, visit www.aauw-techtrek.org
BY KACEY GARDNER PHOTO COURTESY OF AAUW
Nurturing a Love of STEM In Girls
Being there is why I’m here. Joni Ginno, Agent Insurance Lic#: 0732591 1915 Esplanade Chico, CA 95926 Bus: 530-891-5881
Whether you need a question answered, a problem solved, or a claim reported, my job is to make it happen. Like a good neighbor, State Farm is there. CALL ME TODAY. ®
P097193.1
State Farm, Home Office, Bloomington, IL
SYLLABUS 212 MAIN | DOWNTOWN CHICO
21
I have a challenge for you.
As life can often be unexpected, makeup classes are offered on Sat-
Stop what you’re doing for a moment and try to think of a friend
urdays from 9 a.m.–10 a.m. and “Fit Start” appointments can be sched-
or family member who hasn’t mentioned or set a fitness goal over the
uled with a personal trainer if the Saturday class doesn’t work. These
last few years. The challenge is tougher than it sounds. Of all of the
opportunities make getting back on track incredibly easy for those who
Americans who made New Year’s resolutions in 2012, approximately
are prone to falling off track due to responsibilities at home or work.
66 percent of them resolved to better their level of fitness. Of those fit-
The Biggest Challenge recently partnered with Life the Lifestyle, a
ness-minded resolvers, 73 percent gave up on their fitness goals long
local group of health coaches and weight loss professionals who are
before ever meeting them. These resolution makers in 2012 weren’t
walking testimonials to the effectiveness of their program. Well versed
alone either; it is estimated that these numbers show very little varia-
in the difficulty of sticking with a fitness regimen, these health coaches
tion year to year, and it shouldn’t come as much of a surprise. With the
know how to overcome the obstacles that stand in the way of a healthy
pace at which our world moves these days, it is increasingly difficult to
and fit lifestyle.
find the time or commitment to stick to these goals, and though health
Each challenge lasts three short months, and at just $80 per month
should be our first priority, it often falls to last. Of the 73 percent who
for gym members and $109 per month for non-members, the program
gave up on their fitness goals before reaching them, the three most
is not just effective but affordable as well. Non-members receive a
cited reasons were that it was too difficult to follow a diet or workout
three-month trial membership throughout the challenge so that they
regimen by oneself, it was too difficult to get back on track if you fell
may continue to utilize the gym even during their off days.
off, and it was hard to find the time. The Biggest Challenge, one of the
We could simply tout the program and all of its many benefits, but
most successful programs at In Motion Fitness, was designed with ex-
without proof, you would simply be taking our word for it. The program
actly these reasons in mind.
has already done so much for so many, like the Liston family in Chico.
Built for the individual looking to make a lasting change in their physical fitness, The Biggest Challenge was designed to help partic-
One of hundreds of success stories, this family embodies, quite literally, the effectiveness of these programs.
ipants overcome their challenges with weight loss, muscle gain, cardiovascular endurance, and of course, commitment and accountability. Participants are placed on teams based on scheduling to ensure that they have the best opportunity for success in their busy sched-
Tracy Liston had been struggling with her weight for years. An
ules. Each team has its own designated personal trainer who coaches
ambitious businesswoman, Tracy’s job as a Senior Project Manager
team members throughout the program and works closely with their
at Intuit, a giant in the tech industry, kept her busy to say the least.
health coach to provide monthly assessments including body weight,
Even though she primarily worked from home, her job required regular
body measurements, and body composition (lean-to-fat ratio). Teams
traveling, and as anyone with a job that requires travel knows, negative
meet two times per week for approximately one hour and all classes
eating habits tend to creep in relatively quickly. Departing from home
are based on multi-level training, a model in which exercise at one lev-
often takes place at the last possible moment, and health suffers as a
el prepares you for the requirements of more difficult exercises at a
result of eating fast food en route to the destination. As a mother of
higher level. The winner at the end of each Biggest Challenge is the
two, Tracy eventually concluded that the stress was too much; she quit
team with the highest average of percent weight loss and physical im-
her job and chose health and family over her business aspirations.
provement.
22
Dr. Sean and Tracy Liston
Tracy wasted no time in trying to get back to optimal health. She
By offering competition-based training in a team-based environ-
signed herself and her husband to a gym membership at InMotion Fit-
ment, participants are held accountable on multiple levels—by their
ness and committed to making time to work out five times per week.
coaches, to themselves, and to their entire team. By basing the team’s
Her husband Sean, a local physician, committed to three days per week.
success on the average of its members, participants become more like-
After one year of remaining true to their commitment, the two re-
ly to stick to the program and encourage other team members to do
alized that they had not accomplished what they originally set out to.
the same, in essence becoming a support base for one another.
They had increased their amount of exercise and felt more physically
UPGRADEDLIVING.COM JUNE 2015
fit, but their diets hadn’t changed. Even their exercising had plateaued
was one of the best gifts he’s ever given himself. As a father, he models
as they found themselves repeating the exact same exercises day-af-
better behaviors for his kids, and as a physician, he’s a better role mod-
ter-day and week-after-week. Tracy’s close friend, Amy Lacey, had been
el for his patients. According to Sean, there’s no better gift you could
health coaching with Take Shape for Life and offered to introduce her to
give a father on Father’s Day, than the opportunity to feel young and
the program. She decided to pair the meal plan and diet element from
healthy again.
Take Shape for Life with her weekly workout routine.
Tracy was so successful with the program that she went on to join
Tracy began the program in December 2013 and after seeing re-
Amy. She now works as a health coach herself, with Amy as her men-
sults in the first month, pulled Sean in to join her. By the middle of
tor. She takes pride in the work that she does, especially with other
March, Tracy had lost fifty pounds, and Sean had lost forty. Neither had
busy businesswomen like she once was, and uses the opportunity to
even realized they had that much to lose in the first place.
impart what she learned from her experiences upon them. She specif-
The program encouraged the two to embark on a completely differ-
ically notes her work with doctors and nurses, as their common night
ent lifestyle. Instead of eating three meals a day like most of us, they
shifts encourage unhealthy eating habits. Working with these health-
committed to fueling their bodies nearly every three hours with smaller
care providers, she and Amy have been able to customize meal plans
portions of food. They began standardizing the times they ate, and the
that allow them to eat healthy throughout their shift, regardless of
consistency helped them stick to the plan. They ate breakfast at seven,
when it may start or end.
a snack at ten, lunch around noon, another snack at three and dinner by
As Tracy puts it, “There’s never a good time to start; the only time
six. If they were staying up late they had another healthy snack at nine,
to start is right now. Make the time and really commit yourself. Commit
like celery and hummus or greek yogurt with fruit, to hold them over
to the program and make it a priority. It’s easy to maintain once you’re
until they went to bed. The scheduled meals quickly curbed the sug-
in, but the beginning takes some focus.” With results like hers, it’s diffi-
ar cravings they were used to throughout the day and eliminated the
cult to not take that advice to heart.
highs and lows from blood sugar levels constantly spiking and falling.
Tracy’s success in combining the program with her workout at In-
It didn’t take long before the two noticed a significant increase in
Motion led herself and Amy to suggest creating a more permanent
energy. The energy, alongside the heightened level of fitness, allowed
partnership with the gym. The result is a new program that combines
them to further challenge themselves in the gym and take on a new
the health coaching and diet management of Take Shape for Life with
challenge altogether at InMotion’s CrossFit Training Center. The in-
the team-based exercise program at InMotion’s The Biggest Challenge.
crease in energy allowed the two as parents to lead their family in an
The best of both worlds, the program guarantees the tools necessary
ever more active lifestyle. They became better role models for their
to succeed through every step of the weightloss process with the
children and became considerably more disciplined in how they fed
proper coaching throughout.
their kids. The normalized blood sugar levels that resulted for their kids
To sign up for the program or obtain more information on how you
throughout the day immediately were apparent in less crankiness, lack
can achieve your fitness and weight loss goals, contact Amy Lacey at
of mood swings, and a better overall demeanor — something every par-
(530) 321-5962.
ent prays for. Sean sees his newfound health and vitality as one of the best gifts he’s ever been given and the determination to stick with the challenge
If interested in the Biggest Challenge contact Marie Phillips at In Motion (530) 343-5678 | www.inmotionfitness.com If interested in Take Shape For Life contact Amy Lacey at 530-321-5962 | wwwlivethelifestyle.net | amylivethelifestyle@gmail.com 23
H E A LT H
Men’s H E A LT H
REDUCE YOUR STRESS
2565 Ceanothus Ave. Suite 155 Chico, CA 95973 tel: 530-899-3939 | fax: 530-343-9207 chicofamilyeye.com We accept all major forms of payment, and bill most insurance providers
Wouldn’t it be great to reduce your stress by at least 90 percent? Do you dream of such a thing? It may seem that you will finally be able to lay down your burden when you have paid off the mortgage, or celebrated the university graduation of your kids, or perhaps reached the magical land of retirement. I’m sorry to inform you that your dreams of a stress-free and happy future will never be realized by any such changes. This is because it is not the circumstances of your life that are creating 90 percent of your current stress load—it is you. This may seem unfair, as it’s been these dreams that have sustained you and gotten you over one hurdle after another. But please bear with me—it’s actually good news. You can reduce your stress load by 90 percent long before you reach any of these goals, and this benefit can be sustained whether you reach those goals or not. This is because 90 percent of your stress isn’t created by your circumstances—it is created by your way of looking at things. You can begin reducing your stress levels as soon as you become aware of how you are creating additional stress in your life and
become more skillful at moderating your point of view. Now, there are many ways to learn about your personal foibles and how they are creating stress in your life. One way is to ask your spouse, your siblings, or your best friend. They are usually more than happy to tell you what they think is wrong with you. Another (perhaps less painful) choice would be to begin cultivating awareness skills through mindfulness meditation and then employ these skills to investigate your own habits of mind and behavior. Mindfulness practices can help you see and thereby navigate the distressing activities of your mind. We don’t see the world as it is—we see the world as we are, and our way of looking at things is optional. Between the stimulus and the response there is a space, and in that space is our power and freedom. This space becomes more evident when we are mindfully present. No matter what our life circumstances, we will discover there is more we can do for ourselves to reduce stress than anyone else can.
Men’s’ Health Advice via Steve Flowers, MFT Steve Flowers, MFT conducts the Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction Program at Enloe Medical
24
UPGRADEDLIVING.COM JUNE 2015
Center and can be reached at mindfullivingprograms.com.
Snoring ruining your relationship? Many have poor sleep due to a snoring spouse. Sleep related breathing disorders can shorten your life.
If you are a snorer or if someone has noticed that you have pauses in breathing while sleeping (sleep apnea), you have a serious medical problem that can be treated quite easily.
JUNE IS FRUGAL HOUSE MONTH IN CHICO! North State Symphony Benefit Features Fun and Furnishings Frugal House returns to Chico on June 19 and 20. Now in its seventh successful year, Frugal House offers designers a challenge: to create a memorably unique room in the Frugal House, without spending much money. The designers use donated furniture and décor items, and receive a small budget for thrift shop and discount purchases. Many of the items have been repurposed, re-painted, and rejuvenated in various ways by the creative talents of the room designers. And everything is on sale, with proceeds benefitting the North State Symphony! The event begins with a Friday night party on June 19. Party attendees can shop in between enjoying live music and refreshments. The Frugal House remains open on Saturday, June 20, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on an open house basis. All items purchased can be picked up on Sunday, June 21. Tessa Van der Meijden is the symphony’s event chair for Frugal House 2015. The Frugal House is located at 6 Vermillion Circle in Chico. For full information including ticket outlets, go to Facebook.com/FrugalHouse or the symphony’s website, www.northstatesymphony.org.
25
H E A LT H
Women’s H E A LT H
Healthy Skin … from the Inside Out Wouldn’t it be great to know what causes your skin to erupt into blemishes, rashes, or unsightly bumps? It can be embarrassing, especially for women, because unlike other conditions that can occur in our body, facial skin problems are the most visible. Some skin conditions may have something to do with what we place on our skin topically and/or environmentally. That can be an easier fix because when we know what is causing our eruptions, we can stop using the product or reduce our exposure. What you may not have thought of before is that skin conditions can also be about what we place into our bodies. And what do we place in our bodies every day? Food. One of the most frequently overlooked causes of unhealthy skin is an inability to digest food well. No matter what you eat, your body must be able to assimilate the nutrients and eliminate the toxins properly. Healthy digestion means that you need to be able to digest all three major food groups—fats, proteins, and carbohydrates—the body’s essential building blocks for healthy function and healthy skin. Here are just three ways digestion plays a role in healthy skin: First, it’s essential to digest fats for healthy skin. The body needs fat to make healthy cell membranes. If you are unable to digest your fats well, you will tend to develop dry skin, dry hair, and eczema or other rashes.
The digestion of proteins also plays an important role. We need protein for healthy collagen and skin elasticity. Even carbohydrates in balance with fats and proteins contribute to healthy skin, although excessive intake of simple carbohydrates like table sugar can result in increased blemishes and outbreaks. Food allergies, sensitivities, or intolerances make it difficult for your body to extract the nutrients needed by your skin to stay healthy. The side effects of medication and our body’s ability to accept hydration well also plays a role. Secondly, the skin is our body’s largest organ of detoxification. Poor digestion and accompanying chronic constipation produces bowel toxicity that stresses the liver and kidneys. Toxic overload from the kidneys or liver transfers the burden to the skin to eliminate the toxins. This may result in skin congestion, eruptions, or spider veins. Finally, as we age, our digestive system ages too. Aging skin changes, becoming drier and thinner and therefore more susceptible to environmental and chemical irritants. This may result in photo aging or pigmentation issues, loss of elasticity, or extreme dryness. If you have a skin condition you would like to clear up and have not yet considered your skin’s relationship to your digestion, consider going deeper for the solution, because beautiful skin forms from the inside out.
Women’s Health Advice via Dr. Patrick Giammarise 26
UPGRADEDLIVING.COM JUNE 2015
For over 15 years, Dr. Patrick Giammarise, DC, IHS has committed himself to supporting patients and healing their digestive problems and allergies without drugs or surgery. Contact him at the Digestion Relief Center | (530) 899-8741 | www.digestionreliefcenter.com
June Specials Purchase either Juvederm or Voluma dermal filler & get 10% off! Purchase 20 or more units of Botox & get 5 units free! Microdermabrasions 3 for $250 (save $50) Latisse (prescription eyelash treatment) 20% off Accent (JuVaShape) radio-frequency Body Contouring 10% off on a package of 6 treatments All Obagi products 20% off! Massage and Facial special $100
85 Declaration Drive Suite #100 Chico, Ca 95973
(530) 342-2672
Foundations for the Bride Complimentary Bra Fittings Shapewear for all occasions
Bra Fitting
Bridal Registry & Foundations
240 Main Street, Chico (530) 343-3333 HeavenlyBlueLingerie.com
27
“What’s wrong with me?” By Janice Hofmann, Treatment Educator
This may be a question you have been asking yourself for some time now. The answer could be, “My hormones are deficient!” More and more women and men are contacting our office because they feel way below 100 percent; they feel exhausted, stressed, and easily overwhelmed and present with a whole host of other symptoms. These symptoms are often directly related to the fact that the body is no longer producing sufficient amounts of the hormones linked to many facets of health and wellbeing—the same hormones that caused them to feel GREAT in their 20s and 30s. The public is becoming more informed about the connection of hormones to health and about the fact that a lot has changed in recent years, notably the availability of bio-identical hormones. These hormones are administered in a
Do You Ever...
“Just Pretend to Hear?”
Stay connected with the people in your life. Call 888-710-8419 for an appointment.
28
UPGRADEDLIVING.COM JUNE 2015
rhythmic dose that mimics the body’s natural cycle. More and more individuals are also interested in options beyond a lifelong dependence on pharmaceuticals to treat their symptoms—they want to find the root cause of their illness and/or weight gain, mental fog, low libido, and other issues that reduce their quality of life. It is clear that men and women of all ages are interested in learning how their hormones affect their physical, mental, and emotional health. Dr. Nagel will be hosting a free educational lecture on Wednesday, June 24, from 7–8:30 p.m. Please call Quality of Life Medicine at 530-566-9700 to reserve your spot.
Quality of Life Medicine 70 Declaration Drive, Suite. 101, Chico, (530) 566-9700
Our Focus Is Always On You
Collagen: The Building Block of Beautiful Skin by Dr. Vimali Paul Collagen is one of the principal components of young, healthy skin. Together with elastin fibers, collagen forms the support structure that keeps skin firm and hydrated. It is made up of a chain of amino acids that provides a framework for nerve fibers, hair follicles, blood vessels, and oil and sweat glands. Since healthy collagen cells are what binds moisture into the skin, the aging process can decrease this ability to keep hydrated. Then the skin will become dry, tight, and dull. We stop producing collagen at about age 35, but technology has brought us a way to rebuild our collagen levels! With the use of lasers, a “wound response” is created to trick our skin into rebuilding and creating new cells. It’s like when you scrape your skin—a scab forms almost immediately to protect it from further injury and to rebuild healthy skin underneath. The laser
introduces a thermal injury to the collagen cells, forcing them to protect themselves from more injury by regenerating new and healthy cells. Once collagen is revived, those cells are firmer and plumper, smoothing out surface lines and wrinkles that have formed due to dehydration and lack of elasticity. These laser treatments are tolerated well by all skin types and are relatively pain free. No down time is required, and a series of at least three treatments is recommended. Schedule a free consultation at the DermBar Med-Spa, 530-342-2672, to see if this collagen- enhancing treatment is right for you!
The Derm Bar Med-Spa 530-342-2672 85 Declaration Drive Suite 100 Chico, CA 95973
29
Beauty
BEAUT Y
Q+A
GET SUMMER SANDAL READY Golden Key Spa
LONDON TIMES
NEW SUMMER FASHION!
6181 Skyway, Paradise (530) 876-0877 M-Sat. 10 AM - 5 PM & till 7 PM on Wed.
30
UPGRADEDLIVING.COM JUNE 2015
How can I prevent my heels from getting too dry and cracked during the summer? As the warm weather rolls around, you may be tempted to kick off your shoes and go barefoot. Unfortunately, doing so can damage to the skin on your feet. The constant exposure to air dries out your feet causing calluses, which can sometimes crack. If you are one of those people that must be in sandals or barefoot regularly, here are some things you can do to heal your calluses and cracked heels. Before going to bed, soak your feet in warm water for 15–20 minutes. Then scrub your feet with a pumice stone, being careful not to irritate the cracked areas. It will gently slough off the dead skin cells, revealing smoother skin. Rinse off your feet, pat them dry, then liberally apply a foot cream or body butter. Slip on a pair of socks, and you will wake up with happier feet. Repeat the process until the calluses and cracks are gone.
of polish on your toes, or rotate between a few hues, pick up matching bottles of polish from the salon for at home touch-ups. Apply a layer of clear top coat every few days to minimize the chances of the color chipping. Also avoid the pool, as the chlorine can eat away at the polish. If you can’t avoid the pool, then be sure to rinse your feet with water immediately after getting out of the water.
How can I keep my pedicure looking fresh between visits to the salon?
What is a paraffin wax pedicure and what are the benefits? A paraffin pedicure is a spa treatment during which paraffin wax is applied to the feet to moisturize the skin on the feet. After the wax has been applied to the feet, they are wrapped in plastic and then warm towels. This keeps the paraffin warm for a longer period of time, adding to the moisturizing benefits for the feet. For people who have chronically dry skin on their feet, a paraffin pedicure can be a great option. Both the moisturizing properties of the paraffin and the heat help to soften and improve the skin all over the feet, especially in
Moisturize your feet as soon as you get out of the shower. If you can, avoid wearing socks and closed toe shoes for at least 8 to 12 hours after your pedicure. If you always get the same shade
tough, calloused areas. A paraffin pedicure can also help people who suffer from cracked skin on their feet, which is common in the area around the heel of the foot.
Expert Beauty Advice via Sonia Starnes, Professional Manicurists Sonia Starnes is a Professional Manicurist at Mecca Salon & Spa. Located at 1342 Esplanade in Chico. Contact her at (530) 892-8746.
I’M TOO YOUNG TO FEEL THIS OLD!
Loss of Strength & Poor Results Even Though You Workout? Hormone Replacement Therapy can give you:
C RUiSE T O C ABO !
- energy - renewed motivation - muscle mass - better performance - clarity of mind
Win a Vacation Cruise to Mexico
Find out how Dr. Nagel uses bio-identical hormone replacement therapy & nutritional education to help you achieve Quality of Life! Join us for our FREE education series:
MCKENNA FAITH | CHAD BUSHNELL | MADISON HUDSON BAND | BLACK SLAX | BANG DATA
ico
A
SummerfestChico.com
Life in Ch
SummerfestChico
JULY 22 Testosterone & Men’s Health
7:00-8:30PM
&
lebration of e C
od, Music Fo ,
JUNE 24 Estrogens’ Link to Breast Cancer
7:00-8:30PM
August 22
Space is limited. Please call the office 566-9700 to reserve a spot. Refreshments served + Raffle.
MANZANITA PLACE 1705 Manzanita, Chico 3:00pm-9:00pm 70 Declaration Drive, Suite 101, Chico (530) 566-9700 31
School’s Out! What Now?
It can always be a challenge to keep the kids busy during the summer. If you want to minimize time spent in front of the TV or playing video games, check out one of the many fun and educational day camps our area has to offer. GATEWAY ASTROCAMP
Blast off! The Gateway Science Museum’s AstroCamp makes astronomy come to life through PROGRESSIVE SCHOOLHOUSE
hands-on experiments and exploration of our solar
SUMMER ARTS PROGR AM
system. Activities are aimed at enhancing skills in
Let the kiddos color outside of the lines this summer.
math, physics, and astronomy all while having fun.
The Progressive Schoolhouse Summer Arts Program
4th–6th grades, July 13–17
is aimed at encouraging a creative and independent
7th–9th grades, July 27–31
imagination. Students can choose from a variety of
www.gatewayscience.org
artistic endeavors, from painting and sculpting to ceramics and theater, all designed with the individual in mind.
CSU, CHICO ADVENTURE DAY CAMP
June 15–July 31
For the kid who craves adventure, CSU, Chico offers
www.progressiveschoolhouse.com
weeklong day camps focused around physical activities such as swimming and rock-wall climbing. Camps are led by Chico State students in youth-re-
CAMP CHICO CREEK
lated fields. Kids can participate in fun games, sports,
What better place to learn about nature than in the
and demonstrations that vary week by week.
heart of Bidwell Park? During this nature educa-
Ages 6–12
tion day camp, kids will learn awareness of nature
June 8–August 7
through hands-on science labs and enjoy fun
www.csuchico.edu/recsports/summer-camp/adven-
games, arts and crafts, and swimming in Big Chico
ture-camp.shtml
Creek. Teens ages 12–17 can also apply to be Junior Naturalists (counselors in training). Ages 5–11
June 5–August 14 www.BidwellPark.org
STAY COOL + CONSERVE! Unfortunately for Chicoans, this drought isn’t going away anytime soon. That means we have to get a bit creative about cooling down and staying water-conscious during these hot summer months. Here are some ideas for beating the heat while conserving our precious H2O.
GET SOCIAL Instead of turning on the sprinklers or filling up the pool, head to a natural body of water or public pool to enjoy some aquatic fun.
.Chico Creek .Lake Oroville and Forebay Aquatic Center .Sycamore Pool at Lower Bidwell Park .Paradise Recreation Aquatic Park .Shapiro Pool - Chico .Pleasant Valley Pool - Chico .Dwight Brinson Swim Center - Durham .Nelson Pool - Oroville STAY INSIDE .Head to the library, gym, movies, or your favorite local shop
.Create a summer reading list—get lost in a good book and forget about the heat!
FUNLAND & CAL SK ATE SUMMER CAMP Skating, air hockey, ultimate frisbee, miniature golf—what more could a busy kid want? These are just a few of the fun summer activities offered at the
.Try a fun new board game or science experiment
.Have an indoor picnic or campout (who says tents are for outside only?)
CHICO AREA RECREATION AND PARK
Funland Extreme Fun day camp hosted by Cal Skate
DISTRICT CAMPS
in Chico. Kids can stay cool in the air-conditioned
SEEK SHADE .Challenge restless kiddos to create a shady
CARD offers a variety of summer camps for anything
skating rink or head outside for batting practice or
fort or teepee in the backyard
your youngster might want to explore. Dance, dra-
water games. All activities are supervised by a “profes-
ma, sports, cooking, farming, music … just to name
sionally fun” staff.
a few! The kids are sure to stay busy and entertained
Ages 5–12
this season.
June 15–August 7
REUSE, REUSE, REUSE
Ages 3–17
www.funlandchico.com
There are countless ways to recycle water
.Invest in shade-creating plants and structures for your backyard
from around your home and reduce waste.
June–July
Collect excess water from your shower or
www.chicorec.com CHICO ROCKSTARS MUSIC CAMP Any kid who is eager to explore the world of music will love this fun and educational day camp. Kids can get an introduction to various instruments, such as guitar, piano, and drums, as well as learn about singing and overall music theory. Both beginner and
sink and use it to fill water balloons, squirt guns, or even water your grass, which has a cooling effect on your home.
MAKE “COOL” TREATS Try your hand at making homemade
intermediate musicians are welcome!
popsicles, ice cream, or frozen yogurt. The
Ages 5–18 (classes organized by age)
kids will have a fun, hands-on experience
June 8–19 www.chicorockstars.com
and you’ll all get a refreshing summer treat! There are countless recipes (even healthy options) online.
32
UPGRADEDLIVING.COM JUNE 2015
WE BUILT THIS CITY
BY MATTHEW MANFREDI
PHOTO ERIN WENHAM
A PARK AMONG THE PINES In the infant years of the 20th century, a businessman from Ohio named Columbus Barber set off on an expedition. His objective: to find timber for the production of wooden matchsticks. Barber found exactly what he was looking in the vast forest of Butte County with its high volume of sugar pine. His entrepreneurial skills would soon create job opportunities, attracting people from all across the globe. The Diamond Match Factory was built in 1905, and the township of Stirling City would soon emerge on the outskirts of the Lassen National Forest. Clotide Merlo was among the many that made Stirling City their new home. She and her son moved from Italy after her late husband was killed in World War I. A hardworking woman who loved the outdoors, Clotide would eventually go on to operate a boarding house located just north of the mill. She would soon take Joseph Merlo’s (the brother of her late husband) hand in marriage and the two would go on to raise a family in Stirling City. She continued to run the boarding house and raised all of her sons while they attended Horace Brakebill School. Joseph would continue work at the Diamond Match Factory. In the years following World War II, she and her sons moved to the Bay Area, where she helped them finish their education at UC Berkeley. Her son Harry Merlo would go on to become the founding president and CEO of Louisiana Pacific Corporation, one of the foremost forest product companies in the world.
Harry was inspired by his mother’s hard work ethic and love of the peace and quiet of the mountains and wanted to honor her memory. He returned to Stirling City in 1987 to dedicate a park in honor of his mother. A master plan was developed by the Chico State Parks and Recreation Department for a park to be built in the same area where Harry Merlo grew up. Several ponds, a waterfall, and a rose garden surround the 20-acre park, capturing the serenity of the beautiful mountain landscape. Recent additions have been made, including a copy of Michelangelo’s “The Pieta,” which is cast from a mold of the original work that resides in the St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome. The chapel has been the site of many weddings over the years and continues to be reserved for the summer season. Merlo Park is a remarkable hidden treasure that makes our corner of Northern California truly unique. If you find yourself driving up the Skyway with an unexpected sense of adventure, follow those yellow and white lines until you get to Stirling City. You’ll be surprised what you find. “Whether it is enjoyed as a place to wander, picnic or a wedding venue, the Park offers the visitor unparalleled beauty, quiet and an opportunity for reflection.” —Michael Batz, Merlo Park caretaker and manager Call 530-873-1658 or visit the Clotide Merlo Park Facebook page for more information.
Over the past eight years, a lot has changed in Upgraded Living Magazine, but one thing has remained constant — home has always been the nucleus for everything. Each one of us at Upgraded Living considers northern California our home and it’s undoubtedly why we’re so excited to scout out new stories, discover hidden gems, and deliver information that we feel will encourage you to love our home as much as we do. We truly feel blessed in the opportunity to live where we do and we have no doubt you feel the same! As Erin mentioned in her editor’s note, she and her fiancé recently took the next big step into homeownership, and they certainly aren’t alone. With historically low rates available, and housing prices that have finally normalized, more and more people are making the smart decision to find that place that they can call their own. With that in mind, we’re excited to present a new section in Upgraded Living appropriately titled Home, Sweet Home. Comprised of some of the best real estate for sale in northern California, renovation inspiration, DIY projects, and information on those who can help you turn a house into your home, it should prove to be a valuable resource for homebuyers and homeowners alike. As with any new section, we hope it evolves into everything you want it to be. Feedback is, as always, greatly appreciated. Please send thoughts, questions, or ideas to home@upgradedliving.com. We’ll look forward to hearing from you! Enjoy!
CHECK IT OUT! 33
There’s something about
Sherry LandiS
Still cruising with Century21 after 25 years!
“Sherry Landis is by far the best real estate agent in Chico. She is We met Sherry through the sale ourincredible first home.follow Since through. that time,She Sherry has assisted us professional, positive, andofhas helped us in selling three houses and purchasing two. Sherry always looks out for our best internavigate our way through the sale of two homes and the purchase of ests and gets us the best deals possible. If an open house is needed, Sherry will spend another—all at the same time! She never missed a beat. She made sure we her weekend holding an open house. If we have questions at any time of day, Sherry understood the email process, and (even stayedif in constant contact with us.asEven after all will respond through or texts she is on vacation). As far we are conthree homes closed, she continued to call, just close to make sure cerned, Sherry is the only Realtor we will use. Youemail, can’t and help text but get to her and was going as planned. We could notSherry haveLandis done itif you without her.” think everything of her as family. We would greatly recommend are interested in selling or purchasing a home. She will definitely get theanD bestCoLEttE deal andRobERtS look out —you Doug for your interests. - Scott and Marcia Bauer
(530) 514-4855 | landis4sale@aol.com | www.SherryLandis.com
This custom built home in a sought after gated community just outside Paradise has so much to offer. The front yard is lush with custom drought-resistant landscaping and greenery for excellent curb appeal. High 10 foot ceilings throughout with custom crown molding in living and dining rooms. Hardwood floors are throughout main living spaces. Quality ceiling fans in all rooms. There is central heating and cooling with special appointments, which include a voltage regulator to extend electrical components. There is a surround sound system in the living room which extends to the upper deck. A “Nest” system regulates the main house heating and cooling to decrease and monitor energy use which may be controlled from your phone or IPad or from a small device on the wall. So much to list! Call and see it all for yourself today! Bed: 4.0 Bath: 4.0 SqFt: 2,852 Price: $525,000
Paradise at its best! Feel like you’re on vacation yet you’re in your very own serene setting that you are fortunate to call home!! Tennis anyone? Maybe you’re going to be enjoying the shade of the mature trees, by the stream which is also among this beautiful setting- or possibly baking some cookies in your updated kitchen with solid counter tops, hard surfaces in the bathroom and gorgeous wake flooring in the kitchen!! Great value at this price!
This was the model home and only one owner! There have been many upgrades including travertine tiles, upgraded carpets, granite, oversized lot, built in desk in media room, special color paint throughout, draperies, landscaped beautifully with slate water fall, flowers galore and redwood trees. RV Access on both sides of the house and two master suites make this home a must see! Bed: 4.0 Bath: 4.0 SqFt: 3,166 Price: $429,000
Yikes!
Bed: plan 4.0 updated Bath: 3.0 and SqFt: 2,711 Price: A terrific Michael Galli floor remodeled from$359,000 head to toe about a year ago. Stainless steel appliances, granite counters, plush carpets, decorator lighting, exterior and interior painting, lush park like yard, sparkling in ground gunite pool, newer 10x10 outdoor shed, wood stove, Clean and pretty Sierra Sunrise unit with upgraded appliances, newer carpet shows truly like a model home. Open floor plan with so many upgrades! in main area of home and a beautiful view out the balcony! Run, don’t walk as this one just won’t last!! Easy to show Live like you’re on vacation close Bed:enjoy 4.0 the Bath: 3.0ts of SqFt: 3,675setting, Price:morning $665,000 to lakes, walking trails and benefi peaceful sipping coffee listening to chirp chirp!! Bed: 2.0
Bath: 2.0
SqFt: 1,300 Price: $210,000
My homes are selling fast! Call if I can #3 help in Production 2014! by listing for your home today! Any closed transaction receives a gift certificate to
CA-DRE lic# 01084946
Tucked away in a upscale neighborhood & sheltered by majestic Intoxicating view! Where the eagles soar, this captivating residence Conveniently located between and in home gated community, this home is truly magnifi with soaring walls ofcent glass, gleaming trees, here you will find your dreamChico home. ThisParadise beautiful sits shielded behind ironcent gates. This homeceilings, is truly magnifi with wood fl oors, six inch interior walls, lavish living room with fi replace, formal and informal dining wet bar, gourmet three is designed for indoor/outdoor entertaining and is loaded with towering ceilings, wallsrooms, of glass, gleaming wood kitchen floors, awith lavish livingsinks, granite counter tops, designed hood, Bosch appliances, convection and warming ovens, two HVAC, Jack & Jill bedrooms, master bath upgrades. You will love the generously proportioned rooms, the room, formal & informal dining, gourmet kitchen, granite counters,with 2 head shower, and a jetted tub, almost 1300the ft of covered porches and 3 car all6”oninterior almostwalls, 2 acre parcel. Thegarage ambiance gorgeous wood fldual oors,vanity the formal living and dining rooms, cozy designer hood, 3 figarage, replaces, 2HVAC, 3 car andis peaceful with a view of the sunset and city lights. You’ll breakfast on the patio watching the mountain ranges and at night simply relax and enjoy family room with it’s fireplace, guest quarter, expansive master suit, more all onan almost 2 acre parcel. The ambiance is peaceful with your unobstructed view of the star speckled sky. Also included is 1/40th interest in adjoining 232 acres green belt. large kitchen with can lighting, breakfast nook over looking a beautiful views of sunsets & city lights. You will breakfast on the patio watching private yard, 3 car garage, gated R.V. parking all on almost one ace the mountain ranges & Sutter-Buttes. At nightSqFt: simply relaxPrice: & enjoy your Bed: 4.0 Bath:3.0 2,839 $499,900 of total privacy. unobstructed view of the star-speckled sky. Bed: 4.0 Bath: 3.0 SqFt: 2,501 Price: $487,500 Bed: 4.0 Bath: 3.0 SqFt: 2,389 Acreage: ~2.0
PENDING The lake is only seconds away from this beautiful home! Tucked away Pirates will squeal & scurry for this hidden treasure! The delightful, large The view is stunning!! Sheltered by majestic tall trees and guarded by the iron gate, this dramatic home offers a peaceful ambiance and a in a quiet neighborhood, this well maintained home offers a darling front porch of this gorgeous home provides relaxation and a great breathtaking view from every room. You’ll love the large living room, delightful family room and the formal dining all with their own fireplaces. gated porch, perfect for summer days to sit upon and relax. Inside place to get to know your neighbors. With soaring 10 and 12 foot The home was recently remodeled with slab granite counters, wood laminate flooring, travertine tiles and new appliances. This beautiful home you’ll find an open floor plan, high ceilings, tile counters, and wood ceilings, this home features walls of glass windows providing ample boasts a gourmet kitchen with pull out drawers, an office in addition to its 4 bedrooms, security system, central vac, water softener, 2 heating, flooring throughout. Tile floors in the kitchen and bathrooms, fireplace natural lighting, crown molding throughout, bamboo flooring, a cozy and 2 air conditioning systems, back up generator, electric blinds, and power for R.V. hook up. There are numerous French doors that lead to a in the living room, walk-in closet, mater bath with dual sink, separate fireplace with mantel, built-in bookshelves, cabinets with glass doors, dream terrace. The 3 car garage includes built in storage cabinets, workshop counter, and a sink. The gated community provides outdoor pool, shower and a tub. The yard is maintenance free so you can enjoy life a darling kitchen, 3 bedrooms and a loft, indoor laundry, a beautiful individual storage rooms for each home and R.V. area. This beautiful home sits a midst towering tree, you’ll relish walking the paths of nature as by spending more time by the lake canoeing, fishing, or just enjoying patio with fountain and Zen-inspired landscaping plus 2 car garage. the seasons change, watching eagles soar or just sitting on the terrace and enjoying the incredible view and only 15 mins to Chico. walking the paths around the area. Bed: 4.0 Bath: 3.0 SqFt: 3,538 Price: $599,950 Bed: 2.0 Bath: 2.0 SqFt: 1,346 Price: $269,000 Bed: 3.0 Bath: 2.5 SqFt: 1,739 Price: $309,000
PENDING Two commercial properties. The This home features granite views of Mt. Shasta and Mt. Lassen!! This well maintained A quiet country lane leads you to Country living can be yours! A quietIntoxicating country lane will lead you to this wonderful half acre Ranchette. This firstthis parcel has 1.6 withof a pastoral counter tops, laminate flooring, home sits on 10 acres of total privacy. Featuring a large living room peaceful 8+AC acres home has an unassuming charm that complements the environment. The soft cascades of lights and 600setting. Sq ft. building that molding, security system, with a free standing wood stove, a newly remodeled kitchen with You’ll structure be drawn to the crown shades on this home add a timelessness where today, tomorrow, or week need not mean urgency. In was built in 1979 and has been heat and air, dual pane granite counter tops, custom cabinetry and newer appliances, this warmth of this lovely home. You central this special place you will find a bright airy kitchen, a delightful living room that looks out over a peaceful operating nursery the country last windows, upgraded appliances home also provides tile and laminate flooring, an over sized bonus will love as its a open floorfor plan, setting and a large family room perfect for large gatherings. This house was recently updated with fresh 25 kitchen, years. It ispellet partially fenced, is and fixtures. This home also has a room with a wood stove, indoor laundry, water softeners, 2 balconies, stove andit bright paint, new appliances, kitchen counter tops and new fences. The property line goes to the second white on rooms city services is near that and convey anpark aura of large basement perfect for your a private domestic well plus a shared Ag. well, central heating and air, fence in the back. There is plenty of room in the yard for garden, pool and family orchard. Here, whether happiness. Call today! and shopping.Must The see. 2nd parcel is wine collection and storage! barn/shop, 4 car and much more. working in the garden or just relaxing, your tension willcarport seem to vanish. Bed: 3.0 toBath: on .29 AC and is adjacent the 2.0 Bed: 2.0 Bath: 2.0 Bed: 4.0 SqFt: 2,240 Bed: 3.0 Bath: 2.0 SqFt:Bath: 1,7763.0Acreage: 0.56 Price: Price:$399,900 $329,000 SqFt: 1,560 Price: $289,000 other parcel. Price: $400,000 SqFt: 2,085 Price: $239,000 39
New Again Kitchen Remodeling Presents
House Call
June 2015: In Sync and Under Budget
Todd and Christine Thompson, both born and When Frank and Jan Condon met in the ’60s, they were total opposites. He was a marine in Vietnam and she was a hippie, Frank recalls. But over the years they came to find common ground — figuratively and literally. Both avid runners, for years they’ve participated in competitive running events throughout the region and nationwide. Frank (aka “Speedy”) holds three age-group world track records — a 5:11.44 for the indoor mile in the 65-69 bracket, a 2:17 in the 800 meters for the same age group, and the fastest time ever run by a 68-year-old in the 800 meters, 2:18 — and Jan was the national 65-69 champion in the indoor 400 meters in 2006. Frank is also a realtor, and Jan is a semi-retired occupational therapist, children’s book author, and local volunteer. Upon meeting them, it’s plain to see — the days of opposites attract have been left in the dust; these two are totally in sync.
The Call
The Condons have lived in their home on Bay Avenue in North Chico since 1991, and Jan says the kitchen was in bad need of a makeover. They wanted a space that was more open, modern, and functional. So, they enlisted the help of longtime friend and contractor Dave Beasley, who suggested they get in touch with Sean Feng of New Again Kitchen Remodeling and visit his showroom. “We went from talking about doing the kitchen for years, to actually doing it,” Frank says. “Between Dave and Sean’s advice on different cabinets, and tiles, and countertops, we put it together.”
36
UPGRADEDLIVING.COM JUNE 2015
BY KACEY GARDNER PHOTOS BY MICHELLE CAMY
The Couple
The Cure Dave reconfigured the kitchen, a feat with that involved some real engineering, Jan says, including moving walls, adding a support beam, and creating a utility room. “It was quite a job,” she says. New Again Kitchen Remodeling provided their shaker-inspired, spiced-birch cabinets and installed their beautiful raw-slab Brazilian Green granite and new sink and faucet fixtures. “It’s just a whole ’nother gorgeous space,” Frank says of the end result, adding that it’s a great environment to have a cup of coffee in the morning, with light streaming in from the kitchen window. But the best part, in his view? The job fit their budget. “We got a brand new kitchen, that aesthetically is just so pleasing to us, and yet we still had some money left in the bank at the completion of the task,” he says. Frank, who recently won a Century 21 Emerald Award for selling 31 homes in a mere eight months, comes face to face with a lot of people in his work, and he says he wouldn’t hesitate to recommend New Again Kitchen Remodeling to any of his clients. “Sean’s the first business card that I hand out when they talk about ‘Well, after we move in, we’re going to redo the kitchen.’ So much of a construction job, or a remodeling job, is the communication, because you always hit a bump in the road somewhere. You know, you open up a wall and you get surprises and you have to make adjustments. And Sean and Dave were the perfect problem solvers.”
CONNECT
New Again Kitchen Remodeling | 2502 Park Ave, Chico, CA 95928 | 530) 899-2888 37
SHASTAN HOMES
Shastan Homes is in the process of bringing you two exciting new neighborhoods: Shastan Homes at Glenwood and Shastan Homes at Hancock Park. Both subdivisions offer the same high quality building program and house plans that Shastan Homes is famous for. Architect Frank Glazewski has designed all homes to be beautiful on the outside with exceptional floor plans on the inside. All homes are built with energy efficiency and water conservation in mind. Many customers are even reporting $0 electric bills.
Shastan Homes at Glenwood: Located on the far west side of Chico along the quiet “Green Line”. Go west on W. Sacramento Avenue, take a right on Glenwood Ave., then another right on Wisteria Ln. Shastan Homes at Hancock Park: Located on the
far North East side of Chico near upper Bidwell Park. At Pleasant Valley High School, go north on Marigold, then right on Patriot and follow the signs to Champlain Way. Please come visit our neighborhoods to see our “A Team” at work!
HERE IS OUR LIST OF TALENTED CONTRACTORS
Architecture Frank Glazewski, 894-5001 Appliances Ginno’s Appliances Scott Dilg, 342-2182 Cabinets Armstrong Cabinets Brian Shirley, 342-5533
Carpet, Window Coverings, Wood Flooring Towne Carpet Henry Iyone, 343-0215 Ceramic Tile Hinkle’s Tile Joe Hinkle, 693-0735 Ceramic Tile Shower Pans Pickering Hot Mop John Pickering, 321-7586 Countertops Ginno’s Appliances Kevin Skinner, 342-2182 Electrical/High Voltage Telic Electric Dave Rudolph, 520-0796 Electrical/Low Voltage - Defcon Security Bill McNeir, 990-2587 Electrical Fixtures - Northern Lights Joe Tilton, 893-8008 Excavations/Backhoe George Neary, 330-3151 Fencing - M & M Fence Mike Smith, 624-3775 Final Cleaning - Annette’s Mop & Bucket Annette Perez, 354-0369 Finish Carpentry - Sam Leaf Construction Sam Leaf , 518-2230 Fireplaces - A-1 Stoves Steve Bruffy, 345-9292 Concrete Flatwork & Foundations Andy Sprague, 864-3273
Framing-Construction & Framing Services Jim Ratekin, 624-4165 Garage Door Sharp’s Locksmithing Tyler Sharp, 533-5713 HVAC & Sheet Metal Jessee Heating & Air Mike Gray, 891-4926 Interior/ Exterior Doors Advanced Door Co. Jim Poole, 894-7000 Landscaping - Sunchasers John Goddard, 624-7000 Landscaping Plants Timshell Nursery Craig Thompson, 521-9125 Maintenance & Whole House Fans - Pappa’s Tool Box, Bob Keller, 521-3257 Masonry Chuck Reynolds, 990-8310 Painting Casey Swaim, 520-6424 Pool Sunshine Pools Ralph Merlo, 521-0365 Plumbing & Fire Sprinklers Knight Construction Tim Knight, 624-5179 Roofing - G & R Roofing Elaine Rios, 518-7760 Sheetrock - Butte Drywall Rick Woodcock, 693-0148 Solar - SunPower Corporation Jay Halbert, 520-3146 Stucco - Mid Valley Lath and Plaster Lonnie Joyner, 680-0491
Windows, Mirrors, Skylights, Shower Doors Miller Glass Jim Beltramo, 624-6213
To learn more about how Shastan Homes and the A Team can help you make your dream home a reality, visit www.shastanhomes.com or call Jay Halbert at 520-3146.
Mary McGowan
(530) 518-8888
Maryhmcg@gmail.com CA BRE # 01119659
No Expenses Spared! 2003 Victorian replica on1.09 acres of beautifully manicured lawns, gardens, tree lined walks, fountains, gazebo, and wrap around covered porch, all completely private surrounded with trees and hedges. Formal entry, sunny parlor, open kitchen family rooms, downstairs master suite, sun room, media room, office, 2 additional rooms, loads of storage, whole house fan, huge laundry room, and loads of windows and skylights capturing the breathtaking outdoors. High end solar panels, 3 car garage with one bay for an RV and another for a shop w/ wood stove, detached boat and ride on lawn mower garage? The list goes on. Bed: 3.0 Bath: 3.0 SqFt: 3,842 Price: $650,000
Elegance and style on a beautifully landscaped acre with an outdoor kitchen, gorgeous pool, room to play soccer, huge covered patio, and private garden area. Nothing was spared starting with the glamorous entry, formal living and dining rooms with butlers pantry, open kitchen and family rooms with wet bar, high ceilings, beautiful crown and baseboards, newer appliances, granite counters, eating bar, island, nook area, 3 fireplaces, loads of storage, many walk-in closets, separate office/den, over sized 4 car garage, owned solar system, and the list goes on. Bed: 4.0 Bath: 4.0 SqFt: 4,124 Price: $650,000
Home Sweet Home! This 1950’s Farm House on 1 acre boasts a spacious country kitchen with pine cabinets and iron lift style latches, tile counters, dual sink, antique range, formal dining and living rooms with fireplace, bonus room, inside laundry, basement, walk-in closets, loads of storage throughout the home, 2 HVAC units, well, PG&E gas and electric, great views and an abundance of windows making the home bright and cheery. Beautifully landscaped front and back yards, carport, shop, RV potential and room for 4-H or a horse are only a few of the wonderful amenities. This beauty is close to town but nestled amongst neighboring orchards and away from city lights making star gazing one of the owner’s favorite activities. A must see! Bed: 3.0 Bath: 3.0 SqFt: 2,241 Price: $439,000
Becky Prater
(530) 520-0308
beckysbuys@yahoo.com A Provencial Charmer!! Special features include a large bonus room with free standing stove, spacious beamed ceiling dining room, well placed living room with corner fireplace, extra 1/2 bath for easy outdoor access, large bedrooms, and views throughout home of the private backyard, covered deck, stone walkways, cottage style work shop, and picket fencing! Many updates including newer roof, automated sprinklers, windows, floor coverings, and carriage style garage door. Desirable end of cul-de-sac location on a very peaceful street... Must see this sweet home to appreciate!!!” You won’t be disappointed.
www.BeckysBuys.com CA BRE # 00772540
Bed: 3.0 Bath: 3.0 SqFt: 1,759 Price: $309,000
PENDING
PENDING
This home offers so much you won’t believe it! You’ll have room to roam on this huge lot with detached double car garage, beautiful pool recently updated with new pool pump in 2014 and fun slide! There is garden area with big tomato plants already producing and artichokes to eat! You’ll also find the shady patio area outside the big picture window from the living and dining rooms and a cute newer shed! Bed: 4.0 Bath: 2.0 SqFt: 2,402 Price: $295,000
COMING SOON!
Wonderful home with large rooms for everyone! The living area has a fireplace with gas already plumbed to it for ambiance or to take the chill on winter evenings, and it opens to the dining room ( being repurposed as a music room currently) and the kitchen and nook. Owner’s have replaced the roof, heating and air and floor coverings in the last few years and its in tip top shape! Bed: 4.0 Bath: 2.0 SqFt: 1,670 Price: $286,900
Cute home on one of Chico’s favorite streets! Cozy home with extra large yard and beautiful in ground pool! Low $300,000’s! Wonderful in town Estate! Over 3500 sq. ft with 5 acres, pool, custom built home- $600,000’s! 39
NEW CONSTRUCTION
Beautiful West Side of Paradise! 4 BR, 2.5 BA upscale home offering granite counters, custom cabinetry on two acres with a view. Top quality throughout ~ appliances, HVAC, windows, 50 year roof, acrylic stucco and so much more. #595 Kandice Rickson 530.872.5892
$524,500 CANYON VIEWS!
Amazing custom built 4BR/3BA home on 5+ ac. Gorgeous granite in kitchen, beautiful wood floors. Downstairs family/ media/exercise room w/separate entrance! Att. 3-car garage; Wait until you see the detached 24x40 garage/shop. Master bedroom suite, jetted tub, dual lavs & tiled floors.
Julie Rolls - 530.520.8545
$520,000
CUSTOM BUILT HOME!
TWO HOMES
- 3.44 acre parcel! 2785 sq. ft. w/ high ceilings, custom doors, Charming garden, wood floors, handmade tile in kitchen, walk in pantry w/ prep area. 2nd home: 2110 sq. ft., large entry. Some mahogany floors - recycled from old railroad cars! 2BR/2BA, & great office. So much more! #704
Heidi Wright - 530.872.5890
$430,000
872.5880
(530)
6635 Clark Rd. Paradise, CA 95969
CalBRE#01844065
3BR/3BA on 1.17 Acres w/Creek. Stamped concrete walkway,
formal dining, gourmet kitchen. Master BR w/ large walk-in closet. Bonus guest area w/ en-suite & extra family room. 2 patio’s, 2 car gar. + 1 car gar. Custom R.V./Boat Parking. #396
Brian Voigt - 530.514.2901
$549,500
Of Paradise
www.RemaxOf Paradise.com Serving all of Butte County 40
UPGRADEDLIVING.COM JUNE 2015
872.5880
(530)
6635 Clark Rd. Paradise, CA 95969
CalBRE#01844065
Of Paradise
Serving all of Butte County
www.RemaxOf Paradise.com
NEWLY REMODELED ON HALF AN ACRE IN THE PINES! Brand new rear & front redwood decks & new carpeting throughout. Kitchen w/new stainless steel appliances, granite countertops & refinished cabinets. The open living room has vaulted wood beam ceilings and a sliding glass door that opens up to the back deck overlooking the yard. $169,000 #1108 David Connell 530.321.8920
TURN-KEY READY! 3BR/2BA on a quiet Cul-De-Sac, fully landscaped yard, remodeled kitchen w/Granite counters, newer custom cabinets, extra deep Kohler sink & custom tiled floors. Spacious living room, remodeled master bath, covered porch with custom tile. Two Car garage.
3BR/3BA UPDATED HOME. Large kitchen w/beautiful granite counters, Brazilian Cherry hardwood floor, living room w/ vaulted ceiling, bonus room/w walk in closet, bathroom, and extra storage. Backyard w/ fire pit area, raised garden beds, fruit trees & grape vines. RV parking, 2 car garage. $329,000 #714 Heidi Wright 530.872.5890
VIEWS, UPGRADES AND SECLUSION! 3BR + bonus room w/space for entertaining, open floor plan, easy access to the covered back deck. Luxurious master suite, 3 car garage, on 5+ acres. So much more.
CUTE & CLEAN 3 BR/ 2 BA home in lower Magalia. New carpeting, laminate flooring in kitchen/dining room. Spacious kitchen, new counters, breakfast bar. Living room w/ wood stove & heat circulator. Large fenced backyard, great for BBQ’s & relaxation. Master BR w/large closet. Plenty of built in storage & att. 2 car garage.
PRIVACY--PRIVACY--PRIVACY!!! Amazing 4+ acres that is all level & usable with a remodeled 3 br/2 ba. home!! Country style kitchen w/ new cabinets, knotty pine tongue & groove ceilings. New lighting & fan fixtures, newer dual pane windows with pine trim. Brick & tile hearth with a free standing wood stove!
$179,900 #507 Kandice Rickson 530.872.5892
$299,900 #695 Rhonda Maehl 530.873.7640
GREAT OPPORTUNITY to make this HUD home shine again! This three level home has 3BR/2BA, over 2000 sq ft. of easy living in the Pines! Granite counter tops with lots of room, open vaulted ceilings, ceiling fans, jetted tub. Large game room on the lower level that opens to the back yard. The possibilities are endless. $156,400 #1252 Julie Rolls 530.520.8545
LOVELY 2BR/2BA, w/new carpet, paint. Large sunny living room with vaulted ceilings, gas fireplace, laundry in unit. Large master with attached master bath & tons of storage! Kitchen with pass through, eat in dining area, stainless appliances. Att. one car garage w/carport, walking trails along the lake. In 55+ Sierra Sunrise!
BEAUTIFUL HOME, close to Bille Park. 3BR/2.5BA gorgeous, updated kitchen. Large living room w/vaulted ceilings, 2 bay windows, wired for surround sound. Large master suite with updated bathroom, granite counter top, & walk in closet. Fully fenced in back yard, large patio, 2 storage sheds, RV/ boat parking.
$219,900 #235 Julie Rolls 530.520.8545
$245,000 #401 Shannan Turner 530.872.3822
DESIRABLE LOCATION! 3BR/2BA home on .52 acre. Large deck entry, open floor plan w/lots of natural lighting. Dining room, living room with vaulted ceilings. Spacious kitchen w/lots of counter space. Covered patio, fenced back yard & fenced garden area. Under house shop with power, 2 car garage, RV parking.
SUPER CUTE move in ready home. 2BR/2BA Large rooms with bonus room, two attached shops, and a two car garage. Beautiful grounds with seasonal stream. Indoor laundry, pantry and storage shed. Many new updated amenities. RV/ extra parking, shed. .27 acre.
$219,500 #856 Annette Gale 530.872.5892
$215,000 #971 Jamie McDaniel 530.872.5891
SWIM ALL YEAR! Centrally located, 2825 sqft home with beautiful gas heated built in swimming pool, large deck great for entertaining, garden area, many fruit trees, shop and so much more! Home features basement with bathroom, utility sink and separate entrance. $264,500 #849 Nikki Sanders 530.872.5889
“
Nobody in the World Sells more ® Real Estate than RE/MAX
$272,000 #304 Brian Voigt 530.514.2901
$449,900 #505 Susan Doyle 530.877.7733
Each office is independently owned and operated.
41
42
UPGRADEDLIVING.COM JUNE 2015
Word began to spread in each neighborhood where they found work and they
prise that M&S Wesley Tree Service officially
soon found themselves answering referral
began serving our community only seven
calls from friends of clients who had been
years ago. In that short period of time, the
impressed with their service. Rather than
once small startup company has grown by
celebrate their newfound success, they
leaps and bounds, making a venerable
instead chose to invest every dollar they
name for itself as not only the premier pro-
made back into the company, purchasing
fessional in tree care service, but in commu-
more equipment to help scale their business.
nity service as well.
Within a few months of being open, the two
Dreamed up in 2008, Marc and Shuree
were able to purchase their first boom truck
Wesley recognized a gap in the local tree
(now aptly nicknamed Old Faithful), reliev-
care industry, and sought to fill it. Citing a
ing some of the stress involved with Marc
need for greater education about the trees
having to climb each tree they serviced.
that filled our wonderful city, the two dedi-
Rather than turn down jobs that required
cated the year to researching information
equipment they didn’t have, the two creat-
on proper planting, maintenance, and
ing an account with a local rental compa-
treatment of the species most commonly
ny to rent the necessary items. Though they
found locally.
made significantly less per job, they made
In 2009, armed with the knowledge nec-
a commitment to provide the same level of
essary to extend the life of trees, rather than
service to each person that was willing to of-
simply cut them down, the two opened the
fer them work, and to never say, “no” when
doors to M&S Wesley Tree Service. With one
it was offered.
black truck and a trailer bed borrowed from
The following year, another local tree
a close friend, Marc and Shuree set out to
company called Redwoods to Roses decid-
make a name for themselves. Marc visited
ed to retire their business. Marc and Shuree
a local equipment company and used his
drafted an agreement with its owner, Dan
credit card to purchase the most afford-
Gibson, to purchase the company’s chipper
able chainsaw he could find. He reached
and bobcat — two very large purchases for
out to the same friend who loaned him the
a startup company. Dan extended a one
trailer bed and secured space in his yard
year credit to them in the agreement and
to park the trailer each night and house
the couple worked twice as diligently to en-
his chainsaw and climbing gear. Shuree
sure that the purchase was paid off in the
created her marketing plan and hit the
same period of time.
streets, walking home-to-home, neighbor-
In 2010, word had begun to spread
hood-by-neighborhood for six hours each
through neighboring cities about the qual-
day hanging door-hangers and introducing
ity of work M&S Wesley Tree Service was
their new company to anyone that would
providing and they soon found themselves
open the door.
offered a position to bid for a job with the
After a few weeks of non-stop network-
City of Corning. The company won the bid
ing, the first handful of calls began to trickle
and took over work on maintaining five hun-
in. Marc and Shuree visited each home to-
dred trees throughout the city. The scale of
gether and remained there until the job was
the project required additional employees
completed, working together afterwards to
and another boom truck to be able to serve
ensure that the yard was left even cleaner
both communities simultaneously. They ap-
than it was when they arrived. As the num-
proached another local equipment com-
ber of jobs grew, their eldest daughter Aun-
pany, negotiated a ninety-day extension of
drea stepped in, helping the crew and en-
credit on a used boom truck, and paid the
suring that work was completed in a timely
entire $15,000 purchase off before the three
manner.
months had elapsed.
BY AVEED KHAKI
Now ubiquitous with tree care in the Chico area, it may come as a bit of a sur-
PHOTOS ERIN WENHAM + COURTESY OF M&S WESLEY
M&S Wesley Tree Service:
Growing With Higher Standards By 2012, the company had grown to the
lot, the business finally has everything it
point where Shuree could step away from
needs at its disposal to efficiently service the
working full-time in the administrative side of
five-hundred-plus tree care jobs it under-
the business. She focused on their marketing
takes each year throughout Northern Cal-
efforts instead, and joined every committee
ifornia. 2,000 square feet of this new com-
and networking group she could. Realizing
plex has been set aside from the offices and
that public relationships were just as import-
service bays to house the new wood and
ant as the level of service they provided, she
furniture gallery that is set to open in a few
soon found her schedule filled with meetings
short months. Rather than chip the wood
and community events. Over the following
obtained locally, Marc and Shuree plan to
two years the company became known
have it milled into slabs and turned into her-
just as well for their community service as for
itage furniture. Each piece of furniture will
their tree service.
come with information on the history of the
Now, seven years since they first opened
tree — where it was located, its age, and
their doors, Marc and Shuree have reached
why it was removed. In this way, those that
their biggest milestone yet. The company
purchase furniture made from these trees
has expanded its service radius to include
will know that the items were not made by
Redding in the north and Sacramento to
harvested wood, but rather wood sourced
the south. Equipped with two chippers, two
through recycling.
stump grinders, three boom trucks, a chip
Most recently, M&S Wesley Tree Service
truck, thirty-four chain saws and their very
was awarded the City of Chico contract
own crane, M&S Wesley Tree Service can
and now maintains every city tree in the
take on just about any project thrown at
Chico area, a huge testament to their repu-
them. Proof of that can be found in the pho-
tation as a company. They have also begun
to the left where they removed two 75+ foot
to work closely with CARD (Chico Area Rec-
tall redwoods that had begun to danger-
reation District) to help inspect trees under
ously lean off of the homeowner’s property.
their jurisdiction and ensure their safety for
Though the removal of the two redwoods
the general public. They continue to pro-
was one of their most complicated projects
vide selflessly for their community through
to date, the majority of their projects have
volunteer work with Habitat for Humanity,
focused on increasing the lifespan of our
and beautification efforts around town
community’s trees by treating them before
including the Christmas tree lighting and
they’re too far gone to save. They’ve invest-
Earth Day flag installations in Chico, tree
ed heavily in equipment that allows them
maintenance for the Centerville children’s
to do just that. Tools like the Resistograph®
playground and museum, and a number of
allow for a deeper look into a tree’s core to
other events and charities.
determine whether a tree is sick or compro-
With the impressive list of accolades
mised. The Air Spade® helps assess its root
earned over the past seven years, we can’t
system which is the source of most tree-relat-
help but be excited to see where they go
ed problems. Finally, their injector-kit allows
from here and what the next seven years
them to administer treatment directly into a
have in store for them.
tree’s vascular system which is better for the
For more information, or to schedule
tree and neutralizes any harmful effect the
a tree care consultation with these local
treatment would have to those around the
do-gooders, please call (530) 343-6809 or
tree if it were administered normally through
visit www.mswtree.com.
spraying. The company recently moved into its
WHY M&S Wesley? When selecting a tree care specialist, it’s important to ask research a few points to make sure you’re hiring the right one for your job. Here’s how M&S stacks up: Education With over 70 yearly continuing education units necessary to maintain the accreditations listed below, it is no surprise that education is a huge component of what makes M&S Wesley Tree Service stand out. Each and every certification further assures that you are receiving the very best in tree care possible.
Accreditations M&S Wesley Tree Service prides itself on being one of the most accredited tree care companies in all of northern California. Certified Arborist In the dark ages, when someone had a diseased arm or leg, they would simply cut it off. Hundreds of years later, we know better. Doctors can treat, and most often cure, what ails us instead of simply amputating — the same goes for trees. Made up of a complex vascular system, trees are in need of someone who understands their internal structure just as much as we are. Certified arborists are considered tree doctors as they have received the training necessary to operate on trees rather than simply cut them down. Certified Tree Care Safety Professional (TCSP) Working on trees is one of the more dangerous jobs out there. Between the risks from climbing, hazards like power lines, and potential instability in tree structure by the time a tree care professional is called, it is important to know that your tree care specialist has been trained in ensuring their own safety as well as those living around the tree. All employees at M&S Wesley who care for trees are TCSP certified. Municipal Specialist Where (as well as how) trees are planted and cared for are often protected by local ordinances, city codes, etc. Hiring a tree care professional with the Municipal Specialist designation ensures that the changes you make to your trees are done in accordance with the law, saving you from potential fines or ticketing. Utility specialist When trees overgrow, they often find their way into potential hazards like power lines above and pipe networks below. A Utility Specialist is trained to work around these utility services to minimize the damage and downtime in services to both your home and the homes of others in your neighborhood. M&S Wesley tree service is Electrical Hazards Awareness Program (EHAP) Certified as well. Tree Care Industry Association (TCIA) Certified Belonging to TCIA is essentially the gold standard for tree care companies. TCIA certified companies undergo rigorous screening and education to guarantee that they are always up-to-date on how to operate safely and efficiently based on industry standards.
new home at the corner of East 20th Street and Park Avenue. With over 6,000 square feet of building space and a full one acre 43
530.680.5255 Deb@DebSprague.com Broker Lic# 1900748
This house is a modern piece of art! Designed by SF award-winning architect, David Kesler, here Mid-century modern styling meets top-of-the-line quality, beauty and efficiency. Nothing was spared: Chef’s kitchen, Butler’s pantry, oversized refrigerator and freezer, Brazilian Pecan hardwood floors, custom cabinetry, quartz countertops, 7-Zone audio system, home theatre, 7ft fountain and reflecting pool, drought-friendly plants and hardscape, and spectacular sunsets over the valley. The property is located in the prestigious gated community of Casa Del Rey. If this isn’t enough, drive ten minutes to wake board or float your boat on beautiful Lake Oroville!
Bed: 4.0
Bath: 3.0
SqFt: 3,021 Price: $567,000
BUY WITH ME, PAINT FOR FREE!* AD Deb Sprague (.5) AD Lana Gunn (.25) AD Oakley & Jeremy (.25)
*Restrictions Apply. Call for details!
Oakley McElhinny, REALTOR®
ColorFast Custom Painting
CA BRE #01968773
CA LIC. NO #954949
530.571.7712
44
Jeremy Wolfe
Century21 Jeffries/Lydon
UPGRADEDLIVING.COM JUNE 2015
530.717.3967
STUNNING LAKEFRONT situated on a quiet cul-de-sac in California Park. Magnificent, open concept - gourmet kitchen living space, with a spacious WIFI Home Entertainment Center. Granite counters, custom 'Knotty Alder' cabinets and doors, natural travertine stone tile floors, natural 'Three River' stone on exterior, and interior walls, elevator, walk-in-pantry, two master suites, one on each floor. Close to schools, shopping, and the Canyon Oaks Country Club. Take advantage of your private boat dock and enjoy boating on beautiful California Park Lake, gorgeous sunsets, fabulous walking trails. Bed: 4 Bath: 3.5 SqFt: 3272 Price: $788,000
Parker Realty
Serving Butte County
COUNTRY VIEW ESTATE! on 3.43 Acres of mostly level useable land! Overlooks largereservoir. 2 Car garage, large deck, plenty of room for RV’s, trailers, boats or whatever!
NEWER CUSTOM HOME! 2004 built home, Soaring ceilings, great room, tile, gas fireplace, Large master suite, split floorplan, concrete patio, Cul-de-sac setting, centrally located!
GORGEOUS HOME WITH EXCELLENT VIEWS! Set on 4.56 Acres this lovely home is sure to Impress, massive vaulted ceiling, large view Deck, office area, Country feeling just moments from services!
Bed:3 Bath:2 SqFt:2194 Price: $299,999
Bed:3 Bath:2 SqFt:1918 Price:$286,500
Bed:3 Bath:2 SqFt:1581 Price:$269,900
STUNNING PARADISE HOME! Pride of ownership exudes from this immaculate home. Open kitchen, large living room, big covered deck, beautiful landscaping, oversized garage, RV parking, upgrades! Must See!
SPECTACULAR ESTATE! Unique home Astounding large home, living room, family and 9+ acre property in Butte Valley, room, office, 3 fireplaces, covered decking, vaulted wood, barn, Gazebo, garden magazineceilings, worthytile,landscaping, area, Saltpond waterwith solar heated pool, covered relaxing waterfall, amazing must porch, woodstove with Brick hearth, open see property! floor plan, amazing views, Great horse potential! Bed:4+ Bath:3 Bed: 3SqFt:3407 Bath: 3 Price:$569,000 SqFt: 2,606 Price: $565,000
BREATHTAKING CANYON VIEW ESTATE!
TREMENDOUS HOME NESTLED IN THE PINES! This lovely home is nicely situated on the .35 acre lot. Exceptional features of this property include a gas fireplace, newer appliances, newer roof and gutters, central heating and air conditioning, detached garage with bonus storage area and natural low maintenance landscaping. This is a MUST SEE HOME!
BUSINESS POTENTIAL INSpectacular PRIME PRIME PARADISE LOCATION!
AFFORDABLE UPDATED HOME! This home is turn-key and ready to go! Newer laminate flooring, linoleum in the large kitchen and bathrooms, newer appliances, newer central heat and air, detached garage, fenced rear yard, covered carport and large covered deck!
Bed:3 Bath:2 SqFt:1793 Price: $295,000
LOTS!!!!! VIEWS! SMALL FARM/RANCH! SUBDIVISION! GATED COMMUNITY! We have land and lots in many shapes and sizes! Whether you are looking to build a home, estate or small farm we have what you need! Let us help you find what you’re looking for!
Acreage: .3-19.95 acres Prices: From $40,000-$135,000
LOCATION! This property has served as
custom home built in 2004 featuring a split floor the home to Antique and Unique upholstery plan, tall ceilings, full master suite including for decades! The property fronts Skyway, the walk-in closet, en-suite bathroom with view tub largest local thoroughfare with the highest and kitchen with exist beautiful trafficshower count., spacious Many opportunities for cabinetry and eating bar,its tile, freestanding this property including current use asgas an fireplace, large fenced yard, gated RV parking, upholstery shop. generous setbacks. Gorgeous well kept home.
Building SqFt:1500
LotBed:3 SqFt:25,700 Bath:2 Price:$225,000 SqFt:1869 Price:$294,900
Bed:2 Bath:2 SqFt:1440 Price:$99,000
Bed:2
Bath:2 SqFt:1080 Price: $79,900
GET OUT OF TOWN! come live in the quiet forest right by Paradise lake. This exceptional home features 3 bedrooms and 2 baths with a split floorplan separated by a large great room. Large utility room with breezeway to garage and fourth bedroom with bathroom. RV parking, covered patio, Private! Bed:4
Bath:3 SqFt:1777 Price:$239,000
Must Sell Properties!
45
HOME + GAREDEN
ANTIQUE DIY
Suitcase Pet Bed Your pet deserves to jet off to a peaceful slumber in style. Create a charming perch for your furry friend from a vintage suitcase and she’ll be sure to have sweet dreams!
PROJECT + PHOTOS BY ERIN WENHAM
MATERIALS NEEDED
46
. . . . . . . . .
Suitcase (we found this beauty at Eighth & Main Antiques) Four chair legs or feet and mounting plates (note: you will
need to swap out the screws in the mounting kit for nuts and bolts to avoid poking your pet!)
Paint of your choice Marker Power drill Screw driver Metal cutting saw Safety goggles Fabric and stuffing or a pillow that fits your suitcase
UPGRADEDLIVING.COM JUNE 2015
INSTRUCTIONS
1
Paint your chair legs if desired. We chose a white semigloss enamel for extra durability.
2
You may decide to keep the top half of your suitcase or remove it. We decided to remove ours for a more open feel. You will likely have to cut through the hinges using a reciprocating saw or Dremel tool with a metal cutting attachment. Be sure to wear those safety goggles!
3
Place your mounting plates on the bottom of your suitcase and make sure that they are evenly spaced. Use your marker to indicate where holes need to be drilled.
4
Drill your holes and attach the mounting plates. Tighten your bolts as much as possible to ensure a secure fit. Now you’re ready to screw in your chair legs.
5
Add your cushion and watch your little friend enjoy her fancy new perch!
TREASURE COVE Collectibles • Antiques • Furniture • Jewelry Clothing and more!
We take CONSIGNMENTS Drop oo donations OR Schedule a pick up
8247 Skyway, Paradise (Corner Skyway & Wagstaff) Tuesday-Saturday 9 AM - 5 PM 530-877-2514
ORANGE STREET CONSIGNMENT
Quality, Cleanliness, Selection & Price
Paradise: 6640 Clark Rd. (530) 877-1724 Oroville: 2745 Oro Dam Blvd. (530) 532-1272 Chico: 2030 Park Avenue (530) 343-3666
an organized display of the rare and collectible to unique, unusual and pratical too
(530) 899-7064 514 ORANGE STREET CHICO, CA OPEN THURSDAY - SUNDAY 11AM-5PM
47
Gorgeous custom built home in exquisite Paradise neighborhood! This home offers custom landscaping on 2.46 acres; vaulted ceiling in family room; gourmet kitchen complete with new appliances and spacious breakfast nook; plus, formal dining room and living room, spacious master suite, and large game/hobby room downstairs. 5793 Acorn Ridge, Paradise Bed: 4 Bath: 3.5 Price: $479,000
Westside location for this beautifully updated home featuring contemporary paint colors and elegant features throughout. The living room offers a fireplace and built-in glass display cabinets. Gourmet kitchen is complete with recessed lighting, newer cabinets, solid-surface countertops, garden window, and spacious breakfast nook. This .32 acre parcel features mature landscape and in-ground pool. Bed: 3
48
271 Redbud, Paradise Bath: 3 Price: $273,900
UPGRADEDLIVING.COM JUNE 2015
Well built home in quiet lower Pines location! The living room offers free standing woodstove, wood-beam ceiling and picture window. The kitchen features a pantry, plenty of cabinets and counter space. Additional features include freshly painted and carpeted interior, lowmaintenance fenced backyard, and R.V. parking. 13950 Jarvis Circle, Magalia Bed: 2 Bath:2 Price: $165,000
Spectacular, one-owner, well-built, meticulously maintained home has excellent curb appeal with beautiful, mature landscape. The spacious living room opens to the light, bright kitchen complete with pantry and breakfast nook. Amenities include alarm system, 3 zone heat/air system, skylights, whole house fan, hardwood flooring, newer carpet, and central vacuum. 5268 Harrison Road, Paradise Bed: 3 Bath: 3 Price: $434,900
Ready for a new owner‌ pest certification, septic certification and new carpet. The spacious living room offers fireplace set in custom brick hearth, large master suite with walk-in closet and French doors to patio. Fantastic, lowmaintenance yard with small pond, patio areas and garden. Plenty of parking, circle drive; plus, half bath in garage.
Bed: 3
5616 Glen Way, Paradise Bath:3 Price: $229,000
Location, location, location! Almost level lot with easy R.V. parking and backyard access with spacious, covered, rear deck overlooking pleasant and mature garden areas. The interior offers a spacious and bright kitchen with ample counter space and breakfast nook, a family room with wood-beamed ceiling and oversized picture window; plus, a roomy utility/laundry area. Bed: 3
1598 Gate Lane, Paradise Bath: 2 Price: $289,000
Real Estate Nate
321-1158 Family is why we do it all.
Nancy Wolfe (530) 228-5949
NancyWolfeRealtor@gmail.com www.NancyWolfe.net
CA BRE # 01257340
Gayle Aylward, Agent Insurance Lic#: 0691589 1277 East Avenue, Ste 110 Chico, CA 95926 Bus: 530-895-1356 www.gayleaylward.com
We all feel the same commitment to care for our families. Helping you meet your insurance needs is part of my commitment to you. Like a good neighbor, State Farm is there. CALL ME TODAY. 速
Prepare to be greeted by a feeling of comfort and serenity as you enter this lovely and spacious home. Charm, character and over a half-acre lot, located in town, make this home a rare find. Lovingly maintained and remodeled, this home also has a finely crafted pool table, solar panels, detached two-car garage and R.V/boat parking. The expansive, park-like back yard features a beautiful swimming pool, gravel paths and lush mature landscaping. This is a one of a kind home, for those who appreciate quality and thoughtful design. Bed: 4.0
Bath: 2.5
SqFt: 3,570 Price: $659,000
0907504.1
State Farm, Home Office, Bloomington, IL 49
MONTHLY FITNESS
Total Summer Body
by Kaia Fit Our friends at Kaia Fit of Chico have offered up some simple moves to get your whole body toned and trim this summer!
PUSH-UP TO SIDE PLANK UPPER BODY
Starting in a plank position, complete one push-up at your level. After your push-up, rotate your body into a side plank, dropping your bottom knee for Balance Level. Rotate sides.
STEP UP TO HIGH KNEE LOWER BODY
Using a chair, table, or box, place one foot completely on top of the surface. As you step up, drive the opposite knee up. Step down and alternate sides.
IN & OUT SQUATS
PLANK PUNCHES CORE
Starting in your level of plank, extend your arm in front of you while keeping your hips parallel to the ground.
HOLLOW BODY/BOAT POSE CORE
Start in low boat, knees bent or extended, then bring your knees and chest closer together for high boat.
CONNECT
50
UPGRADEDLIVING.COM JUNE 2015
Kaia Fit | 2700 Hegan Ln. #108, Chico | 530-570-6342
PHOTOS ERIN WENHAM
LOWER BODY
With your feet about hip-width apart, toes facing forward, keep your chest tall as you push back with your hips and drive into the ground through your heels into a squat. Stand up then jump or step your feet out wider than hip width, toes slightly pointed out, and squat down. Repeat.
Healthy Families Build Healthy Communities Bradley Foster, D.C.
1390 E. 9th Street #190, Chico (in the Beatniks parking lot) www.FosteringWellness.com 530-342-NECK (6325)
FITNESS CREATED
BY WOMEN FOR WOMEN Visit KaiaFitChico.com to sign up!
SUPERVISED KIDDIE CORNER MONDAY - FRIDAY 4:30PM & 5:30PM CLASSES
Follow us on Facebook for contests, giveaways, and much more!
facebook.com/upgradedliving
51
DAY for
DAD
Looking to make some memories with dad this Father’s Day? Lucky for you, there are countless opportunities to show some appreciation for dad while having fun with the whole family. Here are just a few ideas to make this Father’s Day one for the books!
BILLIARD CLUB Who doesn’t love a round of pool, some great food, and good company? Dad will love a trip to his favorite billiard club to
FISHING Great areas to fish near Chico are Black Butte Lake,
enjoy some friendly competition and of course the game on in the background. Grab some hot wings, a pitcher, and let the good times roll. Check out The Graduate or DownLo, both located in downtown Chico.
Oroville Dam, Sacramento River, Stony Gorge Lake, Burney Falls, Black Lake (Indian Lake), Paradise Lake, nearby Horseshoe Pond, and Shasta Lake. When you feel the tug of the line, the time spent waiting will all be worth it. Even if you walk away without catch, the memories spent fishing with Dad are irreplaceable.
SHOOTING RANGE If dad is looking for a bit more action,
GOLFING A classic dad day activity and longtime favorite. Our area offers a host of exceptional golf spots, whether dad is a seasoned pro or leisurely golfer. Let him have a quiet afternoon on the course or have the family join for tee time. Grab dad some snazzy new golf gear and he’ll be ready to hit the green in style!
52
UPGRADEDLIVING.COM JUNE 2015
surprise him with a trip to his favorite shooting range and shamelessly feed that macho man ego. Check out Down Range, the Chico Rod & Gun Club, or Safer Arms Indoor Range. Wherever you go, dad is sure to leave feeling like an action hero.
BATTING CAGES Take him out to the ballgame! What sports-loving dad wouldn’t enjoy a few
HIKING/BACKPACKING
rounds of batting practice on a beauti-
If your dad is the adventurous type, the Feather Falls Trail
ful Sunday? Let him be the star of the
is a perfect way to spend Father’s Day. With waterfalls
show or impart his batting wisdom
compared to the beauty of those in Yosemite, you’ll
on the kiddos. Head over to the
definitely want to bring a camera for the observatory deck. Seasoned hikers recommend taking the
Funland “Dugout” located at Cal Skate in Chico, and don’t forget
longer trail if you’re a beginning hiker and the
the peanuts and Cracker Jacks!
shorter, steeper one for all you trailblazers. Don’t forget lots of water, snacks, and sunscreen!
FRISBEE GOLF Frisbee is fun for the whole family. Test your throwing and catching skills at Bidwell Park Short Disk Course or the larger Upper Bidwell Park Disc Golf Course. Make sure to compliment dad on his dazzling (yet goofy) trick moves.
KICK BACK Sometimes, on a day dedicated to you, the activity that sounds most appealing is no activity at all. Request a day of R&R from the family. Read in the backyard with a beer, catch up on your favorite TV show, or lounge by the pool. It’s your day dads— do what you enjoy!
BEER OR WINE TASTING Lots of dads love beer. Of the dads that love beer, most love Sierra Nevada brews. Take your dad on a tour of our beloved Sierra Nevada Brewing Co. Rub fresh hops on your palms, experience the bottling process, and end the tour with a stop at the gift shop. The handcrafted beer soaps are a fan favorite along with the beer mustards (perfect for your possible evening BBQ). If dad is more of a wine guy, there are oodles of wineries in our area that offer wine tasting to its visitors. Pack a picnic and spend the day soaking up some sun and some delicious local vino. Check out www.sierraoro.org for a list of wineries near you!
FATHER’S DAY BRUNCH We all know the way to a dad’s heart is through his stomach. Treat dad to an indulgent Father’s Day brunch to show him your appreciation. Whether you take him out to his favorite biscuits and gravy spot or bring him breakfast in bed, Dad is sure to feel (and taste) the love!
53
IN MOTION IS... lost I e r “whe tting e g s b 40l ve on o o r g my !” m a J r e in Pow
e to c a l p “my !” be ME
THINK SUMMER SPECIAL: 4 Months $199 Single, $299 Double, $349 Family (1 Year Pre-Pay). Call Membership at 343-5678 for details. 1ST PLACE 1994
1ST PLACE 1995
1ST PLACE 1996
1ST PLACE 1997
1ST PLACE 1998
1ST PLACE 1999
1ST PLACE 2000
1ST PLACE 2001
1ST PLACE 2002
1ST PLACE 2003
WALK IN RIDE OUT
54
UPGRADEDLIVING.COM JUNE 2015
1ST PLACE 2004
1ST PLACE 2005
1ST PLACE 2006
1ST PLACE 2007
1ST PLACE 2008
1ST PLACE 2009
1ST PLACE 2010
1ST PLACE 2011
1ST PLACE 2012
1ST PLACE 2013
1ST PLACE 2014
CHEERS TO YOUR HEALTH 3 JUICE RECIPES FROM THE OVEN
PHOTO FRANK REBELO
“We are experiencing an awakening to good health—the benefits of making better diet choices and choosing organic produce. Juicing is one of the growing lifestyle choices to that improved health. No matter what kind of juicer you choose to use, and there are a lot of them out there, juicing is a fast, easy and delicious way to ensure you are getting the nutritional benefits of fruits and vegetables in one simple glass of juice. When we decided to start offering juices, we struggled to find decent juicing recipes. We found a lot of people believing that juicing had to taste bad in order for it to be good for you. We knew we could make some great juices, and after some flavor experimentation we have developed some wonderful flavor combinations. Here are three examples of some great tasting juices with fantastic health benefits.” - Michael Epperson, Owner
Roots
Green Juice
Refresh
1 small sweet potato w/ skin
½ cucumber w/ skin
1 apple
1 small beet w/ greens
1 apple
½ orange
3 carrots
3 leaves kale
½ sweet potato
1” piece of ginger
5 sprigs parsley
½ cucumber w/ skin
1” piece of turmeric
1 slice lemon w/ peel
Smoking hot gifts featuring Green Mountain Grills!
196 EAST 14TH STREET, CHICO |343-7370 RECIPE BY THE OVEN | 2560 DOMINIC DRIVE, SUITE C, CHICO | 530-809-1021
55
G
rown in fertile Vina soil, vegetables are kept happy through the nurturing hands of Farmelot owner James
Brock and his partner Bruce Balgooyen. Fifteen
FARMELOT
A VINTAGE FARM FULL OF CHARM
acres of farmland is home to 12,000 tomato plants, a variety of lettuces, cucumbers, cherries, walnuts, cucumbers, and more. It also serves as residence for James’ daughter, Laura, who has been working at Farmelot along with about 14 other workers. Historical from the idea of the name, Farmelot (creation from Camelot), to its structures, the original barn dates back to the 1800s. Because of James’ work renovating the building, it still stands over 200 years later. Also with the use of strong hands and hardy effort, the two 6,000-square-foot greenhouses were designed with recycled wood, metal, and old cell towers by James. The plants are lined up in rows, happily spreading their roots beneath the sun, protected from wind and strong weather. Farmelot products are passionately grown, and you experience that through the flavor and quality of each natural food you taste. Bruce Balgooyen puts forth time and intellect in discovering which varieties grow best. In fact, he grew 115 trials of different lettuces. The romaine grown today is buttery and thick, edible plain or in delightful contrast with the arugula or kale, also cultivated here. Sierra Nevada Brewing Co. uses Farmelot’s fresh salad mix in its restaurant and has been an exciting partner for the farm. James tells us while walking beside huge mounds of lettuce how good it is for your teeth due to a healthy coating left behind. Lettuce is also found to be helpful for your central nervous system. All the farmers here are full of knowledge about each particular thing they grow. Not only are they particular in what they plant, they also have high standards for how they plant. In light of the terrible drought we are having in California, Farmelot uses drip tape and is fastidious about where every drop of water lands. They plant closer together, wherever quality isn’t compromised and use six packs instead of direct seeding.
56
UPGRADEDLIVING.COM JUNE 2015
Although not yet certified organic, Farmelot does every bit of farming by hand and hopes to get certification by this summer. They never use pesticides or synthetic fertilizers. Both farmer James and Bruce have years of agricultural knowledge under their belts. James has been growing food his whole life and remains politically active about farming techniques and sustainability. He also taught social studies and language arts at North Valley High School in Oregon, breaking ground for his future educating younger generations on farming techniques BY ALYSSA WORLEY PHOTOS ERIN WENHAM
that last. Dr. Bruce, a Cornell graduate with a Ph.D. in seed cultivation, has been farming for over 40 years. He currently teaches agriculture classes at Chico State, while also extending time to the community instructing classes about seed saving and organic farming. James says the motto of their farm is to “grow the food we want to eat.” They always want to be able to go out into the fields and consume the food they produce. Eating locally grown goods does make a difference in nutrition and quality. The distinction between fresh produce and grocery store food is the shelf time, Dr. Bruce informs. “It takes two or three days just to deliver the food, then it is refrigerated till there is room for it on the floor,” he says. “Often by then, the best flavors go out of it.” It is recognizable after eating Farmelot, and farmer’s market produce, that quality is extremely important to our county’s farmers. “Even our dogs love the food,” Laura Brock says with a laugh. “Junior will sneak into the greenhouses and come sneaking out with a huge cucumber hanging out of his mouth. We have to lock them up in a special way so the dogs can’t get at the food.” If I had access to Farmelot’s vegetable and fruit variety, I would sneak into the greenhouses too! With a bag full of lettuce and cucumbers scattered with dew, greater knowledge of how produce should be grown, and a wave we leave our friends at Farmelot.
CONNECT
Find Farmelot at the Chico Farmers Market Wednesday and Saturday mornings, at the Paradise Farmers Market and at Chico Natural Foods Co-op. 57
SHOP HOP
There’s no denying that the barbershop craze is in full effect. More men are going after the total experience when it comes to personal grooming: the hot towel, the straight razor shave, the fine attention to detail and style. We stopped by some local shops to get you the scoop on this welcomed fad that seems to be here to stay!
FACE THE FACTS: BY SAUN SCOTT, MASTER BARBER PHOTO JASON POWERS PHOTOGRAPHY
YOUR GUIDE TO FACIAL HAIR Barbering... It’s not just a trend, it’s a way of life. For centuries, men relied on their barbers for multiple things like blood letting, teeth pulling, and even therapy. Through it all, our only mission is to make sure you feel impeccably confident about yourself as you walk out the door. Let me give you a few things to consider when it comes to facial hair.
FACE SHAPE
HYGIENE
PRODUCTS
STRAIGHT RAZOR SHAVE TIPS
You should always think about your facial structure as a key element when choosing a style of facial hair. For example, if you have a rounder face shape I would recommend a square jaw bone cropping. This is going to downplay the round appearance. Understanding your face shape will help you and your stylist create your ideal look.
Washing your facial hair
Oils and waxes are designed to condition and tame. Suggested proper use:
These simple steps will help you get a smoother shave and less irritation.
is very important to keep the skin conditioned and prevent buildup from products and food particles. Most beard oil and wax companies also make facial products that will help prevent dryness and itching.
Soften the bread with a warm towel to open the cuticle layer. Massage the oil into your beard, then use a cold towel to blot close the cuticle and lock in the oil at the hair shaft. Finish with a light wax to keep the hair tame.
1 Wash your face with a warm towel. 2 Lather with shaving cream. 3 Always shave with the grain and across the grain (grain = direction of hair growth), never against which creates ingrown hairs and razor burn.
4 Stretch the skin with your fingers to help the hair stand erect and get a closer shave.
5 Finish with a cold towel to close pores. 6 Use a light aftershave to sanitize and condition the skin.
SAUN SCOTT IS THE MASTER BARBER AT THE CHOP SHOP LOCATED INSIDE FORMAL EDUCATION AT 336 BROADWAY IN DOWNTOWN CHICO (530) 809-1839 UPGRADEDLIVING.COM JUNE 2015
58
PHOTOS ERIN WENHAM
DANNY’S BARBERSHOP
GEARHEAD BARBERSHOP & SOCIAL CLUB
JERSEY’S CLIPS & BREWS
544 BROADWAY STREET, CHICO (530) 332-0553
221 NORMAL AVE., CHICO 530-894-2889
615 MANGROVE AVE # 120 (530) 893-2547
Favorite Haircut: The Combover
Favorite Haircut: Undercut
Favorite Haircut: Men’s Fade
Motto:“At Danny’s Barbershop, everyone is family.”
Motto: “Look Better”
Motto: “Chico’s best haircut in Chico’s best atmosphere”
Great music and relaxing vibes. Owner
Not just a barbershop, but a social club.
Why step away from the game and
Danny has created a young, fresh twist
Lively sounds of music and laughter
cold beverage in the fridge just to get
on the classic barbershop. Be sure to
will draw you in to this Chico gem for a
a haircut? With six beers on tap and a
check out their line of hats and t-shirts
classic barbershop experience. You’ll get
comfortable, sports lounge feel, you’ll
by Upper Park Printing and their own
a great cut, a great time, and even a free
feel right at home and leave
line of gel products, Elegance.
beverage with your visit.
looking great.
INSTAGR AM/FACEBOOK @DANNYSBARBERSHIP
INSTAGR AM/FACEBOOK @GEARHEADBARBERSHOP
WWW.JERSEYSCHICO.COM
59
ARTIST PROFILE
CHICO BONSAI SOCIETY
T
he literal meaning of Bonsai, since fourth century AD, is simply defined by a tree in a tray. The art of Bonsai is something completely different. An expressional form of living art—adapting beauty and grace—Bonsai requires training, commitment, and patience to be expressed to its fullest, artistic extent. It concerns the Bonsai artist to create the illusion of natural beauty, but it all must be aesthetically pleasing to both the eye and the soul of the observer.
Contact Leo Martinez at LRmartin@ cebridge.net for Chico Bonsai Society membership information and upcoming Bonsai events.
BY MATT MANFREDI PHOTO FRANK REBELO
Leo Martinez has been well acquainted with Bonsai art for the last 25 years. His experience continues to evolve from his many years of teaching others and establishing Bonsai Societies in Washington, Nevada, and California. Martinez recalls when he first began to take interest, observing a Bonsai artist demonstrate on a shaggy garden juniper. He witnessed the artist as he began to carefully shape and form the juniper tree. The tree soon evolved into a living piece of art, with branches winding and
bending, mimicking a tree that has been living for 100 years. So intrigued by the artistic act he just witnessed, Martinez has made Bonsai a part of his life ever since. The variety of trees used for Bonsai art can widely vary from olive, juniper, maple cornier, and oak—among many others. The stereotypical small size of a Bonsai tree, as seen in films and photos, is something that greatly varies as well. They can range from lengths as small as only a few inches to several feet in height. Martinez has worked with Bonsai trees of great variety in many different parts of the United States. Currently he is the president of the Chico Bonsai Society, but he has belonged to many different clubs since Bonsai became his passion over two decades ago. His experience has stretched from Washington’s Puget Sound to the Bonsai Society in the Palm Desert and several cities in between. Martinez’ experience not only covers his own knowledge of the art form but continues to evolve from teaching and instructing others. The Chico Bonsai Society continues to grow with every passing year from Martinez’ leadership. “Above all, Bonsai is an emulation of
a tree in nature,” says Martinez. “It is a work of art produced by the individual through proper care and styling of the plant.” He also mentions how a twofoot-tall Bonsai can represent a 100-foot tree in nature. Each skillful cut is taken into account when crafting natural emulation—nothing is overlooked. Age can be artistically created. Growth can be emulated. The artist’s keen eye for natural beauty is as important as their green thumb and their methods with the pruning sheers. The passion that Martinez has for the art form is not only apparent with his own Bonsai trees, but also in his desire and enthusiasm for the ancient art. He intends to keep honing his craft and diligently teaching others who are interested. “To this day, I remain fascinated by the art of Bonsai, and have made it my life long hobby,” says Martinez.
60
UPGRADEDLIVING.COM JUNE 2015
ORIENT & FLUME ART GLASS A Chico Tradition since 1972 2161 Park Avenue, Chico (530) 893-0373, Ext. 3 Gallery Hours: Monday - Saturday 10am-5pm
61
COMMUNITY CALENDAR KIRSHNER
JUNE 1 - 19 The Work of Robert Benton Race Chico Art Center 450 Orange Street #6, Chico 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM www.robertrace.com
JUNE 13 Citizen Science- Water Monitoring Five Mile Picnic Area Centennial Way, Chico 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM www.thestreamteam.org
JUNE 2 Theresa James and the Rhythm Tramps Sierra Nevada Big Room 1075 East 20th Street, Chico 7:30 PM www.sierranevada. com/bigroom
BHS at PetSmart Adoption Event PetSmart 2019 Forest Ave, Chico 11:00 AM - 3:00 PM (530) 343-7917 ext. 109
JUNE 5 KZFR & BEC present Bill McKibben Chico Masonic Family Center 1110 W East Ave, Chico 6:00 PM www.kzfr.org JUNE 6 Humane Heroes Butte Humane Society’s Educational Center 2156 Pillsbury Rd, Chico 1:00 PM - 2:30 PM (530) 343-7917 ext. 109 Mandolin Jazz w/ Chris Loizeaux and Jack lemley feat. Bob Kirkland Trio Wine Time 26 Lost Dutchman Drive, Chico 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM www.winetimechico.com JUNE 12 Third Ebony & Ivory 2015 Concert Series feat. Guitarist Charlie Robinson Chico Women’s Club 592 E. 3rd Street, Chico 6:00 PM www.ChicoWomensClub.org
62
UPGRADEDLIVING.COM JUNE 2015
JUNE 13 - 14 Relay for Life of Paradise 2015 Paradise High School 5911 Maxwell Drive, Paradise 10:00 AM - 8:00 AM www.relayforlife.org/paradiseca JUNE 15 Frank Solivan and Dirty Kitchen Sierra Nevada Brewing Co. 1075 E. 20th Street, Chico 8:30 PM wwwsierranevada.com JUNE 20 11th Annual Movies in the Park: Despicable Me 2 Hosted by CARD Sycamore Field, Bidwell Park 8:00 PM www.chicorec.com Cruisin’ Paradise 19th Car Show Paradise Performing Arts Center 777 Nunneley Road, Paradise 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM www.cruisinclassicsofparadise.com
Named after his lifetime sponsor, Michael came to us from Oregon suffering from several birth defects. After two corrective surgeries, he is pain free and enjoys spending his days with us. The foundation is committed to providing everything he needs for a happy and healthy life. Name: Michael Age: 10 years Native Habitat: All of North America and into South America Food: In the wild, deer, mice, squirrels, porcupines, raccoons, rabbits, and beavers. At Kirshner, he is fed rabbit, chicken, duck, beef, turkey, and lamb. Fun Fact: Cougars are also referred to as pumas, panthers, and mountain lions. The cougar hunts alone by day or night and will hide its food, if large enough, in dense undergrowth and return to it over several days. It is big enough to tackle larger prey such as domestic cattle and horses, for which it has earned a bad reputation with livestock farmers. In hunting, the cougar uses the strength of its powerful hind legs to lunge at its prey with single running jumps that can reach in excess of 40 feet. Cougars have small, broad heads with small, rounded ears, a powerful body with long hind legs, and a blacktipped tail. Cougars come from all parts of the United States, Mexico, and Canada and live in all types of habitats. In general, the size and coloration of the cougar varies greatly across its range, which stretches from southwest Canada down the western states of North America and throughout most western parts of South America. Aside from humans, the cougar has the largest range of any mammal in the Western Hemisphere. Barry R. Kirshner Wildlife Sanctuary and Educational Center Hours: Tuesday – Sunday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. including holidays, rain or shine! Phone: 530-533-1000 No appointments are necessary, but please call ahead for guided tours. www.kirshner.org
READER’S PIC
CHICO PERFORMANCES
2015–2016 SEASON IMPORTANT DATES
Season Announcement July 13
Member/Donor Early Ticket Sales Support the Arts Become a Member/Donor Benefits include: • 10–20% Discount on Tickets • Early Ticket Purchase • Best Seats • Advance notice of added performances
July 29–August 6
A Father’s Love Photo Inspiration: Garrett always loves it when his dad, Brant, who is 6’5”, throws him really high in the air! He feels like he’s flying.
Thank you Brant for being an amazing husband and father to our two beautiful children! You are our protector, our friend, a hard working provider, the kids’ jungle gym, Garrett’s future hunting partner, our daughters first love, fixer of everything, killer of spiders, our super hero and the best father and husband we could ever ask for. We love you to pieces! Happy Father’s Day!
Season Ticket Sales Purchase 5 different events and receive a 10% discount
Saturday, July 8 8:00 a.m.
Individual Tickets on Sale Monday, August 17 10 a.m.
Photo Submitted by: Kimberly Snyder Hometown: Chico
Enter, vote, and find our monthly Reader’s Pic themes by following us on facebook.com/upgradedliving.
For more info: 898-6333 WWW.CHICOPERFORMANCES.COM
63
Premium and upscale services are coming to the Oroville community. Medicare and private insurance carriers can look forward to elegant upgrades in internal medicine and physical therapy, as well as new services including a pharmacy, urgent care, and medical spa. 2450 Oro Dam Boulevard