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Call us for business insurance, personal auto and homeowners insurance. as well as employee benefits and wealth management.
Where There is Art by Alexa Benson-Valavanis
Tonight the record player spins as the unmistakably rich sound of Billie Holiday spills into our living room. The windows are open and far off into the distance the sun is kissing the horizon. It feels like with each blink of the eye a Polaroid camera should be producing instant snapshots chronicling time. Beside the open windows hangs a wedding gift. A handmade quilt with our barn and silhouettes of our farm animals dancing across the front. It is a cherished piece that conjures up feelings of home like warm apple pie or a packed lunch. I am reminded where there is art, there is love. My eyes skip, more joyfully than Billie’s melancholy sound demands, into our little kitchen. Pasted across every inch of the fridge are drawings from nieces, nephews and godchildren. Intertwined with the handmade crayon designs are smiling faces from photos of recent times with those we adore. I am reminded where there is art, there is love. As Lady Day carries on seemingly unbothered by my fleeting attention I take notice of the oak icebox that rests against our dining room wall. I can remember it in my grandmother’s home. Where ice blocks used to sit below glass bottles of home delivered milk, works of authors now rest. Books from philosophers like Kierkegaard and Socrates sit on top of Dr. Seuss and Shel Silverstein. Sometimes I walk by and imagine Plato contemplating underneath The Giving Tree. I am reminded where there is art, there is love. Isn’t that the beauty of art? Whether we find it in a symphony or a lone voice; whether it inspires us through Michelangelo or a sweet six year old; whether it costs thousands of dollars or slips through the window frame at dusk - art is unique to each of us. Art encourages and inspires. Art documents and dreams. Art is an opinion, an expression - a belief. And, in my life, where there is art, there is love! 11
Foodies
Month two of our Secret Menu promotion is in full swing and the competition is getting fierce! Stop by any of the thirty-four restaurants featured in the September issue of Upgraded Living Magazine and try the delightfully delicious dishes pictured below for a chance to win your slice of $2,500 in cash and prizes. The contest ends on October 31 and winners will be announced on November 7th! Entering is easy; just follow the steps below!
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UPGRADED LIVING | OCTOBER 2012 | UPGRADEDLIVING.COM
Step 1: Visit us on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/UpgradedLiving and like our fan page! Step 2: Visit any of the restaurants listed on the right and order their secret menu item. Step 3: Snap a photo of the item with your smartphone or camera. Step 4: Post the photo of the item on our Facebook wall with the restaurant’s name and the name of the secret menu item in your caption. You’re entered to win!
Business
A Taste of the Sea by Aveed Khaki
Tony and Rosalia Flores, owners of Chico’s new fish market.
Originally from Monterey, California, Tony and Rosalia Flores moved to our corner of northern California seven years ago in search of a slower pace of life and to escape the rat race that was quickly developing in Monterey. Searching for areas with positive potential growth, they happened upon Butte County and found the perfect home for themselves and their two daughters in Durham. Both born into Sicilian families with strong roots in the fishing industry, leaving Monterey and its perfect location for oceanic cuisine was anything but easy, and having become accustomed to seafood as a daily staple of their diets made the move more difficult with each passing day. Tony, a commercial fisherman for twenty years and a contractor by trade, continued traveling between Durham and Monterey for work, making sure to call Rosalia before heading home from each trip and asking if he could bring anything with him. The answer never seemed to change, “FISH!” After years of Rosalia saying, and Tony hearing the same thing, the two decided it was time to 16
bring the best of the sea to Butte County. Last month, through a set of unrelated events, Tony and Rosalia serendipitously came upon a vacant building at 1141 Forest Avenue. The timing, the location and the need for something new both in their lives and in the area, came together so perfectly that they simply couldn’t resist. After countless calamari feeds at their own home and a recent crab fundraiser for the girls’ swimming team, they realized it was time to bring what they knew best to their new home. They met with the owner and set off to open Chico’s very own wholesale/retail fish market. When it comes to organic and free-range, it doesn’t get much better than this. Tony and Rosalia plan to carry a full ice bed with a variety of fish that are line-caught daily, and plan to operate the fish market in the traditional style of the small fishing towns their families were raised in. As fishermen they knew the season and knew what was going to be available, so they planned for it accordingly; Tony and Rosalia plan to do the same, promising that options will always be fresh and never frozen. In the upcoming
UPGRADED LIVING | OCTOBER 2012 | UPGRADEDLIVING.COM
fall and winter seasons, visitors can expect to see fresh halibut, sea bass and striper fish alongside calamari, live lobster, live crab, live shrimp, oysters, clams and mussels. During the winter season specifically, residents can also expect specials like sea urchin, spiny lobsters, sardines, anchovies and abalone. Best of all, if a customer has a request for something unique, Tony and Rosalia are committed to finding it. In our eyes, these two seafood aficionados have just what it takes to bring seafood in our area to the next level, and luckily for us, they also plan on opening a short order kitchen so visitors can not only buy fresh, but also try it as made by the folks who know it best. Whether you’re looking for fish and chips, Monterey calamari, or (our favorite) chowder in a bread bowl, Tony and Rosalia will have it cooked and ready to impress in no time at all. Expect to see the new market open and ready for business in mid to late October. If you’re looking to impress friends and family this holiday season, look no further, we guarantee you’ll see us there as well.
photograph on left by Erin Wenham
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Born in 1941 to a painting contractor and housewife, Wayne didn’t quite fall into the silver spoon category. His father played banjo and guitar while his mother sang, and music was often found in the air at their small home in Los Angeles, California, but money wasn’t often found nearby. Wayne’s father borrowed a guitar to practice at home, and Wayne took an instant liking to it, spending as much time as his father would allow exploring its curves and angles, how the strings delivered soft notes when strummed, and how those soft notes resonated from within the hollow shell of the instrument. By ten years of age, Wayne had been tempted enough and had to have a guitar of his own. He asked his father, but money was tight and luxuries like guitars were not at the top of the family’s shopping list. Wayne began spending more time at friends’ houses, surveying the ins and outs of the guitars they had been given and visually recording each and every minute detail. The want was killing him, but without the means to buy one, he decided to go in search of finding another way. As a painting contractor who did contracting work on the side, Wayne’s father often had scrap wood lying around the house. Realizing his dreams of owning a guitar were quickly disappearing, Wayne decided to take the leap into building a guitar from scratch, using the visual recordings he had made at his friends’ homes and the scrap wood his
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UPGRADED LIVING | OCTOBER 2012 | UPGRADEDLIVING.COM
father had discarded. The result was disastrous. Never had Wayne seen a guitar built so badly and so out of tune, so he decided to try again. Fifty-to-sixty try-agains later, Wayne had a usable model, and through the experience had learned quite a bit about not only building guitars, but tuning and refinishing them as well. Wayne decided to use that knowledge and turned his tireless work at building a guitar for himself into his first business. Friends started pouring in and Wayne quickly had a steady stream of business in guitar refinishing. In 1959, Wayne set out to find a full time job that would help pay for his musical interests. He was hired at a sign shop, and was set to work cutting layers and letters in plastic. As soon as he had saved the money necessary, he went out and bought his very own guitar, a 1959 Fender Stratocaster with a Fender Tremolux amp; his world would never be the same. Equipped with the guitar he had lusted over for so long, he put a band together with a few friends and started playing surf music throughout night clubs in southern California. The band, provocatively named The Insex, was an instant hit, filling clubs like the Rendezvous Ballroom to capacity. Two of their records landed in large music stores, but were
rmation Find more info s by it on custom gu ar at s ar it Wayne Gu .com rs ta ui www.wayneg
Wayne Charvel’s workshop (opposite page) and two custom, hand built guitars. forced to be renamed as The Insects for fear that the band name would be too risqué for store patrons. The Insects were achieving great success in southern California, but as with many bands, a time often comes when you decide to pursue other goals in life. Wayne left The Insex, married his wife and had a son. No longer pursuing band life as a career goal, but still living with music flowing through his veins, he decided to open a guitar repair shop and return to his roots. WRC Guitar Repair was opened in San Dimas, California and before he knew it, his store had a healthy following of young enthusiasts looking to get the most out of their guitars. One of these young visitors was named Eddie Van Halen. A frequent strummer on the floor of WRC Guitar Repair, Eddie didn’t come from money and would often take home spare pieces from shop guitars including necks and bodies, piecing together his own instruments while struggling to get his band off of the ground. On the weekends, while everyone was out partying, Eddie would be in his room playing guitar, and based upon the fact that his name is synonymous with Rock & Roll, it’s clear that the practice paid off. His first album, titled Van Halen, sold ten million copies in the US alone with hits
like “You Really Got Me” and “Runnin’ With The Devil;” the album eventually gained Diamond status. The songs on the album were played on a self-striped guitar that Wayne had built for Eddie; to return the favor, Eddie gave Guitars by Wayne Charvel album credits. Almost overnight, sales shot through the roof. Dealers began calling and asking for the striped wonder that Wayne had built for Eddie. The needs of the music industry were so large that WRC Guitar Repair and Guitars by Wayne Charvel could barely keep up with demand. rover Jackson, from the Anvil Case Company approached Wayne and made an offer to buy his company, asking him to stay on as an advisor and design consultant. Wayne agreed and remained with the company for a few years before beginning a mini-career as a travelling consultant to major guitar labels. Bernie Rico of BC Rich Guitars soon invited Wayne to retool his factory and Wayne delivered in spades, taking guitar manufacturing procedures that took nearly an hour to complete and shaving the time down to just two
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Style
Dimensions Salon by Aveed Khaki
A staple of the Chico beauty scene for over twenty years, Dimensions Salon in Downtown Chico has stood the test of time and proved year-after-year that upscale service can be provided without the upscale attitude. From the towering ceilings to the gorgeous stained concrete floors, it is clear that every facet of this salon mirrors the artistry of the stylists within. Originally on Second Street, Dimensions moved to their current location in Chico’s art hub on Eighth and Broadway Streets in the mid nineties, tripling the size of their previous salon space and introducing yet another form of artisan services to the area. The salon fits in perfectly and beautifully completes the block. Surrounded by galleries, metal work, and of course Bustolini’s, one of our favorite delis in town, this big-city inspired salon turns the block into a day-long art and dining experience for anyone looking to get away for a bit or reward oneself during a day off from work. The salon is relatively unique to the Chico area in that features a full-fledged boutique within, combining elements of the boutique shopping experience with the services offered by the salon. From hand picked handbags to jewelry, there’s a bit of something for anyone in search of a little
retail therapy. For those looking for a bit of art therapy, the salon also serves as a wonderful stop along the gallery walk as it is home to a number of local artists who display their work on the walls, most notably Betty OHare. 2013 will be a year of changes for Dimensions with plans to hire a few more stylists and expand their service offerings. With ten hair stylists, five nail technicians and well over one hundred years of combined salon experience already available, we can’t wait to see what additions the expansion will provide to their already stellar reputation. Dimensions currently offers a full spectrum of salon services including cuts, colors, hair extensions, styling, facial waxing, nail services, pedicures, manicures and mobile airbrush tanning. The salon also offers competitive pricing on staple product lines like Pureology, Redken, and Pravana, making high-end hair care more accessible and affordable to the general public. The facility is also big enough to handle large wedding parties, making a salon day for the entire bridal party a wonderfully pampered experience. The salon is open Tuesday through Saturday and on Monday by appointment only. Call or stop in today and see why we can’t get enough of this little piece of heaven.
(top left) The interior of Dimensions Salon. (top right) Luxurious washing stations. (above) Dimensions’s hard to miss downtown location. (below) Walls covered with nail polish, what else could you ask for?
Dimensions Salon | 530.894.2515 | 810 Broadway Street | Downtown Chico 26
UPGRADED LIVING | OCTOBER 2012 | UPGRADEDLIVING.COM
photographs by Clark Miller
Spaces
One Sofa, Four Settings We recently gave our senior designers at Nantucket Home the task of coming up with an original room setting using furniture and accessories from our showroom while keeping one element constant – the sofa. Which design best suits your own personal style or home decor? Tell us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/NantucketHomeInc
Designed by Nan Tofanelli:
Designed by Marci Goulart:
Designed by Sage Bowman:
Enjoyed by Rick and Hugo:
With fall looming, I decided to prolong summer a bit by keeping with a beach theme. A seagrass rug, raffia stools, playful art, and sea life accessories complete this casual setting. The distressed coffee table with its iron legs can take on many different looks from contemporary to traditional.
A fresh, livable look with a touch of nature. I used monochromatic colors, natural elements and bright reflective polished nickel, which allows the rug to be the big “pop” of color and pattern in this space. It’s a refreshing, uncomplicated room to unwind in and enjoy quality time with friends and family.
This look is casual, but chic. I chose the items in this setting with a young family, like mine, in mind. The upholstered ottoman is great if you have little ones running around (no sharp edges), yet you can also put your feet up, or safely set down a tray of drinks while entertaining guests. The pillows tie the ottoman and rug together, making the room colorful and fun. My favorite part is the mirror – a simple architectural element which adds interest to any room.
Two avid nappers, we enjoyed trying out the comfort level of the sofa, sans throw pillows. The large slipcovered ottoman is perfect for holding a tray of refreshments for fall football games, or resting many pairs of legs. (Hugo isn’t allowed up on the furniture, so technically he’s lying on me.)
Nantucket Home | 603 Broadway | www.nantuckethomeinc.com 27 21
Small business owner and advocate Public safety advocate Fiscal conservative Government watchdog My name is Toby Schindelbeck. I want to bring Chico back to its motto: A safe place to raise a family, an ideal place for business, and a premier place to live. It is time for our City Council to focus on jobs, public safety, and economic development, not banning plastic bags or other wastes of time. Let’s work together to restore Chico to the place we all know and love.
–Toby Schindelbeck
PLEASE VOTE TOBY SCHINDELBECK ON NOVEMBER 6TH OR EARLIER BY MAIL- IN BALLOT.
Toby Schindelbeck lives in California Park with Lisa, his wife of 12 years, and their 2 dogs Buddy and Roxy. He owns two NUTRISHOP retail stores in town, and has been a Small Business owner since the age of 19. Toby knows what it takes to do more with less, and he is an outstanding problem-solver. In today’s economy, we need leaders like him on our City Council. We need leaders with the business experience, energy, and passion to lead us into prosperity. Toby Schindelbeck is the man for the job. Toby is an outspoken government watchdog who is not afraid to take on the “good old boy” network that currently has the council majority. That is why Toby is endorsed by the Butte County Taxpayers Alliance, the Chico Taxpayers Association, the Butte County Republican Central Committee, and Butte County Supervisor, Larry Wahl. A vote for Toby Schindelbeck is a vote for common sense, accountability, transparency, and above all, a better, safer Chico.
Vote for Toby Schindelbeck for Chico City Council this year and let’s take our great city back! Paid for by Toby Schindelbeck for Chico City Council, PO Box 577, Biggs CA 95917, FPPC# 1346141
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UPGRADED LIVING | OCTOBER 2012 | UPGRADEDLIVING.COM
YOUR COLLISION REPAIR CENTER
Specializing in Insurance Repair 891 • 0234 Restoration • Appraisals • Color Matching • Fiberglass & Boat Repairs
Spaces
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UPGRADED LIVING | OCTOBER 2012 | UPGRADEDLIVING.COM
Spaces
New Again by Briana Lindstrom
Randy Smith moved into the Paradise house he had been renting out, and quickly realized it was farther from a home than he expected. The previous tenants had destroyed the place and made it feel unwelcoming and unlivable. When making a house a home, it makes sense to give the kitchen a little extra love. The room where comforts are cooked up and hungry souls are fed soon became the focus of his new home makeover, thanks to New Again Kitchen & Bath. Almost 80% of New Again Kitchen & Bath’s customers have kitchens they are mostly satisfied with, but want to take the space to the next level with granite and a backsplash. Randy was no exception. Having spent time and money fixing the rest of his house, he decided to keep his original cabinetry and have them touched up. His floors were already done, and he liked the open floor plan of his kitchen and dining space. When Ric saw what he had to work with, he knew he wanted to bring a sense of warmth and movement to the open space and thought a backsplash that reflected off the stones in the fireplace would be a great touch. Randy found the perfect stones and chose Black Galaxy Granite for his countertops to complete the look. The flecks of copper color add depth and light to the smooth black granite, and the texture, color and pattern in the backsplash bounce your eyes around the entire living space making it feel warm and welcoming. Ric and his team at New Again Kitchen & Bath removed the old tile counters and completed installation of the granite counters, custom designed backsplash, plumbing and new sink in one week, at a low cost, and with a sense of caring and creativity. Finally, the beauty and love was brought back into Randy’s home and with the completion of the kitchen, he could settle into his new life. Ready for visits from his kids and snowy Sundays where he can stay in and cook, Randy is extremely happy with his new kitchen and dining space, and gives much thanks to New Again Kitchen & Bath for helping make this transition a smooth one. New Again Kitchen and Bath | 2502 Park Avenue, Chico | (530) 899-2888 37
DRE lic# 01808835
DRE lic# 01866093
Kiersten Crane Morgan (530) 895-3063 Crane Realty www.jimcranerealty.com
Exceptional, Privately Situated Home on 5 Acres! Outstanding views from home, pool & decks. Tons of upgrades plus sunroom, woodstove, RV parking w/ hook-ups, 2 large outbuildings, garden areas, & deep well. Only 20 min.s to Chico, but feels a world away Bed: 3.0 Bath: 2.0 SqFt: 1,340 Price: $229,000
LOTS AND LAND! BEAUTIFUL VIEW ACREAGE (3.87 ac.s) overlooking Musty Buck Ridge to the Sierra Nevadas & Sutter Buttes! Only $39,000!!! New! Nicely maintained home on 1 acre. Features open floor plan, vaulted ceilings, updated finishes, wood stove, patios & garden, attached twocar garage, room for RV, deep well, paved street, large front & back yards, and great quiet neighborhood!
NEW - Gently sloping 5+ ac., nicely treed parcel w/ power. $50,000 REDUCED - Beautifully treed 4.68 acre parcel. Privately situated on quiet culta-sac w/ power & rights to shared well. $69,000
Bed: 3.0 Bath: 2.0 SqFt: 1,669 Price: $269,000
O
Katherine
(530) 591-3837
Lori@LoriHyne.com www.LoriHyne.com
Dream of Living by Bidwell Park? Immaculate and move-in ready home just steps away from the park! Beautifully remodeled home with 4 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, and a large backyard. Welcoming entrance with new slate tiles, all original wood floors, brand new master bathroom, inviting kitchen with silestone counter tops and all stainless steel appliances. Crown molding and base boards through out, recessed lighting, and much more! All new exterior paint, newer dual pane windows, and central heating and A/C. Located near Sierra View elementary school and is a must see to appreciate all the attention to details! Call me today to view this home! Price Reduced! Motivated Seller! Price: $264,900
CA-DRE lic# 1297683
Katherine O
Lori Hyne (530) 414-4902
Imm Just whic and head firep muc
Bed:
Com gran darl floo roof
kossokine@century21chico.com A beautiful, custom 4 bed./4 bath/PLUS OFFICE! 3,136 sq. ft. home w/fabulous views of Butte Creek Canyon! Upper level consist of a very exquisite kitchen w/granite counters, unique cabinets, Kitchen Aid appliances & beautiful tile flooring. Living area boast a lg. river rock gas fireplace, vaulted wood ceilings, many windows/beautiful new decking. Master bedroom has a lg. walk in closet w/skylight. 5 total skylights in home. Unique tile wk. throughout. 2 heating/ air units. 1 new in the last 2 months. Great laundry room with storage. Beautiful lower level consists of a unique wet bar area that leads into a family rm. Too much to listThis home is a must see! Bed: 4.0
Bath: 4.0 SqFt: 3,136
Price: $355,000
Bed
Into bea livin and Jac 30x 30x
Bed
Immaculate home close to Bidwell Park, In Motion Fitness, and shopping. Just in the last few months seller has made a lot of upgrades to this home which include: New paint inside and out, granite counters, new carpet, and linoleum, new shower door, faucets, low flow toilets, and new shower head. This darling home also offers a large living room, brick masonry fireplace with wood insert, large yard with beautiful landscaping, and much more.
Beautiful 5+ acre homesite in a gated community. This location is an absolute must-grab for anyone looking to escape city life for a bit and relax in their own private retreat. And at this price, how could you afford not to?
Acreage: 5.18 Price: $199,900
Bed: 4.0 Bath: 2.0 SqFt: 1,468 Price: $249,900
Lovely, well maintained 3 bed, 2 bath home in convenient central Chico location, with tile kitchen counters, eating bar, separate living and family rooms, corner fireplace and so much more! The mature landscaping, large lot and ideal location make this an home a dream come true! Bed: 3.0 Bath: 2.0 SqFt: 1,591 Price: $199,000
Come check it out! Recently upgraded with all new appliances, granite counter tops, tile floors, new fixtures and fresh paint. This darling home is located in a great neighborhood featuring an open floor plan, high ceilings, large living room with fireplace and new roof!
Darling charmer in a great avenue location, close to hospital and downtown. this property offers 2 homes in one lot. The front home has high ceilings, arched walls, living room and formal dining, ceiling fans and indoor laundry. The back home has 2 bedrooms, 1 bath living room and a kitchenette!
Bed: 3.0 Bath: 2.0 SqFt: 1,875 Price: $279,000
Bed: 4.0 Bath: 2.0 SqFt: 1,616 Price: $319,000
Intoxicating View! Located in one of the most precious gated community. This beautiful Tuscan style home offers; soaring ceilings walls of windows, spacious living room with fireplace, library, formal dining room, beautiful kitchen, bamboo and slate flooring’s, full house speaker system, fine slate surface counter tops, Jack & Jill bedrooms, Kohler visl sinks, 400 sq. ft. covered lanai with wet bar, 30x15 Pebble Tec Pool with hydraulic cover, fire pit, fountain, 2 car garage plus 30x15 shop for boat or recreational vehicle.
Behind the Iron Gates in a community of luxury homes, awaits you a 3 acre parcel. The view is magnificent and the acreage is surrounded by majestic oak trees, towering redwood trees, flowing creek and absolute tranquility. There are several idyllic spots for your dream home here.
Bed: 4.0 Bath: 3.0 SqFt: 3,050 Price: $589,000
Acreage: 3.01 Price: $120,000
ABSOLUTELY BEAUTIFUL! Located in one of chico’s finest neighborhoods and has a beautiful hill-top view. Owner financing possible!
Acreage: 1.66 Price: $99,000
Mark Reaman (530) 228-2229
MarkReaman@gmail.com CA-DRE lic# 01265853
USDA 100% financing available on this new construction! Two plans to choose from and 8 different lots at this price, 3 bedroom & two bath models with a den and 3 car garage. 90-120 day build out, call Mark for materials list and subdivision information Call Mark (530) 228-2229 Price: $290,000
Rare find and a great deal in Orland! 5 bedrooms and 5 baths, PLUS 2 offices, on over a half acre in town? WOW! 2910 sq. ft. house plus 2 heated and cooled offices with a half bath across the breezeway, and you have approximately 3150 sq. ft. for only $93/ ft. New roof, fresh exterior paint and a refinished pool. Call Dennis (530) 571-7795
Bed: 5.0 Bath: 5.0 Price: $295,000
Dennis Louber (530) 518-9252
dloubercentury21@gmail.com
CA-DRE lic# 1745939
REDUCED! Beautifully Maintained one owner home on a quite cul-de-sac, featuring 4 bedrooms and 3 full baths, formal living and dining rooms, family room with a fireplace, dining nook and a den/study. The back yard has an inground pool and plenty of patio space for summertime entertaining, this is a great property, prepare to be impressed. Call Mark (530) 228-2229
Cute and clean 3 bedroom, 2 bath home located on a quiet cul-de-sac, formal dining area and breakfast nook, nice sized back yard & new roof to installed in escrow! This one won’t last! Asking $247,500 Call Mark (530) 228-2229
Very desirable location! Still serene and secluded but close to all the comforts of Chico. This unique .59 of an acre lot spills over across Scooter Lane and runs all the way down to Marigold. 24’ X 40’ shop with power, rents for $300/ month. Scooter Lane has recently been resurfaced. Home includes an oversized, detached 2car garage! Call Dennis (530) 571-7795
Bed: 4.0
Bed: 3.0
Acreage: .59 Price:$82,500
Bath: 3.0 Price: $345,000
Bath: 2.0 Price: $247,500
CA-DRE lic# 01257669
Vikki Reimer (530) 894-4515
vikkireimer@yahoo.com www.VikkiSellsChico.com
Beautiful, custom built home in a peaceful and beautiful setting. Gourmet kitchen, granite counters, awesome master suite, bonus room/ office. Gorgeous pool, with a brand new 32x42 shop and so much more. A must see! Bed: 3.0 Bath: 2.5 SqFt: 2,840 Price: $675,000
Privacy, tranquility, peace and quiet: these all come to mind when you see this property! Nice HALF ACRE country setting on the edge of Chico. Scooter lane is a private road but they have been annexed to the city of Chico. The 2 bedroom, 2 bath mobile home is rented for $950/mo. Call Dennis (530) 571-7795
Bed: 2.0 Bath: 2.0 SqFt: 1,040 Price: $149,000
A Top Ten Agent in 2011
Sherry Landis (530) 514-4855
landis4sale@aol.com www.SherryLandis.com CA-DRE lic# 01084946
ber
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I’M ALMOST OUT OF LISTINGS! CALL ME TODAY!
l.com
5939
uiet: e this tting is a exed m, 2 /mo. 7795
Just minutes from town you will find this custom built home situated on 10 acres! This 5 bedroom home with covered porches and balconies gives you that feeling of being on vacation right in your own yard. The pond is complete with water fall, outdoor entertaining patios has a pergola, and is fenced for safety. Above the detached garage/shop you will find approximately 1,000 sq.ft. of a separate unit with bathroom. The floors are bamboo and beautiful. The main house has cherry wood floors downstairs in the kitchen and family room - counters are concrete and a wall of windows looking out your beautiful yard. The property has 15 kw solar panels and offsets PG&E costs. Too many amenities to list with this this amazing property. Call today! Bed: 5.0 Bath: 5.0 SqFt: 4,189 Price: $990,000
Immaculate newer home, situated on nearly 6 acres! Nearly brand new 25x 40 shop, a dream for all of that stuff! Roll up doors with drive thru feature. This 3/3 bath home + office looks like it is out of Restoration Hardware from the minute you step foot through the front door! These alder cabinets in the kitchen combined with walls of windows are just a few of the many great amenities this home boasts! The master is suited for a king/ or queen, so slip into that tub or that oversized shower with separate vanity areas! Lots of storage and oversized bedrooms, beautiful colors, low-e skylights and sprinkler system inside and out, also wired for a generator backup, and set up for a cellular security system! Decks to lay out and admire the view, just minutes from Chico! Bed: 3.0 Bath: 3.0 SqFt: 2,740 Price: $475,000
Where can you find an approximately 2.3 acre property near the park, backing up to Lindo Channel with a park-like back yard, a main house consisting of 3916 sq. ft., a separate guest cottage of approx. 2072, huge inground heated gunite pool, spa, and hardwood floors under carpet that have NEVER been exposed. This is a unique opportunity for your buyer to own a special property in Chico. Their own slice of heaven. The kitchen has been remodeled with beautiful corian counters, custom cabinetry, beautiful fire place, windows galore looking out to the back yard setting, storage galore- what’s not to like? Hurry, this opportunity is rare to find!!!
2.5 Acres in a very serene setting! What’s not to like? There is a fireplace, woodstove, screened in porch, dual pane windows, circular driveway with places for all sorts of toys and this and that’s! These type don’t pop up that often, close to town yet feels a million miles away!
Located at the end of the cul-de-sac this very clean home has the biggest RV area covered that I have seen in this neighborhood! These clients have more rose bushes and have taken care of this very large yard, a spa, nice screened in patio, formal dinning room, living room with fireplace! Bed: 3.0 Bath: 2.0 SqFt: 2,065 Price: $330,000
Bed: 5.0 Bath: 5.0 SqFt: 5,988 Price: $699,000
Bed: 4.0 Bath: 2.0 SqFt: 2,143 Price: $375,000
Michael Galli custom built home! Gorgeous kitchen, very large eating bar, newer granite, appliances, engineered hardwood and stone floors. The fireplace was custom built, walls of windows looking out to a beautiful in ground gunite pool, complete with pool house approximately 455 sq.ft. Bed: 5.0 Bath: 3.0 SqFt: 3,909 Acreage: 1.5 Price: $679,000
Beauty and architecture combine in this custom 4400sqft+ home on over 4 acres. This home is framed by ancient Chinese rock walls and blue oak trees in an upscale country area of custom homes. Features 5 bedrooms, 4.5 bathrooms and large downstairs office with French doors onto back porch. Master suite is a couple’s dream with a wall of windows offering a beautiful view, dressing room perfect for workout space, large walk-in closet and master bath that transports you to the spa. The kitchen is a chef’s delight with commercial range, granite counters, pantry, butler’s work area and formal dining room. The 4.2 acres provides plenty of room for horses. If only there was more room to list all that this home has to offer!! Call today and see for yourself! Bed: 5.0 Bath: 4.5 SqFt: 4,467 Price: $775,000
Located at the end of the cul-de-sac, this very large lot has a lot to offer! Two story home with 1 bedroom/ bath downstairs and 2 bedrooms upstairs, indoor laundry, roof replaced approximately 6 years ago. Bed: 3.0 Bath: 2.0 SqFt: 1,248 Price: $189,000
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UPGRADED LIVING | OCTOBER 2012 | UPGRADEDLIVING.COM
Renée Michel
MBA, FINANCIAL ADVISOR
Business
Where Does Your Money Go? by Renée Michel, MBA
Financial Advisor for Asset Management Group 2452 Lakewest Drive • Chico, CA 95928 5303422900 • 8003332901 rmichel@amgchico.com www.amgchico.com
First Time Investors | Experienced Investors Investors Seeking a Second Opinion Call Today. There is Never a Fee to Talk.
Stock & Bond Portfolio Management College Savings Plans | Rollovers | Retirement Plans
It’s been a hot topic politically and has led the headlines of most news agencies since 2008 – “Don’t spend what you don’t have!” However, as most of us know that is easier said than done. Pre-2008, it seemed as if home values could not go down and jobs were secure and easy to come by. The Great Recession slapped us in the face - jobs were lost and housing prices plummeted. It was a wakeup call for a lot of us. We had to cut back – our frivolous and impulsive spending habits had to stop. But that is easier said than done. Most of us don’t even know where our money goes each month so how can we cut back? There are some great free tools out there that can help. I personally like www.mint.com. You can link all of your accounts – checking, savings, retirement and credit cards so that all your transactions are fed into one program. The program then organizes your spending into categories (i.e. health, food, entertainment, etc…) and allows you to view multiple reports so that you can better understand your spending habits. Personally, this was a real eye opener. Coffee shops and convenience store stops for water and coffee really add up! I was shocked! I have a Keurig and a water cooler in my kitchen – why was I spending over $100 a month on these things!?!? Once you know where your money goes, you can figure out where you can reduce or cut spending. Whether you use Mint.com or another program, make it a goal to understand your finances today.
Renée Michel, MBA2452 Lakewest Drive | Chico, CA 530-342-2900 | 800-333-2901 | (F) 530-342-3925 rmichel@amgchico.com | www.amgchico.com 43
Health
Chico Spine and Wellness by Aveed Khaki
It goes without saying that there are plenty of chiropractic offices throughout Butte County, and that someone in need of chiropractic services truly does have a wealth of options to choose from. With all of the choices in the area though, you come to find that each and every office has its own specific way of doing things and no one is quite like the other. One of our personal favorites, and the one that a number of our own staff members happen to use, is Chico Spine and Wellness. Opened in January of 2010 by Dr. Vincent Commendatore and Dr. Michelle Anderson, Chico Spine and Wellness approaches chiropractic care in a very different way from what most of us have experienced in the past. Focusing on an open environment instead of long hallways with offshooting doors, the layout at Chico Spine and Wellness promotes greater visibility for the doctors, allowing them to oversee each and every one of their patients throughout their visit rather than extending long wait times to be seen in private rooms for adjustments. As we’ve come to find, the open environment not only serves to help correct structural problems within the body, but also ends up being a wonderful place to network and meet people in similar situations. This fostered camaraderie with other patients often sparks conversations about the accident or injury that brought on the need for chiropractic care in the first
place, and as anyone who has ever been laid up in traction knows, there is nothing better than a fellow patient to talk to. Naturally, private rooms also exist for conversations or treatment that require privacy or when greater privacy is requested by the patient. Drs. Commendatore and Anderson aren’t just chiropractors though, they are educators as well, and the system they have created focuses heavily on sharing their knowledge with their (above) Dr. Vincent Commendatore and Dr. Michelle patients. All new patients Anderson. (left) Chico Spine and Wellness offers the begin their set of treatments “Ideal Protein” weight loss method. with a thorough orientation that introduces them to not only the history not only allows patients to better learn from of chiropractic care and the biophysics their doctors, but allows each to learn from system used at Chico Spine and Wellness, the experiences of other patients as well. In the end, the evidence-based care but also introduces them to information about their bodies that they are probably provided at Chico Spine and Wellness has wholly unaware of. The been one that we continue to find ourselves structural walkthrough gravitating towards. The changes we’ve seen provides patients in our own bodies, through their utilization with a more in-depth of the most researched and published understanding of what it technique in all of chiropractic history, has is that is causing their pain been more than enough to encourage us to and a significantly better hold their business in the highest regard, understanding of what is and their open environment approach being done to heal it than has actually made us look forward to our you’ll often find with adjust- visits and meeting up with those who have and-go chiropractors. Each had similar experiences to our own. They patient is also given a pre- work with all insurance providers and are examination that details considered a primary care physician, so their own specific case and an outside referral is not needed. If you’re further examinations along looking to relinquish the bodily pain in the healing timeline that your life, stop by Chico Spine and Wellness allow charting of progress and see what they can do for you; if our made along the healing experience has anything to say about it, timeline. This education you’ll be glad you did.
Chico Spine & Wellness | (530) 456-1457 www.chicospineandwellness.com 44
UPGRADED LIVING | OCTOBER 2012 | UPGRADEDLIVING.COM
photographs by Erin Wenham
Ashley C. in Chico asks:
Health
I’ve spent so much time in the toothpaste aisle trying to figure out if there’s actually a difference between all the brands and options. Do you recommend a brand or a type of toothpaste? Baking r soda? Whitening? Fluoride? What should I be looking for? ou Ask ERT XP
E
Answer by Tommy Farris DDS | Nelsen Family Dentistry
Ashley, I too am a consumer and it is astounding how many choices there are in the toothbrush and toothpaste aisle. Recently I spent some time looking over the array of neatly packaged, colorful, and sparkling boxes full of toothpaste (and hasn’t the packaging changed a lot over the years) to sort out how to recommend a choice. The primary (and most important) ingredient in almost all toothpaste is fluoride. Fluoride helps strengthen teeth, which prevents cavities (where germs melt or rot the hard outer surface) and also reduces sensitivity. Keeping teeth strong is the most important job of toothpaste. In addition, different formulations have the ability to greatly improve sensitivity, keep hard germs from forming and to some degree whiten discolored teeth. And all
toothpastes should help to keep your breath minty fresh. Teeth can last a lifetime if well cared for, so routine dental visits and examinations are extremely important. We regularly will recommend specific toothpaste products for individual situations, so consulting your dental professional is a good idea when choosing your toothpaste. If you don’t need a specific product, then your personal taste can guide your choice. Just make sure it contains fluoride, that you like the feel and taste of it, and that your mouth doesn’t get sore when changing to a new product (some people react to tartar control or cinnamon formulations). We all chew hundreds of times every day. At Nelsen Family Dentistry we are committed to helping our patients keep their own natural teeth to use for a lifetime!
Nelsen Family Dentistry | (530) 898-8511 | www.nelsenfamilydentistry.com
BEAUTY BASICS AT THE DERM BAR by Dr. Vimali Paul
Having great skin is not just something we’re born with. There are steps we can take to get beautiful, glowing, clear skin. Any beauty regimen takes commitment, but the results are worth it! First: Cleanliness is key! Use a cleanser for your specific skin type (oily, combo, dry) and follow with a toner to get any residue and restore proper PH to the skin. Do this morning and evening to keep bacteria from forming. Second: Unless you are performing on stage, less makeup is more! Choose a mineralbased “clean” makeup that is non-comedogenic and won’t clog pores. Remove makeup before bed and apply a nighttime cream to keep skin hydrated, as cell renewal happens when we are at rest. Third: Sunscreen EVERY DAY! There are UVA and UVB rays present even on cloudy or rainy days. The sun causes damage to skin on a cellular level and can cause “sun spots” and even skin cancer. Pick an SPF of 30 to 50 for optimal protection. And lastly: Take care of yourself! Sleep, proper nutrition, and drinking plenty of water will keep us feeling and LOOKING good!
Derm Bar 85 Declaration Drive #100 Chico (530) 342-2672 | thedermbar.com 45
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UPGRADED LIVING | OCTOBER 2012 | UPGRADEDLIVING.COM
Hello Movers!
Health
by Scott Amick, CPT
Alas, we arrive at the feet on our noes-totoes discussion relative to health and the human body. I saved feet for last because they are commonly over-trained and under appreciated. Most folks don’t appreciate healthy feet until they stub a toe, get a blister, or step on a sharp object while barefoot. As a biomechanist I find it crucial to educate my clients on the importance of proper pedal training and its effect on the entire musculoskeletal system. After all, we are talking about “where the rubber meets the road.” If an issue exists at such a crucial anatomical location as the foot, the effects can be seen all the way up the body. A limp will eventually elicit knee, hip, back, and shoulder pain as the body attempts to compensate for the unnatural movement pattern. Preventative measures include, but are not limited to:
Proper shoe selection and arch support Stretching of the deep myofacial stabilizers Detailed hypertrophic (muscle building) exercises Foresight into possible protection requirements Gait Analysis
Much of the discomfort reported by my clientele is associated with overuse. “I’ve been on my feet all week-it’s been nonstop!” is a common complaint. My response is generally to inquire about the above list of preventative measures. Rarely does the response include consideration of said treatments. I believe that in order to implement these treatments individuals need to walk slower, enjoy the falling autumn leaves, and repetitively utilize the preventative measures. Does this sound like you? If the shoe fits.... Until next month, Move with intention. Scott Amick, CPT 2201 Pillsbury Road Chico (209) 603-4660 47
Health
Yoga as Therapy
Yoga Pose of the Month
Tree Pose
by Dr. Paula Barros, D.C. How often in your busy life can you stop and feel the quiet strength of the earth supporting you? The Tree Pose strengthens and tones the hips, legs and feet to provide a strong foundation for balance. This pose deeply connects us to our own inner grace; offering calm focus and awakened concentration.
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Standing firm with both feet placed parallel and rooted to the earth; grow your spine tall, unwavering in your focus. Contract your core, shifting your weight to the left foot.
With intention to balance, lift your right foot; placing it on your ankle, calf or thigh. With level hips, marking the stable tree trunk, gratefully place your palms together over the heart.
Lift your arms overhead, placing both shoulder blades firmly on the mid back. Breathe with reverence as if you smell the glorious mix of cedar, pine and cypress. Enjoy your steadfast placement, breathing deeply to celebrate your life.
by Dr. Paula Barros Yoga teaches us how to build a healing awareness into the very tissues of the body; replacing injury, stress and strain with vitality of blood flow. In yoga we call it “pranic flow,� which is that very life force we take in with every new breath, delivering oxygen to every nerve, cell and gland in the body, and restoring our innate wisdom and life-affirming potential. Many people who turn to yoga as a physical practice will recognize the bigger picture, which is to see the mind, body and spirit in a symphonic harmony, where healing begins at a deeper level . As the mind settles, the body stretches and breath deepens, exploring the relaxed freedom of movement. As we recover from injury, the body asks for a mindful and compassionate way to rebuild itself. Yoga is that tool. The knowledge that comes from the practice of yoga allows us to slowly and respectfully rebuild the injured tissues. This action comes from the inside out, as we bring our conscious breath into every movement and allow the cycles of stretch and strength to integrate all parts of ourselves, moment by moment. Every time a yoga posture (asana) is practiced,
For more information about yoga as therapy, visit www.clearyoga. com or call Dr. Paula Barros at 530-894-8756 to learn how yoga therapy can help you realize your own self-healing potential.
ClearCreekYoga@gmail.com 530 894 8756 | www.clearyoga.com 48
UPGRADED LIVING | OCTOBER 2012 | UPGRADEDLIVING.COM
something phenomenal happens; we become more deeply connected to our healing potential. For instance, when low back injury inhibits daily activities, we look for more careful ways to move, and are required to slow down and become reflective. Yoga practice will inform the legs, hips and pelvis how to move synergistically to support the recovery of low back strain. In yoga therapy, I provide equal attention to the aerobic, as well as the restorative asanas. A simple measure to relieve low back pain is to begin stretching the hips open, and lengthen the hamstrings and quadriceps, so the legs carry your weight; relieving the irritation to lumbar (low back) spinal irritations. Great attention is also kept toward maintaining balance of strength and flexibility; which yields increased support to all the joints in the body. Life has its peculiar twists and turns, stress manifests in weakness and injury, but the daily practice of yoga affirms our capacity to heal ourselves. If your own sense of well-being wavers, find yourself restored by a daily yoga practice; allowing the therapeutic aspects of yoga to renew your zest for life.
Creatures
by Aveed Khaki
One of Kirshner’s newest additions, this little white tiger was born on May 27, 2012. She will be part of an ongoing research project at the Kirshner Wildlife Sanctuary and will be a mainstay in the conservation and endangered species program. She will be a permanent resident at the Kirshner Wildlife Sanctuary and is currently looking for a sponsor. Sponsorship is tax deductible and the sponsor will have the honor of naming her. Start a company pool, go in on it with a group of friends, or come down and sponsor her yourself. She’ll provide valuable information and fun for young and old alike for years to come, and your donation will make it all possible.
Kirshner | 4995 Durham-Pentz Road, Oroville | (530) 533-1000 |
kirshner.org
50% OFF WELLNESS BLOOD PROFILE WITH PAID PHYSICAL EXAMINATION UP TO A $65 SAVINGS - DOGS, CATS & HORSES
Now Open CALL 342.0725
TO SCHEDULE AN APPOINTMENT
*Cannot be combined with any other offer. Offer expires 12/30/12
Simple Prevention for Sneaky Issues by Dawn Alves, BS, DVM
At this time of year we have enough spooks and surprises jumping from the shadows and giving us a good scare. Health issues in our pets can be those same scary surprises if we don’t keep on top of them. Early detection testing and prevention can be performed for many of the quiet “sneakers” that can ease into the lives of our beloved pets if we don’t watch out for them. A lot of the time simple blood testing along with a physical examination can reveal the early onset of many common illnesses. Preventative testing and examination is especially important as our pets age. . . the older they become, the more commonly problems arise. The good news is that many issues, when detected early, can be treated or controlled very effectively. For example, Heartworms can be prevented by monthly dosing with oral or topical products or with a single injection every 6 months. Dental disease can be controlled with brushing, dental chews, oral rinses or water additives along with periodic cleanings. Organ compromise can often be managed with diet changes or specific medications. Hormonal imbalances can be treated with supplementation or medications that decrease excess levels. Knowledge is the key. Know what spooks are out there and what might be threatening your pets. Annual examinations really do provide valuable information that keeps our pets healthy. Periodic blood testing can detect early problems so they can be managed before they become critical. Do you know whether thyroid Let’s keep the creepy levels are commonly sneakers limited to too low or too high Halloween. We are when they are out of here to help. Please balance in our pets? contact us if you have see answer below any concerns about your pets or have questions about this topic. Too low (hypothyroid) in dogs and too high (hyperthyroid) in cats.
Kirshner
All About Pets Veterinary Hospital All About Equine Veterinary Services 49
Country Pumpkins
by Amber Abney
Most of us begin to think of pumpkins in early October, generally because the icon of the Halloween season begins to pop up all around us. Life is a little different for Steve & Becky Gruenwald and their 3 sons, who created Country Pumpkins in Orland back in 2000. They started on a 3 acre piece on Hwy 99 and County Road 9. There was a small pumpkin patch, and a corn maze that first year. Historically, the Glenn County 4H clubs collaborated to put together a Halloween Haunted House at the fairgrounds. Each club built a scene in the Haunted House, volunteered, and staffed it during open hours. The clubs charged an admission fee, and used this as a main fundraiser for years. In 2001, the Haunted House at the fairgrounds closed down, and the Gruenwalds were there to help these local 4H Clubs. Both Steve & Becky are San Luis Obispo, Cal Poly alumni, and have agriculture 50
degrees, so helping out the 4H kids was a natural fit for them. To accommodate the 4H clubs, the pumpkin patch was increased to 2 acres, and the corn maze was built on 5 acres. The corn maze became the fundraiser that would replace the previous Haunted House. Every club remained involved throughout the process, from preparation to cleanup. For each day that a club hosted the maze, that club received the admissions earned! The word was getting out, and 4H clubs were getting publicity from the TV, radio and newspaper coverage. The event grew to include Chico television stations hosting their entire morning shows from Country Pumpkins. These 4H kids worked hard to increase awareness for their fundraiser, including conducting most of the television and radio interviews themselves. In 2003, it was time to grow, again. So now they were offering 4 acres of pumpkins, and a corn maze of 7 acres. Another change was made that year, the 4H clubs decided that they would pool all of the proceeds
from the season, and then equally share them between the clubs. Stoney Creek 4H introduced a petting zoo in to the ranch in 2008. Things were growing steadily, but sometimes it isn’t until we face adversity that we learn the impact we have made on other lives. In 2009, after 8 years of great success and momentum Country Pumpkins faced a horrible mess. A very wet and windy storm struck. The storm brought strong winds with gusts in excess of 50 mpg. The 4H kids got their first dose of how agriculture is truly affected by the weather. The ranch had been open for just one weekend that year, and the corn maze was flattened. So like true farmers, the 4Hers took what Mother Nature had given them, and they carried on with the Petting Zoo. Country Pumpkins moved to its current location, 7152 Hwy 32 in 2011. With the 2012 season, a few more changes were made. After being approached by many other nonprofit and community organizations, the
Family Night
October 5th & 6th 6-9 pm Corn Maze open with no Haunting. Come out and enjoy the Hay Pyramid and Slide.
decision was made to begin a new outreach and communication project. One thing that the storm of 2009 taught the Gruenwalds was that Country Pumpkins had become exactly what they hoped it would be. A local ranch that would provide local families with pumpkins for the holidays, while supporting the youth of their community. There is always lots going on at the ranch during the season, and it’s not just all about pumpkins. Visitors can view the observation bee hive, or purchase produce, honey or nuts in the Country Store. The petting zoo, hay pyramid and the corn box offer great fun to kids of all ages. The corn box is essentially a sand box but it is full of corn kernels! From time to time, you can find a balloon artist at the ranch, but that’s as commercial as they venture. “No bouncy houses, or anything like that out here. We want people to experience a true ranch experience, and see there is a lot of natural fun out here,” Becky explains. The corn maze can be enjoyed every day
The Gruenwald family in front of their corn maze in Orland.
from 10am-6pm. All of the $3 admission goes directly to the 4-H program. Please come support our youth that work hard to bring you this maze. Remember, the maze is packed with soil, so it is best to wear closed toed shoes. There are three different paths offered in the maze, and shorter paths are clearly marked for a kid-friendly adventure! The Haunted Maze begins on October 12th, and every Friday and Saturday, visitors can experience the Haunted Maze from 7pm-10pm. There is an $8 admission, and
is only available to those over 10 years of age. A ten acre maze comes to life with ghosts, vampires, grim reapers and more. Bring a small flashlight or depend on the moon to guide your way! (Open October 12th, 13th, 19th, 20th, 26th, and 27th rain or shine.) Country Pumpkins will begin its 2012 season on October 1st. There is no general admission charge or parking fee to get into Country Pumpkins, and pumpkins begin at $1, and they accept cash or check only. They are open rain or shine, everyday.
For more information, visit the at www.countrypumpkins.net photographs on left courtesy Country Pumpkins, photograph on right by Clark Miller
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Chico’s Newest Memory Support Community Opening in Chico October 2012
For people with memory loss & their families. Exceptional Care. Quality Service. Compassionate Team.
Visit Our Community We are welcoming our first residents in October! Call to schedule a tour, learn about the vision for our community and meet the team. For more information contact Jane Heller at 826-3226 or jheller@seniorityinc.com.
Amber Grove Place offers the Chico area an unsurpassed level of care for those with all stages of memory loss, and to their families and friends.
Come Meet Our Exceptional Team. Call Us Today 530-826-3226
Amber Grove Place Alzheimer’s & Memory Support Community 3049 Esplanade | Chico, CA 95973 | 530-826-3226 AmberGrovePlace.com Serving Seniors and their Families in the North State Area
Arts
t rt
o
Artist Profile:
Caitlin Schwerin by Aveed Khaki
photography by Michelle Camy
(top) Caitlin Schwerin adds the finishing touches to one of her 1,385 pieces. (bottom) Schwerin poses outide her local studio.
Born and raised in Larkspur, California, Caitlin Schwerin is one of those Chico imports that this town simply can’t seem to get enough of. Whether it’s her contagiously sheepish smile or her unwavering humility in the face of success, there is just something about her that is purely magnetic, and the art that she produces, as anyone who has seen it will likely agree, possesses that same quality. A graduate of Redwood High School, Caitlin lacked the innate interest in art that often seems so pervasive throughout notable artists’ earlier years. Her original dream, to become a world-renown journalist, was
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Arts
interrupted though by her first true college love interest, an artist whose passion for the creative moved and inspired her in such a way that she decided to take up the brush herself and begin to dabble in the arts. Dabbling quickly turned into infatuation and Caitlin found that the life she was leading outside of her art sphere wasn’t all that she had originally wanted; realizing the need for self-discovery, she left Chico and made the trip back to Marin. Six years later, settled in who she was and locked in on her forward bearings, Caitlin moved back to Chico to pursue art as a career. Matured and relinquishing the anxiety associated with needing to impress others with her work, Caitlin put in her time at Chico State and graduated a few short years later with a fine arts degree. Encouraged by friends and family, she began to showcase her work around town, and found her first true artist home at Chico’s Black Crow Restaurant. After the Black Crow’s unfortunate closing in 2009, Caitlin’s art found a new home at Monks Wine Lounge
From the selfmade frames, to the recycled canvases and added object textures, there is something visceral about every component of her pieces...
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and Bistro in Downtown Chico and has remained there ever since, becoming as synonymous with the restaurant’s experience as the wines they serve. Not one to be outdone by the success of her own work, Caitlin decided it was time to try her hand at a new challenge and moved to Portland, Oregon for two years, taking another hiatus to experience new people, scenery, and moments, or as she puts it, “seeds for new paintings.” In 2011
UPGRADED LIVING | OCTOBER 2012 | UPGRADEDLIVING.COM
she ended her time away and was welcomed back into the arms of the community that she considers an investing family that you actually want to see all the time. To date, Caitlin has catalogued 1,385 pieces of her own work, and the style that was once criticized by professors as being overly commercial has taken hold in the community. The vibrant colors, warmth and unabashed simplicity of the imagery in her pieces stand out in a world of art that is often times confusing and difficult to consolidate. She paints a picture of euphoric happiness that is undeniably easy to relate to and it is no surprise to us that her paintings have been so well received as a result of it. From the self-made frames, to the recycled canvases and added object textures, there is something visceral about every component of her pieces that seems to strike at our inner core, and whatever that something may be, it is clear that the recipe is spot on. Caitlin’s work can be found at her current artist home, Monks Wine Lounge and Bistro in Downtown Chico, as well as Cafe Flo starting on September 19th, Gale Vineyards during the Sierra Oro Farm Trail on October 6th & 7th, and at Portland’s famous Hunt and Gather restaurant in late October.
Arts
Artist Profile:
Sarah K Ward by Briana Lindstrom
Articulate, soulful and wise beyond her years, Sarah K Ward finds beauty in the juxtapositions that exist in life and paints them into compositions that she describes as “pretty little time capsules.” She possesses an intriguing balance of strength and kindness that is apparent from the first few moments of meeting her, and all of these exceptional qualities are reflected in her art. Monday afternoons in 6th grade rooted her brush in oils as she learned to paint with friends in the back studio of Art Etc. With a strong foundation of talent and love for all forms of art, Sarah is now a Junior at Inspire School of Arts & Sciences where she continues to grow and learn in an environment that allows her creative voice to be both challenged and encouraged. She has already impressed us with her natural ability and endearing personality and we are proud to say this homegrown Chico girl is one to keep your eye on!
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UPGRADED LIVING | OCTOBER 2012 | UPGRADEDLIVING.COM
UL: What do you like about Chico? SW: The Saturday morning market..
UL: Have you learned anything about yourself or the world around you through your own artistic process? SW: I find myself creating color palettes for people. It helps me understand them in a more honest way.
UL: Why did you choose to attend Inspire? SW: I didn’t feel like CHS or PV offered anything creative or caring. All the cool, interesting things that people have-- they aren’t afraid to show at Inspire. It’s more supportive and art is ridiculously personal.
UL: What are 3 words to describe yourself? SW: Thoughtful, passion fruit, initially emotional.
you bump into someone and it doesn’t turn into anger and frustration. You make eye contact, smile, actually it’s quite lovely and something we take for granted.
UL: Do those 3 words come out in
your art?
SW: I think all my favorite pieces
have an initial emotional feeling.
UL: What inspires you to paint? SW: The things I’m most attracted
UL: What artists inspire you? SW: Charles Bukowski has a poem
to are nostalgic and a little sweet. Poignant and vaguely Wes Andersonish. And whales.. I’m rather fond of whales.
“Bluebird” and it’s been a source of inspiration for a long time. It’s awfully wonderful.
UL: Do you listen to music while you
paint? SW: It depends on my mood. Childish Gambino, Neutral Milk Hotel.. When I’m mixing colors I’m more inclined to listen to upbeat silly songs, when I’m focusing on detail something calm like Fleet Foxes or Ella Fitzgerald. UL: What advice do you have for
young artists? SW: To consume as much art as they can.
UL: Do you see yourself as an artist forever? SW: I think I’ll always have artistic results at the end of whatever I do. I don’t know if I will sustain myself with my paintings, but I like to capture beauty and bottle it up. UL: What’s your favorite color? SW: I don’t know how to describe it.
A really muted muddy dusty rose.
UL: What’s your favorite quote? SW: “Too weird to live, too rare to
die” --Hunter S. Thompson
Profile photo by Erin Wenham
Arts
UL: Do you like to have direction on your
Artist Profile:
Marty Parker
by Briana Lindstrom Self-proclaimed “terrible student” and flunker of high school art, a series of flukes have led Marty Parker to embrace things he never thought he would. Now he finds himself in school almost every day working on his 13th year as a teacher’s aide in special education at Sierra View elementary, and he is a prominent figure in the local art scene as a well-respected and commissioned muralist. He is self-taught and has developed his own system to perfect his craft. Using house paints in shampoo bottles, paper plate palettes and scaffolding, he creates bold designs and likes his murals to give high-impact messages that he hopes “provide positive stimulation every time people look at them.”
commissioned pieces, or do you just paint from your mind? MP: The more freedom I have, the better. If there are expectations or criteria, it amps up my anxiety. I’m always noticing cool designs and cool color palettes in the world. I like stuff that looks bold and on top of that I really like to make something that has a high impact message. For example, the Catalyst mural is in a residence where a lot of abused people are going to be seeing it. The message I wanted to convey was gentle hands so that’s where the hand with the butterfly came in. UL: Do you listen to music while you
paint?
MP: Yes I do, and I listen to a lot of audio
books. My favorite physical condition to be in is when I’m totally engaged in my painting and totally engaged in my audio book at the same time. It’s this beautiful weird zen thing. Like this is work, but it feels too good to be work, so how could this be work? If I have a big project I’ll blow through 100’s of hours of audio books.
UL: What inspires you in the world? MP: I can’t think of what inspires me, but I
can tell you that I have a total paint fetish. I love the sight and smell of of goopy, wet paint. Sometimes a paint color strikes
me just-so, and I would eat it if it wasn’t a bunch of awful chemicals. It’s a very pleasant feeling to dip a big, clean brush into some beautiful paint. UL: What’s your favorite color? MP: Mustard. UL: What are 3 words you describe
yourself with?
MP: Kind, curious, private. UL: Does your art express those 3 words? MP: I hope kindness and curiosity sneak
in there.
UL: Have you learned anything about
yourself, or the world through your own artistic process? MP: Making art teaches me to overcome self-doubt. Every project comes with a little demon, a sleazy little character, who whispers in my ear, “You’re going to blow it. You can’t do it. You’re a fraud,” but somehow I prove him wrong. UL: What’s the most beautiful thing you’ve
ever seen?
MP: Winged Migration, the documentary
that follows migratory birds all over the planet. I watch it about once a year, and I’m awestruck and teary-eyed every time.
UL: What is your favorite quote? MP: “In art, the hand can never execute
anything higher than the heart can imagine.” Ralph Waldo Emerson
Marty has murals at Sierra View and Neal Dow elementary schools and Catalyst Women’s Services Safe House (shown here). To learn more, or commission a piece, contact Marty at constableomlette@yahoo.com. 59
Arts
Local artist profiles
Candy Matthews, Susi and Mike Gillum
530-570-3895 “Student Art Show” now thru Oct. 336 Broadway, Suite 20 (above House of Rice)
A New Leaf exhibition at Avenue 9, featuring art from Candy Matthews (“Hosta”: top) and jewelry from Mike and Susi Gillum (Copper ore amber pendant: bottom), will show Nov 2nd thru December 1st.
Chico Art School Painting and Drawing Lessons taught by Janet Lombardi Blixt All levels, age 7+ and Adult Classes Afterschool, Homeschool & Saturdays. Email for year round class schedule:
Avenue 9 Gallery 180 East 9th Avenue, Chico 530-879-1821
janet@chicoartschool.com
Artober Sale 25% savings on all art glass in the Park Ave. Gallery
Tuesday Oct 2 to Saturday Oct 6 Bruce Sillars Master in his craft Viewing hours: Monday – Friday 10am – 1pm (viewing hours may vary)
Orient & Flume 2161 Park Ave, 95928 Gallery hours: Monday – Saturday 10am – 5pm 530-893-0373 Ext.3 www.orientandflume.com Orient & Flume world renowned Art Glass 1972 - 2012
All Fired Up! Ceramic Art Center
830 Broadway Chico www.allfiredupchico.org
(530) 894-5227
(closed Sunday/Monday)
Janice Hofmann Art tile adds value and esthetics to your living and professional spaces. Visit Bustolini’s deli (corner of Broadway and 8th streets) to see a logo translated into tile art. Janice creates murals and art tile to suit any design requirements. Thanks to Dave Simcox for the bee design.
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UPGRADED LIVING | OCTOBER 2012 | UPGRADEDLIVING.COM
Spaces
Lisa P. of Gridley asks:
Now that Fall is here, I want to prepare for the change of season. Is there anything I should do to my trees to prepare?
our Ask ERT XP
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Answer by Marc Wesley CTSP As fall comes into bloom the nights get earlier and cooler. Colors begin to change around us and nature displays its great scene. But it is important to keep our plants and trees healthy throughout the winter so they can continue to show their beauty during the other seasons. You can place three to four inches of mulch around the root zone of your trees and shrubs. This will help moderate the temperature in the soil. Make sure that you keep the mulch a few inches away from the trunk as mulch holds moisture and moisture could cause decay in trunks.
It is a good time to have your trees trimmed before winter arrives. When trees go dormant it is less likely for them to become hosts for diseases. Another good way to protect your trees from disease when getting pruned is to make sure you hire professionals that sterilize their tools between trees. You want to have your trees cleaned out before winter arrives to help the dead, broken and already too-heavy limbs fall down. Look around your roof line. Are there limbs that will rub when the wind blows and cause damage? Are there limbs that seem to bow at the end? If so you should call us and we can help prepare you for winter this fall.
M&S Wesley Tree Service | ISA Certified Arborist 8458A (530)343-6809 | www.mswtree.com
As the smoke clears, and we get back to enjoying the outdoors this fall, Upgraded Living would like to give a special thanks to the brave and committed firefighters of Butte and surrounding counties. We salute you!
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Places within a short drive of the Northern Valley Getaways
Ashland, OR
:: Google Map Search Term: “Ashland, OR�
Ashland in the fall is a beautiful sight. Tree-lined streets, a quaint downtown full of boutiques, bookstores and unique dining options and perfect weather to welcome the change of season are all great reasons to take the quick drive up north. Theatre is alive as always at the University, the Shakespeare Festival, and the local community theaters. Creeks flow through town and cute bridges and walkways make exploring the area even more enjoyable. The people are friendly and the pace is relaxed. This fall, find a weekend and head out to Ashland where you can take a deep breath, slow down and lose yourself in the mix of outdoor markets, fine dining and natural beauty. Photograph by Clark Miller | Text by Briana Lindstrom
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UPGRADED LIVING | OCTOBER 2012 | UPGRADEDLIVING.COM
Getaways
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is pleased to announce
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Bernadette Connolly Physician Assistant
Medical Training
Medical Training
Loma Linda University School of Medicine Residency: University of Cincinnati
Christine Sloop, M.D. Obstetrics and Gynecology, Registered Dietitian Medical Training Loma Linda University School of Medicine
Western University of Health Sciences School of Medicine
Sally J. Vertolli Nurse Practitioner, RN Medical Training School of Medicine, University of California/Davis
111 Raley Blvd. Suite #140, Chico
530-342-5776 Call to schedule your appointment today!