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FROM THE EDITOR April is known for its inability to decide if winter is really over and spring has definitely sprung. As a result, the weeks and days can be both formidable and festive. Many of my family members have birthdays this month; some of the ages being reached are reflective, others joyous. The 17th replaces the often dreaded middle of the month date. I seriously doubt that two days will make much of a difference to too many procrastinators—like me. The festive side of April offers something for everyone. The 20th is Paradise’s Tour ‘de Chocolate where both bike riders and chocolate lovers can peacefully coexist. The 21st has a plethora of opportunity for the fun lovers to choose. AMain Cycling, our cover story, has their grand opening, the California Nut Festival out at the Patrick Ranch Museum, and the Wildflower Music Festival at the end of Normal Avenue in the “Field of Dreams” all take place on this packed Saturday. My question is, “How tough are you?” I suggest making it a myriad memorable day and hit them all! Up on the ridge, Gold Nugget Days follows on the weekend of the 27th through the 29th. And, of course, the wildly popular Chico Wildflower Century bike ride takes place on Sunday, the 29th! This particular event brings us full circle and back to the formidable side of April. Not surprisingly, our April issue is all about bikes. Each supporting article, from bike safety to bike fitting, tips for family rides and just where those best trails are, fill the pages with a wealth of information. For the avid riders out there, we also offer the inside scoop to races and rides in what is termed “semi-local” events. They take place from the Sacramento area to north of Redding and will get the biking enthusiasts through the entire year! I found myself a bit mystified surrounding the buzz of just who is Ross Lawler. Those of you who googled his name, know far more than I ever have. I knew him as my dad’s best friend who stood by us at our family’s darkest time. He bartered the deal to sell our Salem home and the subsequent move into our house on Cottage Ave. He brought “Amber,” the beautiful and loving golden retriever to this home. I attempt to describe this house on this month’s backpage. From my vantage point as a witness to all things Chico, I leave you with this to ponder. For every gleeful ghost of Ross Lawler exists the keen vision of Mark Francis. On to May and its flowers that certainly all our deserving mothers will receive!
UPGRADED LIVING STAFF AVEED KHAKI Publisher/Owner KEVIN DOLAN Editor-in-Chief
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Backpage For advertising or editorial inquiries, please contact: Upgraded Living at 530.894.8091 Sales@UpgradedLiving.com
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CONTENTS APRIL 2018 COMMUNITY
FOOD
10 Meet Cool Kid, Preston Lawson and
42 Sicilian Cafe blends blood oranges with
you, too, may own one of his ceramic fortune cookies!
12 Our cover story takes you inside the newest bike shop in town, AMain Cycling, and what a wonderful treat this will prove to be.
52 Be prepared to be amazed as we shine a bright spotlight on our AIDS/LifeCycle bike team.
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63 Backpage—Our Editor-in-Chief goes back to visit his childhood home.
HEALTH & BEAUTY 26 Awareness of our daily routine is the first step to better posture.
of acupuncture may be the right answer to your pain relief.
30 Discover how “just plain fun” this season’s Spring fashion are!
HOME & GARDEN 36 Newly engaged Andy and Lorretta get the gift of a fully functional design from New Again Kitchen Remodeling.
39 Personalize your rental space with these hints and suggestions.
46 DIY—Hardback books meet cacti in this clever makeover.
ON THE COVER: AMAIN CYCLING PHOTO BY: FRANK REBELO DESIGN BY: NERISSA QUINN
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43 TAPS offers a perfectly planned pesto pasta.
ARTS 59 Michael Sterling crafts furniture from Chico’s world famous wood.
FEATURE 50 Chico Sports LTD explains just how to get the perfect bike fit.
51 Learn how “Safety First” just may be a life saving message.
28 “Ah, that’s it!” Find out how the other kind
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sea scallops for a delightful dish.
54 Find family tips for the perfect ride and just where, locally, you can find the perfect trails.
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WRITTEN BY RYLEE ROSENQUIST PHOTO PROVIDED BY PRESTON LAWSON
Caring Dentistry from Toddler to Teen Years Dr. Kimberly Lange, DDS General Dentist
C O O L K I D : P R E S T O N L AW S O N 650 RIO LINDO AVE. #4, CHICO 343-3137
If you’re a frequent customer at the local store, Made In Chico, you may have noticed the charming little ceramic fortune cookies sitting on a shelf waiting to be purchased and taken home. What you may not have known is that these miniature masterpieces are made by a Cool Kid in Chico: Preston Lawson. Preston is a 17-year-old junior at Inspire School of Arts and Sciences, and he has already established himself as a successful local artist and entrepreneur. Preston’s interest in ceramics began at an early age. His mother, having pottery experience, encouraged him to try out a ceramics summer camp when he was in fourth grade. From then on, his love for ceramics continued to grow and has become his favorite hobby and a source of two incomes. One is his business, Preston’s Pottery, where he sells his own creations at both Made In Chico and Chico Ceramics Center. He also teaches classes at Chico Ceramics Center— beginning classes every Thursday which he co-teaches with the owner, and he also offers private lessons for $20/hour per person. You can add another person and make it a group event for an additional $15/hour per person!
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A form of pottery which Preston particularly favors is “raku,” in which a work is removed from the kiln when it is still red hot using five-foot-long tongs, and is then thrown into what is essentially a trash can. This can be a risky method of firing, as creations are much more likely to break in the process, potentially destroying hours of work. Preston explains it as turning “trash into treasure and treasure into trash.” If the work is still intact when removed from the trash, it can result in a beautiful masterpiece, and for that reason, raku is a risk Preston is willing to take. Like many artists, Preston finds peace while in the studio, and jokes that “the whole point of ceramics is that it’s cheaper than therapy.” Preston hopes to spread his passion for the art form to others by one day possibly becoming a professor of ceramics. He is also highly interested in chemistry, as thermal chemistry plays a large role in ceramics. Preston is grateful for all the knowledge he has gained in his lifetime and feels it would be wrong of him not to share it with others. Make sure the next time you stop by Made In Chico you pick up one of Preston’s creations, or better yet, stop by Chico Ceramics Center for a lesson!
Efficient and resourceful. Gayle Aylward, Agent Insurance Lic#: 0691589 1277 East Avenue, Ste 110 Chico, CA 95926 Bus: 530-895-1356 www.gayleaylward.com
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Registered representative offering securities and advisory services through Cetera Advisor Networks LLC (doing insurance business in CA as CFGAN Insurance Agency), member FINRA/SIPC. Advisory services also offered through Sweeney & Michel, LLC, a registered investment adviser. Cetera is under separate ownership from any other named entity. CA insurance license # 0I22683 & 0H82321
Volatility Strikes Back
BY RENEE MICHEL, MBA, AND JOE SWEENEY, CFP ®, FINANCIAL ADVISORS AT ASSET MANAGEMENT GROUP
Did you know that there were only 4 days during 2017 when the market
HAVE A PLAN AND STICK TO THE PLAN.
dropped more than 1%? The calmness of 2017 was not normal market
If you understand the rationale behind your investment strategy and how
behavior. 2017 was a remarkable year and until January 26, 2018 it
it fits in with your overall objectives, you’re much less likely to give in to
appeared we’d have a repeat performance. However, volatility returned,
fear. Consciously remind yourself of your financial goals. If your goals
and the market fell 10% from its highs by February 8th. We saw some
haven’t changed, recent shifts in the markets shouldn’t change your plan.
sharp price moves in early February and panicked investors started to worry if another 2008 was on the horizon. But sharp price moves aren’t
UNDERSTAND YOUR ATTITUDE ABOUT RISK AND CALIBRATE
abnormal; during the 38 years from 1980–2017, the S&P 500 had an
IT OVER TIME.
average pullback of -13.8%. Despite the drops, the market closed the
In general, the more financial return you pursue the more risk you
year with a positive return 29 of those 38 years.
should to be willing to take on. Market pullbacks offer an opportunity to test your comfort level with risk. If you can’t sleep at night for fear of
There will always be volatility in the market and acknowledging this
what’s happening to your investments, it’s time to give us a call and talk
reality is fundamental to your success. Achieving better long-term
about risk.
returns requires discipline, focus, and a commitment to following a strategy. More importantly…
Source: Standard & Poor's. Stocks are represented by the S&P 500, an unmanaged index generally considered to be representative of the U.S. stock market. Past performance is not a guarantee of future results. This is a hypothetical example used for illustrative purposes only and excludes important factors like transaction costs and management fees. You cannot invest directly in an index.
Renée Michel, MBA and Joe Sweeney, CFP® | 2452 Lakewest Drive, Chico, CA 95928 530-342-2900 | 800-333-2901 | (F) 530-342-3925 | rmichel@amgchico.com | www.sweeneymichelamg.com Securities and advisory services offered through Cetera Advisor Networks LLC (doing insurance business in CA as CFGAN Insurance Agency), member FINRA/SIPC. Cetera is under separate ownership from any other named entity.
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People, Pedals, & Pints The word “amain” has been around since the early 1500’s. It is the combination of the letter “a” with other words to gain emphasis like afoot and about. The actual word “amain” is defined as—“with full force, at full speed, exceedingly, greatly.” AMain Cycling located at 2070 E. 20th Street, Suite 100, Chico, is all of that and, actually, a bit more. This bike shop is all about the combination of things. For instance, the blending together of the brick and mortar store with the online reality. In other words, they care deeply about two things: bikes and people. This became crystal clear to me once I passed through those double doors. I instantly became immersed in an impressive array of bikes and greeted by a collection of intentional, caring people. This story is not unlike arriving at the welcome center at Lassen National Park and deciding which trail to take first. For the first time shopper, the bike shop itself presents the 12
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same myriad choices. However, I am going to twist that phrase around and introduce the people first. There are over 100 total employees making up the sum of the bike shop, the hobby store and the warehouse. Like most stories, it is best to start at the very beginning. That narrows that number to three people. Kendall and Kelly Bennett are both Cofounders and owners of AMain Sports & Hobbies, which includes AMain Cycling. Kendall, the gentle giant with the charming Australian accent, made his way from Australia to Chico via the booming tech industry. Kelly, with her infectious, upbeat personality and beaming smile, spent much of her time between Santa Cruz and Colorado, eventually migrating her way to Chico. They met in 2000 in one of those whirlwind moments that often springs from a phone calling saying, “Dude,
WRITTEN BY KEVIN DOLAN PHOTOS BY FRANK REBELO
you need to come out and meet this girl,” kind of prompting. Kendall and Kelly’s success story also matches many of the same paths as other highly successful companies. They started the hobby portion of their business venture in their garage in 2004. In 2009, the couple found themselves approaching 40 and asked, well, should we have a family? The result is their daughter Meagan, now seven. Kelly did take a three year hiatus from work to be a full time mom. Officially, Kendall is the CEO and Kelly refers to herself as the CPO, as in Chief People Officer. This title goes far beyond merely Human Resources and reveals the importance of people to this business. The couple readily admits that the success of AMain Cycling is not just about them but also their “jack of all trades” valued employee, Brandon Steinle, and everyone who works at AMain Sports & Hobbies. Brandon, with his impish smile and relaxed, clearly not stressed demeanor, is a born and raised local boy. His official title is VP of the Distribution Center, including the bike shop, retail hobby store and warehouse. Kelly took a quick look around the vast cycle shop and stated, “This is Brandon’s baby, he tends to do those things we do not or cannot do.” Brandon credits this to his flexibility and ability to react to spur of the moment needs. When looking into his watchful eyes, it is not difficult to believe Brandon when he says, “Whatever comes up, I get it done.” It is also easy to understand just how valuable Kendall and Kelly consider Brandon to be to the overall success of this venture.
The couple purchased Cyclesport, a small bike shop on the corner of 2nd and Main, in 2014. Interested in moving to a larger location and rebranding, the search for a new site ensued. Little did they know at the time just how fortuitous this decision would prove. A landlord brought them to an open retail space on 20th Street that was connected to The Handlebar Restaurant and Specialty Beer Pub. The decor of this establishment is all about bikes. The new name, AMain Cycling, had its debut by moving right into this new space. The Handlebar, coordinating with AMain Cycling, did an expansion including a glass enclosed sitting and sipping area located right in the new bike shop. The restaurant reopened at about the same time as the cycle shop. Kendall and Kelly were also informed that not one, but two new hotels would be opening across from their existing parking lot. Coupled with the fact that the fast moving Meriam Park is also headed that way, the prospect of increased foot traffic appears bright. The majority of current “walk-in’s” consists of focused customers that are serious about their needs. Casual and first time riders are also welcome into the shop as well. And, oh what a shop they will find themselves walking into! AMain Cycling is an inviting and, yes, impressive, retail space. With over 300 bikes on display from floor to ceiling, the room turns into a delightful kaleidoscope of seats, frames and wheels. It is certainly difficult to decide just which way to venture forth first. They believe this inventory is critical
due to the fact that these bikes are all right in the customer’s face in every size and color. There is also the most sophisticated fitting area I have ever seen. Evan Billman explained the use of the massage table. A physical test of the flexibility and range of motion in each rider is a necessary part of the prefitting assessment. This allows for the proper adjustment on the bike matching the individual capabilities of the rider with the most comfortable position. “It is all about speed,” Evan says, “The faster you go, the more uncomfortable it is.” Therefore, it comes down to the goals of each rider and their uniques needs; whether to complete a 100 mile ride, actually race, or compete in a triathlon. The fit comes down to the balance between speed and comfort. Every bike rider at any age or level can be taken care of, including a focus on women in biking; both mountain and road. The entire experience is the feeling of being immersed in everything bikes. In addition, it would be fascinating simply to go next door, grab a pint, take a seat in the sipping room and watch what may unfold right before your eyes. Kendall sees all of this all through a different lens. He believes that the experiential aspect is a necessary addition, adding a component that is simply “more than products on shelves.” He understands the impact of that notion of marrying the online component directly to the retail space. As an example, in this case, it is possible to order a product online and have the advantage of picking it up that same day. In his eyes, AMain Sports 13
& Hobbies is driving the next generation of retail. He points out the critical need of capturing the current generation of consumers who simply start their shopping on their phones. He puts it this way. “No one wants to go to a big box store and buy a can of paint—especially if they cannot find it. They want to KNOW IT IS THERE.” He notes that this is a huge deal, this marriage of both entities. Once the customer comes in to get the can of paint they will most assuredly purchase additional items. The bike shop itself allows for a platform that is naturally connected, organically a part of this local area. The obvious connection to The Handlebar represents this concept, but the manifestation of possibilities goes even further. AMain plans on conducting rides right from the shop. Sort of, the let’s go on this ride and come back for a cold drink. Kendall insists this is doing retail right and will serve as the forefront of overall consumer change. He further wishes to make this a model to use to help merge the online industry with the brick and mortar world. All of this, of course, with the emphasis of doing things right. The entire crew that makes up the personal side of AMain Cycling wants everyone to know that they are definitely about Chico. This comes to light as soon as you walk through the doors, as it is difficult not to notice the eye catching bright red Chico cruiser bike, as well as graphics of the local area and local riders. They want people to understand this entire concept and readily embrace it. AMain sponsored the downtown criterium this year and, in addition, sponsors a local cycling team. They are excited about inviting the entire surrounding community to their Grand Opening on Saturday, April 21st. This, of course, will include beer and food. There will also be special deals on bikes and a group of professional riders who will be on hand showing off their expertise. More details regarding this special event will be released. I urge you to take the time to see just how exceedingly great AMain Cycling has taken off no doubt with full force and most assuredly at full speed. Perhaps the best part is, at the end of each ride, there is a pint waiting for you!
FOR MORE INFORMATION, VISIT 2070 E. 20TH STREET, CHICO OR AMAINCYCLING.COM. 14
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WRITTEN BY EMILY HUSO PHOTOS PROVIDED BY THE WILDFLOWER MUSIC FESTIVAL BY DOUG CHURCHILL PHOTOGRAPHY
FESTIVAL OF DREAMS The Wildflower Music Festival is back! With family-friendly entertainment and five bands set to perform, the annual event promises to be bigger and better than ever before. The fun starts at 11:30 a.m. on Saturday, April 21, at the end of Normal Avenue in the field that event volunteer Colleen Taylor calls the “field of dreams.” Surrounded by almond orchards and sponsored by local businesses like Sierra Nevada Beer, the festival has a special community feel. “It’s just so Chico!” Taylor says.
kids have a blast in the huge children’s area that includes jump houses, a petting zoo, face painting, lawn games, and so much more! At the end of the day, attendees should make sure to catch the final band performance, a much-anticipated headlining act by ALO. The nationally recognized rock band is known for their energetic live shows and upbeat California vibe. Hard to think of a more perfect note to end on for this classic Chico event.
Since its inception in 2013, the festival has become a smash hit with close to a thousand people in attendance last year. The event is run completely by volunteers and working parents to raise funds for Wildflower Open Classroom, a K–8 charter school that enrolls approximately 200 students. This year, all proceeds will go towards starting a music program at Wildflower. Specifically, funds will help pay for instruments and a full-time music teacher with the hopes of organizing a choir and rock ’n’ roll band.
If you are interested in donating, volunteering, or helping sponsor the event, it is not too late to become a part of this feel-good fundraiser.
“It’s always cool to see Chico coming out and supporting us,” says Taylor. “[The festival] has a huge community, family-friendly feel. It makes us just want to do it better every year.” Tickets can be purchased for $40 at the gate or on Eventbrite. Volunteers enjoy tickets at half price, and kids ten and under get in free!
Speaking of bands, the festival lineup for this year includes performances by Moonshiner Collective, Triple Tree, Kyle Williams, and Hot Flash. Event goers can enjoy the show while savoring tasty purchases from local food vendors. Parents can jam to the music, shop local merchandise, participate in the enormous silent auction, or enjoy Sierra Nevada beer in the beer garden while their 15
On Sunday, April 29, The Wildflower Century Ride climbs to Paradise via Honey Run Road. On Friday, June 1st, the Bike Rodeo and Family Fun Picnic takes place at the parking lot of Beyond Fitness on the Skyway. Community partners will provide bike giveaways, tune-ups, helmet fittings, bike safety tips and family games. Youth of all ages may bring their bikes and helmets to be checked and to participate in the obstacle course. Sack dinner will be provided by Adventist Health Feather River. Youth needing a new bike may apply. Contact Kelly at Youth for Change at 230.0211 ex. 204 or Krista at The Salvation Army at 872.1534 for more information.
Where Bikes, Chocolate, and Gold Nuggets Reign Supreme
PARADISE PEDALS: The mountains beckon cyclists to Paradise! The Town of Paradise is bisected by the paved Yellowstone Kelly Heritage Trail, a 5.2 mile one-way paved path starting just below Neal road and traveling uphill to the top of Pentz and Skyway. You can pedal a little further to Magalia for endless trail exploration. The easy dirt trail alongside Paradise Lake is a one-way 4.3 miles. Single tracks are abundant in the Paradise Pines Property Owners Association area adjacent to the BLM trails at the end of Ponderosa Road. Get ready to hit the trails after a visit to Paradise Bikes at 6282 Skyway, serving all needs for bicycle parts and sales. The store features Mountain Bikes, BMX, Comfort, and Road Bikes, including repair, tune-up, and assembly. With friendly, knowledgeable service and satisfaction guaranteed, staff at Paradise Bikes strive to make sure you're comfortable with your selections. CYCLING EVENTS: On Sunday, May 20th, Paradise Tour ‘de Chocolate Bike Ride offers three routes for the beginner to advanced riders. Cyclists gather at Paradise Community Park for an array of breakfast treats including all things chocolate! Beginner cyclists may ride the Yellowstone Kelly Heritage Trail, while the more adventurous may select the ride around Paradise Lake. The most adventurous riders may tackle the 25 mile Doon Grade “Beyond the Lake” ride. This special event of the Paradise Chocolate Fest benefits youth organizations on the Ridge. For more information, visit chocolatefest.us. 16
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FOR INFORMATION ON THESE EVENTS, AS WELL AS VISITOR INFORMATION, RESOURCES, AND A BUSINESS DIRECTORY, VISIT PARADISECHAMBER.COM, PARADISE RIDGE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE, 5550 SKYWAY, PARADISE, 877.9356.
ARTICLE PROVIDED BY PARADISE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE PHOTOS PROVIDED BY GLENN HARRINGTON, ARTIST BY DESIGN
PARADISE:
GOLD NUGGET DAYS: During the month of April, gold fever is in the air! Commemorating the discovery of the 54 pound gold nugget discovered in 1859, Paradise transforms itself for the beloved Gold Nugget Days celebration The events include: the Gold Nugget Queen competition, the Donkey Derby, the Gold Nugget Days parade, and numerous celebrations throughout the community. For sixty years, the Ridge has been a buzz of activity! Filling the main drag in Paradise with thousands in attendance, the community pulls on their boots, secures their bustles, and makes way for bean feeds, craft fairs, horse festivals, and so much more. If ever there was a hoedown, this is it! Nestled in the foothills, it's a perfect throwback to years gone by with loads of fun and excitement, and most importantly, celebrating our Ridge heritage. Mosey on over, take a load off, and let's have fun. April 26, 28, 29th. For more information go to goldnuggetmuseum.com.
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WRITTEN & PHOTO BY STEVE K.
six years from 1986 to 1991 where she helped nearly 7,000 individuals in California obtain legal citizenship. She continued working full time as a legal translator until 2012. Still set on helping others, Patricia volunteered for a program called METS, a non-profit medical transport program for Tehama County residents who didn’t have the ability to drive themselves to medical appointments. When she turned 70 in 2017, she realized she hadn’t visited an eye doctor in 8 years herself. Having driven countless individuals to and from doctor appointments over her five years with the METS program, she had found that the doctors at North Valley Eye Care had the best reputation around, so she scheduled an appointment. Patricia visited North Valley Eye Care this past August and was immediately impressed with how friendly everyone was. “They were absolutely wonderful. It was like walking into a room with a bunch of friends; there wasn’t a single grumpy person in there,” she said. During the visit, her doctor found that she had cataracts and would need surgery. He walked her through the process and assured her that there was nothing to be worried about. As a diabetic, sticking to her morning routine was of utmost importance to her health, so the surgery coordinator made sure to schedule her surgery first thing in the morning, so she could continue with her daily routine unchanged.
OF NORTH VALLEY EYE CARE
Patricia Vazquez
Born in Berkeley, California, Patricia Vazquez grew up with a natural proclivity for language. Raised by her grandmother to believe that each person’s purpose on Earth was to help others, she used her talent from an early age to help break down barriers in communication for those around her. By the time she graduated high school at 16, she was already fluent in a number of Latin American languages; as she puts it, “I just listened and happened to pick them up.” She decided to enter the beauty industry at the age of 18, where she knew she could openly converse with clients while helping them fall in love with themselves all over again. Patricia moved to Red Bluff with her husband and in-laws in 1971. Sticking to her cosmetology background, she ran a beauty shop in town, offering hair-color, styling, and makeup to clients. She met countless individuals through the business and as each one learned her story, word that she was fluent in many languages spread. She was soon approached to help translate for a number of difficult court cases in Tehama County and, due to her success with these cases, eventually began translating for courts in Butte, Tehama, and Shasta counties. She left her job in cosmetology and focused on her translating services, taking on a full time position as a medical and legal translator. Her work as a translator eventually led her to become one of only five individuals picked throughout the United States to translate for the amnesty and legalization program. Her work with the program spanned 18
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Patricia arrived for her first surgery with Dr. Barthelow on October 24th at 6:00 a.m. and was out by 7:15 a.m., just in time for breakfast with her daughter-in-law. “There was nothing to it,” Patricia said, “I was calm and relaxed with no fears or concerns; I just went in and had my surgery.” She had her second surgery on November 6th and found it to be just as easy. When asked about her overall experience with North Valley Eye Care, Patricia responded, “While being extremely professional, Dr. Barthelow makes you feel relaxed and like your health truly matters to him. What I sense from people is extremely important. You absolutely feel that they care. He is just beyond any other doctor I've met. I’ve always been scared of losing my vision. I'm a knitter, crocheter, and translator. Your vision is incredibly important in all three, and he made sure I kept mine. In fact, it’s better than it ever was before! When I walked in, these were the most professional, friendliest, and competent doctors and staff I've seen, so I knew I was in the right place. Everyone knows your name and treats you like they’ve known you forever. I would never go anywhere else; they’re the absolute best!” Cataract-free, Patricia can’t help but rave about her new hi-definition vision and the experience her friends have had since. “My vision is perfect; I’ve taken so many people over there since my surgery,” she said, “and it’s the only place I would recommend. I recently took a client of mine there who hadn’t been to an eye doctor in 30 years, and they found that she had both glaucoma and cataracts. She didn’t even realize she was losing her vision as the change was so gradual. They’re doing surgery for her next week and we’re both excited for the results. They treat everyone the same; she even mentions how she feels like family.” IF YOU’RE LIKE PATRICIA, AND THINK IT’S ABOUT TIME TO ASSESS YOUR VISION, CALL NORTH VALLEY EYE CARE TODAY AT 530.891.1900. AS SHE’LL BE THE FIRST TO TELL YOU, IT’LL BE THE BEST DECISION YOU’LL EVER MAKE.
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WRITTEN BY EMILY HUSO PHOTO PROVIDED BY THE GALLEY & BY MICHAEL MEJIA
Local Cooking Demonstration Date: April 21, 2018 Time: 12:00 p.m.–2:00 p.m. Location: The Galley 551 Country Drive Chico, CA 95928 Special thank you to Joey Haney at Chico Natural Foods for donating all the food for the cooking demonstration. This event would not be possible without the support of local businesses. Please RSVP by April 16th to Passages CRC at 530.898.5925. 20
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C AT E R I N G T O T H E
Needs of the Caregiver At noon on Saturday, April 21, stop by The Galley for a special cooking demonstration designed to help caregivers create nutritious meals for their loved ones. The event, a collaboration between The Galley and Passages Caregiver Resource Center, is free and open to the public. The demonstration will feature simple yet flavorful recipes made from ingredients donated by Chico Natural Foods and prepared by Volunteer Chef Cynthia Schmidt. “As I would with any demo here, I will be making a main dish, probably a side dish, and a dessert,” says Chef Cynthia. A nurse who specializes in chronic disease management and diabetes education, she brings her clinical expertise with her into the kitchen, sharing recipes that are healthy and nutrient-rich but still comforting and delicious. Last year, she led her first series of demos with a healthy spin, creating three different meals for heart-healthy, diabetesfriendly, and high-fiber diets. This year, the theme is all about supporting caregivers by giving them healthy and convenient meal ideas. Chef Cynthia will be sharing recipes that both cater to specific
nutritional needs and attempt to ease some of the burden on caregivers. “My thoughts were, we need things that are easy to chew, easy to prepare,” she says. Because of flavor de-sensitivity in some elderly people, she observes, the meals should have good flavor. “[They should be] easy to swallow, not too spicy.” To make life easier for caregivers, Chef Cynthia looks for recipes that are straightforward and that can be stored without losing their flavor. “In case your loved one is not ready to eat, you don’t want to create something that you have to serve immediately,” she says. “So [I look for] something that will keep on the stove or something that can be reheated easily.” In praise of The Galley’s cooking demonstrations, which typically have 50–60 people in attendance, Chef Cynthia says, “I think it’s a wonderful thing that they do. When I’ve done the demos before and I look out into the community, it’s a variety of people that come, and it's a social experience for people—a friendly environment, you know? It's a lovely local store, and it's got great staff and great products. I just think this is a great community meeting spot.” If you are a caregiver looking for recipes, meal-planning tips, or just a couple of care-free hours in a supportive community atmosphere, make sure you attend this fun, educational event!
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5th
annual
event Saturday, April 28th doors open at 9:00 am fashion show starts at 9:15 am
328 Broadway
Downtown Chico
please RSVP at 530.345.5754 or on our facebook page seating is limited.
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WRITTEN BY EMILY HUSO PHOTO BY FRANK REBELO
A FOUR POUND FLUFFY
Bundle of Love Guests at Twin Oaks Post Acute Rehab will enjoy meeting Mozzie, the pet-friendly facility’s main therapy dog. At four years old, the charcoal gray teacup poodle weighs in at a whopping four pounds. “He’s a teeny dog with an enormous heart,” says Mozzie’s owner, Asya Lesly, an occupational therapist at Twin Oaks. “It’s a joy to see how people light up with him.” With his friendly and loving temperament, Mozzie is a natural at his job. On a typical day, he may be found catching a ride in a four-wheel walker, working on safety and balance with guests in the courtyard, or spending time at the Twin Oaks gym, where he helps motivate patients with their therapy. “Sometimes we're able to get patients to come down here or to do more when they otherwise wouldn't have because they adore him so much,” Asya says. “A lot of times, the patients just don't feel good, and they don't want to come to therapy. I'll say, ‘Come down to the gym and see Mozzie.’ So that's the reason they'll come. He just has an amazing personality for this.” 24
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Since starting as a therapy dog at Twin Oaks three years ago, Mozzie has shown up for work nearly every day. “I get the day off sometimes, but Mozzie is a workaholic,” Asya laughs. “If I come to work without him, people are almost, like, angry at me.” A valued member of the family at Twin Oaks, Mozzie makes life brighter at Twin Oaks. Whether he is cuddling with patients or entertaining staff with his precious antics, he spreads love and smiles wherever he goes. “Other therapy dogs like people,” says Asya, “but for Mozzie, actually, each person is like his owner or something. He jumps in their lap so excited to see them.” As a pet-friendly facility, Twin Oaks encourages visitors to bring family pets in to see the residents. “Well-behaved dogs who’ve had their vaccines are welcome,” Asya says. “We've even had a cat visit before!” Because pets like Mozzie can play such a huge role in recovery, Twin Oaks has made it easy for residents to still see their beloved pets and to receive their comfort and care. Visitors may bring pets to Twin Oaks by simply providing proof of vaccination and checking them in. IF YOU OR A LOVED ONE ARE CONSIDERING EITHER SHORT- OR LONG-TERM CARE OPTIONS, CALL TWIN OAKS POST ACUTE REHAB AT 530.342.4885 TO SCHEDULE A TOUR OR LEARN MORE.
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YOUR HEALTH P O S T U R E : I T S TA RT S W I T H AWA R E N E S S
As with any problem, the first step to solving it is to recognize that it exists. Unless you are a biomechanics nerd, like myself, most are not aware of the physical dangers and discomforts that our suped-up tech lifestyle poses to our posture and thus our quality of life. Most of our daily routine lies under a veil of familiarity, shrouded in the mesmerizing blue light emitted from our cell phone and computer screens. Below all of this includes several opportunities to sit back and take stock on where we can make practical improvements to our posture. • Cell Phones while at your desk: If you lay your phone flat on the desktop, it is likely that you have to bend over your desk to read each correspondence. This repetitive motion will lead to neurological and muscle imbalances, affecting the muscles that hold your head upright—a painful condition if left untreated. Consider a desktop stand that props your phone up for easy viewing. Amazon has myriad models to choose from. • Squinting to see text on your computer screen: I see my officemates leaning in to read tiny text on their screens quite often. Did you know that most computers allow you to increase font size on the fly? Pressing “option and +” simultaneously will increase your font size on both Mac and PC. • Posture while typing: If you hunt and peck, there isn’t much I can do for you on this point. Start by learning to key 26
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without having to look at the keyboard. After you are comfortable typing without looking at the keyboard, stand at the entry to your office and give your desk, chair, and computer screen locations a thorough ergonomic evaluation. Do you type in the “laid back” position—similar to cruisin’ the strip on a Friday Night? Is your desk height keeping you from sitting up tall? If you are unsure of your assessment, ask your Chiropractor, Physical Therapist, or Certified Massage Therapist for their recommendations. They will be excited you asked! • Using your cellphone while you are a passenger: Whether a plane, train, or automobile, passengers tend to keep their cellphones in their laps. Take a look around at the next stoplight. It is very likely that those in the car next to you are bent 90 degrees at the neck, staring into their mobile device. Lifting your cell phone in front of your face very well may be one heck of a shoulder workout, however, it will save your postural muscles from overworking. Implementing these awareness based postural remedies will be a great start towards sitting and standing taller as you age. Next steps include yoga, pilates, and postural alignment classes with your local specialists. For now, things are looking up, eh?
HEALTH ADVICE
VIA
SCOTT AMICK, MA
Scott Amick is a Biomechanist. For more information, Scott can be reached at 209.603.4660.
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Exfoliate & Hydrate! We all wash our faces to get rid of makeup, dirt, and residue on our skin. The process of exfoliation is also essential to get stubborn dead skin cells to slough off and to keep pores clean. Even clean skin can have a rough texture, blackheads, or acne. The exfoliation process, either with a scrub, hydroxy acids, or an appliance like Clarisonic, all need to be applied gently! Over-exfoliation can abrade the skin, leaving miniscule scrapes and scratches which can let bacteria in and cause infection or breakouts. Pore size can be genetic, but you can diminish the appearance by keeping them squeaky clean! Removing the dead skin cells speeds up the cell renewal process, and that can help with fine lines and wrinkles that form as we age. The next step in your skin care plan is hydration. Skin needs moisture to stay plump, smooth, and firm. Dehydration can be caused by harsh cleansers, environmental pollutants, smoking, poor diet, or lack of sleep. A good moisturizer will contain hyaluronic acid, which can hold up to 1000 times its molecular weight in water. Proper hydration can result in less oil production and prevent breakouts. Hydration products (moisturizers) should be applied morning and before bed, and there are different formulas for oily, normal/ combination, or dry skin. Consistency is key in any skin care regimen, so get in the habit of exfoliating once or twice a week, and moisturize every day! DERM BAR MED-SPA 85 Declaration Dr. Suite 100 Chico, CA 95973 530.342.2672
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YOUR HEALTH T H E O T H E R K I N D O F AC U P U N C T U R E
Almost everyone knows about acupuncture, but few know there is more than one type. The most popular one in America is what I refer to as meridian acupuncture. Some of us have even seen the charts that show a bunch of lines, the meridians, running all over the body. And there are some 360 classically described acupuncture points that have precise locations on everyone. The theory is that treating one part of the body can have an effect on another part of the body some distance away. I have had bewildered patients tell me of visits to other acupuncturists for shoulder pain, and the acupuncturist put the needles on their leg! This is meridian style. But there is another lesser known style of acupuncture. One that specializes in treating pain; Ashi acupuncture. Ashi (pronounced ah sure) literally means "ah, that's it!" Which describes the feeling you get when someone presses on a tight spot in a muscle (a "knot"). Most of us are familiar with that feeling when someone rubs our shoulders and finds the spot! It can be a pleasure, a pleasure/pain, or, just a pain! But you know immediately that it is a trouble spot. That trouble spot is called an Ashi point, and they are the most common cause of pain anywhere in the body. Western medicine has even developed their own type of acupuncture that relies on treating these Ashi points; it's called trigger point injection.
Lack of blood circulation is a major cause of pain. For treating pain, the ancient books on acupuncture said the proper way was to feel along the muscles to find, and then directly treat the source, the ashi points. Again this is very similar to modern trigger point work and the modern theory and ancient theory is the same: blood circulation is impaired at the site of the muscle knot. When that area is treated, the body responds to the micro-injury by sending more blood to heal the area, exactly what is needed. Modern research on acupuncture and trigger point injection even uses the term "wash out effect" to describe how pain producing chemicals are washed out at the site of acupuncture. Acupuncture is not a one-size-fits-all treatment. You need different styles and methods and specialists for different problems just like in western medicine. Meridian acupuncture focuses more on internal problems like insomnia, depression, infertility, pms, or indigestion. But when you’re suffering most any kind of pain, from headaches to heel pain, go see an Ashi acupuncturist.
HEALTH ADVICE
VIA
ERIC SCHANKE
Eric Schanke has been in practice for over 20 years, the last 12 in Oroville. He is an Ashi acupuncture specialist. For more information, visit orovilleacupuncture.com or call 530.403.6386.
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BEAUTY Q&A S I M P LY J U S T P L A I N F U N
You’ve been asking and Designers are listening. Color is back! But this season’s color mixes well with our staples, grey and black. This will be the year for color all the way through Fall. Pink is making a massive comeback, and we’re here for her, already hitting the market in multiple shades from pastel to dark pink. The color of the year is Ultra Violet. That is why you are seeing more purple and pink hues branching through that spectrum. Are you ready for this season’s rule on denim? There are no rules! Yes, I said it, pure freedom to wear any denim style. Designers are giving us tons of options and anything goes for the leg: skinny, wide, straight, long, ankle, crop, and don’t forget new favorites that tick the fashion and function box: boyfriend and girlfriend style. Each style is on trend and are practical too!
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shorter. Don’t get me wrong, the tunic is still going strong, but now there’s a new option in town. This new addition plus the fit of the straight leg pant will help create a complementary balance. Pant hem lines have received quite a bit of attention this season as well. One big consistent trend is the fray—which is the fraying of the hemline of your pant leg and trust me, it adds a fun and subtle detail to your jeans. Lace detail and trims along the hems are also another consistent design that is still popping up this spring. Even pearls have been showing up placed on pant hems or all over the pant leg and they are getting a lot of attention—so very chic! Last but definitely not least, you’ll see feminine trends like floral along with the lace this spring.
The straight leg ankle pant is going to be an especially big hit because it has so much versatility and doesn’t hug the knee, keeping the leg line nice and clean. The ankle pant has never been more important! It’s bigger than ever this season and that’s a big bonus for tall and short women alike. For taller women, the ankle is no longer ‘too short’ but just right! And for our shorter gals, you finally have the perfect length pant. This is a moment to rejoice and do our happy dance!
The best news is that all the trends I’ve shared with you are not going away any time soon! They are not one-and-done kind of trends. Trends illustrated here will translate well into the coming seasons. We never focus on fading fades, so stick with us ladies! We got you.
Shirts are getting some adjustment in length this season too. They’re becoming
Visit 5th Street Clothing Co. at 328 Broadway Street in Downtown, Chico or call 530.345.5754.
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Updated Choices For The Outdated People always ask what they can do with their worn and outdated cabinets. You’ll be amazed at how easy it is to update your kitchen without tearing out your old cabinets or completely remodeling. By repainting or refinishing your cabinets and installing new hardware, you can achieve a whole new look at a fraction of the cost of new cabinets. Let’s take a look at a few of the options available to you.
REFINISHING
Refinishing cabinets that only have a few worn spots can be as easy as touching up the stain and spraying a few coats of lacquer. If your cabinets are in bad shape they will have to be completely stripped of old finish. At that point you can choose from hundreds of stain colors and finish options. Either method is a great way to bring your cabinets back to like new condition. 32
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SHADE LACQUER
Shade Lacquer is a great way to change the color of your stained and lacquered cabinets. With this technique we add a color of your choice to clear lacquer and slowly build the color with successive coats. This is a great way to change the look of your cabinets without breaking the bank.
PAINTED CABINETS
Painting old cabinets is the easiest way to make a major change to the look of your cabinets. With unlimited paint color options, the sky's the limit on what you can achieve.
but is much smoother and more durable than paint or other finishes. Both versions have excellent moisture resistance and are perfect for kitchen and bathroom cabinet applications.
GLAZE WORK
Glaze is a secondary color added over your stained or painted cabinets to add character and depth. It fills in the nooks and crannies and highlights the dimensions of your cabinets. With endless techniques, and color options you are sure to get a custom, one of a kind finish.
CONVERSION VARNISH
Conversion Varnish is a two-part catalyzed finish. It comes in both clear and pigmented versions. The clear version is a great sealer and top coat for stained or natural wood. The pigmented version looks just like paint
HOME ADVICE
VIA
AARON DUTRA
Aaron is the owner Upscale Painting. For more information, visit paintingchico.com or call 530.965.5920.
Steve Catterall In Memory Of
While it was never actually months that passed between visits, Steve was like the uncle that you saw but every so often, and when you did, it was like you never missed a beat. Stopping by Olde Gold or just running into him was a treat. I will never forget how kind he was when I was just getting my feet wet in advertising, and how he always had a genuine interest in how my family was. He never hurried away from a conversation and made me feel important, and I hope he knew how much that will always meant to me. Ever welcoming, Steve was a good man, and a beacon that Downtown Chico will forever miss. –Jason Corona
I met Steve when I bought my alterations shop, Chico Quality Alterations, in the Garden Walk Mall. He was always positive and had a smile on his face. We shared a goodnight greeting each night when we left work, “Goodnight, sleep tight, don’t let the bedbugs bite.” “Ouch!” he would say. I’ll always have wonderful memories of Steve and he will be greatly missed. –Karin Martin
I knew Steve years before I opened Formal Education in Downtown Chico, but it wasn’t until I opened the store that our paths crossed more regularly. I would usually take my
lunch break at the same time that he was walking back from his, and we would share a conversation through my driver-side window. He was always genuinely interested in not only my day but the happenings in the store and making sure that I was properly balancing life and work. “Life is short; you have to enjoy it!” he would often say. There are few people I have met in my life who were as genuine and caring as Steve was, and the memories he left behind with so many in Chico are a testament to that. He will truly be missed, but always remembered with a smile. –Aveed Khaki
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There’s something about
Sherry LandiS “Sherry is the Notreal only is she “Sherry Landis is by best. far the best estate agentthorough in Chico. Sheand is professional, positive, hasisincredible follow through. competent, butand she fun to work with! “She helped us navigate our way through the sale of two homes and the purchase of -Margaret McNulty, another—all at the same time! She never missed a beat. She madeChico sure we understood the process, and stayed in constant contact with us. Even after all three homes closed, she continued to call, email, and text just to make sure everything was going as planned. We could not have done it without her.” — Doug anD CoLEttE RobERtS
(530) 514-4855 | landis4sale25@gmail.com landis4sale@aol.com | www.SherryLandis.com
Perfect Floor plan right here, right now!!!!! Split living with 1 bedroom/bath on opposite side of the house perfect for???? Large rooms, vaulted ceilings and separate living and family rooms areas with both wood stove and fireplace. Master suite is - well, just that!!! Oversized Bedroom with large walk in closet and Jacuzzi tub and separate shower!!! Skylights make this well lit, well cared for home, apparent every where you look. Kitchen has lots of custom cabinetry and eating bar, garden window, refrigerator is included! Tastefully painted with modern colors - Wonderful and large indoor laundry with sink, covered patio and fruit trees. Lots of brick here so when the big bad woof huffs and he puffs.. Bed: 4.0 Bath: 3.0 SqFt: 2,901 Price: $520,000
A feeling of home when you enter this door - relaxing in an open flowing floor plan, yet little spaces to tuck away should you need to have some quiet time away from the rest of the gang!! The master suite is separate from the rest of this well laid out home and boasts a wonderful master bath/dressing area! Well appointed Thisnewer was the home steel and only one owner! have many SoAmuch terrific Michael Galli floor plan remodeled from$639,000 head to with highmodel end stainless appliances, graniteThere and tile andbeen high ceilings! to see! Call today! Bed: 3.0 updated Bath: 3.0and SqFt: 2,643 Price:
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!
A lot of house for the money with some great features!!! Several living and dining areas with remodeled and added on areas of the home approximately 9 years ago! Places to park all the toys with double gates on both sides of the home for this and that, plus a garage. Newer water heater, nice fireplace and kitchen open to the living room. Bed: 3.0 Bath: 3.0 SqFt: 2,453 Price: $299,900
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, shows truly like a model home. Open floor plan with so many upgrades! Bed: 4.0 Bath: 3.0 SqFt: 3,675 Price: $665,000
Its that “once in a life time” opportunity!!!! That’s right, check it out, nearly 1/2 acre of unimproved property with great soil, big trees and just ready and begging for a nice home to be built on !!! ONLY IF you enjoy things like: listening to birds sing & the sound of water. Make this dream a reality and claim it as yours today!!! Hurry, hurry, hurry! Acreage: .37 Price: $175,000
My homes are selling fast! Call if I can help by listing your home today!
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Broker Lic #01912741
“Through circumstances we’ve needed to buy and sell homes a couple of times this year and would not consider using anybody else but Effie. She’s knowledgeable, friendly, and gets the job done.” -Jim Peplow, Chico
Expect to be impressed. Superbly appointed in an exclusive community of fine estates, this elegant home was built to exact specifications with almost no regards for cost. As you approach the house, you will fall in love with the peaceful ambiance of the beautiful koi pond and its waterfalls. The massive, double door entry will welcome you to a stunning residence offering exceptional detailing throughout. This beautiful home features all the amenities one could want, including radiant, heated marble floors, imported Brazilian mahogany pillars, dramatic ceilings, formal room,neighborhood formal dining room, a family by room with fireplace, Intoxicating view! Where the eagles soar, this captivating residence Tucked away in living a upscale & sheltered majestic kitchen with granite counters, doublehome. convection oven, trash compactor, and sits shielded behind iron gates. trees, here you will find your dream This beautiful home home is is truly magnifiOak cent with ThisThishome stunning! floors, tall eating bar. The master suite offers dual vanities, his is&loaded her closet, jetted tub, main house offers high ceilings, gleaming bamboo flaooring, 3 bedrooms, bath walls and of glass, isThe designed for indoor/outdoor entertaining and with towering 3.5 ceilings, gleaming wood fl oors, a lavish living 9-foot ceilings and a kitchen that offers a walk-in shower. the as fully-equipped home the wine upgrades. You will loveYou the generously proportioned rooms, formal & informal dining, gourmet kitchen, granite counters, aand darling loft, perfect towill belove used an office or justtheater, a the reading spot. room, The yard is beautiful granite counters, pendant lighting, raised cellar, and the dumbwaiter. A whole house fan, central vacuum, 2 A/C units, gorgeous wood floors, formal and dining rooms,dining the cozy designer Above hood, 3the fireplaces, 6” interior walls, 2HVAC, 3 car garage and and offers plenty ofthe space forliving gardening, outdoor and entertaining. 2 cherry cabinetry, island with w/ five 2 water heaters, intercom and security system will keep thismaster home perfectly family room with it’swill fireplace, guest quarter, expansive suit,perfect to more all onan almost 2 acrepaneled parcel. The ambiance is peaceful car garage, you fi nd a 533 square foot carriage studio be used as in-law cook top andpatio so much more!. suited to you with at allcan times. The backyard is centered around entertaining, with a views of sunsets & city lights.burner large kitchen lighting, breakfast nook over looking a beautiful You willgas breakfast on the watching unit. The pool, carriage is selfand contained with its own kitchenette, full bath, heat/air and its own gorgeous waterfalls, covered Bath: 5.0 private yard, 3 car garage, gated R.V.gazebo. parking all on almost one ace the mountain ranges & Sutter-Buttes. At night simply Bed: relax 4.0 & enjoy your parking space. Bed: 3.0 Bath: 3.5 SqFt: 2,005 Price: $399,000 SqFt: 3,132 Price: $769,000 ofseparate total privacy. unobstructed view of the star-speckled sky. 4.0 Bath:3.0 Price: $749,900 Bed: 4.0 Bed: Bath: 3.0 SqFt: SqFt: 2,5014,367 Price: $487,500 Bed: 4.0 Bath: 3.0 SqFt: 2,389 Acreage: ~2.0
PENDING The lake location, is only seconds from this beautiful home! This Tucked away consist Piratesof will4squeal scurry forThis this hidden treasure! The delightful, Prime next away to CSUC and downtown!! complex units,&&each home offfrom ers this anlarge open in neighborhood, a friendly neighborhood, this immaculate home offers an open Golf porch course,oflake walking trails areimmaculate just a stone throw away inTucked a quiet this well maintained home offers a darling front this gorgeous home provides relaxation and a numerous great unit off ers spacious living rooms, large dining areas and lots and lots of storage areas. All fl oor plan, high ceilings, floor plan, highperfect ceilings,for large living days room,to ansitopen kitchen with an island, a stunning home. Tuckedyour away in a cul-de-sac in a prestigious gated porch, summer upon and relax. Inside place to get to know neighbors. With soaring 10 andneighborhood, 12 foot havegas their indoor laundry with side sidemany washer and dryer, garbage disposal, windows for ample sunlight andand fresh fiunits ve burner cookown a double ovens. Seller hasby made upgrades this home ers anfeatures open floor plan, proportioned rooms you’ll find an open fltop oor and plan, high ceilings, tile counters, and wood ceilings, thisoff home walls ofgenerously glass windows providing ample dishwasher, refrigerator and microwave oven. Each unit also has its own central heat and to this darling home which includes all new appliances in the kitchen, new abundance of windows for natural lights. As you step into the you will interior/exterior paint.flooring, Itshouse oversized flooring throughout. Tile floors in the kitchen and bathrooms, fireplace natural lighting, crown molding throughout, bamboo a cozy shower head, bathroom sink, newer carpet and some windows. fall income in lovewith with the spacious living room and and its cozy fireplace, with its sunny air, heater, water meter and PG&E meter. Thisnew is very attractive producing formal living dining room isdoors, perfect infaucets, thewater living room, walk-in closet, mater bath with dual sink, separate fireplace mantel, built-in bookshelves, cabinets with glass The master bedroom isvacancy located infactor. the firstUnits floorfree and two other bedroom are nook and3the formalfor dining room. In addition, this home also offers property zero are so renting for $1,760/mo. entertaining families friends. shower andwith a tub. The yard is maintenance you can enjoy life abreakfast darling kitchen, bedrooms and a loft, indoor laundry, aand beautiful on the second fl oor. The yard is beautifully landscaped and off ers a lush lawn, a family room that can be easily turned into an offi ce or a 4th bedroom. by spending more time by the lake canoeing, fishing, or just enjoying patio with fountain and Zen-inspired landscaping plus 2 car Bed: 4.0garage. Bath: The 3.0 a bubbling spa, water fountain, 2 large sheds and an oversize side yard. updated kitchen and bathrooms have slab granite counter tops and custom walking the paths around the area. Bed: 16.0 Bath: 8.0 SqFt: 6,192 Price: $1,195,000 SqFt: 2,029 Price: $399,900 Bed: 3.0 Bath: 2.0 SqFt: 1,516 Price: $279,900 tiled flooring. Bed: 3.0 Bath: 2.0 SqFt: 1,899 Price: $399,000 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 Intoxicating views of Mt. Shasta and Mt. Lassen!! This well maintained Step through theAC entry home and experience the history of this antique Chico charmer. Nested in the coveted Avenues, first parcel has 1.6 withofathis delightful counter tops, laminate flooring, home sits on 10 acres of total privacy. Featuring a large living room You will marvel at this home’s spaciousness, the fl owing fl oorplan, gleaming wood floors, lion- counters This home offremodeled ers a spacious living room, thisSqhome has been enjoyed Chico generations. From its with cozyakitchen with granite to its newer dualkitchen pane windows, 600 ft. building structure that by numerous crown molding, security system, free standing wood stove, a newly with sized den, 3 balconies, and large game room. The home features a dream kitchen with 2 security new gas water heater andheat stainless steel appliances, this homecounter exemplifi es full the quality of fine homes. Youappliances, willcentral love the fireplace, large heat was built insystem, 1979 and has been central and air, dual pane granite tops, custom cabinetry andbedrooms, newer this stoves, 2asovens, potforand pan Corian counters and The list of amenities generously proportioned rooms and the peaceful ambiance of an thisisland. home. Thealso lavish living tile room and the dining room of this home operating a nursery the last drawers, windows, upgraded appliances home provides and laminate ooring, an and overasized bonus and air,formal 2 flcar garage large yard with also includes 3 heating & cooling units, central 2 fialso replaces a security The indoor 25have years. It isnumerous partially fenced, itand is entertained and fixtures. Thisvac, home a and room with asystem. wood stove, water 2 balconies, held parties many friends andhas families. Guest must of marveled at plenty rich laundry, wood floors, spacious family of room forthe asofteners, pool. on city services and issuite near park large basement foroff your downstairs master off erspool. an exercise room andperfect jetted tub. The master bedroom, along a private domestic well plus well, central heating and air, room and sparking in ground The yard is beautiful and ers a2nd dinning patio with pergola andaashared newly Ag. installed drought friendly Bed: 3.0 Bath: 2.0 and shopping. Therooms, 2nd is collection andlocated storage! barn/shop, car carport with Jack & Jill and for theyou 5thwine bedroom, all are onown. the 2nd floor. This4 home also and much more. landscaping. This is a parcel home to create memories of your onoff .29 AC is adjacent theso much more! Bed:5.0 2.0 Bath: Bath:6.5 2.0SqFt: 6,236 Price: $799,000Bed: 4.0 Bath: 3.0 SqFt: SqFt:1,296 2,240 Price: Price:$280,000 $399,900 ers anand in-ground poolto and Bed: Bed: 3.0 Bath: 2.0 SqFt: 2,503 Price: $399,900 other parcel. Price: $400,000 SqFt: 2,085 Price: $239,000 40
U P G R A D E D L I V I N G . C O M APR I L 201 6
NE W AGAIN KITCHEN RE MOD E LIN G P RE S E N TS H OU S E CA L L :
B I K I N G T H E I R WAY I N T O T H E K I T C H E N O F T H E I R D R E A M S
THE CLIENT Our April issue’s theme is “all about bikes.” So, what a treat it was when Andy and Loretta opened their front door to reveal a pair of beautiful road bikes hanging on the inside wall of the entryway. This couple is admittedly all about bikes, right down to the bike chain bottle opener on display and the “Born to Ride” sign hanging above the kitchen sink. Andy has been in Chico since 1995; living in this house for 15 years. Loretta is a Willows native and has lived in this area her entire life. Having lived in the home together for five years, they began discussing just how outdated the oak and tile kitchen had become. The purchase of a new refrigerator proved the trigger for an entire remodel. Interesting enough, it was a bike ride that got them to notice New Again Kitchen Remodeling for the first time. On a ride to Durham, they first saw all the 36
U P G R A D E D L I V I N G M AG A Z I N E A P R I L 2 0 1 8
THE CALL stacked units of granite and wondered what that was all about. Then they saw the sign, though their bike apparel, sweat, and dirt from the ride did, at the time, prevent them from just pulling up. Eventually, Andy and Loretta visited the store, introduced themselves to Ric, and begun what proved to be a year long conversation about the remodel of their kitchen. Loretta shared that “Ric was so very patient” during that long stretch of time. The couple grew increasingly weary of the tile countertops which were so difficult to keep clean and the fact that, in Loretta’s words, the kitchen lacked functionality in design. This turned the year long conversation into a formal request for Ric to remodel their kitchen.
Through the numerous conversations, Ric was sure that the lack of function in the kitchen’s original design was the major problem and, during his visits, he noticed that the size of the island was the main culprit. Without much workspace or room to speak of, the island was of little use in the kitchen. Ric suggested they replace it with a larger island to help alleviate the space issue. To further the functionality of the kitchen, Ric recommended adding taller cabinets with pull out shelves as well. The new refrigerator the couple purchased prior to the renovation not only triggered the renovation itself, but also the purchase of brand new appliances to match. Rather than simply make a few modifications, Andy and Loretta decided it would be better to completely remove any semblance of the outdated and dysfunctional kitchen they
THE CURE From demo to completion, the project took just six days, which is even more impressive considering the entire kitchen was gutted. New Birch Shaker cabinets were installed, including the longer base for the new island. The cabinets wear a beautiful butternut stain that perfectly engages the Calcutta quartz countertops and new Dawn stainless steel sink. The countertop on the island included an overhang to accommodate additional seating. Andy and Loretta love the color of the cabinets and the rich ambience they add. The amount of extra space they received from the new cabinet design has also made a remarkable difference.
CONNECT
Next came the installation of the new backsplash. Comprised of 4 x 12 Grace Sabbia subway tile, with an elegant stacked grey Tessuto tile liner, the backsplash is the perfect finishing touch to their kitchen. They appreciated the fact that Victor Cabrera, New Again’s resident tile contractor, suggested that they wrap the entire window for a more dramatic effect. The length of the subway tile actually makes the kitchen appear larger. The cumbersome boxed fluorescent lights were removed and replaced by recessed can lighting. With the new lighting, backsplash and appliances in place, the kitchen remodel was exactly what Andy and Loretta dreamed of. They pointed out that, in the afternoon sun, a beautiful hue of blue illuminates the backsplash and further brings out its beauty. They also love the drop-down knife holder that almost magically appears from under one of the cabinets.
The new design is not only completely functional, but the beauty and versatility it adds has made both its everyday use and entertaining so much better for this happy couple. They added flooring after the initial remodel and were so appreciative that Ric was so helpful by utilizing his great eye to make sure the flooring was the right color. Andy and Loretta are thankful that they took that bike ride to Durham and discovered the remedy for their outdated kitchen. Perhaps this might be the impetus for you to also get in your car (or on your bike) and make your way to see Ric at New Again Kitchen Remodeling. The kitchen of your dreams is likely only a short ride away.
WRITTEN BY KEVIN DOLAN PHOTOS BY EMILY TEAGUE
once had, and make it all look brand new. With relief and excitement, the couple turned the job over to Ric and his crew.
Visit New Again Kitchen Remodeling at 2502 Park Avenue, Chico or call 530.899.2888.
NEW AGAIN KITCHEN REMODELING | 2502 PARK AVE, CHICO, CA 95928 | 530.899.2888
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Personalize Your
Rental Space! Here are few hints and suggestions to freshen up a rental home or apartment without making permanent changes:
ADD COLOR
Pick a favorite fabric or pillow, cushion, or drapery panel from your collection or merely start from scratch. Once you determine a dominant color, play with it throughout the room. Some examples range from matting around a picture, throw blankets, floral arrangements to area rugs and accessories. When adding color keep in mind how much each dose should properly be used. A good guide is the 60-30-10 formula. The predominant color should cover approximately 60 percent of the room, usually the existing painted walls. It might also include flooring or a large piece of furniture. A secondary color should cover 30 percent. This color is found on window treatments, accent upholstery pieces, and rugs. Your accent color becomes the strongest color of the 3 and accounts for the remaining 10 percent. This will be displayed through artwork, throw pillows, and accessories.
WINDOW TREATMENTS
Most rentals come with window coverings that are drab and boring. To combat this, purchase rods and panels that can be easily removed and taken with you to your next place. Raising the rods to the ceiling and bringing the drapes to the floor makes the room look bigger. The width of the panels does not matter because they will hang on the side of the windows and frame it out.
SPARKLE LIGHTING
Light and reflective surfaces give the impression of extra square footage. To do this, incorporate mirrors, metal and glass as accessories to reflect more light. Also introduce table and floor lamps. Select pieces that have sparkle, shine or crystal accents. Add some stick-on LED lights under cabinets or possibly inside a china hutch to accent accessories.
KITCHEN SUBTLETIES
Add a splash of red. Red stimulates the appetite, improves one's sense of smell, and sensitizes the taste buds. You can do this with small appliances like toasters and coffee makers. Show off your dishes, glasses, and serving pieces with open shelves. Create a message center using a chalkboard or bulletin board where you can add cute slogans. Add a small shelving unit or rolling cart that can be used as a coffee cart or bar.
DÉCOR
Instead of storing old objects that mean a lot to you, dress a wall with them. Use interesting groupings, such as round plates over a square sofa or thin vertical objects for a hallway, or maybe a black and white family wall.
DESIGN ADVICE
VIA
DEVERIE JARRETT
Deverie is a local Chico resident. She attended design school in Sacramento where she acquired her degree in interior design. She specializes in commercial and residential interior design. For more information, visit houzz.com/pro/deveriejarrettdesign/ deveriejarrettdesign or call 530.828.3539. 39
A Textbook Makeover WHAT YOU’LL NEED: • • • • • • • •
Hardback Books (The thicker the better) Cacti Cactus Soil Garden Moss Parchment Paper Razor Blade Pencil Glue
FOR MORE DIY INSPIRED FUN, VISIT THE ARC STORE AT 2020 PARK AVE IN CHICO.
WRITTEN BY NERISSA QUINN PHOTO BY MICHAEL MEJIA
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DIRECTIONS: Open your book and flip to the second or third page. On the right hand side of the page draw an outline of a rectangular shape that your cacti will eventually fill. Once your desired shape is created, use the razor blade to carefully cut out the pages. Continue cutting until you’ve created a space about 2 inches deep. Next, line the space with parchment paper and glue it down to the inside of the book then let dry. Once dry, pot your cacti and decorate with moss. Enjoy!
What happens to your books after you read them? In my house, we usually give them to a friend or they sit on our shelves for years. Instead of having them blend into your wall decor, why not repurpose them into something you can enjoy in a different way? For this months DIY, I visited the vast book collection at the Arc Store in Chico to help me create this adorable project.
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INGREDIENTS: • 12 oz. Sea Scallops • 8 oz. Cooked Arborio Risotto • 2 oz. Grated Parmesan • 2 oz. White Wine • 2 oz. Lemon Juice • 1 tbsp. Butter • 1 oz. Heavy Cream • 6 Small Blood Oranges • 8 Strands Spanish Saffron • 3 tsp. Salt, 2 tsp. White Pepper, ½ tsp. Black Pepper, 1 tsp. Dry Oregano, ½ tsp. Cayenne Pepper • 1 tsp. Flour • 1 tsp. Olive Oil • 1 Layer Purple Cabbage & Chopped
DIRECTIONS: Squeeze blood oranges into container. Flour tops and bottoms of scallops, add pinch of black pepper. Line medium sized saute’ pan with oil, high heat, wait for lines to form in the oil, scallops ready to sear. Sear both sides for 20 seconds. In a small saute’ pan, melt butter for orange citrus glaze. Add salt and white pepper to taste, add juice from oranges and reduce for about 3 minutes. Add oregano and cayenne pepper, a touch of lemon juice and white wine. Reduce for another 2–3 minutes for a perfect glaze. In a 325 degree oven, insert seared scallops for 3 minutes. Fill a medium sized saute’ pan with 4 oz. of water and saffron and simmer for 3 minutes or until water becomes yellow. Add in cooked al dente’ risotto, white pepper, salt, white wine, and heavy cream. Reduce the risotto into a creamy consistency, neither runny or dry. Turn heat off, add parmesan and parsley to the risotto. Plate with a layer of purple cabbage to create a small nest for the risotto and enjoy!
Parsley (For Garnish) RECIPE COURTESY OF SICILIAN CAFE LOCATED AT 1020 MAIN STREET IN CHICO 530.345.2233.
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PHOTO BY MICHAEL MEJIA
Blood Orange Scallops
PHOTO BY FRANK REBELO
TAP S Pesto Pasta INGREDIENTS: • 1 Tbsp Olive Oil • 6 Oz Sliced Chicken Breast • ½ Cup, Cherry Tomatoes Cut in Half • 1 Tsp Garlic • ¼ Cup White Wine • 1 Tsp Heavy Whipping Cream • 3 Tbsp Pesto Sauce • 8 oz Cooked Capellini Pasta (or Angel Hair) • ¼ Cup Grated Parmesan Cheese • Salt & Pepper to Taste
garlic and saute but don’t brown the garlic in the process Add wine and cook until wine reduces to half the amount, add the cream and the pesto sauce, salt and pepper to taste. Mix well then toss in the cooked Capellini pasta. Garnish with grated parmesan cheese and basil, serve with garlic cheese bread.
QUICK PESTO: • 2 Cups Packed Pesto Leaves • 2 Cloves Garlic • ¼ Cup Pine Nuts • A Pinch of Salt & Pepper to Taste • ½ Cup of Parmesan Cheese Add ingredients together in a food processor. Pulse blend, then add ½ cup of olive oil slowly while blending. Mix in Parmesan cheese.
DIRECTIONS: In a Teflon pan heat the olive oil then add the sliced chicken breast to cook both sides, add cherry tomatoes,
RECIPE COURTESY OF TAPS BAR & GRILL. FOR MORE INFORMATION, VISIT 407 WALNUT STREET UNIT A IN CHICO OR CALL 530.636.4341.
Rooted in Chico for 20 years. ESTABLISHED IN 1998
@ C Ao live ra n c h
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WRITTEN BY ALYSSA WORLEY PHOTOS PROVIDED BY CALIFORNIA NUT FESTIVAL
D E L I G H T YO U R S E N S E S AT T H E
California Nut Festival Butte County is nuts about nuts. So it’s only appropriate that there would be an entire day dedicated to celebrating them. What started in 2006 as a sequence of farming education and information, has blossomed into a day long festival praising all things nuts.
effort is extended throughout the year to ensure young kids and students have a greater understanding of our counties rich history in farming. Attending this event is your chance to give back to that endeavor, all while having an unforgettable time among friends.
Kathy Chance has been involved since the very beginning and helps organize many of the events key attractions. Modeled after a community festival based in Sonoma, Kathy told us their group went for 20 years and had some truly beautiful days there. As a result, “A group of us from the farming community took a year and revamped this original idea. In 2010, we came up with the one day festival that is the current format.” Our California Nut Festival brings that same sunshine effect year after year. This year's festival is Saturday, April 21st from 11:00 am to 4:00 pm.
In fact, this entire event was created to delight the senses. Kathy shares, “You’re experiencing the beauty of the ranch itself. Enjoy this unique opportunity to talk to the people who devote their lives to creating what you’re enjoying.” No need to worry about beating traffic either as shuttles will be going from downtown to the event throughout the day. If you are a first time attendee of this event, expect to witness a variety of enticing sounds and scenes including music, art, and culinary delight. Stroll the grounds and visit the numerous booths where you will enjoy the crunch of local almonds, pistachios, walnuts, chestnuts and pecans while washing them down from countless choices of craft beer, wine, almond milk and coffee from the surrounding area. The back barn will be filled with beautiful local art and ongoing throughout the day on two stages you will hear an eclectic mix of music.
The mission of this event encompasses three goals; for people to better understand where their food comes from, to gain “the big picture” of what’s happening in the orchards that surrounds us, and to raise money for the Patrick Ranch Museum. To-date $140,000.00 dollars was raised for the Museum! A huge 44
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One of the favorite acts of the day is the famous Nutty Chef Competition. This year, three local chefs from your favorite restaurants will draw their spatulas and compete for the title of Nuttiest Chef. With only 30 minutes, and a pre-selected pantry of supplies to create a dish; it’s anyone’s guess what they will come up with! Chef Nathan Johnson of Tin Roof Bakery & Café will kick off the event at noon, then Chef Jorge Vasquez of OHBees Hive Beestro will whip things up, followed by Chef Juan Z. Ramirez of Two Twenty Restaurant. Toss back a few nuts while the judges discuss and watch as the 2018 “Nutty Chef” winner is announced! Join us for the 12th Annual California Nut Festival on April 21, 2018. We cannot wait for you to experience all that dwells at the end of this old dirt road! The California Nut Festival at the enticing Patrick Ranch grounds is “so close to town yet you’ll feel like your decades ago and miles away.”
GO TO CALIFORNIANUTFESTIVAL.COM FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION REGARDING EVENTS AND SPONSORS.
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INGREDIENT OF THE MONTH:
KALE Kale is a staple at the local farmers market year round, but is especially abundant and less bitter tasting during the cool weather seasons of winter and spring. Kale is one of the healthiest green vegetables you can add to your shopping list and there are tons of tasty recipes that feature this leafy green. You can find kale in a range of shapes and colors, from curly to flat leaves, and in hues of dark green or purple. Not only are bundles of fresh kale readily available from dozens of vendors at the local farmers markets, but it is also easy to grow in your own garden at home. For avid gardeners, there are many varieties of kale you can start from seed or seedlings you can buy from vendors like GRUB Grown at the farmers market. If you are interested in eating more sustainably, shop for your weekly produce at the farmers markets. The markets are the best source for fresh, locally produced varieties! 46
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What makes kale, as opposed to other leafy greens, so special? Harvard.edu states that kale belongs to the Brassica oleracea family, which includes broccoli, cauliflower, Brussels sprouts, cabbage, bok choy and collard greens, to name a few. Kale is the one of the richest of all the greens in antioxidants, vitamins and minerals. Not only does this hardy green fight against different cancers, heart disease and inflammation, but also protects healthy cells from disease. These factors make kale a wonderful part of a healthy nutrition regimen. Additionally, kale contains Vitamin C, Vitamin A, Vitamin K, fiber, folate, is higher in calcium than milk, and ALA, an omega 3 fatty acid that improves brain and heart functions. Curly and lacinato kales are some of the more common varieties. Other types include red Russian kale, Siberian, redbor, and Chinese, which all have distinct textures, colors, and subtle flavors. Cold temperatures cause starches in the plant to break down into sugars, which results in sweeter, less bitter flavors. There are dozens of ways to consume kale, including adding a handful of leaves to smoothies or chopped leaves into stir-fry dishes. For a simple, quick dish, sauté kale with garlic and onions. You can even replace basil with kale in your favorite pesto recipe. One of
my all-time favorite recipes is quinoa kale salad. Friends and family of mine find this salad both delicious and satisfying. Simply add the following ingredients together and serve chilled: • One cup cooked quinoa • One finely chopped bunch of your preferred variety of kale • Five cloves minced garlic • One cup dried cranberries • One cup chopped walnuts • 1/3 cup grated parmesan cheese • Salt and pepper to taste Kale can be a delicious ingredient in endless dishes. Not only is it one of the most healthful ingredients to add to weekly meals, but is versatile, fresh, and produced locally. You can’t go wrong with locally grown fruits, veggies and greens, but kale especially will reward you with better health. Is kale on your shopping list?
INGREDIENT OF THE MONTH VIA E M M A H A R R I S Fore more information, visit the Chico Certified Farmers Market. References: “Kale”, The Nutrition Source. Harvard T.H. Chan, School of Public Health www.hsph.harvard.edu/nutritionsource/kale/ Accessed 10 March 2018
• Remove and discard the stems of the kale; thinly slice the leaves. • In a large bowl, whisk together the tahini, 1 tablespoon of olive oil, 1 tablespoon of water, half the vinegar, as much of the garlic paste as you’d like, and as much of the chile paste as you’d like, depending on how spicy you’d like the dish to be. Season with salt and pepper. Add the sliced kale to the bowl; season with salt and pepper. Toss to coat. • Using your hands, vigorously massage the kale for 1 to 2 minutes, or until slightly softened. Set aside to marinate, stirring occasionally, for at least 10 minutes.
COOK THE CHICKEN: • While the kale marinates, pat the chicken dry with paper towels; season with salt and pepper on both sides. • In a medium pan, heat a drizzle of olive oil on medium-high until hot. Add the seasoned chicken and cook 5 to 7 minutes per side, or until browned and cooked through. Transfer to a cutting board.
THE REMAINING INGREDIENTS: • While the chicken cooks, cut off and discard the ends of the radishes; halve lengthwise, thinly slice crosswise. Place in a bowl and top with a drizzle of olive oil; season with salt and pepper. • Peel the orange; halve lengthwise, thinly slice crosswise discarding any seeds. Pit, peel, and
Tahini Chicken Kale Salad with Orange!
PREPARE & ROAST THE POTATOES:
top with the remaining vinegar and a drizzle of • Place a cookie sheet on the middle rack in the center of the oven, preheat to 450°F. • Halve the potatoes lengthwise, cut crosswise into 1/2-inch-thick pieces. Place on a sheet pan; drizzle Toss to coat.
and pepper.
MAKE THE SALAD & SERVE YOUR DISH: • Thinly slice the cooked chicken crosswise. Add the sliced radishes and orange and roasted
• Arrange in an even layer. Roast, flipping halfway • 2 Boneless Chicken Breasts
through, 20 minutes, or until lightly browned and
• 3 oz Radishes
tender when pierced with a fork. Remove from
• 1 bunch Kale
the oven.
• 1 Avocado • 1 Orange
olive oil to prevent browning. Season with salt
with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
INGREDIENTS:
• 1 Clove Garlic
thinly slice the avocado. Place in a bowl and
MAKE THE DRESSING & MARINATE THE KALE:
potatoes to the bowl of marinated kale; stir to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste. • Serve the salad topped with the sliced chicken and seasoned avocado. Enjoy!
• 1/2 lb Yukon Gold Potatoes • 2 Tbsps Tahini
• While the potatoes roast, peel and finely
• 2 Tbsps White Wine Vinegar
chop the garlic; using the flat side of your knife,
KALE RECIPE
• 1 1/2 tsps Chile Paste
smash until it resembles a paste (or use a zester)
This recipe was adapted/revised from Blue Apron.
VIA
JESSICA DOLAN 47
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to bring back pollens and nectars to support the hive. When you consider every third bite of food we eat relies on pollinators, even a single hive can make a difference. 2. Pollinator-friendly plantings. Whether your garden is an acre in size, or a few patio pots, all pollinators need nectar and pollen sources for survival. Diversity in plantings to incorporate many different types, colors and bloom cycles is the best way to support pollinator health.
The Plight of Pollinators The days are getting longer and the sun is getting brighter. The trees are blossoming into fragrant splendor…life experiences renewal with the promise of Spring. Without a doubt, none of earth’s creatures appreciate the changing of the seasons more than the honey bee. Hives are buzzing with activity as springtime bees take to flight. Sequestered in their safe honey bee haven otherwise known as a “bee hive”, as the temperatures rise, so do the bees. So many flowers…so little time! Honey bee democracy abounds as the queen is busy laying eggs, her nurse bees are tending the new-bee cells, worker bees are foraging and stores of honey are being built. The plight of pollinators, and the honey bee in particular, is the topic of discussion on so many fronts. Its importance is not overstated when you realize just how our planet’s food supply, and the health of our environment, is reliant upon pollinators for survival. So what are the most effective ways we can support our pollinators and encourage honey bee health? Here are a few suggestions: 1. Sustainability is the key. Increasing the number of pollinators increases the production of not only your fruits and vegetables, but your neighbor’s fruits and vegetables, and your neighbor’s neighbor’s flower garden, and beyond. A worker bee will fly about 3 miles
3. Eliminate use of pesticides, herbicides, bactericides, fungicides…just about anything with “cide” in the label! These products can create havoc for our pollinator population. 4. Offer clean water in a pollinatorfriendly receptacle. Most pollinators risk drowning in open water sources, so fill your birdbath with rocks and moss to provide a “landing platform” for bees, butterflies and bugs. 5. Spare a few of nature’s dead soldiers. Allow tree trunks and leaves to lie where they fall. In doing so, you provide habitat for nesting bees and beetles. 6. Become a “keeper.” Hobbyist beekeepers are doing their part by increasing the number of pollinators. When compared to many other hobbies, beekeeping is fairly inexpensive, a never-ending learning experience, and creates a true connection between the keeper, his or her family, and the environment. You will find websites dedicated to the support of pollinators that will help you with planting guides, use of garden chemicals, and native pollinator species habitats. Two of those sites are Project Apis M (projectapism.org) and Pollinator Partnership (pollinator.org). Bee a part of a healthy environment by supporting pollinator health!
GARDEN ADVICE VIA O L I V A R E Z H O N E Y B E E S For more information, visit ohbees.com. 49
Next is not to be afraid to fire back with questions of your own! Yes, bike shop employees are kind of dorks and love to tech out on our favorite gadgets, but every shop employee was once new to cycling and in your shoes. We are there to help you find the right pairing to your needs, that which will find that joy of being on two wheels and feeling like a kid again. The more you tell us, the more we can ask, and that leads directly to the best bike for you and your individual needs.
WHEELS
If all went well, you now have a few ideas of bikes that may work for you. Now comes the fun part. Ride them! The test ride is perhaps the single most important part of the process. You may jump on a bike that you thought was perfect, but it really doesn’t make you smile. It’s a nice bike, but there is no connection. Then you jump on that bike that you didn’t think much of, but wow, that thing was fun, and comfortable! Bottom line is go with the bike that excites you, because if you aren’t excited to get the bike out and ride, you probably won’t do it as much as you planned.
Spring is upon us, and for some of us, that includes thinking it is time for a new bike. You may walk into the bike shop and become overwhelmed with the selection of bikes that vary from skinny tire road bikes to mountain bikes with enough suspension to run over roots, rocks and other obstacles. There are also all the other bikes that fall into categories somewhere in between. After being stunned by the selection and the highly technical aspect of bikes, you walk out of the bike shop, a bit shell shocked and needing to process the experience. Now what?
Now that you have found a bike that is right, think about the earlier conversation and ask your associate about accessories: fenders, bags, baskets, bells (a necessity in Lower Park), helmets, ways to pack some water, locks (go big, you don’t want to lose that new ride), apparel, and whatever else you can discuss that will make your experience that much better. And if you aren’t buying those items now, make a list and chip away at them as you can. The gear to go with the bike can add up fast, so save some budget for them or get them as needed.
Finding The Perfect Pair Of
This situation is actually very common. The bikes vary from the low range of $400 up into the multiple thousands. That, in itself, is something to process! Now that you have taken some time to think about this new bike, how do you choose what is right for you? Your bike shop employees are there to help you get the bike that is just right. At some point in your quest for a bike, you have thought about what you would do with one. Think about that which motivated you to take that step into the shop. Do you want to ditch your car in favor of riding a bike to work or to run errands? Will the bike be a periodic or permanent replacement for your car? Would you like to make this a lifestyle 50
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shift, such as riding to the farmers market? Or are you thinking of getting a road bike, something that can take you miles from home, far enough that you think ‘wow, that’s a long drive, and I just rode it!’ You could be the new or veteran mountain biker, or the person chasing their wild and crazy children through Lower Park. Perhaps it will be used as a rehab tool from an injury, or maybe you just want to feel like you are 12 years old again. Whatever that goal, that motivation, put it into words. Then head into the bike shop. The employee you run into should be an enthusiast of two wheels and pedals, and most likely partakes in some sort of cycling. This ambassador to the wonderful world of bikes will work with you to communicate your motivation, goals, and aspirations with cycling. This ambassador should be asking all the questions needed to get you on the right bike. Where do you plan on riding? What would you say the typical distance or duration of the ride will be? In what direction do you see this activity growing for you? Do you have any past injuries that may be painful when on a bike, or range of motion issues? These are just a small sample of questions to be asked, so be prepared to explain those and answer any other questions that may arise.
Getting the right bike for you is not only the best advice that can be given, but crucial. Pairing a person up with the wrong bike, wrong size frame, or other pairing that is off in one way or another is a recipe for a bike hanging in the garage with flat tires and cobwebs. Know what experience you are after, and as long as everyone is on the same page, you will have many fun filled miles in your future.
BIKE ADVICE
VIA
EDD HAMILTON
Edd Hamilton of Chico Sports LTD. For more information, visit Ed at Chico Sports LTD located at 698 Mangrove Ave, Chico 530.894.1110
PHOTOS PROVIDED BY NORTH RIM ADVENTURE SPORTS
Safety First I T ’ S WO R T H A B I K E R ’ S L I F E
More and more people are discovering the simple joy and practicality of riding a bicycle. With its flat roads and myriad trails, Chico is an ideal city for riding a bike so it is no wonder everyone from your grandmother to your little sister is cruising around on two wheels. As riding gains popularity as a preferred method of transportation, do not forget how to stay safe out there with the wind in your hair. Taking that little bit of extra preparation before you ride is worth the prevention of accidents.
Here are some suggestions: • Obey Traffic Laws. Did you know that the same laws apply to cyclists as they do for drivers? This means stopping at stop signs, stop lights, and riding on the right side of the road. Staying in the bike lane and being aware of cars and pedestrians will make everyone’s day better. California bicycle laws can be found on Calbike.org.
• Front and rear lights, on day and night. These days, cars come standard with daytime running lights because cars with daytime running lights are less likely to be involved in a collision. We, as cyclists, can take cues from our road sharing counterparts and equip ourselves as well. A bright, flashing daytime running light is a great way to be seen 24/7. Drivers are increasingly distracted and you need to make yourself part of that distraction. • Protecting your brain is a no brainer, but it seems like many people do not want to spend money on a helmet or aren’t into the style of it. Helmets have come a long way in looks and protection. They may mess your hair up a bit, but so would that car that may pull out in front of you! Look smart and save a trip to the ER. Helmets come in many styles and colors and start around $40, going up in price for comfort, style, and ventilation. • Safety check your bicycle to be sure it is in good running order. Properly working brakes and gears and properly inflated tires can help you have more safe and efficient ride. Demystifying the working ways of your bicycle is simpler than you may think and will give you the knowledge needed to deal with any mishaps while out on the road. Bring it by a local bike shop and have a safety check or tune up done. Have fun!
• Keep a constant awareness about your surroundings. While you may be looking out for cars, they may not always be looking out for you. Maintaining a watch on what’s happening around you will give you the upper hand in protecting yourself from harm’s way. • Be visible to cars by wearing reflective graphics or stickers on you and your gear at night and high visibility clothing during the day. This is the most important thing you can do to be safe on your bike. High visibility or reflective hits on your clothing that accentuate your biomotion help drivers to instantly recognize you as a person riding a bike.
BIKE ADVICE
VIA
TYLER SCHROCK
For more information, you can find Tyler at North Rim Adventure Sports at 178 E 2nd Street in Downtown, Chico 530.345.2453. 51
WRITTEN BY KEVIN DOLAN PHOTOS PROVIDED BY AIDS/LIFECYCLE CHICO TEAM AND MICHELLE CAMY
RIDE. LOVE. LIVE. 52
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Four of the eleven members of the 2018 Chico AIDS/LifeCycle team made their way up the stairs of the Upgraded Living office and instantly changed the normal, quiet, working atmosphere into an air of energy, excitement and genuine joy. This is the 7th year a Chico team will join the 545 mile journey from San Francisco to Los Angeles. This ride is not for the faint of heart. In addition to the actual ride, with its climbs and twist and turns, coupled with the weather challenges; each rider must also raise $3000.00. This is not the
typical commitment for normal fundraisers. This is not a normal fundraiser nor a typical commitment. These riders shared that each of them easily raise more than the required minimum. In the previous six years, Chico teams have raised $195,582.00. This year’s team has a goal of $75,000.00 and, to date, has a total of $21,500.00. If any of these numbers appear staggering, each of them will be quick to say that the reason behind the ride is equally staggering. In a world of worthy causes, these riders are acutely
aware of the stigma attached to theirs. When asked about that fact, the quick retort is, “That is why we ride.” Not only to ride, but to have an opportunity to be involved in real conversations. “We ride out of love, so many can live. Let’s end Aids. Together.” Katie Selcido, Amy Louis, Casey Dinsmore and, first time rider, Lorena Navarro, will join the other members of the Chico team as well as 2,500 other riders from June 3rd through the 9th. The ride ends at the LA’s City Hall park the Saturday before Pride Day. Listening to each of these four riders’ personal story was not only eye opening, but also powerful, moving, and sad. Their smiles and undeterred drive picked up the gloomy atmosphere into a bright understanding of the reason behind their joy for this ride. They made sure to note that the ride is fully supported. The Chico team, itself, includes a pair of medics. These medics do not ride but rather are along to fill any need. They boasted that the food is amazing and that every 20 miles is a stopping point for water and food and a necessary people check by the medical and massage support teams. Each night, these 2,500 riders pitch some 1,000 tents for their much needed rest. As a “team,” the Chico contingent adores this portion of the trip due to the camaraderie and fun these times add to the overall experience.
a razor sharp switchback where, from the sky, when all the riders get grouped together around the entire bend, the view resembles the aids ribbon. Successful and powerful pictures have been taken! Chilling indeed. Speaking of powerful, this the first time all of the riders will be ending their journey at the steps of the Los Angeles City Hall. The bigger the spotlight on this event, the greater chance to raise the necessary funds to end this
horrible disease once and for all. Since 2002, these rides have raised more than $177 million dollars, rode a total of 8,720 miles and raised awareness among 878,830 unique donors. If you wish to find out more about all of this, simply go to aidslifecycle.org.
IF YOU WISH TO DONATE TO ANY OF THE MEMBERS OF THE CHICO TEAM OR FIND OUT MORE ABOUT BECOMING A MEMBER CONTACT KATIE SALCIDO AT STONEWALLCHICO.ORG.
The excitement and banter rose to new heights when the group began describing two specific days from the ride. The first is Day 3, where the riders, all 2,500 of them, find themselves arriving in the town of Bradley, population, 200. The local farmers, coupled with the school district, had a fundraising idea of their own. A barbeque lunch for the riders to support Bradley’s after school program. Most riders are prepared for this and carry cash in their pockets to pay for lunch. Two positive things have happened as a result. One is that the after school program has benefitted from the $30,000.00 annual total. The other is the positive conversations that have taken place along with the letters riders receive during the year from the local students. Conversations such as this with locals and the multitude of AIDS/LIFECYCLE participants are simply rare and have a huge impact on the cause itself. The very next day, the 4th, is known as Red Dress Day. It is the men’s favorite day and one that can leave goosebumps on your arms and neck. The riders leave Stanley Park and climb in a series of switchbacks. At the top of this climb lies 53
Bicycle Riding For All We are so fortunate to live in Northern California where cycling can be enjoyable with a variety of options for the whole family. Bicycle riding can be an inexpensive fun way to get outside with your family and friends exploring new areas in a relaxing environment. Riding with kids can appear daunting, but like all family trips, with a little planning, can be fun for all.
TIPS for Riding with the Family: ROUTE: Keep it simple: choose a destination that allows your kids to get off the bike and run around. Think park, water destination, or even to the Saturday morning market which includes free bike valet parking. TRAILER OR BIKE SEAT FOR HAULING THE LITTLE ONES?: This is really a preference for you as the parent. Both are safe, however the trailer allows your child to eat snacks, 54
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drink water, and play with toys. Also, a trailer does not expose them to the elements. Trailers are a bit more expensive, but on the upside you can resell them easily. On the other hand, the bike seat allows you to be right there with your child, but remember anything that happens to you and the bike, happens to your child as well. Most importantly wear a helmet no matter which option you chose.
weather. Wind burns can hurt just like bad sun exposure. Helmets are like car seats, a must. The easiest way to get your kid to wear a helmet is to wear one yourself. BICYCLES: Pump up those tires! Proper inflation will reduce flats and make riding more enjoyable. If you only do one thing to your bicycle to maintain it, do this one. Get the kids to help you with this task. Kids love to use bicycle pumps! You can get an inexpensive floor pump at a bicycle shop or any other box store. A helpful tip is to look on the sidewall of the bicycle tire for the proper inflation, you will see a number followed by "psi".
FOOD: Pack snacks and plenty of water. As a parent, you probably know that a happy child is a fed child. Plus, snacks help mid ride meltdowns for both you and your child. Wear a backpack or invest in a front basket for your bike to haul small items.
Family Friendly Rides:
WEAR SUNSCREEN & HELMETS: Apply sunscreen to face, neck and arms. Do not be fooled by cloudy days as sun filters through all kinds of
Whether you are looking for a fun ride for the whole family, friends, or just something casual to get you excited about riding a bicycle, we have something for everyone.
MIDDLE PARK: A Hidden Treasure If you are looking for an opportunity to take the kids out on some dirt trails it would be wise not to start with Upper Park. You may enjoy mountain biking in Upper Park, but if you remember the days of learning how to navigate these trails, it can be brutal. Instead, take the kids out on the trails in Middle Park, located on the Northside of 5 Mile. You can either ride through lower park or drive out to Middle park via Wildwood, turn left on 5 Mile Road, and park in the parking lot. The trails are really easy to navigate, smooth, fun little loops that will help you and your child to learn how to ride on trails without major obstacles. Also, middle park trails are open year round! Middle Park trails are not impacted like lower park trails. Rarely will you find other people out there and, if you do, there is plenty of time to see them and adjust your route. Also, the beauty of Middle park is the central location. Middle Park is right next to 5 mile so you can soak your feet in the water. It is also next to Hooker Oak park and Wildwood Park if you need to let the kiddos run around a little more. As an added bonus, all three parks have drinking fountains and restrooms.
BIKE ADVICE
VIA
COMANCHE CREEK AND MIDWAY BIKE PATH: This little tucked away jewel has been getting a lot of attention lately from the City of Chico. If you are looking for a quick outing, drive to the Comanche Creek parking lot located on East Street and the Midway. There is a nice part paved path and part gravel path that will be fun for everyone. Want a longer ride? Park in the same place and then use the crosswalk to cross the midway and take the midway bike path out to Patrick Ranch, enjoy the museum or just let the kiddos run around for a bit while having a snack. For the adults, you can ride around Comanche Creek and then go check out Secret Trail Brewing Company or Hooker Oak Distillery for a fun afternoon outing. PARADISE LAKE: Paradise lake is a great little out and back with a nice compact gravel trail. The trail is wide enough for kids to zigzag around. The route is moderately level allowing for a scenic ride. Be sure to pack a lunch and snacks for the everyone to take a nice break. Paradise Lake is located off Coutelenc Road on Lucretia Road. Be prepared to pay $3 for parking.
FEATHER FALLS, not just for hiking: When you think of Feather Falls you think hiking. However, there is also a great bike ride for everyone. There are two trails to the falls. One route is 3.5 miles, the other 4.5 miles. The 4.5 mile route is an easier more level ride. Make the ride a more scenic loop by taking one trail out and a different one back. This would be an appropriate ride for older kids. The trail can be a little challenging due to distance and some steeper sections, but nowhere near the complexity of Upper Bidwell Park. Plan on parking your bicycle and taking a short hike down to the lookout platform at Feather Falls. Bring plenty of snacks and water and enjoy this adventure. No matter where you ride with your family, friends, or by yourself, remember to:
Ride Safe. Ride Smart. Most of all, Have Fun!
RENEE BUCHAN
Renee is the Executive Director at Chico Velo Cycling Club. For more information, visit chicovelo.org or stop by 125 W. 3rd Street Suite 210 in Chico.
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WRITTEN BY NERISSA QUINN
CALLING ALL BIKERS! For so many, biking is more than a passion, it’s a lifestyle. If you’re like me and willing to travel for your sport, we’ve got the inside scoop on semi-local races to attend this year. Below are some of the many 2018 biking events that are taking place not too far from home.
APRIL 29
APRIL 28
MAY 1–31
10th Annual Folsom Powerhouse Century Ride 705 Gold Lake Dr. #320 Folsom, CA 95630 Info: This event supports the National Parkinson Foundation. Cyclist can choose a 30, 65, or 100 mile route. Folsompowerhousecentury.com The Great Auburn Epic Race Auburn State Recreation Area: Map Edit 501 El Dorado St, Auburn, CA 95603 Info: This race course is 25 miles long, there are 4 timed stages totaling 17 miles and 8 miles of transfer stages. 56
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37th Annual Chico Wildflower Century Chico, California Info: Rider check-in inside of the commercial building at the Silver Dollar Fairgrounds, Chico. wildflowercentury.org
2018 Shasta Bike Challenge Info: A bike challenge to engage the biking community to ride as much as they can! Participants are entered into a prize drawing each day. This challenge will be using the Love To Ride platform. Registration opens in April. lovetoride.net/usa Questions: shastabikemonth@gmail.com or 229.8456
MAY 5
Lemurian Mountain Bike Race 2018 Brandy Creek Marina at Whiskeytown Lake, Redding CA Info: Lemurian is a non-profit organization whose purpose is to
promote cycling and raise funds for local biking organizations and trails. To register go online to shastalemurian.com. No race day registration, mail-in registration must be received by April 30th.
MAY 6
2018 Napa Valley Tour de Cure Veterans Home of California: 100 California Dr, Yountville, CA 94599 Info: The event is to support the fight to end diabetes. This race includes a 100 mile, 80 mile, 50 mile, 25 mile, and 10 mile ride. Don’t feel like biking? Show your support in the 5K Run/Walk. donations.diabetes.org Questions: Tom Hall thall@diabetes.org or 510.654.4499 x 7460
SEPTEMBER 9
16th Annual Tour De Tahoe—Bike Big Blue Info: Bike around Tahoe’s 72-mile shoreline! Rain or shine, the race is on. The race will start and finish in “Parking Lot C” of the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Lake Tahoe. bikethewest.com/tour-de-tahoe
SEPTEMBER 15 & 16
Unknown Coast Weekend Humboldt County Fairgrounds, Ferndale, CA Info: The ride begins and finishes in Ferndale, consisting of two riding days–61 miles on Saturday and 39 miles Sunday. Registration opens in May. chicovelo.org
MAY 19
SEPTEMBER 22
MAY 20
OCTOBER 6
Sonoma County Backroad Challenge Pengrove Community Park, 11800 Main St Pengrove, CA 95951 Info: Three ride options: 36.52, 65.74, or 99.54-mile bike ride through Sonoma and Marin Counties. After the race, enjoy the Back Road Festival at Penngrove Park! All proceeds go towards The Petaluma Sunrise Foundation. backroadchallenge.com/home
Paradise Tour de Chocolate Bike Ride Paradise Community Park, Paradise CA Info: Recreational bike ride with three different routes: Historic Heritage Trail (8 miles), Paradise Lake (15 mile), and 3 Doon Grade Beyond the Lake (25 miles). chocolatefest.us/events/tour Questions: Debbie Moseley 530.342.4896
JUNE 3
America’s Most Beautiful Bike Ride—Lake Tahoe Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Lake Tahoe, Nevada Info: The race offers 3 route distances: 100, 72, and 34 mile. Your entry includes an After Ride Pool Party with food and a live band. Registration opens January 1. Sequoia Century Bicycle Ride Foothill College, Los Altos Hills, CA Info: This ride has 100 mile, 72 mile, 67 mile, and 44 mile routes. No day of registration. Late fee beginning May 1. westernwheelersbicycleclub.wildapricot.org/sequoia
JUNE 3–9
AIDS/LifeCycle San Francisco, California Info: 545 mile journey down the California coast from San Francisco to Los Angeles. This ride helps raise funds for HIV/AIDS-related services. aidslifecycle.org
JUNE 10
9th Annual Bike the Bridges & BrewFest Martinez Waterfront Amphitheater, 115 Tarantino Dr, Martinez, CA 94553 Info: This ride benefits athletes of Special Olympics in Northern California. Riders have four ride options: 25 mile, 50K, 100K, or Century. Wristbands are available online and onsite for unlimited tastings at the Brewfest. A BBQ lunch will be provided to all rides, guest tickets available. TheBridgeRide.com
The Gold Rush Mountain Bike Race Granite Beach, Folsom Lake SRA : 800 Douglas Blvd, Granite Bay, CA 95746 Info: Junior 10 miles, Novice and Clydesdale 20 miles, Sport/Single-Speed 30 miles, or Expert/SS Expert/Pro: 40 Miles totalbodyfitness.com
Sacramento Century Challenge Capitol Mall & 8th Street, Sacramento, California Info: Four races distances including: Full Century, Metric Century, ½ Century, and Fun Ride with rest stop throughout the way. Sacramentocentury.com
OCTOBER 14
The TBF MTB 50 Miler Granite Beach, 8000 Douglas Blvd. Granite Bay, CA 95746 Info: 10th annual endurance mountain bike race at Granite Bay, Folsom lake. Rain or shine, the race is on! A variety of race options for solo rides, 2-person teams & 4-person teams. active.com/granite-bay-ca totalbodyfitness.com/site/races With all of these great semi-local opportunities for bikers of all ages and skill levels, there is only one thing left to do—get out and ride!
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Make sure to pick up a copy of our May 2018 issue featuring Women In Business!
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Michael Sterling THE MAN BEHIND THE CRAFT “It all starts with a beautiful piece of wood,” says Michael Sterling, the local craftsman behind Sterling Woodworking. Seated in front of a low wooden coffee table he made himself, Sterling looks the part of a seasoned woodworker in his orange plaid shirt and black North Face vest. His artfully decorated home is filled with his original work—sleek, functional furniture that showcases the natural colors and patterns embedded in the lumber. “See the color in all that?” he asks, gesturing to a cabinet he calls the “Widow’s Peak.” The speculation piece—that is, a piece designed for gallery display—features a top that gently crests in the center and a pair of
vibrant cabinet doors. “All the stripes—the oranges, reds and greens and blues and greys,” he says. “I mean, it’s phenomenal.” When asked how he started learning to craft furniture, Sterling deadpans, “I did everything. It’s called obsession.” He learned the basic tools of the trade from a mentor, attended conferences, picked up tricks from peers, and read every book he could find on the subject. One writer who was particularly influential to Sterling was James Krenov, a famous woodworker who helped spearhead the rejuvenation of the craft in the 60s and early 70s. “Woodworking, pottery, painting,
weaving—all those crafts went nuts. It was just a very impassioned time,” Sterling recalls. “It was like a revolution.” Around the time of this woodworking explosion, Sterling moved from Portland, Oregon, to Chico, where he made a fortuitous discovery. “Our wood in Chico is world famous,” Sterling says. “People come from all over the world to get these trees. It’s called Claro Walnut. I moved here not knowing that’s what they had.” This unlikely coincidence convinced Sterling that he needed to pursue woodworking in earnest. “It was just like, well geez, I gotta do this!” he laughs. Thirtyfive years later, Sterling’s furniture is truly exquisite, reflecting years of experience, also careful study of the famous original Austrian, German and English masters, and the influence of big names in woodworking such as Rennie Mackintosh, Gustav Stickley, Edward Barnsley, Sam Maloof, and Charles and Henry Greene. 59
WRITTEN BY EMILY HUSO PHOTOS BY FRANK REBELO
Although Sterling demonstrates incredible artistry in his work, he insists he does not consider himself much of an artist. “I’m more of a craftsman,” he says. “I like to make practical things.” His style is traditional and elegant, distinguished by his custom veneering, ebony moulding and old-school joinery. When starting a new piece, he either dreams up a design or creates to customer specifications before hand-drawing the design in full scale. Next, he picks out a stunning piece of wood to act as the focal point for the piece. Unlike some furniture makers who procure their wood from lumber yards, Sterling again prefers to keep it old school. “For the most part, my furniture is made out of wood that I actually cut the tree down and milled the lumber with a chainsaw,” Sterling says. “It’s incredibly hard work.” Once milled, the lumber can take anywhere from two to five years to air dry. Although air-drying preserves the natural color of the wood better than more timely alternatives, it makes straightening the boards a long and challenging process. “Wood moves all over the place,” Sterling says. “That's one of the things about being in furniture. It’s a constant battle with the wood movement.” To make sure the wood is flat, each board must be reworked multiple times 60
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with several days of air-drying between each session. Depending on the design, it can take Sterling anywhere from ten months to three years to create a piece. While Sterling has no plans to stop making furniture any time soon, he expresses concern about the future of old-school woodworking, which has become less prevalent in recent years. “I don’t think very many people really understand or value it,” he says regretfully. “I worry that people aren’t going to know how to do it.” Yet, just as Sterling passed the craft on to those who worked for him at his shop, the burden of responsibility is now on them to teach others. We have woodworkers like Sterling and his successors to thank for the preservation of this rich and culturally important form of art.
TO FIND OUT MORE ABOUT MICHAEL AND HIS WORK VISIT STERLINGWOODWORKING.COM.
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COMMUNITY CALENDAR APRIL 1
APRIL 13 & 14
EASTER
World Premiere of 3 Keys at monca 6:30–9:30 p.m. 900 Esplanade, Chico Cost: Tickets can be purchased at the door. Info: Recommended for adults only/no host bar. 530.343.9778
APRIL 5 Thursday Night Market 6:00–9:00 p.m. Downtown Chico Info: downtownchico.com
APRIL 6 90th Anniversary Celebration North State Symphony 7:30–10:00 p.m. 1489 Myers Street, Oroville Cost: $20 General Admission | $16 STAGE Members | $40 (includes premier seating at the Silent Film event on 4/7) | $100 (includes Champagne Reception and premier seating at the Silent Film event on 4/7)
APRIL 7 Poppy Walk & 5K Run 8:30 a.m. Bidwell Park Info & Registration: poppywalk.org
APRIL 8 Children’s Carnival Fundraiser benefiting Little Red Hen’s Autism Programs 10:00 a.m.–2:00 p.m. Bidwell Park on Sycamore Field Cost: Free, Game tickets $.25 each Info: littleredhen.org or 530.897.0900
APRIL 10 Shinedown, Empire City 8:00 p.m. Senator Theatre, 517 Main Street, Chico Cost: $40 Info: jmaxproductions.net
APRIL 12 & 13 The Banff Mountain Film Festival World Tour 7:30 p.m. Laxson Auditorium, Chico Tickets: $17 Adult | $15 Senior $10 Youth | $10 Chico State Student
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APRIL 14 Honey Bee Festival Hobby Day 2018 9:00 a.m.–3:00 p.m. 6398 County Road 20, Orland Cost: $3 Kids | $5 Adults Info: ohbhobbyday.com or 530.865.0298
APRIL 17
APRIL 28 Book Signing: Rudy’s Rules for Travel: Life Lessons from Around the Globe 11:00 a.m.–2:00 p.m. ABC Books, Chico Info: All proceeds from the sale of “Rudy’s Rules for Travel: Life Lessons from Around the Globe” go to scholarships for local students.
APRIL 30TH Feather River Health Foundation’s 31st Annual Golf Tournament 11:00 a.m.–7:00 p.m. Butte Creek Country Club Info: FRHFoundation.org or 530.876.7166
TAX DAY
APRIL 20 Tyler Childers Live 9:00 p.m., Doors open at 8:00 p.m. El Rey Theater, Chico Cost: $18 Info: eventbrite.com
APRIL 21 12th Annual California Nut Festival 11:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m. Patrick Ranch Museum, Chico Cost: $30 in advance | $35 Day Of Info: californianutfestival.com 2018 Wildflower Music Festival 11:30 a.m.–8:00 p.m. 2500 Estes Road, Chico Cost: Kids und free | $40 General Admission Info: Wildflowermusicfest.com 20th Annual Kids Fishing Day 6:00 a.m.–3:00 p.m. Paradise Lake, Paradise Info: PIDWater.com
APRIL 27 Aaron Watson 9:00 p.m., doors open at 8:00 p.m. Senator Theater, Chico Cost: $20 Info: jmaxproductions.net
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APRIL WINNER: XAI XIONG SALSI
PHOTO BY MICHAEL MEJIA
BACKPAGE
The second, of a four part series, about juggling the juxtaposition of being a native Chicoan from our Editor-in-Chief, Kevin Dolan.
circle clear around the huge living room, including the border of each of the three doors that led in and out. This mailbox serves as nothing more than a precursor for the wonder to behold. As the story goes, the house was built by a contractor who, when each of his construction jobs were completed, would then take the leftover materials from that job to the Cottage Ave. property and add another room. The Winchester Mystery house in San Jose holds no candle to my childhood home. Allow me to attempt a verbal tour. The ”house” perched in the center of a one acre property. The initial construction took the form of a high and long a-frame rectangle. On the front half was the entryway and, complete with rafters exposed, was the aforementioned living room. The back side housed a bedroom with a long walk-in closet that was occupied by two of my sisters. This bedroom was to become known as “Grand Central Station.” A side door led to a large bathroom with an enormous corner bathtub. The bathroom led to a short hallway and the kitchen. The kitchen with its white metal cabinets and the doors that would not shut tightly. Speaking of not shutting. I grew up with a heavy, large front door that never did shut completely or correctly. As a result, I have been a lifelong light sleeper!
N OW A N D T H E N
Then and Then... I wonder how many of us ever wanted to buy the house we grew up in. What would we have done with it? What would it look like today? I drove by my childhood home this morning and was astonished. Where my quirky, oddly constructed cottage once stood was a magnificently sprawling ranch style home with impeccably manicured landscaping. I studied it from the street for a long while. Kept staring at it until I could recognize where the original front door was located and until I could identify the whereabouts of each and every original room. I had the instinct to park, knock on the door, explain who I was and ask for a tour. That urge faded quickly and I simply drove away. 15 Cottage Ave is the address of the home my brothers and sisters and I grew up and out of. It was the second house on the left at the mouth of a cul-de-sac which resembled a broken four leaf clover. No one could miss the gigantic mailbox perched at the end of the long and windy asphalt driveway. In today’s real estate standards, that mailbox could be listed as an additional bedroom. During the holidays it was filled and refilled with an enormous amount of Christmas cards, enough to
Next in line, according to this fly-by-the-seat-of-your-pants architecture, was the addition of a formal dining room. Located on the livingroom/kitchen side of the expanding premises, it proved a beautiful space hosting all kinds of family memories. The other side of the house came in two parts. The first included a long hallway, mirroring the original entry and bedroom wall. Off this hallway were two additional bedrooms, one occupied by my parents in their Rob and Laura Petrie decor. The other housed my other two sisters. Finally, on the back wall of this hallway/bedroom addition, perched a small rectangular bedroom with an even smaller adjacent bathroom. This is where my two brothers and I slept. It had just enough room for a single bed on one side with bunk beds right next it; with a very narrow pathway between. From cinder blocks and bricks to tongue and groove siding and stucco, this house had every kind of construction material known to mankind. The exterior was white and green and brown and tan. Somehow, if you had no idea about any part of this story, the house worked. Nothing stood out as glaringly odd which, to this contractor’s credit, makes the story quaint and filled with a plethora of memories. Some which will be shared. For now, I will leave you with these facts. This enigma of a house was built before Bidwell Junior High which now resides across the street and at a time when there was far more English and black walnut trees than structures of any kind.
Until then... 63
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