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FROM THE EDITOR In light of everything, we pulled the cover and its story we had readied for April. In doing so, we reduced the magazine to 48 pages for only the second time in 11 years. We are excited about the pulled cover and its story, however, it simply would not have been appropriate and we are hoping to move it to June. In its place, we selected the unofficial symbol of the COVID-19 campaign along with the phrase, “Amid the Mayhem.” We are, indeed, surrounded by havoc. It certainly is unprecedented with its way of changing each and every day. As I am writing this a week before the magazine comes out, it is with some trepidation just where we will be by the time it arrives. If our concentration remains on flattening the curve, we may be in a better place. I can’t get rid of the recurring phrase in my head stating—“It is going to get worse before it gets better.” As difficult as many of the decisions our leaders have made, they are for the greater good. Staying home, socially isolating ourselves, remains the best plan to stay the damage. We followed up our cover with some supporting pieces. One of our favorite contributors, Lance Ferris, shows us how to stay calm in the face of stress. His words and ideas, written in a practical and clear manner, will be of great help. We had a lot of fun pairing headings with the phrase “and quarantine” while spending a fair amount of time putting together the lists of reads and watchables and listen to’s available to take you away and entertain, educate, laugh, cry, and to whatever kind of emotion becomes the right response. There is also a wonderful article detailing the power of music. It speaks to the calming nature of music to help heal and calm the hurting. The entire piece is packed full of ways music can move us and get us moving. We would like to believe the entire magazine serves as a delightful distraction for you. The Backpage goes down the path of events and happenings which produced a profound and lasting affect. I chose a short list of events from my life and shared the affecting results. What we are going through right now has only affected us with a degree of stress, perhaps even bouts of boredom, uncertainty, and frustration. The true effect remains to be seen, and very well may be catastrophic. I would like to believe we are going in the right direction, clearing the way for the virus to run its empty course. For now, on to May and more of the unknown.
Kevin Dolan Editor-in-Chief
UPGRADED LIVING STAFF AVEED KHAKI Publisher/Owner KEVIN DOLAN Editor-in-Chief
NERISSA QUINN
SHELLY BRANDON
Production Director
Writer
JASON CORONA
FRANK REBELO
Sales Director
Photographer
DARREN MICHELS
JENNY SKIBO
Product Integration & Mobility Strategy
Photographer
ALEX GRANT Writer
MICHELLE CAMY Photographer
BRIAN LUONG Writer
CONTRIBUTORS BRITTNEY RITCHIE
NIKOLE ENNS
Beauty
Design
HRiQ
DR. SHANE SMITH
Human Resources
Health
KEVIN DOLAN
DR. SHEEVAUN KHAKI
Backpage
Feature
LEISL JONES
SWEENEY & MICHEL
What Are You Comprised Of?
Feature & Finance
LANCE FERRIS
DR. VIMALI PAUL, M.D.
Feature
Skin Care
For editorial or general magazine inquiries, please contact: Kevin Dolan, 530.894.8091 kevin@upgradedliving.com For sales inquiries, please contact: Jason Coronoa, 530.591.2634 Sales@UpgradedLiving.com
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CONTENTS APRIL 2020 COMMUNITY
FOOD & DRINK
10 Meet Cool Kid Abe Del Real and learn
40 No, the mangosteen does not taste
the academics behind football, school, and volunteering.
27 We celebrate our local nonprofit Amputee Outreach and their wonderful work.
63 Our Editor-in-Chief reflects on being greatly affected by events and happenings.
HEALTH & BEAUTY
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12 A surprising list of foods that help to reduce the amount of inflammation in your body.
14 An important list of 10 ways you can strengthen your immune system.
16 A glimpse at the trends 2020 has in
like mangoes, as it has a taste quite unique itself.
41 Broadway Heights serves up the recipe for their Friday New England Clam Chowder.
ARTS & MUSIC 44 We offer the incredible diversity of the power of music in a time where we can use all of the magic music possesses.
FEATURE 18 Lance Ferris shows us the in’s and out’s of staying calm through the COVID-19’s stressful times.
store for haircuts and dye jobs.
HOME & GARDEN 29 Ever wonder where the top designers shop? You will find out here.
34 Everything you need to know about starting your seeds off right.
24 IN OUR MARCH ISSUE’S ARTICLE ABOUT BUTTE COLLEGE’S SUSTAINABILITY PROGRAM, WE INCORRECTLY WROTE THAT INSTRUCTOR MIMI RILEY HAS A PHD, AN UNFORTUNATE ERROR WHICH WE ARE SORRY FOR.
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Throughout the magazine, we offer the best of books, movies, programs, podcasts and more to assist in making the time flow by more pleasantly.
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Real Deal
Abe Del Real showed up late for his interview, explaining he had to meet with his AP English teacher about his oral report on his chosen book—The Handmaid's Tale. The charming glint in his eye and his engaging smile made the whole being late thing disappear. Abe is comfortable around adults, even strangers, and possesses the gift of gab. He is also clearly a gifted athlete as the scholarship to UC Davis to play football attests. However, for Abe, it is all academic, right down to the choice of college. Academics indeed matters a great deal as a glance at his current schedule reveals. From Advanced Math Concepts and Anatomy to Advanced Placement classes in Psychology, Government, Economics, and English, Abe takes school seriously as demonstrated by maintaining a grade point average higher than 4.0. One thing is for certain, the sum total of Abe Del Real is far greater than football and school. Abe attended Hooker Oak Elementary, followed by both Chico Junior and Senior High where he was able to develop a vision outside the four walls of a classroom. He believes in volunteering and has managed as much as he can, while understanding it can be tough to balance it with the demands of school and sports. Abe has been an ongoing volunteer through the Chico Unified School District’s rotation of dinners at the Torres Shelter for five years now. He “enjoys serving the homeless and interacting with them. It’s good to see how thankful they are.” He knows it is not just the food and believes it it is “way more than that.” Abe also has served as a camp counselor 10
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WRITTEN BY KEVIN DOLAN PHOTO BY JENNY SKIBO
The
at Shady Creek, a week long adventure for 5th graders. He loved the age group for their intelligence and willingness. However, Abe points out the opportunity to attend the Rotary sponsored Camp Royal as a “defining moment of my life.” He was picked out of the two candidates to attend the Youth Leadership Award Conference held each June in the mountains of Northern California. With an obvious emphasis on leadership, the campers participate in team building experiences. Abe was completely enamored at the ability of kids “to show such vulnerables sides,” coupled with the absolute “amazing speakers.” He just shook his head and said, “I got to go to this for a week.” It is not difficult to find adults shaking their heads at this well rounded young man with such a clear focus, empathy, and awareness beyond his peers. Abe was able to play varsity football for three years and is happy he will continue to play at the Division I level. He indeed selected UC Davis over other scholarship offers for its academic setting and reputation. He plans on focusing 90% of his schedule on managerial economics. Typical of Abe, when given the choice in his high school Advanced Placement Government and Economics class to declare an emphasis—he chose Government. He wanted to get the necessary background in this subject while in high school, already knowing what his emphasis was going to be at the college level. We celebrate Abe and applaud his discerning and diverse ways. We look forward to tracking his bright future and wish him all the best.
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YOUR HEALTH F O O D S T H AT R E D U C E I N F L A M M AT I O N
Just imagine rolling around in a bunch of fiberglass insulation or trying to sleep with a bunch of sand in your bed. It’s super uncomfortable and irritating and every time you move it seems to get worse. Those little tiny “bites” on your skin, the invisible nicks and cuts that start to itch and burn. Every time you go to change positions you feel like you're rubbing sandpaper on your body. Sounds terrible, right? Well, I’m talking about something we all deal with on a daily basis, something that if left unchecked, can turn into an absolute nightmare. I’m talking about inflammation. We’ve all heard the word “inflammation” before. It’s something that is associated with just about anything that is uncomfortable and painful. Smash your thumb? Inflammation. Arthritis pain? Inflammation. Heart disease? Inflammation. Thyroid disorder? Inflammation. Sinus problems? Inflammation. Even stress! Inflammation. So is inflammation the cause of all these problems? Nope. It’s your brain’s response to these problems. According to medical dictionaries, inflammation is your body’s way of getting rid of “noxious agents and damaged tissue.” When something irritates your body, whether it’s food, chemical, you kicked your pinky toe into the coffee table, you were exposed to a virus or bacteria, or are simply under lots of stress, your brain will produce and send lots of extra blood, specifically white blood cells, to the area 12
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that is damaged so it can get rid of the irritant. The process of inflammation is what hurts and makes us feel uncomfortable. Depending on where the process is taking place will make us feel certain symptoms such as pain, swelling, fatigue... So, inflammation is normal and necessary, even though it’s uncomfortable. The good news is we can help our body regulate it through what we eat. Certain foods actually help not only reduce the total inflammation, they can even stop it before it starts! Foods high in compounds called anthocyanins, catechins, and phenols such as berries, cherries, and grapes are great at halting inflammation. Look for foods like avocados and wild caught fatty fish like salmon that are rich in Omega-3’s which can help stop inflammation before it starts! Using extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) and eating mushrooms, peppers, and tomatoes also helps reduce the body’s reaction to inflammation. Turmeric contains curcumin, a tasty spice and can also be taken as a supplement. Last but not least…dark chocolate! Tastes great and has super high antioxidant power. The great news is we can help our bodies manage inflammation while eating great tasting food at the same time.
HEALTH ADVICE
VIA
DR. SHANE SMITH
Dr. Shane Smith is an Upper Cervical Chiropractor who helps “de-stress” the brain, taking patients from a “fight-flight” state to a “rest-relax” state and keeping them there. His motto is “Get Hope, Get Well, Live Life!”. For moe information visit him at 1281 East Ave #100 in Chico or call 530.893.1446.
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WE PUT THE CARE IN
Skin Care!
HEALTHY IMMUNE SYSTEM
At the DermBar Med-Spa, we believe in client comfort to make the experience calm and enjoyable. Lasers, microdermabrasion, and injectables like Botox and Filler can be scary if you don't know what to expect. We understand that each client is an individual, and has a different threshold for discomfort or pain. We regard client safety as our biggest priority, and we strive to make your time with us anxiety-free. Most of our procedures have little or no down-time, and pain is subjective.
As a pediatrician, parents often ask me how they can strengthen their children’s immune systems, especially this time of year when it feels like kids are always sick. Unfortunately, there is not a single supplement that can do this, though many certainly claim to. Reassuringly, there are simple things that you can do to prepare your child’s immune system for the next virus or bacteria that they encounter.
Some of the lasers have the feel of a rubber band being snapped against the skin, others create heat like a sunburn, or can feel tingly or prickly. In addition, when using lasers, eye shields or goggles are used to protect the eyes from the laser flash.
• Get Vaccinated: Follow the CDC’s recommendations, get them all, and get them on time. The CDC is the authority on vaccination and their recommendations are based on highquality research. Vaccines allow your child’s immune system to fight off potentially life-threatening infections.
With injectables such as Botox, Juvederm, or Voluma, come with the "pinch" of the needle being inserted. However, the needles are very fine, so pain is minimal. After the injection, the site can feel achy or swollen, which is perfectly normal. Ice packs can be used to calm the skin and prevent bruising. Our experienced professional staff will take all necessary precautions for your safety and comfort, and to give you the results you want. We aim to improve color, tone, and texture to give you the youthful, glowing skin you want! Call us at 530.342.2672 to make an appointment. DERM BAR MED-SPA 85 Declaration Dr. Suite 100 Chico, CA 95973 530.342.2672
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YOUR HEALTH
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• Get Plenty Of Rest: Most children (aside from the very young) should get at least eight to ten hours of sleep nightly. Getting sufficient sleep dramatically decreases your child’s risk of coming down with an illness. • Eat Healthy: Focus on whole foodsfruits, veggies, and healthy fats. Avoid foods that are processed, packaged, and deep fried. • Get Sunshine: The magic ingredient here is vitamin D. Some studies have shown that vitamin D helps your body’s normal infection-fighting abilities. • Stay Active: Moderation is key with exercise and studies show that people who get moderate exercise most days
tend to get sick less often and with less severe symptoms. • Reduce Your Stress: Find ways to get out in nature, meditate, do yoga, or dance- whatever works for your child. Stress hormones suppress their immune systems and make them prone to getting sick. • Stop Smoking: Even exposure to second-hand smoke can compromise your child’s ability to fight infections. Plus, when kids see parents quit, they’re less likely to pick up the habit themselves. • Consider Good Bacteria: Some studies have shown beneficial effects of prebiotics and probiotics, so grab a cup of probiotic-containing yogurt at your next trip to the grocery store. • Wash Your Hands: While it may not necessarily boost their immune systems, it will decrease their exposure to viruses and bacteria. • Get vaccinated: This is worth repeating and includes the annual flu vaccine.
HEALTH ADVICE
VIA
DR.SHEEVAUN KHAKI
Dr. Khaki is an academic general pediatrician who is particularly interested in the areas of preventative care in pediatric medicine. She graduated from California State University, Chico in 2007 and received her medical degree from Wake Forest University in Winston-Salem, NC. After completing her pediatric residency at Oregon Health and Science University in Portland, OR, Dr. Khaki joined the faculty where she has been an assistant professor for the past five years.
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WRITTEN BY SHELLY BRANDON
BEAUTY Q&A HAIR TRENDS OF 2020
2020 is here and it’s flying by! We see new trends every year in the hair world and I love what the start of this decade is showing.
Short. Sleek. Bob. It’s nothing new but instead of mid length lobs, we’re seeing people really take the plunge in going just a little shorter. Wearing it straight to show off the length of the jawline.
Shaggy Baby. Whether its curtain bangs or a full shag cut, this style is coming back in full force. It’s a vintage style with lots of layering but most importantly texture. Keeping the length but getting lots of movement and volume are key to this fun style!
Embrace that Curl Girl. Let it grow, get it big. I love seeing people embrace their natural hair and really letting it do its thing. The key to this is finding what products work for you. Keep the hair conditioned and moisturized so your curl can flourish while taking the frizz. You girls with curls ever considered bangs? Well maybe you should, it’s something we are seeing a lot of.
Make it Pop. Blended low maintenance with natural looking balayage looks are here to stay. And should be! But don’t shy away from adding in bold pops either. Putting in 16
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thicker ribbon, like pieces of caramel on a dark brunette or bolder blonde pieces throughout lighter hair, will show beautiful contrasted dimension and richness.
Warm is the New Cool. Ok that doesn’t make sense but here’s what I mean. We’ve been chasing the silver, gray, white, cool toned hair for so long that ‘warmth’ in your hair seems like a big ‘no no!’ So not the case ladies, and for some of you, it may be for the best. Instead of chasing a tone that may not compliment your skin tone or stretches your hair so far that it’s no longer healthy, go with the natural undertones and embrace a beautiful rich warm color. There will always be new trends and a desire for something fresh and new. Consider these factors when you go to switch it up: • Face shape and skin tone. • Natural texture and thickness. • What kind of daily maintenance/ hair routine you want to have or are willing to commit to. • Bangs are never the answer to your problems (haha).
BEAUTY ADVICE
VIA
BRITTNEY RITCHIE
Brittney is a Chico local doing hair at Two22 salon. Her two most recommended products to have on hand would be a leave-in conditioner and dry shampoo. Follow Brittney on IG @brittney_ritchie_hair
medicare covers a test for the
Coronavirus From CMS: You may be hearing about the coronavirus
(officially called 2019-novel coronavirus or COVID-19) in the news. While there isn’t a vaccine yet, Medicare is still here to help. Medicare Part B (Medical Insurance) covers a test to see if you have coronavirus. This test is covered when your doctor or other health care provider orders it, if you got the test on or after February 4, 2020. https://www.medicare.gov/coverage/coronavirus-test.
From NCOA: Get tips for protecting yourself at https:// www.ncoa.org/blog/coronavirus-what-older-adults-need-toknow/ and don’t forget it’s also flu season! It’s not too late to get an annual flu shot (also covered by Medicare).
Why create a MyMedicare.gov account? • Manage personal information • Check enrollment status • Pay Medicare premiums • View Medicare claims • Improved ability to get assistance for prescription drug coverage choices For additional information contact HICAP at (530) 898-6716. "This project was supported, in part by grant number 90SAPG0052-02-01 from the U.S. Administration for Community Living, Department of Health and Human Services, Washington, D.C. 20201. Grantees undertaking projects under government sponsorship are encouraged to express freely their findings and conclusions. Points of view or opinions do not, therefore, necessarily represent official Administration for Community Living policy." 17
3. Get outside. Give your mind something that relaxes your midbrain. 5, 4, 3, 2, 1 exercise. The first step encourages those suffering in a moment of anxiety to look around at their surroundings and identify five things they can see. Next, identify four things you can hear, three things you can feel, then two things you can smell. And finally, one thing you can taste. 4. Limit news and social media. Not every moment must be monitored, especially for kids. 5. Talk to a professional. Ask for help. If this applies, most therapists are available via teletherapy platforms.
FINDING MEANING & DIRECTION IN
Existential Isolation Humans are super-social beings. Everything we think, feel, and do is influenced by our social experiences, and currently by social and political media. We crave connection and have been habituated to be culturally and socially relevant. Our relationships and social experiences shape us and define us as a culture—as human beings. As the number of diagnosed Covid-19 (CoV-2) cases continues to increase, anxiety related to the outbreak and social isolation may surface. Coronavirus anxiety can be managed effectively, with patience, even when the deepest and most profound parts of our human experience are challenged. Irving Yalom made a distinction between 3-types of isolation: Intrapersonal, Interpersonal, and Existential (1980). Interpersonal isolation refers to a type of isolation that is due to a way of being in relationships which is not satisfying and needs emotional isolation. Intrapersonal isolation is the kind loneliness that occurs from being and/or feeling separate. Existential isolation is part of the limitation of being human. The CoV-2 pandemic is just this—an existential crisis, a limitation of being human. Recognizing this limitation encourages us to be more present and be more deeply related. It does not offer platitudes to ease the burden of life, but rather views direct human experience as profoundly important. 18
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If you are feeling a looming sense of existential isolation or panic, you are not alone. In past articles, I have written about stress management and trauma. Our brains naturally want to protect us from imminent threat. The “flight, fight, freeze” response can help to make immediate decisions. Regretfully, our brains don’t always have the ability to make the distinctions between daily stress of life, work, social isolation, CoV-2, or imminent threat of stampede! This may be exacerbated by a sense of feeling helpless. And this is normal—there is nothing worse than feeling helpless and isolated—we are social beings. So how can we get ourselves grounded, neutral, and calm? Here are a few tips that may help to manage Co-V2 anxiety, reduce existential isolation, and feel more in control: 1. Know what you have control over. Social distancing, washing hands, having compassion for yourself and others. 2. Continue to foster personal relationships, even if virtual. “The currency of relationships is time” and informal personal sharing can still happen via virtual dates (Google Hangouts, FaceTime, ZOOM). Most folks adjust quickly to the new platforms.
6. Do things that foster joyfulness and connection. Walk the dog, complete a home project, watch virtual movies with distant family and friends. This is a time for moments of creating more joy. 7. Create a schedule. Meals, tasks, work, school schedules. We are creatures of habit and respond well to structure and consistency. Get up and create a reasonable plan for yourself and your family. You’ll be surprised at the difference this makes in daily life, your brain and your body! 8. Reflect and remind yourself of your life’s purpose. This may be an opportunity to get back to yourself and prioritize what is important. Perhaps a spiritual practice, self-care, community cause, or a splintered relationship can be repaired. 9. Remember that we will get through this! Don’t underestimate the resiliency of human beings. Existential isolation takes the realities of the human condition with extreme seriousness. But if honest, one may discover personal meaning, forge courage and find hope even in the emptiest moments of human experience.
HEALTH ADVICE
VIA
LANCE FERRIS
Lance Ferris is a licensed and certified Brainspotting therapist, believing that change happens when people are given the guidance they need to draw on their own strengths and realize their potential to live fulfilling, happy lives. Contact Lance at 530.592.7847 or lanceferrislcsw@gmail.com.
Disney+ For All The new streaming service Disney+ has opened up a world of content for both kids and adults to watch! From the Classics to newly released hits there is something on there for everyone. Below is a list of shows that are perfect for kids and adults to enjoy together:
Alice in Wonderland (1951) Meet Alice and head into the world of Wonderland.
The Incredibles (2004) A family of superheroes balancing the act of saving the world and blending into everyday life.
Frozen ii (2019) This movie just hit Disney+ mid March! If the original Frozen was to your liking follow Elsa on yet another magical journey.
Remember the Titans (2002) A feel good sports movie that shows the difficulty of uniting an integrated football team in Virgina in the 1970s.
The Sound of Music (1965) Meet the Von Trapp family and the many obstacles they have to overcome to gain their freedom.
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WRITTEN BY BRIAN LUONG PHOTOS BY MICHELLE CAMY
THE KEY To A Good Night’s Sleep
Every night, as we get ready for a good night’s rest, our bodies and minds begin to quiet down along with the darkness of the night. For many, sleep can come easy, and the ability to pass out on the morning bus ride to work can be taken for granted. For others, sleep is difficult for a number of reasons. At Innovative Sleep Centers (ISC), trained neurologists and sleep specialists are able to identify what issues may prevent you from getting the quantity and quality of sleep you deserve. ISC has been open since 2014 and is led by Dr. Mehrdad Razavi, the center’s Medical Director, who has over 25 years of experience in neurology and 15 years in the field of sleep medicine. Dr. Razavi and his team see patients with sleep disorders such as sleep apnea and insomnia. The three centers in California are located in Chico, Yuba City, and Redding along with three additional centers in the state of Washington. At ISC, Dr. Razavi and his team offer a variety of services, including consultations and treatment options that can be done in-lab or at home. They also offer CPAP and other advanced PAP therapies as well as alternatives options. Their team looks at an individual’s sleep architecture and specifically focuses on the three main factors when
it comes to sleep: breathing, movement, and mind. Overnight, muscle movements, breathing, and brain waves are all monitored in order to create a customized plan for each individual to achieve optimal sleep. ISC also offers Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia (CBT-I) for those whose anxiety or depression keeps them up at night. One of the biggest issues this generation faces when it comes to sleep is how much we (don’t) value it. “We primarily look for external accomplishment or look, and not internal health. We don't view our own body as the ultimate treasure that nature gave us. We need to value it, it's sacred,” Mehrdad emphasized. By valuing sleep, we allow our bodies to reap all of the benefits that come along with it. One of the most important things our brain does while we sleep is an action called “active forgetting,” the process of getting rid of information that is not necessary for day to day functions. Otherwise, our brains would be overloaded with unimportant information. Not to mention that during our sleep, every part of the body is recovering physically, mentally, and emotionally, that is, being cleansed-purified. “Just like when we go out and prepare our body for races and workouts, it's the same thing at night. We need to prepare for sleep,” Dr. Razavi said. This preparation includes practicing activities that help align the body with the universe such as yoga, meditation, or reading. Technology should be avoided at least an hour before bed, and creating a dark and cool environment helps ease the body into a natural sleep cycle. Turning off lights and removing sound also helps send signals to the brain that it’s time for bed, making the transition from being awake to sleeping much easier. Getting a good night’s rest is essential in order to maintain a healthy and happy body and mind. For those struggling with getting a good night’s rest, visit Innovative Sleep Centers (ISC) to get the sleep your body deserves. TO GET A BETTER NIGHT'S SLEEP VISIT INNOVATIVE SLEEP CENTERS AT 35 JAN COURT #35 IN CHICO OR CALL 530.899.8853.
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How to Survive The Emotional Stress of a Market Freefall What a month it’s been. By now, fears of a Pandemic from CoronaVirus are sweeping the globe and impacting travel, social gatherings, and markets. Stocks are down roughly 20% from their highs with oil/ airlines/cruises own far more. We know market pullbacks are a normal occurrence—indeed, there wouldn’t be rewards without risk. During these steep drops, it’s normal to feel fear, but not ok to act on it. Below is perspective on what investors should be focusing on right now: • If you have a goals-based portfolio, the investment strategy should account for seasons like this. If you don’t need the money in the next five years, you should be less worried about day to day drops. If you do need the money, living on the shorter term assets like bonds is a prudent strategy. Unless yours goals have changed, your investments probably shouldn’t either. • Market drops are a normal occurrence every year. However, most following years are met with gains for the patient investor. Markets have recovered from every bear market in the past. • While it’s tempting to sell everything and “wait for the dust to settle”, missing even a couple rebound days can permanently impair your long term returns. Besides, markets usually rebound long before headlines do. No one will ring a bell when the market is done dropping. Timing the market is next to impossible.
BY RENEE MICHEL, MBA, AND JOE SWEENEY, CFP ®, FINANCIAL ADVISORS AT SWEENEY & MICHEL, LLC
• Income investing just got riskier. With bond yields dropping, stocks have little competition from “safe” assets. The days of selling stocks to buy 4–5% bonds appear to be behind us. Investors needing income won’t find much of it from bonds and money market funds. It’s rare, but stocks now have a higher current yield and a higher expected return. • While markets are out of our control, it’s best to focus on things we can. Saving more, adjusting your asset allocation, or spending less until things normalize. • We’re all in this for the long run. If you’re young, you should be enjoying pullbacks as opportunities to buy. Lower prices make for better entry points. Even if you’re retired, you probably still have a long term investment horizon. There’s a 75% chance a couple at 65 will see one spouse live for another 20 years. Now may be a good time to review your investment strategy to make sure it’s aligned with your goals. Markets can be scary, but what’s important isn’t where they’ll be tomorrow. It’s where they’ll be over the next 5,10, 20 years when you’re living on the income. As always, reach out with any questions. If you’d like to schedule an appointment with us, call 530.487.1777 or go online at Sweeneymichel.com.
Renée Michel, MBA and Joe Sweeney, CFP® | 196 Cohasset Road, Suite 100, Chico CA 95926 (530) 487-1777 | renee@sweeneymichel.com | joe@sweeneymichel.com | www.sweeneymichel.com Advisory services also offered through Sweeney & Michel, LLC, a registered investment adviser. Advisory services are only offered to clients or prospective clients where Sweeney & Michel, LLC and its representatives are properly licensed or exempt from licensure. Past performance is no guarantee of future returns. Investing involves risk and possible loss of principal capital. No advice may be rendered by Sweeney & Michel, LLC unless a client service agreement is in place.
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On a Mission to Provide State-of-the-Art
CANCER
TREATMENT If you need cancer treatment in the North State, Valor Oncology has you covered. Dr. Harry Lomas and Dr. Erik Stickney opened Valor Oncology in February with a mission to provide rapid access to state-of- the-art cancer treatment. Dr. Lomas and Dr. Stickney deliver precise and personalized radiotherapy which is essential for better patient outcomes.
Both doctors have years of experience working with cancer patients as well as medical experience in the military. Harry served as an Army Ranger, Green Beret, and Flight Surgeon, with multiple combat deployments with Special Operations Forces. He also served as a 911 Rescue Worker and is currently serving in the California Army National Guard as a Flight Surgeon. Erik served as the Chief of Radiation Oncology at Tripler Army Medical Center, in Hawaii, and as a Brigade Surgeon with the 101st Airborne Division with combat service in Afghanistan. Harry and Erik opened Valor Oncology to improve access to advanced cancer treatment in Butte County and surrounding areas in the North State. In many cases, patients find themselves waiting multiple weeks for a work-up and can be anxious about next steps and treatment options. “We can sit down and walk the patient through the process,” Erik explained. “We see you right away, which can expedite work-up and relieve anxiety about a 24
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WRITTEN BY ALEX GRANT PHOTOS BY MICHELLE CAMY
The Center has a new Elekta Versa HD linear accelerator which provides highly accurate treatment delivery allowing physicians to focus high doses to small targets with fewer side effects. With this advanced technology, Valor Oncology provides the most advanced radiation treatments including Stereotactic Radiosurgery for intracranial tumors and Stereotactic Body Radiotherapy for treatments within the body like Prostate, Lung, Liver, or Pancreas Cancers. These techniques allow for sub-millimeter precision and can treat cancer over short treatment courses. These techniques may allow patients to avoid surgery, while improving outcomes compared to traditional radiotherapy treatment. new cancer diagnosis.” Harry added, “We pride ourselves on improving access to cutting-edge cancer treatment while being a resource for patients as they navigate through a difficult time.” Both doctors take a great deal of pride in their military backgrounds and understand their combat experience helps Valor Oncology operate with a culture of teamwork and safety. “We’re like a special operations team. Our clinic staff focuses on safety, transparency, and accountability for our patients,” Harry explained. “We understand the anxiety a new cancer diagnosis brings. We focus on the individual needs and concerns of our patients. We discuss different treatment options step by step so they can make informed decisions about their care. We want to make sure that our patients understand, plan and prepare for the treatment that is best for them.” Valor Oncology serves as a resource for patients and can refer them to Academic Cancer Centers when appropriate.
“We connect with other specialists in places like UCSF, UC Davis, and Stanford, to give prompt access for second opinions or enrollment into clinical trials if needed. We want to offer the best treatment options available, and we will point the patient in the right direction,” Erik described. “We help streamline the process so patients can get the appropriate workup and treatment.” Many patients worry about the cost of advanced cancer treatment, but Valor Oncology actually provides more affordable services than most public hospitals. They accept all insurance plans, provide financial counseling services, and are happy to discuss payment plans with any patient. They are proud to offer treatment for VA patients and are in the process of getting approval to serve Medi-Cal patients. Both doctors and their staff believe, “We treat patients the way we would want our family treated.” FOR MORE INFORMATION, GIVE VALOR ONCOLOGY A CALL AT 530.691.5920 OR VISIT THEIR WEBSITE, VALOR.ORG.
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M O V I N G F O R WA R D I N L I F E
After Losing A Limb “You are not alone,” is the slogan of the Amputee Outreach nonprofit Shelly Baxter-Wetmore started two years ago. As someone who recently went through an amputation, Shelly knows the struggle of life after losing her right leg.
Shelly now works with five Butte County hospitals: Enloe, St. Elizabeth, Oroville, Shasta Medical Center, and Sutter Health in Yuba City. She wants to branch out to as many locations as possible as data shows that there’s over 185,000 new amputations in the U.S. each year. Shelly needs as much help as she can get financially as she’s mostly used her own resources thus far.
Andrew Menesini, who lost his left leg in a motorcycle accident in January of 2019, is now volunteering his time for Amputee Outreach. He said Shelly’s sense of humor and moral support helped him look positively at life ahead of him. His first six months after the accident were extremely challenging both physically and mentally. “You think your life is over and a high percentage of amputees have depression or anxiety after the incident,” Andrew explained. “It’s something you can get through, but it takes will power and support but not everybody has that.” Andrew went through months of rehabilitation to get where he is today.
Andrew, a 2015 business graduate of Chico State, wants to let young amputees around his age know that there’s still a lot to live for. “There’s still a lot of life to go after; the family, kids, and the white picket fence. You’re still allowed to go after that and being an amputee shouldn’t stop you from moving forward in life,” Andrew shared. The Amputee Outreach group meets every 3rd Thursday of each month from 1:00–2:00 p.m. at Kalico Kitchen on the Esplanade. In April, however, they will have speakers, presentations, and will meet at the Enloe Rehabilitation Hospital. For those interested in donating or finding out more information on Amputee Outreach, you can visit their new website at MyAmputeeOutreach.org or you can contact Shelly directly either via phone at 530.343.0005 or email at myamputeeoutreach@outlook.com.
WRITTEN BY ALEX GRANT PHOTOS BY JENNY SKIBO
April is Limb Loss Awareness month, but for Shelly and other amputees, every month is a battle. After learning this struggle herself, Shelly, a retired business owner, decided to create Amputee Outreach as a nonprofit option with the goal of helping others put in her position. “I didn’t want anyone else to go through this alone. It was really scary, it was really lonely, and I thought I wasn’t going to be of use to anybody anymore,” Shelly described.
Shelly stressed that this is an issue also deeply affecting caregivers, family, and close friends. “I spend at least 50 percent, if not more, of my time with caregivers,” Shelly explained. “I can’t guarantee them an outcome, but I can start to point the needle toward the positive side because there is still a whole lot that you can do. Nothing is going to be the same, but you can have a really good life.”
He recalled counting his steps for the first three months and eventually getting up to half a mile a day. Now Andrew is almost at the five-mile daily mark, but he still has goals of reaching seven and ten miles a day. This feat is extremely difficult for an amputee as it takes much more oxygen to walk with a prosthetic leg that it would with a regular leg. Andrew estimates that he uses 60% more energy walking than someone without an amputation.
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Netflix & Quarantine Looking for a new binge worthy show? We have you covered. With social
into the world of New York City’s 1960s advertising. From the highs
distancing playing a key role in our new day to day lives, it’s the perfect
and lows of advertising you’ll see how driven (or mad) these men are.
time to catch up on your Netflix list and maybe add a show or two to it. Now get to watching...
The Ballad of Buster Scruggs The Cohen brothers follow the adventures of outlaws and settlers on the American frontier. We classify this as a show because it's divided into several individual chapters that will make you feel every emotion.
Cheers “Sometimes you want to go, where everybody knows your name.” Experience the life of regulars at this Boston Bar. This is one of the few TV sitcoms that you’ll actually watch the introduction each time and sing along. “Wouldn’t you like to get away?”
Love is Blind Singles enter into dating pods hoping to find the love of their life and find out if love is truly blind. If reality TV is your thing, this show is right up your alley.
Mad Men Donald Draper. You’ve probably heard of him, now it’s time to plunge
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Messiah Follow the journey of the one they call the al-Masih. Not a believer? You might be swayed.
Shameless Meet the Gallaghers. This feisty, cringe worthy, hilarious family pushes each episode to the limit. Once you think this family couldn’t go anything further they surprise you.
The Walking Dead With 9 seasons available to watch this show will keep you going for a while! The Walking Dead focuses on the worldwide zombie apocalypse and the many trying to survive it and each other. Don’t get too attached to any one character, this show will keep you on your toes.
The Witcher The Witcher dives into the legend of Geralt of Rivia and princess Ciri who are linked together through destiny. Each episode will keep you wanting to know more about Geralt of Rivia.
Designer Secrets FOR
Shopping Success
Have you ever wondered where interior designers shop and how they create those curated and styled spaces? I’m sure it varies for every designer, but I’m going to share some of my secrets for creating one of a kind and unique home styling. So, whether you’re on a fixed budget or have a lot to spend, you’ll be able to take away a tip or two for shopping at my favorite spots. My approach when designing a space is multifaceted. I’m looking at budget, style, function, and durability. All of these criteria require different choices and options. Let’s start with budget, since most people start and end here. It’s a scary word, but necessary to think about. Are you low budget, mid, or high? This affects where you shop. I like IKEA and TARGET for a low budget. They have some fun designs that don’t break the bank. The issue here tends to be durability, but their choices can work for a time and look cute doing it. I personally love their brand Opalhouse, by designer Dawn LeBaile. For mid budget, I like to shop CB2, and World Market. They have great designs that are interesting and aren’t hugely expensive. But, make sure you’re also thinking about durability when shopping here. It can be hit and miss. For example, our kitchen table is from World Market and we’ve had it for over 15 years. But we also bought a side chair from them last year that we returned because the fabric started to pull within a month. Be smart here. For mid to higher budgets, look to Article, West Elm, HD Buttercup, and Blu Dot. Here you can breathe a little sigh and be
confident that the slightly higher price point, usually means more quality. These places offer it all, style, function, durability, and if you shop their sales or outlets, they can fit most budgets. West Elm is honestly one of my favorite places because it checks all my proverbial boxes. Lastly, for luxe go to Restoration Hardware or Design within Reach, I rarely go this route because these options tend to out price many designs and lend to a shortage in budget when it comes to the end styling details like pillows and accessories. I always recommend buying better quality when it comes to main furniture pieces. These are important to be long lasting, and they get most of the use and abuse. However, you can think less expensive when shopping for accessories. I honestly love to bargain shop these items. I even look in thrift stores for baskets and shelf accessories, books for staging shelves, and even vintage art. One great find for pillow covers is Woven Nook. They have really cute and super affordable options. So, don’t go telling all your friends all my secrets. They may buy up all the good stuff before you and I can get there. (wink, wink) And I definitely can’t tell you my favorite Thrift Stores, although it’s not hard to guess. Happy shopping!
DESIGN ADVICE
VIA
NIKOLE ENNS
Nikole Enns is an Interior Designer in Chico and the owner of Iko Design. Her scope of work includes residential remodels, new construction, and also commercial buildings. Nikole loves being able to work on a project from start to finish and help her clients see all of their design dreams come true. 29
Workplace substance abuse affects all businesses, regardless of size or industry. Of the 12.3 million American adults who are current illicit drug users, 9.4 million, 77 percent, are employed. Of all drug users, 68.9% are employed and active in the workplace, according to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Administration. Additionally, 1/3 of all employees are aware of illegal sales of drugs in their workplace, according to the Tennessee Department of Labor & Workforce Development. Data shows that employee drug use is the highest it has been in 12 years. Call HRiQ at 530.680.4747 to increase awareness and create a substance free environment. HRIQ–HUMAN RESOURCES + PAYROLL 236 Broadway Suite #B,Chico, CA 95928 Shelby@upyourhriq.com | Upyourhriq.com 530.680.4747
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I am comprised of inspiration from my students, reading and growing their empathy; manifesting FAV O R I T E T H I N G A B O U T T H E T E AC H I N G P R O F E S S I O N
a different & better future. I am comprised of silliness with impromptu dance moves & songs. UNIQUE SKILL I BRING TO THE CLASSROOM
I am comprised of the words of Willie Wonka. VIA SHAKESPEARE
I am comprised of “Where is fancy bred, in the MOTTO
heart or in the head?" My life is composed of being a mother, a teacher, a friend, an artist; Love. W H AT I A M M O S T P R O U D O F
What are you comprised of? LEISL JONES Teacher and Librarian for Chico’s Junior High Schools
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An Elongated Master Bath After nearly three decades living in the Bay area, Wendy Phillips moved back to her hometown of Chico with her son, Ronan. Since she grew up in the quaint city of trees, the decision to move back came with the caveat of lots of family—including siblings, cousins, aunts and uncles. In March of 2019, Wendy purchased her first ever house though she did not move in for six months in order to make some necessary changes. With willing helpers, new flooring and trim were installed throughout the house. The change was quite dramatic, but the kitchen and two bathrooms were screaming for help. Wendy’s mom, an avid Upgraded Living magazine reader, had discovered New Again Kitchen Remodeling and knew about Ric Powers, the in-house designer. They went to the Home & Garden Show at the fairgrounds and visited New Again’s booth. Shortly after, Ric came to Wendy’s house, looked the place over, and took some measurements. He referred to the house’s architecture as MidCONNECT
Century Modern and kept that in mind while putting together the interior design. Wendy noted that “Ric used our original design while making everything fit to scale and adding necessary touches from his vast experience.” The plan included the kitchen and both bathrooms. Wendy was delighted with Ric’s ideas and trusted the reputation New Again Kitchen Remodeling had earned and agreed for them to do the work. Ric’s crew proved to be amazing and the kitchen and middle bathroom turned out great. However, the difference in the master bath was simply stunning. The house was built in 1953, a time where most baths were barely big enough to even turn around. The tiny, cramped bath in this house was no exception. The result of this new master bath reflected from Ric’s design, including, as Wendy puts it, “A cool extra feature.” Through an earlier remodel, the original master bathroom had become surrounded by the addition of a family room. This left that room with an awkward extra space in one corner. Ric saw the opportunity to steal this square footage to more than double the original bath, thus taking a small 6 x 8 foot bathroom and quadrupling the size. This required the demolition of two walls with the re-framing enabling the new design to reveal a long and elegant master bathroom. This included the installation of an equally long
and elegant vanity featuring a White Shaker cabinet with an Alpha gray quartz countertop. The door’s hardware is by Jeffrey Alexander. Perhaps the crown jewel is the stunning bathtub surrounded by Bedrosian Winter Blanco tile. Just inside the doorway, to the left is the absolute gem of the remodeled master bath, the “cool extra feature.” Ric’s design paved the way for also including a walk-in closet with room for shelving and hanging clothes. Wendy is so thrilled to have this closet and never saw the potential for one, making Ric a genius in her eyes. She is so delighted with everything about New Again Kitchen Remodeling. The crew was both friendly and neat and Wendy was pleased with how the sheetrock, plumbing, and lighting enhanced the cabinet, countertop, and tile. Overall, she most definitely would recommend to anyone to call Ric and his crew.
WRITTEN BY KEVIN DOLAN PHOTOS BY MICHELLE CAMY
N E W AGA I N K I TC H E N REMODELING PRESENTS HOUSE CALL:
New Again Kitchen Remodeling continues to set the standard for kitchen and bathroom renovations with this dual renovation of kitchen and master bath. If you’re interested in starting a home improvement project and are looking for a designer who listens to you and a company that works with you and your schedule, call New Again Kitchen Remodeling at 530.899.2888 or stop by their showroom at 2502 Park Avenue in Chico.
NEW AGAIN KITCHEN REMODELING | 2502 PARK AVE, CHICO, CALIFORNIA 95928 | 530.899.2888
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WRITTEN BY STACY PLANCE
DON'T THROW THE SHELLS
AWAY Eggshells seem to be the perfect free, natural, and biodegradable addition to your gardening needs. They can act as a great source of calcium and other minerals for your garden while also helping repeal unwanted creature such as snails, slugs, and deer. But let’s talk about the most important role they can have in your first step to creating your garden, acting as the perfect size seed starter. The eggshells and carton only need a small windowsill, so this is a great option for those wanting to start a few herbs or flowers indoors but find themselves with limited space. Let’s get started on our eggshell seed planter journey together by figuring out what we will need to begin. We know we need eggs and eggs come in a carton, so let’s save both of those items. In addition to these two things, we will need seed starting soil, a small spoon, a spray bottle, and an awl or wide sharp needle. When buying soil, it is good to make sure you get seed starting soil because this lighter soil will allow the root system to grow freely, ensuring your plant will grow healthy and strong. 34
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Before we crack any eggs, let’s make sure we know how to break them in order to create the ideal size vessel. It is suggested that we use a sharp knife to slice off the narrower end of the egg, but as long as we have at least half of the shell intact I think we will be alright. After making a delicious breakfast with the yummy part of the eggs, we need to make sure that the eggshells are completely clean inside. You should rinse them well; maybe even boil the shells to ensure that you have gotten everything out. Remember, a clean shell won’t be a stinky shell. Once the eggshells have dried, use your awl to carefully poke a hole in the bottom of the eggshell in order to create drainage. Next we place the eggshells back in the carton, spray gently with water and use the small spoon to scoop the soil into the shells. Shake the eggshells to even out the soil, and then plant the seeds according to the specific care instructions on the package. Spritz again with your spray bottle and then place your carton in the sunniest south-facing window in the warmest room in your house. Water your plants accordingly; making sure the soil is moist but not soaked. After your sprouts have grown big enough to transfer, snip the smallest seedlings so the largest seedling can grow. Gently crack the bottom of the eggshell and place the planter into the hole. The eggshell will biodegrade and provide the proper nourishment your little seedling will need in order to grow into a big strong plant. Happy planting!
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ARTICLE PROVIDED BY CALIBER HOME LOANS
Don’t Let the Market Fool You In today’s ever changing mortgage rate environment, to measure your risk tolerance it’s important for consumers to understand the difference between locking or floating a loan, including the difference a day can make. With all the access to information and the bombardment of mortgage rate advertising, it can be difficult for consumers to make decisions. It’s smart for consumers to do their due diligence in researching mortgage rates in an effort to obtain a good deal. However, the saying “you get what you pay for” rings true in this process. So, your first step is to be sure you are working with a reputable and knowledgeable mortgage company. While shopping for mortgages and rates, understand all mortgage rate quotes are subject to key parameters, including FICO scores, occupancy, loan to value, property type, purchase vs cash-out, refinance, and loan terms. If you are serious about proceeding with a mortgage, it’s important to apply formally with a lender so they can properly vet out the specifics, not only to offer a sound rate quote but also to assess your qualification for a mortgage. The million dollar question is when do you lock or float your rate? When faced with this decision, there are only three guarantees. They will go up, go down, or stay the same. There are several analytics and prognosticators most lenders follow to provide valuable guidance. The reality is, at times, the market has fooled everyone 38
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by changing the interest rate quote within minutes. When deciding to lock or float, it’s important to understand that you are picking a price similar to purchasing a stock. If you lock a 3.5% Rate, then you are protected from any escalation. If you do not lock, you are floating your rate and subject to market fluctuation. Set clear expectations with your lender to discuss your intentions and avoid any surprises. This is a big decision and nobody has a crystal ball to predict with certainty so understand the risk and reward. The potential change in rate while floating should be calculated in (+/-) impact to your monthly payment to measure your risk tolerance. For example, if you called your financial advisor and executed at trade to buy Apple stock at $240 per share, you’ve set your price. If the stock jumps to $250, you’d look like a genius. On the flip side, if it drops to $230, you don’t get to undo your price of $240 and get the lower price. The same goes for mortgage rates, it’s a 2-way street. If you lock-in at 3.5% and rates move up to 3.75%, you are protected. If they move down to 3.25%, you are still locked-in at the 3.5% price. As you can see it’s a slippery slope when making the lock or float decision and hindsight will always be 20/20. However, this can all be summed up in the familiar phrase, “a bird in the hand is worth two in the bush.” MAKE THE SLIPPERY SLOPE LOOK LIKE SOLID GROUND BY CALLING CALIBER HOME LOANS AT 530.781.1700.
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WRITTEN BY BRIAN LUONG
THE
QUEEN OF FRUITS
No, mangosteen does not taste like mangoes. In fact, despite the similarity in naming, the taste of mangosteen is quite unique itself. The purple fruit is not actually harvested for its flesh, but rather the delicious white fruit pods inside. Mangosteen pods are sweet and tangy, and extremely juicy, and its taste lies somewhere between a peach and lychee fruit. Be careful when cutting through a mangosteen in order not to damage the pods inside, the only edible part of the fruit. Mangosteens, nicknamed the “Queen of Fruits,” are believed to have originated from the Sunda Islands in Indonesia. Accounts of the fruit being harvested date back to as early as the 1800s, when there was a rumour that Queen Victoria would grant knighthood to any soldier who could bring her a fresh mangosteen, as the fruit doesn’t ripen after it’s picked and expires faster than most other fruits. Mangosteens are extremely hard to grow within the United States, but thrive in tropical conditions. Many countries have tried to grow the fruit without success due to the fruit’s picky growing conditions. The mangosteen needs the warm tropical weather, a certain level of elevation, and lots of space in order to thrive. Seeds should be planted at least 30–45 feet apart, and the trees themselves can grow anywhere from 20–80 feet tall. Growing mangosteen trees is definitely a slow process, with the seeds 40
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reaching roughly 12 inches after two years of growth. However, it may take up to 10–20 years until the tree is ready to bear fruit. Mangosteens are delicious on their own, however, because of its unique flavor, it is used in a variety of products including jams and jellies. Although the fresh fruit itself may be hard to find in your regular supermarkets, Asian supermarkets are likely to have mangosteens along with a variety of other tropical fruits. Mangosteens are commonly used to create juice, and are even used as an ingredient in desserts. One of the most popular uses of mangosteen is in ice cream, where the ice cream is best served with fresh fruit pods and coconut milk. Mangosteens also carry a ton of health benefits with them. One of the main benefits of mangosteens are that they have lots of antioxidants and xanthones, a unique plant compound that anti-inflammatory and anti-diabetic effects. The fruit also contains lots of fiber, a nutrient that helps the body stabilize blood sugar. Mangosteens is also a great source of Vitamin C, a vitamin that helps with maintaining a healthy immune system. Although the mangosteen may be hard to find, the fruit pods are quite a delicacy and can be enjoyed in a variety of different ways. Next time you see this magical fruit, be sure to grab some and dig inside for the delicious pods within.
PHOTO BY JENNY SKIBO
Friday New England Clam Chowder DIRECTIONS: In a soup pot: • 1 Stick Butter • 2 Onions, Diced • 1/2 Bunch Celery, Diced • 2 Carrots, Diced Saute for 1 hour stirring constantly. In another soup pot: • 3 Cups Water • 2 Red Potatoes, Diced • 6 Oz Clam Juice • 1 Tsp Salt • 1 Tsp Pepper • 1/2 Tsp Thyme • 1/2 Tsp Sage
Combine the two pots and add 2 lbs of clams without juice and let simmer. In a smaller pot make white roux: 1/3 lb of butter, melt on high whisk in 1 cup of flour then cook for 2 minutes. Slowly whish in 1.5 quarts of milke. Bring to near boil (silky) and add to soup. Add 1/2 tsp salt, 1/2 tsp pepper, and chopped parsley.
TO TRY THIS DELICIOUS RECIPE VISIT BROADWAY HEIGHTS CALIFORNIA CUISINE LOCATED AT 300 BROADWAY STREET IN CHICO.
Cook for 30 minutes or until potatoes are tender.
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Read & Quarantine How to Do Nothing by Jenny Odell "A complex, smart, and ambitious book that at first reads like a selfhelp manual, then blossoms into a wide-ranging political manifesto." –Jonah Engel Bromwich, New York Times .
The Jetsetters by Amanda Eyre Ward A novel that tells the story of a dysfunctional family, scarred, through no fault of their own. At once, heartbreaking, funny, and hopeful, this is a family you will fall in love with.
The Nightingale by Kristin Hannah
Untamed by Glennon Doyle Author of Love Warrior. Soulful and uproarious, forceful and tender, Untamed is both an intimate memoir and a galvanizing wake-up call.
Where the Crawdads Sing by Delia Owens Owen’s novel is a heartbreaking coming-of-age story, that reminds us we are forever shaped by the children we once were.
Wherever You Go, There You Are by Jon Kabat-Zinn According to the author, "Mindfulness means paying attention [to the
A respectful and absorbing page-turner. Pays homage to the extraor-
world] in a particular way: on purpose, in the present moment, and
dinary courage and endurance of French Women during World War II.
nonjudgmentally." Perfect for the world we currently reside.
Such a Fun Age by Kiley Reid A striking and surprising debut novel from an exhilarating new voice, Such a Fun Age is a page-turning and big-hearted story.
Silver Sparrow by Tayari Jones With its opening line, “My father, James Witherspoon, is a bigamist,”
When Breath Becomes AIR by Paul Kalanithi “This read is heartbreaking and beautiful, showing the too-young Dr. Kalanithi’s memoir is proof the dying are the ones who have the most to teach us about life.” –Atul Gawande
Wild by Cheryl Strayed
this novel unveils a breathtaking story about a man's deception, a
From Lost to Found on the Pacific Crest Trail is a 2012 memoir
family's complicity, and two teenage girls caught in the middle.
describing her 1,100-mile hike on the Pacific Crest Trail in 1995 as a journey of self-discovery.
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Forgot to grab a magazine? All of our previous publications can be found on issuu.com!
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Peace of Mind As we continue together through this COVID-19 epidemic, it’s important to take the time to take care of ourselves and treat our bodies with the amount of respect they deserve. Although staying inside for extended periods of time can be tough, music is an amazing tool that can make time pass by and provide a sense of normalcy in a time of crisis. Whether you enjoy your music quietly and in the background or blasting through your speakers, music is a way in which we are able to connect with ourselves and with others through the sounds produced and the stories that musicians tell. However, this can be a time to step away from music that we already know. We can use this time to discover new artists and genres that we’ve never explored before. Although it may seem easy to put on a sad playlist to match our mood, we should challenge ourselves as well to choose music that uplifts our spirits. One album that I believe does this perfectly is Mother Earth’s Plantasia, an electronic album by Mort Garson. This album is viewed as a leader in early electronic music and uses synthesizers to produce an album with funky beats and high-pitched keys. The album is extremely easy to listen to and is a perfect way to feel connected to nature and the outside world while in the peace of your own home.
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The beautiful thing about music is that we are not only listeners, but we are able to practice it ourselves. Studies have shown that practices such as music therapy have been a beneficial complementary treatment for those who struggle with anxiety or depression. Music therapy includes activities such as improvising music, performing music, or composing music. If you don’t have instruments available, there’s always the power of voice. For those who prefer the quiet side of creating music, a pen and paper will do just fine for writing out lyrics or poetry. We can also use this time now to help reorganize our own musical tastes. We all have those songs that we always skip, the songs we’ve only listened to once, and the songs that we have no idea how they even got into our phones. By clearing out our music libraries, it makes listening to music so much more enjoyable and refreshing when every song is a song we like. Take this time as well to make playlists for your friends and family spreading the joy of music to all the people you truly care about. Although we may be separated physically, music is a way in which we can all feel connected through the sounds created by the artists that we love. Through this tough time, we could all use music to help keep us feeling hopeful and provide us a positive outlook for the future ahead.
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podcast & Quarantine At the Table Pat Lencioni sharing leadership skills and advice in 20–30 min. Really great content for anyone managing people.
Freakenomics Learn new insights about ordinary life. Shared in an interesting and pragmatic way.
Pivot Covers business, technology, and politics. Leans left. Funny and informative.
Reply All A podcast about the internet & our digital world. Lots of entertaining stories about the world we live in today.
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2 20 Looking Through A Cracked Rearview Mirror
I have been on this earth for three score and seven years. Over the course of that time, I have been greatly affected by a handful of events, happenings, if you will. When I was 10 years old, I was clearly modeled by the adults around me what “greatly affected” looks and sounds like. The assasination of JFK, followed by the deaths of Martin Luther King and the President’s brother, Robert triggered it. My parents, teachers, older sisters, and seemingly the entire adult world, showed the effects in sadness, tears, and outbreaks of emotion. My first came about on April 20, 1999 when Eric Harris and Dylan Klebold stormed into Columbine High School with weapons and bombs. I did not want to watch the news reports but simply could not stop watching. The pain was real, the horrifying sequences palpable. I became afraid to go back to my campus on the Esplanade. I took a hard, long look at leaving education altogether. Pain and agony aside, I was aware of what is known as the Columbine Effect, the legacy and impact of the massacre inspiring copycat crimes. I was 46 years old, had been on high school campuses for 19 years, and suddenly became paralyzed at the thought of returning. I took a week off, talked to my closest friends and family members, and determined it would be ok to continue teaching and coaching. The fear dissipated over the years but not the nagging truth that something like this could happen anywhere. The second was that eerie morning on September 11, 2001. Our world changed. We witnessed a vulnerability surfacing like never before. It did not make me want to run and hide. It did change the way I listened and looked at our government. There is no underlying paranoia, just an understanding of why we wait in line to get inside the terminal. The third showed up early on November 8, 2018 in my front yard staring at the most ominous cloud I have ever seen. I had been hearing about this since I was in high school in the late 60’s. A fire could whip through the town of Paradise, wiping it out. And then it did. My affect here is one of wonder and awe and the amazing way people responded to every need. The Camp Fire did not tear apart a community and its neighbors, but rather strengthened an army of citizens in a single purpose.
Even more amazing is the fact that strength has not diminished, rather has kept a resounding grip on the matters of hand, as difficult as those matters can be. The “we not me” attitude in putting the pieces back together restores my sometimes tainted view of mankind. And then there is now. A world-wide event that comes with its own vocabulary. No, it is not of epidemic proportions, this is a pandemic. One the entire planet is sharing. We must quarantine ourselves in physical separation, to avoid close contact, so we can flatten the curve. We are asked to shelter in place, self isolate if necessary, and practice social distancing. It is all at once, frightening, disconcerting, uncomfortable, stressful, and a wonderful opportunity to open some wine, put the easy listening channel on Pandora, and dance. Yes, break the social distance rule completely and turn into awkward 8th graders again, performing the-hug-in-place-slow-foot-shuffle in a circle kind of dancing. It is also critically important to heed the message—stay home. Essential shopping is not the long, crowded lines on a beautiful Sunday to buy beautiful flowers to plant in your yards. It is the early hour shopping of true essentials for survival which does not include the hoarding of toilet paper. The simple obeying of the request to stay home also comes with a delightful caveat. Something dear friends and family members should have done all along. The use of FaceTime and Zoom for virtual happy hours, dinners, games, sing-a-longs, or any other way to be together by not being together. For another variation, we have the opportunity to support local restaurants by ordering a take-out dinner from them to give your kitchen a night off and eat really good food for a really good purpose. I will leave you on a couple of notes—I do not have any interest in getting COVID-19 and certainly do not want the most vulnerable to go through it either. I can only shake my head in disgust at those adults, breathing, thinking adults, who poo poo the entire thing and go about their selfish lives like this is—what is the word? Oh yeah, hoax. It is not.
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