Upgraded Living February 2019 by Upgraded Living

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FROM THE EDITOR I have long played tug o’ war with February. The kind when you are the scrawny 5th grader trying to advance the bulky 6th grade team. It

UPGRADED LIVING STAFF

begins the same way, the 2 day arrives, and if the groundhog sees nd

his shadow, we’re in for six more months of winter. No chance for

AVEED KHAKI Publisher/Owner

any tug here. Next arrives a dozen days later. The interior tug o’ war is brutal. How can I be married and not recognize my beautiful wife,

KEVIN DOLAN Editor-in-Chief

and why do I need a random day to show my love? I win this one on occasion by having a tree delivered on Arbor day. Lately, I am losing miserably to the third date, five days before the end of the month. This year, on my day of birth, I turn into an answer to a trivia game. “Get your kicks on Route…” Cannot even type the number, let alone say it. NERISSA QUINN

JESSICA DOLAN CLARENDON

Production Director

Writer

JASON CORONA

STACY PLANCE

Sales Director

Writer

KERILYNN ANDERSON

EMILY TEAGUE

Account Executive

Photographer

of this entity. Our local spotlight and Cool Kids sprung from just how

DARREN MICHELS

FRANK REBELO

athletes can commit to placing an emphasis on the student part of

Product Integration & Mobility Strategy

Photographer

Then I began editing our February issue, saw the theme—Feel the Love—and my gloom and doom disappeared. Front to back, the magazine will delight you. Even the obvious grimness of the cover story will shine brightly knowing that an organization like Butte Youth Now lands on the right side of the fight. Two companion pieces emerged from this Coalition and its impact county wide. Both of these were found on the Chico High campus, living examples of the core

student-athlete.

EMILY HUSO

For the second year, we also are featuring our selected “power couples.” The idea that couples who put themselves out there, also have a support group built right in. Our featured couples fit this bill nicely, and also have been change agents through the devastation from the Camp Fire. We celebrate each couple and are “feeling the love” for what they do for our community!

KELSEY VEITH Photographer

Writer EMILY LEBLANC Writer EMMA HOPPOUGH Writer

MICHAEL MEJIA Photographer MICHELLE CAMY Photographer

Finally, the Backpage reveals its second entry in the “No story is a straight line” theme. It revolves around Chelsea West, an ER nurse, yoga instructor, and Camp Fire survivor; whose story was told on CNN. The Backpage purposely is without pictures as words should place the image in the reader’s mind. Stripping each one down to the

CONTRIBUTORS

bare bones is no easy task. Still, I believe the stripped versions read with better intent and a clearer focus. So, having said that, we sorta cheated this month. Turn to the Table of Contents and see Chelsea in a pose, known as the ‘mermaid.’ I am not a good enough to paint that picture in your mind. On to March, not just for its madness but its promise of Spring and better weather.

AARON J. STEWART

JENNI MILLER

Estate Planning

Health

ASHLEY DEKELLIS

MIKE PECK & MAYA PRICE

Interior Design

Teacher Q&A

BUTTE HUMANE SOCIETY

NORTH STATE SYMPHONY

Community

CODY SWEET

RENEE MICHEL

Health

& JOE SWEENEY

DR. VIMALI PAUL, M.D. Skin Care

Finance SHELBY CHASE

EMMA HARRIS Ingredient of the Month

Human Resources TIFFANY CLEVELAND Beauty

Kevin Dolan Editor-in-Chief

For advertising or editorial inquiries, please contact: Upgraded Living at 530.894.8091 Sales@UpgradedLiving.com

CONTENTS FEBRUARY 2019 COMMUNITY

FOOD

10 Meet Cool Kids Ceejay Rothenberger &

50 For our benefit, the deliciously sweet

Jose Martinez, two athletes committed across the board.

and crunchy carrots abound this time of year due to the fact they thrive in cold temperatures.

20 Watch the magic unfold when football players trade their helmets and shoulder bags for academic pursuits.

ARTS

63 Our Editor-in-Chief continues the new

58 We are delighted to introduce the ‘Crucial

Backpage series called “No story is a straight line…”.

Times’ photography collective and the release of Volume II, a book dedicated to film only, no digital prints allowed.

HEALTH & BEAUTY 24 Learn the benefits of massage beyond the

60 Meet Andrew Urlie and his graceful natureinspired ceramics, a must-see the next time you visit Chico Paper company.

notion of relaxation.

26 Discover the surprising benefits of working up a sweat—Kickboxing.

28 Be ready for the 14th by knowing exactly what red lipstick is perfect for you.

HOME & GARDEN 16 Simple ways to spruce up that tired and tiny bathroom.

46 Find out the ins and outs of using eggshells as your seed starters.

50 PHOTO PROVIDED BY HEATHER SELZER

63 8

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ON THE COVER: "OUR HANDS" STATUE BY ARTIST DONNA BILLICK DESIGN BY: NERISSA QUINN PHOTO BY: MICHELLE CAMY

FEATURE 39 Meet our five nominated folks who received a head to toe makeover courtesy of numerous talented and generous local businesses.

52 Meet this year’s Power Couples and learn about their impact on our community and willing support for each other.

WRITTEN BY EMILY HUSO PHOTO BY FRANK REBELO

COOL KIDS J O S E M A R T I N E Z & C E E JAY R OT H E N B E R G E R As members of Chico High School’s Athlete Committed Program, seniors, and varsity football players, Jose Martinez and Ceejay Rothenberger have pledged to aim for high standards of physical and academic excellence, both on and off the field. “Athlete Committed is basically not going to parties, not dealing with any drugs or alcohol, showing up to class, doing your work, [and] keeping your grades up,” says Jose, who is number 35 on the team and plays defensive end and tackle. “It's just being the right person,” adds Ceejay, who is number 76 and plays right tackle. “It’s doing what would be expected of you as a football player and representing your school.” Both Jose and Ceejay signed a commitment to uphold the program’s values at the beginning of the season. As key players on the varsity football team, the Panthers, Jose and Ceejay take the Athlete Committed Program seriously, setting an example for the rest of the team. The players say that the commitment has helped them to maximize their performance, both in school and in football, and has shaped many of their core personal values. “For the football kids, it kind of gives us an idea of what to stay away from,” Ceejay says. “It gives us a pathway—a guide for what's wrong and what's right.” Based on their performance, sportsmanship, and 10

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leadership of the team, both players were awarded All League and will play in an upcoming All Star game. Although both Jose and Ceejay are very focused on football, they strive for balance between the sport and the demands of their schoolwork. Besides sports conditioning, Jose says his favorite class is math. Ceejay says his favorite is information technology. Both students will graduate this year and plan to continue their studies at Butte College, where they will play for the Roadrunners. “I'm going to continue playing football, [and] see how far I can go,” says Jose, a Chico local. Ceejay, who is originally from LA, also hopes to keep playing football. His goal is to attend Butte College for two years and possibly transfer after that. Needless to say, both will carry the core values they have gained from Athlete Committed with them wherever they the future takes them. Thanks to the program, they have developed a strong belief in the importance of leading a balanced lifestyle, a belief that will benefit them for the rest of their lives. DO YOU KNOW A LOCAL YOUTH WHO DESERVES SOME RECOGNITION? TELL US ABOUT THEM! THEY MIGHT JUST BE OUT NEXT "COOL KID". PLEASE SEND NOMINATIONS TO NERISSA QUINN AT NERISSA@UPGRADEDLIVING.COM NOMINEES MUST BE 17 OR YOUNGER.

If I weren’t a teacher, I’d be: Mike: The owner of a quaint Caribbean Resort near a beach and rainforest. Maya: A chef on the Food Network because I enjoy acting and cooking! The inspiration to teach came from: Mike: Volunteering as a camp counselor at Woodleaf Environmental camp in high school. Maya: The influential teachers I had growing up and from my amazing mom. Biggest challenge I face each day: Mike: My alarm on my phone. Maya: Celebrating and guiding the energy of 209 teenagers. Three qualities that got me where I am today: Mike: Perseverance, trust, and self-love. Maya: Patience, listening skills, and creativity. One change education needs tomorrow: Mike: Be proactive. Study successful business models from the real world and redesign. Maya: More interdisciplinary opportunities and thematic learning, emphasizing what students can actually do.

MIK

Q&A Y MA E &

Mike Peck and Maya Price are in their 12th year of marriage. The roots, like the couple itself, is connected to education. When Maya was in her first year of teaching, Mike was in Phase I student teaching. Phase I students are required to observe teachers, and Mike, somehow, ended up observing in Maya’s class. Time and urging from mutual friends, led to wedlock. Mike, a graduate of PV, is now in his 18th year at his alma mater. He has single-handedly built an entire department, known as ‘House of Blue.’ His video production classes resides in the Media Art Department 12

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where he loves the “real worldness aspect”. Maya, an English teacher, has split her tenure between Chico Junior and Senior High schools. An expert at “teaching kids,” she’s aware of her role as a reading, writing, listening and speaking teacher. It is rare not to run into Miss Price’s former students and their stories of love and devotion. Currently, during the four minute passing, you will find students hurrying into Maya’s class for a hug of encouragement. We are delighted to celebrate this power teaching duo.

Moment I realized I had made it: Mike: Made what? Maya: I’m still waiting for a student to dedicate a book to me... Worst excuse ever from a student: Mike: “It got deleted” Maya: “I can’t.” -or- “My little brother peed on my essay.” First three songs listed on my life playlist: Mike: “Ramble On” Led Zeppelin, “Paul Revere” Beastie Boys, “Lovely Day” Bill Withers Single biggest indulgence: Mike: Expensive bottles of cabernet sauvignon. Ocean or river? Beach or campsite? Why? Mike: Ocean. Campsite. Some of my favorite camping spots are near the ocean and they usually come packaged with a nice beach! Maya: Ocean Campsite—the vastness provides perspective while the campsite keeps you grounded. Song that always makes me cry: Mike: Release, Pearl Jam Maya: Just Breathe, Pearl Jam Stand By Me, reminds me of my Dad. Hallelujah, Jeff Buckley

Still on my bucket list: Mike: An African Big 5 PHOTO Safari & filming Great Whites from a cage. Maya: An African Safari with my family! A Liverpool soccer match at Anfield! My “go to” Chico spot: Mike: I have a “secret spot” in Upper Park that I have gone to since I was a teenager. Maya: The corner booth on the patio of Sicilian Cafe. What gets me out of bed each morning: Maya: My remarkable husband, our hilarious kids, and strong coffee.

PHOTOS BY FRANK REBELO

What my life will look like in five years: Maya: Living our wonderful life with family, still teaching, looking for beautiful beaches!

Teacher I remember the most from being a student: Mike: Doug Wetmore, my fifth & sixth grade teacher at Marigold Elementary. Maya: Just one?! Mr. Bringolf, Mrs. Hunter, Mr. Reimers, Tombetta, Brown, Randy Wonzong Summer break is for: Mike: Traveling, margaritas, camping, grilling in the backyard, and sleeping in. Maya: Family time, vacations, creating new lessons, recharging your energy for August! Book that left a lasting impression on me: Mike: Into the Wild Maya: Shantaram, All the Light We Cannot See, Rebecca, Beach Music, To Kill a Mockingbird.

Last thing I binge-watched: Mike: Murder Mountain on Netflix. Maya: Ozark One thing I am exceptionally good at: Mike: Planning amazing trips on a budget. Maya: ‘Listening’...but I also practice the art of conversation quite freely! One thing I am epically bad at: Mike: Washing dishes. I have zero tolerance for: Mike: Poor customer service and people who do not listen. Maya: Meanness and bad attitudes My personal billboard would read: Mike: Do your job people! Maya: I am so very, very lucky.

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Recreate this look in your home! SCONCE: SAZERACSTITCHES.COM VANITY AND MIRROR: IKEA RUG: ETSY.COM/SHOP/ OLIOCOLLECTIVE (CHICO LOCAL) TILE: OVERSTOCK.COM SHOWER CURTAIN: TARGET

ewish

ear, N New Y

TRAY: VINTAGE

throom

VASE: CB2

PHOTO PROVIDED BY ASHLEY DEKELLIS

What's tired, outdated, and boring all over? No, not your favorite leggings, your bathroom! Let’s face it, we can’t help but be excited when we get to makeover one of the most used rooms in the home into something that is inviting, fresh, and relaxing. Bath makeovers range from total gut jobs to swapping out accessories. The level you choose will depend on your budget, desired outcome, and how good a marriage and family therapist you have. I personally believe that you can make a major impact in transforming a space with only a few key changes as well as with a little guidance and inspiration. Here are the areas to consider: LIGHTING: Most bathrooms have outdated light fixtures and bulbs that make you look like an Oompa Loompa. No matter what decorative changes you make, if there is terrible bath lighting, the room will not reach its full potential. Big box stores and Amazon (hallelujah prime shipping) offer affordable modern choices in a variety of finishes. Sites like Etsy are also great for independent light fixture makers that offer high design at low cost. PAINT: It's always very tempting to paint a bathroom a fun color. Although, sometimes this can look amazing and bold, most of the time it just ends up looking like a clown’s closet. White is such a crucial option to consider because it always feels fresh and clean. If you crave color, try a darker navy 16

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tone or deep green. The bathroom should be a relaxing place to get ready for the day, unwind for the night, and, ummmmm, visit throughout the day. You can also try giving your bath cabinets some paint love and swap out old hardware. ACCESSORIES: This is where you can get creative and add some personality into the room. Still keeping in mind, that less is more, try adding a pop of greenery (faux if there is no natural light), crisp towels, bath mat, and shower curtain. These items are inexpensive and will soften the room with textures as well as add warmth. It's also always a good idea to keep bathroom clutter at bay or corral with containers to at least make the mess appear tidier. Shhhh. Use a tray on top of the counter to house frequently used items and vessels in drawers for toiletries or makeup. Contain that clutter and spend more time looking at the world instead of looking for your floss. Go big or go home...wait, this is your home: If you desire to go above and beyond, try swapping out these design elements: mirror, vanity, tile, faucet, and or shower hardware. Whatever you choose, keep in mind that timeless design will give your bath a greater chance at staying beautiful for years to come.

DESIGN ADVICE

VIA

ASHLEY DEKELLIS

For more information on home styling, visit heirloomfox.com

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What is a Pour-Over Will? The initial couple of articles I wrote discussed some of the components of a California estate plan. Last month, in light of the Camp Fire, I took a hiatus from this discussion to address estate planning issues related to lost or destroyed documents. This month, I return to my estate plan component series to address the final major document that comes in a modern estate plan: the Pour-Over Will. Some people assume that if they have a Trust, a Will is not necessary. The limitation of a Trust, however, is that it only dictates what happens to assets inside of it. For instance, if you have a life insurance policy that pays to your spouse or children, that policy never touches the trust. Similarly, if you have moneys or accounts held outside of your Trust when you pass, you need something to push those assets into your Trust. Unlike the life insurance policy, there may not be a pay on death instruction in those accounts. Without something to push it into the Trust, those accounts have no clear instruction as to who or where to go. That is where the Pour-Over Will comes in. It takes all assets held outside of your trust that do not otherwise pass pursuant to their own designated beneficiary instructions, and â&#x20AC;&#x153;poursâ&#x20AC;? them over into your Trust. This ensures that the wishes you created in your Trust are met. While the Pour-Over Will is a necessary piece of an estate plan, and will ensure passage of assets via the Trust, it will not save you from a probate if your Trust is not properly funded. Proper Trust funding is a topic I will cover next month. LAW OFFICES OF AARON J. STEWART BUSINESS LAW & ESTATE PLANNING 2619 Forest Avenue Suite 100 Chico, CA 95928 530.345.2212

Football, Family, Focus, And Fun Every Wednesday during the first semester, the Chico High Varsity football team traded their helmets and shoulder pads for weekly organizers and self-reporting on their grades. The idea for this came about through an evolutionary and serendipitous process. As most ideas, it too was born in a missed opportunity. Unknowingly, the threads were spawned some four years ago. Susan Chrisco, a resource teacher for 27 years, discovered a referral for a struggling student. Not just a struggling student, but the star running back for the football team. Somehow, he just fell through the cracks, and, what proved more frustrating, was 20

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the fact that no testing could be done to obvious that this proved a vital way to start. find out his exact needs. Susan, and her “Self actualization” is nothing more than teaching partner, David Teja, a 19 year the ‘motive to realize one’s full potential,’ veteran, became mystified that this athlete the perfect goal for any student or athlete. was deemed not just ineligible to participate, However, one must make his or her’s way but there appeared no way to figure out up each level in order for the top to come how or why. In the Spring of 2017, Susan into fruition. The “physiological” level asked aloud, “What if we had the whole includes such things as “food, shelter, sleep, football team in here for academic support?” water.” That is why these three educators David agreed instantly, and, when varsity adopted the Triangle of Wellness to assist coach, Jason Alvistur, was approached, them. The triangle consists of “physical, he answered “that would be awesome!” social, emotional” wellness with the Division I programs have this in place and notion that no one of these can be out of there appears to be a reason to mirror this balance. Both of these were intended to in high school. Over that summer, the three point these student/athletes to a tendency of them worked on the idea, developed towards a stable equilibrium. If this sounds a plan, and Panther Athletes Committed complicated, it is not. Rather, it is crucial. So was born, with its motto, “The pursuit of were all the nuts and bolts of how and what excellence is worth the effort.” each Wednesday would look and feel. The development of the plan anchored its roots in research. They began with a pyramid and a triangle. The pyramid is Maslow’s hierarchy of needs; followed naturally by the Triangle of Wellness. In his 1943 paper “A Theory of Human Motivation”, Maslow set forth his hierarchy as necessary to individual success. As pyramids go, success stems from a bottom up approach. Maslow’s pyramid from the bottom to top has these components: physiological, safety, love/belonging, esteem, and self actualization. A simple glance and it is

Putting the plan into motion resulted in a pragmatic approach. First and foremost, Susan and David, already seasoned in team teaching, have the ideal classroom. An anomaly amidst the array of traditional classrooms, theirs is unique at every turn. To begin with it is two classrooms married into one by permanently opening the collapsible wall, making for a large rectangular space. The space includes a small grouping of traditional desks, tables scattered around with differing heights and clustering, and soft couches to round things out. Known

WRITTEN BY KEVIN DOLAN PHOTOS BY KELSEY VEITH & FRANK REBELO

as ‘alternative seating,’ it also, when the room is stocked with snacks and water, satisfies both the Triangle and beginnings of success in the pyramid. Next came common sense stuff such as looking at the roster to analyze the needs for Academic Support by sharing the grades and transcripts. Early assessment with the players was to introduce different learning styles, brain modality, as well as speed and accuracy culminating into Students Commited Agreements. Planners and organizers were provided to assist in holding them accountable for their own education. Embedded in this pragmatic approach was Susan’s constant reminder that when these players walk through the door, the other part of the job is to “love on them and lift them up.” The building of relationships paved the way for these students to share a ‘safe place.’ Susan, David, and Jason all came away with the understanding that “We are lucky, this is a dream opportunity.” When three adults and an entire football team are placed together in such a setting, unexpected things emerge. As each player entered the classroom, they would individually check out what was known as their “grit scale.” This weekly check made going through the Triangle of Wellness far easier and more honest. Adding weekly mini-lessons or guest speakers sparked

additional interest. Perhaps, for Jason Alvistur, the perks of this setting unfolded another wonderful change. To interact and witness his players, without their helmets and gear, opened a new and valuable understanding of each one. Additionally, the players viewed their coach through a different and valuable lens. Small moments abounded with both wow and delight—the sight of one player tutoring several of his teammates through a difficult math problem, or two teammates consoling a teary eyed friend through a difficult time. For Susan and David, one moment stands out. It occurred on a Tuesday when they walked into their empty classroom, save one seat with one player, head in hands crying. He shared with them his struggle with all the pressure, admitted battling mental challenges, and talked openly about the consideration for self harm. This young man was placed with the proper help and left the teachers shaking their head, wondering how or when this happens without the weekly study hall. The climb through Maslow’s hierarchy of needs is real. Senior Chance Brown put it this way. “It was the best experience of my life turning a team into a family, and helping us to see how to make our goals.” Self actualization can be attained! 21

Seeing Straight Again Born and raised in the Bay Area, Bob Armstrong graduated from Chico State with a degree in biological sciences in 1963. He moved to Sacramento, where he worked as a claims adjuster for Travelers Insurance Company before trying his hand in the building material industry. A self-proclaimed man of many hats, he eventually found his way to Redding and began working for Shasta Community Health Center, where he was responsible for purchasing virtually all of the general medical equipment and items needed for them to conduct their daily business. It was here that he met his wife, Jill, a Colusa native who was working for Dignity Healthcare at the time. Introduced by friends, the two immediately fell for each other in 1981, and have lived together in Redding ever since. In the early 90’s, Bob began to notice that his eyes were unusually itchy and watery. When the condition didn’t resolve with normal over the counter medications, Jill asked a physician at the hospital to have Bob in for a checkup. The doctor found that Bob had Graves' Disease, an autoimmune disease that results in an overactivity of the thyroid gland, eventually causing inflammation of the eyes and swelling of the surrounding tissues. He notified Bob that there was unfortunately nothing that could be done about the disease, and that it would simply have to run its course, at the end of which time he would have to have surgery to correct the damage. Bob suffered through the symptoms of the disease for a number of years, which ultimately resulted in his left eye having compromised vision and strabismus, a disorder where the eyes don’t look in the same direction at the same time. He underwent five surgeries at UC San Francisco, starting in 1996, with hopes to correct the changes to his eyes. Unfortunately, none of the surgeries proved successful. Instead, Bob was left with double vision when looking in any direction other than straight ahead, and a significant loss of depth perception when looking down, which created a significant difficulty with walking. He was told he would simply have to live with the conditions for the rest of his life. During a trip to Butte Meadows years later, Bob picked up a copy of Upgraded Living and came across an article on Dr. Kristiane Ransbarger, a pediatric ophthalmologist at North Valley Eye Care in Chico. Intrigued with her speciality in strabismus, he decided to call and inquire as to whether or not she accepted adult patients, even though her focus was children. The two spoke and she invited Bob to visit their office. 22

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Rather than operate on Bob’s affected eye, as many surgeons had previously, Dr. Ransbarger decided to operate on his healthy eye instead. During the surgery at Enloe Outpatient Surgery Center, Dr. Ransbarger altered his right eye muscles to match the movement of his left eye, allowing the muscles in his good eye to take on the lion's share of the work. The surgery lasted about an hour and resulted in an immediate and significant improvement in Bob’s vision. “We thought it was just brilliant,” Jill said. Bob continued, “It was a such a novel approach! I can’t tell you how much better the result is, especially considering what it was before. There was no progress at all over the five prior surgeries and I just learned to live with it. For lack of a better phrase, it was like seeing a light at the end of the tunnel. The surgery was really easy, and I could determine immediately, even through the patch that was placed over my eye, that there had been a significant improvement in my vision.” “When you looked at him after the patch came off a few days later, there was such a huge difference in how he looked,” Jill beamed, “and his eyes look so much more balanced now as a result of the surgery. It has been a huge improvement.” Now in the post-surgery healing stage, Bob is excited for the possibility of what’s still to come. “Dr. Ransbarger thinks she might be able to fine tune my eyes even more,” he said, “she doesn’t quit. She’s just incredible. If push came to shove, I’d be more than happy and content with how everything currently is considering the vast improvement over what my eyesight was like before, but it’s great to know that there’s the possibility for something even better.” Asked about his experience with North Valley Eye Care and their staff, Bob replied, “Everyone was just incredible. They all went above and beyond to accommodate us and to help us through a situation that I had been living with for so long. Dr. Ransbarger’s assistant, Amanda, was an absolute gem—just a chip off the ol’ block. She’s just so caring and thoughtful! I can’t possibly say enough good things about Dr. Ransbarger or North Valley Eye Care. Truly, if I had to rate them and my experience on a scale of one to 10, I would rate them a 15 or 20. Dr. Ransbarger didn’t commit to anything or get my hopes up until she reviewed everything. She spent a lot of time, far more than any other doctor ever had, and only committed once she knew she could do something for me. There’s simply no one better.” Asked for their advice to others experiencing eye issues, they responded in near unison, “Call Dr. Ransbarger at North Valley Eye Care.” Bob concluded, “It’s the best decision you could possibly make.” IF YOU’RE LIKE BOB AND HAVE EXPERIENCED CHANGES IN YOUR VISION, CALL NORTH VALLEY EYE CARE TODAY AT 530.891.1900.

PHOTO PROVIDED BY BOB ARMSTRONG

Bob arrived with his medical records in hand and the two reviewed them together. Dr. Ransbarger stated that she would need some time to further evaluate his situation and would call him back promptly to let him know if she could help. She consulted with a number of colleagues and called him back, letting him know she would be willing to take on his case. Thrilled at the possibility of regaining even some of his eyesight, Bob discussed the options with her, and decided to undergo surgery in November of 2018.

YOUR HEALTH BENEFITS OF MASSAGE: BOGUS OR REAL?

Approximately one third of Americans have had a professional massage in their lifetimes, and more are turning to various types of manual massage therapies for medical conditions every year. But is massage effective at treating medical conditions, or, is it a feel-good placebo? While certainly more research needs to be done, there is mounting evidence that massage can be effective at treating a wide range of conditions in a surprisingly broad array of contexts. Various studies of massage and its potential benefits have demonstrated that it is not only an effective treatment for muscle discomfort, pain, and tension. Its effectiveness extends into treating stress related conditions. Stress related conditions can vary in scope and intensity, but research suggests that massage may be able to ease anxiety and depression disorders by increasing serotonin and dopamine levels, ease chronic headaches, and treat gastrointestinal issues caused or exacerbated by stress. Since stress contributes to heart disease, obesity, insomnia, low back pain, myofascial pain syndrome, fibromyalgia, and temporomandibular joint pain (or TMJ), physicians are referring patients to certified massage therapists more and more. They are now referring these same patients for conditions they previously had not included. Massage is shown to increase blood flow to distressed tissues, improving joint range of motion, and muscle tension, and pain. This makes it effective in treating physical conditions where muscle tension can put 24

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pressure on nerves, such as Piriformis Syndrome, soft tissue Sciatica, and Thoracic Outlet Syndrome, in which individuals experience numbness or tingling down the legs or arms, respectively. Massage is also effective at treating soft tissue strains and injuries by promoting healing through increased blood flow to affected areas. Do you think that therapeutic massage might be beneficial for you? If you have a diagnosed medical condition, it is recommended that you ask your doctor for a referral. Despite its many benefits, massage is not meant to be a replacement for regular medical care. Also, be sure to find a qualified therapist to help meet your needs. While California does regulate massage therapists through registration and certification requirements, don’t be afraid to ask questions to make sure that your therapist has the experience to help you. Do not hesitate to ask a potential massage therapist such questions as: • Are you certified? • What is your training and experience? • How many massage therapy sessions do you think I will need? • What is the cost, and is it covered by health insurance?

HEALTH ADVICE

VIA

JENNI MILLER

Jenni Miller, CMT, RYT, and Owner of the Prana Endura Wellness Center —a collective of professionals specializing in therapeutic massage and customized yoga sessions for the purposes of stress management, pain relief, detoxification, and the maintenance of good health.

Duos! DYNAMIC SKIN CARE

There are hundreds of ways to get better looking skin these days. Innovations in technology and products have given us the tools to improve on what we have, and keep it looking great as we age. Procedures such as lasers, micro-needling, radio-frequency, and injectables can be paired with each other, or with indicated skin care products, to achieve the best results. For instance, a microdermabrasion done before a laser treatment will help the laser penetrate more easily, as all the debris is removed from the skin's surface beforehand. A KTP laser treatment or IPL (intense pulsed light) to remove reds and browns from the skin can be paired with a hydroquinone product from Obagi to suppress melanin production and keep discoloration from returning. Microneedling can be paired with the application of PRP (platelet-richplasma) to stimulate collagen synthesis and grow stem cells. Microneedling or pixel laser resurfacing can also be paired with a hyaluronic acid product to relieve dryness and plump the skin to make it appear smoother and firmer. There are endless combinations of procedures and products to give your skin a youthful look! Botox and fillers can get rid of fine lines, wrinkles, and deep creases. Adding a copper-peptide serum will strengthen the skin's support structure to make results last much longer. Any procedure or products you use will be more efficient with the use of sunscreen every day! Call the DermBar Med-Spa at 530.342.2672 for a free consultation! DERM BAR MED-SPA 85 Declaration Dr. Suite 100 Chico, CA 95973 530.342.2672

Are your expectations high enough for your current HR? Nowadays, I often have folks questioning just what role human resources plays within an organization. My answer always baffles them, as the common misconception is that HR is there for two things: hiring and firing. This is good news for business owners because if that is their expectation and all they are getting from their HR department now, they have a tremendous opportunity for growth. Last month, a client said it perfectly: “You have to spend money to make money, and HRiQ has made my business thrive in the most unexpected way”. Who would have thought a music and arts academy would need Human Resources? Well, Vincent Chambers, owner of Apollo Music and Arts, is proof that any business with employees needs some form of human resources. His employees feel appreciated, and it shows through the students excelling from music lessons and growth in what his business is able to offer to the community of Chico. Visit Apollo Music and Arts for any and all of your family’s music needs, or to hear Vincent’s experience with HRiQ. Contact us to see what our human resources solutions can do for your bottom line. HRIQ–HUMAN RESOURCES + PAYROLL CHICO, CA SHELBY@UPYOURHRIQ.COM UPYOURHRIQ.COM 530.200.2663

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YOUR HEALTH LOOK GOOD, FEEL GOOD, PERFORM GOOD

A quote I always remembered NFL player Terrell Owens say was “If you look good, you feel good, you play good”. It stuck with me because it rang so true in my own life. When I look good, I feel good, and I perform better at whatever task I’m doing. When people think of kickboxing, they think of two guys beating each other into next week and the crowd cheering them on, but that’s not what it’s about. Kickboxing is an amazing tool to get into shape, improve your health and energy, and also build an extreme amount of confidence in a short period of time. Kickboxing is a killer workout that will leave you drenched in sweat, and you’ll actually enjoy doing it. Running on a treadmill isn’t fun, but kickboxing is a blast! So you’ll push yourself even harder, burn even more calories and, as a result, you’ll start to slim down, tone up, and build the body you’ve always wanted. Not only will you start looking good, but you’ll start feeling great! Your health will improve quickly and you’ll start to gain more energy, be able to play with your kids longer, or just not feel so tired all of the time. As your cardio improves, so will everything else. You’ll also notice yourself making better food choices because you don’t want to ruin all of your progress. You definitely don’t want to go back to feeling tired and sluggish every day.

But my favorite part about kickboxing? You’ll start to perform good, because you’ll have a new found sense of confidence and self esteem. Once you start learning to throw some real kicks and punches, smashing the heavy bag around, dropping weight, and having more energy, your confidence will skyrocket. It’ll have no choice. If you are looking better, feeling better, and learning to throw some seriously powerful punches and kicks, you’re going to walk with your head up and shoulders back like never before. You’ll have more confidence in social situations, while dealing with your boss and coworkers, or just while going around town to do your everyday tasks. I mean, what is more confidence boosting and empowering than learning how to throw real punches and kicks and getting to beat all of your frustrations out on a heavy bag for 12 rounds? So if you’re anything like me, and you want to look good, feel good, and perform good, give kickboxing a shot. It’s one of the most high energy and fun workouts you can do.

HEALTH ADVICE

VIA

CODY SWEET

Cody is the owner of Sweet Fitness Kickboxing, a fitness kickboxing gym in Chico specializing in high energy and fun workouts without getting hit. For more information, visit SweetFitnessKickboxing.com

BEAUTY Q&A RED, THE COLOR OF LOVE

Ah red, the color of love. What’s a more fitting beauty endeavor in February than finding the perfect shade of red lipstick? As a freelance makeup artist for Chanel for over 10 years, I helped hundreds, maybe even thousands of women find the perfect shade of red. It can be a bit intimidating, especially if you generally wear only a bit of gloss or nude tones, but a little red goes a long way. It’s the best way to add some festivity to a dark wardrobe or brighten your look on a dreary winter day. First of all, identify your skin tone family. Cool pinkish skin tones look best in red shades with a bit of plum in them. Warmer olive skin tones look nice in brick reds that are more in the orange/rust color family. If you aren’t sure, or have a very neutral tone, then my all time favorite red is Chanel’s “Gabrielle” Rouge Coco lipstick, named after the legend herself. It’s a good idea to start with a true red and then taper it down to your comfort level. Another thing to ensure success is making certain you have the right prep. I recommend doing minimal eye makeup, such as neutral shadows or a bit of liner and mascara when wearing red lipstick and making sure you have a bit of blush on your cheeks. To find the best blush tone, look to the shade of your inner ear, that’s your natural flush. Lining the outside of your lips with a bit of concealer helps block the 28

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red in without preventing smearing. I’ve never been a huge fan of lip liners because for many it’s just too much hassle. When applying, use a lipstick brush and start at the middle of your lip and then feather out, but not going completely to the corners. This technique helps you avoid a spindly elongated smile. If you have very full lips then filling into the corners is fine. Don’t be afraid to try multiple shades, starting with the lightest and working your way to the deepest. Use a makeup remover between to ensure you’re getting an accurate reading of the color. Be patient! Don’t be surprised if it takes over five attempts to find the shade you feel most comfortable. You can even mix the red with a bit of your favorite nude lipstick to tone it down while working your way up to full red. And lastly…step back from the mirror! Observe the shade from a normal viewing distance. If the makeup boutique has poor lighting, ask if you may take a mirror outside or near a window to examine the color. While red might not ever be your go to color, it is still worth it to find your perfect shade of red to spruce up any look quickly and with minimal effort.

BEAUTY ADVICE

VIA

TIFFANY CLEVELAND

To find out more about Tiffany and the hair & makeup services she offers, visit artistry-by-tiffany.com

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these days is holding the door open for someone. This program really pushes you to learn to think about, and be considerate of, how others truly feel. You find that you put yourself in the shoes of those you are helping and there’s a certain joy that comes from doing so. The work really helps create what everyone needs more of: empathy and love.

JIM CONERY A H I C A P VO LU N T E E R F U L L O F E M PAT H Y A N D LOV E Born at the old Cottage Hospital near One Mile in 1950, Jim Conery has lived in Chico for the past 68 years. A graduate of PV High School, he was a member of the first graduating class to attend the school all three years. When he arrived, they were still painting the first numbers on the classroom doors. Jim attended Chico State and earned a degree in Chemistry, returning later to also obtain his master’s degree in computer science. He took the second degree, and turned it into his life’s work, filling various roles in information systems for Chico State, Butte College, and a number of other organizations. Jim retired from his career in 2007, and happened upon an ad for the Health Insurance Counseling and Advocacy Program (HICAP). A recent recipient of a good deal of free time, he decided to get involved in volunteer work and fulfill his obligation to the community that had supported him over the years. He took the requisite classes and earned his position as a HICAP counselor. He has been volunteering at the program for 10 years now and loving every minute of it. We caught up with Jim to get a better idea of what the experience has been like for him. UL: How would you describe HICAP? JC: HICAP is a group of people who help others with Medicare questions and problems. We often serve the most vulnerable people— those who didn’t grow up with a keyboard in their hands and are now expected to

garner information online. We’re there to help them as the quagmire of Medicare is difficult enough on its own, even without the online element. UL: What inspires you to be involved? JC: Honestly, I’m here because I enjoy helping other people. You don’t realize how much help is needed at first, but trust me, there’s a lot of confusion out there. I taught computer science at Chico State and love getting in front of people. This gives me the opportunity to do it all over again. On top of that, we get to provide support to elders, which is a group that I feel our culture doesn’t honor as much as they should. Most of all though, we’re volunteers, and we do it because we want to. UL: How did you know this was the right volunteer work for you? JC: My wife and I had two older parents, and Medicare was starting to get a little confusing. We needed to figure out drug plans for my mother-in-law, and quickly found we needed help there. When I found HICAP, we weren’t at the point where someone was really sick, and I found the information to be intriguing. As a result of the classes I took, we were able to handle things ourselves and volunteering to help others navigate the same waters only made sense.

UL: What has surprised you most about your time at HICAP? JC: Honestly, the quality of the staff that works in the HICAP office. Originally, I didn’t know what to expect as it’s mostly a group of volunteers, but everyone is so knowledgeable and professional, it really comes as a shock at first. We have Tatiana Fassieux, the country’s Queen of Medicare, working right next to all of us, and that’s really an incredible benefit. Most people don’t know just how important she is on the nationwide level. It’s like working with a celebrity! The quality of management, staff, and volunteers couldn’t be any better—everyone is so supportive and dedicated; they just really love what they do. The really surprising thing is that we’re all very autonomous. We know what we need to do, and we’re allowed to do it. People show up and we help them. You aren’t micromanaged. You just get to enjoy what you signed up to do. UL: What do you do to avoid burnout? What are your other hobbies when not volunteering? JC: I don’t have even think about burning out. We only have so much work that we do, and only as much work as we’re comfortable doing. If I had three clients, three days a week, it might start to feel like a job, but it isn’t a job. I have six sessions a month and a meeting. You can ask for more or less depending on your wants and needs. When I’m not volunteering at HICAP, I’m taking care of my mother’s estate, working in my backyard, and remodeling my house. I have one son and two grandchildren; they keep me plenty busy. I get to spend lots of time with them and couldn’t ask for more in retirement. HICAP IS RECRUITING, CLASSES WILL BE HELD IN MARCH. IF INTERESTED CALL TIM SONNENBURG AT 898.6641.

UL: What have you learned while working at HICAP that has helped elsewhere in your life? JC: You learn to have greater empathy for others. It seems what passes for empathy 31

CAMP FIRE SURVIVORS LEGAL ASSISTANCE It is possible to recover from disaster. We are here to help.

FIRE VICTIM REGISTRATION Frantz Law Group is a nationally recognized law firm that has specialized experience in representing victims of wildfires caused by the negligence of public utility companies and has represented and/or currently represents over 10,000 victims against various utility companies. Listen to our weekly podcast to learn more about how we can help you recover from your wildfire losses. http://www.ksro.com/show/california-wildfire-law/

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WE ARE HERE TO HELP! Let us help you rebuild your life. This is not a class action lawsuit. This is in addition to, and separate from, your insurance. • Our investigation will show how PG&E allegedly caused the fires • $55.4 Million jury verdict obtained against San Diego Gas & Electric Company/ SEMPRA ENERGY for negligence / punitive damages for failure to maintain their utility equipment** • Learn more about our Rapid Recovery Assessment Program to expedite rebuilding your home and getting reimbursement for all of your damages and all of the emotional distress and upheaval in your life. • Find out how you can claim compensation for these increased expenses. • Information Provided on Rebuilding Resources: Civil Engineers, Soil Engineers, Architects, Permit Expediting, Structural Engineers, Contractors, Erosion Control services, & Asbestos and Hazardous Waste Testing & Cleanup services. Frantz Law Group, APLC | McNicholas & McNicholas | Bridgford, Gleason & Ar tinian San Francisco 71 Stevenson Bldg 71 Stevenson St, Suite 40 0 San Francisco, CA 94105

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Some Keys To Surviving A Market Pullback

BY RENEE MICHEL, MBA, AND JOE SWEENEY, CFP ®, FINANCIAL ADVISORS AT ASSET MANAGEMENT GROUP

The bear finally came out of hibernation during the last few weeks

A professional advisor should help you understand the difference between

of December. Nearly 10 years into this bull market, many pundits

volatility and risk. During market pullbacks, the goal for investors should

acknowledged that this stock market downturn was inevitable. Indeed,

be to prevent temporary drops in the market from becoming permanent

stock prices have simply never advanced higher in a straight line. The

losses. Usually that means staying the course on whatever personal plan

market moves in a cycle along with the economy and, along the way, there

you and your professional advisor originally designed. Make sure you

are price surges as well as pullbacks.

have a plan in place, and it is continuously updated as your goals and

Understanding that price volatility is normal is not an easy task for young

timeframes change.

or seasoned investors alike. Every quick market drop feels different than the last, and is usually accompanied by headlines that suggest the same. A common reaction is to want to make the emotional pain stop, which translates into selling low. Even disciplined investors, when no plan or guidance is in place, will falter and make investment decisions based on their feelings rather than their financial goals. This is why working with a professional advisor with whom you trust is important. When it comes to investing, professionals should be: • Thoughtful not Temperamental • Plan Driven not Panicked • Systematic not Spontaneous

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.

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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We Must Do Everything We Can Danelle Campbell stood on the stage to deliver her welcoming address to the California Opioid Summit. Her salutatory remarks were warm and inviting as she glanced down through her glasses and up over the top of them to look at the audience. In an instance, her voice took a much more intentional tone, and after a brief, purposeful pause, she looked up and declared, “We must do everything we can.” The urgency in her voice could very well have made this the rally cry of the entire event. Urgency is the real key. Reading the name of this coalition correctly would look like this—Butte. Youth. NOW. Danelle does not consider herself the face of Butte Youth Now. However, she most assuredly is the pulse, the heart, and the will. Danelle has been with the Prevention Unit for 28 years and is the Program Manager for the Butte County Behavioral Health Prevention Services. In 2006, the Butte Youth Now Coalition was

formed. She is a relentless champion for this coalition and tenacious in her constant pursuit of beneficial grants for each program. Danelle has two clear forces to assist in these endeavors. The first is Nicole Collins, the Coalition Coordinator, who has become Danelle’s trusted right hand. The other is the coalition itself, comprised of community partners from Behavior Health, Public Health, Public Works, Enloe Hospital, Chico State, Butte Glenn Medical Society, Aegis Treatment Centers, First 5, Anthem, California Health and Wellness, local physicians, and other community stakeholders. Danelle is quick to point out her amazing staff, and smiles when pointing out the fact that so many more full time positions have been filled, including high school age employees. In its data driven, educating manner, this coalition is not focused on a handful of real

issues facing our youth now; they want to tackle them all. The entire laundry list in the crosshairs is impressive and foreboding. Three of the mainstays have emerged recently in the headlines of national news demonstrating how Butte Youth Now is ahead of its time. Those headlines reported such things as, “American adults are more likely to die of opioid abuse than an automobile accident.” The next day, “A new survey of middle and high school students shows a 74% increase in the use of e-cigarettes.” Of course, right here in Chico, on a quiet Sunday morning, the community woke up to the grim news of a mass casualty opioid related overdose. Due to a Coalition initiative, the first responders were equipped with naloxone, proving a life saving measure. Sometimes, doing everything we can, feels like a home run with two outs. 39

Community connection is at the forefront in yet another shining example of placing our county youth face to face with their community leaders. The World Cafe, held at Richardson Springs in the Fall, places our young people in front of such members as Police Chiefs, Principals, Doctors, Pastors, and other public leaders and decision makers. Part of the session is for these teens to be trained on how to conduct an interview, and how to get their ideas and concerns across to the people who influence and create change. The coup de grace takes place when they get 40

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WRITTEN BY KEVIN DOLAN

The California Opioid Summit is a prime example of what Danelle refers to as the “collaborative approach,” thus having “multilevels of diversity.” It is also all about the movement to “get everyone to the table.” The two day summit, called for a comprehensible approach to addressing the opioid epidemic, ran the gamut of this topic from the history, through the devastation of its impact, and strategies that can affect the necessary changes. The 400 people in attendance were from all over the state, and, as a result, this event had a statewide impact. The keynote speakers ranged from a mother who lost her son while attending Arizona State University to a Columbine survivor. The afternoon sessions were breakouts featuring everything from ‘Prescription Drugs 101,’ to ‘Achieving Zero Overdoses Through Collective Impact.’ Clearly the urgency of the epidemic and the vast difference in reasons for dependency became reoccurring themes. As a part of the commitment to prevent opioid abuse, the summit resulted in the development of a county wide opioid safe prescribing guidelines. In addition, some important questions to ask if prescribed an opioid painkiller were handed out to young folks. These questions ranged from “Would ibuprofen work instead?” to “Can you prescribe only 1-2 days worth?” and “Are they safe to cut in half?” This becomes an example of the human piece, involving the community itself—a place to build relationships, making for a healthy community through education. Though a statewide effort and beyond, this summit clearly has an huge effect right here in Butte County. The combination of Athlete, Parent, and Physician Committed, demonstrates the epitome of the effect. Combining all three critical factors into the reduction of underage drinking and drug abuse among county youth. This collaborative approach not only raises the awareness across the board but places the issues we tackle at the core of community connection.

to sit down with the Butte County decision makers and tell them about their vision, and share their real issues, and listen to the vision and issues of their counterparts. This takes on the look of speed dating in its pace and scope. From the adults who attended this event, listening to these stories provokes emotion and awareness. They report the “stories they share will hurt your heart.” When the 4.0/overachiever also has the same set of problems with self esteem and depression as the near dropout, it’s like “your eyes become wide open.” The clash of the real issues facing our community and the real issues facing our youth brings about a broader perspective of what it will take to properly move forward. The power to get everyone at the same table and the movement that results due to the diversity of the individuals involved goes beyond measure. Once again, the issues each of us tackle are the issues we all tackle, brought together by a simple community connection.

This is but a tiny view of the myriad things happening within the Butte Youth Now movement. A glance at this includes: the Marijuana Prevention unit successfully debunking the myths through information for parents detailing the dangers of early use by both middle and high school age up to age 17; the Responsible Beverage Service scored when a majority of downtown bars, some 30 owners, sent their bartenders and bouncers to an afternoon session with the intention of increased safety and reduction in harm by better spotting fake IDs, proper alcohol pouring to avoid over-serving, and confronting those who have had too much to drink; the physician committed component allowed for adding questions of mental health, and a proper screening capacity associated with drugs and alcohol; the Flavored Tobacco Campaign pointed right at the vaping market, again with the education of our youth rather than the mostly unsuccessful scare tactics. These are not all of the promotions intended

to reduce or end these harmful components. The eyes now are on Trauma Informed, adding pieces such as restorative justice, and counseling with pragmatic advice. All of this remains data driven through healthy surveys, by showing young people using e-cigarettes that they may be on their way to rolling blunts; or exposing that far too many young people are drinking alcohol and binge drinking way too early. All with the intent of turning a discipline problem into a people problem. Danelle, who, as a person, will not back down from anything and will champion for all of this, certainly will place this under the broad umbrella of the fact that we must do everything we can.

TO SEE HOW YOU CAN GET INVOLVED, VISIT BUTTEYOUTHNOW.ORG. 41

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M A K E I T N E W AGA I N We are proud to be Butte County’s one-stop remodeling shop for kitchen and bath needs, but did you know that we sell material as well? If you are looking to complete your remodel personally, stop by our showroom to see our wide variety of offerings for countertops, cabinets, flooring, and fixtures at prices that compete with big box stores! There’s always someone in the showroom to help you find the material that’s perfect for your remodel. If you are looking for help in completing your remodel, you can always count on our team of experienced contractors to get the job done right and on time. Call us at the number below or stop by the showroom to discuss your project. NEW AGAIN KITCHEN REMODELING 2502 PARK AVE, CHICO, CALIFORNIA 95928 530.899.2888

Whether you want to stay close to Paradise or if you’d like to relocate elsewhere, we have a variety of offices throughout Northern California

and Nevada, as well as a team of award-winning agents to help those dealing with this difficult transition. The Select Group of Real Estate Companies, Coldwell Banker Select, and Century 21 Select are devoted to working together underneath one goal: to help you. We are your neighbors, family, and community. Our Century 21 Select Paradise agents are currently working out of our Century 21 Select Chico Office. Please don’t hesitate to call or stop by our office at 1101 El Monte Avenue in Chico. Their building is gone but they're still here!

WRITTEN BY CRYSTAL VAGNIER GRAPHICS PROVIDED BY CENTURY 21

As we push forward in recovering from the Camp Fire, we would like to extend a reminder to everyone in our community that we will work hard at rebuilding a better 2019. Together with the help of our neighbors, business owners, and resources, this new year will be focused on resilience and prosperity. As a company, we are here for you. Our staff and Realtors® are dedicated to working around the clock to help find adequate housing for those who need it most.

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. 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 46

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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!

Forgot to grab a magazine? All of our previous publications can be found on issuu.com!

WRITTEN BY JESSICA DOLAN CLARENDON

Love is Love is Love 5 UNCONVENTIONAL VALENTINE’S DAY GIFTS

As we usher in the new era of the Marie Kondo world, traditional holiday gifts now have to be filtered through the lens of ‘sparking joy’. The age old velvet boxes filled with chocolates stuffed with a roulette of either caramel or cherry may indeed spark something. However, your Valentine(s) might find that cherished emotion elsewhere. This all seems commonplace for me as I grew up in a house that saw Valentine’s Day come and go quietly; while Groundhog Day found my Mom and her sighing teary eyed coworkers gushing over a new yellow cruiser bike with fresh flowers in the woven basket.

The Give Back

While we should all strive to make each other feel loved year round, the 14th will arrive, with perhaps a hint of expectation, and bring red and pink showering down upon us all. Here are some ideas to breathe new life and spark joy this Valentine’s Day:

The first lesson for the Marie Kondo method is clothing. Most of us have an abundance of t-shirts that hold more sentiment than practical value. For the valentine in your life who wants clutter free drawers but may not be ready to thank them before discarding them quite yet—a t-shirt quilt might be the perfect balance of letting go and holding on. Find a local seamstress to help turn the old into something new!

The Practical

Sometimes you just want the thing you really need. Do not be afraid to take a scan of high use items your love, well loves. From carry on suitcase or wallet to phone case or travel coffee mug, giving a refresh on an item they use everyday will make your gift last well passed one day!

The Local Experience

The aura and romance of traveling together can happen in your own backyard, plan some tourist activities that you and your Valentine have never done, despite it being nearby. Create an itinerary to follow and capture the moments like you were touring the world. You will feel miles away without leaving the city limits. 48

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Valentine’s Day is a celebration of love, so consider shifting from romance to charity and friendship. Share the day together and volunteer at a soup kitchen, take flowers to nursing home residents, or contact a local women’s and children’s shelters to ask how you can best show Valentine’s love to those who live and work there. Giving back can stoke the fire of gratitude within your life and maybe even give you a fresh perspective on your relationship together.

The Marie Kondo (we had to have at least one)

The Tradition Reimagined

Create a chocolate tasting with a collection of their favorites and, yes, throw in some new ones, to put a clever spin on the Valentine favorite. Pair it with a series of matching wines to turn it into a whole decadent experience. You certainly do not have to be in a romantic relationship to celebrate the day or partake in any of the above! Plan the day with a friend, a family member, or a coworker—thus spreading the love (and sparking some joy) in everyone, including yourself.

Carrots INGREDIENT OF THE MONTH:

Winter brings chilly, rainy weather to Northern California and the best of the cool season crops to our tables. Many plants cannot survive freezing temperatures, but some are well equipped to deal with unforgiving winter weather. Carrots thrive in cold temperatures and farmers are pulling thousands of pounds of them from their homes in the ground. These delicious, bright orange vegetables have adapted a special defense mechanism that allows them to convert starch into sugars, which prevents the freezing process. Deliciously sweet and crunchy carrots offer us the immunity boost we need to stay healthy throughout the cooler, shorter days of winter when colds and the flu threaten our wellbeing. Adding just a small amount to your daily diet is enough to give your body the essential vitamins and minerals it requires. Carrots are considered to be one of the best health foods, containing a rich supply of antioxidant nutrients, fiber, biotin, Vitamin C, Vitamin B6, potassium, and more. Carrots might be best known for their high levels of beta-carotene, which acts as an antioxidant and is also responsible for producing their quintessential orange color. The human body transforms beta-carotene into Vitamin A, which is important for eyesight and a strong immune system. Carrots are also proven to greatly reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease. Adding even just a half serving, or half a cup of carrots to your daily diet, significantly reduces the risk of cardiovascular disease. They will also help improve bone density and prevent against bone related health problems. You can consume as many carrots as you 50

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want without any adverse health effects. Be aware though, that the bodyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s way of processing excess beta-carotene is to deposit it in the skin, which can turn you into a lovely, light shade of orange. Eating carrots in their raw form gives the body the most health benefits. They are the perfect on-the-go snack, or a great appetizer served with hummus at parties. Top your salad with shaved carrots or add chunks of them to chicken pot pie. As with most vegetables, once they are heated, they lose some of their nutritional value. Steaming is the best way to enjoy cooked carrots without removing too many of the nutritional benefits. In fact, they will retain 75% of their mineral constitution if quicksteamed for six or seven minutes. The less time steamed, the fewer nutrients they will lose, and exposed to heat for a longer period of time will result in more nutrients lost. This is not to say that if you roast carrots in the oven they will lose all their health benefits. You can make delicious roasted carrots by slicing them lengthwise, adding minced garlic, salt and pepper, and drizzling with olive oil or ghee, and roasting them in the oven until softened. You can find the best quality carrots at your local certified farmers markets. Farmers have heaps of brightly colored carrots at their booths this time of year, so donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t miss out on the abundance of locally grown, sweet and crunchy carrots, while the season lasts.

INGREDIENT OF THE MONTH VIA E M M A H A R R I S For more information, visit the Chico Certified Farmers Market.

mark francis + jolene francis There are many things that bind us to one another. For Mark and Jolene Francis, a love of their community and a mutual commitment to its betterment are two of these things. It doesn’t hurt that they are also madly in love with each other.

power couples With Valentine's Day right around the corner, we thought it fitting, once again, to recognize a handful of our community’s beloved couples. We refer to them as our power couples, not only because of what they have accomplished in business or life, but because each couple agrees that they derive their individual success from the love and support they give to one another. Although there exists countless others like them in our community, we are delighted and blessed to share with you these individual couples and their collective admiration for each other on display, on a daily basis. To every other couple out there that puts as much stock in love and support as these couples do, we wish time and space allowed us to feature you, too. Happy Valentine's Day!

Both native Chicoans, Mark and Jolene followed similar paths growing up—they were born at Enloe Hospital, attended elementary school within one-and-one-half miles of each other, and both graduated from Pleasant Valley High School, though a few years apart. Mark was in the same graduating class as Jolene’s older sister, and Jolene attended their graduation. A well-loved and respected individual, Mark received a standing ovation from students and parents alike when he was called forward as Pleasant Valley’s ASB President. The experience spoke to Jolene, and the memory stuck with her for many years to come. Jolene went on to work for the Bureau of Land Management while Mark earned his degrees in business and finance at Chico State. Their paths diverged for a few years at this point, but they were ultimately brought back together through careers in the banking industry. Jolene took a position as a two-day-per-week teller at Bank of America in 1979, and Mark soon followed as a loan trainee at the Downtown Chico branch. The two first worked together in 1984. Eventually, both Mark and Jolene moved to a small community bank called Tehama Bank, which was ultimately acquired by Humboldt Bank and, later, Umpqua. As Mark notes, “I worked for three different banks over all those years and never had to change my chair.” Their paths crossed countless times over their years in the banking industry. They married on January 11, 2001. In 2004, Mark had grown tired of the big-bank mindset and, having served in many positions, including president. The banks he worked at, knew he could run a

bank himself. He had lunch with his friend, Brian Sweeney, and they floated the idea of starting a local bank together. Brian saw the value and importance of a community bank, so they invited a few other colleagues into the discussion. The idea took off and Jolene stepped in to manage the project. During the initial public offering the group raised $22 million of local money to fund what is now Golden Valley Bank. With a sense of accomplishment that is hard to fathom, Jolene helped move the bank to its successful launch and retired from banking after 28 years in the industry. Mark continued on as the bank’s president and CEO. Jolene began consulting for other organizations and eventually took over as CEO of the Chico Chamber of Commerce during a time of financial difficulty at the Chamber. She spent three years getting the organization financially stable again, and her work did not go unnoticed. One of the board members at the Chico Chamber was also a VP at Enloe Medical Center. In search of someone with her unique skill set, they offered her a position as the director of advancement and communications for Enloe Medical Center. Naturally, she accepted. Over the past seven years Jolene and her team have been responsible for handling all internal and external communication for the 3,400 employee organization, including advertising and marketing. Perhaps her most impressive undertaking, however, has been with the Enloe Foundation, where she has been in charge of raising money and running the charitable arm of the hospital. It became her mission to raise the bar for the necessary financing of the hospital. Over the past seven years, she has grown the internal audience of donors from 120 employees to over 900. Through her leadership, the hospital has raised nearly $14 million, which has given our community access to a new life-saving helicopter, and other important upgrades and advancements. Currently, she’s in the middle of a campaign to fund a new cardiovascular care center and they’re

nearing their $5 million goal to help pay for the $20 million project. The state-of-theart center, once completed, will provide residents with 4 large cath labs, pre- and post-procedure areas, and a dedicated family lounge. The work she’s completing is of utmost importance as Enloe is the STEMI receiving center for six counties and the only level-2 trauma center between Sacramento and Redding. The addition will allow Enloe’s cardiology department to function at an even higher level, opening new opportunities for healing within the community. As president and CEO of Golden Valley Bank, Mark hasn’t skipped a beat either. From 13 employees initially with an asset size of $22 million, Golden Valley Bank has grown to 47 employees, two locations, and $290 million in assets. Though that number is undoubtedly gargantuan for a young community bank, it’s only the beginning, as Mark has no shortage of plans to make it even bigger. The bank currently has $157 million loaned to individuals throughout the community, and none of those loans are past due. That actually may need to be repeated. Not a single dollar of the $157 million loaned to individuals in our community is past due. As Mark puts it, “In 36 years, I’ve found that character is more important than cash flow in paying loans back. Every step of the banking process happens right here in these four walls. We know our customers really well and they know us. It’s allowed us to do a really good job of making the right loans to the right people.” Others agree, as Golden Valley was in 2016 ranked one of the top 200 healthiest banks in America. Mark has also consistently been recognized as a top performer by his peers, including being named community banker of the year by Western Independent Bankers in 2017.

person. She’s a leader in the community and not only brings home the bacon, but fries it in the pan too! She’s so caring and dedicated to her job. We both come home late, but she opens her tablet and gets her emails out there—the hospital is open 24/7. Those kind of qualities are very attractive to me; she has them all and more. Jolene always seems to get everything done. It took me awhile to figure out her secret. Want to know what it is? Magic.” There’s clearly no shortage of that magic between the two of them. When the Camp Fire swept through Paradise, Mark and Jolene immediately responded. With nearly 300 employees of Enloe Medical Center losing their homes, Jolene’s team began a campaign to get them back into stable housing. They then launched fundraising efforts to support patients and employees affected by the fire. The project has been instrumental in helping employees return to a necessary level of stability so they can focus on serving the influx of patients due to the loss of Paradise’s primary hospital. At the Golden Valley Bank Community Foundation, Mark and his team launched

the Camp Fire Relief Fund just hours after the fire erupted. The bank made a $50,000 contribution to the foundation and pays for the entire operation. Mark allocated three staff members to work on the project with him full-time, and the team and their business partners have raised over $5.5 million since its inception. Donations have poured in from across the country, thanks in part to a mention by Chico’s previous mayor, Sean Morgan, on national television. The foundation is set to provide long term relief for victims, and though the actual needs are yet to be assessed, Mark is vehemently committed to being an integral part of the recovery efforts. “We see ourselves as having an obligation to help Paradise rebuild,” Mark said, “and it’s exactly what we’re going to do.” As successful in love as they are in their careers, we can’t help but be inspired by Mark and Jolene Francis. Their commitment to each other has been unwavering and— through their support of one another— they have accomplished incredible things for our community.

Throughout all of their successes, the two have remained fiercely supportive of each other, encouraging one another to reach even higher no matter how lofty the goal. “Mark is incredibly funny and the smartest guy I know!” Jolene said of her husband, “He’s so much fun to be around and I’m always learning something new from him. He’s very caring and compassionate about the people around him and always does the right thing. He’s a good man. Plus, he’s handsome.” Blushing, Mark replied, “Aside from the fact that she’s beautiful, Jolene is also a very strong 53

rashell brobst + dave brobst

Every power couple has a reason to do what they do within their community. For Dave and Rashell Brobst, they’ve dedicated their lives so that no child is forgotten. The work they’ve done together and separately to guarantee this mission is truly incredible, and we’re proud to pay them tribute as one of this year’s power couples. Originally from Hawthorne, California, Rashell moved north to study recreation therapy at Chico State. She joined Community Action Volunteers in Education (CAVE) and fell in love with the mission of the organization, selflessly giving to—and advocating for—the marginalized members of our society. She eventually earned a position as director of the organization before graduating and following her career path to Napa State Hospital, where she used sign language to better reach severely emotionally disturbed children. When the Boys & Girls Club opened in Chico, a friend invited her back, knowing she could make a difference. She was hired there in 1996 and moved in with her college roommate, Robin, determined to make sure no child was left behind. Dave grew up in Chico and attended nearly every school in the North Valley. The son of a banker, the family was constantly on the move as his father transferred from one branch to the next, helping where his skills were needed. The perpetual migration landed Dave in 13 schools over his first 13 years of schooling. When he finally enrolled in Chico State to study electronic engineering, there was undoubtedly a sigh of relief to finally be in the same location for a full four years. Rashell’s roommate, Robin, was also a high school friend of Dave’s, and the two kept in touch through college. As a result, Dave and 54

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Rashell’s paths crossed countless times, but to ensure that every child was reunited with never romantically. Dave was busy working their family. 500 of the regular 2,000 children on growing his electronic engineering who utilize the Boys & Girls Club were directly company, Solutions Cubed, with partners, impacted by the fire, and many more have Frank Rossini and Lon Glazner; while Rashell since joined, in need of their services. was busy saving the world. It was also a well-known fact that Rashell had a penchant To provide for the influx, Rashell and her team for the bad boys, and Dave admittedly was have been locked in overdrive, spinning up new not that. It took eight years, as Dave put it, clubs wherever they can. “It normally takes one for the bar to be set so low by the bad boy year to start a new Club,” Rashell commented, types, that he could finally clear it with ease. “we’ve been starting up clubs within two days Laughing, Rashell replied, “He’s always been to a week to service the Paradise families.” Not the funny one! It’s one of the many reasons only does she have a team of incredible people we finally connected.” The two began dating working on the project in Chico, she’s quick to in 2004 and were married in 2005. point out that she has a rock solid foundation at home. “Dave is not only an incredible dad to Over the last 14 years, each one has seen our children and the most supportive husband,” significant success in their respective fields. Rashell said, “he’s also a bonus dad to so many Solutions Cubed designed the first three others. A lot of people don’t know that he helps solar energy systems for Zola Electric, an so many women in this community, many of African solar startup with a mission to which are friends of ours and single moms who bring clean energy to rural Tanzania and really need it.” Rwanda. The project has been life changing for residents of both areas. Their electrical “She’s the power; I’m the couple.” Dave said, engineering work has been used on the “Every day, she’s helping hundreds of people; International Space Station, the ocean floor, her actions make a positive impact in the and everywhere in between. Hundreds of community. If she and her team didn’t do what thousands of customers’ lives are currently they do, I can’t even imagine the loss. She put made more efficient by the work they’ve together a great team at BGCNV. They’re all done and the patents on inventions they fairly autonomous, but they speak as a unified continue to hold. voice. It really is amazing.” The Boys & Girls Club has grown by leaps and bounds. When Rashell joined the organization, there was one club. She has since grown the offerings to 10 clubs throughout the North Valley, which provide services for over 2,000 children. She has also been responsible for raising millions of dollars, since she took over as CEO, to guarantee that those services continue to be provided.

Rashell continued, “We divide and conquer. When there’s a crisis, he supports me. He’s my rock—knowing he’s there allows me to do my thing. It takes a strong man to be able to handle all of that. He pays attention to our kids and always keeps our friends in mind. Life’s hard but you don’t need to make it harder. We never make each other’s lives more difficult and do our best to take stress off the other’s shoulders. We make a great team!”

Those numbers changed dramatically, however, over the course of one day. On November 8th, the number of clubs went from 10 to 5, as half of the Boys & Girls Clubs of the North Valley were located in Paradise. The Boys & Girls Club in Chico became a primary staging site for children bussed from schools around Paradise, and the club extended its hours to midnight

At a time when our community has needed it most, Rashell, Dave, and the team at BGCNV have more than done their part to help everyone back on their feet, and there’s no shortage of power needed to make that type of impact. As Dave and Rashell are quick to point out, neither would have the ability to do what they do without the love and support of each other.

melinda benson + alexa valavanis A Chico Native, Melinda Benson was born at Enloe Hospital and attended Paradise Adventist Academy before finding her way to Pacific Union College and Loma Linda University to study speech pathology. Fascinated with the role speech plays in human development, she fell in love with the subject and found that it also fulfilled her need to help others as part of her life’s work. After graduating, she moved to Chico and opened her private practice. Wanting to maintain a balance between career work and fun, she decided to open a business on Main Street working with flowers, one of her lifelong passions. She named it M Creations, and it was here, by serendipity, that she and Alexa Valavanis happened to meet. Originally from Valparaiso, Indiana, Alexa moved to Agoura Hills, California at the age of 10. She was recruited to play basketball at Chico State with her twin sister, Alisha, and studied journalism during her time there, but felt a calling to help reduce suffering in the world. She followed that calling and provided humanitarian aid throughout Asia and the jungles of Guatemala before returning to Chico, where she was ultimately hired by North Valley Community Foundation as their new president and CEO in 2005. She redeveloped the program and set out to end suffering by whatever means possible. Alexa wandered into Melinda’s store in the summer of 2010. “I felt like I was walking into a part of my home.” Alexa said, “I was intrigued by the space, and even more so by Melinda right away. She was stunning. There were buddha statues, decorative sayings everywhere, and I left buying two huge bags full of items that matched my home perfectly. Everything about it felt right.” As it turned out, Alexa’s twin sister, Alisha, knew Melinda through mutual friends, and thought the two would get along swimmingly. She invited Melinda to join herself and Alexa at Café Flo, next to the Pageant Theater, for some live music and dinner afterward. Though the three had gone out together, Alisha still jokes that

they completely forgot she was with them. “I remember thinking that I had always known her.” Melinda said, “When we sat and had conversations, there was a connection that I’d never had with anyone before. It felt like it was pre-written.” Alexa finished, while gazing at Melinda across the sofa, “It was always you.” The two were engaged in January 2011, five short months after they began dating, and married in September of the same year. “Melinda is a lot of fun,” Alexa continued, “and I just wanted to be with her. We laughed and played a lot, but there was a depth to the connection. She was everything. I imagined having a family with her from the moment we had our first date. She lived in the country and had animals. She talked a life that I knew I always wanted. Most importantly, she’s the most thoughtful and loving person I’ve ever met. I’m sure some of my Greek ways challenge her patience, but she has always been kind, loving, and patient with me. I realized right away that she was going to be one of my favorite teachers.” In January 2014, Melinda and Alexa welcomed their first baby, Huxlee, into the world. With the way the conversation shifted, it was evident that his arrival changed both of their lives forever. In near unison, the two began discussing Hux amongst themselves, “There’s so much joy that oozes out of his soul. He’s literally the best thing that could happen to anyone. Being a parent is the most challenging and rewarding thing. We have the same childcentered focus and we see raising him as a spiritual practice. He has his own being and has so much to teach us, just as we have so much to teach him. He’s the most important thing in our lives, and we soak up every moment with him.” With the level of agreement between the two, and nearly every word being delivered in stereo, it’s impossible to specifically attribute any part of the preceding quote to one or the other.

her commitment to speech pathology and focus on raising him at home. Her time as a speech pathologist was perhaps one of the best precursors to becoming a parent, as she worked with preschoolers five days a week for 10 years. The experience honed the tools necessary to become the best possible parent that she could be. Melinda continues to run M Creations from their ranch as a full-service florist, allowing her to express herself artistically through a medium she has loved since childhood. Alexa has now been with North Valley Community Foundation for 14 years. She has taken her original journey to reduce suffering in the world and grown it into a foundation that spans nearly every continent. Her efforts to amplify human kindness and generosity have helped raise $140 million dollars for those who need it most, with $25 million of those monies being raised for the victims of the Camp Fire since November 8th, 2018 alone. She is currently working on a new initiative—in collaboration with Sierra Nevada Brewing Company—called the Butte Strong Fund, which aims to kickstart housing, youth services, and assistance for those who have endured trauma as a result of the fire. As two individuals who embody the power of love, and have looked to love for guidance in each and everything they have chosen to do, it is no surprise that we hail them as one of our favorite power couples

Eight years have passed since the two met at M Creations. With Huxlee in the mix, Melinda decided to step away from 55

laura cootsona + greg cootsona It may be too much to say Laura and Greg Cootsona, out of love for one another, have followed each other to the ends of the earth and back, but they’ve certainly come close. Their commitment to each other, and their shared faith, have forged a bond that has guided them in the right direction for decades, providing resources for countless people in need. Both Greg and Laura hail from the Bay Area and have been on the same track their entire lives. The two met in high school, but spent a number of years apart while Laura studied abroad in Italy and Vermont. She transferred to Berkeley when Greg was a junior, and they picked up right where they left off. A couple short years of dating ensued, and they realized they were undoubtedly made for one another. The two were married before Laura entered her senior year at Berkeley.

Bay Area, where Laura earned her degree in nonprofit administration at University of San Francisco. Greg took the opportunity to start his PhD, and they welcomed their first daughter into the world. Asked about the constant movement, Greg replied, “We were a couple with two interests and two paths, but constantly working on how to bring them together.” Laura continued, “We were both starting to think about children, and we also had our careers to consider. It’s difficult to figure which person to follow if you both want to pursue things. We knew we were more as a couple than either one of us separately, and we both felt called to make sure the other was the best they could be.” Greg finished,

“The bottom line of every good relationship is whether you feel more alive with the person you’re with and whether you’re able After college, the two moved to the Berkeley to be yourself. If you feel more alive, and hills, adopted two felines and opened a high- can celebrate one another, then you’re on end retail store selling active sportswear and the right path. We could, so we took the hard goods to tennis aficionados in Marin time to work on it and support each other County. Greg knew the ins and outs of the no matter the case.” business long before starting the venture, as his family had worked in the same retail Greg and Laura moved once again to New space for several years. The store did well York for Greg’s first church call, the Fifth and was like getting an MBA in practice, Avenue Presbyterian Church in Manhattan. but he felt like something was missing. They lived in two of five floors at an old Compelled to study theology, he discussed brownstone row house and gave birth to his feelings with Laura, and they decided to their second daughter there. Greg took on sell the business to family members before the responsibilities of his new position as moving to Princeton, where he began his pastor of education and Laura continued studies at seminary. working in the non-profit sector. They remained in New York City for six years— Laura began working in the non-profit field living through the tragedy of 9/11—before an while living in Princeton and found that opportunity arose at Bidwell Presbyterian she not only had a knack for the work, but Church in Chico. Thinking of the family as was also passionate about its positive a whole, and considering the best place to implications for the world around her. She raise their children, Greg and Laura decided decided to find a way to make a career of it. to make one final move to Chico. Greg finished seminary and had an incredible opportunity to work alongside a professor he admired overseas. As supportive as ever, Laura encouraged him to follow his path, and the two moved to Germany. They lived there for one year, before returning to the

Upon arrival in 2002, Greg began his work as an associate pastor at Bidwell Presbyterian while Laura decided to build a non-profit consulting firm of her own. “No one knew who I was.” Laura stated, “So I started working at the Jesus Center as an associate

director. Working with the nearby nonprofits put me on the map locally, while the other half of my clients were across the country. I was training nonprofits on fundraising, marketing, and board development to help build healthier organizations. Eventually, I met Alexa at North Valley Community Foundation (NVCF), and she asked me to work with her to design philanthropy programs within the foundation. The job was amazing. I really loved working with philanthropists and giving their money to those who needed it most!” Laura’s work at NVCF didn’t go unnoticed. In the fall of 2015, the Jesus Center’s board of directors offered her the position of executive director. She discussed the opportunity with Greg and both knew it was the right move. “I felt like it was the biggest thing I’d ever do in my life,” Laura said, “and we’ve made all of our big decisions together. There’s never been one that we haven’t both agreed upon.” Laura accepted the position and has been at the Jesus Center ever since.

In regards to what attracted each to the other initially, Greg responded, “She was and is such a beautiful woman. Her integrity was really evident to me from the start. We met in our late teens, and I found everything about her to be compelling—just the way she lived so full of joy and humor, committed to really enjoying life.” Laura continued, “Greg really stood out in the crowd. He was super bright and inquisitive! We went to Tower Records for our first date and he had a whole mixtape playing in his mustang. He analyzed every song with me—his depth and intelligence were really incredible. He was fun but mature at the same time—super cerebral and serious, but he

was also in a fraternity. Being only 17, I didn’t even know who I was looking for, but it was definitely him.” Regarding advice for other couples, both Greg and Laura agree, “You have to create space and make time for each other. Love is time, and you need both quantity and quality time together. Continue dating and wooing each other. Find work that brings you joy, and celebrate big and little events alike.” Luckily for our community, the time and attention they’ve shared with each other has benefitted us all.

The two have made giant strides in their respective fields and, while doing so, have garnered the respect of their peers. Over the years, Greg has managed two large grant projects, totaling $4 million, focused on integrating and connecting religion and science in churches throughout the country. He spends a good deal of time writing and traveling to speak on the topic. After years interacting with professors at both Butte College and Chico State, Greg was invited to become a lecturer during the fall of 2014 in religion and humanities. Laura has continued to develop the Jesus Center while spearheading fundraising efforts to grow its services and offerings, especially after the tragedy in Paradise. Most recently, Laura brokered a deal with Walmart for a $1 million grant to help house the most vulnerable in our community. Asked how they’ve remained so close for so long, Laura replied, “We have a lot of similar passions and interests. We’re both committed to serving others and giving whatever we can of ourselves to the world in hopes of making it a better place. The call to be involved with people on the margins is really critical.” Greg continues, “Laura is a doer. She just runs right in and does stuff. I love that about her. We’ve both learned to put ourselves where we’re best suited to make the world a better place, and that shared commitment on top of so many other things has really strengthened our bond.” 57

Normandy. The idea was to publish books featuring the works of each member. The funding raised had but a single purpose, to allow the collective to move forward doing what they wanted to do, “at the highest level.” Crucial Times collective embraced this idea and planned out the publishing of five different volumes. Volume I was released in June of 2018, with the theme of music. Each member was asked to submit ten photos, each of which captured the mood and energy of their favorite live musicians. The book definitely supported the diversity of the groups’ approach and perspective. It was comprised of 50 pages with two photographs per page and no byword. Released online, it immediately sold out. The funds mirrored the same purpose as Magnum Photo Collective.

CRUCIAL TIMES CALLS FOR

Critically Acclaimed Photographs The Chico photography collective consists of seven artists whose individual talents abounds with diversity. They discovered each other mostly taking photos at shows. California Travis, the acknowledged leader, is credited with literally collecting them all up into the group known as “Crucial Times.” Travis “grabbed this name” from the title of a one minute song from a live Punk rock band concert. The group has been together for two years now and meets once a week at the Blackbird Cafe. They collectively site numerous benefits from these get togethers beyond the bonds of friendship and laughter and inside jokes; such as sharing equipment and ideas, pooling things when necessary, and simply learning so much from each other. Michelle 58

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Camy, Miles Claibourn, John Simcox, Bryan Hannah, and Sean Mellon joined Travis and are grateful for the resulting formation of the Crucial Times Photography Collective. When the artists formed the group in 2017, they believed there must be other ways to showcase their talents beyond wall displays in local coffee joints and other small venues. Travis gained the inspiration to answer this question from another photography collective. The Magnum Photo Collective had published books, featuring work from its members. It was widely known that your work “had to be good” just to be in the collective itself. The international members included the likes of Robert Kappa, who captured the first photos from the attack on

They are excited about the reveal of Volume II, now ready for purchase. The book release party and related photography show will be at the Blackbird Cafe on February 2nd at 6:00 p.m. The show will be up and available for viewing the entire month of February. The theme for Volume II is Film Photography, that is, only cameras with rolls of film can be used, clearly eschewing digital images. The group agreed that this is a good way to show our “mettle,” as well as “our understanding of exposure and composition.” The words ‘challenging’ and ‘more expensive’ were bantered about; along with the realization that without a pointed theme like music, this left the individual spreads wide open. Interestingly enough, in their own introductory words from Volume I, the members of Crucial Times Collective admitted being “unafraid and drawn to the subversive and transgressive.” As photographers, they understood the fact that they “document what we find meaningful, unusual, emotional, inspiring, bold, beautiful, mysterious, powerful, and intriguing.” With that gauntlet thrown down, each member was excited at the prospect of just what their fellow photographers would produce. No two of them used the same kind of camera. Certainly not guest photographer Garrett Meyers of Redding, and his 100 year old Graflex camera. Garret completely refurbished this beauty with its wooden outer shell. What was shared between the

entire group about the use of film was the “high risk, high reward’ of each and every shot, coupled with the unknown quality until the developed roll emerged. One other consensus appeared to be the reality of taking more time before clicking and “really think about it.” The final matter proved getting the rolls of film developed as no where in Chico can this be done. Garrett and John solved this by developing their pictures in their bathtubs. The proofs appear “like magic, rising out of the dark into all their beauty.” The others sent theirs away to LA and waited anxiously for their return. This led to the real challenge. The decision of which prints make the book. Unlike Volume I, this edition called for twenty pictures from each member. Travis admitted he “got a lot of trash back, as you just don’t

know.” John said he “picked the 20 shots from hundreds of rolls.” All in all, each artist ultimately decided on, and submitted their portfolio. To their surprise, the end result between the collective members turned out to be how each artist’s “talent was exposed and just how awesome everybody was!” It provided a glimpse of “what’s important to us, that is, each one of us.” The totality of the book’s work became naturally autobiographical of each contributor, providing a inherent way to “tell a stranger about such personal work.” Not surprisingly, the photos truly documented what this talented collective finds and captures, from meaningful to intriguing, unusual to powerful, emotional to mysterious, inspiring to beautiful, and certainly bold, in their collective unaffected, fearless manner.

North State Symphony "Soloistic Sensations" Saturday, February 23 7:30 p.m. Laxson Auditorium

WRITTEN BY KEVIN DOLAN PHOTOS PROVIDED BY CRUCIAL TIMES PHOTOGRAPHY COLLECTIVE

With all the ups and downs of 2018, two things have remained constant: our music, and your support! Now more than ever, music is vital to our community. Music feeds the soul, transports us from the troubles of the day, and gives moments of peace from the noises of life. In February, we'll be back in the concert halls for a performance that highlights the skill and artistry of our young local soloists. Every year, college and high school student musicians from across the north state compete in the North State Symphony Young Artist Auditions for a chance to perform a solo with the symphony. On Sunday February 17, you can attend (for free!) the 2019 Auditions and hear amazing young musical talent. And on Saturday February 23 in Chico, and Sunday February 24 in Redding, the winners from the 2018 Auditions will perform concertos for piano and marimba with the symphony! As our community rebuilds and recovers from the recent wildfires, we hope that the music of the North State Symphony brings you joy and peace in the coming months. We are proud to be a part of the north state's healing process, and honored to bring music to our community. Thank you for supporting us and for attending our concerts —you keep the music going! NORTH STATE SYMPHONY 400 W. First Street CSU, Chico, CA 95929–0805 530.898.5984 | northstatesymphony.org

WRITTEN BY EMILY LEBLANC PHOTOS BY FRANK REBELO

"We're Here to Help" Campaign Immediate and Long-Term Relief for Animals and their People

Butte Humane Society (BHS) is adding services aimed at reducing the strain on those impacted by the fire. Our animals transform our houses into homes. Helping people keep and care for their animals is vital to rebuilding the feelings of stability and “home” so many have lost. BHS recognizes that the new normal our community needs must include the animals we love. BHS Pet Food & Supply Pantry: Contributions from around the country enabled BHS to provide no-cost pet food and supplies to thousands of families impacted by the fire. Currently located at 1356 Longfellow, this pantry will continue until demand subsides. BHS Low Cost Veterinary Clinic: Our clinic on 587 Country Drive is providing no-cost core vaccines, microchips, health exams and others services throughout 2019 to families impacted by the fire. Crisis Resource Coordinator (CRC): BHS has started a position assisting families with their animal needs and questions. The CRC is needed not only for catastrophic events like the fire, but also for the personal hardships that happen in all families. Disaster Preparedness: BHS started a Disaster Preparedness program for families with animals in case of an evacuation situation. This includes developing a curriculum for children, as well as creating "go bags" that help families be “pet prepared" in case of emergency. These and other services are being added to our relief efforts. For more information, please call 530.343.7917 x 140 or email help@buttehumane.org. BUTTE HUMANE SOCIETY Low-Cost Spay & Neuter Clinic 587 Country Drive, Chico, CA 95928 530.343.7917 x 202

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The Beauty of Nature & Ceramics Walking into the Chico Paper Company, you will be stunned by the wide array of artistic skill displayed in varying exhibits. Photographs of Northern California’s natural beauty line the walls. Hand-crafted jewelry shimmers in the light. Various types of gorgeous woodwork demand a spot in your home. Colorful paintings and drawings will bring a smile to your face. Andrew Urlie’s graceful nature-inspired ceramics are a must-see the next time you visit. Andrew, who worked as a California State Park Ranger for 32 years, loves to incorporate nature into his pieces. His ceramic works are decorated with wood designs and incense cedar bough imprints. Combined with a natural color scheme, the pottery will remind you of the refreshing beauty of your last hiking trip. Studying science in college, Andrew would take one fun elective each semester to ease his mind. When he took a ceramics class, Andrew knew he had found what he loved. Thereafter, Andrew would find pottery courses to take at different colleges wherever his career led him. Andrew credits his artistic creativity as “one little piece of each of those teachers before me, and it collectively made the artist I am now.” Though the artwork has grown more creative over the years, Andrew loves that his pottery can be functional art. “Art you can use in your everyday living just feels better and looks better,” Andrew said. He crafts mugs, plates, platters, saucers, and dishes that are dishwasher and oven safe. He also creates colorful and detailed art platters for fellow artists.

An inspiration to Andrew is that he can grow from the feedback of his peers. When his friends, family, or other artists come to him with suggestions, he listens and crafts his next collection to meet their needs. When a fellow artist needed bowls for her knitting thread and needles, Andrew designed new bowls so her artwork could sit within his artwork. Andrew encourages anyone interested in ceramics to pursue the craft. He truly believes that “art improves the quality of our lives.” With Andrew’s artistic connection with nature and peaceful attitude, he could be Chico’s own version of Bob Ross. Ceramics clutter Andrew's home, and he wouldn't want it any other way. He loves that every surface contains a piece of artwork. When his friends come over, they know exactly which mugs match their hands. They each have their favorite designs and patterns. “Working with clay is my hobby, my business, and my therapy,” Andrew said. And a must-see next time you are near Chico Paper Company.

Forgot to grab a magazine? All of our previous publications can be found on issuu.com!

COMMUNITY CALENDAR FEBRUARY 2

Bob Marley Tribute, Feat. Sol Horizon and Triple Tree Tackle Box, Chico 9:00 p.m.–1:00 a.m. Info: Kicking off Bob Marley's birthday week Sol Horizon and Chico CA natives Triple Tree are proud to celebrate the life and legacy of Bob Marley with two full sets of classic music from Bob Marley and the Wailers. Let's come together to celebrate the music and the message that defines what reggae is all about.

to 1,794 kids and 481 displaced Paradise youth offering professional crisis counseling, disaster relief and recovery for them and their families.

Chico Children’s Museum Gala Butte Creek Country Club, Chico 5:30–11:00 p.m. Cost: $100–$1,200 Info: The Chico Children’s Museum will host its “hip” annual gala, With a Little Help From Our Friends, inspired by the Beatles. We will be hanging out in our mop-tops, grooving to the band “Decades”, and devouring food from the Butte Creek Country Club, dessert from local bakeries, and a no-host bar. There will be a live auction, raffle for fun local prizes and more!This event is for the grown ups... but by attending, you’re helping the kids!

The Kelly Twins Dueling Pianos Palomino Room, Red Bluff 7:00–9:00 p.m. Info: Making our debut in Red Bluff!! Come join us for an evening of all request music and celebration.

Crucial Times Photography Collective Book Release Party & Photography Show Blackbird Cafe, Chico 6:00 p.m. with DJ Info: Show will be up through February. Life By Moonlight: Night Hike Chico Creek Nature Center, Chico 8:00–9:30 p.m. Info: The moon affects more than just the ocean tides; it affects all living things. Come discover Bidwell Park at night! We've lined up night hikes to correspond to the different moon phases, so you can experience the full spectrum of the Park at night.

FEBRUARY 9

20th Annual Valentine’s Gala Manzanita Place, Chico 5:30–10:00 p.m. Info: We feel it is important to bring everyone together in order to show the strength we now have to continue moving forward and putting kids first. After the Camp Fire, we opened our doors all day 62

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The special evening includes live music, champagne reception, passed hors d’oeuvres, catered dinner, two bottles of wine per table, cash bar, dessert, a special presentation, a boutique high end & silent auction and a one-of-a-kind live auction. More info, bgcnv.org

FEBRUARY 10

Poppin’: The Story of Blue Note Records Laxson Auditorium, Chico 7:30–9:30 p.m. Cost: $15–$38 Info: Join Jazz Reach, as they present a multimedia musical concert that looks at the impact of Blue Note Records as they discuss album art, archived photography, recording techniques, and other stories from the record label's rich history. More info, csuchico.edu/upe/performance/

FEBRUARY 14 VALENTINE’S DAY

FEBRUARY 17

Argus Quartet Laxson Auditorium, Chico 2:00–4:00 p.m. Cost: $15–$36 Info: First prize winners at both the 2017 Concert Artists Guild Victor Elmaleh Competition and the 2017 M-Prize Chamber Arts Competition, the Argus Quartet made their Carnegie Hall debut in May of 2018. These dynamic musicians are dedicated to honoring the storied chamber music traditions of our past while forging a new path forward. They are the graduate quartet in residence at the Juilliard School and have been praised for the expressiveness, authority, and humor in concerts. More info, csuchico.edu/upe/performance/

FEBRUARY 18 PRESIDENT’S DAY

FEBRUARY 22–24

Chico Sportsman's Expo Silver Dollar Fairgrounds, Chico Friday: noon–6 pm., Saturday: 9:00 a.m.–6:00 p.m. Sunday: 9:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m. Cost: $5, 12 & under Free, Veterans Free on Sunday Info: chicosportsmansexpo.com

FEBRUARY 23

Comedy Night! Ft. Harland Williams El Rey Theater, Chico 7:30–10:00 p.m. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. Cost: $25–$35, eventbrite.com Info: Comedian and Actor Harland Williams is known the world over for his hilarious movie roles and outlandish stand up and sketch comedy routines. Poppy The Senator Theatre, Chico 9:00 p.m.–1:00 am., Doors open at 8:00 p.m. Cost: $20 Info: Tickets on sale October 5th. Ribs for the Ridge Sierra Steel Harley Davidson, Chico 12:00–5:00 p.m. Info: The men and women of the Active 20–30 Club of Chico #100, in partnership with the Chico BBQ Enthusiasts, will be hosting “Ribs for the Ridge”. Ribs for the Ridge is a 10 team rib cook-off with an Anchor Steam beer garden, raffle, and much more. All proceeds will be going to support the fire victims of the Camp Fire.

FEBRUARY 24

2019 Durham Almond Blossom 5/10K Run Durham High School, Durham 9:00 a.m. Cost: $40–$50 Info: Join us for our 2019 Almond Blossom Run 5k/10k in lovely downtown Durham. It’s not just another run in the park. Course will close 2 hours after start time. Pets are not permitted on the course; strollers and baby joggers must start at the back of the participant pack. More info, durhamsportsboosters.com

No Story Is A Straight Line.

The geometry of a human life is too imperfect and complex, too distorted by the laughter of time and the bewildering intricacies of fate to admit the straight line into its system of laws. –Beach Music by Pat Conroy

I confess I spent time seeing if the word ‘yoga’ is an acronym. It’s not. If it were, the path to telling Chelsea West’s story would prove clearer. Her path, thus far, contains both clutter and clear motive. Throughout our conversation, the notion of Chelsea as a bohemian, and her story as a rhapsody, rang with possibility. Chelsea “believes that you should be judged by who you are, not what happens to you.” She is delightfully bohemian with her informal, inventive, and progressive approach to life. You feel it when she speaks with intention in her eyes and softness in her smile. Her awareness that “trauma can change your DNA,” pushes her life as a rhapsody, packed with its highly contrasting moods, color, and stress. Her focus of “being vs doing” helps to unfold the story as her very own ‘Bohemian Rhapsody.’ One that is episodic, complete with spontaneous structure, allowing for a free flowing form and ending with Chelsea as a worldly vanguard. Chelsea grew up with her mother and two younger brothers, attending Chico High; but as rhapsodies go, she ventured to Santa Cruz to begin her college experience. An anatomy class sparked the idea of nursing and inspired her return home to pursue that degree. College life included the necessary practice of yoga. She discovered early the need for “self care.” The most difficult aspects of each yoga pose were struck through her natural strength and balance. The demands of nursing school followed suit and Chelsea adopted the same disciplined approach. As nursing and yoga came full circle into the idea of holistic, multicultural, and women’s health, she had her eyes set on labor and delivery. However, coaxing from an instructor pointed the way to the emergency room. Upon completion, Chelsea accepted a job at Feather River hospital in Paradise. Though intimidating, she felt like the ER was “meant to be.”

Settling into the structure of her new schedule opened a new door. With no real intention to become a yoga instructor, she spent one week in Belize, and the following month, a week in Tulum, to complete the required 200 hours. She looked at this training as exposing herself. To her surprise, it revealed a deeper understanding of ‘self.’ Yoga, therefore, in bohemian fashion, became both a diversion and deflection. Fortunately, Chelsea decided to teach. She is described as an instructor who goes beyond “teaching a class.” The key to her success is her ‘advanced practice’ becoming the norm, making it safe to try the “hard poses.” As an accessible instructor, she has a natural flair for balancing the individuals in each class. Chelsea is known for being beyond encouraging, more close to edifying, her nudges become uplifting. Chelsea the ER nurse and Chelsea the yoga instructor became one on the first Thursday of November, 2018. Her rhapsody exploded into a full contrast of mixed moods, infernal color, and ultimate stress. By now, her harrowing story has been broadcasted on major network news. Chelsea, three of her nursing colleagues, a sheriff deputy, and a highway patrol officer abandoned their disabled vehicle and ran for their lives; surrounded by flames and unable to breathe. Out of nowhere, a bulldozer appeared, miraculously spotted them, and plowed them back to the hospital. They all survived, leaving Chelsea with the twofold dilemma of survivor guilt and new found grief. The need for ‘self care’ has become even greater with the hope that when she closes her eyes, she stops seeing flames. She remains genuinely enamored at the opportunity to join Bernie Sanders in DC while she now has difficulty remembering when “things were easy.” Ambivalence now accompanies strength. Time will turn this around, leaving Chelsea to fight her war her way. 63