Upgraded Living March 2019 by Upgraded Living

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FROM THE EDITOR March indeed. March on, putting one foot in front of the other. March right on to March 10th and relish in the extended hour each evening

UPGRADED LIVING STAFF

to enjoy the back deck or front porch. March right past the 15 , as the th

Ides of March should not be feared, or cause unnecessary concern,

AVEED KHAKI Publisher/Owner

as painted by Shakespeare himself. March with a bit of jig-in-yourstep on the 17th celebrating the Irish and their gleeful approach to

KEVIN DOLAN Editor-in-Chief

everyday life. March away from old man winter and literally lock step your way to the first day of Spring, marked this year as March 20 , th

12:15 p.m. Northern California often has a gentle way of ushering in the welcoming onset of a change in the weather, sometimes tiptoeing rather than marching. March head on into the madness. March to the beat of your favorite school’s theme song. March straight through the

NERISSA QUINN

JESSICA DOLAN CLARENDON

Production Director

Writer

maybe trade even further into Cinderella’s glass slipper and ride the

JASON CORONA

STACY WALLACE

wild ride to the finals. Embrace the mania for its purity, its innocence,

Sales Director

Writer

KERILYNN ANDERSON

EMILY TEAGUE

Account Executive

Photographer

marching through March melee. From cover to cover, attractions for all

DARREN MICHELS

FRANK REBELO

abound. You can take a stroll down aisle 17 in the Mangrove Safeway

Product Integration & Mobility Strategy

Photographer

bracket without fear or hesitation. Perhaps trade your marching boots for dance shoes and celebrate all newcomers to the dance. Just

its drama, and magic. For now anyway. Our March issue offers a similar pinball game spattering as my above

with none other than Dave the Wine Guy. Learn how to reduce your stress by gardening, rid yourself of acne scarring, or pick out the

EMILY HUSO

perfect exterior color for your home. You will grow in appreciation

Writer

upon discovering all the hard work our Butte Environmental Council manages to accomplish. Our cover story introduces you to Ben Eckstrom and the remarkable things his Proframe company is doing

KELSEY VEITH Photographer

EMILY LEBLANC Writer

around this town. If you are an artist struggling to recover from the

EMMA HOPPOUGH

Camp Fire, you will find tips on getting the proper assistance. You

Writer

MICHAEL MEJIA Photographer MICHELLE CAMY Photographer

can even learn how peas are good for both you and the soil. I am personally delighted to hear they are good for the soil. The third installment of the Backpage featuring “No Story is a straight line…” dives head on into the bonds of friendship. As all stories selected for this, the more you peel away the layers, the more

CONTRIBUTORS

amazing and captivating each piece becomes. Follow this with the necessity of “stripping the text clean” and the resulting starkness only adds to the story. You will meet Chris Bodney and Miles Bell and get to the core of a bond not soon to be broken. Enjoy. On to April and its early tomfoolery, middle settling of those ‘Ides’ mentioned earlier, and the late ushering away from sprinkles, wind, and final remnants of winter.

AARON J. STEWART

LEXIE ACEVES

Estate Planning

Teacher Q&A

BETTY FOWLER

LITTLE RED HEN

Health

Garden Advice

CHICO DESIGN CENTER

RENEE MICHEL

Interior Design

& JOE SWEENEY

DR. KAFELE HODARI Health

Finance RON’S REPTILES

DR. VIMALI PAUL, M.D. Skin Care

Community SHELBY CHASE

KRISTINA MICHELLE

Human Resources

Beauty

Kevin Dolan Editor-in-Chief

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

CONTENTS MARCH 2019 COMMUNITY

FOOD

10 Meet Cool Kid Annaliese Rauscher

54 Salivate and surrender to Shelley’s

of Paradise’s Ponderosa Elementary braving her way through her school in a different town.

11 Get a glimpse into the life of Dave the Wine

Gluten Free Peanut Butter- Chocolate Chip Cookies.

59 Find out how, as a legume, peas are good for both you and the soil.

Guy, Safeway’s Savvy Sommelier.

63 Our Editor-in-Chief celebrates lifelong friends who certainly qualify for the theme “No story is a straight line…”.

ARTS 58 Learn ways to recover as an artist from the Camp Fire.

HEALTH & BEAUTY 24 Reduce the stress in your life while

60 Take a peek in to Bill DiGrazia’s photography world, including his popular “building series.”.

improving its quality, simply by gardening.

26 Tips to get rid of acne scarring.

FEATURE

28 Transition your daytime attire to evening

20 Anyone who has enjoyed our clean

with the proper accessories.

HOME & GARDEN 40 How to choose the proper palette for the exterior of your house.

46 Discover what are the best plants to decorate your patio.

ON THE COVER: PROFRAME CONSTRUCTION DESIGN BY: NERISSA QUINN

56 8

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waterways, community gardens, tall oak trees, and eco-friendly events has appreciated the hard work of Butte Environmental Council.

37 Our cover story celebrates the Proframe family and its far reaching realm in the local construction business.

Anneliese went to school on November 8, 2018, though the sky was smokey and gray. Without any evacuation notices or warnings, it seemed as though the fire was contained. Within the hour, the fire had consumed their neighborhood and her family had to evacuate. One of the most frightening parts was when her family was stuck in traffic with the fire quickly approaching. Anneliese recalls cars catching fire only a few yards behind them. Her family made the decision to move into the oncoming traffic lane. Later, they decided to travel up the shoulder to get to safety, encouraging others to follow. Fortunately, Anneliese and her family made it to safety. Anneliese and her family recently moved into their new house in Chico. They had been staying in various hotels and motels. The commute to school was as long as an hour and a half when they were staying in Roseville. Anneliese said that she enjoys Chico so far but she missed seeing snow on her birthday, which was on December 6.

COOL KID

ANNELIESE RAUSCHER You would never suspect what these children have been through when looking at the joint classroom of Ponderosa Elementary School’s fourth and fifth graders, located at Durham Elementary. Everyone is laughing and smiling, talking respectfully, and enjoying class. This shows how strong and resilient these students are since their school was evacuated during the Camp Fire. Many of these students lost their homes. Anneliese Rauscher exemplifies these qualities perfectly, as one of the most respectful students at Ponderosa. In September, Anneliese was one of the winners of Ponderosa’s 3 B’s award. This award recognizes students who go above and beyond the school’s core principles 10

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Anneliese is a very positive girl who was ecstatic to be able to return to school on December 3 so she could see all her friends again. She enjoys dancing, a sport she’s been participating in for about seven years. Anneliese said, “I like the aspect of expressing yourself.” She also enjoys making artwork, specifically doing sketches on her tablet. A motivated learner, Anneliese enjoys math, history, and social studies. Mrs. Holman said that “if Anneliese doesn’t get something, she’ll work until she does.” She credits most of her passion for learning to Mrs. Holman, who always makes learning fun. This very cool kid is extremely respectful, responsible and caring. She hopes to study astronomy when she grows up. With her passion and resilience, her dreams are sure to come true. 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.

WRITTEN BY EMILY LEBLANC PHOTO BY MICHELLE CAMY

of being safe, respectful, and responsible. Anneliese’s teacher, DeAnna Holman, said, “Anneliese is articulate, funny, and kind.” Mrs. Holman particularly admires Anneliese’s strength.

WRITTEN BY KEVIN DOLAN

wine aisle, a subject he knew nothing about, admitting he did not know a chardonnay from a cabernet. Along with the placement in the wine aisle came corporate support of ongoing education for each sommelier at select Safeway stores. There are currently 75–100 of these in Northern California. Dave is quick to praise Safeway and has so much gratitude towards this educational opportunity. He claims that the “seminars, six to eight weeks per year, are huge.” Dave enjoys the interaction with the customers admitting it “gives me energy, paying attention to each individual customer’s palette.” He explains that it has to be “theirs not mine” adding, there is no reason “to throw anyone into the deep end.” He has trained himself to listen to what he says as he coaxes folks from the the single bottle purchase to the six pack. He has grown to understand the dollar difference “makes me get pushy.” The degree of animation in his actions and spark in his eyes intensifies when he speaks about helping people save money and drink good wine.

Safeway's Savvy Sommelier In the Mangrove Avenue Safeway, on aisle 17, Dave Mettler is both feared and revered. Myriad Chico shoppers enter the store and, either glance down the aisle to see if Dave is stalking it and head to produce, or rush right into the teeth of aisle 17, hoping Dave is present with his ever-ready six pack holder. The truth is Dave the Wine Guy should absolutely be sought for both the dollars saved, as well as the delightfully entertaining and informative exchange that will surely take place. The entertainment due mainly to his glib manner and legitimate sense of humor. The informative nature

of each visit just took an elevated step as Dave recently passed the test given by the Wine and Spirit Education Trust resulting in the WEST Level 1 award in wines. In short, he is well on his way of becoming a full fledged ‘sommelier.’ The journey, however, was anything but short. Dave came to Chico in 1970, graduated from Pleasant Valley in 1974, took his first grocery job at Shop-n-Save in 1983 and then landed at the Mangrove Safeway in 1988. The store, at the time, was housed in what is now Sports LTD. Dave’s job included the

Interesting to wonder how any negativity be attached to any of this. Dave simply does not harangue any customer. He has been witnessed steering a chardonnay lover with a low budget to the bottom shelf of wines explaining, “that one will give you a headache, but these two are great and the six pack price is worth it, allowing you to get a single upscale bottle as a treat.” Worth noting, in 2018, Mangrove Safeway was the retail wine cellar of the year. In addition, Dave spent time in Bend, Oregon becoming their first wine guy. He soon set the record for six pack sales per week for all of Oregon and Washington. Northern California does not track this. Best of all, Dave gives complete credit to corporate Safeway saying, “It’s not me; it is all about the education.” The actual truth is, those shoppers, do not fear Dave; they may just want a bottle and be on their way. He’s ok with that. The other truth remains in those who gladly seek his knowledge and save, not just money, but also the sting of having to drink the same old wine over and over. Dave is ok with that as well. Though Dave will tell you it is not about him, the ultimate truth is Dave has a skill set not easy to replace. He does know this because he revealed “Passing that test was—whoa, this is seriously hard stuff.” Good thing he has such a great sense of humor.

First three songs listed on my life playlist: Pop-see-ko, Awesome Rainbows, and Dinosaur Stomp all performed by Koo Koo Kangaroo… it’s a kindergarten thing. Single biggest indulgence: Naps! They are my favorite. Ocean or river? Beach or campsite? Why? Ocean. I feel renewed and reset by the rhythms of the tide. I love listening to the waves roll in and out. Song that always makes me cry: Shania Twain’s, “You’re still the One.” That was my grandparents 50th anniversary song. Still on my bucket list: It’s a big bucket of world travels, starting with visiting my son, Rudy, in Okinawa. My “go to” Chico spot: I fell in love with lower Bidwell park, upper Bidwell soon after.

Q&A XIE

We salute her for her contribution to these young lives! 12

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The inspiration to teach came from: My niece and nephew, Seryna (21) and Alex (17) and my three children, Marina (26), Rudy (19), and Mikey (16).

What my life will look like in five years: Still enjoying my time in kinderland at Nord Country School. Teacher I remember the most from being a student: Gary Bullington, Mr. B., my 5th/6th grade teacher at Bellevue Elementary School in Santa Rosa. Summer break is for: Spending time with loved ones, organizing my classroom, bike riding, and traveling. Book that left a lasting impression on me: Mindset by Carol Dweck.

Biggest challenge I face each day: Being early.

Last thing I binge-watched: Gilmore Girls

Three qualities that got me where I am today: Dependability, perseverance, and flexibility.

One thing I am exceptionally good at: Tying shoes, I have had a lot of practice.

Moment I realized I had made it: Still waiting for that “feeling”…I love that I’m still learning and growing every day.

One thing I am epically bad at: Answering 20 questions about myself.

Worst excuse ever from a student: “My little brother ate it.” The student’s parents confirmed it to be true, haha!

I have zero tolerance for: Mosquitos

PHOTO BY FRANK REBELO

Lexie Aceves, aka “Miss A,” has been at Nord Country School for the 10 years. She was “pulled into her calling” as Kindergarten teacher. Graduating from Chico State in 2000, she set school aside to raise her children. When her youngest son enrolled, she took an instructional aide position in his class, and “never left.” Lexie served as PTO president as her three children went through Nord Country. She marvels at the support of the parents and community. Three years ago, she got her credential and fulfilled her dream of becoming the kindergarten teacher. Miss A believes this is the “most amazing age,” and loves how much they learn and grow in a year.

What gets me out of bed each morning: My mental to-do list is the best/worst alarm clock.

Although Skip regrets leaving certain belongings behind in his ten-minute rush to evacuate, he was able to grab possessions that mattered most in the moment. On November 8, with smoke obscuring tall pine trees around him, Skip ran to his car with his dog, a few guitars, and one small folding chair that he continues to use during live performances. The musician taps his chest when recalling the “percussive effect” of exploding propane tanks, a terrifying beat that followed him as he drove away from his neighborhood and prayed that he could return. After connecting with his children and ex-wife at the bottom of the hill, and securing a house in Chico weeks later, Skip finally found quiet moments in which he could process recent events. Reflecting on his town, his family, and his faith, Skip assembled his thoughts in one form that made sense to him: he wrote a song. “Another Prayer for Paradise” is as much a love song for the town as it is a wish for the future. While its opening verses consider “a million unknowns” that lie ahead, the song focuses on hope and T H E P E R C U S S I V E E F F E C T gratitude above all else. “All I know is I can’t wait to get back,” sings Skip near the song’s of end. It’s a simple longing that has resonated with survivors of the Camp Fire who, like Skip, were blocked from their town for weeks after the disaster. Though Skip never “The city is in my blood, but the mountains intended to write about these experiences, are in my heart,” muses Skip Culton, he awoke one morning with ready-formed reflecting on his transition from Sacramento lyrics brewing in his subconscious. Within to Paradise more than ten years ago. an hour, he had recorded a cell phone video

Exploding Tanks

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of himself performing the song from the living room of his new house. By the next day, the video had amassed nearly 10,000 hits on Facebook alone—and the numbers kept rising. While the song is clearly rooted in a small California community, its themes speak to an ever-growing audience. “Another Prayer” became national news as reporters from CNN and NBC interviewed Skip about his performance; meanwhile, new listeners sent messages of support from across the country. The song caught the attention of Tzu Chi, a Buddhist relief foundation, which partnered with Skip to fund a professional studio recording and music video. By January 2019, Skip returned to his hometown of Sacramento to take the stage at the Golden 1 Center for the “California Rises” benefit concert. Singing to a crowd of thousands alongside artists like Pitbull and Common, Skip helped raise nearly $5 million for the California Fire Foundation. “It was a dream come true,” he says. The concert represented not only a career highlight, but also a tangible way to help others affected by the fires. “To make something positive come out of this has become such a huge blessing,” he states. “You can find your own healing in helping other people.” Skip firmly believes that tragedy can bring out the best in everyone—that’s why he has partnered with fellow musician Nate Smith (of the Cold Weather Sons) to continue raising money for people who have lost everything. Every cent earned from Skip’s “Another Prayer for Paradise” and Nate’s “One of these Days” will go directly into Sierra Nevada's Camp Fire Relief Fund, The Camp Fire Guitar Project, and The Camp Fire Musician's Relief Fund. “We’re not taking a dime,” Skip declares. Despite his message of hope, the musician doesn’t pretend that he will return to life as normal in the near future. Recovery takes time. For the moment, however, Skip has chosen to focus not on what was lost during the Camp Fire, but what was gained. “We’re digging down, finding strength that we didn’t even know we had,” he explains. “We survived; we’re still here; life goes on.” The city may pull him back eventually, but for now Skip can look to his lyrics and remember the mountains that captured his heart: “I’ll always be at home in Paradise.”

WRITTEN BY EMMA HOPPOUGH PHOTO BY MICHELLE CAMY

Although Skip lost his house in the Camp Fire last November, he will always call Paradise his home—and he does, proudly, throughout his emotional and widely-shared song, “Another Prayer for Paradise.” Music, like mountain air, has shaped Skip’s identity since he moved up north after graduating high school. Working as a call center manager by day and a musician by night, Skip has performed throughout the North State for more than fifteen years—but few songs have generated as much attention as his acoustic ballad about loss and hope. After the most destructive fire in California history, Skip has embraced music as a form of healing for both himself and his scattered community. “I don’t have anything else that I can give,” he explains. “I don’t have clothes that I can donate…[But] my music is still inside of me. That’s what I’m going to give back to people.”

Funding A Revocable Trust I had discussed in a previous article the ability for a revocable trust to avoid probate. Probates can be expensive, public, and time consuming for your beneficiaries. Establishing a trust is the first step in making sure your heirs do not have to deal with that headache. However, creating the trust is only part of what you need to do. A trust only avoids probate for you if you’ve properly “funded” it. The idea is that the California Probate Code allows for estates to skip probate if the overall value is less than $150,000. The trick is that this valuation does not include many categories of assets you have as most retirement accounts are not counted toward this number, for instance. The Code says that for any assets you title into your trust, that value is not counted toward the probate threshold. Hence why we need to undertake a retitling of enough of the clients’ assets to make sure the outside Trust assets are less than $150,000. There is no getting around the fact this step can be tedious. For that reason, it has the danger of being overlooked or put off indefinitely. Even if you fully fund your trust when you created it, you should revisit how your assets are titled from time to time to ensure any newly acquired assets or property are put into your trust. Your estate planning lawyer can assist in getting this done for you and minimizing the steps you have to take. It's important to make time to meet with your estate planner to get these details finalized. LAW OFFICES OF AARON J. STEWART BUSINESS LAW & ESTATE PLANNING 2619 Forest Avenue Suite 100 Chico, CA 95928 530.345.2212

New Beginnings Flourish At The Jesus Center

The new year brings bountiful hope and high spirits, creating a January full of sharing and caring. The Jesus Center always brings cheer, faith, and dignity to those who need it most every holiday season, continuing throughout the year. Executive Director Laura Cootsona spreads her positive outlook while continuously helping others. This attitude exemplifies exactly what the Jesus Center stands for. One of its core values is to inspire “people to reach their full spiritual, physical, emotional, and vocational wellness.” Cootsona does this by empowering guests and participants to reinstate their dignity. With newfound dignity and a clarified path, participants can find purpose in their lives. The Jesus Center currently houses about 60 guests at seven different sites across 16

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Chico. Guests are welcome to stay for up to two years. During their stay, guests partake in programs that the center offers such as education, support, meals, and vocational training. With its private funding, the housing program can be flexible and it often hosts people until they can move on to more stable living. “It’s really about stabilization, transitional housing is really about getting on the path towards independence,” Cootsona said. The Sabbath House, an overnight shelter with 23 beds for women and children, resides above the Jesus Center. The female housing options include two transitional housing centers, two units for single moms and pregnant women and, one unit for elderly women. The center also provides transitional housing for men called the Birch House.

The Jesus Center maintains vocational training and education, supported by mentoring and hope. The center places guests in the Jesus Center office, kitchen, warehouse, café, or on the janitorial staff. Internships and jobs on Jesus Center farm and the Bloomin’ Hope flower cart help participants reconnect with the beauty of the earth. Cootsona recalled that one participant has become a completely different person since starting her work on the farm. According to Cootsona, about 87 percent of employees in the vocational training programs graduate successfully without having to seek shelter again. Participants generally start as volunteers. From there, they become interns with specific purposes, which often grow into full-time positions. The center often hires full-time employees from the vocational

The kitchen is only a small part of what the center does, yet it provides 110,000 meals every year to people in need. It serves breakfast and dinner daily. People in the community can simply walk in for meals, which is one of the ways the center can help them “find their full health,” Cootsona said. Meals also have an intake program so the center can get to know the community, and the community gets to know the center.

WRITTEN BY EMILY LEBLANC PHOTOS BY EMILY TEAGUE

program often. The staff of the Jesus Center also like to see participants realize their own value by furthering their careers elsewhere.

This safe haven has recently been working on a new project called the Renewal Center. The Torres Shelter and other community shelters have been collaborating with the Jesus Center to create this new space. The goal of the Renewal Center will be to house more people and provide a daytime center. When a homeless camp sprung up at Walmart after the Camp Fire, the Walmart team wanted to assess the situation. After speaking to the Jesus Center, Walmart pledged $1 million to help homelessness in the community. While the Renewal Center is under construction, the Jesus Center staff will be working diligently to house more nightly guests during the cold winter months. The immediate and long-term goals are very similar; to have higher occupancy rates and get people off the streets. One of the shelter's biggest problems is the participants’ low morale and battered self-esteem. Poverty and homelessness often cause people to see only the barriers in their way instead of potential successes. Multiple tragedies can hit people at once which affects their financial stability. Poverty is a “series of broken relationships,” Cootsona said. The way to break that cycle is to have human-to-human connections with people instead of making assumptions. There are many ways to help the Jesus Center. Donations and volunteers are always welcome. Connect via the website or in person.

KEEP UP WITH THE CENTER TO ATTEND EVENTS OR FOLLOW ITS INITIATIVES. CALL AT 530.345.2640, VISIT THE WEBSITE AT JESUSCENTER.ORG OR STOP BY THE CENTER AT 1297 PARK AVENUE, CHICO, CA 95926. 17

WRITTEN BY STACY WALLACE

Simplistic Changes for Positive Results In todayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s society, we are becoming increasingly aware of the lasting effects the choices we make today have on the environment. Some of those decisions are simple everyday choices that are made without a second thought. The changes we can make in our lives are easy and will help ensure a better future for the next generation. Making positive changes throughout the day begins with how you start your morning. Coffee or tea is a morning standard and making the decision to use a reusable coffee cup is a perfect way to begin the day. Whether you make coffee at home, or pick some up at the local coffee shop, remembering to use your own cup is a smart move. If you use a Keurig there are also reusable K-cups you can use in exchange for the plastic single-use ones. When packing your lunch for the day, or a snack for the road, it is a good idea to trade in the plastic bags for Tupperware or reusable snack bags. Packing a lunch will save on overall lunch costs as well as wastefulness. Before you leave the house for work, errands, or school, it is also a good idea to bring a stainless steel water bottle with you. Replacing the plastic water bottle you will only use once will not only help decrease the large amount of discarded plastic waste but also save you money over time. Klean Kanteen offers a variety of reusable products that makes transitioning 18

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out of a single use lifestyle easy. They also have stainless steel straws to replace the plastic ones that are threatening wildlife and the environment. You should also make sure you have some reusable ChicoBags on hand in case you decide to drop by the grocery store on your way home. When at home, there are a number of ways you can make your house more sustainable and less wasteful. Two ways to save energy in your home are trading out your regular light bulbs for LED bulbs and replacing old outlets with ones that draw zero energy when turned off. You can also replace your showerhead with a low-flow showerhead will help conserve water and lower your water bill. Using dish towels or cloth napkins instead of paper towels is also a good way to cut back on paper product consumption. Biodegradable waste bags, rechargeable batteries, and using 100% recycled aluminum foil are a few more ways to adjust your home life into a more environmentally conscious one. There are many ways that you can incorporate sustainability into your life and these ideas are a good way to start. Switching habits in your everyday life can be difficult, but taking it one day and one decision at a time can help ease the pressure. Making small changes can have a big impact on your life and the world around you.

Medicare Beneficiaries And The Camp Fire Important Information for Medicare Beneficiaries Regarding Camp Fire Disaster:

Medicare beneficiaries or their family caregivers who have any questions about their rights and protections can call HICAP for assistance at 1.800.434.0222 or 898.6716. For information

Passages Health Insurance Counseling & Advocacy Program

regarding FEMA (Federal Emergency Management Agency)

(HICAP) has been informed by the Centers for Medicare &

assistance call 800.621.3362.

Medicaid Services (CMS) that people with Medicare who live or were evacuated from the FEMA-declared Camp Fire disaster area, will be eligible for a Special Election Period (SEP) to change

Try the "What's covered" mobile app!

or enroll in a Part D plan after the official Open Enrollment ends December 7 if they missed the deadline. In addition, this SEP is available to those individuals who donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t live in the affected areas, but rely on help making healthcare decisions from friends or family members who live in the affected area. The SEP is available through March 31, 2019.

"This project was supported, in part by grant number 90SAPG0052-02-01 from the U.S. Administration for Community Living, Department of Health and Human Services, Washington, D.C. 20201. Grantees undertaking projects under government sponsorship are encouraged to express freely their findings and conclusions. Points of view or opinions do not, therefore, necessarily represent official Administration for Community Living policy."

Perhaps most excitingly, months of educational programming culminate in the fair’s “Procession of the Species,” a puppet parade that brings over 300 school children together. Throughout the year, BEC volunteers will go into classrooms to teach children about endangered species, conduct research projects, and create papiermâché sculptures to celebrate these animals. To view past puppets, simply step into the BEC office: you’ll immediately meet a large papier-mâché sea turtle swooping down from the ceiling. Each Faire allows these students to hold up their knowledge and creativity as they march together in honor of endangered species.

GOING WILD If you live in Butte County, chances are that you have benefitted from the Butte Environmental Council’s work every day without realizing it. Anyone who has enjoyed our clean waterways, community gardens, tall oak trees, and eco-friendly events has appreciated the hard work of this nonprofit group.

The Butte Environmental Council’s push for education and inspiration extends well beyond the fair, however; the nonprofit hosts many other free events throughout the year for people of all ages and abilities. Community members are free to join other annual events like the sustainable (and human-powered) Chico Bicycle Music Fest, or the massive Bidwell Park Cleanup, which last year brought nearly 550 people together to clean every park in Chico in just three hours. Other activities, like planting trees or serving on the volunteer board, are equally valuable. “We don’t only exist to serve the community, we’re driven by the members of the community,” says Natalie. And, as a community, the Butte Environmental Council hopes to encourage the county to take responsibility for our environment and lead future generations toward a more sustainable future.

When the Butte Environmental Council (BEC) was founded in 1975, its main focus was on establishing one of the first recycling centers in the area. Since then, the group has broadened its goals considerably as it advocates for environmental issues and educates the community wherever necessary. “We’re striving to help our community understand environmental issues, get involved, and make a difference,” explains BEC executive director Natalie Carter. With over 900 members, and resources for everything from sustainable energy to Camp Fire recovery, BEC has also created a powerful community within itself. This May, the organization will host its annual Endangered Species Faire so that local families can have fun while learning about environmental issues. Now in its 14th year, the Endangered Species Faire is returning to Cedar Grove and the Chico Creek Nature Center to celebrate wildlife and raise awareness of natural resources. “This is one of the oldest and largest environmental fairs in Northern California,” states Natalie. “People from all over the area come.” She’s not exaggerating: between 3,000 and 5,000 people attend the event every year, and that number continues to grow. This year’s fair, which takes place on May 4th, will feature two performance areas for the second time ever, in order to accommodate the event’s increasing popularity. 20

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FOR MORE INFORMATION, VISIT THE BUTTE ENVIRONMENTAL COUNCIL AT 313 WALNUT STREET SUITE #140 IN CHICO OR CALL 530.891.6424. YOU CAN ALSO VISIT THEM ONLINE AT BECNET.ORG

WRITTEN BY EMMA HOPPOUGH PHOTOS BY MICHAEL MEJIA

While the food, live music, and free admittance into the Living Animal Museum and Nature Lab will all contribute to a colorful day of entertainment and animal-spotting, the Endangered Species Fair was created with education at its core. “It’s giving kids exposure to concepts and ideas that they can take and mold their futures,” explains Natalie. For this reason, every booth at the fair will host an educational activity for children, including an ongoing Eco Scavenger Hunt that will encourage families to travel between stations and gather facts about conservation.

A DECISION AS

Clear As Day Born and raised in Jonava, Lithuania, Regina Gysel moved to the United States 20 years ago, chasing the American dream. An ophthalmologist in her home country, Regina decided to venture out and began working in the medical device industry, training American ophthalmologists on new advances in laser cataract surgery. It was during one of these trainings that she met Dr. Isaac Barthelow at North Valley Eye Care. “As a surgeon myself, it was immediately clear that Dr. Barthelow had outstanding surgical skills.” Regina said, “When it came time for my mother to have cataract surgery, I sent her directly to Dr. Barthelow as he is the best eye surgeon in Chico.” Diagnosed with cataracts nearly 20 years ago, Regina’s mother, Jenny, had managed to live with the condition without the need for surgery quite a bit longer than most, a feat she credits to her dietary choices and healthy lifestyle. After suffering an injury last winter, and having surgery performed under anesthesia to repair it, Jenny found that her eyesight quickly began to deteriorate. She scheduled a visit to see Regina in California, and the two decided it would be the best time to have her eyesight repaired by Dr. Barthelow. Jenny met with Dr. Barthelow for an examination, and he determined that her eyes were indeed ready for laser cataract surgery. They scheduled her surgery and decided to replace her eyes’ natural lenses with Restor multifocal lenses that allow you to see multiple distances without glasses. “She can avoid using glasses permanently with this technology.” Regina said, “She’ll be a super grandma!” Jenny had her first of two surgeries at the end of January. “The process took just three hours total from start to finish, and the surgery itself only took five minutes!” She said, “It was so easy. I was able to see at once through my left eye after surgery, but it looked like there was a light fog. After three days, I was able to read everything on my smartphone perfectly. Everything is so much sharper and easier to see.” Regina continued with excitement, “Keep 22

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in mind she still has one eye to go! Soon she’ll be able to drive her car, use her computer, and read again with no issues whatsoever.” Jenny’s second surgery is scheduled to take place in a few weeks, and she couldn’t be more excited to experience perfect vision once again. “I wanted to have my mom’s surgery done sooner rather than later so it would be easier.” Regina said, “I’m even more excited for my mom than she is herself because I know she received the best technology available by the most competent surgeon. Her new lens filters blue light naturally and adds a warming filter to everything she sees. It’s healthier for her retina, and in places like Lithuania where it’s usually overcast with long rainy seasons, the blue light filter makes everything look happier as well." With nothing but positives to look forward to, the future is looking bright for Jenny. “I appreciate Dr. Barthelow and his staff, and

would like to thank them all personally for the care they’ve given me.” She said, “They’re all such nice people, and I really couldn’t be happier. If you’re experiencing vision issues, I would of course recommend Dr. Barthelow and everyone at North Valley Eye Care. Don’t be afraid of the surgery; it isn’t something to be scared of at all. In my opinion, eyes are the most important organ in the human body, and it’s really something wonderful to see perfectly with them again.” With a warm smile, Regina finished, “Cataract surgery is considered to be one of the safest surgeries by far, but you want to pick the right doctor no matter what surgery you’re having. Look for a doctor with experience, and if you’re having surgery on your eyes, make sure it’s with Dr. Barthelow.” If you’re like Jenny and have experienced changes in your vision, call North Valley Eye Care today at 530.891.1900. As she’ll be the first to tell you, it’ll be the best decision you’ll ever make.

YOUR HEALTH HOW GARDENING CAN IMPROVE YOUR LIFE

Gardening. What is it about gardening? There is something about helping things grow, nourishing the soil, providing food for ourselves or for the birds, bees, butterflies, and other creatures. There is work involved, indeed, and, sometimes, frustration. One of the most rewarding and beneficial aspects of gardening is the draw of how it makes us feel and how it helps take the edge off the normal stresses of work and, frankly, life in general. Gardening is wonderful exercise and as such is very therapeutic for the body and soul. It is a relaxing activity that requires no real schedule and only as much effort as you want to put into it. Most of us have a patio area of some sort. Surround that area with a variety of plants in pots and in the ground, and immediately you’ve created an outdoor room where you can get away from it all. Larger yards or irregularly shaped yards provide opportunities to create corners and niches with different atmospheres or themes. Mom and dad can have their corner and the kids another. With a little imagination you can create serenely quiet nooks, gentle musical fountain areas, exotic jungle plant areas, minimalist Japanese gardens—whatever you like—all special spots where you can meditate, commune with nature, read, or just sit back, put your feet up, and relax. For my husband and me, much of the fun is creating the vision of what we want and then doing the work to fulfill that vision. Right now our yard is a work in progress— but isn’t that what gardening is anyhow? 24

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Late last summer we removed anklebreaking stone mulch and put in a small garden pond with a mini waterfall, which we immediately stocked with goldfish. It took no time at all for the sound of the water to attract damselflies and birds. Now we are in the process of planting new plants with the idea of attracting more creatures including hummingbirds, bees, and butterflies. The pleasure and joy received from working on this project is the great reward. Also, the sense of doing something good for nature in our small way gives us a feeling of accomplishment—of giving something back and saying thank you to nature. The pleasure we receive from this garden project has become a constant in our lives. In nice weather, we can sit outside and read, relax, and contemplate life. In rainy weather, we can still watch all the activity from inside the house and enjoy watching the fish relish the rain splashing in the pond. Bringing gardening, with its inherent benefits into our lives, can be simple. It does not have to be done on a large scale. It can be as simple as having a back door herb garden, or a planter box with herbs, and perhaps some flowers mixed in. It can be a single rose bush and not a whole rose garden. The choice is yours, dear reader! The idea is to dig in the dirt, relax, and enjoy!

HEALTH ADVICE

VIA

BETTY FOWLER

Betty is the President of the Chico Horticultural Society. She is a retired teacher and school administrator who was always a gardener. Betty moved to Chico from New York State in 2002 and joined the Chico Horticultural Society so that she could learn about gardening in this climate.

Radio-Frequency Microneedling Among the newest advances in skin care technology is radio-frequency microneedling. It is a minimally invasive, non-surgical procedure that creates a controlled thermal injury underneath the skin's surface. The body's response is to produce more collagen, thereby plumping and thickening the skin to reduce the appearance of scars, stretch marks, and fine lines.This treatment has also proven to be effective for acne scarring, though it may look slightly worse during the healing process! First, a topical anesthetic, like Lidocaine, is applied, numbing the area for patient comfort. Then the Infini RF system is applied to the skin where a sterile tip containing very fine needles delivers the thermal energy deep into the dermis for maximum collagen stimulation. The serial insertion of the tip minimizes discomfort, and recovery is quick and easy. This procedure, also known as Collagen Induction Therapy, creates thousands of thermal coagulation zones through the insulated micro-needles to the treated area. Some redness and swelling is normal and usually dissipates in 24â&#x20AC;&#x201C;36 hours. Some changes may be visible immediately after treatment, but collagen continues to rebuild for several weeks, up to six months. For optimum results, a series of treatments may be recommended. Skin will be rejuvenated; appearing smoother, tighter, allowing skin care products to be absorbed faster and more efficiently. Post procedure, the skin must be protected with an SPF of 30+ to guard against hyperpigmentation. Consultations are always free at the DermBar Med-Spa. Call us at 530.342.2672 to set up an appointment. DERM BAR MED-SPA 85 Declaration Dr. Suite 100 Chico, CA 95973 530.342.2672

PHOTOS PROVIDED BY REJUVENE

YOUR HEALTH GETTING RID OF ACNE SCARRING

Should I Hire A 1099 Independent Contractor Or A W2 Employee? Staffing is one of the most intricate, yet crucial areas of every business. Not only does it take up the majority of your budget, but there are several different classifications workers can have. Two of the most common types are 1099/contractors and W2 employees. A W2 employee is on the company payroll and employers are responsible for training, scheduling, insurance, and taxes. A 1099 contractor provides services that are decided by a contract, and are working for themselves and therefore responsible for the tools and methods in which they fulfil their contractual obligation. The importance of correctly classifying workers is huge, and if not done correctly, can lead to IRS penalties, employment lawsuits, and a lack of control within your business. Intentional or not, employers can face criminal charges for these types of mistakes, so ensuring compliance is vital. When properly classified, these changes can make a enormously beneficial impact on your organization. This is a complex task that is defining to your workforce. Consult HRiQ if you want to learn more about whether 1099/independent contractors or W2/employees are right for you!

Acne and acne scarring is a common reason hundreds of Americans visit their dermatologist. Here are a few tips to help get rid of acne scarring.

Step 1: Get the Acne Under Control

Acne scarring results from untreated or prolonged tender and cystic acne. The larger the cysts, the longer they’re present, the more likely they will scar. Even acne that persists for a short time can cause scarring. It is imperative that the underlying cause of the scarring, the acne itself, be adequately treated. Often the acne itself, and the residual pigmented marks, can mimic scarring. Treating the underlying acne has advantages toward addressing the scarring.

Microneedling is a quick, safe, and effective treatment for acne scarring and hyperpigmentation. After the application of a topical numbing agent, the device is applied across the skin. Temporary pinpoint bleeding occurs and downtime is minimal. People can wear makeup and other topicals after a few days. The mechanism of improvement is, by creating a controlled injury, we stimulate the skin to produce growth factors and proteins that improve both the wound and scars.

Step 2: Improve Redness & Discoloration

Chemical peels are one of the oldest methods. Though affordable, they are often limited to people with the fairest complexions. Applying a chemical peel to olive-complexion or darker skin may result in worsening of scars.

The residual red or brown spots can linger after a breakout are called PostInflammatory Hyperpigmentation (PIH). These spots, which patients call “marks,” resemble scars but, unlike a scar, they fade on their own. It can take several weeks or months for these blemishes to heal. Applying a topical skin brightener or retinoid product can speed up this process. In addition, these products prepare the skin for the more powerful procedures like microneedling, chemical peels, and lasers. They also minimize the risk of side effects from the procedures and improve the outcome.

Step 3: Treat The Actual Scarring HRIQ–HUMAN RESOURCES + PAYROLL CHICO, CA SHELBY@UPYOURHRIQ.COM UPYOURHRIQ.COM 530.200.2663

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skin looks. For some patients, significant acne scarring persists and is obvious. For those patients, I recommend either microneedling, chemical peels, or the fractionated laser resurfacing.

By following the first two steps, many people are happy with the way their skin looks. What they thought was scarring was actually inflammatory acne with hyperpigmentation and redness. Once gone, they are relieved with how great their

The gold standard for deep, or icepicked scarring, is the Profractional laser. Fewer treatments are needed than with microneedling with more downtime. It can be utilized on all skin types with dramatic results. As with any procedure, patients should seek an experienced Board-Certified Physician, or a provider who’s supervised by one. Ask your provider for before and after photos and have a discussion of the risks, benefits, and alternatives to your treatment.

HEALTH ADVICE

VIA

DR.KAFELE HODARI

Dr. Hodari is a Board Certified Dermatologist and the owner and Medical Director of Rejvuené. For more information, visit rejuvene.com

BEAUTY Q&A SWITCHING FROM DAY TO NIGHT

You’re a busy woman with a full schedule at work, making time for your social life can sometimes feel overwhelming. Let’s face it, you deserve to let loose and enjoy the occasional girls night out, or a date with that special someone. There are ways you can transform your day to evening look with a few simple adjustments, without having to lug an extra suitcase to work, or committing to a lot of extra time. Let’s get to the basics by starting with a simple neutral colored outfit, one you can easily add accents that can turn any daytime ensemble to a striking evening look. Consider a simple sheath dress, a flared a-line dress, or even a one-piece pant suit. With any one of these as a starting point, you can forget about having to bring an entirely different outfit to change into. My favorite neutral color is black. It’s versatile and can transform easily with just a few accents. With all this in mind, here are three ways accessories help switch your daytime to nighttime look; one that is truly striking.

1. Make a Statement with Jewelry

For me, this is the most fun way to add some powerful sparkle to your outfit. When it’s time to get ready for your evening, take off your more simple accessories and trade them in for a more embellished necklace, perhaps a sophisticated choker, a few cocktail rings, a colorful or decorative cuff, and a pair of statement earrings. Remember to select from a few of these to add just the right amount of bling to your

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look. All of them at once may create a chaotic result. Play with what you’ve got in your repertoire the night before to create something perfect.

2. Heavy on the Clutch

Who moves through their days with a large handbag that carries everything but the kitchen sink? Guilty, right here! For work, and life in general, this may be necessary, it’s definitely not during the after hours. In the evening, you’ll need a fraction of what’s in your typical daytime purse. Think phone, credits cards, cash, lipstick, and maybe some powder; and place them in the perfect little clutch. This accessory isn’t only an accent, it’s also fully functional.

3. Shine those Shoes

We will not be shining shoes here. However, your evening shoes can be shiny, or sparkly. Consider changing your daytime flats and trading them in for something with a few embellishments. Even a simple little heel can create a look more suited for the evening.

Now, go out and have a great time while looking amazing with these quick and easy tips!

BEAUTY ADVICE

VIA

KRISTINA MICHELLE

Kristina Michelle Jewelry, a line of artisan jewelry made for women who love wearing unique pieces that make them feel like a boss babe. Find her line at kristinamichellejewelry.com, or in Chico at Made in Chico or MONCA.

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UL: What have you learned at HICAP that has helped elsewhere in your life? TS: More than anything else, collaboration. I manage 15 volunteers currently, and was managing 21 prior to the Camp Fire. It’s been a bit of an adjustment making things run perfectly after three of our volunteers were forced to move away and three others are sorting through everything. This team really is incredible though, and they’ve all come together to make sure everything is done the way it needs to be. They are the most caring, giving, and conscientious people I’ve ever met and working with each of them is really a bright spot in my day. I’ve learned to be more patient, and their positive attitudes have been contagious day-in and day-out. I also enjoy being a source of knowledge for others in the community. I often get asked questions about Medicare in public places once people learn of what I do for a living.

TIM SONNENBURG BALANCING MOTORCYCLES AND MEDICARE Originally from La Puente, California, Tim Sonnenburg helped a friend move to Chico in 1980, and, after seeing the city, decided to move up himself. Passionate about motorcycles, he worked as a Honda motorcycle mechanic in Northern California for 28 years before deciding to switch gears. With a degree in social work, he began working as an intern at the HICAP office in Chico. When the volunteer coordinator retired, he applied for the position and was hired. He began working as HICAP’s full-time volunteer coordinator on January 1, 2010 and has been there ever since. We caught up with Tim to ask him about his time with HICAP and the impact it has had on his life. UL: How would you describe HICAP? TS: HICAP is a part of a larger program called Passages, which is the Area Agency on Aging. These agencies are set geographically throughout the United States, and we’re one of 32 in California. Passages offers various services for seniors and people with disabilities, and HICAP is our Medicare counseling arm. The program covers five counties—Butte, Glenn, Colusa, Tehama, and Plumas—and I get to bounce around mentoring volunteers throughout those different counties.

UL: What inspires you to be involved? TS: I’m inspired by our clients. Medicare is huge and really complex, so it’s difficult for people to figure out on their own. Clients come to us with issues that are easy for an experienced counselor to understand but can be very difficult for someone without the level of training we’ve had. I never leave work without feeling like I’ve helped someone in a positive manner, and it’s exciting to be part of something that always has a good outcome. Our clients are so grateful for what we’re able to do for them, and we get to do it at no charge. UL: How did you know this was the right work for you? TS: We constantly get referrals from Medicare phone banks, so it’s clear that even those who are hired to explain Medicare nationally can use a bit of help. Though healthcare reform provided some positive steps in insuring people, it also added new complexities to the Medicare system, and those complexities have added to the frustration of beneficiaries. People need help and need to understand how to get more bang for their buck. It’s really great to help clients who are trying to make it on $900 each month, and the work we do helps make that possible.

UL: What has surprised you most about your time at HICAP? TS: I have been surprised at how complex Medicare really is and what we deal with on a daily basis. We handle so many difficult cases— appeals and denials—along with coverage questions that are generally frustrating for the beneficiary. The questions are rarely answered by just one person. Instead, we form a committee and make sure everyone is able to provide their input to answer questions as completely as possible. Having that kind of collaboration between staff and volunteers is really great. UL: What do you do to avoid burnout? What are your other hobbies when not volunteering? TS: The office experience and people make it easy; they’re always happy and supportive. In my position I get out pretty often, traveling to different counties for training programs and presentations. I still work on motorcycles for friends on the side and am excited to get back into white water kayaking along with my normal exercise routines. Most of all though, I get to spend time with my seven-year-old grandson who lives in Yuba City. He and my daughter visit often and we go to Rare Air in Chico. There’s no better way to avoid burnout than bouncing around with your grandson on a trampoline!

PHOTOS BY MICHELLE CAMY & PROVIDED BY G-TOWN HOT SHOP

Andrew and Mylee vowed to spend the rest of their lives together pursuing their passion for arts and performance. Although the Northwest was certainly great, the rainy and overcast weather had become too much. Craving sunlight, Mylee impressed upon Andrew her dream of “moving somewhere the sun burns my skin.” A childhood friend of Andrew’s worked at Sierra Nevada in Chico, and, having visited on multiple occasions, Andrew and Mylee decided this might be the place where they could create their dreams. They packed their bags and moved in 2011 with the vision to build a glass shop and dance studio in the same building. From this dream, their glass shop and Duende Sol dance studio was born.

The Hottest Show In Town Gratitude. It is a word we all would do well to know better, and a form of respect we could all benefit from showing more often. In the case of Andrew Libecki, Bryon Sutherland, and Mylee Francisco, the openness to show gratitude resulted in the gathering of three souls scattered across the west coast to create something truly beautiful within our community. Now a self-proclaimed family, the three are delighting residents with their glass-blowing showmanship while introducing a new generation of artists to the wonders of this ancient craft. Originally from Clovis, California, Andrew set out at the age of 18, searching for adventure in the great outdoors. He landed in the Wasatch mountains, Utah, outside Salt Lake City, where he discovered backcountry snowboarding, igniting his passion to live for the present moment. His enthusiasm for the mountains eventually led him to the northwestern region of Washington, and he spent the next 15 years splitting his time between the two locales, adventuring throughout the states, and taking up residence at different cabins deep in the Washington wilderness. 32

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On one such adventure, Andrew fell in with a group of glassblowers who operated an art studio at their cabin in the woods. With no experience, he began to learn the art of glassblowing and realized this experience satisfied his thrill seeking addiction. After five years of mentoring with Sterling Powell, a master of glass technique, Andrew eventually found his way to Seattle to pursue his glass career. Alongside a number of Seattle glass artists, Andrew apprenticed for an additional three years under James Nowak. A pioneer of glass art, Nowak passed on the recipe to create a rare form of phosphorescent (glowin-the-dark) glass and stressed the value of individual artistic expression. During this epic adventure, Andrew sought to learn the banjo and met Mylee Francisco. Born to artists, Mylee’s father—Andrew’s banjo teacher—was a luthier who taught bluegrass music, while her mother taught belly dancing at their home. From a young age, surrounded by music, artists, and performers, Mylee learned classical piano, banjo, circus arts, and gained an unquestionable passion for dance. After years of romantic courting,

In 2012, local glassblower, Bryon Sutherland, heard through the grapevine that a new glassblower had moved into town. Excited to meet a fellow artist, he was surprised to find that they had the space next to his kids’ swim school, Water Sprites, on Ivy Street. He dropped the kids off for class one day, grabbed a 6-pack of Sierra Nevada, and dropped in to welcome Andrew to Chico. As all three agreed, they became immediate friends. “I was so stoked there was going to be another glassblower in town.” Bryon said, “Art is meant to be shared, and it was great to have a fellow artist to share it with.” Originally from San Diego, Bryon attended Chico State, and started in their glass program in 1999. Like Andrew, he was hooked instantly. He graduated in 2003 with a bachelor’s degree in glass sculpture and took a job at Orient & Flume for three years. After taking a few classes at the Corning Museum of glass in New York, Bryon was invited back to apprentice under William Gudenrath, New York’s most prestigious master of glassblowing. Gudenrath is hailed internationally as one of the foremost authorities on glassmaking techniques of the ancient world. With no shortage of experience behind him, Bryon returned to California and opened his own studio and gallery in Gridley. He operated the business for 12 years while traveling throughout the world, showcasing and selling his work. After years of their blossoming friendship and success in artistic endeavors together, Andrew, Mylee, and Bryon decided they should combine forces to create Chico’s first public glassblowing studio. Reverently named

G-Town Hot Shop—the G, of course, stands for gratitude—Andrew, Bryon, and Mylee are setting out to turn their warehouse into a center for entertainment, learning, and artistic expression. “Glassblowing is a glimpse back in time,” Bryon said, “and we have to educate people on the importance of glass historically and in modern day use. None of the tools have changed over thousands of years and bringing the community together to experience the art behind it is one of our primary goals. We want to give artists a place to make their art and express themselves. Once an artist has graduated from Chico State, there are very few places for them to go, and we want to change that. We honestly want to offer the experience to anyone who’s interested.” Mylee continued, “We’re offering a spectrum of services, starting with those that are free, to introduce the community to the world of glass. We’re also offering classes for others to become inspired and learn how to blow glass for themselves.” Andrew concluded, “One of our key goals is to give back to the community through local programs.” “We also want to entertain and captivate people.” Andrew said while moving his hands in a mystical fashion. Though we all have our various levels of appreciation for art, there are few that could turn down dinner and a show. Perhaps the most exciting aspect of this new convergence of artists is the performance element. “Blowing glass is a dance.” Mylee stated, “My background is in circus performing and choreography, so turning this art into a performance was something I found myself immediately passionate about. We took our most exciting glass techniques and combined them into a show we call ‘Hot Glass Royale’. For example, we make a traditional Venetian-style goblet, and while it’s still hot, cook popcorn in it as a appetizer to begin the show!” The experience is reminiscent of a vegetable toss at a hibachi grill, but far more electrifying. Dinner is served shortly thereafter by Chico’s finest caterers, along with perfectly selected music, creating a show worthy of the Las Vegas Strip. Guests are guaranteed to walk away satiated and with an education in the process and terminology of glass blowing. “The process is fluid.” Bryon said, “Done with style, the art of glassblowing is a truly beautiful thing. We work together and, through silent communication, we’re able to produce unique glass art.” The 3-hour performance concludes with a ceremonial goblet toss, and each guest leaves

with their own unique custom goblet. With the hot glass at 2,165ºF, it’s fair to say there’s no hotter show currently in Northern California. G-Town promises a night filled with art, performance, and laughter you will never forget. With a number of different packages to choose from, experiencing the art of glassblowing—and even learning how to do it yourself—has also never been more approachable. If you’d like to create an experience for friends and family, or introduce a group to the art of glassblowing in a way that is unlikely to be matched, call G-Town Hot Shop at 530.899.9533 or visit gtownhotshop.com

The “Dinner and A Show” at G Town Hot Shop was an intimate and entertaining introduction into the art of glassblowing. Beginning with a stemmed drinking glass, something that many of us take for granted, the experience brought a new level of appreciation to the art form. The professionally catered dinner provided by Bacio Catering was enjoyed while the G Town crew worked on more complex pieces and concluded with an exciting popcorn demonstration. Our entire group left the experience with an enthusiastic and curious vibe for the craft! –Jeremy Wilson

A Beautiful Life For those who would like advice tailored to their specific space, A Beautiful Life Furnishings offers in-home design evaluations, helping customers with everything from room layouts to hanging gallery walls. “A Beautiful Life Furnishings can create custom painted pieces from loved, older items that need updating. We collaborate on the right colors, distressing, and the look clients want to achieve”, says owner Alisa Woods. She even teaches how-to classes if you like to do something on your own.

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Drawing from mid-century modern, rustic farmhouse, Asian, and boho styles, Alisa carefully curates each item in the store. She creates layouts, vignettes, and color palettes that are meant to inspire customers with design ideas they can apply to their own homes. Equally important are reasonable, mostly at wholesale level, prices. The store is a colorful, visually pleasing experience that reflects Alisa’s own eclectic style and background. As a designer and industry sales representative in the Bay Area, Alisa also designed outdoor spaces for a high end furniture store on Maui, Hawaii before moving to Chico in 2015 to be near family. As a lover of Chico’s small-town feel, Alisa is an active supporter of the community and takes every opportunity to personally help in areas that speak to her. She is offering discounts to help

our recent fire survivors through their tragedy. She is involved in the North State Symphony’s Frugal House fundraising, and contributes to the Chico Cat Coalition and Chico’s Animal Shelter’s Wag Woof Walk. Since opening A Beautiful Life Furnishings three years ago, Woods has been committed to helping customers design beautiful spaces that bring joy into their lives. “I believe that if you create beautiful interiors where you wake up in the morning and see things that bring you joy, that starts a beautiful day. That start ripples out into your world and you begin to create a beautiful life,” Alisa explains. Visit A Beautiful Life Furnishings in downtown Chico. Create your own beautiful life today. FOR MORE INFORMATION VISIT, 250 E. 1 ST STREET IN DOWNTOWN CHICO OR ABEAUTIFULLIFEFURNISHINGS.COM

WRITTEN BY EMILY HUSO PHOTOS BY MICHELLE CAMY

Whether you are on the hunt for the perfect piece of furniture or you need inspiration and advice for the interior design of your home, look no further than A Beautiful Life Furnishings. You will discover a unique store that offers gorgeous furniture and accessories, design consultation, and custom furniture painting. It is an inspiration driven experience.

Quick Guide To Retirement Accounts BY RENEE MICHEL, MBA, AND JOE SWEENEY, CFP ®, FINANCIAL ADVISORS AT SWEENEY & MICHEL, LLC

Every year, millions of Americans save money for their retirement through 401(k)’s and IRA’s. With the Tax deadline coming up, we thought we would highlight some important distinctions between three of the most popular types of retirement accounts. We work with people every day to prepare them for retirement, whether it’s 3 days or 30 years away. If you have any questions on your own accounts, investments or financial plan, feel free to call us at 530.487.1777.

Renée Michel, MBA and Joe Sweeney, CFP® | 2452 Lakewest Drive, Chico, CA 95928 (530) 487-1777 | renee@sweeneymichel.com | joe@sweeneymichel.com | www.sweeneymichel.com Advisory services also offered through Sweeney & Michel, LLC, a registered investment adviser. Advisory services are only offered to clients or prospective clients where Sweeney & Michel, LLC and its representatives are properly licensed or exempt from licensure. Past performance is no guarantee of future returns. Investing involves risk and possible loss of principal capital. No advice may be rendered by Sweeney & Michel, LLC unless a client service agreement is in place.

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TREATING PEOPLE RIGHT Sitting across from Ben Eckstrom, in his full force conversational mode, it becomes difficult to distinguish if he would be better suited as a stand-up comedian or motivational speaker. What clearly emerges is his palpable sense of urgency. He often refers to his primary business, Proframe, as a “dynamic enterprise.” Looking at direct synonyms for the word dynamic, Ben uniquely qualifies as another one. He is inherently a, “productive, energetic, forceful, progressive, driving, enterprising, intense, play-for-keeps,” type of guy. Therefore, so is every facet of the Proframe organization. After growing up in the hills of both Santa Cruz and Willits, he made his way to the University of San Diego and discovered surfing. The discipline, patience, and risk associated with this sport helped shape Ben’s approach to living and working. He took advantage of construction while in school as a well paid part time gig. The work ethic it took to be good at this trade surfaced, separating Ben from mere artisans. A move to Avila Beach intensified this approach to work. Out of 1200 applicants, Ben was one of four to be hired as a firefighter, becoming the youngest driver and engineer. He went to the local community college, earned his Fire Science degree and claims he was at “the right time and right place” to be hired so young. An oil spill and the arrival of Cal Fire led to an unexpected lay-off. A return to Willits and a

job at a mortuary led Ben to what he calls a “dead end place.” A chance weekend visit to a friend attending Chico State turned the tide. Ben loved Chico and its location as a hub for mountains, lakes and easy access to the Bay Area. It reminded him of San Luis Obispo without the ocean. In Sunday’s paper, he discovered a construction job and was hired the next day to join a framing crew and never looked back. At 23 years of age, Ben took the job in Chico as a construction framing specialist, at times finding himself running multi-million dollar operations. Known as the guy who got things done, Ben would work on Saturdays for free, or for beer, to learn how to build stairs and other specialities not taught in the framing world. Though he had a contractor’s license at the time, he “liked going home and turning things off.” At 26, with a brand new house and a baby on the way, he lost his job in the economic crash of 2007. At such a young age, despite his innate ability to be aggressive, he was also aware just how hard it was to get respect. All of the extra hours and all of his unusual experience quickly paid off, finding Ben with a difficult and life-changing decision. The first stemmed from the thought of going into the custom home business. Realizing he still had so much to learn, but, at the same time, he was drawn to the thriving Canyon Oaks development. While contemplating all of this, Ben was offered a superintendent

position with a prominent local construction company. As he puts it, how do you react to a “What-do-I-do-with-my-life-moment?” It appears you join forces with your trusted friend, Ryan Ayers, and follow the calling to build custom homes. Eckstrom Construction soon discovered the difficulty of a custom home venture, ultimately concentrating on the Westside farm area upon discovering the money mirrored the economy. Two realities set in, the first being how much there was to learn, followed by the realization that Ben “wanted the business to be bigger than him.” Sometimes returning to your roots fulfills your destiny.

of being in the service business and the mandate of maintaining “high end” work. Ben’s vision turned toward a natural way for the business to expand. The result was the birth of Patio Pros, a rebranded subsidiary of Proframe. The idea seemed simple enough, stemming from the obvious fact every backyard in Chico needs a patio cover of some sort to combat the changing seasons, while extending the valued time spent outdoors. Ben saw the need for diversity, making Patio Pros’ focus on the unique needs for each individual client. This notion became twofold. The first centered around not pushing any single product to a customer by having the technological tools to be able to show the entire palette of available products. The other was ensuring the production would be about speed and quality. Patio cover materials are lighter, paving the way for the most experienced workers to be the perfect fit for each job, hence speed with guaranteed quality. Ben believes that “this is the year for Patio Pros” to excel. He envisions the term “patio” business as a full service backyard, including barbeque islands, lighting, and, as he puts it, “the whole package.” Beyond the designer, opportunities such as the ‘Home and Garden Show’ allows for Patio Pros visually to display just what can be accomplished in any backyard.

The simple name of the parent company serves also as the intended work to be done. Proframe is the shortened version of “production framing,” the team oriented planned pursuit of the new venture. The term comes from the basic work journeymen learned in the 70s. Ben found the framing of a home both a repetitive method and clear science. With routine as the absolute necessary key, each phase would be broken down into individually skilled crews. The crews emerged as follows: Layout: crew arrives when foundation is in place, snaps all lines, from plans, drill and put boards down, and lays out wood exposing the pieces of the puzzle; Framers: nail all boards together, raising and securing each wall in place thus putting the puzzle together; Stackers: assemble and combine roof trusses into place; when needed, the Pick up crew arrives for any and all “trick” stuff, such as archways and fireplaces. These crews prove especially effective in subdivisions, mostly in a series of 38

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three houses at a time. In a perfect weather and material world, the layout would occur day one, framing and stackers sharing day two, and the pick up guys completing the tricky stuff on day three. Literally a house could be ready for drywall in four days. The ambiguity of the company name assures both the certain “professional” aspect of the work to be completed, coupled with the certain feeling each team member possesses as a result of being considered a “Pro” in their field. Once again, Ben’s drive and confidence led to putting this challenge to work, answering the question, “Why can’t we do this?” Despite the nature of production framing as the heaviest lifting with the lowest pay, success can, nevertheless be attained. With the crews in place, Ben hung up his belt and took on another leadership role, one that clearly understood the importance of “treating people right and the need for balance.” Maintaining this leadership style can call for an expanding view, along with the awareness

Ben is adamant about his belief that Proframe is “not about him.” He praises all the people who collectively make up this prosperous company. He is quick to point out each crew and the value of the leader of each. These crew members become intricate, important parts of the entire process. These workers and the capable office staff at hand have paved the way for Ben to hang up his belt and take the critical step away from the production process. He now must continue to build the business, made possible by the pointed leadership and team concept on each job site. He muses at the enormous challenges they have faced and scoffs at so many failures. He claims to have a huge database of both, a certain ‘must read’ for anyone thinking of starting such a company. These challenges and foibles lead Ben to a continued vision of what Proframe can still become. One such vision is coming to fruition. Ben and Ryan have come full circle and put together an elite team to take on what is known onsite as “GC.” Yes, they will return to their roots and venture back into General Contracting. This Custom crew will perform all phases of the

PHOTOS BY FRANK REBELO AND PROVIDED BY PROFRAME CONSTRUCTION

construction process from the foundation to the finish work. The difficulty factor involved calls for a wide variety of specialized crew members. Beyond workers with belts and hard hats, Ben has added Leah Voorhees as an in-house designer. Most homeowners are non-visual, so the addition of Leah producing computer generated 3D models of their custom home allows for a realistic depiction not easily garnered from blueprints. In addition, the newly formed Custom Home division has already scored a Project Manager, an experienced gentleman coaxed out of retirement. Hires like this provide the necessary trust allowing Ben to continue with his focused role.

Ben is a whirligig of ideas and energy, epitomizing every facet of that dynamic nature he promotes. It truly can be riveting just to listen to him go down another rabbit hole with yet another worthwhile endeavor. He talks of his “Give a little, get a little” campaign in such a fashion so as to make each listener nod in a agreement. Ben is also proud of his work background and gets a chance to put his belt back on and compete each Spring. This all takes place at the inhouse “Olympics” put on by Proframe for its employees and their families. So typical that, due to the nature of this business, events like the “Olympics” and obvious charitable causes are not brought out in a bragging or self-promoting manner. He

often struggles with the prospect of “putting a limit on the company.” It simply defies logic to think this could be true. In reality, it is easy to believe that Proframe is not at all about Ben, mainly due to the reality and true belief that Proframe is absolutely because of Ben. His dynamic ways have become the dynamic foundation of the entire Proframe conglomerate.

TO SPEAK WITH A MEMBER OF THE PROFRAME CONSTRUCTION TEAM ABOUT YOUR UPCOMING PROJECT VISIT PROFRAMECONSTRUCTION.COM OR CALL 530.636.4574. 39

Finding The Perfect Tile "What Tile Should I Use In The Different Areas Of My Home?" We are often get asked this question by customers, and the answer depends on the area of the home being considered. When selecting tile or stone, it is important to know the product you're choosing from. Tile is manufactured in ceramic or porcelain bisques. Ceramic tile is generally limited to indoor residential use for floors, shower walls, and backsplashes. Floor tile is often used as a wall tile, whereas wall tile is too fragile for flooring. Porcelain tile is much stronger and can be used in all the aforementioned areas in addition to commercial and heavy traffic areas. Because of its strength, porcelain tiles can be made in larger formats. Popular sizes installed today are 20" x 20" and 12"x 24" where they are used for floors and walls throughout the home, including bedrooms. The current trend is to use even bigger tiles such as 18" x 36", 24" x 48", and larger. We often hear a customer say that they have too small of a space for a large tile, but in reality, a larger tile makes a space look and feel bigger since there are fewer tiles and grout lines. A contractor simply cuts the tile to fit the space. The added bonus is the bigger the tile the less grout to see and maintain! Another benefit of porcelain tile is that many are freeze/thaw resistant which means you can use not all, but many for exterior applications. If natural stone is your interest, then most natural stones need to be 1/2" thick. 40

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For those who want hardwood floors but are concerned about the wear and tear of family life and pets, porcelain wood-look tile planks are an ideal way to go. In many cases the eye cannot tell the difference between hardwood flooring or wood-look tile planks. They can be used throughout the home with the added bonus of using them in bathrooms where one would normally not install hardwood flooring. Due to the high demand for porcelain tile, many manufacturers around the world now produce only porcelain tile. A word of caution: Not all porcelain tiles are created equal. Italian and Spanish made tiles continue to be produced at a much higher quality than tiles made in other countries, with just a few quality products made in the U.S.A. There is an old saying, "you get what you pay for." This is certainly true when one is not properly educated on the country of origin of the tile and its manufacturer. In short, if you have a flat surface with the proper substrate for support, tile or stone can be used nearly anywhere in the home, making it a timeless investment. The key is proper education from a qualified sales person.

DESIGN ADVICE

VIA

CHICO DESIGN CENTER

For more information, visit The Chico Design Center at 2300 Park Ave in Chico or call 530.893.9392.

N E W AGA I N K I TC H E N REMODELING PRESENTS HOUSE CALL:

New In North Chico Originally from the Bay Area, Jayne Kelly decided to follow her parents to Chico in 1991, excited for a change of pace. She began working as a hairstylist at a local salon and met her husband, Eric, shortly after. In 2003, the two purchased their first home together in a new subdivision on the north side of Chico. As the home was under construction, they were able to choose a few upgrades during its building process, customizing it just enough to make it their own. As with any home though, time tends to take its toll, and what was once modern soon loses its flare. The years rolled by, and Jayne saw no shortage of remodeling projects. She and her friend, Stephanie Westlake, purchased the gift shop, Gifted Garden, on Mangrove Avenue in 2011 and converted it into their new salon which they named, The Bungalow. Back at home, the walls had seen eight different colors over 15 years; the carpeting was changed to wood flooring, and new solar made the house eco-friendly. Even with all of the changes, something still wasn’t quite right. Jayne decided it was finally time to update the kitchen and replace the honey oak cabinets, white tile countertops, and brown grout with something more modern. CONNECT

Having followed New Again Kitchen Remodeling projects in Upgraded Living over the years, Jayne remembered that a nearby neighbor had recently updated his home and showcased it in the magazine. She stopped by to check it out and found the design to be clean and modern, with obvious attention to detail. She reached out to New Again and spoke with store manager and resident designer, Ric Powers, who visited the home the following day to provide a bid. She reached out to two other remodeling companies for bids and found New Again’s quote to be 30% lower than their competitors. Perhaps even more important, they were also the only company that had their contractors in-house; both of the others bids included lengthy installs as they either needed to find subcontractors to do the work or required Jayne to find the sub-contractors herself. Not interested in playing construction manager, and pleased with the sizable discount, she decided to go with New Again. Jayne visited Ric at the New Again showroom on Park Avenue and entrusted her kitchen to his care. She explained that she liked the timeless nature of grays and whites and told him that she planned on repainting the cabinets herself. Ric offered his suggestions, the two settled on the perfect combination for Jayne’s kitchen, and they scheduled the install for one week later. New Again’s team arrived on schedule and demoed the tile countertops in Jayne’s kitchen. Swan white granite with an eased edge replaced the old tile, and a beautiful

dawn sink was added to complement the new granite. To match the kitchen, they also installed the same granite in her laundry room. The entire process took only two days to complete. New Again’s tile expert, Victor Cabrera arrived two weeks later and installed 4 x 12 Bedrosian backsplash tile in Gace/Moka throughout the kitchen and laundry room, completing the project in a few short hours. With the remodel now complete, Jayne couldn’t be happier with the results. “I love my new kitchen.” Jayne said, “It just looks so much more open and everything is easier to clean. Ric was such a pleasure to work with. He was super honest, and he didn’t just take my advice; he listened to what I liked and provided the guidance I needed to make sure everything was done right. I really appreciated that. The entire team was so kind, and it was clear that they truly cared about my project. They cleaned up their mess when they were finished and respected my home as if it were their own. I would highly recommend them. In fact, three of my clients have already called them for their remodels.” With another remodeled kitchen on the books, New Again continues to set the standard for kitchen and bathroom renovation in Chico. If you’re looking to start a home improvement project, and are looking for competitive pricing along with impeccable service like Jayne was, call New Again Kitchen Remodeling at 530.899.2888.

NEW AGAIN KITCHEN REMODELING | 2502 PARK AVE, CHICO, CALIFORNIA 95928 | 530.899.2888

Entryway B R I G H T E N I N G U P YO U R

Stop by Little Red Hen Nursery on the corner of 8th and Wall Streets to pick-up everything you need for your garden. Little Red Hen is here to help you cultivate your dream garden and turn it into the therapeutic space it is meant to be. Proudly staffed by adults with developmental disabilities, Little Red Hen Nursery would love to be your one stop shop for garden plants, seeds, soil, fertilizer, tools, pots, and so much more. We specialize in seasonal and unusually hard to find varieties. Our staff is friendly and knowledgeable. It would be our pleasure to help you turn your pride and joy into the garden of your dreams. Discover how to brighten your entryway with a beautiful pot of pansies and johnnyjump-ups. Pansies add a great pop of color during wintertime and can make any entrance or portal to your home feel more welcoming. We will soon have a collection of beautifully planted hanging baskets to add to your entryway or patio. Right now, winter garden boxes are on our mind. We suggest Kale, lettuce, and peas for the perfect mix. They will deliver a perpetual 46

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supply of wintergreens week after week. Come see our abundant varieties for your winter garden box. Roses, roses, roses, do not forget the roses. This is the best time, during the mild months of February and March, to plant these colorful beauties, helping to establish and protect their roots for the warmer weather to come. Bare-root stone fruit trees are prime for planting in early spring. We can show you how easy it is to start your own mini orchard. With just a little mulching and proper pruning you can have a bountiful harvest for years to come. We love what we do, and we do it with love. We are a retail nursery with a purpose. We invite you to come in and meet us. We are inspired to help you create your dream garden and your support and patronage are greatly appreciated. Little Red Hen retail sales and proceeds go directly back into the organization allowing us to hire, train, and inspire more talented adults with developmental disabilities to find their career passion. See you soon & happy planting!

GARDEN ADVICE

VIA

LITTLE RED HEN

For more gardening advice, visit Litte Red Hen Nursery at 189 E 8th Street in Chico or call 530.891.9100.

There are new Federal Housing Authority (FHA) Disaster Relief Home Financing programs available now that can help renters buy their new home. In a time of such unprecedented disaster in our North Valley area, there might be some silver lining out there for those that want to purchase homes. Butte County and the Federal Government are responding to the need for housing options and some of the renting population of Paradise can really benefit. If a renter's home was impacted by the Camp Fire, these federal loan programs make it easier to obtain home purchasing financing with 0% down payment options and forms of credit history relief. Reach out to your Mortgage Advisors/ Brokers and obtain information and guidance. There are now creative housing options that can make sense. For some, these home purchase plans and programs that are now available and may be the best option to remain in Butte County.

Contact Jim Heberle at 530.321.9018 or jim.heberle@stanfordloans. com for your home financing needs of any type. Jim is a full time Sr. Mortgage Advisor at Stanford Mortgage. He also teaches Mortgage Lending and Brokering at Butte College and has been a homeowner and landlord of CA real estate for over 30 years. Jim taught First Time Home Buyer workshops for Butte County for many years and enjoys teaching the advantages of home ownership.

ARTICLE WRITTEN BY JIM HEBERLE

Another segment of the population that has been terribly impacted are the senior citizens of the Camp Fire. There are loan programs available to Seniors, age 62+, that provide the option to stay in Butte County. These are Federal programs with no mortgage payment requirements. This is because of the Federally insured loan programs associated with them. Seniors need to contact a trusted Mortgage Broker/Mortgage Advisor for more information on how this will work for them. So many seniors that are now taking advantage of this program are very thankful that it is available. It is truly a life altering option that can help seniors own their own homes.

We here at Stanford Mortgage, together with our partners at The Select Commercial Group of Real Estate Companies, are finding housing solutions for those affected by the Camp Fire. We have 33 locations in Northern California and Nevada and, rest assured, we are here for you.

PIONE

PROPAG On a rural corner, just outside of the small town of Gridley, sits a 70-acre nursery. There exists an obvious difference between the rows and rows of orchard trees from the surrounding farms in stark contrast to the rows upon rows of impeccably white greenhouses on the grounds of the Agromillora tree nursery. The Agromillora conglomerate originated in Spain in 1986 and opened in Gridley in 2000 under the subsidiary name NursTech. At that time, the nursery only planted and cultivated olive trees. Along with adopting the company’s name, the Gridley site expanded greatly by almonds, peaches, prunes, and pistachios along with its initial crop. Propagate literally means to multiply by natural reproduction. This is accomplished with tissue culture, in which small pieces of plant tissue can be used to produce thousands of plants in a carefully controlled environment. A tour of the greenhouses provides a rapidly visual confirmation of the power of propagation. The result of the quantity of trees produced doubled in 2017 resulting in 80 million plants to date, including 500,000 to 1 million fruit trees alone. The basic nature of this sustainable business centers on constant innovation. The name ‘Agromillora’ means “improvement in agriculture.” The greenhouses have an overwhelming array of propagated trees in impressive succession. The olive plugs, some two and one half inches tall, fully resemble a mature tree. As these trees grow, and reach up to eight to ten inches, they are staked. This process is done by human hands with the guarantee that all trees will be the same height. Working from the genetic level, Agromorilla is proud of these outstanding products obtained from “our mother plant fields.” 50

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GATION

WRITTEN BY KEVIN DOLAN PHOTOS BY FRANK REBELO

EERS Yes, there exist actual orchards on the 70 acre property. The olive, almond, and stone fruit trees orchard follow the 30 years of research to ensure the highest valued products. The olive trees offer clippings that become the new growth trees. Rootstock cuttings propagate other trees, such as Rootpac-R rootstock for almond and peach trees. The overall aim is to develop potential orchards with top-notch materials, grown quickly, efficiently, and professionally before delivery to the local sites. To further support this, the Gridley site has a sales force servicing the vast expanse of entire North State as far as Europe. Many of Agromillora’s growers utilize the super high-density system in which more trees per acre are grown in a close spacing. This allows earlier production of a crop, which allows farmers to quickly recover the cost of installing the orchard. This system also allows mechanization of many of the orchard tasks, from pruning to harvest. Living up to the company name, the Agromorilla family includes innovation as a part of “our day-to-day reality.” The successful introduction of the super highdensity system sparked a needed paradigm shift in the local agriculture scene. The normal way of going about their business includes the constant incorporation of new commercial formats while seeking up-todate cultivation techniques. The key remains keeping improvement “in our nature.” The folks at Agromillora like to think they can “see inside things,” starting with themselves. They further believe that in much the same fashion, they know “how to see the potential inside nature.” All of this innovation and magic takes place in an impressive tree nursery on a 70-acre property just outside the small town of Gridley.

WRITTEN BY EMMA HOPPOUGH

Beautify Improvements That Will

Your Home

Don’t leave your resolutions in January— self-improvement is a year-round activity. With spring cleaning around the corner, we’ve made a list of easy ways to upgrade your life from, and for, the comfort of your own home!

FRAME IT

Do you have trouble parting with old belongings, even after some Marie Kondoinspired decluttering? Worry not: rather than trashing or donating dusty keepsakes, you can treat them as art! Just grab some inexpensive frames and mat board from your nearest craft store and display everything from old cards and ticket stubs to less conventional mementos like pressed flowers or brightly-patterned fabric. Don’t stop at the two-dimensional, either; think about mounting souvenirs or small gifts for even more visual interest. By using matching frames, you can create a tasteful and eclectic collection of your favorite memories—all for just a few bucks.

LIGHT IT

With the sun setting by 6 p.m., you’ll want to keep your space bright. The right lighting can spark a different feeling in every room of your home! First, think about the sort of energy you want each room to produce. Productivity and focus? Consider a bluetoned light that mimics daylight. Relaxation and comfort? You might prefer a warmer light that’s easy on the eyes. Next, find new fixtures that will illuminate your room while displaying your personal style. You have many options to choose from: sleek ceiling 52

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lights, exposed Edison bulbs, twinkling fairy lights, colorful lampshades, or even candles. Let the light in!

PLANT IT

New year, new plants? Leaves may be falling outside, but you can always bring a bit of wilderness indoors without waiting for spring. By becoming a new plant parent, you can refresh your home while giving yourself the satisfaction of helping something grow. Air plants and succulents require very little attention and can also act as trendy decor for your home. If succulents aren’t your style, consider planting a tiny herb garden in a sunlit window—ideally near the kitchen—to brighten up your space and your meals. Go big and go home with an indoor tree like a ficus or palm variety. Even a convincing fake plant can make a room feel new and, you won’t have to worry about watering it.

PAINT IT

Never underestimate the power of a coat of paint. You can revive your whole home by touching up a few pieces of furniture or adding pops of color to old fixtures and accessories. Use just one can of spray paint to unify miscellaneous home goods like toothbrush holders, coasters, or even cabinet knobs. As a bonus, you can also craft some shabby-chic vases for your new plants by upcycling glass jars or cans. For a clean look, go all-white; or, for some color, consider a soft teal or even millennial pink— the choice is yours! Feeling ambitious? You can take on larger projects by repainting worse-for-wear desks, coffee tables, and chairs. A little bit of paint will go a long way. Inspired yet? Home improvement does not need to feel like work; you can play around with it! So have some fun, change things up, and create a space that makes you happy.

MARINADE INGREDIENTS: • 2 cups of lime juice. • 3 cups of virgin olive oil. • I bunch of fresh mint. • 2 tbsp paprika. • 3 tbsp fresh rosemary.

DIRECTIONS: Leave chicken in marinade overnight. Remove chicken from marinade and put in baking dish at 450 degrees for 30 minutes to an internal temp of 165. Top with parmesan and serve with Black Japonica Rice!

• 2 tbsp kosher salt. • 2 tbsp fresh garlic. • 1 cup of water. • 3 oz grated parmesan cheese (optional)

RECIPE COURTESY OF BROADWAY HEIGHTS CALIFORNIA CUISINE. VISIT THEM AT 300 BROADWAY IN CHICO!

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PHOTO BY FRANK REBELO

St. Valentine’s Chicken Breast with Black Japonica Rice

PHOTO BY MICHAEL MEJIA

Gluten Free Peanut ButterChocolate Chip Cookies INGREDIENTS: • ¾ Cup Peanut Butter (Pure Peanut Butter Is Best) • ¼ Cup Honey • 1 Tsp Vanilla

DIRECTIONS: Add ingredients together, in order listed, stir well. Batter will be thick. Drop batter by spoonfuls onto greased cookie sheet, should make 12 cookies. Bake at 350 degrees for 10 minutes.

• 1 Egg, Beaten • ¾ Cup Bob’s Red Mill All Purpose Gluten Free Flour • ¼ Cup Brown Sugar • ½ Tsp Baking Soda • ¼ Cup Chocolate Chips • Optional ¼ Cup Walnuts Or Slivered Almonds

RECIPE COURTESY SHELLEY ANDERSON'S CREATIVE CATERING. FOR MORE INFO, CONTACT 530.893.8277.

THE NEW

PHOTOS BY MICHELLE CAMY

Old Barn Kitchen

Stepping into Old Barn Kitchen feels like walking into Grandma’s house, and it’s not at all by accident. Anton and Chrystal Axelsson have dreamed of building a restaurant that delivered this sensation for years, and have worked tirelessly to make their dream a reality. They’ve faced challenges that would have undoubtedly sidelined others, but through a shared commitment to fulfilling their dreams, they’ve done just that. Originally from Reykjavik, Iceland, Anton was born into one of the most prominent foodie families in the country. His father, a renowned chef, was the host of Iceland’s first TV cooking show and imparted his love for food upon Anton from a young age. He moved the family to Carmel, California when Anton was seven years old and bought into a local restaurant. Anton’s parents would go on to open a restaurant of their own, named Katy’s Korner, in San Ramon. Anton moved to the Bay Area in 2005 to open his family’s second restaurant, Katy’s Kreek, and it was here that he met Chrystal, an artist from Seattle who was looking to escape the rain. The two fell in love and were married shortly thereafter. 56

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Both entrepreneurs, they shared a dream of branching out and opening their own businesses. Chrystal had created a successful online design company and line of paints called Old Barn Milk Paint, which she wanted to bring to life through a retail store. Anton, naturally, dreamed of opening his own restaurant. While browsing business classifieds online, Anton happened upon a restaurant listed for sale in Paradise. He made the trip north and met with the building owners, who serendipitously happened to be old customers of his family’s restaurant in San Ramon. He returned for a second visit with Chrystal, and the two fell in love with the space. Realizing they could both achieve their artistic goals, and inspired to bring something fresh to Paradise, they decided to buy the restaurant and move their family north in June of 2018. On September 10th, after three solid months of 14-hour construction days, Anton and Chrystal opened Old Barn Kitchen at 5542 Clark Road in Paradise to a full-house and rave reviews. The positive support from the community continued to pour in for seven

weeks, until November 8th, when the business was lost to the Camp Fire. Down, but not out, Anton and Chrystal resolved to rebuild. They began looking for locations in Chico where they could continue serving the displaced community of Paradise and the neighbors who welcomed them into their homes with open arms. In the middle of December, they came upon the perfect location at 3rd and Main Streets; they signed the lease and set out to re-open their restaurant in Downtown Chico. Two months have since passed, and Old Barn Kitchen redux is now open in Chico. True to Chrystal’s brand, the restaurant is her Instagram profile—@oldbarnmilkpaint— brought to life. Rustic, vintage, and just like Grandma’s home, the space has just as much to see as it does to taste. Handmade or refinished, each piece of decor embodies a simpler time when quality mattered most. It is this focus on quality that drive’s Anton’s side of the business—the kitchen. With a menu full of items that are made fresh from scratch daily, many of which come from family recipes that are over 35 years old, Anton and his team guarantee that each dish leaving their kitchen is made with the love and attention it deserves.

“The first time I tried Anton’s cooking, I felt like I was home.” Chrystal said, “Seeing our guests’ faces when they tasted our food made all the work worth it. In such a short time, we had already put down roots in the area. We didn’t want to leave a community that had embraced us like family.” “We’re a family here.” Anton continued, “Ramon Silva started working with my family when he was 16. He’s 53 now, and he moved up here with me to open this restaurant. He’s been working with us for 37 years, and he’s like a second dad to me. The whole experience has been amazing—everything is a labor of love. We still have 90% of our original Paradise staff down here working with us.”

locally roasted, co-op farmed Old Barn Living Coffee provides not only the perfect pick-meup, but also a helping hand to families in Guatemala and Colombia. With exactly the same homestyle vibe as their first location, while never sacrificing quality because Grandma never would, Old Barn Kitchen is the perfect addition to Downtown Chico. Open seven days a week from 7:00 a.m.–3:00 p.m., we couldn’t be more excited for what they’re bringing to our community. Stop by 301 Main Street and experience it for yourself.

Breakfast enthusiasts will love the variety at Old Barn Kitchen. With 10 different Benedicts made with fresh homemade hollandaise sauce, country fried steak, blintzes, corn beef hash and eggs, Icelandic pancakes, biscuits and gravy, and many more, there’s no shortage of options. During lunch, international-inspired favorites like jambalaya, Hungarian Beef Goulash, Icelandic fish and chips, and an array of desserts from Anton’s home country are sure to delight the palate. Finally, a selection of beer and wine ensure delicious pairings with every meal while their 57

Helping Artists Rebuild

The Joan Mitchell Foundation has an emergency grant program that helps U.S. based artists who have been affected by a natural man-made disaster on a broad scale. The foundation provides up to a $6,000 grants for visual artists in such mediums as sculpture, painting, and drawing. The grant helps fund the repair of homes and studios, replaces art materials like ink, brushes, power tools, and computers; and also assists in rent of a temporary studio space. Those affected by California wildfires are eligible to apply for funding for up to three years after the event. Before applying, each artist will need an itemization of loss (not including artwork lost), resume, images of work, and three professional references. If you are interested in applying for this grant, please visit the following website for more information, joanmitchellfoundation.org/artistprograms/artist-grants/emergency The Adolph & Esther Gottlieb Foundation also has an emergency grant program that provides financial assistance to artists in need of help after a catastrophe. In order to be considered for this grant an artist must be able to demonstrate a minimum involvement of ten years in their discipline of painting, sculpture, or printmaking. The foundation directors will review all applicants and award grants ranging between $5,000 and $15,000 depending on both merit and their fiscal budget status. To apply for the assistance program, please visit the emergency grant section on the following website, gottliebfoundation.org 58

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The Artistsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Charitable Fund was started in 1995 in order to assist artists all over the United States that have been financially affected by medical, fire, floods, or other catastrophes. For over twenty years, this fund has helped artists pay for a portion of their medical bills and supplies. If you are an artist in need of financial assistance with your medical bills you can contact the fund coordinator, Judy Archibald, by emailing her at CNYNSPRT@aol.com. The U.S. small business administration has a disaster assistance program offering loans and business counseling for those small businesses that have been affected by the Camp Fire. This federal assistance program is a good additional resource if your insurance and FEMA have not been able to fully cover your disaster expenses. You can apply for the loan online at disasterloan.sba.gov, or you can visit one of the two Disaster Recovery Centers here in Butte County. CERF+ emergency assistance is another program that has been helping artists receive grants and compensated help, such as booth fee waivers and discounts or donations on supplies and equipment. To apply for this assistance please visit there website at Cerfplus.org There are also two local establishments that are doing their part to help those affected by the Camp Fire as well. The Chico Art Center has been opening its doors on Sundays from 10:00 a.m.â&#x20AC;&#x201C;4:00 p.m. for artists to use their classrooms to work on their craft as well as use the free supplies donated by various members of the community. MONCA will be hosting a free kids summer art program to all those kids affected by the Camp Fire. If you are interested, please visit their website or the museum itself for more information. What was lost in the Camp Fire can never be replaced but with the help of these foundations and programs the art world can start to rebuild. Art is an essential part of the healing process and, as a community, we need art to help us express how we feel about what was lost and how our lives have changed. If you are an artist in need of help, I urge you to take advantage of these programs.

WRITTEN BY STACY WALLACE

The Camp Fire destroyed many homes that were filled with years of memories and an irreplaceable amount of hard work. For many people that lived in Paradise, Concow, and Magalia, their home was not only where they lived but also where they worked. Artists and creators of all kinds are now finding themselves without a way to make an income. They lost their workspace, equipment, and all the materials they had built up over the years and beginning the process of replacing and rebuilding can be daunting. Luckily there are a number of foundations and organizations that are offering grants and loans to artists trying to rebuild their businesses.

Peas were actually one of the first crops grown by man. Cave drawings on the border of Thailand and Burma show the crop, with evidence of consumption dating back to 9750 BC. The cultivation of the pea helped bring stability to former nomadic tribes.

INGREDIENT OF THE MONTH:

Peas, Please! Peas are a great vegetable to have in the house because you can grab raw peas for a quick snack or you can cook them in a tasty meal. As a legume, peas are good for both you and the soil. While growing, peas process a certain bacteria found in the soil to produce nitrogen. Peas are high

The three types of peas grown are English peas, snow peas, and sugar snap peas. The pods of English peas, also called garden peas, are too tough to consume and digest. You can eat these shelled bright-green sweet peas raw if you get them fresh or you can cook them in your favorite dishes. You can find English peas in the freezer aisle for a quick side dish, pureed in split pea soup or mixed in with pasta carbonara. Chinese pea pods, or snow peas, get their name from their common placement in Chinese meals. You can eat the flat, edible

pods right off the vine or cook them. You can serve snow peas in salads, stir-fries, sautéed or blanched. When you’re cooking snow peas, make sure to only cook them for one to three minutes. You could lose the vibrant color and beneficial vitamins if you cook them too long.

WRITTEN BY EMILY LEBLANC

in nutrients, thus able to replenish the soil as well. Pea roots also hold the soil in place during harsh conditions, such as heavy rain and wind. These super veggies help your body as they are low-calorie yet nutritious, fibrous, and protein-packed.

Sugar snap peas look like a mix between English peas and snow peas. The rounded pods are crisp, edible, and crunchy. Like snow peas, you can consume the whole pod off the vine or cook them in a delicious dish. Sugar snap peas are commonly served as a side dish since their flavors are so rich and sweet. You can also add them to a main dish, such as a stir-fry. Fresh peas are high in Vitamin C, folic acid, phytosterols, vitamin-k, calcium, iron, copper, zinc, and manganese. These nutrients help the body fight infection, promote DNA synthesis, lower cholesterol, build bone mass, maintain healthy skin and more. Grab some peas from the Chico Certified Farmer’s Market while they are in season to boost your phytonutrients, minerals, vitamins, and antioxidants.

WRITTEN BY EMILY HUSO PHOTOS BY FRANK REBELO

The Essence of Whimsy In a painstaking process that involves digitally stitching together up to 30 photos, photographer artist Bill Di Grazia renders seamless images featuring local landmark buildings. The long-time Chico resident began taking photographs at just eight years old. On a baseball scholarship at Fresno State, he began his studies and pursued his love of beautiful images, earning a degree in photography, commercial arts, and printmaking. After graduation, Bill worked as a graphic artist in San Francisco. Later, he worked in a number of different fields, from sales to advertising to trucking, before starting his own photography business 22 years ago. As a full-time photographer, Bill shot all types of photos, including: portraits, sports, food, and aerials. In an age where nearly everyone owns a camera phone, making good photography more accessible and prevalent than ever, Bill has set his own images apart by artistically altering his photos to create striking, oneof-a-kind compositions. For Bill, the process 60

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begins with a great photograph. Oftentimes, he will spend hours sorting through the thousands of photos in his archives before arriving at a photo that speaks to him. “I’ll see something that hits me just right, and I’ll go to work on it,” Bill muses. In his popular “building series,” Bill drops images of local buildings into dramatic and often unfamiliar landscapes. The series was inspired by a photo that he took of Northern Star Mills. The photo, which centered on the historic building, reminded him of the Lincoln Memorial. In Photoshop, he separated out the building and replaced the background with a highcontrast, stormy sky. When the photo gained popularity, Bill began photographing and artistically rendering other buildings around Chico, including: Schubert’s, Big Al’s, Sierra Nevada Brewery, Tres Hombres, and Chico Nut. Although many of the buildings in Bill’s series are notable Chico landmarks, others are less recognizable and might

not normally warrant a second look. However, no matter what building he is photographing, Bill takes care to commemorate the essence of the subject through his photographic art. “Some of the buildings are just average, ‘nothing’ buildings,” He notes. “But to the person who built that, it was like a monument. It meant something special.” To memorialize each building, Bill perfectly centers each photo, creating well-balanced compositions characterized by drama and a touch of whimsy. To honor Jake, the black lab that is seen in the photo of Northern Star Mills, each photo in the series includes an animal cameo, whether it is a cat, a bunny, or even a penguin. Lately, Bill has been working on a project that involves superimposing black-andwhite photographic renderings onto antique book pages. When he is not working on commissions or chasing turbulent weather to photograph for his stunning sky backgrounds, Bill enjoys traveling and playing softball year-round in a local league. BILL’S BUILDING SERIES IS CURRENTLY ON DISPLAY AT CHICO PAPER COMPANY, WHERE HE CAN BE CONTACTED FOR COMMISSIONED WORK.

COMMUNITY CALENDAR MARCH 2

Real Facts About Snakes Attraction and repulsion. Passivity and aggression. Allure and danger. These extreme dichotomies, along with the ageold symbolism connected with snakes, are what brought me close to these amazing creatures. I am fascinated by their colors and textures as well as form and movement. They are inherently beautiful and anything they can do or any position they can take fails to be anything but mesmerizing. It is often said that “beauty is in the eye of the beholder.” That seems to be the fate of the snake, love them or hate them, most everyone has made an assumption about them that. Throughout the ages, humans have taken to polarizing one side or another, worshiped or feared, hated or revered. One of the most common threads through history is that people have alway exaggerated the snake’s power, thus making them larger than life. As far back as we can tell, from cave paintings in France and Aboriginal rock paintings in Australia, humans have been fascinated by snakes. I have provided first time experiences for both young and old alike. More often than not, the response is “Oh, that wasn’t what I expected”. When I ask young folks why they are afraid of snakes, the answer often is, “Because my mom (or dad) is afraid”. It is interesting how preconceived notions can stay with us. We have taken these amazing creatures to hundreds of classrooms and shared them with thousands of young people in an ongoing effort to educate and entertain. The end result comes with the expectation of producing well informed people that can help ensure that these magnificent creatures are around for many more generations to enjoy. RON'S REPTILES 44 Rock Creek Road, Chico, CA 95973 530.893.2095

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CWA Annual Steak & Prawn DinnerDessert Auction 6:00–10:00 p.m. Durham Memorial Hall, Durham Cost: $35 Info: bythenumbersbutte@hotmail.com

MARCH 6

Peter Gros: Mutual of Omaha’s Wild Kingdom 7:30 p.m. Laxson Auditorium, Chico Cost: $15–$36, chicoperformances.com Info: In the early 60's, Mutual of Omaha's Wild Kingdom ran before the Wonderful World of Disney and 60 Minutes. The show ran from 1963–1971 and was later revived by Animal Planet in 2002. Now, Peter Gros, wildlife expert and conservationist, is the newest co-host of Wild Kingdom and tours the nation to share his stories with clips, pictures and, of course, presenting exotic animals to the audience! Don't miss out on the opportunity to see a variety of snakes, birds of prey, and more! 530.898.6333

MARCH 9

9th Annual Viking Pride Night Butte Creek Country Club, Chico Cost: $60 Info: Their biggest fundraiser of the year, with all proceeds going to classroom grants and an endowment fund. You can help them by donating, purchasing tickets to the VPN, or by buying a brick for our Legacy Walkway. It will be a night of raffles, silent auctions, a whiskey wall, and music (The Retrotones), and will honor two special alumni.

MARCH 10

6th Annual Wedding Show Weekend Noon–3:00 p.m. Cost: Free Canyon Oaks Country Club, Chico Info: weddingshowweekend.com For more information contact, Stephanie at sleclaire@canyonoakscc.com or 530.343.2582 ext. 1 to RSVP. DAYLIGHT SAVINGS 2019

MARCH 16

Incredible Edible Plants 10:00 a.m.–11:30 a.m. Chico Creek Nature Center, Chico Info: We have such a diversity of plant life in Bidwell Park; trying to learn them all can feel overwhelming. Join one of our naturalists for an informative walk through the park, where we’ll focus on the edible ones. We’ll talk about which parts of the plant are edible, and how best to prepare them. Rocking for Paradise 6:30 p.m. (First band at 7:00 p.m., Second band at 8:15 p.m.) El Rey, Chico Cost: $15–$20, elreychico.com Info: The El Rey Theater and Thunder 100.7 are proud to present 4 Camp Fire Relief Benefit Concerts organized by 8 of the best tribute bands on the West Coast! Join us for 4 concerts over 4 months to help raise funds for those in need while having a rocking good time! 100% of the net proceeds will be donated to the Camp Fire Relief Efforts. All ages welcome.

MARCH 17

Shamrock 5K Walk/Run 8:30–10:00 a.m. Orland High School, Orland Info: Join the Orland High School Track and Cross Country teams as they are putting on their 2nd Annual Shamrock 5k Walk/Run, rain or shine! All proceeds go to OHS track and cross country programs. More info, facebook.com/orlandshamrock5krunwalk ST. PATRICK’S DAY

MARCH 30

Hooker Oak School Spring Fling 5:30–11:00 p.m. The Big Room, Chico Cost & Tickets: chicospringfling.com Info: An adult evening out with good company, great music, a delicious dinner and silent auction. Featuring the live band Decades. A portion of the proceeds will go directly to Hooker Oak families affected by the Camp Fire.

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

“Bell, Bodnar, Bodney, Carr, Carter, Freeland…” These boys are much more than students in a fourth period English class. My class. They were a band of brothers, true to this day. I affectionately dubbed them the “police line-up.” This stuck for the year and I was able to state, “Police line-up here?,” and someone would reply, “Cameron’s at baseball, everyone else here.” Two of these names stand out not only for a personal connection, but also by the haunting strength of their enduring friendship. Miles Bell and Chris Bodney share a mirrored vicarious relationship. Chris lives through Miles’ antics, athleticism, and candor. Miles lives through Chris’ steadiness, vision, and mentorship. I am fortunate to know them as English students, varsity basketball players, grooms in marriages I officiated, and dear friends. They both had a connection with my youngest, Jessica, during senior year. Miles leaned on the tutelage from Jess as a valued assist in making the varsity team. She schooled him on what to wear to tryouts, when not to shoot the ball, and saving his fiery countenance for the blacktop. He not only made the team but his Cinderella season ended with Miles hitting a late three in the section championship to beat the cross town rivals. Chris, on the other hand, married Jessica in the Spring. It came via an Economics exhibition pairing students up exploring the cost of weddings, the reality of starting out in a job, and the ups and downs of raising children. Chris remembers being the most sought after bachelor, and working with Jess in our home. He smiles at Jessica wanting to get married barefoot on the beach in Santa Barbara, the place he went to school and met the woman he married. The bonds of friendship are cemented in shared experiences, the normal highs and

lows which occur when spending time together. The “Police line-up” possesses such bonding. Miles and Chris share a different bond stemming from quick drying cement surrounding the strongest rebar. This bond exploded through the tilt of a kaleidoscope of colors—blue and gold, red and gold, gold and blue, black and orange, white and black, and then black. It begins with a guitar riff, followed by the beat of a drum, rising in intensity until Mick Jagger breaks, “I see a red door and I want to paint it black.” Refrain after refrain hits hard until all the instruments cease, safe a sitar and Mick, “I could not see this thing happening to you.” Before their 20th birthdays, these boys who became men, each lost their dad in the most unimaginable, unspeakable, heart shattering manner. The endings made the shock that much more staggering, the bond of shared empathy that much more enduring. These men are now husbands and dads, ones like they remember growing up. They are also professionals trained to help people like me. They commit to insure and ensure, invest and inform, all the while planning with a purpose. These two business colleagues have become confidants for a multitude of folks readying for the transition from work to retirement. They have found themselves serving as mentors for the community who helped raised them, who embraced and wrapped them up, giving them the chance to add to humanity. Miles and Chris moved through Chico as students, athletes, husbands, fathers and now pillars of a better future. They are examples of how love can sustain a friendship, tilting a new kaleidoscope of colors. Miles and Chris discovered the elusive space of giving to others a brighter future without rewriting the past. The police line up is still speaking up for each others’ presence at roll call. 63