Enjoy Magazine: Northern California Living — October 202
Our doctors pride themselves on offering patient-centered care comprised of compassion, accessibility and kindness delivered with the best treatment available. They utilize the most advanced radiation techniques and have experience with both common and rare cancers.
Dr. Lauren Strickland
BREAST ONCOLOGY SURGEON
Dr. Strickland specializes in the treatment of patients with malignant and benign diseases of the breast. She is also well-educated in ultrasound and surgical procedures such as excisional biopsy and lumpectomy. Her mastectomy techniques include skin-sparing and nipple areolar-sparing, oncoplastic, and hidden scar techniques. Dr. Strickland’s experience allows her to treat and manage patients at genetic and high risk of developing breast cancer. She takes great pride and privilege in patient-centered care, relationship-building, and educating patients and the community on breast disease, cancer, and treatment options.
Mercy Medical Center Redding
St. Elizabeth Community Hospital
Mercy Medical Center Mt. Shasta
Experts in cancer care. Here at home.
Cancer can be an overwhelming diagnosis. It calls for all-encompassing care—from loved ones who step up, to providers who collaborate, to innovative treatments that make all the difference. Dignity Health’s nationally recognized North State cancer program is built on that approach, offering comprehensive services—from advanced diagnosis and procedures through supportive care and recovery—to provide care that’s personalized to your needs. And all provided with the guidance of our nurse navigator who will surround you with a healing sense of confidence and purpose.
When it comes to advanced cancer treatment, there is strength in numbers. And there is hope in humankindness. Learn more at DignityHealth.org/NorthStateCancerCare.
CONTENTS
OCTOBER 2025 ISSUE 229
BUILT TOGETHER
—featured stories—
22: Papa Citrus Finds Success in Oroville Soil
38: Gene’s Barber Shop in Corning Celebrates 60 Years
42: Guiton’s Pools, a North State Legacy
56: Bartels Giant Burger Celebrates 50 Years
64: Redding Rancheria Builds Legacy of Female Leadership
72: Ortega’s Restaurant in Palo Cedro
GOOD FINDS
30: Brinkley Furniture Brings Custom Designs to Life
50: Jenny Gomes Inspires New Canners
GOOD TIMES
46: Celebrating Heritage Days in Burney Falls
LOCALS
78: Trina Fey Brings Creativity to Every Stage
IN EVERY ISSUE
18: What I Enjoy: Corky Holden
84: Recipe: No-Bake Fun: A Fall Treat Kids Will Love to Make
88: Enjoy the View : Frank Kratofil
92: What’s Cookin’ : Pumpkin Bread
95: Local Events Calendar
106: Giving Back: NorCal Think Pink
Photo by Michael Killingbeck
Photo courtesy of Guiton’s Pools
Photo courtesy of Papa Citrus
The
T he M c C onnell Found a tion
Helping build bet ter communities th rough phila n th ro py
McConnell Foundation proudly supports One SAFE Place and Eva Jimenez in Dancing with the Shasta Stars.
Eva Jimenez has spent more than 20 years championing education and workforce development at Shasta College and throughout the community. She founded the award-winning STEP-UP restorative justice program, co-founded SHIELD and serves as Chair of The McConnell Foundation Board promoting philanthropy and community well-being. A Redding Rotarian, statewide advocate, breast cancer survivor, wife and proud mom of two, Eva leads with heart and resilience. She will be dancing to shine a light on Transitional Housing—helping survivors and their children find safety, healing and hope.
Transitional housing offers more than shelter—it’s a safe, stable place to rebuild. Families may stay 6–24 months supported by counseling, case management, life skills and housing navigation. In this secure family-centered setting, survivors heal, regain confidence and break cycles of abuse—equipped with tools for lasting safety, stability and independence.
October 18 || 6:00 pm
Cascade Theatre
Tickets on sale NOW ($20-55 depending on seat)
Caregiver Selection & Training
• A Comprehensive Interview Process
• Previous Employment Verification*
• Reference Checks*
• Fingerprint Clearance through Dept. of Justice
• Pre-Employment Drug Testing*
• TB Test
• Hepatitis B Vaccination*
• 5 hours of New Hire Training prior to any client contact
• Motor Vehicle Check*
• 5 hours of Mandatory Annual Training At Home Helpers,
• Comprehensive Training
• Ongoing Support
• Competitive Benefits
• Flexible schedules for nursing students, parents, and anyone passionate about serving seniors with dignity and respect
You’re not alone
Welcome to Hearts of Hope
A support group for grieving parents with young children
If you’re a parent grieving the loss of a partner while raising young children, you’re not alone. Hearts of Hope is a free, ongoing support group offering a compassionate space to connect with others who understand the unique challenges of parenting through grief.
Whether your loss is recent or still part of your daily life, Hearts of Hope is a place for healing, encouragement, and honest conversation. Come as you are—when you’re ready.
1st and 3rd Tuesdays of the month | 6:30-7:30PM | Shasta YMCA
No registration required Childcare and snacks provided:
Contact Mercy Hospice at (530) 245-4070 for more information.
MICHELLE ADAMS publisher
YVONNE MAZZOTTA publisher
RONDA ALVEY editor in chief
KERRI REGAN copy editor
CATHERINE HUNT event calendar website
JAMES MAZZOTTA photography
MICHAEL O’BRIEN advertising sales & marketing manager
Shasta Regional Medical Center reminds you your health is worth it.
Make time for self-checks and mammograms.
shastaregional.com
Know the Signs and Symptoms
Common symptoms to be aware of:
•A lump or thickening in the breast or underarm
•Change in breast size or shape
•Nipple discharge (especially if bloody)
•Redness or scaling of the nipple or breast skin
Make Healthy Lifestyle Choices
Healthy living can reduce risk:
•Exercise regularly (150+ minutes of
•Eat a balanced, plant-rich diet
October is
note from our team a
Collaboration, community and family legacy are built together, and we’re delighted to share some of the stories that showcase them right here in the North State.
We’ll tell you more about the generational leadership at Redding Rancheria, where a team of inspirational women are working together to continue building a future for their community. We also celebrate the golden anniversary of Bartels Giant Burger and the 60-year anniversary of Gene’s Barber Shop, where family members have worked side-by-side to serve generations of happy customers.
Take a trek to the picturesque McArthur-Burney Falls Memorial State Park for Heritage Day, where thousands of people come together each year to honor the area’s storied history and unique geology. Discover activities like apple press juicing, pioneer games and Indigenous dancing, along with music, food and more.
You’ll also be seeing lots of pink this month, as Nor-Cal Think Pink hosts its bag giveaway, golf tournament, car show and more, as well as lighting our Sundial Bridge in all pink. This local breast cancer awareness effort has grown into a national initiative since it was launched in Redding nearly three decades ago.
Of course, we can’t let October pass by without raising a toast to this very magazine, born 19 years ago this month. Wild dreams, boundless imagination and a whole lot of grit launched a publication that has become a community staple, thanks to our talented contributors, advertisers and you, our faithful readers. We built it together, and it’s our honor to tell your stories. Thank you from the depths of our hearts, and cheers to us! Enjoy!
ON THE COVER: Chloe Stewart, Jenae Hagler and James Sehrt IV
Photo by Kara Stewart
Long-lasting. Like-minded. Low-risk.
This October we celebrate 19 years— and begin the countdown to our 20th. Join us each month as we look back on the journey that brought us here.
229
From our first issue in October of 2006 to issue 229 and counting, Enjoy has been honored to share nearly two decades of life in Northern California celebrating community, creativity and connection along the way.
3000+
Over the years, Enjoy has shared thousands of stories spotlighting the people, places and moments that capture the true heart of Northern California.
190+
100s
or more
Our largest issue topped 120 pages—proof there’s never a shortage of stories to tell or reasons to celebrate life in the North State.
120
The furthest our team has driven for a story? More than 190 miles from our home base in Redding! When we set out to feature Northern California’s top counties, no road was too long and no county too small. We met incredible people and gathered stories worth every mile. We’ll always go the distance to bring home the stories that connect our community.
Fueled by quite a few cups of coffee (and plenty of chocolate), our team has powered through deadlines and creative ideas to bring each issue of Enjoy to life— month after month.
WHAT I ENJOY
Corky Holden
Retired. Former computer, printer and consumer market research analyst
Family: Widow since 2005; one daughter, one son, and two grandchildren
How long have you lived in the North State? Since July 2004
What was your very first job? At 16, I worked in medical records at Drummond Hospital in Ridgecrest. I grew up at China Lake Naval Weapons Center in the Mojave Desert. We lived on base with civilians, Navy and Marine personnel/ families. We went to school on base and most of us started school together and graduated together.
WHAT DO YOU ENJOY MOST ABOUT LIVING IN THE NORTH STATE?
The beauty and feeling of inner peace we see every day — Lassen Peak, Mt. Shasta, Lake Shasta, Whiskeytown Lake and so much more.
M.C.
On your down time, would you rather read a book or watch a movie? I love to read and belong to a book club. Historical fiction is one of my favorite readings. A recent book we read was “A Tree Grows in Brooklyn,” which took place before World War I in Brooklyn. This summer when I was in New York City, my daughter and I walked across the beautiful Brooklyn Bridge.
What’s something you’ve done that still makes you proud? Many years ago, I worked for a termite company. The owner was retiring, and he sold the company to three of us employees. It was a huge learning experience, exciting, challenging and very hard work. I was one of the first women in California to pass the state test to be a licensed fumigator.
What’s the most unusual food you’ve ever tried? I tried durian, a large spiky fruit in Malaysia. It literally smells like dirty socks, and very hard to stomach. I did not like it!
What’s one piece of advice you’d give to your younger self? Always treat others with kindness, respect and honesty. Always be a good friend to others.
What’s something on your bucket list that you hope to do within the next five years? More traveling. Croatia is one of my favorite places (my grandfather was from Croatia). I want to charter a crewed yacht in Split, and invite family and special friends to cruise the Adriatic Sea coastline.
If you could become an expert at anything, what would it be? Speaking Italian and Croatian.
If you could swap lives with a character from a book or movie, who would it be? Annie Wilkins from the book “The Ride of Her Life.” It is the true story of a woman who is 63 years old, her horse and dog about their last-chance journey in 1954 across America from Maine to see the ocean in Los Angeles. Maps were not available back then and her route was very long. She did ride through Redding heading south.
What’s a small thing that always makes your day better? Smiling, being happy and positive, playing pickleball and promoting educating women with Philanthropic Educational Organization fundraising.
Photo by
Hunter Photography
PAPA CITRUS FINDS
SUCCESS IN OROVILLE SOIL
hen Chelsea and Leland Papa sold the Oroville home where they had spent five years living while doing a complete renovation, they were determined to move into a new place that was ready to welcome them without need for repair. “We knew that whatever we got we would still work on, but we wanted it to be turn-key,” says Chelsea. No more sleeping on an air mattress in the living room with construction all around.
While the house they fell in love with—a 1940s farmhouse—met the initial criteria of being ready for an immediate move-in (though they did an extensive renovation prior to unpacking boxes anyway), it came with an even bigger undertaking—a 20-acre orange grove just a little bit older than the house. Chelsea noticed Leland getting quiet and contemplative when they looked at the property. “I could tell he was really interested,” she says. “Somehow we ended up making an offer.”
A sign announcing Papa Citrus went up before the family even moved in.
“We came into this very impulsively and abruptly,” Chelsea says of their family’s transition to citrus farming in 2017. They weren’t city folks yearning for an agrarian lifestyle. They didn’t inherit an agricultural way of life. And they didn’t have any farming experience. But they were a can-do couple with no shortage of do-it-yourself energy. ▶
continued on page 24
Photos courtesy of Papa Citrus
ABUNDANCE
We wanted to make this more than a hobby....
Their family of six moved in just prior to their first harvest and hired Sunkist to come in and take care of the fruit. After a second year of partnership with the fruit giant, they realized they wanted more involvement and a direct link to their product and customer. “We wanted to make this more than a hobby and to enjoy it,” says Chelsea.
Gratefully, neighbors stepped in with both history and knowledge of the land and citrus farming that they shared readily. Before long, Chelsea and Leland became versed in sizing oranges and calculating BRIX scores for sugar content. Experience taught that the U.S. Postal Service is the best to ship far and wide. Packing boxes for shipment has become a well-oiled process.▶ continued on page 27
Built Together
Family-owned businesses are the heartbeat of our community. We invite you to support these advertisers who pour their passion, values and hard work into serving the North State.
Erin and Skip Murphy are a daughter and pop shop real estate brokerage, operating from Redding since 2011. They recently surpassed $80M in homes listed and sold using the Shasta MLS. They sell homes for 1%, utilizing a solid program with a proven track record. Visit their website, or hours by appointment at their office at 639 Lake Blvd.
Clear Vision Ahead
Inspired by summers in Shingletown as a child, Nancy Ekelund O.D. has returned to the mountains to bring over 40 years of experience in eye care to a community she cherishes. Slowing down and focusing on quality, affordable eye care for patients, her practice offers complete exams, contact lens fittings, disease diagnosis and treatment, Lasik evaluations and more. Medicare, VSP and other insurance plans welcome.
All Wheel Auto, Truck & RV has been family owned going on 45 years. With a reputation for excellence, the shop is very well known for their skilled technicians, quality service, and commitment to customer satisfaction. Rave reviews highlight their staff, workmanship and over the top sensitivity to the needs of the customer; making All Wheel Inc. the go-to place for auto, truck, RV and Motorhome service and repairs.
Our kids go to those schools so they eat them and their friends eat them
An Instagram page chronicling the growth of the farm brought in the first customers and signaled that the family was on to a viable endeavor.
This month, Papa Citrus is taking pre-orders for its 2025 Christmas oranges that will open a harvest that will roll out from December through March. The family has created four distinct pathways for their crop and can joyfully say that they’ve figured out a business plan that is meaningful and satisfying.
There’s something special about Papa Citrus, Chelsea says, and she believes it’s the soil of the Oroville area. “Up here it’s not easy, but it’s the absolute best,” she says. Roots struggle in rocky red dirt but develop strong, hardy trees. The hill where the orchard is planted provides good drainage, and the nights are cool without freezing. “They get so incredibly sweet without compromising the tree,” she adds.
The smallest fruit are sold to area schools through the nutrition program. “Our kids go to those schools, so they eat them and their friends eat them,” says Chelsea. “We get so much joy from selling to the schools. The school districts are phenomenal and put nutrition and the students at the forefront.”▶ continued on page 28
“It’s not all sunshine and roses,” says Chelsea. “It’s so much hard work and so many things get sacrificed. But what we’ve done is darn amazing. It’s been an amazing journey.”
community. “It means as little waste as possible and we have people benefit from them,” says Chelsea.
The original shipping program has expanded rapidly, with customers coming back year after year, with many on a monthly plan until the very last orange has been picked for the season. The boxes are particularly appealing to those in states with cold, dark winters. A box of Papa Citrus is like a ray of sunshine with the sweet and brightly colored navel oranges. The fruit are strong and hardy and ship well. “They’re not washed, not waxed. They are as fresh as you could possibly get,” says Chelsea. “It’s like a u-pick.”
For locals, the farm hosts a stand with oranges available on the honor system. Finally, the family invites food banks out to select fruit from the loss bins to feed the
“Every one of those avenues is really fulfilling for us,” she adds. They also enjoy partnering with local businesses to send a bonus gift with the Christmas boxes each year. Past offerings have included handmade citrus-scented candles and soaps as well as packets of Tenderly Rooted walnuts.
“It’s not all sunshine and roses,” says Chelsea. “It’s so much hard work and so many things get sacrificed. But what we’ve done is darn amazing. It’s been an amazing journey.” •
Papa
Citrus * www.papa-citrus.myshopify.com
Melissa Mendonca is a graduate of San Francisco State and Tulane universities. She’s a lover of airports and road trips and believes in mentoring and service to create communities everyone can enjoy. Her favorite words are rebar, wanderlust and change.
More Than Just a Screenprinting Shop
They are your neighbors. Locally owned and family operated, Boundary Waters Screenprinting brings quality, care and creativity to every project. From team jerseys to event merch, they help you share your message in style. They are proud to be part of this community — supporting local causes, cheering on local teams and printing for the people who make our town great.
907 Hartnell Ave., Redding
530.221.2151
boundarywatersink.com
Redding’s favorite bowling alley is serving up fun with 16 lanes, next-level bowling experiences, arcade games, a full bar, and mouthwatering food. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, joining a league, or just chasing strikes with friends, Country Bowl is the place to be. Family-owned and open 7 days a week—come for the good vibes, stay for the great memories!
Home financing is one of the biggest endeavors people take on in life. That’s why Cindy Tomlinson doesn’t work 9–5—she works start to finish to ensure her clients enjoy a smooth mortgage experience. She’d love to help you with: Home purchase loans, refinancing and tapping into home equity.
shaping possibility crafting a vision
BRINKLEY FURNITURE BRINGS CUSTOM DESIGNS TO LIFE
n easy riddle today: What do a 3D program, a computer-driven router and a small wood shop have in common? That, of course, would be Michael Brinkley, master woodworker of Brinkley Furniture in Redding. Brinkley crafts original tables and chairs and entertainment center shelves with cabinets—any furnishings, really, specifically designed for each individual taste.
To do this, Brinkley invites each customer into his shop, where they describe the furniture of their dreams. He adds dimension to their description, modeling it into a 3D mesh on his computer, which is connected to a
router set to grind precision cuts into sheets of wood. He assembles these pieces with long-practiced hands, finishing with a wood oil wipe or a clear coat spray.
The customer being part of the process from inception is one reason Brinkley speaks as if each job is a team effort. “We build out of solid wood, which we locally source, and also some veneered plywood. We stay away from particle board that breaks down easily when it's wet,” he says. “So our furniture is probably a little more expensive, but we have a good warranty and everything is handcrafted.” ▶ continued on page 32
Photo courtesy of Brinkley Furniture
“If I could build things like fireplace mantles and cabinets, then I could manipulate wood to work in any way that I could visualize. I knew one day I would actually create furniture from my thought process.”
Whatever the price, it doesn’t seem to cost him customers.
Los Angeles resident Mark Ortega hired Brinkley to help furnish his second home in Redding. “He’s just a pleasure to work with and kick around ideas and concepts,” Ortega says. “He draws on all that experience to help my wife and I make a decision as to the different looks and different types of wood and stains. And he uses top-notch materials. We just love his work.”
All that experience began more than 30 years ago in Louisiana, when a family friend in construction offered him a position more enticing than his grocery bag boy job. Only 16 years old, Brinkley left school to build houses. He knew nothing about the trade, but over the years he grew into it, then beyond it. In the empty rooms he built, he imagined how he could fill them.
“I walked into a room that was just Sheetrock, just looked plain and void. But then as you start adding trim to it, it starts coming as its own character,” Brinkley says. “If I could build things like fireplace mantles and cabinets, then I could manipulate wood to work in any way that I could visualize. I knew one day I would actually create furniture from my thought process.”
He opened his own shop near the Alabama/Florida border. Within a few years, his work became recognized and he reached out to interior decorators in the Florida Panhandle to promote himself. “One of my clients had just built a home and we built him about a half a million dollars’ worth of furniture,” Brinkley recalls. “That was a pivotal point in my life.”
Another pivotal point in his life was his reunion with his first girlfriend. High school left behind, life pulled them in different directions, each into their own marriage, each later divorced. They reconnected across the country, talking back and forth between Florida and California. A few years ago he moved his life to Redding to be with her, now his fiance.
As he did in Florida, Brinkley reached out to team with interior designers in the region, including in San Francisco, Sacramento, Lake Tahoe and here in town. One in Redding, Dustyn Kellar, owner of Curated by Kellar Design, says what sets him apart from other local crafters for her is that he touches base.▶ continued on page 34
Photos by Richard DuPertuis
Photo courtesy of Brinkley Furniture
www.chicofootandankle.com
E E P Y O U F R O M
H AT Y O U L O V E
Specializing in managing complicated foot and ankle problems.
• Specialist in painful arthritis of the foot and ankle.
• Ankle replacement procedure. • Heel and arch pain.
E PA I N
• Minimal pain techniques for bunion and hammertoe repair.
405 South St. Suite F, Redding 676 E. 1st Ave., Suite 9, Chico 530.342.5621 D O N ’ T L E T F O O T A N D A N
“He’s more present. Michael invites me to his studio and he comes here,” she explains. “He’s on social media all the time. He remarks on my social media. He posts things about projects we worked on together. So I think because of that, it seems like more of a complimentary relationship than a one-way relationship.”
Brinkley says that’s another reason for the “we” in his vernacular. “I am the CEO of the company, and I do a lot of everything from the top down, the design the process, but we also collaborate with interior designers and upholsterers. So I like to say “we” as a team, because it’s more than just me.”
Looking ahead, Brinkley shares his latest creation, a chair inspired by Redding’s most revered landmark. “The shape is of the Sundial
One of my clients had just built a home and we built him about a half a million dollars’ worth of furniture,” Brinkley recalls. “ That was a pivotal point in my life.”
Bridge, the long, tall tower portion of it,” he says. “We’ve already got a prototype. We’ve sat in it. We’ve got a few customers interested, so we’re pretty much taking preorders for it now.”
Brinkley Furniture strives to meet a deadline of four or five weeks from the approval of a sketch to delivery of a custom, hand-built furnishing. Its owner emphasizes that if someone comes to him with no design at all, bringing him just an inkling of a vision, perhaps a few inspiration photos, he can draw it out for them, by hand or by computer, and show them a design they will love. Their tag line: We didn’t invent furniture, we’ve just perfected it! •
Brinkley Furniture
3985 Eastside Road #7, Redding (530) 972-5231 www.brinkleyfurniture.com Find them on Facebook and Instagram
Curated by Kellar Design 1401 Market St., Redding
Richard DuPertuis is a Redding grandfather who writes. His stories and photographs have appeared in newspapers, magazines and online. He strives for immortality not by literary recognition, but through diet and exercise. He can be reached at dupertuis@snowcrest.net
Photos courtesy of Brinkley Furniture
Don’t Be Spooked by Hearing Loss
This Audiology Awareness Month, treat yourself to better hearing for less—no tricks!
NOW THROUGH OCTOBER 31:
Get $500 off a pair of new premium or advanced hearing aids. Let us help you hear the boo-tiful things in life again!
Call (530) 221-7380 today to schedule your hearing consultation.
HOMETOWN
While the high school marching band sets the beat, Caltrans crews set the cones - keeping your roads safe, clear, and ready for every hometown moment. Because whether it’s Friday night lights or foggy Monday mornings, we show up for the same reason you do: This is home.
Caltrans. Keeping California Connected.
Rocha’s Auto Service has been serving Northern California since 1995. A free shuttle service and available financing are great reasons to use Rocha’s Auto Service. At Rocha’s Auto Service, they treat you like family and take care of your vehicle as if it were their own. Voted Best Auto Repair for the North State in 2023, Rocha’s is soon opening its 2nd shop in Anderson!
Printing Just Got Cool
At Toner Dudes, printing just got cool! They’re the laid-back legends of ink & toner who make it easy to keep printers happy. Their fully customizable online ordering portal is built for each customer’s unique needs so your ink & toner orders and re-orders can be placed in under 30 seconds with no stress. Enjoy savings up to 50% off compared to big box stores, and warranties for the life of the cartridge. No contracts, no pressure. Just good vibes and great toner.
Big Ray’s Auto Glass
Big Ray’s is a drive-in-style windshield repair and replacement service. In business for over 20 years, Ray is your trusted expert on everything from the family car to crafting glass for local hot rods and street rods. Big Ray’s Auto Glass is NGA Certified ensuring top-quality workmanship. Shown here left to right are Michael, Tina and of course Big Ray!
Anthony Thompson VP Sales & Marketing
Harbert Roofing has served Northern California homeowners for over 40 years, delivering trusted roofing solutions with integrity, craftsmanship, and care. Family-owned and operated, they specialize in residential re-roofs, new roof installations, gutters, and roof maintenance. With a reputation for quality and a full-service approach, Harbert Roofing helps protect homes with roofs built to last.
and Service for Every Budget
Jerry and Kim Bay of Redding offer thousands of options and configurations. Their consultants have an average of 10 years of experience in home design. With you every step of the way, their professional and friendly support team designs solutions to match your style for any room in your home. They measure, they design, they install and you relax! Budget Blinds, making homes beautiful for over 23 years.
Craftsmanship, Inspired By You
Brinkley Furniture is a company embracing time-honored craftsmanship. Their artisans meticulously create bespoke furniture using old world techniques. Each piece is a masterpiece, blending exquisite design and premium materials to elevate your space. Rediscover the art of custom furniture, crafted with timeless skill and tailored to your unique style and vision.
Sixty Years SHARP
There was no internet,” Gene says.
“The barbershop was the meeting place in town. You’d get guys stopping by on their lunch breaks just to sit, sip coffee and chat.
GENE’S BARBER SHOP IN CORNING CELEBRATES 60 YEARS
ene’s Barber Shop in Corning doesn’t look much different than when Gene Hutchens first owned the shop in 1965. The prices have gone up a bit, and the original three chairs are now two, thanks to a pandemic-era health order. But the soul of the place—the camaraderie, the conversation, and the sense of smalltown connection—has stayed steady for 60 years.
Gene Hutchens took over the barbershop in the Holiday Shopping Center on Solano Street soon after graduating from barber school in Sacramento. Back then, a haircut cost $1.50—hard to come by in those days, Gene notes. He’d heard through the grapevine that the Corning shop’s previous owner needed help. He showed up, made a good impression, and the shop was his shortly after.
“Back then, Corning reminded me a little bit of Mayberry RFD,” Gene says. “Everybody seemed to know everybody.”
He took over the clientele and quickly built friendships into decadeslong relationships. “We try to be very courteous to every customer who walks through the door,” Gene says. “It’s that simple.”
That simple formula carried the business through all kinds of changes—some cultural, some economic. In the 1970s, long hair came into style, and barbers everywhere had to adapt or risk being left behind. Gene stuck it out.
Then, in 2007 or 2008, a new shop popped up across the street, advertising $6 haircuts when Gene’s shop was charging nearly double. So, they put up their own sign: “We fix $6 haircuts.”
The other shop didn’t last more than six months.
Customers knew what they wanted—value, not just low prices. “They didn’t want a $6 haircut,” Gene says. “They wanted a Gene’s haircut.” ▶
continued on page 40
It’s
like a second home,” Luke says.
“We’re in tune with Corning. If you need a plumber, we probably know the best one. Need an electrician? Same thing. That’s the kind of place it is.
Gene’s son, Luke Green, started working in the shop in 2006 and slowly took over the reins. Like his dad, Luke doesn’t think of himself as just a barber. He sees the shop as a community resource—a place where people come not only for a trim but to connect.
“Every day is something different,” Luke says. “And the people are great.”
Luke grew up in the shop, swept hair, and watched his dad build relationships with men from all walks of life—farmers, retirees, auto parts salesmen, local laborers, businessmen and the occasional out-of-town visitor.
“There was no internet,” Gene says. “The barbershop was the meeting place in town. You’d get guys stopping by on their lunch breaks just to sit, sip coffee and chat.”
Those spontaneous drop-ins still happen. Some folks bring donuts. Others just come by to check in. And around the holidays, a few longtime clients still show up with a small bottle of “liquid enjoyment,” as Gene puts it.
“It’s like a second home,” Luke says. “We’re in tune with Corning. If you need a plumber, we probably know the best one. Need an electrician? Same thing. That’s the kind of place it is.”
Over the years, Gene’s served all kinds of people—and he means all kinds.
“Rich man, poor man, beggars and thieves,” he says, with a chuckle. “That covers everybody.”
Now 60 years in, Gene still works the shop when he can, but Luke leads the day-to-day operation. The prices are modest: $15 for a haircut, $11 for a shave and $7 for a beard trim. More importantly, customers can count on consistency.
“Our customers want a certain style, and it’s our job to give it to them,” Luke says. “It takes listening. And remembering.”
Gene says the business has survived not just because of good haircuts, but because of the way customers are treated—like family. He’s made house calls for elderly or sick clients. In the past, he’s even gone into hospitals to give a familiar trim to someone who needed a little comfort.
“We are a friend to everybody,” he says. “And everybody loves to have a friend.”
That same attitude has helped build not just customer loyalty, but a generational legacy. The shop hasn’t moved in six decades, and it’s had the same family landlords since day one. Gene credits Ray Lacamire—along with his daughter, Ann Williams, and her husband Bud—for supporting the business through thick and thin.
“I’ve kept this thing going so long because I can see the benefit to me, the benefit to my son and the benefit to the public,” Gene says. “I love it.”
As Gene’s Barber Shop marks 60 years in Corning, it’s clear this is more than just a place to get your ears lowered. It’s a gathering place. A listening post. A little piece of old-school Americana that’s somehow still thriving in the modern age.
And as long as there are stories to swap, hair to trim, and friendships to build, Gene’s Barber Shop will keep the chairs turning. •
Gene's Barber Shop
Holiday Shopping Center, 1952 Solano St., Corning • (530) 824-2766
Al Olson loves culinary arts, adult beverages and hiking in the North State wilderness. You may find him soaking up the scenery at one of our area’s many state or national parks or sitting in a barstool sipping a cold locally brewed craft beer.
French Inspired, Locally Loved
La Joie Bakery was born from Bryan and Kate Grennell’s dream of blending food, family, and community. What began as flour-dusted counters and late-night purpose talks has grown into a French-inspired bakery with heart at its center. With their six kids, they’re raising the standard in pastry and service—one ‘joie’-filled bite at a time.
1551 Market St., Suite 132
530.780.5229
LaJoieBakery.com
kate@lajoiebakery.com la_joie_bakery_at_kates
Best of Both Worlds
The story began at a local farmers market, where Nathan Maupin (Sourdough Baker) met Adrienne Tirri (Pastry Chef). With 25+ years of combined experience, they’ve always shared a love for artisan bread and homemade pie. Now, their brick-and-mortar shop blends these delicious worlds. Locally sourced and community supported, they are open 7 days a week for breakfast, lunch and espresso drinks. Proudly voted Best of the North State in 2023 and 2024!
1768 Churn Creek Road, Redding 530.215.3002
whenpiemeetsbreadbakery.com whenpiemeetsbread
Look no further than Gard Heating & Air Inc. Their technicians offer full-service solutions for all heating and cooling systems. With expert knowledge, they provide customers with the information needed to make the best decision to repair or replace their equipment. At Gard, excellence is the standard.
8950 Airport Road, Redding
530.221.7494
Jessica Zettlemoyer Photography
Building Backyard Dreams
GUITON’S POOLS, A NORTH STATE LEGACY
wimming pools have come a long, long way since the days of Granny Clampett and her Beverly Hills “cee-ment” pond, and in the past 57 years, the staff at Guiton’s Pool Center has seen, designed and built them all.
In fact, the Beverly Hillbillies was still on the air when Richard “Dick” Guiton established the pool center in 1968. A pool decking and concrete contractor who moved up from Southern California’s San Fernando Valley in 1967, Guiton slowly built his business to where it was responsible for more than 3,500 North State pools by the time he passed in 2015.
Dale Simpson, who was a 20-year-old from Fortuna fresh off a budding career in the grocery business and enjoying the recreational offerings around Redding, joined the Guiton’s team in 1975 when he started work as a laborer. (He had recently met his future wife, Guiton’s daughter, Vicki, while coaching her softball team. The couple have three children—Kaci, Blake and Kori—and five grandchildren.) ▶ continued on page 44
Photos courtesy of Guiton’s Pools
“The clientele has been a lot of fun. It’s been all over the roadmap,” Simpson says.
Three years later, Simpson was a partner in the company and eventually, thanks in large part to his developing skill as a pool designer, he became Guiton’s sole salesman by age 26. “I had 17 families relying on me for a living,” Simpson says of the pressure he felt.
He needn’t have worried. Swimming pools go hand-in-hand with the North State’s overly warm summers and mild winters, offering owners an extended swimming season and making pools more of a practical investment. Redding’s climate is well-suited for taking advantage of energy-efficient features like solar heating.
Simpson became the general manager in 1989 and bought the business in 2007. Guiton’s Pool Center currently has a 62-member workforce. Back when he was strictly in sales, Simpson says a pool would typically cost $10,000 to $11,000. Prices have gone up (six figures is not uncommon), but so has the degree of complexity.
Pools now are more sophisticated,” Simpson says. “They have evolved into water features and have become the center for family entertainment.”
Design features can include swim-up bars, vanishing edges, rock waterfalls, pebble finishes, gently sloping “beach” entries, splash
pads and laminar fountains that send perfectly clear glass-like streams of water arcing into the pool. (Think of a miniature Fountains of Bellagio in your backyard.)
Fire bowls and gazebos can be added, along with exotic materials like granite, marble and glass tile. In-floor cleaning systems can take the place of roving robotic sweepers and lighting options can enhance the mood and extend the pool’s use into the evening hours— and everything can be controlled from a cellphone, Simpson says.
Guiton’s has a retail center at its Larkspur Lane location that features a large line of spas and woodstoves. Its service department takes care of 1,200 pools on a weekly basis.
Simpson says he’s been in the pool business for 48 years and has designed and sold more than 1,000 pools; Guiton’s has been in business for 57 years. During that time, the company has worked with its share of North State notables, including Merle Haggard, Bing Crosby and Clint Eastwood (“a very nice man,” Simpson says).
“The clientele has been a lot of fun. It’s been all over the roadmap,” Simpson says. •
Guiton’s Pool Center 2305 Larkspur Lane, Redding (530) 221-6656 www.guitons.com
Jon Lewis is a Reddingbased writer with more than 40 years of experience. A longtime San Francisco Giants fan, his interests include golf, fishing and sharing stories about people, places and things. He can be reached at jonpaullewis@gmail.com.
Photo courtesy of Guiton’s Pools
Photo by Michael Killingbeck
Photo by Michael Killingbeck
Fall into Trusted Plumbing Care
Royal Plumbing has been family-owned since 1970—and while their roots run deep, they’re all about staying current with the latest technology to make your life easier. From fast repairs to full installations, they offer reliable, long-lasting solutions, pipe lining, water filtration and emergency service when things go sideways.
19810 Hirsch Court, Anderson
530.222.1700
royalplumbingredding.com
CA Plumbing License # 879168
Welcoming Redding as Family
Dill’s Deli was established in 2004 serving the Redding area for over 20 years. Serving exceptional sandwiches, salads, BBQ, catering and concessions, Dill’s continues their community outreach with 32 Below and new hot dog concessions in downtown Redding. It’s no wonder Dill’s slogan is “we feed you like you’re family!”
A&R Heating & Air Conditioning has proudly served the community for 52 years. As second-generation owners, Brad and Teresa Reeder are committed to quality work and honest service. Their simple philosophy: treat every customer like family. Your comfort and satisfaction come first—we’re not done until you’re happy. Ask about our FREE heat exchanger safety inspection today! Quality Work Done Right The First Time
20275 Skypark Drive, Suite C, Redding 530.246.9777
Photos courtesy of McArthur-Burney Falls Heritage Day
Where Healing Begins At The Roots
Discover natural healing at Rooted Vitality Cryo & Wellness Center, owned and operated by Ashlee Jansen. With a focus on root-cause wellness, Ashlee and her amazing team provide services such as cryotherapy, PEMF, HOCATT ozone therapy, infrared sauna, red light therapy & more! Whether you seek pain relief, faster recovery, or improved vitality, they are here to guide you. Visit today for a tour and begin your healing journey.
Local Partner in Business Success
Running a business is challenging—especially in California. At O2 Employment Services, we understand the pressure of managing payroll, HR, benefits, staffing, and compliance. Locally owned and deeply rooted in Northern California, we offer the expertise, tools, and support you need to thrive. From accurate payroll to strategic staffing, we’re more than a provider—we’re your partner. Trusted. Experienced. Local. Let’s grow your business together.
Meet Dan and Ryan, third generation family jewelers. Field’s was founded in 1953 by their grandparents after retiring from the U.S. Coast Guard and continued with their parents. Serving the Redding community for 72 years, they are a family experience where jewelry is crafted and memories are made. Friendly store greeters Abbie and Bayley on staff. Custom-designed engagement rings are their specialty.
fieldsjewelers.com
PRESERVING THE MOMENT
JENNY GOMES INSPIRES NEW CANNERS
here’s something magical about Jennifer Gomes. She manages to be both modern and classic all at the same time. She’s a youthful, busy mom, who also happens to be a master pressure canner with a podcast and a cookbook, among other ventures. And she’s not about spending all day in the kitchen.
“...my audience is people who have a two-hour chunk of time on a Saturday where they’re not rushing to a soccer game or squeezing in some work from home, and they have this amazing flat of peaches from the Farmers Market. These are my people.”
“I’ve had many people tell me they want to can like their grandmother did, and I love that sentiment so much,” she says. “But my audience is people who have a two-hour chunk of time on a Saturday where they’re not rushing to a soccer game or squeezing in some work from home, and they have this amazing flat of peaches from the Farmers Market. These are my people. I love teaching food preservation
in small to moderately-sized batches with techniques and tools that are fast and easy. Yes, you can roast these vegetables today, then pull them out of the fridge tomorrow and do the processing. It’s only three steps that feels much more achievable to the person with 90 minutes while the baby naps. To be honest, I’ve never made marmalade in my life.” Cheekily she adds, “It’s not my jam.”
Traditionally, there are two types of canning: pressure canning and water bath canning. Pressure canning preserves low-acid foods, while a boiling water bath is used for high-acid foods. And, while pressure canning can admittedly feel intimidating to a firsttimer, Gomes insists that with the right tools and guidance, anyone can have a pantry filled with hearty, shelf-stable ingredients.
“Pressure canning suffers from a bad case of urban legend rumors because a lot of people have heard a story about someone having an explosion. But, using the instant pot as your reference, there’s a locking lid and a buildup of heat inside. Accidents usually happen because the lid is taken off before the pressure subsided inside. But new pressure cookers come with lots of safety features.”
Gomes also has a tip for first-timers. “My first recipe in the cookbook isn’t bone broth. It’s water. You can practice and have a couple of jars for under your sink in case of emergency. Or, you can just dump it down the drain and start all over. It’s a low -stakes, 100 percent success recipe that helps you get the hang of going through the process without having to think about the food part, and realizing it was way easier than expected.”
Gomes’ inspiration for stocking food stems from her own family roots. “I come from the land of chest freezers. I was a cattle▶ continued on page 52
Photos courtesy of Jennifer Gomes
•
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rancher’s daughter, and the mode of food preservation for lowacid foods was just freezing things. But there are many people that don’t have access to that much freezer space, and pressure canning is a way around that. Jars are shelf-stable once they’ve come out of the canner and cooled. In fact, there’s a really inspiring canner named Marisa McClellan, and she canned for years in a tiny Philadelphia apartment. I just loved her perspective because she would store jars on cookie sheets under her sofa. She was always in pursuit of this wonderful sunny taste inside a jar, and she did it in a city, not a homestead.”
Gomes also insists there’s no replacement for knowing what goes into your food. “The ubiquitous American glass mason jar is a great metaphor for the idea that you can see what’s inside. So, whether you’re water bath canning jam or pickles, or you’re pressure canning soups or bone broth, you get to decide what goes in there. If you feel good about a conventionally grown flat of strawberries you got at the grocery store, go for it. If you want to be super intentional and source farmer-grown organic strawberries, or even better yet, support a farmer that butchers in a way that you feel good about and preserve that meat in jars,
HEALTH WISE
you get to decide all of that. It puts a huge degree of control in your hands when you know how to preserve your own food. That might be overwhelming for some people. But if you give yourself permission to cook with what’s available, it’s definitely going to be tastier than what comes from the store, and it’s probably going to be cheaper and healthier. Just give yourself permission to be imperfect in your pursuit of what might be your health ideals. That’s where the magic is.”•
The Perfectly Preserved podcast with Anna Cash and Jenny Gomes can be found by visiting thedomesticwildflower.com/perfectly-preservedpodcast/. The Pressure Canning Cookbook is available at a variety of booksellers.
Megan Peterson is a freelance storyteller who loves her family, her pets, and Northern California. Her favorite part of writing is finding flow, and she always relishes a touching human story. Aside from Enjoy, she’s typically busy writing and producing for television, having created more than 220 hours of on-air content on networks ranging from National Geographic to Netflix.
“Fig ht the Bite”
P rac ti c ing Mo s quito Ab ate me nt
Summer evenings are best spent outside not swatting mosquitoes! Mosquito abatement is an easy way to protect your family and keep our community healthy. Dump out standing water from buckets, bird baths, or old tires where mosquitoes like to breed, and make sure your window screens fit tightly. If you’re heading out at dawn or dusk, toss on some long sleeves or use mosquito repellent. You can
also turn to cultural alternatives such as sweet grass, lemon balm, and California mugwort plants which have been used for generations as natural, DEET-free repellents. With a few simple steps, we can all “Fight the Bite” and enjoy the season together.
For more information or resources on mosquito abatement contact the Greenville Rancheria Mosquito Abatement Team.
Rancheria
HEALTH PROGRAMS
Family Practice
Pediatrics
Medical Facilities
Dental Facilities
Medical transport within Plumas and Tehama Counties
PARTICIPATING IN PARTNERSHIP AND MEDI-CAL MANAGED CARE
AS A COURTESY, WE WILL BILL MOST INSURANCES
NATIVES AND NON-NATIVES
Open for Walk-ins. 8am – 5pm.
Medical - Dental Monday - Saturday 8am-5pm
BARTELS GIANT BURGER
CELEBRATES 50 YEARS
n 1975, Dennis and Carole Bartel opened a burger stand on Bechelli Lane in Redding with a simple mission: serve a really good, old-fashioned burger using fresh ingredients—and do it with a smile.
Fifty years later, Bartels Giant Burger is still family-run, still rooted in that same mission, and still serving generations of customers who know exactly what to expect: a quality meal and a warm welcome.
Today, the Bartels operate three locations—in Redding, Anderson, and Corning—with the help of their two sons and a grandson. Their original shop on Bechelli Lane may have closed in 2003, but the spirit of that little burger stand lives on.
“We just wanted to create a place where people could get a really good burger and be treated kindly,” says Carole Bartel. “That philosophy hasn’t changed.”
The Bartels’ journey began far from Redding. Dennis and Carole moved to California from Nebraska in a 1940 Ford pickup, settling first in the Bay Area. Dennis worked as a heavy-duty diesel mechanic, and Carole was an office secretary. After a transfer opportunity opened up with the Operating Engineers Union in the mid-1960s, Dennis visited Redding and immediately saw its potential as a great place to raise their young boys. “We loved the slower pace, the mountains, the community,” Carole says. “So, we took a leap of faith.”
That leap became a family legacy. With encouragement from Dennis’ brother, Don, who was in real estate, and inspiration from their favorite burger joints in the Bay Area, they opened their first restaurant in June 1975. By January 1976, they’d added a second location on Lake Boulevard. Then a year later came a third in Anderson. “It was chaotic,” Carole says with a laugh, “especially with two little boys and no experience in the restaurant business. But we figured it out.”
Walk into the Redding Bartels today, and you won’t find touchscreens, digital kiosks, or menu items with hard-to-pronounce ingredients. What you will find is the same Giant Burger made with fresh, never-frozen beef sourced from R&R Quality Meats in Redding—the same beef company they started with 50 years ago. “Our customers love that we haven’t changed much,” Carole says. “There’s comfort in knowing you’ll get the same quality burger you remember from your childhood.”
Alongside the classic third-pound Giant Burger, fries and shakes, the menu has gradually expanded over the years to include a smaller-sized burger, a kid’s burger, Polish dogs, chicken sandwiches, veggie burgers and malts. But the approach remains the same: Keep it simple, keep it fresh.▶ continued on page 58
And affordable, too. A full meal—a burger, fries, and a shake—still rings in under $14. A kid’s burger? Just $2.55.
Even after five decades, Dennis and Carole—both now in their 80s—are still active in the business. Their younger son helps manage the Redding and Anderson locations, while their oldest runs the Corning restaurant. Their grandson works in the Redding shop.
“We’ve had a lot of long-time employees, and we treat them like family,” Carole says. That includes birthday gifts, anniversary recognition, Christmas parties and an emphasis on a respectful, supportive workplace. “People appreciate working in a place where they’re valued.”
That culture extends to customers, too. Employees deliver food to tables—no numbers to pick up, no shouting across the counter. It’s part of the old-fashioned service philosophy Carole says has helped them stand out, especially in a post-COVID world where customer service seems an afterthought at many places. “People come for the food,” she says, “but they also come for that sense of home. That connection. I feel we need more of that connection to each other.”
The pandemic was a test for every restaurant, but Bartels Giant Burger was better positioned than most. Thanks to a strong take-out business and a loyal customer base, they were able to stay open without layoffs or government loans.
“We felt fortunate,” Carole says. “We knew there were others who needed help more than we did.”
That sense of humility and community has been a constant. Carole still sits in on job interviews, emphasizing friendliness and attitude. “We tell our staff to treat people the way they’d want to be treated,” she says. “It really is that simple.”
After 50 years, the Bartels have watched former employees become grandparents—and still stop by for a burger. “I might forget a name,” Carole says, “but I always remember a face.”
The nostalgia runs deep. The walls are lined with family photos and whimsical signs. There’s no sleek branding or corporate polish. Just fresh food, memories and attentive servers behind the counter.
“When people travel, they look for places like this,” Carole says. “Not just another chain. They want a place that feels like home.”
Carole and Dennis celebrated their 64th wedding anniversary in August. When asked if they still love the work, Carole doesn’t hesitate. “It’s been a labor of love from the very beginning,” she says. “Otherwise, we wouldn’t still be doing it.” ▶ continued on page 61
Bartels Giant Burger
75 Lake Blvd. East, Redding • (530) 243-7313
2311 North St., Anderson • (530) 365-5300
723 Walnut St., Red Bluff • (530) 736-2100 bartelsgiantburger.com
Al Olson loves culinary arts, adult beverages and hiking in the North State wilderness. You may find him soaking up the scenery at one of our area’s many state or national parks or sitting in a barstool sipping a cold locally brewed craft beer.
Would you like some help organizing your overstuffed garage? Is there a “dumping zone” in your home that collects every miscellaneous object? The gals at Sorted are here to help you clear your overcrowded space! They have an unmatched ability to transform a space within a few hours, bringing shalom (peace) to your mind and your household. Check out their social media to see their amazing work, and give them a call today!
Protecting your Peace of Mind
For Jennifer Lindstrand, providing services to her clients is less like maintaining a book of business and more like helping family members. She discovered over her 17 years in the health insurance industry that assisting clients truly sparks joy. This is why Jennifer opened her own agency; and why she will always return your calls! Jennifer looks forward to welcoming even more “family” joy this year!
3400 Bechelli Lane, Suite B, Redding 530.255.2109 phone / 530.255.6800 text lindinsure.com jennifer@lindinsure.com
Lindstrand Insurance Agency, Inc.
Lind_Insure
Locally owned and operated, Gaia Hotel and Spa is a true oasis along the Sacramento River. Enjoy peaceful rooms, private bungalows, a koi pond, outdoor heated pool and hot tub, onsite sauna and spa, plus exceptional dining at The Woodside Grill. Whether traveling through, gathering with family, hosting an event or seeking a rejuvenating staycation, Gaia offers more than a hotel—it’s an experience.
Teamwork is Dreamwork
Ellislaine is not your average marketing agency. They are a family of creatives and problem-solvers who love helping businesses grow. They craft bold branding, custom websites, captivating videos, engaging social media, and ads that drive results. They believe marketing should feel collaborative, not complicated. That’s why they work alongside you, making sure you feel supported and inspired. Ready to grow? Visit ellislaine.com to learn more.
1766 California St.
530.395.2310
ellislaine.com
@ellislainemarketing
The North State’s Indoor Family Fun Destination
Rare Air Trampoline Park is family-owned with over 23,000 square feet of indoor fun. Enjoy trampolines, dodgeball, ninja courses, climbing walls, and more. Their arcade features the latest games, including VR coasters, plus a full snack bar. We’re Northern California’s premier birthday party destination, dedicated to serving your family with unforgettable fun!
Grind Fire Defense is a locally rooted, veteran and woman-owned company specializing in defensible space, vegetation removal, and tree services. This team doesn’t just check boxes—they walk properties, spot risks others miss, and do the work with grit and integrity. It’s more than a service—it’s their mission to protect what matters most. Trust the crew that lives here, cares deeply and clears with purpose.
grindfiredefense.com
Office: 530.999.2035
Cell: 530.564.1039
CSLB #1136476 / LTO B013149 / QAL #46261
rareairredding / rareairchico
How Do You Pronounce It?
For decades, it’s been one of the mysteries of Redding: How in the heck do you pronounce the name of the burger place on Lake Boulevard? Is it BAR-tuhlz or bar-TELZ?
Friends have debated the issue over a burger and fries. Some people just avoid it and just call it Giant Burger.
So, the answer is …
Drum roll …
“Well, it’s really both,” says Dennis Bartel, the owner of the Bartels Giant Burger for all 50 years. “Either way is actually correct.”
Here’s the simple explanation: “When we lived in Nebraska, our family name was pronounced BARtuhlz. It’s a Germanic surname,” Dennis says. “When we moved to California, my older brother, Don, was already out here and he had decided to go with bar-TELZ. So we did the same.”
BAR-tuhlz or bar-TELZ? It doesn’t matter to the Bartels. Just as long as you visit Giant Burger and enjoy the homestyle food and the nostalgic ambiance.•
Don and Julia Ellis welcome you to Strawhouse, the “little Oasis” off Highway 299! If you are traveling between Redding and the coast, this is a must stop in your journey! As a destination, stay a while in their very comfortably appointed RV Park or cottages along the beautiful Trinity River. Strawhouse is always a great choice for weddings, birthdays, family reunions and other special events!
Generations of Quality
Nor Cal Granite and Tile, founded in 2004 by brothers Jayson and Chris Burris, is a family-owned business proudly serving Northern California. With next-generation leaders Rylie Burris-Murphy and Cole Burris, over 50 years of collective experience, and advanced CNC Router and Robotic Saw Jet technology, they provide flawless fabrication, expert tile installation, design services and timeless craftsmanship for every project.
Family Matters
Wendy Douglas Insurance is a family affair. She and her daughter combined have more than 40 years of insurance experience. They believe that family matters and that what they do is personal, and that you should be treated like family. Come join their family and they’ll get your insurance needs covered, as they should be.
next generation
REDDING RANCHERIA BUILDS LEGACY OF FEMALE LEADERSHIP
n the 1970s, workers at Labyris Bookstore in New York City coined the phrase “The Future is Female.” Around the same time on the other side of the country, the Inter-Tribal Council of California had begun challenging the government’s termination of a number of tribes, including the Redding Rancheria. Parallel to the birth of the feminist movement, so too eventually came the reinstatement of rights to Indigenous populations. When the Redding Rancheria formally adopted its Constitution in 1987, Barbara Murphy became the Tribe’s first chief executive officer. In 2004, Tracy Edwards took the helm. And, as part of a leadership team with Chief Operating Officer Stacey Carman and Chief Financial Officer Tamra Olson, these three women have led Rancheria operations for well over two decades. They have worked and raised families within the walls of the Rancheria offices on Redding Rancheria Road – and now a new generation of women is entering leadership positions within the Tribe and paving a way forward. At the Redding Rancheria, the past, the present, and most certainly the future is fundamentally female. ▶ continued on page 67
“I love the people that I work with. It is a joy to come to work,” says Hayward. “ I’m contributing to the future of the Tribe and that feels good because the Tribe has given me every single thing that I have in my life. I chose to stay because I love my people, and I want to be there with my people.”
Keeping
Fashion Meets Family
For 47 years, 5th Street Clothing has been more than just a boutique — it’s been a reflection of Carol Munson’s love for helping women feel confident and beautiful. What began as her dream soon became a family passion, as her daughter Jennie joined her in the business. Together, Carol and Jennie bring warmth, style, and a personal touch to every shopping experience. Their thoughtfully chosen collections celebrate women of all ages and sizes, reminding us that fashion is about more than clothing — it’s about connection, confidence, and community.
You On the Water
As a family-owned business, Vic’s takes pride in honest work, quality repairs, and dependable service. For more than 26 years, Vic’s has been dedicated to keeping boaters and their families on the water year-round, proudly serving the Redding community with trusted expertise and care.
328 Broadway, Downtown Chico
5thstreetclothingco.com
@5thstreetclothingco
At McNeil Construction, they specialize in transforming ordinary concrete into durable, polished surfaces that add style and sophistication to your space. Whether you’re looking for a brilliant finish on your floors or a solid foundation for your next project, they bring the same level of precision, craftsmanship, and care to every job. Their team is committed to providing solutions that last—built for clients who value quality, integrity, longevity and attention to detail. Bring Out the Best in Your Concrete
“I was glad that I had a place. And I felt like I was welcomed with open arms. You get to bring that knowledge back and help us where we need it.”
“My aunt (Carman) has been one of the most influential people in my life,” says Dani Hayward, senior director of human resources. “It’s been amazing that I’ve gotten to see her work and Tracy’s work up close and personal and learn how they make decisions. They create a very healthy environment where I feel I can ask all these questions.”
Having these accessible role models has been pivotal to her growth, says Hayward. After earning a bachelor’s degree in geography and environmental studies from UCLA, Hayward began her career at the Rancheria and worked her way up to become the director of human resources. With more than 700 employees combined between the Tribal Offices and Win-River Casino, the Redding Rancheria is one of the largest employers in Shasta County.
“I love the people that I work with. It is a joy to come to work,” says Hayward. “I’m contributing to the future of the Tribe and that feels good because the Tribe has given me every single thing that I have in my life. I chose to stay because I love my people, and I want to be there with my people.”
This sentiment is also echoed by Miranda Edwards Favorite, senior director of organizational communications, who earned a bachelor’s degree in psychology from Stanford University and a master’s degree from San Francisco State University before returning to Redding to work for the Rancheria.
“When the time was right, the time was right and it felt like the right time to come back and be in the Tribal community,” says Favorite. “I was glad that I had a place. And I felt like I was welcomed with open arms. You get to bring that knowledge back and help us where we need it.”
For both women, a childhood rooted in proximity and exposure to the Tribal Offices made the transition into working for the Tribe as adults much easier.
“The office that I’m in now actually was my mom’s office,” says Favorite, the daughter of CEO Tracy Edwards. “I have pictures of when I was a kid sitting at my mom’s desk typing on her computer when she worked there. Kids in the office is kind of just how it is. It’s very familiar. I was that kid. That was the norm for me.”
Creating an environment that fosters a healthy work-life balance has been a through line of the Rancheria’s female leadership for a long time, Favorite says.
“The healthy work-life balance and the flexibility is because our three executives were working moms and they understand what it’s like to have a family and be very dedicated to your work and the tension that comes with that,” Favorite says. ▶
continued on page 69
Where Home Feels
Real Estate Advisor
“They’re
the torch and
us with that. It’s not always a smooth or easy transition, but that’s always their goal – to leave it better than when they came and I want to do that as well.”
Both Hayward and Favorite attribute their growth in leadership roles to a philosophy of encouragement rather than rites of passage from Edwards, Carman and Olson, the mindset being that each generation has an easier time than that of their predecessor. It’s something both Hayward and Favorite hope to pass on in their own ways.
“My daughter dances in the Pow Wow,” says Hayward. “I want to make my kids aware of their culture and how important it is, and this is our way of life. Bringing them to it will make them a part of it more and who they are as people. I want my daughter to be a doctor for the Tribe one day.”
“I hope that people like Dani and I can pick up where they left off and keep pushing the envelope as far as we can in our capacity,” says Favorite. “They’re building us up to pass the torch and trust us with that. It’s not always a smooth or easy transition, but that’s always their goal – to leave it better than when they came and I want to do that as well.” •
Jill Tydor is a Baton Rouge, Louisiana native who has chosen the North State as her home. She is a writer and marketer with an MFA from California College of the Arts. Jill enjoys traveling, sunny days, and spicy food.
Authority Property Management is a proud family-run business. Our son, Tyler Tucker, along with two of our other children, Jace Robertson and Chelsea Robertson, work alongside us every day. We feel truly blessed to have all four of our children and seven grandchildren living nearby in Redding, CA. Working with family allows us to bring a personal touch to everything we do. We strive to make every client feel like a valued part of our extended family because, to us, relationships matter just as much as results.
2663 Victor Ave. (530) 410-6085 authoritypm.com
CANCER SCREENING? 1. Age 50-80 Years 2. Currently a smoker or have quit 3. Have smoked at least a pack of cigarettes a day for 20+ years. If all answers are yes, patient is eligible. Call our Lung Nodule Clinic Today to learn more. Phone (530) 244-8269 Lung cancer is the leading single cancer killer in the USA. The Lung Nodule Screening Program provides patients with an opportunity to screen for pre-cancerous lung nodules, before they progress into lung cancer.
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World Class Eats
ORTEGA’S RESTAURANT IN PALO CEDRO
ave you ever had a bite of food so divine you were instantly rendered silent as your eyes slowly closed in a moment of savory bliss? A good meal has the power to transport us to a happy, serene beautiful place in a single bite. Preparing a delicious meal isn’t just about seasoning with a deft hand, having the freshest ingredients, expert-level timing or an eye for aesthetic plating. A few secret ingredients can take a meal from decent to next-level, and Ortega’s Mexican Restaurant in Palo Cedro adds them to every plate that leaves the kitchen. Those ingredients are passion, tradition and love.
Since 2008, Jacinto Miranda and Eduwiges Ortega, along with their children, Emanuel, Adilene and Rosa, have been proudly serving their community with great service, amazing food and a welcoming atmosphere that keeps customers coming back again and again. The restaurant is truly family-powered, and each member has their dedicated role in making Ortega’s a continued success.
Jacinto oversees the kitchen, prepares signature dishes and ensures every recipe stays authentic to the family’s tradition. Eduwiges focuses on quality control, presentation and making sure every guest leaves with a smile. Emanuel manages daily operations from opening to closing, customer service and ensures the front and back of the house run smoothly. Adilene and Rosa, during school breaks and other free time, assist wherever they are needed, whether it’s helping with service, preparing food or supporting events.
Eduwiges, originally from Jalisco, Mexico, and Jacinto, originally from Oaxaca, Mexico, blend flavors and traditions to ensure every menu item is an homage to their respective hometowns. Their knack for making unforgettable meals has been passed down through generations. Many of the recipes that captivate taste buds at Ortega’s come from their parents’ and grandparents’ kitchens. Those recipes have been refined over time but always remain true to their original flavors.
“I grew up in the kitchen, surrounded by family, preparing meals together. Cooking became a passion early in life because it was a way to care for others, share tradition and keep our culture alive,” says Eduwiges. “Cooking has always been about more than food.”
“I’ve always enjoyed what we do in the restaurant because of what it has taught me – the lessons I learned working in diner-style kitchens shaped the way I cook, manage a kitchen and serve people today,” says Jacinto. ▶
continued on page 74
“I grew up in the kitchen, surrounded by family, preparing meals together. Cooking became a passion early in life because it was a way to care for others, share tradition and keep our culture alive,” says Eduwiges. “Cooking has always been about more than food.”
While you could point to any menu item at Ortega’s and land on something fantastic, the chile relleno and enchilada, served with rice, beans, a bit of lettuce and crema, remains a crowd favorite, even after 17 years. “It’s like a taste of our history,” they say.
When it comes to the family’s personal favorite dish, it’s a tie between Eduwiges’ pork chile verde and her beef birria.
No matter what menu item they’re plating up, the Ortega Family goes the extra mile to make sure everyone feels at home at the restaurant. On busy evenings, tables are filled with families and couples. Lunch hour is busy with orders from people who know that a good meal from Ortega’s can help them get through even the toughest workday. The restaurant with the vibrant peach-colored walls has been the backdrop of many special moments for community members over the years.
“The happiest moments are when we see customers celebrating milestones here –birthdays, graduations, anniversaries – and knowing our food and hospitality became part of those memories and part of their story,” says the Ortega family.
While they are focused on making their current location the best that it can be, they dream of expanding in the future, whether through another location, a food truck or new catering offerings.
One of the greatest challenges is “balancing the demands of running a busy restaurant and making time for family, but we’ve learned that both are worth giving our all to.”
“Our restaurant is more than a place to eat,” says the Ortega family. “It’s where traditions are kept alive, and where everyone is welcome like family. We’re honored to be part of such a supportive community.”•
Kimberly N. Bonéy, proud wife and mom, is a freelance writer, designer, up-cycler and owner of Herstory Vintage. When she’s not working, she
joyfully wielding jewelry-making tools and paintbrushes in her studio. Antique shops, vintage boutiques, craft stores and bead shops
place.
Pack Leader Dog Training
Postive and permanent, Redding Pack Leader Dog Training, led by Steven James, offers personalized at-home training services using a balanced approach. Specializing in building calm, confident dogs, Steve helps create a more harmonious relationship between pets and their owners. His methods empower owners to enjoy a well-behaved, happy dog, making everyday life more enjoyable for the whole family.
Family owned and operated by Carlos and Alicia Pizano for more than 30 years, Pizza Factory has been the heart of hometown, Shasta Lake and now Redding. Embracing the essence of community, hard work and family-friendly dining, their delicious pizzas are always hand-tossed with in-house made dough, signature pizza sauce and 100% fresh mozzarella cheese. Served hot from our family to yours. Enjoy!
For 38 years, Red Bluff Aquarium and Pets has been the go-to place for all critters big and small carrying fun toys, snacks, treats and a staff that really knows its stuff! There is an outdoor Pet Wash Station that is open 24/7, saving time and mess at home. They also offer help with exotic birds. And they offer the best family-friendly environment you will find!
S.
Mike Green
Valerie Ing
Ailsa Chang
Catie
Photos courtesy of Trina Fey
Retro Rebel
TRINA FEY BRINGS CREATIVITY TO EVERY STAGE
rina Fey (pronounced Fee) is not your typical Cottonwood cowgirl. Though she went to West Valley High School and still lives in the North State, she is probably more well known in Los Angeles, New York City or London than she is locally. She’s a pinup girl (in the Betty Grable style), a barrel racer, motocross rider, professional photographer, model, magazine cover girl, costume designer and hair stylist. She also owns and operates the All Pinned Up hair salon in Redding. Professionally, she goes by the name of Miss Jenna Purrs.
Trina’s family moved to Cottonwood from Sacramento when she was in fifth grade. In Cottonwood, her neighbors were horse people and she spent every spare moment at their arena with the horses. In eighth grade, Trina was scouted by Genevieve and Cecil Rouse and she began showing their quarter pony. By high school, she was being paid to compete in District 1. Luck smiled on Trina during high school when West Valley High School teacher Tom Vasquez mentored her in business and taught her to move through the world with confidence—skills that still serve her well.
Meeting Trina, you get the sense that she’s doing 10 different things at the same time. With her hair pulled back and glasses resting like a tiara on top of her head, she never stops moving. She uses words the way a masseuse uses their hands, guiding the conversation along, adding a healthy dose of laughter along the way.
Trina began competing in motocross before they separated the categories between men and women. Motocross involves not only racing against other motorcyclists, but riding off-road at high speeds down gravel and mud trails. “It was very exciting, but when I won, the men/boys did not think that was cool,” she says. When the American Motorcyclist Association created a women’s league, she was on the first team.
Trina began modeling for S.F. Magazine in 2011, and she then became the first spokesmodel for Retro Lovely Pinup Magazine. Retro was formerly a print magazine and is now the largest online pinup magazine in the world, boasting 2.1 million followers. She has a spokesperson in the United Kingdom and says the British love American pinup girls. Trina is very proud of the fact that when she ▶ continued on page 80
“As a profession, it’s a lot of work,” she says. “You can’t just take a photo. There’s a lot of marketing involved. It involves travel as a volunteer at events like car shows, doing poster signings, staffing a booth selling sunglasses...”
first appeared on the printed cover of Retro Lovely, that issue sold 10,000 copies. When she began modeling, local photographer T.A. Schmidt did her photo shoots. After he retired, she picked up the camera. She creates her photo backdrops, makes her costumes and does her own setup and shots.
When setting up a photo shoot, there’s a lot to consider. Trina is 5-foot-3, which is not very tall for a model, so she designs her outfits and sets up the photo shoot to make her look taller. It’s a fine line between a natural or artistic look and cheesy, or worse. It’s all very theatrical. Like being in a play, Trina goes into character. Whether it’s 1940s retro, a cowgirl draped over a hot rod, or painting her entire body green for Halloween, she is in that moment and at the same time managing every aspect of the set design, costumes and photography. This is where being able to do 10 things at a time pays off.
She doesn’t believe she’ll ever be done learning or growing, but rather she’s continually evolving, adding, “Don’t be easy to define. Let them wonder about you.”
Dressing up for Halloween is a no-brainer for Trina. It’s her favorite time of the year. She dresses in a different costume each day of the week of Halloween. Her hair salon customers love coming by just to see what she’s wearing. She did one Halloween photo shoot at an old cemetery in Chico and another in an antique shop in Redding. Her photo shoots range from Mad Max themes
to working with pets; she even had a live boa constrictor wrapped around her neck and shoulders for one photo shoot. But her favorite is going back to her roots and photographing herself as a cowgirl. She’s most comfortable wearing a cowboy hat.
Part of the creative process is to always be on the lookout for items that will work in a photo shoot. Shopping for things that are visually striking, or retro, or just speak to her is all part of the adventure.
“As a profession, it’s a lot of work,” she says. “You can’t just take a photo. There’s a lot of marketing involved. It involves travel as a volunteer at events like car shows, doing poster signings, staffing a booth selling sunglasses, parasols, things for the ladies, all being dressed as a pinup girl.” She says her biggest fans are other women, and she believes in women who support other women. “Building each other up is the way it should be,” she says.
At her hair salon, she says every client is different and every two to three hours she gets to make someone look beautiful. “As an artist, it’s instant gratification,” she says. •
Writers use words to open doors to a bigger world, and Bruce Greenberg is honored by the trust people place in him to share their stories. Through his writing, he invites readers to explore the layers of diversity and experience that make our community unique.
ctober weekends are made for slowing down—cooler mornings, a break from school-week routines, getting ready for Halloween festivities. For parents looking to spend time with their kids in a way that doesn’t involve screens or sugar overload, this easy, no-bake recipe offers just the right mix of fun and teamwork.
These Monster Energy Balls come together in 10 minutes, require no oven time, and offer kids a hands-on role in every step. They’re sweet, a little sticky and endlessly customizable—ideal for a casual weekend kitchen project or a quick and easy after-dinner dessert.
Simple Ingredients, Big Kid Appeal The base recipe calls for just six ingredients: quick oats, peanut butter, honey, vanilla, mini chocolate chips, and mini candy-coated chocolate pieces. Everything gets stirred together in one bowl. From there, kids can help roll the mixture into snack-sized balls and line them up on a parchment-covered tray.
The hardest part is waiting the 30 minutes for the bites to chill in the fridge.
Because the recipe doesn’t involve heat, sharp tools or complicated appliances, it’s a good recipe for young children beginning to learn basic kitchen skills. Toddlers can help measuring, pouring and stirring; older kids can take the lead on scooping and shaping. Or vice versa. It’s a short project that fits within a child’s attention span and doesn’t leave parents with a pile of dishes.
Make It Your Own The real fun comes in customizing the mix-ins. You can easily swap in other ingredients based on what’s in your pantry, or to suit a Halloween theme.
Crushed Oreo cookies give them a “graveyard” vibe, especially with a candy eye pressed into the top. Halloween sprinkles or colored sugar can add a festive touch, and coconut flakes (plain or dyed orange or purple) add both texture and color.
If you’re looking for a less-sweet version, you can reduce the honey slightly or sub in chopped nuts or raisins for part of the candy. Some families opt for sunflower seed butter in place of peanut butter for allergy-safe versions.
Perfect for Parties—or School Lunches Once chilled, the bites hold their shape well and travel easily, making them a good option for school snacks, lunchboxes or Halloween gatherings. They’re shelfstable for a few hours but best stored in the fridge for longer keeping. Because the yield is small (about 16 bites), this recipe is manageable and doesn’t result in a mountain of leftovers. It’s easy to double or triple the recipe for bigger households or to prep a few extra for neighbors or a party.
A Hands-On Fall Tradition October tends to fill up quickly with school events, sports events and pumpkin patch visits. Taking even 30 minutes to do something hands-on together in the kitchen is a small but meaningful way to slow the pace. These bites may not be complicated, but that’s the point: simple ingredients, no baking and a result that disappears just as quickly as it was made. •
Al Olson loves culinary arts, adult beverages and hiking in the North State wilderness. You may find him soaking up the scenery at one of our area’s many state or national parks or sitting in a barstool sipping a cold locally brewed craft beer.
• 1½ cups quick oats
• ½ cup creamy peanut butter
• ⅓ cup honey
• ¼ cup mini candy-coated chocolate pieces
• ¼ cup mini chocolate chips
• ½ tsp. vanilla
directions ingredients
Step 1: In a large bowl, combine all of the ingredients. Stir until the honey and peanut butter are mixed well into the other ingredients.
Step 2: Using a large spoon or portion scoop, measure a small amount of the dough and roll it into a ball shape, about 1½ to 2 inches in size.
Step 3: Shape it into a ball and place on a cookie sheet lined with parchment paper. Repeat the process until the dough is gone. (There should be about 16.)
Step 4: Chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes. Place in a sealed container until ready to eat.
Frank Kratofil enjoys spending time with his family, friends and patients and he enjoys time in the outdoors. As a young man, Frank was legally blind. Two successful corneal transplants encouraged him to photograph the magic in nature... beautiful colors and the delicate balance of nature, animals and humans. Find him on Instagram @frankkratofil
This moist Pumpkin Bread is the perfect blend of sweet spices and tender pumpkin flavor—soft, comforting and ideal for fall (or any time you crave cozy baked goods). It’s easy to make, uses simple ingredients you probably already have on hand and fills your kitchen with the warm aroma of cinnamon and nutmeg. Enjoy it as a breakfast treat, snack or dessert.
INGREDIENTS
• 1¾ cups (220 g) all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp. baking soda
• ½ tsp. baking powder
• ½ tsp. salt
• 1 tsp. ground cinnamon
• ½ tsp. ground nutmeg
• ¼ tsp. ground cloves (optional)
• ¼ tsp. ground ginger (optional)
• 1 cup (200 g) granulated sugar
• ½ cup (100 g) brown sugar, packed
• ½ cup melted butter
• 2 large eggs
• 1½ cups (340 g) canned pumpkin puree
• ¼ cup (60 ml) milk
• 1 tsp. vanilla extract
• ½ cup chopped nuts or chocolate chips (optional)
DIRECTIONS
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350 degrees. Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper.
Step 2: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves and ginger. Set aside.
Step 3: In a large bowl, whisk together sugar, brown sugar and oil. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in pumpkin puree, milk and vanilla extract until smooth.
Step 4: Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined. Don’t overmix. If using, fold in nuts or chocolate chips.
Step 5: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan. Bake for 55–65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Step 6: Let the bread cool in the pan for 10–15 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
Tips:
• You can use 2 teaspoons of pumpkin pie spice in place of the cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves and ginger.
• For extra moisture, brush the top with a little melted butter as soon as it comes out of the oven.
• Leftover bread can be stored wrapped tightly at room temperature for 3–4 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
local events
CALENDAR
OCTOBER 2025
FEATURED EVENTS
October 3
Performances:
October 10th through October 19th in the Shasta College Theatre
• Retired Employees’ Association of California, Vittles Restaurant, 2385 North St., 11am-1pm, www.rpea.com
October 4-5
• 70th Gem and Mineral Show, Shasta District Fairgrounds, 1890 Briggs St., 9am-5pm Saturday, 9am-4pm Sunday, www.shastagemandmineral.org
October 16-18
• Veteran Stand Down Event, Shasta District Fairgrounds, 1890 Briggs St., www.cityofshastalake.gov
October 25
• Food Truck or Treat, Anderson River Park Splash Pad parking lot, 2800 Rupert Road, 4-7pm, 5:30pm costume contest, www.facebook.com/AndersonCAParks
October 18
• 30th Annual Return of the Salmon Festival, Coleman National Fish Hatchery, 24411 Coleman Fish Hatchery Road, 9am-3pm, www.facebook.com/ events/971246811411386
October 25
• Back to Camp: A Fundraiser for Whiskeytown Environmental School, Shasta District Fairgrounds, 1890 Briggs St., 4pm, www.visitredding.com
October 29
• Stars of the Farm, Historic Hawes Farms, 6465 Deschutes Road, 4-8pm, www.historichawesfarm.com
October 30
• 7th Annual Cars and Pizza Trunk or Treat, Shasta Pizza, 1713 Bruce St., 5-7:30pm, www.facebook.com/ events/754268350338265
burney
October 5
• Burney Chamber Community Fall Festival, 20265 Tamarack Ave., 1-5pm, www.facebook.com/ events/1032164038840477
October 30
• Halloween Trunk of Treat, Pit River Health Service Behavioral Health and Admin Parking Lot, 36977 Park Ave., 4-6pm, www.facebook.com/ pitriverhealthservice
bieber
October 26
• Fall Harvest, Big Valley Elementary School, 90 First St., 1-4pm, www.facebook.com/burney.chamber
• ARTober fest Month Long Art Walk, Downtown Chico businesses, pick up a list of participating businesses and artists at the Downtown Welcome Center at 338 Broadway St., 10am-5pm Tues-Fri, 10am-2pm Sat, www.downtownchico.com
October 1, 8, 15, 22, 29
• Chico Wednesday Farmers Market, North Valley Plaza Mall parking lot, Pillsbury Road adjacent to Trader Joe’s, 7:30am-noon, www.chicofarmersmarket.com
October 4
• Pumpkin Splash, PV Pool, 2320 North Ave., 1-4pm, www.chicorec.gov
• Art & Wine Walk, Downtown Chico, 5-8pm, www.downtownchico.com
October 4, 11, 18, 25
• Chico Saturday Farmers Market, Downtown Chico municipal parking lot, 2nd and Wall streets, 7:30am-1pm, www.chicofarmersmarket.com
October 5, 12, 19, 26
• Chico Farmers Market, Meriam Park, Farmers Brewing Restaurant and Taproom parking lot, 9am-noon, www.chicofarmersmarket.com
October 10
• Masquerade with a Mission, 45 Vallombrosa Ave., 5:30-10pm, www.chicochamber.com
October 11
• Harvest Sidewalk Sale, Downtown Chico businesses, 10am-5pm, www.downtownchico.com
October 24
• Movies in the Park, DeGarmo Park, 3428 Esplanade, 5-9pm, www.chicorec.gov
October 25
• Trunk of Treat, Glen Oaks Memorial Park, 11115 Midway, noon-3pm, www.chicochamber.com
• Corning Tuesday Night Market Closing Night and the Annual Bed Races, Downtown Corning on Solano Street between 3rd and 6th Streets, 5-8pm, www.corningcachamber.org
• Home Tribe Education Con 2025, Redding Civic Auditorium, 700 Auditorium Way, 8am-5pm, www.hometribe.com
Monday, October 6, 2025 at 8 AM; Repeats Saturday, October 11, 2025 at 11 AM:
Stephanie Bridgett, Shasta County District Attorney
Monday, October 1, 2025 at 8 AM; Repeats Saturday, October 18, 2025 at 11 AM:
Alex Houston, Shasta County District Attorney, Investigations
Monday, October 20, 2025 at 8 AM; Repeats Saturday, October 25, 2025 at 11 AM:
Tim Wiley, Domestic Violence and Strangulation
Shasta County District Attorney Investigator
Monday, October 27, 2025 at 8 AM; Repeats Saturday November 1 , 2025 at 11 AM:
Gary Hughes, Fraud, Shasta County District Attorney Investigator
Pink 5K Walk/Run Oct. 4th, 2025
Pink Car Show Oct. 12th, 2025
Pink Calendar Handout Oct. 16th, 2025
Pink Sundial Event Oct. 16th, 2025
EARLY DETECTION SAVES LIVES We believe cost should never stand in the way of diagnostic testing. Our Breast Cancer Detection Fund can provide financial assistance. Apply today!
Norcal Think Pink .org
Retired Public Employees’ Association of California
We are a non-profit association of retirees and active employees who are members of the California Public Retirement System (CalPERS).
• Representing all public employees - classified schools, public agencies, and state.
• The liaison between retirees and CalPERS.
• A mutual protective association for all beneficiaries of CalPERS
• Fighting to maintain our current pension and health care benefits and improve these benefits every year.
• Local chapters in your area - attend meetings to stay informed and learn from interesting speakers.
• The Fall into Jazz Festival, Whistle Stop Park, 1470 Market St., 10:30am-7pm, www.visitredding.com
October
• Redding Haunted House at the Monolith, Sheraton Redding Hotel, 820 Sundial Bridge Drive, 7-9:30pm, www.reddinghauntedhouse.org
shasta lake
October 6-29
• Yoga, Larry J. Farr Community Center, 4499 Main St., 5:30-6:30pm, www.enjoylocalevents.com
October 11
• Friends of Chappie Fall Crawl, Shasta Chappie OHV Area, Coram Road, 7am-2pm, www.friendsofchappie.org/ fall-crawl
October 19
• Shasta Lake Halloween Carnival, Clair Engle Park, noon-9pm, www.shastacommunityevents.com
October 31
• Shasta Lake Trunk of Treat, Shasta Lake City Hall Parking Lot, 4477 Main St., 6-8pm, www.shastadamboree.org/trunk-or-treat
shingletown
October 4
• Shingletown Fall Festival, Shingletown Library, 7074 Wilson Hill Road, 10am-5pm, www.facebook.com/ events/563859176658970
weaverville
October 1, 8, 15
• Farmers Market, Meadows of the Highland Art Center, 691 Main St., 4-7pm, www.weavervillefarmersmarket.org
October 4
• First Saturdays and Art Walk, Downtown Weaverville, 5-8pm, www.trinitycountyarts.org/art-walk.html
SCAN THIS TO GO DIRECTLY TO OUR EVENTS CALENDAR ONLINE GO DIRECTLY TO OUR INSTAGRAM PAGE GO DIRECTLY TO OUR FACEBOOK PAGE
HOW TO GET YOUR EVENT ON THIS CALENDAR
If you’d like your event to be listed in this section of Enjoy magazine, please post it on our website www.enjoylocalevents.com by the 1st of the month— one month prior to the next magazine issue. For example, a May event will need to be posted by April 1.
If you’d like your event to be listed in this section of Enjoy magazine, please post it on our website www.enjoylocalevents.com by the 1st of the month— one month prior to the next magazine issue. For example, a May event will need to be posted by April 1.
WHAT IS THE MISSION OF THINK PINK?
Nor-Cal Think Pink boosts awareness of breast cancer and enhances early detection through community collaboration. Financial barriers should never prevent someone from getting life-saving diagnostic testing. That’s why our Breast Cancer Detection Fund provides support for those who are uninsured, underinsured or facing financial hardship.
givingback
Q&A WITH LORI MEADOWS FROM NORCAL THINK PINK
HOW MANY THINK PINK BAGS DO YOU DISTRIBUTE EACH YEAR? The campaign began with 500 free bags handed out to the public. Today, up to 22,000 Think Pink bags and breast cancer awareness calendars are distributed to more than 30 surrounding communities each year on Think Pink Day.
WHO ASSEMBLES THE BAGS? Community volunteers come together each year for our cherished bag stuffing event. Over the course of a week, we host hundreds of volunteers ranging in age from high schoolers on up. Volunteers look forward to coming back year after year.
WHERE CAN PEOPLE GET A THINK PINK BAG THIS YEAR? Bags will be distributed at our 29th annual calendar giveaway on Think Pink Day, October
16, 2025. We will be at Tri-Counties Bank, 1250 Hilltop Drive, from 6–9 am. Bags will also be available that evening at the Pink Sundial Resource Fair from 5–8 pm. Following that, they will be at the Mt. Shasta Mall center court October 17–19 during mall hours. Businesses or agencies needing 25 or more can reserve them online and pick them up Wednesday, October 15.
HOW DO YOU KEEP BREAST CANCER AWARENESS FRESH AND RELEVANT? We spread awareness by evolving and adding new community events and formats to share information. This year we added The Think Pink Golf Classic. In 2023, we added the Think Pink Car Show. We also continue with our 5K Walk/Run and the Pink Sundial Resource Fair. We want to educate the community that breast cancer does not discriminate. Men and women of all ages can be affected, and early detection saves lives.
HOW FAR HAS THE CAMPAIGN’S REACH GROWN BEYOND REDDING? Nor-Cal Think Pink proudly shares our calendars and bags throughout Northern California, including Shasta, Siskiyou, Modoc, Plumas, Tehama and Trinity counties.
What’s your favorite part of Think Pink Day?
Watching the love and support our community pours into those battling breast cancer and our courageous survivors. That flows into supporting Nor-Cal Think Pink and our mission.
WHAT DO YOU WISH MORE PEOPLE UNDERSTOOD ABOUT BREAST CANCER?
Breast cancer is the most common cancer in women in the United States (except for skin cancers) and the second leading cause of cancer death in women. There is a 1 in 8 chance a woman will develop breast cancer. Early detection is the best defense and significantly improves survival rates. According to the American Cancer Society, the five-year survival rate for breast cancer detected at the localized stage—meaning it hasn’t spread beyond the breast—is over 99 percent. This underscores the importance of regular screenings, such as mammograms, especially for women aged 40 and older.
HOW CAN SOMEONE NEW GET INVOLVED?
Nor-Cal Think Pink holds monthly meetings open to all on the third Thursday of the month between April and September. You can also reach out at info@ norcalthinkpink.com or (530) 921-9212, or visit www. norcalthinkpink.com. Volunteer opportunities range from helping distribute posters to chairing a new event.
nspiring journey
I enrolled at Shasta College after graduating from high school at 16. My original goal was to become a nurse, but I was intimidated by the science courses, which proved to be as challenging as I had anticipated!
As a result, I briefly strayed from my intended path. I ended up earning an Associate of Arts degree in Business and Communication. I even explored automotive technology courses, but I found out I was pregnant during my fourth semester.
That life-changing moment reignited my determination to pursue nursing again. It motivated me to take those challenging science courses to provide us with a great future. To further complicate things, throughout my pregnancy and coursework, I also faced the immense hardship of homelessness up until just one month before giving birth.
Continuing my education as a single mother was one of the hardest things I’ve ever done. As I worked toward my nursing goal, life challenged and shaped me. Before beginning the two-year nursing program, I had my second daughter, and I started the program when she was just three months old. Balancing the demands of nursing school with motherhood
was incredibly difficult, but it only strengthened my resilience and determination.
I want to extend my heartfelt gratitude to Dr. Croes for his unwavering support. His charisma and dedication as a professor have been truly inspiring. I would also like to thank Bob DePaul for his invaluable counseling sessions and for being an honest, genuine human who has provided guidance and encouragement throughout my journey.
I chose Shasta College because it was both local and affordable. It gave me the opportunities and support I needed to reach my goals!
