Summer 2014

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a quarterly resource celebrating family life in butte county Summer 2014 May - June - July

Growing Up Chico’s

Summer Bucket List Conserving The Water

Our Most Precious Resource

New Inside!

Growing Up Paradise & Growing Up Oroville

Be The Change!

Try These Fun, Easy, Sustainable Family Projects

Get Active: Golfing with Kids

...and as always our ENORMOUS calendar of events!

Welcome to summer!

I am so excited about summer and about this summer issue of Growing Up Chico Magazine! Summer is a fun time to play and spend time with those you love. Take advantage of this time to enjoy the warm weather and the outdoors. If the hotter weather drives you inside, there are many great indoor activities you can enjoy with your family. We have proudly put together a Summer Bucket List of activities you can check off this season. Growing Up Chico challenges you to check off as many activities as you can.

Feel free to write about how many you checked off and share your experiences with us so that we may publish your story in a future issue.

There are many other new things in this issue! We are happy to announce that we are adding two new installments to the Growing Up Chico Magazine.

Join us in welcoming, Growing Up Paradise and Growing Up Oroville! Please spread the word and encourage anyone with a story to tell, about growing up in these areas, to send their articles to us and we may publish them in the new sections. Also, if you know of anyone who may want to advertise in the magazine, direct them to www.growingupchico.com for information on advertising, or contact our ad representative. We hope you enjoy learning about these communities, as they are wonderful parts of our “village.”

Aside from the Bucket List and the new additions to the magazine, in this issue we have staycation activities and recipes you can do with your kids, information on the latest of the Chico Performances, ideas for sustainable projects you can start, and much more! If you want to get outside, enjoy our articles on golfing with kids and the many things you can do at Lake Oroville. Finally, we have the most extensive list of summer camps around! Have your little camper(s) pick out a favorite and sign up early, as space is usually limited.

I would like to thank the advertisers and contributors for their support in making Growing Up Chico possible. Please see the advertiser’s directory and visit the many supporters as a way of thanks. We are so excited about this issue and we hope you enjoy it-AND enjoy your summer!

Marne Larsen Publisher

Rachele Thompson Need advertising? Call Rachele, Growing Up Chico’s own Marketing Manager! When Rachele is not working, she dedicates most of her time raising her 6 year old boy/girl twins. She and her husband Tim, a local middle school teacher, are both CSUC Alumni and enjoy supporting their community through their work. They love to travel, enjoy the outdoors, and love to spend time with their family and friends.

DeAnna Holman DeAnna is a former teacher and mother of three who is working as a freelance writer, editor, and graphic artist. She currently does the layouts and assists in editing Growing Up Chico! She obtained her BS from USC and her teaching credential from CSUC, Chico. DeAnna is also a breast cancer survivor who will be writing about her experiences. She lives on an almond orchard in Durham with her husband, kids, dogs and cats.

Sally Hedley Sally is a Chico native who graduated from Chico State with a BA and three teaching credentials (multiple subject, art, and science).

She is in her fourth year of teaching and is loving every minute of it. She is the author of California Plant Science for Kids and other curriculum.

Amy Behlke Amy is a writer, mother of two, and a wife. Amy holds a BA Degree in Liberal Studies and a California Teaching Credential from CSU, Chico. She currently works full time teaching 6th grade and writes grants.

Nani Teves Nani works for Butte Environmental Council on water issues.

To get more information about upcoming water conservation workshops, visit www.becnet.org.

Amanda Lennon Amanda is a senior, majoring in Journalism with a concentration in Public Relations at Chico State University.

After graduation, hopes to also complete a minor in Photographic Studies. She plans to return to the Bay Area after graduation and although her career goals are not quite set, she is interested in pursuing a public relations career in professional sports.

Robin Williams Robin has been a credentialed teacher since 1994 and has taught a variety of ages from toddlers thru adulthood. She lives in Chico with her husband and two children. Her current passion is running her home based preschool: Dragonfly Playschool. For information about her preschool or summer camps for young children, visit: www.dragonflyplayschool.com.

On The Cover: The Cooper Family: Tim, Angelique, Kabrey and Bryn, enjoying the links at Canyon Oaks. Tim landed in Chico towards the end of his professional baseball career to join the Chico Heat Organization. Upon retiring from baseball in 2001, Tim stayed in Chico and started a new career in Mortgage Banking and is now the Branch Manager for BANC Home Loans in Chico.

Cover Photo By: Amy Evans Photography specializes in custom portrait photography for children, seniors, families, and events, as well as offers portrait parties! Visit her website at www.amyevansphotography.com

894-6800 Marne Larsen-Publisher (530) 518-6154 marne@growingupchico.com Darci Crossin-Graphic Design DeAnna Holman-Design/Editor Terry Givens-Graphic Design For Advertising Information, Contact: Rachele Thompson-Marketing Manager (530) 519-0320 rachele@growingupchico.com Advertising Deadline: To advertise in our upcoming Fall Issue, please contact us by June 30th.

Article and Photo Submission Deadline: Please submit family-friendly and seasonally appropriate photos and informative articles by June 20th.

Growing Up Chico Magazine is published quarterly and available free online, as well as in print at 300 family-friendly locations throughout Butte County. www.growingupchico.com Copyright Š 2014 by Growing Up Chico Magazine. Reproductions without permission are prohibited. Articles and advertisements found in Growing Up Chico Magazine do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the management.

2477 Forest Ave Lic#045404701, 045404702

Come by for a tour!

In Chico For ages 2-12

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Summertime Fun 10

Growing Up Chico’s Summer Bucket List

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Summer Recipes

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Golfing with Kids

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Summer Arts and Games

Summer Reading Program

Water Conservation: Our Best Bet

Family Time 20

Butte County 211

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Chico Performances: Aladdin, Jr.

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An Exclusive List of the Best Summer Camps!

Summer Camps

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Growing Up Greener 24

Be the Change: Sustainable Projects

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The Boys and Girls Club of Paradise

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YMCA’s Oroville Summer Events

Growing Up Paradise Growing Up Oroville 32

Outdoor Summer Fun in the Oroville Area

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Events Calendar

In Every Issue

Preschool Directory Advertiser’s Directory

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Summer

Bucket List

Growing Up Chico came up with a check list of activities that you should try this summer. If you are ever in a bind and need a quick activity, refer back to this handy check list!

Growing Up Chico’s Summer Check List 1. Run through sprinklers 2. Go to a playground 3. Fire station tour 4. Visit the Chico Museum 5. Skip rocks 6. Play tennis 7. Go to a splash park 8. Fly kites 9. Play cards 10. 3 legged race 11. Dollar movies 12. Roller skate 13. Build a fort 14. Jump rope 15. Hula hoop 16. Stargaze 17. Pick berries 18. Roast marshmallows 19. Wash the car 20. Watch a sunset 21. Read stories together 22. Have a dance party 23. Do a puzzle 24. Paper airplane race 25. Try a new food 26. Eat breakfast for diner 27. Write a story 28. Paint rocks 29. Play tag 30. Visit a town close by you haven’t been to before 31. Have a no media day-no TV, computers or video games!

32. Go to a farmers market 33. Play Frisbee 34. Have a relay race 35. Watercolor 36. Tent camp in the backyard 37. Go to a petting zoo or humane society to pet animals 38. Walk on the Oroville Dam 39. Make leaf rubbings from things you collect in nature

40. Go bowling 41. Go the creek in Bidwell Park 42. Visit Kirshner Wildlife Sanctuary 43. Go fishing 44. Make lemonade 45. Finger paint 46. Make Popsicles 47. Treasure hunt 48. Swim 49. Get a Piñata just for fun 50. Telescope 51. Have a BBQ 52. Hike 53. Visit the Chico Creek Nature Center 54. Make ice cream 55. Visit a farm 56. Sidewalk chalk 57. Attend a fair 58. Wagon ride 59. Origami 60. Bean bag toss 61. Bocce ball 62. Go to the Gateway Science Museum 63. Go to an outdoor movie 64. Hopscotch 65. Have kids plan dinner 66. Fireworks 67. Picnic 68. Make an obstacle course 69. Go on a bike ride 70. Look for tadpoles 71. Catch bugs 72. Visit a library 73. Play with Playdough 74. Go to a parade 75. Feed ducks 76. Family movie night 77. Camping 78. Mini golf

summertime fun

Summer Art and Games Let Kids Teach You

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It is always fun to see beautifully made crafts, but little kids prefer the process over the outcome. They also like activities where they can be a part of the rules and control the environment rather than a specific game or craft with lots of rules or directions. Kids love to make up their own games and art projects.

Balloon Tennis With $1 Store Badminton Rackets

Blow up a balloon and hit back balloon and forth with each other. This is much easier and more fun than using that tiny birdie.

Bubbles

You can never go wrong with a great bubble machine and squirt bottles: Pop the bubbles by squirting them with your best shot.

Missing a few bubbles is just as fun with a group of kiddos -getting wet is part of the fun!

www.growingupchico.com

Life Sized Bubbles.

Can you say “AWESOME?!” For the Bubble Solution you need: 5 Gallons of Water, 10 Cups of Dawn dish soap (regular not antibacterial), Kiddie pool and a hula-hoop. I found a few things to be helpful: Let this solution sit overnight. For some reason this helps. The less foam you make, the better your bubbles will be. Too much foam is the enemy to giant bubbles.

Try to keep the splashing to a minimal here.

Squirt Bottle Painting

Grab a white bed sheet, fill water bottles with water and food coloring and go for it. Paint the whole sheet, it ends up tie-dyed.

Then, do what you want with it. I cut mine up and made capes as butterfly wings during my bugs and butterfly camp.

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Olympic Style Games

Kitchen Fun

By Robin Williams, owner of Dragonfly Playschool

Summer Recipe Ideas: We have made these during my little chef’s camps.

Keeping things fun, healthy and cool using what is in the garden is always best. Living in Chico requires staying cool in the summer and these recipes help do just that.

First, I highly recommend a snow cone machine to make healthy (yes, I said healthy) snow cones (I bought mine on line for $25.00 and it’s held up for 2 summers now). Stay away from store bought syrups. There is nothing in those that kids should consume!

Second, are easy to make, fruit chopstick pops. Use what you have or what’s being sold at the farmers market. These are fun for even the littlest hands to create.

Bonus: Okay, this is not exactly a “cool” recipe, but you can serve it over cool yogurt and your kids will think you are the coolest!! Ready?: Baked peaches. So easy, kids create them and they are as yummy as a laborious peach pie.

Mango Snow Cone Syrup

Makes 12 Servings (about 2 tablespoons per serving) Ingredients: 1 cup frozen or fresh mango chunks 3/4 cup orange juice 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Obstacle courses are a ton of fun and the kids usually think of better ways to create a course than I do. Throw down some hula-hoops (or hang them up on a clothes line to toss balls through) grab some things to jump over or run around and you are set. Balance a plastic egg on a wooden spoon, walk backwards, hop, jump or crawl. This is always creative and full of laughs.

Directions: Place the mango, juice, and vanilla extract in a blender, and blend until well combined. Pour the syrup into a squeeze bottle and pour over shaved ice.

Exploding Fun

Makes 8 Servings (about 2 tablespoons per serving)

Grab a Costco sized bag of baking soda and vinegar and you are set. You can add food coloring, but the chemical reaction is what kids love. I use a very small cup, the kids scoop baking soda, then using a dropper (like you use for liquid medicine) squirt vinegar and voila! You can build a play dough volcano around the cup or go to your sand box and build a sand volcano around the cup. The kids will do this over and over and over and over.

Dig for Frozen Treasures

Grab a plastic Tupperware and fill it with water. Add small goodies: make it a theme with your kids’ little dinosaurs, Legos, small gems, etc. Put in the freezer overnight. The next day, the kids get to dig out their treasures. Let them figure out how to rescue them by digging with utensils or sticks. You can also experiment with melting parts with rock salt or drops of warm water.

Blueberry Snow Cone Syrup Ingredients: 1 cup fresh or frozen blueberries 1/4 cup water 2 tablespoons honey 1 teaspoon lemon juice

Directions: Place the blueberries, water, honey, and lemon juice in a blender, and blend until well combined. Pour the syrup into a squeeze bottle and pour over shaved ice.

Nutrition Information per Serving (2 tablespoons): 15 calories, 0g fat (0g saturated), mg sodium, 4g carbohydrate, 4g sugar, 1g fiber, 0g protein

Kitchen Fun,

Continued

Fruit Chopstick Pops Ingredients: Pint Vanilla Yogurt 12 fresh Organic Strawberries, remove stems (or any fruit) Bamboo Chopsticks Assorted toppings Chopped nuts Shredded coconut Sprinkles Directions: Line a sheet pan with Silpat or a clean brown paper grocery bag to fit, set aside.

Spoon 1 cup of yogurt into a small bowl. Insert 1 bamboo chopstick into the stem end of 2 strawberries or other fruit.

Using the chopstick as a skewer, dip the fruit pops into the yogurt. Add yogurt to bowl as needed.

Lay each pop on the prepared sheet pan and decorate with nuts, coconut, and sprinkles. Place in freezer for at least 2 hours before covering or serving. Store covered in freezer until ready to serve.

Baked Peaches Makes 4-6 Servings

Fresh peaches baked with brown sugar and a dash of cinnamon taste like peach pie without the pastry. Of course, these are delicious served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, but they are also very good with Greek yogurt, drizzled with honey lavender syrup or just by themselves.

Ingredients: Peaches Brown Sugar Honey Slivered Almonds Directions: Preheat the oven to 375 degrees.

Place the peaches cut-side up in a baking dish. Fill each peach cavity with brown sugar, a dash of cinnamon, and almonds. Pour enough water in the bottom of the pan to come ½ inch up the side of the pan. Bake 35 to 40 minutes, until the flesh has softened and the tops are browned. Serve warm, with the toppings of your choice.

summertime fun

Summer Reading Program

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oin the Chico Branch of the Butte County Library for fun activities all summer long! Summer Reading begins with a kick-off and pet parade on June 7th.

Throughout the summer, there will be fun incentives for reading; as well as special shows that include a magician, ukulele music, dogs, wild animals, and more!

There will also be Library Playtimes throughout the year.

Playtimes are focused on early literacy and development for the very young. There will be special resource guests from the community available to talk with parents and guardians about opportunities for growth and development within our Chico community. The next Library Playtime is June 18th from 9:30 – 11:30.

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Activities happen every week in the library. There are Storytimes for ages 0 – 12, chess club and Wii for older kids and teens, homework help, crafts, and even the opportunity to read to a dog.

For a monthly calendar, please visit the Chico branch of the Butte County Libraries’ website, or simply visit the library.

www.growingupchico.com www.growingupchico.com

summertime fun

Golfing With Your Kids

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Healthy Family Fun

By Amy Behlke

uly is “Family Golf Month.” Golfing with kids, or family golf, is a trend growing in popularity. Getting outside for 18 holes with the family this summer is a great way to be healthier and spend some quality time with the kids.

Golf should not be counted out as being a heart healthy sport just because it is considered a leisurely activity. Walking is one of the best activities for the heart and even with the use of a cart, the average 18 hole course requires 6 miles of walking.

Golf is also the perfect sport to play with your kids. Most courses are very supportive of young golfers, allowing young children to play with their parents for a very low fee or even free of charge. Golfing with your children provides rare one-on-one time in a beautiful outdoor setting.

When children golf, it is important that children play with age-appropriate clubs, which can often be rented from the golf course clubhouse. To purchase junior clubs, check local, used sporting equipment stores for quality used clubs.

Start by taking your kids to the driving range. Get a few buckets of balls and show the kids the fundamentals of holding a club and swinging it. There are few things more fun for kids than hitting a bucket of balls at a driving range! Once they have the hang of swinging the club, try a few holes at a local course.

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The best thing about golfing with kids is that you do not have to be an expert golfer to have a good time! The slower pace of golfing with kids will allow the adults to

Photo by: Amy Evans Photography

get in some good practice time while teaching the kids the basic fundamentals of the sport. A beautiful, sunny morning of golfing is the perfect way to be active and spend quality time with your family this summer!

Find us on facebook to find out about family friendly events, giveaways and promotions!

It’s all at: facebook.com/growingupchico

Conserving Water is

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By Nani Teves

eing in a water shortage heightens our awareness of the importance of water in our lives. We notice the creeks running shallow mid-winter and watch our plants die, and we take action. We teach our kids to turn the faucet off while brushing their teeth, we stop watering our lawns, and we talk to our friends about what a drought means for local farmers. If we do this together and long term, we might find that drought cycles would no longer be considered emergencies.

www.growingupchico.com www.growingupchico.com

family time

Our Best Bet

Quiz:

Quiz Answers

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1. Where does your water come from?

2. Why is there water in the creek in the summer even though it has not rained in months?

3. How much water on average does a Chico citizen use each day?

4. Where do the creeks of Chico originate from and flow to?

5. What are three ways your family does, or could, conserve water?

Answers Below Answer 1: Our water supply is groundwater. For bonus points: The Tuscan Aquifer Answer 2: Snow melt recharges the groundwater, which flows to the creeks throughout the summer by gravity.

Answer 3: 230 gallons Answer 4: From Sierra Nevada Mountains to the Sacramento River to the ocean.

Answer 5: Endless possibilities

growingup upchico chicomagazine magazine growing

How Water Wise Are You?

Often we are told that water conservation, reuse, and appropriate land-uses are not enough to meet our needs in California and we must build more dams and export more water from the north to the south. After 100 years of dam building and moving water around the state, we still find ourselves without enough water; but what does “enough mean?” Does enough mean using water to farm water-intensive orchards in arid environments? Does enough mean flushing drinking water quality water down the toilet? Water experts argue we already have enough water; we just need to be much more intelligent about how we use it. Cities like Los Angeles have met the challenge by managing storm water as a valuable resource, they use recycled water for irrigation, and they implement and fund large scale water conservation measures. In fact, Los Angeles residents use about 100 fewer gallons of water a day per person than we do up here in the north, and the city has increased their population by a million people without increasing their total water usage.

Because the Sierra Nevada snow pack is projected to decrease dramatically as a result of climate change, and there is increased pressure to export local groundwater to the San Joaquin Valley, it is critical we implement the sustainable solutions now before we find ourselves in more and more drought emergencies.

When we do this in our homes, on our farms, and in our communities, we will find that conserving water is not a chore but an empowering ethic of appreciation.

Here is an activity that demonstrates to your kids where their water comes from: Fill a clear glass half way with gravel and soil to represent the ground. Pour water into the glass like rain, demonstrating that the ground is like a sponge that holds water. Pour a little extra water in until the glass is ¾ full, explaining that this extra represents lakes or creeks. Then place a straw deep into the glass, to represent a well which pumps the water out of the ground into the water towers, and then through pipes to our homes. Ask them what would happen if more wells went in and we pumped more water. Ask them what ideas they have to save water.

family time www.growingupchico.com www.growingupchico.com www.growingupchico.com growing upchico chico magazine growing up 20 growing upmagazine chico magazine 20

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new telephone helpline is now available in Butte County as a central point of entry for anyone seeking assistance with basic needs, health care, and other social services. 2-1-1 is an easy to remember telephone number that connects callers to information and nonemergency health and human services available in their community. For everyday needs or during times of hardship, callers should dial 2-1-1 for the following types of services: • Basic Human Needs: food, clothing, shelters, rent and utilities assistance, housing.

• Physical and Mental Health Resources: medical clinics, support groups, counseling, drug and alcohol treatment, health insurance, maternal health, children’s developmental screening.

• Support for Children, Youth and Families: Early childhood programs, family resource centers,

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child care information, recreation programs, safety education, and prevention programs.

Employment Support: unemployment benefits, financial assistance, job training programs, transportation assistance, education programs.

Support for Older Adults, Veterans, and Persons with Disabilities: in-home assistance, adult day care, transportation, veteran’s benefits and housing, assistive medical devices.

Volunteer opportunities and donations

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he call to 2-1-1 is free, confidential, and can be made from a land line telephone or from a cell phone. Callers will be connected to a Butte 2-1-1 Information Specialist who can help identify options and available programs and services in the caller’s community. A Spanish speaking bilingual information specialist is available at Butte 2-1-1, as well as translation for callers in more than 150

languages. People who wish to communicate by text rather than speaking on the phone can text their zip code to 898211. A 2-1-1 specialist will respond and can offer information and assistance by text (The caller’s usual cell phone plan charges apply when they call or text 2-1-1).

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We are getting calls and texts from every community in Butte County,” said Tara SullivanHames, the Director of Butte 2-1-1 operations. “With higher than average unemployment and poverty levels for individuals and families in Butte County, the need for help is real and people are seeking supportive services.

At 2-1-1, we’re the connecting point, a central hub for helping people access community resources and find support.”

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eople seeking services often do not know where to start and have difficulty trying to navigate the maze of services to find the resources that offer help.

2-1-1 provides a one-stop

service for vital information where the process to find support is streamlined and simplified for everyone.

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Butte County has so many excellent service providers. When those services are available, we want to get people connected to help early on and before their situation spirals into a crisis,” said Sullivan-Hames.

2-1-1 is an easy number to remember that people can call anytime. The Butte 2-1-1 information specialists are trained to assess the caller’s needs and to identify options for referrals to programs and services that can offer assistance. “Our Butte 2-1-1 specialists truly want to help people find the support they need. Connecting a parent to a service that enables her to put food on the table for her family, or helping a veteran locate a job training program, or providing a father with information on counseling services for his teenage son is a personal and professional success for our Butte 2-1-1 staff,” said Sullivan-Hames.

family time Aladdin Jr. Brings a Whole New World into Laxson Auditorium

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By Amanda Lennon

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elcome to the City of Enchantment, where everyone’s favorite street rat finds himself in a whole new world of carpet rides and chaos.

Aladdin, along with his friends, Princess Jasmine, Genie, Sultan, and evil Jafar are bringing music, magic, and mayhem to Laxson Auditorium this May. Storyteller, formerly known as Playhouse Youth Theatre, has cast local children to bring the classic Disney fairytale, Aladdin, to life on the Laxson Auditorium stage. Showcasing 62 kids, ages 7-16, from around the North State, this musical will feature popular songs from the Disney production of Aladdin as well as songs from the hit Broadway production.

This shortened, “Jr.” version of the story features the fearless young street urchin, Aladdin, and his quest to marry the beautiful Princess Jasmine. But in order to marry her, he needs a little help from his friend, Genie, to turn him into a Prince fit for the Princess. Meanwhile, malicious Jafar and his conniving parrot, Iago, plan to expose Aladdin and force Jasmine to marry Jafar instead, in a scheme to inherit the rights and powers of the Sultan of Agrabah.

“I’m excited about the unique casting and special surprises in this performance,” said Lisa Schmidt, director of Aladdin Jr. and founder of Storyteller, Chico’s year-round children’s theatre.

This will be Schmidt’s tenth year directing children’s performances in conjunction with Chico Performances in Laxson Auditorium, but Schmidt has been directing children’s performances for 15 years.

Garrett Miller, Aladdin Jr.’s co-director, stated that the set, designed by Dave Beasly, showcases the mystical city of

Agrabah like a “fantasy pop-up book.” This will be Miller’s first year co-directing with Lisa Schmidt.

Leading the adventure of mayhem and magic are a few returning students and a few new faces. Playing the part of Aladdin is 12 year old Spencer Gosselin from Chico Jr. High School. 10 year old Katherine LeRoux from Rosedale Elementary School will be playing the leading lady, Jasmine. Jasmine’s father, Sultan, will be played by 13 year old Isabel Rodriguez from Sherwood Montessori School. And we can’t forget about the manipulating evil Jafar, who is being played by 16 year old Nicholas Hoover from Inspire School of the Arts & Sciences.

Featured in this junior version are classic songs from the hit Broadway musical show: “Arabian Nights,” “A Whole New World,” and “Friend Like Me.” Chico Performances is excited to host thousands of kids from surrounding schools during two morning student performances of Aladdin Jr. on May 7th as part of the Chico Performances Field Trip Series. The Field Trip series introduces kids to the world of live theatre every year by offering low cost tickets to teachers and students.

The evening performance of Aladdin Jr. will be held on Wednesday, May 7, 2014 at 7:30 p.m. in Laxson Auditorium at CSU, Chico and is open to the public.

Tickets can be purchased online at www.chicoperformances.com or by calling 530-898-6333.

growing up greener

Although we have had a rough time with the drought over the winter, the residents in Chico are creative about finding ways to be sustainable.

This is a perfect time to teach your little ones about water conservation, to enjoy nature, and how to be good stewards of resources. Here are a few easy and fun activities.

Need more ideas or lessons for art, science, and more? Visit www. forkidsbooks.com for free and inexpensive resources for your home and the classroom.

Be the Change!

By Sally Hedley

Nature Scavenger Hunt Recycled Compost Bins

www.growingupchico.com www.growingupchico.com

You can make small compost bins using old coffee cans, gallon ice cream bins, or any container with a lid. Have your little ones decorate the outside of the container and the lid and write what items can go in it and what items cannot. Have them add to it with “green” and “brown” items that add nitrogen and carbon. Once the smaller bins are full, have them pour the contents into a compost pile or a larger bin.

A Tupperware container with holes drilled into it is an inexpensive option.

Have them observe and draw/write about the changes in the paper, food scraps, and leaves.

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Egg Carton Starter Pots Using a recycled cardboard 12 or 18 egg carton, cut off the lid (set it aside for later) and cut the carton containers into individual pieces. These will be your starter pots. Place them into the lid and fill them with soil from your yard or compost. Add your seeds and water them every day. When the seedlings are the right size, plant the carton starter pots and plants in a large pot or in the garden.

“Be the CHANGE you want to see in the WORLD” -Mahatma Ghandi

Take your kids to Bidwell, DeGarmo, Hooker Oak, or one of the other parks in the area. Give them brown paper bags to collect items on the hunt. Have the kids find a rock, 2-5 different types of leaves, a feather, grass, evidence of humans (cups, paper, etc.), something rough, something smooth, something white, something green, something pretty, animal tracks, a flower or clover, etc. Ask them to look for animals such as a bird, a squirrel, a chipmunk, or a dog. Discuss with them how many amazing plants and animals are in the area. Talk with them about what you saw in the park(s) and about ways to help people understand the impact of garbage on the environment.

They can also take a rubbing sample of tree bark or leaves (use a white piece of paper and the side of a crayon).

Valley Oaks Children’s Services oers workshops for Parents and Child Care Professionals on a variety of topics.

For a workshop calendar call or visit our website.

summer camps www.growingupchico.com

Camps Bidwell Rock N’ Roll Bidwell Band Camp

CONTACT: 321-0863, www.bidwellrnr.com AGES: 6-18 years COST: $375 DATES: June 15th-June 20th, July 14th-July 18th DESCRIPTION: Welcome to the Bidwell Band Camp! Campers will be grouped in bands to play and record in a professional music studio in Downtown Chico. Monday through Thursday, 10am-2pm, the students will receive instruction on their instruments with a break at Noon for a catered lunch. The camp culminates in a live performance on Friday at 4pm. All instruments, all experience levels, come out and rock!

Boys and Girls Club of the North Valley Camp Journey

CONTACT: 899-0335, www.BGCNV.org AGES: 6-12 years COST: $100 per week DATES: June 9th-August 15th DESCRIPTION: Camp Journey is a full service summer day camp that serves youth ages 6-12. Our camp is open Monday through Friday from 7:30am-6pm. Camp Journey is the most affordable summer program in Chico and provides some of the most inclusive and extensive services.

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California Regional Theatre CRT Kids

CONTACT: 1-800-722-4522, www.CRTKIDS.com AGES: 5-18 years COST: $150-$180 DATES: June 9th- June 26th and July 7th-July 24th DESCRIPTION: In Session 1, Ages 7-11, will perform Disney’s Aristocats Kids, while ages 5-6 perform selections of songs with them.

Ages 12-18 will be performing Hats Off to Broadway pt. 1! In Session 2, Ages 7-11 will perform The Magic Tree House: Dinosaurs Before Dark, while ages 5-6 perform selections of songs with them. Ages 12-18 will be performing Hats Off to Broadway pt. 2!

Challenger Sports British Soccer British Soccer Camps

CONTACT: 916-596-1694, www.challengersports.com AGES: 3-14 years COST: Varies per camp/duration of session DATES: June-August DESCRIPTION: Challenger Sports employs professional British soccer coaches to run soccer training camps for children in the USA. All kids get a free soccer ball, T-shirt

and evaluation. Sign up online 45 days before camp to get a FREE British soccer jersey! Each day includes individual foot skills, technical drills, tactical practices, small-sided games, coached scrimmages, and a daily World Cup tournament. Oroville Soccer Club 7/21 - 7/25 Location - Riverbend Park, Paradise Ridge Soccer Club 8/4 - 8/8 Location-Moore Road Ball Park, CARD Week 1–sign up only through CARD 6/9 6/13 Location-DeGarmo Park, CARD Week 2–sign up only through CARD 6/23 - 6/27 Location-DeGarmo Park.

Chico Art School & Gallery Fun with Painting & Drawing

CONTACT: 570-3895, www.chicoartschool.com AGES: 7 years and up COST: $125 DATES: June 9th-12th, June 16th-19th, June 23rd-26th, June 30th-July 3rd, July 7th-10th, July 14th-17th, July 21st-24th, July 28th-31st, August 4th-7th, August 11th-14th DESCRIPTION: Whether just beginning, or wanting to improve your art talents, this camp will cover the fundamentals with an emphasis on FUN! Instruction includes painting and drawing in many mediums such as: charcoal, watercolor pencils, tempera paints, and collage. You will learn about perspective, mixing your own colors, contour drawing, shading, texture and composition. Develop your own creative style of art in a small and supportive atmosphere. There will be small class sizes with instructor, Janet Lombardi Blixt, voted best Chico artist for 5 years by the CN&R and best teacher this past year. To view the teacher’s and students’ artwork, visit the Chico Art School Facebook page or www. chicoartschool.com.

Chico Bullpen Baseball Academy Bullpen Summer Camp

CONTACT: 230-2100, www.chicobullpenba.com AGES: 6-14 years COST: Please call DATES: Please call DESCRIPTION: Participants will enhance their baseball skills through in-depth and positive instruction led by former college players, professional players and professional coaches. Instruction will include pitching, hitting, fielding, catching, base running and games. Players of all skill levels welcome!

Please check out the website for more information.

Chico Cheer All Stars, Inc. July Summer Camps CONTACT: 894-2227,

www.ChicoCheer AllStars.com AGES: 4 years and up COST: 1st camp $100, 2nd camp $75, 3rd $50 DATES: Beginners Cheerleading Camp: July 7th-10th Tumbling Camp: July 14th-17th Stunt Camp: July 21st-24th DESCRIPTION: Beginners Cheer Camp: If your athlete loves cheer, this is the camp for them! Athletes will learn basic cheerleading motions and terminology, tumbling, jumps, and a special dance to perform on the final day! Tumbling Camp: If your child loves to tumble, this is the perfect camp to help them succeed. Athletes will work on tumbling skills and jumps. Stunt Camp: This camp is for anyone looking to advance their stunting skills. Athletes will learn the proper technique to base, back spot or fly in a variety of stunts throughout the week. Special focus is on flexibility and proper technique.

Chico Creek Dance Centre Show*Kids “Princess Fantasy” Dance Camp

CONTACT: 893-9028, www.chicocreekdancecentre.com AGES: 4-10 years COST: $150.00 DATES: June 9th-June 20th DESCRIPTION: Show*Kids “Princess Fantasy” Dance Camp offers children ages 4-10 years an experience in the wonderful world of Dance and Theatre! Campers will be provided with an introduction to several dance styles in preparation for performances during the last week of camp. This will be a great opportunity for children to explore their own creativity through movement and meet new friends! Special camp shirts, crafts, games, prizes, performance and a cast party are all included. 9am-12noon.

Chico Montessori Children’s House Summer Camps

CONTACT: 342-5518, www.chicomontessori.com AGES: 2.9-6 (potty trained) COST: Varies DATES: June-August DESCRIPTION: Chico Montessori Children’s House is looking forward to presenting twoweek educational themed sessions throughout the summer for children 2.9 (and potty trained) through 6 years of age. Sessions will include: art, dinosaurs, science, cooking, the solar system and the five senses. Throughout the summer, the Montessori materials will still be available and every day we will have summertime water activities. We have half day and full day options available. Visit our website for more information.

Chico Creek Nature Center Camp Chico Creek

CONTACT: 530-891-4671, www.BidwellPark.org AGES: Ages 5-12 COST: $160 per week full days, $100 per week half days, or $40 per day for full day or $25 per day for half day DATES: June 9-August 15th, full & half days, with extended care available

DESCRIPTION: Campers learn about and enjoy nature through guided hikes, STEM aligned natural science labs, presentations of the Nature Center’s live animals, arts and crafts and swimming in Big Chico Creek.

Join us and see how much fun learning can be. We are now offering convenient online registration. Camp runs 9am to 4pm with options for half day and extended care. See our teen programs as well. Lunch provided.

Camp Thrive

CONTACT: 891-4671, www.BidwellPark.org AGES: 5-13 COST: $35 per day or $63 per week DATES: June 9- Aug 15, Wednesdays and Fridays 9:30 to 3:30 DESCRIPTION: Designed for kids who thrive in an open structured, child directed setting, Camp Thrive is a unique day camp experience with plenty of time for free play in nature.

Campers get to swim in the creek, socialize, build nature forts, meet animals and work on science and art projects in beautiful Bidwell Park. Lunch Provided.

Jr. Naturalist (Counselor in Training) Level 1

CONTACT: 530-891-4671, www.BidwellPark.org AGES: For students entering grades 7and 8 in the fall.

DATES: June 9- Aug 15 COST: $30 per week DESCRIPTION: Earn career experience working with younger kids this summer!

Spend your summer in the park and by the creek assisting camp counselors with games, crafts and animal care. Candidates will go through an interview process before being selected and are asked to attend 8 of 10 weeks for 6+ hours per day. Jr. Naturalists get to attend Nature Vacation Camp free. Lunch provided.

Jr. Naturalist (Counselor in Training) Level 2

CONTACT: 530-891-4671, www.BidwellPark.org AGES: For students entering grades 9 through 12 in fall.

COST: Jr. Naturalists Earn up to $700 working for the summer DATES: June 9-Aug 15 DESCRIPTION: Earn career experience and a stipend up to $700 working with younger kids this summer! Spend your summer in the park and by the creek assisting camp counselors and leading games, crafts and animal care.

Candidates will go through an interview process before being selected and are asked to attend 8 of 10 weeks for 7+ hours per day.

Jr. Naturalists get to attend Nature Vacation Camp free. Lunch provided.

Nature Vacation Camp (for teens) CONTACT: 530-891-4671, www.BidwellPark.org AGES: 13 to 17 COST: $30 per day or $96 per week DATES: June 9- Aug 15, Mondays thru Thursdays, 10am to 3pm

DESCRIPTION: Enjoy swimming, hiking, and socializing in beautiful Bidwell Park.

Learn how to handle and care for the Nature Center’s animals and enjoy some natural science lab activities, art and recreation.

Choose your days of attendance to fit around your other summer activities. Lunch provided.

Chico Racquet Club Tennis Camp

CONTACT: 895-1881, www.chicoracquetclub.com AGES: 4-16 years COST: Please call DATES: June 9th-August 15th DESCRIPTION: Tennis is a sport for everyone! Weekly sessions: Monday-Friday 10:30am to 3pm, June 9th – Aug 15th.

Campers will learn about the game of tennis through skills, drills, games and matches.

Campers will also enjoy a refreshing break in the Club’s swimming pool! Racquets and balls provided. Please call for more information.

Chico Jazzercise Center Jazzerkamp

CONTACT: 896-9743, jazz4me@chicojazzercise.com AGES: 1st through 6th Grades COST:$120 DATES: August 4th-8th from 12-3:30pm DESCRIPTION: Get in on all the fun with Jazzerkamp! Every Session Includes: Dance Technique, Arts & Crafts, Relay Races, End of Party Performance, Games, Jazzercise Idol, Healthy Snacks, and so much more!

Dragonfly Playschool Dragonfly Summer Camp

CONTACT: 864-5916, www.dragonflyplayschool.com AGES: 2.5-7 years COST: $95 DATES: June 10th-August 9th DESCRIPTION: Dragonfly Day Camp is designed to give children ages 2 ½-7 a playful summer camp experience. Each week has a different theme integrating: cooking, crafts, experiments, water play, games and music.

Your children are sure to have fun, make new friends and enjoy their exciting day at camp. Enrollment includes all materials plus a healthy snack and lunch.

Durham Recreation & Park District Durh-amazing Summer Camp

CONTACT: 345-1921, www.durhamrec.com AGES: Grades K-6th COST: Full time $145/week, Half Day $95/ week, Drop In $35/day DATES: June 2nd-August 8th DESCRIPTION: Join our weekly themed, fun filled summer camp. Daily activities include: arts and crafts, sports, wacky games, group challenges, field trips and SWIMMING! Afternoon snack is provided for full day campers. Registration and fees and can be completed online at www.durhamrec.com or in the recreation office. Enrollment is week-toweek. Options include full time, part time and daily drop in.

EV Free Church of Chico Vacation Bible School

CONTACT: 343-6022, www.efcchico.org AGES: 5 years (by Sept. 1)-entering 6th grade COST: FREE! DATES: July 21st-25th DESCRIPTION: Join us for 5 days of music, Bible stories, crafts, games, and snacks! This year’s theme is Son Treasure Island: Where Kids Discover God’s Love! Hope to see you July 21st-25th from 9am-noon. There is no cost for the program; T-shirts and CD are available for purchase. See you there! 1193 Filbert Ave. Register by July 14th or until full.

For more information, please call.

Feather River Recreation & Park District Feather River Rec & Park District Summer Camps

CONTACT: 533-2011, amandam@frrpd.com AGES: 5-12 years COST: Varies DATES: June 9th-August 8th DESCRIPTION: There is something for everyone at FRRPD! Join us for a week of Fun in the Sun Camp or one of our specialty camps. Fun in the Sun is a traditional day camp for campers between the ages of 5 & 12.

A full day of fun is planned each week. If you do not need a full day camp, we have Lego Camp, Sports Camps and also Skateboard Camp this year. We hope to see you this summer. Visit us online at www.frrpd.com for complete camp information.

FunLand/ Cal Skate Chico FunLand Extreme Fun Summer Camps

CONTACT: 343-1601, www.funlandchico.com AGES: 5-12 years COST: $130 all day (9am-5pm) or $100 mornings (9am-1pm) DATES: Session 1: June 16th-June 20th, Session 2: July 7th-July 11th, Session 3: July 21st-July 25th, Session 4: August 4th-August 8th DESCRIPTION: These summer camps are designed to be fun, heart-healthy, active alternatives to the ‘normal’ summer camp.

This is a chance for the campers to do everything FunLand and Cal Skate has to offer, and then some! Campers can spend the morning, or the whole day, doing things not normally offered to the public. Activities will include, but are not limited to: Skating, minigolfing, batting, arts/crafts, arcade games, dodge ball, hockey, and more!

Gateway Science Museum Gateway Science Museum Summer Discovery Camps

CONTACT: 898-4121, www.gatewayscience.org AGES: Children entering grades 4-6 and children entering grades 7-9 COST: $185 per session for grades 4-6 and

summer camps www.growingupchico.com

Camps

Continued

$195 per session for grades 7-9. Each includes lunch and snacks.

DATES: June 16th-20th from 9am-3pm for grades 4-6 and July 21st-25th from 9am-3pm for grades 7-9 DESCRIPTION: Become a detective this summer! Gateway Science Discovery Camps are full of exciting activities that allow participants to explore the world of forensic sciences. Activities include: finger printing, blood typing, animal tracking, chromatography, and more. Solve the case of the lost skull in order to earn your own detective badge. Campers will also receive their own personalized backpack, T-shirt, water bottle, and journal.

HYPE Dance Studio HYPE Summer Dance Camps 2014

CONTACT: 898-8789, www.hypedancestudio.com AGES: 3-5, 6-8, 9-12 COST: $80.00 - $115.00 DATES: See below DESCRIPTION: HYPE summer camps are SUMMER FUN! We provide knowledge and encouragement to all of our campers, as well as a sense of accomplishment and inspiration to help continue improving their skills.

Campers develop great friendships and longlasting memories! Princess Camp #1: June 16-18. Teen Beach Camp: June 23-26. Hip Hop Camp: July 7-10. Pom Camp: July 14-16.

Princess Camp #2: July 21-23.

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In Motion Fitness Kids In Motion Swim Camps

CONTACT: 895-5437, www.inmotionfitness.net AGES: 4-8 years COST: $95 DATES: 4 week long sessions; June 16th, July 7th July 21st and August 4th DESCRIPTION: Kids in Motion camps include art, science, nutrition and SWIMMING! Each camp is run MondayFriday from 9am to 1pm for children ages 4 to 8 years old. Each session will have a special theme and will include a pizza party on the last day of each camp. Each camper should bring a swimsuit, towel, sunscreen and a lunch for each day. See you at the pool!

JEI Learning Center, Chico JEI Summer Day Camp

CONTACT: 267-1300, www.chico.jeilearning.com AGES: 5 – 15 years COST: $450-$550 DATES: June 9th-July 31st DESCRIPTION: Avoid the Summer Slide by enrolling at JEI! Don’t Experience Summer

Learning Loss! JEI Programs are aligned with Common Core State Standards to give Students the advantage they need. Children can customize their summer classes by selecting subjects for which they need the most help. We will offer JEI-Math, English, Reading & Writing and Problem Solving Math. Classes held Monday-Thursday. Free Enrollment June 1-30.

Kids Outdoor Sports Camp KOSC

CONTACT: 526-4218, www.mykosc.org AGES: 10-15 years COST: $650/Sunday-Friday DATES: June 15th-20th, June 22nd-27th, July 13th-18th DESCRIPTION: Leave electronic equipment home and spend Sunday-Friday learning about wildlife, conservation, 1st aid and skills for fishing, archery and shooting targets. Kids will be housed in comfortable lodging and will need to bring a sleeping bag, pillow and personal items. We provide the equipment for all the activities. Kids will be tested to receive a Hunter Ed Certificate. We have had 17 years of successful camps.

Kings Christian School KC All Stars Summer Camp

CONTACT: 345-3100, kcpreschool1137@gmail.com AGES: Kindergarten – 6th Grade COST: $135/week full day, $90/week half days, Attend 3 weeks and get the 4th for half price DATES: June 9th-August 15th DESCRIPTION: Join us for a summer of fun, friends and fiestas! All Stars is a day camp where kids can learn and play in a safe place with a low teacher to student ratio. Our quality teachers have tons of experience and are planning a great time for summer. Please contact us for more information. 6:30am6:00pm, Monday-Friday @ King’s Christian All Stars (Chico 1st Assembly).

La Casita Primera Preschool LCP Summer Program

CONTACT: 343-3044, www.lacasitaprimera.com AGES: 2.9 years (potty trained) – 5 years (entrance to Kindergarten) COST: $145-$255 (depends on days) DATES: Session 1: June 9th-June 27th, Session 2: July 9th-July 18th, Session 3: July 18th-August 1st DESCRIPTION: Join us this summer for 3 summer sessions filled with water play, stories, arts & crafts, gardening, organic snacks, Spanish language, and so much more!

Open registration until spots are filled! Camp times are: 8:30am-11:45am or 1pm-4:15pm.

Some full day spots available if needed.

Parkside Daycare Discovery Day Camp

CONTACT: 894-6800, www.kidspark.com AGES:4-12 years COST: $175 one child, $115 second sibling (same camp) DATES: June 9th-August 8th DESCRIPTION: Looking for something fun to do this summer? KidsPark summer camps have the ultimate choices for you! Many choices: from outdoor activities like Wet N’ Wild and Gardening, to indoor activities like Kid Concoctions and Cooking. Come on in and take your pick. Camps run Monday-Friday from 9am-3pm (childcare available before and after camp). Call now to sign up.

CONTACT: 893-5139, www.parksidedaycare.com AGES: 5-9 years COST: $150 per week DATES: June 9th – August 15th DESCRIPTION: Come Discover with Us! From exploring Bidwell Park, to science experiments and cooking, gardening, swimming, and daily field trips; each week brings a new theme and new adventures.

Field trips include: GRUB community garden, 2 by 2 Petting Zoo, Chico Science Museum, horseback riding, miniature golf, and more.

This camp is entertaining and educational for all ages. Unbeatable price includes flexible hours, all field trips and meals. A ton of fun!

Go to www.parksidedaycare.com for weekly camp descriptions.

Kinetics Academy of Dance Tea Party Camp

Progressive Schoolhouse 23rd Annual Summer Arts Program

KidsPark KidsPark Summer Camp

CONTACT: 345-2505, www.kineticsacademyofdance.com AGES: 4-6 years COST: $95 DATES: July 21st-July 25th, 9am-12pm DESCRIPTION: Come and have a tea party with us! Make your own tea party hat, learn basic tea party etiquette (parents love this part) and dance! You will learn how to set a beautiful table and even help make delicious goodies. On the last day of camp, we will invite parents to join the fun at one grand tea party.

CONTACT: 345-5665, www.progressiveschoolhouse.com AGES: 5-15 years + family COST: $35-$130, multiple fee options DATES: June 16th-August 8th DESCRIPTION: For ages 5 and up, we have three 8-week programs, one-day or multiple day options, $35-$130. Children’s Art Program (ages 5-15): June 16th-August 8th, M-F, 9am-2pm; instruction in various areas of artistic discipline. Academic Support: M-W, 2:30-5:30pm; comprehensive & individualized. Open Studio: M-W, 6-8pm.

In association with The International Institute of Education Through the Arts, The Artist’s Playground offers children & families an opportunity to participate in an exciting arts experience that supports the development, expression, learning process & autonomy of the individual.

place at CSU’s Laxson Auditorium. Already in the 6th year of existence, Storyteller is for youth with all experience levels. Whether your child is shy or outgoing, this is a great way to gain more confidence, be creative, work with a team and have fun! Please contact for orientation, rehearsal and show times.

Rose Scott School Rose Scott School Summer Camps

Summer Camp at the Barry Kirshner Wildlife Sanctuary & Educational Center Critter Camp

CONTACT: 354-3101, www.rosescottschool.com AGES: K-12th COST: $260 for each 2 week session from 9:30-2:30pm with day-care from 2:30-4:30pm for $6 per hour.

DATES: 1st session June 16th-27th, 2nd session July 14th-July 25th DESCRIPTION: Rose Scott School is a nonprofit, private K-12 school specializing in students with giftedness, ADHD, Asperger’s Syndrome, high-functioning autism and other learning challenges and strengths. We are offering two separate two-week sessions.

Activities include: Gardening, Arts and Crafts, Sewing, Nature Activities, Cooking, Team Building Games, Making Jewelry, Fit Kids: PE to Music, and Swimming at One Mile.

Silver Dollar BMX BMX Camp

CONTACT: 566-1BMX, www.silverdollarbmx.org AGES: 3 years and up COST: $110 per week DATES: June 9th through July 18th DESCRIPTION: CARD and Silver Dollar BMX have partnered to bring BMX to Chico again this summer. Come and meet our professional instructor, Jake Peebles, and other national champion instructors. If you are just beginning, or have some experience in the novice class, you will not want to miss out on Jake’s secrets! This camp features basic instruction from the starting gate to the finish line, including gate starts, passing, jumps and more! Camp is open to boys and girls. Each class member will receive 4 Thursday night practices and race sessions at the Silver Dollar BMX track ($20 value). Practice is from 6:00pm to 7:00pm with racing starting shortly thereafter.

Storyteller A Children’s Theatre Summer Program

CONTACT: 774-4451, playhouseyouththeatre.com AGES: 4-17 years COST: $110-$200 DATES: Varies depending on program DESCRIPTION: Rapunzel, a musical for Ages 4 – 7 & 7 – 17. Can Prince Llewellyn persevere over the powers of evil? Will the sages Parsley, Rosemary and Thyme be able to help? Can Rapunzel convince the witch that it’s okay to be unique? Storyteller is under the direction of Lisa Schmidt, Garrett Miller and Seth Snyder. Formally, Playhouse Youth Theatre, all orientations, rehearsals and shows take place at The Chico Women’s Club. Except the spring production that takes

CONTACT: 831.915.3323, salamasena@yahoo.com AGES: 5-11 years COST: $152 Tuesday—Friday or $45 per day DATES: June 17th-20th 9am-2pm DESCRIPTION: Prices Include: Snacks, crafts, activities, a tour, getting up close with the reptiles, meeting the trainers and learning all about exotic, endangered and local wildlife. Learn about their habitats and their habits! Please RSVP with Angie Bracco at: salamasena@yahoo.com or call or text 831.915.3323. Space is limited!

Summer Sewing Classes with Ruth Sewing Camp

CONTACT: 896-0945, greenlyruth@sbcglobal.net AGES: All ages COST: $35/class, or $175 for six DATES: Thursdays from June 26th-August 7th DESCRIPTION: Classes are held on Thursdays, 6/26-8/7, 10 am-4 pm: Beginning and intermediate/advanced sewing and garment design classes. Projects provided for beginners; intermediate/advanced students will work with patterns and make their own designs. Bring your own machine, if you can!

Snacks and drinks provided.

TJ Farms Farm Camp at TJ Farms

CONTACT: 343-2294, www.TJFarmsestates.com AGES: 6-12 years COST: $125 DATES: July 7th-11th and August 4th-8th DESCRIPTION: Come join us at TJ Farms to get hands-on experience learning about agriculture; from gardening to farm animals, also blacksmithing and more. We are limited to only 12 participants per camp. Like us at TJ Farms Estates on Facebook for more information regarding camps and other activities on the farm.

TNT Athletic Performance TNT Phoenix Basketball Camp

CONTACT: 343-7397, www.tntathletics.com/camps.php AGES: 5th-12th Grade COST: $125 early registration by June 1st, $150 June 2nd or later DATES: June 16th, 17th, 18th, & 19th DESCRIPTION: Join Professional Tyler Newton and the TNT Phoenix coaching staff in learning the fundamentals of basketball, including shooting, ball-handling, passing, defense, and teamwork. This high-intensity, team atmosphere will allow your child to

develop training habits used by professional and collegiate basketball players worldwide.

Additional instruction will also include speed, agility, and body awareness training with the TNT Athletic Performance strength & conditioning coaches teaching your athlete to run faster, jump higher, and increase his/her athleticism. Camp includes: Camp T-Shirt, Final Day Snack & Nutritional One-Sheet, TNT Water Bottle.

Valene L. Smith Museum of Anthropology Anthropology Museum Summer Camp CONTACT: 898.5397, www.csuchico.edu/anthmuseum AGES: 5-11 years COST: $75 per weekly session DATES: June 30th-July 24th DESCRIPTION: Choose from brand new themes! Week I: Explore Fantasy Worldspick one or all three-$25 each. Mon. is Harry Potter/ Tues. is Dr. Who/ Wed. is Pirates of Caribbean. Week II: Shipwreck ArchaeologyHow do archaeologists explore underwater?

Find out about famous shipwrecks. Week III: Cosmic Volcanoes-Volcanoes are essential to life on Earth. Discover the most active volcano in our solar system. Week IV: Jungle Safari Explore jungle ecosystems around the world.

YMCA Day Camp

CONTACT: 533-9622, www.ymcasuperiorcal.org AGES: 4-12 years COST: $125 weekly or $875 Full Summer DATES: June 9th to August 12th DESCRIPTION: Our summer Day Camp provides an exciting, safe environment for kids to have an unforgettable summer of fun. And while they’re taking part in unique experiences and adventures, they’re also building self-esteem, developing interpersonal skills and making lasting friendships. They will also enjoy swimming, sports, performing arts, weekly field trips and so much more.

Wood Family Farm Wood Family Farm Camp

CONTACT: 343-7120, www.WoodFamilyFarm.net, AGES: Preschool - 10 years COST: $125.00 DATES: June 9th through week of Aug. 18th.

DESCRIPTION: Wood Family Farm is passionate about providing hands on experiences that connect Chico area kids with the world around them. Our nature-based summer adventure camps include: “Life on the Farm,” “Woodworking-Habitats,” “Farm to Table Cooking,” “Messy Art,” camps and more. Children will care for our various farm animals, tend to large organic garden, cook fresh healthy food, and enjoy creative art projects as we play and learn together at Wood Family Farm-a place to grow. Camps held M-F 8:30-12:00 noon.

growing up paradise www.growingupchico.com

Paradise

Paradise Elementary Club members Taylore, Briana and Natalie volunteering during Gold Nugget Days.

The Boys & Girls Clubs of Paradise Ridge was founded in 1995 by a wonderful group of community members. The first Club opened its doors at 6241 Skyway in November, 1998 with just four initial members, but that quickly grew to about 65 youth a day. Today, the Boys & Girls Clubs of the Paradise Ridge has grown to five Club sites, and serves more than 900 youth, ages 6 to 18, every day after school.

Our local Boys & Girls Clubs are at the forefront of youth development in after-school and teen services. Our mission is to inspire and enable all youth to reach their full potential as productive, responsible and caring citizens. We have become a trusted place for families in need. Schools, law enforcement, service groups, other agencies, and community members regularly call upon on the Boys & Girls Club to help with projects, volunteering, or assisting a child in crisis. Club staff members work in direct partnership with the Paradise Unified School District to support local youth during the school day through the RISE, SOS and SAGE programs. These opportunities help give local kids the guidance and support they need to be great.

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Paradise Teen Center – (530) 872-3662 Paradise Intermediate School Club Site – (530) 877-7132 Paradise Elementary School Club Site – (530) 872-1502 Ponderosa Elementary School Club Site – (530) 872-0562 Pine Ridge School Club Site – (530) 873-2437

SUMMER PROGRAMS:

The end of the school year is quickly approaching, and the Boys & Girls Clubs of the Paradise Ridge has some exciting opportunities to give local kids a safe place to be and learn during the summer months.

Camp Quest

Camp Quest is a 9-week summer day camp program for youth ages 6-12. The Camp runs June 9 – August 8 at the Ponderosa Elementary School Club site. Youth do not need to be current Boys & Girls Club members to enroll. Each week, campers will embark on a new story filled with adventure, arts and crafts,

sports, science projects, and more! Featured field trips include: the Sacramento Zoo, Gateway Science Museum, Bidwell Park/ One Mile Pool, the Paradise Bowling Alley, Paradise Cinema 7, and Paradise Aquatic Center.

Camp hours are Monday through Friday from 9 AM to 5:30 PM. The cost for one week of camp is just $85, making this the most affordable summer camp in the North Valley. Extended care is also available from 7:30 to 9:30 AM for an additional $15 per week. Camp Quest accepts funding from all childcare funding agencies, such as Valley Oak Children’s Services, and flexible payment plans are also available.

Camp Quest is sure to provide an unforgettable summer camp experience for young people on the Ridge. For more information regarding Camp Quest, please contact Brittany McElroy, Camp Coordinator, at (530) 873-2437.

Paradise Teen Center Summer Program

For Ridge youth ages 13-18, the Paradise Teen Center will offer relevant and fun activities Monday through Friday from 12 to 5 PM during the summer months. Teens can expect to fill their days with camping, swimming, college tours, Art Institute, tai chi, and leadership and volunteer opportunities. Teens will also be served lunch and supper every day. To participate in all the fun, youth simply need to become Club members. Membership is just $15 and is valid until June 2015. The Paradise Teen Center is located at 6241 Skyway. For more information, please contact Hoppie Campos at the Paradise Teen Center or at (530) 872-3662.

HOW YOU CAN SUPPORT:

The Boys & Girls Club is only as strong as our community – we rely on your support to make sure our kids have a safe place to learn and grow and achieve their goals every day. Thank you to all who have made an investment in our programs and supporting the Boys & Girls Club in building local kids’ futures.

To make a donation to the Boys & Girls Club today, please call the Main Office at (530) 899-0335, or visit us online at www.bgcnv.org.

growing up oroville

Outdoor Summer Fun So many fun things to do, and in your own backyard!

Oroville Oroville YMCA’s Fit-n-Fun Day

www.growingupchico.com

&

The 3rd Annual Oroville 5K River-Run The City of Oroville & the Oroville YMCA are sponsoring the 3rd annual 5K River-Run at the Oroville Forebay Aquatic Center. The event takes place on May 17th from 8am to 2pm at the North Forebay, Hwy 70 at the Garden Drive Exit. The run/walk will feature an invigorating course that is professional managed by Under the Sun Events.

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During and after the 5K River-Run, the Oroville YMCA is hosting its annual Fit-n-Fun day from 8:00a.m. to 2:00p.m. Have your family enjoy many activity booths that include water games; kayaking; fishing simulator, obstacle course; crafts; animals to pet; and much more.

Each child will get a passport to get stamped at every station. Children that complete the passport will get a prize!

Parking and access to Fit-n-Fun Day and activity booths are free!

There is a fee for the 5k race. Kids rates are available. Register for race at www.RunSignUp.com or go to www.UnderTheSunEvents.org.

For more information about this event and other YMCA programs, call 533YMCA (9622); or visit them at the corner of Oak and Robinson Street in downtown Oroville.

Photo Courtesy of Greg Holman

W

ith the summer season upon us, it is time to start filling our calendars with all kinds of relaxing and entertaining things to do. Look no further than our local Oroville community for recreational ideas perfect for the summer season!

Camping is an activity many families enjoy when the weather turns warm. There is nothing better than sitting around a campfire on a warm summer evening, roasting marshmallows and sharing good conversation with friends. This traditional summer pasttime can be even more enjoyable if you do not have to drive far to get to your camping destination. Oroville’s local campgrounds offer beautiful mountain scenery, opportunities for water sports, hiking as well as many other desirable summer activities.

Lake Oroville, the largest man-made, earth-filled dam in the country, rising an amazing 770 feet above the stream bed of the Feather River, offers a wide variety of possibilities for summer fun. Many campgrounds can be accessed by the public on Lake Oroville, such as: • • • • • • • • • •

Kelly Ridge Recreation Area: Visitor center & boat ramp Bidwell Canyon Recreation Area: Campgrounds and marina Loafer Creek Recreation Area: Campground, picnic area, boat ramp Spillway Marina Recreation Area: Boat launching area Foreman Creek Recreation Area: Boat-in campground, boat ramp Bloomer Primitive Recreation Area: Boat-in campgrounds Goat Ranch Recreation Area: Campground, boat ramp Craig Saddle Recreation Area: Campground, boat-in campground Thermalito Forebay: Boat ramp, beautiful park-like picnic area Lime Saddle Recreation Area: Picnic area, campground, and boat ramp/marina

Lake Oroville also offers many opportunities for hiking, water sports and other enjoyable activities. At the Lake Oroville Visitor Center, you can learn about the fascinating history of Lake Oroville and the Lake Oroville State Recreation Area. The visitor center also offers exhibits educating about the history of the California water projects, the Maidu Indians, local wildlife and more. The 47-foot tower at the visitor’s center boasts two high-powered telescopes, offering spectacular views of the lake, the Sierra Nevada valley, foothills, and the smallest mountain range in the world: the Sutter Buttes mountain range.

Bird and animal watching are a few of the other activities that can be enjoyed right in our own backyard all summer long. Home to over 150 species of birds, the 5,700-acre wildlife preserve along 12 miles of the Feather River, just east of the Afterbay, is very popular for bird watching.

Fishing is excellent in many local areas. Lake Oroville is an ideal location available for excellent fishing experiences.

Hiking can be enjoyed locally as well. Scenic Table Mountain is a beautiful location for hiking, picnics and kite-flying. Bald Rock, a 1-mile hike outside of Oroville, is a short-yetrewarding one, offering impressive views of Lake Oroville and the towering Bald Rock.

Clearly, Oroville offers extensive opportunities for summer fun right in our own backyards. Growing Up Chico would like to challenge readers to get out and enjoy at least one new activity available locally this summer. For more information, visit http://www. parks.ca.gov/default.asp?page_id=462 or http://www.lakeoroville.water.ca.gov/recreate/.

Photo Courtesy of Oroville Area Chamber of Commerce

MOPS Chico: MOPS

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at Grace Community Church support group for mothers of children 0-preschool just like you! Meets 1st and 3rd Tuesdays September-May, call for more information 343-5528. Free Childcare.

Chico Creek Nature Center:

Bidwell Park was made for exploring and having fun. The Chico Creek Nature Center offers kids of all ages a place to interact with animals, nature, discover Bidwell Park’s diverse ecosystem and learn about preserving this natural resource. Open Wednesday through Sunday from 11am-4pm. 1968 East 8th Street, 891-4671, bidwellpark.org.

Check out all the great things we have to look forward to this Summer! Please note that dates and times are subject to change. Please call ahead to confirm events.

Ongoing Events Gateway Science Museum:

Come explore the Gateway. Many hands on exhibits for kids and families of all ages. Open Wed through Sun noon to 5pm. For more information call 898-4121 or visit www.csuchico.edu/gateway.

www.growingupchico.com www.growingupchico.com

Rowell’s Pals Playgroup:

A diverse playgroup for parents & little ones ages 1-5, of all abilities. Come sing, dance, read & play. 10-11am, Fridays. Free, pre-reg encouraged. Rowell Family Empowerment of N. CA, 3075 Cohasset Rd., #2. 8998801.

Childbirth Preparation: 5-week series taught by highly trained registered nurse

instructors will help prepare you for birth, newborn care & breastfeeding. Promotes individual & family choices, including natural breathing & relaxation techniques & pain management options. Wednesday evenings, 6-8:30pm. On-going. Pre registration with payment required. Call 332-3970 for more information or to register.

Chico Museum:

Pregnancy Education Series:

Open Wednesday - Sunday, noon to 4pm; donations gladly appreciated. Located at Second and Salem Streets, Downtown Chico. Phone 8914336, or visit www.chicomuseum.org.

Fantastic Fridays:

Athletic Horizons has the ultimate playgroup! Takes place on the 1st and 3rd Friday of the month. All children walking to 5 years old. Contact for more information 893-4967 or www.athletichorizons.com.

Kids Night Out: Fridays at In Motion Fitness from 5:30-9:30. Each night includes dinner and an exciting activity. Must pre-register. Call 895-kids or visit www.inmotionfitness.net to find out more.

This four-week childbirth education series is designed to prepare expectant women and their support person for their childbirth experience. We recommend that you choose to attend a session that ends one month before your baby is due. Call 876-2518 to register or go to www.frhosp.org for more information.

Enloe’s Mother and Baby Education Center: Offers ongoing before baby classes, after baby classes as well as safety classes. Call 332-3970 to register or go to www.enloe.org, click on Mother and Baby Care Center for more information.

MOMS: (Making Our Mothering Significant) is a group of moms who get together

Cleveland Ave. This event is a certified farmers’ market as well as a health forum, and it takes place all year. For more information call 624-8844 or visit www.cChaos.org.

to share the joys and challenges of motherhood. Every mom needs a community that will encourage and support her. 1193 Filbert Ave, on the 1st and 3rd Thursday of each month at 9am, from September through May. Child care is provided. First meeting is free! Contact EVFree Church for more information: 343-6022.

Family Swim: Our 90 degree indoor pool is always comfortable any time of year.

Chico Art School:

Chico Air Museum:

The Chico Air Museum is located at the Chico Municipal Airport. This museum features air exhibits that are fun for the whole family! Open every Saturday from 10am-4pm. FREE! 147 Convair Court, 345-6468.

Book Family Farm:

Home Depot Kids Workshops: Chico & Oroville. Hands-on building workshop

Open Playgroup:

Chapman Food And Fitness Festival: Every Friday from 2–5:30p.m. at 1010

Our Family swim is open to anyone (no membership required) on Fridays from 5-8 pm. Cost is just $2 per person. For more information contact Chico Water Sprites at 342-2999 or visit www.chicowatersprites.com.

for ages 5-12. Saturdays, 9am-12pm. Free. Chico: 342-0477; Oroville: 538-0521.

Lowe’s Build and Grow Workshops:

Free kids clinic every Saturday at 10am. Must pre register at, www.lowesbuildandgrow.com.

Butte County Library:

Summer Reading Program! Preschool Storytime for 3-5 years, stories, songs & craft Tues-10am and 11am, Babies Love Books 0-18 mos. stories, songs & bounces Wed-9:30am and 10:30am, Toddler Story time for 1-3 years stories, songs & action rhymes Fri-10am and 11am, Please call for more information on Japanese Story time, Spanish Story time, Chinese Story time, and Chess Club. 891-2762, www.buttecounty.net/library.

growing up chico magazine growing growin up up chico chico magazine magazine

La Leche League offers mother-to-mother support for breastfeeding. Children welcome. First Friday of every month, 10am-11:30am. Free. Find them on Facebook to find support between meetings. Bidwell Presbyterian Church in the Church nursery, 208 West First St. 591-9191. Another group meets the third Tuesday of each month from 10-11:30.

Meetings are held in private homes and locations change periodically. Please call 514-1313 for Tuesday meeting information.

Take advantage of all the wonderful produce grown locally at Chico’s year round Farmers’ Market. Every Saturday from 7:30am-1pm, rain or shine. Located at 2nd and Wall St parking lot.

Chico Certified Farmers’ Market-Saturdays:

Free Tennis Clinic:

Held every Saturday at the Chico Racquet Club at 10am, open to all ages. 1629 Manzanita Ave, 895-1881.

Sunny Garden Montessori Mommy and Me Playgroups:

An ongoing weekly PLAYGROUP for children and their parents. Children will be introduced to stimulating toys and activities; all guided by their parent! Please call 343-3101 for more information or visit www.sunnygardenmontessori.com.

Sliver Dollar BMX: First race is FREE for those looking to try something new here

in Chico! We have racers as young as 3 years old-all ages are welcome! Practice/ racing every Tuesday, Thursday and Sunday, weather permitting. “Like” us on Facebook www.facebook.com/sdbmx to receive current track updates.

Roo’s Zoo Skate Session at Cal Skate:

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La Leche League Breastfeeding Support Group:

Join Roller-Roo for this specially designed session for kids 10 & under–strollers welcome. 10am-12pm. $5.50/child, includes quad skate rental (parents skate for $2.75); or $25/6-weeks. 343-1601.

Classes in painting and drawing for ages 7+. All levels.

Monday-Saturday. Email for homeschool, after school and adult class availability. $25 per class-1 1/2 hr. Janet@chicoartschool.com or find them on Facebook: www. facebook.com/ChicoArtSchoolandGallery.

Fun, Educational, Year Round Field Trips & Tours, and Grass-Fed Meats. For up to date info “like us” on Facebook. bookfamilyfarm.net, bookfamilyfarm@gmail.com.

Held at Discovery Place Child Development Center every the second and forth Friday from 9:30 to 11:30. Please contact for dates. 899-8168, www.discoveryplacechico.com.

Chico Yo Yo Club: Come learn new tricks, show off your skill, & win great prizes.

Bird in Hand in Downtown Chico. Every Saturday at noon. 893-0545.

Barnes & Noble Storytime:

Held weekly on Wednesdays at 11am and Saturdays at 2pm in the children’s book section. Every 3rd Friday join them for American Girls Club at 7pm. Call 894-1494 for more info.

Chico Dojo: Kids Karate classes for kids 3 and up. 30 years of teaching experience.

Classes include: All Belts Kids Karate, Adults All Belt Karate, Kabudo (Weapons Training), and Advanced Karate. Please call 898-9753 or go to www.chicodojo.com.

Thursday Night Farmers Market:

Explore Downtown Chico’s Thursday Night Market Weekly, April 3rd through September 25th, 2014~ 6-9pm on Broadway from 2nd to 5th Street. Farm-fresh produce, delicious food, arts and crafts, and live entertainment! Located on Broadway from 2nd to 5th Streets, the area is closed to vehicle traffic to allow for the festivities. Authentic crafts and artwork, handmade clothing and jewelry, mouth-watering foods, personal services and community organizations are just some of what you’ll find. Plus, certified farmers offer the season’s freshest assortments of fruits & vegetables, flowers, nuts & honeys, and more. A diverse selection of local musicians and entertainers showcase their talents each week. www.downtownchico.com.

Museum of Northern California Art (MONCA)

The Museum of Northern California Art (monca) opens the door to world-class art works for everyone. The mission of the Museum is to make art accessible and promote awareness of northern California artists through collections, exhibitions, and

educational programs. www.monca.org

Chico Doula Circle:

Hosts free public workshops twice a month giving you the opportunity to meet the doulas and receive information tailored to your needs. 1st Thursday, 7-8pm. 3rd Sunday 2-3pm. www.chicodoulacircle.com, 518-0421.

Jazzercise:

FREE Childcare! Contact for more details and class times. 896-9743, www.jazzercise.com.

Patrick Ranch Museum: The Patrick Ranch Museum is open on Saturdays for tours

of Glenwood Farm house. Visitors can take a tour of the ranch. Visit the chickens and see the variety of birds. Tours from 11am-3pm. See online for upcoming events on Saturdays at www/patrickranchmuseum.org or call 342-4359. The cost is $5.00 per person or children 5 years and under are free.

Friday Night Concerts:

A summertime tradition in Downtown Chico, City Plaza.

For 36 years, the Friday Night Concerts have been a favorite summertime tradition Held weekly, the Friday Night Concerts are Chico’s best place to hear live, local music for free.

Located in City Plaza, in the heart of downtown, the concerts offer entertainment to suit every musical preference - styles range from blues to swing and from Classic rock to reggae. Visit www.downtownchico.com for times and a full list of performers.

May Pioneer Day Parade Saturday, May 3rd

The Pioneer Day Parade is a continuation of a great Chico tradition dating back to around 1915. The Pioneer Day Parade is meant to bring the Chico Community together to celebrate the diversity of people and cultures that make up our Northern California service area. Downtown Chico, www.pioneerdayparade.com.

Iron Canyon Hike Saturday, May 3rd

Join Naturalist Jon Aull for a walk along the rim of the spectacular basalt canyon that runs from Bear Hole east past the boundary of the Park. For most people the most impressive part of the Park, this part of the Yahi Trail offers views down the steep canyon walls to the wild part of Big Chico Creek, where endangered spring run salmon spend the summer before spawning. Turkey vultures and raptors soar at eye level and seep springs create conditions for a variety of plant life. Take advantage of an open gate day to take an easy 1-2 mile hike in one of the most extraordinary places in Northern California. Call for reservations. Meet at Diversion Dam Parking Lot (L). Heavy rain and/or road closure cancels hike. 10am.

43rd Annual Chico Artesian’s Faire Saturday, May 3rd

Don’t miss this highly anticipated, free, annual event featuring entertainment, fine arts and hand-crafted wares. 10am-5pm in the downtown city plaza.

Bidwell Bar Day Saturday, May 3rd

Experience Pioneer Fun for the whole family FREE! Celebrate the gold rush, with docents in Period dress. 12:00 Noon to 4:00 PM. At the old Toll House & Suspension Bridge (Entrance past the Bidwell Canyon campgrounds). In case of rain the event will be at Lake Oroville State Park Visitor Center.

Endangered Species Faire Saturday, May 3rd 10am-4pm Cedar Grove, Bidwell Park. 891-6424.

Spring 2014 Girls on the Run 5K Saturday, May 3rd

Open to the public! This event serves as the the celebratory run of the spring Girls on the Run (GOTR) and Girls on Track (GOT) programs in Butte County. It is also a wonderful fundraising event to support GOTR. For many of our 8-12 year old participants this is their first 5K. We hope you and your family will join us!! www.gotrbuttecounty.org.

Celebrating Mother’s Day at the Patrick Ranch Museum Saturday, May 3rd

We will have watercolor instruction and decorate Mother’s Day Cards with mother and children. We will create mothers day poems and the history of the lifestyle of mother and children living on the ranch in the past will be discussed. Ranch tours will be provided by volunteers. A mini gift shop will be open in Pat’s Barn and stop and visit the Midway Cafe for that special family lunch. For more information call 342-4359 or visit www. patrickranchmuseum.

Spring Fishing Derby Saturday, May 3rd

Spring Fishing Derby 9:30-11:30am. Aquatic Park in Paradise. 872-6393

Aladdin Jr. Wednesday, May 7th

All of your favorite characters are here in Disney’s “Aladdin JR.,” a stage adaptation of the hit Disney film, along with well-known, Academy Award-winning songs including “A Whole New World” and “Friend Like Me.” Filled with magic, mayhem, and flying carpet rides, your spirits will soar and your toes will tap as the talented young performers of Playhouse Youth Theatre perform this beloved tale. Laxson Auditorium, 7:30 for tickets or more information call 898-6333 or go to www.chicoperformances.com.

Children’s Choir of Chico Annual Spring Concert Friday, May 9th

A Grand Night For Singing: From Opera to Broadway. 7:30pm. Faith Lutheran Church 667 East First Avenue, Chico. The 2014 gala spring concert is a celebration of dramatic vocal performance–from Opera to Broadway!

Introduction to Young Living Essential Oils Friday, May 9th

Every day we inhale, touch, and taste harmful toxins and chemicals. Synthetic ingredients are in virtually every item in the home, from cleaning and personal care products, to food additives. Join us for an unforgettable experience and learn how Young Living Essential Oils could be the missing link in creating optimum health and wellness in your everyday life! Free class held at Apple Blossom Baby, 1372 Longfellow Ave, Chico, 10:30am.

Friends, family and children welcome. No sales pitch, just information, relaxation and fun! For more information please email: thisoilylife@yahoo.com or visit www.facebook. com/thisoilylife.

ARTabout Friday, May 9th 2nd Friday ARTabout … SOPO Neighborhood, 5-8 p.m. 318-2105.

Shower the Shelter-Donation Drive Drop-off and Foster Open House Saturday, May 10th

Kitten Season is coming, and Butte Humane Society is asking for the community’s help in preparing for the hundreds of kittens we will receive this spring and summer. Collect supplies for our foster program and drop it off at the event, and/or come meet BHS staff and find out more about becoming a foster volunteer at our Foster Open House.

For more information on the foster program and a link to our foster wish list, visit buttehumane.org/foster. 12pm to 4pm @ Butte Humane Society Cat Adoption Center, 587 Country Drive, Chico.

Paradise Chocolate Fest Saturday, May 10th

Chocolate Fest 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Terry Ashe Park. Call 342-4896 for more info.

Beautiful Butterflies Preschool Program Saturday, May 10th

Spring in Bidwell Park means a profusion of butterflies and caterpillars. We’ll learn about the amazing life cycle of the butterfly and go for a walk to look for residents like the Pipevine Swallowtail Butterfly and their caterpillars. We’ll meet an animal friend and make our very own butterfly to take home. Perfect for ages 3 to 5 years old. Call 8914671 to register.

Spring Bloom Saturday, May 10th

Lucero Olive Oil is proud to announce their 4th Annual Spring Bloom Event from 11am5pm. Come out and celebrate the olive bloom with a picnic and a tour of the groves guided by Dewey and Bobby Lucero. In addition to our heritage grove tours, there will be a wine garden, kid’s zone, live entertainment, a mother’s day raffle, and marketplace and food vendors. Location: 2120 Loleta Ave Corning.

Chico Antiques & Design Faire Saturday, May 10th

8-5 p.m. at Patrick Ranch. For more info please call 893-5534.

Buddy Walk Saturday, May 17th

This will be the 1st Annual Chico Buddy Walk, a walk organized through the NDSS to support and celebrate people in our community with Down syndrome. Come join us for the namesake walk around lower Bidwell Park and also enjoy great food, vendors and music by Matt Clough and the Cloud Nines. Register to walk on eventbrite and look us up on Facebook for more information!

YMCA Fit and Fun Day Saturday, May 17th

YMCA’s Fit-n-Fun Day & 5K Run 8 a.m.-2 p.m. at Forebay. 533-9622.

Butterflies from A to Z Lecture & Hike

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Saturday, May 17th

Join us to learn all about butterflies from A to Z! We will have a short lecture and then hike around the Nature Center in search of butterflies. Perfect for all ages. Call 891-4671 to register!

Anderson Century Saturday, May 17th

Tenth Annual Anderson Century bicycle ride being held annually with routes of 100, 60, 40 and 25 miles. Starts and stops at Anderson River Park along the Sacramento River. Online registrations at andersoncentury.com. Limited to 1,000 riders.

Introduction to Young Living Essential Oils Saturday, May 17th

Free class held at Apple Blossom Baby, 1372 Longfellow Ave, Chico, 11:30am. Friends, family and children welcome. For more information please email: thisoilylife@yahoo. com or visit www.facebook.com/thisoilylife

Silver Dollar Fair – “Barnyard Bash” Thursday, May 22nd-Monday, May 26th

The fair is the largest event held in the North State and features some of the most well-known musical acts available. Grandstand events will feature X-treme Motocross on Friday, 200 Lap Enduro Race on Saturday, the Civil War Series Sprint Car Races on Sunday and the high-energy, high-impact Demolition Derby on Monday night. www. silverdollarfair.org.

www.growingupchico.com www.growingupchico.com

Crazy Creek Day Camp Monday, May 26th

Join Chico Creek Nature Center Day Camps while schools out! Register online at www.bidwellpark.org or by calling 891-4671. 7:45am-5:30pm, half and full day options available. Camp Chico Creek is an environmental education-based day camp for children 5 to 11 years old. The programs are designed to provide outdoor recreation activities and foster awareness of nature in a fun, safe, and caring setting.

Themes covering Park habitats and their natural and cultural histories are presented to the campers during each session. We have trained staff and interns that promote fairness and encourage a spirit of cooperation in play.

Lavender Festival Saturday, May 31st

The Country Faire and Threshing Bee will take place at the Patrick Ranch Museum two miles south of Chico at 10381 Midway, Durham. The event runs from 9-4 on both Saturday and Sunday. Admission is $8 per day, children 5 & under free. The Threshing Bee is presented in conjunction with the Vintage Iron Early Day Gas Engine & Tractor Association and the Golden State Draft Horse and Mule Club with the support of many other individuals and public service organizations.

52nd Annual Community BBQ Cook-Off! Thursday, June 12th

Get ready for an evening of competition, great food, and entertainment! This year, we’ll be celebrating a “farm to grill” theme with our professional and backyard teams preparing tri tip with locally grown ingredients. For tickets, exhibit booths, and sponsorship information please call the Chico Chamber at 891.5556 or visit chicochamber.com. C’mon Chico, let’s get grillin’!

Links Fore Kids Golf Tournament Saturday, June 16th

Held at Butte Creek Country Club, a fundraiser for the Boys & Girls Club of the North Valley. Please go to www.bgcnv.org/links-fore-kids.html view the schedule of events and for more info.

Introduction to Young Living Essential Oils Saturday, June 21st

Free class held at Apple Blossom Baby, 1372 Longfellow Ave, Chico, 11am. Friends, family and children welcome. No sales pitch, just information, relaxation and fun! For more information please email: thisoilylife@yahoo.com or visit www.facebook.com/ thisoilylife.

July 4th of July Celebration Friday, July 4th 4th of July Celebration 7:30am.-3 p.m, Bidwell Park-1 Mile Area. 343-6055.

Hooked On Fishing Saturday, May 31st

Lake Oroville Fireworks Friday, July 4th

June

A Country Picnic at the Ranch Sunday, June 1st

4:00 p.m.-8:00 p.m. 12th Annual Country Supper. Please join us for a barbeque, Shubert’s Ice Cream, music, raffle, kids activities and family fun at the Patrick Ranch Museum, 1038 Midway. A fundraiser for the Chico Museum. Come for a good time and help to support quality exhibits and programing for all ages at the Chico Museum!

Make reservations at Lyons Books, at the Chico Museum during business hours (12-4 Wed-Sun), or on-line at www.chicomuseum.org.

Introduction to Young Living Essential Oils Wednesday, June 4th

growingup upchico chicomagazine magazine growing

12th Annual Threshing Bee Saturday and Sunday, June 7th & 8th

Step into the gardens, bask in the timeless beauty of Mother Nature with Lavender Ranch™ products. We invite you to experience the Real Essences from Mother Nature that Lavender Ranch™ is committed to delivering. Tours and more! 9:30am to 3pm.

10am tour the Botanical Fields, 11am Botanical distillation, 12pm Catered Lunch from NorCal catering from Chico, 1pm lots of sales for shopping. Please go to www.

LavenderRanch.com or call 868-5151 for more info.

Hooked on Fishing at Bedrock Park in Oroville. Call 538-2542, starts at 8am.

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Wyandotte Road.

Free class held at Apple Blossom Baby, 1372 Longfellow Ave, Chico, 3pm. Friends, family and children welcome. For more information please email: thisoilylife@yahoo. com or visit www.facebook.com/thisoilylife.

Summer Sun Day Camp Friday, June 6th

Camp Chico Creek is an environmental education-based day camp for children 5 to 11 years old. The programs are designed to provide outdoor recreation activities and foster awareness of nature in a fun, safe, and caring setting. Themes covering Park habitats and their natural and cultural histories are presented to the campers during each session. We have trained staff and interns that promote fairness and encourage a spirit of cooperation in play. Held from 7:45-5:30pm, half and full day options. Go to www.bidwellpark.org or call 891-4671 to register.

Oroville Food Truck Fest - A fundraiser for the Boys & Girls Club Saturday, June 7th

This unique event will feature tastings from a variety of local food trucks, live music, and raffle and door prizes. Awards will be given for “Best Food Truck” and “People’s Choice” food truck. Tasting Tickets are $10 per person or just $35 for a family of 4!

From 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. at the Oroville Teen Center located at 2959 Lower

Point Race & Fireworks Friday, July 4th

Point Race & Fireworks, 6 p.m. Silver Dollar Speedway. Call 891-6535.

Fireworks 9:30 p.m. at Lake Oroville. For more info please call 538-2542.

Slice of Chico Saturday, July 12th

Downtown Chico’s merchants invite the community downtown for a day filled with great shopping, hot prices and FREE slices of ice-cold watermelon. Known throughout the community as a summertime tradition, Slice of Chico draws thousands into downtown for some refreshment and good, old-fashioned customer service! Early Birds shop Friday too! www.downtownchico.com.

Introduction to Young Living Essential Oils Saturday, July 12th

Free class held at Apple Blossom Baby, 1372 Longfellow Ave, Chico, 3pm. Friends, family and children welcome. No sales pitch, just information, relaxation and fun! For more information please email: thisoilylife@yahoo.com or visit www.facebook.com/ thisoilylife.

Growing Up Chico Night July 17th

Join us for our 3rd Annual Growing Up Chico Night! Fun for the whole family, there will be music and dance performances plus many booths from local family friendly businesses. We hope to see you there! Downtown City Plaza from 6-9pm.

Looking for the Local Resources section?

Our local resource listings have moved. Please check out our website for a full listing of local family friendly resources.

www.growingupchico.com

Join us for the

Growing Up 6-9 pm

Chico

Thurs

Night

FREE activities for kids Resourceful information for parents Enjoy music and dance performances

Downtown City Plaza Mark your calendars for this fun ďŹ lled evening!

We hope to see you there!!

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P re s c h o ol & C hildc are Direc tory Center

Ages

Hours

Curriculum

Contact

Chico Montessori Children’s House

2.9-5 years

8:30am-5:30pm Monday-Friday

814 Glenn St. Chico, CA 95928 342-5518 www.chicomontessori.com

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Creative Outlets In-Home Preschool

2-6 years

8:30am-1:30pm Monday-Thursday

The goal of the Montessori approach is to help the child acquire the confidence and motivation he or she needs to fulfill his or her best potential. This is done by providing an environment with activities that fit the child’s individual needs, builds his/her interests, and nurtures his/her enthusiasm.

892-8069 funnyfaces@digitalpath.net www.facebook.com/creativeoutlets

D L T S

Dragonfly Playschool

2.5-5 years

8am-12noon Monday-Friday

Creative Outlets offers a true preschool experience with the benefits of a loving, in-home setting. The owner has 20 years of experience and a degree in child development.

The program focuses on teaching kinder readiness and is tailored to the needs of each student. It incorporates Math, Science & Pre-Reading utilizing Zoo Phonics, cooking & gardening. Children learn through play, music & art while providing a safe & exciting place to learn & grow.

Exploration/personal growth on an individual basis is encouraged. Nutritional snack & lunch is provided.

864-5916 www.dragonflyplayschool.com

D T L S

Kidspark

2-12 years

Drop in childcare, affordable hourly rates. The preschool curriculum is offered from 9:00am-11:30am. Our 4 and 5 year old class is held on Monday/Wednesday/Friday and our 2 and 3 year old class is held on Tuesday/Thursday.

2477 Forest Ave. Chico, CA 94928 894-6800 www.kidspark.com

La Casita Primera Preschool

2.9-5 years

M-Th: 8am-10pm, Fri: 8am12midnight, Sat: 10am-mid, Sun:1pm-6pm

Dragonfly Playschool is an enriching play-centered program. It is designed to meet the expanding needs of young children in an intimate home-based setting.

Curriculum is designed to encourage children to be independent, creative, constructive and cooperative.

ECO-Healthy Certified, Organic meals and seasonal inspired lessons are created by a credentialed teacher.

Little Sprouts Preschool

2-5 years

7am-6pm Monday-Friday

Preschool Program offering Pre-K readiness, organic nutrition, bilingual enrichment, play, teacher and student directed activities, multi-age groups, gardening, art emphasis, and discovery with 1:6 teacher child ratios.

2035 Esplanade 343-3044 lacasitaprimera@att.net, http://www. lacasitaprimera.com/

D L A S Y

15 Overland Ct. Chico, CA 95928 345-0123 littlesproutspreschool1@gmail.com

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Parkside Daycare

0-9 years

6am-6pm Monday-Friday

1885 E. 8th St. Chico, CA 95928 893-5122 www.parksidedaycare.com

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Wood Family Farm

3-8 years

8:30am-5:30pm Monday-Friday

Come Discover with Us! We offer 4 preschool classes including a “Junior Kindergarten”. Daily enrichment classes include creative movement, Spanish, cooking, gardening, park walks (Bidwell Park is at our doorstep), and award winning Kindermusik and Zoo Phonics programs. Limited space for Fall enrollment...CALL TODAY!

343-7120 www.WoodFamilyFarm.net

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License # 045401420

License # 045405971

www.growingupchico.com www.growingupchico.com

License # 045405821

License # 045404701, 045404702

License # 045406027

License # 045405784

License # 045405614

38 38 growing chico magazine growinupup growing up chico chico magazine magazine

License# 045406227

8:30-11:30am & 1:00-4:00pm

ECO Green, organic gardening, recycling Kindergarten readiness program, Zoo Phonics. Into. to Spanish, French & Sign Language. Daily circle time and enrichment activities. Nutritious snacks and lunch included.

Hooray, let’s PLAY! We are committed to offering classic early childhood education in an alternative play-based format. We inspire learning through our Nature-based, tactile, interactive curriculum. Large organic garden, barn with animals... a place to grow.

D-Diapers L-Lunch P-Parent participation T-Traditional school year A-After-school program S-Summer program Y-Year round program

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Growing Up Chico’s Business Directory 2nd Time Around: Ampla Health: Apple Blossom Baby: BANC Home Loans: Barry Kirshner Wildlife Sanctuary: Best Fed Breastfeeding: Bidwell Rock N Roll: Butte County 211: Carrie Smith, MFT: Chico Bullpen Baseball Academy: Chico Chamber of Commerce: Chico Christian School: Chico Creek Dance Centre: Chico Creek Nature Center: Chico Dojo: Chico Doula Circle: Chico Massage Studio: Chico Montessori Children’s House: Chico Pediatric Dentistry:

Chico Performances: Chico Sports Club: Chico Youth Soccer League: Coco Gluten Free Baking Company: Creative Outlets Preschool: CRT Kids Youth Theater: Dignity Health, St. Elizabeth’s Community Hospital: Downtown Chico Business Association: Dr. Couk DDS: Dr. James Wood, M.D.: Dragonfly Playschool: Eco Community Seeds Magazine: Eco In Chico: Family Eye Care Optometry: Feather River Hospital: Feather River Recreation & Park District:

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Funny Faces Chico: Gateway Science Museum: HYPE Dance Studio: In Motion Fitness: Irlen Visions: Jolly Folly Entertainment: JEI Learning Center: Kids In Motion (In Motion Fitness): Kids Park: La Casita Primera Preschool: Lavender Ranch: Little Sprouts Preschool:

Mountain Circle Family Services: Neumann Construction: North Valley Eye Care: Paradise Connection: Parkside Daycare: Patrick Ranch Museum: Progressive Schoolhouse: PTL Pediatric Day Health Center: Rose Scott School: Snapshots Photobooth and Flipbooks: Stephanie Neumann, Realtor: Summit Funding: Sunny Garden Montessori: Sweet Repeats Chico: The Bicycle Wheel: The Creative Apple: Thrive Healthy Foods for Kids: Thrive Learning Center: Touch of Glass: Valley Oak Children’s Services: Watersprites Swim School: Wood Family Farm Preschool: Youthful Smiles Dentistry:

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