North State Parent
! s r a e Y 0 2 g n i t a Celebr er… And Growing Strong
Initiative, as well as growth in numbers of the region’s private and charter schools. Whether involved with schools or homeschoolers, NSP values teachers and strives to support education by being an outstanding resource. You’ll find teachers’ suggestions about what’s key for families incorporated into the magazine’s editorial pieces and its community outreach projects. The past two decades have seen a vast increase in the region’s parks and recreation opportunities, including improved biking, running and hiking trails, and two beautiful bridges built in Redding and Mt. Shasta that draw friends and family together for walks. There are expanded aquatic-related facilities and programs, and skateboard parks in all counties of the region. Winter recreation now includes a full-sized community-supported outdoor ice rink in Mt. Shasta, a smaller community ice rink opening in Paradise, and access to an array of snow sports activities. Volunteering has always been woven into the region’s development. “Parents and children who participate in the positive growth of their community are engaged in real-life learning experiences,” says Pam, who fondly recalls when her own children (now adults) collected coins during fundraising efforts for Mt. Shasta’s skateboard park. Her boys also helped build trails for improved hiking opportunities in Butte County, and helped build a children’s playground in Redding. Pam’s youngest, Eli, continues this tradition by helping improve mountain bike trails in Siskiyou County. Other positive changes in our local area include the construction of science centers in Shasta, Butte and Tehama counties, offering hands-on exploration and learning for all ages. Farmers markets (some year-round) offer healthy food choices, as do community-supported agriculture, community gar-
dens and harvest events. And the growth of North State Parent’s Going Places calendar is a testament to the expanded number of family-friendly activities, along with great “parents' night out” events, offered throughout the area! Businesses, and ways of doing business, have changed immensely over the past two decades. North State Parent has played a significant role in helping local businesses flourish by being the “go to” resource for readers to learn about summer camps, parent-owned businesses, community organizations, and the gamut of learning opportunities, including music and dance instruction, sewing and art classes, and tutoring. Supporting communities by supporting local businesses is something Pam is passionate about. She actively encourages NSP staff (and readers!) to patronize locally owned businesses and events, and she constantly seeks to promote local endeavors. “We have enjoyed watching many local children grow up in family-run businesses,” Pam reflects. As business owners retire to pursue different goals, NSP’s work with the next generation of younger families who purchase these businesses is exciting. This is an era offering many ways to connect through electronic devices linking technology with media, and it can be difficult to know the best way to market a business – that’s where the NSP team can offer experience and insight. As the North State continues to climb out of a recession, NSP has held steady with its mission of offering editorial that supports a healthy lifestyle for families and others working with children. In this, North State Parent is like an old friend, imparting a passion for positive change, and a deep appreciation for all who play a role in making Upper California such a remarkable place to live.
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North State Parent • Serving Upper California Since 1993
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North State Parent magazine is made up of a small, friendly staff of local parents who are busy raising kids (or enjoying grandkids) while at the same time playing a significant role in producing a publication of value to the community. Our staff consists primarily of parents and even some grandparents, with children ranging in age from 6 to 43. Many of us enjoy living with pets too … mostly dogs, cats and chickens!
Thanks to all who have played a role in making North State Parent the magazine it is today: our readers and advertisers (some who have been with the magazine since it began), writers, friends, family members and community partners. We are constantly pleased to meet new people who are equally dedicated to improving life in the North State. Your feedback is always welcome and helps us grow in ways to serve you better. Join us in celebrating our 20th anniversary at special events in the region throughout the coming year – check the Going Places calendar section for information.