Ridge Business Journal: Spring 2023

THE Ridge Business JouRnal

Councilman Crowder lobbies for FVT tax exemption in DC

By Steve Crowder Town of Paradise Councilman

On February 6th, 2023, I traveled to Washington DC to lobby for Congressmen LaMalfa’s and Thompson’s bill HR176 exempting Federal Income Tax on the Fire Victims Trust settlement.

I was privileged to go with a group called “After the Fire”, born out of the Sonoma fires, founded by Jennifer Gray Thompson. Thompson has been lobbying for fire survivors since the 2017 Sonoma fire. The delegation consisted of representatives from North Bay Fires, Tubbs Fire, Camp Fire, Dixie Fire, Marshall Fire (Superior Colorado 2021), Thomas Fire, the Woolsey Fires (both

Southern California), and Coffee Strong Founder (Tubbs Fire).

The group met Monday evening to work on gaining support for HR176 from two congresswomen’s staff, one congressman, and a senator from Colorado. The senator from Colorado was extremely interested in the bill, as the cause of their Marshall Fire was about to be released as human caused. They understood that they could be in the same position as the FVT with lawsuits and tax liability. I put LaMalfa’s Chief of Staff in contact with them and he sent them a complete copy of the proposed bill. It appears we will have their support.

Our next meetings were with Senator Feinstein’s staff, Senator Padilla’s staff,

Representatives Thompson, LaMalfa, the Senate Finance Committee, the Ways and Means Committee and the US Chamber of Commerce. In each meeting we described how important it was to the fire victims to get this bill passed, emphasizing that they were paying 30%

of their determination monies to an attorney and another 30% to the IRS. That does not leave much money to rebuild their lives.

We received a very positive reception

BILL HR176, continues on page A-21

PARADISE’S ANNUAL SPRING FESTIVALS ABOUND

Paradise Chocolate Fest returns to the Ridge on Saturday, May 13th at Terry Ashe Park

By Rachel Ostrander California Climate Action Fellow, Butte Fire Safe Council

Do you enjoy delicious food, live music, and cute goats? If so, The Butte County Fire Safe Council has the perfect event for you: The 2nd Annual Paradise Grazing Festival, Saturday, March 25th, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Terry Ashe Recreation Center in Paradise, and it’s free for everyone to attend.

In addition to being a fun day out for the whole family, the Grazing Festival serves an essential purpose - raising funds and support for Butte County grazing projects that promote wildfire safety in the region. By learning about how goats can help protect our communities from wildfires, you’ll appreciate the critical role these animals play in keeping us safe. Visit the goat photo booth to snap a selfie with a local grazer and stop by the goat petting zoo to feed some baby goats. Feeling competitive? Try your luck at the cornhole tournament or the goat vs. human watermelon-eating competition or bid on some fantastic items at the silent auction.

Food vendors and Sierra Nevada beverages

By Mark Thorp Executive Director, CEO

Join your Gold Nugget Museum and other Ridge community organizations for a family, fun filled Gold Nugget Days weekend, plus! Thursday through Sunday, April 27-30, 2023.

Gold Nugget Queen Contest

Thursday, April 27th the Gold Nugget Days Queen Contest and Revue. The 2023 Queen will be chosen from several worthy candidates. Activities begin 7:00 p.m. at the Paradise Performing Arts Center. The candidates will be judged on historical authenticity of costume, poise, personality, and portfolio. The 2023 Queen will be

By Debbie LaPlant Moseley Executive Director Youth in the Ridge Community Foundation Paradise Chocolate Fest

Ranked among the top festivals in the state, Paradise Chocolate Fest is ‘choc-full’ of all-day fun for the entire family.

Wow your taste buds at Chocolate Candy Land filled with chocolate delights and dip into decadence at the large chocolate fountain. Oozing with all things chocolate and sweet treats, booths are filled with delicacies, desserts, confections and scoops of yummy ice cream.

Join in the fun! Fest visitors are invited to enter the Fest’s famous Chocolate Cuisine Challenge or dive into the chocolate pie and ice cream eating contests or cookie stacking competition. Whether a spectator or participant, you won’t want to miss these epic battles.

A spectacular musical lineup includes Apologetiks, Big Mo & the Full Moon Band, Holly Taylor & Hot Flash and Whiskey River Band!

Young Fest visitors will have great fun visiting the Fest’s Kidz-Zone giant inflatables, carnival games, costumed characters, contests and much more fun.

Seen here is the “After Fire” delegation that visited Washing DC to lobby for fire victims tax exemption. Among them are Jennifer Gray Thompson, Kevin Goss, Steve Crowder, Congressman LaMalfa and delegates from multi fires in FVT and other representatives from Southern California and Colorado Fires.

Ready Raccoon cuddles one of the many goats you’ll see at the Fest.

The 2nd Annual Paradise Grazing Festival is an event not to be missed

Gold Nugget Days Inc., Gold Nugget and Depot Museums

Chamber celebrates strength in numbers

By Monica Nolan Executive Director, Paradise Ridge Chamber of Commerce

Last month, PRCoC’s Board of Directors took a leap of faith when they trusted me to engage the services of a wacky guy in a colorful suit to energize our membership and increase our numbers. (See related story page B-11.)

If I had told them that Your Chamber Connection’s co-owner, Jimmy Cusano, in wardrobe stolen from a Guys’n Dolls set, would be hurling pepperoni-flavored insults, making our board members do push-ups and the Caddy Shack dance while slandering of the sensitivity of Californians, I think they would have balked, at the very

least. You need a sense of humor for this job—fortunately, my Board has one.

Jimmy is a superstar in the industry, with performative communications talent matched only by a passion for the advancement of chambers of commerce. When not at work with PRCoC, Jimmy was out exploring the Ridge, speaking with business owners, and causing a sensation at Fastrip with his sartorial splendor.

Jimmy’s efforts and those of

Why don’t you join the Chamber?

You’re in luck! While the Chamber Board meets once a month, member and business events are non-mandatory ribbon cuttings, mixers and lunches—just the fun stuff! No roll call! We ask nothing of you except your nominal dues investment. Regardless of your participation, whether or not you ever attend a single event, participate in a single committee, or read a single piece of Chamber information, the Chamber is a force behind the quality of life in our community.

“I can’t afford it.”

Most members pay tax deductible dues of about $20 a month for the best marketing deal on the Ridge. All members appear in ParadiseChamber. com’s online business directory, which received 141,518 hits last year. Members also appear three

times per year in directories printed in the Ridge Business Journal and Ridge Rising Guide, and may provide submit for these publications. We also promote and facilitate member business celebrations, including ribbon cuttings.

The Chamber is not asking for a donation, but an investment. The IRS classifies Chamber membership as an ordinary and necessary business expense—part of any reputable company’s marketing budget.

“I did belong, but didn’t get anything out of it.”

The Chamber is a dynamic organization, changing with the needs of the business community. While our mission remains the same, our programs evolve. It is hard to measure the impact of the Chamber’s work on your bottom line, but that doesn’t mean that

46 volunteers garnered 120 new members—a gain of almost 35%. This gives the Chamber a financial boost, but more importantly, it amplifies our voice and provides more resources to support our mission.

With membership at a robust 460, we could not be more satisfied—or could we? In our follow-up and debrief, we asked about reasons for not joining, so that we could refine our “overcoming objections” pitch and so that I would have fodder for this column.

your business doesn’t benefit. Many of our members belong to the chamber because they believe in our work. Imagine what it would be like if there wasn’t an active pro-business organization to advocate on behalf of commerce and attract newcomers and visitors. Your immediate benefit may be hard to quantify, but most will see long-term gain as the Chamber brings people to town.

“I had a negative experience with PRCoC or another Chamber.”

With singular energy and style, Jimmy Cusano of Your Chamber Connection helped grow the Chamber to 460 members.

If you’ve seen one chamber, you’ve seen one chamber. Chambers are unique, flexible organizations adapting to emerging community needs. Our Board is available to speak with you and address any concerns or unmet expectations. Visit the “Board of Directors” page on ParadiseChamber.com for contact info.

“I don’t have time. I cannot attend meetings.”

TOWN OF PARADISE

A message from Paradise’s new mayor, Greg Bolin

It’s not always an easy task, but we are rewarded for our efforts by the natural beauty and warm community that surrounds us. You’ll soon see our business community is growing, with new infrastructure in the downtown providing the perfect location. Our arts scene is thriving, with the Paradise Art Center, Theatre on the Ridge, and Paradise Performing Arts Center.

By Greg Bolin Mayor Town of Paradise Owner, Trilogy Construction`

On behalf of the Town of Paradise, I want to extend a warm welcome to our returning residents, new residents, and visitors. We are happy to have you as part of our community.

Paradise is a wonderful place to live, work, and raise a family. For those of you who decided to come back or join us for the first time, you know we have a tremendous opportunity to rebuild our community from the ground up.

Individual Assistance FEMA Grants may be used to repair private roads

FEMA’s Individuals and Households Program Grants may be used to repair disaster-damaged privately-owned access roads and bridges. To qualify, the survivor must meet all the basic eligibility criteria outlined for the Individuals and Households Program. The survivor must also be the homeowner and the home must serve as the primary residence.

A FEMA inspection is necessary to determine if repairs are necessary for a vehicle to access the property. In addition, the applicant must meet at least one of the following conditions:

• No one can access the home due to damaged infrastructure

• The safety of the occupants could be adversely affected because emergency services vehicles, such as an ambulance or a fire truck, cannot reach the residence. However, this will only be considered if access was available before the disaster occurred.

When multiple households share a privately-owned access route, assistance is shared among applicants, requiring additional coordination and documentation between FEMA and each applicant.

We at the Town are working hard to recover and rebuild our resilient community. We are excited about the new projects happening in 2023, including the installation of the Early Warning System (sirens) in spring 2023, the repaving of 10 miles of public roads and the completion of the downtown Almond Street project with sidewalks, lighting, and landscaping. In addition, since 2019 our growing population of nearly 10,000 residents has rebuilt over 2,500 housing units.

Paradise is a special place. As a resident for more than 50 years, I’m proud to call Paradise my home. I hope you also find Paradise to be all its name implies.

“Alert Paradise” Early Warning System coming in April

By Jim Broshears

During the Long-Term Recovery Plan development process, communitywide meetings were held to determine priorities and projects to help Paradise recover from the Camp Fire. The top priority identified was to “Make Paradise Safer” and the most important project to accomplish that was an Early Warning System (EWS).

The Town was successful in receiving a FEMA Hazard Mitigation Grant to install a townwide EWS. An Early Warning System is an immediate, loud, and consistent way to notify residents

of any hazardous event in a timely manner via sirens, voice messages, text and more. The system is designed to be redundant, meaning there are multiple ways for residents to be notified in an emergency in case one or more methods of communication is impacted by the emergency itself.

The Town’s 21-tower siren/voice system is scheduled to be installed in April 2023 and will be operational for the upcoming fire season. There will be a robust public information campaign about the system and what to expect that will be conducted throughout spring 2023 to ensure residents know what to do if the sirens sound.

• The road and/or bridge is the only access to the property

www.fema.gov/assistance/individual/ program

on ongoing Town projects

Sewer EIR approved and certified by Town

The environmental impact report (EIR) was approved and certified by Paradise Town Council and the project is now moving into the design phase. Funding for design has been secured. Once the project has been fully designed, construction will begin in 2024-2026. For more information, visit www.paradisesewer.com.

Almond Street Downtown project scheduled for May completion

The downtown project is nearly complete! The roads have been paved, sidewalk, curb and gutter have been installed, and lighting has been added throughout the project. The final element will be landscaping, which is scheduled to be complete by May. We are excited for the outcome of this long-awaited project and thank our residents and businesses for their patience during the construction phase.

Repaving to be completed by 2025

Last summer, the Town began a multi-year repaving effort which will result in the repaving of all public roads in the Town of Paradise by 2025. The Town of Paradise website

features a color coded map and an alphabetical list showing the expected paving schedule. Funding for this project was awarded to the Town from FEMA and the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA).

Commercial Sign Removal grants still available

The Town of Paradise Commercial Sign Removal Program is funded through the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) of 2021. Grants will be awarded on a firstcome first-served basis, until all allocated funds have been expended. A total of $100,000 has been allocated for this program. After application is approved, the Town will work with the business and contractor to have the sign removed and will pay the contractor directly for the service. For more information and an application, visit bit.ly/3IW9aee.

Burn Permits available online or at Town BRC

Fire Department staff will not be onsite to answer questions or issue burn permits during construction of Station 81. Burn permits can be purchased online and at the Town of Paradise Building Resiliency Center, located at 6295 Skyway. Purchase Online Burn Permits Here: http://bit. ly/3YRthi7

TOP awards $5,000 Business Investment Grants to 15 Paradise businesses

The Town of Paradise Business Investment Grant Program (BIG) was funded through the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) of 2021, to financially assist existing, new, and returning businesses in Paradise after the 2018 Camp Fire.

Grants were awarded to eligible businesses on a lottery basis until the $100,000 of allocated funds were exhausted.

Help congratulate the following businesses awarded as a “thankyou” and incentive for keeping Paradise in business.

• The Salon

• Jen’s Place

• Hudson’s Appliance Center

• Maxx for Less

• Ken’s Paradise Hitch & Welding

• Madd Natters Donuts

• Deja Vu Gardens Galore Nursery

• Skyway Villa Mobile Home & RV Park

• Dobrich Septic Service, Inc.

• Lian’s Nails

• Tucker Enterprises

• Lofi Cafe

• Dye Day Spa

• Foothill Mill & Lumber Company, Inc.

• Pee Wee Preschool

Hear from a few of the winners:

“A big ‘Thank you’ from our small team, as your help is greatly appreciated, and will bring value directly back to the community,” said the owner of Skyway Villa Mobile Home & RV Park . They’ll use their award to help clear fallen trees and invest in critical electrical equipment.

• “This grant will allow us to pay off a

small portion of our start-up debt,” said the owner of Madd Natters Donuts, “And allows us to upgrade some equipment.”

• Lian’s Nails wants to hire at least two more full-time manicurists and purchase commercial property on the Ridge. The financial help will enable them to “secure the property and purchase the appropriate equipment for additional staff.”

• And over at Hudson’s Appliance, they “plan to use this grant for either service tools that will better equip employees for their jobs in the field or put it towards a vehicle wrap to help us better advertise.”

Significant

March snowfall keeps Paradise

Public Works busy

The Town of Paradise experienced the most significant snowfall in 20 years in late February, with up to two feet of snow accumulation seen in many locations in Paradise. The Public Works Department worked around the clock to clear roadways, focusing on major arterials first. The Town also worked with private contractors to provide additional plowing support. With more storms in the forecast at the time of this writing, the Town of Paradise is ready to take appropriate action to keep residents safe. In future storms, or any other emergency, residents can stay informed by tuning into the Town’s Radio

Station AM 1500, or visiting the Town’s website and social media pages.

PARADISE

Paradise Town Hall on Skyway.

Terry Ashe Park, 6626 Skyway, Paradise.

Although snow forced the closure of some businesses, chocolate keeps well. Visit Joy Lyn’s at the corner of Pearson and Black Olive.

Sawmill Peak from Old Skyway, Magalia.

Maria’s Kitchen welcomes guests for chile.

Elsa delights in the frosty wonderland.

Foraging in the snow on Bille Road.

Crossfire Tree &

helped with snow removal.

Photo courtesy of PRPD

Photo courtesy of Aubrey Pruis

NUGGET, from page 1

crowned with the historic 14 karat yellow gold crown, coveted by many, but worn by few. The crown made by John A. Woodworth circa 1968, and maintained by son John F. Woodworth, miraculously survived the Camp Fire, has been worn by our elected queen every year since. The Queen will ride, with her escort, on the Gold Nugget Days Queen float on Saturday, April 29, 2022, during the Gold Nugget Days Parade.

For a full calendar of Gold Nugget events, see page A-23

With so much changing every day, please stay tuned to the Paradise Ridge Chamber of Commerce calendar, paradisechamber.com, where updated details are available for your festival planning.

Your Gold Nugget Days Inc., board of directors and staff, have been working hard to make the necessary improvements to reestablish our local museum. A special “thank you” to the North Valley Community Foundation; the Paradise Rotary Club, and Rotary International; Butte County sustainability grants; the Town of Paradise; our membership; volunteers; and of course, YOU, for your sustained support of our mission to preserve the history of the Ridge and to educate the community on our collective past.

GRAZING, from page 1

will be available, so you won’t go hungry or thirsty. Enjoy browsing the local craft vendors for unique gifts or souvenirs. Throughout the day you can learn more about goat herding and care through demonstrations. Call Lauren DeTerra at laurendeterra@buttefiresafe.net or (530) 877-0984

CHOCOLATE, from page 1

Additional highlights include Chocolate Chase 5K Run, Art in the Park, All About Books, Playhouse Build & Raffle, Wine & Brew Garden, and delicious food selections. Admission is $5, children 4 & under, free. For additional info visit chocolatefest.us

Paradise Chocolate Fest benefits non-profit organizations that provide educational, enrichment, recreational and leadership opportunities to youth on the Paradise Ridge. Since 2006, the Fest has contributed over $390,000 in financial support to youth programs and services.

Kids playhouse to be built and raffled off during Chocolate Fest

This playhouse will be built and raffled off at the Chocolate Fest celebration 4 p.m. on Saturday May 13. Come early and watch the building, from the ground up! 100% of ticket sales will benefit youth services on the Ridge.

Building A Foundation for the Future of Youth on the Paradise Ridge … from the Ground Up! A playhouse will be built and raffled off at the Paradise Chocolate Fest, Saturday, May 13th, in collaboration with Valley Contractors Exchange, AGS Construction Services, Payless Building Supply and other regional designers, architects, builders and suppliers working alongside Paradise and Ridgeview High School students, apprentices and mentors. It will be built at the Fest, raffled off at 4:00 p.m. Come early and watch the building, from the ground up!

Tickets - $10. Winner need not be present. The “Lucky Ticket” will be drawn Saturday, at 4:00 pm.

Chocolate Fest Co-Founder Bill Hartley and reigning Chocolate Fest Queen Meg Helms

ECV Pair-o-Dice 711’s 65th annual Donkey Derby recreates 1859 discovery and uphill journey of the 54 pound Dogtown Nugget.

Photos courtesy of Glenn Harrington

A treasured Ridge tradition, the Gold Nugget Days parade is Paradise at its historical best.

Rebuilding or thinking of building?

RPF offers resources to save money

mapping. The maps have layers that show each property’s septic capacity, survey status, and flood zones.

Drone Program- offered as a complimentary service to allow design professionals to increase their design efficiency, translating into savings for the property owner.

New to the Ridge?

We’re looking for your input!

• We are looking for people who have moved to the ridge (Paradise, Magalia, Concow, etc.) after the 2018 Camp Fire. The interview will mainly focus on what motivated you to move to the area and what your perspectives are on the rebuild and future of the Ridge. Both renters and homeowners encouraged.

• Each interview will receive a $10 gift card to LoFi Café in Paradise

• All participants must be 18 years of age or older.

• Please email jchase@csuchico.edu for more information

Follow us on social media for updates

Facebook: Rebuild Paradise Foundation

By Jen Goodlin

Executive Director

Rebuild Paradise Foundation

Who are we? The Rebuild Paradise Foundation (RPF) is a local non-profit, dedicated to the longterm recovery of Butte County’s Camp Fire disasteraffected areas. We have many resources to offset the cost of pre-construction expenses.

Our Programs include:

Missing Middle Grant- this grant helps cover pre-construction expenses; Survey, Architect and Engineering fees and Water related expenses. We reimburse up to $5,000 in these categories

Septic grant- this grant helps cover the costly expenses of replacing or repairing a septic tank. Applicants can get up to $7,500 in septic reimbursement depending on income level and septic costs.

Master Floor Plan Library-provides access to low-cost house plans that have been mastered through the Town of Paradise and Butte County (We are currently working on bringing all master plans up to California’s new building code updates-expected release is Spring, 2023)

Mapping Resource- check out our mapping tool at www.rebuildparadise.org/

Instagram: rebuildparadiseca

• Sharing stories of rebuilding to empower others to return

• Showcasing different homes and styles currently being rebuilt

• Promoting new and upcoming events

• Sharing inspiring photos of old and new beauty arising on the Ridge

• Want to be featured? Share a photo email: stories@rebuildparadise.org

Additional resources and grant applications: www.rebuildparadise.org or email info@rebuildparadise.org

The Argel family are recipients of the Missing Middle Grant and are working toward completing their home in Paradise.

Butte County survey gathered input on claimants’ interactions with Fire Victim Trust

By Doug Teeter Butte County Supervisor, District 5

At its June 14, 2022, meeting, the Butte County Board of Supervisors directed staff to develop a voluntary, anonymous survey to gather input from Camp Fire survivors on their interactions with the Fire Victim Trust. Staff developed the Camp Fire Claims Public Survey to understand the status of claims and payments resulting from Camp Fire losses and the overall fairness of the private claims process being used.

Survey questions were developed to help the County better understand the concerns of claimants and determine whether any particular concerns are widely held. There were 54 questions total within three categories (Personal, Business and Minors). The total number of responses submitted on-line and on paper was 1,491.

My desire for the County to survey claimants was twofold: verify data from the Trust and determine where other issues in the claims process may exist. I believe the results, as of close of the survey, supported the Trust’s data regarding how many claimants have received determinations. However, one could infer there was a delay in receipt of funds for 1/3 of those who had a determination: those owning businesses and minors were being processed after adults with non-business claims. While I’m not sure the survey will make any changes to the way the Trust and attorneys are processing claims, I do hope we can make a difference in the way situations such as this are handled in the future. Cathy Yanni, the Trustee of the Trust, has been open to receive concerns directly from claimants. I have forwarded to her the emails I received from claimants; I am always willing to do that for anyone else. I can be reached at dteeter@buttecounty.net

An executive summary of the results of the County’s Fire Victim’s Trust survey was presented at the December 13th Butte County Board of Supervisor’s meeting.

Executive Summary results of Camp Fire Claims Public Survey

1,491 Responses (“Not Applicable” responses were removed from the percentage calculations.)

Order of perceived fault for preliminary payment delays on business claims:

1. Fire Victim Trust (54%)

2. Unknown (25%)

3. Other (10%)

4. Their attorney (4%)

5. Third party hired to administer the Trust (4%)

52% Indicate the minor claimant has not received a determination letter

82% Indicate the minor claimant has not received funds deposited into an account for the minor’s benefit

6% Indicated the Special Master reviewed and approved the claims determination and disbursement measures

a first payment of 45% of their determination letter

88% Indicate representation by an attorney 68% Indicate their original attorney fee was 33% 86% Indicate their attorney has not decreased their fee

BUSINESS CLAIMS:

19% Have a business claim

Indicate their business is operating

14% Received a preliminary payment on their business claim 24% Received a determination on their business claim

6. Completing their business claim (3%)

MINOR CLAIMS:

19% Indicate legal representation of a minor claimant

66% Indicate representation by an attorney

56% Indicate their attorney requested their firm file the minor claim

51% Indicate their attorney did not inform them of the Special Master review

45% Indicate their attorney informed them that funds would be held in trust

74% Indicate their attorney did not inform them they could file a minor claim directly with the Trust

88% Indicate the minor claimant did not meet personally with the Special Master

Estimates for how much time the minor’s attorney spent obtaining information for submitting the minor’s claim (removed N/A):

1. 1 hour or less (43%)

2. Other (26%)

3. 2-4 hours (18%)

4. Up to 1 business day (6.5%)

5. More than 1 business day (6.5%)

86% Indicate the attorney did not meet with the minor claimant

71% Have not received a copy of the claim the attorney submitted

59% Do not think an attorney fee of 25% is fair

FVT procedure for minors or adult persons with disability

By Doug Teeter Butte County Supervisor, District 5

Through discussions with those who have children with Fire Victim Trust (FVT) claims, I am concerned that legal guardians, such as parents, are not being informed by their attorneys of the process the Trust is following. And the options the legal guardian may have. The below link to the Bankruptcy Judge’s order describes the procedure for minor and adult persons with a disability:

https://www.firevictimtrust.com/Docs/ Filed%20Special%20Master%20Order%20 For%20Procedures%20For%20Approval%20of%20Compromises%20For%20 Protected%20Persons.pdf

On page 5 of the document (found in the link above) is a copy of the petition To Approve Compromise for Protected Persons to be sent to the Special Master by the Legal Guardian. Other notable sections are: Disposition of balance of proceeds of settlement or judgment at section 19.b (if there is no court ordered conservatorship or guardianship)

Claimant’s attorney’s fees at section 14 California court rules determine a reasonable fee standard for minors and adults with disabilities. The link to the 2020 California Rules of Court is here: https://www. courts.ca.gov/cms/rules/index.cfm?title=s even&linkid=rule7_955

Note (a)(2) “must evaluate the agreement based on the facts and circumstances exist-

ing at the time the agreement was made, except where the attorney and the representative of the minor or person with a disability contemplated that the attorney’s fee would be affected by later events.”

The Trustee of the Fire Victim’s Trust stated that the Special Master has instituted a 25% upper limit on attorney fee awards. However, the Trust also will only pay up to 25% attorney fees for inverse condemnation of real and personal property. I believe most minor claimants have much simpler claims than a real or personal property claim, and minor attorney fees should reflect that. I am not an attorney, but I’m willing to share my thoughts on the minor claim process. Feel free to contact me at dteeter@buttecounty.net

Feather River Health Foundation’s Healthy Communities Initiatives

By Chuck Rough Chairman, Feather River Health Foundation

The Feather River Health Foundation sponsors a Healthy Communities initiative to establish a preventive health-focused plan to improve the physical and emotional health and well-being of our communities in Butte County, including Paradise and the Paradise Ridge. This initiative is making substantial progress towards completion.

This initiative is overseen by a steering committee comprised of key stakeholders throughout Butte County and supported by key community partners and national Blue Zone experts serving in an advisory capacity.

The steering committee recognized from the outset that an emphasis on preventive health is a far less expensive approach to individual health and well-being and results in much greater long term health benefits for these same individuals, their families, and communities.

More specifically, this community-driven plan intends to complement existing preventive health efforts in Butte County and to address gaps and unmet needs in three priority areas – healthy

eating, physical activity, and connection & meaning.

Addressing Food Insecurity

We’ve stepped up our efforts to address the serious food insecurity problem in Paradise and Butte County by allocating more than $42,000 to the Butte County Local Food Network and arranging for the Blue Zones national expert on food systems to advise the Butte County Food Systems Collaborative. This Collaborative is working to establish a county-wide system to focus on food insecurity and inequity, and lack of access to healthy food.

Supporting Ridge Recovery

FRHF continues to support residents as they recover and rebuild through the Inspire Hope Project, which provides local organizations with truckloads of household items. More than 166 trucks have delivered items for the Ridge community, valued at more than $8.3 million, and supporting thousands of individuals, adults, and children.

For further information about the Feather River Health Foundation and our mission, contact Chuck Rough, Chair at clroughjr@gmail. com or Joleen Levey, Executive Director at nevesjm@ah.org.

At its February 14 meeting, the Butte County Board of Supervisors approved sending a letter to the PG&E Fire Victim Trust asking for it to lower the upper limit of attorney’s fees for minors and adults with disabilities who survived the 2018 Camp Fire.

Important information on re-establishing your PID water service

By Tonya Dale Cedar Creek Publishing

If you “disconnected” your parcel in Paradise from Paradise Irrigation District, run--don’t walk--to the district before May 1 to re-establish your account and save money on increased future capacity fees. This grace period extends until 3:30 pm on April 30, 2023.

DISCONNECTED FROM PID?

RECONNECT BY MAY 1 TO SAVE MONEY ON FUTURE CAPACITY FEES.

CALL 530/877-4971

Since the 2018 Camp Fire, most parcel owners that previously had PID service opted to be on the “Active” rate and receive water ($42.97/month plus water quantity charge) or be on “Ready to Serve” rate ($21.49/month) and have a sealed meter but with the assurance PID would, upon the owner’s request, convert the parcel to active rate at any time in the future. A smaller number of property owners who had previously been served by PID requested to drop PID service entirely; it’s this last group which will be affected by the May 1 deadline.

As of May 1, 2023 parcels moving from the Disconnected to Ready to Serve or Active rates will pay additional capacity charges. A capacity charge is similar to a development impact fee; the capacity fee charge pays for capacity generating projects giving PID the ability to create additional water capacity to serve new customers.

PID’s current capacity fee (for a standard, ¾-inch residential main) is $4,376. A 2021

engineering study found that PID needed to increase the capacity fee to $11,627 to accommodate PID’s cost to develop additional water capacity. PID’s board voted to transition from the current fee to the higher fee over a fiveyear period with a 20% increase each year in capacity fee charge. As of May 1, 2023, the charge will be $5,826.20. Disconnected users that were former PID active customers pre-Fire will receive a “credit” of $4,376.00 on the capacity fee in place at the time of their request.

Additionally, parcels which were disconnected are currently charged the actual cost for a meter, service lateral, backflow and labor costs associated with re-establishing service at the time they place an order for a meter.

Contact the PID Office by phone (530/877-4971) or in person (6332 Clark Road, 9 am to 4 pm, M-F) to re-establish service with PID and avoid the higher capacity and reconnection fees in the future.

Five PID Trustees recently sworn in

By Tonya Dale Cedar Creek Publishing

Five trustees were recently sworn on to the Paradise Irrigation Department (PID) Board of Directors. PID is a community-owned “special district” water agency; it’s governed by five trustees, represented by five geographic zones within the district.

While directors must live in their specific division, each is responsive to input from property owners throughout the water district. Contact information for each board member is at PIDWater.com/board

Current PID Board members

• Chris Rehman, Paradise resident since 2018; retired from sales and technical management in oil field and pumping systems.

• Alan Hinman, Paradise resident since 2018; retired from career in electromechanical engineering.

• Shelby Boston, President, Paradise resident since 1998; works as Director of Butte County Dept. of Employment and Social Services.

• Marc Sulik, Paradise resident since 1985; retired from career in municipal wastewater treatment.

• Bob Matthews, Vice President, Paradise resident since 2018; retired from a career in business consulting. Regular PID board meetings are at 5:30 p.m., third Wednesday of each month at the district office, 6332 Clark Road, as well as via Zoom. In addition to dealing with matters on the agenda, each meeting features an opportunity for community members to speak to a non-agendized topic at the meeting’s start.

PID has positions available

Looking for a job that pays well while helping your community—check out the positions available with PID, your community water district. Look online at PIDWater.com/ careers for the latest job openings; you can also apply online using the same link.

CHIP brings affordable, intergenerational apartment complex to Paradise

By Mark Montgomery Director of Fundraising & Communications

On February 21, the Town of Paradise Planning Commission unanimously approved the development plan for Cypress Family and Senior Apartments. The developers behind the project are Community Housing Improvement Program (CHIP), Mercy Housing, and Zen Development, Inc. and the plan includes 70 units of affordable senior housing and 70 units of affordable family housing. The development aims to serve seniors, families, and individuals at 30%-60% Area Median Income (AMI).

Located on Cypress Lane off Clark Road, the site is made up of 24 acres with ample greenspace to work with the existing creeks and natural elements. The 70 units of family housing will be divided into eight two-story buildings, and 70 units of senior housing will be divided into two single-story and two, twostory buildings. There will be a 5,700sf community building shared by both communities.

The property will be managed by CHIP with two full-time, on-site resident managers, one part-time property management assistant, two full-time maintenance staff, and one full-time Resident Services employee who will serve both senior and family residents. CHIP is excited for the intergenerational

programming opportunities for the residents. Some examples of intergenerational activities include teens pairing with seniors to give tech lessons, providing companionship, or assisting with everyday errands, or seniors mentoring youth, offering childcare services, or teaching oral history.

Buildings Standards Code (CALGreen) will be adopted to promote Green Building Sustainability, and Energy Efficiency in the proposed project. The proposed project will also be designed to incorporate principles of sustainability, including water and energy efficiency, resilience, and mitigating the impact of future disasters.

The buildings are designed to meet Wildfire Urban Interface (WUI) standards, and multiple egresses have been designed. Additional fire safety design considerations have been made in collaboration with the Butte County Fire Safe Council.

The future development is still in planning stages. If all goes well, construction on the first phase (family buildings), will begin sometime next year with the second phase (senior) starting about six months later. Occupancy and leasing would start in 2025. CHIP is working with the Town of Paradise to determine preferences for Camp Fire survivors. More information, including site plans, can be found on the blog section of CHIP’s website at chiphousing.org.

CHIP is planning a new affordable housing community in Magalia

By Mark Montgomery Director of Fundraising & Communications

Community Housing Improvement Program (CHIP) is in the very early development/planning stages for 63 units of affordable housing in Magalia. The development aims to serve families and individuals, as well as target seniors and persons with disabilities. The new housing community, Lakeridge Circle Apartments will be on 18 acres (8 contiguous lots) on Lakeridge Circle, starting at the north corner and ending just north of Lakeridge Park parking lot.

Lakeridge Circle Apartments will serve households between 30-50% of the Area Median Income for (AMI) Butte County. There will be 8 two-

story apartment buildings consisting of 1,2 and 3 bedroom units. There will also be one resident community building. Amenities include an onsite laundry room, computer lab, community garden, and an outdoor recreation area. Resident services will be offered on-site by CHIP staff and volunteers. In addition, CHIP intends to partner with Paradise Recreation and Park District to enhance pedestrian connectivity to the future Lakeridge Park as well as development of intergenerational programming at the park’s community center.

Currently, CHIP is in the design and community input phase for the development. If funding is secured, construction could start as soon as 2025. More information, including site plans, may be found on the blog section of CHIP’s website at chiphousing.org.

Lakeridge Circle Apartments is in the early stages of development with 63 units of affordable housing on 18 acres in Magalia.

The Rose family began their funeral home in 1951. The building, originally a hardware store, sat on a two lane Clark at Bille roads.

Joanne and Fred Cosgrove in November 1961, in their shared office at Rose Chapel.

January storm fells a Paradise giant Rotary’s Vocational Project connects students, educators, and businesses

By Don Criswell

A Paradise old timer fell during the night of January 7, 2023. The venerable giant, a Ponderosa pine, stood at the corner of Skyway and Elliott Road for about 161 years.

Prior to 1952, the Skyway was called Neal Road, originally a foot path and cattle trail, then a route for mule and ox teams, wagons, and finally motor vehicles. During its lifetime the Big Tree witnessed the passage of every traveler bound for parts north, south, east, or west of its location. The Big Tree survived countless storms, high winds, droughts, and road projects. It thrived when other trees succumbed to logging, disease, pine beetles, and fire. It was one of the few big pines not consumed by the Camp Fire that destroyed millions of trees. Imagine how many photographs depict the Big Tree in the background, and the many Veterans’ Hall activities shaded by its huge canopy. The Big Tree dominated the view from our property on Elliott Road. Its absence evokes a melancholy reminder that nothing lasts forever.

Early the morning after the tree fell, Carol Stark, owner of Jeannie’s Consignment, advised me that it was down and should be preserved for historical interest. I agreed and said the Gold Nugget Museum would lead the cause. Bill Hartley and Mark Thorp of Gold Nugget Museum quickly got involved in the effort. My neighbor DJ Gomes, owner of DJ’s Crossfire Tree Services, immediately returned our call; he had the heavy equipment and know-how to handle this project.

Within hours DJ’s crew moved several logs to the Gold Nugget Museum. Fast action ensured that the Big Tree would not be wasted.

Action News broadcast the story, generating interest on how to preserve the Big Tree’s wood. Some suggestions were to create and sell mementoes to support Gold Nugget Museum and other Ridge organizations. Another idea was to display a section of the tree rings with a panel identifying historical events that occurred during its lifetime. My favorite is to mill the logs and use the lumber to reconstruct the Gold Nugget Museum.

We are delighted that most of the Big Tree was saved. I think we are most pleased with the way in which it was done—the Paradise way—with partnership and pride. The project created a real sense of comradery among those involved. It stands as a wonderful example of neighborliness, of community spirit and cooperation to get things done. I’m proud of everyone that joined in the project. The Big Tree will continue being part of our Ridge history.

By Sonny Ventimiglio Rotary Club of Paradise, Chairman of the Vocational Committee

Paradise Rotary is working to keep our kids on the Ridge! Rotary’s Vocational Committee designed a project encouraging local youth to explore a career path in their own backyard. Retention of our Ridge workforce will help support business and may also provide lasting employment opportunities for our young adults.

The first step of this two-phased project was the very successful, Rotary hosted, Career Expo (Exposure), held in the new Paradise High School gym last November. Over 1,000 students attended, and more than 90 local industry professionals representing in-demand career fields from across the county shared information including minimum qualifications, educational requirements, salary expectations and more.

Rotary’s goal with the Career Expo was to show students a path to stay local. At the Expo they were exposed to a variety of career paths preparing them for the next chapter of their educational journey. Students interacted with potential future employers, while local businesses/employers shared their employment needs.

The second step Job Fair is

(PRPD) to present the Rotary Club of Paradise and PRPD Job Fair. If you’re looking for employment opportunities or, if you’re looking to hire someone or offer internship opportunities, please join us. There will be local businesses looking to hire and educational pathway resources for those needing to gain skills employment.

Right now, skilled labor is in high demand, so we are focusing on connecting the future of the workforce on the Ridge to the local employers and the educational resources required for a successful career.

The Rotary Club of Paradise and PRPD Job Fair

Friday, May 5, 12:00 – 5:00p.m. Terry Ashe Park, 6626 Skyway, Paradise

Gold Nugget Days, Inc., thanks DJ Gomes and Crossfire Tree and Vegetation Services for their tremendous help in cutting and transporting the toppled tree from the Paradise Veterans Hall to the Gold Nugget Museum property.

Paradise Rotary is creating Career Expos and Job Fairs to retain Ridge workforce.

By Robin Oliver Vice President, Business Development Executive Adventist Health and Rideout

In 2022, with the onboarding of a new executive leadership team, Adventist Health has made a concerted effort to keep the community engaged and informed by developing a Paradise Healthcare Steering Committee comprised of Adventist Health leaders, representation from local elected officials’, community leaders and members. The goal of this steering committee is to collaboratively address the rebounding community’s healthcare needs and openly discuss Adventist Health’s plans to support them. The committee has met twice and will continue with a quarterly schedule. Discussions have been productive due to the willingness of all participants to engage in open and honest dialogue and to gain understanding on this emotionally charged topic.

Adventist Health is keenly aware of the community’s desire to rebuild Feather River Hospital and its significance as an emblem of recovery. However, as discussed with the Paradise Healthcare Steering Committee, the current and projected population of Paradise and the Upper Ridge communities will not produce the patient volume needed to support a full-scale hospital. Through our conversations with community leaders, it has also become evident that most residents are unaware that the hospital was struggling to thrive on pre-fire volumes and a variety of alternative operating strategies were being considered.

There are additional considerations

including the complicated nature of building a hospital. As one can imagine, building a hospital is significantly different from rebuilding a home or retail structure. It is a highly regulated process.

On average, hospital construction in California takes anywhere from seven to ten years, at a current cost of about $4-$5 million per bed. It involves staggering capital investment, adherence to extensive federal and state regulations, safety standards, and licensing requirements. Although the Feather River facility appears viable on the outside, the fire caused considerable structural and physical plant damage that would need to be corrected. Incremental demolition costs, structural corrections and new building code requirements cause renovation costs to exceed new construction costs with staggering regularity.

Free Standing Emergency Department Legislation (SB 156)

In addition to addressing the community’s desire to rebuild the hospital, the committee has also discussed California legislation (SB 156). As a result of the Camp Fire, SB 156 was introduced by local elected officials to enable Feather River Hospital, specifically, to operate its Emergency Department (ED) as a free-standing ED while the hospital was being rebuilt. This legislation limited the time the ED could operate independently of the hospital to six years-- less than the time it takes to rebuild a hospital.

Not surprisingly, a free-standing ED in California is equally, if not more, complicated than building a hospital.

Today, there are more than 400 freestanding EDs in the US; however, the California Health and Safety Code does not allow for free-standing EDs. Before Adventist Health can build and operate a free-standing ED, the six-year limitation will need to be removed from SB 156 and multiple government entities will need to create the required licensure, building codes and reimbursement models. Creating these rules, regulations and models will take significant coordination and necessitate considerabe time. Previous attempts to develop freestanding ED code in California have met with fierce opposition from a variety of organizations and ultimately failed.

Lastly, once these complex antecedents are navigated, Adventist Health will need to negotiate with organized labor partners, who have opposed this proposition to date, to clear the path for our labor pool. Simply stated, the pursuit of a free-standing ED is a complex and arduous multi-phase process that requires sound strategy, coordination, persistence, and above all else, patience.

Achieving an Aligned Approach

Based on Adventist Health’s continued commitment to providing healthcare to the Ridge communities, along with discussions with the Paradise Healthcare Steering Committee, Adventist Health has initiated a thoughtful strategic plan to scale healthcare services in keeping with the population’s return to the Ridge.

Adventist Health’s near-term strategic approach is to expand current services, and to fortify urgent and sub-emergent care to address the immediate needs expressed by multiple stakeholders and residents. Adventist Health will continue to work closely with the Paradise Healthcare Steering Committee, to engage our elected representatives, and to share plans in the final approval phases with the community over the coming months.

Fire Victims Trust Settlement Agreement

In addition to the hospital’s rebuilding plans, there have been ongoing inquiries regarding the settlement between Adventist Health and the Fire Victims Trust. After a multi-year process with the Fire Victims Trust (which administers the PG&E bankruptcy), we are pleased to have reached a resolution in this matter. Due to a non-disclosure agreement, we cannot provide further information.

Our Commitment

“Adventist Health looks forward to the continued partnership, ongoing dialogue, and opportunity to contribute to the growth of Paradise and the Upper Ridge. We remain committed to a transparent process through our regular updates.” — Chris Champlin, Market President, Adventist Health and Rideout and Feather River Hospital.

PRPD celebrates 75th anniversary

The Paradise Recreation and Park District (PRPD) was organized in October 1948, as a special district to provide park and recreation programs. Many believe the district is a department operating under the Town of Paradise, but in fact, PRPD operates independently from the Town, though is a close partner in achieving shared goals.

Under the District and Board of Directors’ leadership, PRPD has grown its park and recreation offerings from what started as a public “pool” (a dredged-out part of Berry Creek off Mallan Lane in Paradise) to managing more than 402 acres of fully and partially developed land and 450 acres of unimproved open space.

The District has also financially supported the public’s access to recreation by providing partial funding for the Pine Ridge Gymnasium in Magalia, the purchase of property for Egleson Field in Paradise, capital improvements and several years of rent for the Paradise Symphony Orchestra at the Paradise

Performing Arts Center, and more.

The District has a long history, but likes to think of itself as a 75-year old startup. PRPD is determined to maintain recreational opportunities that residents most enjoy, while introducing new events and activities not offered in the past. Park Supervisor Mark Cobb and his crew have completed a tremendous amount of work on recovery projects, while keeping District parks impeccably clean, safe, and accessible. Additional recovery projects remain, including the installation of a new playground at Moore Road Park replacing what was destroyed in the Camp Fire.

The District looks forward to executing new park development and enhancement projects made possible by recent grant awards: Lakeridge Park, Magalia; Oak Creek Park, Paradise; and Bille Park enhancements, Paradise.

The District is proud of historical accomplishments in serving the park and recreational needs of the many communities they serve (Butte Creek Canyon,

Since 1948, the District has been led by 5 Managers: Elmer Martin (19481950), Harvey Rother (1950-1967), Terry Ashe (1967-1995), Mike Trinca (19952017), and Dan Efseaff (2018-present)

Concow/Yankee Hill, Magalia, Paradise) while also continuing to improve and better serve the evolving needs of the residents in the District. PRPD seeks to commemorate its 75 years by hosting celebrations in each of the communities it serves. Look for more to come at (www.paradiseprpd.com) or Facebook.

Paradise Ridge Chamber a long-time supporter of PRPD

In February 1941, then the “Paradise and Allied Communities Chamber of Commerce” voted to incorporate to be eligible to purchase 20 acres of land off Pearson Road, for $2,000. With Paradise’s social and economic center in the Black Olive/Pearson Road region, Chamber leadership felt the community would grow and needed a central location to house firefighting equipment, community services, sheriff deputies and/or community events.

In 1956, Chamber members parceled off six acres of the orchard for the recreation district’s swimming pool. In 1959 the remainder of the land was deeded to the newly organized Paradise Unified School District; the land is the site for the current Paradise Junior High School.

Certified Specialist, Estate Planning, Trust and Probate Law, State Bar of California, Board of Legal Specialization

ohn is a long-time resident of Paradise (having graduated from PHS in 1982) and has been serving the Ridge for 26 years. His law office on Almond Street burned in the fire, and he has established an office at the bottom of the Skyway at 45 Jan Court, Suite 170, Chico. John and his wife continue to make Paradise their home and are huge supporters of our community. He is Butte County’s longest actively practicing certified specialist in Estate Planning, Trust and Probate Law. His practice is limited to:

• Trusts, Special Needs Trusts & Wills

• Trust Administration

• Probate

• Medi-Cal Planning

• Business Law, LLC’s & S Corp

• Real Estate Law

530-228-9742

A PUSD update from Superintendent Tom Taylor

At this point I hope the entire community is aware of all the construction going on in Paradise Unified School District (PUSD). In case you missed it, we have been able to invest approximately $100 million dollars into providing our students with new and updated state of the art facilities. I encourage you to go to our website to look at all that is going on.

The new construction is great, but as always, our priority is on learning and everyone’s wellbeing. It is the focus on our learning and our wellbeing that drives us. This past year we asked parents and staff to complete multiple surveys. As a result of the surveys and data, it is evident we need to focus on three things: Learning, Social Emotional Learning and Attendance. It is easy to see all those things work hand in hand.

Learning

We will use our Professional Learning Community time as a critical cornerstone to address learning. Much of this is assessing four critical questions:

1. What do we want our students to know?

2. How do we know when they know it?

3. What do we do when they don’t get it?

4. What do we do when they already know it?

Doug Reeves, from Creative Leader-

ship, has written multiple books, in cluding Fearless Schools and was this year’s keynote speaker at the districtwide kickoff, and will be supporting us in this area for grades TK-8th. His focus

Matt Coleman, from Inflexion, has been and will continue to be with the high school on similar areas focused on systems implementation and change. Watch for PHS and the new Maxims: Connected, Hard Working and Future Focused.

Social Emotional Learning (RULER)

RULER: to Recognize, Understand, Label, Express, and Regulate oneself is our focus to address social emotional learning. Butte County Office of Education will continue to support us in this effort. All our sites have already started the development of their charters and the introduction of the Mood Meter. The focus as we move forward continues to be on strategies to support all of us in our daily jobs and routines.

Attendance

Attendance will be guided through our Three-Tiered System in Positive Behavior Intervention and Support. Our own Student Services department will be providing support and information to help us get back to our structure that was disrupted by COVID and the fire. This will include each site coming up with a plan to engage students and encourage them to be at school every day. When

Trustees and administrators pick up their shovels, breaking ground on Magalia’s Pine Ridge Elementary school’s construction projects. This is one of the many projects the Paradise Unified School District has undertaken, preparing students for success in the 21st century.

February snowstorms: community steps up to help the Magalia Community Church preserve goods and services

By Allison Denofrio Paradise Ridge Chamber of Commerce Board Director Owner, Green Garden Art

The Magalia Community Church, located at the top of Old Skyway, has been a beacon of hope, refuge and comfort for thousands since the Camp Fire in 2018. Church members and volunteers provided temporary shelter and distributed furniture and miscellaneous home goods to hundreds of families that have rebuilt, and supplied food boxes to those in need. This generosity continued during an epic snow fall on the Ridge.

When the first snow at the end of February came flurrying down, the large white tent that sheltered the home goods was threatened with collapse. Snow was building up on the roof and sliding down. It was stacking up around the open tent and starting to tumble inside --putting the merchandise in jeopardy. Doreen Fogle, on the Board of Directors and Dennis Holmes, the Church Operations Manager put out the call. A post put on Facebook made its way to a top story on local TV station Action News Now.

As soon as the public got word, folks jumped into action. Greenz Trucking in Magalia was first on the scene to help plow the snow. The

Ridgeview Rangers came out to do whatever was asked of them. Eight members of the local Mennonite community helped shovel snow and make paths.

Non-profit Global Empowerment Mission deployed from its Chico office and staged a Facebook Live. This post brought out the troops.

Snow moving machines came from Arbuckle, Cottonwood and Chico, helping not only the church but the community. Many residents were barricaded in their homes surrounded by walls of snow. They couldn’t get out to get food or more wood to heat their homes. Soon Butte County declared an emergency ion this area. Butte County Community Emergency Response Team came out in force, and along with Butte County Sheriff staff helped shovel access paths and delivered food and wood to 42 families.

The Ridge has had its share of disasters in the past four and a half years and the Magalia Community Church has opened it arms and doors, ready to help. It has been inspirational to witness an in-kind repayment of good works to the little church on the hill.

The church still needs help. They recommend you just show up and ask what you can do or give them a call at 530-877-7963. Checks may be mailed to PO Box 165, Magalia, CA 95954.

The remodel of the standing stone building is almost ready for use. It is remarkable to have one building survive, representing over 100 years of Noble Orchards history, providing a window into the vibrant apple industry that once thrived here on the Paradise Ridge.

Saving Grandpa’s stone building at Noble Orchards

By Laurie Noble

The original stone building at Noble Orchards was constructed by Grandpa Perry near the end of World War II. That garage was located near the original farmhouse. The wood doors rolled into the building and there was a hinged locking man door.

About 15 years ago the original wood shake roof was replaced with heavy plywood sheeting and finished with tin roofing. The wood burned out during the Camp Fire and the tin collapsed into the building. The cantilevered walls built of granite fieldstone, (gathered from the orchards) were faced on the interior walls with poured concrete. All the stone/concrete wall structures remained standing after the fire. The collapsed tin roof was thoroughly wedged inside the building. It was a challenge to remove it, but the terrific crew from D Line, who carried out the debris removal after the fire were determined to save the building walls. They strategically pulled out huge pieces of tin one at a time as they were still screwed together.

Our orchards were not heavily damaged by the fire. Agricultural fields are pruned, mowed, and irrigated. Damage to fruit trees mostly occurred to those trees near burned buildings, but Grandpa Perry Noble’s Stone Building still stands.

Magalia Community Church is the oldest building on the Ridge.

Butte Strong Fund in final year of grants

By David Little North Valley Community Foundation, Executive Vice President

After four years of issuing grants for Camp Fire recovery, the Butte Strong Fund is refining the application process for what is expected to be the final year of grants.

The Butte Strong Fund was formed in 2019, two months after the Camp Fire. The fund, managed by North Valley Community Foundation (NVCF), is a partnership among three major fundraising efforts by NVCF, Sierra Nevada Brewing Co. and NFL quarterback Aaron Rodgers.

The fund has approved hundreds of grants totaling $33,530,759 since then. It expects to spend the remaining $6 million in the fund by the end of the year, at which point donations will be exhausted.

“We have been careful and deliberate with all our grants. We knew recovery would be a long process and we wanted to be able to help with meaningful grant investments,” said Jovanni Tricerri, NVCF vice president of programs. “We especially feel a need to be thoughtful with our final year of large grants.”

The Butte Strong Fund has issued grants mainly in six funding areas over the years (housing, health and wellness, case management, youth and education, economic recovery and community development) as well as many miscellaneous grants. See a list of funded projects at nvcf.org/ buttestrongfund-fundedprojects.

For the final year, grants will focus on

two categories: housing and health and wellness.

“With input from our program officers and many partners in our communities, and especially our citizens committee, we decided the majority of what’s left should be spent on two recurring areas of need – programs that will make housing more affordable as well as wellness centers that help survivors find the resources they need,” said Tricerri.

For the large grants, there will be four quarterly cycles with defined application periods. For example, in the first quarter, the housing priority was defensible space projects. Organizations had to apply by Jan. 31 and grants will be awarded in March.

In the second quarter, the housing priority is land acquisition for nonprofits

committed to providing affordable housing and the wellness priority is resource hub proposals. Applications for the second quarter are due May 1 and grants will be awarded in late June.

Qualifying organizations can still apply for grants of $50,000 and less in all categories.

All told, NVCF has funded $57.6 million in grants and projects through the Butte Strong Fund and several other funds and initiatives since the Camp Fire on Nov. 8, 2018.

Learn more about the Butte Strong Fund’s 2023 grant cycles and how to apply at nvcf. org/buttestrongfundapply.

There are two photos of both the From the Ground Up Farms tool lending library and the Paradise Alliance Church fuel reduction assistance program.

LA NDSCAPE SOLUTIONS

I teach environmentally sensitive, low maintenance landscape solution topics for you to be a more discerning, creative, appreciative and thoughtful gardener.

I am a hands-on, friendly, and knowledgeable educator. The following topics will be covered in each of the three classes.

SPRING CLASSES

March - Preparing Your Spring Garden, IPM (Integrated Pest Management), Fertilizing & Water Management. Do it right, the first time!

April – Early and Late Spring Vegetable Planting, know the difference! Pruning & Care of Citrus for optimum vigor.

May - Planning Garden Habitats to attract Birds, Bees & Butterflies for your fascination and increasing plant health & pollination.

Also, Evergreens, the Foundation of Your Garden.

Instructor: Kathleen Elliott – Mountain View Landscape Design

Dates: Saturdays, 10:00 – 11:30 am •

Location: Terry Ashe Recreation Center

Ages: Adult Fee: $16.00 per class

Call

A program operated by Paradise Alliance Church and funded in part by a Butte Strong Fund grant removes brush and trees from properties in Paradise for free.

From the Ground Up Farms, a nonprofit organization in Concow, operates a tool lending library, where residents can borrow tools to clear their property of trees and brush. A Butte Strong Fund grant makes the program possible.

Help Chico fly - support the return of air service to Chico

By Tom Bahr Chico Airport Manager

The City of Chico is working to return commercial air service to our community. As most people are aware, our community lost air service in 2014. There are lessons to be learned from that loss as well as from successful efforts by other communities across the country. The city continues to make progress towards our goal of returning air service to our community--including making airport improvements, community outreach, meetings with airlines, renaming the airport, and creating an incentive program for an airline.

In our meetings with airlines, it has become clear there is a need for a strong community supported incentive package. The participation of our business community is a vital part of these efforts. Currently, our incentive package includes a grant of $500,000, $250,000 in offered fee waivers, and just

Exciting growth on the Ridge portends optimistic home sales

By Aubrey Pruis Association Executive/CEO Paradise Association of Realtors

If you haven’t been out and about in Paradise and Magalia lately, there are a lot of exciting changes happening. New housing inventory is popping up consistently. Where there was an empty lot yesterday, today there is a new foundation going in for yet another new home build. Our builders are building, and homes are selling - despite the recent interest rate hikes.

Currently there are 48 homes under contract in pending status with 97 currently active listings** as of today per the California Regional Multiple Listing Service (CRMLS) market statistics. These numbers are showing that the buyers are out there. Buyers are easing into the idea that the current interest rates are not as bad as they first felt them to be. We were spoiled by low interest rates over the past few years, and currently are seeing rates reminiscent of 2018 and before.

over $115,000 in a revenue guarantee fund. To be competitive with other communities, we have a goal of $1.5 to $2 million. The city is pursuing additional grant and funding opportunities.

Please join us in our effort to grow and strengthen our air service incentive package through donating, pledging to donate, or pledging your organization’s commitment to the success of returning air service to Chico.

For more information and to contribute, visit helpchicofly.com or reach out to Airport Manager Tom Bahr, (530) 896-7216. Tom. bahr@chicoca.gov.

What’s in our future? Soon we will be seeing a new expanded walkable downtown on Almond Street, more parks, and the removal of abandoned signs! A new Paradise Community Center (formerly the Senior Center) is in the planning stages in partnership with Paradise Recreation and Park District. The initial plan’s renderings depict an attractive and adaptable space, awaiting only funds to commence construction.

Buyers are advised to keep eyes on the housing market, while not focusing on interest rates, which can lead to fear-based decisions, failure to purchase…and missing out on potential housing opportunities. Buyers should buy that house, if they find it and it fits into their budget, despite where current interest rates stand at an average of 6.96%* as of this writing. When the rates do eventually come down, simply refinance.

Build a Home as Unique

AFFORDABLE & FLEXIBLE CONSTRUCTION FINANCING

The Ridge has a great inventory of homes, and buyers are proving that interest rates are not getting in the way of purchasing their perfect home.

When you are looking to buy, and you find “the home” that checks all the boxes, buy the house! … or you could just miss out.

*www.bankrate.com/mortgages/mortgage-rates/ **CRMLS market analysis for the Paradise Ridge as of 2/22/2023.

Go to Paradiserealtors.com.

A rendering of the new Paradise Community Center, formerly the Paradise Senior Center. The new facility is in the planning stages.

Wildland-Urban Interface fire exercise to be held on the Ridge

By Jim Broshears

With assistance from FEMA’s National Exercise Program, the Town of Paradise in collaboration with the Butte County Office of Emergency Management is sponsoring a multi-agency wildland fire exercise on June 15, 2023, from approximately 8:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. The exercise will take place in parts of Magalia and upper Paradise and will be based on a simulated wildland fire with threats to residential structures and community infrastructure. This scenario will result in a simulated evacuation of the areas affected by the exercise (no actual evacuations will take place).

The purpose of the exercise is to apply lessons learned from the Camp Fire After Action Review. It will enable the participating agencies to practice the many facets encountered during an actual wildland fire, from the initial dispatch, coordinated response, Emergency Operations Center (EOC) activation, evacuation requirements and notifications and the need for sheltering and communicating with the community.

Agencies that are invited to participate include Town Police and Public Works, Butte County Sheriff’s Office, Cal Fire, CHP, USFS, Cal State Parks, Cal Trans, the City of Chico Police, Fire and Public Works, Red Cross, North Valley Animal Disaster Group, the Paradise Unified School District, Paradise Parks and Recreation District, Paradise Irrigation District, Del Oro Water and Adventist Health Feather River.

The exercise will also be used to test the Town’s new Early Warning System which consists of 21 towers that can provide both voice and siren notification to citizens dur -

ing many types of emergencies. The warning system was a high priority identified by citizens during the Long-Term Recovery Plan process.

In addition to letting our citizens know about the exercise, we would also like to use this as an opportunity for residents to prepare for an actual emergency. By accessing the “Be Ready Butte” website at bereadybutte.com you can access information about evacuation preparedness, family emergency plans, Go-bags, preparing your home, defensible space and much more.

We are sensitive to the fact that many people are still affected by situations that trigger a reminder of what we experienced in 2018 and hope that they will find some solace that preparations like this will reduce the impact of future wildland fires on our communities and our citizens.

BILL HR176, from

from both sides of the aisle. But unfortunately, this bill doesn’t score well with their rating system (all bills have a rating) and we are pretty much guaranteed it would not pass as a stand-alone bill— it would have to be bundled with other bills. There is also talk of perhaps expanding this bill to include all human-caused disasters, which would make it a more expensive bill, but could garner support from southern senators where there is a lot of opposition.

I was also told that this bill would not pass by April 15th-- the earliest would be this summer, but it would be retroactive. We did walk away with a cautiously optimistic feeling that this bill would pass.

A lot of hard work is continuing on this bill. I had an opportunity to have a late dinner with our congressman and his chief of staff. We talked even more about the bill, and I believe we have the right people leading the charge. On Thursday, February 9, at 5:00 pm we left for home with several productive meetings behind us and a great feeling of accomplishment.

I want to thank all my colleagues that invited me to accompany them. It shows that even though we are from different fires and walks of life, we were able to come together for one cause and show our unity. I want to thank the citizens of Paradise for allowing me to represent them in this important venture.

I want to thank all my colleagues that invited me to accompany them. It shows that even though we are from different fires and walks of life, we were able to unite for an important cause and strengthen our case for wildfire victim tax relief. I want to thank the citizens of Paradise for allowing me to represent them in this important venture. If you are so inclined, you could write a letter to Congressmen LaMalfa and Thompson telling them why it is so important that this bill passes, and remind them that California has already exempted taxes on the FVT.

succulents, and stones make for the perfect sustainable gift that will last for years! Free

Kevin Phillips, Town Manager heads up one of the many staff planning meetings for the EOC exercises held for the Town’s WUI fire project.

16 chefs vie for the Golden Spoon award at the Boys & Girls Cook Off B&G Club created a Wildfire Recovery “Playbook” to aid other communities affected by disaster

By Alex Beehner Marketing & Community Engagement Director Boys & Girls Clubs of the North Valley

Join the Boys & Girls Clubs on Saturday, March 25th from 4 to 7 p.m. at the Paradise Veterans Hall for the 9th Annual Paradise Cook-Off! The Paradise Cook-Off features 16 master and amateur chefs demonstrating their culinary skills and special recipes in four different categories (appetizer, side dish, entrée and dessert).

Ticket holders will sample all 16 recipes and vote for their favorite dishes, enjoy a no-host bar staffed by Paradise Rotary, purchase raffle tickets for fabulous local products and dance to live music by Coyote House Band!

100% of funds raised will directly support the re-opening of the Paradise Teen Center off Skyway and summer services for Ridge youth and families.

To buy your tickets and support Ridge families today, visit bgcnv.org/cookoff or call (530) 899-0335.

Get your tickets for the Boys & Girls Cook Off, held Saturday March 25, at the Veterans’ Hall in Paradise. Attendees of the 2022 event are sampling some of the 16 recipes prepared by local chefs.

By Alex Beehner Marketing & Community Engagement Director Boys & Girls Clubs of the North Valley

At a Paradise Boys and Girls Clubs board meeting after the 2020 North Complex Fire, an idea and vision became a reality. During this meeting, Rashell Brobst, CEO of the Boys & Girls Clubs said, “If only there was some way we could put down everything we learned from the Camp Fire into a playbook for other communities affected by disasters.”

This thought that caught the attention of Lindsey Nenadal, a Paradise board member who grew up in Paradise. she set out with her team at Chico State University to create a playbook to support other communities throughout the world.

After two years of study, research, interviews and connecting with community partners, the final product is a comprehensive manual that offers guidance to people working with children, youth, and families in the event of a fire, or the threat of a fire, in or near their community. Beginning with the immediate response tactics, the playbook systematically works through steps needed to staff

up and equip a team that will support people from day one. This includes assigning emergency roles, answering and making critical first phone calls, creating accessible public information, and collaborating with organizations serving the same population.

From there, the playbook expands to recovery efforts and media outreach, offering advice on how to use social media to communicate with families and community organizations needing information. There are pages that highlight resources families can access like crisis hotlines—all of which served community partners as they were helping families. For organizations using the book, there are pages for making notes or reflections on how to personalize information.

The final version of the playbook can be downloaded for free online at shorturl.at/cjwH6 or use QRL

If you have any questions or would like to support Ridge youth and families, please contact (530) 8990335.

Information on all listed events, and more, may be found on ParadiseChamber.com’s community calendar on. Updated daily.

Ongoing:

Women’s Social Club on the Ridge

4th Mondays, 11:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.

Potluck social welcoming women on the Ridge. Free for first two visits. Contact Kelana Anderson, (925) 949-6988

Paradise Stronger Events

6848 Skyway Ste P, Paradise

Toddler and Me Class Mondays, 10:00am

Kids Tumbling Monday & Wednesday, 3:30-4:20p.m.

Paradise Elks Queen of Hearts

Hamburger night

Every First and Third Wednesday of the month, 5:00 – 8:00p.m.

Paradise Elks Lodge, 1100 Elk Lane, Paradise

“Life Recovery Journey”

12-point Program

Every Wednesday, 6:30 - 8:30 p.m.

Our Savior Lutheran Church, 6404 Pentz Rd. Paradise

12-point program based on Biblical principles offering hope and healing. Free. Marielle (714) 4785610, Kris (714) 602-5443. marielle.petersen@ gmail.com

Community Dinner

First and Third Fridays, 5:30 - 6:30 p.m.

Paradise Alliance Church, 6591 Clark Rd, Paradise Everyone is welcome to enjoy a free meal with friends. (530) 877-7069

Fridays for Lunch

Paradise Lutheran Church, 780 Luther Drive, Paradise

The Paradise Lutheran Church invites all to a free community lunch! (530) 877-3549

Paradise Friends of the Library

Book Sale

Every third Saturday 11:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.

Butte County Library, Paradise Branch, 5922 Clark Rd, Paradise

All proceeds support Paradise Library.

Table Mountain Masonic Lodge Market

Every second and fourth Saturday of the month 11:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.

5934 Clark Rd, Paradise

Your Ridge crafters, artists, home-made goods creators, food vendors and produce vendors.

Classes, Workshops and Open Studios at the Paradise Art Center

Paradise Art Center

5564 Almond Street, Paradise

Visit paradise-art-center.com for information, or call Kathy Dysert at 707-480-2426

Sol Sanctuary Events

Talk and Walk Sol Circle

Morning Meditation & Reflection

Evening Inspiration Hour

Healing From Trauma, Grief & Loss Sol Circle

Barn Angel Program

Visit https://linktr.ee/solsanctuary for full info.

— Business events —

ServSafe Food Safety Training and Certification

Thursday, March 30

Butte College SBDC, 2480 Notre Dame Blvd, Chico

Cost: $120 per person (includes book). $80 per person (book not included) Register at: www.buttecollegesbdc.com/events/ 530-895-9017

Training includes National Restaurant Association

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

ServSafe Exam, Essentials book, Answer Sheet and Certificate.

Creating Working Environments of Belonging through Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Anti-Racism

$155 - Two 3-hour live virtual trainings: 3/28, 5/2 (1:00-3:00 p.m.)

Virtual Training Sign ups https://buttethetrainingplace. coursestorm.com

Practical QuickBooks for New Users - 4 Week Series

Thursdays, April 6-27

Butte College SBDC, 2480 Notre Dame Blvd, Chico

Cost: $120 per person (includes book). $80 per person (book not included) Register Here: www.buttecollegesbdc.com/ events/ 530-895-9017

Basics of accounting from identifying the best QuickBooks version for your business, to setting up your system, managing accounts, and using financial reports. Cost: $50 per person pre-paid. Pre-registration is required (credit card payment only).

Gold Nugget Days Events

Gold Nugget Queen Contest and Revue

Thursday, April 27, 7:00 p.m

Paradise Performing Arts Center

777 Nunneley R.d, Paradise

Queen candidates are judged on historical authenticity of costume, poise, personality, and portfolio. The Queen rides, with her court, in the Gold Nugget Days Parade.

Gem and Mineral Show

Saturday, 9:00 a.m.-5:00p.m

Sunday, 9:00 a.m.- 4:00p.m. Gold Nugget Museum, 475 Pearson Rd, Paradise Kids’ Zone, lapidary works, tree giveaways, silent auction and more.

Rotary Bean Feed

Thursday, April 27, 4:00-6:30 p.m. Paradise Methodist Church, 6722 Clark Rd. Paradise All-you-can-eat! Tickets at door or from a Rotarian. $20, children under 10 free. Beans, cornbread, coleslaw, lemonade. Desserts, $3.

Elks Hoe Down

Friday, April 28, 5:00-10:00 p.m.

Daffodil Dance and Duets

Friday, March 24, 7:00 - 9:00 p.m.

Paradise Veterans’ Hall, 6550 Skyway, Paradise Dance music from the Apologetiks and a variety of danced and sung duets by local partners. $25-$50. Tickets at eventbrite or Gold Nugget Museum.

2nd Annual Paradise Grazing Festival

Saturday, March 25, 10:00 a.m.-3:00 p.m.

Terry Ashe

Recreation Center, 6626 Skyway, Paradise

A free community event supporting grazing for wildfire safety. Fun, food, venders and goats. Learn more at buttefiresafe. net/event/paradisegrazingfestival/

Paradise Boys & Girls Club

Cook-Off

Saturday, March 25, 4:00-7:00p.m. Paradise Veterans’ Hall, 6550 Skyway, Paradise

A four-course cooking competition, with master and amateur chefs offering appetizers, side dishes, entrees/BBQ, and desserts. Cash bar, live entertainment, raffle. (530)-899-0335 ext. 2209

Chico Air Museum: Run the Runway

Saturday, April 1, 9:00 a.m. start Chico Regional Airport, 165 Ryan Ave, Chico Run, stroll or walk on Runway 31 to support the Chico Air Museum! Families and runners of all ages welcome, including a “Stroller Pack at the Back” for our youngest participants. Medals for age group winners! $25 fee, free Tee, kids under 5 free. 530-774-3603, chicoairmuseum.org/ free.

Chico Home & Garden Show

Saturday & Sunday, April 1 & 2, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

Chico Silver Dollar Fair, 2857 Fair St., Chico

250 exhibits and services. Lots of food, rides, games. Free parking. $8 Adults, $7 Seniors. Kids free w/paying adults.

Gold Nugget Days Donkey Derby

Saturday April 29, 9:00-11:00 a.m.

Magalia Community Church

13700 Old Skyway, Magalia

ECV Pair-o-Dice 711’s 65th annual Donkey Derby recreates the 1859 discovery and uphill journey of the 54 pound Dogtown Nugget. Drovers compete against the terrain and each other over the 3 miles from Whiskey Flats up to Old Magalia Community Church and the obstacle course.

Gold Nugget Parade

Saturday, April 29, noon to 1:00 p.m. Traditional route: starts Paradise Shopping Center, Skyway, ending at Skyway and Birch Street. Skyway will close at approximately 11:00 a.m. so plan on arriving and parking early outside of the Paradise Shopping Center staging area.

Big Mo and The Full Moon Band with Volker Striffler at PPAC Paradise Performing Arts Center, (PPAC) 777 Nunneley Road, Paradise

Saturday April 29, 7:00-10:00 p.m. Fund raiser for PPAC, tickets $10 to $20.

Gold Nugget Days Horse Festival

Sunday, April 30, 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Paradise Horse Arena. Off Moore Road, Paradise. Family friendly event: food, booths, games, and raffle.

Gold Nugget Days Horse Festival

1100 Elk Lane, Paradise Chicken dinner and dancing to Double Crossed Band. The Gold Nugget Queen’s court, along with the Grand Marshall will be guests of honor. Western wear encouraged! Tickets at door.

4th Annual Garden Blitz Installations

Friday, April 14 – Sunday, April 16, 9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. as needed

Sunday, April 30, 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Paradise Horse Arena

Off Moore Road, Paradise Family friendly event: food, booths, games, and raffle.

Community Garden, 5704 Chapel Dr., Paradise Volunteer to install Garden Boxes in your community. Fri. box construction, Sat./Sun. installations. More info bclocalfood.org/garden-blitz/

Elks Women’s Club Tea Party

Saturday April 15th 11:00 a.m. Elks Lodge, 1100 Elk Ln, Paradise

Socialize and celebrate mothers, daughters, sisters, friends and all women. All ages are welcome. $10 per person. Contact Jeanie Sparks (530) 828-4782 for tickets or table reservation.

Paradise Chocolate, Wine, Brew & Spirits!

Saturday, May 6, 4:00-7:00 p.m. Paradise Community Park, corner of Pearson & Black Olive, Paradise Chocolate paired with superb offering of fine wines, craft beers and spirits. Savory appetizers, music, silent auction. Must be 21 or over. $50 p/p. chocolatefest.us or (530) 342-4896

Paradise Chocolate Fest

Saturday, May 13, 10:00 a.m.5:00 p.m.

Terry Ashe

Recreation Center, 6626 Skyway, Paradise, Enjoy all things chocolate with live music, craft faire and lots of fun!

Habitat for Humanity Women Build Fundraiser

Saturday & Sunday, May 20 & 21, 8:00 a.m.- 3:00 p.m. 5700 Academy Drive, Paradise Learning new skills or add a few to your tool

belt! Improve the community that you share in a is collaborative and friendly atmosphere. Come alone or bring a friend. $10 registration, $250 participation fee ($260 total pp) buttehabitat.org

TOTR presents Native Gardens

Thursdays, Fridays, Saturdays, April 6 – 22, 7:30 p.m. curtain

Sunday Matinees: April 9, 16, 23, 2:00 p.m. curtain

Theatre on the Ridge, 3735 Neal Rd., Paradise

Pablo, a high-powered lawyer, and Tania, his pregnant wife, realize the American dream when they purchase a house next door to Virginia and Frank. A disagreement spirals into an all-out war with hilarious results. $16 General, $18 Reserved, $20 Door. 530-877-5760. www.totr.org

TOTR presents White Rabbit, Red Rabbit

Thursdays, Fridays, Saturdays, June – 22, 7:30 p.m. curtain

Sunday Matinees: June 4, 11, 18

2:00 p.m. curtain

Theatre on the Ridge

3735 Neal Rd., Paradise

Every night at White Rabbit, Red Rabbit is opening night. A new cast performs each night, never knowing what to expect; and neither does the audience. This one-ofa-kind theatrical experience is not to be missed. $16 General, $18 Reserved, $20 Door. 530-877-5760. www.totr.org

Join the 4th Annual Spring Garden Blitz, April 14-16

Volunteers are needed to deliver and install boxes

By Pamm Larry

Initial Instigator and Chief Rabble Rouser Butte County Local Food Network

The Butte County Local Food Network (BCLFN) is holding the 4th Annual Spring Garden Blitz on the Ridge from April 14-16. What is a Garden Blitz? You can purchase or apply for a garden box package including a wood garden box, hardware cloth for critter control, soil, plants and mulch. Community volunteers deliver and install your box in your yard. Then you get to enjoy tasty food.

More than 280 gardens have been installed since March 2020 via this program. A generous donation from Adventist Health funded a robust scholarship program this year. Applications closed March 20th, but you can still volunteer to help install gardens. It’s such a fun event-neighbors connecting with neighbors in the old-fashioned barn raising style of community support.

The Garden Blitz is a fun event- connecting neighbors with neighbors in the spirit of an old-fashioned barn raising community effort.

Please sign up to volunteer and install a garden or two. You’ll be glad you did!

bclocalfood.org/garden-blitz/

Food prices

Equilibrium Wellness Center, a new community gathering spot offering a variety of fun activities and services

By Jess Mercer

The Equilibrium Community Wellness Center is located in the back half of Paradise Stronger’s new location on the Skyway! Trauma expert Jess Mercer was tasked with creating a wellness space for the community to enjoy, share time in, and more importantly, gather with their families and neighbors.

Mercer imagined a space resembling a cozy living room where all are welcome. The inspiration came from witnessing several peers, friends, family and community members struggle without a gathering space or even a living room since the Camp Fire.

Giving the community an enriching space to play, share joy, craft, cook, game, talk, and most of all be present feels…essential. The space will be used for community collaboration, engagement, volunteerism and civic service, and provide a platform for social/emotional growth.

Equilibrium is a space of balance between refuge and resilience

Today the space is full of family games, pool, air hockey, foosball, and table tennis. The shelves are lined with board games, books, and art supplies for all. The walls are decorated with ready-to-play instruments, a big screen for fun movies, and even sensory room for anyone needing a moment of peace.

The community kitchen often offers yummy snacks, and hosts cooking nights. The space is available for birthdays, baby showers, and conferences. Equilibrium can’t wait to host your next event too! The space will continue to evolve with the community’s needs along the road to recovery.

The Equilibrium Wellness Center will serve as a space for community members now and far into the future as the Ridge continues to grow. Check out the website to view the activity calendar, book an event, or plan a visit!

Paradise Stronger Equilibrium Wellness Center 6848 Skyway Suite P 530-327-7235

Paradise Boutique Apartments add 63

By Jake Morely Project Manager, Guillon inc.

market rate units

The ownership group of Paradise Boutique Apartments, located at 5900 Canyon View Drive is bringing an additional 63 units to the Paradise market with the recent approval by the Town of Paradise Planning Commission. These additional market rate units consist of studio and 1-and 2-bedroom units, with rents starting at an affordable $620 a month for a studio, with utilities included for an additional $125. Many of the units will be upgraded to include an oven and range as well as storage. Additional parking will be installed onsite to accommodate the future tenants.

When the owners first purchased the property in 2022, it was known

as the Feather Canyon Independent Living Facility. At that time, 45 units were converted to apartments with an additional 14 units utilized as shortterm rentals predominately utilized by construction workers.

Residents range from small families to singles--the young to the young at heart. Paradise Boutique Apartments features welcome space for social events and a resident gathering place by the fireplace in the great room. Residents also enjoy the game room, billiard tournaments, library and workout room. The site offers spectacular views, walking paths, and both indoor and outdoor gathering locations.

To tour the property and the upcoming units, schedule an appointment with the on-site property manager, Jeff Duncan at 530-519-4880.

continue to rise with no end in sight. Some experts say that they could double again this year. While we hope they are wrong, it never hurts to be a bit more prepared so that your family has plenty of healthy food to eat.

Equilibrium offers a spot to enjoy movies, play games or instruments, a sensory room and a kitchen for hosting cooking nights.

A group of Spring Garden Blitz volunteers are celebrating their completion of installing 47 gardens last year.

Allen Myers, long time Ridge resident and friends preparing a garden box for planting.

Changing the world, one tasty bite at a time because local food is Homeland Security.

One of Paradise Boutique Apartments one-bedroom kitchenette units.

The Best Place for Moms offers support to families

By Allison Denofrio

Paradise Ridge Chamber of Commerce Board Director Owner, Green Garden Art

The road to raising a family is paved with the unexpected. After pulling an all-nighter with a distressed, inconsolable baby, where does one go to find solutions?

With the many social media platforms at our fingertips, researching, watching videos and gathering information can certainly help at any time of the day or night. But there’s nothing better than talking to a human face-to-face, receiving personal consultations and caring, hands-on training. Support for new parents is now available at “The Best Place for Moms” located at 5923 Clark Road in Paradise.

Mikalia Dyer and Teresa Rein are International Board-Certified Lactation Consultants, (IBCLC) and are right here on the Ridge welcoming new clients. They

Moose to break ground on new family center

The public is invited to join in the Loyal Order of Moose #2227 for the groundbreaking of Paradise’s new Paradise Moose Family Center. The event will be held on Friday, April 21, from 3 to 8 p.m. at the temporary Paradise Moose Family Center, located at 5275 Skyway in Paradise.

Larry Meade, representing Moose International will be in attendance along with other California/ Nevada State Association officers. The current board members are looking forward to manning the shovels and getting the long-awaited project off the ground.

The Paradise Moose have long provided the Ridge with social, educational and community service. They also bring a unique brand of fun and energy to their meetings and functions. For more information call Cy Morris, (530) 514-0907

have children of their own and have “been there - done that.” Both are long time Paradise residents who stuck around after the Camp Fire, seeing many young families returning to the Ridge. They saw the need to support moms with pre-natal care and breastfeeding, and also to serve childcare providers with refresher courses focusing on postnatal through preschool age children.

Mikalia was an infant, toddler, and preschool teacher before she had her children. Breastfeeding struggles with her own children played a big part of her becoming an IBCLC in 2014. Teresa graduated from nursing school in 1991. She received IBCLC care after the birth of her first child who has special needs. This inspired her to become a professional consultant herself. These two caring ladies are excited to help the Paradise Ridge grow and are ready to help families have healthy and happy experiences.

These two caring ladies are excited to help the Paradise Ridge grow by supporting healthy, happy family experiences.

Senior Center to return as Paradise Community Center

By Lindsay Steinberg Vice President, Blue Flamingo Marketing

Pre-fire Paradisians knew and loved what was once the Senior Center for its central location, spacious rooms, and open arms for all types of events. While the building was lost in the Camp Fire, the center’s spirit lives on!

Public input suggested a desire to rebuild. The goal is a space for residents in Paradise and the surrounding communities to come together for events, meetings, and activities! In mid-2022, a public outreach campaign invited the public to share their thoughts and ideas on what a new center might look like. More than 550 community members responded via an online survey and inperson. Visit paradisecommunitycenter. com for more information on the rebuilding progress.

Mikalia Dyer and Teresa Rein, both International BoardCertified Lactation Consultants, are welcomed to the Ridge by Teri DuBose, representing Congressman Doug LaMalfa.

A rendering of what is slated to come for the Paradise Community Center, formerly the Paradise Senior Center. It will be in the same location across the parking lot from Paradise Performing Art Center.

Paradise Life Resource Team counseling and life coaching

The Paradise Life Resource Team (PLRT), located at 5910 Clark Road Suite 1, is a trusted resource for adults, children, families, and couples looking for professional emotional and psychological support. Their diverse team specializes in anxiety, depression, life transitions, behavioral issues, trauma recovery, family dynamics, addictions, and so much more. Each therapist offers a unique perspective that helps patients find relief from symptoms, transcend the boundaries of mental health conditions, and craft a life they are proud to lead.

PLRT provides healing and change to the communities of Butte County, offering solutions that are easily adaptable and lowstress. They combine strategies for assisting with the many difficult aspects and challenges that have become normal in our daily lives. Clients are encouraged to actively learn about themselves and are challenged to explore new ways of being and thinking, all in a safe and comforting environment. PLRT is a place that offers guidance when life hurts, throws curve balls, or becomes overwhelming.

(530) 762-7151

www.paradiseliferesourceteam.com

CiminoCare welcomes Sunshine Assisted Living

Sunshine Assisted Living has been offering personalized assisted living in the Paradise community for more than 35 years. In December, Sunshine Assisted Living officially became part of CiminoCare.

The CiminoCare family team’s foundation is in three generations of caring, traced back to humble roots in Florence, Italy and their mother, Wilma. Mark Cimino and his sister MaryAnn Cimino Shinn now operate the company that manages independent, assisted living and memory care communities throughout northern California with a dedicated focus on care and service.

The CiminoCare team has enjoyed getting to know the residents, family members, team members and the Paradise community. “It is evident that the Sunshine team has the commitment to serve older adults in need, the love of community and the resilience to do the hard work to thrive” states Mark Cimino, CEO of CiminoCare. He continues “love of family and a compassionate, resident focused-culture are two of my strongest values. The team at Sunshine live those values every day.”

This spring, Sunshine Assisted Living will expand its services from Sunshine Cottage by re-opening Sunshine House, a beautifully renovated 17-room assisted living

530-521-5645

EXPERTS IN NEW HOME

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My name is Bob Smalley and I would like to encourage you to give us a call if you are thinking about building a new home. We will be there with safe and productive workers ready to provide the highest quality of workmanship available to complete your next project.

home that closed after the Camp Fire. “Our community needs us and our services. It has not always been easy, but we are determined to serve more residents. We look forward to welcoming you to our open house this spring” shares Jennah Baker, administrator.

Stop by the Cottage for a tour any time and plan to attend the re-opening of Sunshine House in the next few months.

To learn more visit CiminoCare’s website or call Jennah at (530) 877-3363.

Ross Dress for Less is coming to Paradise

The lease has been signed! Ross will be coming to the Paradise Plaza, corner of Clark and Wagstaff. They will occupy 18,000 sf located next to Tractor Supply, in the old Kmart building. We are told they will be pushing to get this location open quickly, with a goal of opening late 2023. They are extremely confident it will be a successful location, based on the need and the void of a store like Ross on the Ridge. Ross will be a great addition to the plaza, joining Tractor Supply, Subway Sandwiches, Mountain Mike’s Pizza, Save Mart and the recently opened Big Lots. Their focus has been on bringing customers a constant stream of high-quality department and specialty store brands at extraordinary savings (bargains!) while providing an easy, fun and organized shopping experience.

Specializing in iPhone and Android repairs!

Go from broken to fixed in a short amount of time! Specialists on hands for most repairs, including board level data recovery.

We also specialize in Xbox repairs, Playstation Repairs, Nintendo Repairs, and most other gaming devices!

530-485-2505

Sunshine Assisted Living welcomes new owners and expands service by re-opening Sunshine House.

PRCoC thanks Kimball Shirey for dedicated service

By Monica Nolan Executive Director, Paradise Ridge Chamber of Commerce

After distinguished service, we offer a debt of gratitude to Past President Kimball Shirey, Heritage Insurance Agency, for strong and sustained leadership.

During the past 10+ years, Kimball served on the Paradise Ridge Chamber of Commerce Board as director, vice president and 2014 president. In 2020, he returned to the board to share his leadership skills once again, stepping up as vice president and then president for 2021 and 2022.

His 2014 presidency marked a year of recovery for a Chamber in financial straits. Kimball’s steely focus on conservation and revenue meant that we finished the year in the black, and were poised for the growth we enjoy today. Many presidents like to leave their mark on an organization through a signature project. Kimball oversaw two bylaws revisions. While Kimball joked that this is sort of an underground achievement, our governing docs provide the foundation of all we are and all we do. As an insurance professional, Kimball ensured that our belt was supported with suspenders.

Kimball’s insurance expertise served the Chamber and its membership as we waded through the quagmire of the Fire Victims Trust. As an aside, we accepted pennies on the dollar of the original claim, as our chamber, despite two catastrophes, did not experience the losses originally projected—largely due to outstanding leadership.

Kimball also helped to elevate the Installation Dinner, and may be remembered for his dramatic and delicious production of tableside Bananas Foster for lucky bidders. Kimball was the driving force behind attracting superior talent to Party in the Park, and compensating them like the professionals they are.

Kimball showed up for countless chamber, community, government and industry meetings, ribbon cuttings, mixers, business walks, and events--sometimes with a flaming frying pan full of bananas-and always with sound leadership and humor.

Thank you Kimball, for your service to the Paradise Ridge Chamber of Commerce and the Ridge community.

CHAMBER PRESIDENT WELCOME

A Message from your Chamber President

By Heidi Elick, BFA President, Paradise Ridge Chamber of Commerce Owner, Ridge Financial Planning

We are off to a great start of the year. We have increased our membership to 460 members. This gives our Paradise Ridge Chamber of Commerce (PRCOC) sustainability and more businesses to advocate for. We will soon be gearing up for Party in the Park, always a great way to connect with others in our community. Our mission is the ABCs - Advocate, Benefit, C onnect.

Advocate: We are actively advocating on behalf of businesses by listening to their concerns and challenges as well as working with all levels of government to ensure they are aware to the obstacles and constraints they are facing.

Benefit: We offer opportunities to promote your business and education on a range of business and leadership topics.

Connect: We will host events with expert speakers and community leaders. Watch for our May social networking event co-hosted with Rotary Club of Paradise.

I am honored to serve as President of the Paradise Ridge Chamber of Commerce. I am excited to lead our distinguished Board of Directors in our mission to continue to strive to be a great resource for our membership, business community, and residents of our ridge. The Board of Directors and staff work tirelessly on behalf of the membership and the community to realize the vision for “a strong, sustainable, vibrant, and diverse community.”

If you like what we are doing, spread the word, and let other businesses know. We appreciate your membership, and we appreciate your referrals as well. If you are not a member, please consider joining us. Check us out at www.Paradisechamber.com

Photo courtesy of Money Bee Photography

PRCoC thanks Past President Kimball Shirey for strong and sustained leadership.

Paradise’s Long Term Recovery Plan wins Helen Putnam award for Excellence in Planning

The Town of Paradise recently received the esteemed 2022 Helen Putnam Award for Excellence in Planning and Environmental Quality from The League of California Cities.

This award was given for work on the Long Term Community Recovery Plan, a community-created plan developed by residents of the Ridge to guide Paradise through the next several years of regrowth.

Upper Ridge Community Plan receives national award

Congratulations to Butte County and the rest of the project team for this national recognition!

The American Planning Association (APA) Small Town and Rural (STaR) Planning Division has awarded the Butte County Upper Ridge Community Plan the 2022 Vernon Deines Award for Outstanding Comprehensive Plan for a Large Jurisdiction. This national award recognizes comprehensive plans or special projects that exhibit excellence in the development of a small town or rural neighborhood, community, county, or region.

After suffering devasting losses in the 2018 Camp Fire, the Upper Ridge community came together to develop a com-

munity-supported, long-term vision for a thriving, resilient, and sustainable future. The fire’s devastation highlighted the area’s vulnerability to wildland fires and significantly impacted its landscape, community members, and priorities. The Upper Ridge Community Plan establishes a roadmap for rebuilding that addresses the community’s immediate needs while ensuring a healthier, safer, and more resilient future. Learn more about the project by visiting https://www.buttecounty. net/dds/urcp

The plan identified 39 recovery projects to help Paradise move forward after the most destructive fire in California history, the 2018 Camp Fire. With recovery estimated to last at least a decade, a strategic plan was vital to the successful restoration of homes, businesses, schools, water systems, parks, roads, and cultural heritage.

The plan was created through a dynamic public engagement process with several town meetings and workshops that captured residents’ ideas, visions, and goals for the future of Paradise.

The Helen Putnam Awards were established in 1982 by the League of California Cities, and are presented annually to recognize outstanding achievements by California’s 482 cities.

“We knew we needed a plan to help

navigate the restoration of the Town,” said Colette Curtis, Recovery and Economic Development Director. “But we knew it would only be successful if it was created by, and for, the residents of the Town.”

The creation of the plan was informed by a robust public engagement process including a number of town meetings and workshops, designed to capture residents’ ideas, visions, and goals for the future of Paradise.

Established in 1982 by the League of California Cities, the Helen Putnam Award for Excellence is given annually and recognizes outstanding achievements by California’s 482 cities.

The League of California Cities recently awarded the Town of Paradise The Helen Putnam Award for Excellence in Planning and Environmental Quality.

Community members provided crucial input to the award-winning Upper Ridge Community Plan.

Business Briefs

Business Briefs spotlight members of the Paradise Ridge Chamber of Commerce, providing information to Ridge residents and visibility to Ridge businesses. All contact information for featured businesses is available in ParadiseChamber.com’s online business directory: www.paradisechamber.com/list/. This benefit is available to all members; for guidelines and information, email Monica@ ParadiseChamber.com

and due April 17-21st. Applications for future families will likely open twice a year. Check buttehabitat.org for exact dates and please spread the word.

A new home with an affordable mortgage supports families as they focus on parenting, school, and work. Affordable homeownership leads to stronger communities and healthier families.

Help celebrate Habitat’s 30th Anniversary with a wall-signing on April 15, 2023, 10 a.m. at 5700 Academy Drive, Paradise.

Habitat celebrates 30-year anniversary of building homes in Paradise

2023 marks the 30 Year Anniversary of Habitat for Humanity of Butte County. They are dedicated to a world where everyone has a decent place to call home— especially Paradise!

Habitat’s celebration is April 15, 10:00 a.m. at 5700 Academy Dr. Paradise. Paradise officials and homeowners will speak and guests are invited to write a message to families on the recently framed walls. Before Camp Fire, Habitat built 1-2 homes a year in Chico. After Camp Fire 2018, Habitat redirected its energy to building homes in Paradise for fire survivors, completing seven homes this past year. Eight homes are lined up for 2023 and four families have started their sweat equity. The other four families are soon to be selected. Applications are currently available

Habitat’s goal is to build ten homes a year and maintain this growth for 10-15 years, your partnership is needed. Contact Jenny Fales, Habitat for Humanity of Butte County Development Manager at (530) 343-7423 or jennyf@buttehabitat.org. To learn more, go to www.buttehabitat.org.

meetings. The evening meetings include guest speakers from the quilting world, and other fun events promoting quilting and community service, The Guild hopes to continue the evening meetings. More than 20 women attended the first evening meeting at the Paradise Elks Lodge. Future meetings will be April 18, June 20, and August 15. All meetings will be at the Elks Lodge, 6:00 to 8:00 pm. Doors open 15 minutes early for members and guests to visit and to learn more about Guild activities. For more information, contact ridgequiltersguild@gmail.com.

Johnny on the Spot now offers temporary fencing

Johnny on the Spot has added temporary fencing to its lineup of rental products.

ward pricing. Contact (530) 893-5687 or visit johnnyrentals.com.

Paradise Symphony Society seeks new board members

The Paradise Symphony Society is seeking to add several new Board Members to its ranks. These positions require an active interest in classical symphony music, a strong desire to be part of rebuilding Paradise and the Ridge, and a willingness to take on minor administrative and event participation responsibilities for the benefit of the Symphony Orchestra. Musical ability, while helpful, is not a requirement. Prospective members from Chico, Oroville and other audience areas are also eligible. To make further inquiries, contact Melissa Brown, Acting President, at missyb1405@att.net.

Speri Machuga displays recently completed quilt.

Ridge Quilters Guild now offers evening meetings

The Ridge Quilters’ Guild received a grant from the Butte Strong Fund to support outreach to the Ridge community for quilters and sewists who cannot attend daytime

Johnny on the Spot provides quality products and services when it comes to fence rental in Butte, Tehama and Glenn Counties, guaranteeing a quick turnaround on delivery and set up to ensure your site is protected when emergencies arise. Fencing offers a solid barrier to protect your site for both events or construction, with 6ft tall fencing panels made from durable steel and installed by our expert team.

Whether you are planning a small fundraiser, high profile event, a long-term construction project or a quick residential projectJohnny on the Spot offers the temporary fencing to meet your needs. Our office staff is ready to provide immediate, free estimates, with our simple and straightfor-

Paradise Tan reopens

Paradise Tan (formerly Paradise Beach) is under new ownership and has been reopened with new merchandise, improved prices and extended hours. Visit Paradise Tan 10AM-6PM M-F at 7967 Skyway Ste D. in Paradise. Owner/operators Vicky Spiersch and Amanda Clark are ready to help you look and feel your best. Paradise Tan features two stand up tanning beds, and two lay down tanning beds and plans exciting upgrades this year! This small family business is proud to serve the Ridge community as it returns to its former glory.

Amy Kaur is a professional artist in Paradise. Amy earned a Master’s in Fine Arts. Now she’s teaching at the Paradise Art Center. Amy is proficient in watercolors, acrylic, pastel, oils, pencil shading, drawing and more. Currently Amy is giving watercolor classes at the Paradise Art Canter.

Amy also does Henna Body Art and Face Painting at local festivals and for private parties. Amy held a couple of workshops on Henna Body Art at the Paradise Art Center; which was a BIG HIT.

Sinclair Top Tier

Watercolor

Amy Kaur

Visit dejavunursery.com and take a 5-minute survey for a chance to win a $1,500 Gift Certificate!

Deja Vu Nursery now open 7 days a week

Déjà Vu is located at 5424 Foster Road (formerly Mendon’s Nursery) in Paradise and offers the largest selection of plants in the North State, with more than 30,000 items in stock! New spring inventory arriving every week. Déjà Vu’s knowledgeable staff provides personalized customer service for all your landscaping and gardening needs, as well as fire survivor discounts, landscape design and consulting, delivery and planting services. In addition to an outstanding variety plants, Déjà Vu supplies Bumper Crop Soils, fertilizers, organic garden products, yard art, gift certificates, and so much more.

Adventist Health welcomes 2 new practitioners to the Ridge

Amanda Creott, LCSW, serving ages 18 and older

Harry Jakobson, LCSW, working with children 3-18

Nic’s

for

dining, gathering, catering

There’s something for everyone at Nic’s, whether the nourishment is in the form of food or company.

For a place serving up such a wide range of offerings from delicately balanced charcuterie boards, salads, and flatbreads to hearty sandwiches- its arguable that Nic’s main appeal is that it’s simply a cool, comfortable place to gather. Nic’s offers a robust assortment of wines, cheese plates, and charcuterie, or you can enjoy their most popular grilled peach, prosciutto, and brie flatbread.

Nic’s has added lasagna, chicken Parmesan and manicotti to their menu.

vibe at Nic’s. They also offer catering. Whatever the occasion, Nic’s has a menu that is sure to please.

Some new specials to choose from include Lasagna, Chicken Parmesan or Manicotti meals, served with salad and breadsticks. Beer and wine tastings, live music, and trivia nights are all part of the community-building

Nic’s Deli and Wine Bar

6256 Skyway, Paradise, (530) 413-9422 Tues thru Sat. 11 a.m. – 7 p.m. Thur. and Friday evening till 8 p.m.

Amanda Creott is a licensed clinical social worker providing professional and compassionate therapy for mental health conditions such as anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). She offers options for adults ages 18 and older to support personalized wellness and recovery plans, improve quality of life and achievement of life goals.

Amanda’s scope of practice includes trauma-informed care, client centered therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), and eye movement desensitization reprocessing (EMDR) therapy, along with other modes. Amanda focuses on providing a safe, supportive space for clients to process their innermost thoughts.

Amanda is a native Californian, and enjoys being in nature, as well as art and music. She also is a great animal lover and feels fortunate to have two silly dogs and a cat.

Harry Jakobson is a licensed clinical social worker with extensive experience in mental health counseling including psychotherapy, family therapy, play therapy, sand-tray therapy, and much more. He specializes in addressing the behavioral health needs of children, and treats numerous conditions including anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder, AHDH/ADD, and emotional distress.

Harry works with children ages 3 – 18 and offers several treatment options such as eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) therapy, cognitive behavior therapy (CBT), trauma-informed CBT, brain spotting, strength-based therapy and motivational interviewing. He is passionate about working with children and families and enjoys being able to help others improve their lives.

A native of northern California, Harry has more than 20 years of professional experience in behavioral health and social services.

Gold Nugget Museum progresses amid challenges

Like many organizations on the Ridge, the Gold Nugget Museum continues to be challenged by needs that exceed our resources. Our museums have received a great deal of assistance over the last several years; the giving nature of our Ridge community continues to astound us. Our designs are in place and phase one is fully in swing: Exhibition space, membership solicitation, and of course, events.

Temporarily thwarted by the flooding of our Depot Museum, we’re getting close to reopening the historical site in March 2023. This, in conjunction with the revival of our school program will complement the Yellowstone Kelly Heritage Trail and its pioneer placards.

We are still awaiting any compensation from the Fire Victim Trust; once received, we’ll be better positioned to move forward. In the meantime, we’ll be securing our artifact collection, advancing our grant-assisted HVAC and solar power plans, and engaging in Gold Nugget Days. Funding from Explore Butte County will bring back a portion of our resources, helping to revive Days of Living History.

Still no word from the Paradise Recreation and Parks District on renewing our lease for the original museum site. Understandably, they’re having difficulty securing compensation from their insurance company for the property loss. We’ve been assured that the artifacts and monuments on-site will remain secure until decisions are made.

Individual and commercial membership is our primary income source and packaging will be coming out soon to provide greater benefits to those who support us.

Visit us the main museum, 475 Pearson Road, Monday thru Thursday, 12-4 p.m.

Marking the passing of Alan Rigg

Alan Rigg shared his musical gift throughout Paradise and Butte County, playing for the last several years in assorted venues, including Party in the Park with a cohort of talent sharing “a gumbo of Jazz, Blues, New Orleans, R&B, R&R, Zydeco and MORE!”

The bare bones of his life, lifted from his Facebook page, and in his own words are as follows:

“Began piano at age 6, guitar at 12. Started playing in bands a year later about 1965. Played jazz and blues during the 70’s. Later played oldies (50’s & 60’s music) appeared with Chuck Berry, Drifters, Coasters, Sam Moore, Little Anthony, Marvelettes, Herman’s Hermits and many more. 1995 moved to New Orleans where I performed at most of the major clubs like Tipitina’s, House of Blues, The Maple Leaf, and more. Now living in N. CA in the mountains.”

Alan moved to Paradise from New Orleans in 2005, after losing his home, and more, to Hurricane Katrina. Alan also lost his Paradise home to the Camp Fire.

Alan was a Sunday fixture at the Paradise Center for Spiritual Living, accompanying services for several years. He was also often found playing for guests at Spencer Shirey Winery. Post Camp Fire, he performed at the Chico Center for Spiritual Living and at the Paradise Lutheran Church where he will be honored with a special service.

No local Mardi Gras celebration was complete without the Alan Rigg Band. Just seven days before his passing, Alan played for the Chico Elks Mardi Gras Party.

We will miss Alan’s talent, kindness, humor, and the unforgettable instrument that was his speaking voice.

Judy Clemens, Executive Director of Theatre on the Ridge, shares this remembrance:

Alan was also an enthusiastic appreciator and sup -

porter of fellow artists in our community. He never missed a performance, at Theatre on the Ridge, as a much loved season ticket holder and cheerleader. He delighted in chatting with the actors after the show and was always generous with praise and applause. I will miss that big smiling man coming through the door and giving me one of his bear hugs. Our matinees will be missing his light and laughter, and I will forever miss his friendship and his love for what we do here at TOTR.

Our friend Melissa Schuster marked his passing:

February 25, was a life-affirming day. As many of you already know, our dear friend, Alan Rigg, made his transition. The passing of a dear friend leaves a hole in our hearts, but Alan made his own choices, and his choices were lovingly honored by all of those around him.

From his doctor and nurses, to his friends - everyone. At one point, I counted over a dozen people in the tiny ICU room. There was a rousing rendition of “Stand by Me” that some couldn’t help dancing to, even while attending to Alan.

Alan orchestrated it all - he was 100% in charge. I am sure his band mates have seen this side of him, but, after all his life challenges that he had no control over, including natural disasters and wildfires, it was wonderful to see him taking charge of his own transition.

And finally, Alan in his own words:

“How many people you know can say they were fired by Cab Calloway? I’m guessing ONE! Back in the 70’s I was sent to play bass on a gig. Of course, I couldn’t cut the charts! Cab took me to the bar, bought me a drink and fired my ass! Definitely a highlight of my career.

Farewell, Alan, and thank you for sharing your immense talent with us.

Check-In: 3:00 P.M.

Check-Out: 11:00 A.M.

Pets may be accepted. Please contact the hotel directly for full details.

Virus protocols strictly followed

Photo courtesy of Ken Pordes

Farewell, Alan Rigg: 1952-2023

Together We Thrive : Chamber gains 120 members

Early in 2023, the Paradise Ridge Chamber of Commerce hosted a Membership Event like no other. February’s Together We Thrive Membership Campaign was a HUGE success! What an amazing week! More than 45 volunteers from the local business community helped us grow our membership by almost 35%! We welcomed 120 new members!

A chamber’s impact is defined by involvement from local businesses and community leadership. Volunteers from the local business community worked against the clock and against each other to sign up new Chamber members and generate a

greater awareness of the important role of the Paradise Ridge Chamber of Commerce in the Rise of the Ridge.

The event was organized by edu-trainer Jimmy Cusano and a group called Your Chamber Connection. Their specialty is creative, high energy membership campaigns for ‘out of the box’ excitement and membership development. An even greater benefit than the budget boost from new members is new advocates invested in our mission to share local pride, professional expertise and a commitment to growth. Together, we promote the civic and commercial progress of our community.

Many thanks to our generous sponsors for investing in the development of PRCoC.

Hours: Thur-Sat 10-5 • Sun 11-4 6393 Skyway, Paradise • 530-353-8445

Chamber secretary Jeni Harris, owner of Curves Paradise, talks membership. Shell Morley of Dadco Construction headed a well-dressed neon yellow team.

Iris Natividad, owner of Nothing But Love, Paradise; Catherine Madsack, Recruiting Coordinator, Chico State Enterprises; Christine Potthast, McKinnon & Associates and C&C Roofing; and Chamber President Heidi Elick, Ridge Financial Planning engaged in friendly competition to grow membership at PRCoC.

More than 45 volunteers celebrated PRCoC’s 120 new members.

Event “Godfather” Wayne Kurtz, co-owner of Paradise Grocery Outlet, and “Godmother” PRCoC Executive Director Monica Nolan welcome new member Ben Simonds of Farmers Brewing Co.

Jimmy Cusano of Your Chamber Connection welcomes campaign headline sponsor Ev Duran, owner of U.T.B. Studios.

Jen Goodlin and Staci Galla of Rebuild Paradise Foundation served on the pink “Runners” team, delivering new member packets.

All photos taken by Emma Miller

Since 1995

Inspections, Pumping, Repairs, and Construction

Steve and Shirlena Dobrich

McKinnon and Associates is here to help with all of your bookkeeping, payroll and tax return needs. We have pride in our town and are very proud to still be able to serve you here on the ridge. Go Bobcats!!!

Paradise Chamber Honors Business

In December 2022, The Paradise Ridge Chamber of Commerce hosted a dinner to install its 2023 Board of Directors and to honor individuals and businesses who made a difference in our business community during the past three years.

Annual Chamber Awards 2022

Ed Salome Award for Service to the Paradise Ridge Chamber of Commerce: Steve & Lori Crowder, A Stitch Above Paradise

Steve and Lori Crowder, owners of A Stitch Above Paradise were honored with The Ed Salome Award for service to the Paradise Ridge Chamber of Commerce. Both Crowders have served on our Board of Directors, and have been unfailingly dedicated, and cheerful volunteers, supporting other businesses, and providing event support.

Special Recognition: Charles Brooks, Founder, Rebuild Paradise Foundation

Charles Brooks received Special Recognition as the founder of Rebuild Paradise Foundation (RPF). Immediately following the Camp Fire, Brooks sprang into action in support of the rebuild, travelling to Washington D.C to advocate for relief. RPF has distributed nearly 2 million dollars in missing middle and septic grants and has created mapping programs and a Residential Floor Plan Library.

Resilience Award: Laurie & Jim Noble, Noble Orchard Company

Business of the Year: Wayne & Livia Kurtz, Paradise Grocery Outlet

Paradise Grocery Outlet was honored as Business of the Year. Wayne and Livia Kurtz, center, are pictured with team members. Grocery Outlet received several nominations

Rising Star Award: Iris Natividad, Nothing but Love Paradise

Owner of “Nothing But Love Paradise” Iris Natividad was honored with the Rising Star Award. In addition to opening “Nothing But Love” as a tribute to her life partner lost to the Camp Fire, Iris supports local small businesses and artists, and serves on the Board of the Paradise Art Center and is a life-time member of the Gold Nugget Museum.

Special Recognition: Lawrence St. Germain, Paradise Veterans Group

for investment in Ridge non-profits and causes, superior workplace environment, and growing our community by importing family members.

Non-profit Organization of the Year: Rotary Club of Paradise

Non-Profit of the

Year Paradise Rotary Club has been providing community service to Paradise for more than 76 years. Rotary projects include park improvements, scholarships, police and fire equipment, Paradise Ice Rink, and school support. After the Camp Fire, the Paradise Rotary Foundation raised over 2 million dollars.

Who could be more deserving of the Resilience award than Noble Orchards, celebrating its 102nd anniversary this year? Before the Camp Fire wiped out almost all the orchard buildings, irrigation, and tools, Jim and Laurie Noble fought bears to protect their apples. Post fire, Noble Orchards has pivoted to a “Pick-Your-Own” model and established a nursery to help the Ridge regrow.

Special Thanks

• Table Decorating Contestants:

• Achieve Charter School

• Paradise Association of Realtors

• Poptastic

• Heritage Insurance Agency

• Butte College

• Camp Fire Collaborative

• Youth for Change

• Rebuild Paradise Foundation

• The quartet of musicians from the Paradise Symphony Orchestra

• Lawrence St. Germain and the Paradise Veterans Memorial Hall

• Nic’s

• Silent Auction Donors

• Money Bee Photography

• Event coordinators: Shannon Hurte and Dana Gajda

• Special effects: Mark Thorp

• Songstress: Sandy Miller

Special Recognition for community service went to Lawrence St. Germain, Commander of the Paradise American Legion Chapter. Lawrence’s pet project is the Kids on the Ridge Christmas party, delighting hundreds of children each year. In Lawrence’s own words: “I have lived in a lot of places and this, by far, has been the best. The people are gracious, thoughtful, and caring. The reason I do what I do is hopefully to bring back a reason for living here.”

Representatives from Camp Fire Collaborative both attended and decorated a table.

Among the nearly 200 guests were Braden Pisani, District Representative, Assemblyman James Gallagher’s office; Kim May Champlin, Chris Champlin, President, Adventist Health and Rideout; and Teri DuBose, District Representative, Congressman Doug LaMalfa’s office.

Chamber Board members Jeni Harris, Allison Denofrio and Judy Clemens staff the check-in table with the ever-present support of our uniformed service.

© Kelly Mora, Owner and Mandy Jensen, Commercial Account Specialist, of Heritage Insurance Agency pose with their award-winning table.

Visit the Paradise Ridge Chamber of Commerce Facebook page for more photos.

Community and Installs 2023 Directors

Party in the Park weekly summer celebration

The Paradise Ridge Chamber of Commerce is proud to announce the return of Party in the Park Music & Marketplace, a summertime community celebration in the historic heart of Paradise. With its farmers’ market, food trucks, beer and wine, kids’ zone, talented bands and performers, arts, crafts, local organizations and eclectic products, Party in the Park is a celebration of all that makes us Paradise.

As promotions launch for the 20232 season, sponsors are recognized with extended exposure as supporters of one of the Ridge’s most-loved events. Past events have welcomed record crowds. Your support demonstrates dedication to our beautiful mountain home while associating your brand with community health, culture and family fun. Sponsors express appreciation to their patrons and enhance quality of life on the Ridge by helping to host the party.

Party in the Park is made possible through a partnership with the Town of Paradise.

More information, including vendor and sponsor opportunities, on paradisechamber.com/ party-in-the-park or join our email list by emailing info@paradisechamber.com.

2023 event information:

Every Wednesday Night for Eight Weeks: June 14 – August 2 6:00 p.m.-8:30 p.m.

Paradise Community Park 5570 Black Olive Drive at Pearson Road Paradise, California

PRCoC welcomes Wayne Kurtz to Board of Directors

Wayne Kurtz is co-owner/operator of Paradise Grocery Outlet. Wayne’s past professional and business -related experience includes retail ownership and management, and service in the hospitality industry. He has been involved in the Lake County, Clearlake and Ukiah Chambers of Commerce as well as the Ukiah Business Association. Paradise Grocery Outlet owners and staff are deeply involved in the Ridge community and responsive to its needs, supporting at least 50 local organizations with donations, volunteering, and special programs.

Paradise Grocery Outlet also supports workforce development by providing work experience programs and on the job training as well as Paradise High School Functional Life Skills Class work experience. Wayne contributes to the success of the chamber by sharing past chamber ideas and solutions and helping wherever possible. He’s here to serve the community and organizations that serve people. With seven years as a commission sales lead leader and ten more in retail sales, Wayne has already been highly successful in helping to attract new members.

Chamber welcomes new staff member

Operations Associate Emma Miller has joined the Chamber office team as Operations Associate. A Paradise native, Emma attended Paradise High School and Butte College. Emma brings direct experience as a small business owner to her new role, as well as a passion for building community. Emma may be reached at the Chamber front desk or at Emma@ ParadiseChamber.com.

Introducing the 2023 Paradise Ridge Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors:

Back row: Heidi Elick, President, Ridge Financial Planning; Allison Denofrio, Ambassador, Green Garden Art; Linda L. Zorn, Butte College, Economic & Workforce Development; Wayne Kurtz, Paradise Grocery Outlet; Carol Peterson, Boys & Girls Club; Jerre Bates, Paradise Elks & Paradise Lutheran Church; Catherine Madsack, Secretary, Chico State Enterprises; Warren Bullock, Vice President, American Homes & Land; Kimball Shirey, Past President, Heritage Insurance Agency. Front row: Joleen Levey, Adventist Health and Feather River Health Foundation; Shannon Hurte, Edward Jones Investments; Jeni Harris, Curves Paradise; Dana Gajda, Paradise Rotary Club. Not pictured: Judy Clemens, Treasurer, Theatre on the Ridge

Chamber Board member and Installation

Dinner coordinator Shannon Hurte with former Chamber Board member Pam Hartley. Nic’s staff prepared and served a delicious meal.

Operations Associate Emma Miller.

Wayne Kurtz is co-owner/operator of Paradise Grocery Outlet.

Chamber Past President Kimball Shirey was thanked for strong leadership, dedication, and commitment to the Ridge. Also pictured are Assemblyman James Gallagher and Chamber Executive Director Monica Nolan.

Ev Duran of U.T.B. Studios pictured with his cousin, Mark Thorp, Business Advocate for the Paradise Ridge Chamber of Commerce and Executive Director, Gold Nugget Museum.

2023 Chamber President Heidi Elick with Chamber Executive Director Monica Nolan.

Party in the Park welcomes talented bands and performers such as the Positive I Arial Yoga troupe.

Photo courtesy of Barry Cunningham, Yowzers

For information about ribbon cuttings and other business events, visit paradisechamber.com’s online.communitycalendar. To receive email invitations, join the chamber’s mailing list. Email info@paradisechamber.com. To schedule a ribbon cutting or business event contact, Monica@paradisechamber.com.

Emergent 3D: implementing tomorrow’s construction technology

Emergent 3D construction is now available on the Ridge, deploying cutting-edge construction robotics to create fire resistant and eco-friendly homes and commercial buildings. 3D printing technology opens up greater design possibilities and is available on demand, allowing for rapid on-site build times.

Emergent 3D was founded by Matthew Gile in partnership with Don Ajamian of Don Ajamian Construction. They met while members of the disaster recovery team for the Carr Fire. Gile has been

following 3D printing for structures for several years and Ajamian saw its application in home building. Today they are bringing the opportunity for building an exciting 3D home or business to the Ridge.

The first 3d printed home in California is a three bedroom, two bath, 1200 sq ft house residing at 4000 Victor Avenue in Redding. Emergent 3D’s home designs are permitted under the CA 2020 building code. Contact Emergent 3D at (530) 364-4925. View projects at www. emergent-3d.com/projects.

AmeriCorps Seniors seeks active senior volunteers to mentor, coach and more

“AmeriCorps Seniors connects older adults (ages 55+) with people and organizations that need them the most.

PASSAGES administers AmeriCorps Seniors programs within their service area to help older adults become mentors, coaches, companions, or community volunteers through the Senior Companion, Foster Grandparent, and RSVP programs. These programs are ideal for older, active adults who are willing to mentor children in reading, provide friendship and transportation for older adults, and assist community members with tasks such as yard clean-up, computer help, or food delivery. Foster Grandparents, Senior Companions, and RSVP Volunteers dedicate anywhere from 5 to 40 hours of service every week to ease the burdens of people who need help. In return for their services, Senior Companions, and Foster Grandparents,

if eligible, receive a tax-free stipend, mileage reimbursement and assistance with transportation.

PASSAGES, with the support of Chico State Enterprises, has administered the AmeriCorps Seniors Volunteers Program for more than 20 years. Program services are available in Butte and Colusa Counties. Learn more by calling 530-898-4027.

Equilibrium Community Wellness Center celebrated its grand opening by inviting the community to tour the welcoming and innovative space to gather, play, socialize, and focus on wellbeing. Project manager, Jess Mercer, employed her artistic and trauma informed skills to creating a space aligned with the mission of Paradise Stronger to address full body wellness. Experience Equilibrium at 6848 Skyway, Suite P.

Paradise Unified School District trustees and administrators broke ground on construction projects at Magalia’s Pine Ridge School. When complete, Pine Ridge will feature updated facilities for the District’s modernized schools that equip classrooms with advanced technological tools preparing students for 21st century jobs.

Chicostart and Paradise Ridge Chamber of Commerce launched the first phase of RIDGESTART - Powered by Chicostart, providing entrepreneurs, startups and small businesses education, mentorship, incubation programs, access to the opengrants portal, and valuable connections. Find out more by clicking the link on ParadiseChamber.com’s home page.

The Paradise Ridge Chamber of Commerce was on hand to welcome The BEST Place for Moms LLC at its grand opening. The BEST Place for Moms supports parenting journeys from pregnancy through preschool with lactation consults and a free weekly breastfeedingfocused support group. Find out more at www.thebestplaceformoms.com.

Habitat for Humanity of Butte County held a ribbon cutting ceremony to welcome four future Habitat homeowners to their new homes. Habitat has plans to help rebuild the Ridge by building ten homes a year in the burn scar. To learn more, visit www.buttehabitat.org.

“Wildfire Restoration House”, 1200SF, 3Bed/2Bath model.

Chamber membership demonstrates to your customers and other businesses your commitment to the community.

Chamber members are respected, legitimate, trustworthy businesses and community investors who agree to:

Promote local commerce and industry

Maintain high ethical standards in business and professions

Positively contribute to the quality of life on the Ridge

Blood Banks and Centers

Vitalant

555 Rio Lindo Ave. Chico (530) 893-5433

Bookkeeping

Chelyse’s Bookkeeping Service Oroville (530) 965-1154

Matthews, Hutton & Warren, CPAs

1530 Humboldt Road, Ste 2, Chico (530) 877-6793

Bottled Water Delivery

Mt Shasta Spring Water Company Inc

2237 Ivy Street Chico (530) 246-8800

Brewery/Taproom

Farmers Brewing Co. 880 County Road WW Princeton (530) 826-6803

Building Supply

Amvic Pacific, Inc

14314 Wrangell Court Penn Valley (530) 277-4474

Foothill Mill & Lumber Company

1698 Wagstaff Paradise (530) 877-3395

Green Builder Products

303 Potrero St #2 Santa Cruz

(831) 458-0202

NorCal Lumber Company

4601 Bernice Ave Marysville (916) 936-7617

Payless Building Supply

2600 Notre Dame Blvd Chico (530) 895-3228

Business Services

3CORE, Inc. 2515 Ceanothus Avenue Suite 105, Chico (530) 893-8732

Advanced Document Concepts

702 Nord Avenue Chico (530) 893-8711

Butte CollegeEconomic and Workforce Development

2480 Notre Dame Blvd Chico (530) 879-9069

Butte College SBDC

2480 Notre Dame Blvd. Chico

(530) 895-9017

Habitat for Humanity of Butte County

220 Meyers St. Chico (530) 343-7423

Hope Through Art Foundation

Paradise (530) 828-9263

Magalia Community Park 13917 South Park Drive

Magalia (530) 413-9158

Moms of the Ridge Paradise (530) 321-6814

North Valley Community Foundation

1811 Concord Avenue, Suite 220 Chico (530) 891-1150

Pair-O-Dice Chapter E Clampus

Vitus

P.O. Box 711 Paradise (530) 872-2052

Paradise Aerie

2960, Fraternal Order of Eagles

9079 Skyway Paradise (530) 877-8687

Paradise

Chocolate Fest

Paradise (530) 342-4896

Paradise Community Guilds

511 Pearson Road Paradise (530) 762-1490

Paradise Moose Lodge #2227

5275 Skyway

Paradise (530) 762-7066

Paradise Ridge Fire Safe Council

5619 Black Olive Drive

Paradise (530) 877-0984

Paradise Rod & Gun Club, Inc.

P.O. Box 1081 Paradise (530) 877-1345

Paradise Rotary Club

P.O. Box 820

Paradise (530) 413-7725

Paradise

Scholarship Foundation

7050 Skyway Paradise (530) 321-4917

Paradise Stronger

6848 Skyway Ste P

Paradise (530) 327-7235

Paradise Symphony Society, Inc.

P.O. Box 1892

Paradise

Paradise Veterans Group

6550 Skyway Paradise (530) 693-5891

PASH

P.O. Box 1021

Paradise (530) 876-8195

PassagesVolunteer Services

Valley Contractors Exchange 951 E. 8th Street Chico (530) 343-1981

Valley Oak Children’s Services 3120 Cohasset Road Ste 6, Chico (530) 895-3572

Chico (530) 893-3276

Community Housing Improvement Program (CHIP)

1001 Willow Street Chico (530) 891-6931

Explore Butte County

326 Huss Lane, Building E Chico (530) 918-4585

Feather River Health Foundation

5910 Clark Road, Suite T Paradise (530) 877-9361

Friends of the Library, Paradise

P.O. Box 1730

Paradise

(530) 228-0771

Gold Nugget Days Inc, dba Gold

Nugget & Paradise Depot Museums

475 Pearson Road Paradise

(530) 762-2613

Paradise Elks Lodge #2026

1100 Elk Lane Paradise (530) 877-3977

Paradise Garden Club

P.O. Box 1246 Paradise (925) 768-4797

Paradise Gem & Mineral Club

P.O. Box 692

Paradise (530) 343-0894

Paradise Horsemen’s Association

6705 Moore Road Paradise (530) 519-0455

Paradise Host Lions Club

P.O. Box 2801 Paradise (530) 762-4919

Paradise Little League

P.O. Box 282

Paradise (530) 394-0343

25 Main Street Ste 202, Chico (530) 898-4307

Rebuild Paradise Foundation

6067 Skyway Suite B, Paradise (530) 413-8056

Regenerating Paradise

Paradise (415) 248-6231

Table Mountain Lodge No. 124, F. & A.M. 5934 Clark Road Paradise (916) 202-6942

The Depot Museum

5570 Black Olive Dr Paradise (530) 877-1919

The Ridge Quilters’ Guild Paradise (530) 872-8492 Corp 2969540

Topcats on the Ridge, Inc.

P.O. Box 2281 Paradise (530) 872-8112

AGS Construction Services

1252 Wagstaff Road Paradise (530) 877-5929

CSL# 814908

American Dream Construction, Inc.

5810 Clark Rd Paradise (530) 720-0648

CSL#: 1040201

Andy Sprague Construction / Concrete Builders

14633 Richardson Springs Road Chico (530) 864-3273

CSL#:452297

AW Custom Building

6030 North Libby Road Paradise

(530) 230-8332

CSL#: 876094

B and B Builders

Magalia (530) 873-6341

CSL#: 992060

Billson Construction Co. Inc.

15 Commerce Ct. Suite 150 Chico

(530) 343-2293

CSL#: 671927

Central Valley Construction Paradise (530) 755-7133

CSL#: 1039314

Chuck Tatreau Construction

1237 Mangrove Chico

(530) 228-7243

CSL#: 984821

Conroy Construction, Inc.

1350 E 9th Street Ste 100, Chico (530) 891-1204

CSL#: 700288

CRBR Property Damage Services

- Restoration & Construction

2684 Hwy 32 Ste 100 Chico (530) 891-0333

CSL# #689238

DADCO Construction

P.O. Box 73 Paradise (530) 762-2981

CSL#: 658283

DH Construction

3851 Morrow Lane, Ste. 14, Chico (530) 892-2850 CSL#:

Alliance for Workforce Development, Inc. 500 Cohasset Road Ste 30, Chico (530) 961-5125

Butte College Training Place 2480 Notre Dame Blvd. Chico (530) 895-9015

Engineering

AGS Construction Services 1252 Wagstaff Road Paradise (530) 877-5929

CSL# 814908

Jackson and Sands

Thorntree Dr. #75 Chico (530) 354-0207

CSL#: 927742

Reed Electric Paradise

(530) 990-6892

CSL#: 1042574

Smalley General Contracting Paradise (530) 521-5645

CSL#: 952967

Urban Design 4742 Skyway Paradise (530) 809-1079

CSL#: 893826

Embroidery A Stitch Above Embroidery & Shirt Printing 2050 Lincoln Street Oroville (530) 413-9887

Dialed in Athletics 2952 Esplanade #10 Chico (530) 345-1956

Emergency Services

Butte County EMS 333 Huss Drive

891-4357

Employment Services

P.O. Box 73 Paradise (530) 762-2981

CSL#: 658283

Magneson Tractor Service, Inc 1374 Keller Ln. Paradise (530) 961-3171

CSL#: 1034559

& Shooting Ranges Black Oak Training Inc.

781-4784

Parasol Mycology 4791 Round Valley Ranch Rd Paradise (530) 413-7005 Fencing Johnny on the Spot DBA Chico Septic 5050 Cohasset Rd Ste 70, Chico (530) 893-5687 Financial Advisor

Edward JonesShannon Hurte Financial Advisor 2854 Olive Highway

Ste. A Oroville (530) 872-4339

Edward JonesTravis Barker Financial Advisor

6311 Skyway Paradise (530) 872-7000

Ridge Financial Planning

6779 Skyway Ste. A Paradise (530) 762-7211

Stifel, Mason Wealth Management Group - Financial Advisor - Matthew

K. Mason, CFP® 901 Bruce Rd #280 Chico (530) 891-1133

Sweeney & Michel LLC 196 Cohasset Road Suite 100 Chico (530) 487-1777

Financial Planners Mootz Financial Solutions 680 Rio Lindo Ave Ste 60 Chico (530) 877-7007

Prosperity Investment Management, Inc.

877-4111

Jeannie’s 491 Pearson Road Paradise (530) 762-4960

Needful Things & Antiques 8247 Skyway Paradise (530) 892-9213

Warner Design Craft Paradise (530) 514-2952

Garden Supplies

Deja Vu Gardens Galore Nursery 5424 Foster Road Paradise (530) 877-7341 Ridge Hydroponics

Skyway

(530) 624-4821 Gas - Propane

342-0303

Skyway

Heavenly Herbs & Acupuncture 8093 Skyway Paradise (530) 877-7003

Lorraine Dechter - Neora Brand Partner Paradise (530) 588-8801

Melaleuca Independent Marketing Representative PO Box 933

(530) 826-6560

Sol Sanctuary 4791 Round Valley Ranch Rd Paradise (530) 762-7108

The BEST Place for Moms LLC 5923 Clark Rd Suite F Paradise (530) 287-8222

413-3983

The ParadiseOpoly Board Game

717-9533

Thistle & Stitch 14154 Skyway Suite 7 Magalia

524-5008 Thomas Ace Hardware

Clark Rd Paradise

877-4442 Tierz of Joy Dexterity Paradise

353-5923

Treasures from Paradise

Bille Road Paradise (530) 872-4200

Warner Design Craft Paradise

514-2952

Glass Sales

Feather River Health Foundation 5910 Clark Road, Suite T

(530) 877-9361

Paradise Family & Sports Chiropractic

(530) 877-9333

872-6650

Nevin & Witt

Insurance Services

1600 Mangrove Avenue

#195 Chico (530) 894-0111

VANTREO Insurance Brokerage

2068 Talbert Drive #100 Chico (530) 895-1555

Jewelry

Magalia Rocks & Crystals

Magalia (530) 680-6398

Tierz of Joy Dexterity

(530) 353-5923

Woodworth’s

Jewelry

6265 Skyway Paradise (530) 877-7111

Lactation Consulting

The BEST Place for Moms LLC

5923 Clark Rd Suite F Paradise (530) 287-8222

Landscaping

Baker’s Landscape Maintenance

PO Box 1369

Magalia (530) 624-0253

Brush Masters

1450 Idlewild Ln Paradise (530) 720-9827, (530)

721-2559

Fair Street

Landscaping

2234 Park Avenue Chico (530) 343-7994

JR Landscapihng & Lawn Services

Oroville (530) 990-1016

Mountain View

Landscape Design

P.O. Box 2564

Oroville (925) 209-7702

Legal Services

Anderson’s Legal Prep

Magalia

1-775-374-0777

Liquor

MAXX FOR LESS Arco

7575 Skyway Paradise (916) 917-6717

Stop & Shop

Sinclair

8229 Skyway Paradise (530) 877-1868

Lodging

Best Western Paradise Hotel

5475 Clark Rd

Paradise

(530) 762-6051

Blixa Properties LLC

840 W 11th Ave Chico (530) 586-0003

Chapelle de L’Artiste

Glamping Tents 3300 Inspiration Ln Paradise (530) 228-0941

Gold Country Casino & Hotel

4020 Olive Highway Oroville (530) 538-4560

Paradise Pines RV Park and Campground

14360 Skyway Magalia (530) 413-8078

Ponderosa Gardens Motel, Inc 7010 Skyway Paradise (530) 872-9094

Lumber Foothill Mill & Lumber Company

1698 Wagstaff Paradise (530) 877-3395

NorCal Lumber Company

4601 Bernice Ave Marysville (916) 936-7617

Payless Building Supply 2600 Notre Dame Blvd Chico (530) 895-3228

Management Consulting

Gary Bess Associates, Inc. 2205 Meadow Creek Road Lincoln (530) 877-3426

Partner Zink Consulting Magalia (626) 840-4438

Sustainability Management Consulting 21945 Parkway Drive Red Bluff (530) 809-9233

Manufactured Homes Clayton Homes of Oroville 2243 Feather River Blvd Oroville (530) 871-9600

DL#1127080, SL#1072124, Ins#0B71264

JMS Sales, Inc. 5867 Queen Drive Paradise (714) 800-3439

Paradise Homes Inc. 635 Boquest Blvd. Paradise (530) 717-8774

CSL#: 606775

Paradise Mobile Estates, LLC 1354 Elliott Road Paradise (530) 410-4563

Reliable Home Solutions 1025 Drever Street Ste B West Sacramento (877) 442-4403

CSL# 717846

Ridge Affordable Homes

5923 Clark Road Ste A Paradise (530) 327-8494

CSL#: 1041473

Marketing

ABC Advertising, Inc.

482-4834

Flamingo Mar-

Esplanade Avenue Chico

210-2391

Butte County

Lane,

918-4585

932-9891

519-5683

451-6700

Pearson Road

243-5493

872-2000

891-4357

872-6650

Real Estate

American Homes and Land

5580 Almond Street Paradise (530) 413-0041

Amy CampbellRe/Max of ChicoDRE #02061098

1834 Mangrove Ave Chico (530) 828-9559

Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Welcome Home

6141 Center Street Paradise (530) 961-3400

Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Welcome Home - Melanie Useldinger

6141 Center Street Paradise (530) 520-2379

Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Welcome Home -Magalia Branch 14154 Skyway #8 Magalia (530) 873-7640

Brady Ware Re/Max Home & Investments

1001 Bille Rd Paradise (530) 518-9950

Century 21 Select Inc Sue Mawer

5428 Skyway Paradise (530) 520-4094

Century 21 Select Real Estate Inc.

5428 Skyway Paradise (530) 571-7725

Century 21 Select Real Estate, Susan G. Thomas 5428 Skyway Paradise (530) 518-8041

City of Trees Realty 120 Amber Grove Drive Suite 124 Chico (530) 399-0962

Coldwell Banker C&C Properties, Inc.

7054 Skyway Ste #1 Paradise (530) 877-6244

Doug Speicher, Realtor

418 Broadway Chico (530) 680-7659

JMS Sales, Inc.

5867 Queen Drive Paradise (714) 800-3439

Johnson Real Estate

P.O. Box 370 Paradise (530) 877-7428

Olde Tyme Realty

P.O. Box 104 Paradise (530) 521-2331

Paradise Association of Realtors 6161 Clark Road # 2 Paradise (530) 762-0053

Power West Properties, Inc 1824 Esplanade Chico (530) 570-4475

RE/MAX Home and Investment 1001 Bille Road Paradise (530) 872-5880

Real Estate Professionals 205 Pearson Road Paradise (530) 872-1600

Sheraton Real Estate Management 1166 E. Lassen Avenue Chico (530) 342-2214

CSL#: 733676

Stephanie Sinnott Re/Max Home & Investing

1001 Bille Rd Paradise (530) 321-9179

eXp Realty of Northern California 418 Broadway St Chico (530) 588-5272

Upside Real Estate 555 Main St Suite 220 Chico (530) 767-3714

Willow & Birch Realty 121 W 4th Ave Chico (530) 966-5902

Recreation and Sports Explore Butte County 326 Huss Lane, Building E Chico (530) 918-4585

Magalia Community Park

13917 South Park Drive Magalia (530) 413-9158

Paradise Horsemen’s Association

6705 Moore Road Paradise (530) 519-0455

Paradise Little League

P.O. Box 282 Paradise (530) 394-0343

Paradise

Recreation and Park District 6626 Skyway Paradise (530) 872-6393

Paradise Rod & Gun Club, Inc. P.O. Box 1081 Paradise (530) 877-1345

South Pines Disc Golf 13917 South Park Drive Magalia (530) 413-9158

Recycling Services

Northern Recycling & Waste Services, LLC 920 American Way Paradise (530) 876-3340 x2

Restaurants

Authentic Thai Cuisine of Paradise 6689 Skyway Paradise (530) 877-4296

Debbie’s Restaurant 7967-A Skyway Paradise (530) 872-5078

Dulce Cocina Mexican Cafe 6505 Skyway Suite A Paradise (619) 867-5183

Green Paradise Café on Wheels See Facebook for food truck locations. Paradise (530) 520-4011

Izzy’s Burger Spa 460 Pearson Rd Paradise (530) 872-1266

Izzy’s Too 13915 S Park Dr. Magalia (530) 872-1266

Lo-Fi Cafe 5913 Clark Rd Ste E Paradise (760) 563-4649

Maria’s Kitchen 1132 Elliott Road Paradise (530) 876-1086

Meeho’s 6808 Skyway Paradise (530) 762-2591

Mountain Mike’s Pizza 6626 Clark Road, Suite K Paradise (530) 872-1991

Nic’s 6256 Skyway Paradise (530) 413-9422

Paradise Burger 7099 Skyway Paradise

Westside Pizza

Clark Road

Revamp

Tax Service Liberty Tax Service 6848 Skyway Ste V Paradise (530) 872-1876

Matthews, Hutton & Warren, CPAs 1530 Humboldt Road, Ste 2 Chico (530) 877-6793

Tire Dealers Big O Tires 5995 Skyway Paradise (530) 872-1385

Les Schwab Tire Center 6308 Skyway Paradise (530) 877-2424

Mid Valley Title & Escrow Co. 6848 Skyway Suite D Paradise (530) 877-4471 Travel Agencies Paradise Travel 6779 Skyway Paradise (530) 872-0285 Travel Connection 6265 Skyway Paradise (530) 877-7111 Tree Service All Things Trees Paradise (530) 872-7272 CSL#: 1073469, Arborist #WE11572A Brolliar Stump Grinding LLC 8606 Skyway Paradise (530) 864-6961 CSL#: 1072123 Crossfire Tree and Vegetation Services Inc. Paradise (530) 877-9002 LTO A11682 C61/D49 CSL#:1033760 Greentek, Inc (P31 Enterprises Inc) 2015 Challenger Ave Ste A Oroville (530) 353-6276 Mike Goggia Tree Service Magalia (530) 966-4334 Utilities Comcast 1242 National Drive Sacramento 1-800- COMCAST Pacific Gas & Electric Company 350 Salem Street Chico (530) 896-4289 Paradise Irrigation District 6332 Clark Road Paradise (530) 877-4971 Veterinarians Animal Hospital on the Ridge 1509 Wagstaff Road Paradise (530) 877-3000 Water Treatment Spray Chem Chemical Co., Inc. 705 Keenan Court Durham (530) 895-3658 CSL#: 924388 Wildlife Sanctuary Barry Kirshner Wildlife Foundation 4995 Durham-Pentz Road Oroville (530) 533-1000 Window Coverings Allen Allen Shades Chico (530) 514-8064 DCA: #993495, DGS Small Bus: #2008145 Budget Blinds 2525 Dominic Drive Ste C Chico (530) 343-3400 Cal-Vada Flooring 8935 Skyway Paradise (530) 877-6227 CSL#: 333358 Gene’s A-1 Glass 3880 Benatar Way Ste 1, Chico (530) 877-7750 CSL#:1062076 Phantom Screens/ TCC 164 East 2nd Ave Chico (530) 228-1838 S & S Floor Covering 204 Pearson Road Paradise (530) 228-9012 CSL#: 968664 Youth Organizations Boys & Girls Club of the North Valley 601 Wall Street Chico (530) 899-0335 Spring 2023 • Ridge Business Journal B-23 BECOME A CHAMBER MEMBER Click “Join Today” on ParadiseChamber.com or find out more by visiting ParadiseChamber.com/ why-be-a-member or call (530) 877-9356

145 Pearson Road Paradise (530)