Upgraded Living - December 2024

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All Less Than 1,000 Steps Away: • Nama Sake Sushi • Roselle Bar & Lounge • Tio’s Pizza • Daycamp Coffee • Bapa’s Market • The Pilates Barre • Indigo Park & Pickleball Courts • Health, beauty and wellness shops • New Climbing Gym currently under construction

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FROM THE PUBLISHER There's no place like home for the holidays. You'll see this phrase written several times throughout this issue, sometimes in jest and other times quite heartfelt, but there's a certain truth to it. After putting this issue together, I'd modify the phrase ever so slightly to say, "There's nothing like having a home for the holidays."

After having the pleasure and eye-opening experience of interviewing Chico Housing Action Team (CHAT) for this issue and True North Housing Alliance in the issue prior, the blessing of having a home for the holidays has never been more understood or appreciated. What these two organizations are doing locally to achieve functional zero homelessness in Chico is absolutely incredible, and we couldn't be more fortunate to have so many wonderful individuals working tirelessly and selflessly at each to enhance the lives of those who start as complete strangers. I hope you'll take the time to read the article on CHAT and the two articles that follow to better understand the impact their work is having in our community and on the lives of those who have found themselves houseless, in many cases due to a simple streak of bad luck.

Though the above may strike a somber tone, the holidays are a time to spread joy and cheer, and doing so for those who are less fortunate proves the phrase, "Tis better to give than receive." We hope you'll join us this month in doing what you can to provide those who are less fortunate a better holiday season, whether that be through volunteering at one of the local shelters, serving food at the Jesus Center, donating an unwrapped gift to any one of the many toy drives currently underway in Butte County, or helping stock pantries with canned goods that are so useful during this time of year. Truly, as CHAT and True North Housing Alliance prove, we all have the ability to make a lasting and significant impact on the lives of those around us.

Take the time to spread joy, laughter, and happiness this holiday season, and don't forget to support your local small businesses that continue to give our county its unique character. Merry Christmas, and I hope you all have a very happy holiday season!

UPGRADED LIVING AVEED KHAKI Owner/Publisher JASON CORONA Sales Director MICHAELA GULBRANSEN Writer and Account Executive SHELLY BRANDON Writer TIM MILHORN Writer MADDIE RODRIGUEZ Writer NORTH RIM PHOTOGRAPHY Cover Story Photographer ERIK BROWN Cover Design

CONTRIBUTORS DOLORES MITCHELL Art DOUG LOVE Real Estate STEPHANIE MULLIN Interior Design LUCIA MERCADO Cool Kid

For editorial or general magazine inquiries, please contact: Aveed Khaki, 530.519.5683 aveed@upgradedliving.com

Aveed Khaki Owner/Publisher

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For sales inquiries, please contact: Jason Corona, 530.591.2634 jason@upgradedliving.com

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Wine Dinner at Six Two Eight Steakhouse Join us on December 30th for an Around the World Wine Dinner featuring wine pairings by Jerrod Gregory, steakhouse manager and sommelier. He is pairing wines from various regions around the world to compliment dishes created by Room Chef Gonzalo Quezada.

Call 530-528-3500 to make your reservation. Limited space available.

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CONTENTS | DECEMBER 2024 COMMUNITY 12 Discover Chico’s Lunar Market—an incredible array of artisans, vendors, musicians, and community.

22 Spreading cheer one voice at a time— join us and the Joyful Hosannas in a heart-warming holiday experience.

14 Chico Housing Action Team Executive Director Lizzy Young and Program Director Caitlyn Patterson spearhead a new year for the organization while reflecting on a successful first year at Everhart Village.

24 You may be wondering who these carolers are mentioned above. Get to know the singing duo, the Joyful Hosannas.

18 After an unfortunate set of ill-timed events, Donna Draper found herself out of work and unhoused. Thanks to the efforts of Butte County Behavioral Health and the team at CHAT, she’s back at home for the holidays.

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20 Having spent more of his life in the prison system than out, Joaquin Jordan has not only turned his life around but dedicated it to ensuring the youth and criminal elements of Butte County have the means to escape the revolving door of a life of crime.

30 Doug Love explains why there's no place like home for the holidays.

39 The only tool to lasting success missing at Skyway Tools was the one provided by Urban Design.

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CHEER

52 We check back in with two of our favorite musical acts, Smokey The Groove and Blu Egyptian, who are both on a meteoric trajectory. Catch them when they stop in Chico this month during their 2024 fall tours at Sierra Nevada's Big Room and Lost on Main, respectively.

28 Interior designer Stephanie Mullin shares tips on adding warmth and light to your holiday decor.

44 Shop Local! Find great gifts for everyone in the family, even a little something for yourself, in this year's gift guide.

54 There are few things as synonymous with the holidays as eggnog; Tim explains this holiday staple.

58 Birria and pizza—the two belong together! There’s a golden disc of deliciousness that combines them at Tacos El Mariachi.

COVER STORY 35 Huge in heart and Christmas spirit, Sis Gilmore’s elegant displays of holiday cheer exemplify joy in business and at home. Explore the luxurious wonderland at NPH in Meriam Park and the enormous, elaborate display on Van Ness Way in Durham.

ON THE COVER: PHOTO BY THE GILMORES NORTH RIM PHOTOGRAPHY

60 Cool Kid Malia Cox enchants with her intricate henna designs. See how The Young Entrepreneurs Initiative, a collaboration spearheaded by the Downtown Chico Business Association, 3CORE, and Team Chico are making dreams come true for our city's entrepreneurial youth.

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62 When all they want for Christmas is a furry friend, look no further than Chico Animal Shelter.

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WRITTEN BY MATTHEW SYLVIA | PHOTOS COURTESY JULIANNA ROSE

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ON CHICO'S LUNAR MARKET

WRITTEN BY MATTHEW SYLVIA | PHOTOS COURTESY JULIANNA ROSE

Chico’s Lunar Market is an exciting monthly gathering of artists, crafters, and creatives celebrating each other and our city’s unique personality. In two years, it has grown from a small alternative event into Chico’s most beginner-friendly market, welcoming all while retaining its feminine cosmic roots.

Typically corresponding with a natural lunar event, such as a whole or new moon, there is a particular connection with the cosmos while walking towards the local shopkeepers as the setting sun paints the clouds orange over Downtown Chico.

As you enter through the doors, you are greeted by a comfortable and warm space hosting a few dozen friendly faces—bakers, booksellers, knitters, vintage curators, jewelry artisans, painters, glassblowers, and more. Every step forward is an exciting opportunity for a new and intriguing connection. The variety of art and artists inspires a sense of pride and reverence at the forms of expression in our community.

The Lunar Market hails the Movement Arts Center of Chico, located on E. 1st Street, as its home. Always on a Saturday evening, it runs from 6-9 pm, though it moves earlier into the afternoon during the colder months. Movement Arts Chico hosts many

community programs, supporting “a diverse expression of the Arts and Culture in Chico through classes, exhibitions and events.”

As posted on their website, these include dance classes (for children and adults), yoga, the Lunar Market, and a clothing swap.

Stepping outside, the scope widens, with nearly twice as many vendors in the open parking lot. Like walking home through the middle of the road late at night, there is something that feels special and natural about using a parking lot for something other than parking. In the far corner of the lot is Taqueria Los Betos, a taco truck ready to serve a full menu of delicious food to anyone who may have been considering running home to eat or who may be at the market sharing their work for the evening.

The truck is not, however, your only option, as there are more than a few vendors serving food and beverages. With bakeries inside and mobile cafes outside, there is something to satisfy any craving.

Having recently expanded to two stages, the Lunar Market hosts up to six local musicians throughout the evening. Like an intimate, unticketed concert, popular covers of all genres turn the passersby

into a crescent-shaped audience, and the performing songwriters might even have them feeling like they just discovered their new favorite local artist.

I sat down with Lucia Mercado, event organizer/manager of Lunar Market, in the atrium of Stoble Coffee to ask her some questions about the market’s history and future. She said she began dreaming of the concept in the summer of 2021 as the ‘Full Moon Market,’ while another local artist, Miss Natalia, would initially be the one to host the Lunar Market. Regarding learning about the endeavor, Lucia said, “When Natalia first started it, I applied immediately.

The cosmos felt like they were connecting because other people in the community wanted the same thing as me.” Lucia quickly volunteered to help organize the market alongside Natalia through the autumn of 2021.

After the winter and rainy seasons passed, which prevented the use of the market’s original home on Flume Street, Lucia wanted to revive the event. With Miss Natalia deciding to focus more on music, the torch was passed to Lucia. The Lunar Market relaunched in June 2022 on Flume Street with 500 Instagram followers and space for 15 vendors.

Throughout 2022, rain and cold continued 11

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to be an issue for the outdoor event, and Lucia reached out to Movement Arts of Chico, hoping to move the vendors inside the building. Twice, they generously accommodated before the event shifted to find its more permanent home at the studio. With limited space and the elements constantly proving to be an obstacle, Lucia says she does wish for a larger, indoor, and permanent space for the market to grow into. “I would love to have a space where we can not only host markets like Lunar Market more consistently but also have concerts and workshops to be more creative in a space that belongs to the community.”

In terms of management, the market is entirely community-organized. Lucia states, “I’ve found amazing people who I'm very comfortable working with.” Each event’s poster is designed by local artist Jalisa Sousa-Silva (aka Boyneptunes).

Julianna Rose takes professional photos for event advertising and the personal use of the vendors. Mars Robinson, a local artist, runs sound equipment and books musicians to perform.

Though it has steadily grown through the past few years, the ebbs and flows of the market’s success can sometimes be intense. “I don't get too comfortable with its success or its perceived success,” says Lucia. While other markets in Chico, such as the Thursday Night Market, can utilize significant financial backing, the Lunar Market is starkly independent. Especially after the pandemic, she says, “It was so saturated, and I remember telling myself, you just gotta push through. You just have to keep doing it and stay consistent, and eventually, we will be one of the few standing out.”

On what separates the Lunar Market from similar events, Lucia says, “While vendors are rarely ever turned away, the ones chosen are chosen based on a feeling. I think that's unique to us, that we are curating that community. We're curating that feeling of safety, security, and friendliness at the events.”

The Lunar market will return in February, promising lunar magic to be woven throughout the year. With over 60 participants in their October 2024 event, enough is going on to warrant more than an hour of strolling. The Lunar Market attracts all Chicoans, including families with young children enjoying the ambiance and Chico State students looking for a new shirt or to make new friends. Pairs of people of all ages can be found, hand in hand, perusing the wares of the bazaar, possibly looking for a gift for one another. The best aspect, in my opinion, of this event that brings together our community is that it welcomes everyone and appeals to all. You see this in abundance at the Lunar Market.

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opportunities are critical. Preventative strategies, including rental assistance and eviction prevention programs, can help keep people in their homes. Collaboration between government agencies, nonprofits, and local communities is essential to create sustainable solutions and ensure that everyone has access to the dignity and security of a stable home.

Chico Housing Action Team (CHAT) is doing exactly that.

“Chico has an unhoused population of 925 people.” CHAT Executive Director Lizzy Young says, “The number can seem staggering, but it isn’t insurmountable.

We have a huge need for permanent housing to provide long-term stability, but CHAT has been working diligently to open new doors to individuals since the organization started, and I’m proud to say we’re making incredible progress.”

the journey to functional zero homelessness Homelessness and its effects have been at the forefront of our community’s consciousness for some time now and have only become more noticeable since the Camp Fire. Though it may seem like we’ve had a significant increase in homelessness and that the issue is uniquely our own, the reality is quite the opposite.

Homelessness is a complex social issue that affects individuals, families, and communities across the world and has for thousands of years. It often arises from a combination of factors, including economic hardship, lack of affordable housing, mental health challenges, and substance abuse. For many, a single event, such as job loss, a medical emergency, or domestic violence, can lead to the loss of stable housing.

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According to a 2019 Charles Schwab report, a full 59% of Americans are one paycheck away from being homeless, and it’s believed that number has increased since the pandemic.

Once homeless, individuals face significant barriers to regaining stability, including discrimination, a lack of support systems, and the difficulty of securing employment without a permanent address. The experience of homelessness can have devastating effects on physical and mental health, perpetuating a cycle of vulnerability.

Efforts to address homelessness require a multi-faceted approach. Policies that increase access to affordable housing, expand mental health and addiction services, and provide employment

CHAT originally started as Safe Space in 2013 with its founding members pulling people directly off the streets and putting them into housing wherever possible.

In 2015, they obtained their first master lease on a residential property, and have continued building their portfolio of master leases ever since. Eventually, through grants and donations, they were able to begin purchasing properties of their own, significantly increasing their ability to provide stable housing for the unhoused.

“Our residential portfolio has grown considerably since that first master lease in 2015.” Lizzy says, “As of right now, we have over 70 units, 30 of which are owned by the organization itself, and over 40 others are master leases. We have 100 doors in total, which house 200 otherwise unhoused residents. Our objective since the beginning has been to address a root issue by ensuring everyone has access to safe and affordable housing. By owning our own properties and operating master leases, we can remove common barriers that prohibit many individuals from finding stable housing, including applications, credit scores, first and last month’s rent, credit history, mental health, and prior housing stability.”

By removing those barriers and working closely with social services, CHAT can provide support and resources to

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unhoused individuals, offering shelter, food, financial assistance, furniture, and more.

“We receive referrals from local shelters and Butte County Behavioral Health.” Lizzy explains, “From there, we help establish their home, assign them a case worker, take them to our warehouse to pick out furniture, and stick with them through regular check-ins to ensure they have the support they need.

Residents can stay as long as needed, and most stay at least a year before celebrating stability and moving on to their own permanent housing. Nearly every resident has been a success story. We’ve found, unsurprisingly, that residents want to be stably housed and are willing to take the necessary steps to get there.”

Most recently, CHAT recognized a need for a different kind of community—one that could house the highest-risk individuals living on the streets with severe mental illness and provide them with the means to return to society. In February, they launched Everhart Village, a pilot program aimed at doing precisely that, and asked CHAT team member Caitlyn Patterson to run it.

“I moved to Chico in 2016 to go to school for social work and worked at True North Housing Alliance. They got me involved in working with the unsheltered population in Chico, and I later began working with a homeshare program, Home & Heart. The organization helped pair older adults who owned property in the area with a spare bedroom and needed assistance with members of the unhoused population who could help provide services in exchange for housing. It helped older adults age in place and kept many people from being unsheltered. It is an incredible program! After graduating with my master’s degree in social work, Amber Benedict—a legend at CHAT—asked if I would run the Everhart Village program. I had heard about CHAT for a long time and loved the work they were doing, so I excitedly and passionately took the position. It’s been two-anda-half years since, and it’s incredible what we’ve accomplished in that short period.”

Everhart Village officially opened on February 23rd with 20 sleeping cabins tucked away, completely out of sight, on Cohasset Road. Each cabin offers a bed, table, bench with storage, toilet, sink with vanity, and heating/AC. They all have lockable front doors and a front porch, while a community building provides the kitchen necessities. Each cabin provides occupancy for one individual, daily necessities, and resources, such as a weekly meeting with a counselor from Butte County Behavioral Health. As of November 22nd, Everhard Village is home to 17 individuals with room for three more.

“The program works with a population that most other community resources are not working with—folks who have been chronically unsheltered with severe mental health challenges and a lack of trust in our regular systems.” Caitlyn explains, “It is a low-barrier shelter to help those with substance abuse challenges. Butte County Behavioral Health comes by each day to help them stabilize their mental health and become comfortable being sheltered. Most enter in fight or flight mode, where they’ve existed for years. Eventually, they start trusting 15

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the staff and building a community here.

We connect them to long-term resources and SSI if they’re disabled, which can take up to one year. It’s all crucial to their long-term success.”

Not even 12 months into the program, Everhart Village has already celebrated its first resident successfully moving into permanent housing. Another resident was just accepted into SSI and will soon be reunited with family in another state.

“This program is the first of its type.”

Caitlyn raves, “Within six months to a year, we will have data to support everything we’re doing here. We’re thrilled to be helping people who have historically been in and out of hospitals, jails, and in-patient psychiatric units.

The program drastically decreases their dependence on those resources by giving them a place to come home to every day. With crisis services nearby, we’ve saved significant money for the city and county. It costs the community approximately $52,000 per year in resources for each unhoused individual.

This program reduced that cost to just $12,000. Residents must be active Butte County Behavioral Health clients and participate in a treatment plan. They’re expected to abide by the program rules and regulations while continuing to work on treatment goals. Our case managers at Everhart Village help tackle barriers to getting housing and provide them with the dignity they need to succeed in finding stability again. It really is a beautiful thing to be a part of.”

With Everhart Village’s first anniversary just a few short months away, we couldn’t be more thrilled at what they have accomplished in just nine months.

They are currently running an expansion campaign with the goal of raising $600k by the end of the year to help accelerate their momentum toward functional zero homelessness in Chico, and every donation counts! Explore more about CHAT, its programs, and what you can do at www.chicohousingactionteam.net.

You’ll also discover two of their recent success stories on the following two spreads.

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housing quickly enough, she moved into the only area she could find at a moment’s notice and pitched a tent at the homeless enclave on the corner of East and Cohasset Road.

“If I had continued to have a job, I would have been able to find housing.” Donna said, “I had worked for the same company for many years, but without a job and a home, it’s much more difficult to find housing than one might imagine. I’ve always been clean and sober, so the story isn’t the type that you expect to hear when it comes to homelessness. I just had a lot of bad luck at the worst time.”

Struggling with significant health issues and the lack of work and shelter, Donna began planning for the end. She was actively attempting to take her own life when an officer from the Chico Police Department intervened, saving her life and taking her to Butte County Behavioral Health’s Crisis Unit. There, she met with Jeremy, one of the unit’s supervisors. He provided counseling and set her up with contacts at Chico Housing Action Team (CHAT) and other resources to help her recover.

Donna Draper Life doesn’t always go as planned, and sometimes, as the old saying goes, when it rains, it pours. This was the case for Donna Draper, a Butte County resident for 30+ years. Though she started life as most children usually do, the innocence of her childhood was cut short at 13 years old when a stranger was murdered next to her in Oroville. The experience, understandably, had a cascading effect on her psychologically, causing PTSD and depression throughout her teenage years and the adult years to follow. The domestic abuse she experienced in adulthood within her relationship from 1995-2000 only worsened her mental anguish. Still, she did her best to stay positive and embrace the silver linings wherever she could find them.

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Donna’s path seemed to get less rocky after 2010. She began recovering, working as a live-in caregiver for her godfather and a separate caregiving company. Thanks to the stability from work and the ever-present love of her three dogs, everything was finally moving in the right direction.

Unfortunately, in 2022, the facility her godfather resided in decided to no longer allow live-in caregivers, serving Donna with a 14-day notice to vacate. She discussed the situation with her boss at the other caregiving company and soon found herself fired for not having a stable living arrangement. Without work and a home, Donna began frantically searching for housing. Without the means to secure

“I signed signed up for temporary housing at Everhart Village.” Donna said, “I officially moved into my own unit in February this year, and it gave me the stability I needed to get back on my feet and finally take a breath. I ended up meeting several people I really cared for, and the team at CHAT helped me find permanent housing, too. I recently moved into a 4-bedroom CHAT home that I share with three other wonderful roommates.

I’ve found community there. It even has a large backyard for my dogs to enjoy.

CHAT has been so helpful and supportive, ensuring I have furniture and assistance with my rent while waiting for my SSI benefits to kick in. Last winter, I woke up every morning with an inch of ice on my tent, and I had gone through five tents that year due to rats eating through them in the field on Cohasset. I can’t describe how much the Chico PD officer, Jeremy, and the team at CHAT mean to me. I wouldn’t be here without them, and CHAT has given me everything I need to get back on my feet at my new home.”

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my bills, so they kept stacking up. I was just paying to store my clothes since I was never home. It got to the point where I had to decide whether to leave school to work enough hours to keep paying my bills or become unhoused. I explained my situation to Bob and Bill, who I met at the Torres Shelter, and they helped me find a short-term rental in one of the CHAT houses on Lassen Avenue in Chico. I lived there for five months, and it provided the bridge I needed to stay in school, get my bills paid, and put my finances in order. It was such a game changer for me.”

Joaquin used the stop-gap housing to gain a foothold, take a breath, and move forward. After five months, he moved out of the CHAT house, opening the door for someone else who could use the support.

In 2023, he graduated from Chico State with a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice and a master’s degree in political science.

joaquin jordan Originally from South Central Los Angeles, Joaquin Jordan was dealt what most would consider an impossible hand of cards from the beginning. With addiction heavily present on both sides of his family and an environment where trouble was easy to find, it almost comes as no surprise that he found himself in the situations he did.

“I got into a lot of trouble as a kid.”

Joaquin said, “I was incarcerated for 24 years of my life—18 of those being a 3-strike inmate. I ran away from home, wanting to be a drug dealer, as my uncle was heavily into gangs and crime, and he seemed to have made a life and name for himself. I began selling drugs and got addicted to cocaine myself. I was robbed by a gang member at one point and beaten severely while trying to deal drugs, which pushed me to stop dealing, but the addiction remained. I would use cocaine and then rob someone to get money for more when I ran out. I would get arrested, go to jail, and repeat the 20

cycle when I got out. Though I never physically injured anyone, I racked up enough strikes due to armed robbery, so I was sent to prison for life.”

As Joaquin hadn’t caused bodily harm, and due to his determination to reform himself after his final conviction, his sentence was eventually commuted in 2018. He made plans to return to society as a model citizen, right the wrongs of his past, and never find himself back in the life he once led. He was released from prison on a Friday and began attending Chico State the following Monday to pursue a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice.

“Everything was going great until the middle of my second semester when I was going through a divorce.” Joaquin said, “That was on me, unfortunately.

I moved out of our house and into the University Inn. I was going to school fulltime and trying to work full-time at the Torres Shelter, but I couldn’t keep up with

Having trained as a drug counselor in prison, he combined his training and education to begin positively affecting at-risk individuals throughout Butte County. He has worked as a shelter monitor, case manager, program manager, and eventually associate director at the Torres Shelter. He currently works for a consulting firm specializing in social impact statewide while devoting his time to youth impact programs for substance abuse and education. He also contracts and provides counseling for youth in Butte County Probation and is an associate director for Butte County Upstream. To top it off, he gives back through his efforts with Habitat for Humanity, where he works as a senior specialist of programs overseeing all grants with a person-centered and trauma-informed element. Finally, to give back for the help provided by CHAT, he also now serves as one of its board members.

“Everything comes out of me finishing school.” Joaquin said, “If I hadn’t, I wouldn’t have an imprint on Chico.

Being stably housed for that short period made all the difference in my life. What makes CHAT amazing is how much community participation we have through volunteerism. It makes all this possible, and I couldn’t be more thankful for it.”

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Join Us for a Christmas Caroling Event It’s that time of year again—when sweaters get tackier, cocoa flows freely, and caroling brings friends and neighbors together to sing (or shout!) holiday classics. Upgraded Living is calling on YOU to rally everyone you know—family, friends, coworkers, random dog walkers, even your friendly neighborhood mail carrier—and meet us for a jolly Christmas caroling event at Petersen Park, located at Denali Dr & Rollins Lake Dr in Chico, on December 15th from 3-5 p.m.

Meet us at Petersen Park at 3 p.m., where Santa will be ready for holiday photos, and you can check out an antique fire truck courtesy of The Chico Firefighters 22

Don’t worry about staying warm—we’ll have hot cocoa, cookies, and plenty of holiday cheer to keep you cozy! At 4 p.m., The Joyful Hosannas Musical Duo, a local nonprofit dedicated to bringing music and joy to the community, will lead us on a caroling walk through the neighborhood.

You can read more about them in this issue. They’ll guide us through beloved Christmas carols like “Deck the Halls” and “O Holy Night.” Not sure of all the lyrics?

No problem! Just scan the QR code at the event to access the songs' lyrics.

Caroling isn’t just about singing—it’s about making memories and celebrating the season's joy together. Whether you’re a karaoke champ, a seasoned caroler, or someone who loves to clap along, your presence will make this event memorable.

This casual gathering promises an afternoon filled with music, laughter, and the warm feeling of being part of a community. So mark your calendar, practice your best “Fa-la-la-las,” and join us at Petersen Park on December 15th for an afternoon of holiday spirit and unforgettable fun!

WRITTEN BY MICHAELA GULBRANSEN

A brief history of caroling as we know it began in the 13th century when groups of singers would go door-to-door, spreading joy, warmth, and a bit of luck to their neighbors. Originally, carols were sung to celebrate the nativity and were especially popular in England. They would bundle up and fill the winter streets with songs.

Over the centuries, caroling evolved into a favorite holiday tradition, with classics like “Silent Night” and “Deck the Halls” bringing communities together. Today, caroling is a festive way to gather, share laughter, and light up the season. We want to bring that magical spirit to our readers. So throw on that Christmas sweater or grab your festive scarf, warm up those vocal cords, and join us in spreading holiday cheer!

Association. They will be hosting their annual toy drive from 1-4 p.m. that day as part of their Adopt-a-Family Program, which helps around 200 families and growing each year. Please consider bringing an unwrapped toy to support this wonderful cause while you join in the festivities!

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The Joyful Hosannas

The group was founded in 2015 by Martha Kaye Morrison, an engineer from Silicon Valley and a world-ranking tennis star.

Martha decided to reconnect with her musical roots at 45, and a musical group seemed the perfect way to do just that.

Growing up playing violin and guitar, Martha took voice lessons and joined the Alders Gate Choir, where she and the singing barista met. Veronica, a soprano-soloist with an incredible ability to hit high notes, and Martha, a musical whiz who can keep impeccable rhythm, immediately clicked.

The duo initially performed as a trio with a talented pianist who, approaching her 90s, eventually passed the torch.

The Joyful Hosannas don’t just put on concerts—they provide music therapy, creating a sense of connection and 24

comfort, especially for those feeling lonely or isolated. Frequenting senior living communities like The Terraces, Oakmont, Sycamore-Glenn, Amber-Grove MemoryCare, and California Park Rehab with a wide-ranging repertoire of songs—from show tunes and hymns to holiday classics— the duo delivers one-hour programs that resonate across generations. On Easter, they perform at six different facilities in a single day.

The duo also hosts concerts in churches throughout Northern California, relying solely on donations to their 501(c)(3) organization. They are incredibly grateful for the support of individuals like Ernie Ebersole, activities director at Oakmont and Courtyard retirement centers in Chico, who goes above and beyond to arrange transportation so that residents can attend their concerts and have something to look forward to.

For Veronica, music is deeply personal. She believes her voice saved her life—not once, but twice. After being rescued from a water drain as an infant in Guatemala, Veronica’s powerful cries led to her adoption by a family from the Napa Valley. Tragically, just months later, the orphanage collapsed in an earthquake, taking many lives. Veronica’s connection to her voice runs deep, and it’s why she’s so passionate about using it to bring joy to others. Veronica has used her voice throughout her life to spread joy— from singing the national anthem for the Sacramento Kings at age 14 to performing at weddings, funerals, birthday grams, and more. She’s been known to create jingles and sing for special occasions, always ready to share her gift.

What’s remarkable about these two women is their genuine respect for each other. They are a perfect example of how collaboration and friendship can create something beautiful. Their commitment to enriching the lives of seniors is evident in every note they sing, and they perform five or more times each month because they believe in the transformative power of music.

WRITTEN BY MICHAELA GULBRANSEN

If you’ve ever been to the East & Cohasset Starbucks in Chico, you may recognize the vocal talents of Veronica Davis, “the singing barista,” who brightens your day with more than just her warm smile. Veronica’s voice may be the soundtrack to your morning caffeine fix, but another side to her is just as captivating—her part in the singing sensation The Joyful Hosannas.

Experience the joy they bring for yourself at our Christmas Caroling event on December 15th in Amber Grove from 3–5 pm, and help spread holiday cheer. Their happiness is contagious, whether singing for one person or filling a room with festive spirit.

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Merry Christmas & New Year!

328 Broadway

It’s Time

Downtown Chico

We Have Them

Peptides

Schedule a consult with Dr. Kermen or a H2H Nurse today

Hydration Happens

(530) 520-7960 25

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Sweet Chico

Celebrating her third anniversary as the owner of Sweet Chico, Robin Klitzke couldn’t be more excited about the holiday season.

Known for offering a massive selection of authentic gelato, candy, and chocolates, Sweet Chico has significantly increased their inventory in each category and added a unique selection of toys and gifts visitors will love. They have even started making freeze-dried candy in-house, including classics like Hi-Chew, Jolly Ranchers, Nerds, and many more. What makes the shopping experience truly special is their incredible team, intent on providing the best customer service possible. “It’s the best team we’ve ever had!” Robin raves, “They’re the sweetest, funniest, and kindest group of people; they care about our customers and want to make each visit magical.” With everything you could possibly need to delight that special someone with a sweet tooth this holiday season, Sweet Chico is the perfect place to begin your Christmas shopping.

SweetChicoCo @SweetChicoCo www.sweetchico.com

121 W 3rd St, Downtown Chico | (530) 332-9866 Tues, Wed 11am-5:30pm | Thurs-Sat 11am-9pm Sun 11am-8pm

Bird In Hand

Birdinhandchico @Birdinhandchico www.birdinhand.com

320 Broadway St, Chico (530) 893-0545 Mon-Sat 10-5pm, Sun 11-4pm

Synonymous with fun, Bird In Hand has been delighting residents and visitors since 1981. Originally started as a screenprinting company in 1972, the family business quickly took off and continued evolving into what it is today—Chico’s defacto destination for toys, yo-yos, games, Tommy Bahama Hawaiian shirts, Jellycat plushies, and just about anything that’ll bring a smile to your face. “We wanted to carry something for everyone.” Bird in Hand owner Bob Malowney said, “We’ve continued that tradition by ensuring we have plenty of items for everyone. No matter how much you have to spend, you can find something here.” Today, Bob’s daughter and her husband run the store. “She’s the most experienced retail buyer in California.” Bob said, “She knows exactly what people are looking for and what will inspire them.” A complete online store allows customers to shop in-person or online with curbside pick-up or delivery. Drop by or visit them online to see all the fun things they offer for yourself.

Chico Paper Co Opened in 1982 as a business focused on selling posters, prints, and paper products, Chico Paper Co. has been proudly family-owned and operated for nearly 42 years, slowly morphing into the fine art gallery and frame shop that it is today. Now owned and operated by Eric Metcalf, who started working there as a picture framer in 2000, the shop is considered an artist home for many and a major supporter of the local artist scene and community. The once ubiquitous paper offerings have been added to by an everrevolving smorgasbord of paintings, sculptures, photography prints, and so much more.

Their framing services now sit front and center as one of their primary offerings, making Chico Paper Co. the perfect place to visit if you're looking to protect memories—or find something new to create memories around­—this holiday season. chicopapercompany @chicopapercompany www.chicopapercompany.com

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345 Broadway St, Downtown Chico (530) 891-0900 Tuesday-Saturday 10am-5pm

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Winter Interiors

As seen in favorite holiday films, a traditional holiday color scheme of classic reds and greens brings warmth and nostalgia. Deep reds add vibrancy, while rich greens evoke natural elements like evergreen trees; touches of gold enhance the elegance.

For a festive tablescape, start with a green and red plaid tablecloth, pair it with gold dinnerware, and add white candles for warmth. To complement the theme, add green napkins and create a centerpiece of winter pines, vibrant holly berries, and rustic pine cones.

Consider a blue, ivory, and brown palette for a tranquil winter scene. Soft shades of blue 28

evoke the crispness of winter skies, while ivory adds warmth and serves as a gentle base. Rich browns from natural materials bring earthiness. Style your Christmas tree with rustic brown ornaments, velvet blue ribbons, and shimmering blue and white accents to capture the serene beauty of a winter forest.

A neutral Christmas color scheme brings sophistication and timeless appeal. Create an earthy base by using shades of white and natural browns. Add an accent color such as black, green, or gray to add depth. Decorate your fireplace mantel with a base of lush green garland while weaving in brown satin ribbons, wood beads, and bells for charm.

Arrange creamy candles of varying heights along the mantel and finish with holidaythemed iron or metal figurines.

WRITTEN BY STEPHANIE MULLIN

It’s the season of magic! This time of year brings a sense of warmth, sparkling light, and the nostalgic scents of pine and cinnamon that infuse the air. It’s a time to gather with loved ones, celebrate traditions, and create new memories. So, let’s start by transforming our homes into the perfect space to celebrate the season. Whether you aim to create classic elegance, a sense of serenity, or yuletide minimalism, the first step is choosing a cohesive theme.

Selecting the perfect color scheme for your space is one of the best ways to get started.

Choose a well-defined color scheme to craft a stunning environment for the holiday season. Be sure to incorporate a variety of textures and materials to add depth and interest to your decor. Consider using a mixture of textiles such as faux fur, velvet, bark, holly, and plenty of greenery. Most importantly, have fun and happy holidays!

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My wife and I have bought and sold several properties and we have worked with many realtors. Ms. Effie Khaki is by far the best realtor we have ever worked with. She is intelligent, kind and a great communicator. I hope to work with her again. -Dr. Erik Simchuk, Chico

You will be in awe as you enter through the charming gated courtyard of this Canyon Oaks home and into its elegant entry. Designed to entertain, the well-appointed great room harmoniously flows into the fully-equipped kitchen and to the formal dining room. The well-appointed kitchen is a chef's dream and is fully-equipped with top of the line appliances, granite counter tops, a 6-burner gas cooktop, and a walk-in pantry. The residence embraces an oversized great room, a large formal dining room, a breakfast nook, 4 bedrooms, 3.5 bathrooms, an inhouse office and a huge media room all in over 3,900 square feet of living space. The primary suite grants a private entrance to the backyard and boasts a walk-in closet, spa-like bathroom, granite counter tops, his and her vanities, jetted tub, and walk-in shower. You'll also find 3 HVAC units, a 3 car garage, and OWNED SOLAR. Bed: 4.0 Bath: 4.0 SqFt: 3,956 Price: $1,399,000

This 3 bedrooms, 2 full baths home is located in highly sought-after Meadow Brook Ranch community-University town of Chico! The interior features an open floor plan that seamlessly integrates the family room, dining area, and kitchen, creating a welcoming and airy atmosphere. The family room boasts sleek, high-quality quartz countertops and flooring, exuding sophistication and durability. The kitchen includes white beech wood shaker cabinets, stainless steel appliances, luxury vinyl planked floors, quartz counter tops, large island, plenty of counter space and a pantry for starters. The owners suite has dual vanities, under mounted sinks, upgraded counters and upgraded shower surround. This property also has solar. Bed: 3.0 Bath: 2.0 SqFt: 1,455 Price: $499,999

Gorgeous Mediterranean style home is located in the exclusive Sorrento Neighborhood. Desirable floor plan with one downstairs bedroom. Upstairs master suite bed and bath with separate shower and tub, and custom walk-in closet. Gourmet kitchen, open to the living room includes granite counters, stainless steel appliances and a built-in wine fridge. High vaulted ceilings and abundant windows the downstairs, newer tankless water heater, and so muchh more! Bed: 3.0 Bath: 3.0 SqFt: 2,063 Price: $535,555

If you are looking for your private estate property, then come and see what this gorgeous 1+ acre parcel has to offer. Situated on a quiet cul-de-sac location, it will take only one look to know this is where you want your dream home to be.

Acres: 1.02 Price: $37,900

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There's no place like home Here is a look at a holiday season of years ago. Real estate advertising appeared primarily in the daily newspaper. We Realtors paid dearly to place those little printed ads in the real estate section. Internet? No such thing. Customers pored over the paper, and if they had an interest in an ad, they picked up their telephone (a device connected permanently to the wall by a “phone cord”) and called the phone number listed in the advertisement. A real estate agent in a real estate office was designated to answer those phone calls, known as “floor calls.”

I was “on floor” one stormy Saturday morning. Christmas music wafted through the office, emanating from the radio at the front desk.

Ken DuVall (KDV) slipped through the front door in a blast of wind and rain. He fired up one of his hand-rolled cigarettes, blew a smoke stream, and said, “Check out my ad.” He unfurled the newspaper's classified section and pointed to a display ad with a photo of his face and a top line in bold that read, “There’s No Place Like (a New) Home for the Holidays.”

I rolled my eyes. “There’s No Place Like Home for the Holidays” by The Carpenters was the new Christmas radio hit, which I took to be a cheesy version of the original.

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A floor call came in. A guy mentioned KDV’s ad. “Very clever ad,” he said. He was an incoming professor to Butte College, transferring from the Midwest. “My wife and I do indeed need a new home for the holidays,” he said.

I met that professor and his wife within minutes at a tall, narrow, vintage home on 14th Street. Christmas lights of red, blue, and green outlined the high-pitched roof eaves. A wreath hung over the front door glass pane. Inside, the sellers were gone, but the stage was set. Christmas music played lightly on the stereo. A fire crackled in the fireplace, and the place smelled of cinnamon and cedar. A big orange cat stretched and rubbed against our legs as we stood, taking in the feel of this home.

Using my best sales technique, I said nothing. The professor and his wife smiled and held hands as they strolled through the house.

In the background played my new favorite Christmas song, “There’s No Place Like Home for the Holidays” by The Carpenters.

Doug Love is Sales Manager at Century 21 in Chico. Email dougwlove@gmail.com.

Call or text 530-680-0817.

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"Sherry was great. Efficiency and good communication were critical to me during this process, and Sherry was on it! Escrow was closed within one month of listing the house, which exceeded my expectations. I would definitely recommend Sherry to anyone. Thank you!"

- Jaimie Malone

Call me today at (530) 514-4855

Approximately 45 minutes northeast of Chico, up highway 32 in the Sierra Cascade Mountains. When you enter this mountain home, you'll flip on the heater switch which works very efficiently while you light your freestanding wood stove that is centrally located. In the summertime there is no need for a/c, ceiling fans in every room for cross ventilation when you open your windows. The custom kitchen with alder wood cabinets, pull out drawers, large kitchen island/granite offers an entertainers dream space for buffets, and gatherings. This home would be a great place for reunions, birthdays, wedding!!! People usually just linger and don't want to go home while hanging out on this large, covered deck with ceiling fans and lights!!! You'll feel like you're on vacation as you peer out each and every window which offers views watching birds, and local wildlife.

Bed: 3.0 Bath: 2.0 SqFt: 1,260 Price: $439,500

Beautiful double lot in a prestgious gated community, just minutes from Chico! Enjoy these breath taking sunsets, and Chico lights on this level building site, complete with 2 sets of house plans!!! Feel like you're on vacation, yet you are at home and surrounded by custom homes in a small community of 24 Custom Homes. There is a 10 x 12 storage unit with each lot. Beautiful pool and BBQ for the community. Wildlife can be enjoyed and memories made in this one of a kind property and opportunity. Hurry, this treasure simply won't last.

Acres: 1.59 Price: $74,900

Pending

Pending

She's a beauty Inside and Out !!! You ll be delighted when opening the door into this well kept home!! Located in the Barber District and situated on a large fully landscaped lot, you ll find this 2 bedroom + bonus room home!! The 878 sq.ft. of living space does not include an additional 200 foot bonus room that is being used as the primary bedroom and has access from this room into the back yard!! In the last 4 years improvements to this charmer have been: Remodeled kitchen with granite counters, new cabinets, stainless steel appliances and A BRAND NEW REFRIGERATOR !! The roof, HVAC, laminate flooring, dual pane windows, paint inside and out, fencing, are all approximately 4 years old as well! Did I mention, it comes complete with a white picket fence!! You ll be proud to call this house your home!!!

Bed: 2.0 Bath: 1.0 SqFt: 878 Price: $347,000

Downstairs unit!!! Located in the back of the complex !! Perfect location by Miriam Park !!! Close to shopping, coffee bars, sushi spots and great places to walk! Downstairs unit! Fireplace!! Washer/dryer/ refrigerator are included !!! Hurry, hurry, hurry !!!! Downstairs unit - !!!

Bed: 2.0 Bath: 1.0 SqFt: 864 Price: $169,900

Let me know if I can sell yours too!

(530) 514-4855

Sherry Landis Real Estate, Inc. Serving happy customers for over 33 years.

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WRITTEN BY SHELLY BRANDON | PHOTOS BY NORTH RIM PHOTOGRAPHY

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WRITTEN BY SHELLY BRANDON | PHOTOS BY NORTH RIM PHOTOGRAPHY

Shining Eternally Bins full of ornaments, evergreens, and lights line the back counters at Nurses and Professional Healthcare, signaling the start of Sis Gilmore’s favorite time of year. The Christmas holiday is ready to burst open, and the joy of the season beams from Sis as she shares her excitement at bringing her family, employees, and community into the light of the holidays.

You’re probably already familiar with the giant Christmas tree that graces NPH’s building in Meriam Park. Still, you might not know that the tree is just the beginning of the holiday spirit that Sis puts out into the community. Nurses and Professional

Healthcare is a nursing registry that staffs approximately 130 facilities throughout the North State. Hospitals, clinics, assisted living communities, skilled nursing homes, mental health clinics, rehabilitation centers, and surgery centers rely on NPH to fill staffing shortages. The company employs over 450 healthcare professionals, including RNs, LVNs, and CNAs. Throughout Sis Gilmore’s 36 years at NPH, she has always maintained the idea of “Go big, go bigger, go home.”

In this case, this statement applies not only to her passion for work but also to her bottomless supply of holiday spirit, personally and professionally.

At the office, along with the brightly lit outdoor tree, comes a building adorned in dazzling lights, ornaments, and swaths of evergreen. Sis laughs and says, “There won’t be a square inch of this building that isn’t decorated for Christmas.” She explains how meaningful it is to know people appreciate and enjoy their efforts.

Last December, Raley's on Notre Dame recognized Sis with ‘The Neighborhood Holiday Spirit Award.’ Their thoughtful recognition made Sis realize how many people drive by and enjoy the lights.

NPH embraced the Meriam Park community last year at their 35th Anniversary holiday 35

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party and offered made-to-order coffee, donuts, and a catered lunch to anyone who wanted to visit. The office was filled with NPH employees and neighboring Meriam Park friends eager to participate in the holiday fun. This year, Sis hopes to invite the “furry friends” from Butte Humane Society into the office during the season.

This provides a perfect opportunity to share the dogs on social media, hoping to find them homes for the holidays.

The holiday traditions are heavily rooted in the NPH family as well. Each year, Sis kicks off the holiday season with beautiful floral arrangements for her internal NPH staff for the Thanksgiving holiday. It doesn’t end there; they also participate in an office Secret Santa and ornament exchange at Sis’s home. Andrea Gleason, Business Development Director, states, "Sis goes above and beyond to make her employees feel valued. She treats us as if we were a part of her family, too.” The joy Sis feels in sharing her home and neighborhood with those around her is evident. She explains how, after the ornament exchange, she and her NPH family stroll through the neighborhood together, taking in the lights and displays everyone works so hard on.

The decorations displayed at Sis Gilmore’s home make the office seem dim in comparison. She reflects, “I was thinking about this last night—why the Christmas season means so much to me. It makes me feel like the community remembers my daughter, Katie, and I love that.” Sis imagines her bright and shining neighborhood display can be seen in heaven, where Katie can see it. She smiles as she remembers her daughter, who passed away in 2021. “She used to pull up in front of the house, and I would watch as she got out of her car and walked up, so exhilarated at seeing the decorations. It meant so much to her.”

Sis thinks back to when her holiday light tradition began and touches on an old family photo that features her husband Jim and his brother Tim standing on the rooftop stringing one simple strand of lights along the edge. Since that photo, the Christmas display has tripled in size. They start putting up the different pieces the day after Halloween, and it takes two to three weeks to get everything in place and ready to ‘go live’ on Thanksgiving day. They add a new

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feature to the display every year, ordering them in the summer to have it prepared in time for the ‘Christmas extravaganza.’

The Gilmore house is one of the Durham Tour of Lights homes and has a nonstop stream of traffic throughout the neighborhood. Sis and her 16-year-old twins, Brodie and Lacie, love sitting in the window, watching and listening to the community’s reaction as they meander through the display. Christmas Eve is the season's highlight: “We start early in the day making hot chocolate, and we have boxes of cookies that are all individually wrapped to hand out to visitors. Our whole family helps pass out hot chocolate and cookies as miles and miles of cars drive by to see the lights.”

Her grandsons, Jaxson and Kaden, dress up in elf costumes and are eager to carry on the family traditions. She laughs and shares that Jaxson tells her it’s “the favoritest things he’s done in his whole life!” People come from as far away as Sacramento and Roseville to enjoy the lights that the entire Durham cul-de-sac comes together to display. The impact this labor of love has on so many people never ceases to touch Sis’s heart.

One of her favorite pieces in the display is their front arbor, where she was gifted Katie’s name outlined in lights. Along with that glimmering reminder, they also have a beautiful Katie angel gracing that archway.

What’s the reason for starting this Christmas tradition, you may ask? Sis explains, “It’s the overwhelming love, adoration, and respect I have for my family… they are my world.” It means so much to her husband Jim, son Jason and his wife Kendra, twins Brodie and Lacie, grandsons Jaxson and Kaden, and her daughter Katie, who looks down on them all from above.

“You can see our neighborhood from orbit, and that’s the whole idea because we want Katie to see it.”

Travel to Van Ness Way in Durham to see one of the area’s best holiday displays. In Chico, watch for the beautifully lit office of Nurses and Professional Healthcare at 1801 Foundation Lane in Chico’s Meriam Park.

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Tools of your trade Skyway Tools owner Doug Gillis is a veteran of the Vietnam War, having served in the Army there for 13 months.

An Oroville native and Oroville High graduate, Gillis enrolled in Sacramento State after his discharge from the U.S. Army. He graduated in 1972, sold all his belongings, and went back to Vietnam as a civilian just in time for the North Vietnamese Easter Offensive.

WRITTEN BY TIM MILHORN

“I saw that as a sign it was time to leave Vietnam,” he said. Doug moved on from Vietnam to explore other Southeast Asian countries and returned to the U.S., where he enrolled in San Francisco State. Eventually, he found his way back to Oroville, where he began working as a seasonal mechanic for Pacific Coast Produce. In 1986, a friend approached him with the idea of opening a tool store, and Skyway Tools was born. In 1987, Gillis took over as sole proprietor of the store; in 1989, he met his wife, Sherry, and the two were married. She has helped him run the business ever since.

“I consider Skyway Tools the Collier Hardware of tool businesses in Chico,”

said Gillis. “We’re a specialty store where you can find a tool you won’t find on the shelves of the big box stores.” These days, food-grade plastic and metal barrels are huge sellers. People use them to store animal feed or turn them into barbeques, respectively.

Entering Skyway Tools, you can’t miss the classic automobile hood ornaments collection on the wall behind the cash register counter. Also on the wall is a huge collection of antique tools that resemble the Bolt Tool Museum in Oroville.

Though COVID-19 adversely affected Skyway Tools like many other businesses, one thing that got them through it was the 96-solar-panel-array Urban Design had installed before the pandemic. “Sean McCreary of Urban Design came in and gave me a great quote and a quality installation,” said Doug. Gillis estimates that the solar installation initially cut his PG&E bill from $1,300 a month to $200 a month. The system paid for itself in a few years, and the $2,000 a month bill he’d receive today without the panels comes

out to about $300 a month.

Doug can’t say enough about Urban Design and its owner, Sean McCreary.

“What I’ve always admired about Sean is his work ethic,” he said. “He’s honest, and when he says something, he backs it up.”

Gillis is happy he can help Urban Design when they need specialty tools no one else carries.

Urban Design has previously been featured in Upgraded Living, and you’ve probably noticed a pattern of praise from their clientele. Their online reviews certainly back it up. If you need new plumbing installation or existing repair, solar work, electrical service and installation, or whole-home generators, Urban Design is here for you. Visit www.urbandesignsolar.com or stop by their office at 4742 Skyway Road in Paradise.

For Skyway Tools, head over to 2499 Bruce Road in Chico. You can also call them at 530-891-6577 or find them online at www.skywaytools.com.

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Season’s Greetings & Happy New Year!

Passages, Area Agency on Aging.

Providing Community Resources for Older Adults and Family Caregivers in Northern California.

Passages 25 Main St. Chico, CA 530-898-5923/800-822-0109 Passagescenter.org

¡Felices Fiestas y Próspero año!

Passages, agencia de área sobre envejecimiento Proveemos recursos para adultos mayores y cuidadores familiares del norte de California.

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Passages 25 Main St. Chico, CA 530-898-5923/800-822-0109 Passagescenter.org

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Helen Grace Homemade Pastries A long-time educator, Jennifer Hightower found herself at a crossroads with being a professor and wanted something new. As a baker in her mother's and grandmothers’ kitchens since childhood, she found the pastime of making pies at home to be something she truly enjoyed, and her friends who were lucky enough to have tried them encouraged her to turn it into a business. In April of 2021, she opened Helen Grace Homemade Pastries on Park Avenue in Chico. Named after her grandmothers, Helen and Grace, the perfectly-named business took off faster than she could have ever imagined. What started as a small operation selling pies quickly blossomed into a full menu filled with any dessert one could imagine, along with savory items too. As Jennifer says, “If you can dream it, I can probably make it.” Stop by for a sweet or savory treat and discover this hidden gem for yourself.

HelenGraceHomemadePastries @HelenGraceHomemadePastries HelenGraceHomemadePastries.com

2240 Park Ave, Chico Thur-Fri 8:30am-2pm Sat 8:00am-12:30pm

3 Seas Passionate about retail her entire life, Kim Colombo started working at her family’s store, id, on Main Street in Downtown Chico before pursuing corporate retail and opening several stores in Roseville and the Bay Area. Eventually, she decided to move back to Chico and open 3 Seas. Now celebrating its eighth year in business, 3 Seas is run by Kim and her daughter Cydney, focusing on providing unique and exciting items you won’t find anywhere else in town. Whether you’re searching for the perfect clothing, shoes, candles, accessories, jewelry, perfume, or unique items to gift this holiday season, you can be sure to find it here. If you’re looking for a gift idea, check out their cozy pajamas by PJ Salvage. With approachable price points that make it easy to shop for just about anything, and a brand-new men’s section for the guy in your life, make sure 3 Seas is part of your holiday shopping trip this year.

Shop3seas Shop3seas Shop3seas.com

334 Broadway Street, Chico | (530) 809-1673 Mon-Wed 10am-5pm, Thu-Fri 10am-7pm Sun 11am-4pm

Ikoda Collective Nikole Enns is a Chicoan through and through with an unmistakable eye for fashion and design. She turned that gift into a business when she started her own interior design studio, IKO Design Studio, in 2011. Now, as a well-known interior designer, she’s opening a brick-and-mortar store in Downtown Chico to make her style accessible to the masses.

Ikoda Collective is a vendor collaborative, home to makers and artisans, carrying small batch, handmade items with a Palm Springs vibe. Her lifestyle collective features 65 vendors in vintage furniture, jewelry, custom hats, and more. Stop by 232 Broadway Street for a truly unique shopping experience. @ikodacollective

232 Broadway Street, Downtown Chico www.ikodacollective.com

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Mountain Sports

chicomountainsport mountainsports_chico chicomountainsports.com

176 E 3rd St, Chico | (530) 345-5011 Mon-Sat 10am-5:30pm Sun 11am-4pm

Growing up in the small mountain town of Three Rivers, CA, Bruce Hart quickly discovered his love for the great outdoors, though he rarely had the right gear for his adventures. Armed with that passion, he made it his mission to ensure others could enjoy the outdoors comfortably and to their fullest potential when he purchased Downtown Chico’s Mountain Sports in 1977. Offering customers the best possible gear alongside first-class customer service, Mountain Sports has earned a reputation as one of Chico’s best retailers, while their level of product knowledge has made them a destination for advice, hardto-find answers, and safety. Mountain Sports carries Patagonia, Kuhl, Osprey, Nemo Equipment and many other hard and soft good brands synonymous with quality. They have anything and everything you could possibly need to properly enjoy the outdoors and the knowledge to make your experience unforgettable. Visit them at 176 E. 3rd Street and discover why Chico has loved this store for nearly 50 years.

For Elyse Amber Kierig, a fourth-generation Chicoan, has loved fashion and clothing for as long as she can remember. She and her husband began their journey by traveling the world, designing dresses and tops, and selling them at music festivals. In 1998, they turned that dream into reality by opening For Elyse in Chico. Amber’s experience as a design consultant for renowned fashion brands in L.A.—including pieces featured in major department stores like Bloomingdale’s— brings a high-end touch to her store. Together with her team, she curates stylish, personalized outfits for every customer. “We care about our customers and build relationships with them,” Amber says.

“We help style them and ensure they feel beautiful.” For Elyse offers something for all ages. Visit the store to find the perfect holiday outfit or a special gift. Mention this article to receive 20% off gift cards!

Forelyse Forelyse ForElyseChico.com

228 Broadway St, Chico | (530) 893-0106 Mon-Wed 10-7:00pm, Thu-Sat 10-7:30pm Sun 11-6

Shop now by scanning the QR code to the left!

The Peddler's Closet A lover of human connection and discovery, Leann Powell began her journey in retail at the age of 16. She worked her way up to management in several different businesses throughout Northern California before deciding to go into business for herself. She began The Peddler's Closet in May of 2019, doing pop-up events and running micro-stores, selling her unique finds at many locations throughout the Northstate. In 2021, she went all-in on her brick-and-mortar location in Downtown Chico and, in April this year, opened the doors to her newly expanded space at 127 Main Street. Wanting it to feel like a treasure hunt, she stocked it with a perpetual rotation of one-of-a-kind gifts, unique clothing, artisans tie-dye, distinctive finds, musical instruments, jewelry, art, pottery, journals, and so much more. Sure to be Downtown Chico's definitive location to find the perfect gift for that special someone—including yourself—drop by and see why this is a store you just can’t miss.

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127 Main Street, Downtown Chico (530) 518-8883 Wed-Sat 11-5:30 or by appointment

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Holiday Gift Guide We all know shopping for gifts during the holidays can be a difficult and timeconsuming task. Between juggling hectic schedules, unexpected weather, and the additional commitments this time of year offers, it can certainly feel daunting. While visiting some of our favorite small businesses in Butte County over the past few weeks, we took a few minutes at each one to find an item or two that we felt would make the perfect gift this holiday season. Regardless of age or preference, there's something here for everyone, and we hope our picks inspire you to visit some of these small businesses yourself and shop local this year.

New Fall Diamond Ribbon Candy Earrings Geralyn Sheridan Designs 1334 Mangrove Ave, Chico (530) 809-1034 Embrace the daring elegance of bold lab grown sapphire gems in stunning fall hues.

With intricate designs, graceful diamond shapes, and dazzling cushion cut briolette's, these earrings will add a creative brilliance with this sophisticated color palette.

ThoughtFulls Pop-Open Cards Bobbi's Boutique 6264 Skyway, Paradise | (530) 564-4227 Few things compare to an unexpected compliment, and a box of pop-open cards from ThoughtFulls delivers each and every time. Support someone you love with these encouraging pop-open cards by tucking them into a handbag, lunch box, pocket, or backpack. With 30 messages in each box, you can be sure you're bringing a smile to someone's face with each and every use.

Karen Kane Blouson Sleeve Sweater 5th Street Clothing 328 Broadway St, Chico (530) 345-5754 Versatile and comfortable, the blouson sleeve sweater is a must have in any wardrobe. Trendy details add a touch of elegance to a soft color pallete that makes cold-weather layering absolutely effortless.

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Image Skincare Daily Prevention SPF40 Mist Rejuvené 80 Declaration Dr, Chico (530) 342-8295 Sunscreen isn't just for the summer! Protect skin from harmful UVA and UVB rays with Image Skincare's Daily Prevention SPF40 Mist. Infused with moisturizing ingredients that hydrate and refresh the skin, this non-greasy formula absorbs quickly and can be reapplied over and again, making it ideal for all-day use.

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14 Karat Yellow Gold Pear Shaped Diamond Pendant Marcozzi's Jewelers 1511 Myers St, Oroville | (530) 533-3811 Celebrate the season and the joy that special someone brings into your life with this 14 karat yellow gold pear shaped diamond pendant from Marcozzi Jewelers.

Offering exquisite brightness and detail, this will undoubtedly be the centerpiece of her jewelery collection.

Anuschka Crossbody Organizer Birkenstock 333 Broadway St, Chico | (530) 345-4880 Hand painted with a genuine leather exterior and trim, the Anuschka Crossbody Organizer is a wearable piece of art she's sure to love. With three compartments that provide considerably more storage than you might imagine, it's just as functional as it is beautiful.

Mothers Birthstone Ring Amy Waltz Designs 113 W 2nd St, Chico (530) 774-0774 These custom works of art make heartfelt, oneof-a-kind gifts for Mom or Grandma, with each birthstone reflecting the essence of your loved ones.

Lollia Elegance Perfume For Elyse 228 Broadway St, Chico (530) 893-0106 As classic as the little black dress, Elegance Eau de Parfum is the epitome of modern sophistication, as elegant and timeless as a champagne toast. Subtly sweet Mirabelle plum and notes of bright crisp greens give way to captivating White Amber.

Kai Body Lotion 3 Seas 334 Broadway St, Chico (530) 809-1673 Kiss dry skin goodbye with luxurious moisture from the experts at Kai! Infused with conditioning shea butter and protective Vitamin E, this lightly fragranced body moisturizer will empower skin with youth-affirming hydration.

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Obagi Professional-C Peptide Complex Derm Bar 85 Declaration Dr #100, Chico (530) 342-2672 When it comes to anti-aging, peptides are all the rage, and this antioxidant-powered, facial serum-cream delivers!

Reduce the depth of lines and wrinkles without leaving a white cast. It blends seamlessly with all skin tones and will leave skin with a refreshed and radiant glow.

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S'mores Ornaments Tomfoolery 126 W 3rd St, Chico (530) 891-4100 Brighten up the Christmas tree or your mantle with these adorable s'mores ornaments! Start an ornament gifting tradition or add to your collection.

Traeger Ranger Hudson's Appliances 587 Country Dr, Chico | 454 Pearson Rd, Paradise (530) 564-4227 Experiencing separation anxiety when leaving your Traeger at home? Bid those bitter farewells goodbye with Traeger's new portable Ranger series. Perfect for camping trips, RVing, or just reducing your grilling footprint at home, the ranger delivers all that is Traeger in a compact format you'll love.

Holiday Yetis Bird Street Vendors 1934 Bird St, Oroville (530) 990-1843 What do you call a yeti with a 6-pack? Yeti to party!

Drum up some holiday cheer with these yuletide yetis at Bird Street Vendors.

They're the perfect addition to any mantle, Christmas tree, or entryway.

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Cooking Book Boxes Eastern Sequoia 6779 Skyway # B, Paradise (530) 513-2520 Sweeten a charcuterie lover's day with this cheese and honey tool set gift box. Inside, you'll find a list of delightful pairings of various cheeses with honey along with the tools needed to enjoy the experience. With various boxes to choose from, there's something for every foodie at Eastern Sequoia.

SMEG Kettle Little Red Hen Home 204 Main St, Chico (530) 487-7144 Bold, stylish, and efficient, the SMEG kettle is an excellent addition to any kitchen. With its double-wall structure and stainless-steel lining, it retains heat while remaining cool to the touch!

Lifetime Oil Candle Finds Design & Decor 1341 Mangrove Ave, Chico (530) 892-1905 Give the gift that lasts a lifetime! All contents of this beautiful oil candle have been preserved to last a lifetime, including the wick that never needs to be replaced. Available in a variety of sizes and styles, this unique gift is great for all seasons and settings!

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Jordan Almonds Sohnrey Family Foods 41 Skillin Ln, Oroville (530) 871-1975 The holidays wouldn't be complete without a bag of Sohnrey Family Foods' Jordan almonds! Sweet, crunchy, and satisfying, there aren't many items that make a better stocking stuffer.

Gourmet Popcorn Sweet Chico 121 W 3rd St, Chico (530) 332-9866 Count down the 12 days of Christmas with this delicious calendar of gourmet popcorn kernels and seasonings!

Sea salt & caramel, dill pickle, cheddar cheese, and ranch flavors create unique experiences with each of the eight kernel varieties contained within. It's a gift the whole family will enjoy!

Knaughty Farms Olive Oil BAPA's Market 1920 Market Pl Suite 120, Chico (530) 303-9371 When it comes to olive oil, we're undoubtedly blessed in Northern California. Although there's a wide variety of purveyors to choose from, Knaughty Farms continues to be one of our favorites, and not just because of its irreverent name either! Any one of their coldpressed, locally grown, extra virgin olive oils belong on this page, and pair exquisitely with any of the items displayed here.

The Matador Raging Bull Vineyard 18850 Newville Road, Orland (801) 554-8436 A full-bodied and boldly fruit forward red wine blend, The Matador is approachable and delicious.

Fresh red and black fruits come forth with elegant notes of dried herbs, cinnamon, and vanilla, creating a broad mid-palate juciness. The lingering finish is pleasing and velvety-smooth with hints of black pepper, and cassis.

Marigold Balsamic Vinegar Marigold Marketplace 2500 Durham-Dayton Hwy #8, Durham (530) 433-0695 Created by Enfuso for Marigold Marketplace using their highest level of premium balsamic vinegar, this is a bottle that should always be available in your kitchen. Often compared to a vecchio grade certified balsamic that can sell for 4 times as much, a bottle of this will be more than well received by any foodie on your list.

Beer Brittle Joy Lyn's Candies 220 Pearson Rd, Paradise (530) 872-9167 Pound for pound, there are few treats quite like Joy Lyn's Beer Brittle. Introduced in 2009, the small-batch, homemade, old-fashioned treat has been reinvented with fresh jalapeños cooked into each batch giving the peanut brittle a delightful kick to each satisfying and crunchy bite!

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Men's Bi-Fold Wallet w/Left Flip The Watchman 130 W 3rd St, Chico (530) 566-9110 Just when you thought this wallet couldn't possibly hold more cards, a secret left-flip compartment proves you wrong. Ideal for the guy who can't leave home without every card he's ever owned, this wallet makes space for it all.

Patagonia Better Sweater Fleece Jacket Mountain Sports 176 E 3rd St (530) 345-5011 Whether you wear it as a jacket on the town or under a shell in colder weather, you can't go wrong with the Better Sweater Fleece Jacket. If versatility matters, you won't want to leave it off your holiday shopping list.

Folding Ray Ban Wayfarer Sunglasses North Valley Eye Care (Optical) 1700 Bruce Rd, Chico (530) 891-1900 There are few sunglass styles as recognizable as Ray Ban's Wayfarer, but their folding option takes the style to another level. Compact and light, these can fit in your front pocket for easy storage when indoors.

Monkey Face Hoodie Bidwell Supply Company 138 Main St, Chico (530) 566-9177 With local pride on every item they sell, Bidwell Supply Company's threads are as fashionable as they are comfortable. With iconic destinations like Monkey Face, Salmon Hole, and many others, finding the perfect hoodie for the guy in your life couldn't be easier.

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Woodchuck Journals Chico Paper Company 345 Broadway St, Chico (530) 891-0900 Handcrafted in St. Paul, Minnesota, these Woodchuck adventure journals are the perfect companion to camping trips or a bedside nightstand. Just the right size to squeeze into a stocking, these journals are something every guy will love.

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Trail Breeze Weekender Anika Burke 211 Main St, Chico (530) 918-8850 Whether for work, gym, or a quick getaway, this handy carry-all Trail Breeze Weekender is handcrafted from durable cotton canvas with genuine leather accents and recycled nickle-free hardware organizing all your essentials for any occasion.

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LEGO Technic Learning Express 605 Mangrove Ave Suite 140, Chico (530) 636-4810 Standing the test of time, LEGO continues to deliver generation after generation, and the new Technic offerings are no slouch! Check out all the LEGO offerings at Learning Express and prepare to be impressed. They've come a long way since we were kids!

PicassoTiles Magnet Cube Farm House Building Set Three Little Birds 708 4th St, Orland | (530) 354-3358 Let your child's imagination run wild with this awesome farm house building block set! With 72 1"x1" blocks, each printed with six different sides, the combinations are vast and the fun endless.

Jellycat Vivien Reindeer Bird In Hand 320 Broadway St, Chico (530) 893-0545 If you haven't stepped into the Jellycat craze yet, buckle up. Easily the most sought-after kids' gift season after season, the Jellycat series combines ultrasoft plush with exquisite attention to detail. Bird In Hand has you covered with hundreds of options to choose from.

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Spot Launch & Fetch Tennis Ball Launcher Trailblazer Pet Supply 1354 East Ave Ste S 2275 Springfield Dr Ste 120 752 Mangrove Ave All locations in Chico (530) 892-1848 Don't forget about man's best friend this holiday season!

Save your shoulder from wear and tear by letting this tennis ball launcher do the work for you! Launch tennis balls up to 65 feet over and over again.

Smiling pup guaranteed!

Farm Girl Artistry Farmhouse Cottage 1346 Myers St, Oroville (530) 712-9022 Adorn the house with these adorable critter prints by Farm Girl Artistry. You'll find a wide selection of them at Farmhouse Cottage in Oroville along with many other specialty prints that are sure to brighten up any space.

Goat Yoga Game Kusel's Big Store 858 Montgomery St, Oroville (530) 693-4030 Goat yoga is all over the news these days, but if you aren't quite ready to commit to yoga with a wild animal just yet, perhaps dip your toe in with this goat yoga game that is sure to keep the laughs rolling at every holiday party this year.

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DIY Gifts in a jar for the Holidays Homemade Vanilla Extract

Simmer Pot Potpourri

Hot Chocolate Mix

Ingredients: • 2-3 vanilla beans • 1 cup vodka (or bourbon for a richer flavor)

Ingredients: • 1 orange, sliced • 2 cinnamon sticks • 1 tablespoon whole cloves • 1-2 sprigs of fresh rosemary • 1 star anise (optional for extra spice)

Ingredients: • 1/2 cup cocoa powder • 1/2 cup powdered milk • 1/2 cup powdered sugar • 1/4 cup mini chocolate chips • Mini marshmallows (optional, for topping)

Instructions: 1. Layer the ingredients in a small jar, keeping the orange slices on the side so they’re visible from the outside.

Instructions: 1. Layer the cocoa powder, powdered milk, powdered sugar, and chocolate chips in a clean jar, ending with mini marshmallows on top if desired.

Instructions: 1. Slice the vanilla beans lengthwise and place them in a clean glass jar.

2. Pour vodka (or bourbon) over the beans until they’re fully submerged.

3. Seal the jar tightly and store it in a cool, dark place for at least 6-8 weeks, shaking the jar occasionally.

Tips for Gifting: Attach a label with the date it’ll be ready to use (if it’s still infusing) and instructions to keep it in a cool, dark place.

Decorate with a ribbon or a festive tag, and consider including a note on how to refresh the vanilla extract by topping it off with more vodka as it’s used.

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2. Add a small tag with instructions: “Add contents to a pot with 3 cups of water and simmer on low. Refill water as needed to keep the scent going.”

Tips for Gifting: A rustic jar with a holiday bow works well here. You could also include a small note about the warmth and coziness a simmer pot brings during wintertime.

WRITTEN BY MICHAELA GULBRANSEN

Here’s a festive guide to creating charming DIY Christmas gifts in jars—perfect for neighbors, teachers, or anyone on your list! These thoughtful gifts are easy to make, personalized, filled with holiday cheer, and sure to bring joy to anyone who receives them. Whether it’s the warm scent of a simmer pot, the indulgence of homemade vanilla, or a cozy mug of hot cocoa, these jars are filled with the holiday spirit.

Here are three ideas to get started:

2. Attach instructions: “Mix 3 tablespoons of hot chocolate mix with 1 cup of hot milk or water. Stir until smooth and enjoy!”

Tips for Gifting: A jar of this mix tied with a candy cane and a festive ribbon makes a wonderful presentation.

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Ten Years of Rage-a-delic Funk In March, Smokey the Groove will celebrate the ten-year anniversary of their horn-driven rage funk, whose style stands alone among Chico area bands. Smokey is wacky, spontaneous, unpredictable, yet polished on stage, and their music attracts a huge dance crowd as well as people who just love it.

The group consists of Kevin Killion, Austin Farwell, Eric Jones, Dean Simcox, Cody Naab, and Erock Lefevers. When they play, it is a crazy funkadelic music blast party. They’ve played in Santa Cruz, Medford, Portland, Sacramento, Reno, and Chico at the Summer Kick-Off Party with The Funnels and Dylan’s Dharma.

They are currently working on a fourth album. “The last few years have been a time to take a deep dive into our music,” said Killion.

“We do this for the music, fun, and truly with friends.”

“I just love the guys,” said Lefevers. “Playing with them is a form of therapy.”

The group practices weekly. “We’re lucky to have a great place to practice,” said Farwell. Dan Diestel has been great in letting us use his huge workshop.” Their next Chico appearance will be on December 27 at The Big Room with Sunny Acres.

We covered Blu Egyptian in 2021 when they were a group of young musicians gaining popularity. Their journey since then has been remarkable and extensive. The list of venues they’ve played is phenomenal, recently topping off with an appearance at The Burning Man Festival.

WRITTEN BY TIM MILHORN

Expanding Westward

Comprised of Don Jules, Zack Graham, Neo Spectrum, and Cam Fuller, Blu Egyptian has traveled thousands of miles since 2021.

“We’re really proud of what we’ve achieved,” said Jules. “We play bigger crowds, travel much farther, and focus on expanding markets.”

“Our musicianship has progressed steadily,” added Zack. “We’ve built a dedicated fan base and, at the same time, stayed true to ourselves.”

The band is embarking on Fall Tour 2024, which kicked off in Chico at The Commons. They will play various venues across the West, including Arcata, Santa Monica, Las Vegas, San Diego, Tucson, Phoenix, Telluride, and Moab.

“Now we rub shoulders with bands we used to listen to,” said Cam. “Hard work pays off.” Neo said, “We are a lot tighter and more mature. Burning Man was huge for us.”

Their next Chico appearance will be on New Year’s Eve at Lost on Main. Check them out on all social media.

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Don’t Get Left In The Dark

4742 Skyway, Paradise | CA LIC#: 893826 | (530) 345-0005

WRITTEN BY TIM MILHORN

The imaging technology and expertise you need is back in Paradise.

Adventist Health is investing in your care with advanced imaging at our Feather River Health Center, including MRIs, mammograms and DEXA Scans. These tools help detect health issues early. Ask your primary care provider how to use these services in Paradise.

To learn more, call 530-332-1901 or visit AdventistHealthFeatherRiver.org/Imaging

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EGGNOG: IT'S A RIOT

Eggnog has reportedly existed since Medieval times. It can be traced back to a drink called “posset,” a warm, milk-based concoction with spices and wine. Posset was mostly used as a remedy for colds and the flu. As the years went by, people added egg yolks and sugar, and the eggnog we know today was born.

George Washington enjoyed serving eggnog during Christmas at Mount Vernon. The “Old Farmer’s Almanac” said it was one of his favorite concoctions.

The recipe is still around today, and it is a doozy. Liquor included one pint of brandy, half a pint of rye whiskey, half a pint of Jamaican rum, and a quarter pint of sherry. That would make your false teeth fly out. Double yikes!

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President Dwight D. Eisenhower also had a potent eggnog recipe. Ike was wellknown for using cooking to de-stress from the rigors of presidential life. In short form, his eggnog recipe included a dozen egg yolks, one pound of sugar, a quart of bourbon, a quart of half-and-half, and a quart of whipping cream. Yum. That’s a diet buster right there.

One item to note is that there is no “right’ or “wrong” alcohol to use in eggnog. The old standards are brown liquors like rum, cognac, whiskey, and sherry. The darker distilled spirits balance out the sweet flavor of the nog. And who says you have to include alcohol in your eggnog? Not me. You can slug down all the eggnog you want from the carton. People tend to either hate or love eggnog. I don’t drink it because I’m a carton sipper; I just can’t stop till it’s gone.

WRITTEN BY TIM MILHORN

The Eggnog Riot, a.k.a. The Grog Mutiny, occurred in 1826. West Point Superintendent Colonel Sylvanus Thayer had forbidden alcohol on campus. You could not purchase, store, or consume alcohol on the grounds. However, cadets, being young, boisterous, and a tad rebellious, spiked the eggnog with a goodly amount of booze, and a drunken riot ensued. Two officers were assaulted, furniture was broken, swords were drawn, and a few gunshots were fired. Luckily, no one was seriously hurt, but 19 cadets and one soldier were court-martialed, and 12 cadets were expelled. Yikes.

A few interesting facts about eggnog include where the name comes from.

Many etymologists believe it stems from the word “noggin,” which refers to the small wooden cup in which it was served.

Others think it refers to the slang term “nog,” which refers to the strong ales of yesteryear.

One thing is sure: December 24 is National Eggnog Day, so be sure to get your eggnog on this Christmas Eve!

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Eggnog Custard Pie If you're anything like us, the holidays wouldn't be quite the same without eggnog. The aroma and flavor alone stir up a vast network of memories ranging from childhood Christmas Eves, anxiously waiting for Christmas day to arrive, to parties as an adult, celebrating community and friendship. Eggnog leaves an indelible mark, and although we love it in its most common form, we decided to elevate it this season into something even more exciting. Best of all, this recipe couldn't be easier. Merry Christmas and happy holidays, everyone!

Ingredients - Refrigerated graham cracker or regular pie crust - 1/2 cup sugar - 2 1/2 cups eggnog (we recommend Turkey Hill) - 4 eggs - Freshly-grated nutmeg - Plenty of cinnamon powder

Directions 1. Heat oven to 425°F. Place pie crust in 9-inch pie pan. Bake at 425°F for 8 to 10 minutes or until golden brown. Reduce temperature to 350°F. 2. Combine sugar, eggnog and eggs in a large bowl. Mix well until totally incorporated. Pour into crust and sprinkle with nutmeg.

3. Bake at 350°F for 40 to 45 minutes or until almost set—middle of filling should be soft.

Cover edge of crust with strips of foil after 10 minutes of baking to prevent additional browning. Cool 2 hours or until completely cooled, sprinkle with cinnamon, and store in refrigerator.

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Full Circle

If you want to audibly express pleasure awkwardly from eating food, look no further than Tacos El Mariachi. When I say their signature birria pizza is fire, it’s not just due to the orange hue of the golden crispy cheese staring directly back at you in admiration. These are the flavors that lift a business above its competition.

Starting with oversized tortillas, they spread a thin layer of their “avocado” salsa and sour cream–then fill it with birria pork, onion, and a blend of mozzarella and Cotija cheese. The finished product is large enough to split between two or three people, though you’re likely to try to finish it yourself. The crackling texture of the melted cheese exterior, 58

complemented with arguably the best consommé I’ve had, makes this pizza truly one of a kind.

Need more sauce? They’ve got options. This is served with enough lime wedges to adequately dress each slice, an additional side portion of their avocadoless “avocado” salsa (whose green color comes from cilantro while still retaining its mild creamy texture), spicy Oaxillo chili sauce, sour cream, and slices of radish, which are quintessential to the street taco experience that Tacos El Mariachi provides.

WRITTEN BY JASON CORONA

Starting an article on local food with the sentiment of disappointment is not normal, but it’s completely justified in this case. Let me explain. Not only did we miss the above item in this year's ode to pizza but also in our food truck-devoted series titled “Taco Tracker” from 2021 to 2022. Regardless of how this gem slipped through the cracks, I highly encourage anyone who reads this to visit this truck and tell them we sent you.

Owners Giovanni and Vanessa explained that their truck has been open for three years, but they’ve been serving this pizza for two, and it has become a menu staple. They’ll soon be opening up a little further down the road on Oro Dam Blvd in the previous location of Meg’s Good Earth, with an expanded menu and drivethrough window. Their easily identifiable orange truck is a short hike away, next to Blaze N J’s in Oroville. Place your orders by phone at (530) 703-7064 or stop by 695 Oro Dam Blvd in Oroville.

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Inspiring young entrepreneurs

A budding artist and entrepreneur, Malia Cox turns heads with her intricate henna designs at the Thursday Night Market Young Entrepreneurs Booths. Malia hosts her market booth, creating stunning, temporary henna art for marketgoers, showcasing her passion and talent, and growing her business, Henna Designs by Malia. Malia is no stranger to art. Born and raised in Hawaii before coming to Chico, she is inspired by nature’s elements. Her passion for detail, beauty, and adornment can be seen at her website www.maliabf.com or on Instagram @hennadesigns.bymalia A student at Inspire School of Arts and Sciences, Malia is just one of the many 60

young entrepreneurs benefiting from the Thursday Night Market platform, which encourages innovation and supports the next generation's dreams. This initiative opens doors for students across Chico to gain firsthand business experience—from customer service to managing finances.

The success of Malia and others like her highlights the importance of initiatives that nurture the youth's enterprising spirit.

The long-term goal is to create unique local businesses going from pop-up markets to brick-and-mortar.

As part of celebrating downtown small businesses at Small Business Saturday, on November 30th, 3CORE showcased more young entrepreneurs at the pop-up market on Fourth Street. To continue the young entrepreneurs’ experience and skills, 3CORE is hosting a special program pairing young business owners with experienced consultants. Following Small Business Saturday, the young entrepreneur participants can receive ongoing mentoring and business guidance. 3CORE will connect youth participants with seasoned professionals to help refine business ideas, create strategies for growth, and provide valuable insights from a range of business leaders. This collaboration will help young entrepreneurs gain the tools they need to thrive in the local business community.

WRITTEN BY LUCIA MERCADO

The Young Entrepreneurs Initiative, a collaboration spearheaded by the Downtown Chico Business Association, 3CORE, and Team Chic, is providing aspiring youth an opportunity to display their products, be exposed to customers, and learn what it is like to own and operate a small business. Eighteen young entrepreneurs, ages 8 to 18, have had an opportunity to have booths sponsored by 3CORE and Team Chico at the Downtown Chico Thursday Night Markets. This introduces youth to real-life business and helps them develop skills, build brands, and engage directly with the public.

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bring us home Butte County has an inordinately high number of animals in need of adoption due to a number of factors including wildfires, floods, and irresponsible breeding. Please consider adoption as an option for increasing the love in your own household. These soon-to-be pets can be adopted by calling the Chico Animal Shelter at (530) 894-5630.

You can also visit their website at www.chicoanimalshelter.org

Alani

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4 year old spayed female

Cricket

KYRA

6 year old spayed female

Dijon

TROY

2 year old neutered male

JAVA

3 year old spayed female

2 year old spayed female

2 year old neutered male

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le

63

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64

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