Upgraded Living - March 2024

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SKIN EXAMS ACNE

MOLE CHECKS & REMOVALS

SKIN CANCER SCREENINGS BOTOX & FILLER

Ramneet Basra, PA-C

Kirsten Schwab, PA-C

ECZEMA

DRY & ITCHY SKIN

TCA PEELS

Ann Frisius, FNP

Gagan Takhar, PA-C

SCHEDULE NOW *Appointment requests must be received before 9 AM to be scheduled. *Appointments subject to availability.

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ADDING

TO YEARS

NOT JUST YEARS TO Board-certified dermatologist Dr. Kafele T. Hodari and his team of medical professionals at Hodari MD Dermatology comprise a comprehensive dermatology practice in Chico, Oroville, and Yuba City.

Whether you have a medical, surgical, or aesthetic concern, you'll receive personalized care from some of the most highly trained providers in the area. Our patients can feel assured that they are getting the best, most effective care when they walk through the door.

Love Your Skin ® and Improve Your Health.

Kafele T. Hodari, MD

1178 LIVE OAK BLVD YUBA CITY, CA 95991 (530) 329-8511

Imelda Mata, PA-C

Marianna Almanza, PA-C

80 DECLARATION DR. CHICO, CA 95973 (530) 342-8295

Jina Bryant, FNP

672 ORO DAM BLVD E. SUITE 202 OROVILLE, CA 95965 (530) 533-3571 3

CHICO’S CULINARY SCENE, CONTINUES AN ELEVATED EXPERIENCE: @namasakechico

Nama Sake is pleased to announce the welcoming of new executive chef, Jack Chaikampa, as well as the promotion of 20-year Chico veteran Chef Tanner Cartledge to Head Chef. Tanner has trained in Tokyo, Japan and Hawaii, but you may remember him locally from Gen Kai, Japanese Blossom, Aonami, Raw Bar, and most recently Izakaya. Chef Jack brings international experience as well as having held positions of Head and Executive Chef in many US locations including the Los Angeles area.

We encourage you to experience the 15 to 45 day dry aged fishes from Japan as well as unique presentations and specialty fusion dishes.

Reserve a table at

namasake.com

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FROM THE PUBLISHER Anyone who knows me knows I love a good DIY project. It's been a problem and taken up an inordinate amount of my time for as long as I can remember. Whether at my home or at the office, it always seems like there's something that could be improved, even if just ever so slightly.

In my early 20s, it was less of an issue—I might get inspired by a show on HGTV, happen upon a style innovation at a friend's house, or take notice of something unique during my travels.

I say it was less of an issue, but my roommate at the time, J.R. Lunsford, started a website called Project: Aveed to document those undertakings—many left incomplete. The presentations were fewer and farther between, and that gave my chaos the bumpers it needed to at least stay somewhat in its lane.

With the advent of Pinterest and Zillow, those presentations have become less of a surprise and more of an onslaught. Don't get me wrong, I'm not doing myself any favors in this arena. I frequent Zillow far too often and usually not because I'm in the market to buy real estate. There's something thrilling about getting a sneak peek into the homes that surround us, and I take the opportunity for that dopamine rush far too often. Paired with Pinterest, all bets are off. A nightly doom-scroll before bed is far too common these days and perhaps the worst time to do it, as I'm not only left interested in the incredible style and design hacks I've seen but also have them top of mind to invade my dreams. I wake up having focused on them for far longer than any one man should and have no alternative but to act on them.

It's like not being able to get a song out of your head until you finally play it to placate the beast—the difference being one takes three minutes and the other three months.

As I mentioned in my last publisher's note, I just turned 40 in February, and I've taken the milestone to make a number of changes in my life. One of those changes is to give up the vast majority of my DIY inclinations. If there's a project I feel could change my life for the better, I won't ignore it, but I will find someone who can do it better, faster, and without my help. The timing is perfect, because this issue introduced me to a wealth of them. Rather than spending my time working on something in the hopes of someday enjoying it, I'm finding someone else to do it so I can spend my time enjoying it. It may seem like a small change, but as J.R. would likely tell you if he were still with us, it's one of the biggest—and certainly most valuable—changes I've ever made. I hope you use this issue to create that time for yourself by finding others who are experts in bringing your dreams to life. We are lucky to have no shortage of them in Butte County.

UPGRADED LIVING STAFF AVEED KHAKI Owner/Publisher JASON CORONA Sales Director

WRITERS SHELLY BRANDON Writer TIM MILHORN Writer MADDIE RODRIGUEZ Writer MICHAELA GULBRANSEN Writer DIANE NICOLE Cover Story Photographer ERIK BROWN Cover Design

CONTRIBUTORS DOUG LOVE Real Estate TIA AUSTIN Interior Design BRAD WANTT Organization MARC WESLEY Health & Fitness

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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CONTENTS | MARCH 2024

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HOME

POTPOURRI

12 Curves and contours: Rouben Mohiuddin and DesignSI create life throughout the space at Rejuvene.

28 What cannot be bought or sold—the story of a child's secret and majestic oasis, as told by Doug Love

14 Wishes and wishbones: a ’60s Capay ranch home breaks out from the past with New Again.

52 How sound travels: Kai Music and Arts brings Bay Area and Socal names to town while helping local charities.

18 Looking for the right fit to complete your upcoming project? Get familiar with some of the area professionals throughout Butte County in our home and garden series.

59 Brick by brick, the young Lego-loving Hudson Haltom’s story is told.

22 Stephanie Mullin and the vivid inspirations that bring space and functionality to the clients of Schwinteriors 38 To reduce clutter is to remove chaos: Brad Wantt takes us inside the practice of In Flow Organization.

58 Masterfully designing your own space is as easy as 1-2-3.... 4-5-6-7-8! Learn how to design the perfect space in eight simple steps as instructed

by Finds Design & Decor's resident designer, Tia Austin.

60 Butte Humane's most eligible adoptees have us convincing ourselves that we could totally make space for another pet.

FEATURE 34 Looking from all angles: KP Design takes the design and renovation business to the next level. Creating community, designing dreams, and building business all from a new approach.

ON THE COVER: KP DESIGN

GLOW UP

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20 Experience and compassion take center stage with one of Butte County's favorite dentists, Dr. Charles Sannar.

62 A quality coach make's all the difference. Marc Wesley of Lions Den and Nutrishop Chico explains why.

FOOD 48 What is Picadillo and why am I drooling on this magazine? Check out this recipe for a taste of the southwest.

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54 You say, “Potato.” I say, “Get it my belly!” Read all about this month's ingredient, our favorite starch, in Tim Milhorn's March-inspired deep dive.

PHOTO COURTESY: DIANE NICOLE PHOTOGRAPHY DESIGN BY ERIK BROWN @ HELLO FRISK

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A Dream Realized Turning dreams into reality is no easy task, but it is the metric by which Rouben Mohiuddin and his team at DesignSI judge themselves. Having undertaken countless design projects throughout the North Valley, each with its own unique and specific needs, the team has delivered on that mission time and time again. Though each project certainly offers its feeling of accomplishment at completion, some simply stand out. That is the case with DesignSI’s largest commercial project to date—designing the expansion of Rejuvené, a dream of Chico dermatologist, Dr. Kafele Hodari.

“When Rouben and I first met, he told me he was an architectural and interior designer. When it came time to expand my business, he was my first consideration.” Dr. Hodari said, “I studied service marketing in business school and one of my professors always emphasized how people make their judgments about an experience from several factors—it starts in the parking lot, continues through the lobby, and eventually into the rooms. There needs to be care shown at every step. I explained all of this to Rouben on a big-picture level, and he completely understood it. As a dermatology office and medical spa, it was important to have each one’s needs met separately, and Rouben was able to make that happen.”

Rouben and Dr. Hodari held various design meetings, some involving the entire Rejuvené team, to gather feedback. This was followed by sessions with builder Richard Billson to finalize the layout, design, and details.

Working in tandem, they brought Dr. Hodari's vision to life, resulting in the captivating space that is Rejuvené.

“Rouben is a professional and a process guy.” Dr. Hodari said, “He’s thorough and patient in putting everything together, and his job wasn’t easy—translating what I emotionally described into specific design elements that incorporated the practical side of what I was looking for. He was there for the whole project and was very collaborative throughout.

Best of all, he worked with Richard to make sure we were able to save money wherever possible without sacrificing anything. I absolutely love the space. In particular, Rouben added this brown motif to the ceiling that was supposed to represent the skin. We have a square-shaped angular space with gray tones, and that final design element added warmth, texture, and curvature, which was helpful. It’s carried from the product room through the reception area and the medical side. The ceilings are tall, there’s an expansiveness about the space, and our employees are happy to come to work. It checked all the boxes, and everything coming together was just a dream come true.”

The design elements were so effective that Dr. Hodari was thrilled to be able to repeat them in his satellite offices in Oroville and Yuba City.

“Rouben empowered us with his knowledge and created something easy for us to implement without having to go through additional redesigns.” Dr. Hodari said, “I would recommend Rouben to anyone looking at designing their dream space. He’s talented and very artistic; he can combine several elements while remaining patient and working with you throughout the process. I’m always thinking about bigger projects and always have he and his team in the back of my mind.”

If you’re looking to make your dream space a reality, reach out to Rouben and his team at DesignSI. You can contact them by phone at (530) 965-5731 or find them online at www.DesignSi.net 12

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Upholding a legacy Throughout the Northstate, there are longstanding stories of families whose members have left and found their way back, generation after generation. With their return, they reaffirm their commitment to the North Valley, carrying on their family’s legacy and bringing with them stories that detail the rich history of the area. The majority of these families tend to come from an agricultural background, and the Rath family has one such story.

Ron Rath grew up just north of Chico on his family’s ranch in Capay. Purchased by his grandfather in the early 1930s, the 40-acre 14

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plot of land served as a functioning turkey ranch through much of the 20th century with upwards of 8,000 feathered inhabitants claiming residence at any one time. Unlike many turkey ranches, they raised their turkeys for fertilized eggs, selling them to other turkey ranches who bred turkeys for food. Ron’s father grew up in the original farmhouse, married his mother, and the two started having some turkeys of their own.

When they began to outgrow the family farmhouse in 1962, the two built a new home and raised their five children there.

“It’s incredible to think how much of my life has been spent in this house.” Ron said as

his eyes welled with tears, “Every square inch of it has a memory.”

Ron moved to Stockton to attend college but, as the story often goes, returned to his roots shortly after graduating. He began working in Corning for Holiday Markets and met his wife Melody, a Flournoy native and banker, at the bank he did business at.

The two hit it off and eventually moved into his childhood home in Capay, with two of his siblings living nearby with their families in their own homes on the family ranch.

Eventually, the siblings sold off 38 of the 40 acres and retained two for themselves.

Ron remained in the grocery business with Holiday Markets for 43 years, eventually retiring to spend some well-earned time at home with Melody. Though nostalgic, the couple’s home had begun to show signs of wear and tear, and no area was its age as evident as in the kitchen. Original to 1962, the old standard wood cabinets, Formica countertops, and hardware had given their all to the Rath family. To make matters worse, the layout was isolating, with large overhead cabinets cutting the dining room off from anyone toiling away in the kitchen. “Melody suggested we remove the overhead cabinets that split the space.” Ron said, “I replied, ‘You’re not changing this around! This is how it was when we were kids!’ In the end, it was the best idea ever. It was also right around the time that I stopped offering my two cents on kitchen design.”

In need of a refresh, they began looking into ways to renovate the space and remembered Ric Powers, an old friend from high school, happened to be in the industry. “Ric and I played in band together.” Ron recalled, “We were in different grades, but I remember he was always a great guy.

We heard he was working at New Again Kitchen Remodeling, so we decided to make it our first stop. As it turned out, we only needed one.”

Ron and Melody visited Ric at New Again and the three meshed immediately. “Melody and Ric were like two peas in a pod.” Ron laughed, “Both of them share a love for design, and they just buzzed around each other like busy bees the whole time.”

Melody smiled, “Ric was really just a joy to work with. He was so understanding of our needs and so helpful in making suggestions that matched those needs. He didn’t make us feel like we didn’t know what was going on. We weren’t designers by any means, but he made the experience exciting for both of us. It’s nice to have an expert in front of you who doesn’t make you feel like an amateur. We didn’t know what went with what exactly, so we told him what we’d like, and he’d make suggestions that helped us connect the dots. If we had any questions, he was always there to help.”

Ron finished, “I even learned my expertise during that experience—step away and sign the checks. It’s nice to feel needed.”

Ron and Melody discussed their budget and options with Ric, and he suggested they have their cabinets painted rather than replace them. Although old, they were solid core wood, meaning the couple could save a decent amount of money by refinishing rather than replacing them. Ric recommended Royal Painting for the project, and offered suggestions on countertops, backsplash, and hardware from New Again. The three came to a consensus on the design, Ric visited their home for final measurements shortly after, and with a plan in mind, they set April 1st as their start date for the project.

The New Again team and Royal Painting arrived on schedule, created a heavy plastic barrier around their workspace and 15

removed the countertops and cabinets, preparing the kitchen for the remodel while protecting the rest of the home from dust and debris. “The prep work was the longest part of the project.”

Ron laughed, “The kitchen looked like something out of the show Dexter!”

Royal Painting took the cabinets back to their shop and refinished them beautifully, painting the base cabinets black and the upper cabinets white to create the dramatic look Melody had envisioned. They returned the cabinets to the residence, and the team from New Again set out to complete the project with sienna quartz countertops and door hardware by Jeffrey Alexander.

Victor Cabrera, New Again’s resident tile expert, tied the space together with a beautiful Bedrosian retro mosaic tile backsplash. Finally, they installed the necessary gas and electric lines to swap the old electric stove for a new natural gas oven and even installed a Dawn USA sink. The end result was just as beautiful as it was dramatic, and the Raths couldn’t have been more thrilled.

“Ric was always around checking in on everything.” Melody said, “I always wanted a dark kitchen and had seen the black and white look somewhere—I just fell in love with it. New Again delivered perfectly on my vision, and I couldn’t be happier with the results.”

“It was just like going in and talking with a friend.” Ron continued, “Ric was so helpful, and I was amazed at how humble he was. He’s done so much work in multi-million dollar homes throughout Pebble Beach, Carmel, and Newport— but you’d never know it by the way he acts. He never made us feel like we knew any less than him, and he used his expertise to take our wants and needs to make our kitchen perfect for us. I would 100% recommend Ric and the team at New Again to friends and family. We would never think about going anywhere else.”

If you’re like Ron and Melody and looking to build the kitchen of your dreams, look no further than New Again. You can get in touch with Ric by calling (530) 899-2888 or visiting them at 1108 Mangrove Avenue in Chico.

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C&A Cleaning Inviting someone to clean your home can be a nerve-wracking experience. You want to be sure they’re someone you can trust with a solid reputation, and C&A Cleaning is exactly that. Originally started by Cindy O’Rear, C&A Cleaning has been doing business in Chico for just over 35 years, a testament to their professionalism and quality of work. Cindy’s daughter, Angela Mundo, joined the business 25 years ago, and the two have been working together ever since, serving Chico, Oroville, Paradise, Magalia, Los Molinos, Corning, Capay, Willows, and Red Bluff. They offer commercial and residential cleaning services including ultrasonic blind cleaning and move-out cleaning. They also have an air purifying treatment machine to take any lingering or hard-to-remove odors out of vacant homes. C&A Cleaning cleans, dusts, and wipes everything you can see from ceiling to floor in your home or business. If you could use a break from cleaning, give them a call today.

CandACleaningChico

1200 West East Avenue, Chico (530) 514-7738 Mon-Fri 8am-8pm | Weekends by appointment

Powell Roofing Your home or business deserves nothing less than the best, and when it comes to roof repairs and maintenance, it's important to call a licensed contractor with ample experience. Powell Roofing, Inc. brings over 35 years of experience to each and every roofing crisis they're presented with and will ensure that you get quality roof repair services when you need them most. If your roof is damaged due to regular wear and tear or sustained damage from a storm, give them a call. Their certified professionals have the expertise to repair any type of roof, including slate, metal, tile, and single-ply TPO. Their polite and courteous crew will make sure that the job sites are cleaned up every day and their equipment vehicles are up-to-date, clean, and presentable. Whether you're in the market for roof cleaning, roof maintenance, storm damage repairs, real estate roof inspections, commercial, or residential, Powell Roofing has you covered!

PowellRoofingInc @PowellRoofingInc www.powellroofinginc.com

43 Norfield Avenue #4 Chico (530) 892-1410 Mon-Fri 7am-4pm

DG Tile Born and raised in Chico, David Gerhardt is a second-generation tile guy. He has been tiling homes and businesses for the past 15 years throughout California and Oregon, where he earned his stripes working on multi-million dollar homes in Bend.

He mastered it all during this time, and there isn’t a job big or small that he can’t do. These days, he finds his forté to be residential work, focusing on kitchens, bathrooms, and whole-house flooring. As he says, “Anyone can tile a shower, but it doesn’t mean they should. Waterproofing it properly is a big test of your skill and knowledge.” He prides himself on making sure every project is completed right the first time and has earned a reputation not only for tiling homes but also for large commercial projects like Walmarts, Les Schwabs, car dealerships, and the Linus Pauling Science Center at OSU. Whether you have a small or large tiling need, call David—we’re lucky to have his level of experience in Chico!

DGTile www.DavidAGerhardtTile.com 18

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(530) 966-7428 Call 7 Days a Week

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both in dentistry and in life. They were great guys, and I felt the camaraderie that I had been missing all those years on my own, so I decided to join them. Within a few weeks, I was working at their office on The Ridge and eventually moved to their Chico location.”

Living One's Destiny Originally from Gridley, Dr. Charles Sannar grew up like many in Northern California, surrounded by farmers and raising sheep in FFA alongside his friends. His father, a mechanic, instilled a love in him for cars from an early age, so much so that he originally expected to follow in his footsteps. He loved working with his hands and took every opportunity he could to carve wood blocks into whatever his mind dreamed up. In high school, he began taking animal science and biology classes to elevate his knowledge for FFA and found that he was good at the subject matter. One of his scout leaders, who happened to be a dentist in Gridley, suggested that his love for animal science and arts might be the perfect combination for a career in dentistry, so he decided to give it a try.

After graduation from high school, Dr. Sannar served a two-year mission in Indiana for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. After returning home, he attended Butte College where he studied biology. His love for the coursework led him to study pre-dental Zoology at BYU in Utah, and it was there that he met Kathy, his wife of 40 years.

They married and had two of their five children before he completed his time at BYU. When it came time to choose a 20

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dental school, they decided to return to his mission field area at Northwestern University in Chicago, Illinois. Four years later, after supporting each other through dental school and no shortage of brutal winters, they decided to return to the moderate temperatures of home in the West.

As luck would have it, a dentist in Paradise was renting from Dr. Sannar‘s in-laws and knew a new office in Orland was searching for a dentist. Dr. Sannar interviewed for the position and was hired shortly thereafter. He worked in Orland, Colusa, Oroville, and Marysville for eight years before opening his own practice.

“I ran my own practice in Live Oak for 23 years.” Dr. Sannar said, “Running your own business can become lonely without other doctors to share camaraderie with and bounce ideas off of. I really yearned for that during those years. Dr. Beau Hunter had shadowed me at my office in Live Oak years before, and I really enjoyed his personality and energy. He heard I was looking to move on from Yuba City—where I had been practicing— and asked me to meet with his partner, Dr. Scott Hanosh, to see if I would be interested in joining them. I found that we shared a lot of the same philosophies,

Though he still offers general dentistry service to his patients, his real forté is in full-mouth reconstructions and smile makeovers, including injury rehabilitation, TM joint issues, and orthodontic procedures. “I really enjoy affixing illfitting dentures to implants and helping alleviate long-term pain and discomfort.”

Dr. Sannar said, “There are few things as frustrating as mouth pain. Giving patients the smile they’ve always hoped for while simultaneously removing the pain gives me a level of satisfaction that’s difficult to find anywhere else! Drs. Hanosh and Hunter are known in the community for offering sedation dentistry that makes dental visits comfortable for fearful patients. I’m excited to be offering that service as well starting in May.” With 33 years of experience as a dentist, Dr. Sannar has seen it all. He has served as the president of the dental society; moonlighted as a trainer for Cerec CAD/ CAM dental systems; and changed the lives of thousands of Northern California residents, one tooth at a time. Through it all, he has remained humble and focused.

He still enjoys working on cars using the tools his dad left him, rides bikes around the Sutter Buttes, sneaks in a round of golf whenever possible, and continues to find his zen in woodworking. “My wife, kids, and grandkids are my true joy. Family is everything to me. I’m just a native California boy who’s blessed to do what I love.” Dr. Sannar smiled, “I love working with people and can never see myself not thinking dentally. My mom told me I would always tap my teeth and say, ‘teeth’ as a toddler. She also said I used to stare at people’s teeth rather than their eyes as a kid. I suppose I was destined for this!”

If your smile could use an upgrade or you’re feeling pain or discomfort in your mouth, give Dr. Sannar a call at Hanosh & Hunter Dental Group. He can be reached in Chico at (530) 413-9544 or in Paradise at (530) 877-0189.

Staffing Made Simple At NPH, we believe that reliability and communication are key. With over 35 years of experience providing staffing solutions, there is no doubt that we will have the perfect match for you.

1 2 Contact Us

We are here to support you! Contact us today at 530.899.2255.

Let Us Know Your Needs We work with each partner facility to identify specific needs.

3

Help Is On The Way We will promptly provide you with quality healthcare professionals.

NPHSTAFFING.COM

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BEFORE

After

BEFORE

after

Bringing your perfect space home Redesigning a reading nook, redecorating a room, or remodeling a kitchen—whatever the size of your project, tackling it on your own can be expensive and overwhelming.

Who hasn’t bought a roomful of pillows, blankets, and accent pieces only to discover they don't work in the space or stared at a room trying to determine the vibe you were looking for?

In October of 2023, Stephanie opened Schwinteriors, whose name is a play on her maiden name. She loves helping clients bring their dream spaces to life. “My focus has always been designing beautiful and 22

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She describes the first step in the process as a sort of meet and greet, where she gets to know the family and their space.

Stephanie determines what they like and don’t like about their current design and what they’d want to see in terms of functionality and aesthetics. As she speaks with the clients, she picks up little bits from the conversations that help direct her towards a sense of style, and she moves from there. There’s always one piece that tends to stand out to Stephanie, and that becomes her inspiration for the rest of the space. She explains, “The whole design kind of blows up from there. That’s normally how it happens, but sometimes clients will have Pinterest boards that I can look at and then pull from areas that I think would look good for the space too.”

She finds a piece that speaks to her and that tumbles into the design. In one recent

project, Stephanie’s inspiration was a gorgeous quartzite slab with green-gray tones. Its vivid veining of taupe, pink, and muted greens echoed what you’d see in the mountains, and she connected with the earthy vibe the client went for. Stephanie shares, “I just loved that she was open to my ideas and making this her beautiful focal piece for the kitchen.” The client wasn’t afraid to go with this bold choice, and the design grew from this striking centerpiece. Stephanie follows every project from start to finish—helping to coordinate contractors, develop a timeline, and oversee installations. She wants to ensure the design comes to life the way she and her client envisioned it—that everything comes together to make the space feel like home.

Whether you’re looking for a mood board or a remodel, you can see Stephanie’s gorgeous transformations at Schwinteriors on Instragram or Facebook. Head to her website at www.schwinteriors.com and find out more about how she can help you discover your perfect space. Call or text (707) 350-2580 to schedule your meet and greet.

WRITTEN BY SHELLY BRANDON

Stephanie Mullin of Schwinteriors can help you conceptualize your ideas and design the perfect space for your home.

Stephanie graduated from Chico State in 2015 with a degree in Interior Design and Architecture and “fell in love with the aspect of residential design.” She completed her internship at Nantucket Home and says, “It was exciting to be in the real world of design life and see how everything works.”

They offered her a permanent position at the store, and she went on to work there as a designer for the next eight years.

functional homes, and I’m grateful for the opportunity that Schwinteriors provides to do just that.” Whether it’s an entire remodel project or just help in selecting home furnishings, Stephanie loves immersing herself in the creativity interior design offers.

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Sal Rodriguez Landscapes, LLC Originally from Oroville, Sal Rodriguez has been landscaping as long as he can remember. He began working for a contractor landscaping new builds as a side job while working in law enforcement and found the homeowners reaching out to him directly for maintenance. He decided to make it official and opened his business, Sal Rodriguez Landscapes, LLC, in 2001. Since then, the company has grown immensely. Sal now offers everything from concrete to landscaping and outdoor kitchens to arbors, but he is best known for his high-end custom work including waterfalls, bogs, putting greens, retaining walls, sidewalks, and native landscaping.

Sal and his crew still offer standard mow and blow yard maintenance services throughout Northern California as well. Most recently, Sal opened a massive nursery and landscape statuary which is open to the public six days a week. If you’re tired of breaking your back landscaping, you better call Sal! RodriguezLandscapes www.RodriguezLandscapes.net

(530) 532-9303 1501 Titan Way, Oroville Mon-Sat 7am-3:30pm

Square Deal Mattress Factory Square Deal Mattress Factory is California’s only 104-year-old, family-run mattress factory. They make their mattresses the traditional way with human hands and the highest quality craftsmanship. Their legacy and traditions have been handed down for generations; combining the highest quality with the best possible prices— that is how their founder, Ennis Rife, came up with the name Square Deal. Four generations later, Ennis’ philosophy of creating better sleep for better health in his community is carried on by his grandson and great-granddaughters. They make a quality, long-lasting, two-sided mattress and are glad to have their crew flip it for you. At Square Deal, they are grateful to their community for the many years of local support. This local connection allows them to have a direct, personal relationship with the customers who enjoy their products every day. Call (530) 342-2510 or email info@squaredealmattress.com for more information!

SquareDealMattress @SquareDealMattress www.squaredealmattress.com

1354 Humboldt Ave, Chico (530) 342-2510 Mon-Fri 9am-5pm | Sat 10am-4pm

Innovative Heating & Air Being in the HVAC industry for 18 years, Dereck Nail set out on his own in 2020, opening Innovative Heating & Air in Oroville. Specializing in whole-house energy efficiency, he and his team provide solutions for new construction homes, commercial projects, and residential remodels. They are also your first call for maintenance and repair of your existing units to ensure proper operation and efficiency. They work with California’s energy rebate programs and focus on increasing comfort while decreasing energy costs to homeowners and business owners alike. Whether with tankless water heaters, heat pump water heaters, or mini-split systems, Innovative Heating & Air has the knowledge, experience, and expertise to ensure that the proper product is installed right the first time at the best possible price. Call Dereck and his team today to see what they can do for you. www.innovativeheatingandair.com 4572 Olive Hwy, Oroville Mon-Fri 7am-5pm | Sat-Sun Emergency Only (530) 990-0956 24

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Chico Fireplace & Wood Stove Family-owned and operated for over 20 years, Chico Fireplace & Wood Stove has been the go-to dealer for all things hearth-related in the Northstate. Whether woodstoves, gas, or electric, their products are all EPA 2020 approved so you don’t have to worry about guidelines of when not to burn. Whether new construction or remodels, they have the know-how to make any space cozier at a price you’re sure to love. Many stoves offer a 30% tax credit which provides an even greater incentive to switch to their product lines. They service everything in-house and even offer chimney sweeps for considerably less than the competition. Beyond the hearth, they offer outdoor barbecues and financing on their gas and electric products, with woodstove financing on the way. With new management in place, they’re excited to bring friendly family values and service to the table for residents throughout the North Valley.

3029 Esplanade #11, Chico (530) 343-0821 Mon-Fri 9am-5pm | Sat 10am-2pm

www.chicofireplace.com

Accurate Plumbing Originally from Chico, Gene Hubbard began plumbing in 2001 and eventually opened his business, Accurate Plumbing, in 2005. Since then, the company has grown by leaps and bounds. Today, Accurate Plumbing has eight service vans and employs eight technicians along with five apprentices who are currently learning the trade. They pride themselves in their ability to get out to the majority of their customers the same day a call is made, unsurprisingly earning a five-star rating on every review platform in the process. Gene and his team service all of Northern California, from Yuba City to Redding, and are opening a satellite office in Red Bluff this month to make their response time even more expedient.

Whether you need help with water leaks, leak detection, water heaters, dripping faucets, running toilets, or if you’ve just noticed your CalWater bill spike, make sure to call Accurate Plumbing for the fix.

AccuratePlumbingChico www.accurateplumbingchico.com

2288 Park Avenue, Ste. A, Chico (530) 894-1800 8am-5pm Monday-Friday | 24/7 - Emergency Service

Towne Flooring Center Towne Flooring Center—previously Towne Carpet—has been around since 1968. It was originally started by Larry Garten, then later sold to his daughter Marcy Nonaka, Tom Sigel, and Henry Inouye. The business was eventually purchased by employees-turned-current-owners, Dayle Evenson and Penny Oswood. Dayle was an installer for 28 years, and Penny was the company's salesperson for 20 years, before the two purchased the business. Towne Flooring is a full-service destination, including installation with extensive product knowledge. They offer wood, laminate, luxury vinyl plank, and carpet in both residential and commercial applications. The only floor product not offered is ceramic tile. Towne is also well-known for its property management services throughout Butte County. As the third set of owners, Dayle and Penny are doing their part to continue Towne's legacy.

TowneCarpet www.TowneCarpet.com 26

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1080 E 20th Street, Chico (530) 343-0215 Mon-Fri 8am-5:30pm | Sat 9am-4pm

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Secret Garden When I was told this month’s theme is home and garden, my memory took me back to a special secret garden and its special owner.

I caught sight of this kid crawling through the weeds at the back of a property I was listing. Her red hair gave her away, contrasted among the yellow weeds. She disappeared.

“Is that Flora way back there?” I asked Mrs. Hart.

Mrs. Hart pulled on her cigarette. “Oh, probably,” she said. “That kid’s in a world of her own. Tell her to come in, will ya?”

I walked toward the back of the oneacre lot through knee-high dry weeds on a narrow path that ended in a scrub of manzanita brush in front of a stand of sycamores.

I crawled through the scratchy manzanita into a hidden and lush little oasis walled by the brush and the back fence; domed by the sycamores. The centerpiece of this secret garden was a rusted hose bib atop a standpipe about three feet tall. Beads of water dripped slowly from the hose bib into a shallow pool surrounding the base of the standpipe. The place was a tiny green paradise surrounded by dry fields.

Flora sat cross-legged beside the pool.

She looked sad. She didn’t acknowledge my arrival into her secret world.

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I had met nine-year-old Flora the day before and felt bad when her dad yelled at her for objecting to the sale of their house. Her dad signed the listing agreement. Flora gave us the stink-eye.

This day I smiled at her and said, “Quite a place you have here.”

“Shh,” she said. I realized we weren’t alone. A train of thumb-sized bright green frogs lined the standpipe from the pool to the hose bib. Yellowjackets zoomed aggressively about. A skinny green snake slithered on the ground inches from Flora’s feet.

Unfazed by the yellowjackets and the snake, Flora sat calmly like a monk.

Orange and black butterflies hovered around the pool, sporadically flying about.

A pair of quail ran under the back fence.

Songbirds flitted in the field beyond, occasionally landing on the fence top.

“Wow. Quite a place,” I said quietly.

Flora narrowed her eyes.

“Too bad for you,” she said. “It’s not for sale.”

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

Call or text 530-680-0817.

IN RECOGNITION OF BRAIN INJURY AWARENESS MONTH

Managing & Preventing Brain Injury Join us for an educational interactive event focusing on brain health after brain injury.

Guest speakers include; Butte County Public Health Anjeanette Andrade and the Injury Prevention Team.

The Centre for Neuro Skills Chris Persel, Director of Behavior Programming & Clinical Services.

NO COST SAFETY GEAR to the first 50 guests

Learn tips on: Brain Injury Prevention Suicide Prevention Understanding Behavior after Brain Injury TO REGISTER Scan QR Code Below or call 530.342.3118

MARCH 27TH | 1:00 -4:30PM

ENLOE CONFERENCE CENTER 1528 ESPLANADE IN CHICO HOSTED BY: BRAIN INJURY COALITION IN COLLABORATION WITH: BUTTE COUNTY PUBLIC HEALTH, & PASSAGES CAREGIVER RESOURCE CENTER

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"Sherry has helped our family in selling four homes and has become part of our family. She is very knowledgeable, patient and understanding with all of our needs. She was ALWAYS available no matter the time or day. Sherry has been a saving grace to our family and we love her! She is the greatest Realtor and the person you want to have working with you in selling or purchasing a home!"

- Beverly Siemens

Call me today at (530) 514-4855

This is an exquisite estate-like property, on 4.69 acres with a year-round creek. The home itself is elegant yet a relaxing Mediterrean-style dwelling, with 4 custom-built bedrooms and 3 bathrooms, that are private and tranquil in every way. The year round creek (Rock Creek) is constantly flowing and gurgling up at you, full of frogs and turtles, down beneath the main house, just below the craftsman pergola. It is NOT in any flood zone, and homeowners insurance and lenders appreciate that fact. You might feel like you are in Upper Bidwell Park with the large Sycamore trees at the waters edge, with large boulders, very much like a postcard. Rock Creek divides the property where nearly 2+ acres are on the opposite side, to be retained exclusively for your private hiking and exploring (no one building there). The long driveway takes you through a wrought-iron custom gate. You enter the home through a rustic wood door, just outside the Terra Cotta courtyard. The solid wooden entry door welcomes you. Inside, you will find a relaxed style kitchen, with a gourmet Dacor 6-burner gas range, complete with double ovens. As you look, you see a pot filler, a GE 47 inch stainless steel refrigerator and the 2 Fisher Paykal Dishwasher drawers on both sides of the sink (1 is new) along with a cooking prep island and eating bar. The dining room displays the beautiful built-in cabinetry, pull out drawers and granite countertops. Nature lovers will enjoy the large deck for a family barbecue overlooks stunning sunsets, watching birds of all varieties, along with foxes, local turkeys, many fish in the creek, and a wide variety of summer butterflies. You can take the cover off this large in-ground gunite pool, and relax on the swim up stools and enjoy the Edson lights. This place is perfect for birthday parties, holidays, weddings, graduations, any celebrations. Call me today for your private viewing! Bed: 4.0 Bath: 3.0 SqFt: 2,959 Price: $998,500

Getaway retreat minutes from Chico! There's nothing like this magnificent mountain area ~45 minutes northeast of Chico, in the Sierra Cascade Mountains. The area offers year-round fishing, seasonal hunting, hiking, off-road vehicle trails, and great winter sports. Snowmobiling, and cross-country skiing are at your front door. When you enter this mountain home, you'll flip on the heater switch which works very efficiently while you light your free-standing wood stove. In the summertime there is no need for a/c w/ceiling fans in every room for cross ventilation. The custom kitchen with alder wood cabinets, pull out drawers, large kitchen island/granite offers an entertainers dream space for buffets, and gatherings. You'll feel like you're on vacation as every window offers views watching birds, and local wildlife. Too much to list!

Call today for a tour! Bed: 3.0 Bath: 2.0 SqFt: 1,260 Price: $499,000

How can I help you?

Call me today!

(530) 514-4855 30

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Custom Geodesic built home with a setting of a picturesque spot!!! Entering this amazing home you walk into soaring ceilings, lots of natural light, and views out every window! The open living area invites family/friends to hang around the fireplace with something to sip on and take in the beauty of the architecture both inside and outside with the large Redwood Trees and parklike setting. The kitchen is another great place where gatherings occur and you can hang out at this large eating bar, custom cabinetry, double oven, storage galore! Washer, dryer, refrigerator included. The primary bedroom/ bath is upstairs and you'll feel like you're on a vacation right here at home!

The bath has a really cool penny tile vanity, walk in closet. Downstairs is the 2nd bedroom with its own private balcony to watch the world go by. The adjacent bathroom has penny tile in its shower/tub combination! Full house Generator is included.

Bed: 2.0 Bath: 2.0 SqFt: 1,806 Price: $358,000

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

I would recommend Effie Khaki to absolutely anyone who is selling or purchasing a home. I have complete confidence and trust in Effie's professionalism, expertise, and commitment to all of her clients. I purchased and sold my first home with her over the last 5 years. Effie will always exceed your highest expectations.

-Jenifer Crawford

As you enter this beautiful home, nestled in a great established neighborhood, you will be greeted by warmth and a peaceful ambiance.

The darling kitchen is equipped with granite counter tops, a walk-in pantry, stove/oven, microwave oven, and tile flooring. The light and airy living room is spacious and designed for entertaining, while the family room boasts beautiful laminate flooring and offers a toe-warming gas fireplace. It's just perfect for snuggling up and watching the flames on those cold rainy days. Other features include dual-pane windows, newer HVAC, laminate and tile flooring throughout the house, and a small outdoor workshop. The yard is stunning with its lush green lawn, large private covered dining patio, raised garden, and numerous fruit trees. This is the perfect home for you to create memories of your own!

Bed: 3.0 Bath: 3.0 SqFt: 1,794 Price: $469,000

Located on a private cul-de-sac, this Paradise lot was once home to an elegant residence. Still remaining are the beautiful wrought iron entry gate with its brickwork, a pond, paved driveway etc. The property is connected to PID water and condition of septic is unknown to seller. Buyer to investigate.

Acres: 1.02 Price: $42,000

Own a piece of PARADISE!!! 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. While its heavenly, the price is down to Earth. Bring your blueprint and build!

Acres: 1.02 Price: $49,900

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in Kitchens and Beyond

Would you love having a cozy corner in your kitchen to enjoy a cup of tea or a space set aside to work on your crafts while you’re waiting for dinner? Maybe you’d like a family game area centered near a kitchen island.

Your kitchen remodel can become anything you’d like, and KP Designs is there to help you discover it.

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Keith Praizler first opened KP Designs in 2009, and since that time the company has continued to grow and evolve with the market. His career began with remodeling homes for a contractor while attending school for business management at Butte College. He smiles and says during that time, he realized how much he enjoyed

working with his hands and proceeded to work on obtaining his contractor’s license.

His early projects consisted mainly of exterior builds—windows, concrete, and framing. During that time, the market collapsed, and Keith realized people were still spending money on home improvement, but that it was focused on the interior of

WRITTEN BY SHELLY BRANDON PHOTOS BY DIANE NICOLE PHOTOGRAPHY

BREAKING THE MOLD

their homes, rather than the exterior. It was then that he decided they needed a shift in their business development and began focusing more on kitchen and bath remodels. He shares, “Even with the market's ups and downs, people still looked to their homes and wanted to modernize their kitchens and baths. That’s where our niche has been.”

KP Designs’ talent shines in their kitchen remodels. Keith believes a change to the kitchen ripples throughout the home,

shifting the atmosphere of the entire space.

It really is the heart of the home, that central location where everything happens.

It’s where connections are made. Keith believes that by changing the footprint of the kitchen, you “allow flow through the room for families to interact with the people cooking in the kitchen, relaxing in the living room and in the surrounding environments.”

Debbie Midling, KP’s sales and marketing design manager, says, “A lot of people feel like they’re held by the confines of what we’ve been dictated to about how we

function in our space. We need to break the mold. Our job is in helping them not be afraid and then creating a homespace that fits their family and their lifestyle.”

Debbie shares the story of one particular client who had her dining room set up as her craft space with a collapsible table for her workstation. The homeowner had been putting off upgrading her kitchen for years because she didn’t want to give up that craft area. When something is that important to the customer, they have to know it’s okay to design a space around the things they 35

value. KP Designs incorporated a craft area into the footprint and changed the entire layout so the art space fits seamlessly into the kitchen design. Debbie shares, “To see someone that excited—to know it’s ok and you can do that—and then to see how happy they are—it is just so rewarding. I love to not only give someone a new look for a room, but a new way for them to live.”

Not only do they offer homeowners a new homespace to thrive in, but they can also aid businesses in creating a workspace that fits their company. Starting from the ground up, they can help develop an image for the office space, from the colors to the marketing strategies best employed. Once the customer is happy with the concept, they can move on to both the hardscape through construction and then the other less tangible pieces through design and coaching. Debbie says, “Let’s sit down and take a look at the business; What type of clients are you looking to appeal to? What mood are you wanting to create? We want to help people grow their business.” There’s so much more that KP Designs can contribute to your home or business than just a beautiful remodel. They connect with their customers in order to learn what they want and need for their space and then put everything together to create the perfect finished product. Maybe you’re not sure what you need, or even where to start. KP Designs is your jumping-off point and will be there for you from start to finish.

Keith explains how satisfying it is to see the true change from old to new and witness how amazing that can be for the homeowner; to see how they live in that new space constructed from ideas previously only seen in their minds. There are some individuals who are gifted with the ability to look at a pile of pieces and parts and pull them together into one cohesive design. They’re able to separate each component from the group and visualize how it will fit and complement a finished product. Keith remembers even as a kid, his love of taking things 36

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apart and putting them back together. “I’ve just always been a builder. Some people are always builders, some are readers, some people are…” He trails off, “We all have our knack.” Whether it’s his motorcycles, his bikes, or his company, Keith is always tinkering, always working, always looking for ways to improve what he’s focused on. And so it follows that KP Designs is always becoming its best version, growing and changing to improve the community’s way of living.

Keith shares that it’s easy to become stagnant, doing the same things over and over again but, “Every so often you get this boom of creativity, and you don’t always know where it’s going to lead.”

That burst of inspiration led them to think outside the construction box. They’re working on ways to open up the world to kids by giving them more hands-on experience in building and design.

Keith and Debbie are looking forward to helping the youth of the community through their non-profit organization, Live By Design Foundation. Kids can learn about how to make a kitchen footprint, how to build a home, or how to design a webpage and really get the chance to explore other vocations. Debbie is working to organize a mini home show aimed at young people, with various booths set up to engage and encourage them to explore all the different aspects of design and construction. KP Designs hopes to incorporate its foundation in giving back to the community by involving youth in service projects throughout the area. Keith explains, “Whatever knack a child has, they already know what their skills are but may have never been told they can use those skills to be successful.” He wants to show kids that they can do what they dream, what they love, and succeed at it.

If you’ve considered having your kitchen remodeled, Keith says, “Don’t be afraid to pursue the dream. We can make the dream a reality.” Go and explore their website at www.kpdesignschico.com to see their extensive offerings to help you live by design. Located at 392 Connors Ct Suite B in Chico; 530-828-2769.

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The Mindful Art of Organization: A Path to Mental Well-Being In the chaos of our daily lives, amidst the constant juggling of responsibilities, commitments, and distractions, the significance of organization often takes a backseat. Yet, the truth remains—getting organized and, more crucially, staying organized, is not merely about arranging physical spaces; it's a profound practice that is the foundation of our mental wellbeing.

At its core, organization is a reflection of our inner state. A cluttered environment is akin to a cluttered mind—chaotic, overwhelming, and draining. A wellorganized space fosters clarity, efficiency, and a sense of calm. This relationship between external order and internal peace is fundamental to mental health.

Consider the simple act of decluttering.

It's not merely about discarding excess belongings, it's about releasing the mental burden attached to them. Each piece of clutter represents a fragment of our past—money spent, time invested, and energy exerted. The accumulation of clutter becomes a tangible, tactile manifestation of our attachments and distractions, weighing us down with unnecessary baggage.

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In adopting a mindful approach to organization, we recognize that every item brought into our home carries significance beyond its material form.

It's a conscious acknowledgment that our physical environment shapes our mental landscape. The best practice is not indiscriminate accumulation but thoughtful curation. Before acquiring anything new, we should pause and reflect: Does this item align with our values? Will it contribute positively to our lives? Is it worth the investment of our resources?

By cultivating mindfulness in our consumption habits, we not only streamline our physical spaces but also cultivate a deeper connection with our possessions. Each item becomes a deliberate choice, with intention and purpose. This mindful consumption extends beyond material belongings to encompass our time and energy—finite resources best allocated to pursuits that nourish our well-being.

The act of organizing itself is a meditative practice. In a world inundated with distractions, carving out moments to engage in the simple act of tidying

becomes an oasis of calm amidst the chaos. As we arrange and rearrange, we enter a state of flow—fully present and fully immersed in the task at hand. In this state of focused attention, our worries dissipate, and our minds find respite from the constant chatter.

The benefits of organization extend far beyond the physical realm. Studies have shown that a clutter-free environment correlates with reduced stress levels, enhanced productivity, and improved mental clarity. When our external surroundings are in harmony, our internal state follows suit, paving the way for greater emotional resilience and overall well-being.

The journey towards organization is not merely a quest for tidiness; it's a profound exploration of self-awareness and mindfulness. It's a testament to our commitment to cultivating a nurturing environment—both externally and internally.

Brad Wantt is the owner and chief organizing officer at In Flow Organization.

He can be reached by phone at (530) 591-2832.

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Backyard Solutions Health Wellness Center Backyard Solutions started in Paradise in 2010, and while their building was burned out in the Camp Fire, their vision endured. After a couple of moves, the father-andson partnership of Richard and Sean found their centrally located and convenient showroom on Mangrove Avenue. With a focus on health and wellness, Backyard Solutions sells Jacuzzi hot tubs and Infra-red saunas, as well as Hydropool swim spas.

If you’re looking to alleviate pain, pressure, anxiety, and the stress of day-to-day norms, there’s nothing more relaxing. They also offer Sunsetter awnings and shades, Green Mountain pellet grills, Blaze and Sommerset barbeques, outdoor kitchens, and so much more. In support of the buy local – shop Chico philosophy, installation, warranty claims, parts, accessories, and service are available on all of the products they sell. Looking to completely revamp your outdoor space? Co-owner and Cal Poly Architecture alum, Sean, can provide full custom backyard designs. Visit Backyard Solutions – their name says it all.

1215 Mangrove Avenue BackyardSolutions (530) 521-3112 www.BackyardSolutions-Chico.com Mon-Fri 10am-5pm | Saturday 10am-4pm

Klein's Cabinets and Countertops A licensed general contractor since January 2007, Scott Snyder quickly found his forté in kitchen and bathroom remodels. After a decade of renovating homes throughout Butte County, he began looking for a well-established business with a reputable name that he could make his own. He found just that in Klein’s Cabinets and Countertops which he purchased from his friends Roy and Patti Klein in July of 2017. Since then, he has kept their longstanding legacy alive, custom-building, staining, and finishing every cabinet by hand directly from raw products. He also continues to carry solid-surface countertops similar to Corian. Servicing both residential and commercial properties alike, Klein’s Cabinet and Countertops is a one-stop shop—they can design it, build it, and install it. Once a design is finalized, cabinet production takes 6-8 weeks, and they currently average one project completed per week. If you’re looking for cabinets or countertops, look no further!

KleinsCabinetAndCountertops www.kleinscabinetandcountertops.com

1974 Industrial Way, Oroville (530) 533-6310 Mon-Fri 7am-4pm

Urban Design is well known for being the local solar expert. What is not as well-known is that Urban Design offers troubleshooting and repair services for solar batteries, electrical, plumbing, and home standby generators.

Sean McCreary founded Urban Design in 2006 with a single-service truck. Since then Urban Design has grown into a busy hub of activity with a staff of more than 20 employees.

Urban Design has earned a five-star reputation on Google by consistently providing personalized service and quality work.

Fun Fact: Urban Design has earned the coveted position of representing Generac home standby generators at thirteen Lowes and three Costco Warehouses across the North State.

4742 Skyway, Paradise | (530) 345-0005 40

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Chris Floren Painting PRO-TIP: Most people wait to paint their homes in the summer, but painting the exterior of your home in colder temperatures will add years to the life of your paint job as it takes longer to cure! That tip comes straight from localpainter-extraordinaire Chris Floren, a wealth of knowledge when it comes to everything painting. It’s no surprise either, considering he’s been at it for well over 30 years. After painting in L.A., Chris moved to Chico and started his business in 1992. Working with several local real estate agents, he quickly made a name for himself as a dependable painting professional, and with that reputation, his business quickly grew. Chris and his phenomenal crew handle both custom residential and commercial paint jobs and are known for their timeliness, experience, and cleanliness. They clean up at the end of each day, help move furniture, and value customer service and satisfaction above everything else. Get ahead of painting season and book your paint job now while there's still availability by calling the number below! www.ChicoPainting.com | (530) 570-9498 | LIC#987785

Finds Design & Decor by Brian Austin The Austin family name is synonymous with fine home furnishings in Butte County—and for good reason—as generation after generation has not only proved their commitment to quality products but also exemplary customer service. Such is the case with Brian Austin, and his daughters Tia and Anna, who own and operate Finds Design & Decor in Chico. As 4th and 5th generation members of the Austin family dynasty, they are upholding a legacy that started in the early 1920s. However, unlike their predecessors, the three opted for a more boutique-oriented and eclectic style where you could discover finds you’re unlikely to see everywhere else. Their larger furniture lines like Flexsteel and Stressless offer nearlimitless opportunities for customization, while the store itself offers everything from wall art to lighting, accessories to rugs, and everything in between. If they don’t have what you need, chances are they can special order it. Whether it’s for one piece or an entire home, visit Finds Design—we’re sure you’ll find something to fall in love with.

FindsDesign @FindsDesignChico www.furniturechico.com

1341 Mangrove Avenue (530) 892-1905 Tues-Sat 10am-6pm

In Flow Organization Therapy and anxiety relief—we could all use it, and you’d be surprised to find it offered by someone in the home and garden space. Brad Wantt has been doing just that since making the leap from the tech industry in 2019. Using his brain in the way it works best, Brad decided to offer his talents for organization and decluttering to the Northstate.

Paired with a caring customer-centric attitude, his service has been helping people break the shackles of attachment to unnecessary items for the past five years. His efficient and quick method of helping people get rid of things they don’t need while donating them responsibly to local non-profits has not only been a benefit to everyone in the home, but to the community as well. His focus on minimalism helps families and couples enjoy sharing space without having to worry about coming home to a mess each day. Though it may seem like a luxury, his service is totally attainable. Make the call—you’ll be glad you did.

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infloworganization @infloworganization www.infloworganization.com

(530) 591-2832 8am-5pm 7 days/week

TEST THE WATER WITH

SCHEDULE YOUR FREE WATER TEST TO GET WATER YOU LOVE! The water quality in your home is vital, and our water testing analysis is the key to knowing exactly what’s in your water. We offer free in-home water testing by our trained and certified experts. If you knew what was in your water, it would make you say “Hey Culligan!”

530-343-5100

culliganofchico.com/free-water-test/

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Lighthouse Electric Company Meet the Wilsons, your wizards of wattage and founders of Lighthouse Electric Company. Based in Chico, they are a family-owned company dedicated to lighting up Butte County one property at a time! Tommy and his team possess a profound understanding of electrical systems and remarkable skill in diagnosing issues, implementing solutions, and ensuring the safety and functionality of every project. Whether it's a residential installation, commercial upgrade, or emergency repair, they approach each task with attention to detail, consistently delivering high-quality workmanship. Let Lighthouse illuminate your home with custom lighting, organized panel wiring, and speedy fan installations. From new builds to upgrades, they’ve got you covered! Lighting additions, electric car charger installs—you name it, they’ve got the power! From hot tub outlets to solar power hook-ups, trust them to brighten your day! Mention this article and receive $50 off any service. www.lighthouseelectriccompany.com Lic# 1069693

(530) 715-7971 Mon-Fri 8am-5pm

Speicher Team Real Estate Meet Doug Speicher, your go-to Realtor in Butte County. With a knack for humor and a vibrant social media presence, Doug's down-to-earth approach has made him a household name. Proudly hailing from Paradise, he's a fourth-generation local with an intimate understanding of the area's landscape, schools, and communities. Having built his business on word-of-mouth referrals, Doug now leads a team of real estate professionals. But his commitment extends beyond just selling homes; he's deeply invested in Paradise's recovery post-2018 Camp Fire. Partnering with the Rebuild Paradise Foundation, Doug has played a pivotal role in the town's resurgence. From celebrating milestones like 7,000 residents to the rebuilding of over 2,249 homes and the revival of 350 businesses, Doug's dedication shines through. If you're looking for more than just a Realtor, but a trusted advisor with a down-to-earth personality and unparalleled knowledge, Doug is your guy. Get ready to embark on your real estate journey with a touch of humor and a whole lot of expertise! speicherrealestate @speicherrealestate www.realspeicher.com

doug@realspeicher.com 530-680-7659 DRE #01978165

Harlan's Hauling & Fire Reduction Meet Derrick Harlan, the passionate owner and operator of Harlan’s Hauling & Fire Reduction. Raised in Paradise, Derrick embodies the spirit of resilience and community commitment. Dedicated to the Rebuilding Paradise movement, he infuses every aspect of his business with integrity, determination, and a genuine desire to serve. Specializing in property upkeep for both vacant lots and residences, Derrick offers a wide range of services tailored to meet his clients' needs. From yard care and roof cleaning to storm damage removal, construction site cleanups, and equipment hauling, he handles it all with care and precision. With a heart for his community, Derrick ensures his services are honest and affordable, providing reliable support to residents throughout Butte County.

Derrick is a pleasure to work with, making him the go-to choice for all your hauling and handyman needs.

Call (530) 588-1613 to schedule service 44

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Local Art Gifts Framing Custom framing

sale

april

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Greene Makers Cabinetry Thaddeus Greene has been in woodworking for over 25 years. He had the pleasure of working alongside his father, a celebrated finish contractor in Chico, as he began his journey in the field. Looking to explore his craft, he spent 4.5 years in Las Vegas, where he could be far more adventurous in style. From there, work brought him to Hawaii for another 4.5 years where he worked on luxury homes. He returned to Chico and, soon after, formed his own business in 2007. He’s known for his keen eye for design and exotic style influences. “I like the unusual,” he says. “I can take unique inspiration boards knowing that I can recreate them for clients.” Call Thaddeus if you’re looking to add more expression to your home.

Greene Makers Cabinetry @greenemakers

5385 Clark Rd suite 2E, Paradise (530) 864-7928

All Things Trees All Things Trees was formed in 2016 by James and Amanda Clark. Their family-owned and operated company focuses on The Ridge but is glad to assist residents throughout Butte County. James is an ISA-certified arborist, and he and his wife are licensed and bonded tree service contractors. James is a hazard tree expert with tremendous experience with the area's most dangerous and fragile timber while remaining an advocate for saving as many trees as possible. Still, they are oftentimes much less expensive due to their low overhead. Working closely with insurance companies, they welcome concerned homeowners to request a hazard report that provides information about neighboring trees to assist insurance claims where the other party may be negligent. For an honest, no-hassle quote above their always-free estimates, call All Things Trees. allthingstreesparadise www.allthingstreesparadise.com

(530) 872-7272 24 hours/day, 7 days/week

Elevate Health & Performance As a former firefighter and father of two in Paradise, Connor Rowley's experience in the exercise domain over the last decade has been primarily focused on rehabilitation, functional fitness, and overall well-being in life. He is committed to supporting people by incorporating fitness and adopting healthy habits to create a lasting, balanced way of life. Elevate fitness caters to all people and walks of life whether it be achieving your fitness goals or building the stamina necessary to handle the rigors of day-to-day work and the functional movement necessary to recover properly. Stop by and see how you can elevate your health! www.Elevatehealthperformance.com (209) 642-9448 46

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797 Elliott Rd Unit k, Paradise Mon-Fri 5am-6pm | Sat 9-10am

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Picadillo March is here, and we're as ready for some warm weather as you are! In this month of transition, we tend to favor recipes that can land on either side of the fence, and this picadillo recipe is no exception. Whether warm or cold outside, this hearty dish is sure to deliver smiles to everyone at your dinner table.

Ingredients - 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil - 1 lb ground beef, 80/20 - 1 small yellow onion, diced - 4 garlic cloves, roughly chopped - 1 green bell pepper, cored and finely chopped - 1 large carrot, grated - 1 tsp sea salt - 2 tsp chili powder - 1 tsp dried oregano - 2 tsp cumin - 1/2 tsp cinnamon - 2 tbsp tomato paste - 2 cups chicken stock - 1 large russet potato, peeled and 1/2 inch diced

Directions 1. Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium high heat and cook the beef with the garlic, bell pepper, onions, and carrots until meat is browned, approximately 8 minutes.

2. Add in the salt, oregano, cumin, chili powder, cinnamon, and tomato paste. Mix for 30 seconds until incorporated.

3. Add in the chicken stock and potatoes, then mix to combine.

Turn the heat up to high and bring contents of the pan to a simmer. Reduce heat to medium-low and cook until the potatoes are tender and the mixture has completely thickened, approximately 20 minutes.

4. Serve as its own dish or level it up with cooked rice or warmed tortillas, fresh cilantro, and peppers if you want extra heat.

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DoMoe Pool Service After 10 years of industry experience, Mike DoMoe ventured out on his own to establish DoMoe Pool Service in November 2021, quickly growing from a hometown business to service all of Butte County. Specializing in service and equipment renovation, including plumbing and electrical, they also offer pool inspections for homes resold to new buyers. Most new clients only wait 48 hours for their first visit and can expect regular service within a week from that. What sets them apart is their level of communication, whether answering inquiries promptly or explaining the problem and solution in real terms for each particular job. Every customer can access before and after explanations and photos of the work via their app. Looking for a company that lets clients know they are a priority while also being deeply rooted in its community?

Look no further than DoMoe Pool Service.

DoMoePoolService www.domoepoolservice.com

2309 Veatch Street, Oroville (530) 570-6272 Mon-Fri 8am-5pm

Northstate Builders Nick Pello, co-founder of North State Builders, is a master craftsman dedicated to quality and innovation. With expertise in rough framing, tiling, and carpentry, Nick's precision and attention to detail have earned him a stellar reputation in Butte County. Nick launched North State Builders in October 2022 with Clifford Glass, driven by their shared vision for community revitalization and bolstered by a strong friendship. Beyond work, Nick values family time, often traveling with his wife and two soccer-loving children, along with his one six-month-old hopeful. As a veteran-owned company, North State Builders delivers excellence in every project, reflecting Nick's unwavering dedication to craftsmanship and client satisfaction.

5400 Clark Rd, Unit A, Paradise (530) 321-1386 Mon-Fri 5am-5pm

Northstate Builders Clifford Glass, co-founder of North State Builders, grew up in Paradise. Under Ron Hawkins' guidance, Clifford honed his skills, contributing to Ron's projects like Aaron Rodgers's parents' home. Specializing in carpentry, stucco, and sheetrock, he's known for excellence and reliability. As owner of Clifford Construction, he brings dedication and integrity to every project, ensuring quality craftsmanship and client satisfaction. Beyond construction, Clifford is a devoted family man, finding joy in dirt biking, spending time with his wife and five children, and sharing their passion for travel. Clients gravitate towards Clifford for his expertise and unwavering work ethic, where integrity and diligence are non-negotiable. With Clifford and Nick working together, clients can trust their vision will be brought to life with precision, care, and local pride.

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5400 Clark Rd, Unit A, Paradise (530) 520-1427 Mon-Fri 5am-5pm

CRUISING THROUGH CAREGIVING HOW TO REDUCE THE STRESS OF CARING FOR A LOVED ONE

On a scale of 0-100 is your stress level 150?

This educational event will help family caregivers better understand the consequences of unmanaged stressors involved in caregiving. Learn strategies, from expert and author, Jennifer L. FitzPatrick, MSW, LCSW-C, on how to minimize, manage and prevent the stress of caregiving following the CRUISE methods based on her book **Cruising Through Caregiving: Reducing the Stress of Caring for Your Loved One. In addition, a special discussion on redefining roles and relationships in families will be part of this program.

m-12pm a 0 1 | 4 2 0 2 April 16, Club y r t n u o C k Butte Cree hico C e v i r D s e t 175 Esta E book RE

d receive F

r & atten 0 to registe

**First 3

REGISTER HERE: Scan QR Code below or email mcrc@csuchico.edu

530.898.5925

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Kai Music and Arts is on the move Among the many attributes of Kai Music and Arts, perhaps the biggest is the organization’s commitment to the Chico community. Kai Music provides music and art instruction, teaches students the ins and outs of the music business, and even has a production studio to record music.

However, the next step for Kai is to bring bigger music acts to Chico from L.A. and the Bay Area.

Acknowledging all Kai Music does for Chico, the Chico Chamber of Commerce honored them with the 2023 New Business of the Year Award. This is quite the accomplishment for Kai and its directors, Gary Smith and Gypsy Andrews.

“We want to bring some big acts to the Chico area,” he said. “We’ve got some soon-to-be big names lined up to come up and perform in May, and we’ve teamed up with big producers from L.A. and Oakland.” Not only will concertgoers benefit from Kai’s moves, but local nonprofit charities will too. “We want to be able to support local organizations with donations from the proceeds of our performances,” said Smith.

The big music production company from 52

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L.A. is The 1500 Sound Academy, located in Inglewood. Founded by Grammy Award winners James Fauntleroy and Larrance Dopson, 1500 is the large-scale model of Kai Music and Arts that teaches all things music. This includes music production, recording, performance, and all music and industry fundamentals. They offer oncampus and online courses where people earn certificates when they graduate.

“Rance and James make you feel like you’re among family when they are around, and that, I believe, is what makes them so instrumental in the success of so many artists,” said Gary.

Another commitment of 1500 and Kai is bettering the lives of the less fortunate by donating money from performances.

Locally, Kai is working on teaming up with Rolling Hills Casino and the new Mechoopda Casino. “The plan is to give a portion of revenue from performances to local non-profit organizations. We’ve already been doing that on a smaller scale with Chico venues,” said Gary. Kai has sponsored events at Mulberry Station Brewing Company, Lake Concow, and the Naked Lounge where musicians from Kai Music have performed.

WRITTEN BY TIM MILHORN

The biggest news from Kai Music and Arts is the acts who will be coming to Chico to perform in May. Once again, proceeds from the performances will benefit local organizations. THIRDPARTY is a pop and hip-hop trio based in L.A. The members are Tsunami, Nalae, and AYN. They met at 1500 Sound Academy and discovered they had a unique chemistry.

THIRDPARTY’s members blend their sounds to create powerful vocals, lyrical stories, and a special marriage of rap and hip-hop.

Breyan Bliss is originally from Sacramento but is making waves in the L.A. music scene. He’s a dynamic force who combines R&B with hip-hop and produces introspective and thoughtful lyrics. He recently performed at a sold-out Ace of Spades agenda when he opened up for “The King of R&B,” Jaquees.

Capri is a nineteen-year-old Canadian singer and songwriter based in L.A. and has over 1.1 million followers. Her most recent release, “Arcade,’ hit #17 on the Billboard Chart and #2 on the iTunes Chart. Capri holds the Guinness World Record for singing the national anthem of 80 countries in their country and their language. She raised money for

abandoned children and orphanages worldwide and is excited to be a part of the Kai Music family.

Reeve Carney (Snow Falling on Cedars, Spiderman Turn off the Dark, Orpheus in Hadestown, and more), Zane Carney (described as a “massive guitar player”

by Thundercat, discography includes playing with Thundercat; John Mayer and John Davers; and part of the duo, EVAN + ZANE with Evan Rachel Wood) and Paris Carney (backup vocals for Jonas Brothers 2012 tour, O’Neill Hudson Sings, just all around amazing vocalist) are looking to reunite and debut their amazing talents in Chico in partnership with Kai Music and Arts. Gary has known Reeve and Zane for about 16 years, when they first met at his former club in Monterey, California.

They became so close that Gary named his last child after the amazing guitarist, Zane Carney. Gary and Zane, along with Gypsy Andrews, Duet’s family Coot and Kat Wyman and Jenny Lowry, are also part of a non-profit organization called duetsacrossamerica.org to find a cure for the rare brain disease B-Pan. More is on tap for Kai, including working with CSU Chico’s Laxson Auditorium and the Sierra Nevada Big Room. They

have teamed up with CSU Professor Paul Young to teach how the music industry works, and there are Chico State interns who are learning at Kai Music and Arts.

A special collaboration with Kai is 1980s and 90s hip hop and rap music producer and manager Chaz Hayes of Oakland.

“Chaz has that same love of making the world a better place through music, and that’s what drew me to him,” said Gary. Mr. Hayes' daughter attends Butte College and is currently employed at Kai Music and Arts as an instructor, and they couldn’t be happier.

Kai Music and Arts states, “We don’t just teach music lessons to our students, we show them how to use their skills to make the world a better place.” To know a child can learn a song and then play that song at an event to raise money for a non-profit organization is amazing. The student learns at an early age that their music can make a difference.

Be on the lookout for more information on Kai Music and Arts by going to their site www.kaimusicandarts.com. Big things are coming to Chico, and Kai Music is definitely on the move.

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They're magically delicious!

As you know, the Irish are well-known for eating potatoes. Well, except for during that famine thing. Everyone knows you can’t have corned beef and cabbage without throwing a few potatoes into the pot. Important note: corned beef and cabbage is NOT a native Irish dish.

It is an Irish American invention due to the cheaper cut of beef used in making corned beef. And speaking of cheap, that’s one of the main attractions of potatoes. Plus, they are nutrient-dense and versatile. You can bake them, boil 54

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them, fry them, and add them to hundreds of recipes. My favorite is to bake them in an oven. More on that later.

Potatoes originated in South America, specifically Bolivia and Peru. researchers believe people started cultivating them between 8,000 and 5,000 BCE. It took almost ten centuries for them to make their way to Europe; however, they did not become popular until the 19th century in North America.

Another plus about potatoes is how long they last if properly stored, which can be up to five months. This means you need a cool, dark room like a cellar or kitchen pantry, or the last resort, the kitchen cupboard. Do not store them in the refrigerator! Weird things start to happen, and they can rot or start to sprout. If you store them in a closed plastic bag they can turn green. This is due to chlorophyll and eating them can make you sick.

On the happy side, potatoes have many benefits, such as Vitamin C, Vitamin B-6,

potassium, folate, and niacin…wow. This is boring. Let’s talk about potato chips! No one is sure who invented potato chips, and there are many stories. But I haven’t met anyone who doesn’t like them.

Some people don't eat them for health reasons—fat content, carbs, etc. There are 5,000 varieties of potatoes. I’d list them here, but you know. A few you may never have heard of are King Edward, Nadine, Dutch Cream, and Royal Blue.

One of the most popular is the Russet potato. These are famous for baking.

Speaking of, here’s my famous Tim’s Best Baked Potatoes recipe. Use Idaho or Russet potatoes and preheat the oven to 400 degrees. Wash the potatoes, dry them, then massage them with good olive oil. Pierce them with a fork, salt and pepper the skins, then place them in a cast iron pan. Bake for 50 minutes to one hour. You’re looking for that nice baked bottom skin. Dress with butter or whatever you like when done. Bon appétit!

WRITTEN BY TIM MILHORN

This is an article about potatoes.

However, since this is March, boyo, and the month of shamrocks and leprechauns, we feel we must begin with a familyfriendly Irish joke: My Irish grandmother makes the best bean soup. I recall her ladling it into the bowl with her kind smile and counting every bean. She always ended with 239 beans. “Grandma, why does each bowl have to have 239 beans,” I asked. Her reply? “Because if it had one more, it would be too farty.” Knee slapper!

Thigh thumper!

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Designing a room in 8 simple steps Step 1. Think About How a Room Will Function | The first question to ask yourself is who will be using the room.

Let’s take a living or family room for example. Will this space be more of a quiet or formal space, or will this be a family room designed for lounging or entertainment? Design your space so it’s functional for the way you live now, rather than how you want to live. If you have kids or pets, opt for durable materials like performance fabrics and furniture pieces without sharp edges.

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measure doorways as you don’t want to find out the sofa you just ordered won’t be able to get into the home.

Step 4. Declutter | If you are redecorating versus remodeling, start by getting rid of items you don’t use or don’t want to incorporate into your new space. Think about how you can build on the existing room’s finishes and style.

Step 2. Set the Mood & Seek Inspiration | Often, we get so lost in how we want a space to look that we forget to ask ourselves how we want a space to feel.

Focusing on mood rather than trend will help you to create a space that feels like you and is unique. Creating a mood board can be helpful.

Step 5. Decide on a Color Palette | Deciding your color palette early on in your planning process will help you create more of a cohesive look. I always recommend taking finishes or fabrics home. You may find a fabric looks completely different in your home than it did in the showroom. Also, look at finishes or fabrics in different lights throughout the day as colors look different in the morning light versus the evening light.

Step 3. Map It Out | Measure your room and sketch out a floor plan on paper to help figure out what size of furniture will fit best in the space. One thing I find extremely helpful is to map out furniture placement with painter’s tape to help get a better sense of things. Also, be sure to

Step 6. Choose a Focal Point and Start with Anchor Pieces | Identify the room’s focal point such as a beautiful view, fireplace, or television to help figure out furniture placement. From there, start with your anchor or main piece. Usually, this will face the room’s focal point. Also,

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think about the traffic flow of the room.

Generally, a good rule of thumb is to direct traffic around a seating area rather than through it.

Step 7. Aim for Contrast & Variety | Varying the size of furniture pieces throughout the room allows our eyes to move up and down in the space. Also, think about using different shapes. If your room and furniture pieces are more linear, mix in pieces with rounded edges.

Step 8. Choose Secondary Pieces and Accessorize | Once you’ve picked out your main pieces, you can build from there with complementary pieces. Be sure to mix in different shapes and textures to add interest. One thing I cannot stress enough is to accessorize! This doesn’t mean you have to add clutter, but a room will feel unfinished without the final layer.

This is the time to get even more creative and add your personal touch.

Tia Austin is a resident design expert at Finds Design & Decor at 1341 Mangrove Ave. in Chico. If you're looking for design inspiration, you're sure to find exactly what you need there.

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The lego master One of the best gifts seven-year-old Hudson Haltom received last year was a LEGO Advent calendar where he got to build a new figure every day for 30 days.

If he could have, Hudson would have started on Day One and gone right on through. However, he stuck to the rules and built other LEGOs when he returned from school. Hudson loves LEGOs.

WRITTEN BY TIM MILHORN

He has built race cars, a dump truck, a snow plow, dinosaurs, and more. “I just go crazy and build whatever my mind wants to build,” Hudson said. His younger brother, Carter, also loves LEGOs and they like building new figures together.

Hudson is in first grade at McManus Elementary School. Before that, he attended Happy Acres Forest School, a mostly out-of-doors school in Bidwell Park. He said, “My school didn’t have a house.” This nature-oriented school provided Hudson with the opportunity to learn about many facets of nature. Carter goes there now, and he said during the recent cold spell, “I want a school with walls.” However, neither boy would trade the experience for a traditional preschool.

At McManus, Hudson enjoys working on his computer in the many i-Ready programs and in Lexia, which emphasizes

reading and language skills. On the playground, he enjoys soccer and football. He plans on joining organized baseball this spring. He’s really into the Dogman series of books usually read by fourth graders, and he recently received the “Super Star Reader Award” at school. His mom, Amanda, a first-grade teacher at Capay School, said, “Hudson really enjoys reading, and we definitely encourage him.” As for the future, Hudson says he wants to be a firefighter and fly helicopters. His dad, Ezra, works for CalFire at the helicopter unit in Beiber.

Rounding out the family is their black lab mix, Juniper, named after Juniper Lake in Lassen County. They also have a cat, Kitten, so named because Ezra didn’t want to give her a name—he didn’t want to become attached. Oops.

One of Hudson’s favorite experiences was attending the Challenger Soccer Camp In Chico last summer, run by players from England. He likes going to Sierra Nevada Restaurant and ordering the fish and chips, and he definitely enjoys the big family dinners held on Mondays at his grandparents’ house.

“It's a lot of fun going there because the food is great and there’s always a lot of people,” said Hudson.

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Considering a Backyard Makeover?

As spring approaches every year, most homeowners begin to think about warmer weather and spending more time outdoors. Selecting and planting a few flowers and vegetables can return months of enjoyment, but if you are considering large improvements to your backyard, you need a plan. I don’t mean just having an idea of what you want, but rather a systematic plan that starts with the basics—like water lines (specifically where, how many, size, and tying into an existing source). This applies to electrical needs, lighting, gas lines, and drainage as well. The key to achieving the desired results is 90% planning and 10% execution.

One major variable that will affect your project is the size of the backyard and what you want in it. Scaling the size and quantity of your improvements to the area available to work with can be critical, but with proper planning, you would be surprised by what you can do even in a small space. When you combine planning with good aesthetics, you can achieve the oasis you desire in your backyard.

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Whether you are purchasing a newly built home or upgrading an existing one, you need a wish list. An effective way to start is by making a scrapbook from ideas and pictures in magazines and photos you took of the features you want in your backyard—like a patio, a swimming pool, pond, hot tub, outdoor kitchen, pergola, awnings, walkways, a greenhouse, or tool shed. Pinterest is another great option here. You get the idea—everything you would like if you could have it all. Take the time to consider your lifestyle as a critical aspect of how you plan to use and enjoy the space to its fullest.

A realistic budget is a must! How much are you willing to spend to get the results you desire? Do you plan to do it all at once or spread the project out over a few years? If you are planning to spread it out over time, prioritize what improvements you want first. Then ask yourself whether or not you need any financing?

Not everyone has the time or energy to do all the work themselves. You need to determine what part of the work you are willing and able to physically do and

what part will require a professional to complete. Once you have determined the scope of your project and verified that it will all work in the available area, decide when you want to break ground for the project. Look for a designer who does plans for various-sized backyard projects and has a working knowledge of the features you want. Do not hesitate to ask how much they charge for their design work. Depending on how extensive the project is, the design can be as simple and inexpensive as a general line drawing and outline of work, or as complex as a full architectural set of plans. Allow enough time to get the design completed, collect any bids for the various aspects of the project, and secure building permits, if required. It may seem like a lot of work, but the enjoyment and serenity will be well worth the effort.

Richard Eiselt is the co-owner of Backyard Solutions in Chico, an authority in all things outdoors. Visit the store at 1215 Mangrove Avenue, Ste. A in Chico or call (530) 521-3112 to set up an appointment!

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 Butte Humane Society at (530) 343-7917.

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

benny

1 1/2 years neutered male

HUEY

Malia

2 years spayed female

Kit

8 months neutered male

8 months neutered male

years 4 years miss jane 4spayed female buttercup spayed female 61

of online coaching depends largely on the coach's ability to establish a strong connection with their clients, despite the physical distance. Effective online coaches utilize technology to provide personalized support, accountability, and education, ensuring that their clients stay motivated and on track toward their wellness objectives.

Furthermore, fitness coaching plays a crucial role in guiding individuals towards physical well-being. A skilled fitness coach possesses in-depth knowledge of exercise science, nutrition, and behavioral psychology. They design tailored workout regimens, offer nutritional guidance, and provide the necessary motivation to help individuals achieve their fitness goals, whether it's weight loss, muscle gain, or overall improved physical performance.

The Importance of a Quality Coach In today's fast-paced world, the pursuit of health and wellness has become increasingly vital. As a result, the demand for qualified coaches to guide individuals on their journey towards a healthier lifestyle has surged. However, not all coaches are created equal. Whether it's life and health coaching, online coaching, or fitness training, the effectiveness of a coach can significantly impact the success of their clients. Quality coaching in health and wellness from experienced individuals can make a difference in helping people achieve their desired state of well-being. Let’s dive into the how and why.

First and foremost, it's essential to recognize that not all coaches possess the same level of expertise, experience, and dedication. While some may have obtained certifications through reputable programs and have hands-on experience, others may lack the depth of knowledge and practical understanding necessary to truly impact their clients positively.

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Therefore, it's crucial for individuals seeking coaching services to thoroughly research and select a coach who can provide the guidance and support they need to reach their health and wellness goals.

Life and health coaching focuses on empowering individuals to make meaningful and sustainable changes in various aspects of their lives, including physical health, mental well-being, relationships, and careers. A proficient life and health coach understands the complexities of human behavior, motivation, and the challenges individuals face when striving for a balanced and fulfilling life. They leverage their expertise to create personalized strategies that align with their clients' aspirations, taking into account their unique circumstances and preferences.

Online coaching has gained popularity in recent years due to its accessibility and convenience. However, the effectiveness

What sets experienced individuals apart as coaches in the realm of health and wellness is their unique insight gained from creating and running successful companies and living a healthy, vibrant life. Their hands-on experience equips them with a profound understanding of the challenges individuals face when striving for balance amidst a hectic lifestyle. Such coaches can offer practical strategies for integrating healthy habits into busy schedules, managing stress, and fostering a mindset conducive to sustained well-being.

The significance of quality coaching in health and wellness cannot be overstated. Whether it's life and health coaching, online coaching, or fitness training, the impact of a proficient coach can be transformative. As individuals with a wealth of hands-on experience in creating and running companies and leading healthy, vibrant lives, we are uniquely positioned to guide and support others on their journey toward optimal health and wellness. By recognizing the value of quality coaching and seeking out experienced professionals, individuals can significantly enhance their prospects of achieving lasting well-being and vitality.

Marc Wesley is helping Chico reach peak health and wellness as the co-owner of Lions Den Fitness & Health and Nutrishop Chico. Visit them and see what they can do to help you at 1026 Skyway in Chico.

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