Upgraded Living Magazine - December 2012 Issue

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Now accepting reservations for the 2012 holiday season.

198 East 2nd St. Downtown Chico

530.809.2304

G T G O C T H S

GIVE THE GIFT OF COOL THIS HOLIDAY SEASON. RidgeEyeCare.com 14137 Lakeridge Court . Magalia . (530) 873-2020 7056 Skyway . Paradise . (530) 877-2250

NorthValleyEyeCare.com 114 Mission Ranch Blvd. Suite 50 . Chico . (530) 891-1900 1056 Washington St. . Red Blu . (530) 529-1750

THE WAIT IS FINALLY OVER The new is now LIVE! Visit us at www.UpgradedLiving.com and discover the the best in food, fashion, events, business profiles, and more.

Plus, get access to past issues and participate in contests throughout the month!

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PRESENTS

Our Staff’s Holiday Traditions Introduction by Briana Lindstrom From style to music to meals, winter tends to be the most traditional season of all. Holiday memories are sprinkled with cameos by family members accompanied by a soundtrack of Christmas classics and held close with a feeling of warmth and nostalgia. “Tradition” strikes a unique chord within each of us and through all the hustle, bustle, consumerism and stress, we would like to take a moment to share some of our traditions with you. We hope you’ll join us by reminiscing with your family and pausing to appreciate the memories you continue to build with your loved ones this holiday season.

Briana Lindstrom

My sisters are my true holiday tradition.

Over the years, our family has changed shape, houses have been divided, members have been added, traditions have been altered, and the time of year that was simple and magical as a child has become somewhat complicated and bittersweet. But I absolutely still love the holidays, believe in the magic, and have room in my heart for new traditions. Throughout my life, my most solid tradition and constant source of love, humor and honesty has been my sisters. When it comes to the holidays, I love that wherever we find ourselves on Christmas Eve, my sisters and I will be huddled into a room together late at night doing last-minute gift wrapping, worrying only about ribbon curls and tape and laughing uncontrollably.

Erin Wenham

Decorating the Christmas tree has always been a big deal in my family. I remember being so excited as a kid to get out the box of ornaments and decide where they should go on the tree (even though my mom would always rearrange them later). Every Christmas for as long as I can remember, my mom has given my sister and me each a new ornament so that one day we'll each have collections for our own homes.

Alyssa Worley

My mother ties the apron tightly around her waist and pulls her hair back in an elastic.

This means it is time for us to begin the incredibly messy, but rewarding, baking of Greek Cookies. The feel of pushing my palms into the dough and pressing the moon & star shaped cutters in are engraved memories.

With a recipe passed down from generations, these crumbly, powder sugar cookies are our family’s holiday staple. Yum!

Aveed Khaki

Sleep. It isn’t something most of us see enough of these days, and I’ll gladly take it whenever I can get it. Luckily, in a family full of busy bees, the holiday season is a time of required rest and relaxation for everyone.

Gifts, breakfast, and sometimes even lunch (if I’m so lucky) play second fiddle to sleep during the holidays. The tradition of slowing down for a few days at the end of the year is a tradition I could not live without, and this year I’ve blocked out the better portion of a week for it.

Jason Corona

Our family Christmas is symbolic through traditions of the generation past and sure to carry on to our children. Each year, for the past eight years, we carefully select and cut our tree from Mountain View Christmas Tree Farm in Paradise and decorate it with the combination of our family’s handed down or gifted ornaments. Our kids help by decorating with the ornaments they receive as heirlooms each year, each with a name and the year they received it as gift. On Christmas morning we wake early and gather at our stockings to discover which new ornament each have received, while holiday renditions of John Denver and the Muppets, upbeat instrumentals on Merry Axemas, or classics

by Bing Crosby set the mood.

Amber Abney

In a perfect world, we would all love the same sights, the same sounds and the same flavors, but this my friend, is reality. And I don't know about you, but in my house the closest thing to the above is the chaos surrounding devising a holiday meal, preparing it and then of course, figuring out the most convenient time to consume it...sounds like fun, right?

About 5 years ago, when the boys were old enough to safely venture into the kitchen, we embraced an idea. We wanted to begin to foster a knowledge of the kitchen in the boys, after all, that would make them 'way cooler' when it came to the girls that would soon be calling. I agree, it was originally a marketing ploy, but it has grown into something amazing!

To begin, we sit down, or casually lounge across a couch and build our holiday meal.

The rule is if you want it, you have to make it. Now, you must prepare for a varying level of responses. For instance, 14 year-old Cody jumps in the pool with both feet! He has graced us with bacon-wrapped venison medallions, chicken-fried venison, as well as killer blackberry cobbler for dessert. Justin who is 15 has a different approach, and he thinks that cooking artichokes every year is, well, genius! Now I am not suggesting that the food pyramid will be well represented, but there is one thing I know for certain, there will be bacon!

Michelle Camy

My holiday traditions are rather ordinary.

What my family really looks forward to is our white elephant gift exchange. The items that are presented can be quite unusual. In recent years there has been a stool with fake human legs, a box of wigs, a lamp with a two foot tall cowboy, a jar of quail eggs, and I will never forget the box of kittens. You never know what you might end up with.

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Events

The Almond Bowl Run

Photography by Michelle Camy November 4th marked the 38th Annual Almond Bowl Run and as in classic Almond Bowl Run fashion, it drew quite the crowd this year.

Friends and familiar faces from across Butte County joined together to participate in the 5k, marathon, and half marathon hosted by the Chico Running Club. A significant amount of the race entry fees directly contributed to local high school running programs and the support of local student athletes. From the bright smiles on the faces of those in attendance, it was easy to see that the race was a complete success, and we would like to extend a giant “Thank you� to everyone who participated!

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UPGRADED LIVING | DECEMBER 2012 | UPGRADEDLIVING.COM

text by Aveed Khaki

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Business

A Master of Community

(above) Master Azad with his staff and students. (below) Master Azad and his class practice at the dojo.

by Alyssa Worley

FARSHAD AZAD; OWNER AND GRANDMASTER of Azad’s Martial Arts is an incredible man. Kids in white gis tied with various colored belts flock around him as he walks in the door. This man radiates energy and warmth. Crowned Chico’s Best Do-Gooder by the Chico ER this year, the kids aren’t the only ones who recognize that Farshad is something special. Not only a Martial Arts teacher of thousands of students ranging in age, Farshad Azad is also a philanthropist. Many in our community know him as the brain and brawn of various events in Chico that benefit families in need.

The 21st Annual Basket Brigade is being hosted at Azad’s Martial Arts Studio on 4th and Walnut. They clear the squishy mats currently covering the floor to make room for the bounty of volunteers that will come to fill “baskets” or frying tins, for local

families who may need a little extra help in this hard economic time. These tins are filled with an entire Thanksgiving meal; that includes a frozen turkey, pies, buns, green beans, corn, stuffing, and more! Sounds like the ideal holiday meal to us!

Hundreds of volunteers come and line up in an assembly line to put these baskets together; while drivers are waiting with engines ready to deliver the baskets after they are assembled. In the past 20 years, this Basket Brigade has helped over 30,000 people. This doesn’t include the volunteers who have been touched by the families’ stories!

Farshad has made volunteering for this event a family tradition for many every year. Not only is it fun but also rewarding. Kids get to see how important it is to help others in their community; and bonus-- Farshad Azad puts on a dinner after for all the volunteers with live music! What a

great way to celebrate the spirit of the holiday with family and friends.

The practice of martial arts is meant to bring balance and a sense of center towards dealing with life’s difficulties. Azad told us that in his studio, his students are taught through the use of martial arts how to become better people, so that they then can pay it forward to their community. What a wonderful philosophy to develop in students of all ages. It is amazing to see how the leadership of one man can inspire so many others!

To donate or volunteer for the Basket Brigade on November 20th (always the Tuesday before Thanksgiving) email Farshad Azad at master@azadsmartialarts.com. We can’t wait to be there ourselves and enjoy the pleasure of giving a hand-up to those we love in our wonderful Chico community. See you there!

Azad’s Martial Arts Family Center | 313 Walnut St. #150, Chico, CA | (530) 892-2923 18

UPGRADED LIVING | DECEMBER 2012 | UPGRADEDLIVING.COM

photographs by Erin Wenham

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SEPTEMBER 29 –DECEMBER 30 625 ESPLANADE ~ CHICO ~ NEAR DOWNTOWN HOURS: WEDNESDAY TO SUNDAY: NOON– 5 PM ADMISSION: MEMBERS – FREE ADULT – $6.00 CHILD OR STUDENT – $3.00 www.gatewayscience.org

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Events

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UPGRADED LIVING | DECEMBER 2012 | UPGRADEDLIVING.COM

The Almond Bowl Photography by Michelle Camy

Whether you’re an alum of Chico High or Pleasant Valley, the start of fall is sure to bring back memories of rampant rivalry, high school hijinx and, if you are lucky, the sweet taste of victory. The Almond Bowl, a name that seems to bring about deeply-seated and often repressed emotions, has been breaking hearts and providing bragging rights to athletes and their respective schools since 1971. Now in its 40th season, it seems the rivalry is stronger than ever, but regardless of who won and who lost, seeing so many familiar faces supporting our local school sports was enough to wipe away any bias, even if only for the briefest (and we stress: briefest) of moments. We were glad to see all of you out there and look forward to another great game at Almond Bowl LXI next year!

Events

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Events

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UPGRADED LIVING | DECEMBER 2012 | UPGRADEDLIVING.COM

text on previous page by Aveed Khaki

Events

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Business

Bird In Hand

by Amber Abney

I THINK OF BOB MALOWNEY AS A NINJA. It perfectly describes him as he moves quietly around town as a purveyor of fun. He makes little noise in the effort to make life more fun for everyone.

In 1971, when war protesters took to the streets and helicopters filled the air above cities, Bob and his wife Barbara left San Diego to find a new place to call home. They started their first business here in Chico in January of 1971. The Malowneys opened Black Mountain Media later known as Media Screen Print which did screen printing and business promotions. After years of creating successful promotions for other businesses, they created Bird in Hand in 1981. It was a small store inside the print shop and they tried their hand at promoting this retail business of their own. In considering what they would carry in the store, kites came to mind. Bob had fond memories of flying kites as a boy and would look forward to a spool of string and a kite for his birthday.

Today when you visit Bird in Hand on Broadway you'll immediately notice that it is special. The Malowneys embrace the idea that people are looking for lots of options and they enjoy offering a good variety. When shopping amongst their carefully selected items, you'll see several types of an item on one shelf. "People like to have many choices when they buy gifts, and we want them to know they can come here and find several options on our shelves." The Malowneys are happy that after many years, the same folks who used to shop for their kids are now shopping for their grandkids, passing on to other generations the tradition of visiting the store.

"We carry what every kid should play with before they leave childhood."

Along with providing a great place to find wonderfully special toys for kids of all ages, Bob also focuses his time and energy on community enrichment for the young and young at heart. Bob created Chico Kite Day in 1985

which incorporated his love of kites and was geared toward building the community. The yearly event has become a tradition with many thousands of kids having experienced flying kites with their families, while being encouraged to "Celebrate Spring at the end of a string!"

In 1987, Bob rediscovered the yo-yo and Bird in Hand started making a wooden yo-yo that they sold at the store. From the beginning, yo-yo contests in Chico had a great response. The contest that initially drew participants only from our community has now has evolved into the National Yo-Yo Contest and today draws participants from all over the United States. In Bob's vision, creating an event like this would motivate others to do the same in their communities. But Chico was the only contest that was consistently being held so the the attendance continued to grow and grow. One year Bob welcomed over 300 participants, and he knew the format needed to be adjusted. In 1993 Bob created a non profit organization that would enable the support of yo-yo contests around the country.

The National Yo-Yo Museum, Contest and League are served under one entity. Regional yo-yo contests are now held all over the United States, where the top 5 qualifiers in each division converge on Chico in October for the Nationals.

Bob & Barbara Malowney went in search for a community with whom they could share their passions, and we are so fortunate that they picked Chico. This town certainly wouldn't be the same without them!

Visit Bird In Hand and help make your life more fun!

Bird in Hand | 320 Broadway St., Chico | (530) 893-0545 | birdinhand.com 24

UPGRADED LIVING | DECEMBER 2012 | UPGRADEDLIVING.COM

(above) Bob Malowney, owner and founder of Downtown Chico’s Bird in Hand. (directly above) The world’s largest yo-yo on display at Bird in Hand. (below) A sampling of the multitude of toys found at Bird in Hand.

3.5"w x 4.75"h.

Making life more fun.

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UPGRADED LIVING | DECEMBER 2012 | UPGRADEDLIVING.COM

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Spaces

New Again Kitchen and Bath

A Dream Come True

by Alyssa Worley

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PICTURE THIS: Small community neighborhood, beautiful homes, nestled just feet away from a picturesque lake. That is the reality at Sierra Lakeside Homes off Bruce Road!

Upon entering a house in this scenic neighborhood, we were greeted by beautiful maple wood floors that contrasted perfectly with white cabinets, stainless steels appliances, and sleek marble counter tops. Tanya Irish-Hewett, the designer of the remodel was there to further welcome

UPGRADED LIVING | DECEMBER 2012 | UPGRADEDLIVING.COM

us into this beautiful home!

Tanya of New Again Kitchen & Bath in Chico does an incredible thing. She actually talks to her clients and gets to know them as people before she designs. In this case, she needed to create something accessible with lots of storage, while still maintaining a beautiful design. She opened up walls to create a direct view to the lake and to make the space seem even larger.

Something not seen often in kitchens are pull out corner cabinets. Her client had photographs by Clark Miller

Spaces

traveled quite a bit before settling into this permanent home, so she had great pieces that needed to shine in a display. Tanya decided a hutch in the kitchen, and built-in bookshelves in the living room would be the perfect solution. These thoughtful additions created tons of storage while still showing off the home-owner’s diverse and artful memorabilia.

Tanya is passionate about her design and creation and feels that the best part of this remodel was “bringing to life the ideas, dreams, and thoughts of the owner.” Collecting cut outs and bookmarked designs of what she imagined for her dream kitchen, the home-owner’s hopes were finally made a reality with the help of New Again Kitchen & Bath!

(above left) The finished product of Tanya’s kitchen overhaul. (direct left) The newly installed living room bookshelf. (directly above) A new hutch provides a place for the homeowners many worldly findings.

New Again Kitchen and Bath | 2502 Park Avenue, Chico | (530) 899-2888 31

A Top Ten Agent in 2011

Sherry Landis

(530) 514-4855

landis4sale@aol.com www.SherryLandis.com CA-DRE lic# 01084946

Top Listing Agent in July, August, and September 2012!

Top Producer in September 2012! I can sell your home too!

LISTEN TO US FEATURE YOUR SOLD! Michael Galli custom built home!

Gorgeous kitchen, very large eating bar, newer granite, appliances, engineered hardwood and stone floors. The fireplace was custom built, walls of windows looking out to a beautiful in ground gunite pool, complete with pool house approximately 455 sq.ft.

Bed: 5.0 Bath: 3.0 SqFt: 3,909 Acreage: 1.5 Price: $679,000

PROPERTIES ON KKXX FM 104.5 in CHICO, PARADISE, and OROVILLE EVERY OTHER FRIDAY FROM 2PM - 3PM!

Beauty and architecture combine in this custom 4400sqft+ home on over 4 acres.

This home is framed by ancient Chinese rock walls and blue oak trees in an upscale country area of custom homes. Features 5 bedrooms, 4.5 bathrooms and large downstairs office with French doors onto back porch. Master suite is a couple’s dream with a wall of windows offering a beautiful view, dressing room perfect for workout space, large walk-in closet and master bath that transports you to the spa.

The kitchen is a chef’s delight with commercial range, granite counters, pantry, butler’s work area and formal dining room. The 4.2 acres provides plenty of room for horses. If only there was more room to list all that this home has to offer!! Call today and see for yourself!

Bed: 5.0 Bath: 4.5 SqFt: 4,467 Price: $749,000

Imm In th this carp new mas and Bed:

Just minutes from town you will find this custom built home situated on 10 acres!

This 5 bedroom home with covered porches and balconies gives you that feeling of being on vacation right in your own yard. The pond is complete with water fall, outdoor entertaining patios has a pergola, and is fenced for safety. Above the detached garage/shop you will find approximately 1,000 sq.ft. of a separate unit with bathroom. The floors are bamboo and beautiful. The main house has cherry wood floors downstairs in the kitchen and family room - counters are concrete and a wall of windows looking out your beautiful yard. The property has 15 kw solar panels and offsets PG&E costs. Too many amenities to list with this this amazing property. Call today!

Bed: 5.0 Bath: 5.0 SqFt: 4,189 Price: $990,000

Immaculate newer home, situated on nearly 6 acres! Nearly brand new 25x 40 shop, a dream for all of that stuff! Roll up doors with drive thru feature. This 3/3 bath home + office looks like it is out of Restoration Hardware from the minute you step foot through the front door! Alder cabinets in the kitchen combined with walls of windows are just a few of the many great amenities this home boasts! The master is suited for a king/ or queen, so slip into that tub or that oversized shower with separate vanity areas! Lots of storage and oversized bedrooms, beautiful colors, low-e skylights and sprinkler system inside and out, also wired for a generator backup, and set up for a cellular security system! Decks to lay out and admire the view, just minutes from Chico!

Bed: 3.0 Bath: 3.0 SqFt: 2,740 Price: $465,000

Com gran darl floo roof

Bed

2.5 Acres in a very serene setting! What’s not to like? There is a fireplace, woodstove, screened in porch, dual pane windows, circular driveway with places for all sorts of toys and this and that’s! These type don’t pop up that often, close to town yet feels a million miles away!

Located at the end of the cul-de-sac this very clean home has the biggest RV area covered that I have seen in this neighborhood! These clients have more rose bushes and have taken care of this very large yard, a spa, nice screened in patio, formal dinning room, living room with fireplace!

Bed: 4.0 Bath: 2.0 SqFt: 2,143 Price: $350,000

Bed: 3.0 Bath: 2.0 SqFt: 2,065 Price: $330,000

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UPGRADED LIVING | DECEMBER 2012 | UPGRADEDLIVING.COM

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LISTEN TO US FEATURE YOUR PROPERTIES ON KKXX

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FM 104.5 Immaculate home close to Bidwell Park, In Motion Fitness, and shopping.

In the last few months, the seller has made a number of upgrades to this home which include: new paint inside and out, granite counters, new carpet and linoleum, a new shower door, faucets, low flow toilets, and new shower head. This darling home also offers a large living room, brick masonry fireplace with wood insert, large yard with beautiful landscaping, and much more.

in CHICO, PARADISE, and OROVILLE EVERY OTHER FRIDAY FROM 2PM - 3PM!

Bed: 4.0 Bath: 2.0 SqFt: 1,468 Price: $249,900

SOLD! Lovely, well maintained 3 bed, 2 bath home in a convenient central Chico location, with tile kitchen counters, eating bar, separate living and family rooms, corner fireplace and so much more! The mature landscaping, large lot and ideal location make this home a dream come true!

Bed: 3.0 Bath: 2.0 SqFt: 1,591 Price: $199,000

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Come check it out! Recently upgraded with all new appliances, granite counter tops, tile floors, new fixtures and fresh paint. This darling home is located in a great neighborhood featuring an open floor plan, high ceilings, large living room with fireplace and new roof!

Darling charmer in a great avenue location, close to hospital and downtown. this property offers 2 homes in one lot. The front home has high ceilings, arched walls, living room and formal dining, ceiling fans and indoor laundry. The back home has 2 bedrooms, 1 bath living room and a kitchenette!

Bed: 3.0 Bath: 2.0 SqFt: 1,875 Price: $279,000

Bed: 4.0 Bath: 2.0 SqFt: 1,616 Price: $260,000

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SOLD! Intoxicating View! Located in one of the most precious gated communities, this beautiful Tuscan style home offers soaring ceilings, walls of windows, a spacious living room with fireplace, library, formal dining room, beautiful kitchen, bamboo and slate floorings, full-house speaker system, fine slate surface counter tops, Jack & Jill bedrooms, Kohler sinks, 400 sq. ft. covered lanai with wet bar, 30x15 Pebble Tec Pool with hydraulic cover, fire pit, fountain, 2 car garage plus a 30x15 shop for a boat or a recreational vehicle.

Behind the Iron Gates in a community of luxury homes, awaits a 3 acre parcel.

The view is magnificent and the acreage is surrounded by majestic oak trees, towering redwood trees, a flowing creek and absolute tranquility. There are several ideal spots for your dream home here.

Bed: 4.0 Bath: 3.0 SqFt: 3,050 Price: $589,000

Acreage: 3.01 Price: $120,000

ABSOLUTELY BEAUTIFUL! Located in one of chico’s finest neighborhoods, this lot a beautiful hill-top view. Owner financing possible!

Acreage: 1.66 Price: $99,000 33

Mark Reaman (530) 228-2229

MarkReaman@gmail.com CA-DRE lic# 01265853

USDA 100% financing available on this new construction! Two plans to choose from and 8 different lots at this price, 3 bedroom & two bath models with a den and 3 car garage. 90-120 day build out, call Mark for materials list and subdivision information Call Mark (530) 228-2229 Price: $280,000

REDUCED PRICE and a GREAT DEAL in Orland! 5 bedrooms and 5 baths, PLUS 2 offices, on over a half acre in town? WOW! 2910 sq. ft. house plus 2 heated and cooled offices with a half bath across the breezeway, and you have approximately 3150 sq. ft. for only $87/ ft. New roof, fresh exterior paint and a refinished pool.

Call Dennis (530) 571-7795

Bed: 5.0 Bath: 5.0 Price: $274,000

Dennis Louber (530) 518-9252

dloubercentury21@gmail.com

CA-DRE lic# 1745939

REDUCED! Beautifully Maintained one owner home on a quite cul-de-sac, featuring 4 bedrooms and 3 full baths, formal living and dining rooms, family room with a fireplace, dining nook and a den/study. The back yard has an inground pool and plenty of patio space for summertime entertaining, this is a great property, prepare to be impressed.

Call Mark (530) 228-2229

Cute and clean 3 bedroom, 2 bath home located on a quiet cul-de-sac, formal dining area and breakfast nook, nice sized back yard & new roof to installed in escrow! This one won’t last! Asking $245,000 Call Mark (530) 228-2229

3 LOTS, $19,667 EACH! great location.

Sewer and water available in front. All 3 must be sold together, and are included for $59,000. Lot sizes are 8712, 8276, and 8276 sq. ft. .20 .19 and .19 of an acre. Located at the NW corner of Co Rd M1/2 and E. Tehama. Close to downtown and conveniently located on eastside of Orland..

Call Dennis (530) 571-7795

Bed: 4.0

Bed: 3.0

Acreage: .2 Price:$59,000

Bath: 3.0 Price: $339,500

Bath: 2.0 Price: $245,000

COMING SOON: UPSCALE LIVING IN PARADISE! Dream home located in one of the best neighborhoods in Paradise with beautiful landscaping and all the amenities a buyer could ask for. Great for entertaining, this home is situated on 1.89 acres Call Dennis (530) 571-7795 Bed: 3.0 Bath: 3.0 SqFt: 2,491 Price: $379,000 Acreage: 1.89

CA-DRE lic# 01257669

Vikki Reimer

(530) 894-4515

vikkireimer@yahoo.com www.VikkiSellsChico.com

Beautiful, custom built home in a peaceful and beautiful setting. Gourmet kitchen, granite counters, awesome master suite, bonus room/office. Gorgeous pool, with a brand new 32x42 shop and so much more. A must see on 1.81 acres!

Bed: 3.0 Bath: 2.5 SqFt: 2,840 Price: $675,000 Acreage: 1.81

Everything you’re looking for! Open floor plan with awesome master suite ! Updated kitchen and baths. New windows, doors, interior and exterior paint, landscaping and more.

Bed: 3.0 34

Bath: 2.0 SqFt: 2,001

Price: $249,000

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IT DOESN’T TAKE A STORM Human capacity to unite and help

by Alexa Benson-Valavanis

n, a

THE CAR IN FRONT OF ME HEARS THE SIREN A MOMENT BEFORE I DO AND PULLS OVER. I DO THE SAME THEN GLANCE IN MY REAR-VIEW MIRROR AND WATCH THE DENSE STREAM OF VEHICLES BEHIND ME MAKE WAY FOR THE AMBULANCE TO GET THROUGH.

in-

35

HABITUALLY, I OFFER A PRAYER. I’ve done this since I was a small child. This time with the rain falling, I offer two. One for the crew in the ambulance and one for its unknown destination. Altogether it takes a few seconds for those of us on the road to unite and synchronize our efforts. In this case our help is to move aside so professionals can get through.

Underneath the dark sky there is no time to consider who needs the help. We don’t hesitate. We don’t ask about religious views or politics. Are they rich or poor? Gay or straight? Do they deserve it? We don’t care. None of that matters when a siren sounds. Someone needs help so we move aside to let the ambulance through.

This human capacity to unite for a stranger always pulls gratitude from the middle of my heart into my throat. We are good on the inside. I know this but love when clear evidence is given unexpectedly. I take a huge gulp of air to keep the tears back then pull onto the road and continue driving.

always been drawn to everyday kindness and generosity.

The kind offered when we think no one else is watching.

When we offer a hand. When we open a door. When we make a real sacrifice for someone who will never know our name.

And, during times of crisis the human capacity for compassion is overwhelming. The day after Hurricane Sandy hit my telephone at work was filled with messages from people wanting to know what they could do to help.

Mirroring the response after Katrina, the Tsunami and the local fires. The same response seconds after a local car accident or heart attack. People want to know what they can do to help. This is just who we are. We are good. We are generous and kind. It doesn’t matter where we live, what language we speak or God we pray to, when we see someone in need - we move.

I am humbled by the generosity of our local community members. Whether it’s lending a few hours to volunteering at the animal shelter or dedicating their life to making a difference in the world - it all matters. We can all make a difference.

Shirley Adams comes to mind. Shirley is a local woman who has made it her life work to bring access to clean water to areas of the world at the mercy of rainfall. I think of Dan and Joan Strauss, a local family who turned the devastating loss of their teenage son Alex into efforts 36

UPGRADED LIVING | DECEMBER 2012 | UPGRADEDLIVING.COM

GET INVOLVED www.nvcf.org www.bridgingthegapbygiving.org www.thetwelve.info facebook search term: “The-Alex-Project”

This is the proof I have that we are good!

Shirley is a local woman who has made it her life work to bring access to clean water to areas of the world at the mercy of rainfall.

to prevent youth suicide in our region.

Then there is Justin. A local boy who decided one Christmas that he’d rather give a bike to a child in need than to have a new one of his own. A project that has lead to dozens of bikes being gifted each Christmas to local children. I am reminded of The Twelve, a group of women focused on caring for local families not on Santa’s route. This is the proof I have that we are good! We are so very good on the inside.

So many of you come to mind when I think of the generosity of our local community. And, although I know it doesn’t take a storm for us to come together to help, knowing when a storm comes we have each other brings me great peace. For that, and for your incredible generosity, thank you!

This holiday season may we continue to offer our gifts of compassion and generosity to all those who cross our paths. There has never been a time when those gifts were needed more.

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Events

Treat Street Photography by Clark Miller

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What brings out Butte County’s most adorable little ghouls, ghosts, and goblins? Well, Downtown Chico’s Treat Street, of course! October 31st flooded Downtown Chico with some of the cutest costumes we’ve seen in the past few years. Over sixty of our favorite businesses participated in handing out candy to our polite little visitors and the smiles on their faces lit up the downtown area like the Fourth of July. Various activities, entertainment and special vendors charmed visitors in the City Plaza, while Tres Hombres hosted the Treat Street Costume Contest. The event was a blast for young and old alike, and we, for one, are looking forward to seeing what next year will bring!

UPGRADED LIVING | DECEMBER 2012 | UPGRADEDLIVING.COM

Business

Renée Michel

Charitable Gifting

MBA, FINANCIAL ADVISOR

by Renée Michel, MBA

Financial Advisor for Asset Management Group

2452 Lakewest Drive • Chico, CA 95928 530­342­2900 • 800­333­2901 rmichel@amgchico.com www.amgchico.com

First Time Investors | Experienced Investors Investors Seeking a Second Opinion Call Today.

There is Never a Fee to Talk.

Stock & Bond Portfolio Management College Savings Plans | Rollovers | Retirement Plans

Many people like to make charitable gifts during the holiday season. Here are a few things to note if you plan to make a charitable gift before New Year’s Day. If you give cash, you need to document it.

Even small contributions need to be demonstrated by a bank record, payroll deduction record, credit card statement, or written communication from the charity with the date and amount. Incidentally, the IRS does not equate a pledge with a donation. If you pledge $2,000 to a charity in December but only end up gifting $500 before 2012 ends, you can only deduct $500.

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Are you gifting appreciated securities?

If you have owned them for more than a year, you will be in line to take a deduction for 100% of their fair market value and avoid capital gains tax that would have resulted from simply selling the stock, fund or bond and then donating those proceeds. (Of course, if your investment has a loss, then it might be better to sell it and donate the money so you can claim a loss on the sale and deduct a charitable contribution equivalent to the proceeds.)

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Does the value of your gift exceed $250?

It may, and if you gift that amount or larger to a qualified charitable organization, you will need a receipt or a detailed verification form from the charity. You also have to file Form 8283 when your total deduction for non-cash contributions or property in a year exceeds $500.

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If you aren’t sure if an organization is eligible to receive charitable gifts, check it out at www.irs.gov/Charities-&-NonProfits/Exempt-Organizations-Select-Check.

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news.cincinnati.com/article/20120919/BIZ/309190108/Businesswise-Make-most-charitablecontributions [9/19/12] This information is intended to provide information on the subjects covered. It is not intended to provide specific legal or tax advice. For more information, please consult with your tax advisor.

All information is believed to be from reliable sources. However, I make no representation as to its completeness or accuracy.

Renée Michel, MBA2452 Lakewest Drive | Chico, CA 530-342-2900 | 800-333-2901 | (F) 530-342-3925 rmichel@amgchico.com | www.amgchico.com 39

Events

Tour of Lights

by Aveed Khaki

There are few things in Chico that are as synonymous with the holiday season as the Tour of Lights. This year, a number of our favorite veteran lighting experts are back to show off their skills and we’re lucky to have a few newcomers to our list as well. Below, you’ll find some of this year’s best bets on the Tour of Lights. For a more comprehensive list and help planning an optimized route, visit our website at UpgradedLiving.com!

Houses worth the trip 2135 Nord Ave. No. 42 (south of East Avenue) in Royal Palms mobile home park 1807 Arcadian Ave. (off West Eighth Avenue) 1518 E. Lassen Ave. (east of Eaton Road) 1170 and 1172 Whitewood Way Floral Avenue. Start here and work your way down towards Eaton & Esplanade 4 Wildflower Court (off Forest Avenue)

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UPGRADED LIVING | DECEMBER 2012 | UPGRADEDLIVING.COM

Health

Laser Treatment

For Age/Sun Spots & Broken Capillaries

by Dr. Vimali Paul

INTENSE PULSED LIGHT TREATMENTS are a well known non-invasive treatment for age spots and broken capillaries. It is designed to remove most discoloration in 3 to 5 treatments. It is also good for reducing diffuse redness of the face as seen in rosacea and in generalized sun damage. It can be used on the face, chest or hands.

In some cases it can also help to boost collagen and elastin production, and this treatment is a must for someone looking to even out the complexion and look radiant with less makeup. But this is a shotgun approach.

KTP laser or pulse dye laser is the standard of care for broken blood vessels and telangiectasia. It is more precise than the IPL and at the Derm Bar we have a KTP laser pen that traces these vessels and eliminates them. It makes the small vessels collapse, though new ones can possibly form. 2 to 5 treatments are typical. It can also be used to eliminate spider and cherry angiomas in as little as 1 treatment. If diffuse redness is present we usually recommend the IPL followed by the KTP or PDL laser.

Both treatments are also very effective for sun and age spots. Head into the Derm Bar Med-Spa for your free consultation. We are open Monday through Friday from 10 to 6, and we stay open until 7 on Thursdays!

Derm Bar 85 Declaration Drive #100 Chico (530) 342-2672 | thedermbar.com 42

UPGRADED LIVING | DECEMBER 2012 | UPGRADEDLIVING.COM

Business

Resolve to Review

by John Sweeney

As the current year comes to a close, it is time to start planning for the upcoming year. An important part of reviewing the financial stability of our family or business is to review our insurance policies to ensure that we have protected our family and business adequately and appropriately.

Create a check-list to help review what you have and what may be needed for the future. The ability to answer yes to the questions below is a great start.

Life Insurance Is adequate protection is available? Is beneficiary information current? Have I reviewed current coverage with a loved one in case of emergency? If I’m a business owner, do I have a plan to ensure the continuation of our business if the unexpected occurs?

Health Insurance Based on the medical expenses this year, does our plan cover our family’s needs adequately and are we covered for any known upcoming medical needs?

Disability Insurance If you are self-employed, you may want to consider a disability policy to provide protection in the event of an accident or injury that prohibits you from working.

Even if you are covered under Workers’ Compensation insurance, you may want to consider Disability coverage for those incidents that are not work related.

Property-Casualty Insurance Have I reviewed the limits of coverage for my auto and home insurance policies and do they commensurate with the value of what we are insuring? If you are a business owner, coverage should also extend to your business.

Life has a tendency to catch us by surprise.

Promotions, layoffs, marriage, divorce, childbirth, opening a business, closing a business, and other life events often require that we re-evaluate our insurance needs.

This is one New Year’s resolution we should strive to keep in place each year!

Sweeney & Sweeney (530) 895-5260 www.sweeneyins.com 43

Health

Shop Until You Drop

(and give me ten)

by Scott Amick, CPT

HAVE YOU STARTED YOUR CHRISTMAS SHOPPING YET? NO?! Well then I have a couple of powerful gift ideas for you that will continue to be valuable to your loved ones for years! Technology continues to be an impressive stocking stuffer, especially with the recent release of the iPhone 5 and all that comes with it. This Christmas I suggest helping out your new iPhone userfriends by purchasing one of the following fitness related apps or accessories: Turn their iPhone into a Heart Rate Monitor!

Waterproof their iPhone so that they can swim laps with some tunes!

Mount their iPhone to their bike for GPS and navigation based training!

Buy them an iTunes gift card so that they can download one of the following cool fitness apps: Ultratimer: simple to use interval timer!

VT TRX: exercise progressions for the TRX system Digifit: a comprehensive caloric expenditure and heart rate monitoring system, complete with GPS and social media sharing!!

Bodyfitness: exercise progressions with internet based instructional videos MoFit: a functional training movement library

Each of these suggestions can be a stand alone approach to increasing health and fitness. In the same breath it is important to mention that when integrated and supervised by a health professional that has experience with these concepts, the results can be nothing short of amazing! ABD has built the foundation for implementing these pieces of technological gold into your health and fitness regime. Do yourself or your new fitness technology user a favor and log on to advanced-body. com to set up an appointment to learn how to best utilize these awesome apps!

Happy Holidays from your friends at ABD! Scott Amick, CPT advanced-body.com 44

UPGRADED LIVING | DECEMBER 2012 | UPGRADEDLIVING.COM

Health

Yoga Pose of the Month

Uttanasana

Simple Forward Fold

by Dr. Paula Barros, D.C.

THIS IS A POSTURE OF LISTENING. . . To turn our attention inward, although the back of the body experiences a strong release into the stretch of hamstring muscles, the core is canopied to support the spine while the mind quiets into the natural wisdom inside of each of us.

246 West 3rd Street 路 Downtown Chico 路 (530) 891-0880 路 www.KirksJewelry.com

This simple forward fold hinges from the hips and allows natural spinal traction. Feet are placed hips width apart for ease; arms can be placed on a table surface; eventually lowering to touch the earth in gratitude.

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Follow the natural rhythm of breath, respectfully giving equal attention to inhale & exhale. Peace within. . .

ClearCreekYoga@gmail.com 530 894 8756 | www.clearyoga.com 45

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UPGRADED LIVING | DECEMBER 2012 | UPGRADEDLIVING.COM

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Wookey Ranch

by Amber Abney

photography by Erin Wenham

ONE THING THAT YOU LIKELY WON’T GET FROM THE AISLES AT YOUR LOCAL SUPERMARKET IS THE STORY BEHIND THE PEOPLE AND THE PLACES WHERE YOUR FOOD IS RAISED. Having a personal connection with one’s food source has become increasingly important to folks in our area, and rightfully so. Chico’s Wookey Ranch is one of those sources that you can’t help but want a personal connection with. Focused on raising both grass fed

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lambs and chickens, this ranch is a welcome element of our local food landscape and our visit to the ranch on the the exact morning when ten new lambs were born only strengthened our infatuation with what they do.

Life noticeably slows when you pull into Wookey Ranch. The sky seems a little brighter and the sounds of nature surround you. Just 15 miles from Chico, Christine Hantelman & Richard Coon have dedicated not only their farm, but also their lives to

UPGRADED LIVING | DECEMBER 2012 | UPGRADEDLIVING.COM

bringing their customers the best food possible. Respect is key here, not only for the animals they raise, but also for the land that supports their efforts. In 2001, the ranch transitioned to energy independence, utilizing solar panels to provide the power necessary for day-to-day operating . During that same time, Richard applied for a grant that would later award the ranch five wind turbines, further lessening their need for any form of backup power.

The ranch supports eighty ewes and

(opposite page) Some of Wookey Ranch’s newest additions. (above) Part of the solar array that powers Wookey. (right) Wookey Ranch co-founder, Christine Hantelman. (below) Wookey Ranch’s grass-fed chickens.

sees approximately one hundred lambs per year. With so many farm dependents, sustainability is key, and the folks at Wookey are experts in the field. Strict rotational grazing is practiced on the ranch, affording the ability to feed the highest quality grasses to their herds. The ewes are sheared in May, and the wool is shipped out for processing at with a wool commodities company right here on the West Coast. From there, the wool is cleaned and forwarded to Roswell, New Mexico where buyers flock to bid on it. These purchases have the potential to land Wookey wool across the nation! Have you pulled on a wool sweater or pair of socks recently? There’s a chance it's compliments of the Wookey girls.

Richard & Christine came to Chico in 1989 from Iowa. Richard is originally from Washington, D.C., but spent a lot of his youth overseas with parents who were foreign service government employees. He is trained as an aircraft mechanic and is able to keep his skills sharp by fixing mechanical doo-dads all over the ranch. Christine is still amazed by what Richard can fix when he puts his hands to something. She graduated from The University of Iowa with an art degree, and later went on to earn her master’s degree in botany from Chico State.

Christine tracks, charts and records everything that goes on around the ranch. The morning of our visit, she was weighing and recording birth weights for their newest arrivals. The two can be found most Saturdays at the year-round Farmer's Market in Chico, so be sure you stop in and say hello.

If you can't catch them there, you can always take a ride out to the ranch and get a taste of the beautiful country life that exists so close to us!

To find out more about the goings on at Wookey Ranch, you can email Christine directly at wookeyranch@gmail.com 51

Fire & Light Festival

Special Pricing Thanksgiving Weekend

For nearly 15 years, a group of Northern California artisans have combined age-old craftsmanship and post-consumer waste in stunning glassware.

Stop by for special pricing on our entire selection of beautiful recycled glass tableware and add to your collection.

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UPGRADED LIVING | DECEMBER 2012 | UPGRADEDLIVING.COM

Business

Taste of Asia

by Amber Abney

THE RICE BOWL HAS SAT AT THE CORNER of Lassen and Esplanade for some 53 years in Chico. Originally opened in 1959 by Howard Fong, Sr., the Rice Bowl offers a wonderful combination of authentic Chinese cuisine, as well as some of the Americanized Chinese cuisine, and Japanese fare including Sushi. Howard and his wife, Yee worked for many years staying committed to offering their guests an authentic Chinese experience. They were blessed with

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very loyal customers, and a following large enough to require adding more space to the restaurant. After nearly 40 years, and with their children all grown and raising families of their own, Howard & Yee decided it was time to retire. Shortly after, the restaurant was taken over by new ownership, and they were set to enjoy their families, and retired life.

Several years later, the new owners found themselves unable to continue running the business, and this time, it was the next generation of Fongs that were waiting. Having been raised around the restaurant, helping with duties starting at the young age of 9, three of the Fong's children were ready for the challenge. And in 2004, Howard Jr., Henry and Rose began the newest chapter in the Rice Bowl story.

The Rice Bowl offers a wonderful, and diverse menu. By offering both Chinese and Japanese food, they are able to cater to most of their guests’ taste buds. But the diversity isn't limited to the menu, the restaurant’s interior offers very authentic experiences for their guests while dining. Traditional Chinese dining includes a belief that the plates served are communal, and are to be shared by everyone at the table, hence the large round tables with lazy susans in the dining room.

The Rice Bowl also offers two Tatami Rooms to enjoy an authentic Japanese

UPGRADED LIVING | DECEMBER 2012 | UPGRADEDLIVING.COM

(above) Sushi is prepared in standard Rice Bowl fashion: to perfection. (left) One of the beautiful private rooms within the restaurant. (bottom left) Rose Fong, a second generation owner of Rice Bowl.

meal in. Guests are welcomed into their room after removing their shoes and seated on the floor cross-legged to enjoy their meal.

It is a wonderful place to go and celebrate a joyous event privately, or to have a large gathering. Either way, the times enjoyed will not soon be forgotten.

The finishing touches have now been put on a brand-new Sushi Room at the restaurant. The presentation is amazing, and is sure to take your breath away upon entering. The rich counters feature under lighting, the perfectly colored delicate fixtures complement the room’s natural light, and the three Sushi Chefs are there to ensure your experience is top notch.

The Rice Bowl offers a combination of authentic foods, is pleased to offer glutenfree choices, and is committed to never adding MSG to your meal. In addition to their catering, they also welcome guests to use the banquet room during the upcoming holiday season.

You can find them at 2804 Esplanade, open seven days a week, 11am-10pm. You can also view the menu online, at www.ricebowlchico.com.

Spaces

ur sk o

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EXP

Scott L. in Chico asks:

I love Christmas but I hate how fast the season goes by. I try to get my Christmas tree early and keep it for all of December so I can have the Christmas feeling for longer in my home. Do you have any tips for choosing a tree, and also for keeping the tree green and healthy while it’s inside?

Answer by Marc Wesley CTSPv LIKE FLOWERS THAT HAVE BEEN CUT and begin to show signs of decline trees will too. But here are some tips to help lengthen the life of your tree and keep your house filled with the holiday spirit all season long.

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Cut your own tree or buy from a local farm. There are several great places to buy Christmas trees in our local area. This ensures that you are getting the freshest cut tree to start and it also supports local farming.

Inspect your tree before you buy it.

Bend the needles and make sure they are flexible, not dry and brittle.

After a tree is cut, the sap coats the base of the trunk in about 3 hours and

. .

hinders water absorption. Make a fresh base cut on pre-cut trees to help water absorption.

Don’t let the water dry up in your tree stand. Depending on size, trees will soak up around a quart of water each day, so make sure you top off the water frequently.

Set the tree in a place without direct sunlight and far from a heater vent.

Fans, heaters and sunlight will dry your tree out.

You can use a room humidifier to keep moisture in the air and lower the risk of fire.

Use low-heat lights on your tree.

LED lights are cheaper to run and cooler for your tree.

. . . .

M&S Wesley Tree Service | ISA Certified Arborist 8458A (530)343-6809 | www.mswtree.com

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UPGRADED LIVING | DECEMBER 2012 | UPGRADEDLIVING.COM

You may have just wrapped up our November buyer’s guide, but when there’s more to see, well, there’s more to see! Much like our Holiday Buyer’s Guide last year, this year’s iteration also comes in two separate packages. With that being said, we proudly present the second half of Butte County’s most sought after presents for the 2013 holiday season!

Remember, our Holiday Buyer’s Guide promotion will be in effect until December 23rd! Winning is easy: Stop into any of the shops listed, buy a present for a family member, friend, or simply treat yourself, and pick up a “Letter to Santa.” On the back of the card you’ll find this year’s secret giveaway items. Place a check next to the item you’d like to win and drop the card off at our office located at 301 Broadway Street in downtown Chico, at the opposite corner from Starbucks. Winners will be selected on Christmas Eve and posted on our Facebook wall!

Wishing you the best of luck and a happy holiday season!

Your friendly local businesses, Santa Claus and Upgraded Living Magazine 57

Arts

Local artist profiles

Sally Dimas Art Gallery October 16 through November, Folk Art and Crafts is the theme at the Gallery.

Reception is November 9th from 4-8 pm. One of a kind gift items such as sculptures, dolls and old world Christmas ornaments. Fine art paintings by local artists, an art and craft collectors delight. Shown: Claudia D. Howell’s Gourd Art gives a modern look to a Native American tradition.

493 East Ave. Suite 1 & 3 Chico Ca. 95926 530-345-3063 Friends are welcome

Bruce Sillars Master in his craft Viewing hours: Monday – Friday 10am – 1pm (viewing hours may vary)

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Orient & Flume

Orient & Flume Holiday Sale Tuesday Dec, 4th Through Saturday Dec. 8th 20% off all Art Glass Gallery Hours 10am – 5pm Monday through Saturday 2161 Park Ave. Chico Ca. 530-893-0373 Ext. 3 Discover the Beauty of Hand Blown Art Glass 1972-2012

2161 Park Ave, 95928 Gallery hours: Monday – Saturday 10am – 5pm 530-893-0373 Ext.3 www.orientandflume.com Orient & Flume world renowned Art Glass 1972 - 2012

UPGRADED LIVING | DECEMBER 2012 | UPGRADEDLIVING.COM

AicoraGems Jewelry Box Gallery 1334 Mangrove Ave. Chico, CA 95926 530-809-1034

Holiday Hours: Tues – Sat 10-6. & by Appt. geralyn@aicoragems.com chicojewelrybox.com follow us on facebook

All Fired Up! Ceramic Art Center

2 locations: 830 Broadway, downtown Chico and the Chico Mall (near Sears) allfiredupchico.org (530) 894-5227

Geralyn Sheridan

Designer – Gemologist - Metalsmith

Adorn responsibly this season with one of a kind fine jewelry handcrafted by local artisans. Experience re-cycling at it’s finest. Create a custom design to re-purpose your estate jewelry or choose certified Green Gold and ethical gems.

Janice Hofmann Give the gift of creativity - All Fired Up! offers drop-in pottery painting for that unique and personal gift made by you! We also offer classes in pottery, tile making and sculpture and have a selection of fine pottery gifts. Custom tile designs a specialty.

Local artist profiles

Avenue 9 Gallery 180 E. 9th Ave avenue9gallery.com

Avenue 9 Gallery 180 E. 9th Ave avenue9gallery.com

Art Etc. 122 W. 3rd Street in downtown Chico.

Arts

Cynthia Sexton Cynthia Sexton is an award winning watercolor artist. Her paintings reflect her love for color and the abstract shapes created by the effects of sun on her subjects. She is a Guild member at Avenue 9 Gallery where you can currently view her work. In addition to being a full-time artist she is also teaching watercolor at various venues in Chico and Paradise. Her website provides the latest information on her classes and events. www.cynthia-sexton.com

Claudia B. Schwartz “I love working with kiln-formed fused glass, creating art pieces, jewelry, and mosaics. See my work at Avenue 9 Gallery in Chico, where I’m a founding Guild member.”

Dave Simcox Inspired by a tile rug made at the Malibu Tile Company in the 1920’s, this design by Dave Simcox is entirely handmade using the “cuerda seca” technique. It is 3 by 5 feet and has 122 tiles. Is is the first of eight planned. To learn more about the 20 step cuerda seca process, go to our Facebook page.

Avenue 9 Gallery 180 E. 9th Ave avenue9gallery.com

Website: furniturebylea.com Find me on Facebook For appointment, all 570-1086 Gallery/shop Location: 13303 Cabin Hollow Ct.

122 w. 3rd Street Chico Ca 95928 Open 11-5 M-F And by appt.

530-680-7880

Dolores Mitchell New paintings, koi ponds and rice fields in “Reflections, Refractions, Reveries” opening Dec. 7. Artist’s talk Jan 11, 5:30 pm, Avenue 9 Gallery, 180 E. 9th Ave, avenue9gallery.com.

Richard Lea Rich designs and builds one-of-a- kind pieces of furniture both on a commission and on a speculation basis. In all of his work, his goals are to design and build furniture that will: 1) perform well according to its intended function; 2) last for generations; and 3) please the eye and sense of touch.

Elizabeth Newman Kuiper Fine art photography through cell phone cameras.

Elizizabeth, owner of pixel perfect printing, also specializes in archival digital prints, large, large format, canvas, paper, photography and copy work.

Elizabeth@pixelperfectprinting.net

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Arts

Artist Profile:

Carob Bradlyn

by Briana Lindstrom

IN A BRIGHTLY COLORED BACKYARD STUDIO CAROB BRADLYN CREATES INSPIRED ART. Her 2 kids pop in and out with their own artistic ideas and energy and large speakers fill the cozy room with music to create by. The inspiration behind most of Carob’s art is the generosity and goodness she sees in others. From Barack Obama to Lady Gaga to Angelina Jolie to her own friends who have made an impact on her life, she admires the beauty of kindness, turns it into lively art bursting with color and soul and donates it to philanthropic causes. Her style incorporates her trademark “swirlies,” her love of all colors, intricate patterns, and a story behind each piece.

You can contact Carob at carob.weebly.com Carob would like to give a special thanks to Anna at Art Etc. for being so supportive of her art and what she is doing with it.

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UL: How did you come up with your style?

CB: When I was little my babysitter had meticulously drawn line drawings. They were black and white done with ink pens.

I like how it tricks the eye a little bit and I’ve been copying that style ever since. I developed my own version with swirlies and my husband has encouraged me to keep going in that direction.

UL: What do you like about Butte

County?

CB: I’m enamored with all the trees. I

love the canopy of trees over the streets.

The other thing I love about Chico is that it’s a college town and that brings lots of diversity. We have a multicultural town with music, art, nightlife, theatre, poetry readings, I love the whole culture. I feel like I fit in because I tend to be eclectic.

UL: What advice do you have for young artists?

CB: Make art every day and don’t ever stop making art. If you are an artist, you will make art and nothing can stop you from doing it; not a job, not having kids, not life. If you are a true artist I think you have to do art. It’s like eating food.

If you’re going to be an artist, don’t stop making art. It is like an addiction, but I think it’s a healthy thing to be addicted to.

UL: How did you decide to become an artist?

CB: Several of many conversations I have had with my Uncle Mark included a revelation. I’d have conversations with

UPGRADED LIVING | DECEMBER 2012 | UPGRADEDLIVING.COM

him and say “I want to be a musician, but I don’t like to practice.” Or, “I want to be a writer,” and I’d start to write a book but get bored after 10 pages. He told me “If you’re a writer, you’d be writing and you couldn’t not do it. When you figure out what you want to do it will be something you have to do.” Finally I realized.. “Oh, i’m an artist!”

UL: What inspires you in the world?

CB: I love people who give of themselves.

It could be anything from monetary to a gift of writing to the gift of wisdom. If someone has something genuine to give to the world, that’s what inspires me.

UL: What’s the most beautiful thing you’ve ever seen?

CB: Well the first thing that popped in my head was the Grand Canyon and the second thing that popped in my head was my children when they were first born.

UL: What’s your favorite color?

CB: Purple. Yellow is the most interesting

color. There’s no other color like yellow.

Though ultimately I love all the colors and I feel like there’s a lack of color in the world like there’s not enough colors. I’m always grabbing for colors that don’t exist.

I wish I could paint with infrared and ultraviolet. That’s how I feel about color.

UL: What is your favorite quote?

CB: “This is the way the world ends, this

is the way the world ends, this is the way the world ends not with a bang but with a whimper.” T.S. Eliot

photography by Erin Wenham

Arts

Calendar of Events DEC 1ST

DECEMBER 5

Take Us Home for the Holidays Adoption Drive Butte Humane Society - All day

DECEMBER 7

37th Annual Christmas Faire Silver Dollar Fairgrounds, Chico 10:00am

Sweet Honey in the Rock Laxson Auditorium, CSU Chico - 7:30pm

Torres Shelter Christmas Tree Auction and Family Festival Chico Masonic Family Center, Chico - 6:00pm

Glorious Sounds of the Season Harlen Adams Theater, CSU Chico - 7:30pm

Theater on the Ridge: Hooray for Hollywood - Nunset Blvd Theater on the Ridge, Paradise - 7:30pm

Second Annual Lucero Olive Oil Winter Crush Lucero Olive Oil Mill, Corning - 10:00am 4:00pm

Chico Certified Farmer’s Market Downtown Chico (Wall Street) - 7:30am

Comedy Pet Theater Laxson Auditorium, Chico - 7:30pm Community Tree Lighting Downtown Chico City Plaza, 5:30pm

DECEMBER 8

Chico Theater Company Presents: A Christmas Carol (Opening Night) Chico Theater Company, Chico 7:30pm

The 33rd Bah! Humbug! Festival of Crafts Chico - 10:00am (see UpgradedLiving.com for more info)

DEC 2ND

DECEMBER 13

Stansbury House Victorian White Christmas Event Stansbury House, Chico 1:00pm - 8:00pm

DECEMBER 4

Danu: Christmas in Ireland Laxson Auditorium, Chico - 7:30pm

Nutcracker (Opening Night) Laxson Auditorium, CSU Chico - 7:30pm

DECEMBER 14

North State Symphony: Experience the Season St. John the Baptist Church, Chico - 7:30pm

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Places within a short drive of the Northern Valley Getaways

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UPGRADED LIVING | DECEMBER 2012 | UPGRADEDLIVING.COM