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MAGAZINE: April 2009 ISSUE

Swing Into Spring

April 01, 2009

Though we could use some April showers (fill those lakes!), car enthusiasts are crossing their fingers for sunny skies for Kool April Nites. We salute the grassroots endeavor that was dreamed up by a couple of car-loving guys and has evolved into one of the North State’s preeminent events in the ensuing 20 years. The first show drew 238 cars; this year, more than 2,000 car buffs will converge upon the Redding Convention Center. The real winners? The nonprofits that have received Kool April Nites’ $300,000 in donations.

Spring is a time for renewal, and the Children, Too! program at Shasta Women’s Refuge helps toddlers through teens envision a safe, peaceful future by channeling their creativity. Clay, glue, tissue paper – the medium doesn’t matter for this “meaningful art.” It’s the process that makes a difference. You can check out artwork by these spirited survivors and other North State children during 2nd Saturday Art Hop (see a complete map in the back of the magazine).

Optimism is also a central theme for a group of gutsy North State residents who are afflicted with multiple sclerosis. The Hope 4 MS support group channels humor, positive energy and fellowship to make the most out of life. “We’re not a bunch of woe-is-me’s, sitting around talking about death,” says co-facilitator Robyn Embree.

Certainly, life has its share of uphill climbs – and Ron Fritzke is delighted to tackle them on two wheels. This power-climber pushes his bike beyond its limits by sheer strength, showing each of us that sometimes all you need is determination to push yourself over that hill.

That enterprising spirit is precisely what prompted the Cottonwood Watershed Group to establish Shasta County’s first year-round farmers market. Executive Director Brynn Nolan helps area farmers get the most out of their land without spending a lot – and by using natural methods of farming to keep the 603,000-acre watershed healthy. Another local gem is Lema Ranch, a birding oasis inside the Redding urban landscape. Originally a working mule ranch, this stretch of diverse landscape provides habitat for numerous bird species. Stroll along four miles of paved trails, and traverse the five ponds that are ideal for catching a glimpse of waterfowl and marsh species.

So grab your camera, a picnic lunch and an umbrella (just in case) – there’s much to do and see this month in this amazing place we call home. Enjoy!

Featured Content for April 2009