Issue: May 09, 2019
Morning, readers,
So, how is Chico doing since the Camp Fire? Not great, it turns out. While we don't wish to diminish the plight of those directly affected by the deadly disaster, six months after the fact, we felt it was appropriate to check in on the secondary effects. Since Chico absorbed the largest number of displaced residents—19,000 people!—it's naturally dealing with some unexpected impacts, like infrastructure overload and a widespread lack of available housing. In this week's feature package, we aim to look at the biggest of those impacts as a way to propel dialogue about how to creatively deal with it all.
In other news: A bill going through the state Legislature could make it possible for Adventist Health Feather River Hospital to reopen its emergency room on the Ridge—without a hospital facility attached; the Chico City Council discusses a hodgepodge of items, from climate change to the public safety budget; and the Blue Room's latest play tackles the world's oldest profession.
If you haven't heard: The CN&R is gearing up to host Butte County Wine Week! It'll be June 7-16 and we're hoping to get the word out to all the wineries, restaurants, bars and retailers that specialize in wine (and its many different forms, from sake to champagne) to hold special events that week and share their details with us. Then we'll put 'em all together in a Wine Week calendar and special issue. Go to buttecountywineweek.com for more info—or email wineweek@newsreview.com.
Cheers!
Meredith J. Cooper, managing editor
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Secondary effects
Chico’s new normal six months after the Camp Fire.
This article was published on 05.09.19
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Finances and economy: City, businesses struggle with Camp Fire fallout
Chico city manager and Chamber of Commerce officials discuss challenges of population growth, fleeing workforce.
This article was published on 05.09.19
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Housing: Already tight market compounded
Chico’s supply of housing and rentals further constricted by sudden need for liveable spaces.
This article was published on 05.09.19
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Public works: Wastewater treatment plant inundated with increased flows, workload
The levels today are what city administrators expected to see decades into the future.
This article was published on 05.09.19
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Education: Coming together for the kids
Chico district and charter schools find space for those displaced—and await long-term decisions.
This article was published on 05.09.19
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Roads: Increased traffic compounds condition of deteriorating streets
City staff seeking funding to make repairs due to disaster.
This article was published on 05.09.19
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Care urgency
North State legislators push Senate Bill 156 to allow Adventist Health Feather River a standalone emergency room as it considers its future in Paradise.
This article was published on 05.09.19
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Another long night
Climate action commission created, additional firefighter recommended.
This article was published on 05.09.19
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PG&E suggests wildfire fund
If approved by courts, $105 million could be earmarked for California fire victims.
This article was published on 05.09.19
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Local papers honored
Chico newspapers pick up awards in statewide contest.
This article was published on 05.09.19
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BEC director departs
Executive director is taking on a new role at Vina monastery.
This article was published on 05.09.19
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Bird’s-eye view
Altacal Audubon turns to a long-time volunteer, Mary Muchowski, as its first executive director.
This article was published on 05.09.19
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School refuge
Calming rooms, supported by the Camp Fire Relief Fund, provide traumatized students a place to reset when feeling overwhelmed.
This article was published on 05.09.19
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Chico needs a lifeline
Our community’s unprecedented growth presents major challenges that cannot be ignored.
This article was published on 05.09.19
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A survivor’s plea for compassion, patience
Those affected by the Camp Fire need support and time to heal.
This article was published on 05.09.19
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Above and beyond
Telling the stories that matter and hauling in journalism awards to boot.
This article was published on 05.09.19
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Creating wonder
Oscar Magaña Jr. offers Hollywood expertise, multimedia services for aspiring stars, athletes, businesses and special events.
This article was published on 05.09.19
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Wine Week preview
North Sierra Wine Trail provides a glimpse at our fruitful region; plus, Lulus set to expand.
This article was published on 05.09.19
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Same as we ever were
Local playwright explores roles of the sexes through the lens of the oldest profession.
This article was published on 05.09.19
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Parts as great as the sum
Three songwriters shine on new The Wild Reeds album.
This article was published on 05.09.19
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Desperate in the Heartland
A sisterly bond and two ‘deftly nuanced performances’ at the heart of this modern-day western.
This article was published on 05.09.19