Leaving with love

When Lori Powers decided to open a business in Chico 26 years ago, she couldn’t have predicted the role she would play in the community, in the fabric of downtown, and in the individual lives of so many people. She and her business partner, Becky Shadd, opened The Upper Crust Bakery & Cafe and ran it together until six years ago, when Shadd retired and Powers took the reins. Over the years, they established the business into a downtown staple, a longtime local favorite for pastries, coffee, fresh sandwiches and salads, its famous black bean chili and, of course, custom cakes. This year, it’s Powers’ turn to step away. She’ll be retiring Dec. 31, handing over the keys to longtime employees Jeff and Shelby Plummer. Stop in at 130 Main St. and wish her well.

What got you into this business?

It started with a conversation with Becky Shadd, who had a business downtown already. And this place came up for sale a short time afterward, and I always had an interest in working with food. I had no formal training, but I was always interested, and I just thought that we could make a go of it. Be careful the conversations you have, because you never know where they’re going to lead—to wonderful, wonderful adventures.

What prompted you to decide to leave?

A combination of things. One is that I have loved coming to work these 26 years. Even when I know I’m in for a rough day, I love coming to work. I always wanted to leave feeling that way about the business I have so loved. I’ve witnessed others in my life who maybe overstayed their best time, and I want to leave and have that feeling of missing it because it was fun. Also, I feel really thrilled about the succession of the business because Jeff and Shelby Plummer, who have been working here for the last few years, have wanted the business, and it’s the perfect time for them. It’s their time to make a good run at it.

What will you miss most?

The people. And the adrenaline rush. There’s something about when this place is busy and it’s a little chaotic—it’s one of those environments that’s terrible for some people and for those of us who thrive on that kind of energy, it’s the bee’s knees. I have run into wonderful people—who I’ve worked with, and who have come in as customers. I’ve always believed that the reason we’re in business is for the customers. I’ve had such wonderful conversations over the years. I’ve made lifelong friends—how lucky is that?

What’s next?

Just to enjoy where I live at a different pace sounds pretty divine right now. I want to have adventures, road trips, open-ended across the States, and to visit other locales on our planet. I think about volunteering. I’ve been able to give to the community through the business, but I haven’t always been available to be there in person. I look forward to being a better participant in that way.