Magazine: August 2011 Issue
Free Falling
Published: 27-Jul-2011
It might not feel like it outside, but the lazy days of summer are wrapping up. Let’s make the most of every last ray of sunshine.Meet Styles Larsen, the owner of Shasta Base Camp in Mount Shasta. He’s spent 20 years fine-tuning the art of local adventure in backcountry skiing, mountain biking, rock climbing and more. He’ll inspire you to explore the rocky playground called Castle Crags.
If you prefer sky-high adventures, hang gliders and paragliders have soared above the Hat Creek Valley for decades. Sky sailors say there’s nowhere quite like the Hat Creek Rim. “It’s a magical place, not like anywhere else in world,” says Redding’s Chad Glissmeyer. We’ll give you a peek from below the wings.
There’s still time to pencil in another excursion before summer ends – our third Weekend Getaways story will give you hints for touring the Napa Valley with friends. Wineries, golf courses, outdoor adventures and exquisite dining options make it an ideal destination for a double or triple date. We’ve also got some road trip tips for exploring the Volcanic Legacy Scenic Byway.
Closer to home, consider a visit to the awe-inspiring Northern California Veterans Museum & Heritage Center, which features mementos and artifacts from all branches of military service and all periods of conflict in which Americans have served.
Inspiration is all around us. Tommy Corey, a young man with a camera and a compassionate heart, is the force behind the Self-Worth Project, which illustrates how fears and insecurities lie within all of us, and how it’s up to us to care for each other. Not even a year old, his remarkable project has drawn worldwide participation.
Feeling blues? So is 21st century Mississippi bluesman Grady Champion, who’s part of a new generation of blues artists emerging from R&B and hip-hop backgrounds to rediscover America’s musical roots. He’ll perform the last show of MarketFest’s season on Aug. 11.
And don’t forget to join us for Enjoy Movies in the Park. In August, this free, family-friendly event moves to the Redding Convention Center lawn, and donations benefit Help, Inc. Bring your lawnchair or a blanket.
Squeeze every last minute of joy out of this sunshiny season!
