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Our Temporary Move to Redding, CA, Resulted in a Permanent Address Change

Updated: October 18, 2024
The following summarizes a third-party article written about Shasta County, California. Full article linked below.

Amy Brown and Damon Magaña’s story is a testament to Redding, California’s ability to turn temporary residents into lifelong community members. Initially viewing the move as a short-term solution during the pandemic, the couple, both tennis and pickleball coaches, found a new home and business opportunity in Redding. Together, they founded DNA Club at Riverview Country Club, offering tennis and pickleball lessons, clinics, and leagues. What began as a trial move became a thriving personal and professional journey.

The couple’s connection began in San Francisco, where Amy was the director of junior tennis and Damon was a teaching professional. The pandemic disrupted their city lives, prompting them to explore alternatives. After a three-month road trip across the U.S. and no new destinations sparking their interest, they landed in Redding, Amy’s hometown. They embraced the opportunity to revitalize the courts at Riverview Golf & Country Club, transforming it into a vibrant hub for social and athletic activities. Damon reflected on their success: “I’m most proud of taking a club that was not using their courts at all and turning it into a lively, energetic place.”

Pickleball, a sport they discovered during their road trip, has become central to their business. While their expertise lies in tennis, pickleball’s rapid growth and accessibility made it a natural addition. Damon acknowledged the sport’s appeal: “One of the things I love about pickleball is it has a low barrier to entry. Most people who are reasonably athletic can pick it up quickly and have a blast.”

Building DNA Club wasn’t without challenges, but Amy and Damon credit their resourcefulness and the supportive entrepreneurial community in Redding for their success. Amy took full advantage of local resources, including the Women’s Business Center, chamber of commerce events, and business meetups. Damon highlighted their involvement with Startup Redding, describing it as an invaluable networking and support tool for local entrepreneurs.

“Startup Redding is a meetup for entrepreneurs who are trying to grow their businesses or get a business started. We use it as a networking tool, an idea resource and to make friends.”

— Damon Magaña

Redding’s business environment, with its absence of corporate competition and focus on balanced work-life values, played a significant role in their decision to stay. Amy appreciates how the community genuinely supports local businesses: “Our community cares about your success in all areas.”

The couple also values the lifestyle that Redding offers. For Amy, returning to her roots brought a newfound appreciation for the area’s natural beauty and sense of safety. She noted the joys of living in a community surrounded by mountains, lakes, and hiking opportunities, as well as the simple pleasures of seeing the stars or visiting a pumpkin patch.

Their advice to budding entrepreneurs emphasizes perseverance, adaptability, and utilizing available resources. Damon summed it up: “If you really want it, don’t give up. Be adaptable… Realize that you’re not alone in this endeavor, and there are resources to help.”

“I love being a business owner here. You don’t feel like you’re competing with corporations.”

— Amy Brown

Read the full article for more information here: https://livability.com/ca/redding/love-where-you-live/our-temporary-move-to-redding-ca-resulted-in-a-permanent-address-change/

Photo Courtesy of Amy Brown and Damon Magaña

About Shasta Economic Development Corporation
Shasta Economic Development Corporation is a 501(c)(3) public benefit corporation focused on growing, diversifying and maintaining a balanced economy, leading to more economic stability and sustainability for Shasta County.

Media Contacts:
Erik Janiszewski / Erik@ShastaEDC.org
Rebecca Baer / Rebecca@ShastaEDC.org

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