Christmas in Berthoud 2019

e t a r b e l e C AS

CHRISTM IN BERTHOUD

2019

BWS

BERTHOUD WEEKLY SURVEYOR “Covering all the angles in the Garden Spot” © Berthoud Weekly Surveyor November 28, 2019

Merry Christmas & Happy New Year from all of us at the Surveyor Jo Buckridge Caroline Creager Mark French Katie Harris Becky Hemmann Rudy Hemmann Dan Karpiel

Heidi Kerr-Schlaefer Kristine Leonard Bob McDonnell Aaron Reynolds Amber McIver-Traywick Diane Wells Shelley Widhalm

CELEBRATING CHRISTMAS IN BERTHOUD • 2019 Celebrating Christmas in Berthoud© 2019 is published in Berthoud, Colo., by the Berthoud Weekly Surveyor. The publisher reserves the right to edit, classify or reject any advertising or news copy. Liability for any newspaper error in an advertisement shall not exceed the cost of space occupied by error. The publishers assume no liability for any advertising which is not published for any cause. The publisher assume absolutely no obligation or responsibility for subject matter in copy placed by its advertisers or their agents.

It is also understood that the advertiser and the agency placing such advertising jointly and severally agree to indemnify Berthoud Weekly Surveyor, LLC against all expense, loss or damage sustained by reason of printing such copy.

Subscription rates are $37 per year to residents of the 80513 zip code, online subscribers, and $47 per year to zip codes other than 80513.

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440 Mountain Ave., Berthoud 970-532-2852

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Index The advertisers in this magazine are businesses that support the Berthoud community in many ways. Please support them with your patronage.

Christmas coloring contest ...........................................3 How to create a durable gingerbread house ................4 Horseback carolers will take to the streets .................5 Ten unique ideas for hostess gifts ................................6 Holiday movie guide .....................................................8 Making a list — 2019 unusual gifts ........................... 12 My trip to the Holy Land ............................................ 15 Top gifts for ‘Tweens’ this season ...............................16 Update your Christmas tree with these trends..........18 Leftover turkey recipes ................................................20 Black Friday Survival Guide... ....................................22 Local non-profit seeking donations to help families...23 Outdoors gift ideas — a reflection on the season........24

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A drawing will be held for 2 Gift Baskets — 1 for ages 6 & under and 1 for ages 7 -12.

Thank you to our sponsors: Berthoud Drug, Brick Oven Pizza, Glass of Art, Metropolitan Theatres (Loveland)

Christmas Coloring Book

Contest Entry Form

Child’s name: Age: Parent’s name: Home address: City: State: Zip: Parent’s contact phone: Parent’s email:

Contest open to children ages 6 & under and 7 - 12. All entries must be received

by Dec. 16, 2019. Contest entries will not be returned. Contest entries may be displayed or published in print and online by this newspaper. Children of newspaper and sponsor employees are not eligible to win. Winners’ parents will be notified by phone and email December 16, 2019.

One entry per child.

Mail or hand deliver coloring page with completed entry form to: Berthoud Weekly Surveyor Christmas Coloring Contest 440 Mountain Ave. Berthoud, CO 80513

CELEBRATING CHRISTMAS IN BERTHOUD • 2019

How to create a durable gingerbread house

Special to the Surveyor Gingerbread cookies and houses are one of the many symbols of the holiday season, alongside Christmas trees and twinkling lights. In fact, few confections symbolize the holidays more so than gingerbread.

Many a child (or a child at heart) has spent hours carefully trying to create decorative gingerbread houses. Although gingerbread recipes span various cultures, gingerbread houses originated in 16th century Germany. The fairy tale “Hansel and Gretel” helped solidify the popularity of gingerbread, which became part of Christmas traditions.

Even though gingerbread houses can be fun to make, there’s no denying it can be exacting work — especially for those who strive for perfection. Prepackaged kits attempt to take some of the guesswork out of the equation, but those who are crafting from scratch can employ these tips as they build their gingerbread houses.

• Go for form and not flavor. Few gingerbread houses ever get eaten, so focus on finding a dough that will bake up rock hard as opposed to one that tastes good.

• Get the right icing texture. Pastry artist Catherine Beddall says royal icing is the preferred “glue” to adhere gingerbread pieces. Beddall says icing should be thick like peanut butter and not runny.

• Mind the dough. Do not roll out the gingerbread dough too thin or it may become brittle after being cooked.

Always cut out shapes before the gingerbread is baked. Let the baked pieces sit overnight to cool completely before using them to build.

• Patience is key. Allow the icing to dry for at least a couple of hours after adhering each piece and before moving and handling the house, says Beddall. Work in stages so that individual items can be decorated and allowed to dry. Then the walls can be put together, followed by the roof pieces.

• Kids likely will need help. Children may not have the patience or steadiness to handle complete gingerbread construction. They can decorate the separate pieces of the house while the components are laying flat, which is easier for kids.

Adults can do the main assembly later on.

• Utilize a template. Free-handing may not be easy. Cut out templates using cardboard or posterboard for various gingerbread pieces.

One of the most important tips is to have fun. Don’t take gingerbread house making too seriously as a novice. Rather, enjoy the experience and the centuries-old tradition.

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Horseback carolers will take to the streets of Berthoud this December

By Katie Harris The Surveyor For over two decades, members of Larimer County Horseman’s Association have delighted Berthoud residents with their Christmas caroling on horseback.

This year will be no exception, as the group is gearing up once again to take to the streets of downtown.

The caroling, which began in the early 1990s, originally took place during Christmas in Berthoud. Due to the cancelation of that event, the caroling will occur in conjunction with SnowFest this year on Saturday, Dec. 14. The group will gather at Turner Middle School at 10 a.m. and depart at 11 a.m.

“We’ll set off from Turner and end at Massachusetts Avenue and Seventh Street as they’re giving out the awards for the sculpture, and we’ll carol there,” explained Templeton. “Once done caroling we’ll continue riding through the neighborhood in a big circle back to Turner.”

Although caroling will primarily take place at Courtesy photo Fickel Park, the group will stop as they pass pedestriMiniature horses decked out for Christmas caroling during ans to sing a carol or two as well. the event in 2018.

“We sing traditional carols,” said Templeton. “Ones that are fairly easy to sing. We don’t rehearse, but this year we are trying to get background music, so that will be an experiment.”

According to Templeton, of the association’s 65 household memberships across Larimer County, several of which are from Berthoud, as well as a few from surrounding counties, the group typically sees 20 to 30 members come out for caroling.

“People are invited to dress themselves and their horses up,” she said. “You’ll hear some jingling bells.

We’ll also be pulling a trailer with hay bales for those who can’t bring their horses but want to participate, so we’ll have people riding in the hay wagon.”

While Templeton warned caroling will be canceled if the roads are icy or unsafe for the horses, she said the group is looking forward to continuing their tradition, down to the very last song, “We Wish You a Merry Christmas.”

Along with caroling, the group holds several other events each year for its members, including ride outs, evacuation training, educational meetings, picnics and parties. Anyone interested in joining Larimer County Horseman’s Association can visit www.larimerhorseman.org to find out more, or attend one of the group’s meetings listed on the site, which are always free and open to the public.

“We have a fun group and we 6+-*like to share our love of horses,” she said. “We certainly want to invite other horse people to join us.”

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Ten unique ideas for hostess gifts this holiday season

By Shelley Widhalm The Surveyor With the holidays quickly approaching, parties seem to fill the list — but showing up empty-handed can feel a little Grinch-like.

Bringing wine, chocolate or flowers are kindly gestures, but the gifts are generic and, really, can be given at any time of the year and for any occasion. So if you want to add a little sparkle to what you bring to the door, try something different for a thoughtful, stylish host or hostess gift.

Pick the essential kitchen items that can make throwing the next party a little easier (think serving trays, utensils and pie pans). Or opt for a coffee-table book that can be set out right away for guests to peruse. Holidayscented hand soap or lotion can be put in the bathroom, or holiday tea towels or hand or kitchen towels can provide that extra set when there’s more work to be done or an unexpected spill.

This list of gifts can be affordable yet fun and is a great way to thank the hostess for organizing the party, doing the decorating, cooking, serving and, of course, the cleaning up before and after. The idea is to handpick something that shows the hostess you thought ahead and put some planning into your show of gratitude — or, if you forget, you can always mail or drop off the gift later.

Here are some additional ideas of great hostess gifts that are on the top lists for 2019: 1. Recipe book: Turn a regular journal or recipe book into a recipe journal by adding your own crafting, or buy one that is already made for the occasion.

The journal can be a place to collect and organize dinner party menus, keep track of ingredients lists, schedule out prep times, and include tips and tricks for favorite recipes.

2. Wooden bookmarks: Buy a set of handmade bookmarks that add a special flair for that coffee-table book. The bookmarks can have inspirational sayings, designs and images. Popular subjects for the books can include travel hotspots, wine country or coffee farm tours and other food and beverage points of interest, and a focus on arts and crafts from history to the process of creation.

3. Wine purifier: A wine purifier uses what is called selective sulfite capture technology and an adjustable wine aerator to help improve the taste of wine by making it fuller and more robust.

4. Cheese board and knives: Cheese boards

typically consist of a slate or wooden tray in a square, rectangular or round shape, but something extra special is a composite agate cheese board, made of stone that varies in size, color and appearance. If you include the cheese, be sure to select three to five varieties from different groups, such as a cheddar, gouda, brie, blue and washed rind; and add some extras, like dried fruits, jams and olives. To go all out, include a set of cheese knives and slicers especially designed for cutting soft or hard cheeses.

5. Honey dipper and honey: Give a honey dipper, a kitchen utensil typically made of turned wood with equally-spaced grooves that can be dipped into a container, twirled to prevent dripping and spread onto food, like bread, biscuits and cheese.

There even is a honey made especially for cheese,

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spicy honey, and honey made with a variety of floral scents.

6. Unusual kitchen tools: Try a nacho grater, a pyramid that can shred, slice and grate, or a tortilleria kit with a cast-iron press to make homemade tortillas.

7. Stainless steel pitcher: This is great for serving and keeping drinks extra cool, and it can hold coffee, tea and mixed drinks while looking sleek and trendy.

8. An apron: Bring fun to the old-fashioned apron, picking a favorite color or theme or something holiday related. Aprons are great for protecting clothes from heat and spills while also making sure the party outfit isn’t wrinkled or soiled. Wearing an apron can help a hostess look efficient rather than a throwback to the 1950s, plus it can be super convenient if there is a pocket or two.

9. A homemade box: Turn a wooden box into something for recipes, loose leaf tea or chocolates, and be sure to fill it with a few sample items.

10. Local art: Bring a mini-painting or a set of note cards created by a local artist focused on the hostess’s interests, like a still life of something in the kitchen or a favorite landscape or animal.

Other ideas that are popular for the 2019 holiday season include a themed spoon rest, a candle holder, a set of coasters or placemats, a cupcake stand, a cordless electric wine-bottle opener, a wall-mounted Above: Cyl Home Hurricane bottle opener, a favorite Candleholder, Left: Verve plant in a homemade Culture Artisan Tortilleria Kit the Hanerdun Polka Dot pot, and a set of cof- and Apron. fee cups, spreaders or wineglasses.

The ideas are festive, fun and distinctive for personalized gifts that say thank you in a memorable way. The thank you will mean a great deal, since it takes work to host a party, from just a few guests to a full house. Why just settle for flowers or the basics?

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“The Rise of Skywalker,” and “1917” lead impressive lineup — holiday movie guide 2019

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hanksgiving through New Year’s Day is considered one of the prime times of the year for new releases at the box office. We are now less than two months away from closing out a decade, as well as a year in Hollywood that has delivered several high-quality films.

What movies should you go see at Thanksgiving?

Christmas? New Year’s Day? Here is your holiday movie guide ...

“Frozen 2” (Nov. 22) “Frozen 2” is the long-anticipated sequel to the 2013 animated musical, a commercial and critical box-office success. Fans have been waiting nearly six years for the follow-up, as Disney has been taking its time carefully crafting a new story. Directors Chris Buck and Jennifer Lee return to co-captain the production, which is always a good sign to have the original creative team.

In the sequel, Elsa attempts to seek the truth as to why she was born with magical powers. It leads her on a quest with pals Anna, Kristoff, Sven and Olaf to discover the truth. “Frozen 2” features the voices of Kristen Bell, Idina Menzel and Josh Gad. “A Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood” (Nov. 22) Tom Hanks stars as a remarkable resemblance to Mr. Rogers in the new Thanksgiving film, “A Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood.” This heartwarming film is the perfect picture for the family holiday, as it explores the important concepts of kindness and forgiveness.

Hanks is one of the heavyweights in Hollywood, arguably the most iconic and influential actor of the last couple of decades, and looks to put together another incredible performance in the biopic.

It is sure to give Hanks some Oscar consideration come February, along with director Marielle Heller.

“Knives Out” (Nov. 27) “Knives Out” is a thrilling new murder mystery told on the big screen, as opposed to the stage where the genre is more frequent. The classic “whodunnit” scenario introduces a star-studded cast at the estate of Harlan Thrombey (Christopher Plummer). The cast also includes Daniel

Craig, Chris Evans, Jamie Lee Curtis and Michael Shannon.

Surveyor It is a classic ode to Agatha Columnist Christie and should serve well as a lighthearted, modern day murder mystery. The dark comedy has a lot of potential and is easily one of the more unique stories coming out this holiday season.

“Queen & Slim” (Nov. 27) If you’re a movie goer who likes to read in advance what websites have to say about new releases like IMDB.com Aaron and RottenTomatoes. com, then surely you are Reynolds excited about the upcoming “Queen & Slim.”

Another highly praised Thanksgiving weekend release, the modern “Bonnie & Clyde” story gets a twist with two principal black characters.

Daniel Kaluuya (“Black Panther”) stars alongside Jodie Turner-Smith in what is likely an early favorite for the Oscars and is going to receive plenty of critical buzz. If you like

9 Berthoud Weekly Surveyor CELEBRATING CHRISTMAS IN BERTHOUD • 2019 The conclusion to the new “Star thrillers/dramas that are more high-brow, Wars” trilogy reaches its epic climax “Queen & Slim” needs to exist on your this Christmas. J.J. Abrams is directwatch list.

“Jumanji: The Next Level” (Dec. 13) ing, which is a really good sign, as The second “Jumanji” is a break from Abrams is one of the best in the busimany of the serious, emotional dramas ness at creating thrilling science-fiction that will come out over Thanksgiving movies that also incorporate timely weekend. The sequel includes all the cast action and drama. from the 2017 remake featuring Dwayne The film not only concludes the new Johnson, Kevin Hart and Jack Black. series, but the entire nine-part saga Danny DeVito and Danny Glover also join which all began in 1977. It will unthe ensemble in “The Next Level.” doubtedly shatter every single box-office Johnson and Hart are a solid comedic record known to man, even if fans are team and the action-adventure will serve irritated with how secretive the maras a mid-December layover before getketing campaign has been revealing new details about the project. Expect a ting into the teeth of Christmas and New payoff that matches the unparalleled Year’s centered releases at the box office. expectations for such a monumental “Bombshell” (Dec. 20) epic.

They say it is wise to keep politics away “Spies in Disguise” (Dec. 25) from the Thanksgiving and Christmas The last time Will Smith got a CGI family dinner table, but what about the makeover it didn’t go over so well theaters? “Bombshell” adds a little controversy and flair to the holidays. It is based on the sexual (“Gemini Man”) yet the actor has reinvented himself harassment scandal involving Fox News CEO Roger Ailes. through the latest technology coming out of Hollywood.

In addition to his makeover in the upcoming animated Charlize Theron looks uncannily like Megyn Kelly in spy-comedy, Smith also had a third altered representation the preview, and the film also stars Margot Robbie and this year in “Aladdin.”

Nicole Kidman. John Lithgow will assume the role of “Spies in Disguise” is all kinds of wacky yet is the ideal the controversial Roger Ailes. Kate McKinnon and ConChristmas release for the entire family. The irreverent nie Britton are also attached to the project in supporting humor will make it an easy watch and should do well at roles. the box office even if it must unfairly compete with a new “Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker” (Dec. 20) “Star Wars” and WWI epic.

“Just Mercy” (Dec. 25) Michael B. Jordan is one of the hottest stars in Hollywood right now who has impressive credentials, including “Black Panther” and “Creed II.” Jordan will star alongside the equally talented Jamie Foxx and Brie Larson in a legal drama that is based on a true story.

“Just Mercy” is based on the life of Walter McMillian, who with the help of a raw yet determined young defense attorney, appeals a questionable murder conviction. “Just Mercy” has a talented enough ensemble to present a very hardhitting emotional drama.

“1917” (Dec. 25) While “Star Wars” will get most of the attention at Christmas, the best movie of the year could potentially end up going to “1917.”

The WWI masterpiece is an early favorite for “Best Picture” because of the way it is shot. The film will reportedly resemble a single, uninterrupted take.

The innovative method for capturing the film is designed to feel like “real-time,” evoking the intensity, pressure and challenges of surviving the bloody Great War. The film is directed by Roger Deakins (who already has an Oscar under his belt) and features a talented cast including Benedict Cumberbatch, Colin Firth and Mark Strong. If you are only going to see one movie over the holidays, make it “1917.”

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Making a list — 2019 unusual gifts I t’s hard to believe another year has passed and it’s time for the annual unusual Christmas gifts. In the past this list has ranged from the clever, the offbeat, the unique, and the ones that make you wonder why. Maybe in all this you Surveyor will find the perfect Columnist gift for that hard-toshop-for person.

Let’s start out with a “why would I want that gift?” This year it’s the candy cane. This long-time candy staple for Christmas evolved from peppermint flavor to a host of other flavors. This year the flavor is pickle.

Bob The ad for the candy McDonnell on amazon.com says “peppermint is so last year.” I liked last year.

If you need a good gag gift or something for the white-elephant exchange, you may purchase a pack of six pickles canes (each five inches in length) for $6 at candywarehouse.com.

Many on your holiday shopping list may be television watchers. If they are big fans of older shows, check out fantasyfloorplans.com. This site offers an “expertly hand drawn” floor plan of television shows like “I Love Lucy,” “Friends,” “Frazier,” “Seinfeld,” or the office at Dunder-Mifflin from “The Office.” Pricing is $36 to $85 depending on the size of the print.

Going back even farther than old sitcom reruns,

maybe someone you are shopping for remembers the old View-Master. It came with disks with pictures you looked at through the plastic viewer.

This item has been updated. Now you can get a viewer but create your own disks of your pictures. For just under $30, you get a cute viewer and a code to get a disk with seven of your images on it.

Additional reels (disks) will set you back $14.95.

This item is available at uncommongoods/product/create-your-ownreel-viewer.

This year many of the gifts found in my online search deal with personalization, like the View-Master above.

Turns out you can also customize socks. A site called facesocks.sockclub.com lets you start by choosing the background design/color. Then upload a picture of your face. If you are too modest, make it the face of a loved one. The site also says they will put

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your dog’s face on the socks, but I am not sure the dog will appreciate it. The going price for socks with a face (human or otherwise) is $24 a pair.

Switching to high tech, one item popular this year is for your cell phone.

The device looks like an oversized cell phone case.

It cleans your phone with ultraviolet (UV-C) light.

This “patented and clinically proven” unit called Phone Soap appeared on the television show “Shark Tank.” Find out more at amazon.com and be prepared to spend $79.95 to clean up your life — or at least your phone.

How about something for the person who has anything? In this case, it’s land on the moon. Opt

for one to 20 acres. The website lunarland. com/moonland says “Lunar Land company is the world’s most recognized Celestial Real Estate Agency and has been selling land on Golden Girls floor plan. the moon for decades.” Your gift includes a lunar land map and lunar land deed. So, there you go.

Well, I started with a sweet gift, so I will end with one. This one is an extra-large Snickers candy bar.

When I say large, I mean a full pound of Snicker goodness. Around Halloween Snickers offers bags of tiny, bite-sized minis. They label these as “fun size.” I think a whopping pound of candy bar is more of a fun size.

Like other items, this gift is on amazon.com. It costs $10, which works out to $.63 per ounce.

Happy shopping again in 2019.

Home for the holidays Special to the Surveyor Christmas carols and festive songs help make the holidays complete by setting the mood for the festivities to come.

Songs resonate differently with people during the holiday season. For example, some celebrants find certain holiday tunes or lyrics especially poignant. Those who might be missing home or planning on visiting friends and relatives who live far away during the holiday season often find the words to “(There’s No Place Like) Home for the Holidays,” are an accurate portrayal of the sentiments of holiday traveling. Composed by Robert Allen, with lyrics by Al Stillman, “(There’s No Place Like) Home for the Holidays” was published in 1954.

The best-known recordings of the song are by Perry Como, who recorded it twice — once in 1954 and then again in 1959 with a different musical arrangement.

The first version reached #8 on the Billboard magazine chart in the United States.

The Carpenters recorded another popular version of the song for their 1984 album, “An OldFashioned Christmas.”

Nora Jones and Cyndi Lauper also recorded a duet version of the song in 2011.

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My trip to the Holy Land

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Surveyor Columnist

hen my dad fell ill earlier this year, he had a trip in which they were found. It was crazy to me to actually be there. planned to Israel with his church, St. John the We continued our path into Evangelist Catholic Church in Loveland. When the underground dungeon Jesus he discovered he would be unable to make the trip, he was lowered into the night before sent me to walk the path of Jesus for him. I was honored his crucifixion. The final day we and excited, but a little nervous to go to the Middle East. walked the Via Dolorosa, Latin for But, once I got there I was so excited to see and experithe “sorrowful way,” and the proence this wonderful gift I was given.

The first day we started out at cessional route through the Church of the Nativity in Beththe old city believed to be Diane the path Jesus walked lehem, located in the Palestinian Wells on the way to be cruciWest Bank where, after a threehour wait, we were able to see and fied. The Stations of the touch the spot tradition says Jesus Cross, which are a series of images depicting was born. A church was built over Jesus on the route are accompanied by specific the spot, and a second church was prayers – you walk through the Lion’s Gate and built surrounding the first, so you the starting point of the Via have to climb down into the small Dolorosa, stopping at each alcove to see the spot. It was so image. The stations are well emotional to be touching the place marked with medallions inJesus Christ was born. The manger dicating the station number is also right there, but with a gold with Roman numerals. screen over it so you can’t touch it.

We walked through the We then traveled to Nazareth Muslim quarter as we made to visit Jesus’ childhood home and our way through the old then off to the Jordan River where city of Jerusalem, which is we stood in the river where John sectioned off into four areas, the Baptist baptized Jesus. I colthe Christian, Armenian, Jewish and Muslim quarlected water or dirt from all these amazing places to bring home to ters. We took turns carrying my dad, as well as carried rosaries a cross through the streets The Dead Sea Scrolls were found to place at each one of these holy of Jerusalem, stopping at Photos by Diane Wells sites. If he couldn’t come to Israel, I every station, finally ending in the Qumran Caves in the The tomb where Jesus was laid would bring Israel to him. by the area where Jesus was Judaean Desert in to rest in Jerusalem.

We visited the Wailing Wall, or nailed to the cross and the clay pots.

Western Wall, said to be the holiest Rock of Calvary where the place for Jewish people and one of the only remaining cross stood. I had the chance to kneel down and touch it. walls of the ancient Jewish temple, where I placed a note We also got to touch the Stone of Unction where Jesus’ in the wall for my dad, my daughter and myself as it’s body was prepared for burial by Joseph of Arimathea. customary to write short prayers on pieces of paper and The Tomb of Christ was the most amazing sight to see leave them in the crevices of the wall.

— this is in the Church of the Holy Sepulcher in JerusaWe climbed the Mount of Beatitudes, where Jesus lem. Thousands of people were waiting in line to see this delivered the Sermon on the Mount. It holy site — an empty grave. We got to go in the amazed me the amount of history in Istomb and kneeled down at the place He was laid to rest. The feelings and emotions were running rael, with ruins dating back thousands though me and I needed a minute to gather my of years. We visited Cana, the site of the thoughts. You feel like you want to cry, pray, wedding feast where Jesus performed the and jump for joy all at once, but just to be there first miracle, turning water into wine. They at these sites was something you just can’t actually have the area and jugs said to be explain. used for this miracle. It was so incredible to Taking what is in the Bible and turning it be a part of this experience. into reality was one of the most awesome expeWe traveled to the Sea of Galilee, the site of the multiplication of loaves and fishes. riences I have ever had. I would recommend the We swam in the Dead Sea, or more specifiHoly Land to anyone, whether you are a person of faith or not. It is an experience of a lifetime cally floated on it due to the incredibly high and it changes the way you look at life. salt content of the water which is 8.6 times saltier than the ocean. We then saw the original cave where the Dead Sea Scrolls The site were Jesus was born in Bethlehem. were discovered and the clay containers

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Top gifts for ‘Tweens’ this season

By Kim Skoric The Surveyor Ralphie, the famous tween from the iconic film, “A Christmas Story” could tell you exactly what he wanted for Christmas, “an official Red Ryder carbine action 200-shot-range model air rifle.” Many of us can remember that one all-time favorite present. For those in the ‘70s, pet rocks, mood rings and Stretch Armstrong were on many Christmas lists. The ‘80s tweens wanted Cabbage Patch Kids or a Rubik’s Cube.

Then in the ‘90s Beanie Babies, Furby and Power Rangers appeared on many a Christmas list. Like tweens from days gone by, many today could tell you exactly what they want for Christmas. If, however, the letter to Santa has lost its cool status and you have no list from which to draw, here are a few unique Christmas ideas your tween might just love as much as that Red Rider BB gun.

GirlZone: Hair Chalk Set For Girls, 10 Piece Temporary Hair Chalks Color — Five vibrant and five metallic color choices offer a safe and easy-to-use alternative to permanent hair color.

Snaptain H823H Mini Drone for Kids — With a circle fly function, an altitude-hold setting, and multiple durability protections, this new drone is said to be “super easy to learn.”

Hydro Flask – These refillable, environmentally friendly water bottles allow drinks to stay icy cold for 24 hours or hot for six hours.

Nintendo Switch and Nintendo Switch Lite — The Nintendo Switch, a video game console developed by Nintendo, is a hybrid console that can be used as a stationary and portable device. There are more than 2000 games available for the system. The Switch Lite has been optimized for hand-held gaming.

Popsockets Phone Wallet — The PopSockets Phone Wallet offers a sleek and secure way to carry notes from home, ID cards and more. Creative options include: aluminum, vegan leather, and natural wood.

Think Fun Gravity Maze Marble Run Logic Game — The game encourages critical thinking in a fun way. It includes 60 challenges, ranging from beginner to expert, with the aim of creating a path that will safely carry the marble to the Target Tower.

Croc clogs — Crocs are making a revival. Celebrate your one-of-akindness with new Crocs™ shoes from crocs.com.

Vans — Still keeping their style in check, many tweens today have returned to the original wafflebottom, classic slip-on skate shoe that first started in 1966.

“The Wicked King,” by Black, “Two Can Keep a Secret,” by McManis, “Gone,” by Grant, and “Revolver,” by Sedgewick, are all titles currently popular with tween readers and would make great gifts.

Unstable Unicorns — Officially one of the highest-backed

games on Kickstarter of all time, this is also one of the topselling games for tweens currently on Amazon. The point of the game is pretty simple. You have to build an amazing and magical army of unicorns and, of course, go ahead and betray your friends.

Just one more ...

Game of Phones — Game of Phones turns your trusty cellular companion into the subject of a scavenger hunt between you and your friends. Just gather your friends and their smart phones (sorry, flip phone, you’re not invited), draw a prompt card, and see who can use their phones the fastest to create an emoji masterpiece, show off the last photo you took, or find the weirdest Google Image result for your name. Collect the most points to win. Only the fastest and funniest will survive.

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CELEBRATING CHRISTMAS IN BERTHOUD • 2019

CELEBRATING CHRISTMAS IN BERTHOUD • 2019

Berthoud Weekly Surveyor

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Update your Christmas tree with these trends

By Shelley Widhalm The Surveyor Prepping for the holidays means unpacking the Christmas tree and ornaments — but maybe this year it’s time to buy something new and trendy to add to the festive fun.

The first question to ask when buying a tree is, do you want real or artificial? And if artificial, do you want something that looks like an actual tree or is obviously storebought; in funky colors, sleek metals or shiny ceramic?

Evergreen conifers are a popular option for natural trees or artificial trees that imitate the real ones in look and color. Natural trees vary in their color, shape (including height and circumference) and size, plus things like needle and trunk quality and spacing of branches.

There are the spruce that have good form and needle retention, firs known for their sturdy needles, and pines that offer plenty of space for decorations. Firs have a few varieties, such as balsam, Canaan, Douglas, grand and noble, while there are the white and Scotch pines and blue, green and white spruces.

The varieties also come in artificial versions — and now with improved designs, quality trees (and hence more expensive) nearly look like the real thing. Some even come pre-lit and decorated with ribbons and ornaments or look like they are covered in snow. A few reasons for going with artificial can include space constraints and needing something of a certain height or width or wanting a non-tree color for design purposes or to do something a little different.

The size of the artificial trees varies too, from mini at about a foot up to 7, 8 or even 12 feet (the most popular heights are 7 or 7 ½ feet, since standard residential ceilings are 8 feet). The trees can be in funky colors, too, like purple, pink and white. They can have extras like stands, storage bags, electrical connections for tree toppers, a foot-pedal on-off switch for the lights, and even gloves.

If you go with artificial, be sure to buy a quality tree skirt to cover up the stand; otherwise it will look like

what it is: fake. To get that fresh pine smell, hide a pine-scented air freshener in the branches.

For artificial trees that obviously are just that, try an aluminum tree, popular in the late 1950s to the mid1960s and came back again in the mid2000s. The tree is made of aluminum, has foil needles, and is illuminated by a rotating color wheel. Another non-green tree came about in the 1930s, called the flocked tree, created by wrapping strips of cotton batting around leafless branches — the bare spots were hidden, and the tree looked like it was covered in snow. Flocked trees, both real and artificial, have been a popular option since then.

Another artificial tree making a comeback in the 2000s is the 1970s pre-lit ceramic Christmas tree with a single bulb inside its center. The bulb lights up plastic pegs stuck into a perforated pinetree shaped shell to look like strung lights.

Ceramic ornaments also are popular, as are many other types. Ornaments started out simple, such as paper roses, apples, wafers, tinsel, and candles, later replaced by strings of Christmas lights with the advent of

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Berthoud Weekly Surveyor

CELEBRATING CHRISTMAS IN BERTHOUD • 2019

electricity. Today traditional ornaments include balls, garlands, baubles, tinsel, candy canes and gingerbread men, but they can be almost anything ranging from cartoon characters like Disney to handmade clay imprints.

The ornaments appear on walls, doors, windows and, of course, the tree. Popular ones for this year, according to one of the online lists of what’s trending include: 1. Glitter snowflakes: The individual snowflakes

have the intricate patterns of snow and come in different colors and sizes.

2. Dancing tin angels: The set of 12 angels is made from metal, with movable parts and come in different colors and sizes.

3. Multi-colored glass icicles: The colorful icicles can catch the light, but also are fragile because of their long, thin shapes.

4. Snowballs: The shatterproof snowballs are made of strong, sturdy plastic, glitter-like glass, and are lightweight.

5. Crystal star: The star is made out of clear glass, which helps it sparkle.

Another list of trending ornaments includes miniature vintage wooden ornaments of snowmen, sleds and elves, clay handprint and footprint keepsakes (made with a kit), a hand-painted Santa Claus in a sleigh full of gifts, and personalized gingerbread men, plus glitter snowflakes and mess-free glitter Christmas ornaments that were mentioned on the first list. An additional option popular online is buying a large pack of ornaments with different styles, such as the standard balls, stockings and hearts, to make decorating easy without having to go to lots of places.

Whatever you choose for your ornaments, be sure to match the colors, styles and designs with the look of the tree to make it coordinate, yet stand out when family, friends and guests visit.

CELEBRATING CHRISTMAS IN BERTHOUD • 2019

Leftover turkey recipes

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eople tend to grow weary of the same leftovers after three or four days of the same fare. To help relieve some of the pressure of the “what to do with the leftover blues” I have chosen three leftover turkey recipes to try during the Thanksgiving and/ or Christmas holidays.

This recipe is adapted from a recipe which appears at rockrecipe.com.

Easy Leftover Turkey Stroganoff 1 clove garlic, minced 3 tablespoons olive oil 1 cup mushrooms, sliced

Berthoud Weekly Surveyor

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3 cups good turkey gravy (Measured after reducing.) (See notes.)

Surveyor 1 teaspoon freshly ground black Columnist pepper ½ cup sour cream 4 cups roasted turkey, cubed, shredded or both Use seasonings with the flavors that you like — here are some examples: 1 Tbsp. fresh sage or powder 1 Tbsp. fresh Rudy rosemary or Hemmann powder 1 Tbsp. fresh thyme or powder 1 Tbsp. fresh or powder terragon 1 Tbsp. dried parsley 1 Tbsp. paprika In a large skillet or other suitable pan, sauté garlic and mushrooms over medium heat for 3 to 5 minutes, or until mushrooms begin to take on some color.

Add turkey gravy, sage, black pepper and sour cream.

21 Berthoud Weekly Surveyor CELEBRATING CHRISTMAS IN BERTHOUD • 2019 2 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded Heat until mixture reaches a simmer. Reduce heat and Heat oven to 350 degrees. allow to simmer for about 5 minutes.

Mix spaghetti sauce, turkey and zucchini.

Add the roast turkey, increase heat until mixture in Spread 1 ½ cups of the roasted turkey in an pan reaches a second simmer. Cook until meat is ungreased rectangular (11 x 7) baking dish. heated.

Top with 3 of the noodles.

Serve over egg noodles or a bed of rice.

Mix ricotta, parmesan cheeses and Notes: A “good” turkey gravy is one oregano. Place noodles in dish. Spread which has been reduced by half on the with 1 ½ cups of the turkey mixture. stovetop.

Top with remaining noodles and turIf you roast turkey the way we do, it will not be possible to squeeze key mixture. enough juice out of the bird for the Sprinkle with mozzarella cheese. dinner gravy (Remember, those Bake uncovered for 45 minutes peaks of mashed potatoes will be or until hot and bubbly. calling for gravy, too), and this Let stand 15 minutes before cutgravy as well. For that reason, it ting. Makes 8 servings. is permissible to use chicken stock Notes: The ricotta cheese may and reduce that by half. be replaced with small curd cottage This recipe is adapted from a cheese. recipe which appears at recipeland.

Here are some time saving tips: com.

Unbaked lasagna may be covered and refrigerated up to 24 hours, or wrap tightly Easy Leftover Turkey Lasagna and freeze for up to 1 month.

3 cups spaghetti sauce, chunky style When ready, bake refrigerated lasagna uncov2 cups roasted turkey, cooked and chopped ered per the instructions given above, or bake frozen 1 small to medium size zucchini, shredded lasagna uncovered at 375 degrees for about 1 hour. You (about 1 cup) may want to take a plug from the near center of the dish, 6 lasagna noodles, uncooked especially the frozen lasagna, to ensure it is fully cooked.

1 cup ricotta cheese This recipe is from our recipe box. ¼ cup grated parmesan cheese Turkey sandwiches 1 tsp. oregano Every good sandwich begins and ends with good bread.

For that we recommend Rise Bakery here in Berthoud.

Rise has several breads to choose from — stop in and see what they have to offer. We like their sourdough.

Roast turkey, sliced to medium thickness for sandwiches Mayonnaise Dill pickles, sliced lengthwise Grey Poupon mustard Tomato slices Lettuce leaves Avocado slices Cranberry sauce Place the desired “ingredients” between two slices of bread and enjoy!

CELEBRATING CHRISTMAS IN BERTHOUD • 2019

Berthoud Weekly Surveyor

Black Friday Survival Guide

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Stretch out.

Warm up a little before the doors open, explaining you strained your calf muscle running to get For those of you who the Pioneer Woman’s crockpot at Walmart is not take on the ultimate chalhow you want to go out. Equally as important, lenge and choose to put once you grab that beautiful trendy crockpot be your life on the line to go prepared to run away from the other rabid Pioneer Black Friday shopping, woman fans, if you snag the last crockpot on the I commend you. Nothshelf for the Black Friday price you are now the ing says “I love you” like enemy at that point and you must be destroyed. having to elbow your way Get in and get out. to the front of the line for Run like the wind. that perfect gift. After When the doors open, run like the wind to where years of my sister Chris the items on your list are, because it is all about and I participating in this the fastest runners getting to the six items 70 other cult-like ritual, we still people are there to get for that insanely low price love Black some of those people in line would be willing to sell Friday shopping and their grandmothers for if they thought it would have learned a thing or secure them that coveted item. two along the way.

Exceptional exceptions — scan your surPlan your work and roundings. work your plan A few years ago, my sister and I were in line at To enjoy the experience 2 a.m. for a specific item. This store happened to of Black Friday shopping be offering a large-screen TV at a ridiculously low you must have a plan. It price — something neither of us came for but none is always good to research the less we left with one anyway.

Courtesy photo the sales. Get those flyers Divide and conquer.

Chris Gischel, Diane and Tracey Brien in out, get on the internet, Five years ago we were in a store that had a the background. and do your homework. two-hour line to check out. We brought our mother Know when stores are with us just for this scenario. She became our “line opening and if they have stander.”

While we went about our merry way shopping early-bird or late-night sales. Have a clear “map” of where and dropping items with her when our arms were full, she you are going, make a priority list and stick to it, avoid was saving our place in line. By the time we were done over-spending, and avoid the “everyone is grabbing it so I shopping she was near the front of the line, making our must have it too,” which is really hard because sometimes escape much quicker and ready to go to our next destinayou don’t know you need that RainBowl Motion Sensor tion.

Take turns standing in line so each of you have time Toilet Night Light until you see everyone else with it. So to shop. be prepared to just say no.

Provisions A good offense is a good defense.

Remember to hydrate and bring a snack. Be ready for Black Friday means the Christmas shopping frenzy is hours of WWE fighting and marathon walking. This is not full blown, and the energy of the other shoppers is inan event for the weak or malnourished. tense. That — “I don’t know what it is, but it’s ½ off so I No one will hit an elf. must have it” mentality can often lead to witnessing some Wear a costume or a holiday hat to make everything overly enthusiastic Black Friday shoppers block and tackle more festive. My sister and I wear elf costumes and it is better than any player I’ve ever seen, and it’s all a part of amazing how nice people can be when you share your holithe game. Keep your eye on the prize, have your shopping day excitement.

Pass out little candy canes when you are partners back, and defend your position. in line.

It puts everyone in a wonderful mood.

For most shoppers the goal is to find the perfect gift for Improvise, adapt, and overcome. that someone special at a great price. But be aware, you If despite your best effort you don’t snag the item you can get pepper sprayed, cursed, trampled, and then to add wanted, remember there is always Cyber Monday. insult to injury, told you can’t use the coupon you had for Have fun, don’t stress, make memories. that specific item.

Although Black Friday can seem overwhelming, for us, Queue like a champ. it has become a tradition marking the start of the holiday Black Friday is the Disney World of shopping — you season.

We have learned a lot over the years, like bring spend most of your time being herded through lines like your cellphone because you never know when you are gocattle, but in the end the ride is worth it. ing to need to record something, and you have to rememMake yourself look as big as you can to the people ber you are not there to buy everything for yourself — it’s behind you, much like when being confronted with a black not about you.

But still, Black Friday has become a date bear in the wild — get your bluff in; they need to believe we so look forward to, creating memories that will last a there is no getting around you. lifetime. But most of all, just have fun. Happy Holidays!

By Diane Wells The Surveyor

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CELEBRATING CHRISTMAS IN BERTHOUD • 2019

Local non-profit seeking donations to help families this holiday season

By Katie Harris The Surveyor For 30 years House of Neighborly Service has provided holiday meals to Berthoud families in need. This year, with the recent cancelation of the Christmas in Berthoud program, the need will be greater than ever.

“We have a Christmas program at House of Neighborly Service that we’ve had for many years,” said the non-profit organization’s Berthoud manager, Jinger Tomassi. “We provide a Christmas meal with all the traditional items and also gifts for the kids.”

While the number varies from year to year, House of Neighborly Service provided holiday meals to 60 Berthoud households last December. The organization services families, seniors and disabled people with an income level of 70% area median income or less.

Christmas in Berthoud has traditionally offset the number of meals needed from House of Neighborly Service by providing a similar service during the holiday season, but this year the program won’t take place due to a lack of volunteers in the community.

A post on the Christmas in Berthoud Facebook page on Oct. 22 stated, “Unfortunately, Christmas in Berthoud will not be able to provide any assistance to families of Berthoud this holiday season. We hope to have enough help to be able to give again next year.”

Tomassi said House of Neighborly Service intends to provide meals to everyone affected by the loss of Christmas in Berthoud this year, but the organization can’t do it alone.

“We really need the community to help us to be able to pull it off this year with the added families that we’re taking in,” she said. “We’re trying to do this all kind of last minute, so any help

we can get is appreciated.”

Items needed by House of Neighborly Service to fulfill the need this season include turkey, ham and other holiday foods; wrapping paper, toys and gift cards for children’s gifts; and grocery gift cards for anyone on a special diet.

Monetary donations can also be made by mailing a check to P.O. Box 203 in Berthoud; dropping it off during the organization’s open hours at the Berthoud Life Center, 375 Meadowlark Dr., Tuesday and Thursday from 9 a.m.-4 p.m., or 9 a.m. - 7 p.m. the first Tuesday of the month; or by calling 970-532-0161.

While the organization is working diligently to make sure Berthoud residents in need have access to a holiday meal as well as gifts for children, Tomassi noted House of Neighborly Service won’t be able to provide some of the other fundraisers Christmas in Berthoud has traditionally hosted, including the spaghetti dinner and crafts, due to the last minute cancelation of the program.

“Our main goal is to fill the gap this year and make sure people know they have an option even though Christmas in Berthoud won’t be provided,” she said. “We really need the community to help rally around us and make this happen.”

Donations for the holiday season are being accepted by House of Neighborly Service now through Dec. 19, and meals and other items can be picked up by individuals in need any day in December through the 19th. The organization will close the week of Christmas.

“The main thing we want people to know is to call us if they’re interested in helping, or have any questions, or know of a family in need that can’t make it during regular hours,” said Tomassi.

“We can answer any questions and let people know what to bring as far as paperwork. We can always work something out to make sure people get the help they need.”

CELEBRATING CHRISTMAS IN BERTHOUD • 2019

Berthoud Weekly Surveyor

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The Great Outdoors – Outdoors gift ideas and a reflection on the season

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n gift-giving season, here are a few of my suggestions for the outdoor lovers.

• “Whispers in the Wilderness,” by Erik Stensland, is a favorite short book of reflections on nature, with his own incredible photography. He has other books specifically on Rocky Mountain National Park. Check it out at www.

MorningLight.us/.

• I love Heat Keep down vests for men and women, at Kohls. They are practical, down filled and very inexpensive.

• Lars Leber is a Colorado Springs photographer, and his calendars are amazing, especially the night skies. https://larsleber.com/.

• Savory Spices Wonderful blends of spices as well as every unusual spice you could want. I love Capitol Hill Seasoning blend, Pikes Peak Butchers Rub, and Black Dust Cowboy Coffee rub. Savoryspices.com • I suggest Cortland brand fishing rods for the young and beginners. https://www.cortlandline.com/collections/ rods-reels-outfits/.

• Gift cards to fly shops or outdoor shops to replenish equipment

• My personal recommendation for some of the best fishing waders Guest with a great warranty are Simms Columnist waders. Simmsfishing.com Aside from all the wonderful gifts we can give during the holiday season, it’s important to remember what really is important.

A good reminder during any time of year, but especially in this season, it’s not happiness that brings us gratitude. It is gratitude that brings us happiness.

Who in Colorado cannot find Jim beauty in our blues skies and our Kilpatrick stunning peaks? This is the season of year for gratitude, when the winds blow out of the north and the leaves swirl us a warning the season of cold and stillness is on its way. Even the beauty of the cold snow can give us the opportunity to be grateful and to share our gratitude by acts of kindness. We give gifts in the midst of winter and I guess that is a good time to choose contentment. Contentment is the choice to be satisfied, often regardless of our circumstances.

Life is a cycle. Childhood is for wonders and happy explorations. Play is the work of youth.

Adulthood is for savoring our children, learning yet more through teaching them. And enjoying our life successes, but even in our losses we can choose to be content.

Hold what is in your hand very lightly. Keep your eyes forward on the now of today and expect good things tomorrow. Choose no regrets.

Before you know it, you find yourself in mid-life. As silly as it seems, we seem to think it is your 60s but, really, it’s around 40.

The senior years, I find, have much to do with our attitude. This part of life is a real adjustment both mentally and physically. I found I just didn’t expect my senior years to happen so fast. But all living things change. I remember the line in the TV mini-series Centennial, which was set in Colorado in the mid-1700s. An Arapaho child loses his father in a battle and is taught “only the rocks live forever.”

Well, my observation is even rocks, over time, show wear.

At least once a day ask yourself, “What am I grateful for?” $37 in the 80513 zip code and $47 elsewhere.

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Berthoud Weekly Surveyor

CELEBRATING CHRISTMAS IN BERTHOUD • 2019