As the leaves fall and winter draws near, we’re excited to bring you From Harvest to Holidays with this edition of MyNOCO From local non-profit food drives to Turkey Trots across Northern Colorado, we’ve packed this edition full of stories that highlight our vibrant community.
We kick things off with a spotlight on Turkey Trots throughout NOCO, featuring insights from the team at the Loveland Turkey Trot. Next, we explore two remarkable non-profit organizations, ChildSafe Colorado and the Food Bank for Larimer County, who are making a significant impact this season. Their stories remind us of the importance of supporting one another.
For those looking to get cozy, we explore the world of NOCO knitting with the help of Lambspun in Fort Collins. Plus, we offer guidance on managing holiday stress for both seniors and families.
And of course, no fall edition would be complete without delicious recipes. Scattered throughout, you’ll find seasonal favorites, including a standout German Apple Pancake recipe shared by our friends at Adam’s Apple Orchard.
Darian Armer, Meredith Deeds, Kathleen Duff, Jared Fiel, Rebecca Furuta, Linda Gassenheimer, Krista Smith, Sandi Squincquero, Matthew L. Van Deventer, Kristen M. White
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NOVEMBER 2024
COVER STORY
There are races to be run on Thanksgiving occurring all across northern Colorado. We feature some of the local ones, including the Loveland Turkey Trot.
NONPROFIT SPOTLIGHT
Childsafe’s new space will allow for more capacity in serving northern Colorado as well as partnering with other nonprofits.
BONUS NONPROFIT SPOTLIGHT
The Food Bank of Larimer County is giving chicken, ham or turkey to 4000-5000 local families through their annual “Tour de Turkey.”
SENIORS’ CORNER
The holidays offer many chances to be with family and friends, but following a loss, the holidays can be a difficult time to cope.
THE BOOKSHELF: BOOKS ABOUT THANKSGIVING
There is literally no shortage of Thanksgiving and late fallthemed books out there for you to read if you choose.
TRY THIS
Weavers, spinners, knitters and crocheters of all skill levels travel from near and far to enjoy a hub of history and craft at Lambspun in Fort Collins.
DINNER TIME
A quick fix: learn to cook sheet pan pork with autumn vegetables and get extra tips to make the whole process easier (and tastier!).
TREAT YOURSELF TO WELLNESS
What steps can you take to make the upcoming holiday season less stressful? We present some ideas to reduce your anxiety this season, regardless of the cause.
HOLIDAY DRIVES
Coffee shop The Human Bean hosts a holiday toy drive from November 7 through December 1 to benefit Santa Cops of Weld county, Serve 6.8 and Life Stories.
EVENT PLANNING
As the holiday season approaches, NoCo is bursting with festive events and artistic showcases that capture the spirit of the season.
UPCOMING EVENTS
Things to do in NoCo in November from a performance of Into the Woods through Atlas Theater’s annual Indie Arts Market.
BONUS RECIPES
Enjoy some lighter apple-based recipes like a salad or German Apple Pancakes.
Runners Iain Fraser, Allison Ziarko and William Fraser cross the finish line at the 2023 Loveland Turkey Trot. for 23 years, the 5k has brought together runners, walkers, families and the community for a serving of fun, tradition and competition.
Turkey Trot
By Kathleen Duff
FOR TURKEY TROTS ACROSS NORTHERN COLORADO
RUNNING THE LOVELAND TURKEY TROT IS LIKE COMING HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS. FOR 23 YEARS, THE 5K HAS BROUGHT TOGETHER RUNNERS, WALKERS, FAMILIES AND THE COMMUNITY FOR A SERVING OF FUN, TRADITION AND COMPETITION.
This year’s race starts at 8:30 a.m., Nov. 28, at 2000 Boise Ave., Loveland. The location at the McKee Medical Center has proved to be part of what makes the event special, said Kara Pappas, executive director of the McKee Wellness Foundation.
In prior years, construction forced organizers to move the event to a different location. They even had to hold the race virtually due to COVID. But last year, the Loveland Turkey Trot returned to the original McKee site.
“When you have an event so many years running, people get accustomed to that Loveland location. Last year, we moved the event back and we saw a huge surge” in participation, Pappas said. “We believe this is home for the Loveland Turkey Trot.”
“The (run) stands apart from any other because you see entire families come out and with multiple generations. This is a
family tradition. We have people in costumes with turkey feathers and other fun themes,” she said. “And the residents in surrounding neighborhoods — it’s their tradition, as well. They are coming out with signs and cheering on the runners. It’s special to not only see families but also the community come together.”
This year, more than 1,700 runners and walkers are expected to participate. The first 1,700 entrants will receive a longsleeve T-shirt. This year’s shirt is made to look like an ugly Christmas sweater.
“We often hear that we have the best run T-shirts,” Pappas added with a laugh.
There is a serious side to all this fun, though. The run is a major fundraiser
for the McKee Wellness Foundation, which is expected to raise $100,000 through entry fees and sponsorships.
The foundation works to bridge the gap between health and wellness in Northern Colorado.
As Pappas explained, some patients may have insurance that covers their medical expenses, but they don’t have funds for rent or other needs while recovering. Others may be un-
Runners take off at the starting line at the 2023 Loveland Turkey Trot.
Courtesy/Loveland Turkey Trot
Runners in costume at the 2023 Loveland Turkey Trot. Courtesy/Loveland Turkey Trot
der-insured and need assistance to complete medical treatment. The foundation helps these individuals to bridge the gap between their needs and available resources by providing crisis health, dental and mental health services.
The foundation has multiple community partners to broaden its reach, including the Blue Star Fund, which distributes grants to assist veterans to various nonprofits, such as the Loveland Housing Authority, Larimer County Housing Authority, Health4Heroes and others. The foundation also partners with HeartSafe in its effort to place AEDs (automated external defibrillators) throughout the community, works with multiple cancer support organizations and is a longtime supporter of the Loveland Community Health Clinic.
Pappas concluded, “We never want to have someone have to choose between their wellness and keeping the lights on. Where other doors may close for these patients, we work to make sure those doors remain open.”
Loveland Turkey Trot
8:30 a.m. Thursday, Nov. 28, McKee Medical Center, 2000 Boise Ave., Loveland.
The course map and registration is available at lovelandturkeytrot.com
Participants may run or walk.
Categories:
l Li’l Tater Trotters, age 0-4; a special li’l bib will be provided; $5
l Youth: ages 5-17; $25
l Early Bird registration 18+, through 11:59 p.m., Oct. 31; $35
l Registration 18+: $40
l Late registration 18+, $45
l Day of Registration 18+, $50
l Registered participants age 5 and older will receive a longsleeve T-shirt
100 percent of proceeds benefit McKee Wellness Foundation, which bridges the gap for wellness in Northern Colorado. The race will be run regardless of weather conditions. No refunds.
Dogs allowed with 6-foot non-retractable leashes, if vaccinated and well-behaved.
Pelican Lakes Turkey Trot
9 a.m., Nov. 28, at 1620 Pelican Lakes Road. Go to runsignup.com
or visit runWindsor.com. Proceeds benefit Athletes in Tandem and the Weld Food Bank.
Greeley Turkey Trot Thanksgiving Race
9 a.m. Nov. 28 at 1801 16th St., Greeley. Proceeds benefit the Weld Legacy Foundation and the CardioVascular Institute of North Colorado. Visit weldlegacy.org.
Fort Collins Thanksgiving Day Run
4-mile run/walk, starts at 9 a.m. Nov. 28 at the intersection of West Mountain Avenue and South College Avenue. The free kid run starts at 8:45 a.m. The run is presented by Christina Abbey of Raymond James in memory of Michael Trinen. Visit fctdayrun.com.
Northern Colorado is home to some of the most fun Thanksgiving runs, and they’re fun for the entire family. Turkey Trots are opportunities to raise funds for some wonderful various causes that our state has to offer.
“WE NEVER WANT TO HAVE SOMEONE HAVE TO CHOOSE BETWEEN THEIR WELLNESS AND KEEPING THE LIGHTS ON. WHERE OTHER DOORS MAY CLOSE FOR THESE PATIENTS, WE WORK TO MAKE SURE THOSE DOORS REMAIN OPEN.”
Runners at the 2023 Loveland Turkey Trot. Courtesy/Loveland Turkey Trot
Runners take off at the starting line at the 2023 Loveland Turkey Trot. Courtesy/Loveland Turkey Trot
Runners in costume at the 2023 Pelican Lakes Turkey Trot. Courtesy/Pelican Lakes Turkey Trot
Runners head past the hospital at the 2023 Greeley Turkey Trot Thanksgiving Race. Courtesy/Greeley Turkey Trot
Runners in the spirit at the 2023 Fort Collins Thanksgiving Day Run. Courtesy/Fort Collins Thanksgiving Day Run.
Healing Starts Here
FOR 38 YEARS, CHILDSAFE HAS BEEN OFFERING A COMPREHENSIVE, COMMUNITY-BASED RESPONSE TO CHILD SEXUAL ABUSE.
By Darien Armer
It began when several private practice therapists in Fort Collins saw children who had experienced sexual abuse being underserved. With kids falling through the
cracks, ChildSafe was born. That first year they started with 10 children.
Last year they served 729 clients. With the opening of their Loveland location, executive director Kathleen Baumgardner says they will serve 137 in the first year, continuing to grow that number as they expand into their 3,590-square-foot-space.
The new space will allow for much more capacity. They’re starting with a small staff with intentional growth in mind as budget allows. The group is also looking to partner with other groups that serve children and families. Loveland campus partners include the Boys and Girls Club of Larimer County, Teaching Tree Early Childhood Learning Center, Children’s Speech and Reading Center, KidsPak, Loveland Youth Gardeners, El Sueño Latino, Obesity Aware-
ness Action and Heart and Sol.
“There are so many nonprofits that we’re already building bonds and collaborating with. We’ve also been growing our space and staff in our Fort Collins facility. So much so that our administrative team had to leave the building and co-office elsewhere,” she says.
Baumgardner says when people think about therapy, they often think talk therapy, but ChildSafe offers different forms of therapy, including play therapy, sand tray and art therapy, things that work with children. They also offer neurofeedback, EMDR therapy and brain mapping.
Untreated childhood trauma can lead to a host of issues later in life, from higher tendencies for disability, illness, lower academic achievement and lower earning potential to higher rates
Above: With the opening of Childsafe’s Loveland location, they say they weill serve as many as 137 clients in the first year. Shutterstock
Below: Part of a mural at Childsafe. Courtesy/Childsafe
of suicide and suicide ideation.
“It’s impactful to people’s future relationships. If you’re a victim of child sexual abuse, it may cloud every relationship after this,” says Baumgardner. “There are definite consequences to not only the individual, but their family members. Most times the perpetrators of abuse are family members or someone within that circle of trust. We treat whole families because this is a systemic issue.” (ChildSafe does not treat any offending family members).
On average, ChildSafe treats two members of a family. While there is always a primary victim, there is often a secondary victim, too.
“We have a wide age range of clients for services. Our youngest clients we serve are two years old, and our oldest client is 86. We mostly treat children and families who are arriving, but we do see about 9-10 percent of clients who are adults that were primary victims of child sexual abuse. Our typical age of the children we serve is seven years old.”
As a nonprofit, Baumgardner says that last year 1.22 percent of revenue came from out of pocket client payments. While they do bill insurance and victim’s compensation, it
makes up a small percentage of income. Their primary funding comes from grants, donations and event income. With that in mind, ChildSafe is always open to donations and volunteers.
“We’re facing a lot of expenses coming up and it would be so helpful if people who had a heart for this would donate to help children and families. We currently serve 47 zip codes. We provide services that aren’t financially available to people. We also welcome groups and organizations that want to come in and help. If you can come in and help for a few hours we would put you to work,” Baumgardner laughs. “We have a lot of opportunities for that type of work.”
Therapists work four ten-hour shifts Monday through Thursday. Baumgardner offers tours on Fridays so visitors can see the whole campus and find out more about the organization.
For more information about ChildSafe, visit childsafecolorado.org.
Quilts at Childsafe. Courtesy/Childsafe
Tour de Turkey
HOW OUR COMMUNITY IS GIVING BACK THIS FALL
By Rebecca Furuta
For many of us, the Thanksgiving meal is the beginning of our holiday celebrations. For those in need, it can be a time of anxiety.
The Food Bank of Larimer County is making sure that approximately 4000-5000 local families will have chicken, ham or turkey for their Thanksgiving main course through their annual “Tour de Turkey.”
Tour de Turkey is an annual turkey drive that supplies Larimer County Food Bank partner agencies with thousands of frozen turkeys which are then distributed to families in need. The event is now in its fourth year.
“Tour de Turkey was really born out of the COVID pandemic,” explains Morgan Villnave, the Larimer County Food Bank Community Engagement Manager. “New Belgium Brewing had canceled their ‘Tour de Fat,’ and we needed an absurd amount of turkeys that
year. We got together, and they loaned us their start line arch to use for a drive-thru turkey dropoff. It was a huge success, and we quickly realized that this is a great way to host our annual turkey drive.”
Once collected, the turkeys — and other frozen proteins like chickens, hams and Cornish hens — are handed off to agencies that partner with the Larimer County Food Bank. The largest recipients are the Poudre Valley and Thompson school districts. “The guidance counselors and
family liaisons within the districts are very good at identifying families who might need turkeys, and they have become our primary referral source,” explains Villnave. Other food pantries and community service agencies also receive donated birds for distribution in the county.
Villnave says that the demand is high this year, and turkeys are a particularly challenging item for food banks to source.
“Grocery stores often sell turkeys at a loss
and then profit from the other ingredients that make up the Thanksgiving meal. This makes it impossible for food banks like Larimer County Food Bank to get large donations of turkeys from grocers. This is one item that we really need to have people in the community donate,” she says.
This year, the Tour de Turkey will take place on Thursday, November 21st. Larimer County Food Bank plans the event the week prior to the Thanksgiving holiday so as to ensure that families have time to safely thaw their turkeys. “We can only accept frozen turkeys for reasons of food safety, and then we give instructions on safe food handling with each turkey,” says Villnave. The turkeys are distributed to families the following day, on Friday the 22nd.
There are two locations for the Tour de Turkey – The Drake Center in Fort Collins or the Orchards
Volunteers at the Tour de Turkey pose under a New Belgium tent.
Courtesy/Food Bank of Larimer County & New Belgium
Shopping Center in Loveland. Drive thru lanes are open from 6 a.m. until 6 p.m. and the first 250 donors at both locations will receive a coupon good for a six-pack of beer at New Belgium. If you can’t make the Tour de Turkey on the 21st, frozen birds can be donated anytime at any of the three Food Bank of Larimer County locations.
New Belgium is also giving away some goodies to the first 250 donors at both the Fort Collins and Loveland Tour de Turkey locations this year, continuing their partnership with the Food Bank. Early birds can receive a coupon good for a 6-pack of beer at New Belgium as well as have the opportunity to snag several $50 New Belgium prize packages.
Tour de Turkey prioritizes turkeys, but Villnave says that any “frozen centerpiece food item” is welcome, along with financial donations. For food safety reasons, and in order to ensure safe transportation and distribution
to Larimer County residents, the turkey must be frozen solid when dropped off.
“Everyone deserves to have their family come together for a special holiday meal,” says Villnave. “It takes about 200 volunteers and the participation of our whole community to make sure that everyone has that opportunity.”
HUNGER STATISTICS
Hunger exists in every corner of Colorado, and it affects people from all walks of life.
To learn more about hunger in your community from Feeding America’s Map the Meal Gap resource, see map.feedingamerica.org /county/2022/overall/colorado.
In 2022, 11.5% of Coloradans were food insecure. That’s one in nine Coloradans.
In 2022, 14.2% of Coloradan
children were food insecure.
Hundreds of thousands of children and families living in Colorado face hunger and food insecurity every day.
Every county in our state is home to families who face hunger, including rural and suburban communities.
Many households that experience food insecurity do not qualify for federal nutrition programs and need to rely on
their local Feeding Colorado food banks and network of partner agencies for support.
LAST YEAR...
13 Million Coloradans served by the Food Bank for Larimer County’s network
126 Million pounds of food distributed throughout Colorado
$24 Million spent on food purchasing
Volunteers at the Tour de Turkey loading up turkeys. Courtesy/ Food Bank of Larimer County
Everyone grieves differently. Some people want to be alone. Some people want to share that grief.
Courtesy/Pathways
IBy Jared Fiel
Holidays Can be Tough
WHEN FAMILY AND FRIENDS HAVE PASSED The
t might be the empty chair around the Christmas meal table. It might be that nobody knows how to carve the turkey as good as grandpa.
The holidays offer many chances to be with family and friends, but following the loss of a loved one, the holidays can be a
difficult time to cope.
“The holidays can really be a significant time after a loss,” said President of Pathways Hospice Evan Hyatt. “The first year after, especially, can really feel the impact.”
Pathways, which serves Larimer and Weld counties, offers
family grief counseling and programs for the first year after the death of a loved one. “Everyone grieves differently. Some people want to be alone. Some people want to share that grief,” he said. “We try to help wherever we can.”
In November, Pathways is offering a class on grief and the holidays to help people navigate the often emotional times of the season.
“We also offer creative classes like wreath-making as a way to offer an activity for those who don’t feel like talking or sharing in a group,” he said. “It offers a way to focus on something else with others who are going through the same thing. It often evolves into talking about the loved one so we have our counselors on hand to help.”
Grief hits all ages differently also. Pathways has dedicated spaces for children who have lost someone.
While the holidays can be especially hard on family, Hyatt said staff members who grow close to their clients while in their care also struggle with grief. “They deal with death all the time, but it’s never easy,” he said. “We offer many of the same services for our staff that we do for families. It’s a focus yearround.”
Here are some of the ways author James Miller, who wrote How Will I Get Through the Holidays, suggests for managing grief while everyone else is celebrating:
l Accept the likelihood of your pain. If you know it is coming, it can be easier to deal with.
l Feel whatever it is you feel. Like Hyatt said, “Everyone grieves differently.” It might be sadness, depression, anxiety, fear, anger, guilt or even apathy, but your feelings aren’t wrong. They are yours.
Pathways Inpatient Care Center main entrance. Courtesy/Pathways
l Express your emotions. Hiding your feelings in the logistics and planning of the holidays can be harmful. Let yourself express it.
l Take charge where you can. Whether its modifying family traditions or just identifying the parts of the celebrations that are meaningful to you, take the lead, but try not to make drastic changes.
l Turn to others for support. Let people know how they can help and seek out those who will let you talk or cry, if that’s what you need. Bereavement support groups can also help.
l Be gentle with yourself. Make time to rest and don’t overcommit. Allow yourself to ease holiday demands.
Turn to others for support. Let people know how they can help if that’s what you need. Courtesy/Pathways
Books Turkey Day
By Kristen M. White
Ask people what comes to mind when discussing Thanksgiving and you’ll get some pretty standard answers — giving thanks, family and food. So it’s unsurprising there is no shortage of Thanksgiving and late fall-themed books out there to read.
With the help of the Loveland Public Library staff, we’ve rounded up some book recommendations. Maybe you’re looking for a good fictional escape to read while you digest the big meal, or perhaps you want to read with your kids or grandkids about the origins of Thanksgiving. You might even be looking for Thanksgiving dinner inspiration. No matter what, keep reading for some seasonal suggestions.
For the youngsters, Children’s Librarian Cindi Pfeiffer suggested a couple of picture books. The Stranger by Chris Van Allsburg is the story of a mystery guest at the Bailey farm. How Many Days to America? by Eve Bunting and illustrated by Beth Peck is a story about refugees and a dangerous boat trip, demonstrating a reason to be thankful.
poetic text alongside beautiful illustrations follows baby birds as they hatch, grow, learn to fly and then follow the winds for fall migration.
Children’s Librarian Keleigh Bramwell suggested Keepunumuk: Weeâchumun’s Thanksgiving Story, co-authored by Danielle Greendeer, Anthony Perry and Alexis Bunten, illustrated by Garry Meeches Sr.
with an easy and traditional Wampanoag recipe to try at home and share with friends and family.”
Great for toddlers is Bear Says Thanks by Karma Wilson.
The bouncy, rhyming text focuses on sharing and gratitude.
Another engaging picture book suggested by Assistant Librarian Janette Edwards is Follow the Flyway: The Marvel of Bird Migration by Sarah Nelson and illustrated by Maya Hanisch. Rhyming,
“This is a modern-day retelling of the first Thanksgiving from a native perspective. It is a great book for elementary children learning the history of Thanksgiving,” Bramwell said.
“It’s complete
For adults, Adult Services Librarian Brianna Jones suggested It Happened One Autumn by Lisa Kleypas and Such a Fun Age by Kiley Reid. “It Happened One Autumn is part of Kleypas’ Wallflowers series, and this historical romance is bound to warm readers up on cooler nights,” Jones said. “In
There is no shortage of Thanksgiving and late-fall-themed books out there to read.
Photo Credit
Such a Fun Age, while much of the story is focused on privilege, class and race, there’s a climatic scene where a lot of family and relationship drama unfolds over Thanksgiving dinner. And who hasn’t been there?”
Thanksgiving Night by Richard Bausch, Thanksgiving by Janet Evanovich and An Old-Fashioned Thanksgiving by Louisa May Alcott are all popular fictional reads with the holiday built right in the title.
If you’re up for some satire, there’s Billy Lynn’s Long Halftime Walk by Ben Fountain. This fictional National Book Critics Circle Award winner takes place during the halftime show of a Thanksgiving Day NFL game.
The Martian by Andy Weir is a science-y saga about a stranded astronaut’s survival, where potatoes — a staple at many Thanksgiving
dinner tables — play a big role.
And if you’re looking for food inspiration, consider The Friendsgiving Cookbook by Taylor Vance, or The Complete Autumn and Winter Cookbook by America’s Test Kitchen.
“These recipe books are perfect if you’re looking for something new to add to your traditional holiday fare!” said Edwards.
Balloons Over Broadway by Melissa Sweet is a nonfiction book that the whole family can enjoy. Especially if the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day parade is part of your annual routine, you’ll love how its origins come to life in this Caldecott Honor Winner picture book. Sweet introduces master puppeteer, Tony Sarg, a self-taught immigrant with a great imagination, who invented the first balloons for the parade.
TryThis
Learn to
Knit
THIS FALL WITH LOCAL CLASSES TO CRAFT COZY CREATIONS
By Matthew Van Deventer
At the corner of East Lincoln Avenue and South Lemay Way in Fort Collins, there is a mecca for a certain type of creative: fiber artists.
Weavers, spinners, knitters, and crocheters of all skill levels travel from near and far to enjoy this hub of history and craft at Lambspun. They come together to explore new products, learn for the first time, trade secrets, see the origin of a knitting murder mystery series, or simply work on their project and connect.
“It draws people, somehow, like a magnet, and every day we see incredible artists,” said Lambspun owner, Shirley Ellsworth in an interview with YouTuber Knitty Knatty.
the Spring while cozy colors make their appearance in cooler weather.
Unique raw and finished products, many of which are made by local producers or hand-spun or hand-dyed onsite are on display.
Walking through the historic homestead that Lambspun is in, visitors will come across an array of products packed into rustic rooms. Items are rotated to match the season: warmer colors like greens and yellows are out during
Among the countless available items are tools of the trade, Noro yarn from Japan, alpaca wool, how-to books, yarn kits, Israel cotton yarn spun in Italy, and washable yarns. Finished items like National Parks hats, pot holders, or mini socks — so the timid can better understand their architecture — are also available for purchase.
In another room, at the ready, are looms small enough to teach a child how to spin and large looms for the more experienced. They also have buttons — an entire wall of color-coded buttons. They are handmade and many are one-of-a-kind. Ellsworth said some people come just for the buttons.
Outdoor shot of yarn creation. Courtesy Lambspun
Outdoor shot of yarn creation. Courtesy Lambspun
In the back of the homestead, there’s a large table where fiber artists of all ages and skills gather and build community. It’s where the weekly potluck takes place every Friday from 12:30-3 p.m. Visitors bring a tasty treat and sip on organic Rishi teas while they enjoy their craft
It’s also the table that author Maggie Sefton sat at and gathered stories of Colorado’s front range and Wyoming that she would use in her 15-book knitting murder mystery series.
“At first we just thought she was a cute little lady and let her do her thing,” reminisced Ellsworth.
Even Ellsworth became a notable character, Mimi, in the books which can also be purchased at Lambspun.
The homestead itself was built in 1937 and has been bought and sold several times and at one point it was a fine dining Italian restaurant.
Before moving into the current location 30 years ago, Lamb-
spun was in a one-room shop in downtown Fort Collins. The homestead was in rough shape and people advised Ellsworth that it was far beyond the city and out of the way.
However, Ellsworth saw promise: “I thought ‘this building is fabulous. I would love to be here even if it’s not great.’” Despite their “pitiful” offer and being fourth in line, everything fell into place and they were able to purchase the home and turn it into what it is today.
Ellsworth explained that they are always trying to preserve the homestead’s historical integrity such as maintaining the wood floors, bringing in natural lighting, and highlighting some of the tiling.
Ellsworth said that the original owners of the home were welloff enough that they could travel the world and they often brought back tiles that they placed around the house.
Lambspun has managed to
keep up with the times. There’s a restaurant in the back that smokes meats several times a week and bakes their own pies and bread. They have a presence on social media including Facebook Live every Wednesday at 2 p.m. Online ordering is available and they’ll text pictures of their latest items
to customers to see what they want and they have numerous classes available to all skill levels, growing the already flourishing knitting community.
Visit their site at lambspun.com or call (970) 484-1998 or (800) 558-5262.
Cameron Ivy
Jada Specht
Nate Scofield
McCarty
Austin Medina Manny Nieto Cambrilynn Ivy
Blackwell Tim Byrd
McCreery & Sun of Colorado
Outdoor shot of the Lambspun building. Courtesy Lambspun.
Quick Fix
Sheet Pan Pork with Autumn Vegetables
By Linda Gassenheimer
Here’s an easy weeknight meal. Just assemble the ingredients and let the oven do the rest. I cut the pork tenderloin into small steaks and placed them on a sheet pan with baby kale and butternut squash. It all bakes for 10 minutes.
A big help is that you can buy butternut squash cubes ready made in the produce section of the market. I added a little cornstarch to the pork sauce. It helps the sauce coat the pork.
HELPFUL HINTS
l Frozen butternut squash cubes can be used instead of fresh.
l Wine vinegar can be used instead of balsamic vinegar.
COUNTDOWN
l Preheat the oven to 400 degrees.
l Prepare all ingredients and add to sheet pan.
l Add sheet pan to oven.
SHOPPING LIST
To buy: 3/4-pound pork tenderloin, 1 bottle balsamic vinegar, 1 jar whole grain mustard. 1 bottle honey, 1 container corn starch, 1 package butternut squash cubes, 1 small container baby kale, 1 bottle reduced fat oil and vinegar dressing, 1 can vegetable oil spray, and 1 bottle smoked paprika.
Staples: Canola oil, salt and black peppercorns. Sheet Pan Pork with Autumn Vegetables
Recipe by Linda Gassenheimer:
l 3/4 pound pork tenderloin
l 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
l 2 tablespoons whole grain mustard
l 2 tablespoon honey
l 1 tablespoon canola oil
l 1 teaspoon cornstarch
l Vegetable oil spray
l 2 cups butternut squash cubes
l 4 cups baby kale stems removed and cut into 2-inch
Clean shot of a fall-themed table. Unsplash
pieces
l 4 tablespoons reduced fat vinaigrette dressing
l 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
l Salt and freshly ground black pepper
Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Adjust the oven rack to the middle position.
Remove visible fat from the
pork and cut into 1-inch slices. Press the slices down with a meat bat or heavy skillet to 1/2-inch thick.
Mix the balsamic vinegar, mustard, honey, oil and cornstarch together on a large plate. Add the pork slices and turn to coat all sides. Spray a sheet pan with vegetable oil spray. Place the pork steaks on one
side of the sheet pan and spoon any extra sauce on top. Add the butternut squash cubes and kale to the other side of the sheet pan.
Cover the vegetables with aluminum foil. Place the sheet pan on the middle shelf in the oven. Roast for 10 minutes. A meat thermometer should read 145 degrees.
Remove sheet pan from the oven, remove the foil and spoon the vinaigrette dressing over the vegetables.
Sprinkle with the smoked paprika and salt and pepper to taste.
Divide the pork and vegetables into two portions and serve on two dinner plates.
YIELD 2 SERVINGS
Per serving: 516 calories (31 percent from fat), 17.5 g fat (2.2 g saturated, 8.1 g monounsaturated), 110 mg cholesterol, 42.5 g protein, 54.8 g carbohydrates, 6.5 g fiber, 335 mg sodium.
Linda Gassenheimer is the author of over 30 cookbooks, including her newest, The 12-Week Diabetes Cookbook. Listen to Linda on www.WDNA.org and all major podcast sites. Email her at linda@ dinnerinminutes.com.
Profile of Linda Gassenheimer. Tribune Content Agency
Sheet pan pork and vegtables freshly cooked and ready to eat. Tribune Content Agency
TreatYourselfToWellness
AMaking Your Holiday Season Less
By Sandi Squicquero
s we prepare for the 2024 Thanksgiving holiday, many of us are hoping for a stress-free holiday. Turkeys are being bought with all the holiday fixings of past traditions. A stress-free Thanksgiving? Probably not, as most of us want to make the best of the holiday with family and friends. What would a stress-free holiday look like? Perhaps a trip to the Bahamas. No preparing the turkey ahead of time or deciding whether you will have pumpkin or pecan pie. You wouldn’t be wondering which relative would be late for dinner or not show up. Stress-free, unless your flight was delayed!
As the Thanksgiving holiday is a prelude to the holiday season
Stressful
stress level is
and is defined differently than other times during the year. Four in five adults or 80% would describe the holidays as stressful while 50% would describe them as joyous. Women are most likely to report feeling stress during the holiday season because they are multi-tasking, preparing the house for the holidays, and making preparations for family and friends who visit. Everyday stress can lead to increased conflict and disaster in families. Many women will fall into bad habits such as overeating and too much alcohol. Increased stress often leads to a decreased immune system and by the time the holidays are over, women are often exhausted. In a
• Active Military & Veterans
• First Responders
•
• Teachers
•
• Teachers
Psychological Association and Quinlan Rosner Research 44% of women reported an increase of stress versus 31 percent of men. Family drama, financial worries or grief and loss can be intense and overbearing. This can lead to substance abuse, anxiety or other mental health issues.
Holiday stress is just beginning. As the Christmas season is around the corner, work stress will increase as many families are trying to work overtime to indulge in the commercialism of holiday giving. According to Ronald Nathan, PHD, Clinical Professor at Albany Medical College in New York a key culprit is our own memories. He states,
“When we think about the holidays, we dwell on the past and what went wrong, or we romanticize it and make it impossible to recreate.” He counsels people to carefully examine their thoughts and expectations and not drive themselves crazy finding “the perfect gift” or planning “the perfect party.” “Stress is the killer of smiles, somewhere in the middle lies balance.”
Here are some tips to reduce your stress during the holidays
l Set your priorities: too much of anything can create stress. Prioritize your activities and do the things you enjoy.
our
on the rise
study conducted by the American
Autumn table. Unsplash
l Learn your boundaries and say NO when you are unable to participate.
l Create your holiday: If your schedules permit plan as much as you can from decorating to your holiday meal.
l Ask for help in the kitchen or when decorating.
l Live in the here and now: Don’t worry about the future or fuss about the past.
l Stay happy and socialized: Don’t isolate, get together with family and friends or volunteer during the holidays.
For those who are without family for the holidays because of distance or other things out of our control, it’s important to let go of the stress that may be associated with loneliness. A way to manage your stress is by looking at each individual stressor and asking yourself, “can I control it, can I change it, or do I need to learn to let it go?” Letting go is a
process that takes time. For this Thanksgiving and the holiday season that follows, take control of your life. “Feelings come from thoughts, and if you can change your thoughts you can change your feelings.” May you all have a happy holiday season filled with family and friends. Thanksgiving arises out of the need of people to give thanks for all the good things in their lives, knowing good fortune is a blessing and the vagaries of life can be very cruel. Many people suffer terrible losses and sadness and those of us who are spared or who overcome adversity are grateful. In taking my own inventory, I pause to remember what to be thankful for. I am grateful to God for all my blessings and misfortunes. I give thanks for all my family and friends. I am grateful for my ability to help others and for the freedom to express myself by writing for YOU. Happy Thanksgiving to you and yours.
CHANGES IN STRESS LEVELS DURING THE HOLIDAY SEASON
A survey by the American Psychological Association found 89% of U.S. adults experience stress during the holiday season, with financial concerns and family conflict being major factors. The chart below shows the percent of U.S. adults comparing their stress during the holiday
season with other times of the year. Despite the challenges, most adults believe the stress is worth it, as the season possesses emotional connections and togetherness.
More information can be found atapa.org/news/press/ releases/2023/11/holidayseason-stress.
HolidayDrives
By Krista Smith
Human Bean
HOSTS HOLIDAY TOY DRIVE TO BENEFIT
SANTA COPS OF WELD COUNTY, SERVE 6.8 AND LIFE STORIES
As part of their annual tradition to bring cheer to children in need over the holidays, Human Bean Northern Colorado is hosting a toy drive from November 7 through December 1, 2024. Customers can bring new and unwrapped gifts for young children and teens to any of the 10 drive-thru locations. Customers who bring in a donation with a value of $10 or greater will receive a voucher for a free 20-ounce drink to be used in January 2025. Collected donations will be distributed to Santa Cops of Weld County, Serve 6.8 and Life Stories to deliver to children in their respective communities.
“Gifts for all ages, especially teens, are needed this year, and we are so grateful to these organizations that will help us distribute them to different areas of northern Colorado,” said Krista Smith, Assistant Director of Operations for The Human Bean. “There are so many
parents struggling to provide a joyous holiday for their children, it’s comforting for customers to know they could be helping a neighbor in their own town.”
To kick off the drive on Thursday, November 7, The Human Bean will be hosting each nonprofit at one of their locations for Guest Barista Day:
l Santa Cops of Weld County will be at 3310 23rd Avenue in Evans
l Serve 6.8 will be at 6180 E. Crossroads Boulevard in Loveland
l Life Stories will be at 3665 W. 10th Street in Greeley
Additionally, each of those three locations will be donating 10 percent of sales made on November 7.
Santa Cops of Weld County serves to promote a positive relationship between children and the law enforcement in their respective communities. Volun-
teers from the county’s police department hand delivers toys to children of families who apply to their program. Learn more about Santa Cops of Weld County at greeleypd.com/santa-cops.
Located in Loveland, Serve 6.8 is a Christian nonprofit organization that specializes in mobilizing, resourcing and connecting the local church to care for people in Northern Colorado. They partner with 50+ churches to provide direct care to those in need. For more information about Serve 6.8 visit serve68.org/.
Life Stories began in 1989 when United Way of Weld County recognized the need to improve the community’s response to child abuse. Today, the organization works to investigate criminal cases of child abuse and provides support for victims and non-offending family members. To learn more about Life Stories visit lifestoriesweld.org.
About Human Bean Northern
Colorado: Human Bean Northern Colorado has been locally owned and operated since 2004. Now with 10 separate locations, The Human Bean has become known as the leading coffee drive-thru in northern Colorado. For more information on The Human Bean’s community involvement, visit humanbeannortherncolorado.com.
Locations
l 6505 W. 29th Street, Greeley, CO 80634
l 405 E. Main Street, Windsor, CO 80550
l 3665 W. 10th Street, Greeley, CO 80634
l 6180 E. Crossroads Blvd, Loveland, CO 80538
l 2610 W. 10th Street, Greeley, CO 80634
l 3310 23rd Avenue, Evans, CO 80620
l Hwy 85, LaSalle, CO 80645
l 1822 S. College Avenue, Fort
Collins, CO 80525
l 821 N. College Avenue, Fort Collins, CO 80524
l 8121 6th Street, Wellington, CO 80549
Circle of different coffees. Unsplash
On TheLookout
Upcoming Holiday Events on the Front Range
By Ben Haney
As the holiday season approaches, Northern Colorado is bursting with festive events and artistic showcases that capture the spirit of the season. From the National Photography Show at the Lincoln Gallery to classic holiday performances like The Nutcracker and Let There Be Peace, local artists and performers are offering an array of cultural experiences for all ages.
Whether you’re looking to explore breathtaking photography, enjoy timeless ballet or sing along to Christmas carols and Neil Diamond hits, these events are perfect for celebrating the holidays while supporting local arts and culture.
National Photography Show and Holiday Gift Shop
The Lincoln Gallery in downtown Loveland is showcasing their 2024 National Photography Show from Nov. 8-Dec. 5,
Whiteside’s - The best selec tion of Work and Western Boots in Nor thern Colorado!
Fall Leaves.
Liana Mika / Unsplash
featuring top images from across the country. The juried exhibition, judged by off grid art, nature and adventure photographer Nathan Eigenfeld, displays works in four categories: landscapes, wildlife, people and architecture.
Opening on November 8 at the Lincoln Gallery, the show is a great way of supporting local businesses and small artists. Nov. 8-Dec. 5
Lincoln Gallery, 429 N. Lincoln Ave., Loveland, lincolngallery.com
“Let There Be Peace” Christmas Show
The Loveland Choral Society will present Let There Be Peace: A Christmas Celebration at the Rialto Theater from December 13-15. This holiday tradition will feature both new and familiar sacred carols, along with popular seasonal favorites, all accompanied by a live orchestra. Performances are scheduled for Friday, Dec. 13 at 7:30 p.m., Saturday, Dec. 14 at 3 p.m. and 7:30 p.m., and Sunday, Dec. 15 at 3 p.m.
This year marks Mike Robertson’s inaugural season as Artistic Director, bringing fresh direction while preserving the choir’s community connections and traditions. Dec. 13-15
The Rialto Theater, 228 E 4th Street, Loveland, lovelandchoralsociety.org
The Nutcracker by Canyon Concert Ballet at the Lincoln Center
The Canyon Concert Ballet’s annual performance of The Nutcracker will take place from December 4-8, 2024, at The Lincoln Center’s Performance Hall in Fort Collins. This holiday tradition is accompanied by live music from the Fort Collins Symphony and features a Nutcracker Boutique in the lobby. Audiences of all ages will enjoy the magical story of Clara, her Nutcracker and their adventures in a world filled with life-sized toys and dancing snowflakes.
Showtimes include evening performances and a Saturday matinee. Ticket prices range from $43 to $58, with a VIP experience available for $95, offering a pre-show
event where attendees can meet the cast and enjoy holiday treats.
Dec. 4-8
417 W. Magnolia St, Fort Collins lctix.com/shows-tickets /the-nutcracker-2
Jack Wright in Cherry Cherry Christmas, A Neil Diamond Holiday Tribute
Jack Wright’s A Neil Diamond Cherry Cherry Christmas is a holiday tribute performance at the Rialto Theater, blending Neil Diamond’s best-selling Christmas songs with his iconic Top 40 hits. This multimedia concert experience features holiday favorites, along with Diamond’s classic ballads and rock anthems, spanning five decades of his career.
Wright’s acclaimed production includes storytelling and song explanations, adding depth to the music and creating a family-friendly experience that promises to entertain audiences of all ages and get everyone into the Christmas spirit.
Dec. 4
The Rialto Theater, 228 E 4th St, Loveland
Caleb Gaston and Linda Snyder check out photos from the 2022 National Photography Show at Lincoln Gallery in Loveland. Close to three-dozen entries from the show will be on display through Dec. 1. Jocelyn Rowley/Loveland Reporter-Herald
NOVEMBER 1
upcoming noco events
Into the Woods by Stephen Sondheim and James Lapine
This mythic musical intertwines the plots of several Grimm fairytales as it examines the consequences of our human wishes and quests. As each character utters “I wish…,” we follow them into the subconscious woods. In fairytales’ unreal, mythic world, we see our humanity more clearly. Broadway veteran Noah Racey directs the annual fall musical. | No Charge for CSU Students, $10/youth (under 18), $15/senior (62+), $20/adult | November 1, 2, 7, 8, 9, 7:30 p.m.; matinees November 3, 10, 2 p.m. | Colorado State University School of the Arts, 1400 Remington Street, University Center for the Arts, Fort Collins.
NOVEMBER 1
Free for ALL Poetry
Opening Reception and Awards Ceremony
Celebrate a decade of community creativity with Windsor’s Free
for ALL exhibition! See the best of what our community artists can create in this exhibition open to all ages, mediums and styles. The exhibit runs through November 17 at the Art & Heritage Center and is free to attend. Stop by Friday, November 1 from 5:30-8 p.m. for our Poetry Opening Reception and hear from our winners and an open mic! We’ll have light refreshments and present our poetry awards. | 5:30 p.m. | Free | Art & Heritage Center, 116 5th Street, Windsor.
NOVEMBER 3
Percussion Ensemble Concert
Join the Percussion Ensemble, directed by Dr. Eric Hollenbeck, for an eclectic recital of chamber percussion ensemble works composed within the last ten years. Check the event listing at music.colostate.edu/events for potential changes or updates. Concert program guides/Playbills are available in a digital format only and may be viewed by scanning the QR code at the venue entrance or can be viewed in advance through a link on the ticketing site. | No Charge for CSU Students, $5/youth (under 18), $13/senior (62+), $15/adult | 6 p.m. | Colorado State University School of the Arts, 1400 Remington Street, University Center for the Arts, Fort Collins.
NOVEMBER 7
Waggin’ Tales
Practice reading with a licensed therapy dog! Great for beginning readers, but all are welcome. Come to the Children’s desk during or up to 30 minutes before the program to sign up your child/family for a session with the dog. Sessions are usually about 10-15 minutes long, as time allows. Please check our
online calendar for the latest schedule and cancellations. Cancellations are posted as early as possible. | Free | 4-5 p.m. | Loveland Public Library, 300 N. Adams, Loveland.
NOVEMBER 8
Big Hearts for Little Learners
Join us for an unforgettable evening dedicated to supporting child care initiatives in Larimer County! Event will include a silent auction featuring a selection of exclusive, high-value items and unique experiences donated by local businesses. This is a great opportunity to find holiday gifts while supporting a worthy cause. Enjoy hors d’oeuvres, cocktails and inspiring talks from speakers. Donations of $250 or more qualify for a 50% Colorado Child Care Contribution Tax Credit. Visit bit.ly/4dPV9dC to sign up. | Free | 6-8 p.m. | The Lincoln Center, 417 W. Magnolia Street, Fort Collins.
NOVEMBER 8-10
Greeley Home Expo
Whether you’re planning on upgrading your home or you need a reliable contractor to fix your leaking roof, the Greeley Home Expo is your place to find all local remodeling experts. We
host local and national exhibitors offering exclusive deals and discounts. Save time and money while at the Greeley Home Expo. | Friday 12-6 p.m., Saturday 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Sunday 11 a.m.-4 p.m. | Island Grove Event Center, 421 N 15th Ave, Greeley.
NOVEMBER 9
Pop-Up Park Picnic: Couple Date Night (Self-Guided) — Loveland Area!
Enjoy a fun pop-up picnic sunset date for couples! Since our a date nights are self-guided you can go any time on any day. Each date night consists of a series of activities that you are guided to complete. All you need is your own mobile device and an Internet connection to access your Digital Date Nite Box. At DNB several items are included in your digital date night box when we send it over with registration to create a night to remember! | Valued at over $20; we appreciate all couples that are able to support that amount, as it allows us to continue to bring creative fun outdoor dates for couples and ALL donations help us to keep this mission going (one ticket per couple). Have Fun! | 1-5 p.m. | North Lake Park, 2750 North Taft Avenue, Loveland.
NOVEMBER 10
Ginger and Baker October Market
Join us at the Thanksgiving Makers Market in the Teaching Kitchen! Discover unique handmade goods, local crafts and festive treats. Perfect for holiday shopping and gifting!
Local Makers Include: Press Love Wildflowers, Åberg Leather, Mélina Be, NoCo Apothecary, Sun & Stone Collective, Beldamia, Rare Equipment. | Free | 10 a.m.-4
p.m. | Giber and Baker, 359 Linden Street, Fort Collins.
NOVEMBER 11-16
Go West Film Festival
Help celebrate our 10th birthday by joining us for movie perspectives of the West, as well as a sampling of films shown during our first decade. Whether we reminisce about timeless classic westerns or view them for the first time, westerns always set the screen ablaze! As always, audience members are invited to linger after every presentation for a moderated conversation about the films. There is no admission charge to movies and events! Festival venues for 2024 are the Kress Cinema and Lounge, the new Library Innovation Center (LINC) in downtown
Greeley, and Lindou Auditorium in Michener Library, on the campus of the University of Northern Colorado. See gowestfilmfest.org for a full schedule. | Free | Various venues, Greeley.
NOVEMBER 14
A History of Fort Collins Through Postcard Views
A fascinating book with full-color illustrations will be reviewed and signed by its local authors from 6-7:30 p.m., Thursday, Nov. 14, at the Global Village Museum of Arts and Cultures. The book, which focuses on the city from the late 19th to early 20th century, is a great gift for anyone interested in Fort Collins history and the evolution of postcard design. “Postcards are an avenue to illuminate and preserve the historical heritage of Fort Collins at both an individual and community level,” said Mike Viney, co-author with Wayne Sundberg and Meg Dunn. Reservations are requested at globalvillagemuseum.org. Copies of the book will be available for purchase and signing by the authors. | $5 per person | 6 p.m. | Global Village Museum of Arts and Cultures, 200 West Mountain Avenue, Fort Collins.
NOVEMBER 15-17
Vintage Market Days®
Northern Colorado — “Oh What Fun”
Vintage Market Days of Northern Colorado is an upscale,
vintage-inspired, indoor/outdoor market featuring original art, antiques, clothing, jewelry, handmade treasures, home décor, outdoor furnishings, consumable yummies, seasonal plantings and a little more. Vintage Market Days is celebrating 10 years of bringing the vintage experience to you! We are so excited to present our Holiday Event, coming to Northern Colorado November 15-17. |
University Symphony Orchestra Concert: Two Nutcrackers
the University Symphony Orchestra, directed by Dr. Rachel Waddell, teams up with the Jazz Ensemble I, directed by Wil Swindler, and CSU Dance, to present two Nutcracker Suites: Piotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky’s and Duke Ellington’s. Join us as we experience the famed holiday classical in a new way, paired with other works for studio orchestra featuring the confluence of jazz and the symphony orchestra.
of the Arts, 1400 Remington Street, University Center for the Arts, Fort Collins.
NOVEMBER 28-29
Thanksgiving Holiday
Offices in all cities will be closed on Thursday, November 28 for the Thanksgiving holiday as well as Friday, November 29.
NOVEMBER 30
Indie Arts Market Greeley 30+ vendors such as Armando Silva, Illuman Apiary, and many others display their handmade goods like paintings, clothing, jewelry, and even honey. We are so thankful for our hosts John Galt Coffee and the Atlas Theater. They are open year-round for events and hang outs of every kind. Coffee and treats available. indieartsgreeley.com | 10 a.m.-4 p.m. | Atlas Theater, 709 16th Street, Greeley.
| No Charge/ CSU Students, $5/ youth (under 18), $13/senior (62+), $15/adult | 7:30 p.m. | Colorado State University School
Enjoy the flavors of fall without the
HeavyDishes
By Meredith Deeds
Some falls are better than others. Some are more colorful, crisp and cool, while others are just cold. Then there are those “second summers” that creep deep into fall, only to be replaced by, well, winter.
This year feels like the latter, but even if the frost hasn’t covered the pumpkins yet, I’m still going to work in as many fall flavors as I can. I’ll just shift from my normal autumnal fare of hot and hearty comfort foods to something a little lighter, like a salad.
Although the summer tomato season has passed, that doesn’t mean we have to pass on salads. There are plenty of fall ingredients we can toss with a delicious dressing and some greens. One of my favorites is apples.
First Kiss, Zestar, SweeTango and many more apple varieties are easy to find and delicious when added to a green salad.
In this week’s recipe, any one of these would be welcomed, tossed along with crisp romaine in a creamy honey-mustard dressing. Nutty cubes of Gruyère cheese are added, along with crunchy toasted hazelnuts. The result is a complex salad, packed with interesting textures and flavors.
I would serve this salad alongside any simple roasted meat or
poultry.
Or, if you’d like to transform this salad into more of a main dish, you could certainly add a handful or two of shredded chicken to the mix.
No matter what kind of fall we’re in store for this year, don’t let it stop you from enjoying the flavors of the season.
Romaine, Apple, Hazelnut and Gruyère Salad with Creamy Honey-Mustard Dressing Serves 4.
There’s no better way to celebrate than with this flavorful autumnal salad. From Meredith Deeds.
For the dressing
l 3 tbsp. heavy cream
l 2 tbsp. cider vinegar
l 1 tbsp. honey
l 1 tbsp. whole grain Dijon mustard
l 1 tsp. Dijon mustard
l 1/2 tsp. salt
l 1/4 tsp. freshly ground black pepper
l 2 tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil
For the salad
l 8 c. chopped romaine lettuce
l 1 medium crisp apple, cored and thinly sliced
l 4 oz. cubed Gruyère
l 1/2 c. roughly chopped toasted, skinned hazelnuts
Directions
Prepare the dressing: In a small bowl, combine the cream, vinegar, whole grain mustard, Dijon mustard, honey, salt and pepper. Whisk in olive oil and set aside.
Prepare the salad: In a medium bowl, add romaine lettuce, apples and 6 tablespoons dressing.
Toss to coat. Add more dressing, if desired. Transfer to serving platter or plates. Scatter the Gruyère and hazelnuts over the top. Serve immediately.
