MyWindsor - October 2023

FUTURE LEGENDS ADDING WOMEN'S SOCCER TO ROSTER

HERO

OWNER OF ABC DEVELOPMENT CENTER AND BRIGHT SCHOOL-AGE CENTERS

CONTINUES FAMILY COMMITMENT TO QUALITY EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATION

OnTheCover Crystal Landscape S

Scott Bright continues his family's more than 50 years of dedication to early childhood education through the ABC Child Development Centers located in Windsor, Evans and

Publisher Jill Stravolemos, jill@greeleytribune com

Editor

Tamara Markard

Graphic Designer

Layne Petersen

Marketing Features Coordinator

Greg Stone

Contributing Writers And Photographers Ken Amundson, Morgan McKenzie, Jim Rydbom, Sandi Y Squicquero, Jadyn Watson-Fisher

NOTES FROM TOWN HALL

MYWINDSOR MAGAZINE

PO Box 337228, Greeley, CO 80633-7228 www.GreeleyTribune.com/Special-Sections

Published by Prairie Mountain Media, publisher of The Greeley Tribune

upplies Pavers Flagstone Arena Mix Decorative Rock Driveway Materials Crystal Landscape Supplies (970) 669-3565 6616 N. Garfield Ave. Loveland, 80538 Locally Owned and Operated • We Deliver! www.crystallandscapesupplies.com From Flagstone to Firewood, Grass/Sod, Edging, ContractorGrade Landscaping Fabric and so much more, we’ve got you covered. See ourwebsite forcomplete list of products/ prices and useful tips. BlackMonzonite ...¾’’or1½” $76.00 TigerButter .1½” $109.00 Limestone ..¾”or1½” $57.00 IndianSummer .1½” $125.00 LavaRock-Black...................1½”........................$155.00 MountainGranite............¾”or1½”......................$72.00 DECORATIVEROCK PRICE/TON ColoradoBuffBoulders $235.00 GraniteBoulders $235.00 OnyxBoulders $350.00 BOULDERS PRICE/TON Bark-Medium..........................................................$97.00 PlaygroundMulch.....................................................$48.00 ShreddedRedwood...................................................$82.00 ChocolateMulch $39.00 ShreddedCedar $75.00 CoffeeMulch $39.00 MULCHESANDBARK PRICE/YARD PeatMoss..................................................................$159.00 GardenMix(50/30/20) $52.00 PlantMix(60/40) $42.00 ScreenedCompost....................................................$45.00 ScreenedFillDirt $19.00 ScreenedTopSoil $29.00 SOIL/SOILMIXES PRICE/YARD 10% OFF Materials Not valid with any other offer Expires: Sunday, November 5, 2023 Flagstone Colorado Red $275 /ton Colorado Buff $395 /ton Expires: Sunday, November 5, 2023 10% OFF Delivery Fee Expires: Sunday November 5 2023 $75 Minimum Purchase required to use coupons, One coupon per transaction please Must present coupon prior to pickup. Discounts will not be applied to previous invoices.

Greeley Photo by James Rydbom

Andy Klatt Introduces Youngsters to the World of Golf P L U S

For all editorial, advertising and circulation inquiries, call 970 352 0211 Send editorial-related comments and story ideas to: tmarkard@greeleytribune.com.

For advertising inquiries contact Advertising at Advertising@GreeleyTribune com

Physical education is much more than just getting a bunch of little kids to burn off some of their energy.

NOTES FROM TOWN HALL

Keeping up on the happenings in local Windsor town government.

KIDDIE ACADEMY

A new child development center breaks ground in Windsor, looking to open in 2024

BOUND OUTWARD

Windsor high school student Zev Gatto participates in Rocky Mountain Conservancy High School Leadership Corps

WINDSOR DOWNTOWN

The town looks to create permanent parking on the “backlots” next to the railroad tracks.

SPORTS

Future Legends adding Professional Women’s Soccer in USL W League expansion.

COMMUNITY CALENDAR

Say hello to October by getting out and about in Windsor at these fun events.

HOMETOWN HEROES

Grandview Elementary Physical Education teacher Andy Klatt is looking to be known as a ‘movement specialist ’

BIZ411

Samantha Ruth, founder of GriefHub, looks to help navigate challinging and trying times.

FEATURE STORY

Scott Bright, owner of ABC Child Development Centers, continues his family’s legacy of providing quality early childhood education.

TREAT YOURSELF TO WELLNESS

Helping men rcognize symptoms as well as possible causes of depression.

FACES OF THE FUTURE

Recent Windsor graduate Joanna Pugliese.

Fall is hands-down my absolute favorite time of year

Growing up in the California desert, the fall season just meant that temperatures would hover just below 100-degrees that is, if we were lucky There were no changing of the leaves, that crisp smell in the morning air or homes decorated with the typical fall décor of pumpkins, hay bales and scarecrows

For me, the fall season as a kid was marked by sun, heat, a really sweaty Halloween costume and an orange plastic pumpkin bucket filled with melted candy

So when I moved to Colorado, I really began to appreciate what each season brings to the state as well as the accompanying events and activities

And when it comes to activities, this month’s Community Calendar is filled with festive fallthemed fun for all ages

From cemetery tours and a spooky volunteer

park maintenance opportunity to local restaurants hosting NFL games and the annual Halloween Carnival, Windsor is ushering in the fall season with style

In addition to upcoming events, check out MyWindsor’s feature on Scott Bright, owner of ABC Child Development Centers, to learn how he is leading the charge to provide quality early childhood education for youngsters across the state

Grandview Elementary Physical Education teacher Andy Klatt is October’s Hometown Hero and Notes from Town Hall keeps readers updated on the goings on around town.

Check out these stories and more in this month’s edition of MyWindsor

As always, I appreciate the community’s feedback and suggestions, so send them my way at TMarkard@greeleytribune com

Happy fall y ’all!

Tamara Markard Editor

BY TAMARA MARKARD

Whether it’s a teacher who inspires students to be their best, a kid who shovels the driveway for their elderly neighbors or a company that donates services, time and products to the community, there’s no shortage of local heroes in our community

MyWindsor’s Hometown Heroes is a way to recognize and thank the people and companies who strive to make our community better through their time, talents, generosity and kindness

Do you know a person, business or organization that would make a great story for the Hometown Heroes feature? Then send their name and contact information to Tamara Markard at tmarkard@ greeleytribune.com.

For Andy Klatt, physical education is much more than just getting a bunch of little kids outside to burn off some of their unending energy.

Klatt, a physical education teacher

at Grandview Elementary, uses his position to help kids learn selfconfidence, patience, discipline and more through sports and games

Klatt began his career teaching at Platte Valley Youth Corrections where he designed a curriculum for the State of Colorado for reoffending males. After leaving the corrections facility, he taught students at Tozer and Mountain View elementary schools before landing at Grandview Elementary

You won’t find students in Klatt’s P.E. classes simply jumping rope or kicking a ball around Klatt likes to incorporate activities such as archery, lacrosse and fly-fishing into his curriculum to keep kids engaged

“I like to try to find the most innovative new things. I teach a lot of what I was taught,” Klatt said “It’s just exposing them to things outside of the traditional football, basketball and soccer It’s

promoting health and wellness in a variety of different ways ”

When MyWindsor visited with Klatt, he was in the middle of teaching students about golf

“There’s a PGA grant and I had signed up for this grant when I taught at Mountain View Elementary School,” Klatt said. “So I teach the kids what each club is, what’s their pitch, what’s their velocity so they’re getting a lot of math. We talk about turf management, so you have your agricultural spin ”

Using special balls, called BirdieBalls, and striker pads, kids armed with clubs fled out into the school’s field to practice their swings.

On Oct. 16, Klatt and his crew of kids will be paying a visit to the RainDance Golf Course to learn more about the industry and sport, including the different types of mowers used on courses, how to maintain sand traps and how the sod for the golf course is grown

Grandview Elementary teacher Andy Klatt teaches physical education during a recent class at the school in Windsor Klatt has been a long time teacher in the RE-4 school district (Jim Rydbom/Staff Photographer)

THE SAYING “NOT ALL HEROES WEAR CAPES” IS SO TRUE WHEN IT COMES TO PEOPLE WHO CONTRIBUTE AND GIVE BACK TO THEIR COMMUNITY.

Grandview Elementary Physical Education teacher

While sports are the foundation of Klatt’s classes, students are also introduced to other educational subjects such as math and science

“If you could take the word ‘PE ’ out and you could become a ‘movement specialist,’ people would actually see how much a physical education teacher teaches math, reading and science and how this class impacts their normal day,” Klatt explained “Physical education has evolved into a whole different thing now ”

In addition to teaching kids the importance of exercise and keeping their bodies in shape, Klatt has created a school garden and after-school garden club to introduce the nutrition side of things to his students

“They know it’s 547,000 gallons of water per an acre-foot. They know it takes two ears of corn for a box of cornflakes and 20-gallons of water to grow two ears of corn, ” Klatt said proudly.

Klatt uses the produce grown in the school’s garden to teach students how

to make healthy snacks using what they grow, such as salsa, lemon-cottage cheese protein pancakes and apple butter

His efforts with the school’s garden and nutrition education earned Klatt the 2019 National Excellence in Teaching About Agriculture Award.

Klatt has been teaching and coaching in the northern Colorado area for so many years that he’s now starting to see kids of former students pass through the halls.

“I coached his dad at Greeley West High School,” Klatt said, pointing to one

of his students

While Klatt goes to the same office in the gym and sees the same grass in the field five days a week, no two days are the same when your job involves dealing with kids especially younger kids

“Every time you think you ’ ve seen or watched something, there’s a new spin I’ve got stories on top of stories,” Klatt said, laughing “You hope that you can build that legacy with kids to where you are going to graduations and weddings. The whole concept of the impact that you have on other people’s lives that’s so rewarding ”

Grandview Elementary teacher Andy Klatt is a hometown hero to many of his past and current students in the RE-4 school district in Windsor (Jim Rydbom/Staff Photographer)

SAMANTHA RUTH FOUNDER OF

G frie Hab

Each month MyWindsor highlights a local business to share what services and products it offers the community.

From plumbers to pet shops and breweries to hardware stores, and everything in between, every business plays a part in the success of a community.

Do you know of a business that would be a great candidate for the Biz 411 feature?

Send the name of the business and any contact information to Tamara Markard at tmarkard@ greeleytribune.com.

osing a loved one, friend or coworker can be hard Even the loss of a pet can be devastating for some people.

Navigating grief can be confusing and one person ’ s journey to healing can be totally different from another person ’ s journey

Michigan native-turned-Windsor resident Samantha Ruth knows all to well the mental and physical tolls grief can take on a person

Ruth’s world was turned upside down and inside out when her husband Jim Ruth unexpectedly died in 2017.

As a licensed psychologist who had experience helping others maneuver through challenging and trying times, Ruth’s family, friends and even herself, thought that she would know the ins and outs of dealing with grief.

However, she struggled to heal and move forward

“At that point, I didn’t care about anything and I learned that there were no grief support services anywhere I couldn’t find the help I needed,” Ruth explained “The world expected me to know what to do quicker So at approaching one year I made the decision to take a second year to heal ”

Her decision to continue to step back from work and focus on her healing brought comments of “You’re still not going back to work?,” “It’s been a year, you should be past this” and other misconceptions people have about death and grief.

Seeing a gap in grief services and support, Ruth founded GriefHab, which she touts as “rehab for grief.”

GriefHab offers clients mental health counseling from a psychologist combined with “concierge-level” support with handling all of the details and tasks associated with loss such as estate paperwork and meal delivery.

“I needed help with everything A light bulb burning out felt like the end of the world for me. You are going through so much pain that any other little thing that goes wrong feels like the end of the world,” she explained. “I’ll do things like get the death certificate, close accounts and other things like that There’s so much that needs to be done and that can interfere with healing You can give me what stresses you out so you can focus on your healing.”

Ruth has also “made it her business” to get the word out about National Grief Awareness Week, which is set for Dec 2-8 this year

Samantha Ruth is a licensed psychologist, best-selling author and founder of GriefHab (Courtesy/Samantha Ruth)

BY TAMARA MARKARD

th

“Seriously, it’s just avoided and the world ignores it Not only do I want to help people during the holidays, I want to get this on the calendar,” Ruth said “There’s Hot Dog Day, Donut Day and so many other silly fun things on the calendar But we can’t help people if no one knows about it ”

The campaign is designed to raise awareness of all aspects of grief and loss as well as normalize the concept of grief on a national scale, according to Awarenessdays com

In addition to GriefHab, Ruth produces The Be Ruthless Show on Apple Podcasts and YouTube

She uses these platforms to talk about a variety of mental health issues and topics, not just grief.

To check out her podcast, go to https://bit ly/3EK1JDt and her YouTube channel can be found at

(Courtesy/Samantha Ruth)

https://bit.ly/3Pqk3pY.

Ruth has also written and co-written several books, such as “Life Lessons In Success: Wisdom to Win the Game of Life” and “Faces of Mental Illness.”

Ruth still wears her wedding ring and her husband’s ring hangs from a chain around her neck She also has no plans to date or remarry

“He really is the only person I’ve ever loved I don’t want to date I don’t see it happening and people are not OK with that,” Ruth said “They say ‘ you ’ re so young’. But my friends have filled that space ”

When not advocating for mental health services and raising awareness for grief support, Ruth enjoys taking her two dogs, Sassy and Dallas, out for walks, journaling and enjoying what the outdoors in Colorado has to offer.

2023

Women Gala

Honoring Six Outstanding Women of Weld County

Saturday, October 7, 2023

7:30 PM at the AIMS Community College Welcome Center Auditorium

Entertainment provided by:

Singer/Songwriter Azanet Rodriguez and Singer/Songwriter Gii Astorga

Proceeds benefit A Woman's Place, Inc., the only domestic violence shelter in Weld County

viole

Spon Presenting

Media Sponsor: nsors:

arrico Family Fou

ndation

GriefHab

is a

service that honors client's mental and emotional well-being by combining support with concierge-level care in handling all of the details that can often feel burdensome and overwhelming when navigating a loss.

Diane Miller Community Leader

Emma Peña-McCleave Community Empowerment

Erin Brady Community Advocate

Karen Trusler Leader in Education

Karent Plasencia Community Champion

Laurie Berdahl Advocate for Youth Health

BY TAMARA MARKARD

SCOTTBRIGHT

OWNER OF ABC CHILD

DEVELOPMENT CENTERS,

CONTINUES HIS FAMILY’S LEGACY OF PROVIDING QUALITY EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATION

Early childhood education is the time from when a child is born until they start kindergarten.

Early childhood education includes not only teaching little ones how to walk and talk, but how to interact with other humans and process emotions

Pre-school and Pre-K programs also helps youngsters discover

interests that they can continue throughout their lives, such as art, music and sports.

Scott Bright, a third-generation owner of ABC Child Development Centers, is working to provide quality early childhood education for youngsters in Windsor and around Weld County.

Bright has 25 licensed centers

across Weld County, including Evans and Ault

“Some of them are school-aged programs so they are based in elementary schools and some of them are stand alone childcare centers, like ABC and some are stand alone preschool centers,” Bright explained. “So we do preschool, we do childcare, we do school-aged child care; we do a lot of things ”

Bright’s family opened their first center in 1967 on 12th Avenue in Greeley, which is still in operation

“My grandmother started it in 1967 and my mom purchased the company from her in 1972 When my mom decided to retire in 2018, I purchased it from her,” Bright said “So I’ve been working for my mom, with my mom since I was in high school.”

The National Education Association, NEA, reports that children who attend early childhood education programs are:

• Less likely to repeat a grade

Owner of the ABC Child Development Center Scott Bright stands outside the location in Windsor. (Jim Rydbom/Staff Photographer)

The safety, security and health of its children are top priorities for ABC Child Development Centers and programs. (Courtesy/ABC Child Development Centers)

• Less likely to be identified as having special needs

• More prepared academically for later grades

• More likely to graduate from high school

• Higher earners in the workforce

Early childhood programs also help break down structural barriers that prevent children, especially children of color and children from disadvantaged families, from achieving their full potential, the NEA added

Many times, the first question Bright gets from parents is “how much does it cost?”

However, that’s not the first thing parents should be asking Bright and his team work with parents to educate them on what they should be looking for when it comes to preschool and pre-k programs for their little ones

Some of the questions parents need to ask include:

• What sort of environment will my child be in?

• What sort of activity centers do you have in the classroom?

• What is the teacher to child ratio?

• What sort of training has teachers had?

• What sorts of language development tools are used?

• What do you do with the kids to make sure they are ready for school?

• Do you feed children lunch and/or snacks?

• What USDA approved menus do you follow?

“There’s so many more important things to early childhood education than what it costs. If you were to go get cancer treatment or brain surgery, would that be the first question that you asked, ‘how much does it cost?” Bright said “This is the development of your child from zero to five. A majority of development happens between the ages of zero to five. If you ’ re only asking how much does

it cost, you ’ re not asking the right questions ”

ABC offers a variety of perks for parents who enroll their children in programs. One of the perks includes teaching kids how to swim.

“We feel that is a really important life skill and we teach every child who goes through our program how to swim. And we do it for free; it's included with tuition,” Bright said “Those sorts of things we feel adds to the complete development of the child It doesn’t have anything to do with preschool, it doesn’t have anything to do with childcare, but we feel like we have the opportunity to supply that to our families. ”

While childcare is one of the more heavily regulated industries in Colorado, Bright holds his centers to an even higher standard ABC Child Development Centers follows the state’s quality program, Colorado Shines

The program rates the quality of licensed childcare and preschool programs, helps centers continuously improve the quality of services they offer and shows families that a center is dedicated to providing quality care and education to children.

“The Shine’s quality evaluation system essentially comes in and takes a really close look over the course of a whole month of evaluation,” Bright said “They make sure the kids have different activity centers that they can

engage in and work through as well as make sure that the teacher/child interactions are high quality

“You can have all the coolest, newest toys and all that but if the teacher/child interactions aren’t rich in brain development, then it doesn’t really do a lot.”

Every single one of Bright’s centers that has gone through the Colorado Shine rating has earned a top score of five

“We are really proud of that There aren’t many centers around Colorado that are rated five and our centers are, ” he said “We are proud to offer that high quality experience to families in Windsor, Greeley, Evans and Ault.”

Bright is working to take his passion for early childhood education to the state’s capital with a run for the seat in Senate District 13.

“I’ve watched some pretty significant policy shifts happen at state level within legislation just because of one voice that was in the right place at the right time I’ve been very involved in in legislation and watching some changes in policy happen in early childhood education over the last few years and I’ve realized that there is a gap right now in the state legislator And the gap is

early childhood education,” Bright said “I think that state legislature needs a real early childhood education voice and I am looking forward to seeing what the future might hold there I want to make sure that the early childhood education house is in order when it’s being built.”

Bright is the current board chair of the Early Childhood Education Association of Colorado, chair of the Colorado Early Education Network, former executive director and board chair of CEEN Head Start of Weld County and member of Colorado “Preschool 4 All” Policy Committee

When not advocating for early childhood education, Bright is chasing his other passion, exploring everything Colorado has to offer on two wheels.

“I started riding in the Colorado Mountains as a child with my family. Experiencing the great outdoors on two wheels is foundational to our family’s existence,” Bright commented in his Speed & Sport Adventures bio

Bright has served on the Colorado Trail Preservation Alliance Board, Colorado OHV Grant Subcommittee and the Rocky Mountain Enduro Circuit.

He is also a Dakar Rally finisher, four-time International Six Days Enduro competitor, has over 25 years in the Rocky Mountain Enduro Circuit AA Class and has been a guide for the Colorado 600 Trails Awareness Symposium for over 10 years

For more information on ABC Child Development Center, including schoolage programs, center locations and free preschool opportunities, go to abccdc.com.

A variety of positive messages fill the walls at the ABC Development Center at the Windsor location. (Jim Rydbom/Staff Photographer)

Students at the ABC Child Development Center in Windsor learn during a recent day at the local school. The center can take as many as 162 students.(Jim Rydbom/Staff Photographer)

Windsor, Colorado is home to a dedicated real estate maven who is making waves in the industry. Ryan White, one of the vibrant forces behind RE/MAX Alliance, has not only carved a niche for himself but also charmed his way into the hearts of Windsor’s residents

With six years under his belt as a Windsor resident and realtor, Ryan brings a native’s insight and passion to his work. “I love helping people accomplish the American Dream of owning real estate,” he shares It’s this genuine commitment that has earned him accolades, including being named the Board of REALTORs 2016 Rookie of the Year and 2020 Young Professional of the Year.

Ryan’s love for the community is palpable He revels in the small-town charm and diverse offerings Windsor provides.

Jeff Zapp is not just a door distributor; he’s a master craftsman and a guardian of homes’ first impressions. As the CEO of The Door Dudes, Jeff’s journey is a testament to his unwavering commitment to quality, sustainability, and the art of making a house a home

At The Door Dudes, they are creators of custom-made wooden entry doors, interior doors, and garage doors. With a collective industry experience of 28 years, they are dedicated to delivering top-quality products and services, proudly offering wholesale distribution and retail installation of exceptional doors, serving builders, general contractors and homeowners

Their products include doors with copper exteriors to structural modifications that transform windows into doors For builders and contractors, they handle all

logistics, including job site delivery

Jeff and his team prioritize sustainability. They source premium clear or knotty cedar from Alaska for their garage doors, ensuring durability and aesthetic appeal Their entry doors are 100% solid wood, designed for longevity

“We invest significant time and effort into every aspect of our business to deliver exceptional quality and customer satisfaction,” says Jeff Their doors are more than just functional; they’re an artful gateway to the heart of a home

As Jeff and The Door Dudes continue their mission of crafting extraordinary doors and homes, Windsor residents can rest assured that they have a champion of quality and sustainability Jeff’s passion for his craft and dedication to the community make him a true Windsor treasure.

From floating down the Poudre River to enjoying a cold beer at Peculiar, he’s an active participant in the town’s vibrant life. Despite recent market challenges, Ryan remains unwavering in his resolve. His knack for finding solutions and his marriage to a home builder have proven invaluable in tackling hurdles head-on Off-duty, Ryan is a family man who relishes hiking, biking, fishing, and attending concerts a true Colorado enthusiast His advice to young women is simple but powerful: “Never be afraid to chase your dreams”

As Ryan continues to make Windsor shine in the real estate realm, his passion and dedication are testaments to the boundless possibilities within reach for anyone with a dream and the drive to pursue it

TREAT O S Y R ELF

N W SS ELL E : TO

BY SANDI Y. SQUICQUERO

The diagnostic definition of depression is the same for all individuals, however the expression of symptoms of depression can differ from person to person

As a result, the symptoms of male depression are sometimes not as commonly recognized by health care professionals, despite them following the same diagnostic criteria for both men and women.

The “Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders,” or DSM-5, is divides symptoms of depression into two sub groups psychological and physical

Psychological symptoms can include:

• Depressed mood

• Reduction in interest or pleasure in activities

• Feelings of guilt

• Recurring thoughts of suicide or harming oneself

Physical symptoms can include sleep disturbances, changes in weight, changes in appetite, difficulty concentrating and psychomotor disturbances, or the slowing or reduction of physical movement

Men with depression tend to experi-

Helping Recognize Symptoms as well as Possible Causes

ence feelings of irritability, hostility, aggressiveness and fatigue, problems with concentration or remembering details, overeating or not wanting to eat at all, and/or inability to meet responsibilities at work.

Social, biological and psychological factors such as overwhelming stress at work or home, marital or relationship problems, loss or discontentment at a job, not reaching important goals, failing family responsibilities, financial worries and retirement fears can all play a role in depression in men.

According to Dr Gail Saltz, author of “Anatomy of a Secret Life: Are the People

in Your Life Hiding Something,” men are less likely to think they are suffering from depression because they often externalize their feelings, blaming the “bad boss” or their partner

Saltz also states that men are more likely to use alcohol or drugs as an outlet, making it difficult for others to see

While women attempt suicide more often than men do, men are more likely to complete suicide. (Credit/ Shutterstock)

Depression signs and symptoms can differ in men and women. Men also tend to use different coping skills when it comes to dealing with depression. (Credit/Shutterstock)

the signs of depression

Depression affects one out of five adults in the United States and in 2021, the Centers for Disease Control, CDC, reported an estimated 14.5 million adults age 18 and older in the U S had at least one major depressive episode with severe impairment.

At one time, depression was considered a “ woman ’ s disease” or “female problem,” which may have contrib-

uted to men with depression from recognizing the symptoms and contacting their health professional for treatment

Perhaps this is because men are viewed as having to be “emotionally strong” and any suggestion of emotion is defined as a female trait. Depression is not a sign of weakness or a lack of masculinity in men.

Men in the U S are also four times more likely than women to commit suicide. While more women attempt suicide, more men are successful in the completion of the act

The consequences of untreated depression in men, and women, can be catastrophic

There is no single cause of depression in men, however if not treated, depres-

sion can lead to heart disease and other serious illnesses.

Everyone experiences low moods at times that can make them feel sad, irritable or cause problems sleeping.

It’s when those low feelings persist and last for weeks and your quality of life has changed that it is important to seek help by a qualified professional.

Not every depression is severe, but all depression can be treated and with treatment men can return to a quality and happy life

For additional reading, check out “Why Am I So Depressed?” by Vanessa Thompson and “I Don’t Want To Talk About It: Overcoming the Secret Legacy of Male Depression” by Terrance Rea.

Sandi Y. Squicquero M.Ed,.LPC, is a licensed professional counselor who works out of the Medical Hypnosis and Counseling Center at 1180 Main St , Suite 5B in Windsor She has more than 30 years experience as a counselor and is board-certified in medical hypnosis

Sometimes men experiencing depression will turn to alcohol or drugs to help manage their moods. (Credit/Shutterstock)

BY TAMARA MARKARD

JOANNA PUGLIESE

The future of a community lies in its youth. As elders pass on and leadership roles are handed down to the next generation, it’s the young people that will shape the future of a community as well as the nation.

Some of these young men and women are athletes and musicians, while others are making waves in the world of academics and community service No matter what their achievements, they all help shape our community one way or another Each month, MyWindsor will feature students from Windsor high schools for the Faces of the Future feature

If you know of a high school student that would be a good candidate for the Faces of the Future feature, send their name and contact information to Tamara Markard at tmarkard@ greeleytribune.com.

This month, MyWindsor introduces readers to Severance High School 2023 grad Joanna Pugliese.

School: Severance High School Grade: Graduated 2023

What was your favorite subject in school and why? I loved art classes! I have always had such kind and supportive teachers that have helped my confidence grow in both art and myself I have found that they helped my ability to express myself exponentially. What clubs, sports and other extracurricular activities are you a part of? I am the secretary of the National Honor Society Chapter, the secretary of the Literary Magazine and a vocalist for my church’s worship team In the past, I also managed the E-Sports team and was in theater productions at high school How did being part of sports, clubs and/or other extracurricular activities shape your high

school career? I cannot express my love for my extracurricular activities I was homeschooled the last two years of middle school, and I was very nervous to start high school Going from the kitchen table to an entire school is a nerveracking adjustment Being in many clubs and activities helped me make friends and find my niche. Without everything I did in high school, I probably wouldn’t have found my confidence in the world.

From athletes and musicians to class presidents and stand-out scholars, the youth of Windsor play an important part in the future of the community

Joanna Pugliese is a 2023 graduate from Severance High School. (Courtesy/Joanna Pugliese)

What were some of the goals you had for your high school career? I definitely hope that I left my mark at my school. Tradition was a big theme at Severance High School Looking back, I hope that the care and effort I put into the school’s culture helps someone I also was so proud to have been a straightA student. My grandpa used to give me one dollar for every A I had in elementary school, so maybe I should cash in my high school transcript soon just kidding! Being proud of who I was in high school is a big achievement that I’m glad I could make

What are some things you would like to see changed in your community? In my perfect world, no child would ever feel like an outcast Obviously, there are many things societally and systematically that

prevent that from happening I would love to see more time and energy invested into the artistic communities at school. The arts have always been a place of solace for so many, so seeing those communities get under-appreciated by others truly hurts. What are some things you enjoy about Windsor? One thing I love about Windsor is its close-knit community

What are your future aspirations? I am planning on attending the University of Northern Colorado in the fall to study psychology I would love to pursue children’s psychology and behavioral studies, possibly working with children who have been negatively affected by social media I plan on staying in northern Colorado to invest in the community that gave so much to me

Notes

BY TAMARA MARKARD

With so much going on with life, work and home, it can be tough to keep up on the happenings in local government

While you can stream Windsor Board meetings online anytime, sitting through the program can be tedious

MyWindsor’ s Notes from Town Hall can help you keep track of the issues going on throughout Windsor without doing any leg work

Town Board

During the Town Board meeting on July 24, Mayor Paul Rennemeyer reported that the Downtown Development Authority awarded the master plan contract to RVI Planning.

The DDA also asked the Town Board to consider raising the number of members on its board from seven to nine.

In an effort to rebrand the DDA, the organization voted to change its legal name to the Windsor Downtown Alliance

The Town Board approved Resolution No. 2023-37 on July 24, which allows an incentive agreement for Microvast Energy, LLC. Microvast Energy, LLC. assembles lithium-ion battery storage containers for distribution across the United States.

The company is under contract to purchase the former Hexcel building

from

at 31815 Great Western Drive with considerations to purchase additional space in the Great Western Industrial Park as needed

The Town Board also reported at the meeting that “economic development is continuing to attract unique restaurants throughout Windsor ”

According to the report, the town no longer has any empty restaurant spaces now that Wing Shack opened in the former Lonesome Buck space and a café-style eatery is interested in taking over the space that once housed the Tipsy Cricket.

At the Town Board’s Aug 24 meeting, Mayor Pro Tem Barry Wilson reported that that I-25 Coalition stated that the town’s portion of the project is still slated to be completed by Dec 18

Town Board Member Victor Tallon reported that the Chamber of Commerce will be moving its office and has undergone a “brand refresh ”

The chamber is also looking at a new idea where they receive sponsorships year-round rather than just rely on dues to cover operation costs

Liquor Licensing Authority

At its July 13 meeting, the group approved granting a Special Event Permit for the Windsor Area Chamber of Commerce’s Ugly Sweater Wine Walk, set for Saturday, Nov. 18 in downtown

During its Aug 9 meeting, the authority approved a liquor license renewal for Windsor Discount Liquor

Notes from Town Hall features some of the latest news from Windsor Town Board and commission meetings as well as press releases from public services and public safety (Greeley Tribune file photo)

A scene from last year’s Ugly Sweater Wine Walk downtown.

(Source: visitwindsorco)

The Woodmont Co., headquartered in Fort Worth, Texas, has broken ground on a Windsor development that will become the Kiddie Academy of Windsor, a child development center

The Kiddie Academy of Windsor is owned by local franchisees Nanette Cohen and Devon Cohen, owners of Today’s Life LLC based in Fort Collins. The academy offers a childhood education curriculum focused on social, emotional and academic growth.

“By bringing both vital employment opportunities and essential childcare services to Windsor, this venture will invigorate the local economy while meeting the pressing needs of families in the area

breaks ground in Windsor

providing a transformative impact on the community,” Grant Gary, development partner at the Woodmont Co., said in a written statement.

ing, and inspiring children for the future,” Nanette Cohen said Construction of the 11,000square-foot building at 4701 Oakmont St. is projected to be completed in the second quarter of 2024, with more Kiddie Academy projects anticipated for Northern Colorado.

“We’re pleased that we’re getting such a warm reception from the Northern Colorado community We can’t wait to begin nurturing, educat-

This article was first published by BizWest, an independent news organization, and is published under a license agreement. © 2023 BizWest Media LLC. You can view the original at https://bizwest.com/2023/08/28/ kiddie-academy-breaks-ground-inwindsor/

Kiddie Academy, a new child development center has broken ground in Windsor (Credit/Shutterstock)

B I OUTWARD

UTWARD

WINDSOR STUDENT PARTICIPATES IN ROCKY MOUNTAIN CONSERVANCY HIGH SCHOOL LEADERSHIP CORPS

AWindsor high school student entered Rocky Mountain National Park for 11 days and returned home with new leadership skills thanks to a unique program for young wilderness lovers.

The Rocky Mountain Conservancy High School Leadership Corps hosted 17 high schoolers from across the state for an immersive outdoor experience in Rocky Mountain National Park, according to a conservancy news release The program combined adventure, public service and education in professional and life skills

Zev Gatto from Windsor found the opportunity appealing as someone who loves the wilderness.

The high schoolers gained hands-on experience working with conservancy field coordinators and park professionals on service projects, the release said. For half their time in the wilderness, the students worked on recreation and conservation field projects. Another portion of the program focused on personal and professional development, such as learning about

potential careers in public lands and conservation space

Gatto said the first few days of the program consisted of getting to know his fellow participants and learning how to set up camp. After a few days, the high schoolers moved on to volunteering at parks service stations and helping build a bridge for a trail in the mountains. On the last day, the experience ended with a 10-mile hike.

“This program helps you build leadership skills but also gets you introduced to the wilderness,” Gatto said “It’s just a really cool thing to do in the summer ”

The 11-day adventure also came with plenty of opportunities to have fun, including hiking, exploring Trial

Ridge Road and making new friends

“The Leadership Corps is an awesome experience for students to get outside of their comfort zone and also meet and work with people from a variety of places and backgrounds,” Field Coordinator Maddy Brunson said.

This was Gatto’s favorite part of the program, making new friends, because they formed bonds that made the experience and activities enjoyable

The conservancy further provides participants with free uniforms and gear rentals removing a financial obstacle to young people getting outdoors and developing a love for natural places. Along with a cool experience backpacking and living in a tent in the mountains, the students also

Windsor’s Zev Gatto participated in Rocky Mountain Conservancy High School Leadership Corps (Credit/Rocky Mountain Conservancy)

The 17 high schoolers who took part in the Rocky Mountain Conservancy High School Leadership Corps over the summer. (Courtesy/ Rocky Mountain Conservancy)

receive $400 stipends upon completion of the program, according to the release.

Donations and sales of the Rocky Mountain National Park Colorado license plates help fund the program, along with financial support from the National Parks Foundation

Interested Applicants for Next Summer

The leadership corps program, launched in 2017, faced a pause in operations during the COVID-19 pandemic but this setback has only helped organizers overhaul the program to ensure a jam-packed schedule with outdoor experiences and chances for personal growth, the release said.

Ian Stafford, director of Stewardship and Policy at the Conservancy hopes kids leave

the program with a positive and life-changing experience.

“We bring together a diverse group of students to live and camp in Rocky Mountain National Park as a unit, with a leadership and teamwork component to daily living,” Stafford said “At camp, they spend time journaling, taking ownership over the day’s responsibilities and working together to complete chores. The program culminates in a celebratory picnic with their families ”

After a successful wrap of the summer, the conservancy stewardship team is now planning and prepping for next summer, including reading through participant and partner feedback.

Gatto encourages other high school students to apply for this program, with the advice not to be nervous going in.

“It’s a little awkward on the first day, but you get comfortable really fast, and then it becomes really fun,” he said Environmental Learning for Kids, a nonprofit, provides administrative support and assists with recruiting participants, the release said. If anyone is interested in the program, the team urges fam-

ily members and students to go to rmconservancy.org.

“One of the very few requirements for this program is that applicants live in the state of Colorado,” Stafford said “We’ve intentionally removed as many barriers as possible to get a diverse and interesting group of students into the outdoors.”

BY KEN AMUNDSON

BACKLOTS WINDSORSWAPS FOR DOWNTOWN PROPERTIES WINDSORSWAPS FOR DOWNTOWN PROPERTIES BACKLOTS

An intergovernmental agreement and property exchange in the town of Windsor will place full responsibility for creating permanent parking on the downtown “backlots” in the hands of the town.

The Town Board voted unanimously Monday night, September 11, to enter into an IGA that would swap properties with the Downtown Development Authority, now conducting business under the Windsor Downtown Alliance name.

The DDA and town each owned part of the triangular-shaped backlots, a gravel area behind the businesses on the north side of Main Street adjacent to the railroad tracks and south of Windsor Lake. It had been used unofficially for years for overflow downtown parking and for event parking when activities oc-

curred at the lake.

The town and DDA jointly attempted to develop the backlots into a housing and commercial district. Voters, however, petitioned the issue onto a city-wide ballot, and voters overwhelmingly determined that the backlots should remain as parking permanently.

On Monday, the town board considered deeding town interests in two properties in the downtown 213 and 215 Fourth St. to the DDA in exchange for the DDA’s partial ownership of the backlots.

As a condition of the swap, the town wanted to make sure that the Fourth Street properties be used either for DDA administrative purposes or be used for commercial, sales-tax-generating businesses for the next 100 years. It required a

deed restriction as part of the deal.

“This has to be part of the deal in order to make the land swap acceptable,” said Mayor Paul Rennemeyer The DDA didn’t object.

The swap will mean a future financial obligation on the part of the town when it determines it is time to pave and stripe the backlots. Because it will own all of that triangle, it will be on the hook for all of the cost.

This article was first published by BizWest, an independent news organization, and is published under a license agreement. © 2023 BizWest Media LLC. You can view the original at https://bizwest. com/2023/09/12/windsor-swapsdowntown-properties-for-backlots/#

The gravel area behind the businesses on the north side of Main street adjacent to the railroad tracks has been used for parking for many years (Source: Windsor Planning Documents)

Future Legends Adding Professional Women’s Soccer in USL W League Expansion

Just in time for the Women’s World Cup, Future Legends Complex announced the addition of a professional women ’ s soccer team.

The team is expected to host its inaugural season in 2024 as part of the USL W League. It will be the first professional women ’ s team in the region

It joins a group of 65 teams, across four conferences and 10 divisions in the W League Other expansion sites have been announced, as well Northern Colorado’s participation in 2024, however, hinges on the development of a W League Mountain Division The division is expected to host at least five new teams

Future Legends already serves as the ownership group of the Northern Colorado Owlz (baseball), Grand Junction Jackalopes (baseball) and Northern Colorado Hailstorm (men’s soccer) It is the home field of the Owlz and Hailstorm as well

“We are incredibly excited to bring women ’ s soccer to Northern Colorado and Future Legends,” Future Legends Executive Director of Operations Casey Katofsky said in a statement “We have been looking forward to this announcement for a while, knowing the incredible impact this will have not only on the community, but also the sport of soccer ”

The team will play at TicketSmarter Stadium, which is still under construction, next summer. Future Legends will announce the team name, branding, head coach and roster

BY JADYN WATSON-FISHER

information this fall

“The ability to showcase incredible talent to young women around this area was one of the main reasons and motivations to build this facility in the first place,” Katofsky said. “We look forward to the team putting a great performance on the field, and an even better performance off the field ”

Both Northern Colorado FC and Owlz managers have effectively signed talent from the area, whether they are originally from Colorado or attended local colleges programs.

For example, Golden Boot leader Trevor Amann hails from Westminster. Midfielder Destan Norman calls Fort Collins home. On the baseball side, Frank Gonzales signed University of Northern Colorado alumnus Josh Glenn to the 2023 roster.

With the success of collegiate programs in the region, the new team could feature plenty of players Colorado and Wyoming soccer fans already know and love.

Future Legends will continue to update its social media pages with more information.

The new Future Legends Complex sign, youth baseball fields and the bubble dome are seen at the corner of Diamond Valley Drive and Garden Drive in Windsor. (Jadyn Watson-Fisher/Staff reporter)

A young woman at soccer practice. Future Legends in Windsor will add women’s soccer in 2024. (Credit/Shutterstock)

COMMUNITYCALENDAR

TATER JAX PUMPKIN PATCH

Mon.-Fri., 3-5 p.m. and Sat. and Sun., 10 a.m.-5 p.m. beginning Oct. 1, Windsor Storage and Farms, 6427 County Road 681/2

The pumpkin patch will be selling a variety and size of pumpkins and admission is free. For more information, go to https://bit ly/3sWXbXL

BOOKMOBILE

Mon., Oct. 2, 3:30 p.m., Harmony Ridge, 36181 Kingswood Drive.

All ages are welcome to come out and visit with staff, register for a library card and check out what materials the bookmobile has to offer

THE MARKET AT WINDSOR

Wed., Oct. 4, 5 p.m., Ted's Sweetwater Grill, 2191 Covered Bridge Parkway

The free market will be showcasing fresh produce, food and drink vendors, craft booths, live music and more. All ages are welcome For more information, go to https://bit.ly/3r7CwzO.

READ, RHYME AND ROMP WITH MISS JULIE

Thurs., Oct. 5, 10 a.m., the Children’s Imagination Room at the library, 720 Third St. The program is designed for little ones ages birth to 5 years and their caregivers and will feature an active storytime with books, singing and rhymes. Registration is required and can be done by going to https://bit ly/3t34JIk

TRAIL BUILDING

Sat., Oct. 7, 9 a.m.-2 p.m., Kyger Open Space, 280 Colorado Blvd. Volunteers are needed to lend a hand. Attendees will join the Overland Mountain Bike Association to build a new single-track trail. Community members age 16 and older are welcome to come help Registration is required and can be done by going to https://bit.ly/3t3pVxP.

FAMILY FARM TOURS

Sun., Oct. 8, 1-5 p.m., the Von TrothaFirestien Farm, 30951 Weld County Rd. 27 Offered by the Windsor-Severance Historical Society. Some of these farms have been in operation for more than 100 years All ages are welcome to attend and admission is $20 for adults and $10 for children. For more information, including how to register, go to https://bit ly/45TW5KZ

IRISH DINNER COOKING CLASS

Mon., Oct. 9, 6 p.m., 1550 Main St. Hosted by the Bottled Olive Pantry, the class will teach attendees how to make Reuben egg rolls, beer cheese dip, Irish potato salad, a Reuben stuffed pork loin and an Irish cream dessert

Tickets are $51 25 per person and all ages and skill levels of cooks are welcome to attend. For more information, go to https://bit ly/469DFp2

BOOKMOBILE

Mon., Oct. 9, 5 p.m., Windshire Park, 1520 Dartford Dr. Pick up some new reading materials for the entire family

TWEET TREATS: HANDMADE BIRDSEED ORNAMENTS

Tues., Oct. 10, 6 p.m., the Pikes Peak room, The Windsor-Severance Library, 720 Third St.

Adults age 18 and older can make their own bird seed ornaments with instruction and supplies provided by the library. Registration is required; go to https://bit ly/3RsyI6K

FRIED CHICKEN DINNER WEDNESDAY

Wed., Oct. 11, 5 p.m., 1600 Pelican Lakes Pt.

Dinners are $25 per person and all ages are welcome to attend. For more information, go to https://bit ly/45VCQAL

WINE DINNER

Wed., Oct. 11, 6 p.m., 301 Main St. Hosted by Cacciatore at Heller’s Kitchen, the event, open to adults age 21 and older, will feature a five-course menu and accompanying wines. Tickets are $100 per person For more information, or to purchase tickets, contact the restaurant at (970) 833-5821.

14 20 20 21 21

CLEARLY CREATIVE ART: AMAZING ACRYLIC

Thurs., Oct. 12, 5:30 p.m., the Pikes Peak room at the library, 720 Third St.

Registration is open. Adults age 18 and older will learn about painting using acrylic paints. The class will be led by local artist Valerie Fagan. For more information or to register, go to https:// bit.ly/3PjdIwF.

SOLAR ECLIPSE VIEWING PARTY

Sat., Oct. 14, 9:30 a.m., 720 Third St., Windsor

Attendees will be provided with solar viewing glasses to check out the natural phenomenon. All ages are welcome and registration is not required For more information, go to https://bit ly/3ZmShzp

THE WINDSOR-SEVERANCE FOOD PANTRY BOARD

Fri., Oct. 20, 9 a.m., Words of Windsor, 631 Birch St. Residents, businesses and organizations are welcome to attend the meeting

COFFEE WITH THE MAYOR

Fri., Oct. 20, 10 a.m., the Community Recreation Center, 250 N. 11th St.

Residents and business owners are invited to come chat with Mayor Rennemeyer about their concerns, provide feedback and learn what projects are coming up for the town. The event is free and all ages are welcome to attend. For more information, go to https://bit ly/3sVsAKf

SUDS, SELTZERS AND SUCCULENTS

Sat., Oct. 21, 10:30 a.m., 6461 Hwy 392

Hosted by The Windsor Gardener, the class is open to adults age 21 and older, will feature info on how to grow and maintain succulents Attendees will also be able to plant their own succulent garden to take home. Admission is $50 per person and registration is required For more information, or to register, call The Windsor Gardener at (970) 686-9771.

TWILIGHT TOURS OF LAKEVIEW CEMETERY

Sat., Oct. 21, 5:30 p.m., 32815 Hwy 257

Costumed tour guides from the Town of Windsor Museums will guide attendees

23 27 28 28

around the cemetery while entertaining them about some of the historical residents. Admission is $6 per person and guests age 8 and older are welcome to attend For more info, including how to register, go to https://bit.ly/3Pi8wJv.

ART LIKE AN ILLUSTRATOR

Mon., Oct. 23, 5 p.m., the Pikes Peak room at the library, 720 Third St. Author-illustrator Oliver Jeffers will lead kids ages 6-12 through creating their own ghosts Registration is required to attend. For more information, go to https://bit ly/3sUBh7n

ANNUAL PUMPKIN PLUNGE

Fri., Oct. 27, 5-7:45 p.m., the Community Recreation Center’s pool, 250 N. 11th St.

Children ages 2-12 years can splish and splash their way through a river of floating pumpkins to pick out the perfect one to take home. Registration is required and admission is $6 per person For more information, go to https://bit.ly/45XscJQ.

PARK CARE DAY: ABERDOUR PARK

Sat., Oct. 28, 9 a.m., 6600 Aberdour Circle

Kids and adults can come help spread mulch and help with landscaping and enjoy lunch and a costume contest for prizes Registration is required and can be done by going to https://bit ly/3ri7yVy.

HALLOWEEN CARNIVAL

Saturday, Oct. 28, 1-4 p.m., 100 N. Fifth St. The front lawn of the Windsor History Museum will be transformed into a fun fall extravaganza complete with performers, face painting, candy and more. The carnival is free and all ages are welcome to attend For more information, go to https://bit. ly/3RmrJfx.

Scott & Michelle Butterworth (Owners)

Cameron Ivy

Jada Specht

Nate Scofield

Amy McCarty

Austin Medina

Gabe Murillo Isaac Blackwell

Tim Byrd

PO Box 337228

Greeley, CO 80633-7228