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Making A Difference/Reporter-Herald
SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 21, 2010
Loveland Habitat for Humanity & its Partner Families thank the following list of volunteers and the Loveland Community for helping build 85 homes during the past 21 years. Board of Directors
ReStore Volunteers
Construction Volunteers
Office Volunteers
Faith Relations, Family Selection, Family Support, Fund-raising, Construction, Land Acquisition/Design, ReStore and Scholarship Committees. You have made a life-changing difference in the lives of your neighbors & we look forward to the construction of more homes in partnership with deserving families.
Loveland
For more information about Loveland Habitat for Humanity please call 970-669-9769 www.lovelandhabitatforhumanity.org 09-309446
Making A Difference/Reporter-Herald
SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 21, 2010
3
MAKING A DIFFERENCE SPOTLIGHTING THE PEOPLE, BUSINESSES AND ORGANIZATIONS BUILDING A BETTER WORLD BY STARTING IN THEIR OWN COMMUNITY
On the Cover Duane Kaye, volunteer coordinator for the Loveland Valentine Remailing Program, poses with a valentine mailbox during the program’s kickoff in early February. For the full story, see Page 14. Photo by Jenny Sparks, design by David Steffenson.
Contributors Editor: Jeff Stahla Contributing editors: Christine Kapperman, Jackie Hutchins, Craig Young and Colleen Clark. Designers: David Steffenson, Jayme DeLoss, Sheila Reinhardt, Jon Linn and Steven Weinmeister. Writers: Jessica Benes, Sarah Bultema, Pamela Dickman, Tom Hacker, Shelley Widhalm, Jeannie Lancaster and Kathryn Dailey. Photographers: Jenny Sparks, Chris Stark and Steve Stoner.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Tom Aberle .................................... Page 4
Steven Jackson................................ Page 6
Inge Bentz....................................... Page 8
Roberta Christopher ................... Page 10
Ellen Dailey .................................. Page 12
Duane Kaye ................................. Page 14
Jeffrey Krueger ............................. Page 16
Loveland Fishing Club ................ Page 18
Dave McGraw............................... Page 20
Loveland Philo Club..................... Page 27
Walt Skowron ............................... Page 29 Making A Difference Do you know someone in the community who goes above and beyond to make this area a better place to live? Submit your nominations for the 2011 edition of Making a Difference to City Editor Jeff Stahla, 201 E. Fifth St., Loveland CO 80537. E-mail: jstahla@reporter-herald.com.
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Making A Difference/Reporter-Herald
SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 21, 2010
Reporter-Herald/JENNY SPARKS
Fort Collins resident Tom Aberle sits in a pew at Trinity Lutheran Church in Loveland where he is a member.
FROM THE GROUND UP AREA PILOT HELPS BUILD HOMES FOR THOSE IN NEED
By Shelley Widhalm
Reporter-Herald Staff Writer
Tom Aberle does most of his volunteer work in Loveland though he lives in Fort Collins. The reason: The church he attends, Trinity Lutheran Church, is in Loveland, as well as one of the programs he helps coordinate, Thrivent Builds, a home-building program that adds to the efforts of Habitat for
Humanity. Habitat for Humanity is a Christian ministry that builds and rehabilitates homes for families in need. Tom and his wife, Kristy, moved to Fort Collins 19 years ago and wanted to find a home church. They tried a few, but when a friend suggested Trinity Lutheran, they knew they found the right one. “We felt right at home, very comfortable,” said Tom, who is 52. “It’s a
very welcoming church.” Pastor Ed Smith, one of the founding members of Loveland Habitat for Humanity, encourages church members to become involved in their community through volunteerism, outreach and missions trips. Like Ed, Tom has a history of involvement with Habitat for Humanity, both in New Jersey and Colorado. “It’s one of those organizations
that makes sense. You’re solving somebody’s housing problem permanently rather than paying their rent,” Tom said. Tom joined Habitat for Humanity in 1985 while he was stationed at McGuire Air Force Base in N.J. He served in the U.S. Air Force from 1980 to 1988, ranking as a pilot by the time he was honorably dis-
SEE ABERLE, PAGE 5
Making A Difference/Reporter-Herald
SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 21, 2010
5
ABERLE FROM PAGE 4
Tom Aberle
charged. Tom then joined Delta Airlines as an airline pilot, a position he has held for 21 years. Because he can be based where he chooses, he and Kristy, who both were born in Denver and attended Colorado State University, decided to relocate to the Front Range. “We decided coming back to Colorado was the best thing,” Tom said, adding that they like the weather, the people and the mountains. Once he came to Colorado, Tom volunteered both with Habitat for Humanity and with Thrivent Financial for Lutherans, a nonprofit life insurance company that creates and supports community programs to benefit congregations, schools and charitable organizations. Tom served as chapter president of the southern Larimer County chapter for three years in the early 2000s and now is a nonvoting board member. In 2005, Thrivent Financial for Lutherans aligned with Habitat for Humanity International to create Thrivent Builds. Through the alliance, Thrivent Financial members and Lutherans assist financially and provide volunteers for Habitat’s home-building projects. In Loveland, Thrivent Financial provides 65 percent of the cost of the house being built, Loveland Habitat, 25 percent and local Lutheran churches, 10 percent, to build one home a year on top of what Loveland Habitat for Humanity builds. Tom serves as Thrivent Builds chapter specialist, coordinating volunteers and ensuring the churches raise their 10 percent. He works with King of Glory, Emmanuel and Zion
Age: 52 Occupation: Pilot, Delta Airlines Family: Wife, Kristy; children, Jeff, 21, Lauren, 19, and Katelyn, 15 Years in Fort Collins: 19
Lutheran churches in Loveland and Redeemer Lutheran Church in Fort Collins. “I thought it was a good tie-in with Thrivent Financial and Habitat for Humanity. I have experience on both ends,” Tom said. “I can speak the language of both organizations.” Margie Johnson, volunteer coordinator for Loveland Habitat for Humanity, describes Tom as a quiet leader who inspires. “We know he just does a lot behind the scenes,” Margie said. “He has a huge heart and compassion for others in need.” Dave McGraw, board president for Loveland Habitat for Humanity, describes Tom as “a very sincere, loving individual.” “He comes out and volunteers. He’s not only the go-between with the churches,” Dave said. “He’s very dedicated to the program. He’s dedicated to the partner families. He’s dedicated to making somebody’s life better.” Through Trinity Lutheran, Tom, and sometimes his family, which includes three children, engages in mission trips to help with disaster relief, including New Orleans following Hurricane Katrina and Nicaragua to help with home building. “There’s a lot of people here who are passionate about giving a hand up to people who have experienced a hardship,” Tom said.
Special to the Reporter-Herald
Tom Aberle poses with fellow volunteers at a Habitat for Humanity home site in Loveland. He has been involved in the organization nationwide since 1985.
Reporter-Herald/JENNY SPARKS
Tom Aberle shows off one of the awards — a ceremonial gilded hammer — that he and his fellow builders through Habitat for Humanity have received through the years. It celebrates achieving “Golden Hammer” donor status.
“HE COMES OUT AND VOLUNTEERS. HE’S NOT ONLY THE GO-BETWEEN WITH THE CHURCHES. HE’S VERY DEDICATED TO THE PROGRAM. HE’S DEDICATED TO THE PARTNER FAMILIES. HE’S DEDICATED TO MAKING SOMEBODY’S LIFE BETTER.” — Dave McGraw, board chairman of Habitat for Humanity
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Making A Difference/Reporter-Herald
SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 21, 2010
Reporter-Herald/STEVE STONER
Steven Jackson plays drums during a performance with vocalist Stephanie Johnson recently during open mic night at the Pourhouse in downtown Loveland.
MOVING TO THE BEAT
DRUMMING LOVELANDER VOLUNTEERS IN MANY WAYS By Jessica Benes
Reporter-Herald Staff Writer
A loud “tap-a-tap-a-tap-a-tap-tap” is how the residents of Big Thompson Manor know Steven Jackson is at the door with their meals. Steven, a semi-retired Loveland man who devotes many of his free hours now to volunteering, delivers food with Meals on Wheels, hosts open mic night at the Pourhouse on Thursdays, teaches hand drumming to the children at the Boys & Girls
Club, plays at Big Thompson Manor for the residents and plays yearly for Relay For Life, among other gigs. Steven has been delivering food with Meals on Wheels for more than a year to the Big Thompson Manor buildings once a week. “I like meeting the people; they invite you in,” he said. They always know it’s him because of his customary drum tap on the door to announce his arrival. Peggy Kempe, administrative assistant for Meals on Wheels, said
Steven is one of their most devoted drivers. His clients are very fond of him and he of them. “He’s even helped us in the kitchen,” she said. “He is definitely a valuable member of our community. Without volunteers, many programs would be unable to sustain themselves or to operate. They are the backbone of the nonprofit business.” Steven used to commute to Denver to head up loss control at a bank until his arthritis and vision prob-
lems became too much for him. He’s on permanent disability now, which is hard to deal with, but he’s found other ways to keep busy. He played music for Big Thompson Manor last year several times, and residents there loved it. He and his bandmate David Gandal played easy-listening music in the 1960s and ’70s. “We watched them come alive when we played it,” Steven said. “Some of them never get out.” SEE BEAT, PAGE 7
Making A Difference/Reporter-Herald
SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 21, 2010
7
Steven Jackson, center, assists Jenna McSwain while her group sets up for a performance at the Pourhouse during open mic night. At rear from left are Marc Widenhofer, Dustin Retzlaff and Tyson Haynes. Reporter-Herald/ STEVE STONER
BEAT FROM PAGE 6
David played the guitar and Steven was on drums. They hope to play again for the seniors a couple times this year. He and David met at an open mic night four years ago at what was The Depot (now the Sports Station) downtown. They have been playing together ever since in what they called the “Beats Me” band. David recently took a job in Florida and splits his time between here and there. Steven offered to host open mic at the Pourhouse in September when it opened. He and David accompanied the singers together until David left. “There’s usually six to eight people there on any night willing to play with me now,” Steven said. One of Steven’s unique talents is that, although he can’t read music very well, he can pick up the rhythm of the song and make up the beat as
he goes. Sometimes his physical disabilities bother him — his eyes, back, neck. He’ll occasionally get cramps in his hands. “The doctors say that playing drums helps,” he said. “It helps the muscles.” Steven has been teaching children at the Boys & Girls Club every couple weeks for the last six months. He has a Tubano drum and several smaller version of it that he uses to teach five or six children at a time. They love it, he said. There are a few special needs kids who work with him. “You can see something turn on, something click,” he said. “It’s the only thing that matters to them at the time. Anything with music.” Ashley Jackson, performing arts coordinator at the Boys & Girls Club, said he comes every other week and when he doesn’t come, the children always ask, “Will we have drums this
Steven Jackson Age: 48 Occupation: Volunteer Years in Loveland: 26 Family: Parents, stepson
week? When are drums?” She said he enjoys the children, is very patient with them, and communicates with them in a way they understand. “He teaches them beats very slowly so they’ll get it,” she said. “Maybe one beat every time. He isn’t just there to show off.” Steven plays for Relay For Life every year and has played for Hospice in Fort Collins to raise money. “It’s important to be part of the community,” he said. “I have time. Everyone should do some kind of volunteer work. ... It really pays off
when you can see the appreciation in people’s faces.” As far back as he can remember, he was a drum player. He used to bang on pots and pans. When he was 9, his older brother bought a drum set at a garage sale. His brother started practicing, and then he picked up a set of sticks, too. At first he used a kitchen chair because he was too small for the drum throne. He taught himself and never has taken official lessons. Steven receives a supplement for his disabilities and said his earlier life in finance helped set him up to not fail. He used to speak at economic classes about credit and finance and how it works. “All that preaching paid off,” he said. “That’s how I survive.” Jackson accompanies the singers at open mic night at 8 p.m. Thursdays at the Pourhouse, 124 E. Fourth St. Sometimes he also performs with partners on Friday nights.
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Making A Difference/Reporter-Herald
SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 21, 2010
DRIVEN TO SERVICE VOLUNTEER FINDS PURPOSE
Ever since she was growing up in Bavaria during the 1940s, Inge Bentz has wanted to live in Colorado. It was a dream that finally came true just more than a decade ago, when she retired as a registered nurse in New Mexico and moved to the Sweetheart City of the Centennial State. However, even though she was home, the senior was a little lonely. She was looking for a greater purpose — until one day at church when it found her. “A couple of ladies saw me looking kind of lost,� the 76-year-old remembered. “I said I’ve got to find somewhere to volunteer. She said ‘I’ve got just the thing.’� Soon, Inge found herself behind the wheel of her Chevy Impala, volunteering to drive disabled and elderly residents around town through Senior Alternatives In Transportation, or SAINT. The Loveland nonprofit, created in 1983, enlists volunteers to offer personal transportation to people who
otherwise couldn’t get around. Inge was thrilled to help these community members — even if she had to learn to navigate them through a city she hardly knew. “It was quite an undertaking because I didn’t know the streets in Loveland,� she said. “Me and my Reporter-Herald/CHRIS STARK map had to get very familiar quick.� Inge Bentz, right, helps Dorothy Schildgen into a car outside the Chilson Senior Center It took Inge some time to learn all where Schildgen was eating lunch Jan. 26. the routes and roads in Loveland — but it didn’t take long for her to realize the importance of what she was doing and the joy that came with it. “I’m really doing something worthwhile,� she said. “They are so grateful and so nice; it’s a total enjoyment.� Today, Inge has become one of the most dedicated volunteers at the nonprofit. Each Tuesday — rain, snow or shine — she offers rides to two to 10 Nitrogen! Better for your car... community members, including takBetter for the environment! ing seniors to the grocery store or Y H Y C blind people to their music lessons. A I U “She’s a tremendous driver, and she does it with such cheeriness,� So when you insure both said Gary Thomas, executive director your personal vehicle of SAINT. and your home with “When you can’t drive a car, you’re
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Reporter-Herald Staff Writer
09-309667
By Sarah Bultema
Making A Difference/Reporter-Herald
SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 21, 2010
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“SHE’S A TREMENDOUS DRIVER, AND SHE DOES IT WITH SUCH CHEERINESS.
WHEN
YOU CAN’T DRIVE A CAR, YOU’RE STRANDED FOR THE MOST PART.
THAT’S
WHERE INGE MAKES A DIFFERENCE. Reporter-Herald photos/CHRIS STARK
SHE
KEEPS PEOPLE INDEPENDENT PAST
Above: Inge Bentz left, helps Corina Lane down a step on their way to Inge’s vehicle Jan. 26. Inge drove Lane to the Chilson Recreation Center so she could work out. Inge has been driving people around Loveland for the Senior Alternatives In Transportation service for the past 12 years. Left: Inge helps put a bandage on Corina’s finger before dropping her off at the Chilson Recreation Center to work out.
THEIR ABILITY TO DRIVE.”
— Gary Thomas, executive director of SAINT
BENTZ
FROM PAGE 8
stranded for the most part,” he said. “That’s where Inge makes a difference. She keeps people independent past their ability to drive.” And those who she’s helped recognize what an impact Inge has on their lives. “I think the world of her,” said Loveland’s Corina Lane, who has been one of Inge’s passengers since she began volunteering.
Corina is blind, and the rides help her run errands all over town. Yet beyond the freedom she finds through her rides with Inge, Corina has also found a friend. “I just love her sense of humor and her personality,” Corina said, noting the two often share stories about their childhood and own children. “We just sit and talk. I always look forward to her. ... “I feel like we’re friends in addition to her being my driver.”
Inge Bentz Age: 76 Family: Husband, Charles, and two sons Occupation: Retired nurse and volunteer Years in Loveland area: 13 Since beginning with the nonprofit, Inge has logged thousands of miles — for about half of which she refuses the gas money reimburse-
ment, as an added donation to the organization — and has provided more than 2,700 rides to those who need a lift. In 2009, Inge was named the organization’s volunteer of the year. But the driver’s not ready to put it in park yet. Inge plans to continue giving back for as long as she can. “One of these days ... I might need something like that,” she said. “It’s important to know there’s an organization that can help.”
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Making A Difference/Reporter-Herald
SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 21, 2010
Reporter-Herald/STEVE STONER
Roberta Christopher poses in the gift shop at St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church at which she does buying, selling, bookkeeping and scheduling.
THE LITTLE GIFTS
CHURCH GIVES CHRISTOPHER OUTLET TO SERVE COMMUNITY By Shelley Widhalm
Reporter-Herald Staff Writer
As a church gift shop volunteer, Loveland resident Roberta Christopher knows that some things don’t change. Church members of St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church are buying Bibles, religious-themed books, rosaries, crucifixes and other items having to do with the Catholic faith,
just as they did 15 years ago. “It’s fun to go in and see what sold over the weekend and see what I have to pick up and replenish,” said Roberta, a 64-year-old grandmother of 15. “It’s constantly the same things.” Roberta’s volunteering stint started when church member Marie Sullivan, who at one time ran the gift shop, asked members of the Sweethearts of the Knights of Columbus
for help in the gift shop. Roberta, who is sweetheart to her husband of 24 years, Jim, agreed to volunteer one Saturday or Sunday a month. Marie taught Roberta how to operate the shop and make rosaries, which are sent to Louisville, Ky., for distribution to missions worldwide, Roberta said. Proceeds from the gift shop sales are used to buy the wire, cord, beads and crucifixes to make
rosaries that 20 church volunteers assemble, she said. Roberta took over running the gift shop in November 2006 after Marie’s death. She buys the supplies, does the bookkeeping and schedules the 10 volunteers who work at the gift shop, which is open after mass on Saturdays and Sundays. Roberta works there on the second
SEE CHRISTOPHER, PAGE 11
Making A Difference/Reporter-Herald
SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 21, 2010
11
Roberta Christopher
Age: 64. Occupation: Retired, a volunteer at St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church and the Associated Veterans Club of Loveland. Family: Jim Christopher, husband; five children; 15 grandchildren. Years in Loveland area: Almost 22.
Reporter-Herald/STEVE STONER
Roberta Christopher, center, prepares a ham and potato dish with fellow volunteers Marie Hergenreder, left, and Norma Nemeth in January in the kitchen of St. John the Evangelist Church, 1730 W. 12th St.
CHRISTOPHER FROM PAGE 10
Saturday and the fifth Sunday of the month, along with a couple of hours during the week, she said. “I tell people if I’m there and the doors are open, we’re open,” Roberta said. After she retired in 2007, Roberta began coordinating the funeral dinners the church provides for the family and friends of loved ones following a funeral service at the church. Church volunteers on the Council of Catholic Women provide a meal, typically a potluck in the cooler months and sandwiches in the warmer months, along with salads and desserts. Roberta buys the groceries and helps cook and set up the meal,
working with six to eight volunteers from the council. “She is very willing to help many causes in our community, and she just volunteers with a smile on her and face and is always happy to help someone else,” said Sally Schlautman, a member of St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church and of the Council of Catholic Women. “She’s just very friendly and very helpful and very aware of other people’s needs.” Roberta and Jim volunteer at the Associated Veterans Club of Loveland. Jim is an American Legion member who served in the U.S. Navy during the Vietnam War. On the second Sunday of the month, Roberta and Jim, with the help of Rose Burke of Loveland and other volunteers, cook an all-you-
“SHE ALWAYS GIVES MORE THAN SHE GETS.”
— Jim Christopher, on his wife’s volunteerism can-eat breakfast and do the cleanup afterwards. The breakfast raises money to help support the club. “I’ve always been proud of her,” Jim said. “She always gives more than she gets.”
The Christophers also raise money to provide a Christmas dinner for the homeless or anyone who is alone during the holidays. They provided the meal at the vets club last year and previously at Grandpa’s Cafe in Berthoud, a family business that was sold in June 2007. Roberta worked at Walmart for 11 years, then helped her daughter Kathy Tumbleson for seven to eight years at Grandpa’s Cafe until 2007, the year she retired. “I just like knowing that I’m helping people,” Roberta said. Roberta gives Linda Gray of Loveland, who has multiple sclerosis, rides to the doctor and takes her to senior game days at senior facilities. “She’s very friendly and nice and will do anything she can for you,” Linda said.
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Making A Difference/Reporter-Herald
SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 21, 2010
HOOKED ON HELPING LOVELAND WOMAN ORGANIZES FISHING EVENT TO BOOST FIGHT AGAINST CANCER By Pamela Dickman
Reporter-Herald Staff Writer
Ellen Dailey’s favorite quote is from a memoir in which fly-fishing weaves throughout the author’s life. “There’s always the possibility,” she said, quoting Harry Middleton’s book, “The Earth Is Enough.” “This is why I fly fish.” Those words that touched Ellen’s heart could also describe why she dedicates most of her time — when she’s not fly-fishing — to helping others. The Loveland woman is always there for friends in need, devotes months of every year to organizing a charity fishing fundraiser in Wyoming, visits assisted living centers with a therapy dog and is creating a program for residents to visit and simply talk with the elderly in Loveland. But it is a special fly-fishing trip with a very special cause that led resident Terry Walsh to nominate Ellen as a person who makes a difference. “Stripping for the Cure,” held on the South Fork of the Snake River in Idaho last September, raised $6,500 for breast cancer research.
Reporter-Herald/STEVE STONER
SEE DAILEY, PAGE 13 Ellen Dailey poses with her fly-fishing rod recently along the Big Thompson River west of Loveland.
Making A Difference/Reporter-Herald
SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 21, 2010
13
DAILEY FROM PAGE 12
Ellen Dailey
The event — named after a technique of pulling instead of reeling in a fishing line — is on track for even bigger numbers this September. Ellen, one of three main organizers, is reluctant to take any credit, deflecting all praise to co-organizers Kay Jones and Susie McDowell of Wyoming, and the 39 other women who fished in “Stripping for the Cure.” Ellen, Kay and Susie are friends who often fish together. They love the skill and the determination needed to catch a fish by casting the right kind of fly in just the right spot at just the right time to provoke a nibble. All three women were fishing in a prestigious tournament in Jackson Hole, Wyo., — the One Fly, for which Ellen organizes a charity auction — in 2008 when the idea for “Stripping” first came up. “We stopped for lunch and hatched this idea,” Ellen said. A year later, the three women and 39 others met for a special two-day event to basically share their love of fishing, with pink flies, and raise money for breast cancer research. Susie and Kay are both cancer survivors as were one-third of the 42 women who fished in the tournament. All but three were directly affected by cancer among their immediate family. Together, they fished, they laughed and they connected. “It’s indescribable,” said Barb Peterson, another Loveland woman who fished in “Stripping for the Cure.” “It was incredible.” In fact, she and all 42 others, including three mother-daughter teams, signed up immediately at the end of the first tournament for the coming September. “It was that satisfying,” added
Age: 59 Occupation: Retired from construction management Years in Loveland area: 4 To donate: The Susan G. Komen for the Cure, a foundation that raises money for breast cancer research, takes donations year round at www.komen.org.
“IF EVERYBODY WOULD JUST GIVE A LITTLE, WHAT A BETTER WORLD IT WOULD BE.
I DO BELIEVE THAT.” — Ellen Dailey
Barb. Much of the success, said Walsh, ties to Ellen’s contacts and dedication. “As tenacious as she is fishing, I think she can be that tenacious in talking to people to get donations,” said her neighbor and sometimes fishing partner. Ellen is outspoken and warm, making friends almost immediately. Her sassy back talk does not hide the kindness and caring in her heart; the desire to help shines through in nearly everything she does. Retired from construction management, the woman has wicked organizational skills, contacts and ex-
Special to the Reporter-Herald
A hat and hooded sweatshirt denote a special fundraiser organized for women who fly fish, called “Stripping for the Cure.”
pertise to pull off large charity tle, what a better world it would be,” events — and she has the drive to said Ellen. “I do believe that.” As Harry Middleton wrote: help. “If everybody would just give a lit- “There’s always the possibility.”
www.reporterherald.com
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Making A Difference/Reporter-Herald
SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 21, 2010
Reporter-Herald/JENNY SPARKS
Loveland Valentine remailing volunteer coordinator Duane Kaye helps the volunteers with their efforts to put a special valentine stamp and cachet on letters bound for points around the world.
LOVE’S IN THE MAIL
VALENTINE REMAILING COORDINATOR PUTS HEART INTO JOB By Tom Hacker
Reporter-Herald Staff Writer
Some valentines get noticed more than others. Take the one that arrived a few Februaries ago at the valentine remailing center, the place that puts an annual stamp on Loveland’s global identity. It was 10 feet by 6 feet, had a frame like a tent, and was destined
for an American soldier serving in Japan. Special handling was required, and Duane Kaye delivered. “We all had a hand in it,” said Duane, who for more than a decade has coordinated the volunteer effort that processes, in an average year, about 200,000 valentines. “Everybody wanted to see it. We gave it the cachet, folded it up, packed it in a box, and sent it on its way.” That’s just one story among many
that Duane and his perennial volunteers have to tell about their experiences during the two-week love-fest they share during the first two weeks of each February. Thirteen years ago, Duane’s involvement in the Loveland Valentine Remailing Program was a mere facet of his occupation as a mail handler for the U.S. Postal Service. He shutSEE KAYE, PAGE 15
Duane Kaye Occupation: Volunteer coordinator for the U.S. Postal Service and Loveland Valentine Remailing Program. Years in Loveland: 16 Family: Wife, Jeanette
Making A Difference/Reporter-Herald
SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 21, 2010
15
KAYE FROM PAGE 14
tled trays of valentines back and forth from the post office to the volunteer stampers, just as so many other postal workers had done since the program started in 1947. When the volunteer coordinator job came open in 1997, he jumped on it. At the time, the program was based in a back room of the downtown post office. “It was haphazard, and really kind of a mess,” Duane said. “But I saw how much fun people were having and wanted to be a bigger part of it.” The program is housed now in the spacious, bright community room at the Loveland Visitor Center, where 50 volunteers spend about five hours daily receiving, sorting, stamping and mailing valentines. Ruth Porter, who is more often called Ruthie, has been on valentine duty since she and her husband, Harold, arrived in Loveland in 1993. She remembers Duane’s arrival. “He’s precious,” she said. “He really is. I just love Duane.” The reverence flows from all the volunteers who work under Duane’s gentle supervision. “We hug. We hug a lot,” said Duane. “But when people visit here and see how much work is being done, they’re just amazed.” The work continued even during an interruption by 19 3- and 4-yearolds from Loveland Preschool on Feb. 10, as the valentine mailing machine was swinging into high gear. As the children and their caregivers circulated through the room, Patricia Magee took a break from her job as keeper of the tally to offer each a high-five. Some of the older kids got a little too much into the act. “It’s OK,” Patricia said, her left hand stinging. “I’m a grandma.” Duane happened by, smiling as the pint-size entourage snaked through the room. He couldn’t stay and mingle, though. “I’ve got to head out,” he said. “I’ve got to take 11,000 valentines to the post office.” The load reflected less than a day’s worth of work at Valentine
Reporter-Herald/JENNY SPARKS
Above, Duane Kaye poses with remailing program volunteers. Below, Kaye displays a mailbox as the volunteer stamping effort kicked off in early February. Station, as the remailing center is called. The previous day, 23,000 were posted. Among them were some with international origins and destinations. Ethiopia, Ghana, India, China — even Antarctica — were among the postmarks this year. A few are oneway messages intended for Duane and his crew. “This year, we got a letter from a woman in China who has been doing this for 17 years,” he said. “She sends one to herself and others to friends and family. For the first time, she had a translator who could send a message to us, thanking us for what we do. It’s great to feel the warmth of the people who aren’t even involved in this process.” Yes. Some valentines get noticed more than others. Duane’s valentine observance this year also includes a light-post heart in front of the Pulliam Building on Cleveland Avenue, a message to his wife of 17 years: “Duane loves Jeanette.”
“WHEN PEOPLE VISIT HERE AND SEE HOW MUCH WORK IS BEING DONE, THEY’RE JUST AMAZED.”
— Duane Kaye
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Making A Difference/Reporter-Herald
SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 21, 2010
Architect Jeffrey Krueger talks with a group of his students from the Front Range Community College residential construction class during a Feb. 1 trip to see Habitat for Humanity homes he designed.
Reporter-Herald photos/CHRISTOPHER STARK
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249A E. 29th St. NW Corner of Orchards Center Loveland, CO 80538
HOMES FOR ALL ARCHITECT PUTS HEART INTO WORK
By Sarah Bultema
Reporter-Herald Staff Writer
In 2006, Loveland Habitat for Humanity coordinators were having problems finding an architect to complete the designs for a village of affordable homes they hoped to build. They contacted local architect Jeffrey Krueger in hopes he could make a few tweaks to the plans they had. The Lovelander agreed. However, after a look over, he came back with a response no one expected. Dump the current design, he said — because “I’ll do as many homes as you want. I’ll do the whole neighborhood, and I’ll do it for free,’” Jeffrey remembers telling them. “
housing can be beautiful and sustainable.” The architect, who owns Krueger Architects and Planners, offered to do the entire project pro bono. Now, four years later, he’s created multiple, state-of-the-art designs that have been built into 18 houses at Habitat for Humanity’s Boise Village. And for the people who live inside them, he’s helped create a home they can be proud of, said Gwen Stephenson, executive director of the local nonprofit. “His support and vision and passion for improving affordable housing has made a huge difference for the families we serve,” she said. “The neighborhood is beautiful
homes.” Jeffrey, who had worked with nonprofits in the past, took on the project to prove that affordable housing doesn’t have to be of any less quality than other homes — a fact that wasn’t being recognized in Northern Colorado, he said. “Affordable housing and good design could go together,” Jeffrey said. “But no one’s really doing it.” Taking the matter into his own hands, the architect began creating the Habitat building designs. He focused on making the most of the small lot space each house would have, and also used tricks to stretch the square footage inside. Additionally, he created each
SEE KRUEGER, PAGE 17
Making A Difference/Reporter-Herald
SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 21, 2010
17
KRUEGER FROM PAGE 16
home to be sustainable and operate at a low energy cost to the owner. These design features include capturing natural sunlight to avoid using electricity as much, and situating windows that can be opened for natural ventilation. “If we’re going to do this, we’re going to do it right,” he said, later adding, “It’s not just a tract home. These are going to meet the heart and soul of the people who live inside.” The Habitat for Humanity families who have been assisted through the affordable housing program attest his plan worked. “I figured (the house) would be nice, but not to the extent that ours is,” said Jami Moore, who moved into her Habitat home with her husband and four children in 2008. The mother especially likes the open floor plan downstairs, where the family usually hangs out. “We love it,” she said. “It’s forever changed our life and our children’s.” Reporter-Herald photos/CHRISTOPHER STARK Using Jeffrey’s designs, volunteers and Habitat homeowners have built Architect Jeffrey Krueger donated nearly $100,000 of work designing Habitat for Humanity homes. He will help his students design a more than a dozen houses in Boise new group of Habitat homes that will be built near Conrad Ball Middle School. Village — with each house adjusted by the architect to fit the individual family’s needs. “He’s involved in every house,” Gwen said. “He’s amazing.” Even after years of work and an estimated $100,000 of donated services, Jeffrey’s commitment to the nonprofit isn’t over yet. Teaching architecture at Front Range Community College, Jeffrey assigns his students each semester to help design future Habitat for Humanity homes, which the nonprofit can choose to adopt and later build. Additionally, Jeffrey’s working to Age: 41 create the organization’s next neighFamily: Wife, Iya, and four children. borhood, which he plans to design Occupation: Architect to be nearly completely self-sustainYears in Loveland area: 10 able. “It’s a social responsibility for peoJeffrey closes up a Habitat for Humanity home that he designed after he led a tour for ple in there,” he said. “We’re going to his students from Front Range Community College on Feb. 1. do something really cool.”
Jeffrey Krueger
“HIS SUPPORT AND VISION AND PASSION FOR IMPROVING AFFORDABLE HOUSING HAS MADE A HUGE DIFFERENCE FOR THE FAMILIES WE SERVE.”
— Gwen Stephenson, Habitat for Humanity
18
Making A Difference/Reporter-Herald
SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 21, 2010
Members of the Loveland Fishing Club have breakfast at Widow McCoy’s recently in Loveland. Clockwise from left they are John Gwinnup, incoming president, Bob Scott, Skip Kral, George Kral, Bob Roelofsz and Jim Giles. Reporter-Herald/ JENNY SPARKS
WHAT A GREAT CAST FISHING CLUB REELS IN COMMUNITY VOLUNTEERS
By Pamela Dickman
Reporter-Herald Staff Writer
Ask Division of Wildlife manager Aimee Ryel about the Loveland Fishing Club, and she pauses for only a moment. “I love them.” The group of mostly retired residents, mostly men, share a love of fishing and a desire to share that with the community. They offer their expertise and heritage of fishing to youngsters throughout Loveland and take on all sorts of projects such as cleaning
trash from waterways, stocking fishing ponds and enhancing fish habitat. Three years ago, the retired fishermen saved the Loveland Fishing Derby, sponsored every year by the Loveland Police Department. Crime Prevention Officer Ken Jurkofsky, the driving force behind the derby for decades, retired, and the derby seemed destined for retirement, too. Instead, the Fishing Club stepped up to help out, offering countless hours seeking donations and actually teaching youngsters about fishing
at the June derby. “If they hadn’t stepped up to the plate, we might not have a derby now,” said Ryel. The little boys and girls who attend the derby with their parents, grandparents, siblings and friends make the derby worth every second dedicated and every ounce of effort exerted, according to club members. “The best part is the smile on their faces,” said Bob Scott, 2009 club president. “We all got kids and grandkids,” added Jim Giles. “We want the sport to continue.”
Scott has been fishing all his life, starting as a child in the 1940s. With a willow stick for a rod, he often fished the creek that ran past his farm. In fact, his high school football coach took the whole team fishing to kick off the season, he said. Another club member, Dave Harem, remembers the first fish he ever caught, at age 5. He snagged a brown trout from a stream near his family farm in Minnesota, pulling the pole so hard the fish literally
SEE FISHING, PAGE 19
Making A Difference/Reporter-Herald
SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 21, 2010
19
“WE’RE TRYING TO START THEM EARLY SO IT WILL BECOME PART OF THEIR HERITAGE AS IT WAS OURS.”
— John Gwinnup, 2010 club president
Reporter-Herald file photo
George Kral, left, and Bob Scott, members of the Loveland Fishing Club, prepare prizes for fishing derby contestants in 2007 at North Lake Park in Loveland. At right, George Kral wears his Loveland Fishing Club hat.
FISHING FROM PAGE 18
flipped over his head and off the line. “I had to go back in the weeds and find him,” said Harem. “I found him.” And ate him. Those memories are what the Loveland Fishing Club works to create and foster for residents of all ages, particularly children. That is why they devote time to the fishing derby, to helping the Girl Scouts learn to cast and fish and to many other community cleanups and projects. “We’re trying to start them early,” said John Gwinnup, 2010 club president, “so it will become part of their heritage as it was ours.” A handful of retired fishermen formed the Loveland Fishing Club seven years ago. It has since grown to 90 members who fish together
and volunteer together. “They have varied and distinct lives prior to what they’re doing now,” said Ryel. “They all have this connection with their love of fishing and sharing that love.” The members of the Loveland Fishing Club meet for breakfast every Friday and share jokes, barbs and fishing stories (nearly all of them true). They also get together once a week for fishing trips, mostly around this area but sometimes out of state. It’s surprising the club members can find time to fish when you look at the varied and many community projects they undertake. Members volunteer at fundraisers for Colorado Youth Outdoors, a nonprofit with a similar aim, and host their own swap meet to raise money for the fishing derby. They cast their net around Loveland to land donations and volun-
Loveland Fishing Club Purpose: To share a love of fishing with each other and the community. Projects: The Loveland Fishing Derby, cleanup of area reservoirs, fish habitat restoration, fishing trips and more. Years in Loveland area: 7 Members: 90 More information: www.lovelandfishing club.org. teers for the annual derby to make sure there are experts in casting, baiting and cooking and plenty of rods, reels and tackle as prizes. They seek grants to improve fishing at area reservoirs, securing several in recent years for a dock at Lone Tree Reservoir. They buy fish to stock the duck pond at North Lake Park, spending $1,500 on bluegills last year. They clean up Lon Hagler Reser-
voir and will soon be adopting one of the public fishing parcels in the Big Thompson Canyon. They are currently obtaining grants to install handicapped-access steps to Flatiron Reservoir to make it easier to reach for fishing. And about two years ago, they worked with Ryel to sink old Christmas trees into Jayhawker Ponds to improve fishing habitat. “It’s important to them because they are giving back,” said Ryel. “They want to be doing something for future generations.” Again and again, club members echoed that sentiment at a recent breakfast. They spoke of their desire to spawn a love of fishing in the community and children — something that makes all their work worthwhile. “The idea of seeing a kid’s excitement pulling a trout in,” Gwinnup said, “that’s what we live for.”
20
Making A Difference/Reporter-Herald
SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 21, 2010
BUILDING SOMETHING
MCGRAW, HABITAT HELP PUT LOCAL FAMILIES IN HOMES By Kathryn Dailey
For the Reporter-Herald
Dave McGraw helps give families more than just a home; he gives them a place to build and launch new lives. And many people will say he gives them more — comfort, support and a sense of empowerment. But Dave, president of the Loveland Habitat for Humanity, said that in his five years with the nonprofit the people he works alongside “give back more than we give them.” “What has kept me going is the wonderful families that we put in the homes,” said the 63-year-old Windsor resident. “They are just very special.” Dave first got involved with Loveland Habitat for Humanity in 2005. Five months after he and his wife, Sue, moved to Colorado from Michigan, she told him, “You are redefining the word underfoot, and you need to get out of the house,” he said. The next day, Dave walked onto a Habitat site, and his involvement and dedication to the organization and the people it serves still grows. A year later, Sue died after contracting the West Nile virus, and Dave garnered support from those at Habitat. “The Habitat family became my life,” he said. Since then, Dave’s involvement has become paramount. In addition to being president of the board of directors, Dave sits on several committees, attends operational meetings and works on the construction sites Tuesdays and Thursdays — and Saturdays, if needed. He is also hugely involved in getting Thrivent grants, which gives Habitat 75 percent of the funding for a house and partners with five local Lutheran churches to help with volunteer resources, said Loveland Habitat Executive Director Gwen Stephenson. “Dave is really involved in every aspect of Habitat for Humanity as
Reporter-Herald/JENNY SPARKS
Dave McGraw works on drywall in a Habitat for Humanity House recently in Loveland. far as oversight and also on the construction site. He just has an incredible passion for serving the Habitat family,” Gwen said. Dave also brings a rare and important combination of skills to the nonprofit — a kind heart and a business mind, she said. He helps find the resources that the nonprofit needs and works side by side with the families as they build their homes. From start to finish, he gets to watch these families succeed. “I think his greatest love is to just see the transformation in the families’ lives,” Gwen said. One of Dave’s favorite success stories is one of a mother and her two children and seeing the way that they were empowered after the ex-
Dave McGraw Age: 63 Occupation: Retired Years in Loveland: Five (working) Family: Two adult daughters, two sons-in-law, four grandchildren perience. It gave the mother a chance to go after and get a job she never would have tried for, he said. Sharon Pearson and her son worked with Dave in the past when she was helping build her home. While it has been a couple years, Sharon said he still knows her name and will say hello when he’s in the Habitat neighborhood. “He’s just a really, really kind man. He just makes you feel really com-
fortable,” she said. Building the house was Sharon’s first time working with many of the tools, and she felt a little intimidated by the whole process, but Dave helped her feel as though she really could do it, she said. And she was impressed that Dave really wanted to know her and her son and that he took the time to do that. “It’s a big deal for him to be involved in Habitat, and you can tell that,” she said. “He’s just one of the people that really sticks out in my head.” And Dave always remembers the families he has worked beside. “I could walk you up and down the street and tell you stories about every one of those families,” Dave said.
Making A Difference/Reporter-Herald
To Build a Better World, Start in Your Own Community
Family Owned since 1961 “Your Complete Printing & Copy Center 667-1233 215 E. 7th St. - Loveland
2003 Chamber of Commerce Business of the Year
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Loveland’s First & Best Community Grocery Store
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Since 1912
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Steve Lambert General Manager
Super Vac Ventilators SVI Trucks & Refurb Command Light
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Garden & Home Center
Loveland Chamber of Commerce and Visitors Center
“Serving Northern Colorado Since 1999”
Super V Vacuum Manufacturing Co., Inc.
First in Personal Service
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21
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228 E. 4th St.
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3401 S. College, Ft. Collins
Yancey’s Food Service
90th Anniversary Where Dreams take Center Stage! In Historic Downtown Loveland
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• Over 4,500 food & non-food items, specializing in produce • Local, convenient will-call • Menu & food cost consulting WWW.YANCEYS.COM • 613-4333 5820 Piper Drive, Loveland
Family Owned & Operated since 1958
Third G Generation ti F Family Owned Glass Shop Serving Loveland Since 1960 First & Lincoln • Loveland Hours: Mon-Fri 8-5 Sat 9-12
...Loveland’s L l d’ R Resource Center
Loveland’s Most Complete & Cutting-Edge Facility
“Connecting People To Resources”
Glorie Magrum Executive Director
565 North Cleveland Ave. Loveland, Colorado 80537 Phone (970) 667-4939 Fax (970) 667-1597 honservice.org
09-308991
City of Loveland
SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 21, 2010
Making A Difference/Reporter-Herald
970-667-1853 Excavation, Hauling & Concrete Frank & Dick Ward
PO Box 265, Lvld 80539
North Shore Health & Rehab Facility
SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 21, 2010
Heather Boyko Owner
Scott Sheldon
301 E. 4th St. Loveland, CO 80538 Historical Downtown Loveland (970) 669-7774 6:30am to 3:00pm Everyday
D & I PREHUNG DOOR CO.
Best Green Chili in Town!
Office Phone 669-0443 Fax 669-0508
(QUALITY WORKMANSHIP)
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667-5075
Voted “#1 Steak” Readers Choice
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No trans fats 436 N. Lincoln • 667-6679
Colorado Sprinkling Systems, Inc. “Your Holiday from Watering”
2414 S. County Road 21 Loveland, Colorado 80537 Office (970) 667-1272 Vince Barnhart
Frank Barnhart
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Betsy Burns, CRS Real Estate Broker
Your Loveland Specialist
www.landmarkltd.com Loveland, Colorado
132 E. 7th Loveland Sales • Service • Parts
For Appointments Call 970-667-0769
RESIDENTIAL BROKERAGE
970-667-6286
Loveland’s appliance, furniture and mattress store for 40 years
(970) 669-6660
Phone: 970-624-5456 Fax: 970-624-5404 In Christ’s Love, Everyone is Someone
THANKS TO OUR CUSTOMERS FOR 36 GREAT YEARS!
667-8583
1808 N. Boise Ave. Loveland, CO 80538
2101 South Garfield Avenue Loveland, CO 80537-7377
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74 Low Carb Sugar Free & about 150 other varieties of candy
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Bart • Cindy • Frieda 970-667-8819 Loveland, CO 80537
Big Thompson Medical Group, Inc.
Pamela Goodman
-Homeschool Headquarterswww.probascosbookstore.com
Tues - Fri 10-5 • Sat 9-2
1951 E. 11th St.
Loveland, Colorado 80537
Christian Books, Gifts, Wigs and Headwear
344 N. Lincoln Avenue 1365 W. 29th St., Loveland, CO • 970-667-6111
Kevin Hill
Property Management
430 East Eisenhower Loveland, CO 80537 (970) 667-3400 Donna Rye, Property Manager
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• Commercial • Industrial • Residential • Roll-Off Service
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Family Owned & Operated since 1970 • Fully Insured Servicing Berthoud, Loveland & Ft. Collins areas.
970-667-2283
559 S. St. Louis -PO Box 673 Loveland, CO 80537
(970) 667-0770
816 E. 57TH LOVELAND, CO 80538
09-308992
22
Making A Difference/Reporter-Herald
ROSEMARY’S A Cortland Certified Pro Shop Fly Tying & Fly Fishing Instruction Quality Fly Tying Materials Locally Tied Flies Rod Building Shop, We Will Help www.bobsflytying.com 406 S. Lincoln Ave. Loveland, CO 80537 667-1107
ROSEMARY CONRADY 261 E. 29TH ST. LOVELAND, COLORADO 80538 (970) 667-1743 FAX (970) 278-0904
Residential Commercial
, LLC Fort Wayne, Fiber Glass and Above Ground Pools
Gary Shade
• Chemicals • Supplies • Service Del Gamble
Nicholas Pohilt
“Serving Northern Colorado for 30 years”
Manager 970-669-2716
325 N. Cleveland Ave. Loveland, Colorado 80537
669-2595
Same Owner for 31 Years
Open for the Season April 2010
DAIRY DELITE OF LOVELAND Celebrating 32 years Family Owned & Operated Redeem for .94¢ small one topping Sundae ( Limit 4) 3080 West Eisenhower Loveland, Colorado 80537
(970) 667-2111
Complete skin care for your dog or cat.
3325 N. Garfield 667-3007
Residential & Commercial Flatwork Serving Northern Colorado Since 1982 Licensed & Insured Justin & Chelsey Johnson ~ Owners
970.667.6905
Box 949 Fax 970.587.2490 Johnstown, CO 80534 www.A-Concrete.com
Betty Coble (970) 667-4671 Ten Consultants to Serve You COBLE CRUISE & TRAVEL Vacation Travel & Cruise Specialist
Vitamins • Herbs • Books Health & Beauty Weight Loss • Bulk Foods Allergy Free Foods Mon.-Fri. 9am-6pm Saturday 9am-5pm
243 E. 4th Street Loveland, CO
669-9280
Serving Loveland for over 28 years
970-669-6555
Big Thompson Medical Group, Inc.
Established 1978
1023 Des Moines Ave. P.O Box 2156 Loveland, CO 80538
Maid Smart, Inc.
The Finest Residential Cleaning Service Nancy Glass Owner
226-6055 or 669-1112 www.maidsmartinc.com
536 W. 66th St. Loveland, CO 80538
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2701 Madison Square Dr. Loveland, CO 80538
440 N. Lincoln
669-5111
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Linda & Larry Glover 635-9696
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K-9 Hairstylists
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23
667-6554
1059B N. Colorado Loveland, Colorado 80537
667-5699 LOVELAND Specializing in custom made draperies, blinds & shades as well as repairs.
EQUIPMENT/TOOLS/PARTY RENTALS RENT BY THE DAY, WEEK, OR MONTH
3101 W. EISENHOWER BLVD. LOVELAND, CO 80537 PH: 970-669-3866 FAX: 970-669-4696
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SPAS & HOT TUBS-
SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 21, 2010
24
Making A Difference/Reporter-Herald
SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 21, 2010
Big Thompson Medical Group, Inc.
Celebrating 25 years
www.lovelandgardencenter.com
1801 S. Lincoln Ave.
970-669-3577 Loveland
Loveland Pediatrics 2555 E. 13th St., Suite 130 Loveland, CO 80537
(970) 663-5437
Mail Mart & Gift Shop, LLC We wrap, pack, and ship for you UPS FedEx US Mail Mail Box Rentals Handy Location and Parking
Susan Albern President
446 East Fourth St. Loveland, CO 80537 WEB RMPM.COM
PHONE 970/669-0842 FAX 970/669-4942
Offering conscientious buyers and sellers negotiable commissions.
Feel HealthierLive Better We stand behind our work & in FRONT of our brakes. 505 E. Eisenhower 663-2101
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www.ibmc.edu
Located at
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Brian Bean 3816 W. Eisenhower
2001 S. Shields, Bldg H Ft. Collins, CO 80526
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663-1944
970-461-9838 Loveland, CO 80537 Cell 970-290-0574
(970) 498-9226
Highland Concrete
2222 W. Eisenhower
Marie Herl
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OFFICE
970-278-0180
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970-215-5403
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AND SERVICE CENTER
Lowest Price-Fastest Service.Period WWW.BIGOTIRES.COM
Dana Foote
• Owner/Manager
2480 North Lincoln Loveland, CO 80538
(970) 667-6074
FAX: (970) 669-0728
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FO
TIC
RE IG E&B N AUTOMOTIVE, INC. 127 Barberry Place ES
Injection Molding • Computer Aided Design Prototypes • Product Development Steve Tungesvick President
P.O. Box 1362 2054 14 Street SE Loveland, CO 80539
Phone: (970) 669-2783 Fax: (970) 669-4317 E-mail: Steve@softtouchmfg.com www.softtouchmfg.com
M DO
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• Commercial • Industrial • Design/Build • General Contractor
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www.kingcontracting.com
Loveland, CO 80537 Earl Willis
635-0393
09-308994
Cyndi & Terry Scott Mon-Fri 8-6 Sat 9-1 117 E. 37th St. Phone (970) 669-8485 Loveland, CO 80538 Fax (970) 613-4319
Making A Difference/Reporter-Herald
SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 21, 2010
25
Investment Centers of America Paul Hummel, ChFC
935 N. Cleveland • Loveland
669-9720
1715 Sedona Hills Dr. Loveland, CO 80537
Rick Thomas, Owner 667-6517 Cell: 214-5329
Cameron A. Grant cgrant@gglaw.com 275 South Main Street, Suite 201 Post Office Box 908 • Longmont, CO 80502-0908 Phone: (303) 774-2349 • Mobile: (303) 817-8475
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Loveland, CO 80537 Fax 970-622-0429
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MetroLux 14 Theatres Promenade Shops @ Centerra Loveland, CO
MOVIE HOTLINE (970) 593-1881
Loveland, CO 80537 1 block E. of Taft on SW 14th
Phone (970)669-2443 www.b-b-q-bobs.com
970-635-3061 Loveland, CO
M-R SUM BOOKS INC. Bookkeeping Services
622-0803
2552 SW 15th St., Loveland, CO 80537 Mary Ricke Roni Muhlenbruck
Owners
Complete Sewer & Drain Service
Cleaning • Repair Fully Insured Emergency Service Residential & Commercial Mobile Homes Sinks • Tubs • Stools • Floor Drains • Disposals • Faucets • Water Heaters Sewer & Waterline Replacement Excavation & Septic Systems Locally owned since ‘97
Big Thompson Internal Medicine 1808 N. Boise Ave. Loveland, CO 80538
Mountain States Business Brokers
Serving the needs of area business buyers & sellers since 1997.
(970) 221-9950
info@msbizbrokers.com • www.msbbloveland.com
237 East 4th Street Loveland, CO 80537 (970) 667-9388
RICHARD D. HOLSTAD ENGINEERING SERVICES, LLC
Beef Brisket Pork Shoulder Ribs & Fixins’ Dine In Carry Out Catering 1440 Diana Drive Kelly & Barbara Green
Big Thompson Medical Group, Inc.
(970) 278-1862
Scotty Brian Beth 1875 Topaz Drive
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DBA SPECTRUM ENGINEERING RESOURCES
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395 W. 67th St. • Loveland, CO 80538
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Big Thompson Medical Group, Inc. OB/GYN Associates 1900 N. Boise Ave. Suites 300, 410 Loveland, CO 80538
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www.imsheatingandair.com
09-308995
Chartered Financial Consultant Member FINRA
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Making A Difference/Reporter-Herald
SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 21, 2010
Derald Phillips
Owner
Precison Concrete Raising Residential and Commercial Loveland, Colorado 970-290-4119 Member of the Chamber of Commerce 970-667-3755 Insured
Funeral Director
Pre-Arrangement Counselor
MOLDING MATERIALS CASTING MATERIALS • TOOLS • CLAYS / WAXES -One Stop Sculpture Supply-
Karen Richardson
David G. Viegut 970-679-4669
1616 N. Lincoln Loveland, CO 80538
418 8th Street SE, Unit B5 Loveland, CO 80537 shop@sculpturedepot.net
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Big Thompson Medical Group, Inc.
Big Thompson Medical Group, Inc.
Fossil Creek Family Practice
Berthoud Family Physicians
303 Colland Dr. Fort Collins, CO
401 10th St. Berthoud, Co 80513
(970) 461-8031
(970) 532-4910
Lincoln Place Apartments 325 E. 5th Street Loveland, CO 80537 970.461.8000 Tel 970.461.8616 Fax LincolnPlace_BM@legacypartners.com www.lincolnplaceapartments.com PAULA SCHROEDER BUSINESS MANAGER
Big Thompson Medical Group, Inc. Banner Medical ClinicNorth Loveland 3880 N. Grant Ave., Suite 140 Loveland, Co 80538
(970) 203-0047
Johnson Custom Flooring & Design
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2093 E 11th St., Loveland Custom paint and fabrication “We build your dreams”
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A Flying Squirrel Tree Service
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Happy Paws Pet Care
Big Thompson Medical Group, Inc.
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970.203.0284 Cell: 970.962.4061 John “Nose” Toll Free: 866.277.0284 Mortgages Fax: 970.776.4761 john@familymtgco.com www.familymtgco.com 505 E 4th St. • Loveland, CO 80537
Making A Difference/Reporter-Herald
SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 21, 2010
27
“COUNT THAT DAY LOST WHOSE LOW DESCENDING SUN VIEWS FROM THY HAND NO WORTHY ACTION DONE.” — Anonymous verse included in 1930s history of the Philo Club
Philo Breakfast attendees in September 1939. Special to the Reporter-Herald
PAST AND PRESENT
RICH IN HISTORY, PHILO CLUB STILL MEETING NEEDS TODAY By Jeannie Lancaster
For the Reporter-Herald
Whether helping women who have fled abusive relationships, encouraging families to read together, lifting lives with a Christmas food basket or through myriad other projects, the women of Loveland’s Philo Club — short for Philomatheon — have served the Loveland/Berthoud area with enthusiasm and dedication for more than 90 years. Founded in 1918 by a group of high school girls wanting to help
their community, the 85-member Philo Club has grown and changed through the years to meet the expanding community’s needs. “I think I appreciate most the fact that the organization is not afraid to change,” said 28-year member Mary Voggesser. “As needs are seen, we add something new.” While they enjoy the opportunity to socialize that Philo affords, members point to a desire to serve others as their main motivation for participating. “I loved the idea of giving back to
the community,” said Mary. Jane Bock had worked in a maledominated field for many years and wanted to be part of a women’s organization. “I was thrilled to join,” said Jane, a four-year member who served as cochairwoman for the organization’s golf tournament in 2009. “I have been so enriched. There is such a generous spirit among the women.” The women of Philo come from diverse backgrounds and occupations and cover a broad range of ages.
“My mom and I are both members,” said President Cindy Kurtz. “Maybe my daughter will be a member someday.” “When new young women come in, we feel their energy,” said Sharon Petersburg. “When older women come in, we feel their wisdom,” added Mary. Marthann Dahlen, who serves as vice president, has been with Philo for 17 years. She and Mary reminisced about some of Philo’s past projects. Both fondly remember the
SEE PHILO, PAGE 28
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Making A Difference/Reporter-Herald
SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 21, 2010
Reporter-Herald file photo
Members of the Integrated Early Childhood Committee of Philo put together more than 200 boxes of supplies in May 2007 for local students who were entering kindergarten. The boxes included an activity pad, markers, crayons, flashcards and more. From left are Ginger Shearer, Bonnie Hanson and Joan Swan.
PHILO FROM PAGE 27
Philo Santa Shop and the annual fashion show. While Philo’s projects have changed through the years, its intent has not. “This is a bunch of women willing to do whatever to help in the community,” said Donna Menzies, a sixyear member. And help they do. Philo assists the community in many ways including five main ongoing projects. • Alternatives to Violence. While never knowing the identities of the women and children they serve, the group maintains an Alternatives to Violence apartment — cleaning, painting, providing furniture, etc., as needed. The club may also provide items such as toiletries and clothing.
• Canned Food Drive and Food Baskets. Philo members work with local schools on a December canned food drive. Continuing the tradition begun in 1918, they assemble food and gift baskets for less-fortunate community members. • Community Blood Drives. Working with Bonfils, Philo sponsors five community blood drives each year. Members contact past donors, volunteer to work shifts and donate snacks. “We average 90 to 95 units of blood donated per drive,” said Cindy. • Integrated Early Childhood Program. The members of Philo have a dedication to literacy that shows in their support of the Thompson School District’s Integrated Early Childhood Program. “We create school boxes with critical needs such
Loveland Philo Club If you would be interested in serving with Philo, contact Cindy Kurtz at 962-6832.
as crayons, scissors, etc., for those children who will be heading to kindergarten,” said Cindy. “We do whatever is needed,” said Marthann. “One time we created costumes for their dress-up area.” “Something new we’re doing is collecting books for the children and magazines for parents,” said Sharon. “We want to encourage the whole family to read.” • Scholarship Program. Philo’s yearly golf tournament funds its annual community scholarships. “Proceeds have grown over the years from the first golf tournament
with $8,000 to the $15,000 in scholarships we’ll be able to fund this year,” said Cindy. The scholarships have served community members from high school seniors to the group’s oldest recipient, who was 80 years old. “These are scholarships for trade schools, certifications, training programs and junior colleges,” said Jane. “It is so relevant right now because so many people are being laid off or having their hours reduced.” So what would the young women who formed Philo all those years ago think of the organization now? “I think they would be amazed at how such busy women are able to accomplish so much,” said Philo historian Kathi Wright. “I hope it continues to be a vibrant part of Loveland for the next 90 years.”
Making A Difference/Reporter-Herald
SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 21, 2010
29
Reporter-Herald/STEVE STONER
Loveland resident Walt Skowron chats with third-graders in Jo Payson’s class at Sarah Milner Elementary School after reading to the students as part of a volunteer reading program.
FOSTERING SUCCESS
SKOWRON VOLUNTEERS TO HELP CHILDREN ACHIEVE By Kathryn Dailey
For the Reporter-Herald
Walt Skowron has made community service a top priority through most of his life. Through the community involvement work he did during his 37 years of employment with HewlettPackard, his time as a city councilman and his volunteer work in local
schools, one thing has echoed in that time — his desire to see children succeed. One moment that stands out in his memory of when he worked at HP was when they were able to donate video equipment to parents of deaf children so that the parents could practice sign language outside of a classroom and learn how to communicate better with their chil-
dren, Walt said. “It was just absolutely heartwarming,” said the 76-year-old Loveland resident. Walt also got involved with organizations such as the Loveland Chamber of Commerce and Rotary Cosmopolitan Club. When the club still existed, members used to hold mutt derbies at the old Loveland dog tracks for dogs of all sizes and
breeds. Using the money received from the participants, the club would hold an Easter egg hunt for the children. “It was really a marvelous program because it brought the families together and gave them a competitive spirit and ended up doing some nice things for kids in Loveland,” Walt said. SEE SKOWRON, PAGE 30
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Making A Difference/Reporter-Herald
SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 21, 2010
“HE’S JUST A VERY REPUTABLE, KNOWLEDGEABLE PERSON AND A LOT OF PEOPLE STILL REALLY LOOK UP TO HIM.” — Alan Skowron, Walt Skowron’s son, speaking about his father
Walt Skowron served a term as president of the Loveland Chamber of Commerce in 1971 while he worked at HewlettPackard. Reporter-Herald file photo
SKOWRON FROM PAGE 29
While those moments were about 30 years ago, Walt now reads for some of the third-graders at Sarah Milner Elementary School each year for the Read Across America Day in his former neighbor Jo Payson’s classroom. When he reads to the students, he gives them a lesson on world music and his son, Alan Skowron, assists by playing the guitar. He gets them singing and asking questions, Jo said. He is passionate, enthusiastic and gets involved with what he does, and
the children can pick up on that, she said. “He gets in there and he stands up and he talks right into their little faces,” Jo said. “He’s got a real heart for all people, but I think he has a real special place for these kids because he just gets down on their level and talks right to them.” Walt will take it a step further and bring in small prizes for the children throughout the year to help encourage reading, Jo said. “He really wants them to do well in school,” she said. His dedication to children starts when they are young and continues
Walt Skowron Age: 76 Occupation: Retired from Hewlett-Packard Years in Loveland: 48 Family: Wife, Beverly; two adult sons, Alan and Eric
as they grow. Walt has mentored several teens, and in the past he spoke with several of the high school students involved in the Larimer County summer employment program. “It was just fun coaching them of what is important and what is not
important to be a very good employee,” he said. Alan said his father has always tried to volunteer and participate in school activities whenever he was able. In Alan’s eyes, his father always wanted to be a positive and inspirational influence in the lives of the children and teens that were around him. But even more, Walt always gives his time, support and advice to people who need it, Alan said. He calls his father determined, educated and caring. “He’s just a very reputable, knowledgeable person and a lot of people still really look up to him,” Alan said.
Making A Difference/Reporter-Herald
SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 21, 2010
31
...
Your Community. Your Newspaper.
Reporter-Herald believes in supporting our community by contributing to:
Our 2009 Community Partners American Cancer Society Relay for Life
Loveland Community Health Fair
Berthoud Day
Loveland Corn Roast Festival
Boot Scootin’ Casino Night -Alternatives to Violence
Loveland Feed & Grain- Fundraiser
Boys and Girls Club of Larimer County
Loveland Habitat for Humanity
Business Expo 2009
Loveland Loves to Read Author Event
Colorado Children’s Day
Loveland Performing Arts Association
Colorado Eagles Hockey
Loveland Road Runners Sweetheart Run
Community Coat Drive for HNS
Loveland Rotary Foundation Duck Race
El Pomar Empty Stocking Fund
Loveland Rotary End Polio Now Program
Engaging Loveland - The Art of Dining
Loveland Youth Gardeners
Fairy Godmother Project
March of Dimes March for Babies
Foothills Service League
McKee Foundation Turkey Trot
FORCE Women’s Soccer
Optimist Travelogue Film Series
Governors Invitational Art Show
Parade of Years Car Show
Have a Heart Food Drive to Benefit HNS
Project Self Sufficiency
Help Kids Succeed School Supply Drive
Safe Kids Larimer County
Historic Preservation Month
Santa Cops
House of Neighborly Service
Senior Law Day
Kiwanis Golden K Golf Tournament
Sierra’s Race for Meningitis
Larimer County Fair Parade
Stars of Tomorrow
Larimer County Jr. Livestock Auction
Sweetheart Classic 5K
Loveland Business Team Poetry Contest
Thompson Valley Preschool
Loveland Chamber New Teacher Breakfast
Turning Point Pedal to the Point
Loveland Civic Music Association
Valley 5000
Loveland Classic 5K
United Way of Larimer County
Loveland Community Fireworks
Wild and Scenic Film Series
Our commitment to our community is long-standing, and for years, we have shown our support in many different ways to many different community organizations. Though the groups we support have changed over the years, what hasn’t changed is our commitment to support our diverse community and its citizens.
• 201 E. Fifth St. • Loveland • 970-669-5050 • reporterherald.com
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Making A Difference/Reporter-Herald
SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 21, 2010
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