0412 RM Parent

APRIL 2012 • rmparent.com

Magical fairy gardens Hard-to-recycle items Egg-ceptionally good Modern bullying Caring about daycare Natural outings

SPECIAL SECTION: YOUTH

Program&

Activity

GUIDE

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Dance for Joy!

e tuff l c cy s’ s

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H $ cA lege

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N ng & spri

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FREE Diagnostic testing Bring JOY back into Learning!

Reading • Math • Homework Personalized Learning Programs ACT/SAT test preparation Call today to schedule your child:

970-481-7853 access4knowldgemary@gmail.com

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APRIL 2012

Departments Perspective. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6

Enchanted by the mystery—wondering about the world through the eyes of a child

AS W E GRO W . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8

Caring about daycare—finding the right place for your child takes research

Fa m i ly a c t i v i t i e s . . . . . . . .10 Natural learning—take your family on an educational outing this month

H EALT H Y l i v i n g . . . . . . . . . . . 12

Tackling hard-to-recycle items—Sometimes it takes a bit more effort to keep something out of the landfill

NUTRITION . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14

Egg-ceptionally good—healthy-again eggs should be on your menu

C o m m u n i t y n e w s . . . . .16

Local mother and son present their Red State/ Blue State game • Family and friends unite to help with medical expenses • Volunteers for Outdoor Colorado hosts family-friendly volunteer day • Receive free training to help families breathe easier • Greeley offers 2011 food-tax rebates for low-income households • Name the “new” library

C a l e n d a r . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .38 Events and activities for parents, kids and families

T i m e o u t . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46 The Road Less Travelled—a five-year-old strikes out on a path his parents didn’t take

School District News Poudre School District . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26 Seniors’ volunteer dedication spans 24 years, PSD calendar of events, Cache La Poudre kindergarters celebrate learning with “Penguin Day,” Putnam 4th-graders learning engineering skills with marshmallows and toothpicks, outstanding PSD teachers recognized at special banquet

Greeley-Evans District 6 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30

Northridge High School student named as a Boettcher Scholar, NCMC and Banner Health help create Health Science Academy for students with $300,000 donation

Thompson School District. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32

Thompson robotics teams going to Nationals, Worlds; multi-district integration project kick off; Lanny Hass becomes Colorado Integration Project Manager for TSD

Lunchbox. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36 School menus for Poudre, Thompson, Greeley-Evans, and Windsor

Special Section Youth program & activity guide Give your kids the opportunity to help plan their summer. Look into camp experiences, budget-friendly family activities, and just exploring outdoors.

Balance is key, so leave plenty of free time around those planned activities.

UTH ProgrYOam & Activ

ity

APRIL 2012 www.RMPARe nT.cOM

GUIDE

cHOOsIng

sum mer

AcTIvITIes fOR YOUR cHILd 8 scHOOL cALendARs 74

Program Dir ectory

BY cATegORY 20 ALPHABeTIcAL 22

LIsT Of AdveRTIseRs 76

sPrING

fLYeR secTIOn

50

Program Directory

By category 16 alPhaBetical 20

ABOUT THE COVER

Summer in the Rockies promises high adventure.

Photo courtesy of Educo Adventure Camp.

Features

18 Sticks and stones... and words

Bullying doesn’t happen just at school or the mall—it also happens online and on phones.

Cyber bullying—using the Internet, mobile phones or other digital devices to harm others— involves hurtful texts, compromising photos and put-downs on social media sites. Talk with your children about bullying and give them skills to deal with it.

20 M agical

fairy gardens

Imagine a garden perfect for children, filled with miniature mushrooms, petite furniture, mosscovered rocks and tiny trees all in a kid-sized container. Let your kids delve into a world of magic, fantasy, and dreams through fairy gardening. And the best part? You probably have everything you need to get started.

ABOUT THE COVER

Kendall, 5, loves art, gymnastics, her dog, brother and friensds, and temporary tattoos. Photo by Cheri Schonfeld, schonfeldphotography.com.

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perspective

Enchanted by the mystery Wondering about the world through the eyes of a child

I

was so happy to see Allison O’Connor’s story about creating fairy gardens (p20).

She includes a lot of how-to information in addition to describing the allure of conjuring such a place. She ends the story like this: “Create your family’s magical place, where dreams flourish and tiny flying creatures dance and celebrate the goodness of gardens.”

Now we don’t really believe in magic, right? Well maybe not the pull-a-rabbit-outof-a-hat kind, anyway. But one definition of magic is: mysteriously enchanting. In that sense, the world is a magical place, a place where we can wonder, a wonderland, I guess. Spring is a great time to be enchanted by the mystery.

Every year I’m dazed and amazed when the crocuses poke up through the snow (well dry dirt this year) and unfold bright yellow and purple petals. It’s not that I’m surprised that they survived winter and are back again. It’s just that it seems so crazy how life persists like that.

I was riding my bike and saw a bright yellow bush all budded out. I love that. Now, I’m not a botanist (although I play one on the internet), but I’m pretty sure that any basic biology course outlines how plants sprout, grow, reproduce and die, down to the tiniest organic-chemical detail. Science is a great way to understand the world, and I think, I hope anyway, that it begins with wonder. First something captures the eye, or one of our other senses, and we’re drawn toward it. At first we just enjoy it.

Let’s say it’s a duck at a lake and we’re walking by and it starts stammering away and waddling toward us. If we’re 3 years old we might squat down, in that way only 3-year-old knees will allow, and get face-to-face with the noisy aggressor, or we might hide behind some bigger legs. In any case, we’re fully engaged. We wonder what might happen next. We see how green the eyes are and the funny little spot on the beak. We haven’t seen so many ducks that we just label it a duck and carry on. We notice the scratchy sound it’s making. We notice other details and maybe we laugh at something silly because it looks so funny the way that duck is walking, rocking from one foot to the other. Then, all of a sudden, it’s too close so we throw the bread on the ground and run back a few steps.

Anything seems possible. For some kids it might inspire them to learn about the science of things, for others it might move them toward poetry or prose, still others might just find peace lying in the grass musing about what the dragons or turtles floating through the sky are thinking about.

Magic isn’t about crazy things happening that we can’t explain (think government). Nor is it about advanced technologies that we can’t explain (think iPads). Magic is about allowing yourself to see the world through fresh eyes every day, appreciating how crazy wonderful it is, and enjoying the mysterious enchantment of it all.

—Scott Titterington, publisher

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APRIL 2012 • VOLUME 16, NUMBER 11 PUBLISHER Scott Titterington, (970)221-9210 scott.rmpublishing@gmail.com EDITOR Kristin Titterington, (970)221-9210 kristin.rmpublishing@gmail.com Calendar editor Aly Titterington calendar@rockymountainpub.com CREATIVE DIRECTOR Emily Zaynard emily.rmpublishing@gmail.com ADVERTISING SALES DIRECTOR Greg Hoffman, (970)689-6832 greg.rmpublishing@gmail.com ADVERTISING SALES Sara Hansen, (970)310-9850 sara.rmpublishing@gmail.com DISTRIBUTION Wendee Brungardt, Sharon Klahn, Rob’s Bike Courier Service COVER PHOTO Cheri Shonfeld, schonfeldphotography.com CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Katie Harris; Richard Keller; Ann Schmike; Kim Sharpe; Lynn Utzman-Nichols ROCKY MOUNTAIN PUBLISHING 825 Laporte Ave., Fort Collins, CO 80521 Voice 221-9210 Fax 221-8556 editor@rockymountainpub.com www.RMParent.com Rocky Mountain Parent magazine is published monthly by Rocky Mountain Publishing, Inc. Publication of this paper does not consitute an endorsement of the products or services advertised. RMP reserves the right to refuse any advertisement for any reason. The opinions expressed by contributors or writers do not necessarily reflect the opinions of Rocky Mountain Publishing. ©2012 Rocky Mountain Publishing, Inc. All rights reserved. Reproduction without express written permission is prohibited.

OUR COMMUNITY PARTNERS:

Realities for Children’s

Affiliate Youth Agency of the Month

Reflections For Youth Mission statement:

To provide the highest quality of educational, residential and in-home therapeutic services for youth in crisis

Contact: 970-344-1380 • www.reflectionsforyouth.org “Realities For Children doesn’t just provide emergency funding, special youth activities and our most significant event sponsorships, but they also empower us as an agency to reach out to a broader support base of community members in order to meet the needs of our clients.” ~Anna Waser, Reflections For Youth Partnered in service with 19 Affiliate Youth Agencies, Realities For Children Charities provides support for the unmet needs of abused and neglected children in Larimer County. Each month in Parent Magazine a different Realities For Children Affiliate Agency will be featured.

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as we grow

Caring about daycare

Finding the right place for your child takes research lynn ut zm an-n i chol s

C

hoosing a daycare is much harder than any parent ever imagines. So many factors need to be considered—a center or a home, care style, cost, location—and of course all those emotions that go along with leaving your baby or toddler with someone new—guilt, fear, worry and protection. Knowing you’ve done your research and selected the very best option for your child will give you some peace. Put prospective daycares to the test with these guidelines.

Get candid opinions from other parents Ask friends, neighbors and play group participants who they use for daycare and why. If you don’t know anyone who uses a daycare you are interested in, ask the director or provider for references. See if you can meet a mom or dad for a candid chat over coffee. If you are considering a daycare center, search for online reviews. Finally, plan a visit during typical drop-off or pickup times and talk with parents as they walk to their car.

Consider your ideal provider Before visiting, make a list of the top traits you want in a childcare provider.

Do you want her to be calm, energetic, loving, creative, strict, relaxed? What type of discipline do you hope she uses?

Is it important that there are lots of planned activities and outings? Do you want him to start teaching school basics or not? Do you want a set naptime? Do you like a home setting or a daycare setting? Does it matter if she smokes, has pets, doesn’t serve organic food, uses videos, has older children in the home, has a fenced yard, walks or drives the kids places, etc.?

Ask, inquire, observe When touring the facility, ask a ton of

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questions. View the checklist of questions to ask a daycare provider on www.ivillage. com. For example, the website suggests asking about licensing, CPR training, cost (including late fees, paying for vacations, holidays, sick policy, etc.), food served, the use of TV and videos, outside time, activities, discipline scenarios, teacher-to-child ratios and so on. Take a look around. Is the place clean? Does it have safety features in place? Are teachers interacting with kids at their level? Are toys age-appropriate and educational? Is the place chaotic or calm?

Visit once, twice and make a final drop-by Experts suggest visiting alone the first time so you can really observe and focus on getting your questions answered.

Once your appointment’s over, stick around and watch some more. The second time, bring your child. Watch how he’s integrated and greeted. Do the other kids seem happy? Do you like how the provider responds to challenges and how she talks with kids? Finally, drop by unannounced to see if your first view was an accurate one. When visiting a home daycare, ask if you and your child can tag along on an upcoming out-

ing—this may provide a more candid look at the provider and a chance to get to know her better. Also, visit as many places as possible. Doing so gives perspective and helps you hone in on what you like and don’t like.

Trust your gut Even if you have several glowing recommendations from friends who love the place, if it doesn’t feel right, don’t sign up. Our guts clue us in on subtle issues—like a provider whose approach to discipline, daily schedules or communication isn’t in synch with our own parenting style or values.

Keep it all business While it seems perfect to be best friends with your child’s provider, resist. Forming a personal relationship can make it uncomfortable to speak your mind during disagreements, resolve an issue, or negotiate on money issues. It can also make you stop asking if the situation is a good one for your child.

Once you do your search and find the right place, relax. The provider might not be you, but she’s likely the next best thing.

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family activities

Natural learning

Take your family on an educational outing this month K ATIE HARRIS

W

hat better month than April to show our appreciation for the world around us by taking the time to learn more about it. With the first signs of spring in the air, and Earth Day right around the corner, April is an opportune time to take advantage of one of the educational outings the Rocky Mountain area has to offer.

CSU Environmental Learning Center 2400 S. CR 9, FC, 970-491-1661

Saturday, April 7, 10am-1pm: Families About Nature Day. Bring the whole family and explore environmental sciences through outdoor hands-on activities. $10/family includes pizza lunch.

Registration required by contacting Nicole Stafford at programs@csuelc.org.

Learn more about the CSU ELC by visiting www.csuelc.org/calendar/.

Saturday, April 14, 10am-2pm: Carpe Diem Service Day. Bring the family out to help remove invasive species, clean up the river and prepare the garden for spring. Lunch is included for all participants. Contact Preston Brown at volunteer@csuelc.org to RSVP. Visit www.csuelc.org/calendar/ for details.

Fort Collins Natural Areas Friday, April 6, 9:30am-1:30pm: Spring Break “Break”: Survival Secrets. Take a 2-mile accessible hike at Bobcat Ridge Natural Area stopping at educational hands-on stations along the way. Prizes for all children who attend. Free, dropin. www.fcgov.com/naturalareas/ or email dprice@fcgov.com for details.

Gardens on Spring Creek

970-416-2486, 2145 Centre Ave., FC

Read and Seed: Storytime and educational activities for 2- to 4-year-olds and an adult companion. These drop-in classes cost $3 per child per class.

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Classes take place Mondays and Tuesdays from 10-10:45am and 11-11:45am.

April topics: Week 1: Easter egg holders Week 2: Sensory game Week 3: Clouds Week 4: Caterpillars Week 5: Rattlesnakes Ready! Set! Grow!: A program to teach 4- to 5-year olds about gardening and nature through projects, crafts and books. April’s theme will be cool crafts.

May’s theme is All Natural Fun. Fridays from 9:30-11am. Class costs $40/month and preregistration is required by calling 970-416-2486.

Find details on the Gardens on Spring Creek at www.fcgov.com/gardens/.

High Plains Environmental Center

1854 Piney River Dr., LV, 970-622-9676

The High Plains Environmental Center is a 76-acre urban environmental park open daily to the public. Guests can explore native species of plants and wildflowers and participate in programs to learn about composting, sustainable horticulture, vegetable gardening, wildlife, wetlands ecology, art in nature and more. Visit www.suburbitat.org/ for more information.

Little Thompson Observatory

850 Spartan Ave., Berthoud, 970-613-7700

Friday, April 20, 7:30pm: Public star night (third Friday of each month, weather permitting). Free, no reservations required. A different speaker each month presents a guided tour of the sky with an 18-inch telescope. For details visit www.starkids.org/.

Poudre Learning Center

8313 West F St., GR, 970-352-1267

The Learning Center is designed to educate the public on the history, science,

economics, stewardship and aesthetics of the Cache la Poudre River and Northeastern Colorado. The Center is surrounded by 65 acres with lake and river access, complete with educational areas, trails and wheelchair accessible pathways. The Learning Center is open M-F, 7:30am-4:30pm and land can be accessed on weekends as well. The Center also offers community and student events throughout the year. Find details and a calendar at http://plcoutdoors.org/home.

Sustainable Living Association Saturday, April 21, 11am-5pm: Earth Day Fort Collins in Civic Center Park, Old Town Fort Collins. Crafts, music, informational booths, food and drinks. Free, non-perishable food donation requested.

Visit www.sustainablelivingassociation. org/sla-events/earth-day-2012/ for details.

Parks, Open Lands and Natural Areas Call or visit the following websites for kid-friendly trail suggestions, safety tips, weather updates and activity printouts, then plan your own educational outing!

Arapaho and Roosevelt National Forests and Pawnee National Grassland: www.usda.gov/, 970-295-6600 Colorado Division of Wildlife: http://wildlife.state.co.us/LandWater/ StateWildlifeAreas/Pages/swa.aspx, 970-472-4300 Colorado State Parks: www.parks. state.co.us/, 303-866-3437 Fort Collins Natural Areas: www. fcgov.com/naturalareas/, 970-416-2815 Larimer County Open Lands: www.co.larimer.co.us/naturalresources/ ParkAreas.htm, 970-498-7000 Loveland Open Lands/Natural Areas: www.ci.loveland.co.us/index. aspx?page=230, 970-962-2000 Rocky Mountain National Park: www. nps.gov/romo/index.htm, 970-586-1206

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healthy living

Tackling hard-to-recycle items

Sometimes it takes a bit more effort to keep something out of the landfill A n N S c h i m ke

S

ome of the most environmentally conscious among us end up with stuff that can be confounding when it comes time to reuse or recycle.

I faced this problem when the strap on one of our convertible car seats became frayed and torn. We had to retire the seat, which led to the question, “What do you do with a big hunk of plastic and foam that can’t be sold or reused?”

I’ve asked some version of that question about lots of items that have worn out their welcome at my house. It could be ripped sneakers, dried-out glue sticks or old holiday cards. I want them gone, but I don’t want them taking up space in a landfill.

In honor of Earth Day this month, why not go the extra mile and tackle some of those hard-to-recycle items stowed in your basement or garage? They may not be accepted in your curb-side bin or even at the municipal recycling center, but programs exist that target such items. Here’s a look at some of them.

Car seats Safe Kids Larimer County partners with the Colorado State Patrol, Troop 3C, to collect and recycle old, unsafe car seats. The seats, as well as car seat bases, can be dropped off any time on the south side of the garage building at the Colorado State Patrol office, located at 3832 South I-25, FC (the office is just off of I-25 northbound, just north of the Harmony exit).

Stack the seats neatly on the growing pile. The seats are taken away for recycling every February. For more 12

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information, call Safe Kids Larimer County at 970-495-7504 or go to www.safekidslcc.org.

Athletic shoes The Nike Reuse-A-Shoe program accepts all brands of worn out athletic shoes (plus LIVESTRONG wristbands) at Nike and Converse retail stores. The shoes are

ground into a material that is used to build playground and track surfaces.

You can drop off up to 10 pairs of shoes (but not cleats or spikes) at retail locations.

The closest store in northern Colorado is the Nike Factory Store, 5704 McWhinney Blvd., Loveland, 970-663-6570. You can also ship shoes directly to Nike’s recycling facility: Nike Grind Processing, 3552 Avenue of Commerce, Memphis, TN 38125.

For more information, check Nike’s Reuse-A-Shoe website at www.nike reuseashoe.com.

Glue sticks...and much more TerraCycle, an 11-year-old New Jersey company, runs nationwide recycling campaigns called “brigades” that target hard-to-recycle items ranging from glue bottles to corks to energy bar wrappers to drink pouch packaging.

Individuals or organizations such as

schools or businesses can sign up for the brigades online. TerraCycle covers the cost of shipping recyclable items to the company.

Most brigades are open to new participants, but a few have waiting lists because all current slots are filled. Many of TerraCycle’s brigades offer points for the items collected that can be redeemed for cash donations to the collecting organization or another charity.

The company’s “Elmer’s Glue Crew Brigade,” which is currently open to new participants, accepts all Elmer’s glue sticks, glue bottles, refill jars and glitter glue tubes. Once the glue packaging is shipped to TerraCycle (with prepaid UPS labels), it is recycled into items such as plastic bins.

For more information about TerraCycle Brigades, go to www.terra cycle.com/en-US/.

Holiday cards Most greeting cards are easily recycled in curbside recycling bins, but you can get even greener by reusing them instead. If you’re not crafty yourself, send them to St. Jude’s Children’s Ranch, which serves abused and abandoned children in Nevada. The ranch collects all kinds of greeting cards (birthday, Christmas, Easter, thank you, etc.) and reuses them to make new cards that are sold in packs of 10 to benefit the program. When you donate, make sure the backside of the card front is free of writing. The program cannot accept Disney, Hallmark or American Greeting cards. Mail donations to: St. Jude’s Ranch for Children, Recycled Card Program, 100 St. Jude’s Street, Boulder City, NV 89005.

For more information on the program, go to www.stjudesranch.org/ shop/recycled-card-program.

Great education: no exceptions, no excuses

T

he issue of education is at the forefront

brings college courses to the high school

of parents’ minds constantly. Parents

campus, and held during the school day.

school, per se. They are devoted to taking stu-

want the best education for their child, to

There are also off-campus college courses

dents as they come, whether they are at-risk,

foster their talents and help them strengthen

available to students. The tuition for these

on track or excelling academically. CECFC is

their weaknesses. It is no secret, either, that

courses are paid for by the school.

devoted to students, no matter their history.

the education system in our country has

The enrollment process begins with a

CECFC is not an alternative charter

The CECFC campus is located at 4800

its issues. Many groups over the years have

placement test. CECFC employs the same

Wheaton Drive in Fort Collins. They

proposed and implemented changes to our

placement test used by Front Range Com-

plan to offer a bus system free of charge,

munity College to determine the starting

free and reduced-cost lunches, part time

for CECFC, and brings a deep commitment

point for each student, and then designs a

schedule options for home-schooled stu-

to education and a wealth of experience to

curriculum around their strengths, chal-

dents, and remain tuition-free. Boasting

the new charter school. Sandi Brown, the

lenges and dreams. The school is complete-

an estimated class size of only 24, and an

Academic Dean, brings over 30 years of

ly free to students.

incredibly flexible curriculum, CECFC’s

school system, improved tests, and even opened fancy private schools – all trying to address systemic shortcomings.

Sandi Brown and Colorado State Senator Keith King are spearheading a new charter high school called Colorado Early Colleges Fort Collins (CECFC). Its mission is to prepare every 9th through 12th grade student that comes through their doors for college and the workforce, regardless of their academic or economic background. The new charter school serves Fort Collins, Greeley, Windsor and Loveland.

Senator Keith King is the Administrator

education and outreach experience to CE-

The concurrent enrollment model aims

model is leagues from the typical public

CFC, and her passion for connecting with

to leave students with 30 – 120 college

high school experience. They expect their

students and helping them succeed is un-

credits when they graduate high school. So

first enrollment to include 240 students,

mistakable. In 2011, Brown developed three

far, 91% of college classes taken by students

but are prepared for more.

distinct graduation plans: one directs stu-

at the Colorado Springs charter school

dents toward an Associate degree, another,

where Sandi Brown has most recently

the CECFC campus, on Saturday, April 7 at

to a 4-year degree, and the third is designed

focused her efforts are passed. Partner col-

10am; Friday, May 4th at 7pm; and Saturday,

to help graduates enter into the workforce

leges involved with the Colorado Springs

May 19th at 10am. For further information,

prepared to succeed in their chosen field.

charter school include Pikes Peak, UCCS,

please call (970) 377-0044 or visit their web-

and Colorado Technical University.

site at www.cecfc914.org.

This early college enrollment method

>/72 /2D3@B7A3;3<B

Informational meetings are being held at

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nutrition

Egg-ceptionally good

Healthy-again eggs should be on your menu R I CH A R D K E L L E R

T

he much-maligned egg has had a topsy-turvy history over the last few decades. A staple of meals across the globe, it was banished from people’s diets during the 1970s and 80s after nutritionists declared it high in cholesterol and saturated fats. Luckily, thanks in part to the popularity of low-carbohydrate diets, as well as a bit of scientific sanity, the egg’s status was restored and even enhanced to the point of being declared an important part of many dietary programs. Below are a number of reasons why eggs should be a part of your family’s daily eating routine.

the organic variety have a different taste and paler yolk color due in part to the natural feed eaten by free-roaming hens.

Hens that consume a diet without any meat or fish produce vegetarian eggs.

Hens dining on feed consisting of canola, linseed and flax seed generate those in the Omega-3 category. You can also find eggs at your local farmers’ markets.

Or try raising your own chickens for

Come lunch, the eggs are cooled down and mixed with various greens – romaine lettuce and leaf spinach are particularly good – cheese and various lean cuts of meat to create a chef salad. If families want to forgo the vegetables, boiled eggs can be quickly transformed into an egg salad with low-fat mayonnaise, Dijon-style mustard, paprika, and red onion.

For dinner, eggs come off the stove top

fresh, healthy eggs. The kids can learn a lot from having chickens.

and head to the oven they’re mixed into a whole wheat pie crust with meat, cheese and various vegetables – peppers, mushrooms and spinach, in particular – to form a quiche. Eggs take center stage again in a frittata, which mixes the compact oval of protein with peppers, potatoes, onion and cheese, among many fillings. If you want to get really creative, and your family has some patience, eggs can be added with various ingredients to form a soufflé.

No matter how your family likes theirs prepared, eggs are an important part of a daily diet as long as there are no allergy issues. So, don’t listen to the naysayers and their protests against the egg’s cholesterol and fat. Instead, eat and enjoy all of the its health and nutrition benefits.

Nutritional facts Yes, one egg does contain a high concentration of saturated fats and cholesterol, which is mostly found in the yolk.

However, the bad parts of the egg are counteracted by the good, including its low calorie count, zero carbohydrates and sugars, and its sources of Riboflavin, Phosphorous and Vitamin B12.

Health benefits The good effects of eggs are many. For instance, a single egg contains one-half of the government-recommend three servings of protein. Eggs also contain choline, a naturally produced chemical providing, among other things, protection from inflammation and continuous communication between nerves and muscles. Luten, another chemical in eggs, helps reduce age-related macular degeneration and cataracts. Studies have even shown a daily serving prevents blood clots, lowering the risk of heart attacks and strokes.

Varieties Eggs no longer come in standard white packaging. There are now several types that families can purchase at their local supermarket. For example, those of 14

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Cooking Eggs can be prepared in thousands of ways and utilized in every meal from breakfast to dinner. They can be eaten plain, paired with another protein, such as turkey bacon or ham, combined with dairy or vegetables, or added into bread or muffin recipes.

Staring at breakfast, eggs can be scrambled, boiled, fried, or sunny-side up. Getting more adventurous, eggs can be cracked into a shallow pan of boiling water until it results in a poached creation of egg white surrounding yolk.

Even more ambitious is adding fillings into frying eggs to produce an omelet.

JOHN M. JAMES, M.D.

Certified by the American Board of Allergy & Immunology and The American Board of Pediatrics

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community news

Local mother and son present their Red State/Blue State game

Red State/Blue State is an Americanhistory game that covers everything from politics to pop culture. Test your knowledge of US facts and trivia to win electoral votes and send your candidate to the White House.

Tyler and Sherri Pollard will present the game they invented, at 2pm, Apr. 4 in the Loveland Public Library Runschmunkel Reading Room of the Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s department. Check out the game at www.RedStateBlueState.net.

Volunteers for Outdoor Colorado hosts family-friendly volunteer day For the fourth year in a row, VOC is working with the High Plains Environmental Center to host a family-friendly volunteer day, May 5. This year, families with children ages 8 and up are invited to help construct a new native-plant nursery at the center. The work will involve everything from transplanting seedlings and planting hedges to constructing a greenhouse and nursery beds.

Volunteers are welcome for just the morning, just the afternoon, or the full day. VOC will provide lunch.

The HPEC is located in Loveland at 1854 Piney River Dr., 622-9676.

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www.suburbitat.org. Also, contact Volunteers for Outdoor Colorado at 303715-1010, ext. 111. www.voc.org.

Family and friends unite to raise money to help with the medical expenses Charlie Porter was in an automobile accident on Saturday, Jan. 28. He was leaving work in Red Feather to get home to his family and lost control of his Bronco.

Charlie Porter

He was airlifted by Flight for Life to Medical Center of the Rockies in Loveland. Charlie suffered many serious injuries and spent nearly 2 weeks in the ICU on a ventilator. He had surgery to repair his facial trauma. He is currently on a surgical/ trauma unit at MCR where he continues to recover. His physical injuries are healing. The brain damage continues to be immeasurable at this time, but it is clear that Charlie will need continued rehabilitation.

Charlie is a husband and father to two children. He is in a critical time of healing and regaining his level of functioning which is yet to be determined.

Charlie and his wife, Lorna, have no health insurance, and the medical bills are mounting. It is our hope to be able help lessen this burden for Charlie and Lorna. Thank you all for your donations, support and most importantly your positive thoughts. We do believe in miracles and we hope for one each day. Donations can be sent, in Charlie Porterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s name, to: Warren Federal Credit Union Wellington, 7670 5th St, Wellington Colorado 80549. If you have any questions or would like to speak to a family representative, call Mimi Davidson at 970-581-6122.

Receive free training to help families breathe easier Did you know that Americans spend up to 90 percent of their time indoors, and that indoor air quality is up to 70 percent worse than outdoor air pollution, according to numerous studies by federal agencies such as the EPA, CDC, and HUD? Were you aware that one in four households in Fort Collins reports to have a family member with a respiratory problem, according to Air Quality surveys? So if you’ve been considering a way to help families, individuals, children, and seniors in our community improve their health, here’s a great opportunity to step up.

The City of Fort Collins organization is offering its next Healthy Sustainable Homes training program from April 3-9, which allows volunteers to conduct free, in-home air-quality assessments and teach Fort Collins residents about the health risks posed by common home pollutants and what low-cost or no-cost recommendations they can implement.

Volunteers will receive 20 hours of free training with numerous experts in specific areas of indoor air quality pollution—from the assessment tool, communications, and behavior change, how to address mold, healthy ventilation, pests, and contaminants—to asthma and allergy triggers, and green and safe cleaning solutions. Once certified as Master Home Educators, volunteers will be asked to contribute 20 hours a year towards conducting in-home assessments and community outreach.

To learn more about the program and submit a Volunteer Application Form, visit www.fcgov.com/healthy homes. For additional questions, contact Mary Pat Aardrup at mpaardrup@ fcgov.com, or at 970-416-2832. Citizens interested in having a free in-home assessment are also welcome to visit the website, or contact Mary Pat Aardrup.

Greeley offers 2011 food-tax rebates for low-income households The City of Greeley’s 2011 food tax rebate program application process for low-income Greeley residents runs through May 31. The maximum rebate for 2011 is $45 per person; however, if

the applicant received food stamps, the rebate amount will be reduced.

Applicants must have been Greeley residents for at least 10 months in 2011 and must be a resident at the time of application. Proof of residency is required. Qualified family members are legal dependents claimed on federal form 1040. A Social Security number must be provided for each family mem-

to contribute suggestions.

“This process allows the community to join in the excitement of the completion of this great, revitalized building in downtown Fort Collins“ said Board President Mike Liggett.

Names can be submitted electronically through a link on the library website at www.PoudreLibraries.org and in person at each of the three Pou-

Name suggestions for the Library will be accepted through May 1.

ber claimed on the application.

Maximum income limits for food tax rebate eligibility are the current limits set by the U.S. Department of Agriculture for qualification for the federal Food Stamp Program.

Applications and bi-lingual assistance are available at Greeley City Hall, 1000 10th Street or at 970-3509748. Office hours are 8am to 5pm, Monday through Friday. The application and instructions are also available in English and Spanish online at http://greeleygov.com/finance/Food TaxRebate.aspx.

Name the “new” library The Main Library is in the final months of construction and the Poudre River Public Library Board of Trustees is asking the public to submit ideas for naming the library at 201 Peterson Street.

All Library District residents are invited

dre River Public Libraries. Suggestions will be taken through May 1 and the winning name will be announced at the May 14 meeting of the Library Board of Trustees. The new name will be used in the promotion of the Library Grand Re-Opening scheduled for June.

Community members submitting the top names will be recognized at the reopening ceremonies.

“The remodel and expansion of the Main Library has been an exciting project,” Holly Carroll, Library District Executive Director stated. “The Library District is looking forward to naming the building as the final step in the modernization of the library.”

Name submittals need to be in compliance with the Library District’s Naming Policy which states “Library buildings shall be named based on the building location, geography or neighborhood.” r m pa r e nt

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Sticks an stones..d. and word s Bullying takes many forms in today’s connected world Lynn Utzman-Nichols

W

hen we think of bullying, we picture a boy pushing another boy into a locker, throwing a punch on the playground, or shoving a kid in the hallway. Yet bullying is not just physical, not just boys. Girls know how to bully, too. They prefer the social realm of spreading rumors, texting insults, purposefully leaving others out or threatening to end a friendship if they don’t get their way.

Bullying doesn’t happen just at school or the mall—it also happens online and on phones. Cyber bullying—defined as using the Internet, mobile phones or other digital devices to harm others—involves hurtful texts, compromising photos and putdowns on social media sites (see sidebar).

Finally, it’s not just occasional. According to StopBullying.gov, nine out of ten students report bullying at their schools and six out of ten say they witness it every day.

You may be thinking not my school, not my kid. Yet when you consider this wider definition of bullying that includes not just physical but social and verbal attacks, it may be time to think again. Kids might describe bullying as just messing around or “playing with” someone; and you might be tempted to think when your daughter acts catty that it’s just a phase she’s going through.

“Bullying isn’t mere child’s play. I’m working with a lot of adults right now who were bullied in school as a child and still have issues to work through,” says Andrea Holt, Behavioral Health Specialist with Poudre Valley Health System.

Bullying can have serious consequenc18

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es that sometimes last well into adulthood.

The victim might struggle with ongoing self-esteem issues and the bully might get worse and end up in jail. The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children website (americanspcc.org/ education/bullying) says that up to 25 percent of school bullies are convicted of a criminal offense in their adult years.

Now is the time to talk with your children about bullying and give them skills to deal with it.

Why do kids bully?

According to www.stopbullying.gov, kids bully for power and to cause harm.

And it’s not just the kids who feel bad about themselves and have to lash out at others to feel better. It’s often the popular kids who have decent self-esteem who take pride in having control over others. They may bully to keep or gain social status. Yet some bully because they have been bullied themselves.

Stopbullying.gov says that bullies often possess the following traits: quick to blame others, aggressive, frequently get into trouble at school, won’t take responsibility and always have to win.

Who gets bullied?

Bullies usually pick on kids with less social power, who are physically smaller than their peers and who are less savvy when it comes to playing the social back-and-forth game. Holt doesn’t think you can define who will get bullied and who won’t, but she does

think it might have to do with how we respond to the world: “You could make the same remark to ten kids—five will feel bullied and five will shrug it off. Maybe some kids are simply more sensitive. Or maybe they have fewer buffers in their lives, things that make them feel supported and validated, but it’s hard to say.”

Signs do exist when a child is being bullied. “Whenever kids don’t want to go to school, pretend to be sick, go to the nurse’s office a lot and have trouble with schoolwork and grades, there’s a chance they might be getting bullied. It doesn’t always mean they are, but it’s an opportunity for parents to explore and ask questions,” says Holt.

Other signs include damaged or missing belongings, unexplained injuries, frequent headaches or stomachaches, trouble sleeping or eating, no interest in school and friends, moody, angry or feeling helpless, a desire to harm or blame themselves and attempts to hurt themselves.

What’s the best response to bullying?

Standing up against bullying is hard for kids, both as a victim and a witness.

Most kids don’t want to put themselves in the spotlight or open themselves up to future attacks. Standing up against a member of the popular crowd has its own social ramifications.

“Kids who want to stand up walk a fine line. It’s hard to find a way to empower kids without sending the message

to fight back. As grownups, we know that fighting back isn’t a solution to conflicts in life or work,” says Holt.

On the other hand, the advice to “just ignore it” doesn’t work either. When kids just ignore the bullying they often walk away feeling like a victim—abused and ashamed. “When adults tell kids to ignore bullying, kids feel like they are not being taken seriously, and that their feelings don’t matter,” adds Holt.

It’s rare, but some kids will stand up—those with self-confidence and a strong sense of right and wrong. If your child is one of those, explore subtle ways for her to voice her opinion that won’t open her up to attack. Brainstorm responses, like “leave her alone,” or “just drop it,” or to a friend, “C’mon, let’s get out of here.” The Pacer Center offers great stories and ideas for kids and teens. Have your child or teen check out www.pacerkids againstbullying.org or www.pacerteens againstbullying.org for inspiration.

“Even if your child can’t stand up, suggest that they approach the child who was bullied after the fact and say something nice or encouraging to them,” says Holt.

Doing so makes them both feel better. This advice applies to verbal bullying, too.

“The idea that sticks and stones break bones but words can never hurt you simply is not true. Verbal bullying is significantly harder for kids to deal with than physical bullying. When it’s physical, it’s obvious. There’s a bruise or a mark that proves something just happened to you. With words, there’s no validation that you were hurt,” explains Holt.

Another solution is to simply resist joining in. A silent response sends a message of non-support. Unfortunately, kids more often than not join in to protect their social status.

Finally, it’s important for kids to tell an adult. If your child doesn’t want to talk with a teacher or school counselor in person, they can do it via email with a request that the adult keeps it anonymous.

Kids assume adults will discover bullying and deal with it, but this usually doesn’t happen. Four out of five bullying events take place at school, but only 14 percent are noticed and addressed by teachers.

That’s why it’s important to tell.

But what if your child is the one being bullied? Stopbullying.gov recommends that kids who are bullied should

Cell phones as Swords: Using Technology to Hurt Whether you use the term Gen Z, Gen M (for multitasking), Gen C (for connected) or Net Gen to describe our kids’ generation, they all mean the same thing—our kids know how to use technology. “While technology and social media have brought some wonderful opportunities, they’ve also opened doors to danger and hurt,” says Andrea Holt, Behavioral Health Specialist with Poudre Valley Health System.

Cyber bullying occurs when people use computers or phones to send texts, emails, or social media postings to insult, put down, or expose someone to social ridicule. It has the unique consequence of possibly living forever and being seen by millions—friends, acquaintances and strangers. Something we never had to worry about as kids.

“I can’t tell you how many times social media, email and texting come up in therapy sessions as a source for upset,” adds Holt.

Here’s how you can protect your child against cyber bullying and help them respond if it happens:

Befriend.

If your child has a social media site, monitor it. If you see something that raises your eyebrows, explore it with your child. Set limits on time and use. Keep the computer in a public place. Discuss what sites your child can and cannot visit. Consider adding parental controls. If your child plays games online, make sure it’s limited to friends and not a public setting, where adults can pose as kids and “talk” with them as a game character.

Also, set a rule that you get to periodically and spontaneously pick up your child’s phone and sift through their texts. Breaking privacy? Maybe, but he’s a child and you are a parent. You have the right to know what’s going on, plus it will make him think twice about what he texts—which can only be a good thing.

Talk about what’s appropriate.

Make a rule against bad language, name-calling and snarky responses. “Explain that if you wouldn’t say something to someone’s face, you shouldn’t say it online or via a text,” advises Holt.

Discuss consequences if the rules are not followed, e.g. loss of the device. Also, talk about how postings live on and on and that inappropriate photos can get kids into real trouble with the law.

Discuss privacy settings.

Make sure your child’s Facebook page is not open to all and that she’s not publishing her cell phone number or address on line. If your child has received a hurtful text or post, help her block that person’s texts or eliminate access to her social media site.

tell the bully to “stop it” in a strong voice. If the bullying continues, walk away and act like you don’t care. Then, tell a trusted adult. Other solutions include travelling with a group and joining groups, like school clubs and sports.

Kids with a group of friends are less of a target. There’s a myth among kids that telling an adult will make the bullying worse, but research shows that kids who tell often are bullied less in the future.

What can parents do to help?

It’s awful to find out that your child is being bullied. If yours is, offer support:

“Empathize with him. Tell him you would feel the same way, that it must’ve been a really hard day, and invite him to come up with solutions,” suggests Holt who sees it as a golden moment to teach coping skills.

You can also talk with the school counselor or a trusted teacher, support your child in making friends and joining groups, role play responses and seek professional help, if needed. When dealt with in the present, bullying doesn’t have to affect a child’s future.

Poudre Valley Health Systems sponsored this article. r m pa r e nt

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Live the legend

in your own

backyard

Magical fairy

Fairy Gardening® www.fairygardening.com; used with permission.

gardens

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I

By Alison O’Connor

magine a garden perfect for children, filled with miniature mushrooms, petite furniture, mosscovered rocks and tiny trees all in a kid-sized container. Let them delve into a world of magic, fantasy, and dreams through fairy gardening.

A current craze, fairy gardening is essentially gardening in miniature; the idea is that your garden has been captured by the tiny beings of myth.

Fun for kids of all ages—children to adults—it’s a wonderful way for your children to use their imaginations to create and plant their own gardens.

The best part? You probably have everything you need around the house to get started and can go shopping together for plant material.

Legends of fairies abound, with some myths holding that fairies take up residence in gardens, maintaining the area to please other fairies and do good deeds for humans—with a bit of mischief thrown in for fun. Fairy gardening is an adaptation from this legend, with fairies and humans living harmoniously together through landscapes. Disney characters such as Tinkerbelle fuel the obsession; my friend has a 3-year-old daughter who, in addition to having a fairy birthday cake this year, wore her “Tink” costume, complete with wings, and sprinkled fairy dust on the tops of her guest’s heads.

Like many gardening hobbies, you can invest as much or as little as you want. Accessories for purchase, such as houses, bridges, arbors, twinkling lights and characters, can be expensive, but add charm and enchantment.

spots…just like children. Fairies also tend to eat what’s in the garden, but remember that fairy food and food for children is not the same thing.

Parents, please plant only “safe” plants and not those that are potentially toxic or poisonous.

Soft places to rest, such as mossy rocks, are also appealing to fairies.

Encourage children to envision what it would be like to be a fairy and what they would want their habitat to be. Do they want a small pond to throw stones in? Do they like to read under a shady tree? Do they like to

Fairy Gardening® www.fairygardening.com; used with permission.

Yet with imagination and creativity you can create similar accessories by shopping at thrift stores or making your own.

Consider what you already have hiding in a junk drawer, toy chest, or the back of the closet. Let your children decide what they want their garden to look like, whether it’s gossamer fabric canopies or a path for Matchbox cars.

To get started, consider your container. Containers are kid-friendly, allowing you to control the size of the garden, portable, and can stay in your child’s room or play area. Many can contain houseplants that thrive indoors in the winter and outdoors in summer, given appropriate water and light. Choose accessories that are tolerant to outdoor weather.

As far as selecting a container, anything goes. Fairy gardens have been created from old suitcases, plastic or clay pots, terrarium containers, wooden barrels, baskets and more.

Whatever strikes your fancy, remember to provide drainage for the plants, which shouldn’t sit in standing water. If your container doesn’t have a hole, consider adding one by carefully drilling a couple in the bottom. You can also consider buying a kit that contains everything you need to get started. Many local greenhouses and nurseries carry supplies.

After selecting the container, pick up some potting media. A standard media used for container flowers or vegetables will work—it’s generally lightweight, has a lot of pore space and drains well. Avoid using native soil from your garden. It will likely be heavy with too much clay and can contain harmful diseases or organisms that may affect plant growth. Some potting mixes have added fertilizer, but this releases to plants over a period of time and regular fertilizer is necessary once plants are established.

When it comes to planting your container, remember that there are different types of fairies that live in each place in the garden—there are woodland fairies, flower fairies and water fairies. Create your garden to attract as many types of fairies as possible. These shy creatures like hiding

play hide and seek with their friends?

Discuss all of these ideas before planting and encourage your child to draw what they want their garden to look like.

Next, go plant shopping! Shop your favorite greenhouses and nurseries for perfect plants for your garden. Size matters. A “tree” in your fairy garden might be rosemary or a miniature rose (careful of thorns).

Understory plants include creeping thyme, wooly thyme and baby tears.

Moss can grow quickly, so be ready to prune it back. “Shrubs” include types of sedums, hen and chicks and many

smaller houseplants. Most plants will be trial and error. Some will do better than others, but that’s why container gardening is fun—it’s ever changing and dynamic. Herbs are well suited to container gardens, adding delightful scent as well as quirky texture. Think bugleweed, santolina, lavender, violas, ferns, primroses, Ficus and ornamental strawberry for contrasting leaves, and be sure to add flowers—their color is important to fairies. For example, purple is a favorite and many fairy royalty wear shades of violet. Pink flowers encourage quiet fairies and represent kindness, love and friendship. Shades of red encourage creativity, energy and inspiration.

Once your child plants his wonderland, be sure to water it regularly.

This is a great lesson for children to learn to care for something living.

Encourage them to check the soil a few times a week to see if it’s dry and remind them that the fairies (and plants) need water. Your garden will be like most houseplants: if indoors, it will probably need to be watered once a week. If you move it outdoors in the summer, it may need water once a day. But teach your children to gently stick their finger in the soil (up to the second knuckle) and test for moisture. Too much water can be as detrimental to plant growth as too little water. You can also fertilize on a regular basis—perhaps once per month.

As the plants grow too large for the container, transplant them to the garden and start an outdoor fairy garden or start a new one in a larger size pot. As the plants grow, water needs will increase. Your children can also take the skills they learned and plant all kinds of containers, like one that grows everything they need to make fresh salsa. Container gardening is a fun, hands-on way to get kids to garden, and keep them interested.

Create your family’s magical place, where dreams flourish and tiny flying creatures dance and celebrate the goodness of gardens.

Alison O’Connor is a Horticulture Agent at Colorado State University Extension in Larimer County. r m pa r e nt

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poudre school district news

Seniors’ volunteer dedication spans 24 Years

Pictured left to right: Bud Purath, George VanArsdale, Stan Usel, Ken Mille

Corinne Gauther

Pictured left to right: Jean Purath, Maude Usel, Susan Sullivan

In 1988, Corinne Gauther was working for Poudre School District in the Records Department. She donated some shelves for teachers and their classrooms. Today, the Teacher’s Closet is housed in the Partnership Center, and consists of much more than five shelves!

The Teacher’s Closet (previously known as the V.I.P.S. Closet) was organized to provide a means for businesses and individuals to support the students and teachers of PSD, by contributing surplus merchandise to the school district, as well as being the distribution point for donated new school supplies. PSD teachers and staff can “shop for free” every Thursday, to supplement their classroom without impacting school or individual teacher’s budgets.

Since the inception of the Closet, Corinne Gauther has volunteered every Tuesday and Thursday during the school year, receiving donations, organizing the shelves, and keeping the Teacher’s Closet organized. Along 26

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with her, every Thursday afternoon that the closet is open, George VanArsdale, Ken Miller, Maude and Stan Usel, Bud and Jean Purath, Susan Sullivan, and recently retired Ada Fosket, have diligently volunteered their time to help teachers shop for supplies. For many of them, they have been volunteering here for over 20 years, with a total contribution per volunteer of over 1,700 hours!

Many of them have enjoyed getting to know the teachers as they come in to shop, and have treasured the friendships they have formed with the other volunteers over such a long period of time. Their dedication and sense of responsibility is amazing.

The Teacher’s Closet accepts new and gently used items such as crafts, miscellaneous office supplies, and school supplies. For more information, please contact Cyndi Gile, 970-490-3208 or cynthiag@psdschools.org.

Cache La Poudre kindergartners celebrate

learning with “Penguin Day” After learning that Antarctica is far away from Laporte and probably too cold for them to visit, kindergartners at Cache La Poudre Elementary creatively brought the coldest, southernmost continent to their school with their Penguin Day celebration.

The special day was the culminating event to a geography unit on Antarctica that involved the kindergartners comparing and contrasting Antarctica to where they live in Colorado. To celebrate all that they learned, the young students wore penguin headpieces as they participated in a parade and several penguin games.

The festivities included measuring themselves against a life-size replica of an Emperor penguin, acting like Rockhopper penguins as they hopped over rocks, caring for a penguin egg between their feet, playfully sliding on their penguin bellies, and enjoying a tasty snack of goldfish.

Putnam 4th-Graders learning engineering skills with marshmallows and toothpicks Working together in teams of three, Putnam Elementary fourth-graders carefully pondered the best way to put together toothpicks and marshmallows, as they tried to outdo each other by building the

The Porter Family would like to sincerely thank the communities of Red Feather Lakes, Livermore & Fort Collins for their overwelming support of the Fundraisers for Charlie Porter.

Charlie Porter was in a roll-over accident on January 28, 2012. He countinues to recover.

For information or donations vist: www.giveforward.com/team porter

Donating Businesses 970-881-2450

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The Wright Life Western Ridge Resaturant and Resort The Fort Collins Pond Hockey Leauge The Shambala Moutain Center Continental West Realty Tool Box Creative The North Forty News The Northern Colorado Business Report

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PSD Calendar of Events Apr. 10

6 :30pm, Board of Education business meeting, Johannsen Support Services Complex, 2407 LaPorte Ave. Apr. 13 K - 12 Parent/Teacher Conferences, No School for students Apr. 15-21 N ational Public School Volunteer Week, Recognize school volunteers!

Apr. 16 K -8 Teacher Collaboration Day, No School for K-8 students Apr. 24 6 :30pm, Board of Education business meeting and work session, Johannsen Support Services Complex, 2407 LaPorte Ave.

Hewlett Packard engineer Dave Matthews offers guidance to Putnam Elementary fourthgraders Alaina Treffer (left) and Jalini Waxman as they work on building a tower using only marshmallows and toothpicks.

tallest tower in the classroom.

“This is fun. You can practice and practice until you build the biggest marshmallow toothpick tower in the world,” says Alaina Treffer, fourth-grader.

“It’s fun because you get marshmallow on your fingers“ To promote interest in their jobs, local engineers from Advanced Micro Devices, Hewlett Packard (HP), Intel and Avago are giving presentations and hands-on projects to Poudre School District fourth- and fifth-graders as part of National Engineering Week, an annual event in which more than 40,000 engineers across the US and Canada visit local classrooms and talk to students about using math and science in their jobs.

At Putnam Elementary, HP engineers Linda Kingham and Dave Matthews talked with fourth-graders about the different types of engineers and showed them how engineers have made an impact on daily life through tools like the Smartphone.

“We want to get students exposed to some of the things engineers do. We want to show them how engineering helps bring things together,” says Kingham.

“We want to get them interested early - in fourth and fifth grade – before they get to middle school,” adds Matthews.

Matthews kicked off the hands-on building activity by showing the students different models of towers made out of 28

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toothpicks and marshmallows, explaining different construction methods that worked and others that didn’t work. The student teams were then challenged to build the tallest tower in the class, which also had to stand solidly on its own for at least one minute to qualify as a winner.

“Engineers learn by doing,” says Matthews. “A part of this is discovering how you can build something with the right shape and the right dimension so you can build something that will last.”

“We’re using our imaginations so we can be creative,” says Anastasia Romero, fourth-grader.

Teammate fourth-grader Isabella Serna notes, “And we’re using teamwork.

This is just fun.”

Outstanding PSD teachers recognized at special banquet Six outstanding Poudre School District teachers selected for the 2012 Excellence in Education Awards, the Promising Teacher Award winner, and the Integrated Services Mary Hull Award winners were honored at the Excellence in Education Banquet held in March.

Formerly titled the Distinguished Teacher Award program, the Excellence in Education Award program has recognized teachers for more than 25 years.

Outstanding educators are nominated from across the district this year for the

Excellence in Education and Promising Teacher awards as a result of their commitment to student excellence.

Teachers honored include: • E xcellence in Education Awards:

Kristy Bibbey—PHS Robin Brown—Irish Elementary Rachel Drago—RMHS Mary Pat Hulse—Blevins Karen Lemmon—FRHS Amanda Manley—FCHS • Promising Teacher Award: Katie Parsanko Malone—PHS •M ary Hull Award: Karyn Schrom—CLPE •M ary Hull Collaborative Award: Jennifer Musci—PHS •M ary Hull Honorary Award: Bonnie Kilpatrick—FRHS • C ommunity Education Advocate Award— To be announced • P romising Teacher nominees recognized: Lindsay Hacker (Wellington MS), Elizabeth Irvine-McDermott (Irish Elem.), Kim Smith (Blevins), Andy Stevens (FRHS), and Katherine Volkmann (RMHS).

•M ary Hull nominees: Coreen Boeding, DJ Seday, Greta Tyler Budelmann, Robert Allen, Carol Eikleberry, Jodi Atack Cloud, David Wood, and Tricia Van Horssen.

•M ary Hull Collaborative Award nominees: Leslie Shaner, Scott Kemp, and Kristin Rust.

•M ary Hull Honorary Award nominees: Kay Christman and Patti Haugen.

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greeley-evans district 6 news

Northridge High School student named as a Boettcher Scholar Alexis “Lexi” Gerk, a senior at Northridge High School, has been offered the prestigious Boettcher Foundation Scholarship for 2012.

The Boettcher Foundation’s Scholars program recognizes scholastics and leadership, rewarding outstanding high school seniors who demonstrate the potential to make significant contributions to Colorado. Only 40 scholarships are awarded each year across the entire state, out of more than 1,300 applicants. The foundation provides a four-year scholarship to attend colleges or universities in Colorado, including full tuition, fees, and books, plus a stipend to help cover living expenses.

“It is an absolutely amazing opportunity,” says Lexi. “I am so thankful for it.”

Lexi is planning to study biology and psychology in college, en route to a career in medicine and health. She is still considering colleges, including the University of Denver and the University of Kentucky. Should she choose to attend college or university in the state of Colorado, she can accept the Boettcher scholarship.

Lexi was selected for the Boettcher Scholarship based on superior academic achievement, commitment to school and community activities, and strength of character. Boettcher Scholars must be among the top 5 percent of their graduating class, and have an SAT score of at least 1,200 or an ACT score of at least 27. According to the Boettcher Foundation, Scholars share two overriding characteristics: an intense intellectual curiosity and a passion for involvement.

“I have had wonderful teachers at Northridge who 30

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have helped me push myself to take challenging courses,” says Lexi. “Their support really set me up to achieve this scholarship.”

NCMC, Inc. and Banner Health help create Health Science Academy for students with $300,000 donation High school students in District 6 will soon have the opportunity for an increased focus of study in health science education through a four-year career pathways program. The program, named the Banner/NCMC Health Science Academy, will enable students to graduate from high school with the skills, knowledge and certification to enter a variety of health care jobs or pursue further medical training in college, thanks to the generous donations from the NCMC, Inc. Board of Directors and Banner Health/North Colorado Medical Center.

NCMC, Inc. and Banner Health/ NCMC have pledged $150,000 each to fund a major $300,000 expansion of the existing health education program that currently serves 22 students in grades 11-12 at Greeley Central High School. The Banner/ NCMC Health Science Academy will offer a comprehensive curriculum capable of serving up to 200 students in grades 9-12, with lessons delivered in a simulated clinical environment, using state-of-the-art equipment such as hospital beds, medical mannequins, and an array of diagnostic and therapeutic equipment and supplies.

“We are proud to be a part of giving increased educational opportunities for young men and women to explore multiple

healthcare options,” says Rick Sutton, NCMC’s chief executive officer. “We believe that providing this avenue to obtain the needed training is important to ensure that we have highly trained, committed people in the future health care workforce.”

“The NCMC, Inc. Board of Directors and Banner Health are showing a true commitment to our students and our community, and on behalf of School District 6, I thank them for their support,” says Ranelle Lang, superintendent of District 6. “Their vision and involvement will help us create a very unique, worldclass, 21st-century program that you’re not going to find in many other places around the country. It will be a shining star for our district and our community.”

Students who enroll in the Banner/NCMC Health Science Academy will be able to take classes in: Health Sciences, Medical Terminology, (including Spanish-English Medical Terminology), Health Care Foundations, Human Anatomy & Physiology, World Health Care Research, Health Science Technology Education Entry-Level Job Certifications (Certified Nursing Assistant, Emergency Medical Technician, Pharmacy Technician, and more).

The Banner/NCMC Health Science Academy will be open for enrollment to students from across Greeley, Evans and nearby communities.

“For any student who is interested in becoming a doctor, nurse, medical technician, or other health care professional, this Academy will give them a leg up on realizing that dream,” says Lang.

The Banner/NCMC Health Science Academy at Greeley Central High School will open in August 2012.

Students who are interested in enrolling in the program and their parents can contact Scott Holcomb, District 6 Career Pathways facilitator at 970-3486279 or mholcomb@greeleyschools. org . They can also visit Greeley Central High School during regular school hours for an application.

Now enjoy RMParent magazine at your leisure or on the go with our new digital flip issues. Our digital monthly issues bring you all the information you expect from RMParent Magazine in an easy-to-navigate and fun format!

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thompson school district news

Thompson robotics teams going to Nationals, Worlds

Four teams from Berthoud High School qualified for world competition at the 2012 VEX Robotics Championship at Thompson Valley High School in March. BHS Teams 1069B, 1069C, 1069D, and 1069D will travel to Anaheim, CA, for the VEX World Championships. A community team, 974, composed of students from Berthoud and Loveland, qualified for Worlds at a previous event. And Conrad Ball Middle School, 4765C, qualified in a previous event for Nationals in Omaha, NE, later this month.

Multi-district integration project kicks off The Colorado Integration Project, with Thompson School District being a key player, kicked off 2012 with its first session at Thompson School District, where educators began work on a Literacy and Math Design Collaborative for grades 6-12. All funding for this project comes from the Colorado Legacy Foundation.

Thompson, Centennial School District, Denver Public Schools, Eagle County School District and the San Juan 32

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BOCES, which includes nine school districts in Southwestern Colorado, comprise the partners. The project design is aimed at improving the number and rate of students who graduate from Colorado high schools and ensuring that they are prepared for college or work.

Following their two-day session, teachers walked away with targeted instructional tools to practice, refine and track that can lead to improvements in delivery of deeper student learning potential, said Lanny Hass, the TSD manager for the project.

Educators, including 60 from Thompson and several from four of the partner districts, began the process of building a systemic learning structure for staff and students. The approach emphasizes a formative assessment system that emphasizes student learning rather than test score results and addresses learners at all levels, as well as educator effectiveness. Hass, who has worked in the district for 23 years, primarily at Thompson Valley High School, is excited about the prospects of instilling change to improve education.

“We want to build proficiency in all of our students, not limited to the assessment of proficiency,” Hass said.

The group has a three-year window to effect change and Hass believes it can be done. A key to this is collaboration, he said. “We have some great professionals out there but do they work collaboratively? We have to be in an environment that allows for constant feedback, one that includes the students and their learning processes.”

At the state level, Thompson is known as a leader in change, new ideas and concepts with a very qualified staff, Hass said. This is likely a major reason why Thompson was selected for the project. He is excited to be part of a shift to enhance the system as a whole. “We want to build a consistent framework that gives teachers autonomy, provides the basic concepts but also advances learners,” Hass said.

He has no doubt that TSD teachers can meet the challenge. It takes many types of teachers to meet the needs of many learners, but their multiple backgrounds and approaches need to head in a focused direction. One of the tools introduced at the two-day session is the Module Creator, an online system that provides a template for structure but allows teachers to maintain their own styles or autonomy, he said.

Teachers already feel overwhelmed with demands on their classroom and planning time with different approaches and ideas, he said. “The selling point here is not about learning another tool – but about having one that embeds all of the necessary tools they have.” He believes both new and master teachers can use the module to develop and build confidence in their teaching skills. “Plus, there is a scalability that is quantifiable and qualitative so it can measure and build effectiveness on a broader scale,” Hass said.

With the web-based creator, Hass said teachers can write a task, build a formative instructional plan and structure

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a lesson plan that provides ownership for the students.

Teachers who attended the sessions will develop a module and implement it within their unit of instruction with students as they address the challenges associated with the “template task,” returning on March 27-28 with student work to be scored when the group meets again. Initially, the group of teachers hailed from language arts, science and social studies. Mathematics teachers are participating in a similar endeavor referred to as the Mathematics Design Collaborative. Hass hopes to broaden the scope. “We want to push the envelope and see how it works with electives like physical education, business and other areas that are equally responsible for student learning,” he said. Ultimately, about 180 of the district’s 500 secondary teachers will participate in sessions. But while he speaks of creating more effective teachers, the bigger goal is about the students. “We have to optimize learning for every student and shift the focus from a teaching model to a learning model, where the emphasis is on the

students’ ability to take the necessary information and empower them to enhance their own understanding in new learning situations,” he said.

To meet the challenges and demands of today’s society will take collaborative practices, Hass said. It will take a concerted effort from all parties including teachers, administrators, parents and community. “Fragmentation doesn’t optimize education for kids,” he said.

The scope of this project is not just about Colorado, he said. “We have to look at the bigger picture – regionally and nationally. We want to see results and optimize the opportunities for students to succeed beyond high school.”

The integration project dovetails into the district’s 2020 Strategic Plan through the Robust Learning, Equity in Access and Responsible Stewardship goals.

Lanny Hass becomes Colorado Integration Project Manager for TSD Hass recently moved from his position as assistant principal to manager of this

grant-funded project. He has been with the district for 23 years and at TVHS for 18 where he served as a math instructor and then assistant principal.

His position with the Colorado Legacy Integration Project is paid for through grant funds.

Visit us at: www.rmparent.com

follow us on facebook.com/RockyMountainParent

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Providing Beautiful Smiles for Healthy Lifestyles!

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lunch box Poudre School District: Elementary student lunches are $2.O5, secondary student lunches are $2.30 and reduced lunches are $0.40. Entrees offered daily: Elementary—a variety of fruits and vegetables, milk and juices; Secondary--hot and cold sandwiches, fruits and vegetables, deli salad and pizza. .

Elementary school 2 Beef & bean burrito; chef salad; pancake & sausage wrap 3 Grilled cheese; chicken patty sandwich; yogurt, cheese & fruit 4 Chicken & broccoli Alfredo; PBJ; chicken nuggets 5 Veggie wrap; BBQ chicken sandwich; cheese pizza 6 Hummus & veggies; lasagna; beef tacos 9 Sloppy Joe; turkey & cheese deli; chicken nuggets 10 Yogurt, cheese & fruit; chili & cinnamon roll; cheeseburger 11 Mac n’cheese; pig in a blanket; PBJ 12 Turkey gravy w/potatoes; chef salad; chicken patty sandwich 13 No school!

16 No school!

17 Vegetable lasagna; cheeseburger; chef salad 18 Chicken rice bowl; chicken patty sandwich; hummus & vegetables 19 Baked chicken; beef & bean burrito; veggie wrap 20 Mac n’cheese; French toast sticks; tuna salad sandwich 23 Yogurt, cheese & fruit; Rib-a-q sandwich; chicken quesadilla 24 Beef & bean burrito; chicken nuggets; PBJ 25 Chef salad; cheeseburger; corndog 26 Veggie wrap; Teriyaki chicken dippers; chicken patty sandwich 27 Turkey & cheese wrap; cheese pizza; hummus & vegetables 30 Chicken Caesar salad; chicken

patty sandwich; turkey pot pie Secondary SCHOOLS 2 Spaghetti; chicken quesadilla; meatball deli 3 Chicken nuggets; beef tacos; riba-q sandwich 4 Lasagna; nachos; cheeseburger 5 Green chili burrito, chicken; hamburger 6 Pancake & sausage wrap; chicken fajita; BBQ chicken sandwich 9 Mac n’cheese; chicken rice bowl, cheeseburger 10 Chili cheese fries; chicken taco; hamburger 11 Pig in a blanket; pasta; cheeseburger 12 Chicken nuggets; grilled ham & cheese; hamburger 13 No school!

16 HS only Mac n’cheese; chicken

rice bowl; hamburger 17 Chicken nuggets; chili burrito; hamburger 18 Vegetable lasagna; pasta; hamburger 19 Chicken; yogurt, cheese & fruit; cheeseburger 20 Chicken; yogurt, cheese & fruit; cheeseburger 23 Nachos; pasta; cheeseburger 24 Teriyaki chicken dippers; beef tacos; hamburger 25 Chicken nuggets; chili w/cinnamon roll; hotdog 26 Philly cheesesteak sandwich; orange chicken; hamburger 27 Chicken fajita; chili burrito; rib-a-q sandwich 30 Mac n’cheese; BBQ chicken sandwich; hamburger

Thompson School District: Elementary lunches are $2.25. Secondary school lunches are $2.50. Reduced lunches are $0.40. Offered daily: PBJs & fruit.

Elementary schools 9 Chicken nuggets; grilled cheese sandwich 10 Chicken Alfredo; baked potato 11 Sloppy Joe; rice & bean burrito 12 Nachos; baked potato 13 Orange chicken; fruit & yogurt plate 16 Mac n’cheese; grilled cheese 17 Pizza stick w/sauce; baked potato 18 Chicken patty sandwich; rice &

bean burrito 19 Quesadilla; baked potato 20 Teriyaki chicken bowl w/veggies; fruit & yogurt plate 23 Pot roast w/potatoes; grilled cheese 24 Cheese pizza; baked potato 25 Burger; rice & bean burrito 26 Mini pancakes & sausage; baked potato 27 French bread boat; fruit & yogurt plate

30 No School!

Secondary SCHOOLS 9 Chicken nuggets; sloppy Joe 10 Chicken Alfredo; chicken sandwich 11 Pork rib sandwich; burger 12 Nachos; lasagna 13 Orange chicken; French bread boat 16 Mac n’cheese; Mexican pizza 17 Pizza stick w/sauce; Cuban wrap 18 Chicken patty sandwich; nachos 19 Quesadilla; chicken sandwich

20 Teriyaki chicken bowl w/veggies; country fried steak fingers 23 Pot roast w/potatoes; pretzel w/ cheese 24 Cheese pizza; chicken fajita wrap 25 Burger; Chicken parmesan sandwich 26 Burrito; meatball sandwich 27 French bread boat; hot ham & cheese sandwich 30 Pancakes w/sausage; BBQ pulled pork

Greeley - Evans District 6: To obtain a complete meal, student gets an entrée and can select 1-3 sides. Elementary lunches are $2.15, and middle school lunches are $2.40, reduced-price lunches are $.40. Offered daily: PBJ.

Elementary schools 2 Chili w/tortilla; turkey & cheese hoagie 3 Taquito pie; chicken salad sandwich 4 Chicken w/brown rice; PBJ 5 BBQ chicken; ham & cheese hoagie 6 Pepperoni pizza; tuna salad sandwich 9-13 Spring break 16 No school 17 Chicken quesadilla; chicken salad

sandwich 18 Baked ziti; PBJ 19 Chicken; ham & cheese hoagie 20 Cheese pizza; tuna salad 23 Roast pork; turkey & cheese hoagie 24 Tacos; chicken salad sandwich 25 Lasagna; PBJ 26 Chicken sandwich; ham & cheese hoagie 27 Pepperoni pizza; tuna sandwich

30 Sloppy Joe; turkey & cheese hoagie Middle schoolS 2 Chili w/tortilla; club wrap 3 Taquito pie; chicken salad sandwich 4 Chicken w/brown rice; PBJ 5 BBQ chicken; ham & cheese hoagie 6 Pepperoni pizza; Italian wrap 9-13 Spring break 16 No school 17 Chicken quesadilla; chicken fajita wrap

18 Baked ziti; PBJ 19 Chicken; Tuscan bagel sandwich 20 Cheese pizza; tuna salad sandwich 23 Roast pork; club wrap 24 Tacos; chicken salad sandwich 25 Lasagna; PBJ 26 Chicken sandwich; ham & cheese hoagie 27 Pepperoni pizza; Italian wrap 30 Sloppy Joe; ham & cheese hoagie

Windsor School District: Price for elementary lunch is $2.25, for middle school students, $2.30. Reduced lunches are $0.40. Salad bar is served daily with entrees. Offered daily: PBJ and yogurt.

Elementary schools 3 French toast, sausage 4 Taco 5 Potato bar 6 Cheese pizza 9 Hamburger 10 Rotini 11 Bean & cheese burrito

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12 Turkey & gravy w/potatoes 13 Pizza dippers 16 Chicken tenders 17 Mac n’cheese 18 Nachos 19 Teriyaki chicken 20 Big daddy pizza 23 Chicken nuggets 24 Ravioli

25 Spaghetti taco 26 Sloppy Joe 27 Cheese or veggie pizza 30 Chicken nuggets Secondary SCHOOLS 3 French toast, sausage 4 Taco 5 Potato bar 6 Chicken sandwich

9 Cheeseburger 10 Rotini 11 Bean & cheese burrito 12 Turkey & gravy w/potatoes 13 Meatball sub 16 Chicken tenders 17 Mac n’cheese 18 Nachos 19 Teriyaki chicken

20 Steak & cheese sandwich 23 Chicken nuggets 24 Ravioli 25 Turkey & ham wrap 26 Sloppy Joe 27 Turkey bacon burger 30 Chicken nuggets

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calendar

APRIL 2012 Ongoing Through June 2 The Sound of Music Carousel Dinner Theatre, 3750 South Mason St., FC. 970-225-2555. www.

MidtownArtsCenter.com Through June 3 Oklahoma! The Musical Candlelight Dinner Playhouse, 4747 Market Place Dr., Johnstown, CO. 970-744-3747 or www.coloradocandlelight.com.

Through April 28 The Ladies Man Presented by OpenStage. A frothy, fastpaced farce in the classic French style.

Lincoln Center, 417 W. Magnolia St., FC. 970-221-6730 or www.lctix.com.

April 3-5 Spring Break Artistic Adventures Children will discover their talents by learning new art techniques and creating their own masterpieces. Loveland Museum/ Gallery, 503 N. Lincoln Ave., LV. 10:30am-2:30pm. 970-962-2562 or www.cityofloveland.org/museum.

April 9-21 Baby Animal Days Celebrate spring with baby animals and their mothers. Plumb Farm Learning Center, 955 39th Ave., GR. 970-3509216 or www.Greeleygov.com.

April 12-14 Rhythm of the Dance The Lincoln Center, 417 W. Magnolia, FC. 970-221-6730 or www.lctix.com.

April 27-29 Sleeping Beauty Presented by Canyon Concert Ballet.

Lincoln Center, 417 W. Magnolia St., FC. 970-472-4156 or www.ccballet.org.

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Sunday, April 1

Script Frenzy Launch Party: Write-In Harmony Library, 4616 S. Shields St., FC. 1pm. 970-221-6740 or www.

PoudreLibraries.org.

Fort Collins Farmers’ Market Foothills Mall, 215 E. Foothills Pkwy., FC. www.fortcollinsfm.com.

Monday, April 2

Read and Seed: Easter Egg Holders The Gardens on Spring Creek, 2145 Centre Ave., FC. Ages 2-4. 970-4162486 or www.fcgov.com/gardens.

Tiny Trekkers Join us for a hike with your toddler.

Devil’s Backbone Open Space, West of Loveland, off Hwy 34, LV. 10-11am.

970-679-4489 or www.larimer.org.

Tuesday, April 3

Wednesday, April 4

Red State Blue State The exciting U.S. facts and trivia game that teaches players how the Electoral College works. Runschmunkel Reading Room, Loveland Library, 300 N. Adams, LV. 2-3pm. http://www.getontheshelf. com/product/4379/Red-State-BlueState-bo.

Bela Fleck & the Flecktones The original line-up. The Lincoln Center, 417 W. Magnolia, FC. 7:30pm.

970-221-6730 or www.lctix.com.

Bright Beginnings for Infants Bring your baby and learn how nurturing interactions will support brain and emotional development. Poudre Valley Health System, 1025 Garfield Ave., FC. 10-11am. 970-495-7528 or www.pvhs.org.

Author Visit: Greg Hobbs Justice Greg Hobbs of the Colorado Supreme Court will present and discuss his brother Will’s young adult novel, River Thunder, and his own book, Living the Four Corners, Colorado Centennial State at the Headwaters. Harmony Library, 4616 S. Shields St., FC. 7pm.

970-221-6740 or www.PoudreLibraries. org or www.Water2012.org.

Author Dorothy Wickenden Author of Nothing Daunted: The Unexpected Education of Two Society Girls in the West. Hilton, 425 W. Prospect Rd., FC. 7pm. 970-221-6740 or www.PoudreLibraries.org.

Great Decisions Cybersecurity: The new frontier. Council Tree Library, 2733 Council Tree Ave., FC. 7pm. 970-221-6740 or www.

PoudreLibraries.org.

Protecting and Enhancing Your ‘Bottom Line’ Finance, fashion and health. High Plains District Office Building, 2650 W. 29th St., GR. 6:30-8pm. 970-392-2222 or www.BannerHealth.com/NCMCSpirit.

Career Expo/ Teen Job Fair Island Grove Exhibition Building, 501 N. 14th Ave., GR. 4-6pm. 970-350-9392.

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Happiest Toddler on the Block Learn ways to boost your child’s good behavior, curb is annoying behavior and immediately stop his unacceptable behavior. Poudre Valley Hospital, Café F, 1024 S. Lemay Ave., FC. 7-8:30pm.

970-495-7528 or www.pvhs.org.

Calder Quartet The Lincoln Center, 417 W. Magnolia, FC. 7:30pm. 970-221-6730 or www. lctix.com.

Friday, April 6

Scrabble @ Your Library Players of all ability and experience levels are welcome. Council Tree Library, 2733 Council Tree Ave., FC. 10am. 970-2216740 or www.PoudreLibraries.org.

Noches en Familia: Family Nights ¡Ven y disfruta un tiempo de cuentos, manualidades, canciones y películas en español! Come and enjoy a time of stories, crafts, puppets, and songs in Spanish. Council Tree Library, 2733 Council Tree Ave., FC. 5pm. 970-2216740 or www.PoudreLibraries.org.

Survival Secrets Walk a mile on the trail and discover the survival techniques of plants, wildlife and early people. Bobcat Ridge Natural Area, FC. 9:30-11:30am. 970-221-6311 or www.fcgov.com/naturalareas.

Drop in Art: Creative Collages Explore art with your favorite tots.

Loveland Museum/ Gallery, 503 N. Lincoln Ave., LV. 10-11am. 970-9622562 or www.cityofloveland.org/museum.

Ready, Set Grow! Eggs and Nature Crafts for ‘Everybunny’ An introduction to gardening and the four seasons. The Gardens on Spring Creek, 2145 Centre Ave., FC. Ages 4-5. 970416-2486 or www.fcgov.com/gardens.

Childbirth (Fast Track Option) Condensed class to help prepare mother and labor coach for birth experience.

Westbridge Medical Suites, 1107 S. Lemay Ave., FC. 5-6:30pm. 970-495-7528 or www.pvhs.org.

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Saturday, April 7

The Winter Farmers Market Features more than 50 vendors, selling produce, eggs, meat, poultry, wine and cider, cheese, bread and baked goods, coffee, tea, locally-made food specialties and crafts. Opera Galleria, 123 N. College Ave., FC. 10am-3pm. www.

BeLocalFirst.org.

Bunny Hop Skate Fun family activity! Greeley Ice Haus, 900 8th Ave., GR. 12-1:30pm. 970-3509402 or www.greeleyicehaus.com.

Bear Necessitites Presentation about local bruins that ranges from their habits to habitats.

Horsetooth Mountain Open Space, W of Fort Collins, off County Rd, 38E, FC. 10am. 970-679-4489 or www.larimer.org.

All Aboard Learn about the Great Western Railroad while incorporating trains and locomotives into artwork. Loveland Museum/ Gallery, 503 N. Lincoln Ave., LV. 10:30am-Noon. Grades 1-6. 970962-2562 or www.cityofloveland.org/ museum.

Boot Camp for New Dads For men, taught by men! North Colorado Medical Center, 1801 16th St., GR. 9am-Noon. 970‑3784044 or www.BannerHealth.com/ NCMCFamilyLifeEdu. Breastfeeding: Off to a Good Start Designed for expectant parents who are considering breastfeeding.

North Colorado Medical Center, 1801 16th St., GR. 9am-Noon. 970‑3784044 or www.BannerHealth.com/ NCMCFamilyLifeEdu.

Monday, April 9

Read and Seed: Sensory Game The Gardens on Spring Creek, 2145 Centre Ave., FC. Ages 2-4. 970-4162486 or www.fcgov.com/gardens.

Girl Talk (9-12yrs) For girls and their mothers to explore the physical and emotional changes of puberty. Poudre Valley Hospital, Indian Paintbrush Room, 1024 S. Lemay Ave., FC. 6:30-8:30pm. 970-495-7528 or www.pvhs.org.

Money Matters: Safe Payment Practices Harmony Library, 4616 S. Shields St., FC. 7pm. 970-221-6740 or www.

PoudreLibraries.org.

Bright Beginnings for One-Year-Olds Explore how thinking and interactions change as your infant becomes a toddler on the go. Loveland Library, 300 N. Adams, LV. 9-10am. 970-495-7528 or www.pvhs.org.

Tuesday, April 10

Kevin Cook: At Home in the Trees Council Tree Library, 2733 Council Tree Ave., FC. Noon. 970-221-6740 or www.

PoudreLibraries.org.

International Night: Inside A Chinese Boarding School An American high school student’s year abroad. Council Tree Library, 2733 Council Tree Ave., FC. 7pm. 970-2216740 or www.PoudreLibraries.org.

Baby Care 101 Prepares expectant parents in the basic care of newborns for the first few months. Medical Center of the Rockies, 2500 Rocky Mountain Ave., LV. 6-9pm.

970-495-7528 or www.pvhs.org.

OB Anesthesis: Hard to Spell, Hard to Understand Learn your options for anesthesia for labor and birth. North Colorado Medical Center, 1801 16th St., GR. 7-8pm.

970‑378-4044 or www.BannerHealth. com/NCMCFamilyLifeEdu.

Wednesday, April 11

Wild World of Art Springtime prints. Loveland Museum/ Gallery, 503 N. Lincoln Ave., LV. 3-4pm. 970-962-2562 or www. cityofloveland.org/museum.

Poetry Appreciation Workshop Harmony Library, 4616 S. Shields St., FC. 6:30pm. 970-221-6740 or www.

PoudreLibraries.org.

Bright Beginnings for One-Year-Olds Explore how thinking and interactions change as your infant becomes a toddler on the go. Poudre Valley Health System, 1025 Garfield Ave., FC. 9-10am. 970495-7528 or www.pvhs.org.

Breastfeeding Basics Topics include the process of breastfeeding and ways to prevent and care for problems. Medical Center of the Rockies, 2500 Rocky Mountain Ave., LV. 6:30-8:30pm. 970-495-7528 or www. pvhs.org.

Colorado Raptors: A Force of Nature Carin Avila from the Rocky Mountain Raptor Program will bring several raptors for people to meet. Council Tree Library, 2733 Council Tree Ave., FC. 6:30pm. 970-221-6740 or www.

PoudreLibraries.org.

Money Matters: Safe Payment Practices City Community Room, 215 N. Mason, FC. Noon. 7pm. 970-221-6740 or www.

PoudreLibraries.org.

Thursday, April 12

Tail Tale Story Time Read books, make crafts and meet animals all in the name of compassion.

Larimer Humane Society Shelter, 6317 Kyle Ave., FC. 10-11am. Ages 3-6. 970226-3647 or www.larimerhumane.org.

Labor Techniques and Comfort Measures Strategies for labor and delivery to include relaxation, breathing, visualization, movement, or massage and use of tools such as birthing balls, aromatherapy, or rebozos. Westbridge Medical Suites, 1107 S. Lemay Ave., FC. 7-9pm. 970-495-7528 or www.pvhs.org.

Flash Reading Mob Join library staff and drop everything for 15 minutes of reading. Old Town Square, FC. Noon. 970-221-6740 or www.

PoudreLibraries.org.

Art Exploration for Teens: Acrylic (Van Gogh Expressionism) Teens can expand their artistic horizons.

Loveland Museum/ Gallery, 503 N. Lincoln Ave., LV. 4-6pm. 970-962-2562 or www.cityofloveland.org/museum.

Friday, April 13

Starry Night: Saturn’s Return Lesson and stargazing. Bobcat Ridge Natural Area, FC. 7:45-10pm. 970-2216311 or www.fcgov.com/naturalareas.

Drop in Art: Paint Exploration Explore art with your favorite tots.

Loveland Museum/ Gallery, 503 N. Lincoln Ave., LV. 10-11am. 970962-2562 or www.cityofloveland.org/ museum.

Ready, Set Grow! Bottle Cap Caterpillars and Finger Print Rainy Day An introduction to gardening and the four seasons. The Gardens on Spring Creek, 2145 Centre Ave., FC. Ages 4-5. 970-416-2486 or www.fcgov.com/ gardens.

Saturday, April 14

Chess @ Your Library Council Tree Library, 2733 Council Tree Ave., FC. 10am. 970-221-6740 or www.

PoudreLibraries.org.

Interesting Reader Society Meeting Young adults meet monthly to talk mainly about teen stuff. Harmony Library, 4616 S. Shields St., FC. 11am. 970-2216740 or www.PoudreLibraries.org.

Teen Poetry Slam Slammin at your library. Harmony Library, 4616 S. Shields St., FC. 1:30pm. 970-221-6740 or www.

PoudreLibraries.org.

Baby Care 101 Prepares expectant parents in the basic care of newborns for the first few months. Poudre Valley Hospital, Indian Paintbrush Room, 1024 S. Lemay Ave., FC. 6-9pm. 970-495-7528 or www. pvhs.org.

Pops Concert A Tribute to John Williams. The Lincoln Center, 417 W. Magnolia, FC. 7:30pm.

970-221-6730 or www.lctix.com.

Really Useful Plans of Horsetooth Horsetooth Mountain Open Space, W of Fort Collins, off County Rd, 38E, FC. 9am. 970-679-4489 or www.larimer.org.

Rare Plant Survey Informational Meeting Natural Areas Department Office, 1745 Hoffman Mill Rd., FC. 9-10am. 970416-2815 or www.fcgov.com.

Infant CPR Important for all those who have an infant in their life. North Colorado Medical Center, 1801 16th St., GR. 1-3:30pm. 970‑378-4044 or www.BannerHealth.com/ NCMCFamilyLifeEdu. Spanish Prepared Childbirth To receive a flyer printed in Spanish, call 970-378-6709. North Colorado Medical Center, 1801 16th St., GR. 9am-1pm.

970‑378-4044 or www.BannerHealth. com/NCMCFamilyLifeEdu.

Sunday, April 15

Script Frenzy Midway word bash and write-in.

Harmony Library, 4616 S. Shields St., FC. 1pm. 970-221-6740 or www.

PoudreLibraries.org.

Intro to Backyard Chickens Ecology and economy of backyard poultry.The Old Feed Store, 3612 W. County Rd. 54G, LaPorte, CO. 12-4pm. 970-224-3247 or www. sustainablelivingassociation.org.

Game Day @ Your Library Council Tree Library, 2733 Council Tree Ave., FC. 2pm. 970-221-6740 or www.

PoudreLibraries.org.

Fort Collins Farmers’ Market Foothills Mall, 215 E. Foothills Pkwy., FC. 970-495-4889 or www. fortcollinsfm.com.

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Monday, April 16

Read and Seed: Clouds The Gardens on Spring Creek, 2145 Centre Ave., FC. Ages 2-4. 970-4162486 or www.fcgov.com/gardens.

Wild World of Art Clay creations. Loveland Museum/ Gallery, 503 N. Lincoln Ave., LV. 3-4pm. 970-962-2562 or www. cityofloveland.org/museum.

Bright Beginnings for Infants Bring your baby and learn how nurturing interactions will support brain and emotional development. McKee Medical Center, 2000 N. Boise Ave., LV. 10-11am.

970-495-7528 or www.pvhs.org.

Bright Beginnings for Infants Bring your baby and learn how nurturing interactions will support brain and emotional development. Poudre Valley Health System, 1025 Garfield Ave., FC. 10-11am. 970-495-7528 or www.pvhs.org.

Tiny Trekkers Join us for a hike with your toddler.

Devil’s Backbone Open Space, West of Loveland, off Hwy 34, LV. 10-11am.

970-679-4489 or www.larimer.org.

Prepared Childbirth Ask questions and make informed decisions about issues surrounding the birth of your baby. North Colorado Medical Center, 1801 16th St., GR. 7-9pm. 970‑3784044 or www.BannerHealth.com/ NCMCFamilyLifeEdu.

Tuesday, April 17

National Youth Service Day Awards Greeley Recreation Center, 651 10th Ave., GR. 970-350-9400.

Bright Beginnings for Infants Bring your baby and learn how nurturing interactions will support brain and emotional development. Medical Center of the Rockies, 2500 Rocky Mountain Ave., LV. 10-11am.

970-495-7528 or www.pvhs.org.

Thursday, April 19

Nutrition Series Autoimmunity: why your body attacks itself. Council Tree Library, 2733 Council Tree Ave., FC. 7pm. 970-221-6740 or www.PoudreLibraries.org.

Author Susan Orlean Author of Rin Tin Tin: The Life and The Legend and The Orchid Thief. Hilton, 425 W. Prospect Rd., FC. 7pm. 970-2216740 or www.PoudreLibraries.org.

HypnoBirthing: The Mongan Method Teaches you to release all prior programming about birth. You may lessen or even eliminate the discomfort of labor and birth and the need for medication. North Colorado Medical Center, 1801 16th St., GR. 6:30-9pm.

970‑378-4044 or www.BannerHealth. com/NCMCFamilyLifeEdu.

Wednesday, April 18

Friday, April 20

Maya Program: La Ruta Maya #2 Maya culture, archaeology and travel in Mexico and Guatemala.

Council Tree Library, 2733 Council Tree Ave., FC. 7pm. 970221-6740 or www.

PoudreLibraries.org.

Drop in Art: Gooey Madness Explore art with your favorite tots.

Loveland Museum/ Gallery, 503 N. Lincoln Ave., LV. 10-11am. 970962-2562 or www. cityofloveland.org/ museum.

Ready, Set Grow! Can-Do Robots and Pinching Pennies An introduction to gardening and the four seasons. The Gardens on Spring Creek, 2145 Centre Ave., FC. Ages 4-5. 970-416-2486 or www.fcgov.com/ gardens.

Childbirth (Fast Track Option) Condensed class to help prepare mother and labor coach for birth experience.

Medical Center of the Rockies, 2500 Rocky Mountain Ave., LV. 5-6:30pm.

970-495-7528 or www.pvhs.org.

Saturday, April 21

Stuart Little The Lincoln Center, 417 W. Magnolia, FC. 2pm & 6pm. 970-221-6730 or www.lctix.com.

That Book Inside You Writer’s Workshop Learn all the steps for writing, publishing, and selling your book.

Northern Colorado Writer’s Studio, 108 East Monroe Dr., FC. 9am-4pm. www. teresafunke.com.

Earth Day Volunteer Project: Poop De-Doo Dog park poop pick-up. Pineridge Natural Area & Spring Canyon Park, 2626 W. Horsetooth Rd., FC. 9am-Noon.

970-290-8874 or www.fcgov.com.

Hey Kids! Spring is Here!

Discover what’s in bloom. Devil’s Backbone Open Space, West of Loveland, off Hwy 34, LV. 9am. 970-679-4489 or www.larimer.org.

Camping Conundrums Introduction to camping skills. Lions’ Open Space, North of Bingham Hill Rd., FC. 9:30am. 970-679-4489 or www. larimer.org.

Sunday, April 22 Happy Earth Day!

Animal Afternoon Join Larimer Animal People Partnership volunteers and their special story-loving critters. Harmony Library, 4616 S. Shields St., FC. 3pm. 970-221-6740 or www.PoudreLibraries.org.

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970.633.0282

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Monday, April 23

Read and Seed: Caterpillars The Gardens on Spring Creek, 2145 Centre Ave., FC. Ages 2-4. 970-4162486 or www.fcgov.com/gardens.

TEDxCSU TEDTalk videos and live speakers combine to spark deep discussion and connection in a small group. The Lincoln Center, 417 W. Magnolia, FC. 2pm.

970-221-6730 or www.lctix.com.

Wednesday, April 25

Drop in Art: April Showers bring May Flowers Explore art with your favorite tots.

Loveland Museum/ Gallery, 503 N. Lincoln Ave., LV. 10-11am. 970-962-2562 or www.cityofloveland.org/museum.

Stargazing Fossil Creek Reservoir Regional Open Space, Carpenter Rd., 1 mile west of I25, FC. 8:30-10:30pm. 970-221-6311 or www.fcgov.com/naturalareas or www. ncastro.org.

Ready, Set Grow! Baby Blue Birds and Panty Hose Polo An introduction to gardening and the four seasons. The Gardens on Spring Creek, 2145 Centre Ave., FC. Ages 4-5. 970416-2486 or www.fcgov.com/gardens.

Fruit Tree Grafting: Workshop This workshop will open up many gardening opportunities. Fort Collins Wholesale Nursery, 2224 N. Shields St., FC. 10am-Noon. 970-224-3247 or www.sustainablelivingassociation.org.

Devil’s Backbone: Millions of Years in the Making Devil’s Backbone Open Space, West of Loveland, off Hwy 34, LV. 10am.

970-679-4489 or www.larimer.org.

Sunday, April 29

Saturday, April 28

Script Frenzy Mad dash to the end and write-in. Harmony Library, 4616 S. Shields St., FC. 1pm.

970-221-6740 or www.PoudreLibraries.org.

Wild World of Art 3D City Scape. Loveland Museum/ Gallery, 503 N. Lincoln Ave., LV. 3-4pm. 970-962-2562 or www. cityofloveland.org/museum.

We’re having a Baby: A Class for Siblings Kids will learn what a new baby looks like, how to become a “big helper,” and how to make friends with the new baby.

North Colorado Medical Center, 1801 16th St., GR. 9:30-10:30am. 970‑3784044 or www.BannerHealth.com/ NCMCFamilyLifeEdu. Community Celebration of Poetry Harmony Library, 4616 S. Shields St., FC. 7pm. 970-221-6740 or www.

PoudreLibraries.org.

Bright Beginnings for Two-Year-Olds Learn how to promote early literacy, brain development, and a healthy and safe environment for the active twos.

Poudre Valley Health System, 1025 Garfield Ave., FC. 10-11am. 970-495-7528 or www.pvhs.org.

Thursday, April 26

International Night: Inside A Chinese Boarding School An American high school student’s year abroad. Harmony Library, 4616 S. Shields St., FC. 7pm. 970-221-6740 or www.PoudreLibraries.org.

Friday, April 27

History Comes Alive: Nikola Tesla Learn about this brilliant scientist. Harmony Library, 4616 S. Shields St., FC. 7pm. 970-221-6740 or www.Poudre Libraries.org.

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Fold Me a Poem Learn how to write fun and silly types of poems. Council Tree Library, 2733 Council Tree Ave., FC. 10am. 970-221-6740 or www.PoudreLibraries.org.

Wildflower Treasure Hunt Devil’s Backbone Open Space, West of Loveland, off Hwy 34, LV. 9am.

970-679-4489 or www.larimer.org.

Hummers The birds, not the cars. Horsetooth Mountain Open Space, W of Fort Collins, off County Rd, 38E, FC. 10am.

970-679-4489 or www.larimer.org.

Kites in the Park Festival Spring Creek Canyon Park, 2626 W. Horsetooth Rd., FC. 10am.

970-221-6740 or www.PoudreLibraries.org.

Afternoon Tea with a Diva A delicious opera. The Lincoln Center, 417 W. Magnolia, FC. 2pm.

970-221-6730 or www.lctix.com.

Monday, April 30

Read and Seed: Clay Snakes The Gardens on Spring Creek, 2145 Centre Ave., FC. Ages 2-4. 970-4162486 or www.fcgov.com/gardens.

Canning, Jams & Jellies: Workshop Learn the process. Larimer County Extension, 1525 Blue Spruce Dr., FC. 68:30pm. 970-224-3247 or www. sustainablelivingassociation.org.

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time out

The road less traveled A five-year-old strikes out on a path his parents didn’t take A n n S c h i m ke

M

y son Connor was only 3 when he started asking when he could get a real guitar.

He’d seen a beautiful indigo blue one at the music store in downtown Loveland and it captured his imagination in a way my husband and I never expected.

We owned no toy guitars and neither of us played guitar or any other instrument. What inspired him? Was it his guitar-playing preschool teacher?

A neighbor he’d seen strumming at a block party? We weren’t sure. We decided Connor was too young to take care of a $50 guitar, but he didn’t stop asking for it.

Fast-forward two years. It’s December 2011 and, on a whim, Mike tells Connor he’ll give him $50 for a guitar if he can memorize “The Road Not Taken”

by Robert Frost. The deal energized Connor, and he memorized the first few lines the same day. We were impressed but figured he’d lose interest after a couple days.

An abstract poem with words like “trodden” and “hence”? No, not likely. It didn’t play to the strengths of a little boy whose first love was construction vehicles.

But every night, Mike and Connor would make it a little farther through the 20-line poem. In just over a week, Connor had memorized the whole thing. To make sure it wasn’t a fluke, we had him recite the poem for my parents at their house. Then he did it on a video phone call with Mike’s parents, who live in Michigan. He did it standing on our coffee table, lounging on the living room floor and at the dinner table.

On New Year’s Day, Connor officially earned his $50, and Mike took him to buy the half-size guitar that he’d been eyeing for almost as long as he could remember. He was thrilled with his new instrument even though 46

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it was awkward for him to hold and he could only strum by raking his whole hand over the strings.

We quickly signed him up for lessons, starting with a four-week trial period. Again, I doubted his persistence. I couldn’t help thinking the novelty would wear off in a week or two and he’d ask to quit. And frankly, I was fully prepared to let him. The whole thing was foreign to me. I didn’t start playing an instrument until fourth grade when the whole class was offered in-school lessons. Although I picked up the trumpet and played for the next six years, I was never an inspired musician. I didn’t expect more of Connor. Still, the fourweek trial passed, and he wanted to stick with it.

Saturday after Saturday, I marveled at Connor’s commitment as he walked out the door to go to his lesson. He didn’t complain. He didn’t procrastinate. He trotted out like he wanted to go. I finally figured out why it surprised me so much. Somewhere deep down, I assumed that Connor would be a like me. I couldn’t imagine wanting a guitar. I couldn’t imagine memorizing a long poem so I could buy a guitar. I couldn’t imagine weekly lessons to learn how to play the guitar.

I didn’t say it out loud, but none of it made any sense to me. Sure,

theoretically I knew Connor would develop his own interests as he got older, but I assumed they’d echo Mike’s and mine. I figured they’d feel familiar.

Over the months since the poem challenge and the new guitar, I’ve realized how confusing it can be to watch

your children grow into their own people and make their own way in the world. At the same time, it’s exciting to witness your offspring do things you didn’t. Given my own not-verymusical past, I’m downright impressed that my 5-year-old had the drive to earn his guitar and the determination to take months of lessons. I have no idea what the future holds for Connor musically speaking or otherwise, but whatever happens, I hope he continues to take the road less traveled.

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A general dentistry practice that’s all about kids and young adults, Ages 0-20!

Dreaming of Ponies?

Gargot Farms Riding Academy is now accepting students of all ages and abilities 2012 Camp Dates Ages 6-10: June 4 - 8, June 11-15 Ages 11-14: June 25-29 • Individual instruction and small group activities • After school and Saturday lessons available • Safe, trained horses and ponies • Indoor and outdoor arenas • Equine-assisted psychotherapy with Dr. Margot Nacy (for children and teens) • NEW! Ponies for Preschoolers! with instructor, Dana Lessie

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