RMParent April 2015 by RM Publishing

APRIL 2015 • RMPARENT.COM

Hiking

COYOTE RIDGE ........................................

Earth Day

YOUNG

ENTREPRENEURS

CELEBRATIONS ........................................

Manners MATTER

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THE TRUTH

ABOUT

PRESSURE

COOKER LIFE

LIES

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SPECIAL SECTION

Youth

Program &Activity

Guide

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APRIL 2015

Departments PERSPECTIVE . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6

Open for business—Hooray for the young entrepreneurs!

AS WE GROW . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 The truth about lying—distinguishing between “white” lies and malicious ones

FAMILY ACTIVITIES . . . . . . . 10 Howling good fun—explore Coyote Ridge Natural Area’s Nature Loop with your family

GIVE ME A BREAK . . . . . . . . 12 Blow off the steam—don’t let the pressure build to explosive levels

COMMUNITY NEWS . . . . . . . 14 NoCo cities keep on moving ahead—encourage imagination, promote safety, expand horizons, promote health

HEALTHY LIVING . . . . . . . 1 6

Celebrating Earth Day—transform the day into a yearlong lifestyle for your family

CALENDAR . . . . . . . . . . . . 32

Events and activities for parents, kids and families

TIME OUT . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 0

Allowing for allowance—it’s not always a straightforward as it might seems

Special Sections PROGRAM & ACTIVITY GUIDE

APRIL 2015 • RMPARENT.COM

Read about giving your School children educational experiences in the wild outdoors, and allowing them to explore without Program Directory any lesson. And whether your children are off to camp or playing in the backyard, check out these safety tips. Plus, peruse our extensive listing of camps and programs, including a story about special camps for kids with all abilities. CALENDARS PAGE 50

GET OUTSIDE— SAFELY PAGE 8

LIST OF

ADVERTISERS

PAGE 52

CAMPS FOR ALL

ABILITIES PAGE 12

KIDS IN

SPACES PAGE 16

BY CATEGORY PAGE 20 ALPHABETICAL PAGE 22

Features MANNERS MATTER 18 While manners may seem insignificant

compared to other issues, they are surprisingly tied to success in life. They often make the difference between being satisfied in a career as an adult, making friends and learning the give-and-take that makes relationships work. Here’s how you can help instill these traits in your children.

School District News Thompson School District. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23 Mountain View HS announces art winners, TSD elementary students at All-State Choir, students perform at Denver’s Children’s Hospital, Mountain View teacher recognized by DECA, TSD schools dominate state wrestling tourney, finalists named for National Merit Scholarships

Poudre School District. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26 PSD calendar of events, preliminary long-range facilities plan, therapy dogs help students grow academically and personally

Greeley-Evans District 6. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28 Board of education appoints new superintendent, council names classified employee of the year,

Lunchbox . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30 School menus for Poudre, Thompson, Greeley-Evans and Windsor

20 GETTING DOWN TO BUSINESS

By offering advice and ultimately competitions, local organizations are encouraging young entrepreneurs to learn how to start a business and serve customers. Youths 18 and younger can apply to participate in programs that have seen others start companies, make thousands of dollars, apply for patents, donate to charity, change local legislation and more. ABOUT THE COVER: Malia, 10, loves to dance competitively and have sleepovers with her friends. Photo by Cheri Schonfeld, schonfeldphotography.com.

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perspective Open for business

Hooray for the young entrepreneurs!

ine-year-old Ruby and her friend knocked on our door last summer. They said they were starting a dog walking business, so I asked how much they charged. They looked at each other and Ruby’s friend said that they charged one dollar for the first block and 50 cents for each additional block. We have two little dogs—one fast and one very slow—so I figured that was reasonable enough. They couldn’t walk them right then, though, because they had to finish going door to door handing out their cards. So a little while later they came by and we leashed up Frida and Betty and sent them off with the new dog-walkers. They were gone quite a while. They took them home and gave them some water, too. I asked Ruby later if she wanted to walk the little dogs again... turns out it was a one-day business. I can’t pass up a lemonade stand either if I have any cash with me at all. And those young, save-the-worlders going door to door almost always get something out of me. I just can’t resist reinforcing that thing that makes them gather up their pluck and knock on people’s doors or set up a stand. I started my first business at 14 years old with a neighbor kid, Pat. We washed windows. Word got out and the business took off. No one likes to wash windows and we were cheap, but we thought we were doing great. We made more than minimum wage and worked when we wanted. And pretty much that was the start of an entrepreneurial career. It’s funny how a little exposure to inventing a job for yourself makes you realize that it can be done. I had some mentors along the way who pushed me toward starting small businesses. Rocky Mountain Publishing has been the mainstay for Kristin and me for the past 19 years, though the start-up years (decade) were pretty dang tough. Before that is was a couple of other publishing businesses and a ski and mountain wear company with a partner in Bolivia. Anyway, I guess the point is that I was pretty excited when a mom called me and told me about the great experience her daughter had had with a group that helped mentor and encourage young entrepreneurs. It was a slam-dunk that we were going to do that story! Writer Kim Sharpe, who just started her own company last year, dove in on the story. Be sure to check it out on page 18. It’s pretty inspirational. And don’t miss the many other great stories in this issue. Another one that really grabbed me was the story about kids in the wild that Hillary Mizia wrote for the Program & Activity guide. Yet another inspirational story about giving kids some direction but also just letting them go explore the world. I see these as compatible themes. Facing challenges directly in the wilderness and fostering your spirit of discovery and wonder form an active metaphor for being creative and bold with your life. Thanks for reading, Scott 6

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APRIL 2015 • Volume 19, Issue 11 PUBLISHER Scott Titterington, (970)221-9210 scott.rmpublishing@gmail.com EDITOR Kristin Titterington, (970)221-9210 kristin.rmpublishing@gmail.com CALENDAR EDITOR Kim Sharpe calendar@rockymountainpub.com CREATIVE DIRECTOR Emily Zaynard emily.rmpublishing@gmail.com ADVERTISING SALES DIRECTOR Greg Hoffman, (970)689-6832 greg.rmpublishing@gmail.com DISTRIBUTION Wendee Brungardt Sharon Klahn, Kyle Moyer COVER PHOTO Cheri Shonfeld, schonfeldphotography.com CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Lea Hanson, Kris Kodrich, Kim Lipker, Lynn Nichols, Kim Sharpe ROCKY MOUNTAIN PUBLISHING 825 Laporte Avenue, 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. ©2015 Rocky Mountain Publishing, Inc. All rights reserved. Reproduction without express written permission is prohibited.

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as we grow

The truth about lying

Distinguishing between “white” lies and malicious ones LY NN U. NICHOLS

s it ever okay to lie? Of course lying to cover up something or make yourself look better is never good, but what about white lies that benefit others? Have you ever told a friend she looked fantastic in her new outfit when you really didn’t believe it? Or swooned over a gift that was totally wrong for you? You are not alone. White lies have been widely studied and are dubbed “pro-social”— lies told to benefit or help others. Most of us tell them. As kids grow up, they come to understand the subtleties of when to tell a white lie, and when to not. Lying in general is right up there on the bad behavior list—along with stealing and swearing—and rightly so. Honesty is the basis of all healthy relationships. People who lie are not trusted and therefore cannot sustain intimate relationships with others. It’s vital that kids learn to be truthful. Yet sometimes, it’s not as simple as a truth or lie. We’ve all had those moments when our preschoolers were brutally honest. I remember when my 3-yearold asked his aunt, “Why are you so fat?” Ouch. That’s when we can’t wait for our kids to learn self-control and the ability to discern when to blurt out their truth, hold it inside, or when to even massage it a little. The trick is helping younger kids distinguish between a white lie and a malicious or self-serving one. How do we teach kids the gray area of when to be honest and when to tell a white lie? Mostly, growing up does that for us. According to studies, children as young as first grade understand the distinctions between types of lies—and soon after, most kids have told their first white lie. WHY KIDS LIE Kids generally lie for three reasons: to avoid punishment, to ward off embarrassment 8

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and to protect someone. I can think of another one—to look good in the eyes of their peers. Occasionally kids lie to hurt someone, but that’s fairly rare. ADDRESSING HURTFUL AND SELF-SERVING LIES Sometimes, kids try out lying and go through a stage of telling a series of self-serving lies. Parents need to address this quickly so it doesn’t become a habit. For example, let’s imagine that your missing change is found in your son’s drawer but he emphatically denies taking it. What to do? Ask him to pause and answer again. Say, “Stop for a minute. Now, tell me how it really happened, just the parts you are sure of.” If your child still lies and you are sure it’s a lie, confront him with the truth and hand out a consequence—one that relates to the lie, if possible. While some parents hesitate to do this in fear of hurting their child, it is a natural consequence to lying. When we are dishonest, results are unpleasant and people lose trust in us for a while. If kids continually get negative results from lying they will eventually stop.

One reason kids might fall into a pattern of repetitive lying is because they feel it is the easiest way to deal with the demands of parents, teachers and friends, according to the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. If you have a “good” kid who always does the right thing and is a high-achiever, this might be the case. Lying might also release the stress of always being good, or serve the desire to please others. If so, it’s time to take an honest look at your expectations of your child or at your child’s own sense of perfectionism. If the lying pattern doesn’t cease, it could be time for professional help. Lastly, discuss the importance of honesty and trust with your kids from a young age; Read books about lies and honesty. Tell personal stories of your childhood lies or others who lied and got bad results. If a child witnesses you telling a white lie, discuss it. Explain that you felt it was better than the alternative—hurting someone’s feelings—and talk about the difference between white lies and lying to serve yourself or hurt others.

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family activities

Howling good fun

Explore Coyote Ridge Natural Area’s Nature Loop with your family KIM LIPKER

oyote Ridge Natural Area is where the prairies meet the mountains. The area spans almost 1,000 acres and is still growing. The transition from ecosystems is gradual, but evident as you hike and provides children the opportunity to view habitats of a wide range of plants and animals. There is no shade on or off the trail, so go now, early summer or in the fall. To begin the 1-mile hike to the small nature loop, leave the parking area and pass the kiosk that marks the beginning of the trail. Head up the small service road that serves as a nice path. Travel toward the small ridge that you gradually ascend and cross–then descend toward the Natural Area’s cabin. Pass first through the landmark log arch that stands as a talisman to this Natural Area. At its base is an amazing tactile sign featuring a rattlesnake that appears to be slithering through the interpretive sign! The cabin deck serves as a group gathering place, shelter, and resting area. For an in-depth look at Coyote Ridge, take time to experience the views and read the signs at the cabin. On the eastern side of the cabin is the .25-mile interpretive nature trail. Here is also a good place to see a bustling prairie dog town in action. After a round-about through the interactive interpretive signs on the nature trail – my favorite being the samples of bird calls–head back the way that you came. For those with longer or stronger legs, continue up the hogback 1 more mile to the highest point on Coyote Ridge–a lung-busting 600-foot increase in elevation. There are viewing tubes at the top with views in all directions. From this point, the trail continues into Larimer County’s Rim Rock Open Space and joins the Blue Sky Trail. Coyote Ridge Natural Area is a

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really good place to open your ears and listen. While you are hiking, tune in and tune out different sounds as you travel toward the nature trail. Learn to recognize the different vocalizations of animals such as the prairie dogs and the different calls of area birds. Hike the trail at different times of the day and different times of the year. Tuning up your listening sense will give you a deeper appreciation for this trail. FACTS4KIDS Did you know that prairie dogs are members of the squirrel family? Prairie dogs are an important prey item for many predators, including coyotes, badgers, bobcats, snakes and several species of raptors. They are an important part of a grassland habitat like Coyote Ridge because their burrowing system and vegetation clipping diversifies the grassland, providing habitat for a variety of species. Less than 100 years ago, more than 5 billion of these animals lived in western North America. In the early 1970 several species of prairie dogs were endangered.

The scoop

To the trailhead: From the Taft Hill Road and Harmony Road intersection, go south on Taft Hill Road for 3.5 miles to the trailhead. The trailhead is on the right and is well posted. Distance: 2.25 miles out-and-back Difficulty: Easy Elevation gain: Mostly flat at 110 feet Accessibility: All year, all ages, strollers, partially accessible to wheelchairs; no dogs Highlights: Short-grass prairie in the foothills; fossils, wildlife-viewing and listening, small nature trail, spectacular tactile signs.

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give me a break

Blow off the steam

Don’t let the pressure build to explosive levels KIM SHARPE

“G

et back! Stay out of the kitchen!” These strong warnings from my mother on canning days during my childhood instilled in me a fear of this particular food preservation process and pressure cookers. I vividly remember my mother standing in front of our gas stove with an apron tied around her waist and an Aunt Jemima-style bandana on her head. In front of her, with blue flames licking up its sides, was a large, thick-walled, metal kettle with a lid that was held on by industrial-looking knobs and a gauge on top. From its steaming depths, Mom would lower and lift a rack of glass jars filled with corn and green beans and other assorted garden produce. As the kitchen heat rose due to Indian summer temperatures combined with the heat inherent in the canning process, so did my anxiety as I contemplated what would become of my mother if that contraption on the stove decided to blow up like a bomb. Little did I know then how similar the canning process can be to parenting. From crying babies you can’t console to argumentative teenagers who

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like to push your buttons, the pressures of parenting can quickly build up. While pressure can propel us into appropriate action, too much pressure can trigger inappropriate reactions. If parents or caregivers don’t find healthy ways to alleviate pressure, it can build to dangerous levels and they can blow their lids—just like I imagined the pressure cooker would do if not tended to with great care and caution. Parents need to remember we aren’t “bad” if we become frustrated when our baby continues to cry after we’ve done all we can to calm him down. Or when our pre-teen hurls insults, storms out of the room and slams doors when denied a particular request. It’s okay to ask for help from friends, relatives and neighbors so you can escape the tensions for a bit. And the best time for a bit of “me” time is before you think you need it,

of course. Throughout my parenting career, I’ve used physical activity to blow off steam. When I only had one or two sons, I’d strap on our bike helmets, safely fasten the boys into a Burley® trailer and off we’d roll. If they protested being held captive in their two-wheeled chariot, it only motivated me to pedal faster. Once my third son came along, I began running more… in circles…around our small block… in the very early morning hours (I’m talking 4am)…stopping and listening at the front door each time I passed the house for any sign that the tribe was waking up. To this day, biking and running are ways I find relief from life’s pressures. So whether you rely on others for help or help yourself by carving time out of each day just for you (which is not a selfish thing to do, by the way), you need and deserve a break. Take it!

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community news

NoCo cities keep on moving ahead

Encourage imagination, promote safety, expand horizons and promote health KIM SHARPE

orthern Colorado is known for many things, like its beauty, outdoor recreational opportunities and creative culture. Residents who lend credence to the latter reputation are being sought out to add to northern Colorado’s visual appeal. And true to form, safety and expanding recreational opportunities continue to make headlines. Read on for details. CITY OF GREELEY IS LOOKING FOR TREE ARTISTS The City of Greeley’s One Percent for Art Program is requesting proposals from artists to create artwork for the ongoing Uptown Tree project along 8th Ave. between 10th St. and 16th St. The Uptown Tree project is a means to aesthetically enhance that corridor with original ‘Art Trees’ in recognition of Greeley as a designated Tree City USA. Interpretive “sculptural trees” will be purchased from artists and integrated into the corridor as permanent works of art. The first “planting” of trees along the corridor in 2014 included 10 trees that have added interest, form, color and fun. Over the next four years, this program will add 20 more original sculptural art trees. Five additional art trees will be added in the fall of 2015. The intent of the program is to purchase tree sculptures that are diverse. Maximum creativity in design and selection of materials is encouraged. All forms of media that are appropriate and complementary to the project, theme and site, that can withstand Colorado’s weather extremes, require little or no maintenance and do not invite vandalism, will be considered. A budget of up to $10,000 to include all applicable expenses, including but not limited to design fees, execution, transportation and installation of the

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artwork selected is currently available for each approved art tree sculpture. Designs proposed to exceed the budget will not be considered. Proposals should be submitted on or before April 6 electronically before midnight or to the Public Art office before 5pm. Mail or deliver to: Kim Snyder, City of Greeley, 651 10th Ave. Greeley, CO 80631. Send email entries time stamped by the deadline to kim. snyder@greeleygov.com. The top five artists selected will be notified by April 22. To download a complete copy of the request for proposal, visit www. greeleygov.com/activities/public-art.

nity members to locate as many crossing guards as possible throughout TSD, including in Berthoud, Fort Collins and Loveland. Crossing guards are at their posts before and after school. By April 13, residents and students will be able to download a map and mark a star at each location where they sighted a crossing guard. Download maps at www.cityoflove land.org/SRTS or www.thompsonschools. org. By 4:30pm on April 24, email maps to tsdcgr@thompsonschools.org or hand deliver to the TSD Administration building, 800 S. Taft Ave., Loveland. Contest officials will tally results. Prizes will be awarded to five randomly

Crossing Guard Emilee Mai helps keep kids safe

CITY AND SCHOOL DISTRICT COLLABORATE ON CROSSING GUARD CONTEST To help raise awareness for pedestrian safety and how hard Loveland’s crossing guards work to remind motorists to watch out for students as they go back and forth to school this spring, the City of Loveland and Thompson School District (TSD) will be co-hosting the “Guarding Our Future” contest April 13-24. The goal is for families and commu-

selected participants, one randomly selected crossing guard winner and four crossing guard runners up. On May 1, Loveland Mayor Gutierrez and Thompson School District Superintendent Dr. Scheer will award prizes to the winning guards. Prizes include Rialto Theater tickets, Metrolux 14 theater tickets, Chipotle gift cards, dinner for two at a downtown restaurant, and sweatshirts and t-shirts.

Throughout the contest period, crossing guards will be awarded small prizes, like Life Savers Gummies for being flexible and true “Life Savers.” This contest was initiated by Truscott Elementary School’s Librarian, Resa Mai. According to Resa, “Our crossing guards are not just guarding our crosswalks, they are guarding our future. We want to encourage students and families to walk or ride their bikes to school, and when they realize how many crossing guards we have on duty before and after school, they will see how important student safety is for all of us.” For more information about the contest, call Resa Mai at 613-6921 or Shelley Aschenbrenner at 970-962-2558. POUDRE RIVER TRAIL CLOSER TO COMPLETION The Poudre River Trail is one step closer to completion with the construction of a 3/4-mile segment between Timnath’s Gateway Park and Stonefly Drive, east Interstate 25. “Every trail segment counts, no matter how small,” says Jeffrey Boring, Larimer County resource specialist and regional trail coordinator. “The vision is an intact 40-plus-mile trail from Greeley to Fort Collins, and small segments like this are necessary to finish the trail.” The Gateway Park to Stonefly Drive segment will cross through both unincorporated Larimer County and the Town of Timnath. The most recognizable section of this trail is the Swetsville Zoo. The Poudre River Trail will border the northern side of this regional landmark and provide great visual access to the colorful sculptures that define the zoo. The trail will cross the Poudre River on the Harmony Road Bridge and head east into developing Timnath. A large multi-use development is planned east of County Road 5 and Timnath was able to work with the developer to align the trail through the development. “The Poudre River Trail is a regional draw and gets a lot of use; we expect the trail to be good for business and a great amenity to the development,” says Matt Blakely, Timnath town planner. Trail construction will start in early March and is expected to be complete

The Poudre River Trail alignment east of the Poudre River near Timnath.

in May. Temporary lane closures, near Harmony Road and the Poudre River, east of I-25, may be necessary to install the trail. The project was awarded to NORAA Concrete Construction Company for $724,994. Great Outdoors Colorado will pay $355,643 and the remaining costs will be paid by the Town of Timnath and Larimer County. To learn more about Larimer County’s parks and open spaces, visit www.larimer.org/naturalresources. EPMC BRINGS CU WELLNESS ASSESSMENT AND STATE OF SLIM TO ESTES PARK The Estes Park Medical Center (EPMC) formalized an agreement with the University of Colorado on March 9, 2015, to offer CU’s proprietary Wellness Assessment and State of Slim weight loss program in Estes Park. These two elements are key components to EPMC’s offerings at their Wellness Center to be built in 2016. Prior to the completion of the new facility, these programming and assessment modalities will be available to local residents. “Within the next month, training and the credentialing of our care providers will begin so that we can start using these tools at EPMC for the benefit of local residents and visitors to Estes Park,” says Frank D. Dumont, MD, FACP, internal medicine physician at the Estes Park Medical Center. “We will then incorporate them into the full spectrum of offerings at our Wellness Center.”

These tools support and complement the whole-person and lifestyle approach envisioned for the Estes Park Wellness Center, where guests will enjoy a personalized program based on their health goals, cuttingedge medical assessments and techniques proven effective through scientific research. When completed, the Wellness Center will offer four, seven and 14-day health and lifestyle transformation retreats. State of Slim is a 16-week program designed by James O. Hill, PhD, and Holly Wyatt, MD, from the Anschutz Health and Wellness Center at the University of Colorado. It rebuilds a sluggish metabolism into a “mile-high metabolism” for weight loss and long-term weight control. Years of research on living a lean lifestyle uncovered the key elements that make this program effective—finding motivation, expecting success, fueling up on real food, enjoying physical activity, creating a supportive environment, and making it all fun. The result for participants is a vibrant, healthy lifestyle and a flexible metabolism that accommodates occasional indulgences, making deprivation a thing of the past. “We are pleased to be partnering with the University of Colorado in this manner and see these two powerful tools as instrumental in our wellness programs serving both local residents and destination wellness travelers,” says Brian Herwig, Estes Park Medical Center CEO. RMPARENT

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healthy living

Celebrating Earth Day

Transform the day into a yearlong lifestyle for your family LEA HANSON

his Earth Day, Wednesday, April 22 teach your kids about the earth and how to create a sustainable world. While Earth Day may be just one day of celebrating together as a community, being earth and environmentally conscious is a lifestyle and one we ought to be practicing all year long. First and foremost, kids learn through example. They need to see how protecting and preserving the Earth is important to us as the adults in their lives, not just by our words, but by our actions. The following are some easy ways we can teach kids the significance of Earth Day and saving our planet through our own actions: • Not littering and picking up litter when • • • • • • • • •

we see others do it Recycling materials in our homes Turning out lights when not in use Not wasting water Emphasizing the importance of walking and/or bike riding to reduce fuel emissions Program the thermostat to be more energy efficient Reusing and re-purposing rather than using disposable items Teach kids how to grow plants and herbs Build a birdhouse in your backyard When shopping at the grocery store, use recyclable bags.

Encourage your kids to follow your examples. Talk about why these Earth-saving practices are important. Kids will follow in your footsteps once they understand the value in what they’re doing.

INTRODUCING EARTH DAY A great way to introduce your children to the outdoors is to take them on walks or hikes and let them explore nature. When you go out for a walk, let the children lead the way, pick up items such as flowers, sticks or rocks and talk about them. Stop and listen to the wind blow, and show them that the simple things are important. When you’re on a hike, take the time to feel the 16

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texture of moss and look at the bugs that you encounter. Teaching your kids to take the time to experience nature and respect the environment is a great first step. Reading books is another great way to introduce the concept of Earth Day and environmentalism in general. Some great books include “Earth Day: An Alphabet Book” (By Gary Kowalski), “Earth Day Birthday” (By Maureen Wright), “Our Big Home: An Earth Poem” (By Linda Glaser), “Michael Recycle” (By Ellie Bethel), “The Earth Book” (By Todd Parr), “The Happiness Tree” (By Andrea Alban Gosline), “The Lorax” (By Dr. Seuss), “10 Things I Can Do to Help My World” (By Melanie Walsh), “All the World” (By Liz Garton Scanlon), and “All Around Me I See” (By Laya Steinberg and Cris Arbo). NORTHERN COLORADO EARTH DAY EVENTS Earth Day Fort Collins Civic Center Park Saturday, April 18, 11am-5pm

This event is a combination of activities and events for the entire family, featuring informational booths and displays, arts and crafts, live music, speakers, local food and a beer garden. Admission is free and attendees are asked to bring nonperishable food items for the Food Bank.

Earth Week at the University of Northern Colorado April 20-24

Check the schedule of events online at www.unco.edu/hsl/earthday City of Loveland Earth Day City of Loveland Foote Lagoon Saturday, April 25, 10am-3pm

Last year’s inaugural event hosted over 35 booths including educational displays, vendors, test drives of electric vehicles, live music, good food, and much more. This event is free. In addition to local Earth Day celebrations, there are many opportunities for families to participate in all year long. Take advantage of the many family volunteer opportunities northern Colorado offers that stress the importance of giving back to the community and our planet. Family volunteer projects create valuable bonding time and, at the same time, teach kids about environmental concerns. By implementing these suggestions, you are teaching your kids about energy conservation, recycling, increasing plant growth, respect for nature, saving water, keeping the environment clean; planting trees and flowers to increase oxygen; reducing air pollution; and love and respect for all animals who inhabit the earth.

LOSE A WATT And help your City DID YOU KNOW Fort Collins is one of 50 communities competing to win $5 million from Georgetown University for energy efficiency programs? The entire community must DOUBLE energy savings (electrical and natural gas) at the residential, municipal and K-12 levels over the next two years. The Georgetown University Energy Prize competition will help Georgetown identify, study, and advance best practices, creating tools for cities and counties to drastically improve their energy efficiency. Finalists will be announced in 2017. The competition does not include businesses. Find easy ways to turn down your energy consumption and stay up-to-date on the City’s participation in the competition at www.loseawatt.com. Competing cities come from 27 states. They are diverse socioeconomically and de-

WIN $5 MILLION!

mographically, ranging from 5,000 to 250,000 people. In Colorado, Aspen, Brighton and Fort Collins have been named as semi-finalists. Fort Collins has been recognized nationally as one of the first communities to

TO WIN THE COMPETITION, COMMUNITIES MUST: • Demonstrate a reduction in energy consumption that is sustainable over two years, illustrating significant improvements in adoption rates. • Demonstrate that their actions are replicable in other communities across the country.

organize the triple bottom line – the departments of Social Sustainability, Environmental Services and Economic Health - under one service area, known as Sustainability Services. The City also benefits from having its own municipal utility. Fort Collins Utilities is a leader in energy efficiency with savings results among the highest in the county and a strong partnership with Platte River Power Authority for efficiency and conservation. The City Council on March 3, 2015, agreed with the direction of the Climate Action Plan Framework, which sets more aggressive goals to reduce the community’s greenhouse gas emissions. Council directed staff to develop an implementation plan to get the community to 20 percent below baseline levels by 2020 and 80 percent below baseline by 2030, which would put Fort Collins on a path to be carbon neutral by 2050.

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Manners matter

Politeness and patience are surprisingly tied to success in life

Lynn U. Nichols

earning to say please, thank you and wait his turn in preschool just may help your son land his dream job after college. While manners may seem insignificant compared to other issues like smarts, safety and self-esteem, they are surprisingly tied to success in life. They’re more than mere icing— they’re the substance—often making the difference between being satisfied in a career as an adult, making friends and learning the give and take that makes relationships work. Ultimately, this adds up to happiness, exactly what you want most for your child. Here’s why it makes a difference, and how you can help instill these valuable traits in your children. THE CHANGING LANDSCAPE OF MANNERS In the past, kids were often expected to be seen and not heard. They had to respect their elders, not talk out of turn, and always say please and thank you. It was a parent-centric world. In the last few decades parenting styles shifted, and the focus was put more on kids. There are many reasons for this shift. With it, manners have fallen somewhat to the wayside.

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“It’s a phenomenon across the world that families are getting smaller. Having just one or two kids means parents can focus more on each child and be more in tune with their needs and wants,” says Dr. Usha Udupa, Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist with UCHealth’s Mountain Crest Behavioral Health Center in Fort Collins. She also points out that families are more nuclear and rely less on extended family members for help. That might mean both parents are working to make ends meet, and they have less quantity time for the kids, therefore, they bank on quality time and possibly feel more of a desire to give in and satisfy. “Kids learn less give and take when there are just one or two kids in a family. In a large family, taking turns and sharing comes easier because it’s more necessary,” she adds. Some experts claim that parents who are overly fixated on their child’s wellbeing send the message that the wellbeing of others isn’t as important. They feel that by making their kids little kings and queens and reinforcing that how they

feel and what they are experiencing is of utmost importance, we give them a false sense of greatness. Others point fingers at the media for teaching kids that being rude is a social norm. Udupa would add that our increased use in technology is also changing the landscape of manners. “With so much technology, kids connect a lot quicker and they expect immediate responses. With all the different ways to connect and comment, minding manners and being patient has become less important. It’s no longer considered rude to sit with a friend and ignore them as you text on your phone or work on your computer,” she says. If you are ever tempted to give in when your child is whining for a toy this instant or insisting you go to McDonalds for a treat right now, think about this: being patient is a big part of succeeding in life. If you don’t help your child learn patience, they might not have what it takes to stick to it when times get challenging now or later on at college or in a career. They might get frustrated waiting for things to happen and simply quit.

“Providing instant gratification is a disservice, not only immediately, but in the long term as well. If your child really wants something, start the conversation by saying, ‘What are you going to do to help earn it?’ Maybe you have them earn half of it through chores and savings. If they have to wait for that special toy or gadget, they will likely appreciate it more and probably take better care of it,” Udupa says. Another take on instant gratification is over-praising your kids. Does it rub you the wrong way to pitch in for soccer trophies at the end of every season, rewarding kids simply for playing? Do you hear yourself praising everything your child does and wonder if it’s the right thing to do? Of course, praising is a good habit but it’s only effective if you really mean it. Kids can see right through false praise, and they might not trust you the next time you say it. If you are selective and praise when they really do something special, they’ll be more inclined to take it in. “Ultimately we want our kids to do a good job for themselves and their own sense of self, rather than to receive praise externally. Praise is important, but by praising everything our children do we are setting them up for a false expectation of what the future holds. As adults, when they enter the work world and expect their boss to praise them every day, they might be disappointed and dissatisfied in their jobs,” Udupa states. The same holds true with teachers and coaches. If they are not receiving constant praise, they may feel like they are not doing well at school or a sport, and lose motivation. Politeness teaches patience. To be polite, your kids have to sit and wait their turn or listen to their old Aunt’s long-winded story without interrupting—skills that will come in handy as they sit through long lectures, listen to their friends’ problems or wait in the lunch line at school. Politeness and patience are the building blocks of relationships. They are what make other people feel heard and respected. They are important too for making friends and maintaining meaningful relationships. If your child is rude or interrupts, other kids will avoid her. If she can’t

make a good impression by smiling and greeting someone in a polite way, she may not be welcome by others. If she always wants her needs to come first, she may struggle in intimate relationships. “Our kids don’t need to be taught more technology skills; they need to learn more people skills. Learning how to talk to people, respect others, give compliments, accept feedback, and learn to give and take will always be valuable—and even more important in 20 to 30 years,” Udupa says. TEACHING PATIENCE, POLITENESS You know this to be true: you are teaching your kids every minute of every day. They look to you to know how to respond to the world. With that said, teach wisely. “Sit back and remember what it’s like to be a kid. Try to think about things from their perspective. If you tell your kids lying is bad, but the phone rings and you shake your head and whisper, “I’m not here” they see that as lying. They can’t see the grey area that

you might understand,” says Udupa. Are you polite to strangers by opening doors and stopping to aid them when needed? Do you practice please and thank you at home and out in the world? How do you greet people on the phone or welcome them into your home? Do you patiently wait in line at the grocery store or do you complain when someone is too slow? Staying conscious of your manners when your kids are in tow will help them learn the valuable life skills of patience and politeness. “When kids are young it’s okay to remind them often to say please and thank you, to wait their turn, and to listen while other people are talking. As they get older give them occasional reminders and by the time they are teenagers you have to trust it’s ingrained,” concludes Udupa. Politeness and patience are two really important ingredients in those beautiful cakes you are making. UCHealth sponsored this article. RMPARENT

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GETTING DOWN TO BUSINESS PHOTO ©TESS BUCHANAN

Competitions spur young entrepreneurs toward success KIM SHARPE

hat do you do when you can’t find a job? You make your own! When the U.S. economy began to tank in 2007, Andrew Minor, a youth career specialist with the Larimer County Workforce Center, began receiving an increasing amount of requests from teens for help finding a job. He said it was nearly impossible to find paying work for kids. So Andrew and some of his Workforce Center colleagues decided to partner with Nick Tart, a CSU graduate, to hatch a plan. Given Nick has only ever had one job for two months, he might not seem like the best advisor about how to earn money, but he is. Tart has started four companies, written four books and helped Minor develop a workshop for youth called “How to Make Your Own Job”—an idea that has evolved into the Young Entrepreneurs Tournament 20

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(YET) now offered in Fort Collins, Denver and Boulder. “Instead of having kids spend time filling out applications and applying for jobs, we decided to teach them how to make their own,” says Minor. “Our mission is to give young people a simple…perspective on entrepreneurship that gets them to start a business and serve a customer,” adds Tart. “Our participants have started dozens of companies, served hundreds of customers, made thousands of dollars, applied for patents, sold their products online and on shelves, changed local legislation, and donated hundreds back to charity… all before they graduated high school.” YET is similar to the popular TV show “Shark Tank,” in that young people are encouraged to turn their clever ideas

into money-making ventures. There are limits, however. “If we have any kind of stipulations about what we want kids to work on, it’s the idea that we want them to be executable during the summer. So if kids come in with grandiose ideas, like they want to open up a wild animal sanctuary, we help them tone down their ideas into something they can do.” YET also pairs participants with mentors from the local business community who volunteer to help teach them the ropes of starting a business. Minor says it’s not difficult to find people who want to help. “The entrepreneurial spirit is so alive in this community that if you give somebody an opportunity to guide a young person on their entrepreneurial journey, we don’t get turned down very often.”

BOOKMARK IT YET was intended for youth 12-18 years old, but Minor had to modify those admission requirements so 9-yearold Acacia Sack could participate in spring 2014. “Her application letter was so amazing and she conducted herself with so much maturity, I couldn’t say ‘no’,” he explains. (Due to Acacia’s success in the program, YET is now open to youth 18 and younger.) Acacia wanted to use what she learned in YET to develop a “stylish and effective bookmark system to help kids read.” All students in her 3rd-grade class had to set reading goals by specifying the number of pages they would read each day of the week and place markers throughout books they were reading to mark their goals. “We would use scraps of paper or sticky notes, but the problem was that they would fall out and kids would lose their place,” says Acacia. “I thought I could come up with a bookmark that would stay in place and be more durable.” Acacia blossomed during the four five-hour sessions that she attended on consecutive Saturdays. With the support of a mentor, she learned how to craft a business plan, a 30-second elevator speech, a budget and make cold calls. The weekly sessions culminate in a competition. She says, participating in YET, “…helped me get used to talking in front of a crowd—I used to be kind of shy, but now you can’t really tell.” Neither could the judges because Acacia won first place in the “Pitch” competition. With the corresponding $100 prize, she hired a CSU graphic design student to design her tabbed bookmarks and paid a printer to print them. She sells her “Reading Goal Bookmarks” as a set of seven—one for each day of the week—and packages them in a clear, acrylic sleeve. Acacia is excited to be able to sell her bookmarks online at www.reading goalbookmarks.com for just $5 per set (teachers receive a 50-percent discounted price). She’s also communicating with local business owners and the nation’s largest teacher supply catalog, eNASCO, to interest them in adding Reading Goal Bookmarks to their inventory. “I really like reading and think other

kids should, too,” Acacia says. “I want to influence kids to make goals and give them tools to help them meet their goals.” Acacia’s mom, Shelby Sack, speaks very highly of YET. “I was amazed when my shy little girl came home after the first session and began cold calling bookmark companies to ask market research questions,” Sack says. “This program is so cool because it teaches kids tangible skills and helps them turn their ideas into reality. They won’t think, ‘where do I want to work, but what do I want to do.” WHAT A DOLL Olivea Borden, fashion designer/owner of Oli-Bo-Bolly (www.olibobolly.com) and junior at Polaris Expeditionary Learning School in Fort Collins, has a similar, service-oriented philosophy when it comes to business. She wants to be sustainable and help people. During a 4-H project, Olivea learned that over 85 percent of clothes that get thrown away in landfills are still wearable. The majority of those are sweaters. So I started getting used sweaters from thrift stores and making them into ‘twirly’ skirts. I use the body of the sweater for the skirt and use the sleeves to make matching leg warmers. They’re really versatile because they’re warm in the winter, and bright and colorful in the spring.” Demand for her twirly skirts helped Olivea start a small cottage industry that now includes hair accessories and her beloved Oli-Bo-Bolly Dollies, which were born out of a Textile Arts class she took at school. She designed and assembled a dolly that her teacher purchased for his daughter. In spring 2013, Olivea’s family spent six months in Nicaragua living among and serving that country’s people. Olivea immediately became attached to the children and wanted to give every little girl she met a doll. When she returned to Colorado, Olivea began sewing dolls to sell so she could afford to make more to give away. The addition of this philanthropic component helped grow her business, but it really took off when she won the Global Leaders Young Entrepreneurship Compe-

tition in February 2014. With her $1,000 prize money, Olivea purchased doll-making supplies and returned to Nicaragua to hire local women to construct the dolls. This has transformed her “Buy-A-Doll, Give-A-Doll” business model into “BuyA-Doll, Give-A-Doll, Empower-AWoman-By-Giving-Her-A-Job!” Olivea returned to Nicaragua a third time in March 2015 to conduct sewing workshops and host her first big dolly give-away party. She also worked with students from the University of Maryland who learned about Olivea’s business and traveled to join her in Nicaragua to study “Microfinance in Action.” Just to be clear, Olivea isn’t in business to make a lot of money; she is in business to spread a message. She says, “When I give away dolls, they come with a message: ‘You are beautiful. You are special. You are unique. You were created for a purpose.’ My hope is that these are truths for each one of us.” RMPARENT

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thompson school district news Mountain View teacher recognized by DECA Mountain View High School marketing instructor and DECA advisor Karen Van Hoewyk has been named “New Marketing Educator of the Year” by Colorado DECA. DECA is an international association of high school and college students and teachers of marketing, management and entrepreneurship in business, finance, hospitality, and marketing sales and service. The organization prepares leaders and entrepreneurs for careers and education in marketing, finance, hospitality, management, and other business areas. TSD SCHOOLS DOMINATE STATE WRESTLING TOURNEY The Eagles of TVHS captured the state 4A championship in runaway fashion, garnering a whopping five individual state championship titles in the process (Morgan Fogg at 113, Vlad Kasakov at 120, Ben Hewson at 152, Parker Simington at 160 and David Eusea at 195). It’s the school’s first state wrestling title in history. Berthoud High School athletes also captured two state titles at the tourney with Jimmy Fate at 145 and Chad Ellis at 170 ending their year on top. Loveland High School and Mountain View High School also had athletes place in the standings, rounding out a very impressive overall showing for Thompson School District. FINALISTS NAMED FOR NATIONAL MERIT SCHOLARSHIPS Congratulations to Elias Gibson of Mountain View High School, Lauren Howard of Thompson Valley High School, and Sean Finan and Andrew Ver Steeg of Loveland High School for being named finalists in the 2015 National Merit Scholarship program. The program honors academically talented students throughout the United States. Approximately 15,000 Semifinalists nationwide were notified that they have advanced to Finalist standing. Continuing through mid-June, the program will notify approximately 7,600 Finalists that they have been selected to receive a Merit Scholarship award. 24

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Veins by Marshall McKinley

The Mountain View High School Art department is pleased to announce the following 2015 Colorado Scholastic Art Award Winners: Gold Key Winners: Marshall McKinley (Senior) and Tori Knutsen (Senior); Silver Key Winner: Luis Santacruz (Junior); Honorable Mention Winners: Raquel Reynolds (Senior) and Katie DiNoia (Senior (LISA)). Students across Colorado submitted over 5,000 original works to be juried for this regional exhibition. The Gold Key winners were then scheduled to be judged at the national level. An exhibition of the works was held at The History Colorado Center in Denver.

The Colorado Music Educators Association Conference and Clinic was held recently at the Broadmoor in Colorado Springs. As a part of the conference, the Colorado Elementary All-State Choir held rehearsals and presented a performance. TSD was represented by six students from Ponderosa Elementary and six students from Garfield Elementary. The students were selected through an audition process and were joined by other students from 50 schools around the state. They presented an excellent performance at the Broadmoor!

Mountain View High School “Loveland area Integrated School of the Arts” student Makenzie Culver and freshman Darren VanWinkle performed with their band “PRADOX” at the Denver Children’s Hospital. They were invited to perform at the Ryan Seacrest Studios and were also able to meet some new fans while their live on-air and TV performance was broadcast into each hospital room!

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poudre school district news Plan proposes improving schools and building new ones Superintendent Sandra Smyser introduced a preliminary Long Range Facilities Plan to update, renovate and construct new facilities within Poudre School District to the Board of Education on March 24. “We’ve been looking forward to tonight to have the opportunity to share with the community our thinking so far on growth in the district and what we need to do with our facilities over the next few years,” she said as she opened the discussion. With a focus on improving existing facilities and creating new ones to address a growing population, the tentative plan will draw on feedback from teachers, parents, community members and experts as it’s refined into its final form over the course of the next year. “We have growth needs that you can feel as you drive around town and see houses being built,” Dr. Smyser said, citing statistics that show projected student enrollment climbing to well over 30,000 students within the next five years. While immediate accommodation of the growing population will add modular units and limit school choice at crowded schools, the long range facilities plan lays out proposals for constructing several new schools as a more permanent solution. Proposed schools being considered include a new elementary school in southeast Fort Collins, a new middle/ high school east of I-25, and a new middle/high school in Wellington. Each site was chosen based on analysis of demographic information such as residential growth patterns, birth rates, building permits and census data. The plan will continue to evolve as community voices are heard. Community engagement sessions are planned through the spring at each school affected by the proposed construction and renovation. For more information about the plan and community engagement ses26

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sions, visit the Long Range Facilities Plan web pages. THERAPY DOGS HELP STUDENTS GROW ACADEMICALLY AND PERSONALLY “Chapter 1: Dogs, dogs, dogs,” second grader Willow St. Germaine said as she settled down next to a relaxed golden retriever named Trevor and started to read aloud. Trevor listened contentedly, shifting positions every now and then when his owner, retiree Kathy Reif leaned over to help Willow sound out a difficult word. As a certified therapy dog, Trevor visits the classroom once a week to listen to kids read out loud. In the process, they develop literacy, fluency and confidence. “It’s easier than reading aloud to an adult,” teacher Lori Ellendorff explained. Along with facilitating development of reading skills, Trevor’s regular presence helped one student to overcome an immense fear of animals this year, and soothed another after her family’s pet dog passed away. He’s one of several fluffy friends at Dunn Elementary, an IB World School, who work with students to develop soft skills. Another golden dog named Sheeba joins school counselor Beth Unruh for thirty-minute sessions with individual students that revolve around developing social-emotional wellness. “We talk about the parallel between animal and human social interaction,” Unruh said. For example, this fall Sheeba came in with her neck shaved after another dog bit her. While examining her injuries, a natural outlet opened for a discussion of bullying, empathy and relating to others. “My favorite part is when the kids come up with something she hasn’t been taught yet,” said owner Brittany Mosher, a graduate student at Colorado State University, where the Human Animal Bond In Colorado program, which she volunteers through was founded. Though the dogs work on a deeper

level than just day-brightening, that’s a happy side-effect for the staff, students and volunteers involved. “I like reading to Trevor because he’s a cute dog, and he’s very fluffy and nice to read to,” Willow said.

PSD Calendar of Events April 10 .... K -12 Parent/teacher conferences, K-12 schools closed, teachers on duty April 13 .... N o school for K-8 students; teacher collaboration day April 14 .... 5 :30pm, Board of Education business meeting, JSSC, 2407 Laporte Ave. April 11 .... 1 to 3:30pm, District Science Fair, Fort Collins Museum of Discovery, 408 Mason Court April 28 .... 5 :30pm, Board of Education business meeting, JSSC, 2407 Laporte Ave.

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greeley-evans district 6 news Board of Education appoints new superintendent same page as we move forward,” The board will now begin to negotiate a contract with the new superintendent. If both Dr. Pilch and the Board sign a contract, the new leader will officially begin working July 1, 2015. The Board met in an executive session following its regular business meeting to begin developing a contract.

The Board of Education voted unanimously at its regular meeting February 23 to appoint Dr. Deirdre Pilch as the new leader of Greeley-Evans School District 6. Dr. Pilch is currently the deputy superintendent for the Boulder Valley School District. She previously served as the principal of Centaurus High School in Lafayette, and has held several administrative and teaching positions in other districts. “She was an exciting burst of energy,” says Board member Rhonda Solis. “When it came to student achievement, she talked about the whole student. When it came to leadership, she talked about her style being collaborative.” All the board members agreed that the three finalists were excellent, and any of the three would have been an excellent choice to lead District 6. The other two finalists were John Borman, the retired superintendent of Lewis-Palmer District 38 in Monument and former principal of Northridge High School in District 6, and Wayne Eads, who is serving as interim superintendent and was previously the Chief Operations Officer. All praised Eads for leading the district in the interim, and his loyalty and hard work in the district. “I know from experience that Wayne is a loyal, hardworking person. He has been the glue through some trying times,” says Board vice president Logan Richardson. “But I do think it’s important for the board to be on the 28

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COUNCIL NAMES CLASSIFIED EMPLOYEE OF THE YEAR The Classified Council has selected Valerie McMahon, office manager at Franklin Middle School, as the Greeley-Evans School District 6 Classified Employee of the Year. McMahon has been employed at District 6 for 25 years. She started as a substitute, then was hired as an attendance secretary at Franklin. She worked on the substitute desk at Central Administration for a while before returning to Franklin as the office manager, a position she has now held for 19 years. McMahon says there are many things she loves about her job. “I think the best part is that no two days are ever the same,” she says. “You never know what you are going to see, or be asked to do. Working at middle school suits me

well. Students are just developing into their adult personalities and their humor. You get a little glimpse of who they will become.” McMahon was nominated by the administration team at Franklin, who noted that McMahon “does a great job of setting high expectations for those around her and helping others achieve those expectations in ways that are focused on meticulous details that create an atmosphere of success.” The Board of Education honored McMahon at its regular business meeting at 7pm Monday, March 9 at the Administration Building, 1025 9th Avenue. Other employees nominated for Classified Employee of the Year were: Jerica Enriquez, John Evans Middle School; Lizbeth Kuban, Heath Middle School; Linda Rulla, Brentwood Middle School; Julie Meyer, Centennial Elementary School; Darrell Husby, Greeley Central Middle School; Bruce Corbin, Administration; Lucia Cruz, Martinez Elementary School; Shauna Holzmeister, Meeker Elementary School; Gilbert Arizmendi, Central Warehouse; Susie Matson, Greeley West High School; Teresa Cox, Greeley West High School; Ramona Mercado, Jefferson High School; Cindy York, Northridge High School; Sheila Ervin, Bella Romero 4-8; and Christina Fikani, Bella Romero K-3.

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lunchbox POUDRE SCHOOL DISTRICT—Elementary student lunches are $2.35, secondary student lunches are $2.60 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 SCHOOLS 1 Orange chicken & rice; hot dog 2 Burrito; chicken patty sandwich 3 Pepperoni or BBQ chicken pizza; chef salad 6 Potato bar q/chili; chicken patty sandwich 7 Cheese ravioli; chicken bites & biscuit 8 Beef fried rice & egg roll; hamburger/ cheeseburger 9 Beef tacos & cilantro lime rice; pig in a blanket 10 & 13 No school! 14 Spaghetti & roasted veggie meat sauce; turkey gravy & roll 15 Asian teriyaki rice bowl w/chicken; chicken drumstick

16 Chicken enchilada bake; chili cheese dog 17 Pepperoni or cheese pizza; Mediterranean pasta salad 20 Sloppy Joe sandwich; mac n’cheese 21 Penne & meat sauce; ham & cheese sub 22 Asian noodles w/chicken; trout treasures 23 Green chili pork bowl; hamburger/ cheeseburger 24 Meat lovers or cheese pizza; chicken Caesar wrap 27 Taco burger; chicken nuggets 28 Lasagna; rotini w/roasted spring veggies & chicken 29 Orange chicken & rice; hot dog 30 Burrito; chicken patty sandwich

SECONDARY SCHOOLS 1 Beef fried rice & egg roll; mac n’cheese 2 Beef & bean burrito bar 3 Tortilla soup bar 6 BBQ chicken filet sandwich; Sloppy Joe sandwich 7 Spaghetti & meatballs; cheese ravioli 8 Asian teriyaki rice bowl w/chicken; chicken nuggets 9 Beef & chicken taco bar 10 & 13 No school! 14 Lasagna; rotini w/roasted spring veggies & chicken 15 Orange chicken or beef 16 Beef & bean burrito bar

17 Turkey pot pie; baked chicken & biscuit 20 Chili cheese dog; chicken bites & biscuit 21 Spaghetti & roasted veggie meat sauce; meatball sub 22 Asian noodles w/chicken or beef 23 Green chili bowl w/pork or chicken 24 Pig in a blanket; mashed potato & chicken bowl 27 Philly cheesesteak (beef or chicken) 28 Chicken nuggets; penne & meat sauce 29 Beef fried rice & egg roll; mac n’cheese 30 Beef & bean burrito bar

THOMPSON R2J SCHOOL DISTRICT — Elementary lunches are $2.75. Secondary school lunches are $3. Reduced lunches are $0.40. Offered daily: PBJs & fruit. 1-3 Manager’s choice 6-10 No school! 13 Chicken breast nuggets; Caesar salad 14 French bread boat; chicken tender salad 15 Hamburger; chef salad 16 Burrito grande; taco salad 17 Orange chicken; garden entrée salad 20 No school! 21 Pizza stick; chicken tender salad

22 Popcorn chicken; chef salad 23 Nachos w/cheese; taco salad 24 Chicken wrap; garden entrée salad 27 Mini pancake w/sausage patty; Caesar salad 28 House made pizza; chicken tender salad 29 Chicken breast strips; chef salad 30 Taco; taco salad

SECONDARY SCHOOLS 1-3 Manager’s choice 6-10 No school! 13 Chicken breast nuggets; sloppy Joe 14 French bread boat; hot ham & cheese sandwich 15 Hamburger 16 Burrito grande; meatball sandwich 17 Orange chicken w/brown rice; pretzel w/cheese sauce

20 No school! 21 Pizza stick; chicken patty sandwich 22 Popcorn chicken; Sloppy Joe 23 Nachos w/meat; lasagna 24 Chicken wrap; French bread boat 27 Chicken & waffles; pulled pork sandwich 28 House made pizza; spicy chicken patty sandwich 29 Fiesta bar 30 Taco; chicken breast nuggets

GREELEY DISTRICT 6 —To obtain a complete meal, student gets an entrée and can select 1-3 sides. Elementary lunches are $2.50, and middle school lunches are $2.75, reduced-price lunches are $.40. Offered daily: PBJ. ELEMENTARY SCHOOL 1-3 No school! 6 BBQ pork sandwich; chicken fajita wrap 7 Cheese ravioli w/red sauce & bread stick; club hoagie 8 Chicken soft taco; PBJ 9 Buffalo chicken sandwich; ham & cheese hoagie 10 Hawaiian or cheese pizza; PBJ 13 Mac n’cheese; chicken salad sandwich 14 Bean & cheese burrito; green chili; turkey & cheese wrap 15 Herb chicken w/roll; PBJ 16 Chicken Alfredo w/breadstick; Italian hoagie

17 BBQ chicken or cheese pizza; PBJ 20 Pork carnitas w/corn tortillas; chicken fajita wrap 21 Teriyaki chicken w/brown rice; club hoagie 22 Breakfast for lunch; PBJ 23 Balsamic chicken w/cheesy polenta; ham & cheese hoagie 24 Pepperoni or cheese pizza; PBJ 27 Hamburger/cheeseburger; chicken salad sandwich 28 Chicken Cordon Bleu sandwich; turkey & cheese wrap 29 Lasagna w/breadstick; PBJ 30 BBQ chicken w/roll; Italian hoagie

SECONDARY SCHOOLS 1-3 No school! 6 BBQ pork sandwich; chicken fajita wrap 7 Cheese ravioli w/red sauce & bread stick; club hoagie 8 Chicken soft taco; PBJ 9 Buffalo chicken sandwich; ham & cheese hoagie 10 Hawaiian or cheese pizza; PBJ 13 Mac n’cheese; chicken salad sandwich 14 Bean & cheese burrito; green chili; turkey & cheese wrap 15 Herb chicken w/roll; PBJ 16 Chicken Alfredo w/breadstick; Italian hoagie

WINDSOR SCHOOL DISTRICT — Price for elementary lunch is $2.35, for middle school students, $2.55. Reduced lunches are $0.40. Salad bar is served daily with entrees. Offered daily: PBJ and yogurt. 1-3 No school! 6 Chicken patty; cheese sticks/goldfish 7 Mini cheese ravioli; corn dog 8 Pancake w/sausage; Jamwich 9 Turkey chili; twin cheeseburger 10 Cheese stuffed breadsticks/ sauce; ham & cheese hoagie 13 Hot dog; Jamwich

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14 Rotini w/meatballs; corn dog 15 Taco; Jamwich 16 Chicken drumstick; twin cheeseburger 17 Stuffed crust cheese or pepperoni; grilled cheese sandwich 20 Cheesy nachos; Jamwich 21 Chicken tenders; corn dog 22 Turkey salad sandwich; Jamwich

23 Teriyaki chicken; twin cheeseburger 24 Mini cheese pizza bagels; grilled cheese 27 No school! 28 Corn dog; chicken patty 29 Mac & cheese; Jamwich 30 Hamburger; twin cheeseburger SECONDARY SCHOOLS 1-3 No school!

6 Chicken patty 7 Mini cheese ravioli 8 Pancake w/sausage 9 Turkey chili 10 Turkey club wrap 13 Wiener wrap 14 Rotini w/meatballs 15 Taco 16 Popcorn chicken 17 Steak & cheese sub 20 Chili nachos

21 22 23 24 27 28 29 30

Chicken tenders Turkey salad sandwich Teriyaki chicken Meatball sub Pepperoni calzone Bean & cheese burrito Mac & cheese Sloppy Joe

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APRIL 2015 ONGOING MARCH 26 THROUGH MAY 26 Powerful Tools for Caregivers Caregivers can learn to increase their self-confidence, reduce stress, better communicate their feelings, balance their life, deal with difficult emotions and locate helpful resources. Class locations and times vary. Registration is required. 970-498-7758 or lmcgowan@ larimer.org. APRIL 1-3 Spring Awakening Eagle Rock School presents this rock musical, set in 19th Century Germany, about a group of teenagers’ journey to self-discovery and understanding. The Rialto Theater Center, 228 E. 4th St., LV. 7pm. 970-962-2120 or www. cityofloveland.org. APRIL 2-30 Relaxation for Brain Health This class combines memory games with relaxation techniques to reduce stress, improve memory. Registration required. $10. Westbridge Medical Suites, First Floor Conference Room, 1107 S. Lemay Ave., FC. Thursdays, 10:30-11:30am. 970-495-8560 or aspenclub@uchealth.org.

APRIL 2 THROUGH MAY 3 Juno and the Paycock A reversal-in-expectations play about how a 1920s working-class Dublin family contends with the strife of Ireland’s revolutionary years and their own inner demons. $26. Bas Bleu Theater Company, 401 Pine St., FC. Show times vary. 970-498-8949 or www.basbleu.org. APRIL 3 THROUGH MAY 1 Masks Nearly 200 artists have applied their varied talents to creating an amazing collection of unique masks. Ticket prices and exhibit hours vary. Fort Collins Museum of Art, 201 S. College Ave., FC. 970-482-2787 or www.ftcma.org. APRIL 4, 11 AND 18 Kids Explore Art Kids in grades K-5 explore and create their own unique works of art using various art tools and techniques. Registration required. Harmony Library, Community Room, 4616 S. Shields St., FC. 10-11:30am. 970-221-6740 or www. poudrelibraries.org.

ImagineArt Explore and create unique works of art using various tools and techniques. Grades 6-12. Registration required. Harmony Library, Community Room, 4616 S. Shields St., FC. 1-3pm. 970221-6740 or www.poudrelibraries.org. APRIL 10 AND 11 The Secret Garden Based on the 1911 story, this play follows Mary and Colin’s journey from challenging circumstances to health and happiness as they are transformed by the magic of nature. $11. The Rialto Theater Center, 228 E. 4th St., LV. Show times vary. 970-962-2120 or www.cityofloveland.org. APRIL 11 AND 12 Snow White A fairy tale ballet where the Dwarfs charm you, the Evil Witch mesmerizes and Snow White enchants your heart. Ticket prices and show times vary. The Lincoln Center, 417 W. Magnolia St., FC. 970-221-6730 or www.lctix.com.

Hours of Operation: M-Th 8-5pm, Fri 8-4 Fort Collins (970) 493-7442

Loveland (970) 493-7442

SCHEDULE YOUR APPOINTMENT TODAY

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Spring Sale April 10-12

Save up to

75%

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APRIL 16-18 Lifetree Film Festival This nonprofit film fest showcases short and full length independent films from around the globe. Ticket prices and show times vary. The Rialto Theater Center, 228 E. 4th St., LV. 970-962-2120 or www. cityofloveland.org.

APRIL 18 THROUGH MAY 16 Early College Studio Art Program This program for students in grades 1012 is a partnership among Front Range Community College, the Loveland Museum/Gallery, ArtWorks Loveland and area artists. Loveland Museum/ Gallery, 503 N. Lincoln Ave., LV. Saturdays, 1-3pm. 970-962-2410 or www.lovelandmuseumgallery.org. THROUGH APRIL 25 Romeo & Juliet Immersed in post Civil War Missouri, this well-told tale of lovers’ strife finds an intimate niche within American culture. Ticket prices and show times vary. The Lincoln Center, 417 W. Magnolia St., FC. 970-484-5237 or www.openstagetheater.org. APRIL 30 THROUGH MAY 3 The Stanley Film Festival In its third year, the festival features horror movies, panel discussions, the “Stanley Dean’s Cup” student film competition and special events with cinema insiders, enthusiasts and fellow artists. Ticket prices vary. Stanley Hotel, 333 E. Wonderview Ave., EP. 970-5863371 or www.visitestespark.com. THROUGH MAY 6 The Nurturing Program for Families of Birth-12 Year Olds This 12-week class provides gentle guidance and support for parents to foster practices that promote positive overall growth for children. Workbook included. Registration required. Single - $25, Couple - $35. Lutheran Family Services Rocky Mountain, 800 8th Ave., Ste. 231, GR. 970-356-6751 or Kore. Joseph@lfsrm.org.

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THURSDAY, APRIL 2 Tree Talk Learn from Greeley Forestry Manager Shiloh Hatcher how to keep trees healthy and attractive for this generation and the next. Lincoln Park Library, 919 7th St., GR. 5:30pm. 888-861-7323 or www.MyLibrary.us. Altitude Ensemble Concert An evening not to be missed, presented by CSU’s low brass choir. University Center for the Arts, 1400 Remington St., FC. 7:30-9:30. 970-491-2787 or www. central.colostate.edu/griffin-concert-hall.

FRIDAY, APRIL 3 Fort Collins Bike Library Grand Opening Spring is coming, celebrate with FCBL at their grand opening! Downtown Transit Center, 250 N. Mason St., FC. 9am-3pm. 970-419-1050 or www.fcbikelibrary.org. First Friday: Firearms of the Frontier Discover the truth about the guns that won the west and see firearms collections of reproductions and original pieces. Greeley History Museum, 714 8th St., GR. 6pm. 970-350-9220 or www. greeleymuseums.com. Friday Night Flicks “Tribute to the Oscars” series begins with this Oscar winner. “The Theory of Everything” is a fascinating story about Stephen Hawking. Windsor-Severance Library, 720 3rd St., WS. 6-8pm. 970686-5603 or www.clearviewlibrary.org.

SATURDAY, APRIL 4 Taking Strides to Save Lives 5K A 5k run or walk to benefit the Alliance for Suicide Prevention. Ticket prices vary. Colorado State University, FC. Registration Check-in begins at 7am. www.allianceforsuicideprevention.org. Mini Critter Quest: Itsy Bitsy Bugs Puppets, music and live bugs will keep children fluttering, hopping and singing during this program presented by The Butterfly Pavilion. Ages 3-5. Registration required. Riverside Library, 3700 Golden St., Evans. 10am. 888-8617323 or www.MyLibrary.us.

Loveland Loves Origami Learn about this unique art in this General Origami Workshop. Ages 11+. Loveland Public Library, Erion Room, 300 N Adams St., LV. 10-11:30am. 970962-2000 or www.cityofloveland.org.

MONDAY, APRIL 6 Big Hero 6 Viewing Party A spring break movie with free popcorn and a post-movie activity. Erie Library, Meeting Room, 400 Powers St., Erie. 888-861-7323 or www.MyLibrary.us. A System Response to Sexual Crimes Against Minors A collaborative panel discussion featuring experts from all aspects of the system will educate the public and service providers. Fort Collins Police Department, Community Room, 2221 S. Timberline Rd., FC. 4-5:30pm. www.childsafecolorado.org. Literary Birdhouse Craft Class Simple paper folding techniques will turn an old paperback into a unique and beautiful decorative birdhouse. Ages 13+ recommended. Old Firehouse Books, 232 Walnut St., FC. 6pm. 970-484-7898 or www.oldfirehousebooks.com. Classic Movie Nights A 1943 American psychological thriller by Alfred Hitchcock. Loveland Public Library, 300 N. Adams Ave., LV. 6-7:45pm. 970-962-2401 or www. lovelandpubliclibrary.org.

TUESDAY, APRIL 7 The Imagination Machine Take a journey inside your own unique imagination in this poetry workshop for young writers. Loveland Public Library, 300 N. Adams St., LV. 1-2:30pm. 970-962-2401 or www. lovelandmuseumgallery.org. Tea Blending Class Master Blender Andy Boone will guide you through the flavors and properties of tea blends for health benefits and/or enjoyment. Cost includes the tea, herbs and tea tin. Participants receive 15% off select teas. $20, $25 day of event. Happy Lucky’s Teahouse, 236 Walnut St., FC. 6-8pm. 970-689-3417 or www. happyluckys.com.

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

Book your child’s dental exam today!

FREE EXAM

for children under 2!

970-635-4353

126 E. 29th St. • Loveland www.kindergrins.com Monday - Thursday 8-5

$75 New Patient Exam

Receive a FREE light-up toothbrush

Includes Exams, Cleaning, Fluoride, X-Rays.

for NEW patients

One coupon per patient. New patients only and without insurance. Not valid with any other offer. Must present coupon at visit.

One coupon per family. New patients only and without insurance. Not valid with any other offer. Must present coupon at visit.

Expires: 4/30/15 RMP0415

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Northern Colorado Children’s Festival Free family activities, hands on arts and crafts, health and safety information, food, car seat checkpoint, children’s merchandise and entertainment! Island Grove Event Center, 501 N. 14th Ave., GR. 10am-3pm. 970-304-6184 or cgelatt@unitedway-weld.org. Make it: Luminous Lights Like making homemade cards? Want to add a cool new twist? Make take home LED cards. Registration required. Centennial Park Library, 2227 23rd Ave., GR. 2-4pm. 888-861-7323 or www. MyLibrary.us.

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 8 Geurilla Poetry for Teens Poetry workshop for ages 11-18. Registration required. Loveland Public Library, 300 N. Adams Ave., LV. 3-5pm. 970-962-2401 or www. lovelandmuseumgallery.org.

FRIDAY, APRIL 10 UMS Puppet Show “Poor Tim” By kids for kids, this fun and educational program shares a lesson on friendship and anti-bullying. Farr Regional Library, 1939 61st Ave., GR. 10:30am. 888-8617323 or www.MyLibrary.us.

Raptors Return of Spring - Swainson’s Hawk, Peregrine Falcon and Eastern Screech Owl. Harmony Library, Community Room, 4616 S. Shields St., FC. 6:307:30pm. 970-221-6740 or www. poudrelibraries.org.

Don Quixote: The Awkward Years What would Don Quixote be like if Miguel de Cervantes set his classic novel in a 21st Century American high school? Registration required. Erie Library, Meeting Room, 400 Powers St., Erie. 12-2pm. 888-861-7323 or www. MyLibrary.us.

THURSDAY, APRIL 9 Spring is Here Plant seeds and paint windows in the teenseen room. Grades 6-12. Loveland Public Library, 300 N. Adams Ave., LV. 1-4pm. 970-962-2584 or www. cityofloveland.org. AMPLIFIED! A Showcase of Local Talents A platform for people of any experience level to perform in front of a live, attentive audience. Nana Bea’s Ice Cream Parlor, 430 Main St., WS. 4:30-6:30pm. 970-6865603 or www.clearviewlibrary.org.

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Poetry Ahead Celebration This festive celebration of poetry, food, and music kicks off a fun month of poetry! Loveland Museum/Gallery, 503 N. Lincoln Ave., LV. 6-8pm. 970-962-2410 or www.lovelandmuseumgallery.org.

SATURDAY, APRIL 11 9News Health Fair Take advantage of free or low-cost preventive screenings and tests. Windsor Middle School, 900 Main St., WS. 7am-12pm. 970-686-9631 or www. windsorchamber.net.

Bike Revival The FC Bike Library will be hosting the party of parties to celebrate spring, bikes and you - the bicycle lover. $10-25. Downtown Artery, 252 Linden St., FC. 6pm-midnight. 970-419-1050 or www. fcbikelibrary.org.

SUNDAY, APRIL 12 Reading History: Those Who Saved Us Take a fresh look at history through the lens of literature in a casual, friendly environment and through a lively conversation. Registration required. Book provided. Loveland Museum/Gallery, 503 N. Lincoln Ave., LV. 1-4pm. 970-962-2410 or www. lovelandmuseumgallery.org. TEDxFRONTRANGE presents The Power of Words TED is best thought of as a global community. It is a community welcoming people from every discipline and culture who seek a deeper understanding of the world. Registration required. Centennial Park Library, 2227 23rd Ave., GR. 2-4pm. 888-861-7323 or www.MyLibrary.us. MythBusters Jamie and Adam UNLEASHED! Get ready for a fantastical evening of on-stage science experiments, audience participation, exciting videos and behind-the-scenes stories. Ticket prices vary. Budweiser Events Center, 5280 Arena Circle, LV. 4pm. 970-619-4100 or www.budweisereventscenter.com.

Wacky Wednesdays 5-8pm (6-9pm during the summer)

NORTHE

RN Col

orado ’s U L T I party a MATE nd Play a rea

$10 OFF

Any Public or $20 OFF ANY Private

Birthday Party Package

Registration required. With coupon Only. 1 Coupon per event. Not valid with other offers. Expires 5/31/15.

Free Pass

Buy one pass to any Public skating session, get one free. Not valid in conjunction with Value Pass, or on Wednesday or Friday nights. Offer valid with coupon only, one coupon per person, not valid with any other offer. Expires 5/31/15.

Register for Summer Today! After-school and Saturday lessons available Teaching Hunter Jumper lessons to riders of all ages! Lesson Horses available • Call today to discuss your training goals Stefanie Hoffman, Owner/Instructor Operating in Fort Collins & Pierce, Colorado

ROLLERLANDSKATECENTER.COM ● 970-482-0497 324 s. Link lane ● FORT COLLINS

970.402.2536 • inspirationriding@gmail.com

www.inspirationridingacademy.com

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WEDNESDAY, APRIL 15 Baby’s Brain: Stress, Temperament & Self-Regulation Understanding different temperaments can make parenting easier. An expert from Best Start for Babies and Toddlers discusses factors that affect your baby’s brain development. Grandparents, caregivers and educators are also welcome. Registration required. Erie Community Library, 400 Powers St., Erie. 5:30-6:30pm. 888-861-7323 or www.MyLibrary.us. Curious Stories of Familiar Plants Cherry blossom, iris and more with Kathy Keeler. Loveland Public Library, 300 N. Powers St., LV. 6:307:30pm. 970-962-2599 or www. lovelandpubliclobrary.org.

THURSDAY, APRIL 16 Loving Loveland, Loving Nature Each program will present the world of nature to your child. Ages 2-5 and caretakers. Namaqua Park, 730 N. County Rd. 19E, LV. 10-11am. 970962-2000 or www.cityofloveland.org. Teen Lit Day Celebrate teen literature at the Teenseen. Grades 6-12. Loveland Public Library, 300 N. Adams Ave., LV. 3:30-4:30pm. 970962-2000 or www.cityofloveland.org. Stress Investigators Discuss and experience healthy remedies for stress relief, such as breathing techniques and visualization. Registration required. Chilson Senior Center, 700 E. 4th St., LV. 2-3:30pm. 970-495-8560 or aspenclub@uchealth.org. The Taste For over two decades, local chefs and beverage purveyors have donated their time, talents and fabulous fare to help fight hunger. Benefits the Food Bank for Larimer County. Ticket prices vary. Hilton Fort Collins, 425 W. Prospect Rd., FC. 6-9pm. www.tastebenefit.org.

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FRIDAY, APRIL 17 Village of Readers: An Evening with LeVar Burton This event is for anyone who believes that every child deserves a strong start and that reading support is essential to success. Adults only. Riverside Library, 3700 Golden St., Evans. 6:30pm. 888-8617323 or www. MyLibrary.us. Poetry and Art at ArtWorks Loveland See and hear how images in works of art inspire poems and those poems in turn inspire new works of art. ArtWorks Loveland, 310 N. Railroad Ave., LV. 6:30-7:30pm. 970-663-5555 or www. artworksloveland.org.

SATURDAY, APRIL 18 Arbor Day 5K Run/Walk The race will start and finish at Boardwalk Park and follow the Windsor Lake Trail. Proceeds will go towards planting trees throughout the community. $15 or $20 day of race. Boardwalk Park, 100 N. 5th St., WS. 8-10am. 970-6743500 or www.windsorchamber.net. Tiny Tot Yoga Yoga class taught through singing, music, movement, stories and games. Ages 3-5. Registration required. Erie Library, Storytime Room, 400 Powers St., Erie. 10:30-11am. 888-861-7323 or www.MyLibrary.us. Food Co-op Earth Day Celebration Earth Day encourages and inspires community members to honor the Earth EVERY DAY and make efforts toward conservation and preservation of our wondrous planet. Civic Center Park, FC. 11am-5pm. www. sustainablelivingassociation.org.

MONDAY, APRIL 20 Writers’ Workshop with Author Ann Aguirre This workshop will give aspiring writers the chance to interact with a nationally recognized author. Open to both Teens and Adults. Registration required. Riverside Library, 3700 Golden St., Evans. 6pm. 888861-7323 or www.MyLibrary.us.

TUESDAY, APRIL 21 Beating the Sugar Blues Learn the impact sugar has on your body and how to break sugar addiction. Registration Required. WindsorSeverance Library, 720 3rd St., WS. 6:30-7:30pm. 970-686-5603 or www. clearviewlibrary.org. WEDNESDAY, APRIL 22 Jazz Ensembles Concert Jazz Ensembles I and II, under the direction of Peter Sommer and Will Swindler, are joined by the great baritone saxophonist Gary Smulyan for a night of burning bebop and deep swing. Ticket prices vary. Griffin Concert Hall, 1400 Remington St., FC. 7:30pm. 970491-5529 or www.uca.colostate.edu. THURSDAY, APRIL 23 Poetry Reading Poetry inspired by Rocky Mountain National Park. Loveland Museum/ Gallery, 503 N. Lincoln Ave., LV. 5:30-7pm. 970-962-2410 or www. lovelandmuseumgallery.org.

NOW G RECRUITING REGISTRATION DAY: April. 25th • 9:00am • Rollerland Skate Center • 324 South Link Lane • Fort Collins

RECRUITING GIRLS AND BOYS AGES 7-12 AND 13-17 • NO PREVIOUS SKATING SKILLS NECESSARY The Foco Spartans Junior Roller Derby program

focospartanbabes@gmail.com • (970)231-8007

is designed to develop character, confidence,

WWW.SPARTANBABES.WEEBLY.COM

leadership, healthy habits and social interaction through the sport of Roller Derby. The Program strives to develop both skilled athletes and those who have not yet realized the champion inside.

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FRDIAY, APRIL 24 Raising Healthy Babies Conference The conference will cover information for immunizations for young children, empowering parents to make safe sleep choices and substance use during pregnancy. Timberline Church, 2908 S. Timberline Rd., FC. 8am-5pm. 970482-4387 or https://raisinghealthybabies. wordpress.com. ChariTEA: Multiple Sclerosis Society Learn about the National MS Society while enjoying free tea. Happy Lucky’s Teahouse, 236 Walnut St., FC. 5-7pm. 970-689-3417 or www.happyluckys.com.

SATURDAY, APRIL 25 Annual Estes Park Early Childhood Conference This conference is open to all early childhood professionals. Breakout sessions include: early intervention, positive behavior support, communication, nature-based learning, storytelling, science, family engagement and others. $40. Estes Park Center, 2515 Tunnel Rd., EP. 8am-4pm. 970-5863055 or www.evics.org.

Loveland Classic 5K & 10K Run/Walk Moving to Empower Little Learners. Don’t miss this active event that raises funds to empower children to become lifelong learners. Ticket prices vary. Lakes at Centerra, 2725 Rocky Mountain Ave., LV. Race times vary. www. lovelandclassic.com. Dino-Light This is the story of a friendly dinosaur who wanders away from home and discovers a world of creatures who help him find the true meaning of love. Ticket prices vary. The Lincoln Center, 417 W. Magnolia St., FC. 2pm and 6pm. 970-221-6730 or www.lctix.com. Animal to Apparel Local alpaca breeders will bring two of their four legged friends to assist in explaining the intriguing process from newborn cria to a finely finished garment. Kersey Library, 413 1st St., Kersey. 2pm. 888-861-7323 or www. MyLibrary.us.

SUNDAY, APRIL 26 Greeley Children’s Chorale Celebrating its 25th anniversary, this regional children’s chorus consists of singers from 3rd through 8th grades.

Adults - $10, Students and children $5. Union Colony Civic Center, 701 10th Ave., GR. 4pm. 970-356-5000 or www. ucstars.com.

MONDAY, APRIL 27 Great Westerns The Outlaw Josey Wales - 1976. Loveland Public Library, Gertrude Scott Room, 300 N. Adams Ave., LV. 6:30-8:30pm. 970-962-2000 or www.cityofloveland.org. Rapunzel: The Musical Phamaly Theatre Company from Denver will perform with a cast of performers with disabilities across the spectrum. $5. Union Colony Civic Center, 701 10th Ave., GR. 6:30pm. 970-356-5000 or www.ucstars.com.

TUESDAY, APRIL 28 Speak for the Trees! Learn how to conserve, preserve and make your own recycled paper with a blender and pressure screens. Grades 3-5. Registration required. Erie Community Library, 400 Powers St., Erie. 888-8617323 or www.MyLibrary.us. WEDNESDAY, APRIL 29  Author Richard Martin Richard Martin, the author of Coal Wars: The Future of Energy and the Fate of the Planet, coming out this month. Old Town Library, Community Room Combo, 201 Peterson St., FC. 7-8:45pm. 970-484-7898 or www. oldfirehousebooks.com. THUSDAY, APRIL 30 After School: Tin art Craft Learn about this folk art which is still popular today in Mexico and dates back to the Spanish colonial period. Grades K-5. Registration required. Estes Valley Library, Hondius Community Room, 335 E. Elkhorn Ave., EP. 4-5pm. 970586-8116 or www.estesvalleylibrary.org. Happiest Toddler on the Block Discover ways to boost your child’s good behaviors and prevent outbursts before they begin. No children please. Registration required. Poudre Valley Hospital, Café F, 1024 S. Lemay Ave., FC. 6:30-8:30pm. 970-495-7500 or www.uchealth.com.

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un F s ’ It shy l a r T a It’s cation Edu s ’ t I It’s the

Garbage Garage Larimer County’s waste & recycling education center at the Larimer County Landfill in Fort Collins

(970) 498-5772 larimer.org/solidwaste

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time out

Allowing for allowance

It’s not always as straightforward as it might seems KRIS KODRICH

ou’d think teens would love allowances. Kalia was hinting about an allowance for months after she turned 13. Her friends all had them. She would buy her own stuff. She’d stop bugging me for money every day. That sounded pretty good to me. So when she started eighth grade, I decided to start giving her $50 a month. Some friends said that was too much, but I thought, hey, if she was going to start paying for her own movies with friends and her musthave sparkly fingernail polish, I’d quickly come out way ahead. The deal was that I’d still buy the basics–like JC Penney jeans, food and school-related expenses–but anything beyond that–fancy Aéropostale jeans or trips to Cold Stone with her friends for ice cream–would be coming out of her own pocket. In exchange, I asked that she do a few more chores. Stuff like filling the dog’s water dish, brushing the cats, and dusting the car’s dashboard. For some reason, my kids complain when I open up all the windows on I-25 in February to blow all the dust out. I never was big on allowances. Although I’ve read statistics that 6 of 10 kids get an allowance, I never had one. I always seemed to have spending money, though. I did help stock my dad’s tavern for some money. And a lunchtime stop at my grandmother’s near my school would always result in a few quarters. Even as a first-grader, I’d run to the corner store for my older brother to get him his “super-sized” (at the time) 12-ounce bottle of Coke while he watched “Leave it to Beaver,” and he’d buy me a 5-cent Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup for my efforts. Yes, a single cup was a nickel back then. (I just realized I’m ancient!) My parents also paid us kids money 42

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for getting good grades–something I have implemented with my own girls and they have pulled in $30 or $40 for a good report card. They get $5 for each “A” and much less for each “B”. They have to do the calculating and give me an invoice. Half of it also has to go into their bank accounts. But Kalia said an allowance would be a good thing for everyone involved,

I just think she realized that it was a pretty good deal for her to hit me up for cash if she went with a friend’s family to Vail, or she needed to buy some fancy face cream. And she never seemed overjoyed when she would point to some fancy boots in Old Navy and say those would be perfect, while I would look at them

and since I was tired of shelling out $20 every time she wanted to go with her friends someplace, I agreed. I also thought it might be good to teach her a few things about budgeting. Guess what? After three months, Kalia was $150 richer, but the cats’ fur was still matted, the car was still dusty, and the dog was still getting his water out of necessity from the toilet. So I put her on probation and cut her allowance to $20 a month to see if that would spark her to action. It’s easy money, I insisted, while she just responded with a teenage pout and, “Why don’t you want your daughter to have any fun?” I cut off her free ride a few months ago.

and say the boots wouldn’t last in the snow or rain. “I’ll buy you these wonderfully durable boots,” I’d say, holding up some clunky utilitarian beasts, “but if you want those other ones, you have money.” She’d put the fancy boots down and sulk for the rest of the day. So the allowance experiment failed miserably. Yes, I’m back to shelling out money for every little thing. But at least she hasn’t figured out how much I owe her for the past few report cards. And she still doesn’t have the fancy boots. Kris Kodrich teaches journalism at Colorado State University.

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