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MAY 2013

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

Our great big connections—taking time to share the natural world with our kids

Women’s h e a l t h . . . . . . 8 Honor yourself—make Mother’s Day all about you

Family activities . . . . . . . 10

Special Sections Summertime summertime MAY 2013

ADVERTIS ING SUP

PLEMENT

Explore the possibilities for this summer and see what programs these providers have for your families.

Wide-open spaces—explore local trails in our parks and natural areas

Healthy living . . . . . . . . . 12 Endless natural bounty—dig into gardening for family time and hands-on learning

Community news . . . . . . 14 Be a good steward—make a difference in your community

Nutrition . . . . . . . . . . . . 16

Right way for restaurants—make dining out more healthful and nutritious

Calendar . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 4

Events and activities for parents, kids and families

Time out . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42

Impossible beauty—Modeling confidence and self-worth challenges this mother

School District News Thompson School District. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24 Big Thompson Elementary Playscape project breaks ground, Thompson School District debuts e-book lending library, Ferguson High School receives summer learning grant, travel opportunities provide Thompson students with international flavor

Poudre School District. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26 Volunteering is an enriching way to give back, calendar of events, Bethke fifth-graders unveil cutting-edge products at invention convention, pilot program at Kruse helps students reduce stress and focus academically

Features 18 Start living a

heart-healthy life-style

Heart disease kills more women in the US each year than all cancers combined. And while it mainly strikes after menopause, numbers for young women getting heart disease is on the rise. That’s why now is a good time to start living a heart-healthy lifestyle; one you can pass on to your kids.

20 The really

great, great outdoors

Make sure that your children spend quality time outdoors exploring this summer. It can be in the back yard, by the creek or in the Rocky Mountains. They will be happier and healthier. Get out as a family. Nature is an excellent venue for building connections and memories together.

Greeley-Evans District 6. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30 Achieve Summer Academy enrolling students, District 6 elementary schools install new video entry systems, Board of Education selects new member, Vicky Rodriquez named classified employee of the year

Lunchbox . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32 School menus for Poudre, Thompson, Greeley-Evans and Windsor

ABOUT THE COVER: Allie, a 4th grader afrom Fort Collins, loves dancing and hanging out with friends & her super cool dad. Photo by Cheri Schonfeld, schonfeldphotography.com.

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NT.COM

perspective Our great big connections taking time to share the natural world with our kids

W

hy do we love to be outdoors in the spring? Even if we’re just sitting on a porch with a little flower garden and a patch of grass, we feel good...refreshed, alive again, almost as if our sap, too, is rising through our trunk and into our limbs. Birds, butterflies, bugs and buds. We feel the pull of green spaces and flowing water as we dip in our connection to the living earth around us.

Our sense of well-being grows in proportion to the time we spend in nature. Why? Maybe because we pause...just for a minute in our busy day. And then we notice that it is a wondrous place here. Sometimes a bee gathering pollen catches my eye. If I’m not in a hurry—and I never really have to be in that big of a hurry, so maybe I should say that if I remember that I’m not really in that big of a hurry—I stop and watch. What a great show right there in my little garden this bee makes as he drifts from one little bloom to the next and then I might notice how cool and complex the little flower is with tiny parts that I’ve passed by a 1,000 times and not noticed. And then I might, if I’m my mind is still there and not thinking about what I have to do this afternoon, feel a connection to that bee...that we all exist in the same space and share the same basic fate. I might even think the next time that I eat some honey maybe I’ll see the bee and flower in that honey, and maybe I’ll even see the sun and the ground that fed the flower and the rain clouds that formed over mountains that rose millions of years ago and the connections go on and on. But usually I rush by the bee because I have something terribly important to do and later I’ll thoughtlessly drop my honey into my tea.

Isn’t it great to share the natural world with our kids? It helps us to see it all anew and it inspires them to feel that connection that is a deep part of who we are. We have several stories this month that talk about kids and nature. Our feature about kids and nature (page 18) by Aly encourages parents to get themselves and their families outdoors and gives some practical advice on how to do that. In our Family Activities (page 8) department, Katie Harris suggests a variety of places you can get out and walk (or just putter around) in our area. And in Healthy Living (page 10), Lea Hanson explores family gardening with some great tips to make it fun for everyone.

And finally, I noticed in the PSD news that counselor Laurie Cullor at Kruse Elementary is unrolling a pilot program called MindUp, which is designed to help students reduce stress and focus on academics using relaxation techniques to calm their brains and focus. According to the story, MindUP teaches kids brain strategies to reduce stress and anxiety and increase awareness, optimism, resilience and happiness. I think this is great and long overdue. I bet these students will be more likely to see the bee.

Finally, don’t miss Lynn Utzman-Nichols’ story (page 8) about making Mother’s Day all about you! And let’s all remember to spend more time with our mothers...and our mother Earth.

I’m just saying...

Scott Titterington, Publisher 6

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May 2013 • Volume 17, 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 DISTRIBUTION Wendee Brungardt, Sharon Klahn, Rob’s Bike Courier Service COVER PHOTO Cheri Shonfeld, schonfeldphotography.com CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Lea Hanson, Katie Harris, Richard Keller, Aly Titterington, 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. ©2013 Rocky Mountain Publishing, Inc. All rights reserved. Reproduction without express written permission is prohibited.

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women’s health

Honor yourself

Make Mother’s Day all about you!

L ynn U t z man N i c h o ls

T

his Mother’s Day, I encourage all moms to do what we don’t do well: Be selfish. All day.

Don’t settle for just flowers or breakfast in bed, insist that your family spend the whole day doing just what you want.

Mother’s Day was created to honor you, so let it do just that!

To really make it count, think about the things you love to do with your family, from small to large, and jam in as many of these activities as you can. Most likely, it involves fun, family interaction. How about staying in your pajamas and playing Monopoly all morning? Or having someone else make breakfast (and more importantly, clean up) then heading out the door for a family hike? Maybe it’s a double feature at the movie theatre (your pick) with an extra-large popcorn and you plopped right in the middle.

Here’s an idea. Pick things your family usually resists, and play the Mother’s Day card. It just might get you in to see that exhibit at the art museum you’ve wanted to see, or it might buy you a bike ride through Old Town with ice cream at the end. Most likely everyone will enjoy whatever you pick.

After all, we moms tend to value doing things that fill us up—and being filled up with lots of connection and joy makes everyone happy.

Or maybe you are feeling quite the opposite and would rather have some alone time. Go for it! It’s your day.

Schedule a facial or massage and return to your family refreshed. This can be the best gift of all, especially when your kids are young.

Hopefully you won’t be tempted to lie on the couch all day and use your queen status to scream orders, but a little of that’s fine. Remind your kids that this is your special day, so they will need to get their own drink of water or 8

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make their own snack. Tell them that relaxing and playing is all that’s allowed on Mother’s Day, and if you work you are breaking the rules.

As you relax on the lounge chair out back, contemplate what it means to be a mother and fathom all the mothers who came before you—all the sacrifice, love, care and joy that has been created by generations and generations of mothers. Think about your own mom and the good life lessons she specifically taught you (and ask your son to go fetch you your cell phone so you

er’s favorite flower. Her mother, by the same name, had a history of organizing women’s groups to promote peace and friendship. The spirit of these groups served as the origins of Mother’s Day. By 1914, the second Sunday in May was deemed a national holiday by President Woodrow Wilson. While it can feel overly commercial today, don’t let all the hype lessen the true meaning of Mother’s Day—a child’s heartfelt appreciation for her mother, and a wish to honor who her mother was and the beautiful job she did.

can call and tell her how you feel). At the same time, really open to the words your spouse and kids say to you on this day—soak up all their hugs and words of appreciation for you.

Mother’s Day originated in the U.S. from a daughter’s wish to honor her mother. Anna Jarvis of Philadelphia held a memorial service to honor her mother after she died on May 12, 1907.

She decorated the church and had lots of white carnations on hand, her moth-

Lastly, think about what makes you a great mother. Consider your ability to provide unconditional love at the hardest of times—during bouts of stomach flu, per say, or after snotty words from a teenager who is trying to break away.

Pat yourself on the back for always being there for your kids, day in and day out. Let the words, “I am a good mother” sink in to the bottom of your toes. Because you are. You are amazing.

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family activities

Wide-open spaces

Explore local trails in our parks and natural areas K a t i e Ha r r i s

I

t’s time to take a day off from work and household chores, and get the family out into great wide-open spaces! May is a beautiful time to explore our local parks and natural areas. Head out on the trail and you might even get to witness some of Colorado’s wildlife firsthand, or get your feet wet in a secluded waterfall just a couple miles outside the city limits. There’s so much to explore right here in northern Colorado, so put on your hiking boots, pack a snack, and get on the trail!

Coyote Ridge Trail: This 2.3-mile

round-trip trail is a great viewing area for wildlife; it also has fantastic views to the west from the trail’s summit. The hike features an elevation gain of approximately 600 feet, and is appropriate for walkers ages 5 and up. Parking is located on Taft Hill Road in Fort Collins, approximately 3 miles south of Harmony Road. No permit required. The trail is enjoyed by bikers, hikers and horseback riders, so remember to share the trail. Visit www.fcgov.com/natural areas/finder/coyote for more information.

is located close to town. Parking is located just south of Hughes Stadium in Fort Collins. It is an appropriate hike for ages 3 and up. No permit required. Check www.fcgov. com/naturalareas/finder/pineridge for closures due to unsuitable trail conditions.

Horsetooth Falls: This beautiful 2.25-mile round-trip trail is an ideal hike for spring, when the falls create a shallow wading pool. The dirt trail is part of Horsetooth Mountain Open Space and features a gradual gain in elevation as well as areas of steeper step climbing. It is an

ous points as well as restrooms. Parking is located off Hwy. 7 between Estes Park and Allenspark. The trail is appropriate for hikers ages 2 and up. No pets allowed on trail. No permit required. Visit www. rmnp.com/RMNP-Areas-LilyLake.

HTML for details.

Poudre River Trail: This 21-mile trail features several great hiking spots for families with small children. Park at the Poudre Learning Center, 8313 W. F St, Greeley, and enjoy an educational 1-mile dirt loop while exploring native

Devil’s Backbone, Wild Loop:

This dirt trail is 2.1 miles round-trip, and features a slight gain in elevation. The Wild Loop trail loops back after reaching the keyhole landmark with views of the city. It is an appropriate hike for ages 4 and up. Parking for the Devil’s Backbone trailhead is located off Eisenhower Blvd, just west of Loveland. No permit required. The trail is shared by bikers, hikers and horseback riders, and can be crowded, so remember to be considerate of trail etiquette. Visit www.larimer.org/ parks/bbone.cfm for more information.

Dixon Reservoir loop: This 1.8mile round-trip trail loops around Dixon Reservoir and is popular with hikers, bikers, horseback riders and fishermen. The dirt trail is a level, easy trail for beginners and 10

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appropriate hike for ages 5 and up. To access the trail take Harmony Rd. west until it turns into CR 38E. Continue west and turn right on Shoreline Dr. for parking. $6 permit/vehicle required. Visit www.co. larimer.co.us/naturalresources/htmp.cfm for trail condition updates.

Lily Lake: This 1-mile round-trip hike is one of few Rocky Mountain National Park hikes that does not require a park pass. The level, dirt trail loops around the lake and features picnic benches at vari-

Colorado vegetation, or park at the trailhead off 71st Ave. in Greeley for a variety of scenic and family-friendly trails, including one that leads down to the river.

The Poudre River Trail is appropriate for hikers ages 3 and up. No permit required.

Visit www.poudretrail.org for more information and trail maps.

Remember to pack water, snacks, extra layers of clothing, sunscreen, bug spray, hats and sunglasses. Make sure everyone is wearing appropriate clothing and footwear.

Breathe deeply and enjoy the view.

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healthy living

Endless natural bounty

Dig into gardening for family time and hands-on learning L e a Hans o n

K

ids are natural gardeners: They’re curious, like to learn by doing, and love to play in the dirt.

Playing outdoors is fun and healthy for everyone. Increase the amount of time your family is outside by making your garden an appealing outdoor space. Involve your children.

They can help older family members build a garden starting at 2 or 3.

Even better, they can plant their own patch and experience the satisfaction of caring for something alive while observing the cycle of life firsthand.

Christine Ginnity, Youth Programs Coordinator at Fort Collins’ Gardens on Spring Creek says, “Gardening is kind of like having a pet; it’s an opportunity for kids to take care of something growing.”

Here are some suggestions for making gardening enjoyable for children:

Incorporate learning everywhere There are endless ways to make the garden a learning environment. Concepts of nutrition, nurturing, and cooking are obvious connections for most, but also try teaching art by making signposts, astronomy by making a sundial, math by measuring distance between rows and plants.

Stake a claim Section off a corner of the garden or yard where a child can do as he or she pleases. It doesn’t have to be designed or even particularly attractive, just separate.

This individual plot will become a source of pride and sense of responsibility for younger gardeners.

Let them choose their bounty Letting kids select which plants they’d like to grow creates instant buy-in. Most often, these will be plants and foods they recognize, such as cucumbers, carrots, or pumpkins. Plants with large seeds, such as peas or beans are easiest for small hands to sow. While it’s important to let your child take the lead, offer suggestions that you know will tweak their interest. For example, although radish seeds are small and few kids love to eat them, they offer almost instant growth and harvest.

12

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Hiding places are a win Kids love small spaces and places to hide. Construct a tepee from tall poles and twine and cover it with climbing beans and flowers. Building a special room by planting a circle of tall sunflowers is another favorite and, in Colorado

climate, easy to do. Remember to leave an opening for a door!

Don’t make it a chore Make gardening fun, not work. Offer encouragement and how-to, but go easy on overly detailed advice. Model the way rather than imposing direction; if a child sees you at work in the garden, he or she will want to imitate what you do. Show your kids it’s fun to get dirty!

Real and long-term benefits Studies have repeatedly shown that children who grow their own food are more likely to eat fruits and vegetables and exhibit higher levels of knowledge about nutrition. They are also more likely to continue healthy eating habits throughout their lives. Christine Ginnity says, “Studies prove kids are more likely to try new foods when they see them grow.”

Even Brussels sprouts, she noted, which are usually a hard sell, are well liked by kids when they have participated in growing them.

Establishing a connection to nature is important for any child’s development. Children who develop regard and concern for the natural world are more likely to develop respect for the environment and all of its resources. Ginnity says, “Kids’ involvement in gardening is multifaceted. It includes getting fresh air, learning new things, and is a sneaky way to get some exercise as kids bend, move, and shovel.”

For a novice, planting a garden can be intimidating. But it’s actually a pretty easy project to tackle, and one that’s enhanced by having kids participate. There is more than enough time to get seeds in the ground. According to Ginnity, May 16 is roughly the final frost date in Northern Colorado. Until then, start your seedlings indoors and start mapping your project!

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community news

Be a good steward Make a difference in your community

By KIM SHARPE

W

ith warmer temperatures, and trees and shrubs leafing out, many people are thinking about how they can be green, too. NoCo communities encourage sustainable living, including being water wise.

The City of Fort Collins began enforcing watering restrictions on April 1, 2013. Lawn watering is allowed two days per week: • Even residential addresses may water lawns on Thursdays and Sundays • Odd residential addresses may water lawns on Wednesdays and Saturdays • Commercial businesses, multi-family housing units and homeowners associations may water lawns on Tuesdays and Fridays • Lawn watering is not allowed 10am6pm or on Mondays. Watering flowers, trees, shrubs and vegetable gardens is not restricted, but a hose shut-off nozzle is recommended. Residents who wash their cars must use a shut-off nozzle and bucket. Washing surfaces with water, such as driveways and sidewalks, is not allowed.

The City of Greeley is asking its residents to voluntarily follow Drought Level 1 recommendations by watering lawns: • One day per week until May 14 • Two days per week until June 14 • Three days per week until August 31 • One day per week until October 15 • No watering 10am-6pm • It is strongly recommended that newly seeded or sodded lawns not be installed during June, July or August.

The City of Loveland has not mandated watering restrictions yet, but asks residents to be mindful of their water use and conserve whenever possible.

If you grow it, you have to mow it Fort Collins residents who purchase an 14

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electric or reel lawn mower from participating retailers may be eligible to receive a $25 rebate and many of the participating retailers are adding in-store incentives. Check the website for retailers.

Individuals who purchase a clean reel or electric mower from a participating retailer may also recycle their old gasoline mowers at Colorado Iron and Metal (1400 E. Mulberry St.; 970-4827707), or Bath Power Equipment (1505 S. Timberline Road; 970-484-5024), to receive an additional $25 rebate.

Rebates are given on a first-come, first-served basis to City of Fort Collins residents. Rebate forms received after June 3, will not be honored. For complete information, visit www.fcgov.com/ airquality. Questions can be submitted to Lucinda Smith at lsmith@fcgov.com or 970-224-6085.

Fort Collins residents also are eligible to obtain a $25 rebate from the city for signing up for a full season’s worth of clean lawn mowing service from one of two Fort Collins’ companies: Clean Air Lawn Care (970-224-4885) or EnviroFriendly Lawn Care (970-590-2235).

Contact these companies directly for more information.

Got board?

On March 5, Fort Collins became the first community in Colorado to require that corrugated cardboard be recycled or reused rather than thrown away. By requiring citizens and businesses to reuse or recycle corrugated cardboard containers and packaging materials, experts estimate approximately 12,000 tons of bulk will be kept from cluttering up the Larimer County landfill.

Corrugated cardboard is easily identified by its three layers. When looking at the edge of the cardboard, a wavy inner liner can be seen. Note that waxed cardboard, which is used to ship bulk produce, and food-contaminated cardboard, such as a pizza boxes, are excluded from the ordinance. These materials should be composted or disposed of in the landfill.

For more details and guidance on identifying or recycling cardboard, please visit fcgov.com/cardboard.

For more information on Fort Collins cardboard ordinance, contact Senior

Environmental Planner Susie Gordon at 970-221-6265 or sgordon@fcgov.com. If you have cardboard boxes others can use or need some, visit online sites such as Freecycle.org or Craigslist.com to post or find boxes being given away.

Relationships matter: Moving past poverty and homelessness According to the 2011 American Community Survey, Fort Collins is home to 146,777 persons—28,555 of them are children under the age of 18. Unfortunately, about 14 percent of the people who call Fort Collins “home” don’t actually have one.

The “HCC Snapshot” (www. healthylarimer.org/snapshot) reports that, “In Fort Collins, a point-in-time study conducted on January 23, 2013, estimated 250 men, women and children were homeless. Twenty percent (20 percent) of the individuals counted were under 18 years of age and 36 percent of all homeless individuals were living in households with children.”

So what exactly is homelessness?

The McKinney-Vento Homeless Education Program defines homelessness as the lack of a fixed, regular and adequate nighttime residence.

Homeward 2020, a Fort Collins agency addressing homelessness, defines it as “the condition and social category of people who lack housing, because they cannot afford, pay for or are otherwise unable to maintain regular, safe, and adequate housing.”

Daniel Covey, Hand Up and Transitions coordinator with Homeless Gear in Fort Collins, says that some people who truly are homeless might not consider themselves homeless because they share housing with another family or live with relatives or friends. But when people share housing due to the loss of their own house or economic hardship versus preferring to live that way because of cultural beliefs or a temporary means to save money, it really becomes a condition of homelessness.

Other situations that constitute homelessness are living in: • Motels, hotels, trailer parks or camp grounds due to lack of alternative adequate housing

• Emergency or transitional housing • Cars, parks, public spaces, abandoned buildings, substandard housing, or bus or train stations.

Believing all these conditions are unacceptable, a group of Fort Collins nonprofits are partnering to address poverty and homelessness. The Education and Life Training Center, Homeless Gear and Volunteers of America are combining forces and recruiting volunteers interested in helping them. They are emphasizing the importance of social capital and human relationships in addressing the issues of poverty and homelessness.

On Tuesday, May 14, 12noon-1pm at The Matthews House Community Life Center, 220 North Grant Ave., these nonprofits will host “Relationships Matter,” an event where participants can learn about the complexities of poverty and homelessness, and about opportunities to get involved. It is open to the public and lunch will be provided; RSVP to www.surveymonkey.com/s/ RelationshipsMatter.

Based on the 2010 census, 13.8 percent of Weld County residents are homeless. The point-in-time study conducted on January 22, 2013, in that county revealed that 182 adults and 81 children were living either on the streets or in shelters. The United Way of Weld County is facilitating a Homeless Coalition to address poverty and homelessness in Greeley and Evans. The coalition’s membership includes approximately 20 nonprofit organizations, school districts and local government entities.

In June, the group is launching what they call “mobile day centers.”

Currently, the North Colorado Health Alliance (NCHA) operates a mobile unit to deliver basic low- or no-cost medical services to specific neighborhoods and shelters; it’s staffed by Sunrise Community Health Center professionals. “Basically, we’re adding other services to the mobile unit, such as housing and employment assistance, and continuing education advising,” says Vincent Atchity, chief operating officer of the Alliance.

The Homeless Coalition also is deploying a Community Care Corps in June. “We’ll be imbedding human re-

source staff in high-need neighborhoods.

They will be the local, friendly people who can direct residents to the help they need. Care Corps staff and volunteers also will train and encourage residents how to advocate for change in their own communities,” Atchity explains.

For more information about Weld County’s Homeless Coalition, contact Atchity at 970- 350-4673 or vatchity. alliance@nocoha.org.

May is skin cancer awareness month It’s easy to get a lot of sun exposure in Colorado. While it helps human bodies produce necessary Vitamin D, it also can cause skin cancer. Because early detection is the key to curing all types of skin cancer, free skin cancer screenings will be offered on Saturday, May 11, 8-11am, at the Family Medicine Center, 1025 Pennock Place, in Fort Collins.

Appointments are required; call 970-495-8560.

Local 5th grader wins Americanism Contest Ginger Jacobs, daughter of Jon and Kendra Jacobs of Fort Collins, is the state winner of the Elks Americanism Essay Division 1 Contest. The contest is held annually in Fort Collins and is open to all students in the 5th grade.

This year’s theme was “What Does the National Anthem Mean to Me?” According to Mike Demma, Fort Collins Elks Lodge #804 Americanism chairman, approximately 450 essays are received annually and judged for 1st-, 2nd- and 3rd-place recognition.

“Ginger did extremely well,” Demma says. “I’m impressed with the quality and thought that goes into these essays.”

Fit Family Run Racers of the two-legged variety can participate in the 6th Annual Fit Family Fun Five Mile Run on Saturday, May 18.

The event offers a scenic, high-altitude race for the competitive runner, as well as a non-competitive walk/run for the entire family (strollers are welcome). Teams are encouraged to register, too. (Registration discount and team prizes will be awarded). Visit www.fitfamily5mile.org for more details and to register.

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nutrition

Right way for restaurants Make dining out more healthful and nutritious R i c h a r d K e ll e r

L

ife is hectic. No matter how much you plan your week, there is always something unexpected that knocks it off kilter. When that happens, sometimes all you want to do is take a nap and go out for dinner.

This is not a problem in the northern Colorado area–there seems to be an eating establishment at every stoplight.

It comes down to what the healthiest option is for you and your family. Here are a few items to consider when choosing your dining destination.

Avoid fast food If nutrition is first on your list, eliminate any stop at a fast food establishment.

Yes, many of these restaurants are now offering low-calorie options, but they aren’t telling you about the high amounts of fat, carbohydrates, and cholesterol these selections may have. In addition, a meal here can make your family too sluggish to do anything else, or hungry for a snack a few hours later.

If your family is practically demanding a meal at a fast food restaurant, try to choose the healthy options available. Avoid fries and shakes and concentrate on any chicken and salad dishes they may offer. Any requests for soda are out of the question – its water or milk if at all possible.

Bypass the buffets If your family members are easily tempted, then stay away from buffet restaurants like Country Buffet and Golden Corral. In addition to menus featuring deep-fried foods, heavy creams, and starches in the form of white pasta and potatoes, the unlimited amount of items available may give your children a sense of carte blanche when it comes to filling up their plates. And we can’t forget the dessert display, which will tempt your children to tear into cakes and ice cream

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even when they say they’re full. The potential result – tired families with indigestion and other stomach ailments.

If you can’t budge your children away from the buffet, then skip the hot stations filled with chicken fingers, mashed potatoes, and macaroni and cheese. Instead, head to the salad bar and fill up on multi-colored vegetables topped with low-fat dressing. For protein, consider the carving station, which normally has lean cuts of ham and turkey available for consumption. For dessert, stick with the frozen yogurt machine and avoid the gooey, sugary toppings.

Skip the children’s menu Many sit-down restaurants cater to their younger guests with a children’s menu.

Unfortunately, the selections on these are sometimes less healthy than what the adults are offered. Filled with nuggets, fries, and other heavy starches and carbs, the selections can keep your children tossing and turning in their beds due to an upset stomach. And with the smaller portions, they may want to eat something else not long after you leave the restaurant.

Since many children tend to ask for a taste of their parents’ food, consider ordering for them off the adult menu and splitting the entrée into smaller plates. The restaurant may charge an additional sharing fee to your bill, but the kids will be able to eat healthier and they’ll stop asking you for a taste.

Bringing it home Sometimes the problem with eating out is not what’s available, but the urge to include something not healthy in your meal – like a fried appetizer or a gooey dessert. And since there’s plenty of time between courses, lingering glances at the good-looking yet fatty extras can cause your family’s temptations to rise. This is not only unhealthy, but it can stretch your dining budget.

One possible solution is to bring the food home. Many restaurants offer online menus that you can utilize for ordering. They also have a separate station where To Go orders can be picked up, allowing you go get in and out of a restaurant without any unnecessary stops for a tower of fried onion rings.

What Will your Child do this Summer?

Check out our X-Treme Summer Fun Program for School-Age Children!

Visit our web site for more information.

3 Northern Colorado Locations East Fort Collins (970) 484-4700 West Fort Collins (970) 229-0300 Loveland (970) 461-9802 www.brighthorizons.com/rmparent

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Start living a heart-healthy

lifestyle Avoid heart disease for yourself and pass on the good habits to your kids

By Lynn Utzman Nichols

E

veryone fears the Big C, but there’s another disease that takes more women’s lives. According to the World Health Organization, heart disease kills more women in the U.S. each year than all cancers combined. And while it mainly strikes after menopause, numbers for young women getting heart disease is on the rise. That’s why now is a good time to start living a heart-healthy lifestyle; one you can pass on to your kids.

Living heart healthy What’s a heart healthy lifestyle? In short, eating healthy foods and exercising daily.

Most likely you know a woman who has heart disease—your mother, aunt, sister or friend. “One in three women experience heart disease at some point in their lives. That’s a staggering number.

It’s life-changing to be diagnosed with heart disease,” says Dr. Wendy Austin, a cardiologist with the Heart Center of the Rockies and director of the center’s Women’s Heart Health Program.

While the term “heart disease” refers to various heart conditions, one of the common causes of heart disease is narrowed or blocked blood vessels that lead to the heart—causing the heart muscle to strain as it pumps blood and delivers oxygen to the rest of the body. When blood vessels get too narrow from plaque build-up—the sticky, fatty substance that lines blood vessels over time—the result can be a heart attack or stroke.

That’s where exercise and eating well comes in, as they both keep 18

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plaque from building up. Plus, exercise strengthens your heart muscles. “By changing your lifestyle, you can change your outcome,” Austin says.

Eating for your heart According to Heart Center of the Rockies registered dietician Jenifer Bowman, MS, RD, eating a heart-healthy diet isn’t that different from eating a basic healthy diet. “In general, you should eat highfiber foods like whole grains and a lot of fruits and vegetables; choose low-fat dairy products and lean proteins from a variety of sources,” Bowman advises.

It’s also important to eat foods that are as close to their original state as possible. For example, eat an apple versus a fruit spread, or grill fresh meat instead of buying it breaded and fried in

a package. “Avoid highly processed foods as they often have added fat, salt and sugar,” she adds.

A heart-healthy diet includes Omega 3s, the essential fatty acids found in fish. “Omega 3 has clear cardiac benefits as it maintains blood consistency, lowers blood pressure and improves the rhythm of the heart. We recommend our patients eat two fish meals a week. If they don’t like fish, we suggest an Omega 3 supplement upon their doctor’s approval,” Bowman says.

A diet high in sodium, or salt, poses a specific risk as it increases blood pressure. “Don’t just use less salt as a condiment, also eat less packaged, canned, processed and fast foods as these are notoriously high in sodium,” she says.

Finally, remember the old idea that

At risk for heart disease? Join WomenHeart If you have been diagnosed with heart disease or are at risk, the Heart Center of the Rockies (HCOR) invites you to attend a monthly WomenHeart support group. HCOR offers women a safe place to exchange information and feelings, overcome challenges, gain motivation to lead a healthy lifestyle and connect with other women around heart disease. WomenHeart is a nationwide coalition of women heart patients and their families, physicians and health advocates that’s supported by the Mayo Clinic.

“We created the program so women could come together—women who have experienced a heart event or who are at risk and want to prevent heart disease,” says Dr. Wendy Austin, a cardiologist with HCOR and the program’s medical director.

Call 970-297-6550 or visit pvhs.org/women-heart for more information. Watch for seminars and events on women’s heart health coming this summer in 2013.

WomenHeart Support Group First Wednesday of every month, 6:30 to 8 p.m. Heart Center of the Rockies 2121 E. Harmony Road (third floor conference room), Fort Collins, CO

eggs are bad for you because they increase your cholesterol? That theory has been disproven many times, and eggs are back in favor. “Eggs are low in fat, high in protein and have antioxidants in the yolk that are beneficial,” Bowman concludes.

Exercising for your heart This may seem obvious, but exercise is good for your heart. Here’s why: According to the Cleveland Clinic, regular exercise reduces your risk for heart disease by reducing risk factors. For example, moderate exercise reduces your chance of developing diabetes and high blood pressure. It also improves blood sugar levels, improves blood lipids (lowers bad cholesterol and raises good) and reduces body fat.

“The current recommendation is to aerobically exercise 30 minutes most days to keep your heart healthy,” Austin says. Let’s not forget that your children will take note of this healthy lifestyle habit: “I’m a new mom and I realize that it’s my job to help my child form healthy habits. When she’s older I can’t tell her to go out and exercise or eat well unless I am doing it myself,” she adds.

Don’t wait—your risk starts now You may believe you are too young to worry about such things. In your head, you’re thinking “I’ll start when I’m older.” Maybe you’ve heard that the classic age for women to get heart disease is after menopause, in their 50s and beyond. This might sway you: “We all form what’s called a “fatty streak” in our arteries from quite young, even as children.

Once the fatty streak is created it can’t be dissolved. The fatty streak doesn’t cause problems, per se, but it forms a base for plaque to build on. Without regular exercise and healthy eating, plaque progresses,” Austin says.

In other words, the plaque that builds up today (or yesterday) is there forever. It’s the slow build-up of plaque in your 20s, 30s and 40s that causes a heart attack in your 50s. Also, know this: According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, heart disease is the third most common cause of death among women ages 25 to 44 years old and two-thirds of women who have

heart attacks never fully recover. Are your yoga pants and running shoes looking better now?

Heart disease risk factors include diabetes, high blood pressure, smoking, family history and high cholesterol.

Remember, risk factors add up. For example, if you’re diabetic and smoke and overweight you’re risk for a heart attack in your lifetime is very high.

Family history of heart disease?

Antennas up!

If you have a family history of heart disease—say a parent who died from a heart attack or a brother who had a stroke, be especially wary. “This is where people get into trouble. They may be fit and thin and eat well and have no risk factors, but they can still be at risk for heart disease if they have a strong family history,” Austin states. If you are one of these people, get tested early and often, especially if you have even one risk factor.

“I recommend starting baseline tests in your 30s. You can’t control genetics, but there’s a lot you can do to strengthen your heart,” she adds.

Women’s heart attack symptoms Did you know heart attack symptoms are often different for women than men?

“We all recognize the elephant-on-thechest feeling as a heart attack, but there are atypical signs that are more frequent in women that can go unrecognized,” Austin says. According to a National Institutes of Health study, fewer than 30 percent of U.S. women reported chest pain or discomfort before a heart attack.

“A heart attack might feel like pain in odd places, like the jaw, abdomen or back rather than the chest. Sometimes women simply feel short of breath, fatigued or nauseas. Elderly women might feel light-headed,” Austin says. Knowing these signs can save a life.

When to get further tests So you know you have a family history of heart disease. Or, you’ve got high cholesterol. You’ve lowered it some with diet and exercise changes, but it’s still high. What next? Get a risk assessment test. Risk assessment tests such as coronary cat scans and carotid ultrasounds

MythBuster!

Women and heart disease Myth: Heart disease is a man’s disease. Truth: Nearly as many women get heart disease, the leading cause of death for women in the world.

Myth: All heart attacks start with chest pain, pressure and heaviness.

Truth: Besides these classic symptoms, women can experience shortness of breath, fatigue, insomnia, headaches, trouble breathing or pain in a strange spot like the jaw, neck, shoulder or abdomen.

Myth: Heart disease only affects older women.

Truth: Women in their 30s and 40s are diagnosed with heart disease, and cardiac death among this age group is on the rise.

Myth: You can’t do anything about heart disease.

Truth: You can significantly lessen your chance of dying from a heart attack by managing your blood pressure, cholesterol, blood glucose levels and diabetes risk.

assess if risk factors are setting you up for blockages and disease.

Risk assessment tests help identify problems before they develop, and answer the question: How high risk is this patient? They are different than heart disease screenings, or stress tests. With a stress test, you run on a treadmill while hooked up to an EKG machine. The test shows how well your heart muscle is working, and if blood is readily being distributed throughout the body. Usually, stress tests are given when symptoms are already occurring.

If you don’t have a family history for heart disease, annual check-ups should suffice: “Get a yearly cholesterol, glucose and blood pressure check. You don’t even have to go to your doctor. Health fair screens work as well,” Austin says.

Remember, adopting a heart healthy lifestyle is not only good for you, but good for your kids. The positive habits you pass on today will ensure heart health for them in their futures.

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Connect your kids with nature for life

A

friend and I were in charge of a group of 2nd-grade boys after school for an afternoon.

I explained the activity: “We’re going down by the creek to build forts. You get to design and build them, use whatever you’d like.” They looked intrigued.

Their parents looked horrified. No structure? No more instruction? Nope.

One dad was constantly swiping his son with mosquito repellent. Another parent asked about snakes, another about spiders and another about time.

I was shocked. Didn’t they want their children to be creative, resourceful, to play? Outdoor time has changed from a non-structured to a controlled playtime.

By the end, the parents were as excited about the activity as the kids.

Make sure that your children spend quality time outdoors exploring this summer. It can be in the back yard, by the creek or in the Rocky Mountains.

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They will be happier and healthier. Get out as a family. Nature is an excellent venue for building connections and memories together.

What to do and where to go We live in a gorgeous place, and whether you have an afternoon or a three-day weekend, endless places abound for getting out.

Explore your own backyard and neighborhood. Is there a creek or field nearby? Allowing kids unstructured outdoor time is an excellent way to promote creativity, ingenuity and confidence in your children. Build forts. Little more is needed than a tree, sticks and a little twine.

Explore the ground. Touching living species of plants, animals and dirt is a powerful way for children to learn compassion. Studies have shown that children who spend time in nature generally show more empathy towards all

living things.

Think about your goals when deciding on an activity. If you want physical activity or just some good family time in the sun, nature can provide the backdrop.

If you have a full day, check out one of the many trails in northern Colorado.

Horsetooth Reservoir area and Lory State Park have beautiful hikes. Head up Poudre Canyon and explore one of the many scenic paths. If hiking isn’t your cup of tea, try biking. Bike paths meander along the rivers and in all northern Colorado towns. Or maybe running around in a park is just what your family needs.

Locate one of many parks in your area.

If you have a free weekend, consider camping in Rocky Mountain National Park or the Snowy Range in Wyoming.

Head east to the beautiful plains of Colorado. If you don’t want to camp, small mountain towns offer lodging. Other options include staying in cabins, the

Forest Service has several available. Or stay in one of many yurts in either the Never Summer Yurt System or the 10th Mountain Division Yurts.

Get educated To have the best possible experience in the woods, make sure that you are prepared and educated about the dangers associated with your activity. Ashton Wilson of Educo Leadership Adventures suggests that you, “operate within your comfort zone when traveling as a family. Families wanting to take the next step should utilize outdoor companies and hire a guide.”

If you are hiking, be sure to have a map, plenty of water for the length of the hike and amount of time you’ll be out, sunscreen, extra layers, and snacks.

If you are embarking into more treacherous terrain, toss in a first-aid kit and know how to use it.

Classes are available in northern Colorado. They include camping classes, first-aid classes and classes specific to activities such as climbing, mountain biking or camping. Check them out at REI, the Aztlan Center, or Poudre Valley Health System. Consider hiring a guide or making reservations with private guiding companies such as Educo Adventures, Kent Mountain Adventure Center or Inner Strength Rock Gym. Benefits for kids Benefits of connecting kids with nature are limitless.

Children have an innate curiosity and nature provides the perfect opportunity for constructive and positive exploration of that curiosity. Allowing for unstructured time in the outdoors promotes confidence in children. They are able to explore whatever catches their eye.

Wilson, having worked with thousands of youth, says, “students who want to learn, retain knowledge. And kids who can choose what they want to learn have a greater investment.” Give your children the time outside to investigate their questions. Learning to ask good questions is a life-long process and nature is a great place to start that process.

It’s easy to ask questions in the outdoors, and right or wrong answers rarely exist.

Watch them leap from one question to another. Start creating their investment in nature at an early age.

Whatever activity they choose, whether it’s building a fort, trolling down the path or sitting in one area for an hour, your children will be healthier for it. They’ll run, jump, twist, roll and maybe scrape a knee. They’ll breathe fresh air and soak in some Vitamin D. For a kid, that’s a dream day.

Nature teaches all of us, especially kids, how to adapt. The outdoors are never predictable, which is part of their beauty and charm. It’s a natural way to teach your children improvisation, creativity and ingenuity.

The woods teach us about natural consequences to our actions. If we don’t put on a jacket when the sun goes down, we get cold. If we take risks in jumping over rocks, we may fall down. And that’s ok. It’s all about learning that balance.

The connection that each child feels with nature is unique. Make sure your child has the opportunity to form and explore their own connection.

Benefits for the whole family “The question here is not: From what are you escaping while in nature (such as iPads, TV, traffic, etc.), the real question is—what does nature provide?” –Ashton Wilson. Nature provides a unique experience that your family, and only your family, can share. You may be the only people to watch a gorgeous sunset,

while the sound of the river churns behind you. Be each other’s entertainment.

Take breaks on hikes. Sit and admire the scenery. Point out small details to one another. Encourage exploration as a family. Shared experiences create the strongest relationships.

Later down the road, you’ll be able to share these experiences again and again. The woods will be there.

What are you waiting for? Get started on planning and exploring. You’ll see both short- and long-term benefits from getting outside and playing as a family and encouraging your children to go play outside.

Children and Nature Connection Interested in resources and information about getting outside with the family? Check out the Children and Nature Connection–Northern Colorado. Members are available present on getting families outdoors as well as providing a number of resources at www.kids natureconnection.org. To schedule a presentation or get more info contact Rob Novak at rnovak@ larimer.orgor 970-679-4561.

Wild and Free Check out these websites for open-spaces near you.

Larimer County www.larimer.org/naturalresources/ City of Fort Collins www.fcgov.com/parks/ City of Loveland (click on Open Lands/ Natural Areas) www.cityofloveland.org/

City of Windsor (click on Park, Recreation and Culture) www.windsorgov.com City of Greeley Park and Recreation greeleygov.com/Parks/default.aspx Colorado State Parks and Wildlife www.parks.state.co.us/Pages/ HomePage.aspx

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Classes for ages 2 and above

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thompson school district news Big Thompson Elementary Playscape breaks ground groundwater filtration, to be used with district science curriculum to teach concepts of water run-off, filtration, and erosion; • New play equipment, including in-ground hill slides, a rock climbing wall, and other traditional equipment; • Poured rubber surfacing, complete with poured-in contrasts depicting educational concepts such as water cycles and food webs; • A natural play garden where children can stimulate the senses by manipulating and interacting with carefully selected plants, seed pockets, and rocks; • An artificial turf playing field.

Big Thompson Elementary students helped with the groundbreaking for their new Playscape.

On Friday, March 29, 2013 the Thompson School District officially broke ground on the Playscape project planned at Big Thompson Elementary School in Loveland. GL Hoff Construction was awarded the construction contract by the district’s Board of Education.

“We are thrilled to see this community-driven project succeed,” says Michael Jones, Assistant Superintendent of Human Resources and School Support for the district. “They have worked tremendously hard over the past three years and we are excited to see their vision come to fruition.”

The Playscape project, initiated by students of Big Thompson Elementary School and the local community and funded entirely through grants and donations, will create an outdoor experiential learning and play area at Big Thompson Elementary School.

Construction for the play area began on April 1, with a grand opening scheduled for the end of August.

The project, slated to cost an estimated $540,000, is 95-percent funded at this time. Grants from local entities such as the Community Foundation of 24

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Northern Colorado and the Pulliam Foundation were added to community fundraisers at local eateries and the “Pennies for Playscape” student campaign. Together, those funding sources were leveraged to compete for a Great Outdoors Colorado grant, which was awarded to the project last December.

Other local partners include the Larimer County Department of Natural Resources, Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment, and Rocky Mountain National Park. Over $50,000 of in-kind donations for professional services and materials were also essential in fulfilling the project’s needs.

“We are happy to support Big Thompson Elementary School as part of our efforts to connect youth to the outdoors,” says Peter Kast, Chair of the Larimer County Open Lands Advisory Board. “Their vision is an asset to the school and our community.”

Once completed, the Playscape project will offer a variety of amazing experiences for students. Features will include: • An eco-trail with interpretive signs; • A plant-laden bioswayle for natural

“Having a chance to get hands-on activity is a valuable part of the educational experience,” says Dr. Stan Scheer, Thompson School District Superintendent of Schools. “The Playscape at Big Thompson Elementary will provide yet another unique method for students to learn about important concepts, while also having fun along the way. We are deeply indebted to all of the wonderful organizations and individuals who have partnered with the district to make this possible. We can’t wait to show off the finished product later this summer!”

For more information on the Playscape project, please contact Thompson School District Public Information Officer, Mike Hausmann, at 970-613-5011 or via email at michael.hausmann@ thompsonschools.org.

Thompson School District debuts e-book lending library The Thompson School District debuts of its new e-library system, a collection of over 300 digital books made accessible to students on smartphones, tablets and e-readers.

Among advantages for students, an e-library never closes and can also be accessed anywhere there is an Internet connection. As more library services become digital, students will have an easier time gaining access to library research materials. The district will add to its

Georgia Wilson, Thompson School District teacher and EF group leader, rests after taking students to the summit of Huayna Picchu, the Inca sentry mount for Machu Picchu in Peru.

digital book collection each year.

Thompson School District subscribes to its virtual library services via a company called OverDrive, which has long been a source of digital material for public libraries to loan to their patrons.

Students are now able to check out titles at any time of the day or night and read or listen offline on PC or Mac® computers, iPads, smartphones, MP3 players, and e-Book readers including the Sony® Reader and Kindle®. Access to Thompson’s digital library is open year-round, which means that students will be able to check-out books all summer long and never have to worry about turning them back in.

“The research is clear, the more kids read, the greater their achievement.

And the better they read, the more they will achieve,” says Diane Lauer, Director of Curriculum and Instruction for the Thompson School District. If students have devices to accommodate e-book reading, they are one step closer to anytimeanywhere learning. Any child who is enrolled at any school within the district can access digital e-books. With our ability to monitor our student book checkouts across the system, we will be able to adjust our expenditures to maximize financial stewardship, as well as respond to the learning needs of our students.”

The implementation of the e-book

lending library has been paid for through the district’s general library fund. Thompson’s Curriculum and Instruction Media Services department will continue to support both print and digital books in all of its libraries.

Students who wish to use the new e-book service should contact a staff member in their school library.

Ferguson High School receives summer learning grant Ferguson High School has received a 21st Century Schools supplemental grant of $33,000 to fund its summer program which allows students to create much of their own learning environment outside of the school walls.

The program will accommodate various levels of learning styles, schedules and interests where students will have access to community partners to pursue their passions. The students will design their schedule with a teacher/ advocate who will assist them in taking control and responsibility of their own learning. The six-week program will include individual study, artists-inresidence, field trips, multiple-subject area workshops and more.

Ferguson is a 2012 recipient of a five-year 21st Century Learning Centers Grant. The supplemental grant is geared for summer programs only.

Travel opportunities provide Thompson students with international flavor What do the Eifel Tower, the Sydney Harbour Bridge, and the Leaning Tower of Pisa have in common? They have been part of a remarkable experience for hundreds of Thompson R2-J students for nearly three decades of international student travel with EF Tours on all continents except Antarctica.

The “EF” stands for “Education First” and couldn’t be more appropriate.

The company’s goal is to provide the student traveler with a total immersion into the culture of the host countries— the people, food, dance, art, schools, architecture, wildlife and more.

Any student in middle school or above is eligible to travel in the program.

Local district teachers act in the capacity of group leaders and chaperones, remaining with the travelers 24/7, as does the multilingual tour director, who greets them at the host country airport.

Students have taken school supplies to needy students in rural Costa Rica. Responsible Earth stewardship has been embodied in their planting of trees in the rainforest. They have discovered what it means to employ teamwork in negotiating a raft through whitewater, to be a risk-taker in trying new foods and customs, and to live the meaning of tolerance while adjusting to new and exciting cultural lifestyles. Students have financed some or their entire trip though numerous fundraisers.

In the words of author Miriam Beard Page: “Travel is more than the seeing of sights; it is a change that goes on, deep and permanent, in the ideas of living.”

The following teachers may be contacted (first name.last name@thompsonschools.org) for more information regarding enrollment for their upcoming student tours: Dave Dellwardt (Ivy Stockwell) – England/France, June 2013; Selene Peck (TVHS) – Italy, June 2013 & British Isles, June 2014; Kim Knowles (LEMS ) – Spain, April 2014; Carolyn Sanders (BRMS) – Belize, June 2014; Georgia Wilson (Coyote Ridge) – Australia & New Zealand, June 2014.

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poudre school district news Volunteering is an enriching way to give back to the community

Traci Wise, VBC for Tavelli and her husband Dan, also a volunteer, take a hike.

Poudre School District has over 17,000 volunteers, consisting of parents, grandparents, seniors and community members. Managing that many volunteers in 48 schools is quite a feat! Helping the PSD’s Volunteers & Partnerships office manage the multitude of volunteers at each school site is a Volunteer Building Coordinator (VBC). These dedicated volunteers donate many hours to ensure the volunteer program at their school is a success. Some have done it for many years, starting in elementary schools, and continuing in this volunteer position even after their children move on to middle school and even high school!

VBC for Tavelli, Traci Wise, has been co-coordinating volunteers since the 2011-12 school year. This is her final year as coordinator. She has had children at Tavelli since 2004, and has volunteered in various capacities since then.

“Tavelli is like a big family,” says Wise. “There are so many great staff and dedicated parents that pitch in wherever they are needed.” One particular memorable event is for the outgoing 5th grade students. They organize and host a graduation ceremony, make yearbooks, and host a 26

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beach party. Wise says, “Each year, it is a new group, and they always carry on this great tradition.”

Wise’s husband, Dan, has also spent time volunteering in classrooms, as well as hosting a field trip at his workplace, Fort Collins Wholesale Nursery. “Many other dads, as well, are often seen helping out in classrooms, chaperoning field trips, and at special events like the annual Duathalon. This is a Friday evening run-bike-run event sponsored by Poudre Valley Health Systems and hosted yearly

by Tavelli,” says Wise.

In her spare time, she loves to read, spend time with her family, and work in the garden at her home. She adds, “We’re always looking for a spot for new perennials!”

Bethke fifth-graders unveil cutting-edge products at invention convention Can’t seem to find a kitchen towel when you need one? Find it difficult to saddle up your horse? Struggling with not having a convenient place to put your iPod when you sleep on the top bunk?

Fifth-graders at Bethke Elementary may have solved these and other common every-day problems, or filled a need

that you didn’t know existed, with their original inventions that were recently unveiled at the Bethke Invention Convention. The students’ state-of-the-art inventions feature contraptions that keep snacks handy, keep snacks warm, keep snacks cold, hold jewelry, hold beauty products, make pets happy, make pet owners happy and tons more nifty gadgets designed to take care of pesky problems or just make life easier.

With “customer satisfaction or your money back” guarantees, the young inventors passionately gave their sales pitch about why their product won’t disappoint you.

Take Jonathan Fuller’s one-of-akind Super Survival Pants for instance.

“I wanted to create something that fellow hikers would like and buy. These pants are special because they have Velcro. You can carry your tools without putting them in your pockets and using up that space,” explained Jonathan matter-of-factly.

Bethke teacher Lisa Rossi says students are constantly learning as they go through the invention process including cultivating an original idea, researching patents, developing and testing their final products.

For those loving pet owners offended by their pooch’s breath, Rachel Arguelles’ Dog Breath Exterminator might be the answer to their prayers.

Her product strives to get rid of doggie bad breath and includes personal testimonials of “My dog loved it!”

Of course, no Invention Convention would be complete without a new and improved reliable cleaning product on the market. “Always looking for a towel in the kitchen? Well, not anymore,” says Ava Hovland.

Thanks to Ava’s “Keep ‘n Kleen” apron, you will always have a towel by your side. Literally, that is. The brightly colored apron comes with the kitchen towel Velcro’d to it.

“It’s quick, easy and very trendy,”

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Calendar of Events May 6-10 ... T eacher Appreciation Week May 14 ....... 6 :30pm, Board of Education business meeting, Johannsen Support Services Complex, 2407 LaPorte Avenue.

May 17 ........ K - 8, Teacher Work Day, NO SCHOOL for K-8 students May 23-25 ... P SD High School Graduations– check PSD website (www. psdschools.org) for more information.

May 27 ......... M emorial Day, No School May 28 ......... 6 :30pm, Board of Education business meeting and work session, Johannsen Support Services Complex, 2407 LaPorte Avenue May 31 ......... K -12 half day of school, Last day of school!

Fifth-graders demonstrate their inventions during the Bethke Elementary Invention Convention. Students had to come up with an original idea, research patents, and develop and test their final products.

promises Ava, while demonstrating her product with skill worthy of the Home Shopping Network.

New pilot program at Kruse helps students reduce stress and focus academically With the classroom lights turned off, Kruse Elementary counselor Laurie Cullor soothingly encouraged fourthgrade students to close their eyes and calm their brains by focusing their attention on their breath.

“Breathe in gently and try to fill up your belly with your breath. If your mind starts to wander, bring it back, notice the thought and let it go,” says Cullor.

The peaceful breathing exercise is how Cullor began her lesson on “Mindful Eating.” The lesson’s breathing techniques and mindfulness focus is a big part of the MindUP program, a new pilot program at Kruse. MindUP teaches kids brain strategies to reduce stress and anxiety and increase awareness, optimism, resilience and happiness.

“We’re teaching kids how to calm down and focus. We’re giving them strategies and with more practice, they’ll be able to do it on their own,” says Cullor, who visits classrooms every two weeks to facilitate lessons.

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MindUP is divided into four units that include lessons on getting focused and mindfulness, sharpening your senses, benefits of a positive attitude, and taking action to encourage gratitude and kindness. As part of the mindfulness lessons, students learned about their brains and how it connects to their emotions.

With the lights back on after their meditation, the fourth-graders learned how to pay attention to what they were eating.

Each student was given a Dixie cup filled

Kruse Elementary students examine the texture of food items during a lesson on “Mindful Eating.”

The lesson’s mindfulness focus is a big part of the MindUP program, a new pilot program at Kruse that teaches kids brain strategies to reduce stress and anxiety and increase awareness, optimism, resilience and happiness.

with one grape, one small pretzel, one baby carrot, one yogurt-covered raisin and one tiny marshmallow. Cullor instructed the students to put the grape in their mouths, but not swallow it immediately. “Take a bite and swirl it around in your mouth,” she says. “Now tell me what you think of it.”

“It’s hard not to swallow because grapes are so delicious,” says fourth-grader Tucker Smith.

Cullor encouraged students to pay attention to the smell and texture of the foods, and to slowly experience the taste of each bite rather than just quickly gobbling the snack.

“It’s awful. If it had ranch on it, I would like it,” says fourth-grader Logan Myers, about the carrot.

Cullor believes learning mindfulness skills, core breathing techniques and other MindUP skills only benefit students and help them academically, as well as in other areas of their lives. The program has also been shown to decrease bullying and increase positive social behaviors with kids.

“They are learning to manage their emotions and reactions so they can manage conflicts better. They’re learning to be better focused and that impacts how they do academically,” she says.

After they finished their treats, Cullor asked the students what their impression of being mindful was. “Being mindful is being positive. You kind of take it slowly and realize what’s really happening,” says fourth-grader Abby Wilcox.

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greeley-evans district 6 news Achieve Summer Academy enrolling students Achieve Summer Academy is now enrolling Greeley-Evans School District 6 students at all levels for summer sessions, to be held June 3 - July 25.

Five learning opportunities are available for elementary, middle and high school students.

Elementary school students will work on improving their reading, writing and math skills. Students also have the option of enrolling in an afternoon program through the Rodarte Center or the Boys and Girls Club, where they will participate in activities such as sports, games, bowling, swimming, skating and go on field trips.

The dates and times of the elementary program vary by school, and not all schools will offer programs.

Middle school students will focus on the subjects where they need help. They, too, will be able to enroll in the afternoon programs at the Rodarte Center and Boys and Girls Club. Not all middle schools will offer summer programs.

High school students will have several opportunities to catch up or accelerate their learning through Achieve Summer Academy. Credit recovery programs will be available for students who received a failing grade in any core subject class. Students may enroll in two courses throughout the summer. Instruction for the credit recovery classes will be a blended model of face-to-face instruction and online instruction.

High school students can also enroll in traditional or online courses to accelerate their progress. Or, students who need additional assistance learning English can enroll in intensive English language classes.

All high school courses will be held at Northridge High School, 100 71st Avenue in Greeley.

Financial waivers are available for students who cannot afford the afternoon program fees.

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Students interested in enrolling in Achieve Summer Academy should contact their school counselor or visit the Achieve website at www.greeley schools.org/achieve. Questions can be directed to Renee Fleecs via telephone at (970) 348-6265.

To access these schools, visitors will be required to press a button and identify themselves to employees in the main office, who will have visual access via a closed circuit camera system. School personnel will grant access to visitors who have been

District 6 elementary schools install new video entry systems Greeley-Evans School District 6 installed entry video intercom systems in all elementary and K-8 schools to help improve school safety and security at these sites.

Many of these systems were installed over Spring Break, from April 1-5. The systems were activated before students returned April 8.

The front doors at elementary and K-8 schools will be locked once school starts each morning until school dismisses in the afternoon.

properly identified.

This system will allow personnel to more closely monitor who enters schools and improve security at these sites.

Anyone with questions about the system can make inquiries to the administration at individual schools or call John Gates, District 6 Director of Safety and Security, at (970) 3487777.

Board of Education selects new member The Greeley-Evans School District 6 Board of Education selected Greeley

resident Roger DeWitt as its newest member in March, replacing longtime board director Judy Kron, who resigned in January.

DeWitt, a part-time instructor at the University of Northern Colorado, once worked as a substitute teacher in District 6.

“It was a very difficult decision and we had such an excellent pool of candidates,” Board President Doug Lidiak. “Mr. DeWitt’s experience and strong commitment to the community is admirable, and he focused on the needs of students during his interview.”

Six candidates applied for the vacant position. Five were interviewed by the board March 18. Applicant Stan Kerns, a Greeley businessman, was not able to attend the interviews, although his application and a follow-up email were reviewed by all board members.

The board unanimously approved the appointment of DeWitt. Four

out of the six sitting board members supported DeWitt during the discussion, while two supported candidate Logan Mahan, a regional manager for a textbook broker. But all said the two finalists were great choices for the position, and the board would be well-served by either candidate.

“I am very excited, and I really can’t wait to get to work,” DeWitt said. “There is a lot to be done. I want to be part of this group as we move forward to meet these challenges.”

DeWitt was officially sworn in as a board director at the March 25 regular school board meeting. This seat will be again open for election in November, 2013.

Lidiak said the board was impressed with the pool of applicants, and their strong desire to serve the students of District 6.

“I highly encourage all the candidates to run this fall,” Lidiak said.

Four of the school board positions will be up for election in November.

Vicky Rodriguez named classified employee of the year Vicky Rodriguez, a paraprofessional at Monfort Elementary School, has been selected by the Greeley-Evans School District 6 Classified Council as Classified Employee of the Year.

Rodriquez was selected from a pool of 22 classified employees, whose jobs include office managers, custodial staff, parent liaisons and paraprofessionals.

Rodriguez has worked at Monfort for the past three years, but has been employed in District 6 since 1997. She started her career in the special needs preschool at Jefferson Elementary School. She runs several programs, including a study hall, tutoring and detention at Monfort.

“My greatest reward is watching children grow, feel good about themselves and know they will succeed in life,” Rodriguez said.

Rodriguez was honored at the Board of Education meeting Monday, March 25.

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lunchbox Poudre School District —Elementary student lunches are $2.15, secondary student lunches are $2.40 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 1 Chef salad; hamburger; corndog 2 Veggie wrap; Teriyaki chicken, grilled chicken sandwich 3 Turkey & cheese deli; cheese pizza; black bean tostada 6 Ham & cheese deli; chicken sandwich; turkey pot pie 7 Yogurt & fruit box; mac n;cheese; chicken enchilada bake 8 Vegetable paella w/tofu; cheeseburger; chicken Caesar salad 9 Chicken bites; hot dog; PBJ 10 Mediterranean wrap; pepperoni pizza; cheese raviolis 13 Beef burrito; yogurt & fruit box; sausage pancake wrap 14 Grilled cheese w/tomato soup; grilled chicken sandwich; PBJ

15 Lasagna; chef salad; chicken nuggets 16 Veggie wrap; BBQ chicken sandwich; cheese pizza 17 No school!

20 Sloppy Joe; turkey & cheese deli; chicken bites 21 Yogurt & fruit box; chili & cinnamon roll; cheeseburger 22 Mac n’cheese; pig in a blanket; Mandarin chicken salad 23 Turkey gravy & potatoes; PBJ; chicken sandwich 24 Spaghetti; chef salad; pepperoni pizza 27 No school 28 Grilled chicken sandwich; cheeseburger; turkey & cheese wrap

14 Chicken nuggets; beef tacos 15 Italian lasagna; chicken soup & sandwich 16 Baked chicken; burrito 17 HS only: Veggie paella w/tofu; chicken fajita w/tortilla 20 Beef Szechwan; chicken taco 21 Mac n’cheese; rice & egg roll 22 Chicken bites; beef tamale bake 23 Penne pasta w/sauces; pig in a blanket 24 Cheese ravioli; turkey pot pie 27 No school!

28 Veggie lasagna; chicken nuggets 29 Smothered burrito; fruit & yogurt parfait 30 Baked chicken; spaghetti w/meatballs

29 Asian rice bowl; cheese pizza; hummus & veggies 30 Chicken drumstick; beef burrito; PBJ Secondary schools 1 Chicken nuggets; grilled cheese w/ tomato soup 2 Orange chicken w/rice; Philly cheesesteak 3 Asian noodle bowl; burrito; hot dog 6 Mac n’cheese; chicken taco 7 Black bean tostada; Italian spaghetti 8 Chicken bites; chicken enchilada bake 9 Baked potato bar; Spanish chicken 10 Turkey gravy w/potatoes; Asian rice bowl 13 Cheese ravioli; chicken quesadilla; meatball deli sandwich

Thompson R2J School District —Elementary lunches are $2.50. Secondary school lunches are $2.75.

Reduced lunches are $0.40. Offered daily: PBJs & fruit.

Elementary schoolS 3 Chicken patty sandwich; rice and bean burrito 6 Pancake w/sausage; chicken nuggets 7 Variety pizza; baked potato 8 Burger; rice & bean burrito 9 Taco; baked potato

10 Chicken enchilada casserole; fruit and yogurt plate 13 Chicken strips w/potatoes and gravy; ravioli 14 Stuffed pasta; baked potato 15 Mac n’cheese; rice and bean burrito 16 Chicken quesadilla; taco salad 17 Chicken nuggets; egg roll

20-29 Manager’s choice Secondary schools 1 Chicken patty sandwich; nachos 2 Chicken tacos; popcorn chicken 3 Teriyaki chicken bowl; fish tacos 6 Waffle; chicken breast strips 7 Variety pizza; chicken fajita wrap 8 Burger; chicken parmesan sandwich

9 Taco; pork rib sandwich 10 Chicken enchilada casserole; ham & cheese sandwich 13 Chicken strips w/potatoes & gravy; sloppy Joe 14 Stuffed pasta; burger 15-29 Manager’s choice

Greeley District 6 —To obtain a complete meal, student gets an entrée and can select 1-3 sides. Elementary lunches are $2.25, and middle school lunches are $2.50, reduced-price lunches are $.40. Offered daily: PBJ. Elementary schools 1 Spaghetti w/meat sauce; PBJ 2 Turkey w/dinner roll; ham & cheese hoagie 3 Taco pizza; egg salad sandwich 6 Sloppy Joe; turkey & cheese wrap 7 Chicken w/rice; PBJ 8 Chicken Alfredo pasta; chicken salad sandwich 9 BBQ chicken w/dinner roll; ham & cheese hoagie

10 Hawaiian pizza; egg salad sandwich 13 Chili; turkey & cheese wrap 14 Pollo roll-up; PBJ sandwich 15 Baked ziti; chicken salad sandwich 16 Ham & cheese sandwich; mashed potatoes and gravy 17 Veggie pizza; tuna salad sandwich 20 BBQ pork sandwich; turkey & cheese wrap 21 Tacos w/rice; chicken salad sandwich

22 Lasagna; PBJ Secondary schools 1 Spaghetti w/meat sauce; PBJ 2 Turkey w/dinner roll; Italian wrap 3 Taco pizza; tuna salad sandwich 6 Sloppy Joe; chicken fajita wrap 7 Chicken w/rice; PBJ 8 Chicken Alfredo pasta; club wrap 9 BBQ chicken w/dinner roll; ham & cheese hoagie 10 Hawaiian pizza; egg salad sandwich

13 Chili; turkey & cheese wrap 14 Pollo roll-up; PBJ sandwich 15 Baked ziti; chicken salad sandwich 16 Chicken w/roll; Italian wrap 17 Veggie pizza; tuna salad sandwich 20 BBQ pork sandwich; chicken fajita wrap 21 Tacos w/rice; club wrap 22 Lasagna; PBJ

Windsor School District —Price for elementary lunch is $2.30, for middle school students, $2.50. Reduced lunches are $0.40. Salad bar is served daily with entrees. Offered daily: PBJ and yogurt.

Elementary schools 1 Chicken Alfredo 2 Pizza burger 3 Cheese or Mexican pizza 6 Chicken sandwich 7 Cheesy nachos 8 Pancakes 9 Picnic chicken & ranch

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wrap 10 Pizza dippers 13 Popcorn chicken 14 Hog dog 15 Mac n’cheese 16 Chicken tenders 17 Big Daddy pizza 20 Chicken nuggets

21 Stuffed shells 22 Manager’s choice 23 Manager’s choice Secondary schools 1 Chicken Alfredo 2 Pizza burger 3 Burrito 6 Chicken sandwich

7 Chili chips and cheese 8 Pancakes & sausage 9 Picnic chicken & ranch wrap 10 Meatball sub 13 Hot & spicy chicken sandwich 14 Weiner wrap

15 Mac n’cheese 16 Chicken tenders 17 BBQ sandwich 20 Chicken nuggets 21 Stuffed shells 22 Manager’s choice 23 Manager’s choice

Cakecups... introducing

...our cake and ice cream treat. available in mid-May Southwest corner of Horsetooth and College West of Albertson’s

970-225-1040

buttercreamcupcakery.com

172 North College Avenue

970-482-2505

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M AY 2 0 1 3 ONGOING Through May A Year with Frog and Toad A fun show for kids and parents!

Midtown Arts Theatre, 3750 S. Mason St., FC. 970-225-2555 or www. midtownartscenter.com.

Through May Pinkalicious An entertaining show for the whole family! Midtown Arts Theatre, 3750 S. Mason St., FC. 970-225-2555 or www. midtownartscenter.com.

Through May How I Became a Pirate A show for kids and parents alike.

Midtown Arts Theatre, 3750 S. Mason St., FC. 970-225-2555 or www. midtownartscenter.com.

Through May 19 Legally Blonde This upbeat musical comedy, based on the Hollywood blockbuster of the same name, this feel-good story is perfectly pink and infused with fun and frivolity. Midtown Arts Center, 3750 S. Mason St., FC. 970225-2555 or www.midtownartscenter.com.

Through June 16 Guys and Dolls: A Musical Fable of Broadway An 11-time Tony Award winning classic, this soars with the spirit of Damon Runyon’s Broadway. Candlelight Dinner Playhouse, 4747 Market Place Dr., Johnstown, CO. 970-744-3747 or www. coloradocandlelight.com.

May 3-5 Destination Vacation Fasten your seat belt and prepare for take-off on a wacky, wild, and wonderful musical trip. The Rialto Theater Center, 228 E. 4th St., LV. 970-962-2000 or www.ci.loveland.co.us.

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May 3-11 James and the Giant Peach Presented by Debut Theatre Company.

Guided by a dash of magic, young James and his company embark on an epic adventure that crosses land and sea and air. The Lincoln Center, 417 W. Magnolia St, FC. 970-221-6730 or www.LCTIX. com or www.openstage.com.

May 10-19 To Kill A Mockingbird Presented by Moon Theatre Company.

This adaptation of Harper Lee’s iconic work will be a full-scale theatrical production, not to be missed! The Rialto Theater Center, 228 E. 4th St., LV. 970962-2000 or www.ci.loveland.co.us.

May 14-17 Spring High Plains History Festival Bring the whole fam! Centennial Village Museum, 1475 A St., GR. 970-350-9220 or www.greeleygov.com.

May 30 – August 25 Shrek: the Musical This Colorado state premiere is certain to be the biggest endeavor ever presented

by Midtown Arts Center. This show brings the hilarious story of everyone’s favorite ogre to life. Candlelight Dinner Playhouse, 4747 Market Place Dr., Johnstown, CO. 970-744-3747 or www. coloradocandlelight.com.

Wednesday, May 1 Bright Beginnings for Infants This program focuses on nurturing interactions, a healthy & safe environment and games to support brain development and emotional health. Poudre Valley Hospital, 1025 Garfield St., Suite A, FC. 10-11am. 970-495-7528 or www.pvhs.org.

Symphony Lecture To conclude Maestro Kenney’s 10th season, the Fort Collins Symphony brings back the mighty 9th Symphony of Beethoven. Old Town Public Library, 201 Peterson St., FC. Noon-1pm. 970-2216740 or www.PoudreLibraries.org.

Friday, May 3 Nobodies of Comedy These hilarious young comics are poised for comedy greatness! The Lincoln Center, 417 W. Magnolia St, FC. 7:30pm. 970221-6730 or www.LCTIX.com or www. openstage.com.

Noches en Familia Come and enjoy a time of stories, crafts, puppets, and songs in Spanish. Council Tree Library, 2733 Council Tree Ave., FC. 5-6pm. 970-221-6740 or www.

PoudreLibraries.org.

Harmony in the Round with Classical Guitarist Peter Fletcher Harmony Library, 4616 S. Shields St., FC. 7-8pm. 970-221-6740 or www.

PoudreLibraries.org.

Saturday, May 4 Masterworks 5 To conclude Maestro Kenney’s 10th season, the Fort Collins Symphony brings back the mighty 9th Symphony of Beethoven. The Lincoln Center, 417 W. Magnolia St, FC. 7:30pm. 970-221-6730 or www.LCTIX. com or www.openstage.com.

Maximize Your Sprinkler Efficiency Get better control of your landscape water use! Learn how to maintain, adjust, repair and understand your sprinkler system.

The Gardens on Spring Creek, 2145 Centre Ave., FC. 10am-Noon. 970-416-2486 or www.fcgov.com/gardens.

Expires: 5/30/13 RMP0513

Expires: 5/30/13 RMP0513

Above

Stand the Crowd Don’t get lost in the

digital divide!

to Advertise in :

Fort Collins, call Greg Hoffman at 689-6832 Lovland, Greeley and Windsor, call Scott Titterington at 980-9183.

With both print and digital mediums, RM Parent and RM Senior offer your business immediate credibility, distinctiveness and a visual presence that social media alone just can’t offer.

Our readers are educated, earn better than average incomes and own their own homes. Monthly print magazines are GROWING in popularity as consumers and small businesses look for comprehensive and in-depth coverage that only a locally-written and produced publication offers.

With local distribution in the school districts and at over 1,500 distribution locations, RM Parent and RM Senior connect with who you want to reach on an intimate level.

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Geology: Walk the Gangplank Hike to the landform and discover geological secrets of this beautiful landscape. Soapstone Prairie Natural Area, FC. 8am-Noon. 970-416-2815 or www. fcgov.com/naturalareas.

Skygazing Volunteers from the Northern Colorado Astronomical Society will provide telescopes for viewing the sky, and share their knowledge about stars, planets, galaxies, and more. Fossil Creek Reservoir Regional Open Space, FC. 8:30-10:30pm.

970-416-2815 or www.fcgov.com/ naturalareas. eBooks and Beyond Find out how to download items for free to your computer, tablet, eReader, and portable music player even when the library is closed. River of Life Fellowship, 3161 E. County Road 62e, Wellington.

9:30-11:30am. 970-221-6740 or www.

PoudreLibraries.org.

Pinterest Basics Learn the basics of Pinterest such as setting up an account, following favorite pinners (like the Library) and search for places to add. Harmony Library, 4616 S. Shields St., FC. 10am-Noon. 970-2216740 or www.PoudreLibraries.org.

Community Book Discussion Discuss The Boy in the Striped Pajamas.

Old Town Public Library, 201 Peterson St., FC. 3-4pm. 970-221-6740 or www.

PoudreLibraries.org.

GPO Connoisseur Concert #5: Music and Faith Union Colony Civic Center, 701 10th Ave., GR. 7:30pm. 970-356-5000 or www.ucstars.com.

Kentucky Derby Gala Union Colony Civic Center, 701 10th Ave., GR. 2pm. 970-356-5000 or www. ucstars.com.

Sunday, May 5 W.O.L.F. Sanctuary Benefit Concert: Songs of Survival The Sanctuary needs your support to recover from the 2012 High Park Fire.

The Lincoln Center, 417 W. Magnolia 36

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St, FC. 2pm. 970-221-6730 or www.

LCTIX.com or www.openstage.com.

Organic Gardening Ecology topics include compost production, mulching, plant propagation, insect friends and foes, crop rotations, companion-succession-inter-planting, seasonality, seed saving, toolstechniques, and more. Old Feed Store, 3612 W. County Rd. 54-G, Laporte, CO. Noon-4pm. 970-224-3247 or www. sustainablelivingassociation.org.

Animal Afternoon Join Larimer Animal People Partnership volunteers and their special story-loving critters. Old Town Public Library, 201 Peterson St., FC. 3-4pm. 970-221-6740 or www.PoudreLibraries.org.

Cinco de Mayo Skate Greeley Ice Haus, 900 8th Ave., GR. Noon-1:30pm. 970-350-9402 or www. greeleyicehaus.com.

Monday, May 6 Read & Seed: Seed Tape This program will help your child develop fine motor skills while encouraging creativity, curiosity, and exploration of the natural world. The Gardens on Spring Creek, 2145 Centre Ave., FC. 10-10:45am & 11-11:45am.

Ages 2-4 (with parent). 970-416-2486 or www.fcgov.com/gardens.

Anasazi of the American Southwest Richard Grant opens this three-part American Southwest series with his 90-minute slide show through Colorado and Arizona, focusing on Ancestral Puebloan Anasazi culture and archaeology. Council Tree Library, 2733 Council Tree Ave., FC. 7-8:30pm. 970221-6122 or www.PoudreLibraries.org.

Tuesday, May 7 Girl Talk (9-12yrs) For girls and their mothers to explore the physical and emotional changes of puberty. Poudre Canyon Room, Medical Center of the Rockies, 2500 Rocky Mountain Ave., LV. 6:30-8:30pm. 970495-7500 or www.pvhs.org.

Nutrition Roundtable This monthly group discusses different aspects of healthy lifestyles that are enhanced by incorporating good nutritional choices (without giving up your favorite foods). Poudre Valley Health System, 1025 Garfield St., Suite A, FC. 6-7:30pm. 970-495-8560 or www.pvhs. org.

Great Decisions: Myanmar Great Decisions is America’s largest discussion program on world affairs.

Old Town Public Library, 201 Peterson St., FC. 7pm. 970-221-6740 or www.

PoudreLibraries.org.

Wednesday, May 8 David Sedaris With sardonic wit and incisive social critiques, David Sedaris has become one of America’s pre-eminent humor writers.

The Lincoln Center, 417 W. Magnolia St, FC. 7:30pm. 970-221-6730 or www.

LCTIX.com or www.openstage.com.

Old Town Tunes with Hungrytown Check out this folk music duo. Old Town Public Library, 201 Peterson St., FC. 7-8pm. 970-221-6740 or www.

PoudreLibraries.org.

Bright Beginnings for One-Year-Olds This class explores how thinking and interactions change as your infant becomes a toddler on the go.

Special emphasis will be placed on the relationships between language, emotional and cognitive development.

Poudre Valley Hospital, 1025 Garfield St., Suite A, FC. 10-11am. 970-495-7528 or www.pvhs.org.

Thursday, May 9 Jams, Jellies & Fruit Preserves Learn how you can enjoy the delightful, fresh-picked taste of summer fruits all year long by making jams, jellies, preserves, marmalades, conserves and butters. Larimer County Extension 1525 Blue Spruce Dr., FC. 6-8pm. 970-224-3247 or www. sustainablelivingassociation.org.

So much MORE than your

NEIGHBORHOOD POOL!

ADDITIONAL SERVICES AND AMENITIES OFFERED AT FCC • FCC Club Fit • Rocky Mountain Physical Therapy on-site • Personal Trainers • Raquetball and Handball Courts • Salon Giorgio: Full Service Salon and Spa • Summer Camps for Kids • Over 30 Yoga Classes per week

• Kids’ Club House: Air Hockey, X boxes, foosball, and more!

• Kids’ Club Daycare • Swim Team • Swim Lessons • Spring Creek Trail access • Kiddie pool with family changing area nearby • Outdoor pool with a slide!

• Children’s playground • Sand Volleyball court

CONTACT MEMBERSHIP FOR MORE DETAILS

970-224-CLUB membership@fcc.net

www.fortcollinsclub.net

1307 East Prospect Road Fort Collins, CO 80525 Follow us on:

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Assistive Technology Demonstration Old Town Public Library, 201 Peterson St., FC. 1-4pm. 970-221-6697 or www.

PoudreLibraries.org.

Digital Photo Editing with Picasa you will learn how to edit, crop and organize photos. Plus, you’ll learn how to share digital photos with family and friends via email and the Internet.

Harmony Library, 4616 S. Shields St., FC. 6:30-8:30pm. 970-221-6740 or www.PoudreLibraries.org.

Friday, May 10 Simply Sinatra Starring Steve Lippia and his 10 piece big band. Union Colony Civic Center, 701 10th Ave., GR. 7:30pm. 970-356-5000 or www.ucstars.com.

Word Basics Learn the basics of word processing!

Harmony Library, 4616 S. Shields St., FC. 9-11am. 970-221-6740 or www.

PoudreLibraries.org.

Saturday, May 11 Legacy Night, Featuring Wade Davis Presented by Legacy and Trust. Come celebrate 20 years of keeping northern Colorado beautiful! The Lincoln Center, 417 W. Magnolia St, FC. 6:30pm. 970221-6730 or www.LCTIX.com or www. openstage.com.

Centennial Children’s Chorus Celebrating 30 years of medleys from Broadway with a special guest. The Lincoln Center, 417 W. Magnolia St, FC. 7pm. 970-221-6730 or www.LCTIX. com or www.openstage.com.

Correo Electronico En esta clase aprenderá a abrir y a utilizar su propio correo electrónico.

Old Town Public Library, 201 Peterson St., FC. 10am-Noon. 970-221-6697 or www.PoudreLibraries.org.

Chess @ Your Library Players of all ages and skill levels are welcome to join us for these informal drop-in chess games. Council Tree Library, 2733 Council Tree Ave., FC. 11am-1pm. 970-221-6740 or www.

PoudreLibraries.org.

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WOTBV: Worms of the Book Variety Teen Book Club Members will meet to discuss Life As We Knew It by Susan Beth Pfeffer.

Harmony Library, 4616 S. Shields St., FC. 11am-12:30pm. 970-221-6740 or www.PoudreLibraries.org.

Writing Workshop: Top Ten Great Writing Guidelines This workshop is a handy nuts-and-bolts list of craft tips writers of every level should have! Old Town Public Library, 201 Peterson St., FC. 1:30-4:30pm. 970221-6697 or www.PoudreLibraries.org.

BabyCare 101 Prepares expectant parents in the basic care of newborns for the first few months. Topics include signs of illness, safety, development, and parent adjustment. Poudre Valley Hospital, Westbridge Medical Suites, 1st Floor Conference Rm., 1107 S. Lemay Ave., FC. 9am-Noon. 970-495-7500 or www. pvhs.org.

Sunday, May 12 The Whole Enchilada Pops Presented by the Foothills Pops Band.

Enjoy fresh arrangements of familiar tunes. The Lincoln Center, 417 W. Magnolia St, FC. 7pm. 970-221-6730 or www.

LCTIX.com or www.openstage.com.

Asian Fest The whole family will be immersed in the cultures of Asia and the Pacific Islands. Old Town Public Library, 201 Peterson St., FC. 1-5pm. 970-221-6697 or www.PoudreLibraries.org.

Animal Afternoon Join Larimer Animal People Partnership volunteers and their special story-loving critters. Council Tree Library, 2733 Council Tree Ave., FC. 3-4pm. 970221-6740 or www.PoudreLibraries.org.

Mother’s Day Skate Greeley Ice Haus, 900 8th Ave., GR. Noon-1:30pm. 970-350-9402 or www. greeleyicehaus.com.

Monday, May 13 Read & Seed: Nature Prints This program will help your child develop fine motor skills while encouraging creativity, curiosity, and exploration of the natural world. The Gardens on Spring Creek, 2145 Centre Ave., FC. 10-10:45am & 11-11:45am.

Ages 2-4 (with parent). 970-416-2486 or www.fcgov.com/gardens.

Tuesday, May 14 Medicare 101 This class will offer an overview of Medicare benefits, supplemental insurance, Medicare Advantage Plans, prescription drug plans, preventative services, and how Medicare works with employer health insurance. Poudre Valley Health System, Greeley Medical Clinic, 1900 16th St., GR. 6-7:30pm. 970-495-8560 or www.pvhs.org.

Kevin Cook: Colorado Birds Great stories of life and living. Old Town Public Library, 201 Peterson St., FC. Noon -1pm. 970-221-6740 or www.

PoudreLibraries.org.

Kids’ Club Tuesday This month is Leave No Trace, with REI. Old Town Public Library, 201 Peterson St., FC. 4-5:30pm. 970-2216740 or www.PoudreLibraries.org.

Blogging Basics You will learn what a blog is, how to create and maintain a blog, how to post text and images, how to link to other people’s blogs and more. Harmony Library, 4616 S. Shields St., FC. 6:30-8:30pm. 970-221-6740 or www.

PoudreLibraries.org.

International Night: South Korea An excellent introduction to South Korea. Old Town Public Library, 201 Peterson St., FC. 7-8pm. 970-221-6740 or www.PoudreLibraries.org.

Wednesday, May 15 Rocky Mountain Raptors: Migration Madness Celebrate the returning of migrant raptors to their summer breeding grounds. Council Tree Library, 2733 Council Tree Ave., FC. 6:30-7:30pm. 970221-6740 or www.PoudreLibraries.org.

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Money Matters: Good Car, Good Buy? Or Goodbye?

Learn about your options; what type of vehicle is right for you, ownership costs, how to research resources and more.

Old Town Public Library, 201 Peterson St., FC. 7-8pm. 970-221-6740 or www.

PoudreLibraries.org.

Bright Beginnings for Infants This program focuses on nurturing interactions, a healthy & safe environment and games to support brain development and emotional health.

Poudre Valley Hospital, 1025 Garfield St., Suite A, FC. 10-11am. 970-495-7528 or www.pvhs.org.

Thursday, May 16 Hearing and Balance Discuss hearing and inner ear issues and their connection to dizziness and balance. Chilson Senior Center, 700 E 4th St., LV. 2-3:30pm. 970-495-8560 or www.pvhs.org.

Genealogy Program: Beyond the Census, The Non-Population Schedules An overview of the non-population schedules between 1850-1880. These include mortality, veterans, slave, agriculture, and manufacturers’ schedules. Old Town Public Library, 201 Peterson St., FC. 6:30-8:45pm. 970221-6740 or www.PoudreLibraries.org.

Friday, May 17 Valentine City Chorus: A Great Day for the Irish An A Cappella barbershop harmony show. This is a collection of favorite traditional Irish songs. The Lincoln Center, 417 W. Magnolia St, FC. 7pm.

970-221-6730 or www.LCTIX.com or www.openstage.com.

Let’s Dance Presented by High Country Conservatory of Dance. This will WOW the audience with its power, energy and excitement. The Lincoln Center, 417 W. Magnolia St, FC. 7pm. 970-221-6730 or www.LCTIX.com or www.openstage.com.

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Excel Basics Excel is a spreadsheet program used for automating calculations, creating charts, forms, and more. Learn the basics in this class. Harmony Library, 4616 S. Shields St., FC. 9-11am. 970-221-6740 or www.

PoudreLibraries.org.

Saturday, May 18 Spring Showcase Presented by High Country Conservatory of Dance. This event will feature dancers of all ages, levels & dance styles. The Lincoln Center, 417 W. Magnolia St, FC. 11am & 6pm. 970221-6730 or www.LCTIX.com or www. openstage.com.

Microsoft Publisher: Basic Canyon Ridge Baptist Church, Bellvue.

11am-1pm. 970-221-6740 or www.

PoudreLibraries.org.

Teen IRS: Interesting Reader Society Meeting Join this special group of young adults in grades 6-12 who meet monthly to talk books, movies, music, and other topics of interest to teens. Harmony Library, 4616 S. Shields St., FC. 11am-1pm. 970-2216740 or www.PoudreLibraries.org.

One Book 4 Colorado All 4-year-olds are invited to join us in a celebration of the book that Colorado has voted for. Kids are invited to bring their tricycle/bicycle for a Tour de Four parade. Old Town Public Library, 201 Peterson St., FC. 2-4pm. 970-221-6740 or www.PoudreLibraries.org.

Movie Night: The Karate Kid (1984) Ralph Macchio and Noriyuki “Pat” Morita star in this warm and wonderful film about the perennial 98-pound weakling who turns the tables on his tormentors. Old Town Public Library, 201 Peterson St., FC. 7-9pm. 970-2216740 or www.PoudreLibraries.org.

Groovin’ Presented by Mountain Dance. Check out the dance moves of this competition troupe!

The Lincoln Center, 417 W. Magnolia St, FC. 7pm. 970-221-6730 or www.LCTIX. com or www.openstage.com.

Dance Dynamics presents Dancing thru the Decades Union Colony Civic Center, 701 10th Ave., GR. 6:30pm. 970-356-5000 or www.ucstars.com.

Natural First-Aid for Accidents & Injuries Focus will be on the principles of naturopathic medicine, employing homeopathy, herbs, physical medicine and more for acute care regarding accidents and injuries. Location TBD, FC. 9am-1:30pm. 970-224-3247 or www.sustainablelivingassociation.org.

Sunday, May 19 Game Day @ Your Library Play a board or card game from our collection or bring a favorite from home.

Old Town Public Library, 201 Peterson St., FC. 1-5pm. 970-221-6740 or www.

PoudreLibraries.org.

Monday, May 20 Bright Beginnings for Infants This program focuses on nurturing interactions, a healthy & safe environment and games to support brain development and emotional health.

McKee Medical Center, 2000 N. Boise Ave., LV. 11:15am-12:15pm. 970-4957528 or www.pvhs.org.

Read & Seed: Zinnias This program will help your child develop fine motor skills while encouraging creativity, curiosity, and exploration of the natural world. The Gardens on Spring Creek, 2145 Centre Ave., FC. 10-10:45am & 11-11:45am.

Ages 2-4 (with parent). 970-416-2486 or www.fcgov.com/gardens.

Money Matters: Good Car, Good Buy? Or Goodbye?

Learn about your options; what type of vehicle is right for you, ownership costs, how to research resources and more.

Harmony Library, 4616 S. Shields St., FC. 7-8pm. 970-221-6740 or www.

PoudreLibraries.org.

Tuesday, May 21 New York, New York Presented by Mountain Dance.

Features all ages and all styles of dance. The Lincoln Center, 417 W. Magnolia St, FC. 6:30pm. 970-2216730 or www.LCTIX.com or www. openstage.com.

Bright Beginnings for Infants This program focuses on nurturing interactions, a healthy & safe environment and games to support brain development and emotional health. Medical Center of the Rockies, 2500 Rocky Mountain Ave., LV. Noon-1pm. 970-495-7528 or www. pvhs.org.

Improv 4 Tweens Have fun playing improv games designed to bring out your inner actor.

Council Tree Library, 2733 Council Tree Ave., FC. 4-5:30pm. 970-2216740 or www.PoudreLibraries.org.

Your Library 24/7 Learn what the library has to offer even when the Library doors are closed. Harmony Library, 4616 S. Shields St., FC. 7-8:30pm. 970-2216740 or www.PoudreLibraries.org.

Wednesday, May 22 New York, New York Presented by Mountain Dance.

Features all ages and all styles of dance. The Lincoln Center, 417 W. Magnolia St, FC. 6:30pm. 970-2216730 or www.LCTIX.com or www. openstage.com.

Bright Beginnings for Two-Year-Olds This class explores positive guidance strategies and how to provide a supportive environment that promotes early literacy, brain development, and a healthy/safe environment during the active two’s. Poudre Valley Hospital, 1025 Garfield St., Suite A, FC. 1011am. 970-495-7528 or www.pvhs.org.

Natural Childbirth: Coping Strategies for Pain Management Strategies for labor and delivery to include relaxation, breathing, visualization, movement, or massage and use of tools such as birthing balls, aromatherapy, or rebozos. Poudre Canyon Room, Medical Center of the Rockies, 2500 Rocky Mountain Ave., LV. 7-9:30pm. 970-495-7500 or www.pvhs. org.

Friday, May 24 History Comes Alive: Walt Disney Join Walt Disney (portrayed by Chautauqua scholar and actor David Skipper) for an evening of delightful nostalgia, as he reminisces about the creation of the most popular animated character or all time, Mickey Mouse, and the building of a motion picture and entertainment empire. Harmony Library, 4616 S. Shields St., FC. 7-8:30pm. 970221-6740 or www.PoudreLibraries.org.

Sunday, May 26 Animal Afternoon Join Larimer Animal People Partnership volunteers and their special story-loving critters. Harmony Library, 4616 S. Shields St., FC. 3-4pm. 970-221-6740 or www.PoudreLibraries.org.

Monday, May 27 Read & Seed: Frogs This program will help your child develop fine motor skills while encouraging creativity, curiosity, and exploration of the natural world. The Gardens on Spring Creek, 2145 Centre Ave., FC. 10-10:45am & 11-11:45am.

Ages 2-4 (with parent). 970-416-2486 or www.fcgov.com/gardens.

Tuesday, May 28 Nutrition Roundtable This monthly group discusses different aspects of healthy lifestyles that are enhanced by incorporating good nutritional choices (without giving up your favorite foods). Poudre Valley Health System, 1025 Garfield St., Suite A, FC. 6-7:30pm. 970-495-8560 or www.pvhs.org.

Wednesday, May 29 Author Abigail Tarttelin Visits Hear about her new book “Golden Boy”.

Old Town Public Library, 201 Peterson St., FC. 6-8pm. 970-221-6740 or www.

PoudreLibraries.org.

Kindles @ Your Library In this class, we will show you how to download library eBooks to your Kindle anywhere, any time. Harmony Library, 4616 S. Shields St., FC. 7-8:30pm. 970221-6740 or www.PoudreLibraries.org.

Thursday, May 30 Summer Salads: Cooking Class Have fun with these homemade salad dressing recipes sure to give summer salads a flavor boost. North Colorado Medical Center, 1801 16th St., GR. 9:30-10:30am. 970‑3784044 or www.BannerHealth.com/ NCMCFamilyLifeEdu. Friday, May 31 Faust Based on Johann Wolfgang von Goethe’s ancient legend, composer Charles Gounod’s grand music creates the perfect canvas on which to present larger-than-life characters who are entangled in a battle for the highest stakes possible: the human soul. The Lincoln Center, 417 W. Magnolia St, FC. 7:30pm. 970-221-6730 or www.LCTIX. com or www.openstage.com.

Elevate Presented by TedX Front Range Watch 17 speakers, demonstrators, and performers in these TED talks, “ideas worth spreading.” The Rialto Theater Center, 228 E. 4th St., LV. 1-5pm. 970962-2000 or www.ci.loveland.co.us.

Movie: The Boy in the Striped Pajamas This unique film tells the story of the Holocaust through the eyes of eight-year-old Bruno whose father is a Nazi commander at Auschwitz. Old Town Public Library, 201 Peterson St., FC. 7-9pm. 970-221-6740 or www.

PoudreLibraries.org.

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time out

Impossible beauty

Modeling confidence and self-worth challenges this mother L e a Hans o n

O

ur society teaches girls from a very young age that beauty and looks are more important than anything else.

Even worse, that being told you’re nice looking is the highest praise one can receive. Since my daughter’s birth, two and a half years ago, it seems the only thing people can conjure up to say to a little girl is, “You’re so cute!” or “Don’t you look pretty today?” Ack. Maybe I’m over thinking it. But, I’m not.

Ever since my daughter was a wrinkly infant, I’ve been telling her she was sweet and gentle and kind and fun and smart and a nice girl. I’ve paid little to no attention about what she wears save to compliment her on her stellar ability to dress herself. Similarly, I’ve been making a point not to say negative things about myself and the way I look.

My daughter will learn soon enough that girls are “supposed” to be negative about themselves. She doesn’t need to learn it from me.

Here I am, doing the right thing.

Teaching my daughter through my actions that her personality and wit are more valuable than her looks. But then a bomb drops. My friend forwards an article to me and a few other moms with daughters with the subject line, “Ugh, why is it so hard?” It was a link to a Huffington Post article by Amanda King titled, “I am Beautiful, Girls.”

King writes, “I don’t want my girls to be children who are perfect and then, when they start to feel like women, they remember how I thought of myself as ugly and so they will be ugly too… ‘Look at me, girls!’ I say to them. ‘Look at how beautiful I am. I feel really beautiful, today.’”

So, evidently just refraining from fat talk and self-hating comments isn’t enough. I can’t just NOT say, “Ugh, I feel fat today,” I have to also say, “I feel beautiful!” Are you already exhausted? I am.

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If you can’t see me, I just laid my head on the table.

It’s not that I don’t like the way I look. Most days I think I look perfectly fine. I’m tall (an envied trait, I’ve learned), of average weight, and have straight, white teeth. I dress in frugal, reasonably fashionable clothing that fits my body. I realize I’m not ugly. I would also like to look different, as most of us would.

So, here I am, trying to teach con-

of appearance, honesty can be a challenge.

I’m not comfortable running around, willy-nilly saying, “I look great! Look how great I look!” But, it’s up to me to find a way to compliment myself—out loud—so my daughter learns to be confident in her appearance and confident in herself. See? Exhausting! I just moved from having my head on the table to actually lying on the floor. I’m not getting up.

But I have to get up. My daughter

fidence and self-worth to my daughter that doesn’t revolve around looks and clothes. Here’s the deal, appearance matters. We know it does. The way we present ourselves to others can illustrate we are confident (or not) and that we take pride (or not) in the way we look and the way we are. And, dress codes are real; we wear a suit to an interview and a swimming suit to the pool for a reason. But, for me, finding the balance between teaching that appearance matters—but not more than anything—is very difficult.

I value authenticity. I strive to be honest while appropriate. On the subject

seeing me lie on the floor in desperation is as bad or worse than hearing me say, “Ugh, look at this big butt!” Even harder, I feel the responsibility to do these things as though they are easy and no big deal when in fact they are extraordinarily difficult.

King wrote, “I want [my daughters] to become women who remember me modeling impossible beauty. Modeling beauty in the face of a mean world, a scary world, a world where we don’t know what to make of ourselves.”

Impossible beauty? Come on, this isn’t me… or is it?

family

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