RM Parent May 2014 by RM Publishing

MAY 2014 â&#x20AC;˘ RMPARENT.COM

Summer

reading Trails to

the north

Attention

disorders

Center

yourself

Family garden

vision

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MAY 2014

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

Our speedy days—take a moment or three to bring it down

women’s health . . . . . . . . . 8 Power moments—quick ways to center yourself

Special Section Summertime Summer time Explore the possibilities MAY 2014 • RMPARENT .COM

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

Family activities . . . . . . . 10 Discover the north territories—Red Mountain, Soapstone and Big Hole hikes

Healthy living . . . . . . . . . 12

ADVERT

Harvest more than just produce—include the whole family in creating a vision for your garden

Community news . . . . . . 14 Spring into the season with healthy choices, preparedness, rebates and blooms

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

Going gluten-free—What it is and why it causes allergies

Calendar . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 0

Events and activities for parents, kids and families

Time out . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 0

Welcoming “No!”—growing up to be The Boss when it matters

School District News Thompson School District. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27 Knowledge Bowl teams advance, Boettcher Scholar named, Rotary Club’s KidsPak program, K99 Teacher Tuesday award, Harlem Globetrotter visits Van Buren, Read-A-thon

Poudre School District. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30 Volunteer enjoys seeing community come together, calendar of events, Muscles Alive! program visits Lesher, laptop trainings scheduled

Greeley-Evans District 6. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34

ISING S UPPLEM

Features 20

Attentionrelated disorders on the rise

Inattention. Distraction. Social struggles. These are the common denominators of a trio of neuro-developmental disorders—ADHD, autism and Asperger’s Syndrome. Yet it’s not the only thing they have in common. Another is that all three are being diagnosed at increasing rates.

24 Ra lly for reading One proven way to engage kids in year-round learning yet still allow them space to explore the world around them in less-structured ways than classrooms often provide is by encouraging them to read. They can experience adventures and journeys while organically practicing the skills they learn during the school year and connecting that learning to real life.

Ground broken on Prairie Heights Middle School, Boettcher Scholars, United Way honors principal, office manager named Classified Employee of the Year

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

ABOUT THE COVER: Quinn, 5, likes to golf, bowl, swim and launch rockets. Photo by Cheri Schonfeld, schonfeldphotography.com.

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ENT

perspective Our speedy days

Take a moment or three to bring it down

he less time I have to go fishing the more I need to go fishing. Right? Or biking, or walking or a dozen other things that take me out of my speedy little world and give me a chance at a bigger view. Lynn Nichols has a story on Page 8 called Power Moments about how we can take little time outs from our busy day to calm down and regain a sense of balance. She has several ideas from mindful sitting to stretching to breathing exercises. I just think she’s really on the right track. For me though, half the battle is remembering to take that minute or three several times during the day. I know I’m getting wound up and the last thing that pops into my head is that I need to just sit quietly for a while. But when I do remember, it helps add some perspective to my day. I think the key comes down to speediness...busy-ness. I know we all wake up in the morning and our alarm clocks might as well say, “on your mark, get set, go.” It feels as though every day is just a race to get through and then we fall into bed (and probably have a hard time falling asleep) and then get up and do it again. So I’m not talking about being busy, per se. I’m talking about how we approach being busy...that’s the speediness part. The part where we feel like we’re spinning-top clowns who never get a chance to rest. I think it’s good to be efficient and get a lot done. Is it possible to do it without the speedy approach? That thing that makes us feel as though we’re rushing, rushing, rushing to be late to one more thing today? I think that’s where Lynn’s tips come in. Could we be just as busy, but not have that crazy feeling all the time? I started a regular meditation practice a few years ago. I know, jump on the bandwagon since mindfulness seems to be the new fad, except that it’s an ancient thing that seems to be being discovered here...especially since scientific studies are demonstrating its effects. I think the main thing that sitting for 20 minutes every day does, letting thoughts float in and letting them float right back out, is that I’ve gotten a lot better at letting things go. You might say that I’ve been training in letting go. Just as you might spend time training to make your body stronger and more flexible, turns out you can do the same with your mind. And it appears that the brain continues to be able to change...always, not just when you’re young. So I got that going for me, which is nice. Thanks, Scott

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MAY 2014 • Volume 18, Issue 12 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, Kyle Moyer COVER PHOTO Cheri Shonfeld, schonfeldphotography.com CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Lea Hanson, Richard Keller, Kim Lipker, Lynn Nichols, Kim Sharpe

ROCKY MOUNTAIN PUBLISHING 825 Laporte Avenue, Fort Collins, CO 80521 Voice 221-9210 Fax 221-8556 editor@rockymountainpub.com www.RMParent.com Rocky Mountain Parent magazine is published monthly by Rocky Mountain Publishing, Inc. Publication of this paper does not consitute an endorsement of the products or services advertised. RMP reserves the right to refuse any advertisement for any reason. The opinions expressed by contributors or writers do not necessarily reflect the opinions of Rocky Mountain Publishing. ©2014 Rocky Mountain Publishing, Inc. All rights reserved. Reproduction without express written permission is prohibited.

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women’s health

Power moments Quick ways to center yourself

L ynn U . N i c h o ls

s moms, we often put ourselves last. Even the dishes and laundry hold weight over taking care of ourselves. Yet ignoring an ever-growing list of daily tasks is impractical. After all, not getting things done only adds stress on top of current stress. With Mother’s Day coming up, take a moment for yourself. While you might not have an hour to give to yourself, there’s a good chance you have a few minutes here and there throughout the day. Believe it or not, these small breaks can become a garden of tranquility and help you realign with your spirit and calm. Here are a few ways to create power moments. Get a mind full When you are feeling overwhelmed, stop what you are doing and go sit outside or somewhere calm. It’s time to get out of your head and connect in the current moment. Notice what your senses are telling you, one by one. What do you hear? Birds, traffic, wind chimes? What do you see? Sky, trees, flowers? Are there smells around you? What sensations are you feeling within your body? If the above exercise isn’t appealing, try this: get a favorite fresh piece of fruit and sit down to eat it. Be aware of each incremental moment as you open the peel, break apart the sections, and bite in. Feel the juice and flavor fill your mouth. Eat your treat methodically, as if you are experiencing it for the first time. Being mindful is simply being in the present moment with intention. Doing so often creates a calming, grounded effect. Find your center If your kids or coworkers are bickering and you find yourself getting worked up, try this centering technique. Go somewhere private. Sit and take a deep breath 8

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in, letting it fill up your abdomen. Concentrate on the center of your core—the place below the belly button. As you breathe, keep your chest still. Exhale slowly and repeat. This time imagine the air you are breathing streaming down your legs and entering your toes. On the next deep breath, feel it going down your arms to your fingers. As you breathe, focus on a calming scene, word or phrase, like “ocean” or “All is well” or “This too shall pass,” or “I can do this.” After a few minutes of this deep breathing and positive thinking you will likely feel calm enough to figure a healthy solution to the issue at hand—and have lowered your blood pressure as well. If this doesn’t do it, you may need to release negative energy. Close your eyes and picture your negative energy as a big, orange fireball. See yourself adding all your negative thoughts and stressors to the ball. When you are done, thrust the fire ball from your body and watch it travel far, far away. Stress is energy, and releasing this energy will bring relief.

Get down on the floor When we are stressed or overwhelmed, our bodies hold the stress and release it through aches and pain and fatigue. Muscular movement helps us satisfy the fight-or-flight response that our bodies shift into when stressed. Try a favorite low-impact movement that you may have learned at a Pilates, Yoga or Tai Chi class, or simply stretch your legs, arms, back and neck muscles with gentle floor exercises. As you stretch, concentrate on your breathing, feel the sensation in your muscles, and be aware of your body against the floor. Some women prefer fast movements to release stress, like doing jumping jacks, dancing, jogging in place or running stairs. The result is the same in the end, so honor what works best for you. If you don’t have an hour to spare for yourself, take a few power moments throughout the day. View it as a secret pact you make with yourself. Your kids, husband, friends, boss, and even that pile of laundry may think they are first in your life, but you will know the truth.

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family activities

Discover the north territories Red Mountain, Soapstone and Big Hole hikes Kim Lipker

he Soapstone Prairie Natural Area is 28 square miles of remote, uncrowded territory just waiting for families to visit and make discoveries all-day long. The diverse and rugged scenery is something you usually only see in old Western movies: Large expanses of yellow prairie, red mountains, small canyons, tumbleweeds, and views of snow-capped mountains. In 2004 Larimer County purchased 13,500 acres with $7.85 million dollars of Colorado lottery funds and $1.85 million of local sales taxes. The neighboring city of Cheyenne added to it with a 2005 purchase of the northern end from the Nature Conservancy for $525,000. Cheyenne’s contribution is called “The Big Hole.” Once a private ranch the acres here were open to the public in 2009. Fifty miles of trails provide recreational opportunities in an area that not only includes Soapstone Prairie and The Big Hole but also the adjacent Red Mountain Open Space. Biking, hiking and horseback riding are all popular pursuits in the area’s remote terrain. Remember to check the rules and regulations before you drive all the way there. It is quite a trek just to arrive at your chosen trailhead. One very important regulation is that no dogs are allowed and Natural Area rangers ask that you leave them at home: “To help protect wildlife, no dogs are allowed – even in cars.” Equestrians must use the South Parking Lot and must clean up after their horses in the parking lot. Rangers also ask that you use certified weed-free hay to help limit the spread of invasive weeds: “Feed your horses weed-free forage before you ride here, to help ensure this prairie remains in its natural condition. Ask your local feed store for more information.” 10

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Rangers say that the extremes and remoteness of Soapstone Prairie takes visitors by surprise. Rapid changes in weather and limited cell phone coverage help ensure a true wilderness experience, but can also contribute to problems if you are unprepared. Rangers who patrol the site have assisted visitors with everything from riders who were thrown from their horses to hikers who suffered heat exposure. There was also an inordinate amount of people who experienced a longerthan-planned outing due to underestimating the scale of the property and unfamiliarity with the trail system. A gentle reminder to all is that emergency response to Soapstone Prairie visitors can take up to an hour or more. With that in mind, start early in the day, plan for the weather and carry a trail map. Rangers advise navigating the property by making note of the lettered trail intersection markers. The junctions are marked and from time to time there are you-are-here maps on post tops. Let someone at home know your travel plans and your estimated return time. Bring more than enough water,

food and clothing. Cell phone service is not reliable, but there is an emergency call box at the entrance station. Rattlesnakes are common at Soapstone Prairie, so stay on established trails and if you see one, let it move off on its own and give it plenty of clearance. Weather moves quickly here and rangers say that conditions at Soapstone Prairie are often harsher than weather in Fort Collins. Exposure to the elements can lead to heat illness or exhaustion. Wind, sun and exertion can quickly dehydrate. Water is not available here, so be sure to replace electrolytes with appropriate food and water.

Finding the trailhead Directions: From Fort Collins, travel north on State Highway 1/Terry Lake Road. Turn left (toward Waverly) on County Road 15. Travel north and turn right on Rawhide Flats Road and take it six miles to the entrance station. For more information go to www.fcgov. com/naturalareas/finder/soapstone; www. larimer.org/naturalresources/red_mountain. cfm; www.cheyennecity.org

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healthy living

Harvest more than just produce Include the whole family in creating a vision for your garden L e a Hans o n

ardening with kids not only provides the tangible benefits of exercise and fresh food, it also fosters communication, builds strong relationships, and creates an opportunity to work toward a common goal. When it comes to your home garden, half the fun is in the planning. Alison O’Connor, Horticulture Agent for CSU Extension in Larimer County, says garden planning is crucial: “If you plan to involve the entire family in gardening, the planning should involve everyone, too.” As parents, you’re the experts when it comes to creating a garden that matches your family’s personalities and needs. But, involving kids in the process of garden planning can generate interest and a lifelong passion for nature. A great first step is to peruse gardening books together. Encourage kids to be inquisitive by discussing and critiquing photographs and illustrated garden plans. When creating a vision consider cause and effect. “The most important thing is to grow something of use; make sure it has some sort of appeal long term,” O’Connor says. Edible crops, for example, are great for kids because they can directly see where food comes from and how it can be transformed into something they love to eat. A flower garden is a great option if your child is interested in making bouquets. Once you’ve created a vision, start to map it out. Use poster board and various art materials to begin the planning. Map out the plot together by drawing pictures of plants and/or writing their names on the poster board plot map. Kids can practice measuring to scale—or simply get a sense of the concept—by drawing a scaled-grid of your allotted space. When creating a vision for a garden, it is not uncommon for kids to

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think of overly-dramatic concepts. Castles, waterfalls, and ponds are frequent requests. While these types of additions may be unreasonable for your home garden, it is important to hear these ideas and later consider how to create small or alternative versions. For example, 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. 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. Having a wellplanned garden will not only allow your family a more enjoyable season in maintenance but also later, in harvesting.

Involving the kids Let them choose Letting kids select which plants they’d like to grow creates instant buy-in. Most often, plants and foods they recognize, such as cucumbers, carrots, or pumpkins are the easiest options.

Give them ownership O’Connor says, “Get special, child-sized tools for your kids. Even little things like having their own shovel and spade can teach kids the act of ownership and remind them this is something they’re investing in.”

Big seeds for small hands Plants with large seeds are easiest for small hands to sow. Plants with large seeds that fare well in northern Colorado include beans, peas, and pumpkins.

Tweak their interest Tweak your child’s interest with seeds you know they can be excited about. For example, although radish seeds are small and fewer kids love to eat them, they offer almost instant growth and harvest.

Designate a spot O’Connor says, “If you can designate a spot for the child, that’s a great approach. The child can choose his own plants as well as take ownership in the caring and maintenance.” This could be a corner within the larger garden or a separate space altogether; even a few pots on the patio can be special and meaningful for younger children.

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community news

Quality of life updates

Spring into the season with healthy choices, preparedness, rebates and blooms K I M S H A RPE

Weld strives to be healthiest Colorado county by 2020 Weld County individuals and families are improving their well-being by eating healthier and increasing their physical activity levels with support and encouragement from the Make TODAY Count! campaign. The campaign is a three-year effort to make Weld County the healthiest Colorado county by 2020. It encourages people to make small, simple changes every day toward becoming healthier. Individuals can sign up to “take the challenge” by filling out an online pledge form (which enters them into a drawing to win a $25 VISA gift card) and visiting the www.maketodaycount.org website and calendar for ideas about making healthy food, increasing activity and lifestyle choices. People also can volunteer to help with community events and outreach. The campaign is coordinated by the Northern Colorado Health Alliance, powered by a growing collaboration of individuals, agencies and businesses throughout the region, and supported with grants from Kaiser Permanente and The Colorado Health Foundation. Call 970-346-2506 or visit the website for more information. Bike and byways map now available online If NoCo residents are interested in bicycling more as a way to recreate and be fit, an online resource might make that easier. The Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) recently made its Bike and Byways Map available via a mobile application, providing instant information to bicyclists. CDOT’s hard copy of the map currently provides roadway data such as shoulder widths and traffic volumes, but the new electronic version significantly expands the amount of available information. 14

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“Along with all the information that’s available in the hard copy of the map, the new app offers lots of options we think bicyclists will appreciate such as where bike shops, restaurants and welcome centers are located…It also includes directional information, allowing cyclists to request specific point-topoint directions,” says CDOT Bicycling Program Manager Betsy Jacobsen.

In addition, the new app has the ability to show street views, so users unfamiliar with an area or roadway can see the actual road and determine if it fits their cycling abilities. Plus, it provides alerts such as road closures and available detour routes. The app is available for download from a desktop, tablet or mobile phone at http://dtdapps.coloradodot.info/bike. Loveland residents may be eligible for special tax rebate City of Loveland residents may be eligible to receive a rebate for food and utility sales taxes paid in 2013 if their

households meet the income and family requirements set by HUD and the Loveland City Council. The requirements are listed on the application. Applications are available at the following locations:

• House of Neighborly Service, 565 N. Cleveland Avenue • City of Loveland, 500 E. Third Street, in either the City Clerk’s Office or the Utility

Billing Office (on the rack in front of the cashier) • Loveland Public Library, 300 N. Adams Avenue

They also can be downloaded and printed from www.cityofloveland.org/ index.aspx?page=1815. Rebate applications must be submitted by May 31, 2014. They can be hand delivered to the House of Neighborly Service, 565 N. Cleveland Avenue. They also can be mailed to City of Loveland, FSTRP, 500 E. Third Street, Loveland, CO 80537. For more information, please call 970-612-0839.

Estes urges residents to prepare for spring runoff In the Estes Valley, spring runoff typically starts in April and peaks in June. Each spring there is a chance that warmer temperatures and higher- than-average snow packs will result in higher flows and rising water levels along streams and rivers throughout the area. Sudden, prolonged warm spells combined with heavy rains increase the chances of localized flooding. The 2013 flood changed local rivers and streams—some channels are wider and deeper and can carry more water; others are shallower and narrower and can carry less water. The ground also remains saturated from last year’s rains. While local floodplain managers cannot predict the effects of the upcoming runoff, there is potential for heavy flows, so the Town is preparing public property by clearing debris and excess sediments where needed. Private property owners along rivers and streams should consider doing the same. The Town of Estes Park encourages residents to reach out to their neighbors and work together to address potential problems. The Town and River Coalition teams are available for technical guidance. Some actions private property owners can take to protect property include: • Cutting down unstable trees (leave stump and roots in place) that could fall and block water flow along the channel or at downstream bridges and culverts. • Selectively removing problematic debris from river. • Applying quick-growing seed mixes and other ground cover crops. • Preventing or reducing flood water damage using sand bags or hydro barriers. Bags should be placed adjacent to buildings to divert water around buildings and stabilize banks, not in the river channels. Local hardware and lumber stores sell sand bags and hydro barriers. For more information on filling and using sandbags, visit www.larimer.org/ flooding2013.

Note that permits are required for all work in the floodplain; they are available to residents with property within the Town limits by calling the

Town of Estes Park’s Building Safety Division at 970-577-3726. Floodplain Manager Will Birchfield is available to provide mitigation advice during the permit process. Residents also might consider purchasing flood insurance for peace of mind. Because the Town of Estes Park participates in the National Flood Insurance Program, all properties are eligible to hold flood insurance, not just those that are required to hold flood insurance by insurance companies. Property owners can purchase flood insurance through their own agent or at www. Floodsmart.gov. New policies have a 30day waiting period before they go into effect, so the time to purchase is now. Additionally, residents and property owners can get involved in helping plan for flood-related issues. The Fall River and Fish Creek Coalitions have formed to administer stream corridor master plan funding from the Colorado Water Conservation Board, with the ultimate goal of building resiliency in the Estes community, economy and river systems. Master Plan meetings are ongoing and include information on both emergency and long-term efforts to protect and restore watersheds. Coalition meetings air

live at www.estes.org/videos and on local cable television channel 12. For more information please visit www.fallriver coalition.org, www.facebook.com/ fallrivercoalition and www.facebook.com/ fishcreekcoalition, or contact the Town of Estes Park’s Community Development Department by phone at 970-577-3721 or by email at planning@estes.org. Fort Collins blossoms The Gardens on Spring Creek in Fort Collins is hosting its annual Spring Plant Sale. Home gardeners and individuals shopping for a bloomin’ Mother’s Day gift can select from many standard and unique varieties of annuals, vegetable starts, perennials and succulents. Customers are asked to bring their own carrying box to transport their purchases to help the Gardens conserve resources. Shopping hours are: Friday, May 9, 3-6pm (members only), Saturday, May 10, 9am-4pm, and Sunday, 12noon-5pm. Plants are grown by the Gardens on Spring Creek and students of Colorado State University and Front Range Community College. Sales proceeds benefit horticulture programs at each organization. Visit www.fcgov.com/gardens for more information. RMPARENT

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nutrition their food; hence the reason you may see a final line on the package that reads ‘Contains nuts, eggs, soy and gluten.’ Northern Colorado natural foods markets like Fort Collins’ Whole Foods, The Food Co-op or Natural Grocers and Loveland’s The Crunchy Grocer may have more detailed food labels denoting gluten-based products. As for standard pastas, breads and cereals–consider them off limits.

Going gluten free

What it is and why it causes allergies R i c h a r d K e ll e r

ood allergies are trending these days, and not in a good way. Millions of children in America have reactions to dairy, egg, nuts and soy. One example is an aversion to gluten. One in every 133 Americans suffers from Celiac disease or gluten sensitivity, which prevents them from digesting gluten or wheat products. Even a small portion of food containing gluten can cause afflicted children to develop extreme abdominal pains, an inability to grow or gain weight, anemia or depression. Following is some information on gluten and what can be done to provide necessary nutrition to your entire family. What is gluten? Gluten is a naturally forming protein found in the tissues that surround the wheat seeds. People may be sensitive to gluten products; however, the presence of gluten in the raw wheat helps 16

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nourish plant embryos and maintains the elasticity of dough made from flour. Products containing gluten tend to be fortified with other nutrients, like vitamin B, iron, or folic acid, which assist in maintaining health and immunity to disease. Where is gluten located? Gluten is found in grains such as wheat, rye, barley and spelt. This means any products containing these grains are also susceptible to gluten infestation. Not only does this include items like breads, crackers, cereals and wheat pasta but also certain salad dressings and even soy sauce. Gluten is also found in numerous desserts. How do you know if something contains gluten? Read the ingredients label. These days, food manufacturers are required to mention if there are any allergens in

How does my family go gluten-free? Thanks to programs like the Paleo diet, there is more information on how to live a gluten-free lifestyle. The basics are to focus on lean meats, fruits, vegetables and grains such as quinoa, millet and buckwheat. Oats are also considered non-gluten as long as they aren’t produced or processed with wheat products. Should I purchase gluten-free mixes and meals? You can, with one caveat. Many glutenfree products don’t contain the necessary vitamins and other nutrients found in many enriched wheat-based foods, which means your children could start lacking some important minerals to grow. It’s best to combine some pre-packaged meals and dessert bakes with a combination of meat proteins and fats along with fiber and vitamin rich fruits and vegetables. Can my family still eat dinner out? Yes, because restaurants are more accommodating to those with food allergies. Many restaurants offer glutenfree selections in a special menu or at the request of a manager or chef. Then there are restaurants like Fort Collins’ Taste of Harmony that feature organic and vegan entries as well as 100-percent wheat-free desserts, which should make the kids happy. In the end you need to relax, consider your options, and prepare your household for a nutritious and healthy change.

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Attention-related

disorders on the rise

? s e s o n g a i d n i e s a e r c n i n a e r e h t s i y Wh ols — h c i N . U n n y —L

nattention. Distraction. Social struggles. These are the common denominators of a trio of neuro-developmental disorders—ADHD, autism and Asperger’s Syndrome. Yet it’s not the only thing hey have in common. Another is that all three are being diagnosed at increasing rates. According to the Center for Disease Control (CDC), children diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder (which includes Asperger’s) jumped from 1 in 88 in 2008 to 1 in 68 in 2010. The CDC also found that ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactive Disorder) rates have risen to nearly 1 in 5 high school boys and over 1 in 10 children overall in the US have ADHD. What’s going on? Why are these disorders on the rise? “There isn’t one specific reason for the increase, there are many,” says Dr. Carol Pfaffly, Marriage and Family Therapist with the UCHealth Family Medicine Center in Fort Collins. To start, the public is much more

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aware of these disorders: “There’s more attention paid to these disorders, and more medications developed to treat these disorders. Parents and educators are more aware of the symptoms and when their child exhibits one, like a short attention span or an inability to sit for a long while, they tend to think, ‘Hey, maybe that’s what’s going on,” she says. Some experts, such as Dr. William Graf, a pediatric neurologist quoted recently in the New York Times, believe

that ADHD diagnoses are being handed out too quickly: “Mild symptoms are being diagnosed so readily, which goes well beyond the disorder to pure enhancement of children who are otherwise healthy.” Add in the pressure from parents to find a magic pill for ADHD behaviors and there’s a good chance some kids are ending up with a misdiagnosis. After all, we’ve all read stories about college students going in to get the diagnosis simply to access medication that helps them concentrate and study.

Building skills with ASD or ADHD If your child has been diagnosed with ASD or ADHD and you are at a loss of where to start, consider seeing a pediatric therapist at Children’s Therapy Services housed at UCHealth’s Poudre Valley Hospital in Fort Collins. “We work with children from preschool to high school with these conditions, helping them learn organizational skills, problem solving, and sequencing techniques as well as sensory processing and social skills,” says Chris Gaebler, occupational therapist. Licensed pediatric clinicians including physical, occupational and speech therapists as well as medical nutritionists and music therapists teach skills. Therapy can be covered by insurance with a referral from a physician. For more information, call 970-495-8780.

Is this it, then? Awareness that leads to more diagnoses, along with a trend of over-diagnosing? It’s still not that simple. We’ve got to ask, why does the US have significantly more cases of ADHD than other countries? Could it have something to do with the fact that we also consume the most pharmaceuticals per capita? “As a therapist who works in a medical setting, it’s pretty common to hear a parent request medication for their child’s ADHD or autism symptoms. In the US, we’ve been trained, possibly by the frequent advertising of pharmaceutical companies, to turn to a drug to fix our challenges,” Pfaffly muses. She doesn’t deny that medications can help kids focus or calm down, but she sees it as only a part of the solution. More importantly, children must learn behavioral skills so they can cope in life. Doesn’t it seem obvious that if someone has trouble focusing or paying attention, bombarding them with lots of stimulation would make things worse? It’s a part of the media-driven, fast-paced society we live in: “There are so many things competing for our attention these days. Some kids adapt better to these constant pressures than others,” Pfaffly says. Some experts blame our modern media for exacerbating these disorders. Research published recently in the Journal of Biological Psychiatry found that media sources, including iPads and mobile phones, are disturbing our sleep and our bodies’ melatonin production. Disturbed, inadequate sleep is well known to decrease the ability to concentrate and make people agitated or depressed. Still, another factor that may contribute to more diagnoses of attention disorders is simply that kids today spend less time outside in nature. According to a recent article in Psychology Today, kids with ADHD cope better when they’re outside yet kids today spend half as much time outdoors than they did before 1992. “Kids with ADHD succeed more when they get physical activity before school,” Pfaffly says.

Add in cyclical changes in eating habits, parenting styles, education priorities and environmental changes and the answer becomes even more complicated. “It’s a complex answer, and its equally complex to diagnose these disorders,” Pfaffly states. The smart way to diagnose It’s easy to assume that if your child is struggling at school, has trouble listening or carrying out tasks, or has overflowing energy that they might have ADHD or ASD. Symptoms often cross over between diagnoses. According to an article in ADDitude Magazine for caregivers of kids with ADHD, most families of children with Asperger’s first receive an ADHD diagnosis before their physician concludes that it’s Asperger’s. The two share the behaviors of impulsivity, difficulty settling down, an ability to only focus on things of interest and social awkwardness. To make diagnosing even trickier, these same troubling behaviors can occur for environmental reasons, such as poor sleep, emotional stress, unstable surroundings, dietary issues and more. “I like to start with the basics: Is

the child eating well, sleeping well, being active, and getting his or her social and emotional needs met? Parents want to fix serious behaviors right away. They want answers and solutions and a diagnosis gives them a starting point. Yet that label can have unwanted consequences. I urge parents to slow down and be thoughtful—and rule out the obvious things first,” Pfaffly advises. She feels adequate sleep is often overlooked. Yet fixing this one problem—too little sleep—can mean big changes in behaviors. The same goes for addressing dietary problems like too much sugar or fast food and not enough healthy fats, proteins and grains. Food sensitivities can also be an underlying issue. “Many illnesses happen because we haven’t taken care of ourselves, so start with simple lifestyle improvements and see if it makes a difference. If it doesn’t, get professional help. We are talking about complex human beings in complex environments, so take some time and don’t rush into a diagnosis and treatment plan. Find what solutions fit with your family,” Pfaffly concludes.

How to support your child

Teach sequencing skills Following through on a multi-step process can be challenging for kids with attention issues. “Sequencing is simply breaking down a task into steps. Kids with ADHD are often bright, so once they master sequencing in one area, like cleaning their room, they can transfer it to another, like completing a project at school,” Pfaffly states. Chris Gaebler, Occupational Therapist with Children’s Therapy Services at UCHealth Poudre Valley Hospital in Fort Collins, helps kids sequence with visual cues: “We present the steps in pictures. If it’s getting ready for school, there’s a visual for each step including getting dressed, brushing teeth, eating breakfast and packing a backpack.” For older kids this might be a list on their door on how to clean their room or do their laundry. The same idea can be applied to school projects. Establish structure and routine “Predictability reduces anxiety in all kids and adults, but especially those with a diagnosis of ADHD or ASD (Autism Syndrome Disorders). When we know what to expect, we feel less anxious,” Pfaffly says. Establish a set routine for getting ready for school, going to bed, mealtimes and doing homework. Set rules around the use of television and media. Give kids a lot of warning when the routine might change, especially for kids with ASD. “Kids with autism do not do well with change. If caught off guard, they may act out or revert to unwanted behaviors. Review the steps of a change in schedule—like a dentist appointment—well in advance,” Pfaffly advises. Limit choices “Limiting choices is good for all kids, but especially for kids with distraction issues. I suggest limiting choices to one or two for young kids and increasing the number of choices as kids get older,” Pfaffly concludes.

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Don’t let academic progress slip away over vacation

summ

Slowing the

er slide

Kim Sharpe

liding in the summer—whether at a grassy park or a water park—can be a lot of fun. But when children and youth slide backwards in their academic achievement while on summer break, it’s a whole different ball game. More than 100 years of research show that kids lose academic ground during summer months when they aren’t regularly engaged in learning activities. “Students typically score lower on standardized tests at the end of summer vacation than they do on the same tests at the beginning of the summer,” according to the National Summer Learning Association. Some critics feel the slide is exaggerated and that children and youth actually benefit from having time off from the daily grind of school. “The summer learning slide isn’t quite the catastrophe it’s made out to be,” says John Spencer, a teacher, author and education reformer with Education Rethink. “From what I’ve seen, students aren’t necessarily slow to think at the beginning of the year. Instead, they’re slow to work. Slow to write and to answer questions and to remember things that were just taught. However,

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if students have forgotten a critical skill or an important concept, chances are it wasn’t taught the right way. If a skill was taught in isolation, as something that does not connect to life, is it any wonder that a child won’t use that particular skill throughout the summer?” One proven way to engage kids in year-round learning yet still allow them space to explore the world around them in less structured ways than classrooms often provide is by encouraging them to read. They can experience adventures and journeys while organically practicing the skills they learn during the school year and connecting that learning to real life. Advocates rally for reading Northern Colorado libraries and reading advocates offer many ways to get kids reading and books into their hands, even those whose families have a low income, which makes purchasing books a very low priority. One such program is Ride for Reading which promotes literacy and health through the delivery of books by bicycle to schools where lower-income students might not otherwise have

books at home. Through the efforts of Dee Wanger, co-owner at Ridekick International, which manufactures electric-powered bicycle trailers, Fort Collins is a distribution site. The local group plans to distribute more than 1,400 books to students at Poudre School District’s Harris Bilingual School and Laurel School of Arts and Technology on May 5 and May 7. Unite for Literacy is a Colorado-based enterprise that makes books available to young children through its free online library. Michael McGuffee, the business’ CEO, has made it his life’s work to “bring books to children all over the world because I believe access to books in the home is the key to literacy.” A unique feature of Unite for Literacy’s digital books is that they are recorded in about 15 different languages, such as Spanish, Chinese and Arabic. Children and their parents or caregivers can read or see the words in English, as well as hear the stories narrated in their native tongues. Libraries make reading fun Public libraries throughout NoCo are solidifying their summer reading pro-

grams for children and teens. Berthoud, Estes Park and Fort Collins know reading is a blast. The Berthoud Community Library, Estes Valley Library and Poudre River Public Libraries all have chosen a summer reading program intended to ignite enthusiasm for reading. Berthoud Library’s “Fizz, Boom, Read” program for younger and emerging readers will feature everything from hover crafts to folk music to dragons, and a chance to win prizes. It includes fun for the whole family. All young reader and family events will be held at the Berthoud Community Center on Wednesdays at 2pm. “Spark a Reaction” will offer teens a unique chance to get to know more about the library while earning chances to enter prize drawings that will be happening throughout the summer. The Berthoud Library will host teen events each week on Tuesdays at 2pm. The library’s kickoff party will be held on Saturday, May 31, 1-4pm. Estes Valley Library’s “Fizz, Boom, Read” young reader program also will offer kids 6-11 years old incentives for reading, plus workshops, movies and special events about rockets, geocaching, robots and more. Its “Spark a Reaction” program for preteens and teens 11-18 years old will include music, art and a murder mystery party. All the fun is free of charge and begins on Tuesday, June 10. The Poudre River Public Library District’s libraries will offer readers of all ages an opportunity to explore all things STREAM (Science, Technology, Reading, Engineering, Arts, Math) through the “Fizz, Boom, Read” and “Spark a Reaction” programs for kids and teens. Activities will include science experiments, Ben Franklin visits, Grossology fun, CSI techniques, storytimes, outdoor theatre, music, puppets and more. Participants can pick up their reading logs from any Poudre library and begin working toward earning prizes beginning June 1. The High Plains Library District in Weld County will offer “My Summer Adventure.” It’s an exciting summer reading experience providing another

dynamic variety of STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art and Math) programs and activities. Kids can explore the farthest reaches of space, the art of sumi-nagashi paper painting, food science with Chef Ian and carnivorous plants. Dr. Who tween and teen fans will even get to enjoy a Dr. Who party. Participants will have the opportunity to earn sticker “badges” as they complete each STEAM component. “Since reading fun is our mission, there will still be a reading requirement attached to each badge component,” says Khristine Gamer, a High Plains librarian. “But we also have an exciting line-up of programs from the Denver Museum of Nature and Science, Playground Theater, NASA and the Butterfly Pavilion, among others.” “My Summer Adventure” fun will take place June 1-July 26. Activity logs will be available at High Plains Library branches beginning June 1. The Loveland Library offers a variety of events and activities for children and teens to help them avoid the summer slide. It also has programs to introduce very young children to the world of reading. The pre-reader program features a list of recommended books for parents to read to their children, as well as a variety of activities for parents to do with their young children, such as singing and movement exercises. The traditional program is for parents who prefer to read to their young child or to encourage older children who are reading independently. Either way, it requires a minimum of 15 minutes spent reading each day. “It is nice to break up the reading time into shorter sessions; 10 minutes after lunch and 10 minutes before bed, for example,” says Dawn Middleton, Loveland Library’s children’s supervisor. The Badge Quest program is new this year and focuses on nonfiction or informational books. Children may earn up to six unique badges. Several badges are tied to this summer’s theme, which is Science, Technology, Engi-

neering & Math or STEM. For each badge, kids need to read at least three informational books on a chosen subject. If someone reads the books to or with them, that also counts. In addition, they must complete an activity of their choice that is related to the badge. The library also takes its show on the road and offers reading opportunities to children who may not have transportation to the library. Its Storyteller in the Park takes place nearly every weekday in June and July at 11am at a variety of City parks. The Windsor Clearview Library offers regular, ongoing programs for little ones aged birth-5 years old, which include music, dancing and cuddle time with their parents. Its regular programs for older children and teens include Legos, and board and video games. It will augment this programming during the summer months with special presentations by the Denver Zoo, the University of Colorado’s Science Discovery, and guest musicians and storytellers.

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thompson school district news Knowledge Bowl team at State Tournement overall school goal of 250,000 minutes. If the children met their goal, principal Kandi Smith promised the students that she would hold a 7-foot-long red-tailed boa snake! The goal was easily met and Principal Smith fulfilled her promise.

Berthoud High School’s top Knowledge Bowl team ( James Wood (Captain), Dominic Loffreda, Bridget Hyde, Sydney Levy, and alternate Jacy McNulty) competed against three other Knowledge Bowl teams at the 4A level to advance to the State Knowledge Bowl Tournament, which was held in Colorado Springs April 17-18, 2014. The team received the third highest total points among the 15 participating schools. This was the first time a Berthoud High School Knowledge Bowl team has qualified for the state event since 2007. Boettcher Foundation scholarship recipients Congratulations to Josephine Buckley, a senior at Berthoud High School who has been named one of only 40 2014 Boettcher Foundation scholarship recipients! Boettcher Scholars are awarded full-ride merit-based scholarships to attend a college or university within the state of Colorado. The scholarship Buckley has been awarded includes virtually all college expenses: full tuition, fees, a book allowance and an annual stipend for living expenses. The award is granted for eight semesters

at either a public or private four-year college or university in the state. Superintendent and Kidspak Superintendent Stan Scheer recently visited the Loveland Rotary Club’s KidsPak program, where he helped pack food for hundreds of TSD children in need. KidsPak is a weekend hunger relief program for children in the Thompson School District. The program partners with each school in the district to provide much-needed packs of food that meet the nutritional requirements for children. The program works with the Food Bank for Larimer County to create a specific menu each week to meet these needs. “It is truly wonderful to see a local group recognize an issue within the community and then do something about it,” Scheer said. “It says something very positive about the character of our community.” National Reading Month Celebrated with read-a-thon A Read-A-Thon was held at Ponderosa Elementary School in celebration of March being designated as “National Reading Month.” The children had a goal to each read 600 minutes, with an

Teacher Tuesday Awarded Mountain View High School teacher Ryan Barron was presented with the “K99 Teacher Tuesday” award on March 25. Pictured with Mr. Barron are students Connyr & Devin Hennings. Mr. Barron teaches math at MVHS. He makes it enjoyable and understandable for the students in his class. He is also there to tutor after school when students need extra help. Congratulations, Mr. Barron!

Globetrotter visits Elementary School Harlem Globetrotter “TNT Maddox” visited Van Buren Elementary School on March 26 to present the “ABCs of Bullying Prevention” to students. Maddox, whose hometown is Colorado Springs, joined the Globetrotters in 2011 and became the first woman to don the red, white and blue uniform since 1993. Her anti-bullying message of “Action,” “Bravery,” and “Compassion” was followed up by a quick demonstration of her supreme basketball skills! RMPARENT

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poudre school district news Volunteer enjoys seeing community come together going to the gym, spending time with her husband and two children, and eating. She says, “I go to the gym so I can eat more!” She also enjoys cooking, being outside doing any number of activities, and traveling. “I’m in the school for a lot of different reasons,” says Huff. “I hang out there so often that I have gotten to know a lot of the kids. It’s nice to walk down the hall and hear an occasional ‘Hi Mrs. Huff !’ I also enjoy seeing our community come together to buoy up one another and support our children in making their learning experience that much better. We are extremely lucky to have such an enthusiastic group of people willing and ready to make Bacon a better place.”

Kelli Huff is honored for her role as VBC for Bacon Elementary.

Poudre School District has over 20,000 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! Kelli Huff, Volunteer Building Coordinator for Bacon Elementary, is in her first year in this position. She has been volunteering at the school for the past 2 ½ years, with one year serving as co-coordinator. She has also been involved with the Auction Committee for Bacon, which raised some 30

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much needed funds for Bacon. Huff says, “The volunteers at Bacon are awesome!” They started asking for volunteers before school started and have been overwhelmed with the response all year long. “I was told that things would be really busy at the beginning of the school year and then taper off after a few months; I am waiting for the taper!” Even though there is only one month left of this school year, they still have a steady flow of people signing up and willing to help all year. Recently, they had the STEM Museum visit their school. They only had a few days to gather quite a few volunteers to help with the events of the day. Huff sent out the volunteer request and before she knew it, she had all the slots filled, with extras showing up just because they knew about it. “It makes my job so much easier to have people around that are willing to give their time,” says Huff. In her spare time, Huff enjoys

Lesher students learn VIA CSU Muscles Alive! program Most of us don’t think about what our body is actually doing while we type an email, cook dinner, or do yard work. We just do it. However, a two-way conversation between our brain and muscles is constantly chattering away throughout the day, which lets us function and do these tasks. Seventh-graders at Lesher Middle School, an International Baccalaureate World School, got to see and hear that conversation when Muscles Alive!, a Colorado State University neuroscience educational outreach program, visited the school. Students were hooked up to bio amplifiers and as they did activities, like chewing gummy bears or making a fist with their hand, they could see and hear their own brain’s electrical activity while tens of thousands of muscle fibers worked and communicated back to the brain. The electrical activity was displayed on iPads. Lesher seventh-grader Allam Bushara found the interactive exhibits not only fun, but also helpful for his future career.

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(Spanish translator present) •M onday, May 5, 5 or 6pm, Polaris Expeditionary Learning School, 1905 Orchard Place • Tuesday, May 6, 5:30 or 6:30pm, Wellington Middle School, 4001 Wilson Ave. • Wednesday, May 7, 5:30 or 6:30pm, Kinard Middle School, 3002 E. Trilby Rd. • Thursday, May 8 , 5:30 or 6:30pm, Johannsen Support Services Complex, 2407 LaPorte Ave. • M onday, May 12, 5 or 6pm, Webber Middle School, 4201 Seneca St. • Tuesday, May 13, 6 or 7pm, Johannsen Support Service Complex, 2407 LaPorte Ave. • Wednesday, May 14, 5:30 or 6:30pm, Lincoln Middle School, 1600 W. Lancer Dr. (Spanish translator present) • Thursday, May 15, 5 or 6pm, Preston Middle School, 4901 Corbett Dr.

Seventh-graders at Lesher Middle School, an International Baccalaureate World School, got to see and hear that conversation when Muscles Alive!, a Colorado State University neuroscience educational outreach program, visited the school.

“It was interesting because we got to see what the brain looks and sounds like when you use your muscles,” says Bushara, who hopes to be a doctor one day. “You encounter a lot of things as an ER physician and now I know about the brains and the muscles.“ “Essentially kids can see the brain’s conversation in real-time and experience their own physiology,” says Dr. Brian Tracey, who developed the program through CSU’s Neuromuscular Function Lab. “There something really fun about contracting your own muscles and listening to it.” “We just want to make learning science fun, get them interested in science and show them that physiology is cool and it doesn’t have to be a dry lecture,” he adds. Lesher math teacher Lynn Ann Johnson says students become more engaged in learning when they can participate in demonstrations like the CSU Muscles Alive! program. “It’s a very interactive exhibit and the kids really enjoy learning how the muscles work,” says Johnson. “We’re glad to have CSU here doing this.” 32

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Laptop trainings scheduled for parents of freshmen entering high school Eighth-graders entering their freshman year of high school in Poudre School District will have the opportunity to receive a new laptop as part of the PSD technology initiative. Parents or guardians must attend a 30-minute laptop training for students to receive a laptop fall 2014. Each training will address proper care and use of the laptops, a review of the user agreement form that students and parents must sign to receive a laptop, and any other questions or concerns about the laptops. Please select ONE training to attend (all are identical): •M onday, April 28, 5 or 6pm, Blevins Middle School, 2101 S. Taft Hill Rd. • Tuesday, April 29, 5 or 6pm, Lesher Middle School, 1400 Stover St. (Spanish translator present) • Wednesday, April 30, 5 or 6pm, Cache La Poudre Middle School, 3515 W. County Rd. • Thursday, May 1, 5:30 or 6:30pm, Boltz Middle School, 720 Boltz Dr.

Your high school will notify you of the dates and times the laptops will be handed out to students. Please note there is a one-time $50 fee that is applied towards the accidental damage warranty. This warranty protects students from having to pay repairs on accidental damage. This fee can be waived if your student qualifies for free or reduced lunch and has completed all the paperwork for that. Fees are not due until the fall.

PSD Calendar of Events May 5-9 .... Teacher Appreciation Week May 13 ...... 6:30pm, Board of Education business meeting, Johannsen Support Services Complex, 2407 LaPorte Ave. May 16 ....... K- 8, Teacher Work Day, NO SCHOOL for K-8 students May 22-24 ... PSD High School Graduations. Check PSD website (www.psdschools.org) for more information. May 26 ....... Memorial Day, No School May 27 ....... 6:30pm, Board of Education business meeting and work session, Johannsen Support Services Complex, 2407 La Porte Ave. May 30 ....... K-12 half day of school, LAST DAY OF SCHOOL FOR THE 2013-14 SCHOOL YEAR

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greeley-evans district 6 news Ground broken on new Middle School

Under the brightly shining sun, ground was broken on the new Prairie Heights Middle School Thursday, March 27. The school will be located southwest of the intersection of 37th Street and 65th Avenue in Evans. Construction will begin immediately on the 103,000 square foot building. More than 100 people attended the groundbreaking ceremony. Board of Education President Roger Dewitt presented a lively opening and welcome. Mayor of Evans Lyle Achziger talked about how important the new school will be to students and the community. Superintendent Dr. Ranelle Lang gave a brief historical account of the project, thanked voters for approving a bond issue that is helping fund the construction and talked about the approximately 40 students from John Evans Middle School who attended the event. And Dr. Bruce Broderius, former Board of Education President and cochair of the committee that helped pass the bond issue, said the school is the result of what happens when a community comes together. The students who attended the event were chosen based on the quality of persuasive letters they wrote stating why they should be at the ground break34

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ing. Each student was given the opportunity to don a hardhat, grab a golden shovel and turn dirt on the site of their new school. They were excited to look at the plans for the new schools, and many took photos to mark the day. Prairie Heights will replace John Evans when it opens in August of 2015. The new school is funded through a state of Colorado Building Excellent Schools Today grant of $22 million and a voterapproved $8.3 million bond issue. Three District 6 students named Boettcher Scholars Three Greeley-Evans School District 6 students have been named Boettcher Scholars for 2014, and will receive the prestigious and highly-competitive scholarship to any four-year institution in Colorado. Northridge High School has two winners this year, and has had seven Boettcher scholars in the last seven years. This year’s Boettcher winners are: Amanda Cary, Northridge High School. Amanda is the president of the Northridge Student Council and plays soccer, basketball, and runs cross country and track. She is a member of the LINK Crew, Interact Club, National Honor Society and the Council of Student Rep-

resentatives. She helped form Young Life, a Christian-based club at Northridge. In the community, Amanda serves on the Cache Bank Junior Board of Directors, the United Way Youth Allocation Committee and has volunteered with the St. Mary’s Catholic Church youth group. She also organized the Cubs to Grizzlies to Bears Drive, which collected stuffed bears for the Greeley Fire Department to distribute to children involved in traumatic events. On the day the Boettcher awards were to be coming in the mail, Amanda said her mother actually hunted down the mail delivery person in her neighborhood to see if the notification had arrived. They opened the letter together and celebrated. “It was a really good day,” Amanda said. “I called everyone – my dad, my brother – and made them cry.” Amanda is looking to attend either the University of Colorado or Denver University in the fall. “I am inspired and proud of all that Amanda has achieved,” said Northridge Principal Insoon Olson. “She is a leader, passionate about her peers, champion for all things Northridge and inspirational for younger students. She will exceed any goals she sets for herself and will be an outstanding member of society.” Katrina San Nicolas, Northridge High School. Katrina is the state president for the Family, Career and Community Leaders of America. She is a member of the Debate and Forensics teams at Northridge, as well as Student Council, National Honor Society, Stem Magnet, LINK Team and plays tennis. In addition, Katrina serves on the Cache Bank Junior Board of Directors and initiated the Weld Molding Effective Leaders Day (Weld-MELD), which helped freshmen students find resources and support for taking leadership roles in their schools and communities. When she heard her classmate, Amanda Cary, had received the

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credible work in education, both at Winograd and throughout the community. District 6 and Chappelow K-8 Arts and Literacy Magnet won division awards for their contributions to the United Way annual campaign. Chappelow students hosted a “penny war” and gave all money collected to United Way. The celebration also featured a performance by the Greeley Central Wildcats Drum Line.

From left: Amanda Cary, Patrick Ryan, Katrina San Nicolas,

Boettcher, Katrina said she didn’t know if they would possibly give it to two students at the same school. She rushed home to check the mail and was pleasantly surprised. “I was incredibly excited,” she said. “It was the happiest feeling ever.” Katrina is still considering many options for college including the Colorado School of Mines, the University of Colorado and Colorado State University. She plans to study engineering. “I don’t believe in my entire 14 years of education that I have seen a student more involved in her academics and extra-curricular activities,” said Northridge Principal Insoon Olson. “She shines in whatever she chooses to participate in and is a motivational leader.” Patrick Ryan, Greeley Central High School. Patrick is the president of the Greeley Central Student Council, a member of the Key Club, Council of Student Representatives and National Honor Society, and a competitor in swimming and tennis. He also is the founder of the Change War Service Project, in which he and a group of classmates raise funds for scholarships for Greeley Central students. The only two requirements for recipients are that they have a passion for education and a commitment to community service. Since its inception, the program has awarded six, $500 scholarships. Patrick also helps coach swimming for Special Olympics and plays the guitar. Patrick said he was happy when he learned of the Boettcher win, and will 36

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spend the next few weeks finalizing his college plans. He is considering attending either the University of Colorado or the Colorado School of Mines. Greeley Central Principal Mark Cousins said what makes Patrick special is that he is incredibly well-rounded. “He is dedicated to excellence, not only academically but in every aspect of his life,” Cousins said. “He gives back in every possible way, to this school and to his community.” The Boettcher Foundation awards 40 scholarships per year, totaling about $3 million. More than 1,600 students applied this year. Applicants go through a rigorous application and interview process. Students are selected based on their superior scholastic abilities; evidence of leadership and involvement; service to the community and their school and outstanding character. The scholarship provides full tuition at any Colorado four-year college or university, as well as fees, a book allowance and an annual stipend for living expenses. Principal, district and school honored by United Way Greeley-Evans School District 6, Winograd K-8 Principal Holly Bressler and Chappelow K-8 were honored at the 2014 United Way Celebration of Excellence luncheon, held Thursday, March 13 at the University of Northern Colorado. This annual event honors United Way of Weld County partners for their volunteerism and donations to the organization. Holly Bressler was honored as a Community Impact Advocate for her in-

Platte Valley Youth Services office manager named Classified Employee of the Year Sherrie Badial, office manager at Platte Valley Youth Services, has been selected by her peers as the Classified Employee of the Year for 2013-14. Badial was recognized at the Board of Education meeting Monday, March 24. She has worked for Greeley-Evans School District 6 since 1988, and started at Platte Valley Youth Services when that facility opened in September of 1997. Platte Valley Youth Services offers educational services for incarcerated youth, ages 10-20. Students at Platte Valley can graduate with a traditional diploma or can obtain a GED while in the program. “Sherrie has been at Platte Valley since the first day it opened,” said Richard Paull, principal at Platte Valley. “She is dedicated to the educational program here at Platte. She is always willing to help youth and staff and does so in a professional and pleasant manner. She makes every individual she comes in contact feel that they are someone special.” In the nomination submitted to the Classified Council from staff members at Platte Valley, Sherrie was cited as a role model for other employees. “Flexibility and adaptability are essential in our school, and Sherrie models these characteristics with a positive attitude,” the nomination states. “Whatever challenges are presented, Sherrie handles them promptly and thoughtfully, working to find detailed solutions and helping our staff put them into action in a timely manner.” Badial was selected for the honor by a committee comprised of members of the District 6 Classified Council. This is the second time she has received Classified Employee of the Year.

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lunchbox Poudre School District— Elementary student lunches are $2.25, secondary student lunches are $2.50 and reduced lunches

are $0.40. Entrees offered daily: Elementary—a variety of fruits and vegetables, milk and juices; Secondary--hot and cold sandwiches, fruits and vegetables, deli salad and pizza. Elementary schoolS 1 Chicken quesadilla; chicken patty sandwich 2 Cheese or chicken fajita pizza; Mediterranean pasta salad Cheeseburger; BBQ chicken sandwich 5 6 Cheese raviolis; Italian dippers 7 Orange chicken & brown rice; penne & meatsauce 8 Beef & bean burrito; baked chicken nuggets 9 Pepperoni or veggie pizza; spinach salad 12 Chicken patty sandwich; trout treasures 13 Lasagna; ranch chicken bites 14 Beef fried rice & egg roll; cheese-

burger 15 Beef tacos; turkey & cheese wrap 16 No school! 19 Sloppy Joe; baked chicken nuggets 20 Spaghetti w/meat sauce; ham & cheese sub 21 Asian Teriyaki bowl; chicken drumstick & biscuit 22 Chicken enchilada bake; hot dog 23 Pepperoni or cheese pizza; chef salad 26 No school! 27 Pasta w/spring veggies & chicken; trout treasures 28 Chicken fajita bowl; turkey pot pie 29 Cheese quesadilla; chicken patty sandwich

30 Egg & cheese biscuit sandwich Secondary schools 1 Beef tacos 2 Chicken fajita burrito 5 Philly cheesesteak; Teriyaki chicken sandwich 6 Spaghetti & meatsauce; chicken broccoli Alfredo 7 Orange chicken & brown rice; beef Szechwan 8 Chicken fajita rice bowl; cheese quesadilla 9 Corn dog; mac & cheese 12 Chicken & roll; chili & roll 13 Spaghetti & meatballs; cheese raviolis 14 Asian Teriyaki rice bowl; chicken

nuggets 15 Beef tacos; chicken enchilada bake 16 No school! 19 Sloppy Joe; grilled chicken sandwich 20 Beef lasagna; Italian dippers 21 Beef fried rice & egg roll; trout melt sandwich 22 Beef & bean burrito; Mexicali chili dog 23 Turkey gravy & roll; cheese quesadilla 26 No school! 27 Pasta w/spring roasted veggies; meatball sub 28 Asian noodle bowl w/chicken; Ranch chicken bites & biscuit 29 Beef tacos; chicken fajita burrito 30 Have a great summer!

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 1-2 No School! 5 Pot roast 6 Egg roll; popcorn chicken; chicken tender salad 7 Spaghetti & meatballs; chef salad 8 Turkey chipotle burrito; taco salad 9 Stuffed shells; garden entrée salad 12 Pancake w/sausage; Caesar salad 13 Ravioli w/white sauce; chicken

tender salad 14 Hamburger; chef salad 15 Nachos; taco salad 16 Personal flatbread; garden entrée salad 19-23 Manager’s choice 26 No school! 27-30 Manager’s choice Secondary schools 1 Grilled cheese; chicken nuggets

2 General Tso’s chicken; pretzel w/ cheese sauce 5 Pot roast; sloppy Joe 6 Egg roll w/popcorn chicken; hot ham & cheese 7 Pasta bar 8 Turkey chipotle burrito 9 Stuffed shells; hamburger 12 Waffle; chicken breast strips; pulled pork sandwich

13 Ravioli w/white sauce; popcorn chicken 14 Burger bar 15 Nachos w/meat; lasagna w/meat 16 Personal flatbread; chicken breast nuggets 19-23 Manager’s choice 26 No school! 27-30 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 Roast turkey w/roll; Italian hoagie 2 Cheese or taco pizza; tuna salad sandwich 5 Pork carnitas w/tortilla; chicken fajita wrap 6 Chili w/cinnamon roll; club hoagie 7 Chicken Alfredo pasta w/breadstick; PBJ 8 Turkey pot pie; ham & cheese hoagie 9 Hawaiian or cheese pizza; PBJ 12 Mac n’cheese; chicken salad

sandwich 13 Chicken cordon bleu sandwich; turkey & cheese wrap 14 Toasted cheese sandwich w/ tomato soup; PBJ 15 Herb chicken w/roll; Italian hoagie 16 BBQ chicken or cheese pizza; tuna sandwich 19 Sloppy Joe; chicken fajita wrap 20 Teriyaki chicken w/brown rice; club hoagie 21 Hamburger/cheeseburger; PBJ

Secondary schools 1 Roast turkey w/roll; Italian hoagie 2 Cheese or taco pizza; tuna salad sandwich 5 Pork carnitas w/tortilla; chicken fajita wrap 6 Chili w/cinnamon roll; club hoagie 7 Chicken Alfredo pasta w/breadstick; PBJ 8 Turkey pot pie; ham & cheese hoagie 9 Hawaiian or cheese pizza; PBJ 12 Mac n’cheese; chicken salad

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 Sloppy Joe 2 Cheese sticks w/marinara sauce 5 No school! 6 Tacos 7 French toast w/sausage 8 Ravioli

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9 Cheese or veggie pizza 12 Chicken sandwich 13 Lasagna 14 Teriyaki chicken 15 Burger 16 Stuffed crust cheese or pepperoni pizza 19 Chicken nuggets

20 Corn dog 21 Cheese pizza 22 Manager’s choice Secondary schools 1 Sloppy Joe 2 Hot & spicy chicken sandwich 5 Tacos

6 Stuffed cheese or pepperoni pizza 7 French toast w/sausage 8 Ravioli 9 Steak & cheese sandwich 12 Chicken sandwich 13 Lasagna 14 Teriyaki chicken

15 Cheeseburger 16 Meatball sub 19 Chicken nuggets 20 Weiner wrap 21-22 Manager’s choice

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M AY 2 0 1 4 ONGOING Through May 4 I, Claudia Written by Kristen Thomson. Directed by Dulcie Willis. Watch the raw but beautiful interior world of a misfit adolescent. Bas Bleu Theatre Company, 401 Pine St., FC. 970-498-8949 or www.basbleu.org. Through May 31 South Pacific Come enjoy this musical classic by Rodgers & Hammerstein. Midtown Arts Center, 3750 S. Mason St., FC. 970-2252555 or www.midtownartscenter.com. Through June 8 Damn Yankees Enjoy this 8-time Tony Award winning Broadway musical. Candlelight Dinner Playhouse, 4747 Market Place Dr., Johnstown, CO. 970-744-3747 or www. coloradocandlelight.com. May 1-4 Cirque du Soleil Varekai Budweiser Event Center, 5290 Arena Circle, LV. 970-619-4100 or www. budweisereventcenter.com. May 2-4 Crazy Little Thing Called Love The Rialto Theatre Center, 228 E. 4th St., LV. 7:30pm. 970-962-2120 or www. ci.loveland.co.us. May 2-10 The Princess and the Goblin Presented by Debut Theatre Company. Venture into a fantasy world of long ago. The Lincoln Center, 417 W. Magnolia St, FC. 970-221-6730 or www.LCTIX.com. May 9-18 Father of the Bride The Rialto Theatre Center, 228 E. 4th St., LV. 970-962-2120 or www.ci.loveland. co.us.

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Thursday, May 1 iPad Rock Band Windsor-Severance Library, Clearview Library District, 720 3rd St., Windsor. 3-4:30pm. 970-686-5603 or www. clearviewlibrary.org. Friday, May 2 Scrabble Council Tree Library, 2733 Council Tree Ave., FC. 10am. 970-221-6740 or www. PoudreLibraries.org. Board Games Windsor-Severance Library, Clearview Library District, 720 3rd St., Windsor. 3-4:30pm. 970-686-5603 or www. clearviewlibrary.org. First Friday: A Night of Art Greeley is thriving with local artistic talent! Stop by any and all of the participating art galleries for a wonderful evening. Downtown Art Galleries & Studios, GR. 5-8pm. 970-356-6775 or www.greeleydowntown.com. First Friday Gallery Walk Old Town Square, Downtown, FC. 6-9pm. 484-6500 or www. downtownfortcollins.com.

Saturday, May 3 Kids on Broadway Presented by the Centennial Children’s Chorus. The Lincoln Center, 417 W. Magnolia St, FC. 7pm. 970-221-6730 or www.LCTIX.com. ImagineArt for Tweens & Teens: Mono-prints Harmony Library, 4616 S. Shields St., FC. 1-3pm. 970-221-6740 or www. PoudreLibraries.org.

Movie Night: Bride and Prejudice Old Town Public Library, 201 Peterson St., FC. 7-9pm. 970-221-6740 or www. PoudreLibraries.org. Drake Road Farmers’ Market 802 W. Drake, FC. 10am-1pm. 970-2185521 or www.drakeroadfarmersmarket.com Tour de Pants Loveland Museum/Gallery, 503 N. Lincoln Ave., LV. 8-11:30pm. 970-9622410 or www.ci.loveland.co.us. Guinness Book of World Records Contest Loveland Public Library, 300 N. Adams Ave., LV. 2pm. 970-962-2665 or www. lovelandpubliclibrary.org. Sunday, May 4 Asian-Pacific Stories and Crafts Council Tree Library, 2733 Council Tree Ave., FC. 2pm. 970-221-6740 or www. PoudreLibraries.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. Intro to Off Grid Systems Presented by the Sustainable Living Association. SLA Offices, 201 Linden St., Ste. 204, FC. 9am5:30pm. 970-224-3247 or www. sustainablelivingassociation.org. Fort Collins Farmers’ Market 215 E. Foothills Pkwy., FC. 11am-3pm. 970-495-4889 or www.fortcollinsfm.com.

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Monday, May 5 Read & Seed: Pressed Flowers Story time plus an educational and fun hands-on activity. The Gardens on Spring Creek, 2145 Centre Ave., FC. 10-10:45am & 11-11:45am. 970-416-2486 or www. fcgov.com/gardens. Tuesday, May 6 Loveland Farmers’ Market N. Garfield & Orchards (Hobby Lobby Parking Lot), LV. 11am-3pm. 970-4954889 or www.fortcollinsfm.com. Mother’s Day Tea Centennial Park Library, High Plains Library District, 2227 23rd Ave., GR. 1011am. 970-506-8622 or www.mylibrary. us. Read & Seed: Pressed Flowers Story time plus an educational and fun hands-on activity. The Gardens on Spring Creek, 2145 Centre Ave., FC. 10-10:45am & 11-11:45am. 970-416-2486 or www. fcgov.com/gardens.

Wednesday, May 7 Bright Beginnings for Infants This class empowers parents with knowledge and parenting tools to create a bright beginning for their child. Poudre Valley Hospital, 1025 Garfield St., Suite A, FC. 10-11am. 970-495-7528 or www. pvhs.org. Craft and Wii Windsor-Severance Library, Clearview Library District, 720 3rd St., Windsor. 3-4:30pm. 970-686-5603 or www. clearviewlibrary.org. Lego Club Windsor-Severance Library, Clearview Library District, 720 3rd St., Windsor. 3:30-4:30pm. 970-686-5603 or www. clearviewlibrary.org. Full S.T.E.A.M. Ahead An hour filled with fun science experiments and art activities for students in grades 1-5. Lincoln Park Library, 919 7th St., GR. 4-5pm. 970-356-6775 or www.greeleydowntown.com.

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Thursday, May 8 iPad Rock Band Windsor-Severance Library, Clearview Library District, 720 3rd St., Windsor. 3-4:30pm. 970-686-5603 or www. clearviewlibrary.org. Friday, May 9 Ignite Fort Collins #16 The Lincoln Center, 417 W. Magnolia St, FC. 7pm. 970-221-6730 or www. LCTIX.com. YESTERDAY: The Beatles Tribute Show Band Union Colony Civic Center, 701 10th Ave., GR. 7:30pm. 970-356-5000 or www. ucstars.com.

Saturday, May 10 Both Sides of the Border Presented by Fort Collins Symphony. The Lincoln Center, 417 W. Magnolia St, FC. 7:30pm. 970-221-6730 or www.LCTIX.com. Chess Council Tree Library, 2733 Council Tree Ave., FC. 10am. 970-221-6740 or www. PoudreLibraries.org. Teen IRS: Interesting Reader Society Meeting Join this group of young adults who meet monthly to talk books, movies, music, and other topics. Harmony Library, 4616 S. Shields St., FC. 11am-1pm. 970-221-6740 or www.PoudreLibraries.org. ImagineArt for Tweens & Teens: Mini-murals Harmony Library, 4616 S. Shields St., FC. 1-3pm. 970-221-6740 or www. PoudreLibraries.org. FREE Traffic Skills 101 Class! Presented by FC Bikes. City of Fort Collins, 281 N. College Ave., FC. 970416-2471 or www.fcgov.com/bicycling. Drake Road Farmers’ Market 802 W. Drake, FC. 10am-1pm. 970-2185521 or www.drakeroadfarmersmarket.com Spring Plant Sale The Gardens on Spring Creek, 2145 Centre Ave., FC. 9am-4pm. 970-416-2486 or www.fcgov.com/gardens.

Alice in Wonderland Presented by Greeley Options Musical Theater. Union Colony Civic Center, 701 10th Ave., GR. 4pm & 7pm. 970-3565000 or www.ucstars.com.

Sunday, May 11 Moms & Pops Presented by The Foothills Pops Band. The Lincoln Center, 417 W. Magnolia St, FC. 7pm. 970-221-6730 or www. LCTIX.com. Animal Afternoon Join Larimer Animal People Partnership volunteers and their special story-loving critters. Council Tree Library, 2733 Council Tree Ave., FC. 3-4pm. 970-2216740 or www.PoudreLibraries.org. Fort Collins Farmers’ Market 215 E. Foothills Pkwy., FC. 11am-3pm. 970-495-4889 or www.fortcollinsfm.com. Spring Plant Sale The Gardens on Spring Creek, 2145 Centre Ave., FC. Noon-5pm. 970-416-2486 or www.fcgov.com/gardens. Mother’s Day at the Rialto! The Rialto Theatre Center, 228 E. 4th St., LV. 2pm. 970-962-2120 or www. ci.loveland.co.us.

Monday, May 12 Paws to Read Dogs will curl up to listen to anyone who would like to read to them. Centennial Park Library, High Plains Library District, 2227 23rd Ave., GR. 6:30-7:30pm. 970-5068622 or www.mylibrary.us. Read & Seed: Gardens Markers Story time plus an educational and fun hands-on activity. The Gardens on Spring Creek, 2145 Centre Ave., FC. 10-10:45am & 11-11:45am. 970-416-2486 or www. fcgov.com/gardens.

Tuesday, May 13 Choral Concert & Jazz Presented by Kinard, Fossil Ridge & Webber. The Lincoln Center, 417 W. Magnolia St, FC. 7pm. 970-221-6730 or www.LCTIX.com.

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Anime Club Council Tree Library, 2733 Council Tree Ave., FC. 4-5:30pm. 970-221-6740 or www.PoudreLibraries.org. Loveland Farmers’ Market N. Garfield & Orchards (Hobby Lobby Parking Lot), LV. 11am-3pm. 970-4954889 or www.fortcollinsfm.com. i Make Movies Windsor-Severance Library, Clearview Library District, 720 3rd St., Windsor. 3-4:30pm. 970-686-5603 or www. clearviewlibrary.org. Dad n’ Me: Field Day Centennial Park Library, High Plains Library District, 2227 23rd Ave., GR. 10:30am-Noon. 970-506-8622 or www. mylibrary.us. Read & Seed: Garden Markers Story time plus an educational and fun hands-on activity. The Gardens on Spring Creek, 2145 Centre Ave., FC. 10-10:45am & 11-11:45am. 970-416-2486 or www. fcgov.com/gardens.

Wednesday, May 14 Raptor Adaptations Harmony Library, 4616 S. Shields St., FC. 6:30pm. 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. Poudre Valley Hospital, 1025 Garfield St., Suite A, FC. 10-11am. 970-495-7528 or www.pvhs. org.

Full S.T.E.A.M. Ahead An hour filled with fun science experiments and art activities for students in grades 1-5. Lincoln Park Library, 919 7th St., GR. 4-5pm. 970-356-6775 or www.greeleydowntown.com.

Sunday, May 18 Salute to Broadway Presented by Colorado Women of Song. The Lincoln Center, 417 W. Magnolia St, FC. 4pm. 970-221-6730 or www. LCTIX.com.

Thursday, May 15 High Country Conservatory of Dance Studio Showcase The Lincoln Center, 417 W. Magnolia St, FC. 7pm. 970-221-6730 or www. LCTIX.com.

Game Day @ Your Library Old Town Public Library, 201 Peterson St., FC. 1-5pm. 970-221-6740 or www. PoudreLibraries.org.

iPad Rock Band Windsor-Severance Library, Clearview Library District, 720 3rd St., Windsor. 3:30-4:30pm. 970-686-5603 or www. clearviewlibrary.org.

Friday, May 16 High Country Conservatory of Dance Studio Showcase The Lincoln Center, 417 W. Magnolia St, FC. 7pm. 970-221-6730 or www. LCTIX.com. The Magnolia in May: Taylor Mesple and Carol Frazier The Lincoln Center, 417 W. Magnolia St, FC. 7:30pm. 970-221-6730 or www. LCTIX.com. Reveille 3 in Concert Harmony Library, 4616 S. Shields St., FC. 7-8pm. 970-221-6740 or www. PoudreLibraries.org. Foodie Walk Old Town Square, Downtown, FC. 5-8pm. 484-6500 or www. downtownfortcollins.com.

Craft and Wii Windsor-Severance Library, Clearview Library District, 720 3rd St., Windsor. 3-4:30pm. 970-686-5603 or www. clearviewlibrary.org.

Saturday, May 17 Movie Night: Julie and Julia Old Town Public Library, 201 Peterson St., FC. 7-9pm. 970-221-6740 or www. PoudreLibraries.org.

Lego Club Windsor-Severance Library, Clearview Library District, 720 3rd St., Windsor. 3:30-4:30pm. 970-686-5603 or www. clearviewlibrary.org.

Drake Road Farmers’ Market 802 W. Drake, FC. 10am-1pm. 970-2185521 or www.drakeroadfarmersmarket.com

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Dinosaur Zoo Live Union Colony Civic Center, 701 10th Ave., GR. 6:30pm. 970-356-5000 or www. ucstars.com.

Beekeeping for Beginners Presented by the Sustainable Living Association. The Old Feed Store, 3612 WCR 54G, Laporte, CO. 12-4pm. 970-224-3247 or www. sustainablelivingassociation.org. Fort Collins Farmers’ Market 215 E. Foothills Pkwy., FC. 11am-3pm. 970-495-4889 or www.fortcollinsfm.com.

Monday, May 19 Read & Seed: Marigolds Story time plus an educational and fun hands-on activity. The Gardens on Spring Creek, 2145 Centre Ave., FC. 10-10:45am & 11-11:45am. 970-416-2486 or www. fcgov.com/gardens. Bright Beginnings for Infants This class empowers parents with knowledge and parenting tools to create a bright beginning for their child. McKee Medical Center, 2000 N. Boise Ave., LV. 11:15am. 970-669-9355 or www. bannerhealth.com.

Tuesday, May 20 Bright Beginnings for Infants This class empowers parents with knowledge and parenting tools to create a bright beginning for their child. Medical Center of Rockies, 2500 Rocky Mountain Ave., LV. 12-1pm. 970-495-7528 or www.pvhs.org. Loveland Farmers’ Market N. Garfield & Orchards (Hobby Lobby Parking Lot), LV. 11am-3pm. 970-4954889 or www.fortcollinsfm.com.

Open Knitting every Tuesday night Come to the shop from 6-8pm and work on a current project or get started on a new one. Join us for some casual social knitting.

Shop hours are Tuesday 10 am to 8 pm , Wednesday- Saturday 10 am to 5 pm . We are closed Sunday and Monday. 1408 WEST MOUNTAIN AVENUE FORT COLLINS, CO 80521 â&#x20AC;˘ 970.407.1451

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NOW Registering for Summer Camps

Summer 2014

Hip Hop • Ballet • Jazz • Tap Lyrical and Pre School Dance! Vist us online to sign up: A DancePlace.com

WINDSOR 1292 Main Street Unit 6

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EATON Eaton Recreation Center 224 1st Street

GREELEY 955 52nd Ave Ct. Suite 100B

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APPLE Be part of the Adolescent Patron Producers of The Library Experience (APPLE) and share your thoughts and opinions. Loveland Public Library, 300 N. Adams Ave., LV. 3:15-4pm. 970-9622665 or www.lovelandpubliclibrary.org.

Paws to Read Dogs will curl up on the floor to listen to anyone who would like to read to them. Farr Regional Library, High Plains Library District, 1939 61st Ave., GR. 6:30-7:30pm. 970-506-8500 or www. mylibrary.us.

Lego Club Windsor-Severance Library, Clearview Library District, 720 3rd St., Windsor. 3:30-4:30pm. 970-686-5603 or www. clearviewlibrary.org.

Friday, May 23 Ballet in the Round: Cinderella Harmony Library, 4616 S. Shields St., FC. 7-8pm. 970-221-6740 or www. PoudreLibraries.org.

Read & Seed: Marigolds Story time plus an educational and fun hands-on activity. The Gardens on Spring Creek, 2145 Centre Ave., FC. 10-10:45am & 11-11:45am. 970-416-2486 or www. fcgov.com/gardens.

Saturday, May 24 Emotions in Motion Presented by Dance Dynamics. Union Colony Civic Center, 701 10th Ave., GR. 6pm. 970-356-5000 or www.ucstars.com.

Wednesday, May 21 Bright Beginnings for Infants This class empowers parents with knowledge and parenting tools to create a bright beginning for their child. Poudre Valley Hospital, 1025 Garfield St., Suite A, FC. 10-11am. 970-495-7528 or www.pvhs.org. Lego Club Windsor-Severance Library, Clearview Library District, 720 3rd St., Windsor. 3:30-4:30pm. 970-686-5603 or www. clearviewlibrary.org. Full S.T.E.A.M. Ahead An hour filled with fun science experiments and art activities for students in grades 1-5. Lincoln Park Library, 919 7th St., GR. 4-5pm. 970-356-6775 or www.greeleydowntown.com. Catalyst: A Science Club for Kids Centennial Park Library, High Plains Library District, 2227 23rd Ave., GR. 4:30-5:30pm. 970-506-8622 or www. mylibrary.us.

Thursday, May 22 Terry Jester’s Animal Behavior Program Council Tree Library, 2733 Council Tree Ave., FC. 7-8:30pm. 970-221-6740 or www.PoudreLibraries.org. Monster Bookmarks Library, 300 N. Adams Ave., LV. 4pm. 970-962-2665 or www. lovelandpubliclibrary.org.

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Book Buzz: Graphic Novels Library, 300 N. Adams Ave., LV. 2pm. 970-962-2665 or www. lovelandpubliclibrary.org. Lego Club Windsor-Severance Library, Clearview Library District, 720 3rd St., Windsor. 3:30-4:30pm. 970-686-5603 or www. clearviewlibrary.org. Full S.T.E.A.M. Ahead An hour filled with fun science experiments and art activities for students in grades 1-5. Lincoln Park Library, 919 7th St., GR. 4-5pm. 970-356-6775 or www.greeleydowntown.com.

Drake Road Farmers’ Market 802 W. Drake, FC. 10am-1pm. 970-2185521 or www.drakeroadfarmersmarket.com

Thursday, May 29 Weekend at Bernie’s The Rialto Theatre Center, 228 E. 4th St., LV. 8pm. 970-962-2120 or www. ci.loveland.co.us.

Sunday, May 25 Animal Afternoon Harmony Library, 4616 S. Shields St., FC. 3-4pm. 970-221-6740 or www. PoudreLibraries.org.

Friday, May 30 History Comes Alive: Kenneth Graham Harmony Library, 4616 S. Shields St., FC. 7-9pm. 970-221-6740 or www. PoudreLibraries.org.

Fort Collins Farmers’ Market 215 E. Foothills Pkwy., FC. 11am-3pm. 970-495-4889 or www.fortcollinsfm.com

Board Games Windsor-Severance Library, Clearview Library District, 720 3rd St., Windsor. 3-4:30pm. 970-686-5603 or www. clearviewlibrary.org.

Tuesday, May 27 Read & Seed: Snakes Story time plus an educational and fun hands-on activity. The Gardens on Spring Creek, 2145 Centre Ave., FC. 10-10:45am & 11-11:45am. 970-416-2486 or www. fcgov.com/gardens.

Ron White: A Little Unprofessional Tour Budweiser Event Center, 5290 Arena Circle, LV. 8pm. 970-619-4100 or www. budweisereventcenter.com.

Loveland Farmers’ Market N. Garfield & Orchards (Hobby Lobby Parking Lot), LV. 11am-3pm. 970-4954889 or www.fortcollinsfm.com.

Michael Martin Murphey The Rialto Theatre Center, 228 E. 4th St., LV. 7:30pm. 970-962-2120 or www. ci.loveland.co.us.

Wednesday, May 28 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 twos. Poudre Valley Hospital, 1025 Garfield St., Suite A, FC. 10-11am. 970-495-7528 or www.pvhs.org.

Saturday, May 31 Lumina Presented by the Berthoud Dance Co. The Rialto Theatre Center, 228 E. 4th St., LV. 7:30pm. 970-962-2120 or www. ci.loveland.co.us. Drake Road Farmers’ Market 802 W. Drake, FC. 10am-1pm. 970-2185521 or www.drakeroadfarmersmarket.com

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time out

Welcoming “No!”

Growing up to be The Boss when it matters L e a Hans o n

ately when people ask me how my 3-year-old daughter is doing, I tell them she’s at a fun age. Until a few months ago, I found the “fun age” response to be silly and cliché. But, I get it now. I tell them about her newly developed sassy attitude and the funny things she says. I also tell her about her recentlydeveloped affinity for the word “No.” And, I don’t even mind it. Sure, it’s sometimes very frustrating. Infuriating on the worst days. And there are a lot more time outs than there were a year ago. Yet, I think I can count on my two hands the number of times I’ve told her she can’t say “no.” You see, while she’s not THE boss, I want my daughter to know she’s still the boss of some things. And trust me, she’s making a list. She knows she’s the boss of how much food she has to eat at a meal (until her belly is full), she knows she’s the boss of Boo Boo (her favorite stuffed bear), and she knows she’s the boss of her body. We talk about her asking for what she wants with confidence even if she thinks the answer will be no. Never be afraid to ask! I guess I just think there are more important things at stake. I want her to learn to be polite and to choose her words thoughtfully more than I want her to be obedient. I want her to grow into a girl and woman who stands up for what she believes rather than one who compromises her values under pressure. I want her to have the confidence to create boundaries around her life rather than turning into a “yes woman” who becomes overwhelmed and anxious. As she becomes the boss of more and more things—and eventually the boss of other people—I don’t want her to be uncomfortable with 50

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that responsibility. I want her to learn that “no means no” under any and all circumstances so when it really matters, she’s got the gumption to say it and mean it. So right now that might look like refusing to greet someone or declining a play invitation from a new kid at the park. But later in her life the stakes will be undoubtedly higher. In

she’s a pretty polite little girl. But, even at 3 she’s able to make lots of decisions on her own and we try to allow her to do so when it’s appropriate. She wants to wear a dress with leggings and a cardigan and a skirt and a tutu? Looks silly to me, but whatever. She doesn’t want to ride the pony at The Farm even though we’ve waited forever and already paid? Annoying, but

her teen years she’ll be presented with opportunities to do illegal and wrong things. When she’s an adult she’ll be presented with ethical dilemmas in her place of work that may greatly affect others. She’ll be repeatedly presented with opportunities to compromise her values and I want her to learn to choose what’s right for her. I want her to be able to say “yes” and “no.” Both with confidence. Don’t get me wrong, she lives with rules and high expectations. And

sure. Even when she gets overly frustrated and talks back saying, “Don’t talk to me right now!” I challenge myself to respond with, “Okay, let me know when you’ve chosen to be in a better mood and can talk nicely.” Here’s the deal. She’s a girl and will eventually be a woman. And I hope she grows into a woman who is confident and emotionally strong. So, in order to help her become that person, I’m allowing her to say “No” more often.

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we are local. Clothes Pony & Dandelion Toys first opened their doors in 2003. A

family business, Clothes Pony is owned and operated by Becca and Jenny Bramhall. We spoke with them in April about the store, 11 years of business and the northern Colorado Economy.

Q Why did you open the store? A We’re sisters and have always loved working together on proj-

ects. Becca moved to Fort Collins in 2001 and asked “Where’s the local kids boutique?” There wasn’t one! We spent the next month chasing kids around local playgrounds to check their clothing labels for great brands. In October 2002 we went on our first buying trip, ordering clothes and storing them in Becca’s garage, because we did not have a store front yet. By March 2003, we were open!

Q What do you like best about owning your own business?

A We Love working together. We love watching kids

and families grow up in the store. Our very first customer, who was pregnant with her first child and needed a maternity outfit for her Baby Shower, still shops in the store with her three kids!

Q What do local stores offer? A We offer community! It’s what we were looking for and

what we have created. Treating our customer like beloved guests in our home is something national chains cannot offer. We literally make our buying decisions with our regular customers in mind.

Q How do you stay energized after 10 years in business? A We are always looking forward to meeting the next newly preg-

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nant mama, a brand new set of grandparents and, of course, the newest little baby in town! Witnessing the excitement of our regular customers when they see the beautiful or fun new products we have found never fails to delight us. And, of course, we are always changing the store around to keep everything fresh and interesting.

Q What would you like to see as N Colorado grows? A Fort Collins’ Historic Old Town continues to be a regional draw.

We love being in the heart of Old Town and want to help it keep its character and charm as it grows.

Q What advice would you offer someone thinking about a new business?

A Don’t open a “personal passion” store. Identify a need and try to fill it. Having enough business capital is also huge. Most importantly, “treat your customers like they’re royal guests” in your store!

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WE ARE LOCAL is a monthly feature highlighting local businesses in Northern Colorado.

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